NFL Wildcard Thread

[panerd]

Well it looks like I avoided a major "You are addicted to sports" fallout with my girlfriend this coming Sat night with the Bengals landing the day game allowing me to make it to her friends "super significant" 33rd birthday party that night.

Predictions:
Bengals over Texans. Is Delhomme starting this game or was Yates just scratched because the game has no meaning? (Yes I am choosing to ignore the Bengals were 0-7 against playoff teams this season)
Saints over Lions. Being a Bengals fan I would love to see the Lions make a run but I just don't think they have enough.
Falcons over Giants. The Giants just aren't that good.
Broncos over Steelers. Mendenhall may have torn his ACL, its Tebow time!

[Passacaglia]

Yeah, I never understood the Saturday night playoff game (which of course the Lions are playing in), while the early afternoon timeslot lies vacant.

[Grover]

Well it looks like I avoided a major "You are addicted to sports" fallout with my girlfriend this coming Sat night with the Bengals landing the day game allowing me to make it to her friends "super significant" 33rd birthday party that night.


You only turn 33 once!

Predictions:
Bengals over Texans - Never should have lost to Houston in Cincy. Probably wouldn't had PacMan not been called for pass interference in the end zone with two seconds on the clock.

Saints over Lions - No way the Saints lose at home. No way in hell.

Giants over Falcons - I think the Giants are going to ride a hot hand deep into the playoffs. Matty Ice doesn't inspire confidence. Against the Saints he had 25 completions that were thrown less than 10 yards.

Steelers over Broncos - James Harrison will get fined for a hit on Tim Tebow.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I don't think there are too many Lions fans out there who will have to avoid a major "You are addicted to sports" fallout this Saturday night. First playoff appearance in 12 years pretty much gives Lions fans carte blanche that night.

Sadly, I don't see the Lions getting their first road playoff victory (and their second playoff victory overall) in the last 55 years on Saturday.

Saints have been a machine the last few weeks and have been unbeatable at home this year. The Lions defense hasn't played well in several weeks. They have given up a ton of yards and points. They are likely to be shredded by Brees and Co. The Lions offense isn't good enough to keep up. They are prone to mistakes and disappearing at times.

Also, other than the Monday night game against the Bears, the Lions have folded under pressure. Some of their worst and most undisciplined games have come under the national spotlight, Thanksgiving against Green Bay and Sunday Night against New Orleans.

The Lions also take far too many penalties which will, and has, hurt them.

Despite not having too much hope of winning, it's still great to finally have the Lions with a winning record and in the playoffs. It's been ages. Hopefully, this is just the first step and the Lions can build on it.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Yeah, I never understood the Saturday night playoff game (which of course the Lions are playing in), while the early afternoon timeslot lies vacant.

Monies.

Prime time game = more viewers.

More viewers = more ad revenue.

[bronconick]

Yeah, I've got tickets for #1 UMD @ #8 Western Michigan in hockey this Friday and Saturday nights. Thanks, NBC. Asses. Can't show the Tebus vs. Pittsburgh game instead.

[PurdueBrad]

Should be an interesting weekend, although I'm not sure the games will be all that great.

Predictions:
Steelers over Denver- Even with Mendenhall down (and as a Steelers fan I will say he's actually had a fairly disappointing year) the offense will continue to do what it has done as of late: score in the upper teens and lower twenties. The defense will hold Denver to two field goals but I do worry greatly about Harrison throwing a bad hit on a potential Tebow scramble that would get him nixed the next week. I'll also be curious to see whether or not we take Ryan Clark with us given the sickle cell issue. I see a pretty easy win though, 20-6.

Bengals over the Texans- The Texans would be dangerous if they weren't down to their third (or fourth) string quarterback and Arian Foster is great but I think Cincy goes after them and pulls it off. I agree with Grover that Cincy should've beat them earlier anyway. I figure a 24-17 win.

Giants over the Falcons- This game is kind of a blah game for me. Very little interest in either team and I feel like either team is just fodder for the next round. The Giants do feel like they may have a bit of magic about them and that defense can pull out some big plays which I don't see with Atlanta. Plus Cruz is as electric a receiver there is right now. 27-13 Giants.

Saints over the Lions- This could be such a great game but I don't think it'll pan out. The Saints have a tremendous edge in the running game and short pass game (Sproles looks like an absolute beast indoors on turf) that I think the Saints take a huge early advantage and don't really look back. The Lions will still get some points and look good at times but it won't be enough. Plus, I don't know if anyone else has noticed this, but the Lions look terrible late in the fourth quarter of a lot of their close games. They seem to have little get-up and go or organization to their two minute drill. Won't matter though as New Orleans wins 42-27.

[BillJasper]

Pittsburgh
Cincinnati
New Orleans
NY Giants

The two AFC road teams and the two NFC home teams. :lol:

[Passacaglia]

Monies.

Prime time game = more viewers.

More viewers = more ad revenue.

I'm not sure I believe that a prime time game means more viewers.

[Draft Dodger]

all I know is that, as a Pats fan, I'll be rooting hard for the Bengals and the Broncos, because if either of those teams win, New England won't have to play the Steelers the following week. I just don't think they can beat the Steelers.

[Suburban Rhythm]

all I know is that, as a Pats fan, I'll be rooting hard for the Bengals and the Broncos, because if either of those teams win, New England won't have to play the Steelers the following week. I just don't think they can beat the Steelers.

Speaking for Steeler fans, unless Ben makes a miracle recovery (hopefully he's cured when he and Tebow shake hands), I don't see it.

The only hope would be for Harrison, who has looked very average the last few games, and Woodley, who has played about 1 quarter in the last 6 games, to be all over Brady. Keep the game close enough to allow Wallace and Brown to make enough plays, and Redman run out the clock.

Call me cautiously pessimistic on the Steelers chances at NE, with the Patriots on a week's rest.

[kingfc22]

As a Niners fan, I will be openly rooting for Detroit as I'd much rather have them face ATL or NYG who they already beat at home.

[RendeR]

What I WANT to happen:

Bengals
Broncos
Saints
Falcons



What I EXPECT to happen:

Bengals
Steelers
Saints
Giants

[Suburban Rhythm]

Tomlin just said during weekly presser, Ryan Clark will not play Sunday.

[Grover]

With the Bengals in the playoffs, I decided to write a guest feature on a friend's blog about the team since I've been a fan. Note: I didn't include the history of arrests or Chris Henry's death... the article would have been much longer if that had been the case. It's more a chronicling of the team's poor draft choices year after year that kept the team in such a stagnant place at the bottom of the AFC.

A Totally Biased Tale of Woe: The Suffering of a Bengals Fan « Totally Biased (http://the24thhour.wordpress.com/2012/01/03/a-tale-of-woe-the-suffering-of-a-bengals-fan/)

[JPhillips]

I saw that something will happen during the Saturday games that's never happened before in the Super Bowl era. Any guesses?

[Honolulu_Blue]

I saw that something will happen during the Saturday games that's never happened before in the Super Bowl era. Any guesses?

The Houston Texans playing in a playoff game?

The Lions playing the Saints in a playoff game?

[fpres]

My guesses:

Cincinnati over Houston -- 3-game slide and too many injuries to key personnel... Kubiak says that Yates will start despite separating his left shoulder two days ago. Frankly, I'd feel a lot better about the Texans' chances if Delhomme got the starting nod. Arian Foster should be good to go, but the O-line has been showing some signs of wear over the past couple of weeks. If Houston is to pull this out, it's going to have to be the result of a monumental defensive performance. Regardless of the outcome, it's great to have some playoff football to get excited about in Houston. :D

Just spitballing the rest of the games...
-- Saints over Lions
-- Giants over Falcons
-- Steelers over Broncos

[Pumpy Tudors]

I saw that something will happen during the Saturday games that's never happened before in the Super Bowl era. Any guesses?
My pimp is going to give me a rebate?

[JediKooter]

Even though the Chargers didn't make the playoffs, I'm actually looking forward to the start of the playoffs this weekend.

[JPhillips]

Answer: Two rookie quarterbacks facing each other in a playoff game (Dalton/Yates).

[Butter]

As an actual Bengals fan, I'm not sure where all this optimism is coming from. The Bengals couldn't beat the Yates-led Texans 4 weeks ago, I'm not sure how all of a sudden we're picked to beat them on the road.

Plus, if we thought Ray Rice was hard to defend against, just wait until Ben Tate and Arian Foster get going.

I would love to be wrong, and hope I am. But I see yet another playoff loss.

[RendeR]

The optimism stems from the fact that teh Texans are on a spiral downward. They've been playing worse and worse every week. The O-line is looking horrible and dinged up, their star players are also beat up and Yates required not 1 or 2 but 3 MAJOR fluffs by the Bengals defense to beat us the last time.

Until the Texans actually win this game they are going to be the underdog, at home.

There is also something to be said for seeing some growth in our own players. Yes we lost to all but 1 team with a winning record this season, but the quality of those losses must be taken into account. only 2 losses all year by 10 points or more means we were in every game, going toe to toe with every team that is considered "elite" right now.

The confidence stems from the fact that even if we do lose, we've got a good team here and we're hopeful for the future =)

[Butter]

I agree with your last line, but other than that we went 0-fer against the good teams on our schedule this year. Don't get me wrong, I want them to win but I am far from expecting it like many of my fellow Bengal fans here.

[Grover]

I agree with your last line, but other than that we went 0-fer against the good teams on our schedule this year. Don't get me wrong, I want them to win but I am far from expecting it like many of my fellow Bengal fans here.

Six of our seven losses were by a combined 30 points. The only time we looked really bad against a team with a winning record was the second meeting with Pittsburgh.

We pretty much gift wrapped that win to the Texans as well. Letting Yates get that big 3rd down run and then PacMan's pass interference which pretty much led to the touchdown. Also that fumble the defense forced but refused to just fall on the ball, giving the Texans the ball back, I believe the ended up driving down for points after that as well.

[Honolulu_Blue]

If I were the Bengals, I would be feeling pretty good about my chances. The Texans haven't played that well of late and are decimated by injuries.

Is Andre Johnson still out?

[Grover]

If I were the Bengals, I would be feeling pretty good about my chances. The Texans haven't played that well of late and are decimated by injuries.

Is Andre Johnson still out?

Johnson is going to play between 45-50 plays per Kubiak.

[RendeR]

I certanly understand the restraint Butter, but I think my confidence comes directly from watching each game. In the past I'd be agreeing with you. I wouldn't expect much because the team didn't inspire my confidence.

Not so this season. I've actually been won over by this group of players. There is no grandstanding, there is no talk for teh sake of talk. This guys go out and work their asses off on every play. I've been impressed with the work ethic.

Have they had their moments where I wanted to scream? sure,but every team has those moments, even the great ones.

I want them to beat the Texans because I want them to have a shot at brady and his pretty boy offense. I expect them to play a tight, hard fought game against Houston because we play conservative football and we play tough hard nosed defense.

Do I EXPECT a win Saturday? yes. Why? Because I think this team "finally" expects to win every single week no matter who the opponent is.

[Rizon]

HOUSTON over the Bungles 17-14: These are the Bungles ... always will be. They would break the hearts of Ohioians, if Ohioians actually had hearts left to break. I see something like a last second FG miss or last second loss of some sort.

SAINTS over Detwoit Wittle Wions 45-10: The Wittle Wions are about as real as Sasquatch. I'd love to see them crushed and embarrassed.

GIANTS over Falcons 21-20: in the Sloppy Bowl of two sloppy ass teams. Manning bounces back from 3 picks to somehow pull off a 4th quarter miracle with 30 seconds left. This game probably has like 7 fumbles.

STEELERS over Tebows 35-21: Tebow throws 4 picks in the first 3 quarters, then Tebows the Tebows back with 3 4th Quarter Tebows to bring the Tebows within a couple scores of Tebowing the Steelers. But Omar Epps rallies his troops to stop Tebow from Tebowing.

[Honolulu_Blue]

SAINTS over Detwoit Wittle Wions 45-10: The Wittle Wions are about as real as Sasquatch. I'd love to see them crushed and embarrassed.

Dude, why'd you have to bring you mom into this? That poor elusive, hairy bitch...

Not cool, man. Not cool at all.


p.s. Knock it off.

[RendeR]

The last 2 posts are full of win.





(not for the Lions err...Wions.....)

[RendeR]

Question: What would be the single BIGGEST upset this weekend?

[B & B]

From a points perspective it would be Detroit.


Personally, think that Denver is the least likely underdog to win.

[Lathum]

GIANTS over Falcons 21-20: in the Sloppy Bowl of two sloppy ass teams. Manning bounces back from 3 picks to somehow pull off a 4th quarter miracle with 30 seconds left. This game probably has like 7 fumbles.


Not really sure where you are getting your analysis from. Atlanta ranked 8th with 21 turnovers and Giants middle of the pack with 21. They both are tied at tenth with 8 fumbles, so what you are saying is one of these teams will have half their total season output of fumbles in one game?

[Rizon]

so what you are saying is one of these teams will have half their total season output of fumbles in one game?

Exactly

[Suburban Rhythm]

Maurkice Pouncey out vs Denver.

Doug Legursky at center, which while he's not Pouncey, isn't the problem. The problem is the additional 40 yards in penalties by Legursky shifting to C, and Chris Kemoeatu starting at LG.

If he doesn't have a penalty the nullifies a 3rd down conversion in the first drive, I'll be shocked.

[DeToxRox]

@bobwojnowskiBob Wojnowski

So, the Saints wanna play it like this, huh? False fire alarm goes off in Lions hotel at 2:27 a.m. I know bec. it kept me awake for hours!

[Matthean]

Considering the game starts at 8pm, I think they will be fine.

[Grover]

Very excited, but a little bit nervous. I'm ready to get things under way.

[rowech]

Very excited, but a little bit nervous. I'm ready to get things under way.

I look at it this way...this team was already so much better than I ever dreamed they would be so any extra wins are just gravy. Would love to see them win a game but there's no illusions here about winning it all, let alone making the super bowl.

[claphamsa]

LETS GO BENGALS WOOO!!!!

[RendeR]

LETS GO BENGALS!!!!!!!!!!

[Grover]

I look at it this way...this team was already so much better than I ever dreamed they would be so any extra wins are just gravy. Would love to see them win a game but there's no illusions here about winning it all, let alone making the super bowl.

Agreed, I expected six wins at the very, very best. I've seen one Bengals playoff win since I've been a fan and I was 8 years old. I'm due and I want this.

[Julio Riddols]

Haha.. We're in full effect this afternoon.

[rowech]

Agreed, I expected six wins at the very, very best. I've seen one Bengals playoff win since I've been a fan and I was 8 years old. I'm due and I want this.

Luckily, I have 1981 and 1988 to remember but I was 5 and 12 at those points so it's been a long time as well.

[B & B]

Looking for Andre 3000 and the gang to TCB here. Nati is on house money already by being here with a rookie QB-WR combo.


Should be a great day/night of football.

[Julio Riddols]

Clete Blakeman is a football name.

[sterlingice]

Clete Blakeman is a football name.

Or from Space Mutiny (http://mst3krollfizzlebeef.ytmnd.com/)

SI

[sterlingice]

The "THE Ohio State University" thing is no less dumb the 50th time than the 1st

SI

[stevew]

Maurkice Pouncey out vs Denver.

Doug Legursky at center, which while he's not Pouncey, isn't the problem. The problem is the additional 40 yards in penalties by Legursky shifting to C, and Chris Kemoeatu starting at LG.

If he doesn't have a penalty the nullifies a 3rd down conversion in the first drive, I'll be shocked.

I hate Kemo so much.

[bhlloy]

I don't see how the Texans can win with Yates

[sterlingice]

By running. A lot

SI

[k0ruptr]

Go Bengals!

[Julio Riddols]

Nice start..

[Grover]

Who Dey!

Also, it's criminal that Geno Atkins didn't make the Pro Bowl, just throwing that out there.

[bhlloy]

By running. A lot

SI

Against the Bengals defense I don't see it. That front seven is very underrated

[sterlingice]

Against the Bengals defense I don't see it. That front seven is very underrated

Not saying they can keep it up all game but it worked pretty well there

SI

[EagleFan]

The "THE Ohio State University" thing is no less dumb the 50th time than the 1st

SI

I know, right? It's not like they were THE only 6-7 team that played a bowl game this year...

[bronconick]

EDSBS started a thing late this season where they're treating the "The" like a roaming trophy. Right now it's The Purdue University.

[EagleFan]

What's an EDSBS?

[EagleFan]

I see all his friends were sitting next to him...

[sterlingice]

What's an EDSBS?

(no clue)

SI

[Danny]

Edible Data Star Bronchitis System

[Matthean]

Guessing...

Every Day Should Be Saturday - Deserve Ain't Got Nothing To Do With It, Clemson. (http://www.everydayshouldbesaturday.com/)

[Danny]

Pretty amazing what Phillips did with the Texans Defense even with all of the injuries

[Jas_lov]

Marvin gonna lose another challenge and not be able to challenge anything for the rest of the game. All because he challenged that play earlier to move the ball up one foot.

[Grover]

I think this is a bad challenge and waste of a time out. Daniels clearly has the catch and is automatically down as a result.

[EagleFan]

Did they bring in Andy Ried to be in charge of their challenges?

[claphamsa]

they should hire me to say challenge no challenge...ill even do it for groupies!

[Jas_lov]

I think this is a bad challenge and waste of a time out. Daniels clearly has the catch and is automatically down as a result.

As bad as that was the first one was way worse. I get challenging yardage if it's the difference between a 4th down and a 1st down. Marvin challenged yardage when the difference was between 3rd and inches and a 1st down. And of course Dalton easily got the 1st the next play. Even if you win it it's a bad challenge that early.

[claphamsa]

that was a nice catch....

[Matthean]

I don't see how the Texans can win with Yates

Defense and a running game. Yes, those things still exist in the days of QBs with 5,000 yards passing.

[rowech]

The "THE Ohio State University" thing is no less dumb the 50th time than the 1st

SI

I don't think a lot of people understand that that's the official name of the school. It is literally named The Ohio State University and that's the way it shows up on their commercials, ads, etc.

[rowech]

These two teams are essentially mirror images of each other. If Texans score before Bengals do in the 2nd half, I think it's over as I don't think Bengals will be able to catchup two scores.

[bronconick]

I don't think a lot of people understand that that's the official name of the school. It is literally named The Ohio State University and that's the way it shows up on their commercials, ads, etc.


Yeah, but that's like those old ass Eastern Seaboard states that get huffy if you call them a State because they're a "Commonwealth"

The rest of us think you're being stupid and pretentious. :p

[rowech]

Yeah, but that's like those old ass Eastern Seaboard states that get huffy if you call them a State because they're a "Commonwealth"

The rest of us think you're being stupid and pretentious. :p

I'm from Ohio but hate OSU with a passion so I agree they're being pretentious. I just don't think a lot of people understand why they do it.

[sterlingice]

I don't think a lot of people understand that that's the official name of the school. It is literally named The Ohio State University and that's the way it shows up on their commercials, ads, etc.

I'm calling shenanigans on that explanation. A lot of "University of X" are actually "The University of Kansas" or "The University of Texas at Austin". However, it's not like Cedric Benson introduced himself as from "THEEEEE University of Texas"

SI

[Grover]

Not the most inspiring start to the second half.

[rowech]

I'm calling shenanigans on that explanation. A lot of "University of X" are actually "The University of Kansas" or "The University of Texas at Austin". However, it's not like Cedric Benson introduced himself as from "THEEEEE University of Texas"

SI

It's not shenanigans...it's just the way they are. It's like that with all of my friends. I started calling them TOSU or writing TOSU just to show them how stupid it was. Didn't work.

[Danny]

Big TD there, good to see Houston playing well

[Julio Riddols]

Its making plays versus not making plays so far, and making plays always wins.

[rowech]

Its making plays versus not making plays so far, and making plays always wins.

Also about some dumb coaching at the end of the first half. 10-10, on the road, and only one timeout because you blew the other two...just should have sat on it and run it out.

Disappointing to see this because I have a feeling it's going to turn into a blowout.

[sterlingice]

It's not shenanigans...it's just the way they are. It's like that with all of my friends. I started calling them TOSU or writing TOSU just to show them how stupid it was. Didn't work.

I'm not saying there might not be a grain of truth to that. But I'm saying that for the vast majority, it's not the actual motivation.

SI

[Danny]

DOnt think it will be a blowout, Houston doesn't have that kind of an offense

[Grover]

Adam Jones is terrible. Absolutely terrible. His repeated attempts to "tackle" Arian Foster and giving up the big TD to Johnson. I don't know if he was expecting safety help or if it was because he fell, but he needs to be taken off the field.

[JPhillips]

Story of the Bengals, close but not good enough.

Still excited about the future, but they need a running game and secondary help. Thanks Raiders for the help for the next two years!

[Grover]

4th and 3 here, I think you have to go for it...

[claphamsa]

Story of the Bengals, close but not good enough.

Still excited about the future, but they need a running game and secondary help. Thanks Raiders for the help for the next two years!

no giving up!

[claphamsa]

I'm not saying there might not be a grain of truth to that. But I'm saying that for the vast majority, it's not the actual motivation.

SI

where as the reality is... if you go to tOSU... you shouldn't really admit it!

[Izulde]

I thought Cincy had a real good chance to win this one. Looks like they're going down in flames, though.

[JPhillips]

no giving up!

I'm a man. I'm forty. I've lived through enough to know when to give up.

But this is the first time I've been excited about this team in maybe two decades.

[cuervo72]

I'm calling shenanigans on that explanation. A lot of "University of X" are actually "The University of Kansas" or "The University of Texas at Austin". However, it's not like Cedric Benson introduced himself as from "THEEEEE University of Texas"

SI

When I was at Hopkins, they seemed to make a big deal about "The" being an official part of the name (as if they didn't have enough trouble with the "Johns" part). I don't know if they've softened on that since.

[Julio Riddols]

Barring a turnover here, this is a basic Bengals meltdown. They should know that Houston will not be throwing the ball, but they won't be able to stop the run because they're beyond playing with technique and are now playing out of control instead.

[Grover]

I hope the team invests in a new return man next year as well. Tate has one good return every 4-5 games, the rest of the time he is borderline infuriating.

[claphamsa]

now we give up.

[rowech]

I'm a man. I'm forty. I've lived through enough to know when to give up.

But this is the first time I've been excited about this team in maybe two decades.

How could you have not been excited with what they had in 2005? I mean that team was a really good team, one that was capable of winning it all, and from that one knee on, it just fell apart.

Just get these flashes every so often and they never seem to form just right. I do agree these guys have a different feel to them...guys seem to want to do things right but if we lose Zimmer and/or Gruden then what happens?

Just never know...never know.

[rowech]

I hope the team invests in a new return man next year as well. Tate has one good return every 4-5 games, the rest of the time he is borderline infuriating.

I was just going to post this. He's one of the worst kick returners they've had in a long time in my opinion.

[Julio Riddols]

I'm just glad I won't have to second guess those horrible challenge attempts.

[JPhillips]

How could you have not been excited with what they had in 2005? I mean that team was a really good team, one that was capable of winning it all, and from that one knee on, it just fell apart.

Just get these flashes every so often and they never seem to form just right. I do agree these guys have a different feel to them...guys seem to want to do things right but if we lose Zimmer and/or Gruden then what happens?

Just never know...never know.

I'm thinking about excitement at the end of the season. That 2005 team was exciting, but I certainly didn't look forward to 2006.

edit: I'm not worried about Gruden. He's been good, but not exceptional. Zimmer would be a lot harder to replace.

[Buccaneer]

Story of the Bengals, close but not good enough.

Still excited about the future, but they need a running game and secondary help. Thanks Raiders for the help for the next two years!

That's right, they're getting good picks from Oakland.

[claphamsa]

I was just going to post this. He's one of the worst kick returners they've had in a long time in my opinion.

I seem to be more annoyed by watching Benson rush for 1 yard every time....

[sterlingice]

So, if you're Baltimore next week, you have no less than 8 guys in the box for anything but 3rd and super long, right?

SI

[claphamsa]

That was .... embarrassing!

[rowech]

I seem to be more annoyed by watching Benson rush for 1 yard every time....

Oh...Benson's toast. You can see it in every way. No spring in step at all. Secondary needs help too.

[Grover]

Tackling optional.

[cougarfreak]

Well shit. When do the Reds pitchers and catcher's report?

[Julio Riddols]

I'm hoping they use all their picks on G, RB, S and WR in this upcoming draft. I keep hearing the offensive line is good, but Andy Dalton is more of the reason why the sack numbers are low, and the run game has been terrible all year. I like the T's and C, but the guards are terrible.

[JPhillips]

Never noticed how much Wade Phillips looks like Newt Gingrich.

[JPhillips]

I'm hoping they use all their picks on G, RB, S and WR in this upcoming draft. I keep hearing the offensive line is good, but Andy Dalton is more of the reason why the sack numbers are low, and the run game has been terrible all year. I like the T's and C, but the guards are terrible.

They have to spend a high pick on a CB.

[claphamsa]

not sure if WR is a huge need... but G CB and RB sure are....

[Grover]

I'm hoping they use all their picks on G, RB, S and WR in this upcoming draft. I keep hearing the offensive line is good, but Andy Dalton is more of the reason why the sack numbers are low, and the run game has been terrible all year. I like the T's and C, but the guards are terrible.

Bobbie Williams is done. I really, really want DeCastro. He'd be the best guard the team had since Steinbach left.

And remember, Shipley will be back next year.

Get me DeCastro and a CB in the first round, maybe Polk or James in the second round, I'll be happy.

[claphamsa]

also, King is an awful announcer.

[Julio Riddols]

This next game ought to be a doozy though, pretty excited to see the fireworks.

[Grover]

also, King is an awful announcer.

King? It's Hammond and Mayock.

[rowech]

not sure if WR is a huge need... but G CB and RB sure are....

I think WR is a decent size need because they need someone to complement Gresham and Green. Simpson is okay but he's never going to be good enough to be a real option as a #2 WR. Too many drops, too many routes not run to completion, etc.

Same with Shipley, Caldwell, etc. They all make nice 3rd/slot WR options but none of them is a real #2 WR.

[claphamsa]

oh, i assumed the guy with the awful lisp was peter king as they were making fun of his mock draft...

[Julio Riddols]

Bobbie Williams is done. I really, really want DeCastro. He'd be the best guard the team had since Steinbach left.

And remember, Shipley will be back next year.

Get me DeCastro and a CB in the first round, maybe Polk or James in the second round, I'll be happy.

Change WR to CB then.. Those 4 positions and only those 4 positions. I would love to see those 3 things happen in our first 3 picks.

[Danny]

G and RB much more important. A good running game would open up the passing game a lot more and allow their talent to be more effective.

[claphamsa]

we need to dig out a legit backup QB as well.... maybe one available in FA.

and when you focus too much on certain positions you tank your depth. you can never have too many good players.

[JPhillips]

They have enough cap space to fill a need or two in FA if things have really changed in the front office.

[claphamsa]

They have enough cap space to fill a need or two in FA if things have really changed in the front office.

letting Joseph goes really hurts right about now....

[Grover]

G and RB much more important. A good running game would open up the passing game a lot more and allow their talent to be more effective.

I agree that a RB is important, but it's been proven quite often in the last few years that you can get a good RB just about anywhere in the draft. I'd say CB is a bigger need than RB because we don't know how good Hall is going to be when he gets back, Clements is going to be another year older (and slower) and Jennings/Jones are borderline NFL talent at the position. I'd dare say that the cupboard is pretty much bare at corner.

[Danny]

I was speaking specifically to the offensive side of the ball in regards to needing a WR

[Julio Riddols]

Mostly I am just hoping that Livings, Benson, Crocker and Adam Jones aren't back. Those 4 spots need to be upgraded before anything else is done.

[Grover]

Mostly I am just hoping that Livings, Benson, Crocker and Adam Jones aren't back. Those 4 spots need to be upgraded before anything else is done.

Are all four free agents? I know Benson is up.

[rowech]

Mostly I am just hoping that Livings, Benson, Crocker and Adam Jones aren't back. Those 4 spots need to be upgraded before anything else is done.

I would say you identified the exact guys I believe to be real issues.

[rowech]

I agree that a RB is important, but it's been proven quite often in the last few years that you can get a good RB just about anywhere in the draft. I'd say CB is a bigger need than RB because we don't know how good Hall is going to be when he gets back, Clements is going to be another year older (and slower) and Jennings/Jones are borderline NFL talent at the position. I'd dare say that the cupboard is pretty much bare at corner.

Hell...Arian Foster wasn't even drafted!

[cougarfreak]

I agree that a RB is important, but it's been proven quite often in the last few years that you can get a good RB just about anywhere in the draft. I'd say CB is a bigger need than RB because we don't know how good Hall is going to be when he gets back, Clements is going to be another year older (and slower) and Jennings/Jones are borderline NFL talent at the position. I'd dare say that the cupboard is pretty much bare at corner.

They have to take a corner in round 1, and then I suspect a G. I wouldn't be surprised at all to see them draft another corner in round 3 or 4. You also have to get a S. I think they are fine at WR, with Green, Simpson (if he avoids the pen), Shipley, heck even the emergence of Hawkins. Couple that with their solid TE, and they are good to go. I'll be interested to see what they do at RB. If they are going to stick with the west coast offense, Benson has to go. He can't catch. I'd love for them to give Oakland that 2nd rounder back in 2013 and get Micheal Bush.

[Julio Riddols]

Are all four free agents? I know Benson is up.

I know Jones and Benson are, I think Livings is, and Crocker I'm not sure about. I wouldn't mind if he was the 4th or 5th safety, but I'd rather him not be there at all.

Also echoing the need for a backup QB. Seneca Wallace would be nice.. Gradkowski is as emergency as emergency gets.

[Julio Riddols]

YAY FAITH HILL.

[Grover]

YAY FAITH HILL.

Amen.

[Julio Riddols]

You know I was being sarcastic? Its more the song than her but I want to punch the screen when it comes on.

[sterlingice]

Wait- Phelps and Ohno are amateur athletes since they're in the Olympics, right? How are they doing Subway commercials?

SI

[stevew]

So, if you're Baltimore next week, you have no less than 8 guys in the box for anything but 3rd and super long, right?

SI

The Texans lead the world in bullshit dump off plays that gain TDs >50 yards. So they better plan on tackling.

[stevew]

Wait- Phelps and Ohno are amateur athletes since they're in the Olympics, right? How are they doing Subway commercials?

SI

"Amateur"

[sterlingice]

Also, "The U" for Miami is almost as douchey as "THE Ohio State"

SI

[Grover]

You know I was being sarcastic? Its more the song than her but I want to punch the screen when it comes on.

I enjoy her body. And the song is better than that first season when they inexplicably used Pink.

[Julio Riddols]

I wish they would just use some old school Sam Spence + John Facenda style stuff with someone reading a monologue that pertains to the game over some orchestrated music.

[Julio Riddols]

Anyway, the fireworks has already begun. I hope this game is one of those haymaker vs haymaker games where the last team with the ball has a shot to win 45-41 or something.

[DougW]

Goooooo lions! !!

[stevew]

Is there some sort of rule about prime time broadcast TV requiring a theme? Hate Faith Hill, always the sign to make the final preparations for the game

[sabotai]

Is there some sort of rule about prime time broadcast TV requiring a theme? Hate Faith Hill, always the sign to make the final preparations for the game

I wonder how much she gets paid for that. Would fewer people watch Sunday Night Football if it didn't have a theme song?

[Danny]

Holy crap, 1 playoff win in 53 years. I didn't realize the Lions fans had it that bad

[EagleFan]

I don't see how the Texans can win with Yates

Just like that...

[ColtCrazy]

This game is just going to be incredible. Both offenses are clicking. I know neither team has a great defense, but the defenses just look helpless in this game. Barring a catastrophic turnover, last team with the ball probably wins.

[DougW]

WTF IS THAT ???

Where did that whistle come from ?? That could've been a defensive TD !

[Matthean]

WTF IS THAT ???

Where did that whistle come from ?? That could've been a defensive TD !

Initial thinking it was an incomplete.

[DougW]

On the flip though, if I'm a Saints fan, I'm pretty pissed that the Lions get a fumble recovery call AFTER the whistle.

[EagleFan]

I think that play was a fumble but based on that whistle the Saints should have still been given the ball.

[cuervo72]

I enjoy her body. And the song is better than that first season when they inexplicably used Pink.

Inexplicably? I think Pink is a lot closer to Joan Jett than Faith Hill is. Musically it made sense, if not from a marketing standpoint.

[Grover]

Inexplicably? I think Pink is a lot closer to Joan Jett than Faith Hill is. Musically it made sense, if not from a marketing standpoint.

I wouldn't consider either of them close to Joan Jett stylistically. If they wanted to go outside of the marketing factor, using someone like Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs would have made more sense. Of course, Faith Hill is nothing more than a marketing ploy.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Of course, Faith Hill is nothing more than a marketing ploy.

Well duh

;)

[EagleFan]

Is it my imagination or could Suh be called for hands to the face on almost every play?

[EagleFan]

We're in the middle of a good game, why are we debating the opening theme song? She's smoking hot, sit back and enjoy that show. Now that it's done, enjoy the game.

[MikeVic]

What a BS defensive penalty.

[DougW]

What a BS defensive penalty.

Aargh, it was. "I wish I played in this era, that'd been a vacation ..." haha.

Very happy with that half. Offense seemed to be in control of things when they had the ball, and imo, the Lions D looked better than the Saints D. Certainly in that last 'stand'.

Gooo Lions !!

[Danny]

Amazing how an NFL WR could not catch that ball.

[Izulde]

Saints got a huge ass gift on the 3rd down.

[Crapshoot]

That was a pretty awful call. Home cooking?

[Danny]

Refs killing the Lions today

[Crapshoot]

I feel for the Lions. The Saints are probably a better team anyway, but the refs have given them more than one play.

[Danny]

And Scwartz blew it by not challenging. Now the Saints score a TD.

[FBPro]

We're in the middle of a good game, why are we debating the opening theme song? She's smoking hot, sit back and enjoy that show. Now that it's done, enjoy the game.

CONCUR!!

[Danny]

They should just throw it to Megatron three straight times for 10+ yards. He probably catches at least one of the three for a first down every time

[Crapshoot]

Calvin Johnson is... amazing. No words.

[Danny]

That is the right call, not enough evidence to overturn the call

[Passacaglia]

If Brees puts his hands and the ball above the pile on 4th and inches, then pulls it back with his arms, should he still get credit for forward progress?

[Desnudo]

I don't know if he's a good coach, but Schwartz definitely gives all the signs of being a complete tool. Like Chet from weird science.

[DougW]

If Brees puts his hands and the ball above the pile on 4th and inches, then pulls it back with his arms, should he still get credit for forward progress?


Ya know, this game aside, I don't think that should be 'forward progress'. I mean, I understand - if a guy is running and the defense pushes him back 10 yards .. sure, forward progress .. but the hands forward, then pulls them back is the same to me as willingly running backwards.

[Crapshoot]

Are the Lions incapable of generating any pass rush at all? Brees has all day.

[Danny]

Why did the Lions lineman rush up the field instead of protecting the line of scrimmage

[DougW]

Saints running game, and 2 Eric Berry drops - keys to the game.

[Tigercat]

Ya know, this game aside, I don't think that should be 'forward progress'. I mean, I understand - if a guy is running and the defense pushes him back 10 yards .. sure, forward progress .. but the hands forward, then pulls them back is the same to me as willingly running backwards.

Normally, reaching forward like that, your arms will get some decent contact with defending players, so that will give you forward contact halted upon contact. But, in this case, if he touched the defenders with his extended arms he barely did so at all. Regardless, it looks like he landed cradling the ball right at the first down line. I wouldn't categorize that as one of the handful of calls that the Lions have had go against them tonight.

[Matthean]

Lions still need to invest in OL and DBs.

[Tigercat]

Lions could have gotten a penalty for contact to the head on Stafford INT it looks like. I don't think the lack of calls for Detroit is what is going to cost them the game, but it hasn't helped for sure.

Another thing that has hurt them: if you are going to play against a healthy Pierre Thomas, you better tackle well.

[Passacaglia]

Lions still need to invest in OL and DBs.

Yep -- maybe putting some DBs in on that last play would have helped.

[MizzouRah]

I'd like to see the Saints in the SB this season.. I just love watching Brees play.

[Matthean]

Yep -- maybe putting some DBs in on that last play would have helped.

The problems being, Detroit doesn't invest in DBs in the draft and has horrid luck with OL in the draft.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Inability to tackle and intercept doomed the Lions. Also didn't take advantage of their turnovers.

[Tigercat]

I think this Calvin Johnson might just pay some of his bills by playing football.

[MizzouRah]

I think this Calvin Johnson might just pay some of his bills by playing football.

He's definitely in a league by himself.

[Passacaglia]

The problems being, Detroit doesn't invest in DBs in the draft and has horrid luck with OL in the draft.

Yeah, but I'm willing to give them a pass, considering they've improved the DL, LBs, QB, RBs (when healthy) and WRs in the past few seasons. Just have to make DB and OL next.

[Scoobz0202]

He's definitely in a league by himself.

Yea. I see people saying he is definitely top five, probably top three. I don't think there is a probably about it. I've always felt he was the best in the league. He's just so damn good.

[Julio Riddols]

Green Bay / New Orleans NFC Championship game, please.

[ColtCrazy]

Green Bay / New Orleans NFC Championship game, please.


+1 Would almost even consider buying a scalped ticket for that game. Could be amazing.

[jbergey22]

Some NFL QBs look unstoppable while some look really bad. The gap between the top 5 and the bottom 5 qbs in the NFL is ridiculous.

[DougW]

Green Bay / New Orleans NFC Championship game, please.

Would be a great matchup.

[Matthean]

Saints doing the FU score?

[Ajaxab]

Green Bay / New Orleans NFC Championship game, please.

I actually hope not. I'm not a fan of the way the league has turned to become such a passing league. It's swung way too far over to favoring passing offenses. It's almost become a joke.

I hope the Niners can do something to buck the trend next week, but I'm not optimistic.

[jbergey22]

I actually hope not. I'm not a fan of the way the league has turned to become such a passing league. It's swung way too far over to favoring passing offenses. It's almost become a joke.

I hope the Niners can do something to buck the trend next week, but I'm not optimistic.

Brees seems to be unstoppable in dome stadiums. He seems simply outstanding outdoors. We will see.

[Matthean]

Brees seems to be unstoppable in dome stadiums. He seems simply outstanding outdoors. We will see.

Let's see how unstoppable he is playing during January in Lambeau.

[Mustang]

???

Didn't Brees take a knee with 4th and goal. Shouldn't the Lions have had the ball back with like 35 seconds left?

[Ajaxab]

Let's see how unstoppable he is playing during January in Lambeau.

Flynn and Stafford didn't have too much trouble the last time a game was played in January at Lambeau. ;)

[Matthean]

Flynn and Stafford didn't have too much trouble the last time a game was played in January at Lambeau. ;)

Weather was still decent. We are talking about a game that is two weeks away, and the real winter doesn't hit northern states until around mid January.

[Matthean]

I don't know if he's a good coach, but Schwartz definitely gives all the signs of being a complete tool. Like Chet from weird science.

All I'll say is he is a defensive based coach who has been with his team for three years and has given up 90 points in the last two game. For all of the DL talent they have, you can absolutely run on them.

[Grover]

???

Didn't Brees take a knee with 4th and goal. Shouldn't the Lions have had the ball back with like 35 seconds left?

Glad I'm not the only one who thought this.

[SackAttack]

???

Didn't Brees take a knee with 4th and goal. Shouldn't the Lions have had the ball back with like 35 seconds left?

I counted 3 kneeldowns. I thought it was 1st and goal before the first one?

[sterlingice]

I actually hope not. I'm not a fan of the way the league has turned to become such a passing league. It's swung way too far over to favoring passing offenses. It's almost become a joke

It's all cyclical. It was stupid in the early 2000s when everything was all "good defense stops good offenses" so you just need to be the Ravens with good D and a running game and a passing team couldn't do anything either. The league is best when there's balance. Defenses will adjust and it'll swing back again.

SI

[Mustang]

I counted 3 kneeldowns. I thought it was 1st and goal before the first one?

3 kneeldowns however, there was a run before the 2 minute warning.


1-12-DET 12 (2:44) C.Ivory left guard to DET 2 for 10 yards (N.Suh; K.Vanden Bosch).
Detroit Lions vs New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Superdome
Two-Minute Warning
2-2-DET 2 (2:00) D.Brees kneels to DET 3 for -1 yards.
3-3-DET 3 (1:20) D.Brees kneels to DET 4 for -1 yards.
4-4-DET 4 (:38) D.Brees kneels to DET 5 for -1 yards.

[sabotai]

1st and 12 at the 12?

EDIT: Ah, there was a penalty pushing it back to the 12.

[Matthean]

Ugh. I have a former co-worker on FB who when not talking about sports is actually a decent guy. When sports is involved, he's around Skip Bayless level. Needless to say he's going off about the refs and how classless the Saints are. He's stuck in sales, but he told me his dream job is to be a sport writer. The problem is he hardly writes about sports and his quality of writing is far from being on the level of a professional.

[Danny]

the problem is he hardly writes about sports and his quality of writing is far from being on the level of a professional.

Sounds like he could be very successful in the field.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Some NFL QBs look unstoppable while some look really bad. The gap between the top 5 and the bottom 5 qbs in the NFL is ridiculous.

Honestly, the gap between the top 3 (Rodgers, Brees, Brady) and #4 is pretty incredible as well.

[SackAttack]

Honestly, the gap between the top 3 (Rodgers, Brees, Brady) and #4 is pretty incredible as well.

How soon they forget, Peyton.

[Vince, Pt. II]

His stats this year were pretty bad :)

If he comes back and is healthy, he immediately joins them. He may never play again, and if so, he doesn't deserve to be in the conversation anymore.

[SackAttack]

His stats this year were pretty bad :)

If he comes back and is healthy, he immediately joins them. He may never play again, and if so, he doesn't deserve to be in the conversation anymore.

Hey, unlike the three you mentioned, he didn't toss a single interception!

[sabotai]

Doesn't help Peyton's case, though, that his completion percentage is RUNTIME ERROR: DIVIDE BY ZERO.

[sterlingice]

Doesn't help Peyton's case, though, that his completion percentage is RUNTIME ERROR: DIVIDE BY ZERO.

That just means he's infinitely accurate! :D

SI

[Matthean]

That just means he's infinitely accurate! :D

SI

So am I in my dreams. :lol:

[Grover]

Mostly I am just hoping that Livings, Benson, Crocker and Adam Jones aren't back. Those 4 spots need to be upgraded before anything else is done.

Found a list...

Exclusive rights
RB Cedric Peerman, LB Vincent Rey

Restricted
LS Clark Harris, DT Nick Hayden, FB Chris Pressley, LB Dan Skuta

Unrestricted
RB Cedric Benson, WR Andre Caldwell, OT Anthony Collins, DE Jonathan Fanene, CB Kelly Jennings, LB Brandon Johnson, CB Adam Jones, LB Manny Lawson, TE Donald Lee, OG Nate Livings, OG Mike McGlynn, S Reggie Nelson, K Mike Nugent, OT Dennis Roland, DE Frostee Rucker, TE Bo Scaife, WR Jerome Simpson, DT Pat Sims, OG Bobbie Williams

[Julio Riddols]

Found a list...

Exclusive rights
RB Cedric Peerman, LB Vincent Rey

Restricted
LS Clark Harris, DT Nick Hayden, FB Chris Pressley, LB Dan Skuta

Unrestricted
RB Cedric Benson, WR Andre Caldwell, OT Anthony Collins, DE Jonathan Fanene, CB Kelly Jennings, LB Brandon Johnson, CB Adam Jones, LB Manny Lawson, TE Donald Lee, OG Nate Livings, OG Mike McGlynn, S Reggie Nelson, K Mike Nugent, OT Dennis Roland, DE Frostee Rucker, TE Bo Scaife, WR Jerome Simpson, DT Pat Sims, OG Bobbie Williams

OT Anthony Collins, DE Jonathan Fanene, LB Manny Lawson, S Reggie Nelson, K Mike Nugent, WR Jerome Simpson, DT Pat Sims, and one of the TEs I hope they re-sign. Nelson and Lawson especially.

I think its weird looking back on the season, I don't think Keith Rivers played a down.

[JPhillips]

They need to keep one of Jones/Jennings IMO. I don't want them going into 2012 with one aging corner, one corner with a torn Achilles and a draft pick.

[Buccaneer]

The Saints had 167 rushing (36 rushing attempts) to go along with all that passing. That's less than 3:1 ratio, which to me is a good balanced attack...not a pass-happy one that some are critical about. The Lions had 380 passing with only 32 rushing.

[Grover]

The Saints had 167 rushing (36 rushing attempts) to go along with all that passing. That's less than 3:1 ratio, which to me is a good balanced attack...not a pass-happy one that some are critical about. The Lions had 380 passing with only 32 rushing.

Surprising on the Lions end, they were averaging almost 5 ypc in the first half.

[B & B]

It wouldnt be Wildcard weekend without an upset, outright.


Bible boy isnt gonna do it.




Thats leaves the Coons.



ATLANTA OUTRIGHT, and at least 3 pics of Eli making the 'dumb face'

[Grover]

Nice choice by the Giants people on Trombone Shorty for the National Anthem. Saw him open for Derek Trucks this summer. Guy is fantastic.

[MizzouRah]

I'd rather see an offensive game over defense, but that's me.

[tucker rocky]

I can see where this Atl/NYG game is going.

16-13 for whoever.

[Grover]

At least the game being boring matches Joe Buck being boring.

[Crapshoot]

Is this a punting contest?

[RendeR]

This game is distinctly disappointing after watching the saints/Lions last night.

[RendeR]

At least the game being boring matches Joe Buck being boring.


I'll take Joe buck anyday over those morons who did the Bengals game.

[Grover]

I'll take Joe buck anyday over those morons who did the Bengals game.

Hammond and Mayock were awful, but I can't stand Buck's deadpan.

[cuervo72]

Guess they want to ease us into tomorrow night.

(well, whoever's going to watch it anyway)

[tucker rocky]

Might be the only points in this mashup.

Braves 2
Mets 0

[sterlingice]

This game is distinctly disappointing after watching the saints/Lions last night.

If you average the two games, you have a standard scoring game :D

SI

[sterlingice]

Guess they want to ease us into tomorrow night.

(well, whoever's going to watch it anyway)

Uh, pass. If I wanted to see a replay of an ugly 9-6 game that was already played last year, I could start watching mlb.tv and pining for warmer weather.

EDIT: like tucker rocky already was

SI

[Doug5984]

Alright, just turned the game on- let's go Giants!?

(I think the Giants have a better shot of beating GB in GB and then hopefully the Saints could get NFC Champ game at home, if we take care of SF....that and I just don't like the Falcons)

[Ksyrup]

That was one of the most bizarre punt rolls I've seen in some time. The ball hit near the sideline, and spun back up the field along the out of bounds line for 10-15 yards.

[sabotai]

That was some piss poor time management by the Falcons at the end of the half. Ryan could have ran out of bounds but slides on one play. Falcons went into the half with 2 time outs on the board even though they got the ball at the 20 with a little over 1 minute left were moving the ball pretty well.

Not that I'm complaining. :)

[Vince, Pt. II]

I think it was more a trip than a slide.

[kingfc22]

Damn you Lions. I'd much, much, much rather have the Niners face either of these two teams.

[Crapshoot]

Damn you Lions. I'd much, much, much rather have the Niners face either of these two teams.

yup. saints look unstoppable right now.

[Lathum]

Bradshaw needs to stop stretching the ball for that extra yard, it is going to burn him at some point.

[Lathum]

You have got to be kidding me they didn't call PI on that

[ColtCrazy]

At least the Bengals had a little fight in them. This Falcons team is beyond bland. Giants looking solid though. I don't think they can beat the Packers, but they won't roll over on them either.

[sabotai]

You have got to be kidding me they didn't call PI on that

I do my best to keep an even head and not bitch and moan about the officials, even when they get something very wrong, but that one is testing my limits....

[sterlingice]

Can we say that both NFC teams that played yesterday are better than either team playing today?

SI

[EagleFan]

Can we say that both NFC teams that played yesterday are better than either team playing today?

SI

The Lions are at least better thugs and wannabe ganstas...

[Lathum]

Can we say that both NFC teams that played yesterday are better than either team playing today?

SI

Saints yes, Lions no.

[EagleFan]

Can't beieve I am saying this for the second week in a row but let's go Giants.

[Crapshoot]

The Lions are at least better thugs and wannabe ganstas...

Stop with this shit already. Thugs and gangstas? Why the dog whistles?

[Crapshoot]

Saints yes, Lions no.

Sounds about right. I figure the NFC ranking is something like this:

- Packers
- Saints / Niners
- Giants
- Lions
- Falcons

[kingfc22]

What a horrible spot if your a Giants fan.

Edit: Doesn't matter anyways as they stop them on 4th down.

[EagleFan]

What kind of stupid play call was that? Everyone in the stadium knew that was a sneak.

[Crapshoot]

What the heck is with the Falcons play calling? Why not reach the ball out a la Brees?

[Crapshoot]

Wow, the Falcons can't tackle, eh?

[Lathum]

NICKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[kingfc22]

Nice tackling....err lack thereof. I'm not sure if he was even touched.

[Grover]

Dirty Bird!