Saturday, November 23, 2013

Duke University...Football

Yes this is a blog about football, and I am talking about Duke University........Let that marinate for a second.



The Blue Devils notched their ninth win of the season with an ACC victory over Wake Forest a little over an hour ago to put them at 9-2 on the year.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    You know the last time time they had this many victories in a season!? ..1941.

Under head coach David Cutcliffe who was hired in 2007 this is now their third strait season of bowl eligibility.

This is the same program which only had 3 ...count it on one hand... 3 winning seasons prior to 2008. To say the Duke football program was irrelevant is putting it lightly....very very lightly.


Brandon Connette and Anthony Boone who play in a dual quarterback system are not household names but each have over 1,000 yards passing and at least 5 touchdowns.

Running back by committee where they each have at least 300 yards rushing and those same three running backs have a combined 15 touchdowns between each of them.

Jamison Crowder who is barley 5'9 is their standout receiver with 956 yards and 3 touchdowns, one of five receivers that have at least two touchdown catches.

A Defense that ranks 68th in the FBS standings which is solid...bend but don't break.

Now I am not saying this is one of the best teams in all of college football because they are far from a powerhouse.

I just have to give props to a program that has turned its tradition around for the better. Duke football was once stranded on life support but they are back on the map.

And how fitting is it that a win over UNC is all that is standing in their way from clinching a spot in the ACC championship game....A classic rivalry moves from the hardwood to the turf?


Last but not least with that being said coach Cutcliffe deserves some national coach of the year consideration..real talk..I see you Blue Devils!





Thursday, November 14, 2013

TNF Another Opponent With Nothing To Lose for Indy

An AFC South showdown tonight?

Not so much but my...yes i said "my" Indianapolis Colts need to avoid taking another opponent to lightly for the second straight week.

After a 38-8 home loss where the team simply looked like a deer in headlights,a  couple things must change heading into this Thursday night.

The ground game MUST get going. Over the passed two games Indy only has 28 rushing attempts. That do to the fact that they have been down early in both games but running back Trent Richardson, a guy who I was very excited about when we traded for him has only 250 yards in the seven games since we acquired him. 

NOT GUNA CUT IT

With the balanced approach Andrew Luck should have a chance to get off to a better start. He doesn't have bad numbers this season by any means putting up 2,198 yards with 14tds to only 6 interceptions. BUT, He's a combined 15-35 for 149 yards in the first half of the last two games.

AGAIN..NOT GUNA CUT IT

I expect these things to happen tonight, avoid the slow start along with T.Y Hilton continuing to show he can be a lead receiver as he has caught 14 passes for 251 yards and three touchdowns since the veteran all pro Reggie Wayne went out for the season.

The only nice things I have to say about Tennessee? They are a CJ 2K run away from breaking the game open and that defense which is ranked in the top 10 is nothing to disrespect.

Other than that my bias is on full blast tonight!...Colts Get back on track tonight 24-17


One Man's Trash is Another Man's Treasure

Just I speculated and hoped it was not the end of the road for future Hall Of Famer Ed Reed yesterday, the New York Jets swoop in and pick up the recently cut safety.

Jets have been known to do this in recent history picking up Ladainian Tomlinson and Jason Taylor just to name a couple who were seen to be at the end of the road in their careers.

You can bet your bottom dollar Rex Ryan and company will find a way to utilize Ed's skill set whether its in packages or situationally to bolster up that top 10 ranked defense as they make their push for the playoffs.

I hope it works out as closet fan of the local J E T S JETS JETS JETS.....welcome to NY

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

My take on the Jonathan Martin Issue

The story of offensive tackle Jonathan Martin, Richie Incognito and the Miami Dolphins has been in the headlines of the NFL for a few weeks now.

The issue of bullying, hazing and an unhealthy work environment are all the reasons combined as to why Martin has taken action and removed himself from the team indefinitely.

All the facts of the case have not been brought to the forefront as the league is conducting further investigation with Dolphins management as well as a face to face sit down with the former Dolphins linemen himself.

Watching the interview between Jay Glazer and Richie Incognito, I took from it a man who was upfront, a man who was sorry, a man who is simply a football "meat head"..even though he denied that specific term.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTqT9wHAq3s

As a football player since grade school there is no other team sport(besides hockey and rugby) where gladiator and out right spartan type behavior is excepted and accepted as long as it is within the rules and regulations.

A sport where behaving like an animal is looked upon as a positive.

Locker rooms filled with players of different ethnic backgrounds form a bond, a brotherhood and cliques amongst each other. Star players usually hang together, bench guys have their bond and so on and so forth.

Thick skin is developed as early as the first time your teammates get on you for getting "Layed Out". Or getting called soft by your head coach.


It as been engraved in the culture for years and years, the wild antics, the vulgar language, even as recent as Riley Coopers use of the "N" word in the off season to the case we have in front of us now.

I've known and played with many of Richie Incognitos but have never been in the predicament of a Jonathan Martin because as an African American and the way I was raised? I wouldn't not allow it.

Maybe that was all that was needed in this situation was for Martin to step up and say enough is enough. Some argue the fact that he should of had thicker skin.

Is it also a possibility though that it is not easy for some of us speak up or even step up?...If that's the case it doesn't sound like much of a brotherhood to me.

In a sport where I described earlier where "animalistic" behavior is accepted maybe there needs to be a culture change. We must remember this is the same league where off the field issues and arrests are at an all time high.

The priority of the NFL players, as professional athletes should be to do their jobs and conduct themselves as role models on and off the field...No?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    
A healthy work environment would sure contribute to that.

We won't know anything until all the facts are out but I will say one thing. Many of us who don't stand for what we truly believe fall right into the trap of accepting whats taking place in front of us and that is whether you like it or not. Not being authentic, not stepping up and pretending to be "one of the guys" until....well this happens.

I'm not sure who I want to say is at fault in this situation.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  I know for a fact that in a league filled with grown men, internal problems should be able to be resolved in house and that "Beast" in all of us should be saved for on the field going to battle with your brothers.


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Check out NFL Columnist and ESPN contributor Jarret Bell's take on this situation as well via USA Today: http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/dolphins/2013/11/12/jonathan-martin-richie-incognito-miami-dolphins-bullying-incident/3511447/






End of The Road For The HOF Safety??

News broke earlier this week that the Texans cut their veteran free agent safety Ed Reed after signing him to a three year deal in the off season.

After a 2-7 start to the season and demoting the  9 time pro- bowler to second string the right move presumably was to go younger, save money and cut the disgruntled safety.

"We were out coached and outplayed" were his recent comments following a 24-27 loss at the hands of the Arizona Cardinals.

The move in the long term may pan out to be a good one for the Texans as they are now in search for a franchise quarterback being that Matt Schaub has had a season to forget to say the least..

My question is though, will any contender pick up the 35 year old future all of fame safety as a rental for a small price for the remainder of the season? Coming off of off season hip surgery a slow start while rounding into form had to be expected, but I'm sure this is not the way he had hoped on going out. I think he has some juice left in the tank but maybe he should of taken the route of his former teammate Ray Lewis.

If this is the end of the road for "The Ball Hawk".. I salute arguably the greatest safeties of all time and my personal favorite to watch make play after play over the years.




Thursday, November 7, 2013

Thursday Night Football....All About the Number 12

Customarily my "Thursday Night Football" entries are about the current NFL match up which is taking place in the week. On this Thursday however, a switch of pace was warranted. No need to get into why RGIII and the Redskins must avoid laying an egg in Minnesota, not only further damaging my fantasy roster and  hindering their chances for their playoff hopes for their teams sake. Lets talk a good brand of football and tonight? it's in the college game.

#5 Baylor hosts #10 Oaklahoma (BIG 12)

With two players on the  Heisman watch list, quarterback Bryce Petty and running back Lache Steastunk Baylor's offense is putting up video game stats averaging 718 yards per game and 63.9 points per game as a unit.The knock on Baylor is that they have yet to be tested because of a perceived weak schedule, we will find out how real they are soon enough. Baylor is 1-21 all time against Oklahoma with their first meeting dating back to 1901. That one win? You guessed it, in 2011 lead by RGIII.

A confident group though are these guys from Baylor


#6 Stanford hosts the #2 Oregon Ducks (Pac 12)

Marcus Mariota is leading the Heisman race this season 2,281 passing yards 20 touchdowns with 0 interceptions and you can't forget about his 9 touchdowns with his legs. Unfortunately for him and his Ducks, recent history has shown in this rivalry with Stanford that undefeated seasons have been spoiled. If your a betting man? Or a fan of Jamies Winston and the Florida St. Seminoles? Your hoping history repeats itself and Stanford pulls the upset.


BCS and Heisman chances are at stake tonight. Enjoy the Games


Monday, November 4, 2013

Heisman Watch...No Love for the small schools??

I rarely get a the chance to write on college football like I want but don't get it twisted, I am tuned in every week. My bias is only towards my alma matter Robert University, a small 1AA football program out in Moon Township PA where I was recruited to play defense back way back when when I was wet behind the ears.
NEC Stand UP
                                                                                                                                                                    I watch the college game for the standout players, no other way to put it, the young men that will one day be lining up on Sundays getting paid the big bucks. That being said this years Heisman race looks like it will come down to the final weeks, as it should. The front runners as of now are Marcus Mariota, quaterback from Orgeon,Jameis Winston, freshman quarterback for Florida St. and last years winner, quaterback Johnny Manziel of Texas A&M. See the full list http://espn.go.com/college-football/heisman13/                                                                                                                                                                                    Teddy Brdgewater's stock has dropped after a tough home loss to UCF and a perceived lack of strength in Lousville's schedule. I say he's done what he has supposed aside from that one hickup.

My one beef with the list is there is one name left off and that is Northern Illinois senior quarterback Jordan Lynch. I know blow out wins against Central Michigan, UMass, Purdue etc. etc. don't pop off the screen and scream Heisman. But there is something that HAS to be said for a guy who has thrown for 1,871 yards with 19 touchdowns and who has ran for 1,150 yards with 12 TD's through 8 GAMES. Regardless if he plays for a non- major school in the Mid-American Conference, the dude is flat out "Ballin". And I am hoping he gains the respect and attention he deserves from the voters. ...Experts they call themselves..



Thursday, October 31, 2013

Halloween Thursday Night Football

Halloween 2013 we are treated to the 6-2 Bengals vs. the 3-4 Miami Dolphins. Bengals seem to be running away with the AFC North, as the Dolphins season has been...well, like this guy

Winners of three strait to start the season, and now currently on a four game slide and sitting at third place in jeopardy of falling into a tie for last with the Bills who have already beaten them. The Dolphins kinda sorta need this game to stay alive if not for the division, at least for the wild card down the road as it will be difficult (but not impossible) To catch the Pats.

On the other side, the Bengals are starting to flex their muscles...kind of like this guy
                                                                                                                                                              with wins over the Patriots, Steelers (Division win regardless of record) Packers, Lions and the dismantling of the Jets a week ago, if you don't know by now? Cincinnati is pretty darn good. Ranking in the top ten in both total offense and defense as a team, not even to begin to mention the individual standouts they have. Marvin Jones had the big game a week ago and A.J Green gets the majority of the headlines but they have another wide out who remains in my starting lineup in two of my three fantasy teams, and that is my former high school teammate and Rutgers standout Mohamed Sanu. Not only is this done out of the respect I have for the dude but mark my words HE WILL HAVE A BREAK OUT GAME...it's only a matter of time. And I'm hoping tonight may just be that night.

A stat which favors the Dolphins going into tonight is on Thursday Night Football games this season with all games combined, the home or away teams have yet to win more than two in a row (3 Home, 4 Away). If the Trend continues? Dolphins pull off the upset victory tonight.

BUT, I'm going with my conventional wisdom tonight. Dolphins keep it close until Bengals get a key turnover late and pull away 35-24 and Sanu gives my fantasy team a treat with two touchdowns! Enjoy the game and Happy Halloween!



Any chance the "Phins" pull this win out, this is how they MUST play:http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/10/31/3721643/miami-dolphins-vs-cincinnati-bengals.html


Wednesday, October 30, 2013

4'9 Running Back Gets His First Career Carry



My entire life my father has constantly reminded me of the quote "Excuses are tools of the incompetent, built on monuments of nothing, those who use them? Sell them good for nothing." Vexatious as it was over time, it was what I needed to hear for a kid who for no good reason, liked to make excuses. This passed weekend I was reminded of those words when I read what happened at the end of Rice's big victory over UTEP. With 6 minutes remaining in the game entered 4'9 running back Jayson Carter. The miniature sophomore back who suffers from a growth disorder spends most of his time working with the practice squad. He has had a life long dream to play college football and this passed Saturday? His number was called ...what a special moment it was. 

Talk about Heart...




NFC Defensive player of the Week

Terrell Thomas of the New York Giants is this weeks NFC defensive player of the week. The 6th year cornerback from UFC recorded 11 tackles, a sack and a forced fumble while playing every snap on the field in the Giants win over the Eagles Sunday. Terrell is a perfect example of how to persevere in times of dismay or doubt, after 3 ACL tears and missing two full seasons it would be common human nature to call it quits. Not a household name and no Adidas campaign centered around his comebacks yet, each time under the knife he made a decision that he was not ready to give in.  Not when you have the drive and determination like this guy, and to simply be out there on the field is a blessing. Congrats on the award Terrell, you are the silver lining in the Giants foggy season thus far....seriously , I have "mad respect" for the dude.

                                         

          Musical Inspiration:                                                                                                                                                         

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Thursday Night Football Panthers @ Buccaneers

3-3 vs 0-6 is what we are treated to this Thurdays Night football, the week before Halloween....well  the ones that chose too...but just don't go running yet... We have a team with a former number 1 overall draft pick, same cat known for the infamous "Superman" Touchdown dance, taking on a team, the same team that acquired the "best corner in the league" aka "Revis Island" this off season, a safety in Dashon Goldson to bolster up that already top 5 rush defense, the SAME TEAM that had the number 5 leading rusher in the all of football as a rookie....start the season 0-6. Ok, I'll admit as purely a football fan this is not what I expected  from Tampa Bay coming into the year and as I even begin to dissect or even discuss what has happened with the Bucs?  Let me start by saying this is a must win game  for the Carolina Panthers...I repeat MUST WIN. An NFC South divisional game, on the road, lets see if the Panthers are for real. The Panthers have a top 5 ranked defense so far in the early season, 3rd in total defensive statistics to be exact. Facing a rookie quarterback, I look for the Panthers defense to make their mark. Look for linebackers Thomas Davis, and Luke Kuechly be active early and often, shutting  down a rush attack that will most likely not have Doug Martin featured. Saftey's Mike Mitchell, Robert Lester and corner-back's Captain Munnerlyn and company will have to be on the same page because who wants to bet they don't throw a few deep ones to Vincent Jackson?!?...Yeah I wouldn't make that bet neither... On the opposite side I would to see Cam Newton be efficient with his passing and decision making. Now his numbers so far aren't ground breaking but he has 10 touchdowns to only 5 interceptions with a 95. percent QB rating...not great but not bad in the same breath. And with that defense playing the way it is? Maybe he doesn't have to be great...not just yet. As for Tampa Bay? "I'ma" keep it short and simple if there is a weak link? And the head of the household is that link? Then down goes that household "yall gettin evicted" (sorry best I could come up with)...



Cam Newton wins big in this GQ photo shoot and Panthers make a statement on national television 35-17...

...As for the Buccaneers?? ..It's






Here's further pre- game break down along with some key match ups in tonight's game: http://www.buccaneers.com/news/article-1/Key-Matchups-Buccaneers-vs-Panthers/095e2920-cf45-4e14-8c6a-ff0727bbd13e

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Post Week 7 Power Rankings

Last week I posted a write up of the NFL power rankings written by Frank Schwab of the Shutdown Corner via Yahoo.com. Once again I am going with his rankings this week as a few things have shifted the landscape around the league. Unlike most write up's that I've read, I like the way Frank takes into consideration strength of schedule rather then just going with the Kansas City Chiefs at number 1 just because they're undefeated. This is far from the college system where that is the case for the most part, the NFL is a much different beast where we see more teams go from hot to cold and vice versa, espcially as only two teams in history finished the regular season undefeated. This week he back tracked on a few statements which I commented on a week ago but his apparent love for the Cowboys remains.. and I still don't agree with it..not one bit.. Like Steven A. Smith always  says...                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    
                                                      "they're an accident waiting to happen!"

Check out Frank Schwabs' post week 7 Power Rankings http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/shutdown-corner-nfl-power-rankings-where-does-nfl-050709533--nfl.html?vp=1

Shout-out to Devin Hester aka"The Windy City Flyer" for tying Deion Sanders all time returns record with his 19th Sunday against the Redskins. Two of my all time favorite players to watch Deion and now Devin are the greatest to ever do it in the return game...flawless technique,change of speed and patience, as well as a heck of a job by the other 10 guys on special teams that created the wall on this one! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PylYXnVjjCQ

On to Week 8!






Thursday, October 17, 2013

Thursday Night Football Upset

I'm going out on a limb on this one...blind folded and walking into a lions cage and predicting that the Arizona Cardinals will pull off an upset of the powerhouse Seahawks tonight. No its not because I have the Arizona defense in one of my fantasy leagues and its definitely not because I think they are the better team....I repeat, they are not the better team. There last meeting dating back to last season was a 58-0 annihilation in favor of the sea birds, so the percentages will not back my opinion but I will still "Say it wit mah chest!" Yes I'm talking about a Cardinals team ranked 15th in total defense, yes the same team ranked 26th in total offense and yes the team with a quaterback who has thrown 11 interceptions to 7 touchdowns...Yikes...  My logic or much rather madness has everything to do with the fact that it is a division game on a short week. The game is in Arizona which is another factor I think plays into my decision as the Seahawks seem to miss the spark from the 12th man away from home...I mean who wouldn't...but a 2-1 isn't a bad road record in the slightest bit. Here's the thing, Arizona has the defensive backs lead by Patrick Peterson capable of "man ing up" Seattle's wide- outs allowing more defenders in the box to slow down Beast mode and that run game. Larry Ftizgerald will finally win the one on one battle which has been dominated by Richard Sherman and the Cardinals will come away with a key turnover late in the game...possibly on the final drive. Arizona wins a close one 21-17




Here's a more in depth breakdown of why the cardinals will win written by Shaun Church of SB Nation...guess I'm not the only crazy onehttp://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2013/10/16/4843734/seahawks-cardinals-3-keys-arizona-week-7-seattle

Brandon Marshall fined for what!?

I was wondering why Brandon Marshall was wearing those highlighter green cleats during last weeks Thursday night game against the Giants. Turns out it wasn't a fashion statement, rather it was to bring attention to Mental Health awareness week, something Marshall himself has openly struggled with and undergone treatment/therapy for in his recent passed. The league chose to fine Marshall 10,500 for a "uniform violation" which is  slap on the wrist in NFL standards but I personally am upset with the league for taking such action. Mental Health awareness is an issue that should be taking seriously, especially in an NFL where we see more DUI's and criminal charges passed around then any other professional league we have in America. I applaud Marshall for how he handled the situation and I strongly suggest that the league pays better attention to this issue rather than fine a player for promoting a good cause.



Check the full storyhttp://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-10-16/sports/chi-chicago-bears-brandon-marshall-green-cleats-20131016_1_brandon-marshall-fine-tweets

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Jim Irsay said Peyton wasn't good enough!?

Colts owner Jim Irsay is not one who lacks the bravado when it comes to sharing his convictions,statements,  or predictions regarding his beloved Indianapolis Colts, just check his twitter feed. Heck,  Irsays' father was the conductor of the ship that drove the Colts out of Baltimore in 1984,"stealing them over night" while coincidentally using "Mayflower" moving vans in the process. Needless to say this brings me back to my original statement about not lacking the bravado moxi, "mojo" whatever you want to call it, it has trickled down from father to son. That being said his most recent comments about former Colts quarterback Peyton Manning are out of line, flagrantly disrespectful but on the flip side maybe... just maybe?.. An ingenious choice of words, a smoke screen or a speed bump attempt to throw off the focus of Peyton Manning before he returns to Indy this Sunday night. Taking a shot at the psyche that he knows the tactician, the perfectionist himself Peyton Manning worked his rear end off for year in and out. Mentioning getting bounced from the playoffs 7 out of 11 years that they made it in the first round, referring to other teams who have had multiple titles in that time span. Not even to mention all of those teams having top 10 defenses(Patriots,Pittsburgh, Giants, Baltimore) which Peyton never had while with the Colts, lets just throw that out the window...Yeah a load of horse dung for lack of a better phrase and self restraint from profanity...  So yea the Colts have "Changed their model" in the words of Irsay by going in a new direction and drafting Andrew Luck, another young quarterback ahead of his time, but they also have added a more balanced attack offensively and defensively, a much better compliment to an all pro QB and formula for a Super Bowl. So OK Irsay this 4 time league MVP, Super Bowl MVP, a guy who brought you 8 division championships, two AFC championships, more then a few 10 plus win seasons and just about every passing record in your teams history in 14 seasons, that guy underachieved?? I'm calling your bluff Irsay, although I get your angle but at the same time believe your team is capable of upsetting the Broncos without the below the belt shot at the future HOF QB... We'll see how well it works out Sunday night when number 18 comes running out of the visitors tunnel.

check the full story out: http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/john-fox-shoots-back-colts-owner-jim-irsay-232222845--nfl.html

Guess this was the look of an unsatisfied man when he left?...



I think not...one is hard enough to come by..


Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Jets Sign Josh Cribbs

News broke earlier today that the Jets have signed return specialist Josh Cribbs. How he was not in the league is surprising to say the least being every team outside of  Denver,KC, Dallas, Chicago and a couple(just a couple) others you can make an argument for could use him. The 30 year old was last cut from the Raiders before the season started. With 8 career kickoff returns for a TD he is tied for the all time record in league history. Maybe he wants to be at the top of that list by himself with a comeback with the Jets... I know Jet fans hope so.

check the full story: http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/jets/2013/10/jets-sign-wrkr-josh-cribbs

Think he still got it!?
                                                                                                                                                                      ...If any team has proven they can squeeze the last bit of life out of an aging star in recenrt years it has been the Jets....the J E T S Jets Jets Jets..We will see Playboy!




Post Week 6 Power Rankings

Check out the latest post week 6 NFL power rankings written up by Frank Schwab in the Shutdown Corner via yahoo.com. Some wisecracks in the direction of a few teams, as well as some well deserved praise.

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/shutdown-corner-nfl-power-rankings-patriots-done-far-040603643--nfl.html

For the most part I agree with where he has each team positioned. Chargers with an impressive win against my Colts last night. Ryan Mathews having one of his best games that I've seen on the ground as well as the emergence of rookie wide out Keenan Allen filling in that lead receiver role. Long day for Greg Toler to say the least.

The Jets could be a little higher but while they continue to build through the growing pains of rookie QB Geno Smith I think flying under the radar is right where they want to be.

Where I disagree

The Cowboys by no means should be written in with pen as the number 4 seed in the playoff as well as NFC champs. The huge losses of Demarcuss Ware and DeMarco Murray will come into play as 4 out of their next 5 games are on the road vs Eagles, Lions, Saints, and Giants (far from a gimme) with a home game against the Vikings slapped in the middle. AP can single handily beat you any given Sunday. The Cowboys are talented but I would suggest a pencil or dry erase would be suffice making that statement.

The Bears win against the Giants last week was not impressive, but a prideful team as well as one in desperation mode as the Giants will be for the rest of the season can beat you any week. A win is a win

Nick Foles is playing very well filling in for the injured Michael Vick. That being said his two victories came against teams with a combined win total of 0. I love the confidence from Foles as well as his ability to make throws from the pocket. That being said Vick contributes to that number one rushing attack in the NFL and a few less dropped passes can add to a higher completion percentage. Heck, I suggested playing them both before the season started but given poor the dual quarterback percentages a healthy Vick in my opinion is the better option for the "now" with the Eagles. Another big game from Foles against Dallas? Now we have reason to have that conversation.

Last but not least I disagree on the failed attempt of a tackle from Seahawks kicker Steven Hauschka...I respect the attempt but "Nah bro"...as well as holder Chris Maragos who only in this position due to the injury to Hauschka trying to have his one shining moment playing QB..again I say "Nah Bro"..

http://thebiglead.com/2013/10/13/steven-hauschka-seattle-kicker-got-trucked-trying-to-make-a-tackle-and-suffered-an-injury/

I encourage some feed back if you agree/disagree with these power rankings or my comments as another week in the books!


Friday, September 20, 2013

Why I was wrong about the Philadelphia Eagles

Andy Reid in his illustrious return to Philly gets the win 26-16, Chiefs improve to 3-0 and the Eagles now have lost 2 strait on their home field. But what I took from the game was far from what I expected. Going into the game my initial thoughts were if the Eagles protect the ball and get their offense going the Chiefs wouldn't be able to keep up. If the opposite were to occur the Chiefs would be able to play efficiently enough to control the clock and keep Philly out of rhythm. My issue with Philly is solely based on their defensive unit and the piss poor effort they displayed a week prior against the San Diego Chargers. In my mind there was no way the Eagles could turn the ball over and stand a chance...just no way....but i was wrong. In an Eagles loss I saw some encouraging things going forward, especially in that vulnerable NFC East were taking the reins of first place is like running away from the kid with "Cooties" during recess in elementary school. Here are some key stats I took from last night.


 Sacks: Chiefs- 5 (Derrick Johnson .5, Justin Houston 3.5(Game Ball), Tamba Hali 1

             Eagles - 5(Nate Allen 1, Fletcher Cox 1, Trent Cole 1, Vinny Curry 1, Brandon Graham 1)

Eagles showed the ability to get to the quarterback and it was done by committee. The 5 sacks equals the total number they had combined coming into the game last night. They were effective and fast, getting stops on third downs(Chiefs 6-18 oin 3rd down situations) and as well as in scoring opportunities(Chiefs 1-6 in the red zone)...until the forth quarter when they really needed one..but at the same time it shouldn't have been on their shoulders. None the less it was contrary to what I thought before hand and that is a promising sign going forward. They showed they were capable, they showed they showed the potential to be consistent.

On they other side of the Ball we saw Justin Houston combine the attributes of Lawrence Taylor and J.J Watt. Not only the 3.5 sacks but also added 3 pass deflections, he disrupted the Eagles game plan all night. The third year linebacker from Georgia is  "chompin at the bit" to be recognized amongst the elite linebackers in the game.


Turnovers: Chiefs - 0
             
               Eagles - 5

5 turnovers will lose you just about any football game especially when the other team doesn't commit one. Two interceptions I'm sure Vick would love to have back and three lost fumbles, yet they were still a stop away from getting the ball back in the forth with an opportunity to score to go ahead.

Run Game: Chiefs - 147 yards ( J. Charles 93, Alex Smith 33, Knile Davis 25)

                   Eagles - 260 yards ( Mccoy 158, Vick 95, Brown 7)

This is the area of the game where altough the Eagles dominated, I think there could have been much separation created in this stat. Mccoy's numbers came on 20 carries which is around his avg. number of carries on the season. Michael Vick on the other hand, his yards came on 5 carries (4 mainly with the final one being a four yard loss) for 95 yards. Vick was 13- 30  through the air for only 201 yards as his main man  Desean Jackson being blanketed up for most of the night(Only 62 yards receiving). With that being said I believe those numbers would have enhanced his efficiency had Vick taken off more often.

Final Thoughts

I would of never thought the Eagles would have had 5 turnovers, Michael Vick would struggle passing, the Eagles defense would step up...for the most part..... and they would lose a close one. In a second strait home loss its tough to say there is a light at the end of the tunnel but if the Eagles fine tune a couple of areas I believe they can get back on track. Their defense needs to continue to be on the rise and the offense has to take what the defense gives them and eliminate those self inflicting wounds. Defensively they did enough last night to get a win...more then enough. I for one did not expect much out of that unit, and offensively I don't expect 5 turnover from the Eagles offense on a weekly bases.

On the other side, have the Chiefs arrived? Their 3-0 and they should feel good about themselves but I would pump the breaks before you check them off as playing at Met Life come Super Bowl time. Yes Jamall Charles is a beast, Alex Smith makes all the smart plays and doesn't turn the ball over. Their defense is young and athletic. But I' not sold on Donnie Avery getting 120 yard plus receiving yards every game with all his catches seeminging to come on third and longs especially late in the game. I get he stepped  up and exploited the Eagle defense with  the attention drawn to Dwayne Bowe and Charles out of the backfield. We also must remember they play in the same division as Peyton Manning, The Lightning Bolts, and the Oakland Pryors'.They came in with a good strategy so they deserve the credit, no mistakes on offense, and cause disruption on defense, even if it meant laying on the field faking an injury to stop the Eagles momentum ..tuche Andy Reid ..tuche


                 


Thursday, September 19, 2013

Quick Thoughts from week 2 and Thursday Night Football

After week 2 of the NFL season I question how much separation has been created between the 0-2 teams the 2-0's and the 1-1's. Has is been much? Lets take a look

0-2: AFC- Steelers, Browns Jaguars
       NFC- Panthers, Redskins, Vikings, Giants, Buccaneers

Only two of these teams were playoff squads from last season being the Skins and Vikings. Out of this group I believe the Redskins and possibly the Steelers may have the best chance to turn their season around. Both divisions up for grab in the NFC East, as an 8-8 record or a 9-7 may just put you in first place(which gives every team in that division a fighters chance realistically). As for the team from "The Burg" as much as it pains me to say, the Steelers have issues with their offensive line and their offensive coordinator Todd Haley...heck, how about a running game! Their loyalty to the son of Dick Haley who put together those great Steeler championship teams from the 1971-90. The relationship has just not worked out and unless Big Ben is given more of the reins to play his "backyard football" style of play, the proud Steelers franchise will be on the outside looking in for a second strait season. But just like the NFC East, the AFC North is a division of great rivalries where anything outside of the Browns winning it can happen.. ....Cleveland, Cleveland all I can say is thank you, and I will get to that shortly.

2-0's : AFC- Patriots, Dolphins,Texans, Chiefs, Broncos
          NFC- Bears, Saints, Seahawks

Every team in this group I expect to be in the playoff hunt. Broncos,Texans and Seahawks are my clear cut standouts for locks come playoff time. The Pat's have to get healthy and the Dolphins believe they can surprise some people...well many many people.. Saints have the Falcons standing in their way, although they already beat them once week one. The Bears have Packers, Lions and even the Vikings who can still beat you any given Sunday because of #28 in the backfield. I see the Seahawks being the most dangerous team out of the pack,coming a game short of the NFC championship a season ago. I believe their goal is to secure home filed advantage and ride the wave of "The 12th Man" to the Super Bowl. We will see how they continue to fair on the road as they played a close one against the Panthers week 1.

1-1's: AFC - Jets, Bills, Bengals, Ravens, Colts, Titans, Raiders, Chargers
         NFC- Cowboys, Eagles, Packers, Lions, Falcons, Rams, 49ers, Cardinals

My locks out of this group would be the Bengals who I believe will win the AFC North and the 9ers who as we all know represented the NFC in the Super Bowl a season ago. Packers and Falcons will be in the hunt to win their division as well as the fighting chance for the Eagles and Cowboys who I already briefly discussed. Cardinals and Rams have improved but still have to dethrone the Seahawks an 9ers as the "top dawgs" in the division. Chargers, Raiders are looking up to the Chiefs (who we well get to see tonight ) and the Broncos the favorites to win the AFC West. Ravens will improve defensively but their offense has still been on snooze mode, the injury to Ray Rice dose not good news either. Jets and Bills have every opportunity to make ground on the Patriots who are still looking for answers but both have rookie quaterbacks they are leaning on. The AFC east will continue to be intruiging until the Pats get their act together. Titans seemed as if they rushed Jake Locker into the starting role and I'm not sold he can lead the Titans, although talented, to a playoff birth. My Colts who I try to avoid gloating about in my blog just received the biggest gift via trade from the Cleveland Browns. It's been running back by commitee since the days of Edgerrin James aka "Edge" aka one of my favorite running backs of all time. Although Vick Ballard showed some promise a season ago and the signing of Ahmad Bradshaw was key, in the words of the famous southern rapper Ludacriss "MOVE B**CH..GET OUT THE WAY"..because we finally got our guy in the backfield.


"Yall don't hear me though"

Week 3 starts 2night! .. Will Andy Reid get a victory back in the home of his former franchise? Or will the Eagles be able to "run and gun" themselves enough of a lead to put the game out of reach. 






Thursday, September 12, 2013

Week 1 Thoughts

Week one of the new season is in the books. What have we learned so far? Here are some notes I took from the games I watched:

Broncos vs. Ravens

Peyton Manning 7TDs...Joe Flacco showed off his new contract by throwing the ball 62 times..not a formula for success for the Ravens.

Packers vs 49ers

Clay Mathews was more than ready for the read option. As he said in the off season, he would make sure he attacked and hit Kaepernick instead of "Dancing around" with the read option. He hit Kap, late and even sacked him. As it turned out, Kaepernicks' legs were a minuscule part in the 9er's game plan as he gashed them for 412 yards through the air and 3 TD's. Boldin played his rear end off as well, one of the best opening day performances from a receiver that I can recall.

Jets vs Buc's

Geno Smith gets the win in his rookie debue. I'm not going to blow smoke, I doubted and was pleasantly surprised by a Jets win. Geno showed poise in the pocket, the ability to not force and take what the defense gave him. Throwing for 256, a TD and 1 interception (a number I thought could possibly be in the 2-3 range)  Geno made plays with his arm and his legs which he is not so much known for. I'd like to see the Jets lean to trust Geno more in third down situations and use less of the "wildcat" formation as the season progresses. After a short week we don't have to wait long to see whats next for him and the Jets as they take on New England tonight. Call me a bandwagon fan because I'm rooting for a Jets win. It's hard to root against Rex Ryan and company, especially after I read this article, check it out http://finance.yahoo.com/news/rex-ryan-once-motivated-players-141954772.html I'd play for a head coach like that any day.

Giants vs. Cowboys

Giants had 6 turnovers ..and lost the game by 5 points. Romo played solid and put his defense in position to close the game out. That may need to be their formula for success because if it's on Romo's watch to finish?  The jury is still out.Not sold on the Cowboys, Giants work on not gift wrapping games for the opposing team they should improve. P.S, David Wilson stop responding to your twitter haters and focus on holding the rock bro.

Eagles vs Skins

Miachael Vick and the Eagles offense looked fast and explosive. Eagles defense looked blitz happy not allowing RGIII to get in a rhythm ...until he got in one and things got a little weary for Eagle fans. Can Philly keep the pedal to the medal offensively is my question. Will Mike Vick learn to slide feet first or will it be the countdown before he takes a season ending blow. Defensively? They're not going to play against a rusty who sat out an entire pre season after quarterback coming off  major knee surgery.

Patriots vs Bills

Bills played well all game, took the lead but could not convert when it counted with a key drop from Stevie Johnson. E.J Manuel kept the ball out of the Patriot defenses' hands as well as Buffalos' defense forcing 3 turnovers. When you have the Pat's on the ropes you have to deliver the knockout blow, Bills didn't do that putting up a donut in the forth quarter. I still believe they have the ability to surprise some teams.

Texans vs. Chargers

Chargers got out to a surprising 28-14 lead with 15 min remaining in the game. 17 unanswered points from the end of the third through the end of the forth and a late pick six from linebacker Brian Cushing tied the game. Philip Rivers started pressing, most likely due to the lack of trust he has in his offensive weapons. Texans woke up just in time to avoid a disappointing loss.
                                                                                                                                                              Other Quick Notes from around the league:

Drew Breese and Sean Peyton have been reunited like the Peaches and Herb herb classic. Quality win against a division foe who hosted the NFC championship a year ago. A running game has still yet to be established and defensively they've always been middle to bottom half of the pack at best.

My Colts got the win, Andrew Luck has ice water in his veins... Terelle Prior is dangerous... but he's still on the Raiders.

Larry Fitzgerald finally has a quarterback capable of getting him the rock, he and Carson Palmer connected for two very nice TD's BUT, Rams scored 14 unanswered in the forth quarter to complete the come from behind victory at home. Sam Bradford played solid, Rookie Tavon Austin and running back Daryl Richardson looked promising, TE Jared Cook had a big day.

Steelers are still on summer vacation.

Adrain Peterson explodes on the scene with 78 yard TD run on his first carry...Chritian Ponder looked as if he has regressed, both the offensive and defensive lines groups of the Vikings were man handled by Detroit and Reggie Bush stole the show.

Bradon Weeden may be better off throwing to himself , deflected passes, a couple off of receivers hands lead to 3 interceptions(DB Dimitri Patterson recording 2 of them). Second year quarterback Ryan Tannehill had no turnovers, a TD and 272 yards passing. Brian Hartline had a big day, not so much for newly acquired wideout Mike Wallace who had 1 reception for 15 yards. Defensive end Cameron Wake also had a big day with 2.5 sacks.

Bears Bengals played a close one. Andy Dalton and A.J Green connected early and often as did Cutler and Marshall. Turnovers were the issue for the Bengals against the Bears ball hawking defense lead by DB's Charles Tillman and Tim Jennings. Bengals let an 11 point lead slip and a late TD from Cutler to Marshall sealed the deal. Key stat for Bears? Jay Cutler sacked 0 times.

An ugly 12-7 victory from the Seahawks over the Panthers. Nothing flashy in this game another ball hawking defense, saftey Earl Thomas jarred the ball away from Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams in crunch time to allow the Seahawks to get out of Carolina with the Victory. Russel Wilson had no turnovers and a 43 yard touchdown pass earlier in the forth to second year wideout Jermaine Kearse to take the lead...well that was the flash as that TD catch was sick with it, snagging it over two defenders.

Alex Smith and Andy Reid start the year off right in KC with a 28-2 victory over the Jaguars...yea enough said.

A Little "Sumn sumn" from all 16.






Monday, September 9, 2013

Tim Tebow Receives a Contract Offer

After being cut by the New England Patriots there has been little to no interest by other NFL teams to bring the embryonic quarterback aboard. Whether its a lack of belief that he can play the position or avoiding the distraction of "Tebowmania" it looks like if Tim wants the chance to prove the doubters and the nay sayers wrong he's just going to have to take his talents elsewhere. That might just be the case as news has hit via Usatoday.com that the AFL's LA expansion team owned by legendary rock band KISS has offered Tebow a three year contract apparently "worth millions". This is not the route Tebow hoped to take I am sure but hey, Kurt Warner created a blue print and if Tebow lights it up? He might just get his chance in the NFL again. Im rooting for ya Tim.



Check the full story http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2013/09/09/tim-tebow-la-kiss-job-offer-arena-football/2788261/

Thursday, September 5, 2013

NFL Is Back



NFL football is back tonight!. The defending champion Baltimore Ravens go into high altitude of Mile High stadium...that same stadium where Flaccos' hail marry heave left over 76,000 shocked..stunned en route to their second championship in the conclusion of the Ray Lewis era....

This live footage and the females reaction says its all..........hilarious and I must say I shared those same sentiments at the time.
At least Bronco Nation can say that was last season and its on to the next one. Tonight the Broncos have a chance at revenge right out the gate.

The 2013 Ravens are in the new look phase as they lost eight starters from last seasons SB team, the most not returning ever for a defending champion. No more Ray Lewis in the middle of the field, no more Ed Reed defending the deep ball. The faces of that defense that we've known for years will no longer be on the field, saying it will be an adjustment on our eyes as well as on for the players on the field  is an understatement. The additions on the other hand have been younger and less expensive signings for example, DT Chris Canty, saftey Michael Huff, and picked up Elvis Dummerville from the Broncos like a 100$ bill causally lying in the parking lot of a supermarket are 30,30 and 29 years old respectively. Offensively they lost Anquan Boldin and made Joe Flacco the third highest paid QB in the league. http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/79079/flacco-is-now-nfls-third-highest-paid-qb Ray Rice and second year back Bernard Pierce are still in the backfield, speedster Torrey Smith and Jacoby Jones at wide out and  Ed Dickson and recently signed Dallas Clark for the injured Dennis Pitta.

The Broncos are the ones coming into tonight's game with revenge on their minds. In their home opener nothing would alleviate some of that awful taste from last season then a Bronco win tonight. Peyton Manning in town was brought to town in biggest change of scenery for a quarterback since Joe Montana was traded t to Kansas City in 93. They went 13-3 regular season, number one seed in the AFC, John Elway in the booth every so often the camera pans up just to let you know the legend is in the building. This was the team who "everybody and they moma" thought were going to at least get to the SB....As i stated before that was last season and its on to the next one.

The 2013 Broncos add Wes Welker aka "Slot Machine" on offense but lose defensive freak Von Miller for the first six games due to breaking the leagues substance abuse policy.

                                                                                                                                                              The vet. and one of my personal favorite corners of all time Champ Bailey will also be out tonight with a foot injury  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000238293/article/champ-bailey-to-sit-out-denver-broncos-season-opener.

Recently signed and former Eagle Domnique Rodgers-Cromartie along with 3rd year corner Chris Harris will be expected to receive the work load tonight. 
The Broncos also looked to fill the void on the opposite side of Miller(when he returns) by signing  sack specialist Shaun Phillips and drafting Quanterus Smith out of Western Kentucky in the 5th round of last years draft. 
A position on the field I will also be on who takes the reigns in the backfield, who will step up and "Tote the rock". Knownshawn Moreno has yet to prove he can stay healthy, Ronnie Hilman has the big play ability but hasn't necessarily proved he can be an every down back with that 195lb frame. Rookie running back Montee Ball from Wisonsin might have the prime opportunity and situation to make a splash in the scene and throw himself in the mix for offensive rookie of the year.

With that being said the NFL season is finally back my friends! I am expecting a fired up competitive game......for the first three quarters. Broncos pull away in the forth 31 -21. 

Look for these two to get familiar


What do think their talking about?.....I bet it's something along the lines of "Gee Brain Whata want to do today ??!?" "Same Thing we do everyday Pinky...Pick apart the defense!"

LETS GO



Saturday, August 31, 2013

Adios Tebow

Surprise Surprise, Tim Tebow has been released by the Patriots. This doesn't come so much as a surprise to be being that he has been the number three quarterback on a Patriots team with Tom Brady and third year qb Ryan Mallet who has done enough to prove himself worthy of the back up spot. Never the void of media coverage with Tebow although it  has  been about everything but his play on the football field. He's a great guy I get it, and he did have a good outing in the final pre- season game BUT New England may have done him the biggest favor by bringing him in to see how a HOF Qb gets is done. They also may have done him a favor by releasing him before he spent another season on the sideline holding a clipboard. With that being said its about time Jacksonville brings  their home town hero in the mix...they have Nothing...I repeat NOTHING to lose.


Thursday, August 29, 2013

College Football Season Kickoff

The college football season begins tonight! As universities, alumni, and die hard fans gear up to cheer for these unpaid athletes that generate millions of dollars for their universities,this thursday has 17...count em..17 games to kick off the new season. http://espn.go.com/college-football/schedule

Now as football pumps through my veins, when it comes to College football I'm more about the "bandwagon" then the love many of you spew over one particular university.

I watch in anticipation of those players who will take their game to All- American NFL draft prospect status. The special ones that elevate their game to Heisman caliber "ala" Reggie Bush(I don't care he gave it back the season he had was special), Cam Newton,  RGIII, Tim Tebow, Johnny Manziel all special offensive talents.

This season there's a different smell in the air...it kinda makes your nose itch a little....and it's coming from South Carolina...The young mans name is Jadeveon Clowney. The junior defensive end who is all ready being called " A once in a decade " prospect by many if not all NFL Gm's and has already been linked to being targeted by Jay-Z's Roc Nation agency.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Since Charles Woodson in 1997 a defensive player has yet to win the prestigious award which we recently just witnessed Johnny Football trade in for a Lamborghini.....just kidding.... maybe...well, you tell me what you think? ..
 ok im done...

Right out the gate we  get a chance to witness the beast himself as Clowney and the No.6 Gamecocks take on North Carolina at 6pm on ESPN. With a couple other intriguing ones tonight with Rutgers at 10:30 and USC vs Hawaii at 11, UNC vs SC is the perfect prime time start to the year. It's rare that I watch a game solely for a defensive player let alone a linemen(that takes nothing away from the respect I have for those positions)...But I'm telling you, if you don't know who Jadeveon Clowney is you better be on your "P's and Q's" and get familiar whenever number 7 is on the field.



When you hear that drumline?? Oh it's game time!


Enjoy the start of the season!




Madden 25 Throwback Thursday Style

It's Throwback Thursday and I felt it was only right to pay homage to Madden 25 which was just released a few days ago. Now in order to do that and for the sake of contributing to the day where people blow up your news feeds with photos from when we were the ages where everything was flat out JUST MORE FUN........                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      I have annually "re-upped" on my Madden fix since 2001.  Some "Madden Heads" might take offense to that statement because from PC to Sega, Sega Saturn, Playstation, N64 fast forward until now? Madden has had some commitment issues and the systems  have no choice but to take it....lets not get off track but I must admit, the roots of my football gaming did not start with the Madden franchise..
                                                                     ...yea i said it...                                                                      My journey began from a far away land...a land where many "Sticky controllers"(I will explain) had to be replaced and losing to my older cousins became routine..This is a journey that's better described by Drakes hook "Started from the bottom now we here"....this is my story....True life: I'm A Football Gamer.

(  Oh, we called them "Sticky Controllers"  because we would eat a lot of candy when we were younger and playing immediately after seemed to be the bright idea instead of washing your hands before. Resulting in the buttons getting stuck therefore the purchase of a new one was shortly after warranted...that being said  my dad is a good guy. .. Now back to the story )                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            NFL sports talk football for Sega Genesis starring Joe Montana is where it began. Those 2.0 sports talk graphics and the camera zooms. I thought this game was amazing, although I don't recall actually ever winning in this one.....ever.."Yo......yo.."  
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Next was Deion Sanders Prime Time   ..a little better graphics..I guess ..but this is around the time where I started to scratch the surface of my potential...Love the intro with the animated dude spiking it down followed the Rick Flair " Whoo!"..                                                                                                                                                                              From there I moved onto Playstation where I(My dad) purchased the Gameday  series, starting with 98 for a few years ......................            Some authentic NFL game footage in the intro.. Although about 85% of those hits shown would now result in a fine/ suspension in today's game smh.... but the progression is evident.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  My swagger really began to develop with this one. I was getting older and began at this time around 10 11 years old actually playing the sport, so my IQ and hand eye coordination had no choice but to level up. Gameday as well as Madden (which was also out at the time) were the first football games I recall to introduce injury and fatigue. Now these factors as we all know play a huge part in the outcome and strategy of your game play... Well if you played me on my home turf that just wasn't going down "Hold up I bout to change the settings right quick" 
                                                                                                                                                                    ...it made the game better in my opinion HA, especially with the over exaggerated "juke move" which was virtually unstoppable(if you had skills) without fatigue or injury on. And for those that played with them on COOL STORY BRO.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Fast forward mix in a little NFL Blitz "yahda yahda" and the time had come. It felt like Christmas Day but it wasn't, maybe I was just riding the high off of a few packs of Sour Patch Kids but needless to say "Ish got real" in 2001... My first purchase (again my Dad) of Madden in 2001 as I transitioned to PS2.

14 years later look how far we have come. Now a days you can catch me on the XBox360. (gamertag available upon request)  As you already know by now, this relationship is still going strong. It's a sacred bond...a time of passage....a competitive game amongst a friend, family member, a sibling. ..a brotherhood.

All of those highs and lows I wouldn't trade for the world. Its made me into the gamer I am today, and to that Madden I say thank you,as I soon will continue after the tradition after I purchase this years edition....                                                                                                                                                                        I look forward to opening "a can of whoop a**" on my future opponents some of whom I will never meet in person. And I will take the losses with a wry smile on my face followed by our favorite phrase "Run It Back!"

Madden you will always have a special place in my heart thank you again, and thank you for reading my story.




And some love for the G.O.A.T on the front cover..