Thursday, July 22, 2010
NFL Football Returns
Well folks, it's been a long wait during the offseason but NFL football is back. Preseason officially kicks off on Sunday August 8 with the Hall of Fame game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Dallas Cowboys at Fawcett Stadium.
I will preview this game and all the other preseason games in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.
I will preview this game and all the other preseason games in the coming weeks, so stay tuned.
Labels: 2007 nfl, nfl hall of fame game, nfl mania
Sunday, September 23, 2007
NFL Report
A big weekend of football action...Brett Favre tied Dan Marino's all-time record for career touchdown passes and more:
The New York Giants defence produced a stirring goal-line stand on the final possession of the game and Plaxico Burress caught the go-ahead touchdown to secure a 24-17 victory over the Washington Redskins.
Reuben Droughns had two TDs for New York (1-2), who scored 21 unanswered points after half-time to secure the victory.
The Carolina Panthers recovered from losing quarterback Jake Delhomme through injury to rally behind the running of DeShaun Foster to post a 27-20 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
Matt Hasselbeck tossed a 22-yard touchdown pass to Nate Burleson with just over a minute remaining to lift the Seattle Seahawks to a 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
It was the 17th career fourth-quarter comeback for Hasselbeck, who completed 24-of-37 passes for 248 yards and three touchdowns.
Burleson's touchdown capped a wild fourth quarter in which there were four lead changes.
The Jacksonville Jaguars used both their running game and the clock to edge out the Denver Broncos 23-14 at Invesco Field.
The Jaguars rushed for 186 yards and took up nearly 39 minutes of the clock to pick up the road win.
Tommy Kelly blocked Phil Dawson's 40-yard game-winning field goal attempt as time expired to preserve the Oakland Raiders' 26-24 victory over the Cleveland Browns.
Brett Favre tied Dan Marino's all-time record for career touchdown passes as the surprising Green Bay Packers beat the San Diego Chargers 31-24.
The ageless Favre threw for three scores, giving him 420 in his career to tie Marino's mark.
Favre matched the mark in dramatic fashion, finding Greg Jennings over the middle for a 57-yard score with 2:30 remaining to give the Packers a 24-21 lead.
Linebacker Nick Barnett sealed things by intercepting Philip Rivers and breaking off a 38-yard return to the San Diego two.
Two plays later, Brandon Jackson scored on a one-yard run to make it 31-21 with 59 seconds left.
Joseph Addai rushed for 72 yards and two touchdowns and Peyton Manning threw for 273 yards and one score, leading the Indianapolis Colts to a 30-24 victory over the Houston Texans.
The win left Indianapolis (3-0) in sole possesion of first place in the AFC South.
Tom Brady tied a career high with four touchdown passes as the New England Patriots cruised to a 38-7 victory over the Buffalo Bills at Gillette Stadium.
Acquired from the Oakland Raiders this off-season, Randy Moss hauled in two of Brady's touchdown passes and finished with five receptions for 115 yards.
Tampa Bay held St Louis without a touchdown and kept them winless on the season with a 24-3 victory.
Tampa put together just enough offence, getting a pair of fourth-quarter touchdown runs from Earnest Graham, and took advantage of two misses by Rams placekicker Jeff Wilkins to win their second consecutive game.
The Kansas City Chiefs finally showed some signs of life on offence as they beat the Minnesota Vikings 13-10.
The Pittsburgh Steelers used Allen Rossum's 98-yard kick-off return for a touchdown, a punishing ground attack and more strong defense to post a 37-16 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
Donovan McNabb threw for 381 yards and four touchdowns and Brian Westbrook also enjoyed a huge game as the Philadelphia Eagles rolled to a 56-21 victory over the Detroit Lions.
Matt Stover's 46-yard field goal as time expired lifted the Baltimore Ravens to a 26-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.
Stover's kick allowed the Ravens to survive a furious fourth-quarter rally by the Cardinals led by Kurt Warner after Matt Leinart had been benched.
Chad Pennington shook off an ankle injury on his return to the starting lineup and threw for two touchdowns and ran for another as the New York Jets beat the winless Miami Dolphins 31-28 in an AFC East clash.
The New York Giants defence produced a stirring goal-line stand on the final possession of the game and Plaxico Burress caught the go-ahead touchdown to secure a 24-17 victory over the Washington Redskins.
Reuben Droughns had two TDs for New York (1-2), who scored 21 unanswered points after half-time to secure the victory.
The Carolina Panthers recovered from losing quarterback Jake Delhomme through injury to rally behind the running of DeShaun Foster to post a 27-20 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
Matt Hasselbeck tossed a 22-yard touchdown pass to Nate Burleson with just over a minute remaining to lift the Seattle Seahawks to a 24-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
It was the 17th career fourth-quarter comeback for Hasselbeck, who completed 24-of-37 passes for 248 yards and three touchdowns.
Burleson's touchdown capped a wild fourth quarter in which there were four lead changes.
The Jacksonville Jaguars used both their running game and the clock to edge out the Denver Broncos 23-14 at Invesco Field.
The Jaguars rushed for 186 yards and took up nearly 39 minutes of the clock to pick up the road win.
Tommy Kelly blocked Phil Dawson's 40-yard game-winning field goal attempt as time expired to preserve the Oakland Raiders' 26-24 victory over the Cleveland Browns.
Brett Favre tied Dan Marino's all-time record for career touchdown passes as the surprising Green Bay Packers beat the San Diego Chargers 31-24.
The ageless Favre threw for three scores, giving him 420 in his career to tie Marino's mark.
Favre matched the mark in dramatic fashion, finding Greg Jennings over the middle for a 57-yard score with 2:30 remaining to give the Packers a 24-21 lead.
Linebacker Nick Barnett sealed things by intercepting Philip Rivers and breaking off a 38-yard return to the San Diego two.
Two plays later, Brandon Jackson scored on a one-yard run to make it 31-21 with 59 seconds left.
Joseph Addai rushed for 72 yards and two touchdowns and Peyton Manning threw for 273 yards and one score, leading the Indianapolis Colts to a 30-24 victory over the Houston Texans.
The win left Indianapolis (3-0) in sole possesion of first place in the AFC South.
Tom Brady tied a career high with four touchdown passes as the New England Patriots cruised to a 38-7 victory over the Buffalo Bills at Gillette Stadium.
Acquired from the Oakland Raiders this off-season, Randy Moss hauled in two of Brady's touchdown passes and finished with five receptions for 115 yards.
Tampa Bay held St Louis without a touchdown and kept them winless on the season with a 24-3 victory.
Tampa put together just enough offence, getting a pair of fourth-quarter touchdown runs from Earnest Graham, and took advantage of two misses by Rams placekicker Jeff Wilkins to win their second consecutive game.
The Kansas City Chiefs finally showed some signs of life on offence as they beat the Minnesota Vikings 13-10.
The Pittsburgh Steelers used Allen Rossum's 98-yard kick-off return for a touchdown, a punishing ground attack and more strong defense to post a 37-16 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
Donovan McNabb threw for 381 yards and four touchdowns and Brian Westbrook also enjoyed a huge game as the Philadelphia Eagles rolled to a 56-21 victory over the Detroit Lions.
Matt Stover's 46-yard field goal as time expired lifted the Baltimore Ravens to a 26-23 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.
Stover's kick allowed the Ravens to survive a furious fourth-quarter rally by the Cardinals led by Kurt Warner after Matt Leinart had been benched.
Chad Pennington shook off an ankle injury on his return to the starting lineup and threw for two touchdowns and ran for another as the New York Jets beat the winless Miami Dolphins 31-28 in an AFC East clash.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
NFL Season Preview
It seems like every year at this time I read Season Previews from the "experts" and I always seem to disagree with them and wonder how they could be so stupid. After that, I talk about how I can't wait to go back and look at their picks after the season ends and make fun of them. Then, four days later I've completely forgotten about the entire thing and I never go back and check their predictions to see how they did.
Well, I've decided this year is different. This year, I am rolling out my First Annual NFL Season Preview. Will there even be a Second Annual Season Preview? Probably not. So let's celebrate my first/last/only crack at projecting records for all 32 (I counted them) NFL teams, so that in 6 months we can come back, measure my ineptitude, and make fun of me for spending countless hours actually putting this together.
Before we move into the predictions, I would like to take a second to tell you how they were done. I actually went through the NFL Schedule, week by week, and "played" every game, keeping track of win-loss records. In order to keep some dignity, I will not inform you that I did this three times to make sure I was being consistent. I believe it was some time during my second "season" where my girlfriend walked in, looked at the stacks of books, magazines, papers, and the two computers on my desk, rolled her eyes, made a semi-audible comment about "playing imaginary football games" and walked out. To the best of my knowledge we are still dating.
On to the standings, presented in tiered-order...
Division Champs
New England (12-4)
They were a second half collapse away from the SuperBowl last year, so what did they do in the off-season? Completely reloaded and are now the runaway favorite in the NFL for this season. I don't even have anything else to add except that between the Patriots, the Red Sox, and now the Celtics adding Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, if I ever hear a Boston resident complain about ANYTHING, I am ambushing him with a sock full of pennies. By the way, this team almost went to the SuperBowl last year with Reche' Caldwell as their top receiver. This is very surprising, especially since Reche' Caldwell is terrible. Actually, Reche' Caldwell was so surprised at finding out he was a team's top WR, that his face is permanently stuck like this.
Baltimore (11-5)
I'm big on the Ravens this year. They were dominant at times last year, and if their offense doesn't crap the bed (at home) against the Colts last year they are in the AFC Championship. I think adding McGahee will be a big plus for them, and they also added some offensive line help. Even though they lost Adalius Thomas, they still have THREE linebackers who were named to the Pro Bowl last season. As of right now, I say Baltimore plays New England in the AFC Championship Game.
Indianapolis (11-5)
Has a team every looked more complacent after winning a SuperBowl? How do you just let your entire defense walk away after winning a ring? Jason David, Nick Harper, Cato June, Mike Doss, and Montae Reagor all left. Unless Peyton Manning is going to somehow play defense, they could be in trouble.
San Diego (11-5)
They went 14-2 and fired their head coach. That is not a typo. However, I almost agree with it because they are sending the message that they are not just settling for successful regular seasons. Marty Schottenheimer proved time and time again that he was a good enough coach to get you to the postseason, but not good enough to do anything while he was there. I think Tomlinson's numbers will drop, but look for Phillip Rivers' numbers to increase.
New Orleans (11-5)
I promised myself to not put them higher than 10-6, but then I said screw it and actually had them at 12-4 after one of my projections. I think they're fine right here though. The defense should be improved, and if the light bulb has gone on for Mr. Bush, well, a lot of defenses could be in trouble this year. I do think the NFC South will be a lot tougher division than some people are predicting, though.
Philadelphia (10-6)
I was going to put an asterisk after this prediction because if Donovan McNabb's knee cap explodes during week 5 then all bets are off. If he stays healthy I think they are as dangerous as any team in the NFC. You do have to hand it to Andy Reid, he puts a very good team on the field year after year. With exception of 2005 (the T.O./McNabb fiasco), the Eagles have made the playoffs and won at least 10 games every year since 2000.
Chicago (10-6)
The Bears make me want to throw up. No comments for them. Hopefully Lance Briggs doesn't get mad at this and try to run a Ferrari over me.Then flee the scene. Then report it stolen. Then say there was no alcohol involved.
St. Louis (9-7)
This division was extremely hard to pick. Especially since Seattle is always solid and San Francisco is on the rise as well. In the end, I gave the Rams the nod because I think adding Adam Carriker will help out with their run defense, and I think Stephen Jackson is the biggest difference maker in the division.
Wild Cards
Denver 11-5
I almost had them topping San Diego for the division and then I changed my mind. Even though they have the same record, I'm giving the tie-breaker to the Chargers, largely due to Denver starting a young, inexperienced QB. I think Travis Henry is going to be a huge addition for them if he can stay healthy and avoid jail time by continuing to pay child support to 9 different women. Losing Ebeneezer Ekuban was a blow, but since they added Jarvis Moss in the draft I believe they will be fine at DE. Adding Dre' Bly to play opposite Champ Bailey won't hurt either. Also, we should all know better than to underestimate how much devastation (Darrent Williams, Damien Nash) can help a team pull together.
Jacksonville (10-6)
Ah, my first sleeper of the day. Do you realize that even with all the Byron Leftwich commotion, they still went 8-8 last year, and that includes two losses to the Texans? If they beat the Texans, like they should have, they're 10-6 (I did the math). Giving the reigns to Garrard and finally getting Leftwich out of the picture will be a boost to the offense. Also, all those young receivers they have are entering years 2, 3, or 4, and that's usually when the light goes on for WRs.
Carolina (10-6)
The only question mark on this team is Jake Delhomme, and now that there is a competent back up, I think he'll step up his play. They have two good RBs to platoon with, and adding Dwayne Jarrett alongside Steve Smith is a good move as well. I thought Carolina had a really good draft, also adding Jon Beason, Charles Johnson, and Ryan Kalil, in addition to the before mentioned Jarrett. If they get consistent QB play, Carolina will be dangerous.
Seattle (8-8)
If Shaun Alexander is back in his usual form, they could be a team to be reckoned with. Let's not forget that last year they went to Chicago in the playoffs and basically had the Bears all but beat. That would have made the NFC Championship game in New Orleans. And now I'm mad at Seattle so I'm done with their preview. (I had hotel reservations and everything. I'm so mad right now.) [Seriously, I'm so aggravated I keep coming back to their stupid preview just to add stuff.]
Just Missed Out
Pittsburgh (10-6)
I think they'll have a good season and fall just short of postseason play. I think Roethlisberger will have a better year than last year and I look for Willie Parker to duplicated last year's rushing numbers. Also look for Santonio Holmes to have a break-out season. Did you realized that over the last 8 weeks of the season he had over 600 yards receiving? I also thought they had a very good draft, taking Lawrence Timmons to replace Joey Porter, and then adding LaMarr Woodley in the second round.
New York Jets (9-7)
While I think the Jets will be a good team this year, I think they will come up just short. I like adding Thomas Jones, and I think Darrelle Revis is going to be a stud one day, but I don't think they did enough to address one of their weakest areas: run defense. The Jets gave up an average of 4.9 yards per carry last year. In 16 games last year, the Jets held only two RBs under their season rushing average. I still think they will be solid, but I don't see them making the playoffs. While we're here, is watching Jets fans on Draft Day not one of the funnest things ever? However, I can relate because I acted in a similar manner in 2003 when the Saints traded up to the 6th pick, only to watch Tagliabue announce that we were selected some clown instead of Marcus Trufant. However, while I was correct on that pick, I was also upset when they selected Jammal Brown instead of Derrick Johnson. At the time I claimed that I should be the GM for the Saints. The Lesson: I shouldn't be the GM for the Saints.
Cincinnati (9-7)
9-7 is also the hours of night/early morning you should keep your doors locked if you live near a Bengals' player's home. While I like this team, they just have no defense. They are the 2004 Colts. Minus Peyton. Not a good combination. Though they are perceived as one of the better teams in the AFC, they have made the playoffs exactly once in the last 16 years.
Washington (8-8)
I think they'll be improved from last year. I still can't believe they beat the Saints in the Superdome, but I actually think that game worked in the Saints favor. They were dominant the next week and the rest is history. While we're talking about them, was anybody more impressive running the ball the second half of last season than Ladell Betts? And the thing that kills me is that during his 5 consecutive 100 yard games streak, he signed an extension to stay with the team. He would have been a free agent! He could have gone to Green Bay or New York and signed a big deal. Instead, he'll stay in Washington for less money to be a backup. Wow.
Detroit (8-8)
I see them much improved from a year ago, but not as much as Jon Kitna thinks (he has openly predicted 10 wins). You would think at some point he would look in the mirror or somebody would call him by his name and that would remind him that he is Jon Kitna, but I guess not. I will, however, make a prediction that he leads the NFL in passing yardage. He threw for over 4,200 yards last year. Add Calvin Johnson and now he's in Year 2 under Mike Martz so I think we'll see an increase in his production. While we're talking about Mike Martz, do you think he out thinks himself in other facets of life just like he does in football? For example if he's standing at a drink machine that costs a dollar, does he drive around town instead looking for the Wal-Mart Sam's Choice drink machine to try and save 25 cents?
Tampa Bay (8-8)
Obviously I think they'll be better than last year's team. I think adding Garcia helps out A LOT. While he isn't Drew Brees, he's not Bruce Gradkowski either. He will open up their offense and that will enable more production from Cadillac as well. I also liked some moves they made on defense, drafting Gaines Adams and signing Cato June in free agency.
San Francisco (8-8)
Despite the moves they made in the offseason, I still think they will come up short. They're in a pretty tough division with Seattle and St. Louis, and if Frank Gore remembers that he is Frank Gore and tears/breaks his (insert body part here), then their season is over. Frank Gore is Fred Taylor version 2.0.
Houston (8-8)
I almost put them at 16-0 just for karma reasons and to thank them for drafting some man named after an Italian plumber in last year's draft. Too bad Mario Williams can't eat mushrooms to grow taller or throw fireballs like the other Mario though, then he may have been worth passing on Bush. Well, on second thought, nah.
Not Quite There Yet
Dallas (7-9)
I'm not a huge Romo fan and I think he has an average year at best. I also think T.O. is getting old and that Julius Jones will no longer be a Cowboy after this season. I also don't think I'd trust a guy named Wade to run a lemonade stand, much less a professional football team. It's just not a name that demands respect. Which sounds more likely to happen: "Hey Wade, great game. You guys just won the SuperBowl!" or "Hey Wade, you forgot to put pickles on my hamburger, you idiot!" Thought so.
Green Bay (7-9)
Yes they finished 8-8 last year with 4 straight wins, but 2 of those wins were against the Lions and Vikings, plus the final win was against the Bears in a game that meant nothing to Chicago. While I don't think losing Ahman Green will kill them, he did have over 1,400 total yards of offense.
Buffalo (6-10)
I was definitely surprised when Buffalo didn't win more games than this in my "seasons." I think they will be a team that is improved from last year, and I think Losman is starting to come into his own. However, it's hard to win when you play New England twice, New York twice, Denver, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Cincinnati, Jacksonville and Philadelphia.
Oakland (6-10)
If you were to give a one sentence summary of Oakland last season, it would look like this: They signed Aaron Brooks and hired a guy away from running a bed and breakfast to coach him. How does that translate into this season? No where to go but up.
New York Giants (6-10)
They will go 6-10 this year and they will still play numerous prime time games and will still be talked about on ESPN constantly. This drives me insane. The only reason the Giants exist is so that ESPN has something to talk about when the Yankees and Red Sox are not playing. Heaven forbid they are ever a good team and win some games. That's the day we'll see the launch of ESPN 7: All Giants, All The Time
Not Even Close
Miami (5-11)
Quarterback? What? Why would we draft a quarterback? That makes no sense. What this team needs is a wide receiver with questionable wide receiver skills who can return the occasional kickoff or punt for a touchdown.
Cleveland (5-11)
Hey remember a few years ago when Jamal Lewis ran for like 500 yards against us? Yeah. Well, he's a free agent now. He'd be a great addition! So what if since then he's gone to jail and has been a shell of the player he once was! Also, I don't think it should be a red flag to us that his old team is our division rival, knows we are interested, and still has not made him an offer. Those guys are such idiots!
Side Note: My favorite Jamal Lewis story is when they asked defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau about him, and LeBeau said, "He's a dangerous guy. If he finds a little crack he's gone!" This was shortly after Lewis was arrested for cocaine distribution.
Kansas City (5-11)
Brodie Croyle was recently competing for the starting QB job. Awful team.
Arizona (5-11)
I actually don't think they'll be that dreadful. I thought they made some decent moves in the draft and in the offseason. They will definitely be the weakest team in their division, though.
Side Note: I loved how at the Draft Combine in 2006 Sean Payton asked Leinart, "So what's the deal with your posse?" Just goes to show you how Sean Payton builds a football team.
Tennessee (4-12)
It seems as if all offenses involving Vince Young do one of two things. Either he scrambles, or he makes poor throws and his receivers consistently make incredibly hard circus catches. I wouldn't be surprised at all if in the huddle before plays it sounded like this:
Vince: "Ok (insert name of terrible Titans receiver here), you are this piece of grass (pointing to a piece of grass), do this (moving the grass around with his finger) and I'll get you the ball, (turning to the line) you guys just block or something, (turning to other receivers) y'all just go deep."
Minnesota (4-12)
See: Kansas City and insert Tarvaris Jackson in place of Brodie Croyle.
Atlanta (4-12)
Believe it or not, this is a dream scenario for Bobby Petrino. He doesn't have to put up with Vick, and if Atlanta finishes last he can take his former QB, Brian Brohm. However, if this Vick ordeal has taught us one thing, it's that we can scratch his name off as a possible answer to the Baha Men's famous question of "Who Let The Dogs Out?"
Well, I've decided this year is different. This year, I am rolling out my First Annual NFL Season Preview. Will there even be a Second Annual Season Preview? Probably not. So let's celebrate my first/last/only crack at projecting records for all 32 (I counted them) NFL teams, so that in 6 months we can come back, measure my ineptitude, and make fun of me for spending countless hours actually putting this together.
Before we move into the predictions, I would like to take a second to tell you how they were done. I actually went through the NFL Schedule, week by week, and "played" every game, keeping track of win-loss records. In order to keep some dignity, I will not inform you that I did this three times to make sure I was being consistent. I believe it was some time during my second "season" where my girlfriend walked in, looked at the stacks of books, magazines, papers, and the two computers on my desk, rolled her eyes, made a semi-audible comment about "playing imaginary football games" and walked out. To the best of my knowledge we are still dating.
On to the standings, presented in tiered-order...
Division Champs
New England (12-4)
They were a second half collapse away from the SuperBowl last year, so what did they do in the off-season? Completely reloaded and are now the runaway favorite in the NFL for this season. I don't even have anything else to add except that between the Patriots, the Red Sox, and now the Celtics adding Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, if I ever hear a Boston resident complain about ANYTHING, I am ambushing him with a sock full of pennies. By the way, this team almost went to the SuperBowl last year with Reche' Caldwell as their top receiver. This is very surprising, especially since Reche' Caldwell is terrible. Actually, Reche' Caldwell was so surprised at finding out he was a team's top WR, that his face is permanently stuck like this.
Baltimore (11-5)
I'm big on the Ravens this year. They were dominant at times last year, and if their offense doesn't crap the bed (at home) against the Colts last year they are in the AFC Championship. I think adding McGahee will be a big plus for them, and they also added some offensive line help. Even though they lost Adalius Thomas, they still have THREE linebackers who were named to the Pro Bowl last season. As of right now, I say Baltimore plays New England in the AFC Championship Game.
Indianapolis (11-5)
Has a team every looked more complacent after winning a SuperBowl? How do you just let your entire defense walk away after winning a ring? Jason David, Nick Harper, Cato June, Mike Doss, and Montae Reagor all left. Unless Peyton Manning is going to somehow play defense, they could be in trouble.
San Diego (11-5)
They went 14-2 and fired their head coach. That is not a typo. However, I almost agree with it because they are sending the message that they are not just settling for successful regular seasons. Marty Schottenheimer proved time and time again that he was a good enough coach to get you to the postseason, but not good enough to do anything while he was there. I think Tomlinson's numbers will drop, but look for Phillip Rivers' numbers to increase.
New Orleans (11-5)
I promised myself to not put them higher than 10-6, but then I said screw it and actually had them at 12-4 after one of my projections. I think they're fine right here though. The defense should be improved, and if the light bulb has gone on for Mr. Bush, well, a lot of defenses could be in trouble this year. I do think the NFC South will be a lot tougher division than some people are predicting, though.
Philadelphia (10-6)
I was going to put an asterisk after this prediction because if Donovan McNabb's knee cap explodes during week 5 then all bets are off. If he stays healthy I think they are as dangerous as any team in the NFC. You do have to hand it to Andy Reid, he puts a very good team on the field year after year. With exception of 2005 (the T.O./McNabb fiasco), the Eagles have made the playoffs and won at least 10 games every year since 2000.
Chicago (10-6)
The Bears make me want to throw up. No comments for them. Hopefully Lance Briggs doesn't get mad at this and try to run a Ferrari over me.Then flee the scene. Then report it stolen. Then say there was no alcohol involved.
St. Louis (9-7)
This division was extremely hard to pick. Especially since Seattle is always solid and San Francisco is on the rise as well. In the end, I gave the Rams the nod because I think adding Adam Carriker will help out with their run defense, and I think Stephen Jackson is the biggest difference maker in the division.
Wild Cards
Denver 11-5
I almost had them topping San Diego for the division and then I changed my mind. Even though they have the same record, I'm giving the tie-breaker to the Chargers, largely due to Denver starting a young, inexperienced QB. I think Travis Henry is going to be a huge addition for them if he can stay healthy and avoid jail time by continuing to pay child support to 9 different women. Losing Ebeneezer Ekuban was a blow, but since they added Jarvis Moss in the draft I believe they will be fine at DE. Adding Dre' Bly to play opposite Champ Bailey won't hurt either. Also, we should all know better than to underestimate how much devastation (Darrent Williams, Damien Nash) can help a team pull together.
Jacksonville (10-6)
Ah, my first sleeper of the day. Do you realize that even with all the Byron Leftwich commotion, they still went 8-8 last year, and that includes two losses to the Texans? If they beat the Texans, like they should have, they're 10-6 (I did the math). Giving the reigns to Garrard and finally getting Leftwich out of the picture will be a boost to the offense. Also, all those young receivers they have are entering years 2, 3, or 4, and that's usually when the light goes on for WRs.
Carolina (10-6)
The only question mark on this team is Jake Delhomme, and now that there is a competent back up, I think he'll step up his play. They have two good RBs to platoon with, and adding Dwayne Jarrett alongside Steve Smith is a good move as well. I thought Carolina had a really good draft, also adding Jon Beason, Charles Johnson, and Ryan Kalil, in addition to the before mentioned Jarrett. If they get consistent QB play, Carolina will be dangerous.
Seattle (8-8)
If Shaun Alexander is back in his usual form, they could be a team to be reckoned with. Let's not forget that last year they went to Chicago in the playoffs and basically had the Bears all but beat. That would have made the NFC Championship game in New Orleans. And now I'm mad at Seattle so I'm done with their preview. (I had hotel reservations and everything. I'm so mad right now.) [Seriously, I'm so aggravated I keep coming back to their stupid preview just to add stuff.]
Just Missed Out
Pittsburgh (10-6)
I think they'll have a good season and fall just short of postseason play. I think Roethlisberger will have a better year than last year and I look for Willie Parker to duplicated last year's rushing numbers. Also look for Santonio Holmes to have a break-out season. Did you realized that over the last 8 weeks of the season he had over 600 yards receiving? I also thought they had a very good draft, taking Lawrence Timmons to replace Joey Porter, and then adding LaMarr Woodley in the second round.
New York Jets (9-7)
While I think the Jets will be a good team this year, I think they will come up just short. I like adding Thomas Jones, and I think Darrelle Revis is going to be a stud one day, but I don't think they did enough to address one of their weakest areas: run defense. The Jets gave up an average of 4.9 yards per carry last year. In 16 games last year, the Jets held only two RBs under their season rushing average. I still think they will be solid, but I don't see them making the playoffs. While we're here, is watching Jets fans on Draft Day not one of the funnest things ever? However, I can relate because I acted in a similar manner in 2003 when the Saints traded up to the 6th pick, only to watch Tagliabue announce that we were selected some clown instead of Marcus Trufant. However, while I was correct on that pick, I was also upset when they selected Jammal Brown instead of Derrick Johnson. At the time I claimed that I should be the GM for the Saints. The Lesson: I shouldn't be the GM for the Saints.
Cincinnati (9-7)
9-7 is also the hours of night/early morning you should keep your doors locked if you live near a Bengals' player's home. While I like this team, they just have no defense. They are the 2004 Colts. Minus Peyton. Not a good combination. Though they are perceived as one of the better teams in the AFC, they have made the playoffs exactly once in the last 16 years.
Washington (8-8)
I think they'll be improved from last year. I still can't believe they beat the Saints in the Superdome, but I actually think that game worked in the Saints favor. They were dominant the next week and the rest is history. While we're talking about them, was anybody more impressive running the ball the second half of last season than Ladell Betts? And the thing that kills me is that during his 5 consecutive 100 yard games streak, he signed an extension to stay with the team. He would have been a free agent! He could have gone to Green Bay or New York and signed a big deal. Instead, he'll stay in Washington for less money to be a backup. Wow.
Detroit (8-8)
I see them much improved from a year ago, but not as much as Jon Kitna thinks (he has openly predicted 10 wins). You would think at some point he would look in the mirror or somebody would call him by his name and that would remind him that he is Jon Kitna, but I guess not. I will, however, make a prediction that he leads the NFL in passing yardage. He threw for over 4,200 yards last year. Add Calvin Johnson and now he's in Year 2 under Mike Martz so I think we'll see an increase in his production. While we're talking about Mike Martz, do you think he out thinks himself in other facets of life just like he does in football? For example if he's standing at a drink machine that costs a dollar, does he drive around town instead looking for the Wal-Mart Sam's Choice drink machine to try and save 25 cents?
Tampa Bay (8-8)
Obviously I think they'll be better than last year's team. I think adding Garcia helps out A LOT. While he isn't Drew Brees, he's not Bruce Gradkowski either. He will open up their offense and that will enable more production from Cadillac as well. I also liked some moves they made on defense, drafting Gaines Adams and signing Cato June in free agency.
San Francisco (8-8)
Despite the moves they made in the offseason, I still think they will come up short. They're in a pretty tough division with Seattle and St. Louis, and if Frank Gore remembers that he is Frank Gore and tears/breaks his (insert body part here), then their season is over. Frank Gore is Fred Taylor version 2.0.
Houston (8-8)
I almost put them at 16-0 just for karma reasons and to thank them for drafting some man named after an Italian plumber in last year's draft. Too bad Mario Williams can't eat mushrooms to grow taller or throw fireballs like the other Mario though, then he may have been worth passing on Bush. Well, on second thought, nah.
Not Quite There Yet
Dallas (7-9)
I'm not a huge Romo fan and I think he has an average year at best. I also think T.O. is getting old and that Julius Jones will no longer be a Cowboy after this season. I also don't think I'd trust a guy named Wade to run a lemonade stand, much less a professional football team. It's just not a name that demands respect. Which sounds more likely to happen: "Hey Wade, great game. You guys just won the SuperBowl!" or "Hey Wade, you forgot to put pickles on my hamburger, you idiot!" Thought so.
Green Bay (7-9)
Yes they finished 8-8 last year with 4 straight wins, but 2 of those wins were against the Lions and Vikings, plus the final win was against the Bears in a game that meant nothing to Chicago. While I don't think losing Ahman Green will kill them, he did have over 1,400 total yards of offense.
Buffalo (6-10)
I was definitely surprised when Buffalo didn't win more games than this in my "seasons." I think they will be a team that is improved from last year, and I think Losman is starting to come into his own. However, it's hard to win when you play New England twice, New York twice, Denver, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Cincinnati, Jacksonville and Philadelphia.
Oakland (6-10)
If you were to give a one sentence summary of Oakland last season, it would look like this: They signed Aaron Brooks and hired a guy away from running a bed and breakfast to coach him. How does that translate into this season? No where to go but up.
New York Giants (6-10)
They will go 6-10 this year and they will still play numerous prime time games and will still be talked about on ESPN constantly. This drives me insane. The only reason the Giants exist is so that ESPN has something to talk about when the Yankees and Red Sox are not playing. Heaven forbid they are ever a good team and win some games. That's the day we'll see the launch of ESPN 7: All Giants, All The Time
Not Even Close
Miami (5-11)
Quarterback? What? Why would we draft a quarterback? That makes no sense. What this team needs is a wide receiver with questionable wide receiver skills who can return the occasional kickoff or punt for a touchdown.
Cleveland (5-11)
Hey remember a few years ago when Jamal Lewis ran for like 500 yards against us? Yeah. Well, he's a free agent now. He'd be a great addition! So what if since then he's gone to jail and has been a shell of the player he once was! Also, I don't think it should be a red flag to us that his old team is our division rival, knows we are interested, and still has not made him an offer. Those guys are such idiots!
Side Note: My favorite Jamal Lewis story is when they asked defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau about him, and LeBeau said, "He's a dangerous guy. If he finds a little crack he's gone!" This was shortly after Lewis was arrested for cocaine distribution.
Kansas City (5-11)
Brodie Croyle was recently competing for the starting QB job. Awful team.
Arizona (5-11)
I actually don't think they'll be that dreadful. I thought they made some decent moves in the draft and in the offseason. They will definitely be the weakest team in their division, though.
Side Note: I loved how at the Draft Combine in 2006 Sean Payton asked Leinart, "So what's the deal with your posse?" Just goes to show you how Sean Payton builds a football team.
Tennessee (4-12)
It seems as if all offenses involving Vince Young do one of two things. Either he scrambles, or he makes poor throws and his receivers consistently make incredibly hard circus catches. I wouldn't be surprised at all if in the huddle before plays it sounded like this:
Vince: "Ok (insert name of terrible Titans receiver here), you are this piece of grass (pointing to a piece of grass), do this (moving the grass around with his finger) and I'll get you the ball, (turning to the line) you guys just block or something, (turning to other receivers) y'all just go deep."
Minnesota (4-12)
See: Kansas City and insert Tarvaris Jackson in place of Brodie Croyle.
Atlanta (4-12)
Believe it or not, this is a dream scenario for Bobby Petrino. He doesn't have to put up with Vick, and if Atlanta finishes last he can take his former QB, Brian Brohm. However, if this Vick ordeal has taught us one thing, it's that we can scratch his name off as a possible answer to the Baha Men's famous question of "Who Let The Dogs Out?"
Friday, August 31, 2007
Thankfully preseason comes to a close this weekend
Thankfully preseason comes to a close this weekend. I'll be glad to see the end of these meaningless preseason games this week and get back to some real football games.
It is the fourth and final week of the NFL preseason, and it is likely that everybody is ready to get things rolling. Me too. Preseason is meaningless, and so are my preseason predictions. I have already received some emails regarding last week's picks, which shows the passion that fans really do have. But it is just that. Preseason. It is tough enough to pick the regular season games, let alone ones where most of the regulars hardly even play.
I am ready to take on all comers again this year, and emails with your thoughts and analysis are very welcome. I have taken a lot of playful abuse over the last couple of years, mainly due to jealousy of my football knowledge. That is understandable. However, it is not my fault that I happen to know more than you, and once again it will be proven this year. But that is part of the fun with this column. I will pick four preseason games this week, and then on to the regular season.
As always, home team in CAPS.
NEW ENGLAND 4 New York Giants
It is certainly a plus that Asante Samuel is now signed, but I still have some questions with the Patriots defensive backfield. That might be their only weakness though. They should be ready to roll, at least through the regular season. I am not so sure about the Giants. It looks like Michael Strahan is going to end his "retirement", but I think the Giants' offense is going to be the key, specifically Eli Manning. The Patriots should win this preseason finale though.
Patriots 20-13
MINNESOTA 1 1/2 Dallas
These two teams have a lot of issues, but being in the NFC is going to help. The Vikings just don't have a lot of talent, but their weak division is going to be a factor. As for the Cowboys, I think they are overrated. I think they have issues on offense, defense and coaching. I think their defense will be good, but probably not enough to carry them too far. And new coach Wade Phillips has not had a lot of success, and he has had his share of chances. Still, take the Cowboys here, as they are the better team, preseason or not.
Cowboys 23-17
SAN DIEGO 3 San Francisco
I don't seem to hear a lot of people talking about the Chargers in the AFC, but I think I know why. Norv Turner, plain and simple. He has had very little success as an NFL head coach, but he has so much talent in San Diego it might not matter. The Chargers are going to be a force in the AFC, and could very well go deep into the playoffs this year. The 49ers might well make the playoffs too. Defensive upgrades, a strong offense and mediocre division all play factors in San Francisco. They should be a team to watch. But don't watch them this week.
Chargers 26-14
NEW ORLEANS 1 1/2 Miami
The Saints look to be pretty good this year, and being an NFC team, they could have playoff aspirations. They do have Carolina in their division, which should be their main competition. The Dolphins are a big question mark. An entire new coaching staff, and questionable talent on both sides of the ball. I think Trent Green will help, but not that much. Take the Saints here. Why not?
Saints 20-10
It is the fourth and final week of the NFL preseason, and it is likely that everybody is ready to get things rolling. Me too. Preseason is meaningless, and so are my preseason predictions. I have already received some emails regarding last week's picks, which shows the passion that fans really do have. But it is just that. Preseason. It is tough enough to pick the regular season games, let alone ones where most of the regulars hardly even play.
I am ready to take on all comers again this year, and emails with your thoughts and analysis are very welcome. I have taken a lot of playful abuse over the last couple of years, mainly due to jealousy of my football knowledge. That is understandable. However, it is not my fault that I happen to know more than you, and once again it will be proven this year. But that is part of the fun with this column. I will pick four preseason games this week, and then on to the regular season.
As always, home team in CAPS.
NEW ENGLAND 4 New York Giants
It is certainly a plus that Asante Samuel is now signed, but I still have some questions with the Patriots defensive backfield. That might be their only weakness though. They should be ready to roll, at least through the regular season. I am not so sure about the Giants. It looks like Michael Strahan is going to end his "retirement", but I think the Giants' offense is going to be the key, specifically Eli Manning. The Patriots should win this preseason finale though.
Patriots 20-13
MINNESOTA 1 1/2 Dallas
These two teams have a lot of issues, but being in the NFC is going to help. The Vikings just don't have a lot of talent, but their weak division is going to be a factor. As for the Cowboys, I think they are overrated. I think they have issues on offense, defense and coaching. I think their defense will be good, but probably not enough to carry them too far. And new coach Wade Phillips has not had a lot of success, and he has had his share of chances. Still, take the Cowboys here, as they are the better team, preseason or not.
Cowboys 23-17
SAN DIEGO 3 San Francisco
I don't seem to hear a lot of people talking about the Chargers in the AFC, but I think I know why. Norv Turner, plain and simple. He has had very little success as an NFL head coach, but he has so much talent in San Diego it might not matter. The Chargers are going to be a force in the AFC, and could very well go deep into the playoffs this year. The 49ers might well make the playoffs too. Defensive upgrades, a strong offense and mediocre division all play factors in San Francisco. They should be a team to watch. But don't watch them this week.
Chargers 26-14
NEW ORLEANS 1 1/2 Miami
The Saints look to be pretty good this year, and being an NFC team, they could have playoff aspirations. They do have Carolina in their division, which should be their main competition. The Dolphins are a big question mark. An entire new coaching staff, and questionable talent on both sides of the ball. I think Trent Green will help, but not that much. Take the Saints here. Why not?
Saints 20-10
Labels: 2007 nfl, NFL news, preseason
Thursday, May 24, 2007
NFL No. 1 in Sports World?
Here's an interesting story from the star-telegram.com
NFL flawed and ugly, but it's No. 1 in sports world
"Of all the sports, the NFL continues to amaze in its marketing expertise. How else do you explain building a new billion dollar stadium and charging $900 per ticket for a Super Bowl, while the quality of the product on the field continues to diminish? Fascinating."
That's a bingo for Jim.
Locally, we celebrate this week the coming of a Super Bowl, and rightfully so.
We praise Jerry Jones for delivering on a promise to Arlington voters, and rightfully so.
Meanwhile, Jerry's football team is simply another of the many that is mired in the muck that is the NFL product of today. Blame it on whatever, but start with that combo of salary cap and a loosening of free agency movement.
Still, the NFL product is not close to what it once was, and will never again be there.
Yet, it doesn't matter. Doesn't matter at all in the heart, head and hip pocket of the public, or the almighty TV networks. The money continues to flow like the Trinity River after a good rain. The popularity of the league continues to soar. And nothing else, jock kingdom-wise, even compares. Fascinating, as Jim from Fort Worth noted.
In Vegas, where they will bet on anything, I suggest this new "prop wager" for the sports books:
"Will the Cowboys play in a Super Bowl before Arlington hosts one in 2011?"
Tell me, Cow Sheep, are you willing to put your money where your mouth is? A team that hasn't won a playoff game in more than a decade, a team that hasn't made a Super Bowl appearance since the '95 season, so speak up, Sheepsters. How would you bet?
Then again, does it really matter anymore how good the Cowboys will be next season or beyond? Texas Stadium will still fill up every Sunday, and when the new Boss Hawg Bowl opens in Arlington, fans and sponsors will be shoveling money at Jerry.
That's just the way it is for the NFL product of today. Flawed, and even ugly, but still The One and Only Game, locally and nationally.
By comparison, check out the so-called "competition."
The NBA?
All you need to know about the current status of professional basketball is that, for the first time in forever, two American-born "franchise saviors" are available in the draft next month, which is a good thing.
But then came the tale of the ping-pong balls this week, with a lottery system determining the eventual teams for Kevin Durant and Greg Oden.
One will end up in Portland, and the other in Seattle.
Durant and Oden have now become the "Big Foot" of professional sports. Playing in the Great Northwest, they will be reduced to myths for most of the country.
Another thing about the NBA -- not even those of us who love the game can actually watch the league's current version of the Final Four.
There is boredom in the West, and incompetence in the East.
But I'm sure glad David Stern personally destroyed the NBA's one remaining playoff series for entertainment. It's good to know Stern will enforce a stupid rule. And you are now left with what, Mr. Stern?
The NHL?
Anaheim and Ottawa in the Stanley Cup Finals. Anything else you need to know? (OK, I will watch, but would anyone else like to join me?)
Major League Baseball?
The local view is flawed because of our team. Actually, the game is doing well, nationally, but the shadow of Barry Bonds hangs over baseball, and as long as that's there, the image is smudged.
NASCAR?
I'm hesitant to put this sport in with the others, because even the Sumpin' Blowed (thank you, David Casstevens, for giving me that jewel years ago) crowd will have to admit to slippage in what was once a popularity boom.
Admittedly, however, NASCAR is bigger than the NHL, although I doubt Eddie Gossage will take that as a compliment.
Bottom Line:
We live in an NFL world. Flawed and ugly doesn't matter. The Super Bowl is coming to Arlington. And sorry, but I can't help you score tickets.
Randy Galloway's Galloway & Co. can be heard weekdays 3-6 p.m. on ESPN/103.3 FM.
SUPER COWBOYS?
So what are the Cowboys' chances of playing in Super Bowl XLV at their home stadium? Based on history, zero. A team has never played in its home stadium for a Super Bowl, but four teams have played a Super Bowl in their home state.
Super Bowl XI (Rose Bowl, Pasadena, Calif.)
Oakland 32, Minnesota 14
The Raiders traveled downstate to win their first Super Bowl title before 81 million TV viewers, the largest audience to watch a sporting event at the time.
Super Bowl XIV (Rose Bowl)
Pittsburgh 31, Los Angeles Rams 19
There was no home-field advantage for the Rams, who played their games at Los Angeles Coliseum, about 20 miles away. The Steelers won their fourth Super Bowl behind MVP Terry Bradshaw.
Super Bowl XIX (Stanford Stadium, Palo Alto, Calif.)
San Francisco 38, Miami 16
The 49ers, who played their games at Candlestick Park, did not have to travel far for this rout of the Dolphins. MVP Joe Montana passed for 3 TDs and ran for another.
Super Bowl XXXVII
(Qualcomm Stadium,
San Diego)
Tampa Bay 48, Oakland 21
This time, the Raiders had it handed to them in Southern California as the Bucs' defense intercepted five passes, returning three for touchdowns.
NFL flawed and ugly, but it's No. 1 in sports world
"Of all the sports, the NFL continues to amaze in its marketing expertise. How else do you explain building a new billion dollar stadium and charging $900 per ticket for a Super Bowl, while the quality of the product on the field continues to diminish? Fascinating."
That's a bingo for Jim.
Locally, we celebrate this week the coming of a Super Bowl, and rightfully so.
We praise Jerry Jones for delivering on a promise to Arlington voters, and rightfully so.
Meanwhile, Jerry's football team is simply another of the many that is mired in the muck that is the NFL product of today. Blame it on whatever, but start with that combo of salary cap and a loosening of free agency movement.
Still, the NFL product is not close to what it once was, and will never again be there.
Yet, it doesn't matter. Doesn't matter at all in the heart, head and hip pocket of the public, or the almighty TV networks. The money continues to flow like the Trinity River after a good rain. The popularity of the league continues to soar. And nothing else, jock kingdom-wise, even compares. Fascinating, as Jim from Fort Worth noted.
In Vegas, where they will bet on anything, I suggest this new "prop wager" for the sports books:
"Will the Cowboys play in a Super Bowl before Arlington hosts one in 2011?"
Tell me, Cow Sheep, are you willing to put your money where your mouth is? A team that hasn't won a playoff game in more than a decade, a team that hasn't made a Super Bowl appearance since the '95 season, so speak up, Sheepsters. How would you bet?
Then again, does it really matter anymore how good the Cowboys will be next season or beyond? Texas Stadium will still fill up every Sunday, and when the new Boss Hawg Bowl opens in Arlington, fans and sponsors will be shoveling money at Jerry.
That's just the way it is for the NFL product of today. Flawed, and even ugly, but still The One and Only Game, locally and nationally.
By comparison, check out the so-called "competition."
The NBA?
All you need to know about the current status of professional basketball is that, for the first time in forever, two American-born "franchise saviors" are available in the draft next month, which is a good thing.
But then came the tale of the ping-pong balls this week, with a lottery system determining the eventual teams for Kevin Durant and Greg Oden.
One will end up in Portland, and the other in Seattle.
Durant and Oden have now become the "Big Foot" of professional sports. Playing in the Great Northwest, they will be reduced to myths for most of the country.
Another thing about the NBA -- not even those of us who love the game can actually watch the league's current version of the Final Four.
There is boredom in the West, and incompetence in the East.
But I'm sure glad David Stern personally destroyed the NBA's one remaining playoff series for entertainment. It's good to know Stern will enforce a stupid rule. And you are now left with what, Mr. Stern?
The NHL?
Anaheim and Ottawa in the Stanley Cup Finals. Anything else you need to know? (OK, I will watch, but would anyone else like to join me?)
Major League Baseball?
The local view is flawed because of our team. Actually, the game is doing well, nationally, but the shadow of Barry Bonds hangs over baseball, and as long as that's there, the image is smudged.
NASCAR?
I'm hesitant to put this sport in with the others, because even the Sumpin' Blowed (thank you, David Casstevens, for giving me that jewel years ago) crowd will have to admit to slippage in what was once a popularity boom.
Admittedly, however, NASCAR is bigger than the NHL, although I doubt Eddie Gossage will take that as a compliment.
Bottom Line:
We live in an NFL world. Flawed and ugly doesn't matter. The Super Bowl is coming to Arlington. And sorry, but I can't help you score tickets.
Randy Galloway's Galloway & Co. can be heard weekdays 3-6 p.m. on ESPN/103.3 FM.
SUPER COWBOYS?
So what are the Cowboys' chances of playing in Super Bowl XLV at their home stadium? Based on history, zero. A team has never played in its home stadium for a Super Bowl, but four teams have played a Super Bowl in their home state.
Super Bowl XI (Rose Bowl, Pasadena, Calif.)
Oakland 32, Minnesota 14
The Raiders traveled downstate to win their first Super Bowl title before 81 million TV viewers, the largest audience to watch a sporting event at the time.
Super Bowl XIV (Rose Bowl)
Pittsburgh 31, Los Angeles Rams 19
There was no home-field advantage for the Rams, who played their games at Los Angeles Coliseum, about 20 miles away. The Steelers won their fourth Super Bowl behind MVP Terry Bradshaw.
Super Bowl XIX (Stanford Stadium, Palo Alto, Calif.)
San Francisco 38, Miami 16
The 49ers, who played their games at Candlestick Park, did not have to travel far for this rout of the Dolphins. MVP Joe Montana passed for 3 TDs and ran for another.
Super Bowl XXXVII
(Qualcomm Stadium,
San Diego)
Tampa Bay 48, Oakland 21
This time, the Raiders had it handed to them in Southern California as the Bucs' defense intercepted five passes, returning three for touchdowns.
Labels: 2007 nfl, NFL, NFL news
