Week 13 NFL Thread

[Abe Sargent]

Jason Babin baby!

[Thomkal]

my beloved Cards QB situation is so bad that the Cards are starting the rookie QB who threw 4 INT's last week including two run back for TD's. Until Kevin Kolb comes back from his injury. Perhaps Cardinals coaching staff if you don't let him throw the ball 52 times like you did last week in his first ever NFL start, he'll do a little better? Especially when you have your starting RB back from injury? But hey they are playing the Jets so its a likely win. ;) Sadly though I think my prediction in Week 5 that my Cards won't win another game is still likely to come true. :(

[mckerney]

I heard the Packers put a bounty out on Christian Ponder, anyone who knocks him out of the game will be fined $20,000.

[Sun Tzu]

Looks like Kaep will be starting for the Niners from here on out.

I think this is a perfect example of what a talented young player can do, when he's had quality coaching and 1.5+ years of sitting on the bench to learn the system. Alex Smith, on the other hand, is a perfect example of what a talented player looks like when he's had arguably the worst coaching in the NFL, and zero time on the bench to learn a system.

Harsh.

[mckerney]

Jared Allen was fined $21,000 for his hit on Lance Louis, which is getting off easy for him. Probably deserved a suspension after that just for all the bitching he does claiming cheap shots that directed his way.

[Coffee Warlord]

I heard the Packers put a bounty out on Christian Ponder, anyone who knocks him out of the game will be fined $20,000.

I'S CAN READ GOOD

[Vince, Pt. II]

Hence the player being fined for knocking him out :)

[Coffee Warlord]

Ahhhh right. Read that wrong.

[Lathum]

Wouldn't it be more beneficial for the Packers to keep him in?

read it a little closer

[Sun Tzu]

Wouldn't it be more beneficial for the Packers to keep him in?

Read more better, again.

[stevew]

Some report came out that claimed Titus Young Sr was lining up incorrectly on the field and running incorrect routes cause he was pissed?

I can't ever recall a story coming out like this before. Seems like the lions should have cut him and blacklisted him across the league for that.

[Buccaneer]

He’s showed flashes of ability, but overall he’s been immature and ineffective.

Why are we seeing more of this?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Some report came out that claimed Titus Young Sr was lining up incorrectly on the field and running incorrect routes cause he was pissed?

I can't ever recall a story coming out like this before. Seems like the lions should have cut him and blacklisted him across the league for that.

I also heard that there was a play in which Scheffler was supposed to be the primary receiver. So, Titus lined up in Scheffler's spot and refused to leave it so that he'd be the primary recevier on the play.

Perhaps this explains what, at the time, was an inexplicable move by the Lions, the drafting of Ryan Broyles in the 2nd round.

[albionmoonlight]

Going against the best defense in the league (SF) and then having to go on the road on a short week to play a highly-motivated 10-1 division rival is tough. No doubt. But, man, Brees has been off his game the last two weeks.

And, since I now have nothing to root for fantasy-wise or real-life-favorite-team-wise, I can also be upset that Brees's pretty cool record of consecutive games with a touchdown pass has ended and that Tom Brady is about half-a-season behind him. Sigh.

I guess the lesson here is when the NFL tells you to stop your pay-for-performance program, you should not try to cover it up for three years instead of, you know, stopping it.

And, in terms of keeping interest in the games, I guess I'll jump on the Redskins's playoff bandwagon, solely because getting to watch RGIII is fun.

[molson]

I also heard that there was a play in which Scheffler was supposed to be the primary receiver. So, Titus lined up in Scheffler's spot and refused to leave it so that he'd be the primary recevier on the play.


That's an interesting career strategy, I might try this. On Monday I'm just going to go into my boss's office and start doing his job.

Anyway, I hope he never plays another down. It's annoying when fringe guys think they have an entitlement not just be in the league, but to call the shots .

[Julio Riddols]

I always thought it was weird he has the Sr. on the back of his jersey. Never seen that before.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I always thought it was weird he has the Sr. on the back of his jersey. Never seen that before.

Now Mikael Leshore does too!

It's a trend.

[stevew]

I hate the trend, but I'm secretly hoping for Roethlisberger Sr. to go on the back of his jersey now that Ben's wife had their baby.

[Matthean]

Rolando McClain of Oakland Raiders suspended two games - team source - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/8694231/rolando-mcclain-oakland-raiders-suspended-two-games-team-source)

You must really be screwing up if the Raiders are looking to dump you in under two years.

[Jacob Typer]

Football just isn't the same without Hank Williams singing the MNF song.



EDIT: I've missed it all season long

[stevew]

Aaron Curry got cut by the Raiders the other week ago. What a flame out.

[Julio Riddols]

Aaron Curry got cut by the Raiders the other week ago. What a flame out.

I have a feeling Rey Maualuga will suffer a similar fate.

[kingfc22]

Kaepernick continues to look good at QB

[MIJB#19]

NFL playoff scenarios for week 13

New England Patriots
clinch AFC East with win over Miami (will have hth + division record tie-breaker over the rest of the division)

Baltimore Ravens
clinch AFC North with win over Pittsburgh + Cincinnati loss at San Diego (will have hth + division record tie-breaker over the rest of the division)

Houston Texans
cannot clinch the AFC South yet (Indianapolis can still get division record tie-breaker)
clinch trip to the playoffs with win or tie at Tennessee (AFC North second ranked team will be 10 1/2 - 5 1/2 at best, Houston will have tie-breakers over either the 2nd or 3rd ranked team)
still clinch trip to the playoffs with loss + two or three from: Pittsburgh loss at Baltimore, Cincinnati loss at San Diego, New England win/tie vs Miami (Houston will have conference record tie-breaker over 3rd ranked AFC North team, which will be Pittsburgh or Cincinnati in this scenario)

Denver Broncos
clinch AFC West with win over Tampa Bay (have hth tie-breaker over San Diego)
clinch AFC West with tie vs Tampa Bay + San Diego loss/tie vs Cincinnati (have hth tie-breaker over San Diego)
still clinch AFC West with San Diego loss vs Cincinnati (have hth tie-breaker over San Diego, have common games tie-breaker over Oakland, can't end up tied with both San Diego and Oakland in this scenario)

Atlanta Falcons
clinch trip to the playoffs with Tampa Bay loss/tie at Denver + Seattle loss/tie at Chicago (the NFC North 3rd ranked team will be 10 1/2 - 5 1/2 at best due to GB-Minn hth games to be played)

[BlackJack]

Arizona offense is putrid. QB is the worst I've ever seen in an NFL game.

[kingfc22]

I see Cortland Finneginn's MO is to still play like a jackass

[Matthean]

Cleveland Browns team employee kills self at practice center - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/8701653/cleveland-browns-team-employee-kills-self-practice-center)

[mckerney]

Ponder still awful, AP still too stronk.

[Thomkal]

Arizona offense is putrid. QB is the worst I've ever seen in an NFL game.

He's the third string QB and a rookie in his second start in what was supposed to be a season he never saw the ball hopefully. Both teams are pretty pathetic offensively, but this is the second game in three weeks where the Cards defense came up big (vs ATL and 5 INT of Matt Ryan), and got next to nothing to show for it. :( I think Tebow is going to get a start when he comes back from his injury.

[Suicane75]

FEMA is offering disaster relief to anyone who has to watch the Jets/Cardinals game. Just send them your cable bill for a reimbursement. Counseling is also available.

[Thomkal]

FEMA is offering disaster relief to anyone who has to watch the Jets/Cardinals game. Just send them your cable bill for a reimbursement. Counseling is also available.

LOL-hey at least one of them scored finally-thanks to a fake punt for the Cards on what looked like the 10 yard line

[Jas_lov]

The Packers need to start going for it on 4th down inside opponent territory. Probably should have just thrown a hail mary at the end of the half as it had about as much chance of converting as Crosby did.

[Karlifornia]

I hate the trend, but I'm secretly hoping for Roethlisberger Sr. to go on the back of his jersey now that Ben's wife had their baby.

I just want to know what kind of woman would let that slob have sex with her

[mckerney]

Fuck Christian Ponder.

Peterson takes it into the redzone then Ponder lobs (the pass was more than 5 yards past the line of scrimmage, so he had to sky the ball to get it there) right to a Packers DB.

[kingfc22]

No Steven Jackson on 4th and 1. Thank you!

Now the Niners offense needs to make some plays.

[mckerney]

The Packers need to start going for it on 4th down inside opponent territory. Probably should have just thrown a hail mary at the end of the half as it had about as much chance of converting as Crosby did.

And they do lineup to go for it and the Vikings need to burn a timeout because apparently they're the only ones who didn't figure Green Bay would go for it.

[mckerney]

And then Crosby comes out and makes it after the TO.

[JPhillips]

This Jets/Cards game may be the worst professional football game I've seen, and as a Bengals fan I don't say that lightly.

I think the whole thing is an evil plan to get people in the NY area to buy Sunday ticket.

[kingfc22]

Sanchez benched...finally

[mckerney]

Peterson beats his man deep on a pass route and the ball is under thrown by about 10 yards. Nice.

[Jas_lov]

The Vikings should not be throwing on 1st down. AP is destroying the Packer D and they keep throwing.

[BlackJack]

He's the third string QB and a rookie in his second start in what was supposed to be a season he never saw the ball hopefully. Both teams are pretty pathetic offensively, but this is the second game in three weeks where the Cards defense came up big (vs ATL and 5 INT of Matt Ryan), and got next to nothing to show for it. :( I think Tebow is going to get a start when he comes back from his injury.

Skelton has to be better than this kid. I would be better.

[sovereignstar v2]

What is Jeff George doing these days?

[stevew]

Ponder is awful.

That phantom roughing that nullified the earlier INT was so bad.

[frnk55]

Sanchez benched...finally
:lol:
Wish I could see this game. Looks like the game of the year.:D

[mckerney]

End of the 3rd quarter, Ponder has only completed a pass on one drive. 5/13 for 36 yards and 2 picks. He better be on the bench in the 3rd.

That Peterson has managed to run for 200 yards with no threat of a passing game is amazing.

[rowech]

I have a feeling Rey Maualuga will suffer a similar fate.

He's played decently the last couple of weeks.

[Thomkal]

Skelton has to be better than this kid. I would be better.

You apparantly didn't see the game where Skelton got benched for the kid then. :) Can't wait till Kolb is healthy again

[Thomkal]

Alex Smith wouldn't have thrown that ball :)

[kingfc22]

Stupid play call by SF. Give the damn ball to Gore or Jacobs.

[cuervo72]

Cleveland Browns team employee kills self at practice center - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/8701653/cleveland-browns-team-employee-kills-self-practice-center)

He was despondent after realizing he'd mispainted the team's end-zones "BRONS."



(yeah....I'm a horrible person)

[bhlloy]

Terrible play call, terrible decision and Ted Ginn is a pussy

[Crapshoot]

Pussy is a little ridiculous, and that play is on Kaepernick.

[bhlloy]

Looks to me clearly like he should have recovered it and wanted no part of the physical stuff. And I'm sorry, but any play with an option in that game is absolutely moronic. But yes, the decision and the pitch is on Kaepernick

[kingfc22]

Pussy is a little ridiculous, and that play is on Kaepernick.

That play is on Roman. Can't make that play call.

[mckerney]

First completion for Ponder in about 40 minutes on a bad pass to Rudolph. No idea why he's still in the game.

[kingfc22]

And Kaepernick shows why he is playing. Huge run on a broken play.

[Crapshoot]

Looks to me clearly like he should have recovered it and wanted no part of the physical stuff. And I'm sorry, but any play with an option in that game is absolutely moronic. But yes, the decision and the pitch is on Kaepernick

Sorry, I never think calling a guy who gets repeatedly hit by 250 pounders running 4.5 40's is a "pussy" in any definition of the word. Pet peeve. I actually think Kingfc is right - I can't believe Roman called the option pitch at that time in that situation.

[bhlloy]

OK, can I say that he pussied out of that play then? Because that what it looks like to me

[Crapshoot]

And Walker just dropped a touchdown pass.

[MrBug708]

When you play a physical game, shying away from contact is never a good thing. Repeatedly or not

[kingfc22]

And Walker just dropped a touchdown pass.

All season he has been dropping balls.

[bhlloy]

Wow, this is some epically bad end of game execution here

[Karlifornia]

The 49ers don't deserve this win.

[kingfc22]

And this is coming down to Akers....

[Thomkal]

First completion for Ponder in about 40 minutes on a bad pass to Rudolph. No idea why he's still in the game.

who's the backup there?

[Crapshoot]

He ran out of bounds? Why?

[bhlloy]

... and he went out of bounds. WTF. Three kneel downs and the game is probably over

[mckerney]

who's the backup there?

Joe Webb.

[Thomkal]

Joe Webb.

Wow....might as well keep Ponder in. ;)

[kingfc22]

Helmet to helmet my ass. This crew has been awful all game.

[Crapshoot]

Damnit Goldston! This isn't JACKED UP - just a dumb, dumb play.

[mckerney]

Wow....might as well keep Ponder in. ;)

Not when he's on his 3rd sub 100 yard game. I'd rather see what Webb can do since Ponder clearly isn't an NFL QB. He's constantly facing 8 and 9 in the box and can't do anything. Spielman did make sure there was no one worth bringing in behind his boy though. Hope neither one is back next year.

[kingfc22]

Wow. He took 3 steps. How is that not a catch?

[Crapshoot]

And we're probably going to overtime again.... Kaepernick running out of bounds was just crazy silly.

[MrBug708]

Why was the lady in the rams jersey clapping on the missed FG earlier?

[MrBug708]

He had about another 10 yards on that

[bhlloy]

Unbelievable how many ways the 49ers have screwed this game up in the last 4 minutes

[kingfc22]

Unbelievable how many ways the 49ers have screwed this game up in the last 4 quarters

Fixed that for you

[Thomkal]

Uh Rex Ryan...the last thing you should be doing is smiling after that win.

[bhlloy]

And we're probably going to overtime again.... Kaepernick running out of bounds was just crazy silly.

Just as silly as the play call that had him running around right end to begin with and the pass with the backup TE as the primary two plays earlier. Why you don't just run up the middle three times and kick the 35 yarder is beyond me

[Crapshoot]

Just as silly as the play call that had him running around right end to begin with and the pass with the backup TE as the primary two plays earlier. Why you don't just run up the middle three times and kick the 35 yarder is beyond me

fair point.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Kansas City wins. Good for them.

[mauchow]

Unreal, Bears tie it after starting at 15 yd line with 19 seconds to go. A bomb to Marshall, then a run to center of field and 46 yarder for the tie...

[kingfc22]

That catch was bobbled on the sideline.

[larrymcg421]

Amazing play between Cutler and Marshall at the end of regulation.

[Crapshoot]

Who is Kaepernick throwing the ball to? Walker was wide open there!

[MrBug708]

CK is having a mini pressure meltdown here

[MrBug708]

That handoff is basically telling Colin that Harbaugh doesnt trust him to make a throw

[Crapshoot]

Alex Smith is looking good on the bench right now eh? :D Its amazing that the Rams (along with the Giants) are the one team that gives the 49ers absolute fits. But the Giants are a good team and the Rams are.... not.

[Thomkal]

<---rooting for SF and STL to tie again.

[kingfc22]

Can't go 3 and out here...

[kingfc22]

Niners still need another 10-15 yards the way Akers has been going lately

[Crapshoot]

And Akers messes it up again. I didn't understand the 49ers play calling on the 3 preceeding plays.

[kingfc22]

Fucking Akers

[kingfc22]

And Akers messes it up again. I didn't understand the 49ers play calling on the 3 preceeding plays.

Yep

[tucker rocky]

Another tie looming for SF/Rams?

[MIJB#19]

How funny would it be if the Rams and 49ers tie again. Would make it easier for the W-L columns, just add a win and a loss in both columns. :D
(edit: and get rids of that tie-column, obviously)

[cuervo72]

<---rooting for SF and STL to tie again.

Me too. :)

[Crapshoot]

Another tie looming for SF/Rams?

No, expect the Rams to win. the Niners playcalling and offense has been beyond pitiful. I don't understand, given how Akers has gone, you can play for a 50+ yard field goal and not try and do more.

[tucker rocky]

Does the "lemon law" apply for anybody that sat through the Arz/NYJ game?

[BlackJack]

Uh Rex Ryan...the last thing you should be doing is smiling after that win.

Exactly. Must've been thinking about burritos.

[EagleFan]

What a finish by the Colts!

[bulletsponge]

indy wins as time expires!

[frnk55]

OMG what a game for INDY!!!

[sabotai]

Holy crap! Great drive by Indy!

[General Mike]

pretty amazing drive by Luck to win it for the colts.

[RainMaker]

Unreal, Bears tie it after starting at 15 yd line with 19 seconds to go. A bomb to Marshall, then a run to center of field and 46 yarder for the tie...

Bears got too conservative offensively in that game. Cutler was on fire. Defense is trash.

[Bobble]

Now maybe the Lions fire Schwartz. Nah, who am I kidding. The Fords are too lenient for that...

[kingfc22]

Hoping for a miss...

[bhlloy]

No, expect the Rams to win. the Niners playcalling and offense has been beyond pitiful. I don't understand, given how Akers has gone, you can play for a 50+ yard field goal and not try and do more.

When they had an easy field goal and a chance to let the clock run out they played for an extra 20 yards and when they needed the extra 20 yards they played for the 50 yard field goal. Baffling

[Thomkal]

nice comeback by the Colts-Schwartz out in Detroit now?

[Thomkal]

ah too bad he made it

[Jughead Spock]

I couldn't watch, just saw the PBP... why were the Lions calling timeouts?

[larrymcg421]

Wow, Zuerlein hits it from 54 yards out and it looked like it would've been good from 64 at least.

[Matthean]

Now maybe the Lions fire Schwartz. Nah, who am I kidding. The Fords are too lenient for that...

It took them until going 0-16 before Millen was gone.

[bhlloy]

It's only a question of when Zeuerlein breaks the longest FG record, not if. Could have done it twice tonight if needed

[larrymcg421]

That final play call by Indy was terrific and I loved how Luck was running in there to try and throw a block.

[Bobble]

I couldn't watch, just saw the PBP... why were the Lions calling timeouts?

They called one to see the formation and give the D a rest. Is that what you mean?

[MizzouRah]

Oh baby, love beating the 49ers! Should have beaten them earlier too!

[tucker rocky]

Uh Rex Ryan...the last thing you should be doing is smiling after that win.

Exactly. Must've been thinking about burritos.

Kinky foot massages.

[Grover]

Kinky foot massages.

Foot massages don't mean shit.

[Matthean]

Probably happy he doesn't have to start Sanchez anymore.

[tucker rocky]

Emmanuel Sanders open with all kinds of room to run, yet fumbles it away. :lol:

[Suburban Rhythm]

Emmanuel Sanders open with all kinds of room to run, yet fumbles it away. :lol:

My favorite part was Nantz and his praise on the turnover.

"And recovered by...who else...Ed Reed!"

Good job being 40 yards downfield and nowhere near the ball...until its booted 20 yards towards you.

[tucker rocky]

Ed Reed promptly INT's the Steelers threat.

[tucker rocky]

Itsn't it almost time for Norv Turner to give away this game, that SD is leading?

[mckerney]

Man it is bad when I'm watching the Steelers and think, "If only Charlie Batch had been playing for the Vikings today they could have won."

[Grover]

Itsn't it almost time for Norv Turner to give away this game, that SD is leading?

Yes, please.

edit: I'd say Norv's right on schedule now.

[Buccaneer]

Itsn't it almost time for Norv Turner to give away this game, that SD is leading?

Right on cue. :lol:

[EagleFan]

That was an extremely stupid penalty.

[stevew]

Lol...eat a dick Ravens

[frnk55]

Browns win!!!:)

[Drake]

After thinking about it a bit, I'd pay good money to see one of three things happen to Schiano/Tampa Bay during a victory formation:

1. A TB player gets seriously injured because the winning team's offensive line knows what's coming and decides to play dirty -- taking out key personnel during TB's (unlikely) playoff hunt. (Not optimal, since it's not the player's fault the coach is an asshat.)
2. TB lines up in the victory formation, gets bull rushed, fumbles the ball and loses the game on a fumble return for a touchdown. (Not likely, because TB doesn't get to got into the victory formation very often.)
3. An offensive line coach tackle Schiano during the post-game handshake and put him on the ground. (I mean, hey, if the tradition and safety of the game doesn't apply for the players, why should it apply to the coaches? If you really want to put players at risk, man up and put yourself at risk.)

Unfortunately, #1 is the most likely thing to happen.

I'd love to hear what Manning had to say to Schiano after the game during their handshake. Having seen hundreds of Manning post-game greetings over the years, that one looked awfully stiff and formal. I'm hoping it was something along the lines of "Go fuck yourself, rookie."
Unfortunately

[bulletsponge]

SD completes their "Turnering" of the game

[Buccaneer]

SD completes their "Turnering" of the game

Got to be the final nail. Hopefully it'll bring down AJ Smith as well.

[rowech]

Bengals couldn't catch a break with the Ravens losing. The loss to the Dolphins is looming bigger and bigger.

[Grover]

Bengals couldn't catch a break with the Ravens losing. The loss to the Dolphins is looming bigger and bigger.

Indy's last second win certainly didn't help the cause either.

[rowech]

Indy's last second win certainly didn't help the cause either.

You're right.

[Julio Riddols]

It was nice to see the Bengals win a game where they didn't play well at all. Normally they would get blown out in games like this, but they kept their heads down and eventually got things done. Sure, it was Norv Turner and the Chargers, but I don't think a Bengals team could have overcome so many mistakes a few years ago.

[Julio Riddols]

Also, kinda wanna know why Sanu was inactive in favor of Marvin Jones, who most likely cost the Bengals points when he dropped a perfect pass leading directly to a pick.

EDIT: Never mind, guess Sanu hurt his foot. Lame.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Also, kinda wanna know why Sanu was inactive in favor of Marvin Jones, who most likely cost the Bengals points when he dropped a perfect pass leading directly to a pick.

Didn't Sanu get injured? Broken foot I'm thinking...

[cougarfreak]

Sanu is out for the year with a stress fracture. I'd say the loss to Cleveland sucks more than the one to Miami.

[BillJasper]

Is Joe Flacco still elite? :lol:

[bulletsponge]

watch the boys lay a turd this game.

[Matthean]

watch the boys lay a turd this game.

I think the question is who lays the bigger one.

[Scoobz0202]

watch the boys lay a turd this game.

Romo just doesn't have "it."

[gstelmack]

My favorite part was Nantz and his praise on the turnover.

"And recovered by...who else...Ed Reed!"

Good job being 40 yards downfield and nowhere near the ball...until its booted 20 yards towards you.

Not nearly as bad as Rich Eisen (I think it was) and crew on NBC's Sunday Night in America with their "32 seconds isn't enough time - unless you fail to cover Brandon Marshall!", then show the defender jumping with Marshall for the ball. Morons.

[Jas_lov]

I'm guessing CBS protected Pitt-Baltimore. Packers-Vikings wasn't flexed because then the Packers would be on SNF 3 weeks in a row, although they could have flexed the Packers out next week. Denver-TB or Seattle-Chicago couldn't have been flexed this week? MNF has better matchups this week and next than SNF.

[cuervo72]

It's still the Cowboys and still a division game though.

(Have the Cowboys ever been flexed out? Wonder if that would piss Jerrah off.)

[Desnudo]

Romo just doesn't have "it."

Being confident and good, yes

[Scoobz0202]

There's that glorious Dallas red zone offense.

[Scoobz0202]

Cullen Jenkins with a snapped ankle that magically heals

[EagleFan]

Bryce Brown!!!

[cuervo72]

Grr, Witten.

[Buccaneer]

I was wondering what Sanchez was doing with that clipboard. Luckily, we have been able to find out:

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/64680_10151279546681100_375817490_n.jpg

[MrBug708]

haha...that just happened

[Julio Riddols]

Wow, Bryce Brown, huh?

[Bigsmooth]

Now that's a sweet back door cover...

[Suburban Rhythm]

John Harbaugh, Mike Tomlin share awkward handshake after huge Steelers win (http://www.usatoday.com/story/gameon/2012/12/02/tomlin-harbaugh-testy-handshake/1741585/)

[Butter]

Bengals couldn't catch a break with the Ravens losing. The loss to the Dolphins is looming bigger and bigger.

If the Bengals can't win their next 2 and at least get a split in the final 2 (@ Steelers, v. Ravens), they're not going to the playoffs anyway. And don't deserve to. It really comes down to beating the Steelers and Ravens in games that matter.... like they did a couple of years ago when they ran the division.

[RedKingGold]

No, expect the Rams to win. the Niners playcalling and offense has been beyond pitiful. I don't understand, given how Akers has gone, you can play for a 50+ yard field goal and not try and do more.

This. Hate to say it, but Harbaugh and his staff got outcoached yesterday. Running a risky toss play on third down, the play calling and execution after the Kaepernick run, and relying on Akers, who has some sort of injury, to kick a 50-yarder is asinine.

Hopefully, this game will serve as the proverbial kick-in-the-head a team needs before going on a championship run.

[JPhillips]

If the Bengals can't win their next 2 and at least get a split in the final 2 (@ Steelers, v. Ravens), they're not going to the playoffs anyway. And don't deserve to. It really comes down to beating the Steelers and Ravens in games that matter.... like they did a couple of years ago when they ran the division.

I was counting on the Ravens having nothing to play for in week 17. I'm not sure that will be true. I think 9-7 and out by one game is the most likely outcome.

[BillJasper]

The hilarity in Philadelphia continues! Jim Washburn fired.

I can see Reid in his meeting with Loria now...

Reid - "We need to write off this year. It's not fair to fire me after I lost my defensive coordinator, defensive line coach and star defensive lineman. Plus, I was forced to start a rookie quarterback for part of the year."

Loria - "Get out."

:lol:

[Desnudo]

I was counting on the Ravens having nothing to play for in week 17. I'm not sure that will be true. I think 9-7 and out by one game is the most likely outcome.

The ravens will likely be fighting for either the 1 or 2 seed. I think anything is possible at this point, but the Bengals have a decent chance as Indy has to play Houston twice and has been punching above weight all season. And they play the steelers once more.

[Suburban Rhythm]

The ravens will likely be fighting for either the 1 or 2 seed. I think anything is possible at this point, but the Bengals have a decent chance as Indy has to play Houston twice and has been punching above weight all season. And they play the steelers once more.

I don't think Baltimore has any shot at the 1 seed. Two losses back and lost to Houston H2H.

At best, they're fighting for the 2 seed.

[JPhillips]

I don't think Baltimore has any shot at the 1 seed. Two losses back and lost to Houston H2H.

At best, they're fighting for the 2 seed.

Yeah, I think they are going to be fighting for a bye week which is plenty of motivation to play all out. I was hoping they'd have the bye wrapped and no chance at the one seed.

[Suburban Rhythm]

http://content.clearchannel.com/cc-common/mlib/1734/12/1734_1354540248.gif

[bhlloy]

I love the guy in the white hat, who seems to be thinking "In my day, there was no crying on a football field" and then walks off disgusted

[Logan]

Kinda looks like Tom Berenger.

[Sun Tzu]

Didn't take long for Kaep to single-handedly lose a game for the 49ers. Ouch.

[Glengoyne]

OK so I missed the Niners and the Rams yesterday. How bad was it for Kaepernick and are we now looking at Harbaugh going back to Smith?

[gstelmack]

Didn't take long for Kaep to single-handedly lose a game for the 49ers. Ouch.

That was the play call. Why get that fancy with that lead, at that time, in that end of the field?

[JPhillips]

The ravens will likely be fighting for either the 1 or 2 seed. I think anything is possible at this point, but the Bengals have a decent chance as Indy has to play Houston twice and has been punching above weight all season. And they play the steelers once more.

But one of those Indy/Houston matchups is week 17 when the Texans will almost certainly be playing all backups.

[spleen1015]

But one of those Indy/Houston matchups is week 17 when the Texans will almost certainly be playing all backups.

Houston could very easily lose to New England next week, the Colts the week after that and then Week 17 will be for the division. :D

[bhlloy]

Don't forget that Kaepernick single handedly got them back in front, and if the play call had been run up the middle three times like it should have been the 49ers would have walked out of there with the win. Other than the pitch (terrible play call) and running out of bounds (terrible play call) I thought he was fine. I'd be far more concerned about the idiot offensive coordinator.

[Logan]

I'd be far more concerned about the idiot offensive coordinator.

Probably been too busy interviewing for college jobs.

[stevew]

I hope someone audibles into the spread vs Tampa and throws a fuck you TD.

[stevew]

I believe that Barry Sanders was the best RB that I've ever seen play. However, I'm starting to think it might be Adrian Petersen.

[spleen1015]

I hope someone audibles into the spread vs Tampa and throws a fuck you TD.

I hope the same thing.

[RainMaker]

I believe that Barry Sanders was the best RB that I've ever seen play. However, I'm starting to think it might be Adrian Petersen.

Peterson is the best I've ever seen. I can't believe what he's done less than a year from a traumatic knee injury. Guy isn't human.

[Butter]

That was the play call. Why get that fancy with that lead, at that time, in that end of the field?

Are you kidding? Did you see that pitch? You call plays that you think your team can execute. That pitch was horrific.

[stevew]

Peterson is the best I've ever seen. I can't believe what he's done less than a year from a traumatic knee injury. Guy isn't human.

We'll see what he does vs the Bears this week, but I think it's at least reasonable to think he might get 2000 yards this year. He needs 138.5/game to do that. 165 yards a game to break the record. Minnesota is playing for nothing, so they should try to get it for him.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Ryan Broyles is out with a torn ACL on his right knee. He tore the ACL on his left knee last year.

Titus Young was sent home again and is likely donezo. So, the Lions #2 receiver appears to be either Mike Thomas, a Jags castoff, or Tony Schefler, a tight end. Hell, they had Kassim Osgood lining up at WR Sunday at times.

Season's been a total waste. Well, at least we get to watch Megatron do super sweet stuff and maybe they'll get some good draft picks.

Sadly, it looks like last year is going to be the aberation. The Lions have a ton of UFAs on defense (like 8 out of 11 starters or something), don't have a ton of cap space thanks to mega deals for Calvin, Stafford and Suh and have an old offensive line.

[Matthean]

Wow just saw this on someone's status "Rihanna should date someone from the lions cuz they don't beat anybody"

From FB.

But yeah, the Lions are basically screwed cap wise. I would go over horribly, but I think letting Suh go might be for the better of the team. He's a huge cap hit, PR mess, and its not like the defense has been all that good.

[Suicane75]

I have a feeling Rhianna and Suh would get along swimmingly.

[Sun Tzu]

Are you kidding? Did you see that pitch? You call plays that you think your team can execute. That pitch was horrific.

I'm in this camp.

Kaep gift-wrapped 10 points (safety, bad pitch at the 2 yard line) for the Rams. Take those away, and the 49ers D only allowed a field goal in regulation. The play with the pitch - he didn't have to pitch the ball. He could have seen the opposing D sniffing out the play, and just run the ball up for a 2 yard loss. Running out of bounds was also a completely bonehead play. If he doesn't run out of bounds, the Rams have to A.) spend their last timeout, or B.) let the clock run down to sub 1 minute before Akers attempts the kick.

Nothing else matters beyond that. Kaep looked like a kid who was starting his third game. It happens.

FWIW, I'm in the "Start Kaep" camp too, and I fully expect him to have at least one additional ugly game before the year is out. I just hope that he doesn't have one this bad in the playoffs.

To answer Glengoyne's question, there's no way, IMO, that Harbaugh will go back to Smith now. Barring injury, Kaep is the new 49ers starting QB, and will be for the foreseeable future.

[Glengoyne]

Peterson is the best I've ever seen. I can't believe what he's done less than a year from a traumatic knee injury. Guy isn't human.

Barry was special, but was as like to get -7 as 70 yards on a given down. So I am in the school of thought that believes someone like AP, as if there are a lot in that class, would get you more down to down game after game.

[Glengoyne]

Wait the niners called a pitch option on their own two yard line? Or did I read that wrong, and they were at the Lamb's two?

[larrymcg421]

Wait the niners called a pitch option on their own two yard line? Or did I read that wrong, and they were at the Lamb's two?

Near their own and it's debatable whether the play call or the pitch was worse. I opt for the latter, but they were both atrocious.

[Glengoyne]

Wow...that would have to be a really bad pitch to be worse than a designed option out of your end zone.

[Matthean]

Barry was special, but was as like to get -7 as 70 yards on a given down.

This was also in part because the Lions OL couldn't run block worth a damn.

[mckerney]

Even when RGIII screws up his team scores.

[gstelmack]

Wait the niners called a pitch option on their own two yard line? Or did I read that wrong, and they were at the Lamb's two?

Colin Kaepernick, Jim Harbaugh share blame for pitch - NFL.com (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000104865/article/%7BuserLink%7D)

There is video there. The fun part is that they ruled it a TD as he was "untouched" even though Ted Ginn Jr is lying on his head as he recovers it...

But yeah, 3rd-and-3 from their own 17 with 3:15 left and a 10-2 lead (i.e. the opposing offense hasn't scored yet) and they try a long pitch after a fake handoff to Ted Ginn Jr doing an end-around. Why risk a pitch at all that deep in your own territory when you've been stuffing their offense all day? Run it up the middle, then punt. Any pitch is at a much higher fumble risk than any standard run.

[Dutch]

I hope someone audibles into the spread vs Tampa and throws a fuck you TD.


Well, we can at least agree on the hope that the offense attempts a pass. :)

[Glengoyne]

Well definitely a bad pitch. Not a good call, but I gotta join the camp laying the fault at Kaepernick's door.

Also. They almost tied again? That tells me two things. The rams have the Niners number and this wasn't all Kaepernick's fault.

[Lathum]

I hope someone audibles into the spread vs Tampa and throws a fuck you TD.

The thing is Schiano has done a great job this year and looks to be a legit nfl coach. It's a shame he is undoing all with that asinine tactic

[sabotai]

Giants really shot themselves in the foot with penalties, especially on special teams.

Here's the Giants' starting positions tonight
NYG 10
NYG 24
NYG 15
NYG 24
NYG 9
NYG 9
NYG 8
NYG 20

Nearly impossible to put up a lot of points when you're starting deep in your own territory on every single drive.

[EagleFan]

The good news for the Giants is that the Eagles won't be in the playoffs but first they need to get to the playoffs if they want another title.

(based on Manning being winless against the Eagles in the playoffs but unbeaten against everyone else in the playoffs)

[mckerney]

I believe that Barry Sanders was the best RB that I've ever seen play. However, I'm starting to think it might be Adrian Petersen.

He's been amazing recently. In the last 6 games he has 947 yards rushing while gaining 7.8 yards a carry. And he's doing it with defenses keying solely on him without having to worry about stopping the pass. Over the same period the Vikings have 786 yards passing at 4.5 per attempt.

[Dutch]

The thing is Schiano has done a great job this year and looks to be a legit nfl coach. It's a shame he is undoing all with that asinine tactic

Quitting is an asinine tactic.

[Matthean]

The thing is Schiano has done a great job this year and looks to be a legit nfl coach.

Honest question, aren't the Bucs 3rd in the division if the Saints have their act together?

[Buccaneer]

Quitting is an asinine tactic.

Oh great. You get a jerk coach on "your" team and all of a sudden, you make excuses and become an apologetic for him??

[Simbo Klice]

The hilarity in Philadelphia continues! Jim Washburn fired.

I can see Reid in his meeting with Loria now...

Reid - "We need to write off this year. It's not fair to fire me after I lost my defensive coordinator, defensive line coach and star defensive lineman. Plus, I was forced to start a rookie quarterback for part of the year."

Loria - "Get out."

:lol:

Wow. I would welcome him back to Tennessee in a heartbeat.

[Lathum]

Honest question, aren't the Bucs 3rd in the division if the Saints have their act together?

This is a silly statement IMO.

Aren't the eagles in first if they have their act together?

Aren't the Cowboys defending champs if they have thir act together?

Aren't the Lions competing for the division if they have their act together?



You can make comments like that about any team. How is it Schiano and the Buccs fault Drew Brees threw 5 picks Monday night?

The fact is he took a 4-12 team last year and has them 6-6 this year. The defense is playing better and Freeman looks like a different QB. Ha has coached Doug Martin up and made him into one of the best backs in the league ( if you don't thin Schiano had anything to do with that see Ray Rice and Brian Leonard).

Not sure what the Saints have anything to do with that.

[Matthean]

None of those teams had any extraordinary circumstances happen to them this year. The Saints lost their D corr. for good and head coach for a time. Schwartz helped improved the Lions from 0-16 to the playoffs. I doubt many think of him as a coach with potential at this point. Just because the new guy was better than the previous incompetent guy it doesn't mean the new guy is great.

[Lathum]

None of those teams had any extraordinary circumstances happen to them this year. The Saints lost their D corr. for good and head coach for a time. Schwartz helped improved the Lions from 0-16 to the playoffs. I doubt many think of him as a coach with potential at this point. Just because the new guy was better than the previous incompetent guy it doesn't mean the new guy is great.

I disagree.

Again, what does anything the Saints do have to do with Tampa being 6-6? And to discredit what Schiano has done is unfair, Buccs look like a much better team this year then last.

[Subby]

I love RGIII so much.

That is all.

[Dutch]

Oh great. You get a jerk coach on "your" team and all of a sudden, you make excuses and become an apologetic for him??

When the game is within reach, he expects his team to play to the end. If people really have a big problem with this, we should expect some sort of rule change or penalty or fine.

What's your solution, Buccaneer?

[stevew]

When 31 coaches understand something, the outlier can fuck himself.

[JediKooter]

When 31 coaches understand something, the outlier can fuck himself.

30 if you include Norv Turner. Of course, I really have no idea what you're referring to, but, in pretty much any situation, Turner is an outlier as a head coach.

[stevew]

Dola-

Absolutely change the line overload rules if that's what it takes.

[Buccaneer]

30 if you include Norv Turner. Of course, I really have no idea what you're referring to, but, in pretty much any situation, Turner is an outlier as a head coach.

I had to laugh at that. So true. :lol:

[Lathum]

When the game is within reach, he expects his team to play to the end. If people really have a big problem with this, we should expect some sort of rule change or penalty or fine.

What's your solution, Buccaneer?

I am as big a Schiano fan as you will find. I grew up going to Rutgers games when they were beyond dreadful. Schiano turned the program around and made them respectable. My sons Godfather was on Schianos staff, I am RU through and through.

That being said I think he is dead wrong in this. The kneel down play exists to basically end the game. The odds of a player getting hurt, either your own or someone elses, are FAR higher than recovering thew ball, actually scoring, getting the 2 point conversion, then winning in OT. There is a reason other coaches don't do it. Schiano hasn't figured out some magic loophole, he is being an ass.

[Buccaneer]

When the game is within reach, he expects his team to play to the end. If people really have a big problem with this, we should expect some sort of rule change or penalty or fine.

What's your solution, Buccaneer?

You and all of your fellow fans tell him to knock it off. He's like a little child acting likes he's a big boy trying to prove how tough he is. He's not and it's making him look worse.

[Dutch]

You and all of your fellow fans tell him to knock it off. He's like a little child acting likes he's a big boy trying to prove how tough he is. He's not and it's making him look worse.

So now lets have a realistic solution attempt, Buccaneer. If this is really that bothersome to you, what should the NFL do about it?

HINT: All indications point to him running this "Victory Formation Rush" because he believes he can get the ball back...not because he's angry or upset.

[Desnudo]

If that thing does work once, how long until every other team in the league is doing it and the formation dies? You can call him an asshole, but so is every other coach in the league.

[mckerney]

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PH0C87tJgmg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[gstelmack]

If you don't want coaches trying to get the ball back, then end the game once it's obvious one team can run out the clock. If you make them snap the ball, then be prepared for them to play.

[JediKooter]

I had to laugh at that. So true. :lol:

I'm glad someone caught that. :)

[Young Drachma]

Christian Ponder engaged to ESPN's Samantha Steele (http://www.usatoday.com/story/gameon/2012/12/04/samantha-steele-christian-ponder-engaged/1746139/?morestories=obnetwork)

That was fast.

[Matthean]

Christian Ponder engaged to ESPN's Samantha Steele (http://www.usatoday.com/story/gameon/2012/12/04/samantha-steele-christian-ponder-engaged/1746139/?morestories=obnetwork)

That was fast.

That's what she said.

[Desnudo]

Sanchez starting next week

[Lathum]

Red skins can easily run the table. RG3 is crazy good.

[larrymcg421]

Eli tripped when the Bucs attacked the victory formation. If he fumbled when he tripped (a la Clint Stoerner vs. Tennessee), then people are calling Schiano a genius right now.

[Lathum]

Eli tripped when the Bucs attacked the victory formation. If he fumbled when he tripped (a la Clint Stoerner vs. Tennessee), then people are calling Schiano a genius right now.

Assuming the buccs recover , get past the deep guy, tie the game, then win in OT.

There is a reason coached don't do it. Like I said earlier, Schiano hasn't found some magic loophole no one has ever thought of.

[Lathum]

Dola- Eli also tripped because he was
Caught off
Guard. Team will now be ready for it.

[RedKingGold]

jbLathumagic

[Lathum]

Wow. Holy iPhone post.

[johnnyshaka]

I thought it was some kind of complex Haiku that I'm not intellectually capable of comprehending.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Christian Ponder engaged to ESPN's Samantha Steele (http://www.usatoday.com/story/gameon/2012/12/04/samantha-steele-christian-ponder-engaged/1746139/?morestories=obnetwork)

That was fast.

Christian Ponder wedding...I'm willing to bet, after the ceremony, there'll be no reception.

:D

[mckerney]

Christian Ponder engaged to ESPN's Samantha Steele (http://www.usatoday.com/story/gameon/2012/12/04/samantha-steele-christian-ponder-engaged/1746139/?morestories=obnetwork)

That was fast.

May as well lock her down while he's still employed.

[mckerney]

http://thebiglead.fantasysportsven.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/philip-rivers-sucks-now.png

[britrock88]

Christian Ponder wedding...I'm willing to bet, after the ceremony, there'll be no reception.

:D

Deserves some love.

[JPhillips]

May as well lock her down while he's still employed.

I'm guessing this marriage will get rocky when he's a backup and she's posing for Maxim.