2005 NFL Season [Archive] - MacRumors Forums

Applespider

Aug 17, 2005, 07:44 AM

Not much yet since I really don't want to end up massaging T.O.'s ego any more by talking about him. Preaseason hasn't really thrown up anything else of interest so I guess this thread will get resurrected in 3 weeks time with the division winner/playoff picks ;)

One thing that I think might be interesting to watch play out this year is the role of the different positions. With the Vikes trading Moss and the Eagles facing the prospect of playing without T.O. (darn I had to mention him) and the success that the Pats have enjoyed without a true go-to receiver superstar, will this mean if the Vikes/Eagles/Pat enjoy success that the WR position becomes devalued in the salary scale? A little like how the glut of running backs has devalued their free agency value over the last 2 years. I'm sure the QB will always be the highest paid member of the offense but I'm wondering whether the philosophy might shift to a higher proprortion of the cap going to the O-line.

Get a good O-line and your QB has more time to make decisions and throw the ball, your RB has more chance of gaining yards... will they become the new 'must-have in depth' commodity in the NFL?

yellow

Aug 17, 2005, 07:57 AM

Get a good O-line and your QB has more time to make decisions and throw the ball, your RB has more chance of gaining yards... will they become the new 'must-have in depth' commodity in the NFL?

I think they already are, and have been for a while, just some coaches don't quite fully recognize this and since there's a much smaller pool of seriously talented individuals to pull from, they might not invest the time and money into getting the best. Plus since part of the NFL is marketing itself, babies like TO sell more soup to the masses who (might not be that smart) recognize touchdowns are good, over the Matt Turks who the masses don't see any touchdowns from. And probably don't understand the game enough to realize how important all the positions are. Afterall, it's just a buncha fat guys pushing each other around, right? :)

But you're 100% right.

IMO, a good team NEEDS to start at the O-line and the D-line. If you're solid here, the mediocre players at the rest of your positions get a little bit "better". Pressure on and off the ball accounts for a TON.

All that being said, I'm curious what will happen with the Pats this year. The loss of BOTH our offensive and defensive coordinators, who were excellent coaches in their own rights will be a big blow I think. This blow is lessened somewhat by Big Bill's ability to choose other able bodied coaches, and since the defensive scheme comes from his head. But the subtle nuances in motivation and interaction between a coach and a player can make a world of difference. So I'm a little.. "apprehensive" shall we say? But REALLY excited!!

http://www.taipeitimes.com/images/2005/01/04/20050103215157.jpeg

LethalWolfe

Aug 17, 2005, 07:59 AM

TO is annoying, the redskins suck, rex grossman is hurt... sounds like 2004 all over again

You forgot one. The Indianapolis "we only play offense" Colts won't make it to the Super Bowl... again.

Someday, though, the 'Skins will get to the Post Season again. Someday. Hopefully before I die.

Lethal

pivo6

Aug 17, 2005, 08:01 AM

....One thing that I think might be interesting to watch play out this year is the role of the different positions. With the Vikes trading Moss and the Eagles facing the prospect of playing without T.O. (darn I had to mention him) and the success that the Pats have enjoyed without a true go-to receiver superstar, will this mean if the Vikes/Eagles/Pat enjoy success that the WR position becomes devalued in the salary scale? A little like how the glut of running backs has devalued their free agency value over the last 2 years. I'm sure the QB will always be the highest paid member of the offense but I'm wondering whether the philosophy might shift to a higher proprortion of the cap going to the O-line.

Get a good O-line and your QB has more time to make decisions and throw the ball, your RB has more chance of gaining yards... will they become the new 'must-have in depth' commodity in the NFL?

Offensive linemen will never be paid according to its value, because it isn't a glamor position. It's also a position that's doesn't have any meaningful statistics to judge performance.

Running backs have always been a "must-have" commodity in the NFL. I heard somewhere that the average RB's career lasts about 4 years. You can never have enough. Teams win because they can control the ball and play defense.

yellow

Aug 17, 2005, 08:03 AM

pivo6

Aug 17, 2005, 08:05 AM

....All that being said, I'm curious what will happen with the Pats this year. The loss of BOTH our offensive and defensive coordinators, who were excellent coaches in their own rights will be a big blow I think. This blow is lessened somewhat by Big Bill's ability to choose other able bodied coaches, and since the defensive scheme comes from his head. But the subtle nuances in motivation and interaction between a coach and a player can make a world of difference. So I'm a little.. "apprehensive" shall we say? But REALLY excited!!

The Pats will be fine. It's the system that matters. As long as the players believe in playing like a team, and that no one is greater than the team, then they'll be back in the playoffs. If they avoid significant injuries, they will probably make it to the Super Bowl.

mgargan1

Aug 17, 2005, 08:28 AM

IMO, a good team NEEDS to start at the O-line and the D-line. If you're solid here, the mediocre players at the rest of your positions get a little bit "better". Pressure on and off the ball accounts for a TON.

Just look at Dallas's line in the 90's. Amazing line, and one of the best backs in the history of football was the result. I know this is cliche, but can you imagine what Barry Sanders would have done with that line? Emmitt is one of the best because of his patience, and his ability to utilize his line to the fullest extent. And to stay healthy enough to make it to the next game.

yellow

Aug 17, 2005, 08:35 AM

Yup, yup, yup. While I respect ES for what he did and the sheer length of time he did it, IMO, he would have been much less the superstar had he been with a team without that amazing O-Line.

jelloshotsrule

Aug 17, 2005, 08:36 AM

damn, i miss barry sanders... what an amazing talent on an utterly crap team

Sox

Aug 17, 2005, 08:39 AM

I can only hope that this thread does not die the slow death of its cousin, the "2005 Baseball Season."

I'm anxioius to see how Michael Vick: WCOffense Year 2 pans out. I'm always torn on Vick, as I agree that he needs to greatly improve his passing/decision-making, but I don't think it's the right call to do so at the expense of his running game. He's the most explosive athlete in the NFL; it would be a shame to see his greatest gift underutilized. Then again, he could stand to complete a few short passes here and there. The Falcons nearly went to the Super Bowl on Vick's legs, and they certainly could again, especially with that defense.

Something else to keep an eye on is Oakland's Randy Moss Experience. Before Moss reported to training camp, his Raiders jersey has already sold more than any other. He seems happy, joking around, even with the media. Kerry Collins must think he won the lottery. Maybe he did. Finally, Randy Moss is on a team where he is unequivically THE MAN. He's not splitting time with Cris Carter or Daunte Culpepper anymore, and being the true Diva that he is, I think he's going to have his best season ever.

I completely agree with piv and yellow about the Pats. I think they'll be fine. Brady is the smartest most efficient quarterback in the game right now (put down your hand, Peyton) and can certainly run the offense effectively, even without Weis (as Weis himself has attested to). Crennel's replacement (Mike Mangini) has been a Belichick disciple since his days with the Tuna on the Jets staff, so he intuitively understands the scheme. Plus, he's the guy who cobbled together a Super Bowl Champion defensive backfield of Troy Brown, a couple of practice-squad guys, and two blocking sleds. The line to bet against these guys isn't exactly wrapping around the corner.

jelloshotsrule

Aug 17, 2005, 09:15 AM

I can only hope that this thread does not die the slow death of its cousin, the "2005 Baseball Season."

well, to be fair, that thread is about baseball. you know, the sport with... 162 freaking games in a season

anyone think the steelers will have another great season?

yellow

Aug 17, 2005, 09:47 AM

I feel like the Raiders are becoming like the Cowboys.. picking up all the overpriced, overvalued, overthehill refuse the league has to offer.

stubeeef

Aug 17, 2005, 09:51 AM

yellow

Aug 17, 2005, 10:03 AM

Uh-huh. :-)

And if Steve Smith keeps his yap shut. :rolleyes:

But the Panthers are a pretty good team, though I don't know if they're so much underrated as they are overachieving? We'll see.

Dave00

Aug 17, 2005, 02:07 PM

All that being said, I'm curious what will happen with the Pats this year. The loss of BOTH our offensive and defensive coordinators, who were excellent coaches in their own rights will be a big blow I think. This blow is lessened somewhat by Big Bill's ability to choose other able bodied coaches, and since the defensive scheme comes from his head.
Welcome to my world. Year after year after year, Bill Cowher's coaching staff was decimated. It finally took its toll. It's no coincidence that Dick Lebeau's return last year as defensive coordinator was the year of the most wins ever for an AFC team (Steelers). The current head coaches of the Bills, Bengals, Saints, Texans, Colts, and Panthers are all former disciples of Bill Cowher. There are also several offensive & defensive coordinators of other teams that came from Cowher.

The big question for the Patriots will be on offense. Charlie Weis, I think, was a big part of how they made their offensive players interchangeable parts.

I'm hoping the Steelers survive the loss of the right side of their line, and of course that Hines re-signs.

Dave

yellow

Aug 17, 2005, 02:32 PM

mgargan1

Aug 17, 2005, 03:05 PM

I'm sorry, I hate Hines Ward. And that's STRICTLY becuase he's a Pat KILLER! :)

Frankly, I wonder about Bill Cowher.. sometimes he's clearly brilliant, but no matter what he had one consistant MAJOR failing (IMO)..

http://www.askthebrain.com/pics/984/Kordell_Stewart.jpg

(Sorry, I had to choose that one)

Why, oh why, oh why did he stick with him for SO long??

I think it's cause he was one of the first QB's to actually run with the ball pretty well. I could be wrong, but not too many QB's before Kordell ran with it often. Steve Young aside...

Abulia

Aug 17, 2005, 03:59 PM

Ah, the life of a Saints fan…a new season full of promise, doing well, and then a late season utter collapse! Credit them for doing the collapse first in 2004 and keeping it together at the end.

For the most part I take out my frustrations in Madden 06 on my Xbox. I just took out the Panthers last night, 19 to 13 in OT! W00t! :D

Cfg5

Aug 17, 2005, 05:50 PM

My prediction for the 2005 season..

The undervalued tight end position makes a raging comeback as zone defensive schemes get tighter and tighter on wide receivers, and D-Lines/LBs keep a bigger eye on receiving backs.

I think we'll see more 2 TE sets.

To be honest I think tight ends made a huge comeback about 2-3 years ago. There's a ton of good tight ends in the league now, Gates, Gonzalez, Heap, Witten, Johnson, McMicheal, and Shockey just to name a few.

Dave00

Aug 17, 2005, 05:59 PM

Why, oh why, oh why did he stick with him for SO long??
Kordell Stewart was really an enigma. A tremendously gifted athlete, he was durable and strong (routinely ran over DB's when on the run, never got hurt). He had a strong arm, and great footwork. His achilles heel was that he wanted to be a traditional quarterback, and that role just was not using his talents, because he didn't have the capacity to make good decisions that is essential to a traditional quarterback role. He really shot himself in the foot by eschewing the "Slash" role. With Neil O'Donnell as the regular QB and "Slash" in situations, the preparation for the defense was a nightmare. The only reason they didn't win the '96 Superbowl was that Neil O'Donnell (who threw fewer interceptions per pass than any QB in history) went out and laid an egg, tossing easy interceptions on key drives. The offense fell apart after that because Neil O'Donnell wanted more money & left, and Stewart wanted to be a regular quarterback. If that hadn't happened, you might have seen Kordell Stewart have a career more like Hines Ward & Antoine Randle El (both used as "slash"es) and the Steelers probably would've had at least 1 or 2 superbowls in the late 90's.

clayj

Aug 17, 2005, 05:59 PM

OK make way for the Carolina Panthers!

We are finally healthy, at least this week. I think the Pats had better show up for the game of their life on week 2 this year, in Carolina. We should have, and almost did, beat ya in the SuperBowl, and I think we got your number this year! (boy am I out there!)

Anyway, if, and it is a big "IF", we can keep some stars and starters healthy, the under rated Panthers are coming to turn out your lights!! :D :p :cool:Panthers are gonna rock this year. Steve Smith has apparently grown up, so as long as he remains healthy (along with our other starters), the Panthers should do quite well.

BTW, I live about .5 miles from Bank of America Stadium... Yellow, since you live in North Carolina, it's time for you to switch allegiance to your local team. :D

Applespider

Aug 17, 2005, 08:37 PM

Ah, the life of a Saints fan…a new season full of promise, doing well, and then a late season utter collapse!

Yeah...although when the start of the season includes promises like Aaron Brooks forgetting how to line up under center, it could be a long year! :p

EDIT: So it's the rookie. A UK Saints fan sent it to me bemoaning her fate and referencing wrong QB... ah well!

Cfg5

Aug 17, 2005, 09:00 PM

Yeah...although when the start of the season includes promises like Aaron Brooks forgetting how to line up under center, it could be a long year! :p

That's not Aaron Brooks, it's rookie Adrian McPherson.

Dandaman

Aug 17, 2005, 09:02 PM

yellow

Aug 17, 2005, 09:09 PM

BTW, I live about .5 miles from Bank of America Stadium... Yellow, since you live in North Carolina, it's time for you to switch allegiance to your local team. :D

No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, NO!

I'm an AFC man, tried and true. And as a born and bred New Englander, I suffered through a lot of really tough years as a Pats fan. :)

Cfg5

Aug 17, 2005, 09:31 PM

Talking about the saints' utter collapse, I remember that one season after that Cal-like return for a touchdow, the kicker missed the PAT to send the game into OT. Wasn't that game to secure a playoff spot? I don't remember exactly.

So what do people think about the Broncos? You think they'll have enough to beat the Colts this year in the playoffs? The addition of Ian Gold will be great and make the linebacker unit arguably the best in the NFL. I think the season falls on consistency from Plummer and how this new (old Browns) DLine will do. If Plummer drops his INTs and the DLine (now with Pryce) applies enough pressure on the QB, this could be Denver's year again.

daniel

I think the Broncos will take the AFC West this year. People talk alot of **** on Plummer but he actually is pretty good (over 4,000 yds passing and 27 TDs). The only problem is the 20 picks, but hopefully he'll cut down on those. I saw all of those Broncos games last year, and in the games they did win, they were flat out dominant. So expect big things from Denver this year.

Dandaman

Aug 17, 2005, 10:38 PM

I think the Broncos will take the AFC West this year. People talk alot of **** on Plummer but he actually is pretty good (over 4,000 yds passing and 27 TDs). The only problem is the 20 picks, but hopefully he'll cut down on those. I saw all of those Broncos games last year, and in the games they did win, they were flat out dominant. So expect big things from Denver this year.

Yeah, i hope for big things this year. Cfg5, you a bronco fan too?

daniel

Cfg5

Aug 17, 2005, 10:52 PM

Yeah, i hope for big things this year. Cfg5, you a bronco fan too?

daniel

Well, I'm actually a die hard Ravens fan. I get to see 16 Broncos games (I have fsn rocky mountain) so I like them alot too. I might as well like the team that I watch every week.

mikemodena

Aug 17, 2005, 11:00 PM

*sigh* the cowboys will win once again when they ditch the quarterbacks that are about a century past their prime.. and maybe get some new uniforms.. I'm so sick of that white jersey home and away. Even though I live in CT.. My dad brought me up a Cowboy's fan.. and even he deserted us for the Packers when they were sold. Turns out, he started following the boys for their cheerleaders (which have lost it a little too, IMO) but then got me hooked on the team.. and me being a young child in the 90's when they were in their prime led me to following them.. and now to be royally reamed in the :eek: for the new decade.

In the mean time, I like to roll superstar mode on Madden 06, where I'm a SS for the Dolphins. (?!) Drafted by the Chief's.. even worse.. then chose to go with the Dolphins in free agency for $23 mil :D

mgargan1

Aug 17, 2005, 11:29 PM

In the mean time, I like to roll superstar mode on Madden 06, where I'm a SS for the Dolphins. (?!) Drafted by the Chief's.. even worse.. then chose to go with the Dolphins in free agency for $23 mil :D

yea, I got my QB drafted by the dolphins. He just got a contract for 64mil/4 years... :)

Dave00

Aug 18, 2005, 06:44 AM

OK make way for the Carolina Panthers!
Although I feel funny saying this, I really think the Panthers may be the team to beat in the NFC this year. There's a long history of the teams that finish a season strong coming out and dominating the next year. (And a history of teams that start real strong and falter, having a bad year the next year.)

They've got a great coach, and a great defense. And they're in a ho-hum division.

Dave

Dave00

Aug 18, 2005, 06:48 AM

Yeah...although when the start of the season includes promises like Aaron Brooks forgetting how to line up under center, it could be a long year! :p
That picture is just priceless. Wow.

mikemodena

Aug 18, 2005, 09:33 AM

yea, I got my QB drafted by the dolphins. He just got a contract for 64mil/4 years... :)

I found it tough to be a QB... because I suck at picking the right receiver and end up throwing the ball incomplete or INT, and then my guy's stats go down and everyone hates him. I decided to go with what I used to control in Madden 05.. a strong safety. The only SS in the league with 66 sacks :D

stubeeef

Aug 19, 2005, 12:28 AM

ya its pre season, but reigning SB champs lose AT HOME to the 'Aints!

New Orleans 37
New England 27

Da-ohhhh!

mgargan1

Aug 19, 2005, 01:34 AM

ya its pre season, but reigning SB champs lose AT HOME to the 'Aints!

New Orleans 37
New England 27

Da-ohhhh!

pre season means nothing

yellow

Aug 19, 2005, 06:36 AM

ya its pre season, but reigning SB champs lose AT HOME to the 'Aints!

New Orleans 37
New England 27

Da-ohhhh!

Hmmm..

NE starters played 1 quarter.
Aints starters played 3 quarters.

An NFL team's starters could only put up 10 points on a buncha scrubs and rookies? ****ing DOUG FLUTIE!?

Preseason doesn't mean a thing.

Am I going to hear this from you all season long?

stubeeef

Aug 19, 2005, 10:30 AM

Hmmm..

NE starters played 1 quarter.
Aints starters played 3 quarters.

An NFL team's starters could only put up 10 points on a buncha scrubs and rookies? ****ing DOUG FLUTIE!?

Preseason doesn't mean a thing.

Am I going to hear this from you all season long?

I agree it was a non win, win. But knowing how much they hate to lose, and at home, i thought it was interesting.

No, only week 2 when the Panthers Pounch on ya! If clayj has an extra ticket, I'll buy the beer all day long!

yellow

Aug 19, 2005, 10:42 AM

We'll see. :rolleyes:

It should be a good game. I don't expect anyone to be 'pouncing' on anyone. I expect it to be a very close game where mistakes dictate the outcome..

It should be noted that the Pats lost 3 of their 4 preseason games last year, and then went 17-2 in the regular season (including playoffs).

No on likes to loose, but I don't think any (sane) fan would complain about a preseason loss. It's better to get your losses out of the way in the preseason when it doesn't matter and excell during the regular season.

gwuMACaddict

Aug 19, 2005, 10:44 AM

i think it means that the saints are the real deal this year ;) :D

stubeeef

Aug 19, 2005, 10:45 AM

It's better to get your losses out of the way in the preseason when it doesn't matter and excell during the regular season.

Ya, the panthers have won lots of preseason games, like 9 in a row or something, but had a horrible start last year. Was due to injuries, so the preseason has been the only time most have been healthy.

But, I will have my fun D @ mn it! NAAA, NAAA, na, NAAA NAAAAA! :p

Abulia

Aug 19, 2005, 02:19 PM

Talking about the saints' utter collapse, I remember that one season after that Cal-like return for a touchdow, the kicker missed the PAT to send the game into OT. Wasn't that game to secure a playoff spot? I don't remember exactly.Yup. It was pretty amazing. I don't remember who it was against, though.

Yes, the Saints played their starters way longer then they should have last night. Yes, preseason is "meaningless," but still, a win is a win, and hopefully that builds up momentum into the regular season.

Saints fans should not be "all that" for winning…by the same token, Patriots fans shouldn't be so quick to dismiss the loss. (That QB looked horrible!)

yellow

Aug 19, 2005, 02:22 PM

(That QB looked horrible!)

You mean 42 year old Doug Flutie? He just wants to retire a Pat in his native state.

Or do you mean the 3rd stringer, the kid that was a BACKUP in college (who never played) and somehow ended up in the NFL?

Abulia

Aug 19, 2005, 02:23 PM

Played Madden again last night. After being down 13-10 at the half to the Vikings, my Saints roared back to win the game 34-23. Got picked three times -- two for touchdowns! -- but also picked Culpepper 3 times. Once I got them behind and into all-pass mode, it was easy.

Amazingly, my QB2 did better in the final quarter than Brooks, who had to leave due to a bruised chest. Went 3-3 with a TD, no picks.

I love this time of year! (Football on TV, football on the console.) :)

Abulia

Aug 19, 2005, 02:24 PM

You mean 42 year old Doug Flutie? He just wants to retire a Pat in his native state.No, the other one. Castle? I'm a big Flutie fan, myself. Gotta love the underdog! (Hey, I'm a Saints fan!) :D

yellow

Aug 19, 2005, 02:26 PM

No, the other one. Castle? I'm a big Flutie fan, myself. Gotta love the underdog! (Hey, I'm a Saints fan!) :D

yeahh Kassel I think it is..

The 3rd stringer, the kid that was a BACKUP in college (who never played) and somehow ended up in the NFL?

I was almost as shocked to see him as I was Flutie.

Here's hoping that TB doesn't go down. :rolleyes:

Cfg5

Sep 9, 2005, 02:20 AM

Welp, the 05 season is underway. Not really a surprise that the Patriots won. Moss had an awesome first game in black and white. I can't wait for Sunday Night Football: Colts at Ravens!

Sayhey

Sep 9, 2005, 03:15 AM

Only one prediction. My beloved 49ers will be in last place once again. Does anyone know how to trade an owner? :confused:

Applespider

Sep 9, 2005, 03:58 AM

Only one prediction. My beloved 49ers will be in last place once again. Does anyone know how to trade an owner? :confused:

Sadly not but it does look a lot brighter for the Niners than it did last year. Erickson and Donahue were dreadful - even if the word was coming down from on high and the Yorks. Since we can't trade an owner (and if you could, I expect the Cardinals would be way ahead of you to dump Bidwell, the Saints would want to dump Benson and the Bengals would be dumping Brown), I'm going to give him another year to prove that his Scroogelike ways are in the past and see how Nolan goes.

yellow

Sep 9, 2005, 08:44 AM

Well, quite a game. The Raider's 2ndary looked like ASS. Their D-line/LBs did a great job containing Corey Dillon though, even though they really couldn't get much pressure on TB. The Pats D-Line/LBs were predictably soft. The secondary played pretty well, considering they had to cover a gazelle and a tiger. TB looked great. Tim Dwight is fast as hell. Good game. I'm pleased with the outcome. :)

Diavilo1

Sep 9, 2005, 09:52 AM

Only one prediction. My beloved 49ers will be in last place once again. Does anyone know how to trade an owner? :confused:

We 'niner fans need to stick together again this year! At least we can't be called Bandwagoners!

Sayhey

Sep 10, 2005, 02:48 PM

Sadly not but it does look a lot brighter for the Niners than it did last year. Erickson and Donahue were dreadful - even if the word was coming down from on high and the Yorks. Since we can't trade an owner (and if you could, I expect the Cardinals would be way ahead of you to dump Bidwell, the Saints would want to dump Benson and the Bengals would be dumping Brown), I'm going to give him another year to prove that his Scroogelike ways are in the past and see how Nolan goes.

All true. I looking forward to see what Nolan can do with this team. I liked his father, and it's nice to see the son get a chance. Erickson was hopeless and a mirror of the ownership's capabilities. Let's hope they got lucky with Nolan and Smith turns out to be the real deal. Even given the best, last place looks very likely this year. I'd be very pleasantly surprised at 5-11 or 6-10 season.

highres

Sep 10, 2005, 02:56 PM

My Raiders should have a pretty good year this year, if not this year then next year for sure. The Raiders have picked up a lot of young talented players that need a little time to gel together. The D is much improved, the O and O line has some new youngsters and Moss looked good with that 73 yd TD reception...Things are lookin up...If only we had a Brady at QB... :rolleyes:

quigleybc

Sep 10, 2005, 03:01 PM

the Steelers probably would've had at least 1 or 2 superbowls in the late 90's.

I agree completely, I am a massive Steeler fan. The only thing I love more than Macs...

Kordell was weird. Does he still play backup for the Ravens? There was talk of him coming to the CFL

That super bowl (with Neil O'Donnel) caused some questions about Neil "throwin" the game...I mean some of those picks were to no one but the Dallas defenders...

I'm glad there are some Steeler fans on here...I am very nervous about this season...We looked horrible in the Pre-season, or at least the first team offense did...defense always shows up..

Tennessee tommorrow, They have kicked our ass for a few years, and almost killed Tommy Maddox literally. I hope we can show some of last year's spark.

Yoi and double Yoi!!

Go Burgh! :D

quigleybc

Sep 10, 2005, 03:03 PM

[QUOTE=anyone think the steelers will have another great season?[/QUOTE]

I sure hope so!!

quigleybc

Sep 11, 2005, 03:06 PM

I sure hope so!!

Awwww ya....another great season opener for the "Burgh"

Willie Parker is the next big thing.... :D :D :D :)

rdowns

Sep 11, 2005, 06:15 PM

All I can say about my Jets opener is....

Dont Hurt Me

Sep 11, 2005, 06:39 PM

How about My Dolpins? :D Kickings Denvers behind bad,really bad. :)

Applespider

Sep 11, 2005, 06:44 PM

All true. I looking forward to see what Nolan can do with this team. Even given the best, last place looks very likely this year.

Hey, I'm impressed - some nice play-calling although it did get awfully close at the end; the defense just couldn't get off the field. Let's stop the season now though while the Niners lead the NFC West. I'm now feeling far more positive about the games I'm coming out to later in the year! And my second favourite team, the Lions, are also leading their division :D

Some surprises today - how disappointing the Jets, Vikings, Broncos and Packers were, how surprising Miami, San Francisco and Tampa were. Giants were also better than advertised... and well done New Orleans for pulling that win out.

jiv3turkey748

Sep 11, 2005, 06:48 PM

ccarolina lost to the saints anyone who thought carolina had a shot a the super bowl is crazy

cant wait for falcons vs. eagles tomarrow

Go Falcons!!

Dont Hurt Me

Sep 11, 2005, 06:56 PM

They said that last year about the Yahoo's from Carolina so dont be so quick. Plus the Saints needed this one. There have been some great games this first week i will admit. Lots of new folks on those dolp[hins. Hope Taylor is Ok after that final play running back 87 yards. He didnt look so well after that run but then who would after 4 qtrs and then that. :)

xsedrinam

Sep 11, 2005, 07:21 PM

St. Louis and Mike Martz may be high on Marc Bulger but IMO, he's enjoyed looking good on paper throughout his career, but when it comes down to the time to deliver, he chokes. Quick delivery? You think FedEx has stayed in business just 'cause it's quick? I had Mike Martz right up there with the Bill Belicheks' of NFL coaching. Right now, I no longer hold to that position. P.A.T.'s? YOU KICK for one point. Do that three times and, magically, there are three points added to your team's score you just might need, at the end of regulation. Yes, I'm mad. Congratulations Niner Fans. I'll get over it.

yellow

Sep 12, 2005, 08:28 AM

quigleybc

Sep 12, 2005, 01:19 PM

i predict a big night for the NFL, tonights game should be fun.

two of the premier qb's ready to run and gun.

I will be pulling for the eagles.

How about the Ravens on Sunday night? Not to good. Which is good for the Steelers...ha ha. A lot of people picked the Ravens to edge out the Burgh, but now they will be back peddling...it's just the first game, but the Ravens' QB will be out for a while...Just long enough for the Steelers to get out in front in the AFC North.

Go burgh! :D

Applespider

Sep 12, 2005, 02:46 PM

it's just the first game, but the Ravens' QB will be out for a while...

Hmm, tho it's arguable whether Anthony Wright isn't an upgrade from Kyle Boller... The Steelers looked good last night; who needs to score in preseason!

I think tonight might be an upset with Atlanta winning a close one. Jim Mora's defense has had a year in his system and he's always been aggressive there. He also knows TO pretty well from his years in San Francisco and I'll lay bets that he's been priming DeAngelo Hall on how best to play him. Won't see the game tonight since it doesn't start til 2am in the UK and last night was late enough!

jelloshotsrule

Sep 12, 2005, 03:35 PM

redskins on their way to yet another undefeated season! in my mind

yellow

Sep 12, 2005, 03:55 PM

in my mind

That's as good a place as any.. can the genius of Joey Gibbs overcome the lunacy of Daniel Snyder? Hopefully.

Lord Blackadder

Sep 12, 2005, 04:02 PM

Won't see the game tonight since it doesn't start til 2am in the UK and last night was late enough!

It's gotta be rough being a fan living outside the US...I don't think I could stay up for the games, especially the west coast ones. :eek:

All I know is that yet again my home team, the Browns, look weak. New coach/QB or not, the battle of Ohio went pretty bad for us, Cincinatti made mincemeat out of out defense and we weren't scoring points.

Slightly OT: Not to mention that Ohio State lost. :mad:

atszyman

Sep 12, 2005, 04:13 PM

Wow.. quite a weekend. A lot of upsets. A lot of teams that I thought would be bad looked pretty darned good (Detroit), and vice versa (Denver). Gus Frerotte sold his soul to the devil, clearly.

The Lions could be the team to beat in the NFC north this year, my prediction is 10-6.

The Packers (my team) have a shot if they can get the offensive line together and get away from stupid penalties I'm predicting 9-7 (possible wildcard).

I think Minnesota will suffer from growing pains this year without having Moss, as much as I disliked him he was a hell of a threat when he decided to play, my prediction 8-8.

The Bears are, well, the Bears, haven't heard much about what they've done and haven't heard anyone expecting a great year out of them, my prediction 6-10.

I guarantee my predictions are wrong so if you bet money using them be prepared to be broke...

yellow

Sep 12, 2005, 04:14 PM

All I know is that yet again my home team, the Browns, look weak. New coach/QB or not, the battle of Ohio went pretty bad for us, Cincinatti made mincemeat out of out defense and we weren't scoring points.

I dunno.. Cincy is a pretty good team this year, and the Brownies have some real diamonds in the rough. Romeo is brining a lot to the table, it's going to take a year or so for the scheme to be properly implemented. That and a trade to get rid of Dilfer.

quigleybc

Sep 12, 2005, 04:37 PM

The Steelers looked good last night; who needs to score in preseason!

Agreed, I'm not sure if that game wasn't a case of the Titans looking really bad or the Steelers looking good...hard to tell.

But, it wasn't a sloppy game, not a whole lot of penalties, or turnovers, just big hits mostly..

I agree with the Atlanta upset tonight, I think Philly will slide a bit this year, unfortunately.

quigleybc

Sep 12, 2005, 04:38 PM

Cincy is a pretty good team this year, and the Brownies have some real diamonds in the rough.

Agreed, unfortunalely it will all be for not, because they are in the AFC north, home of the Steelers.. ;)

Applespider

Sep 12, 2005, 06:54 PM

It's gotta be rough being a fan living outside the US...I don't think I could stay up for the games, especially the west coast ones. :eek:

To be honest, it's only the primetime games that are a killer so unless my team is involved, I rarely watch the Sunday/Monday night games - except during the playoffs, boy did I curse when they moved the Sunday playoff round back so the first game started at 4ET rather than the usual 1ET. Having the games start at 6pm and 9pm works out quite well - you can have a normal Sunday with friends/partners and then sit and watch the football. The only problem is getting home from central London bars at 1 in the morning. :eek:

MacDawg

Sep 13, 2005, 06:57 AM

Huge win for the Falcons, and with the Panthers losing on Sunday, it makes Atlanta the favorite in the South, and maybe for the NFC. Their defense looked good, and the offense had flashes. Both teams were sloppy, and having Trotter out of the game didn't hurt the Falcons either.

Still, I prefer College football :o

Woof, Woof – Dawg http://homepage.mac.com/k.j.vinson/pawprint.gif

LethalWolfe

Sep 13, 2005, 07:09 AM

That's as good a place as any.. can the genius of Joey Gibbs overcome the lunacy of Daniel Snyder? Hopefully.

I'm not petty. I'll take an ugly "W" any day.

But my faith in Gibbs is waning. We've had exactly 1 game in the season and already the QB controversy is back. Yes, Gibbs waited *way* to long to yank Brunell last season, but I think yanking Ramsey after 1 game is a bit trigger happy.

Lethal

Applespider

Sep 13, 2005, 07:40 AM

Yes, Gibbs waited *way* to long to yank Brunell last season, but I think yanking Ramsey after 1 game is a bit trigger happy.

Yeah...when I read that, I wondered whether Spurrier had crept back into Fedex Field. I remember being at a Monday night game where he was playing with the two-headed monster to dreadful effect - not suprising when Danny Woeful was involved.

So what's the magic number of losses before Jason Campbell gets called for?

yellow

Sep 13, 2005, 08:09 AM

So what's the magic number of losses before Jason Campbell gets called for?

3 (quarters)

LethalWolfe

Sep 13, 2005, 08:18 AM

3 (quarters)

Actually, that makes me think of something. Maybe Gibbs really is still a genius. Gibbs is taking the theory of "short yardage specialists" and "pass rush specialists" and applying it to the QB position. Why settle for 1 "jack of all trades" QB when you can rotate in one of 3 "specialized" QBs. Brilliant!

:cool:

Lethal

EDIT: At least when I play football on my Xbox my 'Skins always win.

yellow

Sep 13, 2005, 08:30 AM

I expect the Skins to have an 8-8, or may a 9-7 season this year, and next season to be the real break out as Gibbs gets his personell in. The QB problems will be gone because they will make an incredible off season deal to get a quality QB, dumping the crap they have now.

gwuMACaddict

Sep 13, 2005, 08:46 AM

thought the eagles looked weak last night

bummed about baltimore's loss to the colts. though i do like the colts, i have to root for baltimore first :)

Applespider

Sep 13, 2005, 10:05 AM

The QB problems will be gone because they will make an incredible off season deal to get a quality QB, dumping the crap they have now.

Didn't they burn one of next year's draft picks to trade up to get Jason Campbell though? I thought he was the mortgaged 'QB of the future'?

yellow

Sep 13, 2005, 10:20 AM

Hmm could be.. maybe JG is head of the schedule on the Skins turn around? :)

jelloshotsrule

Sep 13, 2005, 10:30 AM

not being big into college football i want to ask... just how good was jason campbell and does he seem to be one of those good/great college qbs who fizzles quickly in the nfl?

quigleybc

Sep 13, 2005, 02:33 PM

thought the eagles looked weak last night

bummed about baltimore's loss to the colts. though i do like the colts, i have to root for baltimore first :)

I disagree, I think the Falcons looked very tough, and the Eagles looked like a team that were out played, and out coached...flat out. Donovan was under pressure almost every down. I mean, the Falcons blitzed like three or four plays in a row at one point..TO came to play, and Donovan did ok. The Falcons look really good, and IMO are the team to beat in the NFC this year.

As for Baltimore, anything bad that happens to that team means good things for my team (burgh) as they are direct rivals for the playoffs. So, a QB injury is music to my ears..although, I wish the Ravens weren't in the AFC North, so I could route for them because they are a very cool team...

Go Burgh... :)

Thomas Veil

Sep 14, 2005, 12:30 AM

All I know is that yet again my home team, the Browns, look weak. New coach/QB or not, the battle of Ohio went pretty bad for us, Cincinatti made mincemeat out of out defense and we weren't scoring points.I'm a long-suffering Browns fan too, and yes, the team looked pretty pathetic.

Lotsa reasons why. Butch Davis left the team an absolute shambles last season. Romeo Crennel and Phil Savage have made all the right moves to rebuild the team during the off-season, but you can only do so much in one year.

The defense has three problems: they're not quite jelling yet; they're still trying to get comfortable in the 3-4 defense; and frankly, quite a few of the players are merely mediocre. Other teams are gonna have a lot of fun scoring on the Browns until, probably, halfway through the season. That's when I look for things to start coming together. They won't be the Steel Curtain, but they shouldn't be doormats either. Look to the Browns taking lots of defensive players in the draft next year.

The offense is, frankly, not bad. I like our receivers. Neither Droughns nor Suggs are the second coming of Priest Holmes, but they're decent RBs and will do until, if and when the Browns find a true feature back. The O line is noticably improved. This is the first time since the Browns came back that I can remember the QB being able to stand in the pocket for so long, instead of running for his life. Which brings us to...

That and a trade to get rid of Dilfer.Don't worry about Dilfer. He's either demoted to 2nd or gone after this year. 2006 will be all about Charlie Frye, and while I hate to say this about a rookie based on only a few preseason games...the guy looks good. I mean really good. Decent arm, sees the field, makes quick decisions, looks off defenses well, picks up blitzes, keeps his cool, throws well on the run...what's not to like?

I think Romeo might finally be The Man to take this team back to greatness. Unlike the last few years, when you had to wonder what the hell Butch Davis was thinking much of the time, I have yet to see one thing that Romeo Crennell has done that hasn't made perfect sense. With the support of guys like Phil Savage (instead of bozos like Carmen Policy), the Browns stand a very good chance, a few years from now, of turning into the Patriots of the AFC North.

Dave00

Sep 14, 2005, 08:46 AM

I am very nervous about this season...We looked horrible in the Pre-season, or at least the first team offense did...defense always shows up..
Well, so much for the offensive woes. Granted, this was Tennessee, but still. The defense is the unit that has me worried. They have got to tighten up, especially the secondary.

The next game - Pittsburgh at Houston - is a rematch of one of the most bizarre games in NFL history. Pittsburgh completely dominated statistically - total yards for Houston was in double-digits, while Pittsburgh piled up nearly 500 yards of offense, Carr was sacked (4) more often than he completed a pass (3), yet the final score was Houston 24, Pittsburgh 6 - courtesy of 3 turnovers returned for scores. Hopefully that's till enough in the memory that they don't look ahead to New England - which might be one of the best games of the year.

Dave

Dave00

Sep 14, 2005, 08:48 AM

Willie Parker is the next big thing.... :D :D :D :)
I couldn't believe no one grabbed him off the practice squad last season when he didn't make the team after preseason. Wow. The running game is impressive. You have a future hall-of-famer (Bettis), dependable back when he's healthy (Staley), and now Willie Parker. Why pass the ball at all?

Dave

yellow

Sep 14, 2005, 08:55 AM

They better pass the ball, I'm starting Big Benny in my fantasy league.. :)

Dave00

Sep 14, 2005, 09:31 AM

Plus the Saints needed this one.
I'd hate to play the Saints this year. I mean, it's hard to feel good about beating a team that has had its city ravaged, and has no true home. And everyone's got to be pulling for them. Not to mention what adversity can do to bring together a team. Last year the Steelers were in a hurricaine in Miami, the power went out, and they all said that's when they got real tight. After that, 15 straight wins.

Dave

Dave00

Sep 14, 2005, 09:38 AM

We've had exactly 1 game in the season and already the QB controversy is back.
I'm actually surprised with the dreadful quarterback situation at some teams - most notably Washington and Chicago - no one picked up Charlie Batch when the Steelers released him for 1 day. (Granted, they may have wanted to get him, but as a veteran Batch could've refused.) I'd bet good money that either of the Steelers' backups - Maddox or Batch - would easily start for Chicago or Washington.

Dave

clayj

Sep 18, 2005, 05:13 PM

Panthers beat the Patriots today... yes!

(That's about all I can type. I nearly passed out at the game due to the extreme heat and the fact I was wearing my BLACK Panthers jersey over a T-shirt.)

stubeeef

Sep 18, 2005, 05:50 PM

Go panthers!

Revenge is a plate best served cold! :p

LethalWolfe

Sep 18, 2005, 05:50 PM

I know it's only the 2nd week but if the Colt's D keeps it up and the O just plays at least half as good as they did least year some Superbowl rings might end up in Indy.

Although I'm on the losing side of the series I always look forward to the 'Skins and Cowboys games. Hopefully I'll be happy Monday Night. :)

Lethal

Applespider

Sep 18, 2005, 06:21 PM

I love the NFL - how many experts (and non-experts) got more than 9 or 10 of those results right... especially the spreads on the Det@Chi game - ouch... I may have to stop wearing my Roy Williams shirt since they've been pummelled on 2 of the 3 times I've worn it.

And who'd have thought Tennessee could beat Baltimore... or how Jacksonville would pretty much shut down Indy's offense... or what the heck is happening in Minneapolis? Will Tice be the first coaching victim of the season?

clayj

Sep 18, 2005, 08:06 PM

Inspector Lee

Sep 18, 2005, 09:37 PM

Panthers beat the Patriots today... yes!

(That's about all I can type. I nearly passed out at the game due to the extreme heat and the fact I was wearing my BLACK Panthers jersey over a T-shirt.)

Was the heat the reason the stadium was half empty? Was listening to ESPN radio en route to the gym and they were laughing about how the stadium looked like it was a preseason game with the upper bowl basically vacant. They were saying that if the defending champs are in town and it is a beautiful day and you can't fill the joint, it is pathetic.

Just curious...

clayj

Sep 18, 2005, 09:44 PM

Was the heat the reason the stadium was half empty? Was listening to ESPN radio en route to the gym and they were laughing about how the stadium looked like it was a preseason game with the upper bowl basically vacant. They were saying that if the defending champs are in town and it is a beautiful day and you can't fill the joint, it is pathetic.

Just curious...Depends on what time you were listening to that... the stadium was full when the game started, but the heat was so bad that a lot of folks started leaving in the 3rd quarter.

I stayed until the end, but I had to go inside for the last couple of minutes of the first half and through halftime...

Applespider

Sep 19, 2005, 03:56 AM

I'm impressed (seriously) that someone in the UK would follow the NFL as closely as it seems you do. :)

It's a bad habit that I have. ;) We get a very odd reaction in bars in the UK where a group of us go to watch them. There are generally lots of Americans on vacation who can't quite believe that there's a group of 3 girls (and only one or two guys) watching the game with them with enough knowledge to argue the replay challenges with them. We've challenged and won quite a few drinks from tourists over the Sundays

Seriously, it's my favourite sport and the only one that I'll go out of my way to watch. I love the structure and strategy involved in it; infinitely more so than soccer. I've been watching it for nearly 20 years now... and it makes an excellent excuse to come out to the US every year and catch a few games. Charlotte's one of the 10 NFL cities I haven't seen a game at yet tho I did support the Panthers at Super Bowl XXXVIII (which I was at :D ) since Jake Delhomme, one of our NFL Europe homies, was there.

clayj

Sep 19, 2005, 09:04 AM

It's a bad habit that I have. ;) We get a very odd reaction in bars in the UK where a group of us go to watch them. There are generally lots of Americans on vacation who can't quite believe that there's a group of 3 girls (and only one or two guys) watching the game with them with enough knowledge to argue the replay challenges with them. We've challenged and won quite a few drinks from tourists over the Sundays

Seriously, it's my favourite sport and the only one that I'll go out of my way to watch. I love the structure and strategy involved in it; infinitely more so than soccer. I've been watching it for nearly 20 years now... and it makes an excellent excuse to come out to the US every year and catch a few games. Charlotte's one of the 10 NFL cities I haven't seen a game at yet tho I did support the Panthers at Super Bowl XXXVIII (which I was at :D ) since Jake Delhomme, one of our NFL Europe homies, was there.Well, if you want to see the Panthers play at home, let me know... I have season tickets and would be happy to take you to a game if you come to Charlotte. Just give me some advance notice so I can make sure I haven't committed my extra ticket to anyone else.

yellow

Sep 19, 2005, 09:28 AM

What the hell happened?

That was the worst showing I've seen from the Pats since they got lambasted by Miami. How can any team commit 13 penalties and win? How many dropped balls did they have? 10? Couldn't get the running game going at all. Terrible. Carolina's D played pretty darned well, I've got to hand it to their endurance, the blitzed over and over and completely wore down the Pat's O-line. During the last 2 quarters, the Pat's O-Line couldn't keep the pocket from collapsing if their life depended on it. Lucas played like a fiend. That first TD they gave to Davis was NOT a TD. That was BS. And finally, Jake got really lucky. There were quite a few errant passes that could have, no, should have ended up as INTs. A pox on Ricky Proehl.

Ugh that was painful to watch.

MacDawg

Sep 19, 2005, 09:45 AM

Not likely that any team would go undefeated anyway, so get your losses out of the way early and win with momentum late.

Woof, Woof – Dawg http://homepage.mac.com/k.j.vinson/pawprint.gif

Dave00

Sep 19, 2005, 11:35 AM

Once again, my steelers looked tough. More than once, the commentator said "MAN these guys are good" in the middle of Pittsburgh offensive play. I'm not sure Fast Willie can keep putting up that kind of rushing yardage, but even if he doesn't, and you have to bring in Bettis & Staley, who will now be fresh and healthy... the key is the run. Next week will be a big test. You never want to play a good team - and New England is a good team, despite the dreadful performance against Carolina - after a tough loss. I predict this will be the best game yet of the season, with the win coming on a last-second field goal.

I just feel bad for Brett Favre. With all the personal tragedy he's had to endure, you want to see him go out on top. But he's on a team that's clearly in decline.

What a surprise to see Cincinatti and Chicago doing so well. Although it's VERY early.

I can't believe I get to watch TWO monday night football games. My wife is less than thrilled, but hey, she makes me watch Desperate Housewives with her.

Dave

Applespider

Sep 19, 2005, 01:10 PM

Well, if you want to see the Panthers play at home, let me know... I have season tickets and would be happy to take you to a game if you come to Charlotte. Just give me some advance notice so I can make sure I haven't committed my extra ticket to anyone else.

Thanks... I just might take you up on that next season - this year's games are planned out! ;)

LethalWolfe

Sep 20, 2005, 12:50 AM

Oh, hell yeah!

Anyone else see the 'Skin's squeak one out at the end? I think those two passes to Santana Moss were the two longest completions Brunell has had as a Redskin.

Man, I agonized for 55 minutes, but the last 4:30 was awesome.

Not that it matters now, but Taylor delivered a mega-hit on Keyshawn<sp?> that resulted in the ball rocketing out of his hand, and I swear it shouldla been a fumble but it was ruled an incomplete pass.

Lethal

njstaffer

Sep 20, 2005, 11:33 AM

clayj

Sep 20, 2005, 11:49 AM

quigleybc

Sep 20, 2005, 01:26 PM

Well, Burgh looks pretty good.

Big Ben seems poised and in control, and Willie Parker seems ready to blow up.

Defence is tight and aggresive as usual (Troy Polamalu might be the best at his position depending on who you talk to)

Patriots next week....damn....Why do we always have to play them...They seem to be a blessed team where nothing goes wrong, (other than last week)

So, it should be a good one.

Burgh 23 - Pats 17

We'll see

Go Burgh!!!

Cowher Power!!

:) :) :) :)

quigleybc

Sep 20, 2005, 01:27 PM

Steelers still going strong this year. :) Playoffs here we come! :D

The depth they have in their running game is incredible. Their third running back is now running for 100 plus yards a game! When Duce and Jerome come back in play, they will be on fire!
Plus, we know that Rothlesburger can play injured, good new there!

Yes Yes Yes Yes

Was ben even injured? Might have been faking it....

he scrambled like he was fine..

Duce who??? We love Willie!!! :eek:

jiv3turkey748

Sep 20, 2005, 01:57 PM

i cant belive the falcons lost that game was painful to watch

Dave00

Sep 20, 2005, 02:58 PM

New ESPN Power Rankings (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/powerranking) are out. Big changes:

Patriots drop from #1 to #4 after loss to Panthers.
Panthers move UP from #14 to #8 after beating Patriots. :)
Colts move up to #1 from #2, Steelers up to #2 from #3.
Falcons drop to #6 from #4 after loss to Seahawks shows how overrated they really are.
Bengals at #7!!! This is surely one of the signs of the Apocalypse.

Top ten: 6 AFC teams, 4 NFC.
Odd they've got the Eagles at #3. I think as far as how dominating teams have been thus far in a young season, you've got to put the Colts, Steelers, Giants, Bucs and Chiefs in a category by themselves. New England is probably in that club as well, but based on performance, not yet. And it's probably premature to put the Giants or Chiefs in there until they play some real competition.

Dave

Dave00

Sep 20, 2005, 03:02 PM

So, any early votes for the best 0-2 team and the worst 2-0?

Worst 2-0 is easy. Redskins all the way. (Sorry Washington fans.)

Best 0-2? I'd say the Raiders. They look like a scary team. Could probably make a case for the Chargers or Ravens. Ravens are an enigmatic team, though. They have a 2000-yard rusher from 2 years ago, and a marquee secondary, but geez, they just look bad out there.

Dave

yellow

Sep 20, 2005, 03:05 PM

I'd put the Chargers as the best 0-2 team, over the Raiders anyday.

Kwyjibo

Sep 20, 2005, 04:56 PM

anyone else see the bears dominate that game ....ooooh yeah nfc north is so possible.

LethalWolfe

Sep 20, 2005, 10:26 PM

Worst 2-0 is easy. Redskins all the way. (Sorry Washington fans.)

I dunno, I don't think it's that cut and dry. Washington is the only team 2-0 team to not have an opponent that is 0-2. For example, the Vikings and Ravens look like crap so far so it's hard to give Cincy and Indy big congrats on those respective wins. It is nice to see Indy's D finally start to step up though.

I agree that Washington still has a meager Offense, but their D has stayed stellar.

All Washington needs is an average O and their D to keep up the good work and they will be a playoff bound team.

Lethal

quigleybc

Oct 4, 2005, 02:07 PM

jelloshotsrule

Oct 4, 2005, 03:00 PM

3-0. go skins. on their way to an undefeated season!

hahahahhahahahahahha

Cfg5

Oct 4, 2005, 03:40 PM

3-0. go skins. on their way to an undefeated season!

hahahahhahahahahahha

What's funny is they've won all of their games by a combined 6 points. :eek:

clayj

Oct 4, 2005, 05:02 PM

Damn

Brett had his game on last night!!

He is so amazing to watch sometimes

just an absolute gunslinger, might be the last of his kind

i really thought that they were going to make a big drive at the end there

oh wellThank goodness the Panthers were FINALLY able to mount some semblance of a defense and stop that last drive... the funny thing is that everyone talks about how good our defense is, but sometimes they only play three quarters of the game and then we Panther fans end up chewing our nails off while we fritter away a big lead.

Highly annoying, but I'm glad we got the W last night. Better to be 2-2 than 1-3.

iPoster

Oct 4, 2005, 08:32 PM

Donovan McNabb, #1 passer in the NFL, on pace for a 5,000+ yard season! :D

Now just imagine if he was healthy... :eek:

LethalWolfe

Oct 4, 2005, 08:47 PM

Damn

Brett had his game on last night!!

He is so amazing to watch sometimes

If only he could have his game on and be amazing to watch for 4 quarters instead of one and the Pack might not be 0-4. I was hopping for a last second win too, but their O just is not firin' on all cylinders. At times they look like a bunch of rookies that have never played together.

McNabb and the Eagles - Wow. Talk 'bout not givin' up. Hats off to McNabb and Akers (for last week) for playin' thru the pain.

'Skins - I like 3 and 0. Denver is gonna be tough though. The D is there we just need the O to keep pickin' up steam (I guess Brunell still does have some juice left in those old legs).

Lethal

Cfg5

Oct 5, 2005, 02:21 AM

Skins will be lucky to score 3 points against Denver.

Also, Indy is giving up 6.5 points a game this season...wow. If they keep that up they are definitley favorites for the superbowl.

jelloshotsrule

Oct 5, 2005, 08:30 AM

Skins will be lucky to score 3 points against Denver.

Also, Indy is giving up 6.5 points a game this season...wow. If they keep that up they are definitley favorites for the superbowl.

so denver's d is better than chicago's?

i don't expect skins to win, but 3 points seems fairly likely

Dandaman

Oct 5, 2005, 11:49 AM

so denver's d is better than chicago's?

i don't expect skins to win, but 3 points seems fairly likely

Denver fan here, so i may be just a wee bit biased, but Denver's D looks really really good since that second half against the chargers. The 2 TD's they gave up since then: one was a trash TD given up by Walls (who shouldn't be on the field) and the TD by Jimmy Smith which was one horrible play by the Bronco's D. Plus the whole game against JAX and half against KC was WITHOUT Champ.

Plus, Denver is at home, so 3 points isn't out of the question (They almost did it to KC, who rolled up 17 in the first quarter against Philly). But of course, Denver always seems to play down to their opponent's level. I'm hoping that that trend ends this year. A solid running game, an efficient Jake and a great D will get this team deep this year.

Daniel

atszyman

Oct 5, 2005, 12:20 PM

If only he could have his game on and be amazing to watch for 4 quarters instead of one and the Pack might not be 0-4. I was hopping for a last second win too, but their O just is not firin' on all cylinders. At times they look like a bunch of rookies that have never played together.

Yeah, it would be nice to see the offense come together for a full game, but if finally started to show some promise against Carolina. The O line hasn't been playing well all year and they finally looked like they were starting to figure it out and get Bret some time. It was one hell of a comeback and had the defense gotten on it's game one series earlier Carolina would have missed out on the winning TD.

I'm hoping that this weekend we manage to get 1 for the W column before the bye week so we can recover a bit.

Anyone else notice that the comeback really started after Favre got hit and was limping around? I really think he needs a distraction to play well (broken fingers, and family tragedy seem to lead to Favre playing well). Favre has great instincts, and I am really starting to believe that if he focuses solely on football he over thinks, second guesses and gets into trouble.

Not that it matters too much I'm predicting retirement after next year when he breaks Marino's touchdown record. The pack is a long way from a Super Bowl and as much as Favre says he doesn't want records, he's only 35 TDs away from tying Marino at 420 and barring any injury I think he wants this record to retire on.

quigleybc

Oct 5, 2005, 03:42 PM

I really think he needs a distraction to play well (broken fingers, and family tragedy seem to lead to Favre playing well).

totally

that's just one of those things that makes him and the nfl special

Drama

Gotta love Brett

Any predictions for my Steelers next monday night in San Diego?

I have no idea what to think about that game

It's a long road trip, Chargers are coming off a big win IN new england, and the Burgh just got beat up by the Pats...so on paper it doesn't look too good.

But I predict the Burgh will be extremely fired up for this one..And the Chargers are going to have to stop three great running backs that will be used in rotation..Combination of speed (parker) Power (Bettis) and Speed and Power (Staley)

I'm concerned about the Burghs pass defense though...Brees could have a big day...we'll see.

Cfg5

Oct 6, 2005, 01:37 AM

Alright...

screw Brett Favre and all those damn reporters and announcers who suck is damn nuts. He hasn't come close to bringing the Packers to another superbowl in 8 years.

http://graphics.jsonline.com/graphics/packer/img/news/oct03/rw-brett1019.jpg

Steelers and Chargers are dead even but Chargers will win cuz they're at home. Plus the Steelers suck.

Redskins suck and Denver will shut them out.

jelloshotsrule

Oct 6, 2005, 08:16 AM

Redskins suck and Denver will shut them out.

we'll see. but you definitely are tough! yeah man!

Dandaman

Oct 6, 2005, 10:45 AM

Redskins suck and Denver will shut them out.

That's Right!! We'll all see that Shanahan pulled off a great trade in getting Champ and a 2nd rounder (Tatum Bell) for Portis. And how about the four DLinemen from Cleveland? Seems to have turned out pretty well, huh? :)

daniel

Cfg5

Oct 6, 2005, 12:45 PM

That's Right!! We'll all see that Shanahan pulled off a great trade in getting Champ and a 2nd rounder (Tatum Bell) for Portis. And how about the four DLinemen from Cleveland? Seems to have turned out pretty well, huh? :)

daniel

People can argue whether Champ or Clinton are overrated, but Denver clearly came out on top. Clinton Portis was brought in to upgrade the offense, and so far he hasn't. Champ's departure hasn't hurt Washington's defense however. Bailey was brought in to upgrade the defense and he has, Denver's running game hasn't dropped off one bit either, which is why they got the better deal.

Those defensive lineman have been playing really well too. Especially Gerard Warren and Courtney Brown.

We'll see how Clinton's homecoming goes...

LethalWolfe

Oct 6, 2005, 03:28 PM

People can argue whether Champ or Clinton are overrated, but Denver clearly came out on top. Clinton Portis was brought in to upgrade the offense, and so far he hasn't. Champ's departure hasn't hurt Washington's defense however. Bailey was brought in to upgrade the defense and he has, Denver's running game hasn't dropped off one bit either, which is why they got the better deal.

I remember in Champ's last or 2nd-to-last season w/the Skins his left arm got so banged up (wrist and shoulder injuries IIRC) that he basically was Champ-the-armed-corner for most of the season and he was still picking off balls and shutting down his side of the secondary. It was just amazing watching him beat a receiver to the ball and pick it off w/one hand.

Portis in '04 had no chance to do anything 'cause the passing game was nonexistent and the O line was banged up. Pretty hard to run the ball when Ds just stack the box and burn thru your line. Now, w/a healthier O line and a passing game that's starting to find it's way Portis has more freedom to run. End of last season 'Skins were 20th in rushing. Currently they are 6th. The payoff might not have been as fast, but I think Washington will get it's money's worth out of Portis.

Something that's interesting, which you already pointed out, is that neither team was hurt by the trade. The 'Skins D didn't get worse (and still hasn't even after giving up Smoot to the Vikings) and neither did Denver's O (which isn't surprising since Shannan keeps RB's in his trunk).

Lethal

Cfg5

Oct 6, 2005, 04:55 PM

LethalWolfe

Oct 6, 2005, 05:09 PM

The Portis for Bailey trade is pretty much dead even. I wish I could say the same for the Moss for 1st/Harris trade.

Also, I heard Lavar Arrington is essentialy benched now...only playing 2 snaps last week. I think they were saying he freelances too much. Is he gonna get released next year? (His cap figure is 12 million in 2006 :eek: )

Yeah, my jaw dropped when I saw Gibbs say Arrington is pretty much gonna ride the pine. I mean, I guess sense the D is working so well as a unit w/o him on the field, and he is a loss canon at times... but he's a loss canon that can single handedly shift the momentum of the game. I don't think anyone's made anything "official" but the think the unofficial understanding by everyone is that Arrington is gonna play somewhere else next year. I've always liked Arrington, it'll be a shame to see him in different colors next year.

Lethal

Cfg5

Oct 6, 2005, 05:21 PM

If (or when) he gets released I wonder if he'll be looking for a fat contract even though he will ride the bench the rest of this season. I wonder where he would go.

Dandaman

Oct 6, 2005, 08:58 PM

The Portis for Bailey trade is pretty much dead even.

True, Washington's D Denver's rushing attack haven't lost a step. But wouldn't you say that the benefits for Denver have been better. Did you see Foxworth and Darrent Williams play? I believe that is a direct result of having Champ teach these young rookies how to be a great corner like himself. I think the Denver D has improved much more than the Washington rushing has.

daniel

Cfg5

Oct 6, 2005, 10:58 PM

Yeah the results of it have been kinda weird. Portis came in to DC and rushed for over 1,000 yards, Bailey had a solid season locking down the opposing teams #1 receiver(except Jerry Porter). But Bailey has made the whole defense around him better (locking down the WR so a safety can step into the box) while portis has played good and has done everything he can but hasn't elevated the status of the offense (which rests on the qb more so than rb)

LethalWolfe

Oct 7, 2005, 04:14 AM

True, Washington's D Denver's rushing attack haven't lost a step. But wouldn't you say that the benefits for Denver have been better. Did you see Foxworth and Darrent Williams play? I believe that is a direct result of having Champ teach these young rookies how to be a great corner like himself. I think the Denver D has improved much more than the Washington rushing has.

daniel

Granted it's impossible to do a one-to-one comparison 'cause it's apples to oranges, but I think both teams got what they needed. Baily has elevated Denver's D, and w/only a slight increase in the passing game the 'Skins rushing game has gone from the lower 1/3rd to the top 10. You also have to take the state of the teams into consideration as well. Shanahan<sp?> has had lots of time to tune Denver into a well oiled machine. Washington has been a complete mess for over a decade. Mike has is car in the wind tunnel making areo adjustments and Joe is still lookin' for all the right parts to his car just to get it to start on Sundays. :D

Denver wanted an immediate solution to a problem and got that in Baily. Washington wanted long a term investment they could help build a team around and I think they got that in Portis.

Cfg5,
As far as Arrington goes, I don't think he'll have much problem finding a team that needs a play-making LB.

Lethal

njstaffer

Oct 7, 2005, 01:03 PM

STEELERS, enough said!

quigleybc

Oct 7, 2005, 02:58 PM

Plus the Steelers suck.

My anger at that comment is immense

The steelers are the greatest thing EVER!!!!

they will make you eat your words

:eek:

clayj

Oct 9, 2005, 06:28 PM

GREAT day for the Panthers today... we beat the Cards 24-20 (by the skin of our teeth), AND the other three NFC South teams all lost! Thanks to the Patriots for downing the Falcons, the Jets for making the Bucs walk the plank, and the Packers for damning the Saints (quite badly... 52-3??? wow!).

jelloshotsrule

Oct 9, 2005, 08:51 PM

Redskins suck and Denver will shut them out.

not quite a shut out...

i think the redskins showed that while they aren't going to win it all, they're better than a lot of people give them credit for.

minus a couple botched run defenses, they dominated. and the key is that they could've let it slip out of their grasps late in the 3rd, and didn't, and nearly pulled off a comeback.

quite a game

LethalWolfe

Oct 10, 2005, 01:47 AM

Wish the Was/Den game was on the air in LA, looked like it was a nail biter. Even though the Skins lost, Denver was their toughest opponent yet and htey hung w/them. I think it was a good showing that the Skins are becoming a solid team again and aren't 3-1 from an easy schedule. How many times during the off-season do you think Brunell muttered to himself, "Old man? I'll show you an old!":D That was some nasty weather to put up 300+ yards in. At least the cowboys won (never thought I'd say that) so the Skins are still on top of the NFC West.

Of course, what about the Packers. Talk about letting off some steam. 52-3. Ouch.

Glad to see the Pats win (never been an Atlanta fan), and Jacksonville over Cincy was nice too. Save for the Colts all the unbeatens got beat today.

Lethal

Cfg5

Oct 10, 2005, 09:02 PM

My Ravens had 21 penalties and 2 ejections :eek:

Dave00

Oct 11, 2005, 08:38 AM

Great Monday night game. Too bad the officials tried hard to muck it up. The over-rule on the Hines Ward touchdown was ridiculous. And I think I understand the muff rule on the fair catch, but it seems like that's more designed for when a player bobbles the catch, not when it actually bounces off him towards another player. I mean, when does the opposing player have a chance to recover the ball? Does it have to hit the ground?

But all in all, a great game. LaDanian Tomlinson is for real. The Chargers look like a playoff team, despite having a losing record. Hopefully Roethlisberger will be ok. That was a nasty hit he took to the knee, and based on the movement of the knee, it could very well be an ACL or PCL.

Cincinatti is for real too. Even with the loss, they still look dangerous. A playoff spot in the AFC is going to be tough to get, what with the Colts, Steelers, Chargers, Patriots, Bengals, and Broncos playing so well.

Dave

Dave00

Oct 11, 2005, 08:43 AM

So, which is the strongest and weakest division, thus far? I think the weakest is clearly the NFC North, although the NFC West would give them a run for their money. Strongest is probably the surprising NFC East. They've got a chance to send all of their teams to the playoffs, although I'm still not sold on Dallas and Washington being any good. I would say maybe the AFC North too but the Ravens are just playing so damn poorly.

Dave

yellow

Oct 11, 2005, 08:44 AM

The Pats/Dirty Birds game..

Wow. It was close.. another nail-biter for Pats fans. And I've not seen such a poorly called game in a LONG time, the officiating was just TERRIBLE on both sides of the ball.

jelloshotsrule

Oct 11, 2005, 08:50 AM

bad officiating seems to be the theme of the week. the denver/washington game, monday night game, and now hearing about the atl/NE game.

crazy.

and of course it always seems like it goes against "your" team. hah

Applespider

Oct 11, 2005, 08:54 AM

Wow. It was close.. another nail-biter for Pats fans. And I've not seen such a poorly called game in a LONG time, the officiating was just TERRIBLE on both sides of the ball.

I'm so tired of the Patriots script. Allow a tie in the final 3 minutes, drive down the field, kick the winning field goal. We looked at each other when Finneran caught the 2 point conversion and thought 'here we go again!'
Part of me does admire the Pats, and you do create your own luck, but still, they are the jammiest sods out.

The NFC North might be a weak division although I think the Lions got cheated at Tampa last week, which would have put them at 3-1 although still with little to no offense. The Vikes are the shock in that division though. But I think the NFC West is worse. I'm not sure I can see the Cards/Niners being particularly competitive outside the division whereas at least the North has had a few competitive games against the AFC North. I'm most surprised by the strength of the NFC East where they're all giving the Eagles a run for their money.

The Colts seem finally to have got their defense together although Peyton doesn't look altogether with it for him. And I think they're the most consistently good team at the moment - parity seems most definitely the word of the day otherwise where many of the other teams (particularly in the AFC) could go either way on any given Sunday. Ah well, part of the fun of the game I guess!

yellow

Oct 11, 2005, 09:15 AM

I'm so tired of the Patriots script.

That's not the Pat's fault.. it's the fault of oh-so-many teams that let them do it time and time again.

LethalWolfe

Oct 11, 2005, 04:54 PM

Great Monday night game... I mean, when does the opposing player have a chance to recover the ball? Does it have to hit the ground?
My thoughts exactly on both counts. Bobbling the ball in your hands is one thing, having it bounce completely out of reach is quite another.

Hopefully Roethlisberger will be ok. That was a nasty hit he took to the knee, and based on the movement of the knee, it could very well be an ACL or PCL.
I read he hyper-extended his knee. Much less serious than it looked (thankfully).

The NFC East has really turned it around. At the end of last year only PHI had a winning record and today they are the only division w/o a losing team.

The Colts should finish the season very strong. The are looking the most well rounded in years and, as things look right now, they have a relatively easy schedule.

Lethal

Dave00

Oct 12, 2005, 08:18 AM

My thoughts exactly on both counts. Bobbling the ball in your hands is one thing, having it bounce completely out of reach is quite another.
I bet this is an issue that gets reviewed in the off-season. Interesting to note that Cowher apparently said it was the right call, based on the rules.

I read he hyper-extended his knee. Much less serious than it looked (thankfully).

He must just have a real tough body. That's how bad, bad injuries take place, where you foot is planted and you get hit in a joint. There's nothing to absorb the energy but the joint.

The NFC East has really turned it around. At the end of last year only PHI had a winning record and today they are the only division w/o a losing team.
Lethal
Yeah, if there's a comeback award for a division, the NFC East is it. Other than the Eagles, that was a real sorry division last year. Eli Manning is really benefitting from having Plax on the team. At least, until they finally start calling him for his push-offs.

Dave

Cfg5

Oct 12, 2005, 09:45 AM

I think Peyton Manning is finally gonna get what he needs: home field throughout the playoffs.

Cfg5

Oct 16, 2005, 07:47 PM

Denver= second best team in the AFC.

clayj

Oct 16, 2005, 09:06 PM

Ugh... Carolina won today (which is good), but Jake Delhomme continued to make DUMB mistakes which basically kept Detroit in the game... their two TDs were BOTH off Delhomme interceptions. Chris Weinke came in for the Panthers for the final drive and he drove Carolina down the field on 4 passes to Ricky Proehl for a game-winning TD.

We like winning, but the way we're doing it is VERY stressful. ;)

yellow

Oct 17, 2005, 09:04 AM

Terrible day for the good guys..

emw

Oct 17, 2005, 09:28 AM

Hey, at least the Bears won. Now if they could only play teams with 3-23 records outdoors every week.

Sayhey

Oct 17, 2005, 10:41 AM

Terrible day for the good guys..
Whatta mean? Yesterday was one of the best days for my 'Niners all season! God, I love bye weeks. :D

Dandaman

Oct 17, 2005, 01:38 PM

Denver= second best team in the AFC.

oh yeah!!

hopefully they'll play the rest of the season better than they did the last two. They were 5-1 in the last two seasons but we know how those ended up.

Man, the broncos looked really really good in the first three quarters. I actually enjoy watching their defense play now. I used to be deathly afraid of what big play they were going to give up. Can't wait to have a healthy champ bailey back. Then, we'll really dominate and hopefully be the best team in the AFC.

daniel

Cfg5

Oct 17, 2005, 01:46 PM

oh yeah!!

hopefully they'll play the rest of the season better than they did the last two. They were 5-1 in the last two seasons but we know how those ended up.

Man, the broncos looked really really good in the first three quarters. I actually enjoy watching their defense play now. I used to be deathly afraid of what big play they were going to give up. Can't wait to have a healthy champ bailey back. Then, we'll really dominate and hopefully be the best team in the AFC.

daniel

Yup, they're looking really good. The next 2 weeks they're at the Giants and at home against the Eagles. Two tough opponents but right now Denver is better than both of them.

In the last 4 games: Denver - 0 turnovers

Also...did anybody watch Tommy Maddox single-handidly(sp) lose the game for the Steelers?

Dandaman

Oct 17, 2005, 01:47 PM

In the last 4 games: Denver - 0 turnovers

shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, don't jinx them.

quigleybc

Oct 17, 2005, 03:11 PM

Cfg5

Oct 17, 2005, 04:55 PM

I've been watching F ball for a long time now

And I've seen players come out and have a bad day...

But I can't remember a worse performace than Tommy Maddox on Sunday for the Steelers.

It is just so bad because everyone else on the team got it done. it was like Tommy was on a mission to lose.

It still is eating my insides today, Overtime, we win the toss, we run the kickoff all the way back to field goal range, all we have to do is kick the f'n thing and it's over..Tommy drops it. Turnover

Not only that, we still shut down Jax offense and get the ball back!

Tommy throws a pick....game over.

I hope the Burgh can rebound from this...the rest of the team looks solid..but I think Jerome Bettis would have more success at QB than Tommy right now. He absolutely must get demoted to the back back back of the bench...

He loses games...period :(

I'm a Ravens fan...so I hope Roethlisberger is out till the day after Halloween.

watcher2001

Oct 17, 2005, 05:42 PM

I think Peyton Manning is finally gonna get what he needs: home field throughout the playoffs.

Amen to that one.. I am just worried about Nov 7 when we go play NE on MNF. That will be the true test.

Dandaman

Oct 17, 2005, 05:49 PM

I've been watching F ball for a long time now

And I've seen players come out and have a bad day...

But I can't remember a worse performace than Tommy Maddox on Sunday for the Steelers.

It is just so bad because everyone else on the team got it done. it was like Tommy was on a mission to lose.

It still is eating my insides today, Overtime, we win the toss, we run the kickoff all the way back to field goal range, all we have to do is kick the f'n thing and it's over..Tommy drops it. Turnover

Not only that, we still shut down Jax offense and get the ball back!

Tommy throws a pick....game over.

I hope the Burgh can rebound from this...the rest of the team looks solid..but I think Jerome Bettis would have more success at QB than Tommy right now. He absolutely must get demoted to the back back back of the bench...

He loses games...period :(

Yeah, that was pretty bad. If I'm correct, the fumble in overtime was a shotgun to Maddox. If that's true, why are they doing that? That's a very questionable call. I'd be calling a direct snap to Maddox, then a direct hand off to Bettis. That overtime was truly mind blowing. But still, the more the Jags win, the better that win by the Broncos over the Jags looks. :D

daniel

Cfg5

Oct 17, 2005, 07:16 PM

They weren't in shotgun...Maddox took the snap and right when he was backing up (I don't know if he was going to hand it off or throw it) he fumbled. He had a real good chance at getting it back if he would've just fallen on it, but he tried to lean over and pick it up and screwed up.

Cfg5

Oct 17, 2005, 07:20 PM

Amen to that one.. I am just worried about Nov 7 when we go play NE on MNF. That will be the true test.

Obviously it would be huge for Peyton to win in New England. However, even if they lose they probably will still get homefield. The Patriots look like a 10-6 team max. The Colts are a 13-3 team minimum.

watcher2001

Oct 18, 2005, 12:37 AM

OMFG, I can breathe now.. I was so thouroghly shocked at how poorly we played in the first Q tonight.. But to come back from 17-0 to win 45-28... Wow... And number 86 for Peyton _ marvin... Wow... I am thrilled

LethalWolfe

Oct 18, 2005, 01:55 AM

Colts definitely phoned in the first Q. They have a tendency to not play their A game when they are facing weaker teams it almost got them again this time. If Bulger didn't get hurt it would have been a different game (they still might have won, but it wouldn't have been a blowout, IMO). The Colts this year are the most well rounded I've seen them in recent memory, but they got a pretty easy season too. Jacksonville is the only team they've beaten w/a winning record and, as of today's standing, they only have 3 future games against winning teams (Bengals, Steelers, Jags).

For my 'Skins... 3 turnovers. Can't win doing that. Once again the O put up good numbers (haven't said that too much in the past 15yrs), and the D played hard. But turnovers and the inability to prevent big plays cost them again. And being in toughest Division (NFC East) just makes mistakes like those all that more damaging. If only they got to play teams like Houston or the Titans twice a season. ;)

How about Atlanta almost dropping one to the Saints? And how soon do you think the Falcons need to groom a new QB to replace Vick? 'Cause at this rate I don't see Vick last many more seasons.

Lethal

jelloshotsrule

Oct 18, 2005, 09:04 AM

lethal- did you read the article on washingtonpost.com about the arrington saga?

i still don't get why he's not in on 3rd and long.... few sacks, no turnovers... sit arrington. seems weird to me

wdlove

Oct 18, 2005, 11:24 AM

Tedy Bruschi is returning to the Patriots after his stroke. He will begin practice tomorrow. I wish him all the best. Just pray that the doctors have given him good advice.

http://www.boston.com/news/globe/

yellow

Oct 18, 2005, 11:28 AM

Tedy Bruschi is returning to the Patriots after his stroke. He will be gin practice tomorrow.

I just heard that yesterday! I just hope he doesn't get hurt. I can only assume that he's seen how devastated the NE defense is, and his help is sorely needed. But not at the expense of his health.. I mean, you can't win em all.

njstaffer

Oct 18, 2005, 11:46 AM

So, what do you guys think about Cincinnati Bengals and the situation in the AFC North?

Will the Steelers be able to make up the 2 games they're behind?

quigleybc

Oct 18, 2005, 02:46 PM

So, what do you guys think about Cincinnati Bengals and the situation in the AFC North?

Will the Steelers be able to make up the 2 games they're behind?

I think the Bengals are for real (and it's about time) The Browns are rebuilding slowwwwly. And you never know what you're going to get with the Ravens..at least until they get a good QB (they have Kordell Stewart right? I wanna see him play again, he was funny)

The Burgh...I don't know, Tommy Maddox absolutely can not be allowed to play another down in the NFL. It's as simple as that. I think I was the last Tommy fan out there, and now I've joined the Tommy haters camp.

IF Ben can come out and play well, we will go to the playoffs...Everything is clicking otherwise. Our defense in frightening...I wouldn't want to play us that's for sure. We may lose but our defense is going to hurt you all day..Just ask Harrison from the Pats.

Our number one pick Heath Miller broke out last week and now we have another weapon. And if Duce remembers that he is being payed to play then we will have four dangerous backs. I like our chances in Cinci next week, but not if turnover Tommy plays again..

We have owned the Bengals for years now, we'll see....

Dave00

Oct 18, 2005, 04:21 PM

But I can't remember a worse performace than Tommy Maddox on Sunday for the Steelers.

Oh, but see we've been spoiled. Ask Chicago or Washington fans if they've ever seen a quarterback play that badly. ;)

Agreed he had an absolutely dreadful game. He just didn't have it, there were few passes that were crisp. Part of the problem was being without Hines Ward, of course. Hopefully Ward & Big Ben will both be at full strength for Cinci, I think we'll need it. Actually I think the main thing we need to do against Cinci is promote Jerome Bettis back to starter, and just let him pound it at that run defense. Here's hoping that Johnson and his big fat mouth catch 3 passes for 8 yards. :)

Dave

Dave00

Oct 18, 2005, 04:27 PM

Amen to that one.. I am just worried about Nov 7 when we go play NE on MNF. That will be the true test.
They've had a pretty soft schedule thus far. The New England & Pittsburgh games should be big tests, and San Diego and Seattle (gasp) aren't going to be easy either. But - and here's a bold prediction - I bet they have trouble with Houston. Winless Houston against lossless Indy - I've seen this before - this is a trap game.

Dave

Dave00

Oct 18, 2005, 04:27 PM

Dave00

Oct 18, 2005, 04:31 PM

Tedy Bruschi is returning to the Patriots after his stroke. He will begin practice tomorrow. I wish him all the best. Just pray that the doctors have given him good advice.
I don't understand this at all. Now, I have no first-hand knowledge of the extent of his stroke, but with him having apparently had weakness involving his face down to his leg, it was probably an MCA stroke, which is big. And you can bleed into those. I'm a doctor, and I can't imagine telling anyone they could play professional football after a stroke. But, maybe there's more to his health history. Good luck to him though, I'd just be holding my breath if I was a family member.

Dave

Dandaman

Oct 18, 2005, 06:15 PM

I don't understand this at all. Now, I have no first-hand knowledge of the extent of his stroke, but with him having apparently had weakness involving his face down to his leg, it was probably an MCA stroke, which is big. And you can bleed into those. I'm a doctor, and I can't imagine telling anyone they could play professional football after a stroke. But, maybe there's more to his health history. Good luck to him though, I'd just be holding my breath if I was a family member.

Dave

I almost wonder if he'd be a liability to the defense. I mean, if i'm out there knowing that there's a slight chance that going into a tackle the wrong way could end my life, i would not be playing the same. But of course, i'm not teddy. I wonder if teams will try attacking teddy to see how he responds.

daniel

LethalWolfe

Oct 18, 2005, 09:02 PM

lethal- did you read the article on washingtonpost.com about the arrington saga?

i still don't get why he's not in on 3rd and long.... few sacks, no turnovers... sit arrington. seems weird to me

I've read a lot, but I don't know if I've read the article you're referring to.

If Gregg Williams thinks LaVar would be more of a liability than an asset right now I'll agree considering how good the D has been playing. Yes, getting sacks and turnovers is important, but so is consistent playing by the D. If the offense didn't cough up the ball three times in KC would columnists even have been talking about LaVar on Monday?

I was worried what would happen when they traded Champ. I was surprised to see them let go of Smoot. And I was very surprised to see them bench LaVar. But given the state of the D (especially last year when they always kept it close even though the O blew) I'm willing to give Gregg Williams the benefit of the doubt. If LaVar gives up 3 or 4 plays for everyone 1 big play he makes how much does that really help out the D in the end (aside from getting more highlight clips on ESPN)?

Lethal

yellow

Oct 19, 2005, 09:06 AM

I don't understand this at all. Now, I have no first-hand knowledge of the extent of his stroke, but with him having apparently had weakness involving his face down to his leg, it was probably an MCA stroke, which is big. And you can bleed into those. I'm a doctor, and I can't imagine telling anyone they could play professional football after a stroke.

Apparently he had a small hole between 2 ventricles of his heart, which allowed a blood clot to pass through one side, into his aorta and headed to his brain. They've since repaired the hole and he is supposed to be 100%. Supposed to me. As a Pats fan, I am wicked psyched to have Tedy back. As a compassionate human being, I am worried that he's going to get seriously injured or worse.

jelloshotsrule

Oct 19, 2005, 09:40 AM

If Gregg Williams thinks LaVar would be more of a liability than an asset right now I'll agree considering how good the D has been playing. Yes, getting sacks and turnovers is important, but so is consistent playing by the D. If the offense didn't cough up the ball three times in KC would columnists even have been talking about LaVar on Monday?

while i hear you, i would also point out that their solid d has given up, what, 3 big plays in 2 games? the offensive turnovers killed them, but they still scored enough to have a chance (the fumble touchdown was obviously the worst). but then you give up the play to priest for 60+ yards. some good blocks, but also some bad defense. and lavar's speed may very well have helped catch up to priest downfield, and then the tatum bell plays...

but i do tend to agree that the coaches get the benefit of the doubt. i still would like to see him on 3rd and longs. as some qb's have said around the league, they have to know where he is on the field before the snap. that mental edge could help disrupt things even before the play starts.

the article i was talking about was here (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/10/15/AR2005101500581.html)

Dave00

Oct 19, 2005, 10:32 AM

Apparently he had a small hole between 2 ventricles of his heart, which allowed a blood clot to pass through one side, into his aorta and headed to his brain. They've since repaired the hole and he is supposed to be 100%. Supposed to me. As a Pats fan, I am wicked psyched to have Tedy back. As a compassionate human being, I am worried that he's going to get seriously injured or worse.
Sounds like a septal defect, which is definitely a risk factor for stroke. The thing is, the repair of the defect will help prevent another embolic stroke (where a blood clot starts somewhere else, and travels to the brain) but won't do anything about a hemorrhagic stroke, which is where you bleed into the brain. I have seen several cases of people having had embolic strokes, and eventually having bleeding into the area after a subsequent fall. I can't imagine football is less traumatic than a fall, even with the helmet.

I guess I sort of feel like it's one thing if it's your knee, or your ankle, or whatever - you play football, you know your joints and muscles are going to get messed up. But when you're talking about your brain, that's alot of what makes you who you are. I like that he's a competitor, even though for a team that has done so much to the steelers, but I wish he were smarter about this. God be with 'im.

Dave

wdlove

Oct 19, 2005, 04:26 PM

Now that the doctors have cleared him, which we have to trust their opinion. My prayers go you to him for health and safety.

LethalWolfe

Oct 19, 2005, 10:27 PM

while i hear you, i would also point out that their solid d has given up, what, 3 big plays in 2 games? the offensive turnovers killed them, but they still scored enough to have a chance (the fumble touchdown was obviously the worst). but then you give up the play to priest for 60+ yards. some good blocks, but also some bad defense. and lavar's speed may very well have helped catch up to priest downfield, and then the tatum bell plays...

but i do tend to agree that the coaches get the benefit of the doubt. i still would like to see him on 3rd and longs. as some qb's have said around the league, they have to know where he is on the field before the snap. that mental edge could help disrupt things even before the play starts.

the article i was talking about was here (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/10/15/AR2005101500581.html)

Cool, thanks for the link. That was a very good article (much better a lot of the op/ed sports writer crap I've read recently).

I would love to see LaVar in there playing. If he would play the way Gregg Williams needs him to play (which is LB's staying at home & playing smart so the secondary can blitz) I think it would make the D better than it is now. But if LaVar can't stop freelancing he's gonna let the 'Skins D get burned. Making one big play won't make up for the 3 big plays he may give up. Like a player said in the article you linked to, LaVar's freelancing probably cost the 'Skins 3 games in '03.

I hate "what if'ing" games 'cause changing one play changes everything that came after that play, but in the two losses Washington had a total of 4 turnovers (all fumbles) and each turnover resulted in points of the other team. W/out the points from those turnovers Washington would have won the game. The 'Skins D is 8th in the league in points allowed. Their O is only 25th in the league in points scored. Currently the lowest of any team w/a winning record.

Although the O has started looking much better this season than last they still aren't there yet. I think we really need a strong win against the 49er's get the team's confidence up as well as give the O a good chance to really get into a groove. Who knows, maybe if the 'Skins shut down the 49er's we'll see Williams put in LaVar late in the game to "test the waters."

Granted they need to make turnovers, but pointing to the D saying, "Hey, you guys need to do more" is a bit unfair, IMO.

Lethal

Dandaman

Oct 23, 2005, 11:30 PM

jelloshotsrule

Oct 23, 2005, 11:33 PM

watcher2001

Oct 24, 2005, 12:21 AM

I am sooo mad at CBS, actually my local affiliate... I live in Louisville KY. About 100 miles south of Indianapolis and 90 miles west of Cincinnati. Normally our local station makes it a point to carry the Colts game however today they decided to show the cinci pittsburgh game.. I understand why they did it, assuming the Colts game was going to be a blowout and that the cinci pitts game would be more entertaining.. But still... Thanks for letting me rant.:)

Applespider

Oct 24, 2005, 03:40 AM

the redskins put on an offensive show today. it was awesome to watch (most of) it.

I suspect, with my Niners hat on, I'd have found it quite painful. I'll say that before you glorify the Skins too much, they were playing the Niners :rolleyes:

Having said that, Brunell does appear to have a new lease of life and has really made a connection with Santana Moss. I prefer the Skins to most of those in the NFC East so long may it continue (especially since I had the foresight to pick up Brunell for my fantasy team :) )

LethalWolfe

Oct 24, 2005, 06:16 AM

the redskins put on an offensive show today. it was awesome to watch (most of) it.

and arrington was back out there, leading the team in tackles.

looking forward to the big division game (vs. giants) next weekend.

At least once a week I'll see a team from the NFC East on TV out here (Los Angeles), but they never seem to air the 'Skins games (save for MNF). Glad to read that LaVar got some playing time. Hopefully this means him and Williams are on the same page now and we'll be seeing him every Sunday. Hopefully they'll be able to carry the momentum w/them 'cause they have one hell of a schedule.

Anyone see the Dallas/Seattle game? I only caught the last 3 minutes but that seemed to be the best 3 minutes of the game. :D

Lethal

MrSugar

Oct 24, 2005, 06:55 AM

ARGHHHHHH

Sorry, i usually don't complain about refs but there were some lousy non-calls in that NYG vs. Denver game. Now, i know the broncos should have stopped the Giants, but cmon!! The refs blew that game.

But then again, the last time the Broncos won the super bowl, they lost to two teams....Miami and the NYG. :D

daniel

Man, the game made me want to cry my eyes out. I was so angry afterwards, I couldn't even focus. All we can hope is that the Broncos don't repeat the last two seasons now that they are at 5 and 2.

on a positive note, my fantasy football team is 7 and 0.

Dave00

Oct 24, 2005, 09:06 AM

Anybody see the end of that Phillie/San Diego game? Wow. The fire alarm in the stadium going off during the last 3 minutes just added to the surreal atmosphere.

Pittsburgh obviously has Cinci's #. They always have.

Well, I made the prediction that Houston would give Indy a game, and they did - for a while. I can't see Indy not getting home field advantage throughout the playoffs now. They just don't have enough difficult games left on their schedule, although the stretch of 3 worthy opponents in 4 games (NE, Pittsburgh, and Cinci) could prove to be a test. I'd say they'd have to lose at least 2 of these games though to have any chance of not getting home field advantage.

Dave

Jomoma

Oct 24, 2005, 09:26 AM

I was watching the Eagles game. As a huge Eagles fan, I watch as many games as I can out here in Cincinnati. I seem to remember a fire alarm problem last year too. Anyone else remember that?

It was a great game to watch though. I was chanting at the screen to "block the kick, block the kick, block the kick" When it actually happened, I went crazy.

It was definately a great weekend for the NFL. So many close games.

Dandaman

Oct 24, 2005, 09:57 AM

Man, the game made me want to cry my eyes out. I was so angry afterwards, I couldn't even focus. All we can hope is that the Broncos don't repeat the last two seasons now that they are at 5 and 2.

on a positive note, my fantasy football team is 7 and 0.

Man, thinking of that game makes me sooooo mad. They always lose that dreaded seventh game. I guess the refs made sure of that :mad:

Let's hope they make this season different by beating the eagles.

daniel

Dave00

Oct 24, 2005, 10:12 AM

Dandaman

Oct 24, 2005, 11:38 AM

(I'm sorry, I still can't see the Seahawks as a good team, not until they actually finish a season strong.)

Dave

Haha, i tell everyone that Seattle's always either an 8-8 team or a first-round loser in the playoffs.

daniel

jelloshotsrule

Oct 24, 2005, 11:51 AM

I'll say that before you glorify the Skins too much, they were playing the Niners :rolleyes:

but they didn't play down at all, and considering everyone thought they were a mediocre or bad offense, they certainly didn't play like it, whether sf's defense sucks or not. after all, i don't believe other teams have put up 50 on the 9ers thus far...? i don't think that this is some sort of huge win, but it's a solid blowout, with several strong moves in the positive direction on both sides of the ball. can't wait for sunday's big game.

LethalWolfe

Oct 24, 2005, 06:05 PM

So how about parity this year? Last year the AFC was just so much better than the NFC. This year, only 6 AFC teams with winning records, while the NFC has 8 (four in the East alone!) Of course, of the very top teams, the AFC still looks better. I can't see any NFC team beating the Colts or Steelers, and probably not Cincinatti or Denver (the latter's late-game defeat to NYG notwithstanding). But the Giants and Tampa Bay look very strong. (I'm sorry, I still can't see the Seahawks as a good team, not until they actually finish a season strong.)

Dave

I'm still suspect of the Colts. They've only played one team w/a winning record so far, and their past two games they haven't dominated like their record implies they should. I think there are better teams but w/worse records because of tougher schedules. Same w/Tampa Bay. They have a "soft" 5-1 record. And the Bangles have only played two winning teams so far (and lost both games).

Seattle may have some inconsistent play at times, but they've beat some good teams to be 5-2. Denver is a very strong team IMO, and I don't think any NFC East team can be discounted.

There are a lot of teams that may not be solid, but if you play down to them they'll beat you. St. Louis is one, IMO. I think MNF last week woulda come down to the wire if Bulger didn't go out early.

It's a very exciting season. Hopefully it stays that way and teams don't start imploding down the stretch. At least not teams I like. ;)

Lethal

quigleybc

Oct 24, 2005, 07:53 PM

Nice

Burgh comes out and shuts all the critics up

Cinci this and Cinci that....they're still the Bengals...end of story

They didn't really offer that much competition..considering it was in Cinci

Bugh is looking at four winable games now...Ravens, GB, Browns, Ravens, finally the schedule mellows out a litte...we should go 4-0 through those games..then we get Indi in the dome on MNF

****

well, it'll be a test...something the colts havn't had all year hardly...I mean Texans. SF. big challenges there...

So, let's go Burgh!!

Cfg5

Oct 24, 2005, 08:48 PM

The Bengals are good...but not great. The can't beat teams with a good defense and good running game (see Jacksonville and Pittsburgh).

clayj

Oct 24, 2005, 09:00 PM

I really, really HATE the Vicks... er, the Falcons. So it's kinda ticking me off that the Jets are doing everything they can to help the Falcons win... they're leading 17-0, and ALL of those points have come after Jets turnovers. :mad:

Any of you who are Jets fans can explain what the heck is wrong with your team tonight?

LethalWolfe

Oct 24, 2005, 09:23 PM

The Bengals are good...but not great. The can't beat teams with a good defense and good running game (see Jacksonville and Pittsburgh).

or winning records. ;)

Lethal

Dave00

Oct 25, 2005, 09:28 AM

And the Bangles have only played two winning teams so far (and lost both games).
Bangles. That's good, a new one. We've always called 'em the Bungles. I don't think they have enough to win the division - I think that goes to Pittsburgh - but I bet they are one of the top two wild cards.

Seattle may have some inconsistent play at times, but they've beat some good teams to be 5-2. Denver is a very strong team IMO, and I don't think any NFC East team can be discounted.
Seattle just has that track record as an organization. They definitely have the talent. And Denver has been similar, the last couple of years. They look like a million bucks out of the gate, and then they stumble in the second half of the season. For some reason, every year there seems to be a few teams that start strong, then fall off at the end, and never go far in the playoffs, if they even make the postseason. And there's also a team or two that started slow, then won like crazy, and they typically go far in the playoffs.

Denver and Seattle are the usual suspects as far as strong starts and weak finishes. (Minnesota seems like they are finally putting together a consistent season, unfortunately it's a consistently bad team instead of a team that finishes a strong start.) About the only team I can see right now with a losing record that has a good chance of making the playoffs is San Diego... they may be the strongest 3-4 team of all time. Every team they've played, with the exception of Oakland, has a winning record. They destroyed New England and the Giants. Three games have been against division leaders, and that's not counting Pittsburgh, or the two remaining games against division leaders (Washington & Indy). They play the NFC East, the AFC East, their division, and their two at-large teams? Pittsburgh & Indy. Talk about a bad draw. It's just a question of whether they can overcome the bad schedule to get a playoff spot (probably between them & Jax for the last wild card). If they do, watch out.

Dave

Dave00

Oct 25, 2005, 09:57 AM

looking at four winable games now...Ravens, GB, Browns, Ravens, finally the schedule mellows out a litte...we should go 4-0 through those games..then we get Indi in the dome on MNF

The Ravens games aren't going to be easy - they never are, despite the poor play offensively, they're still capable of scoring a touchdown or two on defense. Those games'll probably have baseball scores - 6-5, 9-7, that kind of thing. You can never count out Favre, either, despite their woeful injury situation. But, yes, the schedulers have been kind to the Steelers for the remaining schedule, the only difficult ones left are Cinci and Indy (although Chicago could be another defensive slugfest, easily could have most of the points scored on defense.)

Dave

clayj

Oct 30, 2005, 04:02 PM

LethalWolfe

Oct 30, 2005, 05:07 PM

FINALLY, the Panthers put up a victory they can be proud of... 38-13 over the struggling Vikings. Daunte Culpepper went out with a sprain, and Steve Smith caught over 200 yards (franchise record).

Sorry for Mike Tice, but I think this blowout will be the final nail in his coffin.

Oh, and the Texans beat the Browns today... no winless teams left.

So they finally got a solid win against a sucky team as opposed to barely beating or losing to sucky teams. Congrats. ;)

And I *finally* get a 'Skins game on TV out here and it has to be one where they get their @sses handed to them. That game was just painful to watch.

Lethal

stubeeef

Oct 30, 2005, 07:12 PM

FINALLY, the Panthers put up a victory they can be proud of... 38-13 over the struggling Vikings. Daunte Culpepper went out with a sprain, and Steve Smith caught over 200 yards (franchise record).

Sorry for Mike Tice, but I think this blowout will be the final nail in his coffin.

Oh, and the Texans beat the Browns today... no winless teams left.

AND tampa bay lost! A very good week! If we can just get a road kill in TB next week, we can break out of the pack!

I went to Carowinds with the kids today and was dying to get the score, almost called ya to find out, knew you would be at the game.

clayj

Oct 30, 2005, 07:15 PM

AND tampa bay lost! A very good week! If we can just get a road kill in TB next week, we can break out of the pack!

I went to Carowinds with the kids today and was dying to get the score, almost called ya to find out, knew you would be at the game.Tampa looked like CRAP today... if they play the way they did today next Sunday, and if the Panthers stick to today's game plan, the Panthers should be able to beat them. The injuries that plagued us LAST season seem to be going after everyone else (Vikes, TB, GB, etc.) this season.

Loved this line I just heard during the gamecast: "7:30 left before the misery is over for Minnesota." Methinks the misery is just getting good for the Vikes.

Applespider

Oct 30, 2005, 08:24 PM

AND tampa bay lost! A very good week! If we can just get a road kill in TB next week, we can break out of the pack!

Yeah... I was dreading my annual Niners game this year (particularly since I was making it to two of them) since I figured it might be less painful just to stick needles in my eyes... but I was pleasantly surprised with a win - and my friend won the 'bus' pool for the combined score and came home $50 up

But yeah, Tampa looked dreadful. Chris Simms was appalling - he underthrew some passes badly out to the sideline.

Cfg5

Oct 31, 2005, 12:19 AM

Dandaman

Oct 31, 2005, 12:28 AM

When the Broncos play good, they're almost unbeatable. They need to keep a strong hold of these leads though, they're lettin' some teams come back.

Tatum Bell and Mike Anderson are on pace for 1,000 yards each!

I was so scared in the third quarter. "Not again!" was running through my head. It was great seeing the team turning it around in the fourth quarter. Champ's gotta fully heal his hammy and man what a play by Foxworth. 6-2 going into the bye is very good. Maybe they can work out their third quarter woes during their week off.

daniel

crdean1

Oct 31, 2005, 09:21 AM

What a great Cowboy game yesterday!!! Anyone watch?

(kind of a stupid question in the NFL Thread...)

jelloshotsrule

Oct 31, 2005, 09:28 AM

And I *finally* get a 'Skins game on TV out here and it has to be one where they get their @sses handed to them. That game was just painful to watch.

good. god.

i'm going back into mourning now. soooooo pathetic.

emw

Oct 31, 2005, 09:58 AM

stubeeef

Oct 31, 2005, 11:35 AM

Oh, and the Bears are quietly on top of the anemic NFC North after slipping by Detroit yesterday in OT.

As has become typical, about 4 exciting plays and 50 minutes of boredom. But Orton threw for 230 yards, which was a nice effort. Perhaps things are starting to gel a little bit on offense.

DAAAaaa BEEAAaaarzzzzzz!:)

clayj

Oct 31, 2005, 11:37 AM

iRachel

Oct 31, 2005, 07:26 PM

emw

Oct 31, 2005, 09:27 PM

It's really disturbing to think that a team from the NFC North could get into the playoffs with a 7-9 record or something idiotic like that.Little early to be worried about that. :rolleyes:

clayj

Oct 31, 2005, 09:36 PM

Little early to be worried about that. :rolleyes:Well, it's unlikely we'll have to worry about a wildcard slot going to the NFC North. Looks pretty much like it's going to be the NFC East and NFC South fighting for those two slots. (So far.)

Cfg5

Oct 31, 2005, 09:40 PM

The Bears are playing very good. They're playin' good D, and running the ball. They'll be in every game.

Dave00

Nov 1, 2005, 08:40 AM

6-2 going into the bye is very good. Maybe they can work out their third quarter woes during their week off.

Denver looked very, very good. They're now officially "for real". We'll see what happens down the stretch...

Dave

emw

Nov 1, 2005, 09:15 AM

Well, it's unlikely we'll have to worry about a wildcard slot going to the NFC North. Looks pretty much like it's going to be the NFC East and NFC South fighting for those two slots. (So far.)
That I'll agree with. I think that there will be one team (the Bears) that will be just good enough to come out on top with something like a 9-7 record.

Dandaman

Nov 1, 2005, 09:36 AM

That I'll agree with. I think that there will be one team (the Bears) that will be just good enough to come out on top with something like a 9-7 record.

This team will get into the playoffs this season, but watch out next season. They got most of their players on defense on contracts through the next two years, they have a rookie quarterback who looks like he can manage a game, a potentially great 1-2 punch running game with benson and jones, and some good receivers in Muhammad and potentially Bradley. Give this team this year to grow and develop this year and next year, they could be very good.

daniel

Dave00

Nov 1, 2005, 11:28 AM

quigleybc

Nov 1, 2005, 01:09 PM

Steelers... ugh, what happened to the "D"? I think they were just a little overconfident going into the game. At least they got the W.

I'm really tormented over who to root for in the next Monday night game (NE vs. Indy). If Indy loses and Pittsburgh manages to beat them in a few weeks, Pittsburgh has a chance for home-field advantage. If Indy wins, it's hard to imagine a scenario where they don't get home-field. But, I can't bring myself to root for NE, especially since they've been the Achille's heel for the Steelers. (And the only team to beat Ben Roethlisberger - and they've done it twice.)

Dave

A good post,

What happened to the D? Well that Wright guy played well, Balitmore played well..They were extremely fired up for that game...But it didn't matter..

Game ball has to go to Heath or Ben...I think Heath can be something special.

Good point on not knowing who to route for...I just will never be able to root for the Patriots...ever...Let Indi have home field advantage...God knows it hasn't helped the Burgh ever...

GO BURGH

!!!

yellow

Nov 3, 2005, 03:36 PM

Welcome back (with distinction) Tedy Bruschi!

jelloshotsrule

Nov 3, 2005, 04:59 PM

Skins game

so i got some tickets from a friend to see the skins/eagles this sunday. please let it be at least a good game. last time i saw them match up was about 2002..... UGLY

clayj

Nov 3, 2005, 05:13 PM

so i got some tickets from a friend to see the skins/eagles this sunday. please let it be at least a good game. last time i saw them match up was about 2002..... UGLYI hope the Redskins get their act together and beat the Iggles on Sunday night... not that I'm a Redskins fan (I used to pull for the Cowboys before the Panthers came into existence), but the Iggles are only marginally less evil than that most evil of football teams, the Atlanta Vicks... er, I mean Falcons.

LethalWolfe

Nov 3, 2005, 06:08 PM

so i got some tickets from a friend to see the skins/eagles this sunday. please let it be at least a good game. last time i saw them match up was about 2002..... UGLY

Sense this is on ESPN I'll be able to watch it (woohoo, 2 'Skins games in a row). I think it's gonna be a tough fight that comes down to the wire. Both teams are banged up and, IMO, consider this a season defining game.

The 'Skins have played more consistent ball so far this season, but the Eagles have "surged" enough in games to win them (or almost win them) even if their play hasn't been consistently good.

To win I think the 'Skins need to come out hard 'n fast, dominate the first half and build a good lead that can survive the 2nd half rally the Eagles will have. It'll be kinda like the battle of the bulge. If the 'Skins can bend but not break they'll win. But if they can't contain the Eagle's 2nd half surge I think Philly will win.

Should be a good game. Although I said that about the giants game too.:cool:

On a side note, I'm glad to see LaVar getting to a point where he's getting more field time. This is one reason why I like him so much. Link (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylt=AsYpCB4AScI_5n5GUPpEe2Gb2bYF?slug=ap-redskins-arrington&prov=ap&type=lgns)

Lethal

watcher2001

Nov 3, 2005, 08:36 PM

so i got some tickets from a friend to see the skins/eagles this sunday. please let it be at least a good game. last time i saw them match up was about 2002..... UGLY

Must be one heck of a friend.

LethalWolfe

Nov 3, 2005, 09:46 PM

clayj

Nov 3, 2005, 09:53 PM

Obviously there is a lot of talk about the big MNF game coming up, but am I the only person that thinks the Colts aren't as good as their record shows? I mean, any okay team w/their schedule is going to be at least 5-2. As of current standings Jacksonville is the only team w/a winning record the Colts have beat. St. Louis is next at .500. And the other teams (Cleveland, Baltimore, Houston, Tennessee, San Fran,) they've played are just out right horrible (only 9 combined wins for those 5 teams).

I like Manning, and being from Indy it's been nice to see the Colts not suck (like they did for the first 15yrs or so they were in Indy), but all of the "Colts are the greatest thing since sliced bread" stuff is getting old. Considering their schedule if the Colt's *weren't* 7-0 I would be surprised.

LethalI think the Colts are definitely vulnerable... their offense is not as prolific at scoring as it was last year, but their defense HAS improved... but still, it seems like a house of cards where if even one thing goes wrong, they can be beaten. Of course, it doesn't hurt that they've mostly played against crap teams. The Pats should give them a challenge, but I really think we're seeing the tail end of the Patriots' dynasty...

Dandaman

Nov 3, 2005, 10:39 PM

I hope the Redskins get their act together and beat the Iggles on Sunday night... not that I'm a Redskins fan (I used to pull for the Cowboys before the Panthers came into existence), but the Iggles are only marginally less evil than that most evil of football teams, the Atlanta Vicks... er, I mean Falcons.

I hope the Redskins lose.

As Redskins losses go up, the Broncos 1st round draft pick goes up :D

daniel

jelloshotsrule

Nov 4, 2005, 07:44 AM

Must be one heck of a friend.

well it's a friend's dad who has season tickets, and since it's a night game, it'd run too late for him with work the next day. he was excited to give them to us. hah

yeah, i just want it to be a good game. i'd love for the skins to beat em bad, because i'll be going with a friend who is an obnoxious eagles fan who is so sure the redskins suck that it makes me want to punch him. so..

i haven't seen the colts play much this year, but based on their schedule and some closeish, i'd certainly expect them to have several losses when they play some tougher teams.

watcher2001

Nov 4, 2005, 01:47 PM

I think the Colts are definitely vulnerable... their offense is not as prolific at scoring as it was last year, but their defense HAS improved... but still, it seems like a house of cards where if even one thing goes wrong, they can be beaten. Of course, it doesn't hurt that they've mostly played against crap teams. The Pats should give them a challenge, but I really think we're seeing the tail end of the Patriots' dynasty...

Their offense is not as prolific as it was last year by design, not flaw. The fact that their offense was so good last year played a large part in their defense being so bad last year. When the defense is on the field for 15 minutes trying to stop a driving offense then have to come back on the field 2 minutes later because Peyton drove down field and scored it is bound to wear you out. I think the Colts offense is stll as strong as it has ever been but they are playing it back a notch to give the defense equal time.

Yes the Colts have had a relatively easy road so far and I think we are going to have a tough fight with NE and probably an even tougher time with Pittsburgh 3 weeks later. ( I will be at that game). If they lose those two games that should be it. Beyond that it is a pretty easy road to the super bowl.

LethalWolfe

Nov 4, 2005, 09:22 PM

Their offense is not as prolific as it was last year by design, not flaw. The fact that their offense was so good last year played a large part in their defense being so bad last year. When the defense is on the field for 15 minutes trying to stop a driving offense then have to come back on the field 2 minutes later because Peyton drove down field and scored it is bound to wear you out. I think the Colts offense is stll as strong as it has ever been but they are playing it back a notch to give the defense equal time.
I have to disagree slightly. Indy's D in the past has been bad just 'cause it's been bad. It's not like they got tired and were bad just in the last 20 minutes of a game. They were equally bad throughout the whole game. And, for whatever reason, they have gelled and are a good unit this year.

Yes the Colts have had a relatively easy road so far and I think we are going to have a tough fight with NE and probably an even tougher time with Pittsburgh 3 weeks later. ( I will be at that game). If they lose those two games that should be it. Beyond that it is a pretty easy road to the super bowl.
I think NE will give them a game, but w/how beat up they are I dunno if they have enough left to win. If Ben is healthy I think the Steelers will beat the Colts. I also think San Diego and Seattle can beat the Colts (assuming nothing drastic changes between now and then). Cincy... that's a toss up. They're 6-2 and have had a schedule nearly as easy as the Colts, but I think Indy is the better team.

The Colts have a easy road to the Playoffs, but I don't think they'll have an easy road to the Superbowl. If they were 7-0 against mainly playoff-bound teams I would agree w/you, but since they are 7-0 against mainly losers I have my doubts. ;)

Lethal

clayj

Nov 5, 2005, 01:26 PM

LethalWolfe

Nov 5, 2005, 03:45 PM

iRachel

Nov 5, 2005, 08:05 PM

Terrell Owens of the Eagles suspended indefinitely:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/9919494/

Anyone who's surprised that T.O. has turned into the full-blown cancer most of us already knew him to be, raise your hands.

No one?

Color me surprised.

I like the headline on ESPN.com..."Open Mouth, Insert Bench."

jiv3turkey748

Nov 5, 2005, 08:35 PM

Terrell Owens of the Eagles suspended indefinitely:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/9919494/

Anyone who's surprised that T.O. has turned into the full-blown cancer most of us already knew him to be, raise your hands.

No one?

Color me surprised.

T.O. is an idiot once his contract is up (or once the eagles get rid of him) no other teams are going to want him, because hes too much trouble

Cfg5

Nov 5, 2005, 10:07 PM

T.O. is an idiot once his contract is up (or once the eagles get rid of him) no other teams are going to want him, because hes too much trouble

Someone will pick him up.

clayj

Nov 5, 2005, 10:39 PM

Someone will pick him up.The Raiders will definitely consider picking him up... it seems like they've never seen a player with character flaws they didn't like. ;)

Aarow

Nov 5, 2005, 10:42 PM

Go Vikings!? Should I be rooting for these guys, are they doing any good?

clayj

Nov 5, 2005, 11:00 PM

Go Vikings!? Should I be rooting for these guys, are they doing any good?Well, you're from Minnesoter, so it sounds like you're a Vikes fan... but they're 2-5, they've just lost their QB for the season (thanks to my Panthers), they've got a big sex scandal in progress, and the head coach and coaching staff have already boxed up their stuff in anticipation of being canned any day now by the new owner, Zygi Wilf (which sounds like a character name from Dune).

What do you think? :p

Applespider

Nov 6, 2005, 01:52 AM

Terrell Owens of the Eagles suspended indefinitely:

I'm not surprised but since he's on my fantasy team, I'm darned annoyed! :rolleyes:

clayj

Nov 6, 2005, 03:09 PM

Panthers put the smackdown on the Bucs, 34-14. Sweet!

Sadly, THIS happened last night:

TAMPA - - Two Carolina Panthers cheerleaders were arrested early Sunday morning at a Tampa nightclub.

According to a police report Kristen Lanier Owen, 22, and Angela Ellen Keathley, 26, were arrested after an incident at Banana Joe's in the city's Channelside district at 2:10 a.m. One cheerleader was charged with battery, the other with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

The police report claims the two cheerleaders were having sex with each other in a stall at the bar when other patrons got angry they were taking so long in the bathroom.

Owen and another person started arguing and Owen hit that person in the face, according to the report. Keathley was escorted from Banana Joe's and the police report said she was so drunk she could barely stand and described her as rude and belligerent with police.

Other Panthers cheerleaders bailed Owen and Keathley out of the Orient Road Jail late Sunday morning.

The cheerleaders made the trip to Tampa on their own. Cheerleaders are on the sidelines only at home games. Team officials at Sunday afternoon's game said they were aware of the report, but declined further comment.
Here are the two cheerleaders in question:

Kristen: http://www.panthers.com/photos/perm/main/FLPGEOOGOEDL/kristen_body05.jpg

Angela: http://www.panthers.com/photos/perm/main/FLPGEOOGOEDL/angela_body05.jpg

I wouldn't be surprised if these two find themselves removed from the cheerleader squad (the TopCats) upon their return to Charlotte.

2nyRiggz

Nov 6, 2005, 03:13 PM

damn, Jets were so close, they played tough.....at the end was a crusher.

bless

LethalWolfe

Nov 6, 2005, 03:32 PM

damn, Jets were so close, they played tough.....at the end was a crusher.

bless

I was surprised the game came down to the wire like that. Good rally by the Jets but one hell of a play by Jammer (SD CB) at the end there. He kept his eye on the receiver the whole time and waited until he "saw the ball in the receiver's eyes" before making his move. Reminded me of Darrell Green (DB 'Skins-retired). Green rarely, if ever, took his eyes off the receiver. He would watch the receiver's eyes and when Green saw the receiver's eyes "lock on" to the ball he would make his move. Beautfil to watch and it helped let Green successfully defend taller players (he was only 5' 9").

Lethal

LethalWolfe

Nov 6, 2005, 03:33 PM

clayj,

Nice link. I'm glad TB lost, and I'd be made too if a pair of hot cheerleaders were doing each other and hogging the bathroom. If only because I wouldn't be able to watch. :D

Lethal

jelloshotsrule

Nov 7, 2005, 08:18 AM

well we had awesome seats at the game... lowest level, around the 40 yard line, behind the skins bench... besides the drunken idiots that give humanity a bad name that were in front of us, the game was great! not the flashiest of games or the biggest of wins, but it was a good win anyways. it was awesome to see lavar in action, getting a few big tackles for losses, and seeing him and marcus washington dancing to the stadium music before a play to get all pumped up.

as another note on lavar... i saw him, during a timeout, give his water bottle to a ref to share it... just a subtle little thing that seemed cool about him

the next few games will be interesting for the skins... hopefully they can keep tampa bay down when they've slipped.