For one day at least, the Coogs played like a real football team. It was a total team effort. The defense made the trip and actually played a big part in pulling off the upset. The defense had a big part in helping overcome Case Keenum's turnovers. He lost two fumbles while scrambling and had a pass picked off and returned for a TD.
Special teams also continue to be a problem. Two kickoffs went out of bounds, one FG attempt had a high snap and the kicker missed two FG attempts. In a closer game those things can come back to bite you in the ass.
Fortunately the team didn't fold when things could have gone south. They hung tough, made plays and in the end pulled off the upset.
Way to go Coogs!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Unkle Monkee vs. the Spread - Week 3, Week 4 Picks
Week #3 Unkle Monkee vs. The Spread
What a way to start off the day. Get to work, log in to my computer and check how I did this week against the spread.
Week 1 I went 10-5 (excluded the Giants vs. 'skins) and week 2 Hurricane Ike got in the way. Week 3 wasn't so good. I went 8-8 vs. the spread.
A break down of what went right and what went wrong:
The Herm Edwards Era is probably closing in KC. Falcons had little trouble covering.
Despite the rumors swirling about Lane Kiffin's demise, the Raiders managed to cover and put an "L" on my record.
Carson Palmer made a cameo and the Bengals covered. I didn't expect the Bengals to improve against a tough Giants defense but they managed to keep the score close enough so that the Giants didn't cover.
I really thought that the Cards would win but the Redskins look like they've made weekly improvements under new head coach Jim Zorn.
I didn't think the Pats would cover against the 'fins with Matt Cassel at quarterback but I didn't think Ronnie Brown would just go off like that either. I just thought +12.5 was too much with Cassel at QB.
Taking the Bears and Panthers bit me in the ass. I thought the Bears would beat the Bucs and that the Panthers would play better against the Vikes. I lost both those games straight up. Same thing with taking the Colts and Jets. I thought the Colts would win straight up but they lost and cost me. I thought the Chargers would win but fail to cover. They routed the Jets. Ouch. The Broncos lost a big lead and failed to cover for me.
The Packers were the only home dog this week against the Cowboys. I played my gut and went with the Cowboys. If they game was in December I'd probably have taken the Pack.
This week's record: 8-8
Over all record: 18-13
Week #4 vs. the Spread
I'm trying to bounce back from last week's 8-8 showing. For reference, I'm using FoxSports.com's page showing NFL odds
Broncos(-10) @ KC. The Bronco's defense gave up 32 and 38 points against the Chargers and Saints, respectively. If the Chiefs had any kind of fire power I'd take them but they don't. Broncos
Browns(+3.5) @ Bengals - Both teams have been awful to start and both head coaches are on the hot seat. I'll bake the Bengals.
Texans(+7) @ Jaguars - Texans still looking to get on track. It won't be this week. Go with the Jaguars.
Cardinals(+1.5) @ Jets - In a game close I go with who I think will win straight up. Cardinals
49ers(+5.5) @ Saints - Line opened at +6.5 for the niners. One book has it at +4.5. They showed some life last week but I don't think the Saints fail to cover. Saints
Falcons(+6.5) @ Panthers - How will Michael Turner do against a tough Panther's defense on the road? This line has been the biggest move yet of the season. It opened at +9. I'll take the Panthers to beat the spread.
Vikings(+3) @ Titans - Vikes are already a team in flux with last week's quarterback change. I think they will win though. Vikings
Packers(+1) @ Buccaneers - Take Aaron Rodgers and the Pack to win on the road. Packers
Bills(-8) @ Rams - No contest. Bills
Chargers(-7.5) @ Raiders - Big rivalry game on the road for the Chargers. They fail to cover. Raiders
Redskin(+11) @ Cowboys - Another big rivalry game I think the Cowboys suffer a let down after a big win in Green Bay. Redskins
Eagles (-3) @ Bears - Da Bears have the defense but the offense, outside of Matt Forte, is offensive. Eagles
Ravens (+5) @ Steelers - Not contest or explanation needed. Steelers
What a way to start off the day. Get to work, log in to my computer and check how I did this week against the spread.
Week 1 I went 10-5 (excluded the Giants vs. 'skins) and week 2 Hurricane Ike got in the way. Week 3 wasn't so good. I went 8-8 vs. the spread.
A break down of what went right and what went wrong:
The Herm Edwards Era is probably closing in KC. Falcons had little trouble covering.
Despite the rumors swirling about Lane Kiffin's demise, the Raiders managed to cover and put an "L" on my record.
Carson Palmer made a cameo and the Bengals covered. I didn't expect the Bengals to improve against a tough Giants defense but they managed to keep the score close enough so that the Giants didn't cover.
I really thought that the Cards would win but the Redskins look like they've made weekly improvements under new head coach Jim Zorn.
I didn't think the Pats would cover against the 'fins with Matt Cassel at quarterback but I didn't think Ronnie Brown would just go off like that either. I just thought +12.5 was too much with Cassel at QB.
Taking the Bears and Panthers bit me in the ass. I thought the Bears would beat the Bucs and that the Panthers would play better against the Vikes. I lost both those games straight up. Same thing with taking the Colts and Jets. I thought the Colts would win straight up but they lost and cost me. I thought the Chargers would win but fail to cover. They routed the Jets. Ouch. The Broncos lost a big lead and failed to cover for me.
The Packers were the only home dog this week against the Cowboys. I played my gut and went with the Cowboys. If they game was in December I'd probably have taken the Pack.
This week's record: 8-8
Over all record: 18-13
Week #4 vs. the Spread
I'm trying to bounce back from last week's 8-8 showing. For reference, I'm using FoxSports.com's page showing NFL odds
Broncos(-10) @ KC. The Bronco's defense gave up 32 and 38 points against the Chargers and Saints, respectively. If the Chiefs had any kind of fire power I'd take them but they don't. Broncos
Browns(+3.5) @ Bengals - Both teams have been awful to start and both head coaches are on the hot seat. I'll bake the Bengals.
Texans(+7) @ Jaguars - Texans still looking to get on track. It won't be this week. Go with the Jaguars.
Cardinals(+1.5) @ Jets - In a game close I go with who I think will win straight up. Cardinals
49ers(+5.5) @ Saints - Line opened at +6.5 for the niners. One book has it at +4.5. They showed some life last week but I don't think the Saints fail to cover. Saints
Falcons(+6.5) @ Panthers - How will Michael Turner do against a tough Panther's defense on the road? This line has been the biggest move yet of the season. It opened at +9. I'll take the Panthers to beat the spread.
Vikings(+3) @ Titans - Vikes are already a team in flux with last week's quarterback change. I think they will win though. Vikings
Packers(+1) @ Buccaneers - Take Aaron Rodgers and the Pack to win on the road. Packers
Bills(-8) @ Rams - No contest. Bills
Chargers(-7.5) @ Raiders - Big rivalry game on the road for the Chargers. They fail to cover. Raiders
Redskin(+11) @ Cowboys - Another big rivalry game I think the Cowboys suffer a let down after a big win in Green Bay. Redskins
Eagles (-3) @ Bears - Da Bears have the defense but the offense, outside of Matt Forte, is offensive. Eagles
Ravens (+5) @ Steelers - Not contest or explanation needed. Steelers
NFL Week #3
Well week three is in the books and I have absolutely nothing better to do at work so I'm getting this weekly ranting, raving and observing out of the way early. You blame high gas prices on high oil? Stupid you. Blame my salary and my lack of productivity as the reason. Hey at least I'm not running office pools and other gambling out of here anymore. It took me forever to scrub all that shit off the network.
The first draft of this email had a long commentary on broadcasters and how much most of them suck and those that are damn good. Instead, I'll give you the brief version. Chris Berman's act has gotten old and tired. He hit a new low with Josh Scobee-doobie-doobie doo. I changed the channel after that only to hear it again by someone else on NBC.
On to the field of play. Well sort of. The George Costanza vs. Emperor Palpatine drama has gotten funnier. Rumors were swirling around that Al Davis was going to fire Lane Kiffin on Monday. As of Tuesday morning, Costanza still has a job. I wonder if he's having to crawl through the duct work to get into his office. (Seinfeld episode "The Voice" where George's boss want him to quit so he won't have to pay him). I'm wondering why law and order Commish Goodell hasn't stepped in. He seems bent on getting his players to behave but let's an owner and coach have their own sitcom.
With Tom Brady out and the Colts stagger, now would seem the time for the Steelers step up. After routing the Texans in week one, the Steelers have looked like anything but world beaters or the team to beat. Good news is they are 2-1 and can still fine tune their game. Only though if the offensive line that showed up against the Eagles doesn't make another appearance. They just flat out got their ass kicked by the Eagles defense.
Who gets fired first? Romeo Crennell or Marv Lewis? The Browns so far have been a massive flop for a team that has Super Bowl aspirations. The Bengals circus is in full force and Carson Palmer has looked like crap all year. They woke up from their funk but still lost to the Giants. Both are 0-3 with coaches on the hot seat. Someone has to win this game but it won't be pretty.
The Denver Broncos offense and Jay Cutler look like they are ready for prime time. Unfortunately the defense doesn't having given up 38 and 32 points the last two weeks. Fortunately they play KC twice, Oakland once more and have already beaten the Chargers once. They have the division lead for now with the Chargers probably still pissed about the missed call last week. The second match up between the teams should be a good one the last week of the season if they are both still fighting for the division lead or a playoff spot is on the line.
It's only three weeks but who would have thought Broncos, Ravens, Titans and Bills would be atop the AFC divisions and the Colts, Pats and Steelers hobbling along?
Great Sunday night win for the Cowboys against the Pack. It's fun to see them win early and often. It just makes the playoff collapse that much more fun.
It's nice to see the Chargers quit whining enough about last week's blown call to play this week. They seem to forget they still had chances to stop the Broncos on a fourth down play and on the two point conversion.
It looks like someone is finally listening to me over in Detroit. Little Boy Ford wants Matt Millen gone. But Daddy Ford runs the team and won't fire Millen. Little Boy Ford says if he were in charge Millen would be gone.
This week's Player of the Week is freaking Ronnie Brown: 1-1 passing with a TD plus 113 yards, 19 carries and 4 TDs in a complete dismantling of the Patriots.
This week's Joe Pisarcik/Carson Palmer Player of the Week is none other than Houston Texan Matt Schaub. His stat line: 17-37 for 188 yards, goose egg for TDs and 3 INTs. It's okay, according to the Houston Chronicle, Texans head coach Gary Kubiak will continue start Schaub and all will be fine.
The name has changed but the number and the play remain the same. Schaub is starting to look like the second coming of David Carr. Like Carr, Schaub has the skills and the arm to be an NFL starter. Like Carr, Schaub looks gun shy, scared and confused. Schaub looks in way over his head and makes piss poor decisions. I put the blame mostly on the coaches though. They've made no game plan adjustments to let Schaub get rid of the ball quicker to his great possession receivers of Kevin Walters, Owen Daniels and Andre Johnson. Plus Johnson has the ability to break a big one after a pass completion. They don't always have to look down field to go deep.
It's official. I've started the Fire Richard Smith campaign to go along with the Herm Edwards Sucks campaign and the Fire the Worst GM in the NFL Matt Millen campaign. Smith is the defensive coordinator for the Texans. It's time to let Smith go and let Ray Rhodes loose on the players. Smith's schemes and game planning are too soft.
If you are still reading you quiet possibly have more time on your hands than I do. That's a scary thought. At least you didn't get to hear my political tirade I just gave in the break room about the government bailout of the financial institutions and looking for a third party presidential candidate to vote for. I think I pissed one person off pretty good.
The first draft of this email had a long commentary on broadcasters and how much most of them suck and those that are damn good. Instead, I'll give you the brief version. Chris Berman's act has gotten old and tired. He hit a new low with Josh Scobee-doobie-doobie doo. I changed the channel after that only to hear it again by someone else on NBC.
On to the field of play. Well sort of. The George Costanza vs. Emperor Palpatine drama has gotten funnier. Rumors were swirling around that Al Davis was going to fire Lane Kiffin on Monday. As of Tuesday morning, Costanza still has a job. I wonder if he's having to crawl through the duct work to get into his office. (Seinfeld episode "The Voice" where George's boss want him to quit so he won't have to pay him). I'm wondering why law and order Commish Goodell hasn't stepped in. He seems bent on getting his players to behave but let's an owner and coach have their own sitcom.
With Tom Brady out and the Colts stagger, now would seem the time for the Steelers step up. After routing the Texans in week one, the Steelers have looked like anything but world beaters or the team to beat. Good news is they are 2-1 and can still fine tune their game. Only though if the offensive line that showed up against the Eagles doesn't make another appearance. They just flat out got their ass kicked by the Eagles defense.
Who gets fired first? Romeo Crennell or Marv Lewis? The Browns so far have been a massive flop for a team that has Super Bowl aspirations. The Bengals circus is in full force and Carson Palmer has looked like crap all year. They woke up from their funk but still lost to the Giants. Both are 0-3 with coaches on the hot seat. Someone has to win this game but it won't be pretty.
The Denver Broncos offense and Jay Cutler look like they are ready for prime time. Unfortunately the defense doesn't having given up 38 and 32 points the last two weeks. Fortunately they play KC twice, Oakland once more and have already beaten the Chargers once. They have the division lead for now with the Chargers probably still pissed about the missed call last week. The second match up between the teams should be a good one the last week of the season if they are both still fighting for the division lead or a playoff spot is on the line.
It's only three weeks but who would have thought Broncos, Ravens, Titans and Bills would be atop the AFC divisions and the Colts, Pats and Steelers hobbling along?
Great Sunday night win for the Cowboys against the Pack. It's fun to see them win early and often. It just makes the playoff collapse that much more fun.
It's nice to see the Chargers quit whining enough about last week's blown call to play this week. They seem to forget they still had chances to stop the Broncos on a fourth down play and on the two point conversion.
It looks like someone is finally listening to me over in Detroit. Little Boy Ford wants Matt Millen gone. But Daddy Ford runs the team and won't fire Millen. Little Boy Ford says if he were in charge Millen would be gone.
This week's Player of the Week is freaking Ronnie Brown: 1-1 passing with a TD plus 113 yards, 19 carries and 4 TDs in a complete dismantling of the Patriots.
This week's Joe Pisarcik/Carson Palmer Player of the Week is none other than Houston Texan Matt Schaub. His stat line: 17-37 for 188 yards, goose egg for TDs and 3 INTs. It's okay, according to the Houston Chronicle, Texans head coach Gary Kubiak will continue start Schaub and all will be fine.
The name has changed but the number and the play remain the same. Schaub is starting to look like the second coming of David Carr. Like Carr, Schaub has the skills and the arm to be an NFL starter. Like Carr, Schaub looks gun shy, scared and confused. Schaub looks in way over his head and makes piss poor decisions. I put the blame mostly on the coaches though. They've made no game plan adjustments to let Schaub get rid of the ball quicker to his great possession receivers of Kevin Walters, Owen Daniels and Andre Johnson. Plus Johnson has the ability to break a big one after a pass completion. They don't always have to look down field to go deep.
It's official. I've started the Fire Richard Smith campaign to go along with the Herm Edwards Sucks campaign and the Fire the Worst GM in the NFL Matt Millen campaign. Smith is the defensive coordinator for the Texans. It's time to let Smith go and let Ray Rhodes loose on the players. Smith's schemes and game planning are too soft.
If you are still reading you quiet possibly have more time on your hands than I do. That's a scary thought. At least you didn't get to hear my political tirade I just gave in the break room about the government bailout of the financial institutions and looking for a third party presidential candidate to vote for. I think I pissed one person off pretty good.
Friday, September 19, 2008
NFL Week #3 Picks
This is week three in my season long experiment on how I well or bad I can pick against the line. In the mess that was Hurricane Ike, I never got around to making week two picks. Hopefully that's the end of missing a week and no more hurricanes. The record so far is 10-5 in my favor.
For reference, I'm using NFL Odds from FOX Sports. In case of the line being different for different odds makers, I go with the majority.
Chiefs (+6) @ Falcons - This one is a tough choice. The Chiefs are that bad and Larry Johnson is very unhappy plus Herm Edwards sucks. Falcons
Raiders (+9.5) @ Bills - The Bills are a surprising team and shouldn't have a let down on the Raiders. Bills
Texans (+5) @ Titans - Until the Texans show they can play defense I can't pick them. So I'm taking the Titans
Bengals (+13.5) @ Giants - Giants have a chip on their shoulders and the defense should keep Carson Palmer's awful start in tact. Giants
Cardinals (+3) @ Redskins - Redskins look better in week two than in week one but the Cards are looking even better. Cardinals
Dolphins (+12.5) @ Patriots - I'm going out on a limb on this one. The fins are bad but we still have an unknown commidity in Matt Cassel. He's been just good enough so far and the talent of the Pats have carried them thus far. I'll take the Dolphins in this contest.
Buccaneers (+3) @ Bears - The unwritten rule is if it's an even match up, give the home team -3 points favorite. I think the Bears are a little bit better than -3 against the Bucs. I think Matt Forte and the defense do just enough to beat the spread. Bears
Panthers (+3.5) @ Vikings - A quarterback change and a hurting Adrian Peterson make this a tough pick. The Panthers are a hot team right now but the Vikings are already desperate. I'll go with the hot team right now. Panthers
Rams (+9.5) @ Seahawks - The Rams are just awful and don't look like they will improve any time soon. They are just what the doctor ordered for what ails the receiver depleted 'hawks. Seahawks
Lions (+4) @ 49ers - The Lions should be able to put up some points and the 'niners should too. I think the 49ers out shoot the Lions at home. 49ers
Saints (+5.5) @ Broncos - Jay Cutler and company are on fire. Saints are a little staggered after losing to the Redskins. I'm taking Cutler's arm and the Broncos.
Steelers (+3) @ Eagles - Donovan McNabb is healthy and the offense is firing on all cylinders. The Steeler offense stumbled last week after routing the Texans on opening day. I see no reason the Eagles will slow down. It's just a question if the defense can get that one stop they couldn't get against Dallas. I'm going with the home team in this one. This is one of the rare places where the Steeler fans won't be a vast number as visitors. Eagles
Jaguars (+5.5) @ Colts - Both teams stumbled out of the gate but Peyton Manning is the deciding factor here. Colts
Browns (+2) @ Ravens - I think two points is too close for this game. Despite a rookie quarterback, the Ravens will win by more. Ravens
Cowboys (-3) @ Packers - The Packers are the only home dog this week. It's not December so the Cowboys should win. I'm taking the Cowboys as the only road favorite this week.
Jets (+9) @ Chargers - LT is hurting, Shawn Merriman is out for the year and Brett Farve is now a Jet. They might not win but I'm taking the Jets and the points.
For reference, I'm using NFL Odds from FOX Sports. In case of the line being different for different odds makers, I go with the majority.
Chiefs (+6) @ Falcons - This one is a tough choice. The Chiefs are that bad and Larry Johnson is very unhappy plus Herm Edwards sucks. Falcons
Raiders (+9.5) @ Bills - The Bills are a surprising team and shouldn't have a let down on the Raiders. Bills
Texans (+5) @ Titans - Until the Texans show they can play defense I can't pick them. So I'm taking the Titans
Bengals (+13.5) @ Giants - Giants have a chip on their shoulders and the defense should keep Carson Palmer's awful start in tact. Giants
Cardinals (+3) @ Redskins - Redskins look better in week two than in week one but the Cards are looking even better. Cardinals
Dolphins (+12.5) @ Patriots - I'm going out on a limb on this one. The fins are bad but we still have an unknown commidity in Matt Cassel. He's been just good enough so far and the talent of the Pats have carried them thus far. I'll take the Dolphins in this contest.
Buccaneers (+3) @ Bears - The unwritten rule is if it's an even match up, give the home team -3 points favorite. I think the Bears are a little bit better than -3 against the Bucs. I think Matt Forte and the defense do just enough to beat the spread. Bears
Panthers (+3.5) @ Vikings - A quarterback change and a hurting Adrian Peterson make this a tough pick. The Panthers are a hot team right now but the Vikings are already desperate. I'll go with the hot team right now. Panthers
Rams (+9.5) @ Seahawks - The Rams are just awful and don't look like they will improve any time soon. They are just what the doctor ordered for what ails the receiver depleted 'hawks. Seahawks
Lions (+4) @ 49ers - The Lions should be able to put up some points and the 'niners should too. I think the 49ers out shoot the Lions at home. 49ers
Saints (+5.5) @ Broncos - Jay Cutler and company are on fire. Saints are a little staggered after losing to the Redskins. I'm taking Cutler's arm and the Broncos.
Steelers (+3) @ Eagles - Donovan McNabb is healthy and the offense is firing on all cylinders. The Steeler offense stumbled last week after routing the Texans on opening day. I see no reason the Eagles will slow down. It's just a question if the defense can get that one stop they couldn't get against Dallas. I'm going with the home team in this one. This is one of the rare places where the Steeler fans won't be a vast number as visitors. Eagles
Jaguars (+5.5) @ Colts - Both teams stumbled out of the gate but Peyton Manning is the deciding factor here. Colts
Browns (+2) @ Ravens - I think two points is too close for this game. Despite a rookie quarterback, the Ravens will win by more. Ravens
Cowboys (-3) @ Packers - The Packers are the only home dog this week. It's not December so the Cowboys should win. I'm taking the Cowboys as the only road favorite this week.
Jets (+9) @ Chargers - LT is hurting, Shawn Merriman is out for the year and Brett Farve is now a Jet. They might not win but I'm taking the Jets and the points.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
NFL Week #2
What's the U.S. Post Office's motto? Something about no rain, snow or whatever will stop deliver? Same applies for my weekly ranting. Add Hurricane Ike to the list. I'd throw in some joke about Ike treating Houston like Tina but what's the point?
On with the games.
I know not every team can fix every mistake or fill every personal hole right away but some situations have become down right ridiculous. One is Detroit. Enough already. Fire Matt Millen. The guy is the worse GM in the league. Other than taking WR in the first round he's done nothing to improve the team. The Lions are 31-83 during Millen's tenure. That is the worse mark in the league since Millen took over decision making responsibilities for the Lions. It's disgusting. It's disgraceful. It's Lions football. The weren't any better before Millen. You'd think though that team owner Ford would take Millen out back by now and end it. Then again look at how the Ford family has run their automotive company lately. Terrible management is manifesting in the family legacy business and its football team.
The second glaring need has been the Chicago Bears quarterback situation. They've had a problem ever since Rex Grossman became the starter. Great defense and a Jekyll-Hyde Grossman lead the team to a Super Bowl. Despite Grossman's erratic play the Bears never looked to improve the situation. Instead they turned to Kyle Orton; the former starter three years ago and third stringer for the last two seasons. While NFL caliber QBs don't grow on trees, the Bears have done absolutely nothing to improve the situation. Looks like a great defense will go to waste.
One the field, both Oakland and Tennessee put aside their respective soap operas and went out and won. The Al "Palpatine" Davis vs. Lane Kiffin drama continues. I find it intriguing that Palpatine hasn't used the force to choke Kiffin or blasted him with lightening. Palpatine doesn't want to be on the hook for the money if he fires Kiffin. So he's made his life miserable and has tried to get him to quit. Kiffin won't quit. Davis has taken away his decision making and at one point last year Kiffin wasn't even allowed in team meetings. This all reminds me of the Seinfeld episode where a company tries to get George Costanza to quit his job by blocking off access to his office. He just keeps finding ways in and refuses to quit. That's my new name for Kiffin. This is the grand battle of Emperor Palpatine vs. George Costanza.
In Tennessee, the Vince Young saga continues. The VY apologists like Jerome Solomon of the Houston Chronicle can spin it any way they want but the fact remains that Young has turned into a basket case. The fact is he didn't want to reenter the game last week, coach Jeff Fisher was concerned enough to call the police after talking to Young, his mommy went to the media to plead for Vinny to be left alone and later he didn't want to have the MRI done on his knee. The most telling sign that he's screwed up is that Fisher has stated for the record that Young will not return as the starter when he gets healthy. Fisher has also said that Young needs to buckle down and start to review film and learn the game. Young is such a gifted athlete that he just dominated in high school and college. Now that he's in the league where the talent is so much superior to the previous ranks that he can't get by on talent alone. Until he learns to play the NFL game and listen to his coaches, he will never excel in the league. I also think it's a telling sign that he was at home nursing his mangina instead of with the team for the game.
My player of the week is Jay Cutler: 36/50, 350 yards, 4 TDs.
The Joe Pisarcik Player of the Week is referee Ed Hochuli for his wrong call that ruled a fumble an incomplete pass that allowed Denver to keep the ball and defeat the Chargers.
I have a lot more to say but this is long enough. Obviously nothing about the Texans this week with the game moved to November 9th.
On with the games.
I know not every team can fix every mistake or fill every personal hole right away but some situations have become down right ridiculous. One is Detroit. Enough already. Fire Matt Millen. The guy is the worse GM in the league. Other than taking WR in the first round he's done nothing to improve the team. The Lions are 31-83 during Millen's tenure. That is the worse mark in the league since Millen took over decision making responsibilities for the Lions. It's disgusting. It's disgraceful. It's Lions football. The weren't any better before Millen. You'd think though that team owner Ford would take Millen out back by now and end it. Then again look at how the Ford family has run their automotive company lately. Terrible management is manifesting in the family legacy business and its football team.
The second glaring need has been the Chicago Bears quarterback situation. They've had a problem ever since Rex Grossman became the starter. Great defense and a Jekyll-Hyde Grossman lead the team to a Super Bowl. Despite Grossman's erratic play the Bears never looked to improve the situation. Instead they turned to Kyle Orton; the former starter three years ago and third stringer for the last two seasons. While NFL caliber QBs don't grow on trees, the Bears have done absolutely nothing to improve the situation. Looks like a great defense will go to waste.
One the field, both Oakland and Tennessee put aside their respective soap operas and went out and won. The Al "Palpatine" Davis vs. Lane Kiffin drama continues. I find it intriguing that Palpatine hasn't used the force to choke Kiffin or blasted him with lightening. Palpatine doesn't want to be on the hook for the money if he fires Kiffin. So he's made his life miserable and has tried to get him to quit. Kiffin won't quit. Davis has taken away his decision making and at one point last year Kiffin wasn't even allowed in team meetings. This all reminds me of the Seinfeld episode where a company tries to get George Costanza to quit his job by blocking off access to his office. He just keeps finding ways in and refuses to quit. That's my new name for Kiffin. This is the grand battle of Emperor Palpatine vs. George Costanza.
In Tennessee, the Vince Young saga continues. The VY apologists like Jerome Solomon of the Houston Chronicle can spin it any way they want but the fact remains that Young has turned into a basket case. The fact is he didn't want to reenter the game last week, coach Jeff Fisher was concerned enough to call the police after talking to Young, his mommy went to the media to plead for Vinny to be left alone and later he didn't want to have the MRI done on his knee. The most telling sign that he's screwed up is that Fisher has stated for the record that Young will not return as the starter when he gets healthy. Fisher has also said that Young needs to buckle down and start to review film and learn the game. Young is such a gifted athlete that he just dominated in high school and college. Now that he's in the league where the talent is so much superior to the previous ranks that he can't get by on talent alone. Until he learns to play the NFL game and listen to his coaches, he will never excel in the league. I also think it's a telling sign that he was at home nursing his mangina instead of with the team for the game.
My player of the week is Jay Cutler: 36/50, 350 yards, 4 TDs.
The Joe Pisarcik Player of the Week is referee Ed Hochuli for his wrong call that ruled a fumble an incomplete pass that allowed Denver to keep the ball and defeat the Chargers.
I have a lot more to say but this is long enough. Obviously nothing about the Texans this week with the game moved to November 9th.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
NFL Week 1, Unkle Monkee vs. the Line
All is right in the world, despite the Texans loss, with the opening of 2008 NFL season. Herm Edwards still sucks, Matt Millen is still the worse general manager in football and the Texans fans on the message boards are a bunch of idiots.
First off my player of the week: Michael Turner, RB Atlanta. After being LaDainian Tomlison's back up since 2004, he cashed in big time with a multi year mega contract with the Falcons. I had my doubts if he was going to be the big name back capable of putting up big numbers but I took him in the second round of my fantasy league draft. For one week he paid off: 220 yards on 22 carries with 2 TDs.
Atlanta is trying to put the Michael Vick and Bobby Petrino debacles behind them. Turner will help them forget and it appears so will rookie quarterback Matt Ryan. While Ryan didn't put up eye popping numbers, he did throw for a touchdown on his first ever NFL pass. If Turner keeps running like he started, Ryan won't have to have big numbers. He'll just have to take care of the ball and throw enough to keep defenses honest.
Big rumor out of Tennessee is that Vince Young may have quit on the team in the fourth quarter. Alleged All-Universe (if you talk to UT fans) Young is under huge pressure in Tennessee. For all the local fans still pissed that the Texans passed on Young there just as many Titans fans pissed that the team passed on Jay Cutler. Cutler was a local hero playing at Vanderbilt University like Young was a local high school/UT hero here. The Titan fans have definitely turned on Young. He's been booed through out the preseason and this week when he came back on the field after an injury. I'm definitely of the opinion that Young doesn't have the arm for the NFL. Now I'm starting to think he doesn't have the mental make up to be in the NFL.
http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080908/SPORTS01/809080337/1027
Despite Young's lack of NFL success, the Titans find ways to win and that's mostly because of their strong defense. Also despite his lack of NFL success, writers like the Houston Chronicle's Rusty Tromboner (Richard Justice) and Jabba the McClain (John McClain) will continue to ride his jock. Look up "rusty trombone" if you don't know what it is. Justice earned the nickname from one of the UH message boards.
It may turnout to be a long season for the Pats now that Tom Brady is out for the year. I hate that he's out cause I'd like for nothing more than to see him continue to out play Peyton Manning.
It was good to see Donovan McNabb looking healthy again. He had a fantastic game against the St. Louis Cardinals. McNabb is one of my all time favorite players. I really hated watching him struggle the last two seasons. As much as I want fellow Houston Cougar Kevin Kolb to succeed in the NFL, I don't want it at the expense of McNabb.
This week's Joe Pisarcik Player of the Week is Carson Palmer. 10 completions on 25 attempts for 99 yards to go with one interception earns him this dubious distinction. Thanks to Palmer's performance and TJ Houshmenzedah's I lost my opening week in fantasy football by four points.
Finally the depressing thought of the week. The Houston Texans. I expected them to lose to Pittsburgh. I didn't expect them to get manhandled like red headed step children. The overall performance was pretty pathetic. The only player to show up was Mario Williams. He picked up where he left off last year with two sacks, a forced fumble and six solo tackles. My major concern for the Texans is the defense. The first teamers were pushed around all preseason and now in week one. I have a feeling defensive coordinator Richard Smith might not survive the season. Of course, I think he should have been let go during the 2006 season. I think the offense will be fine though.
I think the Texans will have a tough time against the Ravens this week but will somehow pull out a win.
Well, I've put in a solid three day work week. I am out of here until next Monday. Have a good one. It's an all football weekend for me. I'll be out at UH to watch them play Air Force and then to the Texans on Sunday.
Against the Line
I went 10-5 versus the Vegas line this week. I didn't include Thursday's opener since I posted after the fact.
Tom Brady's injury greatly affected the game against KC and the Pats failed to cover for me. Turner's big day against the Lions cost me another game. Seattle's flat out beating, Chicago's upset of Indy and the Begnals going Bungles against the Raven's round out my losses.
On the winning side of the ledger, I went against the line and took the underdogs with the Titans, Saints and Panthers.
I'll post this weeks picks on Friday. I'm just curious on how I'll do against the line for a whole season. I've never measured myself before.
First off my player of the week: Michael Turner, RB Atlanta. After being LaDainian Tomlison's back up since 2004, he cashed in big time with a multi year mega contract with the Falcons. I had my doubts if he was going to be the big name back capable of putting up big numbers but I took him in the second round of my fantasy league draft. For one week he paid off: 220 yards on 22 carries with 2 TDs.
Atlanta is trying to put the Michael Vick and Bobby Petrino debacles behind them. Turner will help them forget and it appears so will rookie quarterback Matt Ryan. While Ryan didn't put up eye popping numbers, he did throw for a touchdown on his first ever NFL pass. If Turner keeps running like he started, Ryan won't have to have big numbers. He'll just have to take care of the ball and throw enough to keep defenses honest.
Big rumor out of Tennessee is that Vince Young may have quit on the team in the fourth quarter. Alleged All-Universe (if you talk to UT fans) Young is under huge pressure in Tennessee. For all the local fans still pissed that the Texans passed on Young there just as many Titans fans pissed that the team passed on Jay Cutler. Cutler was a local hero playing at Vanderbilt University like Young was a local high school/UT hero here. The Titan fans have definitely turned on Young. He's been booed through out the preseason and this week when he came back on the field after an injury. I'm definitely of the opinion that Young doesn't have the arm for the NFL. Now I'm starting to think he doesn't have the mental make up to be in the NFL.
http://www.tennessean.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080908/SPORTS01/809080337/1027
Despite Young's lack of NFL success, the Titans find ways to win and that's mostly because of their strong defense. Also despite his lack of NFL success, writers like the Houston Chronicle's Rusty Tromboner (Richard Justice) and Jabba the McClain (John McClain) will continue to ride his jock. Look up "rusty trombone" if you don't know what it is. Justice earned the nickname from one of the UH message boards.
It may turnout to be a long season for the Pats now that Tom Brady is out for the year. I hate that he's out cause I'd like for nothing more than to see him continue to out play Peyton Manning.
It was good to see Donovan McNabb looking healthy again. He had a fantastic game against the St. Louis Cardinals. McNabb is one of my all time favorite players. I really hated watching him struggle the last two seasons. As much as I want fellow Houston Cougar Kevin Kolb to succeed in the NFL, I don't want it at the expense of McNabb.
This week's Joe Pisarcik Player of the Week is Carson Palmer. 10 completions on 25 attempts for 99 yards to go with one interception earns him this dubious distinction. Thanks to Palmer's performance and TJ Houshmenzedah's I lost my opening week in fantasy football by four points.
Finally the depressing thought of the week. The Houston Texans. I expected them to lose to Pittsburgh. I didn't expect them to get manhandled like red headed step children. The overall performance was pretty pathetic. The only player to show up was Mario Williams. He picked up where he left off last year with two sacks, a forced fumble and six solo tackles. My major concern for the Texans is the defense. The first teamers were pushed around all preseason and now in week one. I have a feeling defensive coordinator Richard Smith might not survive the season. Of course, I think he should have been let go during the 2006 season. I think the offense will be fine though.
I think the Texans will have a tough time against the Ravens this week but will somehow pull out a win.
Well, I've put in a solid three day work week. I am out of here until next Monday. Have a good one. It's an all football weekend for me. I'll be out at UH to watch them play Air Force and then to the Texans on Sunday.
Against the Line
I went 10-5 versus the Vegas line this week. I didn't include Thursday's opener since I posted after the fact.
Tom Brady's injury greatly affected the game against KC and the Pats failed to cover for me. Turner's big day against the Lions cost me another game. Seattle's flat out beating, Chicago's upset of Indy and the Begnals going Bungles against the Raven's round out my losses.
On the winning side of the ledger, I went against the line and took the underdogs with the Titans, Saints and Panthers.
I'll post this weeks picks on Friday. I'm just curious on how I'll do against the line for a whole season. I've never measured myself before.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Unkle Monkee vs. The Line - Week 1
I'm going to keep track of how I do against the line this football season. So without further ado, here goes.
Bengals -2 vs. Ravens - Bengals
Jets -3 vs. Dolphins - Jets
Chiefs +15.5 vs. Patriots - Pats
Texans +6.5 vs. Steelers - Steelers
Jags -3 vs. Titans - Titans
Lions -3 vs. Falcons - Lions
Seahawks +1 vs. Buffalo - Seahawks
Bucs +3 vs. Saints - Saints
Rams +7.5 vs. Eagles - Eagles
Cowboys -6 vs. Browns - Cowboys
Panthers +9 vs. San Diego - Panthers
Cardinals -2.5 vs. 49ers - Cards
Bears +9.5 vs. Colts - Colts
Vikings +2.5 vs. Packers - Packers
Broncos -3 vs. Raiders - Broncos
Bengals -2 vs. Ravens - Bengals
Jets -3 vs. Dolphins - Jets
Chiefs +15.5 vs. Patriots - Pats
Texans +6.5 vs. Steelers - Steelers
Jags -3 vs. Titans - Titans
Lions -3 vs. Falcons - Lions
Seahawks +1 vs. Buffalo - Seahawks
Bucs +3 vs. Saints - Saints
Rams +7.5 vs. Eagles - Eagles
Cowboys -6 vs. Browns - Cowboys
Panthers +9 vs. San Diego - Panthers
Cardinals -2.5 vs. 49ers - Cards
Bears +9.5 vs. Colts - Colts
Vikings +2.5 vs. Packers - Packers
Broncos -3 vs. Raiders - Broncos
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