~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

Matchup Preview | September 28, 2014
	@
Miami Dolphins (1-2, 0-1 Away)		Oakland Raiders (0-3, 0-1 Home)
Injury Report Ryan Tannehill(QB) Broken Ribs(2 weeks) Denarius Moore(WR) Shoulder Tear(3 weeks) Game Notes The Dolphins and Raiders kickoff across the pond in London. The Raiders are trying to avoid a 0-4 start while the Dolphins look to end their 2 game slide. Oakland is sporting the worst Offense in the league with Quarterback Matt Schaub struggling to find consistency. Miami is rocking a top 10 Defense and with Tannehill still out have Marcus Vick who is finding a rhythm in his Career.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~



RAIDERS show signs of improvement but fall to DOLPHINS 48-21 in London...




RECAP




LONDON- It was a rainy football game today when the Miami Dolphins and Oakland Raiders met at Wembley Stadium. The Raiders have been struggling bad this year especially on Offense where they struggled to move the ball. Raiders Quarterback Matt Schaub has been awful this year and today was no different. After constant 3 and outs to start the game running the ball, Schaub was sacked early in the 2nd Quarter and dislocated his elbow. He was removed from the game by Head Coach Dennis Allen and the Training Staff.

"I couldn't move it it hurt that bad." Schaub stated.

The Raiders(0-4) trotted out Rookie Quarterback Derek Carr to try and give some life to a struggling Raiders team that have now lost 4 straight.

Carr showed much promise from his disastrous Pre-Season games. But not by much.

Carr finished the day completing only 45% of his passes. 15/33 for 182 yards and a TD. He also ran for one score.

"I had a rough Training Camp when I got here. I work hard week after week so I can be more better for the team." Derek Carr stated.

Oakland drafted Derek Carr in the 2014 Draft with hopes of developing him to be the future Franchise Quarterback. Matt Schaub was brought in to help mentor Carr.

"We seen him struggle in Camp and in Pre-Season which is why Matt (Schaub) was our starter for the Season." Raiders Head Coach Dennis Allen stated.

But the Raiders have sputtered out of the gate with Schaub at QB.

Now with Matt Schaub sidelined for the next 6 weeks with his dislocated elbow, Oakland will probably turn to Carr to get him some playing time.

"That's not a final decision yet." Allen stated. "We have other Quarterbacks we'll look at to see who can give us a great chance to win games."

The Dolphins simply ran over Oakland today and taking adventaged of Raiders 4 fumbles probably due to the rainy weather.

"I thought we played well today. The weather did no one any favors but how we adapted to it deserves some praise." Dolphins Head Coach Joe Philbin stated.

The Dolphins(2-2) have rallied behind their Rookie QB Marcus Vick who is filling in for the injured Ryan Tannehill.

UP NEXT

Raiders(0-4) on Week 5 BYE.

Dolphins(2-2) on Week 5 BYE.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

Matchup Preview | September 28, 2014
	@
Jacksonville Jaguars (1-2, Away)		San Diego Chargers (2-1, Home)
Injury Report Demetrius McCray(CB) Shoulder Tear(2 Weeks) Chris Watt(RG) Dislocated Ankle(2 Weeks) Eddie Royal(WR) Broken Collarbone(4 Weeks) Game Notes Blake Bortles makes his debut today after missing all year with a Broken Collarbone.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

CHARGERS squeak past JAGUARS 23-17 in SAN DIEGO..



RECAP




San Diego, CA- If there was ever a definition of an "Ugly Win" it would be today's game for the San Diego Chargers. The Chargers jumped out to a 20-0 halftime lead and then proceeded to sputter the entire second half.

"It was ugly. Absolutely ugly." Chargers Head Coach Mike McCoy stated. "Took our foot off the gas once we got up 20 points and allowed them to almost win."

Jacksonville refused to go down without a fight. Rookie Quarterback Blake Bortles made his debut and led Jags down for a 20-10 Chargers lead.

San Diego would kick a FG to give themselves a cushion but it was the Bolts Defense who preserved the win for San Diego today.

The Chargers sacked Bortles 7 times and pressured him all game long.

"Our Defense really got us out of tough spots today. We put them in some bad places with how we stalled out on Offense." Chargers Quarterback Phillip Rivers stated.

Rivers struggled a bit himself in his second game back from injury completing just 50% of his passes for a Touchdown and pick.

Bortles was about the same.

"It was a great front seven today. They had a lot of pressure on us and we couldn't get rolling." Jaguars Head Coach Gus Bradley stated.

The Chargers(3-1) stuffed the pocket on every play and made life miserable for Jags Running Back Toby Gerhart who only managed 53 yards on 19 carries.

Chargers Running Back Ryan Matthews was the opposite. Racking up 166 yards off 30 carries for a Touchdown.

"He was a beast today. Great back." Chargers Head Coach Mike McCoy stated.

The Jaguars(1-3) comeback fell short on a last second hailmary by Blake Bortles.

"We fought all the way and to fall short is a pretty terrible feeling." Jaguars Quarterback Blake Bortles stated.

"Taking the foot of the gas like that is going to cost us games. We won today but it was ugly. 3-1 feels great though but we still have a long way to go." Rivers stated.

"We showed character today. " Jaguars Head Coach Gus Bradley stated. "Kept fighting until the final whistle."

The Chargers Defense ranked Top 5 entering the game today and they showed why racking up 7 sacks.

UP NEXT

Chargers(3-1) VS Jets(2-2) Next Sunday.

Jaguars(1-3) VS Steelers(2-2) Next Sunday.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

Matchup Preview | September 28, 2014
	@
Philadelphia Eagles (2-1, 0-1 Away)		San Francisco 49ers (1-2, 1-0 Home)

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

49ERS overcome early struggles to beat EAGLES 22-10 in Santa Clara..



RECAP




Santa Clara, CA- The 49ers started the game the same way they did last week vs the Arizona Cardinals.

With a Kaepernick fumble.

49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick fumbled on both opening drives while doing what he likes to do best. Run.

The Eagles we're only able to put 7 on the board thanks to the 9ers Defense.

However the 49ers(2-2) would overcome the struggle to beat the Eagles(2-2) today inside Levi's Stadium.

The game was a defensive battle from the start as both teams Defense took center stage. Both Offense's struggled early on but it would be Harbaugh's Crew getting the win.

"It was a struggle for sure but we held on and didn't flinch." 49ers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh stated.

"It was a contest of who would blink first and unfortunently that was us. That's a really good football team over there." Eagles Head Coach Chip Kelly stated.

So good that the Philadelphia Eagles only managed 160 total yards on the day.

The 49ers Defense was to much for Nick Foles and Company to handle.

"Have to give credit to them. Their front seven, their secondary, everything was well coached today." Eagles Quarterback Nick Foles stated.

Foles finished the day with 132 yards passing and a Touchdown.

"Our Defense balled out today. The way we're playing I don't think there's anybody that can stop us." 49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick stated.

Kaepernick had 184 yards and a Touchdown. He also rushed for 60 yards.

Veteran Running Back Frank Gore picked up 129 yards and a Touchdown off 26 carries.

"I thought we ran the ball very well today. Kaep needs to hold on to the ball to cut down on the turnovers but overall it was a great job." Harbaugh stated.

SACKS

Both Quarterbacks we're sacked 9 times today in a battle of pressuring the QB.

"Need to protect better. Can't allow our Quarterback to take hits like that." Eagles Center Jon Dorenbos stated.

Eagles Running Back Shady McCoy struggled to get anything going against the 9ers Front Seven.

He only managed 53 yards off 16 carries.

"That Defense is no joke. Give them the props they deserve." Shady McCoy stated.

UP NEXT

49ers(2-2) VS Chiefs(3-0) Next Sunday.

Eagles(2-2) VS Rams(1-2) Next Sunday.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

Ryan, FALCONS beat VIKINGS 31-20!



RECAP




Minneapolis, MN- Atlanta took advantaged of the Vikings biggest flaw.

Their Defense.

Everyone knows Minnesota(0-4) is having a rebuild year but hard to believe with a great Defensive minded Head Coach Mike Zimmer the defense is terrible. Such is to be the case with the Minnesota Vikings.

"It's a process. Takes time to build a monster but that's what we're doing." Vikings Head Coach Mike Zimmer stated.

No one is expecting the Vikings to be a contender just yet. Let's not forget they we're playing Musical Quarterbacks the first month of the Season as well.

The Falcons(2-2) seized the opportunity in getting a bounce back win after losing last week to the Buccaneers.

"We needed to have a good game to bounce back and we did that today." Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith stated.

Falcons Quarterback Matt Ryan led the charge with 411 yards and 2 Touchdowns.

Ryan was sacked 5 times by the Vikings Defense but their biggest flaw is getting stops. Minnesota struggled to get any stops on Defense and let Atlanta pick up 22 first Downs.

"We're still struggling to get any turnovers and stops. We pressured Ryan really good today but need to work on getting stops." Zimmer stated.

Vikings Quarterback Matt Cassel was solid throwing for 289 yards and a Touchdown with a pick.

"Thought we played well until the second half when we fell apart." Cassel stated.

It was 10-10 heading into Halftime. Atlanta then ran away in the second half.

The Vikings we're solid on Offense racking up 417 yards.

"Still a lot of work to do for us to get to where we want to go." Head Coach Zimmer stated.

Both Running Backs took advantaged of poor Defenses as Adrian Peterson got 116 yards and Steven Jackson got 118 yards.

UP NEXT

Vikings(0-4) @ Packers(2-2) on Thursday Night Football.

Falcons(2-2) @ Giants(3-1) Next Sunday.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

Turnovers doom SAINTS in 34-20 loss to COWBOYS on PRIMETIME...



RECAP



Arlington, TX- The lights we're on bright and it was Sunday Night Football at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The much anticipated "Game of the Week" between two undefeated teams proved to be otherwise. The Saints(3-1) came into Dallas rocking the #1 Offense and #3 Defense and raced out to a 3-0 start. Dallas was up to the challenge.

Saints Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan was all smiles the first 3 games after the Saints defeated Atlanta, Cleveland, and Minnesota last week.

The Saints looked to be possibly the best team in the league entering the Primetime matchup with the Dallas Cowboys(4-0).

But Dallas was up to the challenge. Defensive Coordinator Rod Marinelli was up for the challenge.

"When you watch tape on Drew (Brees) this year alone he's playing at a MVP level like always. He had zero Interceptions coming in. It was a challenge for me to get our guys ready." Cowboys Defensive Coordinator Rod Marinelli stated.

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees came into Dallas with 11 Touchdowns and 0 picks.

The first play of the game set up the tone of what would come for the Saints. Brees tested the coverage and threw a bomb down the right sideline looking for Robert Meachum but it was picked off by Cowboys Defensive Back J.J Wilcox.

That would be the tone for the game.

Drew Brees and the Saints struggled. Brees finished the day with 176 yards, 2 Touchdowns, and 4 Interceptions.

The Cowboys simply dominated New Orleans.

"It was a great performance by them. They had a great scheme coming in. " Saints Head Coach Sean Payton stated.

The turnovers doomed New Orleans(3-1) and put the Defense in bad spots. Cowboys Running Back Demarco Murray rushed for 184 yards off 24 carries.

"Very pleased with our performance tonight. New Orleans is a great team. Great Coach over there." Cowboys Head Coach Jason Garrett stated.

Cowboys Backup QB Brandon Weeden was solid throwing 137 yards and a Touchdown of his own. He was also picked off but New Orleans failed to do anything with it.

"Turnovers we're my fault. I need to do a better job protecting the football." Saints Quarterback Drew Brees stated.

UP NEXT

Saints(3-1) VS Buccaneers(3-1) next Sunday.

Cowboys(4-0) VS Texans(2-2) next Sunday.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

Tom Brady's Epic Game Winning Drive leads PATRIOTS over CHIEFS 44-41 at Arrowhead Stadium...



RECAP



Kansas City, MO- The Monday Night Showdown between the Chiefs and Patriots kept fans on the edge of their seats.

And for good reason. It was a shootout.

After 14 straight points by Kansas City, New England would battle back. The Chiefs would take a 17-10 lead into Halftime.

The second half was a different story.

"We knew we needed to make adjustments heading out for the second half. Kansas City is a great team and was making things difficult for us." Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick stated.

Kansas City(3-1) fell apart in the second half giving up 34 points.

"Nobody adjusts better than them. " Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid stated.

Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady came to life in the Second half throwing 336 yards and 2 Touchdowns.

The Patriots Defense adjusted and picked off Alex Smith 3 times.

"They always make you work to be better. Really great team over there. Great Coach. Everything. " Chiefs Quarterback Alex Smith stated.

The downfall for Kansas City was giving the ball back to Tom Brady and New England with less than 2 minutes left in the 4th Quarter with the score tied at 41-41.

We all know what happens next.

Epic Game Winning Drive by arguably the Greatest QB ever.

"Once he got the ball we we're screwed." Joked Rookie Chiefs DB Brian Pope. "Seriously now, he's the Greatest and that's why."

The Chiefs(3-1) will now look for answers as they get ready to head to new Levi's Stadium next week to face the 49ers(2-2) which marks Alex Smith's first return back to face the 9ers.

UP NEXT

Chiefs(3-1) @ 49ers(2-2) Next Sunday.

Patriots(3-1) VS Bengals(2-1) Next Sunday on Sunday Night Football.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

WEEK 4 RECAP PART 1

Week 4 Scoreboard

Thursday's Games

Giants 37 Redskins 23

Sunday's Games

Packers 20 Bears 27

Bills 35 Texans 10

Titans 38 Colts 21

Panthers 0 Ravens 59

Lions 16 Jets 40

Buccaneers 27 Steelers 24

Dolphins 48 Raiders 21

Jaguars 17 Chargers 23

Eagles 10 49ers 22

Falcons 31 Vikings 20

Saints 20 Cowboys 34 (SNF)

Monday's Games

Patriots 44 Chiefs 41

BYE WEEKS: Cardinals, Bengals, Browns, Broncos, Rams, Seahawks

PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

NFC OFFENSE: DeMarco Murray(HB)(Cowboys)- 24 Carries, 184 yards, 2 Touchdowns.

NFC DEFENSE: Stevie Brown(FS)(Giants)- 10 Tackles, 2 Interceptions.


AFC OFFENSE: Shonn Greene(HB)(Titans)- 25 Carries, 93 Yards, 3 Touchdowns, 4 Catches, 49 yards, 1 Touchdown.

AFC DEFENSE: Darelle Revis(CB)(Patriots)- 6 Tackles, 2 Interceptions, 1 Touchdown.

NFL League Leaders - Updated: Sep 30, 2014
QB Rating (Active)		QBR	Touchdowns		TD's
	1. Jay Cutler	119.6		1. Drew Brees	13
	2. Andy Dalton(CIN)	119.6		2. Eli Manning(NYG)	11
	3. Drew Brees(NO)	115.2		3. Andy Dalton(CIN)	10
	4. Tom Brady(NE)	113.9		4. John David Booty(R)(NYJ)	10
	5. Aaron Rodgers(GB)	107.2		5. Jay Cutler(CHI)	9
Yards		Yards	Interceptions		INTs
	1. Drew Brees	1,265		1. Peyton Manning	12
	2. Tom Brady(NE)	1,238		2. Andrew Luck(IND)	8
	3. Matt Ryan(ATL)	1,219		3. Kirk Cousins(WAS)	8
	4. Tyrod Taylor(BAL)	1,198		4. Josh McCown(TB)	7
	5. Josh McCown(TB)	1,196		5. Ben Roethlisberger(PIT)	7
Rushing Yards		yards	Rushing Touchdowns
	1. Adrian Peterson	523		1. Shane Vereen	6
	2. Jammal Charles(KC)	500		2. Shonn Greene(TEN)	6
	3. Alfred Morris(WAS)	495		3. Shady McCoy(PHI)	5
	4. Doug Martin(TB)	450		4. Pierre Thomas(NO)	5
	5. DeMarco Murray(DAL)	447		5. Reggie Bush(DET)	5
Receiving Yards			Touchdowns
	1. Marques Colston	440		1. Louis Murphy, Jr	6
	2. Wes Welker(DEN)	440		2. Mike Wallace(MIA)	5
	3. Johnny Ford(R)(MIN)	436		3. Mark Walker(R)(NYJ)	5
	4. Mike Wallace(MIA)	364		4. ODB(NYG)	5
	5. A.B (PIT)	351		5. Marques Colston(NO)	4

NFL League Leaders - Updated: Sep 30, 2014
Tackles			Sacks
	1. D'Qwell Jackson	46		1. Aldon Smith	9
	2. Demeco Ryans(PHI)	44		2. Cameron Wake(MIA)	8
	3. Akeem Jordan(WAS)	40		3. Jared Allen(CHI)	7
	4. Donald Butler(SD)	38		4. Ezekiel Ansah(DET)	7
	5. Louis Delmas(MIA)	37		5. Dante Fowler(R)(JAX)	5
Interceptions
	1. 5 tied at	5		1.
	2.			2.
	3.			3.
	4.			4.
	5.			5.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

WEEK 4 RECAP PART 2

NFL Standings - Updated: Sep 30, 2014
NFC EAST	W	L	T	PF	PA
Dallas Cowboys	4	0	0	140	102
New York Giants	3	1	0	140	91
Philadelphia Eagles	2	2	0	117	112
Washington Redskins	1	3	0	90	125
NFC NORTH	W	L	T	PF	PA
Chicago Bears	3	1	0	97	109
Detroit Lions	2	2	0	109	104
Green Bay Packers	2	2	0	119	108
Minnesota Vikings	0	4	0	99	162
NFC SOUTH	W	L	T	PF	PA
New Orleans Saints	3	1	0	148	67
Tampa Bay Buccaneers	3	1	0	126	131
Atlanta Falcons	2	2	0	113	127
Carolina Panthers	1	3	0	74	155
NFC WEST	W	L	T	PF	PA
Arizona Cardinals	2	1	0	63	55
Seattle Seahawks	2	1	0	101	66
San Francisco 49ers	2	2	0	112	77
St. Louis Rams	1	2	0	90	93
NFC WILD CARD RACE	W	L	T	PF	PA
N/A
AFC EAST	W	L	T	PF	PA
New England Patriots	3	1	0	146	117
Miami Dolphins	2	2	0	121	89
New York Jets	2	2	0	115	97
Buffalo Bills	2	2	0	106	74
AFC NORTH	W	L	T	PF	PA
Baltimore Ravens	2	2	0	143	80
Pittsburgh Steelers	2	2	0	99	85
Cincinatti Bengals	2	2	0	100	89
Cleveland Browns	1	2	0	48	113
AFC SOUTH	W	L	T	PF	PA
Houston Texans	2	2	0	93	106
Jacksonville Jaguars	1	3	0	91	107
Tennessee Titans	1	3	0	98	120
Indianapolis Colts	1	3	0	112	156
AFC WEST	W	L	T	PF	PA
San Diego Chargers	3	1	0	82	83
Kansas City Chiefs	3	1	0	133	98
Denver Broncos	1	2	0	91	95
Oakland Raiders	0	4	0	40	163
AFC WILD CARD RACE	W	L	T	PF	PA
N/A

WEEK 4 POWER RANKINGS

The Score

-Cowboys take over #1 Spot with their impressive victory over Saints on Sunday Night Football. Also only last unbeaten team.

-Patriots/Saints/Chiefs round out Top 5 with Seattle.

-Battle for the NFC North Supremacy as Bears, Lions, Packers battle it out in Top 10. Eagles/9ers wrap up Top 10.

-Steelers/ Texans Drop HARD after very poor performances in Month of September.

- Falcons back in middle of the pack.

-Vikings/Raiders only winless teams left.

Week 4 Power Rankings
RK (LW)	Team	Record	Next Game
1 (3)	Dallas Cowboys	4-0	VS Houston(2-2)
2 (4)	New England Patriots	3-1	VS Cincinnati(2-2)
3 (1)	New Orleans Saints	3-1	VS Tampa Bay(3-1)
4 (2)	Kansas City Chiefs	3-1	@ San Francisco(2-2)
5 (5)	Seattle Seahawks	2-1	@ Washington(1-3)
6 (10)	Chicago Bears	3-1	@ Carolina(1-3)
7 (6)	Green Bay Packers	2-2	VS Minnesota(0-4)
8 (9)	Detroit Lions	2-2	VS Buffalo(2-2)
9 (7)	Philadelphia Eagles	2-2	VS St. Louis(1-2)
10 (14)	San Francisco 49ers	2-2	VS Kansas City(3-1)
11 (13)	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	3-1	@ New Orleans(3-1)
12 (12)	Cincinnati Bengals	2-1	@ New England(3-1)
13 (15)	New York Giants	3-1	VS Atlnata(2-2)
14 (16)	San Diego Chargers	3-1	VS New York Jets(2-2)
15 (17)	Baltimore Ravens	2-2	@ Indianapolis(1-3)
16 (19)	New York Jets	2-2	@ San Diego(3-1)
17 (25)	Atlanta Falcons	2-2	@ New York Giants(3-1)
18 (18)	St. Louis Rams	1-2	@ Philadelphia(2-2)
19 (23)	Carolina Panthers	1-3	VS Chicago(3-1)
20 (11)	Pittsburgh Steelers	2-2	@ Jacksonville(1-3)
21 (21)	Arizona Cardinals	2-1	@ Denver(1-2)
22 (22)	Denver Broncos	1-2	VS Arizona(2-1)
23 (8)	Houston Texans	2-2	@ Dallas(4-0)
24 (20)	Indianapolis Colts	1-3	VS Baltimore(2-2)
25 (31)	Tennessee Titans	1-3	VS Cleveland(1-2)
26 (24)	Jacksonville Jaguars	1-3	VS Pittsburgh(2-2)
27 (26)	Miami Dolphins	2-2	BYE
28 (27)	Buffalo Bills	2-2	@ Detroit(2-2)
29 (29)	Cleveland Browns	1-2	@ Tennessee(1-3)
30 (28)	Washington Redskins	1-3	VS Seattle(2-1)
31 (30)	Minnesota Vikings	0-4	@ Green Bay(2-2)
32 (32)	Oakland Raiders	0-4	BYE

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

THE TOP TEN TEAMS






1. Dallas Cowboys(4-0)

Despite losing Franchise Quarterback Tony Romo in Week 2, the Boys have jumped out to a 4-0 record and rock a middle of the pack Offense and Defense. Dallas has also beat New Orleans Saints on Primetime proving people wrong. Dem Boyz down in Jerry's World are flying on Cloud 9 for the time being. Can they go 16-0? How far will this team go with Brandon Weeden under Center? Romo is set to be back in Week 7.





2. New England Patriots(3-1)

After a upset loss in South Beach, the Greatest Dynasty Ever have rocked out 3 straight wins and sit atop the AFC East. New England is coming off a Shootout victory down in Kansas City and will host the Bengals on Sunday Night Football. It's unsure or not if this is Brady's last year but New England is looking to make a deep playoff push and walk away with yet another Lombardi Trophy.




3. New Orleans Saints(3-1)

Despite falling on their faces on Sunday Night in Dallas, the Saints are still 3-1 with the #1 Offense in the NFL. And that's without Jimmy Graham. The Saints still lead the South only by half a game thanks to Tampa. However still a long way to go and the Saints are a force to be reckoned with not just in the NFC, the NFL. They will turn things around as Tampa comes to the Dome.




4. Kansas City Chiefs(3-1)

The Chiefs jumped out to a 3-0 start with impressive Defensive performances over Denver, Tennessee, and Miami. However despite a shootout loss to New England, KC is still a Super Bowl Contender with Andy Reid and Alex Smith leading the charge. The team should really make a push now that Safety Eric Berry is healthy and set to return to the Chiefs for Week 5.




5. Seattle Seahawks(2-1)

The defending Super Bowl Champions had an early BYE this year but they're coming off a performance that has defined this team since 2012. DEFENSE. In Week 3 in a Super Bowl Rematch vs Denver, the Hawks dominated picking Manning off 5 times enroute to a 41-3 thrashing in Seattle. The Seahawks rock a Top ten Defense and look to keep pushing through the season and make another run for the Super Bowl. Head Coach Pete Carroll has this team firing on all cylinders heading into October.




6. Chicago Bears(3-1)

In 2013 the Chicago Bears took a chance on CFL's Football Coach Marc Trestman. What happened next was a Cinderella story through the Season. Chicago fell short of a Playoff berth thanks to a Week 17 loss at the hands of the Packers. However this year Da Bears sit atop of the North heading into October at 3-1. Chicago even got a bit of revenge knocking off the Packers this week in Chicago (Thanks to McCarthy's playcalling.) Is this the year Chicago can make a run and return to the playoffs for the first time since 2010?




7. Green Bay Packers(2-2)

The Pack find themselves at .500 entering October. Many questions have risen over the first 4 Games. In Week 4's loss to the Chicago Bears, Head Coach Mike McCarthy made the bizarre decision to not try for an onside kick with the game on the line and Aaron Rodgers as his Quarterback. This loss comes shortly after McCarthy claimed to "Have turned over a new leaf." It appears that's just a pipe dream as McCarthy was back to his old ways. The Packers will look to get back to their winning ways when they host the winless Vikings on Thursday Night Football. Many questions are pointing to their defense which ranks among the worst in the ways. Might be time for a change on Dom Capers.




8. Detroit Lions(2-2)

The Leo's have ushered in the "Jim Caldwell Era" this year and they are off to a 2-2 start. The Lions have shown potential so far in making a run for the playoffs with a Defense and Offense in the top 15. Detroit hasn't seen the Playoffs since 2011. Is this the year Detroit makes it to January?




9. Philadelphia Eagles(2-2)

The Birds are 2-2 but have fallen short against a great team like the 49ers. However it's still early and Chip Kelly's crew can still battle it out with Dallas for the East Title. If things look to be of anything like last year, Philadelphia will have another Cinderella story with Foles under center come January. Is this the year that the City of Brotherly Love gets to celebrate their first Super Bowl?




10. San Francisco 49ers(2-2)

Jim Harbaugh's crew rounds out the list but the 9ers are still a threat in the NFC. They currently rock the 2nd best Defense in the NFL but their Offense is a different story. Their Offense sits at 21st with Kaepernick only throwing for 6 Touchdowns and 621 yards in September. On the other side of the coin however he adds more with his legs rushing for 402 yards and 3 scores. Recently, teams have been able to focus on him and make him one dimensional. If the 9ers are going to make a push for the Playoffs, Kaepernick will have to start throwing the ball more.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

WEEK 5 GAMES TO WATCH


Buffalo(2-2) @ Detroit(2-2): Keep your eyes on this one as this marks the return of Bills Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz to Mo-Town after being fired by the Lions last year.


Tampa Bay(3-1) @ New Orleans(3-1)

The two hottest teams in the NFC South will square off in Week 5 with Tampa Bay trailing New Orleans by a half game for the South lead. The Saints look to rebound after falling flat on their face in Dallas. Lovie Smith and Josh McCown look to keep pushing Tampa Bay to January.


San Francisco(2-2) VS Kansas City(3-1): Quarterback Alex Smith and the Kansas City Chiefs will take on the 49ers at Levi's Stadium. This marks the return of Alex Smith to the bay area since being traded to K.C.


Cincinnati(2-2) @ New England(3-1)

Tom Brady and the Patriots host Andy Dalton and the Bengals on Sunday Night Football. Both teams are defending Division Champions and if the Bengals can upset the Pats on Primetime it will give them enough confidence to contend with anyone in the AFC.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

SEPTEMBER NFC RECAP

-The first quarter of the 2014 Season is in the books. Let's take a look at each team's first quarter.


NFC NORTH





Chicago Bears(3-1)

The Monsters of the Midway had a very successful first quarter despite a Week 2 blowout loss at brand new Levi's Stadium. Head Coach Marc Trestman has really turned this franchise around and has Da Bears in first place in the North. Quarterback Jay Cutler is playing possibly his best football yet ranking as #1 in Rating and top 5 in Touchdowns. Chicago's ceiling is the limit for this Bears Team as they look to capture the Division crown and make the playoffs for the first time since 2010.




Detroit Lions(2-2)

New Head Coach Jim Caldwell has Detroit in second place and rocking the 11th best Defense in the league. The Lions in a new system this year have really adapted to it despite struggling a bit on Defense. Quarterback Matthew Stafford has had a slow month adapting throwing 7 TD's to 6 picks but the Lions look to keep building up confidence as the season wears on.




Green Bay Packers(2-2)

The Packers find themselves in a bit of trouble wrapping up September. Aaron Rodgers is playing like a MVP with over 1,000 yards and 9 Touchdowns but the Defense ranks one of the worst in the league. Doesn't help that Head Coach Mike McCarthy has lied to the fans claiming he "Turned over a new leaf." Yet his playcalling with the game on the line in Chicago proved otherwise. It's no secret Rodgers and McCarthy we're having words afterwards but only one can assume how the rest of the year plays out.




Minnesota Vikings(0-4)

When Minnesota fired Leslie Frazier in 2013 they hired Defensive minded Mike Zimmer. The plan in place and 2014 was set to be a rebuild year with Zimmer taking his time to create his monster. At 0-4 however Minnesota is in desperate need of a makeover on the Defensive side of the ball. The Vikings rank 30th in Passing yards allowed, 31st in Points allowed, and cannot take the ball away. Safety Harrison Smith is the only Viking with a pick this year. Minnesota will need to do a massive remake on Defense.




NFC EAST





Dallas Cowboys(4-0)

Even after losing Franchise Quarterback Tony Romo in Tennessee Week 2, the Cowboys have jumped out to a 4-0 record and are ranked the #1 team in the NFL. Dem Boyz recently knocked off the Saints on Primetime to add to their confidence of being a threat in 2014. Jason Garrett has done wonders this year as Dallas looks to high on cloud 9 as October approaches.




New York Giants(3-1)

After their epic collapse in Detroit on Opening Week in what's become known as the "Miracle in Mo-Town." The Giants have rattled off 3 straight victories. Eli Manning has the G-Men rocking the 2nd best Offense and talks of "The Patriot Slayers" may be back for 2014. The Giants hope to keep rolling as the Franchise have missed the playoffs the past 2 years.




Philadelphia Eagles(2-2)

The Eagles ended September with a tough loss to the 49ers. However Chip Kelly's crew have high expectations for the year after 2013 ended with heartbreak. Quarterback Nick Foles looks to have another Cinderella year and Philly looks to make a deeper push for the playoffs and bring a Super Bowl to the City of Brotherly Love.




Washington Redskins(1-3)

Just like Minnesota, the Redskins have begun 2014 with a new Head Coach and plan in place. Jay Gruden has Washington sitting at 1-3 but the team have really relied around backup Quarterback Kirk Cousins while RG3 is nursing yet another injury. However, Washington has made it known they're still committed to Griffin for 2014.



NFC SOUTH




New Orleans Saints(3-1)

Who Dat Nation is a team to be reckoned with. The Saints have the #1 Offense and Drew Brees is loaded with weapons around him. After a bad game on Primetime in Dallas, the Saints Defense still rocks the 6th best in the league. Defensive Coordinator Rob Ryan knows how to get his guys ready. The Saints look to win the South and make a deep playoff push.




Tampa Bay Buccaneers(3-1)

The reunion of Head Coach Lovie Smith and Quarterback Josh McCown has done wonders for the Buccaneers this year as the team have won 3 straight. Tampa Bay is half a game behind the Saints for first place and the team is looking for a great year. Tampa Bay has held their opponents to under 25 points a game during their winning streak and if they keep it up, Tampa Bay will finally be playing in January. Fans in Tampa Bay have high hopes for the team this year.




Atlanta Falcons(2-2)

The Falcons are coming off a 4-12 2013 Campaign and 2014 looks to be no different. The Falcons are 2-2 but the team is a mess. Quarterback Matt Ryan has just 5 Touchdowns through 4 games. The Defense is 30th in the NFL and time may be wearing thin for Head Coach Mike Smith. If Atlanta continues to struggle, Front Office may make some moves by Season's end and Smith will find himself out of Atlanta by the time January comes around.



Carolina Panthers(1-3)

Things looked promising for the Panthers after a 58-31 romp over the Buccaneers in Week one but the wheels have been coming off. The Panthers have lost 3 straight. Many fingers are pointing to both sides of the ball with Carolina's Offense and Defense among the worst in the NFL. Cam Newton has just 2 passing TD's entering Week 5. Head Coach Ron Rivera is doing his best to get his Offense out of the gutter while the Defense is also in need of a wake up call. The Panthers look to turn things around in October.


NFC WEST




Arizona Cardinals(2-1)

Coming off a early BYE the Arizona Cardinals sit in first place although not by much. The Red Birds rock the #1 Defense heading into Week 5 with a nice ball hawking unit made up of Antonio Cromartie, Deone Bucannon, Jerraud Powers, and Patrick Peterson. If the Defense can keep getting takeaways then Arizona will have a good chance at playing football in January. The Offense is another story as they rank 31st. Carson Palmer has 3 TDs to 5 picks. Head Coach Bruce Arians will look to make adjustments and get Arizona rolling.




Seattle Seahawks(2-1)

The defending Super Bowl Champions Seahawks dominated Denver in their SB rematch Week 3 41-3 before taking a early BYE. The Legion of Boom Defense is right where they left off, dominating. The Hawks made life miserable for Peyton Manning picking him off 5 times at the C-Link. Seattle is firing on all cylinders right now and Head Coach Pete Carroll has his team ready for a repeat.




San Francisco 49ers(2-2)

The 49ers rock the 2nd best Defense in the NFL and they showed why when they dominated the Eagles last Sunday. The Niners rank 5th in Points allowed, 1st in Sacks, and 8th in yards allowed. Jim Harbaugh has this unit where it's been. A dominating Defense in his tenure. The Offense is off to a sluggish start however as Kaepernick is only throwing 6 Touchdowns so far. He keeps rushing however so San Francisco is looking to challenge Seattle for the West crown.





St. Louis Rams(1-2)

The Rams are having issues this year. Quarterback Sam Bradford went down on Opening day, Backup Quarterback Shaun Hill is on I.R after tearing his Pectoral muscle. The Rams traded for Jets Backup Matt Simms to lead the team and Head Coach Jeff Fisher is finding himself struggling to win games. The Defense is top ten however and the Rams hope to find some consistency with Simms. Ownership Stan Kroenke has made no decision however yet on whether Fisher will be retained after the Season. However the Rams are still in St. Louis with heavy fanbase as rumors have circulated of a relocation.