I try to write a weekly NFL column. Work and the Texans funks I go into sometimes keep me from it. Sometimes I just flat out get lazy.
The Big Topic - Andre Johnson vs. Cortland Finnegan
By now it is obvious that Johnson and Finnegan don't like each other. All that came to a head last week when Johnson pretty much kicked Finnegan's ass. Evidently they had been jawing at each other all game. The play before the fight there was a little pushing and shoving between the two. The next play Finnegan shoved his hands under Johnson's face mask and Johnson ripped Finnegan's helmet off and proceeded to connect three times to the head.
Being a Texans fan, I'm biased. I'm not going to hide that fact.
However, I don't blame Johnson one bit for going after Finnegan. If he is getting some cheap shots, at some point enough is enough and you have to send a message. Finnegan has a reputation for being a dirty player. Is he? I don't really know. He is feisty, pesky and a runt. It was probably a combination of things that got Johnson angry. Finnegan probably began with head games, which I'm sure most defensive backs do, and started mixing in some borderline tactics.
I'll pretty much sum up the fight this way: it was like a hockey brawl. In the NHL, most teams employ an enforcer, goon or tough guy. This guys sole job is to be a pain in the ass and rough up the star players. At some point, the other team sends in their enforcer to either retaliate against the other teams star or the enforcer himself. The enforcers eventually square off, drop gloves and go at it. For some strange reason, it is ingrained in NHL culture. Despite what NHL powers say about cleaning up the game, fighting remains an integral part of the sport. It doesn't happen every game but the potential for a fight exists at every game.
Fortunately, fighting isn't part of NFL culture. No team has a goon to go head hunting on for the other teams stars. No goons face off to send a message. But every once in a while, tempers do fly and fights happen.
This thing between Johnson and Finnegan had been brewing for three years. It finally reached a point where they dropped gloves and went at it. Finnegan accomplished what he wanted by getting Johnson ejected. Johnson accomplished his goal of beating Finnegan's ass. A fair trade off. Finnegan was also ejected.
A corollary topic has been about commissioner Roger Goodell's meting out of punishment. The consensus among the shows I've listened to and the articles I read is that there is no rhyme or reason on how Goodell decides punishments. Fines, suspensions or a mixture, there is no hard rule. It seems arbitrary at times.
The other consensus is that if Goodell suspended Finnegan he would have also had to suspend Johnson. I honestly believe both should have been suspended. Johnson knocked Finnegan's helmet off and landed three hits to the head. That alone should warrant suspension. Finnegan had three prior fines. On the third one he should have been suspended and any further incidents increase fine and at least one game suspension.
Instead the Commish issued a slap on the wrist to both and let bygones be bygones. The fines send no message to other players about fighting. Game suspensions are the best way to get a player's attention. They don't get paid for those games. Plus he knows it hurts the team by his absence. Sometimes letting your teammates down and their anger is enough to keep one in line.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
NFL Week 8 - Moss Gone
I'm back from vacation and ready to bring up the quality of this blog for the rest of the year. I've been writing subpar columns from what I used to write in my opinion.
Moss is Gone
Randy Moss literally talked his way off the Minnesota Vikings and probably the NFL (at least for the season). The Vikings placed Moss on waivers after his one catch for 8 yards performance against the Patriots.
Last week the NFL fined Moss $25,000 for not making himself available to weekly media interviews. There is an interview clause in the standard player contract. Players must make themselves available, usually teams arrange a specific day once a week, for interviews. The moody Moss sat his day away from media day.
After the Vikings vs. Patriots game, he claimed he will only conduct interviews with himself. He went on to say how much he missed the Pats and Bill Belichick. On Monday, head coach Brad Childress informed the players that Moss no longer played for the Vikings.
Moss actually talked his way off two teams this season. The Patriots were not to pleased with his performance or his rambling, long winded, self important press conference after opening week games.
The Vikings paid a big price for Moss. A third round may not seem steep on the surface but it is. The third round usually is where teams try to fill depth on the roster and occasionally an immediate contributor. Instead the Vikings received a three game rental for Moss.
The move was just the latest in a season gone awry for the Vikings. Brett Favre started the season with his usual drama queen act. Then came the off field allegations of Favre's behavior. His on field performance nose dived from last year. The defense hasn't played at the same level as last year either. Mix in the Moss fiasco and the Vikings place second after Dallas in the underachieving category.
McNabb Benched
The Redskins are one of more storied NFL programs. That is until Daniel Snyder took over. Since then the 'skins are now pretty much a joke.
I figured the hiring of Mike Shanahan might bring some stability to the organization. Instead it's more of the same. First, while not entirely Shanahan's doing, came the Fat Albert Haynesworth fiasco.
This week Shanahan added more fuel to the burning franchise. Late in the game, old rat face benched starter Donovan McNabb and inserted the Sex Cannon Rex Grossman. The move proved an utter failure. Sexy Rex fumbled the first snap and Detroit rookie Ndamukong Suh returned it for a game ensuring touchdown.
Shanahan's reasoning in the post game presser? McNabb didn't have the two minute offense down. Oh really? That speaks volumes about Shanahan's coaching. McNabb has been a Redskin since last Easter. He's had since the with OTAs, camping and preseason as well as in season practice to learn it. Either McNabb is stupid, which isn't the case. He ran a variation of the West Coast offense for Andy Reid in Philly. Or Shanahan isn't a very good instructor.
Yesterday Shanahan backtracked from his statements. He claimed that McNabb had leg injuries and "cardiovascular endurance" issues. What? So now McNabb isn't in shape? Again I find that hard to believe.
For whatever reason, Shanahan made the decision in game that Grossman gave him the best chance to win. Hard to believe but what other reason is there other than Shanahan's ineptitude? One thing Shanahan is not know for is his personnel evaluation. After he won a power struggle over his general manager in Denver, he assumed control of all personnel decisions. He ended up getting fired and leaving the Broncos a mess on defense.
Now it looks like Snyder may have made another bad coaching hire and the 'skins continue the downward spiral.
Dallas Karma
I think I'll leave the Dallas Karma bit its own entry.
Raheem Morris Not Over His Head
Last year there was much said and written about Raheem Morris in over his head as the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Many pundits thought Morris was one and done in Tampa. He fired his offensive coordinator before the season started. He fired the defensive coordinator midseason and took over the defense calls himself. Many saw that as signs of disarray and a sinking ship.
Fast forward to this year and the Bucs are sitting at 5-2 and in contention in the NFC South. It looks to me that Morris is anything but in over his head.
It's just another reason to not listen to the talking heads in the media. If they new what they were talking about they would be making money in football and not watching and making stuff up.
Stat Line of the Week
The box score of the Green Bay versus NY Jets. The Packers won 9-0 on the strength of Mason Crosby's three field goals.
1st Quarter
FG 4:41 Mason Crosby 20 yd FG
Plays: 5 | Yards: 34 | Time: 1:51
4th Quarter
FG 6:36 Mason Crosby 41 yd FG
Plays: 8 | Yards: 34 | Time: 3:58
FG 0:27 Mason Crosby 40 yd FG
Plays: 4 | Yards: 1 | Time: 2:03
Player of the Week
David Garrard
I think this selection is more indicative of how far the Dallas Cowboys have fallen than how good a player Garrard is. Garrard has been down right awful and benched this season. Yet he was an efficient 17 of 21 passing for 260 yards and 4 TDs.
JaMarcus Russell Player of the Week
Matt Schaub
Schaub played a terrible game when the Texans had a chance to sweep the season series from the Colts and claim sole possession of first place in the AFC South. Instead he didn't show up and threw a costly pick six and fumbled on his last snap of the game.
Goat of the Week
Rex Grossman/Mike Shanahan
Grossman for fumbling the ball on the first snap and Shanahan for putting in a cold quarterback in the closing seconds of the game.
Moss is Gone
Randy Moss literally talked his way off the Minnesota Vikings and probably the NFL (at least for the season). The Vikings placed Moss on waivers after his one catch for 8 yards performance against the Patriots.
Last week the NFL fined Moss $25,000 for not making himself available to weekly media interviews. There is an interview clause in the standard player contract. Players must make themselves available, usually teams arrange a specific day once a week, for interviews. The moody Moss sat his day away from media day.
After the Vikings vs. Patriots game, he claimed he will only conduct interviews with himself. He went on to say how much he missed the Pats and Bill Belichick. On Monday, head coach Brad Childress informed the players that Moss no longer played for the Vikings.
Moss actually talked his way off two teams this season. The Patriots were not to pleased with his performance or his rambling, long winded, self important press conference after opening week games.
The Vikings paid a big price for Moss. A third round may not seem steep on the surface but it is. The third round usually is where teams try to fill depth on the roster and occasionally an immediate contributor. Instead the Vikings received a three game rental for Moss.
The move was just the latest in a season gone awry for the Vikings. Brett Favre started the season with his usual drama queen act. Then came the off field allegations of Favre's behavior. His on field performance nose dived from last year. The defense hasn't played at the same level as last year either. Mix in the Moss fiasco and the Vikings place second after Dallas in the underachieving category.
McNabb Benched
The Redskins are one of more storied NFL programs. That is until Daniel Snyder took over. Since then the 'skins are now pretty much a joke.
I figured the hiring of Mike Shanahan might bring some stability to the organization. Instead it's more of the same. First, while not entirely Shanahan's doing, came the Fat Albert Haynesworth fiasco.
This week Shanahan added more fuel to the burning franchise. Late in the game, old rat face benched starter Donovan McNabb and inserted the Sex Cannon Rex Grossman. The move proved an utter failure. Sexy Rex fumbled the first snap and Detroit rookie Ndamukong Suh returned it for a game ensuring touchdown.
Shanahan's reasoning in the post game presser? McNabb didn't have the two minute offense down. Oh really? That speaks volumes about Shanahan's coaching. McNabb has been a Redskin since last Easter. He's had since the with OTAs, camping and preseason as well as in season practice to learn it. Either McNabb is stupid, which isn't the case. He ran a variation of the West Coast offense for Andy Reid in Philly. Or Shanahan isn't a very good instructor.
Yesterday Shanahan backtracked from his statements. He claimed that McNabb had leg injuries and "cardiovascular endurance" issues. What? So now McNabb isn't in shape? Again I find that hard to believe.
For whatever reason, Shanahan made the decision in game that Grossman gave him the best chance to win. Hard to believe but what other reason is there other than Shanahan's ineptitude? One thing Shanahan is not know for is his personnel evaluation. After he won a power struggle over his general manager in Denver, he assumed control of all personnel decisions. He ended up getting fired and leaving the Broncos a mess on defense.
Now it looks like Snyder may have made another bad coaching hire and the 'skins continue the downward spiral.
Dallas Karma
I think I'll leave the Dallas Karma bit its own entry.
Raheem Morris Not Over His Head
Last year there was much said and written about Raheem Morris in over his head as the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Many pundits thought Morris was one and done in Tampa. He fired his offensive coordinator before the season started. He fired the defensive coordinator midseason and took over the defense calls himself. Many saw that as signs of disarray and a sinking ship.
Fast forward to this year and the Bucs are sitting at 5-2 and in contention in the NFC South. It looks to me that Morris is anything but in over his head.
It's just another reason to not listen to the talking heads in the media. If they new what they were talking about they would be making money in football and not watching and making stuff up.
Stat Line of the Week
The box score of the Green Bay versus NY Jets. The Packers won 9-0 on the strength of Mason Crosby's three field goals.
1st Quarter
FG 4:41 Mason Crosby 20 yd FG
Plays: 5 | Yards: 34 | Time: 1:51
4th Quarter
FG 6:36 Mason Crosby 41 yd FG
Plays: 8 | Yards: 34 | Time: 3:58
FG 0:27 Mason Crosby 40 yd FG
Plays: 4 | Yards: 1 | Time: 2:03
Player of the Week
David Garrard
I think this selection is more indicative of how far the Dallas Cowboys have fallen than how good a player Garrard is. Garrard has been down right awful and benched this season. Yet he was an efficient 17 of 21 passing for 260 yards and 4 TDs.
JaMarcus Russell Player of the Week
Matt Schaub
Schaub played a terrible game when the Texans had a chance to sweep the season series from the Colts and claim sole possession of first place in the AFC South. Instead he didn't show up and threw a costly pick six and fumbled on his last snap of the game.
Goat of the Week
Rex Grossman/Mike Shanahan
Grossman for fumbling the ball on the first snap and Shanahan for putting in a cold quarterback in the closing seconds of the game.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
NFL Week 6 - Quarterback Roulette
This year, so far, has been a revolving door for starting quarterbacks. I'm talking about the lack of performance benchings and not the injury changes.
Carolina, Oakland, Arizona, Philadelphia, Tennessee and Jacksonville are a few teams that benched the opening day starter for performance. Vince Young and David Garrard returned as starters the next week but Matt Moore, Jason Campbell and Derek Anderson didn't.
Carolina opted to start second round pick Jimmy Clausen and now will return to Moore. Switching out one quarterback for another though shouldn't make a difference on the misery of the Panthers. Clausen's 47% completion rate along with 5 turnovers is slightly better than Moore's 42% and 8 turnovers. Why the change then? Beats me. Probably wants to keep both quarterback's brains from turning to complete mush. The only way to do that is to not one all 16 games.
The Hex of JaMarcus Russell?
Detroit has the Curse of Bobby Layne. Does Oakland have the opposite effect in a jinx or hex? Did the franchise snake bit the quarterback position forever with the selection of JaMarcus Russell?
It's to early to tell if the Raiders quarterbacks are snake bitten. A hex, jinx or curse develops over time.
Despite the lack of evidence for a hex, something is going on at the quarterback spot. Jason Campbell went directly to the bench after a Russell like performance opening day. Campbell received another shot at the starting job due to injury. Campbell did his best JaMarcus Russell impersonation. He posted a line of 8 of 21 for 83 yards passing along with a 10.7 passer rating. Campbell is so bad that the Raiders are thinking of starting third stringer Kyle Boller against Denver.
As For the Eagles
Kevin Kolb went to the bench after an injury. Michael Vick stepped in as the starter. The unwritten rule is a player doesn't lose a starting job to injury. Kolb was expected back when he recovered. Head coach Andy Reid even named Kolb the starter. Then a day later Reid decided to go with Vick. And it paid off. Then Vick got hurt and now Kolb is starting again. Reid stated though that if Vick were healthy Vick would start.
The interesting thing about the Eagles quarterback shuffle is there is no animosity between the two nor in the locker room. Controversies usually divide a locker room as players back their favorite guy. By all accounts that's not the case at all in Philly.
According to SI.com's Peter King, the two quarterbacks respect and like each other. According to Kings account:
I think both players realize that they will succeed somewhere in the NFL so there is no point undermining each other. Vick has lost it all once before due to off the field behavior. He's getting a second chance. If he gains a reputation in the locker room with an attitude or as a subversive player, he career is effectively over. No one will want to deal with him anymore. Kolb probably also realizes that he has many years ahead of him to play barring injury. He waited behind Donovan McNabb for his chance patiently. I think he's willing to wait it out a little bit more if he has to.
The Brett Favre Saga
I normally don't give any air time to Brett Favre and his off the field antics. He thrives on being a drama queen and hacks like Peter King eat it up.
So I'm limiting my words here. All I have to say about the latest reports and allegations concerning Favre is the whole affair is curious.
Why did Jenn Sterger wait a about two years to release the information about the photos and Favre? More odd is that she released the allegations but has been quiet since. She has made no public allegations of harassment nor filed a law suit. It appears that she just threw it out there to give someone a story. I have no clue to her motivation.
Box Score Line of the Week
Chris Ivory RB Saints
158 yards on 17 carries for a 10.5 average.
Considering this was only his fourth NFL game....outstanding
Player of the Week
E.J. Henderson MLB Vikings
Two interceptions that lead to ten points in the Vikings 24-21 victory against the Cowboys.
Joe Pisarcik Player/Coach of the Week
Todd Haley and Charlie Weis
In the closing minutes of the Texans vs. Chiefs game, on a 3rd & 2 the Chiefs passed. Matt Cassell overthrew the tight end. The incomplete pass stopped the clock, allowed the Texans to preserve a time out and eventually score the game winning touchdown with 28 seconds left.
JaMarcus Russell Player of the Week
As mentioned earlier, Jason Campbell did his best to out do Russell posting a 10.7 passer rating.
Carolina, Oakland, Arizona, Philadelphia, Tennessee and Jacksonville are a few teams that benched the opening day starter for performance. Vince Young and David Garrard returned as starters the next week but Matt Moore, Jason Campbell and Derek Anderson didn't.
Carolina opted to start second round pick Jimmy Clausen and now will return to Moore. Switching out one quarterback for another though shouldn't make a difference on the misery of the Panthers. Clausen's 47% completion rate along with 5 turnovers is slightly better than Moore's 42% and 8 turnovers. Why the change then? Beats me. Probably wants to keep both quarterback's brains from turning to complete mush. The only way to do that is to not one all 16 games.
The Hex of JaMarcus Russell?
Detroit has the Curse of Bobby Layne. Does Oakland have the opposite effect in a jinx or hex? Did the franchise snake bit the quarterback position forever with the selection of JaMarcus Russell?
It's to early to tell if the Raiders quarterbacks are snake bitten. A hex, jinx or curse develops over time.
Despite the lack of evidence for a hex, something is going on at the quarterback spot. Jason Campbell went directly to the bench after a Russell like performance opening day. Campbell received another shot at the starting job due to injury. Campbell did his best JaMarcus Russell impersonation. He posted a line of 8 of 21 for 83 yards passing along with a 10.7 passer rating. Campbell is so bad that the Raiders are thinking of starting third stringer Kyle Boller against Denver.
As For the Eagles
Kevin Kolb went to the bench after an injury. Michael Vick stepped in as the starter. The unwritten rule is a player doesn't lose a starting job to injury. Kolb was expected back when he recovered. Head coach Andy Reid even named Kolb the starter. Then a day later Reid decided to go with Vick. And it paid off. Then Vick got hurt and now Kolb is starting again. Reid stated though that if Vick were healthy Vick would start.
The interesting thing about the Eagles quarterback shuffle is there is no animosity between the two nor in the locker room. Controversies usually divide a locker room as players back their favorite guy. By all accounts that's not the case at all in Philly.
According to SI.com's Peter King, the two quarterbacks respect and like each other. According to Kings account:
When Vick hugged Kolb after the game, he said to him, "I'm proud of you.'
I think both players realize that they will succeed somewhere in the NFL so there is no point undermining each other. Vick has lost it all once before due to off the field behavior. He's getting a second chance. If he gains a reputation in the locker room with an attitude or as a subversive player, he career is effectively over. No one will want to deal with him anymore. Kolb probably also realizes that he has many years ahead of him to play barring injury. He waited behind Donovan McNabb for his chance patiently. I think he's willing to wait it out a little bit more if he has to.
The Brett Favre Saga
I normally don't give any air time to Brett Favre and his off the field antics. He thrives on being a drama queen and hacks like Peter King eat it up.
So I'm limiting my words here. All I have to say about the latest reports and allegations concerning Favre is the whole affair is curious.
Why did Jenn Sterger wait a about two years to release the information about the photos and Favre? More odd is that she released the allegations but has been quiet since. She has made no public allegations of harassment nor filed a law suit. It appears that she just threw it out there to give someone a story. I have no clue to her motivation.
Box Score Line of the Week
Chris Ivory RB Saints
158 yards on 17 carries for a 10.5 average.
Considering this was only his fourth NFL game....outstanding
Player of the Week
E.J. Henderson MLB Vikings
Two interceptions that lead to ten points in the Vikings 24-21 victory against the Cowboys.
Joe Pisarcik Player/Coach of the Week
Todd Haley and Charlie Weis
In the closing minutes of the Texans vs. Chiefs game, on a 3rd & 2 the Chiefs passed. Matt Cassell overthrew the tight end. The incomplete pass stopped the clock, allowed the Texans to preserve a time out and eventually score the game winning touchdown with 28 seconds left.
JaMarcus Russell Player of the Week
As mentioned earlier, Jason Campbell did his best to out do Russell posting a 10.7 passer rating.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Houston Cougar Game Day 6 vs. Rice
Houston Cougars vs. rice owls
October 16, 2010 2:30 p.m.
Rice Stadium
Last Meeting:
Houston 73 Rice 14
Houston leads series 26-10
Official UH Weekly Press Release
Evil Longhorn Steve Campbell's Notes
On The Job Training for Piland
Houston Chronicle's UH Notebook
Case Keenum Injury Watch
Keenum To Apply For Medical Redshirt
Last year's beat down of rice.
October 16, 2010 2:30 p.m.
Rice Stadium
Last Meeting:
Houston 73 Rice 14
Houston leads series 26-10
Official UH Weekly Press Release
Evil Longhorn Steve Campbell's Notes
On The Job Training for Piland
Houston Chronicle's UH Notebook
Case Keenum Injury Watch
Keenum To Apply For Medical Redshirt
Last year's beat down of rice.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Houston 42 Tulane 23
42
23The Houston Cougars played the first post Case Keenum game. Under center was true freshman Terrance Broadway. The announced crowd 32,007 was technically a sell out but I figured about 22K was in actual attendance. The 2:30 p.m. kick off on an absolutely hot and humid day mixed with Keenum out for the year affected the attendance.
Regardless of the attendance, QB situation, heat and uncertainty of the rest of the season, the Cougars prevailed over the Tulane Green Wave 42-23. Broadway and the offense managed a 28-14 lead at halftime.
The hero of the game for the Coogs came on defense though. Cornerback Loyce Means intercepted two passes in the final six minutes to seal the game for the Coogs. The last pick he took to the endzone for a touchdown and put the Green Wave down for good. Means heroics earned him C-USA Defensive Player of the Week.
In Keenum's absence, Broadway went lead the Cougars to a 21-0 lead. However Broadway also fumbled twice and threw one interception. Junior running back Bryce Beall powered the Cougar offense with 123 yards on 24 carries with 4 going for TDs.
Houston 42 Tulane 23 Highlights
Houston Chronicle Recap
Houston vs. Tulane Box Score
Game Day Pictures
Houston Chronicle Pictures
Stephen Pinchback Photos
My Game Day Photos - coming soon
Case Keenum Injury Watch
Keenum Has Successful Surgery
Houston vs. Tulane Box Score
Game Day Pictures
Houston Chronicle Pictures
Stephen Pinchback Photos
My Game Day Photos - coming soon
Case Keenum Injury Watch
Keenum Has Successful Surgery
NFL Week 2 vs the Spread, Week 4 Picks
I'm really late with the week two results and obviously I didn't post any week three picks. Sometimes that happens when you have a real job.
For the week I went 8-6-1 to bring my overall record to 15-12-4. So far I'm in the money if I'm betting equal amounts in all games. Not by much but the point is to win money not lose or tie.
Week Two Highlights
I don't review all my picks but I highlight some of the good and bad guesses I made.
This week's only push was the Texans (-3) vs Redskins. The Texans met the spread in overtime.
I expected the Vikings (-5.5) to beat the Dolphins but not cover. The Dolphins won outright and gave me the win.
I figured the Ravens (-3) offense would bounce back from the bad week against the Jets. I underestimated the Bengals based on their performance against the Patriots. This game went in the loss column.
The bookies gave Tennessee to much respect with a (-5.5) so I went with the Steelers. They delivered a win for me.
The Bucs (+3) I underestimated and overestimated the Panthers. The Bucs are slowly improving and the Panthers quarterback situation is chaos. Something to keep in mind with both teams when making selections for week four.
Patriots (-3) were humbled by the Jets. The Jets offense played at a higher level than against the Ravens. Put this one in the loss side of the ledger.
I thought the Giants (+5) would put up a better fight against the Colts. I should have known the Older Manning would be angry after losing the previous week in Houston. Giants are in a free fall.
Week 4 Picks
Jets (-6.5) @ Bills - A no brainer with the Jets.
Lions (+14.5) @ Packers - I noticed a couple of years ago that most double digit spreads are sucker bets. With really no numbers to back my theory up, I also see more double digit spread wins early in the season and less in later on. I'm very hesitant to take the Packers and two touchdowns. The only thing that swings this pick to the Packs is that Matthew Stafford is out. Packers
Ravens (+2.5) @ Steelers - Steelers defense is playing lights out with a healthy Troy Palomalu. The Ravens offense has only one good outing in three games. Take the Steelers.
Broncos (+6.5) at Titans - This is a tough pick and the type of selection that can make or break your week. I think this spread is a result of the lack of respect for Denver's defense. I think the score is closer in favor of the Broncos.
49ers (+7) @ Falcons - Atlanta is on a roll. A rout of the Cardinals in week two and a OT victory over the Saints. The 49ers are in a free fall. Falcons take this plus the points at home.
Bengals (-3) @ Browns - Wow, that low. I'm thinking more of -4 or -4.5 for the Bengals but -3 it is.
Panthers (+14) @ Saints - No comment. Saint
Seahawks (-2) @ Cardinals - I think Seattle is playing a better than the Cards so gut tells me Seahawks.
Texans (-3) @ Raiders - Texans need a rebound game after last week's very disappointing loss to the Cowboys. Raiders might put up a fight but Texans cover.
Colts (-7) @ Jaguars - Colts
Redskins (+5.5) @ Eagles - It's possibly going to be an unpredictable emotional game. Donovan McNabb has a chip on his shoulder after being traded to a divisional rival. The spread for this game ranges from 4.5 to 6 points. The majority was 5.5 so that is what I use. I'm going to take the Redskins in this one.
Cardinals (+9) at Chargers - I'd like to take a pass on this one but it's not sick enough to. I don't think the Chargers cover so take the Cardinals to keep it closer than 9.
Patriots (-1) @ Dolphins - I like the Dolphins at home.
For the week I went 8-6-1 to bring my overall record to 15-12-4. So far I'm in the money if I'm betting equal amounts in all games. Not by much but the point is to win money not lose or tie.
Week Two Highlights
I don't review all my picks but I highlight some of the good and bad guesses I made.
This week's only push was the Texans (-3) vs Redskins. The Texans met the spread in overtime.
I expected the Vikings (-5.5) to beat the Dolphins but not cover. The Dolphins won outright and gave me the win.
I figured the Ravens (-3) offense would bounce back from the bad week against the Jets. I underestimated the Bengals based on their performance against the Patriots. This game went in the loss column.
The bookies gave Tennessee to much respect with a (-5.5) so I went with the Steelers. They delivered a win for me.
The Bucs (+3) I underestimated and overestimated the Panthers. The Bucs are slowly improving and the Panthers quarterback situation is chaos. Something to keep in mind with both teams when making selections for week four.
Patriots (-3) were humbled by the Jets. The Jets offense played at a higher level than against the Ravens. Put this one in the loss side of the ledger.
I thought the Giants (+5) would put up a better fight against the Colts. I should have known the Older Manning would be angry after losing the previous week in Houston. Giants are in a free fall.
Week 4 Picks
Jets (-6.5) @ Bills - A no brainer with the Jets.
Lions (+14.5) @ Packers - I noticed a couple of years ago that most double digit spreads are sucker bets. With really no numbers to back my theory up, I also see more double digit spread wins early in the season and less in later on. I'm very hesitant to take the Packers and two touchdowns. The only thing that swings this pick to the Packs is that Matthew Stafford is out. Packers
Ravens (+2.5) @ Steelers - Steelers defense is playing lights out with a healthy Troy Palomalu. The Ravens offense has only one good outing in three games. Take the Steelers.
Broncos (+6.5) at Titans - This is a tough pick and the type of selection that can make or break your week. I think this spread is a result of the lack of respect for Denver's defense. I think the score is closer in favor of the Broncos.
49ers (+7) @ Falcons - Atlanta is on a roll. A rout of the Cardinals in week two and a OT victory over the Saints. The 49ers are in a free fall. Falcons take this plus the points at home.
Bengals (-3) @ Browns - Wow, that low. I'm thinking more of -4 or -4.5 for the Bengals but -3 it is.
Panthers (+14) @ Saints - No comment. Saint
Seahawks (-2) @ Cardinals - I think Seattle is playing a better than the Cards so gut tells me Seahawks.
Texans (-3) @ Raiders - Texans need a rebound game after last week's very disappointing loss to the Cowboys. Raiders might put up a fight but Texans cover.
Colts (-7) @ Jaguars - Colts
Redskins (+5.5) @ Eagles - It's possibly going to be an unpredictable emotional game. Donovan McNabb has a chip on his shoulder after being traded to a divisional rival. The spread for this game ranges from 4.5 to 6 points. The majority was 5.5 so that is what I use. I'm going to take the Redskins in this one.
Cardinals (+9) at Chargers - I'd like to take a pass on this one but it's not sick enough to. I don't think the Chargers cover so take the Cardinals to keep it closer than 9.
Patriots (-1) @ Dolphins - I like the Dolphins at home.
NFL Week 3 - Singletary & 49ers Done?
A firey head coach, Mike Singletary brought spirit and spunk to a listless 49ers team that continued its downward spiral under Mike Nolan. A midseason promotion from assistant head coach gave Singletary the remainder of the season as an audition. After the season he won the job outright.
The years under Nolan were finally were the ones the 49ers would make the playoffs. Singletary then brought the supposed fire and brimstone needed to jump start the niners to the next level. It didn't happen in 2009. It doesn't look like it's going to happen in 2010.
Three games into the season, the 49ers fired offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye. So the downward spiral continues.
Singletary is an inner your face, yelling kind of coach. He's old school tough. The players love him. The played inspire football for him early on. Singletary put his foot in talented but volatile TE Vernon Davis. Davis straightened out his attitude and now is one of the best and highest paid TEs. Michael Crabtree had a productive rookie year despite a lengthy hold out. Former #1 overall pick Alex Smith choose to take a pay cut and continue with the team. The defense absolutely loved Singletary.
Losing changes things. Singletary is still the same fire and brimstone coach. The problem becomes when do the players start tuning him out? Yelling and screaming can only get you so far. The bottom line in sports is winning. Players will put up with a lot if winning. Not so much if losing.
Albeit for different reasons, three players abruptly have left the team. Second year running back Glenn Coffee retire in August citing spiritual reasons. Kentwan Balmer took a leave an absence during training camp. Michael Lewis lost appears to have lost his starting job and now wants his outright release.
These only the cracks we see in the foundation. Who really knows what happens behind the scenes. Don't forget GM Scott McCloughan left suddenly with no real explanation in March.
A perfect storm might be brewing in San Francisco conspiring to the Singletary regime soon. The 49ers play in one of the weaker divisions and many already crowned them champs. The team has fallen short of expectations for years now. A few more losses and Singletary might get the boot. The schedule does no favors as they play at Atlanta and host Philadelphia. The 49ers might be 0-5 after that stretch with the Raiders coming across the Bay for a game. A loss or poor showing might just finish off Singletary.
Midseason coaching changes are rare but the 49ers have done it recently. Usually if a midseason change is coming, teams wait until the open date. Singletary might not make it that far.
Animal House Strikes, Again
Just when you think the NY Jets had things under control on and off the field, Braylon Edwards drags the team back into the spotlight again for the wrong reasons.
Police pulled Edwards over for having to dark a tint on his windows. The police ended up arresting Edwards on suspicion of driving under the influence.
The Jets decided to "punish" Edwards by benching him for a quarter in last week's game. GM Mike Tannenbaum stated the punishment wasn't for the DUI but for being out late. I think the one quarter time out made the Jets look foolish. I would have much more understood had the Jets said they will wait for the case to work through the legal system before deciding what to do with Edwards. The quarter sit down and the excuse it was for being out late make a mockery of the seriousness of the situation.
NFL Stat Line of the Week
Leon Washington - RB/KR Seattle
4 Kick off returns for a total of 253 yards, 2 TDs (101 and 99 yards) for an average of 63.3 yards per return.
NFL Player of the Week
After scoring only 10 points in each of the first two games, the Ravens finally found their offense. Anquin Bolden earns this week's award for 142 yards on 8 catches for 3 TDs to ignite a stagnated Ravens offense.
JaMarcus Russell Player of the Week
David Garrard - QB Jacksonville
A week after getting bench, Garrard responded with an anemic 13-30 passing for 105 yards. Behind Garrard's leadership, the Jags only managed a field goal.
Joe Pisarcik Player/Coach of the Week
Mike Singletary - Head Coach 49ers
I'm changing the award to make just about everybody eligible for this one...from GMs, coaches and players. Singletary wins this week due to the flat out awful performance against the Chiefs. The 49ers are a few more blow out loses away from an interim head coach.
The years under Nolan were finally were the ones the 49ers would make the playoffs. Singletary then brought the supposed fire and brimstone needed to jump start the niners to the next level. It didn't happen in 2009. It doesn't look like it's going to happen in 2010.
Three games into the season, the 49ers fired offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye. So the downward spiral continues.
Singletary is an inner your face, yelling kind of coach. He's old school tough. The players love him. The played inspire football for him early on. Singletary put his foot in talented but volatile TE Vernon Davis. Davis straightened out his attitude and now is one of the best and highest paid TEs. Michael Crabtree had a productive rookie year despite a lengthy hold out. Former #1 overall pick Alex Smith choose to take a pay cut and continue with the team. The defense absolutely loved Singletary.
Losing changes things. Singletary is still the same fire and brimstone coach. The problem becomes when do the players start tuning him out? Yelling and screaming can only get you so far. The bottom line in sports is winning. Players will put up with a lot if winning. Not so much if losing.
Albeit for different reasons, three players abruptly have left the team. Second year running back Glenn Coffee retire in August citing spiritual reasons. Kentwan Balmer took a leave an absence during training camp. Michael Lewis lost appears to have lost his starting job and now wants his outright release.
These only the cracks we see in the foundation. Who really knows what happens behind the scenes. Don't forget GM Scott McCloughan left suddenly with no real explanation in March.
A perfect storm might be brewing in San Francisco conspiring to the Singletary regime soon. The 49ers play in one of the weaker divisions and many already crowned them champs. The team has fallen short of expectations for years now. A few more losses and Singletary might get the boot. The schedule does no favors as they play at Atlanta and host Philadelphia. The 49ers might be 0-5 after that stretch with the Raiders coming across the Bay for a game. A loss or poor showing might just finish off Singletary.
Midseason coaching changes are rare but the 49ers have done it recently. Usually if a midseason change is coming, teams wait until the open date. Singletary might not make it that far.
Animal House Strikes, Again
Just when you think the NY Jets had things under control on and off the field, Braylon Edwards drags the team back into the spotlight again for the wrong reasons.
Police pulled Edwards over for having to dark a tint on his windows. The police ended up arresting Edwards on suspicion of driving under the influence.
The Jets decided to "punish" Edwards by benching him for a quarter in last week's game. GM Mike Tannenbaum stated the punishment wasn't for the DUI but for being out late. I think the one quarter time out made the Jets look foolish. I would have much more understood had the Jets said they will wait for the case to work through the legal system before deciding what to do with Edwards. The quarter sit down and the excuse it was for being out late make a mockery of the seriousness of the situation.
NFL Stat Line of the Week
Leon Washington - RB/KR Seattle
4 Kick off returns for a total of 253 yards, 2 TDs (101 and 99 yards) for an average of 63.3 yards per return.
NFL Player of the Week
After scoring only 10 points in each of the first two games, the Ravens finally found their offense. Anquin Bolden earns this week's award for 142 yards on 8 catches for 3 TDs to ignite a stagnated Ravens offense.
JaMarcus Russell Player of the Week
David Garrard - QB Jacksonville
A week after getting bench, Garrard responded with an anemic 13-30 passing for 105 yards. Behind Garrard's leadership, the Jags only managed a field goal.
Joe Pisarcik Player/Coach of the Week
Mike Singletary - Head Coach 49ers
I'm changing the award to make just about everybody eligible for this one...from GMs, coaches and players. Singletary wins this week due to the flat out awful performance against the Chiefs. The 49ers are a few more blow out loses away from an interim head coach.
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