The 2006/2007 NFL Discussion Thread

[Gyarados]

Look at the weather though! The weather!

Nah, Green Bay is a good spoiler team, foreal that team is better then their record. Both are actually.

[chubby]

Lets talk about some FOOTBALL!!!

SUPER BOWL XLI!!! :yell

Colts vs. Bears

6 p.m. EST this Sunday (2/4/2007) on CBS

Its being played at Dolphins Stadium (seats 70,000), Bears are the "home" team.

....

And who jacked my thread?!?! :mad :mad :mad

[TDM]

Ugh, it'll be a miracle if my team makes it to where it did last year.

Really, I have nothing for speculation other than the really bad teams which are always easy to...speculate on. I was suprised by the Dallas victory though.

[JediJaina]

I posted an NFL thread a few days ago, but it was ignored.

http://forums.narutofan.com/showthread.php?t=123692

[Black Swan]

I am going to watch the upcoming nfl season but i dont think i will enjoy it like years past. My jets seem like they will have another bad season, i will support them, but my expectations are low. Pennington arm is a mystery, martin might not have any cartledge in his knee, and our defense is mediocore.

[elektroniks]

REDSKINS!!!!!:nuts
Looks like we'll have a good year and i definately think they'll go far

[LayZ]

The Panthers have a loaded roster this year according to ESPN. I live in Charlotte so of course everyone around here is talking Super Bowl. All I know is that its pre-season so everyone has a chance right now. I'm not going to start predicting SuperBowl until the playoffs.

[TDM]

REDSKINS!!!!!:nuts
Looks like we'll have a good year and i definately think they'll go far
We got clobbered by the Bengals. Fortunately, that's not as shameful as it was a few years ago.

[sagesse_reine]

I am going to watch the upcoming nfl season but i dont think i will enjoy it like years past. My jets seem like they will have another bad season, i will support them, but my expectations are low. Pennington arm is a mystery, martin might not have any cartledge in his knee, and our defense is mediocore.

Ha the Jets, how about the team I've supported since I've watched NFL? The Ravens. I don't know how they'll fair this season. I hope well. *crosses fingers*

[elektroniks]

We got clobbered by the Bengals. Fortunately, that's not as shameful as it was a few years ago.

STAY POSITIVE YOUNG ONE THE SEASON AINT START YET :thumbs

[Kakashi's_girl]

I like the Rams, Eagles, Sea Hawks, Broncs, and Saints. Did anybody hear the final score of the Saints against..darn it I forgot..it was like the starter of the NFL season. :D

[shadycheese]

tell me about it, baseball....omg....lol i'm tired of it and i've only tuned into one game!

but i watched a couple exhibition games and i can't wait! till pre-seasons over and the real fun begins!!

have you guys seen the new Arizona Cardinals stadium yet? it looks so cool w/ a retractable field....um can you say fun??

and i'm a steelers fan!! PITTSBURGHIAN! all the way and i must say our rookies are shaping up watch out for #10 because...we'll just say that he isn't the slowest one on the team

ah...football season!! beer commercials!! and soon the super bowl... can NOT wait!!

[chubby]

whoops, i totally forgot about this thread :sweatdrop

and i'm a steelers fan!! PITTSBURGHIAN! all the way and i must say our rookies are shaping up watch out for #10 because...we'll just say that he isn't the slowest one on the team
meh, its too early to judge how good a rookie is yet. they could still be a total letdown in the regular season

[TDM]

STAY POSITIVE YOUNG ONE THE SEASON AINT START YET :thumbs
And then we got clobbered by the Jets.

Yeah, I know, it's just the preseason. :P

[chubby]

and we beat the Cardinals....oh yea :kool

[elektroniks]

And then we got clobbered by the Jets.

Yeah, I know, it's just the preseason. :P

Yeah you're making it hard to stay positive.

[JediJaina]

NFL network has been turned on constantly in this household since preseason began. My team is the Bucs and I wish that Jon Gruden would move up Gradkowski as a backup to Simms. The throws that guy is making are phenomenal. They lost to the Dolphins last night, but a lot of the starters were benched so it's hard to judge.

[Gyarados]

Pats are going all the way this year.

[JediJaina]

Although I'm a Bucs fan, I think the way the Dolphins are playing are going to surprise a lot of people. Culpepper looks to be in top form. Could be competition for the Pats.

[Gyarados]

I'm not taking anything away from the Dolphins, but no I don't think Miami will even come within 3 games of New England come season's end. I think Miami will win 8-10 games (9 is my prediction) while New England wins 11-13 games (I predict 13).

[JediJaina]

I get to see the preseason games on NFL network so I'm not just saying this for no reason. The only weakness for them is special teams. If they get the kinks out, then I think they'll give the Pats a run for their money.

Oh and I would like to thank the Jacksonville Jaguars for keeping their starters in for a long time in the Bucs/Jags game. The fact that they had to do that to score against the Bucs second teamers while the first team held them scoreless in the first half proves they care too much about winning the (preseason) game than resting their starters.

[Gyarados]

Bucs are a good team, considering the Panthers are full of roid users and I think the Falcons are overrated, the Bucs are my pick to win the NFC South. Probably looking at a 10-6 or 11-5 record though.

[Dragen]

AFC: Patriots, Indy, Denver, Pittsburg
Wildcard: Baltimore and Jacksonvile

NFC: Giants, Panthers, Seattle, Chicago
Wildcard: Tampa Bay and Washington

SuperBowl: Indy VS. Panthers (27-33)

Supperbowl Winner: Panthers

This is how i think things are going to end up by the end of the year.

Honorable Mention SD, Dallas, Miami and KC all will just barely miss the playoffs.

[Gyarados]

I doubt the Panthers will make it that far. Plus their players are all roid addicts, well 7 of them anyway. They used roids and still lost to the Pats a couple years ago.

Baltimore I think may get as good as 10-6 at very best but them making the playoffs in a very tough AFC is doubtful I think.

[Dragen]

Pats are going all the way this year.

I am a Patriots fan but i dont see them going to the superbowl as much as i would like them to. they will (i hope) win the division by 2 games over the Dolphins who will also be quite good. But our defense is the weakest i can remember it being in the last few years and no seems to be able to stay healthy.

[Kira Yamato]

I wish I could say that Miami will turn some heads this year but since Si picked them to go to the super bowl, so I can't really say that. I do believe they will make it into the playoffs and win the division (and lose in the first round)

It really all depends on such factors as injuries. The Dolphins are thin in some area (secondary, running back), but barring any siginificant injuries, I don't see New England winning the divison. Last year was just the beggining of their down slide. New England has a good system but as even some of the players on the team admit, "you need good players to play in a good system for it to work" and NE has been losing too many players to stay at their level. While the Dolphins have done nothing but upgrade their positions at QB and improved their Defense.
And with players coming into the second year of the "Saban" system their will be an even higher level of play coming from them (froma team that managed to be the highest 4th Quarter scoring team in the NFL last year, and that was with Ferrot at the helm)

Barring any key injuries to Miami, NE will not win the AFC East.
Miami's has a much easier path "schedule-wise" and I'll probably assume they'll split their series (1-1) like last year.

[Vince Johnson]

yes the jets will win the afc east

[chubby]

yes the jets will win the afc east
you're kidding, right? :huh

@Kira: I think the Pats have more of a shot at winning the division than people are currently giving them credit for

[Kira Yamato]

@Kira: I think the Pats have more of a shot at winning the division than people are currently giving them credit for

Conventional wisdom would say the Pats have a shot, and I don't rule them out completely. I'm not saying they'll be a bottomfeeder team by any means and could possibly get a 11-12 win season, but I'm giving my dolphins team some credit as well, they have the pieces in place, and even last year could have possibly swept the Pats (sans Ferrot losing his mind and throwing two consecutive fade routes in the edn zone to end the game)


I literally threw a party when they lost to Denver last year in the divisonal round :oh

[chubby]

Conventional wisdom would say the Pats have a shot, and I don't rule them out completely. I'm not saying they'll be a bottomfeeder team by any means and could possibly get a 11-12 win season, but I'm giving my dolphins team some credit as well, they have the pieces in place, and even last year could have possibly swept the Pats (sans Ferrot losing his mind and throwing two consecutive fade routes in the edn zone to end the game)
yea, I agree that the division will be much tougher than usual, it could go either way

I literally threw a party when they lost to Denver last year in the divisonal round :oh
don't remind me.....I had to work that night, and customers just kept on coming in, which made it even worse (usually there are very few customers during a playoff game, Red Sox or Patriots) :mad :mad :mad

[Gyarados]

Dolphins ain't in the Pats league. Yes they probably will split the season series but still New England is too great. Bill Belicheck is a genius and will, WILL find a way to get the team back to 12-4 or so.

[Kira Yamato]

yea, I agree that the division will be much tougher than usual, it could go either way


It will be a tight race, and even though Dolphins have an easier schedule, I'm still kinda uneasy about the games they are predicted to win and lose.


I expect them to lose to Pittsburgh (Road game), New England (Road game), Indy (Road game), and Kansas City (Road game), A loss to Buffalo wouldn't surprise me, IMO, so I can see an 11-5 record for them v_v

Best case scenario is 12-4, worst case is probably 9-7

I can see New England losing to Cincinatti (Road), Denver (Home), Jacksonville (Road--Upset), Miami (Road) and possibly Minnesota (Road--another Upset)

New England could have a record from 9-7 to 14-2 in my opinion, depending on how the chips fall, but I'm going with the best case scenario for the dolphins, and I feel that scenario will happen this year.


don't remind me.....I had to work that night, and customers just kept on coming in, which made it even worse (usually there are very few customers during a playoff game, Red Sox or Patriots) :mad :mad :mad

I'm assuming you live in Boston? O_O

[Kira Yamato]

Dolphins ain't in the Pats league. Yes they probably will split the season series but still New England is too great. Bill Belicheck is a genius and will, WILL find a way to get the team back to 12-4 or so.


Not with their current players. They showed signs of that during the Denver game...plus there defense was getting shredded the second half of the season. How you finish is just as important as how you start and they didn't end on a good note.

*reminds me how the Pistons was wayy above the Heat last year as well* >_>

[Gyarados]

If NE faces Indy again though in the playoffs then I must say Indy will stumble and fall. I don't know if Miami can beat Indy though. Honestly. Miami could probably beat all teams in the NFC (I'll say NE just because they been rivals for years now) but Miami I feel very uncertain about being able to beat Cincinnati, San Diego, Indy. Any other team in the NFC I think Miami is capable of beating.

[Potentialflip]

The Patriots will need help. Them going 12-4 is going to be a little difficult to muster. They have 3 out of 5 good teams right off the bat before their bye week (Miami, Denver, Cincinnati) and end the season with 3 tough road games (Miami, Jacksonville, Tennessee; could be a good team by the end of the year). Don't forget to add in the Colts. I say for now the division is up in the air. They have as much question marks surrounding them as the Miami Dolphins. I give the Patriots no more than 10 wins this season.

As for the NFC. Panthers are somewhat the obvious choice. When healthy this team is the obvious choice. They added depth at wideout left by Muhammed with Keyshawn Johnson whose game is similar to Muhammed. They went out and drafted a Running Back hopefully as insurance for DeShaun Foster, DeAngelo Williams who can also be a threat in Special Teams. Their defense if not the best in their division. Is very good able to stop the run as well as pass rush. I can't really see anything that would make me pick against them.

Thus I pick them to win the Super Bowl as well.

As for the AFC representative. I think its time to give it to the Colts. I honestly do. It will only be a matter of time till they get it done and I believe this year they will push through. Edge is a huge loss. There is no question about it. But what did they lose really? All those rushing yards? I believe Addai and Rhodes can very well get those yards. Question would be the pass protection which looking at preseason they have both done adaquetely well.

Ever since the new format has been laid out one thing has remain constant. Teams that went to the playoffs the year before misses out the year following. Here is my picks of who will miss the playoffs.
- Jacksonville (I picked Miami to go)
- Denver (Very tough division. I am positive Cutler will start sometime this season).
- Chicago (I have the Vikings)
- Washington (Look for Portis' shoulder injury to nag him throughout the year)
- Seattle (I doubt this because of their division but history says loser in Super Bowl doesn't go to Playoffs the following year).

[Kira Yamato]

If NE faces Indy again though in the playoffs then I must say Indy will stumble and fall. I don't know if Miami can beat Indy though. Honestly. Miami could probably beat all teams in the NFC (I'll say NE just because they been rivals for years now) but Miami I feel very uncertain about being able to beat Cincinnati, San Diego, Indy. Any other team in the NFC I think Miami is capable of beating.


If you're talking about playoffs, I already predicted that Miami would probably lose in the first round O_o (Miami, for some weird reason has Indy's number...at least if you look at there last few years they've played one another) and I don't see Indy being all that better than they were last year, especially since a integral part of their offense is now gone (Edgerrin), I don't trust their O-Line when Payton faces Blitz's, because Pittsburgh showed the world how vulnerable the colts are, when there being one dimensional. And why they decided to go away from the run still puzzles, me because James was having his way with Pittsburgh, but the passing game was floundering.

But head to head Miami can take on NE, even last year they could have won both games (the problem *QB* has now been extracted).

But I can't see NE getting past Cincy or Denver in the playoffs, imo. Denver exposed them in last year's playoffs, and Denver seems better off this year then last year.
Perhaps NE can beat Indy, without James, but NE just has too many hurdles.

[chubby]

It will be a tight race, and even though Dolphins have an easier schedule, I'm still kinda uneasy about the games they are predicted to win and lose.


I expect them to lose to Pittsburgh (Road game), New England (Road game), Indy (Road game), and Kansas City (Road game), A loss to Buffalo wouldn't surprise me, IMO, so I can see an 11-5 record for them v_v

Best case scenario is 12-4, worst case is probably 9-7

I can see New England losing to Cincinatti (Road), Denver (Home), Jacksonville (Road--Upset), Miami (Road) and possibly Minnesota (Road--another Upset)

New England could have a record from 9-7 to 14-2 in my opinion, depending on how the chips fall, but I'm going with the best case scenario for the dolphins, and I feel that scenario will happen this year.
wow, you think the Pats can go 14-2? I see them going 13-3 at best, but even that seems like a stretch

I'm assuming you live in Boston? O_O
no, I just felt like putting "Boston" under my location :notrust

XDDDDDDDD

[Kira Yamato]

wow, you think the Pats can go 14-2? I see them going 13-3 at best, but even that seems like a stretch



14-2 is a tough stretch, but their schedule isn't as difficult as I originally thought it would be. And it's assuming they somehow beat Miami twice :S

But realistically, I can see them winning 10-11 games.


no, I just felt like putting "Boston" under my location :notrust

XDDDDDDDD

I've seen some people put their town of birth but not where they currently live and vice-versa, so it's a possibility xDD

[chubby]

14-2 is a tough stretch, but their schedule isn't as difficult as I originally thought it would be. And it's assuming they somehow beat Miami twice :S

But realistically, I can see them winning 10-11 games.
yea, I see them going 11-5 and winning their wildcard game

I've seen some people put their town of birth but not where they currently live and vice-versa, so it's a possibility xDD
Boston is both where I was born, and where I reside :noworry

[NaraShikamaru]

Im into NFL since watching Eyesheild 21. But i have to download clips since i dont think we get it in the UK

[chubby]

Im into NFL since watching Eyesheild 21. But i have to download clips since i dont think we get it in the UK
once the season starts, you can follow they games as they happen on www.espn.com, and you can keep track of stats and standings on www.nfl.com :nod (or you can do stats and standings on espn.com, they both work.....I just happen to think that nfl.com is easier to navigate)

[NaraShikamaru]

When you mean follow the games, actually watch them? Or do they just update with scores?

[Gyarados]

Getting back to Kira about Denver being too good for the Pats. I think Denver will miss the playoffs. I see them going about 9-7 and missing it altogether. I think San Diego has that division in the bag with an 11-5 or so record and Oakland will get better to maybe 8-8 (remember the Raiders were 5-0 in pre-season) and the Chiefs disappoint at 6-10.

But yeah I admit, San Diego would be capable of beating New England if they happen to ever face in the playoffs, but my money would still be on the Pats.

[Stealth Tomato]

Getting back to Kira about Denver being too good for the Pats. I think Denver will miss the playoffs. I see them going about 9-7 and missing it altogether. I think San Diego has that division in the bag with an 11-5 or so record and Oakland will get better to maybe 8-8 (remember the Raiders were 5-0 in pre-season) and the Chiefs disappoint at 6-10.

But yeah I admit, San Diego would be capable of beating New England if they happen to ever face in the playoffs, but my money would still be on the Pats.
San Diego. A lock for the playoffs. With a n00b quarterback.
You must be either (a) shitting me, or (b) a complete homer.

Oakland will be terrible as always. Guaranteed.
KC has Trent Green and Larry Johnson. No way they fall flat on their collective face.

New England's defense is shot (especially the pass D), and they have no real wide receivers. Dillon is old, slow, and about ready for a career-ending injury, and Maroney, while he is expected to do very well, is nevertheless an unproven rookie. Their time is over.

[Gyarados]

San Diego still has LT in the backfield who is the best running back in the game. A solid defense, Antonio Gates who is THE best WR in the game today. Plus 11-5 is possible you have to remember divisional games. I see San Diego beating Denver, Oakland, KC all at least once each, probably 2 against one of those 3 teams.

San Diego is underrated. While KC and Denver are overrated.

[Potentialflip]

San Diego still has LT in the backfield who is the best running back in the game. A solid defense, Antonio Gates who is THE best WR in the game today. Plus 11-5 is possible you have to remember divisional games. I see San Diego beating Denver, Oakland, KC all at least once each, probably 2 against one of those 3 teams.

San Diego is underrated. While KC and Denver are overrated.

San Diego is not underrated. They have an unproven Quarterback. A questionable pass defense. Their only plus is that they have somewhat of a flexible schedule. The AFC West is a tough division to win out.

[chubby]

When you mean follow the games, actually watch them? Or do they just update with scores?
they show you a picture of a little field, and then there are words that tell you whats going on. like "20 yard pass from Jake Plummer to Rod Smith" and then a little line appears that shows how far the pass was on the field. so no, you don't actually watch them, but its a fun little gimmick. I usually use it when I'm doing homework on the computer, and I just check in from time-to-time to see whats happening.

I was wondering when Vash would get here :amuse

[BW879]

I'm really hopeing the Jets do well this year but I won't be surprised if we see Pats and some other team in the Super Bowl agian...

[Potentialflip]

I'm really hopeing the Jets do well this year but I won't be surprised if we see Pats and some other team in the Super Bowl agian...

Jets are pretty interesting this year with a Running Back that won't be Curtis Martin. They have someone to possibly protect Penningtons backside. Pass D is still up in the air again. They lost their best DB (Ty Law) from last season and best pass rusher (John Abraham). So it will be interesting how the Jets do. The Patriots just need to do what they did the first time they won it with Belichek. Surprise the world. Cause that is the only way I see them in the Super Bowl quite honestly.

[BW879]

Jets are pretty interesting this year with a Running Back that won't be Curtis Martin. They have someone to possibly protect Penningtons backside. Pass D is still up in the air again. They lost their best DB (Ty Law) from last season and best pass rusher (John Abraham). So it will be interesting how the Jets do. The Patriots just need to do what they did the first time they won it with Belichek. Surprise the world. Cause that is the only way I see them in the Super Bowl quite honestly.

Unfortunately, I haven't gotten around to seeing what the team looks like this year yet, so I have no idea what you're talking about >.<
I should get around to that tonight if I have the chance to...

[Vince Johnson]

the jets will be victorious against the newengland patriots and after the game, while everyone is heading to the loccer room, the jets players will gang tackle belichick. his face will be kicced numerous times. some patriots players will try to come to the rescue of their injured coach but to no avail because theyre a bunch of lil dweebs

[Potentialflip]

Unfortunately, I haven't gotten around to seeing what the team looks like this year yet, so I have no idea what you're talking about >.<
I should get around to that tonight if I have the chance to...

I just sort of technically told you how the team looks this year from last year.
- Curtis Martin is no longer the Running Back.
They traded for Kevan Barlow
- They have a new stud at Left Tackle to help Chad Pennington (he is the starting Quarterback once again).
Drafted D'Brickashaw Ferguson
- Their defense is in question.
Top Defensive Back last year (Ty Law) and Top Defensive End (John Abraham) are now in new teams respectively.

I'm pretty sure you know there is a new head coach as well.

[Dragen]

San Diego still has LT in the backfield who is the best running back in the game. A solid defense, Antonio Gates who is THE best WR in the game today. Plus 11-5 is possible you have to remember divisional games. I see San Diego beating Denver, Oakland, KC all at least once each, probably 2 against one of those 3 teams.

San Diego is underrated. While KC and Denver are overrated.

sorry to be the one to break this to you but Antonio Gates is not a WR he's a TE. And San Diego while good will not win the divison with Phillip Rivers as their QB atleast not this year. The Divison title is most likely going to go to Denver.

As for KC they will be fairly good but Larry Johnson is not going to have the monster year almost everyone seems to think that he is going to have. i think that the loss of Wille Rolf is going to effect his and the Chiefs ability to run the ball. Also they have no good WR Kennison is ok but thats pretty much it aside from the TE who is probrbly the second best in the league right now behind gates.

Oakland may have gone 5-0 in the Pre-Season but it was still the Pre-Season teams dont play their staters for a long time generally during the Pre-Season. So people shouldnt read to much into it. They will probebly end up with about 6 or 7 wins on the season.

As For Miami winning the AFC east that wont happen till next year most likely and someone keeps saying miami could have won both games last year well the Patriots could have won both games. I am not sure that they put forth there best effort to try and win the last game if they had Brady would have played the entire game and Doug Flutie would never have been aloud to try and do the drop kick.

[Stealth Tomato]

San Diego still has LT in the backfield who is the best running back in the game. A solid defense, Antonio Gates who is THE best WR in the game today. Plus 11-5 is possible you have to remember divisional games. I see San Diego beating Denver, Oakland, KC all at least once each, probably 2 against one of those 3 teams.

San Diego is underrated. While KC and Denver are overrated.
Antonio Gates is a TE, not a WR, which shows how much you really know about football. Also, there is a huge difference between a good TE catching passes from a great quarterback, and a good TE catching passes from an unproven rookie. Just ask the Steelers' tight ends between Eric Green and Heath Miller. Mediocre quarterbacks have trouble throwing to the tight end. The best tight ends in the league last year all had one thing in common: a great quarterback. Average quarterbacks have trouble making reads over the middle and therefore don't use their tight ends well.
Oakland will be a pushover as always, but even splitting with Denver would be quite an accomplishment. KC should be improved, too, with only one real offensive loss (Roaf) and some big additions to the secondary.

If you think LT is the best back in the NFL, just get out now. He put up huge fantasy numbers, but look at the stats that actually count. Shaun Alexander, Tiki Barber, and Larry Johnson all put up more than 5 yards per carry. LT? 4.3, barely above the league average for starting halfbacks. His receptions will go up because of dumpoffs from a greenhorn at quarterback, but dumpoffs don't exactly help the offense much.

GTFO my internet, homer.

[Stealth Tomato]

Jets are pretty interesting this year with a Running Back that won't be Curtis Martin. They have someone to possibly protect Penningtons backside. Pass D is still up in the air again. They lost their best DB (Ty Law) from last season and best pass rusher (John Abraham). So it will be interesting how the Jets do. The Patriots just need to do what they did the first time they won it with Belichek. Surprise the world. Cause that is the only way I see them in the Super Bowl quite honestly.
Unfortunately, the Jets still have Chad Pennington. Sorry, his arm strength is gone, and he just can't quite cut it in the NFL anymore.
The Pats' defense is gone, and unless Maroney steps it up big time, the offense isn't going to be anywhere near where it was two and three years ago. They still may be able to capitalize on a weak division, though, with the Jets and Bills stinking up the place (both need an actual quarterback) and the Dolphins still a big question mark.
I can definitely see an 8-8 team winning the AFC East this year.

[illusion]

sorry to be the one to break this to you but Antonio Gates is not a WR he's a TE. And San Diego while good will not win the divison with Phillip Rivers as their QB atleast not this year. The Divison title is most likely going to go to Denver.

As for KC they will be fairly good but Larry Johnson is not going to have the monster year almost everyone seems to think that he is going to have. i think that the loss of Wille Rolf is going to effect his and the Chiefs ability to run the ball. Also they have no good WR Kennison is ok but thats pretty much it aside from the TE who is probrbly the second best in the league right now behind gates.

I gotta disagree here, sure they lost Willie Roaf (future hall of famer), but they picked up Kyle Turley and the Cheifs have never had great wideouts, yet Trent Green still puts up pro bowl type numbers. Not to mention L.J. is a friggin' beast, the guy is in his prime! The only thing that can stop him is injuries.

The Cheifs are gonna win their division, they picked up Ty law (led the league in picks last year) and Sammy Knight to help their struggling secondary and they have a solid front seven this year (if Kendral Bell can stay healthy).

[Potentialflip]

I can definitely see an 8-8 team winning the AFC East this year.

I was looking more along the lines of 9-7 being the representative of the AFC East winner (personally the Dolphins because of their schedule when compared to that of New England).

As for San Diego. I have to admit they do have a shot. Even with Philip Rivers. People tend to forget this guy has an experienced offense around him. He is talented. I'm positive he could get it done. All he has to do is do what he is suppose to do. Given that they don't have such a tough schedule (which I consider they had out of any team last year) when compared to say Denver.

[JediJaina]

Ben Roethlisberger is out for the season opener. How do you guys think Charlie Batch will do?

I saw the Cowboys game where T.O. played. They couldn't stop putting the camera so much on Terrell Owens and focus on the game. I think that team will self-destruct.

[chubby]

Ben Roethlisberger is out for the season opener. How do you guys think Charlie Batch will do?
I don't think he'll do that good, but I also don't think he'll do that bad. Pittsburg doesn't ask much of their QB really, but still, without Jerome Bettis and Antwaan Randle-El, it'll probably be more of a strain on the QB this year than it has been in years past.

*sits in the corner of the room until the NFL season starts*

[Gyarados]

Yeah see the AFC East is quite weak. I'll admit that. But an 8-8 or even 9-7 team winning it this year may be pushing it a little. I see maybe 10-6 but still I see Miami and New England both have a great shot at winning 10+

San Diego, trust me. 11-5 or better.

[Potentialflip]

San Diego, trust me. 11-5 or better.

That's a pretty bold statement. I honestly say they could end at no better than 10-6. Their defense is not as solid as you think not even top 15 in my opinion. I only believe they could pull off the ten wins because of their lax schedule. That's not a good thing if you believe this team is that great.

[Gyarados]

I still say 11-5. People underrated the Chargers and their overall ability. You have to remember, Philip Rivers is a former #1 overall pick. So yeah I ain't worried about them. As far as I see it they're a pretty complete team. :oh

[LayZ]

Yeah, I admit the Chargers have the weapons to go 11-5, but you have to understand that the AFC is so deep. You have to truly be an elite team to go 11-5 in the AFC. The Chargers didn't go 11-5 last year with a proven pro bowl QB, so of course people are going to be skeptible about a QB who hasn't started a game. I think Alex Smith ahead of Rivers right now, IMO.

[Naruyamcha]

To all who may concern.

I posted week one predictions in this thread LINK HERE (http://forums.narutofan.com/showthread.php?t=133887)

Anyone's open to go there and post their predictions.... but only predictions.
I'll use this thread as a discussion reference *OK, chubby?* ^_^

[chubby]

Anyone's open to go there and post their predictions.... but only predictions.
I'll use this thread as a discussion reference *OK, chubby?* ^_^
you trying to steal my thread you dirty Yanks fan?! :mad

just kidding, its all good ^________^

NFL SEASON STARTS TOMORROW!!! :yell

[JediJaina]

It's weird seeing Madden & Michaels on another station.

[chubby]

yea, its kinda wierd

but damn, did you see Kieth Traylor tackle Willie Parker. It's not so much that it was a big hit (it really wasn't) its just that he's so damn big, that Willie just crumbled under his weight.

[Kira Yamato]

Nani? :S

Saban threw the flag before the extra kick and no one looks at it????

Wow...just wow...

Edit: hurray...more interceptions...*grabs cyanide*

[chubby]

Edit: hurray...more interceptions...*grabs cyanide*
NO KIRA, DON'T DO IT!!! there are still 15 games left!!! :arg

but yea, Saban should've gone further onto the field to throw it, or he just should've thrown it sooner

[Kira Yamato]

NO KIRA, DON'T DO IT!!! there are still 15 games left!!! :arg

but yea, Saban should've gone further onto the field to throw it, or he just should've thrown it sooner

I agree with you...Saban should have hit the judge with the flag (preferably by hitting him in the head), because that's the only way he would have noticed it v_v
But after that the dolphins shot themselves in the foot..so, I have to give my props to the steelers for a great game. They totally took over the game and controlled the tempo.

[Vince Johnson]

miami blew it

[JediJaina]

I agree with you...Saban should have hit the judge with the flag (preferably by hitting him in the head), because that's the only way he would have noticed it v_v
But after that the dolphins shot themselves in the foot..so, I have to give my props to the steelers for a great game. They totally took over the game and controlled the tempo.

I know some might not agree, but Saban did poorly in trying to get the ref's attention. I've seen coaches get on the field and run up to the referee to throw the flag. He could have threw it at him I agree.


Polamalu really worked hard to get an interception last night. That was pretty damn impressive. He was so close a few times and then he got it.

[datchapin]

NFL network has been turned on constantly in this household since preseason began. My team is the Bucs and I wish that Jon Gruden would move up Gradkowski as a backup to Simms. The throws that guy is making are phenomenal. They lost to the Dolphins last night, but a lot of the starters were benched so it's hard to judge.

We finally broke your streak. I'm a Texan's fan and seeing as how you guys had beaten us every yr. since we've been around it was really refreshing to finally win. GO TEXANS!!

[datchapin]

Last night's game was great! I thought Ronnie Brown showed he could handle the load even though he didn't get that many carries and he played an elite D I thought the way he ran was very aggressive. The Steelers D was just wow. I thought they wouldn't be as effective having lost their NT, but with all the wrinkles in their defensive playbook I thought it was a great game. Miami's D looked solid as well, but you could see they had holes in the secondary. You know I can't blame Saban for not going all out to challenge the play. I mean you really think they were gonna stop the Steelers 2 yds. out. I don't think so. I mean he made the right choice IMO. I just think that they crumbled under pressure, I think they began trying to force too many things. Two plays in a row they tried tossing to Chambers. I think that they got away from the running game and short passes too soon. I think the Dolphins did well. Miami's D did a good job of getting to the QB, but I gotta say I was impressed with Batch I didn't expect him to be too effective and they were really moving on O. Hines Ward is really impressive. I didn't expect that kind of performance out of him coming right off his injury. My last point on this is that Parker is running great. The Steelers running game looks real solid and they should be in the hunt for the play-offs again this yr.

[datchapin]

The Dolphins will definetely give the Pats a run for their money in the division. The Pats are solid yr. after yr. and alot of people make a big deal about loosing players, but I think their D is the one who usually keeps them in it. This season they lost an integral part in McGuinnest. Branch's situation will also hurt them. I just can't see them pulling to far ahead of the Fin's the AFC East will be more competitive between those two teams. Buffalo and N.Y. will be automatic wins for those two teams. I'm not gonna make any predictions, but it'll be the Pats or the Fin's with with winning record's in the playoffs.

[datchapin]

What is wrong with you people. The Chargers, the Chiefs!!! What have they done to improve, Ummm, exactly. Denver will take that division, they have all their players back this yr. with the exception of Trevor Pryce. Their offense is always tops in the league in rushing, this isn't gonna change. Add to this that they improved by getting JAVON WALKER! I can't believe the Broncos haven't been touted on here yet. No worries I'm here to make sure they get their props. Their defense is still intact, c'mon they have the best linebacking core in the league, their secondary and front four still look solid, I really don't see any holes with the Broncos. I can spot holes in all the other teams in that division though. Chargers, basically a rookie QB right that's not questionable, who are his WR's ummm oh that's right Antonio Gates oh I almost forgot they have no WR's their best receiver is the TE. They lost Steve Foley for who knows how long so that's a blow to a defense that isn't exactly elite. The Chiefs, lost a pro-bowl HOF LT, and what is Roaf's replacement, Turley, I'm sorry, but if that isn't a downgrade then you don't know what you're talking about. How great will they be without their LT, guess it's a good thing Green can get rid of the ball so quickly. Hmm, okay can't find too many holes with them right now. The Raiders........ that should be self explanatory. Broncos take this for sure.

[chubby]

:blink

I don't think I've ever seen a quadrouple-post before

Dolphins spit-the-bit, and Culpepper choked too......there aren't showing me that they can win the division

[Vince Johnson]

chiefs got HERM PLAY TO WIN THE GAME EDWARDS

[JediJaina]

We finally broke your streak. I'm a Texan's fan and seeing as how you guys had beaten us every yr. since we've been around it was really refreshing to finally win. GO TEXANS!!


I'm happy for you, but the Bucs hardly played their starters for most of the preseason anyway. The most the starters played was first half in the Jaguars game.

[SilverCross]

bout time football starts!

my 49ers lost, but, im pretty happy with how did tho, just a bit more time, they will be a great team agian.

[Sorrow-Tear's Champion]

Ah there's nothing more satisfying than the Bears beat the stank off of Green Bay. And juding by the looks on T.O.'s face,it's only a matter of time before he completely destroys the Cowboys from within. I'm so happy.

[chubby]

bout time football starts!

my 49ers lost, but, im pretty happy with how did tho, just a bit more time, they will be a great team agian.
yea, I saw them lose. I'm somewhat of a 49ers fan as well, although much more of a Pats fan :nod

anyhoo, the Pats won, although it was more due to the Bills 2nd half performance than anything

[JediJaina]

Either the Bucs are going to really suck this year or the Ravens have a fantastic team. McNair looked in top form.

[Yoshi]

I've finally given in and started watching NFL (for a Brit this is something!). So any advice and help for a newcomer to the sport is appreciated. At the moment my aliances are to no-one, but that may change, who knows?

[JediJaina]

I've finally given in and started watching NFL (for a Brit this is something!). So any advice and help for a newcomer to the sport is appreciated. At the moment my aliances are to no-one, but that may change, who knows?

For a start if you want to learn more about it this site has the links that'll tell more about the game (beginners guide, rules, etc):


http://www.nfl.com/features/rulebook

[mecca]

My Pats won but we didn't play all that well. Brady was not at his best yesterday. We just got lucky Buffalo fell apart in the seconed half.

Did you guys see Trent Green get destroyed? I thought that was the biggest cheap shot ever.

[JediJaina]

Yeah Trent Green was sliding and he got hit. I swear that was scary. I didn't see him move a muscle.

[Stealth Tomato]

Thoughts:
Ronnie Brown looked about as good as you can while rushing for two yards a carry. The Steelers' line absolutely dominated, and Brown should have been down in the backfield almost every play. He's going to be a beast this year. So is the Pittsburgh defense.
Daunte Culpepper is still Daunte Culpepper.
Chad Pennington has fiinally stopped being Chad Pennington.
Ditto for Alex Smith.
Is Charlie Batch as good as he looked, or is Miami's pass defense really that bad?
Donte' Stallworth looks like one of the best pickups of the offseason, but maybe that's just the Houston pass defense. On his 42-yard touchdown, there wasn't a defender within 20 yards of him. Everyone just stared at him as he ran by.
Tom Brady is back to his usual antics of spending the first half losing the game and the second half bringing the Patriots back from the dead. But this was the Bills. They're not going to be able to do that against everyone. The line play was horrible. The linebackers were even worse. The pass defense made J.P. Losman look good. This team will be lucky to finish 8-8.
The Colts better get it together, fast. The Giants handed that game to them on a silver platter.
Eli Manning still sucks.
The AFC North is officially this year's Group of Death. Baltimore won by a shutout, Cincinnati beat up the Chiefs, and Pittsburgh ended Miami's six-game win streak (from the end of last year) using their backup quarterback. Fortunately, the Browns still suck, so it'll only be a battle of three teams.
The NFC East won't be half of what it was supposed to be unless Drew Bledsoe and Eli Manning take some quarterback lessons in the next week.

[Powdered Toast Man]

Just Putting in words......
COLTS FTW....although the run is terrible...they need a back now.
Honestly I can say I'm impressed with the Ravens...who knew they could put up some numbers

Bears...it's about time
Packers: It's time to build for the future, Favre is over the hill and if this road continues he's not gonna be starting for long.

[SilverCross]

Thoughts:
Ronnie Brown looked about as good as you can while rushing for two yards a carry. The Steelers' line absolutely dominated, and Brown should have been down in the backfield almost every play. He's going to be a beast this year. So is the Pittsburgh defense.
Daunte Culpepper is still Daunte Culpepper.
Chad Pennington has fiinally stopped being Chad Pennington.
Ditto for Alex Smith.
Is Charlie Batch as good as he looked, or is Miami's pass defense really that bad?
Donte' Stallworth looks like one of the best pickups of the offseason, but maybe that's just the Houston pass defense. On his 42-yard touchdown, there wasn't a defender within 20 yards of him. Everyone just stared at him as he ran by.
Tom Brady is back to his usual antics of spending the first half losing the game and the second half bringing the Patriots back from the dead. But this was the Bills. They're not going to be able to do that against everyone. The line play was horrible. The linebackers were even worse. The pass defense made J.P. Losman look good. This team will be lucky to finish 8-8.
The Colts better get it together, fast. The Giants handed that game to them on a silver platter.
Eli Manning still sucks.
The AFC North is officially this year's Group of Death. Baltimore won by a shutout, Cincinnati beat up the Chiefs, and Pittsburgh ended Miami's six-game win streak (from the end of last year) using their backup quarterback. Fortunately, the Browns still suck, so it'll only be a battle of three teams.
The NFC East won't be half of what it was supposed to be unless Drew Bledsoe and Eli Manning take some quarterback lessons in the next week.



i got 2 points i must really dissagree with you on, Alex Smith didnt stop being Alex Smith, from the looks of this game, hes finally gonna be Alex Smith again, he looks to be playing a bit closer to what he should be.

Eli manning didnt suck at all, he played a good game, it was a close game between the giants and the colts, i think you should re-evaluate that call.

[Yoshi]

Hey Jedi, thanks for the tips. I've read the basics and think I have a general understanding of the rules. Now all I need to do is pick a team to route for. This is going to be difficult however as I'm English and have no allegiance as someone living in a particular area of America might. I also have no relatives in America.

Any advice anyone?

[Vince Johnson]

root for a really bad team so you dont seem like a bandwagoner

[Yoshi]

Would it be wrong to start supporting a team because I like their theme?

[chubby]

Would it be wrong to start supporting a team because I like their theme?
well considering you don't live in the states, its not like you'd be betraying your home team, so I don't see why not

[Kakashi's_girl]

Dolphins look pretty good this year. I was upset tho that Rams beat Broncos. I like both but the Broncs, Dolphins, and Ravens are my favorites...I just hope New England doesnt win the Superbowl again this year! <.<

[datchapin]

All I gotta say about my team is that I was disappointed, we didn't do anything like we did in the pre-season. I'm not talking about performance-wise as the regular season is a different beast, but our play-calling was really disappointing and while we had a decent first half we were unable to make any half-time adjustments and the Eagles just destroyed us. It's still a long season though and I expect my team will make improvements as the season goes on, but overall I think we had a good wake up call.

GO TEXANS!! Well at least I know I'm not a bandwagon fan. lol.

[Kakashi's_girl]

i got 2 points i must really dissagree with you on, Alex Smith didnt stop being Alex Smith, from the looks of this game, hes finally gonna be Alex Smith again, he looks to be playing a bit closer to what he should be.

Eli manning didnt suck at all, he played a good game, it was a close game between the giants and the colts, i think you should re-evaluate that call.

I agree with you on that. Eli Manning didnt suck. :) He's a good player.

[Jin22]

Oakland got a good spankin last night by San Diego. All I got to say is that their defense looked horrible and their offensive line needs Jesus.

[Dragen]

Freaking Oakland got killed last night. San Diego Ran the ball all over Oakland. Its practically all that they did, I belive that Rivers threw 11 passes all night. Oakland will be lucky to win 4 games all season.

[Killa Cam]

Porter says he wasn't even paying attention to game
ESPN.com news services

It turns out that Raiders wide receiver Jerry Porter wasn't cheering against his own team. In fact, he wasn't even watching the game.

The San Francisco Chronicle reported on its Web site that Porter, who was inactive for the 27-0 beating the Raiders absorbed from the San Diego Chargers on Monday night, was seen laughing and pumping his fist on the sidelines when Raiders teammate Aaron Brooks was sacked for the seventh time.

LMAO @ this
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2584133

[chubby]

well, its better than cheering against your own team, but its still stupid. Porter better get his head back in the game soon, since the Raiders are trash atm

[JediJaina]

Damn I saw some of the Raiders games in the preseason and they don't look like the same team.

[chubby]

in a good way or a bad way? I'm guessing bad, although it can't get much worse than last year

[Rukia]

Phillip Rivers certainly surprised me. I expected him to be atrocious. I even picked Oakland to defeat San Diego based on that assumption. Boy was I wrong. Even though it has only been a week, San Diego has established themselves as the team to beat in the AFC West. I am serious! After only a single week they have managed to do it. Oakland looked awful; they might be the worst team in football. This is the typical Denver team; they can't beat anyone on the road. They will probably have one of the best home records in football like they usually do. But I think they make actually have to play .500 road football to make the playoffs this year. The Chiefs are reeling after Trent Green's concussion. I expected the Chiefs to win this league before this set of games. They were far from impressive though, even before Green's injury the Bengal’s were dominating all facets of the game. And they did so at Arrowhead! So after week 1, San Diego sits atop the AFC West. I won't be surprised if Denver, Oakland, and Kansas City are all looking up after week 16 either.

[Redemption]

Phillip Rivers certainly surprised me. I expected him to be atrocious. I even picked Oakland to defeat San Diego based on that assumption. Boy was I wrong. Even though it has only been a week, San Diego has established themselves as the team to beat in the AFC West. I am serious! After only a single week they have managed to do it. Oakland looked awful; they might be the worst team in football. This is the typical Denver team; they can't beat anyone on the road. They will probably have one of the best home records in football like they usually do. But I think they make actually have to play .500 road football to make the playoffs this year. The Chiefs are reeling after Trent Green's concussion. I expected the Chiefs to win this league before this set of games. They were far from impressive though, even before Green's injury the Bengal’s were dominating all facets of the game. And they did so at Arrowhead! So after week 1, San Diego sits atop the AFC West. I won't be surprised if Denver, Oakland, and Kansas City are all looking up after week 16 either.

We have yet to see anything except better ball control from Philip Rivers, it was the incredible defense that won the game from the first quarter. Don't go giving him any alcolades yet he has yet to trully prove himself. The most important thing he did in the game was not turn over the football. If you see a third quarter like that again of just LT for 3 consecutive possesions of 3 and out they will loose to about any other team that has any sort of offense whatsoever.

What won them the game and gave them the shutout was the defense. If a quaterback is sacked 9 times (2 shy of the nfl record) in a game that says something! The number one run defense in the NFL has gotten even better if thats even possible! Shawn Merriman had 3 sacks, L. Castillo had 3 sacks, S. Phillips had 2 sacks, and D. Edwards had a sack as well.

Chargers are headed in the right direction, if they have an even more improved defense and maybe a better secondary; but this is only game one I need to see more 3rd and long pass completions to fully buy Rivers and the Chargers as a contender.

I was extremly sadened with what happened with Green, the Chiefs whole season is in jeporady now. They might not even make .500 The Broncos are playing there usual ball just came up short in game one, I believe they will be contenders for the AFC west at some point. Wheither Chargers surpass them or not it all depends on Rivers. LT and Gates can only get you so far, Rivers has to be their leader and taskmaster.

[Rukia]

The most important thing he did in the game was not turn over the football.
Oh no doubt. This is what I didn't expect from him. I thought he would look like Alex Smith from last year. Fumbles, interceptions, sacks taken. I expected it all. For one game, it didn't happen. I was pleasantly surprised. Trent Dilfer winning a Super Bowl with the Ravens is the only proof I need to know that a mediocre QB can win if he has an excellent defense.

[JediJaina]

in a good way or a bad way? I'm guessing bad, although it can't get much worse than last year


The Oakland Raiders finished the 2006 pre-season with a 4-1 record

Usually when a team does well in the preseason (or so records say), they do well in the regular season. Although it doesn't seem to be the case for the Raiders.

[Kisame]

Im so glad the Saints got rid of that lame Aaron Brooks.

he caused me many a night of heartache.


Fumbles and sacks are his specialty. Add in a few interceptions and you wonder how the saints had wins at all.

[Stealth Tomato]

Damn I saw some of the Raiders games in the preseason and they don't look like the same team.
Teams don't blitz during the preseason.

Blitzing the Raiders is like walking through a revolving door.

[Rukia]

This will be an excellent test for Charlie Batch, Vash. Monday night against an excellent defense. I want to pick the Steelers, but I am not sure that I will have the guts to do so. Jacksonville went 12-4 last year and has the home field. This may be Pittsburgh's toughest game all season.

[Redemption]

This will be an excellent test for Charlie Batch, Vash. Monday night against an excellent defense. I want to pick the Steelers, but I am not sure that I will have the guts to do so. Jacksonville went 12-4 last year and has the home field. This may be Pittsburgh's toughest game all season.

Well said Tobiume, this game could define the Steeler/Jaguar season. Looking ahead in the Steeler season [Week 3 Bengals, Week 5 @Chargers, Week 15 @Carolina are the only other real tests. They should win against the Broncos, Week 9 at home.]

The early lines are even with a slight advantage to the Steelers at the moment and probably will end with a 1/2 to 1 pt advantage either way bye next Monday. The Carolina and New Orleans games have a 2 pt advange. All other games this week are heavily favored.

NFL Week 2 Line as of Wednesday September 13, 2006


Date & Time Favorite Line Underdog Total

9/17 1:00 ET At Baltimore -11.5 Oakland 34.5
9/17 1:00 ET At Indianapolis -13 Houston 47
9/17 1:00 ET At Cincinnati -10.5 Cleveland 42.5
9/17 1:00 ET At Miami -6.5 Buffalo 37
9/17 1:00 ET At Chicago -8.5 Detroit 32.5
9/17 1:00 ET Carolina -2 At Minnesota 37
9/17 1:00 ET At Philadelphia -3 NY Giants 42
9/17 1:00 ET At Atlanta -5.5 Tampa Bay 36.5
9/17 1:00 ET New Orleans -2 At Green Bay 37.5
9/17 4:05 ET St. Louis -3 At San Francisco 44
9/17 4:05 ET At Seattle -7 Arizona 47
9/17 4:15 ET New England -6 At NY Jets 37
9/17 4:15 ET At San Diego -11.5 Tennessee 38
9/17 4:15 ET At Denver -10.5 Kansas City 40
9/17 8:15 ET At Dallas -5.5 Washington 37

Monday Night Football Line

9/18 8:30 ET At Jacksonville EVEN Pittsburgh 36.5

[JediJaina]

Teams don't blitz during the preseason.

Blitzing the Raiders is like walking through a revolving door.


You got a point there. Brooks got sacked 7 times.

[chubby]

The Oakland Raiders finished the 2006 pre-season with a 4-1 record

Usually when a team does well in the preseason (or so records say), they do well in the regular season. Although it doesn't seem to be the case for the Raiders.
yea, the Raiders are still kinda.......out of sorts. their defense is.....iffy at best, and their offense isn't too awesome either. they need to get whipped into shape, they're still not playing like a team

[Sorrow-Tear's Champion]

Was Deion Branch really worth a #1. I mean Javon Walker went for what a2nd or 3rd and imo he was a better receiver. And nobody should be surprised by the Raiders. Aaron Brooks as qb. al Davis as owner. Top 10 draft pick again.

[Gyarados]

Wow, I must say Jacksonville looked awesome in week 1. I wonder if it's a sign of things to come.

[Orga777]

Was Deion Branch really worth a #1. I mean Javon Walker went for what a2nd or 3rd and imo he was a better receiver. And nobody should be surprised by the Raiders. Aaron Brooks as qb. al Davis as owner. Top 10 draft pick again.

As a Seattle Seahawks fan, I have to say yes. Branch was the go to guy in New England. He has a Super Bowl MVP. He knows how to win (and catch unlike Engram). And since Seattle will have another late rounder IMO, it really doesn't matter. The team is in good shape.

As for the Raiders....... Well, they are the Raiders. Pre Season means nothing in the regular season and they just solified that point. Forget top ten, try top five or even three draft choice. And as long as Al Davis is still the owner, they will continue to suck. Aaron Brooks was also a stupid choice for starting quarterback. He isn't even good anymore and with him gone it will only help the Saints out since they got Brees.

[Gyarados]

Yeah, the Raiders are looking awful. I still think they'll win at least 6, but against San Diego they looked awful last Monday night.

The Saints will only get better with time too, maybe only 8 or 9 wins this year (at most) but in 3-4 years from now they will probably be a top 3 or 4 favorite for the Super Bowl I think. I mean Brees + Bush + McAlister + Horn + alright defensive and special teams play can add up to something special in the next couple years.

[Yoshi]

Seeing as the Panthers did so badly against the Falcons last week (20 - 6, ouch!), I'm hoping the Vikings can give them a good whooping.

[Rukia]

I think the Panthers defense is too solid for them to take a 'whooping'. But I certainly wouldn't mind if they did. Is Steve Smith still out for them? Their offense is non-existent without him.

[Gyarados]

I picked the Vikings over the Panthers for this week. I mean Minnesota is looking good. Their defense for once is good and their offense looks led pretty well. They can win 10 games this year I think. Carolina it's just a shame they're in such a tough division.

[Yoshi]

Apparently Steve Smith is 'questionable' for the match against Minnesota: http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/CAR/9658129

All-Pro receiver Steve Smith and center Justin Hartwig also missed practice and were listed as questionable for the game.

Will Dan Morgan's absence be a bit hit to Carolina?

[Rukia]

I don't know if it will. I consider Fox to be a lot like Belichick. A defensive mastermind. I think he can plug unknowns in or change game plans and find a way to get enough out of his defense.

[Gyarados]

Belicheck is an all-round genius. He could make Tom Brady pass to 8 different receivers in a game, have 2 backs run for 50+ yards each and hold opponents to under 10 points a game a lot of times. I think he has to be considered as one of the greatest coaches of all-time.

As far as Fox goes, I'd personally pick Del Rio over him because Del Rio is more all-round like Belicheck, Gibbs, Gruden, and Parcells are. Fox is all-defense as a coach.

But in today's NFL there are so many good coaches out there. I mean Parcells, Belicheck, Cowher, Gruden, Dungy, Gibbs, Reid, Del Rio, Schottenheimer, Shanahan and the list goes on.

[Stealth Tomato]

Belicheck is an all-round genius. He could make Tom Brady pass to 8 different receivers in a game, have 2 backs run for 50+ yards each and hold opponents to under 10 points a game a lot of times. I think he has to be considered as one of the greatest coaches of all-time.

As far as Fox goes, I'd personally pick Del Rio over him because Del Rio is more all-round like Belicheck, Gibbs, Gruden, and Parcells are. Fox is all-defense as a coach.

But in today's NFL there are so many good coaches out there. I mean Parcells, Belicheck, Cowher, Gruden, Dungy, Gibbs, Reid, Del Rio, Schottenheimer, Shanahan and the list goes on.
I don't really see Belichick as a genius. He makes halftime adjustments better than perhaps any other coach in the game, but coaches like Cowher and Shanahan come into the game with the proper adjustments. Belichick's 30 minutes of football behind those two most games.
Also, it's easy to be a defensive mastermind when you have the best linebackers in the game and one of the best secondaries. What happened when they started losing defensive personnel? The wheels came off. The pass defense was horrendous last year, and it doesn't look like it's about to magically reverse itself.

Belichick is, however, one of the best drafting coaches in the game. He gets excellent value out of his picks.

[Gyarados]

I think a major reason that their pass defense was so bad last year was due to the injury of Rodney Harrison. Also losing Ty Law to the Jets didn't help at all. But now with the younger guys a year more experienced in the secondary, and with Rodney Harrison back, I think their pass defense is a top 15 or top 12 maybe in the league. Also a year removed from Romeo Crenel going to Cleveland and losing him as your defensive co-ordinator was another reason. I'm not making excuses but I think that last year yes, the wheels DID fall off. But this year it will be better. I think their run defense is no worry either. One thing I am worried about is if anyone other then Troy Brown can help Tom Brady out this year and make some nice pass plays. When New England plays well I find them the funnest team to watch. Anywho, yeah I think it was a lot of things that resulted in what happened last year, but this year should not be as bad.

[Sorrow-Tear's Champion]

As a Seattle Seahawks fan, I have to say yes. Branch was the go to guy in New England. He has a Super Bowl MVP. He knows how to win (and catch unlike Engram). And since Seattle will have another late rounder IMO, it really doesn't matter. The team is in good shape.

As for the Raiders....... Well, they are the Raiders. Pre Season means nothing in the regular season and they just solified that point. Forget top ten, try top five or even three draft choice. And as long as Al Davis is still the owner, they will continue to suck. Aaron Brooks was also a stupid choice for starting quarterback. He isn't even good anymore and with him gone it will only help the Saints out since they got Brees.
I was going to put top 5 for them, then Iremembered they lucked up and picked 8th this year. Ireally wonder if Warren Sapp is rethinking how far Carson Palmer can take him now. Since that's why he didn't sign with the Bengals. And I think Branch is a good pick up for Seattle. They've had problems with drops the past couple of years. I just thought a no. 1 was too much. But if they had two then I guess it was worth the risk, being so close.

[Rukia]

Hmm. This scandalous story about Reggie Bush that leaked out makes me nervous about New Orleans game against Green Bay. Is an unrelated story like this capable of being a distraction for the whole team?

[Stealth Tomato]

I think a major reason that their pass defense was so bad last year was due to the injury of Rodney Harrison. Also losing Ty Law to the Jets didn't help at all. But now with the younger guys a year more experienced in the secondary, and with Rodney Harrison back, I think their pass defense is a top 15 or top 12 maybe in the league.
Impressive. They might actually be average this year.

Also a year removed from Romeo Crenel going to Cleveland and losing him as your defensive co-ordinator was another reason. I'm not making excuses but I think that last year yes, the wheels DID fall off. But this year it will be better.
How so? They haven't picked up a soul save Maroney, who's just the backup to Dillon. They continue to lose key players (Vinatieri not being one of them) and yet you think they'll magically return to greatness? The wheels didn't fall off last year; they went 10-6. The pass defense suffered a lot of injuries, but it was already the weak link. Last year they actually had receivers, and the only problem beyond the secondary was the middle linebackers. This year, the receiving corps are gone (Bam Childress is the #4 right now, and last year he played more preseason snaps at defensive end than receiver), the offensive line looks weak, the defensive line has definitely lost something, and the secondary still sucks. They might make 8-8 thanks to a weak division, but it's over for them. Eventually they need to realize they can't play football with Tom Brady and nobody else.

[JediJaina]

Hmm. This scandalous story about Reggie Bush that leaked out makes me nervous about New Orleans game against Green Bay. Is an unrelated story like this capable of being a distraction for the whole team?



http://www.suntimes.com/output/campus/cst-spt-usc15.html

If they keep the focus on football and away from the distractions it might not be a problem.


Also a year removed from Romeo Crenel going to Cleveland and losing him as your defensive co-ordinator was another reason. I'm not making excuses but I think that last year yes, the wheels DID fall off. But this year it will be better

Didn't the Patriots lose both their coordinators the same year (Romeo Crennel and Charlie Weis)?

[Orga777]

Wow, people are really doubting the Patriots. People, don't right them off just yet. This team is still a very strong candidate for the Super Bowl. They know how to win, they know how to play as a team, they have the best coach in the league at the moment, and they have the best quarterback in the game today. I am tired of people writing the Patriots off so easily. They are still a good team, and they will still win that division and definitely get far in the playoffs.

I would be more worried about Pittsburgh not making the playoffs actually. With Baltimore and Cincinnati in that same division, Pitt will have A LOT of issues. And since both teams beat down two other good teams like they were nothing at all while Pitt struggled against an average Miami team they are going to be in a lot of pain this year. Especially if Roethlisburger doesn't play well this up coming week. They better not play like they did against Miami either, because if they do J-Ville is going to steamroll right passed them.

[Gyarados]

I agree wit the above poster. I think the Pats will for sure win 10, Tom Brady may not be the flashiest, most stylish QB in the league, but he still gets the job done as good as any QB out there. I still have the Pats going 12-4 or better I originally said 13-3 but meh 12 or 13 wins sounds reasonable. And yes I agree, they are a strong candidate for the Super Bowl.

As for Pittsburgh, they're good yes. But Cincinnati is tough, even though I think Pittsburgh is better then Cincy and watch out for dem Ravens eh? I mean they look like they're back and match-up pretty well against Pittsburgh and if any team out there in the league in general could hurt the Steelers, it's the Ravens I think. Not Cincinnati, probably not even Denver, Kansas City, Indianapolis either. I think New England, Baltimore, Jacksonville are the 3 teams that can hurt the Steelers the most. . .when it counts.

[Rukia]

In my survivor elimination league I picked the Ravens as my sure thing for this week. They looked solid last week and the Raiders would have been defeated by a West Texas High School football team the way they looked on Monday.

[Gyarados]

Sad thing is the Raiders have so much hope year in, year out. Yet they fail time after time. Kind of like the New York Knicks of football, or the New York Rangers of hockey, or even the Toronto Blue Jays of baseball. I mean Moss, Sapp, Woodson 3 pro-bowlers right there. Aaron Brooks ain't half-bad either. But I think there's too many egos on the team. And the way it's run ain't good. I think they need to re-locate in Los Angeles and then they might actually finish 10-6 or better for the first time in like 5 years. Because honestly in the last 5 years, they have been one of, if not THE worst football franchises in all of football over the last 5 years.

[Rukia]

have been one of, if not THE worst football franchises in all of football over the last 5 years.That is a harsh assessment isn't it? They will never be known as the worst football franchise as long as Arizona and Detroit still have teams.

[Stealth Tomato]

Wow, people are really doubting the Patriots. People, don't right them off just yet. This team is still a very strong candidate for the Super Bowl. They know how to win, they know how to play as a team, they have the best coach in the league at the moment, and they have the best quarterback in the game today. I am tired of people writing the Patriots off so easily. They are still a good team, and they will still win that division and definitely get far in the playoffs.
I think you just set a record for bullshit football cliches in a paragraph by a non-sportswriter. They have a good coach and a good quarterback, which are both obvious, and you said nothing else of any value in that entire thing.

I would be more worried about Pittsburgh not making the playoffs actually. With Baltimore and Cincinnati in that same division, Pitt will have A LOT of issues. And since both teams beat down two other good teams like they were nothing at all while Pitt struggled against an average Miami team they are going to be in a lot of pain this year. Especially if Roethlisburger doesn't play well this up coming week. They better not play like they did against Miami either, because if they do J-Ville is going to steamroll right passed them.
First off, thanks for being vindictive. I know it's a huge insult to your precious Patriots for anyone to even consider that they might not roll over teams to the playoffs and win the Super Bowl every year, but at least make your anger less obvious by not immediately insulting my team.
Also, I don't know if you're aware of this, but Charlie Batch was our quarterback against Miami. Charlie Batch is not our franchise quarterback. Detroit didn't even want him. If we can beat a Miami team that is expected by many to make the playoffs using a reject quarterback, I'm thinking we'll be more than okay once our top-five quarterback returns to the field.

[Stealth Tomato]

That is a harsh assessment isn't it? They will never be known as the worst football franchise as long as Arizona and Detroit still have teams.
Arizona has been bad, but they are far from the worst over the last five years, especially since they appear to be actually getting their act together. The worst by far is Houston, followed by Detroit and Tennessee (the latter of which is simply in cap hell for overspending). Oakland comes in somewhere around fourth or fifth on the list.

[Gyarados]

That is a harsh assessment isn't it? They will never be known as the worst football franchise as long as Arizona and Detroit still have teams.

Well it's between Arizona, San Fran, Houston, Oakland, Detroit, Cleveland. I personally say Houston and Detroit may be worse, so I sort of take back my last statement about the Raiders being THE worst.

First off, thanks for being vindictive. I know it's a huge insult to your precious Patriots for anyone to even consider that they might not roll over teams to the playoffs and win the Super Bowl every year, but at least make your anger less obvious by not immediately insulting my team.
Also, I don't know if you're aware of this, but Charlie Batch was our quarterback against Miami. Charlie Batch is not our franchise quarterback. Detroit didn't even want him. If we can beat a Miami team that is expected by many to make the playoffs using a reject quarterback, I'm thinking we'll be more than okay once our top-five quarterback returns to the field.

I never insulted your team. I said they could beat Indianapolis and Cincinnati, how insulting is that? Not very insulting if you ask me. I just don't think they match-up well against Baltimore or Jacksonville, or even New England as New England has beaten Pittsburgh time after time over the course of the last 3-4 years and history has proven it. The Pats are resilient and the Steelers won the SB last year WITHOUT getting through the Pats. So I don't know man, I think Pittsburgh is maybe 4th best in the AFC and I'm so sorry I don't think they're the best like you obviously think they are. To each his own.

PS: San Diego and Denver would have a good shot against Pitt too.

[Stealth Tomato]

I never insulted your team. I said they could beat Indianapolis and Cincinnati, how insulting is that? Not very insulting if you ask me. I just don't think they match-up well against Baltimore or Jacksonville, or even New England as New England has beaten Pittsburgh time after time over the course of the last 3-4 years and history has proven it. The Pats are resilient and the Steelers won the SB last year WITHOUT getting through the Pats. So I don't know man, I think Pittsburgh is maybe 4th best in the AFC and I'm so sorry I don't think they're the best like you obviously think they are. To each his own.

PS: San Diego and Denver would have a good shot against Pitt too.
Maybe next time you respond to a post you should look to see who it's actually replying to. I quoted Orga, not you. You win for getting extremely angry at a post not addressed to you.

Also, to respond to your ridiculous claims of my rampant Pittsburgh homerism, I never said we're the best team ever. I just said we're a lot better with Ben Roethlisberger than with Charlie Batch, and yet we still beat good teams with Batch.
You're right, we don't match up well with Jacksonville. We only took them to overtime using Tommy Maddox as our quarterback, then lost when he fumbled from inside field goal range and then threw an interception returned for a touchdown. They own us.
Over the last 3-4 years, we are 1-2 against New England. We've toasted them once, they've toasted us once, and we played one close game that New England won when Antwaan Randle El gave the ball away inside their ten.
We've also had a lot of problems against Denver, despite thrashing them 34-17 in Denver last year and losing by only three points with the Maddox-led team of 2003.

[datchapin]

Record-wise yeah I can admit the Texans have been the worst in the league over their history. However to list them below Tennesse and Detroit isn't right. Talent wise we have the personnel to be in the better half of the league. However the last few yrs. we've had horrendous coaching. Disagree if you want, but our head coach was also the one who saw the downfall of Carolina after the playoff berth. Capers failed in so many ways it's not even funny and last yr. was an aberration I mean the guy scrapped the playbook he used in the pre-season and played musical chairs with the o-line. Even considering the drastic circumstances we had some close games lost on bad calls, bad play-calling and missed FG's I'm not saying we didn't earn such a bad record, but we had a better team then our record indicates last yr. Considering they just came into the league you can't really have expected them to win the first two yrs. and they looked good their third yr. or at least more respectable falling short of .500, but this yr. we are re-tooling and should look much better as the season progresses. As a Texan fan I worry if we made the right choice in D-cordinator, because they are not putting Williams in a position to excell shifting him all over the line, but only time will tell. I gotta say though, c'mon they aren't the worst franchise in the last 5 yrs. this is their fifth yr. we didn't even have a franchise yet five yrs. ago.

[Gyarados]

Also, to respond to your ridiculous claims of my rampant Pittsburgh homerism, I never said we're the best team ever. I just said we're a lot better with Ben Roethlisberger than with Charlie Batch, and yet we still beat good teams with Batch.
You're right, we don't match up well with Jacksonville. We only took them to overtime using Tommy Maddox as our quarterback, then lost when he fumbled from inside field goal range and then threw an interception returned for a touchdown. They own us.
Over the last 3-4 years, we are 1-2 against New England. We've toasted them once, they've toasted us once, and we played one close game that New England won when Antwaan Randle El gave the ball away inside their ten.
We've also had a lot of problems against Denver, despite thrashing them 34-17 in Denver last year and losing by only three points with the Maddox-led team of 2003.

Personally I think you guys overall are a better team then Denver. I really do. But Jacksonville now I mean they're a pretty complete team. Not outstanding, no. But a good team that could even beat New England, Carolina if they wanted to just because their style.

It's hard to say who's what. At least until week 5 or 6, but for now I still think that some teams will give Pittsburgh a run for their money over the course of the season. Pats too of course. I mean Miami always seems to beat us even when the Pats were winning 13-14 a year a couple years back.

Record-wise yeah I can admit the Texans have been the worst in the league over their history. However to list them below Tennesse and Detroit isn't right. Talent wise we have the personnel to be in the better half of the league. However the last few yrs. we've had horrendous coaching. Disagree if you want, but our head coach was also the one who saw the downfall of Carolina after the playoff berth. Capers failed in so many ways it's not even funny and last yr. was an aberration I mean the guy scrapped the playbook he used in the pre-season and played musical chairs with the o-line. Even considering the drastic circumstances we had some close games lost on bad calls, bad play-calling and missed FG's I'm not saying we didn't earn such a bad record, but we had a better team then our record indicates last yr. Considering they just came into the league you can't really have expected them to win the first two yrs. and they looked good their third yr. or at least more respectable falling short of .500, but this yr. we are re-tooling and should look much better as the season progresses. As a Texan fan I worry if we made the right choice in D-cordinator, because they are not putting Williams in a position to excell shifting him all over the line, but only time will tell. I gotta say though, c'mon they aren't the worst franchise in the last 5 yrs. this is their fifth yr. we didn't even have a franchise yet five yrs. ago.

Well, I was watching Sportscenter a few days ago, and I remember something being brought up about the Texans being the worst, least successful expansion team in their first few years since get this, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Like I remember just in recent history, Dom Capers took the Panthers in their second year I believe all the way to the NFC Championship and like a 12-4 record, clawing with the then very tough 49ers in the then NFC West. I believe the Packers beat the Panthers and ultimately won the SB that year. But my point is I think it isn't Dom Capers fault, entirely anyway. And that expansion teams should be at least average by year 3 or 4. Jacksonville too I thought in like year 4 had won like 14 games. I don't remember exactly but yeah some more proof there.

Don't worry though, sooner or later Houston will get in there, it may take another couple years, half-dozen years who knows but sooner or later they'll get in there like every team does at one time or another.

[Rukia]

Well it's between Arizona, San Fran, Houston, Oakland, Detroit, Cleveland. I think my quote was misinterpreted by some people. When I said that the Ravens won't be known as the worst franchise as long as Arizona and Detroit have teams....I wasn't talking about lack of success for the last 5 years. I was talking about lack of success for all time. Oakland and San Francisco have at least won Super Bowls. Cleveland has been to AFC Championship games. That is why those can't be known as the worst franchises in my opinion. When have Arizona or Detroit accomplished anything? Another team that I can throw into the group with them is the Saints. They have maybe 2 playoff victories in the history of their franchise. Those are my picks for 3 worst franchises in the history of the NFL. In a few years the Texans could join them and make it a quartet.

[Gyarados]

Oh, all-time then yeah, I mean definetely the Lions and Cardinals. I mean hands down. But in the last 5 years I meant, I stick to the Browns, Texans, Lions, Raiders, Niners as the worst in the last 5 years, but if I had even said the Niners or Raiders were the worst of all-time then I would have about as much football knowledge a 2-by-4.

[datchapin]

Personally I think you guys overall are a better team then Denver. I really do. But Jacksonville now I mean they're a pretty complete team. Not outstanding, no. But a good team that could even beat New England, Carolina if they wanted to just because their style.

It's hard to say who's what. At least until week 5 or 6, but for now I still think that some teams will give Pittsburgh a run for their money over the course of the season. Pats too of course. I mean Miami always seems to beat us even when the Pats were winning 13-14 a year a couple years back.



Well, I was watching Sportscenter a few days ago, and I remember something being brought up about the Texans being the worst, least successful expansion team in their first few years since get this, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Like I remember just in recent history, Dom Capers took the Panthers in their second year I believe all the way to the NFC Championship and like a 12-4 record, clawing with the then very tough 49ers in the then NFC West. I believe the Packers beat the Panthers and ultimately won the SB that year. But my point is I think it isn't Dom Capers fault, entirely anyway. And that expansion teams should be at least average by year 3 or 4. Jacksonville too I thought in like year 4 had won like 14 games. I don't remember exactly but yeah some more proof there.

Don't worry though, sooner or later Houston will get in there, it may take another couple years, half-dozen years who knows but sooner or later they'll get in there like every team does at one time or another.

If you look at how the Panthers were built it was that they took great veterans and built a team around them. They into being having guys who had experience in the league and who would know how to act in most situations without as much need to get coached up. Also they were knocked off in the first rd. not making it to the championships. Once those veterans began leaving the team though they were gradually worse. Also you look @ how Jacksonville came in with the Panthers the other teams weren't able to protect as many players as they were when the Texans came into the league. If you look at our expansion process we built around the draft. Around rookies and our situation was different than previous expansions. I don't blame Capers for everything, but he was a driving force in our sad existence. After all those yrs. of futility this yr. will show alot of progress, I think by the end of the yr. we will be firmly somewhere in the middle of the pack.

[datchapin]

Oh, all-time then yeah, I mean definetely the Lions and Cardinals. I mean hands down. But in the last 5 years I meant, I stick to the Browns, Texans, Lions, Raiders, Niners as the worst in the last 5 years, but if I had even said the Niners or Raiders were the worst of all-time then I would have about as much football knowledge a 2-by-4.

Dude, you can't lump the Texans in that group yet, they've only been around for FOUR yrs. this is their fifth yr.

[Sorrow-Tear's Champion]

Now that Arizona has someone who will actually make good decisions they could turn it around soon. All they have to do is keep their young talent they're building up. Look at Cincinnati, that's where football careers went to die for the longest. Get a real coach, make some good draft picks and now people can't shut up about them. as for Detroit as long as Matt Millens is in charge, their fans better hope for an act of god.

[Gyarados]

Alright, I'll give the Texans another year then. ^_^ Although I will take into consideration they are in the same division as Indy and Jacksonville who they play 2 times a year each, and a Titans team who will only get better with time. So they could easily lose 6 games a year just due to a tough division. =/

Arizona I think is going to be much better this year. If Warner is consistent, and Edge plays well combined with Boldin and Fitzgerald their offense looks good and if their defense can just play average even then Zona should win 9-10 games this year, but I still have a feeling the magic number may only be 8.

[Stealth Tomato]

Dude, you can't lump the Texans in that group yet, they've only been around for FOUR yrs. this is their fifth yr.
Four years of utter futility is pretty bad. They should at least be getting SOMETHING together, but they keep ignoring the offensive line.

[datchapin]

Four years of utter futility is pretty bad. They should at least be getting SOMETHING together, but they keep ignoring the offensive line.

Are you serious?! They may have ignored the line before, but this yr. I can tell you that they didn't and the line is much improved. You can look at the stat line, but they don't tell the whole story. You think them giving up five sacks is indicative of the line play. I guess I'll have to break them down for you. First sack came against a missed block by our running back, the one that got traded right after that game. Second and third sacks came in an empty backfield formation where they had to linebackers blitz the weakside. I mean there wasn't even a TE or a RB to help out in that situation, the Texans set themselves up for that one no matter how talented the line is in that situation it's almost impossible to avoid the sack because they didn't have cushion on the receivers at the line. fourth sack was given up to Kearse by our TE. All in all considering the Eagles were completely healthy and J.Johnson's scheming our line only gave up one sack that they could have prevented. two if you consider our TE, but to say our line this yr. is the same as in yrs. past is wrong. We drafted two tackles, Winston who was considered elite before his injury and fell due to it and Spencer who many considered the best tackle behind D'brick. We also brought in Flannagan from GB and got a real coach for the line in Mike Sherman. I mean c'mon don't just say that kind of thing about my team without being well informed about it. Utter futility is a really strong word to use, considering we lost to NE in overtime by a field goal in our third yr. and swept the Jags in that same yr. I mean if you just look at the stats it's easy to come away with that conclusion, but if you actually paid attention to my team it would be easy to see they are better than their record indicates.

[Powdered Toast Man]

Manning was a beast today!!!
Run still needs work though.
Colts 2-0

[Rukia]

The Saints are a little surprising. Don't get me wrong, they beat 2 crappy teams; but I didn't expect them to do this well to start the season. Bush looked pretty good despite personal problems that could have easily been a large distraction. It's a good boost for the city of New Orleans...even if they can't fill the seats.

[Gyarados]

That Saints/Falcons game next week should be good.

[Kisame]

Woot saints win again.

Cant remember us being on a winning streak. EVER!!!!!!!

Goooooooo Saints

[Stealth Tomato]

Are you serious?! They may have ignored the line before, but this yr. I can tell you that they didn't and the line is much improved. You can look at the stat line, but they don't tell the whole story. You think them giving up five sacks is indicative of the line play. I guess I'll have to break them down for you. First sack came against a missed block by our running back, the one that got traded right after that game. Second and third sacks came in an empty backfield formation where they had to linebackers blitz the weakside. I mean there wasn't even a TE or a RB to help out in that situation, the Texans set themselves up for that one no matter how talented the line is in that situation it's almost impossible to avoid the sack because they didn't have cushion on the receivers at the line. fourth sack was given up to Kearse by our TE. All in all considering the Eagles were completely healthy and J.Johnson's scheming our line only gave up one sack that they could have prevented. two if you consider our TE, but to say our line this yr. is the same as in yrs. past is wrong. We drafted two tackles, Winston who was considered elite before his injury and fell due to it and Spencer who many considered the best tackle behind D'brick. We also brought in Flannagan from GB and got a real coach for the line in Mike Sherman. I mean c'mon don't just say that kind of thing about my team without being well informed about it. Utter futility is a really strong word to use, considering we lost to NE in overtime by a field goal in our third yr. and swept the Jags in that same yr. I mean if you just look at the stats it's easy to come away with that conclusion, but if you actually paid attention to my team it would be easy to see they are better than their record indicates.
Four more today. Explain.

[Sorrow-Tear's Champion]

Another idiot moment from a receiver, Roy Willams of Detroit guarantees victory. Well you should at least make sure your team can back you up. Not only that he says it's stupid they didn't beat Seattle, they were so close to scoring 40 points on them. Now maybe it's just my math but 6 points seem a long way from 40 points. I guess he's been hanging with Charles Rogers a little to much.

[Gyarados]

Nah, I think he's been hanging out with Sheed too much. Sheed does that all the time too, it's a Detroit thing it seems to guarantee victory.

[Vince Johnson]

atleast rasheed has won something

[Gyarados]

atleast rasheed has won something

Yup, exactly. The Lions though I think played well against Seattle and perhaps it just got to some of the players heads too much that if they could hold Seattle to not scoring that they could beat the Bears but that was obviously not the case.

Poor Lions, I have a feeling it'll be another long season for them and their fans.

[datchapin]

Four more today. Explain.

Since it's you. J/K. First play was just the worst call imaginable. You got Mathis on that side who has the tendency to run upfield all the time and you call a roll out to his side. I hate to say it, but we basically asked for that sack. Play calling. Second sack, was pretty much Carr. I dunno what he was doing, but he was tapped on the foot and fumbled (still pissed at that play) then when he recovered he was hit for the sack. The other two I can accept as line breakdown.

[datchapin]

I'll break it down better once I re-watch the game, but I haven't yet. This is just from what I remember.

[Redemption]

Both Denver and Kansas City don't even deserve to win that game. Thats gotta be the worst Conference performance of trash on both sides of the ball I have even seen. What has happened to the AFC West? Its becomming one-sided for the Chargers pretty quick.

[Sorrow-Tear's Champion]

Is Nick Saban ever going to get the concept of how to throw a challenge flag. His almost uncaring release is going to really cost them big time if he doesn't figure out people have to see the flag to review the play.

[Kisame]

redskins got ranned over.

[Redemption]

Is Nick Saban ever going to get the concept of how to throw a challenge flag. His almost uncaring release is going to really cost them big time if he doesn't figure out people have to see the flag to review the play.

Its not entirely Nick Sabans fault, its more of a complete lack luster performance of the offensive line. Miami's offense was overated from the get go in the preseason, the Bills just put it back in perspective.

[Rukia]

Its becomming one-sided for the Chargers pretty quick.I agree. Denver, Oakland, and Kansas City look terrible. How long before Denver switches to Cutler. Plummer obviously doesn't have anything. The guy has always been too erratic.

[Terrence Urameshi]

MY PACKERS!!!!

[Orga777]

I think you just set a record for bullshit football cliches in a paragraph by a non-sportswriter. They have a good coach and a good quarterback, which are both obvious, and you said nothing else of any value in that entire thing.

Don't need to say anything else either. Tom Brady knows how to win. He can make unknown players good in a heart beat. I guarentee then at least 10 wins in this season which I think will be enough to get them the division since Miami has started to show that they really are not that good at all.

First off, thanks for being vindictive. I know it's a huge insult to your precious Patriots for anyone to even consider that they might not roll over teams to the playoffs and win the Super Bowl every year, but at least make your anger less obvious by not immediately insulting my team.

I could care LESS about the Patriots actually.:P Just stating the obvious facts. Do not right off a team that has won three Super Bowls in the last five years. Especially if they still have a decent defense, the best quarterback, and the best coach in the league. And the running game they have is still extremely good. And it isn't an insult to your team. It is just that they are in a harsh division with Cincinnati and Baltimore. Only one of them can win it, and in the AFC I only see one of the other teams in the playoffs. Compared to Cinci and Baltimore, Pitt while good did not play good enough for me to say they are a contender again this year.

Also, I don't know if you're aware of this, but Charlie Batch was our quarterback against Miami. Charlie Batch is not our franchise quarterback. Detroit didn't even want him. If we can beat a Miami team that is expected by many to make the playoffs using a reject quarterback, I'm thinking we'll be more than okay once our top-five quarterback returns to the field.

To tell you the truth, Miami stinks. They couldn't even score against Buffalo for crying out loud. Personally I think they did it with smoke and mirrors at the end of season last year. And unlike a over-hyped Miami team, Jacksonville has shown they can comeback and beat good teams like they did against Dallas. Not to mention they still had a 12-4 record last year and did beat the Steelers. Also it is still unknown whether Roethlisburger will play tonight. And if he doesn't they are going to be in serious trouble.

[Rukia]

How are the Vikings winning? I can look at stats all day, but it doesn't really tell me the story. I expected them to be one of the worst teams in the NFL this year, but they have beaten two teams that made the playoffs last year. Don't they have an over-the-hill QB? Doesn't he have 0 decent WR's to throw to? Will someone that has actually watched them play explain this to me. (Yesterday's game wasn't on tv here and I missed their monday night game.)

[Potentialflip]

How are the Vikings winning? I can look at stats all day, but it doesn't really tell me the story. I expected them to be one of the worst teams in the NFL this year, but they have beaten two teams that made the playoffs last year. Don't they have an over-the-hill QB? Doesn't he have 0 decent WR's to throw to? Will someone that has actually watched them play explain this to me. (Yesterday's game wasn't on tv here and I missed their monday night game.)

Let's just say the two teams they played shot themselves on the foot. Either on dumb back-to-back penalties (Redskins) or a bonehead lateral try (Panthers). Both instances caused Vikings to gain momentum.

[Gyarados]

Yeah San Diego already has that division in the bag. I predicted them to win the division at the start and people thought I was a moron.

[JB the Jedi]

Let's Go Bears !!!!!
2-0 Baby

Keep it up Grossman

[Arroniro Arleri]

Steelers better win tonight!

[Giorno Giovanna]

Ha, my falcons are 2-0, BABY! The NFL's best rushing attack is just getting sicker and sicker by the week. Man, if the passing game can improve, this team will be tough to stop with the speed they have on offense and their defense is back to 2004 and probably be better once Abe comes back.

My Eagles played well despite the loss and were the better team and have proven that they are back. They lost, yes, but we straight up dominated the Giants and if it wasn't for stupid approach to the second half and lack of killer instinct, we would have won. But no, because Manning got that incredible comeback especially on a VERY LUCKY td to Buresss (that play was all Buress), all people are going to remember is Eli Manning and forget that my boy McNabb outplayed the young boy for three straight quarters and would have probably gone for 400 yds if Reid didn't leave his brain in the locker room in the second half.

Believe or not, the Eagles are for real and if we can learn to close out games and go for the jugular, we will back in the playoffs. BTW, we are still strong against the run since we did shut down Barber and the running game.


For me, here are my top teams in the league:

1. Falcons: I gotta with the dirty birds and not only because I live in Atlanta. Their new option hybrid scheme is just killing people and with this much speed on offense, I just don't see to many teams shutting them down or keeping them from getting over 150 yds except for the Ravens, Steelers, Bears and Chargers because of their great speed and tackling in their LB positions. Plus, they did it against two very good defenses, are 2 up in their division, and their defense is playing hard, shutting down the run. If they win against the Saints and keep on rolling, I don't see the other teams catching up in the NFC.

2. Steelers: Until they lose, they are the team to beat in the AFC and the only reason why I have them #2 is because we have to see them play tonight to see if they have not been hit with the SB Hangover. If they win against a tough Jaguars team, then I will put them at #1. Their defense has not lost a step yet, but their offense is a bit questionable.

3. Ravens: The Ravens' D is back and is in full-revenge mode and that is a bad thing for the NFL. Ed Reed and McAlister have made it hard for opposing quarterbacks to throw since they blanket their entire side of the field and Ray Lewis is playing like a man possessed. Also, they finally have a qb that can help their defense rest and manage the game and Jamal Lewis is showing glimpses of his old self. Their game against the Steelers will define their season and playoff hopes but if the first two weeks are any indication, this team will be very scary against anyone.

4. Eagles: They lost to a very good Giants team but people have to remember, they dominated this game. Eight sacks, 451 yds on offense and 300+ on the air. The Eagles look like they're back in the playoff hunt and McNabb is looking like his 2004 form again and that is not a good thing for the rest of the division. To me, The Giants are the only threat in their division with the Redskins spluttering all over and the Cowboys still not living up to the hype, especially T.O. If the Eagles avoid mistakes like they did Sunday, they're gonna be tough to stop, especially McNabb who is playing with a man on a mission to destroy every secondary he faces which is good for me.smile-big

5. Bears: That's right, the damn bears. Their defense is solid as usual but what is suprising is their offense. Yes, they played against two bad team but you have to remember that the Bears struggled to put up 30 points against almost anyone last year and for them to put two back to back games with 25 or more points is damn impressive to me. Even they don't repeat this performance against tougher opponents, with a division that weak as the NFC North and with their stellar defense, they can win the North easily and if their offense can stay consistent and help their defense rest, this team will be REALLY GOOD.

6. Chargers: Man, this is a scary team right here. Their defense is pkaying lights out, especially their front seven, and then the offense is clicking on. LT is playing good and Rivers is playing like I thought he would, not trying to do hard but do enough to win the game and with a back like LT, I don't see that being too much of a problem. With the other teams in the division struggling, I don't see why they can't win the division this year.

7. Seahawks: Balanced as usual, and will probably make the playoffs because they play in such a okay division, but one has to question whether or not they're having bad luck this year because Hasselback is not playing as good as last year and Alexander is not dominating games like he did last year. Trouble in paradise, maybe, but with their defense being solid and their division is a winnable one so I see the Seahawks staying on top.

8. Bengals: The Bengals already have a great offense with Rudi playing lights out, Palmer throwing the ball and #85 doing his thing. However, it's been the defense that has actually been playing well and if they can keep this up, they will pose a bigger threat to the Ravens and Steelers in what figures to be the tighest three-team race throughout the season.

9. Colts: The Colts are playing good with Manning just destroying secondaries like child's play and they are also benefitting with playing in a weak division that only consist of one contender, and that is the Jaguars. But one has to ask how long they can keep playing without a running game. Sooner or later, they will run into a very powerful defense and if they can't run, then Manning will have to pass all day, and pretty much opens the door for any good defense with great speed to just blitz Manning all day long.

10. Vikings: They're good (Sorry, but I am getting tired of typing:P )

[Kisame]

so when the saints beat the falcons next week and are 3-0 does that mean they're the best?

[Stealth Tomato]

knows how to win.
He can make unknown players good
Stupid sportswriter cliches that don't mean anything.
I guarentee then at least 10 wins in this season which I think will be enough to get them the division since Miami has started to show that they really are not that good at all.
They could get the division with about seven wins, which is convenient because I doubt they'll get much more.

I could care LESS about the Patriots actually.:P Just stating the obvious facts. Do not right off a team that has won three Super Bowls in the last five years.
Sorry, they're not the Super Bowl team anymore. They've lost nearly every starter, and most of their coordinators, since they won the Super Bowl. I can write them off whenever I want.

Especially if they still have a decent defense,
:kukuku
the best quarterback, and the best coach in the league.
I'll give you those, although it would help if they were good in the first half too.
And the running game they have is still extremely good.
Against the Jets and the Bills, it better be good. They're not exactly known for interior strength.

And it isn't an insult to your team. It is just that they are in a harsh division with Cincinnati and Baltimore. Only one of them can win it, and in the AFC I only see one of the other teams in the playoffs. Compared to Cinci and Baltimore, Pitt while good did not play good enough for me to say they are a contender again this year.
So the team that won by 11 with the backup quarterback is most certainly worse than the team whose quarterback has less than 6 yards per attempt and just completed less than half his passes against the fearsome Raiders defense? I don't quite follow.

To tell you the truth, Miami stinks. They couldn't even score against Buffalo for crying out loud. Personally I think they did it with smoke and mirrors at the end of season last year. And unlike a over-hyped Miami team, Jacksonville has shown they can comeback and beat good teams like they did against Dallas.
I don't think that thorough a judgment can really be trusted from one game.

Not to mention they still had a 12-4 record last year and did beat the Steelers.
They beat the Tommy Maddox-led Steelers in overtime after Maddox fumbled from inside field goal range and then threw a pick for the winning touchdown. I don't think even Charlie Batch can pull that one off.

Also it is still unknown whether Roethlisburger will play tonight. And if he doesn't they are going to be in serious trouble.
Serious trouble, as in it will actually be a good game.

[Stealth Tomato]

1. Falcons: I gotta with the dirty birds and not only because I live in Atlanta. Their new option hybrid scheme is just killing people and with this much speed on offense, I just don't see to many teams shutting them down or keeping them from getting over 150 yds except for the Ravens, Steelers, Bears and Chargers because of their great speed and tackling in their LB positions. Plus, they did it against two very good defenses, are 2 up in their division, and their defense is playing hard, shutting down the run. If they win against the Saints and keep on rolling, I don't see the other teams catching up in the NFC.
They beat the Steve Smith-less Panthers (Delhomme looks lost without him) and the vaunted Bucs. Their offensive line is good, as is Warrick Dunn, but I'm nowhere near convinced about Vick. He still throws way too many balls into the middle of nowhere.
The reason the option doesn't work in the pros is because defenses are stronger and faster. Let's wait until the Falcons face a team with actual linebackers and cornerbacks to call them the best. Carolina's strength is their defensive line, which explains why they got manhandled... the Falcons' offensive line is one of the best.
By the way, last year's Falcons started 6-2 before a huge collapse. What did the first six teams they beat have in common? Bad defenses.
College time is over. Only real football now.

[Giorno Giovanna]

so when the saints beat the falcons next week and are 3-0 does that mean they're the best?

Ha, no they won't because they will not beat the falcons unless the falcons smoke heavy shit right before the game or the saints' defense gains some heavy speed and becomes an elite defense in one week which won't happen.

I did put the falcons on top because they dominated two teams that swept them and most picked by the experts to battle for the division and one of them was a popular SB pick. Also, I don't see alot of teams stopping their rushing attack and I know the Saints ain't one of them. Besides, I did say that if Steelers go out there and win convincingly that I will put them back on top and the only reasons why the others are not on top is because besides the Eagles, they have not played really good teams.

[Arroniro Arleri]

Sword is right. I think people are jumping the gun a bit.

Saints have yet to play a playoff caliber team.

Until they do I'm withholding judgement.

[Giorno Giovanna]

They beat the Steve Smith-less Panthers (Delhomme looks lost without him) and the vaunted Bucs. Their offensive line is good, as is Warrick Dunn, but I'm nowhere near convinced about Vick. He still throws way too many balls into the middle of nowhere.
The reason the option doesn't work in the pros is because defenses are stronger and faster. Let's wait until the Falcons face a team with actual linebackers and cornerbacks to call them the best. Carolina's strength is their defensive line, which explains why they got manhandled... the Falcons' offensive line is one of the best.
By the way, last year's Falcons started 6-2 before a huge collapse. What did the first six teams they beat have in common? Bad defenses.
College time is over. Only real football now.


This is prelimary and I did say that they will run into trouble if they face teams that have great LB speed and tackling ability like the Ravens, Steelers, Bears, and Chargers which I mentioned in my post.

So now the Panthers and Buccaners have horrible defenses? So Ken Lucas and Chris Gamble are horrible corners? What about the Bucs? Didn't they have Vick's number for the last few years? Don't they have a good secondary and a great LB in Brooks and speed and weren't they able to contain Vick and the running game of the Falcons? And even with Smith, I doubt the Panthers would have won the game with the way Abe molesting Delhomme and the defense stuffing the run. Maybe you don't like the Falcons and that is okay since I do prefer the Eagles over them anyway, but don't try to discredit their wins by downgrading the teams they beaten.

Besides, this is only based on Week 2. Two weeks and in those two weeks, the Falcons have looked sick whether you like them or not, and to win two divisional games against two teams that were very good and had the #1 and # 3 defense is impressive.

Calm down, geez you're acting like this is my final power ranking. This will change dramatically as the season goes on and the Falcons eventually will not be #1. Just that they have played against two good teams compared to the others and have dominated them both. Thus, for this week, they deserve to be on top. After week 3, who knows. If you're gonna bitch about them in my ranking, fine I'll lower them but give them credit when credit is due.

[Gyarados]

Sorry but I think Atlanta ain't the best. I hate to disagree, but I'm strongly considering picking the Saints in an upset against Atlanta next week. But nah I see Atlanta winning 11 tops, they still have some holes they need to fill combined with consistency to get to the top.

[Giorno Giovanna]

Sorry but I think Atlanta ain't the best. I hate to disagree, but I'm strongly considering picking the Saints in an upset against Atlanta next week. But nah I see Atlanta winning 11 tops, they still have some holes they need to fill combined with consistency to get to the top.


Understandable considering the emotions riding in this game since it is the Saints' homecoming game after a disatrous year for New Orleans and how important it is for both teams but I see Atlanta pulling out because it means more for them than the Saints. The Saints are already overachieving but the Falcons need this game a bit more because they could be three games ahead in their division and considering how vital divisional leads and wins are for playoff seeds so I see this game to be really close.


To me the key will be whether the Saints can slow down the Atlanta's running game. If they can and I don't think they can because of their lack of personnel speed, then they can keep the game close.

If the Falcons get anywhere near 120-150 by the first half, this game is over since all Atlanta will have to do is play ball control and agressive defense.

This game will be decided by who wants it more and who is willing to make the big plays on both side of the ball. I just hope it's alot closer than the other two games for the Falcons.

And you are right, the Falcons are not perfect and despite how my rankings are, the top five can easily be switched around since they each have their own flaws and are playing really good football.

I just hope my Eagles can unleash their frustration on the Niners and smack them back to the cold hard truth of reality.

[Gyarados]

Speaking of the Eagles I can't believe what happened yesterday, although I give the Giants credit for being resilient and showing some heart on the road in a hostile environment.

But yeah, if the Falcons can open up the field with the running game and whatnot, I do admit, chances are the got it in the bag. But the emotions, crowd, momentum is for the Saints here no doubt about it.

It will be a close game though most likely for sure. I see this game coming down to a field goal or something possibly.

[Giorno Giovanna]

Speaking of the Eagles I can't believe what happened yesterday, although I give the Giants credit for being resilient and showing some heart on the road in a hostile environment.

But yeah, if the Falcons can open up the field with the running game and whatnot, I do admit, chances are the got it in the bag. But the emotions, crowd, momentum is for the Saints here no doubt about it.

It will be a close game though most likely for sure. I see this game coming down to a field goal or something possibly.

The worst thing is, nobody is talking about how good the Eagles were and how McNabb was playing lights out. It's about the Giants and fucking Eli Manning because they came back.

God, that piss me off. I am telling you this will not happen again. They have no answer for D-Mac or the rest of the offense, Kearse went down but our d-line rotation is deep and destroyed their o-line and we shut down Barber and if we play with killer instinct from the get-go, the next game will not be close and btw we will crush the Niners.

[Gyarados]

Niners? Oh fuck yeah man. You guys will crush them for sure.
But yeah I mean the Eagles played well but people seem to be more interested in talking about their collapse rather then how they controlled over 3/4 the game.

[Potentialflip]

Niners? Oh fuck yeah man. You guys will crush them for sure.
But yeah I mean the Eagles played well but people seem to be more interested in talking about their collapse rather then how they controlled over 3/4 the game.
Will this be Alex Smith's graduation or will it be his wake up call? Will the Eagles rebound after a loss or will they fold? Interesting story there.

Whether you like it or not that is how they like to talk about it. It doesn't matter what the hell you did 3/4 of the game. It doesn't. Heck I'm sure Coach Reid would say the same thing. It doesn't matter how well a team plays if they don't get a win something went wrong. Remember its all about getting the Win. The great play for 40 minutes is nullified if you can't finish it off.

[Giorno Giovanna]

Will this be Alex Smith's graduation or will it be his wake up call? Will the Eagles rebound after a loss or will they fold? Interesting story there.

Whether you like it or not that is how they like to talk about it. It doesn't matter what the hell you did 3/4 of the game. It doesn't. Heck I'm sure Coach Reid would say the same thing. It doesn't matter how well a team plays if they don't get a win something went wrong. Remember its all about getting the Win. The great play for 40 minutes is nullified if you can't finish it off.


I understand that, but jesus, they don't need to act like Eli overshadowed McNabb and he's now an elite qb. They won the game, that is true, but the Eagles are still the better team, just that the coaching staff decided to let up, thus letting the Giants back in this game.

I don't mind the Giants, I respect and I congratulate them for the win but don't forget that the Eagles proved that they are not the bottom feeder of the NFC East like many thought they would by destroying the Giants in everything except the scoreboard.

Anyway, it's all in the past, and we have a chance to let out some of that frustration on the Niners. Let's go Eagles! KILL THEM!

[Kisame]

well vash looks like pits going be skunked tonight <.<

[Arroniro Arleri]

Damn, and I thought the Steelers had this one.

I wasn't expecting a shutout.

[Giorno Giovanna]

I can't believe the Jaguars are just manhandling the Steelers that way on both sides of the field. The Jaguars may be for real this year. Something tells me Big Ben is not a 100% or they just decided to stunk it up tonight. I knew this game would be close but dang, this is a totally one-sided game despite the score.


EDIT: HOLY CRAP, THE STEELERS JUST GOT SHUT OUT!

The Jaguars are for real. First Dallas, now Pittsburgh. They're gonna be tough.

BTW, Rashean Mathis is officially a top 3 corner in the NFL. He single-handedly killled the Steelers.

[Arroniro Arleri]

They got Indy next week.

If they beat them they'll really be for real.

edit: Steelers better win against the Bengals.

[Stealth Tomato]

I can't believe the Jaguars are just manhandling the Steelers that way on both sides of the field. The Jaguars may be for real this year. Something tells me Big Ben is not a 100% or they just decided to stunk it up tonight. I knew this game would be close but dang, this is a totally one-sided game despite the score.
Both sides of the field? Hardly. The defense held them to nine points, three of them on a five-yard drive. They forced five punts and a turnover on downs, not including the punt when they were just running out the clock near the end. Until they started backing into that weird deep zone in the second half, they had Jacksonville in absolute lockdown.
LeBeau will take another week to work on his blitz schemes (his usually crafty blitzes were often painfully obvious before the snap), and Roethlisberger will take a week to actually practice with the offense. The offensive woes were mostly Roethlisberger overthrowing people and Whisenhunt being conservative because Roethlisberger was overthrowing people.
A shameful loss, but we'll be back with a vengeance.

BTW, Rashean Mathis is officially a top 3 corner in the NFL. He single-handedly killled the Steelers.
By picking off a pass thrown right to him because of a blown slant route by Santonio Holmes and another thrown right at him five feet over Cedrick Wilson's head? Those were bad mistakes by the Steelers, not great plays by Mathis.

[Potentialflip]

Wow I got that upset pick. I just didn't think they would have been shut out. I believed Ben was going to be a little rusty and so on. Jaguars are starting to gain some respect. Next week they have the Colts. They seem to be defensively well matched up against them. The question would be can the Jags offense score the points. I currently give them a shot. I only give Colts the edge simply because they are at home and they always seem to find a way to score.

[Arroniro Arleri]

A shameful loss, but we'll be back with a vengeance
I pray you are right....but going against Cinncinati and that offense seems tough. Troy, Porter, and the rest of that defense better step their game up.

[Stealth Tomato]

I pray you are right....but going against Cinncinati and that offense seems tough. Troy, Porter, and the rest of that defense better step their game up.
How about 340-pound Big Casey Hampton up the middle against the backup center?

Roethlisberger won't be nearly this bad next week. He is 22-4 in his career, and 1-2 in his first game back from injury. He didn't even have a full week to practice with the team, and he supposedly had a fever.

Also, the defense was pretty damn good. Gave up almost nothing in the first half, and even in the second when they switched to the bizarre ten-yard cushion by the CBs they only gave up six points on actual drives (one FG came on a drive of 5 yards). And this despite spending over 37 minutes and 70 offensive plays on the field.

[Redemption]

How about 340-pound Big Casey Hampton up the middle against the backup center?

Roethlisberger won't be nearly this bad next week. He is 22-4 in his career, and 1-2 in his first game back from injury. He didn't even have a full week to practice with the team, and he supposedly had a fever.

Also, the defense was pretty damn good. Gave up almost nothing in the first half, and even in the second when they switched to the bizarre ten-yard cushion by the CBs they only gave up six points on actual drives (one FG came on a drive of 5 yards). And this despite spending over 37 minutes and 70 offensive plays on the field.

Vash, the ever ending steel curtain optimist ^_^ Charlie Batch should have played that game from the start, Ben had an appendectomy on the 3rd for gods sake, he should of been sidelined! I had my appendix removed and let me tell you it takes alot longer then 2 weeks. Ben was grimacing the whole game, he was playing with fire and was very lucky he didn't rip open his internal sutures or even worse rupture his bowl or lymphatic tissue.

Jags had their number this week plain and simple! They wont at Steelers home however. Steelers will probably win next week with or without a healthy Ben.

They got Indy next week.

If they beat them they'll really be for real.

edit: Steelers better win against the Bengals.

If the Jags beat the Colts at home in Indy yes they would deserve respect, but I doubt very highly that the Jags could even come close to keeping up with Indy offensively. A good defense only gets you so far on Turf!

The Steelers will most likely win against the Bengals, they will be at home and Ben will be alot more settled.

[Potentialflip]

All this talk about big Ben. It is somewhat funny because last time I checked the Steelers aren't known for leaving it all out for Ben to win just to manage the game. They are a run first team. Unfortunetely for the Steelers they couldn't even put a dent on the Jaguars defense with their running game. While the Steelers D was able to not give up a six. They were runned out of the place. Taylor had an average of over 4 yards a carry. That is not good if you think about it. They were thoroughly dominated in a way I have never seen nor expected.

As for next week. They are going to need to fix that run defense because Cincy for sure is going to rely on it with the possibility of both C.J. and Houshmandzadeh questionable for the game. And if Cincy's D can slow down the run (I doubt they can duplicate what the Jags did but they have the possibility of slowing them down; Willie Parker avg 1.8 yards!! a carry) then they are in trouble because if anything Cincy's pass defense is probably as good or better than the Jags.

[Orga777]

All this talk about big Ben. It is somewhat funny because last time I checked the Steelers aren't known for leaving it all out for Ben to win just to manage the game. They are a run first team. Unfortunetely for the Steelers they couldn't even put a dent on the Jaguars defense with their running game. While the Steelers D was able to not give up a six. They were runned out of the place. Taylor had an average of over 4 yards a carry. That is not good if you think about it. They were thoroughly dominated in a way I have never seen nor expected.

Took the words right out of my mouth. Take away Pitts ability to run the ball, and force Roethlisburger to throw the ball, they will lose 7/10 times. And Cinci who managed to hold both teams the last two weeks to low running yards the Steelers are in serious trouble again next week. Luckily for them Cincinnati is banged up in some key places. Pitt should win that game.

As for J-Ville, they have been for real for a while now, just obscure. And they always play Indianapolis real well so they can easily win next week. Especially since Indi's running game is already non-existent and now the Jags can concentrate on the pass more.

[Giorno Giovanna]

.

As for J-Ville, they have been for real for a while now, just obscure. And they always play Indianapolis real well so they can easily win next week. Especially since Indi's running game is already non-existent and now the Jags can concentrate on the pass more.


This will be a real test to see if the Colts are really gonna be in trouble w/o Edge. The Jaguars front seven is very good with the two monsters up the middle and a very underrated linebacking core. The Colts faced the Texans and the running game was non-existant but the Texans' defense is sorry. Now they're up against a very tough defense that has always played them tough and now with their lack of a running game, can Manning withstand the pressure the Jags will apply.

[JediJaina]

That was a tough Steelers-Jags game.

I'm still reeling from the horrible Bucs-Falcons game. No O-line, shitty QB, and the defense collapsed. Brooks interception for TD got called back. It's going to be a long season.

[Stealth Tomato]

All this talk about big Ben. It is somewhat funny because last time I checked the Steelers aren't known for leaving it all out for Ben to win just to manage the game. They are a run first team.
You seem to be stuck in 2004. Here, let me pull you out.
Despite having the highest rush percentage in the league last year, they actually threw the ball on almost exactly 50% of first-half snaps. However, in the second half, they ran nearly three times as often as they passed, mostly due to huge leads thanks to Mr. Roethlisberger. They began the playoff game in Indianapolis with seven passes and three runs and the game after in Denver with seven passes, three runs, and a reverse.
In the first half, the Steelers are a balanced offense. In the second, with a two-score or better lead, they run the ball to death.

While the Steelers D was able to not give up a six. They were runned out of the place. Taylor had an average of over 4 yards a carry. That is not good if you think about it. They were thoroughly dominated in a way I have never seen nor expected.
Nine points can never be "dominating". The Jaguars never touched the end zone, and only entered the red zone twice, and never even got to first-and-goal. Note that I am not including the drive that started at the Pittsburgh 2 at the end of the game, because that's not exactly the defense's fault.

As for next week. They are going to need to fix that run defense because Cincy for sure is going to rely on it with the possibility of both C.J. and Houshmandzadeh questionable for the game.
They held Ronnie Brown to 2 yards per carry, and Taylor had a good, but not great, 4.1 yards per rush. I somehow don't see the rushing defense as a major problem. Also, Taylor had only 2 yards per carry in the first half, and gained most of his second-half yards on the outside. The defensive line is as stout as ever.

And if Cincy's D can slow down the run (I doubt they can duplicate what the Jags did but they have the possibility of slowing them down; Willie Parker avg 1.8 yards!! a carry) then they are in trouble because if anything Cincy's pass defense is probably as good or better than the Jags.
I don't think the Jaguars' pass defense was the problem. Roethlisberger definitely showed the problems of a lack of practice, throwing most passes too high and hesitating too long. He'll be far better after a full week to work with the offense.

[Stealth Tomato]

Took the words right out of my mouth. Take away Pitts ability to run the ball, and force Roethlisburger to throw the ball, they will lose 7/10 times. And Cinci who managed to hold both teams the last two weeks to low running yards the Steelers are in serious trouble again next week. Luckily for them Cincinnati is banged up in some key places. Pitt should win that game.
Allow me to again cite the Denver game in last year's playoffs. The Steelers ran 34 passing plays (including three scrambles and two sacks) and 30 rushes. The backs averaged 2.5 yards per carry. The score was 24-3 by halftime.
Of course, it's just a single instance, but my point is that the Steelers don't win because they run. They run because they win. Most of their running plays occur late in blowouts, which for the Steelers are quite common.

[Orga777]

You seem to be stuck in 2004. Here, let me pull you out.
Despite having the highest rush percentage in the league last year, they actually threw the ball on almost exactly 50% of first-half snaps. However, in the second half, they ran nearly three times as often as they passed, mostly due to huge leads thanks to Mr. Roethlisberger. They began the playoff game in Indianapolis with seven passes and three runs and the game after in Denver with seven passes, three runs, and a reverse.
In the first half, the Steelers are a balanced offense. In the second, with a two-score or better lead, they run the ball to death.

That is the first half. If they aren't winning in the first half and the defense forces Roethlisburger to keep throwing, he is going to make mistakes. He threw two interceptions last night to the same person in almost the same way. And lets look at some of the games where Roethlisbuger didn't throw in 2005 that they won.

Week 1
9/11 passes.
Week 2
14/21 (Decent number of passes, but compared to most of the league low)
Week 6
9/14
Week 13
13/20
Week 14
10/15
Week 15
13/20
Week 16
7/16

Now lets look at the games where he is forced to throw a lot more.
Week 3
12/28 Loss to New England
Week 7
18/30 barely beat Baltimore
Week 11
17/26 Loss to Indi

This next one is my favorite
Week 12
29/41 Loss to Cinci

Do you see the the pattern here? Force Big Ben to throw, and they lose. Last night just solidifies that point.

Nine points can never be "dominating". The Jaguars never touched the end zone, and only entered the red zone twice, and never even got to first-and-goal. Note that I am not including the drive that started at the Pittsburgh 2 at the end of the game, because that's not exactly the defense's fault.

Ever hear the saying "Bigger blow out then the score"? Because last night,
J-Ville out ran, out threw, and all around out played the Pittsburgh Steelers. They made them look bad last night. It may have been only 9 points, but the way Pitt played last night, I knew that they definitly were not going to come back from the game.

They held Ronnie Brown to 2 yards per carry, and Taylor had a good, but not great, 4.1 yards per rush. I somehow don't see the rushing defense as a major problem. Also, Taylor had only 2 yards per carry in the first half, and gained most of his second-half yards on the outside. The defensive line is as stout as ever.

So? Buffalo pretty much did that too, so that really doesn't tell me much except perhaps Brown isn't as good as people thought he was. As for Taylor, he did have a good game. 4.1 yards a rush against Pitts defense? I half expected it to be 2 yards per rush. And you keep going back to the first half. That is nice and all, but the Steelers did nothing to stop Jacksonville in the second half while on the other side Pitt continued to do nothing in the second half. What matters is the long run, and Pitt couldn't take the beating Jacksonville put on them.

I don't think the Jaguars' pass defense was the problem. Roethlisberger definitely showed the problems of a lack of practice, throwing most passes too high and hesitating too long. He'll be far better after a full week to work with the offense.

No, Ben has done that through his career when he is forced to throw the ball. He makes too many mistakes when he does. Could it be lack of practice? Sure, but J-Ville made Dallas look like chumps two weeks ago in the passing game and that same Dallas team came out and stomped Washington into the ground Sunday night. The Jags have a really good pass defense. Very underrated though.

[datchapin]

This will be a real test to see if the Colts are really gonna be in trouble w/o Edge. The Jaguars front seven is very good with the two monsters up the middle and a very underrated linebacking core. The Colts faced the Texans and the running game was non-existant but the Texans' defense is sorry. Now they're up against a very tough defense that has always played them tough and now with their lack of a running game, can Manning withstand the pressure the Jags will apply.

Why do you say that the Texans defense is sorry? Could it be that your basing that off their first two games of the season? You should do your research before making comments like that. Now on to my point, the Colts are gonna crush the Jags. The Jags best chance would be to stick with the run as much as they can, because due to Leftwich's elongated throwing motion he is gonna be setting himself up for the sacks. Peyton is gonna pick them apart same as he did us same as he did NY there's if's about it. Jags are gonna loose. I might have been different if they played in Jacksonville, but in the RCA dome they are gonna fall.

[Detri]

I feel sorry for the 49ers. The Eagles are going to put up 150 points on them this weekend, I have a feeling. :P

[Rukia]

Even if the Eagles mediocre offense set an NFL record for points in a game.... :laugh
I wouldn't feel sorry for the Niners at all. They are playing .500 football! Alex Smith even has looked decent in both of the games they played. Don't get me wrong, both Alex and San Francisco will be horrible before the season is over; but this is a good start for them regardless.

[Potentialflip]

You seem to be stuck in 2004. Here, let me pull you out.
Despite having the highest rush percentage in the league last year, they actually threw the ball on almost exactly 50% of first-half snaps. However, in the second half, they ran nearly three times as often as they passed, mostly due to huge leads thanks to Mr. Roethlisberger. They began the playoff game in Indianapolis with seven passes and three runs and the game after in Denver with seven passes, three runs, and a reverse.
In the first half, the Steelers are a balanced offense. In the second, with a two-score or better lead, they run the ball to death.
I will admit they have spread the playcalling out more than in the past. I'll give it that. But heck most people have to agree even yourself they need the run way more than the pass if they are expected to win unless it is against some mediocore team.

Nine points can never be "dominating". The Jaguars never touched the end zone, and only entered the red zone twice, and never even got to first-and-goal. Note that I am not including the drive that started at the Pittsburgh 2 at the end of the game, because that's not exactly the defense's fault.
You should listen to Cowher. Cause he thought the same thing. When the Pittsburgh offense never got into a rhythm?! While the Jaguars never got into the end zone or even 10 yards from it (I'm guessing we will omit the last drive) they controlled the ball game. When the other teams offense regardless of what the result score is pretty much controlled most of the game. And the defense not giving the Steelers any chance to get in the game. That is dominating. I'm not saying Jaguars killed the Steelers. That would have been used if the score was higher (Cause really I use my terms wisely).

They held Ronnie Brown to 2 yards per carry, and Taylor had a good, but not great, 4.1 yards per rush. I somehow don't see the rushing defense as a major problem. Also, Taylor had only 2 yards per carry in the first half, and gained most of his second-half yards on the outside. The defensive line is as stout as ever.
Nice that you mentioned week 1 stats where it is hard to really hard to say how good a defense is or isn't. Example: Tampa Bay Defense. You would think the offense blew the game against Baltimore in week 1. Then all of a sudden a team you dominated for past years somehow breaks you down. Another would be Detriot. Thought by many to be a pretty good sleeper defensive unit after they stop the number one scoring offense last year in week one to field goals. Then all of a sudden can't stop a QB who was injury prone the past two years. Since I feel happy about putting up stats. How about the Steelers Defense giving up an average of 5.2 yards per play throughout the whole game. Remember The DOLPHINS gained as much yards in week one avg 4.8 yards per play. It just so happens the defense brokedown; a coach couldn't throw the flag in time (though I doubt it would have helped: it was in the four yard line for crying out loud; but you never know); and bad timing pass from the Quarterback.

I don't think the Jaguars' pass defense was the problem. Roethlisberger definitely showed the problems of a lack of practice, throwing most passes too high and hesitating too long. He'll be far better after a full week to work with the offense.
Well it worked both ways really. Roethlisberger was hampered because of the lack of time and so on. But you should not discredit the Jags pass defense. They literally embarassed Bledsoe the week before to the point of people wondering about Tony Romo. This defense has given Peyton Manning problems despite Peyton usually ending up on top. And if you can give that guy some problems then I don't discredit that pass defense. Though I do have to say Ben could have played better but the circumstances just wouldn't let him.

[Gyarados]

Jacksonville is just wow. I even got them beating Indy next week.

[datchapin]

Jacksonville is just wow. I even got them beating Indy next week.

Whatever you're smoking, let me hit it.

[Rukia]

I think you need a good offense to beat Indy. Especially when you play them in their dome. Jacksonville is clearly an excellent defensive team, but I don't think they will score enough to win this game. Their offense is mediocre at best.

[Gyarados]

Jacksonville has some tall receivers though and Indy don't have very tall guys in their secondary. So I can see Jacksonville scoring 21 or more this game, I predict about 15-25 though. Indy will come up short but Jacksonville will hold them off enough to win I think.

People underrate Jacksonville I think.

[JediJaina]

Nice that you mentioned week 1 stats where it is hard to really hard to say how good a defense is or isn't. Example: Tampa Bay Defense. You would think the offense blew the game against Baltimore in week 1. Then all of a sudden a team you dominated for past years somehow breaks you down.

Ugh stab me through the heart. Yeah both sides of the ball for the Bucs are bad right now. The Bucs lose a defensive coach a year and I think it's starting to show.

[Kisame]

sword do you want to make a bet on the saints/falcons game?

The loser has to wear a custom avy/sig of the winners choice for a week.

[Stealth Tomato]

That is the first half. If they aren't winning in the first half and the defense forces Roethlisburger to keep throwing, he is going to make mistakes. He threw two interceptions last night to the same person in almost the same way. And lets look at some of the games where Roethlisbuger didn't throw in 2005 that they won.

Week 1
9/11 passes.
Week 2
14/21 (Decent number of passes, but compared to most of the league low)
Week 6
9/14
Week 13
13/20
Week 14
10/15
Week 15
13/20
Week 16
7/16

Now lets look at the games where he is forced to throw a lot more.
Week 3
12/28 Loss to New England
Week 7
18/30 barely beat Baltimore
Week 11
17/26 Loss to Indi

This next one is my favorite
Week 12
29/41 Loss to Cinci

Do you see the the pattern here? Force Big Ben to throw, and they lose. Last night just solidifies that point.
Okay, fair enough. Let's look at all the games last year where Ben was forced to throw 25 or more passes.
His stats come out as follows: 93/141 (66%) for 1137 yards (8.1 ypa), 9 TDs, and 6 INTs. I think that qualifies as "great passing", not "too many mistakes".

Ever hear the saying "Bigger blow out then the score"? Because last night,
J-Ville out ran, out threw, and all around out played the Pittsburgh Steelers. They made them look bad last night. It may have been only 9 points, but the way Pitt played last night, I knew that they definitly were not going to come back from the game.
It wasn't like that the entire game. In the first half, the Steelers played them almost exactly even. In the second, the defense backed the cornerbacks off the line, allowing repeated short completions of 5-10 yards and successful runs around end (CBs are critical to blowing up outside rushes, occupying valuable blockers). I can't defend the offensive or defensive playcalling, Roethlisberger was inaccurate and unconfident in his reads, and Parker went nowhere. But the defense played very well. You can''t play poor defense and hold the opponent to nine points (especially considering three came on a drive of 5 yards).

So? Buffalo pretty much did that too, so that really doesn't tell me much except perhaps Brown isn't as good as people thought he was. As for Taylor, he did have a good game. 4.1 yards a rush against Pitts defense? I half expected it to be 2 yards per rush. And you keep going back to the first half. That is nice and all, but the Steelers did nothing to stop Jacksonville in the second half while on the other side Pitt continued to do nothing in the second half. What matters is the long run, and Pitt couldn't take the beating Jacksonville put on them.
The Jaguars scored all of six second-half points, excepting drives starting from well inside field-goal range. And you say our defense was getting beaten up? We weren't getting lucky turnovers, either; every drive after Jacksonville's first ended in a third-down (or fourth-down) stop.

No, Ben has done that through his career when he is forced to throw the ball. He makes too many mistakes when he does. Could it be lack of practice? Sure, but J-Ville made Dallas look like chumps two weeks ago in the passing game and that same Dallas team came out and stomped Washington into the ground Sunday night. The Jags have a really good pass defense. Very underrated though.
Their pass defense is certainly good, but I would call it neither great nor underrated. They were most certainly opportunistic on Ben's ill-advised late-game throws (both in varying degrees of desperation).

Note that Ben is now 1-2 in games returning from injury, and 26-3 in all other games. Something tells me he just needs a week.

[Arroniro Arleri]

How about 340-pound Big Casey Hampton up the middle against the backup center?

Roethlisberger won't be nearly this bad next week. He is 22-4 in his career, and 1-2 in his first game back from injury. He didn't even have a full week to practice with the team, and he supposedly had a fever.

Also, the defense was pretty damn good. Gave up almost nothing in the first half, and even in the second when they switched to the bizarre ten-yard cushion by the CBs they only gave up six points on actual drives (one FG came on a drive of 5 yards). And this despite spending over 37 minutes and 70 offensive plays on the field.

1.yeah, Hampton aswell.
2.:nod
3. What I meant was that since I think Bengals offense > Jacksonville they should have to step it up a little bit.

And whats the deal with Polamalu? He seemed off last night.

[SilverCross]

Even if the Eagles mediocre offense set an NFL record for points in a game.... :laugh
I wouldn't feel sorry for the Niners at all. They are playing .500 football! Alex Smith even has looked decent in both of the games they played. Don't get me wrong, both Alex and San Francisco will be horrible before the season is over; but this is a good start for them regardless.

i dont know about saying they will look "horrible" right now it seems were finally seeing the effects of the rebuilding from there past few years, there definetly improved upon the past 2 years where they sat last and near last place, and i dont see that again this year, (dont get me wrong, there not winning anything big, at least not this season...)

[Kisame]

http://youtube.com/watch?v=cE62E6oI_s4

ridiculously funny <.<

anyone can tell me when that happened?

[Arroniro Arleri]

^ROFL

Ah, the good ol' days back when Aaron Brooks was good.

[Kisame]

aaron brooks was never good <.<

He was better than he is now. But still bad -_-

[Rukia]

I feel bad for Aaron Brooks. It has to be annoying getting beaten and outplayed by your cousin (Michael Vick) all the time.

[Stealth Tomato]

aaron brooks was never good <.<

He was better than he is now. But still bad -_-
I don't know if I'd say bad. He's never really had the benefit of a true offensive line, but he does tend to hold onto the ball too long and makes a few too many mistakes. I'd put him over with guys like Bledsoe in the "mediocre" category.

[Giorno Giovanna]

Why do you say that the Texans defense is sorry? Could it be that your basing that off their first two games of the season? You should do your research before making comments like that. Now on to my point, the Colts are gonna crush the Jags. The Jags best chance would be to stick with the run as much as they can, because due to Leftwich's elongated throwing motion he is gonna be setting himself up for the sacks. Peyton is gonna pick them apart same as he did us same as he did NY there's if's about it. Jags are gonna loose. I might have been different if they played in Jacksonville, but in the RCA dome they are gonna fall.


First off, tell me when was the last time the Texans' defense was good? Please let me know. Their secondary allowed about 714 total yards in the air in two games. When you shut down one's running game, you should at least be able to cause a turnover or two against the passing game which they did not

Stats:

Texans Defense (Last five games)

Total yards: 344 for 2029 yards

Pass Defense: 109 for 171, 1466 yards, 10 TD's, 4 INT's

The last two games:

478 yds per game allowed

350 yds passing per game allowed

Yeah, that is really the mark of a great secondary and a great defense. No wonder the Colts and Eagles couldn't score 30-40 points and pass for over 300-400 yds.:notrust

You're right, this is only Week 3, but the idea of them getting exponentially better is extremely low



Also, look who's talking about research. The Jaguars have always played the Colts tough and have been able to move the ball against the Colts and the last time this two teams met in the dome, the Colts only won 10-3, by a TD.

Stats:

In 4 career starts vs. Ind, QB BYRON LEFTWICH has completed 65.6 pct. (80-122) of passes for 995 yards (248.8 avg.) & has 4 TDs vs. 1 INT for 98.2 passer rating … RB FRED TAYLOR has 314 rush yds (104.7 avg.) in past 3 at RCA Dome.

So, this does show you the Colts have not dominated the Jaguars like the other two teams in the division and that the Jaguars have had success moving the ball in the dome

The Colts are going to get exposed in this game. You cannot continue to win, especially in the AFC, without a running game. The gap between the teams in the AFC has gotten closer and closer every year. Even if they win against the Jaguars, people will start to notice something wrong with the Colts.

Jags will force Manning into making hurry throws and all they will have to do is blitz him and disrupt him all day. The Steelers showed that all you have to do is pressure, not even sack, just pressure Manning and he'll make mistakes. The Colts' offense is not that invincible, especially compared to last year.

The Colts' defense has an injured Freeney who may not even play, and their defense is MUCH MUCH WEAKER than the Steelers or Cowboys and if the Jaguars were able to move the ball against both teams' defenses, I don't see why they cannot against the Colts' "vaunted" defense

Also, the Jaguars are coming off two huge games and have proven to be a very physical team, which is not good against the Colts considering that the Steelers outmuscled them last year in the dome.

Trust me, this game will be closer than you expect.


@ Miyata: Sure, why not?:) I say Falcons by a FG.

[Gyarados]

I don't know if I'd say bad. He's never really had the benefit of a true offensive line, but he does tend to hold onto the ball too long and makes a few too many mistakes. I'd put him over with guys like Bledsoe in the "mediocre" category.

I agree here for sure. Not many starting Quarterbacks in today's NFL I could say truly "suck" however there are those mediocre ones and I think placing guys like Aaron Brooks and Drew Bledsoe into that category is very appropriate. I think other guys who are "mediocre" are guys like Kurt Warner, Marc Bulger, Jon Kitna, even probably Brett Favre now too.

[Arroniro Arleri]

why not? I say Falcons by a FG.
Only if they get a new kicker.:laugh

and I agree with everyone who says Aaron Brooks isn't that bad.
Brooks was one of the NFL's leaders in game-winning drives in the fourth quarter or overtime with 16 (behind only Tom Brady), including five in 2004. He set a franchise record for passing yards at 441 vs Denver in 2000, is the only Saints QB to rush for 100 yards in a game, and set a franchise record for most attempts (60) and completions (34) in a game.

[datchapin]

First off, tell me when was the last time the Texans' defense was good? Please let me know. Their secondary allowed about 714 total yards in the air in two games. When you shut down one's running game, you should at least be able to cause a turnover or two against the passing game which they did not

Stats:

Texans Defense (Last five games)

Total yards: 344 for 2029 yards

Pass Defense: 109 for 171, 1466 yards, 10 TD's, 4 INT's

The last two games:

478 yds per game allowed

350 yds passing per game allowed

Yeah, that is really the mark of a great secondary and a great defense. No wonder the Colts and Eagles couldn't score 30-40 points and pass for over 300-400 yds.:notrust

You're right, this is only Week 3, but the idea of them getting exponentially better is extremely low



Also, look who's talking about research. The Jaguars have always played the Colts tough and have been able to move the ball against the Colts and the last time this two teams met in the dome, the Colts only won 10-3, by a TD.

Stats:

In 4 career starts vs. Ind, QB BYRON LEFTWICH has completed 65.6 pct. (80-122) of passes for 995 yards (248.8 avg.) & has 4 TDs vs. 1 INT for 98.2 passer rating … RB FRED TAYLOR has 314 rush yds (104.7 avg.) in past 3 at RCA Dome.

So, this does show you the Colts have not dominated the Jaguars like the other two teams in the division and that the Jaguars have had success moving the ball in the dome

The Colts are going to get exposed in this game. You cannot continue to win, especially in the AFC, without a running game. The gap between the teams in the AFC has gotten closer and closer every year. Even if they win against the Jaguars, people will start to notice something wrong with the Colts.

Jags will force Manning into making hurry throws and all they will have to do is blitz him and disrupt him all day. The Steelers showed that all you have to do is pressure, not even sack, just pressure Manning and he'll make mistakes. The Colts' offense is not that invincible, especially compared to last year.

The Colts' defense has an injured Freeney who may not even play, and their defense is MUCH MUCH WEAKER than the Steelers or Cowboys and if the Jaguars were able to move the ball against both teams' defenses, I don't see why they cannot against the Colts' "vaunted" defense

Also, the Jaguars are coming off two huge games and have proven to be a very physical team, which is not good against the Colts considering that the Steelers outmuscled them last year in the dome.

Trust me, this game will be closer than you expect.


@ Miyata: Sure, why not?:) I say Falcons by a FG.

Okay, I can see you did your research. The Texans allowed 700 yds. of passing yds. for the season. You know who has the second most yds. allowed this season? Let me tell you. New York. No not the Jets. The Giants. You know what two teams they played. The same teams that played the Texans. You trying to tell me the Giants defense sucks? The team that has two elite DE's to pressure the QB and Arrington to stop the run suck. I'm sorry, they gave up 608 yds. through the air to the same two teams we played. That's less than a hundred yds. difference. The Texans are working under a new system, under a new coach with different personnel. Meanwhile the Giants have an established defense in other words a unit that has been working together, for several yrs. Also, you don't take into account the time of possession. Let me paint a picture, the Colts in the third quarter had the ball for 11 minutes. You watch football so you know how that much playing time can affect the defense. Also, you don't take into account that the Giants played the Colts @ home, not @ the RCA dome.

What does this mean for the Jags. They're playing at the dome. They are thin at DE if you haven't watched the Colts Peyton has shown mobility. Even if he hadn't Osi and Strahan didn't get close to him so I doubt he'll be in big trouble against the Jags. I swear to you I would not have ever expected it from him before but the guy ran out of the pocket and made completions. Their rookie RB improved and he's going to keep improving. Jacksonville may not think they have to respect the run, but if they don't they'll get burned by it. On defense Frenney isn't the only one they now have to worry about, Mathis is now their full time starter. I'm guessing you already knew this, but the guy has a motor and he will be harassing Byron all game. Also, I don't know why you think they're so improved, you think it was a big accomplishment that they beat a team who's QB had a 104 degree fever and who's top safety was running around with basically one arm. I don't consider that a huge accomplishment. Also you consider the Cowboys an elite team? Why? Because they got T.O. and the guy who was replaced by Brady throwing him the ball. I'm not going to keep disrespecting the Cowgirls, but if you know anything about football they're over rated and the Jags victory over them is not that big of a deal. The Jags are good, but not Colt-beating Good.

[Kisame]

@ Miyata: Sure, why not?:) I say Falcons by a FG.
Vash as the regular authority who visits this thread please enforce the bet if one party refuses to adhere to it after losing.

Saints are going to the superbowl this year!!



I don't know if I'd say bad. He's never really had the benefit of a true offensive line, but he does tend to hold onto the ball too long and makes a few too many mistakes. I'd put him over with guys like Bledsoe in the "mediocre" category.

look at one of his silly plays.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=cS4Gs5USLtg

I had to watch plays like that every sunday. Its like he doesnt care.

[datchapin]

Ahh, I almost forgot. You were talking about Byron's performance at the Dome. Okay hotshot here goes something for you. David Carr had 220 passing yds. with a 85% completion pct. and a 140 passer rating. You see those stats sound nice don't they. We didn't come close to winning. Byron better have a better than average outing if he expects to keep the game close. Our running game is done by comittee, but it was amazingly similar to Taylor's avg. we had 108 on the ground. Again nice argument, but stats don't always tell the whole story.

[Stealth Tomato]

Saints are going to the superbowl this year!!
They won't win eight games. I'll put a bet down on that one too.

[Stealth Tomato]

Ahh, I almost forgot. You were talking about Byron's performance at the Dome. Okay hotshot here goes something for you. David Carr had 220 passing yds. with a 85% completion pct. and a 140 passer rating. You see those stats sound nice don't they. We didn't come close to winning. Byron better have a better than average outing if he expects to keep the game close. Our running game is done by comittee, but it was amazingly similar to Taylor's avg. we had 108 on the ground. Again nice argument, but stats don't always tell the whole story.
David Carr racked up those stats in garbage time when his team was down four scores and Indianapolis switched to the Prevent defense for an entire quarter.

[Redemption]

Saints are going to the superbowl this year!!

They won't win eight games. I'll put a bet down on that one too.

I would second that bet and double down it lol. The Saints yes, are showing signs of dramatic improvement then they used to be, this however isn't saying much. They have along ways to go to even be a playoff contender let alone make it all the way!

[Stealth Tomato]

Only if they get a new kicker.:laugh
Morten Andersen, 24-year veteran, last seen on the gridiron in 2004.

[JediJaina]

I am so staying away from that kind of bet.

[Arroniro Arleri]

Morten Andersen, 24-year veteran, last seen on the gridiron in 2004. hmm. 46 years old veteran huh? I wonder if they kept Koenen. He was decent punter at least.

And I'll take you up on that bet too Miyata/x2q/Kisame XD

And anyone think the Raiders will go 0-16? With the exception of couple of games, they got a tough schedule.

[Gyarados]

Raiders will probably win 2-3 games.

[Kisame]

They won't win eight games. I'll put a bet down on that one too.
What you put at stake vash :plot

[Stealth Tomato]

hmm. 46 years old veteran huh? I wonder if they kept Koenen. He was decent punter at least.

And I'll take you up on that bet too Miyata/x2q/Kisame XD

And anyone think the Raiders will go 0-16? With the exception of couple of games, they got a tough schedule.
They kept Koenen as the punter, yes.
And thus ends the experiment in dual-role punter/placekickers.

The Raiders will not go 0-16.

[Stealth Tomato]

What you put at stake vash :plot
Avatar for a week, starting when they win the eighth or lose the ninth.

[Kisame]

its a bet $

[Gyarados]

I think there's a good chance that Oakland will beat KC at least once.

EDIT: If anything I think Green Bay is one team that has a shot to go 0-16 more then anything.

[Arroniro Arleri]

Really? Packers looked fairly good last week.

Then again looking at their schedule...you might be right.

[Rukia]

For my survivor elimination pool pick this week.....Miami will definitely defeat Tennessee.

[datchapin]

David Carr racked up those stats in garbage time when his team was down four scores and Indianapolis switched to the Prevent defense for an entire quarter.

Wrong, they played that way for one series. After he scored they went back to their starters with the exception of Freeney who left early. Also you don't rack up completion percentage in garbage time. You either do it the whole game or you don't. He had 4 incomplete passes, three of those which were in the receivers hands and were just dropped. Also, I disagree with you on the concept of garbage time, you can view it that way, but the Giants came back in "Garbage" time. McNabb schooled them all day and the way it was going it looked impossible for the Giants to win, but they did. The Colts never took out their starting offense which was what really killed us and only one series took out their starting D which didn't have a negative effect because afterwards they were ref..... you know what. Even if it was a prevent offense the Texans scored multiple times so it's not like our offense wasn't doing it's job, the defense just couldn't get off the field.

[Stealth Tomato]

Wrong, they played that way for one series. After he scored they went back to their starters with the exception of Freeney who left early. Also you don't rack up completion percentage in garbage time. You either do it the whole game or you don't. He had 4 incomplete passes, three of those which were in the receivers hands and were just dropped. Also, I disagree with you on the concept of garbage time, you can view it that way, but the Giants came back in "Garbage" time. McNabb schooled them all day and the way it was going it looked impossible for the Giants to win, but they did. The Colts never took out their starting offense which was what really killed us and only one series took out their starting D which didn't have a negative effect because afterwards they were ref..... you know what. Even if it was a prevent offense the Texans scored multiple times so it's not like our offense wasn't doing it's job, the defense just couldn't get off the field.
I define "garbage time" as any situation in which the offense is down more than one score for every four minutes remaining; i.e. two scores with under 4:00, three within 8:00, etc. Houston was therefore in garbage time by the eight-minute mark.

[chubby]

Houston is always garbage :noworry

so many teams have choked or just flat out sucked this year. what's going on in the NFL? :confused

[Gyarados]

Lets see. I'll judge each 0-2 team to see. . .

Redskins: Not a bad team at all, just had a rough start. I see them still winning half their games, but probably missing the playoffs.

Lions: Same as always, they suck and should be focusing on trying to get the #1 pick.

Packers: Awful. They should also see if they can get the #1 pick.

Bucs: Not too, too bad. But a team that's overall mediocre.

Panthers: Not a bad team at all, a good team actually. Still will probably win 10 games this year, just got to wait for Steve Smith to be healthy.

Dolphins: Decent team. Just a rough start.

Browns: Not good at all, improved but still I see them winning maybe 6 that's about it.

Texans: See Packers and Lions descriptions above.

Raiders: Randy Moss alone wont get you anywhere. May win 3 games and that's about it.

So yeah, there's my lowdown of each team that's 0-2 and if they suck or not.

[Arroniro Arleri]

Only one I disagree is the Panthers. They will not go 10-6 Mark my words!

[Gyarados]

What do you reckon they'll go? Was I too high or too low? :P

[Arroniro Arleri]

Too HIGH! I say 8-8 at best.:nod

[Gyarados]

If they're defensive line is healthy and Steve Smith is as well then they could do really well. But that doesn't seem to be what is going to happen. 8-8, 10-6, 9-7 anywhere in there I guess is a reasonable bet. Even 7-9. So 7-10 wins I guess somewhere in there. Regardless with the Bears, Seahawks, Vikings, Giants, Eagles, Cowboys I don't see the Panthers making the playoffs either way.

[Arroniro Arleri]

^agreed to that...

Only a few hours til kick off! Can't wait!

[Sorrow-Tear's Champion]

I don't know what it is but the Panthers somehow always make a run at the end of the year. I honestly see them getting one of the wildcard spots. It really depends on Steve Smith.

[Rukia]

The Panthers defense is good enough that they will play at least .500 football. They stumble out of the gate every year. They will go on a winning streak at some point and start to turn things around.