OK, earlier in the year, I wrote that a good gambling tidbit would be taking the Patriots every time they were favored by 10 points or fewer.

The best team won the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl on Thursday night.

I spent a lot of yesterday wondering: What in the bleep was that, Gus? Seriously.

It sounds impossible.

On most holidays, we move quickly. This is not most holidays.

As we look back on the decade in college football, the face certainly is that of Nick Saban.

The Titans are soaring into the playoffs and the once-unimaginable task of winning in the 'ry' months does not seem as daunting right now.

I want to believe.

Why are we even having a College Football Playoff title game?

Friday mailbag with a defense of Eddie Murphy's all-time greatness, NFL picks, Baseball movie character starting lineup

Our NBA picks went 1-1 as the Warriors erupted in the second half to win by 12 as an 11-point underdog.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas as I write this, and it also looks like I will not be able to not stop by and have eggnog, cookies or anything else with all of you this year.

Merry Christmas, gang. I hope you had a blessed one, and let us all remember that the greatest gift all of us ever received was born on this day.

We can't close out another fast-moving calendar year without belated congratulations to three special and, yes, wise men whose ultra-productive longevity in area sports roles was recognized in significant ways since this school year began.

From the Ho-Ho-Ho Studios, high atop Whiskey Hill, let's be jolly.

My son's coach prays at athletic events.

When you have that much talent and you need the hapless Giants to beat the Eagles to get into the playoffs, you have failed.

It has to end this way, doesn't it?

The Frances B. Wyatt Center on Colville Street will be quieter and less entertaining than normal this Christmas Eve afternoon.

We got 64 entries this year in the Bowling for Bowls of Bowl Game Success (Bowler Optional). You guys are awesome.

OK, first the macro. I like the first signing day. Truly.

Hard to imagine the choice for these 20-somethings right now?

Drew Brees topped Peyton Manning's all-time mark with his 541st touchdown pass.