WWE Survivor Series Fantasy Card PPV Results 11/20/11 Pt. 5

Santino Marella enters the ring and greets the fans in the World's Most Famous Arena and talks about how he was scheduled to compete tonight but is now unable to due to the number that Kevin Nash put on him last Monday. John Laurinaitis enters and tells Santino that he understands his predicament and has arranged for a match tonight. Laurinaitis says he has gone out of his way to ensure that Santino has the shortest contest of the evening that requires the least amount of work. After a pause, the imposing figure of Brodus Clay steps onto the entrance ramp. Brodus storms down to the ring and the match is underway.

Santino Marella v. Brodus Clay

Undeterred, Santino attempts a suplex to no avail. Brodus attempts a clothesline but Santino quickly dodges with a split and attempts a hip toss, which Clay counters by clubbing Santino in the back of the head. Brodus helps Santino back to his feet and Marella counters with a Santino Stunner.

Santino continues after the staggering Clay with a wind-up punch combination that brings him down to one knee. Rebounding off the ropes, Marella drops a Saluting Headbutt to the back of Brodus’ neck.

Santino sets up for the Cobra, but before he can strike, Brodus takes hold with a Tongan Death Grip and drops The Italian Stallion with a chokeslam. Clay stalks Santino and once on his feet, Marella falls victim to a Running Cross Body Block as Brodus picks up the easy win.

Winner: Brodus Clay

Wade Barrett walking in the Gorilla Position with the eight other members of Nexus directs traffic. Barrett sends all eight to the luxury boxes of MSG. Barrett dispatches Otunga, Slater, Gabriel and Sheffield to the left entrance and Harris, Jackson, Ryan and McGillicutty to the right entrance. Barrett knocks on the door to an unmarked dressing room and tells those inside that the troops are in position. Presumably speaking to his new partner in crime, Barrett asks if he’s ready to go but gets no answer. The Nexus leader opens the dressing room door just enough to get in and quietly closes the door behind himself.

Traditional Survivor Series 5-on-5 Elimination Tag Team Match:

Team Punk
(CM Punk, The Rock, John Cena, Sheamus and Triple H)
versus
Team Del Rio
(WWE Champion Alberto Del Rio, The Awesome Truth, Christian and Kevin Nash)

Justin Roberts introduces Ricardo Rodriguez and the WWE Champion enters first, followed by Christian, The Awesome Truth and finally Kevin Nash, who is joined by John Laurinaitis. The interim RAW GM explains that he will be in the corner of team Del Rio for this contest. Punk enters and cuts a promo on the whole team, telling them that they picked the perfect manager as he is a reflection of just how one-dimensional each and every one of them truly is: “It is my Destiny”, “One More Match”, “Little Jimmy”, “I’m Awesome”, “Why can’t I walk three feet without ending up on crutches?” enough already.” Punk calls Nash “Vinnie Vegas” and suggests that he go home and give his dice a good blow. Punk says it doesn’t matter who’s in their corner and turns his attention to Laurinaitis, telling him that should he get involved tonight, that “Funk Man” might find himself getting franchised before the night’s over.

Sheamus enters next and is followed shortly after by John Cena, the WWE COO and The Rock. The four of them pause on the entrance ramp and clear a path for their corner man--VINCE MCMAHON! The team makes a beeline for the ring and the entire ringside area breaks into utter chaos. Somehow the ref restores order and the match gets underway.

Triple H and Kevin Nash start. Nash no more than throws a Big Boot and chaos takes over yet again. In the midst of the brawl, Vince McMahon actually tackles Laurinaitis and begins to pummel him. The remaining four members of Team Del Rio rush to pull Vince off, which draws the other four members of Team Punk to fight off Team Del Rio. The ref toils to separate the parties, all the while turning his attention away from the match at hand. Nash sets up for a Jackknife Powerbomb, but Triple H blocks, drops to his knees and delivers a vile low blow. With Nash reeling, Triple H easily applies a double underhook and plants Nash with a Pedigree. The ref slides back into the ring in time to log the three count and the match’s first elimination. Triple H, however, is not satisfied with merely pinning his former friend.

As Nash writhes in pain on the canvas, Triple H reaches under the ring apron and pulls out his sledgehammer. A demonic look flashes across The Game’s face as he slides back into the ring. Sledge in hand, Triple H places a firm boot down on Nash’s ankle, holding him in place. Shawn Michaels and Sean Waltman come tearing down the entrance ramp, begging The Cerebral Assassin to reconsider. But the Game has made up his mind. Triple H raises the hammer high above his head and spikes the weight directly into Kevin Nash’s kneecap. Nash is screaming in pain on the verge of sobbing, but the King of King’s isn’t done. Triple H steps on Nash’s right ankle now. In virtually a repeated motion, Triple H shatters Nash’s other kneecap. Nash is rolling in agony, burying his face in the mat to muffle his screams.

The ref has disqualified Triple H at this point. Chioda throws up the "X" signal to bring officials down to ringside. As officials convene, Triple H brandishes the sledge at all of them, keeping them off the ring apron, then turns his attention back to the nearly motionless Nash. Placing one boot squarely on Nash's back, The Game lifts the Sledge one last time and plants the head right to the back of Nash's skull. As the EMTs carry Nash away, Triple H throws the Sledgehammer down and leaves the ring.

Sheamus and Christian start in place of their respective eliminated partners. After a brief staredown, Christian slaps Sheamus across the face. An infuriated Sheamus responds with a frenzy of face and body slaps and clobbers Christian with a spinning backfist. Christian staggers to the ropes where Sheamus connects with no fewer than twenty Hammer Blows before taking Captain Charisma off his feet with a Polish Hammer. Sheamus covers and gets two. Sheamus connects with a high knee lift and proceeds to hand countless knee drops to the back of Christian’s head before the ref has to call him off. As the ref separates the two, Christian sneaks in another slap and catches Sheamus on the charge with a flapjack for a one count.

Christian capitalizes with a rope choke before vaulting to the outside and slapping Sheamus a third time. Scaling to the top rope, Christian attempts a diving headbutt, but Sheamus moves at the last second. The Celtic Warrior goes to the top rope himself to attempt a Battering Ram, but Christian dodges, and Sheamus rolls through retreating to the outside. From the ring apron, Sheamus springboards and connects with the Battering Ram anyway. Christian kicks out at two. Sheamus attempts a short-arm clothesline, but Christian counters into a roll-up and gets a two count. Sheamus comes back with a Fallaway Slam, but Christian again counters into an Implant DDT for two. It seems that everything Sheamus attempts, Christian has an answer for. Sheamus whips Christian to the corner out of frustration and charges, only to walk into a Pendulum Kick and a Flashpoint Elbow. However, as Christian attempts the Flashpoint, Sheamus catches him mid-leap and connects instead with a Inverted Facelock Backbreaker. Incredibly, Christian escapes at 2 1/2.

Sheamus whips The Live-Wire to the buckle again, but this time, Christian counters with a Springboard Sunset Flip. Sheamus rolls through and throws a boot directly into Christian’s face, nearly picking up the three.

Sheamus primes up to deliver a Brogue Kick and Christian dodges again, locking in an attempted Killswitch. Sheamus shoves off, sending Christian off the ropes. Christian counters with a Spear and picks up a two-and-a-half as Christian argues with the ref out of disbelief. Backing into a corner, Christian primes for another Spear. Sheamus catches him mid-charge and drops Christian with an Irish Curse for another two count.

Now Sheamus’ temper is starting to flare. Getting back to his feet, Sheamus drops Christian with a running powerslam and goes for the cover. Christian averts yet again by getting his foot on the bottom rope. Out on his feet, Christian takes a Brogue Kick and becomes easy pickings for a High Cross Powerbomb and FINALLY Sheamus logs the three to eliminate Christian.

Alberto Del Rio rushes into the ring from behind and drops Sheamus with a Backstabber. The WWE Champion follows up with a Jumping Armbreaker. Del Rio picks up a vulnerable Sheamus and locks in the Flying Cross Armbreaker. Sheamus struggles valiantly for about three minutes before being left with no other option but to tap out.

Del Rio comes away from the cover and finds himself in a staredown with The Rock. After a tie-up, Rock Irish whips Del Rio into the corner and throws a flurry of punches before capping with the thrust punch. Del Rio charges out of the corner and into an overhead belly-to-belly suplex. The WWE Champion retreats to his corner and tags in The Miz. The Rock throws a flying clothesline, Miz recovers and walks into a Samoan Drop and kicks out at two. The Great One hits a Float-Over DDT, kips up and locks in a sharpshooter. Miz struggles and reaches the bottom rope to break the hold. Rock attempts a swinging neckbreaker, but Miz rolls out, kicks Rocky in the knee and drops him with a Kneeling DDT.

Miz cinches in a Dragon Sleeper, but the Rock struggles out and eventually tosses Miz off with a Back Body Drop. Rock crawls to the tag and in comes John Cena. Wanting nothing to do with a fresh Cena, Miz tags in R-Truth. Truth throws a Scissors Kick, but Cena dodges and comes back with a sitout Hip Toss and a one-handed bulldog for two.

Cena attempts a dropkick, but Truth blocks and connects with a Vertical Suplex Stunner for a very close two count. Truth throws a kick, but Cena catches and Truth counters with a spinning heel enziguri. Truth connects with a Sitout Suplex Slam, but Cena kicks out again. Truth hits the top turnbuckle and connects with a 450 splash, but Cena kicks out at two and gets back to his feet with Truth in tow. Cena hoists Truth onto his shoulders for an FU, but Truth demonstrates incredible agility by landing on his feet and rebounding with a Lie Detector for another two count.

Cena tags to CM Punk and Punk appears ready to lock up with Truth, but Truth thinks better of it, tagging back to the WWE Champion. Del Rio throws an Enziguri, but only logs a two count. Punk recovers, but Del Rio whips him to the outside. Punk climbs back onto the apron and hits a can opener to soften up Del Rio. Punk locks in an arm wrench and throws a mule kick that sends the WWE Champion stumbling into the corner. Punk hits the shining wizard and drops Del Rio with a bulldog out of the corner.

Punk mounts the top rope as the “Randy Savage” chants start in again. Punk connects with a Diving Elbow Smash and collects a 2 3/4 count. Punk debates the count with the ref, but to no avail. As Del Rio gets back to his feet, Punk throws a Roundhouse kick to the temple, sending the champion crumbling to the mat. As CM Punk signals for the GTS, Ricardo Rodriguez intervenes, jumping up on the apron. Punk drags him into the action and drops him with Go To Sleep instead. The distraction was enough, however, as Del Rio stealthily sneaks in and locks in the Flying Cross Armbreaker. Punk struggles and fights for several minutes to get to the bottom rope to break the hold.

Ever the innovator, Punk uses his free arm not to break the hold, but to climb from the bottom rope to the middle rope and gain enough traction to roll Del Rio over into a Schoolboy pin with the Armbreaker still locked in. For good measure, Punk latches his foot onto the middle rope (unbeknownst to the ref) and logs the three count. Outraged, Del Rio tries to plead and explain what happened to the referee. Ref turns his attention to Punk, but The Straight Edge Superstar just innocently shrugs off Del Rio’s claim. The ref ushers the WWE Champion out of the ring and Del Rio is eliminated.

The Miz rushes into the ring with a knee lift and drops Punk with a Reality Check. Miz connects with an inverted facelock backbreaker into a neckbreaker for another two count. Miz whips Punk to the buckle and lands a Clothesline out of the corner. Before Punk can regain his senses, Miz drops him with a Snapmare Driver into the canvas. Punk resiliently kicks out and now it’s Miz’ turn to argue with the ref. Punk recovers and sets up for GTS. Miz throws a few elbows and escapes into position for a Skull-Crushing Finale. Miz goes for the cover and John Laurinaitis holds down Punk’s legs out of view of the referee while Miz logs a three count and Punk is eliminated.

With a clear look of disgust on his face regarding what transpired, Punk turns his attention to Laurinaitis. The interim RAW GM tries to bolt, but Punk signals for Cena and The Rock to pursue him. Vince McMahon guides him into the ring by the collar of his suit jacket and Punk hoists him onto his shoulders. Punk drops Laurinaitis with the GTS and Madison Square Garden loves it. Punk leaves, still frustrated and we’re down to Cena and the Rock versus The Awesome Truth.
Cena runs in and drops The Miz with a Throwback and a Protobomb before throwing a series of Shoulderblocks, the third of which puts Miz in position for the Five-Knuckle Shuffle. Cena taunts Truth with the “You Can’t See Me” wave and sets up for the FU. Truth makes a blind tag and Miz counters out in time for Truth to connect with Little Jimmy’s Finale and make the cover and the three count. John Cena has been eliminated.

The Rock is now all alone against The Awesome Truth. Truth and Rock exchange blows for several minutes, before Truth jams a thumb into Rocky’s eye. Truth lines up for Little Jimmy, but The Rock grabs the top rope for leverage, sending Truth crashing to the mat. The Rock gears up, waiting for Truth to get back to his feet and drops him with The Rock Bottom. The Rock picks up a three count eliminating R-Truth and it’s down to The Rock and The Miz. Miz jumps The Rock from behind, setting up for the Skull-Crushing Finale, but Rock drops to his knees sending The Miz rolling. Miz charges directly into a Spinebuster. The Rock hits the People’s Elbow and picks up the three count to end the match.

Winner and Sole Survivor: The Rock

The Rock celebrates his victory, going to all corners with fist in the air before The Miz yanks him off of the turnbuckles leading to a 2-on-1 beatdown by The Awesome Truth. John Cena runs back in to fight off the assault. Cena hits an FU on Truth while The Rock drops Miz with a Rock Bottom, sending both men retreating up the entrance ramp.

It’s at this time, that Wade Barrett sends the Nexus down from the luxury box, through the crowd and over the barricade. Nexus surrounds the ring, climb onto the apron and step into the ring, surrounding The Rock and John Cena. Cena and The Rock stand back-to-back prepared to fight off the barrage.

Just as it seems that The Rock and John Cena will end up on the business end of a 9-on-2 mugging, Cena steps aside, taking the spot next to Wade Barrett and fully encircling The Rock. Cena stands directly in front of The Rock, stonefaced. Without warning, Cena throws The Rock a People’s Eyebrow, cueing the rest of Nexus to attack. Unbelievable. Cena stands back and watches the carnage as the new partner in leadership of The Nexus!

All members of The Nexus beat the Rock down with their respective finishers, ending with a Barrett Wasteland and Gabriel’s 450 Splash. After the damage has been done, Cena steps in to direct traffic, sending The Nexus to the back. Cena now turns his attention to The Rock and the assault continues.

Cena grabs his old lock and chain and bashes The Rock in the face as he returns to his feet. Cena jumps back to the outside to take hold of a steel chair and strikes The Rock no fewer than 20 times. Cena retrieves a garbage can from under the ring and does the unthinkable. Taking his trucker cap, his “Rise Above Hate” tee and the corresponding arm and wrist bands, Cena tosses all into the can and burns it before flipping off the crowd.

From his jorts pocket, Cena produces a set of handcuffs and restrains The Rock. Cena drags the steel ring steps into the ring and proceeds to drop The Rock with an FU across the stairs. Still handcuffed, The Rock is locked in the STFU as Cena forces his Wrestlemania opponent to pass out. EMTs rush to the ring to help The Rock onto a stretcher. Cena continues to mock both The Rock and the crowd, climbing the turnbuckle to mimic The Rock’s fist raised pose. The fans have started raining down garbage upon the ring.

Officials begin wheeling The Rock on the stretcher up the entrance ramp, but Cena decides he’s not finished. Cena runs up the ramp and chases off the technicians, leaving the prone Rock alone on the stretcher. Cena glares one last time at the crowd before forcibly wheeling The Rock’s stretcher off the stage and into the electrical equipment below. Sparks fly and equipment wires are strewn everywhere as the Rock lies motionless, still strapped to the stretcher. Cena asks for a mic and Wade Barrett is waiting on the ramp to give him one. Cena tells the crowd that he’s done with all of them and tells The Rock “Now you have a reason for disappearing until Wrestlemania.” Cena slams down the mic and walks off with Barrett and the remaining Nexus members to end the show.
　
　
　

WWE Survivor Series Fantasy Card PPV Results 11/20/11 Pt. 4

Mark Henry v. The Big Show for the World Heavyweight Championship

Mark Henry enters first to his never before used theme "The Wall" followed by The Big Show. Match opens with formal ring intros and an intense staredown before a collar and elbow tie-up. Henry breaks the hold first, takes to the ropes and throws a body block and Show doesn't budge. Show takes to the rope himself and throws a shoulder block of his own with no effect. Both men then take to the ropes in opposite directions, but Show’s reaction time is slightly better and he throws a nasty spear, very nearly picking up the pinfall.

Henry quickly returns to his feet and exchanges a series of headbutts with The Big Show. A particularly gnarly headbutt opens up a gash over Henry’s left eye, which incenses The World’s Strongest Man who throw a series of three clotheslines that stagger Big Show, but fail to knock him off his feet. Henry summons the adrenaline from his injury to deliver a ring-rattling scoop powerslam. Henry follows up with a Jumping Elbow Drop and collects a 2 1/2 count. Henry disputes the count with the ref while Show recuperates. Show recovers and drops Henry with a Sidewalk Slam and heads to the top rope.

A rumbling Madison Square Garden rattles the rafters with a “Randy Savage” chant as Show leaps from the top and delivers the most devastating Diving Elbow Drop scored to date. Show goes for the cover, but Henry gets his foot on the bottom rope. Show locks on a Dragon Sleeper and connects with The Final Cut for another two count. Show tries again, this time with the Showstopper Leg Drop for another two.

Growing impatient, Show cinches in The Colossal Clutch in an attempt to get the World’s Strongest Man to tap out. Henry struggles and writhes to break the hold before finally marching on his elbows to the bottom rope to force the break of the hold. Big Show sits back, perplexed as to what it will take to dispatch of the World Champion. Show locks in an Abodominal Stretch, but after several minutes of struggling, Henry finds it in himself to break the hold with an incredible hip toss.

Show digs into his arsenal and tosses Henry to the buckle, delivering five overhand chops before letting Henry stagger out of the corner and into a Cobra Clutch Backbreaker. Show signals for a chokeslam and gets his hand around Henry’s throat. Upon the lift, Henry escapes the grip, whips Show to the corner and crushes him with a Body Avalanche.

As Show leaves the corner, Henry demonstrates incredible strength, hoisting the World’s Largest Athlete over his head and dropping him with a Military Press Slam. As Show crawls to the middle rope, the relentless Henry continues his barrage with a Leapfrog Guillotine, landing on his feet on the outside. The World Champion crawls back into the ring and delivers a Running Splash to a prone Big Show. Henry slashes his throat to signal the end and scales to the middle rope for a Slingshot Splash and connects. Somehow, Big Show escapes the pinfall at the last possible second and for Henry, frustration has given way to disbelief.

Show regains his feet and begins tossing a flurry of body blows before taking hold for another chokeslam. This time, Show is successful in his attempt and Henry’s impact rattles the canvas. Show begins to rage and balls up his fist. Just as Henry had done earlier, Show hoists the World Champion over his head Gorilla Press style before dropping Henry directly into the path of Show’s waiting WMD. Henry crumbles to the mat and the World Title is almost certain to change hands. Out of nowhere, Heath Slater, Justin Gabriel and Michael McGillicutty jump the barricade and hop onto the ring apron, creating the distraction for the referee and the opening for Ezekiel Jackson and Mason Ryan to jump the barricade on the other end of the ring.

Jackson and Ryan collaborate on a double chokeslam of their own and jump back through the crowd. The trio on the other end leave the ringside area without a fight just as Henry is getting back to his feet. The World Champion climbs to the top rope and delivers and UNBELIEVABLE moonsault before lifting Big Show clean off the canvas and dropping him with The World’s Strongest Slam for the three count.

Winner and STILL World Heavyweight Champion: Mark Henry

Henry celebrates his successful title defense after the match, but the lights go down shortly thereafter and it begins raining in the arena. As the rain clears, A man driving a tram comes down the entrance ramp. As the tram approaches, we see that the driver is Paul Bearer and that the vehicle is carrying the immobile body of The Undertaker, just as we left him at Wrestlemania. Bearer holds the urn up to the light and a bolt of lightning passes through it, knocking it out of Bearer’s hands and striking the tram; causing it to burst into flames with The Undertaker still aboard.

Dumbstruck by what he is witnessing, Henry watches as the tram burns. As the smoke and fire begin to clear, “Ain’t No Grave” begins to play and a rejuvenated Undertaker stands on the charred tram before him, motionless. Distracted by this phenomena, Henry fails to witness DANIEL BRYAN approaching from behind. Bryan springboards from the top rope and delivers a missile dropkick to the back of Henry’s head. In this time, The Big Show has also regained his bearings. Show clocks Henry with another WMD and the World Champion drops like a stone. Big Show leaves the ring, frustrated that he came up short.

The lights come back up and The Undertaker has vanished. Daniel Bryan goes to the ringside area and grabs his Money In The Bank Briefcase, handing it to Charles Robinson. Robinson gives word to Justin Roberts, Roberts makes the announcement that Daniel Bryan is cashing in his MITB briefcase and the crowd ERUPTS. Henry staggers back to his feet and the ref signals for the bell to ring.

Mark Henry v. Daniel Bryan for the World Heavyweight Championship
A groggy Henry falls quick victim to a Running Leg Lariat that brings him to his knees. Bryan throws a series of six roundhouse kicks to Henry’s torso and shoulders before winding up and planting the seventh squarely into the World Champion’s right temple. Daniel Bryan locks in the crossface to a defenseless Mark Henry and with very little persuasion, an exhausted Henry taps out and the Madison Square Garden crowd comes ABSOLUTELY UNGLUED.

Winner and NEW World Heavyweight Champion: Daniel Bryan

An understandably ecstatic Daniel Bryan stage dives into the crowd and begins body surfing those in attendance. After ten minutes of making the rounds around the arena, Bryan returns to the ring and is finally awarded the belt. Bryan climbs up on the barricade and holds the title high for all fans to rejoice in. The new World Champion receives congratulations from every member of the broadcast table and makes his way back up the entrance ramp. Daniel Bryan is your NEW WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION.

Kevin Nash backstage being interrogated by his teammates. Nash tries to reason with them, telling them that Wade Barrett is clearly trying to stir the pot and make everyone paranoid. Nash insists that he has nothing now nor ever to do with Wade Barrett or the Nexus. Christian discusses Nash’s history with both Triple H and his history of forming renegade factions. Miz chimes in saying that he has reason to suspect that a former Outsider is more than capable of an inside job. Nash’s teammates wander off. R-Truth leaves with a few parting words, saying that if it’s one thing he can’t stand, it’s being okey-doked by a conspiracy...

Another PPV Promo is run announcing that The 40-Man Royal Rumble is 10 Weeks Away.

Randy Orton cuts a backstage promo talking about how this year's upcoming Royal Rumble takes place in his hometown of St. Louis and makes the observation for the last five years, the superstar who won the match has failed to win the title at Wrestlemania. Orton says rest assured if he enters the Rumble match this year that that statistic will change.

WWE Survivor Series PPV Fantasy Card Results 11/20/11 Pt. 3

Traditional Survivor Series 5-on-5 Elim. Tag Match: Team Gabriel v. Team Slater

This match disintegrated into bedlam quickly. Jey Uso and Jinder Mahal start. Mahal attempts to lock in a full nelson slam, but Uso counters out and connects with a thrust kick to the midsection and a Superkick. Jey tags to Jimmy and both hit top rope splashes to dispatch of Jinder Mahal.

Michael McGillicutty rushes in and floors Jimmy Uso with a McGillicutter for a quick three. With the count now even, Jey Uso connects with an Alley-Us Samoan Drop but two men in streets jump the barricade and begin beating down Jey Uso, drawing a disqualification of McGillicutty.

A closer look reveals it to be the returning Skip Sheffield and Husky Harris. Sheffield clobbers Jey Uso with a Lariat while Harris follows up with his Senton Splash. With McGillicutty disqualified, JTG enters the battle and logs a three count on Jey Uso.

JTG goes to celebrate the victory with Slater, McGillicutty and Otunga, only to realize that all three have stepped down off of the apron. JTG looks to the other corner and sees that Justin Gabriel, Mason Ryan, Ezekiel Jackson and the two intruders have stepped off the apron and slid out of the ring. Slowly but surely, all eight men mark their positions and surround the ring. All at once, they slide into the ring and form a circle around JTG and it’s all too obvious what has transpired. This match was a set up from the beginning to make a statement. And so, the savage 8-on-1 beatdown begins.

Result: No Contest

Slater hits Sweetness, Otunga drops JTG with a spinebuster, McGillicutty hits his Rolling Cutter, Sheffield nearly decapitates JTG with another Lariat while Harris crushes his sternum with another Senton Splash. Mason Ryan and Ezekiel Jackson stun the former member of Cryme Tyme with a Double Chokeslam. Moments later, Wade Barrett enters the ring, all but solidifying what he was saying earlier. Jackson helps a limp JTG back to his feet and hoists him onto Barrett’s shoulders with a Military Press. Barrett plants JTG with Wasteland and Justin Gabriel leaps to the top rope, contemplates life for two to three minutes and executes a flawless 450 Splash.

Barrett grabs the mic and reintroduces himself as a partner in leadership of the newly re-formed NEXUS. Barrett warns that indeed someone in the main event is planning on betraying his teammates tonight, and aligning himself as co-leader of the Nexus. Barrett promises that under this new form of leadership, Nexus will be more militant, more destructive and more dangerous than ever before. The group of nine stand in the ring, defiantly raising one fist in solidarity.

A knock at Triple H’s dressing room door. Triple H invites them in and its Shawn Michaels with Sean Waltman. After exchanging pleasantries, Michaels and Waltman get down to business and Michaels tells Hunter that he knows him too well to not know what he’s planning tonight and begs him not to go through with it. Waltman tells The Game not to throw away a fifteen year friendship over a business matter. Triple H hesitates, then tells both that in seventeen years working for this company, he’s come to find out that nothing’s for certain; injuries, titles even friendships. He says he can damn well guarantee one thing though--Kevin Nash will not walk away from Survivor Series under his own power.

Elimination Tag Match: Team Phoenix (Beth Phoenix, Natalya, Tamina) v. Team Kelly (Kelly Kelly, Eve Torres, Alicia Fox)

Match gets underway as Natalya locks in a side headlock, eventually drifting into a Rear Naked Choke. Eve fights back out and executes a float over suplex for a two count. Natalya returns to her feet and walks directly into a single-leg drop kick. Eve lifts Natalya and drops her with a snap neckbreaker for two. Eve sets up for a Samoan Drop, unaware that Tamina has made a blind tag in the process. Eve prepares to execute a top rope Moonsault, but Phoenix drags Natalya out of the ring at the last minute, sending Eve crashing to the canvas. Capitalizing on a downed Eve, Tamina scales to the top and executes a crushing Superfly Splash and records the three count, eliminating Eve.

Immediately after the pinfall, Alicia Fox springboards over the top rope and leg drops Tamina across the neck. Waiting for Tamina to return to her feet, Alicia Fox connects with a nasty Scissors Kick and picks up the three count.

Alicia turns around and walks directly into a discus clothesline. Natalya drills Alicia into the mat with a Running Powerslam and locks in a sharpshooter. Alicia struggles valiantly for several moments before Natalya bridges and places an incredible amount of torque on the hold. Natalya drops directly to the mat, placing as much torque on the sharpshooter as possible. Unaware that her shoulders are on the mat, Natalya inadvertently pins herself in unison with Alicia Fox’ furious tapping and both are simultaneously eliminated.

Beth Phoenix and Kelly Kelly glare at each other from across the ring and charge from opposite corners. Kelly wins the initial showdown, taking down Phoenix with a Lou Thesz Press and reverting into “Psycho Bitch” mode with a flurry of fists.

Phoenix attempts a retreat, but Kelly hits a one-handed bulldog and repeatedly slams Beth’s face into the canvas. Kelly forces Phoenix back to her feet and slams her back to the mat with a sitout facebuster, but still only gets a two count. Beth finally regains her bearings and Irish whips Kelly into the ropes, but Kelly counters with a headscissors takedown for two. Kelly tries to keep momentum, but her kick is blocked and countered into an attempted Glam Slam. Kelly counters on the descent, however and gets another two count on a victory roll.

Phoenix gets back to her feet and swings wildly for a clothesline, but Kelly dodges, finally connecting with K2 and logs a three count.

Sole Survivor: Kelly Kelly

Kelly celebrates her victory over the Diva’s Champion, but the celebration is short-lived as senior referee Mike Chioda comes down the entrance ramp to consult with Chad Patton, replaying the tape and concluding that the pinfall is null and void as Beth Phoenix had her foot underneath the bottom rope. Chioda orders the match be restarted.

Kelly tries to reason with the referee staff, but the bell has already rung. Disappointed but determined, Kelly whips Beth with all of her strength into the corner. Kelly follows up with a Handspring Back Elbow, but gets captured in the corner. Beth Phoenix ascends the turnbuckle with Kelly in tow, until standing atop the top turnbuckle, and delivers the most devastating Glam Slam possible from the top to the mat. Beth Phoenix picks up the three count and the win.

Sole Survivor: Beth Phoenix

Natalya and Tamina return to the ring to congratulate Beth Phoenix, but they’re not through just yet. Taking the unconscious Kelly, Phoenix applies Pin-Up Strong and has to be stopped by WWE officials and road agents. Kelly does a stretcher job and the Divas of Doom stand victorious.

Backstage and CM Punk is being interrogated by his teammates as it concerns his loyalties to the team effort tonight. Punk tells Cena, Sheamus and The Rock that he has far better, far more entertaining things to do than sabotage the team’s efforts for the fun of it. Punk reminds them that he already commandeered the Nexus and moved on to bigger and better things. Despite his insistence, Cena, the Rock and Sheamus all walk away skeptical of whom they suspect to be the sketchiest member of their team.

Backstage with Scott Stanford and Awesome Truth. Stanford asks if they have any thoughts regarding tonight’s main event or the rumors of new management of the Nexus that Wade Barrett is circulating. Miz and Truth both glare at Stanford and storm off without a word.

A video package runs recapping the highlights of the Mark Henry-Big Show feud and turns focus to tonight’s World Heavyweight Championship Match.

WWE Survivor Series Fantasy PPV Results 11/20/11 Pt. 2

-Backstage with Scott Stanford and John Cena. Stanford asks Cena if he'll be able to put recent tensions with The Rock aside to help their Survivor Series team coexist tonight. Cena recaps his role in last year's Survivor Series where he was up against a wall between giving the title to Wade Barrett or getting fired. Cena tells Stanford that he'll do as he did last year and do the right thing for the greater good. Typical Cena fodder here.

-Back to the ring with Justin Roberts who introduces Michael Cole's replacement at the broadcast desk, New York City's own Matt Striker. Striker returns to the broadcast desk to a respectable hometown ovation and emphasizes his excitement to return to calling the action.

-The United States Champion enters, understandably without Vickie Guerrero and explains that due in large part to his actions earlier this evening and by order of Interim RAW GM John Laurinaitis that the match with Zack Ryder has now been changed into a No Disqualification Match. Ziggler says that this is fine with him and that the stipulation plays to his advantage given Ryder's current condition. Ziggler gives Ryder sixty seconds to answer his challenge, knowing full well that Ryder won’t make it to the ring in time. A cascade of boos rains down from the crowd and deafening chants of “We Want Ryder” fill the Manhattan arena. Ziggler begins to count down from ten and Ryder’s music cues up at 2. A visibly wounded Ryder limps down to ringside behind INCREDIBLE fan support.

Dolph Ziggler v. Zack Ryder-No DQ Match for the United States Championship

Ziggler continues his beatdown before the bell as Ryder attempts to crawl into the ring. Ryder whipped to the turnbuckle with force as Dolph continues showing off. Ziggler mocks Ryder with his “L.I.” hand signal as he waits for him to get back to his feet. Ziggler blasts Ryder with a Superkick. Ryder is clearly beaten, but the champion isn’t satisfied with just beating his opponent on this night.

Dolph slaps on the Sleeper. Ryder refuses to quit, eventually fighting out of the hold, sending Ziggler crashing into the turnpost. A groggy Ryder throws a Broski Boot, knocking Ziggler senseless, but the effort takes too much out of Ryder and he can’t capitalize with a cover. The champion eventually regains his bearings and resumes his assault on the challenger.

Ziggler hits a Neck Snap and follows up with a Leaping Elbow Drop for a two count. Ziggler locks the downed Ryder into a side headlock and executes a headstand bridge for extra torque. The champion releases the hold when he decides that he’s still not satisfied.

The champion helps Ryder back to his feet and promptly drops him with a Fame Asser but only gets two. Somehow Ryder still has something left in the tank. Ryder struggles back to his feet, and Ziggler attempts the ZigZag but Ryder grabs the top rope for leverage and responds with the Rough Ryder. Ziggler kicks out at two, and the challenger is stunned.

At a loss, Ryder quickly falls victim to the ZigZag. An infuriated Ziggler wants to finish Ryder for good, so the champion retreats to the outside and grabs a steel chair. Ziggler proceeds to strike Ryder no fewer than a dozen times before throwing the chair down in disgust. Ziggler grabs another chair and prepares to swing, but the chair is caught in the backswing by Randy Orton. Orton takes the chair away and jams the chair three times into Ziggler’s midsection before blasting him over the head with it. With Ziggler down, Orton unfolds the chair and sets it down in the middle of the ring. The viper helps the champion back to his feet before dropping his face through the seat of the chair with a catastrophic RKO. Orton helps Ryder back to his feet and helps direct traffic. Zack connects with The Zack Attack to Ziggler’s injured neck and picks up the three.

Winner and NEW United States Champion: Zack Ryder

-Orton walks back up the entrance ramp, stopping to look over his shoulder to admire his retribution. A battered Ryder celebrates with the New York City faithful and several “Broskis” who helped sign his Twittition.

-Backstage with Theodore Long and Aksana in what looks to be another wasted segment until Mark Henry enters the room and tells Aksana to get lost. Henry tells Long that he’ll agree to defend the World Heavyweight Championship against The Big Show on the condition that it be The World’s Largest Athlete’s last chance at the gold. Teddy Long tells Mark that if he has it in him to put The Big Show away decisively tonight, he won’t have to worry about him challenging again anyway. Mark Henry tells Long to count on it, then leaves the office shaking his head.

-Alberto Del Rio backstage with Christian discussing the main event tonight and officially calling truce to the business that they had with each other earlier in the year. Edge disrupts the conversation and tells Christian that since he had a hard time getting the title back from Orton and got utterly crushed in his attempt to take the title from Mark Henry, that trying to take the title from the Big Show will be next to impossible. The Rated-R Superstar tells Christian to please, for the sake of everyone, STOP ASKING FOR ONE MORE MATCH and closes by acknowledging Del Rio with an “Oh, Hey Champ” before slapping the taste out of his mouth and walking off.

-Back in the ring with Hunico, Epico and Primo who have issued an impromptu challenge to Sin Cara to find two tag team partners to compete in an elimination match tonight. Sin Cara shows up on the entrance ramp and waits as ALEX RILEY’s theme music hits to an huge ovation. The ramp bursts into flames as KANE makes his return to the ring as well. The trio in the ring quickly realize that they may have stepped into something.

Elimination Tag Match: Sin Cara, Alex Riley, and Kane v. Los Aviadores

Realizing they have nothing to lose, all three attack Kane with a combination Codebreaker, Backstabber and Swanton Bomb but can only come up with a two count. Kane gets back to his feet and cleans house on all three before tagging to Riley.

Epico charges in and connects with a Tilt-A-Whirl DDT but only logs two. Epico sets up for another Codebreaker, but Riley catches Epico on the fly and counters into a resounding spinebuster. A-Ry connects with a Riley Elevation DDT and drops Epico with the A-Bomb before tagging to Sin Cara. The luchador leaps into the ring with a springboard senton bomb before rebounding with a lionsault and collecting the three count.

Primo rushes in to follow up throwing a flurry of mounted punches to a downed Sin Cara and grabbing a leg to prevent a tag. Cara responds with an enziguri and quickly tags to Kane. Primo tries to back out quickly, but Kane captures and Chokeslams him through the canvas. Kane helps Primo back to his feet and appears to set up for another chokeslam, but instead lifts Primo to the top turnbuckle and tags to Sin Cara. Cara leapfrogs to the top rope and drops Primo with a Moonsault Side Slam from the top rope for the three count.

All alone, Hunico goes for broke and charges Sin Cara but instantly falls victim to a La Mistica Fujiwara Armbar and is forced to tap out.

Survivors: Sin Cara, Alex Riley and Kane

Wade Barrett backstage with Jack Korpela. Barrett comments on his earlier victory saying that tonight begins a changing of the guard and that the winds of change are blowing in WWE. He says the Barrett Barrage will not stop until the World Heavyweight Championship falls into his hands, but that for the time being, all of that is secondary. Barrett alludes that he has it on good authority based on loud locker room chatter that a certain superstar involved in tonight’s main event is working as a double agent and intends to sabotage their team before the night is over. Barrett insists that he has no idea who the culprit is, but says he’s certain that they’ll display their true colors tonight.

A promo is run for next month’s TLC Pay-Per-View

A mysterious promo is run that features only the phrase "It Begins--January 2."

WWE Survivor Series PPV Fantasy Card Results 11/20/11 Pt. 1

-WWE's 2011 Survivor Series pay-per-view opens with a commemorative video package celebrating historic moments at Survivor Series in its 25-year history, with highlights including the debut of The Undertaker, The Montreal Screwjob, The Fall of the Alliance, The First Elimination Chamber Match and Cena’s reluctant three-count on Wade Barrett. The package concludes with a frame-by-frame profile of each of the participants in tonight’s main event elimination tag match teasing that one or more of them will leave their mark on Survivor Series history tonight.

-And we’re live from Madison Square Garden as Jim Ross, at the request of Interim RAW GM, joins the broadcast table and welcomes us to the 25th Anniversary of Survivor Series. In celebration of this monumental occasion, WWE has customized a broadcast booth to house ALL FIVE commentators to call the action tonight.

Traditional Survivor Series 5-on-5 Elim. Tag Match: Team Orton v. Team Barrett

We go to the ring and Team Orton enters first, with John Morrison leading the way, followed by the Tag Team Champions, Air Boom, then Ted DiBiase before Randy Orton rounds up the troops at ringside.

Vickie Guerrero enters to “Excuse Me” and the usual cascade of boos before announcing that as a “Survivor Series Special” she has extended her clientele to another member of tonight’s elimination tag match. With that she introduces Jack Swagger and her newest client, Drew McIntyre. Cody Rhodes enters next before Tyson Kidd enters accompanied by Captain Barrett.

Barrett tries to formulate a strategy of attack on the entrance ramp before sending Swagger, Kidd and McIntyre forth. As the trio approaches the ring apron, they are promptly met by the trio of Morrison and Air Boom nailing a Triple Plancha before the match can even start. Chaos ensues with Barrett and Rhodes charging into the ring, only for Rhodes to be met with a clothesline by DiBiase that sends him over the top rope to the floor. Barrett is nearly dropped with an RKO, but blocks and retreats to the outside. A standoff takes place before the referee restores order and we’re ready to start.

Cody Rhodes starts off with Evan Bourne. Bourne comes at Rhodes furiously with a frenzy of kick variations before concluding with a set of three frankensteiners that ends with Rhodes being dropped from his knees face first into the canvas. Bourne ascends the top rope for Air Bourne, but can’t capitalize quickly enough. Rhodes rolls out of the way and Bourne corrects his position to land on his feet. Bourne attempts a shiranui, but it’s far too easily countered into Cross Rhodes. Rhodes spikes Bourne head first into the mat to score the first elimination of the bout.

Ted DiBiase enters the contest. A traditional collar-and-elbow tie-up results in a solid flurry of chain wrestling. Cody tries an early pin attempt, but a re-energized DiBiase kicks out before the ref has a chance to log a 1-count. Rhodes maintains control with a headlock, but DiBiase tosses him off only to have Cody come off the ropes with a Goldust throat thrust. Cody follows up with a knee drop and a flying lariat as DiBiase gets back to his feet. Rhodes attempts a top-rope Moonsault and very impressively lands on his feet as DiBiase rolls out of the way. Cody regains his bearings and drops DiBiase with a Silver Spoon DDT.

Feeling indestructible, Rhodes begins to grandstand. Rhodes attempts to connect with the Beautiful Disaster, but DiBiase ducks out of the way and attempts a rebound clothesline of his own. Cody dodges and positions for Cross Rhodes, but before he can execute the hold, DiBiase counters BEAUTIFULLY into Dream Street and picks up the surprise three-count as Cody is eliminated. In disbelief, Cody argues the count with the referee before getting escorted away by officials.

This draws in Drew McIntyre, who blindsides DiBiase with a Big Boot. McIntyre helps DiBiase to his feet and attempts to put him away with The Scot Drop, but Ted grabs the top rope for leverage, sending Drew crashing to the mat and buying DiBiase time to tag to Kofi Kingston. Kofi enters with a Springboard Body Press and records a two-count before McIntyre scrambles to the corner to tag in Jack Swagger. Taking a page from McIntyre’s book, Swagger plants a boot directly in Kofi’s face before applying a waistlock in an attempt for a German suplex, only to have Kofi counter into a victory roll and another two count.

Swagger rises to his feet and walks into a springboard back elbow. Swagger rises again and is dropped with a double Mongolian Chop. Swagger gets up a third time and is monkey flipped to the other end of the ring. Infuriated, Swagger retreats to the outside for a pow-wow with Barrett and company. Kofi waits casually in the corner as Swagger returns to the ring. The two-time All-American charges the corner and walks directly into a Pendulum Kick and Kofi ascends the ropes as Swagger stumbles out of the corner. Kingston attempts a high-flying Body Press but is captured mid-dive. As Swagger attempts to capitalize, Kofi rolls through into a Steamboat-style roll-up for two-and-a-half. Kingston drops Swagger with S.O.S. but can only get a two-count also. As Kofi readies for the Boom Drop, Swagger has it scouted and captures Kingston with an Ankle Lock on the descent. Kofi struggles at first, then counters with a back foot enziguri that pushes Swagger into the corner. Kofi gingerly charges on the sore ankle and lands a Koronco Buster. But on the roll-down, Kofi is caught in perfect position for a Swagger Gutwrench Powerbomb. Swagger covers the flattened Kingston for the elimination.

DiBiase re-enters and Swagger tags to McIntyre, who quickly catches a flying High Knee to the face. DiBiase follows up with a Million $ Fist Drop and an elevated spinebuster for two. DiBiase goes to lock in Dream Street again but Cody Rhodes re-enters the match and drops DiBiase with Cross Rhodes. As officials escort Rhodes to the exit AGAIN, this opens the door enough for McIntyre to drop Ted with a Hangman’s neckbreaker and FutureShock for the next elimination.

Enter Randy Orton. Orton trades holds briefly with McIntyre before Drew gains the upper hand and drops the Viper with a Jumping Arm Breaker. Priming for the kill, McIntyre preps to deliver another FutureShock DDT, getting Orton into position. Orton stealthily escapes the hold and counters with a devastating RKO. Orton tags to Morrison who immediately scales the ropes and delivers Starship Pain to log the three count and earn the elimination.

Barrett finally enters the match and jumps Morrison from behind, delivering a Spinning Side Slam for a two count. The captain attempts a Diving Elbow Smash, but Morrison rolls out of the way. Morrison takes advantage of a downed Barrett by throwing a knee into his face, but only gets two. A standing shooting star press gets two and a half, but still not enough. Morrison attempts a Moonsault Side Slam, but Barrett throws elbows to counter out and set up for Wasteland. Morrison wriggles free and sets up for a Flying Chuck, but Barrett ducks, throws a mule kick to Morrison’s midsection and tags to Swagger.

Swagger capitalizes with a running knee lift before cinching in an abdominal stretch. Morrison expends most of his energy escaping the hold and sets up for Moonlight Drive, but it’s easily countered into a back suplex. Swagger attempts a Swagger Bomb in the corner, but Morrison gets the knees up. Morrison attempts another Starship Pain, but discovers that his ribs won’t support the move. Morrison instead attempts a Nitro Blast Superkick, but is caught upon delivery and placed in Swagger’s Ankle Lock. Morrison struggles valiantly for several minutes before Swagger applies a leg grapevine and simply has no other option but to tap out.

With Orton all alone, Swagger first approaches, then decides against it, instead tagging in Tyson Kidd. Kidd springboards from the top rope and lands directly into and RKO for a quick three count.

Swagger charges, but Orton meets him first with a Snap Scoop Powerslam for two. Orton throws a European Uppercut and follows with a Lou Thesz Press before executing an Orton Stomp and punctuating with a thunderous knee drop. Orton hits the inverted backbreaker and drapes a wounded Swagger over the middle rope before dropping him with a vicious Viper DDT. Orton moves in for the kill and plants Swagger with the third RKO of the evening for the elimination.

A livid Vickie Guerrero storms into the ring and begins shoving Orton, much to his disbelief. Vickie continues to berate Orton, poking him in the chest before finally slapping him across the face. Swagger returns to his feet and punches the ref’s lights out for logging the pinfall. Swagger gets back in Orton’s face and Orton reciprocates with another RKO to Swagger, Vickie attempts to leave the ring, but Orton grabs her by the back of her head. Orton shrugs off her prior abuses and drives Vickie to the mat with yet another RKO that absolutely UNGLUES Madison Square Garden. People are on their feet applauding Orton. As the smoke clears, the wheels begin to turn and Orton gets that sick smile on his face. Orton backs into the opposite corner and delivers the most devastating punt possible to Vickie Guerrero and the roof has come off of the arena. A “THANK YOU RANDY” chant erupts from the crowd.
Vickie does a stretcher job, and as Orton looks on, DOLPH ZIGGLER emerges through the crowd and slams Orton neck first into the canvas with a Zig Zag. As the referee comes to, Wade Barrett, who has been laying low since his tangle with Morrison, picks up the scraps of a prone Orton, dropping him with Wasteland to log the final three count.

SOLE SURVIVOR: Wade Barrett

-Barrett leaves the ring victorious while Ziggler admires his handiwork and runs back up the ramp to tend to Vickie while a furious Orton regains his composure, seething in the ring.

-Zack Ryder is seen backstage, fiddling with his flip camera, chatting up random expendable divas and excitedly announcing that he got enough signatures on his Twittition to have John Laurinaitis grant him the match he so desperately wanted, a United States Championship rematch with Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler jumps Ryder from behind, savagely beating on the Long Island Iced Z with every weapon within reach before finally throwing Ryder through both the catering table and a plate glass window. Ziggler approaches the downed Ryder and tells him that when it comes to the United States Championship, “I’m DEAD SERIOUS, BRO...”

-Michael Cole, in a desperate attempt for any last attention he can get, climbs up on the announce table and asks for the crowds attention. BOO, YOU SUCK...you know the routine by now. Cole ends up in the ring and just when no one in attendance can take anymore, Cole is interrupted by STEPHANIE MCMAHON. The Billion-Dollar Princess informs Michael Cole that the McMahon family has become exceedingly disappointed in Cole’s job performance as of late. Steph even produces the paperwork from the Nielsen Ratings that indicate that it’s not only the broadcast desk that has grown fatigued of Michael Cole, but the audience at home as well. In fact, every segment that Cole was featured prominently in over the last eight months has tested as the segment that has lost the most viewers on a weekly basis. Mrs. McMahon tells Cole that he has one last chance to salvage his career, in a match, or else he will be fired on the spot. Stephanie tells him to get ready because his match is next and it’s against DANIEL BRYAN.

Daniel Bryan v. Michael Cole (Michael Cole’s career is on the line)

Daniel Bryan, who has been waiting for this moment since his days on NXT, stalks Cole methodically. Cole backs himself into a corner, drops to his knees and begins begging Bryan to spare him his career. Bryan isn’t having any of it though, as he begins throwing roundhouse kicks to Cole’s ribs. Numb with pain, Cole is helpless as Bryan throws a crushing final kick to Cole’s temple. Cole crumples to the mat and is promptly locked into Cattle Mutilation and the referee has no option but to stop the match as Cole is unconscious.

Winner: Daniel Bryan

-Cole is helped back to his feet by officials so as he can be told in person by Stephanie McMahon that he has been FIRED. Cole is escorted out of the arena as the crowd serenades him.

NFL Midseason Report Card

Yes. I am well aware that midseason was technically two weeks ago. However, I was content to withhold assessment until after all 32 teams had completed their bye week, which I presumed would have been this past Sunday. As it happens, the NFL decided to create an erratic bye week schedule, creating a one week gap between the final four teams to get a bye and the rest of the league. With that said, I present my perspective on the standings of each individual team entering Week 11:

1. Green Bay Packers (9-0): Advice to Aaron Rodgers--Stay humble, stay focused and most importantly, stay healthy. The Packers look close to unstoppable at this point, but the defense is FAR from indestructible. The moment this team lets their guard down, should Rodgers succumb to injury (perhaps another concussion), losses will begin to seep through the gate. The Packers can't afford that with The 49ers nipping at their heels in the NFC Playoff race, not to mention the fierce competition in their own division. Grade: A+

2. San Francisco 49ers (8-1): A win over the Cardinals on Sunday plus a loss by the Seahawks can lock up the woeful West, but while San Fran is riding a seven-game winning streak, close contests with Cleveland and Washington and a less-than-productive victory over the Bengals raises questions about what they can accomplish in January. Grade: A-

3. Houston Texans (7-3): Unexpected to say the least. Houston is on its way to its first playoff appearance since they were the Oilers. The issue now becomes, with Matt Leinart now at the helm for an ailing Matt Schaub in addition to the absences of Mario Williams and Andre Johnson, how long can the Texans continue to defy the odds? A week off should give these guys time to recover. Their losses raise eyebrows, though. Oakland and Baltimore are both real possiblities in the postseason and should they somehow make it to February, Drew Brees and the Saints could also be waiting. Grade: B

4. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-3): Being swept by The Ravens hurts badly, but for the moment, the Steelers are in control. The other loss came against a team that could very well jeopardize Homefield Advantage for the Steel City; Houston. The rest of the schedule looks manageable, but the return match with Cincinnati and an upcoming contest with San Francisco are cause for concern. In a week AFC West, the unpredictable Chiefs could also add wrinkles to the schedule. Grade: B

5. New Orleans Saints (7-3): The Saints escaped on Sunday. Period. Drew Brees and the Saints can't afford to play this sloppily coming off their bye week with games against the Giants, Lions, Titans (who are still very much alive in the AFC South) and a rematch with the Falcons on the horizon. Grade: B

6. New England Patriots (6-3): Despite the fact that they haven't returned to the Super Bowl since the year of 18-1, Tom Brady and company refuse to go away. The winning percentage of their remaining opponents suggests that the Pats should be a shoe-in for the postseason, but Belichick should remain on high alert. This is the time of year that some of the craziest, most unlikely phenomena occur. All three losses came against potential postseason adversaries; two lead their division. The other, Buffalo, isn't far out of the race. Grade: B-

7. Chicago Bears (6-3): For those of us who thought the NFC North had narrowed to a two-team race (myself included), apparently the Bears didn't get the memo. Even I sat up and took notice when Jay Cutler was benched Sunday...with the Bears ahead. Grade: B-

8. Baltimore Ravens (6-3): Joe Flacco's crew currently owns the #5 spot in the AFC bracket, but losses to the likes of Tennessee, Seattle and Jacksonville as well as a last minute save against Arizona are causes for great concern. Four of the Ravens' next seven games are against teams that could conceivably win their respective divisions. Can they get the job done? Grade: B-

9. New York Giants (6-3): They lead their division, but what's their identity? Who can we expect in the event that they make it to the postseason? Should we expect the team that looked like world beaters when they knocked off the Patriots at Foxboro? Or might we look for the team that lost their games by a two-score margin to the Redskins and Seahawks and struggled to top the Cardinals and Dolphins in the last minute? Easily the worst schedule down the stretch, games against the Jets, Saints, Packers, two against the Cowboys and even next Sunday against the Eagles won't allow for sloppy play. Grade: B-

10. Cincinnati Bengals (6-3): The Bengals have played admirably this season. They've been in every game that they've played. This is especially remarkable considering the rookie combination of Andy Dalton and A.J. Green. The next three games will be critical divisional contests with a shot at redemption versus the Steelers in Week 13. Cincy's playoffs hope hinge almost exclusively on how they perform in their doubleheader with Baltimore, the rematch with Pittsburgh and a later contest with Houston that could really test their mettle. Grade: B-

11. Detroit Lions (6-3): The Lions are finally starting to click after years of futility. Problem is that the three games they've lost have a real chance of cutting Detroit's playoff run short. Grade: B-

12. Oakland Raiders (5-4): Good News: The Raiders are part of one of the weaker divisions in the league, so the likelihood of winning the West is strong. Bad News: All three of their challengers are only a game behind and two of them own a tiebreaker over Silver and Black. Grade: C+

13. Dallas Cowboys (5-4): A vicious schedule ahead for the Giants really plays to the Cowboys' advantage. They're knocking on the door to the playoffs, but Romo's crippling inconsistency could turn an otherwise manageable docket into the furthest thing from a cakewalk. Grade: C+

14. Tennessee Titans (5-4): Don't sleep on Matt Hasselbeck just yet. It's just the Titans style to chase Houston all the way to Week 17, leaving the division up in the air until 2012. The next three weeks will tell alot about how the AFC South trends. Grade: C+

15. Atlanta Falcons (5-4): Why Mike Smith, Why? With the Saints going into their bye week, Atlanta had an opportunity to take the division lead away. If Atlanta doesn't come away with the NFC South, the coach will be answering for that one until next August. Half of their loss column came against division rivals. The other two are fighting for the NFC North. It's not time to hit the panic button yet, but a win against another playoff contender (aside from the Lions) won't hurt. Grade: C+

16. New York Jets (5-4): Rex Ryan's goal at this point is to win out and hope that the Patriots finish 11-5. That's asking alot. The season sweep could prove really costly down the stretch, but the remaining schedule looks favorable for a wild card spot. The road to recovery begins Thursday night against the Broncos. Grade: C+

17. Buffalo Bills (5-4): If the Bills can get back on the ball and put themselves into neck-and-neck position with the Patriots again, they own the tiebreaker going into Week 17. But teams like San Diego and the Jets could REALLY screw things up. Grade: C+

18. Denver Broncos (4-5): It's a good thing that the Dolphins, Chiefs and Raiders all played so poorly. Otherwise, the Broncos would be 1-8, Tim Tebow would be an afterthought (as he should be) and the AFC West would be a three-team discussion. That being said, Tebow is still a pathetic excuse for a quarterback. Grade: C-

19. San Diego Chargers (4-5): What happened? These guys were 4-1 a month ago. If Phillip Rivers can't get this derailed train back on track, it could be Norv Turner's final season in SD (one could only hope) Chicago won't be easy. Grade: C-

20. Kansas City Chiefs (4-5): The Chiefs are playing much better than they should be. An 0-3 start that featured an 89-10 differential through the first two weeks and injuries to Jamal Charles and now Matt Cassel, the Chiefs bounced back with a four game winning streak and even briefly shared the division lead...but Tyler Palko might be the final nail in KC's coffin for the season. Grade: C-

21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-5): Yet another team that took the division lead before the wheels fell off. Somewhere between being obliterated by San Francisco and a now three-game hangover that started with Chicago in London, the Bucs are on the bubble. You can't expect to get anywhere when you're only scoring 17 points per game. Grade: C-

22. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-6): If nothing else, Blaine Gabbert has something to build off of starting next season. Grade: D+

23. Seattle Seahawks (3-6): Surprising victories over Baltimore and the Giants aren't enough when you're in the bottom ten of every offensive category. Grade: D+

24. Arizona Cardinals (3-6): The Cards' injury report reads like a MASH unit. Arizona is barely breathing, but certainly must take some degree of satisfaction in knocking off the "Dream Team" last Sunday. Grade: D+

25. Cleveland Browns (3-6): They're still in the playoff race. Technically. If the Jaguars don't change that this week, the Bengals will next week. Grade: D+

26. Philadelphia Eagles (3-6): Wow. Where to start? Such high hopes met with equal disappointment. They can still turn it around and salvage their season, but they have left themselves ZERO room for error. Grade: D+

27. Washington Redskins (3-6): Mike Shanahan might want to contemplate a new team or retirement. Dana Snyder might want to contemplate resignation. The Redskins might want to contemplate the fact that they haven't made the postseason since 2007. Fail to the Redskins indeed. Grade: D+

28. Miami Dolphins (2-7): Two consecutive wins still isn't enough to overshadow the glaring 0-7 start. Particularly when neither team that they defeated is playing well enough to beat the Colts at this point. Grade: D-

29. St. Louis Rams (2-7): The two wins mean that Sam Bradford isn't on the hot seat yet, since Andrew Luck will doubtless go to the hapless Colts as an insurance policy for a deteriorating Peyton Manning. Grade: D-

30. Carolina Panthers (2-7): Welcome to the NFL, Cam Newton. Passing yards only count for so much when you're one of five teams mathematically eliminated from playoff contention before Thanksgiving. Grade: D-

31. Minnesota Vikings (2-7): It pains me to see how sharply Donovan McNabb has declined since the Eagles let him go. Christian Ponder? Get ready, kid. It's going to be rough sledding for a few seasons. Grade: D-

32. Indianapolis Colts (0-10): What do you say to a team that has gone 0-10 before they even got a break to catch their breath? Hang in there, guys...Andrew Luck is a mere six weeks away... Grade: F

Strap in NFL fans, December's going to be a wild spiral...

10 Superstars That Should Have Walked Out...And Stayed Out

We're about a month or so removed from the INCREDIBLY wise decision to remove Triple H from power and replace him with the infallible John Laurinaitis.

If you haven't figured out by now that I'm speaking ironically, this is NOT the article for you.

Nonetheless, the events that transpired in the weeks that followed had me reflecting pensively on the "no-confidence" vote and subsequent walk-out that put ol' Johnny Ace in control. I've been wondering if there were a few names in that crowd of fifty-five doubters that should have walked out and stayed out of the company for good. Lo and behold, I found a few that I would be more than happy to do without. So without further ado, I present the Troy Ruby "Get Lost" list:

10. Sin Cara No. 2 (A.k.a. Hunico)

-The Problem: Allow me to explain. Yes, the angle of "which Sin Cara is which?" can be entertaining for a short while (see Doink The Clown) and this one had potential. But somewhere between Booker T's inane ramblings about a black mark on one of the Sin Cara's boots, Michael Cole telling Josh Matthews to interview Sin Cara by asking "Where are you?" instead of "How are you?" and Hunico's character switching to the distinguishable black outfit in contrast with the fan favorite's blue attire, the angle was handled very poorly.

-Quick Fix and Replacement: The Mask vs. Mask match has since resolved the issue. Repackage, rename, reintroduce. The new angle with Epico and Primo is intriguing, but thus far is coming off as a lazier version of the Mexicools.

9. Yoshi Tatsu

-The Problem: His last relevant match was against Chris Jericho. On Superstars. And he lost. Yes, the man is talented, yes he has potential. But all of the war paint and Japanese power pop in the world won't change the fact that WWE isn't using him.

-The Quick Fix: The long awaited return of Brodus Clay. Bury him and cut your losses.

-The Replacement: Tajiri, Taka Michinoku, even Funaki would get more attention than Yoshi's been getting lately.

8. Ezekiel Jackson

-The Problem: Usually when Vince McMahon recruits a superstar who is too large to look comfortable working in the ring, he's had the great fortune of salvaging their career through exceptional mic and promo skills (see HOGAN) or a dynamic personality. Sadly, Big Zeke has neither. Give him A, Give him B, or give him the boot.

-The Quick Fix: This seems like an excellent choice for inductee into Mark Henry's Hall of Pain. Now THAT'S Domination.

-The Replacement: Slyck Wagner Brown. Trust me, the man has a PHENOMENAL personality and can actually work very well in the ring.

7. JTG

-The Problem: JTG has to be the luckiest man in the business. He's not over as a solo performer, he was barely over as a member of Cryme Tyme. He's not being used for anything beyond being Mason Ryan food, yet somehow he has survived every last budget cut that has come down the pike. How is he doing this?

-The Quick Fix: Nothing witty here. Big Show WMD to the face. The end.

-The Replacement: Jay Lethal. As Black Machismo. Can't think of a more fitting homage to one of the WWE's greatest of all time. Plus, Lethal actually has talent and charisma. Two things "Just Too Gangsta" never had.

6. Primo

-The Problem: Why? Do I really need to say anything? Primo hasn't been relevant since Carlito left (WWE dropped the ball on that one, by the way) A nice attempt to make Primo matter again by teaming him with Tito Colon (Epico) and Hunico, but anyone who's seen this kind of thing before knows that this faction will go absolutely nowhere.

-The Quick Fix: Have Hunico and Epico hit the skids, then blame Primo for their shortcomings. A luchador-style 2-on-1 beatdown should do the trick.

-The Replacement: Cheech Hernandez. The man has more character and works the crowd MILES better than Primo, plain and simple. Besides, he's a better fit for Epico and Hunico anyhow.

5. The Great Khali

-The Problem: The man has two speeds: slow and injured. Do away with him. NOW. Since 2006, it has been painfully obvious that he couldn't work beyond terrorizing The Undertaker and Kane because he was bigger. To think someone thought putting the World Championship on him was a good idea.

-The Quick Fix: Is right there in front of them. Khali is injured now. Pay him to stay home for the remainder of his contract and cut ties immediately if not sooner.

-The Replacement: Brodie Lee. Easily one of the best (if not the best) superstars in Dragon Gate USA. All the size of Khali with ten times the agility and in-ring skill.

4. Two Thirds of the Diva's Division:

-The Problem: is self-explanatory. Kelly Kelly, Eve Torres, The Bella Twins, Rosa Mendes, Aksana, A.J. and Kaitlyn. They're all just awful. None of them have the skill to have any place in WWE beyond the ringside area. The likes of Beth Phoenix, Natalya, Tamina and Kharma have proven that they have both the lineage and the ABILITY to get things done in the ring. The rest should hit the bricks and arrange for modeling contracts.

-The Quick Fix: The eight former names are collectively so untalented, that the four latter names should be able to dispatch of two apiece.

-The Replacements: Bring back Maryse, Michelle McCool (Never thought I'd miss her), Lita (Maybe one of the best in the Diva's division ever), Mickie James, Maria (still better than Kelly), Mickie James, and Melina (Personal issues aside, she's a better in-ring performer, period). Introduce the world to Sara Del Ray.

3. John Laurinaitis

-The Problem: Yes, Johnny Ace himself. Shocking, right? The man has all the personality and entertainment value of a flattened pine cone. Rest your vocal cords, Laryngitis. No one can hear what you're saying anyway. Go home.

-The Quick Fix: Have Vince McMahon return to wish Johnny the best in all his future endeavors and appoint a permanent RAW GM.

-The Replacement: JBL. It's going to happen anyway. But the absence of Johnny Ace will be greatly appreciated.

2. Michael Cole

-The Problem: The issue has been talked to death. I Hate Michael Cole with a fiery passion, but for none of the right reasons. In short, Michael Cole should have been written off WWE television permanently a decade ago when Stone Cold Steve Austin dealt him the beating of a lifetime. Granted, Cole is doing his job of playing the heel, the problem is he's not doing it right. Even Aubrey Sitterton of UGO has made the observation that Cole isn't "Get You Riled Up Bad", he's "Change The Channel Bad". Even the most casual observer, one who just started watching can tell you that there's a world of difference. Who knew all this time that Tazz was the better broadcast partner of the two on Smackdown? Ouch. Cole has delivered more cringe-inducing, uncomfortably bad television on a weekly basis in the past year than Paul Heyman did on commentary EVER. Go away Cole. Never come back.

-The Quick Fix: Should have been tonight. WWE Creative has decided to torture us for the foreseeable future, cursing us with this intestinal cyst for weeks and weeks to come. Should the day ever come, it should come at the hands of a Daniel Bryan Crossface (I refuse to call it the LaBell Lock) that remains locked in for a solid ten minutes before officials can break the hold.

-The Replacement: Matt Striker on commentary, The empty roster spot can go to either The Kings of Wrestling or either of the American Wolves.

1. Hornswoggle

-The Problem: He's the definition of useless. Finlay is gone. His premise has run its course. Still he lingers. For no good reason. Everyone over the age of four will tell you that he has long since worn out his welcome. Time for the "Little Bastard" to go.

-The Quick Fix: A modified Brogue Kick from Sheamus.

-The Replacement: A new set of ring ropes and a turkey club sandwich.

Once these wastes of roster space and air time are dealt with, then and only then can the company expect to move forward. Until then, expect more of the same; as CM Punk put it, a "colossal waste of time".

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25 Bold Predictions for WWE in 2012

Yes, there are still better than six weeks left to 2011. I'm well aware that countless unexpected events can transpire in this span of time, particularly in the realm of World Wrestling Entertainment. But there's no harm in gazing into the crystal ball and making an attempt to forecast what future twists and turns lie ahead for the company in 2012.

Now certain angles may enable some to make fairly tame predictions. Vince McMahon and company do lay certain things out in black and white for all to see coming. However, I've taken it upon myself to think outside the box a little and make a few "bold" predictions and see how my assumptions fare in the year to come.

So how will things unfold in 2012?

1. In addition to the already announced Mil Mascaras, The WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be headlined by the likes of Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Demolition, Edge (in light of his unexpected retirement), The Rock (in light of his participation at the event, and at long last, the late, great "Macho Man" Randy Savage.

2. After five years of progressively losing support, a jaded John Cena will decide that he's tired of competing for the Babyface spotlight on RAW with Rey Mysterio before making his long-awaited heel turn by turning on Mysterio in tag action and shunning his remaining followers. The betrayal will lead to a months-long feud culminating at Summerslam with both men's jobs on the line. Naturally, Cena will play the role of monster heel and end the legendary luchador's storied career.

3. In the second 40-man contest, CM Punk will be the winner of the 2012 Royal Rumble. Surprise entrants will include Papa Shango, Steve Blackman, MVP and Gregory Iron.

4. The Hardcore Title and the infamous 24/7 rule will both be reinstated. The first new champion will be crowned in Chicago at WWE Extreme Rules.

5. The WWE Championship will be revamped to a polished version of its classic "Eagle" design.

6. The latest superstar to tackle the streak at Wrestlemania will be none other than Chris Jericho.

7. After the shortcomings of WWE's Fatal Four-Way and Capitol Punishment PPV's, King of The Ring will make its triumphant return to pay-per-view in June for the first time in a decade. Ted DiBiase will take the crown and as such receive a title shot at Summerslam.

8. Daniel Bryan will indeed cash in his briefcase at Wrestlemania...against Wade Barrett. And win.

9. John Morrison will finally find his way out of the corporate doghouse and win the WWE Championship.

10. Kharma will return as the third axel to Beth Phoenix and Natalya's "Diva Demolition Machine" bent on the eradication of the worst of their division.

11. The permanent RAW General Manager spot will be relinquished by John Laurinaitis to JBL.

12. In addition to the contest between The Rock and John Cena, Rumble winner CM Punk will challenge WWE Champion Alberto Del Rio and World Champion Sheamus will defend against both Randy Orton and Wade Barrett. Barrett will triumph, but his reign will be short-lived (see #8).

13. Vickie Guerrero will attempt to extend her clientele beyond Ziggler and Swagger. The outreach program will help the ignored talents, such as Curt Hawkins, Tyler Reks and Drew McIntyre as well as returning talents, such as Husky Harris and Skip Sheffield, get some much needed in-ring exposure. Sheffield, in particular, will prove an asset to Vickie in providing a challenge for Mason Ryan.

14. For the first time in fifteen years, a double turn will occur at Wrestlemania.

15. The Money In The Bank Briefcases will go to John Morrison (RAW) and Cody Rhodes (Smackdown).

16. Through the combined efforts of the WWE Network and the continued creative leadership of Jeff Jarrett, Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff, Impact's ratings will continue to plummet. This will result in no fewer than five TNA mainstays jumping ship by the end of the year.

17. Kane and The Undertaker will both wrestle their final match in a WWE ring.

18. The Kings of Wrestling (Chris Hero and the former Claudio Castagnoli) will win the WWE Tag Team Championships.

19. At WWE Over The Limit, Mike Adamle's only good idea will be put into place as both the WWE Championship and World Championship will be contested under Championship Scramble rules.

20. For the first time since 1990, neither World Title will be defended at Survivor Series and the night will instead consist of five traditional 4-on-4 elimination matches and a final Survivor Series Showdown match to conclude the evening.

21. Either Mark Henry (during his title reign) or Brodus Clay will reintroduce the infamous King Kong Bundy "5-count".

22. CM Punk will get his wish as WWE brings back its beloved Ice Cream Bars. The 16 available characters will include Punk, John Cena, Alberto Del Rio, Randy Orton, Zack Ryder, Cody Rhodes, The Awesome Truth (as a team), Sheamus, Mark Henry, Kofi Kingston, Rey Mysterio, John Morrison, Dolph Ziggler, Christian, The Big Show and Triple H.

23. Five Words: The Brother Love Show returns....

24. WWE and iTunes will release Anthology II. Tracks available for download (and commemorative CD purchase) will feature four chapters of previously un-released themes from the Federation Era, Attitude Era, "E" era and fans' favorite themes from the last decade since the release of the previous Anthology I.

25. After another failed senate bid, Linda McMahon and the remaining McMahon clan will resolve to do away with the PG label and gather up some of the fanbase that they've lost with what will be billed as an "Attitude Renaissance". Changes will take effect January 2013.

Will ANY of this take place? Likely not. But it's worth it to go out on a limb and

take a stab at the probability of what the folks in Stamford, CT have in store for their ever-loyal fanbase. In all likelihood, there will be a fair share of angles we love, and obviously more than a few that we hate and that some will rage about for the better part of the year. All that we, the fans are left to do is roll the dice, make our assumptions and enjoy the ride.