2014 NFL Regular Season, Week 7

[Abe Sargent]

Enter the Browns.

Are we going to see two ties this year?

[JPhillips]

I thought the NFL was moving past this stupid walk it off mentality towards concussions. From Marvin Lewis:

"I coached defenses and linebackers for a long time and concussions didn't linger," Lewis told reporters on Wednesday. "Now we have found that because of the media and things they seem to linger longer. There's a lot of attention paid to it. I don't know why they linger longer. I don't remember them lingering like they do now."

[gstelmack]

There was a lot of talk on local sports radio about that, very very stupid thing for Marvin Lewis to say.

The key, Marvin, is we now have research that shows they linger well past the stage where you used to think they lingered...

[Grover]

Tom-Tom Brady...

[EagleFan]

Am I the only one that just walked up and smacked their TV? It's just a pavlovian response to seeing that guy, some people just have this look that make you want to smack them upside the head.

[DaddyTorgo]

Fucking run defense Patriots. Jeezus.

[jeff061]

It's very frustrating, they always seem to be in position but can't quite make the play.

[Lathum]

I bet a coworker lunch today, who is a Browns fan, that the Browns would lose one of the next 3 games vs the Raiders, JAgs, and Buccs.

[DaddyTorgo]

It's very frustrating, they always seem to be in position but can't quite make the play.

Maybe the effect of the short week coupled with losing Mayo?

[Abe Sargent]

Could the Jets actually pull this out

[DaddyTorgo]

WOW

3rd and Goal from the 19 and Brady scrambles and finds Amendola who catches the ball behind him while in mid-jump and comes down in the endzone.

[Abe Sargent]

Jets answer - can they get that conversion?

[DaddyTorgo]

It's disgusting to me that the Jets are still in this game.

[Abe Sargent]

Nope!

[DaddyTorgo]

Ugh

[EagleFan]

This is ugly two minute offense, they have no right even having a chance.

[EagleFan]

So well done by the Jets on that drive? What was the announcer smoking?

[DaddyTorgo]

This is ugly two minute offense, they have no right even having a chance.

Was pretty ugly the Pats couldn't get a first down with 2:33 left in order to kill the game off too though.

[Butter]

So well done by the Jets on that drive? What was the announcer smoking?

Crack. He was smoking crack.

[Galaril]

Was pretty ugly the Pats couldn't get a first down with 2:33 left in order to kill the game off too though.

Won't complain if that is the Pats team that shows up in two and half weeks at Gillette against the Broncos:-)

[SteveMax58]

As much as its fun to pick on Rex...I don't know what more I'd expect from this Jets team than what he's done. Sure you don't want them at 1-6, but given their schedule so far, its certainly not totally unexpected.

I mean, lets be honest here. Gino Smith is NOT an Andrew Luck talent that is just not being groomed along well enough. While I wouldn't put all of the losses on him necessarily, there is a ceiling on what he can do to actually win games (not just "not lose them"). And I'm not so sure his ceiling is much higher than what we've seen.

2000 Ravens scenarios aside....I don't understand what Jets ownership could possibly be thinking Rex should be doing better (assuming they do fire him). I mean, that was the way it worked in the 80s, 90s, and into the 00s...but I thought we've learned from the coaching carousels of those days to know when the coach is to blame vs "we just aren't a good enough team". I guess thats why they are still the Jets.

[stevew]

I can't imagine any scenario where I'd watch the jets play

[DaddyTorgo]

Won't complain if that is the Pats team that shows up in two and half weeks at Gillette against the Broncos:-)

My expectations are low. They made Geno Smith look like a legit NFL QB last night.

[Julio Riddols]

I think Geno has potential to be something, but I feel like the OC in New York has no idea how to craft an offense to suit his strengths.. They do have a strong run game this year, a nice one two punch, but the defense is done. They're not even average. If this was the old Jets D with the current offense, they might actually be a threat like when they went to the playoffs with Sanchez.

[Galaril]

Did referee help New England Patriots avoid penalty on blocked field goal? | Shutdown Corner - Yahoo Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/did-referee-help-new-england-patriots-avoid-penalty-on-blocked-field-goal-135517403.html;_ylt=A0SO81VhR0FUYGUAAnfBGOd_)

[DaddyTorgo]

Did referee help New England Patriots avoid penalty on blocked field goal? | Shutdown Corner - Yahoo Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/did-referee-help-new-england-patriots-avoid-penalty-on-blocked-field-goal-135517403.html;_ylt=A0SO81VhR0FUYGUAAnfBGOd_)

What a clickbait headline.

[Arles]

That's stupid. Refs do stuff like that every game. If the goal of a penalty is to avoid situations that may cause injuries - I'd be upset if the refs didn't atleast try to remove that situation from the start. I'm no Pats fan, but I agree it is pure clickbait.

[Arles]

Dola, I also think it's a stupid penalty to begin with. If you're going to have a penalty to prevent defenders from getting into situations where they may injure someone - I would think outlawing a corner blitz would be more useful. Plenty of QBs (ie, Troy Aikman and Steve Young) have suffered brutal concussions as a result of blind side CB blitzes. Of course, this is football and the point is often to hit the opponent hard. So, the idea of penalizing where someone lines up because they "may" do an illegal hit is a little silly.

[BishopMVP]

Won't complain if that is the Pats team that shows up in two and half weeks at Gillette against the Broncos:-)We've got a tough 6 game stretch coming up... I'm guessing we go at least 3-3, but no idea which ones we win. :confused:

[jeff061]

Pats and Jets games always seem to reference an oddity in results. I'm not panicking, yet.

[Buccaneer]

If the Pats can beat Miami and Buffalo, they'll be in good shape for the division again. How that will result for an AFC seeding, I don't know.

[BishopMVP]

Pats and Jets games always seem to reference an oddity in results. I'm not panicking, yet.I'm not panicking... I could just easily see us beating Denver or winning at Indy and SD while losing to Chicago or Detroit. Even 2-4 in that stretch puts us at 7-6 with games vs Buffalo/Miami/Jets to close it out.

[kingfc22]

Percy Harvin to the Jets? Per Jay Glazer.

Wow...

Guess it's Carroll who's losing the locker room in the NFC West.

[Super Ugly]

Wow.

[Solecismic]

I would really like to know what the Jets gave up. The Seahawks spent a lot last year to get him, and have used him effectively.

[SegRat]

That's crazy.

[SegRat]

Seattle will receive a conditional draft pick in 2015, which will range from a second- to fourth-round pick, a source told ESPN's John Clayton.

[Galaril]

That's crazy.

Yes that is crazy.Might be bad news for the rest of the AFC East. They got on one side Decker and Harvin on the other.

[Solecismic]

Cap reasons are completely out, unless the Seahawks want to turn around and trade for someone expensive.

Is Harvin putting in the work? Well, he's getting 7.4 TAs (touch attempts) per game and that has generated enough yardage and chance for the big play that opponents have to game-plan against his specific contributions from the slot.

He is slightly injured, but not enough that the Jets have a problem acquiring $6 million worth of salary for this season.

He must be a tremendous PITA in the locker room. Either that, or the conditional is likely to be the 2 and the Seahawks were hoping for more of a deep threat.

[Lathum]

I would really like to know what the Jets gave up. The Seahawks spent a lot last year to get him, and have used him effectively.

Harvin has 22 receptions for 133 yards and no touchdowns. He also has 92 rushing yards on 11 carries.

you really consider that effective?

[MikeVic]

I think you can definitely argue that he was a dynamic threat in the offense and even if stats aren't nuts, teams had to consider him in game planning. Now he's gone and they don't have anything to replace that... And this is a team that had the talent to win the super bowl. I think it's pretty weird, and can only really see it if he's the biggest headache in the locker room.

[stevew]

That 2nd rounder is likely to be in the 30s. I like Seattle's receivers. If he's truly a pain in the ass, moving him is a no brainer.

[BillJasper]

That 2nd rounder is likely to be in the 30s. I like Seattle's receivers. If he's truly a pain in the ass, moving him is a no brainer.

I don't think this damages Seattle's chances of repeating.

[BillJasper]

Harvin feels like a 'fuck you' to the next GM/Head Coach combo of the Jets.

[stevew]

Hopefully Winston to the Jets happens just so they can keep their plans to be the east coast version of the Raiders alive.

[Thomkal]

As a Cardinal fan, I am very glad Seattle traded Harvin before my beloved Cardinals had to play them this season.

Seems to be a bit of bizarre timing by the Jets coming off a loss that sent them to 1-6. Jets likely have to get to 9-7 to have a chance to make the playoffs, and with a shaky QB starting, not sure how much this will help them reach that goal. Though maybe they are looking at this as a move for the future rather than this season.

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000412483/article/why-did-the-seahawks-trade-percy-harvin

[evil homer]

harvin has no guaranteed money after this year, and the jets had $20 million in cap space left this year, so absorbing the approx 6-7 million left this year is no problem. they can cut him at the end of the year with no cap hit, and if he's so bad, the conditional will probably be a 4th and that is worth the shot on a talent like harvin. if he's good, they could always renegotiate the deal to make it more team friendly if they want to keep him around.

[JPhillips]

If the Jets don't keep him long term it's a wasted draft pick. They aren't going anywhere this year, so this deal is silly unless it's for the future.

[Abe Sargent]

If the Jets don't keep him long term it's a wasted draft pick. They aren't going anywhere this year, so this deal is silly unless it's for the future.

Eric Decker needs someone across from him to do stuff. This is the sort of move they should have done all along. Its low risk at this point, though, even if oit doesn;t pan out long term.

[BishopMVP]

Cap reasons are completely out, unless the Seahawks want to turn around and trade for someone expensive.

Is Harvin putting in the work? Well, he's getting 7.4 TAs (touch attempts) per game and that has generated enough yardage and chance for the big play that opponents have to game-plan against his specific contributions from the slot.

He is slightly injured, but not enough that the Jets have a problem acquiring $6 million worth of salary for this season.

He must be a tremendous PITA in the locker room. Either that, or the conditional is likely to be the 2 and the Seahawks were hoping for more of a deep threat.This was definitely done for cap reasons, albeit going forward, not this season. Sherman, Thomas and Chancellor got their big deals, and Wilson and the whole LB core all need new contracts by 2016 (plus guys like Lynch and Okung who aren't really underpaid.) Somebody had to go, and waiting until the offseason to choose Harvin would have added $5m to their 2016 cap. (There is also the extra few million they can now add on to their 2015 cap via rollover, but I'll admit I don't fully understand that.)

[stevew]

Can Harvin even run a route tree? Admittedly I've only seen the highlights and gadget type plays but is he even a WR? The Jets certainly need playmakers but I'm not sure this helps Decker out at all.

[mrtourette]

Eric Decker needs someone across from him to do stuff. This is the sort of move they should have done all along. Its low risk at this point, though, even if oit doesn;t pan out long term.

Can he do that though? He seems to be more effective as a slot receiver or running reverses. A dynamic/luxury addition to a functioning offense, not someone who can carry the load or that you can build around on a failing one.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Is it really low-risk for a team with as many holes as the Jets have to give up draft picks? I feel like everyone loses in this trade:

-The Jets are giving up assets for an expensive, temporary player who will do nothing more than make their future draft picks (which they have less of now anyway) worse.
-The Seahawks are admitting that they made a terrible move by trading for Harvin, selling him low, and getting back...nothing that helps a team whose window of opportunity is now.

[JPhillips]

The Jets are giving up assets for an expensive, temporary player who will do nothing more than make their future draft picks (which they have less of now anyway) worse.

Yep. If they made this trade a month ago it would have been great, but now it's giving up assets for a season that's already lost. It's pretty clear it's about Idzik and Ryan keeping their jobs.

[Desnudo]

Percy harvin could be the difference between 3-13 and 4-12

[SteveMax58]

Percy harvin could be the difference between 3-13 and 4-12
Yeah but why bother getting Harvin just to try & go 3-13. :P

[SnowMan]

As a Seahawks fan, it was obvious something was wrong with the offense. The last 2 games have been an ugly win and an ugly loss, and the San Diego game makes 3 ugly games for the offense. The team is basically saying Harvin was the problem, and mostly because of off the field issues, such as punching Tate during the SB week, almost getting into it with Wilson this year, etc. I think the cap savings were secondary (I read that his dead money next year is somewhere around 7 mill). We'll see how it goes going forward.

[TroyF]

As a Seahawks fan, it was obvious something was wrong with the offense. The last 2 games have been an ugly win and an ugly loss, and the San Diego game makes 3 ugly games for the offense. The team is basically saying Harvin was the problem, and mostly because of off the field issues, such as punching Tate during the SB week, almost getting into it with Wilson this year, etc. I think the cap savings were secondary (I read that his dead money next year is somewhere around 7 mill). We'll see how it goes going forward.

Some of my rapid fire thoughts on this.

1) I thought Harvin was the main difference in The Super Bowl last year. The Denver defense was badly injured going into the game and his first few plays really set the tone. Then he essentially ended any prayer of a second half rally by returning that kick for the TD at the start of half #2.

2) Harvin was massive as a decoy and threat. I believe the Seahawks have a couple of other "toys" they want to use more, but time will tell if they are the difference maker Harvin is.

3) Look, they scored 26 points a game last year without him. This isn't going to hurt them in the regular season. The question will be what happens in the playoffs when a team curb stomps Lynch. (He ran all over SF in the NFC title game and NO in the divisional round, he didn't do jack in the Super Bowl, as I stated, those big plays and the threat of Harvin in the Super Bowl was huge)

4) I've stated that I think something is off with Seattle this year. With that said, I think people may be overreacting here. Their schedule has been nothing short of brutal. Packers, @SD, Denver, @Washington, Dallas. Combined record: 19-10. Take off Washington from that and it goes to 18-5 for the other 4 opponents. From the outside, this isn't a team in crisis mode.

5) Maybe things were really has bad behind closed doors as is being made out. The question for me is if Percey universally hated or if this was a 50/50 thing. Locker room divides can be overblown at times, at other times they can destroy a football team.

6) Either way, any opponent of the 'Hawks has to be happy today. They gave up a very talented player with nothing coming back in return this year. Anything that can weaken a potential team you'll play on the road to the Super Bowl is a good thing for your team.

[BishopMVP]

6) Either way, any opponent of the 'Hawks has to be happy today. They gave up a very talented player with nothing coming back in return this year. Anything that can weaken a potential team you'll play on the road to the Super Bowl is a good thing for your team.Agreed - this season. But I'd much rather they'd have that money tied up in Harvin going forward than able to lock up the whole core and add the 3rd pass rusher they're desperately missing. (Which they've known about since the spring, hence why they were so mad when the Pats picked Easley in front of them.)

And yeah, no real idea what the Jets are doing.

[stevew]

Oh wow, now seeing it's a 6th that can become a 4th. Seahawks must have been 100% certain they were releasing him this off season cause his dead money basically is canceled out by the money they save this year.

[BishopMVP]

Oh wow, now seeing it's a 6th that can become a 4th. Seahawks must have been 100% certain they were releasing him this off season cause his dead money basically is canceled out by the money they save this year.And now the story is saying that he refused to go back in the game vs Dallas last week.

[bhlloy]

Plus had physical altercations with two of his fellow receivers (once in the buildup to the SB and the second causing both to miss practice time) and rumored to also fought and nearly come to physical blows with his QB? Yeah, I don't see this as a bad decision, at all. He'll fit nicely on the traveling sideshow that is the Jets under Ryan.

[stevew]

Was that Tate banging Wilson's wife story true? I'm not sure mediatakeout or black sports online are the best source of info.

[Abe Sargent]

Where are ya folks reading all this stuff at? LINKS PLEASE!

[stevew]

Xxp://blacksportsonline.com/home/2014/10/harvin-allegedly-punched-golden-tate-for-sleeping-with-russell-wilsons-ex-wife/

[stevew]

There's a pic of Tate's wife next to Wilson's ex wife. They look very similar.

[SteveMax58]

There's a pic of Tate's wife next to Wilson's ex wife. They look very similar.
Sounds like an honest mistake to me then. :p

[TroyF]

ESPN is reporting the Seahawks called the Broncos about a deal for Harvin. They wanted to talk about Julius Thomas.

I know this is ESPN. I know that a team can offer anything to anyone to kick the tires and start trade talks. That said, what exactly did the Seahawks expect here?

The only thing I can think of is the 'Hawks want to notify his agent of their interest for next off season and used this leak as a way to do it. Problem is, Denver will get one of the Thomas boys signed and franchise the other if they can't get both signed.

What a strange story.

[sabotai]

Next five games for the Giants: at DAL, IND, at SEA, SF, DAL.
Last five games for the Giants: at JAX, at TEN, WAS, at STL, PHI

A pretty brutal five game stretch followed by a relatively easy 5 game stretch. With DAL and PHI at 5-1, I highly doubt the Giants will be able to sneak into the playoffs on a 9-7 record. They could both just go .500 the rest of the year and end up at 10-6.

The way I see it, if the GIants lose 3 of the next 5 games, they will need to run the table to have a shot at the playoffs. Possible with those 5 games at the end, with the last game vs. PHI being the only one that should (...should...) be a tough game if the Giants really are a playoff caliber team. If they manage to go 3-2 over the next 5, they get a bit of breathing room, but that last game vs. PHI will still be a must-win. (In just about any realistic scenario, that last game with PHI will be a must-win).

With the way the Giants' have played so far, I don't see 3-2 being very likely, and 2-3 might still be pushing it. None of their 3 wins have been against teams as good as the next five they are facing. And with Victor Cruz done of the year, it's hard to see how the Giants will suddenly start playing better and more consistent week-to-week.

Then again, this is the NFL and far stranger things have happened.

[Jas_lov]

Rodgers picking apart Carolina's D. Playing 10 yards off Jordy Nelson probably isn't a good idea.

[Coffee Warlord]

Soldier Field's turf is a god damn embarrassment.

[Thomkal]

wow what an incredible fake out by the punt return team for the Rams against the Seahawks. The team drifted right as if the punt was going right and he was going to fair catch it. Meanwhile the ball had actually gone left to a wide open returner...and he ran it all the way back for a TD. Go Rams!

[Thomkal]

Rams on a mission-had just one sack coming into this game-have three already in this game. Beginning to be very glad I did not pick Seattle this week for the Survival league

[weegeebored]

Soldier Field's turf is a god damn embarrassment.So is Trestman's alleged offensive prowess.

[bhlloy]

Cam Newton is having about as bad a half throwing the ball as I've seen in a while

[JPhillips]

The Bengals were obviously counting on a three week season this year.

[TroyF]

Early thoughts:

1) The Rams always give the Seahawks a game, but this is bordering on lunacy. Their special teams is comical right now.

2) Tannehill was called out by his coach after the KC game. His last 10 quarters have been very, very good. (a couple of bad throws against the Packers, but overall terrific)

3) Carolina decided they didn't need to show up today from some reason. Packers are good, but the Panthers are beyond flat.

4) CJ Spiller is hurt. Talk about a season that looks so good to start and goes to hell so fast. Hopefully new ownership can get things fixed.

5) Bengals just don't look like the same team.

[stevew]

Bortles is looking pretty awful.

[Thomkal]

Buffalo without RB's Fred Jackson (groin) and now Spiller (took him off on a cart-looks like broken collarbone or dislocated shoulder?)

[Coffee Warlord]

So is Trestman's alleged offensive prowess.

I'm not sure what Trestman is supposed to do to combat Cutler being Cutler.

[bhlloy]

Rivera just kicked a FG to make it 28-3 rather than go for it. Smart.

[Dutch]

Buffalo without RB's Fred Jackson (groin) and now Spiller (took him off on a cart-looks like broken collarbone or dislocated shoulder?)

Those two cats just can't stay healthy.

[JPhillips]

Bengals outgained 268 to 27 in the first half. It's amazing that it's only 10-0.

[TroyF]

Rivera just kicked a FG to make it 28-3 rather than go for it. Smart.

There was, what, 3 seconds left and thjey were near the 15? I'm all for aggressive play. That just would have been stupid. He needed to kick the FG there and take the points.

[stevew]

Bortles, wtf.

[kingfc22]

Soooo Kirk Cousins is not the answer. No Matt Flynn'ing for him.

[Abe Sargent]

Rams Seahawks are a solid game - who'd havce hought?

[kingfc22]

Suck it Sherman!

[Abe Sargent]

Jeff Fisher with teh balls up call of the day

[stevew]

Browns wtf. Who fields a punt on the 3.

[TroyF]

Suck it Sherman!

He clearly committed defensive holding or PI on the third down play. That isn't me being all over the refs, just watch the play. He holds him coming out of his cut and goes through him before the ball gets there.

It was perfect karma for them to call that play. Only question now is how many fights Seattle tries to start and what idiotic thing will come out of Sherman's mouth after the loss.

[kingfc22]

And nobody in the league gets away with that type of contact on pass plays outside of Sherman. Such a joke.

[TroyF]

Good lord

[TroyF]

And nobody in the league gets away with that type of contact on pass plays outside of Sherman. Such a joke.

Beyond a joke at this point. It was a point of emphasis on the league for EXACTLY that reason. There is no way he should have got away with that play. Disgusting.

[NobodyHere]

And the Cleveland Browns remember they're the Cleveland Browns.

Gotta win the easy ones if you hope to win the division.

[Julio Riddols]

Who dey, right guys?

[Grover]

That Bengals/Colts game was difficult to watch.

[Abe Sargent]

TD LIONS!!!

[Thomkal]

And the Cleveland Browns remember they're the Cleveland Browns.

Gotta win the easy ones if you hope to win the division.

Yeah I think they got caught up in their own hype and media attention this week after they beat Pitt. :( Jax didn't get into the red zone till the 3rd quarter and Bortles threw a buncn of INT's and you still only score 6 points.

A bunch of crazy finishes today, hope that trend does not continue in Oakland today with my beloved Cards

At keast my Survival pick would have been wrong no matter which one I went with. Glad to see the Rams finally hold on and win a big game.

[rowech]

That Bengals/Colts game was difficult to watch.

No preparation from Bengals. Colts looked like they knew what was being run before it was run. They should all have to walk home.

[NobodyHere]

TD LIONS!!!

Lions 5-2!

[mckerney]

Teams that trade away Percy Harvin are now 7-16-1 after dealing him.

[mckerney]

That might be slightly skewed by how awful the Vikings have been with and without Harvin the last 5 years.

[NobodyHere]

That Bengals/Colts game was difficult to watch.

I love seeing that the Colts got the win.

Although the Bengals laying an egg screws up my Pick 'em :banghead:

[cuervo72]

Was out all day but managed to hear the end of the Redskins game on the radio. From the call by Larry Michael you'd think they'd just won the Super Bowl.

[Jas_lov]

The Packers were left for dead after week 3 and have now won four in a row. They've already played the toughest part of their schedule at SEA, at DET, at CHI. One tough road game left at NO, the rest of the tough ones are in Lambeau. The offense is firing on all cylinders and the defense is back to its opportunistic ways. I'd put GB at the top of the NFC with Dallas right now.

[NobodyHere]

Who knew that Colt McCoy is still in the league?

So who has the bigger trade value:
RG3, Cousins, or McCoy?

[weegeebored]

I'm not sure what Trestman is supposed to do to combat Cutler being Cutler.I dunno...have a better game plan? Have better time management skills? Figure out that the only thing working today was touches by Forte? Coaching is not rocket science. Hey wait...I thought Trestman was the quarterback whisperer?

[BillJasper]

Good to know that the NFL officiating still completely sucks ass. 44 for the Giants was fumbling the ball before the whistle blew, he lost control of it right when he got hit.

I thought I'd tune in for a bit today and it is good to know nothing has changed.

[Lathum]

The Packers were left for dead after week 3 and have now won four in a row. They've already played the toughest part of their schedule at SEA, at DET, at CHI. One tough road game left at NO, the rest of the tough ones are in Lambeau. The offense is firing on all cylinders and the defense is back to its opportunistic ways. I'd put GB at the top of the NFC with Dallas right now.

Who exactly left them as dead?

[Lathum]

I bet a coworker lunch today, who is a Browns fan, that the Browns would lose one of the next 3 games vs the Raiders, JAgs, and Buccs.

Jersey Mikes for lunch tomorrow sounds pretty good to me...

[NobodyHere]

Good to know that the NFL officiating still completely sucks ass. 44 for the Giants was fumbling the ball before the whistle blew, he lost control of it right when he got hit.

I thought I'd tune in for a bit today and it is good to know nothing has changed.

I can't argue with the call. The ball carrier was being driven backwards when the whistle blew.

[TroyF]

Really solid, gutty win for KC today. They played hard. Reid after a bye week is nothing to screw around with. Denver just about to start the toughest stretch of the season. SF, SD, @NE. SF with a ton of injuries. Word is the Broncos will be starting a new RT tonight.

[Coffee Warlord]

Rumor is, Bears had a complete meltdown in the locker room. Buncha guys went at each other.

Which, I suppose it meshes with the meltdown on the field.

[TroyF]

There has been a ton of debate the past week about Murray getting too many carries. One side says: He's paid to tote the rock, give it to him 600 times. The other side says "You'll destroy him and he will be worthless late in the year or next year"

For me? I side on the latter. He's on pace for 400 or more carries. They are going to wear him down. I know, easy for me to say when they keep winning, but I think they are making a mistake.

[SteveMax58]

Wow the Giants are about as stupid as you can get without forgetting to breathe. Reese, Mcadoo, and Coughlin (in order of my annoyance).

1) Eli needs tall receivers. Remember that Plaxico guy? Look for guys that are tall enough to catch his (not uncommon) slightly off the mark or high throws.

2) Ok, if you have said "short" receivers....STOP THROWING JUMP BALLS to 5'9" WRs when they are defended by 6'1" CBs!!

3) So I knew this new offense was supposed to be more methodical & short/quick passes but doesn't it have ANY deep posts? WTF did you draft Beckham for if you weren't going to stretch the defense with him (and make them respect that part so your running game works better)?

4) Instead of drafting "good boy" OL & DL guys...draft big, strong, and nasty. Yeah I'd love to have a beer with those guys but personality will get you exactly nowhere when it comes to moving another 300 lb man out of the way.

5) EVERYBODY KNOWS you take your timeouts on the front side of the 2 min warning. That way you save the obligatory 3-4 seconds each running play takes from chipping away at the precious 120 seconds you have on the back side of the 2 min warning. Just....why?

Ok...sorry guys. Had to get that out.

[cuervo72]

I guess it depends on what your view of RB is - I think increasingly, they're viewed as expendable. All the better if they break down just as their contract expires.

[BillJasper]

There has been a ton of debate the past week about Murray getting too many carries. One side says: He's paid to tote the rock, give it to him 600 times. The other side says "You'll destroy him and he will be worthless late in the year or next year"

For me? I side on the latter. He's on pace for 400 or more carries. They are going to wear him down. I know, easy for me to say when they keep winning, but I think they are making a mistake.

I say keep giving him the ball while he's effective. RB's have a short shelf life anyways.

[SteveMax58]

For me? I side on the latter. He's on pace for 400 or more carries. They are going to wear him down. I know, easy for me to say when they keep winning, but I think they are making a mistake.
I think you feed him the ball as much as you need to when it matters, but you have somebody else do the mopup duty when you are just milking the clock & killing the other team's timeouts.

Dallas kept running him today in obvious milk the clock situations. He already had his 100 yds already too so not sure why they couldn't have somebody else run into the line & fall down at the end. Though the risk would be...if that backup RB fumbles the ball...then you'll be second guessed on why your best RB wasn't out there. But such is life as a coach...I'd have some faith that my 2nd RB can protect the ball (or I'd be looking for a new 2nd RB).

[Abe Sargent]

I think today is a good day to remember just how good REid and Fisher are as coaches.

[Abe Sargent]

There has been a ton of debate the past week about Murray getting too many carries. One side says: He's paid to tote the rock, give it to him 600 times. The other side says "You'll destroy him and he will be worthless late in the year or next year"

For me? I side on the latter. He's on pace for 400 or more carries. They are going to wear him down. I know, easy for me to say when they keep winning, but I think they are making a mistake.

To me this is a non-controversy . Gottta find a way to throw rocks at the 6-1 Boys?

[Thomkal]

Rumor is, Bears had a complete meltdown in the locker room. Buncha guys went at each other.

Which, I suppose it meshes with the meltdown on the field.

Rumor appears to be correct:

Brandon Marshall of Chicago Bears calls loss 'unacceptable' - ESPN Chicago (http://espn.go.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/11729610/brandon-marshall-chicago-bears-calls-loss-unacceptable)

[TroyF]

To me this is a non-controversy . Gottta find a way to throw rocks at the 6-1 Boys?

Who the hell is throwing rocks? Hell, it's one of the best stories of the year. But they are incredibly reliant on one player who is not a QB right now. Anytime you have that situation as a team, it's scary. It is an asset you want to protect as much as you can.

6-1 starts are wonderful. They are a hell of a lot better when they end in 13-3 seasons with your key guys healthy for the playoffs. 400+ carries is dangerous. Not many guys have that many carries and can hold up. Murray has not exactly been the beacon of health either. I think what they are doing is incredibly risky. I can raise the concern now or wait until he starts to wear down and have his yards per carry dwindle and say "I thought this would happen"

[ColtCrazy]

It's been awhile since I've seen a Colts D perform so well as I did today. But, wow, did a completely inept Bengal team help them out. They were 3-0? It's obvious that AJ Green is there MVP. They have no one to stretch the field.

[NobodyHere]

Alright, 49ers need to win this game so the Colts will be somewhat tied for best record in AFC.

[TroyF]

Poor call on the PI. No way in hell that was offensive PI.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Really solid, gutty win for KC today. They played hard. Reid after a bye week is nothing to screw around with. Denver just about to start the toughest stretch of the season. SF, SD, @NE. SF with a ton of injuries. Word is the Broncos will be starting a new RT tonight.

Thankfully, KC is finished with it's toughest stretch. Most believed that if they could make it to 3-3 through the first six, they'd have a chance at the playoffs. They did exactly that and could easily have won the games at Denver and especially the one at SF. As long as Reid sticks with the running game, KC is going to be very good.

[TroyF]

Thankfully, KC is finished with it's toughest stretch. Most believed that if they could make it to 3-3 through the first six, they'd have a chance at the playoffs. They did exactly that and could easily have won the games at Denver and especially the one at SF. As long as Reid sticks with the running game, KC is going to be very good.

I don't think you had a chance in hell against Denver, even the late heroics. (you would have only tied had you scored. I wasn't at all worried about the finish of that game)

You have a shot at the playoffs. It's going to be tough, but possible.

[Abe Sargent]

Who the hell is throwing rocks?


People online. ESPN commentators.

[DaddyTorgo]

People online. ESPN commentators.

Two constituencies you REALLY shouldn't lose sleep over.

[TroyF]

People online. ESPN commentators.

Funny, I haven't viewed it at all as throwing rocks. I view it as people looking at a potential error in team management. The Cowboys are getting an awful lot of love. An awful lot of deserved love.

[cuervo72]

Go 1-3 against SEA/DEN/ARZ/SD, then win the rest might do it. The South is a dumpster fire, the East is...maybe not a dumpster fire, but I have little confidence in BUF or MIA, and who knows how above middling CIN/CLE/PIT really are. I guess they'd most likely have to contend with CIN, maybe HOU if they feast on TEN/JAX.

[kingfc22]

Catch the damn ball.

[MrBug708]

I'm not watching the game, but my facebook feed is filled with various niner fans complaining about the refs. It's an on-going theme, but are they penalized more than the average team?

[cartman]

And there is #509 for Peyton

[TroyF]

I'm not watching the game, but my facebook feed is filled with various niner fans complaining about the refs. It's an on-going theme, but are they penalized more than the average team?

Tonight the Niners have 3 penalties on them. 1 was BS. Offensive PI on Lloyd. 1 was a head butt they never showed. 1 was defensive PI in the end zone, an obvious call.

Denver has 5 penalties. I don't think any of them are wrong either.

There was also a replay that looked clearly like an incomplete pass when first viewed. Upon replay, it was not clear at all if 2 feet were down or not and they stuck with the ruling on the field. Denver got the completion.

[Abe Sargent]

I'm happy that Favre's record fell to P Manning. That guy is great and has every amount of intangible awesome you'd ever want in a guy.

[TroyF]

Dola: The issue with the Niners tonight isn't the refs. it is threefold:

1) Drops
2) Not enough pressure on Manning
3) Not controlling the Denver pass rush

[MrBug708]

Thanks. One thing I never understood was fans complaining that one team having more penalties was simply a by-product of bias from the refs. It seems that one team committing more fouls than the other team is well within the realm of possibility.

[TroyF]

Thanks. One thing I never understood was fans complaining that one team having more penalties was simply a by-product of bias from the refs. It seems that one team committing more fouls than the other team is well within the realm of possibility.

For me it all depends on how it is happening. This year in Seattle, Denver destroyed the 'Hawks offensive line. It was like a turnstile. Yet, somehow Seattle avoided offensive holding for pretty much the entire game. You'll see in basketball a team dominating the glass, points in the paint and controlling the pace and see fouls either be even or that team trailing. That's garbage.

I'm on record: The Niners were ROYALLY screwed against Arizona. It was brutal. Tonight? Not so much. At least not yet.

[Desnudo]

I'm not watching the game, but my facebook feed is filled with various niner fans complaining about the refs. It's an on-going theme, but are they penalized more than the average team?

Yes...but they are also the beneficiaries more often than the average team.

http://www.nflpenalties.com

[DaddyTorgo]

Yes...but they are also the beneficiaries more often than the average team.

http://www.nflpenalties.com

Man - the Pats are UGLY on that front. Jeezus.

[Abe Sargent]

And then there were 4

[Dutch]

#97 Jackson just took a wicked helmet-2-helmet blow that left him woozy...I wonder if he should be pulled from the game and checked for a concussion.

[TroyF]

#97 Jackson just took a wicked helmet-2-helmet blow that left him woozy...I wonder if he should be pulled from the game and checked for a concussion.

He should be pulled from the game. He should be pulled if the score was 13-13 with 10 seconds left in the fourth quarter. As it isn't even close to that score, you can't even rationalize it. Keep him out.

Even if Denver doesn't get a title with Manning, I'll always look back fondly on watching this team with him at the helm. What an amazing, special offense to watch week in/week out for three years.

[kingfc22]

Am I watching Arsenal or the Niners? Enough with the injuries already.

[Galaril]

Wow so Denver's pass rush is really impressive tonight 6 sacks 3 for Demarcus Ware and 2 for Von Miller.

[TroyF]

Wow so Denver's pass rush is really impressive tonight 6 sacks 3 for Demarcus Ware and 2 for Von Miller.

They have started to turn it up after the bye week. The run defense has been sensational and when they get you to third and long, katie bar the door. Kaep has impressed me tonight. He's been under severe duress and hasn't looked bad.

This defense is 100% different when Miller is healthy and in beast mode. He wasn't in that mode all of last year. Hope the drug problems are over and he's back for good.

[Galaril]

They have started to turn it up after the bye week. The run defense has been sensational and when they get you to third and long, katie bar the door. Kaep has impressed me tonight. He's been under severe duress and hasn't looked bad.

This defense is 100% different when Miller is healthy and in beast mode. He wasn't in that mode all of last year. Hope the drug problems are over and he's back for good.

I just hope we can find a way to lock him up as I think he among a ton of our stars : Julius Thomas, DT, Orlando Franklin, Von Miller, Chris Harris and I think Rahim Moore. Plus Welker is finished his contract too so not sure what happens after this year. Hope they can lock Miller, Harris and the Thomas up long term but tend to doubt it might only get 2 of those five resigned. I guess we should enjoy it while it lasts.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Thanks. One thing I never understood was fans complaining that one team having more penalties was simply a by-product of bias from the refs. It seems that one team committing more fouls than the other team is well within the realm of possibility.

This seems to be the way of things for 49er fans lately. I think it's a byproduct of playing many games against the Seahawks and having to watch their secondary play "defense."

I've been on the refs myself a bit, but the average fan is taking it to whole other levels - conspiracy theories, it's the ref's fault they lost the game, etc. pretty sad.

[NobodyHere]

I've been on the refs myself a bit, but the average fan is taking it to whole other levels - conspiracy theories, it's the ref's fault they lost the game, etc. pretty sad.

A whole new level? Was there ever an innocent time where fans never complained about the refs? Who never thought that refs were bought off or whatever?

[TroyF]

I just hope we can find a way to lock him up as I think he among a ton of our stars : Julius Thomas, DT, Orlando Franklin, Von Miller, Chris Harris and I think Rahim Moore. Plus Welker is finished his contract too so not sure what happens after this year. Hope they can lock Miller, Harris and the Thomas up long term but tend to doubt it might only get 2 of those five resigned. I guess we should enjoy it while it lasts.

From what I've been able to gather reading through capology stuff, it's likely they'll be able to keep 4 of the 5. The Broncos hold an option year on Miller, they should be able to ink him to a deal as they have some leverage there.

With all of that said, this team is built for Manning. If he calls it a career, who knows what happens.

Welker is gone. They have the second round pick they traded up for who will be ready next year. Hell, Welker is already more of a bit part of this offense than what he was last year.

[Matthean]

NFC West might be a big enough bloodbath that only one gets in. It will be interesting to see who that is. So far if the playoffs started today, Seattle and San Fran would be out.

[NobodyHere]

http://cdn.fansided.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/36/files/2014/10/trick-gif.gif

I don't think anyone will ever punt to the Rams again, that was probably my favorite punt return of all time.

I wonder what was going through the punter's mind as this play was developing.

[Matthean]

I honestly don't understand how that many players on the kicking lose track of the ball.

[BishopMVP]

From what I've been able to gather reading through capology stuff, it's likely they'll be able to keep 4 of the 5. The Broncos hold an option year on Miller, they should be able to ink him to a deal as they have some leverage there.

With all of that said, this team is built for Manning. If he calls it a career, who knows what happens.

Welker is gone. They have the second round pick they traded up for who will be ready next year. Hell, Welker is already more of a bit part of this offense than what he was last year.Latimer? I think he's got potential, but he's not a Welker replacement. He's Thomas insurance at this point. (Its OK though, slot guys are pretty fungible and cheap.)

You guys really think Moore is worth a big deal? I'm well aware how the media will tear down a DB for things that aren't his fault (saw it with McCourty for 2 years), but I've never gotten the impression Moore is actually enough above replacement level to be worth the $5m/year Jacksonville or Oakland will pay him.

[DaddyTorgo]

I honestly don't understand how that many players on the kicking lose track of the ball.

This.

[BishopMVP]

Who the hell is throwing rocks? Hell, it's one of the best stories of the year. But they are incredibly reliant on one player who is not a QB right now. Anytime you have that situation as a team, it's scary. It is an asset you want to protect as much as you can.

6-1 starts are wonderful. They are a hell of a lot better when they end in 13-3 seasons with your key guys healthy for the playoffs. 400+ carries is dangerous. Not many guys have that many carries and can hold up. Murray has not exactly been the beacon of health either. I think what they are doing is incredibly risky. I can raise the concern now or wait until he starts to wear down and have his yards per carry dwindle and say "I thought this would happen"Do you think he'll break or he'll break down? I think everyone agrees giving an RB 500+ carries is a recipe for disaster eventually, but I've never seen anything that indicates the RB loses effectiveness that year.

Unless the Cowboys are dumb enough to give him a big contract they don't, and shouldn't, care about his long term well being. Ride him until he drops then plug in Joseph Randle for 90% of the effectiveness. (And that's coming from someone who has semi-seriously argued the Pats should sit Gronk vs weaker teams even when healthy)

[BishopMVP]

(Apologies for the multiple posts - on a phone and can't consolidate.)

BTW, only saw the end of Seattle/STL in passing, but did the refs give a convincing rationale for the ending? Sure looked like Seattle *probably* recovered the fumble, and definitely to the point it should've been reviewed. Dislike Pete Carroll, but he was right to be flipping out there IMO unless there was something I missed.

[BishopMVP]

I honestly don't understand how that many players on the kicking lose track of the ball.Try running by a 250 pound guy who's fighting you, while knowing its possible to get blown up from either side at any time - you're not gonna slow up and try to predict where that balls going. Heck, take the best centerfielders in MLB and ask them to track a ball that's coming over their shoulder while running full speed. You really can't (the Willie Mays and Jim Edmonds catches are celebrated for a reason), so in general why wouldn't you follow the crowd? Great play design, and sneakily great catch by Bailey.

[stevew]

People do remember the Hester/Knox fake PR TD that got calldd back for a phantom hold, right? It was exactly the same as the Bailey one and was largely covered on Sportsdigs back in the day.

[Matthean]

Try running by a 250 pound guy who's fighting you, while knowing its possible to get blown up from either side at any time - you're not gonna slow up and try to predict where that balls going. Heck, take the best centerfielders in MLB and ask them to track a ball that's coming over their shoulder while running full speed. You really can't (the Willie Mays and Jim Edmonds catches are celebrated for a reason), so in general why wouldn't you follow the crowd? Great play design, and sneakily great catch by Bailey.

Maybe because they run this play hundreds of times and without issue. If it was so easy to disguise, then maybe more teams would be trying it. Maybe because the kicker could simply tell the team where he is likely to kick the ball.

[Galaril]

Latimer? I think he's got potential, but he's not a Welker replacement. He's Thomas insurance at this point. (Its OK though, slot guys are pretty fungible and cheap.)

You guys really think Moore is worth a big deal? I'm well aware how the media will tear down a DB for things that aren't his fault (saw it with McCourty for 2 years), but I've never gotten the impression Moore is actually enough above replacement level to be worth the $5m/year Jacksonville or Oakland will pay him.

Agree on Lattimer. He has looked fantastic in the preseason. I think he is the likely replacement for DT as I don't think they can sign him. I expect them to resign Franklin, Julius Thomas , Miller, and I hope Chris Harris. Raheem Moore big deal I don't know he is worth that and we may draft someone else.

[Bobble]

Maybe because they run this play hundreds of times and without issue. If it was so easy to disguise, then maybe more teams would be trying it. Maybe because the kicker could simply tell the team where he is likely to kick the ball.

It's disguised all the time, even in college and I would guess High School - particularly for punts that come down near the end zone. The returner will waive for a fair catch and drift to one side while the ball comes down in somewhere else and bounces into the end zone.

I don't think a punter can guarantee that if he's meant to kick it to the left, that he will be able to do so. He may have to change the trajectory to miss a block attempt, shank it, whatever. If you're covering a punt, you certainly can't run down there staring up in the air at the ball. All you've got to go on is the returner.

This case was a little special in that the punt was short enough and one of the guys who covers the gunner was fast enough and a reliable enough returner to get to the ball and make something of it.

[Thomkal]

NFC West might be a big enough bloodbath that only one gets in. It will be interesting to see who that is. So far if the playoffs started today, Seattle and San Fran would be out.


I would be very happy about that. :D

[albionmoonlight]

If true, this sort of encapsulates why Manning is (one of) the best ever AND why he annoys so many people: Manning's Keep-Away Celebration Was Planned, Practiced, Therefore Corny (http://deadspin.com/mannings-keep-away-celebration-was-planned-practiced-1648367922)

[Matthean]

If true, this sort of encapsulates why Manning is (one of) the best ever AND why he annoys so many people: Manning's Keep-Away Celebration Was Planned, Practiced, Therefore Corny (http://deadspin.com/mannings-keep-away-celebration-was-planned-practiced-1648367922)

He's like the whitest guy in the room, he knows it, and keeps taking advantage of it.

[gstelmack]

Agreed with Rivera - the Keuchly ejection (missed it at the time, finally found the replay) was BS. No idea why the official was touching him in the first place, Keuchly had no reason to suspect that was an official touching him, and there was no punch or shove, just an arm spin to get the hands off him as he's trying to walk away from the pile.

[Sun Tzu]

Whew. I'd be hard pressed to remember a time when the Niners had so many starters out. 9 Starters missed last night's game by my count, including literally more than half of the defense.

CB - Tremaine Brock
CB - Chris Culliver
ILB - Navorro Bowman - All Pro
ILB - Patrick Willis - All Pro
OLB - Aldon Smith - All Pro
DT - Glenn Dorsey
OG - Mike Iupati - All Pro
OT - Anthony Davis - Pro Bowl Alternate
C - Daniel Kilgore

With that said, if we're going to lose to anyone with half of our starters hurt, I'd want it to be the Broncos, in Denver, in front of a national audience, when Manning is gunning for the all-time TD record.

Recipe for a blowout much?

[BillJasper]

Whew. I'd be hard pressed to remember a time when the Niners had so many starters out. 9 Starters missed last night's game by my count, including literally more than half of the defense.

CB - Tremaine Brock
CB - Chris Culliver
ILB - Navorro Bowman - All Pro
ILB - Patrick Willis - All Pro
OLB - Aldon Smith - All Pro
DT - Glenn Dorsey
OG - Mike Iupati - All Pro
OT - Anthony Davis - Pro Bowl Alternate
C - Daniel Kilgore

With that said, if we're going to lose to anyone with half of our starters hurt, I'd want it to be the Broncos, in Denver, in front of a national audience, when Manning is gunning for the all-time TD record.

Recipe for a blowout much?

Isn't that when a good coach should be able to rally the troops and at least make the game respectable?

[Sun Tzu]

Isn't that when a good coach should be able to rally the troops and at least make the game respectable?

...

[Abe Sargent]

Isn't that when a good coach should be able to rally the troops and at least make the game respectable?

I think his point is that if you are going to have so many injuries nail your starting roster, that the best time to have it is in the game you were probably going to lose anyway. That way you arent; risking the Raiders game or somesuch.

[Sun Tzu]

Yeah.

[BillJasper]

...

Not at all, it was an honest question. After there being reports of Harbaugh losing the locker room, I think it's fair to wonder if what happened last night is a symptom of that. If Harbaugh behind-the-scenes is anything like Harbaugh on the sidelines, I could see that act wearing thin on the players.

While many of the players out there were backups, they were still NFL backups and they simply look lost even though the backups are watching the same film as the starters. Yeah, they'll be a step slower but last night looked like an NAIA team vs. Alabama.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pretty solid article on Steelers, directed to the group of fans who think the solution is always bringing back Cowher

http://pit.scout.com/story/1470510-deja-vu-all-over-again

[Suburban Rhythm]

If true, this sort of encapsulates why Manning is (one of) the best ever AND why he annoys so many people: Manning's Keep-Away Celebration Was Planned, Practiced, Therefore Corny (http://deadspin.com/mannings-keep-away-celebration-was-planned-practiced-1648367922)

I thought planned / choreographed celebrations were penalties?

[NobodyHere]

I thought planned / choreographed celebrations were penalties?

It's not like Peyton is a muslim who wanted to pray.

[Sun Tzu]

Yeah, they'll be a step slower but last night looked like an NAIA team vs. Alabama.

It was basically the equivalent, starters-wise, of one team playing the game like it's the pre-season (mostly backups) against one team playing the game like it's their biggest game of the year (pretty much right on).

[Abe Sargent]

Pretty solid article on Steelers, directed to the group of fans who think the solution is always bringing back Cowher

http://pit.scout.com/story/1470510-deja-vu-all-over-again

Nice read, tahnks for the linkie

[Abe Sargent]

Let's go....um....Texans? I need to think about that one though.

[Abe Sargent]

Yeah Houston, get that score.

[sabotai]

If you're covering a punt, you certainly can't run down there staring up in the air at the ball. All you've got to go on is the returner.

This. The punt coverage team never looks up for the ball. They hold their blocks for 1 or 2 seconds then take off off running. Now the way you defend trickeration like this is to have a disciplined coverage team. You don't take off running to the returner, each player has a specific lane they are responsible for, and if they tried a trick return like this with most of the punt block team on one side and the ball comes down on the other, it simply won't work if everyone is doing their job. In fact, it'd be a good way to get an inexperienced return man blowed the fuck up.

What happened here is that most of SEA's punt coverage team tried to cheat (or they're badly coached) and closed down before the returner got the ball, thus you have a wide open field on the other side. If the players on the backside are in their lanes, they'd see the ball come down on the other side. Here, they were already solely focused on the returner and running towards him. I'll bet Fisher saw that this was common for Seattle's punt team and decided to break this gem out against them.

In fact, this is probably pretty common overall. There's a reason why punt returners seem to no be able to help themselves, and take off running to the left or right after getting the ball. It's to try to round the corner and get a big return because of coverage players converging on the returner prematurely, leaving one side completely open.

[Abe Sargent]

Houston has just lost this game.

[Abe Sargent]

Houston has just lost this game.

And now the pick by the Steelers defense puts paid to those words.

[cuervo72]

The hell, Texans? I step into the kitchen to unload/load the dishwasher for not more than five minutes and you completely shit the bed.

[cartman]

I think Fitzpatrick needs to shave that ridiculous beard before the Texans can be taken seriously.

[cuervo72]

Worked for Orton.

[cuervo72]

Come on, you have to go for that.

[cartman]

That onside kick was on the ground a LONG time

[Julio Riddols]

http://cdn.fansided.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/36/files/2014/10/trick-gif.gif

I don't think anyone will ever punt to the Rams again, that was probably my favorite punt return of all time.

I wonder what was going through the punter's mind as this play was developing.

I totally asked why teams don't do this back on the last page of the week one thread.. Awesome to see my theory proven plausible.

[JAG]

This. The punt coverage team never looks up for the ball. They hold their blocks for 1 or 2 seconds then take off off running. Now the way you defend trickeration like this is to have a disciplined coverage team. You don't take off running to the returner, each player has a specific lane they are responsible for, and if they tried a trick return like this with most of the punt block team on one side and the ball comes down on the other, it simply won't work if everyone is doing their job. In fact, it'd be a good way to get an inexperienced return man blowed the fuck up.

What happened here is that most of SEA's punt coverage team tried to cheat (or they're badly coached) and closed down before the returner got the ball, thus you have a wide open field on the other side. If the players on the backside are in their lanes, they'd see the ball come down on the other side. Here, they were already solely focused on the returner and running towards him. I'll bet Fisher saw that this was common for Seattle's punt team and decided to break this gem out against them.

In fact, this is probably pretty common overall. There's a reason why punt returners seem to no be able to help themselves, and take off running to the left or right after getting the ball. It's to try to round the corner and get a big return because of coverage players converging on the returner prematurely, leaving one side completely open.

It's interesting that after their special teams were so brilliant against Dallas, they were the cause of them losing to St. Louis.

[Warhammer]

If the Rams could hold a lead, they'd be dangerous.

[Matthean]

I think Fitzpatrick needs to shave that ridiculous beard before the Texans can be taken seriously.

Or they get a better QB.

[bhlloy]

I love that a news station out up a photo of Gary Peyton when discussing the all time TD record. Just imagining the communication breakdown that must have led to that happening makes me chuckle.

[SteveMax58]

I love that a news station out up a photo of Gary Peyton when discussing the all time TD record. Just imagining the communication breakdown that must have led to that happening makes me chuckle.

News director: Hey Gary, we need that video of Peyton like we talked about! Quick!
Gary (the switchboard operator): Which one??
New director: GARY! PEYTON! NOW!

[BishopMVP]

I totally asked why teams don't do this back on the last page of the week one thread.. Awesome to see my theory proven plausible.I still think people are overreacting to the play design a little much, and ignoring what an awesome play Stedman Bailey made. That's not an easy ball to track and catch.

[Julio Riddols]

Yeah, the execution and strategy was different to what I had proposed, but I think teams should put 2 returners back though.

He did make a hell of a play there, and I wonder how long they practiced it before deciding to try it in a game.

[BishopMVP]

Yeah, the execution and strategy was different to what I had proposed, but I think teams should put 2 returners back though.

He did make a hell of a play there, and I wonder how long they practiced it before deciding to try it in a game.I wonder if its something Bailey/Austin had practiced together at West Virginia and talked the coach into trying it.

I know a number of HS's use 2 returners, (and opposing punt coverage teams compensate by going after both until its "obvious" which guy its going to)I just wonder if it would leave you too vulnerable to fakes at the NFL level.