NFL Divisional Playoff Games Discussion

[Galaril]

Looks liek these are going to be some of the best matchups in quite awhile. I thinkt he Ravens/Titans and Giants/Eagles games can go either way. I think the Steelers will benefit from the cold and the Chargers having to travel east. The Panthers/Cards game doe not appear to be much of a contest.

I am picking the Giants, Steelers, Titans and Panthers. Everyone keep talking about who is going to be the wildcard team to be the Giants of this year and I have to ask who's to say there even needs to be a wildcard team advance any further?

[albionmoonlight]

I think that the Panthers game won't be close. Then I'm going Chargers, Eagles, and Titans in close games. I'm comfortable with the Chargers pick, but have no freakin clue about the other two.

Panthers over Titans in Super Bowl.

[Hurst2112]

I think that the Panthers game won't be close. Then I'm going Chargers, Eagles, and Titans in close games. I'm comfortable with the Chargers pick, but have no freakin clue about the other two.

Panthers over Titans in Super Bowl.

how's it feel to be a full time dreamer? :D

[EagleFan]

E-A-G-L-E-S Eagles!!!

:D

[Crim]

Ravens over Titans
Panthers over Cardinals
Steelers over Chargers
Eagles over Giants

Ravens over Steelers
Panthers over Eagles

Panthers over Ravens

[Crim]

Oh, and Lions over Gators.

[Buccaneer]

Ravens over Titans
Panthers over Cardinals
Steelers over Chargers
Eagles over Giants

Ravens over Steelers
Panthers over Eagles

Panthers over Ravens


That's about what I have, except substituting in Giants over Eagles.

[Buccaneer]

But if I picked who I want to be in the SB, it would be a Bolts/Cards matchup, but that's not too likely.

[Thomkal]

I will be so happy to come back here and point fingers at all you Cardinal doubters. ;) The game they played earlier this season should have been won by the Cards, they led 17-3 and won't be fazed playing in Carolina's stadium since they know what it will be like now. My one big concern is that it likely will be raining during the game. The Cards are certainly fair-weather friends, so I hope they can overcome that. If not look for an early blow out like the New England and Jets game. Otherwise I think it will be a close game, the lead going back and forth.

And then if the Cards win, I'm rooting 100% for an Eagles win (sorry Lathum, please dont hurt me) so the Cards get another home game and don't have to play in what looks like is going to be frigid NY next weekend.

[Thomkal]

I'll go with Titans and Steelers in the AFC games.

[DeToxRox]

Sorry Titan fans -- I want Schwartz as the Lions HC and it sounds like he is the favorite for the job .. So a loss would be amazing for ya'.

[kingfc22]

This should be good...CBS to interview Pacman after this commercial break:popcorn:

[Lathum]

And then if the Cards win, I'm rooting 100% for an Eagles win (sorry Lathum, please dont hurt me) so the Cards get another home game and don't have to play in what looks like is going to be frigid NY next weekend.

:mad:


I'm actualy pretty worried about the game. Anythime you play a division opponent 3 times in a season it closes the talent gap. Westbrook torched the Giants last game and if they cant contain him it's game over.

Having a healthy Jacobs will make a huge difference as long as we can get a lead then pound them into the ground.

The Giants just haven't played great of late and I get why people are picking the Eagles, I just think the Giants find a way to get it done. IF they weren't coming off a bye I would be alot more concerned, but I think they step it up.

[SackAttack]

Cards will pull off an upset here, but home game or road game, their season ends next weekend.

That's the only game I feel strongly about.

[Dr. Sak]

The Eagles are too much of a Jekyl/Hyde team for me to have any confidence in them. If they play good I think they can win but if they come out like they did last week, they will get blown out.

[gstelmack]

The Eagles are too much of a Jekyl/Hyde team for me to have any confidence in them. If they play good I think they can win but if they come out like they did last week, they will get blown out.

Carolina can play that way too, although not quite down to the Eagles level (mostly Delhomme starts throwing picks for no good reason). That's what has me scared about the Cards. Fortunately they had a bad game the last time they played and still pulled it out.

[MylesKnight]

Well they had the Music City Bowl in this stadium about a week ago... Is this one going to be the Punt Bowl? Best Net Average Wins?

[Jas_lov]

Great throw by Flacco.

[Jas_lov]

Terrible 3rd and 4th downs for the titans. Why does Fisher think that Bironas can't kick a 47 yard FG? He did the same thing in the Houston game and it also failed miserably.

[DeToxRox]

Holy shit what a hit by Ray Ray

[Jas_lov]

Chris Johnson is unstoppable. The Ravens D is failing big time on this drive.

[Logan]

Holy shit what a hit by Ray Ray

...a yard too late though. Good job by Hall.

[DeToxRox]

...a yard too late though. Good job by Hall.

Agreed.

Ugly football .. I love these games. Pads are popping out there right now. Big hit after big hit.

[whomario]

damn, that would have been a great play if it stayed inbounds. If Flacco gets "it" together he´ll make quite some plays with that arm ...

[whomario]

wtf, going for the TD in hat situation is rather stupid ... Tennessee sure with some unforced errors ...

Edit : And another one ...

[DeToxRox]

Nice ball security Fatdale

[Jas_lov]

The Titans have outgained the Ravens by over 2 to 1 and have little to show for it. Hopefully this puts an end to the Kerry Collins being such a great game manager talk. That lob right into the Ravens secondary was atrocious.

[Thomkal]

Man Titans have to be kicking themselves after getting no points out of those two drives

[kingfc22]

Players dropping like flies in this one.

[kingfc22]

Two Titans knock each other off the ball. Wow.

[Izulde]

Nice double collapse by the Titans DBs.

And damn, the injury situation has been just insane this game.

[Jas_lov]

Suggs, Chris Johnson, Rolle, Kearse, and now Haynsworth have gone down.

Flacco made a terrible throw into double coverage but got lucky. The Ravens may take the lead for good here as the Titans have not been able to move the ball in the 2nd half.

[Jas_lov]

Judging by the kickoffs, the wind may be a much bigger factor than I thought. Bironas has a big leg, but he'll be kicking against the wind.

[kingfc22]

Titans down 3 and they will be up against the wind. They might need to get all the way down to the 25 to have a shot to tie.

[kingfc22]

dola

Jas just beat me to the point.

[kingfc22]

Justin Gage is having one of the best games of his career

[Eaglesfan27]

Nice catch by Gage.

[kingfc22]

WOW. Incredible

[Izulde]

Wow!

-Another- Titans TO to kill a score!

[Eaglesfan27]

Man, what horrible turnovers for Tennessee this game.

[whomario]

that´s ridculous and almost comical what Tennessee is doing :banghead:

[Izulde]

That kick by the Titans staffer on the sideline was one of the best plays by Tennessee all day. :D

[DeToxRox]

I swear Flacco stepped out of the endzone. Am I going crazy?

[Rizon]

Didn't Flaco take a full step out of the endzone on that last pass?

[Rizon]

I swear Flacco stepped out of the endzone. Am I going crazy?

Pretty obvious to me he did, but I only saw the play once.

[kingfc22]

Didn't Flaco take a full step out of the endzone on that last pass?

I thought the same as well.

[whomario]

terribly uncreative playcalling here, you have to at least try to get some yardage there, that was played as if they were at midfield with a minute to go, now tennessee with great postion.
Now let´s see how they screw it up this time ;)

[Mr. Sparkle]

I swear Flacco stepped out of the endzone. Am I going crazy?

I am right there with you.

[Eaglesfan27]

I thought Flacco did as well. I thought maybe it was a trick of the camera angle, but I'm not sure.

LenDale White!

[DeToxRox]

Somewhere Dan Orlovsy is like "WTF Ref"

[kingfc22]

He's short.

[EagleFan]

Didn't see that play live initially, was lookign away. After seeing it mentioned here I rewound and watched it a couple times an it sure looks like he did but the angle may have been misleading. I can't believe it didn't even seem to get mentioned by the announcers or the Titans (or didn't notice them going crazy about it).

[kingfc22]

Nice hit by Leonard to keep him from getting it.

[DeToxRox]

While this has been ugly, this has been a blast to watch. I love these slugfests.

[EagleFan]

Expected that to be blocked the way everything else has been falling apart for them when they get close to scoring.

[Izulde]

All tied up.

[kingfc22]

I don't expect the Ravens to put this game in Flacco's hands here late in the 4th.

[Jas_lov]

It's all up to Flacco. The Ravens will count on him to win this.

[Eaglesfan27]

While this has been ugly, this has been a blast to watch. I love these slugfests.

Completely agreed. This has been a blast to watch. Interesting call here on 3rd and 2...

[kingfc22]

Ummm. That play clock was at zero...

[Eaglesfan27]

How is that not a delay of game?

[Jas_lov]

Delay of game should have been called.

[DeToxRox]

Flacco is the new Golden Boy apparently.

Safety and delay of game avoidance!

[kingfc22]

Just as a side note, I think Delay of Game is one of those calls that is constantly missed.

[Rizon]

Refs FTW!

[Izulde]

With all the flags they've thrown today, they miss one that should've been on that DOG.

[Mr. Sparkle]

Just as a side note, I think Delay of Game is one of those calls that is constantly missed.

That's true, but that was more blatant than usual.

[kingfc22]

That's true, but that was more blatant than usual.

I agree with that. It was at zero for a good two seconds.

[ISiddiqui]

Amazing... while we joke about refs being blind... that was just ridiculous.

[kingfc22]

So Ravens with the wind. Get down to the 35 to have a shot?

[whomario]

I don´t get to see all that many games, so a dumb question : Do the Ravens allways play that way, i mean that they basically either run or try to go deep with everything in between happening by accident if at all ?

[Jas_lov]

Ravens need 5 more yards to get a good shot. Remember, they have the wind.

[MikeVic]

bullshit no-call on that delay of game. You know it'll lead to the Ravens kicking a winning FG here.

[kingfc22]

I think if you're the Titans you have to think about taking a timeout here.

[kingfc22]

I'd call a play action pass here.

[Easy Mac]

Why are they playing a song about cumming on a woman?

[Jas_lov]

Now they're well in range of Stover and they have the wind.

[kingfc22]

You have to kick the FG. No doubt about it.

[Izulde]

Edit: NM. I lost the ball in the night.

[kingfc22]

Without the wind, the Titans have a looooong way to go.

[Jas_lov]

They have 1 TO and probably need to get at least the 30.

[kingfc22]

Too bad Frank Wychek (sp?) isn't in uniform today.

[kingfc22]

Hell of a game.

[Eaglesfan27]

Some terrible decisions or playcalls to go over the middle for short passes, stating with that 1st one that used up too much time.

[MikeVic]

So... how about that non-call on the delay of game? Think that'll get some play? Or am I thinking it was bigger than it was?

[Rizon]

lmao @ ten. Way to be a #1 seed.

[kingfc22]

So... how about that non-call on the delay of game? Think that'll get some play? Or am I thinking it was bigger than it was?

It's big no doubt. But the 3 turnovers that erased potential scores was much bigger.

[Buccaneer]

Woot! Bolts can get a home game for the AFC Championship. (still think the Ravens will win the AFC though)

[MikeVic]

It's big no doubt. But the 3 turnovers that erased potential scores was much bigger.

Yeah true. I felt so bad for fans with that Crumpler fumble.

[MikeVic]

Woot! Bolts can get a home game for the AFC Championship. (still think the Ravens will win the AFC though)

Steelers!

[Thomkal]

well that was a nice gift you gave the Ravens Titans

[whomario]

lmao @ ten. Way to be a #1 seed.

Well, it´s not like they played that bad a game. I mean, it´s not like they were outplayed or anything. Not that you deserve to win with those mistakes or that Baltimore didn´t deserve the W, but other than those ultimate mistakes the Titans didn´t play a bad game, especially considering that injury to Johnson who was picking the Ravens defense apart ...

[Buccaneer]

Steelers!

Bolts!

[DeToxRox]

Now .. Jim Schwartz to Detroit .. please?

[Thomkal]

And now on to the big game of the day :) Go Cards!

[Hurst2112]

Bolts!

WRONG!

[MikeVic]

I'm hoping for the Cards to win here, since I think everyone (me included) is expecting the Panthers to win easily. :)

[Jas_lov]

Exactly. Other than 3 turnovers in Ravens territory, 12 penalties, 2 botched snaps, a missed FG, and 2 DBs running into each other that led to the GW FG, the Titans played a pretty good game.

[Cringer]

It's big no doubt. But the 3 turnovers that erased potential scores was much bigger.

My feeling as well. The Titans got screwed, but they screwed themselves even more. It takes 60 minutes.

One hell of a game, I wish I could see those two teams play again next week. The winner of this game was pretty much going to be the team I cheer for to win it all, so I hope the Ravens pull it out.

Also, how is Flacco the first rookie QB to win two playoff games? Did Bib Ben not play anything but the Superbowl in his rookie year? I am confused, someone fill me in here.

[Bigsmooth]

Boldin is out. That hurts.

[Thomkal]

Boldin is out. That hurts.

Yeah that sucks. But Breaston has over 1000 yards this season so hopefully he can step up and have a big game.

[Jas_lov]

Big Ben lost in the AFC Championship his rookie year the year they went 15-1.

[Galaril]

It's big no doubt. But the 3 turnovers that erased potential scores was much bigger.

Yeah as a thirty year Oiler/Titans fan (no lie) this was par for course. The things that stand out for me was:
1. momentum change 15 yard roughing the passer play in the first half
2. Lendale "fatboy" White's fumble at the 15 yard line late in the second (3 points lost)
3. Lendale White's fumble at the 1 yard line!(touchdown lost) score 17-10
4.Missed delay of game call(wow what can I say n]makes the referees look like they were on the take especially with the point spread?)
5. Ed Reed is a dirty player , move over PATS Harrison, if Chris Johnson was injured on that after the play where he was bent back by Ed reed the Titans are in the SB!
In all honest the Ravens did not deserve to win but when as others have stated if you are the first seed at home you have to take it to them and the fumbles really killed them. I guess though whoever wins the Steelers game will DESTROY the Ravens.

Fo r the Titans as usual back to ther drawing board:rant:

[Cringer]

Big Ben lost in the AFC Championship his rookie year the year they went 15-1.

Really? Wow, I was sure they won the Superbowl when he was a rookie. Thanks for clearing that one up.

[Galaril]

Exactly. Other than 3 turnovers in Ravens territory, 12 penalties, 2 botched snaps, a missed FG, and 2 DBs running into each other that led to the GW FG, the Titans played a pretty good game.


That is decidedly misleading to be fair don't you think? The 12 penalties were a joke the one personal for Christsake on the Titans was when Reed, obviously not a hero but a dirty player, tried (successfully) to injury the Titans Johnson. If Johnson didn't leave the game Titans are I the SB.

[Karlifornia]

Fitzgerald is so awesome. I'm full on pulling for Arizona tonight.

[Jas_lov]

I think they lost to the Patriots that year. They won the Superbowl the next year when they were a wildcard.

[MikeVic]

That is decidedly misleading to be fair don't you think? The 12 penalties were a joke the one personal for Christsake on the Titans was when Reed, obviously not a hero but a dirty player, tried (successfully) to injury the Titans Johnson. If Johnson didn't leave the game Titans are I the SB.

Yeah, that one penalty was dumb. The Ravens were trying to bend Johnson in half and the Titans get the penalty.

[Hurst2112]

Yeah as a thirty year Oiler/Titans fan (no lie) this was par for course. The things that stand out for me was:
1. momentum change 15 yard roughing the passer play in the first half
2. Lendale "fatboy" White's fumble at the 15 yard line late in the second (3 points lost)
3. Lendale White's fumble at the 1 yard line!(touchdown lost) score 17-10
4.Missed delay of game call(wow what can I say n]makes the referees look like they were on the take especially with the point spread?)
5. Ed Reed is a dirty player , move over PATS Harrison, if Chris Johnson was injured on that after the play where he was bent back by Ed reed the Titans are in the SB!
In all honest the Ravens did not deserve to win but when as others have stated if you are the first seed at home you have to take it to them and the fumbles really killed them. I guess though whoever wins the Steelers game will DESTROY the Ravens.

Fo r the Titans as usual back to ther drawing board:rant:

Other than your last point...there's a lot of sour grapes in your post. :D

[Danny]

Yeah as a thirty year Oiler/Titans fan (no lie) this was par for course. The things that stand out for me was:
1. momentum change 15 yard roughing the passer play in the first half
2. Lendale "fatboy" White's fumble at the 15 yard line late in the second (3 points lost)
3. Lendale White's fumble at the 1 yard line!(touchdown lost) score 17-10
4.Missed delay of game call(wow what can I say n]makes the referees look like they were on the take especially with the point spread?)
5. Ed Reed is a dirty player , move over PATS Harrison, if Chris Johnson was injured on that after the play where he was bent back by Ed reed the Titans are in the SB!
In all honest the Ravens did not deserve to win but when as others have stated if you are the first seed at home you have to take it to them and the fumbles really killed them. I guess though whoever wins the Steelers game will DESTROY the Ravens.

Fo r the Titans as usual back to ther drawing board:rant:

Fumble at the one was Crumpler

[Logan]

Didn't see that play live initially, was lookign away. After seeing it mentioned here I rewound and watched it a couple times an it sure looks like he did but the angle may have been misleading. I can't believe it didn't even seem to get mentioned by the announcers or the Titans (or didn't notice them going crazy about it).

I rewound it as well after being 100% sure he stepped out.

What happened was as he rolled out and went back, right before he threw the ball he picked up his back foot...with the angle being the way it was, it made it look like his foot was OOB when it was really just in the air.

[Radii]

well damn, couldn't have asked for a better start.

[Bigsmooth]

Pretty much the worst case start for the Cards.

[MylesKnight]

This one looks kind of like a NCAA Hoops Tourney 1st Round Game... Big Sky Champs v. one of the elite from the ACC. You never know, but the odds are fully in one direction.

[Thomkal]

well that's not how I wanted the game to start. :(

[Jas_lov]

Well that was fast. Hopefully this doesn't turn into a blowout like many predicted.

[MylesKnight]

Btw, the play-by-play guy sounds like the same who did the Orange Bowl (I believe) for Fox. Maybe he should stick to the pro stuff.

[Galaril]

Fumble at the one was Crumpler

Thanks that one then is exceptable. Still after looking at the bend back by Reed that was totally a dirty play. Plain and simple Johnsonm doesn't go out Titans win 23-7

[Thomkal]

what an awful play call on 3rd and 16

[Bigsmooth]

what an awful play call on 3rd and 16

No shit. Just throw the ball up to Fitz, christ. They really needed to answer the Panthers on that drive with at least a FG.

[Jas_lov]

Great play call throwing it backwards. Better off just throwing it up to Fitz all day.

[DaddyTorgo]

Thanks that one then is exceptable. Still after looking at the bend back by Reed that was totally a dirty play. Plain and simple Johnsonm doesn't go out Titans win 23-7
:confused:

[Jas_lov]

There you go. Just keep throwing it up to him.

[Eaglesfan27]

Another amazing catch by Fitzgerald. Man, I wish the Eagles could get a receiver like him on their team.

[RainMaker]

Is it safe to say that Fitzgerald is the best WR in football? Never complains, never showboats, just makes big plays.

[Galaril]

:confused:

My point is if the Titans dominaated the Ravens on the field especially in the first half. I was watching thinking I wonder if they beat them 34-10 or something like that when the 1st quarter ended the way the Tutains were moving the ball at will. They had 400 yards totals offense 20 first downs and the Ravens had 200 yards and 10 first downs 2 from penalties. If it was not for Johnson going out with that injury caused by Ed Reed, where he bent back Johnson as his legs were held under a pile AFTER THE PLAY he would have been carrying the ball and not White who fumbled or Crumpler ,thus 10 points at least. Anyways, it is always a tough loss to the Ravens:{

I think my wife and kids are shocked at the "super freak fan" that was in there living room today screaming expletives definitely some damage control there for sure.

[DaddyTorgo]

Is it safe to say that Fitzgerald is the best WR in football? Never complains, never showboats, just makes big plays.

yes

[Logan]

Galaril, just because you write in every single post (across multiple threads) that Reed's play was dirty, it doesn't make it true.

[Thomkal]

Yeah Cards! And yet another great catch from Fitz. I was cringiing when they threw it long on 3 and 1 but guess I can't complain now :)

[Galaril]

Galaril, just because you write in every single post (across multiple threads) that Reed's play was dirty, it doesn't make it true.


Sorry, 7 guiness will. .............Anyways you are a Yankees fan right? So, what do I care what you think?

Signed Red Sox

[Jas_lov]

Wow, what a turn of events after that quick opening TD.

[RainMaker]

I took Carolina -10, I can't believe this is going on.

[Logan]

Sorry, 7 guiness will. .............Anyways you are a Yankees fan right? So, what do I care what you think?

Signed Red Sox

7 whole beers turns you into a jackass? What kind of a nancy are you?

Signed Mets

[Buccaneer]

Wow. Go Cards!

[Thomkal]

Woohoo! that was awesome! Hey if the Panthers score before the quarter ends, they will have already outscored the Titans/Ravens :)

[RedKingGold]

Sorry, 7 guiness will. .............Anyways you are a Yankees fan right? So, what do I care what you think?

Signed Red Sox

7 whole beers turns you into a jackass? What kind of a nancy are you?

Signed Mets

Priceless.

[Eaglesfan27]

That appears to be more than just a little drizzle. I also thought the Panthers were going to dominate and were hoping they would win as I'd rather the Eagles face them if they advance.

[Thomkal]

<----looking back to page 1 to get all those quotes about the Cards not having much chance ready :)

[Logan]

There's really nothing better than when the expected blowout gets sidetracked so early.

Should be fun the rest of the way.

[DeToxRox]

There's really nothing better than when the expected blowout gets sidetracked so early.

Should be fun the rest of the way.

Shut up #1 Sabathia Fan.

[Radii]

Hey if the Panthers score before the quarter ends, they will have already outscored the Titans/Ravens :)


Almost! I'll take them getting down inside the red zone. :D

[MylesKnight]

Anyone else notice the difference of the fields in Nashville and in Charlotte? The Panthers looks almost Super Bowl-esque in comparison to the torn up, faded field in Nashville.

[Thomkal]

that was just a stupid penalty by Rolle, he basically mugged Smith rather than try to knock the ball away

[Jas_lov]

Wow, Jake Dehlomme is giving this game away.

[DaddyTorgo]

that was just a stupid penalty by Rolle, he basically mugged Smith rather than try to knock the ball away

worked out okay though. LOL

[Young Drachma]

I wish the NFL were like college. Then the games wouldn't even matter.

[Radii]

Wow, Jake Dehlomme is giving this game away.

delhomme makes 3-4 throws like that every game. Its just a question of how many of them get picked off.

[Radii]

Key play at the end of that drive to force a long field goal try, a TD would have really been bad there.

[Thomkal]

thanks for that gift of an INT and stupid personal foul penalty. Cards really need to get on Delhomme this next possession and keep him rattled

[Logan]

Shut up #1 Sabathia Fan.

Is that a fat joke?

[MikeVic]

Delhomme just said "FUDGE!!"

[Jas_lov]

Someone might wanna cover Larry Fitzgerald.

[MikeVic]

I was just gonna post that Jas haha. Maybe cover the guy? Fun game!

[SteveMax58]

Someone might wanna cover Larry Fitzgerald.

Yeah...with no Boldin there is no excuse not to double that guy. Hell...triple him if you need to.

But I'm lovin it!!!

[RainMaker]

I don't get it. No Boldin and no coverage on Fitzgerald.

[Jas_lov]

Gotta go here. Punish them.

[MikeVic]

Should have gone for it. What do you have to lose.

[kingfc22]

WTF?! How is Arizona winning 20-7? Left the house figuring Carolina would take this one easily...Guess i was wrong.

[Jas_lov]

Great stop by Carolina and I agree with Moose, they should have went for it. One TD drive here and the Panthers are right back in it.

[SteveMax58]

Cant fault them for not going for it too much...but I would have gone for it.

[Thomkal]

was hoping they'd go for it there, gave the Panthers some confidence when they didn't

[Radii]

If you go for it and fail you lose all the momentum. With the FG you're still the one in charge. IMO at least. But I never saw Arizona as a 10 point dog, I saw them as a team that threw for 380 yards vs Carolina earlier in the year. :P

[Jas_lov]

LOL, if Dehlomme is gonna keep doing that I guess it doesn't matter.

[SteveMax58]

Way to go Jake!!!!!!

[RainMaker]

Who is Carolina's backup?

[RedKingGold]

Wow, I didn't know Jake Delomme played for the Cardinals?

[Radii]

god WTF Delhomme

[Buccaneer]

Everyone said this would be a blowout. They were right so far.

Go Cards.

[Rizon]

So the Cardinals are going to be in the NFC Championship. That just sounds so bizarre to me.

[Eaglesfan27]

If you go for it and fail you lose all the momentum. With the FG you're still the one in charge. IMO at least. But I never saw Arizona as a 10 point dog, I saw them as a team that threw for 380 yards vs Carolina earlier in the year. :P

Agreed. I think kicking the FG was the smart decision.

I guess we might still get a blowout after all. That is why I'd rather see the Panthers advance. I thought he was more likely to throw some stupid picks in the Conference Championship. I'm really surprised that the Panthers haven't run it more effectively this game.

[SteveMax58]

Who is Carolina's backup?

Me.

[kingfc22]

TD!!! Oh my.

[Eaglesfan27]

Sheesh. Fitzgerald is unreal.

[Buccaneer]

By the way, my wife is upstairs both nervous and screamingly excited. I haven't seen her this emotionally into a game in years.

[Jas_lov]

This is amazing. They're just letting Fitz run wide open. I thought the Panthers would eventually overcome 2 early turnovers like the Packers did last year vs the Seahawks last year, but I don't think it's gonna happen. Their QB and secondary look absolutely terrible.

[Thomkal]

wow, that's all I can say, what a half for my beloved Cards

[MikeVic]

AWESOME!

[RainMaker]

Who created the gameplan that doesn't cover Fitzgerald?

[Thomkal]

So the Cardinals are going to be in the NFC Championship. That just sounds so bizarre to me.

Let's not get too hasty here. These are the Cardinals after all. And the Panthers came back from 17-3 down in the game they played earlier in the season, so not calling it over quite yet

[Logan]

This is amazing. They're just letting Fitz run wide open.

Not really letting him...they just can't cover him. They had two on him on that TD and he still got open.

[Radii]

Carolina came back from a 14 point deficit earlier in the year against Arizona, if they can score before halftime and settle down in the locker room its not over yet. They really need a score here though.

[Jas_lov]

I like how all the teams who people said shouldn't even be in the playoffs keep winning. Now watch the Chargers and Eagles win tomorrow to set up two 4 seed vs 6 seed matchups in the championship games.

[Eaglesfan27]

Carolina came back from a 14 point deficit earlier in the year against Arizona, if they can score before halftime and settle down in the locker room its not over yet. They really need a score here though.

True. But if they fail to convert this 3rd down and look bad (like they just did), then I think this is over.

[SteveMax58]

Carolina just aint built to win games like this. Not looking good for them.

[Radii]

True. But if they fail to convert this 3rd down and look bad (like they just did), then I think this is over.

yeah another 3 and out there is pretty terrible.

[MikeVic]

Of course this can be one of those games you remember later on as "down by 20 at the half, the Panthers came back to score three unanswered TDs on the way to victory."

I hope not, but I'll be watching this game after the half. :)

[Young Drachma]

My goodness.

I was just here, doing a few things, I look up and it's all of sudden 27-7. That's what I get for watching it on mute, I guess.

[Bigsmooth]

WTF is Arizona doing right now. They need more points and are basically choosing to settle for a 50+ yard FG.

[Eaglesfan27]

WTF is Arizona doing right now. They need more points and are basically choosing to settle for a 50+ yard FG.

Way too conservative. If I was a Cardinal fan, I'd be very annoyed at that last 2 minutes.

[Thomkal]

oh man just missed with that FG

[Danny]

Way too conservative. If I was a Cardinal fan, I'd be very annoyed at that last 2 minutes.

Indeed, after that initial first down, they should have opened it back up.

[Thomkal]

Way too conservative. If I was a Cardinal fan, I'd be very annoyed at that last 2 minutes.

Yeah I'm scratching my head at the playcalling for those last 2 minutes. Should have been making more an attempt to get it in the end zone. Have to say I like these delayed handoffs to the RB's they are doing though. Keeping the defense guessing.

[Cringer]

This is crazy. Like a Lot of people I though Arizona would probably be crushed.

The next 30 minutes of football for me is all about trying to wrap my mind around the fact the Arizona Cardinals could/will be in the NFC Championship game. I keep thinking how Arizona is a 6-10 team and the NFL felt bad for the fans and let them into the playoffs just to be nice. They could be in the NFC Championship game, just strange. Time for them to same some streets in Phoenix after these coaches and players before they get home.

[Karlifornia]

Just absolute self-destruction by the Panthers. How many times did they even run the ball? You would think after that second turnover they would have at least tried to establish something on the ground.

Arizona gets the ball to start the second half, too. If they score on the first drive, I'm getting drunk and playing my RFL Orange Bowl game.

[DeToxRox]

Just absolute self-destruction by the Panthers. How many times did they even run the ball? You would think after that second turnover they would have at least tried to establish something on the ground.

Arizona gets the ball to start the second half, too. If they score on the first drive, I'm getting drunk and playing my RFL Orange Bowl game.

Better have done EBFL recruiting first ass.

[Thomkal]

Cards get the ball when the second half starts, really need to keep the momentum going, get a long drive going, or quick TD, and that should be all they need to win

[Rizon]

Let's not get too hasty here. These are the Cardinals after all. And the Panthers came back from 17-3 down in the game they played earlier in the season, so not calling it over quite yet

True that. But then again they are playing the Fluke-alina Panthers. Delholme still has another 2 or 3 INTs in him.

[Radii]

How many times did they even run the ball?


9 :(

[RainMaker]

Am I the only one that likes Siragusa on the sideline? I'd love to see it with other announcing crews. A former player with a unique personality reporting directly from the field. A guy like Strahan would be perfect for that role.

[Radii]

hopefully its not too late, that's a much better series by the carolina defense.

[Thomkal]

just amazing how different a team can play after a half-that's how I expected the Carolina defense to play all game

[Radii]

jesus that was terrible.

[MrDNA]

Am I the only one that likes Siragusa on the sideline? I'd love to see it with other announcing crews. A former player with a unique personality reporting directly from the field. A guy like Strahan would be perfect for that role.

Maybe not the only one who likes him, but I certainly represent the opposite contingent; he annoys the bejesus out of me. I never feel like he's adding anything to the game and he seems to have a desperate need for attention and will chime in at the drop of a hat.

[Thomkal]

woot! Rolle in the right place in the right time like the Atlanta game. If they can score off of this turnover, it should be game over.

[Thomkal]

feel bad for Delhomme though being its his birthday and all

[RainMaker]

Doesn't Carolina have to go with the backup at some point? Delhomme has almost as many turnovers as completions. He's thrown for 35 yards.

[Jas_lov]

Delhomme has a QB rating of 9.7

Two more upsets tomorrow and the Cards and Chargers will host the championship games.

[Thomkal]

gotta stop throwing those passes to the outside there-Panthers have read them very well all game

[Young Drachma]

I'd like to see the Cardinals win it all. That team has been around forever and has very little to show for it.

[Thomkal]

I'd like to see the Cardinals win it all. That team has been around forever and has very little to show for it.

You are now my very best friend :D

[MikeVic]

These refs should have been at the Ravens/Titans game. Way to call that DOG.

[Radii]

that delay of game followed by another INT is pretty hilarious.

[Thomkal]

holy crap Delhomme has completely fallen apart.

[Jas_lov]

Deholmme is trying his best to break Favre's record for INTs in a playoff game.

[Radii]

delhomme makes 3-4 throws like that every game. Its just a question of how many of them get picked off.

The answer today: "All of them"

[JAG]

Well that was fast. Hopefully this doesn't turn into a blowout like many predicted.

That's funny on so many levels.

[Radii]

hahaha. go go delhomme.

[Izulde]

Wow 5 picks. Impressive!

[Deattribution]

Why is he still in the game? How many times does he have to be picked off before they realize he's not going to do anything for them?

[Radii]

Why is he still in the game? How many times does he have to be picked off before they realize he's not going to do anything for them?

I'd rather see 2 more INTs than a quarter of Josh Mccown.

[Jas_lov]

Just one more and he ties Favre.

[Deattribution]

I'd rather see 2 more INTs than a quarter of Josh Mccown.

What worse can he do? Delhomme could make David Carr look like Peyton Manning at the moment.

[Thomkal]

the Cards really need to get Leinart in there now, so Warner doesn't get injured when the game is basically over.

[Radii]

What worse can he do? Delhomme could make David Carr look like Peyton Manning at the moment.

Well in part I've been aruging since 2004 that either Fox or Delhomme have to go, Delhomme is totally the wrong QB for the system Fox wants to run. A good panthers fan friend of mine is tired of listening to me bitch about it, we argue about Delhomme at the start of every season. Put in the backup and I'm going to get back on that broken record again ;)

[SackAttack]

the Cards really need to get Leinart in there now, so Warner doesn't get injured when the game is basically over.

Didn't Leinart get hurt in the preseason? Or was that last year?

[Radii]

congrats Thomkal, I'll be rooting for Arizona against either opponent next week.

[RainMaker]

So would Arizona host if Philly wins? Or is it done by record?

[Hurst2112]

arizona would host philly

[MikeVic]

I'll be cheering for the Cards next week too.

[Buccaneer]

Woohoo! Now we have to root for the Eagles. Go Kurt!

[Thomkal]

Didn't Leinart get hurt in the preseason? Or was that last year?

that was last year, he's been fine this year, barely playing though

[Thomkal]

wow can't believe that these are the same Cardinals who pretty much sucked the second half of the season. Shutting down two strong running games, keeping a top receiver out of the game, and a defense that had disappeared making big play after big play. They really got the best possible matchups in the first two rounds, but its going to be a tough haul against either Philly or NY. Especially if they have to play in NY.

I think the Philly game on Thanksgiving was a bit of a fluke, and I can't see them putting up those kinda points again especially with the way the Cards are playing now. So gotta pull for the Eagles tomorrow, such a better matchup I think since they get to play at home in warm weather.

I hope these two games silenced the Cards critics. (yes I'm talking to you people on page 1 of this thread ;) ). But they've used this underdog, nobody believes in us mentality pretty nicely so far, and I'm sure they will be underdogs again no matter who they face in the divisional finals.

Go Cards!

[Buccaneer]

Thomkal, the Cards do have a great veteran QB leading them and that counts for a lot, I think.

[Jas_lov]

The Cardinals are a great story and people like Warner, Boldin, and Fitz are easy to root for. Speaking of Boldin, does anybody know how bad his injury is? Is there a good chance he'll be able to play next week?

[Buccaneer]

Hadn't thought about this, but the Southern teams are 0-4 in the playoffs.

[Thomkal]

Thomkal, the Cards do have a great veteran QB leading them and that counts for a lot, I think.

yep I certainly agree Bucc, its the main reason I liked them over the Falcons so much and gave them a better chance of beating Carolina than many would. He's going up against a good playoff experienced veteran QB in the next round so that may not matter as much.

[Thomkal]

The Cardinals are a great story and people like Warner, Boldin, and Fitz are easy to root for. Speaking of Boldin, does anybody know how bad his injury is? Is there a good chance he'll be able to play next week?

He didn't practice all week with it, and Boldin's a pretty tough guy who plays in pain. Can't see him playing in frigid cold NY if he can't practice much/at all. But maybe at home he will play.

[PackerFanatic]

Crazy...

Go Cards!

[Kodos]

Congrats to the Cards for moving on the NFC championship. Nice to see such a downtrodden franchise enjoy some success.

[MylesKnight]

Anyone read Playing for Pizza by John Grisham? That may be the only playoff performance for a QB that I've ever heard of that was worse than Delhomme's. And that was complete fiction.

Cardinals & Chargers could possibly host Conference Title Games? :eek:

[MIJB#19]

Anyone read Playing for Pizza by John Grisham? That may be the only playoff performance for a QB that I've ever heard of that was worse than Delhomme's. And that was complete fiction.I read the book and have to admit I've pretty much forgotten what was in it. Shouldn't Kerry Collins' performance in Super Bowl XXXV against the Ravens be up there?

[Matthean]

yep I certainly agree Bucc, its the main reason I liked them over the Falcons so much and gave them a better chance of beating Carolina than many would. He's going up against a good playoff experienced veteran QB in the next round so that may not matter as much.

Look at the remaining QBs in the playoffs.

Warner, Eli, McNabb, Ben, Flacco, Rivers. Isn't Warner probably the default pick for least likely to implode? Eli is probably the next candidate, but if you are the Cards in the Super Bowl and you are looking at Ben, Flacco, or Rivers, you got to like your chances.

Side note, the Lions went 0-16. Their former GM and coach already have found jobs while they are without a coach. Now Arizona is one win away from leaving Detroit behind in the worst franchise ever debate. Screwing up as good of a chance to rebuild the team via the draft as they'll likely get just seems like a forgone conclusion at this point.

[gstelmack]

Carolina can play that way too, although not quite down to the Eagles level (mostly Delhomme starts throwing picks for no good reason). That's what has me scared about the Cards. Fortunately they had a bad game the last time they played and still pulled it out.

Sigh. 5 picks, really Jake?

[ColtCrazy]

I felt bad for Delhomme. He's done a great job coming back from surgery last year.

That said, with my Colts out...I'm loving this Cardinal team. Fitzgerald is fun to watch and it's great to see Warner perform well again. I'd also like to see Edgerrin James get a ring since he missed out on Indy's. So I have to root for the Eagles today, give the Cards the best chance I think.

In the AFC, I no longer care. Don't like either team playing today...I might have to (gulp) cheer for the Ravens. I hope they don't take my Colts season tickets away because of that. :D

[Thomkal]

Look at the remaining QBs in the playoffs.

Warner, Eli, McNabb, Ben, Flacco, Rivers. Isn't Warner probably the default pick for least likely to implode? Eli is probably the next candidate, but if you are the Cards in the Super Bowl and you are looking at Ben, Flacco, or Rivers, you got to like your chances.

Side note, the Lions went 0-16. Their former GM and coach already have found jobs while they are without a coach. Now Arizona is one win away from leaving Detroit behind in the worst franchise ever debate. Screwing up as good of a chance to rebuild the team via the draft as they'll likely get just seems like a forgone conclusion at this point.

Warner has had some Delhomme-like games this season-he was just horrible against the Jets and had a couple other games like that. If he goes to NY next week its in the same stadium with awful weather it looks like. I like him much better in Arizona against the Eagles, but he wasn't very good in their earlier game on T-giving when the Eagles put 48 points on them.

[gstelmack]

Jake's developing a lot like Favre: when the game is on the line late, he'll do whatever it takes to drive down and get the score. And he throws a BEAUTIFUL deep ball when he can set himself. He is a fierce competitor, but the problem is he is TOO fierce. He just would not throw the ball away or take the sack last night (if he knew the sack was coming). He threw several balls up for grabs just to get out from under the pressure. If he'd stop doing that, he'd stop throwing away a game or two each year.

[Radii]

Jake's developing a lot like Favre: when the game is on the line late, he'll do whatever it takes to drive down and get the score. And he throws a BEAUTIFUL deep ball when he can set himself. He is a fierce competitor, but the problem is he is TOO fierce. He just would not throw the ball away or take the sack last night (if he knew the sack was coming). He threw several balls up for grabs just to get out from under the pressure. If he'd stop doing that, he'd stop throwing away a game or two each year.

Yes, I mentioned in an above post that I've long argued that Delhomme and Fox are a bad combination, and this is pretty much what I mean. Carolina's success is based on having a solid defense and rushing attack. A high risk passing attack just doesn't fit the system, and Delhomme is nothing if not high risk. Its not that I think Delhomme is a bad QB, I've never thought that. But he just doesn't seem like the right QB for a John Fox led team.

[Lathum]

LETS GO GIANTS!!!!!!

[Lathum]

good start

[Scoobz0202]

Great start for the Giants..