1. RUSTYYYYY SMITH!!!
I don’t mean to pick on the guy, but really, the Titans are screwed. Rusty Smith is not a good quarterback, to put it nicely. He routinely overthrew, underthrew, and sideways threw his targets. A couple times, I wondered who he was throwing to. Come on Rustyyyy! You’re the leading passer in Florida Atlantic history; surely you can do better than that!
And to the Titans coaching staff: You give Chris Johnson seven touches on the ground? When you’re starting a rookie sixth round pick at quarterback...why? I can understand that you were chomping at the bit after watching film of one of the worst pass defenses in recent memory…you talked yourself into the Rusty era, you thought your sixth round rookie quarterback was > than Houston’s pass “defense”. But you have Chris Johnson on your team; the guy who ran for over 2,000 yards last season. Give him the damn ball.
2. A whole lot of the Manning face…
Last night’s game was surreal. It’s not often you see Peyton Manning look so uncomfortable in the pocket…even rattled. Mad props to Chris Collinsworth and company for showing those great close-ups of Manning’s face in the pocket. If you didn’t have the pleasure of seeing the pictures suffice to know Peyton was flinching at the slightest hint of pressure. He was flustered.
Some thoughts on the Colts: this looks to be a 2009 Patriots type of season for them. They’re beat up as hell (to put it mildly) and are in dire need of a solid influx of young talent. Let’s face it; some of their most recent acquisitions aren’t quite working out. Donald Brown isn’t panning out like they thought, Anthony Gonzalez can’t stay on the field, and Pierre Garcon just hasn’t earned Manning’s trust. Take a lesson from the Pat’s: a tremendous draft can cure all ills (and a little bit of health of course).
3. Vick is mortal…
I wrote all about Vick last week, and that the Giants may have laid out the blue-print on how to stop him. I guess the Bears are either avid readers of my columns or hit the game film pretty hard (I’ll lean towards the later, but only slightly). But Vick still had a decent game, in fact his one interception game from a nice tipped pass by the defense rather than a bad read or poorly thrown ball. The real issue was how Chicago gashed Philadelphia’s defense. Vick and friends did enough offensively to win the ball game, it was the defense that let them down.
Chicago gained 3.9 more yards per pass attempt, and 1.1 more yards per offensive play. Matt Forte had a 61 yard run while averaging 8.4 yards per rush. Three Chicago receivers averaged over 22 yards per catch and each caught a pass of at least thirty yards. The Eagles got destroyed by the big play to put it simply. Philadelphia controlled the game in many ways: six more first downs, fifty more total yards of offense, and won the time of possession battle by almost four minutes. But once again, The Eagles inability to contain Chicago’s offense (which has been mediocre at best) was their death sentence. They’re in trouble if they don’t address that, and fast.
One last note about Philly, if you can stand it. Andy Reid once again showed his skill at game/time management…and by skill I mean good god he’s terrible. Eagles down 31-13 with fourth and goal at the Bear’s four yard line, andddd field goal. I suppose you could argue that it cuts it down to a two score game but with only 13 minutes left in the game, and Chicago’s offense on a roll all day, you have to take the chance. Second instance: Eight minutes left in the game, down by 15, fourth and goal at the 18. I know, that’s a terrible situation. 18 yards to go for a score, no chance of a first down. But you have to go for it right? All a field goal does is cut the deficit down to 12; which means the bird’s still needed two touchdowns…not much better than the situation they were in beforehand. The lesson here as always: Andy Reid sucks at game management.
4. Atlanta doing it “The Patriot way”…
For those among you that dislike the Patriots this isn’t a 200 word slobber fest over New England…merely an observation that Atlanta is winning games like the Patriots of old did. They aren’t dominating, aren’t running up the score, nor are they ranked in the top eight of total defense or offense according to http://www.nfl.com/. They just beat everyone…and play their best in crunch time. Matt Ryan is the anti-Carson Palmer: when the game gets close he gets better. They’ll likely get home field advantage through-out the playoffs, which means they are a dangerous team.
5. The Chiefs are…
…I don’t know. We all know they’re decent, what I can’t figure out is if they are great or just “easy out in the playoffs” material. Let’s do a John Hollinger-esque breakdown of this.
What the Chiefs do well:
1. Run the ball: lead the league in total rushing yards: 1,917. Tied for second in rushing yards per attempt: 4.9. Tied for third in 20+ yard runs and 5th in 40+ yards. Tied for fourth with ten rushing touchdowns.
2. Surprisingly, pass the ball: Matt Cassel is having a terrific year with 2,307 pass yards, 22 touchdowns along with only 4 picks, 7.1 yards per attempt average, and 60.4 completion percentage. Also, Dwyane Bowe is having a ridiculous season with 14 touchdown receptions…and counting. They’re not putting up monster yardage numbers but it’s been efficient and relatively mistake free.
3. Stop the run: Holding opponents to 96.5 rushing yards per game; good for seventh in the league. They’ve done it against some pretty good backs to, holding Peyton Hillis to 35 yards, Frank Gore to 43, Arian Foster to 71, and Maurice Jones-Drew to 47.
4. Stop opponents on third down: Holding them to a 35.7 conversion rate; good for 13th.
5. Beating the NFC west: outscored them by 104 to 47. Oh wait, everyone does that well…
What the Chiefs don’t do well:
1. Defend the pass: Given up 2,711 yards to passers and a 19 to 8 touchdown to interception ratio.
2. Force turnovers: Tied for 17th with nine interceptions, and tied for seventh with 16 forced fumbles. Although it’s not terrible, it’s not very good either.
3. Convert on third down: Tied for 16th in the league while converting 37.8 of their third down attempts.
4. Sack the quarterback: Tied for 16th in the league with 22 quarterback sacks.
So they pass the ball efficiently, run it better than anyone, stop the run, and don’t allow opponents to convert a high percentage of their third down attempts. On the flip side they’re pedestrian at defending the pass, don’t force many turnovers, very middling on third down, and don’t get after the quarterback very well.
They are most definitely the beneficiary of a cream puff schedule with the combined record of teams they’ve played: 48-71 and the combined record of teams they will play: 24-31.
So what to make of them? They can run the ball against anybody with the best one-two punch in the game, and they’re great at stopping the run. Their passing attack has been awesome, but the average ranking of pass defenses they’ve played? 18th, with only 2 in the top 5. We won’t know how “for real” their aerial assault is until they play the San Diego again in week 14. In fact, we won’t be able to really determine this team’s ceiling until that game which will be KC’s first true test since Indianapolis in week 4.
Until I see the Chiefs put together a complete game against a contender I can’t help but feel they will be an easy out in the post season, if in fact, they get in. Monster numbers against crappy teams, do not a good team make…
Deciphering the 2010 playoff picture
Parity has been the word that has defined this most recent of NFL seasons, and you, readers like myself, will probably vomit if you have to read that word again. Still, the playoff picture is as foggy now as my comma and semi-colon use has ever been. It seems like a crap shoot to pinpoint the contenders and pretenders but I belong to the ultra top secret fraternity of sports writers, and that’s what we do. So here goes:
AFC East
1a. New York Jets 1b. New England Patriots (both 9-2)
Really, these two teams are so close right now it’s impossible to predict who takes the east. Fortunately, they play each other next Monday night, in what will likely be the marquee matchup of the season. Whoever wins that game has the inside track to the division title, and likely, the first seed in the AFC playoffs.
AFC South
Indianapolis Colts (6-5)
This is a close race, with Jacksonville leading Indy by a half game and the Texans at 5-6 not completely out of it. Despite how bad the Colts looked last night against the Chargers I won’t give up on them. Even with all the injuries they remain a better team than the Jaguars, and with one game left against the Jags they control their own destiny. A light schedule the rest of the way (two games against Tennessee) certainly helps their cause and once Austin Collie returns (assuming he does) the passing game will start clicking.
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens (8-3)
Like the AFC East this one will come down to next week’s heavy weight fight between the Ravens and Steelers (crap, did I write this a week to early?). As of now, Baltimore boasts the better team…thanks to greater consistency and an offense that is firing on all cylinders. I don’t know that Pittsburgh can contend with such a disparate offensive line (They gave up five sacks against the Bills and Guard Chris Kemoeatu was called for four holding penalties).
AFC West
San Diego Chargers (6-5)
The Chargers have an easy schedule the rest of the way except for a key battle against the Chiefs. Kansas City has an easy schedule the rest of the way except for a key battle against the Chargers. Get the picture? Whoever wins that game likely gets the crown…I give the edge to the Chargers because I trust Philip Rivers roughly 5,948 times more than Matt Cassel and they seem to have ironed out their recent problems. Plus, Gates and V-Jax should be back to full health right around the end of the season. They’re peaking at the perfect time.
Wildcards
1a. New York Jets 1b. New England Patriots (9-2)
See above
Kansas City Chiefs (7-4)
Surprise, surprise! How could I not put Pittsburgh here? Simple, they have three tough games upcoming: Baltimore, New York Jets, and Cleveland Browns. The Chiefs have one: San Diego Chargers. As crazy as it sounds I think the Chiefs have a better chance to grab that last spot in the postseason.
NFC East
Philadelphia Eagles (7-4)
The Giants haven’t looked good in three weeks, while the Eagles just hit a road block in Chicago. Both have similar schedules down the stretch with a boatload of games against the NFC east yet to be played. If you watched Philly Sunday you would know they would have beaten the Bears if they could score in the red zone…something I think they can correct. I give them a mulligan against Chicago and believe they can win out the rest of the season.
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons (9-2)
Cream puff schedule the rest of the way (two games against Carolina plus one against Seattle) means they should go at least 12-4. They’ve had two tests the past two weeks: win a tough game on the road against a decent team and win a title fight against the Packers. They passed both. They have three road games in a row upcoming; if they can past this final test they should capture the division crown and win home field advantage throughout the postseason.
NFC North
Green Bay Packers (7-4)
Chicago has a crazy tough schedule the rest of the way: home against New England, at Minnesota, home against the Jets, then on the road against Green Bay. Their only reprieve comes against Detroit, which can be a decent team when it wants to be. Green Bay’s schedule isn’t quite as tough (at New England, then home against the Giants and Bears) which is why I give them the edge. I continue to hate Chicago and they continue to prove me wrong so this should be an interesting one.
NFC West
St. Louis Rams (5-6)
This seems to be a two man race for the crappiest division in football crown, with St. Louis having the edge. None of the teams are great, but the Ram’s own Sam Bradford has been awesome as of late so I’ll take the team with the hottest Quarterback.
Wildcards
New Orleans Saints (8-3)
Rounding into form just in time (although that almost-collapse against Dallas was worrying) with some injured players returning. A 100% Reggie Bush would go a long way to improving the offense and despite the bump against Dallas the defense has played outstanding. They have all the makings of a playoff-caliber team.
Chicago Bears (8-3)
I’m staying away from this team like I would avoid rotten milk. Their defense has returned to the 2006 level, and when the offense plays mistake free they are hard to beat. But it’s hard to say which Bears offense will show up: the one where Cutler throws three picks and gets sacked eight times or the one with huge explosive plays and the deadly return game? Tough to say, but they’ve clawed their way to an 8-3 record which gives them the edge over the Giants for the last wildcard spot.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Week 12 Picks
I had way too much food over the Holiday, and I’m feeling lazy. So lay off. Anyway, here are my abridged week 12 picks…
Green Bay Packers @ Atlanta Falcons (24-23)
Just like you don’t bet against Peyton Manning at night, you don’t bet against Matty Ice at home. I know Green Bay is hot right now, but the Falcons just don’t make mistakes and their defense is so tremendous in the Georgia Dome…
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Buffalo Bills (34-23)
After watching the Steelers dismantle Oakland is there any doubt they’re a top 5-6 team? Potential trap game, but no matter Pittsburgh will win.
Carolina Panthers @ Cleveland Browns (27-6)
If someone had a gun to my head and said they would shoot if I didn’t pick the Panthers…I would probably pick them, but I wouldn’t like it.
Jacksonville Jaguars @ New York Giants (28-13)
Barring a miracle hail-mary Giants should win…even if they are a little banged up. And aren’t we beyond due for the bad David Garrard to show up? I like New York’s pass rush to make it happen.
Minnesota Vikings @ Washington Redskins (20-10)
The Frazier effect! The Frazier effect! The Frazier effect! The Frazier effect!
Tennessee Titans @ Houston Texans (31-24)
I hate this pick soooo much. What do you go with: a historically awful defense or a third string quarterback named Rusty Smith from Coastal Carolina? He’s got a 127.9 passer rating in college along with a 76 to 36 touchdown interception ratio…and he’s got some weapons. Oh, and they have Chris Johnson. Yeah, I’m that afraid of Houston’s, ahem, “defense”.
Kansas City Chiefs @ Seattle Seahawks (27-24)
I don’t trust the Chiefs on the road even a little (0-4) and the Seahawks tend to show their good side at home. Even if Matt Hasselbeck is playing with a broken hand…
Miami Dolphins @ Oakland Raiders (17-13)
This has bounce-back game written all over it. And just so you know: Tyler Thigpen!
UPDATE: Massive brain fart...for some reason I thought Thigpen was starting again. He did not, it was Henne who started...and played well.
St. Louis Rams @ Denver Broncos (35-20)
The Rams are bad on the road, Denver is bad anywhere. But the Broncos offense should be all over a bad road defense and St. Louis won’t be able to keep up.
Philadelphia Eagles @ Chicago Bears (24-17)
The Eagles are hot right now, and they showed they could win last week even if Vick isn’t having a great game. Bears have a good pass rush…but so did the Giants, and the Eagles were able to slow that down pretty well.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Baltimore Ravens (21-13)
Tampa Bay has yet to beat a solid, play-off caliber team. Don’t mean to be a curmudgeon, I love Cinderella’s as much as the next guy…
San Diego Chargers @ Indianapolis Colts (38-31)
Vincent Jackson’s back, Gates should be good to go, Philip Rivers is passing like the well-being of his family depends on it; how can the Colts defense hope to contend? Oh wait, its Peyton Manning at night…screw it, Chargers play well against the Colts, and their offense should overwhelm them.
San Francisco 49ers @ Arizona Cardinals (24-20)
You mean to tell me this is the Monday night game? I’d rather watch Grey’s anatomy…
Last Week: 10-6
Overall: 85-59
Thanksgiving games: 3-0
Upset of the Week: Seattle Seahwaks OVER Kansas City Chiefs (...I guess that's an upset?)
Lock of the Week: San Diego Chargers OVER Indianapolis Colts
Pounding of the Week: Pittsburgh Steelers OVER Buffalo Bills
Green Bay Packers @ Atlanta Falcons (24-23)
Just like you don’t bet against Peyton Manning at night, you don’t bet against Matty Ice at home. I know Green Bay is hot right now, but the Falcons just don’t make mistakes and their defense is so tremendous in the Georgia Dome…
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Buffalo Bills (34-23)
After watching the Steelers dismantle Oakland is there any doubt they’re a top 5-6 team? Potential trap game, but no matter Pittsburgh will win.
Carolina Panthers @ Cleveland Browns (27-6)
If someone had a gun to my head and said they would shoot if I didn’t pick the Panthers…I would probably pick them, but I wouldn’t like it.
Jacksonville Jaguars @ New York Giants (28-13)
Barring a miracle hail-mary Giants should win…even if they are a little banged up. And aren’t we beyond due for the bad David Garrard to show up? I like New York’s pass rush to make it happen.
Minnesota Vikings @ Washington Redskins (20-10)
The Frazier effect! The Frazier effect! The Frazier effect! The Frazier effect!
Tennessee Titans @ Houston Texans (31-24)
I hate this pick soooo much. What do you go with: a historically awful defense or a third string quarterback named Rusty Smith from Coastal Carolina? He’s got a 127.9 passer rating in college along with a 76 to 36 touchdown interception ratio…and he’s got some weapons. Oh, and they have Chris Johnson. Yeah, I’m that afraid of Houston’s, ahem, “defense”.
Kansas City Chiefs @ Seattle Seahawks (27-24)
I don’t trust the Chiefs on the road even a little (0-4) and the Seahawks tend to show their good side at home. Even if Matt Hasselbeck is playing with a broken hand…
Miami Dolphins @ Oakland Raiders (17-13)
This has bounce-back game written all over it. And just so you know: Tyler Thigpen!
UPDATE: Massive brain fart...for some reason I thought Thigpen was starting again. He did not, it was Henne who started...and played well.
St. Louis Rams @ Denver Broncos (35-20)
The Rams are bad on the road, Denver is bad anywhere. But the Broncos offense should be all over a bad road defense and St. Louis won’t be able to keep up.
Philadelphia Eagles @ Chicago Bears (24-17)
The Eagles are hot right now, and they showed they could win last week even if Vick isn’t having a great game. Bears have a good pass rush…but so did the Giants, and the Eagles were able to slow that down pretty well.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Baltimore Ravens (21-13)
Tampa Bay has yet to beat a solid, play-off caliber team. Don’t mean to be a curmudgeon, I love Cinderella’s as much as the next guy…
San Diego Chargers @ Indianapolis Colts (38-31)
Vincent Jackson’s back, Gates should be good to go, Philip Rivers is passing like the well-being of his family depends on it; how can the Colts defense hope to contend? Oh wait, its Peyton Manning at night…screw it, Chargers play well against the Colts, and their offense should overwhelm them.
San Francisco 49ers @ Arizona Cardinals (24-20)
You mean to tell me this is the Monday night game? I’d rather watch Grey’s anatomy…
Last Week: 10-6
Overall: 85-59
Thanksgiving games: 3-0
Upset of the Week: Seattle Seahwaks OVER Kansas City Chiefs (...I guess that's an upset?)
Lock of the Week: San Diego Chargers OVER Indianapolis Colts
Pounding of the Week: Pittsburgh Steelers OVER Buffalo Bills
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanksgiving day picks
To all six people that read my blog: Happy Thanksgiving!
New England Patriots @ Detroit Lions (27-20)
Tom Brady with a broken foot is still roughly six times better than a healthy Shaun Hill.
New Orleans Saints @ Dallas Cowboys (23-13)
I don’t care about the Jason Garrett effect, what about the Reggie Bush effect?
Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Jets (38-17)
When Cincinnati goes up big they like to find ways to lose; when New York is down they seem to find improbable ways to win. Unfortunately for the Jets, no such luck today, they’ll be up big all game.
New England Patriots @ Detroit Lions (27-20)
Tom Brady with a broken foot is still roughly six times better than a healthy Shaun Hill.
New Orleans Saints @ Dallas Cowboys (23-13)
I don’t care about the Jason Garrett effect, what about the Reggie Bush effect?
Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Jets (38-17)
When Cincinnati goes up big they like to find ways to lose; when New York is down they seem to find improbable ways to win. Unfortunately for the Jets, no such luck today, they’ll be up big all game.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Beards...they grow on you!
It’s No-Shave-November. I have a strange fascination with facial hair. I don't feel like writing 3,000 words. Oh what the Hell, why not showcase the best beards to ever grace the faces of athletes across the country?
In no particular order:
1. Baron Davis
I don’t care if Baron Davis is fat and lazy…that beard is awesome!
2. Kimbo Slice
If only he was half as good as his beard…
3. Braylon Edwards
Did his ability to catch the football get lost somewhere in that monster?
4. Jeff Reed
Too bad he just got cut…from his football team
5. Brian Wilson
I’m 100% heterosexual…but that thing makes me swoon
6. The New England Patriots offensive line
How much are they paying these West Virginian mountain men to masquerade as professional football players?
7. Ricky Williams
He smokes pot, and can grow an awesome beard!
8. Lanny McDonald
Is he a hockey player or a soldier from the battle of Gettysburg?
9. Phil Jackson
Who knew?
10. Boone Logan
Does nobody love him?
...And 15,000 brain cells later, the ten best pieces of facial hair to ever be seen in sports...
In no particular order:
1. Baron Davis
I don’t care if Baron Davis is fat and lazy…that beard is awesome!
2. Kimbo Slice
If only he was half as good as his beard…
3. Braylon Edwards
Did his ability to catch the football get lost somewhere in that monster?
4. Jeff Reed
Too bad he just got cut…from his football team
5. Brian Wilson
I’m 100% heterosexual…but that thing makes me swoon
6. The New England Patriots offensive line
How much are they paying these West Virginian mountain men to masquerade as professional football players?
7. Ricky Williams
He smokes pot, and can grow an awesome beard!
8. Lanny McDonald
Is he a hockey player or a soldier from the battle of Gettysburg?
9. Phil Jackson
Who knew?
10. Boone Logan
Does nobody love him?
...And 15,000 brain cells later, the ten best pieces of facial hair to ever be seen in sports...
Monday, November 22, 2010
The Morning After
1. Unless you’re a Pittsburgh fan you can’t tell me you didn’t enjoy Richard Seymour clocking Big Ben in the face. That was awesome…he had it coming to him. I just want to offer Richard a formal thank-you for doing what 99.3% of America has wanted to do to Big Ben for a long time, again, thank-you.
Here it is if you didn’t see it already (in which you either live under a rock, or shouldn’t be reading this blog):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJ022efPQ8I&playnext=1&list=QL
2. There’s nothing I can say about Vince Young that hasn’t already been said, but I feel like I need to say it anyway. He’s a talented football player that much is evident. But talent doesn’t give you an automatic starting job on game day (see: Jamarcus Russel). You see, Vince, you need to to show your coach you actually care and are adequately prepared every single Sunday. This isn’t high school (or even college) we’re you can show up completely unprepared and wing it based solely on athleticism…everyone’s good in the big leagues (well except for Carson Palmer). There’s going to come a time in which teams stop taking chances on you and then you’re broke…all because you never put the time in Monday through Friday. How do you think that will feel?
3. If you would recall I picked Minnesota to win in a nail-biter against Green Bay…in hindsight, that didn’t turn out so well. Call it a mulligan if you would be so kind; that turned out worse than Randy Moss’s decision to talk his way out of New England. I could give you 500 words on the giant fart-cloud laid by Favre and Childress across Minnesota, but instead I offer you this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6spVb5U9WTA
4. I came as close to the brink of insanity Sunday afternoon as I hope to ever experience again. For Peyton Manning and his eclectic collection of pass catchers (that’s a compliment, Tight end Jacob Tamme is so slow I’m positive he’s actually a left tackle) to defeat the Patriots in almost the same way they did last year would drive a stake through Patriots nation most would never recover from. Manning already gives me nightmares…if he were to beat the Pat’s again in such dramatic and excruciating fashion I would be like one of those people you see in horror movies that’s in the nut house because he swears he’s seen a ghost/Satan/what have you, everyone thinks is insane, but is actually completely right. Thanks to an epic Peyton Manning eff-up, none of that happened…as far as you know.
5. Can someone please teach Michael Vick how to slide? There’s no way he makes it through the season with the kind of punishment he’s taking every week. There are two-three plays every game where Vick just gets walloped…that can’t happen. The guys six feet tall and 200 pounds, he’s not built to take punishment like a 5’10 230 pound half-back. Maybe Any Reid can show him the ropes?
6. Speaking of Vick, the Giants kindly laid out the blueprint of how to stop him last night…or at least contain him. It all starts with the pass rush…when the Giants just went with four rushers Vick had all day, but when they sent five or more he was always hurried. But that much is pretty clear, the second thing New York did I found interesting was force Vick to his right. When he is forced that way he tends to tuck it and run instead of passing (understandable considering he’s left handed).
The Eagles have a big play offense-when they’re getting those deep throws to Jackson going it allows the ground game to open up and gives Vick better running lanes and field vision. But when Vick is heavily pressured those deep routes aren’t allowed to develop which send’s Philadelphia’s offense to a screeching halt. For all of Vick’s vast improvement he still seems unable to beat the blitz…a troublesome sign for the Philadelphia Eagles.
7. You can’t stop Chan Gailey…you can only hope to contain him. Cincinnati should be ashamed…up 31-7 at halftime against a 1-8 team. Really? Carson Palmer, Terrell Owens, Chad OchoCinco, and Cedric Benson can’t put up any more points in the second half against a team that is ranked last or close to last in nearly every defensive category? I thought Carson Palmer was the premier garbage time quarterback in the game today…not the league’s best front runner.
3 Teams Up
1. Green Bay Packers (7-3): Remember when they held open tryouts week three because of all the injuries? I made that up, but they did suffer more injuries in the first few weeks that I can ever remember…which is why it’s so astonishing how dominant the Pack has been lately. You can thank Greg Jennings for that…the man has been god-like over the second half of the season (520 yards and 6 touchdowns) and the continued dominance by the golden locks of Clay Mathews.
2. Atlanta Falcons (8-2): Because they needed to show they could gut out a tough win away from the Georgia Dome against a reasonably good team…they did just that and more. Roddy White is a beast.
3. Washington Redskins (5-5): They deserve some recognition for gutting out a win against a tough Tennessee team (with the exception of Vince Young) after getting absolutely shellacked last week.
3 Teams Down
1. Tennessee Titans (5-5): What happened to them? Chris Johnson isn’t being the dominant player he was last year and Randy Moss has been putting up numbers more befitting of Roy Williams than the great Randy “straight-cash-homie” Moss. With Rusty Smith (yes, that’s really his name) under center don’t expect much of an improvement in the coming weeks.
2. San Francisco 49ers (3-7): For putting up zero points at home, against a team that allowed the Arizona Cardinals to put up 35 points. I hopped on the Troy Smith bandwagon at the first chance possible…but how stupid of me, I forgot Mike Singletary is his coach.
3. Carolina Panthers (1-9): For throwing Brian St. Pierre to the dogs…and watching him throw 2 (yes 2!) pick 6’s. What’s he gonna’ tell his kids now when they ask about his football career? “Yeah, I played professional football, yeah I started a game, yeah I threw two picks, yeah they were returned for touchdowns…but at least I got the chance!” Poor guy.
Here it is if you didn’t see it already (in which you either live under a rock, or shouldn’t be reading this blog):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJ022efPQ8I&playnext=1&list=QL
2. There’s nothing I can say about Vince Young that hasn’t already been said, but I feel like I need to say it anyway. He’s a talented football player that much is evident. But talent doesn’t give you an automatic starting job on game day (see: Jamarcus Russel). You see, Vince, you need to to show your coach you actually care and are adequately prepared every single Sunday. This isn’t high school (or even college) we’re you can show up completely unprepared and wing it based solely on athleticism…everyone’s good in the big leagues (well except for Carson Palmer). There’s going to come a time in which teams stop taking chances on you and then you’re broke…all because you never put the time in Monday through Friday. How do you think that will feel?
3. If you would recall I picked Minnesota to win in a nail-biter against Green Bay…in hindsight, that didn’t turn out so well. Call it a mulligan if you would be so kind; that turned out worse than Randy Moss’s decision to talk his way out of New England. I could give you 500 words on the giant fart-cloud laid by Favre and Childress across Minnesota, but instead I offer you this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6spVb5U9WTA
4. I came as close to the brink of insanity Sunday afternoon as I hope to ever experience again. For Peyton Manning and his eclectic collection of pass catchers (that’s a compliment, Tight end Jacob Tamme is so slow I’m positive he’s actually a left tackle) to defeat the Patriots in almost the same way they did last year would drive a stake through Patriots nation most would never recover from. Manning already gives me nightmares…if he were to beat the Pat’s again in such dramatic and excruciating fashion I would be like one of those people you see in horror movies that’s in the nut house because he swears he’s seen a ghost/Satan/what have you, everyone thinks is insane, but is actually completely right. Thanks to an epic Peyton Manning eff-up, none of that happened…as far as you know.
5. Can someone please teach Michael Vick how to slide? There’s no way he makes it through the season with the kind of punishment he’s taking every week. There are two-three plays every game where Vick just gets walloped…that can’t happen. The guys six feet tall and 200 pounds, he’s not built to take punishment like a 5’10 230 pound half-back. Maybe Any Reid can show him the ropes?
6. Speaking of Vick, the Giants kindly laid out the blueprint of how to stop him last night…or at least contain him. It all starts with the pass rush…when the Giants just went with four rushers Vick had all day, but when they sent five or more he was always hurried. But that much is pretty clear, the second thing New York did I found interesting was force Vick to his right. When he is forced that way he tends to tuck it and run instead of passing (understandable considering he’s left handed).
The Eagles have a big play offense-when they’re getting those deep throws to Jackson going it allows the ground game to open up and gives Vick better running lanes and field vision. But when Vick is heavily pressured those deep routes aren’t allowed to develop which send’s Philadelphia’s offense to a screeching halt. For all of Vick’s vast improvement he still seems unable to beat the blitz…a troublesome sign for the Philadelphia Eagles.
7. You can’t stop Chan Gailey…you can only hope to contain him. Cincinnati should be ashamed…up 31-7 at halftime against a 1-8 team. Really? Carson Palmer, Terrell Owens, Chad OchoCinco, and Cedric Benson can’t put up any more points in the second half against a team that is ranked last or close to last in nearly every defensive category? I thought Carson Palmer was the premier garbage time quarterback in the game today…not the league’s best front runner.
3 Teams Up
1. Green Bay Packers (7-3): Remember when they held open tryouts week three because of all the injuries? I made that up, but they did suffer more injuries in the first few weeks that I can ever remember…which is why it’s so astonishing how dominant the Pack has been lately. You can thank Greg Jennings for that…the man has been god-like over the second half of the season (520 yards and 6 touchdowns) and the continued dominance by the golden locks of Clay Mathews.
2. Atlanta Falcons (8-2): Because they needed to show they could gut out a tough win away from the Georgia Dome against a reasonably good team…they did just that and more. Roddy White is a beast.
3. Washington Redskins (5-5): They deserve some recognition for gutting out a win against a tough Tennessee team (with the exception of Vince Young) after getting absolutely shellacked last week.
3 Teams Down
1. Tennessee Titans (5-5): What happened to them? Chris Johnson isn’t being the dominant player he was last year and Randy Moss has been putting up numbers more befitting of Roy Williams than the great Randy “straight-cash-homie” Moss. With Rusty Smith (yes, that’s really his name) under center don’t expect much of an improvement in the coming weeks.
2. San Francisco 49ers (3-7): For putting up zero points at home, against a team that allowed the Arizona Cardinals to put up 35 points. I hopped on the Troy Smith bandwagon at the first chance possible…but how stupid of me, I forgot Mike Singletary is his coach.
3. Carolina Panthers (1-9): For throwing Brian St. Pierre to the dogs…and watching him throw 2 (yes 2!) pick 6’s. What’s he gonna’ tell his kids now when they ask about his football career? “Yeah, I played professional football, yeah I started a game, yeah I threw two picks, yeah they were returned for touchdowns…but at least I got the chance!” Poor guy.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Week 11 Picks...Aiming to Rebound
14-13 over the past two weeks…I’m choking worse than Peyton Manning in a playoff game. Let’s hope I can pull a San Diego and come roaring back in the last third of the season. For the first time in two weeks I’m feeling really great about my picks…but I was also feeling good about New England’s chances in Super Bowl XLII. How’d that turn out? A lot of blood, sweat, and tears went into these picks (two of those three didn’t actually happen) so please, enjoy them, but enjoy them responsibly:
If I was a Cincinnati fan I would be utterly dismayed by the fact that Carson Palmer is being outplayed by Bill’s Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. If I was a Buffalo Bills fan I would be utterly dismayed that I’m a Buffalo Bills fan. Both teams are bad and destined for high picks in the draft; which begs the question: Why is Gus Johnson calling this one? Why does he get stuck with the crappy ones? He’s the Larry Fitzgerald of sports announcers. I picked the Bengal’s for several reasons: The Bills can’t win two in a row unless a certain four horseman are involved, I trust the Bengals slightly more in crunch time than the Bills, and Carson and friends should be able to tear up that awful Buffalo secondary. I’ll repeat should because the Bengals should be doing a lot of things this season…
Detroit Lions @ Dallas Cowboys (23-16)
I’m treating these two teams like I would treat bio-hazard waste. I’m more confused by this contest than Brad Childress when he looks at the play calling sheet. Dallas finally came together last week, but only after the Giants did everything short of send out the “Tiny football league” in place of their starters (can anyone tell me exactly what that tiny football league segment that airs on Sunday night football actually is? It can’t be funny right? It’s not particularly heartwarming…I just don’t get it). Here’s one constant in Dallas: Dez Bryant is incredible, and he should absolutely eviscerate the Lion’s piss-poor secondary all by himself. For that reason, and that reason alone I’m going with America’s team (no sarcasm, I swear).
Washington Redskins @ Tennessee Titans (28-17)
At what point do teams stop throwing double-coverage on Moss? He hasn’t been “taking the top off the defense” in fourteen solid months…what makes you think he’s going to start now? Speaking of Moss, check this out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmJcUlrkMNg.
After watching The Skin’s apocalyptic meltdown last Monday night, two things are clear: Donovan McNabb is officially washed up (although moving from DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin to Santanna Moss and…Washington’s other receiver tends to make anyone look washed up) and Washington’s defense is painfully slow. After two tough losses you would think Tennessee would come out firing, and I don’t think the Redskins have the capability to stop them. Side note: How much money does Dan Snyder give Moss when he eventually signs him over the summer, 50 million, 60 million?
Arizona Cardinals @ Kansas City Chiefs (31-10)
I haven’t stopped riding Kansas City at home all season…no reason to stop now. If they are indeed a playoff team, they need to beat the Cards’ to regain the top spot in the miserable west. Look for them to do just that against the league’s 28th ranked rushing defense.
Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings (20-17)
I’m tempted to pick the Vikings here; their last big game of the year (probably), big time rivalry, Brett Favre’s last hurrah, a roaring home crowd (where the D-line usually plays well), and the return of Sidney Rice all add up to an upset. Green Bay is the better team but the previously lifeless Vikings know how much this game means to a certain dong-picture-taking quarterback and will come out with enough fire and passion to pull out the nail biter they almost had against the Pack several weeks ago.
Houston Texans @ New York Jets (33-20)
Remember all those “Texans have arrived!” stories you read earlier in the season? Seems like a long time ago, right? It’s impossible to trust them with a defense that is playing so poorly a half decent High School team could put up 40. And look at it this way, New York hasn’t had a dominate performance since they blew out Buffalo in week four, doesn’t it feel like this could be one of those games? Be ready for those “Mark Sanchez leads race for MVP” headlines after he throws four TD’s and put’s Houston’s season to bed.
Oakland Raiders @ Pittsburgh Steelers (26-20)
Oakland is everyone’s cute upset pick of the week. I’ve read 7,000 articles touting how their defense matches up well with Pittsburg’s and that McFadden should have a strong day…I don’t buy it. Pittsburgh is still one of the 6 or 7 best teams in the league, and Oakland is not (I think). Steelers get it done in a close one. (Side note: how long can the Raiders keep this good vibe going for? Week 12, week 13? They will implode by the end of the season, and you can take that to the bank).
Baltimore Ravens @ Carolina Panthers (35-9)
Brian St. Pierre starting for Carolina…what? John Fox is moving into Wade Phillips, Brad Childress territory after that move. He’s basically giving Carolina management a giant middle finger with starting a thirty year old journeyman who has never started an NFL game. Why not give Tony Pike the call to better evaluate what he can do? The St. Pierre move is completely illogical…it’s not like the Panthers are fighting for a playoff spot.
Cleveland Browns @ Jacksonville Jaguars (30-10)
Jacksonville has the better record, but is the worse team…welcome to the NFL! Peyton Hillis should put up some monster numbers against this defense; meanwhile David Garrard is due for one of his patented stinkers. A classic Jags-looking-like-they-could-sneak-into-the-postseason-but-oh-yeah-they-suck game.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ San Francisco 49ers (16-13)
As much as I hate myself for it, I’m tentatively jumping on the San Francisco bandwagon (population: me). Call me Jed York, but why can’t the 49ers win the division? Troy Smith has given them a little extra something, and they actually look a football team now. As much as I also like the Bucs San Fran pulls out a close win at home, thanks to some late game heroics by none other than the great Troy Smith.
Seattle Seahawks @ New Orleans Saints (38-13)
Seattle on the road, with a banged up Matt Hasselbeck against a rejuvenated Saints team with the return of Reggie Bush…you tell me what’s gonna’ happen.
Atlanta Falcons @ St. Louis Rams (19-17)
This isn’t an easy win by any stretch but there are certain games potential one-two seeds need to gut out…and this is one of them. St. Louis has played really well at home, but their only really solid win came against a Charger’s team that was a lot different a couple weeks ago. This game we’ll be close, and I trust Matt Ryan in these close ones more than Bradford. Advantage: Atlanta
Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots (34-27)
Indianapolis is really banged up right now, and Peyton Manning has finally come back down to Earth (479 yards, 1 Touchdown, 2 interceptions, 5 sacks last 2 games). Besides the Cleveland game the Pat’s defense has played really well…mostly because the offense has been putting up points which have allowed the D to play with the lead, very important for a young defense. Meanwhile Indy’s defense hasn’t played so well; if New England can successfully block Freeney and Mathis along the edges they will be able to put up huge passing numbers. Like all their previous contests this game will be extremely close, but the Pats are primed for the win.
New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles (35-24)
New York’s defense looked a step to slow against the Cowboys…was that a product of a bad game, or is it a real weakness? New York better hope it was a fluke as they’re going up against the most explosive offense in the league Sunday Night. If the G-Men can regain top form along the defensive line then they have a real chance to frustrate, and stop Vick. You could see against the Colts that Vick occasionally looked vulnerable when Freeney and Mathis were able to get free so the Giants pass rush will be key. Ultimately I think the Eagles are too fast for New York, and the Giants won’t be able to keep pace offensively. In other words, I’ll keep riding the Vick-wagon until it cools down…
Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers (41-24)
Put it this way: How can Philip Rivers not put up 350 passing yards and 3 touchdowns against Denver’s hideous defense? The Chargers should win based simply on an equally explosive offense and a much better D, but never underestimate what an atrocious kicking game can do to ones chances…
Last Week: 7-7
Overall: 75-53
Upset of the Week: Minnesota Vikings OVER Green Bay Packers
Lock of the Week: New England Patriots OVER Indianapolis Colts
Pounding of the Week: Baltimore Ravens OVER Carolina Panthers
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Thursday Night Pick
Chicago Bears @ Miami Dolphins (23-17)
If there’s one thing we’ve gleaned from these terrible Thursday night game it’s that the home team has a more distinct advantage than usual. Even though Miami has been a bit subpar at home I still think it’s an important advantage for them. Chicago’s offensive line had a strong showing against Minnesota, but they will have a very hard time trying to block Cameron Wake…one of the better pass rushers in the league. And with no semblance of a ground game what so ever, the Bears will have to throw, throw, and throw some more. And don’t underestimate Tyler Thigpen who has played well when he’s been given the opportunity to start…I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see him play better than Chad Henne has this season. Bottom line of the game…I trust Jay Cutler less than I would trust Brad Childress to do my math homework, so yeah, I’ll go with the Dolphins.
If there’s one thing we’ve gleaned from these terrible Thursday night game it’s that the home team has a more distinct advantage than usual. Even though Miami has been a bit subpar at home I still think it’s an important advantage for them. Chicago’s offensive line had a strong showing against Minnesota, but they will have a very hard time trying to block Cameron Wake…one of the better pass rushers in the league. And with no semblance of a ground game what so ever, the Bears will have to throw, throw, and throw some more. And don’t underestimate Tyler Thigpen who has played well when he’s been given the opportunity to start…I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see him play better than Chad Henne has this season. Bottom line of the game…I trust Jay Cutler less than I would trust Brad Childress to do my math homework, so yeah, I’ll go with the Dolphins.
The Portland Debacle
Marcus Dupree, Len Bias, Bo Jackson, Drazen Petrovic…the best that never were. Brandon Roy…the best that was and then wasn’t. An eighty million contract, over 5,500 points in four years, clutch shot after clutch shot, the ability to single handily dominate games…words that once described one of the rising stars of the NBA. But now the sad truth has been revealed…Roy’s knees are failing him, and there is no solution.
Roy has had knee problems throughout his five year career…and has admitted that his left knee has been drained of fluid every year he’s played in the league. His left knee needed arthroscopic surgery in 2008 while his meniscus needed to be operated on last April. But his knees aren’t getting any better…only worse. Here’s the problem: Roy has no meniscus left in his knee joints. What does that even mean? Meniscus is defined as: a disk of cartilage that serves as a cushion between the ends of bones that meet at a joint. In terms of basketball there’s nothing to absorb the pounding associated with the act of running and jumping. And the lack of meniscus is the reason Roy’s knees have had to be drained twice this season.
Blazer’s team doctor Don Roberts called it an “arthritic knee” and Roy commented that the problem is bone on bone, and it would be something he would have to deal with for the rest of his career. Gulp. That’s not something any basketball fan (never mind those poor Blazer fans) wants to hear.
It’s pretty evident if you’ve watched a few Portland games this season that Brandon Roy is not near the player he was even a year ago. Once one of the most explosive, athletic, and exciting superstars in the league…Roy has been reduced to a second and third option on the team. Whereas he used to be given the ball at the top of the key and asked to break his man down one on one-the first and best scoring option on the team-Roy now has to settle for mid-range jumpers and three-pointers…a pretty sad state for a guy who used to blow past defenders and earn his keep by getting to the line (nearly seven trips a game last year).
I’m sure Roy can continue to be an effective player in the NBA; he’s a fantastic jump shooter and hits three pointers at a decent clip…but I fear his days as a superstar/alpha dog are over. What NBA all-star relies solely on his jump shot…albeit a young, 26 year old? Portland will do everything they can to maximize Roy’s effectiveness…they’ll rest him more, he will continue to have treatment on his knee, but it’s clear to the Blazer’s he is no longer a guy who can carry their franchise.
And that’s precisely where the issue lies. Portland signed Roy to an 82 million contract extension two summers ago…13 million a year. Brandon Roy at the peak of his powers is obviously worth every cent of the 82 million, but not a Brandon Roy playing on two severely hobbled knees. The Blazers are in a very tricky spot; it was reported that over the summer, when Portland began work on signing Roy to the contract extension, that some in the organization wanted to trade him. The idea was obviously rejected at some point and they went on to extend his contract, but the evidence is there that the Blazers are well aware of the cloudy future surrounding their beloved franchise player.
It’s been almost 600 words and I’ve yet to mention the most recent injury woes in the increasingly depressing tale of 2007 number one draft pick Greg Oden. I have one question: God, what vendetta do you have against the Portland Trailblazers? Who didn’t have high hopes for Oden? A former number one overall pick…a seven footer, a guy possessing all the tools to be the league’s next dominant big man. Yet out of a possible 246 games (regular season), Oden has played in 82…and started 60. And he was off to such a promising start last year; it actually looked like things were coming together for him. Considering the success the Blazers have had without Oden in the lineup I doubt Portland will make any effort to resign him.
The Portland Trailblazers are between a rock and a hard place; a beloved franchise player is now a mere shadow of his former self with no chance of regaining his past explosiveness. Yet, he is only in the second year of an 82 million extension and is already one of Oregon’s most beloved athletes ever. The Blazers failed to make the hard choice last summer when they should have forced Roy to test the waters of restricted free agency.
The fate of a franchise rests on the hobbled knees of a fading star…and the once bright future is fading fast.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Week 10 Power Rankings
1. New England Patriots
I haven’t seen Quarterback Tom Brady that fiery and emotionally invested in a long time…that can only mean good things for the New England Patriots. I guess Brady isn’t as Hollywood as everyone was beginning to believe…
2. New York Jets
The Jets just won two road overtime games in a row…an NFL first. Is that a good thing or a bad thing?
3. Atlanta Falcons
Roddy White is an absolute beast and Matty Ice is earning his nickname…if Atlanta can get home field advantage through the postseason they’re in good shape.
4. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens might not be the best team in the league…but they sure can hock a loogie. I’m not sure how great Joe Flacco is…and that’s not good.
5. Philadelphia Eagles
I could gush about Michael Vick for another 2,000 words…but I already did that a couple of weeks ago.
6. Green Bay Packers
It looks like Green Bay will peak at just the right time, but first they get to officially send Brett Favre into retirement…
7. Indianapolis Colts
Peyton Manning is the mad scientist of football…it doesn’t matter who’s on the receiving end of his passes, he’ll make it work. Still waiting for when the apocalyptic level of injuries catch up with the Colts…waiting…still waiting…and still waiting…
8. Pittsburgh Steelers
Who would have ever expected The Patriot’s offense to finally start clicking against the vaunted Steeler’s defense?...is anyone else getting tired of those awful Troy Polamalu hair commercials?
9. New Orleans Saints
Could Drew Brees have inexplicably sucked for several weeks because of the upcoming birth if his son…football players are human, to, right?
10. New York Giants
Is Tom Coughlin the funniest coach to watch in the NFL?...I think so. There is something to be said about losing to the Dallas Cowboys; I would rather lose to the Buffalo Bills…at least they care.
11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Josh Freeman is really, really good and this team wins football games. An 11-5 finish is not out of the question.
12. Tennessee Titans
Has Randy Moss aged that much in 11 months? What happened to the guy who fed off negative energy so well he turned it into 150 yard, two TD games? And note to the Titans: I know you are trying to keep Chris Johnson fresh for later in the year, but there won’t be a later if he isn’t more involved. He’s Chris frickin’ Johnson!
13. Chicago Bears
If you showed someone who had absolutely no knowledge of football a montage of every Bears play of the season, told them they had played nine games, and asked them to guess what their record was, what would they say? 3-6, 4-5?
…I have to try that.
14. Oakland Raiders
Tell every Washington Redskin fan you know that Jason Campbell’s quarterback rating is six points better than Donovan McNabb’s…great fun for all.
15. Miami Dolphins
Chad Henne angered the football Gods, it’s the only explanation. Oh, and the Miami Dolphins have rushed for 104.4 yards per game (19th) while the Patriots have rushed for 106.7 yards per game (17th). New England’s two best backs are undrafted free agents Ben-Jarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead, while Miami’s are 2nd overall pick Ronnie Brown and 5th overall pick Ricky Williams. So that’s why the fish are 5-4…
16. San Diego Chargers
Still wondering how a special team’s unit can be so bad…wouldn’t you think those guys are playing their hearts out just to remain on the roster? Is it really that hard?
17. Kansas City Chiefs
Was Tod Haley pissed at Andy Reid for running up the score? Would he have shaken his hand? Two questions we will never know…but here are two answers I do know: Matt Cassel and Dwayne Bowe are only putting up monster numbers because of how far they’ve fallen behind in games, and the Chief's defense (once the strength of the team) now sucks…
18. Jacksonville Jaguars
Did Gus Johnson’s head explode after that crazy Hail-Mary? Can Gus Johnson follow me around for the rest of my life and do a voice over for every exciting thing that happens to me?
There he goes…He approaches the female…OH MY GOD, THEY’RE TALKING! She’s smiling…a slight smirk, good stuff so far. Very good on the approach, she seems really invested in this conversation…good stu-OHHHHHHHHH, THEY’VE GOT THEIR PHONES OUT, HE’S GOT HER NUMBER!!!!! OH MYYYYY GODDDDDDDD!!!!!!!!!
19. San Francisco 49ers
Jed York may not go down as the stupidest football man of 2010 after all, thanks to Dan Snyder and the emergence of Troy Smith.
20. Seattle Seahawks
Matt Hasselbeck seems to give this team a different edge; they certainly play roughly 5,483 times better when he’s at the helm. Maybe Charlie Whitehurst really is that bad?
21. St. Louis Rams
It’s amazing that Sam Bradford is doing as well as he is with the receiving corps he has…it's so bad that Peyton Manning just grimaced.
22. Cleveland Browns
This is the most bad-a$$ team in the league. Colt McCoy is ever calm, cool, and collected, Peyton Hillis looks like he could literally lift a truck, and Rob Ryan is about 13,000 times cooler looking than his brother, Rex. Not to mention they just finished blowing out the Saints and Pat’s, while coming within 16 seconds of tying the Jets.
23. Minnesota Vikings
Maybe Dan Snyder will sign Brett Favre to a six year, 120 million contract? Definitely not out of the question. And note to the Vikings: Maybe use Adrian Peterson? 17 attempts are not enough, even if you are losing…
24. Dallas Cowboys
Still confused as to why Dallas players will suddenly play there tales off for Jason Garret when they wouldn’t for Wade? Was he really that terrible of a person? Someone needs to make a documentary about this…
25. Washington Redskins
Is signing a washed up 34 year old quarterback to a monster contract worthy of a top 3 QB hours before a historic blowout in which the Eagles could have scored upwards of 70 points if they kept there foot on the gas past the third quarter the worst move in NFL history? Is that the worst run-on sentence you’ve ever read? Can the Redskins management be that bad?
26. Denver Broncos
I wanted to pick Denver this past Sunday…I was so close, so close to doing it. Someone remind me why I continue to ride the Chiefs as if they are a legit good team...
27. Houston Texans
Their defense is so terrible, so, so awful. That lucky Jag’s touchdown off the Hail Mary encapsulated the entire Texan’s defense in a nutshell. In fact, Houston’s defense is so bad I heard Dan Snyder is signing them all to four year 50 million contracts (that was one to many Snyder jokes wasn’t it…I’m sorry).
28. Cincinnati Bengals
I loved how Chad OchoCinco played Sunday; so much heart and grit and he left it all on the field. Carson Palmer on the other hand…I don’t need to say anything do I?
29. Detroit Lions
Detroit keeps breaking records at a historic pace…the 0-16 season, and then the 25 straight road losses. Congratulations! On a more serious note, the Lions aren’t half bad when Matt Stafford plays, but unfortunately, that’s one big if.
30. Buffalo Bills
How ironic is it that in the Bills probable last remaining chance to grab a win, they did it against the Detroit Lions? Also, who would you rather have: Donovan McNabb or Ryan Fitzpatrick?
31. Arizona Cardinals
I’m sorry Larry, really, I’m very, very sorry. Its ok, hopefully you will be on a winning team (or Dancing with the Stars) soon enough.
32. Carolina Panthers
Carolina could have had Colt McCoy over Jimmy Clausen. That sound? That’s Panther fans all around the country tightening the noose. Hey, at least your third string runningback was impressive Sunday. Now you’ve got three good ones!
I haven’t seen Quarterback Tom Brady that fiery and emotionally invested in a long time…that can only mean good things for the New England Patriots. I guess Brady isn’t as Hollywood as everyone was beginning to believe…
2. New York Jets
The Jets just won two road overtime games in a row…an NFL first. Is that a good thing or a bad thing?
3. Atlanta Falcons
Roddy White is an absolute beast and Matty Ice is earning his nickname…if Atlanta can get home field advantage through the postseason they’re in good shape.
4. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens might not be the best team in the league…but they sure can hock a loogie. I’m not sure how great Joe Flacco is…and that’s not good.
5. Philadelphia Eagles
I could gush about Michael Vick for another 2,000 words…but I already did that a couple of weeks ago.
6. Green Bay Packers
It looks like Green Bay will peak at just the right time, but first they get to officially send Brett Favre into retirement…
7. Indianapolis Colts
Peyton Manning is the mad scientist of football…it doesn’t matter who’s on the receiving end of his passes, he’ll make it work. Still waiting for when the apocalyptic level of injuries catch up with the Colts…waiting…still waiting…and still waiting…
8. Pittsburgh Steelers
Who would have ever expected The Patriot’s offense to finally start clicking against the vaunted Steeler’s defense?...is anyone else getting tired of those awful Troy Polamalu hair commercials?
9. New Orleans Saints
Could Drew Brees have inexplicably sucked for several weeks because of the upcoming birth if his son…football players are human, to, right?
10. New York Giants
Is Tom Coughlin the funniest coach to watch in the NFL?...I think so. There is something to be said about losing to the Dallas Cowboys; I would rather lose to the Buffalo Bills…at least they care.
11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Josh Freeman is really, really good and this team wins football games. An 11-5 finish is not out of the question.
12. Tennessee Titans
Has Randy Moss aged that much in 11 months? What happened to the guy who fed off negative energy so well he turned it into 150 yard, two TD games? And note to the Titans: I know you are trying to keep Chris Johnson fresh for later in the year, but there won’t be a later if he isn’t more involved. He’s Chris frickin’ Johnson!
13. Chicago Bears
If you showed someone who had absolutely no knowledge of football a montage of every Bears play of the season, told them they had played nine games, and asked them to guess what their record was, what would they say? 3-6, 4-5?
…I have to try that.
14. Oakland Raiders
Tell every Washington Redskin fan you know that Jason Campbell’s quarterback rating is six points better than Donovan McNabb’s…great fun for all.
15. Miami Dolphins
Chad Henne angered the football Gods, it’s the only explanation. Oh, and the Miami Dolphins have rushed for 104.4 yards per game (19th) while the Patriots have rushed for 106.7 yards per game (17th). New England’s two best backs are undrafted free agents Ben-Jarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead, while Miami’s are 2nd overall pick Ronnie Brown and 5th overall pick Ricky Williams. So that’s why the fish are 5-4…
16. San Diego Chargers
Still wondering how a special team’s unit can be so bad…wouldn’t you think those guys are playing their hearts out just to remain on the roster? Is it really that hard?
17. Kansas City Chiefs
Was Tod Haley pissed at Andy Reid for running up the score? Would he have shaken his hand? Two questions we will never know…but here are two answers I do know: Matt Cassel and Dwayne Bowe are only putting up monster numbers because of how far they’ve fallen behind in games, and the Chief's defense (once the strength of the team) now sucks…
18. Jacksonville Jaguars
Did Gus Johnson’s head explode after that crazy Hail-Mary? Can Gus Johnson follow me around for the rest of my life and do a voice over for every exciting thing that happens to me?
There he goes…He approaches the female…OH MY GOD, THEY’RE TALKING! She’s smiling…a slight smirk, good stuff so far. Very good on the approach, she seems really invested in this conversation…good stu-OHHHHHHHHH, THEY’VE GOT THEIR PHONES OUT, HE’S GOT HER NUMBER!!!!! OH MYYYYY GODDDDDDDD!!!!!!!!!
19. San Francisco 49ers
Jed York may not go down as the stupidest football man of 2010 after all, thanks to Dan Snyder and the emergence of Troy Smith.
20. Seattle Seahawks
Matt Hasselbeck seems to give this team a different edge; they certainly play roughly 5,483 times better when he’s at the helm. Maybe Charlie Whitehurst really is that bad?
21. St. Louis Rams
It’s amazing that Sam Bradford is doing as well as he is with the receiving corps he has…it's so bad that Peyton Manning just grimaced.
22. Cleveland Browns
This is the most bad-a$$ team in the league. Colt McCoy is ever calm, cool, and collected, Peyton Hillis looks like he could literally lift a truck, and Rob Ryan is about 13,000 times cooler looking than his brother, Rex. Not to mention they just finished blowing out the Saints and Pat’s, while coming within 16 seconds of tying the Jets.
23. Minnesota Vikings
Maybe Dan Snyder will sign Brett Favre to a six year, 120 million contract? Definitely not out of the question. And note to the Vikings: Maybe use Adrian Peterson? 17 attempts are not enough, even if you are losing…
24. Dallas Cowboys
Still confused as to why Dallas players will suddenly play there tales off for Jason Garret when they wouldn’t for Wade? Was he really that terrible of a person? Someone needs to make a documentary about this…
25. Washington Redskins
Is signing a washed up 34 year old quarterback to a monster contract worthy of a top 3 QB hours before a historic blowout in which the Eagles could have scored upwards of 70 points if they kept there foot on the gas past the third quarter the worst move in NFL history? Is that the worst run-on sentence you’ve ever read? Can the Redskins management be that bad?
26. Denver Broncos
I wanted to pick Denver this past Sunday…I was so close, so close to doing it. Someone remind me why I continue to ride the Chiefs as if they are a legit good team...
27. Houston Texans
Their defense is so terrible, so, so awful. That lucky Jag’s touchdown off the Hail Mary encapsulated the entire Texan’s defense in a nutshell. In fact, Houston’s defense is so bad I heard Dan Snyder is signing them all to four year 50 million contracts (that was one to many Snyder jokes wasn’t it…I’m sorry).
28. Cincinnati Bengals
I loved how Chad OchoCinco played Sunday; so much heart and grit and he left it all on the field. Carson Palmer on the other hand…I don’t need to say anything do I?
29. Detroit Lions
Detroit keeps breaking records at a historic pace…the 0-16 season, and then the 25 straight road losses. Congratulations! On a more serious note, the Lions aren’t half bad when Matt Stafford plays, but unfortunately, that’s one big if.
30. Buffalo Bills
How ironic is it that in the Bills probable last remaining chance to grab a win, they did it against the Detroit Lions? Also, who would you rather have: Donovan McNabb or Ryan Fitzpatrick?
31. Arizona Cardinals
I’m sorry Larry, really, I’m very, very sorry. Its ok, hopefully you will be on a winning team (or Dancing with the Stars) soon enough.
32. Carolina Panthers
Carolina could have had Colt McCoy over Jimmy Clausen. That sound? That’s Panther fans all around the country tightening the noose. Hey, at least your third string runningback was impressive Sunday. Now you’ve got three good ones!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Week 10 Picks
Baltimore Ravens @ Atlanta Falcons (27-21)
What to make of this game? Since this is a Thursday night game, both squads are coming off short weeks of practice. These teams would seem to match up well together, with both possessing solid passing games backed up by strong rushing attacks while one team has a great pass defense (Baltimore) along with sub-bar rushing defense and the other (Atlanta) has a very strong rush defense along with a bad pass defense. I worry about Atlanta because the only other top-flight team they beat was the Saints (and they won only because of two botched chip-shot field goals). Sure, they beat Tampa Bay but no one would argue they’re on the same level as the Ravens. I’ll go with Baltimore based on the fact they should be able to throw well and there affinity for getting take-aways at the most opportune times (you can thank Ed Reed for that).
Detroit Lions @ Buffalo Bills (31-24)
I was 65% sure the Bills would get there first win against the Bears; I’m 85% sure they’ll get it against Detroit. Detroit is a frisky team, but let’s face it, there completely different when Mathew Stafford isn’t under center. And with Sean Hill not returning for a couple weeks, Drew Stanton will be starting at Quarterback…that’s bad.
Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears (24-3)
Just in case Brad Childress happens to read my blog, here’s his game plan to beat the Bears. It goes like this: Blitz Jay Cutler, send pass rushers after Jay Cutler, attack the offensive line, swarm the line of scrimmage. It’s not that hard, and if Jared Allen doesn’t get at least two sacks in the game I’ll have to start wondering if it’s really Jared Allen.
New York Jets @ Cleveland Browns (20-14)
After Rex Ryan did this: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/Picture-Jets-coach-Rex-Ryan-dresses-up-like-his?urn=nfl-284222 I don’t know what to think anymore. For all of Rex Ryan’s failings you have to admit, he’s a pretty funny guy. Now, to ride or not to ride the Brown’s bandwagon (never in a million years did I think I would ever say that)? After two stunning performances against both the Saints and the Patriots it’s hard to imagine why it couldn’t happen again. But Cleveland winning three straight?-preposterous. After two very subpar performances in a row I think the Jets will finally put together a complete game. As much as I would enjoys a Jets loss I just don’t see it happening.
Tennessee Titans @ Miami Dolphins (20-13)
At 4-4 Miami is in a rough place…another loss means they need to run the table the rest of the way; an unlikely situation especially with the way QB Chad Henne is playing. Last week I bought into the “must win game” corollary in thinking Miami would beat Baltimore…we all saw how that prediction worked. With that said I’m officially off the Dolphin’s bandwagon…Chad Henne just isn’t good enough. Meanwhile I’m a believer in the Titans, coming off the bye week with the recent acquisition of Randy Moss. I think Chris Johnson will have a great day going up against a middling rush defense along with Randy Moss taking a defender out of the box.
Cincinnati Bengals @ Indianapolis Colts (27-14)
The Bengals continue to excel in garbage time while the TOcho show continues to be unwatchable…two constants of the 2010 season. Meanwhile Peyton Manning keeps playing at an MVP level while throwing to wideouts who probably never thought they would get a chance to catch a pass in the NFL…never mind passes from Manning. This matchup is the perfect elixir for what ails the Colts…look for Peyton Manning to put up big numbers against a struggling defense and Carson Palmer to once again suck until he’s down by 20…
Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars (38-31)
At least coach Kubiak has a vote of confidence from owner Bob McNair (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/11/09/texans-owner-says-gary-kubiak-is-doing-a-good-job/) because he doesn’t from just about anywhere else. Another case of a talented team underachieving because they play soft and suffer from questionable decision making…two things you can blame on the coach.
Meanwhile, nobody knows when the Jaguars will show up to play; they’re one of the most inconsistent teams in the league. Considering they blew out the Cowboys last week they seem due to put up a stinker. Houston should be able to put up a ton of points on their defense…but this one could come down to who has the ball last.
Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (24-10)
Could someone remind the Panther’s they had the best rushing attack in the league last year?...thanks. Talk about a negative turnaround, Carolina is 26th in rushing yards per game this season. Tampa Bay is simply a better all-around team…especially at home. I see no conceivable reason to think Carolina even has a chance in this game.
Kansas City Chiefs @ Denver Broncos (16-10)
I still feel like Denver is going to surprise the football world sometime in the coming weeks…with the explosive passing game they’ve got I think they’re frisky. Could this be the week? I think it’s definitely in play, but I may be too scarred from my botched upset picks from last Sunday. Still, Kansas City should be able to run all over the Broncos with Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones. Expect them to win the time of position battle handily and contain Denver in the red zone.
Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals (16-6)
Charlie Whitehurst will be starting this game, and Seattle is on the road…need I say more?
UPDATE: Matt Hasselbeck is healthy enough to get the start...but the Seahawks are still terrible on the road, and the Cardinals have played decent as of late...still like the Cards'.
Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants (34-17)
It’s the Dallas Cowboys…need I say more?
St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers (17-13)
It seems like quarterback Troy Smith has given the 49er’s a shot in the arm…let’s hope Mike Singletary doesn’t botch this one and start Alex Smith instead. St. Louis has a middling defense (especially against the pass) which could bode well for San Fran’s offense. Another point to consider is St. Louis’s struggles on the road for the season where it hasn’t won a game yet. I don’t think their first road win will come this week either as the 49ers are playing better (and harder) as of late…and with Troy Smith under center anything is possible (I say that only with a touch of sarcasm).
New England Patriots @ Pittsburgh Steelers
I’m a huge homer, that fact has become apparent I’m sure. But I looked at this game as objectively as possible and I think both teams have an equal chance of pulling out the W. The Steelers offense has been sluggish all season, and they don’t seem fully acclimated to Ben Roethlisberger just yet. With several critical injuries across the O-line it seems big Ben is a bit vulnerable. If the Pats can generate a pass rush Sunday, and key on the run as well as they have all season (let’s hope Cleveland was an aberration) they have a great chance of winning. Meanwhile, the Pat’s offense has also struggled lately with wideouts seemingly unable to get open and the running game being stymied. With how great the Steeler’s D has been it will be a match-up to watch. Logic says go with the home team, but I like New England coming off an embarrassing defeat to the Browns.
Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins (28-17)
Vick is playing too well right now, and Philadelphia’s offense is too explosive for a Washington defense that is ranked 20th against the pass. There also seems to be some friction in Washington’s locker room which never bodes well for a team. I wouldn’t be surprised if this was a blowout…
Overall: 68-46
Last Weeks: 7-6
Upset of the week: Buffalo Bills OVER Detroit Lions (yes, that would be an upset)
Lock of the week: Minnesota Vikings OVER Chicago Bears
Pounding of the week: New York Giants OVER Dallas Cowboys
What to make of this game? Since this is a Thursday night game, both squads are coming off short weeks of practice. These teams would seem to match up well together, with both possessing solid passing games backed up by strong rushing attacks while one team has a great pass defense (Baltimore) along with sub-bar rushing defense and the other (Atlanta) has a very strong rush defense along with a bad pass defense. I worry about Atlanta because the only other top-flight team they beat was the Saints (and they won only because of two botched chip-shot field goals). Sure, they beat Tampa Bay but no one would argue they’re on the same level as the Ravens. I’ll go with Baltimore based on the fact they should be able to throw well and there affinity for getting take-aways at the most opportune times (you can thank Ed Reed for that).
Detroit Lions @ Buffalo Bills (31-24)
I was 65% sure the Bills would get there first win against the Bears; I’m 85% sure they’ll get it against Detroit. Detroit is a frisky team, but let’s face it, there completely different when Mathew Stafford isn’t under center. And with Sean Hill not returning for a couple weeks, Drew Stanton will be starting at Quarterback…that’s bad.
Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears (24-3)
Just in case Brad Childress happens to read my blog, here’s his game plan to beat the Bears. It goes like this: Blitz Jay Cutler, send pass rushers after Jay Cutler, attack the offensive line, swarm the line of scrimmage. It’s not that hard, and if Jared Allen doesn’t get at least two sacks in the game I’ll have to start wondering if it’s really Jared Allen.
New York Jets @ Cleveland Browns (20-14)
After Rex Ryan did this: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/Picture-Jets-coach-Rex-Ryan-dresses-up-like-his?urn=nfl-284222 I don’t know what to think anymore. For all of Rex Ryan’s failings you have to admit, he’s a pretty funny guy. Now, to ride or not to ride the Brown’s bandwagon (never in a million years did I think I would ever say that)? After two stunning performances against both the Saints and the Patriots it’s hard to imagine why it couldn’t happen again. But Cleveland winning three straight?-preposterous. After two very subpar performances in a row I think the Jets will finally put together a complete game. As much as I would enjoys a Jets loss I just don’t see it happening.
Tennessee Titans @ Miami Dolphins (20-13)
At 4-4 Miami is in a rough place…another loss means they need to run the table the rest of the way; an unlikely situation especially with the way QB Chad Henne is playing. Last week I bought into the “must win game” corollary in thinking Miami would beat Baltimore…we all saw how that prediction worked. With that said I’m officially off the Dolphin’s bandwagon…Chad Henne just isn’t good enough. Meanwhile I’m a believer in the Titans, coming off the bye week with the recent acquisition of Randy Moss. I think Chris Johnson will have a great day going up against a middling rush defense along with Randy Moss taking a defender out of the box.
Cincinnati Bengals @ Indianapolis Colts (27-14)
The Bengals continue to excel in garbage time while the TOcho show continues to be unwatchable…two constants of the 2010 season. Meanwhile Peyton Manning keeps playing at an MVP level while throwing to wideouts who probably never thought they would get a chance to catch a pass in the NFL…never mind passes from Manning. This matchup is the perfect elixir for what ails the Colts…look for Peyton Manning to put up big numbers against a struggling defense and Carson Palmer to once again suck until he’s down by 20…
Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars (38-31)
At least coach Kubiak has a vote of confidence from owner Bob McNair (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/11/09/texans-owner-says-gary-kubiak-is-doing-a-good-job/) because he doesn’t from just about anywhere else. Another case of a talented team underachieving because they play soft and suffer from questionable decision making…two things you can blame on the coach.
Meanwhile, nobody knows when the Jaguars will show up to play; they’re one of the most inconsistent teams in the league. Considering they blew out the Cowboys last week they seem due to put up a stinker. Houston should be able to put up a ton of points on their defense…but this one could come down to who has the ball last.
Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (24-10)
Could someone remind the Panther’s they had the best rushing attack in the league last year?...thanks. Talk about a negative turnaround, Carolina is 26th in rushing yards per game this season. Tampa Bay is simply a better all-around team…especially at home. I see no conceivable reason to think Carolina even has a chance in this game.
Kansas City Chiefs @ Denver Broncos (16-10)
I still feel like Denver is going to surprise the football world sometime in the coming weeks…with the explosive passing game they’ve got I think they’re frisky. Could this be the week? I think it’s definitely in play, but I may be too scarred from my botched upset picks from last Sunday. Still, Kansas City should be able to run all over the Broncos with Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones. Expect them to win the time of position battle handily and contain Denver in the red zone.
Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals (16-6)
Charlie Whitehurst will be starting this game, and Seattle is on the road…need I say more?
UPDATE: Matt Hasselbeck is healthy enough to get the start...but the Seahawks are still terrible on the road, and the Cardinals have played decent as of late...still like the Cards'.
Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants (34-17)
It’s the Dallas Cowboys…need I say more?
St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers (17-13)
It seems like quarterback Troy Smith has given the 49er’s a shot in the arm…let’s hope Mike Singletary doesn’t botch this one and start Alex Smith instead. St. Louis has a middling defense (especially against the pass) which could bode well for San Fran’s offense. Another point to consider is St. Louis’s struggles on the road for the season where it hasn’t won a game yet. I don’t think their first road win will come this week either as the 49ers are playing better (and harder) as of late…and with Troy Smith under center anything is possible (I say that only with a touch of sarcasm).
New England Patriots @ Pittsburgh Steelers
I’m a huge homer, that fact has become apparent I’m sure. But I looked at this game as objectively as possible and I think both teams have an equal chance of pulling out the W. The Steelers offense has been sluggish all season, and they don’t seem fully acclimated to Ben Roethlisberger just yet. With several critical injuries across the O-line it seems big Ben is a bit vulnerable. If the Pats can generate a pass rush Sunday, and key on the run as well as they have all season (let’s hope Cleveland was an aberration) they have a great chance of winning. Meanwhile, the Pat’s offense has also struggled lately with wideouts seemingly unable to get open and the running game being stymied. With how great the Steeler’s D has been it will be a match-up to watch. Logic says go with the home team, but I like New England coming off an embarrassing defeat to the Browns.
Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins (28-17)
Vick is playing too well right now, and Philadelphia’s offense is too explosive for a Washington defense that is ranked 20th against the pass. There also seems to be some friction in Washington’s locker room which never bodes well for a team. I wouldn’t be surprised if this was a blowout…
Overall: 68-46
Last Weeks: 7-6
Upset of the week: Buffalo Bills OVER Detroit Lions (yes, that would be an upset)
Lock of the week: Minnesota Vikings OVER Chicago Bears
Pounding of the week: New York Giants OVER Dallas Cowboys
Monday, November 8, 2010
The Michael Vick Show
Three years ago, who could ever imagine the day where Michael Vick, then implicated in an illegal interstate dog fighting ring, would outplay fellow quarterback Peyton Manning. As crazy as that sounds that’s exactly what happened Sunday afternoon. Vick has turned his life around and his career is coming full circle. Once a much hyped athlete nabbed by Virginia Tech, a hybrid quarterback-halfback many thought would revolutionize the game, turned convicted felon and one of the most hated people in America.
While never a particularly great passer (75.6 passer rating through six years in Atlanta) he flummoxed defenses with his running ability. As fast and quick as the swiftest runningbacks in the league he was able to nimbly avoid pressure and jet down the field for huge gains when he didn’t see anything from his receivers (and too often even when he did). In fact he has an incredible 7.2 yard rushing average for his career and has galloped for gains of 32 yards or greater in each of his pro seasons. Vick’s career year came in 2006 when he threw for 2,500 yards (75.7 passer rating) and ran for over 1,000 yards along with two rushing TD’s. How incredible is throwing for 2000 yards and rushing for 1000 in a single season?...so incredible that Michael Vick is the only athlete to accomplish that feat in the history of the NFL.
But after that career year was when Vick’s life spiraled out of control. The details are needless…everyone knows how Vick was implicated in dog fighting charges, spent 21 months in prison, and became the most hated athlete in America until Tiger Woods came along. But I’m not here to harp on Vick’s shortcomings…rather his incredible turnaround from NFL zero to NFL hero.
Even before Michael Vick’s indictment he was known as somewhat of a “bad-boy” in the National Football league. Remember when he flipped off 50,000 Saints fans in the Superdome, or when a couple of his buddies were arrested for marijuana possession while driving a vehicle registered in Vick’s name? Or how about when a friend in Vick’s entourage was caught stealing a watch at Hartsfield International airport? It was readily apparent that Vick wasn’t keeping the right company.
But after his prison sentence something clicked in Vick’s head…I don’t know if it was his bankruptcy, his venomous reception from the public, or something else but he started to make all the right moves after he was released from his 21 month stay in the clink. Perhaps the biggest reason for his remarkable turnaround was the mentoring he received from former head coach Tony Dungy…widely considered one of the greatest teachers and mentors in the NFL. With help from Dungy and Quarterback Donovan McNabb Vick was given an opportunity with the Philadelphia Eagles as the back-up QB.
Even getting another chance in the NFL was implausible enough for Vick, as everyone put his career to bed after his conviction. Never mind how difficult it would be to convince a team to take a chance on a thirty year old felon who has a bad history of misbehavior…think of the physical barriers.
Vick doesn’t play like most other quarterbacks in the game. Think guys like Tom Brady, Phillip Rivers, Brett Favre, Peyton Manning…prototypical pocket passers that rely on football IQ, accuracy, and technique to have success. Vick is unlike any other quarterback the game has ever seen…he relies not on passing accuracy (which is spotty at best), nor any other “normal” QB trait that many consider critical for an NFL passer to succeed. Rather, Vick depends on his improbable athleticism and rocket arm to lead teams to victory. Quarterbacks are famous for being able to play well into their thirties (and 40’s in several cases) purely because the demands of their position don’t rely on athletic skills…the only thing that really needs to hold up is arm strength which sticks with passers for a long time.
Also not to be taken lightly was the physical punishment Vick absorbed during his career because of his playing style. Other quarterbacks stick to the pocket and are only hit a couple times a game. Not Vick…it was almost maddening at times how instead of running out of bounds Mike would tuck the ball and continue down field just to get a few extra yards. The same type of things that made him incredibly unique also induced extreme wear and tear on his body…probably why he only played one season of sixteen games.
Fast forward to 2009, Vick’s first season back in the NFL. It was fairly non-descript (86 passing yards, one TD, 95 rushing yards, two TD’s), and it was evident that while his athleticism remained largely intact (to the surprise of many) he was extremely rusty as a passer (to the surprise of no one). He seemed destined to warm the bench for McNabb while occasionally getting the chance to QB some wildcat packages. The story took another twist when Donovan was traded to division rival Washington over the summer only to have the Eagles put all their faith in young quarterback Kevin Kolb; this seemed a pretty natural move as Kolb played well in two games he started in 2009 and was very young…full of promise.
Now jump to 2010 with Kolb ready to start for the Eagles…only to suffer a concussion in week one. Vick was thrust into the starting role and had a fantastic game in a close loss to Green Bay (101.9 QB rating, 103 yards on the ground) ultimately winning him the starting job. Vick has continued playing at a high level throughout the season despite a bump in the road (cracked ribs that caused him to miss two weeks). Check out his stats: 1017 passing yards, seven touchdowns, 60.8% completions for a 105.3 rating, 261 rushing yards for a 7.3 average and 2 touchdowns.
Vick has never had a season quite like this one. He’s never had a quarterback rating in the 80’s, never mind one in the 100’s…nor has he ever gone such a long span without an interception. He’s pulling a Brett Favre on us (without the phone pictures of his dong) putting up his best statistical season at the most improbable time.
As I was watching the Birds go toe to toe with the Colt’s on Sunday it occurred to me that there couldn’t be a better fit for Vick than the Philadelphia Eagles. It’s a perfect marriage…Vick is surrounded by speed and playmaking ability; something he was never privy to in his six years with Atlanta. DeSean Jackson is the ideal wideout for Vick…an exceptional deep threat with blazing speed who is also great on the end around and in the screen game…a born playmaker. Vick’s also got Jeremy Maclin, Jason Avant, and LeSean McCoy…three more guys who are a threat to score every time they touch the ball. With all these weapons to throw to is it any wonder Vick is having a career year? He’s never had a legit deep threat…something that a guy with that kind of arm needs. With Vick under center the Eagles have the most explosive offense in the game.
Michael Vick did something reprehensible, that’s no question, but that phase of his life is behind him. Vick has done everything correctly since that incident; he’s surrounded himself with the right people, worked himself into football shape, and became an advocate for animal rights. He even sounds more articulate in interviews. He seems to care more about his public image, and finally understands what it means to be in the spotlight. Vick is back to being one of the most exiting athletes in the world…just the way it should be. With the merging of one of the most exciting players in football history with the most explosive offense in the NFL today, we’re in for a fun ride.
Welcome back Michael Vick…I missed you.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Week 9 Picks...Criminally Bad
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons (24-17)
If Tampa Bay is really a postseason caliber team they need to win this game. The two Quality opponents they’ve played-Pittsburgh and New Orleans-blew the Bucs out by a combined 69-17. Meanwhile the combined record of all the teams they have defeated is 13-24, with the only semi-decent opponent being the St. Louis Rams (not a misprint, I swear). They haven’t once blown out an inferior opponent which is a pretty good sign they aren’t an elite team, anyway…the picture will clear up Sunday. Atlanta has lost one home game since Matt Ryan has been quarterback…something which doesn’t bode well for Tampa. The Buc’s have the worst rush defense in the NFL according to the football outsiders so look for Michael Turner to have a big day, and Ryan to play as well as ever.
Chicago Bears @ Buffalo Bills (23-13)
The Bills gave the Patriots, Chiefs, and Ravens everything they could handle. Something’s got to give…and I think it will against a Bears team that couldn’t block a Pop Warner defensive line.
New England Patriots @ Cleveland Browns (20-10)
This looks like a potential trap game for the Pat’s as they face two very tough contests upcoming when they play Pittsburgh and Indianapolis. But New England has always been good at taking it one week at a time, so I like for their balanced offensive attack to be too much for the Browns to handle. Plus, the Browns have been winning and staying close in games because of turnovers…something the Patriots don’t do very often.
New York Jets @ Detroit Lions (27-20)
I can see Detroit getting a surprise win but Ryan and company have to be a little furious after their embarrassing loss to Green Bay last week, right? Look for them to take their anger out on the Lions…
New Orleans Saints @ Carolina Panthers (31-10)
Carolina played the Saints really tough when they last met several weeks ago, but this is a much different Saints team with a reinvigorated defense and a better Drew Brees. I don’t see how Carolina wins…though I didn’t think I’d ever see Brees throw four picks in a game either…
Miami Dolphins @ Baltimore Ravens (23-20)
Miami is on the road so that automatically means they will play well…but Baltimore is coming off a bye. Hmmmm…is this case of an overvalued team in Baltimore hosting a way undervalued team in the Dolphins…maybe. I think Miami is finally coming together, so I like them to win a close win against the Ravens and claw back into the AFC playoff picture.
San Diego Chargers @ Houston Texans (34-27)
Toughest game of the week to pick. Here is my reasoning: The Texans are home, Andre Johnson is probable in the injury report, they’re due for a really good game to convince everyone that they’re contenders, and it looks like Antonio Gates won’t play which means Rivers will be throwing to his 23rd string receivers (or something like that).
Arizona Cardinals @ Minnesota Vikings (28-7)
Minnesota is in complete disarray as Chilly seems to be doing his best work to try to get fired. Luckily for them, the QB-less Cardinals are coming to town…and it shouldn’t be pretty. Look for Minnesota’s vaunted defensive line to have some solid production and the Vikings to win big.
New York Giants @ Seattle Seahawks (27-9)
Seattle looks like a completely different team at home than on the road, but this week will be they’re toughest home contest yet. They won’t be able to block the Giant’s fearsome front four, which means Charlie Whitehurst will see more turf than open field in his first start…welcome to the NFL Charlie!!!
Indianapolis Colts @ Philadelphia Eagles (31-24)
I don’t care who Peyton Manning has around him…he makes anyone look good. No matter how much instinct tells me to go with the Eagles coming off they’re bye with a healthy DeSean Jackson and Michael Vick I can’t do it because Peyton Manning scares me that much.
Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders (17-10)
Oakland isn’t really that good…everyone needs to calm down. They beat a terrible Denver team that turns out isn’t actually good, and hosted a Seahawks team that is just awful on the road. The Chiefs will administer a dose of reality (sorry you had to read that).
Dallas Cowboys @ Green Bay Packers (27-13)
My affair with the Dallas Cowboys is over…OVER!!! I will never pick them to win another football game…The Packers should be able to take care of business against a lost looking Wade Phillips who is doing everything but wearing a sweater that says “Fire me Jerry Jones!”…
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals (21-10)
I’m on to you Carson Palmer! Look for Palmer to throw three picks on Sunday, and Polamalu to return one to the endzone. Steelers win big…
Last Week: 10-3
Overall: 61-40
Upset of the Week: Miami Dolphins OVER Baltimore Ravens
Pounding of the Week: New Orleans Saints OVER Carolina Panthers
Lock of the Week: Kansas City Chiefs OVER Oakland Raiders
If Tampa Bay is really a postseason caliber team they need to win this game. The two Quality opponents they’ve played-Pittsburgh and New Orleans-blew the Bucs out by a combined 69-17. Meanwhile the combined record of all the teams they have defeated is 13-24, with the only semi-decent opponent being the St. Louis Rams (not a misprint, I swear). They haven’t once blown out an inferior opponent which is a pretty good sign they aren’t an elite team, anyway…the picture will clear up Sunday. Atlanta has lost one home game since Matt Ryan has been quarterback…something which doesn’t bode well for Tampa. The Buc’s have the worst rush defense in the NFL according to the football outsiders so look for Michael Turner to have a big day, and Ryan to play as well as ever.
Chicago Bears @ Buffalo Bills (23-13)
The Bills gave the Patriots, Chiefs, and Ravens everything they could handle. Something’s got to give…and I think it will against a Bears team that couldn’t block a Pop Warner defensive line.
New England Patriots @ Cleveland Browns (20-10)
This looks like a potential trap game for the Pat’s as they face two very tough contests upcoming when they play Pittsburgh and Indianapolis. But New England has always been good at taking it one week at a time, so I like for their balanced offensive attack to be too much for the Browns to handle. Plus, the Browns have been winning and staying close in games because of turnovers…something the Patriots don’t do very often.
New York Jets @ Detroit Lions (27-20)
I can see Detroit getting a surprise win but Ryan and company have to be a little furious after their embarrassing loss to Green Bay last week, right? Look for them to take their anger out on the Lions…
New Orleans Saints @ Carolina Panthers (31-10)
Carolina played the Saints really tough when they last met several weeks ago, but this is a much different Saints team with a reinvigorated defense and a better Drew Brees. I don’t see how Carolina wins…though I didn’t think I’d ever see Brees throw four picks in a game either…
Miami Dolphins @ Baltimore Ravens (23-20)
Miami is on the road so that automatically means they will play well…but Baltimore is coming off a bye. Hmmmm…is this case of an overvalued team in Baltimore hosting a way undervalued team in the Dolphins…maybe. I think Miami is finally coming together, so I like them to win a close win against the Ravens and claw back into the AFC playoff picture.
San Diego Chargers @ Houston Texans (34-27)
Toughest game of the week to pick. Here is my reasoning: The Texans are home, Andre Johnson is probable in the injury report, they’re due for a really good game to convince everyone that they’re contenders, and it looks like Antonio Gates won’t play which means Rivers will be throwing to his 23rd string receivers (or something like that).
Arizona Cardinals @ Minnesota Vikings (28-7)
Minnesota is in complete disarray as Chilly seems to be doing his best work to try to get fired. Luckily for them, the QB-less Cardinals are coming to town…and it shouldn’t be pretty. Look for Minnesota’s vaunted defensive line to have some solid production and the Vikings to win big.
New York Giants @ Seattle Seahawks (27-9)
Seattle looks like a completely different team at home than on the road, but this week will be they’re toughest home contest yet. They won’t be able to block the Giant’s fearsome front four, which means Charlie Whitehurst will see more turf than open field in his first start…welcome to the NFL Charlie!!!
Indianapolis Colts @ Philadelphia Eagles (31-24)
I don’t care who Peyton Manning has around him…he makes anyone look good. No matter how much instinct tells me to go with the Eagles coming off they’re bye with a healthy DeSean Jackson and Michael Vick I can’t do it because Peyton Manning scares me that much.
Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders (17-10)
Oakland isn’t really that good…everyone needs to calm down. They beat a terrible Denver team that turns out isn’t actually good, and hosted a Seahawks team that is just awful on the road. The Chiefs will administer a dose of reality (sorry you had to read that).
Dallas Cowboys @ Green Bay Packers (27-13)
My affair with the Dallas Cowboys is over…OVER!!! I will never pick them to win another football game…The Packers should be able to take care of business against a lost looking Wade Phillips who is doing everything but wearing a sweater that says “Fire me Jerry Jones!”…
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals (21-10)
I’m on to you Carson Palmer! Look for Palmer to throw three picks on Sunday, and Polamalu to return one to the endzone. Steelers win big…
Last Week: 10-3
Overall: 61-40
Upset of the Week: Miami Dolphins OVER Baltimore Ravens
Pounding of the Week: New Orleans Saints OVER Carolina Panthers
Lock of the Week: Kansas City Chiefs OVER Oakland Raiders
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Enough Said...
Here's to one of the greatest Boston Celtics of all time. Last night was just another example of what a clutch player our man Paul Pierce is...congratulations.
The other side of KG
Kevin Garnett is the biggest trash talker in the NBA; that fact is no secret. It’s also no mystery that Garnett has been known to pick on the little guys. Not the Shaq’s or the Tim Duncan’s of the league rather the less well know players such as Jose Calderon, Pau Gasol (when he first entered the league), and Jerryd Bayless. It’s both disappointing and disturbing that a man of KG’s stature would stoop so low as to crush the hopes of these young guys who probably idolized Garnett throughout their basketball careers…until they met the dark side of Kevin Garnett’s psyche.
Plenty of players (like everyone) talks trash on the court; it’s just a side effect of being in a hyper competitive environment. Things happen; people say things they really wish they didn’t in the heat of the moment. Anyone who has taken part in some competitive activity or event knows exactly what I’m talking about, and for a guy that is as hyper competitive as KG it must be about 1,238 times harder to control those tendencies. Just look at the guy as he warms up: pounding his chest, ramming his head against hard objects, screaming at no one in particular…he’s certifiably insane, but in terms of basketball, in a good way. He channels his boundless energy into suffocating defense, rebounding, and otherwise running around the court like someone snuck Ritalin into his Gatorade.
But on November third it was reported that Garnett called Piston’s forward Charlie Villanueva a “cancer patient” because of the lack of hair anywhere on his body, which is actually due to a disease Villanueva has called Alopecia. It is not life threatening but it causes the afore mentioned symptom of lack of hair. Calling Charlie a “cancer patient” would seem to break a basic human-to-human code that goes beyond basketball. Thousands of men and woman die to cancer every year, and making fun of someone because they resemble a cancer patient is both uncouth and appalling…the kind of joke someone makes where everyone stands around awkwardly and then walks away.
This most recent incident not only cements Kevin Garnett’s reputation as the biggest trash talker in the league but it is another instance in a long line of bullying examples. Anyone remember the strange incident when Kevin Garnett went down on all fours and barked at Jerryd Bayless like a dog, or what about when he clapped in Jose Calderon’s face? Just type in “Kevin Garnett bully”, or “Kevin Garnett fight” in YouTube and you will get even more examples.
Now I’m going to go off the beaten a path a bit. In no way am I condoning what Kevin Garnett (according to Villanueva) said but he’s not alone in calling other athletes offensive names. There is rampant use of the “N” word in the NBA (one example: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6KyUcm8qwU) and it isn’t hard to imagine that players say much worse things to each other that never come to the public’s attention because an athlete decided to tweet the insult. I’m not ready to assume yet that Charlie Villanueva was completely innocent either. We’ve yet to hear another side of the story; what if Charlie said something equally offensive to Garnett or what if they have some history between each other that we don’t know about? Although Kevin’s comments were uncouth, offensive, and a little bit disturbing let’s not automatically peg him as a malicious villain because he called a rival athlete a name. I have a hunch that stuff like this happens all the time yet most athletes don’t feel the need to tell the world that they were called something by a rival player.
Bottom line: As a respectful human being you can’t call someone a “cancer patient”. To many good people have died from the horrific disease and it lies in the can’t-make-jokes-about-or-use-as-an-insult camp; it’s just such a sensitive and sorrowful topic that hits way to close to home for many people. This most recent incident only reinforces what we already know about KG and his abrasive, sometimes cruel personality. He’s got a competitive disorder which often leads to outlandish actions and offensive insults...and this time he crossed the line. But Charlie, next time…leave it on the court.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Week 8 Revelations
1. David Garrard tells us who the Cowboys really are…
Jacksonville Quarterback David Garrard had this to say about the Cowboys Sunday, “It just looked like they weren’t into the game like an NFL team should be.” AMEN! He also said he noticed a “woe-is-me” attitude coming from the Dallas players. That’s about as damning a quote as I have heard yet about the Cowboy’s crumbling season…yet it epitomizes everyone’s thoughts over the past couple of weeks quite nicely.
The worst part about watching Dallas play is how they don’t perform anywhere close to their potential. Miles Austin, a guy many were ready to crown as the best receiver in the game has dropped several very catchable balls over the past two weeks; something all-pro wideouts just don’t do. Roy Williams, who caught five touchdowns between weeks three and five has caught one pass for 21 yards over the past two games. Felix Jones, one of the most promising young backs in the league coming into the season has been outplayed by undrafted free agents such as Ben Jarvus Green-Ellis and dropped a pass yesterday that resulted in an interception. The veteran defense, an excellent unit last year, has been inconsistent to say the least. Allowing Jacksonville to score 35 points is inexcusable…
And to Jerry Jones: No one cares how much you have studied the effects of firing coaches mid-season…letting Wade Phillips remain on board sends the message that you are content with your team’s performance and are pleased with the job Wade has done. All the media pandering in the world won’t save you from that perception, unless you fire the coach that has led Dallas to this 1-6 record.
2. Raiders blowing out teams like the 07’ Patriots…
On one hand I’m happy for Raiders fans as they haven’t had anything (and I mean anything) to cheer for in a long time; yet on the other I can’t believe the year New England has their number one pick they likely will go 8-8 or better. Unbelievable. But I digress, a lot of good things can be taken out of the past two weeks: Darren McFadden has arrived in a big way, we’ve had a Darius Heyward-Bey sighting, Jason Campbell looks passable, and Rolando McLain continues to look like a solid first round draft pick (that’s a first). Next week’s contest against the Kansas City Chiefs will be very enlightening as we will see who is the better we-should-have-sucked but we-defied-all-expectations team.
3. My condolences to England…
Out of all the games played Sunday…Denver-San Francisco was the one that had to be in London?!?! Are you kidding me? Roger Goodel should make a formal apology to all the football fans of England as that game was an atrocity.
4. Getting hyped about the Lions…
I like watching this team, and in a couple of years I think they will be one of the best two or three squads in the NFC…assuming Mathew Stafford can avoid injury. Detroit’s front four is fearsome, and Ndamukong Suh is looking like one of the best picks of last year’s draft. Forget defensive rookie of the year, I think Suh is in contention for defensive player of the year. In Calvin Johnson they have arguably the league’s top wideout, and an explosive young halfback in rookie Jahvid Best. Up and down their roster they have young talent full of potential…something every GM building a championship contender strives for. I can’t wait until I actually looking forward to watching Detroit play on Thanksgiving!
5. Getting benched for Rex Grossman has to be the most insulting thing that can happen to a professional Quarterback…
Living in the D.C area I was subjected to all the hopes and good will of Redskin fans for the entire summer…and you can’t blame them; the team looked like it was primed for a good year with the acquisition of Quarterback Donovan McNabb and Head Coach Mike Shanahan. Eight weeks into the season the demeanor of Skin’s fans is anything but upbeat and hopeful. How can one have confidence in a team when its franchise Quarterback was benched for a guy who has thrown more interceptions than touchdowns throughout his career, and once accumulated a 1.3 QB rating in a regular season game? He knows the two minute offense better my a$$...Mother Teresa is a better liar than you Mike Shanahan. Shanahan simply wanted to send a message to McNabb to play better, but I think there are better (and less season destroying) ways of accomplishing it.
6. New England’s defense coming together…
If you look at this unit’s stats via NFL.com or the football outsiders you would think it’s the weak link of the team. And in some ways you would be right, but no one can deny that in big moments New England’s defense steps up and gets the job done…a hallmark of all Super Bowl winners over the past decade. The Saints didn’t win a championship last year with a dominant top five defense…rather an opportunistic one that was predisposed to making huge plays. These Patriots have a similar feel, and unlike last year you can count on the defense to play its best when the game is on the line. Patriot fans have to feel good about such a young defense playing cohesively with only seven weeks in the books…things are looking up for this much maligned unit.
7. The Rams hit the jackpot…
How many teams are wishing they had the opportunity to take Sam Bradford now? He looks like one of the best rookie quarterbacks of the past several years; on par with Matt Ryan and better than Flacco, Stafford etc. Seriously, look at his stats: 58.6 completion percentage, 1,674 yards, and 11 touchdowns along with eight picks. So, for his rookie season he’s on pace to throw for 3,348 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions all while his best receiver is out for the season and he is throwing to the likes of Laurent Robinson and Danny Amendola. The Rams finally have a reason to hope as they have a quarterback for the future…a cornerstone of the franchise.
8. Randy Moss needs a hug…
Randy Moss fooled us all; in his 3.25 seasons with New England he lulled us to sleep and convinced the world that his diva-like ways were behind him. He finally seemed like a mature, hardworking professional that was willing to leave it all on the field…well, jokes on us. Randy is the same old Randy, who knows what magic Belichick worked to get the most out of Moss? Maybe it was finally playing with a hall of fame QB, or the strength of the locker room, or maybe Moss could sense Belickick’s football genius and realized this was his best chance to win a ring. Whatever it was Randy Moss was the model football player for three solid years but has unraveled in recent months. He gave his first candid interview in September after three years of keeping his mouth shut and following the “Patriot Way”. But keeping quiet is not in his nature and he proved it on Sunday. Look what happens to the guy when he goes to a team with a weak locker room and bumbling coach: he has insane post-game interviews, criticizes everyone but himself, puts the blame on others, and even complains about the food: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AofPnMqFhKYfbkKETEFzR_DXScR_?slug=ms-mossbehavior110210.
I have pity for Randy, one of the most exciting players to ever enter the gridiron, as it seems he has entered the T.O phase of his career in which he jumps from team to team willing to take a chance on the once great, now diminished star.
9. Carson’s Palmer unofficial dropped pick count increases again…
Unofficial theory: based on Carson Palmer’s incredible luck over the first half of the season karma dictates it turns over the latter half. My bold prediction: Carson throws 13+ picks weeks nine threw seventeen. The second touchdown Palmer through Sunday was the epitome of his lucky season: the defensive back was in position to pick him off only to drop the pass; except this time T.O was in the perfect place at the perfect time, grabbed the ball as it bounced off the DB’s hands, and strolled in for the touchdown. I was lucky enough to see Palmer’s face after the play, and believe me; he was just as shocked as the rest of us…
10. Start believing??? (Or continue believing for those smarter than myself)...
The Kansas City Chiefs have a better record through seven weeks than both the Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings combined. I just don’t know what to believe anymore. And here comes the real shocker: The Chiefs are ranked the number one team in the NFL based on the Football Outsiders DVOA system (For those of you who don’t know what that means, it’s an extremely complex way of ranking football teams and individual players based on every single play that occurs being compared to a baseline average. Essentially instead of just adding up total yards for a team it also factors in the situation such as down and location while placing a points system on the “success” of the play. It’s very accurate and much better than the NFL’s method: http://www.footballoutsiders.com/info/methods). Anyway, the point everyone needs to understand is that the Chiefs are contenders…and definitely a top seven or eight team.
Why are they so good? Balance. We all know about their number one ranked rushing attack, but the real surprise has been the effectiveness of their passing attack. Matt Cassel has only been sacked only eight times in seven games, and has ten touchdowns to three picks: good for a 90.4 passer rating. Their defense has been solid so far, and Eric Berry looks like a great pick. When the Chiefs are able to control the clock with the ground game and moderate Cassel’s attempts they are very hard to beat. I only worry about there come from behind capabilities, as although Cassel has been very efficient, I don’t know how he handles having to bring his team back from a double digit deficit.
Jacksonville Quarterback David Garrard had this to say about the Cowboys Sunday, “It just looked like they weren’t into the game like an NFL team should be.” AMEN! He also said he noticed a “woe-is-me” attitude coming from the Dallas players. That’s about as damning a quote as I have heard yet about the Cowboy’s crumbling season…yet it epitomizes everyone’s thoughts over the past couple of weeks quite nicely.
The worst part about watching Dallas play is how they don’t perform anywhere close to their potential. Miles Austin, a guy many were ready to crown as the best receiver in the game has dropped several very catchable balls over the past two weeks; something all-pro wideouts just don’t do. Roy Williams, who caught five touchdowns between weeks three and five has caught one pass for 21 yards over the past two games. Felix Jones, one of the most promising young backs in the league coming into the season has been outplayed by undrafted free agents such as Ben Jarvus Green-Ellis and dropped a pass yesterday that resulted in an interception. The veteran defense, an excellent unit last year, has been inconsistent to say the least. Allowing Jacksonville to score 35 points is inexcusable…
And to Jerry Jones: No one cares how much you have studied the effects of firing coaches mid-season…letting Wade Phillips remain on board sends the message that you are content with your team’s performance and are pleased with the job Wade has done. All the media pandering in the world won’t save you from that perception, unless you fire the coach that has led Dallas to this 1-6 record.
2. Raiders blowing out teams like the 07’ Patriots…
On one hand I’m happy for Raiders fans as they haven’t had anything (and I mean anything) to cheer for in a long time; yet on the other I can’t believe the year New England has their number one pick they likely will go 8-8 or better. Unbelievable. But I digress, a lot of good things can be taken out of the past two weeks: Darren McFadden has arrived in a big way, we’ve had a Darius Heyward-Bey sighting, Jason Campbell looks passable, and Rolando McLain continues to look like a solid first round draft pick (that’s a first). Next week’s contest against the Kansas City Chiefs will be very enlightening as we will see who is the better we-should-have-sucked but we-defied-all-expectations team.
3. My condolences to England…
Out of all the games played Sunday…Denver-San Francisco was the one that had to be in London?!?! Are you kidding me? Roger Goodel should make a formal apology to all the football fans of England as that game was an atrocity.
4. Getting hyped about the Lions…
I like watching this team, and in a couple of years I think they will be one of the best two or three squads in the NFC…assuming Mathew Stafford can avoid injury. Detroit’s front four is fearsome, and Ndamukong Suh is looking like one of the best picks of last year’s draft. Forget defensive rookie of the year, I think Suh is in contention for defensive player of the year. In Calvin Johnson they have arguably the league’s top wideout, and an explosive young halfback in rookie Jahvid Best. Up and down their roster they have young talent full of potential…something every GM building a championship contender strives for. I can’t wait until I actually looking forward to watching Detroit play on Thanksgiving!
5. Getting benched for Rex Grossman has to be the most insulting thing that can happen to a professional Quarterback…
Living in the D.C area I was subjected to all the hopes and good will of Redskin fans for the entire summer…and you can’t blame them; the team looked like it was primed for a good year with the acquisition of Quarterback Donovan McNabb and Head Coach Mike Shanahan. Eight weeks into the season the demeanor of Skin’s fans is anything but upbeat and hopeful. How can one have confidence in a team when its franchise Quarterback was benched for a guy who has thrown more interceptions than touchdowns throughout his career, and once accumulated a 1.3 QB rating in a regular season game? He knows the two minute offense better my a$$...Mother Teresa is a better liar than you Mike Shanahan. Shanahan simply wanted to send a message to McNabb to play better, but I think there are better (and less season destroying) ways of accomplishing it.
6. New England’s defense coming together…
If you look at this unit’s stats via NFL.com or the football outsiders you would think it’s the weak link of the team. And in some ways you would be right, but no one can deny that in big moments New England’s defense steps up and gets the job done…a hallmark of all Super Bowl winners over the past decade. The Saints didn’t win a championship last year with a dominant top five defense…rather an opportunistic one that was predisposed to making huge plays. These Patriots have a similar feel, and unlike last year you can count on the defense to play its best when the game is on the line. Patriot fans have to feel good about such a young defense playing cohesively with only seven weeks in the books…things are looking up for this much maligned unit.
7. The Rams hit the jackpot…
How many teams are wishing they had the opportunity to take Sam Bradford now? He looks like one of the best rookie quarterbacks of the past several years; on par with Matt Ryan and better than Flacco, Stafford etc. Seriously, look at his stats: 58.6 completion percentage, 1,674 yards, and 11 touchdowns along with eight picks. So, for his rookie season he’s on pace to throw for 3,348 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions all while his best receiver is out for the season and he is throwing to the likes of Laurent Robinson and Danny Amendola. The Rams finally have a reason to hope as they have a quarterback for the future…a cornerstone of the franchise.
8. Randy Moss needs a hug…
Randy Moss fooled us all; in his 3.25 seasons with New England he lulled us to sleep and convinced the world that his diva-like ways were behind him. He finally seemed like a mature, hardworking professional that was willing to leave it all on the field…well, jokes on us. Randy is the same old Randy, who knows what magic Belichick worked to get the most out of Moss? Maybe it was finally playing with a hall of fame QB, or the strength of the locker room, or maybe Moss could sense Belickick’s football genius and realized this was his best chance to win a ring. Whatever it was Randy Moss was the model football player for three solid years but has unraveled in recent months. He gave his first candid interview in September after three years of keeping his mouth shut and following the “Patriot Way”. But keeping quiet is not in his nature and he proved it on Sunday. Look what happens to the guy when he goes to a team with a weak locker room and bumbling coach: he has insane post-game interviews, criticizes everyone but himself, puts the blame on others, and even complains about the food: http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AofPnMqFhKYfbkKETEFzR_DXScR_?slug=ms-mossbehavior110210.
I have pity for Randy, one of the most exciting players to ever enter the gridiron, as it seems he has entered the T.O phase of his career in which he jumps from team to team willing to take a chance on the once great, now diminished star.
9. Carson’s Palmer unofficial dropped pick count increases again…
Unofficial theory: based on Carson Palmer’s incredible luck over the first half of the season karma dictates it turns over the latter half. My bold prediction: Carson throws 13+ picks weeks nine threw seventeen. The second touchdown Palmer through Sunday was the epitome of his lucky season: the defensive back was in position to pick him off only to drop the pass; except this time T.O was in the perfect place at the perfect time, grabbed the ball as it bounced off the DB’s hands, and strolled in for the touchdown. I was lucky enough to see Palmer’s face after the play, and believe me; he was just as shocked as the rest of us…
10. Start believing??? (Or continue believing for those smarter than myself)...
The Kansas City Chiefs have a better record through seven weeks than both the Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings combined. I just don’t know what to believe anymore. And here comes the real shocker: The Chiefs are ranked the number one team in the NFL based on the Football Outsiders DVOA system (For those of you who don’t know what that means, it’s an extremely complex way of ranking football teams and individual players based on every single play that occurs being compared to a baseline average. Essentially instead of just adding up total yards for a team it also factors in the situation such as down and location while placing a points system on the “success” of the play. It’s very accurate and much better than the NFL’s method: http://www.footballoutsiders.com/info/methods). Anyway, the point everyone needs to understand is that the Chiefs are contenders…and definitely a top seven or eight team.
Why are they so good? Balance. We all know about their number one ranked rushing attack, but the real surprise has been the effectiveness of their passing attack. Matt Cassel has only been sacked only eight times in seven games, and has ten touchdowns to three picks: good for a 90.4 passer rating. Their defense has been solid so far, and Eric Berry looks like a great pick. When the Chiefs are able to control the clock with the ground game and moderate Cassel’s attempts they are very hard to beat. I only worry about there come from behind capabilities, as although Cassel has been very efficient, I don’t know how he handles having to bring his team back from a double digit deficit.
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