NFL Week 17: It's the Final Countdown...

[Dr. Sak]

This gets better and better!! I love it!

[Eaglesfan27]

I can't believe how well this is going.

[Izulde]

FASANO!!!

Way to come back alive after so many dormant weeks for us!!!

21-17 Miami!!!

[Dr. Sak]

In the words of Bill Yost from Remember The Titans....

"Run it up Andy...leave no doubt!"

[EagleFan]

14-0 Eagles this half and their offense hasn't even been on the field.

[Dr. Sak]

Just when I think the Cowboys cant do anything dumber...they fumble again and TOTALLY REDEEM THEMSELVES!

[sabotai]

We secretly replaced the Dallas Cowboys with a local high school team. Let's see if they notice!

[JonInMiddleGA]

I guess our local contingent was correct, in order to win, the Eagles have to run the ball ... back. ;)

[Eaglesfan27]

Unbelievable. I feel like I'm dreaming. Can't stop laughing and smiling.

[molson]

This is the most entertaining regular season NFL weeks I can remember.

Just need a Jets win to cap it off....

[duckman]

I seriously want to punch Jerry Jones in the face.

[MIJB#19]

Unreal. Barring a sensational Cowboys comeback, the Eagles are sneaking into the playoffs, with some help from the Raiders and Texans. Unreal.

[Lathum]

I wonder if the Cowboys coaching staff is still intact for next season?

[M GO BLUE!!!]

Maybe I should have watched the Cowboyz & Tony "Fumble!" Romo.

[EagleFan]

5 consecutive posessions ended with a turnover. Wow.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Might be a good time to be a high priced real estate agent in the Dallas area, probably going to be some business soon (at least from the seller's end).

[EagleFan]

I seriously want to punch Jerry Jones in the face.

Careful, the facelift could blow and take you both out.

[Young Drachma]

Wow. what a drubbing.

[Eaglesfan27]

I wonder if the Cowboys coaching staff is still intact for next season?

I sure hope so.

[EagleFan]

Almost a pick 6 there.

[Dr. Sak]

At least the Cowboys don't have to worry about losing another playoff game this year.

[duckman]

[McNabb] is showing today why experts call him a top 5 QB who can't win big games ala Tony Romo.
Fixed

[Eaglesfan27]

Fixed

McNabb has won plenty of big playoff games. He has a great record in December and the playoffs unlike Romo who is a sub .500 QB in December and who constantly chokes in the playoffs. McNabb had a great 1st half when the game was still in doubt and plays were needed from him.

[duckman]

McNabb has won plenty of big playoff games. He has a great record in December and the playoffs unlike Romo who is a sub .500 QB in December and who constantly chokes in the playoffs. McNabb had a great 1st half when the game was still in doubt and plays were needed from him.
Super Bowl Rings

McNabb 0
Romo 0

McNabb = Romo

[Young Drachma]

Brett better deliver or else.

[Logan]

Super Bowl Rings

McNabb 0
Romo 0

McNabb = Romo

Weak.

[Young Drachma]

Hey, so John Kasay -- the last original Panther -- booted them into the playoffs again today. Does his number get retired when he's done?

[Dr. Sak]

Duckman...you just sound stupid. McNabb has been to 4 NFC title games with shit for WR. The ONE year he had one they went to the Super Bowl.

But I guess you have to pick on someone since your team is about 4th BCS game in a row.

[Senator]

This is like an anti-Cowboy masturbation party.

[duckman]

Weak.
Weak?

McNabb has choked in 4 of 5 NFC Championship games and 1 Super Bowl appearance. Teams in the NFC East don't call him McChoke for nothing.

[Young Drachma]

Just read the playoff scenarios and so, the Jets win won't matter...Chad should go ahead and win it for Miami, Brett should go back to Mississippi and Mangenius should be fired.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3711069

[duckman]

Duckman...you just sound stupid.
No more stupid than calling McNabb a top 5 quarterback.

[Eaglesfan27]

Weak?

McNabb has choked in 4 of 5 NFC Championship games and 1 Super Bowl appearance. Teams in the NFC East don't call him McChoke for nothing.

Such a short memory. McNabb made play after play whether it was by scrambling or with throws out of the pocket to get them to those Championship Games with some of the weakest WR corps in the NFL. The Eagles wouldn't have been in all of those games if it wasn't for McNabb who singlehandedly was the offense in some of those years. The 1 year he had a real WR he put up a 104 QB rating. If had a consistent WR threat throughout his career like Peyton has had with Marvin and Reggie Wayne, we'd be talking about McNabb as a top 3 QB and he would have won even more playoff games.

[Logan]

Weak?

McNabb has choked in 4 of 5 NFC Championship games and 1 Super Bowl appearance. Teams in the NFC East don't call him McChoke for nothing.

Did you even read the drivel you wrote? Your argument was disgustingly weak, as is this one:

Super Bowl rings:

Dan Marino: 0
Trent Dilfer: 1

Dilfer > Marino

[ISiddiqui]

To be fair, McNabb also had a HoF type receiver. So it could have been more TO's doing than McNabb's. Though I don't consider McNabb a choker, regardless.

[Eaglesfan27]

In case you need a reminder, his receiving corp those years consisted of the legendary Freddie Mitchell, James Thrash (who had 3 of the best years of his career with the Eagles thanks to McNabb), and the ever forgettable Todd Pinkston. McNabb won with terrible receivers, 2 of which couldn't even stay in the league once the Eagles realized they needed to upgrade the weapons around McNabb (which they are finally showing some small measure of success doing.)

[Izulde]

Whew. Much-needed insurance FG there. 24-17. Ton of time left, though.

[Dr. Sak]

This is like an anti-Cowboy masturbation party.

Yeah, I'm sure it would be anti-Pats too but some Pats posters would get their panties ruffled ;)

[RedKingGold]

Romo can only dream about choking away as many NFC Championship games as McNabb.

:)

[duckman]

Romo can only dream about choking away as many NFC Championship games as McNabb.

:)

:D

[Radii]

Hey, so John Kasay -- the last original Panther -- booted them into the playoffs again today. Does his number get retired when he's done?

two diametrically opposed comments here:

1) Having been a fan of the Panthers since the day it was announced that an NFL team would be coming to North Carolina, I will be truly sad when Kasay retires. I hope he remains effective for years to come as a field goal kicker.


2) I will never forgive Kasay for his kickoff out of bounds with 1:08 to go in Super Bowl XXXVIII in a tie game against the Patriots. i don't blame Kasay for the loss, after all, the game was only tied, the Panthers defense needed a stop to force overtime. But that kickoff out of bounds served up the super bowl on a silver platter.


Overall I feel a great affinity towards the guy as the longest lasting player on my favorite franchise, but that kickoff is the first play I think of when I think about his career.

[Eaglesfan27]

Don't forget that Pinkston wasn't much of a WR, yet he was the Eagles 2nd best WR in their Super Bowl year. It wasn't McNabb, it was Pinkston who sat out the 2nd half of the Super Bowl with cramps, yet McNabb still almost beat a very good Patriots team with T.O and Westbrook being his only real weapons around him.

[Dr. Sak]

You mean Todd Stinkston?

[Dr. Sak]

Great throw Favre!

[hoopsguy]

I wonder if the Cowboys coaching staff is still intact for next season?

I would hope that there are substantial changes. Wade is not a guy who makes a team better, and it is pretty clear that this mix of players is not good.

At least they didn't pay a bunch of money and draft picks for Roy Williams. Sigh.

Or waste a lot of time on a bum like Pacman ... sigh.

[Eaglesfan27]

You mean Todd Stinkston?

The good old days, when every friend I know had a similar name for the WR's around McNabb. James Trash, Stinkston - what luminaries.

[molson]

Super Bowl Rings

McNabb 0
Romo 0

McNabb = Romo

That's like the classic dopey sports fan argument. We just need 3 more for a Mt. Rushmore.

[SirFozzie]

Oh well. Pats don't deserve to be in the playoffs. Despite all the other factors, if you don't win your division, you have no bitch coming. and they had their chances to win their division

[ISiddiqui]

I wonder if these events are related:

ESPN - Oakland vs. Tampa Bay - Recap - December 28, 2008 (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281228027)

ESPN - Oakland Raiders' Al Davis to miss first game since 1979 (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3795790)

Hmmmmm

[Dr. Sak]

The good old days, when every friend I know had a similar name for the WR's around McNabb. James Trash, Stinkston - what luminaries.

I miss Fred Ex's first down signal and then putting on the Championship Belt.

[Eaglesfan27]

I love it. The announcers say, "we don't have time to go through all of the scoring plays."


Sheesh, just saw that horrible interception by Favre.

[Izulde]

Yay!!!! Huge 4th down conversion there!!!!

2:00 is still a lot of time though if the Jets get the ball back without Miami scoring.

[Matthean]

Weak?

McNabb has choked in 4 of 5 NFC Championship games and 1 Super Bowl appearance. Teams in the NFC East don't call him McChoke for nothing.

McNabb at least made it to those NFC Champ and SB games. Romo has been where? (insert "On vacation with Jessica that one time" jokes here). The only time he had a credible WR was when the WR in question missed all of the playoffs besides the SB itself. In other words, McNabb has pretty much had near a fraction of the WR talent that Romo has in terms of getting to the kind of games he can't even get to. Look at what Romo has for WRs, TE, and RBs. In a win, or go home type situation, his team is the one who isn't just getting beat, but they are getting embarrassed. Romo can't even carry McNabb's underachieving jockstrap. ;)

[stevew]

Hopefully favre can throw another pick here.

[Jas_lov]

And the Brett Favre experiment in New York ends in massive failure. It couldn't have worked out any worse for Jets fans watching their former QB, who they threw in the trash, beat them out for the division. It was really hard to see Favre struggle as badly as he did down the stretch. And this will be his legacy. Should have listened to Packer management who knew he was done. Sad end to an overrated career.

[yacovfb]

Madden curse strikes again

[Greyroofoo]

Well Pat fans, I guess you didn't root hard enough for the Jets.

[Eaglesfan27]

Entertaining final play.

[stevew]

The Rodgers experiment was a rousing success too.

[molson]

Well Pat fans, I guess you didn't root hard enough for the Jets.

Rooting for Favre is extremely irritating.....

Ah well, I don't think the Pats could compete with the top teams in the AFC, still a great year for them, and at least I'm entertained by the collapse of the Jets/Favre/Cowboys.

[Izulde]

Entertaining final play.

Agreed.

But best of all...

DOLPHINS WIN!!!! DOLPHINS WIN!!!!

YOUR 2008 AFC EAST CHAMPIONS!!!! :) :) :) :) :) :)

What a great year. Miami's finally good again, truly good, for the first time since the Marino era... and as an added bonus, I won my first ever fantasy football championship in my third time of making it to the final game. :)

[EagleFan]

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Radii]

That's like the classic dopey sports fan argument. We just need 3 more for a Mt. Rushmore.


Any argument involving the transitive property belongs. Oakland beat the Jets, the Jets beat the Titans. Clearly Oakland is a better team than the Titans!

[larrymcg421]

The Rodgers experiment was a rousing success too.

I've never seen so much shit thrown at a player who has played as well as Rodgers has this year. How is it his fault that the Packers defense imploded this year? They went from like 6th to 21st.

[EagleFan]

Oh, grats on the turn arounds by the Falcons and Dolphins.

[larrymcg421]

It's been quite a season. And it was nice to see Pennington get some revenge on the Jets.

Does Favre have the record for most Interceptions thrown by someone who was named to the Pro Bowl?

[PilotMan]

The Lions might be 0-16 but I argue that they could have beaten the Browns anytime in this last month. The Browns are truly horrid.

[yacovfb]

Does Favre have the record for most Interceptions thrown by someone who was named to the Pro Bowl?

Conversely, does Rivers have the most TD's and best QB rating for a guy not named to the Pro Bowl? :rant:

[Jas_lov]

I've never seen so much shit thrown at a player who has played as well as Rodgers has this year. How is it his fault that the Packers defense imploded this year? They went from like 6th to 21st.

It's just because he's following the beloved Brett Favre. Rodgers had a great year, much better than Favre, but Rodgers did not have Thomas Jones or a good defense to back him up. I don't know why he said the Rodgers experiment wasn't a success as it's far from over. And it wasn't even Rodgers fault the defense gave up 30 ppg in the last 6 games.

It's just like that guy who said McNabb=Romo when McNabb has had a solid career and a lot of success in the playoffs. Superbowl wins doesn't equal greatness. Terry Bradshaw isn't a better QB than Marino or Elway, and no sane person would say that.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Well, it's almost time for the Broncos and Chargers. I have a fear that the Chargers will put this game away early. I hope not, but I don't have a great feeling about this game.

Hey, for you drinkers out there, here's a drinking game for tonight. Drink every time the Broncos miss an easy tackle. You'll be hammered by the end of the first quarter.

sigh

[Buccaneer]

My wife and I favorite NFC teams are the Cardinals and Falcons. It's too bad that they have to face off next week but at least one of them will win.

I'm calling a Colts-Panthers Super Bowl.

[larrymcg421]

The Lions might be 0-16 but I argue that they could have beaten the Browns anytime in this last month. The Browns are truly horrid.

Detroit might be able to beat Cornell or Dartmouth, but Brown is one of the better Ivy League teams.

[Buccaneer]

Detroit might be able to beat Cornell or Dartmouth, but Brown is one of the better Ivy League teams.

:lol:

[Senator]

My wife and I favorite NFC teams are the Cardinals and Falcons. It's too bad that they have to face off next week but at least one of them will win.


Good, now I know who to cheer against the rest of the way. Call it my little revenge for your hatred of our team.

[Buccaneer]

Good, now I know who to cheer against the rest of the way. Call it my little revenge for your hatred of our team.

That doesn't bother me in the least. :confused:

[Eaglesfan27]

Agreed.

But best of all...

DOLPHINS WIN!!!! DOLPHINS WIN!!!!

YOUR 2008 AFC EAST CHAMPIONS!!!! :) :) :) :) :) :)

What a great year. Miami's finally good again, truly good, for the first time since the Marino era... and as an added bonus, I won my first ever fantasy football championship in my third time of making it to the final game. :)

Congrats to all of the Miami fans. I think Jerry Jones' biggest mistake will be the running off of Parcells. He's done a great job turning that organization around.

[Thomkal]

well I think my beloved Cards got about the best matchup in the playoffs they could with the Falcons. Rookie QB who looked like a rookie in today's game, and a defense that's not very scary other than John Abraham. Cards have lost to all the other playoff teams so at least Atlanta will not have that advantage over them.

[Alan T]

well I think my beloved Cards got about the best matchup in the playoffs they could with the Falcons.

I was thinking the same thing for us Falcons fans :)

[Arles]

The Rodgers experiment was a rousing success too.
2007 scoring offense w/ Favre: No. 4 in the NFL
2008 scoring offense w/ Rodgers: No. 3 in the NFL

2007 Favre: 4,155 yards, 28 TDs, 15 INTs
2008 Rodgers: 4,038 yards, 28 TDs, 13 INTs
(2008 Favre: 3,472 yards, 22 TDs, 22 INTs)

2007 GB scoring defense: No. 6 in NFL
2008 GB scoring defense: No. 24 in the NFL

How many people thought Rodgers would duplicate Favre's "magical" 2007 season in his rookie campaign? Yet, many still feel the difference in QB play was the reason GB struggled this season :banghead:

Throw in the fact that it was Rodgers' first season as a QB and the team was devastated with injuries, there's reason for optimism in GB at the QB spot. How much optimism is there in NYJ for the QB spot?

[Eaglesfan27]

Just realized that depending upon the TV schedule, the Eagles could be playing the Vikings on my Birthday.

[MIJB#19]

So, which team are the Colts hoping for: Broncos or Chargers?

[stevew]

I admire the optimism of fans of a 6 win team.

[Jas_lov]

2007 scoring offense w/ Favre: No. 4 in the NFL
2008 scoring offense w/ Rodgers: No. 3 in the NFL

2007 Favre: 4,155 yards, 28 TDs, 15 INTs
2008 Rodgers: 4,038 yards, 28 TDs, 13 INTs
(2008 Favre: 3,472 yards, 22 TDs, 22 INTs)

2007 GB scoring defense: No. 6 in NFL
2008 GB scoring defense: No. 24 in the NFL

How many people thought Rodgers would duplicate Favre's "magical" 2007 season in his rookie campaign? Yet, many still feel the difference in QB play was the reason GB struggled this season :banghead:

Throw in the fact that it was Rodgers' first season as a QB and the team was devastated with injuries, there's reason for optimism in GB at the QB spot. How much optimism is there in NYJ for the QB spot?

None, as Favre is done and the Jets have given the Packers a 3rd round pick. Would have been a 2nd had Favre not struggled so much down the stretch. Rodgers > Favre in so many ways but some people just look at the records and say "Yep, Favre was the sole reason the Packers went 13-3 last year and Rodgers took them to 6-10." These people just don't know football.

The Packers wouldn't have won 4 games with Favre at QB. He's done. Rodgers has a bright future and everyone knows it.

[Thomkal]

I was thinking the same thing for us Falcons fans :)

Oh I agree. :) Sad to admit it but the Cards are the best matchup for any of the other playoff teams

[JonInMiddleGA]

These people just don't know football.

Which is pretty much what I'd say about those who think Rodgers will ever be a winning QB in the NFL. I'd take Favre with arthritis, a migraine, and a sharp stick protruding from his right eye over Rogers in a heartbeat.

[stevew]

Oh and for the record I think Favre and Ray Lewis are 2 of the most overrated players in pro sports history.

[Pumpy Tudors]

So, which team are the Colts hoping for: Broncos or Chargers?
They probably don't care, as the Colts should destroy either one.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Which is pretty much what I'd say about those who think Rodgers will ever be a winning QB in the NFL. I'd take Favre with arthritis, a migraine, and a sharp stick protruding from his right eye over Rogers in a heartbeat.
You'd take Favre in what? A "throw a game-changing interception" competition?

[yacovfb]

They probably don't care, as the Colts should destroy either one.

Chargers have played the Colts tough the last few years. Even this year, the Colts only won on a 50 yarder as time expired. I'm guessing they'd rather go to Denver.

[Logan]

Which is pretty much what I'd say about those who think Rodgers will ever be a winning QB in the NFL. I'd take Favre with arthritis, a migraine, and a sharp stick protruding from his right eye over Rogers in a heartbeat.

If all those maladies removed his ability to throw the ball directly at defenders, you might be on to something.

[Balldog]

Congrats to all of the Miami fans. I think Jerry Jones' biggest mistake will be the running off of Parcells. He's done a great job turning that organization around.

Sounds like Parcells could be one the move again, there was a story this morning on ESPN about it.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Chargers have played the Colts tough the last few years. Even this year, the Colts only won on a 50 yarder as time expired. I'm guessing they'd rather go to Denver.
I don't think San Diego can bring enough intensity next week. I would not be surprised if they use up all their juice on tonight's game. Obviously, I could be wrong, but I think this is San Diego's playoff game. The Colts are a scary, scary team right now.

[DaddyTorgo]

bah...i'm upset the pats couldn't make it, but given the level of injuries they sustained to key players i suppose the year has to be considered somewhat of a success.

and at least this clears things up and now i can freely root 100% for the Dirty Birds and Matty.

[terpkristin]

Apparently you can't be a fan of the opposing team in the Buccaneers' stadium? Security: Tampa Bay Handcuffs And Ejects You For Rooting For The Opposing Football Team (http://consumerist.com/5119410/tampa-bay-handcuffs-and-ejects-you-for-rooting-for-the-opposing-football-team)

/tk

[Buccaneer]

My wife, son and I were just debating about the playoffs. We were torn on the Cards/Falcons but think the Cards lack of running and usually bad run defense will do them in, even going up against a rookie QB on the road. It all depends on how much Kurt can shread the Falcons secondary.

My son picked the Ravens to win the AFC, while my wife and I picked the Colts. My son kept arguing with me of how the Bolts own the Colts in the playoffs but I said that even if the Bolts win tonight, they are still a mediocre team while the Colts are peaking big time.

I think we were unanimous on the Eagles over the Vikings, solely because of McNabb's playoffs experience and having no confidence in Jackson.

[Logan]

Apparently you can't be a fan of the opposing team in the Buccaneers' stadium? Security: Tampa Bay Handcuffs And Ejects You For Rooting For The Opposing Football Team (http://consumerist.com/5119410/tampa-bay-handcuffs-and-ejects-you-for-rooting-for-the-opposing-football-team)

/tk

Waiting for more info, because I'm sure it's out there.

Call me pessimistic.

[Racer]

So, which team are the Colts hoping for: Broncos or Chargers?

As a Colts fan, I'd much rather see the Colts play the Broncos then the Chargers and it isn't even close. The Chargers are likely much better then their record indicates while the Broncos aren't. In addition, the Colts have struggled against the Chargers the past several seasons while owning the Broncos whenever they play them. We only beat the Chargers by 3 points earlier this season so beating them again is far from a slam dunk.

[Jas_lov]

I said last week that all 4 wildcard teams would be favorites over the 3 and 4 seeds, and that's especially true now with Miami getting in over New England. I'm sure at least one of the home teams will win next week but I don't know which one. Minnesota or Miami I guess.

[terpkristin]

Waiting for more info, because I'm sure it's out there.

Call me pessimistic.

I wouldn't be surprised. Though...can't say I'd be surprised if it were true and he was sober, too...

/tk

[RainMaker]

2007 scoring offense w/ Favre: No. 4 in the NFL
2008 scoring offense w/ Rodgers: No. 3 in the NFL

2007 Favre: 4,155 yards, 28 TDs, 15 INTs
2008 Rodgers: 4,038 yards, 28 TDs, 13 INTs
(2008 Favre: 3,472 yards, 22 TDs, 22 INTs)

2007 GB scoring defense: No. 6 in NFL
2008 GB scoring defense: No. 24 in the NFL

How many people thought Rodgers would duplicate Favre's "magical" 2007 season in his rookie campaign? Yet, many still feel the difference in QB play was the reason GB struggled this season :banghead:

Throw in the fact that it was Rodgers' first season as a QB and the team was devastated with injuries, there's reason for optimism in GB at the QB spot. How much optimism is there in NYJ for the QB spot?

Stats aside, I think the biggest knock on Rodgers has been his poor play in close games late. I remember seeing a stat during the Monday Night game and I thought it said his rating was in the 30's.

[EagleFan]

Apparently you can't be a fan of the opposing team in the Buccaneers' stadium? Security: Tampa Bay Handcuffs And Ejects You For Rooting For The Opposing Football Team (http://consumerist.com/5119410/tampa-bay-handcuffs-and-ejects-you-for-rooting-for-the-opposing-football-team)

/tk

A Raiders fan being ejected from a stadium and he claim he was "just cheering" for his team... Kind of like the guy who gets pulled over while doing 90 in a 45 and asks "What did I do wrong?".

[Jas_lov]

Stats aside, I think the biggest knock on Rodgers has been his poor play in close games late. I remember seeing a stat during the Monday Night game and I thought it said his rating was in the 30's.

I don't remember seeing the stat, but Rodgers has put the Packers in position to win games. Crosby gets a FG blocked in Chicago and misses the game winner in Minnesota and it's somehow Rodgers' fault for losing those games.

He gives them 4th quarter leads against Tennessee, Carolina, Chicago, Minnesota, Jacksonville, ties it up late against Houston, and they lose all these games. People just ignore what he does for 3 and a half quarters and put all the blame on him when a punt his Jarred Bush in the leg.

[molson]

No reason for gambling degenerates to wait for this last game:

(from Vegas.com - Caesars/Station odds)

Atlanta -2.5 at Arizona
Philadelphia -3/-2.5 at Minnesota
Baltimore -3 at Miami

[Greyroofoo]

No reason for gambling degenerates to wait for this last game:

(from Vegas.com - Caesars/Station odds)

Atlanta -2.5 at Arizona
Philadelphia -3/-2.5 at Philadelphia
Baltimore -3 at Miami

I have no idea what team to put money on.

[Pumpy Tudors]

The Broncos are truly terrible. Blow up the whole secondary and replace them with almost anybody. It really can't get much worse than this.

[Dr. Sak]

The Broncos are truly terrible. Blow up the whole secondary and replace them with almost anybody. It really can't get much worse than this.

Yes it can...because once this game is over you will realize that there will be no Arena league for you to watch this year.

[Buccaneer]

Heh. No one is surprised at this but given the Bolts were 4-8, it's still a bit of a shock.

[SirFozzie]

Stick a fork, knife, and any other silverware you have handy in the Broncos. They're done.

[molson]

The Broncos are truly terrible. Blow up the whole secondary and replace them with almost anybody. It really can't get much worse than this.

Deltha O'Neal will be available in the offseason

[Pumpy Tudors]

Yes it can...because once this game is over you will realize that there will be no Arena league for you to watch this year.
Yeah, I guess I'll have to become an ECHL expert like I used to be 7 years ago. I need something, even if it isn't football.
Deltha O'Neal will be available in the offseason
After watching the crap Denver's rolled out this season, I'd almost like to have him back.

[Jas_lov]

Denver can make it a 2 score game here. Too bad they can't stop anybody. Bob Slowick was terrible in Green Bay and I don't know why Denver hired him. This is a epic collapse by the Broncos if they lose. After they beat the Jets in New York, it was all but over.

[yacovfb]

Denver can make it a 2 score game here. Too bad they can't stop anybody. Bob Slowick was terrible in Green Bay and I don't know why Denver hired him. This is a epic collapse by the Broncos if they lose. After they beat the Jets in New York, it was all but over.

...or Cutler could throw a pick ;)

[Jas_lov]

Yeah, so much for that. Stick a fork in Denver.

[MrDNA]

Seems like a few historic-type collapses this year (Jets and Broncos to name two). The Mets should be taking notes.

[henry296]

Seems like a few historic-type collapses this year (Jets and Broncos to name two). The Mets should be taking notes.

Add Tampa to that list.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Hey, for you drinkers out there, here's a drinking game for tonight. Drink every time the Broncos miss an easy tackle.
If you're playing this game and you saw the Sproles touchdown just now, you are drunk as shit.

[kcchief19]

Hopefully Chargers-Colts will live up to the expectations -- two very hot teams playing at the level we expected before the season started.

As someone with an intense dislike of the Broncos and not-so-veiled hatred of Mike Shanahan, this game is very enjoyable.

[st.cronin]

What a terrible weekend of football for me, personally.

[Arles]

Stats aside, I think the biggest knock on Rodgers has been his poor play in close games late. I remember seeing a stat during the Monday Night game and I thought it said his rating was in the 30's.
One of the ESPN shows explained this a little better. If you look at the close losses to Chicago, Houston, Carolina, Minnesota, Atlanta and Tennessee (1-4 points each), Rodgers led 9 scoring drives for 47 points in the 4th quarter. The defense/st allowed 11 for 61 points (in 4 and OT) and that's why GB lost. And that also discounts missed winning FGs in three of the above listed games.

What seemed to happen is that GB would score with about 4-6 minutes left and take the lead. Then, the defense would allow another score 2-3 minutes later - leaving Rodgers to again drive the length of the field in less than 2 minutes. And, in those situations, he struggled this season. Still, you have to look at the defense and special teams - which gave up almost 150 points in the 4th quarter alone this season.

[Kodos]

What a terrible weekend of football for me, personally.

Near-perfect for me!

Dolphins win AFC East? Check.

Patriots miss playoffs entirely? Check.

Cowboys miss playoffs entirely in humiliating fashion? Check.

If the Bucs had made it in, it would have been perfect.

[Buccaneer]

I guess TroyF was right. But I wondered how many people, including him, thought the Bolts would win the division when they were 4-8 (esp. after losing 5 of 6 and only beating KC with luck) and knowing the only shot they had was to win out. Looks like Norv keeps his job, huh?

[Kodos]

Marty is probably annoyed with this result.

[st.cronin]

Brett Favre has not been great, or sometimes even good, in recent seasons. At this point Chad Pennington is undoubtedly a better QB. But I think some people are forgetting how good he was at his best. I still rate him as the best QB I have ever seen play the game - better than Montana, Brady, Marino, Manning, Young, or Elway.

[Atocep]

Brett Favre has not been great, or sometimes even good, in recent seasons. At this point Chad Pennington is undoubtedly a better QB. But I think some people are forgetting how good he was at his best. I still rate him as the best QB I have ever seen play the game - better than Montana, Brady, Marino, Manning, Young, or Elway.

What?

He has a 61% completion percentage for his career, a qb rating of 85, and has averaged 18 interceptions per year over his career.

Favre isn't as good as ESPN makes him out to be and isn't as bad as some of his detractors say, but he's not in the same league as Manning, Marino, or Elway.

[st.cronin]

Elway's completion percentage: 57
Elway's qb rating: 79.9
Elway averaged 14 ints per season.

Stats aren't everything.

[Atocep]

Marino has a comparable rating and completion percentage, but he also played in a era where the west coast offense was a part of every team's gameplan.

Favre's completion percentage and rating are pretty poor for today's qbs. Add to that people seem so willing to give him a pass on the interception problems he's had throughout his career.

[Atocep]

Elway's completion percentage: 57
Elway's qb rating: 79.9
Elway averaged 14 ints per season.

Stats aren't everything.

Different eras. 4 more ints per year over your career is pretty damn big.

[st.cronin]

Marino has a comparable rating and completion percentage, but he also played in a era where the west coast offense was a part of every team's gameplan.

Favre's completion percentage and rating are pretty poor for today's qbs. Add to that people seem so willing to give him a pass on the interception problems he's had throughout his career.

Not sure how you can say that. Favre's career completion percentage would put him in the top ten of this year's qbs.

But, whatever. I'm not interested in arguing Favre's case. There was a time when he was regarded as one of the elite all time qbs, and there will be a time when he will again be regarded that way, after the image of the last few seasons has faded from memory.

[Arles]

I don't think it's unreasonable to put the 94-04 Favre in the same class as Elway or Marino. He averaged 31-16 and nearly 4000 yards (without missing any games). And, in 8 of those 11 seasons he had 30 or more TDs and 16 or fewer Ints.

Elway never had more than 27 TDs in his career, despite playing in 6 of those 11 same seasons. Marino had 31 TDs just twice in his career (granted it was a different era). It's also interesting that Favre (1 every 31 passes) had a similar rate of INTs as Marino (1 every 33) and Elway (1 every 32) in their careers. So, I think it's downplaying Favre's career to state he wasn't in the class of Marino or Elway as he was easily the top QB playing in the 1994-2004 era.

[Eaglesfan27]

This could go in its own thread, but I'll just put it here. ESPN is reporting that Brady's knee still has signs of the infection in the join, the ligaments are loose, and that it could cost him the 2009 season. It will be very interesting to see if they can convince Cassel to stay as insurance in case Brady won't be back.

[RainMaker]

Favre isn't as good as ESPN makes him out to be and isn't as bad as some of his detractors say, but he's not in the same league as Manning, Marino, or Elway.

Oh come on, those other guys you mentioned with perhaps the exception of Marino had much better talent to work with. Elway and Manning had their most succesful seasons when surrounded by superior talent to anything Favre has ever had.

I don't pleasure myself to the image of Favre like many in the media, but he does deserve a lot of credit. He was the only reason the Packers were competitive during his prime. Name some of the big names he's had to throw to. Or perhaps the running backs to take the pressure off him. Edgar Bennett? Dorsey Levens? Antonio Freeman? Robert Brooks? Come on. He was able to polish a turd and made a lot of receivers much richer than they deserved. He never had the offensive line that could give him all day to throw.

Favre is a unique player and tough to judge to others. I think he would have fared much better than Manning with the rosters he has had over the years. However, I don't think he could thrive in a system with players that Indianapolis has had. He's great at turning mediocre teams into great ones. Manning is best at getting the most out of great teams.

[RainMaker]

This could go in its own thread, but I'll just put it here. ESPN is reporting that Brady's knee still has signs of the infection in the join, the ligaments are loose, and that it could cost him the 2009 season. It will be very interesting to see if they can convince Cassel to stay as insurance in case Brady won't be back.

Cassel would be insane to stay. He has had a solid year and will get a nice fat contract from someone like San Francisco, Minnesota or Kansas City.

Favre would actually be a real interesting option for New England. I think he'd have to be assured of being the starter there though for the year. Otherwise I could see them taking a flier at a couple guys with strong arms who have been coached poorly. A guy like Rex Grossman will be available and could get a chance to showcase his arm for a half season under a high powered offense.

[st.cronin]

O'Connell may well be ready to start by 09. He's generally regarded as a better long term prospect than Cassell in Patsland.

I don't see Favre or Grossman making any sense for New England. They could go with a veteran for a year, but it probably wouldn't be either one of those guys.

[Crapshoot]

Cassel would be insane to stay. He has had a solid year and will get a nice fat contract from someone like San Francisco, Minnesota or Kansas City.

Favre would actually be a real interesting option for New England. I think he'd have to be assured of being the starter there though for the year. Otherwise I could see them taking a flier at a couple guys with strong arms who have been coached poorly. A guy like Rex Grossman will be available and could get a chance to showcase his arm for a half season under a high powered offense.

Two words: Franchise tag.

[Alan T]

Two words: Franchise tag.


Can the Patriots actually afford to do that? How much salary cap space would be taken by two QBs if they franchise tagged Cassel? I don't know what the pricetag of that would be, but I can't imagine it to be cheap at the QB position.

I can't see the Pats keeping both of them because of that. They will have to gamble one way or another, there is no way you can have like 1/4th of your entire salary cap eaten up by one position.

[Logan]

It's more like 1/5th but I'll let you have it :).

Brady’s 2009 salary is $5 million and he’s also due a $3 million roster bonus. Relative to the league’s other successful quarterbacks, he’s a bargain. But if the Patriots opt to franchise Cassel as insurance, that means the team will have close to $20 million in salary to be paid out to their two quarterbacks. Additionally, $6.6 million of Brady’s pro-rated signing bonus will count against their 2009 cap. That would mean the Patriots would be spending close to $26 million of the projected $123 million salary cap on these two quarterbacks.

Curran: Brady behind schedule in recovery from surgery - NFL- nbcsports.msnbc.com (http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/28399629/)

I think the most likely scenario is the Pats tag Cassell but swing him to a team for a #1 pick (as opposed to the 1st and 3rd a team would have to give up by signing him, correct?) and use both their 1sts on addressing that aging D. Roll with O'Connell if Brady can't go, maybe sign a stop-gap veteran as insurance.

[Matthean]

But I think some people are forgetting how good he was at his best. I still rate him as the best QB I have ever seen play the game - better than Montana, Brady, Marino, Manning, Young, or Elway.

Montana and Manning are better picks almost to a default because they weren't so highly known for throwing rookie INTs even 15 seasons in. Montana's numbers in the playoffs and certainly in the SB are just sick and wrong. If you want to bring up Montana playing for the 49ers, let's not forget his Monday Night game when he was with the Chiefs.

[ISiddiqui]

Story of how bad Peyton's knee actually was this offseason :eek:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/peter_king/12/29/Week17/1.html

How is he not the MVP this year?

[Logan]

Looks like Mangini is out.

[Young Drachma]

Matt Schaub might not like Houston much, but...surely Matt Cassel will take a lesson from him and learn that being the backup to the big guy and waiting for a disaster is cute when you've got nothing to do lose, but a poor financial decision when folks will pay you big bucks to bail.

[Young Drachma]

Looks like Mangini is out.

Excellent news.

[Young Drachma]

Get a caretaker in there, wait a few years and then get Raheem Morris from Tampa. The guy is Mike Tomlin redux.

[Hurst2112]

Looks like Mangini is out.

That means Favre is probably done as well. Cross my fingers.

[Kodos]

Story of how bad Peyton's knee actually was this offseason :eek:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/peter_king/12/29/Week17/1.html

How is he not the MVP this year?

Holy crap. My admiration for Manning only continues to grow.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

After watching the crap the AFC West teams rolled out at CB this season, I'd almost like to have him back.

Fixed

[Logan]

Looks like Mangini is out.

Very early word makes it seem like Spagnolo will be the top choice.

[molson]

It's so awesome that Pennington won the division over Favre....I think I just grasped that...Did anyone call this scenerio in the Favre drama threads?

Channing Crowder's kind of funny

"Chad beat the hell out of the New York Jets , who let him go to bring in somebody else," said the Dolphins linebacker. "They got rid of him because they thought somebody else was better and now he came back and beat the hell out of him and them at home to win the division championship.

"I love it. I love the Jets' decision to get rid of him. We had all the talent in the world and needed a guy who is a rock, not an off-the-wall, crazy-spinning, underhanded-toss guy."

That's the best description of Favre as a QB I've ever heard.

[gstelmack]

A fitting end to the Favre era after all the drama he caused. Looks like we called it right when saying he'd be more like the 05/06 Favre than the 07 anomaly.

Sad to see the Pats out, but their inability to stop the Jets in that Monday night game did them in.

[Galaxy]

Can the Patriots actually afford to do that? How much salary cap space would be taken by two QBs if they franchise tagged Cassel? I don't know what the pricetag of that would be, but I can't imagine it to be cheap at the QB position.

I can't see the Pats keeping both of them because of that. They will have to gamble one way or another, there is no way you can have like 1/4th of your entire salary cap eaten up by one position.

If you place a player on IR for the season, does it free up that player's cap space for the year?

[Kodos]

I don't think that has any bearing on the salary cap.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out. Hell, he may end up assaulting the door and get yet another court appearance..........

LJ says he wants out of KC - Kansas City Star (http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/955454.html)

LJ says he wants out of KC
By ADAM TEICHER
The Kansas City Star


CINCINNATI | With a most disappointing season finally over, Larry Johnson couldn’t contain himself any longer. Johnson said after the Chiefs’ 16-6 season-ending loss to Cincinnati on Sunday what had been obvious for some time: He wants out of Kansas City.

“Hopefully, my future is not with this organization,” Johnson said after rushing 10 times for 18 yards. “The things that have been going around, I’m not saying it’s (all) their fault. Half of it is mine with off-the-field (stuff) and other things that go on.

“On the football field, my role definitely diminished once I got back. I felt like I wasn’t getting as much (work) as I thought I could and helped as much as I could. They shifted their powers to other players on this team offensively. You kind of feel your time is up in this city and with this team.”

The Chiefs are in the process of changing general managers. Carl Peterson is now out, and chairman Clark Hunt will soon be hiring his replacement.

The two will then decide on whether coach Herm Edwards is retained. But Johnson said he wants out regardless of what other changes the Chiefs might make.

“It’s the environment,” he said. “It’s got everything to do with the environment. It’s what everybody needs. The city is tired of me. The organization has kind of run its course (for him). It’s time to move on regardless of what kind of changes they could make. I’ve been here when they made other changes. It’s just time to let go.”

Johnson’s tumultuous season included a four-game midseason break. He was benched by the Chiefs for three games for being late to meetings and other team obligations. He was also suspended for one game by the NFL for a violation of its personal-conduct policy.

Johnson was charged twice recently with simple assault in separate incidents in Kansas City. In a February incident, Johnson allegedly shoved a woman using his open hand to push the side of her head in a nightclub.

In October, Johnson allegedly spat a drink on a woman at a Kansas City bar.

Johnson returned to a different world than the one he left. The Chiefs early in the season were built around Johnson and a power running game. When he came back, they were using the spread offense and were centered on the abilities of quarterback Tyler Thigpen.

Johnson was an odd fit. Only once in the seven games since his return did Johnson get the ball more than 20 times. Only three times did he get the ball more than 12 times.

There’s no guarantee the Chiefs will use the spread next season even if Edwards is retained.

“I’ve never been a seven-carry-a-game back and expect to break 200 yards,” Johnson said. “That’s never been my style. I wish it could be to help the team a lot more. It’s just not me. (I’m) more of a wear-a-team-down, get your yards in the third and fourth quarter when you just really pound on them.”

The problem, Johnson said, isn’t with his abilities. He’s 29 and took a physical beating during his league-record 416-carry season in 2006.

But Johnson indicated he’s the same player he was when he rushed for more than 1,700 yards in both 2005 and 2006.

“I’ve had two or three 65-yard runs, and I hadn’t had that when I was 21,” Johnson said. “There’s definitely nothing about me wearing down, After I came back, I was on point to get over 1,000. When you have 12 (rushes) for 108 (yards), that says a lot as far as I’ve still got a lot more left.”

[jeff061]

I think they jumped the gun on Mangini. But I'm not exactly upset.

[Thomkal]

yeah Johnson needs to go for sure but I believe he's got a big contract left, and in combination with his off the field stuff may make him difficult to trade and I'm not sure the Chiefs would just outright release him.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

yeah Johnson needs to go for sure but I believe he's got a big contract left, and in combination with his off the field stuff may make him difficult to trade and I'm not sure the Chiefs would just outright release him.

They were ready to trade him last year. Salary isn't an issue as the Chiefs have a HUGE cap surplus at this point. They could eat the contract and still have plenty of salary available for next year.

[Thomkal]

They were ready to trade him last year. Salary isn't an issue as the Chiefs have a HUGE cap surplus at this point. They could eat the contract and still have plenty of salary available for next year.

Ah I was under the impression from the KC blog I read that it was unlikely they would be able to get out from under his contract.

[Kodos]

Johnson is an asshat, no doubt. Sad to see a Penn State guy be such a jerk.

[cuervo72]

This was quite a unique Sunday for me. Left Port Orange at 5:45AM, listened to a mix of 80s on 8 on XM and CDs until 1PM or so, then hopped between the ESPN and FSR game day shows. Gave up on the Eagles' chances when Chicago went up 10-0 (not to mention TBY just playing OAK). Suddenly HOU was up 14-10 and OAK was making a game of it. I couldn't believe it when the TBY/OAK game went final (I was outside Richmond about then). Even if the Eagles blew it, at least they had a chance.

When the Eagles game went 10-3 I decided to try to find some games on the AM, and tried WIP. The game was barely coming in, but I could make out that the score was 17-3 and the Cowboys were driving. Reception was good enough through the INT and the following TD, then I lost it at the KO, but could hear an excited Merrill Reese say something about ":05". I didn't know what exactly had happened until halftime. At that point, Reese was cautiously optimistic (sounded like he had been downright depressed before the 1PM games).

From there it was just unbelievable. I'd get nervous hearing that Dallas was driving and the reception would give out. Then I would hear just enough to hear Reese counting down "he's at the 50...the 45, the 40...". Enough to figure that somehow the Eagles had the ball. Twice (with a brief mention of Bills/Oilers in between). Then a near incredulous Reese declaring the game over, that if it were a fight it would be stopped. And the thought that it was possibly the wildest day in his 31 years of covering the Eagles. I'm agree. I think I was more spent from listening to what transpired than I was from the 13 1/2 hour drive.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Ah I was under the impression from the KC blog I read that it was unlikely they would be able to get out from under his contract.

They'll likely trade him and just take the bonus hit. Probably won't get anywhere near the draft pick they would have got for him 5 months ago, but at least they'll be able to offload him. There will be some GM that wants him to add a power running game. He's happy as long as you feed him 20-30 times a game. But he just quit on the team this year. You could see it in every single run.

[Thomkal]

They'll likely trade him and just take the bonus hit. Probably won't get anywhere near the draft pick they would have got for him 5 months ago, but at least they'll be able to offload him. There will be some GM that wants him to add a power running game. He's happy as long as you feed him 20-30 times a game. But he just quit on the team this year. You could see it in every single run.

I'm sure the Raiders will take him...or maybe Dallas? :devil:

[gstelmack]

The Patriots typically have plenty of cap left over. I don't think franchising Cassel will kill them.

[kingfc22]

All I have to say is...

"How bout them Cowboys!"

HAHAHAH

[jeff061]

I've read rumors here and there that Brady is significantly behind in his rehab schedule. I'd expect Cassel to be franchised.

[JeeberD]

*sigh*

What a bunch of fucking underachieving slackers. Wade has GOT to go...

[Kodos]

But make sure to keep T.O.!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Saw an article stating that Stephen Jackson wants a trade. Chiefs should offer a straight up swap with Larry Johnson. We'll take your trash if you take ours.

[JAG]

*sigh*

What a bunch of fucking underachieving slackers. Wade has GOT to go...

Yep, this turned out to be a pretty lousy season.

[Kodos]

Great news out of Dallas. Zach Thomas says he doesn't fit in a 3-4 scheme, and will likely not return to Dallas next year. Now I can root against the Cowboys without reservation!

[jeff061]

Jerry Jones likes to brag about having a team full of egos and characters. I don't think that works for beyond a year these days.

[molson]

Wade needs to go.

Romo ain't that great either, Dallas needs to let go of the illusion that he's a franchise QB.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Herm Edwards just had his end of season press conference. Outside of saying that he was not going to be back, I'm not sure he could have made it much clearer that he's not coming back next year. He said things like 'they are going to be able to bring in free agents.....' and 'they should be able to create a solid team off of this rebuilding year........'.

Uh, who is 'they', Herm?

[duckman]

Wade is a minor problem. The real problem is that they have Al Davis Lite running this zoo of a football organization.

[Sun Tzu]

I blame this thread for getting the song "The Final Countdown" by Europe stuck in my head.

[Kodos]

Coulda been worse. Coulda been "Rock The Night".

[Young Drachma]

Where will Crennel and Mangenius end up as assistants? After all, if Ted Cotrell could get jobs, why not them?

[cuervo72]

This might be a good time to mention that I heard Turn Up the Radio during my drive yesterday, which pleased me.

[molson]

Where will Crennel and Mangenius end up as assistants? After all, if Ted Cotrell could get jobs, why not them?

Crennel's had three seperate tenures with Bellichick, another reunion wouldn't be surprising.

[Scoobz0202]

I'm still pissed off at the Dallas Cowboys (Huge Cowboys fan)

I still can't believe it. Next year was this year. Son of a fucking bitch. I will always be a cowboys fan but this season has tested my love for certain people. I don't understand how Wade Phillips still has a job, and to that certain to say that he will be there next year, Jerry Jones, kiss my ass. This team did not have a real coach this year, at all.

[flounder]

Wade is a minor problem. The real problem is that they have Al Davis Lite running this zoo of a football organization.

I always knew the day was coming when we would turn into the Raiders. I just thought we had about 5-6 more years.

[remper]

Just be glad that you don't root for the Bears. Aside from the one magical run to the SB, this is yet another season where its hard to figure out which way this team is going. Most of the time I'm of the mind that they are a bad team that overachieves. But then they pull wins out of their ass enough times that it gives me hope, only to have them fall flat. They do just enough to win at times, and then look pathetic the rest of the time.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I'm still pissed off at the Dallas Cowboys (Huge Cowboys fan)

I still can't believe it. Next year was this year. Son of a fucking bitch. I will always be a cowboys fan but this season has tested my love for certain people. I don't understand how Wade Phillips still has a job, and to that certain to say that he will be there next year, Jerry Jones, kiss my ass. This team did not have a real coach this year, at all.

By any chance did you happen to run into Bradie James (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3798441) earlier today?

[Lathum]

I wonder where Roy Williams would rather be?

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

Sal Paolantonio breaks down how the Eagles will make the playoffs on Saturday.

http://950espn.com/Audio/tabid/183/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2824/Sal-Paolantonio.aspx

I'll eagerly await his lottery numbers podcast.

[gstelmack]

ESPN - Wade Phillips: Things must change for Dallas Cowboys (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3798441)

Dallas LB grabs sign off fan protesting Cowboys, talking about how he doesn't go to other places of business and protest people. I call BS; don't you complain if you get lousy service at a restaurant? I bet you complain even louder if you'd spent a hundred bucks or several hundred bucks (depending on seats and how many people you took and how much beer you drank) and watched that stinker...

[MikeVic]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3800446

I don't think this is a great idea.

[Coffee Warlord]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3800446

I don't think this is a great idea.

And magically, every player on both Super Bowl teams that made the Pro Bowl will claim a mysterious injury that vanishes just in time for the real game.

[SirFozzie]

Players from the Super Bowl teams will obviously be excused from the Pro Bowl

[Coffee Warlord]

Which just makes the entire idea lame.

[DaddyTorgo]

lame idea

[Logan]

I actually think it makes plenty of sense. No one cares about the Pro Bowl anyway (rightfully so). I'd be much more likely to watch in the week preceding the SB than after, when I've officially ended my personal football-viewing season.

edit: I hope the media uses this as a way to have something else to cover besides the Super Bowl teams. I'm bored by the coverage by the middle weekend.

[miami_fan]

Actually playing the Pro Bowl is a lame idea.

[SFL Cat]

As a Cowboys fan, I'm officially flabbergasted. What a freakshow they have in Dallas.

[ISiddiqui]

I actually think it makes plenty of sense. No one cares about the Pro Bowl anyway (rightfully so). I'd be much more likely to watch in the week preceding the SB than after, when I've officially ended my personal football-viewing season.

edit: I hope the media uses this as a way to have something else to cover besides the Super Bowl teams. I'm bored by the coverage by the middle weekend.

Exactly. I think much more people will watch before "the end of the football season" and the extra eyeballs means extra $$.

[SFL Cat]

I'll tell you the game I miss. The old college all-star game in Chicago. The rookies vs. the defending super bowl champs. The rookies played hard, and unlike the Pro Bowl, where everyone is just punching the clock and going through the motions, the pro teams didn't want to be tagged with the stigma of getting beat by a team of rookies.