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FANTASY

Superbowl 52 analysis – Cobe Life Predictions

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The numbers don’t lie, or do they?

New England Patriots vs Philadelphia Eagles

If you were to strictly judge these two teams based on their total potential. The Philadelphia Eagles would win Superbowl 52 rather easily. The Patriots only surpass them in two categories, and one of them is debatable. Obviously Tom Brady is the superior Quarterback so the Pats have the edge there.

Advantage – Patriots

Rob Gronkowski would be considered a better Tight End than Zach Ertz by most. Although the actual numbers aren’t much different. They both caught 8 touchdowns during the regular season. Although Gronk has more receiving yards, Ertz has more receptions. I would argue that they are actually even when you evaluate them on paper. Still to keep things from falling into too much of a grey area. I will give the edge to the Patriots at Tight End.

Advantage – Patriots

Now here’s where things begin to get a little one sided. I’m going to begin at the line of attack and work outwards.
When comparing the two Offensive lines the average fan might assume that the group protecting Brady would be the stronger group. Well you would be wrong. One of the reasons why Nick Foles can step in and have immediate success is the strength of the Eagles offensive line. The Patriots have a very good offensive line as well, and are especially good at protecting their franchise Quarterback. They just aren’t as good at all aspects of the game.

Advantage – Eagles

When comparing the two Defensive lines it becomes far more obvious which team is better. Even the casual fan can see the dominance of the Eagles defensive line. They are numero uno against the run. In comparison the New England Patriots are ranked 31rst overall against the run. Sure they have shown an improvement in their last few games. The stats are a bit skewed though because they were playing from behind against teams that were content trying to run out the clock. When you really analyze the numbers though. There’s no team better than the Philadelphia Eagles at controlling the line of scrimmage.

Advantage – Eagles

When comparing the Linebacker units the official depth charts don’t really tell the full story. Injuries have reduced the overall strength of the Eagles group, and recent acquisition James Harrison has been utilized more than his third string ranking would suggest. If you look at which players are actually performing on the field. The unit that will be making more individual plays should be the New England Patriots. Sorry Steelers fans.

Advantage – Patriots

The Running Back comparison was a lot closer before the Eagles signed Jay Ajayi. Used correctly, and Ajayi could end up being the difference in this game. The Patriots are well aware of what LeGarrette Blount can do in short yardage or goal line situations. If it wasn’t for the amount of attention defences focus on Tom Brady. Their group of Running Backs wouldn’t have the space they require to get meaningful yards. There isn’t a top quality Running Back among them.

Advantage – Eagles

When comparing the cornerback units the first thing that stands out is the two former Bills Players that have made an immediate impact. Stephon Gilmore and Ronald Darby are a couple of ball hawks that can make plays. They both have capable corners opposite them. Based upon individual talent the edge would go to the Patriots. Although things aren’t so cut and dry when you analyze the schemes they usually employ. I’ll get to that later.

Advantage – Patriots

Testing those cornerbacks will be two of the more underrated Wide Receiver groups in football. Both of these teams place a premium on spreading the ball around, and utilize their Tight Ends, and Running Backs in the passing game more than most. As a result the actual reception, yards, and touchdown numbers for their Wide Receivers are relatively low. That’s not to say that they don’t play an important role though. Brandin Cooks might be the most talented Wide Receiver on the field on Sunday, but his fellow Patriots Wide Receivers leave a lot to be desired. The Eagles have a great group of Wide Receivers that would be a huge advantage in this category if Tom Brady didn’t make the Patriots WRs perform better than expected.

Advantage – Eagles

When comparing the Safety units it’s difficult to ignore scheme, but I will. If you are only looking at the statistics. Especially big play statistics both for, and against. The Eagles safeties led by Malcolm Jenkins is marginally better. I’m not saying that the New England Patriots are outclassed, because they aren’t. The stats are more a result of the complete Defence as a whole.

Advantage – Eagles

On paper vs on the field

So by my calculations the overall Advantage goes to the Eagles by a score of 5 to 4. That’s really that much of an advantage right? Especially when you could argue that Tom Brady should be worth an additional point. Thus making the two teams even. Well here’s why I believe that the Eagles should be seen as strong favourites to win Superbowl 52. The Eagles should control the line of scrimmage throughout the game. By doing so their superior Running Backs should be more productive than the Patriots group. This will force the Patriots to play a pass heavy offence. Having Tom Brady under center makes this an appealing option except when you factor in the Eagles Defensive scheme. The Eagles play a lot of Nickel defense allowing their Safeties to effectively become free Safeties. Brady makes a living off of reading defences, but when there are more zone defenders than receiving options it becomes a gamble. I expect the turnover advantage will be in the Philadelphia Eagles favour, and turnovers lead to Superbowl Championships.

I expect the Philadelphia Eagles to be leading at half-time like many of the Patriots opponents have. Unlike many of those opponents though, I expect the Philadelphia Eagles Offence to keep the pressure on so their Defence doesn’t have to try and win the game on their own.

Advantage – Philadelphia Eagles

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GOLF

Cobe Life’s 5 to watch – Waste Management Phoenix Open

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Matsuyama is just too obvious

Everyone and their pet dog is talking about how Matsuyama is the man to beat.  He’s gone back to back at the Waste Management Phoenix Open.  If he can win this year he will be the only other person to three-peat alongside the great Arnold Palmer.  Obviously he is one of the Players to watch.  Do I think he’ll three-peat?  He’ll no!  He’s not playing at an elite level right now.  He’ll compete, but winning is very unlikely.

True favourites

Rickie Fowler

Lets be honest here.  One of Matsuyama’s wins should really have been Rickie’s.  He imploded coming down the stretch, and eventually lost in a playoff.  The stadium feel is an advantage for Rickie.  He’s so popular among the fans that playing in front of any crowd is like having home field advantage.  Anyone playing alongside him is going to feel like the enemy.  Rickie feeds off the crowds energy and has a number of high finishes here to show for it.  It wouldn’t surprise me if the energy at TPC Scottsdale lifts him to a Championship.

Jon Rahm

Rahm has played some amazing golf recently to where he has moved up to second overall in the PGA rankings.  While the crowd will help Rickie feel like he’s playing in front of a home crowd.  Jon Rahm actually will be.  As a former Arizona State Sun Devil, Rahm will feel right at home at the Waste Management Phoenix Open.  You can be damn sure he’ll come out wearing some Sun Devils garb at some point.  Given his recent performance you can bet good money that the crowd at TPC Scottsdale will be pulling for their local boy to win.  Every Championship means something on the PGA tour, but I’m willing to wager that this one means a little bit more to Jon Rahm.

Potential Surprises

Keegan Bradley

Keegan Bradley comes into this event in great form, and has exactly the kind of game that suits TPC Scottsdale.  He’s impressively accurate with his long clubs, and can bomb it.  There’s a lot of risk/reward plays available at TPC Scottsdale.  Keegan Bradley has the accuracy to effectively minimize the risk, while enjoying the reward.  Given his recent play I would expect him to take a few more chances than usual, and capitalize.  Keegan Bradley has the game to flat out win this event, but I’m expecting a Top 15 finish.

Kevin Streelman

Another Player coming into the Waste Management Phoenix Open in excellent form is Kevin Streelman.  If it wasn’t for the quality of this particular field I would consider Streelman to be a favourite.  His Ball striking has been stellar, and he seems to be playing with a lot of confidence.  I don’t expect him to overpower the TPC Scottsdale course, but where others will take risks, and pay the price.  I expect Streelman to play a very smart, safe game that will keep him in contention.  I just don’t see him being able to turn it up a notch on Sunday against this field.  A top 20 finish isn’t out of the question though.

Interesting story

J.B. Holmes

After his four minutes and ten seconds of club deliberation last Sunday before electing to lay up.  In a situation where he needed an Eagle to make a playoff, and potentially win the tournament.   A significant enough pause during the round that some people believe may have broken Alexander Noren’s concentration, and ultimately cost him the Championship.  After a few days of being slammed on Twitter, and forced to answer for his actions by the Golf media.  How will J.B. Holmes bounce back at the Waste Management Phoenix Open?  This tournament is perfect for his long hitter game.  As evidenced by his two previous victories here.  He’s obviously playing well considering he was an Eagle away from making the playoff last week.  Really he should be considered one of the favourites, but how will the TPC Scottsdale crowd welcome him after last week’s shenanigans?  If you are looking for a sneaky good bet to make in DraftKings, J.B. Holmes might be your guy.

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FANTASY FISHING GAMING GOLF

In case you didn’t know – Winter Sucks!!!

I’m Canadian so I know

For those of you that don’t really experience winter as the cold, dark, snow and ice filled hell that Canadians know it to be.  Well lucky you.  You really don’t have a winter Season.  What you experience is more of an extended fall, or if you are truly blessed, a cool summer.  The Winters that I’ve experienced in my lifetime range from mild (below zero with light snow) to severe (an entire city frozen in ice without power).  It’s during this abhorrent time that I go from an active sports enthusiast to an out of shape couch commando.  I’ve wondered what kind of shape I would be in if I could just keep doing the things I love (golfing, fishing, walking the city) year round.  Of course there are the many winter sports that so many find enjoyable.  Obviously something terrible has had to have happened to each of them at some point in their lives.  Why else would they subject themselves to such torturous endeavours. Strapping two thin planks to your feet and sliding down a snowy hill.  Fast enough to make the -10 degree temps feel like-20. If you prefer one wide plank that’s available.  Maybe you prefer strapping blades to your feet so you can slide across ice instead.  Desperately working on keeping your balance well enough to keep your ankles from breaking.  You could always head far enough up North to mount a tobaggan equipped with a high powered engine and really freeze your ass solid.  As appealing as some of those activities may sound to some of you.  They sure as shit aren’t for me.

Indoor Sport

So what’s an athletic guy to do?  I’ve considered joining the red and white GoodLife Fitness gym bag carrying crowd.  Unfortunately I can’t enjoy working out.  Especially when I know that playing a sport achieves similar results.  I have a collapsed arch in my left foot so simply joining an indoor soccer, or basketball team is out of the question.  I could take up swimming, but I’d trust the toxicity levels in Lake Ontario more than a public pool.  I’ve considered many potential activities, but not one fit the bill.  Winter has got me totally euchred.  I spend most of my days  in an area not much larger than a squash court.  I still Golf. Got a quick 18 holes in after Morning Drive yesterday.  Of course that’s 18 Rounds on my single hole putting mat in my living room.  There are times during the year that I look at my PS4 and think what a waste of money.  Well my opinion changes rather quickly as soon as the first snowfall hits.  Hardly a day passes without one of my PS4 controllers requiring a recharge.  I had the unfortunate situation where a label came off one of my blu-rays inside my PS4.  I played digital downloads for a couple days, but missed playing Tom Clancy’s The Division way too much.  So after about a week I broke down, and proceeded to take my PS4 apart to clear the drive.  It wasn’t nearly as difficult as I expected it to be.  Less than an hour later I was back to playing The Division.  Winter can do that.  It can motivate you to try things, or buy things you wouldn’t normally.  This is the weekend before the Superbowl so my favourite spectator sport isn’t available either.  I find myself watching movies galore.  Now I love film so that isn’t necessarily a bad thing.  The problem is that I know I’m going to be spending so much time watching movies that I specifically select Trilogies or ongoing series.  I’ve watched the Bourne trilogy, the Millennium trilogy, the first six Star Wars films, the Hobbit trilogy, the Lord of the Rings trilogy, all of the Die Hard films, and I’m four films in to the Harry Potter series.  Can you see how this might be a problem.  Some of those movies I’ve seen so many times that I can quote every key line.  Not a single moment in any of those films surprises me anymore.  I find myself watching what’s going on in the background more.  Hoping to see something I might have missed the first 30 times I watched the movie.  Did you know that Michelle Monaghan was in the Bourne Supremacy?  I didn’t either until I noticed her as an FBI analyst at one of the terminals in the background.  That was the highlight of the film for me.

I’m in the dark here

Yes that was a Scent of a Woman quote, but it’s very relevant during Canadian winters.  If you leave for work before 8:00am, and return home after 5:00pm.  Then there’s a very good chance that you never experienced the light of day.  It was dark when you left, and dark when you returned.  I found myself yawning at 6:48pm last Thursday.  By accident last week my wife and I had dinner twice.  It got dark so early that we mistakenly had dinner at a little before 4:00pm.  By the time 8:00pm came we were hungry again, and realized that sleep might be impossible unless we ate again.

A sudden reprieve

Suddenly without any warning the temperature has been rising the last two days.  It actually got up to +8 degrees today.  Opportunity is knocking, and provided the temperature holds for one more day.  I am going to grab my clubs and make my way out to the Range to do what winter denies me.  Get outside, get some enjoyable exercise, and see the light of day.  If it doesn’t hold, and the winter weather forces me back indoors.  Well I only have to wait a couple more months before the sun begins to shine again.  Until then I have every Marvel movie to watch in chronological order.

Categories
GOLF

Why the 2018 Farmers Insurance Open has piqued my interest.

The Tiger Woods Factor

I don’t write many blogs about PGA tour events.  In this case I will make an exception though.  Tiger Woods will be playing his first full field event, and it won’t be at some Player friendly course in the Bahamas.  This is the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines.  A course that’s held the U.S. Open.  It won’t have the strongest field, but there will be plenty of talent on display.

The field includes:
-PGA tour Champion Xander Schauffele
-The Players Champion Si Woo Kim
-Last year’s winner and currently world       number 2 Jon Rahm
-Other Top 10 World ranking players in   the field including Rickie Fowler, Hideki   Matsuyama, and Justin Rose.

As well as many other notable PGA tour mainstays.

What’s required from Woods

Winning this event will require some great skill off the Tee because it’s a long course.  It will also require some impressive Ball striking because you don’t want to be in the long grass at Torrey Pines.

Of course the first thing everyone wants to know is how well will Tiger do?  Well I actually have two answers for that question.  Sounds like I’m hedging my bets but really I’m not, and here’s why.  I believe that if Tiger Woods treats this event as just a stepping stone towards readying himself for future events then he will make the cut, and play some attractive golf.  Now if he enters this event with the desire to finish in the Top 10.  I don’t think things will go as smoothly for him.  Torrey Pines will punish Players who miss Fairways, or Greens when trying to push the limits in order to stay close to the leaders.  Tiger has shown that his scrambling is particularly weak, and his misses off the Tee are unpredictable.  If he just focuses on playing clean mistake free golf he’ll find himself in the middle of the pack, but if he pushes it he could potentially put up a number of double or even triple bogeys, and miss the cut.

Players to watch

There are a few Players of particular interest to me at this event.  Five of which I have already discussed in my Cobe Life 2018 Farmers Insurance Open Quick picks on YouTube.  Those five Players should be of particular interest to the FanDuel and DraftKings crowd.

https://youtu.be/XKiTWrpua_A

The next group of Players are interesting to me for different reasons.
JASON DAY
Former World #1 Jason Day had a down year last year.  Health and Family issues contributed to an uncommon lack of focus for Jason Day in 2017.  There is no disputing his talent, and Torrey Pines is the perfect course to gauge where his game is at.

BRANDT SNEDEKER
Another Player coming back from injury with the additional pressure of trying to make a return to the Masters.  Snedeker wouldn’t appear to have the kind of game that Torrey Pines requires, but he has won here twice before.  While everyone else is trying to bomb drives off the Tee.  Sneds will methodically work his way around the course.  If his Putter is on watch out!

CHESSON HADLEY
The 2017 Web.com tour Champion will have the opportunity to showcase his potential in this high quality field.  The Web.com tour has proven to be an excellent preparatory tour for the PGA with past Champions, and qualifiers finding early success when playing on the PGA tour.  I would expect Chesson Hadley to really make a strong showing at Torrey Pines.

ADAM HADWIN
I’m going to be watching Adam Hadwin at every event he enters this year for as long as he remains competitive.  Last year his 59 at the CareerBuilder Challenge kick-started what would become an excellent Season.  Last week his T3 at this year’s CareerBuilder Challenge had that same feeling.  If so, you should expect a number of high finishes to come Hadwin’s way.

ALEXANDER NOREN
Most people are still wondering if there should have been a Presidents Cup tournament last year.  The talent was so lopsided in the Americans favour the outcome was practically predetermined.  There’s already talk of how will the Europeans at this year’s Ryder Cup compete?  Look I think the Americans have the advantage, but don’t think for a second that they will win it easily.  Players that aren’t that well known on this side of the pond like Noren will put up a considerable fight.  If you would like to get a sneak peek of what’s to come.  Watch what Noren is capable of at Torrey Pines.  While you are at it check out Francesco Molinari as well.

Categories
FANTASY Uncategorized

Cobe Life 2018 NFL Playoff Predictions – AFC & NFC Championships

Do what we perceive is the actual truth?

There’s been much debate about the two Championship games on Sunday.  Are the favourites (according to Vegas odds) actually worthy of being favourites?  Is Nick Foles going to be the undoing of what might have been a truly dominant Season?  Does the Jacksonville Jaguars Defensive line have what it takes to rattle Tom Brady?  Are the Patriots as dominant as people think, or have they just made the most of an easy schedule?  Some of these questions will be answered, and some might still be on our minds come Superbowl.  For what it’s worth, I’ll do my best to answer them now.  Using the knowledge, understanding, and research I’ve done on the subject.  Of course a little bit of luck would also be welcome.  Well here goes!

David versus Goliath

The AFC Championship

You could have probably asked 100 football analysts at the beginning of this Season, who would be playing for the AFC Championship?  Not one of them would have predicted it would be the New England Patriots hosting the Jacksonville Jaguars.  Most, myself included would have probably predicted that the New England Patriots would be playing the Pittsburgh Steelers.  The safe pick to win would have been the New England Patriots.  Well they still are the safe pick.  As sexy a pick as the Jacksonville Jaguars are.  It would take some serious stones to pick them.  It’s not like they are completely outmatched.  They definitely have the better Defence.  I mean it isn’t even close.  Most of the Patriots Defenders wouldn’t get much playing time if they were with the Jacksonville Jaguars.  The Jaguars star Running Back Leonard Fournette is by far the most talented RB that will be on the field in that game.  He’s a beast of a Runner, capable of tiring out a Defensive line with his bruising style.  If Jacksonville can limit New England’s effectiveness with a strong Defence, and time sapping Running game then they can win.  Seems like a smart strategy to me.  I remember that particular strategy working before actually.  There was something very different about the teams that employed that strategy before.  They weren’t led by the most unpredictable signal caller in the NFL, Blake Bortles.  Blake Bortles who barely beat the Buffalo Bills.  Blake Bortles who went the distance with two time Superbowl Champion Ben Roethlisberger, and came out on top.  Who is this guy?  Which version of Blake Bortles will show up on Sunday?  If you are considering betting on this game?  Just don’t!  Bortles could throw a wrench into whatever you think you know.  Unfortunately for me I have to make a prediction.  It comes with the territory I’m afraid.  I’d like to pick the Jacksonville Jaguars.  I find them to be a far more exciting team to watch actually.  I enjoy high scoring games, but I prefer hard hitting defensive wars.  The problem is that I can’t pick them because I expect the New England Patriots to have a plan in place to give Blake Bortles fits.  The Jaguars will keep this game within reach though.

New England Patriots by 6

Will the real NFC favourite please stand up?

The NFC Championship

I’m beginning to think that the Philadelphia Eagles are thoroughly enjoying being labeled as underdogs.  I have always believed that being perceived as an underdog was a bonus.  The team that is expected to win has seemingly more to lose.  So even though Philadelphia is playing at home.  Being labeled as the underdog has placed additional pressure on the visiting Minnesota Vikings to display early dominance.  Not an easy task considering how well the Eagles have played all Season long.  Even though there are a number of star Players on the Offensive side of the ball for both teams.  This game is actually about Defence.  There are a few specific Players to watch for though.  Pay close attention to Zach Ertz, Nelson Agholor, Adam Thielen, and Jerick McKinnon.  Both Quarterbacks will have to deal with constant pressure this game.  I wouldn’t be surprised if one of them misses a snap or two after taking a hard hit.  Emotions will be high in this one, and I do expect it to be a bit choppy.  Key penalties will play a role in who wins this one.  The Eagles playing in front of a home crowd looking to finally earn the respect they deserve, and the Vikings one win away from playing in a Superbowl in their home stadium.  Another game I just don’t want to make a prediction for, but I must.  I’m going with the more dominant Defence in this one.

Minnesota Vikings by 3

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GAMING Uncategorized

Tom Clancy’s The Division revisited – The Gamer in me GL-24

A blessing to be bored

I keep waiting for a new PS4 game to grab my attention and really wow me. For the last few months nothing really has. So today I found myself reaching into the Blu-ray cabinet for an old favourite, Tom Clancy’s The Division. Tell you what, I am damn glad I did. If you haven’t read some of my earlier posts. You might be unaware of the primary reason I waited in line one very early morning to purchase my PS4 on release day. I pre-ordered my PS4 from Futureshop, and although I was practically guaranteed my console provided I arrived before noon. The two games I would get to take home with me weren’t guaranteed. Each game was subject to availability, and the sole reason I wanted a PS4 on day one was to play Tom Clancy’s The Division. Well what I would soon find out is that without any prior warning a number of the day one releases had been delayed. Sony was worried that the significant number of games that had been promised on day one were reduced enough to scare people away from making a purchase. If you ask me they were probably right. I for one wouldn’t have pre-ordered a PS4 if I knew that my first two games would be Need for Speed Rivals and Injustice Gods among us. A couple of truly shitty games in my opinion. I spent the next three months after playing my favourite PS3 games. What made matters worse was the game I truly wanted got delayed multiple times over a couple years.

Would my wish be answered?

When I finally got to play Tom Clancy’s The Division my initial interest and expectations were thankfully met. It remains to this day one of the best designed games I’ve ever played. Even the Dark zone which has had it’s fair share of issues, and balance problems couldn’t ruin it for me because the primary campaign is totally playable and fantastic without it. It has the perfect balance of Story, realism, and arcade elements to make it feel challenging, but remain fun. Graphically it’s stunning. Many open world campaign shooters tend to feel monochromatic. Although the colours are subtle in The Division, they are still very present. The game rewards Players of a high arcade style skill level, but is equally playable by Players that take a more realistic tactical approach. Generally I’m not a big fan of first person or third person shooters. I find them too unrealistic, or chaotic in most cases. Successful franchises like Halo, or Battlefield are probably why so many game designers have chosen to go that way. Tom Clancy’s The Division has moments of intense action which can feel a little chaotic at times, but in doing so never feels unrealistic. The intense, and occasionally over the top sequences fit the story, and serve as a reminder that not all in this world is totally familiar.

If it isn’t obviously apparent to you by now, I’ll just say that I was hooked. I played it as much as I could for a couple months and completed the campaign. Then like most games I’ve truly enjoyed it found it’s way into my Blu-ray cabinet. Expansions were released, but I was already on to something else. Quite a few of my online friends I played The Division with, had already moved on to playing Destiny. Although a marquee game in it’s own right. Destiny was a game that I made a conscious decision to avoid because it seemed to require too much of a time commitment. I prefer solitary games or games that I can enjoy online with 1-3 friends for a few hours every now and then. Destiny just doesn’t fit what I’m looking for out of a game. Although the Division does require groups to complete some of the missions. The majority of the game can be played by yourself, and with a couple friends or strangers online when need be.

HOW IT FEELS TO REVISIT THE GAME.

There have been a number of updates since the game was originally released.  They have managed to improve an already excellent game.  Additional gameplay modes, new equipment to be found, and additional areas to explore.  Honestly they didn’t have to change a thing for me, but the additions are totally welcome.  I had already started a second campaign months ago so I started out a little buffed already.  What I wasn’t ready for was how realistic the recoil system was, and how engaging and smart the AI can be.  In other words I was rusty and ready to have my ass handed to me.  Oh and I definitely did.  Should have changed my name to respawn.  A few deaths later, and I was back to kicking gang banger ass.  It feels good to be back.

If you haven’t played Tom Clancy’s The Division, well now is a great time to give it a try.  If you own it like me but haven’t tried it since the most recent updates.  I suggest you load it up, and give it a go.  I promise you that you won’t be disappointed.

 

Categories
GOLF

How important is Distance – Beginner’s guide to Golf

The quest to hit it long

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If you were like me in the beginning then Distance was the most important thing to you. It seemed like by gaining Distance your game would dramatically improve. Everyone else seemed to hit the ball a mile with relative ease. While you were swinging with all your might, and only carrying your 7 Iron 100 yards.

I remember thinking if I could only transfer my natural strength into my swing I’d be able to carry my 7 Iron at least 140 yards. Then I’d finally have an easier time making par on those long Par 4s. That was 3 years ago. Well now I can carry my 7 Iron 140 yards, and I still don’t have an easy time making par on those long Par 4s. What I’ve learned is that hitting it long doesn’t necessarily equal a better score.

Consistency over length

Distance isn’t really about how far you can hit a golf ball. It’s about how accurately you can hit a ball a particular distance. Then once you have your Distance control dialed in. You need to assemble a bag of clubs that allow you to leave a small enough gap from club to club to navigate your way through 18 holes on a Golf course. Understanding how to properly assemble a set with proper gapping is easier than you might think. As a Beginner I would suggest assembling a set that includes the Sand Wedge as your most lofted Iron, and a 3 Wood as your least lofted club. Once you know how far you hit your 3 Wood, and Sand Wedge. Take the difference in yardage between the two and divide it by 8. The number you arrive at will determine the average yardage between each club you should try to have. If the number is below 11. I would suggest reducing the number of clubs in your set until the gaps are at least 10 yards or more. As an example: lets say you are able to hit your Sand Wedge 90 yards but you only hit your 3 Wood 175 yards. The difference between the two is only 85 yards. Divide that by 8 and your gap average would be 10.62. In this case I would reduce the number of clubs you should purchase between the Sand Wedge and 3 Wood down to 7. This would provide you with an average gapping of just over 12 yards. Trust me when I tell you that as a Beginner you will make poor contact more often than not. It wouldn’t be uncommon for you to chunk shots, and come up ten yards short, or catch shots thin and end up hitting them 10 yards longer. At least with an average gapping of 12 yards you shouldn’t be over a club off the distance with most shots.

Something you should be aware of in that example is that I didn’t bother to mention how far you should expect to hit each club. It’s been my experience that the average male golfer only needs to be able to hit at least one club in their bag at least 200 yards to successfully play practically any course from the Whites. If that happens to be your Driver that’s fine. For me it’s my 3 Wood. Until you are able to successfully hit 200 yards with at least one club on a regular basis I would stick to short courses. That one club over 200 is the only case where total Distance really matters.

Disregard my advice if you bomb it accurately!

Of course there are exceptions to the rule. Dustin Johnson’s recent 433 yard drive to within one foot of the hole on a Par 4 is a great example. Ridiculous Distance can dramatically effect your score. It does come with a warning though. The further you can hit it, the worse a. miss hit will be. Sure bombing the ball can put you in advantageous positions. Just hit one of those monster drives a little off line and you will be reaching into your bag for another ball pretty quick. If given the choice between risky massive Distance, and controlled average Distance. I’d choose controlled average Distance every time.

OF COURSE I’M NOT DUSTIN JOHNSON!

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FANTASY Uncategorized

Cobe Life 2018 NFL Playoff Predictions Divisional Round

 

Saturday’s Games

Atlanta Falcons at Philadelphia Eagles

Are the Eagles flavoured in this one?  I haven’t actually checked the betting line.  Considering their Season they probably are, but in my opinion they shouldn’t be.  As much as I like Nick Foles, he doesn’t run this offence as effectively as Carson Wentz.  The Eagles have a tonne of weapons at their disposal, but they all suffer a slight decrease in value with Foles under center.  Their Running game is formidable.  The tandem of Jay Ajayi and LeGarrette Blount can pound the rock.  A heavy dose of those two might be the Eagles best path to victory.  The only problem is that the Atlanta Falcons have a lot of speed on Defence.  So don’t expect Blount or Ajayi to break for any long runs.  If the Eagles win this game I would expect the  MVP to be Zach Ertz.  The Atlanta Falcons Defence can at times be a little soft across the middle. If Philadelphia has some success running the ball early.  The Falcons may pull a linebacker up into the box, opening up enough space for a top Tight End like Ertz to exploit the space.  Ertz matches up well against any Linebacker or Safety in single coverage so he could have a huge game.

All that being said, the Atlanta Falcons should really be licking their chops heading into Philadelphia.  At no time last week did they look like they might lose to the Rams.  Matty Ice was definitely in playoff form, and Julio Jones finally found the end zone.  For those of you who are paying attention I predicted a big game from Jones last week.  Losing the way they did in the Superbowl last year.  A Superbowl in which Julio Jones wasn’t targeted nearly enough, and he still had one of the best catches in Superbowl history.  The Falcons have learned their lesson, and leaned on their stars last week.  Well I would expect more of the same in this game.  Ryan, Jones, and Freeman will be expected to earn their pay on Saturday, and I don’t see why they won’t.  The Eagles don’t have a total wrecking ball like Aaron Donald to give Matt Ryan fits.  Fletcher Cox is a handful but he doesn’t possess the every down dominance of Donald.  Matt Ryan should have even more time to go through his progressions, and find the open man.  I expect this to be a very up and down game, but I expect Matt Ryan to be the better clutch performer down the stretch.

Atlanta Falcons by 4

Tennessee Titans at New England Patriots

I have to give credit where credit is due.  The Tennessee Titans beat a Kansas City Chiefs team that was packed full of talent, in their house, and showed late season form.  I didn’t give them a chance to win.  I don’t think anyone except hardcore Titans fans did.  Well congratulations Tennessee!  Enjoy the victory because it was your last.  Lets be honest here.  They will be traveling to Foxborough heavily outmatched.  Once again the New England Patriots have parlayed winning the weakest division in football being the top seed in the AFC, and “earning” themselves the easiest path to the Superbowl.  The Patriots key to victory is simple.  Protect Tom Brady so that he can effectively deliver the ball.  That’s been their plan all Season long.  They have an amazing offensive line, and to make matters worse for opposing teams utilize their Running Backs as quick toss receivers better than any other team.  That means that you have very little time to get to Tom Brady before he becomes an ineligible target.  It’s so frustrating for opposing Defensive Ends, and Linebackers that Brady draws a lot of roughing the passer penalties for late hits.  Now given all that can the Tennessee Titans get to Brady?  Shit no!  If you actually think that they can you’re deluded, or from Tennessee.  This game could end up being so lopsided that I might tune out at half-time.  Although there could be some garbage time heroics.

New England Patriots by 13

Sunday’s Games

Jacksonville Jaguars at Pittsburgh Steelers

You can almost taste the anticipation.  The Jacksonville Jaguars scrambled their way to their first playoff win in what feels like forever last week.  That earned them a trip to Pittsburgh home of the terrible towel to face a team they embarrassed earlier this Season.  You don’t need to be a fan of either team to know that they intercepted Ben Roethlisberger five times (two for touchdowns) the last time they played.  People were questioning whether Roethlisberger should consider retirement after that beating.  Well he didn’t retire, and if not for another controversial call that went the Patriots way again.  The Steelers would be playing the lowly Titans this week instead.  Obviously the Steelers are favoured, and despite what happened earlier in the Season they should be.  For the Steelers to win this game they only need to limit their mistakes.  So I expect a heavy dose of Le’Veon Bell in this game.  Allowing Ben Roethlisberger to get the ball out of his hands quickly with minimal risk.  Don’t count Antonio Brown out of this game though.  I expect that he will be recovered enough to make a serious impact.  People forget that he isn’t just a deep threat. He gains a lot of his yards after the catch on short passes.  Juju Smith Schuster has the ability to gain chunks of yards after the catch as well.  It’s this combination of quick strike weapons that should keep the Jacksonville Jaguars Defence in check.  Don’t fool yourself though. Big Ben will get sacked. Pittsburgh will be forced into a turnover or two.  This game will be a war.  Jacksonville could have the right tools to get the upset.  Except they don’t!  Bortles threw for a grand total of 87 yards against the Buffalo Bills last week.  That kind of production just won’t do against the high powered Steelers.

Pittsburgh Steelers by 9

New Orleans Saints at Minnesota Vikings

This could very well be the game of the week.  These two teams are pretty evenly  matched on paper.   Of course I’d give the nod to Drew Brees over Case Keenum.  I mean who wouldn’t?  Of course I’d give the advantage to the Vikings Defence over the Saints.  Nobody should think otherwise.  If you are a fan of the Running Back position you are in for a fantastic show.  Mark Ingram, Alvin Kamara, Latavius Murray, and Jerick McKinnon will all have opportunities to showcase their talents in this one.  If I had to pick just one as the Running Back to watch I’d go with Alvin Kamara.  The Vikings are so strong on the Defensive line that I expect Kamara to find the most success receiving passes out of the backfield.  Of all the games this weekend this game has the highest scoring potential because it’s being played in a dome.  The kickers will definitely play a role in deciding who wins, and expect a few deep passes to find their targets.  Of all the games I found this one to be the most difficult to predict.  In that case I have to give the advantage to the home team.

Minnesota Vikings by 3

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Categories
GAMING Uncategorized

Cellphone Gaming – The Gamer in me GL-23

It might surprise you to know…

… that some of the most popular games people play are on their cellphones.  That’s right, move over Microsoft, sorry about your luck Sony, and not so fast Nintendo.  The masses are downloading the newest game on Android or iOS right now.  Convenience over quality is where the market seems to be going.  Instead of playing photorealistic games like Gran Turismo, or The Division.  People are getting hooked on simplistic games like Candy Crush, or Stack Jump.

What’s fueling the change?

I’m sure there are a number of factors, but what I believe has the greatest influence on the switch to cellular games are the devices themselves.  Sure they’ve improved, but its not like their processing power rivals a PS4, or Xbox one.  It’s our increasing reliance upon being constantly connected to each and every person we know that’s pushed the consoles to the wayside.  While playing a game on your cellphone you can still receive all the relevant notifications of each and every application you’ve downloaded.  Most games can be easily paused, or automatically pause for you when a call, text, Facebook message, or recent Post alert comes in.  It’s our need to know right now that prevents us from choosing to do anything that takes our attention away from our cellphones for any considerable length of time.  Most video games require a significant time investment.  Some even require you wear a headset to stay in contact with other players during multiplayer gameplay.  I wonder how many Destiny raids were ruined because something started trending on Twitter, or somebody just got tagged in something on Instagram.  Before anyone chooses to sit down on the couch and start up their game system.  They have to consciously decide to close themselves off from their cellular world to do so.  I’m willing to bet if you banned the average gamer from using their cellphone for a weekend.  They would play their console game system at least twice as much that weekend.  Honestly they would probably be happier for it.  Cellphone Games can be fun, but are they nearly as satisfying as Console Games?

Hell to the no!

Lets not kid ourselves here.  For almost any Gamer, defeating a high level boss, taking your virtual franchise to the Championship, or beating all of your friends in a classic fight sim is far more satisfying than crushing some candy.

Do yourself a favour and disconnect from your cellular world every now and then.  Fire up that overpowered console, and load up your favourite game.  Keep playing until your thumbs are raw from it.  Trust me when I tell you that you will be grinning from ear to ear when you are done.

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Categories
GOLF

Ongoing Review Format – Beginner’s Guide to Golf

Beginner’s Guide to Golf

Ongoing Review Format : learn what products will actually do for your game.

Something my Subscribers can look forward to in 2018 is ongoing reviews of featured products. Instead of spending a few hours in a Simulator or at the Range testing a new product. I will select a few key products that I believe can potentially benefit a High handicapper or total Beginner and conduct an ongoing review all year. I will have a weekly update Post here on my Blog, and a weekly Video with all or some of the featured products on my YouTube Channel Cobe Life.


This Ongoing Review format will allow me to provide you with my first impressions, product performance, learning curve, real world usefulness, durability issues, and final recommendations. I will keep detailed on course statistics that are generated during actual Rounds of Golf. Unlike most reviews that might specifically drop balls at specific distances on a course to evaluate swings with a specific club. The Ongoing Review format will allow me the freedom to assess a club’s effectiveness in the actual moment it’s required with real consequences on the line. What good is a high spinning Wedge if you find it difficult to hit squarely out of a tight lie? Situations like that are impossible to replicate in a Simulator, or even at a practice facility. What I’m hoping to be able to actually provide you with is the knowledge of what products you should feel confident with. When you need to make that one shot. How will the products that I’ve selected benefit you in that moment? Will it take a few trips to the Range or Practice area to get comfortable, or can almost anyone of any skill level feel confident after an hour of practice? That’s something I would have liked to have known before buying my first 3 Wood. As much as I always suggest that you test swing any clubs that you are considering purchasing. What a Simulator may show you after a few swings isn’t necessarily a fair representation of what you are actually capable of. If you had a few days to get familiar with the weight and balance of a new Driver for instance. It may surprise you how much better you can hit it. Quite often Beginner’s buy what is most similar to what they already have. Although this generally reduces the learning curve. It can also prevent them from progressing. My Ongoing Review format will hopefully demonstrate that some products if given the right amount of practice to master their uses can have an even greater affect on your Golf game.

Products I will be conducting Ongoing Reviews of include:
GPS Rangefinder
Driver
3 Wood
Hybrid
Irons
Wedges
Two types of Balls (Distance and Spin)

If there is a particular product that you are interested in seeing me provide an Ongoing Review for please let me know in the comments. Keep in mind that the products I eventually choose will be geared towards Beginners. I’m not going to be selecting Player’s Blades, or Pro V1 Balls.

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Potential Sponsors

I would like to encourage interested equipment manufacturers that would like to see some of their products featured in the Cobe Life Ongoing Reviews to contact me through my Contact Us page.  As much as I would enjoy testing any of your new equipment releases.  The Ongoing Reviews are strictly for products in the Game Improvement category.