NFL Regular Season Week 5 Thread

[DeToxRox]

Lions back on MNF and it looks like Nick Fairley will be making his debut.

[Matthean]

Suck for Luck games

KC@IND
ARI@MINN

[Lathum]

Giants get the Seahawks today, I hope they don't get over confident. I have been talking a ton of shit to the Seahawks fans at work and tomorrow will be brutal if the Giants find a way to lose the game.

[Chubby]

Lions back on MNF and it looks like Nick Fairley will be making his debut.

Just as I pulled a Topps Prime autograph of him!

[Matthean]

Giants get the Seahawks today, I hope they don't get over confident. I have been talking a ton of shit to the Seahawks fans at work and tomorrow will be brutal if the Giants find a way to lose the game.

Seattle is a team that is very much easy to predict based on if it's a home game or not. I would be surprised that they would make one of the longer trips in the NFL and pull out a win.

[mckerney]

Suck for Luck games

KC@IND
ARI@MINN

Go Cards and Colts!

[B & B]

Go Cards and Colts!

Youre doing it wrong.


Both those teams lose

Kansas Shitty and the Viqueens both win by double digits.

NFL

No
Fucking
Logic

[spleen1015]

Giants get the Seahawks today, I hope they don't get over confident. I have been talking a ton of shit to the Seahawks fans at work and tomorrow will be brutal if the Giants find a way to lose the game.

Really? You talk shit to Seahawks fans?

:D

[kingfc22]

Niners actually have a meaningful game again! Yippee!

Here's hoping that Harbaugh uses Hunter like he did last game as it seemed to keep Gore fresh especially later in the game.

[Lathum]

Really? You talk shit to Seahawks fans?

:D

They make it so easy

[Chubby]

WHAT THE FUCK

I do not give a shit about the shitty Giants or the fucking Steelers and neither does anyone else in Syracuse.

[Raiders Army]

JUST WIN BABY

[Thomkal]

Bernard Berrian a surprise inactive for the Vikings today since he's healthy-apparantly got into a Twitter battle with a fan he didn't realize was a state representative, and said he's been open a lot the past four seasons and has been ignored.

Is this the first "suspension" due to Twitter? :)

[Matthean]

Cam's first pass is an INT. Saints up 7-0.

[Thomkal]

Cam Newton first pass of the day is an INT, leading to a quick New Orleans TD. Could be a long day for the rook.

[Thomkal]

<---curses Matt for beating me to it :)

[kingfc22]

They make it so easy

Well that wasn't a good start, but it is the Seahawks that you are playing...

[mckerney]

Bernard Berrian a surprise inactive for the Vikings today since he's healthy-apparantly got into a Twitter battle with a fan he didn't realize was a state representative, and said he's been open a lot the past four seasons and has been ignored.

Is this the first "suspension" due to Twitter? :)

It could just be due to the fact that Berrian is terrible.

[kingfc22]

And KC takes the early lead in the Suck for Luck battle with Indy.

[Thomkal]

::sigh:::

My beloved Cards already down 14-0 against the Vikes. I hope this is yet another week the Vikes choke late.

[DeToxRox]

Kevin Kolb is not a very good QB. Still can't believe what Arizona gave up to get him and then sign him to an extension.

[mckerney]

::sigh:::

My beloved Cards already down 14-0 against the Vikes. I hope this is yet another week the Vikes choke late.

With Winfield out the Vikings don't have any defensive backs that are even halfway decent, should be plenty of chances with open receivers if Kolb can hit any of them.

[Thomkal]

and soon to be 21-0 after a Kolb fumble.

[Radii]

Ridiculous catch by steve smith + run after for a touchdown. Roman Harper with a late hit well after smith was in the end zone causing a little skirmish. And then the saints block the XP, heh.

[Matthean]

Minny up 28-0 in the first.

[mckerney]

Dammit.

[Easy Mac]

Ridiculous catch by steve smith + run after for a touchdown. Roman Harper with a late hit well after smith was in the end zone causing a little skirmish. And then the saints block the XP, heh.

I like how Harper came back over, Smith wrestled him to the ground, then dragged Harper around by the helmet.

[Bearcat729]

I like how Harper came back over, Smith wrestled him to the ground, then dragged Harper around by the helmet.

I have a feeling there will be a big cash payout and maybe a game off for doing that.

[DeToxRox]

Michael Vick doing a lot to prove last year was an aberration.

[Bearcat729]

Michael Vick doing a lot to prove last year was an aberration.

I'd hate to see the Philly fans if Vick was playing this way while Kolb was playing better.

I also wonder how long until fire Andy Reid stuff starts

[Galaxy]

The Bills certainly have a way of making the top quarterbacks they have played this year turnover the ball. Brady had four picks, Vick is up to three so far.

[Matthean]

Painter has a 152.2 QB rating.

[Julio Riddols]

Ok, is K.C. making Painter look like Manning on a good day, or is Painter somehow miraculously playing really well all of a sudden?

[Lathum]

This is horrible

[JonInMiddleGA]

Colts & Vikes both screwing up the Suck for Luck sweepstakes

[DeToxRox]

Mario Williams has suffered a pec injury. No word on the severity but I'd imagine if it's torn his year is done.

[whomario]

What the hell Carolina ?

[Pumpy Tudors]

OK, I need someone to explain to me why Carolina took that timeout. I'm not really looking for an explanation. I just want to find someone who can attempt to justify it so I can laugh at them.

[Matthean]

So Saints have no time outs, fail to get a FG off, but somehow Carolina called one. Saints get 2 seconds and kick the field goal. Carolina player would have committed a personal foul if there wasn't a time out called. Personal foul calls have been flying so far.

[Masked]

What the hell Carolina ?

They had 12 men on the field

[Radii]

OK, I need someone to explain to me why Carolina took that timeout. I'm not really looking for an explanation. I just want to find someone who can attempt to justify it so I can laugh at them.

They forgot John Kasay left Carolina for the Saints. They've been taking timeouts for Kasay to kick field goals for a decade, so why stop now.

[spleen1015]

Looks like they want to make you sweat Lathum.

[molson]

I think it could be the start of a new era of gentlemanly play in the NFL. If one team runs out of timeouts, the other team will let them use one of theirs.

[Chubby]

about time Nicks showed up (for my fantasy team)

[Pumpy Tudors]

They had 12 men on the field
Yes, they did. Still, the Saints were still shuffling around trying to get set with 2 seconds on the clock. At best, the clock runs out. Next best, you get offsetting penalties for the 12 men and then illegal motion on the offense. Worst case, you call a timeout and let the offense kick a field goal with their entire team set.

Carolina fail.

[Thomkal]

So Saints have no time outs, fail to get a FG off, but somehow Carolina called one. Saints get 2 seconds and kick the field goal. Carolina player would have committed a personal foul if there wasn't a time out called. Personal foul calls have been flying so far.

and worse yet it was their longtime kicker John Kasay getting the FG for the Saints

[Suicane75]

I'm a level headed guy but I can't defend Andy Reid anymore. His decision making is atrocious. I can't imagine a change will provide better results than the past 10 years but this team could not possibly be any more of a mess.

[Matthean]

Further proof that Andy Reid is a QB sorcerer:

McNabb 4-12, 63 yds, 51.7 QB rating
Kevin Kolb 11-22, 104 yds, 1 INT, 44.5 QB rating

How he got as much as he did out of those two, and AJ Feeley before them, is baffling.

With McNabb, he had him during his prime. Kolb has a career QB rating of 77.2. His rating this year before this game is 87. His best two years in Philly he threw 11 TDs, 10 INTs, and had 6 fumbles in just under 180 pass attempts.

[Thomkal]

uh the ref in the Cards/Vikings game must have a concussion or something. Arizona just challenged a call and the ref announced:

"Carolina is Challenging the call"

[Radii]

So I'm happy for the 15 yards but the serious bullshit calls aimed at protecting QBs continue as the Saints get a roughing the passer penalty for reasons that no one can figure out.

[molson]

uh the ref in the Cards/Vikings game must have a concussion or something. Arizona just challenged a call and the ref announced:

"Carolina is Challenging the call"

They're calling timeouts for other teams and they're challenging calls in games they're not even involved in.

[Thomkal]

Cards get a Beanie Wells TD, sign of another Minnesota collapse perhaps?

[Matthean]

How long does Juan Castillo stay as the defensive corr. for the Eagles? Seems like promoting up Jim Washburn would be a logical choice.

[Autumn]

They're calling timeouts for other teams and they're challenging calls in games they're not even involved in.

The paranoids who think all the games are fixed must be cackling at home. "See, they've got their signals scrambled in their headsets! They're getting the wrong orders!"

[Radii]

Solid drive for Carolina to get a TD and to give the defense a rest, time of possession was getting totally out of hand before that. 23-20 saints.

[mckerney]

Come on Vikings, this is the lead you've been preparing to blow all season.

[SnowMan]

Come on Vikings, this is the lead you've been preparing to blow all season.
:lol:

[Radii]

Brees threw an interception and carolina is driving as the 3rd quarter ends. Newton just scrambled for a 1st down, Panthers inside the 30, looking to be yet another exciting 4th quarter for Carolina!

[Thomkal]

who would have thought we'd be saying things like that at the start of the season huh Radii?

[Radii]

who would have thought we'd be saying things like that at the start of the season huh Radii?

I was 100% hating Newton, thought it was a dreadful pick. I dunno if I've ever been so happy to admit that I have no idea what the hell I'm talking about :D

[Radii]

It took awhile with another Saints roughing penalty (this one legit), but Carolina gets in the end zone, taking the lead!

[Matthean]

A couple option plays have been successful for Carolina as well with one getting a TD and the other a first down.

[Lathum]

Holy crap! Victor Cruz!

[Travis]

Eli better be thanking his lucky stars. Throwing into double coverage, nearly being picked and instead getting a tip for a touchdown. Come on Seahawks, get some points back on the board.

[Matthean]

Should be a fun next 30ish minutes with so many games with 3-5 point differences.

[Eaglesfan27]

Philly putting together a nice 2nd half. Would be nice if they would put together a complete game.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Chiefs rally back from 17 down. Now ahead 28-24 with 5 min left.

[Philliesfan980]

I'll tell you what, if Buffalo goes on to lose this game, they should be completely disgusted with themselves. Talk about playing conservative with the lead - wow.

I guess that's what happens when you have a team that's not used to winning, they don't know how to close out games.

[Julio Riddols]

Bengals get a defensive TD on the final play of the game when Jacksonville fumbles after several laterals and it counts. My fantasy team is happy.

[Eaglesfan27]

Disgusting season.

[stevew]

The Eagles are an abomination.

[Lathum]

How the fuck do you let Charlie Fucking Whitehurst march down the field and score a t?

[Chubby]

Who says the hard count to draw them offsides never works? :D

[Chubby]

I'll tell you what, if Buffalo goes on to lose this game, they should be completely disgusted with themselves. Talk about playing conservative with the lead - wow.

I guess that's what happens when you have a team that's not used to winning, they don't know how to close out games.

Who is 4-1 and who is 1-4? :devil:

[mauchow]

THE DREAM TEAM!

[mauchow]

Amazingly I've gotten all my picks right for the Eagles games except this one.

[Radii]

Another really fun, competitive Panthers game, the difference in experience is really obvious watching Brees shred the panther defense when it mattered most and Carolina commit penalties and struggle to get to midfield at the end.

[bulletsponge]

same ol Texans

[Matthean]

Eli!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Every time I see the old Patriot unis, I immediately think 'Steve Grogan'. I think it's the Tecmo Bowl influence.

[hoopsguy]

The Eagles are an intriguing dark horse in the Suck for Luck derby.

I can see that Vick putting the "Dream Team" label to rest was critical to the team psyche.

[SnowMan]

Hell yes, Hawks!

[Scoobz0202]

Lathum is going to have some fun at work tomorrow lol

[Lathum]

Eli!

You can't put that one on Eli. Receiver falls down, tips the pass, bounces off of 3 defenders and right into the guys hand.

Bottom line is the Giants got everything they deserved today, they played horribly.

Gonna be a long day at work tomorrow.

[DeToxRox]

You can't put that one on Eli. Receiver falls down, tips the pass, bounces off of 3 defenders and right into the guys hand.

Bottom line is the Giants got everything they deserved today, they played horribly.

Gonna be a long day at work tomorrow.

Eli didn't look at his progressions. Bradshaw was wide open, would have walked in untouched. He locked on Cruz from the beginning.

[Travis]

Awful luck for Cruz/Eli on the slip/pick 6 but that makes up for the Cruz tip/TD.

And wow is Aaron Curry looking like an absolute bust. No play recognition and always goes for the highlight tackle which usually results in 8-10 extra yards on the play for the offense.

[SnowMan]

Curry is horrible. Horrible. Another Timmay Ruskell failed first rounder. That makes him a clean 5 for 5!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Good to see the Raiders haven't forgot how to commit stupid penalties.

[kingfc22]

Oakland doing it's best to kill Al again.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Oooooffff. Raiders survive.

[Danny]

They gave me a heart attack, I had flashbacks to Buffalo, but we managed to get the win. We have such a talented team that does so many things well, but penalties try and kill us again and again.

[kingfc22]

Who is this guy wearing #11 for the Niners? Amazing to see the difference in his performance under Harbaugh.

[Danny]

Our schedule gets a lot easier now thankfully.

[Matthean]

Who is this guy wearing #11 for the Niners? Amazing to see the difference in his performance under Harbaugh.

Will be a fun game next week with SF @ Detroit.

[kingfc22]

Carlos Rogers making an early bid for a Pro Bowl selection.

3rd pick in 3 games and this one goes for 6.

[Vince, Pt. II]

So I cancelled my cable subscription about 3 months ago, saving around $100 per month. A happy side effect was going to be the fact that I was going to be able to avoid having to watch Alex Smith play football this fall much easier. Now, I'm not so sure I like that option.

[fpres]

I swear, the Texans are the 'Bad News Bears' of football. If you can't win a home game against a team that doesn't earn a 1st down until around the 2:00 minute mark of the first half, you aren't a playoff team.

This franchise is going nowhere as long as Kubiak and Schaub are here. Both need to go.

[jbergey22]

I swear, the Texans are the 'Bad News Bears' of football. If you can't win a home game against a team that doesn't earn a 1st down until around the 2:00 minute mark of the first half, you aren't a playoff team.

This franchise is going nowhere as long as Kubiak and Schaub are here. Both need to go.

Blame the schedule makers. You had to have known once Al passed away yesterday the Texans werent winning this game.

[kingfc22]

Niners pick off Freeman again.

[Shkspr]

Carlos Rogers making an early bid for a Pro Bowl selection.

3rd pick in 3 games and this one goes for 6.

More than anything else, this demonstrates how strong the overall quarterbacking in the league is this year.

I mean, that's three QBs in a row with the arm strength to throw the ball so hard it dents stone.

[TroyF]

I'm stunned by how badly the Chargers look. I mean, stunned. This team will not win the division against this Raiders team. They are making Willis McGahee look like Walter Payton.

[jbergey22]

I'm stunned by how badly the Chargers look. I mean, stunned. This team will not win the division against this Raiders team. They are making Willis McGahee look like Walter Payton.

This has been the theme since Norv became the coach. They always look like garbage at the beginning of the season. This is actually one of their better starts.

[bulletsponge]

I swear, the Texans are the 'Bad News Bears' of football. If you can't win a home game against a team that doesn't earn a 1st down until around the 2:00 minute mark of the first half, you aren't a playoff team.

This franchise is going nowhere as long as Kubiak and Schaub are here. Both need to go.

dont be too hard on them. they took them from perennial 4 win team to a perennial 7 win team

[TroyF]

This has been the theme since Norv became the coach. They always look like garbage at the beginning of the season. This is actually one of their better starts.

I understand all about Norv and his inability to coach a football team. But this Broncos team is REALLY, REALLY bad. Rivers is very lucky he doesn't have two INT's and they are not trailing by more than 4.

[TroyF]

I'm sure Rivers is a wonderful human being off of the football field, but on the field, there is about no other player I like less. If I had a kid, and he acted like Rivers does on the field, he wouldn't be allowed to play any sport. I can't tell if he's constipated, happy or crying and that's after he's done something GOOD.

Great QB who would have titles if he had a real coach, but I just can't stand his body language on the football field.

[Dutch]

Yikes. Who would win if they faced off? Tampa Bay or Yale? The Bucs are just looking totally befuddled out there.

[TroyF]

I'm beginning to think Josh Freeman believes he plays for the 49ers. It seems like every pass is targeted at a gold helmut. Pretty amazing.

As good as Willis has been, Orton has looked terrible. With the Broncos bye week next week and a likely blowout loss today, I think this may be the end of the Orton era in Denver.

[Dutch]

You know you are totally confused when your PR drops back 6 yards from the 10 to fair catch a football.

[Matthean]

Yikes. Who would win if they faced off? Tampa Bay or Yale? The Bucs are just looking totally befuddled out there.

I was surprised how badly outclassed they were at home against Detroit. Indy was rather close to winning considering Painter was their QB. I think they are the least convincing 3-1 team out there, and I'm wondering how many people are drinking the Freeman Kool-Aid right now.

[kingfc22]

I'm at a loss for words at the moment. It's like I'm in a flashback to the 80's and 90's watching this Niners team at the moment. I can't remember the last time they dominated a team with a .750 win pct.

Still a half to go and anything can happen just like the comeback last week in Philly, but I can't help to think about next week's game in DET.

[Dutch]

I was surprised how badly outclassed they were at home against Detroit. Indy was rather close to winning considering Painter was their QB. I think they are the least convincing 3-1 team out there, and I'm wondering how many people are drinking the Freeman Kool-Aid right now.

Right now? As in during this game where he's playing particularly flat and they are down 24-3? I'm guessing not many.

So far, I'm very impressed with him overall.

[Vince, Pt. II]

I'm at a loss for words at the moment. It's like I'm in a flashback to the 80's and 90's watching this Niners team at the moment. I can't remember the last time they dominated a team with a .750 win pct.

Still a half to go and anything can happen just like the comeback last week in Philly, but I can't help to think about next week's game in DET.

There's still a whole half of football left, calm yourself.

[kingfc22]

There's still a whole half of football left, calm yourself.

I know. I mentioned that exact thing in my post. :D

[Vince, Pt. II]

Haha. I'm having a hard enough time seeing it happen, and I don't even get to watch!

[Lathum]

I'm sure Rivers is a wonderful human being off of the football field, but on the field, there is about no other player I like less. If I had a kid, and he acted like Rivers does on the field, he wouldn't be allowed to play any sport. I can't tell if he's constipated, happy or crying and that's after he's done something GOOD.

Great QB who would have titles if he had a real coach, but I just can't stand his body language on the football field.

I agree with all of this

[TroyF]

OK, Orton is 6-13 for 34 yards passing and 1 INT (which actually should be 3 INT's if the Chargers knew how to hold onto the ball)

2.6 yards per pass attempt.

I'm sorry, but the "he gives us the best chance to win" garbage is long gone. Orton needs to be benched and the Broncos need to see what Tebow brings to the table for the next 10 games. Anything less is unacceptable.

[Dutch]

Bucs are now playing "I'm frustrated so I will try to strip the ball" football...that usually doesn't bode well against a team that seems to be firing on all cylinders. Bad football, Tampa.

[kingfc22]

And Vernon Davis breaks two tackles for another Niners TD!

[TroyF]

I hear an interview with Eli and he talks about how unfortunate it is they lost the game on a tipped INT.

I kind of doubt he'd mention he was lucky to win the game on a 68 yard fluke TD pass had they won.

[kingfc22]

Hey Kellen - Look at the scoreboard jackass.

[Lathum]

I hear an interview with Eli and he talks about how unfortunate it is they lost the game on a tipped INT.

I kind of doubt he'd mention he was lucky to win the game on a 68 yard fluke TD pass had they won.

Eli needs to STFU. They lost because they under estimated their opponent and didn't come out ready to play.

[TroyF]

Tebow starting the third quarter in Denver.

[spleen1015]

Go Colts!

[RendeR]

I just want to say that I am LOVING our defense, I and really enjoying watching Dalton grow into a real leader. The future looks bright in bengaldom.


GO BENGALS!

[rowech]

I just want to say that I am LOVING our defense, I and really enjoying watching Dalton grow into a real leader. The future looks bright in bengaldom.


GO BENGALS!

They really haven't played a tough team yet though in my opinion. Caught the Bills after the Pats...trap game. We will see the 2nd half of the schedule.

They need to replace Benson. He's done. You can see it in his decisions, his hitting the hole, etc. Just too slow. Need another WR and need a new secondary in my opinion minus Hall.

That said, the core is extremely nice. Much better than I could have imagined and I actually enjoy rooting for these guys. AJ Green is an absolute stud.

[RendeR]

Oh no doubt they have a weak schedule and I'm excited to see how they do in the division in the second half of the season.

Its just nice to feel positive about a team again.

[kingfc22]

Hey Vince - 2nd half is looking good for us so far!

[JPhillips]

The future looks bright in bengaldom.

http://www.bengalsgab.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/jolly-fool.jpg

[cougarfreak]

They really haven't played a tough team yet though in my opinion. Caught the Bills after the Pats...trap game. We will see the 2nd half of the schedule.

They need to replace Benson. He's done. You can see it in his decisions, his hitting the hole, etc. Just too slow. Need another WR and need a new secondary in my opinion minus Hall.

That said, the core is extremely nice. Much better than I could have imagined and I actually enjoy rooting for these guys. AJ Green is an absolute stud.

I think Simpson and Gresham are ok. Simpson would be better as a 3, but I'll take what we've got now over the fucking ocho stinko and TO bullshit we put up with last year. The schedule has been easy, but they've won 2 on the road as well. Winning on the road is always difficult. If they can win next week, they're in pretty good shape if they can manage to keep from getting swept by Pittsburgh and Balt.

[rowech]

I think Simpson and Gresham are ok. Simpson would be better as a 3, but I'll take what we've got now over the fucking ocho stinko and TO bullshit we put up with last year. The schedule has been easy, but they've won 2 on the road as well. Winning on the road is always difficult. If they can win next week, they're in pretty good shape if they can manage to keep from getting swept by Pittsburgh and Balt.

Gresham's great. Simpson is going to be going to prison.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Hey Vince - 2nd half is looking good for us so far!

This is absurd.

[Matthean]

http://www.bengalsgab.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/jolly-fool.jpg

The Lions are still run by Ford Sr.

[Karlifornia]

The Buccaneers look like the worst team ever today. Just doing everything wrong.

[RendeR]

http://www.bengalsgab.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/jolly-fool.jpg


Ok really, this was just rude ;)

[DeToxRox]

Brady Quinn may very well be the best QB on the Broncos.

[Dutch]

The Buccaneers look like the worst team ever today. Just doing everything wrong.

Agreed. For a young team they do a great job of keeping their composure, but they were totally manhandled today and once the coach lost his composure the rest of the team collapsed. Hopefully they learn a little bit about poise from this.

[Matthean]

Just watched a ESPN clip about Gore saying Philly quit on them. It was mentioned that Jim Harbaugh has that "punch you in the mouth and take your lunch money" mentality. They are clearly showing it here. I think Philly will be the turnaround game for this team when what Harbaugh is preaching finally sunk in. San Fran could legitimately end up being around the 3rd-4th best team in the NFC and I'm not sure how bullet proof the Saints are at #2.

[Dutch]

The 49'ers should probably just pound the rock at this point.

[Vince, Pt. II]

If you had told me that the first reps Kaepernick got in the NFL was because Alex Smith had been pulled with a 38 point lead, I would have laughed my ass off.

[Dutch]

At least Alex Smith is one of my work-league FF QB's. :)

[Matthean]

Brady Quinn may very well be the best QB on the Broncos.

People keep saying he's the #2 guy despite Tebow getting play.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Brady Quinn may very well be the best QB on the Broncos.
I'm surprised nobody thought this going into today's game. I get most of the fans wanted Tebow, but if you're going to pull Orton today, I would think it's better to put Quinn in. Anyway, that's just me. I assume Tebow was better prepared after the week of practice to step in mid-game, but he hasn't played like much of a quarterback since he came in. He's just an extra running back. The Broncos are within 8 points right now with 6 minutes to go, though, so they're not dead in the water just yet.

[kingfc22]

Harbaugh goes for it on 4th and 2 around the TB 25 yd line up 41-3 which leads to another TD to make it 48-3.

Can we get a Pete Carroll "what's your deal man" sound clip?!

[Dutch]

I don't know if I should laugh or cry....but the Bucs PR defense just signalled for a fair catch and pushed Ted Ginn out of the way to catch it. It was a nice catch, but you're on defense dumbass. :)

[kingfc22]

Gotta love Tebow "leading" at TD drive with a solid 1-5, 0 yard passing performance.

TD pass for Tebow :popcorn:

[DeToxRox]

TD pass for Tebow :popcorn:

In all fairness it was a screen pass.

[kingfc22]

In all fairness it was a screen pass.

Technicality. Lol.

[TroyF]

I'm surprised nobody thought this going into today's game. I get most of the fans wanted Tebow, but if you're going to pull Orton today, I would think it's better to put Quinn in. Anyway, that's just me. I assume Tebow was better prepared after the week of practice to step in mid-game, but he hasn't played like much of a quarterback since he came in. He's just an extra running back. The Broncos are within 8 points right now with 6 minutes to go, though, so they're not dead in the water just yet.

I think anyone who wants Quinn may have not watched the Broncos/Cardinals preseason game.

Quinn got a chance to be the clear cut second string QB that game and was beyond horrible.

Look, I'm not on the Tebow bandwagon per se. I just think he was your #1 pick a few years ago and it's not like the team has a chance to win anyway. Honestly, does anyone think Brady Quinn is the Broncos future long term starter?

I don't know if Tebow is, but at least it's "I don't know" not "no way in hell"

We may as well play the kid for the next 11 games and see what he can do. if he sucks ass, he sucks ass. At least he'll be more exciting than what Orton or Quinn can bring. And if he's not the long term QB, we draft one next year. I want to see him succeed or fail based off of actual game action and not based off of what people "think" he is.

As of now, he's not that good at throwing the ball. But I've had more fun watching him and the team this week than I have in the last three years.

[RedKingGold]

Thrilled to see the 49ers having a pulse again. Harbaugh for COY

[TroyF]

really nice late hit call there.

Classic case of seeing the second man in, but when the game is on the line, you can use a little bit of brainpower and not throw that flag for something that minor.

[jbergey22]

Harbaugh goes for it on 4th and 2 around the TB 25 yd line up 41-3 which leads to another TD to make it 48-3.

Can we get a Pete Carroll "what's your deal man" sound clip?!

I think that is normally what they do there. The other option is kicking a fg(which some would complain is also piling on) or taking a knee. I dont think he did anything wrong.

[Dutch]

I think that is normally what they do there. The other option is kicking a fg(which some would complain is also piling on) or taking a knee. I dont think he did anything wrong.

Nope, as long as their is time on the clock, PLAY. Just don't get hurt doing it...

[jbergey22]

Whether or not he ever amounts to a good NFL QB he makes things interesting and exciting. Good effort Denver.

[TroyF]

No, but it was a lot more enjoyable than the Broncos losing 36-13 that would have happened had Orton been the QB. :)

[Danny]

Still, a great performance by Tebow under the circumstances to give his team a chance. That ball could have been caught at the end.

[Danny]

As a Raiders fan, I hate the Broncos, but I can't help rooting for Tebow. Obviously didn't hurt today that they played the chargers.

[whomario]

that would have been awesome if that had somehow ended up with a Denver player. Actually if that receiver didn´t let himself push away so easily he would have been in position to catch that ball...

I´m with TroyF on this one, at least try it out. Plus it´s not like he looked terrible last year or am i remembering it wrong ?

[JAG]

There's no way this actually happens, is there?

I was thinking that too. That would've been a finish for the ages if it had. Lloyd's catch on the sidelines was fantastic.

[Vince, Pt. II]

This is probably the most legitimate it's been in 8 or 9 years to be excited about the 49ers, and yet I STILL can't bring myself to get there. I just think the team has too many flaws.

Doesn't mean I'm not enjoying myself, but it just seems surreal.

[Arles]

Packers look like a mess in this first half. Need to get back under control at halftime to have a chance.

[Dutch]

This is probably the most legitimate it's been in 8 or 9 years to be excited about the 49ers, and yet I STILL can't bring myself to get there. I just think the team has too many flaws.

Doesn't mean I'm not enjoying myself, but it just seems surreal.

Getting some confidence in Alex Smith certainly doesn't hurt...Mike Singletary damn near destroyed that guy...if Jim Harbaugh gets a whole season out of him, it'll be legendary.

[Vince, Pt. II]

I think the biggest part of today with regard to Alex Smith was that he wasn't sacked all day. I didn't get to watch, so I don't know if they pressured him much (or at all), but that is a huge step forward for a guy who's been sacked more than everyone not named Cutler.

[whomario]

Packers look like a mess in this first half. Need to get back under control at halftime to have a chance.

Well, they did in the end. Aaron Rodgers is amazing to watch :) 396 yards, no picks and passes to 12 different guys.

[Apathetic Lurker]

I have no idea how Tebow is going to end up, but it's going to be fun to see if he can consistently get the results without the numbers.

Not a Broncos fan but damn, Tebow is fun to watch....

[gstelmack]

I'm beginning to think Josh Freeman believes he plays for the 49ers. It seems like every pass is targeted at a gold helmut. Pretty amazing.

Shades of Vinny Testaverde, can't tell the difference between pewter and gold?

[Dutch]

Shades of Vinny Testaverde, can't tell the difference between pewter and gold?

lol, I forgot about Vinny's color blindness....I think Josh's problem is more that his WR's couldn't get enough seperation to make easier catches.

[JediKooter]

Way to go Norv. The Chargers held onto the ball for slightly over 40 minutes to Denver's 19 minutes and yet you still almost managed the game into a loss. Do you not watch what the Patriots do to weaker opponents? Barely beating crappy teams is not the road to the Super Bowl. You have the Jets, Chiefs, Packers, Raiders and the Bears the next 5 games. I smell a possible 1-4 stretch coming up.

[jbergey22]

Way to go Norv. The Chargers held onto the ball for slightly over 40 minutes to Denver's 19 minutes and yet you still almost managed the game into a loss. Do you not watch what the Patriots do to weaker opponents? Barely beating crappy teams is not the road to the Super Bowl. You have the Jets, Chiefs, Packers, Raiders and the Bears the next 5 games. I smell a possible 1-4 stretch coming up.

Their red zone offense is awful right now. Rivers needs to learn to just throw it up to his tall WRs near the goaline. I think he is so used to looking for Gates in that situation he is lost right now in the red zone.

[DanGarion]

I think the biggest part of today with regard to Alex Smith was that he wasn't sacked all day. I didn't get to watch, so I don't know if they pressured him much (or at all), but that is a huge step forward for a guy who's been sacked more than everyone not named Cutler.

There really didn't seem to be much pressure. We watched the whole game and I couldn't believe the protection he was getting. It was nice to say the least.

[Thomkal]

Mario Williams definitely out for the rest of the season with a torn pectoral muscle. Well not definitely yet I guess, but sure looking that way.

Mario Williams of Houston Texans out indefinitely, source says - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7083480/mario-williams-houston-texans-indefinitely-source-says)

Too bad for Mario-his team may finally make the playoffs and he won't be on the field for it.

[RainMaker]

While I'm enjoying football like any other year, I'm sort of missing when there was actual defense in the league. I know that's a part of not being allowed to really play it by the rules, but I miss having a few teams that just had dominant defenses that would shit down your throat.

Also, how is Fred Jackson not a bigger story? An undrafted guy from a little D3 college plays in a minor league Arena League, in Europe, and is now a leading rusher in the NFL at 30. It's a phenomenal story. I know ESPN and company only cover a few teams, but I don't know how this story keeps getting passed up.

[JediKooter]

Their red zone offense is awful right now. Rivers needs to learn to just throw it up to his tall WRs near the goaline. I think he is so used to looking for Gates in that situation he is lost right now in the red zone.

Unfortunately, I didn't get to watch the game. Just caught some highlights and stats, so I don't know if it was bad choices by Rivers. I think this is more the normal Norv Turner devolving of a team than Rivers missing Gates. Rivers has pretty much been without Gates for the most part of the last 3 seasons. I mean, it's possible that's what the problem was yesterday, but, I've seen enough games coached by Turner to think that it may be something else. :)

[Passacaglia]

The Eagles are an intriguing dark horse in the Suck for Luck derby.

I can see that Vick putting the "Dream Team" label to rest was critical to the team psyche.

Wasn't it Vince Young who did that?

[DanGarion]

Josh Morgan of San Francisco out for unknown amount of weeks with a fractured ankle. UGH.

[RainMaker]

Josh Morgan of San Francisco out for unknown amount of weeks with a fractured ankle. UGH.
Harbaugh learns why you don't throw up 40 with your starters in the game.

[Lathum]

Wasn't it Vince Young who did that?

Young started it and Vick came out and said it doesn't apply anymore.

[Rizon]

Wasn't it Vince Young who did that?

I think Young labeled them and Vick said it was BS now.

[Ksyrup]

I think anyone who wants Quinn may have not watched the Broncos/Cardinals preseason game.

Quinn got a chance to be the clear cut second string QB that game and was beyond horrible.

Look, I'm not on the Tebow bandwagon per se. I just think he was your #1 pick a few years ago and it's not like the team has a chance to win anyway. Honestly, does anyone think Brady Quinn is the Broncos future long term starter?

I don't know if Tebow is, but at least it's "I don't know" not "no way in hell"

We may as well play the kid for the next 11 games and see what he can do. if he sucks ass, he sucks ass. At least he'll be more exciting than what Orton or Quinn can bring. And if he's not the long term QB, we draft one next year. I want to see him succeed or fail based off of actual game action and not based off of what people "think" he is.

As of now, he's not that good at throwing the ball. But I've had more fun watching him and the team this week than I have in the last three years.

I don't care how good or bad Quinn has looked this year, there is NO WAY IN HELL Fox was going to pull Orton at home and NOT put in Tebow. I don't think he would have made it to his car after the game if he had done that.

By the end of the season, Cincinnati is going to wish it hadn't lost to Denver a few weeks ago, and Denver's going to wish it hadn't won that game. Cincy would be 4-1 right now, and Denver would be 0-5 looking at Tebow/Quinn for the remainder of the year.

[Ksyrup]

Actually if that receiver didn´t let himself push away so easily he would have been in position to catch that ball...


Speaking of which, I know it was essentially a hail mary and all, but when is shoving a receiver out of bounds not some sort of illegal contact penalty?

[Rizon]

Speaking of which, I know it was essentially a hail mary and all, but when is shoving a receiver out of bounds not some sort of illegal contact penalty?

I think since 10/9/11

[MikeVic]

While I'm enjoying football like any other year, I'm sort of missing when there was actual defense in the league. I know that's a part of not being allowed to really play it by the rules, but I miss having a few teams that just had dominant defenses that would shit down your throat.


I love run-stuffing, blitzes, awesome turnovers, in general solid defense. Maybe this is why I haven't watched as much football this year... It's a lot of passing, which isn't why I have the Steelers as my team.

[RainMaker]

The QB ratings are sort of crazy right now. Heck, Wes Welker might break Jerry Rice's single season yard record. It's Arena Football in a sense.

I sort of miss watching teams like Tampa and Baltimore when they just knocked the piss out of teams.

[Travis]

It's funny because that's probably the fun part of watching Seattle right now. Not saying they're a dominant D but their defensive line (while Red Bryant is healthy) is nasty against the run and their safeties are both a lot of fun to watch in pass coverage and when they drop down low to help with the run.

Linebacker play is a bit suspect right now while their corners alternate between great and awful play (kind of to be expected with the youth/inexperience at the position), but they're certainly trying to establish a smash mouth identity. A few tweaks and gained experience and hopefully they can get there sooner rather than later.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Speaking of which, I know it was essentially a hail mary and all, but when is shoving a receiver out of bounds not some sort of illegal contact penalty?
This is what I'm trying to figure out. On top of that, the ball came in pretty quickly after that happened, so it's likely the ball was in the air at the time of the shove. That would make it pass interference, not illegal contact, and now you're looking at an untimed down from the 1. I can only assume that the officials were not looking at that spot at the time, because that should have been a pretty easy call.

[DeToxRox]

Mario Williams definitely out for the rest of the season with a torn pectoral muscle. Well not definitely yet I guess, but sure looking that way.

Mario Williams of Houston Texans out indefinitely, source says - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7083480/mario-williams-houston-texans-indefinitely-source-says)

Too bad for Mario-his team may finally make the playoffs and he won't be on the field for it.

It's confirmed now, he's done.

[TroyF]

I don't care how good or bad Quinn has looked this year, there is NO WAY IN HELL Fox was going to pull Orton at home and NOT put in Tebow. I don't think he would have made it to his car after the game if he had done that.

By the end of the season, Cincinnati is going to wish it hadn't lost to Denver a few weeks ago, and Denver's going to wish it hadn't won that game. Cincy would be 4-1 right now, and Denver would be 0-5 looking at Tebow/Quinn for the remainder of the year.


Possibly. But I don't think anyone can know for sure. The Colts are 0-5 with Painter. Miami is already 0-4 and they have 7 divisional games left. I think Denver probably beats them with or without Tebow. Denver is in the mix, but I don't think the win against the Bengals will destroy their Luck chances.

If Tebow fails as bad as people think he will, the Broncos are done winning this year anyway.

[Matthean]

My guess is Elway would love to draft a Standford QB as the next franchise QB. The comparisons would likely be nauseating.

[bronconick]

My guess is Elway would love to draft a Standford QB as the next franchise QB. The comparisons would likely be nauseating.

Basically, you don't want Miami (Marino), Indy (Manning) or Denver (Elway) drafting Luck if you want to turn ESPN on next April.

[Scarecrow]

My guess is Elway would love to draft a Standford QB as the next franchise QB. The comparisons would likely be nauseating.

Wouldn't t be the 1st time Denver drafted a Stanford QB?

[Coffee Warlord]

Bears O-Line for the win!

[jbergey22]

This game is awful right now

[JAG]

Incredible that the Bears could think to go for it on 4th down when their offensive line has been getting whipped regularly.

[DeToxRox]

As a Lions fan, I apologize for anyone watching the worst game ever. Any sport.

[Matthean]

I didn't think the issue was going for it, but more going with the obvious Forte play.

[DeToxRox]

Jay Cutler is the biggest bitch in the NFL by the way. All the fucking guy does is whine.

[Coffee Warlord]

I've said it for years. Lovie Smith has no business being a head coach.

[Matthean]

Well, there's #1. :lol:

[DeToxRox]

I've said it for years. Lovie Smith has no business being a head coach.

Looked good in that Nyquil commercial though.

[jbergey22]

I've said it for years. Lovie Smith has no business being a head coach.

Who is coaching that line of the Bears? This is the most pathetic effort of blocking Ive seen in a NFL game.

Im not a Cutler fan but that guy has no chance out there.

[Ksyrup]

This game is an extreme example, but it epitomizes how unwatchable the NFL has become.

[jbergey22]

Hester needs to catch that ball. Perfect throw.

[Coffee Warlord]

Well well. Hi Jay. Your line is still awful, but that was some nice improv work.

[Matthean]

What do the Lions have against first halves? Outside of Megatron, Detroit has 58 yards.

[DeToxRox]

Lions as a team are playing way too fast. They all need to slow down. Overpursuit has been an issue on D all year, but especially so tonight.

[Matthean]

Lions as a team are playing way too fast. They all need to slow down. Overpursuit has been an issue on D all year, but especially so tonight.

Probably why they calm down at half and then play well after that.

[Coffee Warlord]

Refs leading the game in yards thus far.

[Neuqua]

All things considered, Cutler is having a great game so far.

[JAG]

This might be the best game I can remember seeing from Cutler. Every throw I can recall seeing has been on the money even though he's been pressured on 80+% of his throws.

[bulletsponge]

wtf kind of defense was that?

[DeToxRox]

I don't think I have ever seen an upback get called for a false start before.

[thesloppy]

Who is coaching that line of the Bears?

I've long marveled at the motley coaching crew Chicago has assembled. Their O-line coach is Mike Tice. Their D-Line coach is Rod Marinelli. Their O-coordinator is Mike Martz. Then you've got Lovie, runnin' thangs. Hott.

[Coffee Warlord]

Bears:
- Trade 2 first rounders for a top rate QB, a position you haven't been able to fill since forever. (See below of inability to identify/develop talent)
- Provide said QB with no offensive line.
- Provide said QB with sub-part receiving talent.
- Provide said QB with a offensive coordinator with a system that relies on quality line & receivers.
- Continue to give Lovie Smith votes of confidence, despite mountains of insane calls, undisciplined, often unprepared teams, and zero player accountability.
- Continually fail to identify and/or develop young talent.
- Have the smallest most butt ugly stadium in the 2nd largest market in the league, with one of the lower franchise values in the league.

Bears really need new faces, from the owners on down. For such a historic franchise in a major market, they are an embarrassment.

And don't get me started on this 'we're a defense and running team!' shit. This is a passing league, boys. Adapt or die.

[Crapshoot]

Jay Cutler is if anything, underrated. That line can't block anyone, and yet he stays in the pocket and makes his throws. The talk radio idiots who bashed him on "toughness" wouldn't last 20 min.

[Matthean]

And don't get me started on this 'we're a defense and running team!' shit. This is a passing league, boys. Adapt or die.

I don't mind the running aspect. Take away the two big plays from the Lions and this is a different game. SF, Atlanta, and GB are teams that have recently proven the use of a running game can help out. In a league that glorifies the QB, a running game can go a long ways towards helping him out.

[mckerney]

155 yards on 8 carries, not bad.

[Lathum]

won my fantasy game on that last play

[jbergey22]

Cutler showed a lot of toughness tonight. That Bears offensive line should be ashamed of themselves after that performance.

The Lions showed their big play ability tonight and their d-line was impressive to say the least. The biggest concern I would have if I were the lions or their fans for playoff time is not having a grind it out type of back in order to run clock.

[M GO BLUE!!!]

I kinda felt sorry for Cutler tonight. Kinda.

[Lathum]

The o-line is the worst I have ever seen

[kingfc22]

Should be an interesting matchup next week as the Lions D-line will not see only 5 blockers on every play as Harbaugh has shown the tendency to use 2 TE and 3 TE sets consistently which should slow down this DET pass rush.

Also, the Niners defense has been one part of the team that actually that has been good the past few years but most people don't know that since the team has been led by complete idiots. With that said, hopefully they can find a way to keep Megatron out of the end zone as could be on place for the rare WR MVP season.

[M GO BLUE!!!]

...With that said, hopefully they can find a way to get Megatron three TD's as his two per game average was skewed by da Bears this week.

Fixed it fer ya.

[kingfc22]

Fixed it fer ya.

:D

Excitement for a Lions/49ers game? Looks like the Mayans may have been off by a year.

[bhlloy]

The o-line is the worst I have ever seen

I don't think this is hyperbole. How can there not be somebody sitting at home eating cheezits who is not a better NFL tackle than Omeyali. Holy shit, I bet you could watch any college game in the country and find a better tackle. Winston Justice watched that performance tonight and thought "damn, he got lit up on Monday night"

[RainMaker]

I've said it for years. Lovie Smith has no business being a head coach.
I don't have a huge problem with Lovie as a head coach. I think he handles players well for the most part which is a large part of being a head coach. I think part of the problem is the Bears have been doing the same thing for years now defensively and teams have started to figure it out. By the 6th time you've seen the Tampa 2, you know how to beat it, know how to block it, and so on.

My biggest problem with him is he doesn't play toward his personnel. If he has a shitty d-line, he won't blitz to compensate. And I think they wasted Tillman's prime in that system when he should have been matched up on man coverage with top receivers much more often.

I still have no clue how Mike Martz got this job and keeps it. The offense is almost a decade behind the times now and he doesn't have anywhere near the personnel to run it efficiently (which I still contend wouldn't work in this era). You can't audible in his system. My high school team audibled. We've also found the reason why no one was out looking to hire Mike Tice all these years. I've never seen an O-line that ill-prepared for an NFL game in my life.

While I think the league has passed most of the coaching staff by, Jerry Angelo is the culprit here. He has not drafted a legit NFL starter in 3 consecutive drafts. Matt Forte and Greg Olsen are the only good players that have been drafted in the past 5 years. It's a team that aged out on defense and offense without any suitable replacements in place. They literally just watched their offensive line deteriorate without making much effort to improve it since the Super Bowl year.

I'm really worried about the future of the team as Urlacher, Briggs, Peppers, and Tillman age. They have no youth on this team worth a lick outside of Matt Forte. If a couple injuries hit those guys, this could be a 3-4 win team for a couple years. We're already seeing it happen as Peppers is a shell of his former self.

I was initially mad after the game, but I'm sort of resolved to the fact that this just isn't a good football team. I shouldn't be expecting a trip to the playoffs. The sad thing is we don't have any young players with potential to watch develop. Kind of depressing to think about. But it was a nice run over the last half decade or so under Lovie and I guess will watch it go down in flames until they bring in a real GM and a coaching staff prepared for this era of football.

[RainMaker]

The o-line is the worst I have ever seen
I said this during the game and actually meant it. I honestly can't remember ever seeing a worse o-line in the NFL. I'm happy to hear that we let Olin Kreutz leave because we wouldn't pay him $5 million (offered him $4 million) for one season while the team sits almost $20 million under the cap.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Ford Field was out of control last night. One of the loudest stadiums I've ever been at. Great crowd. Great atmosphere. The first quarter was incredibly sloppy.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Matt Forte and Greg Olsen are the only good players that have been drafted in the past 5 years.

I'd have to think Johnny Knox probably qualifies as "good", Pro Bowler & all (even if it was as a replacement pick).

That makes three out of forty.

[Coffee Warlord]

I'd have to think Johnny Knox probably qualifies as "good", Pro Bowler & all (even if it was as a replacement pick).

That makes three out of forty.

He made the Pro Bowl as return man, I might point out. Something they wisely put Hester back to doing the majority of the time.

Johnny Knox still has far, far too many drops & missed routes to qualify as a good receiver.

[stevew]

I said this during the game and actually meant it. I honestly can't remember ever seeing a worse o-line in the NFL. I'm happy to hear that we let Olin Kreutz leave because we wouldn't pay him $5 million (offered him $4 million) for one season while the team sits almost $20 million under the cap.

Watch a Steelers game sometime. We started a LT this week who was home the first 4 weeks of the season. I know Starks has history with the team, but he was too fat after the lockout and got cut.

[Coffee Warlord]

I'd still take the Steeler's O-Line over the Bears.

Through 5 Weeks:
Bears - 18 sacks, 31 hits, and god knows how many hurries, false starts, and holding penalties
Steelers - 15 sacks, 25 hits

Bears are also 30th in the league in penalties. I'm sure a major chunk of those are due to the line.

[JediKooter]

If the that dude Williams on the Bears O-line still has job by the end of the day today, I would be shocked. An orange cone could have done a better job protecting Cutler's left side.