NFL Week 17

[Dutch]

Lavonte David got robbed!

[RedKingGold]

Like, literally?

[claphamsa]

Like, literally?

PFF has him as the #2 defender in all of football (or something like that) and he didnt make the pro bowl.

[Dutch]

Like, literally?

:)

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=lavonte+david+got+robbed

[frnk55]

:lol: I've never seen Let me google that for you before. Was that so hard? :lol:

[BishopMVP]

Lavonte David got robbed!Geno Smith's flop last week certainly helped that cause. Or would have, if anyone still paid attention to the Jets.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I'm going to go with the Chiefs sucking this week considering several starters aren't likely to even play this week.

[BishopMVP]

Terrible news - apparently now we can't make fun of Matt Flynn for that last play - NFL says clock started prematurely on final play between Packers, Steelers - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/10203196/nfl-says-clock-started-prematurely-final-play-packers-steelers)

Glad the NFL sorted that out 6 days later. (They also said one of Peyton's TD passes shouldn't have counted - NFL admits Peyton Manning TD pass should've been disallowed, Houston Texans coach says - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/10200749/nfl-admits-peyton-manning-td-pass-disallowed-houston-texans-coach-says))

[BishopMVP]

I'm going to go with the Chiefs sucking this week considering several starters aren't likely to even play this week.Well, they do have 8 Pro Bowlers, so they must be great!

Glad to see voting players in off reputation hasn't really changed, even if they combined conferences :rolleyes: Tom Brady's had his worst season since at least 2006, and he's probably our least egregious selection. Logan Mankins has stepped up in a huge way at tackle the last 2 weeks, but he's been a liability in pass-protection for a couple years now, Aqib Talib was great the first 6 weeks, but has missed multiple weeks or played at half-speed since then due to the hip, and Matthew Slater has actually been injured since like week 5. Funny thing for an 11/12 win team is I don't really think anyone deserves it - outside of those 4 Julian Edelman's been great, but he doesn't match up with the other WR (maybe you could sneak him on at Special Teams for his punt returning) and the only other one is maybe Devin McCourty at FS, but again he doesn't match up with Byrd, Thomas or Weddle off their rep (again, Byrd's missed a lot of time with injury, but idk how well he's played once he got back.)

[Desnudo]

I don't agree with the Brady assessment. In a lot of ways, considering the talent on hand, this was one of his finest seasons with several marquee last second comebacks. He still managed to finished #10 on ESPN's QBR list which includes several players who were injured or not playing for a good chunk of the year - Rodgers, Foles, McKown, Cutler. Now if you could elect McCutler as one person, maybe they should get the slot.

[Jas_lov]

Nobody beats Aaron Rodgers at Soldier Field. He'll shake the rust off early and Ed Lacy will do the rest. Cobb will return as well. GB might be getting healthy at just the right time again. Could be another SB run like 2010. Bears fans can't have any confidence in Cutler, that's why they extended the kicker first. But if that kicker makes a FG against Minnesota then this game is rendered moot so be careful what you wish for.

[Matthean]

O'Brien is talks with the Texans. The continual talk of how his NFL buyout got lowered pointed towards this.

[Dutch]

Finally, a good use of Twitter.

Cardinals plead for Buccaneers help on Twitter, 'Star Wars' style - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/24389452/cardinals-plead-for-buccaneers-help-on-twitter-star-wars-style)

[Thomkal]

Finally, a good use of Twitter.

Cardinals plead for Buccaneers help on Twitter, 'Star Wars' style - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/24389452/cardinals-plead-for-buccaneers-help-on-twitter-star-wars-style)

LOL love it. I also love that the Saints/Bucs Cards/49ers games are on at the same time. Didn't realize that until today. So Cards won't be playing a meaningless game with New Orleans already having won and clinched a playoff spot. Take a halftime lead against SF or at least keep it close and hope Tampa does the same against the Saints to put more pressure on NO. Tampa could have easily won games at Seattle and at home against the Cards and Saints this year so I can see them keeping it close against the Saints despite the game having no meaning to them. Unfortunately I can also see them being blown out. Worried too my beloved Cards come out flat after their big win against Seattle. Thankfully they are playing this one at home.

If the Cards make the playoffs, I sadly must root against the Eagles tonight (sorry various EagleFan screen names on the board). Eagles beat the Cards this season so would rather not face them again in the playoffs, and lets face it all the playoff teams will be drooling at the chance to play a Romo-less Cowboys. However if the Cards don't make the playoffs, I'll be rooting for the Eagles to stomp all over the hated Cowboys :)

[frnk55]

Finally, a good use of Twitter.

Cardinals plead for Buccaneers help on Twitter, 'Star Wars' style - CBSSports.com (http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/24389452/cardinals-plead-for-buccaneers-help-on-twitter-star-wars-style)
Ha, that's great. If not for football today I feel like a Star Wars marathon now. :)

[ColtCrazy]

Antoine Bethea routinely gets overlooked for the Pro Bowl despite being one of the better (and sadly, unknown) safeties in the league. He's better than Polamalu at this point in his career, but the big haired one gets in on rep.

[BillJasper]

Chiefs need to play their starters and play to win today. Or else they go into the playoffs with the total breakdown against Indy at home on their minds.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Chiefs need to play their starters and play to win today. Or else they go into the playoffs with the total breakdown against Indy at home on their minds.

That's not going to happen. I'm trying to figure out if I'm even going to watch the game today given that it's going to be managed much like a preseason game today.

I don't think most of the players are sweating the Indy game too much. Most of the turnovers and other things that happened were things that weren't the norm for this team. There's little question that the Colts are the weakest division winner. It's an ideal first round matchup for the Chiefs coming off what amounts to a bye week. Add in that two of the Chiefs best players (Houston and Albert) will be back in the lineup after over a month away and I'd love the Chiefs' chances in that matchup.

[claphamsa]

Time to crush some Raven hopes and dreams...

[EagleFan]

Time to crush some Raven hopes and dreams...

Not with that start.

[BillJasper]

Dalton not looking so sharp early.

[BillJasper]

I HATE the Miami Dolphins. :mad:

[Abe Sargent]

Hello Jets

[Thomkal]

anyone having trouble with Red Zone today? Keeps freezing on me

[BishopMVP]

I don't agree with the Brady assessment. In a lot of ways, considering the talent on hand, this was one of his finest seasons with several marquee last second comebacks. He still managed to finished #10 on ESPN's QBR list which includes several players who were injured or not playing for a good chunk of the year - Rodgers, Foles, McKown, Cutler. Now if you could elect McCutler as one person, maybe they should get the slot.You're right, if you take out the half-season guys (Rodgers, Foles) He's probably still a solid 4th after Manning/Rivers/Brees Just shows what a high level people expect from him.

The other players I forgot to list in my initial post are Chandler Jones, Nate Solder (even with missing 2 games), and Stephen Gostkowski, but again none is an egregious oversight. I think the 2 really bad ones are Lavonte David and Muhammad Wilkerson.

[Thomkal]

a 10 yard punt for the new Cincy punter...and maybe old after the game

[claphamsa]

a 10 yard punt for the new Cincy punter...and maybe old after the game

im available, and ill play for groupies!

[NobodyHere]

Come on Baltimore! Help Indy get a vacation next week!

[Thomkal]

im available, and ill play for groupies!


I'm sure they will give you a call :)

[Scarecrow]

Chiefs need to play their starters and play to win today. Or else they go into the playoffs with the total breakdown against Indy at home on their minds.

KC is giving SD a present. Chiefs inactives:

Alex Smith
Jamaal Charles
Derrick Johnson
Branden Albert
Dwayne Bowe
Tamba Hali
Dantari Poe

In fact, it's been announced 19 of the 22 starters will not play.

[panerd]

Why oh why do you catch a 40 yard bomb on 4th down? I love Cincy and realize their defense is good because of the reckless abandon they play with but the 30 yards of penalties on one play, the pass on first and goal from the 1, and then catching a potential turnover on downs is the sort of stuff that frustrates me about this team.

[claphamsa]

Why oh why do you catch a 40 yard bomb on 4th down? I love Cincy and realize their defense is good because of the reckless abandon they play with but the 30 yards of penalties on one play, the pass on first and goal from the 1, and then catching a potential turnover on downs is the sort of stuff that frustrates me about this team.

Kirkpatrick sucks

[BillJasper]

I think Kirkpatrick just made up for his mistake. :lol:

[Thomkal]

And that's the end of the Ravens. Good riddance :) Dalton should not be smiling though with 4 INT-lucky their defense bailed him out.

[Thomkal]

Pittsburgh looking good for a wacky playoff spot win which would fit with the wacky results in the NFL this year.

Though I suppose the Chargers chances are much better now given that the Chiefs stayed in KC

[claphamsa]

I think Kirkpatrick just made up for his mistake. :lol:

the he did!

[Thomkal]

And that's the end of the Dolphins. Good riddance :)

[Thomkal]

c'mon Falcons, give Tony G one last TD

[Thomkal]

oh my....and that's the Falcons season in one play

[BillJasper]

And that's the end of the Dolphins. Good riddance :)

I hope they fire everyone. Control your own playoff destiny and get out scored by the Bills and Jets by a combined score of 39-7.

[Thomkal]

Congrats on a great career to Tony Gonzales.

[Thomkal]

I hope they fire everyone. Control your own playoff destiny and get out scored by the Bills and Jets by a combined score of 39-7.

I wonder if this combined with the Incognito lunacy ends up getting Philbin fired.

[Thomkal]

Let's go Beloved Cardinals! (and Tampa too!)

[NobodyHere]

F&*^ Balitmore

[cougarfreak]

Somebody let Shannon Sharpe know the Bengals already beat Luck, Brady, and Rivers?

[korme]

'Twas a Ravens fan tap tap tapping on my chamber door. "Are we still going to make the playoffs?" Said he. Quoth the Raven, "Nevermore". WHO DEY!

[BillJasper]

Somebody let Shannon Sharpe know the Bengals already beat Luck, Brady, and Rivers?

Bengals will be tough if Dalton can control the INT's.

[SirFozzie]

so Pats are 1 seed with win and Denver Loss (snicker, yah right), 2 seed with win and denver win, and 4 seed with loss

[Thomkal]

so QB controversy for the Giants next season? (just kidding Lathum, don't kill me)

[BillJasper]

Wonder if Washington even lets the coaching staff on the plane home?

[Solecismic]

It's nice of NFL.com to put in anti-ad-blocking measures just in time for week 17.

One of these days, web sites and television stations are going to realize that people like me won't sit through an ad no matter what, so they're going to make it impossible to get around this crap.

[korme]

Come on Bills!

[Thomkal]

nice defensive stand for my Cards to only give up a FG there. Sadly New Orleans just scored a TD. :(

[Thomkal]

wow freeflicker TD for the Bucs!

[Thomkal]

Sadly Palmer returning to his early season form the past two weeks. :( INT and now TD for SF-Boldin getting his revenge.

[Coffee Warlord]

Hey look, Chris Conte did something good!

[JPhillips]

KC is giving SD a present. Chiefs inactives:

Alex Smith
Jamaal Charles
Derrick Johnson
Branden Albert
Dwayne Bowe
Tamba Hali
Dantari Poe

In fact, it's been announced 19 of the 22 starters will not play.

I almost feel for the Steelers. If KC tried, Pitt would have a great shot of going to the playoffs.

[SirFozzie]

14-0 Broncos already

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I almost feel for the Steelers. If they would have bothered to lose less than 8 games, Pitt would have a great shot of going to the playoffs.

Fixed

[Thomkal]

sighs

[Coffee Warlord]

Aaron Rodgers channeling some Cutler.

[SirFozzie]

Fuck, Mankins Hurt, but the Pats are just running over the Bills, Something like 175 yards rushing already.

[Coffee Warlord]

Fucking horseshit penatly call on a big 3rd down stop.

[JPhillips]

Fixed

Calm down. Maybe the Chiefs can keep from going 2-5 down the stretch.

[BillJasper]

Calm down. Maybe the Chiefs can keep from going 2-5 down the stretch.

:lol:

Reggie McKenzie and Dennis Allen are done in Oakland.

[TroyF]

Ronnie Hillman with a run and he didn't fumble. Congrats Ronnie.

I think the Chargers are one of those teams that scares the hell out of me. If everyone remembers, I was far more worried about the Chargers beating the Broncos in the second half of the season than the Chiefs. The Chargers are a fairly well rounded team. If Rivers gets hot. . . he has more talent than Eli and Flacco. That team would scare me and I thought they'd find a way in for awhile.

The Broncos are now the highest scoring offense of all time. Manning has three more scores to add to his TD record. He needs 70 yards to catch Brees. I don't think they call off the dogs until they are up 40, records or no records. They might be close by halftime.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Calm down. Maybe the Chiefs can keep from going 2-5 down the stretch.

12-4 or 11-5.......either is a #5 seed in the playoffs last I checked.

[BillJasper]

12-4 or 11-5.......either is a #5 seed in the playoffs last I checked.

Yep. But you'd think starting out 9-0 they would have at least still been in play for a #1 or #2 seed today. :p

[SirFozzie]

what the fuck, Bears?????

[Coffee Warlord]

Bears vs Packers AND Refs today.

[BillJasper]

Bears vs Packers AND Refs today.

I don't know what mistakes the refs have made, but that was a fumble. It's pretty clear.

[PilotMan]

Why are there still even fans watching the Raiders/Broncos today. It's like watching varsity/JV walkthroughs out there.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Yep. But you'd think starting out 9-0 they would have at least still been in play for a #1 or #2 seed today. :p

Chiefs suck.

The Chargers are wishing they were facing the first team right now.

[PilotMan]

Chiefs suck.

The Chargers are wishing they were facing the first team right now.

Well I hope they keep sucking just like this in the second half.

[BillJasper]

Chiefs suck.



Nope. They have a lot of talent, they just weren't as good as that 9-0 start made everyone think.

[Coffee Warlord]

Sigh.

[Coffee Warlord]

I don't know what mistakes the refs have made, but that was a fumble. It's pretty clear.

Right or wrong, I've seen that play be called a forward pass a billion times.

Refs have blown a review on a punt that was incorrectly called a touchback, along with a (shock) mystery roughing call. Two huge plays.

Of course, with the stupid mistakes the Bears have made already, it doesn't really matter.

[rowech]

30 minutes from Steelers going to Cincy to ruin another season.

[Atocep]

The hand started to move forward before it was knocked loose. I thought the slow motion replay clearly showed it should have been incomplete.

The penalty was iffy. I'm at the point now where I don't even question flags on QBs anymore.

[Coffee Warlord]

It's sad that we're at the point now, whenever there's a sack, you need to look for flags before celebrating.

[Lathum]

30 minutes from Steelers going to Cincy to ruin another season.

If they can't beat a .500 team in their own building they don't deserve to make a deep run,

[TroyF]

Right or wrong, I've seen that play be called a forward pass a billion times.

Refs have blown a review on a punt that was incorrectly called a touchback, along with a (shock) mystery roughing call. Two huge plays.

Of course, with the stupid mistakes the Bears have made already, it doesn't really matter.

Yes, I agree with you on all point. Seen that "push" forward after the ball spins be called a forward pass a lot. The punt TB call still baffles me and I don't even know what to say about the late hit. That was a joke of all jokes. This game is really about teams missing chances though. Both could be up 20 points. Instead, it's a one play game.

[BillJasper]

Right or wrong, I've seen that play be called a forward pass a billion times.



Right or wrong call (I think it was right YMMV), there was no whistle and the Bears stopped playing.

[BillJasper]

What was Tampa Bay trying to do there?

[Coffee Warlord]

Right or wrong call (I think it was right YMMV), there was no whistle and the Bears stopped playing.

You're an idiot if you think that's a fumble and I hope you and all your livestock die.

At the end of the day, yes - another stupid mental mistake by the Bears.

[BillJasper]

You're an idiot if you think that's a fumble and I hope you and all your livestock die.


:D

[rowech]

If they can't beat a .500 team in their own building they don't deserve to make a deep run,

Not so sure they're really a true .500 team.

[Thomkal]

well could have been much worse for the Cards-down 17-7. Cards had two defensive stops near the goal line and SF missed one of the FG's. So still could come back, but looks like the Buccaneers defense has forgotten to show up with Brees already over 300 passing yards.

[Thomkal]

What was Tampa Bay trying to do there?

Trying to confuse everyone including the announcers and the people watching?

[PilotMan]

Not so sure they're really a true .500 team.

IF they play, the Bengals aren't the same old Bengals either. This team is 2 OT losses from winning 11 of their last 12. On paper they are still better than PIT even with improvements that PIT have made over the last few weeks. I will say 9 times out of 10 you give the ball away to BAL you lose. Today was the exception.

[rowech]

IF they play, the Bengals aren't the same old Bengals either. This team is 2 OT losses from winning 11 of their last 12. On paper they are still better than PIT even with improvements that PIT have made over the last few weeks. I will say 9 times out of 10 you give the ball away to BAL you lose. Today was the exception.

All comes down to Dalton for them.

[Julio Riddols]

With that goal line call, I just sat shaking my head. The Bengals need to man up, load up, and just dare teams to stop them from the 1. If you can't get a yard in any situation on 3 plays, then you do not deserve to win. Man up, beat your opponent and stop being fucking fancy. In that situation with the clock where it was and the score where it was, all they needed to do was run, run, run, kick a FG if necessary. They also need to get better at running clock when they lead at the end of games. Snapping the ball in clock killing mode with 10 seconds left is terrible.

[jbergey22]

Look at that. A team sticks with the run for a few plays and scores a TD. Well done Bears.

[SirFozzie]

Brady with the quick kick :)

[Solecismic]

You're an idiot if you think that's a fumble and I hope you and all your livestock die.

At the end of the day, yes - another stupid mental mistake by the Bears.

Yeah, even on the first replay it seemed obvious the ball was out before his hand started moving forward. Just bad luck because it looked like the same incomplete pass we've all seen a thousand times. But according to the rules that's not even a controversial call.

The roughing call, though... just terrible officiating. There was no way to know Rodgers was down before he made his tackle attempt and there was no attempt to punish Rodgers or lead with his head.

[Coffee Warlord]

Look at that. A team sticks with the run for a few plays and scores a TD. Well done Bears.

I honestly do not understand why anyone playing the Bears this year bothers to throw...at *all*. They could (and have) stacked 9 in the box and not stopped anything.

[BillJasper]

I can't believe how flat Miami, Baltimore and San Diego have played considering there was a playoff berth at stake.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I can't believe how flat Miami, Baltimore and San Diego have played considering there was a playoff berth at stake.

They're all .500 teams. There's a reason they're in the position they are.

[tarcone]

Fisher better get some discipline on this team.

[Suburban Rhythm]

All comes down to Dalton for them.

Until Kimo takes out his knee on the first play from scrimmage.

[rowech]

Until Kimo takes out his knee on the first play from scrimmage.

They will go for Green instead.

[rowech]

Can't believe Geeen Bay kicked.

[JPhillips]

12-4 or 11-5.......either is a #5 seed in the playoffs last I checked.

1-5 or 1-3 against playoff teams

20th in total offense

23rd in total defense

(against maybe only 4 playoff teams)

[bhlloy]

This is going to be the most Chargers end to a Chargers season ever

[Coffee Warlord]

Bears need to pretty much get a TD every possession.

[EagleFan]

12-4 or 11-5.......either is a #5 seed in the playoffs last I checked.

2-5 or 3-4 down the stretch both sucked last I checked.

[BillJasper]

Wow... I can't believe Succop missed that FG.

[CleBrownsfan]

Yikes

[Lathum]

wow, and a million Steelers fans called out at once and were immediately silenced,

[CleBrownsfan]

I just read that the Clowns will fire Chud and go through yet another coaching change. Lmao - what a disgrace of a franchise.

[Radii]

2-5 or 3-4 down the stretch both sucked last I checked.

I'm pretty sure he was just pointing out that it doesn't matter whether the chiefs win today, so they're resting people. I'm confused by the mbbf pileon this time! There are much more interesting things to talk about today than the chiefs!

[JPhillips]

David Stern has fined the Spurs for the Chiefs resting players.

[EagleFan]

I'm pretty sure he was just pointing out that it doesn't matter whether the chiefs win today, so they're resting people. I'm confused by the mbbf pileon this time! There are much more interesting things to talk about today than the chiefs!

His response was about the team potentially going 2-5 down the stretch. Not about "I can't believe they are going to lose this one game".

Now that is about enough conversation about the Chiefs for one year.

[EagleFan]

Would like to see the always entertaining "Tie to clinch the playoffs" celebration. :)

[EagleFan]

Wasn't he still moving forward and not down yet?

[BillJasper]

Wasn't he still moving forward and not down yet?

How could the booth not review it?

[EagleFan]

Holy crap! How do you let someone get that far behind you on that play? Major blown coverage.

[BillJasper]

These Bears definitely don't play through the entire play.

[EagleFan]

How could the booth not review it?

Can they, it's all about the whistle blowing the play dead?

[Lathum]

lol @ the Bears secondary

[Coffee Warlord]

Un fucking believable.

[Dutch]

Sorry Arizona...the Bucs just suck way too much to beat the Saints in New Orleans.

[SirFozzie]

OMG

[Coffee Warlord]

Kick it to Hester!

[kingfc22]

Out of all the potential matchup a for the wild card round. Going to Green Bay was the one I didn't want to see. Looks like it's going to happen.

[BillJasper]

Tough loss for the Bears.

[Lathum]

Green Bay is obviously an elite team with Rodgers, but what an epic collapse by the Lions and Bears that one of them couldn't win that division.

[BillJasper]

I think Bruce Arians deserves 'Coach of the Year'.

[kingfc22]

Would almost be happier to see Niners lose so they can play PHi or DAL.

[jbergey22]

I think Bruce Arians deserves 'Coach of the Year'.

Lots of good options this year.

Andy Reid
Mike McCarthy
Bruce Arians
Ron Rivera
Sean Payton

[Jas_lov]

The slipper still fits! What an improbably comeback by Rodgers. Nobody beats Aaron Rodgers at Soldier Field. Difference between GB and Chicago is GB has a QB and Chicago doesn't, and they want to extend him. GB will take 1-9 against them any day of the week, extend him for 7 more years.

[Atocep]

Green Bay is obviously an elite team with Rodgers, but what an epic collapse by the Lions and Bears that one of them couldn't win that division.

The bears led the NFL in games missed by starters on the defensive side of the ball and played without their starting QB for the better part of 6 games. They were just as fortunate as Green Bay to be in the position they were in.

[jbergey22]

The slipper still fits! What an improbably comeback by Rodgers. Nobody beats Aaron Rodgers at Soldier Field. Difference between GB and Chicago is GB has a QB and Chicago doesn't, and they want to extend him. GB will take 1-9 against them any day of the week, extend him for 7 more years.

You were one fluky defensive mishap from being 8-2 and out of the playoffs. Really nothing dominating about that performance where you would act like this was a foregone conclusion coming in.

[Jas_lov]

I wish people would stop comparing the Bears injuries to GB's. Rodgers is the best player in the league. The Bears QB IMPROVED without Cutler, so much so that the fans wanted McCown to keep starting. Rodgers, Cobb, Matthews are 3 of GB's top 5 players and they all missed quite a bit of time. GB is a 13-3 team with Rodgers, 3-13 without.

[CU Tiger]

In the KC SD game...last play in OT KC down three 4th and 17 and they run a play action pass....why? Whomdomyou think is biting on the run fake?

Why turn the QBs back to the field to fake a run on 4th and 17???

[Buccaneer]

Wow. Amazing and exciting endings.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

2-5 or 3-4 down the stretch both sucked last I checked.

The Chiefs are 11-5 down the stretch this year. Which sucks.

[NobodyHere]

I really thought the Chargers were going to collapse on that last play.

[BillJasper]

Wow. Amazing and exciting endings.

Agreed. It was a really a fun slate of games.

The Chiefs are 11-5 down the stretch this year. Which sucks.

:lol:

[Desnudo]

Chargers win the battle for least mediocre and therefore are probably going to win it all.

[BillJasper]

Chargers win the battle for least mediocre and therefore are probably going to win it all.

It should be a good game between them and Cincinnati.

[Radii]

Between the KC/SD game and bears/packers, that last hour was amazing to watch. I really would have much rather seen the Bears in the playoffs than Green Bay though. I do hope we get a Green Bay/Seattle game in the playoffs though for two reasons:

1) That would mean that Carolina is playing Dallas or Philly in the second round, much preferred over GB/SF/NO

2) I would love to see that replacement ref hail mary 700 times during the week before the game.

[jbergey22]

I wish people would stop comparing the Bears injuries to GB's. Rodgers is the best player in the league. The Bears QB IMPROVED without Cutler, so much so that the fans wanted McCown to keep starting. Rodgers, Cobb, Matthews are 3 of GB's top 5 players and they all missed quite a bit of time. GB is a 13-3 team with Rodgers, 3-13 without.

A lot of this is partially correct and a lot of this is extreme bias. Peyton Manning just had the best passing year of any QB in NFL history. At this moment in time Id say he would have to be the best player in the league. As for the Packers being 13-3 with Rodgers, they were 6-2 with him this year and have only won 12 or more regular season games with him as a starting qb 1 time.

I certainly think hes great and that injury hurt the Packers much more than Cutler hurt the Bears but you just took everything to the extreme in this post.

Congrats on that win. That was an exciting game.

[MIJB#19]

Wow. Amazing and exciting endings.
Definitely. The Dolphins losing, the Ravens losing, then the Steelers staying alive, the Chargers needing overtime to get past the Chiefs reserves. I can't really count the Cardinals loss to the 49ers, given that the Saints wrapped it up so quickly. So far, I'm voting for the drama in the NFC North championship game. But we don't know what drama can ensue in the NFC East championship game...

[tucker rocky]

1st round playoffs

NFC

NO at PHI/DAL
SF at GB

AFC

SD at CIN
KC at IND

[Atocep]

I wish people would stop comparing the Bears injuries to GB's. Rodgers is the best player in the league. The Bears QB IMPROVED without Cutler, so much so that the fans wanted McCown to keep starting. Rodgers, Cobb, Matthews are 3 of GB's top 5 players and they all missed quite a bit of time. GB is a 13-3 team with Rodgers, 3-13 without.

First, there was no direct comparison. I simply stated both overcame significant injuries and were fortunate to be where they were.

Second, the Bears were without Melton, Briggs, Tillman, Cutler, DJ Williams, and Stephen Paea for a good part of the season plus Peppers played hurt the first half of the season. That's their starting QB and two best defensive players along with several other defensive starters.

Rodgers is a great player. He's not the best player in the league by any measure.

Congrats on the win.

[Buccaneer]

As RedZone was doing its attention deficit broadcast, I noticed two times at the end of the late games that a QB attempted a pass beyond the line of scrimmage. I know one of them was the Bears QB on the last (about 4 yards beyond) but don't recall the other one (could have been the Chiefs QB or the Bears one again). Do they not throw a flag on this any more?

[jbergey22]

The Chiefs are 11-5 down the stretch this year. Which sucks.

They didnt play as well in their last 6-7 games. I dont think that it is a secret. The defense started to show weakness. Did you think they played well the 2nd half of the season?

They are in the playoffs and in the NFL anything can happen but that defense needs to play like they did at the beginning of the season rather than at the end of the season if they want to have any success in the playoffs.

[Marmel]

Rodgers is the best player in the league.


No. Just stop.

[Atocep]

As RedZone was doing its attention deficit broadcast, I noticed two times at the end of the late games that a QB attempted a pass beyond the line of scrimmage. I know one of them was the Bears QB on the last (about 4 yards beyond) but don't recall the other one (could have been the Chiefs QB or the Bears one again). Do they not throw a flag on this any more?

Entire body has to be past the line for it to be a flag.

[jbergey22]

As RedZone was doing its attention deficit broadcast, I noticed two times at the end of the late games that a QB attempted a pass beyond the line of scrimmage. I know one of them was the Bears QB on the last (about 4 yards beyond) but don't recall the other one (could have been the Chiefs QB or the Bears one again). Do they not throw a flag on this any more?

They do!

Cutler was right at the LOS when he threw his so they were right in not calling that. Didnt see the other one you are referring to.

Actually the Chiefs QB on the last play was beyond the LOS. They called it but it was declined since it was 4th down. Is that the one?

[Buccaneer]

They do!

Cutler was right at the LOS when he threw his so they were right in not calling that. Didnt see the other one you are referring to.

Actually the Chiefs QB on the last play was beyond the LOS. They called it but it was declined since it was 4th down. Is that the one?

That would be the one, didn't notice the flag. For Cutler, I was going by where the digital blue line was on that last play.

[Buccaneer]

Amazing stat: In Belichick's 14 seasons at NE, they have had a first round bye 8 times.

[Thomkal]

well my beloved Cards nearly pulled it off-Jay Feely missing those two FG's really hurt. I posted back about the Week 4 thread how awful this team was-Carson Palmer was a walking INT machine and the defense stunk. But once Daryl Washington came back from his four game suspension, it seems like the team gained new life and showed their true potential. Will have to see what they do with Palmer now-he's on a one year contract and for all the success he had, he threw 21 INT's.

Back in that week 4 post I jokingly said after I ripped into them, "now watch they will make the playoffs". Well that almost happened and no one is more surprised than me. So while I'm disappointed they didn't quite make it, have to say they surpassed all my expectations and deserved to be fighting for a playoff spot in the last week of the season.

Good luck to all the teams that made/will make the playoffs and their fans as well.

[RainMaker]

Second, the Bears were without Melton, Briggs, Tillman, Cutler, DJ Williams, and Stephen Paea for a good part of the season plus Peppers played hurt the first half of the season. That's their starting QB and two best defensive players along with several other defensive starters.


DJ Williams and Melton were playing bad. And Paea doesn't belong in the NFL.

[miami_fan]

Effin Romo....oh wait

[BillJasper]

Worst thing that could happen to the Cowboys.

[miami_fan]

I see it is still a funny thing when a offensive player leads with the crown of his helmet.

[BillJasper]

The Dallas defense is playing about as well as expected. :lol:

[Solecismic]

2014 Draft Order

1. HOU, 2. STL (through WAS), 3. JAX, 4. CLE, 5. OAK, 6. ATL, 7. TBY, 8. MIN, 9. BUF, 10. DET, 11. TEN, 12. NYG. 13. STL, 14. CHI, 15. PIT... 20. ARI.

If Dallas wins: 16. BAL, 17. NYJ, 18. MIA, 19. PHI.

If Philadelphia wins: 16/17. DAL/BAL coin flip, 18. NYJ, 19. MIA.

[Solecismic]

Amazing stat: In Belichick's 14 seasons at NE, they have had a first round bye 8 times.

Even more amazing: they have 14 more regular season wins over the last seven years than any other team (2 per season), yet no Super Bowl wins during that time.

Given the 3 previous Super Bowl wins and the fact that Belichick/Brady shouldn't be expected to be any worse in key games as they mature, it makes you wonder what the playoffs are testing?

Of course, if you anoint champions like college football does, you'd invite some legitimate anger.

[tucker rocky]

Chris Collinsworth sporting the "Mr. Rogers" sweater. :lol:

[TroyF]

Lots of good options this year.

Andy Reid
Mike McCarthy
Bruce Arians
Ron Rivera
Sean Payton

Andy Reid - Chiefs go from 2-14 to 11-5.

Pros

Obviously, the record. Implemented new system with new QB to take team to another level. Started 9-0.

Cons

A ton of talent already there, they just had a lot of the defense injured last year and no QB. Get a competent QB and the defense healthy, there would have been a massive improvement anyway. Record HEAVILY influenced by schedule. 6 of their 10 wins were against last place teams.

McCarthy

Pros

Won the division. Brutal schedule and lost his all pro QB for a good chunk of time.

Cons

If the other teams in the division didn't take shotguns, point them directly at their feet and pull the trigger, the Packers would not have made the playoffs. Really hard to get excited about gutting out a win against the Bears when this same Bears team was tore apart at the seams by Philly the previous week.

Arians

Pro

He led the Cardinals to ten wins. Enough said. Lots of young players, new Qb, brutal top of the division. Beat both the Colts and Panthers. 7-2 in last nine games with both losses coming by 3 points.

Con

Didn't make the playoffs. Coach of the years generally make the playoffs. No matter the reasons, the Cardinals are not there.

Rivera

Pro

Terrific finish (11-1 in last 12) Tons of publicity for pulling his head out of his cranium and getting some balls. Massive wins against Patriots and Saints. Played the Seahawks tough. First round bye, the highest playoff spot of all the candidates

Con

Only played 5 playoff teams. (3-2 record) 6 wins against teams with 6 or less W's themselves.

Chip Kelly

Pro

The Eagles haven't exactly had good year the last two under Reid. While the Chiefs won 2 last year, the Eagles only won 4 and had a far worse defense than the Chiefs. New system (bonus points for it being heavily criticized) Assuming a win tonight, 10 win season with a new QB in the first year of his regime.

Con

Dumpster fire of a division. Weak schedule

Sorry, but I'm not going to rate Payton. Yes, the Saints had a poor season last year, but there were too many issues beyond just his suspension to talk about impacting that team. Multiple coaches suspended, coaching change in mid year because of those suspensions, top player involved in labor dispute, etc. I'm sorry, they were always a 10+ win team. He's a great coach, he isn't coach of the year.


My vote? Probably Rivera. More high profile wins, higher seed in playoffs, better finish. I won't complain when Reid wins it.

[TroyF]

Even more amazing: they have 14 more regular season wins over the last seven years than any other team (2 per season), yet no Super Bowl wins during that time.

Given the 3 previous Super Bowl wins and the fact that Belichick/Brady shouldn't be expected to be any worse in key games as they mature, it makes you wonder what the playoffs are testing?

Of course, if you anoint champions like college football does, you'd invite some legitimate anger.

I think most people have got it figured out by now that the best team rarely wins the Super Bowl. The hottest team or the hottest QB does, but generally not the best team. I still want the playoffs though. It'd be more accurate if there were best of 3's or something, but with the punishment that comes with the game, you don't get that and never will.

The Beli/Brady record is really amazing. They won 11 games the year Brady was hurt and missed the playoffs. Pretty amazing record.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Wasn't he still moving forward and not down yet?

How could the booth not review it?

Can they, it's all about the whistle blowing the play dead?

Looks like Perreira saying he felt should have been a fumble and KC TD. But forward progress not reviewable.

When it occurred, my feelings were Weddle didn't have the 1st initially. With a 2nd push, he gains 1st down, but also loses ball. If progress stopped, no first. If it's not, fumble. Can't really see another point progress stops.

[TroyF]

This Eagles offense is fun to watch. First half numbers:

16 pass attempts. 1 player targeted 4 times. 5 targeted 2 times. 1 targeted 1 time.

6 players with 2 catches. 1 player with 1 catch.

239 yards of offense, 0 turnovers.

Very, very nice.

[JPhillips]

2014 Draft Order

1. HOU, 2. STL (through WAS), 3. JAX, 4. CLE, 5. OAK, 6. ATL, 7. TBY, 8. MIN, 9. BUF, 10. DET, 11. TEN, 12. NYG. 13. STL, 14. CHI, 15. PIT... 20. ARI.

If Dallas wins: 16. BAL, 17. NYJ, 18. MIA, 19. PHI.

If Philadelphia wins: 16/17. DAL/BAL coin flip, 18. NYJ, 19. MIA.

STL is in a nice place to trade down and get a lot of picks. Someone is going to want Bridgewater or Clowney.

[Lathum]

I would imagine Houston takes Bridgewater. At the pace he is going I doubt anyone traders up for Clowney. My guess is Oakland takes him at 5

[BillJasper]

I would imagine Houston takes Bridgewater. At the pace he is going I doubt anyone traders up for Clowney. My guess is Oakland takes him at 5

I think Clowney is going to slide to the mid- or late-first round. There just seems to be some red flags around the guy and I'm sure NFL teams are likely going to dig up more.

I really expect him to be a bust unless he goes someplace with strong locker room leadership and a stable coaching staff.

[Matthean]

I'm just glad the Lions have invested enough into the DL that they would pass on him if need be.

[CU Tiger]

Rivera

Pro

Terrific finish (11-1 in last 12) Tons of publicity for pulling his head out of his cranium and getting some balls.


He he he

[cougarfreak]

Bengals/Chargers are kicking at 1 PM eastern time next Sunday? How in the heck does that make sense in terms of scheduling? Has a west coast team played in that time slot all year?

[Matthean]

Bengals/Chargers are kicking at 1 PM eastern time next Sunday? How in the heck does that make sense in terms of scheduling? Has a west coast team played in that time slot all year?

6th seed gets no sympathy.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

They didnt play as well in their last 6-7 games. I dont think that it is a secret. The defense started to show weakness. Did you think they played well the 2nd half of the season?

They are in the playoffs and in the NFL anything can happen but that defense needs to play like they did at the beginning of the season rather than at the end of the season if they want to have any success in the playoffs.

As I previously noted, the Chiefs are getting back two top players. Both of those guys have been injured for most of the past six games, which not coincidentally, is when they hit their slide. I think they will beat Indy and then we'll see what happens from there.

[SirFozzie]

Damnit, I need 15 more yards from Witten to win my non-FOFC league :)

[BillJasper]

Nice drive by the Eagles.

[Danny]

There you go fozzie

[SirFozzie]

The clock ref just screwed the Cowboys.

[TroyF]

As I previously noted, the Chiefs are getting back two top players. Both of those guys have been injured for most of the past six games, which not coincidentally, is when they hit their slide. I think they will beat Indy and then we'll see what happens from there.



Brandon Albert was fully healthy for both the Denver and San Diego losses. He was hurt in the second Denver loss. Justin Houston was fully healthy in the first Denver win when the Chiefs never touched Manning.

In the final four games the Chiefs played before his injury, he had 1.5 sacks and they gave up an average of over 380 yards a game. (which would rank as the 6th worst defense in the NFL over a full season. This was against the Broncos, Bills, Browns and Texans.

Besides, it isn't a sure thing either will come back at full strength. A rusty Albert gets to block a nasty pass rush in a loud dome for example. The Chiefs will be very lucky to win in Indy. Very, very lucky. Their only hope is Charles goes off. It could happen, but I wouldn't bet on it.

[TroyF]

I have to see the replay, but that sure looked like a late hit on the QB to me. They went at the head too. The Rodger one earlier I thought was insane. This one looked like a fairly obvious cheap shot. I'll be interested to see this replay. I think the Cowboys just caught a massive break.

New Orleans has to be thrilled at this. No doubt in my mind they want to play Dallas over Philly.

[Abe Sargent]

ANTI-climatic end there, but yay Eagels!

[RedKingGold]

JJ's reaction was priceless.

[Danny]

Orton just pulled a Romo

[Radii]

Eagles! Now beat the Saints please.

[BillJasper]

It is like Tony Romo was never hurt! :lol:

[TroyF]

Didn't look as bad on the replay. Still thought the second man in hit him in the head.

Orton with a horrible throw. No doubt in my mind Romo made that happen. It just has to be his fault.

[SirFozzie]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHhrZgojY1Q

Meet the new boss, same as the old boss.

We won't get fooled again.

[BillJasper]

It was a great game though.

[tucker rocky]

It is like Tony Romo was never hurt! :lol:

Kyle Orton channeling his inner Romo.

[RainMaker]

I have to see the replay, but that sure looked like a late hit on the QB to me. They went at the head too. The Rodger one earlier I thought was insane. This one looked like a fairly obvious cheap shot. I'll be interested to see this replay. I think the Cowboys just caught a massive break.


Foles isn't a big enough name to get that call.

[SirFozzie]

if the Steelers weren't bitter enough, the league is acknowledging that they should've penalized the Chargers five yards (and re kick) on the missed FG for an illegal defensive formation (seven men on one side of the ball)

[B & B]

Kyle Orton channeling his inner Romo.

http://cdn.meme.li/i/j6s3h.jpg

[SirFozzie]

Here's the story on the missed call (with photo evidence)

San Diego Chargers got away with uncalled penalty in win over Chiefs | Audibles - SI.com (http://nfl.si.com/2013/12/29/san-diego-chargers-uncalled-penalty-kansas-city-chiefs-missed-field-goal/)

[tucker rocky]

Chris Collinsworth sporting the "Mr. Rogers" sweater. :lol:

4959

[TroyF]

I'll change my coach of the year and give it to Chud.

I support the Nuggets and they knife me every year, but the Browns make the Nuggets look somewhat functional and lucky. Good lord. . .

[Desnudo]

Even more amazing: they have 14 more regular season wins over the last seven years than any other team (2 per season), yet no Super Bowl wins during that time.

Given the 3 previous Super Bowl wins and the fact that Belichick/Brady shouldn't be expected to be any worse in key games as they mature, it makes you wonder what the playoffs are testing?

Of course, if you anoint champions like college football does, you'd invite some legitimate anger.

I think the playoffs are testing too small of a sample size to draw any conclusions. Luck evens out over the course of a season or multiple seasons, but is magnified and uneven in one game or a short series of games. Which is why it's so hard to consistently win the Super Bowl year in and year out.

A better question to ask would be how Dallas manages to go at or around .500 nearly every season. That's probably less probable than winning a Super Bowl.

[tucker rocky]

4960

[cartman]

Is that Cornholio?

[tucker rocky]

4960

Is that Cornholio?

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-game-highlights/0ap2000000306463/Orton-throws-game-ending-interception

[Senator]

That's the grandson, who I coached. Dear God, the stories I could tell.

[M GO BLUE!!!]

Does anybody have any confidence in the Browns making a com pedant hire?

Or in the Lions firing Schwartz?

[RainMaker]

The Bears bad coaching staff came through again today. How does Mel Tucker have a job still?

[jbergey22]

The Bears bad coaching staff came through again today. How does Mel Tucker have a job still?

Imagine if the Bears actually did have bad coaching how much you would complain?

They were 1 stupid defensive play from winning the division. Not a bad season all in all considering talent and injuries. This is the reason they dont allow fans to hire/fire coaches. Unreasonable expectations.

[Matthean]

Does anybody have any confidence in the Browns making a com pedant hire?

Or in the Lions firing Schwartz?

If the Browns can't draft a quality QB, it won't matter.

[EagleFan]

That's the grandson, who I coached. Dear God, the stories I could tell.

Tell... tell

[Logan]

Here's the story on the missed call (with photo evidence)

San Diego Chargers got away with uncalled penalty in win over Chiefs | Audibles - SI.com (http://nfl.si.com/2013/12/29/san-diego-chargers-uncalled-penalty-kansas-city-chiefs-missed-field-goal/)

From the link...

Yes, it was still up to the Chiefs to take care of business in overtime, and you can bet that the NFL will take a hard look at how many key players Kansas City rested — after all, commissioner Roger Goodell has been talking for years about how he wants every game to be competitive.

Is that a fucking joke?

[EagleFan]

From the link...



Is that a fucking joke?

It's a blog post... enough said.

[EagleFan]

Here's the story on the missed call (with photo evidence)

San Diego Chargers got away with uncalled penalty in win over Chiefs | Audibles - SI.com (http://nfl.si.com/2013/12/29/san-diego-chargers-uncalled-penalty-kansas-city-chiefs-missed-field-goal/)

That's a blog. I see nothing about the league acknowledging it.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Only things I've seen so far have come from Mike Pereira, who isn't part of the shield any more.

[Logan]

It'll come today or tomorrow. The NFL doesn't usually comment publicly right away.

[panerd]

It's karma. Your coach wants to be part of the kickoff return then don't leave your playoff hopes up to a team that has zero reason to care about their week 17 game. (Or better yet lose less than 8 games... I bet Cardinal fans are real sympathetic to the Steeler's complaint)

[Suburban Rhythm]

As a Steelers fan, while I'd like to watch them play another week, this is better for them. They need to trim some fat and move forward.

Still doesn't condone the league regularly having suspect calls by their officials to issue apologizes for the following day.

[panerd]

From the link...



Is that a fucking joke?

I think the NFL postseason has the best setup of all of the sports (though baseball is much improved with the play-in game). That said if they don't want teams resting their players in week 17 than give an 11-4 team something to play for and get rid of the divisional home field advantage. Fuck Godell if he is going to stand there with a straight face and blast KC while Arizona gets left out of the playoffs at 10-6 and Green Bay hosts a playoff game to a team with 4 more wins.

[panerd]

As a Steelers fan, while I'd like to watch them play another week, this is better for them. They need to trim some fat and move forward.

Still doesn't condone the league regularly having suspect calls by their officials to issue apologizes for the following day.

Suspect meaning bad or are you implying the league would rather have San Diego in the playoffs than Pittsburgh? I'll give you choice #1 but #2 is laughable.

[weegeebored]

Imagine if the Bears actually did have bad coaching how much you would complain?

They were 1 stupid defensive play from winning the division. Not a bad season all in all considering talent and injuries. This is the reason they dont allow fans to hire/fire coaches. Unreasonable expectations.Really? You're going to stick with that? One stupid defensive play? You must only watch one or two plays from national games to be able to make that statement about the Bears coaching staff. Good staffs don't use injuries as an excuse. And the Bears should have put up 40+ against that GB defense. I'll just put it this way -- this staff is the flip side of the Lovie coin. All offense, no defense. But still the same coin, so we still have stupid coaching. The only reason Trestman doesn't have the deer-in-the-headlights look is because he has his play sheet in front of his face. They had a chance to get Arians (in the conversation for CotY), but they get this nimrod from the CFL. Didn't he hire the great Mel Tucker from that perennial powerhouse in Jacksonville? No playoffs again. Enough said.

[jbergey22]

Really? You're going to stick with that? One stupid defensive play? You must only watch one or two plays from national games to be able to make that statement about the Bears coaching staff. Good staffs don't use injuries as an excuse. And the Bears should have put up 40+ against that GB defense. I'll just put it this way -- this staff is the flip side of the Lovie coin. All offense, no defense. But still the same coin, so we still have stupid coaching. The only reason Trestman doesn't have the deer-in-the-headlights look is because he has his play sheet in front of his face. They had a chance to get Arians (in the conversation for CotY), but they get this nimrod from the CFL. Didn't he hire the great Mel Tucker from that perennial powerhouse in Jacksonville? No playoffs again. Enough said.

That Chicago weather must be tough on some of you guys. Mel Tucker was actually a fairly hot coaching prospect until he came to a team with very little defensive talent. I guess this is why the Bears have very little consistency in their organization The Bears finally get in a fresh group of coaches and some of the fans wont even give them a chance to have success before they will be pushed out to better organizations like the Pats. I personally hope these coaches do get pushed out the door so the Bears can go back to their 1970s brand of football and one less threat in the NFC North to worry about.

Not saying fan bases of other teams are a whole lot better but most of them at least give a coach 2-3 years before crapping all over them. Trestman gets crapped on halfway through his first season in which they were 1 play from making the playoffs. I wouldnt want to coach in Chicago if you represent even 1/3 of the fanbase and their feelings.

[Butter]

The next time I cry about the Steelers getting screwed by the refs blowing a call will be the first.

That said, when I watched the Chargers fake punt, I told my son that the Steelers just made the playoffs. I don't know how they blew that play dead.

[BillJasper]

That said, when I watched the Chargers fake punt, I told my son that the Steelers just made the playoffs. I don't know how they blew that play dead.

I told my wife the same thing. :lol:

[weegeebored]

That Chicago weather must be tough on some of you guys. Mel Tucker was actually a fairly hot coaching prospect until he came to a team with very little defensive talent. I guess this is why the Bears have very little consistency in their organization The Bears finally get in a fresh group of coaches and some of the fans wont even give them a chance to have success before they will be pushed out to better organizations like the Pats. I personally hope these coaches do get pushed out the door so the Bears can go back to their 1970s brand of football and one less threat in the NFC North to worry about.No consistency? Huh? Your definition must be different than the rest of the world. Lovie was with the Bears for nine seasons. And Angelo was the GM from 2001 through 2011. If anything, they were in their jobs way too long. Even Jauron and Wannstedt were given ample time to show what they could do. And they did -- they sucked. (Also see the Buffalo and Miami teams when they coached there.) You want Trestman? You can have his lame ass. He's from Minnesota so you can have all the bad football you want. He's the quarterback whisperer, you know. He can turn Ponder into Joe Montana. :banghead:

[BillJasper]

No consistency? Huh? Your definition must be different than the rest of the world. Lovie was with the Bears for nine seasons. And Angelo was the GM from 2001 through 2011. If anything, they were in their jobs way too long. Even Jauron and Wannstedt were given ample time to show what they could do. And they did -- they sucked. (Also see the Buffalo and Miami teams when they coached there.) You want Trestman? You can have his lame ass. He's from Minnesota so you can have all the bad football you want. He's the quarterback whisperer, you know. He can turn Ponder into Joe Montana. :banghead:

The Bears finished 8-8 with a ton of injuries. I think it would be fair to give Trestman one more year before declaring him a total failure as an NFL head coach. At least the Bears looked interested in playing football yesterday.

[jbergey22]

No consistency? Huh? Your definition must be different than the rest of the world. Lovie was with the Bears for nine seasons. And Angelo was the GM from 2001 through 2011. If anything, they were in their jobs way too long. Even Jauron and Wannstedt were given ample time to show what they could do. And they did -- they sucked. (Also see the Buffalo and Miami teams when they coached there.) You want Trestman? You can have his lame ass. He's from Minnesota so you can have all the bad football you want. He's the quarterback whisperer, you know. He can turn Ponder into Joe Montana. :banghead:

The real consistency in Chicago is every coach sucks, right?

Maybe they can get Ditka out of retirement.

[weegeebored]

The real consistency in Chicago is every coach sucks, right?

Maybe they can get Ditka out of retirement.What a witty retort.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Suspect meaning bad or are you implying the league would rather have San Diego in the playoffs than Pittsburgh? I'll give you choice #1 but #2 is laughable.

Clearly #1

Alot of it is related to every one of us at home being an expert now, with multiple replay angles, but seems like every week there are calls that leave the majority of people scratching their heads.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Clearly #1

Alot of it is related to every one of us at home being an expert now, with multiple replay angles, but seems like every week there are calls that leave the majority of people scratching their heads.

Can't get worked up about it too much. There were two key SD runs where there was a clear holding call in both cases right where the hole was made in the line. It sucks, but that's the way it is. To be honest, I'm surprised that they get as many calls right as they do, given the speed of the game and how many players they have to watch.

[weegeebored]

The Bears finished 8-8 with a ton of injuries. I think it would be fair to give Trestman one more year before declaring him a total failure as an NFL head coach. At least the Bears looked interested in playing football yesterday.I understand what you're saying, and of course Chicago will be stuck with him until his contract is up. (The McCaskeys are known as being notoriously...um...thrifty.) But I am amazed at the love that he gets because of the improved offense. He did inherit a lot of improvements -- a revamped (good) OL, a 2nd year beast in Jeffrey, a better tight end -- so it's hard to really measure his impact in any real sense. It's a little easier to measure his poor coaching decisions. It's notable that you wrote that at least the Bears looked interested in playing yesterday. It's obvious what the implication of your statement is, especially following that debacle against the Eagles. I will file that under the "lack of preparedness" column. Not the only time that has happened this year. So this coach-love reminds me of the movie Shallow Hal, without the positive message -- people are seeing what they want to see. I guess an improved offense is enough for most to cover up all of the other nasty coaching blemishes.

[BillJasper]

So this coach-love reminds me of the movie Shallow Hal, without the positive message -- people are seeing what they want to see. I guess an improved offense is enough for most to cover up all of the other nasty coaching blemishes.

I don't think it's "coach love", it's just a realization that a guy needs to have more than one-year before writing him off completely. The Bears had some big ups and downs under a new coach, I think that happens to every team that brings in a new guy.

For the record, I don't think the Browns should've fired Chudzinski after one season. Even though I was scratching my head when they hired him.

[SirFozzie]

Only things I've seen so far have come from Mike Pereira, who isn't part of the shield any more.

original report was from Mike Florio (PFT/NBC post game show)

[BillJasper]

NFL admits officials screwed up and Succop should've gotten to attempt another FG.

[DaddyTorgo]

NFL admits officials screwed up and Succop should've gotten to attempt another FG.

What they really should do in this instance since it was a game-ending play with playoff implications is get all the players back out there on the field and let him attempt the FG again from the new spot after the penalty and then just wipe the overtime from the books assuming that he makes it.

Get it right NFL.

[Logan]

No thanks.

[SnowMan]

The delicious irony of the Stealers getting screwed by Bill Leavy.

[Thomkal]

It's karma. Your coach wants to be part of the kickoff return then don't leave your playoff hopes up to a team that has zero reason to care about their week 17 game. (Or better yet lose less than 8 games... I bet Cardinal fans are real sympathetic to the Steeler's complaint)


Oh very sympathetic. :rant:

[BillJasper]

I can understand missing a call when a play is in motion because of how fast the game has gotten. But I don't understand how they can miss such an obvious call before the play even starts?

[gstelmack]

Did the seven on one side end up impacting the actual FG attempt? If not I'm fine with the no-call.

[Logan]

Did the seven on one side end up impacting the actual FG attempt? If not I'm fine with the no-call.

Well, they overloaded the left side (kicker perspective) because the ball was on the right hash. And he missed it wide right, so you could make the case that he was worried about it getting blocked from that side.

But that shouldn't matter. There's a lot of rules that are judgmental, but this isn't one.

[BillJasper]

Did the seven on one side end up impacting the actual FG attempt? If not I'm fine with the no-call.

Tough to say? Succop pushed the ball to the right and the Chargers overloaded to his left.

[Thomkal]

I hope that bad call in the San Diego game, one that potentially affected a playoff spot in the last week of the season, is the call that lights a fire under the NFL and Players Association to finally improve the skill level of its umpires.

[gstelmack]

That said if they don't want teams resting their players in week 17 than give an 11-4 team something to play for and get rid of the divisional home field advantage. Fuck Godell if he is going to stand there with a straight face and blast KC while Arizona gets left out of the playoffs at 10-6 and Green Bay hosts a playoff game to a team with 4 more wins.

I hate this complaint with a passion. Until they have more balanced schedules (i.e. teams being compared for byes, seeding, and homefield play the same teams), I don't want to hear the whining about 8-8 hosting 12-4 or whatever. They didn't play the same team, so the divisions rule all.

My suggestion to fix it is in this day and age of TV and Internet letting folks pick who they want to watch, you don't need teams rotating through stadiums like the old days (and it doesn't really happen all the time, witness Indy at New England how many years in a row, no New England in Indy), so don't worry about rotating teams to play against each other. 2 conferences, 2 divisions in each conference, 8 teams per division. Scheduling is play each team in your division twice (14 games), then spend the other 2 against the other division. Don't play the other conference at all. Schedules are MUCH closer, and the only real home field issue is the conference championship.

[Logan]

I hate this complaint with a passion. Until they have more balanced schedules (i.e. teams being compared for byes, seeding, and homefield play the same teams), I don't want to hear the whining about 8-8 hosting 12-4 or whatever. They didn't play the same team, so the divisions rule all.

My suggestion to fix it is in this day and age of TV and Internet letting folks pick who they want to watch, you don't need teams rotating through stadiums like the old days (and it doesn't really happen all the time, witness Indy at New England how many years in a row, no New England in Indy), so don't worry about rotating teams to play against each other. 2 conferences, 2 divisions in each conference, 8 teams per division. Scheduling is play each team in your division twice (14 games), then spend the other 2 against the other division. Don't play the other conference at all. Schedules are MUCH closer, and the only real home field issue is the conference championship.

I'd rather we just keep it as is and not worry about the anomalies. Not sure if I saw it here or somewhere else...but the Saints were a monster favorite over the awful NFC West champ Seahawks a few years back and look what happened.

[jbergey22]

I don't think it's "coach love", it's just a realization that a guy needs to have more than one-year before writing him off completely. The Bears had some big ups and downs under a new coach, I think that happens to every team that brings in a new guy.

For the record, I don't think the Browns should've fired Chudzinski after one season. Even though I was scratching my head when they hired him.

Indeed.

He doesnt even have the players to fit into his system yet. Giving a new coach a chance to evolve with his type of players would be a good start to see how successful and he can and will be.

That defense really needs to be revamped. Lovie got the most he could out of that aging defense but now the time has come for some changes on that end of the ball.

Anyway, sick of discussing the Bears(who were 1 play from the playoffs) and their problems. Plenty of other teams will REAL problems we could be discussing;)

[cuervo72]

Teams know what the deal is going in, it's not as if playoff selections are some huge mystery. Things eventually even out anyway - Arizona was just as fortunate in 2008 as they may be considered unfortunate now.

[RainMaker]

Imagine if the Bears actually did have bad coaching how much you would complain?

They were 1 stupid defensive play from winning the division. Not a bad season all in all considering talent and injuries. This is the reason they dont allow fans to hire/fire coaches. Unreasonable expectations.

The 47 yard field goal on 2nd down against the Vikings and removing an injured QB against the Lions would have won them the division too.

The defense has been a disaster all season. Worst in franchise history and broke some other modern records. Mel Tucker was a shit coach in Jacksonville and is a shit coach in Chicago. Why is it wrong to want to get rid of him as the defensive coordinator?

[RainMaker]

The Bears finished 8-8 with a ton of injuries. I think it would be fair to give Trestman one more year before declaring him a total failure as an NFL head coach. At least the Bears looked interested in playing football yesterday.

I'm fine with keeping Trestman. The offense improved a great deal and this league is about offense for the most part. He made some huge mistakes that did cost them the division (Minnesota, Detroit). I'm hoping those were first year jitters and he improves in his game decisions.

Mel Tucker is who needs to go. The defense was historically bad, young players didn't improve at all, and players had no idea where to go half the time. I understand injuries and some talent gaps, but when players don't know where they are supposed to be it's on the coaching staff. That final play against Green Bay was just something we've seen all season long from his defense.

[jbergey22]

Why is it wrong to want to get rid of him as the defensive coordinator?

Oh, nothing at all. Just keep playing musical chairs with coaches for a few years. Building a winning system and bringing in players to fit that system is overrated.

[RainMaker]

Oh, nothing at all. Just keep playing musical chairs with coaches for a few years. Building a winning system and bringing in players to fit that system is overrated.

Well they seem to have fixed the offensive side of the ball. Why not fix the defensive side of the ball? The team is rebuilding on that side and will likely have a whole new batch of players. What is it Mel Tucker is bringing to the Bears organization? His defenses were terrible in Jacksonville and his defense in Chicago broke franchise records for futility.

Keeping a terrible coach for continuity seems like a bad idea.

[hoopsguy]

The 47 yard field goal on 2nd down against the Vikings and removing an injured QB against the Lions would have won them the division too.

The defense has been a disaster all season. Worst in franchise history and broke some other modern records. Mel Tucker was a shit coach in Jacksonville and is a shit coach in Chicago. Why is it wrong to want to get rid of him as the defensive coordinator?

DeCamillis first. Tucker second. That would be my "send 'em packing" list.

[jbergey22]

Well they seem to have fixed the offensive side of the ball. Why not fix the defensive side of the ball? The team is rebuilding on that side and will likely have a whole new batch of players. What is it Mel Tucker is bringing to the Bears organization? His defenses were terrible in Jacksonville and his defense in Chicago broke franchise records for futility.

Keeping a terrible coach for continuity seems like a bad idea.

He wasnt considered terrible 1 year ago.

Its odd how bad players can make a coach terrible. Can you believe Bill Bellichek was probably considered terrible at one time also? I think for some reason you think the Bears have talent on defense in which they dont. Lovie used pure magic to get that defense to play good the past few years.

[RainMaker]

He wasnt considered terrible 1 year ago.

Its odd how bad players can make a coach terrible. Can you believe Bill Bellichek was probably considered terrible at one time also? I think for some reason you think the Bears have talent on defense in which they dont. Lovie used pure magic to get that defense to play good the past few years.

He might not have been considered terrible a year ago, but he was. He has only had a defense outside the bottom 5 in DVOA one time in his career. That's horrendous.

And like I said, it's not about talent for me. The defense didn't know where to be half the time. That's on the coach. The team was missing 4 starters by the end of the year. I understand that's bad, but there are other teams in that spot that didn't turn to complete trash.

[Buccaneer]

Give me a frickin' break about playoffs seeding. The nfl has the best system to where you can deep in the tie-breaker criteria - unlike college where you barely get past the first one or two. Divisions in sports have always ruled because teams play more games there than any other group. If anything, they should go back to fewer playoffs team but the unfortunate trend in sports is to let nearly everyone into the post-season.

[BillJasper]

If anything, they should go back to fewer playoffs team but the unfortunate trend in sports is to let nearly everyone into the post-season.

I wish they'd go back to each conference having three divisions and two wild-cards, though I know that's impractical with 32 teams.