The last thing you would think about doing if you are the Super Bowl Champions is trying to change too much. However, that just seems to be the cards that the Ravens are dealt with... or playing?
Baltimore's off-season has been mostly about losing players after their Super Bowl win in February. They have lost Ray Lewis to retirement and two other linebackers to other teams, Anquan Boldin in a trade to the 49ers for a 6th round pick, and other notable starters along the way. Ed Reed's days in Baltimore also look like they are over as he's getting looks from other teams like the Texans.
The only thing that they have been able to do is keep Joe Flacco with a 6 year $120 million plus contract to eat up a lot of cap space.
Despite all of this, the PR department known as John Harbaugh has spun it the best way he can. "The worst mistake you can make is trying to hold a team together," Harbaugh said in an interview. "It's impossible." He also cited Bo Schembechler's (the late family friend) advice of "if you try to stay the same you end up getting worse."
Full article at http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/9066834/john-harbaugh-baltimore-ravens-roster-change-part-nfl
An interesting question gets raised by all this: Is all this "change" better for the team/John Harbaugh long term? Also, is it best to break up a Super Bowl team rather than try and keep it together nowadays?
I'm not sure anyone can ever answer the second question perfectly but the first one seems to be a yes. The Ravens team that won it all was old and heading down the other side of the hill anyway. They certainly made a great postseason push with a deer antler charged Ray Lewis leading the pack. But now with the Ray Lewis era is over in Baltimore, the Ravens took it as a sign to start a new era with some different players.
While they did lose players in their prime, they also let aged veterans go like Ed Reed (34) and Anquan Boldin (32). Keeping them would've been too hard with the cap restrictions what they are and even if they had managed to do so, they might only be productive for a couple more seasons. (I must reiterate that I still like that the 49ers got Boldin).
The next couple of the years for the Ravens will have them trying to return to contender status. But don't despair, Baltimore. They weren't predominantly seen as contenders last season. As you all have seen, anything can happen once you get into the postseason and with a quarterback like Joe, getting to January is always a possibility.
P.S. Now my best shot at answering the 2nd question: I'm leaning towards saying yes. Just look at the Super Bowl winners over the past decade or so. Except for the Pats about ten years ago, there have been no repeat winners. It's not that Super Bowl teams haven't been contenders the season after they've won it. It's just that the path to the Super Bowl nowadays is too chaotic to navigate and predict.
Lately, it hasn't been what are considered the great teams that end up winning the Super Bowl. The last three winners have just been teams that have gotten hot at exactly the right time.
Also, of the teams that have won it multiple times over the past ten years, the common denominator is that they had great quarterbacks. The Pats have Brady, the Steelers have Ben, and the Giants have Peyton's younger brother. By that logic, the Ravens think they are set for the foreseeable future seeing how well Joe Flacco performed this past postseason.
With quarterback being the far and away clear centerpiece of a team today, everything else is interchangeable. Just look at how Bill Belichick and the Patriots deal with players not named Brady. He casually let's players go or trades them the instant he thinks their ability will tank. He then manages to find suitable enough replacements (not always the best) and gems in the draft to keep the team afloat.
While they haven't been able to close the deal since February of 2005, the Pats have been in the playoff hunt every season except for two since their first Super Bowl title at the end of the 2001 season.
Unless you have a great defense, a great quarterback, and a lot of luck, there are no dynasty's anymore in the NFL. Talent level is pretty well spread out in the league, even at the quarterback position. That's right, even at QB.
Let's name the QB's that have been good enough to lead a team to the Super Bowl: Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Peyton's younger brother, Joe Flacco, Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, and Ben Roethlisberger. Now quarterback's that possibly join the list above as soon as next season? Colin Kaepernick (HA!!!), Matt Ryan, and Matt Schaub (bit of a stretch).
Now quarterbacks that are just good enough to get their team to the postseason at the present time: Tony Romo, Jay Cutler, Matthew Stafford, Robert Griffin III, Russell Wilson, and Andrew Luck.
If the standard nowadays is just getting into the postseason while hoping your team is peaking at the right time, I count 16 quarterbacks that are eligible for the job. That's not even counting quarterbacks that have potential to become that or those that have faded away.
If that's the case, it's about finding the right parts for your ever changing team year after year. You can't have too many star players on your team too long because of that pesky salary cap and winning a Super Bowl just has everyone able to renegotiate at that time chirping for more money. It's today's NFL and it's what champions now have to do to remain in contention.
P.P.S. Is my P.S. longer my than original post?
Showing posts with label Texans. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Texans. Show all posts
Monday, March 18, 2013
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Texans and Packers Winners Saturday
The NFL playoffs started today with two games in the Wild Card round.
The first one featured a rematch from last year's Wild Card round with the Bengals once again making a trip to Houston to take on the Texans. Houston managed to win last year's game and pulled off the same result today. It was a low scoring game throughout and the Bengals offense didn't do much failing to convert all 9 of their 3rd down attempts, only getting 12 first downs compared to Houston's 24, and only having 198 total yards compared to Houston's 420. The Bengals' only TD came off a Leon Hall interception in the 2nd quarter. Cincy's defense might've kept them in the game until the end but their offense didn't have the spark. Houston wins 19-13.
The 2nd game was less exciting despite the match up. After beating the Packers in Minnesota just to get into the postseason, the Vikings now traveled to Green Bay to face the cheeseheads for a 2nd week in a row. This time, however, they had to do it without Christian Ponder at QB. Joe Webb came in off the bench to play having not thrown the ball once this season. On top of that, the Green Bay defense played Adrian Peterson much better allowing him to get just 99 rushing yards on 22 carries. That combined with Joe Webb equaled a Packers win 24-10.
Both home teams win and know who they will face in the next round. The Texans will travel to New England to face the Patriots while the Packers go to the Bay Area to play the 49ers. Both the Texans and the Packers played their upcoming opponents during the regular season. The Pats beat the Texans in week 14 while the 49ers beat the Packers in week 1.
The first one featured a rematch from last year's Wild Card round with the Bengals once again making a trip to Houston to take on the Texans. Houston managed to win last year's game and pulled off the same result today. It was a low scoring game throughout and the Bengals offense didn't do much failing to convert all 9 of their 3rd down attempts, only getting 12 first downs compared to Houston's 24, and only having 198 total yards compared to Houston's 420. The Bengals' only TD came off a Leon Hall interception in the 2nd quarter. Cincy's defense might've kept them in the game until the end but their offense didn't have the spark. Houston wins 19-13.
The 2nd game was less exciting despite the match up. After beating the Packers in Minnesota just to get into the postseason, the Vikings now traveled to Green Bay to face the cheeseheads for a 2nd week in a row. This time, however, they had to do it without Christian Ponder at QB. Joe Webb came in off the bench to play having not thrown the ball once this season. On top of that, the Green Bay defense played Adrian Peterson much better allowing him to get just 99 rushing yards on 22 carries. That combined with Joe Webb equaled a Packers win 24-10.
Both home teams win and know who they will face in the next round. The Texans will travel to New England to face the Patriots while the Packers go to the Bay Area to play the 49ers. Both the Texans and the Packers played their upcoming opponents during the regular season. The Pats beat the Texans in week 14 while the 49ers beat the Packers in week 1.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Redskins Win NFC East, Vikes Squeeze Into Postseason, Broncos and Pats Get Byes and More
The last week in the NFL was huge as it featured quite a few good games with playoff implications.
The biggest perhaps was the Cowboys vs. the Redskins with the NFC East title on the line and the loser not getting into the postseason. Both sides started out slow and it was tied at 7 heading into the locker room. The 2nd half had more of the Washington's ground game wearing down the Dallas defense. Rookie Alfred Morris managed to run an even 200 yards against the Cowboys and managed 3 rushing TDs. RG3, meanwhile, only had 100 passing yards going 9/18 with 63 rushing yards and a rushing TD.
Dallas fell behind by 11 and managed to cut the lead by 3 with just under 6 minutes left. Tony Romo, however, made a season ending mistake throwing his third interception of the game with this one being picked off by London Fletcher on a dump pass to DeMarco Murray. The Redskins managed to kill the clock down to 1:09 left in regulation and scored the nail-in-the-coffin TD with Morris' third score. Redskins win the NFC East 28-18. Dallas misses the playoffs for a third straight season while Washington gets in with a rookie QB and running back leading the way.
There was also a big game earlier that day involving the Packers and the Vikings. Green Bay was fighting for the #2 seed in the NFC while Minnesota was fighting to just get into the postseason. The Packers knew that Adrian Peterson of the Vikings was going to run on them and they still couldn't stop him. Peterson ran for 199 yards including a 26 yard run to get the Vikings a chip shot field goal for Blair Walsh to win the game 37-34. Peterson, however, still finishes 9 yards shy of breaking Eric Dickerson single season rushing record. Vikings get into the playoffs as a wild card while the Packers lose the #2 seed with this loss and the 49ers beating the Cardinals 27-13 claiming the bye week for themselves.
Some craziness in the top seeding of the AFC. In an emotional game in which Chuck Pagano made his return to the Colts, Indianapolis beats Houston 28-16. The Broncos and the Patriots both capitalized on the Texans loss winning their respective games. Denver blows out Kansas City 38-3 while New England shuts out Miami 28-0. Broncos get the #1 seed and home field advantage while the Pats grab the #2 seed. Texans are stuck playing in the wild card round of the playoffs as they finished the last 4 games of the season 1-3 after starting 11-1.
As for noteworthy news, the Giants blow out the Eagles 42-7 but are eliminated from playoff contention. Looks like a 9-7 record didn't cut it this year for the G-Men. The Bears win their game 26-24 over the Lions but with the Vikings win they fall just short of the playoffs. Minnesota and Chicago have the same record of 10-6 but the advantage goes to the Vikes who had a better divisional record of 4-2. Last one I'll mention is that the Seahawks beat the Rams 20-13. Not really a significant win with the 49ers claiming the NFC West but Seattle finishes the season undefeated at home with a 8-0 record at CenturyLink Field. Thank goodness nobody has to play them there in the postseason.
A great 2012 regular season ends with a lot of excitement and noticeably 3 rookie quarterbacks leading their teams into the playoffs. Two of them will actually meet in the wild card round of the postseason with the Seahawks traveling to Washington to play the Redskins. It's going to be a good postseason.
P.S. There is also an interesting game on the other NFC wild card game with the Vikings now going to Green Bay to play the Packers. Let's see if the Pack can stop Peterson at home.
P.P.S. Click here for a full recap of the 49ers win over the Cardinals. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for updates on the team before and after each game.
The biggest perhaps was the Cowboys vs. the Redskins with the NFC East title on the line and the loser not getting into the postseason. Both sides started out slow and it was tied at 7 heading into the locker room. The 2nd half had more of the Washington's ground game wearing down the Dallas defense. Rookie Alfred Morris managed to run an even 200 yards against the Cowboys and managed 3 rushing TDs. RG3, meanwhile, only had 100 passing yards going 9/18 with 63 rushing yards and a rushing TD.
Dallas fell behind by 11 and managed to cut the lead by 3 with just under 6 minutes left. Tony Romo, however, made a season ending mistake throwing his third interception of the game with this one being picked off by London Fletcher on a dump pass to DeMarco Murray. The Redskins managed to kill the clock down to 1:09 left in regulation and scored the nail-in-the-coffin TD with Morris' third score. Redskins win the NFC East 28-18. Dallas misses the playoffs for a third straight season while Washington gets in with a rookie QB and running back leading the way.
There was also a big game earlier that day involving the Packers and the Vikings. Green Bay was fighting for the #2 seed in the NFC while Minnesota was fighting to just get into the postseason. The Packers knew that Adrian Peterson of the Vikings was going to run on them and they still couldn't stop him. Peterson ran for 199 yards including a 26 yard run to get the Vikings a chip shot field goal for Blair Walsh to win the game 37-34. Peterson, however, still finishes 9 yards shy of breaking Eric Dickerson single season rushing record. Vikings get into the playoffs as a wild card while the Packers lose the #2 seed with this loss and the 49ers beating the Cardinals 27-13 claiming the bye week for themselves.
Some craziness in the top seeding of the AFC. In an emotional game in which Chuck Pagano made his return to the Colts, Indianapolis beats Houston 28-16. The Broncos and the Patriots both capitalized on the Texans loss winning their respective games. Denver blows out Kansas City 38-3 while New England shuts out Miami 28-0. Broncos get the #1 seed and home field advantage while the Pats grab the #2 seed. Texans are stuck playing in the wild card round of the playoffs as they finished the last 4 games of the season 1-3 after starting 11-1.
As for noteworthy news, the Giants blow out the Eagles 42-7 but are eliminated from playoff contention. Looks like a 9-7 record didn't cut it this year for the G-Men. The Bears win their game 26-24 over the Lions but with the Vikings win they fall just short of the playoffs. Minnesota and Chicago have the same record of 10-6 but the advantage goes to the Vikes who had a better divisional record of 4-2. Last one I'll mention is that the Seahawks beat the Rams 20-13. Not really a significant win with the 49ers claiming the NFC West but Seattle finishes the season undefeated at home with a 8-0 record at CenturyLink Field. Thank goodness nobody has to play them there in the postseason.
A great 2012 regular season ends with a lot of excitement and noticeably 3 rookie quarterbacks leading their teams into the playoffs. Two of them will actually meet in the wild card round of the postseason with the Seahawks traveling to Washington to play the Redskins. It's going to be a good postseason.
P.S. There is also an interesting game on the other NFC wild card game with the Vikings now going to Green Bay to play the Packers. Let's see if the Pack can stop Peterson at home.
P.P.S. Click here for a full recap of the 49ers win over the Cardinals. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com for updates on the team before and after each game.
Monday, December 24, 2012
Steelers Out, Cowboys and G-Men Lose, Packers in Line for a #2 Seed and More
Week 16 was a big week in the NFL for the playoff picture and some playoff hopefuls. The Steelers, however, have gone down to playoff "Nopefuls."
The Cincinnati Bengals have lost their last 5 games against the Pittsburgh Steelers but could make up for all of that by clinching a playoff spot at Heinz Field. It was a close game throughout being tied up at 10-10. The Steelers had the ball with 44 seconds left in the game and were trying to get within field goal range for their kicker. Ben Roethlisberger then made a mistake and threw an interception to Safety Reggie Nelson of the Bengals on a pass intended for WR Mike Wallace. After a 21 yard pass from Andy Dalton to AJ Green, the Bengals kicker Josh Brown hit a 37 yard field goal to win the game with 4 seconds left. Bengals win 13-10 clinching a playoff spot while also eliminating the Steelers from the postseason picture.
Meanwhile, there were a lot of big games involving the NFC East teams. First, the Redskins were able to hold off the Eagles to win it 27-20. Robert Griffin III made his return after a week off due to injury and went 16/24 for 198 passing yards, 2 TD passes, and one INT. Meanwhile, the Cowboys fought back from14 down against the Saints and managed to tie the game forcing OT. However, the Saints got the ball after the Cowboys initial possession and managed to hit the game winning FG after a fumble by Marques Colston went their way and the ball was recovered by Saints TE Jimmy Graham at the Dallas 2. Garrett Hartley hit the 20 yard chip shot to win it for the Saints 34-31. As for the G-Men, they get manhandled for a 2nd week in row (though not shutout) with this loss coming at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens 33-14. The Ravens had 25 first downs in this game compared to the G-Men's 11 and had the ball for nearly 40 minutes.
As for other games in the NFL, the Packers destroyed the Jaguars 55-7 as Aaron Rodgers threw 3 TD passes in this game. That win combined with the 49ers loss gives Green Bay control of the #2 seed in the NFC heading into the last week of the season. Andrew Luck and the Colts clinched a playoff spot with a win over the Chiefs 20-13. The Colts get back into the playoffs after the horrible season last year. Last I'll mention that the Patriots and the Broncos win their respective games while the Texans fall to the Vikings 23-6. Houston still has control of the #1 seed in the AFC with the tie breaker over Denver while the Broncos have a 1 game lead over the Pats for the #2 seed.
One more week means some great games to finish the season. The biggest one might be the Redskins and the Cowboys taking over Sunday Night with the NFC East title on the line.
P.S. For a recap on the 49ers loss, click here. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com before and after every game.
The Cincinnati Bengals have lost their last 5 games against the Pittsburgh Steelers but could make up for all of that by clinching a playoff spot at Heinz Field. It was a close game throughout being tied up at 10-10. The Steelers had the ball with 44 seconds left in the game and were trying to get within field goal range for their kicker. Ben Roethlisberger then made a mistake and threw an interception to Safety Reggie Nelson of the Bengals on a pass intended for WR Mike Wallace. After a 21 yard pass from Andy Dalton to AJ Green, the Bengals kicker Josh Brown hit a 37 yard field goal to win the game with 4 seconds left. Bengals win 13-10 clinching a playoff spot while also eliminating the Steelers from the postseason picture.
Meanwhile, there were a lot of big games involving the NFC East teams. First, the Redskins were able to hold off the Eagles to win it 27-20. Robert Griffin III made his return after a week off due to injury and went 16/24 for 198 passing yards, 2 TD passes, and one INT. Meanwhile, the Cowboys fought back from14 down against the Saints and managed to tie the game forcing OT. However, the Saints got the ball after the Cowboys initial possession and managed to hit the game winning FG after a fumble by Marques Colston went their way and the ball was recovered by Saints TE Jimmy Graham at the Dallas 2. Garrett Hartley hit the 20 yard chip shot to win it for the Saints 34-31. As for the G-Men, they get manhandled for a 2nd week in row (though not shutout) with this loss coming at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens 33-14. The Ravens had 25 first downs in this game compared to the G-Men's 11 and had the ball for nearly 40 minutes.
As for other games in the NFL, the Packers destroyed the Jaguars 55-7 as Aaron Rodgers threw 3 TD passes in this game. That win combined with the 49ers loss gives Green Bay control of the #2 seed in the NFC heading into the last week of the season. Andrew Luck and the Colts clinched a playoff spot with a win over the Chiefs 20-13. The Colts get back into the playoffs after the horrible season last year. Last I'll mention that the Patriots and the Broncos win their respective games while the Texans fall to the Vikings 23-6. Houston still has control of the #1 seed in the AFC with the tie breaker over Denver while the Broncos have a 1 game lead over the Pats for the #2 seed.
One more week means some great games to finish the season. The biggest one might be the Redskins and the Cowboys taking over Sunday Night with the NFC East title on the line.
P.S. For a recap on the 49ers loss, click here. Be sure to check out the 49ers section at prosportsblogging.com before and after every game.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Thanksgiving Football: Blowouts and an OT
Hope you all had a great Thanksgiving day. If not, three football games hopefully took your mind off that fact.
The first one ended up being a close finish. The Texans and the Lions played a back and forth game and then some. Every time that the Lions got in front, the Texans came back. Houston didn't grab the lead until the overtime winning field goal that gave them the win 34-31. Both teams had over 1000 yards of combined offense in this game but it's the Texans that get the win and possibly end the postseason chase for the Lions.
The next game featured the traditional Cowboys and Indians match up but this time with Robert Griffin III. The Redskins came to Dallas to play the Cowboys in their traditional home Thanksgiving game and from the start RG3 owned this game. RG3 threw for 311 passing yards for 4 TDs and one INT. The Redskins went up 28-3 by halftime. The Cowboys didn't go away and tried to come back but they ended up losing to the Redskins 38-31 anyway. Tony Romo threw the ball 62 times in this one for 441 yards and 3 TDs but he also threw 2 INTs. This was also Romo's first loss as Cowboys QB on Thanksgiving.
The last "game" of the day was the Patriots coming into New Jersey and putting the Jets to bed and not with Turkey. A crazy 2nd quarter which involved 3 Tom Brady TD throws and a couple of fumbles returned for TDs gave the Pats 35 points in the quarter alone. The Jets ended up turning the ball over 5 times with 4 of those by fumbles. The Pats destroy the Jets 49-19 and dash any remaining chance for a postseason for NYJ.
I am thankful that yesterday featured a great day of football for us all to enjoy. Hope it wasn't all you did though. Now I got to go. I got leftover Pumpkin Pie for breakfast.
P.S. Can the Jets open their Christmas present early this year?
The first one ended up being a close finish. The Texans and the Lions played a back and forth game and then some. Every time that the Lions got in front, the Texans came back. Houston didn't grab the lead until the overtime winning field goal that gave them the win 34-31. Both teams had over 1000 yards of combined offense in this game but it's the Texans that get the win and possibly end the postseason chase for the Lions.
The next game featured the traditional Cowboys and Indians match up but this time with Robert Griffin III. The Redskins came to Dallas to play the Cowboys in their traditional home Thanksgiving game and from the start RG3 owned this game. RG3 threw for 311 passing yards for 4 TDs and one INT. The Redskins went up 28-3 by halftime. The Cowboys didn't go away and tried to come back but they ended up losing to the Redskins 38-31 anyway. Tony Romo threw the ball 62 times in this one for 441 yards and 3 TDs but he also threw 2 INTs. This was also Romo's first loss as Cowboys QB on Thanksgiving.
The last "game" of the day was the Patriots coming into New Jersey and putting the Jets to bed and not with Turkey. A crazy 2nd quarter which involved 3 Tom Brady TD throws and a couple of fumbles returned for TDs gave the Pats 35 points in the quarter alone. The Jets ended up turning the ball over 5 times with 4 of those by fumbles. The Pats destroy the Jets 49-19 and dash any remaining chance for a postseason for NYJ.
I am thankful that yesterday featured a great day of football for us all to enjoy. Hope it wasn't all you did though. Now I got to go. I got leftover Pumpkin Pie for breakfast.
P.S. Can the Jets open their Christmas present early this year?
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.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Is It Tebow Time Yet?
Unless it is Tebow time, this is going to be a short posting.
Texans went to New York, beat the Jets 23-17, Mark Sanchez once again looks awful. Texans, meanwhile, undefeated at 5-0 with Arian Foster doing much of the work today with 29 carries, 152 rushing yards, and a TD. Jets, meanwhile, fall under .500 at 2-3.
The Jets have a lot problems on both sides of the ball that don't have to do with Mark Sanchez. But quite frankly Sanchez is not helping his team. Except for week 1, Sanchez has been awful for the Jets. 5 INTs vs. 3 TD passes with a completion percentage under 50%. They say that Tebow can't throw above 50% but you know what he can do better than Sanchez? He can run. Right now Sanchez is not proving he can be a more effective QB than Tebow at QB and that is a troubling.
The Jets have certainly put a lot of pressure on him but Mark Sanchez has to respond positively to the pressure. Athletes are determined by how they respond to the pressure around them (fair or unfair) and Mark Sanchez is right now failing that test.
Texans went to New York, beat the Jets 23-17, Mark Sanchez once again looks awful. Texans, meanwhile, undefeated at 5-0 with Arian Foster doing much of the work today with 29 carries, 152 rushing yards, and a TD. Jets, meanwhile, fall under .500 at 2-3.
The Jets have a lot problems on both sides of the ball that don't have to do with Mark Sanchez. But quite frankly Sanchez is not helping his team. Except for week 1, Sanchez has been awful for the Jets. 5 INTs vs. 3 TD passes with a completion percentage under 50%. They say that Tebow can't throw above 50% but you know what he can do better than Sanchez? He can run. Right now Sanchez is not proving he can be a more effective QB than Tebow at QB and that is a troubling.
The Jets have certainly put a lot of pressure on him but Mark Sanchez has to respond positively to the pressure. Athletes are determined by how they respond to the pressure around them (fair or unfair) and Mark Sanchez is right now failing that test.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Falcons Beat Manning and Broncos on MNF
Peyton Manning had a fine week 1 performance and so did the replacement refs for the most part. Both sucked this week.
Yesterday had the Broncos and Manning going into Atlanta to face the Falcons. Manning threw for 253 yards and 2 TDs last week vs. the Steelers defense so it should stand to reason he should do better against the Falcons D. However, Atlanta was ready for him, especially in the 1st quarter. Peyton Manning threw 3 picks and all in the 1st quarter and all in the first three drives of the Broncos. Now the Broncos managed to cut the lead down to 6 late in the 4th quarter but the Falcons got it back and managed to convert for 1st downs to win the game. Falcons win 27-21.
The other story of the week were the replacement refs and their mistakes. They didn't really have an overall effect on the outcome but with time. The game took forever to complete because of the officiating mistakes and delays. They couldn't even manage to separate players after a fumble. It wasn't just this game but all over the NFL this last week. Fumble call on a throw in the Eagles win, a play that shouldn't have happened in the 49ers win, ruling that Roger Goodell's Toupee looks real.
The NFL's arrogance is getting tiring to see here and everywhere else. As for Manning, too little evidence to say this is cause for concern. Probably just a fluke performance. Can't afford that vs. the Texans, though.
Yesterday had the Broncos and Manning going into Atlanta to face the Falcons. Manning threw for 253 yards and 2 TDs last week vs. the Steelers defense so it should stand to reason he should do better against the Falcons D. However, Atlanta was ready for him, especially in the 1st quarter. Peyton Manning threw 3 picks and all in the 1st quarter and all in the first three drives of the Broncos. Now the Broncos managed to cut the lead down to 6 late in the 4th quarter but the Falcons got it back and managed to convert for 1st downs to win the game. Falcons win 27-21.
The other story of the week were the replacement refs and their mistakes. They didn't really have an overall effect on the outcome but with time. The game took forever to complete because of the officiating mistakes and delays. They couldn't even manage to separate players after a fumble. It wasn't just this game but all over the NFL this last week. Fumble call on a throw in the Eagles win, a play that shouldn't have happened in the 49ers win, ruling that Roger Goodell's Toupee looks real.
The NFL's arrogance is getting tiring to see here and everywhere else. As for Manning, too little evidence to say this is cause for concern. Probably just a fluke performance. Can't afford that vs. the Texans, though.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Cowboys Spoil Opener for G-Men and My Super Bowl XLVII Pick (Please Let Me Be Right)
Finally kickoff is here and the football season can begin.
Because of the President's speech being tomorrow night, the NFL season kicked off tonight as planned and started in New Jersey with the Dallas Cowboys going against the New York Giants. These two teams played at the end of the last season which had the Giants going into the playoffs and leaving the Cowboys eating their dust. What better way to get back at the Giants than spoiling their opening night.
Tony Romo remembered that night and played like heck to avenge it. After a less than average start to the game which included a INT, Romo rebounded and managed to lead the Cowboys down field for a TD pass to Kevin Ogletree with about a minute to go in the first half. Romo came out in the second half delivering two long TD passes in the 3rd and 4th quarter respectively with the one in the 4th being on a 1st and 30 play. The Giants would score to put it within seven but the Cowboys got the ball back and managed to kill the clock off. Cowboys win the first NFL game of the season 24-17.
Truly a phenomenal performance by Romo and the Cowboys all around. A shaky start for the team and quite a few penalties as well (13) but they managed to exploit the secondary and win the game. Kevin Ogletree made a name for himself tonight in the process catching 8 balls for 114 yards and 2 TDs. As for the Giants, time to stop celebrating and get back to the chalk board. Also, look the ball into your hands, Victor Cruz.
The season starts and who am I picking to win the Super Bowl? I'm going hometown favorite on this pick and choosing the San Francisco 49ers over the Houston Texans to win the Super Bowl. There is no way to say this isn't a bias pick. All I can say is that I am a pessimist at heart and as I make this pick, I don't believe the 49ers will win the Super Bowl. YES, I KNOW THAT SOUNDS CRAZY!!!
I'm basically trying to fight my negative side to make this pick. GO NINERS!!!
P.S. Them or the Eagles. DAMN IT!!!
Because of the President's speech being tomorrow night, the NFL season kicked off tonight as planned and started in New Jersey with the Dallas Cowboys going against the New York Giants. These two teams played at the end of the last season which had the Giants going into the playoffs and leaving the Cowboys eating their dust. What better way to get back at the Giants than spoiling their opening night.
Tony Romo remembered that night and played like heck to avenge it. After a less than average start to the game which included a INT, Romo rebounded and managed to lead the Cowboys down field for a TD pass to Kevin Ogletree with about a minute to go in the first half. Romo came out in the second half delivering two long TD passes in the 3rd and 4th quarter respectively with the one in the 4th being on a 1st and 30 play. The Giants would score to put it within seven but the Cowboys got the ball back and managed to kill the clock off. Cowboys win the first NFL game of the season 24-17.
Truly a phenomenal performance by Romo and the Cowboys all around. A shaky start for the team and quite a few penalties as well (13) but they managed to exploit the secondary and win the game. Kevin Ogletree made a name for himself tonight in the process catching 8 balls for 114 yards and 2 TDs. As for the Giants, time to stop celebrating and get back to the chalk board. Also, look the ball into your hands, Victor Cruz.
The season starts and who am I picking to win the Super Bowl? I'm going hometown favorite on this pick and choosing the San Francisco 49ers over the Houston Texans to win the Super Bowl. There is no way to say this isn't a bias pick. All I can say is that I am a pessimist at heart and as I make this pick, I don't believe the 49ers will win the Super Bowl. YES, I KNOW THAT SOUNDS CRAZY!!!
I'm basically trying to fight my negative side to make this pick. GO NINERS!!!
P.S. Them or the Eagles. DAMN IT!!!
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
2012 AFC South Preview: NO MORE MANNING!!!
Come on out other teams of the AFC South, Peyton Manning's reign is over.
Since the AFC South was formed, Manning and the Colts had won all but two of the division titles through 2010 (and finished 2nd in those other two seasons). Last season the trend bucked as they finished 4th due to the fact that Manning missed the entire season. Now that Manning is gone, the Colts are left in rebuilding mode with Andrew Luck as their new overseer. The Colts will be focusing on his development for the entire season practically leaving them out of the mix.
Despite the absence of Manning, two other teams in the AFC South still won't be able to claim the division this year. The Jaguars and the Titans are going to be developing their young QBs as well as going after a possible Wild Card seed so getting 2nd place in the division will be a priority for both clubs. While the overall edge goes to the Titans, don't count out the Jags as their early season schedule seems much easier than Tennessee's.
In absence of the QB king, the power void in the AFC South obviously gets filled by the Texans. This team was very good last year, even when Matt Schaub was injured. Their offense is great along with the defense. They are a sure lock for that division. There doesn't seem to be that many weaknesses on that team.
This has to be the Texans year and it could their time as rulers of the AFC South. But they can't take that for a sure thing and best put all the chips on the table now.
Since the AFC South was formed, Manning and the Colts had won all but two of the division titles through 2010 (and finished 2nd in those other two seasons). Last season the trend bucked as they finished 4th due to the fact that Manning missed the entire season. Now that Manning is gone, the Colts are left in rebuilding mode with Andrew Luck as their new overseer. The Colts will be focusing on his development for the entire season practically leaving them out of the mix.
Despite the absence of Manning, two other teams in the AFC South still won't be able to claim the division this year. The Jaguars and the Titans are going to be developing their young QBs as well as going after a possible Wild Card seed so getting 2nd place in the division will be a priority for both clubs. While the overall edge goes to the Titans, don't count out the Jags as their early season schedule seems much easier than Tennessee's.
In absence of the QB king, the power void in the AFC South obviously gets filled by the Texans. This team was very good last year, even when Matt Schaub was injured. Their offense is great along with the defense. They are a sure lock for that division. There doesn't seem to be that many weaknesses on that team.
This has to be the Texans year and it could their time as rulers of the AFC South. But they can't take that for a sure thing and best put all the chips on the table now.
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