Cutler, and Tebow, and Eagles... oh my!!! (And the return of pictures!)

So Week 5 of the NFL season is now in the books.  However, there are a few things that need to be touched on that are either not getting enough attention, or at least not the right kind.

First thing's first... Everybody better quit the Jay Cutler criticism right now.  The guy has been nothing but scrutinized his entire career.  The majority of his criticism has stemmed from last year's NFC Championship  Game against the Green Bay Packers.  Cutler went down with an MCL sprain in his knee and was unable to return to the game.  Players spoke out against him that he wasn't tough and that he looked disinterested on the sidelines while injured, or that he wasn't in backup QB Caleb Hanie's ear enough to walk him through the game.

This was the shot that had many people questioning Cutler's toughness, both mental and physical.

At the time, I was hesitant to criticize the Diabetic Cannon (or the Glucose Gunslinger, or the Vandy Dandy that Can't Have Candy, as my friend Jordan Welch would put it) because, well, I don't know how I can criticize a professional athlete for not playing injured, especially when I don't know what the pain is like.

Well, at this point into this year's season, I have seen enough to say leave Jay Cutler alone.  Anyone who has watched the Bears this year has seen the debacle that is their offensive line.  This guy is running for his life on every play and these guys simply cannot keep him upright.  Suddenly, the Bears must be regretting not re-signing veteran Pro Bowl center Olin Kreutz during the offseason, who went on to sign a deal with the New Orleans Saints.  Now, how many times have you heard Cutler complain about his line? Clue: none.  The guy has kept his mouth shut and played the game.  And ironically, it seems as though he has made less Cutler-esque mistakes this year.  It is because of Jay Cutler that I am further turned off by Michael Vick's comments earlier in the season about how his O-line is not protecting him and such.  Michael, take a page out of Jay's book, keep your mouth shut and play football.  My hat goes off to Jay Cutler for how he has handled his situation this year.  The guy has proven he's tough and he isn't even complaining about the beating he's taken.  You've won me over, Jay.

Now, onto the biggest news of the day.  In case you haven't heard, the Denver Broncos have announced that sophomore QB and fan-favorite Tim Tebow will be the team's starting QB when they return from their bye in Week 7.  

Ladies and gentlemen... it's Tebow Time.

Perhaps the most stunning thing about all of the hype, at least to me anyway, is how extreme the opinions on Tebow are.  It seems that you either love him and think he's destined to be a star in the NFL, or you think he's terrible and not worthy of playing for an NFL team.  I, however, fall into neither of the two.  I personally think that he is a viable starter in the NFL, and while he will never be a premier passer, the guy flat out makes plays; he's a winner.  And I know that phrase has been long overused in reference to Tebow, but it's true.  Anyone who watched the end of the Denver-San Diego game saw glimpses of greatness and an inconsistent pocket passer.  That is exactly what he is.  He will never have the polished passing skills of a Peyton Manning, a Tom Brady, a Drew Brees, or an Aaron Rodgers, but he finds a way to get the first down or the critical yardage when you need it the most, and it usually isn't pretty.  So far, since the beginning of the 2010 season, only Michael Vick (9) has more rushing TDs than Tebow (7) among quarterbacks.  The difference? Tebow has only started 3 games since he's been in the NFL.  

Now, I've never been a big fan of running QBs in the NFL, because they're often prone to mistakes and taking off at the wrong time, but I would actually take Tim Tebow as my starting QB.  Not because I think he's a Hall of Fame QB in the making, but because I trust his instincts and I trust his decision-making with the game on the line and in critical situations.  If I were to take him, though, it would be necessary to surround him with some weapons.  Right now Brandon Lloyd is a very good WR, but Eric Decker as a number two? And with no notable tight end threat?  No disrespect to Eric Decker, he could wind up being very good, who knows, but as of now he's not the number two guy I want to set Tebow up with.  He doesn't have a great running back to hand it off to either, despite the reemergence of Willis McGahee, especially since Knowshon Moreno hasn't panned out as expected.

Bottom line here is that Tim Tebow is neither the Broncos' savior, nor a scrub.  The guy makes plays, kisses babies, and knows how to win games.

Well.  Now onto the part that will either make you cry or smile.  The Eagles.  Where to start with the once self-titled "Dream Team"... I think at this point it is safe to say that from here on out it is an uphill battle just to keep his job.  With the talent that the organization has assembled, there is really no excuse for a 1-4 record.  After this year, Eagle fans may get what they have inconsistently off-and-on wanted for years now, an Eagle team not coached by Andy Reid.  I have never been a big "fire Andy Reid" proponent because I don't think the Eagles would have reached three straight NFC Championship games in the middle of the past decade without Reid.  But, if the season continues as it is going right now, Andy Reid should be gone.

Just to put it all in perspective, the Eagles would theoretically have to end the year 9-2 just to reach a 10-6 record and possible make the playoffs.  With the way this team has made costly mistakes, this is not only unlikely, but impossible.  The sad thing for this Eagle team is that they have been in a position to win every game they've played this year, but without fail, they have found a way to beat themselves.  

The problem has not only been their mistakes, but their defense has not lived up to expectations.  Their ridiculous secondary has been rendered irrelevant without the presence of a run defense.  They have allowed opposing running backs to impose their will on the paltry Eagles D.  Their poor tackling and execution has led me to the conclusion that I could have success running the ball against the Eagles defense behind Jay Cutler's offensive line.  They're that bad.

Is it possible for the Eagles to get it together and roll off a 9-2 run and make the playoffs? Yes.  But the reason why it will not happen is because this team is simply undisciplined.  Nobody is being held accountable for the team's mistakes and there has to be a lot going on in the locker room, considering the Players Only meeting that was called on the off day after Week 4.  Poor clock management in the final two minutes of each half has to fall equally on the shoulder of Reid and Vick, because if one mismanages, the other should have the presence of mind to bail the other out. 

Where does the blame fall? Anyone? Bueller?

Herein lies my mistrust of Michael Vick.  His head.  I don't trust him when it matters to make the crucial play in crunch time.  In theory, Vick is the Anti-Tebow.  Where Tebow excels, Vick falters.  Is Vick a better passer and better running with more raw athletic ability? Absolutely.  But who do I want managing my offense to a comeback win in the 4th quarter? The answer is simple: Tim Tebow.

To all Eagle fans, your team needs to get it together, plain and simple.  But their problem isn't one that can be fixed overnight.  The team needs to put their egos aside and form a cohesive unit.  Because if they don't, not only will they continue to beat themselves and lose games, but you can expect a slew of firings on the Eagles coaching staff and a massive overhaul.  Buckle up Eagle fans, it could be a very bumpy ride.

Week 5 Power Rankings

We're a quarter of the way into the schedule for each NFL team and it hasn't come without a few surprises and disappointments.  At this point, I'm ranking all 32 teams and giving a bold prediction about each one.

1. Green Bay Packers (4-0)-  The offense is firing on all cylinders and Aaron Rodgers is making a case that he is the best quarterback in the league.  The defense is playing well enough for the offense to be the difference.
Bold Prediction- Green Bay loses once all year and locks up the NFC by Week 15.

2.  New Orleans Saints (3-1)- The poor man's Packers.  Brees is off to a quick start with 1410 passing yards and the running game showed that you don't need one feature back to be effective.
Bold Prediction- 12 touchdowns for Jimmy Graham this year.

3.  Baltimore Ravens (3-1)-  The Ravens defense showed on Sunday night that it is still one of the toughest groups in the league and one of the most opportunistic.  Despite Flacco's poor effort, they find ways to win games against good teams.
Bold Prediction- Baltimore sweeps the division.

4. Detroit Lions (4-0)-  We knew the Lions would be much improved this year, but I'm not sure anyone knew they'd be this improved.  The Lions don't have to play the Packers until Thanksgiving, so they may be able to stay within at least a game of the division lead until then.
Bold Prediction- Stafford to Calvin Johnson produces the highest touchdown total of any QB-WR hookup in NFL history when their careers are over.

5. Houston Texans (3-1)- If it weren't for a 4th quarter hiccup against New Orleans in Week 3, they'd be 4-0.  They showed a lot of poise keeping Pittsburgh from roaring back in the 4th quarter.
Bold Prediction- Arian Foster continues to miss time sporadically throughout the year and Ben Tate is the team's leading rusher at the end of the year.

6. New England Patriots (3-1)-  With Tom Brady and Bill Belichick at the helm, they're always a Super Bowl contender.  Defense still worries me, especially with Jerod Mayo out 6 weeks.
Bold Prediction- Over 130 catches for Wes Welker this year.

7.  San Diego Chargers (3-1)-  For once, they actually are having a strong start to the year, which is dangerous for the rest of the AFC because Philip Rivers just does not lose in December.
Bold Prediction- Ryan Mathews becomes the featured back alone by Week 10.

8.  New York Jets (2-2)-  Record doesn't look too impressive, but they won't have to play the Ravens every week.  Sanchez better step it up though.
Bold Prediction- They beat New England both times in the regular season and win the division.

9. New York Giants (3-1)- Tied atop the NFC East with Washington.  Schedule hasn't been very tough, a win versus the Eagles early could be very helpful late in the season.
Bold Prediction- Giants slip up and miss the playoffs.

10.  Tennessee Titans (3-1)- Matt Hasselbeck is doing his very best to make Seattle regret not signing him every single week.  He clearly doesn't need Kenny Britt all that much.
Bold Prediction- 4,000 yards and 28 TDs for Hasselbeck.

11. Pittsburgh Steelers (2-2)- Only losses are to top 5 teams, but the injuries are piling up for Pittsburgh.  Baltimore looks much stronger and the early head-to-head loss could prove very costly.
Bold Predicton- Under 20 TDs for Roethlisberger.

12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1)- Schedule hasn't shown much, but they are 3-1. Week 6 matchup with New Orleans looms and will show their true colors.
Bold Predicition- LeGarrette Blount finishes in the top 5 in rushing.

13. Washington Redskins (3-1)- Ryan Torain burst onto the scene in Week 4 with over 100 yards on the ground.  Mike Shanahan must be liking his chops with all these rushing options.
Bold Prediction- No Redskin back rushes for 1000 yards despite over 150 carries for all 3 backs.

14. San Francisco 49ers (3-1)- Big comeback win for the Niners against Philly on the road shows they are the team to beat in the NFC West, although I'm not sure how much weight that really carries.
Bold Prediction- 10+ TDs for Frank Gore.

15.  Buffalo Bills (3-1)-  Week 4 loss to Cincinnati showed that their strong start may have been a fluke.
Bold Prediction- Bills finish the year below .500.

16.  Dallas Cowboys (2-2)- Tony Romo has been a warrior this year playing through injury, but his play has been Jekyll and Hyde.  Collapse against Detroit was just flat out embarrassing.
Bold Prediction- Romo gets it together and Dallas wins the division.

17.  Oakland Raiders (2-2)- Darren McFadden has been an animal on the ground and showing that he will be a player in this league for quite some time.
Bold Prediction- Over 1500 yards on the ground this year for McFadden.

18. Chicago Bears (2-2)- Thank God for Matt Forte last week or Carolina might have won by 10.  Offensive line can't keep Cutler upright, but maybe they can block for the run game? It must be killing Mike Martz that he has to run it.
Bold Prediction- Forte remains the team's leading receiver for the entire season by a lot.

19.  Atlanta Falcons (2-2)-  Roddy White's preseason comments that Atlanta is the newest version of the 2001 Rams "Greatest Show on Turf" is appearing quite comical.  Their play this year has been quite worrisome, especially given play of New Orleans, and Tampa Bay to a certain degree.
Bold Prediciton- Atlanta is the newest victim of the NFC South winner not repeating.  They finish 3rd in the division and miss the playoffs.

20. Philadelphia Eagles (1-3)-  "Dream Team" label is officially dead and there may be too many egos in the locker room.  Players called a "players only" meeting on Monday instead of taking their customary day off, which proves there is some trouble in paradise.
Bold Prediction- Eagles finish 8-8 and miss the playoffs.

21.  Arizona Cardinals (1-3)- Questionable call against the Giants possibly cost them the game, but a week 5 matchup with Minnesota could get them back on track.
Bold Prediction- 100 yards and 2 TDs for Fitzgerald this week in a win against the Vikes.

22.  Carolina Panthers (1-3)- Cam Newton's progress with a short offseason has been nothing short of remarkable.  I may soon have to eat my words that he will be a bust.  Needs to tone down the mistakes though if he wants his stats to translate into Ws.
Bold Prediction- 12 rushing TDs for Newton this year.

23.  Cincinnati Bengals (2-2)-  Cam Newton has gotten all of the attention, but the most impressive rookie QB may actually be Andy Dalton, who has led a team most people expected to be horrendous to a 2-2 start.
Bold Prediction- 1000 yards receiving for rookie WR A.J. Green this year.

24.  Cleveland Browns (2-2)-   Not really sure what to make of the Browns so far.  They're 2-2, but their only wins are against 0-4 teams.
Bold Prediction- Under 1000 yards on the ground this year for Peyton Hillis, even though he is a tank.

25.  Jacksonville Jaguars (1-3)-  Blaine Gabbert has shown signs of excellence along with his growing pains.  Having his second career start come against New Orleans probably wasn't fair.  He needs some weapons.
Bold prediciton- Maurice Jones-Drew's total yards this year is within 500 yards of Gabbert's total passing yards.

26.  Denver Broncos (1-3)- Don't put much weight into the loss against Green Bay, it was Green Bay.  Divisional foes will be a better Litmus test.
Bold Prediction-  Tebow starts the last 6 weeks of the year as the Broncos are out of contention early and the fans get restless.

27. Seattle Seahawks (1-3)- Whoever decided that they should not re-sign Hasselbeck and sign Tavaris Jackson should never be allowed to hold any position in football ever again.  2 point loss to Atlanta wasn't terrible, however.
Bold Prediciton-  We see Charlie Whitehurst as starter before the end of the year.

28.  Kansas City Chiefs (1-3)- After looking like the worst team in NFL history through the first two weeks, they got a win in Week 4 against the winless Vikings.  A week 5 matchup with Indy should do wonders for their confidence.
Bold Prediction- 100 yards and a TD on the ground in Week 5 for Thomas Jones.

29.  Minnesota Vikings (0-4)-  They have held a lead in every game this season and have no wins to show for it.  How on God's Green Earth can you not close out games with Adrian Peterson in the backfield?
Bold Prediction- Christian Ponder is the team's Week 10 starter after the bye.

30.  Miami Dolphins (0-4)- The team says Tony Sparano is the guy for the job, but how can they seriously say that after their much-publicized pursuit of Jim Harbaugh in the offseason?  The team is in trouble.
Bold Prediction- Sparano is fired after Week 8 after a 1-7 start.

31.  St. Louis Rams (0-4)- They made it interesting at the end of their Week 4 loss to Washington, but their -67 point differential is God-awful.  Where is Mike Sims-Walker?
Bold Prediction- Rams go 2-14 this season.

32. Indianapolis Colts (0-4)-  Who knew Manning made this much of a difference?  The defense is just not good enough to make up for their quarterback being 67 year-old Kerry Collins or wannabe-bro Curtis Painter.  Seriously what is up with that guy's hair?
Bold Prediction-  They steal a win from KC in Week 5.

5 Things I learned from Week 1 2011 (And late NFC Predictions)

So, I didn't quite get to do my NFC Preview, and now, although I think it may be a day late and a dollar short, I'm still going to give my quick NFC projections for the division winners and Wild Cards before my Week 1 observations...

NFC North: Packers 13-3... The Real Deal
NFC East: Eagles 11-5... Not a "Dream Team" but good enough to win the division
NFC South: Saints 12-4... Not going away yet
NFC West: Cardinals 9-7... Finally have a QB, and in a horrendous divison that is the difference.

Wild Cards:
Falcons 11-5... Matty Ice and company are here to stay, but have to contend with Saints
Bears 10-6... Not quite sure why everyone automatically expected them to fall off this year

Step-Up Team: Lions 9-7... One Year away, although Stafford looks good

Step Back Team: Bucs 7-9... Raheem Morris' group still plays in a tough division and didn't do enough in the offseason with all that cash

NFC Championship: Packers over Saints

Super Bowl: Packers over Patriots... First back to back since the 03-04 and 04-05 Pats (ironically)

... Now onto Week 1's 5 Things I learned, in ascending order of importance:

1.  The Packers are Still the Champs

In a matchup between the last 2 Super Bowl champs, the Packers came out swinging behind a rowdy crowd at Lambeau, piling up 21 points and 202 yards of total offense in the first quarter against the Saints.  The Saints nearly came back but the Pack buckled down on the last play with no time remaining to preserve the victory.  Aaron Rodgers and company sent a message to the rest of the league that there is no Super Bowl hangover in Green Bay and that the road to the Super Bowl still must go through the Green and Yellow.

2.  The Lions are for real

I was already drinking the Lions Kool-Aid in the offseason when I bought my Ndamukong Suh jersey, and they didn't disappoint in Week 1 against a Bucs team that went 10-6 last year, albeit missing the playoffs.  The arial attack was out and about as Matt Stafford threw for 305 yards and 3 TDs, 2 to star receiver Calvin Johnson.  If Stafford can stay healthy, the Lions may very well contend for a playoff spot with a much improved defense.

3.  Shanahan loves Hightower

When Mike Shanahan traded for Tim Hightower back in late July, he was expected to contend for carries with Ryan Torain.  But after a solid preseason in which he averaged 6.8 yards a carry (and against the Ravens and Steelers' first teams for 2 of the games), Hightower was namesd the starter for Week 1.  And the starter he was.  Hightower carried the rock 25 of the 26 attempts for the Redskins, the lone other going to rookie Roy Helu.  Hightower was able to find the end zone in Week 1, and it also seems he found a way into Mike Shanahan's heart as well.

4.  The Texans will run away with the AFC South

After Week 1's drubbing of the Peyton Manning-less Colts, and the lackluster play from both the Titans and Jags against each other, the Texans should skate to a division title.  Clearly the Clots won't be giving them problems, so it's just a matter of getting by the non-divisional games and taking care of business against the Jags and Titans, which they should.  Watch out for this team with raised confidence.

5.  Peyton Manning Really Does Matter That Much

Wow. To say the display by the Colts in Week 1 was bad is the epitome of an understatement.  And with no return in sight for Manning, the Colts are done. DONE. Kerry Collins looked like a man in his forties and was absolutely lost.  He ran for his dear life, his brittle bones somehow made it through.  I think this will be a common trend or this year, and with Colts' GM Bill Polian already talking of looking for a successor for Manning now, it may not be a bad idea to just let it go, tank it, and get Andrew Luck.  I mean, look at Aaron Rodgers...

-TA

AFC Preview

Well, I'm back after a little more than a month off.  Here we are with the first game of the season underway and I'm particularly siked, I'm getting the chills for the first time in a while.  It comes at a particularly good time for myself as I, and I'm sure a few others, need something to be happy about.  So without further ado and given the time constraints with this game here's my 2011 AFC Preview... (teams listed according to last season's standings)

AFC


North:


Pittsburgh Steelers (last season 12-4, 1st Place)

Yet again the Yellow and Black is the team to beat in the north.  The Ravens will be pesky as usual and be right in the hunt until the final week of the season, I'm sure, but the defending AFC Champs are back and I look for Mike Wallace to further develop into an elite WR in this league.
*Prediction: 11-5; 1st Place

Baltimore Ravens (last season 12-4, 2nd Place)

The Ravens are the team that could probably win 5 other divisions in the NFL, but they are in the same one as the Steelers, and it will cost them.  I think they do take a small step back as the defense growing another year older starts to show.
*Prediction: 10-6; 2nd Place

Cleveland Browns (last season 5-11, 3rd Place)

The Browns are a team that I like.  I like their quarterback as Colt McCoy has looked great in the preseason and looks like he is poised to develop into a viable starter in this league, and Cleveland's QB of the future, something they haven't had in quite sometime.  They made good strides, but aren't quite there yet.
*Prediction 7-9; 3rd Place

Cincinnati Bengals (last season 4-12, 4th Place)

The Bungals.  Well, to put it bluntly, they're in for a long year.  With a rookie QB, Andy Dalton, at the helm it is always difficult to compete.  I like his prospects long term, but the team is going to be tough to watch this year without Carson Palmer and Chad Ochocinco.  AJ Green will be a very good WR in this league, but he fell into a mess of a situation.
*Prediction: 3-13; 4th Place

East:


New England Patriots (last season 14-2, 1st Place)

Wow.  What to say about the Pats.  They were 14-2 last year, 14-2!  But couldn't do it in the Playoffs.  But,  with Tom Brady and Bill Belichick you can never neglect to mention them as Super Bowl contenders, and that doesn't change this year.
*Prediction: 13-3, 1st Place

New York Jets (last season 11-5, 2nd Place)

Well, if you ask Rex Ryan they'll win the Super Bowl.  But then again they would be the 2-time defending champs if Rex was always right.  The Jets are a very, very good defensive team and their classic "ground and pound" style will be prevalent again this year, but maybe with Shonn Greene leading the way this year.  Still New England's baby brother.
*Prediction: 11-5, 2nd Place

Miami Dolphins (last season 7-9, 3rd Place)

The Dolphins, I think, lost more than people realize on offense with the loss of both Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams, and only gaining rookie Daniel Thomas, who I think has a bright future, and Reggie Bush, who no matter what Tony Sparano says, is not a future back.  Trust me, as a Saint fan, I know.  Miami's defense isn't enough to do it and Chad Henne isn't the guy.
*Prediction: 5-11, 4th Place

Buffalo Bills (last year 4-12, 4th Place)

The Bills are just a miserable franchise and they need to move.  I'm sorry to the Bills fans, if there are any, but they aren't very good.  On the bright side though, I think they do take a step forward this year out of the basement with stability at the quarterback position with Harvard alum Ryan Fitzpatrick.  Also Stevie Johnson proves himself this year with a repeat season.
*Prediciton: 6-10, 3rd Place

South


Indianapolis Colts (last season 10-6, 1st Place)

Wow, what a difference a day makes.  Yesterday, Peyton was only out Week 1, and today he's out at least 2-3 months.  This is a surgery my dad has had 3 or 4 times and I don't see him coming back this year.  Without Manning, this is not going to be a good football team.  I don't care how many weapons they have catching the ball, without someone to throw to them and without a decent run game, they're in trouble.
*Prediction: 6-10; 3rd Place

Jacksonville Jaguars (last season 8-8, 2nd Place)

In a stunning move, yesterday the Jags released starting QB David Garrard and will start Luke McCown in preparation for the Blaine Gabbert era.  This will seriously hinder their chances this year even with the additions of LBs Paul Posluszny and Matt Roth.  Without a QB, they aren't going anywhere.
*Prediction: 5-11; 4th Place

Houston Texans (last season 6-10, 3rd place)

The Texans definitely disappointed last year after some higher expectations, but without Peyton Manning in their division, they should skate to a division title.  In maybe the weakest division now, and an improved defense with the addition of CB Jonathan Joseph formerly of the Bengals, the Texans should be in line for their first division title.
*Prediction: 11-5, 1st Place

Tennessee Titans (last season 6-10, 4th place)

The Titans added veteran QB Matt Hasselbeck to take over their offense as a stopgap until rookie Jake Locker is ready.  In this division without Manning now, he should be enough to get them second place.
*Prediction: 7-9; 2nd Place

West


Kansas City Chiefs (last year 10-6, 1st place)

The Chiefs came out of right field last year to win the AFC West with a great ground game behind Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones, and Dwayne Bowe catching TDs, they can still be competitive.  Matt Cassel is a viable QB and their defense can hold its own with Derrick Johnson, Brandon Flowers, and Eric Berry.  However, I think they take a step back.
*Prediction: 8-8; 2nd Place

San Diego Chargers (last year 9-7, 2nd Place)

With Vincent Jackson here for the full year, and Philip Rivers coming into his prime, and who I think is without a doubt an elite QB in this league, the Chargers should win this division.  They have a solid RB tandem in 2nd-year pro Ryan Mathews and the dougie-ing tank Mike Tolbert.  Their defense will be solid again.
*Prediction: 10-6; 1st Place

Oakland Raiders (last year 8-8, 3rd place)

With a perfect divisional record last year at 6-0, the Raiders still finished a mediocre 8-8, and weren't able to make the playoffs.  They will be average again with the loss of CB Nnamdi Asomugha, although Run DMC Darren McFadden is here to stay.
*Prediction: 7-9, 3rd Place

Denver Broncos (last year 4-12, 4th place)

With all the talk of Tim Tebow surrounding the Broncos, they made the smart move and went with the proven Kyle Orton.  They have Brandon Lloyd on the outside who had a breakout year last year, but without much of a defense and it remains to be seen if Knowshon Moreno can be the guy they drafted him to be.  They're in for a long year as well.
*Prediction: 4-12; 4th place

In short:

North: Steelers 11-5
East: Pats 13-3
South: Texans 11-5
West: Chargers 10-6

Wild Cards:
Jets 11-5
Ravens 10-6

AFC Championship: Patriots over Chargers

Look out for my NFC Preview coming tomorrow or Saturday!

Philadelphia's Christmas in July

Well, July 29th was a day to forget for fans of Philly rivals, including myself, but undeniably a day to rejoice in the City of Brotherly Love.  As most people around here know, and many others, the Philadelphia Phillies acquired right fielder Hunter Pence from the Houston Astros in exchange for their top pitching and hitting prospects, Jarred Cosart and Jonathan Singleton, respectively, and two other minor leaguers.  However, this was after news broke that the Philadelphia Eagles had come out of nowhere to sign highly-coveted free agent cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, formerly of the Oakland Raiders.  Philadelphia virtually dominated Twitter from the early evening onward on Friday.

Now it's time to break down each move.

This pretty much sums up Philly's emotions on Friday.

We start with Asomugha.  Many Jet fans, and some Cowboy fans as well, now sit in the corner with their arms crossed and a frown painted across their faces after losing the Nnamdi Asomugha sweepstakes.  With one signing, Friday belonged to the Birds.  Already having acquired a cornerback on Thursday in Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie via a trade with Arizona that sent Kevin Kolb to Phoenix, the Eagles were widely considered set at the cornerback position.  Most thought the Eagles would look to aid the linebacking corp, which still remains a big question mark, or even bolster the safety position after acquiring DRC.  Wrong.  The Eagles added Asomugha, making their corners virtually unstoppable on paper.  

Now before Eagle fans start crowning themselves Super Bowl champs, there are some concerns, although maybe minute.  With 10% of their allotted salary under the new cap now devoted to Asomugha, it remains to be seen if they keep Asante Samuel, who was the only real cornerback they had coming into this offseason.  Will they want to deal him, which would still leave a great CB tandem, to have more available cash to address their other needs? Early reports indicated the Eagles intending to keep the Pro Bowl corner, but we shall see.  

Another thing to watch is the consistency of newly-acquired Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.  He is a guy who can make a spectacular play one down, as noted by the fact that he returned three of his four interceptions last year for TDs, and get totally torched on the next.  Having said that, he is a young player and still has a lot of room to grow, and learn to utilize his blazing speed to keep up with any receiver in the game.  The addition of Asomugha does, however, make DRC the best nickel back in the league, and a great luxury to have in such packages.

Now to the Alpha of the bunch.  Nnamdi Asomugha, who only had 33 passes thrown his way in 2010, and a mere 27 thrown his way in 2009.  To put it in perspective, this is about half the amount of the next-least.  Let's face it, the guy is good, real good.  But how much stock should we put in this stat?  Sure he's good and opposing QB's don't like to throw his way, but we should note that he only plays one side of the field, the defensive right side.  This is the blind side of right-handed QBs, which dominate the NFL, which allows Nnamdi to make a play on the receiver without the QB being so alert to it.  This is no knock on Asomugha since he makes these plays because he's good.  But we need to realize that since this is the QBs blind side, more often than not the team's #1 receiver lines up to his right, or defensive left.  This means Asomugha is usually left covering the team's #2.  In such a situation, why would you want to throw Asomugha's way if he is on a number 2?  There is usually a mismatch on the other side.  However, I mean no disrespect to Asomugha and his abilities, but this is rather to show that there may indeed be some chinks in this guy's armor.

The expectations have been set.

If the Eagles do indeed keep Samuel, they will undoubtedly have the best corners in the NFL.  I am reluctant to say the best secondary because they are young and unproven at safety.  They have promise at free safety in the young Nate Allen, but strong safety remains shaky as right now's starter could be rookie Jaiquawn Jarrett.  Had they had an established set of safeties they would blow away teams like the Packers and Saints who have complete DB corps, albeit not nearly as good overall at corner.  No matter how good your team seems, the parity in the NFL always leaves the door wide open for an array of teams to win; they still have to play the game.  Having said all of this, if the Eagles corners perform like what they are fully capable of doing, no team will be comfortable passing against them, or should have much success.  Paired with an explosive offense lead by Michael Vick, Desean Jackson, and Lesean McCoy, this should be a defense that will cause major headaches for opposing quarterbacks.  They now should jump into the conversation for the NFC's best team alongside Green Bay, New Orleans, Atlanta, and maybe Chicago.

As for the Philadephia Phillies, offense was their main concern moving toward the trade deadline.  Their pitching has been dominant behind Roy Halladay, Cole Hamels, and Cliff Lee (even the young Vance Worley), although they have limited their opponents to the least amount of runs of any team in baseball.  Saying their pitching is good wouldn't begin to do them justice.  Philadelphia fans though worried that their offense may not be good enough to stand up to opposing pitching come October.  Well, in addition to their recent successes at the plate, they added another weapon in Hunter Pence, formerly of the Houston Astros.  Pence is batting .308 with 11 home runs and 62 RBIs thus far this season.  He is that right-handed bat that adds depth to the Phillies' lineup alongside guys like Utley, Howard, Rollins, and Victorino.

It honestly doesn't get any better than Roy Halladay.

Really, even as a Mets fan, there's really nothing negative that can be said about this team now.  They were already the best team in the National Legaue prior to this trade.  The only thing, maybe, is that they gave up their best hitting and pitching prospects.  But really, who cares? They were able to keep the young Domonic Brown AND Vance Worley, who could be a viable starter in this league.  When you can get a young, proven talent like Pence, while all but assuring yourself as the NL representative in the World Series, you do what you can to get him.  Who cares if you trade some of your future to get him if that means winning now?  Trust me, I am not a Phillies fan and don't plan on converting any time soon, but you can't help but like what their organization is doing to put the best possible product on the field.  This is not a good team, but a great team.  Whoever faces them in the World Series, whether it be the Yankees or Red Sox or whoever, should any of them get there, better come prepared because this team is for real.  If they weren't the favorites before, they are now I'd argue.

Pence is the answer.

Congrats on your day Philly.  You sure did work.  Now it's time to collect some hardware because anything short of a ring, especially out on the diamond, will be considered a grave disappointment.  Especially in that crazy city.  I can tell you one thing though, Eagles, my Saints will be ready.  Hotlanta will be ready.  And that team in Green Bay, the defending champs, isn't going anywhere anytime soon.  You have your work cut out for you.  Do your darnedest.

-TA

"Football is Back"

For those of you who may be living under a rock, which thanks to that Geico commercial we now know is possible, the NFL and the NFL Players Association have reached an agreement on a new 10-year Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).  10 years.  This is what I believe is the most underrated aspect of the entire deal.  This means that we will not have to endure another grueling lockout like this one for at least another 10 years, and hopefully longer.  To get it out of the way, thank the dear 8 lb 6 oz infant Baby Jesus, sitting there in his little golden diapers and don't even know a word, or the Jesus in a tuxedo t-shirt, for those of you who wish to be formal, yet like to party.

For those of you who didn't quite get the reference, and then some. (Some adult language)

This week will be a frenzy of trades and signings, whether they be of free agents, draft picks, or undrafted players, but one thing is for sure, it will be a hot stove, and entertaining at that.  In addition to Sunday's MLB Trade Deadline, this weekend can really be Christmas in July for sports fans.  I can almost assure you that SportsCenter, and ESPN in general, will probably be the most exciting things to watch this week, regardless of the what MLB games are being played.

While I watched ESPN today and listened to callers on ESPN Radio, I can tell that I am not the only one overjoyed by today's news.  This, more than anything else, has, in my opinion, solidified that even though baseball may be America's pastime, football is America's here and now.  At work today nothing could bring me down off of the high I was on because, no matter what I had to do, I knew that come August and September, there will be football, and that was more than enough for me.  I also think it is safe for me to say that much of America shared my elation today, as news broke that there would be, without a shadow of a doubt, an NFL season.

Kind of what was going on inside of many of our heads.  Well, maybe not to this degree, but you get the point.

Another positive to note is that it seems increased crime will have to wait at least another ten years to rear its head.  In an interview with ESPN's Sal Paolantonio back in May, Baltimore Ravens' linebacker Ray Lewis claimed that evil would arise if there weren't a season this year.  He said that crime would increase if they took away their game.  Really, Ray? Really? So you're telling me that those people who would tend to commit crimes refrain from doing so because they have football to watch on Sundays?  Oh, maybe he meant that the NFL players without jobs would turn to crime!  No, wait that is equally as ridiculous.  Sorry, Ray, no matter how you spin it, you're statements are ludicrous.  For a guy who is widely respected amongst NFL players, and who most would consider at least a semi-intelligent human being, that was something that should have been caught in the filter between his brain and mouth.  I wonder how his foot tastes right about now, I'm sure he knows.

You can fast-forward to about the 2:25 point.

Unlike the NHL, which lost many fans during its season-long lockout in 2004-05, I would venture to say that this lockout may have helped the NFL.  While that may sound absurd due to the frustration that the two sides have caused throughout the entire process, think about it for a second.  No games were lost other than the Hall of Fame Game, which is merely exhibition.  Very few preseason games are even televised on cable, let alone watched.  Sure it is the first true game of the season, but who is going to boycott any football because the Hall of Fame Game was cancelled?  The fact of the matter is that since so many people were upset at the notion that the lockout would affect the regular season, seeing that the entire schedule will remain largely intact will ease the troubled mind.  This is a simple example of "you don't know what you have until it's gone".  I think that logic in and of itself is why the NFL will be back and better than ever.

My title here, "Football is Back", seems to be the common phrase being echoed across the sports stratosphere today.  However, for something to be back, I argue that it had to have left in the first place, which is why I put it in quotation marks.  I ask you, dear reader, did football ever leave in the first place?  Here we are on July 25th, with a new CBA in place, about to begin free agency and training camp.  But, let's think back to last year on July 25th, where were we?  Only the Cowboys had reported to camp (on the 24th), along with only the rookies from Cleveland, New England, and San Diego (on the 25th), with the rest of the league reporting on the last couple days of July.  So, basically, we're right on track minus the free agent and rookie signings, which will be taken care of throughout this week. 

While players weren't participating in OTAs (Organized Team Activities) during the summer and getting treatment from team trainers and doctors, let's not forget that these players are professionals.  They know that it falls on themselves if they do not show up in shape when the lockout is lifted.  Folks, they've been working out, and let us remember that day after the judge's ruling that temporarily lifted the lockout, players were allowed to report and they received their playbooks.  The only difference is that they've been wearing their own sweats throughout the summer instead of sponsored team apparel.  

The media buzz during this lockout was so immense that some people grew tired of hearing about it because there was so much false hope and so many rumors that it began to teeter on obsession.  However, regardless of how crazy the coverage got, we listened.  The reason we got upset was because we didn't want to get excited without proper reason.  But despite all of the headaches the lockout brought, the NFL was always there, in our hearts and in our minds.  And due to that fact alone, it never left.

So, ladies and gentlemen, I have one final question for you.  Are you ready for some football?

I'm getting goosebumps.

-TA

...ps look at this goal scored by the beautiful Alex Morgan yesterday.  

Isn's she just wonderful?

Why The US Women Didn't Choke

After having a day to gather my thoughts and let my emotions settle down from yesterday's World Cup loss to Japan, I have come to a consensus that seems to differ from the mainstream media and angry callers on ESPN Radio.  The more I think back to the actual way the game was played, the more I can strengthen my belief that our women did not choke.

Wambach (left), the Silver Ball winner for 2nd best player, and Solo (right), the Golden Glove winner for best goalkeeper, have no reason to hang their heads.

We start in the first half.  From the first minute the US was out for blood, they led the attack when Lauren Cheney decided to shoot rather than pass to a wide open Abby Wambach in front of the net.  These chances were plentiful in the first forty-five minutes, but the US failed to cash in on these opportunities.  However, it was evident that the United States was the much better team, that much is certain.  Despite the failed attempts in the first half, and the beginning of the second for that matter, the US struck first blood when Megan Rapinoe launched a perfect ball up to the beautiful Alex Morgan, who rifled a shot past the goalkeeper into the right side of the net. It seemed then like the US was well on its way to its first World Cup since 1999.

However, destiny had other plans.  They simply ran into a team that was playing for much more than themselves in the Japanese.  A land ravaged by earthquakes and tsunamis, a few players on the Japanese team weren't even sure they'd be able to compete due to the amount of work that they had to take care of on the home front.  With an entire nation's prayers and emotions on their back the Japanese were able to do just enough to win.  They capitalized on a couple of US defensive miscues when it mattered the most.  Much like my beloved New Orleans Saints two Super Bowls ago, they played for the people back home, and they needed it.

They were able to tie it at one on a botched clearing attempt by the US back line.  When the gorgeous Alex Morgan found Abby Wambach's golden head in extra time, it seemed that yet again destiny was on their side, but she proved fickle.  The Japanese were able to score off a corner kick, which wound up deflecting off of a US defender, buckling goalie Hope Solo, as she had no play to make.  Solo did her part the entire game, as she was hung out to dry by her defense on two instances that resulted in goals.

Then, the game came down to penalty kicks.  Now, I have a problem with penalty kicks for one reason.  That reason is that penalty kicks do not tell us who is better.  If you were to play out the penalty kicks ten times, each team would probably win five times.  It comes down to a guessing game.  When the shooter runs up to the ball, the goalie has to make a decision on which way to dive, and if he or she guesses wrong then there is no time to recover; the ball has already found its home in the back of the net (or missed the net completely in the case of Carli Lloyd, the US midfielder who shot high over the net on the second shot).  Yes, penalty kicks are compelling and yes, they increase ratings, but no real skills are involved.  The best goalies, and teams for that matter, don't always win, as was the case on Sunday.  That's why I think they should either go back to the old "Golden Goal", sudden death style in their extra time, such is the case in hockey's overtime and in the NFL, where the first score wins.  Such is the case in the hockey playoffs in which shootouts are left out, I feel the overtimes should continue in soccer until the first goal is scored in major tournaments like the World Cup and Olympics.

The Japanese goalie guessed right more than Hope Solo in those situations, which doesn't mean they deserved to win that game.  The US still to this minute have not trailed the Japanese, and controlled the vast majority of the game.  This is why our women didn't choke.  They weren't outplayed.  They were the victims of a tiebreaker that didn't reflect their play or skill; they were victims of destiny.

Something tells me Abby Wambach and Alex Morgan will ensure a different result next year in the Olympics in London.

-TA