Funny how it works, eh? I certainly fell under the category of thinking the Yankees were a much more difficult foe for the Tigers in the playoffs than Oakland. In retrospect, I could not have been more wrong. The Athletics are one of the hottest teams in baseball. Often that is the deciding issue during the postseason. The Yankees looked brutal against the Tigers. But I believe that had more to do with the Tigers pitching than anything else. When the Yankees offense was shutdown, they had little else to turn to. Their pitching is not good. I was shocked how poorly they played defensively. I think Jim Leyland would be wise to set up his rotation with Justin Verlander, Kenny Rogers and Jeremy Bonderman start the first three games. I can see Nate Robertson having his biggest impact during the American League Championship Series working out of the bullpen. I see this series going the distance. And I have no idea which team will win.

Random thoughts

- This could be the season that finally ends the Matt Millen era in Detroit. It is almost as if the Lions are destined to win only two or three games this season. If they do not beat Buffalo at home this Sunday, watch out. Especially hurtful to Millen will be if Matt Leinart takes off in Arizona. His first start Sunday against Kansas City Sunday was a really good one. Despite a loss, he rallied his team and performed better than Joey Harrington did at anytime during his four seasons with the Lions. The Lions just might have passed on the great QB they have so desperately needed for nearly five decades.

- Michigan moving up to No. 4 in the AP poll is deserved. Seems like the Wolverines are on a collision course with Ohio State that might result in a truly epic regular season finale.

- I have to admit, there have been times when I have desperately missed Tiger Stadium. But Comerica Park is really starting to grow on me. I think moving the bullpen from right field to left field has made a huge difference. Oh, and so has a winning team.