Discussing the NFL bye week and why it should change...

One of the annual annoyances that I have with the NFL is the bye week. Now it's not the problem I have with the bye week themselves but when they start is the problem and to think it actually used to be worse. Before the expansion Texans came into the league I can remember that some teams got there bye weeks the 1st week or 2 of the season. Nowadays since there is an even number of teams the bye week starts in week 4 with 5 weeks 4 teams getting off and 2 weeks of 6, though it will be different this year with Houston and Baltimore's schedule being readjusted due to there cancelled games.

But back to the point at hand, what good can it do a team to have a bye week in the 1st 6 weeks in the season? The only reason I can understand is injuries, which should help the Seahawks receiving core and trying to get experience to your new starters like the Patriots and there new quarterback, but aside from that who wants a week off now as to when you and your team could really use it in the middle of the season. My proposal is to have the bye weeks be from weeks 8-11, 8 teams get a bye week for 4 straight weeks, that way you can have 13 weeks of every team playing (which should make you more money) as opposed to having just 11 weeks of every team playing. Not to mention no team gets a real competitive edge for there bye week because everyone is getting off around the same time and have time to heal and rest up for the 2nd half of the season as opposed to now where teams like the Colts, Pats and Seahawks are getting a bye week not even a quarter of the way through the season.

I mean if you really wanted to get crazy you could give everyone a week off and try and legitimize your all star game and have that in the middle of the season to try and make someone give a damn about the game. Just trying to give the NFL some criticism for a league that receives all to little of it.

Onto week 3:

The Cowboys proved that as of right now they are the best team in the league, and they did this with there quarterback playing less then stellar and a defense that has yet to come up with an interception. Of course you'll hear every expert from now until January say that we'll see how this team does in December and January which is true but it gets a little annoying hearing the same repetitve B.S. week in and week out, but hey who doesn't love cliches? The real thing that bothered me this thing is for the 3rd time in 3 games Romo once again tried to channel his inner-Favre and make something out of nothing, 3 weeks in a row he's got a interception in the red zone and almost fumbled away another chance in the red zone that Flozell Adams was able to recover. I understand that he is trying to stay in the pocket more and more this year and his line is doing stellar most of the time (though they left alot to be desired against Green Bay) but they should try and get him on the run more or out of the pocket, also I think at times he should tuck it and run rather then throw it away or try and force something downfield.

Despite the o-lines lackluster play in pass protection the running game was the exact opposite, Felix Jones and Marion Barber both had big gains and both got into the endzone, Felix has a burst that few others in this league have and he's almost unstoppable when he's got room to run. Also Jason Witten proved why he's the best tight end in the league, and John Madden has a new mancrush. Of course he has plenty of people to choose from on this Cowboys team, you have Brett Favre's bastard child at QB, a real bruiser for a running back and the most complete tight end in the league that does everything right and never raises his voice in anger, a real "pro's pro"

Defensively they held up very well against the run and the coverage downfield was impressive, I hope this team continues to play more man coverage, I hope I never have to see Anthony Henry on Greg Jennings again though. I also think the pass rush was good, they took down Aaron Rodgers plenty and he looked visibly flustered. This game was not as close as the score indicated.

Onto other games

Alot of exciting games this past weekend, 4 games decided by less then a field goal and won or lost by a crucial play, and another game decided by a touchdown. Also a crappy week for me when it came to picking/trusting the big time favorites. Most of the double digit favorites failed to cover (NY Giants, NE Patriots or Buffalo Bills)

Chicago for the 2nd straight week choked a lead when they should easily be 3-0, with Matt Forte showing he's legit and the Bears defense appearing to be back in Superbowl form this is the type of loss that can be completely demoralizing and possibly wreck a season.

Buffalo may have gotten a little to big for there head but was able to salvage the day when Trent Edwards led his team down the field for 2 4th quarter TD's. I didn't get this game on TV but from what I've heard poor management by the entire Oakland personnel was a big reason in the Raiders collapse, not good for Lane Kiffin who has been on pins and needles since before the season. Though I have heard he wants to go back to the college game anyways.

I think we all knew that Cincinatti was bad but due to there performance against the Giants they proved they are no longer in the worst team in the league discussion, which I think is now down to Kansas City, St. Louis and Detroit, what a terrible time to be a fan of Missourri sports (though Chase Daniel and the Tigers could probably hang 40 on either of the NFL teams) Terrible clock management by Cincinatti on there game tying drive though, it gave them no shot at having a crack at the endzone and they had to settle to go for a field goal. If I was Marvin Lewis I may have taken a shot, you're on the road your team is playing way over it's head it would have been a boom/bust decision, but this team's been a complete bust anyways. But alas a very average day by Eli Manning is brushed over because he makes a couple throws in overtime (really a great catch by Amani Toomer, a great pass by Manning would have led Toomer as he waltzes in the endzone. But why let criticism get in the way of the "Golden Boy" )

In the Pittsburgh/Philadelphia battle for state supremacy I can't recall the last time a quarterback took the beating that Ben Rothlesberger did in a game, I don't know how he lasted almost the entire game, it's almost if his entire offensive line bet against them. The only game I can recall that comes close was last year when Donovan McNabb was sacked 12 times, but I think a big part in that was Winston Justice gave up 6 sacks himself and McNabb at times was unwilling to get rid of the ball, the Giants weren't blitzing all that much. Big Ben may not have been sacked as much as McNabb but Philly was relentless in there attack and the hits kept on coming, and he was already playing that game hurt.

Josh Scobee is a bad mutha, 2nd time he's made a game winning kick in Indianapolis. How long will we give Peyton Manning until we start to wonder how healthy he really is? He's been money when the team has needed him to be but aside from a couple of late drives he just hasn't been the Manning of old. I also think I underrated the loss of Bob Sanders last week figured with big injuries to the Jaguars offensive line they'd be able to stop MoJo Drew and Fred Taylor's tandem running attack.

How long will Denver be able to barely skate by with these wins? That defense is bad, but the offense has just overmatched everything the other teams defense has thrown at them. And there running game hasn't even been that great (sans Selvin Young, seriously Mike, start him and give him 15-25 carries a game for the benefit of your team and my fantasy team!)

And I hope last week means we can finally cool the Jets playoff talk, even with the New England Brady's getting there butts handed to them this week by the "hog formation" and the Dolphins (side note: thank you to my fantasy opponent for keeping Ronnie Brown on the bench last week) But we all knew that the Chargers were coming out and coming out hard last week and the Jets couldn't slow them down and made that game look a lot closer then the 19 point loss indicated.

Before I get to the picks, here's some thought's on the Redskins/Cowboys game this week:

I hate the 'Skins, everything about them is annoying from those cross dressing fans, to Joe Gibbs to that Jerry Jones wannabe midget Daniel Snyder to there racist name (how has Redskin stood pat in the age of Political Correctness? Guess it got a grandfather clause, Don Imus must have missed the deadline for applicants) But it seems like the 'Slurs take it all to another level almost as if they enjoy having ultimate bragging rights on being Dallas's #1 rivalry. And I don't care if neither team is great they are still our biggest rivalry sorry Philly and G-men, I realize we are severely hated there but not to the extent of D.C. There was a website the other day that had a picture of a guy's minivan with the license plate F Romo. Not even sure what I would get my vanity plate to say, they have no big name players aside from I guess Portis and license plates never have messages on them so I couldn't say anything tasteless about Sean Taylor's death so I'm stumped.

It should be a hard fought game, the Cowboys are going to have to "get it up" for the 3rd straight week because it essentially is a nationally televised game (95% of the country is seeing it) Thankfully after this game the Cowboys get a couple easier games because this type of atmosphere and intensity just has to wear out a team. But I think we should be able to get to QB Jason Campbell easier then the last 2 weeks since he is mainly a pocket QB (though you may not think that with him being a black QB, presumptive racist HA!) The key is to not let Clinton Portis get loose and Santanna Moss beat you deep which shouldn't be a problem as long as Terrence Newman or Adam Jones is matched up on him. Offensively I would love for the team to get Terrell Owens involved early since his production has been somewhat slow to start the season, I realize teams have been keying on him but I still want to keep him happy, I think he may have an easier time this year because Washington is tougher against the run then the pass.

Onto the picks, last week I was 8-8 and 4-0 vs. the over/under
So I'm 14-16-1 vs. the spread
6-0 vs. the over/under

Buffalo (-8) @ St. Louis
This could get ugly, the Rams replacing an immobile quarterback with a guy who last time was on a football field was knocked with a vicious knee to the helmet, does Trent Green owe people money? I fear for his safety, Bills

Atlanta @ Carolina (-7)
I'd like to see Atlanta prove they can play decently away from home, could see this game being within a touchdown but I'll take the Panthers, especially if Jake Delhomme can get time to throw.

Cleveland @ Cincinatti (-3.5)
I don't know what to think of this game, neither teams have been worth a damn this year, last year there first matchup was a old fashioned shootout where guys came outta the stands and were catching TD's, then the next game was a defensive standstill. Cincinatti because they're at home, this game's to hard to call though, you don't know what to expect from either team.

Washington @ Dallas (-11)
That's a mighty big line for Dallas even at home especially for a rivalry game. But because my chest is puffed out and I'm feeling real confident about my team I'll take them, over/under is 46 take the over.

Denver (-9.5) @ Kansas City
A home team normally gets 3 points for being the home team, that should show you how much the Chiefs suck. I'll take Denver and the over which is set at 47, though for some reason I can picture this game being low scoring.

Houston @ Jacksonville (-7)
Though the Texans normally play the Jaguars well this seems like the easiest game of the week to pick. Jaguars got some flash and flare back with that money drive last week by the Jags so take them, almost tempted to bet the under on that 42.5 too but will refrain.

San Francisco @ New Orleans (-5)
It's a nice story that San Fran is 2-1 but come on how is the spread only 5? The Saints are a real team in a halfway decent division, they don't have Marques Colston or Jeremy Shockey this week but they still have Brees and Bush and if Sean Payton lets him play more Robert Meachem can get some yards to (come on Sean, my WR core is in trouble) I feel like I'm picking the over/under to much but this has to offensive teams and it's only 48, how do you avoid that, especially since I have a perfect record (so far) might as well let it ride.

Arizona @ NY J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS (-1.5)
Make or break game for the Jets and should be a shootout if Mangini grows a pair and throws it early in the game instead of going with a conservative gameplan. It's a new-era of football people it's better to establish the pass and then run with the lead, not the other way around. Give me the Cardinals, probably be wrong in the end but they put up a good fight last week vs. a Washington team that is better. Staying 2 weeks away from home could hurt them though. This win could be huge for the Jets though, they have an absurdly easy schedule after next week's bye. And another game where I take the over on the over/under which is set at 45.

Philadelphia (-3) @ Chicago
Chicago's steaming after blowing there last 2 games and they get a hobbled Philadelphia team, could be just what they needed, will be a "tough hard nosed grind it out game where you show up with your lunch pail" Give me DA BEARS. The over/under is set at 40, just to be somewhat ballsy I'll take the under in this game.

San Diego (-7.5) @ Oakland
Oakland is improved but I'm still not convinced they can compete with the upper echelon of this division, I'll take San Diego. I'd also like for Jamarcus Russell's completion % improve, I understand having 0 competent WR's but still.

Green Bay @ Tampa Bay (-1)
I just don't like Gruden's Bucs a different type of team can show up any week and if they make the playoffs they are in all likelihood a one and done team, I like the Packers they got beat somewhat handily by the Cowboys last week but are still better then a team like the Bucs in my opinion.

Minnesota @ Tennessee (-3)
Another knock down drag it out contest that should feature an over/under of 14 punts between the 2 teams. This will be a joy to watch arguably the best defense in the league go against the beast known as Adrian Peterson, I'll guess he gets 80 yards and a touchdown but the Titans prevail, I would hate to be a quarterback in this game though, they are both mediocre and going against 2 of the best defensive fronts in the league.

Monday Night
Baltimore @ Pittsburgh (-5.5)
Another tough game, Ben has played well vs. the Ravens in the past but he's unhealthy, is without Willie Parker and just got absolutely murdered last Sunday, maybe Baltimore will take it easy on him but that defense looks as good as they have in a long time. I'll take Baltimore.

Until next week, where I'll probably be writing for myself. And I'll try to get my rangers season in review up too.

Looking ahead to week 3...And back to week 2

What a crazy week this past Sunday and Monday in the NFL, teams still trying to find or establish there identity and what we think will come in the following weeks. The top of the NFC looks like for the first time in years it can hang with the cream of the crop in the AFC, a Brady-less Patriots team helps that a littlebut many people right now are claiming that Green Bay, Philly, Dallas and the Giants are all legit contenders for a ring. That doesn't even include the list of New Orleans, the hated Redskins and if they can ever get a healthy receiving core, the Seattle Seahawks. Not to mention that 3 of the league's 5 worst teams look to be in the AFC, the Chiefs, Bengals and Dolphins with the Rams and Lions representing the NFC. Right now the only 2 teams that have really established themselves as legit teams so far in the AFC is Pittsburgh, Buffalo and Denver (there offense anyways). And if not for last weeks referee screwup you could put the Chargers up here.

Which leads me to talk about the leagues biggest story from this past weekend, Ed "Hercules" Hochuli. A lawyer who referees NFL games as a part time job. The man is a saint and was born on Christmas, had he not picked such a sleazy job I'd say he might be the second coming. Now I'll admit I was furious with the mistake he made in the San Diego vs. Denver game last week, not because I'm a Chargers fan but because I hate to see any team win like that, you just don't like to see it happen and the Chargers got screwed. I was so distraught I thought about turning in my Ed Hochuli fan club card but for fear for myself and my family I thought otherwise. What I found was that the "Hawk" was clearly hurt and angry at himself for that, and why wouldn't he be, up until that play everyone thought he was perfect, now people are talking like he's a normal schmo. Well guess what people you are not, Ed is the type of guy that makes Chuck Norris shaking in his boots, with a holding call so devastating it's caused many a strong men to bow at his feet.

Just look at what happened when someone disagreed with him

Open up another page to see some more facts about one Ed Hochuli: http://timthefoolman.com/2005/12/25/ed-hochuli-the-facts/

I mean you always hear about a ref feeling bad for screwing up but this really did not sit well with Ed, maybe because he's the most well known NFL ref with his tight muscle shirts and massive guns and that's why he is getting so much publicity. But here's a quote from Hochuli actually taking blame for his actions (something I'm sure the NFL isn't happy about because most of the heads at these organizations are always wanting to keep the refs out of the limelight.) "I'm getting hundreds of e-mails -- hate mail -- but I'm responding to it all. People deserve a response. You can rest assured that nothing anyone can say can make me feel worse than I already feel about my mistake on the fumble play. You have no idea … Affecting the outcome of a game is a devastating feeling. Officials strive for perfection -- I failed miserably. Although it does no good to say it, I am very, very sorry."

Seriously what other referee (or player for that matter) would have the cajones to do this to Bill Belichick and the Patriots



I'm still mad at the outcome of the game, but Ed's a better man than all of us for owning up to his actions for what he knows was a big mistake and I respect him even more now, even if my team's owner Jerry Jones feels the complete opposite of me.

And now onto the Cowboys/Philadelphia game, wow that was one of the most intense and electrifying games I've seen in quite some time. The second quarter was just insane, the Cowboys go from celebrating a huge kickoff return from Felix Jones (and how big was he last week? he had 247 return yards, he was unbelievable constantly giving us big field position) then forcing a punt and us Cowboy fans were on top of the world...and it all came crashing down as Romo then escapes the blitz and throws a bad pass for an INT, followed by just a despicable pass interference call (by the way, these refs were bad for both teams) to set up a Brian Westbrook TD reception (which the Eagles got away with 2 holds on) Then the Isiah Stanback mishandles the kickoff and Tony Romo screws up not only on the handoff in the endzone but he tries to pull a Favre by picking up the ball to throw it out of the endzone. The end result was another Philly touchdown. But in the 1st half neither team could stop each other on offense. The Cowboys pass rush was mediocre at best, it could have been fine but when McNabb got pressured we could not wrap him up, DeMarcus Ware could have had 2 or 3 sacks but McNabb looked like his vintage self.

But the game was so high paced and fast I think that's part of why both defenses sucked, the Cowboys run defense was stellar and we actually did a fine job containing Brian Westbrook, finishing with just 103 total yards. But because the game was so hectic in the 1st half you had to know the game would slow down in the 1st half or else someone might have died. From the moment the 'Boys started there collapse I had thought for a while they were going to lose, sure they gave up just 7 points in the 2nd half but if not for Donovan's screw up in the 4th quarter when exchanging the hand off they probably would have held onto win the game. But then again I thought the Cowboys did a decent job on defense, more then anyone is giving them credit for. The pass rush was good in the 2nd half McNabb is just so big and elusive but we were getting to him. But the biggest problem of our team (and it's been a recurring theme the past 3 years) was the freakin penalties. How does a team accumulate so many penalties, particularly facemasks, how do you get 4 of them? That's one of the main reasons why the Cowboys normally beat themselves rather then get outplayed by the opponent.

Finally how dumb was Desean Jackson's mistake in the 2nd quarter? I don't know why the Cowboys didn't just pick up the ball but it appears like Hochuli on Sunday the official blew the whistle and made up his mind so the least they could have done was what they did, give the Eagles the ball at the 2 yard line. But still just a dumb mistake by a cocky SoB. It would been in line with Leon Lett's gaffe on Thanksgiving 15 years back or when Gus Frerotte gave himself a concussion after headbutting a wall. Kid should be benched and get a big time fine in my opinion.

A quick look at the rest of the games:

Washington surprised me, sort of, I said at the beginning of the year I can see any team in the NFC East winning the division and this is what I meant, the offense looked anemic opening night and overly conservative. Of course the Saints were hurting in the secondary by the end of the game but that is not much of an excuse for letting Santanna Moss get by your secondary near the end of the game. And an excellent throw by Jason Campbell too. Also great game for rookie Chris Horton forcing 3 turnovers and sealing the game picking off Drew Brees after a deflection.

I'm not surprised that the Pats won and that's all I'll say, didn't expect the Jets to be so conservative but I knew he'd stop Favre.

Justin Tuck is looking like the DPOY, granted he played the Rams this past week but he still had an INT return for a touchdown among other things, the guy just wreaks havoc in the backfield. I thought coming into this season was more important then Osi and he's proving that I think.

Nice resiliency shown by the veteran Colts coming back against the Vikings, they werent getting anything going until the 3rd quarter but the end to this game should give them some momentum when they play Jacksonville this Sunday (who desperately need a win)

Jay Cutler is looking more and more like a top tier QB that many expected he could be coming into this season. Phillip Rivers wasn't to shabby himself. By the way that swing pass to Darren Sproles that led to a 61 yard TD was amazing, the burst by Sproles is just electrifying to watch a guy that fast. He did the same thing vs. the Colts in the playoffs last year.

And now we'd like to take a brief timeout from the blog to bring you lame moments in white guy history. Sponsored by Kraft Mayonnaise:
Spread the love, Spread the message Spread the white (Mayo)



And we're back, here is how I did on picks this past week:
6-8-1 and the Houston/Baltimore was obviously cancelled due to Hurricane Ike. I'd almost like to not count the Denver/San Diego game but I won't. I may have missed on 8 games but I feel I predicted how a lot of the games would go. 2-0 vs. the over/under though.

Kansas City @ Atlanta (-5.5)
Kansas City had a big chance to get a win last week but instead they gave up 300 yards to Darren McFadden and the Oakland rushing attack last week, Atlanta already has 1 game with over 300 yards rushing, could they do it again? Hotlanta

Cleveland @ Baltimore (-2.5)
Baltimore may be rusty after not playing last week and Cleveland will be desparate for a win. This is a tough decision, can Cleveland's offense finally get going? It will be tough but I'll wait a little longer to start trusting Joe Flacco, Browns.

Oakland @ Buffalo (-9.5)
I liked Buffalo coming into this year but it's still a little weird seeing them favored by nearly 10 points even if it's vs. Oakland in your house. Maybe they're getting a little to much love to quick but I'll say they cover. By the way an easy money maker is to bet the over/under this week set at a paltry 36.5 Take the over especially if you think Buffalo is going to cover.

Tampa Bay @ Chicago (-3)
Could be an interesting game, a throwback game where you run it 3 times every possession and punt 19 times in the game. Should be a good defensive game. I guess I'll take Chicago since they're at home, let's hope they don't blow a big lead like last week. Plus it's there home opener.

New Orleans @ Denver (-5.5)
This is a tough game to decide on, both teams have amazing offenses even with Marques Colston missing this game, Brees could will this team to victory. I think this will be a shootout and it will surpass the over/under of 51. I'll just take the Broncos riding high after last week and Jay Cutler/Brandon Marshall have another big time game.

Jacksonville @ Indianapolis (-5)
Jacksonville needs this game, BAD. But there offensive line is in shambles which has led to bad performances by MoJo Drew and Fred Taylor which in turn has led to David Garrard struggling. It doesn't get any easier with Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney both coming at you. This is always a knock down drag it out matchup with lots of big hits and it's normally a grind. But I'll say the Colts win this one and Manning finally posts his 1st big performance of the season.

Carolina @ Minnesota (-3.5)
It's a good thing that the Vikings finally benched Tarvaris Jackson, he was just simply awful, but it's not like Gus Frerotte is any better, the only thing he has over Jackson is that he's a veteran. I'd probably stay away from this game lot of elements going into this game, Steve Smith's 1st game, the Vikings desperate for a win, Adrian Peterson is questionable. Not to mention the Panthers have eeked out 2 wins, will there luck run out this week or can Jake Delhomme lead another comeback? I'll stick with Minnesota until I don't completely believe in them, but I would just not pick this game with real money

Miami @ New England (-12.5)
Hard to believe you would see a Patriot team favored by 12.5 points with out Tom Brady but when the Cardinals throw all over your pass defense the week before that will happen. I'm predicting a big week by Matt Cassel and hope the Patriots don't play so conservatively, really because I have Randy Moss on my fantasy team. Take the Patriots and the over/under is 36 if they win by more then 12 points I'd have to think the total score will be higher then 36.

Cincinatti @ Ny Giants (-13)
Until Cincinatti's offense shows up I'll take the Giants here, the Bengals have faced some tough defenses so far and it doesn't get any easier this week. Giants and the over (it's at 41) This seems like an easy week for over/under.

Pittsburgh @ Philadelphia (-3.5)
The possible game of the week, 2 of the top teams in the league and another game I'd stay away from. Pittsburgh has a tough defense and a good offense. But Philly has had a spectacular offense so far. I'll take Philadelphia because they're at home and will be not wanting to fall to 1-2. I expect the Eagles to blitz more this week, I'd stay away from this game though.

Detroit @ San Fran (-4)
I feel sorry for whoever will have to watch this game. Who'd have thought San Francisco would be favored in a game this year? This should be a shootout, I'll take the 49ers just because Detroit's defense has been historically bad so far.

St. Louis @ Seattle (-9.5)
Seattle shouldn't be favored by this much no matter how bad the Rams are, they simply have 0 depth offensively. Rams to cover, Seattle to win.

Houston @ Tennessee (-4.5)
Houston has a lot to prove after getting there ass handed to them week 1 and not playing last week. Take Tennessee in what could be a route.

Arizona @ Washington (-3)
Arizona's 1st real test against an actual defense should be an interesting one, they played last year at Washington and nearly pulled off the upset if not for a missed Neil Rackers FG as time expired. Both teams are riding high after last week, I'll take Washington because they went up against an offense which is better then the Cardinals and came out on top.

Dallas (-3) @ Green Bay
Some are saying this is Aaron Rodgers 1st real test, and he did play great against the Cowboys last year (though we had no gameplan against him either) For the Packers to win they need to control the clock and move the ball 1 first down at a time and when they get into the red zone get TD's instead of FG's. They also need a better performance from the rushing attack (I know Ryan Grant was hurt last week) For the Cowboys they need to be able to get in Aaron Rodgers face early and often and not make the secondary have to cover there man for 7 and 8 seconds. Also when they finally do get into Rodgers face they need to wrap him for the sack and not let him get away like McNabb did so many times last week. And finally the penalties are getting ridiculous by the Cowboys it needs to stop. I'll be a homer again this week and take the Cowboys.

Monday Night
NY Favre's @ San Diego Chargers (-8.5)
San Diego's defense hasn't looked spectacular but they are going to be pissed playing at home this week and fired up. The Jets need to drop the conservative crap too or Mangini will get run out of town, they can't afford to get behind the Bills and Patriots 2 games this early in the season. Unfortunately that is what will happen. Chargers get redemption for last week.

Until next week, where I'll probably be writing for myself again. I'll try and get it out a little quicker next week too.

NFL Week 1 and looking ahead to week 2

Well like any year in the NFL week 1 is always the craziest and normally where most upsets occur, so if your team blew a big game or just got annihilated don't worry...yet. Normally it is to hard to tell how good a team will be until around week 4 or 5. Hell the Giants last year almost started off 0-3 until pulling off a great comeback on the road last year against the Redskins and holding them off on a goal line stand. So if you're a Jaguars or Seahawks fan it's not quite time to panic, you may just need to get healthy (what is Matt Hasselbeck going to do after losing his top 4 WR's?)

But let's get to the biggest story of the week obviously talking abot Tom Brady's season ending injury. You never want to see a team's best player go down, especially the 1st game of the season, and I say this as a fan who's teams odds just got a little better with the Brady injury. Do I feel sorry for the Patriots organization and there fans? Yes, even if I do think Bill Belichick is a giant jackass this type of thing sucks. The NFL is such a short season compared to any other sport, not saying just the amount of games but all the time between the Superbowl to training camp and the start of the season, it's just a giant waiting process and sometimes just feels like it will never get here. I just feel terrible for the players when these type of injuries happen, or like how the 1st play in the 1st practice this year in training camp Phillip Daniels, defensive end of the Washington Redskins tears his ACL and now his whole year is over and now he's got to wait to heal and have to deal with a bunch of rehab and repetition that he doesn't want to go through. The same thing happened to All-Pro Center LeCharles Bentley who signed with his hometown Cleveland Browns a couple seasons ago and gets hurt the 1st play of training camp and hasn't played a down since, though he is currently looking for work. These guys only play for a short time, especially the average to mediocre players because there is almost some guy who can do your job who is younger, quicker and cheaper then you are and to just see them have to sit around for a year of there life is depressing to think about (and I say this realzing most of these guys will make more money then I ever will).

I don't think it was a dirty play by Bernard Pollard but he certainly hit Brady in a sensitive area, somewhat similar to Carson Palmer's knee injury, I still don't think that Palmer has completely recovered from that injury, he just doesn't look as good or as promising as he once did. As for what I think Matt Cassel can do, it's tough to say, he's been in that system for awhile but I don't forsee spectacular things, if he can just move the chains and not screw up to much I think they have the defense to keep them in games. As a guy who finally took a WR early in the draft for about the 1st time ever I'm a bit worried about what Randy Moss will do, he caught a TD pass with 11:45 left in the 2nd quarter, at that point he had 6 catches with 116 yards and didn't get another reception the rest of the day. I think Welker's production will still be fine but Moss has a tendency to disappear at times from the offense and he may begin to pout if he can't get a capable QB to get him the ball. I think Sammy Morris and Laurence Maroney will get alot of touches this year, Patriot RB's are usually hard to rely on fantasy wise because Belichick likes to use several of them but a platoon of the running backs mentioned could put up some numbers.

Jason Whitlock is one of my favorite sports writers out there, I don't always read his stuff but evertime I come across an article of his I always think he brings up interesting and somewhat thought provoking points, especially on racial issues, here is his take on the Vince Young saga this week: http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/8550254

I'd also like to say thank you to Shawn Merriman for forgoing this season after 1 game and doing what's right for now and in your future, you'll be better off getting your surgery to repair your leg and will probabl come back next year as healthy as ever. You are only 24 and if the surgery heals probably you can possibly stick in this league for a dozen more years.

Other thoughts around the league:

My pick of Michael Turner is looking good through week 1, but lets wait and see what happens when he plays a legitimate defense against Tampa Bay this weekend.

Looks like I was wrong about Desean Jackson, figured he was to small and would be like Ted Ginn was like last year where he was primarily a return man, but as long as the Eagles top 2 WR's are hurt he will be getting an extensive look. Still curious how his body will hold up over an entire season, and if he is afraid of going over the middle.

Despite Desean Jackson's performance against the lowly Rams he still wasn't the best rookie WR, that goes to Eddie Royal, he torched Deagelo Hall all game, I thought Hall was overrated in Atlanta but could be a decent #2 CB opposite Nnamdi Asomugha but man he was terrible, not to mention getting 2 penalties on back to back plays. On a somewhat positive note the Raiders had a good running game early and if Jamarcus Russell can get some time in the pocket (and a good receiver) he has the makings of living up to his #1 pick status.

What a heartbreaker dropped by San Diego, on your home turf no less, I thought Jake Delhomme handled the final minute of that game poorly when he didn't call his final timeout with 25 seconds left and he didn't get a play off until 7 seconds left. But that pump fake that fooled the camera man then to find Dante Rosario in the endzone capped off a somewhat improbable upset especially without Steve Smith. I'm telling you that team plays different when Delhomme is healthy. And that was a good throw to, sure it went seemingly through 2 Charger defenders but it was smart to throw it up high to give his Tight end a shot at being the only one who could catch it.

Now onto my thoughts about the Dallas game, they looked fantastic, I can't remember the last time I saw our offensive line perform like that, Tony Romo wasn't forced to rush things even though Cleveland was sending quite a few blitzers in the 1st half. It appears for now that the line has recovered from the 4th quarter meltdown last playoffs. The entire offense played above expectations, and coming into this week I'm even more excited to see Felix Jones, the man has burst when he gets past the 1st level that is almost unmatched in this league. He gets a head of steam like Marion Barber. About the only 2 mistakes the offense made the entire day was a drop pass from the normally surehanded Jason Witten that just went through his hands. And then on Romo's INT, I think they wanted to give Terrell Owens a touchdown after just getting a big gain, and it was obvious Romo was going to him. He could have gotten it to Owens who had separation for a split second had Romo thrown it right when he received the ball but he hesitated briefly and made a poor decision. Thankfully they were in the lead by a comfortable margin. The offense however was once again getting to many penalties, from false starts to holding this type of thing has plagued us since Parcells was here and it's got to stop because it is just killing this team.

Defensively I think in the 1st half we were somewhat shaky but left our mark on Cleveland in the 2nd half completely shutting down both Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow. But in my opinion that Browns offense isn't right, right now, Donte Stallworth and Joe Jurevicius were both hurt and one of the top return man in the league Josh Cribbs also didn't play, they were also injured in the secondary but I doubt it would have slowed down our offense that much. But both Derek Anderson and Braylon Edwards look very very rusty, Edwards screwed his team over multiple times, dropping a would be TD (though they scored one later that drive) and several passes that would have resulted in some Browns 1st downs. But I'm happy with what I saw from the secondary, especially without Terrence Newman, I think he could have played in this game but due to our depth Wade didn't see it necessary.
Up front our pass rush could have been better but Anderson was on the run several times in the 2nd half and DeMarcus Ware was doubled and triple teammed the whole game and one of the few times he got single coverage against top T Joe Thomas he forced a fumble and was credited with a sack. But they weren't blitzing much and didn't have to. And also some people were wondering how Tank Johnson and Jay Ratliff would man the run defense and it was stellar, though it was up against an injured Jamal Lewis he didn't break free for any gigantic runs, and it's been mentioned by many Cowboy writers all camp about seeing a new Marcus Spears and he had a good game Sunday. He's always been very good against the run but is normally useless against the pass. One thing I would like to see improve is the Cowboys tackling technique, especially since this next week they'll be playing Brian Westbrook who is always tough to bring down. To many times this past Sunday did it take a couple times to take down a Browns player, it was also a problem in the pre-season.

Picks last week: 9-7, last week wasn't against the spread, what I want to to do as an experiment this year is try and see how I pick against the spread and straight up.

Picks:
Tennessee Titans @ Cincinnati Bengals (-1)
The Bengals struggled mightily on offense last week against a tough Ravens D, the Titans D is just as tough and features a better pass rush. Expect to see Carson Palmer on his back. Take the Titans.

Buffalo Bills @ Jacksonville Jaguars (-5.5)
The Jags are decimated with injuries on there offensive line which led to there pathetic offensive display against Tennessee. Buffalo is riding high after last week, I like both teams and this could be another low scoring game that's 13-10. Give me the Bills outright.

Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs (-3.5)
This could be one of the few chances KC has to get a win this season, they won't spoil it, especially after nearly beating the Pats last week, they'll be riding high in the home opener. Chiefs

Indianapolis Colts (-2) @ Minnesota Vikings
Peyton Manning looked rusty last week, having an undrafted rookie Center doesn't help either, Manning could be running for his life in the pocket again this week. But so will Tarvaris Jackson and Peterson won't be running over Bob Sanders like he did Al Harris last week. Colts. By the way the over/under is at 43.5 I'd take the under

Chicago Bears @ Carolina Panthers (-3)
Both teams are riding high after surprising many (including myself) last week in some improbable upsets, I expect Jake Delhomme to run into some problems this week and missing Steve Smith will catch up to him, expect Matt Forte to build off a solid debut last week. Da Bears

Green Bay Packers (-3) @ Detroit Lions
Duh Duh Duh Da Duh Duh Duh GO PACK GO! Plain and simple, O/U is 45.5 expect Aaron Rodgers and Ryan Grant to do it big take the over.

NY Giants (-8.5) @ St. Louis Rams
I foresee the Rams surprsing some this game and Eli struggling, I think the Giants win the game in the end but by less then a touchdown.

New Orleans Saints @ Washington Redskins (even)
I can't believe this game is even, the only reason I can see is Colston will be hurt but that is not going to stop the Saints high powered offense, especially if new coach Jim Zorn puts out that excuse of an offense like he did last week vs. the Giants. Saints BIG

Atlanta Falcons @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-7)
I'm shocked the Bucs are a touchdown favorite, with Michael Turner and Jerius Norwood combining to run for over 300 yards and with John Gruden benching Jeff Garcia in favor of Brian Griese. This will be an interesting test for the Falcons ground game and could show if Michael Turner is legit, the run game needs to get going to not put any extra pressure on Matt Ryan. This is the type of game I see either being close the entire game or Gruden's Bucs will blow the Falcons out early and it won't even be the contest. I'll go with the former, take the Bucs to win, but the Falcons cover.

San Francisco 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks (-7)
The only reason the 49ers should be in this game is the Seahawks lack of WR's and lack of competent running backs (since Maurice Morris will also miss this game, enter Julius 'Suck' Jones) I'll still take the 'Hawks and predicting there defense has a huge day.

New England Patriots @ NY Jets (-1.5)
Belichick spoils Favre's home debut and reminds everyone why he is a genius. Pats

San Diego Chargers (-1.5) @ Denver Broncos
Can the Chargers recover from last weeks game or will Jay Cutler and the Broncos be able to build off of last weeks game? I say the Chargers get down early and stage a 2nd half comeback, Chargers.

Miami Dolphins @ Arizona Cardinals (-6.5)
Don't ask why but I see the Cardinals covering this and the Dolphins struggle, and once the Cardinals go 2-0 some will start to wonder whether or not they are a legit team.

Pittsburgh Steelers (-6) @ Cleveland Browns
Clevelands display last week was pathetic, while Pittsburgh was arguably the most impressive team last week, Pittsburgh normally plays great at Cleveland, take Pittsburgh, though Cleveland will come out looking noticeably better.

Monday night:
Baltimore Ravens @ Houston Texans (-4.5)
Can Houston overcome the "elements" of Hurricane Ike? Possibly, you'd like to think coming home after a big blowout will cause the team to play with a little more fire, now they have this hurricane can possibly fire up the team even more. Houston was pathetic in nearly every aspect last week. But the Ravens still have a rookie QB starting for them, take Houston.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas Cowboys (-7)
Tough matchup, obvious game of the week and both teams will come out guns a blazing, there are now a couple questions on whether or not Terrence Newman will play (for the 2nd straight week) I think we'll need him to go up against a guy like Desean Jackson because I don't know how comfortable you are with him going up against Anthony Henry, Henry is great against the bigger physical corners but can't handle the speedsters, Newman can play against anyone. Adam Jones looked good last week aside from a Pass Interference penalty, he almost had a Pick 6 too. I'll predict he picks off McNabb once this Monday. And I'll also say the Cowboys cover the spread.

Until next time. Where I'll probably be writing to myself again.

Quick NFL Predictions

Since I've been short on time and sort of neglecting doing a gigantic preview here are my predictions for the upcoming season:

NFC East:
1. Dallas Cowboys
2. Philadelphia Eagles
3. New York Giants
4. Washington Redskins

Going into this season I thought any of the 4 teams could win the division, still sort of do but my goodness Washington's offense is so pathetic, this past Thursday it was more conservative then a Joe Gibbs run offense, just watching it instantly made me put them 4th. And I have never seen such a non chalantly run 2 minute drill either, you are down 2 scores and you're acting like it's the middle of the 3rd quarter! Eli Manning also got lucky as hell that the Redskins DB's have hands of stones because they dropped several Interceptions. I think he's going to be the same inconsistent Eli and though everyone is saying now that Eli gets a free pass for now and maybe forever I see that changing sometime after the halfway point through the season. The 2 teams that really scare me as a Dallas fan are the Eagles and the Saints, for the Eagles it really depends on the health of McNabb and a couple other key guys, the Saints offensive fire power makes me fear them. Of course they could also prove that the Katrina year was all a fluke and just a wave of momentum that was a truly special year. Oh and the Cowboys special teams suck, really just there coverage teams.

NFC South
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Carolina Panthers
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
4. Atlanta Falcons

I could see the Bucs finishing from 1st to 4th, will be interesting given there tougher schedule this year, Gruden seems to do well every other year with this Bucs team. But I haven't been a fan of that team for awhile, 1st round fodder at best. I could see Atlanta surprising some and finish 3rd (or if the division is extremely weak 2nd) The Panthers success hinges on Jake Delhomme and whether or not Steve Smith feels like fighting for his team rather then with it. Also needs a rebounded year from Julius Peppers who's in a contract year and is looking for a big pay day after a disappointing season last year.

NFC North
1. Minnesota Vikings
2. Green Bay Packers
3. Detroit Lions
4. Chicago Bears

Picking who finishes 1st and 2nd in this division is extremely tough, as hard as picking the winner of the AFC North. Adrian Peterson needs to play the whole season to prove everyone he can go a full season injury free, something he hasn't done since his freshman year at Oklahoma. I think the Vikings defense convinces me to put them over the Packers, they got the best run stuffers in the league with Pat and Kevin Williams and what some may call the best one-on-one pass rusher in the league in Jared Allen. The Vikings have lacked a pass rusher for the longest time and now teams will struggle running and passing against them. I still think Tarvaris Jackson sucks but maybe newcomer Bernard Berrian will help (doubtful) Jackson just can't make mistakes and try and move the chains especially if the running tandem of Peterson/Chester Taylor gets shut down. As cliche as it sounds he needs to be a bus driver.
I think Aaron Rodgers will do a fine job in replacing Brett Favre this year and I think the Packers made the right decision in moving on with the future at QB. Of course my wishful thinking is praying that both Favre and Rodgers fail in there new roles and everyone is pissed at the end of the day. But that defensive line is in trouble trading DT Corey Williams and Johnny Jolly could be facing drug charges soon. I hope also that I don't eventually regret passing on Ryan Grant in my fantasy draft for Randy Moss. The Lions will be the Lions and halfway through this year we will all wonder for the thousandth time what kind of incriminating pictures does Matt Millen have of the Ford Family. Look for Calvin Johnson to live up to draft hype and see what rookie Kevin Smith can do. That defense will still suck though. And even if Chicago's defense returns to Superbowl form that offense will be abysmal and it is never a good thing to rely on points from your return man, I don't care how good Devin Hester you can't expect him to score for you every week. Also no one can really think he's going to work out as there #1 receiver either, right?

NFC West
1. Seattle Seahawks
2. Arizona Cardinals
3. St. Louis Rams
4. San Francisco 49ers

Easily the worst division in the league and what makes it even more fun is that the Patriots and the AFC East get to play them this year (HOORAY!!!) Seattle has this division locked up already, but you have to wonder with Bobby Engram out and DJ Hackett gone how much will Nate Burleson step up along with there lackluster ground game. There defense and home field advantage is top notch but it might have to carry them for the 1st half of the season. Expect Matt Hasselback to throw a ton. And to see Julius Jones mope and bitch on the sidelines, or running into the back of Walter Jones ass. I hate the 'Hawks though, that team catches so many breaks it's not even funny. It's a bit of a crapshoot for who will finish 2-4, no team is particularly strong in any category. The only reason I would give the 49ers to finish out of the cellar is because of new O-coordinator Mike Martz, but you have to wonder how will JT O'Sullivan do in his 1st chance to be a starting QB and who the hell he will be throwing to. Over the hill Isacc Bruce and 3rd WR and underachiever Bryant Johnson, this could also be an important year for Vernon Davis, here's to him staying healthy. Frank Gore should put up huge numbers this year but then again we all know how Martz forgets to run the ball from time to time, that may be the only successful thing this team will do this year, that and unleashing Patrick Willis upon the league. The Arizona Cardinals and Rams could both be fighting for the 6th playoff spot by years end, the Rams were massacred by injuries last year, to there entire offensive line (and there backups) Steven Jackson was hurt and Marc Bulger should not have been playing in over half the games with broken ribs. Interesting to see how #2 overall pick Chris Long will perform, personally I think it was a mistake to pass over Glenn Dorsey, even if they did have Adam Carriker. For the Cardinals, Kurt Warner will win some games with his arm, then lose some with his fumblitis and INT problems, then he'll probably get hurt for about a month somewhere in there too and it looks more and more like Matt Leinart is a bust.

A message to the Cardinals: Pay Anquan Boldin or trade him to DALLAS!

1. Dallas Cowboys
2. Nawlins
3. Seattle Seahawks
4. Minnesota Vikings
5. Philly Eagles
6. Green Bay Packers

not neccessarily in the order they'll finish, though I think Dallas will be the #1 seed if all goes well for them and the injury bug settles down.

AFC East
1. NE Patriots
2. Buffalo Bills
3. New York J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS!
4. Miami Dolphins

It would be beautiful to see the Dolphins beat Favre in his Jets debut tomorrow. Why do I think the Bills will finish ahead of the Jets? They were hit hard early on with season ending injuries to several key defensive players, missed Marshawn Lynch for a couple games, went over half the season with a rookie QB, Lee Evans massively underachieved and they were 2 last second field goals from finishing 9-7, oh and there best offensive player just ended a camp long holdout and is back with the team (OT Jason Peters is who I'm talking about) Sure the Jets improved in a ton of areas to and spent a crap load in free agency but I like what Dick Jauron is doing in Buffalo and if that city for once in it's history can get something to go their way they can make the playoffs. Vernon Gholston should be fun to watch as a Jet though. As for Miami, I think it is Bill Parcells goal to sign every player he can that he used to coach, no matter how old or crappy if you are available and he knows you, chances are you'll get a job.

AFC North
1. Pittsburgh Steelers
2. Cleveland Browns
3. Cincinatti Bengals
4. Baltimore Ravens

Pittsburgh's schedule is next to impossible, playing both the AFC South and NFC East in the same year (each conferences 2 toughest divisions) along with playing the other 2 1st place teams from the AFC (New England and the Chargers) But they are the Steelers and Big Ben is emerging as a top notch QB and he and WR Santonio Holmes are ready to take the next step. I just see Cleveland taking a bit of a step back, though they are going for it all this year and the next couple, they were very agressive on the trade front, not having a 1st 2nd or 3rd round pick in this years draft and giving up there 3rd rounder for next year too. They added Corey Williams, Donte Stallworth and Shaun Rogers who's great when motivated but at times seems seldom, but I think he has great size to be a nose tackle in the 3-4. But all in all I don't feel that great about there defense, Kamerion Wimbley needs to rebound from his sophmore slump to give this team a decent pass rush from the outside. Always reliable Joe Jurevicius will miss at least the 1st 6 weeks of the season and is up to Donte Stallworth to be the teams 3rd target behind phenom Braylon Edwards and the SOLDIER Kellen Winslow Jr. Cincinatti is in shambles and about the only thing keeping me from picking them last is the Ravens have a rookie coach and a rookie starting QB from a Division II school. Should still be fun to watch Carson Palmer, TJ whosyourmama and Chad Javon Ocho Cinco. I think rookie Keith Rivers will get enough tackles to make his stats look impressive to win defensive rookie of the year too.

AFC South
1. Jacksonville Jaguars
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Tennessee Titans
4. Houston Texans

Why the Jags? I'm hoping the Jaguars agressive trading in the draft to get Derrick Harvey and Quentin Groves, maybe they will finally get the one thing that has hurt them over the years and that is a steady pass rush. Plus they always seem to play Indy well but hardly ever beat them, but the Colts will coast a bit this year and turn it on come playoff time, the Jags will be the team to beat in the regular season. And why are the Titans ahead of the Texans? Because the Texans are taking a bit of a step back this year due to secondary concerns I have with them and they have yet to establish pretty much any running game. Andre Johnson goes down this season, and they are in trouble (and it's almost a guarantee he will miss some time this year, just don't know when) Im not even convinced Vince Young will show big time improvement, I just really like Jeff Fischer and will hazard a guess that his team isn't finishing last this year despite having a lackluster quarterback with limited passing skills and limited receivers. No one ever said I had to have perfect logic.

AFC West
1. San Diego Chargers
2. Denver Broncos
3. Oakland Raiders
4. KC Chiefs

1st I would like to say Shawne Merriman is the dumbest player in the league, he holds this title until he shuts his season down for what will preserve his career and get him paid down the line, which I think is the sole reason he is still playing, he wants that big time extension from San Diego, but with that knee injury looming they aren't even going to let him bring up an extension. Regardless of that situation this team is head and shoulders above this division, Id say this or the NFC South is the 2nd worst division in football. If Brandon Marshall can get it together and stay out of trouble him and Jay Cutler can possibly lead that team to a wild card spot but I think that defense is fairly weak and they are divisional round fodder, one and done. I also would love if Mike Shannahan would come out and say Selvin Young is the starting RB and that's that, would be great for my fantasy team but that will never happen. For all the credit they get for the great backs coming out of Denver they've been very unstable since Clinton Portis left, sure the running system works but there haven't been any big time studs in the backfield like they were churning out every year 5 years ago. Oakland I can see surprising some folks, they have arguably the best secondary in the league and I hope Jamarcus Russell succeeds this year with him and Darren McFadden in the backfield. I'm almost willing to guess they start the year good but fade down the stretch causing hype going into next season as a "sleeper" As for KC, they had a great draft, best by far in the league but someone has to go here and they are the most probable selection. This is a make or break year for Brodie Croyle and pretty much everyone is leaning towards break they could be and probably will be one of the teams hunting for a future QB to pair with rising WR Dwayne Bowe in this upcoming draft.

1. New England Patriots (what an easy schedule, not there fault though)
2. San Diego Chargers
3. Jacksonvill Jags
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. Indy Colts
6. Buffalo Bills

MVP: Tom Brady
DPOY: DeMarcus Ware
OROY: Kevin Smith (or whichever rookie RB does best)
DROY: Keith Rivers
COY: Dick Jauron

I'm not going to give my playoff predictions for fear of jinxing my prediction (that should be a big time hint)

Are you ready for some football?

Well the NFL season is officially started

I hope to get an NFL preview done but it's not happening til at least tomorrow.

One thing i would like to say before this game starts is I don't think the Giants are making the playoffs, I thought that this was happening before Osi Umenyiora went down, that injury just solidifies my prediction.

Another thing I hope to do is do football picks for everyweek, against the spread, right now I haven't looked at the spread for this week but here are my picks out right and not against the spread.

Washington Redskins @ New York Giants = 'skins
Detroit Lions @ Atlanta Falcons = falcons
Seattle Seahawks @ Buffalo Bills = seahawks (could see this as an upset)
New York Jets @ Miami Dolphins = ny jets
Kansas City Chiefs @ New England Patriots = patriots
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints = saints
St. Louis Rams @ Philadelphia Eagles = eagles
Houston Texans @ Pittsburgh Steelers = steelers
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tennessee Titans = jaguars
Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens = bengals
Dallas Cowboys @ Cleveland Browns = cowboys
Carolina Panthers @ San Diego Chargers = chargers
Arizona Cardinals @ San Francisco 49ers = cardinals
Chicago Bears @ Indianapolis Colts = colts
Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers = vikings
Denver Broncos @ Oakland Raiders = broncos (could see an upset)

Cya later