If someone told me before this one started that the winner would blow the other team out of the Hudson, I would've put every penny I had on the Broncos. Thankfully, I don't bet and I take my meds so the voices don't come to me like they use to.
Unfortunately, I sat there and watched the Seahawks dominate Super Bowl XLVIII winning by a final of 43-8 over the Broncos. Offense wins games and sets records, but Defense still wins Championships.
The key of the game was turnovers. Well, before that was a bad snap by the Broncos leading to a safety to start the game off. But still, it was turnovers that got to Peyton Manning and the Offense. Four total turnovers committed by the Broncos leading to 21 points off of turnovers by the Seahawks, including the 69 yard interception for a touchdown by Super Bowl MVP Malcolm Smith late in the 2nd quarter.
Thankfully, the Broncos did score a touchdown as the 3rd quarter ended with a 14 yard TD pass to Demaryius Thomas. But even after the successful two point conversion, they were still down by 28.
Seattle would score the final points of the game with Doug Baldwin catching a 10 yard TD pass. early in the 4th quarter. A few more possessions where neither teams did anything and the game was over.
Certainly Seattle's defense dominated this game but a nice job by Russell Wilson and Seahawks' offense. A balanced offense with key 3rd downs being converted went a long way. Also, a couple of Harvin designed runs threw Denver's defense off from the start. Not to mention that Kick Off return for a TD to start the 2nd half off.
Congrats to the Seahawks and the 12th man for winning their 1st Lombardi Trophy. They certainly were the best team of 2013.
P.S. I guess I'm not picking the Broncos for 2014. Sorry Van.
Showing posts with label Seahawks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Seahawks. Show all posts
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Ravens Win at Home and Seahawks Beat Redskins and Injured RG3
The wild card round of the postseason finished earlier today in the NFL with some great games.
First, the Colts went back to Baltimore to face the Ravens in Ray Lewis' last game at home. Lewis gave the crowd some great dancing throughout and managed to go the distance with his injured arm. The defense played a solid game despite the fact that they were on the field most of the time. They held the Colts and Andrew Luck to just 3 field goals. The Ravens, meanwhile, managed a few touchdowns themselves and won it 24-9. Lewis was in on the last play of the game as Flacco and the offense kneeled it down for the victory.
The 2nd game had the Seahawks going on the road to Washington D.C. to face the Redskins. Seattle got off to a slow start while Robert Griffin III and the 'Skins offense managed to score two touchdowns on their first two possessions. After that, RG3 re-injured his leg again and that offense couldn't do a thing after that. The Seahawks then scored 24 unanswered points throughout the rest of the game. RG3 came out in the 4th quarter after a bad snap fumble lead to his leg buckling. Seahawks win 24-14 and are the only visiting team to win this weekend.
Sunday ends with Russell Wilson being the only rookie QB of the three rookie QB's in the playoffs. You know, the one least talked about during the draft, the season, and the wild card round.
First, the Colts went back to Baltimore to face the Ravens in Ray Lewis' last game at home. Lewis gave the crowd some great dancing throughout and managed to go the distance with his injured arm. The defense played a solid game despite the fact that they were on the field most of the time. They held the Colts and Andrew Luck to just 3 field goals. The Ravens, meanwhile, managed a few touchdowns themselves and won it 24-9. Lewis was in on the last play of the game as Flacco and the offense kneeled it down for the victory.
The 2nd game had the Seahawks going on the road to Washington D.C. to face the Redskins. Seattle got off to a slow start while Robert Griffin III and the 'Skins offense managed to score two touchdowns on their first two possessions. After that, RG3 re-injured his leg again and that offense couldn't do a thing after that. The Seahawks then scored 24 unanswered points throughout the rest of the game. RG3 came out in the 4th quarter after a bad snap fumble lead to his leg buckling. Seahawks win 24-14 and are the only visiting team to win this weekend.
Sunday ends with Russell Wilson being the only rookie QB of the three rookie QB's in the playoffs. You know, the one least talked about during the draft, the season, and the wild card round.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Redskins' Revenge Over G-Men, Colts Beat Lions in Comeback Win, McElroy Time? (and more)
Week 13 of the NFL season finished last night with the New York Giants going down to Washington DC to face the Redskins. In a nail biting game back in October, the Giants managed to have the last laugh is a close game 27-23. This time, however, had the Redskins laughing last. Being down by 6, the Redskins managed to drive 86 yards in 12 plays from the late 3rd into the 4th quarter that resulted in a go ahead TD. Robert Griffin III managed to connect with Pierre Garcon for a lead grabbing 8 yard touchdown pass. The Giants can't get anything going on two more drives while the Redskins killed the clock at the end. Redskins win it by one 17-16. Washington is now 6-6 and still alive for the postseason.
Sunday, itself, was highlighted by Andrew Luck leading a comeback win for the Colts against the Lions. Detroit was up by 12 with 8:41 left in the game and the Colts somehow managed to pass them by. Andrew Luck threw a 42 TD pass to LaVon Brazill to bring them to within 5. Then, as time expired, Luck threw the game winning TD pass to Donnie Avery for 14 yards for the win 35-33. The unlikely season for them continues as the Colts are now 8-4. The Lions nightmare season, meanwhile, doesn't end as they are 4-8 and have lost 4 in a row.
As for the rest of Week 13, Mark Sanchez was finally benched but not for Tebow as Timmy was injured. Greg McElroy comes in and manages to get the game's only TD in the 4th quarter on a one yard pass to Jeff Cumberland. Jets beat the visiting Cardinals 7-6. The Seahawks managed to beat the Bears in OT 23-17 in an exciting finish. Russell Wilson hit Sidney Rice for the game winning 13 yard TD pass in OT. The Steelers steal a win from the Ravens in Baltimore 23-20 with Charlie Batch in as Pittsburgh's starter. Batch managed to keep it together after an interception as he threw the game tying TD and then managed to lead the Steelers down field for a game winning FG as time expired. I'll end by mentioning the Denver Broncos beating the Buccaneers 31-23 and clinch the AFC West. Peyton Manning threw for 242 yards and 3 TDs with just one INT in this division clinching win.
4 weeks to go and while the playoff picture seems clearer, not everything is decided. Down the stretch they come.
P.S. For my report on the 49ers loss to the Rams, click here. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for my take on the team before and after the game.
Sunday, itself, was highlighted by Andrew Luck leading a comeback win for the Colts against the Lions. Detroit was up by 12 with 8:41 left in the game and the Colts somehow managed to pass them by. Andrew Luck threw a 42 TD pass to LaVon Brazill to bring them to within 5. Then, as time expired, Luck threw the game winning TD pass to Donnie Avery for 14 yards for the win 35-33. The unlikely season for them continues as the Colts are now 8-4. The Lions nightmare season, meanwhile, doesn't end as they are 4-8 and have lost 4 in a row.
As for the rest of Week 13, Mark Sanchez was finally benched but not for Tebow as Timmy was injured. Greg McElroy comes in and manages to get the game's only TD in the 4th quarter on a one yard pass to Jeff Cumberland. Jets beat the visiting Cardinals 7-6. The Seahawks managed to beat the Bears in OT 23-17 in an exciting finish. Russell Wilson hit Sidney Rice for the game winning 13 yard TD pass in OT. The Steelers steal a win from the Ravens in Baltimore 23-20 with Charlie Batch in as Pittsburgh's starter. Batch managed to keep it together after an interception as he threw the game tying TD and then managed to lead the Steelers down field for a game winning FG as time expired. I'll end by mentioning the Denver Broncos beating the Buccaneers 31-23 and clinch the AFC West. Peyton Manning threw for 242 yards and 3 TDs with just one INT in this division clinching win.
4 weeks to go and while the playoff picture seems clearer, not everything is decided. Down the stretch they come.
P.S. For my report on the 49ers loss to the Rams, click here. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for my take on the team before and after the game.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Cowboys Beat Eagles in the Battle of Disapointments and More
As week 10 in the NFL began, two teams stood out among the rest as underachievers, jokes, and all around embarrassments. These two were the Cowboys and the Eagles. Both entered this week at 3-5 and both were looking to keep their seasons alive and avoid media scrutiny.
The game between these two stay close for a bit even when Michael Vick had to leave because of a concussion sustained in the 2nd quarter. Nick Foles came in and was average. The Cowboys, however, started to pull away in the 4th quarter with Dwayne Harris getting a 78 yard punt return for a TD. Then Foles threw an interception that was returned for a 47 yard TD by Brandon Carr. The Eagles did get a TD (missing the extra point) to make it an 8 point game but failed a comeback as Nick Foles was sacked in his own end zone fumbling the ball and being recovered by Jason Hatcher for a Cowboys TD. Cowboys win it 38-23. Cowboys are now 4-5 and the Eagles fall to 3-6 with Andy Reid starting to look for a new job on Craigslist.
As for the other games across the league, the Texans go to Chicago on Sunday night and beat the Bears 13-6. Jay Cutler left the game with a concussion leaving the Bears with no offense. Didn't stop him from throwing 2 INTs before he left, though. Giants get shocked by the Bengals in Cincy 31-13. Giants committed 4 turnovers including 2 INTs by Eli Manning. The Falcons are no longer undefeated as the Saints hold on to beat them 31-27. Can you hear the annoying cork popping by the '72 Dolphins? Last one I'll mention is that the Seahawks beat the Jets 28-7. Jets look awful again while the Seahawks still haven't lost at home this season (5-0 at home).
Week 10 ends tomorrow night with the Chiefs playing the Steelers.
P.S. For my take on the 49ers tie game with the Rams, click here. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for take on the team before and after the game.
The game between these two stay close for a bit even when Michael Vick had to leave because of a concussion sustained in the 2nd quarter. Nick Foles came in and was average. The Cowboys, however, started to pull away in the 4th quarter with Dwayne Harris getting a 78 yard punt return for a TD. Then Foles threw an interception that was returned for a 47 yard TD by Brandon Carr. The Eagles did get a TD (missing the extra point) to make it an 8 point game but failed a comeback as Nick Foles was sacked in his own end zone fumbling the ball and being recovered by Jason Hatcher for a Cowboys TD. Cowboys win it 38-23. Cowboys are now 4-5 and the Eagles fall to 3-6 with Andy Reid starting to look for a new job on Craigslist.
As for the other games across the league, the Texans go to Chicago on Sunday night and beat the Bears 13-6. Jay Cutler left the game with a concussion leaving the Bears with no offense. Didn't stop him from throwing 2 INTs before he left, though. Giants get shocked by the Bengals in Cincy 31-13. Giants committed 4 turnovers including 2 INTs by Eli Manning. The Falcons are no longer undefeated as the Saints hold on to beat them 31-27. Can you hear the annoying cork popping by the '72 Dolphins? Last one I'll mention is that the Seahawks beat the Jets 28-7. Jets look awful again while the Seahawks still haven't lost at home this season (5-0 at home).
Week 10 ends tomorrow night with the Chiefs playing the Steelers.
P.S. For my take on the 49ers tie game with the Rams, click here. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for take on the team before and after the game.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Falcons Still Undefeated, Texans Are Not, Pats Upset by Another NFC West Team and More
Week 6 was a wake up call for a few teams.
One of those teams was the Houston Texans. The Packers came to Houston to take on the Texans and told them and the rest of the league that they can still destroy another team. Aaron Rodgers unloaded on the Texans with 6 TD passes and 338 passing yards. Rodgers and the Packers jumped to an early lead and never let the Texans catch up. Matt Schaub did poorly throwing 2 picks and no TDs. The Texans just didn't play up to par before their fans or the country. Packers win 42-24. Texans are now 5-1 and no longer undefeated.
There is only one undefeated team left in the NFL and even they had a scare in week 6. The Atlanta Falcons hosted the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders should be an easy opponent to get by but they made it a bit difficult. Matt Ryan got picked off three times in this game and threw one TD in this game to Roddy White in the 2nd quarter. Meanwhile, the Raiders had 474 total yards on offense while the Falcons only had 286. The Falcons still were able to win it in the end with the Falcons making a quick drive down the field to score a 55 yard FG by Matt Bryant with one second remaining. Falcons win barely 23-20 and stay undefeated.
The rest of the NFL had some interesting games. The Patriots got upset again by another NFC West Team as the Seahawks win it 24-23 with a late 46 yard TD pass from Russell Wilson to Sidney Rice being the decider. Seahawks are now 4-2 and tied with the 49ers and the Cardinals in NFC West. The Cowboys lose to the Ravens 31-29 as Dan Bailey misses a 52 yarder to win it for Dallas. The Cowboys might've been able to get one more play off before kicking a FG but they all had to hustle to find out. The Lions beat the Eagles in OT 26-23 with Jason Hanson making the 45 yard FG to win it. Michael Vick threw two interceptions as the Eagles are lost. Last game I'll mention involves the Jets beating the Colts 35-9. Shonn Greene ran for 161 yards and 3 TDs on the ground just carrying the Jets to a win and stopping the Tebow talk for now.
Thank goodness this day is over. Week 6 ends tonight with the Broncos taking on the Chargers on Monday Night.
P.S. To read my take on what went wrong for the 49ers in week 6, click here. Check out the 49ers section at Prosportsblogging.com for my scoop on the team before and after the game.
One of those teams was the Houston Texans. The Packers came to Houston to take on the Texans and told them and the rest of the league that they can still destroy another team. Aaron Rodgers unloaded on the Texans with 6 TD passes and 338 passing yards. Rodgers and the Packers jumped to an early lead and never let the Texans catch up. Matt Schaub did poorly throwing 2 picks and no TDs. The Texans just didn't play up to par before their fans or the country. Packers win 42-24. Texans are now 5-1 and no longer undefeated.
There is only one undefeated team left in the NFL and even they had a scare in week 6. The Atlanta Falcons hosted the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders should be an easy opponent to get by but they made it a bit difficult. Matt Ryan got picked off three times in this game and threw one TD in this game to Roddy White in the 2nd quarter. Meanwhile, the Raiders had 474 total yards on offense while the Falcons only had 286. The Falcons still were able to win it in the end with the Falcons making a quick drive down the field to score a 55 yard FG by Matt Bryant with one second remaining. Falcons win barely 23-20 and stay undefeated.
The rest of the NFL had some interesting games. The Patriots got upset again by another NFC West Team as the Seahawks win it 24-23 with a late 46 yard TD pass from Russell Wilson to Sidney Rice being the decider. Seahawks are now 4-2 and tied with the 49ers and the Cardinals in NFC West. The Cowboys lose to the Ravens 31-29 as Dan Bailey misses a 52 yarder to win it for Dallas. The Cowboys might've been able to get one more play off before kicking a FG but they all had to hustle to find out. The Lions beat the Eagles in OT 26-23 with Jason Hanson making the 45 yard FG to win it. Michael Vick threw two interceptions as the Eagles are lost. Last game I'll mention involves the Jets beating the Colts 35-9. Shonn Greene ran for 161 yards and 3 TDs on the ground just carrying the Jets to a win and stopping the Tebow talk for now.
Thank goodness this day is over. Week 6 ends tonight with the Broncos taking on the Chargers on Monday Night.
P.S. To read my take on what went wrong for the 49ers in week 6, click here. Check out the 49ers section at Prosportsblogging.com for my scoop on the team before and after the game.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Upon Further Review... We're Bringing the Old Refs Back
While the 2012 NFL Season has been a fun one to watch so far, the side story of the lockout of the referees and using replacement refs has taken suddenly taken center stage due to a bad TD call at the end of the Packers-Seahawks game on Monday night. News outlets everywhere had it as lead stories grateful to be talking about something else other than the election (#isitover). Two days after the call and then denial by the NFL, the lockout ends after roughly 3 months.
The NFL and the NFLRA spent two days talking over the details and finally got a deal done. Just as the bell tolled midnight, the announcement was made that a tentative agreement was reached between the two parties. The new deal is a 8 year labor agreement includes a salary increase from an average of $149,000 a year in 2011 to $173,000 in 2013, rising to $205,000 by 2019. As for the pension plan, it seems to a compromise as the current defined benefit pension plan will remain in place for current officials through the 2016 season or until the official earns 20 years of service. The defined benefit plan will then be frozen. Then by 2017, new refs hired by the league will have a contribution program setup by the league. (very technical, click here for full scoop at ESPN)
There also seems to be some new hiring agreements like hiring some refs for full time year round service and also retaining some for development and to oversee games. The point is that an agreement was made.
Thank goodness. Now the replacements can go and we can yell and hate the regular referees again.
I will say that I am glad that the regulars are back because while they will make mistakes like the replacements do from time to time, they at least know how to keep teams from ripping each other apart like on Sunday night. These guys know how to manage the game and keep the pace moving which is something that the replacements lack.
Them coming back also bring a sense of legitimacy back to the league. While no human is perfect, the regular refs officiating is best for the integrity of the sport as it's saying that the best are there overlooking things for the league. The use of replacement officials didn't have the same PR message, especially after Monday night.
The regular refs make their return tonight at the Browns-Ravens game. It seems awfully quick to bring them back as they might be rusty but it's better than the replacements at any given time.
The NFL and the NFLRA spent two days talking over the details and finally got a deal done. Just as the bell tolled midnight, the announcement was made that a tentative agreement was reached between the two parties. The new deal is a 8 year labor agreement includes a salary increase from an average of $149,000 a year in 2011 to $173,000 in 2013, rising to $205,000 by 2019. As for the pension plan, it seems to a compromise as the current defined benefit pension plan will remain in place for current officials through the 2016 season or until the official earns 20 years of service. The defined benefit plan will then be frozen. Then by 2017, new refs hired by the league will have a contribution program setup by the league. (very technical, click here for full scoop at ESPN)
There also seems to be some new hiring agreements like hiring some refs for full time year round service and also retaining some for development and to oversee games. The point is that an agreement was made.
Thank goodness. Now the replacements can go and we can yell and hate the regular referees again.
I will say that I am glad that the regulars are back because while they will make mistakes like the replacements do from time to time, they at least know how to keep teams from ripping each other apart like on Sunday night. These guys know how to manage the game and keep the pace moving which is something that the replacements lack.
Them coming back also bring a sense of legitimacy back to the league. While no human is perfect, the regular refs officiating is best for the integrity of the sport as it's saying that the best are there overlooking things for the league. The use of replacement officials didn't have the same PR message, especially after Monday night.
The regular refs make their return tonight at the Browns-Ravens game. It seems awfully quick to bring them back as they might be rusty but it's better than the replacements at any given time.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
BRING THE REGULAR REFS BACK NOW!!!
The worst case scenario when the NFL decided to lockout the referees (because their dicks) was that an error made by the replacement refs would ultimately decide the fate of a game. That scenario came to life earlier tonight.
The Packers and the Seahawks played in CenturyLink Field in Seattle for some Monday Night Football action and there wa... FINE!!! Let's cut to the chase and just say that the game came down to a 4th and basically-have-to-win-it for the Seahawks at the GB 24 with 8 seconds left and the Packers leading by 5. After scrambling for a few seconds, Seahawks Rookie QB Russell Wilson throws a pass in the endzone with a bunch of players from both teams awaiting the ball to arrive. M.D. Jennings of the Packers appeared to come down with the ball with Seahawk Receiver Golden Tate's hands on it as well trying to wrestle it away. Anybody who has seen the instant replay of the throw can tell that Jennings had possession of the ball first with it against his chest with Tate still trying to wrestle it away.
Then the mistakes come. The refs don't know what to call and initially stand there paralyzed as to what just happened. Then one of them rules TD a split second before another makes a motion indicating that the ball has changed hands on an interception. The official call is a TD and the Seattle crowd goes nuts. The refs are asked to go to instant replay and they look at it and confirm the call afterwards. The Seahawks then eventually make the extra point with some of the disgusted Packers coming back onto the field from the dressing room. The Seahawks wi... NO... the refs GIVE the game to the Seahawks 14-12.
Right now the league is in trouble. Everyone in the league and the media was afraid that this kind of scenario would happen and it has. It was a gamble by the league in the first place to lockout the refs and bring in these replacements. The league apparently doesn't know what happens when you gamble and they now lost.
The league will now hear from everyone who has a voice (even priests who have taken a vow of silence) yell at the top of their lungs that the regular refs have to come back and that the league has to budge considerably on their demands. As for me, the league has to bring the regular officials back ASAP. The integrity of any sport cannot be in jeopardy at any time. This incident automatically calls the league's integrity into question rather than simple speculation when the lockout began. The league's image is now being affected negatively.
The lockout of the officials is now in the forefront of every fan's mind thinking what will the officials screw up in their games this week. Surely the regular officials do make mistakes but not like this one.
P.S. Also, Golden Tate should've been called for Offensive Pass Interference on the play. Two reasons the Packers should've won.
The Packers and the Seahawks played in CenturyLink Field in Seattle for some Monday Night Football action and there wa... FINE!!! Let's cut to the chase and just say that the game came down to a 4th and basically-have-to-win-it for the Seahawks at the GB 24 with 8 seconds left and the Packers leading by 5. After scrambling for a few seconds, Seahawks Rookie QB Russell Wilson throws a pass in the endzone with a bunch of players from both teams awaiting the ball to arrive. M.D. Jennings of the Packers appeared to come down with the ball with Seahawk Receiver Golden Tate's hands on it as well trying to wrestle it away. Anybody who has seen the instant replay of the throw can tell that Jennings had possession of the ball first with it against his chest with Tate still trying to wrestle it away.
Then the mistakes come. The refs don't know what to call and initially stand there paralyzed as to what just happened. Then one of them rules TD a split second before another makes a motion indicating that the ball has changed hands on an interception. The official call is a TD and the Seattle crowd goes nuts. The refs are asked to go to instant replay and they look at it and confirm the call afterwards. The Seahawks then eventually make the extra point with some of the disgusted Packers coming back onto the field from the dressing room. The Seahawks wi... NO... the refs GIVE the game to the Seahawks 14-12.
Right now the league is in trouble. Everyone in the league and the media was afraid that this kind of scenario would happen and it has. It was a gamble by the league in the first place to lockout the refs and bring in these replacements. The league apparently doesn't know what happens when you gamble and they now lost.
The league will now hear from everyone who has a voice (even priests who have taken a vow of silence) yell at the top of their lungs that the regular refs have to come back and that the league has to budge considerably on their demands. As for me, the league has to bring the regular officials back ASAP. The integrity of any sport cannot be in jeopardy at any time. This incident automatically calls the league's integrity into question rather than simple speculation when the lockout began. The league's image is now being affected negatively.
The lockout of the officials is now in the forefront of every fan's mind thinking what will the officials screw up in their games this week. Surely the regular officials do make mistakes but not like this one.
P.S. Also, Golden Tate should've been called for Offensive Pass Interference on the play. Two reasons the Packers should've won.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Pats and Cowboys Get Upset, Eagles Outfly Ravens and More
A wild Sunday of football across the NFL as there were two notable upsets.
The first one was the Cardinals going into Foxboro and getting a win over the Patriots. The Cardinals went in there and looked like the Giants... in the sense that they stifle the Pats and limit their points total. The Patriots didn't get a TD until the 4th quarter. They needed to convert the two-point conversion but failed. Luckily they got the ball back from the Cardinals by way of the fumble with about a minute to go. But then luck turns against them once more as Stephen Gostkowski misses a 42 yd FG as it sails wide left. Cardinals hold on and win it 20-18.
The other major upset was in Seattle as the Seahawks played host to them Cowboys. It was an interesting game as the Seahawks got in front early with a FG and then a TD return off a blocked punt. The Cowboys then scored their only TD of the game but then failed to do anything else. A couple more TDs from Seattle in the second half put this one away for the Seahawks 27-7. Two NFC West teams are the cause of the biggest upsets of the week.
One of the great match ups to watch on the day had the Ravens going into Philly to take on the Eagles in the battle of the birds. The Eagles ran it considerably more to help Michael Vick but he still had problems. Vick threw for 371 yards and a TD but still had 2 INTs on the day. Despite that and two more fumbles by the Eagles, they somehow win it again late 24-23. After the Eagles TD, Joe Flacco and the Ravens had one more shot within two minutes but could not convert a 4th down to keep the drive alive.
As for the other games, the Giants avoid joining the Pats and the Cowboys in the getting upset department as they hold on for a win over the Bucs 41-34. Eli Manning comes through in the clutch again leading his team to 25 4th quarter points to get them the win. Andrew Luck records his first win as an QB in the NFL as the Colts beat the Vikings 23-20. Luck went 20/31 for 224 passing yards and 2 TD passes. Adam Vinatieri made the game winning 53 yd FG with 8 seconds left. The Panthers beat the dysfunctional Saints 35-27. Maybe dysfunctional is the wrong word but what else do you call a team where half of management is suspended. Last I'll mention is that the Rams beat the Redskins 31-28. Robert Griffin III scores his first two rushing TDs of his career but picks up his first career loss along with it.
What did we learn from this Sunday? The rough lesson that we have to reminded of from time to time: that there is no such thing as a sure thing. Perhaps the one powerhouse team that looked the most consistent yesterday was the 49ers.
P.S. To see my full scoop on the 49ers beating the Lions, click here. Be sure to visit the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for my take on the 49ers each week before and after the games.
The first one was the Cardinals going into Foxboro and getting a win over the Patriots. The Cardinals went in there and looked like the Giants... in the sense that they stifle the Pats and limit their points total. The Patriots didn't get a TD until the 4th quarter. They needed to convert the two-point conversion but failed. Luckily they got the ball back from the Cardinals by way of the fumble with about a minute to go. But then luck turns against them once more as Stephen Gostkowski misses a 42 yd FG as it sails wide left. Cardinals hold on and win it 20-18.
The other major upset was in Seattle as the Seahawks played host to them Cowboys. It was an interesting game as the Seahawks got in front early with a FG and then a TD return off a blocked punt. The Cowboys then scored their only TD of the game but then failed to do anything else. A couple more TDs from Seattle in the second half put this one away for the Seahawks 27-7. Two NFC West teams are the cause of the biggest upsets of the week.
One of the great match ups to watch on the day had the Ravens going into Philly to take on the Eagles in the battle of the birds. The Eagles ran it considerably more to help Michael Vick but he still had problems. Vick threw for 371 yards and a TD but still had 2 INTs on the day. Despite that and two more fumbles by the Eagles, they somehow win it again late 24-23. After the Eagles TD, Joe Flacco and the Ravens had one more shot within two minutes but could not convert a 4th down to keep the drive alive.
As for the other games, the Giants avoid joining the Pats and the Cowboys in the getting upset department as they hold on for a win over the Bucs 41-34. Eli Manning comes through in the clutch again leading his team to 25 4th quarter points to get them the win. Andrew Luck records his first win as an QB in the NFL as the Colts beat the Vikings 23-20. Luck went 20/31 for 224 passing yards and 2 TD passes. Adam Vinatieri made the game winning 53 yd FG with 8 seconds left. The Panthers beat the dysfunctional Saints 35-27. Maybe dysfunctional is the wrong word but what else do you call a team where half of management is suspended. Last I'll mention is that the Rams beat the Redskins 31-28. Robert Griffin III scores his first two rushing TDs of his career but picks up his first career loss along with it.
What did we learn from this Sunday? The rough lesson that we have to reminded of from time to time: that there is no such thing as a sure thing. Perhaps the one powerhouse team that looked the most consistent yesterday was the 49ers.
P.S. To see my full scoop on the 49ers beating the Lions, click here. Be sure to visit the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for my take on the 49ers each week before and after the games.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Manning's Fine Broncos Debut, RG3 King of the Rookies, Jets Score a Lot and More
The first NFL Sunday of the year passed by with a lot of stories to talk about. One of which was Peyton Manning.
Manning made his Broncos debut and at Mile High where they faced the visiting Steelers. Manning got off to a slow start not using the offense that he is use to. When they did switch to the no huddle style of Manning's, it was fantastic. Manning threw two TDs on the day which got him over the 400 mark for a career, the first of which was a 71 yard TD pass to Demaryius Thomas. The Broncos did win the game thanks to a late pick six by Tracy Porter to seal the deal. Final was 31-19.
There were a lot of rookie QB's on showcase yesterday and they stunk for the most part with the notable exception being Robert Griffin III. The Redskins and RG3 went into the Superdome to take on the angered Saints and they surprisingly came out on top. RG3 threw for 2 TDs on the day including the one in the first quarter to Pierre Garcon for 88 yards. RG3 went 19/26 with 320 passing yards and also ran the ball 10 times for 42 yards. Meanwhile, Drew Brees looked sub par going 24/52 with 339 passing yards, 3 TD passes, and 2 INTs. The debuting RG3 and the Redskins upset the Saints 40-32.
While that was a surprising outcome, the Jets shocked me more. Despite a lack of preseason TDs, there was no shortage going against Buffalo. They managed 4 offensive TDs with the first three of them being 3 TD passes from Mark Sanchez (not Tebow). One of his finest performaces ever as Sanchez goes 19/27 with 266 passing yards, 3 TD passes, and 1 INT. Jets pick apart the Bills 48-28.
As for some other games, the Patriots beat the Titans 31-13 as Brady threw for 236 yards and 2 TDs. They actually had a running game here with 162 yards on the ground with 125 of that coming from Steven Ridley. Both the Lions and the Eagles escape upsets. Detroit beat St. Louis 27-23 and Philly beats Cleveland 17-16. Matthew Stafford threw 1 TD and 3 INTs while Vick threw 2 TDs and 4 INTs. Then Russell Wilson and the Seahawks almost beat the Cardinals with less than a half minute remaining in part because of the officiating crew forgot how many TO's Seattle had. Luckily for Arizona, Braylon Edwards drops what so should've been the winning score and the Cardinals win 20-16.
An eventful first Sunday across the NFL as there were plenty of surprises. I'm sure if you're a Jets fan you do like that. Week 1 wraps up tonight with two Monday Night games with the first being Bengals vs. Ravens and the second being Chargers vs. Raiders.
P.S. To see my full scoop on the 49ers beating the Packers, click here. Be sure to visit the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for my take on the 49ers each week before and after the games.
Manning made his Broncos debut and at Mile High where they faced the visiting Steelers. Manning got off to a slow start not using the offense that he is use to. When they did switch to the no huddle style of Manning's, it was fantastic. Manning threw two TDs on the day which got him over the 400 mark for a career, the first of which was a 71 yard TD pass to Demaryius Thomas. The Broncos did win the game thanks to a late pick six by Tracy Porter to seal the deal. Final was 31-19.
There were a lot of rookie QB's on showcase yesterday and they stunk for the most part with the notable exception being Robert Griffin III. The Redskins and RG3 went into the Superdome to take on the angered Saints and they surprisingly came out on top. RG3 threw for 2 TDs on the day including the one in the first quarter to Pierre Garcon for 88 yards. RG3 went 19/26 with 320 passing yards and also ran the ball 10 times for 42 yards. Meanwhile, Drew Brees looked sub par going 24/52 with 339 passing yards, 3 TD passes, and 2 INTs. The debuting RG3 and the Redskins upset the Saints 40-32.
While that was a surprising outcome, the Jets shocked me more. Despite a lack of preseason TDs, there was no shortage going against Buffalo. They managed 4 offensive TDs with the first three of them being 3 TD passes from Mark Sanchez (not Tebow). One of his finest performaces ever as Sanchez goes 19/27 with 266 passing yards, 3 TD passes, and 1 INT. Jets pick apart the Bills 48-28.
As for some other games, the Patriots beat the Titans 31-13 as Brady threw for 236 yards and 2 TDs. They actually had a running game here with 162 yards on the ground with 125 of that coming from Steven Ridley. Both the Lions and the Eagles escape upsets. Detroit beat St. Louis 27-23 and Philly beats Cleveland 17-16. Matthew Stafford threw 1 TD and 3 INTs while Vick threw 2 TDs and 4 INTs. Then Russell Wilson and the Seahawks almost beat the Cardinals with less than a half minute remaining in part because of the officiating crew forgot how many TO's Seattle had. Luckily for Arizona, Braylon Edwards drops what so should've been the winning score and the Cardinals win 20-16.
An eventful first Sunday across the NFL as there were plenty of surprises. I'm sure if you're a Jets fan you do like that. Week 1 wraps up tonight with two Monday Night games with the first being Bengals vs. Ravens and the second being Chargers vs. Raiders.
P.S. To see my full scoop on the 49ers beating the Packers, click here. Be sure to visit the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for my take on the 49ers each week before and after the games.
Monday, September 3, 2012
2012 NFC West: Go for Gold
The NFC West was my favorite division to watch last year mainly because my 49ers were there kicking a** and taking names. They were one of the surprise teams of the NFL what with the season they had in 2010 and how good their defense was performing last year. It's obvious who my favorite here is.
But before I claim the title of "Captain Obvious," let's see how the rest of the division fares. Two of the other teams have interesting QB conversation. The first being the Seahawks naming Russell Wilson as their starter instead of Matt Flynn who they traded for. There is no doubt that Russell Wilson was the better starter in the preseason and he deserves the starting role but that team is likely going to be middle of the road at the best, even with Matt Flynn as their starter.
The other team with the QB controversy is the Cardinals. They name John Skelton as their starter instead of Kevin Kolb who was injury prone a season ago. It might not matter at all who they put out there considering they still have Larry Fitzgerald to throw to.
As for the Rams, I'm not sure which direction this team will be headed, especially at the QB slot. Will we see an improved Sam Bradford or the one we saw last year? They might still have Steven Jackson but I don't see them doing much in Jeff Fisher's first year as head coach.
So the favorite is no doubt the 49ers. Now anything can happen in the NFL but I have to believe after last year's performance that the 49ers are the best team in the NFC West. I have watched them all preseason long and while they don't look great I still like what I see. They still don't have a great pass defense to go along with that amazing run defense they showed last year but as long as you can make the other team one dimensional you have a great defense.
The offense could still use improvement. Alex Smith hasn't been impressive but he hasn't been horrible either. Maybe Jim Harbaugh is not tipping his hand so to speak. Quite frankly I'm hoping that this is the case. What I did see, however, was a very good Colin Kaepernick. I was very impressed with his performance in that last preseason. He seemed like he could step in no problem if something happened to Smith. Now I am routing for Smith to do well (which is something I haven't done in a while) but it's nice to know where the back up is.
49ers are the favorite this year and have to be considered Super Bowl contenders seeing how far they got in the postseason. Here's hoping they get a bit further.
P.S. Despite my enthusiasm for the team, I can't help but feel worried. I am a pessimist at heart so this whole post is out of character. I can't help but feel like something will go horribly wro wro wro.... I shouldn't think this.
But before I claim the title of "Captain Obvious," let's see how the rest of the division fares. Two of the other teams have interesting QB conversation. The first being the Seahawks naming Russell Wilson as their starter instead of Matt Flynn who they traded for. There is no doubt that Russell Wilson was the better starter in the preseason and he deserves the starting role but that team is likely going to be middle of the road at the best, even with Matt Flynn as their starter.
The other team with the QB controversy is the Cardinals. They name John Skelton as their starter instead of Kevin Kolb who was injury prone a season ago. It might not matter at all who they put out there considering they still have Larry Fitzgerald to throw to.
As for the Rams, I'm not sure which direction this team will be headed, especially at the QB slot. Will we see an improved Sam Bradford or the one we saw last year? They might still have Steven Jackson but I don't see them doing much in Jeff Fisher's first year as head coach.
So the favorite is no doubt the 49ers. Now anything can happen in the NFL but I have to believe after last year's performance that the 49ers are the best team in the NFC West. I have watched them all preseason long and while they don't look great I still like what I see. They still don't have a great pass defense to go along with that amazing run defense they showed last year but as long as you can make the other team one dimensional you have a great defense.
The offense could still use improvement. Alex Smith hasn't been impressive but he hasn't been horrible either. Maybe Jim Harbaugh is not tipping his hand so to speak. Quite frankly I'm hoping that this is the case. What I did see, however, was a very good Colin Kaepernick. I was very impressed with his performance in that last preseason. He seemed like he could step in no problem if something happened to Smith. Now I am routing for Smith to do well (which is something I haven't done in a while) but it's nice to know where the back up is.
49ers are the favorite this year and have to be considered Super Bowl contenders seeing how far they got in the postseason. Here's hoping they get a bit further.
P.S. Despite my enthusiasm for the team, I can't help but feel worried. I am a pessimist at heart so this whole post is out of character. I can't help but feel like something will go horribly wro wro wro.... I shouldn't think this.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Russell Wilson Named Seahawks Starter
Right now Matt Flynn is saying WTF somewhere and drinking himself into a stupor.
The Third Preseason game for the Seahawks had Russell Wilson starting as they wanted to see what this kid could do. After going 13/19 throwing for 189 yards and 2 TDs, the Seahawks have now named him the starter for the regular season. This after the fact that they traded for Matt Flynn who had a couple great outings as a backup QB for the Packers. This news from the Seahawks makes Wilson the 5th starting rookie QB named across the league joining Robert Griffin III, Andrew Luck, Brandon Wheedon, and Ryan Tannehill.
What is going on the NFL? A few teams see how well Cam Newton and Andy Dalton do their first year and they now just want to throw their own rookie QB's into the fire? Maybe it's the way the league is going. Or perhaps its just one year of teams looking for a bunch of new QB's. Or it's an very impressive rookie class.
Whatever it is, I hope that Wilson can see over the line he will be working with. Hasn't affected him so far.
The Third Preseason game for the Seahawks had Russell Wilson starting as they wanted to see what this kid could do. After going 13/19 throwing for 189 yards and 2 TDs, the Seahawks have now named him the starter for the regular season. This after the fact that they traded for Matt Flynn who had a couple great outings as a backup QB for the Packers. This news from the Seahawks makes Wilson the 5th starting rookie QB named across the league joining Robert Griffin III, Andrew Luck, Brandon Wheedon, and Ryan Tannehill.
What is going on the NFL? A few teams see how well Cam Newton and Andy Dalton do their first year and they now just want to throw their own rookie QB's into the fire? Maybe it's the way the league is going. Or perhaps its just one year of teams looking for a bunch of new QB's. Or it's an very impressive rookie class.
Whatever it is, I hope that Wilson can see over the line he will be working with. Hasn't affected him so far.
Sunday, August 26, 2012
TO Cut by the Seahawks
Terrell Owens joined the Seahawks as a last chance of getting back to the NFL. The chance was well wasted.
After dropping an open pass for a TD and running his mouth off about how things don't go his own way, TO was cut by the Seattle Seahawks. He signed on August 6th for the Seahawks as part of a one year deal and only played the 2nd and 3rd preseason game for the team catching just two passes. Owens Tweeted about being cut writing "I'm no longer a Seahawk. I THANK the organization 4 the opportunity, I'm truly blessed beyond belief. My FAITH is intact & will NOT waiver."
NOW it seems like the end of Terrell Owens. Owens couldn't stay on board of a off brand football team and couldn't stay on board of a Indoor Football one either (HA!!!). This could be TO's last stint in the NFL but still could have some caller from teams that might be desperate. Maybe someone during the season will call him if there is an injury or they're making a playoff push (OK, maybe not that one).
Is this the curtain call for TO (more like the hook pulling him off)? Please let it be so.
After dropping an open pass for a TD and running his mouth off about how things don't go his own way, TO was cut by the Seattle Seahawks. He signed on August 6th for the Seahawks as part of a one year deal and only played the 2nd and 3rd preseason game for the team catching just two passes. Owens Tweeted about being cut writing "I'm no longer a Seahawk. I THANK the organization 4 the opportunity, I'm truly blessed beyond belief. My FAITH is intact & will NOT waiver."
NOW it seems like the end of Terrell Owens. Owens couldn't stay on board of a off brand football team and couldn't stay on board of a Indoor Football one either (HA!!!). This could be TO's last stint in the NFL but still could have some caller from teams that might be desperate. Maybe someone during the season will call him if there is an injury or they're making a playoff push (OK, maybe not that one).
Is this the curtain call for TO (more like the hook pulling him off)? Please let it be so.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Damn it, T.O.'s Back
Just when you thought it was safe for QB's to go outside.
Terrell Owens has been an outsider looking in for about a year now as TO couldn't get a gig as a WR anywhere last season due to the fact that he had a leg injury that kept teams away. After the season ended, everyone wrote him as done, including his agent, and thought that his career was over. TO didn't accept it. He went to play a bit in the IFL to prove the doubters wrong until his team released him.
He then got a chance for the NFL again. TO went to Seattle to tryout for the Seahawks. Now they would want some WR help but TO would not be the #1 guy. TO seemed to impress the Seahawks as they signed him a one year $1 million contract. TO tweeted about this writing "God is good. Thankful. Grateful. To ALL my new teammates & the "12th Man"... Let's Do This!! "
Why can't he just go away into that good night? I admire TO's desire to play and that is obviously driving him to go to Seattle and I applaud him for that but why did Seattle do this? It's always a bit of a risk getting TO because of the divide that he can create in a locker room and his relationships to past QBs. They just got Matt Flynn who they are hoping will turn out well and they get a diva to play with him? Bad move for them.
Now maybe TO will learn his place and realize that he is not the top guy anymore and be quiet. I hope, as a 49ers fan, that he doesn't.
Terrell Owens has been an outsider looking in for about a year now as TO couldn't get a gig as a WR anywhere last season due to the fact that he had a leg injury that kept teams away. After the season ended, everyone wrote him as done, including his agent, and thought that his career was over. TO didn't accept it. He went to play a bit in the IFL to prove the doubters wrong until his team released him.
He then got a chance for the NFL again. TO went to Seattle to tryout for the Seahawks. Now they would want some WR help but TO would not be the #1 guy. TO seemed to impress the Seahawks as they signed him a one year $1 million contract. TO tweeted about this writing "God is good. Thankful. Grateful. To ALL my new teammates & the "12th Man"... Let's Do This!! "
Why can't he just go away into that good night? I admire TO's desire to play and that is obviously driving him to go to Seattle and I applaud him for that but why did Seattle do this? It's always a bit of a risk getting TO because of the divide that he can create in a locker room and his relationships to past QBs. They just got Matt Flynn who they are hoping will turn out well and they get a diva to play with him? Bad move for them.
Now maybe TO will learn his place and realize that he is not the top guy anymore and be quiet. I hope, as a 49ers fan, that he doesn't.
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