We'll start off strong with Chris Mortensen of ESPN and will have some Jags-Bolts talk with Matt Mosley. It's never early to talk about next season especially if you bleed teal, so let's talk about some potential coaching candidates for next season with Chris Mortensen:
"It's early and even difficult to tell whether there will be many (if any) coaching changes. Cowher is an obvious one, as is Marty Schottenheimer. I don't think Jason Garrett is going anywhere. Jim Mora Jr. could get another shot. Jags defensive coordinator Mike Smith and Miss. State coach Sylvester Croom - who was a very good NFL assistant for 17 years - may get a look, too. That's just off the top of my head."
Don't forget Mike Martz, but now let's get to the games.
-Who would have thought that the Browns would be road favorites in Baltimore, but the Ravens have been funkier than the bathroom after Thanksgiving dinner. I'll look for Cleveland to have another good first half to take the lead, but not blow it against an anemic Baltimore offense that's clumsier than your nosy mother-in-law who likes interfering with everything. Like your in-laws, it's a lose-lose for the Ravens. Cleveland by a healthy margin.
-The Chargers looked awful in their win over the Colts last week, and the Jaguars looked nice in a big win over Tennessee. Matt Mosley talks about the keys to this one:
"I think the Jaguars have spent a lot of time looking to see what the Vikings did against the Chargers. The Vikes are the most one-dimensional team in football, but Adrian Peterson still put up record numbers. I'm baffled by how poorly the Chargers offense is playing. Rivers has regressed even though Norv Turner has such a great reputation for working with quarterbacks. I think this offense will continue to be inconsistent, and that's an indictment of Turner."
Norv may have been indicted and blamed more often than a certain big-headed former SF Giant. But I think that the Jaguars will be able to run it well and control the clock, and ultimately the game against the Chargers.
-I think that the Dolphins will cover a 10 point spread in Philly. John Beck may be the QB, but it took a collapse by Washington for the Eagles to come away with a win, and I expect Miami to keep it close with a big day from Chatman. Phins cover!!
-Why have I liked the Raiders so much? I don't know, but I'm going with them in Daunte Culpepper's return to Minnesota, which has not garnered much publicity because both teams suck. But I think that 'Pepper will be motivated, and Da Raidaz will win over the AP-less Vikes.
-There has to be a reason why the Colts are favored by 2 TD's over a pretty good Chiefs team. Perhaps it's a combination of no Larry Johnson, and a QB desperate to shake off an embarrassing outing (and that QB isn't Brodie Croyle). So I'll go with Indy on this one, because they have to be favored by that much for a reason.
-The Panthers are in the official SOS Doghouse. And they're certainly not coming out of it this week against Favre and the Packers who will be able to control the run and force whatever helpless QB Carolina puts out there. Steve Smith will once again be frustrated, and the Panthers will be at Brett Favre's mercy, like your overweight aunt to mom's pumpkin pie. Green Bay by at least a dozen.
-If the Lions want to make a statement in the NFC, they have to at least give the run a chance or Jon Kitna will be on the ground like your alcoholic cousin who never knows his limits. I think that New York will get to Kitna often and Brandon Jacobs will do well enough for the Giatns to come out of Ford Field with the much needed victory.
-This is a trapper for the Bucs in Atlanta, but I think they'll barely squeeze out of it. Warrick Dunn is always amped against Tampa, but expect the Bucs to do just enough for the win plus the three.
-What New Orleans team will show up? Four straight wins, or the one who couldn't stop the Rams? Since I like Sean Payton, I'll give him the benefit of the doubt and give this pick 'em game to the Brees-Colston connection and New Orleans. But expect a big day from Andre Johnson.
-The Bills' Obi Wan was Marshawn Lynch, and he's probably out for the Patriots game. So unless Brady pulls a Romo/Peyton on Sunday night, the Pats will take this one big, but It'll be close early.
-I like the way the Cardinals played last week against the Lions, and I'm enticed to take them at the Bengals and I will. Though they looked good against Baltimore last week, the Ravens are playing horrible football and I expect Arizona to take it in The Jungle.
-The Steelers are oozing with confidence, and I'll expect a classis Pittsburgh outing with lots of Willie Parker and lots of smiles in the end. PGH over NYJ big.
-I think the Rams are better than the Niners, and I don't even think it's close. That's a statement considering that St Louis was winless before last week. But Frisco has nothing, and the Rams will take the game and cause further insult to a once proud franchise.
-The Redskins are missing key members of their secondary including Sean Taylor, so expect Tony Romo and co to impose their will against Washington especially as the game goes by. Expect Clinton Portis to have a pretty good game, and expect the Skins to try to heave it over the top. But I expect Dallas to pull away late for a double digit win.
-Rexy returns! And so does the losing. Seattle will be up for this one in a playoffs rematch and expect the Seahawks to get the last laugh.
-Denver is never a good place to play at in a prime time game. Expect the Broncos' Selvin Young to be the star rather than former teammate Vince, and watch the Broncos get a big statement win over the Titans.
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Showing posts with label GreenBayPackers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label GreenBayPackers. Show all posts
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
NFL Daily Presents: Analytical Assault Week 10
Oh my, how the mighty have fallen. The great sink to new lows, streaks crumble, and one old geezer QB outlasts it all. And then, there's Baltimore........
Flash Forward
"Somewhere, Mel Brooks is smiling right now."
"If the Patriots are destiny's child, then Miami could be destiny's bastard child."
"Harder to figure out than Hillary Clinton's political views."
"Grab me a mirror, I look so good when I'm right."
-Brett Favre was like a hypnotist on Sunday. Minnesota bit his every fake, were fascinated by his every move. They were so in awe of him that they forgot that they're paid large craploads of cheddar to stop him. But King Cheesehead threw for over 350 and eclipsed the 60,000 yard mark and Dan Marino still pretends not to be jealous. They finally have a running game, while the Vikes still haven't found that QB guy, and will now be without Adrian Peterson for an extended period. When you hit so hard as a player, you're bound to get hurt. Favre completed passes to 10 different players, which is impressive considering that the Vikes barely had 10 completions on offense (16). Green Bay had it for over 40 minutes, and they're heads and shoulders (knees and toes) above Minnesota.
-What happens when you're strength turns into a weakness? You lose. The Titans found that out after their vaunted run defense got trampled by Freddy T and MJD. The Jags had 44 rushes and 23 passes, and controlled the pigskin for over 34 minutes. Vince Young threw 41 times which is a lot for someone who just isn't a good QB right now. You people have to stop being enamored with the "greatness" of VY and realize that he's not a very good passer. And when the overachieving running game went back to earth yesterday, Tennessee's chances were in Young's hands. And unlike State Farm, Young was not there, and he may not ever be there. The defense will have to carry the Titans if they want to reach the postseason. Because oh great Texas savior doesn't have your back.
-Running back reliance is very important in football (unless you're Favre). And when your top back is out, someone needs to step up and carry the load. Selvin Young did that for Denver in place of Travis Henry, Priest Holmes could not do that for an injured Larry Johnson. That was the difference, plain and simple. None of the QB's were very good, but the good offensive player from Texas came through when his team needed it, and Denver is back in the saddle again trying to go straight as piss to the promised land. Somewhere, Mel Brooks is smiling right now. I have now associated him with being a Broncos fan. That has nothing to do with this game, but Denver is definitely in this bad boy.
-If the Dolphins were gonna win a game this season, that might have been it. They owned a 10-2 lead over Buffalo, and everything looked good. But those scrappy Bills came back and won despite Miami having posession of the ball for almost 37 minutes. Jesse Chatman allowed the Phins to control the clock, and they played a very good game. But it looks like they could be a team of destiny. If the Patriots are destiny's child, then Miami could be destiny's bastard child. We'll see if Buffalo can keep this up against the Pats, of course Lynch will have to be back for them to have a chance. Miami will get there...one day.
-The Saints are harder to figure out than Hillary Clinton's political views (are they even there??). They reel off four straight wins and then get beat by a previously winless Rams team. St Louis had perfect run-pass balance and Steven Jackson and Antonio Pittman helped the Rams have ball possession for almost 40 minutes. Marc Bulger managed the game well, and Tory Holt had a very solid outing. New Orleans had an almost 4:1 pass to run ratio and that is clearly unacceptable. Drew Brees were picked off twice and will have to regain their momentum.
-The Steelers haven't hired too many head coaches in their history, and it looks like they've found another really good one in Mike Tomlin. Cleveland got great plays on defense and special teams in the first half, and connected on shots down the field led by Derek Anderson. But It may not be about the way the Browns played yesterday, It's probably about the way Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh defense adjusted in the second half. They closed off all the deep routes and forced Anderson to settle for check downs underneath. This strategy forces three and outs and allowed the Steelers to come back. Then you give the credit to Ben Roethlisberger for leading his team back, and to the Pittsburgh defense for shutting the Browns down in the 2nd half. The Steelers are an elite team, and played an superb 2nd half.
-The Redskins consistently fail to close out games. It's just not in their DNA, and the Eagles took advantage with a 20 point 4th quarter to save their season and reinvigorate a franchise that needed a jump start. Campbell, Thrash, and Portis did a great job of putting their team in a position to win. But Brian Westbrook was tremendous at the end of the game, and Washington helped the Eagle cause by committing more stupid penalties than a dyslexic accountant doing your taxes. It was a huge road win for Philly, as new life has been breathed into their season.
-Grab me a mirror, because I look so good when I'm right. I called the Falcons upset win over the Panthers, because the Panthers have fallen off the face of the earth. I wonder if Stephen Hawking ever looks at himself in the mirror and robotically types to himself "who's....the...man?" Well that's me right now without the science and with much more normal. Vinny Testaverde finally played like his age, and the running game was basically a nonfactor. Did you know that Vinny was college roommates with Thomas Jefferson? Atlanta didn't make any mistakes, and had a big drive late that ended with Joey Harrington coming through with a huge TD to Alge Crumpler. The last time Harrington and big drive late were said in the same sentence was Joey's tee shot on the 16th hole last winter. But I digress, good Falcons win, Panthers are underachieving more than the NYC Public School System.
-How pathetic are the Ravens? 6 turnovers again, and a loss to the Bengals who can barely get out of their own way. In fact, to make the players more comfortable with their surroundings, the coaches are now referred to as wardens, and locker rooms are holding cells. Steve McNair has hit the end of the road. He's fumbling more than Tiki Barber and Kerry Collins used to combined, and he isn't making good football decisions anymore. The defense can only do so much, I'm with Ray Lewis on this one. Brian Billick is once again under fire. Cincy scored their 21 points on 7 field goals. It's almost like they're allergic to the end zone, much like the Knicks who are allergic to making sense. I mean they break out in good decisions and wins, I mean who in their right mind would want that? Bottom line, both teams are awful but the Bengals are less terrible. The Ravens have some serious changing to do before they can show up on a consistent basis again.
-Rex to the rescue? It's been a wild ride for the Bears QB, but he came in for an injured Brian Griese and saved the Chicago season with a big win over Oakland. If Rex is actually successful getting the snap, he has the arm to hit the deep play and did so with Bernard Berrian. Josh McCown was brutal as usual, but Justin Fargas had a very solid day, but Chicago had that one quarter that saved their season (for now). We'll see if they can keep their momentum going.
-All the Cowboys had to do to beat the Giants and take a stranglehold of the NFC East was to stop making the critical mistakes. They made numerous penalties in the first half including just an insanely stupid taunting penalty. But the Giants evened it out with mistakes of their own, and the Cowboy talent prevailed late, as Tony Romo and Terrell Owens provided the fireworks in the win. What the Giants can't do is let this loss snowball, because they're still one of the best teams in the conference. They have a huge game at Detroit and need to be ready.
-Speaking of the Lions, I was shocked at the way them and the Cards played on Sunday. There were 9 combined turnovers, but Kurt Warner bounced back with a tremendous game, and they were able to control the clock for the win. The Arizona defense had 4 sacks and force a bunch of fumbles for the win. But the Lions rushed for negative 18 yards, and completely gave up on it. To win in this league, you have to be able to run the ball and the Lions won't be able to take it to the next level if they can't run the ball. Jon Kitna isn't mobile, and the defense can just go right after him if there's no remote threat of a running play. This was a terrible job by Detroit, and they have to regroup fast.
-We all know Peyton Manning had the worst game of his life, but they had a good chance to win because the Chargers defense was almost as dreadful. Darren Sproles and Antonio Cromartie were the main reasons that San Diego came up with the win, because Phil Rivers is just not a good QB this year. The Colts didn't deserve to win the game, but they came very close. But the Chargers offense needs to get into gear otherwise there's no way they can make the postseason. Maybe the AFC isn't as deep as we once thought. These were two of the best? Oy.
-I think Gardner-Webb could beat the 49ers in football. Alex Smith is terrible, but I put a lot of blame on Mike Nolan for not giving it to Frank Gore so much. He had 13 carries for 5.5 per rush, so why not give it to him more if your QB blows. The Seahawks were able to dominate with Alexander and Branch out, which shows how bad the Niners are.
Flash Forward
"Somewhere, Mel Brooks is smiling right now."
"If the Patriots are destiny's child, then Miami could be destiny's bastard child."
"Harder to figure out than Hillary Clinton's political views."
"Grab me a mirror, I look so good when I'm right."
-Brett Favre was like a hypnotist on Sunday. Minnesota bit his every fake, were fascinated by his every move. They were so in awe of him that they forgot that they're paid large craploads of cheddar to stop him. But King Cheesehead threw for over 350 and eclipsed the 60,000 yard mark and Dan Marino still pretends not to be jealous. They finally have a running game, while the Vikes still haven't found that QB guy, and will now be without Adrian Peterson for an extended period. When you hit so hard as a player, you're bound to get hurt. Favre completed passes to 10 different players, which is impressive considering that the Vikes barely had 10 completions on offense (16). Green Bay had it for over 40 minutes, and they're heads and shoulders (knees and toes) above Minnesota.
-What happens when you're strength turns into a weakness? You lose. The Titans found that out after their vaunted run defense got trampled by Freddy T and MJD. The Jags had 44 rushes and 23 passes, and controlled the pigskin for over 34 minutes. Vince Young threw 41 times which is a lot for someone who just isn't a good QB right now. You people have to stop being enamored with the "greatness" of VY and realize that he's not a very good passer. And when the overachieving running game went back to earth yesterday, Tennessee's chances were in Young's hands. And unlike State Farm, Young was not there, and he may not ever be there. The defense will have to carry the Titans if they want to reach the postseason. Because oh great Texas savior doesn't have your back.
-Running back reliance is very important in football (unless you're Favre). And when your top back is out, someone needs to step up and carry the load. Selvin Young did that for Denver in place of Travis Henry, Priest Holmes could not do that for an injured Larry Johnson. That was the difference, plain and simple. None of the QB's were very good, but the good offensive player from Texas came through when his team needed it, and Denver is back in the saddle again trying to go straight as piss to the promised land. Somewhere, Mel Brooks is smiling right now. I have now associated him with being a Broncos fan. That has nothing to do with this game, but Denver is definitely in this bad boy.
-If the Dolphins were gonna win a game this season, that might have been it. They owned a 10-2 lead over Buffalo, and everything looked good. But those scrappy Bills came back and won despite Miami having posession of the ball for almost 37 minutes. Jesse Chatman allowed the Phins to control the clock, and they played a very good game. But it looks like they could be a team of destiny. If the Patriots are destiny's child, then Miami could be destiny's bastard child. We'll see if Buffalo can keep this up against the Pats, of course Lynch will have to be back for them to have a chance. Miami will get there...one day.
-The Saints are harder to figure out than Hillary Clinton's political views (are they even there??). They reel off four straight wins and then get beat by a previously winless Rams team. St Louis had perfect run-pass balance and Steven Jackson and Antonio Pittman helped the Rams have ball possession for almost 40 minutes. Marc Bulger managed the game well, and Tory Holt had a very solid outing. New Orleans had an almost 4:1 pass to run ratio and that is clearly unacceptable. Drew Brees were picked off twice and will have to regain their momentum.
-The Steelers haven't hired too many head coaches in their history, and it looks like they've found another really good one in Mike Tomlin. Cleveland got great plays on defense and special teams in the first half, and connected on shots down the field led by Derek Anderson. But It may not be about the way the Browns played yesterday, It's probably about the way Mike Tomlin and the Pittsburgh defense adjusted in the second half. They closed off all the deep routes and forced Anderson to settle for check downs underneath. This strategy forces three and outs and allowed the Steelers to come back. Then you give the credit to Ben Roethlisberger for leading his team back, and to the Pittsburgh defense for shutting the Browns down in the 2nd half. The Steelers are an elite team, and played an superb 2nd half.
-The Redskins consistently fail to close out games. It's just not in their DNA, and the Eagles took advantage with a 20 point 4th quarter to save their season and reinvigorate a franchise that needed a jump start. Campbell, Thrash, and Portis did a great job of putting their team in a position to win. But Brian Westbrook was tremendous at the end of the game, and Washington helped the Eagle cause by committing more stupid penalties than a dyslexic accountant doing your taxes. It was a huge road win for Philly, as new life has been breathed into their season.
-Grab me a mirror, because I look so good when I'm right. I called the Falcons upset win over the Panthers, because the Panthers have fallen off the face of the earth. I wonder if Stephen Hawking ever looks at himself in the mirror and robotically types to himself "who's....the...man?" Well that's me right now without the science and with much more normal. Vinny Testaverde finally played like his age, and the running game was basically a nonfactor. Did you know that Vinny was college roommates with Thomas Jefferson? Atlanta didn't make any mistakes, and had a big drive late that ended with Joey Harrington coming through with a huge TD to Alge Crumpler. The last time Harrington and big drive late were said in the same sentence was Joey's tee shot on the 16th hole last winter. But I digress, good Falcons win, Panthers are underachieving more than the NYC Public School System.
-How pathetic are the Ravens? 6 turnovers again, and a loss to the Bengals who can barely get out of their own way. In fact, to make the players more comfortable with their surroundings, the coaches are now referred to as wardens, and locker rooms are holding cells. Steve McNair has hit the end of the road. He's fumbling more than Tiki Barber and Kerry Collins used to combined, and he isn't making good football decisions anymore. The defense can only do so much, I'm with Ray Lewis on this one. Brian Billick is once again under fire. Cincy scored their 21 points on 7 field goals. It's almost like they're allergic to the end zone, much like the Knicks who are allergic to making sense. I mean they break out in good decisions and wins, I mean who in their right mind would want that? Bottom line, both teams are awful but the Bengals are less terrible. The Ravens have some serious changing to do before they can show up on a consistent basis again.
-Rex to the rescue? It's been a wild ride for the Bears QB, but he came in for an injured Brian Griese and saved the Chicago season with a big win over Oakland. If Rex is actually successful getting the snap, he has the arm to hit the deep play and did so with Bernard Berrian. Josh McCown was brutal as usual, but Justin Fargas had a very solid day, but Chicago had that one quarter that saved their season (for now). We'll see if they can keep their momentum going.
-All the Cowboys had to do to beat the Giants and take a stranglehold of the NFC East was to stop making the critical mistakes. They made numerous penalties in the first half including just an insanely stupid taunting penalty. But the Giants evened it out with mistakes of their own, and the Cowboy talent prevailed late, as Tony Romo and Terrell Owens provided the fireworks in the win. What the Giants can't do is let this loss snowball, because they're still one of the best teams in the conference. They have a huge game at Detroit and need to be ready.
-Speaking of the Lions, I was shocked at the way them and the Cards played on Sunday. There were 9 combined turnovers, but Kurt Warner bounced back with a tremendous game, and they were able to control the clock for the win. The Arizona defense had 4 sacks and force a bunch of fumbles for the win. But the Lions rushed for negative 18 yards, and completely gave up on it. To win in this league, you have to be able to run the ball and the Lions won't be able to take it to the next level if they can't run the ball. Jon Kitna isn't mobile, and the defense can just go right after him if there's no remote threat of a running play. This was a terrible job by Detroit, and they have to regroup fast.
-We all know Peyton Manning had the worst game of his life, but they had a good chance to win because the Chargers defense was almost as dreadful. Darren Sproles and Antonio Cromartie were the main reasons that San Diego came up with the win, because Phil Rivers is just not a good QB this year. The Colts didn't deserve to win the game, but they came very close. But the Chargers offense needs to get into gear otherwise there's no way they can make the postseason. Maybe the AFC isn't as deep as we once thought. These were two of the best? Oy.
-I think Gardner-Webb could beat the 49ers in football. Alex Smith is terrible, but I put a lot of blame on Mike Nolan for not giving it to Frank Gore so much. He had 13 carries for 5.5 per rush, so why not give it to him more if your QB blows. The Seahawks were able to dominate with Alexander and Branch out, which shows how bad the Niners are.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
NFL Daily Presents: Analytical Assault Week 9
Flying solo like Jets wins, this is SOS AKA the Assault Man giving you the week's best, worst, and Ravens.
Flash Forward
"The Transexual Circus"
"millions of doses of Paxil and Zoloft are being sent to the Cincnatti area"
"and I don't mean that in a Manny Ramirez or a Dennis Kucinich way"
"does Norv wake up in the morning and try to be a moron?"
"like A-Rod rips up contracts"
-Goreless, the 49ers are a terrible team. They had a college QB at RB, and Michael Robinson could have played better than Alex Smith on Sunday. The lack of a rushing attack forced the regressing Alex Smith to throw a whopping 38 times with 3 picks, and was so bad that he made Joey Harrington look like Bart Starr. Warrick Dunn was the difference in this one, as was four Frisco turnovers that made it easy for Atlanta to win, which is of course vital in any rare Falcons victory. Usually two teams that can't score under the big top would be called The Transexual Circus, in the ATL, they call it football. I never thought I'd say this, but stick to the Hawks.
-The Bills are headed up, and the Bengals are headed for a large decline. Cincy ran the ball 17 times for 28 yards, and Chad Johnson was carted off the field. Sucks to be y'all. Carson Palmer is amazing, but he can't do it all himself. But a good running game and playing with effort opens things up. Promising tailback Marshawn Lynch ran for a buck fifty three and a TD and threw for a score. That opened it up for JP Losman to lob it deep for Lee Evans, who looked great. Big ups for Dick Jauron, who has this team competing for a postseason berth and is revitalizing the Wing City. Meanwhile, rumor has it that millions of doses of Paxil and Zoloft are being sent to the Cincinatti area, and Marvin Lewis is spending a lot of time on Monster and CareerBuilder.
-It was just one of those days for the Broncos, when your QB gets hurt and you're team gets dominated in every facet of the game. You get beat to the tune of 44-7. Mike Martz will be the coach in Cincy next season, and Rod Marinelli should be a legit Coach of the Year candidate. I won't go much further in ridiculing Denver, they're just a rebuilding project this year. Four turnovers against a top notch O always spells trouble.
-Dare I say the Tennessee Titans have the best defense in the National Football League. And I'm beginning to appreciate what Jake Delhomme meant to this Carolina team, because not only is David Carr playing like rat feces, Steve Smith had 3 catches for 15 yards! Inexcusable! Just throw it deep and let him catches, he needs the ball in his hands by any means necessary. Vince Young has definitely regressed this year, but his defense is so good that they don't need his theatrics to win. LenDale White had a good game, but the Panthers aren't playing competetive football right now.
-Brett Favre is special, and I don't mean that in a Manny Ramirez or a Dennis Kucinich way. he threw another game winning bomb to Greg Jennings, and then a pick six thrown by Damon Huard sealed the deal. Green Bay is 7-1 without a running game, that to me is amazing. And the Chiefs played well, they just happened to have been witnessing greatness. They were just in awe like the Pistons were at LeBron in last year's east finals. Let the ride continue for Green Bay, it puts a smile on everyone's faces.
-Norv Turner had to game plan for one person, and failed at a historically miserable rate. I wonder what went on at meetings.....
"Well the Vikings have no QB or receivers, so I guess we should stop their running back. Oh wait, wouldn't that make sense, maybe we should just act like idiots and not focus on Adrian Peterson even though he's the only talented player they have on offense. God, I'm brilliant!"
I mean, does Norv wake up in the morning and try to be a moron? If Peterson is running it 30 times at almost 10 yards a carry, you do whatever it takes to stop him. Put 11 guys in the box for God's sake. Considering the starting QB left the game after 12 throws, I wonder what they were gonna do. Phil Rivers is not a good QB when he throws it more than 30 times, he trew it 42 times, the Bolts lost by 18. LT couldn't get going, but AP made up for his production. Too bad Peterson's talent is being wasted this season.
-Someone has lit a fire under Drew Brees' behind, because he's playing unbelievable right now. The Jaguars defense is tough and physical, but Brees tore it up like A-Rod rips up contracts. 35/49 for 445 and 3 TD's? That looks like VooDoo stats to me. Bush and Colston were great, and soap opera superstar Quinn Gray had to throw 33 times, which will always result in a loss. But can the Saints keep up this streak, and can J-Ville get it together in their quest for a WC spot?
-For the great team people say the Redskins have, they certainly don't blow bad teams out. But give credit to them for sticking to their game plan despite being down 17-3. Portis was excellent to offset the mediocre Jason Campbell, and Shaun Suisham knocked five field goals through including the OT winner. But Kellen Clemens and the Jets played well, and they probably would have won if not for some dropped passes in crunch time. But the Jets are tanking while looking competetive, which is certainly the way to go when you sport a 1-7 record. Props to them on that one. The slate gets tough for Washington, and they gotta pick up their play.
-The Bucs may not make it look pretty, but Jon Gruden gets his team ready, and Tampa is getting it done and they hold a division lead right now. They've been riding Earnest Graham recently, and he rushed for 124 and Jeff Garcia guided them to an amazing 12-21 on third downs. Kurt Warner was 10/30, which may be the worst QB performance of the season. That includes some Tarvaris and Harrington games. Rumor has it that to make fun of Warner, his wife Brenda practiced with the team, closed her eyes and completed 11 of 30. This of course if just a rumor. But it's either Warner, Tim Rattay, or they'll bring in Denny Green to throw passes. It could be a long rest of the year for the Cards if they have QB play like that.
-I have underestimated the Cleveland Browns. They could have felt bad for themselves in Seattle when they were down 21-6 in the 2nd quarter, but Coach of the Year candidate Romeo Crennel must have said something, because Cleveland came out playing passionate football and Jamal Lewis ran for 3 of his 4 TD's in the 2nd half to force OT and get the win. Derek Anderson is emerging as a top 10 QB, and Kellen Winslow was the main target. In an unbelievably easy NFC West, the Seahawks could have gotten bigtime separartion but failed. Who'd have thunk that the Browns would be in a position to claim a playoff spot? Put your hand down!
-The Colts had the Patriots on the ropes, but it seemes like their defense wore down late and New England gained control of the line of scrimmage and got two quick TD's to escape with the win. Each team had a player that impressed. Joseph Addai was rediculous in the first half, but Randy Moss was the star of the show in the 4th quarter. The Pats came through in crunch time, but a potential playoff game in New England is very winnable for Indy if they can pound it with Addai. It's like the Colts are the old Pats and the Pats are the old Colts. How weird is that?
-Rising from the depths of the earth to the Black Hole, the unlikely dynamic duo of Sage Rosenfels and Ron Dayne led the Texans to a huge first half, and they held off the Raiders in the 4th. If you're an Oakland fan and got beat by those two, hang your head in shame and/or go into hiding for 48 hours. Josh McCown made people screaming for any of their old QB's which includes Daunte Culpepper, Andrew Walter, Kerry Collins, Aaron Brooks, and Billy Beane. Well, maybe I made up that last one. Justin Fargas was good, but Ron and Sage were too much. Ron and Sage, gotta love that combo.
-In the 4th quarter at the Linc, it seemed like there were more people watching in my den (me) than there were in all of Philly. The Cowboys just straight up dominated then, and T.O. must have been higher than if he would have spent a week with the Williamses Ricky and Montell. Romo was really good, and Dallas gets a big confidence boost going to the Meadowlands.
-No Baltimore, this isn't a nightmare. Nobody will wake you up and tell you that everything is fine. As Shaq would likely say, the Ravens played horriawful. They turned it over, giving Big Ben a short field to work with to pick apart B'More's depleted secondary. Roehtlisberger threw it 16 times and had 5 TD's. James Harrison had a dream game, and the Steelers won big on their legends/throwback night. And Brian Billick's seat is once again warm.
Flash Forward
"The Transexual Circus"
"millions of doses of Paxil and Zoloft are being sent to the Cincnatti area"
"and I don't mean that in a Manny Ramirez or a Dennis Kucinich way"
"does Norv wake up in the morning and try to be a moron?"
"like A-Rod rips up contracts"
-Goreless, the 49ers are a terrible team. They had a college QB at RB, and Michael Robinson could have played better than Alex Smith on Sunday. The lack of a rushing attack forced the regressing Alex Smith to throw a whopping 38 times with 3 picks, and was so bad that he made Joey Harrington look like Bart Starr. Warrick Dunn was the difference in this one, as was four Frisco turnovers that made it easy for Atlanta to win, which is of course vital in any rare Falcons victory. Usually two teams that can't score under the big top would be called The Transexual Circus, in the ATL, they call it football. I never thought I'd say this, but stick to the Hawks.
-The Bills are headed up, and the Bengals are headed for a large decline. Cincy ran the ball 17 times for 28 yards, and Chad Johnson was carted off the field. Sucks to be y'all. Carson Palmer is amazing, but he can't do it all himself. But a good running game and playing with effort opens things up. Promising tailback Marshawn Lynch ran for a buck fifty three and a TD and threw for a score. That opened it up for JP Losman to lob it deep for Lee Evans, who looked great. Big ups for Dick Jauron, who has this team competing for a postseason berth and is revitalizing the Wing City. Meanwhile, rumor has it that millions of doses of Paxil and Zoloft are being sent to the Cincinatti area, and Marvin Lewis is spending a lot of time on Monster and CareerBuilder.
-It was just one of those days for the Broncos, when your QB gets hurt and you're team gets dominated in every facet of the game. You get beat to the tune of 44-7. Mike Martz will be the coach in Cincy next season, and Rod Marinelli should be a legit Coach of the Year candidate. I won't go much further in ridiculing Denver, they're just a rebuilding project this year. Four turnovers against a top notch O always spells trouble.
-Dare I say the Tennessee Titans have the best defense in the National Football League. And I'm beginning to appreciate what Jake Delhomme meant to this Carolina team, because not only is David Carr playing like rat feces, Steve Smith had 3 catches for 15 yards! Inexcusable! Just throw it deep and let him catches, he needs the ball in his hands by any means necessary. Vince Young has definitely regressed this year, but his defense is so good that they don't need his theatrics to win. LenDale White had a good game, but the Panthers aren't playing competetive football right now.
-Brett Favre is special, and I don't mean that in a Manny Ramirez or a Dennis Kucinich way. he threw another game winning bomb to Greg Jennings, and then a pick six thrown by Damon Huard sealed the deal. Green Bay is 7-1 without a running game, that to me is amazing. And the Chiefs played well, they just happened to have been witnessing greatness. They were just in awe like the Pistons were at LeBron in last year's east finals. Let the ride continue for Green Bay, it puts a smile on everyone's faces.
-Norv Turner had to game plan for one person, and failed at a historically miserable rate. I wonder what went on at meetings.....
"Well the Vikings have no QB or receivers, so I guess we should stop their running back. Oh wait, wouldn't that make sense, maybe we should just act like idiots and not focus on Adrian Peterson even though he's the only talented player they have on offense. God, I'm brilliant!"
I mean, does Norv wake up in the morning and try to be a moron? If Peterson is running it 30 times at almost 10 yards a carry, you do whatever it takes to stop him. Put 11 guys in the box for God's sake. Considering the starting QB left the game after 12 throws, I wonder what they were gonna do. Phil Rivers is not a good QB when he throws it more than 30 times, he trew it 42 times, the Bolts lost by 18. LT couldn't get going, but AP made up for his production. Too bad Peterson's talent is being wasted this season.
-Someone has lit a fire under Drew Brees' behind, because he's playing unbelievable right now. The Jaguars defense is tough and physical, but Brees tore it up like A-Rod rips up contracts. 35/49 for 445 and 3 TD's? That looks like VooDoo stats to me. Bush and Colston were great, and soap opera superstar Quinn Gray had to throw 33 times, which will always result in a loss. But can the Saints keep up this streak, and can J-Ville get it together in their quest for a WC spot?
-For the great team people say the Redskins have, they certainly don't blow bad teams out. But give credit to them for sticking to their game plan despite being down 17-3. Portis was excellent to offset the mediocre Jason Campbell, and Shaun Suisham knocked five field goals through including the OT winner. But Kellen Clemens and the Jets played well, and they probably would have won if not for some dropped passes in crunch time. But the Jets are tanking while looking competetive, which is certainly the way to go when you sport a 1-7 record. Props to them on that one. The slate gets tough for Washington, and they gotta pick up their play.
-The Bucs may not make it look pretty, but Jon Gruden gets his team ready, and Tampa is getting it done and they hold a division lead right now. They've been riding Earnest Graham recently, and he rushed for 124 and Jeff Garcia guided them to an amazing 12-21 on third downs. Kurt Warner was 10/30, which may be the worst QB performance of the season. That includes some Tarvaris and Harrington games. Rumor has it that to make fun of Warner, his wife Brenda practiced with the team, closed her eyes and completed 11 of 30. This of course if just a rumor. But it's either Warner, Tim Rattay, or they'll bring in Denny Green to throw passes. It could be a long rest of the year for the Cards if they have QB play like that.
-I have underestimated the Cleveland Browns. They could have felt bad for themselves in Seattle when they were down 21-6 in the 2nd quarter, but Coach of the Year candidate Romeo Crennel must have said something, because Cleveland came out playing passionate football and Jamal Lewis ran for 3 of his 4 TD's in the 2nd half to force OT and get the win. Derek Anderson is emerging as a top 10 QB, and Kellen Winslow was the main target. In an unbelievably easy NFC West, the Seahawks could have gotten bigtime separartion but failed. Who'd have thunk that the Browns would be in a position to claim a playoff spot? Put your hand down!
-The Colts had the Patriots on the ropes, but it seemes like their defense wore down late and New England gained control of the line of scrimmage and got two quick TD's to escape with the win. Each team had a player that impressed. Joseph Addai was rediculous in the first half, but Randy Moss was the star of the show in the 4th quarter. The Pats came through in crunch time, but a potential playoff game in New England is very winnable for Indy if they can pound it with Addai. It's like the Colts are the old Pats and the Pats are the old Colts. How weird is that?
-Rising from the depths of the earth to the Black Hole, the unlikely dynamic duo of Sage Rosenfels and Ron Dayne led the Texans to a huge first half, and they held off the Raiders in the 4th. If you're an Oakland fan and got beat by those two, hang your head in shame and/or go into hiding for 48 hours. Josh McCown made people screaming for any of their old QB's which includes Daunte Culpepper, Andrew Walter, Kerry Collins, Aaron Brooks, and Billy Beane. Well, maybe I made up that last one. Justin Fargas was good, but Ron and Sage were too much. Ron and Sage, gotta love that combo.
-In the 4th quarter at the Linc, it seemed like there were more people watching in my den (me) than there were in all of Philly. The Cowboys just straight up dominated then, and T.O. must have been higher than if he would have spent a week with the Williamses Ricky and Montell. Romo was really good, and Dallas gets a big confidence boost going to the Meadowlands.
-No Baltimore, this isn't a nightmare. Nobody will wake you up and tell you that everything is fine. As Shaq would likely say, the Ravens played horriawful. They turned it over, giving Big Ben a short field to work with to pick apart B'More's depleted secondary. Roehtlisberger threw it 16 times and had 5 TD's. James Harrison had a dream game, and the Steelers won big on their legends/throwback night. And Brian Billick's seat is once again warm.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
NFL Daily Presents: Week 9 ATS
All the great picks and analysis with The Football Scientist KC Joyner and Ken Moll and Matt Williamson from Scouts' INC.
-Detroit-Denver is a really interesting one right off the bat. The Broncos played well last week, but got heartbroken by the Packers. How will they respond? I'm gonna side with the Lions and Jon Kitna at home, and I'll put my money on Kevin Jones having a really good game against a weak Denver run d.
-Who do i trust more, the Falcons or those Phishing sites? I mean, I might believe some fake person pretending to be a diamond trader in Burkina-Faso more than Atlanta. I think that Alex Smith and Vernon Davis are back at full strength and I'll take the Niners in an upset.
-Buffalo is on the rise, the Bengals are in decline. It will be closer with Just Pathetic Losman at the helm for the Bills, Cincy is on such a downward spiral that I'll go with Marshawn Lynch and Buffalo.
-The Titans defense will be primed and ready against a Carolina team with David Carr at QB. The Panthers must get Steve Smith the ball if they want to win; he had a grand total of two catches in a loss last week, and they'll be toast once again in a hostile environment if that is once again the case. I think that Vince Young will have to play a bigger role this week, because LenDale White won't be studly forever. I'll take Tennessee by five plus.
-Packers-Chiefs. Favre and Larry Johnson. What's gonna happen, Ken Moll?
"The K.C. defense has played better in the past few weeks but Favre will get his yards. They need to make sure that the Packers don't have an effective ground attack as they did vs. the Broncos. The Pakcers will crowd the LOS and over play LJ and this should open up the passing game for K.C."
A major reason why Green Bay won last week is that Ryan Grant kept the defense honest with a really good game, which enabled Favre to go deep over the top for the win. The Pack will definitely key on Johnson on the defensive side, which could open things up for Tony Gonzalez and Dwayne Bowe. That being said, I'll take the Pack riding the momentum wave.
-The Vikings lack of QB play will once again doom them against the Chargers. San Diego could put nine men in the box against AP and still shut them down. Can the Minnesota slow LaDanian Tomlinson down, and force Phillip Rivers to throw more than he should? This has blowout written ALL over it.
-Saints-Jaguars is a great battle of two opposing units. The New Orleans offense is finally hitting its stride, and Jacksonville's defense is always supertough. If THE GAME ends up being a blowout, this could be the best of the weekend. I'll take the Jags D in a close one.
-The Scientist has arrived! What is KC Joyner's lock of the week?
"Skins over Jets in a blowout. Jets can't stop the run, can't stop the pass and Clemens looked positively mediocre last week. Skins will bounce back in a big way and dominate this game."
-Arizona usually plays a team like Tampa Bay tough, but I think that Gruden gets the Bucs up for this one, and they'll cover against the Cards.
-The Browns and Seahawks is also one of those overlooked games in a great matchup week. Matt Williamson has the keys to this one:
"I think Seattle will come out throwing from multiple WR sets much more so than they have in the past this season. Can Cleveland get to Hasslebeck at ALL? Can the DBs keep up?"
I also think that Alexander will have a good game, and Marcus Trufant could do a really good job against Braylon Edwards. How will the Browns respond in a big game when they're favored. I say they'll wilt, gimme the Hawks.
-I'm sure you've heard analysis from everyone in the world about Pats-Colts, but I'll make it really Miss Teen South Carolina simple: Until someone is able to slow New England down, they won't lose, and I don't think it'll be the Colts. Pats between 10-20 points.
-I'll take the Raiders to win plus a field goal against a down Texans team.
-Does the NFC East really go through Philly? If so, then give Dallas the division crown and the three points.
-Great MNF rivalry match. The Ravens and Steelers always play really close, and though PGH may win, they won't cover a TD plus.
-Detroit-Denver is a really interesting one right off the bat. The Broncos played well last week, but got heartbroken by the Packers. How will they respond? I'm gonna side with the Lions and Jon Kitna at home, and I'll put my money on Kevin Jones having a really good game against a weak Denver run d.
-Who do i trust more, the Falcons or those Phishing sites? I mean, I might believe some fake person pretending to be a diamond trader in Burkina-Faso more than Atlanta. I think that Alex Smith and Vernon Davis are back at full strength and I'll take the Niners in an upset.
-Buffalo is on the rise, the Bengals are in decline. It will be closer with Just Pathetic Losman at the helm for the Bills, Cincy is on such a downward spiral that I'll go with Marshawn Lynch and Buffalo.
-The Titans defense will be primed and ready against a Carolina team with David Carr at QB. The Panthers must get Steve Smith the ball if they want to win; he had a grand total of two catches in a loss last week, and they'll be toast once again in a hostile environment if that is once again the case. I think that Vince Young will have to play a bigger role this week, because LenDale White won't be studly forever. I'll take Tennessee by five plus.
-Packers-Chiefs. Favre and Larry Johnson. What's gonna happen, Ken Moll?
"The K.C. defense has played better in the past few weeks but Favre will get his yards. They need to make sure that the Packers don't have an effective ground attack as they did vs. the Broncos. The Pakcers will crowd the LOS and over play LJ and this should open up the passing game for K.C."
A major reason why Green Bay won last week is that Ryan Grant kept the defense honest with a really good game, which enabled Favre to go deep over the top for the win. The Pack will definitely key on Johnson on the defensive side, which could open things up for Tony Gonzalez and Dwayne Bowe. That being said, I'll take the Pack riding the momentum wave.
-The Vikings lack of QB play will once again doom them against the Chargers. San Diego could put nine men in the box against AP and still shut them down. Can the Minnesota slow LaDanian Tomlinson down, and force Phillip Rivers to throw more than he should? This has blowout written ALL over it.
-Saints-Jaguars is a great battle of two opposing units. The New Orleans offense is finally hitting its stride, and Jacksonville's defense is always supertough. If THE GAME ends up being a blowout, this could be the best of the weekend. I'll take the Jags D in a close one.
-The Scientist has arrived! What is KC Joyner's lock of the week?
"Skins over Jets in a blowout. Jets can't stop the run, can't stop the pass and Clemens looked positively mediocre last week. Skins will bounce back in a big way and dominate this game."
-Arizona usually plays a team like Tampa Bay tough, but I think that Gruden gets the Bucs up for this one, and they'll cover against the Cards.
-The Browns and Seahawks is also one of those overlooked games in a great matchup week. Matt Williamson has the keys to this one:
"I think Seattle will come out throwing from multiple WR sets much more so than they have in the past this season. Can Cleveland get to Hasslebeck at ALL? Can the DBs keep up?"
I also think that Alexander will have a good game, and Marcus Trufant could do a really good job against Braylon Edwards. How will the Browns respond in a big game when they're favored. I say they'll wilt, gimme the Hawks.
-I'm sure you've heard analysis from everyone in the world about Pats-Colts, but I'll make it really Miss Teen South Carolina simple: Until someone is able to slow New England down, they won't lose, and I don't think it'll be the Colts. Pats between 10-20 points.
-I'll take the Raiders to win plus a field goal against a down Texans team.
-Does the NFC East really go through Philly? If so, then give Dallas the division crown and the three points.
-Great MNF rivalry match. The Ravens and Steelers always play really close, and though PGH may win, they won't cover a TD plus.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
NFL Daily Presents: Analytical Assault Week 8
Last week was a pretty boring week, but it gives us things to look forward to. Like that big game on Sunday in Indy, for instance. Gregg Easterbrook and Chris Mortensen share some insight today, as I proceed to brutally assault you. Trick or treat? Why not both!
Flash Forward
"it's like playing the Bachelor game with three fat and ugly chicks"
"It's so simple, that even Miss Teen South Carolina could understand"
"Those gray pants make them look slow"
"I swear Quinn Gray is the perfect soap opera name"
"No recount here"
"suicide watch week in the greater Denver area"
-Lions and 5-2? Usually I'd be called drunk, retarded, or maybe dyslexic. But Brian Griese critical errors allowed Detroit to win despite playing a fairly average game. They did hold the ball for almost 35 minutes, but Griese was picked off three times in the end zone! Kitna was efficient and Kevin Jones ran the ball well, two things that cannot be said for Chicago's "skill" players. Are we ready for the Kyle Orton era? With the QB's in the Windy City, it's like playing the Bachelor game show with three fat and ugly chicks. You lose no matter who you choose. At 3-5, the Bears are continuing the trend of Super Bowl losers doing poorly the next season.
-The Bengals are toast, as is Marvin Lewis. They play in a competetive division, and this is a game they had to have. The key to success for the Steelers is controlling the clock and limiting Big Ben's throws. 32 minutes of ball control, check. 26 throws for Roethlisberger, check. Win, check. It's so simple, that even Miss Teen South Carolina could understand. Parker had a very good game, Ward and Holmes were excellent, and Carson Palmer and co just didn't have enough. Kenny Watson was good, but their run defense sucks it long and hard (Trebeck). The Steelers are legit, folks.
-It was a good, defensive battle but the Titans run D turned out to be the difference. They held Oakland to 3.4 yards a carry, and forced Daunte Culpepper to win the game, which he cannot do anymore. Vince Young only threw 14 times, but Tennessee ran it 36 times at 5.3 yards a clip and earned the victory. By no means are the Titans elite on offense, but their defense could carry them a long way. Jeff Fisher really knows how to get the most out of a football team.
-At least the Rams looked competetive on Sunday, and Cleveland looked good persevering and coming back from a 14-0 defecit. Steven Jackson was a huge spark for St Louis, but he got injured and they pretty much lost it after that. The passing offense was finally clicking for the Rams, but their defense has to get back up to speed. Cleveland committed 14 penalties, but Anderson to Edwards sounds pretty good; music to the Dawg Pounds' ears. Cleveland is in the playoff picture.
-That London game was awful, but the Giants got a win out of it. The passing stats may have been the worst I've ever seen, but Brandon Jacobs ran well, and New York capitalized off of turnovers. If Miami had a few more breaks, they would have come up with that one. Jesse Chatman looks like a keeper, but are the Giants for real at 6-2? Gregg Easterbrook has the answer, treat!
"I am not sold on the Giants. Among other things, those gray pants make them look slow."
Trick! Not only does TMQ diss their NFC hopes, he ranks on their fashion sense. New York may be sporting a good record, but we can see right through them.
-For all this talk about the Vikings defense, there's very little walk. McNabb was on fire along with Reggie Brown, and Adrian Peterson was very average. Let's do some crappy football math shall we? One crappy QB+ one crappy QB= crappy QB play. Minnesota needs some help in the draft, badly. Until they get their offense for their overrated defense or there could be trouble. If McNabb has turned the corner here, the Eagles could be dangerous the rest of the way.
-It started out well for Carolina, but Indianapolis got the big plays going with Reggie Wayne, and you can't turn it over 3 times and expect to beat the Colts. The Panthers had it for over 36 minutes, but they only got 4.1 yards per pass attempt which is woeful. And without Jake Delhomme, Steve Smith is invisible in this offense. It's inexcusable to only get your star two catches, and that's the fault of the QB's and the coaching staff. Smith is one of those players that you want the ball in his hands whenever possible. Do some trick plays, some direct snaps, this offense needs a spark. Until then, the Colts will be the Colts and the Panthers will be in trouble.
-Finally! Chad played stinky enough to get yanked! Too bad the move was made at 1-7. Buffalo is very respectable because they played hard and made the right move at QB. The Jets play with no passion, and their a bunch of losers. A lot of players said they don't like playing for Mangini. Thomas Jones played fairly well, but he has to pick up the team's QB play if they want to succeed. Lee Evans is cultivating a good relationship with Trent Edwards, which is vital. Unfortunately he's injured and Just Pathetic Losman will start next week. These are two teams in opposite directions.
-It put a big fat smile on my face to see the Chargers win big last week against Houston. The brothers Antonio, Gates and Cromartie scored twice each and the Bolts cruised. The Texans are like people who get put back in prison right after they get out: they never learn from their mistakes. The offensive line has been atrocious for the total time span of this franchise's existence, and that's why the QB's threw 4 picks. No protection leads to disease; in this situation, a severe case of losing. See another young QB trend: Phillip Rivers threw 11 times, they won by 25. This never fails!!!! The Chargers are hitting stride.
-Jags-Bucs was one of those old school, physical, grindout games. But J-Ville played this really well. They suffocated Tampa with the run, which is what they had to do with Quinn Gray at QB. The man I call the Soap Opera QB (I swear Quinn Gray is the perfect soap opera name) only needed to throw 16 times, and the defense was tremendous. They got an INT QB and with a 17-3 lead, Jeff Garcia had to throw 41 times, which is way too much for him and they lost; not a surprise.
-Can anyone stop New England? Bill Bellichik is angry, and they ran up the score on a helpless Washington team to the tune of 52 points. But then the Skins had to bitch and moan about how they got ran up on. Tell Randall Godfrey to just shut up, if you don't wanna get embarrassed, stop them! What say you, Chris Mortensen?
"If I had been in their shoes, I would have it taken like men publicly (which most of them did) and seethed privately for about 24 hours."
Better luck next time, Godfrey. In 4 years.
-Drew Brees and Marques Colston, welcome to NFL 2K7. You're a bit late, but you guys can still get back to the bizz and take the division. Brees and MC were sickdiculous, and Bush did his thing. Losing sign for the Niners, Smith had 43 throws, Gore had 12 runs. Man someone isn't winning the popular vote in this offense. No recount here, Bush destroys Gore, no Florida necessary.
-When I'm 65 with grandchildren and emperor of the sports universe, I'll tell them that I was privileged to witness the career of Brett Favre. Those two big pass plays bookended the game and ended a suicide watch week in the greater Denver area. Big ups to Jay Cutler and Jason Elam for that game tying drive, but they were only the coming attractions for the main show. It didn't last long, but a message was sent to the Broncos and the National Conference is on notice.
Flash Forward
"it's like playing the Bachelor game with three fat and ugly chicks"
"It's so simple, that even Miss Teen South Carolina could understand"
"Those gray pants make them look slow"
"I swear Quinn Gray is the perfect soap opera name"
"No recount here"
"suicide watch week in the greater Denver area"
-Lions and 5-2? Usually I'd be called drunk, retarded, or maybe dyslexic. But Brian Griese critical errors allowed Detroit to win despite playing a fairly average game. They did hold the ball for almost 35 minutes, but Griese was picked off three times in the end zone! Kitna was efficient and Kevin Jones ran the ball well, two things that cannot be said for Chicago's "skill" players. Are we ready for the Kyle Orton era? With the QB's in the Windy City, it's like playing the Bachelor game show with three fat and ugly chicks. You lose no matter who you choose. At 3-5, the Bears are continuing the trend of Super Bowl losers doing poorly the next season.
-The Bengals are toast, as is Marvin Lewis. They play in a competetive division, and this is a game they had to have. The key to success for the Steelers is controlling the clock and limiting Big Ben's throws. 32 minutes of ball control, check. 26 throws for Roethlisberger, check. Win, check. It's so simple, that even Miss Teen South Carolina could understand. Parker had a very good game, Ward and Holmes were excellent, and Carson Palmer and co just didn't have enough. Kenny Watson was good, but their run defense sucks it long and hard (Trebeck). The Steelers are legit, folks.
-It was a good, defensive battle but the Titans run D turned out to be the difference. They held Oakland to 3.4 yards a carry, and forced Daunte Culpepper to win the game, which he cannot do anymore. Vince Young only threw 14 times, but Tennessee ran it 36 times at 5.3 yards a clip and earned the victory. By no means are the Titans elite on offense, but their defense could carry them a long way. Jeff Fisher really knows how to get the most out of a football team.
-At least the Rams looked competetive on Sunday, and Cleveland looked good persevering and coming back from a 14-0 defecit. Steven Jackson was a huge spark for St Louis, but he got injured and they pretty much lost it after that. The passing offense was finally clicking for the Rams, but their defense has to get back up to speed. Cleveland committed 14 penalties, but Anderson to Edwards sounds pretty good; music to the Dawg Pounds' ears. Cleveland is in the playoff picture.
-That London game was awful, but the Giants got a win out of it. The passing stats may have been the worst I've ever seen, but Brandon Jacobs ran well, and New York capitalized off of turnovers. If Miami had a few more breaks, they would have come up with that one. Jesse Chatman looks like a keeper, but are the Giants for real at 6-2? Gregg Easterbrook has the answer, treat!
"I am not sold on the Giants. Among other things, those gray pants make them look slow."
Trick! Not only does TMQ diss their NFC hopes, he ranks on their fashion sense. New York may be sporting a good record, but we can see right through them.
-For all this talk about the Vikings defense, there's very little walk. McNabb was on fire along with Reggie Brown, and Adrian Peterson was very average. Let's do some crappy football math shall we? One crappy QB+ one crappy QB= crappy QB play. Minnesota needs some help in the draft, badly. Until they get their offense for their overrated defense or there could be trouble. If McNabb has turned the corner here, the Eagles could be dangerous the rest of the way.
-It started out well for Carolina, but Indianapolis got the big plays going with Reggie Wayne, and you can't turn it over 3 times and expect to beat the Colts. The Panthers had it for over 36 minutes, but they only got 4.1 yards per pass attempt which is woeful. And without Jake Delhomme, Steve Smith is invisible in this offense. It's inexcusable to only get your star two catches, and that's the fault of the QB's and the coaching staff. Smith is one of those players that you want the ball in his hands whenever possible. Do some trick plays, some direct snaps, this offense needs a spark. Until then, the Colts will be the Colts and the Panthers will be in trouble.
-Finally! Chad played stinky enough to get yanked! Too bad the move was made at 1-7. Buffalo is very respectable because they played hard and made the right move at QB. The Jets play with no passion, and their a bunch of losers. A lot of players said they don't like playing for Mangini. Thomas Jones played fairly well, but he has to pick up the team's QB play if they want to succeed. Lee Evans is cultivating a good relationship with Trent Edwards, which is vital. Unfortunately he's injured and Just Pathetic Losman will start next week. These are two teams in opposite directions.
-It put a big fat smile on my face to see the Chargers win big last week against Houston. The brothers Antonio, Gates and Cromartie scored twice each and the Bolts cruised. The Texans are like people who get put back in prison right after they get out: they never learn from their mistakes. The offensive line has been atrocious for the total time span of this franchise's existence, and that's why the QB's threw 4 picks. No protection leads to disease; in this situation, a severe case of losing. See another young QB trend: Phillip Rivers threw 11 times, they won by 25. This never fails!!!! The Chargers are hitting stride.
-Jags-Bucs was one of those old school, physical, grindout games. But J-Ville played this really well. They suffocated Tampa with the run, which is what they had to do with Quinn Gray at QB. The man I call the Soap Opera QB (I swear Quinn Gray is the perfect soap opera name) only needed to throw 16 times, and the defense was tremendous. They got an INT QB and with a 17-3 lead, Jeff Garcia had to throw 41 times, which is way too much for him and they lost; not a surprise.
-Can anyone stop New England? Bill Bellichik is angry, and they ran up the score on a helpless Washington team to the tune of 52 points. But then the Skins had to bitch and moan about how they got ran up on. Tell Randall Godfrey to just shut up, if you don't wanna get embarrassed, stop them! What say you, Chris Mortensen?
"If I had been in their shoes, I would have it taken like men publicly (which most of them did) and seethed privately for about 24 hours."
Better luck next time, Godfrey. In 4 years.
-Drew Brees and Marques Colston, welcome to NFL 2K7. You're a bit late, but you guys can still get back to the bizz and take the division. Brees and MC were sickdiculous, and Bush did his thing. Losing sign for the Niners, Smith had 43 throws, Gore had 12 runs. Man someone isn't winning the popular vote in this offense. No recount here, Bush destroys Gore, no Florida necessary.
-When I'm 65 with grandchildren and emperor of the sports universe, I'll tell them that I was privileged to witness the career of Brett Favre. Those two big pass plays bookended the game and ended a suicide watch week in the greater Denver area. Big ups to Jay Cutler and Jason Elam for that game tying drive, but they were only the coming attractions for the main show. It didn't last long, but a message was sent to the Broncos and the National Conference is on notice.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
NFL Daily Presents: Analytical Assault Week 6
Breaking News Trade Deadline
According to John Clayton of ESPN, the Chargers are set to acquire WR Chris Chambers from the Dolphins. More details forthcoming on SOS and tomorrow in The Wednesday Rundown on SOS2.
3:30pm- According to FoxSports.com, Chambers will be dealt for a 2nd round pick. Chambers has confirmed the deal. As many of you already know, Michael Bennett has been acquired from the Chiefs by Tampa Bay to get more depth at RB.
Duels, trends, ratios. So many fun things going on. Getcha popcorn and dentures ready, cause I'm flying solo and the ride will be Hester fast and Welker shifty. "And now, I've made far too many daytime TV references."
-Hester fast you ask? Peterson dominant, says Minnesota. The Vikes won because they rushed the ball 43 times, 20 and 224 of those yards by Adrian Peterson, and he averaged 32 yards a kick return. Accept your OROY trophy, AP. "I'd like to thank the little people, like Tarvaris for getting the hell outta my way." He was 9/23, and while Brian Greise played well, the Bears will lose every time he throws it 45 times. Cedric Benson has nothing! He's in the negative! He'd get kicked out halfway through Jeopardy, and Alex Trebeck, Will Ferrell, Sean Connery, and Darrell Hammond could do better than Benson. In fact, those 4 could probably stop the run better than the Bear defense, who have apparently gone into hibernation. And new PIR host Drew Carey could make the Pro Bowl as a lead blocker for AP. He makes it easy. Hester returned a punt, and caught an 81 yard TD but Peterson stole the show.
-Braylon Edwards! Pinch your cheeks, you've grown up so very much this year. 3 TD catches to lead the Browns past the winless Dolphins. And man, can Cleveland score. Derek Anderson only needed 25 throws, and the running game was good enough without Jamal Lewis. Cleo Lemon threw it 43 times, that usually signals a loss. Ronnie Brown was a stud as usual, but the Miami defense has lost their luster, and now they're just a bad unit.
-What an ugly, yet oddly entertaining and exciting game between 2 of the NFC's "best". Both teams had great chances to win this game outright, but either fumbles or picks caused the team to fall short. Nobody really stood out besides for Chris Cooley and Charles Woodson, who won the game for the Pack. Both defenses played well, but Green Bay made like Gloria Gaynor and survived, and made like Harry Houdini and escaped.
-Chad Johnson was cool when his team was winning, now he just looks like an idiot. And after I threatened to kill Herm Edwards if he didn't start pounding Larry Johnson, he came threw and not surprisingly came up with the win. 31 for 119, that's how LJ should run every game. It keeps the defense honest and allowed the team to have the ball over 35 minutes, allowed Damon Huard to be efficient, and allowed Tony Gonzalez to break the Tight End TD record. Cincy needs Rudi Johnson to get back healthy, because Carson Palmer will make mistakes when forced to throw too many times. And maybe the Jailcats defense will stop somebody once in a blue moon. Low and behold, the Chiefs are in this AFC West race.
-The Bench Chad watch continues. The Jets Mime Tackling Club was in session once again, and allowed the only TD of the game on a long whiff-fest. Also returning were the hit comedies (tragedies for Jet fans) Same Damn Chad INT and Pathetic Playcalling featuring the 4th and 1 Fade of Doom that lost them the game (4 plays and a cloud of disgust says the New York Times). Thomas Jones was playing well, pound the god damn ball! If this is all Mangenious can do, then perhaps he had a coaching "stroke" if you will. I'll admit that's wrong, but so is putting out such a bad team in front of paying fans. Westbrook played well for the Eagles, but they were just along for the ride of the Gang Green Train Wreck.
-What a wild one in Tampa Bay, but the Bucs seem determined to have a good year. I'll give Tennesee credit for going out and tying the score even with Vince Young out of the game, but Jeff Garcia just willed them down the field for the game winning score from Matt Bryant, who is really a clutch kicker. Now the question will be why Jeff Fisher didn't ice the kicker. It's a lose-lose for everyone involved except for Nick Folk. The Bucs running game was nonexistent so they traded for Michael Bennett today. Galloway and Hilliard continue to excel, and Tampa keeps finding ways to win, despite the Titans having the ball for over 37 minutes. 3 turnovers also don't help if you're Tennessee.
-Wow! That's a 3 letter word I can say about the Jaguars. Insert a 4 letter word if you're a Texans fan, cause y'all got clobbered in the 2nd half. Garrard controlled it well, they got big plays from Taylor, from Jones-Drew, and from the defense. They stopped the run, and only allowed Owen Daniels to have a big game. He's really underrated. If Jacksonville keeps the turnovers down, they can beat the Colts next week.
-Humiliated, hammered, humbled, demoralized, dominated, destroyed. In HD, high definition. Ravens rock Rams, Frerotte throws 5 picks, Stover kicks 5 FG's, St Louis kneels down at the end of the game to end it, to beg for mercy, to beg to live another week. The defense did most of the work, the offense just moved it into Stover range. That's a game where a horrible offense meets a huge defense. It was a total annihilation.
-Buy me some dentures and prune juice, we don't care if they ever come back! Cause it's root, root for Vinny! 206 in the air, no picks, Williams and Smith played great. Arizona chose to sign Tim Rattay over Vinny, he came in for an injured Warner, threw 3 picks and will now start. And now they signed Tim Hasselbeck who's best known for a wife on The View, now they need another QB, and now I've made far too many daytime TV references. James and Fitzgerald were OK, but the QB cost them the game, and it's all Matt Leinart's fault. Now messing with karma is messing over the entire team. Karma 2 Whineart 0. Maybe Carolina will be able to get by. Heck, they play in the NFC South!
-Welker shifty? How bout Brady nifty, Patriots unstoppable, stale popcorn in the 2nd half, and we're all witnesses to one of the greatest teams EVER. That's in caps, as in there may not be a ceiling to their success, the Pats didn't even play their best football. To Dallas, New England is like Visa: It's everywhere they want to be. They're the measuring stick of the elite, they're the barometer of where the Boys have to go to reach the next level. Romo must look to Brady, the Cowboys weapons have to look to the Pats weapons of Welker, Stallworth, Watson, and oh yeah Moss. Dallas was lit up, there's nothing that could stop them. The Boys are head and shoulders above the NFC, but New England is head and shoulders above the rest of the universe. Another level, an entirely different stratosphere, and everyone wants what they've got.
-LT is angry. And when he plays with a mean streak, he's great. 4 TD's for LT + 21 throws for Phil Rivers=Victory. If Norv limits the throws Rivers attempts, San Diego stays classy. But Norv is a big fat loser, had to say it. And once LT got on a roll, the Raiders could have done anything but it would not have mattered. And Oakland played well, but it was a moot point. The AFC West is the Bolts' for the taking if they don't screw anything up.
-Beep-beep. Beep-beep. What's that? It's a pulse from the Saints. Bush played well, Patten could emerge as Drew Brees' top target, and Matt Hasselbeck's heroice weren't enough. The big question is can they build upon this win? And will anyone be consistent in the NFC West? There are more pathetic divisions in football in one year than I can ever remember.
-Here at the SOS research department, we've come out with a major discovery: all QB's whose last named end in the suffix "-ington" are terrible. Subject A, Chad Pennington. Subject B, Joey Harrington. 18/39, 3/13 on 3rd downs, billions of 3 and outs. You can't win that way! The Giants defense was dominant, they're offense held the ball for almost 40 minutes, and Plaxico Burress is emerging as a stud. Eli Manning is showing improvement, but will have to cut down on the INT's. In a terrible NFC, the once lost Giants have now been found, and now find themselves in the conference mix.
According to John Clayton of ESPN, the Chargers are set to acquire WR Chris Chambers from the Dolphins. More details forthcoming on SOS and tomorrow in The Wednesday Rundown on SOS2.
3:30pm- According to FoxSports.com, Chambers will be dealt for a 2nd round pick. Chambers has confirmed the deal. As many of you already know, Michael Bennett has been acquired from the Chiefs by Tampa Bay to get more depth at RB.
Duels, trends, ratios. So many fun things going on. Getcha popcorn and dentures ready, cause I'm flying solo and the ride will be Hester fast and Welker shifty. "And now, I've made far too many daytime TV references."
-Hester fast you ask? Peterson dominant, says Minnesota. The Vikes won because they rushed the ball 43 times, 20 and 224 of those yards by Adrian Peterson, and he averaged 32 yards a kick return. Accept your OROY trophy, AP. "I'd like to thank the little people, like Tarvaris for getting the hell outta my way." He was 9/23, and while Brian Greise played well, the Bears will lose every time he throws it 45 times. Cedric Benson has nothing! He's in the negative! He'd get kicked out halfway through Jeopardy, and Alex Trebeck, Will Ferrell, Sean Connery, and Darrell Hammond could do better than Benson. In fact, those 4 could probably stop the run better than the Bear defense, who have apparently gone into hibernation. And new PIR host Drew Carey could make the Pro Bowl as a lead blocker for AP. He makes it easy. Hester returned a punt, and caught an 81 yard TD but Peterson stole the show.
-Braylon Edwards! Pinch your cheeks, you've grown up so very much this year. 3 TD catches to lead the Browns past the winless Dolphins. And man, can Cleveland score. Derek Anderson only needed 25 throws, and the running game was good enough without Jamal Lewis. Cleo Lemon threw it 43 times, that usually signals a loss. Ronnie Brown was a stud as usual, but the Miami defense has lost their luster, and now they're just a bad unit.
-What an ugly, yet oddly entertaining and exciting game between 2 of the NFC's "best". Both teams had great chances to win this game outright, but either fumbles or picks caused the team to fall short. Nobody really stood out besides for Chris Cooley and Charles Woodson, who won the game for the Pack. Both defenses played well, but Green Bay made like Gloria Gaynor and survived, and made like Harry Houdini and escaped.
-Chad Johnson was cool when his team was winning, now he just looks like an idiot. And after I threatened to kill Herm Edwards if he didn't start pounding Larry Johnson, he came threw and not surprisingly came up with the win. 31 for 119, that's how LJ should run every game. It keeps the defense honest and allowed the team to have the ball over 35 minutes, allowed Damon Huard to be efficient, and allowed Tony Gonzalez to break the Tight End TD record. Cincy needs Rudi Johnson to get back healthy, because Carson Palmer will make mistakes when forced to throw too many times. And maybe the Jailcats defense will stop somebody once in a blue moon. Low and behold, the Chiefs are in this AFC West race.
-The Bench Chad watch continues. The Jets Mime Tackling Club was in session once again, and allowed the only TD of the game on a long whiff-fest. Also returning were the hit comedies (tragedies for Jet fans) Same Damn Chad INT and Pathetic Playcalling featuring the 4th and 1 Fade of Doom that lost them the game (4 plays and a cloud of disgust says the New York Times). Thomas Jones was playing well, pound the god damn ball! If this is all Mangenious can do, then perhaps he had a coaching "stroke" if you will. I'll admit that's wrong, but so is putting out such a bad team in front of paying fans. Westbrook played well for the Eagles, but they were just along for the ride of the Gang Green Train Wreck.
-What a wild one in Tampa Bay, but the Bucs seem determined to have a good year. I'll give Tennesee credit for going out and tying the score even with Vince Young out of the game, but Jeff Garcia just willed them down the field for the game winning score from Matt Bryant, who is really a clutch kicker. Now the question will be why Jeff Fisher didn't ice the kicker. It's a lose-lose for everyone involved except for Nick Folk. The Bucs running game was nonexistent so they traded for Michael Bennett today. Galloway and Hilliard continue to excel, and Tampa keeps finding ways to win, despite the Titans having the ball for over 37 minutes. 3 turnovers also don't help if you're Tennessee.
-Wow! That's a 3 letter word I can say about the Jaguars. Insert a 4 letter word if you're a Texans fan, cause y'all got clobbered in the 2nd half. Garrard controlled it well, they got big plays from Taylor, from Jones-Drew, and from the defense. They stopped the run, and only allowed Owen Daniels to have a big game. He's really underrated. If Jacksonville keeps the turnovers down, they can beat the Colts next week.
-Humiliated, hammered, humbled, demoralized, dominated, destroyed. In HD, high definition. Ravens rock Rams, Frerotte throws 5 picks, Stover kicks 5 FG's, St Louis kneels down at the end of the game to end it, to beg for mercy, to beg to live another week. The defense did most of the work, the offense just moved it into Stover range. That's a game where a horrible offense meets a huge defense. It was a total annihilation.
-Buy me some dentures and prune juice, we don't care if they ever come back! Cause it's root, root for Vinny! 206 in the air, no picks, Williams and Smith played great. Arizona chose to sign Tim Rattay over Vinny, he came in for an injured Warner, threw 3 picks and will now start. And now they signed Tim Hasselbeck who's best known for a wife on The View, now they need another QB, and now I've made far too many daytime TV references. James and Fitzgerald were OK, but the QB cost them the game, and it's all Matt Leinart's fault. Now messing with karma is messing over the entire team. Karma 2 Whineart 0. Maybe Carolina will be able to get by. Heck, they play in the NFC South!
-Welker shifty? How bout Brady nifty, Patriots unstoppable, stale popcorn in the 2nd half, and we're all witnesses to one of the greatest teams EVER. That's in caps, as in there may not be a ceiling to their success, the Pats didn't even play their best football. To Dallas, New England is like Visa: It's everywhere they want to be. They're the measuring stick of the elite, they're the barometer of where the Boys have to go to reach the next level. Romo must look to Brady, the Cowboys weapons have to look to the Pats weapons of Welker, Stallworth, Watson, and oh yeah Moss. Dallas was lit up, there's nothing that could stop them. The Boys are head and shoulders above the NFC, but New England is head and shoulders above the rest of the universe. Another level, an entirely different stratosphere, and everyone wants what they've got.
-LT is angry. And when he plays with a mean streak, he's great. 4 TD's for LT + 21 throws for Phil Rivers=Victory. If Norv limits the throws Rivers attempts, San Diego stays classy. But Norv is a big fat loser, had to say it. And once LT got on a roll, the Raiders could have done anything but it would not have mattered. And Oakland played well, but it was a moot point. The AFC West is the Bolts' for the taking if they don't screw anything up.
-Beep-beep. Beep-beep. What's that? It's a pulse from the Saints. Bush played well, Patten could emerge as Drew Brees' top target, and Matt Hasselbeck's heroice weren't enough. The big question is can they build upon this win? And will anyone be consistent in the NFC West? There are more pathetic divisions in football in one year than I can ever remember.
-Here at the SOS research department, we've come out with a major discovery: all QB's whose last named end in the suffix "-ington" are terrible. Subject A, Chad Pennington. Subject B, Joey Harrington. 18/39, 3/13 on 3rd downs, billions of 3 and outs. You can't win that way! The Giants defense was dominant, they're offense held the ball for almost 40 minutes, and Plaxico Burress is emerging as a stud. Eli Manning is showing improvement, but will have to cut down on the INT's. In a terrible NFC, the once lost Giants have now been found, and now find themselves in the conference mix.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
NFL Daily Presents: Week 6 Picks ATS
Normal format this week as regular, hard hitting analysis comes with an array of guests. ESPN super analyst Chris Mortensen will be on, as well as Marwan Maaloof, Ken Moll, and Keith Kidd of Scouts' INC.
-Vikings-Bears will be interesting, and the balance of the game will hinge on whether Brian Greise can effectively throw the ball against a weak Minnesota secondary. I'm assuming that the Vikings won't be able to do much offensively, and that the Vikes will stuff Cedric Benson and the rushing game. The deciding factor will ultimately be Devin Hester. The game may come down to a defensive or special teams score, and I give that edge and 5.5 points to Chicago.
-Cleveland excels on even numbered weeks. That may sound like someone picking an NCAA tourney team by pretty colors or mascot, but it's a tried and true trend this season. It also helps that the Dolphins, led by Cleo Lemon are terrible. Expect the Browns to go vertical with Edwards and Winslow, and for Ronnie Brown to have another good game in a losing cause. Cleveland at home with the 4.5
-Green Bay is coming off a loss against the Bears, as they host the red hot Redskins. Ken Moll will start of the analysis of this one:
"Sprung, The Packers need to run the ball effectively. It's tough to stay with that approach when you get stuffed a few times but it's the best thing for Brett. He'll always get his throws in but keep the skins defense honest. The Packers defense will take care of itself."
Moll is assuming that the Packers will stuff the Washington run, and force Jason Campbell to make plays. If either running game works, that team would have a decided advantage. That being said, assuming the runs are neutralized on both sides, I give the edge to Favre and the home team plus the 3.5.
-As an aside, check out Thursday's New York Times discussing a riveting piece about the Odell Thurman case. The Bengals need a win over the Chiefs to save their season, and Kansas City must control the clock with Larry Johnson against a poor Cincinnati rush defense. That's the only way KC has a chance. I will now introduce to you a matchup of old dogs (Ty Law and Patrick Surtain) against new tricks (Chad Johnson and TJ Houshmanzadeh). Old dogs used to be new tricks, but new tricks now leave old dogs in the dust and earn the Jumpsuits at least a field goal win.
-I regret not having an insider's take on the Titans-Bucs game, because it will be a very underrated contest. Tennessee's D has been greatly improved, with stellar play from Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden Bosch. With the Tampa rushing attack in the situation it's in, the Bucs will rely on big plays from Jeff Garcia. The Titans will rely on Vince Young. I have upset music singing in my brain, and the Titans will steal a road dog win. Woof.
-The Jets will be going back to the 60's with their old blue and gold New York Titans jerseys. Let's hope they're not ugly like the Eagles Parakeet duds, but Gang Green fans should hope for similar Parakeet results. I asked Marwan Maaloof if this game was an elimination matchup, with both teams only possessing a win each:
"SOS, You can classify it as an elimination game. I've said all along that there can't be anymore talk of "still early in the season". The route to the playoffs begins now!"
Yeah! I'm fired up now! The Jets have Chad Pennington! They're screwed! Eagles plus 2.5, I need to calm down.
-If Baltimore scores more than 10 points, they'll probably cover against the Rams. The team did put 31 up on Arizona in a loss, but that's not the Ravens D. All Baltimore has to do is pound McGahee and let the D do the work, Ravens plus 9.5.
-Big divisional game between the Jaguars and Texans, and it should be close. Keith Kidd told me that the Jags should win 20-10, but I'll take Houston to cover the 6.5 here.
-Football math! Carr+Testaverde+Moore= bad QB option. Unless the Panthers find a way to majorly D up against the Cardinals, I'll give Arizona the edge. No symbolic James reference there, Cards plus 3.5.
-San Diego shredded the Broncos and have the elite confidence that even a horrible coach like Norv Turner can't take away from them. Here's the plan, tranquilize Turner, give the ball to LT, and beat Oakland by 10+.
-As a Cowboys fan, I'm pumpedupbutscaredashell about this Duel in Dallas (TM??) against the Patriots. A big factor in this matchup will be what defenses Bill Belichik throws at Tony Romo, who managed to look worse than Pennington and John David Booty combined. Chris Mortensen takes us inside:
"Eleven men on the field...just kidding. Belichick typically decides to take away the most important factor/player from an offense and see how that team responds. In this case, I would expect him to do all he can to neutralize Terrell Owens and maybe Witten, the tight end."
With the multiple "scenes" Owens had this week, he needs to be fed the ball early and often. If that doesn't happen, and New England is able to spread out the Dallas defense, it could get uglier than a drunk Lindsey Lohan with a Parakeet jersey on. I'll go with the Pats with the 5.
-New Orleans hasn't proven jack, expect the Seahawks to rebound and romp over the Saints. Seattle plus the 7, big game for Alexander and 40+ throws for Brees.
-Will this be a trap game for the Giants? I doubt it, but it may end up being close in Atlanta. I'll cautiously take New York and the 3.5
-Vikings-Bears will be interesting, and the balance of the game will hinge on whether Brian Greise can effectively throw the ball against a weak Minnesota secondary. I'm assuming that the Vikings won't be able to do much offensively, and that the Vikes will stuff Cedric Benson and the rushing game. The deciding factor will ultimately be Devin Hester. The game may come down to a defensive or special teams score, and I give that edge and 5.5 points to Chicago.
-Cleveland excels on even numbered weeks. That may sound like someone picking an NCAA tourney team by pretty colors or mascot, but it's a tried and true trend this season. It also helps that the Dolphins, led by Cleo Lemon are terrible. Expect the Browns to go vertical with Edwards and Winslow, and for Ronnie Brown to have another good game in a losing cause. Cleveland at home with the 4.5
-Green Bay is coming off a loss against the Bears, as they host the red hot Redskins. Ken Moll will start of the analysis of this one:
"Sprung, The Packers need to run the ball effectively. It's tough to stay with that approach when you get stuffed a few times but it's the best thing for Brett. He'll always get his throws in but keep the skins defense honest. The Packers defense will take care of itself."
Moll is assuming that the Packers will stuff the Washington run, and force Jason Campbell to make plays. If either running game works, that team would have a decided advantage. That being said, assuming the runs are neutralized on both sides, I give the edge to Favre and the home team plus the 3.5.
-As an aside, check out Thursday's New York Times discussing a riveting piece about the Odell Thurman case. The Bengals need a win over the Chiefs to save their season, and Kansas City must control the clock with Larry Johnson against a poor Cincinnati rush defense. That's the only way KC has a chance. I will now introduce to you a matchup of old dogs (Ty Law and Patrick Surtain) against new tricks (Chad Johnson and TJ Houshmanzadeh). Old dogs used to be new tricks, but new tricks now leave old dogs in the dust and earn the Jumpsuits at least a field goal win.
-I regret not having an insider's take on the Titans-Bucs game, because it will be a very underrated contest. Tennessee's D has been greatly improved, with stellar play from Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden Bosch. With the Tampa rushing attack in the situation it's in, the Bucs will rely on big plays from Jeff Garcia. The Titans will rely on Vince Young. I have upset music singing in my brain, and the Titans will steal a road dog win. Woof.
-The Jets will be going back to the 60's with their old blue and gold New York Titans jerseys. Let's hope they're not ugly like the Eagles Parakeet duds, but Gang Green fans should hope for similar Parakeet results. I asked Marwan Maaloof if this game was an elimination matchup, with both teams only possessing a win each:
"SOS, You can classify it as an elimination game. I've said all along that there can't be anymore talk of "still early in the season". The route to the playoffs begins now!"
Yeah! I'm fired up now! The Jets have Chad Pennington! They're screwed! Eagles plus 2.5, I need to calm down.
-If Baltimore scores more than 10 points, they'll probably cover against the Rams. The team did put 31 up on Arizona in a loss, but that's not the Ravens D. All Baltimore has to do is pound McGahee and let the D do the work, Ravens plus 9.5.
-Big divisional game between the Jaguars and Texans, and it should be close. Keith Kidd told me that the Jags should win 20-10, but I'll take Houston to cover the 6.5 here.
-Football math! Carr+Testaverde+Moore= bad QB option. Unless the Panthers find a way to majorly D up against the Cardinals, I'll give Arizona the edge. No symbolic James reference there, Cards plus 3.5.
-San Diego shredded the Broncos and have the elite confidence that even a horrible coach like Norv Turner can't take away from them. Here's the plan, tranquilize Turner, give the ball to LT, and beat Oakland by 10+.
-As a Cowboys fan, I'm pumpedupbutscaredashell about this Duel in Dallas (TM??) against the Patriots. A big factor in this matchup will be what defenses Bill Belichik throws at Tony Romo, who managed to look worse than Pennington and John David Booty combined. Chris Mortensen takes us inside:
"Eleven men on the field...just kidding. Belichick typically decides to take away the most important factor/player from an offense and see how that team responds. In this case, I would expect him to do all he can to neutralize Terrell Owens and maybe Witten, the tight end."
With the multiple "scenes" Owens had this week, he needs to be fed the ball early and often. If that doesn't happen, and New England is able to spread out the Dallas defense, it could get uglier than a drunk Lindsey Lohan with a Parakeet jersey on. I'll go with the Pats with the 5.
-New Orleans hasn't proven jack, expect the Seahawks to rebound and romp over the Saints. Seattle plus the 7, big game for Alexander and 40+ throws for Brees.
-Will this be a trap game for the Giants? I doubt it, but it may end up being close in Atlanta. I'll cautiously take New York and the 3.5
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
A-Train Express- Sports Stop
This may be the only night without major sports going for a while but there is still sports brewing on the A-Train Express. First stop is the NFL:
- Brett Favre. This record breaking QB is throwing bombs and the b-e-autiful slant pattern. I'm telling you, if he shed a few pounds and lost the beard i might have thought he was in his twenties. And did you see the way that kid ran down the field to congratulate himself, and his receiver of course. The guy looks like a kid who just beat up the bully in school. Way to excited, but it is nice to see. Too bad a man named Peyton is going to shatter all of the records you could imagine.
- Daunte Culpepper is the man. He now not only can throw touchdown passes but he could run for them too. Three of them to be exact. We all knew he had some wheels but he was rolling like the road runner's legs. I think he had 31 fantasy points. This is guy who doesn't have anyone named Randy or Chris anymore. Now that's impressive. Look out the Raiders are winning!
- I don't like Tom Brady so much but he is immune to defensive pressure. Its flat out unreal. I hate the fact that he has four (not including the two tight ends) receivers who can catch. I hate the fact that he had the most completions in his first 100 passes than anyone ever. I hate the fact that he's like a model and that he's considered a celebrity. And most importantly, i hate the look on his face after he got hit against the Bengals. It was like, "I'm Tom Brady, I'm to pretty to get hit, and that not in my contract, I want a bonus for this." He is so damn good though and Randy Moss has 7 TD receptions so while the Pats are going 16-0, I just kick back relax and enjoy the Jets.
-Next Stop MLB Playoffs:
Predictions:
NL: Cubs over D-Backs- 4 games
Rockies over Phillies- 5 games
Cubs over Rockies- 6 games
AL: Indians over Yankees- 5 games
Red Sox over Angels- 4 games
Indians over Red Sox- 7 games
Word Series:
Indians over Cubs- 5 games
WS MVP- Grady Sizemore
NL MVP: Matt Holliday
AL MVP: Alex Rodriguez
NL Cy Young: Jake Peavy
AL Cy Young: Josh Beckett
NL ROY: Ryan Braun
AL ROY: Dustin Pedroia
- Thats all for now, till next time, eat, drink and sleep sports.
- Brett Favre. This record breaking QB is throwing bombs and the b-e-autiful slant pattern. I'm telling you, if he shed a few pounds and lost the beard i might have thought he was in his twenties. And did you see the way that kid ran down the field to congratulate himself, and his receiver of course. The guy looks like a kid who just beat up the bully in school. Way to excited, but it is nice to see. Too bad a man named Peyton is going to shatter all of the records you could imagine.
- Daunte Culpepper is the man. He now not only can throw touchdown passes but he could run for them too. Three of them to be exact. We all knew he had some wheels but he was rolling like the road runner's legs. I think he had 31 fantasy points. This is guy who doesn't have anyone named Randy or Chris anymore. Now that's impressive. Look out the Raiders are winning!
- I don't like Tom Brady so much but he is immune to defensive pressure. Its flat out unreal. I hate the fact that he has four (not including the two tight ends) receivers who can catch. I hate the fact that he had the most completions in his first 100 passes than anyone ever. I hate the fact that he's like a model and that he's considered a celebrity. And most importantly, i hate the look on his face after he got hit against the Bengals. It was like, "I'm Tom Brady, I'm to pretty to get hit, and that not in my contract, I want a bonus for this." He is so damn good though and Randy Moss has 7 TD receptions so while the Pats are going 16-0, I just kick back relax and enjoy the Jets.
-Next Stop MLB Playoffs:
Predictions:
NL: Cubs over D-Backs- 4 games
Rockies over Phillies- 5 games
Cubs over Rockies- 6 games
AL: Indians over Yankees- 5 games
Red Sox over Angels- 4 games
Indians over Red Sox- 7 games
Word Series:
Indians over Cubs- 5 games
WS MVP- Grady Sizemore
NL MVP: Matt Holliday
AL MVP: Alex Rodriguez
NL Cy Young: Jake Peavy
AL Cy Young: Josh Beckett
NL ROY: Ryan Braun
AL ROY: Dustin Pedroia
- Thats all for now, till next time, eat, drink and sleep sports.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
NFL Daily Presents: NFL Analytical Assault Week3
There were great performances, awful jerseys, and surprises from 3-0 all the way down to 0-3. Scouts INC analysts Ken Moll and Matt Williamson chime in as well.
- Two surprises hit the first game of the week, Green Bay's great 3-0 start led by a stout defense and a good ball moving offense led by 420 TD passer Brett Favre who led a furious comeback ending in a Greg Jennings score. Then there are the 1-2 Chargers who can't seem to get LaDanian Tomlinson in any kind of rhythm, and he fought on the sideline with Phil Rivers to boot, who played catch well with Gates until the final drive where Nick Barnett picked him off to seal the deal. The big question is how much do the Bolts miss Marty Schottenheimer. Considering their 14-2 mark last year and their current status, I'd say a whole hell of a lot. A trend is starting for the Chargers that no team will run on them because they're just awful against the pass. New England was first to exploit this, and then Green Bay only ran the ball 13 times compared to throwing it 45 times. A 3-1 pass-run ratio should probably clue Ron Rivera in that the pass coverage is costing them games, and more trouble will arise if the problem can't be quelled.
- What wasn't a surprise was how the Vikings offense disappeared in the 2nd half against Kansas City, which allowed the Chiefs to come back and take Minnesota 13-10. Larry Johnson can't for the life of him get it going on offense, but still won despite a ghastly 1.6 yards per rushing attempt. That's because Damon Huard stepped up and threw for a high percentage (20/29) including the game winning strike to emerging rookie Dwayne Bowe. The Chiefs were also a decent 6/15 on 3rd downs and just got by with a win.
- New England may have gotten down early in the game, but was there realy a doubt to this outcome? JP Losman got hurt and was replaced by rookie Trent Edwards, who may have a better chance at leading this Buffalo team than Losman. I don't care if Marshawn Lynch played like Barry Sanders, your team can't win with 83 total passing yards. This team's in trouble, and it may be a good time to give Edwards a chance. I may not be a Stanford man like Edwards was, but I know enough to realize that the Bills are going nowhere. Tom Brady was magnificent, only throwing 6 incompletions and averaging over 10 yards per attempt. Maroney broke 100 on less then 20 carries, and were able to get Sammy Morris a good amount of touches to keep the defense honest. It was just like Christmas in April for Brady when the Pats traded for Randy Moss and Wes Welker, as the team has more weapons than a certain visiting Middle Eastern President. 34 minutes with the ball and very good secondary play holding Lee Evans to one reception allowed New England to once again dominate.
- The Jets finally got a win as Thomas Jones and Leon Washington were factors in a win over Miami. New York however, allowed the Dolphins to come back in the 4th after Gang Green seemingly put the game away at 31-13. Trent Green performed very well, and Ronnie Brown accounted for over 200 yards total offense and 3 scored. Chris Chambers continues to play well also. Matt Williamson commented on the Miami offense and the two teams in general:
"They did (a nice job on offense) and R Brown had a real big game. Still, I thought that was a close game between two pretty bad teams with poor talent in the trenches."
- With ugly jerseys and high scores, I thought that the Arena League came a bit early to the Linc, but that was Donovan McNabb coming up with a huge game to silence his critics and hooking up with Kevin Curtis to the tune of 42 first half points in a huge win over a Lions defense that got more scorched than the Russian soil during the Napoleonic Era. Westbrook also had a monster game, as did Kitna and Williams for Detroit. Can the Eagles attack perform even half as well against the Giants next week? But back to the jerseys, were those the ugliest duds ever worn in a game, Matt Williamson?
"Not sure on that one, but those Eagles' throwbacks really made my head hurt."
The Philly offense made my head spin, and may have given a migraine or two to the Lions staff.
- Is it just me, or is Pittsburgh making it look easy? Mike Tomlin did a tremendous job opening up the offense, Willie Parker was a beast, and the defense and special teams each had a TD. If a Steelers fan can't smile about that, his mouth must be wired shut. Alex Smith looked puzzled in the 4th quarter, and Frank Gore couldn't really get anything going. The 49ers shouldn't be discouraged though, they were flat out beat by a black and gold machine.
- Perhaps one discouraged team should be the Rams. Bulger has bad ribs, the offensive line is a MASH unit, Steven Jackson will miss at least a week, and you're 0-3. Tampa Bay got great running games from Michael Pittman and the unlikely Earnest Graham who scored 2 TD's in the 4th to seal the deal. Are the Bucs for real? There has been a recent trend over the years of cellar dwellers winning the NFC South the next year, you never know in this division.
- Ken Whisenhunt went back to college on Sunday, putting Kurt Warner in on no huddle situations and leading a furious comeback that almost materialized against Baltimore. The coach obviously knows what works against the Ravens D from his years at Pittsburgh, but what does it say about Matt Leinart, when he was yanked twice during the contest? The plan is fantastic in a vacuum, but not when emotions and confidence levels are put into the equation. The McNoller QB combo did well for Baltimore, but not as well as Willis McGahee or Anquan Boldin, who lit up the B'More back 4. Ken Moll talked about the Ravens chances this season:
"They have a chance if they can continue to play solid defense. I Know the Cardinals came back but Lewis and the Boys are excellent and they have a chance to be a wild card team. Steelers win the division if they continue to play (well)."
- You almost feel that the Colts never feel that they're going to lose, despite the close results of the games they play. Their special teams allowed another kickoff return to the house to open the game, but Manning and co never panicked, and Addai ran for 2 scores. Schaub played decently, but you can't expect him to do it all himself. The Texans had 40 total rushing yards, and that's why they lost. Unacceptable!
- If you wanna talk about a team dominating the line of scrimmage, you'll talk about what Jacksonville did to Denver on Sunday. The Jags had the ball for almost 39 minutes, rushed the ball 47 times at exactly 4 yards a rush, and held the Broncos to 47 yards rushing. The only reason why Denver was in the game was because of Brandon Marshall, who had a monster game. The Denver rush D needs to perform better or this team won't be reaching the postseason.
- What goes around comes around, right Raiders? The timeout that doomed them against Denver, saved them in a tight one against Cleveland? If this timeout thing is some sort of chain, then the Ravens should watch out next week. McCown and co started off with a 16-0 lead, and then the Browns came storming back with special teams and good days from Winslow and Edwards. But both teams aren't that good, and a time out was the difference. It looks like ice is hot, especially with the game on the line.
- The Bengals converted 11 times on 18 3rd downs and lost, because they turned the ball over 4 times. Rudi Johnson had 17 carries for 9 yards, and Seattle was able to escape with a win because nobody decided to cover Nate Burleson. Alexander had a nice game, and it looks like the Seahawks are back on track.
- If the Falcons still can't win when Joey Harrington has a monster day, I don't know when they'll get a victory. Foster played well to help out a team that had to change QB's because of an injury, and the Falcons are incredibly pathetic. I don't want to get cursed out like a Cubs fan did to me yesterday, so I'll stop here. I'll just say that the Falcons will be on the clock in April.
- The Giants knew that they're season was on the line, and they responded in the 2nd half. Tom Coughlin hasn't lost his team yet, and the Redskins have finally gone back down to earth where they belong. In the 4th quarter, either Joe Gibbs forgot how to coach, had a bad day, can't coach anymore, or had a stroke close to the goal line. There was no need to rush, especially with an inexperienced QB, and they missed a golden opportunity to go to 3-0. If the Giants played like they did in the 2nd half all the time, they could be good but this looks like a lost cause. So after this game, are the Redskins contenders or pretenders? Ken Moll has the answer:
"I tend to believe that they are Pretenders as they just don't have enough continutiy yet on either side of the ball. "
I tend to believe that you're right.
- It was pretty bad in the 2nd half for the Bears. Grossman was awful, they lost defensive players to injuries, and they got their behinds handed to them by Dallas, who were firing on all cylinders again. They realized that the run wasn't working, so they chucked it. I like to call it anti-Charger technology, but it applied to Chicago as well. You think Mike Martz saw this game and had a sick, sadistic smile on his face? You know he did.
- The Saints have crumbled. Drew Brees is not a good QB when he has to throw too many times, and he may have to now that Deuce McAllister is out for the year. They tried to make all the big plays instead of using a power running game more. ESPN analyst Mark Schlereth described the Saints offense as "Too much icing, not enough cake." I could not have said it better myself and gotten hungry at the same time. The Titans were also hungry, as Keith Bullock had 3 picks, controlled the clock, and allowed VY to manage the game well. Tennessee could be this year's Saints, and I gotta go grab some cake.
- Two surprises hit the first game of the week, Green Bay's great 3-0 start led by a stout defense and a good ball moving offense led by 420 TD passer Brett Favre who led a furious comeback ending in a Greg Jennings score. Then there are the 1-2 Chargers who can't seem to get LaDanian Tomlinson in any kind of rhythm, and he fought on the sideline with Phil Rivers to boot, who played catch well with Gates until the final drive where Nick Barnett picked him off to seal the deal. The big question is how much do the Bolts miss Marty Schottenheimer. Considering their 14-2 mark last year and their current status, I'd say a whole hell of a lot. A trend is starting for the Chargers that no team will run on them because they're just awful against the pass. New England was first to exploit this, and then Green Bay only ran the ball 13 times compared to throwing it 45 times. A 3-1 pass-run ratio should probably clue Ron Rivera in that the pass coverage is costing them games, and more trouble will arise if the problem can't be quelled.
- What wasn't a surprise was how the Vikings offense disappeared in the 2nd half against Kansas City, which allowed the Chiefs to come back and take Minnesota 13-10. Larry Johnson can't for the life of him get it going on offense, but still won despite a ghastly 1.6 yards per rushing attempt. That's because Damon Huard stepped up and threw for a high percentage (20/29) including the game winning strike to emerging rookie Dwayne Bowe. The Chiefs were also a decent 6/15 on 3rd downs and just got by with a win.
- New England may have gotten down early in the game, but was there realy a doubt to this outcome? JP Losman got hurt and was replaced by rookie Trent Edwards, who may have a better chance at leading this Buffalo team than Losman. I don't care if Marshawn Lynch played like Barry Sanders, your team can't win with 83 total passing yards. This team's in trouble, and it may be a good time to give Edwards a chance. I may not be a Stanford man like Edwards was, but I know enough to realize that the Bills are going nowhere. Tom Brady was magnificent, only throwing 6 incompletions and averaging over 10 yards per attempt. Maroney broke 100 on less then 20 carries, and were able to get Sammy Morris a good amount of touches to keep the defense honest. It was just like Christmas in April for Brady when the Pats traded for Randy Moss and Wes Welker, as the team has more weapons than a certain visiting Middle Eastern President. 34 minutes with the ball and very good secondary play holding Lee Evans to one reception allowed New England to once again dominate.
- The Jets finally got a win as Thomas Jones and Leon Washington were factors in a win over Miami. New York however, allowed the Dolphins to come back in the 4th after Gang Green seemingly put the game away at 31-13. Trent Green performed very well, and Ronnie Brown accounted for over 200 yards total offense and 3 scored. Chris Chambers continues to play well also. Matt Williamson commented on the Miami offense and the two teams in general:
"They did (a nice job on offense) and R Brown had a real big game. Still, I thought that was a close game between two pretty bad teams with poor talent in the trenches."
- With ugly jerseys and high scores, I thought that the Arena League came a bit early to the Linc, but that was Donovan McNabb coming up with a huge game to silence his critics and hooking up with Kevin Curtis to the tune of 42 first half points in a huge win over a Lions defense that got more scorched than the Russian soil during the Napoleonic Era. Westbrook also had a monster game, as did Kitna and Williams for Detroit. Can the Eagles attack perform even half as well against the Giants next week? But back to the jerseys, were those the ugliest duds ever worn in a game, Matt Williamson?
"Not sure on that one, but those Eagles' throwbacks really made my head hurt."
The Philly offense made my head spin, and may have given a migraine or two to the Lions staff.
- Is it just me, or is Pittsburgh making it look easy? Mike Tomlin did a tremendous job opening up the offense, Willie Parker was a beast, and the defense and special teams each had a TD. If a Steelers fan can't smile about that, his mouth must be wired shut. Alex Smith looked puzzled in the 4th quarter, and Frank Gore couldn't really get anything going. The 49ers shouldn't be discouraged though, they were flat out beat by a black and gold machine.
- Perhaps one discouraged team should be the Rams. Bulger has bad ribs, the offensive line is a MASH unit, Steven Jackson will miss at least a week, and you're 0-3. Tampa Bay got great running games from Michael Pittman and the unlikely Earnest Graham who scored 2 TD's in the 4th to seal the deal. Are the Bucs for real? There has been a recent trend over the years of cellar dwellers winning the NFC South the next year, you never know in this division.
- Ken Whisenhunt went back to college on Sunday, putting Kurt Warner in on no huddle situations and leading a furious comeback that almost materialized against Baltimore. The coach obviously knows what works against the Ravens D from his years at Pittsburgh, but what does it say about Matt Leinart, when he was yanked twice during the contest? The plan is fantastic in a vacuum, but not when emotions and confidence levels are put into the equation. The McNoller QB combo did well for Baltimore, but not as well as Willis McGahee or Anquan Boldin, who lit up the B'More back 4. Ken Moll talked about the Ravens chances this season:
"They have a chance if they can continue to play solid defense. I Know the Cardinals came back but Lewis and the Boys are excellent and they have a chance to be a wild card team. Steelers win the division if they continue to play (well)."
- You almost feel that the Colts never feel that they're going to lose, despite the close results of the games they play. Their special teams allowed another kickoff return to the house to open the game, but Manning and co never panicked, and Addai ran for 2 scores. Schaub played decently, but you can't expect him to do it all himself. The Texans had 40 total rushing yards, and that's why they lost. Unacceptable!
- If you wanna talk about a team dominating the line of scrimmage, you'll talk about what Jacksonville did to Denver on Sunday. The Jags had the ball for almost 39 minutes, rushed the ball 47 times at exactly 4 yards a rush, and held the Broncos to 47 yards rushing. The only reason why Denver was in the game was because of Brandon Marshall, who had a monster game. The Denver rush D needs to perform better or this team won't be reaching the postseason.
- What goes around comes around, right Raiders? The timeout that doomed them against Denver, saved them in a tight one against Cleveland? If this timeout thing is some sort of chain, then the Ravens should watch out next week. McCown and co started off with a 16-0 lead, and then the Browns came storming back with special teams and good days from Winslow and Edwards. But both teams aren't that good, and a time out was the difference. It looks like ice is hot, especially with the game on the line.
- The Bengals converted 11 times on 18 3rd downs and lost, because they turned the ball over 4 times. Rudi Johnson had 17 carries for 9 yards, and Seattle was able to escape with a win because nobody decided to cover Nate Burleson. Alexander had a nice game, and it looks like the Seahawks are back on track.
- If the Falcons still can't win when Joey Harrington has a monster day, I don't know when they'll get a victory. Foster played well to help out a team that had to change QB's because of an injury, and the Falcons are incredibly pathetic. I don't want to get cursed out like a Cubs fan did to me yesterday, so I'll stop here. I'll just say that the Falcons will be on the clock in April.
- The Giants knew that they're season was on the line, and they responded in the 2nd half. Tom Coughlin hasn't lost his team yet, and the Redskins have finally gone back down to earth where they belong. In the 4th quarter, either Joe Gibbs forgot how to coach, had a bad day, can't coach anymore, or had a stroke close to the goal line. There was no need to rush, especially with an inexperienced QB, and they missed a golden opportunity to go to 3-0. If the Giants played like they did in the 2nd half all the time, they could be good but this looks like a lost cause. So after this game, are the Redskins contenders or pretenders? Ken Moll has the answer:
"I tend to believe that they are Pretenders as they just don't have enough continutiy yet on either side of the ball. "
I tend to believe that you're right.
- It was pretty bad in the 2nd half for the Bears. Grossman was awful, they lost defensive players to injuries, and they got their behinds handed to them by Dallas, who were firing on all cylinders again. They realized that the run wasn't working, so they chucked it. I like to call it anti-Charger technology, but it applied to Chicago as well. You think Mike Martz saw this game and had a sick, sadistic smile on his face? You know he did.
- The Saints have crumbled. Drew Brees is not a good QB when he has to throw too many times, and he may have to now that Deuce McAllister is out for the year. They tried to make all the big plays instead of using a power running game more. ESPN analyst Mark Schlereth described the Saints offense as "Too much icing, not enough cake." I could not have said it better myself and gotten hungry at the same time. The Titans were also hungry, as Keith Bullock had 3 picks, controlled the clock, and allowed VY to manage the game well. Tennessee could be this year's Saints, and I gotta go grab some cake.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
NFL Daily Presents- The SOS Week 2 ATS Picks
10-6 is respectable for week 1, but I expect better from myself from here on out.
- Let's use some logic here, shall we. If Cleveland couldn't stop the offense of the Steelers, then they most likely won't be able to stop the vaunted Bengals attack. Though I think Winslow and Edwards could have nice games for the Browns, they don't really have a QB to keep them in the game. Carson Palmer and co. should run wild like stallions in the open field. As beautiful and poetic as that sounds, the result will be just about the opposite for Cleveland. 4.5 is a giveaway for Cincy, and I'll gladly accept. Don't be surprised if Mr. Quinn makes an appearance in the 4th.
- Something tells me that the Titans offense won't rush for 275 yards for a 2nd consecutive week. Just a hunch. And just like Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne stuck it to former Indy starter Jason David last week, they get to do the exact same thing to 2006 Colts starting corner Nick Harper. Peyton Manning still remembers getting upset by Tennessee last year, and revenge will be sweet especially when Bob Sanders gets to VY in the open field. Like Joseph Addai scampering off into the sunset, I'll take the Colts and 7.5 with me to the bank.
- The Niners and Rams is the toughest game of the week in my mind. I've been going back and forth all week, but I believe that the deciding factor in my mind will be that Alex Smith has to go on the road and beat a division opponent. Now that's a tall task for a young QB, and I think that Stephen Jackson will have a nice performance. This game for the Rams offense could be a preview of what's to come for the rest of the season. The young St Louis offensive line will be put to the test to protect Marc Bulger without Orlando Pace. This is a huge game with huge question marks, and the conservative in me will side with the home club, Rams and the 3.5.
- Will the Giants have week 1 stud Eli Manning under center this week against a young and hungry (youngry, just thought of that one) Packers defense? Will it risk further injury to Manning's shoulder, or will it add insult to injury if the team goes to 0-2 with fat camp failure Jared Lorenzen at the helm? These are the questions posed to embattled Giants coach and taskmaster Tom Coughlin against a Green Bay club high off their win over Philly last week. Because of the injuries at RB with Jacobs and Jackson injured on both sides, the contest may turn into an air affair. And when a passing battles ensues, SOS will put his money on the side of the gunslinger Brett Favre. But Cheese Heads should not overlook the talent of Derrick Ward, who will have to be the x-factor if Big Blue wants to even their record. There are too many questions surrounding the Giants for me to side with them, so I'll go with the youngry Packers.
- As impressive as Pittsburgh was last week against the Browns, Buffalo showed me something in defeat last week. They showed me that they can hang with a tough Broncos team and that a 9.5 point spread is inflated like an NBA contract due to the pounding that Pittsburgh put on Cleveland last week. I think that the Bills will hang tough if JP Losman manages the game, and doesn't put out an absolute stinker like he did last week. I'll take Buffalo to cover here.
- If y'all haven't noticed, Tampa Bay's not very good. If you want to jump on the Saints Are Finished Bandwagon, go right ahead. Since I like being correct, I'll stay off of it and point out that the Saints are a lot more then 3.5 points better then the Bucs. That offensive performacne against Indy was a fluke, a one week stroke of utter failure. Don't be fooled by the people who say that New Orleans is in for a down year, Sean Payton will light a fire under their asses and the Saints will romp to victory plus 3.5.
- Carolina-Houston is another interesting game. Matt Schaub impressed me last week, but the Panthers defense did a hell of a job against the Rams O last week. Look for Peppers and Jenkins to have big days with a little Jon Beason on the side. Look for the Carolina running game to continue their good run, and the Panthers should win comfortably plus the 6.5.
- Jacksonville and Atlanta both played really poorly last week, and for some reason I expect the Falcons to cover 10 points. If they can't do that, they'll be the first team on my s-list.
- I'll give Arizona credit for hanging tough with the Niners last week, but Alex Smith was pretty bad and I don't expect Matt Hasslebeck to play that poorly. Alexander will pound the rock, and the new Safety acquisitions of Seattle will pay dividends this week. 'Hawks plus the 3.5.
- I'll take favorites Detroit, Dallas, Denver, Baltimore, Chicago, and New England, and I'll take 'dog Washington to cover the 7.5 against Philly.
- Let's use some logic here, shall we. If Cleveland couldn't stop the offense of the Steelers, then they most likely won't be able to stop the vaunted Bengals attack. Though I think Winslow and Edwards could have nice games for the Browns, they don't really have a QB to keep them in the game. Carson Palmer and co. should run wild like stallions in the open field. As beautiful and poetic as that sounds, the result will be just about the opposite for Cleveland. 4.5 is a giveaway for Cincy, and I'll gladly accept. Don't be surprised if Mr. Quinn makes an appearance in the 4th.
- Something tells me that the Titans offense won't rush for 275 yards for a 2nd consecutive week. Just a hunch. And just like Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne stuck it to former Indy starter Jason David last week, they get to do the exact same thing to 2006 Colts starting corner Nick Harper. Peyton Manning still remembers getting upset by Tennessee last year, and revenge will be sweet especially when Bob Sanders gets to VY in the open field. Like Joseph Addai scampering off into the sunset, I'll take the Colts and 7.5 with me to the bank.
- The Niners and Rams is the toughest game of the week in my mind. I've been going back and forth all week, but I believe that the deciding factor in my mind will be that Alex Smith has to go on the road and beat a division opponent. Now that's a tall task for a young QB, and I think that Stephen Jackson will have a nice performance. This game for the Rams offense could be a preview of what's to come for the rest of the season. The young St Louis offensive line will be put to the test to protect Marc Bulger without Orlando Pace. This is a huge game with huge question marks, and the conservative in me will side with the home club, Rams and the 3.5.
- Will the Giants have week 1 stud Eli Manning under center this week against a young and hungry (youngry, just thought of that one) Packers defense? Will it risk further injury to Manning's shoulder, or will it add insult to injury if the team goes to 0-2 with fat camp failure Jared Lorenzen at the helm? These are the questions posed to embattled Giants coach and taskmaster Tom Coughlin against a Green Bay club high off their win over Philly last week. Because of the injuries at RB with Jacobs and Jackson injured on both sides, the contest may turn into an air affair. And when a passing battles ensues, SOS will put his money on the side of the gunslinger Brett Favre. But Cheese Heads should not overlook the talent of Derrick Ward, who will have to be the x-factor if Big Blue wants to even their record. There are too many questions surrounding the Giants for me to side with them, so I'll go with the youngry Packers.
- As impressive as Pittsburgh was last week against the Browns, Buffalo showed me something in defeat last week. They showed me that they can hang with a tough Broncos team and that a 9.5 point spread is inflated like an NBA contract due to the pounding that Pittsburgh put on Cleveland last week. I think that the Bills will hang tough if JP Losman manages the game, and doesn't put out an absolute stinker like he did last week. I'll take Buffalo to cover here.
- If y'all haven't noticed, Tampa Bay's not very good. If you want to jump on the Saints Are Finished Bandwagon, go right ahead. Since I like being correct, I'll stay off of it and point out that the Saints are a lot more then 3.5 points better then the Bucs. That offensive performacne against Indy was a fluke, a one week stroke of utter failure. Don't be fooled by the people who say that New Orleans is in for a down year, Sean Payton will light a fire under their asses and the Saints will romp to victory plus 3.5.
- Carolina-Houston is another interesting game. Matt Schaub impressed me last week, but the Panthers defense did a hell of a job against the Rams O last week. Look for Peppers and Jenkins to have big days with a little Jon Beason on the side. Look for the Carolina running game to continue their good run, and the Panthers should win comfortably plus the 6.5.
- Jacksonville and Atlanta both played really poorly last week, and for some reason I expect the Falcons to cover 10 points. If they can't do that, they'll be the first team on my s-list.
- I'll give Arizona credit for hanging tough with the Niners last week, but Alex Smith was pretty bad and I don't expect Matt Hasslebeck to play that poorly. Alexander will pound the rock, and the new Safety acquisitions of Seattle will pay dividends this week. 'Hawks plus the 3.5.
- I'll take favorites Detroit, Dallas, Denver, Baltimore, Chicago, and New England, and I'll take 'dog Washington to cover the 7.5 against Philly.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
NFL Daily Presents: Latest League Injury Update
Team by team, the latest updates and how it will change your teams, real and fantasy.
Injury Update
- 1st round pick Alan Branch will be out for Arizona with a broken hand. DT Ross Kolodziej will be out, and OL Nick Leckey will be probable for Monday.
- Atlanta as of Friday: Crocker and Coleman are out, Grady Jackson questionable, and Alge Crumpler probable.
- Big question marks for Baltimore. Jonathan Ogden will be a game time decision, Trevor Price is questionable, as is LB Antwan Barnes.
- For Buffalo, Ryan Denney is out until after their bye.
- Carolina S Nate Salley is out. Starting CB Chris Gamble is questionable as is Stanley McClover. Jason Kyle is probable.
- As of Friday, Greg Olson is questionable, Mushin Muhhamad is probable.
- TJ Houshmanzadeh has been upgraded to probable, Shayne Graham is probable, Willie Anderson is questionable, and Antonio Chatman is out.
- Punter Dave Zastudil and Willie McGinest are both out for Cleveland.
- Terry Glenn is out for Dallas as is Greg Ellis, and both Terrence Newman and Kevin Burnett will be game time decisions.
- Travis Henry is probable for Denver.
- Greg Jennings is questionable and Donald Driver is probable for Green Bay. Vernand Morency is questionable, everyone else including Aaron Kampman is probable.
- Reggie Heyward is probable for the Jaguars.
- Ted Ginn and Joey Porter are both probable for Miami.
- Michael Doss is out for the Vikings, Ferguson, Tank Williams, and Ciurciu are questionable. Bobby Wade and EJ Henderson are probable.
- Thomas, Wright, and Baker are all out for New England, Asante Samuel will play. Tom Brady is probable.
- Michael Strahan will play about 20 snaps tonight, Will Demps is on IR, and Madison and Burress will likely play.
- Andre Dyson is listed as probable, but may not play for the Jets. Thomas Jones will play according to Sal Paolantonio. Tim Dwight is out.
- JaMarcus Russell will be out, he's not under contract.
- LJ Smith is questionable and AJ Feely is probable for the Eagles. Andrews and Kearse are probable.
- Michael Turner is probable for the Chargers.
- Dashon Goldson is out for the 49ers, Donals Strickland will be a game time decision. Darrell Jakcson is probable.
- Ben Obamanu is doubtful for Seattle.
- Bennett, Incognito, and Adeyanju are questionable, Atogwe is probable for the Rams.
- Casey Cramer doubtful for the Titans, Kevin Mawae is questionable.
Enjoy Football!
Injury Update
- 1st round pick Alan Branch will be out for Arizona with a broken hand. DT Ross Kolodziej will be out, and OL Nick Leckey will be probable for Monday.
- Atlanta as of Friday: Crocker and Coleman are out, Grady Jackson questionable, and Alge Crumpler probable.
- Big question marks for Baltimore. Jonathan Ogden will be a game time decision, Trevor Price is questionable, as is LB Antwan Barnes.
- For Buffalo, Ryan Denney is out until after their bye.
- Carolina S Nate Salley is out. Starting CB Chris Gamble is questionable as is Stanley McClover. Jason Kyle is probable.
- As of Friday, Greg Olson is questionable, Mushin Muhhamad is probable.
- TJ Houshmanzadeh has been upgraded to probable, Shayne Graham is probable, Willie Anderson is questionable, and Antonio Chatman is out.
- Punter Dave Zastudil and Willie McGinest are both out for Cleveland.
- Terry Glenn is out for Dallas as is Greg Ellis, and both Terrence Newman and Kevin Burnett will be game time decisions.
- Travis Henry is probable for Denver.
- Greg Jennings is questionable and Donald Driver is probable for Green Bay. Vernand Morency is questionable, everyone else including Aaron Kampman is probable.
- Reggie Heyward is probable for the Jaguars.
- Ted Ginn and Joey Porter are both probable for Miami.
- Michael Doss is out for the Vikings, Ferguson, Tank Williams, and Ciurciu are questionable. Bobby Wade and EJ Henderson are probable.
- Thomas, Wright, and Baker are all out for New England, Asante Samuel will play. Tom Brady is probable.
- Michael Strahan will play about 20 snaps tonight, Will Demps is on IR, and Madison and Burress will likely play.
- Andre Dyson is listed as probable, but may not play for the Jets. Thomas Jones will play according to Sal Paolantonio. Tim Dwight is out.
- JaMarcus Russell will be out, he's not under contract.
- LJ Smith is questionable and AJ Feely is probable for the Eagles. Andrews and Kearse are probable.
- Michael Turner is probable for the Chargers.
- Dashon Goldson is out for the 49ers, Donals Strickland will be a game time decision. Darrell Jakcson is probable.
- Ben Obamanu is doubtful for Seattle.
- Bennett, Incognito, and Adeyanju are questionable, Atogwe is probable for the Rams.
- Casey Cramer doubtful for the Titans, Kevin Mawae is questionable.
Enjoy Football!
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