 |
03-26-2007, 11:48 PM
|
#51 | ||
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
Bah.
Sorry about the formatting but you get the idea. My first ever, regular season game is about an hour away from taking place and we face last year's NFC West champs, the San Francisco 49ers. Like us, they are missing key personnel but they still have more talent on their team than we do. However, they are not the threat that they were in '77 and this is a game we can pull off, even as dogs. Their QB is a cerebral, patient type and I won't try to force the issue too much with him. They have a rookie in the backfield and I'm going to try to take away the pass as much as possible to force their hand. They have one, really good wideout and I plan on double-teaming him for the majority of the game. On offense, I'm going with a bit more ball-control than normal. They have a strong secondary so I'll test them a bit, but not as much as usual. They have a couple weak spots on their line so I'm trying to run at RDE Joe Campbell as much as possible. The game plan has more outside runs than usual, as their ends are a bit lackluster in the run defense department. I'm not entirely confident, with this being my first real game and gameplan. It will likely take time for me to develop something solid, especially on the defensive side of the ball. I'm guessing a low-scoring affair in the 17-14 type territory. I will be playing the injured John Stallworth in four wide receiver sets but he won't start. I'll be splitting carries between veteran Eddie Ray and rookie Ricky Patton. I have high hopes this year for Patton. Wish me luck!
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
||
|
|
|
03-29-2007, 07:06 PM
|
#52 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
Patrick Erratic in Opening Day Loss to San Francisco
St. Louis Post-Dispatch September 4, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) - New St. Louis quarterback Frank Patrick had one of his worst outings as a professional, throwing three interceptions and fumbling away another as the Cardinals lost 20-10 to the defending NFC West champs, the San Francisco 49ers. "The buck stops with me", the downcast Patrick said in the locker room after the contest. "I made some poor decisions out there today that cost our team the game. But I can't dwell on it. I'll look at a bunch of film, see the mistakes I made and work to correct them for Denver next week." It didn't look like the Cardinals were going to put up much of a fight early on, as the Niners strolled right down the field with ease on their first two drives. However, the defense stiffened at the right time, holding their opponents to short field goals on both drives. After a 42 yard Steve Mayer field goal put the Cards on the board for the first time this year, recent pickup Mike McGill picked off a Bryant Salter pass to give St. Louis excellent field position. The penalty-prone Cards almost blew it with three consecutive infractions but Patrick brought the team back from a 2nd and 31 deficit and would eventually score on a 15 yard touchdown to Herman Franklin to give the redbirds the 10-6 advantage. However, Patrick would give it right back on St. Louis' next possession, as he got picked for the first time in the game by veteran Booker Edgerson with less than two minutes remaining in the first half. The Niners scored two plays later on a 36 yard bomb to take a three point lead into the dressing room. The second half was even worse for the offense. Patrick lost a fumble on the team's first possession of the second half, were forced to punt on their second then he threw his second pick on the third series. San Francisco once again had great field position and they scored their second touchdown of the game to go ahead by ten. The Cards and Niners exchanged punts and St. Louis had a late 13-play drive come up empty when Patrick threw yet another interception deep in San Francisco territory to end any hope of a comeback. "We have to protect the football much better than we did today", Wade Grabowski said after taking a loss in his first game as a head coach. "I'll be honest, a lot of the blame lies with me and the coaching staff", he opined. "We probably threw the ball deep a little too often and didn't respect the great talent that team has in the secondary." Grabowski went on to compliment Niners safety Drake Garrett, calling him "a stud" after his 13 tackle, 2 assist performance and the "ageless" Booker Edgerson, who did a great job taking away his side of the field. Week 1, 1978
Played in St. Louis, MO (59 degrees, fair, calm)
Drive Charts
Rushing Statistics
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
03-29-2007, 07:11 PM
|
#53 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
WHAT WE LIKED -
∙ Herman Franklin's excellent preseason play wasn't an aberration, as his 153 yards receiving was a league-best this week and he was given consideration for the offensive player of the week. John Stallworth is also to be commended for toughing out a nasty groin injury to nab five catches in a limited role. ∙ The running game was very good...when used. Eddie Ray shows that he still has some breakaway speed after pulling off a 30-yard dash. ∙ The linebacking play was solid all-around; rookie Darnell Barton (7tckl 3asst 0.5sack) continues to astound. Mike McGill (4tckl 1asst 0.5sack 1int) was impressive again out of position and like Franklin was on the shortlist for player of the week honours, only on the defensive side. ∙ The defense showed a lot of toughness early to hold the Niners to field goals on two long drives into the redzone. WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE - ∙ Patrick had a horrible game but the decision to pass 46 times and run only 16 against a relatively weak defensive front was ill-advised. The gameplanning must improve. ∙ The Cardinals were very undisciplined, taking 10 penalties that cost them 84 yards. That's too much ground to overcome. ∙ Paging Allen Dunbar...paging Allen Dunbar...please report to the field at once! He was absolutely terrible in his first game as a Card, with no receptions after getting targeted seven times. The former 2nd overall pick has been labeled a bust after an uneventful career to this point and he's doing nothing to disprove that early in his tenure. ∙ The run defense has to be better. San Francisco has a solid line but the three man front had difficulty beating blocks. The pass rush was pretty much non-existent as well, although Salter is very adept at evading it so that may have been part of the plan. So it's a loss in my first 'real' game. I wasn't satisfied with the pass-heavy gameplan, especially since my analysis on San Francisco's run defense ended up being spot-on. Throwing deep all the time against their secondary was also ill-advised... Next, I face JeeberD's Denver Broncos, who are coming off a loss to Oakland in week one. My Cards are installed as early 8 point favorites at home.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|
|
|
|
03-29-2007, 07:16 PM
|
#54 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
 St. Louis Post-Dispatch September 6, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) - The St. Louis Cardinals traded running back Clarence Williams to Green Bay yesterday for a seventh round pick in the 1980 HFL Draft. Williams was a 2nd round pick of the Cards in 1977 and had 49 yards on 15 carries during his rookie season with the team. The emergence of rookie Ricky Patton in training camp this year sent Williams to the sidelines and eventually to the practice squad. "We're happy to give Clarence the chance to play with a fine, up-and-coming team in Green Bay", general manager NoSkillz said after the deal was finalized. "They have some injury concerns over there right now so Clarence will get the chance to step in and contribute right away." The Cards also made a couple other moves, dropping a wide receiver and picking another one up. First, the team cut rookie Jessie Thompson, a 5th round pick in this year's draft. Thompson was another of the so-called 'Black Aces' along with Williams, as he was unable to beat out fellow rookie Wes Chandler for a spot in the lineup this year. In his place, the team signed veteran Herb Washington, who was recently released by the New York Giants. Washington, a 5th round pick of the Philadelphia Eagles in 1972, has played in 96 career games and has 154 receptions to his credit for 2460 yards. "We like his big-play ability and his incredible speed, which can really reak havoc on defenses", NoSkillz said of the two-time HFL Fastest Man winner. Washington will be slotted in as the fifth receiver in Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos as he attempts to learn the St. Louis playbook. The team now has one available roster spot and the GM indicated that he may take advantage of it in the next week or so.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|
|
|
|
03-29-2007, 07:21 PM
|
#55 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
1978 Season: Week Two Preview
St. Louis Post-Dispatch September 9, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) - 
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|
|
|
|
03-29-2007, 07:29 PM
|
#56 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
Week 2 sees us face JeeberD's 0-1 Denver Broncos.
I think we have a slight edge in talent and the 8 point spread in our favour seems to reflect that assumption. They are a balanced team on offense but the lack of an explosive back will put more pressure on their QB Rick Norton to go deep. I think I can take advantage of their defense if I'm careful with my gameplan. I didn't run the ball anywhere near as much as I wanted to in game one and I want to rectify that somewhat for this game. However, the Broncos are pretty weak in the secondary so I can't completely abandon the pass. I'm still really banged up, with ten guys now nursing injuries. Stallworth played fine with the groin injury but I'm reluctant to move him into the starting lineup until he's completely healthy. He'll stay as my number three receiver. Allen Dunbar is officially this close to getting sent to the doghouse after his terrible game one performance as my #1 receiver. I will be really disappointed if we don't pull this game out.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|
|
|
|
04-01-2007, 11:56 PM
|
#57 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
Patrick, Cards Bounce Back in Decisive Victory over Broncos
St. Louis Post-Dispatch September 11, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) - Frank Patrick bounced back from one of his worst games as a pro, going 17 of 25 for 246 yards with 4 touchdowns in a decisive 28-3 victory over the Denver Broncos at Busch Stadium yesterday afternoon. The Cards scored touchdowns on their first two possessions and looked like they were going to blow the Broncos out early but a third TD try by Patrick got picked off. He'd get picked again on the next possession but settled down after that and threw two more TDs in the second half to lead the team to their first win of the year. "It still wasn't an ideal performance", Patrick stated after the game. "I have to do a better job limiting the turnovers and I was fortunate our defense played so well to bail me out a couple times." "But it was a positive first step, that's for sure!" Wide receiver Herman Franklin once again had a huge game for St. Louis, going over 100 yards for the second consecutive week while catching eight more balls. Franklin leads the league in receptions and yards through the first two weeks. "I'm really fortunate to be able to get as many looks as I am right now", the modest Franklin said. "Patty has done a great job spreading things around and getting the ball into as many hands as possible." "I'm just grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a win." The running back by committee approach saw rookie Ricky Patton take the starring role in game two, as he compiled 76 yards on only 17 carries. Starter Eddie Ray was negated somewhat, picking up 37 yards on 14 carries. The defense was wonderful all game long. Broncos quarterback Rick Norton was forced to put the ball up 56 times in the game and he was only able to complete 28 passes for 250 yards, many of them coming with the game out of reach in the second half. Norton threw three first half interceptions and had trouble all day with his reads. Starring on D for the Cards were safety Nate Wright (5 tackles, 1 assist, 1 interception), rookie cornerback Blaine Sanford (5 tackles, 1 interception) and MLB Tim Rossovich (6 tackles, 1 assist). Wade Grabowski was thrilled with the team's effort in his first career NFL win. "Everyone showed up to play today and the gameplan was executed to perfection on both sides of the ball", he indicated. "They should all be proud of themselves - it was truly a sixty minute performance and that's the type of game we'll need all year if we're to meet our goals." Week 2, 1978 played in St. Louis, MO (52 degrees, fair, calm)
Drive Charts
Rushing Statistics
THE OFFENSE - ∙ Frank Patrick was much better in his second game, showed poise in the pocket and made good decisions all game. It didn't hurt that the offensive line blocked well for him all game, allowing only one sack and two hurries. ∙ Rookie Patton showed the great burst that had St. Louis scouts drooling at the combines. He broke a big 33 yard run in the game and also caught his first touchdown pass on a short route before sprinting 28 yards into the end zone. ∙ Herman Franklin continues to astound as he leads the entire HFL in receiving yards and catches. His play has likely elevated him over the extremely ineffective Allen Dunbar as the team's #2 target when John Stallworth regains full health. THE DEFENSE - ∙ Just a great game all-around. The secondary especially has been brilliant. Nate Wright continues to play inspired football at safety and rookie corner Blaine Sanford seems to improve with every drive. Charlie Waters has been almost flawless on the other side. ∙ The linebackers also are playing well. Rossovich, Darnell Barton and Mike McGill all stepped up after the devastating injury to Terry Beeson. ∙ The one negative is that the three-man front is getting no real consistent pressure on the quarterback. Rookie Dennis Harrison hasn't been great in his first two games at the unfamiliar nose tackle position. SPECIAL TEAMS - ∙ Kick return specialist Eddie Foster won't see many reps at wideout but has proven to be worth the money through two games, as he's averaging over 31 yards per kickoff return to place 3rd in the HFL. Kicker Steve Mayer didn't have to do anything other than kickoff and boot extra points. Punter Bobby Walden was tremendous, averaging almost 53 yards per punt while his net average was a spectacular 47.8. INJURIES - ∙ Second year linebacker Terry Beeson tore an ankle ligament and will miss the rest of the season. It's a devastating blow for the youngster, who was credited with his first HFL sack earlier in the game and has shown rapid improvement at the outside position. This will be a tough injury to recover from. He joins nine others on a ridiculously crowded injury list. The team will be forced to pickup another linebacker in the free agent pool, as star Ross Brupbacher doesn't seem to be recovering well from his broken tibia suffered in the preseason. St. Louis did a much better job gameplanning in this one and took repeated advantage on the Broncos overmatched secondary. Their defense continues to employ a solid 'bend but don't break' mentality. The Cards will host the 1-1 Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Busch Stadium next Sunday. The Bucs are coming off a 20-16 loss to the Houston Oilers and have been installed as early two point underdogs against St. Louis.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
04-02-2007, 12:23 AM
|
#58 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
 St. Louis Post-Dispatch September 13, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) - The St. Louis Cardinals placed injured linebacker Terry Beeson on the IR yesterday, ending the young sophomore's season much earlier than desired. Beeson tore his ankle in Sunday's 28-3 win over Denver after picking up his first HFL sack earlier in the game. "It's a tough blow for our defense and especially our linebacking group", indicated coach Wade Grabowski. "We have been really happy with Terry's progress this year and we're just upset for him. He worked incredibly hard during the offseason, both over in Europe and in training camp to get ready for the year and the opportunity to start. It's a tough pill to swallow to see him forced out of the lineup so early in the season." The team, desperate for linebacker help with All-HFL superstar Ross Brupbacher still sidelined with a broken tibia, signed two reinforcements. The team was able to sign 1975 All-HFL linebacker Tom Stincic to a one-year deal. Stincic, who was recently cut by the Washington Redskins, put together a 132 tackle, 46 assist season for the Detroit Lions back in '75 but an injury the next year knocked him out for the season and he's never been able to regain his prior form. The 31-year old intends to prove that he still has some game left. "I never was given a chance to play in Washington and I'm just excited to get the opportunity to play with an up-and-coming franchise", the amiable Michigan-grad said. "I'll do whatever they ask of me and I'm just anxious to get back on the field." The club also signed linebacker Sean Tubbs to a one-year deal. Tubbs was recently dropped by the Houston Oilers after playing three years with the club. His biggest season was back in 1970 when he started 16 games for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and made 48 tackles along with 18 assists. In other news, defensive end John Farley went through a full practice today with the team and declared himself fully fit for Sunday's matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. John Stallworth, Ethan Heupel, Ron Pritchard and Jack Youngblood all participated in drills but their status for the Bucs game remains up in the air. Brupbacher and safety Ike Thomas are still at least a week or two away from returning to practice.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|
|
|
|
04-02-2007, 02:26 PM
|
#59 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
1978 Season: Week Three Preview
St. Louis Post-Dispatch September 16, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) -  Passacaglia's Tampa Bay Buccaneers travel to St. Louis to face the Cardinals in a battle between two 1-1 teams. The Bucs are coming off a week two 20-16 loss to the Houston Oilers and like St. Louis, are battling a slight injury bug. All-HFL 2nd Team FB MacArthur Lane and LB Ron Crosby will both miss Sunday's game while star center Mike Webster, RB Rickey Bell and rookie TE Ozzie Newsome are also battling injury. Newsome and Webster are expected to play through the pain, however. The Bucs have a lot of strength at the line of scrimmage and usually play low-scoring games. The offensive line is very good, especially with a fully-fit Webster and are capable of opening large holes for their collection of backs. Bell is their best option right now but his injury may mean that Robert Newhouse or Geoff Nixon will get the starting nod. J.D. Hill is a very capable receiver and Newsome will also prove to be a dangerous weapon as the year progresses. On defense, the sensational line is led by sackmaster Joe Jones, who already has 3.5 through the first pair of games. Mark Lomas and Derrick Hughes are two fine tackles. The strength up the middle continues with Marty Huff, a fine middle linebacker. The team is notably weak at cornerback but have two excellent safeties in Mario Clark and Sandy Durko making up for mistakes. On the other side, St. Louis is coming off a great win against the Denver Broncos but have lost another key contributor and starter in sophomore linebacker Terry Beeson. There is a good chance that Tom Stincic, just picked up this week, will start in Beeson's place. The other injured Cards are getting closer to full health but there will be a number of players still nursing injuries. John Stallworth has participated in all drills this week and may start for the first time this year, as he's battled a groin problem since early in training camp. If not, Herman Franklin will once again be asked to play a feature roll, something he's done tremendously well through two games as he leads the league in receptions and yards. KEY MATCHUPS - Cardinals Offensive Line vs. Buccaneers Defensive Line The Cards will have to protect Patrick from the likes of Jones and Lomas, who both love rushing the quarterback at every opportunity. Cardinals Defensive Line vs. Buccaneers Rushing Attack The Bucs haven't been good on the ground this year but may think they can run against the Cards' three-man front. It will be imperative that Harrison, Gunner and Youngblood beat their blocks or open up lanes for the linebackers to negate the running attack. The secondary is good enough to take care of itself and Tampa could be in trouble if they try to take shots downfield. This will likely be a game that's close right to the end.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo Last edited by NoSkillz : 04-02-2007 at 02:28 PM. |
|
|
|
|
04-03-2007, 11:48 PM
|
#60 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
Late Penalty Dooms Cards in Shocking Last Second Loss
St. Louis Post-Dispatch September 18, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) - Tampa Bay wide receiver Raymond Kelley caught a 12 yard touchdown pass from Bob Griese with no time remaining to give the Buccaneers a stunning 22-19 victory over the hometown Cardinals yesterday afternoon. The Bucs, down by five points with 1:29 left, started their final drive from their 26 yard line. They would march to the Cardinals 34 yard line and with no time remaining, Reggie Covington was brought down after a ten yard gain. However, the Cards were given an unsportsmanlike penalty after the Jim Ferguson hit and one second was put back on the clock, as the game can't end on a defensive penalty. That's when Griese found his favourite target on the day in Kelley, who snared 11 balls on the day. They would also convert a two-point conversion to further rub salt in the wound. "It's a tough loss", a despondent Wade Grabowski said after the game. "We dominated that game from the start of the second quarter and to lose in this fashion, on a selfish penalty, well...words can't describe the feeling right now." Ferguson, the guilty party on the play, was inconsolable. "I was just trying to be aggressive on the tackle", he said. "I've always been taught to drive an opponent into the ground but I obviously got carried away on the play." "I knew it was the end of the game so I was just trying to make sure the guy didn't have a chance to lateral it off. I can't apologize enough. It was just a stupid move on my part to get that physical when the play was over." The loss overshadows a fine defensive performance that saw the Cards stop nine consecutive drives before the winning touchdown. Tampa dominated the first quarter, throwing the ball at will against the Cards secondary and striking for two touchdowns. The Cards took over from there and if not for two misses from Steve Mayer, would have been ahead by 11 instead of 5 at the end of the game. The offense, however, had difficulty putting the ball into the endzone and only scored one touchdown. That was on a fumble return, as fullback George Amundson picked up a Bob Tucker miscue and marched 67 yards to paydirt. Frank Patrick was off once again, throwing two interceptions but neither came back to hurt the team. The running game was unspectacular but effective in draining clock. In the end, everyone will be talking about the last second mental lapse in a game the Cards had no right to lose. Week 3, 1978 Played in St. Louis, MO (57 degrees, fair, calm)
Drive Charts
Rushing Statistics
THE OFFENSE - ∙ Patrick is already up to 7 interceptions in only three games, right up with the worst in the league. He has to do a better job protecting the football. ∙ The running game was reasonably effective but needs to improve as well. YPC is down and the two main backs (Ray and Patton) are having a tough time getting yards at crucial points late in the game. The conservative offense at the end of the game resulted in two '3 and outs' and that helped the Bucs get the ball back late. ∙ Franklin was once again the star on offense, with his third consecutive 100-yard contest. He continues to hold the league lead in receptions. Stallworth looks to be completely over his groin injury and that means Franklin will likely move to the other side of the field. Will this affect his production? Allen Dunbar, with only 3 receptions in 3 games, will drop from #1 receiver to #4 with the return of Stallworth to full fitness. ∙ Offensive line play has been pretty weak, for the most part. The run blocking has been mediocre and Patrick has gone down a bit too often for our liking. THE DEFENSE - ∙ The front three did a better job putting pressure on the quarterback, combining for a couple blocks and three hurries. However, the unit is still without a sack on the season. Upgrades will be necessary in the offseason. ∙ The linebackers continue to play well despite injuries to two starters. New signee Tom Stincic looked good in his debut, with 3 tackles, 1 assist, 1 sack and 1 knockdown. Rossovich continues to put up huge tackle totals. ∙ The secondary was fantastic again and was credited with 12 passes defended, led by stalwart safety Nate Wright. SPECIAL TEAMS - ∙ Punter Bobby Walden had another fine game and now leads the league both in gross average and net average. Placekicker Mayer missed two field goals (52 & 48) but made four others. The return game was solid, as usual with Eddie Foster. The aforementioned Ferguson was a special teams demon on the day, making five tackles on kick coverage. INJURIES - ∙ Veteran defensive tackle Manny Fernandez left the game with an elbow contusion during the third quarter but it won't likely be serious enough to keep him out of the lineup. Stalwart guard Levert Carr also came up limp during the game but toughed it out and is no worse for wear. This is a heartbreaking loss for St. Louis and they must show some mental toughness in order to bounce back from a horrifying end result. Their four-game homestand ends next week as they host the 0-3 New York Giants at Busch Stadium. This is a team that can't be taken lightly, not after an 11-5 finish last year.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
04-06-2007, 11:35 AM
|
#61 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
1978 Season: Week Four Preview
St. Louis Post-Dispatch September 23, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) -  The St. Louis Cardinals look to even up their homestand as they host Fantastic Flying Froggies and the reeling New York Giants this weekend at the Busch. The Giants got smoked by the media-darlings in Detroit by a score of 44-10. New York is a bit banged up right now but most of the stalwarts that are injured will likely play. John Hannah, Clovis Sweeney, Glen Cameron and Kent Kramer are all suffering from different ailments but are listed as probable. They will, however, be without starting LB Doug Fisher and starting LCB Chuck Detwiler. The Giants feature a fine dual-headed running attack led by last year's rookie of the year, Tony Reed. He's splitting carries with Leroy Keyes and it will be imperitive for the Cards defense to negate their effectiveness. There has been somewhat of a quarterback controversy in New York, with veteran Randy Johnson and sophomore Kenny Wolfe both fighting for the starting job. Tight end Kramer is the key target, although Golden Richards and Rick Upchurch are both talented. The offensive line is well above average. The defensive line has solid bookends in Dryer and Newsome and Sweeney is excellent in the middle. The linebackers are solid as well, with youngsters Shiver and Cameron playing like veterans. The team is very good at safety but like the Buccaneers last week, are decidedly below average at corner. The loss of Detwiler won't help matters. St. Louis will have to bounce back after a heartbreaking, last-second loss to Tampa in week three. The team is starting to get healthy at the right time: WR John Stallworth, DE John Farley, CB Ethan Heupel are all completely healthy for the first time all year and Stallworth will start. Stalwart safety Ike Thomas has been upgraded to questionable but will likely sit out at least one more week. All-HFL linebacker Ross Brupbacher is making progress but will be inactive with his broken tibia. KEY MATCHUPS - Cardinals Passing Game vs. Giants Secondary Frank Patrick has been very ineffective from a relative standpoint and will look to prove that he's among the elite QB's in the game against a pass defense that has been porous in '78. Cardinals Defensive Line vs. Giants Rushing Attack Once again, the Cards will face a 'fun-first' team in the Giants. So far, the defense has held up tremendously well and is ranked 9th overall against the run. This will be a big test for the 3-4, as the Giants will be eager to prove their 0-3 start is an abberation.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|
|
|
|
04-06-2007, 02:53 PM
|
#62 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
'Flawless' Cardinals Dominate Giants
St. Louis Post-Dispatch September 25, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) - The St. Louis Cardinals showed a lot of character in bouncing back from a heartbreaking loss the week previous in a 31-6 dismantling of the New York Giants. Frank Patrick threw three touchdown passes, two of them to Allen Dunbar and Eddie Ray scored the team's first rushing touchdown of the year in the decisive victory. It was a solid performance from Patrick, however, that had coach Wade Grabowski in a jovial mood. "Frank knew that he had to limit his mistakes after a few tough weeks", Grabowski said. "He's been a bit guilty of focusing just on one receiver and defenses were starting to catch on", alluding to his propensity to throw in the direction of his new favourite target, Herman Franklin. "He did a good job of spreading things around a bit more and didn't try to force the ball downfield as much as he did the first three weeks." Patrick downplayed the coach's comments. "I've been around this game for a long time and I knew I had to do a better job with my reads and my progressions", Patrick indicated. "We simplified the gameplan somewhat and that seemed to help a great deal. With so many new faces on the roster this year, it sometimes takes a few weeks to get comfortable with the playbook. I think we're on the right track now." The defense once again was stingy when it had to be, allowing only a second half touchdown when the game was already well in hand. "We were a bit surprised that the Giants didn't go downfield a bit more", linebacker Tim Rossovich said after the game. "They stuck with the run really late in the game and were quite successful with it but we were able to stiffen up at the right moments. I'm proud with the way all of the young guys are competing out there, especially without our top player in the lineup." Rossovich led the defense with 10 tackles, a team-high this year. Week 4, 1978
Played in St. Louis, MO; 65 degrees, fair, calm
Drive Charts
Rushing Statistics
THE OFFENSE - ∙ Patrick did a great job controlling the game in this one. He was precise all game and wasn't intercepted for the first time all year. Easily his best performance in St. Louis red. ∙ Ricky Patton was given a few more opportunities in the running game with mixed success. He took a big hit in the middle of the game and looked a bit off his game after that. Eddie Ray ran well and notched the team's first rushing touchdown of the season. ∙ Franklin continues to impress and now leads the league in receiving yardage, along with receptions. He's certainly taking advantage of the fact teams are doubling Stallworth on the other side. Allen Dunbar had a great game, with two touchdowns and six receptions. ∙ The offensive line was much better in this one. Patrick didn't see the turf at all during the game, with no sacks or knockdowns allowed. The run blocking, while not great, was improved. THE DEFENSE - ∙ No sacks again from the front three. Harrison continues to look out of place at the nose and the team must be hopeful it doesn't stunt his growth. ∙ Rossovich continues to pad his tackle totals and Tom Stincic just keeps making big plays. He had a sack and a forced fumble in this one. ∙ The St. Louis secondary continues to play at a high level. Nate Wright is on a Pro-Bowl pace. SPECIAL TEAMS - ∙ Punter Bobby Walden continues to perform at peak levels and is the best punter through four games in net average. He had two impressive boots that were downed inside the five yard line and that makes it very tough to get going for opposing offenses. Kicker Steve Mayer had a field goal blocked in this game after a bad snap from tight end Bob Tucker. Eddie Foster was solid, as usual, in the kick return game while the Cardinals coverage teams continue to rank near the top of the league. INJURIES - ∙ Rookie running back Ricky Patton suffered a concussion in the game and will likely see limited duty while he recovers. That means the unhappy Arnold Weber and starter Eddie Ray will see more carries than usual. ∙ Stalwart safety Nate Wright is also suffering from shoulder tendinitis but shouldn't miss any game time. A very solid result that propels the team into a second-place tie in the division with the injury-riddled San Francisco 49ers and leaves them a game behind the Los Angeles Rams for first in the NFC West. The Cardinals will head out to Dallas for their first road game of the season as they take on Hired Gun and the undefeated Cowboys.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
04-09-2007, 11:57 PM
|
#63 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
1978 Season: Week Five Preview
St. Louis Post-Dispatch September 30, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) -  The St. Louis Cardinals head to the road for the first time this season, as they prepare to take on last year's HFL Bowl finalists in Dallas, led by GM Hired Gun. The Cowboys had a bye in week four and are sitting with a perfect 3-0 record to start the year, with their smallest margin of victory a whopping ten points. The team is pretty healthy coming off the bye, with only nickleback J.J. Finch out for the contest. Dallas hasn't exactly put up huge yardage in their three victories, ranking only 23rd in the league in that department at the present time. However, they've taken advantage of almost all their opportunities on offense and have been extremely stingy on defense - an excellent combination. There is a lot of talent on the offensive side of the football and it would be foolish for the Cardinals to overlook that. Gunslinger Bobby Douglas leads the team from the pivot position and is currently the highest paid player in the league after making out like a bandit in the offseason. However, he's backed it up with rock-solid play through the first three, throwing for six touchdowns with no interceptions. Douglas has two great targets in Fred Hyatt and Don Herrman and tends to look at them first before moving on with his progressions. Tight end Jim Mandich is an excellent blocker and can come up with big catches at opportune times. Wilbert Montgomery and Delvin Williams split the carries in Dallas and are both talented individuals. Both are capable of going up the middle and getting dirty or speeding around the end to look for the big play. They will give the Cards all they can handle. The offensive line features five starters all in their ninth season in the league. Doug Wilkerson is the star of the group at left guard but the others are all capable. The defensive line is a solid but unspectacular group, with veteran Jim Dunaway playing well early in the season with 2.5 sacks already. Barney Chavous is the youngster up front and has loads of talent. This group likes to rush the passer but are relatively weak against the run. The Boys feature a decidedly average linebacking corp but there is some veteran savvy here. They are well-balanced, with Gersbach an adept pass rusher and Lynch more of a stay-at-home type. Healy is pretty solid all-around. Jim Tolbert leads a veteran group in the secondary - he's a big hitter at the safety position. The Cowboys were lucky to resign Dellas Howell in the offseason to an extension, as he's still the best option at the corner in his ninth year. The Cardinals are coming off their most convincing win of the Wade Grabowski era, a 31-6 destruction of the New York Giants. Everything seemed to go their way on both sides of the ball and they will need to continue protecting the ball and will have to win the turnover battle if they are to emerge victorious. The team continues to get healthier and rumor has it that last year's All-HFL linebacker Ross Brupbacher will make his first appearance of the year after suffering a broken leg in the preseason. Coach Grabowski said he wouldn't start but will likely see about 20 snaps in the contest. He also indicated that free safety Ike Thomas would see more action as he continues his recovery from a separated shoulder. He will split time with Louie Wright. On a negative note, rookie running back Ricky Patton will only see limited time due to a concussion suffered in last week's contest. Grabowski said that veteran back Eddie Ray will see the majority of the carries for the first time this year as Patton recovers. "We're very careful with head injuries here", Grabowski indicated. "The player (Patton) thinks he's fine but we saw some things we didn't like after he took the baseline tests." "He'll likely see some snaps but we won't let him overdo it." KEY MATCHUPS - Cowboys Running Game vs. Cardinals Front Seven Dallas will likely try to run the ball at St. Louis' 3-4 front, which has held up admirably thus far in the season. The return of Ross Brupbacher will likely help the Cards in this department but the two-headed tandem of Montgomery and Williams will get their yards. If the Cards can contain them, they will be more successful defending the pass, which really is set up by the run in Dallas. Cardinals Passing Game vs. Cowboys Secondary Dallas has been excellent against the pass this year and will have another tough test against Frank Patrick and his top two receivers: John Stallworth and the HFL's leading receiver Herman Franklin. The Cards may be forced to pass a bit more with the injury to Patton so it will be imperative that they come out with efficiency in the passing game.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|
|
|
|
04-10-2007, 09:47 PM
|
#64 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
Cardinals Come Crashing Down to Earth in Loss to Cowboys
St. Louis Post-Dispatch October 1, 1978 (Dallas, TX) - It's back to the drawing board for Wade Grabowski and his St. Louis Cardinals after they were humbled by the NFC East-leading Dallas Cowboys 30-13 on Sunday afternoon. Dallas quarterback Bobby Douglas showed why he's the highest paid player in the league, going 22 of 39 for 318 yards in the win. However, it was the Cowboys defense that really took charge in this contest, holding Frank Patrick and the Cardinals to a meager 180 net yards on the day. "They mixed their coverages really well all day", an exasperated Patrick said after the game. "We just couldn't get into a groove on offense at any point in the game. You just have to tip your hat to them after a performance like that." Patrick continued the Jeckyll and Hyde routine, only completing 17 of 41 passes for a season-low 166 yards. He also threw two late-game interceptions. Grabowski was furious with his team after the game. "That was a flatout embarrassment", he spewed in the postgame press conference. "I'm not taking anything away from the Cowboys, who earned the win, without doubt. However, it would have been nice if our players actually showed up for the game." Grabowski continued. "The gameplan was sound but our execution was atrocious on offense. The linemen didn't block, the receivers didn't catch and the quarterback didn't make the right decisions." "It was an all-around disgraceful performance offensively, especially since some in this room thought that they were better than the opposition. Needless to say, there are a number of guys eating humble pie right now." Grabowski did have time to praise the run defense, which was stifling all day. "It's truly a shame that a loss of this magnitude will overshadow what they did out there", he said about the unit that held the Cowboys to a paltry 30 yards on 26 carries. "But it's definitely the one positive that we can bring out of this game." Grabowski finished by saying the team would not be getting Monday off, which is usually customary for the club. "They already took the day off today. Why should I give them another one?", he asked to laughter in the press room. Week 5, 1978
Played in Dallas, TX (71 degrees, fair, 1 mph wind)
Drive Charts
Rushing Statistics
THE OFFENSE - ∙ Patrick was off again, taking too many chances downfield. He was not helped by his receivers, however, who dropped five balls overall. ∙ Eddie Ray got the majority of the carries due to the concussion suffered by Ricky Patton last week and wasn't able to prove that he's capable of handling the load. In fact, Patton had to come in for 8 rushes, something coach Grabowski didn't want to do. ∙ Franklin had his first poor game of the year, dropping three passes and not eclipsing the 100 yard mark for the first time in '78. Stallworth was effective underneath but the Cowboys did a good job taking away the deep ball. ∙ The offensive line was horrible, allowing 5 sacks and 6 hurries. No wonder Patrick was so ineffective. They also missed a lot of blocks in the running game. Rick Sharp has been a huge disappointment after a fine '77 campaign. THE DEFENSE - ∙ The front three now has gone five games without a sack but they were absolutely fantastic against the run. Rookie Dennis Harrison plugged up the middle all day and Dallas couldn't get through, as he was in on four tackles in his best performance of the year. Defensive end Harry Gunner was in on six tackles. ∙ Rossovich was all over the field, as usual. Ross Brupbacher returned and was in for about 15 plays, knocking down Douglas on his first play from scrimmage. ∙ The secondary wasn't as effective as usual, as they gave up a few too many big plays. Rookie Blaine Sanford did pick off his second pass of the year. SPECIAL TEAMS - ∙ Special teams continue to be a plus for the Cards. Bobby Walden just keeps on ticking at punter, with another great day. Steve Mayer made both of his field goal attempts and Eddie Foster broke a couple nice kick returns. INJURIES - ∙ Hard-luck receiver John Stallworth broke his hand in the second quarter but taped it up and didn't miss any time. He didn't drop any balls so it looks as if he won't miss any time. ∙ Defensive end Harry Gunner suffered a bit of a stinger in the third quarter but pronounced himself fit after the game. It will likely be a long week for the Cardinals players after a dud of a performance against one of the NFC powerhouse teams. They must recover in time to face the winless Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday afternoon.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
04-12-2007, 12:16 PM
|
#65 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
1978 Season: Week Six Preview
St. Louis Post-Dispatch October 7, 1978 (Philadelphia, PA) -  The St. Louis Cardinals look to avenge last week's humiliating defeat at the hands of the Dallas Cowboys as they travel to Philadelphia to take on the winless Eagles. Philadelphia is coming off a 26-0 loss at the hands of the Seattle Seahawks and are floundering on offense behind rookie quarterback Deron Galloway. The Eagles currently have only one notable injury and that is to middle linebacker Ken Tedeschi, who will likely miss the rest of the season with a serious ankle sprain. Philadelphia relies on the running attack quite heavily with Joe Profit running behind a stellar line, one of the HFL's best in fact. However, rookie Galloway hasn't been able to take advantage of defenses that are playing eight or nine men in the box to negate Profit and that has meant little in the way of scoring from the Eagles. The defense is underrated and is led by last year's sack leader Gary Burley. He's been a bit quiet so far this year but he can break out at any time. Nose tackle Dale Hale has picked up the slack but the front seven has had some difficulty controlling opposing running attacks. Tedeschi will be missed in the middle of the defense but Ron Acks is off to a wonderful start. Veteran safeties Ceasar Belser and Fletcher Smith still play at a high level and will have to protect a weak set of corners. The team is ranked first overall in pass defense but a lot of that is due to the opposing teams running while ahead late in games. The Cardinals were thoroughly embarrassed last week by Dallas in a measuring stick game and will look to come out hard in this one. It will be imperative that the team win the turnover battle and not allow the Eagles good field position. If they force the Eagles to march down the length of the field to score points, it will be a long day for the men in green. Wade Grabowski indicated that All-HFL linebacker Ross Brupbacher may be ready to start this week after seeing 20 snaps in last week's contest. He also indicated that safety Ike Thomas is ready for full duty as well, further bolstering the defense. KEY MATCHUPS - Cardinals Front Seven vs. Eagles Rushing Attack It's no secret that Philadelphia will come out and try to run the ball on St. Louis' well-ranked rush defense. Expect the Cards to play eight men in the box and force Galloway to beat them deep. Cardinals Offense vs. Eagles Defense Frank Patrick and the St. Louis offense is coming off their worst performance of the year. Grabowski indicated that the team was possibly going to "blow up the gameplan and start from scratch". Patrick has thrown way too many interceptions early in the year and must make better decisions with the ball. The line will have to do a better job protecting the quarterback as well.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|
|
|
|
04-15-2007, 03:26 PM
|
#66 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
St. Louis Barely Squeaks by Winless Eagles
St. Louis Post-Dispatch October 8, 1978 (Philadelphia, PA) - The St. Louis Cardinals overcame three fumbles by rookie running back Ricky Patton and another interception by Frank Patrick in a less than thrilling 10-3 victory over the struggling Philadelphia Eagles. Patton fumbled on the Cardinals first possession at the Eagles 2 yard line to put a halt to a successful drive. He fumbled two more times at key moments in the game, infuriating head coach Wade Grabowski. "The kid has to do a better job holding onto the football", an exasperated Grabowski said after the game. "Ricky sometimes thinks his power and speed is enough but this isn't college, this is the HFL - you have to keep two hands on the rock at all times." Philadelphia shot themselves in the foot repeatedly throughout the day, getting two long touchdowns called back due to holding penalties. Overall, they were nabbed 11 times totalling 77 yards while the Cards only received 4 calls against. The Cards offense was pretty effective in the first half, fumbles aside, notching well over 200 total yards. However, Frank Patrick and the rest of the offense fell asleep in the second half, with their six possessions ending in four punts, one interception and one missed field goal. "There were some positives in the performance and there were obviously quite a few negatives", Patrick pointed out. "We have to stop turning the ball over. Thankfully, our defense was there for us once again." Indeed, the Cardinals defense continues to improve on an almost game-by-game basis. LB Ross Brupbacher finally got back into the starting lineup and came through with six tackles and a sack. The defensive line also came up with their first sack of the year, courtesy of rookie defensive tackle Dennis Harrison, who had his best game as a pro with four tackles, one sack and one hurry. They were able to keep Philadelphia's rookie quarterback Deron Galloway running for his life all game long, holding the team to only 7 first downs. "We mixed things up quite a bit with our coverages intentionally to keep him guessing", Brupbacher said. "I thought he still performed quite well and we were pretty fortunate that their two TD's were called back." Galloway ended up going 14 of 27 for only 120 yards with one key interception, that by backup corner Dusty Hartman, who snared a Galloway pass at the Cardinals goal line to end a solid Eagles drive. Eagles star running back Joe Profit was effective, with 132 yards on only 17 carries but the Eagles were forced to put the ball up in the air in the second half, negating Profit's performance. Grabowski said that the team was fortunate to come out on top. "We need to be a lot better than this if we're to chase down the Rams for a playoff spot", he concluded. Week 6, 1978 Played in Philadelphia, PA (54 degrees, fair, calm)
Drive Charts
Rushing Statistics
THE OFFENSE - ∙ Patrick wasn't asked to do much as the team stuck with the run for the most part. His interception came on a third and long but he still seems a bit uneasy with the offense. ∙ Eddie Ray just doesn't have the endurance to carry the load on his own and Patton is having a tremendous amount of difficulty holding onto the football, with 5 fumbles in his first six games. Coach Wade Grabowski hinted that the team may use Arnold Weber more in coming games if Patton can't get over his fumble-itis. ∙ Stallworth had an excellent game and showed no difficulty making catches with his broken hand. Teams are starting to double team HFL leading receiver Herman Franklin a bit more and Patrick is being forced to look elsewhere, with diminishing returns. Wes Chandler has really regressed after a solid start to the year and may end up being replaced as the fourth wideout by Herb Washington. ∙ The offensive line was much better than the Dallas contest, as Patrick was only knocked down once and wasn't sacked, quite the accomplishment considering that sackmaster Gary Burley was on the other side. The blocking was improved as well and guard Levert Carr was named player of the game while also receiving mention for player of the week honours. THE DEFENSE - ∙ The front three finally were credited with their first sack of the year. First round pick Dennis Harrison was flying all day, as was Harry Gunner. Jack Youngblood continues to disappoint. ∙ Ross Brupbacher returned to the starting lineup and gives the Cards a fearsome four man linebacking corp. Rossovich, McGill and rookie Barton all had fine games as did backup Tom Stincic, who recorded his team-leading third sack in the contest. ∙ Ike Thomas also returned to the starting lineup and led the way in the secondary along with partner Nate Wright. Rookie corner Blaine Sanford continues to improve his game on a weekly basis. SPECIAL TEAMS - ∙ Bobby Walden had one of his poorest efforts of the year, with a number of unsightly touchbacks in the punting department. Former first round pick Steve Mayer continues to have trouble with accuracy, missing two more easy field goals. Kick coverage continues to be a strong point this year. INJURIES - ∙ Starting cornerback Charlie Waters suffered a hip pointer midway through the game and did not return. He is listed as doubtful on the injury report for next week. If he can't suit up, ball hawk Ethan Heupel would dress for the first time this season. The Cardinals still have plenty of work to do if they are to be considered a playoff contender. They will have a tough week of practices as they prepare to face struggling division rival Seattle next week back in St. Louis. The Seahawks have started 1-4 and are coming off a bye week so they will be well-rested.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
04-15-2007, 07:14 PM
|
#67 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
1978 Season: Week Seven Preview
St. Louis Post-Dispatch October 14, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) -  The St. Louis Cardinals are looking for their first winning streak of the season as they host GM Chinaski and the 1-4 Seattle Seahawks in an NFC West matchup. The Seahawks should be well-rested coming off a bye week. They picked up their only win of the season, a 26-0 shutout in their last contest against the same Philadelphia Eagles that St. Louis defeated in week six. Seattle will be without star safety Butch Atkinson, who tore some knee cartilage in week four against the Washington Redskins. Other than that, the team is pretty healthy. The Seahawks are led at quarterback by nine-year veteran Dennis Shaw. He's a steady but unspectacular performer but can make all the throws and is tough to sack. Unfortunately for Shaw, there aren't a great deal of playmakers on the Seattle offense. Richie Blunt is the starting tailback, a speedy and smart runner from Washington. He doesn't like to run between the tackles, however. Jerome Barkum and Calvin Jones are the two starters at wideout. Barkum is a steady possession receiver while Jones is more dangerous as a returner. The Hawks don't really have anyone to spread the field. TE Dennis Hughes is a solid all-around performer but isn't used much in the passing game. The offensive line is pretty strong with veteran left tackle Terry Owens leading the way. Ed "Too Tall" Jones is one of the finest young defensive ends in the game but only has a half a sack this year. He could break out this game. The linebacking corp is average at best but Brad Dusek is a fine performer in the middle. The secondary is really strong but will sorely miss the talents of Atkinson in this contest. Seattle is very strong at the corners with Tim Fox and Gary Barbaro but may be a bit suspect at the safety position with youngster Kennedy Gillette and nine-year man Bo Gephart. St. Louis hasn't been effective on offense for two weeks now and will once again need to do a better job protecting the football if they are to have a chance in this game. Frank Patrick has to start performing to his capabilities as well. The defense has been strong all season but will likely be missing a key player in Charlie Waters, who is doubtful at the moment with a hip pointer. KEY MATCHUPS - Cardinals Offensive Tackles vs. Seahawks Too Tall Jones Jones' effectiveness may be somewhat limited due to the 3-4 scheme the team is running. However, the Cardinals tackles will have to be conscious of where he is at all times. Cardinals Offense vs. Seahawks Defense Seattle has a number of playmakers on the defensive side of the ball and the Cardinals propensity to turn the ball over may put them in dire straits.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|
|
|
|
04-19-2007, 11:47 AM
|
#68 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
Cardinals Stink Up the Joint in Loss to Seahawks
St. Louis Post-Dispatch October 15, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) - It was another case of 'too little, too late' for the St. Louis Cardinals as they once again failed to put together consecutive victories, falling to divisional rival Seattle 17-14 on Sunday afternoon. The Cards drop to 3-4 after the decision. Once again, turnovers were the key statistic, with quarterback Frank Patrick throwing three interceptions and rookie running back Ricky Patton fumbling for the sixth time in seven games. The offense continues to have trouble gaining steam and Patrick just hasn't shown he's capable of minimizing mistakes. One of his interceptions was returned 80 yards for a touchdown while another was at the Seattle goalline. Patrick refused to comment after the game, instead storming past reporters on his way out of the locker room. Frustration has certainly set in. "Plain and simple, we're just not getting the job done on offense", coach Wade Grabowski said quietly after the game. "Frank gets a lot of criticism and it's certainly not all his doing but he is the team leader and has to accept that responsibility. The team is relying on him to step up and take over when the going gets tough." There are many problems on offense, something that is easy to see when dissecting the club's first ten drives: four punts, a missed field goal, a lost fumble, three interceptions and a loss of downs. They didn't get on track until they were down 17-0, scoring two late touchdowns and getting an opportunity with two minutes left to either tie or win the game. Patrick then threw four consecutive incompletions to end their chances. "No disrespect to Seattle but these are the games we have to win if we're to make a push for the postseason", Grabowski admitted. "They came into our barn, struggling at 1-4 and we just have to find a way to win those games. But it's pretty much impossible to overcome four turnovers - the teams in this league are too talented." Week 7, 1978 Played in St. Louis, MO (47 degrees, fair, calm)
Drive Charts
Rushing Statistics
THE OFFENSE - ∙ Patrick is not progressing whatsoever. He continues to give the ball away at inopportune times and seems to lock into one receiver way too often, telegraphing what he's about to do. ∙ Ray's struggles with conditioning continue and he just isn't capable of being a starter anymore. Patton just can't seem to hold onto the football. Is it time for Arnold Weber to get a chance? ∙ Stallworth once again is showing why he is among the better young receivers in the game after his 183 yard performance. Franklin has really slowed down since Stallworth returned to full health and now has fallen to third in the league in receptions. ∙ The offensive line gave up three sacks and Patrick was under pressure all day. THE DEFENSE - ∙ The defense continues to be the shining light in '78. Dennis Harrison continues to improve on a game-by-game basis and piled up six tackles in the contest. Harry Gunner, while not a factor in the pash rush game, continues to play stout run defense. ∙ Ross Brupbacher piled up 11 tackles on the day and seems to be finding his groove. With Rossovich and Barton also playing at a high level, this unit is quickly turning into a strength. ∙ The secondary, which played without the inactive Charlie Waters, wasn't tested much and only allowed 126 yards through the air. SPECIAL TEAMS - ∙ Bobby Walden got back on track with another stellar performance (44.3 net average). Steve Mayer continues to miss big kicks, although he's been snakebitten with an inordinate amount of 40 yard+ kicks. However, he needs to start coming through if he's to keep his job. INJURIES - ∙ Defensive end Harry Gunner is suffering from Knee Bursitis but isn't expected to miss any time. Waters has been upgraded to questionable for next week's contest after being inactive against Seattle. This was one of the more brutal performances of the year for St. Louis in a game they desperately needed to keep up with frontrunner Los Angeles. They've had the easiest schedule in the HFL and just haven't taken advantage of it. It only gets harder from here. The Cards will host the 6-1 Washington Redskins in the toughest matchup of the year thus far. The Skins hold a half-game lead on the Dallas Cowboys for first in the NFC East and their fantastic running game led by John Isenbarger will be tough to contend with.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
04-19-2007, 09:40 PM
|
#69 |
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
1978 Season: Week Eight Preview
St. Louis Post-Dispatch October 21, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) -  The NFC East-leading Washington Redskins bring their impressive 6-1 record into St. Louis to face the inconsistent Cardinals in a pivotal, midseason game for the redbirds. The Redskins are coming off a dominating 20-0 victory over the winless Philadelphia Eagles but should get a bit of a stiffer test against a stout Cardinal defense. Washington will likely be without top free agent acquisition Jerry Daanen for the game. The veteran wide receiver is still suffering from turf toe and is listed as doubtful on the injury report. Stellar defensive tackle Jeff Yeates is also on the report but will suit up with his hyperextended knee. The Skins have used a wonderful, ball-control system to great effect in '78 and are led by quarterback Joe Kapp, who has been nothing short of brilliant. His quarterback rating of 117.3 is amongst the best in the league as is his spectacular completion percentage of 71.4. Then, you have to deal with the workhorse John Isenbarger, who is not only a threat in the running game but also leads the team in receptions. He is averaging 28 carries a game and is one yard short of Archie Griffin for the HFL lead in rushing yardage. He won't wow you with moves but runs hard and hurts linebackers with his power and speed. With Daanen out, you will likely see Bo Casey and Paul Zaeske line up on the outside. Both are very capable of beating their man downfield and have helped Kapp stretch the field this year. Free agent pickup Rayfield Wright leads a solid line. They are better run blockers than pass blockers, however, and Kapp has been known to take a few too many sacks over his career. The defense overall is very strong and is led by an underrated line. Jim Mitchell has been a beast this year and the tackle duo of Yeates and Kevin Hardy is among the best in the league. The three-man linebacking crew is also top-notch, with 8-year man Isiah Robertson being the top dog. 12 year veteran Dick Butkus continues to play at a high level on the inside. The secondary is also pretty strong. Safety Ervin Hunt is the star on this unit, although rookie Estus Hood could eventually take that crown with additional seasoning. It will be interesting to see who has the better game between Hood and fellow rookie Blaine Sanford, as both have eerily similar stats through seven games. The Cardinals come into the game looking to make up for an embarrassing offensive showing last week against Seattle. There are rumors that rookie running back Ricky Patton may lose carries to Arnold Weber due to his alarming tendency to fumble the ball. Quarterback Frank Patrick is also under fire in St. Louis, as the former Chicago pivot has been very underwhelming thus far in his tenure here. Offensive coordinator Rich Lewandowski was installing a few new packages and schemes into the gameplan this week to help Patrick and the offense, who have an unsightly -10 turnover ratio through seven games, third worst in the league. KEY MATCHUPS - Cardinals Front Seven vs. Redskins John Isenbarger Say what you will about Joe Kapp's impressive start to the year but the Skins offense starts and ends with workhorse back John Isenbarger. You can't stop the guy, especially with the amount of touches he gets but if the Cardinals can contain him, they may have a chance at outscoring Washington. Frank Patrick vs. Redskins Defense It really all comes down to Patrick. He has to do a better job leading this team and eliminating mistakes if they are to contend for a playoff position. He will face his toughest test yet, against a very solid defensive unit. Washington is very tough against the run so he will have to show incredible patience all game if the team is to succeed.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo |
|
|
|
|
04-26-2007, 07:28 PM
|
#70 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
College Benchwarmer
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: St. Catharines, Canada
|
St. Louis 'Offensive' in Loss to Redskins
St. Louis Post-Dispatch October 22, 1978 (St. Louis, MO) - The St. Louis Cardinals lost their second consecutive game and third in four in a very disappointing 16-9 decision against the visiting Washington Redskins. Once again, the culprit was Frank Patrick and the Cards sputtering offense, which gained a paltry 193 yards on the day against a very solid Washington defense. Even with rookie Ricky Patton stapled to the sidelines, the redbirds couldn't hold onto the ball, turning it over three more times to reach 21 on the season. Patrick threw two more interceptions while running back Eddie Ray lost a fumble. Full credit must be given to the Redskins defense, as they swarmed Patrick all day, sacking him four times and hurrying him six more. "They came at us in waves and we just couldn't get into a groove", a dejected Patrick said from his locker stall. "They beat us up pretty good out there." The Cardinals defense did a fine job containing Washington running back John Isenbarger, limiting him to 84 yards on 25 carries. However, QB Joe Kapp picked up the slack, especially early in the contest. He finished 15 of 24 for 225 yards. The loss overshadowed a fantastic performance from linebacker Ross Brupbacher, who literally was all over the field. He was in on 16 tackles and also registered 1.5 sacks. The player of the game was Washington linebacker Dave Washington, who was in on five tackles, notched two sacks and picked off a pass. Cardinals coach Wade Grabowski was short and to the point after the game. "Our offense just has to start scoring points", he spewed. "We were fortunate to even register nine today and wouldn't have if not for Stevie", he said, referring to placekicker Mayer, who made three long field goals. "There is no flow out there and we will have to continue to work on our gameplanning. We installed a more conventional passing attack to little success so I guess it's back to the drawing board." Grabowski indicated that the 3-5 Cardinals may start giving some youngsters more repetitions in coming weeks if the losses continue to mount. But he refused to concede that the season was over. "There are still plenty of games to get back into the race. We have a bye next week then face the division leaders (Los Angeles). If we are fortunate enough to win that one, we're right back in this thing." Week 8, 1978
Played in St. Louis, MO (63 degrees, fair, calm)
Drive Charts
Game MVP: Dave Washington, Washington Redskins Rushing Statistics
Passing Statistics
Receiving Statistics
Interception Statistics
Fumble Statistics
Punting Statistics
Kicking Statistics
Punt Return Statistics
Kick Return Statistics
Defensive Statistics
Pass Rush Statistics
∙ Patrick's struggles continue. His inability to spread the ball around this season is allowing defenses to key in on one or two guys, resulting in turnovers. The coordinator needs to get more people involved in the offense. ∙ Arnold Weber got an opportunity to play but wasn't impressive. Patton was benched but he's the biggest gamebreaker the team has at tailback and must play, even if it means some fumbles. Ray has hardly anything left in his tank. ∙ Drops continue to plague the receiving corp. Franklin leads the league with 8 and Stallworth isn't far behind. ∙ The offensive line gave up four sacks and Patrick was under pressure all day. THE DEFENSE - ∙ The defensive line had a quiet day but were pretty effective stopping the run. ∙ Ross Brupbacher continues to show that he's fully recovered from his broken leg with 16 tackles. Rossovich and Barton were also strong and Tom Stincic continues to find a way to get to opposing quarterbacks, notching his fourth sack of the season, a team-high. ∙ The secondary gave up a lot in front of them early but settled down and stopped Kapp in the second half. SPECIAL TEAMS - ∙ Bobby Walden continues to put up Pro Bowl numbers. Steve Mayer had one of his better games in his career, going a perfect 3 for 3, with all the kicks over 40 yards including a monster 56 yarder. INJURIES - ∙ None. The poor performances continue, with this the fourth stinker in a row when you include the tight 10-3 win over hapless Philadelphia. The Cards get a week to try to recover before they head on the road to face the NFC West leaders, the Los Angeles Rams.
__________________
MY CURRENT FM19 DYNASTY - FM19: "Ludere causa Ludendi - To Play for the Sake of Playing" - Queen's Park FC (Scottish League Two) MY OLD FM11 DYNASTY - FM11: From Semi-Pro Minnows to the EPL - Dover Athletic FC My Personal Blog - Now on the Tee - Golf, Sports, Poker, Life 2006 GOLDEN SCRIBE AWARD WINNER FOR BEST 'OTHER SPORT' DYNASTY - EHM2005: Sharpening Swords in Buffalo Last edited by NoSkillz : 04-26-2007 at 07:30 PM. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 |
| Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests) | |
| Thread Tools | |
|
|
