Full List of Super Bowl 50 Prop Bets

DID YOU KNOW…

That the first official prop bet was whether or not William “The Refrigerator” Perry would would score a touchdown in Super Bowl XX?

Well…

William Perry TD

He did.

The “Prop Bets” have become an awesome tradition each year for both the heavy and light gamblers. It’s fun betting on how long the anthem will be sung and what color the Gatorade being poured will be. Then you account the circumstances surrounding star players, storylines, celebrities and halftime show performers, and you have yourself a fun Super Bowl party game.

So…

Y’all ready for this? 

The full list of prop bets from Bovada!

ENTERTAINMENT ODDS AND ENDS

Will Peyton Manning announce his retirement in the postgame interview?

Yes      +500  (5/1)

No        -1000 (1/10)

(Note: Must be on live broadcast.)

Will Peyton Manning be seen crying at any point during the entire broadcast?

Yes      +600  (6/1)

No        -1200 (1/12)

(Note: Live pictures only, must clearly see a tear.)

How many times will “dab” or “dabbing” be said by the announcers during the broadcast?

Over     2          (EVEN, 1/1)      

Under   2          (-140, 5/7)        

(Note: From kickoff to final whistle, halftime does not count.)

How many times will Cam Newton do the Open Shirt Superman motion during the game?

Over     2.5        (EVEN, 1/1)      

Under   2.5        (-140, 5/7)        

(Note: From kickoff to final whistle, halftime does not count.)

If Steph Curry is shown on TV during the broadcast what will he be wearing?

Personalized Carolina Steph Curry Jersey           1/1

No Jersey                         2/1

Cam Newton Jersey                         3/1

Any Other Carolina Jersey                         5/1

Will Mike Carey be wrong about a challenge?

Yes      +110 (11/10)

No        -150 (2/3)

(Note: He must be consulted on live broadcast and must clearly take a stance on his position. If not consulted wagers will be No Action.)

Will there be an earthquake during the game?

Yes      10/1

(Note: Announcer must indicate there was during live broadcast from kickoff until final whistle.)

Will the Panthers player who scores their first TD give the football to a boy or girl?

Boy      -200 (1/2)

Girl       +150 (3/2)

How many times will the Golden Gate Bridge be shown during the broadcast?

Over     0.5        -300 (1/3)

Under   0.5        +200 (2/1)

(Note: From kickoff to final whistle, halftime does not count.)

How many times will “John Fox” be said during the broadcast?

Over     1          (-140, 5/7)

Under   1          (EVEN, 1/1)

(Note: From kickoff to final whistle, halftime does not count.)

How many times will Archie Manning be shown on TV during the broadcast?

Over     1.5        EVEN (1/1)

Under   1.5        -140    (5/7)

(Note: From kickoff to final whistle, halftime does not count.)

How many times will John Elway be shown on TV during broadcast?

Over     2.5        EVEN (1/1)

Under   2.5        -140    (5/7)

(Note: From kickoff to final whistle, halftime does not count.)

Will the announcers mention that Kubiak was Elway’s backup during the broadcast?

Yes      +120 (6/5)

No        -160 (5/8)

(Note: From kickoff to final whistle, halftime does not count.)

What color will the liquid be that is poured on the winning coach?

Orange             5/4

Blue                 3/1

Clear                4/1

Yellow              4/1

Red                   6/1

Green               10/1

Purple              10/1

Who will the Super Bowl MVP mention first?

God                            2/1

Team                         2/1

City/Fans                   6/1

Coach                         15/2

Family                        15/1

Does not Mention Anyone above           9/4

Which song will Coldplay play first during the halftime show?

Adventure of a Lifetime           2/1

Fix You                                      7/2

A Sky Full of Stars                    9/2

Viva la Vida                               5/1

Clocks                                       15/2

Speed of Sound                        9/1

Head Full of Dreams                10/1

Paradise                                    10/1

What color will Beyonce’s footwear be when she comes on stage for the halftime show?

Black                              3/2

Gold/Brown                   5/2

White                             11/4

Silver/Grey                    19/4

Any Other Color             7/1

(Note: Predominant color will be graded winner.)

Will “Left Shark” make an appearance on stage during the Super Bowl halftime show?

Yes                  15/1

How many million viewers will Super Bowl 50 have?

Over/Under                   117 million

What will the Nielsen Rating be for Super Bowl 50?

Over/Under                   48.5

Which region will have a higher Nielsen Rating?

Denver              -140    (5/7)

Charlotte           EVEN  (1/1)

How many wings will Buffalo Wild Wings sell on Super Bowl Day?

Over/Under                   12 million

TEAM/GAME PROPS

Coin Toss

Heads               -105 (20/21)

Tails                 -105 (20/21)

Will the referee redo the coin toss?

Yes                  20/1

Will the team that chooses heads or tails in the coin toss be correct?

Yes                  -105 (20/21)

No                    -105 (20/21)

Team to win the coin toss

Carolina Panthers          -105 (20/21)

Denver Broncos              -105 (20/21)

Will the team that wins the coin toss win the game?

Yes                  -105 (20/21)

No                   -105 (20/21)

Team to score first in the game

Carolina Panthers          -150 (2/3)

Denver Broncos              +120 (6/5)

Will the team that scores first win the game?

Yes                  -160 (5/8)

No                    +130 (13/10)

Total Team Points – Carolina Panthers

Over/Under                   24½     

Total Team Points – Carolina Panthers – First Half

Over/Under                   11½       

Total Team Points – Denver Broncos

Over/Under                   20

Total Team Points – Denver Broncos – First Half

Over/Under                   9½ 

Will there be a score in the first 7m30s of the 1st quarter?

Yes                   -160 (5/8)

No                    +130 (13/10)

Will there be a score in the first 1m30s of the 1st quarter?

Yes                  +1000 (10/1)

No                    -2500 (1/25)

Which will be the highest scoring quarter?

1st Quarter                     5/1

2nd Quarter                   8/5

3rd Quarter                    9/2

4th Quarter                    5/2

Will either team score 3 unanswered times in the game?

Yes                  -220 (5/11)

No                    +175 (7/4)

Will there be a score in the final 2 minutes of the 1st half?

Yes                  -280 (5/14)       

No                    +220 (11/5)

Longest touchdown yardage in the game

Over/Under                   44½

Will there be a penalty for excessive celebration?

Yes      +250      (5/2)

No        -400     (1/4)

Will either backup QB take a snap in the game?

Yes       +200 (2/1)

No        -300 (1/3)

Total successful field goals

Over/Under                   3½

Longest successful field goal in the game

Over/Under                   44.5 Yards

Will there be a missed extra point?

Yes      +325 (13/4)

No        -450 (2/9)

Total QB sacks (Both teams combined)

Over/Under                   5½

Will a special teams or defensive TD be scored?

Yes      +150 (3/2)

No        -180 (5/9)

Will the Panthers rush for a 100 Yards or more for a 32nd straight game?

Yes      -500 (1/5)

No        +300 (3/1)

Total number of penalties made in the game by both teams

Over/Under                   12½

Total number of penalties assessed on the Carolina Panthers

Over/Under                   6

Total number of penalties assessed on the Denver Broncos

Over/Under                   6½

Margin of Victory

Panthers by 1-6 points                          3/1

Panthers by 7-12 points                         4/1

Panthers by 13-18 points                        11/2

Panthers by 19-24 points                       9/1

Panthers by 25-30 points                       16/1

Panthers by 31-36 points                       25/1

Panthers by 37-42 points                       40/1

Panthers by 43+ points                           50/1

Broncos by 1-6 points                             4/1

Broncos by 7-12 points                           8/1

Broncos by 13-18 points                         12/1

Broncos by 19-24 points                        25/1

Broncos by 25-30 points                        50/1

Broncos by 31-36 points                        75/1

Broncos by 37-42 points                        100/1

Broncos by 43+ points                            100/1

MVP AND FIRST TO SCORE A TOUCHDOWN ODDS

Super Bowl 50 – Odds to Win MVP

Cam Newton                              5/7

Peyton Manning                        11/4

Luke Kuechly                             14/1

C.J. Anderson                             20/1

Ted Ginn Jr.                               20/1

Von Miller 20/1

Greg Olsen                                 22/1

Emmanuel Sanders                   22/1

Jonathan Stewart                      22/1

Demaryius Thomas                   22/1

Josh Norman                             28/1

Aqib Talib                                  33/1

DeMarcus Ware                         33/1

Corey Brown                              66/1

Owen Daniels                             66/1

Graham Gano                             66/1

Ronnie Hillman                          66/1

Brandon McManus                     66/1

Darian Stewart                            66/1

Danny Trevathan                        66/1

Chris Harris Jr.                            75/1

Devin Funchess                           100/1

Brandon Marshall                       100/1

Derek Wolfe                                 100/1

Kurt Coleman                               150/1

Mike Tolbert                                 150/1

Field                                              33/1

First Touchdown Scorer

Cam Newton (CAR)                       7/1

Greg Olsen (CAR)                          15/2

Jonathan Stewart (CAR)               8/1

C.J. Anderson (DEN)                     9/1

Emmanuel Sanders (DEN)           9/1

Demaryius Thomas (DEN)           9/1

Ted Ginn Jr. (CAR)                        10/1

Corey Brown (CAR)                       14/1

Owen Daniels (DEN)                     14/1

Ronnie Hillman (DEN)                 14/1

Mike Tolbert (CAR)                      16/1

Jerricho Cotchery (CAR)              20/1

Devin Funchess (CAR)                 20/1

Andre Caldwell (DEN)                  25/1

Jordan Norwood (DEN)                25/1

Ed Dickson (CAR)                         33/1

Peyton Manning (DEN)               50/1

No touchdown scorer                  66/1

Field                                             11/2

PLAYER PROPS

Will Peyton Manning throw a Pick 6 in the game?

Yes      +300 (3/1)

No        -500 (1/5)

Will Cam Newton break the Super Bowl record of most rushing yards by a QB?

Yes      +275 (11/4)

No        -450 (2/9)

(Note: The record is 64 by Steve McNair in Super Bowl XXXIV.)

Total Passing Yards – Peyton Manning (DEN)

Over/Under                   235½

Total Passing Yards – Cam Newton (CAR)

Over/Under                   240½

Total Touchdown Passes – Cam Newton (CAR)

Over     1½         (-180, 5/9)

Under   1½        (+150, 3/2)

Total Touchdown Passes – Peyton Manning (DEN)

Over     1½         (-135, 20/27)

Under   1½        (+105, 21/20)

Cam Netwon and Peyton Manning Specials

Cam Newton records 300 or more Passing Yards                        7/2

Cam Newton records 350 or more Passing Yards                        9/1

Cam Newton records 50 or more Rushing Yards                         3/2

Cam Newton records 100 or more Rushing Yards                        12/1

Cam Newton records 25 or more Completions                             5/1

Cam Newton scores a Rushing TD and Carolina win the game   2/1

Peyton Manning records 300 or more Passing Yards                  7/4

Peyton Manning records 350 or more Passing Yards                  5/1

Peyton Manning records 30 or more Completions                      15/2

Total Rushing Yards – Cam Newton (CAR)

Over/Under                   39½

Total Rushing Yards – Ted Ginn Jr. (CAR)

Over/Under                   5½

Will Luke Kuechly record a pick 6 in the game?

Yes      +600  (6/1)

No        -1200 (1/12)

(Note: Kuechly had a pick 6 in both playoff games this year.)

Total Sacks – Von Miller (DEN)

Over     ½          (-225, 4/9)

Under   ½         (+180, 9/5)

CROSS-SPORTS PROPS

Cross Sport Props – What will be higher?

Trump % Points in the New Hampshire Primary               -200 (1/2)

Total Points scored by the winning Super Bowl team       +150 (3/2)

Cross Sport Props – Exact Outcome

Carolina wins Super Bowl – Trump Wins 2016 Presidential Election                       13/4

Carolina wins Super Bowl – Cinton Wins 2016 Presidential Election                       7/4

Carolina wins Super Bowl – Sanders Wins 2016 Presidential Election                     5/1

Denver wins Super Bowl – Trump Wins 2016 Presidential Election                        7/1

Denver wins Super Bowl – Clinton Wins 2016 Presidential Election                       9/2

Denver wins Super Bowl – Sanders Wins 2016 Presidential Election                      10/1

Cross Sport Props – What are the odds the Carolina Panthers win the 2016 Super Bowl and the Golden State Warriors win the 2015-2016 NBA Title?

Yes                  2/1

Will Denver win Super Bowl, Peyton Manning Retires, San Antonio wins NBA Championship, Tim Duncan Retires?

Yes                  20/1

Cross Sport Props – What will be higher?

DeMarcus Cousins Points and Rebounds Feb. 7

Cam Newton Rushing Yards

Cross Sport Props – What will be higher?

Total Goals in the Montreal vs Carolina NHL game on Feb. 7

Total Receptions by Greg Olsen

Cross Sport Props – What will be higher?

Tiger Woods 1st Round score at 2016 Masters

Emmanuel Sanders Receiving Yards

Cross Sport Props – What will be higher?

Arsenal Total Goals on Feb. 7

Peyton Manning TD Passes

Let me know who and what you’re betting on with Facebook or Twitter

The Pro Bowl Sucked, But At Least The Seahawks Had Fun

The Pro Bowl is dumb. There’s no debate about that.

Last night, Russell Wilson was the only one among the Top 6 quarterbacks in the league to even be present in Honolulu, and that showed as he threw 3 touchdowns and won the game’s Offensive MVP award for it, I guess.

Meanwhile, one of his teammates took home the “Defensive” MVP award. I put that in quotes because DEFENSE is a relative term when it comes to the Pro Bowl. By the 4th quarter, the game devolved to touch football and nobody was even trying to tackle each other…and why should they when it’s just an exhibition game and nobody wants to risk getting hurt?

In my opinion, those in charge of the Pro Bowl couldn’t let Michael Bennett leave without any hardware after this attempt to make it fun for all involved.

 

Meanwhile, Richard Sherman attempted a Stone Cold Stunner on Packers linebacker Clay Matthews.

Sherman Stunner

“MAH GAWD, THAT MAN HAS A FAMILY!” Maybe.

While the players had fun hanging out and pretending to play football, one viewer was having an absolute blast watching this game. Safety Earl Thomas live tweeted the whole thing for the rest of us.

And we appreciate Thomas for apologizing on behalf of his teammates, but maybe he can say the same for his fellow players union members too who have it in the Collective Bargaining Agreement to keep this mess going.

 

As bad as the game was, there’s a good chance the Pro Bowl drew a better viewership than the NHL’s All-Star game…which I heard was great.

 

Follow along for more on Facebook and Twitter!

 

 

#DoughnutFriday Roundup – January

#DoughnutFriday started out as an office tradition I had with coworkers in the Sun-Times building over a year ago. Every week, someone else took it up themselves to impress the rest of us with their awesome doughnut spot that nobody had tried before. I would get geeked about the opportunity when it came to my turn because I LOVED sharing the doughnuts I grew up with and making new people understand why.

2016 started on a Friday and I thought this could be a fun tradition to expand upon and an opportunity to connect with doughnut lovers everywhere. Every Friday this year, I want to try a new doughnut shop and would encourage others to do the same. You can either recommend new spots for me to try (and I will) or just share a photo from the shop you’re trying yourself on either Facebook or Twitter. At the end of each month, I’ll post here about all different places I tried as well as any photos you share with me…Could be a good bit of fun.

This month’s #DoughnutFriday features are all pretty close to home for me in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, but I’ll begin making the rounds to different areas starting in February.

EggShells – January 1st, 2016

Screen Shot 2016-01-29 at 12.39.28 PM

596 W Main St, Lake Zurich, IL

Website / Facebook 

Please complain sometimes about not being able to order breakfast for delivery. Guess what? EggShells delivers! The semi-cramped layout of the place adds to the charm. The bagels and lunch sandwiches are delicious as well.

 

Spring Donut – January 8th, 2016

Screen Shot 2016-01-29 at 12.40.13 PM

113 S Cook St, Barrington, IL

Facebook

This was a fun new discovery in Barrington. They make their Kurtos (Hungarian Doughnuts), also known as “chimney cakes”, fresh as you order them, and fill them with your choice of peanut butter or Nutella. It’s fantastic. They also serve other pastries, sandwiches, soup, coffee and dessert drinks.

 

Morkes Chocolates – February 15th, 2016

Screen Shot 2016-01-29 at 12.41.00 PM

1890 N Rand Rd, Palatine, IL

Website / Facebook / Twitter

Yes, it’s primarily a chocolate shop, but the doughnuts are excellent as well. It’s also one of the few places in the area that serves cider doughnuts. If you grew up around here, you’ll feel nostalgic for the Orchards in Lake Zurich or the apple cider shop in Long Grove.

 

Spunky Dunkers – January 22nd, 2016

Screen Shot 2016-01-29 at 12.41.49 PM

20 S Northwest Hwy, Palatine, IL

Website / Facebook / Twitter

One of the best doughnut shops in the area. There’s a new location in Arlington Heights, if you so happen to live that way. Always fresh, always delicious. I’m partial to the honey dipped doughnuts, but you really can’t go wrong. Also an awesome choice for Paczki Day!

 

Old World Bakery – January 29th, 2016

Screen Shot 2016-01-29 at 12.42.39 PM

64 N Old Rand Rd, Lake Zurich, IL

Facebook

So those doughnuts I mentioned earlier that I was excited to make my coworkers believers for…these are them. That big soft gooey looking thing is called a “Big Cin” and it’s a totally different level of cinnamon roll. The long johns are top notch and there’s plenty of other options as well.

Have some doughnut photos or recommendations to share? Pass them along on either Facebook or Twitter. I’ll be looking your way next week, downtown Chicago. 

Early Reports on 2016 NBA All-Star Reserves Comfirmed

A week ago, the Eastern and Western Conference All-Stars were selected by fan voting and announced on TNT. The NBA on TNT crew will do the same tonight at 6 PM CT, but a few reporters are spoiling the news a little early.

Delaware Online engagement editor Carron J. Phillips reported 6 hours before the announcement show that reserves joining the East (Kyle Lowry, Paul George, Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade) and West (Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Russell Westbrook, Stephen Curry) will be…

 

 

Then just over an hour before the TNT announcement show, Atlanta Hawks beat writer Chris Vivlamore reported the same reserve rosters.

 

[Update]: NBA on TNT announced and confirmed the All-Star Reserves.

 

 

For more, follow along on Facebook and Twitter

Game of Thrones Pre-Season 6 Power Rankings

The closer we get to Game of Thrones S6, the more necessary it is to get talking about what’s to come. This season I’ll be keeping a power ranking of the many characters with significance to the plot. Below is “Pre-Season” ranking of characters who either did or may have survived the past season, as well as their importance for what’s to come. Season 6 will premiere April 24th, 2016.

Obviously a number of spoilers will be mentioned here, so don’t read the descriptions if you haven’t caught up on the series yet. 

1. Jon Snow

Jon Snow PR

There was no character talked about or speculated over more than Jon Snow. I had initially written this list (with 10 more characters) before the S5 finale and Jon was on the top of my rankings then. Nobody did more right, especially when he executed Janos Slynt with his own sword, but was still betrayed for it. What’s next is still a mystery and that makes him more compelling than anyone else.

2. Daenerys Targeryian

Daenerys PR

Daenerys’s rule in Meereen was parallel to Jon’s reign as Lord Commander. It took her a little longer to get the hang of imposing her power and they may have been her downfall when the Sons of the Harpy made their move. She put together a solid council of trust with Tyrion and Daario, and continues to build her army in the least suspecting ways…Oh, and she still has the badass MF’n dragons.

3. Tyrion Lannister

Tyrion PR

Whatever the redeeming qualities of a Lannister are, Tyrion embodies them. It’s those qualities of honor and a little bit of diplomacy that helped him survive traveling a world away from Kings Landing, while also forming the Thrones version of D-Generation X with Daenerys. With the Khaleesi away, he’s the only one in Meereen with experience of managing/ruling a city.

4. Night’s King

Night's King PR

You saw “Hardhome”, right?

5. Samwell Tarley

Samwell PR

Sam went from being virtually unable to do a thing to “White Walker Slayer”. Standing by Jon for as long as he did and standing up for Gilly to his fellow “brothers of the watch” make him about as pure as any character on the show. Along with his growing bravery, you have to imagine Sam’s meister-esque skills are going to come in handy too.

6. Jaime Lannister

Jamie Lannister PR

I’m not sure if there’s a character that has evolved quite like Jaime. The shorter his hair gets, the less douchebag’ish he becomes. Taking down Ned Stark long ago is going to come with consequences, but the loyalty and honor he showed Brienne and Tyrion made you almost forget that happened. He’s going to be looking for blood though after spending all S5 trying to bring home Myrcella, and then losing her. Should be some clashing with Cersei over that…and the Martells.

7. Petyr Baelish

Game of Thrones

Petyr Baelish reminds you why it’s called “Game of Thrones”, and in a way he’s winning at it. Two comparisons to the actor Aiden Gillen’s work: Little Finger is like Marlo Stanfield (The Wire) in the way he gains power with cunning and blood. And similar to Bane, he’s necessary evil.

8. Ser Jorah

Game of Thrones

After losing all favor from Daenerys, Ser Jorah is charging back like a man with nothing to lose (because of the grey scale) and in love (duh). Probably want to stay out of his way.

9. Daario Naharis

Daario PR

Daario’s intentions have always been a little suspicious to me. Obviously an expert assassin and has wooed Daenerys, but I feel like I’m waiting for the other mercenary show to drop…perhaps with the slave owner-sympathizing Sons of the Harpy. He comes off as a bit of a frontrunner that way.

10. Tormund

Game of Thrones

Tormund is all firy ginger badass and now has the weight of his people on those super broad shoulders. With his “Crow” ally going down, he’s going to be left with handling the rest of the double-crossing crows.

11. Arya Stark

Arya PR

Arya’s body count is super impressing. Killing Ser Meryn may have been her most impressive move yet, but now she’s dealing with some weird Jedi training that has caused her to go blind. Does that make her more dangerous or calm her down? I assume the former.

12. High Sparrow

High Sparrow PR

Impressively taking down 3 high ranking members of the royal family with the help of his extremist following makes the High Sparrow a very dangerous and powerful figure in Kings Landing. The King himself, Tommen, let him has his way with his mother and wife…We’ll see how that goes over in Season 6.

13. Bronn

Bronn PR

Being charming, funny, and driven (for the right price) have helped Bronn battle through some impossible odds. It’s probably that charm that saved him after being poisoned by the Sand Snakes. I would rank him 2nd most skilled among the higher “guns”, next to Daario.

14. Gilly

Gilly PR

Gilly’s been through some serious shit. So alongside Samwell Tarley, she’s done putting up with anyone’s shit, especially when she has to raise a baby too. That combination make her much more admirable than many of the characters on this list.

15. Brienne

Brienne PR

Brienne can clearly kick nearly anybody’s ass on the show (see the battle with The Hound). However, sitting and waiting on Sansa for as long as she did, only to bail when it mattered most was really disheartening. I do hope she FINALLY catches up with Sansa to properly protect her, because none of her promises to Catelyn Stark regarding her children have worked out yet.

16. Ser Davos

Ser Davos PR

Ser Davos is going to have some Wyatt Erp type rage when he learns about both Shireen and Stannis. I don’t think he’ll be satisfied until he has Melisandre’s head on a pike. Davos is resourceful and can lead an army. He may have either the Wildlings or Night’s Watch to work with when he settles somewhere, along with his pirate connections.

17. Lord Varys

Lord Varys PR

I have a feeling Varys will be much higher on this list before long. Like Baelish, he’s playing the game, albeit more honorably. He has spies everywhere too and I’m very certain he orchestrated getting Tyrion to Meereen, knowing full-well that Jorah could get him there.

18. Drogon

Drogon PR

Drogon is certainly the hot head of his dragon siblings, but he’s also far and away the most dangerous. Daenerys would have been Caesar’ed by the Harpy if it weren’t for Drogon, and he’s really the embodiment of her power.

19. Three-Eyed Raven

Three-Eyed Raven PR

This crazy all-seeing character that will be played by the excellent Max Von Sydow is too mysterious to rank higher, but perhaps too powerful to rank lower. He tells Bran that he could eventually fly and that makes me want to ready the popcorn.

20. Hodor

Screen Shot 2016-01-27 at 8.28.56 PM

Hodor. Hode…Hodor.

21. Bran Stark

Bran PR

Bran’s had a full year away from the screen to work on powers, while also likely getting old enough for us not to recognize him. You get the feeling he could be very high in these rankings by the end of Season 6…that is if the Three-Eyed Raven hype is real.

22. Queen of Thorns

Game of Thrones

I think we all know now that she had something to do with Joffrey’s death, and her demeanor certainly suggests there’s a power play in motion to spring her grandchildren out of the Sparrow’s keep…I would also tell the rest of the Lannister’s to look out as well.

23. Stannis Baratheon

Stannis PR

This is my favorite GIF from all of last season. Stannis makes this list without real confirmation that Brienne finished him on the battlefield, but I wouldn’t be shocked if she had. So much to feel conflicted about regarding Stannis. He was obviously played by Melisandre. He ran his army like a true general and had every right to the throne, knowing what we do about the Lannisters. Burning your own daughter alive for selfish gain is still unforgivable though.

24. Jaqen H’ghar

Jaqen H'ghar PR

I HAVE NO FUCKING CLUE WHAT THIS GUY IS! And that’s what makes him so interesting.

25. Cersei Lannister

Cersei PR

Through the first few seasons, Cersei would have been very low on this list. She gave you every reason to hate her. But then when she was finally getting hers, I sympathized with her. How did you do that, Game of Thrones? I especially loved every threat she made toward the Nurse Ratched Sparrow nun. She’s going to exact plenty of revenge with her new Zombie Mountain too.

26. Zombie Mountain

Mountain PR

…as I was saying.

27. Ghost

Ghost PR

Don’t fuck with this Direwolf.

28. Sansa Stark

Sansa PR

Every bad thing that has happened to the Starks, Sansa represents that. We saw her make some serious power moves, and some that just ended horrifically. She’s out of Ramsey’s grasp, for now, and we just need her to align with the right forces for once. Greyjoys? Stannis or Stark sympathizers? Resurrected Jon Snow?! Come on!

29. Podrick

Pod PR

Podrick is the purest of characters on the show and ridiculously loyal. I don’t know if that will keep him alive, but hey…it’s pretty damn admirable. Helps that he’s alongside Brienne.

30. Melisandre

Melisandre

Setting up Stannis, burning Shireen, making demon babies…Not a lot redeeming about Melisandre…except for the part where she could potentially resurrect Jon Snow, and we’re all hoping for that. She’s had her eye on Jon for a while, so *gulp*.

31. Lady Margaery

Marjorie PR

Margaery is so charming and obviously playing the game herself, so you know she has another agenda altogether…But I’m excited to see what the Queen of Thorns has planned to set her free and how much longer she’ll need to have Tommen wrapped around her finger.

32. Tyene Sand

Tyene Sand PR

Tyene is the one Sand sister that stuck out. “The most beautiful woman in the world” dominated Bronn, in her own unique way, and i don’t think we’ve seen the last of those two crossing paths again.

33. Tommen

Tommen PR

The “He’s not Joffrey” point is loud and clear here. He is a bit of a wet blanket, but he’s king of the wet blankets.

34. Eddison Tollett

Eddison Tollett PR

Eddison is the last of the notable Night’s Watch, besides Sam, to fight by Jon’s side. I don’t necessarily see that changing after their experiences fighting beyond the wall, on the wall and in Hardhome.

35. Missandei

Missandei PR

Missandei was Daenerys’s voice to her people and that goes a long way. Should continue as she works with Tyrion while Daenerys is away.

36. Grey Worm

Grey Worm PR

When you see Grey Worm in the next season, and especially in scenes with Missandei, picture George Michael’s “Careless Whisper” playing in the background. Seriously. Do it.

37. Wildling Giant

Giant PR

I hope he does this to Olly.

38. Doran Martell

Doren PR

Doren treated Jamie Lannister pretty fairly, and certainly Ellaria too fairly. But there seems to be a grander scheme with him sending Trystain to Kings Landing. There may be a vendetta for Oberyn that’s being masked by his calm demeanor.

39. Areo Hotah

Areo Hotah

Big man can move, that’s for sure. Would love to see him get a crack at Zombie Mountain.

40. Trystain Martell

Trystain PR

Trystain worked his way onto the King’s council, with some negotiating by Jaime and Doren. If he was in on Mycella’s murder though, that’s cold blooded.

41. Meera Reed

Meera PR

Also been away with Bran, Hodor and “The Children” for a year. Probably stewing over the death of her brother. I have no idea what to expect from her, but I imagine it will be violent.

42. Kevan Lannister

Kevan Lannister PR

Currently, the new Hand with plenty of battle experience. He seems smart and savvy like Tywinn, but I’m not sure how much that will matter. It will be interesting to see if he keeps supporting the Boltons.

43. Waif

Waif PR

Waif is mean and mysterious. She’ll likely be helping Arya train more, super reluctantly.

44. Obara Sand

Obara Sand PR

I don’t know, did she say or do much?

45. Nymeria Sand

Nymeria PR

…at least she did this. The Sand Snakes were less consequential than I had hoped. I’m expecting more with Trystain in Kings Landing.

46. Malko

Malko PR

Malko probably has no real plot significance going forward, but he does have a connection to Tyrion and possibly with Davos (pirate thing). Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje is too good an actor, in my opinion, for that small a role.

47. Loras Tyrell

Loras Tyrell PR

Loras got cocky (literally). I feel a lot better about Margaery’s future than his.

48. Reek/Theon Greyjoy

Theon Greyjoy PR

I have to admit, I rooted for EVERY bad thing Ramsay did to Theon. When he didn’t step up for Sansa, I wanted worse things to happen to him…until he finally did.

49. Ellaria Sand

Ellaria Sand PR

Oberyn once said, “We don’t hurt little girls in Dorne.” Well, you broke his word, Ellaria. You’re going to have to pay for that.

50. Roose Bolton

Roose PR

There’s a reckoning coming for Roose and his old pal Walder Frey. How it comes will be fun to speculate.

51. Lancel Lannister

Lancel PR

Lancel is just another empowered asshole with a bad forehead brand-tattoo. Don’t expect his Lannister kin to sympathize when things go sideways for him.

52. Olyvar

Olyvar PR

Selling out Loras gets you zero brownie points.

53. Mace Tyrell

Mace Tyrell PR

Quite possibly the most useless character on the show so far. He has done nothing of consequence at all.

54. Ser Alliser

Ser Alliser PR

Ser Alliser was showing signs at different points of an admirable character, but plotting a mutiny against the Lord Commander that only tried to build your forces is pretty selfish and shortsighted.

55. Olly

Olly PR

Again, let the giant rip this kid in two.

56. Ramsay Snow/Bolton

Ramsay PR

The fucking worst. All expletives necessary.

Anyone too high or too low? Let me know on Facebook or Twitter!

 

 

 

 

Great Movie Moments with Dessert

Today is #NationalChocolateCakeDay, so of course the first thing that came to mind for me was how The Outsiders would eat chocolate cake for breakfast.

Outsiders Chocolate Cake

Sidenote: Please don’t reboot this movie, Hollywood. You’re not going to find a cast that matches the star power of these “Greasers”. 

The Outsiders

A movie becomes memorable by appealing to the several senses of its audience. A great line that tickles you funny. An emotional scene that pulls your heart strings. Or that thing that got your sweet-tooth senses tingling.

Here’s a list of scenes that stick with you, thanks to something tasty.

“Come with me, and you’ll be…”

Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory, 1971

This song will be stuck in your head for the next week. You’re welcome.

 

“Leave the gun, take the cannoli.”

The Godfather, 1972

If you grew up in Italian kitchens like I did, you’re picking up cannolis wherever you see them. As you do so, without question this exact scene runs through your head every time.

 

“The 5 cent one?!”

Once Upon a Time in America, 1984

Strong lesson in picking up dessert before a date.

 

“Baby? Ruth?”

Goonies, 1985

You should see how strong I am when in a similar a situation and Reese’s peanut butter cup is just out of my reach.

 

“Oh Rufio…?”

Hook, 1991

Is it weird that thing I remember most from this movie, outside of the Rufio chants and Dustin Hoffman’s ticking mustache, are the frosting pies? Literally just frosting in a pie crust…Just me?

“I’ve gotta know what a $5 shake tastes like.”

Pulp Fiction, 1994

Of my 5 favorite lines from Pulp Fiction, 2 have to do with food. This one, and the “Royale with cheese.”

 

“Lieutenant Dan, ICE CREAM!”

Forrest Gump, 1994

If you happen to ever get Dairy Queen with me, I will more than likely do an incredible impression of this and either make you laugh…or embarrass the hell out of you.

“Wait for the cream…”

Inglorious Basterds, 2009

Christoph Waltz set the bar pretty high for himself when Quentin Tarantino introduced him to American cinema audiences with Inglorious Basterds. His “Hans Landa” will go down as an all-time movie villain and he won an Oscar for it. He also made eating strudel way more suspenseful than it needed to be.

 

“Who’s got the throat slitter?”

The Grand Budapest Hotel, 2014

The Mendl’s cakes play a HUGE role in this film, and look absolutely delicious. Thankfully there’s a “How-To” video for making them yourself.

 

“Chocolate lava cake is not just undercooked chocolate cake.”

Chef, 2014

Chef is one of my favorite films in recent years. It actually inspired me to do my Food Truck Challenge this past summer. And now our list has come full circle because CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKE.

Note: American Pie, Matilda, and Stand By Me were left off because those scenes only make you lose your appetite.

Do some more memorable scenes come to mind? Let me know on Facebook or Twitter

All The Super Bowl 50 Storylines, So Far…

Conference Championship Sunday featured the #1 seeds from both the AFC and NFC showing exactly how they got to where they are now. The Broncos defense beat the crap of Tom Brady, hitting him more than any other quarterback was all season, and their quarterback did enough to pull off the win. While the Panthers were also stellar on defense, their offense continued to shred another opposing top defense. Cam Newton became the 3rd quarterback to rush for 2 touchdowns and throw 2 as well in the playoffs (after Jay Cutler and Colin Kaepernick).

For the next two weeks, we’re going to wait way too long for what can be very good game…or an absolute blowout (I believe it will be the former). What you can expect is a plethora of storylines because both these teams aren’t lacking at all for them. You may get a new one every 12 hours until kickoff.

Here are ALL the storylines I could think of so far.

 

1. Cam’s Arrival

Screen Shot 2016-01-25 at 12.03.02 PM

Cam Newton has fun. After yesterday’s 49-15 decimation of the Arizona Cardinals, Newton had compiled 50 total touchdowns for 2015-16 (regular season and post season combined). Newton has a patented pointing mechanic on first downs, dances after touchdowns, and hands the ball to a kid in the stands when he’s done. You may not like it, but you’re going to have to get used to it. The league has become his video game and everyone else looks like they’re on “Easy Mode” for him.

Newton came into the league as a Heisman Trophy winner with a bad rap. He was arrested at Florida for stealing a laptop. His time at Auburn was scrutinized due to an investigation into his recruitment, which the NCAA came away with nothing. He was still drafted #1 overall and now has a chance to win a Super Bowl after 5 seasons, very likely with an MVP trophy on his mantle as well. What’s scary is that he’s done it without his #1 receiver, Kelvin Benjamin, all season.

Football fans without a stick up their asses are loving it. Others will choose to be miserable, and you’ll hear plenty from them for the next 2 weeks.

Some people just can’t have nice things, and that’s fine. Newton fans, on the other hand, can keep enjoying the best player in the league right now. In his last 10 games, Newton has scored 31 touchdowns (24 passing, 7 rushing). Who else from Newton’s “generation” comes even close to his level of play? Maybe Russell Wilson, but that’s it.

2. Peyton’s Last Stand

Screen Shot 2016-01-25 at 12.05.03 PM

Of the 4 quarterbacks facing off on Championship Sunday, Peyton Manning had the most on the line in terms of legacy. A win would help change his narrative that he’s just the best “regular season” quarterback. Now he’s won more games against 4-time champion Tom Brady than lost (3-2), and could join an elite group of only 11 quarterbacks with multiple Super Bowl rings.

While the Broncos didn’t necessarily win because of Manning (we’ll get to that in a minute), they weren’t going to lose because of him either. When the running game couldn’t get going, Manning made key 3rd down conversions with both his arm and even his legs.

Manning run

When Peyton Manning is successfully running boot plays on your defense, you might not deserve to go to the Super Bowl. In his 4th trip, Manning can do something that the president of the Denver Broncos, John Elway, accomplished before retiring…go out on top.

3. Defense Wins Championships

Screen Shot 2016-01-25 at 12.07.39 PM

Super Bowl 50 is going to feature the league’s 2 best defenses who clearly proved that on Championship Sunday. The Broncos halted the #1 passing team in the NFL (New England) and the Panthers did the same with the #2 passing team (Arizona).

As mentioned earlier, the Broncos defense just manhandled Tom Brady and Von Miller led the way with 2.5 sacks and an interception. Miller’s presence was the certainly felt but so Derek Wolfe and DeMarcus Ware’s, only allowing Brady to finish 7/23 for 73 yards and a passer rating of 37.0 when pressured. The most impressive part of the Broncos defense dominating a fully healthy Patriots offense was that they were able to do so blitzing Brady a season low 17.2% of the time.

Throwing to Rob Growkowski against the Broncos, Brady was 8/15 for 144 and 1 touchdown. Throwing to everyone else, he was 19/41, 166 yards and 0 TDs. Heads up, Greg Olsen.

The Panthers ranked 2nd in defensive efficiency in 2015 (according to ESPN), just behind Denver. While the Broncos pressure the quarterback like crazy, the Panthers defense is racking up points off turnovers. On top Newton’s insane scoring rate, the Panthers have added 9.5 points per game to their net margin of victory as a result of takeaways, 1.7 points more than anyone else. They forced 7 turnovers, 6 from Carson Palmer, on Sunday.

 

4. Coaches Have A Lot In Common

Screen Shot 2016-01-25 at 12.11.19 PM

Both Ron Rivera and Gary Kubiak played on teams that went to the Super Bowl. Rivera won as a linebacker with the 1985 Chicago Bears. Kubiak went to 3, all as backup quarterback to John Elway, and lost them too.

Both Rivera and Kubiak went to the Super Bowl as coordinators. Rivera was the Bears’ defensive coordinator in 2006-07, losing to Peyton Manning’s Colts. Kubiak won three after his playing career, once as an assistant for the 49ers (1994) and twice more as Broncos offensive coordinator (1997 & 1998).

Now both Rivera and Kubiak will be standing on opposite sidelines of the sport’s biggest stage. They were also both successors for current Bears head coach John Fox.

5. Poor John Fox

Screen Shot 2016-01-25 at 12.14.11 PM

Actually, good new Bears fans!

John Fox went to the Super Bowl in each of his second seasons with the Panthers and Broncos. He didn’t win, but going is a nice improvement.

 

6. Other Bears Connections

Screen Shot 2016-01-25 at 12.15.16 PM

A few more former Bears you can root for in the Super Bowl, if you feel so inclined:

1. Greg, Son of Olsen.

Greg son of Olsen

2. Jared Allen (meh)

3. Charles “Peanut” Tillman (although on IR, but still a great dude)

Panthers Tillman

 

7. Unsung Heroes

Broncos Bench

The Broncos “Other” Defensive Linemen (above)

While Miller, Ware and Wolfe get all the sack glory, defensive ends Malik Jackson and Antonio Smith and nose tackle Sylvester Williams are teeing them up and destroying opposing running backs.

Ted Ginn Jr.

I love that Ted Ginn Jr. went from being the guy who drops everything to a 10 touchdown WR. A lot of that may be thanks to his quarterback, but somebody has to take the top off defenses and burn opposing safeties like Ginn has.

Emmanuel Sanders

Something I may have left out of Peyton Manning’s storyline was how Emmanuel Sanders made some of the BIGGEST plays on 3rd down for his quarterback. While Damaryius Thomas was off and on during the season, Sanders had 4 games of 8+ receptions. With Manning throwing more underneath and Josh Norman covering Thomas, Sanders will be a huge key against the Broncos nickel coverage.

 

The Panthers Team Picture Game

Exhibit A

Stay Tuned For More Super Bowl 50 Coverage on MichaelPiff.com. There will be more on the Halftime Show, Commercials, Media Day, and the annual “Everything But Football” piece as well. Follow along on Facebook and Twitter

 

Bruce Springsteen Live in Chicago (1-19-2016) Available For Free Today

I have to admit, it was my first Bruce Springsteen show…and it certainly won’t be my last.

Springsteen and the E Street Band brought “The River Tour” to Chicago last week, and blew the roof off the United Center. Sunday night, Springsteen made the recording from the concert available in MP3 form for FREE from his website for the next 2 days. There are 33 live tracks, including the entire ‘River’ album and Springsteen’s first live performance of “Take It Easy” by the late Glenn Frey and The Eagles.

For a direct link to Springsteen’s site where you can download the entire album free, click here.

The album will be free until Tuesday evening. MP3s and CDs will go on sale Wednesday, January 27th.

Also, check out some of the amazing photos from Don Marshall of Marshall Productions!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

 For more, follow along on Facebook and Twitter!

Chicago Restaurant Week 2016: The Full List of Participants

It’s actually 2 weeks (January 22nd – February 4th, 2016), but who’s complaining?

For 14 days, 350+ restaurants in downtown Chicago and the suburbs participate in the annual event with great deals and prix fixe menus starting at $22 for lunch, then $33 and/or $44 for dinner (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity).

Below you can navigate the full list of participants in alphabetical order, with websites and menus included. Whatever you have a taste for, it’s probably on the list.

[A-F] [G-L] [M-R] [S-Z]

And please do share your pics from Chicago Restaurant Week with us on Facebook and Twitter!

Chicago Restaurant Week Spots (A-F)

 

[A-F] [G-L] [M-R] [S-Z]

Italian
Loop
 
 
American
Magnificent Mile
 
 
American
South Loop
 
 
Italian
West Town
 
 
Italian
Hyde Park
 
 
Italian
Loop
 
 
American
West Town
 
 
American Contemporary
Loop
 
 
American
Magnificent Mile
 
 
 
American Contemporary
River North
 
 
Japanese/Sushi
Lakeview
 
 
American Contemporary
Andersonville
 
 
American
Lincoln Park
 
 
Japanese/Sushi
West Town
 
 
Latin
Lakeview
 
 
GastroTavern/Pub
Northwest Suburbs
 
 
American
West Suburbs
 
 
American
Loop
 
 
Mediterranean
West Loop
 
 
Italian
River North
 
 
Italian
Lincoln Park
 
 
Wine Bar
Lakeview
 
 
Italian
West Loop
 
 
Latin
West Loop
 
 
Italian
Magnificent Mile
 
 
Latin
West Suburbs
 
 
Mexican
Lakeview
 
 
American Contemporary
Streeterville
 
 
American Contemporary
River North
 
 
American
Bucktown/Wicker Park
 
 
 
Asian Fusion
West Loop
 
 
Steakhouse
River North
 
 
 
Southern
Andersonville
 
 
French
Lincoln Square/Ravenswood
 
 
French
River North
 
 
French
Gold Coast
 
 
French
Gold Coast
 
 
American
West Loop
 
 
American Contemporary
River North
 
 
French
Lincoln Park
 
 
American Contemporary
River North
 
 
German
River North
 
 
American
Lincoln Park
 
 
American Contemporary
River North
 
 
American Contemporary
Irving Park
 
 
American
Bucktown/Wicker Park
 
 
BBQ/Ribs
River North
 
GastroTavern/Pub
River North
 
 
Spanish/Tapas
Lincoln Park
 
 
 
Italian
Magnificent Mile
 
 
Mexican
River North
 
 
Steakhouse
West Suburbs
 
 
Steakhouse
Streeterville
 
 
American
O’Hare
 
 
Italian
Gold Coast
 
 
Latin
West Loop
 
 
 
Seafood
Loop
 
 
Italian
Lakeview
 
 
GastroTavern/Pub
West Loop
 
 
American Contemporary
Loop
 
 
French
Little Italy/University Village
 
 
French
Lincoln Park
 
 
Seafood
South Loop
 
 
BBQ/Ribs
Gold Coast
 
 
Soul Food
West Loop
 
 
American
Bucktown/Wicker Park
 
 
Steakhouse
South Loop
 
 
American Contemporary
Magnificent Mile
 
 
BBQ/Ribs
Southwest Suburbs
 
 
BBQ/Ribs
West Suburbs
 
 
Seafood
Loop
 
 
Mediterranean
West Loop
 
 
Italian
River North
 
 
French
Loop
 
 
Italian
River North
 
 
Italian
Streeterville
 
 
Pizza
Bridgeport
 
 
Pizza
Gold Coast
 
 
American
Gold Coast
 
 
 
Italian
River North
 
 
American
Gold Coast
 
 
Steakhouse
River North
 
 
American
West Town
 
 
 
International Fusion
Lincoln Park
 
 
 
 
Seafood
River North
 
 
American
West Loop
 
 
Steakhouse
Gold Coast
 
 
Italian
River North
 
 
American Contemporary
Bridgeport
 
 
American
Lincoln Park
 
 
American
Lincoln Park
 
 
Seafood
Streeterville
 
 
 
Spanish/Tapas
West Suburbs
 
 
Bakery/Café/Deli/Diner
Dunning
 
 
Asian Fusion
West Loop
 
 
Wine Bar
River North
 
 
Japanese/Sushi
Bucktown/Wicker Park
 
 
American
River North
 
 
GastroTavern/Pub
River North
 
 
American
North Suburbs
 
 
Mediterranean
Gold Coast
 
 
 
Wine Bar
West Suburbs
 
 
American
West Loop
 
 
Italian
Gold Coast
 
 
American
Northwest Suburbs
 
 
Italian
Edgewater
 
 
 
Italian
Little Italy/University Village
 
 
 
Italian
Lakeview
 
 
 
American Contemporary
River North
 
 
Mexican
River North
 
 
American Contemporary
West Town
 
 
American Contemporary
West Loop