2014 NFL Playoffs Thread

[SirFozzie]

Is it my computer, or did it get very foggy in Philly ?

[Tigercat]

This has been one of the best leadoff playoff days that I can remember.

[Danny]

Unfortunately that probably means tomorrows games will suck

[Izulde]

Is it my computer, or did it get very foggy in Philly ?

I wondered the same thing about the TV.

[claphamsa]

Is it my computer, or did it get very foggy in Philly ?

I thought it was smoke... probably a shitty camera

[Danny]

Philly needs to just let them score

[claphamsa]

shayne Graham is due a massive choke here... been doing it his whole career.

[Danny]

I don't understand why teams with offenses that are streaking dont let the other team score

[EagleFan]

They far surpassed my expectations so regardless of the outcome of this kick it was a successful season.

[EagleFan]

The way Collingsworth was talking you would swear the kicker had never kicked before in his life.

[Matthean]

I don't understand why teams with offenses that are streaking dont let the other team score

You want to be forced to score a TD in that weather?

[Danny]

Should have let them score after the sproles return

[cuervo72]

They far surpassed my expectations so regardless of the outcome of this kick it was a successful season.

This was my view going in. Assumed they would lose, just wanted them to look respectable. This wasn't supposed to be a year to go far, especially with a first-year coach. Season was a success.

[Danny]

You want to be forced to score a TD in that weather?

You mean after the eagles scores 2 tds and a field goal the last three drives after Keenan Lewis went out? Yes

[Abe Sargent]

Fun Day!

[EagleFan]

You mean after the eagles scores 2 tds and a field goal the last three drives after Keenan Lewis went out? Yes

Only point where they are in let them score range is the third down QB sneak and that is kind of hard to let him score on.

[CraigSca]

I don't understand why teams with offenses that are streaking dont let the other team score

I would assume because the first coach that does this and his team fails to score a TD for the comeback would probably be fired.

[TroyF]

I would assume because the first coach that does this and his team fails to score a TD for the comeback would probably be fired.

It's happened before. Mike Holmgren let the Broncos score a TD to make it 31-24 in the Super Bowl. When Mobley deflected a fourth down pass, Denver won their first title. Holmgren did not get fired.

[TroyF]

It happened another time. Cannot remember the teams, but it was from 10 to 15 yards out and the RB kneeled on the one before going in.

[Danny]

It happened another time. Cannot remember the teams, it was from 10 to 15 yards out and the RB kneeled on the one before going in.

That was Ahmad Bradshaw. I'm guessing some would go in, sme would fall down. I think if you let them score early enough and made it look real most would go into the endzone

[Lathum]

It happened another time. Cannot remember the teams, but it was from 10 to 15 yards out and the RB kneeled on the one before going in.

That was Ahmad Bradshaw. I'm guessing some would go in, sme would fall down. I think if you let them score early enough and made it look real most would go into the endzone

Bradshaw scored.He tried to kind of stop his momentum/ kneel down and just toppled over into the endzone.

[Matthean]

But has anybody let the team score and yet come back and win?

[Cap Ologist]

It happened another time. Cannot remember the teams, but it was from 10 to 15 yards out and the RB kneeled on the one before going in.

I think it was Brian Westbrook against the Cowboys.

[BishopMVP]

But has anybody let the team score and yet come back and win?Belichick had that game where he took the intentional safety with under 3 minutes left, and effectively gave the Saints a FG in that crazy comeback earlier this year, and if any coach had the balls and job security to do it he would but I can't remember him actually doing it. Closest was the 2006 AFC Championship Game (http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=270121011) when Manning beat us for the first time, and many people were arguing we should have let the Colts score earlier on their last drive, but we were up 3 at the time, so playing D was the right call imo.One thing I noticed about the fans in this.. They never once got quiet, even when the Colts were down 28. Those are the kind of fans every team wants.That guy who pumps in the crowd noise really is the Colts MVP :p Peyton Manning and Tom Brady will be eager to meet either of these defenses. It's like arena ball.Shurg - I just don't see much carryover week to week at this point. The Colts D that showed up today, and gave up 105 points to St. Louis/Tennessee/Arizona could show up, or the one that held SF and KC (all of 2 weeks ago) to 7 points could. I think I'm rooting for San Diego today, but it really doesn't seem to matter. Unless I'm mistaken (was one of those Giants teams a division winner?) we've been knocked out by wild card teams all 5 years since that 2006 AFCCG.

[BishopMVP]

I think it was Brian Westbrook against the Cowboys.Definitely was Westbrook, and I think in Week 15 or 16 (aka FF playoff week). I can remember the fantasy football outcry :lol:

Worst Moment in Fantasy Football History - YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkrRTYbVmpU)

[ColtCrazy]

Went to the Colts game….amazing crowd and just a crazy game. Funny thing…no one left. Even after the second half pick, you could hear people saying "Well, if we could score here" Luck definitely has given the feeling that anything is possible in the second half.

And for the point out of bad QBs, I'll admit we have it good with Manning/Luck but I've been going to games since Indy arrived in town. We had a 10 year stretch of:

Mike Pagel, Art Schlichter, Mark Hermann, Matt Kofler, Jack Trudeau, Gary Hogeboom, Blair Kiel, Chris Chandler, Tom Ramsey, Jeff George, Browning Nagle, and post-injury Don Majkowski before finally getting Jim Harbaugh.

[panerd]

Went to the Colts game….amazing crowd and just a crazy game. Funny thing…no one left. Even after the second half pick, you could hear people saying "Well, if we could score here" Luck definitely has given the feeling that anything is possible in the second half.

And for the point out of bad QBs, I'll admit we have it good with Manning/Luck but I've been going to games since Indy arrived in town. We had a 10 year stretch of:

Mike Pagel, Art Schlichter, Mark Hermann, Matt Kofler, Jack Trudeau, Gary Hogeboom, Blair Kiel, Chris Chandler, Tom Ramsey, Jeff George, Browning Nagle, and post-injury Don Majkowski before finally getting Jim Harbaugh.

In tournaments with my friends I was always the Colts in Tecmo Bowl. Trudeau had a lot of TDs to Beach. I think they thought I would use Dickerson more.

[Blackadar]

Went to the Colts game….amazing crowd and just a crazy game. Funny thing…no one left. Even after the second half pick, you could hear people saying "Well, if we could score here" Luck definitely has given the feeling that anything is possible in the second half.

And for the point out of bad QBs, I'll admit we have it good with Manning/Luck but I've been going to games since Indy arrived in town. We had a 10 year stretch of:

Mike Pagel, Art Schlichter, Mark Hermann, Matt Kofler, Jack Trudeau, Gary Hogeboom, Blair Kiel, Chris Chandler, Tom Ramsey, Jeff George, Browning Nagle, and post-injury Don Majkowski before finally getting Jim Harbaugh.

Yeah, it could be worse. From 1983 -2003 the Steelers had the following guys at QB throw at least 50 passes in a season:

Cliff Stoud
Mark Malone
David Woodley
Scott Campbell
Bubby Brister
Steve Bono
Todd Blackledge
Neil O'Donnell
Mike Tomczak
Jim Miller
Kordell Stewart
Kent Graham
Tommy Maddox

This is not a good thing. I'm sure other teams had it worse during some stretches, but that's a 20 year run of QB futility between Terry Bradshaw and Big Ben.

[Abe Sargent]

Yeah, it could be worse. From 1983 -2003 the Steelers had the following guys at QB throw at least 50 passes in a season:

Cliff Stoud
Mark Malone
David Woodley
Scott Campbell
Bubby Brister
Steve Bono
Todd Blackledge
Neil O'Donnell
Mike Tomczak
Jim Miller
Kordell Stewart
Kent Graham
Tommy Maddox

This is not a good thing. I'm sure other teams had it worse during some stretches, but that's a 20 year run of QB futility between Terry Bradshaw and Big Ben.


Yeah, I really feel for you when you were making the playoffs regularly and a Super Bowl once during that run... ;)

[Abe Sargent]

LET's GO BENGALS!!!!!!!!!!!!

[claphamsa]

Crunch goes rivers!

[claphamsa]

Kinda disappointed about the weather...

[BishopMVP]

Yeah, I really feel for you when you were making the playoffs regularly and a Super Bowl once during that run...Yeah... Neil O'Donnell especially stands out on that list. Even Bono, Brister, Miller, Stewart and Maddox all had a decent season or two somewhere.

[Lathum]

Kinda disappointed about the weather...

Me too

[Lathum]

lets see if the Bengals tighten up here. This next drive will say a lot about Andy Dalton

[Bigsmooth]

lets see if the Bengals tighten up here. This next drive will say a lot about Andy Dalton

There's your answer. Airballs an easy pass to Bernard for a 1st down...

[JPhillips]

It's still early, but the Bengals aren't very inspiring right now. The defense has to get better if they are going to win.

[JPhillips]

There's your answer. Airballs an easy pass to Bernard for a 1st down...

So far he has a fumbled snap, a ball way high, a ball wide right, and a knocked down screen pass.

[BillJasper]

I'm of the opinion that if there's holding on the receiving team during a fair catch that the flag should be picked up.

[Abe Sargent]

TD baby

[JPhillips]

Nice play by Dalton on the TD.

[Bigsmooth]

Nice play by Dalton on the TD.

No doubt. Have a feeling this game is about to landslide on the Chargers...

[JPhillips]

What a catch by Jones.

[TroyF]

I swear, NFL coaches need a freakin challenge, end of game clock management advisor at all times. He just challenged a 1st and 10 throw out of field goal range. What was the gain there? You 100% sure to stop them on 2 downs? You 100% sure you can't stop them from scoring?

Save your time out, save your challenge. It may come in handy down the road. It's amazing seeing highly paid coaches not get the little things right. They wouldn't accept that from their players, yet they get caught up in the moment and do it themselves. Last week, McCarthy easily could have cost the Packers a game when he didn't go for two.

The funny thing is, they'll criticize Reid for giving up a TO late in yesterdays game. A time out that was meaningless.l They pick up the first down, they are in field goal range and will want to run out the clock for the win. They don't pick it up, their one time out will not be enough to get the ball back anyway.

They should have been all over McCoy there and not on Reid last night, instead we see it go the other way.

[BillJasper]

Looks like a fumble to me.

[claphamsa]

yeah :(

[Desnudo]

Really disliked that play calling by San Diego. Basically conceding a field goal when you have a great QB on the field.

[Suicane75]

You're an 8-8 team lucky to make the playoffs, perhaps you could look a little more interested in doing something more than making Cinci burn their timeouts.

[claphamsa]

tate needs to stop running backwards!

[kingfc22]

That was not a catch.

[Desnudo]

San Diego bailed out by a terrible punt return and Marvin Lewis school of clock mgmt.

[claphamsa]

he was out of bounds before he lost it, so its not like megatron, who lost it in-bounds.

[ColtCrazy]

He gets the ball, gets two feet down, then goes out of bounds. Should be a catch. But this is Triplette so who knows.

[claphamsa]

and they got a play off before it was reviewed... right?

[panerd]

Don't understand what is going on. The Bengals ran a play.

[kingfc22]

he was out of bounds before he lost it, so its not like megatron, who lost it in-bounds.

NFL and there crazy loopholes. I guess it is better to end up out of bounds then on catches.

[Jas_lov]

If the spike happened then they shouldn't have been able to review the play. If they're saying the spike play never happened so they could review the catch then why wasn't the clock put back to 13 seconds? Why is Triplette calling a playoff game?

[Logan]

Someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but I think there's no such thing as "getting a play off before it can be reviewed" when it's coming from upstairs, as opposed to a coach throwing the red flag.

[claphamsa]

the last question is the most germane :)

[panerd]

Someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but I think there's no such thing as "getting a play off before it can be reviewed" when it's coming from upstairs, as opposed to a coach throwing the red flag.

That could be but the there should have been about ten seconds on the clock instead of nonsense where they had to quickly snap the ball.

[Logan]

That could be but the there should have been about ten seconds on the clock instead of nonsense where they had to quickly snap the ball.

Just saw Perreira say on Twitter that the clock could only be changed if there was a reversal of the replay.

[BillJasper]

Just saw Perreira say on Twitter that the clock could only be changed if there was a reversal of the replay.

Which makes no sense? They initiated the replay, shouldn't the clock be reset to the end of the play being reviewed?

[Glengoyne]

[QUOTE=Jas_lov;2890293...Why is Triplette calling a playoff game?[/QUOTE]


By far the most troubling information I've heard this week

[BillJasper]

I really thought the Bengals would blow the Chargers out. Shows what I know. :lol:

[kingfc22]

Oh Andy Dalton...

[tucker rocky]

Bengals being the Bungles.

[DougW]

How does the NFL do the playoffs now ? Is it a reseat, or a straight bracket ? And, who do the Saints have next ?

[JPhillips]

The Bengals are getting killed at the line.

[BillJasper]

How does the NFL do the playoffs now ? Is it a reseat, or a straight bracket ? And, who do the Saints have next ?

Saints go to Seattle.

[Dutch]

Dalton under pressure throws off his back foot into traffic for the pick. At least he avoided the sack...which was his primary goal apparently.

[JPhillips]

I don't know how the Bengals can get over the hump. Dalton can't do it, but where do they get a better QB?

[BillJasper]

Damn Dalton.

[kingfc22]

Horrible pass. Chargers need to get 7 here.

[whomario]

I don't know how the Bengals can get over the hump. Dalton can't do it, but where do they get a better QB?

He´s in his 3rd year, not his 10th.

[JPhillips]

He´s in his 3rd year, not his 10th.

How many years of too many turnovers and lack of pocket presence do you need? With all the young talent on this team the window will close over the next three years as extensions have to be handed out.

[kingfc22]

Bengals defense keeping them in it and preventing a blowout. A TD drive here and things will get real interesting.

[rowech]

How many years of too many turnovers and lack of pocket presence do you need? With all the young talent on this team the window will close over the next three years as extensions have to be handed out.

They need to realize he is not Brees, Manning, or Brady and give him an offense that is more to his skills. They also need to run the ball. Gruden is beyond overrated. The fumble was horrible, the pick was more on the o-line.

Like somebody said, you aren't getting better than Dalton in free agency and more than likely not in the draft so you have to adjust somehow.

This loss is beyond disappointing.

[JPhillips]

In some ways it was easier to be a Bengals fan when they completely stunk. Watching them blow it year after year in the playoffs is agonizing.

[rowech]

And let's forget the Benard fumble which was the real play that changed the game.

[kingfc22]

So when does Dalton begin to be ripped apart like Romo does?

He's single handedly losing this game for Cincy.

[JPhillips]

And that does it for me.

[Jas_lov]

Could have been a ball game. God Andy Dalton is bad. Time to fire Marvin and get a winning QB.

[JPhillips]

So when does Dalton begin to be ripped apart like Romo?

You must not be paying attention. Dalton's been killed since the first Houston loss.

[tucker rocky]

Looking more like SD advancing to play Denver, sending the Colts to NE.

[BillJasper]

Dalton is having a tough day and pretty much handing the game to the Chargers. But I'm not sure I'd be ready to throw him overboard.

He's just maddeningly inconsistent at this point in his career. The coaching staff gets paid to fix it.

[tucker rocky]

Could have been a ball game. God Andy Dalton is bad. Time to fire Marvin and get a winning QB.

Marvin will get a vote of confidence.

[frnk55]

Fat lady hasn't sang yet....

[BillJasper]

Fat lady hasn't sang yet....

Indeed. Colts were down by a far larger margin and Luck threw 3 INT's.

[tucker rocky]

Fat lady hasn't sang yet....

Bengals need to get out of the kitchen baking up turnovers. :lol:

[BillJasper]

I wish Dalton would quit sliding head first!

[BillJasper]

Oh, A.J.!

[Abe Sargent]

Wow, what a let down Andy



EDIT - This could have been Andy Dalton's statement game. I'm here NFL, deal with me! Instead its another statement game. Yet again.

[kingfc22]

4th and 3 and you go deep???

[frnk55]

Wow, can you overthrow it a bit more?

[Bobble]

What was THAT!!??!

[Galaril]

Dalton what a dumbass launch a bomb into double coverage when you need 3 on 4th down.

[BillJasper]

Not a Bengals fan, but I'm really disappointed in how they've played today.

[Galaril]

4th and 3 and you go deep???

Yeah many thought exactly. F'ing moron.

[claphamsa]

season :(

[Bigsmooth]

Horrible decision. Green can't run a slant or even run a route over the middle? Unreal.

[claphamsa]

Dalton what a dumbass launch a bomb into double coverage when you need 3 on 4th down.

then miss by 15 yards... at least try to get it close!

[Jas_lov]

Two chances to get 3 yards and that idiot throws it deep twice. He could have ran for the 1st down.

[Julio Riddols]

Man, the line hasn't helped much, but Dalton just won't give me a break. I keep thinking he is going to break out at some point.. But he'll have to get over this hot and cold shit he has been pulling. Can't win a title without consistency.

[Bigsmooth]

Only thing left for Dalton is a pick-six. I fully expect it here.

[Bigsmooth]

Seriously though, have the Bengals completed even one pass over the middle other than a dump to Bernard?

[BillJasper]

Oh god! Chargers are playing fucking prevent with four minutes left!

[kingfc22]

Kaepernick going without sleeves. Not sure how smart that is when it's near zero.

[BillJasper]

Knife meet heart.

[Abe Sargent]

Well, at least there were good games yesterday!

[tucker rocky]

4978

[TroyF]

Chargers have scared me all year. Said they'd beat the Chiefs twice on here in week 8 I believe. Said I was more worried of them than the Chiefs when it came to an AFC west team beating Denver. San Diego beat Denver. The boys better be ready next week. San Diego is a tough football team and their D is playing very well.

Denver will be much healthier than they were in that San Diego loss, but I think every team has injuries at this time of year. It's also my worst nightmare as a fan. Chiefs beat Denver? Not happy, but I like Smith and Reid, at least I'm happy for them. Patriots beat Denver? Really pissed, but they are the Patriots.It happens. Indy beats Denver? So be it. Luck is a good QB, fair play.

Crybaby, dirtbag, jack ass, whiny little bitch Rivers beats us? Oh, God, that might be too much to bare.

[Julio Riddols]

Really outstanding game plan by the Chargers this week, great adjustments at halftime, but when you only have to throw 16 times to put up 27 points, I think it says something about having a good plan coming in.

I think if Bernard doesn't fumble early we might have had a different game, but it seems like setbacks like that still trigger a "here we go again" response in the players. I don't want Marvin to go, I also don't want to lose Zimmer, but I almost hope this somehow jolts the team to talk to Marvin about running the show as GM while Zim takes over the HC duties. His son can move to DC, and if Gruden goes anywhere, I like Hue Jackson as an OC. I also think there is more to come. Dalton did get better this year, and the team actually put up some yards in the postseason for the first time in a while, but the young team mistakes like unforced fumbles and rushed throws into coverage need to get ironed out soon. My rope is a pretty long one, but I'm getting fairly close to the end of it. If after year 5 of the Dalton era we still haven't won a playoff game, I'll be done with it. I'll just cut my emotional attachment to any team and enjoy football for what it is.

That was also an insanely huge drop by A.J. on the late deep ball. He makes that routine catch and we have a new ball game. His talent is evident, but he is sometimes far less aggressive to the ball than he should be.

[BlackJack]

Dalton. Can't win with him. Can't do it.

[Thomkal]

Poor job by the Bengals-at home against an 8-8 team and don't get it done. Until Dalton shows he can win these kind of games, can't ever pick Cincy to win a playoff game.

[jbergey22]

Chargers have scared me all year. Said they'd beat the Chiefs twice on here in week 8 I believe. Said I was more worried of them than the Chiefs when it came to an AFC west team beating Denver. San Diego beat Denver. The boys better be ready next week. San Diego is a tough football team and their D is playing very well.

Denver will be much healthier than they were in that San Diego loss, but I think every team has injuries at this time of year. It's also my worst nightmare as a fan. Chiefs beat Denver? Not happy, but I like Smith and Reid, at least I'm happy for them. Patriots beat Denver? Really pissed, but they are the Patriots.It happens. Indy beats Denver? So be it. Luck is a good QB, fair play.

Crybaby, dirtbag, jack ass, whiny little bitch Rivers beats us? Oh, God, that might be too much to bare.

Rivers will be in pout mode by the 2nd quarter. You have nothing to worry about.

[jbergey22]

That game was pretty awful honestly. Congrats to the Chargers.

[Lathum]

same old Bengals.

[JPhillips]

I've never seen a field look as bad as Green Bay's.

[Thomkal]

Joe and Troy look pretty cold :)

[DaddyTorgo]

How do these guys have exposed skin? Isn't that dangerous??

[kingfc22]

Ugh. Joe Buck.

[kingfc22]

3 runs. Yes. Please continue that approach.

[frnk55]

Ugh. Joe Buck.
Well it's not Dan Dierdorf. :)

[kingfc22]

Well it's not Dan Dierdorf. :)

Or Matt Millen for that matter. :p

[kingfc22]

Crabtree needs to just go down. Too many times he gets stood up and the ball comes out.

[DaddyTorgo]

How are you so unaware of the play-clock so that you have to burn a timeout?

Weak sauce Kapernick. Unimpressed.

[DaddyTorgo]

LOL - and as he's sacked for 5 they probably would have been better off taking the delay of game penalty - least they would have still had the down.

Especially if they're going for it here now...LMAO.

[kingfc22]

YES!!! Crabtree wasn't there in game 1. Kaep's favorite target by far and it's showing.

[Izulde]

Crabtree making Packers look silly.

[DaddyTorgo]

Burning another timeout??

LMAO

[kingfc22]

Burning another timeout??

LMAO

Nothing new. Niners burn timeouts like they are going out of style.

[kingfc22]

And another thing not new to the Niners. Settling for FG's and not running the ball inside the 10.

[NobodyHere]

That game was pretty awful honestly. Congrats to the Chargers.

Hopefully both the Colts and Chargers will next week so Indy has another home game.

This may require some human sacrifices to some pretty powerful Gods.

[DaddyTorgo]

What if Rodgers can't actually throw the ball today and he's just in there as a decoy?

LOL

[RedKingGold]

The 49ers should really just run on every down.

[kingfc22]

The 49ers should really just run on every down.

Especially first and goal inside the 5. :banghead::banghead::banghead:

[BillJasper]

I'm impressed. Niners looking like the cold weather team right now.

[kingfc22]

Cannot settle for another FG here.

[TroyF]

That was PI, not even a doubt about it.

[kingfc22]

Okay. That is a penalty.

I'll let the one from the first drive slide, but that one was pretty obvious.

[RedKingGold]

Kaepernick should throw his next pass at a ref's balls, Longest Yard style.

[kingfc22]

Niners defense dominating.

[RedKingGold]

The best thing is that the Packers defense is going to get worn down, hopefully.

[Glengoyne]

That was pretty close to grounding on second down there. Hitting a lineman in the tailbone may count as line of scrimmage. That or the RB may have been in the area.

[kingfc22]

The best thing is that the Packers defense is going to get worn down, hopefully.

Hopefully Roman keeps pounding the ball with Gore.

[TroyF]

Niners defense dominating.

Understatement of the century. Aaron has dropped back to pass 4 times. 2 sacks, 1 fumble, 0-2 when he did throw it. Three straight 3 and outs, 6 total yards in 9 plays.

The sad thing for the Niners is they aren't up at least 10 now. They would be if the ref in the corner of the end zone had made the correct call on the last 3rd down pass. I highly doubt we'll be seeing 28 point comebacks in these conditions. The Packers had better get their heads in the game quick.

[Izulde]

Nice pick there.

[Arles]

That's the Kaepernick we are going to need to have a chance. Come on offense, let's get a first down. ;)

[Logan]

Ugly throw.

[RedKingGold]

Ugh.

[Jas_lov]

Love the hit by Tramon on Kaepernick. That will set the tone for the offense on this drive. They need more toughness.

[kingfc22]

That's the Kaepernick we are going to need to have a chance. Come on offense, let's get a first down. ;)

I fully expect a TD drive here. Feeling eerily similar to the Seattle/SF game in week 15. Niners dominated early, but couldn't put the ball in the endzone.

[Abe Sargent]

TD baby!

[kingfc22]

And that is why you cannot settle for FG's!!! :rant:

[kingfc22]

That looked familiar. Now put it in the endzone!

[RedKingGold]

Nice response, now just have to hope the 9ers don't allow a TD. Even a field goal wouldn't be that bad.

[Logan]

Seeing that Lacy-Whitner collision in slo-mo going to commercial, isn't that the lowering the helmet by the RB outside of the tackle box penalty that everyone was so up in arms about during the offseason?

(Don't actually want to see that called a penalty, just curious)

[Jon]

Seeing that Lacy-Whitner collision in slo-mo going to commercial, isn't that the lowering the helmet by the RB outside of the tackle box penalty that everyone was so up in arms about during the offseason?

(Don't actually want to see that called a penalty, just curious)

It is, but I've never seen it called.

[kingfc22]

Nice response, now just have to hope the 9ers don't allow a TD. Even a field goal wouldn't be that bad.

Need to hold them to this midrange FG attempt. Might be a bit tricky with a rock for a football.

[TroyF]

Seeing that Lacy-Whitner collision in slo-mo going to commercial, isn't that the lowering the helmet by the RB outside of the tackle box penalty that everyone was so up in arms about during the offseason?

(Don't actually want to see that called a penalty, just curious)

It is and I want to see it called. It hasn't been called all year. If you are going to protect the tackler, the ball carrier should be held responsible as well. Intentional head shots and the lowering of helmets into other players needs to be taken out of this game.

Really weak call on GB there.

[TroyF]

I don't understand that at all, not even a little bit. They could have taken a time out and thrown it into the end zone. Instead they throw a five yard dump off, really stupid.

[Arles]

Given this OL, there's a decent chance of a sack and no points. I would have saved the TO as well. GB needed at least 3 there.

[Logan]

It is and I want to see it called. It hasn't been called all year. If you are going to protect the tackler, the ball carrier should be held responsible as well. Intentional head shots and the lowering of helmets into other players needs to be taken out of this game.

Really weak call on GB there.

If I'm one of those plaintiff lawyers out there, I have this teed up for when the NFL points out all the measures they've taken to make the game safer.

[Jas_lov]

You've never seen McCarthy's clock management. He always wastes time and never uses his time outs optimally. They just scramble around and get off a shitty play. Rodgers didn't help by taking the 2nd TO when the clock was stopped.

[kingfc22]

A TO? Unbelievable.

[BillJasper]

I wonder if the cold will start to wear down the 49ers?

[kingfc22]

Ugly first possession. Nice work by the Packers defense.

[RedKingGold]

I just don't understand why the 49ers aren't running the ball.

[kingfc22]

A TO? Unbelievable.

Apparently Kaepernick didn't have the wrist band on with the plays on it.

That is beyond inexcusable.

[Jon]

Aldon Smith is questionable for the rest of the game with cramps...great.

[TroyF]

I just don't understand why the 49ers aren't running the ball.

Their run/pass split is about 50/50. Kaep is running it well. Gore isn't. He has one 10 yard carry, he's under 3 on his other 12 carries. That isn't enough to sustain offense.

[kingfc22]

Typical Roman play calling. Trying to get too cute.

[TroyF]

Apparently Kaepernick didn't have the wrist band on with the plays on it.

That is beyond inexcusable.

It is, but he's the only reason you are winning right now, so I think you have to cut him a little slack. :)

[RedKingGold]

Their run/pass split is about 50/50. Kaep is running it well. Gore isn't. He has one 10 yard carry, he's under 3 on his other 12 carries. That isn't enough to sustain offense.

Small sample size, I prefer going by the strengths/weaknesses both teams exhibited over the entire regular season.

[kingfc22]

It is, but he's the only reason you are winning right now, so I think you have to cut him a little slack. :)

Now that we have burnt our second timeout. It doesn't matter. :p

[kingfc22]

Kaep needs to learn the "throw it super short over the middle to avoid the sack" move. As long as the receiver is in the vicinity no penalty.

[Crapshoot]

Ugh, they didn't attempt the field goal? Don't get that.

[kingfc22]

That was scary.

[BillJasper]

Nice play by Rodgers.

[kingfc22]

Amazing play by Rodgers. But CLEAR holding on McDonald to pull him off preventing the sack.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Ridiculously blatant hold on what was otherwise a great play by the Packers.

[Jas_lov]

That's why he's the best player in the league. Now punch it in.

[Desnudo]

Very enjoyable drive. Don't see that type of running game much anymore.

[Jon]

That's why he's the best player in the league. Now punch it in.

Cuz the refs let his line get away with blatant holds?

[bhlloy]

Ridiculous hold. But why let that get in the way of the story and OMG offense!

[kingfc22]

Ridiculous hold. But why let that get in the way of the story and OMG offense!

Yea. Aikman poo-pooed that one pretty good.

[kingfc22]

VERNON!!! Now can the defense get a stop? Rodgers has been hot.

[kingfc22]

Last team with the ball wins?

[mauchow]

Can't waste timeouts.

[bhlloy]

Now those plays ARE why Rodgers is one of the best on the league

[kingfc22]

What a game.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Aaron Rodgers is scary good. Holding them to three there is huge.

[Crapshoot]

Amazing game, but that 7 point gift on the Cobb catch earlier was absurd, and may yet be the deciding factor here.

[kingfc22]

Need to use all the clock.

[kingfc22]

Don't like that play. Need to use as much clock as possible.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Niners getting away with a little hold of their own there.

[kingfc22]

Milk it down to the 2 minute warning.

Need one more first down which should at least prevent Rodgers from getting a chance.

[Desnudo]

Why no time outs before the two minute warning?

[EagleFan]

3 out of 4 games this weekend going to the wire. Hope that doesn't mean next weekend will be all slop games.

[kingfc22]

Do not settle for a FG. Keep trying to get forward.

[kingfc22]

Come on Dawson.

[MrBug708]

I have a couple Niner fans on my fb and all they do all gameday is complain about officiating. Is there some conspiracy against the 49ers that I don't know about in the NFL?

[kingfc22]

Hell of a game!!! If Packers could have held out that last first down, I think Rodgers does his magic. He was amazing in the second half.

[TroyF]

I complain about refs all the time and didn't see anything horrible with these refs. The Niners should have had a first and goal on a clear PI in the end zone, but other than that I thought it was all fair.

[EagleFan]

Come on Dawson.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/5ekeK-6ucLE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[RedKingGold]

Carolina bound!

[Arles]

I have a couple Niner fans on my fb and all they do all gameday is complain about officiating. Is there some conspiracy against the 49ers that I don't know about in the NFL?
They just take their lead from the head coach. I heard Mike D'Antoni says he complains to the refs a lot ;)

Still, good game by the pack. No defensive players healthy and the team turned what should have been a lost season to a division championship. 49ers at Carolina should be a good game. Not sure this undermanned GB team could have done that.

[RedKingGold]

I complain about refs all the time and didn't see anything horrible with these refs. The Niners should have had a first and goal on a clear PI in the end zone, but other than that I thought it was all fair.

They called it consistently on both sides and throughout the game, can't ask for more than that.

[Abe Sargent]

Well, I was 3 outta 4 on my predictions and that's not too shabby I suppose.

[cartman]

Wow! They just showed a replay of the game winning kick, and the ball went THROUGH the arms of the Packer trying to block it.

[Bigsmooth]

If the Niners can get through Carolina and the Hawks advance, you have to think the Hawks have the physical edge. Brutal path for the Niners.

[rowech]

After reading comments from Bengals fans -- I get the desire to get rid of Dalton but honestly, how do you replace him? There's not a single free agent I would take over him so that leaves the draft. Do you spend a pick knowing you're going to need another 2-3 seasons to get a guy up to speed? Just seems you have to ride with him as you're in what I'll call Quarterback Purgatory.

Andrew Whitworth's comments seem very telling as either saying Gruden went off the gameplan or Dalton audibled out of way too many situations.

[kingfc22]

Wow! They just showed a replay of the game winning kick, and the ball went THROUGH the arms of the Packer trying to block it.

Haven't seen the replay. Was it the the player coming from the left who was flagged for being offsides?

[Radii]

If the Niners can get through Carolina and the Hawks advance, you have to think the Hawks have the physical edge. Brutal path for the Niners.


I'm hoping for a different rematch between two teams from the same division. It requires rooting for the Saints. Its going to feel pretty dirty doing that, but I think I can manage for one week.

[TroyF]

Winners and Losers of ;the weekend:

Winners

Andrew Luck - The legend has started.

TY Hilton - Ditto for him, had a great year but this was a massive coming out party

Mike McCoy - The win ensures a wildly successful first year as coach of the Chargers

Kaepernick - Had an up down year vs. a tough schedule, but he really came through when it counted. Never let Aaron get the ball back.

Alex Smith - Sensational in a losing effort

Mark Ingram - Stepped up when the Saints needed him

Losers

Andy Dalton - Ouch, just a game you cannot have.

Chiefs defense - They were very ordinary for most of the season. They have a 28 point lead with less than a half to play. You cannot do what they did. Injuries, no injuries, I just don't care.

Cold Field Advantage - Packers, Bengals, Eagles all playing against west coast or dome teams in poor weather. All three lost.

Lashon McCoy - Terrific season, but a very ordinary game last night.

Trent Richardson - "Hey Trent, we know you struggled this year, but we are down 17-7 here and really need to do something now. Go give us a spark!1!!!" Fumbles ball without being touched. "Yo, Trent, why don't you go over there and sit down for the next few hour, thanks"

AJ Green - You know that drop you had on the 5 when you still had a chance? You kind of have to catch that ball. But drops happen to all of us, it's ok. 3 catches for 34 yards isn't.

Jerry Jones - So you dump Ryan for Kiffin. Ryan just got a playoff win. Beat the team you couldn't beat the last game of the season. Good call Jerry, good call.

[dubb93]

They called it consistently on both sides and throughout the game, can't ask for more than that.

There was also one of the more obvious missed holding calls on the other end of the field on 4th down for the Packers. How did Rodgers escape that rush? Well, the offensive lineman raped the guy who had a good shot at Rodgers.

[Radii]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T-iHSzmc53A/Usnz3SYANMI/AAAAAAAAA7s/K30XZELWqeQ/s400/LEAPFAIL.gif

[JPhillips]

After reading comments from Bengals fans -- I get the desire to get rid of Dalton but honestly, how do you replace him? There's not a single free agent I would take over him so that leaves the draft. Do you spend a pick knowing you're going to need another 2-3 seasons to get a guy up to speed? Just seems you have to ride with him as you're in what I'll call Quarterback Purgatory.

Andrew Whitworth's comments seem very telling as either saying Gruden went off the gameplan or Dalton audibled out of way too many situations.

I'm afraid you're right. I don't think Dalton is the answer, but I don't know how you get anyone better. That siad, I's be open on draft day depending on who's available when the Bengals pick. They need a corner, but they don't have to have anything else this year. If Boyd or Carr is available, I'd at least think about it.

[Vince, Pt. II]

I have a couple Niner fans on my fb and all they do all gameday is complain about officiating. Is there some conspiracy against the 49ers that I don't know about in the NFL?

I actually get bummed about this, but most of the people I interact with through the interwebz who are 49ers fans are also super touchy about bad reffing. Makes me disappointed.

(Says the guy who complained about the refs on half of his posts in this thread)

[Jon]

I actually get bummed about this, but most of the people I interact with through the interwebz who are 49ers fans are also super touchy about bad reffing. Makes me disappointed.

(Says the guy who complained about the refs on half of his posts in this thread)

I think a lot of 49ers fans (myself included) are super touchy about officiating in light of the no call when Crabtree was held at the end of the Superbowl. It doesn't mean the 49ers would have won, but it was a bad no-call.

[Vince, Pt. II]

True, but it's hard to complain when it was almost the exact same play as Bowman made at the end of the Atlanta game in the NFC Championship.

[Vince, Pt. II]

After reading comments from Bengals fans -- I get the desire to get rid of Dalton but honestly, how do you replace him? There's not a single free agent I would take over him so that leaves the draft. Do you spend a pick knowing you're going to need another 2-3 seasons to get a guy up to speed? Just seems you have to ride with him as you're in what I'll call Quarterback Purgatory.

Andrew Whitworth's comments seem very telling as either saying Gruden went off the gameplan or Dalton audibled out of way too many situations.

I think you obviously keep Dalton, but take a flier on a QB with a 2nd or 3rd round pick. How many needs do the Bengals have, honestly? They're one of the more complete teams in the league, I think.

Groom the draft pick for a year, maybe even two while Dalton's still the starter. Then hand the reins over.

[Arles]

When you haven't won a title in a while but have been in the playoffs, you tend to be super sensitive to bad calls. It's just human nature.

[JPhillips]

I think you obviously keep Dalton, but take a flier on a QB with a 2nd or 3rd round pick. How many needs do the Bengals have, honestly? They're one of the more complete teams in the league, I think.

Groom the draft pick for a year, maybe even two while Dalton's still the starter. Then hand the reins over.

Dalton only has one year left on his contract.

[Chief Rum]

So all four of my picks lost this weekend.

Impressed with myself, I am.

[Grover]

I recorded the game, but the result was ruined for me anyway.

I wouldn't mind a 2-3rd round pick on a QB if it makes sense. I'm worried Gruden won't be around too much longer and wonder if we can find an OC that's as talented as he's been to work with a young QB.

Dalton needs to learn to make better decisions, but I don't think he can. We'll see what he can do in a contract year.

[TroyF]

So all four of my picks lost this weekend.

Impressed with myself, I am.

I didn't actually make picks, but if I did, I would have went 2-2. The splits would have been funny. I'd have been 1-1 with the two home teams I picked, 1-1 with the AFC/NFC, 1-1 on Saturday and Sunday.

Go figure.

[BillJasper]

So all four of my picks lost this weekend.

Impressed with myself, I am.

I only got one, so I know your pain. :D

[Butter]

Dalton only has one year left on his contract.

Franchise tag him after that last year. That gives him 5 years, if he hasn't made any progress, you move on. He obviously has promise, but he also just as obviously has a lot of work to do.

That loss is on Dalton/Gruden. The defense tried their ass off, limiting SD's points off the first few turnovers, but there was only so much they could do.

The clear book on Dalton is you blitz him, he can't handle it. So what did the Bengals do? They had no hot routes called when SD was blitzing from every which way. Not sure if that is Dalton's fault for failing to audible into a quick pass, or Gruden for having a shit game plan. But overall, you have to put it more on Dalton than anyone else, because even with Bernard's fumble, the Bengals were up 10-7 going into the half. The horrible throw off the back foot for an INT followed by the horrible throw to a blanketed Eifert for another INT are all on him.

I really think the team has to move on from Marvin at some point, but I am not sure if Brown will ever follow through on that as long as Brown is making his money.

[Matthean]

And that's another Gruden I don't get the push he seems to be getting to be a head coach.

[Desnudo]

You could argue he's gotten the most out of Dalton anyone could reasonably expect. It's not like Dalton was expected to be a superstar. He seems like a QB you could win with if thongs break right like Flacco or Manning. But Marvin Lewis is certainly no Harbough or Coughlin.

[Grover]

Dalton has most likely already reached his ceiling. A solid middle-of-the-pack type that can win you games, but can also lose them in horrendous ways.

As far as Lewis goes, I've been saying for a long time that I don't think he is the coach that can get a playoff win for the Bengals. His clock management choices have always bugged the hell out of me.

[Matthean]

I figured Dalton and AJ Green saved Lewis from getting fired. He's not a better coach. They just have more talent to counter what he doesn't bring to the table.

[cougarfreak]

I figured Dalton and AJ Green saved Lewis from getting fired. He's not a better coach. They just have more talent to counter what he doesn't bring to the table.

Agreed. Lewis seems to be a good judge of talent, not so good game manager/coach in the playoffs. I wish they'd kick him upstairs, let him be GM, and find a new OC. I think Grudent tries to get too damn cute instead of sticking with what works/got you there.

[rowech]

Agreed. Lewis seems to be a good judge of talent, not so good game manager/coach in the playoffs. I wish they'd kick him upstairs, let him be GM, and find a new OC. I think Grudent tries to get too damn cute instead of sticking with what works/got you there.

Because ultimately, he's auditioning for a job.

[Lathum]

You could argue he's gotten the most out of Dalton anyone could reasonably expect. It's not like Dalton was expected to be a superstar. He seems like a QB you could win with if thongs break right like Flacco or Manning. But Marvin Lewis is certainly no Harbough or Coughlin.

This is how I feel about him as well. Living in Cinci and talking to several Bengals fans he certainly is a guy who you hope gets you there then gets hot for 3-4 games or at the very least manages the game well.

I was thinking on the way to work this morning he may have cost himself 30-40 million dollars yesterday. If he plays well yesterday and they travel to New England and lose, I think people go into next year with the attitude that they have something they can build on and he likely signs an extension prior to his walk year. Now it seems likely they play out next year and see how it goes.

[RedKingGold]

Andy Dalton is meant to have Alex Smith's career.

[Julio Riddols]

This is how I feel about him as well. Living in Cinci and talking to several Bengals fans he certainly is a guy who you hope gets you there then gets hot for 3-4 games or at the very least manages the game well.

I was thinking on the way to work this morning he may have cost himself 30-40 million dollars yesterday. If he plays well yesterday and they travel to New England and lose, I think people go into next year with the attitude that they have something they can build on and he likely signs an extension prior to his walk year. Now it seems likely they play out next year and see how it goes.

I'm thinking the same. He'll be looking at competing for starting job money instead of franchise QB money until he stops laying eggs in the playoffs. Yesterday was his best playoff performance to date, but it was against an 8-8 team, at home. Now the offensive line played like total shit in the middle on pass protection, I don't know whose fault that is, but no QB looks good with guys in his face as soon as he ends his drop back. I feel like Kyle Cook isn't a very good center, and hope Cinci looks for a major upgrade there first and foremost. Still a young team, no need to panic, but if it happens 4 years in a row, it's a problem that can no longer be ignored.

[Butter]

People keep saying the Bengals need to draft on defense in the first round, but I think they need to go O-line or D-line. They will still have solid LBs and CBs, but their weakness along both the O and D lines were exposed with injuries this year. They don't HAVE to have anything in particular, which is a good place to be in round 1... but they could really use more depth along the O-line. I agree that the performance yesterday was not great by the O-line, but even so as a QB if you see a blitz coming you need to check to something quick, and more often than not that wasn't done, or it was done incorrectly.

[Suburban Rhythm]

DJ Gallo tweet from earlier is pretty much spot on

We're now glimpsing the full destruction Flacco's title wrought. Teams feel their semi-decent QBs (Cutler, Dalton) might break through, too

[sterlingice]

I'd rather that than the early 2000s Trent Dilfer "we don't even need a QB- just running and defense" model

SI

[Logan]

I'm thinking the same. He'll be looking at competing for starting job money instead of franchise QB money until he stops laying eggs in the playoffs.

Starting job money and franchise QB money is pretty close to the same at this point, no? And that's the scary thing when it comes to deciding on these guys. I'm struggling to think of recent extensions that wouldn't qualify as the latter, outside of maybe an old guy like Carson Palmer.

[albionmoonlight]

Seattle is more talented than New Orleans, and I expect them to win.

However, as a Saints fan, I am feeling better about this game with them having been blown out in the regular season than I would be if they have played a close game. Something about getting your butt unequivocally kicked makes the rematch feel a bit like playing with house money. And, to the extent professional athletes being paid millions of dollars still need things like "nobody believes in us" to motivate themselves for a playoff game, this game certainly has that going for the Saints.

[Buccaneer]

Winners and Losers of ;the weekend:

Winners

Andrew Luck - The legend has started.

TY Hilton - Ditto for him, had a great year but this was a massive coming out party

Mike McCoy - The win ensures a wildly successful first year as coach of the Chargers

Kaepernick - Had an up down year vs. a tough schedule, but he really came through when it counted. Never let Aaron get the ball back.

Alex Smith - Sensational in a losing effort

Mark Ingram - Stepped up when the Saints needed him

Losers

Andy Dalton - Ouch, just a game you cannot have.

Chiefs defense - They were very ordinary for most of the season. They have a 28 point lead with less than a half to play. You cannot do what they did. Injuries, no injuries, I just don't care.

Cold Field Advantage - Packers, Bengals, Eagles all playing against west coast or dome teams in poor weather. All three lost.

Lashon McCoy - Terrific season, but a very ordinary game last night.

Trent Richardson - "Hey Trent, we know you struggled this year, but we are down 17-7 here and really need to do something now. Go give us a spark!1!!!" Fumbles ball without being touched. "Yo, Trent, why don't you go over there and sit down for the next few hour, thanks"

AJ Green - You know that drop you had on the 5 when you still had a chance? You kind of have to catch that ball. But drops happen to all of us, it's ok. 3 catches for 34 yards isn't.

Jerry Jones - So you dump Ryan for Kiffin. Ryan just got a playoff win. Beat the team you couldn't beat the last game of the season. Good call Jerry, good call.

I would say the biggest winner was actually Michael Crabtree. He was out for 11 games then he returns to make very clutch receptions in the game,

[BishopMVP]

They need to realize he is not Brees, Manning, or Brady and give him an offense that is more to his skills.What are his skills? Dumping the ball off to Bernard, throwing jump balls to AJ Green and hitting other guys who are wide open when the defenses focus too much on the first two? I don't watch as many Bengals games as you guys, but to use the FOF analogy, he doesn't seem to be a guy who excels in short passes or deep passes, but instead has middling ratings across the board. Only thing you can really say is that he's turnover-prone when teams blitz him, but that's true for most QB's, and the only real answers there are building in more quick slants or screen passes.I recorded the game, but the result was ruined for me anyway.

I wouldn't mind a 2-3rd round pick on a QB if it makes sense. I'm worried Gruden won't be around too much longer and wonder if we can find an OC that's as talented as he's been to work with a young QB.

Dalton needs to learn to make better decisions, but I don't think he can. We'll see what he can do in a contract year.You could argue he's gotten the most out of Dalton anyone could reasonably expect. It's not like Dalton was expected to be a superstar. He seems like a QB you could win with if thongs break right like Flacco or Manning.Andy Dalton really does remind me of Joe Flacco (overall, not in QB style), and even the numbers are eerily similar.

Dalton QB rating going into contract year - 85.7
Flacco QB rating going into contract year - 86.3
Flacco QB rating in contract year - 87.7 (then great 4-game playoff stretch)
(Flacco QB rating next year - 73.7)

I think we know what Dalton is at this point, and he probably won't deviate much from his career norms in Year 4. But just like Flacco (or Stafford, or Cutler) he's an average to above-average QB who'll get overpaid like an elite one because you just can't afford to risk letting one of those go.

(Funny thing on Flacco - looking at his "most similar" scores on PFR, 3 of the 4 every year are Jim Kelly, Fran Tarkenton and Joe Namath - a.k.a. possibly the 3 most overrated QB's ever.)

[BishopMVP]

DJ Gallo tweet from earlier is pretty much spot on -
We're now glimpsing the full destruction Flacco's title wrought. Teams feel their semi-decent QBs (Cutler, Dalton) might break through, tooAverage to above average QB getting hot for a playoff stretch and winning a title? Eli Manning did it well before Flacco. (Hi Lathum!)

[BishopMVP]

Need to hold them to this midrange FG attempt. Might be a bit tricky with a rock for a football.We were debating this yesterday - does the NFL let them swap balls on FG attempts? (In which case they'd have a decently warm one to put in.) Otherwise I'd agree with you.

[Lathum]

Average to above average QB getting hot for a playoff stretch and winning a title? Eli Manning did it well before Flacco. (Hi Lathum!)

twice!!

I think there was a time Eli flirted with whatever elite means, but at this point he is extremely average. I would still take him over guys like Flacco and Dalton, and likely Alex Smith, but until he makes better decisions he is in that group

[BillJasper]

Not sure I'm ready to give up on Dalton just yet. There was the Bernard fumble which was a real momentum killer then the Green pass that would've been an easy TD which was dropped while they were still in the game.

I think Dalton needs to learn not to press when the game isn't going well.

[JPhillips]

What are his skills? Dumping the ball off to Bernard, throwing jump balls to AJ Green and hitting other guys who are wide open when the defenses focus too much on the first two? I don't watch as many Bengals games as you guys, but to use the FOF analogy, he doesn't seem to be a guy who excels in short passes or deep passes, but instead has middling ratings across the board. Only thing you can really say is that he's turnover-prone when teams blitz him, but that's true for most QB's, and the only real answers there are building in more quick slants or screen passes.Andy Dalton really does remind me of Joe Flacco (overall, not in QB style), and even the numbers are eerily similar.

Dalton QB rating going into contract year - 85.7
Flacco QB rating going into contract year - 86.3
Flacco QB rating in contract year - 87.7 (then great 4-game playoff stretch)
(Flacco QB rating next year - 73.7)

I think we know what Dalton is at this point, and he probably won't deviate much from his career norms in Year 4. But just like Flacco (or Stafford, or Cutler) he's an average to above-average QB who'll get overpaid like an elite one because you just can't afford to risk letting one of those go.

(Funny thing on Flacco - looking at his "most similar" scores on PFR, 3 of the 4 every year are Jim Kelly, Fran Tarkenton and Joe Namath - a.k.a. possibly the 3 most overrated QB's ever.)

It's the contract that makes me want to take a QB at the 24 pick. The team can afford to this year as they are loaded and have very few free agents. Long term I don't think the team can be good if Dalton is making 15 million.