NFL WEEK 2

[SirFozzie]

Two bits of Jets news entering their week 2 showdown with the Pats:

Jets get fined 75K, and former coach Eric Mangini and GM Mike Tannenbaum were fined 25K each for not properly putting a cover sheet on their TPS report.. er.. I mean not putting Brett Favre on the injury report for multiple weeks last year.

Secondly, it really seems like the Jets are amping up the importance of their game against the Pats. New head coach Rex Ryan recorded the following voicemail to be sent out to all season ticket holders:

"Hey, this is Rex Ryan, Head Coach of the New York Jets. I just want to let you know how much we need you this week.

You know, I’ve already admitted that the Patriots have a better head coach and they got a better quarterback than us, but we got to see who’s got a better team. And the other part, the reason I’m so confident is that they’ve got to face you and the got to face the rest of our fans.

And my challenge to you is that we need you at your best, so let’s come get ready to go for four quarters and get after them, especially when our defense is out there we really need you. We want it to be miserable for Brady & company and seem like there’s 13 or 14 guys out there on defense. It’s tough enough when we have 11 but when our fans are into it it’s almost impossible to do anything against us.

So, that’s my challenge to you. Again, I admit that I’m not as good as Belichick, but at the end of the game, I want to be 1-0 against him. So, help me out if you don’t mind, so that’s my challenge. OK? Thank you. Bye.

I think it's a reminder to be uber-amped against the one team that everyone else thinks will win the division.. but.. I'm not sure that putting so much importance on a week two game is wise. If the Pats come out and lay a whupping on NYJ, what does that do to the Jets psyche the rest of the way?

In other news.. it's been reported that the Minnesota Vikings have built a new practice facility to contain Brett Farve's ego after he throws for 200+ yards against the Lions, and all the newspaper reports that "BRETT FARVE STILL HAS IT!"

[Logan]

Still don't understand why the Jets were fined. From PFT:

The league previously overlooked the reality that the Jets had fudged the injury report because, we believe, plenty of teams have not disclosed injuries to players who have played through them. Last year, the Dolphins barely disclosed any injuries throughout the course of the entire season. Also, Pats running back Laurence Maroney played with a broken shoulder -- but didn't appear on the injury report. And Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger admitted after Super Bowl XLIII that he played with a broken rib, even though he was not listed on the injury report in the days preceding the game.

As the NFL previously has explained it, the injury report focuses on availability, not effectiveness. So since Favre practiced and played with the condition, the Jets handled the situation no differently than any other team that has failed to disclose an injury to a player who continued to practice and play.

[Qwikshot]

Hats off to Vince Young

Dad for a day: Vince Young surprises Steve McNair's sons - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=4480272)

Young surprises McNair's sonsComment Email Print Share ESPN.com news services

For one day at least, Vince Young stepped up to try to fill the void for the late Steve McNair's two young sons, the Tennessean reported Thursday.

Young surprised 11-year-old Trenton and 5-year-old Tyler on Wednesday by showing up at their house and taking them to their school's "Dear Dads Breakfast" at a local restaurant.


“
Those are my boys. I wouldn't say it was to pay anyone back; it was just out of love. Steve would do it for me. He pretty much did it for me when I was growing up. I have a history with the boys and I want to do anything I can. I am their big brother.

”
-- Vince Young

"Those are my boys," Young told the Tennessean. "I wouldn't say it was to pay anyone back; it was just out of love. Steve would do it for me. He pretty much did it for me when I was growing up. I have a history with the boys and I want to do anything I can. I am their big brother."

Julie Dilworth, admissions director at St. Paul Christian Academy, lauded Young's actions.

"It was a great, great gesture," Dilworth told the Tennessean. "All the kids had been talking about the dads' breakfast and [Trenton and Tyler] were wondering what was going to happen with them.

"They were thrilled ... the boys came to school with huge smiles on their faces."

Young had a close relationship with Steve McNair, even before the latter was drafted by the Titans four years ago. He attended McNair's football camps when he was young. McNair was shot and killed July 4.

Besides being there for McNair's sons, Young gave other kids at the school jerseys and autographs.

"It was a surprise, and just to see the excitement on their faces, it's a great feeling," Young told the Tennessean. "We had a good time eating pancakes. I had an omelet.

"Overall they are doing cool, doing good. Just talking to their mom, I think they are going to be all right. I am always going to be here for them, always."

McNair also had two older teenage sons.

[DaddyTorgo]

Way to go VY. Class act. Honestly - the guy has his demons, but I give him credit for stepping up to deal with them and even moreso, dealing with them in the public eye. And he still manages to do stuff like this...what a guy.

[RendeR]

Ok yeah, even I can't be cynical about this.

GJ Vince.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Raiders/Chiefs in the home opener. Both teams may not be very good, but the blood still boils when this rivalry hits town. Let the finger-biting and eye-gouging begin.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Raiders/Chiefs in the home opener. Both teams may not be very good, but the blood still boils when this rivalry hits town. Let the finger-biting and eye-gouging begin.
And that's just from the fans!

[JAG]

Secondly, it really seems like the Jets are amping up the importance of their game against the Pats. New head coach Rex Ryan recorded the following voicemail to be sent out to all season ticket holders:

"Hey, this is Rex Ryan, Head Coach of the New York Jets. I just want to let you know how much we need you this week.

You know, I’ve already admitted that the Patriots have a better head coach and they got a better quarterback than us, but we got to see who’s got a better team. And the other part, the reason I’m so confident is that they’ve got to face you and the got to face the rest of our fans.

And my challenge to you is that we need you at your best, so let’s come get ready to go for four quarters and get after them, especially when our defense is out there we really need you. We want it to be miserable for Brady & company and seem like there’s 13 or 14 guys out there on defense. It’s tough enough when we have 11 but when our fans are into it it’s almost impossible to do anything against us.

So, that’s my challenge to you. Again, I admit that I’m not as good as Belichick, but at the end of the game, I want to be 1-0 against him. So, help me out if you don’t mind, so that’s my challenge. OK? Thank you. Bye.

I think it's a reminder to be uber-amped against the one team that everyone else thinks will win the division.. but.. I'm not sure that putting so much importance on a week two game is wise. If the Pats come out and lay a whupping on NYJ, what does that do to the Jets psyche the rest of the way?

I couldn't stand Buddy Ryan back in the day, and I wouldn't want everyone to act like this, but I think the NFL is better for having colorful characters like Rex Ryan around. Strategy-wise I agree that having your Super Bowl for a Week 2 game is pretty silly though, unless he plans on asking the fans to come to every game this season.

[Galaril]

Way to go VY. Class act. Honestly - the guy has his demons, but I give him credit for stepping up to deal with them and even moreso, dealing with them in the public eye. And he still manages to do stuff like this...what a guy.

Maybe something good will come from McNair's poor choices towards the end of his life and VY will finally trun around and do something with the talent he has.

[ColtCrazy]

Hank Baskett looks to be signing with the Colts. Not really an exciting move, unless you consider the chance of seeing his wife at some games now.

[miami_fan]

Still don't understand why the Jets were fined. From PFT:

Most teams don't have Brett Favre stating that the executives of the team knowingly and purposefully broke the rules. As long as it happened behind closed doors, it was all good.

On a sidenote, I wonder what the difference in the betting lines might have been if the injury had been disclosed.

[larrymcg421]

Why are the Colts even worried about signing WR's? It seems like they could just go to a 1 WR offense and defenses still couldn't cover Wayne.

[jeff061]

Rex Ryan better hope he never has a losing season. Attitude like that won't be so adored if they miss the playoffs, I don't think.

[mauchow]

Fuck this. I just looked at the distribution maps for the games. The Vikings don't play in one spot in the midwest... Green Bay/Fox Valley area. Screw you, Fox.

Just because the Packers play at the same time doesn't mean you can't have another game. Time to enjoy the game at the bar.... woohoo?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Fuck this. I just looked at the distribution maps for the games. The Vikings don't play in one spot in the midwest... Green Bay/Fox Valley area. Screw you, Fox.

Just because the Packers play at the same time doesn't mean you can't have another game. Time to enjoy the game at the bar.... woohoo?

It is you who will be screwed! You wont be enjoying anything at the bar. The streak ends on Sunday!*








*I don't really believe this.

[SirFozzie]

No Welker today? Hoo boy.. this is going to be difficult.

[DaddyTorgo]

*scared*

[Lathum]

I think the Pats roll here.

The Jets were stupid poking a sleeping bear in the eye.

[DaddyTorgo]

i hope you're right Lathum.

I think we need to see lots of hot "BRADY TO MOSS" action to get the win.

[SirFozzie]

I like this no-huddle.. and the blocking is good today..

[DaddyTorgo]

so far

[Lathum]

apparently no one can catch the ball for the Packers early on

[bhlloy]

if Brees plays 16 games he's going to destroy some records this year. He's as close to perfect on his throws as I've ever seen (and he doesn't even have great receivers, he just puts the ball on the money every single time)

[Masked]

Brees goes 5/5 for 53 yards and a 15 yard TD pass to Colston on the opening drive.

[DaddyTorgo]

beautiful start for the Pats defense - mike wright hit sanchez right as he was going to go, forced a fumble and the ball bounced back 17 yds before faneca fell on it inside the 5.

now 3rd an 26 for the jets

[DaddyTorgo]

if Brees plays 16 games he's going to destroy some records this year. He's as close to perfect on his throws as I've ever seen (and he doesn't even have great receivers, he just puts the ball on the money every single time)

makes San Diego look dumb for trading him and not Rivers...

[SirFozzie]

That's one thing not enough people brought up during the week. Belichick loves to face rookie QB's.. Sanchez will have to make smart reads.

[JS19]

3rd and 28 for the Jets, good start.

[DaddyTorgo]

great field position for the Pats here on the 50...time to punch it in!

[Greyroofoo]

Hank Baskett looks to be signing with the Colts. Not really an exciting move, unless you consider the chance of seeing his wife at some games now.

pics plz thanks

[bhlloy]

makes San Diego look dumb for trading him and not Rivers...

well it's not like Rivers is chopped liver. but I agree, we would have a Super Bowl now with Brees back there. Fucking AJ Smith, a team with LT in his prime and Brees at QB a couple of years ago when the defense was above average would have been unreal. :banghead:

[spleen1015]

Lions/Vikings and Texans/Titans here today.

/puke

[spleen1015]

So, the Eagles answered the Saints?

[DaddyTorgo]

pics plz thanks

really??

lemme see if i can find a SFW pic of the playboy playmate...

hxxp://inyobusiness.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/kendra-wilkinson.jpg
hxxp://www.babble.com/CS/blogs/famecrawler/2009/02/kendra-wilkinson.jpg

[SirFozzie]

Find some NSFW pics..

then put them in a PM and send it to me! :)

[DaddyTorgo]

PATSIES FORCE A FUMBLE AND RECOVER!!!!! INSIDE JETS 15!!!!

[DaddyTorgo]

that may be overturned though

[SirFozzie]

I don't think there's indisputable evidence to overturn.

[DaddyTorgo]

Find some NSFW pics..

then put them in a PM and send it to me! :)

Kendra Wilkinson
(http://lmgtfy.com/?q=kendra+wilkinson)

[DaddyTorgo]

since it was ruled a fumble though it could be real tough to see the evidence to overturn

YES!!!

[henry296]

On Countdown they reported the Saints were expecting the Eagles to go for broke early on a long pass to Jackson. They were right and still couldn't stop it.

[SirFozzie]

*makes note to KEEL DT later.. it'd be rude to KEEL a fellow Pats fan during the game*

and told ya so on the review.. either wayit wasn't going to be overturned, cuz of the camera angles

[DaddyTorgo]

can we punch this shit in now patsies?

[DaddyTorgo]

ugh - stupid holding call

[spleen1015]

Not impressed by Kendra.

[SirFozzie]

Blah.

[DaddyTorgo]

ugh - jets defense (and pats o-line penalties to be fair) are holding the patsies well - but at least sanchez hasn't shown an ability to do anything yet...(famous last words?)

[Radii]

delhomme has two possessions in a row without turning the ball over, but he looked real nervous backed up inside his own 10 on this second drive, hopping up and down in the end zone as he looked for a receiver, overthrowing a covered steve smith both times, pretty ugly.

[SirFozzie]

Blame that missed pass on TB.. Galloway had gotten semi-open

[DaddyTorgo]

gj patsies defense...force a 3-and-out

[DaddyTorgo]

i'm luving fred taylor here today!

[DaddyTorgo]

fuck tom

[henry296]

I'm loving Chris Johnson today. Already has 23 fantasy points.

[SirFozzie]

At least Moss didn't give up on the play, that extra effort pushed the Jets back 15 yards or so

[DaddyTorgo]

good 3-and-out by the defense again

[Eaglesfan27]

The Eagles are breaking out all kinds of trick plays today.

[Radii]

Carolina with an ugly looking flea flicker attempt... the RB tosses it back to Delhomme with two defenders in the backfield, they chase delhomme backwards 5-10 yards and as he's going down Delhomme tries to flip the ball underhand in the general direction of a receiver... it bounces off a D-lineman's chest instead.

Falcons block Carolina's punt and Matt Ryan just hit Tony Gonzalez for a TD.

[Logan]

I'm with Dierdorf, that looked much worse live from the TV/press box angle. I thought it was a penalty at first too.

[SirFozzie]

If you squint, the new receiver even kinda looks like Wes Welker ;)

[SirFozzie]

TB is not on today.

[Radii]

After a nice pass to Steve Smith and a solid 25 yard run by Jonathan Steward, DeAngelo Williams scores from 3 yards out, 10-7 Carolina

[DaddyTorgo]

TB is not on today.

i think he's missing wes "binkie" welker

[spleen1015]

After 1.25 weeks, I like the NFL network's new Red Zone Channel.

[SackAttack]

Terrible call on the Palmer sneak. He wasn't across the line, and he was losing the ball as he tried to GET across. How is that a touchdown?

[Eaglesfan27]

Kevin Kolb is finally looking like a real NFL QB. He's hanging in the pocket, taking some hits, and making some nice throws.

[spleen1015]

Kevin Kolb is finally looking like a real NFL QB. He's hanging in the pocket, taking some hits, and making some nice throws.

I hope it stays a close game so that Brees throws all day. :)

[hoopsguy]

Pick 6 for Packers, throw from Palmer either was a bad route by WR or the worst looking throw you will ever see.

[DaddyTorgo]

LOVING JULIAN EDELMAN RIGHT NOW!!

busted a tackle, ran it down for extra yardage and got out of bounds

[Galaril]

After 1.25 weeks, I like the NFL network's new Red Zone Channel.

Is this a separate channel from NFL netwrok I only see the audio show they had last season nothing new there/ I have direct tv so maybe they are blocking it.

[DaddyTorgo]

ugh...ANOTHER FUCKING FG!!!!

[hoopsguy]

Bengals pick up 3rd and 30-something on screen pass, then hit a flea-flicker for 30 more and 15 additional for roughing passer. Down to Packers 5.

This has been a much more enjoyable game than I had anticipated.

[Logan]

"Look alive, you shithead!"

[henry296]

Is this a separate channel from NFL netwrok I only see the audio show they had last season nothing new there/ I have direct tv so maybe they are blocking it.

Yes,it is separate from NFL network and was made available to cable when DirecTV extended Sunday Ticket. DirecTV has their own version but it is only for Sunday Ticket SuperFan subscribers.

[spleen1015]

Is this a separate channel from NFL netwrok I only see the audio show they had last season nothing new there/ I have direct tv so maybe they are blocking it.

This is new for cable I believe.

It is cool because it bounces around all over the place and you get to see lots of different shit. It is really good for fantasy football, IMO.

Plus, you get to hear all of Gus Johnson's calls. :D

[King of New York]

Redskins losing to the Rams at halftime. The Rams look as bad as usual, but the Redskins seem to be trying to find a way to lose.

That, and my fantasy football opponent's starting both Chris and Andre Johnson, will make for a bad Sunday.

[Radii]

Matt Ryan has 3 first half TD's, Carolina's pass defense is just awful. Tony Gonzalez is really fun to watch on a good team though, good for him after a career stuck in KC.

[spleen1015]

Redskins fans know they will lose to the Rams today. That's the way the world works.

[spleen1015]

J-E-T-S

JETS! JETS! JETS!!!

[JonInMiddleGA]

Lions over Vikings 10-7 in Q3?
Smith with more rushing yards than Petersen?
WTF?

[Thomkal]

the rumors of my Cardinals demise was largely premature...Warner with a near perfect half throwing the ball.

[Karlifornia]

Oof...For some reason, I never realized until today just how awful Jamarcus Russell is.

[DaddyTorgo]

*sighs* Pats needed to convert on their first half chances...somebody woke Mark Sanchez up at halftime

[King of New York]

Redskins stall inside the St Louis 10-yard-line for the third time today.

Portis runs straight into the line twice, and then on 3rd down Santana Moss (!) throws over Chris Cooley's head.

Still, 3 FG could be enough to beat the Rams.

[MrBug708]

Mark Sanchez is a very good NFL QB so far

[Eaglesfan27]

Mark Sanchez is a very good NFL QB so far

Yep. Pete and his staff did a good job developing him.

[Eaglesfan27]

Meanwhile, Kolb throws a pick. Eagles are in deep trouble now.

[hoopsguy]

Yep. Pete and his staff did a good job developing him.

And if Pete had not been such a douche last spring then maybe this point could be made without eliciting rolled eyes.

But kudos to the USC staff, I suppose.

[whomario]

brees is amazing :)

[Karlifornia]

And if Pete had not been such a douche last spring then maybe this point could be made without eliciting rolled eyes.

But kudos to the USC staff, I suppose.

I'd probably sound like a Stepford Wife, too, if my team had that kind of run of success

[cartman]

Chris Johnson is good. 9 carries (not receptions) for 179 yards so far today.

[Eaglesfan27]

brees is amazing :)

Yes, he is. He just threw a beautiful long ball under pressure. He's been great all day against a good secondary. I'm with bhlloy. If he starts every game, I think records will fall for him this year.

[Northwood_DK]

Oof...For some reason, I never realized until today just how awful Jamarcus Russell is.

Not sure what you are talking about. 3 for 15 late in the 3rd quarter is not good?

[spleen1015]

These QBs who never get any hype until late in their senior seasons never turn out to be good NFL QBs.

[hoopsguy]

Hochuli call: "Offsides, the whole offensive line."

[Karlifornia]

Not sure what you are talking about. 3 for 15 late in the 3rd quarter is not good?

I'm trying to think of when being successful 3 times out of 15 tries would be a good ratio. So far I've come up with playing the lottery and asking out women (hey, we can't all be Playboys here)

[Lathum]

lol

False start, the whole offensive line.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Having the only game on TV be Raiders-Chiefs is some cruel form of torture. JaMarcus Russel is freaking terrible, and the Chiefs have made some absolutely ridiculous decisions. 1st down inside the 15 with 12 seconds left in the half, no timeouts in a tie game, and you throw it short of the endzone over the middle? Wow.

[NewIdentity]

Another FG by the Jets. They are going to lose this game because they are playing not to lose with the Patriots. I would like to see them open it up a little bit and take some shots down the field.

[Lathum]

Yep. Pete and his staff did a good job developing him.

Yesterdays game makes you understand why Carroll didn't want Sanchez to go pro.

( not trying to rub salt in wounds, I am being serious)

[Karlifornia]

Walmart still advertises, eh? For most of these podunk places, the only thing their ads need to be is: "Wal-Mart: Where The Fuck Else Ya Gonna Go?"

[NewIdentity]

These QBs who never get any hype until late in their senior seasons never turn out to be good NFL QBs.
This is idiotic. I can give you a mile long list of great college QBs that never did jack in the NFL; yet had great college careers.

[Karlifornia]

Having the only game on TV be Raiders-Chiefs is some cruel form of torture. JaMarcus Russel is freaking terrible, and the Chiefs have made some absolutely ridiculous decisions. 1st down inside the 15 with 12 seconds left in the half, no timeouts in a tie game, and you throw it short of the endzone over the middle? Wow.

My prediction for this next raiders possession: 2 runs for 5 yards and an incomplete pass

[MikeVic]

Does anyone else hate the change NFL.com made to the Game Center? I think it used to only show the current drive? I don't know what it is, but I don't like the way they currently have it. Also, there's serious lag time with the "Highlight" popups.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Somehow, watching JaMarcus in person makes him look worse than his stat line. And his line is 3/17 for 42 yards.

[DaddyTorgo]

horrible playcall there...wtf patriots

[Alan T]

Nice tackle by Larry Izzo for the Patriots...

Wait he isn't on the Patriots?

[spleen1015]

This is idiotic. I can give you a mile long list of great college QBs that never did jack in the NFL; yet had great college careers.

I guess I don't get your point.

JeMarcus Russell was never mentioned as a first round draft choice until late in his college career. Ryan Leaf, Vince Young, Akili Smith are the same.... none of them turn out to be decent NFL QBs.

I know there are a ton of good college QBs that don't have good NFL careers.

[NewIdentity]

What is with all the delay of game penalties on the Patriots today?

[King of New York]

Redskins stopped inside the Rams' 10-yard line for a fourth time, only no FG this time. Still, the Rams are in trouble--ball on their 5, no timeouts, 4th and 10.

[Vince, Pt. II]

The Texans have been the trendy pick for what, three seasons now? They just can't seem to put it all together.

[Karlifornia]

I guess I don't get your point.

JeMarcus Russell was never mentioned as a first round draft choice until late in his college career. Ryan Leaf, Vince Young, Akili Smith are the same.... none of them turn out to be decent NFL QBs.

I know there are a ton of good college QBs that don't have good NFL careers.

Trying to find a rule when it comes to drafting is....difficult.

[NewIdentity]

5 minutes to go. What do you want to bet Brady goes 80yds?

[cartman]

That was a rule I didn't know. The Texans punt returner called for a fair catch and muffed the catch. The Titans guy got the ball, but since he caught it before the ball hit the ground, it wasn't a fumble and recovery, it stayed the Texans ball and the Titans guy got a 15 yard penalty for catch interference.

[Eaglesfan27]

5 minutes to go. What do you want to bet Brady goes 80yds?

The board is going really slow for me (I hit reply when this drive started and it is now 3rd and 10) but I would have taken the bet that he doesn't. The Jets have done a great job defensively and there is no reason to think their defense is going to let down now.

[Northwood_DK]

My prediction for this next raiders possession: 2 runs for 5 yards and an incomplete pass

Or maybe the 3rd drop of the day for the very fast Heyward-Bey

[Galaril]

The Texans have been the trendy pick for what, three seasons now? They just can't seem to put it all together.

They are scaring the shit out of us today. I am surprised at how crappy the Titans D is playing today and also how well the offense is going.

[Karlifornia]

THE RAIDERS HAVE JUST COMPLETED A PASS!!

I DON'T BELIEVE WHAT I JUST SAW!!

[DaddyTorgo]

Pats played like ass today. Jets D played well. Their offense was nothing special at all, but their defense did the job it needed to do and the Pats sucked on both sides of the ball.

[NewIdentity]

JeMarcus Russell was never mentioned as a first round draft choice until late in his college career.
What in the hell are you talking about? Russell came out as a Junior. Nobody was talking about his as a Freshman, but his sophmore season he went 10-1 in the SEC and he followed that up with a 10-2 Junior season. Should have been contending for the Heisman his senior season. He did win the Manning Award in 2006 as a Junior.

But, your right, nobody was talking about him his senior year in High School or his freshman year in college.:D

[Big Fo]

AFC East could be open again this year, the Pats looked poor again. I'm starting to worry about the Jets though.

[mauchow]

Oh, jeez. Packers recover onside kick........Bengals going to be Bungals again?

[JetsIn06]

So happy.

[NewIdentity]

Why is 0-2 so bad? LAst year 3 teams who started 0-2 last year made the playoffs.

So, I don't get why all these broadcasters are running around calling every game a must win. Right now for me it is the Steeler game and they are acting like the world is going to come to an end of the Bears lose and go to 0-2.

[mauchow]

All the way down to the 10 yard line for the Packers where it looks like a false start might end the game.... lol

[Cringer]

Packers offensive line is horrible looking so far. They are officially crap to me until they prove otherwise. Odom with 20 sacks or so today, and with Clifton going out at LT you can question the decision to not have an active backup at tackle.

Defense was bad except Woodson. Rodgers looked worse the more hits he took.

In the end the Bengals still gave them a chance. Just not enough time to erase all the craptacularness.

[Bitter Jets Fan]

Nice start for the Jets!!!

[gstelmack]

*sighs* Pats needed to convert on their first half chances...somebody woke Mark Sanchez up at halftime

It was you with your jinx earlier :mad:

Anyway, the hole in the Patriots offense this season that the Bills exploited early last week and the Jets exploited all day today is that Brady is NOT accurate under pressure right now. He's missing a lot of throws. The receivers need to get over their dropsies as well, but Brady is missing a lot of open guys right now if he feels much pressure at all.

Give Ryan credit for continuing to pressure and avoid the "prevent" down the stretch there. And Sanchez definitely made some key throws.

[Karlifornia]

GORE BABY! AND HE'S ON MY FANTASY TEAM!

[NewIdentity]

3 and out for the Bears, and then the Steelers go 92 yards in 8 minutes for the TD.

Cutler is going to implode today.

[Tigercat]

This year's Saints offense will be one of the NFL's best ever if Bell or Thomas can stay healthy. If not, it will just be one of the best this year. Regardless, scoring at will at Philly is a great accomplishment.

[SackAttack]

How the hell many false starts did the Packers get nailed with today? I'm not sure if Odom had more sacks than the Packers had false starts, but it's got to be close.

[ISiddiqui]

Give Ryan credit for continuing to pressure and avoid the "prevent" down the stretch there. And Sanchez definitely made some key throws.

Rex Ryan is a coach who gets it. If you are shutting down a team because of constant pressure, you don't ease up at the end.

[JPhillips]

So Packer fans, who was Odom up against? Five sacks for a guy that only had 3.5 last year? I know he's in far better shape this year, but do you have a real stiff on your OL?

[Radii]

norv turner just sent out the FG team on 3rd and goal from the 5 with 10 seconds left in the half... that has to be the weakest decision i've ever seen in a football game.

[flounder]

That was a rule I didn't know. The Texans punt returner called for a fair catch and muffed the catch. The Titans guy got the ball, but since he caught it before the ball hit the ground, it wasn't a fumble and recovery, it stayed the Texans ball and the Titans guy got a 15 yard penalty for catch interference.

You'd have known if you had read this thread (http://www.operationsports.com/fofc/showpost.php?p=2121619&postcount=201). (I didn't know either).

[RendeR]

This thread fails today. 3 pages? wake up you SLACKERS!

Haven't watched the Bengals/Packers game yet, saw the results but I want to see everything anyway =)

[Tigercat]

I guess I don't get your point.

JeMarcus Russell was never mentioned as a first round draft choice until late in his college career. Ryan Leaf, Vince Young, Akili Smith are the same.... none of them turn out to be decent NFL QBs.

I know there are a ton of good college QBs that don't have good NFL careers.

False. Many who truly know about college football talked about him having first pick talent for years. LSU didn't get pub in 2005 because the team was overshadowed by Saban's departure the year before and Katrina. Jamarcus was solid that year (his sophomore year.) Jamarcus took the next step and had the best year passing in college football in 2006. (With Quinn right there as well.)

Russell was a huge (heh) talent making a good amount of plays in 2005, just because some aspects of the national media didn't pay attention to him then, doesn't mean anything. Those lazy journalists that make up much of national sports writers started paying attention only when LSU won a BCS game under Russell in 2006.

[Vince, Pt. II]

What a game by the Niners. Good to see them show up today and put in a well-rounded performance. Clements was just everywhere today!

[Bad-example]

49ers were strong today. Gore was a beast and Clements was superb.

[Travis]

Nice win for the Niners. Really wish the Seahawks would get a new training staff though, down 6+ opening day starters now :( Was kind of hoping that this year would go a bit smoother after the injuries last year, not looking so promising right now.

[Atocep]

Man, that Cutler guy imploded. What a terrible quarterback.

[yacovfb]

Chargers go the whole game relying on Rivers and with the game on the line (4th and 2) they run the ball up the gut with Sproles and he gets stuffed. Game over. I didn't think Norv could top the decision to kick the FG on 3rd down but he somehow managed to with this playcall. Quite a shame :(

[mauchow]

Vikes-9ers next week. Should be a good one. Glad its at the dome.

[Coffee Warlord]

3 and out for the Bears, and then the Steelers go 92 yards in 8 minutes for the TD.

Cutler is going to implode today.

Noonan.

[RainRaven]

Chargers go the whole game relying on Rivers and with the game on the line (4th and 2) they run the ball up the gut with Sproles and he gets stuffed. Game over. I didn't think Norv could top the decision to kick the FG on 3rd down but he somehow managed to with this playcall. Quite a shame :(

I absolutely agree. I was on the edge of my seat hoping the Ravens would stop the Chargers. I figured on 4th down they would throw to Chambers or Vincent since the secondary had been picked on all day long. I loved the moves Norv made because they made no sense. The Chargers will never win the big games with him as head coach.

[Eaglesfan27]

Gag at the Cowboys' Stadium being compared to the Wonders of the World.

[DaddyTorgo]

Gag at the Cowboys' Stadium being compared to the Wonders of the World.

seriously. if anything it's a monument to american-excess

[JS19]

Gag at the Cowboys' Stadium being compared to the Wonders of the World.

Seriously, that was pathetic.

[JS19]

well, that was about the shittiest broadcast of a national anthem

[BishopMVP]

Portis runs straight into the line twice, and then on 3rd down Santana Moss (!) throws over Chris Cooley's head.For the life of me I can't figure out why teams run these WR passes inside the red zone. It's one thing at midfield where a blown coverage will get you a long TD, but the poor accuracy kills you once you're inside the 10 and dealing with a compressed field.
These QBs who never get any hype until late in their senior seasons never turn out to be good NFL QBs.Matt Ryan? Joe Flacco?

[gstelmack]

Gag at the Cowboys' Stadium being compared to the Wonders of the World.

Since it's a slow posting day, one side of the scoreboard discussion I hadn't seen talked about was an article I saw on either SI or ESPN (can't remember which) with the guys that updated the stadium rules a couple of years ago. They were getting aged, and with all the stadium construction going on they reviewed them all. Up until like 2005 there had to be 120' of clearance. They thought that was old and so changed it to 85'. Without any evidence really. And they could not point to why they did it, just that it seemed restrictive.

[Lathum]

Gag at the Cowboys' Stadium being compared to the Wonders of the World.

I was on the phone with Saldana and when they did that we were both LOLing.

Good start, points on the board.

[Lathum]

Giants INT return for a TD and all Jerry Jones can do is pick his nose

[JS19]

Giants INT return for a TD and all Jerry Jones can do is pick his nose

Probably why they didn't pan to him after the fumble recovery.

[DaddyTorgo]

Giants INT return for a TD and all Jerry Jones can do is pick his nose

dude...sometimes you got something up there you just gotta get out...and nothing feels quite as good as a successful fishing trip...

[JS19]

seriously though, giants need to get this in for 6. they need to find someone who can take over the redzone.

[Lathum]

seriously though, giants need to get this in for 6. they need to find someone who can take over the redzone.

Couldn't agree more. My mother who is visiting me and knows nothing about football just asked why they didn't throw the ball into the endzone.

[JS19]

haha. And by I mean someone who can take over the redzone, I mean someone other than Tynes. I think their best bet is Boss, unless Hixon can step up and prove to be a physical WR.

[Lathum]

I would like to see thm put Barton in and throw a fade

as my Mom yells "get the guy with the hair!"

[JS19]

If they keep up this piss poor redzone offense, I don't think they will have any other choice, especially after doing nothing but rave about him all pre-season.

[Vince, Pt. II]

What's the deal with Jacobs? It seems like a bunch of RBs who were "supposed" to be good this year are really stumbling out of the gate - Forte, Slaton and Jacobs just off the top of my head, but I'm sure there's more than that.

[JS19]

Just needs to get it going, as far as I'm concerned. Opponents are able to pay so much more attention to the running game now, without Burress and all. Once the Giants establish their passing game, I think he'll be on track.

[Lathum]

What's the deal with Jacobs? It seems like a bunch of RBs who were "supposed" to be good this year are really stumbling out of the gate - Forte, Slaton and Jacobs just off the top of my head, but I'm sure there's more than that.

I think 5 quarters into the season is a little early for a decleration like that.

Jacobs faced the Redskins and Haynsworth last wek which didn't help.

Jacobs will be fine.

[dervack]

What's the deal with Jacobs? It seems like a bunch of RBs who were "supposed" to be good this year are really stumbling out of the gate - Forte, Slaton and Jacobs just off the top of my head, but I'm sure there's more than that.
Well Slaton put on a good amount of weight and scouts say he looks slow.

[Lathum]

What a dirty, scumbag play by Adams

[King of New York]

Should be a red card for Adams!

[JS19]

THANK GOD!!! didn't think he was getting up. Giants line is getting no pressure here.

[Bad-example]

well, that was about the shittiest broadcast of a national anthem

Dear Obama,

Please consider tax breaks for sporting events that ban vocals for our beloved National Anthem. I can't promise this will stimulate the economy, but the quality of life for many of us will rise. Votes in the bank, buddy.

Signed,
Those of us that can't stomach hearing that song butchered yet again

[JS19]

That's a pick 6, no doubt.

[King of New York]

That was one strange interception

[Eaglesfan27]

Awesome interception and it clearly didn't hit the ground.

[Lathum]

Gonna be overturned!!!

[Lathum]

fucking ref

[JS19]

10-1 they kick a FG

[JS19]

wow, goes from almost totally fucking it up, to a greta catch

[Lathum]

NEVER HIT THE GROUND!!!

[King of New York]

I'm glad the Giants scored that TD, since the ref robbed them of a TD on that interception.

[Lathum]

I am obviously happy, but the Giants should be winning this game by a lot more

[DaddyTorgo]

I am obviously happy, but the Giants should be winning this game by a lot more

hopefully what happened to the Pats doesn't happen to them...

[Cringer]

So Packer fans, who was Odom up against? Five sacks for a guy that only had 3.5 last year? I know he's in far better shape this year, but do you have a real stiff on your OL?

Chad Cllifton is the long time left tackle, he gave up at least one sack today, maybe two. Clifton then got hurt and the Packers, in a brilliant move had no active backup at tackle. So LG Darren Colledge moved to left tackle, the center moved to left guard, and the backup center came in to play center. It seemed to work really well. Even the Packers think so....

“Our pass protection is a negative right now,” McCarthy said.:lol:

[Lathum]

Giants playcalling in the red zone is dreadful. Can they throw it in the endzone once please

[Lathum]

fuck

[JS19]

BOSS BOSS BOSS!!!! why do they refuse to throw him the ball??

[kingfc22]

The crowd at the stick was the best I have seen in a long time. We actually had real football fans show up today.

Gore was a BEAST and the defense is looking good. Now to see what they can do against the Vikes on the road.

[CU Tiger]

False. Many who truly know about college football talked about him having first pick talent for years. LSU didn't get pub in 2005 because the team was overshadowed by Saban's departure the year before and Katrina. Jamarcus was solid that year (his sophomore year.) Jamarcus took the next step and had the best year passing in college football in 2006. (With Quinn right there as well.)

Russell was a huge (heh) talent making a good amount of plays in 2005, just because some aspects of the national media didn't pay attention to him then, doesn't mean anything. Those lazy journalists that make up much of national sports writers started paying attention only when LSU won a BCS game under Russell in 2006.

I am not sure you are debating the point. No one is debating that he was a college talent(though I think you may be over blowing his college stature), just that he was never seen as an NFL talent.

I think the smart money said he couldnt play at the next level, even in that draft...and Id say it is proving true.

[Tigercat]

You keep using that word "talent," I don't think it means what you think it means. Jamarcus showed NFL talent the moment he stepped onto the college field. As a junior he showed top of the line college skill as well. Now maybe upon reflection you would say the smart money was on him not having or developing an NFL skillset.

Jamarcus's only MAJOR flaw in college is the same as the NFL, he hasn't yet developed the instincts to have accuracy beyond throwing the ball to points on the field. He can't consistently hit WRs in stride, and occationally struggles against moving coverage. So if you would have bet Jamarcus, even with his natural arm strength and arm accuracy from that arm strength, wouldn't develop that instinct by now, more power to you.

But the bottom line is, Jamarcus showed as few(or as many) flaws in his college game as the average top 5 QB, with more upside than most.

[Lathum]

What a move by Smith

[JS19]

I've always liked Smith and thought he would be a very productive receiver, but Manningham is the one who's opening my eyes quite a bit, and I know it's early, but I like what I see. Nonetheless, they are still missing that tall, physical red zone type guy, obviously. Not sure how serious Hixon's injury is, but maybe that will open the door for Barden.

[Lathum]

Quite the coming out party for Manninghan

[CU Tiger]

You keep using that word "talent," I don't think it means what you think it means. Jamarcus showed NFL talent the moment he stepped onto the college field. As a junior he showed top of the line college skill as well. Now maybe upon reflection you would say the smart money was on him not having or developing an NFL skillset.

Jamarcus's only MAJOR flaw in college is the same as the NFL, he hasn't yet developed the instincts to have accuracy beyond throwing the ball to points on the field. He can't consistently hit WRs in stride, and occationally struggles against moving coverage. So if you would have bet Jamarcus, even with his natural arm strength and arm accuracy from that arm strength, wouldn't develop that instinct by now, more power to you.

But the bottom line is, Jamarcus showed as few(or as many) flaws in his college game as the average top 5 QB, with more upside than most.


1 - This is my first post in the thread; I don't "keep" using any word
2 - I am using the word "talent" the way an employee is a "talent". I can re-phrase, he was seen as a good college player but I never heard smart people say he would be a good NFL player (much th way Ron Dayne fits this argument)

[bulletsponge]

my god romo looks like shit

[hoopsguy]

Scored too quickly, I'm guessing Manning leads them to a field goal as time expires.

Also, I frigging love Marion Barber and hope that there is nothing wrong - he looked like he was going into the end zone on that run and then pulled a muscle or something.

[Karlifornia]

Ugh...Barber had a TD and pulls a muscle at the 10 yard line.

That's Barber's touchdown, Dicklix Jones!

(I should have never started playing fantasy football)

[Lathum]

Giants are getting exactly what they deserve. To many field goals, including a missed 29 yarder that would have made it a 2 possession game. I am gonna be so pissed if they lose.

[JS19]

I shouldn't let my heart get in the way of my fantasy football decisions, I benched Jones today bc they were playing the Giants.

[DaddyTorgo]

Giants are getting exactly what they deserve. To many field goals, including a missed 29 yarder that would have made it a 2 possession game. I am gonna be so pissed if they lose.

welcome to how Pats fans felt today. Too many FG's and too many missed opportunities to punch it in for TD's.

[Tigercat]

1 - This is my first post in the thread; I don't "keep" using any word
2 - I am using the word "talent" the way an employee is a "talent". I can re-phrase, he was seen as a good college player but I never heard smart people say he would be a good NFL player (much th way Ron Dayne fits this argument)

1) that was mostly a joke, although I do think you were misusing "talent" because:

2) Ron Dayne would only fit in this argument if he could run a 4.4 flat 40 and 4.3 shuttle. Jemarcus can make every throw on the football field, from any position in the pocket/behind the line of scrimmage. Unfortunately he can only do so consistently if the target is stationary and a defender isn't in good position.

So Dayne would be a great comparison if Dayne had the best speed and agility for a RB we have seen maybe ever, but he could only find running lanes in college and not in the NFL. And in that case, to say that Dayne was a "good bet" to fail from the start sounds ridiculous.

Edit to add: 3) Most draft "expert" ratings had him as a top 3-5 talent on their boards, independent of where players will be drafted, more had him at #1 than any other player. If you don't call that "smart people saying he will be a good NFL player" than I don't know what you mean by that.

[Crapshoot]

The Giants defense = shredded here. WTF?

[bulletsponge]

are people really suprised that Russell sucks? i mean someone gave him the nickname Jabustus before he was picked for a reason. i know many in this forum figured he would be a bust (i know i did)

[Lathum]

Terrible with 2:23 left that they don't get a play off before the 2 miinute warning

[RendeR]

Come on Manning move the damn offense.

*Please note I can't stand either team but when it comes to a game involving the cowgirls I will always root for whomever they play.

Let's just say I hate New York "Less" than I hate Dallas.

=)

[JS19]

HUGE play coming up here. Now would be as good as time as any to hit Boss for a 1st down.

[Tigercat]

are people really suprised that Russell sucks? i mean someone gave him the nickname Jabustus before he was picked for a reason. i know many in this forum figured he would be a bust (i know i did)

QBs fail at a high rate, calling any QB a bust isn't the worst bet in the world. The problem is, nothing Jamarcus ever did before he was a pro warranted that kind of confident opinion that he would be bad. He had more going for him than Alex Smith, yet more arm chair draft experts predicted a Jamarcus bust than an Alex Smith bust. It's that kind of factless based revisionist history that causes me to make posts like this defending him, when I am not really that inclined to defend his game as it is now.

Although for the record, Jamarcus was decent last year, he may still go on to be decent this year, we shall see.

[CU Tiger]

1) that was mostly a joke, although I do think you were misusing "talent" because:

2) Ron Dayne would only fit in this argument if he could run a 4.4 flat 40 and 4.3 shuttle. Jemarcus can make every throw on the football field, from any position in the pocket/behind the line of scrimmage. Unfortunately he can only do so consistently if the target is stationary and a defender isn't in good position.

So Dayne would be a great comparison if Dayne had the best speed and agility for a RB we have seen maybe ever, but he could only find running lanes in college and not in the NFL. And in that case, to say that Dayne was a "good bet" to fail from the start sounds ridiculous.

No there is clearly more than one usage of the word talent. One can have taleent or one can be a talent, and lastly one can simply be talent. When I was coaching and we were setting up game films on HS kids, it was often used as he is good HS talent, good college talent or good pro talent, this had nothing to do with skill set. Just where that person could fit...

Much the way a TV newsperson or even radio broadcaster is called talent not an employee

Ron Dayne was a great college talent (even though he never had a superlatove skill set) but was a below average pro talent

Regardless, JR was a decent (not great dont kid yourself) college QB...I distinctly remember Steve young and Troy Aikman on air each saying he had to totally revamp much of his game to survive in the NFL..... even his cannon, has a sticky release and a horrible trajection angle...thats not to even mention his Ray Charles-esqu field vision.

To me, he is Dan mcGuire with a lower football IQ, and a dumber owner.

[JS19]

ohhhhhh boy, please tynes, please

[Lathum]

Great catch by Manningham on the tipped pass

[Eaglesfan27]

I hate that timeout as it is being snapped.

[Lathum]

I hate the nnja timeout

[tucker rocky]

Ninja sighting

[Galaxy]

I hate that timeout as it is being snapped.

For some reason, I think the NFL made a rule about that. Guess not.

[Lathum]

Awesome win, love the fact we spoiled the opening of that eyesore

[Crapshoot]

Nice way to end it.

[JS19]

whew. not gonna lie, with all the missed opportunities, I didn't think they would be able to pull it off.

[Tigercat]

Regardless, JR was a decent (not great dont kid yourself) college QB...

The only big thing I disagree with you on that post. His junior year, which is GREAT by any standards:

Cmp% yards yd/c INT TDs
67.8 3129 9.1 8 28

There was a time were some tried to pass the buck on those stats by saying that the LSU team that year had so much talent at WR, but as it turns out, only Bowe was very talented on that WR corps. And Bowe isn't so good that he is the answer as to why a "decent" QB completed nearly 70% of his passes in the SEC.

[Big Fo]

Dallas opens their new stadium with a loss. It's the least they deserve for that Great Wall - Taj Mahal - Roman Coliseum opening segment.

[Lathum]

All the Eli haters can piss off also, he once again stepped up in a huge spot and got his team a win

[Tigercat]

World's most expensive losing experience?

[RendeR]

Seriously, talk about over blowing a stadium's worth. And while the scoreboard is very impressive, its also really fucking ugly in the middle of everything.

[RendeR]

Holy shit she's short!

[Lathum]

Giants are set up real nicely, @ Tampa next week, then Oakland and KC at home. Got a really good shot at starting 5-0.

[Izulde]

I would just like to say fuck you and your underachieving ass Brandon Jacobs for probably costing me the win this week in fantasy football.

[Lathum]

I would just like to say fuck you and your underachieving ass Brandon Jacobs for probably costing me the win this week in fantasy football.

stick with him, he has a real soft schedule coming up

[Izulde]

stick with him, he has a real soft schedule coming up

Thanks for letting me know that. I was just pondering cutting him in aggravation.

[Lathum]

Thanks for letting me know that. I was just pondering cutting him in aggravation.

did you see my post above?

TB, Oak, and KC next 3 weeks

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

Congrats to the Jet fans for the game yesterday - you guys punched us in the nose and we crumbled. Got a few things to work on for next week though I'm glad the offense is the problem and not the defense; the offense will steady itself while the defense is held together with scotch tape.

[gstelmack]

Jemarcus can make every throw on the football field, from any position in the pocket/behind the line of scrimmage. Unfortunately he can only do so consistently if the target is stationary and a defender isn't in good position.

Wait, I thought you were trying to argue that he's always been an NFL talent?

There are strong-armed ex-football players all over the place. Decision making and accuracy are what make someone an NFL QB, and that's been the knock on Russell all along.

[gstelmack]

Seriously, talk about over blowing a stadium's worth. And while the scoreboard is very impressive, its also really fucking ugly in the middle of everything.

I love how Jones seems to think people want to come to his stadium to watch TV...

[TroyF]

Not much to add here that hasn't been said. I also get a major kick out of people panicking at 0-2. There are levels. If you are the Titans and are 0-2 and have the next four games before the bye looking like this:

@Jets
@Jags
Colts
@Patriots

maybe you should be a bit concerned. If you are the Bears, even if you'd lost against the Steelers, it wouldn't be time to hit any panic buttons yet.

Some obvservations from two weeks:

Brees is as on as Brady was at the start of 2007. He simply cannot miss right now.

The Steelers O-Line will end any chance they have at repeating.

Brady looked bad yesterday. Not setting in and throwing the ball. The Patriots D has major holes. I think Brady will improve. I think the defense will still suck. I said it last week and I believe it even more now. The Pats look like the early Manning years Colts teams.

I think people may be overrating the Ravens a tad this early in the year. Their offense looks sensational, but that was against the Chiefs D and a Chargers D without Williams. (let's not forget the Chargers gave up 366 yards to the Raiders in week 1). Their defense just doesn't look like what it used to be. 474 yards for the Chargers without a ground game at all? Yikes. Don't get me wrong, I understand how tough that game was yesterday and they could easily make a Super Bowl run. . . I just want to see a little more before I jump on their bandwagon.

The Browns have the single worst offense I've ever seen. The Broncos looked like some incarnation of the '85 Bears yesterday. Watching the game, you never got the feeling they had a chance at a big play. Just a horrible team.

Which AFC team has the best point differential after two weeks? That'd be the Denver Broncos at +26. Which team will have the second or third worst point differential in the AFC by the end of the year? That'd be the Denver Broncos.

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

The Pats D has been fine over the first two weeks. It's one thing if you expect regression, but the evidence so far (265 yds/game, 16.5 pts/game) shows them not to be the problem.

edit: Which is not to say that there won't be growing pains this year. My point is just that the defense has held up its end of the bargain the first two games.

[JAG]

Obviously not the outcome I would've liked, but a heck of a game (Cowboys - Giants). I can't remember the last time I saw the Giants' run D gashed that badly, but they majorly frustrated Romo even with a number of injuries in the secondary and while the Giants' offense failed in the red zone a lot, they didn't hurt themselves with turnovers and protected Manning very well.

[JAG]

Which AFC team has the best point differential after two weeks? That'd be the Denver Broncos at +26.

That's some crazy stuff.

[DaddyTorgo]

The Pats D has been fine over the first two weeks. It's one thing if you expect regression, but the evidence so far (265 yds/game, 16.5 pts/game) shows them not to be the problem.

edit: Which is not to say that there won't be growing pains this year. My point is just that the defense has held up its end of the bargain the first two games.

I agree. Surprisingly well after the loss of Mayo to be honest. I was expecting them to look worse than they did yesterday. The problem yesterday was the offense - the first two drives they put together that ended in FG's - those needed to be punched in. Or at least one of them and then you're looking at a totally different ballgame.

Credit that to the Jets defense for sure - they played much better than I expected, but I also think that as somebody pointed out earlier (molson? gstelmack?) the Pats O-line is not great right now and the timing + connection between Brady and the receivers in the face of that pressure just isn't quite there yet. It's close...but just not quite there.

I also think that although Edelman played very well, if Brady has his "binky" Wes Welker then things might have looked different (possibly). I also thought as early as the 2nd quarter that they weren't running the ball enough. It seemed that Fred Taylor in particular was running very effectively - they could have used to run him more to slow down the Jets blitzing.

But maybe Belichek and Brady know something we don't - maybe they figured "look...Tom needs to see this level of pressure and we're just going to let him try to throw his way back into that perfect pressure-rhythm with his receivers, even if it means that we might end up taking the loss." Not that I think they wanted to lose, but maybe they're seeing a bigger picture and were willing to risk the chance of losing in order to try to get some of the kinks worked out.

It also was pretty close - a couple drops turn into catches and the Pats have a chance of pulling it out to a tie at the end there, or even a win if we talk earlier in the game. Some of those were Galloway, a couple were bad throws by Tom, etc

[Vince, Pt. II]

What's more surprising:

- 2nd in Points scored: Baltimore Ravens

- Denver is 2-0 with Kyle Orton

[Fidatelo]

I think definitely the Baltimore offense. Denver has played a couple of teams as equally mediocre as themselves, so 2-0, while not necessarily expected, is not really surprising.

Now, if they finish with more than 6 wins, given their remaining schedule, that will be surprising.

[RomaGoth]

...thats not to even mention his Ray Charles-esqu field vision.

This thread delivers....

[spleen1015]

I just saw the highlight of the pass that went right through TO's hands.

ROFL.

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

And that just happened.

[larrymcg421]

Great answer for the Fins!

[Izulde]

Great answer for the Fins!

Yep. Happy birthday, Wildcat! :)

[Fidatelo]

Are these guys singlehandedly trying to nickname Peyton Manning "The Sheriff"? I've never heard him called that before.

[larrymcg421]

Pat has to try sell a fake when he does that. He can't just stand there.

[Izulde]

Man, I love watching Ronnie Brown run. :)

[larrymcg421]

Man, I love watching Ronnie Brown run. :)

It's great that they established him early. It seemed like last week the game was starting to get away and he only had a handful of carries.

Plus, it's great that they have Ricky (and Patrick) in the depth chart. I think it gives Ronnie the ability to run really hard without worrying that some scab will have to spell him if he can't come back for the next play.

[larrymcg421]

I'd love to get a 3 and out here and see what this Colts D will look like on the next drive. :)

[spleen1015]

I'll take a 50yd TD run from Brown then he can call it a night. I need 11 more points for victory!

[dervack]

I'll take a 50yd TD run from Brown then he can call it a night. I need 11 more points for victory!
I need 9, so I'll take that run too.

[DataKing]

I need 9, so I'll take that run too.

He's on my bench :( Probably for the last time until Matt Forte wakes up.

[cartman]

I just had my worst week ever in fantasy football. Every single one of my starters WAY underperformed. I'll need Manning to throw for 600 yards and 10 TDs to even have a chance.

[DaddyTorgo]

my brother had chris johnson, phillip rivers, and vincent jackson.

he rolled to like...242 total points in an espn standard-scoring league

[Izulde]

I was up against Philip Rivers and Vincent Jackson, which cost me this week.