Here Today... Gone To Hell!

 ;D


Coop

Just realized we didnt have the new thread started yet


Coop

So does anyone think that if the Saints pick-up Parcells they may have a chance to do something this year?


Coop

I think they would have been better off with Payton. This is a rapidly changing league and Parcells hasn't won a playoff game since 1998. I think he was a good coach but he doesn't have some wizard's touch. He got good players and built good teams.

I would have to agree with you...you would think that they would bring someone younger or with at least more current experience...but I also know it's a limited-time job so that makes it harder to bring just anybody in. I'm curious to see how Payton's appeal goes.


Coop

It seems like only a matter of time before there will be a movie based on the life of Brett Favre. A larger-than-life gunslinger who became a football ironman after being given up on by the Atlanta Falcons after one year, he's right out of central casting -- from the ability to play injured to his southern drawl to his love of playing the game.

A documentary film -- Last Day At Lambeau -- by first-time director Michael Neelsen is scheduled to debut at the annual Wisconsin Film Festival next month as one of the headline feature films of the festival.

The documentary, which will be shown to festival judges at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, at the Manona Terrace in Madison, depicts the ugly divorce between the Packers and Favre, who came out of retirement and forced the hand of the Packers to either trade him or release him. The trade to the Jets, which was tied up with a clause that would make New York compensate the Packers with a pair of first-round picks if they traded Favre to the Vikings, only cemented the animosity. It covers the time span from early 2008 when Favre threw his last pass as a Packer -- an interception in overtime that led to the Giants' game-winning field goal that sent them to the Super Bowl -- until Oct. 24, 2010, Favre's last pass thrown at Lambeau Field, which was an incompletion that skidded off the hands of Randy Moss to end a furious comeback.

The film has been described as "even-handed" -- neither lionizing nor vilifying Favre or the process that led to his exodus from Green Bay. That isn't an easy proposition, since Favre is as identifiable with anyone in Packer history with the exception of Vince Lombardi.

The documentary is centered more around how fans of the NFL identify with players and the feeling that they are somehow members of their own extended family, as opposed to the hard-and-fast business decisions made by NFL executives when it comes to molding the future of the franchise. The film doesn't deal with the gamble the Packers (rightly) took in putting their confidence in Aaron Rodgers, but deals much more with the love-hate relationship fans have with their heroes.

The film will includes interviews conducted with Packers radio play-by-play man Wayne Larrivee and Vikings play-by-play man Paul Allen -- two men with the same job, but on the opposite side of the NFC North Mason-Dixon line.

Like him. Love him. Hate him. Favre is an icon for a reason. Years from now, Hollywood might put his story on celluloid. Until then, the Palme d'Or of the Wisconsin Film Festival awaits. Favre may not be playing, but his biopic is.

http://www.foxsportsnorth.com/03/25/12/New-Favre-documentary-to-debut/landing_mnvikings.html?blockID=695658&feedID=3697 (http://www.foxsportsnorth.com/03/25/12/New-Favre-documentary-to-debut/landing_mnvikings.html?blockID=695658&feedID=3697)

It's been a banner week for Donovan McNabb.

On Thursday, the unemployed quarterback told ESPN's "First Take" that his former team, the Redskins, were bound to destroy Robert Griffin III, the Baylor quarterback they're expected to select with the No. 2 pick in April's draft. A cranky McNabb left no stones unturned in unpacking for us why Mike Shanahan is less of a genius and more of a quarterback killer, running an offense that will only temper RG3's wild gifts.

One day later, McNabb reappeared on the show to unleash a heat-seeking diatribe against Tim Tebow.

McNabb urged the newest member of the Jets to tone down his recent spree of feel-good tweets and focus on football. (Tebow's issued a grand total of eight tweets since being traded from the Broncos to the Jets, an output that probably took all of 280 seconds.)

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d827fede9/article/hotandbothered-mcnabb-rips-redskins-tebow?module=HP11_hot_topics (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d827fede9/article/hotandbothered-mcnabb-rips-redskins-tebow?module=HP11_hot_topics)

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith joined in the search for missing California teenager Sierra LaMar on Saturday, Bay Area News Group reported.

Smith and 580 other volunteers searched for the 15-year-old, who disappeared March 16 while on her way to school in Morgan Hill, a city located southeast of San Jose.

"He wasn't there for attention. He was there to search," said Marc Klaas, founder of the KlaasKids Foundation. "It was about his heart. It's certainly a touching thing, and it's a huge thing, too. By showing up, he provided a value that went well beyond his own presence as a searcher."

Klaas confirmed that Smith was part of the search. Smith brought food and water, then helped look through the fields, hills and neighborhoods that are within a 20-mile radius of the teen's home.

"For somebody of that stature to take his own initiative and do something like this, to show that he cares about the family and the community, I'm just thrilled, and I imagine Sierra LaMar's family is, too," Klaas said. "It shows you the kind of person Alex Smith must be."

Smith recently agreed to return to the 49ers rather than sign with another team as a free agent. The quarterback threw for 3,144 yards and 17 touchdowns while leading the team to the NFC Championship Game.


Coop

Thanks Coop...now I feel guilty for calling this guy a choke who cost you a shot at a Super Bowl appearance last season!   :hihi:

I don't think Alex Smith was returning kicks for us in that game...you may want to recheck that.

Besides it's nice to see someone do something for their community rich or not


P.S. Hope your ready to have AP back on IR after we play you this season...lol  ;)

Everyone see the new Nike uniforms? Thoughts?

They look pretty much the same other than Seattle. The actual merch is of much higher quality...I'm waiting to see all the shirts and hats and stuff...I do like the new gloves tho


Coop

The gloves are being raved about by sportscasters on espn.

Yeah, well he sure did have a lot of 3 and outs in crunch time...with TERRIBLE throws at the end of that game.

Not gonna disagree with that, but he wasn't the reason we lost that game...you know that. Besides our WRs for that game were Crabtree, K. Williams, and B. Swain...not what I'd call an elite group.


Coop

Typical McNubb showing his true colors of bitterness. The little engine that never could, and he was so overrated, it's laughable!

Glad to see him gone. He's right where he belongs now with the other morons at ESPNTWAT including Trent Dilfer, Adam Schefter, Stuart Scott, and Mark Schlereth.

Week one KEY games:

Dallas at NY Giants WNF
San Francisco at Green Bay
Pittsburgh at Denver SNF
 
...and the two MNF games should be worth watching as well
Cincinnati at Baltimore
San Diego at Oakland

Also I noticed the Monday Night Football Schedule seems much better for the most part than in years past or is it just me?


Coop

These are the Monday Night Football games that I'm looking forward to watching...

Week 2: Denver Broncos at Atlanta Falcons, Sept. 17

Week 4: Chicago Bears at Dallas Cowboys, Oct. 1

Week 12: Carolina Panthers at Philadelphia Eagles, Nov. 26

Week 13: New York Giants at Washington Redskins, Dec. 3

The MNF schedule does seem a little better than previous years but not by a lot.

These 3 intrigue me much more:
GB@Sea
Phi@NO
Atl@Det


Coop

Sunday Night Football has the best group of games IMO

 Week 1: Steelers @ Broncos      Sunday, Sept. 9th - 8:20 p.m.      NBC
 Week 2: Lions @ 49ers             Sunday, Sept. 16th - 8:20 p.m.     NBC
 Week 3: Patriots @ Ravens     Sunday, Sept. 23rd - 8:20 p.m.     NBC
 Week 4: NY Giants @ Eagles     Sunday, Sept. 30th - 8:20 p.m.     NBC
 Week 5: Chargers @ Saints     Sunday, Oct. 7th - 8:20 p.m.             NBC
 Week 6: Packers @ Texans     Sunday, Oct. 14th - 8:20 p.m.     NBC
 Week 7: Steelers @ Bengals     Sunday, Oct. 21st - 8:20 p.m.             NBC
 Week 8: Saints @ Broncos     Sunday, Oct. 28th - 8:20 p.m.     NBC
 Week 9: Cowboys @ Falcons     Sunday, Nov. 4th - 8:20 p.m.             NBC
 Week 10: Texans @ Bears     Sunday, Nov. 11th - 8:20 p.m.     NBC
 Week 11: Ravens @ Steelers     Sunday, Nov. 18th - 8:20 p.m.     NBC
 Week 12: Packers @ NY Giants     Sunday, Nov. 25th - 8:20 p.m.    NBC
 Week 13: Eagles @ Cowboys     Sunday, Dec. 2nd - 8:20 p.m.       NBC
 Week 14: Lions @ Packers     Sunday, Dec. 9th - 8:20 p.m.             NBC
 Week 15: 49ers @ Patriots     Sunday, Dec. 16th - 8:20 p.m.     NBC
 Week 16: Chargers @ Jets     Sunday, Dec. 23rd - 8:20 p.m.     NBC


Coop

I like these Sunday night match ups:

Week 4: NY Giants @ Eagles - Sunday, Sept. 30th - 8:20 p.m. NBC
 
 Week 9: Cowboys @ Falcons - Sunday, Nov. 4th - 8:20 p.m.NBC

 Week 12: Packers @ NY Giants - Sunday, Nov. 25th - 8:20 p.m. NBC

 Week 13: Eagles @ Cowboys - Sunday, Dec. 2nd - 8:20 p.m. NBC

...not to mention THEE best commentators in the business:  Michaels and Collinsworth kick ass!   :yes:
I'm not a Giants or Cowboys fan, but I am REALLY looking forward to that opening Wednesday Night game.
That 'boys-Giants game at the end of last season was embarrassing for the 'boys.  I smell a revenge win at home for Dallas on opening night.

btw, what are the odds Tebow's starting for the Jets in Week 16?  I'd say 50-50. 
Odds the Jets are in the playoffs?  40-60.  I see misery in NY this year.

2012 Playoffs:
AFC Div. winners:
Pats
Ravens
Texans
Chiefs
Wildcards:
Bills
Broncos

NFC Div. Winners:
Cowboys
Packers
Falcons
49ers
Wildcards:
Eagles
Saints

The Cowboys finally got a decent coach or at least a likeable coach. I want to see Jason Garrett do very well. I just wish they would move on from the Romo era and get a good quarterback. I've just never believed in Tony Romo's ability to lead the Cowboys to another Super Bowl victory.

I'm with Aikman when it comes to Romo.  Surround Romo with protection and a good defense, and they'll be contenders.

^Totally agree...they just need to get it done now that they know the plan.....Jerry "the snake" Jones holds that team back more than helps IMO


Coop

Jason Garrett sucks

Terrible O Coordinator

all those weapons and has the most vanilla,predictable, crap offense in the NFL

This is probably true. Maybe's it's just something personality wise that I don't like about him. Mainly on the field, talent-wise. He's probably a decent guy.


But Jason Garrett is a huge improvement over Wade Phillips, Dave Campo, Chan Gailey, and Bill Parcells. Complete failures.

Hey Drew, judging from your extreme dislike of Donovan McNabb, I can see why you're not crazy about Tony Romo.  (not that they are clones) but both can be, how do I put it, loosey goosey? 
You won't exactly sense the ever-present intensity you see in Peyton or Brady or Warner in a guy like Romo.  He flashes it, but then the next minute he's got his hat on backwards laughing.

btw, again to set the record straight, I was always a big McNabb fan...but even I at this point have to say Donovan's out of touch with reality.  He should NOT be a HOF quarterback.  If I was Philly's top brass, I'd give him a team career honor, but NFL HoF?  No.  Had he showed something, ANYTHING, in Washington or Minnesota, he'd have had a shot...but no.
...and for him to say his #'s backed up his case, again, no.  Different eras Donovan.  apples and oranges.

I think you said everything really well concerning both Tony and Donovan. And besides my dislike of Donovan, your exactly right about his numbers not being inline to be in the Hall of Fame. A team career honor from the Eagles would be deserving for him.

Now the Saints GM has been reportedly caught eavesdropping on the opposing locker room via electronic device. I suspect this is gonna lead to a longer suspension and more punishment for the Saints. This team is just become despicable.

^It's like they're trying to make fans forget that they ever won a Superbowl...not sure how I would enjoy the season if I were a Saints fan this year


Coop

I'd be ashamed to be a fan again. Maybe they'll start wearing the bags on their heads again.

Nice  :rofl:


Coop

The NFL should ban the Saints for one year from any play or any type of organization. Than, we'll see if Drew Brees signs a contract extension come this time next year or not.  :hihi:

I think the league has no choice but to take further action, this time what the GM was doing was a felony. This is serious shit.

It WAS.  The question is...can they prosecute based on the statute of limitations. 

But...none of that matters to the league (who has no statute of limitations).  They've GOT to come down hard on the whole organization.  I almost wonder if they need to take an NCAA stance and make them ineligible for postseason play for a year or two.

Let them play their regular season...but make it meaningless.  I don't think they can shutter the team, completely (I think that's in the league bylaws...they'd have to revoke the franchise, entirely)...but they certainly can take draft picks, fine them, AND take away their entitlement to play in the playoffs.

Exactly, if the league determines this is true, they will lower the boom on New Orleans. The penalty for this will make the punishment for the bounty system look like nothing. I think if this is true Loomis needs to get a Greg Williams type suspension, meaning until further notice and possibly banned forever. He obviously has no regard for league rules and regulations.

Wes Welker has yet to sign the franchise tender the New England Patriots slapped on the receiver March 6. Listening to his words Tuesday, Welker doesn't sound like a man about to put pen to paper:

"Through my body of work, through the past five years, I think what I've done -- I've earned a long-term deal," Welker told ESPN Boston. "It's what I am looking for and what I want. Hopefully that's the case and hopefully we come to something where we can make that happen."

Welker was a no-show last week for the start of New England's voluntary workout program. The team's minicamp from June 12-14 is mandatory, but Welker is threatening to steer clear.

"I'm not 100 percent sure on that. I don't know if I will or not. I'm thinking I'm probably not going to, but things could change," Welker said. "We'll just see how it all plays out."

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8288f787/article/welker-stands-pat-ive-earned-a-longterm-deal?module=HP11_headline_stack (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8288f787/article/welker-stands-pat-ive-earned-a-longterm-deal?module=HP11_headline_stack)

I tend to agree with him, i think he deserves that long term deal.

I thought the Saints coach Joe Vitt made himself look like a complete moron in his press conference Tuesday. His comments about the players never crossing the white line to hurt another player and that it was impossible that Lommis would ever wiretap other coaches and teams.

Are the Saints the only team that does this? Probably not. But making yourself look like a denying idiot doesn't gain you any credit.

It appears that the Pro Bowl is history, there will still be players selected as Pro Bowlers but the game won't be played. I have to say i'm thrilled about this. The NFL all star game is the biggest snooze fest of all the major sports, especially since players from the Super Bowl teams can't partake.

The Pro Bowl has never been entertaining or even worth watching for me. The fact that there's no competition at all makes it a complete joke and waste of time. And it shows how big headed the NFL is by awarding players a "Pro Bowl award" when there isn't even a game to attend.

Couldn't agree more with the joy of watching that flaming turd of a game gone!  Stick a fork in that shit fest.   :beer:
About still offering Pro Bowl awards/voting/etc., they've gotta do that contractually.  $$$ talks.   ;)

how 'bout my Vikes with a kick-ass 1st Round???  Starting L tackle and a starting safety.  I am pleasantly surprised with how solid we've been.

I was kinda surprised that the Vikings made the trade with Cleveland, and didn't pick up another running back. I know Minnesota already has Adrian Peterson at running back but as much as running backs are beat up game after game, I thought it might be wise to get another one.

I think the Vikes were one of the "winners" of the 1st RD...but WoW that draft was pretty quick compared to most..seems like everyone for the most part got who they needed or wanted...not many "losers" in that RD. Hope Everyone is HaPPy with your picks!

Call me crazy, but I like the 49er pick..Illinois had a shitty QB and A.J. Jenkins still put together a hell of a season making some really tough grabs...plus the guy has true SPEED and knows how to use it, but I like the fact that he has really good hands and "goes after" catches that some receivers would give up on. Not sure what he'll bring to the table in year one, but I think he'll fit in just fine.

I'm curious to see where all these low 1st RD projected WRs are going to land in the 2nd RD and Colby Fleener!


Coop    :peace:

In a phone interview this morning, A.J. Jenkins? agent said he heard a ?ton? of pre-draft buzz about his client and knew the 49ers ?fell in love? with the Illinois wide receiver.

Still, he remained cautiously optimistic. He even advised Jenkins to not obsess about watching the first round of the draft Thursday night from his family?s home in Jacksonville, Fla.

?You can?t always believe everything you hear, especially in this business,? Jonathan Perzley said. ?But we knew he wasn?t going out of the top 40. It wasn?t possible. Not with the teams that need good, solid receivers. And with the character of this guy, and his production, and all his measurables, you can?t let a guy like that slide.?

As it turns out, obviously, some of that pre-draft chatter was legitimate.

The 49ers clearly fell head over heels for Jenkins, who they selected 30th overall, and they apparently weren?t alone.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch, citing league sources, reported the Rams coveted Jenkins and had given him a similar grade to Oklahoma State wideout Justin Blackmon, who went fifth overall to Jacksonville. Sports Illustrated?s Peter King reported one ?club official? said his team had Jenkins rated ahead of Notre Dame wideout Michael Floyd, who was selected with the No. 13 pick by Arizona.

?He didn?t have a good quarterback to get him the ball, and he?s raw,? King?s source said. ?But he?s fast. We liked him a lot.??

The other interest surrounding Jenkins helps explain why the 49ers passed on a potential trade with the Vikings to move back five spots from No. 30 to No. 35. The Rams, after all, have pick No. 33, the first in today?s second round.

?I think if you follow this story a little longer and over the course of the next few days, you?re going to find that there were a lot more people that liked A.J. than just the San Francisco 49ers,? 49ers general manager Trent Baalke said Thursday night. ?He would have gone a lot sooner tomorrow than a lot of people may think. I?ll let you dig and find that information, but we?re very confident in the pick and very glad to have A.J. on board.?

It looks like Baalke was right.

Time will tell if he (and others) was right about Jenkins.

the only "loser" I could think of was possibly the Rams. 
They nearly pulled off the perfect plan to nab Blackmon...came up one pick shy.
I love the draft!

Ya I have to agree with that, but I think the Rams are more about building picks and taking value players because they have so many holes to fill... Jeff Fisher knows how to build a team...they are still three years away from being a playoff team.

49ers 2nd RD pick:    James, LaMichael   RB   5'8"   194   Oregon ...we just drafted the next Sproles IMO. We just turned our two-head monster into a three and added depth to our return game...I really like how this draft is going so far!


Coop

I kinda wish Dallas would have been able to select Ryan Tannehill. I think it would have been a good pick for Atlanta as well. He seems to get slammed pretty hard by all the draft gurus. Maybe their right, maybe their wrong. From what I've seen of him thru his interviews, I'd like to see him succeed and turn the Dolphins around.

Philadelphia has certainly made some picks to help their defense.

NFL Week 1: SF vs GB = Bloodbath! It's gonna be a hell of a good game to open the season with!

Go Niners!!!


Coop

One more quarterback I am rooting for is Kirk Cousins who was drafted by the Redskins. I would've much rather seen him go to Dallas or Atlanta as a backup and future starter but hopefully he'll catch on and be very productive.

At least he went out with a bang.

Too early? I laughed


Coop

Never too early!

New Orleans got off pretty easy with only a few players receiving suspensions for the bounties.

They really did, i was expecting much worse.

Anyone hear Chris Carter talking about how he had bounties on other players? Is this not exactly the thug mentality of people like him. And to say that the NFL needs to change it's ways because this is the mindset new players are acquainted with once they enter the league, is completely asinine of him. Yeah, this is the mindset because of thugs like Chris Carter who were putting bounties out on other players. This is exactly why he's been passed over and over for the Hall Of Fame. He's always been a true douche bag!  :rant:

Before he goes all "Jim Rome" on you, ya better just spell that Cris.   :hihi:

I don't know man, what did Cris Carter say that was so bad?  I just figured they always got players back, a-la pitchers beaning pitchers who beaned their guys earlier.

The Saints went over the line when they went out to hurt and maim the competition.  Carter hasn't (if I'm not mistaken) said he wanted guys injured or taken out of the game.
Please correct me if I'm wrong...I often am!   :hihi:

These were his comments.

"I'm guilty of it," Carter said, according to ProFootballTalk.com. "It's the first time I've ever admitted it. But I put a bounty on guys before. I put bounties on guys. And the guys tried to take me out, a guy tried to take a cheap shot on me, I put a bounty on him, right now."

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d828f6148/article/cris-carter-reveals-he-used-bounties-while-with-vikings-eagles

Now, he's putting all the blame on the NFL saying that they need to change their ways. Really? It's thugs like him continued to carry on this tradition which ended up leading to the New Orleans scandal.

I have a solution. You get caught, your banned for life from the NFL! The NFL could really do some good getting these type of thugs out of the game in my opinion.

Again, I don't hear him saying he wanted guys out of the game.  Did he want guys hit back for doing whatever they did to his teammates?  Yeah, it's a gray area that I'm sure the NFL doesn't want to deal with, but what Williams did in N'Orleans and what Payton knew about...that's really bad.  That's no gray area...that's "Johnny's coach from Karate Kid bad," ya know?  Putting money down to hit somebody is one thing, but to give extra if you've injured them/put them out of the game, that's a different beast in my opinion.

btw, I'm still waiting for Family Guy to deal with this issue...I can imagine Boba Fett and a few other true bounty hunters sitting around a table discussing this matter on ESPN or something...maybe a drunk Peter comes stumbling in, starts poking Boba in the chest...Peter still smiling slurring his words asks Boba over and over why he's alive, "Didn't you get eaten by that huge vagina in the sand?"  :hihi:

With most of his bounties most likely intended for defensive players, I don't think the bounty would be for anything less than to induce harm on a player and put him out of the game indefinitely. Let's just say he wanted to hurt another player. A player hurt is a player that is most likely out of the game. Let's just say he wanted their bell rung. When someone's head gets rung, that's brain trauma or very close to it.

The thing that rings hollow to me about the NFL coming down on these bounties is that I don't believe there's all that much difference between:

1 --- legally hitting a player as hard as you can without caring whether you injure that player

and

2 --- legally hitting a player with the intent to injure that player.


Now if a hit is illegal, that's different and there's already rules for penalties, fines, suspensions, etc. for illegal hits.  So if these bounties just encouraged harder hitting rather than illegal hitting, wouldn't the problem be with the game itself?  Or is it a problem at all?

Steele, good points...STOP MAKING THEM!  If enough people connect the dots, and the lawyers get a hold of this, we'll either be watching flag football on Sundays, or doing more shopping with our wives!  If you are responsible for making me go clothes-shopping at the mall with my wife, I may have to put a bounty out on you!   :hihi:

Hey, let me off the hook, I only express these opinions in forums that have a grand total of about 6 football fans.   :peace:

I agree completely with both of you, GeorgeSteele and Axl4Prez2004. Athletes have a choice. They don't have to play their chosen sport and get a real job like the rest of the majority. If you don't like the system and the rules, than don't enter it.

Don't become like those pesky, lame-ass occupiers.  :hihi:

Johnny Knox didn't participate in OTAs with the Chicago Bears on Wednesday, and it doesn't appear he'll be back on the field any time soon as he continues to recover from a serious spine injury.

Knox said Wednesday he lost 30 pounds following back surgery. He said he's gained back 10 pounds since, but isn't rushing his return. Knox acknowledged his playing status for the 2012 is in doubt.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8294ab54/article/chicago-bears-johnny-knoxs-season-in-doubt?module=HP11_headline_stack (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8294ab54/article/chicago-bears-johnny-knoxs-season-in-doubt?module=HP11_headline_stack)

The Packers plan to retire Brett Favre's No. 4 jersey "in a year or two," when it's meaningful to the retired quarterback.

It's easy to see why the Packers aren't rushing to retire the jersey. They will want to be 100 percent confident that Favre isn't going to attempt another comeback. Perhaps more importantly, it provides more time to soothe the hard feelings that developed between Favre and GM Ted Thompson. As a three-time MVP, holder of many NFL records, and future Hall of Famer, Favre is certainly deserving of the honor.

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=NFL&id=1744&line=233518&spln=1 (http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=NFL&id=1744&line=233518&spln=1)

Wow this Alex Smith Cam Newton thing is getting really retarded!


Coop

The Allen Wranglers of the Indoor Football League released Terrell Owens on Tuesday, according to ESPNDallas.com. Owens was productive for the Wranglers, but he didn't fulfill the obligations of his contract.

Wranglers owner Jon Frankel said Owens refused to play in two upcoming road games that are important to the team's playoff run and also cited the receiver's no-show for a scheduled appearance at a children's hospital.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8296c8e3/article/terrell-owens-cut-by-indoor-football-league-team?module=HP11_content_stream (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d8296c8e3/article/terrell-owens-cut-by-indoor-football-league-team?module=HP11_content_stream)

I really hope this means that T.O. will never play again and we can move on from this drama queen loser.  :yes:

T.O. just does not have it anymore.  Teams don't mind drama queens if they still have the talent to get the job done.  Sadly, at his age AND coming off an ACL, TO is just the first 2 letters of his name now, TOAST.  (okay, that was really lame, sorry!)  ...but it's true.  I'll fantasize about Oprah Winfrey giving me a lap dance for 5 minutes if TO ever plays on another NFL team.

I don't dislike the guy...I feel sorry for him.  I really think he's got some mental issues...and it's tough for me to dislike folks with serious mental issues.

I like the way you think sir


Coop

Tom Brady has apparently worked pretty hard at improving his acting skills.  Funny stuff.

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/2fbed587d7/tom-brady-s-wicked-accent?playlist=featured_videos

Though I hope he's worked hard at improving his Super Bowl winning skills as well.  The last couple of trips haven't gone so well.

The last season he played, he was still NFL-good.  Don't know what he has left anymore, but this thing with the IFL team had nothing to do with TO's behavior or playing ability, it was all about money. 

They offered him a contract that was astronomical by IFL standards, thinking he'd fill up the seats, which of course, they didn't because it's the IFL.  Seeing that he was costing them way more than they can afford, they dumped him and then slandered him in the process.  And by the way, his contract specifically said that he did not have to play road games.



If she's offering, I'd take that lap dance in a heartbeat.  C'mon, it's Oprah.  I'd be telling that story at cocktail parties for the rest of my life.

You and Coop can feel sorry for T.O. but I don't. Mental issues? How many teams did he implode? Always a distraction and always selfish prick.

Look i'm a 49ers fan so I'm not the biggest T.O. fan in the world..even tho he had ALL his greatest moments with them. I was just liking Axl4Prez's way of thinking in general...besides who cares about T.O. anyways. He hasn't been much of anything for about 10 years now


Coop

The way you worded your post, when you said you liked the way Axl4Prez was thinking, I concluded you were in agreement with what he said about feeling sorry for T.O.

Speaking of the 49er's, what did you think about Harbaugh saying that they didn't pursue Peyton Manning and that Alex Smith was always their quarterback, in so many words?

Harbaugh is a tricky guy to say the least. I think he's trying to keep his team hungry and focused for the most part and not let media stupidity get in the way. His problem was with the way the media portrayed the whole thing I think. I really don't think that the Niners went out of their way to pursue Manning, but were in the hunt because it would have been silly not to be. If even we had signed Manning I think maybe we would have signed Smith also just because if Manning went down he would have been a legit back-up. Either way the 49ers are going to be tough to beat this year if we stay healthy.


Coop

I could be completely wrong but I think they were very interested in getting Peyton and if they could have, they would have signed him as their starting quarterback as fast as they could.

I think we wanted him, but it would have gone against the grain in our way of thinking too much I think...let us not forget the guy is coming off a MAJOR injury and hasn't proven he's the old Manning just yet...to be honest I'd rather take Drew Brees if he becomes a FA, but I doubt he will


Coop

Looks like the NFL is looking at using replacement refs. This has disaster written all over it.

Andrew Luck not worried about unsettled contract

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Andrew Luck is focused on his new job and will let others contend with the business of football.

Two days after picking up his architectural design degree from Stanford, the No. 1 overall draft pick returned to Indianapolis to work on football and make his first big steps into the community at a Play 60 camp downtown.

The only impediment standing between Luck and reporting to training camp is signing a contract. He's not concerned about it.

"To me, I worry about getting better at football," Luck said after the event. "My agent, I'll let him take care of that."

Luck is scrambling to catch up.

He's trying to get familiar with the city, get his timing down with teammates and still cramming to learn the full playbook, something he admits is an ongoing process.

"Hardly. I'm trying every day," Luck said when asked whether he knew the playbook yet.

The Stanford graduate is hardly alone.

Indy's top three draft picks - Luck, second-rounder Coby Fleener and third-rounder Dwayne Allen - are all unsigned. The Colts' other seven draft picks are under contract.

Team owner Jim Irsay did not expect the negotiations to take this long, thanks in part due to the new rookie wage scale which was supposed to make it easier to complete deals.

Irsay told reporters in late April he expected negotiations to proceed quickly and that Luck's deal would be almost identical to the four-year, $22 million contract last year's top pick, Cam Newton, signed. Newton became the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.

A little more than two weeks ago, Irsay also wrote on Twitter that the two sides were getting closer to a contract. Just not there yet.

Luck's agent, Will Wilson, has remained relatively quiet about negotiations and told The Associated Press in an e-mail Tuesday he had "nothing to add."

But getting a deal done before training camp is essential to Luck's development, especially after the predicament the Colts faced this spring.

After attending a three-day mini-camp in early May, Luck returned to Stanford to continue his classwork until June 7. NFL rules require rookies to complete their classwork before attending anything other than the rookie mini-camp, so Luck didn't get to work out with the Colts veterans until last week.

League rules also require rookies to be under contract before they report to training camp.

The Colts arrive at Anderson University about 30 miles northeast of Indy on July 28. Practice begins the next day, and if Luck doesn't have a deal in place, he can't practice. But Luck said he's not worried about missing the start of training camp.

So Luck and about two dozen other rookies are in town this week and next to work out at the team complex, and to get accustomed to some community relations. An estimated 90 children attended Tuesday's camp just south of Lucas Oil Stadium.

"The quarterback drill with Andrew Luck had to be the best," Allen said with a smile. "But then I'm biased because I participated in it."

But for the rebuilding Colts and the man who will replace Peyton Manning, Tuesday is only a start.

"I think it's really nice to be a part of the first team foray into the community and help kids have some fun for a couple of hours," Luck said. "Coach (Chuck) Pagano really preaches getting into the community and this is a good way to get started."

http://www.thecouriertimes.com/main.asp?SectionID=4&SubSectionID=369&ArticleID=274725 (http://www.thecouriertimes.com/main.asp?SectionID=4&SubSectionID=369&ArticleID=274725)

Luck will be a stud...in time.

The Jets implosion, coming to you shortly folks!

Da Billz will eclipse the Jets in the AFC East and make the playoffs!

According to NFL Network's Albert Breer, Ben Roethlisberger showed up to the Steelers offseason program "far earlier than accustomed" this year.
Roethlisberger had the twin hurdles of rehabbing his late-season high ankle sprain and learning new OC Todd Haley's offense, so it's hardly a surprise that he would arrive earlier this year. Breer does hear that Roethlisberger was "terrific" during Haley's offensive install this spring. Added safety Ryan Clark on Twitter, "You were told correctly! Never saw 7 on his stuff like this so early! Could be scary good!"

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=NFL&id=1181&line=235374&spln=1 (http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playerbreakingnews.asp?sport=NFL&id=1181&line=235374&spln=1)

So what does everyone think of the "Fan-Interaction" rules that are being talked about?


Coop

And maybe finally the world will realize that Rex Ryan is a flat out horrible coach.

Drew Brees got his 5-year/$100 million contract.

The Wes Welker saga rages on while Dez Bryant faces a year in jail for beating his mother.

Yeah, could be the last year in New England for Wes.  I would've locked the guy up for 3 years, but this is what the Patriots do.  They play hardball, even with their superstars.  Amazingly it hasn't burned them to this point, so I guess they know what they're doing.  And before we all get to feeling bad for the poor unfortunate Mr. Welker.  He will be making a cool 9 million next season, so I think he'll be alright.

Hey all you NFL fans its time to get excited for training camp! The point of this post is for anyone who wants to post who your team is and let everyone know what camp battles you are most excited about. I guess i'll get the ball rolling.

SF 49ers: the backup QB battle will be interesting between Kaepernick and Josh Johnson, but my money is on Kaepernick to win the No. 2 spot. I'm also really curious to see what running backs we end up keeping and how they look in preseason. I really think the No. 2 CB spot is totally up for grabs..we have alot of young unproven talent there! ...well thats just to name a few things

It's dead in here guys! ...we need some convo in here...honestly this is my fav spot to talk about the NFL..most boards and forums are filled with morons!


Coop

Not sure if I've posted this factoid here before, but the last 5 NFC teams to make the Super Bowl have played the AFC East during the season.  This year, the NFC West is paired with the AFC East.  So that could be a good omen for the Niners.  Or it could be an absolute coincidence and be totally meaningless.  :smoking:

Thanks Faldor.....I'll keep my eyes crossed for good luck! But I actually did not know that fact....all I know is its going to be an interesting year for football  :yes:


Coop

Kinda' worried about my Steelers with the looming absence of Mike Wallace this season :(

The oldest son of Andy Reid has been found dead in his room at the team's training facility.

TO will have a tryout with the Seahawks.

So sad.  Kids out there...adults out there...don't try drugs.  Find a positive outlet.  If you don't find a positive outlet, shit like this happens. 
It's just fucking sad.   :(

The Patriots are giving Plaxico Burress a workout today.

They already have more than enough WR's in camp.  Deion Branch and Donte Stallworth appear to be fighting for a spot on the roster behind Lloyd, Welker, Gafney, Edelman, and Slater.  Edelman and Slater are helped by their versatility returning kicks and the ability to line up in the secondary in a pinch.  Unless injuries occur, I don't see where Burress would fit in.

Well as bad as Chad Johnson was for the Patriots last year, at least he was able to avoid getting into any legal trouble.  Not so much with the Dolphins though.  Should make for great entertainment for "Hard Knocks" and "Basketball Wives" though.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000049021/article/evelyn-lozada-to-press-charges-on-chad-johnson?module=HP11_headline_stack

Evelyn Lozada to press charges on Chad Johnson

By Gregg Rosenthal

Miami Dolphins receiver Chad Johnson is out of jail following his Saturday arrest on domestic violence charges.

The police report from the incident between Johnson and his wife Evelyn Lozada also was released Sunday morning. Like many police reports, it tells a few different stories.

Johnson and Lozada agree that the incident happened inside Johnson's "black smart" car in the driveway in front of their house. The disagreement started when Lozada "located a Walgreen's receipt in the vehicle's trunk for a box of condoms."

That's where the two accounts start to differ. Lozada claims that Johnson became upset, grabbed her, and head-butted here. She says Johnson yelled:

"I don't give a (expletive)! I don't give a (expletive) about my career!"

Lozada then walked to a neighbor's house and waited for them to come home before calling the police.

Johnson's account is rather different. He claimed that Lozada head-butted him, which caused the three-inch laceration that was visible on her forehead. He also said that she yelled "(Expective) it!"

Beyond the "he said, she said" version of events, the most notable part of the report is that Lozada told the police she wanted to press charges. She signed an affidavit saying so.

The Dolphins are practicing Sunday, but it's unclear if Johnson will be present. Johnson was released from jail around the time practice started.

Maybe Chad should change his name back to Ochocinco.  Or maybe he should get going on that porn career he alluded to in case he didn't make the Dolphins.

Jay Glazer ‏@JayGlazer

The Miami Dolphins have just released Chad Johnson, scouts cleaned out his locker

Right on. That and the patriots are constantly bringing in players, just like other teams, to update reserve emergency lists. I believe this was just a work out to see what kind of shape he is in in case of injury.

On another note, any Chiefs fans? I know its just preseason and I try not too look to much into these things but they came out crisp and looking like they were ready to go on Saturday. I liked the Chiefs chances to win that division last year but they suffered all kinds of injuries. If they stay healthy and players can rebound from injury, I'm anxious to see if they can build on the 2010's 10-6 record and division win.

Stat that means nothing but is both funny and interesting to me: Every NFC superbowl team since 2006 played the AFC East in the regular season. Will it be the 49ers year? Or perhaps the other 3 teams could surprise ?  ;D

It appears likely that the season could start with replacement refs. Let the atrocious officiating begin!

...take Team Obliterator with him and the two drama queens disappear forever! :yes:

On another note, the hacks on ESPN NFL Countdown, NFL Live, and ESPN in general, have become intolerable to watch. Cris Carter is a complete joke and it's no wonder why this jerk hasn't been voted into the HOF. Adam Schefter and Mark Schlereth are complete morons. I can't stand Jalen Rose and Chris Broussard! All of these people need to be fired!

Could not agree more. I hate Jalen Rose and most of the others. Stopped watching most of espn NFL coverage a couple years ago. I get most of my news and analysis online now through various websites.

Though I still like some espn programming and personalities. I enjoy PTI and Mike and Mike. I also still enjoy Scotty Van Pelt and Ryen Russillo. I tend to agree with Russillo a lot and think he provides good analysis, most of the time.

I actually like Jalen but I think ESPN programming overall has gone way overboard with the former players. I get tired of the "I've been in those locker rooms" kind of commentary. They try to sell that these viewpoints are important because it's coming from a former player when in reality they're not all that interesting most of the time.

I agree on Pelt and Russillo, they're by far the best thing on ESPN radio. Mike and Mike are a little on the cheesy side and Colin Cowherd pulls too much shock jock shit.

Manning isn't looking too sharp with the Broncos.

I watched the Cardinals/Titans game on espn last night. That Cardinals offensive line looks horrible. Tough to evaluate a quarterback when they get pressured as much they did last night. That being said, I think Kolb is their stater. His ceiling is better than Skelton's. But whoever starts for them is going to get killed. Which means the other one will probably get his opportunity at some point. Thats tough for cardinal fans because with a decent offensive line, average qb play and that receiving corp I think they would be competitive in that division.

I liked Locker in college and thought he could develop into an above average NFL qb. I'm anxious to see him in the regular season. Chris Johnson looks like he did last year. Not very good. I think he misses Kevin Mawae and Alge Crumpler to block for him like he had in his 2000 yard season.

Just a couple thoughts i wanted to share....

Jacksonville, FL, United States (4E Sports) ? The Jacksonville Jaguars have no plan trading running back Maurice Jones-Drew, even if he doesn?t show up for the regular season.

?Maurice is a Jaguar,? general manager Gene Smith answered when asked if they are planning to trade Jones-Drew, who is holding out for the 35th day.

Jaguars owner Shad Khan was also asked about trading the star running back, to which he replied ?you ought to ask Gene on that. Certainly, I wouldn?t be engaged anyway.?

Khan earlier said that Jones-Drew?s holdout wasn?t of great concern to him and called out the running back, saying the ?train is leaving the station. Run, get on it?.

http://gantdaily.com/2012/08/30/jaguars-not-trading-running-back-jones-drew/ (http://gantdaily.com/2012/08/30/jaguars-not-trading-running-back-jones-drew/)

Patriots cut branch. I was surprised by this. Only 4 receivers on the 53 man roster and one of them, Mathew Slater is a sub par receiver who has great special teams value. I guess with how often they can move hernandez to wr, they don't see the need. Just thought branch was a given once Gafney and Stallworth were cut.

Surprising the pats start mini camps with Stallworth, Gafney, Branch, Chad Johnson, and Anthony Gonzalez and none make the final roster. Thought at least one would.

Also kept four tight ends. Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Daniel Fells, Visanthe Shiancoe.

I am anxiously awaiting to see a 2wr, 3te formation that consists of Shiancoe or Fells and Gronkowski lining up as traditional tight ends, Lloyd and Hernandez out wide and Welker in the slot(or Welker out wide/hernandez in slot). I think that could present a lot of problems for defenses. Throw it on one down, go no huddle, Hernandez lines up as running back/out wide/slot/te and run it/play action it/screen it/throw short/throw deep. The options are endless. This season is going to be fun.

I was surprised too, but in reality, Branch would've been the 6th option on offense at best.  The extra TE(s) allow for less WR's.  They got little to no production from their 3rd WR last year and still had one of the top offenses in the league, so I think they'll be fine.  With that being said though, I was shocked he didn't make the cut.  Maybe they figure they'll be able to get him back after week 1 (non-guaranteed contract) since his value outside of New England is very low.

McDaniels just snagged Greg Salas from St. Louis.  There's another wide receiver.

NFL season is about to start. So lets get some predictions going. I suck at predictions but I'm still going to give them. I always go out on a limb with a few. I'm going to do divisional winners, wild card teams, conference champions and Super Bowl Champion. Patriot bias is evident. : ok:

Divisional Winners and Wild Cards

AFC East: Patriots.
AFC South: Texans.
AFC North: Ravens.
AFC West: Chiefs.

AFC Wild Cards: Titans, Bengals.

NFC East: Eagles or Giants (I know I'm supposed to pick one but I can't decide, Giants bias clouding judgement, sue me)
NFC North: Packers
NFC South: Falcons
NFC West: 49ers.

Wild Cards: Lions, Bears.

Conference Games and Champions

AFC: Patriots vs. Chiefs.
NFC: Lions vs. Falcons.

Superbowl Game and Champion.

Patriots vs. Falcons.

Patriots obviously win.  :hihi:

Predictions sure to go wrong:

AFC
Patriots
Texans
Ravens
Chiefs
Steelers (wildcard)
Bills (wildcard)


NFC
Packers
Falcons
Giants
49ers
Eagles (wildcard)
Bears (wildcard)


AFC Championship: Ravens def. Patriots
NFC Championship: Bears def. Eagles

SUPERBOWL: Ravens def. Bears

Your predictions were plausible until....


And..



No. No. No.  :hihi:

I posted earlier in this thread the Bills will make the playoffs.  I really believe that.

Pats
Texans
Ravens
Raiders

Bills
Bengals

Cowboys
Packers
Falcons
49ers

Bears
Panthers

Packers-Pats Super Bowl

Romo looked pretty good last night.

He did. I have always thought he was an above average qb and not a good one because he just cannot stay consistent. That third down they convert at the end was a great play. Next week or the week after, he'll throw a pick in the same situation and the other team than goes on to win. That has been the problem his entire career.

The $96 Million Dollar Neck wins in week 1.

Was really weird to see Peyton Manning in a Broncos uniform, but man was he fun to watch. He's still got it.

AFC
Patriots
Steelers
Texans
Broncos

Jets (wildcard)
Ravens (wildcard)

NFC
Giants
Packers
Falcons
49ers

Cowboys (wildcard)
Lions (wildcard)

AFC Championship: Steelers def. Patriots
NFC Campionship: Giants def. 49ers

Superbowl: Steelers def. Giants


That was an amazing game - wouldn't mind seeing a rematch in the playoffs :smoking:

Manning looked good. No doubt.

Steelers didn't have Clark, Harrison, mendenhall. Their o-line is definitely still a problem, doesn't help they lost their number 1 draft pick. They got no pressure on manning, so give credit to Denver's oline, manning and steelers for that. I just think this game is different in Pittsburgh with Clark on the field. Polamalu plays last nights game a lot differently if Ryan Clark is on the field playing the other safety position. 

Not quite sold on Denver, but i'm anxious to see them in the next few weeks.

What can we take away with week 1 in the books?  Probably not a whole lot, teams don't really start to take shape until around Thanksgiving or so.  Just look at the Giants last year and in 2007.  But, we can only go off of what we've seen so far, which admittedly isn't much.

I know it's early, but from what I saw over the weekend, we could have the same 4 division winners in the AFC.  Patriots and Texans almost assuredly.  Maybe the Steelers can give the Ravens a run, but Baltimore looked awfully good on Sunday night.  Flacco continued his strong play from the end of last season.  If he can play at that high level they could take that next step to the Super Bowl.  I thought their defense would take a step back with the loss of Suggs, and it still may, but they look alright for now.  A lot of people are down on the Steelers this season, saying the defense is getting old, the O-line is a mess, and they can't run the ball like they used to.  All are valid concerns.  But I'll believe it when I see it.  They really could go either way.  They could go 6-10 or 12-4, but they'll probably be somewhere in the middle.  I'll stick them right at 9-7 and in the hunt for a wild card.

I too am not sold on Denver just yet.  That division is still mediocre at best and I'm not so sure the Broncos are that much better than the Chargers or the Raiders, if at all.  But you'd have to give them the early edge based on what they did last year with Tebow and the possibilities with Manning.  I expected more from the Chiefs in week 1, and this season.  We'll see if they can turn it around.

The AFC South is probably the worst division in football.  It wouldn't surprise me if the Jags, Colts, and Titans all win less than 6 games.  Texans will roll in that division, no contest.

Same with the Patriots in the AFC East.  The Bills were everybody's favorite sleeper team going into the season.  Then they get crushed by the Jets and lose their best offensive player for at least a month in the process.  Not a good start.  I'm sure they'll have better days, but I'm not so sure they're ready to contend for a playoff spot.  And despite the impressive win by the Jets, I'm not buying into them either.  They may be successful early in the season, but things will eventually go wrong and when that starts, they won't be able to recover.  They're playing with a chip on their shoulders right now because everybody was talking about how much of a disaster they'd be this year.  You could almost predict they'd come out and play well against the Bills to prove everyone wrong.  Though I didn't think they'd play THAT well.  Again though, I don't think it'll last.

In the NFC, the Saints looked pretty bad and with all the nonsense they had to deal with in the off-season, it wouldn't surprise me one bit if they took a step back this season.  Panthers were a sexy sleeper pick as well and they didn't look too hot.  Bucs are just bad.  That leaves the Falcons as the favorite in the South, ready to take that next step.  Matt Ryan was also impressive and has some serious weapons at his disposal.

The 49ers are clearly the best team in the West, if not all the NFC, or better yet the NFL.  Cardinals are terrible.  Rams aren't much better, though they played tough.  And the Seahawks seem average at best.

The North is interesting.  I think the Lions could take a step back, and they looked ready to do that on Sunday.  Not impressive, although they did come out with the win which is all that matters in the end.  Vikings aren't very good, though Ponder played decently.  That leaves the Bears and Packers.  A lot of people like the Bears this year, and for good reason.  I think they have a better overall team.  I just think the Packers are better by a wide margin at the most important position on the field, QB.  So I think they still win the division.  Now it may be a different story as far as winning games in January.  The Bears may be better suited for that.

The East is tough to predict.  The Giants are another team that could miss the playoffs completely or win it all, like every year.  Same could be said for the Cowboys and Eagles too.  Philly didn't look too good against Cleveland, but again they did win.  Cowboys looked great against the Giants, and if their defense keeps showing improvement, they might be the favorite to win the division.  Everyone is excited about RG3 and the Redskins.  I'm not sold just yet.  I think it's asking a lot for a rookie QB to come in and take the team to the playoffs when they don't really have a dynamic defense, running game, OR WR's.  I think they'll be improved, but they're still a few pieces short.  Just to be a little different, I'll say the Giants suffer a Super Bowl hangover and the Cowboys win the division.

AFC East - Pats
AFC North - Ravens
AFC South - Texans
AFC West - Broncos
Wild Cards - Chargers, Steelers

NFC East - Cowboys
AFC North - Packers
AFC South - Falcons
AFC West - 49ers
Wild Cards - Bears, Eagles

And even though I'm a Patriot fan, and thought they looked great on Sunday.  And even though I thought the Ravens looked impressive as hell Sunday night.  I thought the Texans were the best team in the AFC last season WHEN healthy.  I'll take a chance they'll stay relatively healthy this year and make it to the Super Bowl to take on the 49ers.  Teams are quite similar.  Part of me wants to pick the Texans because I think Schaub is better than Smith, but I don't know if he's THAT much better.  I'll go with the 9ers.  Can't wait to revisit these picks and laugh come February, if not sooner.

Should be interesting how the Broncos recover against the Texans this weekend.

recover or regress? we shall see...good test for both teams at this point


Coop

DALLAS ? When discussing the NFL?s latest show of shamelessness and the possible ramifications, I think two things are in order.

First, we need to readily acknowledge that greed is celebrated in this country. The media might occasionally target those who fail to recognize the fallout from the more astonishing demonstrations of rapaciousness. But it?s not like we ever got around to sending a single bank executive to jail for destroying the world economy in 2008, now did we?

(OK, back to sports).

Last year?s NBA lockout and the NHL?s current one were both predicated on the greed of ownership. Major League Baseball?s first 10-team playoff (a 150 percent increase in less than 20 years) gets under way in two weeks. What?s that all about?

And, well, even if you aren?t following the Ed O?Bannon class action lawsuit against the NCAA, if you?re a University of Texas graduate, you can?t miss how the ripple effects generated by one school?s constant grab for more money can lay waste to a century of tradition.

There. We all like money. Now let?s get to the NFL?s willingness to dilute its own product through the use of replacement officials.

First, we can?t be totally surprised by this. After all, this IS the league that used replacement players in 1987. The games were celebrated in Dallas (?White?s a Weenie, We Want Sweeney?) but mostly ridiculed and unattended in more union-friendly parts of the country.

If the owners that we like to think of as ?old school? and not quite so money hungry were willing to do that to the product 25 years ago, we can?t be shocked that this group has chosen to send lower-level college officials with no experience at managing a violent, high-speed game onto the field and simply hoped for the best.

In Week 1, the owners? side, in fact, won. Players and fans were happy to be back, there were no massive officiating blunders, and it looked for certain as if the locked-out officials had overplayed their hand (they probably still have, as we shall see in a moment).

In Week 2, the game took a hit. So did several quarterbacks to the head. So did a number of wide receivers beyond the 5-yard line of contact.

An inherently violent game bordered on lawlessness in Philadelphia and in San Francisco. The regular officials have a tough time separating players and maintaining order, especially after fumbles when the players pile on indiscriminately.

These officials didn?t even try.

On top of that, the league blindly sent an unabashed Saints fan to officiate the team?s game with Carolina. I?d like to think this was a peace offering from commissioner Roger Goodell following his punitive handling of the league?s bounty investigation.

Sadly, it was just reckless stupidity.

It?s going to get worse by the week. Games grow in significance as losses mount. Players see postseason hopes slipping away. Coaches see jobs on the line. Respect for these officials ? given grudgingly at league direction to start with ? will vanish entirely.

So why have there been no talks between the NFL and its officials this week, especially if this is in many ways about converting a pension to a 401k, something many corporations did years ago?

Because ESPN?s Steve Young said it best after Monday?s debacle in Atlanta.

?There?s nothing they can do to hurt demand for the game. So the bottom line is they don?t care,? Young said, adding that the league attitude is: ?Go ahead, gripe all you want. Let them eat cake.?

http://www.postbulletin.com/news/stories/display.php?id=1508906 (http://www.postbulletin.com/news/stories/display.php?id=1508906)

Can someone give me one good reason to watch one more Raider game this year?? anyone ?  I think I have had it..I finally snapped on Sunday.

...hmmm...because in Weeks 8 and 15 you guys can actually win a couple of games?  (both against the Chiefs)
week 7 Jags
week 9 Bucs
week 13 Brownies.

Honestly, you guys may be in #1 overall pick territory...automatic top 6 imo.  I'm seeing 4-12...just good enough to keep ya from #1 overall.

yea but didn't they give up their 1st rd pick for the 2013 draft? cant remember the details of that very very bad deal


Coop

its a 2nd round pick for this year.

I know it's still very early, but I called the Arizona Cardinals horrible a few weeks back.  I'd like to retract that statement.  They knocked off the Pats last week in front of my own unfortunate eyes and this week they're taking it to the Eagles.  By days end they could be all alone atop the AFC West.  They do have a very good defense in fact.  I didn't give them enough credit there.  Their offense leaves a lot to be desired still, but they are not horrible by any means.  My bad.  Just the first of many incorrect statements on my part for this season.

Hopefully I don't have to come back and retract my retraction anytime soon.  :hihi:

Potentially devastating news for the Jets. Darelle Revis went down with knee injury and i'm hearing early reports its likely a torn ACL which will end his season. He's having a MRI tomorrow to find out for sure.

What do you guys think about the Buccaneers continuing to go for the ball while their opponent takes a knee?

I think there is an offensive line there that gets paid an obscene amount of money to make sure their QB doesn't get hit....so lets do that.

I can't believe Bill Bellichick's actions after the game. Going after the ref like that. What a douchebag.

ehhh thats just typical twitter/social media over reaction.  I watched it live I didn't think it was that bad.  He was trying to get the refs attention, and grabbed at his arm, probably shouldn't have done it, but wasn't really a big deal.  People are acting like he walked up to the ref and punched him in the face.

also they aren't real refs, so it should be allowed right?   :hihi:

Belichick shouldn't have touched him. Will be fined. But it wasn't shoving the ref, it wasn't knocking him down, it wasn't a thrown punch or anything like that. Its a frustrated coach who from his angle on that side of the field thought the kick was missed and wanted them to review it. The officiating was absolutely horrible the entire night. He grabbed the official running off the field in an attempt to get his attention, nothing more. Will be fined simply because he made contact but it was nothing nefarious. Anything said otherwise is blatant over reaction.

Shame this night will probably over shadow the horrible officiating in the steelers/raiders game. So many helmet to helmet and low to qb hits not called. The hit on heyward-bey was horrible and he was knocked out and on the field for 12 mins before being carted off. NFL is supposed to be concerned with player safety. If they really are, they need to get a deal done already to get the regular refs back on the field.

Regarding the pats loss, when the pats punted with around 6 minutes left, i figured a 31-30 loss. The patriots have been too inconsistent in closing out games on offense the last few years. Not too pissed because I honestly feel the patriots deserved to lose. They had a nine point lead with the ball and couldn't close it out and than a 2 point lead with the ball and couldn't close it out. This is on the execution of Tom Brady and that entire offense. It has just been too inconsistent. Whether its coaching, play calling or execution they need to fix this. Cost a superbowl last year, a loss against giants in regular season last year, almost a loss against ravens in afc championship, this loss. Maybe I'm putting too much into it but I feel its an ongoing problem. And not just these last 2 years either.

Edit: Thought I would add in this tweet from Brandon Spikes becuz I thought it was hilarious, really stupid of him, but still pretty funny...

"Can someone please tell these fucking zebras foot locker called and they?re needed Back at work !!!! #BreakingPoint"

He wasn't really "going after" the ref.  He wanted to ask him if the FG was reviewable.  Let's face it, that was a very questionable FG.  The ref was running off the field, so Bill did what he had to do to get his attention.  Didn't work though.

The refs were AWFUL last night for both teams.  Non calls, calls that shouldn't have been made, failure to know the rules.  It was just a horrendous display of officiating.  Bring back the real refs.  Please!

How can we end this thing? I thought about passing a hat around the country, but that seems inefficient. I wondered if perhaps the NFL can find the money somewhere, anywhere, to pay for proper officiating. I know times are tight, but gee, it sure seems like the NFL is kind of popular.

What would it take to end the officials' lockout? My colleague Peter King wrote today that the gap between what officials want and what the NFL is offering is around $3.3 million per season.

Gosh. That is a big number, isn't it? I don't know how the NFL is supposed to come up with $3.3 million every year ... hey, wait, I just stumbled upon this little news item: The NFL recently signed nine-year agreements with Fox, NBC and CBS that are worth $3 billion a year.

I'm no accountant, but I do have a calculator on my computer. It looks to me like the NFL could settle this dispute for the cost of 0.0011 percent of its annual TV take. That is an outrageously high number, of course. I don't think the NFL should completely cave -- this is, after all, a negotiation.

The NFL can start by generously offering 0.0004 percent of its annual TV revenue, then bump it up to 0.0006 percent of its annual TV revenue, and can probably get an agreement for close to 0.00085 percent of its annual TV revenue.

I'm guessing there, but I mean, the officials want to work. I don't think they will be stubborn and insist on that entire, enormous 0.0011 percent of the NFL's annual TV revenue. I think they could walk away from this with that 0.00085 percent of the NFL's annual TV revenue and feel pretty good about themselves.

And then, if the NFL can somehow find a way to sell a few jerseys and tickets and beers and hot dogs and parking spots ... well, the officials wouldn't get a dime of that. Then maybe the NFL could finally turn a profit. What a relief that would be.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/michael_rosenberg/09/24/refs/index.html (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/michael_rosenberg/09/24/refs/index.html)

I agree... the refs couldn't get off of the field fast enough. While it wasn't a reviewable play (according the the former NFL Director of Officiating) by rule all scoring plays are typically reviewable. Bill was looking to see why it wasn't being reviewed and the ref never acknowledged him, so he grabbed his arm to get his attention and an answer, when that didn't work he stopped.

Granted I am a NE fan, but overall that was the worst officiated game I have ever seen. The number of defensive holding calls was insane. In fact it was evident that the refs didn't understand the difference between defensive holding, pass interference, and illegal contact. In the forth quarter they call defensive holding against the Ravens DB negating an interception... while the reversal of the int was correct, the call was wrong. The DB had the Pats WR by the jersey, redirecting his route with the ball in the air. That is a 'spot of the foul' PI and not a 5 yard holding. They butchered the Edleman offensive PI where the Ravens DB never turned to make a play on the ball, which would have put them 1st and goal at the 7. They also gave the pats a catch on a Brandon Lloyd push off that lengthened a Pats scoring drive.
This may be is a homer opinion, but the bigger non-calls and phantom calls hurt the Pats more than the Ravens in this game. For example the only reason the Ravens were in the position to win last night was due to a phantom defensive holding call against McCourty that negated a late incompletion on a 3rd and 16... EDIT: I forgot the non call hit to the head (Ed Reed on Jullian Edleman) on 3rd and 9 in the end zone that should have been a 15 yard penalty giving them 1st and goal.

HOWEVER... in the end, the Pats dropped 2 int's and tripped over the white lines in the field on what should have been the 4th int of the night for Flaco giving the Ravens extra chances.

I thought he grabbed him a little too hard and the rules clearly do state you can't put your hands on the officials. So his actions while understandable were wrong. I would expect at least a fine.

The refs have been awful league wide. This lockout needs to end. I'd hate to see it come playoff time and have them blow a crucial call that costs a team a super bowl. On another note my biggest fears have come to fruition. Darelle Revis has a torn ACL and is done for the season.

I agree, he will get a fine... but under the circumstances grabbing at someone who will not explain what they were doing on a field goal with time expired is understandable. I agree that you don't put a hand on an official in any sport. However these guys have done almost nothing to earn the respect of the players of coaches, and respect has to be earned not assigned with a Foot Locker uniform.

Yeah, he'll be fined.  And rightfully so.  However, I can totally understand his frustration.  Both coaches were irate last night, and in many other games.  For a game to end on a questionable play like that, I don't think it was wrong of him to seek out an explanation.  According to Adam Schefter, Belichick had asked every ref if the play was reviewable on their way off the field and none of them stopped to listen/explain.  The LAST encounter was caught on camera.  So, you missed 4 guys blowing him off.  It's not like he targeted one specific ref and ran right up to him to rough him up or anything like that.

He was wrong for making contact.  But the whole thing has to be viewed in context. 

Meanwhile, on Monday Night Football.  I know the Seahawks have a real good defense, and are a tough team at home.  But the Packers offense has been quite pedestrian so far this season.  Rogers has been sacked 7 times in the first half.  Uh, make that 8.  This after getting manhandled by the Bears defense and 49er defense the first two weeks.  Now, again, 3 very good defenses.  But that is some poor play by the O-line, Rogers, Packer offense as a whole.  Not good.  I'd have to think they'll get it figured out eventually, but they do not look good right now.  At least the defense seems to be playing better.

How the mighty seem to have fallen.

How badly do you guys think losing Revis will be for the Jets? The defense is already kinda suspect now they lose the best corner in the league for the season. I think it could potentially end their season already.

Are you goddamn kidding me? Dear NFL, you need to kiss and make up with the refs. These tools suck shit. That was an interception by Jennings. It was not simultaneous reception like you claim. Jennings had clear possession of the ball. I could make better calls then these idiots.

I was too young to remember the replacement players back in 1987, but is there any chance that replacement refs are actually worse for the league?  I mean, this is beyond ridiculous.  Just when you think it can't get any worse, it does.  And then some.  Last nights game had horrendous calls, but even as a Patriot fan I can't say the refs caused the Pats to lose.  The Packers can definately say that tonight.  Just awful!

I was in just as much disbelief as you were when talking on twitter. It was just ridiculous. Lets just say for a second that it was simultaneous reception, which we all know it wasn't but just for argument sake say it was. Even if that was the case it still isn't a touchdown because it was offensive pass interference. The receiver clearly pushes the defender in the back game over.

I agree with you guys. What a cluster fuck. That was nuts.

I want the regular officials back just for the consistency. They get calls wrong, but they are usually consistent. If they call ticky tack plays in the first quarter, the same call usually happens throughout the game. You know the tone the refs set from the get go. These replacement officials are all over the place. Its pathetic and I don't care whose to blame, just get a fucking deal already.

Even increasing the price of beer by 2 cents at games would probably be enough money to end this nonsense :(

Funny thing about it all is that the final review which was the review of the "touchdown" was looked at by the guys upstairs who are infact not replacement officials..they are the ones who made the final call on that game. I think The Comish is just a politician raping a beloved sport is what it boils down to.


Coop

I thought the nfl booth officials were different than the college booth officials. In the NFL, doesn't the main official on the field still run over to the monitor, look at the play and make the call? I know in the past the booth guys just tell him when to review and tell him things like yardage for ball following review, what is reviewable and how much time on the clock but ultimately the on field guy watches the replay and makes the call. At least that is how it use to be in previous years, so unless it changed it was a replacement official who made the final call. Did it change and I just completely spaced?

In the last two minutes of each half all reviews are done by upstairs. Also, all scoring plays are automatically reviewed upstairs.

I was doing my own research. And found this...

http://www.sportsgrid.com/nfl/replacement-officials-replay-booth/


The NFL?s replacement refs are under intense fire today thanks to this, and will be for as long as the NFL and the referees union don?t get a deal done. When a game turns on the last play because of a call that?s (almost) universally labeled inaccurate, that?s what happens. It looks more and more every game like the replacements are in over their heads, and the calls to get the regular officials working again are entirely warranted.

It?s worth remembering, though, that not everyone who has a hand in determining the NFL?s refereeing process is a replacement: the officials in the replay booth are the same as ever. Normally, that might not matter when it comes to a decision like the one made on the game-deciding play last night. While the booth officials are there to help the referees do their job, making the ultimate call is still the referee?s job. On scoring plays, the process goes like this:

    [Plays will be] automatically reviewed by the replay assistant, and if that assistant thinks it?s a close enough call that it warrants a closer look, he?ll buzz down to the on-field referee to take that closer look.

?Well,? you say, ?the play last night was reviewed and the call was upheld, so what else could the booth officials have done?? A valid question, but according to Pro Football Talk?s Mike Florio, there?s been a quiet little shift in responsibility in the replacement-ref-era NFL:

    Under normal circumstances, the decision [on the ruling] would be made exclusively by the referee. Now, with the non-replacement league supervisor in the replay booth along with the non-replacement replay official, the procedure has been, we?re told, blurred a bit, allowing the replacement referee to get input from the folks who otherwise would be saying, essentially, ?Figure it out, Hochuli.?

The ?we?re told? is vague, yes, but it?s also conceivable that the league would quietly give its regular officials some more authority while not publicly throwing the replacements under the bus. Has that happened? Impossible for us to say. It might not have. The replay of last night?s final play might have gone according to normal, non-replacement procedure (which, of course, would help explain why the touchdown call stood despite Tate not appearing to have nearly enough control of the ball to be awarded a touchdown from any angle). But it?s worth remembering that while the on-field officials still do the lion?s share of the game-calling, there are working officials who aren?t replacements.

(Oh, and one other thing: Mike Tirico, as pointed out by Florio in the above piece, said the call of who caught the ball had to be made on the field? except that didn?t make sense, because practically as he said it, the referee announced that the play was under review. Additionally, as Florio points out, the NFL rulebook specifically says that whether a pass was complete, incomplete, or intercepted is subject to review. In short: nothing makes sense and everything is confusing as hell.)



So in normal circumstances I had it right. But it appears lines may be blurred. Booth review, In the NFL, just means that the booth will call down to the official for him to look at it but its suppose to be the on field guy that runs over to the monitor, watches the replay and makes the calls. Which is just stupid, should just do them all like college.

Either way the call should never have been made...I think it's funny how the refs are getting all the shit for this since there are other hands in the cookie jar so to speak


Coop

Sounds like some progress has been made between the NFL and the refs and they are close(r) to a deal. Nothing official yet though. Let's hope they can tie up the loose ends. I was worried this was going to drag on for some time. If Monday night couldn't force the issue, I'm not sure what could.

This needs to end and soon. Hopefully enough progress has been made that the remaining issues won't take too long.

Espn now says the two sides are very close to an agreement and hopefully they can return in time for this weeks games. Tomorrow's game is probably out of the question but this Sunday seems logical if they hurry up.

Those refs are going to get such a warm reception from players and fans alike, well maybe not Seahawk fans  :rofl: That is until they make their first questionable call, then it'll be back to normal.  I never thought I'd miss Ed Hochuli so much.

I think theses replacement refs are doing a fantastic job! (The Raiders only have 14 penalties this season, they are usually good for that in the first game)  Ha all kidding aside these refs blow, they are just not qualified to be doing this job, not really their fault.  Its like putting me out there to play QB for the Giants and then getting pissed at me when I am throwing picks or getting sacked every play.  Oh and by sacked I mean getting absolutely decimated.

Exactly, these are high school and small college refs. They are in way over their head and don't know the pro rules.

And the lockout is over, everyone rejoice!

Now on another note, i am completely dumbfounded by what the Jets are doing in light of Revis' injury. They are converting running back McKnight to corner back. What?

doesn't really matter what they do, unless a lot of things change for them they are playing for next year already. They beat 2 bad teams so far, and have a brutal schedule in the next few weeks.  Rex Ryan has really had the benefit of not having too many devastating injuries to his team the last few years, now he is going to have to step up and find a way to win.  Revis not playing is as devastating an injury as any team will have to endure this year, it literally changes everything.

Yay!  :beer:

Now I can go back to bitching at the guys who are supposed to be blowing calls.  : ok: :hihi:

Excactly! Although, they blow calls a lot less frequently and not so badly that they cost teams games.

I agree, you don't lose a player like Revis and recover from it. Its such a huge blow to their defense.

The best news is we won't have to endure one more game with replacement refs. They will infact be officiating tomorrow night's game. Yay!

damn it.  Watching replacement refs make fools out of themselves was the only interesting thing that was going to happen during a Ravens/Browns game.  Oh well.

Haha yeah, that's gonna be a very lopsided game.

The NY Jets are a joke. First, they need to get rid of Sanchez and than fire their head coach. It's been proven over and over that Sanchez cannot win a Superbowl and is not even an NFL caliber quarterback.

All the grief the referees received was pathetic. All the ESPN elites should just go out shoot themselves. It's unfortunate that Roger Goodell was made out to be the bad guy in all of this just the way he did in 'Bountygate.'

Oh, and Robert Griffin, shut up! This isn't college football anymore and you haven't proven anything to anyone. Your game is be dissected and figured out very quickly!

That game by Sanchez last week had to be the WORST 300 yard passing game in the history of the league.  He was awful in that game.  Fairness to him though, he made the plays at the end when it mattered to win the game.

Anyway, on cue.  Rex is at it again.

http://www.rotoworld.com/player/nfl/4155/darrelle-revis

Coach Rex Ryan stated Friday that the Jets will not place Darrelle Revis (torn ACL) on injured reserve in hopes he can return for the Super Bowl.

The delusional Jets still think they're going to the Super Bowl. Ryan says the Jets will make the I.R. decision after Revis has the knee surgically restructured. Per Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News, "there is no way that Jets doctors would clear Darrelle Revis to play in a game in February. None." Sep 28 - 2:05 PM

That's definitely a silly move. There is no realistic chance he plays again before next pre season.

Rex is all about the headlines, meanwhile the team they share a stadium with is all about doing their job and winning Super Bowls.  I don't know what is more unrealistic, Revis being ready to play at a high level in February or the Jets being in the Super Bowl conversation.  Unreal.  Instead of playing these media games Rex should acknowledge Revis is done and focus on the 53 players he DOES have and show a belief in their ability to step up. 

Agreed completely.

The New England Patriots offense was set to feature its two nightmare matchups in tight ends Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski. The duo signed offseason contracts worth a combined maximum of $95 million.

Now, both are banged up.

Hernandez is out with an ankle injury suffered in Week 2. Gronkowski was a new addition to the injured list Friday with a hip problem. He was listed as limited in practice and questionable for the Patriots' division matchup against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000067334/article/rob-gronkowski-injury-puts-patriots-offense-in-limbo?module=HP11_headline_stack (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000067334/article/rob-gronkowski-injury-puts-patriots-offense-in-limbo?module=HP11_headline_stack)

I hate it for Rob Gronkowski. I'm sitting Rob today in my fantasy league in favor of Tony Gonzalez. I hope he doesn't let me down.

Looking more and more like the Jets need to sit Sanchez for Tebow.

I'm not sure that'll help very much. They just aren't a very good team this year and losing Revis makes them even worse. They could possibly be without Holmes for awhile too.

The Broncos didn't look that great before Tebow took over last year, so who's to say Tebow couldn't have the same effect on the Jets?

The best quarterback in the world isn't gonna help much if you don't have reliable receivers and a defense that can keep the opponent off the scoreboard though.

Should of stayed with Gronk. The bills are not very good. Thats why stayed with him in one of my fantasy leagues. But as another option TG is never a bad choice. He is definitely a top fantasy option.

Once the pats stopped kicking themselves they ran away with it. Was a fun second half. Really wish the pats would put together 4 quarters of good football consistently.

And I hope jets stick with the Sanchize, he needs to sign a contract for life. Or hell, go with Tebow, he plays great against the pats. Same with Fitzy in Buffalo, keep him for life. I hope Rex is coach for a long time with the Jets, I love him and Gailey in Buffalo, helps keep the pats on top. Tannehill has some bright spots, dolphins may need to cut and run so they can stay in competition with jets and bills.  :hihi:

I agree, the Jets have holes all over that team.  I will say however if the Jets get wrecked again next week by Houston I see no harm in throwing Tebow out there, just to see if he could spark something.  If there is any truth to the rumor that Sanchez doesn't have the best rep with his team mates. a simple switch at QB could possibly motivate a few guys to play harder, who knows.

I will say this, and have said it to a lot of friends who are Jets fans over the past few years.  You HAVE to take advantages of the opportunities when they are there.  The Jets lost 2 AFC title games and Jet fans just assumed they would just get back there the next year.  It doesn't work that way in the NFL, the Jets may NEVER get to another AFC title game, thats how crazy this sport is.  Take it from me, in 2002 when the Raiders were getting decimated by the Bucs in the Super Bowl the only thing that made me feel better at the time was assuming that they would find a way to get back there in the near future.  Now 10 years later, they havent even had a winning season never mind a run to the Super Bowl since then.  Going into 2003 since Al Davis took over the Raiders they never had back to back 10 loss seasons, then they had  7 straight 11 loss seasons.  It is a crazy sport. 

Long story short, Rex Ryans window with this team might have closed.

So far Tebow hasn't shown a lot with the Jets.. But Sanchez looked like crap, so I'm good with giving Tebow a shot.

So who wins a game first: Browns or Saints? :hihi:

I think the Texans will remain undefeated the longest - I really think they might be the best team in the NFL.

Its got to be the saints, right? I mean just to much talent offensively to be 0-4 at this point...

The Texans are good, no doubt about it. Level of competition hasn't been great though. Beat Dolphins, Jaguars, Broncos and Titans. Four teams they should easily beat. We should know more about the texans in 3 weeks after they beat the jets they got Packers and Ravens back to back. Both at home too, scheduling gods blessed texans with that. They got a pretty easy schedule. Only tough games left after packers and ravens are bears and pats. With both those teams not playing consistently good football. 

It's still way early, but it looks like the Texans have the clear path to the #1 seed in the AFC with the awful division they play in, and playing the AFC West.  They seem to have the easiest schedule and they have a well balanced team.  Great running game, with 2 dynamic backs.  Good QB, great WR, very good defense.  They are well rounded.

Saints have talent but they just went through so much this off season, and are without their regular coaching staff.  They were destined to take a step back, but right now they've taken a giant leap back.  Their defense is horrible.  Their running game is non existent.  They need to win shootouts.  So far they haven't been able to do that.  I wouldn't be surprised if the Browns win before they do.  They at least play SOME defense.

I say Saints, I wouldnt even rule out the playoffs for them yet.  They have an explosive offense which is more than capable of putting them on a 3 or 4 game win streak to get back to .500 and then go from there.

Romo sure had a rough night.

Time for the Jets to give TO, Ochocinco, or Plaxico a call:

Your right about that I should've stayed with Gronkowski. I still won my fantasy game though thankfully.  :)

Sanchez laid another egg on Sunday. No surprise at all.

I'll say it again, it's time that the Cowboys find themselves a new quarterback. Romo just has never been impressive and doesn't seem to have the ability to lead the Cowboys to a Superbowl win.

To the hopes & dreams of the Buffalo Bills season ticket holders..........................TIME TO DIEEEEEEEEE! :crying:                                                                                               

Things just went from bad to horrible for the Jets, now Holmes is done for the season.

Hey they're still tied for first in the AFC East.  Hold onto that fact as long as you can, because I don't think it'll last.  I didn't think the Jets were going to be very good this year anyway, but those are 2 devastating injuries.  Now we'll never really know if they would've been any good.

You ready for Tebow yet Tim?  I mean Sanchez has been awful.  Maybe Tebow could at least infuse some energy into the team.  Their passing game just went from bad to worse, why not give Tebow a whirl and focus on running the ball and playing solid defense.  It worked for Denver last year.  I have my doubts it would work for the Jets.  But what's the harm in giving it a try?  Unless they STILL believe that Sanchez can be a reliable NFL QB.  Personally I've seen no such evidence of that.  At least not with the players they've surrounded him with.  The leash has to be getting shorter and shorter each week I'd imagine.

yeah, i say give him a chance see what he can do with what we have. I still don't see him making a huge difference that could make us a contender this season though. Perhaps next year when we're healthy.

Glad to hear my Steelers should have Harrison and Polamalu back this weekend :smoking:

And hopefully they'll destroy Michael Vick!  :yes:

No worries...Santonio's such a stabilizing force in the locker room, he'll be able to provide leadership in these tough times for the Jets.   :hihi:
Sorry Timothy, I'd cut that asshole faster than you can say, "team cancer."

Oh, i agree he's a dick but losing him still hurts our offense.

Very reminiscent of Team Obliterator.  :hihi:

This was posted over at www.gnrevolution.com.  Thought it was quite humorous.  How NFL QB's may converse if any and all restrictions were lifted.

http://imgur.com/a/9H0Hv

Reggie Wayne was truly spectacular yesterday.

Michael Vick's turnover woes continue.

 :yes:

And so does the Patriots inability to close out games on offense. Frustrating loss when the unit the team depends on to win games can't come up with the plays in pivotal moments.

Epic comeback by Manning tonight :smoking:

Awesome games between the Giants/Redskins and Jets/Patriots this past weekend -- really happy to see my Steelers back to their old selves as well :smoking:

That Jets/Pats game was insane. The Pats are damn lucky to leave with a victory. The Jets frustrated the hell out of me on their last drive when they took the lead. Why were they so conservative on the first two downs? If they get a first down there the game is over. They would've had an easy field goal and would've been able to run the clock down so that the Pats couldn't tie it.

Those throwback uniforms were pretty awful, but my Steelers looked pretty good Sunday :smoking:

Looks like my Niners are back on top of things!


Coop

Steelers :smoking:

A lot of morons on the NY Jets football team. Is everyone really trying to take the blame off Mark Sanchez and put it on Tim Tebow? Tim has played how many downs this season? The Jets suck and that's not Tim Tebow's fault. The quarterback sucks, the offensive line sucks, the defense sucks, and the special teams suck! Mark Sanchez sucks! He's not an NFL caliber starter. Plain and simple. The Jets and no other NFL team has any chance of ever going anywhere with Sanchez as the starter. The Jets players need to take a look in the mirror at themselves and stop casting blame on others. Their starting to become more and more like the growing number of Americans who don't want to take any self responsibility and would rather just blame everyone else.

Rob Gronkowski broke is forearm and it looks now he'll be out 4-6 weeks.  :(

I'm more concerned about Big Ben and the fate of my Steelers :(

Looks like their season is pretty much over. With the starting and backup quarterbacks both down, even though Leftwich has never been any good, I can't see them winning any games in the near future.

Was happy to see Chicago get a beat down Monday night.  :yes:

They have won games without Ben before. Charlie Batch isn't a total crap backup and they can run the ball. It's going to be really tough but I wouldn't count them out quite yet.

Not so fast ;)

49ers are starting to heat up!!!!!!!!


Coop

NFL Week 12 LMAO!!!!!
Hey everybody, hope your holiday was great. On Thanksgiving the Indians beat the Cowboys. This result brought to you by white guilt.

The 49ers can?t decide which of their two great quarterbacks to go with. Now that?s what the Jets call ?fantasy football.?

Tim Tebow has two broken ribs. From what? Falling off the bench?

According to a Nielsen survey, Tebow is the #1 dinner guest Americans would like at Thanksgiving. I don?t know why. He probably can?t even pass the gravy.

The Jets are so bad right now. Mark Sanchez fumbled by running into his lineman?s ass. It?s sad when your quarterback doesn?t know his teammate?s ass from a hole in the line.

The Seahawks? Richard Sherman denied taking the ADD drug Adderall. But he did so with suspicious focus?

Drew Brees, 54th straight game with a TD pass. Brees hooks up with more guys in New Orleans than Anderson Cooper at Mardi Gras.


Coop

Big Ben ruled out for Sunday :(

The Chiefs have had a horrible season, but nothing compares to the tragic events earlier today.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000103413/article/kansas-city-chiefs-player-fatally-shoots-himself-police-say?campaign=Twitter_atl

Kansas City Chiefs' Jovan Belcher kills himself, police say

    NFL.com
    Published: Dec. 1, 2012 at 10:47 a.m.
    Updated: Dec. 1, 2012 at 01:51 p.m.


Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Jovan Belcher died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the team's training facility after killing his girlfriend in a seperate incident Saturday morning, Kansas City Police spokeman Darin Snapp said.

The shooting occurred at 8:10 a.m. local time at the team's facility near Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City Police communication supervisor Kathy Childs said.

Belcher killed his 22-year-old girlfriend at a nearby residence before driving to the training facility, Snapp told NFL.com's Albert Breer. Police have not released the woman's name, but confirmed she and Belcher had a 3-month-old child.

"About (7:50 a.m), we got a call to a residence, in regards to a shooting, on the 5400 block of Crysler Avenue," Snapp said by phone. "We arrived and the lady there informed us that her daughter had been shot by her on-again, off-again boyfriend. The young woman was taken to a local hospital, where she died a short time later.

"At about 8:10 a.m., we received a call to the Arrowhead practice facility in regards to a black male armed with a gun in the parking lot, and he matched the description of the shooting suspect," Snapp continued. "Officers arrived, saw a black man with a gun to his head, and some Chiefs employees. As the officer got out of his car, he heard a gunshot. It appeared the individual shot himself. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead."

According to Snapp, Chiefs general manager Scott Pioli, coach Romeo Crennel and another unnamed Chiefs staff member were talking to Belcher just before he shot himself, Breer and NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reported. Snapp said Pioli and Crennel "never felt like they were in danger." Belcher thanked Pioli and Crennel for all that they had done for him.

When officers arrived, Belcher walked in the opposite direction from where they were standing. He then shot himself, Snapp said.

Snapp said the shooting occurred outside the front doors of the facility.

The Chiefs released a statement in regard to the incident:

"We can confirm that there was an incident at Arrowhead earlier this morning. We are cooperating with authorities in their investigation."

Belcher, 25, grew up on Long Island, N.Y., and played for the Maine University. There, he was named first-team All American in the Football Championship Subdivision. After going undrafted in 2009, the Chiefs signed Belcher as a free agent. The fourth-year player was named a starting linebacker in 2011.

The Chiefs are scheduled to play host to the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. The Panthers reportedly have been told by the NFL to keep plans to travel to Kansas City for the game.

Man this MNF game was awesome. I thought the patriots would win a close one but damn, they just completely dominated the Texans. Patriots are firing on all cylinders.

The Niners have it ROUGH the next two Sunday nights!


Coop

Good game for the Patriots last night. I wish Rob Gronkowski was playing.

Tom Brady came thru for me in my fantasy league.  :)

Patriots released TE Visante Shiancoe today, leading to some speculation that Gronk MAY be ready to come back this week.  They have that roster spot open, dropped a TE, #1 seed is within reach if they win out and Houston loses one more game (they have 2 left with Indy).  So with the SF game being their biggest test remaining, Gronk would be a nice boost for that contest.  We'll see though.  Too early to tell anything for sure.  Would be nice for me in my fantasy playoffs too though.  I upset the #1 seed last week to make the semis.  I've been getting by with Greg Olsen the last few weeks, and he's actually done pretty well.  But he's no Gronk.  No one is.

Also, Donte Stallworth was placed on IR after ONE game with the Pats.  It was a good one though, with a long TD catch and run.  Made his impact on the season.  Deion Branch is back AGAIN to take his place.

That's great news if Gronkowski is ready to come back! I have him as my #1 fantasy tight end. Him and Tom Brady every week have helped me rack up a lot of points, and wins. I was always worried at the beginning of the season about Gronkowski and Hernandez having to split time. I guess it will just depend on how healthy Gronkowski is now on how much time he'll have to share.

I don't know if cutting Shiancoe really has anything to do with Gronk. It would be nice but I think this is more about Shiancoe not doing anything for the team. They signed him this past off season to a one year deal, he got hurt and they put him on the injured reserve designated to return. Its obvious they had some hopes for him. When he gets back he is a healthy scratch against Miami and has made no impact what so ever, its not surprising they would cut him. He has no catches and the only thing he did against Houston was drop a pass.

It could very well mean nothing. Obviously Shiancoe didn't give them much of anything. Gronkowski is trying to practice this week, so we'll see. I don't think they'll rush him back by any means, but if he's ready, this would be the perfect week to deploy him. If he can't come back this week, they might as well hold him out until the playoffs. Not sure they need him to beat Jacksonville or Miami. Unless of course, they want to get him some action, then they could give him a cameo that last game against the Dolphins.

Being covered by Pat Willis and not having much of a game is a good way to come back??


Coop

Well, he didn't practice today so it looks like a long shot that he'd play this week.  Still a ways to go though.  I'll take my chances with Gronk on the field, with or without Patrick Willis.  He's a beast of a man, and can only help the offense.  Unfortunately we might get to see that matchup this time around.  Willis will have to pick on someone else.

Belichik's playin' with folks' minds...Gronk aint coming back this early.  They'll want him fresh for the playoffs...maybe a little action in the last 2 weeks...but nothing significant...just my 2 cents.

Yeah, I've actually heard he's already been ruled out.  Which makes me think Belichick could be playing with peoples minds, but in the other direction.  It would seem odd they'd rule him out on Thursday, his first day back to practice.  At least keep the 9ers guessing.  But overall I agree, he may get a cameo in the last game of the season, but I'd be pleasantly surprised if he came back any earlier.  They have done fine without him so far, though I'd love to have him back on the field.

Looks like it's all or nothing next week for my Steelers :'(

Crazy game. Loved the fight the Pats showed by attempting the comeback. Brady had pretty dang good run there during that comeback. Give credit where credit is do though. 49ers played great. Got to get better at snaps under center though..damn that was bad.  :hihi:

Cool to see Kirk Cousins get his first NFL start and win yesterday. He definitely needs to be on a team where he's the starter. He's got too much talent to be playing second fiddle.

Dallas wins but Romo hasn't done anything to impress. He could have won the game in regulation at the very end but failed. They win by way of their defense and a field goal instead even though the defense has its problems as well. Romo seems to have good numbers every week although you need to be pretty certain that he can lead the offense down the field to win the game. Or at least score enough points during regulation to win.

I don't look to see Rob Gronkowski back for any significant play before the playoffs. It'd be unwise and risky in my opinion. Right now, I'm pulling for the Patriots to win the Super Bowl.

That game did get quite crazy.  The Pats were lucky to only be down 31-3, as they came out flat and San Fran was the definite aggressor.  They did manage to make a game of it in the end, but 28 point leads are tough to fully overcome.  It just wasn't in the cards.  You have to wonder if the short week after the big Monday Night victory took a little out of the Patriots, as they just did not look well prepared to start that game.  Hand it to the Niners though, they wanted that game more and they went and grabbed it.

It's good to see Brandon Lloyd coming alive of late.  Hopefully Gronk is back and ready to go come playoff time.  Hernandez dropped too many balls last night, like Welker the week before.  And the fumbles by Vereen and Ridley in the running game certainly didn't help.  Not a good performance by the Pats, but again credit to the Niners defense for making the plays.

It looks as if the Pats will have to win on the road if they're going to get back to the Super Bowl, as the Texans are pretty much assured a bye and the Broncos have 2 relatively easy games left.  So the 3 seed and a date with Baltimore or Cincinnati seems to be what's in store for Wild Card weekend.  Then, if they get by that game, a possible trip to Mile High for another Peyton vs. Brady playoff game.  I had a feeling it would come down to that.  Still a ways to go though.

Next Sunday night is the "Blood Bowl" .....that game in Seattle is going to be INSANE!


Coop

How does Andrew Luck not make the Pro Bowl this year? But yet, Ed Reed and Matt Schaub do?  :rant:

The Colts were the worst team in the NFL last year and as a rookie quarterback, Andrew Luck steps in and is now taking the team to the playoffs! :rant:

I agree ^


Coop

Time to hold myself accountable and look back on some bad predictions.


I did ok with AFC. Horrible picks of Chiefs, man they disappointed, and Titan. But did good with other 4 picks.

At least my Superbowl teams are still alive.  :hihi:

Crappy play-off picks will be upcoming late this week. What are your guy's play-off predictions?

It'll be the Broncs and the Niners in the Super Bowl...the Pats win it next year


Coop

Ray Lewis to retire at the end of the playoffs. Farewell to one of the greatest linebackers to ever play the game.

Good riddance to this thug. Never liked him as a player or person, and his silly dance during game introductions made him look like a real fool. I listened to his press conference yesterday and for him to say that his children have paid the ultimate sacrifice is completely asinine. This asshole needs to talk to children who've lost their parent in military combat, lost a parent in the line-of-fire as a police officer, etc. How selfish for him to ever make a comment like that. This moron needs a reality check big time. :rant:

And that takes away from the fact that he's one of the greatest linebackers ever how? Forget you don't like him as a person just look at what he's accomplished on the field. The point is he's one of the greatest players ever not people.

Ray Lewis is like O.J. Simpson. Great player who got away with murder.  :hihi:

I used to have similar negative thoughts about Ray Lewis.  But, even if he was once a BAD man, he seems to have changed his persona and become a respected, upstanding NFL player/citizen.  I watched "A Football Life" on NFL Network about Ray a few months back and it gave a real good insight to the man on and off the field.  He's a deeply religious guy who gives a lot back to the community.  So all in all, I know longer look at him as a BAD man.

As a Patriots fan, the Ravens are the team I'd least like to see come to Foxboro next weekend.  They aren't intimidated by the Pats.  And the incentive of playing out Ray's last go around isn't something I'd look forward to facing.  I think I'd rather take my chances with the Texans again.

Faldor, I agree with ya.  I've got no beef with Ray Lewis.
...and may I say, I do believe the Ravens will right their ship, beat the Colts, then beat the Broncos in Denver...
to set up the AFC Championship game in New England...
where Ray Lewis will play his last game.

Patriots defeat the 49ers in the Super Bowl.
 :peace:

Oh no! The Axl4Prez jinx has been enacted already?  :hihi:

Interesting thoughts. I've sensed it coming down to Brady vs. Manning for months now, but there are a lot of interesting storylines. You have the Ravens now with Ray's last run. Imagine the Colts travelling to Denver. Luck vs. Manning, the whole Chuck Pagano storyline.

But, I hope you're right. For once.

I've liked the 49ers since the beginning of the year in the NFC, so I might as well stick with them. But you can't count out the Packers. And hell, the Seahawks are playing the best football of all right now. Do they have 4 more games left in them?

Whether he's one of the greatest players or not is simply an opinion. Nothing more. I just never liked him as a player or person and gave my reasons why. Most accolades in sports anyway are pretty much a popularity contest so I don't buy into how may "Pro Bowls" he was selected to or how many "MVP's" he was awarded. Evidence was really apparent this year for the Pro Bowl selection.

I hope the Texans, Packers, Colts, and Seahawks all win this weekend.

I don't think Ray Lewis was a bad guy. Probably in the wrong place at the wrong time. I found all his preaching and pregame bullshit more annoying than anything. Even so, in his prime he was one of the best defensive players ever.

Playoff Predictions:

Wild Card Round.

Seattle beats Redskins--Carrol will have that defense containing RG3.

Packers beat Vikings--I wanted the Vikings on this one but outside at home, Packers pull it out.

Texans beat Bengals--Texans bounce back.

Colts beat Ravens--My desire to see Luck v. Manning plays out here. Last Play-off game for Ray Lewis. Luck performs well and first time this season colts look good on road against a good team.

Divisional Round.

Patriots beat Texans--Won't be the blow out the last meeting was but Pats take care of business.

Broncos beat Colts--Manning performs well against former team and will be much hyped going into Afc Championship.

Atlanta beats Seattle--Falcons exercise play-off demons and move on.

Packers beat 49ers--49ers open up offense in passing game a little more, take more chances than they would if Smith was QB. They lose. Kaepernick will have his chances to look better in years to come and 49ers will be better off with him in the future, just not this year.

Conference Championships.

Patriots beat Broncos--Brady plays well against the Bronco defense once again and ends their run. Manning, typical of big games, makes a mistake or two.

Falcons beat Packers--Once again Atlanta proves the doubters wrong and goes to Superbowl

Superbowl

Patriots beat Falcons--Tom Brady wins his 4th Superbowl in easy fashion. First time a Brady Superbowl will not be close. Also my preseason pick.


Thats my prediction for the play-offs. So this will probably not happen.  :hihi:

I got

Seahawks over Skins
Packers over vikes
Houston over Cincy
Balt over Indy

Pats over Houston
Den over Balt
Seattle over Atl
49ers over Packers

Den over NE
SF over Seattle

Den over SF

I like these picks. It would be an enjoyable Superbowl if the Patriots and Falcons were playing.

Greatest linebacker of all-time was, is and always will be Lawrence Taylor. LT was awesome! Yes, I am saying this because I'm a Giants fan.:)

The games today were not very good, for non packer and texan fans that is. I hope tomorrow produces at least one good game.

Now Bruce Arians is in the hospital. Reports are he's joking around and wants to coach but dr's won't let him leave. Has a virus or inner ear infection which caused a bad flu according to reports. Good to hear he will be ok but a really tough spot for the Colts. Tough to lose your play caller and leader for most of the season. Just tough, feel bad for them.

I got 3 out 4 in my picks this weekend with only the Colts losing.

Broncos over Ravens
Packers over 49ers

Seahawks over Falcons
Patriots over Texans


Broncos over Patriots
Packers over Seahawks


Broncos over Packers

I think Griffin is extremely fragile and will have a shortened career being so injury-prone.

packers-seahawks would be the most anticipated rematch since Creed/Balboa. i'm keeping my fingers crossed for that one!

I just want the Patriots in the superbowl. I don't care who they face. Though for the sake of being right on preseason picks for once, would be nice if it was Falcons v. Patriots.

(in my best Rocky Balboa voice)  "There aint gonna be no rematch!"

Pats are locks for the Super Bowl.
The winner of the Packers-Niners game will meet Tom Terrific in the big game.   :yes:

4-4!!!!

actually, it's Creed that mumbles right after the final bell sounds "ain't gonna be no rematch," and Rocky responds "don't want one." what a movie! one of my top 5 movies ever. great lesson for kids too...it's a perfect example of it doesn't matter if you win or lose, it's how you play the game. in Rocky's mind, he "won" cause he gave it his all and went the distance with the champ. he doesn't even listen to the announcement of the judges scores (and you can only barely hear them in the movie). he doesn't care.

i agree with you on the Pats. NFC is way more wide open. i can easily see any of the four teams making it to the SB and winning. it seems like in all of sports these days, the team that is hot down the stretch carries that momentum with them into the playoffs and make a run. that team this year is Seattle.

Yes!  Thanks for the reminder on Rocky...I love that freakin movie...now I have to admit, I am the pussy that cries every god damned time the movie ends.  Great, great, GREAT movie!

Shit I Cry also

49ers will beat the Broncos in the Superbowl...mark my words!  :rofl:


Coop

Okay, against the spread this week, who you GOT!

Falcons  -2 1/2
49ers    -3
Ravens  +10
Pats       -9 1/2

Niners-Pats Super Bowl.
Pats win it all!

I hope Denver, Green Bay, Atlanta, and New England all win this weekend.

And also, ESPN finally got one right by firing that moron for his comments about Griffin. 

Falcons -2.5
Packers +3
Broncos -10
Pats -9.5

Denver vs Green Bay in the Super Bowl with Denver winning in a close one (FG or less)

Falcons -2 1/2
Green bay +3
Ravens +10
Pats -9 1/2

Pats/Falcons superbowl.

1 right, 3 to go!  :)

Well 0-2 on normal picks this week so far. Manning made the stupid mistake in a big game that he usually does, just a week earlier than I thought he would. BTW what kind of pathetic d was that at the end of regulation? I thought some of the pats secondary was in there.

Kaepernick throws a pick 6 like I thought he would, just didn't expect him to make up for it so spectacularly.

A4P sweeps the Saturday pix!  Today, remember, it's the Patsies -9 1/2 and Falcons -2 1/2.

Enjoy the games!   :peace:

I think it's funny that Peyton Manning and all his spastic moves looked horrible Saturday. I wouldn't be surprised if somewhere Tim Tebow is laughing this year that the Broncos couldn't even get one playoff win. Which means, the Clown's dance and egomaniac survives for at least one more week.

Crazy end to that falcons game. Happy for tg. For him to get his first play-off win is cool and for him to be the one who catches the pass that sets up the game winner is even cooler.

Yeah, crazy! And what about the kickoff after the go-ahead field goal? That wasn't very smart and could've been extremely detrimental. Good to see Matt Ryan finally get a playoff win. I think San Fransisco will be a hard team to beat next week.

I forgot to mention how horrible the Broncos secondary is. They looked like small children trying to defend adults.

GO Patriots!

Pats win but at a huge cost. Gronkowski rebreaks his forearm and is done for the season and will require a second surgery.

Yeah but at least they're use to playing without him by now. They'll be ok.

Tom Brady and Bill Belichick go to their 7th AFC Championship game. What a run its been. Now keep rolling baby! GO PATS!

A huge disappointment that Gronkowski is out for the season. I was hoping the Patriots would get to the Super Bowl and he'd have an awesome game.

that is true. Last year he got hurt in the AFC Champ and he was pretty much a non factor in the Super Bowl. They only had 2 weeks to come up with a game plan that didn't center around Gronk. This year they've played without him for the last month plus basically. So it won't be as tough a transition. Obviously they're a better team with him and I think he's the one player the Pats have that no other team really has an answer for. I was hoping they could use that to their advatage in the playoffs. But, it was clear that Gronk wasn't the same. So now they have to plan ahead without him. It makes things a little harder, but not impossible.

Sounds like Woodhead might be okay going forth. Not sure about Chandler Jones, their best pass rusher this year. He was limping around after the game last night. That could be a pretty big loss for them too. Every team remaining had dealt and is dealing with injuries though. It's nothing new. It's a war of attrition.

You're right faldor, even before he left the game when he broke it again you could tell he just wasn't the same. Even if he didn't brake it again it was clear he wasn't able to play at the same level he's used to.

I still think the offense rests on Welker and has for a couple years. Obviously Gronk possesses huge match up problems and is one of the best TE's in the league but i think if Welker is out instead of Gronk, it hurts more. I just think Welker is the guy that makes that machine go and Gronk was a guy that compliments that very well. Best te in the game but the way they scheme it almost revolves around how opponents line up against Welker. How often have we seen Welker clearing out the area for Gronk? It happens a lot or at least seemed that way to me. Also, Brady depends on him, I think it would be a really difficult adjustment for Brady and that offense. Speaking of Welker, if he or Lloyd go done who are the Patriots going to rely on? The WR depth on that team is not very good. Branch and Slater are the only other guys. I was holding my breath on those Welker hits. Hernandez is like a WR but he's not one. Hell of a te though.

Regarding Jones, reports say he was limping but not in a walking boot and they say no walking boot is a good sign because it means the injury is most likely day to day and the medical staff isn't too concerned with the injury. So hopefully that is a good sign.

Pats favored by 9. I think thats a little much, even this early. I would go 5 or 5.5. I think pats win by a td but 9 is alot.

Still can't wrap my head around the Broncos taking a knee with 31 seconds and 2 time-outs left in the 4th ???

That was definitely puzzling. Ultimately they made lots of mistakes that in the end cost them the game though.

Oh I agree on Welker.  He is hugely important.  That's why it was such a blow in 2009 when he got hurt in the last game of the regular season.  In turn they got blown out by the Ravens in the first round of the playoffs.  Julian Edelman actually filled in admirably for him, but he's not the same type of player.  And, as he proved again this season, he can't stay healthy.  Welker takes so many hits, yet keeps getting back up for more.  They certainly would be lost without him, especially with Edelman out.  There's nobody that could come close to replacing him on the current roster.  That's why I think they need to sign him this off-season.  They dicked him around earlier this season, trying to prove they could do it without him.  Well, that didn't work out too well, and it didn't last long either.  I think he'd take a little less to stick around, they just need to give him a 3 year deal or so to get it done.  I realize he isn't getting any younger, and he has a lot of wear and tear on that body with 100+ catches for 5 straight seasons.  But nobody does what he does, so lock that man up.

I expect a closer game next week against the Ravens.  While I don't think they're a GREAT team, they play hard and they play the Patriots tough.  They seem to have the blueprint to at least stick with them, if not come out on top.  I do think the Pats are clearly the better team, but the better team doesn't always win, as we all know too well.  I would think that line would come down as the week progresses, but we'll see.  Baltimore will be playing their 3rd playoff game in as many weeks, coming off a double OT game out west.  Lots of travel, an older team.  Fatigue could become a factor late in the game on Sunday.   

I think the Ravens have a lot of momentum right now so this worries me about this weekend's game. New England doesn't need to mess around and lose to this team.

Pats-49ers SuperBowl .....Can the Pats stop the Niners?  :no:


Coop  : ok:

The Ravens are a dangerous team right now...I'd hate to see them make it to the big game

So Chip Kelly to the Eagles. Thoughts?

My first reaction was thinking of some of the big games Oregon has been in and how conservative Kelly was in those games. I actually expect a more conventional offense with some hurry up mixed in but I don't believe, as some do, that he is going to try to emulate what he did at Oregon.

Curious if it works out. I don't like very many of the personnel moves the eagles have made over the last 2 to 3 years and think ultimately they will be seeking a new coach and front office personnel in three to four years. I think Kelly's failure will come from the front office more than anything else. Unless he's given some say so, than maybe it could work out differently depending whether or not he is any good at personnel decisions.

I heard about this Jason Taylor story through out the week but just read it a few minutes ago. I thought I would share the link so people who haven't read it, can. It is an interesting read and shows a side of football most don't really want to think about. It is disturbing in a way, for me anyway. And illustrates the issues that need to be corrected and how teams and players need to work together to promote safety in a league that really doesn't care about health while playing. They seem to only pretend to care...

http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/01/13/v-fullstory/3179926/dan-le-batard-jason-taylors-pain.html

Well, it seems that time of the year again when the shameless NFL rams it's ugly head with the silly and asinine "Rooney Rule." Now there's talk of expanding the rule since the lack of diversity is such a big "problem" in the league's eyes. Why does the league think they should control team ownership in who they interview and possibly hire? Why not leave it up to ownership who they want to interview and hire instead of having a league force their hand?

This is one of the many ways what makes the NFL stand for the...No Fun League!

As for the hiring for the Eagles head coaching position, we'll have to wait and see. Anyone ever noticed how Kelly talks out of the side of his mouth? Very annoying trait. Always thought he looked like a bum in his black slacks and black shoes he wore on the sidelines.

....ATL......BALTIMORE.......'nuff said :beer:

Well you were half right.

Goodbye pats and good riddance! Please let the door hit you in the ass on the way out!  : ok:

It utterly sickens me what a sore loser jerk Bellichik is, again refusing to do the post game interview after a playoff loss. Every other coach does it. It makes it so easy to root against this jackass and his team pulling shit like this.

 
It can be maddening for fans of opposing teams of New England, because they've been one of the most dominant franchises in Sports over the past 13 years, and they handle themselves differently than a lot of teams.

You don't hear the type of trash talk from their players, like what Suggs had to say yesterday. A player who is a shell of his former self, and has won exactly nothing in his career(yet).

Can't win 'em all. Baltimore proved to be the better team yesterday. Glad I missed the second half to get to the epic Soundgarden show at the Orpheum.
Certainly didn't miss much from a Pats fan's perspective.

I'll still take Belichick over any other coach in the NFL, and won't be surprised to see the Pats back in the thick of it this time next season.
Who wants to listen to a Belichick interview anyway?

To me its just a respect thing. He does interviews when they win but not when they lose. It just makes him look like an ass imo. They were ripping him for it even on the postgame. As for Suggs he probably shouldn't have done that at least not until they won. You win you earn the right to talk trash but at least wait til you win the damn game.

Its just another reason in a long list of reasons for people to continue to hate on the patriots and belichick. He gets singled out here because he continually, win or lose, has scoffed at doing on field interviews.

in reality bill is an ass to the media, usually. And it is a cheap move but lets not pretend he doesn't do this all the time. He is rarely, very rarely in fact ever involved in a on field interview after a game. The only super bowl post game on field interview I remember him doing is the one at the podium you do when you receive the trophy, which is short and if not required by the nfl, I think he would defer to his players.

He hates on the media and makes their job more difficult and he gets called out for it. In this instance, it was over the top.

Yeah, I think it's more a fact of that's just who Belichick is as a person.  He doesn't exactly get out there and become Mr. Friendly when they win either.  That's just who he is.  And he couldn't be more respectful to other teams and players.  If you ever listen to his weekly press conferences, he'll make you believe that the Jaguars are Super Bowl contenders.  There are a lot of coaches and players who say and do worse things than Bill.  But I get it, if you have a lot of success over the years, people love it when you lose.  Same goes for the Yankees, the Lakers, Duke basketball, etc.  Just goes with the territory I guess.  Hopefully ONE of these years they can actually win again.  It would make all the hatred more meaningful. 

As for the game.  Ravens played a GREAT game yesterday.  Completely outplayed the Pats, especially in that 2nd half.  Once Talib left the game, the Patriots were never able to recover.  Their secondary reverted to their early season form of being, um, not that good.  Regardless though, you're not going to win many games scoring 13 points.  The Ravens seem to have the blueprint on how to stop Brady and the Patriot offense, like the Giants.  Maybe one of these years Gronkowski will be available, and healthy, the last game of the season.  Would be nice, considering he's the only true deep target the Patriots have, as unconventional, as that is.  I thought Brandon Lloyd was going to help in that respect this season, but he just didn't do what I thought he could do.  Not that he was bad, he just wasn't as advertised.  It'll be interesting to see what they do with Welker next season.  He had another HUGE drop last night.  BUT, he is still so important to what the team does.  He got knocked around and stayed in the game, as he always does.  I think people kind of forget that at times, and just focus on the crucial drops.  It's probably not easy to get knocked silly constantly and maintain 100% concentration the rest of the way.  I can only imagine.

How is Talib btw? He took a nasty nasty hit. They showed him walking into the tunnel and he was seriously wobbly.

Wes Welker's wife apologizes
ESPN.com news services

Last year, Tom Brady's wife had some harsh words following the conclusion of the New England Patriots' season, this year it's the wife of wide receiver Wes Welker that is making news.

Welker's wife, Anna Burns Welker, took to social media site Facebook to take a few shots at Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis on Sunday night after the Patriots' 28-13 loss to the Ravens in the AFC Championship Game.

Patriots Offseason

Patriots

The Pats' season ended with a "crash landing" in the AFC title game. An offseason of decisons looms. Blog Live
? Top priorities | Biggest needs
? Reiss: Piecing together losses ?
? Brady wants Welker back ? Walker ?
? MacMullan: Mojo was missing Video
? Reiss: Can't keep up with Flacco Video

More coverage ?

"Proud of my husband and the Pats. By the way, if anyone is bored, please go to Ray Lewis' Wikipedia page. 6 kids 4 wives. Acquitted for murder. Paid a family off. Yay. What a hall of fame player! A true role model!" Burns Welker said in a since-deleted post on her personal Facebook page.

Burns Welker released a statement to sports blog Larry Brown Sports apologizing for her remarks:

"I'm deeply sorry for my recent post on Facebook. I let the competitiveness of the game and the comments people were making about a team I dearly love get the best of me. My actions were emotional and irrational and I sincerely apologize to Ray Lewis and anyone affected by my comment after yesterday's game.

"It is such an accomplishment for any team to make it to the NFL playoffs, and the momentary frustration I felt should not overshadow the accomplishments of both of these amazing teams."

Wes Welker led the Patriots in receiving Sunday with 117 yards and a touchdown on eight catches in the loss, but could have played his last game for New England as he is set to become a free agent this offseason.

Lewis, who announced weeks ago that he would retire at the conclusion of Baltimore's season, led all players with 14 tackles.

Well so much for the pats being respectful. It wasn't a player but still stupid move.

Talib says he'll be alright. Unfortunately, its a bit late. Ridley got knocked out cold in that game though. That didn't look like fun. I still don't think that was a fumble either. Dah well!

Pats need help at CB, so re-signing Talib would seem to be a good start, but I think they need to do more than that. Also need help at WR, both Welker and Edelman are FA's. And as always, they could use another pass rusher or 2. I've been saying that for nearly a decade now and will continue until my needs are met.

Also, the Patriot wives need to adhere to the "Patriot Way" and keep their mouths shut. Last year Gisele, this year Welker's wife. Although, a lot of people may agree with her thoughts on Ray Lewis, she should have taken the high road.

With Gisele all the reports were saying she was being heckled while waiting at an elevator and just reacted in the heat of the moment. I understood that and kinda of gave it a pass because she most likely wouldn't be use to that type of fan treatment. However with Welker's wife she went on facebook and typed it out and than had to post it. It may have been a quick reaction in the moment but it's much different when you have time to type it, think about it and than post it and there is no excuse for that. It was stupid and classless and she should take some flack for that.

Another off-season and another round of needs that look the same. Wide receiver, Cornerback, defensive line. You have to give the patriots credit for being able to compete and be in the hunt for a superbowl every year but you also have to slam them for being unable to address the pass rush and secondary for years. And now wide reciever the last couple. I love Belichick and I always will, that doesn't mean I can't criticize their personnel moves which should be criticized.

There is good news though. If Talib is resigned it appears they finally have their first true #1 corner since Samuel. And McCourty is a decent safety so that helps too. Chandler Jones had a good rookie season and hopefully he can continue to grow and preform at a high level which would finally help some of those needs the patriots have failed to meet on a consistent basis. But more needs to be done.

Yeah, I do think the Patriots are moving in the right direction on the defensive front.  They've gotten younger, faster, better.  But they're not there yet.  I just hope they get there before Brady calls it quits.  They've been rebuilding that defense for at least 3 years now, really since that 07 Super Bowl, and it still isn't where it needs to be.  As good as Brady and the Patriots offense is, defense still wins in the end. 

I do hope they retain Talib, because he did make the defense that much more respectable.  However, he showed to be a bit injury prone during his short stay.  So I don't think they can stop at just him.  Obviously Kyle Arrington isn't a viable replacement as a full time CB.  And as good as Chandler Jones and Rob Ninkovich were this year, they still need more in the pass rushing department.  All those 2 guys really did, was replace Andre Carter and Mark Anderson from last season.  Need more pressure, plain and simple.  And it appears they STILL need another deep threat, or at least someone who can stretch the field a little.  Other than Gronkowski, nobody on the roster really fits that mold.

So yes, another off-season, and the same holes needed to be filled.  Which can be frustrating.

That hit on Ridley was nasty. It was really a scary moment. It was close but i did think the ball started to come loose before he hit the ground. Agreed there are lots of people who share her views on Lewis but we also can agree she needs to keep her mouth shut, especially on something like facebook.

It looks like Brady may face discipline for his sliding with his leg up on that one play. Also, the home of their DB Martin was robbed during the game. Sometimes i really hate people. What an asshole thing to do.

That was the Ty Cobb slide.  He really should know better than to do that.  I can't see how his intention was anything but malicious on that play, but even giving him the benefit of the doubt, it just looked bad.

Ed Reed said that Brady called him to apologize for the slide/kick. FWIW.

It was just a bad idea all the way around. He could've not only injured an opposing player but also himself.

Yeah, but unfortunately guys don't often think of the consequences in the heat of the moment.  I'm sure Brady was pissed at the lack of success he was having and just sort of let out some aggression that way.  Not smart, but more reactionary.

Pats signed a pass rusher today from the CFL.  Hoping for a Cameron Wake like find.  Strange story surrounding this guy.

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/extra_points/2013/01/patriots_sign_d_7.html?camp=misc:on:twit:patriots&dlvrit=834384

Patriots sign DL Armond Armstead
Shalise Manza Young

According to the NFL transaction wire, the Patriots have signed defensive tackle Armond Armstead, a 6-foot-5-inch, 298-pound Southern Cal product, to a futures contract.

Armstead spent the 2012 season with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League, helping the team win the Grey Cup championship, and was named a league All-Star.

But there is an interesting back story that led to him ending up in Canada:

While at USC, where he played from 2008-10, Armstead says he was improperly given injections of Toradol, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, and those injections led to him suffering a heart attack in March 2011.

He says he was not informed when he was given the injections what the medication was or that there was a risk of heart attack or stroke when taking it.

Armstead was briefly hospitalized, and USC would not clear him medically to play in 2011. He thought about transferring to another college but opted instead to turn pro. He was not taken in the NFL draft or signed as a free agent in 2012, likely because of concerns over his health history. Armstead went to the CFL instead.

Last August, Armstead brought suit against USC, University Park Health Center, USC team physician James Tibone, and an unnamed pharmaceutical company.

And here's an inflammatory story if I've ever heard one.

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/01/22/tim-brown-bill-callahan-wanted-to-lose-the-super-bowl/

Tim Brown: Bill Callahan wanted to lose the Super Bowl
Posted by Michael David Smith

Former Raiders wide receiver Tim Brown is doubling down on his stunning allegation that his old coach Bill Callahan purposely lost Super Bowl XXXVII.

Appearing on Pro Football Talk on NBC Sports Network, Brown was asked by Erik Kuselias if he believes Callahan was just incompetent, or if he believes Callahan was actively trying to lose the Super Bowl. Brown chose the latter.

?I can?t say the man was incompetent because he was far from that,? Brown said. ?You only leave me with one other choice so I?ll have to go ahead and take the latter of those two choices.?

Brown said that after preparing on Monday through Thursday before the Super Bowl for a run-first offense, Callahan sprung a new game plan on his players, a pass-first game plan that, according to Brown, Callahan knew would cost the Raiders the game.

?Why would you change the game plan so close to the game if you know the negative repercussions of that could cost you the game?? Brown said.

These allegations by Brown ? which were bolstered today by another player on that team, Jerry Rice ? are stunning. So far, Callahan hasn?t responded. But he needs to speak out and give his side of this story. Because he?s being accused by two of his greatest players of taking the Silver and Black to the Super Bowl, and then committing the greatest sporting scandal since the 1919 Black Sox.

Looks like I won't be watching the Super Bowl this year with the musical guest that will be performing to the teams that will be playing. No interest at all! Hopefully next year will be better.

Now that is a rather strange story. Interested to see how he helps the pats. Is he guaranteed a roster spot?

Hmm, well if i remember correctly Tim Brown was kind of a dick. So this isn't all that surprising.

Even though Brady apologized and i don't think it was malicous i still think he'll probably be fined for the play. Just so the league can say they are staying consistent for similar plays.

What similar play? Its not like a cheap shot after the whistle and it's vastly different than a helmet to helmet like Pollard was bitchin about. I dunno, I agree it'll probably be a fine. I'm still bitching about belichick getting a fine for ref contact...  :hihi:


Several Raiders, not just Brown, have come public bitching about the coaching job done in superbowl 37 and that they felt it was possible Callahan gave it away. I call total bull-shit to that. They lost their starting center 3 days before the superbowl, right around the time they say the game plan changed. I wonder if the coach felt the back up center who only had 2 snaps all season would be a liability in the run blocking scheme against one of the best run defenses in the league.

Anything is surely possible but i agree i'm calling bullshit too on Tim Brown.

I don't know if its guaranteed but probably as close to guaranteed as you can get. He had interest from several different teams and many felt he would have been a 2nd round draft pick had he not had the health problems. He had a great season in the CFL, which i know doesn't mean all that much but he stayed healthy which is what NFL teams really wanted to see. I'm hopeful he can perform a back up role and perhaps earn some time playing next to wilfork. I'm also of the opinion that a interior rusher was needed and perhaps this means the patriots don't need to spend a draft pick on one.

http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4739148/armstead-gets-655k-guaranteed

Armstead gets $655k guaranteed
By Mike Reiss & Field Yates

In a reflection of how the Patriots view defensive lineman Armon Armstead as a part of their future, the team guaranteed him $655,000 as part of his contract.

This is unusual for a player signing a "futures" contract, which Armstead did Tuesday.

Armstead's pact is a three-year deal, with base salaries of $405,000 in 2013, $495,000 in 2014, $585,000 in 2015.

The entire $405,000 base salary in 2013 is guaranteed, while $250,000 of the base salary in 2014 is guaranteed.

This is a strong indication that the Patriots view Armstead as part of their roster in 2013, as well as an indication that the team had competition to sign him. Armstead was a highly touted prospect before a medical issue (heart) cost him his 2011 season at Southern Cal and ultimately led him to the Canadian Football League in 2012.

There is an unspecified injury waiver as part of the deal, which presumably would allow the Patriots to get out of the contract in the event a physical wasn't passed.

As i expected Brady has been fined by the league $10,000 for the slide at the end of the first half of the AFC Championship.

Darrelle Revis: Which teams will go after Jets CB?

The Darrelle Revis trade rumors will be one of the biggest stories of the offseason. The New York Jets don't seem to mind.

Jets owner Woody Johnson had a chance to deny reports that he wanted to trade New York's All-Pro cornerback. Johnson chose not to. One source told ESPNNewYork.com that Johnson already assumes Revis will leave in 2014. A CBS reports indicates a market is already forming. Let's break down his most likely suitors.

Early favorites

The next three names were mentioned by Mike Freeman as teams that are "highly interested" so they make a great starting point for the following irresponsible speculation and dot connecting:

Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks love physical cornerbacks who can play man coverage tight to the line of scrimmage. They weren't afraid to be bold in past moves. They are in the NFC, which should be an advantage. And Jets GM John Idzik has a close relationship with the Seahawks front office. Despite a strong pair of starting cornerbacks, this could be the most logical fit.

San Francisco 49ers: Jim Harbaugh's secondary isn't exactly thin, but the team could consider cutting Carlos Rogers if they added Revis.

Denver Broncos: John Elway is in win-now mode because of Peyton Manning's age and doesn't seem afraid to make a bold mood. With promising youngster Chris Harris in place, the Broncos would have a nice-looking secondary. Champ Bailey could potentially move to free safety.

Other possible fits

Green Bay Packers: Freeman references the Packers as a possibility mentioned by "league sources." Green Bay doesn't go out of "draft-and-develop" mode too often, but Charles Woodson and Ryan Pickett are notable exceptions.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Bucs showed last year they are willing to make a splash in free agency. There's a huge need at the position and plenty of cap space.

Kansas City Chiefs: The need and cap space isn't quite as big for Kansas City, but Andy Reid showed in his final years in Philadelphia that he was willing to go after the splashiest name available.

Cincinnati Bengals: This is probably a long shot, but the Bengals do have an extra second round pick. But would Revis consider signing long-term?

Washington Redskins: There's not a lot of cap room on paper, but that can be managed. Dan Snyder usually gets in the middle of action like this. Mike Shanahan and Bruce Allen have the same history.

Not going to happen

AFC East rivals: The Bills and Patriots reportedly would be interested in Revis, but there's no way the Jets would deal him to someone in the division.

Other factors

1. Revis is coming off a torn ACL. This makes any potential trade a lot more complicated.

2. It's hard to imagine any team trading Revis without working out a long-term deal with him. No one wants to trade picks for a one-year rental.

3. Revis' contract prevents the Jets from using the franchise tag on him. It also essentially prevents Revis from holding out. If he holds out, Revis can't void the deal after 2013.

4. The Jets owe Revis $1 million shortly after the new league year starts in March. Ideally, a potential trade would happen before that date.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000130940/article/darrelle-revis-which-teams-will-go-after-jets-cb (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000130940/article/darrelle-revis-which-teams-will-go-after-jets-cb)

Well, 1 outta 2 aint bad...I thought it was gonna be Niners-Patsies...(sorry faldor!)...but seeing as how we are gonna be seeing Ravens-Niners...
Axl4Prez is rolling with...

...


...Niners -3 1/2.

I will be rooting for U. of Delaware product Joe Flacco...BUT, I'd be just as happy to see Randy Moss get a ring. 
Anything could happen...one thing's for certain, lots of pizza, chips, a few drinks, good commercials...Axl with a surprise halftime performance! (hey, a fan can dream right?) 
Lookin' forward to next Sunday. 
 :peace:

Right alongside Bouncy, eh?  :hihi:

Joe Flacco is criticizing the NFL for having the Super Bowl in a cold weather stadium. This is fucking stupid. The championship games are in cold weather stadiums. The Super Bowl used to be played in places like Green Bay. The elements should be part of the game imo.

Steroids in football is old news, but it still irritates me that it's mainly been perceived as a baseball problem...

http://deadspin.com/5979930/ray-lewis-reportedly-used-a-banned-substance-for-years-but-no-one-cares-because-its-football

Lots of Ravens players seem to heal much quicker than expected.  They must have a great training staff there in Baltimore.  : ok:

Unfortunately, that's just not true...had it been the case, my Vikings would have likely won one of the four Super Bowls they lost!  :(
The 1st cold-weather Super Bowl ever will be played in NY in 2014.

Personally, I'm surprised small-market teams never made a push for the big game being held in their neck of the woods.
I have NO problem with a cold-weather Super Bowl btw.
I think the original plan for Super Bowls being held in warm-weather climates had more to do with putting fannies in the seats.  Needless to say, nowadays, there's not a snowball's chance in hell of a NON-sold out Super Bowl...in the beginning, that wasn't the case. 

btw, the Axl4Prez lean-meter is leanin' hard towards the Niners.  This has blow-out potential unfortunately.  No matter...good commercials (hopefully), pizza, chips, some mixed drinks...it will be a good night no matter what. 
 8)

I thought at least one had been at Lambeau? Was that the AFL championship? I like that it'll be in a cold climate next year. It will make for a much more interesting game it think.

Not doubting, just curious on your reasons for leaning towards 49ers. I think everyone (including Vegas +3.5) is seriously sleeping on the Ravens. If you had lined up all the favorites to get to or win the Super Bowl before the playoffs started, many people would have had Broncos and Pats #1 and 2. Baltimore went on the road and beat both of them. I'm a big believer in looking at just the playoffs instead of stats from Week 2 and 3 when it comes to picking a Super Bowl winner.

So, I'm wondering what's up with the Niners that I don't know about.

Also, someone mentioned small market teams hosting the Super Bowl. Didn't Jacksonville host one a few years back and everyone complained about lack of hotels, cabs, places to eat, etc.?

I think I'm leaning towards the Ravens too.  They looked terrible about a month ago, and their defense really wasn't good all year.  While San Fran was always among the best teams in the league.  BUT, Baltimore has seemed to up their game as of late.  2 very impressive playoff wins.  Not that San Fran has looked bad, but Baltimore just seems to have something special going right now.  And that team that gets hot at the right time often wins, especially in recent years.  The Ravens seem to fit that mold perfectly.  So even though I think the 9ers are a better overall team, I think the Ravens will win.  Though I'll be pulling for the 9ers.

Baltimore looks like a team on a mission to get Lewis another ring before he hangs it up.

I think my rationale for the 49ers is...I just don't see the Ravens being the kind of team that could come back after being down 2 td's...especially against the Niners D.
Basically, Niners up by 14 or more, this could turn into a blowout...that said,
Ravens up by 14, the Niners showed what they can do down by 2 td's against the Falcons.

I like Gore...I LOVE Lamichael James...they'll be deadly running out the clock in the 4th quarter.
Niners run it down the Ravens throat...Ravens D keys on containing kaepernick, allows for big plays downfield 1 to Moss or Crabtree. 2 to VD.
Ravens offense abandons run early, down by 2 td's, Niners pass-rush is dominant. 
For some reason, I'm seeing 30-17.  (Akers redeems himself 3 of 3)

btw, 30-10 late, Ravens get a td late to make it look closer than it is.

...at least that's what I see when I polish up my crystal ballz.  :)

Haven't been this unexcited for a Super Bowl in years :(

I know, and having the Harbaugh brothers facing each other adds to the unexcitement.  There's no hatred there.  Too much respect.  Give me something I can work with!

I don't disagree, but I also don't think the Falcons D is nearly as good as the Ravens D is RIGHT NOW.  So coming back from 2 TD's down is a much easier task against Atlanta than it is Baltimore in my opinion.  In other words, I don't see either team jumping out to a big lead.  I think the teams are pretty evenly matched.  49ers D is a bit better, but the Ravens have that bend but don't break D going at full strength right now.  And the offenses are similar in a way.  Both are keyed by the running game.  Kapernick is a bit of a wild card at QB and he's been playing well.  I keep waiting for him to make key rookie mistakes, but aside from the pick 6 against the Packers, he's avoided that.  And Flacco has been playing about as well as you could expect for the Ravens.  Not making mistakes and making the big throws when he needs to.

Should be a good game.  At least I hope, since I really could care less who wins.

What about the fact it should be a good game?

and don't forget AWESOME FOOD AND TASTY DRINKS!!!   : ok:

No, my Vikes aren't in this, but I respect these teams for getting here. 

btw, I sure hope there aren't any Patriots doing work on the sidelines...ya know, doing interviews or sideline coverage...fuckin' Bernard Pollard of the Ravens would be taking out their knees!  Wait a minute, what forum am I in?  Oh yeah, he would take out their kn-kn-kn-kn-kn-kna-knees!   :hihi:

How do the Ravens contain Kaepernick?  I just don't think they've got an answer.

Blackout bowl 2013 LOL!

I don't think I could be any more consistent picking games...CONSISTENTLY BAD!  HA!  It's a damn good thing I don't gamble.  :)

One good thing that came out of this Raven super bowl win; Every time the Ravens have won a super bowl, the Patriots have won the Superbowl that followed. 100% of the time. Book it! Championship!  :hihi:

LOL impossible to put much weight behind that since the Ravens only won their second ever last night.

Here's to looking forward to the 2013 season, a better Super Bowl, and better musical artist.  :yes: : ok:

P.S. Glad the clown and clown's dance is finally over with. I've never heard a more selfish player use the word "I" so many times. Good riddance!

Tom Brady's facebook page after restructuring his deal to free up cap space for the Pats over the next 2 seasons.  I know I don't need to point out how good a player he is, but he's arguably an even better teammate.

Tom Brady

Every part of what I do depends on the group of guys I play with.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=511925982181890&set=a.233362006704957.53331.214003275307497&type=1&theater

Joe Flacco is now the highest paid player in NFL history. He and the Ravens have agreed to a 6 yr 120.6 million dollar contract.

Which is why Tom Brady will continue to bring his teams to AFC Title Games and Super Bowls on a regular basis and Joe Flacco will not.  That is not a knock on Joe, he more than outplayed his previous contract, but sinking that kind of money into him will hurt the Ravens.   Flacco got his ring, now its time to get paid, good for him.

I agree, he deserved to get paid well but highest ever well? No way.

Some tough decisions coming soon for my Steelers :(

Talk about cashing in at the right time.  Earlier this season lots were speculating if he'd even be with the Ravens next season.  Now, he's the highest paid player in the game.  The cap hit for the final year of his deal is ridiculous, so they'll have to deal with that down the line.  Imagine they'll restructure and defer some of that money on the back end of an extension, similar to what Brady and other QB's are doing. 

I think its crazy to make that kind of commitment to Joe Flacco. I haven't seen very much over the course of his career to suggest he is on the same level as brees, rogers, manning and brady. He played well in the play-offs..well decent. He was decent against the colts, had to thank denver for horrible pass coverage and faced one of the worst defenses in the league in the afc championship game. He was a victim of circumstance and these circumstances made him look a lot better than he actually is. That Raven defense is changing and won't be as good next year and beyond. Is Flacco really good enough to be the focus of that team? Can he put them on his shoulders while they rebuild that defense and still compete for championships? I don't think so. Maybe I am putting him down too much, I just don't see how he suddenly goes from possibly not even being a raven anymore to the highest paid player in the NFL. I don't think he's worth it and honestly feel there are a lot better qbs in this league than Joe Flacco.

Seahawks apparently are giving a 2013 first round pick and some other picks for Percy Harvin. On top of that, rumor has it his contract will be in the 10million/year range.

I like Harvin, but I can't understand how a team can give up that much and than pay him that much. That is crazy.

I'm always looking at these free agency deals or big trades and thanking Belichick for never doing crazy shit like that.

Seeking salary-cap relief, the Baltimore Ravens desperately wanted Anquan Boldin to accept a $2 million reduction in pay for the 2013 season. A man of principle, Boldin stuck to his guns about playing under the contract he originally signed.

With both sides at a standstill, Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome came up with a solution that could strengthen a fierce competitor while leaving his team worse off in the long run. NFL.com's Albert Breer reported Monday, citing a Ravens source, that Boldin will be traded to the San Francisco 49ers for a 2013 sixth-round draft pick. A 49ers source told Breer that the deal is done.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000149401/article/anquan-boldin-to-be-traded-to-san-francisco-49ers (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000149401/article/anquan-boldin-to-be-traded-to-san-francisco-49ers)

Big coup for the 9ers.  Boldin for a 6th rounder?  That's crazy!  Free agent madness kicks off tomorrow, so things might get even crazier.

It looks like the Bucs are favorites to land Revis Island.
btw, I'm glad my Vikes didn't land Mike Wallace.  The Dolphins can have him.

Good moves for Harvin and Boldin. The Ravens have been literally raped of talent to my happiness lol. I have mixed emotions about Tony Gonzalez returing to the Falcons after he fizzled away last season. I wish they would've gone after a better tight end in the draft or free agency.

Welker to Broncos.  2 yrs $12M.

Shocking!  At least the terms of the deal.  I was figuring he'd get 7-9 mil a year, and at least 3 or 4 years.  2 for 12?  Say what?  And the fact the Patriots were only willing to offer 2 for 10?  Huh? 

Listen, I can completely get behind them wanting to go in a different direction.  Hell, they were ready to do that last year until Aaron Hernandez got injured in their home opener.  Welker was non-existent in the first 2 games last season as they were beginning to phase him out of the offense.  But injuries forced him to the forefront again and he was the primary target BY FAR.  And I am completely willing for them to dedicate money to the defensive side of the ball for once even if it means taking a few steps back on offense.  BUT, 2 years and 12 million dollars?  Was that really going to prevent them from shoring up the defense?  Seems hard to believe.  So again, it would seem to me they were just ready to move on without him.  But why have Bob Kraft come out and say how much he loves the guy and how he'd love him to retire as a Patriot like Brady and then give him an embarrassingly lowball offer?  Doesn't seem like good business to me.  Although the business world isn't a friendly place.  And the Patriots have proven that once again.

It seems as if Danny Amendola is high on their list to replace Welker.  He's a younger, cheaper, albeit more injury prone version of Welker.  I'd find it hard to believe he'll replace the production Wes gave them.  That'd be asking a lot.  They could re-sign Edelman too and before today it sounded like they were going to part ways with Brandon Lloyd.  Not sure if that changes now that Welker has left.  In a sense though, I'd have to think they knew losing Welker was a strong possibility, so if they had planned on letting Lloyd go too, I'd assume they'll stick to that plan.  I'll freely admit that Lloyd wasn't quite what I expected him to be.  But he still caught over 70 balls for over 900 yards.  Nothing to sneeze at really.  And it doesn't seem their way of doing business to go and throw money at a WR such as Greg Jennings.  Of course an offense with Gronkowski, Hernandez, Ridley, and maybe Edelman and Amendola will still be formidable.  BUT, they need to improve defensively.  I've said that for the last 7 years at least, so hopefully they're finally ready to go in that direction.  We'll see.

Edit - Looks like the Pats have signed Amendola to a 5 year 31 million dollar deal with 10 mil guaranteed.

Seems like kinda a series of puzzling moves to me by the Pats.

This is apparently what happened with Welker, Amendola and the New England Patriots: http://espn.go.com/boston/nfl/story/_/id/9050742/2013-nfl-free-agency-new-england-patriots-quickly-shifted-wes-welker-danny-amendola


How Wes Welker, Patriots parted
When team sensed stalemate, it quickly moved on to Danny Amendola

By Mike Reiss | ESPNBoston.com

The stunning events that led to receiver Wes Welker signing with the Denver Broncos on Wednesday, and the New England Patriots filling the void with Danny Amendola, came down quickly behind the scenes, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.

The breaking point came Tuesday in the mid-afternoon before the official start of free agency, when the Patriots and Welker's representatives halted contract talks. The team's offer, a two-year, $10 million pact with incentives that could have pushed it as high as $16 million but in the eyes of Welker would be extremely difficult to reach, wasn't accepted.

At that point, Welker and his representatives intensified their pursuit of other offers, and it helped that some groundwork had previously been laid with the Broncos. Likewise, the Patriots turned their attention to Amendola, who was their top choice if things didn't work out with Welker (and in the eyes of some on the other side of the negotiating table their top choice all along).

Things came together quickly with the Patriots and Amendola on a five-year, $31 million deal with $10 million guaranteed, and at that point, there was no looking back for the team. While the Patriots would have been pleased if Welker accepted their proposal -- owner Robert Kraft said Monday that he hoped Welker would retire as a Patriot -- the possibility of losing him and Amendola was deemed too risky, so they moved close to locking in the deal with Amendola not long after free agency began Tuesday.

After almost a year of on-and-off talks, had the Patriots felt they were closer to a possible agreement with Welker, perhaps they wouldn't have pushed so hard for Amendola at that point. But it was a stalemate that the club felt showed no signs of resolving itself -- the Patriots ready to move on, and Welker slowly but not completely becoming more comfortable envisioning himself catching passes from Peyton Manning instead of Tom Brady.

This is how it often works in free agency, with timing of the essence. Patriots coach Bill Belichick regularly says that he makes decisions in the best interests of the team, and in the 27-year-old Amendola he saw a quick, sure-handed target who was five years younger than Welker and committing to a lengthy five-year term. If it couldn't be assured that Welker would be back at a contract the team was comfortable with, the Patriots were willing to move on at that point with a player whom offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels had worked with in St. Louis in 2011.

Yet even after Welker received a two-year, $12 million offer from the Broncos on Wednesday, a call was made to the Patriots to see if the club would sweeten its offer. The Patriots did not have an immediate response, which led some in Welker's camp to believe a better offer was a possibility in part to keep him away from the Broncos, one of their top competitors in the AFC. Ultimately, the club informed Welker and his representatives that they had entered into another commitment, which Welker's camp assumed all along was Amendola.

So Welker called the Broncos -- who, according to a source, were initially concerned about insulting Welker with their offer because they already had made other financial commitments -- and told them he was on board. While not the offer he was hoping for at the start of free agency, it was easier for Welker to accept it from a team other than one that he'd produced at such a high level for over the past six seasons, the source said.

The initial response that Welker received from Manning, executive vice president of football operations John Elway and others in the organization has been "a great feeling" and given him greater comfort in making the move.

"Elway told him that he wants him to be himself and have fun doing it," the source said.

Welker, who agreed to the deal without visiting Broncos headquarters, is scheduled to travel to Denver on Thursday morning. He had interest from another AFC team offering two years and closer to $15 million, which was the top contract proposal Welker received in a market that didn't unfold the way he and his representatives envisioned, but he didn't pursue it because the club isn't viewed as a contender. The Broncos, who visit the Patriots in 2013, are one of the AFC's top contenders, which was important to Welker.

The turn of events was stunning when considering that the Patriots and Welker had been close on a three-year contract last summer. The gap was about $1 million at that time, according to one source, but neither side would budge.

Since that time, sources from both sides indicated that finding common ground was a challenge. On one side was the feeling that Welker's camp would only accept a three-year term at an average of $8 million per season. On the other side was a belief that the Patriots had basically made one offer and in recent weeks weren't willing to tweak the incentives to try to make them more reasonable to reach.

As for how Welker's departure has been received by quarterback Tom Brady, who last month restructured his contract in order to provide more salary cap flexibility to help the Patriots build a better team, a source who had direct contact with Brady said he is "bummed out." Welker hasn't just been Brady's go-to receiver, he's also one of his closest friends.

But Brady has been through this before, going back to 2003 when safety Lawyer Milloy, one of his closest friends on the team, stunningly was released about a week before the season opener. In 2006, Brady was stung by receiver Deion Branch being traded to the Seattle Seahawks. Brady has said in recent years that if he could make the personnel decisions, all of his friends would remain on the team.

But that's just not the way it works in New England, where Belichick has never been afraid of making an unpopular move, and his relative success in doing so -- and the franchise's consistent winning ways -- has earned him leeway with a passionate fan base that often refers to the motto "In Bill We Trust."

Yet moving away from the 31-year-old Welker, especially considering the surprisingly low financial terms, could put that to the test. Welker, whom Brady referred to as the "heart and soul" of the team in 2012, was one of the franchise's most beloved players.

So this qualifies as one of the riskier moves of Belichick's 13-year tenure, as he replaces a known commodity who was the epitome of reliable and durable with Amendola, a talented player with more long-term upside who has been limited to 12 games over the past two seasons because of injuries.

When it comes to X's and O's, part of Belichick's confidence in taking such a risk is the history of production with slot receivers in the team's offense. Before Welker, fan favorite Troy Brown also put up big numbers in the slot. It's no disrespect to Brown and Welker, two talented players, but Belichick has noted that part of the function of New England's offense sets that position up for big production.

Welker proved that, as no NFL receiver caught more passes over the past six seasons. Now he'll be catching them in Denver, a surprising turn of events that came down quickly with the door closing even as he gave the team one final chance to sweeten its offer.

By that point, the Patriots had moved on to Amendola, a decision that sent shockwaves throughout the region.



I'm upset that the Patriots couldn't go a little higher and get Welker and I am really disappointed he his no longer a Patriot. He will be difficult to replace. As Brady has said Welker is the heart and soul of the patriots. He was a great worker, leader and performer. I'm really disappointed he's no longer a patriot. More disappointed than when Lawyer Milloy was let go and that was pretty hard. I guess the only thing left to do is say good bye the simple cold way the WWE does, "I wish Wes Welker the best in all his future endeavors." But I actually mean it.

Very good Grantland article that argues Pats did the right thing on Welker/Amendola: 

http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/9051254/bill-barnwell-second-day-nfl-free-agency

Lots of good points there.  I'm not one of those people who thinks that Tom Brady made Wes Welker what he is.  BUT, he certainly wasn't the same player prior to coming to New England.  So who's to say that Amendola can't come close to matching his production.  The guy had 85 catches with Sam Bradford as his QB 2 years ago and was on pace to top that last season.  So you'd think he could catch 90+ balls from Brady with relative ease.  Remains to be seen obviously.  Tom has had trouble incorporating certain receivers into the offense the last few years, but the potential is certainly there.

And that's a great point about the timing of the injuries.  Both players had season ending injuries, just Amendola's happened in week 1 and Welker's in week 17.  Again, we'll see.  Amendola could end up getting hurt early on and that "injury prone" label won't shake. 

Overall, it's clear the Patriots wanted to go in a different direction.  It's pretty clear that they were not pleased with Wes last summer.  They franchised him with the intention of signing him to a long term deal and supposedly offered him a fair market deal (FAR MORE than he got from Denver, I think it was 3 years 24 million).  But Wes decided not to sign and instead took 9.5 million to play last season, which the Pats were not thrilled by.  Apparently they couldn't get over that.  So they went with a younger WR who they think has potential similar to what Welker displayed 6 years ago.

Welker has also had a case of the drops the last few seasons.  I hate to kick the guy on his way out, but it's true.  And it's not just the drop in the Super Bowl against the Giants or the drop in the AFC Championship game last year against the Ravens.  He led the league in drops last season, and overall the last 3 seasons.  Now granted, I'm sure he also leads the league in targets over that same time period so the more balls thrown your way the more chances there are you're going to drop a few.  It just seems that he's dropped some very catchable balls recently and it's becoming more frequent.  Again, not to diminish what he accomplished.  He more than made up for it with his 110+ catches a year, his ability to bounce back after big hits, and the many big catches he DID make.  But the guy was so good, that made every drop so much more frustrating.

The Pats signed Leon Washington today, which should help their return game that was pretty poor last season.  I'm still waiting for them to make some moves on defense.  I'll be REAL upset if they don't upgrade there.  I'm not torn up with losing Welker, but if they end up losing Talib and not signing a solid DB or 2, then I'll be  :rant:

I think Denver's offense with be even more potent now with Wes Welker. Great move by the Bronco's and another weapon for Peyton. :)

It's definitely a huge loss for New England. Wes Welker deserved to be treated much better than the way he was by the Patriots.

It's a cold business, the NFL.  And the Patriots do business a certain way, and most people don't view their way of doing things in a positive light.  But all teams do things a certain way.  The Ravens had to unload Boldin for a 6th round pick.  They let Ellerbe and Kruger walk, and Ed Reed may soon follow.  You can't pay everyone top dollar, especially when you have a QB that's making top dollar.  You have to manage the rest of your roster carefully as far as where and how you spend money. 

And to be clear, Welker was looking for a lot more money from the Pats.  I believe it was 3/24.  He thought that was his market value, the Patriots (correctly) disagreed.  So since the 2 sides were so far apart, the Pats moved on and struck a deal with Amendola.  When Welker found out that his market wasn't as fruitful as he thought, he settled on the 2/12 from Denver.  At that point the Pats already had a deal in place with Amendola, so they had in effect, already moved on.

It's a great deal for the Broncos, no doubt.  But it's not like Welker went to the Pats and asked for 2/12.  That's just not the case.  I'm sure they would've been willing to do that, but 3/24, after paying him 9.5 the previous year wasn't appealing to them.  And by all accounts, it wasn't appealing to any other team in the NFL either.  If you look at the teams that have made these blockbuster deals so far, it's teams that don't have large $'s devoted to the QB position.  It's the price you pay.  If you have a REALLY good QB, that covers a lot of deficiencies, but it prevents you from spending wildly in other areas.  That's why the Patriots, Packers, Broncos, Saints, Ravens, Steelers, Giants, etc. aren't and don't go nuts in free agency.  And the Patriots considered paying Welker 8 million a year a little much since he ended up getting 6.  The price of doing business.

Reggie Bush is a nice acquisition for the Lions.

I don't have any insight as to what really happened behind the scenes or how much Wes was asking for from the Patriots. I know it's a business and both sides are working their angles. I guess as a fan of both, I hated to see Wes leave the Patriots. If he did have to leave, I'm happy he signed with the Broncos and will be in Peyton's offense instead of some team like the Bears, Lions, etc.

Hopefully, Danny Amendola will be a nice asset for the offense and Rob Gronkowski will be back to 100% and racking up the catches, yards, and touchdowns this coming season.

Right, obviously there's 2 sides to every story and the Welker camp is claiming the Patriots one and ONLY offer was the 2/10 and that they gave them the opportunity to match the 2/12 offered by Denver.  So it's a matter of who you want to believe.  I'm sure neither side is telling the whole truth, they all lie.  The Patriots have a way of doing business and they barely stray from that.  Most of the time it works out for them, although you could argue it hasn't worked as well in recent years since they haven't won a Super Bowl in almost a decade.  And obviously since they have one of the best QB/coach combos in the league that can cover a lot of bad decisions they may have made over the years.

We'll see.  They've had this Madden-like offense since 2007 and while they've come close, they haven't won it all in that time.  The simple fact remains, they need to improve the defense.  All the record setting offensive numbers mean nothing if you can't stop the other team from scoring.  Especially when that record setting offense is slowed down by the better defenses in the playoffs.  Ask the Colts how well that method worked.  All those 13 win seasons led them to one Super Bowl.  The Patriots have turned into that, what Patriot fans used to make fun of the Colts for and what separated the Patriots from them.

Well said, you can't win Super Bowls with a good offense and a bad defense. It will be interesting if the Colt winning trend with only one Super Bowl win will follow Peyton to the Broncos.

The Patriots are the colts of Manning's prime because of poor personnel decisions on the defensive side rather that's through the draft or through free agency. They have simply done a poor job drafting, especially in the defensive back field. While they have become the colts of yesteryear it was not by choice. The Colts specifically built a defense to protect leads and spent the majority of the money on offense. The Patriots didn't spend high draft picks on their offensive weapons or an excessive amount of cash. Nor did they attempt to build a defense with top rushers and speed linebackers like the colts. They have just failed, quite spectacularly of replacing the talent pool uin New England of quality defensive players. One could also argue the change in rules have adversely effected the style of defense Belichick coaches though that's an entirely different discussion.

I guess I'm just saying I don't like the comparison of the Patriots to Manning's colts because they didn't intentionally build their team in the same manner.

True, but the Patriots obviously shifted with the times and the rules to become more offensive oriented.  After that 2006 season when Brady was throwing to Reche Caldwell and Doug Gabriel, they decided to go all in and reinvent the offense around Tom.  They let Asante Samuel walk, which I agreed with.  But they haven't been able to replace him.  Nor have they been able to replace guys like Bruschi, McGinest, Harrison, Seymour, etc.  Like you said, due to poor personnel decisions through free agency and the draft.  It makes you wonder how great Belichick and the football minds under him really are.  Or is Tom Brady just that great that he allows you to be a competitor every year despite a suspect defense?  Of course, the year he got hurt and Matt Cassel led them to an 11-5 record shows pretty favorable on Belichick's resume.

Ed Reed to the Houston Texans for 3 years/$15 million.

Really? What a waste of money! He's not that good.

They saw an opportunity to add weapons cheaply. They got Moss and Welker with a 4th round and a 2nd round pick(and 7th) after having the worst receiving corp they ever had. They didn't commit huge resources to either player. They signed moss after 2007 to a decent 3 year deal but not astronomical. Nor did they commit huge resources to other Brady weapons. Did they shift the offense to be more Brady based? Absolutely but they didn't neglect the defense. They just didn't hit. So its tough to say that they changed their entire philosophy to project offensive football when they didn't spend a huge amount of resources on the offensive side while not spending resources defensively. In fact I could argue they continued to spend on defense yet just failed to capitalize. The same year they acquired Moss and Welker with modest investment they invested heavily in a free agent deal with Adalius Thomas that did not work out. They followed that by continuing to draft on the defensive side of the ball and not being very successful at it.

With Regards to 2008. I think the Patriots benefited from having the majority of the team back from a 18-1 season and a group of veterans to step up and not allow themselves to be a complete failure because one player goes down. They also benefited from facing a rather easy schedule. If you look at the previous season they finished with 7 less wins and 4 more losses to finish 11-5 vs. 18-1. The Colts without manning went from 10-7 to 2-14. 8 less wins and 7 more losses. Not a huge disparity.

James Harrison has signed a 2-year deal with the Bengals.

Darrelle Revis has signed a 6-year $96 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers while the Jets will receive a 2013 first-round pick and a 2014 conditional pick.

I don't know wtf the Jets are thinking trading the best corner in the league away for picks.

3 reasons:

1) They want to rebuild, and to do that they need picks.  Having the best corner in the league, when you SUCK at just about every other facet of the game, doesn't help you much.

2) They were not going to be able to re-sign him (assuming he's healthy...more on that in a sec) when his contract came up.  The cap (with Tebow and Sanchez both getting a sizeable chunk of cap countable money) just wouldn't let them, given some of the bone headed moves they've made in the front office.

3) He's coming back from a pretty serious complete tear of the ACL. Not everyone is Adrian Peterson.  They have no clue how effective he's going to be going forward.  Best case was he's back to normal...and they get him for one more year.  A year they are likely going to be one of the worst teams in the league.  Worst case is he is a shell of his former self and they pay him for being terrible.  Neither option is more valuable than picks to them, since they need massive amounts of help to get better.

Now...are those good reasons? IMHO, No.  It's another terrible Jets move in a long line of (and maybe precipitated from) bad personell moves.  But that's why they're doing it.

The problem is: Not one person in that organization, from the Owner down to the coaches, seems to have a clue how to run that organization.  Woody seems to fancy himself another Jerry Jones.  He's not (and that doesn't even get into the fact that, IMHO, much of the Cowboys issues stem from the fact they have an owner like jones...but that's another conversation).  Their new GM, Idzik, is completely unproven at any facet of actually running a pro organization (which...see above...is probably why he got the job).  And Rex...well, do we really have to talk about Rex's failings?

If you're a Jets fan...it's probably going to be a LONG season.

Thankfully, I'm not. :)

A few years back it looked like the Jets had something good going. It almost looked like they were ready to challenge the Patriots for AFC East supremacy, if not overtake them. They've gone a long way since then, in the wrong direction. Puzzling how a team can get so good in a short period of time and then revert to form in the blink of an eye. They have an opportunity to make this deal work, IF they can nail the draft picks. That could assist them greatly in rebuilding. But if they miss, which they often do, it will prove to be a horrible trade for them. Things aren't looking to promising, that's for sure.

Agree.

If their new GM, or their owner (since he seems to be making many of the personell calls...witness Tebow), seemed to have a single clue, I would have a lot more confidence in things turning out OK for them.

But...given who is calling the shots..I have zero.   They're hurting at about 6 or 7 different positions (pass rusher, quarterback, receiver, running back, tight end...and now a corner).  One first round pick and a conditional 3rd or 4th next year isn't going to help them all that much.  Not to mention that one of the places they need help at (quarterback) has become a cap hole (where money just can't escape from).  To be paying what they are to 2 QBs..and yet not have a decent starting QB pegged for opening day..is nuts.

They're a mess.  And not likely to NOT be a mess for quite awhile.

GO Giants!

The thing that irks me is the deal he got from Tampa is same deal he likely would've taken from the Jets.

And for that you have to look no further then the front office really. I think i could do a better job.

The Revis deal apparently has no guaranteed money. My prediction: Revis isn't quite the same after coming back from the ACL and doesn't see a 2nd season of that $96 million deal.

Wouldn't be surprised if he doesn't even play until November or December.