~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

JOHNNY MANZIEL TIME IN CLEVELAND....


CLEVELAND BROWNS(0-0) VS PITTSBURGH STEELERS(0-0)


PREVIEW


PITTSBURGH- The plan originally for Cleveland when they took Johnny Manziel with the 22nd pick in the 2014 draft was to have him ride the bench while he adjusted to the NFL. However plans changed as the Pre-season came along when Quarterback Brian Hoyer suffered a broken toe and is out for a few more weeks.

Enter, Johnny Football...

First year Head Coach Mike Pettine has named Johnny Manziel his starter for the first few games while Brian Hoyer gets over his injury.

The task at hand is a division foe, the Steelers.

"We're two teams who know each other very well." Head Coach Mike Pettine stated.

Manziel is set to make his debut and he will have some solid help today in Pittsburgh.

Josh Gordon, Ben Tate, Rookie Zach Summers, Miles Austin, Andrew Hawkins, Nate Burleson, and Jordan Cameron.

"We're all excited for him. We can't wait to go out there and watch him." Browns Cornerback Joe Haden stated.

The Browns Defense will have the task of stopping Ben Roethlisberger today. The front seven will be Edge rushers Billy Winn and Desmond Bryant. Rookie Frank Clark at Defensive Tackle. The 280 pound linemen proved his spot in camp.

The Linebackers led by Paul Kruger, Karlos Dansby, and Jabaal Sheard.

When Roethlisberger chooses to throw, he'll test the coverage of Joe Haden, Rookie Justin Gilbert, Tashaun Gipson and Donte Whitner.

"He's a really good Quarterback. We have to make him make mistakes and we have to capitalize on them." Browns Cornerback Justin Gilbert stated.

On the Steelers side of the field, Big Ben has plenty to work with. Running back Le'Veon Bell. Deep WR Core of Antonio Brown, Rookie C.J Miller, Chad Hall, Darrius Heyward-Bey,Martavius Bryant, Tight End Heath Miller.

The offense is stacked.

"I like our Offense. We should put a lot of points up on the board this year." Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin stated.

The Steelers defense should prove to be nasty. Nick Williams, Cameron Heyward, Lawrence Timmons, Jason Worilds, and Cortez Allen.

"They have a lot of play makers over there. I need to pick my passes carefully." Browns QB Johnny Manziel stated.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

JOHNNY MANZIEL, CLEVELAND BROWNS Fall in PITTSBURGH to rival STEELERS 30-17!

Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers
Sep 7, 2014	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Cleveland Browns (0-0)	0	7	3	7	17
Pittsburgh Steelers (0-0)	3	14	3	10	30

Team Stats Comparison
	CLE	PIT
Total Offense	396	372
Rushing Yards	184	116
Passing Yards	212	256
First Downs	23	20
Punt Return Yards	3	11
Kick Return Yards	67	0
Total Yards	466	383
Turnovers	2	0
3rd Down Conversion	8	8
4th Down Conversion	3	0
2-Point Conversion
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals
Penalties
Posession Time	26:41	17:19

Cleveland Browns PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Johnny Manziel(52.8) 20/42 232 1 2 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Ben Tate 19 94 4.9 0 Terrance West 5 46 9.2 0 Johnny Manziel 9 41 9.2 1 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Josh Gordon 6 85 14.2 0 Miles Austin 4 46 11.5 0 Zach Summers(R) 4 38 9.5 0 Andrew Hawkins 3 27 9 1 BLOCKING PANCAKE SACK Reid Fragel 0 2 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Karlos Dansby 11 0 0 0 Buster Skrine 6 0 0 0 Donte Whitner 6 0 0 0

Pittsburgh Steelers PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Ben Roethlisberger(115.1) 25/30 269 1 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Le'Veon Bell 25 82 3.3 2 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Antonio Brown 6 53 8.8 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Troy Polamalu 8 0 0 0 Cortez Allen 6 0 2 0 Jason Worilds 3 3 0 0

RECAP


PITTSBURGH- In a much anticipated debut for Johnny Football today turned out to be a rough game in Pittsburgh when the Browns(0-1) fell to their Division Rival.

Johnny's Debut wasn't that bad going 20/42 for 232 yards and a TD while being picked off twice both by Cortez Allen.

"He's a good player." Browns Quarterback Johnny Manziel stated. "I just have to be much better when throwing the ball. I need to be smarter."

But the Browns Quarterback is still all smiles this early in the season.

"It's just one game." Said Manziel. "We need to learn from this and be much better next week vs New Orleans. "

The Browns will get starting Quarterback Brian Hoyer back in a few weeks but for now we're all enjoying the Johnny Manziel show.

"He's a fun player to watch. He is." Steelers Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger stated.

"I shook his hand after the game. Told him good luck this year I look forward to it." Steelers Cornerback Cortez Allen stated.

He picked off Manziel twice today.

"It's always good to kick off the year with a win. Especially against the division rival." Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin stated.

The Steelers(1-0) have a short week as they get ready to head to Baltimore with another division rival the Ravens.

The Browns get their home opener vs the Saints.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

ACROSS SOCIAL MEDIA

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

Birds look to defend nest as JAGUARS come to town....

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS(0-0) VS PHILADELPHIA EAGLES(0-0)

PREVIEW


PHILLY- Last year we saw Chip Kelly take the Eagles to a 10-6 record and a NFC East Division Championship. He did this while riding the arm of Nick Foles. The Eagles would lose in the Wildcard round however.

This year, Philadelphia has high hopes as Head Coach Chip Kelly has made Nick Foles his starter for the 2014 campaign. They look to get back to the playoffs but first has to deal with the Jags.

"New year, same goal." Eagles Head Coach Chip Kelly stated. He was all smiles.

The Eagles are ready for the season. Nick Foles fits perfectly in that system. He was all smiles as well.

"We had a magical year last year and fell short to New Orleans in the playoffs. I know the guys and myself are excited for this year." Nick Foles stated.

Also second year Head Coach Gus Bradley didn't have the kind of first year Chip Kelly did. His Jaguars finished the 2013 campaign with a 4-12 record.

"Last year we laid a foundation. It's a work in progress for us. We're excited to keep building." Jaguars Head Coach Gus Bradley stated.

And Henne will have a lot to work with on offense. Running backs Toby Gerheart, Storm Johnson, TJ Yeldon and Dee Hart.

Justin Blackmon, Rookie Tyrone Hughes, Rookie Kenny Bell. Cecil Shorts III, and Marcedes Lewis.

With Blake Bortles out with a broken collarbone suffered in Pre-season, The Jaguars have chosen Chad Henne to start todays game.

"I been working hard all week. I was here last year too so I'm up to date with Gus (Bradley) and his offense." Jaguars QB Chad Henne stated.

Defensive Coordinator Bob Babich will have plenty at his disposal hoping to knock the Eagles out early.

Red Bryant, Dante Fowler, Sen'Derrick Marks, Dekoda Watson,Paul Posluszny, Geno Hayes all up front.

The secondary will have Dwayne Gratz and Alan Ball. Josh Evans and Jonathan Cyprien at Safeties.

Nick Foles on the other hand will have Shady McCoy and Darren Sproles. Stud Rookie WR Jordan Benjamin, Riley Cooper, Arrelious Benn, and Jordan Matthews. Not to mention Zach Ertz.

Defensive Coordinator Bill Davis has a lot to work with in Philly this year. Edge rushers Cedric Thornton and Fletcher Cox. Bennie Logan at DT.

LB core of Connor Barwin, Demeco Ryans, Trent Cole, and Marcus Smith II.

The Secondary to defend the nest will be led by veterans Cary Williams and Bradley Fletcher with rookie Jaydin Cook and Brandon Boykin.

Malcolm Jenkins and Earl Wolff round out the Safeties.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

EAGLES Nick Foles has injury scare as Mark Sanchez leads epic 4th Quarter rally! EAGLES beat JAGUARS 34-26!

Jacksonville Jaguars at Philadelphia Eagles
Sep 7, 2014	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Jacksonville Jaguars (0-0)	6	14	6	0	26
Philadelphia Eagles (0-0)	7	10	0	17	34

Team Stats Comparison
	JAC	PHI
Total Offense	369	366
Rushing Yards	66	132
Passing Yards	303	234
First Downs	14	24
Punt Return Yards	15	16
Kick Return Yards	50	38
Total Yards	434	420
Turnovers	0	1
3rd Down Conversion	5	6
4th Down Conversion	0	0
2-Point Conversion
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals
Penalties
Posession Time	17:15	26:45

Jacksonville Jaguars PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Chad Henne(125.2) 28/34 318 2 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Toby Gerhart 22 54 2.5 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Marcedes Lewis 9 86 9.6 0 Justin Blackmon 7 71 10.1 0 Cecil Shorts III 5 126 25.2 1 Tyrone Hughes(R) 2 20 10 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Jonathan Cyprien 8 1 0 0 Paul Posluszny 8 0 0 0 Sherrod Martin 6 0 0 0 Dwayne Gratz 5 0 1 0

Philadelphia Eagles PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Nick Foles(96.9) 7/13 76 1 0 Mark Sanchez(74.8) 14/26 194 1 1 Matt Barkley(42.7) 1/4 15 0 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Shady McCoy 24 109 4.5 2 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Jordan Benjamin(R) 8 94 11.8 0 Zach Ertz 7 87 12.4 1De DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Demeco Ryans 11 0 0 0 Connor Barwin 10 1 0 0 Fletcher Cox 7 1 0 0

RECAP

PHILLY- Looking to start right where they left off last year, Philadelphia had a scare early in the game. After throwing his first touchdown of 2014, Nick Foles had an injury scare and left to the locker room early in the second quarter with what appeared to be a elbow injury in his throwing arm.

He did not return.

Backup QB Matt Barkley then took the field but didn't last long. After going 1/4 and a 15 yard pass to Jordan Benjamin Barkley partially tore his ACL and had to be carted to the Eagles locker room.

This then left Mark Sanchez to take the field in the second half and Sanchez led Philly on a 17 point 4th Quarter rally as the Eagles defeated the Jaguars 34-26 today.

"It was quite a performance by him." Eagles Head Coach Chip Kelly stated. "I'm glad we have him on our team right now."

Sanchez who was cut by the Jets this past off-season has found a home in Philly.

"I'm just here to help this team win games." Mark Sanchez stated.

"It sure was fun watching him work today, the crowd enjoyed it." Quarterback Nick Foles stated.

He is perfectly fine.

"Nick (Foles) is still our Quarterback next week when we play Indy." Head Coach Chip Kelly stated.

With the injury to Barkley now, Sanchez will be QB2.

"We can't blow leads like that, we need to close out games. This performance is unacceptable." Jaguars Head Coach Gus Bradley stated.

The Eagles will play next week on Monday Night Football as they travel to Indy.

The Jaguars head to our Nations Capital to battle Washington.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

JETS look to soar without Geno Smith...

OAKLAND RAIDERS(0-0) VS NEW YORK JETS(0-0)

PREVIEW

East Rutheford,NJ- The 2013 New York Jets was a circus among the league. High hopes for Geno Smith who boldly proclaimed the Jets would make the playoffs moments after being drafted.

The Jets went 8-8.

Mark Sanchez was hurt and then released opening the door for the Geno Smith era.

Now how the script has turned. Sanchez is in Philly while Smith is on the sidelines for a year with a torn achilles and will miss the 2014 season.

"That was a blow to our offense." Jets Head Coach Rex Ryan stated. "But we have high hopes for our Quarterbacks this year."

The Jets have signed Michael Vick. However don't get your hopes up Jets fans. Vick was brought in to mentor not play.

But things may change down the line.

For now, John David Booty has been named the Jets starter.

Yes that JDB.

He tried out in Jets camp attempting to make a NFL comeback after fading out after the 2009 season.

The 29 year old Quarterback is actually seeing some real action.

"It's been my dream since I came here in 2009. Things didn't work out in Minnesota for me but i'm happy to be given a chance." Jets Quarterback John David Booty stated.

To make Booty comfortable, he's been running first team offense through Pre-season and camp to prepare him for today as the Jets host the Raiders.

He will have Chris Johnson and Chris Ivory to hand the ball off to. When he throws the ball he'll aim for Eric Decker, Rookie Colton Cruise,David Nelson, Stephen Hill and Rookie TE's Mark Walker and Jace Amaro.

"I'm very happy with this Offense." Jets Offensive Coordinator Marty Mornhinweg stated.

The second year Jets Coordinator will look to revamp his Offense and avoid another 8-8 year.

Rex Ryan and his Defensive Coordinator Dennis Thurman will look to make the Defensive unit another top 10.

Edge rushers Muhammad Wilkerson, Sheldon Richardson, and Damon Harrison.

Linebacking core of Calvin Pace, David Harris, Demario Davis, and Quinton Coples will make life hard for the Raiders.

The secondary led by 2nd year man Dee Milliner and Kyle Wilson will have the help of rookie first round pick Calvin Pryor and Antonio Allen.

On the Raiders side however, life is miserable. Dennis Allen is still the Head Coach and the Raiders are coming off a 2013 Campaign in which they finished yet another 4-12 year.

Things look to be promising this year as they drafted Derek Carr however Allen has already announced Veteran Matt Schaub as his starter.

He'll have Maurice Jones-Drew and Darren McFadden to run the ball. Former Packer James Jones, Rookie Amari Cooper, Rod Streater, Denarius Moore and TE's David Ausberry and Mychal Rivera.


The Defense is still a work in progress however could make some noise this year if used properly. Lamarr Woodley and Justin Tuck up front with Antonio Smith. Rookie Khalil Mack, Kevin Burnett, and Sio Moore behind.

The secondary will be Tarell Brown and Carlos Rogers, veteran Captain Charles Woodson who is probably playing his last NFL Season and Tyvon Branch.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

MATT SCHAUB and the RAIDERS never get going. Fall to JETS 38-10!

Oakland Raiders at New York Jets
Sep 7, 2014	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Oakland Raiders (0-0)	0	0	7	3	10
New York Jets (0-0)	3	10	3	22	38

Team Stats Comparison
	OAK	NYJ
Total Offense	86	437
Rushing Yards	103	128
Passing Yards	-17	309
First Downs	7	19
Punt Return Yards	31	0
Kick Return Yards	134	17
Total Yards	251	454
Turnovers	1	1
3rd Down Conversion	1	8
4th Down Conversion	0	0
2-Point Conversion	0	0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	100%	100%
Penalties
Posession Time	13:48	30:12

Oakland Raiders PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Matt Schaub(20.6) 3/22 33 0 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Maurice Jones-Drew 15 95 6.3 1 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD 3 WR's with 1 catch. DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Kevin Burnett 9 0 1 0 Tyvon Branch 8 0 0 0 Khalil Mack(R) 6 0 0 0

New York Jets PASSING C/A YDS TD INT John David Booty(117.9) 22/33 338 3 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Chris Johnson 28 94 3.4 1 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Jeremy Kerley 5 114 22.8 1 David Nelson 4 74 18.5 1 Mark Walker(R) 4 66 16.5 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Demario Davis 6 1 0 0

RECAP


EAST RUTHEFORD, NJ- From the opening kickoff the Oakland Raiders were sitting ducks. The Raiders struggled out of the gate with an offense that never got going.

Matt Schaub's new team and his offense was a stalemate only converting on 3rd down just once all game.

Schaub struggled himself only throwing for 33 yards and completing just 3 passes.

"It's an embarrassment when you have games like that." Raiders QB Matt Schaub stated.

Being held to just 7 first downs all game, the Jets simply dominated the Raiders from start to finish.

Rookie QB John David Booty was flawless in his first official start. The 29 year old Quarterback has finally started his first game.

"It's been quite a journey. I'm just happy to be apart of a team that wants me." Booty stated.

The Raiders only managed 86 yards offensively all game.

Head Coach Dennis Allen was not happy in the Locker room afterwards.

"We're professionals here. A performance like that is just unacceptable." Allen stated.

The Raiders will need to rebound next week when they host Houston. The Jets will face the Packers.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

North Foes set for another chapter!

CINCINNATI BENGALS(0-0) VS BALTIMORE RAVENS(0-0)


PREVIEW

BALTIMORE- The Baltimore Ravens are just 2 years removed from their second Super Bowl Championship in franchise history. How did they defend it during their 2013 campaign?

By going 8-8 and missing the playoffs.

"Yeah that was tough for all of us. From Super Bowl Champions to missing the playoffs." Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh stated.

The Ravens will look to rebound in 2014 when they host their North rival, the Bengals who won the Division last year and was the only team to make playoffs from the AFC North.

The Ravens look to bounce back under the same man who won SB 47 MVP, Joe Flacco.

"I'm ready for a new year. We all have the same goal. We need to get back to the playoffs." Ravens Quarterback Joe Flacco stated.

"Every year they are always a threat for the title." Bengals Head Coach Marvin Lewis stated. "We have some good teams all battling it out in this division."

"We won the Division last year but it's a new year now so we need to set our eyes on doing that again. Baltimore is a tough team." Bengals Quarterback Andy Dalton stated.

SAME COACHES... NEW COORDINATORS...

Both Head Coaches remain in place but this past off-season saw some change.

Bengals Offensive Coordinator Jay Gruden is now the top man in Washington while Mike Zimmer is in Minnesota.

Ravens Defensive Coordinator Dean Pees is still in place while the man running the offense now is Gary Kubiak. Former O.C Jim Caldwell has taken the job in the Motor City.

For the Bengals however, new D.C Paul Guenther has revamped the defense while former Raiders Coach Hue Jackson has taken over as the new playcaller and O.C.

Andy Dalton will have Giovanni Bernard, AJ Green, Marvin Jones, Mohammad Sanu, Ryan Whalen, and Brandon Tate, and Tyler Eifert at his disposal.

The defense will be led by Geno Atkins. Linebackers of Bruce Smith(R), Rey Maualuga, Vincent Rey, and Vontaze Burfict.

The secondary is full of veterans.

Corners Leon Hall, Terrance Newman, Adam Jones, and Safeties Reggie Nelson, Shawn Williams, George Iloka and Danieal Manning.

The Ravens led by Joe Flacco has Ray Rice, Bernard Pierce, Kyle Juszczyk, Steve Smith, Torrey Smith, Jacoby Jones, Rookie Javon Griffin, Dennis Pitta and Owen Daniels.

Leading the defense will be veteran Terrell Suggs and his LB core of Daryl Smith, Rookie CJ Mosley, Courtney Upshaw and Elvis Dumervil.

Veteran Defensive Tackle Haloti Ngata will anchor the line.

The Ravens secondary is young. Lardarius Webb, Jimmy Smith, newcomers rookies Jeremy Cole and David Roberts. Safeties Matt Elam and Omar Brown.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

RAVENS mauled by BENGALS 38-26 as Flacco, Rice go down with injuries....

Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens
Sep 7, 2014	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Cincinnati Bengals (0-0)	0	21	7	10	38
Baltimore Ravens (0-0)	0	13	3	10	26

Team Stats Comparison
	CIN	BAL
Total Offense	486	413
Rushing Yards	196	49
Passing Yards	290	364
First Downs	21	22
Punt Return Yards	9	0
Kick Return Yards	71	41
Total Yards	566	454
Turnovers	1	1
3rd Down Conversion	7	13
4th Down Conversion	0	0
2-Point Conversion	0	0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	3	5
Penalties
Posession Time	19:31	24:29

Cincinnati Bengals PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Andy Dalton(107.2) 21/34 298 3 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Giovani Bernard 21 173 8.2 2 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Tyler Eifert 6 91 15.2 1 AJ Green 5 77 15.4 0 Marvin Jones 4 44 11 1 Mohamed Sanu 3 33 11 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Reggie Nelson 9 0 0 0 Vontaze Burfict 8 0 1 0 Rey Maualuga 8 0 0 0 Adam Jones 6 0 0 0 George Iloka 5 0 0 0 Carlos Dunlap 5 3 0 0 Geno Atkins 5 2 0 0 Terrance Newman 4 0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Mike Nugent 1/1 5/5 3 53 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Kevin Huber 1 34 34 0

Baltimore Ravens PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Tyrod Taylor(105.4) 38/48 387 2 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Ray Rice 16 37 2.3 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Steve Smith 9 106 11.8 0 Dennis Pitta 7 82 11.7 0 BLOCKING PANCAKE SACK Rick Wagner 1 3 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Terrell Suggs 8 0 0 0 Daryl Smith 5 0 0 0 Matt Elam 5 0 1 0 Terrence Brooks(R) 5 0 0 0 Jeremy Cole(R) 5 0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Justin Tucker 4/4 2/2 12 47

RECAP


BALTIMORE- The Cincinatti Bengals started 2014 right where they left off in 2013.

Showing their dominance in the AFC North.

The Bengals simply dominated the Ravens today in Baltimore. The Ravens were simply struggling from the opening kickoff.

On Baltimore's first snap of the game Quarterback Joe Flacco was hit taking a sack and hit the field hard. He did not get up.

"I felt something popped in my back." Ravens QB Joe Flacco stated.

The Ravens QB was helped off the field and taken to the locker room and did not return. At least in pads.

Flacco was seen walking out of the tunnel in a shirt and warmups on. It's been revealed now that Joe Flacco has suffered a herniated disk and is expected to miss the next 8 games.

Tough news for Baltimore.

"It sucks when your leader goes down like that." Ravens CB Matt Elam stated.

With Flacco on the shelf, Baltimore turned to backup Tyrod Taylor who held his own today.

"We lost Joe (Flacco) and hats off to Tyrod for stepping in and doing what he did." Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh stated.

The Ravens were outmatched today as they struggled to get the run game going. Ray Rice was held in check only picking up 37 yards on 16 carries.

The Bengals defense just smothered the run and had pressure on Taylor all game long. They dropped him 4 times. But Tyrod Taylor held his own racking up 387 yards and a pair of TD's.

Runningback Ray Rice was also hurt and headed for the locker room in the 4th in what's been diagnosed as a Knee cartilage tear and will miss the next month.

Two major injuries to the Ravens offense to start the season is a blow. John Harbaugh should get a pass now if the Ravens slump during the first half of the year.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

ACROSS SOCIAL MEDIA

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

Same faces new places...


CHICAGO BEARS(0-0) VS BUFFALO BILLS(0-0)


PREVIEW


BUFFALO- It's been a long four years since the Buffalo Bills and Chicago Bears played. But this year it's going to be familiar territory for both sides when the Bills kick off their home opener vs Da Bears.

Former Detroit Lions Head Coach Jim Schwartz is now the Defensive Coordinator in Buffalo replacing Mike Pettine.

No one else knows the NFC North than him in Buffalo.

"It's going to be really interesting. He coached in Detroit for years so he's seen all of us and knows how to gameplan for us." Bears Head Coach Marc Trestman stated.

"It's a challenge. He's familiar with us all. He will be a tough guy to beat with that defense." Bears Quarterback Jay Cutler stated.

"I coached in Detroit and saw the whole division for years. I'm quite familiar with everything Chicago, Minnesota, and Green Bay has. I'm up to the challenge." Bills D.C Jim Schwartz stated.

It's going to be an emotional year for the Bills as legendary owner Ralph Wilson passed away at age 95 in March.

"Last year we laid a foundation. It's a process here and the guys in this locker room are excited to keep building." Bills Head Coach Doug Marrone stated.

His Bills were 6-10 and missed the playoffs last year as the longest playoff drought in sports continues.

"That's all history man. Each year it's a new year. Our focus is one day at a time and one game at a time." Bills Defensive End Mario Williams stated.

The Bears are looking to rebound after missing out on the playoffs last year thanks to an Aaron Rodgers Game Winning Drive.

But it's a new year and Bears Quarterback Jay Cutler is all smiles in the Windy City.

"I'm excited for this year. I think the things that Marc (Trestman) has done, the process he installed, the system he implemented. It's all coming together for us." Cutler said.

Today he will have some familiar faces like Running back Matt Forte, Wideouts Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery, Rookie Ernest Harris, Rookie Aaron White. Monster at TE Martellus Bennett.

The Defense should help standout too this year. Defensive Ends Lamarr Houston, Jared Allen, Rookie Roger Coleman at tackle.

Linebackers of Jack Barnes(R), D.J Williams, Jon Bostic,Lance Briggs, Jordan Senn.

The Secondary will be led by Charles Tillman and Tim Jennings. Rookie Corners of Kyle Fuller and Kenny Gregory will look to make an impact. Chris Conte and Ryan Mundy in at Safety.

The Buffalo Bills had a huge Quarterback competition over Pre-Season but has named EJ Manuel the starter for Week 1.

The second year pro has a chip on his shoulder entering the game.

He still has CJ Spiller and Fred Jackson in the backfield with a variety of weapons in Danny Williams(R), Sammy Watkins(R), Robert Woods, TJ Graham, Chris Hogan. Scott Chandler.

Jim Schwartz's new Defensive lineup consists of DE's Alan Branch, Jarius Wynn, Mario Williams, John Howard(R), DT Kyle Williams.

The Linebackers Robert Dawson(R), Manny Lawson, Brandon Spikes, Keith Rivers, Kiko Alonso.

A Secondary led by Stephon Gilmore, Corey Graham, Kenny Parker(R) Da'Norris Searcy and Aaron Williams.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

BILLS blow 14 point lead as BEARS win 30-27 in OT.

Buffalo Bills at Chicago Bears
Sep 7, 2014	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	OT	SCORE
Buffalo Bills (0-0)	14	3	0	10	0	27
Chicago Bears (0-0)	0	17	10	0	3	30

Team Stats Comparison
	BUF	CHI
Total Offense	415	478
Rushing Yards	100	84
Passing Yards	347	394
First Downs	18	14
Punt Return Yards	7	32
Kick Return Yards	134	18
Total Yards	506	528
Turnovers	2	2
3rd Down Conversion	6	8
4th Down Conversion	1	0
2-Point Conversion	0	0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	80%	100%
Penalties
Posession Time	21:49	26:58

Buffalo Bills PASSING C/A YDS TD INT EJ Manuel(85.5) 18/38 241 2 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD CJ Spiller 14 73 5.2 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Robert Woods 5 75 15 0 Danny Williams(R) 5 53 10.6 1 Sammy Watkins(R) 4 74 18.5 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Brandon Spikes 10 0 0 0 Kiko Alonso 9 0 0 0 Aaron Williams 7 1 0 0 Stephon Gilmore 5 0 0 0 Jerry Hughes 4 2 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Dustin Hopkins 2/3 3/3 6 47 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Brian Moorman 5 306 61.2 2

Chicago Bears PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Jay Cutler(140.9) 26/30 421 2 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Bobby Lewis(R) 12 37 3.1 1 Matt Forte 7 16 2.3 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Ernest Harris(R) 9 155 17.2 1 Brandon Marshall 4 128 32 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD D.J Williams 9 0 0 0 Shawn Butler(R) 4 0 0 0 Chris Conte 4 0 0 0 Jared Allen 4 1 0 0 Roger Coleman(R) 3 1 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Robbie Gould 3/4 3/3 9 38 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Pat O'Donnell(R) 4 201 50.3 1

RECAP


CHICAGO- The Chicago Bears hosted the Bills today in their opener and things looked like it was going to be all Buffalo in the first quarter. The Bills jumped out to a 14 point lead but then like a change in the tide... Buffalo stalled and the wheels completely fell off.

"No idea how it happened. We we're cruising there in the first but then we just stopped." Bills Quarterback EJ Manuel stated.

He was 18/38 and a pair of TD's. After the first quarter however, Manuel was very pedestrian today struggling to get the offense going after that. He did throw the game tying TD to WR T.J Graham in the closing seconds of the game but it was nothing more than just a prayer.

"We need to get in a rhythm and stay in it. Up 14-0 in the first then blow it like that is unacceptable." Bills Head Coach Doug Marrone stated.

The Bills simply struggled on offense and left their defense on the field way to long. Bills defense was pretty solid today showing blitzes and pressure on Jay Cutler but after being relied on too much simply crumbled as the game went on.

"That's on us. We can't put pressure on our defense like that." Bills WR Sammy Watkins stated.

Bills back CJ Spiller also struggled a bit against the Bears defense.

"Some games go like that. Just gotta shake it off and get ready for the next one." Spiller stated.

Chicago had an epic comeback but lost one of it's own in the process. Bears Running Back Matt Forte left in the 4th with what appears to be a broken Collarbone.

"Sucks seeing guys get hurt. We all love Matt in this locker room." Bears QB Jay Cutler stated.

"Very proud of our guys today to go out and be down two TD's then battle back and win it in overtime is something special." Bears Head Coach Marc Trestman said.

Rookie WR Ernest Harris had himself a coming out party racking up 155 yards and his first career TD on just 9 catches.

When the Bills had blown coverage, Jay Cutler took advantaged dropping bombs to Harris and Marshall for big gains.

"We had a bad habit of doing that today." Bills DC Jim Schwartz said. "We need to tighten up on defense and not give up so many big plays."

The Bills will have their home opener next week against the Miami Dolphins.

The Bears will look to play spoiler as they head to brand new Levi's Stadium and play the 49ers next week on Sunday Night Football.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

RG3 Out. Cousins In. REDSKINS and TEXANS kick off NEW ERA'S!


PREVIEW


HOUSTON- Both the Redskins and the Texans will be kicking off new era's when the two meet in Houston on Sunday. New Head Coach Jay Gruden has taken over in Washington and has promoted Sean McVay to be his Offensive Coordinator. Jim Haslett is still in place as D.C.

The Redskins are coming off a 3-13 season last year which resulted in legendary Head Coach Mike Shanahan being shown the door. He is taken the year off.

However, the firing left his son Kyle with a bad taste in his mouth as he walked out the door as well taking up the job in Cleveland.

Now with Jay Gruden in town, the Redskins are ready to build a foundation with a new Offensive Coordinator. Also a new Quarterback as Kirk Cousins has been named the starter for Week 1 while RG3 takes a few weeks off healing a elbow injury in preseason.

"We're going with Kirk (Cousins) for now. We have confidence he can lead this team for the first few weeks." Redskins Head Coach Jay Gruden stated.

To prepare for Houston, Sean McVay has been going over plays with Kirk Cousins throughout practice.

"I want to make sure come kickoff we're on the same page. The old playbook was built around the speed of RG3 and now we have a Quarterback who is more of a pocket passer." Offensive Coordinator Sean McVay stated.

Over in Houston now, The Texans are kicking off a new era themselves. New Head Coach Bill O'Brien is taking over a team that finished 2013 with a pitiful 2-14 record and had Gary Kubiak pack his bags for Baltimore.

Now gone with him is Wade Phillips. A genius Defensive Coordinator who can find a job anywhere on the market.

The new man running the defense? Former Chiefs Head Coach Romeo Crennel.

Houston Offensive Coordinator is Tim Kelly.

"It's a new era for both of us and everybody is excited. So now it's time to go out and execute." Redskins QB Kirk Cousins stated.

Cousins will have Alfred Morris in the backfield with Roy Helu, Jr. Pierre Garcon, Desean Jackson, Leonard Hankerson Andre Roberts, and TE Jordan Reed.

On defense the Redskins look like Jarvis Jenkins, Jason Hatcher, Barry Cofield, Ryan Kerrigan, Akeem Jordan, Brian Orakpo and Brandon Jenkins as the front seven.

Veteran Deangelo Hall will lead the secondary with Evan Adams(R), Tracy Porter, David Amerson and Safeties Ryan Clark and Brandon Merriweather.

The Houston Texans will rely on veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick hoping he can spark some magic from that 2012 season in Buffalo.

On Offense he will have Arian Foster. Andre Johnson, Marvin Terry(R), Deandre Hopkins, Evan Hancock(R) and TE Ryan Griffin.

The Defense is led by JJ Watt and newly drafted Jadeveon Clowney(R)
and will have Brian Cushing, Brad Newman(R), Louis Nix(R)

Veteran Jonathan Joseph will lead the secondary with Kareem Jackson, Brandon Harris, Chris Clemons, and DJ Swearinger.

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

A Dose of Fitzmagic! Fitzpatrick leads Texans over Redskins on Game Winning Drive!

Washington Redskins at Houston Texans
Sep 7, 2014	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Washington Redskins (0-0)	7	3	7	3	20
Houston Texans (0-0)	0	3	10	10	23

Team Stats Comparison
	WAS	HOU
Total Offense	367	460
Rushing Yards	136	157
Passing Yards	231	303
First Downs	17	20
Punt Return Yards	45	9
Kick Return Yards	41	46
Total Yards	453	515
Turnovers	2	2
3rd Down Conversion	5	8
4th Down Conversion	0	1
2-Point Conversion	0	0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	100%	100%
Penalties
Posession Time	20:09	23:51

Washington Redskins PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Kirk Cousins(58.0) 26/47 231 1 2 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Alfred Morris 21 113 5.4 1 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Jordan Reed 6 48 8 0 Leonard Hankerson 6 76 12.7 1 Pierre Garcon 6 66 11 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Darryl Sharpton 15 0 0 0 Akeem Jordan 11 0 0 0 Ryan Kerrigan 8 2 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Kai Forbath 2/2 2/2 6 48 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Robert Malone 13 465 35.8 3

Houston Texans PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Ryan Fitzpatrick(69.6) 33/52 303 1 2 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Arian Foster 21 108 5.1 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Deandre Hopkins 8 45 5.6 0 Ryan Griffin 6 35 5.8 0 Andre Johnson 6 118 19.7 1

RECAP


HOUSTON- Fitzmagic is alive and well as Ryan Fitzpatrick has gotten his new club, the Texans off to a 1-0 start. The journeyman QB gave Houston some much needed momentum and hype heading into their Week 2 matchup with the Oakland Raiders. Kirk Cousins got the Redskins off to a great start taking a 10-3 lead into the half.

"It was a solid half of football for us I thought." Redskins Coach Jay Gruden stated.

The Redskins wouldn't stop there taking a 20-13 lead into the fourth. The Texans cut the lead down however thanks to a Field Goal.

The real story however is the legend of "Fitz-Magic".

Ryan Fitzpatrick led Houston down to the promise land on a epic 80 yard Game Winning Drive feeding off the energy from the home crowd in Houston.

"It was surreal. The fans energy fed us all game." Texans Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick stated.

The game winning pass was a thing of beauty to Andre Johnson in the endzone that sent the Texans fans into a frenzy despite it only being week 1.

"Every game is important for us to win. We did what we needed to do to get the win today. I'm a firm believer of the legend of "Fitzmagic" now." Joked Texans Head Coach Bill O'Brien.

The Texans can rally behind Ryan Fitzpatrick as 2014 rolls on and they get ready for next week when they head to Oakland to battle the Raiders.

The Redskins(0-1) are left licking their wounds now as they board the plane back home to battle the Jaguars(0-1).

Defensive Coordinator Jim Haslett will have to figure out a way to get his defense to get a stop in crunch time to avoid another 80 yard Game Winning drive.

"Unacceptable." Redskins Defensive Coordinator Jim Haslett stated. "We can't break like that again."

Washingtons Offense struggled quite a bit. They were forced to punt the ball 13 times.

"That's on me." Redskins Quarterback Kirk Cousins stated. "We need to be better on offense and move the ball. That starts with me."

[johnstone1987]

Re: ~~Lords of the Gridiron~~

CHIEFS look for redemption as TITANS come to town....


KANSAS CITY CHIEFS(0-0) VS TENNESSEE TITANS(0-0)


PREVIEW


KANSAS CITY- The last time the Kansas City Chiefs were on the field they had an epic collapse. Blowing a 28 point second half lead to Andrew Luck and the Indianapolis Colts last January. Now it's a new season and this Chiefs team is looking forward to the new year.

"Yeah it was rough. I mean having a meltdown like that is a tough pill to swallow." Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid stated.

"Everybody keeps bringing it up but it's a new season now." Quarterback Alex Smith stated.

The Chiefs aren't exactly looking for it, but some players among the locker room are living by it.

"It's redemption for us absolutely." Chiefs Safety Eric Berry stated. He's not dressed as he is taken a few weeks off to nurse a shoulder injury.

Offensive Coordinator Doug Pederson is looking towards the new season.

"What happened last January is in the past. It's a new year for all of us and now it's time to get back to work and push for that ultimate goal." Pederson stated.

A new year indeed. Franchise Quarterback Alex Smith and his offense consists of Jamaal Charles, Dwayne Bowe, Dexter Kent(R), Donnie Avery, Kyle Williams, AJ Jenkins and TE Anthony Fasano and Travis Kelce.


On the defensive side of the ball, Edge rushers Allen Bailey, Henry Briggs(R), Dontari Poe, will be aided by Justin Houston, Derrick Johnson and Tamba Hali.

The secondary with the departure of Brandon Flowers (FA Market) will be manned by Sean Smith, Marcus Cooper, Brian Pope(R) Chris Owens, and Safeties Husain Abdullah, Malcom Bronson.

Titans Quarterback Jake Locker will have some help of his own in Kansas City. Shonn Green, Nathan Jeffery and Leon Washington in the backfield.

A WR Core of Andre Riley(R), Kendall Wright, Derreck Taylor(R), Nate Washington, and Justin Hunter. TE's Craig Stevens in for the injured Delanie Walker.

The defense for Tennessee will have a front seven of Derrick Morgan, Mike Martin, Jurrell Casey, Akeem Ayers, Colin McCarthy, Wesley Woodyard, and Shaun Phillips.

In the secondary, Jason Mccourty, Cole Travis(R), Blidi Wreh-Wilson, Coty Sensabaugh, and Safeties Michael Griffin and Bernard Pollard.