2008 NFL Thread

[Matt]

Two things killed the Vikings.

1) Childress is a ridiculoust conservative coach. He is conservative to a fault. How many times did McNabb get sacked? Hell, how many times was there even pressure on him?

2) Tavarias Jackson.

[SuperJediHero]

My picks for next week:

- New York
- Carolina
- Baltimore
- Pittsburgh

Yeah, I agree with this.

[Bunker]

2-2 w00t w00t.

:up:

[Showtime]

Why Dolphins loses BIG in EVERY playoff game?

Sucks! :(

Every playoff game? This is their first time in the playoffs since 2001?

[SuperJediHero]

Looks like both #6 seeds will advance... who's the better?

Ravens is much better team than their seed indicates that's for sure.

[Dr. Evil]

Giants will be winning their second Lombardi Trophy on Feb. 1.

[Go Web Go!]

Giants will be winning their second Lombardi Trophy on Feb. 1.

You mean their 4th? :word:

But seriously, I don't think they will.

[Dr. Evil]

You mean their 4th? :word:

But seriously, I don't think they will.

Yeah. I meant Second straight. I picked the Giants because they are still the reigning Super Bowl Champs until they lose in the playoffs.

As much as it pains me to do it.

[Venom'sDad]

Let the game end... geesh

[Double Down]

2-2 w00t w00t.

:up:


4-0 w00t w00t w00t w00t.

:up::up:

[The Game]

McNabb is a fool, LOL

[NewYorkSpider]

2008 NFL Playoff Pool Standings


Users @ 4-0
Double Down
Metropolis Man
Kaleb

Users @ 3-1
Matt
Mister J
FaT_tONle
Holiday

Users @ 2-2
fu manchu
ih8nyy
NewYorkSpider
Excel
Addendum
gogetter0587
CalebYourMaster
BunkerXXI
Bond
Showtime
Thor Odinson
Panophobia

Users @ 1-3
Alex The Great
Raiden
StorminNorman Returns
Erzengal
Dark Donnie
The Last Son
CConn

[Bunker]

4-0 w00t w00t w00t w00t.

:up::up:

:dry:

:csad:

[StorminNorman]

I think Arizona can beat Carolina next week.

I also think the Eagles are the team the Giants least want to see right now.

It seems, however, my two year NFL PLAYOFF POOLSTREAK is at an end. :(

[Venom'sDad]

What is the playoffs schedule next week...

[The Game]

Giants need to be scared of this man

http://i40.tinypic.com/a47yax.gif

:hehe:

[FaT_tONle]

I am hoping the Eagles knock off the Giants... then get blown out against the Panthers in a repeat of the 04 Championship game..

[Double Down]

What is the playoffs schedule next week...

http://www.nfl.com/schedules?seasonType=POST#Week

[Venom'sDad]

Yeah... I just saw it on Fox

[Double Down]

The Cardinals get to play in the night game, which will help them. West Coast teams hate playing in the 1 p.m. games, because it's like playing at 10 a.m. for them.

[Matt]

Ugh, the Fox studio team is absolutely obnoxious. It is like watching a bunch of senile old men rant incoherrantly while Michael Strahan and Jay Glazer humor them...and Frank Caliendo pops up every now and then for some reason :huh:

[NewYorkSpider]

The Cardinals get to play in the night game, which will help them. West Coast teams hate playing in the 1 p.m. games, because it's like playing at 10 a.m. for them.

Arizona played Carolina pretty good when the met in the regular season. However, Arizona is 3-5 on the road and have allowed 248 points away from home(most in the NFL). Carolina is 8-0 at home and have only allowed 111 points in their own stadium(2nd in the NFL). Arizona is also 0-5 on the east coast. Carolina has everything in favor for them and SHOULD win this game.

[Go Web Go!]

Giants need to be scared of this man

http://i40.tinypic.com/a47yax.gif

:hehe:

And at times, so do his own fans.

[Venom'sDad]

Well, if you leave it to Cmill, those numbers means NOTHING.... Nothing he'll tell you.

[NewYorkSpider]

edit

[jaguarr]

Ugh, the Fox studio team is absolutely obnoxious. It is like watching a bunch of senile old men rant incoherrantly while Michael Strahan and Jay Glazer humor them...and Frank Caliendo pops up every now and then for some reason :huh:

It'th better than lithening to Thannon Tharpe on Thee-Bee-Eth! :dry:

jag

[Double Down]

Cmill's arguement last time was telling someone that Arizona could beat Atlanta. I think someone said "Arizona is no competition for Atlanta and they'll blow right by them". Something like that. I'm only stating why Carolina should win the game. I'm not telling everybody that it's an easy game to win.

Actually, Cmill was explaining why Arizona had no chance to win.

[Matt]

I disagree. With the addition of Cowher, the rest of the team on CBS more than picks up the slack for Shannon Sharpe where as no one is picking up the slack for the **** that is Fox.

[NewYorkSpider]

Actually, Cmill was explaining why Arizona had no chance to win.

I had to go back and be sure that was what he was arguing about. :o Must have got it mixed up. Thanks.

[Showtime]

I think Arizona can beat Carolina next week.

I really don't, I think Arizona's defense is going to kill them in the end. Although Carolina isn't a defensive juggernaut, look for a shootout.

I also think the Eagles are the team the Giants least want to see right now.

That I agree with.

It seems, however, my two year NFL PLAYOFF POOLSTREAK is at an end. :(

I guess your Return wasn't all it was hyped up to be.

[Double Down]

I had to go back and be sure that was what he was arguing about. :o Must have got it mixed up. Thanks.

I'm not saying Arizona will win. I just think the 8 p.m. start time was much better for them than 1 p.m.
I haven't decided who I am going to pick yet.

[NewYorkSpider]

I'm not saying Arizona will win. I just think the 8 p.m. start time was much better for them than 1 p.m.
I haven't decided who I am going to pick yet.

I think start times have no effect on how teams perform. The Cardinals played against the Eagles at Philadelphia at 8:00 on Thursday Night. They lost 48-20.

[Double Down]

I think start times have no effect on how teams perform. The Cardinals played against the Eagles at Philadelphia at 8:00 on Thursday Night. They lost 48-20.


From SI's Peter King:
The NFL puts teams at a huge disadvantage --particularly road teams -- by having them play on the Thursday night NFL Network package.
The aftermath is great. "Like having a mini-bye-week,'' said Arizona coach Ken Whisenhunt, because a team that plays on one of the eight Thursday nights doesn't play again for either 10 or 11 days. But that doesn't make up for the trials a road team faces in the quick turnaround. I am not blaming the travel and Thanksgiving night game for the Cardinals' pathetic performance at Philadelphia, but you're deluding yourself if you think the short week didn't play a part in it.
I examined the short week of the Cardinals in advance of their game at Philadelphia and found three distinct disadvantages they faced:
1. They were coming off a very physical game with the New York Giants, likely the best team in football.
2. They were unfamiliar with the Eagles. Only two of Arizona's 16 coaches and 19 of the 53 players were with the Cardinals the last time they played Philly, in 2005. Four of the eight Thursday night games this year match division foes, meaning the teams wouldn't have to prepare for the unknown.
3. None of the other 2008 Thursday night visitors will have to travel nearly as far as Arizona's four-and-a-half-hour, 2,369-mile trip.
Whisenhunt shared his game-week schedule with me. "The hardest thing in the NFL is letting go of an emotional game,'' he said in the wake of losing to the Giants in such a hard-fought game. "Something like that is very hard. But in this week, we quite literally had no choice.''
I knew teams obviously had to combine and shorten six days of preparation into three. But I was clueless about much of the way they did so. Here's how the Cards did it:
Monday
Two normal days get mashed into one. By 7 a.m., assistant coaches had to have their grades done for each player, which meant most of them were in the office no later than 5. Grading a position group takes from two to three hours. Each play is run back and forth, back and forth, and the assignment and technique and result of each player on the field gets a grade.
From 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., the offensive and defensive coaches broke into groups to break down Philadelphia game tape (very little of the Philly tape prep was done in the Cards' bye week six weeks earlier) and make the game plan. While the coaches were meeting, players straggled in for treatment. One, defensive tackle Darnell Dockett, came in at 9:30 to have his shoulder, knee, ankle and hamstring treated for two hours, went home for an hour, then came back for more treatment before afternoon meetings began at 2.
"All on the same leg,'' Dockett said. "That's what makes it so hard. I'll be happy if I'm 80 percent Thursday. I sure ain't going to be 100.''
From 2 to 4:30, players meet to digest a condensed version of all runs in the game plan, most dropback passes, and all play-action passes. From 5-7 p.m., Whisenhunt held practice, installing what normally would be installed at a Wednesday practice. Players went home. From 8 p.m. to midnight, the coaches met to finish the game plan, working on red-zone, goal-line and nickel plays. Most coaches were at the facility for 17 hours, minimum, on Monday.
Tuesday
A 7 a.m. coaching-staff meeting kicked off the day to polish off the final game plan. Players arrived around the same time to lift and get treatment before the morning 8:30-11 a.m. meetings to digest the rest of the game plan. They practiced for two hours, starting at 11:30, then met with their coaches, went over practice tape and did the individual studying most do during the course of a week.
Wednesday
A combination Friday and Saturday, complete with seven hours of travel time. Players will play in the league 10 years and not ever have as strenuous a midweek day as this one. It's impossible. "I've never done anything like this day in all my years in football,'' said Dockett. Players reported for meetings at 6 a.m., with the coaches teaching the usual Friday stuff -- short-yardage, goal line ad two-point plays. Whisenhunt ran a two-hour practice beginning at 7:45 a.m. (as was the case all week, no pads were worn, and no players were ever hit in a practice) with the final play installation.
After showering and loading their bags for the trip east (and putting them through airport screening at the practice facility so they can just walk onto the charter at Sky Harbor airport), players boarded buses at 10:45 for the short trip to the airport. They were airborne at noon Mountain Time, on the ground just before 6:15 Eastern Time in Philadelphia, and at the hotel by 6:45.
Whisenhunt was mindful of the season. Upon arrival at the hotel, the team's Thanksgiving Dinner was served. On the menu: Roast turkey, pork loin, roast sirloin, salmon, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, acorn squash, stuffing, mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, cranberry sauce, macaroni and cheese, sautéed green beans. If anyone had room left in the old boiler, a nearby table had apple pie, pumpkin pie, bread pudding, and assorted cakes, cookies and ice cream.
The coaches liked seeing the players eat turkey, mostly. "Hopefully,'' Whisenhunt said before the trip, "They'll eat plenty. It'll help them sleep. They'll need it.''
Players THEN MET SOME MORE, from 8-10 p.m., to go over that morning's practice tape and also get their final marching orders for the game, as they'd do in a normal Saturday evening meeting at the hotel.
That was it. Whisenhunt wanted the players off their feet Thursday at the hotel. He hoped the coaches and players could use the quiet day to catch up on much-needed sleep. First bus to Lincoln Financial Field for the 8:15 p.m. kickoff: 5 p.m.
One final note: The charter would land back in Phoenix at about 5 a.m. Friday and players would have Friday, Saturday and Sunday off. Whisenhunt allowed players with family on the East Coast to not fly back with the team if they so chose. The coaches would sleep for a while, then wrap up the game at the practice facility from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For the coaches, Thanksgiving dinner would be Friday night ... but the reward would be ample: They'd have the incredible NFL rarity of two full in-season days off, Saturday and Sunday. After the rout by Philadelphia, I doubt they enjoyed it very much.

I wouldn't put too much stock into that game.

[Cmill216]

Actually, Cmill was explaining why Arizona had no chance to win.

That's not what I was arguing.

I was arguing why I liked Atlanta far more in the game. I never said Arizona didn't have a chance.

[Dark Donnie]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v232/12398/jacksblock.gif

[NewYorkSpider]

1. They were coming off a very physical game with the New York Giants, likely the best team in football.
2. They were unfamiliar with the Eagles. Only two of Arizona's 16 coaches and 19 of the 53 players were with the Cardinals the last time they played Philly, in 2005. Four of the eight Thursday night games this year match division foes, meaning the teams wouldn't have to prepare for the unknown.
3. None of the other 2008 Thursday night visitors will have to travel nearly as far as Arizona's four-and-a-half-hour, 2,369-mile trip.


1. The Cardinals are coming off a tough game against Atlanta.
2. This one doesn't really have an arguement since both teams saw each other in the regular season.
3. The Cardinals will have to travel around 2,000 miles to Charlotte. The only thing different about that is they have a week to prepare rather than three days and only will have 7 days of rest, while Carolina has had 13 days to rest. I just can't see Arizona winning this game.

[Matt]

Hey NYS, are you going to send out new PMs or should we just send our picks to you?

[NewYorkSpider]

Hey NYS, are you going to send out new PMs or should we just send our picks to you?

Everyone can send me their picks now if they want. I will send out reminders through out the week so everyone doesn't forget. So if you do want to wait untill later in the week you can.

[Marx]

I disagree. With the addition of Cowher, the rest of the team on CBS more than picks up the slack for Shannon Sharpe where as no one is picking up the slack for the **** that is Fox.

I greatly prefer the CBS team to the FOX team. FOX gets on my nerves.

[Marx]

Giants need to be scared of this man

http://i40.tinypic.com/a47yax.gif

:hehe:

I cannot stand that man. http://www.superherohype.com/forums/images/smilies/icon13.gif

Why Dolphins loses BIG in EVERY playoff game?

Sucks! :(

The Dolphins had a great year though! There's nothing to be ashamed of!

[rdh007]

The Vikings broke my heart again. Get to the playoffs and do nothing. Oh well, at least they made it to the playoffs. Also, I'd love to say I hate McNabb, but I'm praying starting now that he makes his way to the Vikings as that seems to be the biggest thing they're missing.

[Caped Crusader]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v232/12398/jacksblock.gif

that was cheap. typical Eagles

[Marx]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v232/12398/jacksblock.gif

I didn't know that 'WWE chokeslams' were legal in the NFL... :huh:

[Darthphere]

Well when I was taught the basics of blocking on my high school team, you're taught to lift and separate. He forgot the second part.

[Kelly]

I cannot stand that man. http://www.superherohype.com/forums/images/smilies/icon13.gif



The Dolphins had a great year though! There's nothing to be ashamed of!


The guy behind him is saying......."Dude, don't embarrass yourself on national TV."

[Dark Donnie]

that was cheap. typical Eagles

:whatever:

Pretty dumb statement considering we're not know for being cheap

[Caped Crusader]

:whatever:

Pretty dumb statement considering we're not know for being cheap

Yea not at all. :whatever:

http://cache.gettyimages.com/xc/1594779.jpg?v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF1939057D9939C83F106892E6BCDCDBBB9FA 5A5397277B4DC33E

2002 Monday Night Football. Ike Hillard gets a deep ball thrown his way, ball sailed over his head and here comes Dawkins with a knockout on a defenseless receiver

Today he led with his helmet while AP was going down. hitting part of his helmet and neck.

I like Dawkins but he is dirty

[Cmill216]

2002 Monday Night Football. Ike Hillard gets a deep ball thrown his way, ball sailed over his head and here comes Dawkins with a knockout on a defenseless receiver

Yeah, that's BS.

Ike Hilliard would never get a deep ball thrown his way.

[Caped Crusader]

Yeah, that's BS.

Ike Hilliard would never get a deep ball thrown his way.

He's received a number of deep balls during his years with the Giants

[Darthphere]

He's received a number of deep balls during his years with the Giants

Whatever he did in his free time off the field has no baring on his play.

[Showtime]

:whatever:

Pretty dumb statement considering we're not know for being cheap

You're on the Eagles?

Whatever he did in his free time off the field has no baring on his play.

We have a winner.

[Dark Donnie]

Yea not at all. :whatever:

http://cache.gettyimages.com/xc/1594779.jpg?v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=17A4AD9FDB9CF1939057D9939C83F106892E6BCDCDBBB9FA 5A5397277B4DC33E

2002 Monday Night Football. Ike Hillard gets a deep ball thrown his way, ball sailed over his head and here comes Dawkins with a knockout on a defenseless receiver

Today he led with his helmet while AP was going down. hitting part of his helmet and neck.

I like Dawkins but he is dirty

I think you'd be in the minority calling Brian Dawkins a dirty player. Both of your examples are sketchy at best as well. Helmet to Helmet hits happen on almost every play in the NFL...I seriously doubt Dawkins went with the intent to hurt AD.

You're on the Eagles?


:whatever: Thanks for that great response... They're not known for being dirty.....better?

[Showtime]

:whatever: Thanks for that great response... They're not known for being dirty.....better?

I personally think so. I didn't realize you were so sensitve. :csad:

[Marx]

I think you'd be in the minority calling Brian Dawkins a dirty player. Both of your examples are sketchy at best as well. Helmet to Helmet hits happen on almost every play in the NFL...I seriously doubt Dawkins went with the intent to hurt AD.



:whatever: Thanks for that great response... They're not known for being dirty.....better?

But they are dirty nonetheless.

[Dark Donnie]

I personally think so. I didn't realize you were so sensitve. :csad:

I'm not....I just didn't like the accusation that Dawkins was dirty by VRich.

No harm :up:

But they are dirty nonetheless.
If a helmet to helmet hit classifies a team as dirty then every team plays dirty.

[Shemtov]

You're on the Eagles?


.
some fans use the term "we" to mean "my team". i don't like myself....but its out there. :(

[Marx]

I'm not....I just didn't like the accusation that Dawkins was dirty by VRich.

No harm :up:


If a helmet to helmet hit classifies a team as dirty then every team plays dirty.

They are no where near being as bad as the Steelers, but they have taken their fair share of shodding hits.

*waits for Matt to enter the thread and blindside me with a crowbar :oldrazz:*

[Double Down]

some fans use the term "we" to mean "my team". i don't like myself....but its out there. :(

Why don't you like yourself?

:dry:

[MoPlaYa]

i hope ravens win it all

[MoPlaYa]

i hope ravens win it all

[Matt]

They are no where near being as bad as the Steelers, but they have taken their fair share of shodding hits.

*waits for Matt to enter the thread and blindside me with a crowbar :oldrazz:*

You're a Bengals fan, aren't you? :cmad:

But yeah, the Eagles have a long history of being one of the dirtiest teams in the NFL going all the way back to the Bounty Bowls.

[Matt]

Also...The Today Show doing the Super Bowl pre-game...the ****in' Today Show :facepalm

[Dark Donnie]

Tomlinson out for remainder of playoffs?

According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, "no one in the Chargers organization truly expects LaDainian Tomlinson to play Sunday at Pittsburgh."

"He might be able to play in another week if we were able to go on," coach Norv Turner said. "Or maybe he could play in another week after that." The groin will likely keep LT2 out of the remainder of the players and will require surgery. Darren Sproles and Michael Bennett will be facing a much tougher test this week at Pittsburgh. Jan. 5 - 8:53 am et
Source: San Diego Union-Tribune

[Immortalfire]

Also...The Today Show doing the Super Bowl pre-game...the ****in' Today Show :facepalm

What? :dry:

[Matt]

What? :dry:

NBC has The Today Show crew hosting the Super Bowl pre-game. :csad:

[Immortalfire]

That has to be some kind of cruel joke :(

[Matt]

No, my friend. Keith Olberman as part of the NBC studio team was a cruel joke. The Today Show doing Super Bowl pre-game...that's a whole different level :csad:

[Go Web Go!]

How long will the pre-game show run this year? 18 hours?

[Silver Knight]

So what are the playoff match ups now? Who's playing who?

[War Party]

This is the only place where I'm seeing people calling that block on Jackson a cheap shot. Every where else I've seen are calling it a good block down field and have made no claim of a dirty hit. Warren Sapp's hit on on Chad Clifton was dirty, that wasn't.

[Go Web Go!]

I didn't have a problem with it.

So what are the playoff match ups now? Who's playing who?

Baltimore/Tennessee
San Diego/Pittsburgh
New York/Philly
Carolina/Arizona

[gogetter0587]

was there anyone doing the pick em that got all 4 correct?

[FaT_tONle]

How come NO ONE likes Arizona this week? They nearly beat Carolina earlier. I mean Carolina almost lost to the Saints despite a 20 point lead with an opportunity to clinch a bye. I just think what goes around comes around. No one expected the Panthers to make that run to the Superbowl in the '04 playoffs... now when they are expected to advance for a change... I think they'll get beat by the underdog just like when they were the underdogs a few years back. I am not saying Karma will be the deciding factor... but Arizona did shut down the "Burner" Turner last week... they can shut down the running game and they can get pressure on Delhomme. I think the Cardinals can win a close one. The weather isn't terrible in Carolina either.

[Double Down]

was there anyone doing the pick em that got all 4 correct?

Three people did.

[Marx]

You're a Bengals fan, aren't you? :cmad:

But yeah, the Eagles have a long history of being one of the dirtiest teams in the NFL going all the way back to the Bounty Bowls.

Well, the Bengals ARE the hometown team....I wouldn't go as far as to say I'm a fan, but I do enjoy their games. (And I do recall a certain hit on Carson Palmer a few years back. :cmad:)

[Holiday]

For those that are really pissed about The Today Show cast doing the Super Bowl pregame, I have a great idea: Don't watch it. While that is definitely a WTF move by NBC, there will be plenty of other channels with pregame coverage.

Well, the Bengals ARE the hometown team....I wouldn't go as far as to say I'm a fan, but I do enjoy their games. (And I do recall a certain hit on Carson Palmer a few years back. )

If it wasn't for that hit we may have seen the Bengals win the Super Bowl that year. Now they're like, the all around worst team in football.

[Showtime]

some fans use the term "we" to mean "my team". i don't like myself....but its out there. :(

I am sorry you don't like yourself, but thanks for the tutorial.

For those that are really pissed about The Today Show cast doing the Super Bowl pregame, I have a great idea: Don't watch it. While that is definitely a WTF move by NBC, there will be plenty of other channels with pregame coverage.


What a revolutionary idea.

[Go Web Go!]

If it wasn't for that hit we may have seen the Bengals win the Super Bowl that year. Now they're like, the all around worst team in football.

Not if the Lions have anything to say about it

[Marx]

If it wasn't for that hit we may have seen the Bengals win the Super Bowl that year. Now they're like, the all around worst team in football.

The Bengals are not the worst team around. The Detriot Lions are. Had Carson Palmer not been injured again this season, who knows what might have happened.

And in case you missed it, Coach Cowher said that the Bengals are THE TEAM to watch next season. (He noted the return of Palmer and the addition of Cedric Benson.)

[Immortalfire]

For those that are really pissed about The Today Show cast doing the Super Bowl pregame, I have a great idea: Don't watch it. While that is definitely a WTF move by NBC, there will be plenty of other channels with pregame coverage.


The heck you say :wow:

[Double Down]

The Bengals are not the worst team around. The Detriot Lions are. Had Carson Palmer not been injured again this season, who knows what might have happened.

And in case you missed it, Coach Cowher said that the Bengals are THE TEAM to watch next season. (He noted the return of Palmer and the addition of Cedric Benson.)

The Bengals will be THE TEAM to beat next season. And 10-13 teams will do just that.

[Marx]

The Bengals will be THE TEAM to beat next season. And 10-13 teams will do just that.

We'll see about that DD.

[Holiday]

The Bengals are not the worst team around. The Detriot Lions are. Had Carson Palmer not been injured again this season, who knows what might have happened.

And in case you missed it, Coach Cowher said that the Bengals are THE TEAM to watch next season. (He noted the return of Palmer and the addition of Cedric Benson.)

But the Lions players aren't in jail every week. And that team actually knows how to fire a bad coach.

Oh that changes everything, The the return of CP, who has yet to regain his form from the '06 season, and the addition of Cedric Benson, who put up HOF numbers in Chicago.

*Oh wait. he didn't*

[Marx]

But the Lions players aren't in jail every week. And that team actually knows how to fire a bad coach.

Oh that changes everything, The the return of CP, who has yet to regain his form from the '06 season, and the addition of Cedric Benson, who put up HOF numbers in Chicago.

*Oh wait. he didn't*

Cedric Benson put up some good numbers in the closing weeks in Cincinnati. And Marvin Lewis is not a bad coach. He is well respected in Cincinnati.

[Raiden]

Damn, I was pretty off with my playoff prediction for this past weekend; I predicted Colts, Vikings, and Falcons will win, and I was only right about Ravens. Oh well.

[Holiday]

Cedric Benson put up some good numbers in the closing weeks in Cincinnati. And Marvin Lewis is not a bad coach. He is well respected in Cincinnati.

He has had one winning season in Cinci since he's been there. The reason he's still around is because the owner is too cheap to fire him, he doesn't want to pay off his contract.

[Dark Donnie]

James Harrison slams down the current version of the Steel Curtain better than any Pittsburgh Steeler, earning him The Associated Press 2008 Defensive Player of the Year award.

The linebacker who had a career-high 16 sacks, setting a team record, and led the NFL with a career-high seven forced fumbles, beat Dallas’ DeMarcus Ware in balloting by a nationwide panel of 50 sports writers and broadcasters announced Monday. Pittsburgh defense was the league’s stingiest in total defense, pass defense and points allowed. Harrison was its main hammer.

“That’s something that everybody in the league would love to have, to be voted the top player in the league for that year,” Harrison said. “In my mind, I think I do - and it’s going to sound boring - what the defense allows me to do and what my teammates allow me to do.”

Harrison earned 22 votes to 13 for Ware.

Baltimore safety Ed Reed, the 2004 winner, got eight votes. Tennessee defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth had five and Harrison’s teammate, safety Troy Polamalu, got two.

-Associated Press

[Dr. Evil]

I will laugh so f'n hard if ESPN breaks in the middle of one of the NBA games they do to announce breaking news on Brett Favre. That won't make David Stern too happy.

[Showtime]

The Bengals are not the worst team around. The Detriot Lions are. Had Carson Palmer not been injured again this season, who knows what might have happened.

And in case you missed it, Coach Cowher said that the Bengals are THE TEAM to watch next season. (He noted the return of Palmer and the addition of Cedric Benson.)

That's the problem though, Palmer is injury prone, I'm not sure he'll be the answer for them.

[Mister J]

And in case you missed it, Coach Cowher said that the Bengals are THE TEAM to watch next season. (He noted the return of Palmer and the addition of Cedric Benson.)
I don't know about that. Palmer's a player, but the going will be a bit tougher without his familiar targets at WR.

They should have dealt/released Ocho Cinco last year. He clearly doesn't want to be there anymore and it's showing on the field. Houshmandzadeh is an unrestricted free agent and reports are the team won't franchise tag him, nor does he want them to. With Mike Brown calling the shots, I don't see them ponying up a contract. Even if they did, why wouldn't he want to extricate himself from all the drama, especially when he'll be one of the top names on the market this offseason and can pick his team?

Cedric Benson? Come on.

[ih8nyy]

I will laugh so f'n hard if ESPN breaks in the middle of one of the NBA games they do to announce breaking news on Brett Favre. That won't make David Stern too happy.

If Boras was his agent he would announce his retirement or that he's coming back with 4 minutes to go in Superbowl XVLIII.

[Dr. Evil]

This is stupid if true:

http://www.collegefootballtalk.com/2009/01/05/report-its-over-for-jagodzinski/

[Double Down]

...


Some cities and franchises don't get as many looks at it as MY COLTS have over the past decade...Such is life...MoFo

OMuhGawd...We've become the Atlanta Braves:csad:

See u in Hades Phil Rivers

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g39/doubledown44/pm.jpg


From kissingsuzykolber.com

[Dr. Evil]

Well, on the bright side:

Tarvaris Jackson is back to sucking.

[Marx]

That's the problem though, Palmer is injury prone, I'm not sure he'll be the answer for them.

Unfortunately that is true.

I don't know about that. Palmer's a player, but the going will be a bit tougher without his familiar targets at WR.

They should have dealt/released Ocho Cinco last year. He clearly doesn't want to be there anymore and it's showing on the field. Houshmandzadeh is an unrestricted free agent and reports are the team won't franchise tag him, nor does he want them to. With Mike Brown calling the shots, I don't see them ponying up a contract. Even if they did, why wouldn't he want to extricate himself from all the drama, especially when he'll be one of the top names on the market this offseason and can pick his team?

Cedric Benson? Come on.

I sincerely hope that Chad Johnson is gone after this season.

[Immortalfire]

I will laugh so f'n hard if ESPN breaks in the middle of one of the NBA games they do to announce breaking news on Brett Favre. That won't make David Stern too happy.

"On Sports Center right now...Brett Favre grilled out steaks for dinner tonight."

[Belvedere]

Well, on the bright side:

Tarvaris Jackson is back to sucking.

Even though the Bears probably would have got knocked out in the first round also, I'm glad the nation got to see T-Joke for what he really is. :)

[Raiden]

I think Colts should consider the possibility of replacing Dungy as HC. Except for that lone SB win, they haven't had much luck in the offseason, which is bad considering the fact that they have one of the two best QB in the league (Manning). They can probably do better with another HC, esp. when you have several quality coaches who are still out there like Cowher.

[Marx]

I think Colts should consider the possibility of replacing Dungy as HC. Except for that lone SB win, they haven't had much luck in the offseason, which is bad considering the fact that they have one of the two best QB in the league (Manning). They can probably do better with another HC, esp. when you have several quality coaches who are still out there like Cowher.

Barring a disaster season, Dungy will be there until he chooses not to be.

[Dr. Evil]

AP Defensive Player of the Year: James Harrison

[Ace of Knaves]

Who do you guys think is back of the year? I reckon it's between Peterson,Turner and DeAngelo Williams.

[Go Web Go!]

http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g39/doubledown44/pm.jpg


From kissingsuzykolber.com

:funny:

[FaT_tONle]

I heard the Braves comparison on my radio... the jersey looks good on him there I must add...

[Matt]

Well, the Bengals ARE the hometown team....I wouldn't go as far as to say I'm a fan, but I do enjoy their games. (And I do recall a certain hit on Carson Palmer a few years back. :cmad:)

It was a clean hit. Didn't even get a flag or a fine.

For those that are really pissed about The Today Show cast doing the Super Bowl pregame, I have a great idea: Don't watch it. While that is definitely a WTF move by NBC, there will be plenty of other channels with pregame coverage.

That's the plan.


If it wasn't for that hit we may have seen the Bengals win the Super Bowl that year. Now they're like, the all around worst team in football.

Nah, Steelers still would've won.

The Bengals will be THE TEAM to beat next season. And 10-13 teams will do just that.

:lmao:

[Matt]

-Associated Press

Harrison should've been MVP. Not Peyton Manning. But the AP has no respect for defensive players and a little bit too much bias for the name Manning.

[Showtime]

Seems to me like Mangini will end up in Cleveland with Kokins and Pioli might end up in KC. McDaniels would work nicely in Denver in my opinion.

[Marx]

It was a clean hit. Didn't even get a flag or a fine.
Ok Matt. Whatever you say Matt. :oldrazz:

[Cunning Stunts]

Who do you guys think is back of the year? I reckon it's between Peterson,Turner and DeAngelo Williams.

Turner, because he, with Matt Ryan's help, turned the Atlanta Falcons organization around.

[NewYorkSpider]

How come NO ONE likes Arizona this week? They nearly beat Carolina earlier. I mean Carolina almost lost to the Saints despite a 20 point lead with an opportunity to clinch a bye. I just think what goes around comes around.

Carolina - (8-0 at home) (Arizona - 3-5 on the road). Arizona is also 0-5 against east coast teams this season. Yeah, sometimes that doesn't mean anything, but this is why everyone likes Carolina. Do you honestly believe that Arizona is going to play good defense and run the ball effectively again, especially on the road? When Carolina played the Saints they had 2 starting defensive players out. Now Carolina is coming off a bye week with a lot of rest. I don't think it will be a blowout, but Carolina is clearly the better team here.


No one expected the Panthers to make that run to the Superbowl in the '04 playoffs... now when they are expected to advance for a change... I think they'll get beat by the underdog just like when they were the underdogs a few years back. I am not saying Karma will be the deciding factor... but Arizona did shut down the "Burner" Turner last week... they can shut down the running game and they can get pressure on Delhomme. I think the Cardinals can win a close one. The weather isn't terrible in Carolina either.


Arizona's defense looked good after Atlanta made some crucial mistakes, but they still rank dead last in rushing the football. Now they have to go on the road to Carolina where the weather is calling for showers. And look at Turner's rushing stats on the road compared to at home. There's a difference. Arizona can win this game, I just think they have to pass the ball if they want to beat Carolina.

[Holiday]

That's the plan.

I bet you'll watch it anyways just to have something to complain about.

I'm kidding, I'm kidding. :oldrazz:

Nah, Steelers still would've won.

Doubt it. Palmer was ready to go to town on that Steeler defense.

[That-Guy]

Harrison should've been MVP. Not Peyton Manning. But the AP has no respect for defensive players and a little bit too much bias for the name Manning.

I like the way you're thinking there, Matt. I also think Troy Polumalu also deserved more consideration.

I'm glad Manning and the Colts went down this weekend. Now if only those damned Ravens and Eagles would lose...

[Dr. Evil]

If Mangini is hired, Cleveland would have just violated the Rooney Rule.

[BlackLantern]

If Mangini is hired, Cleveland would have just violated the Rooney Rule.

What's that get you....a fine?? it's not like the NFL can make the Browns "unhire" Mangini

[Raiden]

Seems to me like Mangini will end up in Cleveland with Kokins and Pioli might end up in KC. McDaniels would work nicely in Denver in my opinion.

Good for Mangini. I don't think he did a great job in New York but I think he will fare better in Cleveland.

As for Jets, I read that Woody Johnson is out of the country and isn't involved with the head coach hiring process, which was the main reason why Cowher decided against interviewing for the job. I think this is the problem with the organization, which is an owner who is rather detached from the team and isn't as passionate as Pats' owner Kraft.

[jaguarr]

If Mangini is hired, Cleveland would have just violated the Rooney Rule.

Only if they don't interview any minority candidates for the position, which is easily done.

jag

[Matt]

Ok Matt. Whatever you say Matt. :oldrazz:

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r62/stref2001/banned.gif

I bet you'll watch it anyways just to have something to complain about.

I'm kidding, I'm kidding. :oldrazz:


Probably true.


Doubt it. Palmer was ready to go to town on that Steeler defense.

Not in his wildest dreams. The Steelers already beat Cinci once that year and the loss was a fluke (much like Cinci's whole 2005 season).

Only if they don't interview any minority candidates for the position, which is easily done.

jag

That's what Denny Green is for.

[jaguarr]

That's what Denny Green is for.


LMAO! Poor Denny Green. :D

jag

[Matt]

DENNY GREEN IS WHO CLEVELAND THOUGHT HE WAS! AND THEY LET HIM OFF THE HOOK! :cwink:

[Double Down]

If Mangini is hired, Cleveland would have just violated the Rooney Rule.

The Browns supposedly interviewed Mel Tucker for the job.
I'm hearing on the radio that Mangini is starting to assemble a staff and the job is all but officially his.

[Showtime]

Was that Denny Green doing the game on the radio the other day, Baltimore vs Miami. It was horrible.

[Kaleb]

Ever since that hit Palmer has never been the same qb again. Anyway Im hoping that the Ravens and Steelers both win their games.

[That-Guy]

Kaleb, that avatar is hilarious!!! HAHAHAHAHA!!!

[Matt]

Ever since that hit Palmer has never been the same qb again. Anyway Im hoping that the Ravens and Steelers both win their games.

Me too. With all this talk of how tough the AFC East and South is, its time the North show who the REAL dominant division is.

As for Palmer, its because of his team. His team got lucky. It was a year when they had a weak schedule and everyone made them out to be a bigger deal than they really were. Come 2006 when they had a real schedule, they sucked again and Palmer is the product of a bad team.

[Belvedere]

Ever since that hit Palmer has never been the same qb again. Anyway Im hoping that the Ravens and Steelers both win their games.

I feel bad for Carson, if he'd been drafted by a half decent team I reckon he'd have an MVP season under his belt by now.

[Holiday]

I feel bad for Carson, if he'd been drafted by a half decent team I reckon he'd have an MVP season under his belt by now.

If it wasn't for Peyton he would have gotten MVP in "05 I bet.

But that was a year where Manning actually deserved the award. :o

Edit: Nevermind, I'm thinking of Manning's '04 season.

[Kaleb]

Hysterical reviews on the History of the Colts DVD set

http://www.amazon.com/review/product/B000GYI34K/ref=cm_cr_pr_hist_4?_encoding=UTF8&showViewpoints=0&filterBy=addFourStar


a few reviews.

Disc 1 - Fond memories of watching the baltimore colts play. My Dad, Grandfather and I would love watching Johnny U.

Disc 2 - Very good, I would even go as far to say excelent as a pooper scooper for the dog in the back yard


By J. GECKLE

It doesn't seem that long ago that my friends would gather to watch the Baltimore Colts play. You could really feel the love back then, and you can relive it while watching Disc 1 of this set.

I found that Disc 2 works well as an ice scraper, especially on my side mirrors. But you have to break it first.


By Sandra L. Moser "Sandy" (Cape May, NJ) - See all my reviews

Love that Baltimore Colts history. I probably won't watch disc 2 but my dog loves retrieving it.

[Marx]

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r62/stref2001/banned.gif




:csad:

[Kaleb]

http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d80ddf5c8

best of the season.

[Double Down]

Why the Cardinals may do even better next year:

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/fantasy/01/05/monday.clicks/

What I'm Going To Remember on Draft Day: Assuming Kurt Warner remains with the Cardinals, I would seriously consider taking the Pro Bowler ahead of Jay Cutler, Donovan McNabb, Ben Roethlisberger and maybe even Tony Romo -- given his explosive weapons (Fitzgerald, Boldin, Steve Breaston, Tim Hightower, Jerheme Urban, etc.) and the fact Arizona will have no more than two cold-weather games (@ CHI, @ NYG) in '09 -- the kind of amazing fantasy luck in which Drew Brees experienced this year.

[Darthphere]

No, my friend. Keith Olberman as part of the NBC studio team was a cruel joke. The Today Show doing Super Bowl pre-game...that's a whole different level :csad:

Al Roker: I think more teams need to with the 3-4 defense as there is an ever growing focus on the running game. The cover-2 is a thing of the past that needs to be eliminated.

Matt Lauer: What?

[Venom'sDad]

Network are going to do whatever idea they think will bring in more entertainmemt and revenue... so why bother. The power is in the viewer by not tuning in. ;)

[BlackLantern]

I won't be watching any of that pregame abomination and will probably have the NFL.com simulcast going because I refuse to listen to John Madden verbally gang rape the Super Bowl

[Darthphere]

John Madden: This is the biggest game of the year.

[Venom'sDad]

John Madden: This is the biggest game of the year.

If he didn't state the obvious magnitude of the game, than many would be saying he is down playing it. :dry:

[FaT_tONle]

The Browns supposedly interviewed Mel Tucker for the job.
I'm hearing on the radio that Mangini is starting to assemble a staff and the job is all but officially his.

Why do I have a feeling Mangini will be the next Belicheck with the Browns?

And a side note... since I believe the Jets/Browns both finished in third place... I think they'll play each other next year. That should be interesting. Then you can have a three way love triangle with Belicheck/Mangini/New Jets coach...

[Showtime]

The things you think about Tonie.

[Immortalfire]

The things you think about Tonie.

He's gonna hurt himself.

[Matt]

Anyone else think people are overestimating the Giants?

[That-Guy]

Anyone else think people are overestimating the Giants?

I hope not because I really want to see them beat the piss out of the Eagles.

[POWdER-man]

I hope not because I really want to see them beat the piss out of the Eagles.

:cmad::cmad::cmad:

[The Chris]

Anyone else think people are overestimating the Giants?

What gives you that idea sir? I've been hearing a lot about how the giants should be afraid of the eagle (UUUUGGGGH!!) Personally I believe the Giants are the better team, on both sides and the coaching staff. Am I nervous about this game? Yes, because when you're on a roll you're on a roll (which the eagles are right now). However if the Giants play their game to the best of their ability and the Eagle play like they did yesterday (which was close even with the vikings' QB getting chokeslammed and stinking up the joint) The Giants should win. Also This time they are coming from a good amount of rest, no one's talking about the fool who shot himself, and Jacobs should be good to go. Honestly after the mets collapse and the Phillies winning the world seriesm I can't handle Philly going over one of my teams again.

[Double Down]

Big Ben has been cleared to play Sunday.

[Venom'sDad]

Figured he would be

[That-Guy]

Big Ben has been cleared to play Sunday.


WOO-HOO!!!

I didn't think he'd miss it, but you never know.

[NewYorkSpider]

What gives you that idea sir? I've been hearing a lot about how the giants should be afraid of the eagle (UUUUGGGGH!!) Personally I believe the Giants are the better team, on both sides and the coaching staff. Am I nervous about this game? Yes, because when you're on a roll you're on a roll (which the eagles are right now). However if the Giants play their game to the best of their ability and the Eagle play like they did yesterday (which was close even with the vikings' QB getting chokeslammed and stinking up the joint) The Giants should win. Also This time they are coming from a good amount of rest, no one's talking about the fool who shot himself, and Jacobs should be good to go. Honestly after the mets collapse and the Phillies winning the world seriesm I can't handle Philly going over one of my teams again.

The Giants should be afraid of the Eagles. The Eagles did beat them in the Meadowlands last month 20-14. The Giants are the better team and have the better coaching staff, but with a team like the Eagles riding momentum into the playoffs, they should be afraid of them. The fact that this is a divison game has upset written all over it.

[Double Down]

I think this week's games are harder to call than last week's were.

[Venom'sDad]

No team should be afraid of another... that goes against the the gladiator nature of the game.

[NewYorkSpider]

I think this week's games are harder to call than last week's were.

I've done my research on the Carolina/Arizona game. I'm pretty sold on Carolina winning. The other three games are very hard to call.

[The Chris]

The Giants should be afraid of the Eagles. The Eagles did beat them in the Meadowlands last month 20-14. The Giants are the better team and have the better coaching staff, but with a team like the Eagles riding momentum into the playoffs, they should be afraid of them. The fact that this is a divison game has upset written all over it.

I think when you're the super bowl champs you shouldn't be afraid of anyone. I have that ill feeling whenever talking about when one team should be afraid of the other. Should they not take these guys for granted, hell yes. Should they be entirely focused on this team and know that they mean business and can easily win this? Hell yes. But I think fear is something the Giants shouldn't be doing. I think that's one of the first steps to a loss.

And I don't know why, maybe someone can explain this feeling, but I feel that in the end that game will be very close, but it can also easily be a blow out.

[The Chris]

I've done my research on the Carolina/Arizona game. I'm pretty sold on Carolina winning. The other three games are very hard to call.

Am I the only one who thinks the Panthers are gonna stomp all over the Cardinals.

[NewYorkSpider]

And I don't know why, maybe someone can explain this feeling, but I feel that in the end that game will be very close, but it can also easily be a blow out.

The Giants/Eagles ALWAYS have close games. This one should come right down to the 4th quarter. I wouldn't even be surprised if it went to overtime.

Am I the only one who thinks the Panthers are gonna stomp all over the Cardinals.

:huh:

I think mostly everyone is picking the Panthers over the Cardinals.

[The Chris]

The Giants/Eagles ALWAYS have close games. This one should come right down to the 4th quarter. I wouldn't even be surprised if it went to overtime.



:huh:

I think mostly everyone is picking the Panthers over the Cardinals.

Yeah about Giants/Eagles. I know everyone's picking the Panthers, but I'm talking about the Panthers totally creaming them. Blowing them out. Have this feeling this game ain't gonna be close.

[NewYorkSpider]

Yeah about Giants/Eagles. I know everyone's picking the Panthers, but I'm talking about the Panthers totally creaming them. Blowing them out. Have this feeling this game ain't gonna be close.

If the Cardinals passing game shows up they should keep it close. If their defesne and running game show up like it did on Saturday, they have a chance to win. I don't think it'll be the latter part. The game should be close.

[The Chris]

Well, the weekend will definitely be interesting. I want Panthers/Giants. Panthers are one of those non-NYC teams that I always liked (It's that cat, it's awesome) Plus I loved that game they had a few weeks ago. So exciting and stressful (which is how I like it, means my team is worthwhile)

[bunk]

I'm thinking the NFC games will be relatively boring this week. Panthers and Giants will win pretty decisively.

[Venom'sDad]

Hmmm....

[Silver Knight]

I didn't have a problem with it.



Baltimore/Tennessee
San Diego/Pittsburgh
New York/Philly
Carolina/Arizona

Thanks. :)

[Double Down]

Harrison has contributed to Colts’ postseason woes
by Adam Schefter
When all is said and done, Marvin Harrison will go down as one of the greatest receivers in NFL history. But he did not make his mark in the posteason.
The fine folks at coldhardfootballfacts.com came up with this beauty. Harrison ranks fourth all-time with 1,102 receptions and 14,580 receiving yards, and ranks fifth all-time with 128 touchdown receptions.
But in the post-season, he has been nothing more than ordinary. In 16 post-season games — the equivalent of one NFL regular season — Harrison has 65 catches for 862 yards and two touchdowns. Making it worse is that both those touchdowns came in one blowout 41-10 win over the Broncos.
Other than that, Harrison has failed to produce in the postseason, including just three catches for 20 yards during Saturday night’s 23-17 wild-card loss to the Colts.
Harrison disappared Saturday night, just like he has in many postseason games. Now he might be disappearing from Indianapolis all together.

[Venom'sDad]

Once again analyst cover for Peyton's failures. :(

[Double Down]

Once again analyst cover for Peyton's failures. :(

I don't think so. He's just noting Harrison has vanished in the playoffs. Harrison is such a quiet guy that it has gone un-noticed.

[Cmill216]

Wow, that's pretty miserable. No touchdowns in 15 of his 16 playoff games?

[Venom'sDad]

Peyton has vanished in the playoffs.... he came out of college known for his inability to win the big game. Believe it or not he really carried that skill into college. That has always and will always be the knock against him.

Harrison ability for the big play, accurate route running, and ability to draw coverage to him allowing others(Wayne, Clark, Stokely, etc) to soar, appear to be under-appreciated. Especially being a wounded duck for most of the year. Yeah... lets blame Harrison, he's the easy out this year for Peyton's failure again.

[Double Down]

Wow, that's pretty miserable. No touchdowns in 15 of his 16 playoff games?

I know. I had no idea.

[Marx]

Once again analyst cover for Peyton's failures. :(

In other news...

It is now day (insert ridiculous number here) of 'Will Brett Favre retire or not?'

[Venom'sDad]

Terry Bradshaw said it best on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno... "no one want to see what happen last off-season, again this year". Make an announce and go away.

[Marx]

Terry Bradshaw said it best on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno... "no one want to see what happen last off-season, again this year". Make an announce and go away.

I always liked Terry Bradshaw! :yay:

[Holiday]

Favre has really ruined his reputation. He's gone from "gun slingin', good ol' boy" that everyone loved to "that selfish douche that won't retire".

And he's earned it.

[Silver Knight]

Am I the only one who thinks the Eagels will beat the Giants?

[That-Guy]

Terry Bradshaw is a god among insects. But it's funny how sometimes people forget that fact... even in Pittsburgh.

A little while back I went to see my favorite band The Smashing Pumpkins play at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. If I remember correctly, it was right after the Steelers shut out the Seahawks last season, so Steeler fever was in the air. About halfway through the set, Billy Corgan shouted "Roethlisberger!" and the crowd instantly went insane with cheers. Then he shouted "Bradshaw!" and while a few of us immediately cheered, it took the rest of the audience a few extra seconds before they recognized the name and started shouting. He was like "Yeah, you'd better cheer for that!" And he was right. A quarterback with four Super Bowl rings... he's pretty much the reigning Michael Phelps of football as far as I'm concerned.

[Silver Knight]

Favre has really ruined his reputation. He's gone from "gun slingin', good ol' boy" that everyone loved to "that selfish douche that won't retire".

And he's earned it.

Indeed.

[Marx]

Favre has really ruined his reputation. He's gone from "gun slingin', good ol' boy" that everyone loved to "that selfish douche that won't retire".

And he's earned it.

Agreed.

[Holiday]

Terry Bradshaw is a god among insects. But it's funny how sometimes people forget that fact... even in Pittsburgh.

A little while back I went to see my favorite band The Smashing Pumpkins play at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. If I remember correctly, it was right after the Steelers shut out the Seahawks last season, so Steeler fever was in the air. About halfway through the set, Billy Corgan shouted "Roethlisberger!" and the crowd instantly went insane with cheers. Then he shouted "Bradshaw!" and while a few of us immediately cheered, it took the rest of the audience a few extra seconds before they recognized the name and started shouting. He was like "Yeah, you'd better cheer for that!" And he was right. A quarterback with four Super Bowl rings... he's pretty much the reigning Michael Phelps of football as far as I'm concerned.

Wow... you're not bias at all, huh? :oldrazz:

You know, Joe Montana also has four Super Bowl rings.

[Cmill216]

Cmill Plays GM


Lions:
Choice Head Coach - Steve Spagnuolo

Contrary to popular belief, the Detroit Lions aren't the worst team in football. There's some promise on this team, namely in the abilities of all-purpose back Kevin Smith and all-world wide receiver Calvin Johnson. The Lions, first and foremost, need a complete makeover defensively, and Spags should be able to give them just that.

With the #1 pick in the draft, the Lions most certainly should target Georgia QB Matthew Stafford. Stafford worked in a pro style offense at Georgia, and routinely faced some the nation's stingiest defenses in the SEC. Stafford's rifle arm, combined with the talents of Smith and Johnson would give the Lions a formidable "triplet" setup.

With free agency and the draft, Spags could scrap Marinelli's failed attempt at the Tampa 2 and build his signature Jim Johnson style pressure scheme with athletic backers and ends. With Terrell Suggs potentially available, Spags would have his veteran centerpiece to build upon.

If the Lions wanted to really change the dynamic of their football team, how about hiring Brian Billick to run the offense? In Billick's offensive heyday with the Vikings in '98 he had a big play passing game with Randall Cunningham throwing deep to Randy Moss, with balance in the running game in the form of 1,000 yard rusher Robert Smith. Stafford, Johnson, and Smith could very well duplicate that same formula.

**********

Denver:
Choice Head Coach - Josh McDaniels

McDaniels hybrid spread offense was killer in 2007, setting records aplenty with Brady, Moss, & Welker. In 2008, he transformed Matt Cassell from perennial benchwarmer to one of the league's hottest young QBs.

McDaniels would translate those same principals to a Denver offense already built to run his system: a young gunslinger in Cutler, a terrific trio at wideout with Marshall/Royal/Stokely, and a solid offensive line.

The focus from there would be stabilizing the running situation, and then patching up the defense through the draft. Building a young defensive unit to compliment the dynamic young offensive unit, all led by a young head coach, would make the Broncos a force in the AFC for years to come.

**********

Browns
Choice Head Coach - Eric Mangini

Mangini can finish the job Romeo Crennel started: establishing Cleveland's 3-4 defense. The Browns need major help in the secondary, and need to look at both free agency and the draft to stabilize their back seven.

Offensively, the team should be in the hands of Brady Quinn, who has a more than serviceable core of weapons around him including Braylon Edwards, Kellen Winslow, and special teams dynamo, Josh Cribbs. The Browns should look to draft a young running back early in the draft to begin replacing the aging Jamal Lewis.

**********

Rams:
Choice Head Coach - Raheem Morris

The Rams seem intent on ignoring the big time coaching candidates in favor of smaller names, and landing Morris could be the diamond in the rough they're looking for. Morris is Mike Tomlin 2.0: a bright young mind who's energetic and the ideal players coach.

The strength of the Rams is their rushing attack behind Steven Jackson, and the team should look to build their offensive identity around him. That begins by drafting Alabama's Andre Smith with the second pick in the draft, and building a power offensive line to lead block for Jackson. The passing attack should still be serviceable off of that rushing game with Marc Bulger throwing to veteran Torry Holt and up-and-coming speedster Donnie Avery.

Defensively, Morris could look to bring in old coaching mate Rod Marinelli to re-construct the Rams defense in the Tampa 2 mold, with centerpieces Will Witherspoon, Adam Carriker, and Chris Long.

**********

Jets:
Choice Head Coach - Rex Ryan

Next to Dick LeBeau, Ryan may be the best 3-4 mind in the game today, and he's just what the Jets need to take their defense from solid to great. The #1 priority would be grooming last year's first rounder Vernon Gholston, who was virtually non-existent in New York this season.

After that, the Jets have a few glaring needs offensively, namely at quarterback. Brett Favre should be gone, and Kellen Clemens hasn't proven to be the answer. They could go after a signal caller in the 1st round, and continue to base their offense on a steady dose of playmaker running backs Thomas Jones and Leon Washington.

[Go Web Go!]

You know, Joe Montana also has four Super Bowl rings.

- and isn't an annoying jackass that makes a fool of himself on national tv every week. :word:

[gogetter0587]

Peyton has vanished in the playoffs.... he came out of college known for his inability to win the big game. Believe it or not he really carried that skill into college. That has always and will always be the knock against him.

Harrison ability for the big play, accurate route running, and ability to draw coverage to him allowing others(Wayne, Clark, Stokely, etc) to soar, appear to be under-appreciated. Especially being a wounded duck for most of the year. Yeah... lets blame Harrison, he's the easy out this year for Peyton's failure again.


He got his superbowl

[Matt]

He got his superbowl

Through luck. He played two teams who were completely inferior to his, and then he played a team that was entirely injured in the AFC championship, and then in the Super Bowl he played quite possibly the worst team to ever make a Super Bowl. He had no real competition in the 2006 play-offs.

Peyton can win a big game...but only if everything is perfect for him. The second there is the slightest break down on any level, Peyton breaks down as well. That is why guys like Brady, Farve, even Rothleisberger are better, despite what Peyton's stats say. They can adapt and adjust to bad conditions. Like true leaders, they can carry their teams when things get bad. Peyton cannot.

[gogetter0587]

Through luck. He played two teams who were completely inferior to his, and then he played a team that was entirely injured in the AFC championship, and then in the Super Bowl he played quite possibly the worst team to ever make a Super Bowl. He had no real competition in the 2006 play-offs.

Peyton can win a big game...but only if everything is perfect for him. The second there is the slightest break down on any level, Peyton breaks down as well. That is why guys like Brady, Farve, even Rothleisberger are better, despite what Peyton's stats say. They can adapt and adjust to bad conditions. Like true leaders, they can carry their teams when things get bad. Peyton cannot.


The only team the Steelers did beat in the superbowl they won was the Colts, if the colts win that game they win two straight.

The steelers beat the Seahawks.

Who had a better offense yes but the bears had An amazing Defense when the colts beat them.
Its not very much different.


Your discounting a superbowl win.

Dan marino was a winner but never won a superbowl.

Peyton manning is a winner and has won one superbowl. and his career is not over yet.

[Matt]

The only team the Steelers did beat in the superbowl they won was the Colts, if the colts win that game they win two straight.

The steelers beat the Seahawks.

Who had a better offense yes but the bears had An amazing Defense when the colts beat them.
Its not very much different.


Your discounting a superbowl win.

Dan marino was a winner but never won a superbowl.

Peyton manning is a winner and has won one superbowl. and his career is not over yet.

Steelers beat a very tough Denver team in Denver as well as a Cincinatti Bengals that were on fire at the time and many claim would've been the Super Bowl champions if not for Palmer (though I personally disagree).The Seahawks weren't much, granted...but they weren't half as bad as Chicago.

And the difference between Manning and Marino is that Marino never had the supporting cast to win a Super Bowl. Manning has had a Super Bowl calibre team for the past 9 years. He has won one Super Bowl. For a so-called "great," quaterback that is telling.

Yes, he has a Super Bowl, but he also has an abysmal playoff record. Manning still hasn't proven that he can win the big game when the conditions are not perfect for him, and that is why once he retires and the media are over their hard-on for him and find a new sweetheart, and we can actually gain some historical perspective on him...he will not be remembered as better than Brady, Montana, Farve, Aikman, or any of the other greats.

[gogetter0587]

Steelers beat a very tough Denver team in Denver as well as a Cincinatti Bengals that were on fire at the time and many claim would've been the Super Bowl champions if not for Palmer (though I personally disagree).The Seahawks weren't much, granted...but they weren't half as bad as Chicago.

And the difference between Manning and Marino is that Marino never had the supporting cast to win a Super Bowl. Manning has had a Super Bowl calibre team for the past 9 years. He has won one Super Bowl. For a so-called "great," quaterback that is telling.

Yes, he has a Super Bowl, but he also has an abysmal playoff record. Manning still hasn't proven that he can win the big game when the conditions are not perfect for him, and that is why once he retires and the media are over their hard-on for him and find a new sweetheart, and we can actually gain some historical perspective on him...he will not be remembered as better than Brady, Montana, Farve, Aikman, or any of the other greats.


First off peyton has not always had a Defense. they have had a good defense the past two maybe three years. They won one of those superbowls. He has had his team in the playoffs every year.

He is a winner and has a ring because he led his team.

He will win another and go down as one of the greats.

[Matt]

We'll see. I personally doubt he will ever win another one. Peyton is not a young man anymore, his time in the NFL is slowly ticking away and the Colts are not getting any better, but their division is. Peyton will be 33 by the next NFL season...I'd say he has 2 or 3 more seasons left and I just can't see the man who made choking in the play-offs trendy again winning another ring.

[FaT_tONle]

Once again analyst cover for Peyton's failures. :(

What's up with the Peyton Manning hate? The guy has already won it... there is nothing left to accomplish. All he has to do is compile the stats... maybe he'll catch Farve... maybe he won't. He doesn't need more rings.

[The Chris]

What's up with the Peyton Manning hate? The guy has already won it... there is nothing left to accomplish. All he has to do is compile the stats... maybe he'll catch Farve... maybe he won't. He doesn't need more rings.

I'm with you on this. The man has a ring. Why are we trying to bring up complaints about him that were said before he had one. He has a ring. Nothing that is said can change that.

[FaT_tONle]

I'm with you on this. The man has a ring. Why are we trying to bring up complaints about him that were said before he had one. He has a ring. Nothing that is said can change that.

And a side note that has nothing to do with Peyton... if I am Brady I'd retire as well. I mean there is no way he'll be the same player again coming off that injury... he already had a great 2007. He'll probably never top that year... so what if he didn't win it? He already had three rings. I'd just take a few years off... be a daddy... spend more time with Gisele... live it up a little. Maybe make a comeback 3-4 years from now if he is still hungry. The point I am making is that some football players just know when to get out an top... Brown... Sanders... go out while you are on top.

[ih8nyy]

That is why guys like Brady, Farve, even Rothleisberger are better, despite what Peyton's stats say.

Please do not ever put Favre in the same class as Brady. Favre is an over hyped QB who wilts in the clutch.

[gogetter0587]

Please do not ever put Favre in the same class as Brady. Favre is an over hyped QB who wilts in the clutch.


No reason to debate this one . You are wrong

[Belvedere]

Through luck. He played two teams who were completely inferior to his, and then he played a team that was entirely injured in the AFC championship, and then in the Super Bowl he played quite possibly the worst team to ever make a Super Bowl. He had no real competition in the 2006 play-offs.

Peyton can win a big game...but only if everything is perfect for him. The second there is the slightest break down on any level, Peyton breaks down as well. That is why guys like Brady, Farve, even Rothleisberger are better, despite what Peyton's stats say. They can adapt and adjust to bad conditions. Like true leaders, they can carry their teams when things get bad. Peyton cannot.

Oh please, that's bull.

[BlackLantern]

Chicago was extremely underwhelming as NFC champions

[Kaleb]

Oh please, that's bull.

So a superbowl contender team lead by Rex Grossman isnt quiet possibly the worst team to compete in the superbowl ? :huh:

[gogetter0587]

So a superbowl contender team lead by Rex Grossman isnt quiet possibly the worst team to compete in the superbowl ? :huh:


I actually don't think so . I agree that the bears offense was horrendous and bad but there defense was amazing not to mention the fantastic special teams play they had all year.

They were the team that won enough games to get the superbowl for the NFC which means they were the best NFC team that year. I would agree that they werent the most attractive team ever but not the worst either.

[bunk]

Didn't Hester run back for a TD as soon as the game started? I don't think anything else of interest happened.

[That-Guy]

- and isn't an annoying jackass that makes a fool of himself on national tv every week. :word:

Yes, I'm aware that Montana has four rings as well. So yeah, fine, he's on par with Bradshaw. As for the annoying jackass comment... it's just his over-the-top personality. If he just sat there and gave stats, he'd be boring.

[Belvedere]

Chicago was extremely underwhelming as NFC champions

Perhaps, but the worst team to ever make a Super Bowl? Not even close.

So a superbowl contender team lead by Rex Grossman isnt quiet possibly the worst team to compete in the superbowl ? :huh:

Yeah, because one player a team makes. :whatever:

[gogetter0587]

Statistic Indianapolis Colts Chicago Bears Points scored per game 26.7 (2nd, tied) 26.7 (2nd, tied) Points allowed per game 22.5 (23rd) 15.9 (3rd) Rushing yards gained per game 110.1 (18th) 119.9 (15th) Rushing yards allowed per game 173.0 (32nd) 99.4 (6th) Passing yards gained per game 269.2 (2nd) 205.1 (14th) Passing yards allowed per game 159.2 (2nd) 194.8 (11th) Yards gained per play 6.0 (2nd) 5.0 (21st) Yards allowed per play 5.5 (29th) 4.6 (2nd) Time of possession per game 29:32 (23rd) 30:56 (11th) Third-down conversion percentage 56 (1st) 37 (22nd) Third-down conversion percentage allowed 47 (32nd) 31 (2nd) Fourth-down conversion percentage 0 (32nd) 69 (4th, tied) Fourth-down conversion percentage allowed 79 (30th, tied) 62 (27th) Total turnover differential +7 (7th) +8 (4th)

Equal points per game the same.

Bears 3rd in the league in points allowed third in the entire league. o yeah and the colts fantastic support behind peyton, 23rd in the league my brotha.

Peyton is a winner and he won the big game period.

good try though

[Darthphere]

Like I said, Matt's hatred for Peyton is both irrational and unfounded.

I love that he's trying to diminish his super bowl win now. Wow, that's like me saying Tom Brady isn't **** because Vinatieri is the real reason they won those Super Bowls.

[FaT_tONle]

Bears were the #1 seed in 06.

[Double Down]

The Bears were better than the Panthers team that made it in a few years back.
The worst all time team to make it to the Super Bowl was the Los Angeles Rams squad of 1979.

[gogetter0587]

The Bears were better than the Panthers team that made it in a few years back.
The worst all time team to make it to the Super Bowl was the Los Angeles Rams squad of 1979.


or how bout rich gannon and his raiders

[Dr. Evil]

Drew Brees = NFL Offensive Player of the Year

[Cmill216]

The Bears were better than the Panthers team that made it in a few years back.

Hell no they weren't.

The Panthers defense was comparable to the Bears, if not more dynamic with a young Julius Peppers, Kris Jenkins, and Mike Rucker. One of the better defensive lines of the past 10 years.

And on offense, Delhomme throwing to Steve Smith, Muhammed, and Proehl? With the tandem of Stephen Davis and DeShaun Foster in the backfield?

The 2003 Panthers were leaps and bounds better than 2006 Bears.

or how bout rich gannon and his raiders

The 2002 Raiders had one of the most prolific passing games of the era. The problem was, they matched up horribly in the Super Bowl.

[StorminNorman]

Cmill Plays GM


Lions:
Choice Head Coach - Steve Spagnuolo

Contrary to popular belief, the Detroit Lions aren't the worst team in football. There's some promise on this team, namely in the abilities of all-purpose back Kevin Smith and all-world wide receiver Calvin Johnson. The Lions, first and foremost, need a complete makeover defensively, and Spags should be able to give them just that.

With the #1 pick in the draft, the Lions most certainly should target Georgia QB Matthew Stafford. Stafford worked in a pro style offense at Georgia, and routinely faced some the nation's stingiest defenses in the SEC. Stafford's rifle arm, combined with the talents of Smith and Johnson would give the Lions a formidable "triplet" setup.

With free agency and the draft, Spags could scrap Marinelli's failed attempt at the Tampa 2 and build his signature Jim Johnson style pressure scheme with athletic backers and ends. With Terrell Suggs potentially available, Spags would have his veteran centerpiece to build upon.

If the Lions wanted to really change the dynamic of their football team, how about hiring Brian Billick to run the offense? In Billick's offensive heyday with the Vikings in '98 he had a big play passing game with Randall Cunningham throwing deep to Randy Moss, with balance in the running game in the form of 1,000 yard rusher Robert Smith. Stafford, Johnson, and Smith could very well duplicate that same formula.

**********

Denver:
Choice Head Coach - Josh McDaniels

McDaniels hybrid spread offense was killer in 2007, setting records aplenty with Brady, Moss, & Welker. In 2008, he transformed Matt Cassell from perennial benchwarmer to one of the league's hottest young QBs.

McDaniels would translate those same principals to a Denver offense already built to run his system: a young gunslinger in Cutler, a terrific trio at wideout with Marshall/Royal/Stokely, and a solid offensive line.

The focus from there would be stabilizing the running situation, and then patching up the defense through the draft. Building a young defensive unit to compliment the dynamic young offensive unit, all led by a young head coach, would make the Broncos a force in the AFC for years to come.

**********

Browns
Choice Head Coach - Eric Mangini

Mangini can finish the job Romeo Crennel started: establishing Cleveland's 3-4 defense. The Browns need major help in the secondary, and need to look at both free agency and the draft to stabilize their back seven.

Offensively, the team should be in the hands of Brady Quinn, who has a more than serviceable core of weapons around him including Braylon Edwards, Kellen Winslow, and special teams dynamo, Josh Cribbs. The Browns should look to draft a young running back early in the draft to begin replacing the aging Jamal Lewis.

**********

Rams:
Choice Head Coach - Raheem Morris

The Rams seem intent on ignoring the big time coaching candidates in favor of smaller names, and landing Morris could be the diamond in the rough they're looking for. Morris is Mike Tomlin 2.0: a bright young mind who's energetic and the ideal players coach.

The strength of the Rams is their rushing attack behind Steven Jackson, and the team should look to build their offensive identity around him. That begins by drafting Alabama's Andre Smith with the second pick in the draft, and building a power offensive line to lead block for Jackson. The passing attack should still be serviceable off of that rushing game with Marc Bulger throwing to veteran Torry Holt and up-and-coming speedster Donnie Avery.

Defensively, Morris could look to bring in old coaching mate Rod Marinelli to re-construct the Rams defense in the Tampa 2 mold, with centerpieces Will Witherspoon, Adam Carriker, and Chris Long.

**********

Jets:
Choice Head Coach - Rex Ryan

Next to Dick LeBeau, Ryan may be the best 3-4 mind in the game today, and he's just what the Jets need to take their defense from solid to great. The #1 priority would be grooming last year's first rounder Vernon Gholston, who was virtually non-existent in New York this season.

After that, the Jets have a few glaring needs offensively, namely at quarterback. Brett Favre should be gone, and Kellen Clemens hasn't proven to be the answer. They could go after a signal caller in the 1st round, and continue to base their offense on a steady dose of playmaker running backs Thomas Jones and Leon Washington.

Bumped for brilliance.

[Holiday]

Steelers beat a very tough Denver team in Denver as well as a Cincinatti Bengals that were on fire at the time and many claim would've been the Super Bowl champions if not for Palmer (though I personally disagree).The Seahawks weren't much, granted...but they weren't half as bad as Chicago.

The way I remember that Seattle/Pittsburgh Super Bowl, it was like the officials handed the Steels the game. So I'd say Big Ben got some luck in that game as well.

[Double Down]

The Bears were better than the Panthers team that made it in a few years back.
The worst all time team to make it to the Super Bowl was the Los Angeles Rams squad of 1979.


Hell no they weren't.

The Panthers defense was comparable to the Bears, if not more dynamic with a young Julius Peppers, Kris Jenkins, and Mike Rucker. One of the better defensive lines of the past 10 years.

And on offense, Delhomme throwing to Steve Smith, Muhammed, and Proehl? With the tandem of Stephen Davis and DeShaun Foster in the backfield?

The 2003 Panthers were leaps and bounds better than 2006 Bears.


Because you wrote this, I looked up the 2003 Panthers to see if I was remembering it wrong. I wasn't. After the 40th Super Bowl, ESPN did a ranking of all 80 Super Bowl teams (at that point).
Here are the 2003 Panthers:

79. 2003 CAROLINA PANTHERS 11-5 (3-1)
Don't be fooled by Carolina's near win in the Super Bowl. This was a .500 team masquerading as a playoff squad. The Panthers barely outscored their opponents during the regular season (seven of their 11 wins were by three points or less) despite a pretty easy schedule – only six games against .500-or-better teams. While the defense was solid, especially in an NFC title win over Philly, they lost three straight games late in the season, the offense was mediocre, and just two players (Stephen Davis and Kris Jenkins) made the Pro Bowl.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=super/rankings/80-61

[That-Guy]

The way I remember that Seattle/Pittsburgh Super Bowl, it was like the officials handed the Steels the game. So I'd say Big Ben got some luck in that game as well.

No they didn't. There was a contraversial call on the touchdown that Ben dove for, and he DID get across the line. I'm getting really sick of people talking about how much the officials "help" the Steelers when I've seen them take away multiple touchdowns over bullsh** (cough)Chargers(cough)Giants (cough)Browns(cough), award 100+ penalty yards to opposing teams and fine the crap out Pittsburgh.

Once in a long while, things go Pittsburgh's way and everyone's up in arms. Give me f**king break.

[Holiday]

Chicago was extremely underwhelming as NFC champions

True, but their defense and special teams were two of the best that year. But the offense, oh that offense was terrible. If it wasn't for the bad weather in Miami The Colts may have put up 40 on them.

[Showtime]

Hell no they weren't.

The Panthers defense was comparable to the Bears, if not more dynamic with a young Julius Peppers, Kris Jenkins, and Mike Rucker. One of the better defensive lines of the past 10 years.

And on offense, Delhomme throwing to Steve Smith, Muhammed, and Proehl? With the tandem of Stephen Davis and DeShaun Foster in the backfield?

The 2003 Panthers were leaps and bounds better than 2006 Bears.



Moral of the story, the Patriots were better than the Panthers in 2003.

[Holiday]

No they didn't. There was a contraversial call on the touchdown that Ben dove for, and he DID get across the line. I'm getting really sick of people talking about how much the officials "help" the Steelers when I've seen them take away multiple touchdowns over bullsh** (cough)Chargers(cough)Giants (cough)Browns(cough), award 100+ penalty yards to opposing teams and fine the crap out Pittsburgh.

Once in a long while, things go Pittsburgh's way and everyone's up in arms. Give me f**king break.

I sat there and watched the game. There was a number of bad calls that went Pittsburgh's way. An early Seattle touchdown was called back, the Big Ben non touchdown, and I think Matt Hasselback got a penalty for an illegal block when he made a tackle after throwing a pick.

And I'm only talking about one game, not the Steeler's whole season or anything.

[Belvedere]

True, but their defense and special teams were two of the best that year. But the offense, oh that offense was terrible. If it wasn't for the bad weather in Miami The Colts may have put up 40 on them.

Bear's ST was #1 both 2006 and 2007, Toub's a great coach.

[Showtime]

Bear's ST was #1 both 2006 and 2007, Toub's a great coach.

I'm not sure he is a great coach, but certainly a solid and/or good coach. I could be mincing words.

[Holiday]

Bumped for brilliance.

It should be bumped for brilliance to every page.

[RAMORE]

Bumped for brilliance.

Those are pretty logical and good ideas thanks for bumping:up:

Except Mangini? I don't get it they used a Belichik guy that now they say doesn't work so what will they do to fix it...hire another belichik guy it's genius!!! :down:

Through luck. He played two teams who were completely inferior to his, and then he played a team that was entirely injured in the AFC championship, and then in the Super Bowl he played quite possibly the worst team to ever make a Super Bowl. He had no real competition in the 2006 play-offs.

Peyton can win a big game...but only if everything is perfect for him. The second there is the slightest break down on any level, Peyton breaks down as well. That is why guys like Brady, Farve, even Rothleisberger are better, despite what Peyton's stats say. They can adapt and adjust to bad conditions. Like true leaders, they can carry their teams when things get bad. Peyton cannot.

I agree with some of this also Peyton didn't play very well in the superbowl but his team did.

Well I wanted to see the cinderella stories of the falcons and dolphins continue but they just didn't play well enough.

What QB's do yall expect to come out in the draft this year?

Have yall made super bowl predictions?

[Go Web Go!]

Are 5 posts in a row really necessary?

[Raiden]

Bumped for brilliance.

Rex Ryan for Jets HC is a smart move, but whether Jets' front office is smart enough to hire Ryan is another story.

[Marx]

Are 5 posts in a row really necessary?

No.

[Belvedere]

Are 5 posts in a row really necessary?
Are 5 posts in a row really necessary?
Are 5 posts in a row really necessary?
Are 5 posts in a row really necessary?
Are 5 posts in a row really necessary?

Yes. :o

[Holiday]

Are 5 posts in a row really necessary?

Only if they're good.... so in his case. no. :oldrazz:

Rex Ryan for Jets HC is a smart move, but whether Jets' front office is smart enough to hire Ryan is another story.

They definitely should. I just don't get why Ryan hasn't gotten a head coaching job yet. He's obviously a brilliant defensive mind.

[Go Web Go!]

Yes. :o

:cmad:

[Immortalfire]

Are 5 posts in a row really necessary?

Only if you're a spamming noob.

[Cmill216]

Because you wrote this, I looked up the 2003 Panthers to see if I was remembering it wrong. I wasn't. After the 40th Super Bowl, ESPN did a ranking of all 80 Super Bowl teams (at that point).
Here are the 2003 Panthers:

79. 2003 CAROLINA PANTHERS 11-5 (3-1)
Don't be fooled by Carolina's near win in the Super Bowl. This was a .500 team masquerading as a playoff squad. The Panthers barely outscored their opponents during the regular season (seven of their 11 wins were by three points or less) despite a pretty easy schedule – only six games against .500-or-better teams. While the defense was solid, especially in an NFC title win over Philly, they lost three straight games late in the season, the offense was mediocre, and just two players (Stephen Davis and Kris Jenkins) made the Pro Bowl.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=super/rankings/80-61

Three points that I think are mularkey in this:

1.) In 2003, 14 teams finished with a winning record. Excluding Carolina, that's 13. Now, four of their wins came against the Saints and the Bucs who finished 8-8 and 7-9 respectively. Had the Carolina Panthers not won those 4 games, the Saints would've been 10-6 and the Bucs would've been 9-7. So it's hard to fault the Panthers for "not beating anyone" when they essentially prevented a pair of teams from having winning records.

And to add to that, who cares who they did or didn't beat in the regular season? Because come playoff time, they knocked off three winning teams, including the top two seeds in the NFC on the road.

2.) Citing the number of Pro Bowl players is just plain asinine. The Giants won the Super Bowl last year, and they only had one damn Pro Bowler.

3.) Offensively, they were a top 10 rushing team. And in the playoffs, they put up 29 points in three of their four games, two of those games against the two teams that gave up the single fewest points in the entire league (New England and Dallas).

[Matt]

The way I remember that Seattle/Pittsburgh Super Bowl, it was like the officials handed the Steels the game. So I'd say Big Ben got some luck in that game as well.

No they didn't. There was a contraversial call on the touchdown that Ben dove for, and he DID get across the line. I'm getting really sick of people talking about how much the officials "help" the Steelers when I've seen them take away multiple touchdowns over bullsh** (cough)Chargers(cough)Giants (cough)Browns(cough), award 100+ penalty yards to opposing teams and fine the crap out Pittsburgh.

Once in a long while, things go Pittsburgh's way and everyone's up in arms. Give me f**king break.

Exactly. Besides, 2 of the 3 questionable penalties were good calls.The offensive pass interference call was a good call. Jackson touched Hope when Hope was in contention for the ball. THat's a no-no. No matter how little he touches, he still touched. Thus the flag. Same with the hold. Just because John Madden says that refs usually don't call it, doesn't make it any less illegal. If I usually do not get caught when I rob a bank, does that mean when the police finally do apprehend me, I should not be charged? The whole, "you don't call penalties in a game of that magnitude," is a load of crap to me. A penalty is a penalty. No matter what the game.

As you said, replays showed that Big Ben broke the plane on his TD, so the touchdown is moot.

The only bad call was the Hasselback illegal block. And it wasn't that big of a deal at that point.

Plus, how quickly people forget the horrid officiating against the Steelers in the game against the Colts. An encroachment penalty is ruled a "do-over," by the refs instead of giving the Steelers the 1st down when going for it on 4th and 1. The "do-over," resulted in the Steelers missing the conversion.

Plus there was the infamous Polamalu interception that the refs deemed not an interception which the NFL later apologized for.

That game had the worst officiating I've ever seen, it was like Archie Manning was the ref. Plus the Denver game had quite a few questionable calls against the Steelers as well.

But it happens. Bad calls by officials are part of any sport. You win some because of it, you lose some because of it and you move on.

True, but their defense and special teams were two of the best that year. But the offense, oh that offense was terrible. If it wasn't for the bad weather in Miami The Colts may have put up 40 on them.

They were a good defense and special teams squad in a very bad division. They weren't exactly the equivilant of the Steel Curtain of the 70s as gogetter seems to believe.

[That-Guy]

Exactly. Besides, 2 of the 3 questionable penalties were good calls.The offensive pass interference call was a good call. Jackson touched Hope when Hope was in contention for the ball. THat's a no-no. No matter how little he touches, he still touched. Thus the flag. Same with the hold. Just because John Madden says that refs usually don't call it, doesn't make it any less illegal. If I usually do not get caught when I rob a bank, does that mean when the police finally do apprehend me, I should not be charged? The whole, "you don't call penalties in a game of that magnitude," is a load of crap to me. A penalty is a penalty. No matter what the game.

As you said, replays showed that Big Ben broke the plane on his TD, so the touchdown is moot.

The only bad call was the Hasselback illegal block. And it wasn't that big of a deal at that point.

Plus, how quickly people forget the horrid officiating against the Steelers in the game against the Colts. An encroachment penalty is ruled a "do-over," by the refs instead of giving the Steelers the 1st down when going for it on 4th and 1. The "do-over," resulted in the Steelers missing the conversion.

Plus there was the infamous Polamalu interception that the refs deemed not an interception which the NFL later apologized for.

That game had the worst officiating I've ever seen, it was like Archie Manning was the ref. Plus the Denver game had quite a few questionable calls against the Steelers as well.

But it happens. Bad calls by officials are part of any sport. You win some because of it, you lose some because of it and you move on.



Couldn't have said it better myself. And I literally couldn't... my memory isn't quite that good. :woot:

Yeah, I remember that crap at the Colts game. Even friends of mine who HATE the Steelers admitted to me that the officials were trying to give it to Peyton. Thank God for Big Ben and the Immaculate Redemption.

[gogetter0587]

They were a good defense and special teams squad in a very bad division. They weren't exactly the equivilant of the Steel Curtain of the 70s as gogetter seems to believe.

No they were not top 5 best defenses of all time but you have to admit they were a really good defense to be able to come up 13 wins with an offense led by grossman and orton.

[Matt]

No they were not top 5 best defenses of all time but you have to admit they were a really good defense to be able to come up 13 wins with an offense led by grossman and orton.

They had a good defense in a weak division. Of course they won games. They were still a horrible match to the Colts and had no business being in the Super Bowl. Hell, the AFC Championship should've been the Super Bowl that year.

[gogetter0587]

They had a good defense in a weak division. Of course they won games. They were still a horrible match to the Colts and had no business being in the Super Bowl. Hell, the AFC Championship should've been the Super Bowl that year.


which by the way the colts won. and the whole point of this argument is that the colts were supposedly weak because they were given the superbowl on a silver platter and that is just ignorant.

[Showtime]

They had a good defense in a weak division. Of course they won games. They were still a horrible match to the Colts and had no business being in the Super Bowl. Hell, the AFC Championship should've been the Super Bowl that year.

It was for me.

[Matt]

which by the way the colts won. and the whole point of this argument is that the colts were supposedly weak because they were given the superbowl on a silver platter and that is just ignorant.

No, its not. They played a severely injured Patriots team with no defense Or recieving squad. And they still barely won that game.

[That-Guy]

Yeah, that game was pretty awesome.

[Showtime]

It was a great game.

[Darthphere]

Matt needs to just shut up about Peyton Manning. He can't be objective when it comes to anything Peyton.

"Peyton rescued a kid from drowning in a raging river!"

Matt's response: "He probably yelled at the kid for not grabbing that branch."

[Marx]

Matt needs to just shut up about Peyton Manning. He can't be objective when it comes to anything Peyton.

"Peyton rescued a kid from drowning in a raging river!"

Matt's response: "He probably yelled at the kid for not grabbing that branch."

It's not just Peyton. :hehe:

[gogetter0587]

well whoever wins the superbowl this year was just handed the superbowl because tom brady was hurt and the patriots with tom brady are the best team in the league

[That-Guy]

I have to say though that I was glad the Colts took it all that year, just because it pissed off the Ravens fans. They spent that entire season gloating over the fact that my QB was nearly killed in a motorcycle accident and wasn't up to par. I just find that disgusting. You want to be happy that your team is doing well, fine. But if you want to celebrate serious injuries, you're taking it too far.

Though to be fair, I did laugh my ass off this season when Plaxico Burress shot himself. That was pretty funny.

[Dark Donnie]

No, its not. They played a severely injured Patriots team with no defense Or recieving squad. And they still barely won that game.

Who were New England without? Can't seem to find the injury report.

[That-Guy]

well whoever wins the superbowl this year was just handed the superbowl because tom brady was hurt and the patriots with tom brady are the best team in the league

That's not technically true, considering that Brady didn't win the bowl last year. Not saying that he isn't great... and true, he probably is the best QB in the game, but I don't really think you can say that whoever wins the SB had it "handed" to him just because Brady isn't playing. Though it did make it easier to beat the Pats this year.

[Holiday]

Exactly. Besides, 2 of the 3 questionable penalties were good calls.The offensive pass interference call was a good call. Jackson touched Hope when Hope was in contention for the ball. That's a no-no. No matter how little he touches, he still touched. Thus the flag.

The Pittsburgh defender flopped to the ground like a damn basketball player hoping to get a foul call. And he did get the call.

Same with the hold. Just because John Madden says that refs usually don't call it, doesn't make it any less illegal. If I usually do not get caught when I rob a bank, does that mean when the police finally do apprehend me, I should not be charged? The whole, "you don't call penalties in a game of that magnitude," is a load of crap to me. A penalty is a penalty. No matter what the game.That was a hold, but it had no effect on the play at all. It happened on the other side of the line.

As you said, replays showed that Big Ben broke the plane on his TD, so the touchdown is moot.If I remember correctly, Ben did cross the line so I give you that one.

The only bad call was the Hasselback illegal block. And it wasn't that big of a deal at that point.I still don't see how Hasseleck was called for a block when he's he the defensive player at that point. And it was still very much a game at that time, that penalty cost Seattle 15 yards of field position.

Plus, how quickly people forget the horrid officiating against the Steelers in the game against the Colts. An encroachment penalty is ruled a "do-over," by the refs instead of giving the Steelers the 1st down when going for it on 4th and 1. The "do-over," resulted in the Steelers missing the conversion.

Plus there was the infamous Polamalu interception that the refs deemed not an interception which the NFL later apologized for.

That game had the worst officiating I've ever seen, it was like Archie Manning was the ref. Plus the Denver game had quite a few questionable calls against the Steelers as well.No argument here. That was a poorly officiated game. But just like some people feel the refs wanted to hand Manning and the Colts the game, I feel the refs wanted to hand Pittsburgh the Super Bowl. That way Jerome Bettis leaves the game as a champion, and Bill Cowher gets his ring.

[Marx]

That's not technically true, considering that Brady didn't win the bowl last year. Not saying that he isn't great... and true, he probably is the best QB in the game, but I don't really think you can say that whoever wins the SB had it "handed" to him just because Brady isn't playing. Though it did make it easier to beat the Pats this year.

While Matt Cassel may not be Tom Brady, he certainly proved his worth. http://www.superherohype.com/forums/images/smilies/icon14.gif

[gogetter0587]

That's not technically true, considering that Brady didn't win the bowl last year. Not saying that he isn't great... and true, he probably is the best QB in the game, but I don't really think you can say that whoever wins the SB had it "handed" to him just because Brady isn't playing. Though it did make it easier to beat the Pats this year.


that has been my point the whole time. pointing out that Matt has no point

[Matt]

The Pittsburgh defender flopped to the ground like a damn basketball player hoping to get a foul call. And he did get the call.

And if he wasn't touched by Jackson he wouldn't have had the opportunity to. You can't blame a player for exploiting his opponent's mistake.


That was a hold, but it had no effect on the play at all. It happened on the other side of the line.

It doesn't matter if it effects it. A hold is a hold.


If I remember correctly, Ben did cross the line so I give you that one.

I still don't see how Hasseleck was called for a block when he's he the defensive player at that point. And it was still very much a game at that time, that penalty cost Seattle 15 yards of field position.

I agree it was a bad call but as I said, bad calls are bad calls. They are part of the game. A great team can overcome them.


No argument here. That was a poorly officiated game. But just like some people feel the refs wanted to hand Manning and the Colts the game, I feel the refs wanted to hand Pittsburgh the Super Bowl. That way Jerome Bettis leaves the game as a champion, and Bill Cowher gets his ring.

Maybe. Or maybe they are just idiots, which wouldn't suprise me for an NFL ref.

[Excel]

Peyton is Marino and Brady is Montana with 1 freakish season. You always take the winner over the stat machine, and in this case, Brady holds the td record as well, so...

Brady is clearly the best in the game. Manning never had anything handed to him; his problem has always been he doesnt elevate his game in the clutch. Brady or even Big Ben as another comparison are usually good for the most part but really turn it on when it matters and play legendary for a drive or 2. MaPeyton is simply always great, rarely if ever better or worse. Fortunately, it seems Eli doesnt share that characteristic.

As for Mannings super bowl-please. Everybody knew the real championship of the football season was the Pats-Colts once New England defeated the heavily favored Chargers in San Diego. If The Pats dont chokeaway the lead in the 2nd half (in which Manning was brilliant, but his d stepped it up to allow them to come back), the Pats win their 4th super bowl in 6 seasons as they would have crushed Chicago. I still maintain the only reason Chicago even beat New Orleans to get there was because they got to play the NFC ship at home.

[Matt]

that has been my point the whole time. pointing out that Matt has no point

Your point is ridiculous being as the Patriots had a back up who was a few votes away from the pro-bowl and in the end, Brady is one player. A big part of the team, yes. But he is not the team. The fact of the matter is, the 2006 Patriots were injury ridden, and lacked a decent recieving core or defense. It gave the Colts an easy pass to the worst Super Bowl team in NFL history.

[Excel]

Though nobody will deny that the Patriots had a hideous recieving corps, their defense was actually excellent. It was the 2nd best in the NFL averaging just 14.8 points per game, which is their franchise record low, and forced a ton of turn overs.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/stats/byteam?group=Defense&cat=Total&conference=NFL&year=season_2006&sort=530&old_category=Total&old_group=Offense

[Holiday]

Peyton is Marino and Brady is Montana with 1 freakish season. You always take the winner over the stat machine, and in this case, Brady holds the td record as well, so...

Dan Marino, as much as I like the guy, never won a Super Bowl. Peyton has. So **** that noise. And Tom Brady is no Joe Montana. Joe Montana is Joe Montana. He's got 4 Superbowl rings and the stats too.

Brady is clearly the best in the game. Manning never had anything handed to him; his problem has always been he doesnt elevate his game in the clutch. Brady or even Big Ben as another comparison are usually good for the most part but really turn it on when it matters and play legendary for a drive or 2. MaPeyton is simply always great, rarely if ever better or worse. Fortunately, it seems Eli doesnt share that characteristic.He elevated his game in the clutch just fine in the AFC championship game the year the Colts won it all.

[Ironfan72]

I have to say, I was very happy for Arizona, those fans have suffered along time and its nice to see that franchise hopefully turn the corner and be competitive, now if my team Cincy can turn it around.

[That-Guy]

While Matt Cassel may not be Tom Brady, he certainly proved his worth. http://www.superherohype.com/forums/images/smilies/icon14.gif

Not when he played the Steelers. :woot:

But yeah, Cassel is a very solid quarterback, and I respect anyone who played as well as he did considering 1. he had the BIGGEST shoes in the NFL to fill and 2. he had a personal tragedy at the end of the season.

[Dark Donnie]

Though nobody will deny that the Patriots had a hideous recieving corps, their defense was actually excellent. It was the 2nd best in the NFL averaging just 14.8 points per game, which is their franchise record low, and forced a ton of turn overs.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/stats/byteam?group=Defense&cat=Total&conference=NFL&year=season_2006&sort=530&old_category=Total&old_group=Offense

That's what I was asking....there defense looked good, and I didn't see any big injuries.

[Double Down]

I have to say, I was very happy for Arizona, those fans have suffered along time and its nice to see that franchise hopefully turn the corner and be competitive, now if my team Cincy can turn it around.

Hopefully, Matt Millen will pick against the Cardinals this week, too.

[Ironfan72]

Hopefully, Matt Millen will pick against the Cardinals this week, too.

He picked against Detroit for 7 years:hehe:

[Darthphere]

I don't get it. The argument has always been that Peyton can't win the big game right? So by that basis he should've crapped his pants during the Super Bowl and be in the fetal position facing the Bears defense. But he overcame his big gameitis and won the ****ing Super Bowl. What is exactly the *****ing and hate about exactly? That he faced an injured Pats team and that's why the Colts won? WHo gives a ****, injuries happen late in the season, great teams are supposed to overcome that. They caught a few breaks, but Matt makes it seem like winning the Super Bowl is a cake walk.

[Belvedere]

Peyton is Marino and Brady is Montana with 1 freakish season. You always take the winner over the stat machine, and in this case, Brady holds the td record as well, so...

Brady is clearly the best in the game. Manning never had anything handed to him; his problem has always been he doesnt elevate his game in the clutch. Brady or even Big Ben as another comparison are usually good for the most part but really turn it on when it matters and play legendary for a drive or 2. MaPeyton is simply always great, rarely if ever better or worse. Fortunately, it seems Eli doesnt share that characteristic.

As for Mannings super bowl-please. Everybody knew the real championship of the football season was the Pats-Colts once New England defeated the heavily favored Chargers in San Diego. If The Pats dont chokeaway the lead in the 2nd half (in which Manning was brilliant, but his d stepped it up to allow them to come back), the Pats win their 4th super bowl in 6 seasons as they would have crushed Chicago. I still maintain the only reason Chicago even beat New Orleans to get there was because they got to play the NFC ship at home.

Like they "crushed" the Bears in the regular season? 17-13, wow. :o

So it's the Bears fault they dominated in the regular season? Is it the Bears fault the Saints can't play outside? Fact of the matter is, come playoff time you had better be ready to play in bad weather; the Saints weren't.

[RAMORE]

Not when he played the Steelers. :woot:

But yeah, Cassel is a very solid quarterback, and I respect anyone who played as well as he did considering 1. he had the BIGGEST shoes in the NFL to fill and 2. he had a personal tragedy at the end of the season.

and 3. he hadn't started since High School:wow:

[That-Guy]

and 3. he hadn't started since High School:wow:

You're right, I forgot about that one. I'm curious to see what happens with him next season.