On Monday I was ready to jump on the Steeler's bandwagon and talk exclusively about "the Steel City toughness", "underdogs", "David and Goliath", Randy Moss being a premadonna and how the Pats can't run the rock to win a ball game. But, as it turns out...there is absolutely no room left on the bandwagon. From ESPN analysts to no-name-guarantee-making Steeler's CBs the Pitt wagon is so over crowded that the only thing left for it to do is bust at the seams.
Why am I the one playing devils advocate when I say..."Moss is still the best WR in the league" and "the Pats are clearly a better team"? Why am I the only one mentioning that Mike Tomlin is a rookie head coach who has already been out-smarted by folks in the desert? Isn't this the same team that missed the playoffs last year and then lost their best LB, the very same team who lost to the lowly Jets somewhere in the swamps of Jersey?
For me the Pitt/Pats game is simply a painful catch 22...I wanted everyone to hate the Pats. Hell, I spelled their name Patriots* for 3 weeks. I got what I wanted, football fans everywhere outside NE hate the Pats. The hate then became an obsession which has caused pundits collectively to blow NE's minor flaws out of proportion. America loves hearing about "the blue print" to beat the Patriots, the low red-zone efficiency and the lack of rushing yards piled up. Blinded by minor flaws and love for the "underdog" we expect the Steelers to win this game. As far as Vegas is concerned the Pats are still the "favorite" but it sure doesn't feel like it.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Power Rankings
1. Patriots – Came out of a close one, now the talk has to shift to this. Either this game exploited weaknesses in the Patriots game plan or this something that the Patriots will correct and the Eagles game was a fluke...only time will tell.
2. Cowboys – The thumping they put on the Jets for Skanksgiving was exactly what they should have done, they are the best in the NFC right now no doubt about it....until they play Thursday however.
3. Packers – This team is playing like a machine, the defense has been playing at a level that no other team is playing right now. this Thursdays game is a great one...
(Lets take a time out to get pissed off at teh NFL network, the NFL for some reason has decided they dont make enough money. So they try to incorporate the NFL Network, a all NFL all the time channel. It isnt a terrible idea, they could make some money off that but to deny football fans the chance to see games because they want more money is absurd. Same goes for the Cable networks but i can't really fault them since the NFL is expecting a premium for presenting the channel that the networks cant give unless they package it at a higher pay.)...AWFUL)
4. Jaguars – They will beat the Colts this weekend, they have the running, and Garrard has been a great QB this year. Amazing call to drop Leftwhich and start the guy who has Zero int's this year. very exciting team to watch.
5. Colts – Their injuries are killing them. I would not be suprised in the least to see Garrard and the Jags run over the colts. Jacksonville may be too much for them
6. Steelers – You cant really do much about that game Monday night, what a mess. Although having a guy like Willie Parker should have countered that a little. but it was a mess. Pats Steelers will be a great game when that finally comes.
7. Chargers – took care of business last weekend, did what they should have done and blown out their opponent. Rivers also took a swing at the crowd telling them to shut up before halftime...that cant be good, QB is yelling at the crowd to stop booing them...
8. Browns – Took care of business with the Texans coming in, this team just looks great. Anderson is playing like a champ and is getting great play out of Braylong Edwards and Kellen Winslow. Winslow has finally arrived....about time
9. Buccaneers – They have the division locked up. Earnest Graham is playing well, although Garcia looked a little iffy with the back thing (problems of starting an old QB) but I still like this team.
10. Giants – The loss to the Vikings was terrible, Manning looked awful throwing 4 interceptions three running back for touchdowns. he looked like Daunte Culpepper throwing to Moss out there...they need to bounce back since they have a pretty tough schedule left. They will still make the playoffs but they have no chance at the division now.
11. Seahawks – They barely got away with a win last week, Branch came back and had a good game receiving for 98 yards and a TD but they were playing the Rams, who are also much improved with Steven Jackson much healthier.
12. Lions – Due to weakness of the NFC they still have a full game lead in the race for the WC. they are going to need to win some important games to stay ahead of the curve
13. Titans - Their losses are piling up, it may be over for this bunch. VY has been a bust this year.
14. Redskins – Their loss to Tampa was harsh, but they were the lesser team. The loss of Sean Taylor is awful. It is a terrible thing for a man as young as he was. Our deepest thoughts go out to his family and friends.
15. Denver – Loss to Chicago may have sent them back to the doghouse. What a great game though.
honorable mention. - this section is a little different since these teams played well but has no chance of getting into the playoffs, no real order.
Philly – What a great game plan Andy Reid came up with, it was smart and exploited weaknesses in the Patriots team.
San Fran – Frank Gore finally came out to play. 116 rushing 2 tds and 98 receiving...Fantasy owners better hope that continues.
2. Cowboys – The thumping they put on the Jets for Skanksgiving was exactly what they should have done, they are the best in the NFC right now no doubt about it....until they play Thursday however.
3. Packers – This team is playing like a machine, the defense has been playing at a level that no other team is playing right now. this Thursdays game is a great one...
(Lets take a time out to get pissed off at teh NFL network, the NFL for some reason has decided they dont make enough money. So they try to incorporate the NFL Network, a all NFL all the time channel. It isnt a terrible idea, they could make some money off that but to deny football fans the chance to see games because they want more money is absurd. Same goes for the Cable networks but i can't really fault them since the NFL is expecting a premium for presenting the channel that the networks cant give unless they package it at a higher pay.)...AWFUL)
4. Jaguars – They will beat the Colts this weekend, they have the running, and Garrard has been a great QB this year. Amazing call to drop Leftwhich and start the guy who has Zero int's this year. very exciting team to watch.
5. Colts – Their injuries are killing them. I would not be suprised in the least to see Garrard and the Jags run over the colts. Jacksonville may be too much for them
6. Steelers – You cant really do much about that game Monday night, what a mess. Although having a guy like Willie Parker should have countered that a little. but it was a mess. Pats Steelers will be a great game when that finally comes.
7. Chargers – took care of business last weekend, did what they should have done and blown out their opponent. Rivers also took a swing at the crowd telling them to shut up before halftime...that cant be good, QB is yelling at the crowd to stop booing them...
8. Browns – Took care of business with the Texans coming in, this team just looks great. Anderson is playing like a champ and is getting great play out of Braylong Edwards and Kellen Winslow. Winslow has finally arrived....about time
9. Buccaneers – They have the division locked up. Earnest Graham is playing well, although Garcia looked a little iffy with the back thing (problems of starting an old QB) but I still like this team.
10. Giants – The loss to the Vikings was terrible, Manning looked awful throwing 4 interceptions three running back for touchdowns. he looked like Daunte Culpepper throwing to Moss out there...they need to bounce back since they have a pretty tough schedule left. They will still make the playoffs but they have no chance at the division now.
11. Seahawks – They barely got away with a win last week, Branch came back and had a good game receiving for 98 yards and a TD but they were playing the Rams, who are also much improved with Steven Jackson much healthier.
12. Lions – Due to weakness of the NFC they still have a full game lead in the race for the WC. they are going to need to win some important games to stay ahead of the curve
13. Titans - Their losses are piling up, it may be over for this bunch. VY has been a bust this year.
14. Redskins – Their loss to Tampa was harsh, but they were the lesser team. The loss of Sean Taylor is awful. It is a terrible thing for a man as young as he was. Our deepest thoughts go out to his family and friends.
15. Denver – Loss to Chicago may have sent them back to the doghouse. What a great game though.
honorable mention. - this section is a little different since these teams played well but has no chance of getting into the playoffs, no real order.
Philly – What a great game plan Andy Reid came up with, it was smart and exploited weaknesses in the Patriots team.
San Fran – Frank Gore finally came out to play. 116 rushing 2 tds and 98 receiving...Fantasy owners better hope that continues.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Power Rankings Week 12
One more team bites the dust....after a win?
1. Patriots – Best defense ever, definitely not. Best offense ever, probably not. Best football team ever, probably.
2. Cowboys – T.O. is happy through week 11. I have to think that will carry him into the post-season. Romo is on fire and the defense has stepped up their game. Scary.
3. Colts – Due to the injury factor I am going to drop team MasterCard down for the first time all season.
4. Steelers – Choke-job. They had a chance to snatch the number 3 spot and missed it. Also, missed a slim shot at home-field advantage.
5. Packers – I thought we would have seen “pick-happy” Favre at some point this season, if only for one game. He is in there somewhere.
6. Jaguars – Great running game + great defense + getting QB back = Playoffs…this equation is still true.
7. Giants – There is probably a large drop-off in ability between 6 and 7. Especially with Kiwanuka done for the season, and every RB hurting. Lucky for them they get an Adrian Peterson-less Vikings team at home. The Lions are very good at home, that truly was a quality win for the G-Men.
8. Titans – Who would have thought that the first time VY showed up to play QB the Titans would lose? It looks like they will miss out on the playoffs now due to their schedule. They really need the Browns to choke.
9. Chargers – Tough loss, but Jax is a better team which is why they don’t get dropped too far. The NFC West is going to be a roller-coaster to the end. I am really looking forward to it. (Why am I giving the Chargers a 9 ranking?...I think I would take them over any of the following teams this week)
10. Browns –The cupcake schedule is still in tact. The Browns just need to go out and take of business and they will be in.
11. Buccaneers – They have the division locked up. They are now playing to position themselves for the WC round.
12. Seahawks – Seahawks are getting some sort of consistency going which could make them a lot more dangerous in the playoffs.
13. Lions – Due to weakness of the NFC they still have a full game lead in the race for the WC. They will need to take at least one from the Pack.
14. Redskins – One of their two games with Dallas down and one to go. My prediction would be a dog fight between the Skins and Lions for the final playoff spot. At Tampa this week is a must win.
15. Denver – A dishonorable mention team from last week, but they saved their season on MNF. They don’t have to get over .500 to make the playoffs but they will have to sweep the last three games with their division. (Yes, I have moved them out of the grave, but judging where I ranked the Chargers you can tell I don't expect them to be breathing for long, lets just call Monday night's game "Night of the Living Dead")
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Dishonorable Mentions
Philly – The second dishonorable mention from last week moves into striking distance with a Redskins and Lions loss. Normally a surging team within 1 game of the WC spot would make the "living" cut. But logic would indicate they are still done…at NE and at Dal is too big a hill to climb. McNabb has gotten injured again in November (did he break the record for that?...instead of just his ankles).
Saints – The Saints are all but done in the chase for the playoffs. They have to win out. Which isn’t as impossible as it sounds, they have to beat Tampa at home in two weeks. Then it is smooth sailing until week 16 with the Eagles (who might be done at that point) at home.
Chiefs – The Chiefs are done.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Predictions for Skanksgiving Day:
Green Bay (-3)
Dallas (-14)
Indy (-11.5)
1. Patriots – Best defense ever, definitely not. Best offense ever, probably not. Best football team ever, probably.
2. Cowboys – T.O. is happy through week 11. I have to think that will carry him into the post-season. Romo is on fire and the defense has stepped up their game. Scary.
3. Colts – Due to the injury factor I am going to drop team MasterCard down for the first time all season.
4. Steelers – Choke-job. They had a chance to snatch the number 3 spot and missed it. Also, missed a slim shot at home-field advantage.
5. Packers – I thought we would have seen “pick-happy” Favre at some point this season, if only for one game. He is in there somewhere.
6. Jaguars – Great running game + great defense + getting QB back = Playoffs…this equation is still true.
7. Giants – There is probably a large drop-off in ability between 6 and 7. Especially with Kiwanuka done for the season, and every RB hurting. Lucky for them they get an Adrian Peterson-less Vikings team at home. The Lions are very good at home, that truly was a quality win for the G-Men.
8. Titans – Who would have thought that the first time VY showed up to play QB the Titans would lose? It looks like they will miss out on the playoffs now due to their schedule. They really need the Browns to choke.
9. Chargers – Tough loss, but Jax is a better team which is why they don’t get dropped too far. The NFC West is going to be a roller-coaster to the end. I am really looking forward to it. (Why am I giving the Chargers a 9 ranking?...I think I would take them over any of the following teams this week)
10. Browns –The cupcake schedule is still in tact. The Browns just need to go out and take of business and they will be in.
11. Buccaneers – They have the division locked up. They are now playing to position themselves for the WC round.
12. Seahawks – Seahawks are getting some sort of consistency going which could make them a lot more dangerous in the playoffs.
13. Lions – Due to weakness of the NFC they still have a full game lead in the race for the WC. They will need to take at least one from the Pack.
14. Redskins – One of their two games with Dallas down and one to go. My prediction would be a dog fight between the Skins and Lions for the final playoff spot. At Tampa this week is a must win.
15. Denver – A dishonorable mention team from last week, but they saved their season on MNF. They don’t have to get over .500 to make the playoffs but they will have to sweep the last three games with their division. (Yes, I have moved them out of the grave, but judging where I ranked the Chargers you can tell I don't expect them to be breathing for long, lets just call Monday night's game "Night of the Living Dead")
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Dishonorable Mentions
Philly – The second dishonorable mention from last week moves into striking distance with a Redskins and Lions loss. Normally a surging team within 1 game of the WC spot would make the "living" cut. But logic would indicate they are still done…at NE and at Dal is too big a hill to climb. McNabb has gotten injured again in November (did he break the record for that?...instead of just his ankles).
Saints – The Saints are all but done in the chase for the playoffs. They have to win out. Which isn’t as impossible as it sounds, they have to beat Tampa at home in two weeks. Then it is smooth sailing until week 16 with the Eagles (who might be done at that point) at home.
Chiefs – The Chiefs are done.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Predictions for Skanksgiving Day:
Green Bay (-3)
Dallas (-14)
Indy (-11.5)
In the Mix
The Washington Redskins signed WR Anthony Mix off of the NYG practice squad this week, why is this relevant? It's probably not.
However, Mix had a very strong preseason for the Giants and actually saw some time early in the season when Plax was down. He has freakish size and length and decent hands but for some reason never completely caught on. He will be reunited with his college QB, Jason Campbell in Washington. Judging by the amount of injuries and lack of production in the red-zone for the current Skins WRs, Anthony Mix is a long shot to have an impact this year. But someone to keep your eye on for next season.
However, Mix had a very strong preseason for the Giants and actually saw some time early in the season when Plax was down. He has freakish size and length and decent hands but for some reason never completely caught on. He will be reunited with his college QB, Jason Campbell in Washington. Judging by the amount of injuries and lack of production in the red-zone for the current Skins WRs, Anthony Mix is a long shot to have an impact this year. But someone to keep your eye on for next season.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Picks Week 11
Minny -4.5
Philly -9.5
SD +3.0
Cle -2.5
No -1.5
Tampa -3
GMen +2.5
GB -9.5
KC +14.5
Pitt -9.5
St. Loo -3.0
Seattle -5.5
Dal -11
NE -16
Tenn +2
Philly -9.5
SD +3.0
Cle -2.5
No -1.5
Tampa -3
GMen +2.5
GB -9.5
KC +14.5
Pitt -9.5
St. Loo -3.0
Seattle -5.5
Dal -11
NE -16
Tenn +2
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Power Rankings - Whats left of the NFL
After week 10 I am ready to leave my buried teams in the ground.
1. Patriots – Bye weeks are like wins in the NFL this season.
2. Colts – Peyton was terrible, that is not something you can count on every week. However, the loss of Freeney is going to be a factor for the remainder of the season. The Colts are still the #2 team in the NFL, but the drop off in talent comes before them now, instead of after them.
3. Cowboys – Everyone was talking about the improvements of the Giants defense from week 1 to week 10. But the Cowboys got a lot better too. They are even a better team than the one that played the Pats. Good enough to beat them…probably not. But no one will get accused of running up the score.
4. Steelers – Who really trusts Big Ben on a week to week basis…not me. If Ben continues to improve and the defense continues to make the big plays, they can beat anyone, anywhere.
5. Packers – It looks like the game at Dallas 2 weeks from today will be for home-field advantage in the NFC playoffs. It could spell disaster for Dallas, if they have to go to Lambeau.
6. Jaguars – Great running game + great defense + getting QB back = Playoffs.
7. Titans – When will VY show up? It better be before the playoffs or they are gonna be an easy out. Judging by the Browns schedule (see below) they may need him sooner than that.
8. Giants – They got beat by a better team at home. Somehow that leads to every sports writer in NY slaughtering Eli Manning. The big reason this team won 6 in a row, and is better than they were last year is because they are healthier and they commit fewer penalties. They are not good enough to overcome themselves. Both the offense and the defense need to show up to beat Detroit at home.
9. Lions – Amazing at home, brutal on the road. If the Giants do not get to Kitna he is going to tear the defense apart. This game has a chance to be a blow out either way. Who can make more big plays?
10. Chargers – Huge, huge win. That erases last week’s loss to Minny. The Chargers have a tough road ahead, but the conference is in their hands.
11. Browns – This team is a real threat to the Titans and Jaguars for the final WC spot. They have a cupcake schedule left. Please do not be surprised if this team finishes 12-4 or 11-5, the latter will be necessary to make the playoffs as a WC in the AFC.
12. Buccaneers – The Bucs have lost all of their games to strong teams and taken care of the bad ones. The best team on the reminder of their schedule is Wash at home. I present you with your NFC South Champion.
13. Seahawks – Seahawks sans Shaun Alexander > Seahawks with Shaun Alexander.
14. Redskins – This team has literally set the record for second half collapses for the last 3 years. Congrats. They are still in the WC hunt with NYG and Det. But with two games against Dal remaining, in addition to one @ Tampa, they are the long shot.
15. Saints – Disappointing loss for them. 5-4 and 4-5 is a huge difference right now in the NFC. They are just not consistent enough on offense or defense to compete.
16. Chiefs – Losing LJ was the end of their season. They have @Indy, @Denver and SD remaining which makes their scheduled one of the toughest in the playoff hunt.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dishonorable Mentions
Denver – Still have a shot at the division. But they are an average-at-best football team.
Eagles – They made a run like this last year, and they are getting healthy enough to make people remember that. However, the schedule sets up brutally with @ NE and @ Dallas sprinkled in.
What does it all mean:
AFC Byes: Indy, Pats
NFC Byes: Boys, Pack
AFC 1st Rd Matchup: Charger at Steelers
AFC 1st Rd Matchup: Titans at Jax (although I need VY to show up soon so my 3 AFC South teams in the playoffs prediction will come true. Right now they are even money with the Browns)
NFC 1st RD Matchup: NYG at Tampa
NFC 1st RD Matchup: Detroit at Seattle
Soon to come - NYG at Detroit breakdown.
NFL Lines - Buy or Sell. (Note: Last week was omitted due to terrible matchups... know when to hold'em know when to fold'em)
1. Patriots – Bye weeks are like wins in the NFL this season.
2. Colts – Peyton was terrible, that is not something you can count on every week. However, the loss of Freeney is going to be a factor for the remainder of the season. The Colts are still the #2 team in the NFL, but the drop off in talent comes before them now, instead of after them.
3. Cowboys – Everyone was talking about the improvements of the Giants defense from week 1 to week 10. But the Cowboys got a lot better too. They are even a better team than the one that played the Pats. Good enough to beat them…probably not. But no one will get accused of running up the score.
4. Steelers – Who really trusts Big Ben on a week to week basis…not me. If Ben continues to improve and the defense continues to make the big plays, they can beat anyone, anywhere.
5. Packers – It looks like the game at Dallas 2 weeks from today will be for home-field advantage in the NFC playoffs. It could spell disaster for Dallas, if they have to go to Lambeau.
6. Jaguars – Great running game + great defense + getting QB back = Playoffs.
7. Titans – When will VY show up? It better be before the playoffs or they are gonna be an easy out. Judging by the Browns schedule (see below) they may need him sooner than that.
8. Giants – They got beat by a better team at home. Somehow that leads to every sports writer in NY slaughtering Eli Manning. The big reason this team won 6 in a row, and is better than they were last year is because they are healthier and they commit fewer penalties. They are not good enough to overcome themselves. Both the offense and the defense need to show up to beat Detroit at home.
9. Lions – Amazing at home, brutal on the road. If the Giants do not get to Kitna he is going to tear the defense apart. This game has a chance to be a blow out either way. Who can make more big plays?
10. Chargers – Huge, huge win. That erases last week’s loss to Minny. The Chargers have a tough road ahead, but the conference is in their hands.
11. Browns – This team is a real threat to the Titans and Jaguars for the final WC spot. They have a cupcake schedule left. Please do not be surprised if this team finishes 12-4 or 11-5, the latter will be necessary to make the playoffs as a WC in the AFC.
12. Buccaneers – The Bucs have lost all of their games to strong teams and taken care of the bad ones. The best team on the reminder of their schedule is Wash at home. I present you with your NFC South Champion.
13. Seahawks – Seahawks sans Shaun Alexander > Seahawks with Shaun Alexander.
14. Redskins – This team has literally set the record for second half collapses for the last 3 years. Congrats. They are still in the WC hunt with NYG and Det. But with two games against Dal remaining, in addition to one @ Tampa, they are the long shot.
15. Saints – Disappointing loss for them. 5-4 and 4-5 is a huge difference right now in the NFC. They are just not consistent enough on offense or defense to compete.
16. Chiefs – Losing LJ was the end of their season. They have @Indy, @Denver and SD remaining which makes their scheduled one of the toughest in the playoff hunt.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dishonorable Mentions
Denver – Still have a shot at the division. But they are an average-at-best football team.
Eagles – They made a run like this last year, and they are getting healthy enough to make people remember that. However, the schedule sets up brutally with @ NE and @ Dallas sprinkled in.
What does it all mean:
AFC Byes: Indy, Pats
NFC Byes: Boys, Pack
AFC 1st Rd Matchup: Charger at Steelers
AFC 1st Rd Matchup: Titans at Jax (although I need VY to show up soon so my 3 AFC South teams in the playoffs prediction will come true. Right now they are even money with the Browns)
NFC 1st RD Matchup: NYG at Tampa
NFC 1st RD Matchup: Detroit at Seattle
Soon to come - NYG at Detroit breakdown.
NFL Lines - Buy or Sell. (Note: Last week was omitted due to terrible matchups... know when to hold'em know when to fold'em)
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Monday Night has become the worst night for fball
Monday night this year has been terrible. The games that were scheduled have been nothing more than absolutely boring. All the Monday night games are scheduled before the season takes place but how can they be so wrong. The Atlanta game a couple of weeks ago I can excuse since they believed Vick was going to be playing and we all know where that ended up but last nights gamewith San Fran at Seattle was a prime example at how bad Monday night has been.
Talk about a boring couple of hours, even though my fantasy week came down to that game i could only pay attention for a half, and that was a lot. San Fran is possibly in the worst place in all of the NFL right now. Yes they are heading into a game with St Louis and should be able to handle them, I wouldnt bet on it. SJax is back and cooking and the San Fran offense cannot get points, yards, or even hold the ball for more than three plays and punt (thats on a good possession). They are only running the ball up the middle with an offensive line that can't buckle down for one yard, which was their only chance for scoring the entire game. Frank Gore has been a bust this year not scoring a touchdown for 6 weeks now. Alex Smith's talent has been brought to light and SF should find a way to get into the Donovan McNabb conversation soon. The only positive for the entire game last night was watching Hasselbeck work, he was impressive now that they no longer have Shaun Alexander in the game. Once Branch gets back this should be an impressive team to watch, but they were not the most exciting game in football last week, not by a long shot.
Talk about a boring couple of hours, even though my fantasy week came down to that game i could only pay attention for a half, and that was a lot. San Fran is possibly in the worst place in all of the NFL right now. Yes they are heading into a game with St Louis and should be able to handle them, I wouldnt bet on it. SJax is back and cooking and the San Fran offense cannot get points, yards, or even hold the ball for more than three plays and punt (thats on a good possession). They are only running the ball up the middle with an offensive line that can't buckle down for one yard, which was their only chance for scoring the entire game. Frank Gore has been a bust this year not scoring a touchdown for 6 weeks now. Alex Smith's talent has been brought to light and SF should find a way to get into the Donovan McNabb conversation soon. The only positive for the entire game last night was watching Hasselbeck work, he was impressive now that they no longer have Shaun Alexander in the game. Once Branch gets back this should be an impressive team to watch, but they were not the most exciting game in football last week, not by a long shot.
Friday, November 9, 2007
Mayhem at the Meadowlands
The first match-up against the Giants was closer than the final score will indicate. The game was probably over when Dallas Dallas
As ESPN has documented ad-nauseum the Giants have improved on defense, they are getting more consistent pressure on QBs and the secondary is playing much better since Aaron Ross moved into the starting role and Corey Webster has been designated for nickel situations. Kiwanuka has made improvements in the rush and run game but is still a concern in pass coverage, in fact, all of the Giants linebackers are suspect in pass coverage which is something that Dallas exploited in game 1 and should look to do again.
On offense the Giants seem to have slowed down a bit, they will be without Steve Smith and Derek Ward this game both of whom contributed last game. However, Plaxico practiced on Wednesday for the first time since the preseason. Jacobs is healthy again and looks to increase his consecutive 100 yards games to 4.
For the Giants to win:
- Establish Jacobs early, even if there is minimal success, Jacobs is the type of player that will wear out a defense. He is probably the only RB in the NFL who can have minimal success but still demand extra defensive players in the box because he requires multiple people to get him down, this will get Eli into play-action. The numbers say Eli is an elite QB when operating out of play-action.
- Plaxico had a field day last game and there is no doubt he will see 2 and sometimes 3 defenders. Toomer has to be effective early and often. Steve Smith will sorely be missed in this contest. Hopefully, the coaching staff can cook up something to get skat-receiver Sinorice Moss the ball in space.
- On defense they need to slow down TO. TO kills the Giants in the red-zone because of his physical attributes, keeping him out will frustrate him and the entire offense.
- The Cowboys have yet to show that they will be committed to beating anyone with the run. Focusing on that would be a mistake but neglecting it completely would be fatal.
- As always the Giants defense is built on pressuring the quarterback, expect Osi, Stray, Tuck and Kiwi to be flying through the line all day. The game will be won and lost here.
The key player for the Cowboys who was not a part of game one is Greg Ellis. He has provided a huge spark for their defense in many ways. He takes pressure of Demarcus Ware and gets to the QB himself, it isn’t mentioned as much by pundits but Greg Ellis is great in the run game as well.
Mayhem at the Meadowlands has NFC game of the year written all over it. The Giants organization has called for a red-out and the stadium will undoubtedly be thunderously loud. If the Giants can pull of the upset they cement themselves as a top 3 NFC East team with the Boys and Pack which will let them contend for home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. With a win the Cowboys set themselves up perfectly for not only home-field advantage but all a couple of weeks of rest. The dome team needs to be more concerned about having to go to Lambeau in January.
This Sunday will be clear skies in the mid-40s. Cowboys 27, Giants 30.
Offensive Player of the game: Brandon Jacobs
Defensive Player of the game: Gibril Wilson
Red Out?
The Giants have asked to get the word out that the team would like their fans who are attending the Giants-Cowboys game on Sunday to wear red.
Sadly, I will not be in attendance but I will be wearing red while watching the game from my couch.
A full breakdown of "Mayhem at the Meadowlands" soon to come.
Sadly, I will not be in attendance but I will be wearing red while watching the game from my couch.
A full breakdown of "Mayhem at the Meadowlands" soon to come.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Quarter Back Rankings
Mythical Beast (Play at a level that is incomprehensible to mere mortals. There is a HUGE gap between these guys and the next best)
Peyton
Brady
Quality (Win a lot and/or put up good numbers)
Romo – Romo can cement his team as #1 in the NFC with wins at Giants and home against Favre.
Drew Brees – From Basement to High Quality in 4 weeks…What a difference a month makes.
Big Ben – Big Ben is the key to this team. If Ben plays great they have a chance to beat anyone…anywhere. See what I am getting at?
Brett Favre – "My Brett Favre's back and your defense is in trouble…"
Decent (Secure jobs, will win some games, spots of stupidity)
Eli Manning – Just decent. The last 8 games of the season will tell you where Eli stands.
Jeff Garcia – Gruden said, "Every coach needs a patient wife, a loyal dog, and a good quarterback. And we got a helluva quarterback." Touche Grudes…touché.
Jon Kitna – Call him Kitnadamus.
WTF? (Can't believe these guys are relevant, either because their teams are winning too many games or their stats are too high... or both)
Derek Anderson – It's week 10 and I still can't believe what this guy is doing.
Brother to Mr. Elizabeth Hasselbeck – Seattle 4 wins and is in first place in the NFC West. I guarantee the Bills, Texans and Ravens throw up a little in their mouth every time they see Seattle in the playoffs.
Up and coming (Show signs of life, but don't quite put it all together week to week)
Matt Schaub – Needs all of his weapons.
Kellen Clemens – Has looked very impressive throwing the ball against Baltimore and Washington's D.
Underachievers (Very disappointing week in and week out. Frequently freak out and make horrible decisions. Should be winning more with team around them and with what they have done in the past)
D-Nabb – McNabb is not the only problem with the Eagles. That said, he is done in Philly… Minnesota, Chicago, Atlanta, let the bidding begin.
Jason Campbell – I have never seen any QB check down as quickly as JC. That is not what you want from a QB who is built to see the field and fire the ball deep.
Palmer – Palmer has not been nearly as accurate as he has in the past. His attitude isn't helping either.
Vince Young – The Titans are winning despite what VY brings to the table. It hasn't killed them yet, but he cannot play that way in the playoffs.
Mr. E ….Where the E is short for Enigma
Trent Edwards/JP Losman – I wonder if the Bills considered having these two run into each other at full speed to see if they can mesh together to make one really good QB.
Overrated - Not as good as people want to think they are. Have good supporting casts but really are not good enough to lead them.
Jay Cutler – Pre-Cutler success + high expectations + lack of offensive weapons = Cutler not nearly getting the amount of forgiveness that Favre had.
Philip Rivers – After Norv Turner, Philip Rivers is the weak link in the SD chain. His sophomore slump is very reminiscent of what Big Ben went through last year.
Damon Huard – The hopes were too high for Huard coming into this season but he is a very good backup. As soon as the Chiefs are eliminated from the playoffs they should try to see what they got in Brodie.
Basement- These teams need to just hand the ball off.
Alex Smith – This arm injury may have made him into the new Chad Pennington, just a matter of time until he cant throw outs and gets picked off three times a game. O RIGHT he wasnt able to throw the out patterns and he WAS picked off three times a game...welcome to Jet Hell SF fans.
Brian Griese - wait, what is this guy doing on an NFL team...this makes no sense, just because Bob Griese was able to play football doesnt mean all Griese's can
Vinny T/ David Carr - This is still brutal.
Josh McCown – He deserves to be the starter of the Raiders but that isn't saying much. (See: Poll for when JaMarcus gets the nod, makes you wonder if JaMarcus would have been at training camp if he would already be starting.)
Mark Bulger - You gotta give props to Bulger for playing through pain but he has been terrible all season
Steve McNair - McNair is officially done. He will most likely bring Billick down with him
Andre Woodson/Matt Ryan Sweepstakes (No one really knows who is trotting out there and no one cares.)
Cleo Lemon (the Miami Dolphins are to bad what the New England Patriots are to good.)
Arizona job opening (Warner can't even keep their head above water in the horrific NFC West)
John Joseph or Byron Leftwich (With 2 wins they look like they are out of the hunt for the #1 pick or even the #1 QB. But they might get Andrew Woodson who looks NFL ready)
Tarvaris Jackson (Below the basement/Worst QB in the history of the NFL)
Tarvaris Jackson - He can't even stay healthy. Minny is so desperate they signed Koy Detmer this week, they should be placing daily calls to McNabb.
Peyton
Brady
Quality (Win a lot and/or put up good numbers)
Romo – Romo can cement his team as #1 in the NFC with wins at Giants and home against Favre.
Drew Brees – From Basement to High Quality in 4 weeks…What a difference a month makes.
Big Ben – Big Ben is the key to this team. If Ben plays great they have a chance to beat anyone…anywhere. See what I am getting at?
Brett Favre – "My Brett Favre's back and your defense is in trouble…"
Decent (Secure jobs, will win some games, spots of stupidity)
Eli Manning – Just decent. The last 8 games of the season will tell you where Eli stands.
Jeff Garcia – Gruden said, "Every coach needs a patient wife, a loyal dog, and a good quarterback. And we got a helluva quarterback." Touche Grudes…touché.
Jon Kitna – Call him Kitnadamus.
WTF? (Can't believe these guys are relevant, either because their teams are winning too many games or their stats are too high... or both)
Derek Anderson – It's week 10 and I still can't believe what this guy is doing.
Brother to Mr. Elizabeth Hasselbeck – Seattle 4 wins and is in first place in the NFC West. I guarantee the Bills, Texans and Ravens throw up a little in their mouth every time they see Seattle in the playoffs.
Up and coming (Show signs of life, but don't quite put it all together week to week)
Matt Schaub – Needs all of his weapons.
Kellen Clemens – Has looked very impressive throwing the ball against Baltimore and Washington's D.
Underachievers (Very disappointing week in and week out. Frequently freak out and make horrible decisions. Should be winning more with team around them and with what they have done in the past)
D-Nabb – McNabb is not the only problem with the Eagles. That said, he is done in Philly… Minnesota, Chicago, Atlanta, let the bidding begin.
Jason Campbell – I have never seen any QB check down as quickly as JC. That is not what you want from a QB who is built to see the field and fire the ball deep.
Palmer – Palmer has not been nearly as accurate as he has in the past. His attitude isn't helping either.
Vince Young – The Titans are winning despite what VY brings to the table. It hasn't killed them yet, but he cannot play that way in the playoffs.
Mr. E ….Where the E is short for Enigma
Trent Edwards/JP Losman – I wonder if the Bills considered having these two run into each other at full speed to see if they can mesh together to make one really good QB.
Overrated - Not as good as people want to think they are. Have good supporting casts but really are not good enough to lead them.
Jay Cutler – Pre-Cutler success + high expectations + lack of offensive weapons = Cutler not nearly getting the amount of forgiveness that Favre had.
Philip Rivers – After Norv Turner, Philip Rivers is the weak link in the SD chain. His sophomore slump is very reminiscent of what Big Ben went through last year.
Damon Huard – The hopes were too high for Huard coming into this season but he is a very good backup. As soon as the Chiefs are eliminated from the playoffs they should try to see what they got in Brodie.
Basement- These teams need to just hand the ball off.
Alex Smith – This arm injury may have made him into the new Chad Pennington, just a matter of time until he cant throw outs and gets picked off three times a game. O RIGHT he wasnt able to throw the out patterns and he WAS picked off three times a game...welcome to Jet Hell SF fans.
Brian Griese - wait, what is this guy doing on an NFL team...this makes no sense, just because Bob Griese was able to play football doesnt mean all Griese's can
Vinny T/ David Carr - This is still brutal.
Josh McCown – He deserves to be the starter of the Raiders but that isn't saying much. (See: Poll for when JaMarcus gets the nod, makes you wonder if JaMarcus would have been at training camp if he would already be starting.)
Mark Bulger - You gotta give props to Bulger for playing through pain but he has been terrible all season
Steve McNair - McNair is officially done. He will most likely bring Billick down with him
Andre Woodson/Matt Ryan Sweepstakes (No one really knows who is trotting out there and no one cares.)
Cleo Lemon (the Miami Dolphins are to bad what the New England Patriots are to good.)
Arizona job opening (Warner can't even keep their head above water in the horrific NFC West)
John Joseph or Byron Leftwich (With 2 wins they look like they are out of the hunt for the #1 pick or even the #1 QB. But they might get Andrew Woodson who looks NFL ready)
Tarvaris Jackson (Below the basement/Worst QB in the history of the NFL)
Tarvaris Jackson - He can't even stay healthy. Minny is so desperate they signed Koy Detmer this week, they should be placing daily calls to McNabb.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Tom Brady Suspension / failed drug test
Well this is the rumor started by shock Jocks Opie and Anthony. however OGPaper.com reports that
"Tom Brady was suspended for failing a drug test - NOT! It was just a joke by a couple of morning radio show personalities in Boston (some other small stations may have picked up the rumor and reported as true, as well), but many people bit the hook and "Tom Brady suspension" became the most searched for news headline. Tom Brady has not been suspended, he has not failed a drug test and he is in good health.
If Tom Brady was actually suspended, for any reason, it would have become the biggest headline of the week and you wouldn't have to search the web to learn more. Bottom line - Tom Brady has NOT been suspended for failing a drug test or any other reason (yet). New England fans - relax, Colts fans - nice try."
http://www.ogpaper.com/news/news-01232.html
"Tom Brady was suspended for failing a drug test - NOT! It was just a joke by a couple of morning radio show personalities in Boston (some other small stations may have picked up the rumor and reported as true, as well), but many people bit the hook and "Tom Brady suspension" became the most searched for news headline. Tom Brady has not been suspended, he has not failed a drug test and he is in good health.
If Tom Brady was actually suspended, for any reason, it would have become the biggest headline of the week and you wouldn't have to search the web to learn more. Bottom line - Tom Brady has NOT been suspended for failing a drug test or any other reason (yet). New England fans - relax, Colts fans - nice try."
http://www.ogpaper.com/news/news-01232.html
72 Dolphins almost shit themselves with excitement...oh well guess they will need to keep that Champagne on ice for a little bit longer.
Power Rankings
Well, after week 9 I am ready to bury half of the NFL. Since these teams have zero chance for the playoffs we will be detailing their needs and potential moves for the upcoming off-season.
1. Patriots – WOW, that was a close one, for Patriots standards that might be as close as you get. They won the SuperBowl 41.5 so they are still on top.
2. Colts – They lost SuperBowl 41.5 so they have to stay below. Although, they still looked unbelievably good and when they get Harrison and the rest of their hurt players back it may be a whole new game.
3. Cowboys – Despite Hurricane Britney, the Cowboys rocked the Eagles at home. Dallas looks like they have just about everything going for themselves right now; pass-rush, running game, passing game, and the defensive secondary continues to get healthy. This is clearly the best team in the NFC, and with the schedule they have remaining, are lock for a first round bye. Plus they are getting stronger at the DT position with Tank being activated this week.
4. Steelers – Wow, the Steelers looked like they might be a team that could threaten the Pats. The amount of pressure that was on McNair made the game completely lopsided. As Mike Greenberg put it, "James Harrison had a great month [on Monday Night]". 10 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble and 1 INT. If this team can stay healthy on offense and Ben can limit mistakes they should be able to give the Pats a good game (which is more than I can say for anyone else on the Pats remaining schedule). If it wasn't for a game at Zona where Whisenhunt new every play in the playbook the Steelers would be in the convo for stealing Indy's bye.
5. Packers – Going to KC and handling that team, is to me, the most impressive win the Packers have this year. Don't look now but GB's games at Detroit on Thanksgiving will not only be an offensive shootout but will have NFC North and WC implications. Followed-up on the very next Thursday with a huge game at Dallas.
6. Jaguars – I know they lost in the city of Rebirth this weekend, but I really like their defense, and running game. They brought in Grady Jackson to fill in for Marcus Stroud while he is suspended. If they can get Garrard back soon they will stay in this spot through the end of the season.
7. Titans – VY has regressed, there is no argument about it. But they have the grittiest defense in the NFL right now (just edging out Jax), Lendale White looks like he can run the ball a bit. I have started to hear some pundits talk about White > Bush, which is just heinously inaccurate and premature. The Titans have continued to win in spite of Vince which just means they will be all that more dangerous when he snaps out of it.
8. Giants – They have the momentum and should be healthier coming off a bye. Still, they don't have much of a chance against Dallas this week.
9. Lions - Kitna is not just a story about a bad halloween costume...hes also a prophet, this team is legit.
10. Chargers – Norv strikes again. The Chargers looked completely unprepared for AD. Peterson should not be a surprise to anyone in the league anymore, and with no QB to speak of he should be the focal point of every defense. The fact that Norv missed this is reprehensible. With the talent they have this team is still dangerous but they must win in spite of their coach. Norv Turner should not have a HC job in the NFL next year, I bet he could get his job back with SF.
11. Browns – This team continues to impress, Derek Anderson should become a household name pretty soon. Best part of his story is that he was with the Ravens last year and they tried to put him on the practice squad this year, although before he cleared waivers he was picked up by the Browns with a $150 waiver fee. For that they got 2,108 pass yards 17 Passing TD's and a passer rating of 91.7, not bad for 150 dollars.
12. Buccaneers – Garcia and Co. continue their surge. Earnest Graham had another good week with 124 rushing, 13 receiving and 1 rushing TD. Thats not bad for a 3rd string replacement. It will be interesting to see if he continues to start after the bye when Michael Pittman is expected to be healthy again.
13. Chiefs – Losing LJ might be the end of their season. They need every game they have left and Priest Holmes is doubtful to produce the likes of what Larry was doing.
14. Seahawks – Shaun Alexander runs with NBA effort, its actually sickening to watch.
15. Redskins – When will the defense play to its potential, when will JC play to his potential. Reports say that the coaching staff is extremely disappointed with his sloppiness although they really have nowhere else to turn. Joe Gibbs and the assistant coach Hall of Fame have been there for 3+ years. Campbell will be making his 16 th start. This team is running out of excuses quickly.
16. Saints – They are back in a big way. Brees has finally started playing like he did all of last year and they are back in the hunt. From Gregg Easterbrook's TMQ "The past two Sundays, Drew Brees is a combined 66-for-88 for 781 yards, seven touchdowns and no interceptions."
And we're done with 07/08 contenders------------------------------------------------
17. Bills – How good is this team at home!?!? I love it. They have no shot this year but have put themselves in great shape for the near future. Assuming they stick with Trent Edwards, Losman is a one-trick pony.
18. Vikings – The QB situation prevents them from having a real shot this year. But they are one player away from making the NFC North one of the toughest divisions in football. Enter Donovan McNabb (see: "Is McNabb Done in Philly").
19. Eagles – This game was just ugly. The Eagles have no down field threat and even if they did it was unlikely that McNabb was going to hit him with the pressure that he had all game. Andy Reid should get out of the "Drug Emporium" and stop sniffing the glue.
20. Broncos - They got beat bad, their pass defense is lacking big time which is amazing considering they have the best corner in the game.
21. Baltimore - Ravens got destroyed on Monday night, getting their hurt players back did absolutely nothing positive for this team, their defense still is nasty but their offense is just so bad that they are losing points...Billick should just punt on first down every time and hope his defense gets him points.
22. Cardinals – This team SHOULD be in the QB FA/Draft discussion. After losing Leinert and having Warner start, they need help and fast.
23. Panthers – See above, same problems only insert Testaverde and Carr plus Carr's mysterious white gloves...fairy...
24. Bears – The Bears look like they are a QB away from being one of the most dangerous teams in the NFC. McNabb is originally from Chi-Town so that makes him a logical choice. They will be in a bidding war with the Vikings which just about ensures one of these teams will over-pay. Other possible QBs include; Chad Pennington, JP Losman, Damon Huard, David Carr.
25. Texans - They need Schaub and Andre Johnson back, without those two guys this team just does not work. They are one year away from being a contender and they should use that year to get better at the Offensive line positions.
26. Bengals – Bungles. Really glad Chad Johnson is okay, but he is done in Cincy. They are gonna need that cap room to sign a big-time defensive draft pick and defensive free agents.
27. Jets – Kellen Clemens looked great against a strong Washington defense this weekend, and he did it without L. Coles. If this OLine can get their act together and they can make some key moves on defense they may be able to compete next year. Although, having to play NE twice and once at Buffalo next year, will really make the playoff hurdle into a mountain.
28. Raiders – For the first time in recent memory I can actually give an identity on both sides of the ball to the Raiders. They play good pass defense and no run defense. They can run the ball on offense but don't have the QB to get it done in the passing game. If JaMarcus turns out to be worthy of his #1 draft pick selection the Raiders may not be far away from really competing in the struggling AFC West.
29. 49ers – I thought this was going to be the year that SF could take advantage of the terrible NFC West and get to the playoffs. The injuries have hurt but that is not an excuse for being this bad. Without their #1 pick in the draft this year it looks like they may not get the playoffs this decade.
30. Falcons – The Falcons have no immediate prospects. They need to get back to work from the top down. It will be a couple years before this team can really compete again it's probably in their best interest to draft a QB instead of making a run at McNabb or another Free Agent.
31. Rams – It is going to be very interesting to see what the Rams do with their draft pick. Their seem to be set at QB, RB and WR. The logical thought will be OLine, but with this draft you could probably trade down and get two for the price of one.
32. Dolphins – This team has an aging defense and holes everywhere on offense. A complete make-over is in order. Andre Woodson, Dennis Dixon, Brian Brohm, Matt Ryan????
1. Patriots – WOW, that was a close one, for Patriots standards that might be as close as you get. They won the SuperBowl 41.5 so they are still on top.
2. Colts – They lost SuperBowl 41.5 so they have to stay below. Although, they still looked unbelievably good and when they get Harrison and the rest of their hurt players back it may be a whole new game.
3. Cowboys – Despite Hurricane Britney, the Cowboys rocked the Eagles at home. Dallas looks like they have just about everything going for themselves right now; pass-rush, running game, passing game, and the defensive secondary continues to get healthy. This is clearly the best team in the NFC, and with the schedule they have remaining, are lock for a first round bye. Plus they are getting stronger at the DT position with Tank being activated this week.
4. Steelers – Wow, the Steelers looked like they might be a team that could threaten the Pats. The amount of pressure that was on McNair made the game completely lopsided. As Mike Greenberg put it, "James Harrison had a great month [on Monday Night]". 10 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble and 1 INT. If this team can stay healthy on offense and Ben can limit mistakes they should be able to give the Pats a good game (which is more than I can say for anyone else on the Pats remaining schedule). If it wasn't for a game at Zona where Whisenhunt new every play in the playbook the Steelers would be in the convo for stealing Indy's bye.
5. Packers – Going to KC and handling that team, is to me, the most impressive win the Packers have this year. Don't look now but GB's games at Detroit on Thanksgiving will not only be an offensive shootout but will have NFC North and WC implications. Followed-up on the very next Thursday with a huge game at Dallas.
6. Jaguars – I know they lost in the city of Rebirth this weekend, but I really like their defense, and running game. They brought in Grady Jackson to fill in for Marcus Stroud while he is suspended. If they can get Garrard back soon they will stay in this spot through the end of the season.
7. Titans – VY has regressed, there is no argument about it. But they have the grittiest defense in the NFL right now (just edging out Jax), Lendale White looks like he can run the ball a bit. I have started to hear some pundits talk about White > Bush, which is just heinously inaccurate and premature. The Titans have continued to win in spite of Vince which just means they will be all that more dangerous when he snaps out of it.
8. Giants – They have the momentum and should be healthier coming off a bye. Still, they don't have much of a chance against Dallas this week.
9. Lions - Kitna is not just a story about a bad halloween costume...hes also a prophet, this team is legit.
10. Chargers – Norv strikes again. The Chargers looked completely unprepared for AD. Peterson should not be a surprise to anyone in the league anymore, and with no QB to speak of he should be the focal point of every defense. The fact that Norv missed this is reprehensible. With the talent they have this team is still dangerous but they must win in spite of their coach. Norv Turner should not have a HC job in the NFL next year, I bet he could get his job back with SF.
11. Browns – This team continues to impress, Derek Anderson should become a household name pretty soon. Best part of his story is that he was with the Ravens last year and they tried to put him on the practice squad this year, although before he cleared waivers he was picked up by the Browns with a $150 waiver fee. For that they got 2,108 pass yards 17 Passing TD's and a passer rating of 91.7, not bad for 150 dollars.
12. Buccaneers – Garcia and Co. continue their surge. Earnest Graham had another good week with 124 rushing, 13 receiving and 1 rushing TD. Thats not bad for a 3rd string replacement. It will be interesting to see if he continues to start after the bye when Michael Pittman is expected to be healthy again.
13. Chiefs – Losing LJ might be the end of their season. They need every game they have left and Priest Holmes is doubtful to produce the likes of what Larry was doing.
14. Seahawks – Shaun Alexander runs with NBA effort, its actually sickening to watch.
15. Redskins – When will the defense play to its potential, when will JC play to his potential. Reports say that the coaching staff is extremely disappointed with his sloppiness although they really have nowhere else to turn. Joe Gibbs and the assistant coach Hall of Fame have been there for 3+ years. Campbell will be making his 16 th start. This team is running out of excuses quickly.
16. Saints – They are back in a big way. Brees has finally started playing like he did all of last year and they are back in the hunt. From Gregg Easterbrook's TMQ "The past two Sundays, Drew Brees is a combined 66-for-88 for 781 yards, seven touchdowns and no interceptions."
And we're done with 07/08 contenders------------------------------------------------
17. Bills – How good is this team at home!?!? I love it. They have no shot this year but have put themselves in great shape for the near future. Assuming they stick with Trent Edwards, Losman is a one-trick pony.
18. Vikings – The QB situation prevents them from having a real shot this year. But they are one player away from making the NFC North one of the toughest divisions in football. Enter Donovan McNabb (see: "Is McNabb Done in Philly").
19. Eagles – This game was just ugly. The Eagles have no down field threat and even if they did it was unlikely that McNabb was going to hit him with the pressure that he had all game. Andy Reid should get out of the "Drug Emporium" and stop sniffing the glue.
20. Broncos - They got beat bad, their pass defense is lacking big time which is amazing considering they have the best corner in the game.
21. Baltimore - Ravens got destroyed on Monday night, getting their hurt players back did absolutely nothing positive for this team, their defense still is nasty but their offense is just so bad that they are losing points...Billick should just punt on first down every time and hope his defense gets him points.
22. Cardinals – This team SHOULD be in the QB FA/Draft discussion. After losing Leinert and having Warner start, they need help and fast.
23. Panthers – See above, same problems only insert Testaverde and Carr plus Carr's mysterious white gloves...fairy...
24. Bears – The Bears look like they are a QB away from being one of the most dangerous teams in the NFC. McNabb is originally from Chi-Town so that makes him a logical choice. They will be in a bidding war with the Vikings which just about ensures one of these teams will over-pay. Other possible QBs include; Chad Pennington, JP Losman, Damon Huard, David Carr.
25. Texans - They need Schaub and Andre Johnson back, without those two guys this team just does not work. They are one year away from being a contender and they should use that year to get better at the Offensive line positions.
26. Bengals – Bungles. Really glad Chad Johnson is okay, but he is done in Cincy. They are gonna need that cap room to sign a big-time defensive draft pick and defensive free agents.
27. Jets – Kellen Clemens looked great against a strong Washington defense this weekend, and he did it without L. Coles. If this OLine can get their act together and they can make some key moves on defense they may be able to compete next year. Although, having to play NE twice and once at Buffalo next year, will really make the playoff hurdle into a mountain.
28. Raiders – For the first time in recent memory I can actually give an identity on both sides of the ball to the Raiders. They play good pass defense and no run defense. They can run the ball on offense but don't have the QB to get it done in the passing game. If JaMarcus turns out to be worthy of his #1 draft pick selection the Raiders may not be far away from really competing in the struggling AFC West.
29. 49ers – I thought this was going to be the year that SF could take advantage of the terrible NFC West and get to the playoffs. The injuries have hurt but that is not an excuse for being this bad. Without their #1 pick in the draft this year it looks like they may not get the playoffs this decade.
30. Falcons – The Falcons have no immediate prospects. They need to get back to work from the top down. It will be a couple years before this team can really compete again it's probably in their best interest to draft a QB instead of making a run at McNabb or another Free Agent.
31. Rams – It is going to be very interesting to see what the Rams do with their draft pick. Their seem to be set at QB, RB and WR. The logical thought will be OLine, but with this draft you could probably trade down and get two for the price of one.
32. Dolphins – This team has an aging defense and holes everywhere on offense. A complete make-over is in order. Andre Woodson, Dennis Dixon, Brian Brohm, Matt Ryan????
Friday, November 2, 2007
Predictions...Week 9
Last week I went 8-5 which is 61.5% odds...you're not gonna anything that friendly on the floor in Vegas.
San Diego at Minnesota, +7.0
Both of these defenses are pretty good...nay, damn good. But Minny's D isn't good against the pass and that is how you have to hurt the Bolts, by making Rivers pay for his mistakes. Moreover, I am gonna sell that LDTv2.0 is better than the LDTv1.0. Finally, I have documented more than once that Tavaris Jax is the worst starting QB I have ever seen. All that said, I like the Chargers to cover in a big way away from home.
Jacksonville at New Orleans, -3.0
New Orleans has earned the right to be favored in this game, they have looked really good the last three weeks. But this is a terrible matchup for them, Jax's D is too tough for them to get away with anything and their weakness on run defense will be exploited. I am putting the Fred Tayler + MJD line at combined 300 yds. Also, this could Marcus Stroud's last game before he has to serve his 4 game suspension, he is going to leave it all on the field. Jax.
Washington at NY Jets, +3.5
Judging by Joe Gibbs' comments before and after the Pats game it is clear that they didn't even bother preparing for that game. Washington knows this game is crucial because there schedule quickly becomes riddled with good teams and divisional foe. I am gonna go against all logic and the fact that the only Jets player with heart (Coles) will be out and say the "trap game corollary" is never wrong twice in a row. J-E-T-S Jets? Jets? ah what the hell... JETS!
Arizona at Tampa Bay, -3.5
This gets the nod as my most favorite line of the week (would have been Jax but Quinn Grey is terrible). Tampa to cover at home for all the reasons you already know.
San Francisco at Atlanta, -3.0
Both of these teams can't seem to do anything right. Normally, that would lead me to take the home team. However, Mike Nolan has said he will be using Frank Gore a lot, also, the Falcons are in a bad state mentally. SF to cover...if you have to take someone.
Cincinnati at Buffalo, -1.0
Buffalo at home has been money for me all season and there is no way I am going away from it now ...it's only getting colder up their. Is their any argument that the Bills don't have the best fans in the NFL? Bills.
Denver at Detroit, -3.0
If Denver can't defend the pass against GB there is no way they will get it done at Detroit. I think at the half-way mark Jon Kitna leads the league in surprises, with 2. One outlandish prediction that seems to be coming to fruition and one hysterically original Halloween costume. Det-riot.
Carolina at Tennessee, -4.0
Tennessee is like the Joakim Noah of the NFL to me, it's never pretty but they find ways to win. If that's not enough, Carolina is going to bring David Carr to the table...he wears white gloves. What would Kenny Chesney pick?
Green Bay at Kansas City, +2.0
Brett Favre is like a werewolf... only instead of full moons he has Monday nights and instead of becoming a werewolf he becomes a J-U-G-S machine. This game is not on Monday night and that KC crowd is tough to play against. This is my upset special...KC.
Seattle at Cleveland, -1.5
This is a great matchup for Cle because Seattle doesn't do anything impressive on defense. On offense they don't do anything too fancy. Rightfully so, the Browns are favored in this game and thanks to the easiest second half schedule I have ever seen Cleveland should be going to the playoffs.
Why can't the Seattle front office give Holmgren something to work with? Anything? Is there any coach who has got more out of less talent over the last 4 years?
Houston at Oakland, -3.0
Oakland is FAVORED? Why? Glitch in the system? Daunte's career is finally over? They cut Mike Williams? Sage Rosenfels? ...I am buying it. Go Silver and Black.
New England at Indianapolis, +5.5
NE
Dallas at Philadelphia, +3.0
2 Words...Hurricane Britney. Not only is Britney rumored to be the newest Romosexual. She has somehow drawn the seldom seen scorn of Wade Philips. Wade claims that Hurricane Britney stole his daughters choreography for her newest video. In doing so Wade has committed three cardinal mistakes 1) Getting involved with Brit-Brit in any fashion 2) Letting the world know he has a hot dancer daughter. 3) Admitting he watches Britney Spears videos.
The Pats/Colts has stole the spotlight from what is my favorite story. TO's re-return to Philly. I am personally setting up a D-battery consession stand outside the Linc. Philly is gonna win this game and make the NFC East a complete cluster.
Baltimore at Pittsburgh, -9
Baltimore will cover this only because the final score will be 7-3.
San Diego at Minnesota, +7.0
Both of these defenses are pretty good...nay, damn good. But Minny's D isn't good against the pass and that is how you have to hurt the Bolts, by making Rivers pay for his mistakes. Moreover, I am gonna sell that LDTv2.0 is better than the LDTv1.0. Finally, I have documented more than once that Tavaris Jax is the worst starting QB I have ever seen. All that said, I like the Chargers to cover in a big way away from home.
Jacksonville at New Orleans, -3.0
New Orleans has earned the right to be favored in this game, they have looked really good the last three weeks. But this is a terrible matchup for them, Jax's D is too tough for them to get away with anything and their weakness on run defense will be exploited. I am putting the Fred Tayler + MJD line at combined 300 yds. Also, this could Marcus Stroud's last game before he has to serve his 4 game suspension, he is going to leave it all on the field. Jax.
Washington at NY Jets, +3.5
Judging by Joe Gibbs' comments before and after the Pats game it is clear that they didn't even bother preparing for that game. Washington knows this game is crucial because there schedule quickly becomes riddled with good teams and divisional foe. I am gonna go against all logic and the fact that the only Jets player with heart (Coles) will be out and say the "trap game corollary" is never wrong twice in a row. J-E-T-S Jets? Jets? ah what the hell... JETS!
Arizona at Tampa Bay, -3.5
This gets the nod as my most favorite line of the week (would have been Jax but Quinn Grey is terrible). Tampa to cover at home for all the reasons you already know.
San Francisco at Atlanta, -3.0
Both of these teams can't seem to do anything right. Normally, that would lead me to take the home team. However, Mike Nolan has said he will be using Frank Gore a lot, also, the Falcons are in a bad state mentally. SF to cover...if you have to take someone.
Cincinnati at Buffalo, -1.0
Buffalo at home has been money for me all season and there is no way I am going away from it now ...it's only getting colder up their. Is their any argument that the Bills don't have the best fans in the NFL? Bills.
Denver at Detroit, -3.0
If Denver can't defend the pass against GB there is no way they will get it done at Detroit. I think at the half-way mark Jon Kitna leads the league in surprises, with 2. One outlandish prediction that seems to be coming to fruition and one hysterically original Halloween costume. Det-riot.
Carolina at Tennessee, -4.0
Tennessee is like the Joakim Noah of the NFL to me, it's never pretty but they find ways to win. If that's not enough, Carolina is going to bring David Carr to the table...he wears white gloves. What would Kenny Chesney pick?
Green Bay at Kansas City, +2.0
Brett Favre is like a werewolf... only instead of full moons he has Monday nights and instead of becoming a werewolf he becomes a J-U-G-S machine. This game is not on Monday night and that KC crowd is tough to play against. This is my upset special...KC.
Seattle at Cleveland, -1.5
This is a great matchup for Cle because Seattle doesn't do anything impressive on defense. On offense they don't do anything too fancy. Rightfully so, the Browns are favored in this game and thanks to the easiest second half schedule I have ever seen Cleveland should be going to the playoffs.
Why can't the Seattle front office give Holmgren something to work with? Anything? Is there any coach who has got more out of less talent over the last 4 years?
Houston at Oakland, -3.0
Oakland is FAVORED? Why? Glitch in the system? Daunte's career is finally over? They cut Mike Williams? Sage Rosenfels? ...I am buying it. Go Silver and Black.
New England at Indianapolis, +5.5
NE
Dallas at Philadelphia, +3.0
2 Words...Hurricane Britney. Not only is Britney rumored to be the newest Romosexual. She has somehow drawn the seldom seen scorn of Wade Philips. Wade claims that Hurricane Britney stole his daughters choreography for her newest video. In doing so Wade has committed three cardinal mistakes 1) Getting involved with Brit-Brit in any fashion 2) Letting the world know he has a hot dancer daughter. 3) Admitting he watches Britney Spears videos.
The Pats/Colts has stole the spotlight from what is my favorite story. TO's re-return to Philly. I am personally setting up a D-battery consession stand outside the Linc. Philly is gonna win this game and make the NFC East a complete cluster.
Baltimore at Pittsburgh, -9
Baltimore will cover this only because the final score will be 7-3.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Power Rankings
1.Patriots – Patriots beat up on the Redskins last weekend and are going up against the defending champion Colts this weekend. They laid down a bunch of points last week which has been scrutinized however, any way you cut it they are still beating up on their opponents.
2.Colts – Colts have the Patriots this weekend in one of the most hyped regular season games. Should be a great game and I believe the difference will be whose defense can get a (may only need one) stop.
3.Cowboys – Cowboys keep rolling after their loss to the Pats. Nothing changes here, still the best team in the NFC.
4.Steelers – Steelers are the only team that statistically still stands with the Pats and Colts, they are ranked 1st in overall defense and 4th in overall offense. We will see if these stats will remain true after meeting the Pats week 14.
5.Chargers - They are rolling, Norv may have found a marble or two. If they can get some resemblance of a passing game this team could get very dangerous.
6.Jaguars – Found a way to win with the back up Qb, although it was to run the ball constantly and to not let Gray hold onto the pigskin for more than 2 seconds at a time.
7.Packers – That they are still winning boggles my mind, however they are finding ways and are succeeding at it. Favre is still playing like he’s in high school and the team is really feeding off of it.
8.Giants – Beat up on a poor Miami team, although it wasn’t as big of a margin as it should have been. May have been due to the weather and the field conditions. Good news is that Jacobs had a great day and he will have to be a huge factor for the Gmen down the road.
9.Titans - The Titans came out on top again, they are winning these games but by small margins. If VY and the offense can get things moving they could have a dangerous second half of the season.
10.Chiefs – I have no clue how this happened. In fact I am thinking about writing a strong worded letter to the producers of Hard knocks.
11.Lions – The lions are sitting pretty at 5-2. They have a tougher second half and should be interesting to see how this Lions group will respond to some rough games.
12.Ravens – Great game this weekend is going to be overshadowed by the Pats-Colts game. Meeting Pittsburgh on Monday night may be a huge decider on how the Black Birds season goes.
13.Seahawks – the hawks made it through a couple games without Deion Branch and have been able to keep a stable record at 4-3. However, Alexander continues to disappoint.
14.Buccaneers – Tough loss to the Jags, specially since they are playing with a back up Qb that I’m probably sure half of the coaches in the NFL had no clue who he was. They need to have a big game this week against the Cards
15.Browns - Still surprised at how Derek Anderson is playing, and although they just beat Miami and St lou the past two weeks its still impressive that they are at 4-3 without having played Brady Quinn once.
16.Broncos – Tough loss to Green Bay. This team has always had a great defense or at least one that would stop the big play, knowing that GB had two touchdown passes of over 75 yards is going to be something the Shanahan should be looking into.
17.Redskins – Getting beat worse than Miami and New Jersey/B is something you should not want at any point. However, this score was not typical of the Skins and they should be able to turn it around.
18.Eagles – Donovan finally is looking like his old self. Andy Reid actually called a Qb sneak which was the first time all season which proves that he is finally comfortable running McNabb. Or he doesn’t care about McNabb in the least and wants him to get hurt. Either is possible.
19.Saints – The saints are on a roll since they won their last 3, of course after losing their first 4. The saints may be rolling but Reggie cannot withstand being the number 1 rb for the entire year, he will get hurt.
20.Cardinals – The Qb issue needs to be fixed, The rest of the team cant handle it on their own.
21.Panthers – Having your best player only touch the ball twice the entire game is not going to produce W’s. Hopefully Carr will come back and fix things up for this team.
22.Bears - Injuries have just plagued this team, now they are saying that Urlacher’s back hurts. That would just be the straw…although maybe that straw has already been broken.
23.Bengals – The Bengal’s defense just can’t do it, they need to step up at some point to give this team a chance but they are not coming close. And going into buffalo isn’t going to be a great place to get a win, considering they have lost their last 8 to them.
24.Texans – Schaub going down is a heartbreaker. This team really needs to get their injured back on the field. Schaub and Johnson need to get back into the game.
25.Bills – Losman back in action. That can’t be great considering a rookie took his spot this year. Positive was that he threw the bomb to win the game last week. Negative was that the ball was under thrown by about twenty yards.
26.Vikings - TAVARIS JACKSON…man he is awful…
27.49ers – They are just bad, Alex Smith and Frank Gore can do nothing to turn this season around…Love how the Pats get their 1st rounder this year, could be one of the best moves a football office has ever made.
28.Raiders – 2-5, after a promising start the Raiders have fallen apart. Should be playing for another #1 pick for next year.
29.Falcons – This team has been ravaged by Michael Vick and now its DeAngelo Hall. Any team that needs to fine their players for speaking out about their coach is not going to go to the playoffs.
30.Jets – Kellen Clemens, Lets see what you got. This team really cant get any worse so why not throw in a back up.
31.Rams – Steven Jackson plays one half then gets out for back spasms. That is not a good sign for Fantasy owners. This has been one hugely disappointing season for the Rams.
32.Dolphins – Can’t even win in London. There is no help for this team, they go defeated on the season.
2.Colts – Colts have the Patriots this weekend in one of the most hyped regular season games. Should be a great game and I believe the difference will be whose defense can get a (may only need one) stop.
3.Cowboys – Cowboys keep rolling after their loss to the Pats. Nothing changes here, still the best team in the NFC.
4.Steelers – Steelers are the only team that statistically still stands with the Pats and Colts, they are ranked 1st in overall defense and 4th in overall offense. We will see if these stats will remain true after meeting the Pats week 14.
5.Chargers - They are rolling, Norv may have found a marble or two. If they can get some resemblance of a passing game this team could get very dangerous.
6.Jaguars – Found a way to win with the back up Qb, although it was to run the ball constantly and to not let Gray hold onto the pigskin for more than 2 seconds at a time.
7.Packers – That they are still winning boggles my mind, however they are finding ways and are succeeding at it. Favre is still playing like he’s in high school and the team is really feeding off of it.
8.Giants – Beat up on a poor Miami team, although it wasn’t as big of a margin as it should have been. May have been due to the weather and the field conditions. Good news is that Jacobs had a great day and he will have to be a huge factor for the Gmen down the road.
9.Titans - The Titans came out on top again, they are winning these games but by small margins. If VY and the offense can get things moving they could have a dangerous second half of the season.
10.Chiefs – I have no clue how this happened. In fact I am thinking about writing a strong worded letter to the producers of Hard knocks.
11.Lions – The lions are sitting pretty at 5-2. They have a tougher second half and should be interesting to see how this Lions group will respond to some rough games.
12.Ravens – Great game this weekend is going to be overshadowed by the Pats-Colts game. Meeting Pittsburgh on Monday night may be a huge decider on how the Black Birds season goes.
13.Seahawks – the hawks made it through a couple games without Deion Branch and have been able to keep a stable record at 4-3. However, Alexander continues to disappoint.
14.Buccaneers – Tough loss to the Jags, specially since they are playing with a back up Qb that I’m probably sure half of the coaches in the NFL had no clue who he was. They need to have a big game this week against the Cards
15.Browns - Still surprised at how Derek Anderson is playing, and although they just beat Miami and St lou the past two weeks its still impressive that they are at 4-3 without having played Brady Quinn once.
16.Broncos – Tough loss to Green Bay. This team has always had a great defense or at least one that would stop the big play, knowing that GB had two touchdown passes of over 75 yards is going to be something the Shanahan should be looking into.
17.Redskins – Getting beat worse than Miami and New Jersey/B is something you should not want at any point. However, this score was not typical of the Skins and they should be able to turn it around.
18.Eagles – Donovan finally is looking like his old self. Andy Reid actually called a Qb sneak which was the first time all season which proves that he is finally comfortable running McNabb. Or he doesn’t care about McNabb in the least and wants him to get hurt. Either is possible.
19.Saints – The saints are on a roll since they won their last 3, of course after losing their first 4. The saints may be rolling but Reggie cannot withstand being the number 1 rb for the entire year, he will get hurt.
20.Cardinals – The Qb issue needs to be fixed, The rest of the team cant handle it on their own.
21.Panthers – Having your best player only touch the ball twice the entire game is not going to produce W’s. Hopefully Carr will come back and fix things up for this team.
22.Bears - Injuries have just plagued this team, now they are saying that Urlacher’s back hurts. That would just be the straw…although maybe that straw has already been broken.
23.Bengals – The Bengal’s defense just can’t do it, they need to step up at some point to give this team a chance but they are not coming close. And going into buffalo isn’t going to be a great place to get a win, considering they have lost their last 8 to them.
24.Texans – Schaub going down is a heartbreaker. This team really needs to get their injured back on the field. Schaub and Johnson need to get back into the game.
25.Bills – Losman back in action. That can’t be great considering a rookie took his spot this year. Positive was that he threw the bomb to win the game last week. Negative was that the ball was under thrown by about twenty yards.
26.Vikings - TAVARIS JACKSON…man he is awful…
27.49ers – They are just bad, Alex Smith and Frank Gore can do nothing to turn this season around…Love how the Pats get their 1st rounder this year, could be one of the best moves a football office has ever made.
28.Raiders – 2-5, after a promising start the Raiders have fallen apart. Should be playing for another #1 pick for next year.
29.Falcons – This team has been ravaged by Michael Vick and now its DeAngelo Hall. Any team that needs to fine their players for speaking out about their coach is not going to go to the playoffs.
30.Jets – Kellen Clemens, Lets see what you got. This team really cant get any worse so why not throw in a back up.
31.Rams – Steven Jackson plays one half then gets out for back spasms. That is not a good sign for Fantasy owners. This has been one hugely disappointing season for the Rams.
32.Dolphins – Can’t even win in London. There is no help for this team, they go defeated on the season.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Trap Game Alert!
Washington is coming off a huge game against New England and next week will have a divisional matchup against Philly. This week they travel to the Meadowlands which will be surprisingly upbeat since the New York media and fans finally got Pennington benched.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Norv Turn(ing) it around?
In the Chargers 4 wins, Philip Rivers has thrown for 186.5 yards per game, in the 3 losses he has thrown for 232 per game. In the 4 wins he has 31, 18, 21 and 11 passing attempts, in the 3 losses he has 30, 36 and 42 attempts. The key to this team is defense and LDT, for some reason Norv did not get that memo until week 6. Philip Rivers is a mediocre quarterback at best, which in most cases would be fine for a young QB. However this is an exceptionally good team, which makes him the weak link.
This team is finding it's swagger again, but the process won't be quick. Norv had this team at rock bottom and the fans were calling for Marty. It will take sustained success for this team to really believe in itself again. It will be a tough road because SD has the toughest second half schedule in the NFL, only one team (Raiders week 17) is not a legit playoff contender in the AFC or NFC.
It still seems that SD is one of the only true threats to the Patriots. I would like to see them get to the playoffs for another chance...they will really have to earn it though. All of the pundits will most likely put SD as the favorite in the AFC West again. I am more hesitant, this teams seems to be fighting not only a brutal schedule but a brutally under informed coach. SD fans can only hope that Norv is truly Turn(ing) it around.
This team is finding it's swagger again, but the process won't be quick. Norv had this team at rock bottom and the fans were calling for Marty. It will take sustained success for this team to really believe in itself again. It will be a tough road because SD has the toughest second half schedule in the NFL, only one team (Raiders week 17) is not a legit playoff contender in the AFC or NFC.
It still seems that SD is one of the only true threats to the Patriots. I would like to see them get to the playoffs for another chance...they will really have to earn it though. All of the pundits will most likely put SD as the favorite in the AFC West again. I am more hesitant, this teams seems to be fighting not only a brutal schedule but a brutally under informed coach. SD fans can only hope that Norv is truly Turn(ing) it around.
Patriots whoop the Skins
The Pats Colts game this upcoming weekend is sure to be a great one, it will finally define which team is the superior in the high powered AFC. But before all the hooplah for the Colts Pats game we should look at what the Patriots did to the skins.
It really was a drumming, 52-7 which is worse than what both the Dolphins and Jets produced on them. Now I'm not saying that the Redskins are a bad team and if they were playing either the phins or the Jets I would assume the Skins would lay a beating down. However, this game does reveal what the Redskins have become, which is a mediocre team. For all the talk, including on this blog, about the NFC East producing three teams in the playoffs I would assume that this game has shown that the NFC East will not. The Patriots were the better team from the first snap throwing down 24 in the first half including the 8th straight opening drive score. After the half it was still all NE as they steam rolled (perhaps a little too much) to a 52-7 win. The 7 coming with 3 minutes left in the game.
There has been issues with the way the Patriots ran up the score on Washington which is typical of the way the Pats have been playing this year. However, it is my opinion that this is the National Football League, if you want to stop someone from scoring 52 on you, then you should stop them. Yes Brady threw on 4th downs and tried a deep bomb to Randy Moss when the score was still 38-0 but Washington is supposed to have one of the best, if not the best, secondaries in the League. Stop them if you dont want them to continue to put points up.
After the game Joe Gibbs said "I don't know of a weakness that they have," when asked what he felt about how the Patriots brought up the score on them. he said "I have no problem at all with the way they played. If they want to get 100 points, that's up to them, We're just trying to stop them."
Although not every Redskin took it that way. "I said something to [Belichick] after the game," Godfrey said, according to NBCSports.com. "I told him, 'You need to show some respect for the game.' You just don't do that. I don't care how bad it is. You're up 35 points and you're still throwing deep? That's no respect."
Any way you throw it the Patriots beat the Skins 52-7 and are marching into Indy for one of the most hyped regular season showdowns of all time.
It really was a drumming, 52-7 which is worse than what both the Dolphins and Jets produced on them. Now I'm not saying that the Redskins are a bad team and if they were playing either the phins or the Jets I would assume the Skins would lay a beating down. However, this game does reveal what the Redskins have become, which is a mediocre team. For all the talk, including on this blog, about the NFC East producing three teams in the playoffs I would assume that this game has shown that the NFC East will not. The Patriots were the better team from the first snap throwing down 24 in the first half including the 8th straight opening drive score. After the half it was still all NE as they steam rolled (perhaps a little too much) to a 52-7 win. The 7 coming with 3 minutes left in the game.
There has been issues with the way the Patriots ran up the score on Washington which is typical of the way the Pats have been playing this year. However, it is my opinion that this is the National Football League, if you want to stop someone from scoring 52 on you, then you should stop them. Yes Brady threw on 4th downs and tried a deep bomb to Randy Moss when the score was still 38-0 but Washington is supposed to have one of the best, if not the best, secondaries in the League. Stop them if you dont want them to continue to put points up.
After the game Joe Gibbs said "I don't know of a weakness that they have," when asked what he felt about how the Patriots brought up the score on them. he said "I have no problem at all with the way they played. If they want to get 100 points, that's up to them, We're just trying to stop them."
Although not every Redskin took it that way. "I said something to [Belichick] after the game," Godfrey said, according to NBCSports.com. "I told him, 'You need to show some respect for the game.' You just don't do that. I don't care how bad it is. You're up 35 points and you're still throwing deep? That's no respect."
Any way you throw it the Patriots beat the Skins 52-7 and are marching into Indy for one of the most hyped regular season showdowns of all time.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Week 8 Picks
NY Giants at
Philadelphia at Minnesota (+1) – Everything about Minnesota is legit except for Tarvaris Jackson and their WRs, that combination makes for some of the ugliest passing plays I have ever seen in my life. However, this team matches up really well against Philly. Their run D can shut down Westbrook through the middle and on the outside. Plus, they have a Westbrook of their own in All Day Peterson. AD is gonna go nuts on a Dawkins-less Eagles defense, I have never seen a defensive unit that is so reliant on one player, they can’t replace him with anyone. Upset count at 2.
Pittsburgh at Cincinnati (+3.5) – There is only one team worse (Miami, .538) than the Bungles in terms of points given up per play the D is on the field (.475). That means almost every other snap the Bengals give up a point. That stat actually includes ST points and points given up by the Cincy offense…but they need to be counted if the team lets that happen. Big Ben is not the type of QB that will go out and beat a good team for you. However, he is not going to make a lot of mistakes and he will make a few plays to help Pitt win. Pitt is going to run all over Cincy and control the clock. Pitt to win and cover, cue
Wash at NE (-16) – This opened at 16.5 and is an amazing line because Vegas actually got people to bet against NE. Brilliant. The Pats are gonna cover but it won't happen like against the Dolphins or Jets. I can't see JC or the running game of the Skins getting anything big-time done against the Pats, but I do think they will be able to hold the ball or generate field goals. 7 to 3 end of 1st, 14 to 6 end of half, 21 to 9 end of 3rd, 28 to 12 end of game (16pts lead)...then you have to factor in the meaningless eff you TD when the Skins have already given up...23 pt win for the Pats.
Soon to come…Monday Night Pick.
College Football Quick Hit - Why are ESPN analysts giving the Heisman out before the end of week9? Why are they giving it to a QB from BC who has only beaten GT (completely fallen off the map) and VT(without their best defensive player or QB in the game)? Why does BC only have two ranked teams on their schedule all year? What the hell happened to the ACC?
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Quick Hits
As I have said before, I hate the fact that there is a game in London. Nothing about it makes sense to me....but it has sparked some pretty funny interviews.
- Channing Crowder a LB for the Dolphins, says he didn't know until Tuesday that people in London speak English. He went on to say, "I couldn't find London on a map if they didn't have the names of the countries," he said. "I swear to God. I don't know what nothing is. I know Italy looks like a boot. I know London Fletcher. We did a football camp together. So I know him. That's the closest thing I know to London. He's black, so I'm sure he's not from London. I'm sure that's a coincidental name."
One may ask, "why the hell was Channing Crowder being interviewed in the first place?". It looks as if he will be the starting LB for the Phins because Zach Thomas is hurt and may not even make the trip. Add Thomas to the list and you have: Ronnie Brown, Renaldo Hill, Trent Green, Zach Thomas and Chris Chambers...all starters for Mia week 1 of this year who won't be on the field for the Phins week 8.
-In other poor getting poorer news, Vilma is possibly done for the year, definitely done for this week.
-Andre Johnson will still not be back in week 8. Which makes me look like a genius for dropping him 2 weeks ago when he was upgraded to questionable.
- In rich getting richer news (aka Patriots news), Seymour is back in pads while Maroney and Stallworth have been removed from the injury report.
- I made the "outlandish" claim 3 weeks ago that 3 teams from the AFC South and 3 teams from the NFC East would make the playoffs this year. This was not received well, and I have been the subject of much ridicule. I am gonna throw up a voting tool. Lets see what happens.
- Channing Crowder a LB for the Dolphins, says he didn't know until Tuesday that people in London speak English. He went on to say, "I couldn't find London on a map if they didn't have the names of the countries," he said. "I swear to God. I don't know what nothing is. I know Italy looks like a boot. I know London Fletcher. We did a football camp together. So I know him. That's the closest thing I know to London. He's black, so I'm sure he's not from London. I'm sure that's a coincidental name."
One may ask, "why the hell was Channing Crowder being interviewed in the first place?". It looks as if he will be the starting LB for the Phins because Zach Thomas is hurt and may not even make the trip. Add Thomas to the list and you have: Ronnie Brown, Renaldo Hill, Trent Green, Zach Thomas and Chris Chambers...all starters for Mia week 1 of this year who won't be on the field for the Phins week 8.
-In other poor getting poorer news, Vilma is possibly done for the year, definitely done for this week.
-Andre Johnson will still not be back in week 8. Which makes me look like a genius for dropping him 2 weeks ago when he was upgraded to questionable.
- In rich getting richer news (aka Patriots news), Seymour is back in pads while Maroney and Stallworth have been removed from the injury report.
- I made the "outlandish" claim 3 weeks ago that 3 teams from the AFC South and 3 teams from the NFC East would make the playoffs this year. This was not received well, and I have been the subject of much ridicule. I am gonna throw up a voting tool. Lets see what happens.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Power Rankings Week 7
1.Patriots - Beat the crap out of the Dolphins, no change here. Brady Watch, 27 TD's 23 left to go.
2.Colts - Impressive beat of the Jaguars, even though they lost their starting qb which could have changed the game immensely. Still they definitely proved they should be in the same class as the Patriots.
3.Cowboys - They are still the best team in the NFC which isn’t really saying much, I think I will probably keep them as the best team in the NFC until T.O. starts running his mouth, then they will be 32nd on this list (its going to come sooner or later).
4.Jaguars - even with the loss to the Colts they still are up here, the defense still played very well against that offense, and losing Garrard was a huge hit to this team, obvious example is Gray coming in and throwing the INT on his second throw.
5. Packers - They are about to fall, Favre is a time bomb and about to explode into the INT machine that he was last year, if i needed a fantasy defense I would first look to defenses that play, Miami, St Louis and then GB. Their running offense is so bad its disgusting.
6. Giants - They are the hottest team in the NFL if the Pack loses this week there is no doubt that they move up in a big way. They are playing Miami and right now the wins that they have are all against very bad teams. However, wins are wins and that Dline is playing like they are all pro-bowlers.
7.Chargers - I think they are back on track, they have the team moving again and LT is back to his old self. This team will put up huge numbers again. Chris Chambers doesn’t change this offense at all but gives Rivers someone who actually might not drop every pass he throws.
8.Steelers - Their Loss to Denver is unforgivable. Even though it was at Denver that should have been a win for this team, especially since they had gotten all of their injured players back in the lineup. I still think they are good but I don’t see them taking a big bite of a better team any time soon.
9.Redskins - Their almost loss was ridiculous this past week and this week they have NE at NE so they are moving to 4-3. Still a good team just not their time yet. It’s amazing that 3 of the first 4 NFC teams I have on this list are all from the same division.
10.Lions - They are playing well, sitting at 4-2 not great but it doesnt live up to their potential, with those wide outs, but I believe this offense has enough talent to make it into the playoffs.
11.Titans - Getting VY back is a huge plus, They are playing well, also sitting at 4-2, but I'm not sure this team has enough weapons.
12.Chiefs - If anyone had asked me, after the last, episode of Hard Knocks whether or not the Chiefs would be a playoff team I would have slapped them, that person would be searching for their reciprocal nut flick at this time. Damn nut flicks.
13.Buccaneers - How about Jeff Garcia, what a year the guy is having, no INTs, 106.2 Passer rating, and second best completion percentage to one man/beast/most amazing player of all time, Tom Brady (got my man crush going)
14.Broncos - Jay Cutler is playing well and they just beat the Steelers so what’s not to like??? Well I guess having the 20th ranked defense when you have two shutdown corners is a little annoying.
15.Panthers - With whoever they bring to the table at Qb, its not going to be anywhere near what De-hold-me could have produced. However they still have Steve Smith...what a beast.
16.Cardinals - What a crap show at Qb, they bring in Rattay for goal line since Warner can't hand the ball off well with that brace. Plus the play calling was just ridiculous. Bring in Rattay but put him split to one side and have Anquan Boldin (arguably the best receiver on the team) THROW THE BALL INSTEAD OF CATCH IT. Apparently it's opposite month...
17.Browns - Derek Anderson WTF...Braylon Edwards is a beast, had a bye week and is still in the top 5 fantasy WR's.
18.Seahawks - I still don’t like Shaun Alexander, what's going on with this guy??? They need to bring in someone else to run the ball preferably someone who doesn’t look and act like Tiki Barber only without the skills.
19.Bengals - This offense should still be able produce big numbers, but they just aren’t moving, the problems with Chad Johnson is getting out of control and this team can ill afford that kind of behavior at this time.
20.Ravens - The loss to buffalo was awful, that was just terrible, I cant explain how many ways that was bad. And Steve McNair isn’t all of a sudden going to change things around. Brian Billick : Play Calling :: My 2 year old cousin : Rocket Science
21.Texans - I like this team, love Schaub, think he’s going to do wonders for how this team plays. Just not yet, not this year. Plus having Andre Johnson out is like...well lets just say its like paddling up a river without a paddle.
22.Eagles - What has happened to this team, McNabb cant do it again this year, probably because of that knee, but still the rest of the team has also been a huge disappointment. Maybe too many players have been hanging with Andy Reid's sons. (that might be below the belt...although not sure Reid can wear a belt)
23.Saints - They may be turning it around, may be, still don’t think Reggie can be an all the time back, but he’s making strides.
24.Bills - Edwards named the starter even though Losman is available, great move. Edwards just beat one of the best defenses in the league; you have to keep that kid going.
25.Bears - Need a new Qb, and way to many injuries to be considered anywhere near half of what they were last year.
26.49ers - They have no passing game, Gore is their entire team. Until that changes they cannot move any higher than this. That being said Alex Smith may be coming back soon, don’t know if that matters much though.
27.Jets - what a disappointment they have been this year. I mean when Thomas Jones came in they were showing all of those pictures about how much of a stud he is and such. They forgot to mention that their offensive line was too busy playing with their daughters all off-season. MangIDIOT also has not done well coaching them at all.
28.Raiders - They started off so well, then they bottomed out. The sooner next year begins and they can bring in their Qb of the future the better.
29.Falcons - Falcons need to change things around as well, they need to draft/trade for a new Qb ASAP. Need to give Norwood the ball more, the list goes on...and on...and on.
30.Vikings - Tavaris Jackson...means the same thing as Ryan Leaf
31.Rams - They might get Steven Jackson back this week, doesn’t do much with the line that they are bringing to the table. I don’t feel bad for them that much though, that’s what SJax gets for making that ridiculous prediction pre-season. what was it 2,500 yards? yea you are 2,267 yards away and its practically half way through the season...I will give someone 1 million to 1 odds that he doesn’t break that...any takers???
32.Dolphins - Did anyone else feel bad for them last week. I did, and losing Ronnie Brown is really just kicking someone while their down...in the nuts....with steel toed boots.
2.Colts - Impressive beat of the Jaguars, even though they lost their starting qb which could have changed the game immensely. Still they definitely proved they should be in the same class as the Patriots.
3.Cowboys - They are still the best team in the NFC which isn’t really saying much, I think I will probably keep them as the best team in the NFC until T.O. starts running his mouth, then they will be 32nd on this list (its going to come sooner or later).
4.Jaguars - even with the loss to the Colts they still are up here, the defense still played very well against that offense, and losing Garrard was a huge hit to this team, obvious example is Gray coming in and throwing the INT on his second throw.
5. Packers - They are about to fall, Favre is a time bomb and about to explode into the INT machine that he was last year, if i needed a fantasy defense I would first look to defenses that play, Miami, St Louis and then GB. Their running offense is so bad its disgusting.
6. Giants - They are the hottest team in the NFL if the Pack loses this week there is no doubt that they move up in a big way. They are playing Miami and right now the wins that they have are all against very bad teams. However, wins are wins and that Dline is playing like they are all pro-bowlers.
7.Chargers - I think they are back on track, they have the team moving again and LT is back to his old self. This team will put up huge numbers again. Chris Chambers doesn’t change this offense at all but gives Rivers someone who actually might not drop every pass he throws.
8.Steelers - Their Loss to Denver is unforgivable. Even though it was at Denver that should have been a win for this team, especially since they had gotten all of their injured players back in the lineup. I still think they are good but I don’t see them taking a big bite of a better team any time soon.
9.Redskins - Their almost loss was ridiculous this past week and this week they have NE at NE so they are moving to 4-3. Still a good team just not their time yet. It’s amazing that 3 of the first 4 NFC teams I have on this list are all from the same division.
10.Lions - They are playing well, sitting at 4-2 not great but it doesnt live up to their potential, with those wide outs, but I believe this offense has enough talent to make it into the playoffs.
11.Titans - Getting VY back is a huge plus, They are playing well, also sitting at 4-2, but I'm not sure this team has enough weapons.
12.Chiefs - If anyone had asked me, after the last, episode of Hard Knocks whether or not the Chiefs would be a playoff team I would have slapped them, that person would be searching for their reciprocal nut flick at this time. Damn nut flicks.
13.Buccaneers - How about Jeff Garcia, what a year the guy is having, no INTs, 106.2 Passer rating, and second best completion percentage to one man/beast/most amazing player of all time, Tom Brady (got my man crush going)
14.Broncos - Jay Cutler is playing well and they just beat the Steelers so what’s not to like??? Well I guess having the 20th ranked defense when you have two shutdown corners is a little annoying.
15.Panthers - With whoever they bring to the table at Qb, its not going to be anywhere near what De-hold-me could have produced. However they still have Steve Smith...what a beast.
16.Cardinals - What a crap show at Qb, they bring in Rattay for goal line since Warner can't hand the ball off well with that brace. Plus the play calling was just ridiculous. Bring in Rattay but put him split to one side and have Anquan Boldin (arguably the best receiver on the team) THROW THE BALL INSTEAD OF CATCH IT. Apparently it's opposite month...
17.Browns - Derek Anderson WTF...Braylon Edwards is a beast, had a bye week and is still in the top 5 fantasy WR's.
18.Seahawks - I still don’t like Shaun Alexander, what's going on with this guy??? They need to bring in someone else to run the ball preferably someone who doesn’t look and act like Tiki Barber only without the skills.
19.Bengals - This offense should still be able produce big numbers, but they just aren’t moving, the problems with Chad Johnson is getting out of control and this team can ill afford that kind of behavior at this time.
20.Ravens - The loss to buffalo was awful, that was just terrible, I cant explain how many ways that was bad. And Steve McNair isn’t all of a sudden going to change things around. Brian Billick : Play Calling :: My 2 year old cousin : Rocket Science
21.Texans - I like this team, love Schaub, think he’s going to do wonders for how this team plays. Just not yet, not this year. Plus having Andre Johnson out is like...well lets just say its like paddling up a river without a paddle.
22.Eagles - What has happened to this team, McNabb cant do it again this year, probably because of that knee, but still the rest of the team has also been a huge disappointment. Maybe too many players have been hanging with Andy Reid's sons. (that might be below the belt...although not sure Reid can wear a belt)
23.Saints - They may be turning it around, may be, still don’t think Reggie can be an all the time back, but he’s making strides.
24.Bills - Edwards named the starter even though Losman is available, great move. Edwards just beat one of the best defenses in the league; you have to keep that kid going.
25.Bears - Need a new Qb, and way to many injuries to be considered anywhere near half of what they were last year.
26.49ers - They have no passing game, Gore is their entire team. Until that changes they cannot move any higher than this. That being said Alex Smith may be coming back soon, don’t know if that matters much though.
27.Jets - what a disappointment they have been this year. I mean when Thomas Jones came in they were showing all of those pictures about how much of a stud he is and such. They forgot to mention that their offensive line was too busy playing with their daughters all off-season. MangIDIOT also has not done well coaching them at all.
28.Raiders - They started off so well, then they bottomed out. The sooner next year begins and they can bring in their Qb of the future the better.
29.Falcons - Falcons need to change things around as well, they need to draft/trade for a new Qb ASAP. Need to give Norwood the ball more, the list goes on...and on...and on.
30.Vikings - Tavaris Jackson...means the same thing as Ryan Leaf
31.Rams - They might get Steven Jackson back this week, doesn’t do much with the line that they are bringing to the table. I don’t feel bad for them that much though, that’s what SJax gets for making that ridiculous prediction pre-season. what was it 2,500 yards? yea you are 2,267 yards away and its practically half way through the season...I will give someone 1 million to 1 odds that he doesn’t break that...any takers???
32.Dolphins - Did anyone else feel bad for them last week. I did, and losing Ronnie Brown is really just kicking someone while their down...in the nuts....with steel toed boots.
"They're going to have to stop this fight before somebody gets killed."
Is it just me or is this Pats/Colts game getting comically blown out of proportion, it’s practically being billed as “the game to end all games” (at least until they meet again in the playoffs). The intense media hype has started to remind of the Captain Ivan Drago vs. Rocky Balboa fight in Rocky IV. The Colts are Rocky, beloved by America and the current “champ”. The Patriots are the evil and seemingly unstoppable force that is Ivan Drago. Even the Cowboys fit in as America’s darling, Apollo Creed, that everyone hoped could expose some weakness in the Patriots but deep down we knew they were doomed. As we all saw, the Patriots “went Drago” on the Boys and shattered their dreams in disturbing fashion which caused a collective NFL gasp, “"He is not human, he is a piece of iron".
Although Mick didn’t make it all the way to Rocky IV, there are many parallels that can be drawn from him to Tony Dungy. Both look dangerously unhealthy but still manage to motivate and teach their pupils in a quiet, reserved style. While, Bill Belicheck and the Russian trainers share the same “winning is all that matters” mentality and are willing to do anything to achieve that goal.
I can almost picture Freeney running off after a third down sack sometime early in the Nov 4th game and all the coordinators are spilling onto the field screaming, “You see? You see? He's not a machine, he's a man, he's a man!”
But what I can’t seem to figure out is who will have the “If I can change, you can change” moment.
Although Mick didn’t make it all the way to Rocky IV, there are many parallels that can be drawn from him to Tony Dungy. Both look dangerously unhealthy but still manage to motivate and teach their pupils in a quiet, reserved style. While, Bill Belicheck and the Russian trainers share the same “winning is all that matters” mentality and are willing to do anything to achieve that goal.
I can almost picture Freeney running off after a third down sack sometime early in the Nov 4th game and all the coordinators are spilling onto the field screaming, “You see? You see? He's not a machine, he's a man, he's a man!”
But what I can’t seem to figure out is who will have the “If I can change, you can change” moment.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
2007 QB categories: Where they stand after Week 7.
Mythical Beast (Play at a level that is incomprehensible to mere mortals in terms of decision making, execution and wins. There is a HUGE gap between these guys and the next best)
Peyton
Brady
Good - Win a lot and/or put up good numbers.
Romo
Palmer
Big Ben (It's tough to play/throw in Denver…I just gave Ben his mully)
Hasselbeck (Everytime I think Zona or SF has put something together to compete with Seattle they poop themselves. I can't wait to knock Hasselbeck out of this category)
Decent - Secure jobs, will win some games, spots of stupidity
Eli Manning
Brett Favre
WTF?- Can't believe these guys are relevant, either because their teams are winning too many games or their stats are too high... or both.
Derek Anderson
Jeff Garcia
Jon Kitna
Up and coming- Show signs of life, but don't quite put it all together week to week.
Jason Campbell
Vince Young
Matt Schaub
Trent Edwards (looks like he has got that job…kid has two wins Balt and Jets)
Underachievers - Very disappointing week in and week out. Frequently freak out and make horrible decisions. Should be winning more with team around them and with what they have done in the past.
D-Nabb
Drew Brees
Overrated - Not as good as people want to think they are. Have good supporting casts but really are not good enough to lead them.
Jay Cutler
Philip Rivers
David Garrard
Alex Smith (His return won't mean as much to SF as people think)
Basement- These teams need to just hand the ball off.
Damon Huard
Vinny T/ David Carr - This is brutal.
Whoever Oakland is bringing to the table (it looks like if Oakland resolves this it could be legit team)
St. Louis QB #? (This could be the toughest for St. Loo management because Bulger just got a huge contract)
Steve McNair (Who is more disappointing than McNair this year?...)
Chad Pennington (At least we know Eric Mangini doesn't get caught up in what the fans are saying)
Andre Woodson Sweepstakes (No one really knows who is trotting out there and no one cares.)
Cleo Lemon (without Ronnie Brown he can't even "just hand the ball off")
Arizona job opening (Why did Zona feel it was necessary to prove what the Giants and the Rams have already?)
John Joseph or Byron Leftwich
Tarvaris Jackson (Below the basement/Worst QB in the history of the NFL)
Tarvaris Jackson (He looked more than inept this week against Dallas's secondary. Can someone please explain to me what Brad Childress is thinking? I feel like I am taking crazy pills.)
Stats that make you say WTF?
- Brian Griese is averaging over 300 yards passing per-game.
- Eli has 2 more TD passes than his brother.
- Tom Brady has more TD passes, through 7 games (27), than 9 NFL teams had all last year.
- Jon Kitna has been sacked 28 times… in 6 games.
- Drew Brees has thrown twice as many INTs (10) than TDs (5).
- Derek Anderson is the 11th rated QB in the NFL.
- Tarvaris Jackson is a starting QB in the NFL.
Peyton
Brady
Good - Win a lot and/or put up good numbers.
Romo
Palmer
Big Ben (It's tough to play/throw in Denver…I just gave Ben his mully)
Hasselbeck (Everytime I think Zona or SF has put something together to compete with Seattle they poop themselves. I can't wait to knock Hasselbeck out of this category)
Decent - Secure jobs, will win some games, spots of stupidity
Eli Manning
Brett Favre
WTF?- Can't believe these guys are relevant, either because their teams are winning too many games or their stats are too high... or both.
Derek Anderson
Jeff Garcia
Jon Kitna
Up and coming- Show signs of life, but don't quite put it all together week to week.
Jason Campbell
Vince Young
Matt Schaub
Trent Edwards (looks like he has got that job…kid has two wins Balt and Jets)
Underachievers - Very disappointing week in and week out. Frequently freak out and make horrible decisions. Should be winning more with team around them and with what they have done in the past.
D-Nabb
Drew Brees
Overrated - Not as good as people want to think they are. Have good supporting casts but really are not good enough to lead them.
Jay Cutler
Philip Rivers
David Garrard
Alex Smith (His return won't mean as much to SF as people think)
Basement- These teams need to just hand the ball off.
Damon Huard
Vinny T/ David Carr - This is brutal.
Whoever Oakland is bringing to the table (it looks like if Oakland resolves this it could be legit team)
St. Louis QB #? (This could be the toughest for St. Loo management because Bulger just got a huge contract)
Steve McNair (Who is more disappointing than McNair this year?...)
Chad Pennington (At least we know Eric Mangini doesn't get caught up in what the fans are saying)
Andre Woodson Sweepstakes (No one really knows who is trotting out there and no one cares.)
Cleo Lemon (without Ronnie Brown he can't even "just hand the ball off")
Arizona job opening (Why did Zona feel it was necessary to prove what the Giants and the Rams have already?)
John Joseph or Byron Leftwich
Tarvaris Jackson (Below the basement/Worst QB in the history of the NFL)
Tarvaris Jackson (He looked more than inept this week against Dallas's secondary. Can someone please explain to me what Brad Childress is thinking? I feel like I am taking crazy pills.)
Stats that make you say WTF?
- Brian Griese is averaging over 300 yards passing per-game.
- Eli has 2 more TD passes than his brother.
- Tom Brady has more TD passes, through 7 games (27), than 9 NFL teams had all last year.
- Jon Kitna has been sacked 28 times… in 6 games.
- Drew Brees has thrown twice as many INTs (10) than TDs (5).
- Derek Anderson is the 11th rated QB in the NFL.
- Tarvaris Jackson is a starting QB in the NFL.
Is McNabb done in Phily?
Donovan McNabb may be playing his last season in Philly. That’s an unbelievable thing to say because of his accomplishments but it’s very much a possibility. Since his arrival in Philly he has been taken in like a disfigured Spartan child in 300. He is booed as he is drafted second overall, since the Eagles fans were hoping for Ricky Williams. He was the center of all kinds of controversy with T.O. and with the way he played in Super Bowl 39, he just hasn’t heard the end of it. He has constantly been criticized for the way he plays and how he has performed in the big game but even through all of that, he is a great Qb, although in the wrong town.
What if this is Donovan’s Last season in Philadelphia, what could be waiting for him on the other side of the fence? Well, there are plenty of teams that are going to be looking for quarterbacks after this season with all the injuries and poor play, and to go after one in the draft wouldn’t be a terrible move however if you need immediate helpy, to be able to pick up a Qb of Donovan’s status may be ideal. Teams such as Kansas City, Atlanta, Minnesota and Chicago should be looking next year and McNabb can fit with them all. Kansas City is in dire need of a good qb, Brody Croyle will not be able to handle that team yet and he might not be the future of this team. What if McNabb ends up there and gets the running game of Larry Johnson and the receiving combo of Dwayne Bowes and Tony G. The team is infinitely better. Or how about Chicago, Donovan was born in Chicago and played his high school ball there, so he may want to get back to his roots. That could be devastating for teams if Chicago would be able to get a real Qb into that offense, would just be dangerous. Atlanta could try to get back into a more scrambling offense with McNabb at the helm. Anything can happen once he leaves his black hole.
If this is indeed Donovan’s last year in Philly I cant wait to see where he could end up and what that team could prove.
What if this is Donovan’s Last season in Philadelphia, what could be waiting for him on the other side of the fence? Well, there are plenty of teams that are going to be looking for quarterbacks after this season with all the injuries and poor play, and to go after one in the draft wouldn’t be a terrible move however if you need immediate helpy, to be able to pick up a Qb of Donovan’s status may be ideal. Teams such as Kansas City, Atlanta, Minnesota and Chicago should be looking next year and McNabb can fit with them all. Kansas City is in dire need of a good qb, Brody Croyle will not be able to handle that team yet and he might not be the future of this team. What if McNabb ends up there and gets the running game of Larry Johnson and the receiving combo of Dwayne Bowes and Tony G. The team is infinitely better. Or how about Chicago, Donovan was born in Chicago and played his high school ball there, so he may want to get back to his roots. That could be devastating for teams if Chicago would be able to get a real Qb into that offense, would just be dangerous. Atlanta could try to get back into a more scrambling offense with McNabb at the helm. Anything can happen once he leaves his black hole.
If this is indeed Donovan’s last year in Philly I cant wait to see where he could end up and what that team could prove.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Big-Time Blue
The G-Men did a lot of things right this week. This is all well documented on ESPN and by every NY sportswriter. I just have two points to make about the game.
-Eli needs to take the next step at some point this season if they want to be really dangerous. QB ratings in the low 80s aren't going to beat any other playoff caliber team. He managed to not hoist a pick stupid coverage (the one he through was more a bad tip then his fault). Eli's first drive of the game he looked great, and he has been giving us 2 or 3 of these a game. For the Giants to be real contenders he will need to do this more consistently.
-Lawrence Tynes is bad...you need a kicker to be a contender in the NFL. In recent years we have seen the importance of kickers in the playoffs (i.e. Colts addition of Vinatieri) and this year Elam has 3 game winning field goals, without him that team would be 0-6. Rob Bironas came out this week and single handedly won a close game for the Titans.
LEAVE Plaxico HOME....thats right, I said it.
Each game we see Plax noticably limping by half-time. He is still having an amazing year but we will need him 100% healthy to go anywhere in the playoffs and more importantly we will need him to avoid a nasty second half slide like the G-men have had the last 2 years.
Plax should stay in the states this week and take the game off against a Ronnie Brown-less Miami team. We will have Steve Smith back and Amani has been playing great. That will give Plax all this week and the bye week to get as close to 100% as possible. He will return at home for the Cowboys, where we will need him big-time.
5-2 ain't bad at all. It's time to look for the playoffs.
-Eli needs to take the next step at some point this season if they want to be really dangerous. QB ratings in the low 80s aren't going to beat any other playoff caliber team. He managed to not hoist a pick stupid coverage (the one he through was more a bad tip then his fault). Eli's first drive of the game he looked great, and he has been giving us 2 or 3 of these a game. For the Giants to be real contenders he will need to do this more consistently.
-Lawrence Tynes is bad...you need a kicker to be a contender in the NFL. In recent years we have seen the importance of kickers in the playoffs (i.e. Colts addition of Vinatieri) and this year Elam has 3 game winning field goals, without him that team would be 0-6. Rob Bironas came out this week and single handedly won a close game for the Titans.
LEAVE Plaxico HOME....thats right, I said it.
Each game we see Plax noticably limping by half-time. He is still having an amazing year but we will need him 100% healthy to go anywhere in the playoffs and more importantly we will need him to avoid a nasty second half slide like the G-men have had the last 2 years.
Plax should stay in the states this week and take the game off against a Ronnie Brown-less Miami team. We will have Steve Smith back and Amani has been playing great. That will give Plax all this week and the bye week to get as close to 100% as possible. He will return at home for the Cowboys, where we will need him big-time.
5-2 ain't bad at all. It's time to look for the playoffs.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Giants v 49ers - Game Preview
What the Giants need to do to win:
1) Stop Frank Gore... okay it is probably not reasonable to ask the Giants to hold Gore under 50 and completely stop him. But they do need to slow him down and hold him to under 100. If Gore gets going it will force the Giants to adjust and this will make it easier on Trent Dilfer to "take what the defense gives him" and move the ball on short and intermediate routes. Stopping Gore will force Dilfer to become the playmaker which is not what he is.
2) Even if the Giants slow Frank Gore, SF is a running to team so they will be running on 1st and 2nd often. We are gonna see a lot of 3rd and 5 to 3rd and 1s today. The Giants defense has to get off the field on these situations. They were able to do this effectively over the last 4 games (this is also what killed them against GB when they could not get off the field).
3) The Giants need to run the ball. If they can run the ball effectively then they might not need Eli to do anything at all to win this game. But in case he is still needed this will open up play-action.
4) Spread the ball around on offense. Clements makes the big bucks for a reason...he has size and skills. This is probably the worst matchup Plax will have all year. Eli should get Toomer, Shock, Smith (hopefully) into the game.
5) This one will be here for every week until Eli proves me wrong... Stop HOISTING the ball. Turnovers kill, the Giants aren't that much better than SF to give them any gifts.
Final Prediction: Giants 23, SF 17
1) Stop Frank Gore... okay it is probably not reasonable to ask the Giants to hold Gore under 50 and completely stop him. But they do need to slow him down and hold him to under 100. If Gore gets going it will force the Giants to adjust and this will make it easier on Trent Dilfer to "take what the defense gives him" and move the ball on short and intermediate routes. Stopping Gore will force Dilfer to become the playmaker which is not what he is.
2) Even if the Giants slow Frank Gore, SF is a running to team so they will be running on 1st and 2nd often. We are gonna see a lot of 3rd and 5 to 3rd and 1s today. The Giants defense has to get off the field on these situations. They were able to do this effectively over the last 4 games (this is also what killed them against GB when they could not get off the field).
3) The Giants need to run the ball. If they can run the ball effectively then they might not need Eli to do anything at all to win this game. But in case he is still needed this will open up play-action.
4) Spread the ball around on offense. Clements makes the big bucks for a reason...he has size and skills. This is probably the worst matchup Plax will have all year. Eli should get Toomer, Shock, Smith (hopefully) into the game.
5) This one will be here for every week until Eli proves me wrong... Stop HOISTING the ball. Turnovers kill, the Giants aren't that much better than SF to give them any gifts.
Final Prediction: Giants 23, SF 17
Friday, October 19, 2007
NFL Predictions
Some good games this week with Jags Indy, as well as some games that will determine whether or not they have to pack it in for the year and start playing for 1st pick in 2008 draft ie eagles bears and jets cincy. Start with the blowout of the week.
New England at Miami (1 p.m.): Should be a blow out, however the Patriots will be the first to point out that they have been beaten by the Dolphins 4 out of the last 6 games they playing in Miami as well they shut out NE's offense last year. That being said, Patriots still blow them out.
Line: Miami getting 16.5
Atlanta at New Orleans (1 p.m.) New Orleans came out strong last week and were able to notch up a win finally. I think they continue it into this game and beat up on a weak Atlanta team, Leftwhich will make no difference.
Line: New Orleans giving 9
San Francisco at New York Giants (1 p.m.): Eli Manning has to stop heaving the ball when he gets into trouble. The "kid" still drops back and chucks it into groups of defenders a couple times per week. However at least he has an arm that can throw the ball, Alex Smith on the other hand (if he plays) may not be able to throw the ball more than 20 yards. Giants win this but i think it is a close game, Frank Gore will keep SF in it for a while.
Line: New York (A) giving 9
Arizona at Washington (1 p.m.): Arizona has no one to bring to the table, a banged up Warner will not get the job done, Washington wins it.
Line: Washington giving 9
Tennessee at Houston (1 p.m.): The Titans have qb issues with Vince Young and that may make the difference. Houston is playing great ball and Schaub actually makes this team feel like its a winner. Houston takes this one barely.
Line Houston getting 1
Baltimore at Buffalo (1 p.m.): The Ravens defense should screw with Edwards all day; they really can make this kid go nuts by the end of the game. Although the Ravens are bringing Boller to the table they still win this one.
Line: Buffalo getting 3
Minnesota at Dallas (1 p.m.): Dallas has to deal with the loss to the Patriots last week which shouldn’t be hard but by the way Patrick Crayton and the Dallas offense cried after the game who knows. Adrian Peterson had a great game last week, unbelievable really. But that will not happen this week, Dallas is going to stack the box and will be able to hold him down. Dallas wins.
Line: Dallas giving 9.5
Tampa Bay at Detroit (1 p.m.): Tampa Bay is playing lights out, however they haven’t had a running game. This week since the Detroit lions have such a terrible defense expect Earnest Graham to come out strong. Although, this game will be played by the Detroit offense and the Tampa Defense, should be fireworks. Tampa's defense will be the factor and they will come away with the win.
Line: Detroit giving 2.5
Kansas City at Oakland (4:05 p.m.): The Chiefs were not clicking early however that has changed. LJ finally got his legs again and put up big numbers and nothing on Oaklands defense suggests they can stop him. As well Bowe and Tony G are making moves. KC wins in the black darkness known as Oakland.
Line: Oakland giving 3
New York Jets at Cincinnati (4:15 p.m.): The Bengals should not only have one win, its unreal that this offense is producing that little. However, the Jets are not going to have anyone to stop them and CJ TJ and Carson should blow up in this game. Look for Thomas Jones to have a great game, and maybe even a Kellen Clemens sighting.
Line: Cincy giving 6
Chicago at Philadelphia (4:15 p.m.): Chicagos defense is ravished with injuries, they are unrecognizable from last year. Philly is not in any better shape but Westbrook and McNabb should tear this D apart. Philly wins.
Line: Philly giving 5
St. Louis at Seattle (4:15 p.m.): St Louis is terrible...let me say that again, they are terrible. Seattle wins this even without Branch. (Hint: good fantasy note, play everyone who plays the rams each week)
Line: Seattle giving 8.5
Pittsburgh at Denver (8:15 p.m.): Pittsburgh has been able to find a way to win even without a couple key guys, and now they are getting them back. Denver doesnt really have a chance.
Line: Denever getting 3.5
Indianapolis at Jacksonville (8:30 p.m.): The great game of the week. Garrard is playing great, the running game is awesome and they are in Jacksonville. Indy is going to go in with something to prove (that they should be the ones everyone talks about) and they just had the bye week. Should be a great game. Jacksonville wins with the home field advantage.
Line: Jags getting 3
(Home teams are the ones getting or giving)
New England at Miami (1 p.m.): Should be a blow out, however the Patriots will be the first to point out that they have been beaten by the Dolphins 4 out of the last 6 games they playing in Miami as well they shut out NE's offense last year. That being said, Patriots still blow them out.
Line: Miami getting 16.5
Atlanta at New Orleans (1 p.m.) New Orleans came out strong last week and were able to notch up a win finally. I think they continue it into this game and beat up on a weak Atlanta team, Leftwhich will make no difference.
Line: New Orleans giving 9
San Francisco at New York Giants (1 p.m.): Eli Manning has to stop heaving the ball when he gets into trouble. The "kid" still drops back and chucks it into groups of defenders a couple times per week. However at least he has an arm that can throw the ball, Alex Smith on the other hand (if he plays) may not be able to throw the ball more than 20 yards. Giants win this but i think it is a close game, Frank Gore will keep SF in it for a while.
Line: New York (A) giving 9
Arizona at Washington (1 p.m.): Arizona has no one to bring to the table, a banged up Warner will not get the job done, Washington wins it.
Line: Washington giving 9
Tennessee at Houston (1 p.m.): The Titans have qb issues with Vince Young and that may make the difference. Houston is playing great ball and Schaub actually makes this team feel like its a winner. Houston takes this one barely.
Line Houston getting 1
Baltimore at Buffalo (1 p.m.): The Ravens defense should screw with Edwards all day; they really can make this kid go nuts by the end of the game. Although the Ravens are bringing Boller to the table they still win this one.
Line: Buffalo getting 3
Minnesota at Dallas (1 p.m.): Dallas has to deal with the loss to the Patriots last week which shouldn’t be hard but by the way Patrick Crayton and the Dallas offense cried after the game who knows. Adrian Peterson had a great game last week, unbelievable really. But that will not happen this week, Dallas is going to stack the box and will be able to hold him down. Dallas wins.
Line: Dallas giving 9.5
Tampa Bay at Detroit (1 p.m.): Tampa Bay is playing lights out, however they haven’t had a running game. This week since the Detroit lions have such a terrible defense expect Earnest Graham to come out strong. Although, this game will be played by the Detroit offense and the Tampa Defense, should be fireworks. Tampa's defense will be the factor and they will come away with the win.
Line: Detroit giving 2.5
Kansas City at Oakland (4:05 p.m.): The Chiefs were not clicking early however that has changed. LJ finally got his legs again and put up big numbers and nothing on Oaklands defense suggests they can stop him. As well Bowe and Tony G are making moves. KC wins in the black darkness known as Oakland.
Line: Oakland giving 3
New York Jets at Cincinnati (4:15 p.m.): The Bengals should not only have one win, its unreal that this offense is producing that little. However, the Jets are not going to have anyone to stop them and CJ TJ and Carson should blow up in this game. Look for Thomas Jones to have a great game, and maybe even a Kellen Clemens sighting.
Line: Cincy giving 6
Chicago at Philadelphia (4:15 p.m.): Chicagos defense is ravished with injuries, they are unrecognizable from last year. Philly is not in any better shape but Westbrook and McNabb should tear this D apart. Philly wins.
Line: Philly giving 5
St. Louis at Seattle (4:15 p.m.): St Louis is terrible...let me say that again, they are terrible. Seattle wins this even without Branch. (Hint: good fantasy note, play everyone who plays the rams each week)
Line: Seattle giving 8.5
Pittsburgh at Denver (8:15 p.m.): Pittsburgh has been able to find a way to win even without a couple key guys, and now they are getting them back. Denver doesnt really have a chance.
Line: Denever getting 3.5
Indianapolis at Jacksonville (8:30 p.m.): The great game of the week. Garrard is playing great, the running game is awesome and they are in Jacksonville. Indy is going to go in with something to prove (that they should be the ones everyone talks about) and they just had the bye week. Should be a great game. Jacksonville wins with the home field advantage.
Line: Jags getting 3
(Home teams are the ones getting or giving)
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
The Trap Game Corollary
There are 4 elements to a trap game.
1) The team getting trapped is a good team.
2) The team doing the trapping is an underachieving or straight-up bad team.
3) The game before the trap game is an exhaustive, high emotion game (i.e. close-till-the-end or overtime game).
4) The team doing the trapping is the home team and the home crowd is emphatic and fanatical throughout.
5) The game after the trap game is high intensity game. This would include all division rivalries, games on Monday night, and media-driven overly-hyped games (i.e. Jets/Giants, Pats/Colts, any game with undefeated teams).
Hint: Take the underdog to win (or at least cover) whenever these 4 conditions are met
Bonus: The home team gets a key player back from injury or suspension.
Hint #2: In case of bonus, take the underdog to win.
Next trap game: Week 8, Colts at Carolina. Colts play MNF at Jax week 7, play host to New England Patriots week 9.
1) The team getting trapped is a good team.
2) The team doing the trapping is an underachieving or straight-up bad team.
3) The game before the trap game is an exhaustive, high emotion game (i.e. close-till-the-end or overtime game).
4) The team doing the trapping is the home team and the home crowd is emphatic and fanatical throughout.
5) The game after the trap game is high intensity game. This would include all division rivalries, games on Monday night, and media-driven overly-hyped games (i.e. Jets/Giants, Pats/Colts, any game with undefeated teams).
Hint: Take the underdog to win (or at least cover) whenever these 4 conditions are met
Bonus: The home team gets a key player back from injury or suspension.
Hint #2: In case of bonus, take the underdog to win.
Next trap game: Week 8, Colts at Carolina. Colts play MNF at Jax week 7, play host to New England Patriots week 9.
Power Rankings
1.Patriots - have just been dominant. Worst quote of the week ""We'll see them again. If they make it to Arizona, we'll see them again. If they make it to Arizona, we'll see them again."Patrick Crayton.
2.Colts - Huge game this week, Jaguars. Running game is paramount for Colts to stop
3.Cowboys - Best in the NFC, dont know how much that really means right now but there it is.
4.Steelers - A very good team that has been able to find a way to win without a couple starters.
5.Jaguars - Garrard is playing great ball plus the running game is firing on all cylinders.
6.Packers - Favre is back to his old self but this team is still finding ways to win
7.Buccaneers - Playing very well even without a running game, which bennet should help.
8.Chargers - Back in the swing of things, they are going to be dominant from here on out.
9.Ravens - Offense is struggling but defense can carry this team for a while, unlike the bears.
10.Giants - Defense is cruising, Eli is playing well, and they have spots where they can improve greatly.
11.Titans - Playing well, will have to see where VY is at with his injury. (last heard it was just quad and he was day - day...)
12.Lions - Offense is killin it right now, with Kitna throwing decent games. (Roy Williams may now tip pizza boys btw.)
13.Redskins - They are playing well but i think there time is a couple more years from now, not getting enough production out of their offense.
14.Panthers - Qb issue is well...an issue.
15.Cardinals - See above
16.Browns - Derrek Anderson has come out with guns blasting, he and Braylon Edwards are clicking like a big time combo.
17.Seahawks - Alexander is awful...enough said.
18.Eagles - Awful start, Westbrook is entire team and McNabb cant get back to his old self yet.
19.Chiefs - Playing well but im just waiting for them to collapse, neither Huard or Croyle will be able to win in a big game.
20.Texans - Has potential, but they desperately need Andre Johnson back in the lineup.
21.Raiders - Needs to get their Qb figured out. Culpepper cannot carry this team.
22.Bears - Qb's are terrible, Defense has two many injuries. Loss to Phili this week and their season is over.
23.49ers - Alex Smith might be coming back this week.
24.Vikings - Tavaris Jackson, enough said.
25.Jets - Reference above, insert Chad Pennington. No arm kills all passing game, including long ball. short outs, or anything to anyone but the TE
26.Bengals - Defense is awful, offense cant carry it. Rudi Johnson has become a non-factor.
27.Saints - Playing very badly, they may have had a turn around game but need to carry it this week.
28.Broncos - Got whupped at home, never a good sign
29.Falcons - Joey Harrington cant be the number 1 guy here, Vick destroyed this team.
30.Bills - Trent Edwards is playing well but Lee Evans isnt getting enough looks and the defense has way to many injuries.
31.Rams - Stephen Jackson, Marc Bulger. They need these guys back to win at least 1 game.
32.Dolphins - I hope the Patriots play their scout team. Already given up on season with the trade for Chris Chambers.
Matchup of the Week, 1) Colts Jags. Jaguars are hot right now and its played in Jacksonville.
2) Battle for their lives, Eagles Bears. Loser is looking to drop teh rest of teh season to get number 1 pick.
2.Colts - Huge game this week, Jaguars. Running game is paramount for Colts to stop
3.Cowboys - Best in the NFC, dont know how much that really means right now but there it is.
4.Steelers - A very good team that has been able to find a way to win without a couple starters.
5.Jaguars - Garrard is playing great ball plus the running game is firing on all cylinders.
6.Packers - Favre is back to his old self but this team is still finding ways to win
7.Buccaneers - Playing very well even without a running game, which bennet should help.
8.Chargers - Back in the swing of things, they are going to be dominant from here on out.
9.Ravens - Offense is struggling but defense can carry this team for a while, unlike the bears.
10.Giants - Defense is cruising, Eli is playing well, and they have spots where they can improve greatly.
11.Titans - Playing well, will have to see where VY is at with his injury. (last heard it was just quad and he was day - day...)
12.Lions - Offense is killin it right now, with Kitna throwing decent games. (Roy Williams may now tip pizza boys btw.)
13.Redskins - They are playing well but i think there time is a couple more years from now, not getting enough production out of their offense.
14.Panthers - Qb issue is well...an issue.
15.Cardinals - See above
16.Browns - Derrek Anderson has come out with guns blasting, he and Braylon Edwards are clicking like a big time combo.
17.Seahawks - Alexander is awful...enough said.
18.Eagles - Awful start, Westbrook is entire team and McNabb cant get back to his old self yet.
19.Chiefs - Playing well but im just waiting for them to collapse, neither Huard or Croyle will be able to win in a big game.
20.Texans - Has potential, but they desperately need Andre Johnson back in the lineup.
21.Raiders - Needs to get their Qb figured out. Culpepper cannot carry this team.
22.Bears - Qb's are terrible, Defense has two many injuries. Loss to Phili this week and their season is over.
23.49ers - Alex Smith might be coming back this week.
24.Vikings - Tavaris Jackson, enough said.
25.Jets - Reference above, insert Chad Pennington. No arm kills all passing game, including long ball. short outs, or anything to anyone but the TE
26.Bengals - Defense is awful, offense cant carry it. Rudi Johnson has become a non-factor.
27.Saints - Playing very badly, they may have had a turn around game but need to carry it this week.
28.Broncos - Got whupped at home, never a good sign
29.Falcons - Joey Harrington cant be the number 1 guy here, Vick destroyed this team.
30.Bills - Trent Edwards is playing well but Lee Evans isnt getting enough looks and the defense has way to many injuries.
31.Rams - Stephen Jackson, Marc Bulger. They need these guys back to win at least 1 game.
32.Dolphins - I hope the Patriots play their scout team. Already given up on season with the trade for Chris Chambers.
Matchup of the Week, 1) Colts Jags. Jaguars are hot right now and its played in Jacksonville.
2) Battle for their lives, Eagles Bears. Loser is looking to drop teh rest of teh season to get number 1 pick.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
2007 QB categories: Where they stand after Week 6.
Thanks to Jeff C. for putting the initial list together. (Sorry if we pick it apart)
Elite - Play at a level that is incomprehensible to mere mortals in terms of decision making, execution and wins. There is a HUGE gap between these guys and the next best.
Peyton
Brady
Good - Win a lot and/or put up good numbers.
Romo
Palmer
Big Ben
Hasselbeck
Decent - Secure jobs, will win some games, spots of stupidity
Eli Manning
Brett Favre
WTF?- Can’t believe these guys are relevant, either because their teams are winning too many games or their stats are too high... or both.
Derek Anderson
Jeff Garcia
Jon Kitna
Up and coming- Show signs of life, but don't quite put it all together week to week.
Jason Campbell
Vince Young
Matt Shaub
Underachievers - Pretty disappointing week in and week out. Frequently freak out and make horrible decisions. Should be winning more with team around them.
D-Nabb
Drew Brees
Chad Pennington
Steve McNair
Not as good as people want to believe they are - They have good supporting casts but really are not good enough to lead them.
Jay Cutler
Phil Rivers
David Garrard
Basement- These teams need to just hand the ball off.
Damon Huard
Vinny T.
Joey H.
Anomalies - No one really knows who is trotting out there.
Whoever Oakland is bringing to the table
(insert) Miami QB
Arizona job opening
St. Louis QB #?
Buffalo situation
Elite - Play at a level that is incomprehensible to mere mortals in terms of decision making, execution and wins. There is a HUGE gap between these guys and the next best.
Peyton
Brady
Good - Win a lot and/or put up good numbers.
Romo
Palmer
Big Ben
Hasselbeck
Decent - Secure jobs, will win some games, spots of stupidity
Eli Manning
Brett Favre
WTF?- Can’t believe these guys are relevant, either because their teams are winning too many games or their stats are too high... or both.
Derek Anderson
Jeff Garcia
Jon Kitna
Up and coming- Show signs of life, but don't quite put it all together week to week.
Jason Campbell
Vince Young
Matt Shaub
Underachievers - Pretty disappointing week in and week out. Frequently freak out and make horrible decisions. Should be winning more with team around them.
D-Nabb
Drew Brees
Chad Pennington
Steve McNair
Not as good as people want to believe they are - They have good supporting casts but really are not good enough to lead them.
Jay Cutler
Phil Rivers
David Garrard
Basement- These teams need to just hand the ball off.
Damon Huard
Vinny T.
Joey H.
Anomalies - No one really knows who is trotting out there.
Whoever Oakland is bringing to the table
(insert) Miami QB
Arizona job opening
St. Louis QB #?
Buffalo situation
Giants Dline
From what i have watched on the Giants Dline has been very impressive, they have an unbelievable amount of sacks and get pressures constantly. The only issue i can find is that their really big games have come against 2nd string tackles. Now im not saying that they are bad, not even close, but i want to see how good their production will be when they are going up against a good O-line.
That being said the brightest spot in that game last night was Eli's third down conversions, not so much how well he produced but how well they ran that 3rd down play. They could run the same play over and over again and there is no way anyone can stop them. The play I am focusing on is setup with Plax on the outside who runs a 15 yard dig and either slot or TE runs a 7 yard out...plax is always open, no one can stop that play on them because Eli throws a strike and Plaxico is a huge target, it really is their money play and should be used by them at least 10 times a game...which they did last night and got their win.
That being said the brightest spot in that game last night was Eli's third down conversions, not so much how well he produced but how well they ran that 3rd down play. They could run the same play over and over again and there is no way anyone can stop them. The play I am focusing on is setup with Plax on the outside who runs a 15 yard dig and either slot or TE runs a 7 yard out...plax is always open, no one can stop that play on them because Eli throws a strike and Plaxico is a huge target, it really is their money play and should be used by them at least 10 times a game...which they did last night and got their win.
Giants/Falcons Review
The Good:
- Atlanta's last 10 possessions ended in 7 punts, missed field goal, int, turn-over-on-downs. That is what the Giants had to do in the second half.
-Eli to Plax deep. The was a pretty ball.
-Eli on third and medium-to-long, he did a really nice job here using Toomer, Plax and Shockey.
-Offensive line...especially on running plays. It looks like the Giants can insert anyone back there.
-The defensive line tallied 4 sacks total (one was actually from Pierce), but they also had a great push on some key running plays that resulted in tackles for loss.
The Not So Good:
-Eli is still throwing the one or two balls a game into lock-down coverage. On the INT where he was trying to get to Plax over the middle, I counted quadruple coverage. The other INT was just under-thrown, I thought Toomer had a step.
-Jacobs needs to be able to get through a game without injury. Defenders are always going at him low, he needs to prove that won't be an issue throughout his career.
-Speed, throughout the Coughlin and Fassel eras the Giants have had a huge problem tackling speed. Norwood burned the entire team on that run in the first quarter.
Next up: San Fran at home. It was reported earlier that Alex Smith would return to the starting role for this game. I am not sure if that is still the case.
- Atlanta's last 10 possessions ended in 7 punts, missed field goal, int, turn-over-on-downs. That is what the Giants had to do in the second half.
-Eli to Plax deep. The was a pretty ball.
-Eli on third and medium-to-long, he did a really nice job here using Toomer, Plax and Shockey.
-Offensive line...especially on running plays. It looks like the Giants can insert anyone back there.
-The defensive line tallied 4 sacks total (one was actually from Pierce), but they also had a great push on some key running plays that resulted in tackles for loss.
The Not So Good:
-Eli is still throwing the one or two balls a game into lock-down coverage. On the INT where he was trying to get to Plax over the middle, I counted quadruple coverage. The other INT was just under-thrown, I thought Toomer had a step.
-Jacobs needs to be able to get through a game without injury. Defenders are always going at him low, he needs to prove that won't be an issue throughout his career.
-Speed, throughout the Coughlin and Fassel eras the Giants have had a huge problem tackling speed. Norwood burned the entire team on that run in the first quarter.
Next up: San Fran at home. It was reported earlier that Alex Smith would return to the starting role for this game. I am not sure if that is still the case.
Monday, October 15, 2007
FIRST BLOG....G-Men/DirtyBird Preview
Prediction: Giants 30, Atlanta 13 (Current line: Atl +3.5)....Giants to cover is at lock status.
Player of the Game: Defensive End by committee. We are gonna see a ton of movement on the outside, and inside by the big three (Stray, Osi, Tuck...Kiwanuka should be blitzing from everywhere as well).
Giants on D: Atlanta will be trotting out two young, inexperienced tackles, this will force them to play 2TE sets and/or keep the running backs in for extra protection. Big Blue should use this to bring Kiwanuka on almost every play. He has to be a factor behind the line of scrimmage (not a factor by getting torched by Crumpler in pass coverage). Coming into the game Atlanta has given up 18 sacks (T3rd most in NFL). Giants have 17 sacks (T4th most in NFL).
Aaron Ross and Sam Madison have been excellent the past couple of weeks. If they can make Joey get down to his 3rd and 4th reads on consistently ...there is no way Joey makes it out of this game. Aaron Ross looks awesome coming in on those CB blitzes...his hit on D-Nice a couple weeks ago was priceless.
Giants on Offense: Atlanta is underrated up front against the run with Abraham, Grady Jax, and Jamaal Anderson. The Giants still have to pound the ball to set up play action. If they can establish a threat early Eli should tear this team apart, the Dirty birds are already weak at rushing the passer (especially with Kerney gone). Shockey should end up with some favorable matchups due to the play-action, and Plax, who will see a ton of safety help.
Special Teams: The Giants have been terrible all year. Hotlanta ST will assuredly set up an easy TD or Field Goal at some point in this game barring drastic improvement by Blue.
Thoughts?
Coming soon: QB ratings.
Player of the Game: Defensive End by committee. We are gonna see a ton of movement on the outside, and inside by the big three (Stray, Osi, Tuck...Kiwanuka should be blitzing from everywhere as well).
Giants on D: Atlanta will be trotting out two young, inexperienced tackles, this will force them to play 2TE sets and/or keep the running backs in for extra protection. Big Blue should use this to bring Kiwanuka on almost every play. He has to be a factor behind the line of scrimmage (not a factor by getting torched by Crumpler in pass coverage). Coming into the game Atlanta has given up 18 sacks (T3rd most in NFL). Giants have 17 sacks (T4th most in NFL).
Aaron Ross and Sam Madison have been excellent the past couple of weeks. If they can make Joey get down to his 3rd and 4th reads on consistently ...there is no way Joey makes it out of this game. Aaron Ross looks awesome coming in on those CB blitzes...his hit on D-Nice a couple weeks ago was priceless.
Giants on Offense: Atlanta is underrated up front against the run with Abraham, Grady Jax, and Jamaal Anderson. The Giants still have to pound the ball to set up play action. If they can establish a threat early Eli should tear this team apart, the Dirty birds are already weak at rushing the passer (especially with Kerney gone). Shockey should end up with some favorable matchups due to the play-action, and Plax, who will see a ton of safety help.
Special Teams: The Giants have been terrible all year. Hotlanta ST will assuredly set up an easy TD or Field Goal at some point in this game barring drastic improvement by Blue.
Thoughts?
Coming soon: QB ratings.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
