NFL Thread

[Andy G.]

This season's NFL thread is gone for some reason. Did I miss something?

Anyway, congrats to you and your Saints bravos. That was a really great game on Monday. I don't know why the Falcons didn't allow Matt Ryan to put the offense on his back the way they did against the Ravens. Against Baltimore, Turner ran the ball 17 times for only 39 yards. He was shut down then much like he was Monday night against the Saints. In the Ravens game, though, Matt Ryan threw 50 passes, completed 32 of them, and had two touchdowns with no interceptions. We didn't even give the passing game a chance on Monday.

Our defense looked awesome though. The Saints' defense did as well, of course, but our gameplan in that game was much more aggressive than it usually is so that was a lot of fun to watch.

I hope the Saints and Falcons meet again in the playoffs. It will be a lot of fun to see who wins the third matchup of the season.

[bravos4evr]

Thanks Andy....

That game was weird.... I really thought it was gonna be a 34-28 type of affair (cuz i figured that neither defense would stop the others passing game well enough to stop scoring) but I was wrong(again)... I really do hope for an NFC Champ. game matchup.... Should be one hell of a postseason!

[luvdembravos]

WHO DAT? :headscratch:


Oh, it was Marshawn Lynch :D

[Wahoo]

I am probably the only one but I would love to see the NFL abandon the division format and just stick with two conferences with every team in the conference playing each other once over the course of the season and the top six with the best record making the postseason tournament. I hate that the Seahawks were even in the playoffs let alone playing a home game.

[bravos4evr]

WHO DAT? :headscratch:


Oh, it was Marshawn Lynch :D

Fudge you in yer fudgin fudge place...... our damn defense played like hammered dog crap.... arghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

[Wahoo]

Fudge you in yer fudgin fudge place...... our damn defense played like hammered dog crap.... arghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

They really did. I was shocked by that.

[Dreamscape]

I'm getting very excited for the future of Dallas, especially when I watch something like this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMoGmZQHGT8&feature=player_embedded). I think Jason Garrett gets it. Wade Phillips was a nice guy, but you need to be part drill instructor as a head coach, not the uncle you wants to be your buddy.

Now, getting the players to facilitate this turnaround is another question. The offensive line needs to be blown up and the secondary as well. But I think the right coach is in place.

[Dreamscape]

By the way...
http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/comment/11/2011/01/5639bf306064a406a89c3ce6a93caf17/340x.gif
That's funny.

[luvdembravos]

By the way...
http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/comment/11/2011/01/5639bf306064a406a89c3ce6a93caf17/340x.gif
That's funny.



Tracy Porter will never live that one down ...

[The Rap]

Watching this game put me in shock. Lynch sucks and then goes off with 67 yards for a TD? Did you see all the missed tackles or "oles" on the way. I feel for Nick because the Saints defense was so good all year and then didnlt show up at all for this game.


Meanwhile, my Jets came through beating Peyton finally but now face Brady next Sunday. Should be a good one.

[luvdembravos]

Meanwhile, my Jets came through beating Peyton finally but now face Brady next Sunday. Should be a good one.

Should be a good one for Brady and the Patriots....they own the Jets :)

[luvdembravos]

The Eagles-Packers game was bittersweet for me. On the one hand, I wanted the Eagles to win because I was fairly confident that Atlanta could take Seattle at home. The Packers next week? I'm not so sure. :headscratch:


But on the other hand, I always love it when a Philadelphia team loses, especially after the PA played Rocky getting the crowd jacked up with one minute to play.... then the interception and silence ... that made my night!!!!

I have NO use for Philly fans who have to be the most obnoxious fan base in the country!!! :)

[Hobbes]

The Eagles-Packers game was bittersweet for me. On the one hand, I wanted the Eagles to win because I was fairly confident that Atlanta could take Seattle at home. The Packers next week? I'm not so sure. :headscratch:


But on the other hand, I always love it when a Philadelphia team loses, especially after the PA played Rocky getting the crowd jacked up with one minute to play.... then the interception and silence ... that made my night!!!!

I have NO use for Philly fans who have to be the most obnoxious fan base in the country!!! :)
Since I live here, nothing is better than watching the Eagles lose. :D They always interview the Eagles fans coming out of the Linc after a big loss, and I love to see them crying in their beer.

[Wahoo]

Since I live here, nothing is better than watching the Eagles lose. :D They always interview the Eagles fans coming out of the Linc after a big loss, and I love to see them crying in their beer.

Always fun to watch Philly and Mike Vick lose. Guess we will find out next year if Vick has revived his career.

[The Rap]

I don't think NE owns the Jets. The Jets always give them a good fight and have won a fair amount of games considering the difference in talent. People poo poo Sanchez but the kid seems to have something good going on in clutch situations. Of course I am fearful because Brady is playing better than ever and I include 2007 when he broke all those records.

[Andy G.]

They "always" play them tough? Have you forgotten the 45 to 3 beat down from a few weeks ago after Rex Ryan talked all that crap about the Patriots?

[Andy G.]

I can't wait for Saturday night! The Playoffs are so exciting. I hate that the Falcons have to play the Packers. They're very good. I do believe many fans and pundits underrate the Falcons drastically though. I can't really blame someone for picking the Packers in this game. They're hot. They're talented. They're well coached. All that.

The Falcons earned their #1 seed though. People obsess over rankings in total yards, ignoring the things that the Falcons do week in and week out which have allowed them to be the only team in the NFL to rank in the top 5 in both scoring offense and scoring defense. The Falcons are great at taking the ball away and not giving it back. They sustain drives with an excellent third down percentage and this is reflected in their time of possession. They rarely make mistakes, and they force their will on opposing teams by dictatcing the tempo of the game.

That said, I won't even be all that upset if we lose. The Falcons have shown this year that they are a team on the rise and are built for longevity. Their window is just opening, and shouldn't be be closing for quite some time.

[Dreamscape]

The Jets can talk and talk and talk and talk...often, with vulgarities. But then, didn't Antonio Cromartie have four children who were three-years old (I suppose from four different women?) during Hard Knocks? Just sayin'.

But the Pats know the best way to get at someone is through the subtle art of trash talk. Wes Welker made 11 foot-related references (http://deadspin.com/5732917/wes-welker-makes-11-references-to-feet-in-one-press-conference) in a recent press conference. Somewhere, a brash coach had to place a pillow over his lap.

[Wahoo]

The Jets can talk and talk and talk and talk...often, with vulgarities. But then, didn't Antonio Cromartie have four children who were three-years old (I suppose from four different women?) during Hard Knocks? Just sayin'.

But the Pats know the best way to get at someone is through the subtle art of trash talk. Wes Welker made 11 foot-related references (http://deadspin.com/5732917/wes-welker-makes-11-references-to-feet-in-one-press-conference) in a recent press conference. Somewhere, a brash coach had to place a pillow over his lap.

That was great. That is how a clever man talks trash. I hope the Jets get obliterated.

[The Rap]

I do remember the 45-3 meltdown. But I consider it an anomaly. I think all the trash talk is 90% for the fans. I don't care that Rex is talking because Belichick would be doing his thing whether Rex talked or not. I am a Jets fan but still pick the Patriots to win becasue of ne guy; Brady, who is as hot as anyone can be.

[luvdembravos]

But it appears most New Yorkers also think Ryan's a douche. ESPN conducted one of its nationwide polls this week and the question was something like would you rather have a coach with the personality of wet rag (Belichick) or a trash talker like Ryan. The poll had the most lopsided results that I've seen in awhile as every state (even NY and NJ) voted overwhlemingly for a coach like Belichick.

[luvdembravos]

Brady, who is as hot as anyone can be.

Sounds like something a woman would say ... or you. ;)

[The Rap]

New Yorkers, like anyone else, opt for a winner, thus Belichick would win. Doesn't mean anything.

What is funny is I knew someone would jump at what I said about Brady. I ahve 3 ex-wivesand my current fiancee who is a former model half my age for any of that to bother me.

[luvdembravos]

New Yorkers, like anyone else, opt for a winner, thus Belichick would win. Doesn't mean anything.


So in a way, you just admitted Ryan is a loser.

I ahve 3 ex-wivesand my current fiancee who is a former model half my age for any of that to bother me.

What can I say? You're a stud!

[bravos4evr]

a hand model maybe....

[Andy G.]

NFL Network is trying pretty hard to combat the perception of tonight's game by all those people on the Packers' bandwagon today. They even said as much.

[Hobbes]

NFL Network is trying pretty hard to combat the perception of tonight's game by all those people on the Packers' bandwagon today. They even said as much.
Should be a good game either way.

[Andy G.]

Wow. Instead of being able to kick a field goal and go into the half down by 4, Ryan gets sacked and throws a pick six on the next play to make us down by 14. That sucks.

[Andy G.]

Ouch.

[Dreamscape]

This Aaron Rodgers kid is pretty good.

[Hobbes]

Should be a good game either way.
I was mistaken.

[Andy G.]

I was mistaken.
So was I. That was brutal.

[bravos4evr]

eeesh... looks like misery all around on here this year.....

I picked Packers Steelers superbowl before the playoffs started. I don't see anyone beating green bay in the nfc, but can the steelers beat the pats?

[Dreamscape]

Matt Ryan has already been added (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/Matt-Ryan-Newest-member-of-the-Can-t-Win-the-B?urn=nfl-308144) to the Playoff Choke Artist list.

Unfair, sure. But that's the nature of the NFL. Until you win it all, you're part of the really good players who can't win the big game. Now, it's a team game and not many Falcons did Ryan any favors yesterday, but than...it wasn't like Ryan played a great game either. In fact, he had a bad playoff Farve-esk game. He'll get more chances, but get used to seeing the "choke artist" label applied to him for at least for another year.

[The Rap]

I felt good watching the Packers kill the Falcons last night and then realized it was because of the Atlanta fans located here and their incredible venom for my team, the Jets.

[Andy G.]

Matt Ryan has already been added (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/Matt-Ryan-Newest-member-of-the-Can-t-Win-the-B?urn=nfl-308144) to the Playoff Choke Artist list.

Unfair, sure. But that's the nature of the NFL. Until you win it all, you're part of the really good players who can't win the big game. Now, it's a team game and not many Falcons did Ryan any favors yesterday, but than...it wasn't like Ryan played a great game either. In fact, he had a bad playoff Farve-esk game. He'll get more chances, but get used to seeing the "choke artist" label applied to him for at least for another year.
Yeah, I saw that coming before they even played the game. I didn't think Ryan would play poorly, but I knew that if the Falcons lost people would be all over Ryan for not having won a playoff game yet. And he didn't play well, so that just makes it worse.

[luvdembravos]

Matt Ryan has already been added (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/Matt-Ryan-Newest-member-of-the-Can-t-Win-the-B?urn=nfl-308144) to the Playoff Choke Artist list.

Unfair, sure. But that's the nature of the NFL. Until you win it all, you're part of the really good players who can't win the big game. Now, it's a team game and not many Falcons did Ryan any favors yesterday, but than...it wasn't like Ryan played a great game either. In fact, he had a bad playoff Farve-esk game. He'll get more chances, but get used to seeing the "choke artist" label applied to him for at least for another year.

Well he certainly deserves the choke artist label considering how Green Bay's offense marched down the field at will all night. I mean, Ryan was so bad, Green Bay's punter didn't have to punt at all last night. The blame squarely falls on #2's shoulders for allowing all those 80+ yard drives.

[Dreamscape]

All valid remarks...though Ryan was horrible so it's not like he played the part of the rivaling gunslinger.

It's why I hate the idea that quarterbacks somehow have records. Now, quarterbacks played a major role in the fate of their teams, but they aren't kicking field goals, batting down passes from the other QB, blocking on returns.

[bravos4evr]

Wow!! Good job Jets in taking out those dadburn uber hated pats!!!! Hooray!!!!

Gonna have a heck of a time beating the Steelers though...

[The Rap]

Well the Jets did beat the Steelers recently and it will be a tough game. I think the guy that is truly unreal is Revis. It is someone every QB should avoid throwing at.

[luvdembravos]

It's a no-brainer for me. Go Green Bay!

[Wahoo]

I'll say this. I was pulling for the Steelers and the Bears. Don't really care for Rex Ryan but they are one well-coached football team. They are going to be contention for years. He runs his mouth too much for a coach but his team is a helluva team.


Packers have no Hoos but the Steelers have 2 so my allegiancy will be to the Swords Creek Native, Heath Miller and James Sharper. Go Hoos!

[The Rap]

That loss hurt but I am proud of the Jets. If they would have won it would mean the road they went through to get to the Super Bowl would mean they would have beaten 1) Peyton and the Colts and 2) Brady and the Pats and finally 3) Big Ben and the Steelers. Alas it wasn't to be. My real belief is that the Jets were like in a coma in the first half looking tired and lethargic while the Steelers built a huge lead. Then with their backs against the wall the Jets responded and dominated the Steelers in the 2nd half.

[bravos4evr]

It was a good try at a comeback. But the Jets had too much a of a problem stopping Mendenhall IMO.... (he got 121 yards and it's hard to win playoff games giving up that many yards to one RB).

They played well though so no shame there..... I'm excited to see an old timey kinda Super Bowl!! I mean how "football" does Packers Vs Steelers sound? :-)

[alaskabravesfan]

The Jets are the anti-Braves...unprofessional louts. I was glad to see the Steelers send them home today.

[The Rap]

baloney. unprofessional louts?

[Dreamscape]

Well, we can start with Antonio Cromartie. Will that idiot ever shut up?

[alaskabravesfan]

The buck has to stop with Rex Ryan. Unfortunately, it all seems to start with him, too...

I don't know. In all honesty, he has turned the Jets from a little, red-headed stepchild into a legitimate NFL threat. I just don't care for his mouth. And the rest of his team seems to follow his lead with great gusto.

I'm no NFL expert, so maybe you all can help me. Who originally said,

"When you get to the end zone, act like you've been there before."

I think the Jets would be a lot cooler if they just shut up and played good football.

[luvdembravos]

That loss hurt but I am proud of the Jets. If they would have won it would mean the road they went through to get to the Super Bowl would mean they would have beaten 1) Peyton and the Colts and 2) Brady and the Pats and finally 3) Big Ben and the Steelers.


The Packers beat the #1, #2 and #3 NFC seeds - all on the road. They"ll beat Pittsburgh too as long as Aaron Rodgers doesn't get knocked out of the game.

[The Rap]

I like the way you left the QBs out with your response when they were the key to what I wrote. Some people have to get a life meaning who cares what football players say or brag about? Cromartie is a terrific cornerback who has much bigger problems than his mouth, most being in his pants with like 9 children from as many mothers. My only concern right now is that the Jets re-sign their wide receivers, as that is so crucial to Sanchez's growth as he has a comfort zone, and their defensive backfield because Cromartie may be nuts but when Revis stops the other side cold you know the other one is going to get picked on so its good to have a looney back there.

BTW, what cost the Jets the most this season happened in the very beginning of the year when Chris Jenkins went down.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

The buck has to stop with Rex Ryan. Unfortunately, it all seems to start with him, too...

I don't know. In all honesty, he has turned the Jets from a little, red-headed stepchild into a legitimate NFL threat. I just don't care for his mouth. And the rest of his team seems to follow his lead with great gusto.

I'm no NFL expert, so maybe you all can help me. Who originally said,

"When you get to the end zone, act like you've been there before."

I think the Jets would be a lot cooler if they just shut up and played good football.

I can't say who the first to say that about acting like you've been there was, but the first person I heard say it was Coach Bryant on his Sunday coaches show. One of the Bama kids was a bit too exuberant after scoring a TD and Bryant said something along the lines of "That fellow needs to just hand the ball to the referee and act like he's scored before."
As for the Jets, I've been a fan since Joe Willie signed there. Ryan and his boorish behavior and complete lack of class have put me off them for now. In my eyes, he's an embarrassment to the franchise based on his crude behavior on "Hard Knocks." Even his mother was embarrassed. The owner should've sat on that loudmouth act as soon as he viewed the program. It made the whole organization look bad.

[The Rap]

Obviously you didn't like his cursing. Truth is that is the way that is real for most teams in the NFL with the only real difference being it was the Jets on Hard Knocks and the Jets being exposed. The only fault I find would be that Ryan and the players weren't told to hide their true selves, then again I am too much into honesty to think like that.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Is it "honest" to ignore any type of standards of behavior? Sure the program was an HBO product but Ryan had to understand this was an excellent opportunity to show the Jets in a great light. The F-bombs and street talk used by Ryan on seemingly every occasion only made him look like an ignorant loudmouth and suggested that type of disregard for decency is the Jets standard. I'm not a prude, Michael, I cuss frequently myself. I do make an effort to curb the impulse when I'm in a position to cause embarrassment to my family or my employer. Maybe that notion is only considered here in the South.

[Andy G.]

The Jets weren't the first team ever featured on Hard Knocks. That was the second or third season of that show. Rex Ryan is an a-hole. Most people who aren't Jets fans can see it, though there are some unbiased people who actually think he's got some charm, which they apparently find endearing. These people are gullible and thus prone to mistaking false humility for sincerity. I and many other people see past his charade, where he pretends to not think of himself as the most important person on the face of the earth. I strongly believe that his entire persona will lead to the inevitable crashing and burning of his career and the organization he coaches for. I will enjoy watching it happen.

I also enjoy taking every opportunity to point it out to people now while the bandwagon is full, so that I will be able to say "I told you so" to all the foolish Rex Ryan supporters.

[bravos4evr]

Well I reckon it's SUPERBOWL pick time!!!

I'm going with a final score of:

Packers-31
Steelers-28

I reckon the Pack have a late game drive leading to a game winning field goal inside the red zone. I just think it's their year.

[The Rap]

Andy, your post is dripping with venom making it sound illogical. Better spend your time on other things than hoping Rex and the Jets are going to fall apart.

[alaskabravesfan]

I don't know about the final score, but I think that the Packers will win and will cover the spread of +3.

[Andy G.]

Andy, your post is dripping with venom making it sound illogical. Better spend your time on other things than hoping Rex and the Jets are going to fall apart.
How is it illogical? I'm rooting for Rex Ryan to fail. I don't like him, and I think he sucks as a leader. I don't care if my words sound venomous to you. I'm just being a sport fan, cheering for my heroes and rooting against the villains. In my mind, there may not be another sports figure that's as large a villain as Rex Ryan right now. I mean that both literally and figuratively.

[bravos4evr]

How is it illogical? I'm rooting for Rex Ryan to fail. I don't like him, and I think he sucks as a leader. I don't care if my words sound venomous to you. I'm just being a sport fan, cheering for my heroes and rooting against the villains. In my mind, there may not be another sports figure that's as large a villain as Rex Ryan right now. I mean that both literally and figuratively.

Oh come now there's always the Yankees and the Patriots (and The Cowboys!) ;-)

[bravos4evr]

Well I reckon it's SUPERBOWL pick time!!!

I'm going with a final score of:

Packers-31
Steelers-28

I reckon the Pack have a late game drive leading to a game winning field goal inside the red zone. I just think it's their year.



Not bad eh? I only missed it by 3 points!

Congrats Packers!!! It was a pretty entertaining game once the jitters passed !

[Andy G.]

Not bad eh? I only missed it by 3 points!

Congrats Packers!!! It was a pretty entertaining game once the jitters passed !
I predicted 28-24 Packers right before the game. I thought I had done well with my prediction. Nice job.

[luvdembravos]

The Falcons certainly gave up a lot of early round 2011-12 draft picks to land Julio Jones. :headscratch:

I hope he's worth it.

[Andy G.]

The Falcons certainly gave up a lot of early round 2011-12 draft picks to land Julio Jones. :headscratch:

I hope he's worth it.
I do too, but I trust Dimitroff and Smith. I think they've earned that.

Our offense is going to be insane with Jones. I will be very disapointed if there's no football this year, because it would probably mean that we don't get to see this offense with Tony Gonzalez.

[bravos4evr]

The Saints were the big winners of the first rd IMO! Two top 15 players and they filled two needs. Got another bookend,in Cameron Jordan, to go with Will Smith on the D line and a Mark Ingram to replace Reggie Bush (whose salary spikes and will prolly be let go)! All they gave up was next years first rounder! STEAL!

[Dreamscape]

Something seems so bust about Ingram.

Happy to see the Cowboys go with offensive line help. They need to probably get another lineman who can develop into a starter along with secondary help and I think the draft will go pretty well.

[bravos4evr]

Something seems so bust about Ingram.

Happy to see the Cowboys go with offensive line help. They need to probably get another lineman who can develop into a starter along with secondary help and I think the draft will go pretty well.

IMO Reggie Bush was a bust... IMO, Ingram's advantage is that he is a down hill runner who doesn't HAVE to put up 1500 yards and carry the offense in New Orleans.

[Andy G.]

If the Falcons sign Ray Edwards (http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/13682485/28923848) when free agency comes around, this will be a very successful offseason. I don't know who else will be available, but Edwards would be perfect.

There's still the issue of signing our offensive lineman who are free agents, and also adding depth to the linebacker core (especially if Stephen Nicholas leaves in free agency), but the Falcons have a pretty solid team in terms of depth. A pass rushing defensive end to go with Abraham and the presence of Julio Jones will be huge..

Apparently, there's a question of whether or not Edwards will be a free agent though.

Any pursuit of Edwards, 26, could be tricky because his status as a free agent is tied to a new collective bargaining agreement or to the rules the league imposes as part of re-opening for business after the lockout. A five-year veteran, Edwards can only be an unfettered veteran if there is an agreement which reduces the number of accrued seasons for unrestricted free agency to four years.

Four years was the prior requirement, but the uncapped season in 2010 raised the level to six years, and the league could decide to play under those guidelines again.

Edwards was offered a one-year restricted free agent tender, at $2.521 million, by the Vikings, but obviously would prefer to be unrestricted. If he gains the latter status, the Falcons could chase him and pair him with right end John Abraham, the 11-year veteran who enjoyed a resurgent campaign in 2010 with 13 sacks.

[The Rap]

Tell you the truth the guy that excites me most is the Giants' Jason Pierre-Paul the new freak of the NFL.

[luvdembravos]

Redskins traded McNabb last night and reportedly are about to send Haynesworth to New Engalnd. They only got mid-round picks in return but I like the fact they're getting rid of the "drama" that was such a distraction last year.

[Wahoo]

Redskins traded McNabb last night and reportedly are about to send Haynesworth to New Engalnd. They only got mid-round picks in return but I like the fact they're getting rid of the "drama" that was such a distraction last year.

Yeah I've been impressed with the moves the Skins have made to this point. Of course the best possible move you can make is to completely tank this season and get dibs on Andrew Luck.

[Middle Man]

Yeah I've been impressed with the moves the Skins have made to this point. Of course the best possible move you can make is to completely tank this season and get dibs on Andrew Luck.

Shhhh! Don't give away our strategy. Of course when we open the season with Grossman, it may be obvious to everyone.

Seriously, I'm reeaaalllly happy that they unloaded those two - the best thing they could accomplish this week. I'm especially thrilled that Albert is going to NE since the guy in the office next door is a HUGE Pats fan and he was ridiculing me mercilessly just yesterday about Haynesworth - "Hey how many draft picks are you going to have to include to get rid of him?" etc. Of course this morning, it was a different story - "if anyone can make him play, it's Belichick..." and so on. I forwarded him that Youtube video where he just laid on the ground and watched the play.

[Wahoo]

I am betting Carolina is going to be stiff competition for that #1 pick again.

[The Rap]

But Carolina has a few ofensive weapons while the Redskins are making going for the #1 pick a bit too obvious. Philly pulled off something awesome when they got the CB I really wanted to match up playing opposite Revis.

[luvdembravos]

But Carolina has a few ofensive weapons while the Redskins are making going for the #1 pick a bit too obvious.

While I have no illusion that the Redskins are a playoff team, I like the fact that they dumped a lot of veterans and two drama queens. Signing Stephen Bowen from the Boys and Barry Cofield from the Giants along with bringing in a slew of WRs shows me that aren't exactly going to lay down this year.

Until they get their stuff together, I'll be pulling for the Falcons.

[Wahoo]

I'll join you in that...in case I move to Atlanta. Cowboys don't know what the hell they are doing.

[Dreamscape]

The Cowboys know exactly what they are doing.

Nothing.

[The Rap]

They seem to be collecting DB's. I think the guy who will take a big step up this year is Romo because the running attack isnlt as good as in the past and henow hs Austin, Dez and Witten to throw to.

[Wahoo]

I fully expect the Cowboys to finish 8-8. The culture is changing but the talent isn't there yet. I think this is also Dez Bryant's last year as a Cowboy.

[Dreamscape]

I think this is also Dez Bryant's last year...as a sidekick because he will be in the top five in receiving yards in 2012.

[Wahoo]

More likely the top 5 players most likely to owe you money.

[The Rap]

Dream, as a Cowboy fan what is your take on Jerry Jones? Is he just a meddling control freak owner or is he the right man to run a football team?

[Wahoo]

Passionate owner with just enough football knowledge be dangerous but not enough to be a competent GM. See this year: rpayer is completely crap.

[Dreamscape]

One thing I love about Jerry is he loves the team, the organization, and wants them to succeed so much. It also hurts him. But I think there is a medium ground between what you have asked. He's not a meddling control freak. But he needs someone he trusts completely to coach the team. He's also not the right man to run a football team. He needs to hire a general manager and let him tackle that job.

[luvdembravos]

Saw a little bit of Deion Sanders' HoF acceptance speech ... and he's still full of it. :rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

[Wahoo]

Indeed he is. He shoulda been a car salesman.

[BFH]

Anyone else excited for football or did the lockout kill it for everyone? Figure everyone's still invested on the Braves right now.

I'm somewhat excited for football.

My Texans made some exciting changes on defense bringing in Wade Phillips and switching to the 3-4.

Not so excited about Mario Williams as an OLB as he's looked quite pedestrian in the role so far...but JJ Watt looks good to me and they finally did something about their secondary bringing in Johnathan Joseph and Danieal Manning. Don't think they'll be great...but at least they should give the Texans offense a chance to build a lead instead of forcing them to chase a lead every game.

[Andy G.]

I'm very excited for the Falcons. They improved greatly in the offseason. Julio Jones is going to be a huge threat at wide receiver, and Harry Douglas finally looks like he's going to break out in the way we expected him to before his knee fell apart two years ago.

Ray Edwards is a massive improvement for us at defensive end. Being able to move Kroy Beirmann down on the depth chart helps out depth as well. We've got young players who are now a year older and more experienced on defense. Curtis Lofton (2nd round pick), Sean Weatherspoon (1st round), William Moore (2nd round), Thomas Decoud (3rd round) Peria Jerry (1st round) and Corey Peters (3rd round) are all entering their prime. Meanwhile, Brent Grimes, John Abraham, Ray Edwards and Dunta Robinson are all getting it done week in and week out.

On offense, we're returning pro-bowlers at quarterback, half back, full back, tightend and wide receiver. We lost our right guard but have the depth and talent to replace him. Plus they're not only talking but actually showing their willingness to move to a more explosive style of offense. You never know how things will play out in the NFL, but yeah, I'm excited.

[bravos4evr]

The Saints should be better on defense and better on an already world busting offense. I'm kinda hoping they win it all again. In fact i think the 2 best teams in the NFC are the Saints and Falcons. (all this Philly talk is malarky, Vick is going to underachieve this year as he always has once teams remember how to contain him)

[luvdembravos]

In fact i think the 2 best teams in the NFC are the Saints and Falcons. (all this Philly talk is malarky, Vick is going to underachieve this year as he always has once teams remember how to contain him)

How about Green Bay?

[Wahoo]

The Cowboys don't know what the heck to do. Playing for Andrew Luck?

[Dreamscape]

The Cowboys don't know what the heck to do. Playing for Andrew Luck?
It's like I was telling my friend...I can't get a good read on the Cowboys this year. I can see how they could be really good or really bad. My guess is either 6-10 or 10-6.

[bravos4evr]

How about Green Bay?

OOps, forgot bout them lol! Let me re-phrase the 3 best teams in the NFC are the Packers the Saints and the Falcons!

[BamaAla]

Anyone else excited for football or did the lockout kill it for everyone? Figure everyone's still invested on the Braves right now.

I'm somewhat excited for football.

Same. I'm lukewarm about it at this point.

I'm not a die hard NFL fan, but I'll watch the Titans games and cheer for them. Time doesn't allow me to be fully devoted to that many things at once and the Braves and the Tide are much higher priorities for me. I tend to like fantasy football more than anything else NFL.

I am excited to see if C.J. lives up to that monster contract and how Locker develops (I don't think Hasselbeck will start 16 games.) I also want to see how the former Tide players do. Jones and Ingram got thrown into pretty good situations...Darius not so much:eek:

[Wahoo]

It's like I was telling my friend...I can't get a good read on the Cowboys this year. I can see how they could be really good or really bad. My guess is either 6-10 or 10-6.

I am leaning towards 6-10. We have no depth on the o-line or in the secondary either. In other words, our two biggest weaknesses from last year remain weaknesses. How does that happen?

[Dreamscape]

I actually like our offensive line a lot. I think it's better suited for the type of football Garrett wants to play where the line is moving and playing very athletically. The line of last year was best suited for Barber, though the latter was a shell of his former self. This line is going to do wonders for Felix. I even like the depth. It's unproven, but it got a lot of first-team experience during the preseason and Romo was largely upright. Derrick Dockery should add a capable backup.

The secondary is much improved. I think Alan Ball will end up providing a lot of depth at CB and the safety position isn't the weakness it has been for some time. But it is up to Jenkins to perform and Scandrick to continue to improve.

My bigger worries are finding that consistent outside pressure to compliment Ware (though I do love that Ware is going to move around) and keeping the starters at offensive skill positions healthy. I like Murray, but he only played two preseason games. I like the potential of Ogletree, Holley, and Harris...but you're talking about a guy with ten catches and two others with none. I think once week one is passed, this is a position the Cowboys may look at upgrading with a veteran wide receiver, though pickings are very slim (Brian Finneran and Brandon Stokley?). If Felix, Austin, or Bryant go down for any extended time, I just don't see the Cowboys competing. But if they do...I can see them hitting ten wins a lot easier.

Guess we'll see where they are in New York next Sunday.

[luvdembravos]

Awesome 9/11 tribute before the Redskins-Giants game. That flag was HUGE!

[Wahoo]

Man Stillers got bitch smacked by the Ravens much as I expect the Cowboys will tonight.

[luvdembravos]

Man Stillers got bitch smacked by the Ravens much as I expect the Cowboys will tonight.


I'm definitely not a Ravens fan but my workplace is full of Steeler faithful..I'm going to love the silence tomorrow :)

Falcons didn't look good today. :(

[Wahoo]

I'm definitely not a Ravens fan but my workplace is full of Steeler faithful..I'm going to love the silence tomorrow :)

Falcons didn't look good today. :(

Such is the NFL. Bengals look better today than they did all last year.

[luvdembravos]

Yeah, one never knows what to expect in the NFL.

The Redskins turned over half their roster, went younger and look better than they have in years. Sure, it's only game one and the Giants are really banged up but for once, it looks like the Skins have a "plan." I don't think they'll end up with the first overall draft pick in 2012. :p

[Wahoo]

Well Tony Romo single handedly lost that game well..he and the bonehead who left the middle open on that punt in the 4th.

Come on Andrew Luck.

[BFH]

Yeah...I was leaving grandma's place with the Cowboys handling things just fine.

Got home in time to see the blocked punt and the score tied. Was completely shocked. Looking like juggernauts in the first half then completely falling flat on their faces down the stretch. Disappointing as a football fan in general to watch a team fall apart like that.

Otherwise, shocked to see the Steelers put up such a poor performance in all facets. Props to the Ravens for handing them their butts for not showing up to play, though.

Cam Newton was a surprise to me as well. Thought he'd struggle in his debut, even against a shoddy Cardinals D. Good for him, but he's still got a lot to prove against bigger and better teams.

On the Texans front, I'm not going to go and get ahead of myself with winning big over a Peyton-less Colts squad. Was really satisfied with the defense taking advantage of it, though. It definitely is their division to lose this year.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

From the "Told ya so" column....anyone think Cam Newton will be drafted early, now?
Seriously, you can't do much more than marvel at his debut performance and wonder if Mike Shula has enough talent as a QB tutor to develop Cam into more such efforts. I'm sure he'll have many tough days at QB in the future, but based on his stats, that doesn't prove out! Newton may be about to change some opinions. It all depends on how well he picks up what his coaches give him. As I stated months ago, I'm not a fan of his, but he looks like something special to me. Time will tell.

[luvdembravos]

Eagles definitely aren't a Dream Team.

[LeeTro]

A first half lead for my Vikings is like 2nd and 3rd with no outs for the Braves: it sounds so good, yet we all know nothing good will come out of it...

[Wahoo]

Eagles definitely aren't a Dream Team.

Lol nope. I think douche Vince Young jinxed em which is fine with me.

[bravos4evr]

At least I had some good news today cuz the Saints won. It's beginning to look like they might be back to being elite again.... Then again, they can't really stop anyone from scoring......

[Wahoo]

At least I had some good news today cuz the Saints won. It's beginning to look like they might be back to being elite again.... Then again, they can't really stop anyone from scoring......

Yeah their offense is definitely high-octane. I love watching them operate but you all have New England Patriots' disease: no defense anywhere to be found.

[bravos4evr]

I'm hoping that that they can "work in progress" the defense like the year they won it all. Kinda get it working at the right time.

[FrankEC]

ESPN is reporting that Al Davis is dead.

[The Rap]

Yup and so is General Franco

[luvdembravos]

ESPN is reporting that Al Davis is dead.

Too bad his actions the past 25 years seemed to overshadow the previous 25. Although Davis wasn't the Raiders "head coach" on the field [except for a short period], everyone knew he was calling all of the shots in Oakland for the past ~50 years. It will be interesting to see how that team develops now that Mr. Davis is gone.

Just Win Baby

[luvdembravos]

The Eagles could come back in today's game (but I doubt it)...but no matter what happens, I've got to think Andy Reid's days are numbered in Philadelphia. That team looks horrible.

[Hobbes]

The Eagles could come back in today's game (but I doubt it)...but no matter what happens, I've got to think Andy Reid's days are numbered in Philadelphia. That team looks horrible.

Life is pretty crappy right now if you are a Philly sports fan.

[luvdembravos]

Some dream team.

[luvdembravos]

NFL East isn't that good this year.

[Wahoo]

Life is pretty crappy right now if you are a Philly sports fan.

But awesome if you are everyone else. :)

[The Rap]

I think one of the 5 things most wrong with the Eagles is the intense and constant focus on Vick when there are so many talented stars on that team

[The Rap]

I doubt I have seen a more pathetic exhibition of offense than the Cowboys showed tonight. Dream, you wrote earlier that you like the OL they now have. I think Romo is taking out contracts on them just about now.

[Dreamscape]

I didn't think it was the line that was the real problem. It was the game calling plus Romo making bad decisions/throws that truly became the problem. Some of the balls Romo threw were just terrible.

The defense not being able to get a stop also hurt quite a lot.

[Wahoo]

I expect major changes in the offseason for the Cowboys.

[Andy G.]

Man, the Saints helped out the Falcons yesterday. That's just not a game you expect them to lose. Not trying to ruffle your feathers bravos. The division race did become extremely interesting after that game though.

Falcons started off looking bad. They still are in a lot of ways. Our offensive line is pathetic. Hopefully with injured players coming back and the experience for our young guys, we can improve over the second half. They've definitely looked a little better recently, but just a little.

Mike Mularkey was all sorts of confused at the beginning of the year. The front office wants us to be more explosive, so that we're keeping up with the rest of the league and we can prevent the type of drubbing we got in the playoffs last year, but Mularkey's never built an offense to play that way before. We've got the pieces, it's just the wrong system. I like Mularkey, I just don't like him for this team. We've got awesome talent at every skill position, and I don't feel like he utilizes as well as some other coordinators would. But that's not to say that I'm not looking for the big things out of the Falcons in the second half, because I am.

[bravos4evr]

I was worried the Rams game would be a trap game after the 62-7 whooping we put on the Colts. Another winless team, blah blah blah. They played like crap and they deserve what they got.

However, I still feel like that the Saints can play with any team in the nFL (they proved this in their very close loss to Green Bay on opening day). I just hope they can get their ****e together on defense.... If they can just kinda stop the run, the Saints are a Super Bowl quality team.

[The Rap]

I agree that the Saints are one of the elite teams but believe they have to get their running attack up to par. Ingram is having his difficulties and they were counting on him

[bravos4evr]

IMO, they need to get their dadburn run defense in gear! Ingram was doing okay til he got hurt...

[Wahoo]

Saints-Packers in the NFC Title Game. Eagles aren't even gonna make it past the first round .Lol.

[bravos4evr]

I honestly think the Packers could run the table this year and break the Dolphins record. They aren't really weak anywhere except MAYBE in the defensive backfield a bit....

[The Rap]

You have a point but in the NFL anything can happen at any time

[Wahoo]

I honestly think the Packers could run the table this year and break the Dolphins record. They aren't really weak anywhere except MAYBE in the defensive backfield a bit....

I was thinking the same thing but their defense has been much worse this year. They have given up 23+ points in 6 out of 8.

The Turkey Day game against the Lions is gonna be a good one.

[The Rap]

The real plus for the Packers is that Rodgers is playing the best QB we have witnessed in a while so they will outscore you despite what their defense does and that isn't too shabby anyway.

[Andy G.]

The big game is only a few days away now, bravos! I can't wait to watch the Falcons take first place and send the pitiful Ain'ts back to New Orleans. :p

[bravos4evr]

I hope Julio Jones gets eaten by a bear! hmmmph

[The Rap]

C'mon brothers calm down. A lot will be determined by who shows up meaning has their game ready to battle. If Ingram was ok I would say the Saints will win. Otherwise I think it is truly up in the air and will make for a great game.

[Andy G.]

Ingram Smingram. So long as Julio takes the proper precautions to avoid the all-too-possible bear attack, the Falcons got this one in the bag. ;)

[Andy G.]

The bear was spotted just this past Monday in New York (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nx1CfQo0fik). One can only hope that he won't make it down to Atlanta before Sunday.

[bravos4evr]

I have the situation well in hand. as we speak 4 tons of meat are being air dropped around Julio's home! He is guaranteed to be mauled but good!

On a serious note, I think that the game will come down to turnovers. The Saints have played very well against the good teams they have played. (remember that Green Bay game opening night?)

It also is going to matter if the Saints run defense can stop anyone.... so far they've been...kinda crappy. But I don't think Atlanta can stop the Saints offense either.

I predict a 38-31 victory for the Saints!

[Andy G.]

I have the situation well in hand. as we speak 4 tons of meat are being air dropped around Julio's home! He is guaranteed to be mauled but good!

On a serious note, I think that the game will come down to turnovers. The Saints have played very well against the good teams they have played. (remember that Green Bay game opening night?)

It also is going to matter if the Saints run defense can stop anyone.... so far they've been...kinda crappy. But I don't think Atlanta can stop the Saints offense either.

I predict a 38-31 victory for the Saints!
Yeah, in honesty, I'm not gong to guarantee a win. This is easily the most underrated rivalry in football, but I get it. If both teams continue winning for another year or two, people will start looking at this game like the Ravens-Steelers or Jets-Patriots. The games are always close. Both games last year were decided by three points.

That said, the Falcons might surprise a lot of people on Sunday. Our defense is vastly underrated, according to DVOA. We rank 5th in total defense and 4th in both rushing and passing defense. The Saints are 23rd in total defense. They're 24th in rushing defense, which does not bode well for them when they're facing Michael Turner.

The Saints also rank 22nd against opponents' #1 receiver but 7th against the #2 receiver. They're also ranked 25th against opposing tight-ends in the passing game. Roddy White/Julio Jones and Tony Gonzalez can, according to these statistics, be expected to perform pretty well against the Saints.

As well as our defense is playing right now, the Saints' offense is obviously among the elite. They rank 3rd in offensive DVOA. The Falcons rank 13th.

The Saints' offense has tremendous balance (assuming the playcalling utilizes that balance), but I don't suspect they'll have as much success running against the Falcons as they have in previous weeks. Our front seven is pretty stout.

I also expect our defensive coordinator to send lots of pressure, just like we did on MNF last year (when we held the Saints to 17 points in a loss). We will take away the running game and try to force Brees into mistakes. Our hopes will hinge on our ability to put pressure on Brees and to take away the big play.

This game will either be a shoot out like you said or the Falcons will win decidedly. I personally disagree with your assessment. I think our defense can stop the Saints' offense, but I'm pretty sure that the Saints won't stop Michael Turner.

[bravos4evr]

we will crush him like grape....in fact, I expect he wil end up in a little bundle on the sidelines being catered to by angels.... :-p

[The Rap]

a little too much confidence in Turner

[Andy G.]

a little too much confidence in Turner
The Saints are dead last in the NFL allowing 5.3 yards per carry. Michael Turner averages 4.4 yards per carry. The Saints will be playing without Jonathan Vilma.

I'm not guaranteeing a win, because it's the Saints and I never have that much confidence when the Falcons are playing them. Plus, anything can happen. Still, I don't think I'm being less than objective when I say that it shouldn't be difficult for Michael Turner to run against this defense.

[bravos4evr]

Now that there was a FOOTBALL GAME!!! Geaux Saints wooooo!!!!!!

[Andy G.]

Now that there was a FOOTBALL GAME!!! Geaux Saints wooooo!!!!!!
Really exciting game. Congrats man. I'm gonna go weep in a corner for a few hours. :(

[Dreamscape]

44-7...wow.

I never know which Cowboys will show up. What a schizophrenic team, starting with the QB. When Good Tony is playing the entire game, the Cowboys can beat anyone. When Bad Tony hits Good Tony over the head and takes his place...the Jets game...the Lions game...these things happen.

Good time for Good Tony to come to, though. Next three games are at Washington and home for the Dolphins, and on to Arizona. Definitely don't want to get ahead of myself here cause the 'Boys are good at destroying everything good in my life, but get on a roll, when five straight, and face the Giants at 8-4 and one of the top contenders in the NFC. It can...and probably should...happen.

Of course, the Cowboys will lose two-of-three.

[The Rap]

doubt anyhing will matter much because the Packers will run the tableand win theor 2nd SB in a row. They are much too talened all the way through and led by the best QB in the game.

[Wahoo]

The Packers have hardly looked invincible. They do remind me of the 2007 Pats though. Unstoppable offense but a forgettable defense. They will lose this year. It may not happen in the regular season but it will happen. Giants and Bears are the only remaining challenges on the regular season schedule.

[The Rap]

I didn't say the Packers were invincible but they are clearly a couple of levels better than any other team. This is the "parity style" NFL and any team can beat another on any given Sunday.

[Agent-X-]

44-7...wow.

I never know which Cowboys will show up. What a schizophrenic team, starting with the QB. When Good Tony is playing the entire game, the Cowboys can beat anyone. When Bad Tony hits Good Tony over the head and takes his place...the Jets game...the Lions game...these things happen.

Good time for Good Tony to come to, though. Next three games are at Washington and home for the Dolphins, and on to Arizona. Definitely don't want to get ahead of myself here cause the 'Boys are good at destroying everything good in my life, but get on a roll, when five straight, and face the Giants at 8-4 and one of the top contenders in the NFC. It can...and probably should...happen.

Of course, the Cowboys will lose two-of-three.

Things are gonna be rumbling down in Texas tomorrow... I haven't been very keen on Miami this year, but right now they are not a team to overlook. If bad Tony locks good Tony in a locker before the game, I would not be surprised to see Dallas lose this one.

Of course, there is uncertainty with the Dolphins at QB. Moore has been playing really well and will have to show he can do it against a better team.

[The Rap]

I watched the game yesterday and came away with the impression that Moore is a future star QB. I don't know that much about the kid and wonder how sttrong an arm he has.

[The Rap]

The Packers have hardly looked invincible. They do remind me of the 2007 Pats though. Unstoppable offense but a forgettable defense. They will lose this year. It may not happen in the regular season but it will happen. Giants and Bears are the only remaining challenges on the regular season schedule.

I think the Packers D will make you eat your words.

[Wahoo]

I think the Packers D will make you eat your words.

Not with the Giants still looming and at least the Saints in the playoffs. If the Bears had Cutler I'd give them a shot. The Packers D flat out sucks this year. Eventually that will cost them a game.

[Andy G.]

Looking forward to the playoffs, but I want to share this with you guys and get your reactions. This (http://espn.go.com/new-york/nfl/story/_/id/7429623/the-city-atlanta-worst-sports-town-america) was written by Rob Parker on ESPNNewYork.

It's not fair.

And, we know, it really shouldn't matter.

But Atlanta -- the city, not the team -- doesn't deserve a playoff victory over the New York Giants on Sunday.

It has nothing to do with football. It's deeper than that.

Without question, Atlanta is the worst sports town in America.

If the New York Yankees are the standard for excellence in baseball, Atlanta is the epitome of the bottom of the barrel when it comes to fan support.

Wild card: Giants vs. Falcons

Big Blue is back in the playoffs. Atlanta is the foe. Giants Center » Blog »
• 50 Greatest Giants Photo Gallery

Hence, the Atlanta Falcons shouldn't be allowed to win and reward some of the worst fans in the country. They just don't get it. They are both missing in action and simply not passionate enough to appreciate their team winning in the NFL playoffs and moving on to the next round.

Giants fans -- even with a fresh Super Bowl in their memories after the 2007 season -- are living and dying with their team. Football is a part of their lifestyle, it's who they are. On Sunday, every single moment of the game will be pure agony until the clock shows all zeroes and the Giants have secured the victory.

Your typical Atlanta fan -- who is probably from another city since so few are actually from ATL -- will be preoccupied with something else -- perhaps even picking peaches. Is it peach-picking season? They might not even be sure what time the game is on.

In fact, at some point, they might ask a friend -- filled with sweet tea -- at a pork-saturated barbeque, "Are the Falcons playing today?"

Pathetic.

But it's Atlanta, known as Hotlanta.

It's not for their passion when it comes to sports, just the weather. Oh yes, it gets hot down there.

But when it comes to sports, no city is as cold to warm up to its home teams. And it's just not when it comes to the NFL and the Falcons.

All of their teams have suffered from terrible support.

Just ask the Hawks. Atlanta's young and exciting basketball team has had problems selling tickets over the years -- even during a pretty thrilling playoff run a few years back. It's not like they play in a dump on the bad side of town.

The Philips Arena downtown is sweet, a cool place to see a game and be a part of the city as well. Yet, on most night you can get a section to yourself.

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Choosing the 50 Greatest Giants was a big challenge. ESPNNewYork.com rose to the occasion. Top 50 Photo Gallery Rank 'Em »

Even back in the old Omni days when I covered the Knicks for the Daily News, there were always more Knicks fans in attendance than Hawks fans -- and they had Dominique Wilkins, the Human Highlight Film. Shame more didn't see him play in person.

Sadly, there always seemed to be empty seats at Turner Field when the Braves were in the playoffs as well. You still have to wonder how fans got tired of the Braves winning. They had the best pitching staff in Major League Baseball for a decade and won a World Series back in the '90s. Fans should not have missed a pitch during that run.

Worse is the lack of passion the fans showed after an epic Braves collapse this season. Looking like a shoo-in most of the season, the Braves, who were 8½ games up in the National League wild-card race to start September, gave up their postseason spot on the last night of the season. The Braves went 9-18 in the final month, including a five-game losing streak to end the season. It allowed the St. Louis Cardinals to get in instead en route to winning the World Series.

Heads should have rolled. Instead, Braves first-year manager Fredi Gonzalez wasn't under fire from the fan base and will be back this coming season. Again, most probably didn't even notice.

Enter the NHL.

It's bad enough Atlanta got another hockey team, the Thrashers, after losing one already, the Flames in 1980. But it happened again -- the Thrashers are now in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Winnipeg? How embarrassing. Atlanta is once again hockey-less. Why? Terrible fan support.

The NHL wanted to believe Atlanta is a major-league city, a city that could support all four major sports. But it can't. Atlanta is now the first city in the NHL's modern history to lose two hockey teams. So sad.

That's why it would be a waste for the NFL gods to allow the city of Atlanta to lukewarmly enjoy a postseason win.

The city and its lame fans simply don't deserve it.

I know ESPN is useless. I don't watch ESPN. I don't visit their website. I'm not surprised to see something stupid come from ESPN. I found out about this at a Falcons blog. I'm also not only bringing this up because I'm from Atlanta (sorta kinda...not really but close).

I just couldn't believe how bad this was. Does ESPN really not even pretend to have credibility anymore? This is really, really bad. It's not that it's necessarily wrong to criticize Atlanta as a sports town. He mentions one of the biggest reasons why it's not a great sports town, because so many of it's residence aren't even from here. But that's not the problem. It's just that he's supposed to be credible. He writes for ESPN and apparently does that morning show on ESPN 2 where he gets to argue with Skip Bayless. To write this is to abandon any semblance of journalistic integrity. I don't know, I was just really surprised by it.

[bravos4evr]

What bothers me isn't the criticism of Atlanta as a sports town. It's the stereoyping stuff . It's the same kinda stuff that got Rocker in trouble. It's the same kinda stuff that would get most reporters fired. Not to mention his saying that the Falcons "don't deserve to win"...

I hope you kick the snot out of the Giants. Like really really bad. Like 35-7 bad.

[Wahoo]

The Falcons are clicking at the right time. I expect them to beat the Giants fairly easily.

[Hobbes]

The Falcons are clicking at the right time. I expect them to beat the Giants fairly easily.
The Falcons may very well beat the Giants. But at least my G-men beat your Cowgirls. :p

[Middle Man]

Looking forward to the playoffs, but I want to share this with you guys and get your reactions. ...

Idiot.

...Without question, Atlanta is the worst sports town in America...

This is repeated over and over. I don't get it. If you look at his own stats, the Braves and Falcons are both right in the middle of the pack as far as attendance. And as we all know, there have been times in the past when both teams were closer to the top than the middle. If Atlanta is the worst sports town, what are all those other cities that finish below Atlanta year after year in attendance?

[The Rap]

As a New Yorker I don't like what the guy wrote because he ignores something I think that affects the whole South. The religion throughout the South has always been college football. There are reasons why Alabama, Auburn, the Florida teams and spo many others have powerhuses with long traditions of success.

This can happen anywhere BTW.I rememebr living in Boston in '87 and walking into a sports cards store. The city was fanatic about their Red Sox and the hockey Bruins and probably the most about the Celtics. But this pre-Belichick and Brady so no one paid any attention to the Patriots.

Kids in the South are weaned on college football and I doubt that will change much but if we want the attention then we have to bring home the bacon a few times.

[Andy G.]

Congrats on the Saints' victory bravos. They'll go out to SanFran next week with an opportunity to get back to the NFC Championship game.

My hope, obviously, is that if they do play the NFC Championship game, they'll be hosting the Falcons in the Superdome. Third time's a charm?

Let's not get ahead of ourselves though. First the Falcons have to get past Hobbes' Giants, which seems like a 50-50 proposition to me right now. If they do get past the Giants, it's off to Green Bay and the Packers next week. We have an uphill battle to say the least.

[bravos4evr]

Yeah, y'all have a tough road ahead that's for sure. Honestly I hope you get to the Champ. game. I'd much rather face ANYONE in the dome than face Green Bay in the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field in Jan.!!

[Hobbes]

After a shaky start the Giants looked very solid today. It wound up being a very lopsided game. Those two failed 4th-down conversions seemed to take the wind out of the Falcons.

Headed off to what will be a very tough game at Green Bay, although they played them very tough in their last matchup.

[Andy G.]

Congrats Hobbes. I'm heartbroken, but I still like the coaching staff and quarterback we have on our team. The truth is that our running game isn't nearly as strong as the analysts on t.v. make it out to be, and our offensive line needs to upgraded big time. Our pass rush is also particularly weak.

The Falcons are a team with talent at a lot of skill positions, but a sever lack of production from their offensive and defensive line. We will also benefit from bringing in an offensive coordinator that does not run his offense based on outdated concepts and schemes.

When do pitchers and catchers report?

[bravos4evr]

Wow, I thought that game would be much closer. Now I have to say i hope the Giants go and beat the Packers. If the Saints handle the 49er's it would set up a home game for the Saints in the dome. (and I honestly don't think anyone can beat the saints in the dome)

[The Rap]

As a longtime Giants fan Andy I have to admit that my thinking before the game was it all depended on which Giants team would show up. If the defensive minded, run oriented and Eli led team would be "up" then the Falcons wouldn't have a chance. Your assessment of the Falcons is right on as they have a few stars at skill positions but are severely lacking in the "down and dirty" aspects of the game.

I can't see the Giants beating the Packers who have so many options. Of course, they are hurting at one OL position which might be the leak the Giants pass rush will sniff out.

I do believe however that if the Saints play at home then Bress is unstoppable. Thankfully the Super Bowl isn't played on anyone's home field.

[bravos4evr]

Lovely, a Broncos win and another week of overhype for football jesus...........

[Dreamscape]

Lovely, a Broncos win and another week of overhype for football jesus...........
I choose to think of the good side. Steelers are gone.

I have grown to hate the Steelers because until a few years ago, no one wore their horrible colors in central Virginia and now, it's running about third behind the Cowboys and Deadskins. So sick of them.

[bravos4evr]

Yeah, well they were the only team I thought could beat the Patriots... Broncos won't. Ravens.....maybe, Idk.... I don't think Flacco can pull off the upset.

[Wahoo]

The Falcons may very well beat the Giants. But at least my G-men beat your Cowgirls. :p

Actually I officially renounced my fanship back in November. I am no longer a fan of the Dallas Cowboys.

Congrats to your boys though, Eli has become quite clutch. Mike Smith and Matt Ryan may be developing a Romo like rep if they can't win a playoff game next year.

[The Rap]

Eli has grown so much since he won the Super Bow that he has become unrecognizable. All the seeming timidness is completely gone and exhudes more confidence which take the team along and the other players would walk through a wall for him. It is one of the reasons why my other team is in such a quandary about what to do, or not to do, with Sanchez.

[Andy G.]

Eli has grown so much since he won the Super Bow that he has become unrecognizable. All the seeming timidness is completely gone and exhudes more confidence which take the team along and the other players would walk through a wall for him. It is one of the reasons why my other team is in such a quandary about what to do, or not to do, with Sanchez.
One year from now, the Jets will fire Rex Ryan and commit to moving on from Mark Sanchez.

Rex "foot fetish" Ryan will never win a Super Bowl or have sustained success. Mark Sanchez is a mediocre quarterback. The Jets' are the most pathetic organization in football right now.

[bravos4evr]

I think Ryan has Wade Phillips Syndrome. Good D-coodinator, but can't win as a head coach

[Wahoo]

One year from now, the Jets will fire Rex Ryan and commit to moving on from Mark Sanchez.

Rex "foot fetish" Ryan will never win a Super Bowl or have sustained success. Mark Sanchez is a mediocre quarterback. The Jets' are the most pathetic organization in football right now.

Yep. Exactly this.

[The Rap]

To me this is all just "hate Rex" baloney. He isn't a bad coach but he rubs everybody the wrong way because of his big mouth and his sizeable girth. He is the FB version of Chris Christie. I think the real problem with the Jets was the off season as they lost many key players while the subs failed. You can't blame Rex for Santonio Holmes as Holmes already did the same insanity at Pittsbugh and was dumped there. Rex probably thought to himself that by making him a captain the new responsibilities woud speed up the maturation process which was what Holmes needed. Plaxico played well and his role might increase next year. A big mistake is having Mark Brunell as the backup QB. I understand the tutor aspect of Brunell helping Sanchez but I think it is aready time when to let the kid go and then bring in a back up who will provide a real threat to the QB.

[Andy G.]

You absolutely can blame Rex for Holmes, and you can blame the general manager to. Nobody else wanted Santonio Holmes, because most other teams realize the importance of locker room stability in the NFL. The Jets, and their pompous, idiotic coach, thought they'd have no trouble handling Holmes' attitude, because they're that arrogant. And then Rex makes the guy a captain?

Rap, how long has it been since somebody built a consistent winner in the NFL with a coach like Rex Ryan. The dude just doesn't get it, and it's not that complicated. You can't harbor the type of atmosphere that leads to your third string quarterback calling the entire team selfish, and you can't whore yourself out to the media at every possible chance. You can't use trash talk as your prime motivating factor, and you can't force your players to answer questions from the media about the ridiculous comments coming out of your mouth. You just can't do it and expect to be successful.

I've said it since day one. I didn't waiver when they went to conference championship games and I'm certainly not going to waiver now. Rex Ryan is a horrible, horrible coach.

[Dreamscape]

You can't blame Rex for Santonio Holmes as Holmes already did the same insanity at Pittsbugh and was dumped there.
That reads like a reason to blame Rex actually...

[Dreamscape]

By the way...this bit about players anonymously calling out Mark Sanchez for being lazy and regressing last year is just another example of how Rex Ryan has lost the lockerrroom. It's ridiculous that players are actively putting this stuff out there, even if they do it cowardly. This is the kind of material that should stay in the locker room and I do think Ryan's loudmouth bravado doesn't help. Players see a coach unwilling to shut his big mouth and they think it's fine to do the same.

I'm not saying Ryan's a bad coach, but he definitely is a stupid one.

[BFH]

Usually I stay out of football discussions because its easily my "second" sport...but as a more or less innocent bystander (Texans fan since their inauguration. w00t w00t) here's my take on Rex Ryan.

1. He is an absolutely obnoxious human being. That has nothing todo with his coaching ability or his fetish in the bed room or even his weight. The dude is just a jerk. Period.

2. He is one hell of a defensive mind. Gets a heck of a lot out of his guys on defense and probably made superstars out of some folks who probably wouldn't be in a different town or system. I mean...not that you need to coach up guys like Revis, but there are others I'm sure that have blossomed under him.

3. Maybe he can't be blamed completely for the Jets face planting this season...but yet, he Is the team's coach and somewhat responsible for it's production. Mark Sanchez, mediocre or just untapped potential or whatever, regressed under Ryan's watch. Great coaches don't allow that. Sanchez showed early promise...but has gone backward since then. Maybe Sanchez is lazy and not mature enough...but that's also a head coach's responsibility, imo, to keep your guys focused on what it is to be a professional. Ryan obviously did not show him how to be one with the way he consistently runs his mouth in the media.

Ultimately, you are what you are taught. Ryan promotes and harvests a circus-like atmosphere in the public eye. Regardless if that's how he is in the locker room or not, he has portrayed to his players that being immature and obnoxious is perfectly fine. That lack of discipline is why the Jets have begun such a downward spiral. No talent in the world can overcome bad leadership and a lack of commitment.

For that allowing that to happen...he's just an unintelligent human.

Just my thoughts.

[The Rap]

I am not saying Rex is a great coach but he is one of the best defensive minds in the game. As far as Sanchez goes I think part of the problem is there is no one else on the team that can play. The backup to Sanchez the past two seasons is Mark Brunell. I fell for the line that Brunell could tutor Sanchez but now I realize if the Jets had a decent #2 it would push Sanchez harder to improve which has given Mark a false sense of security and maybe an illusitory view of his own abilities.

Rex making Holmes captain is probably because Rex thought making him captain would give the WR greater responsibilty and a pride with his new position. That isn't crazy thinking because it is used by so many in different facets of life in general.

[Dreamscape]

Rap, I'm getting the feeling Rex could say 2 + 2 = a giraffe and you would defend it.

[Hobbes]

Wow, that Saints-49ers matchup was some game.

[Dreamscape]

Wow, that Saints-49ers matchup was some game.
Hard to believe another game this postseason could match it.

[bravos4evr]

:( I cannot believe how our defense just fell apart in the last 5 minutes like that....

[The Rap]

Nick, just check out what Brady is doing to the Broncos so maybe the Saints are lucky they won't have to face him. Dream, why would I care about what you think when the bottom line is this; Rex has been Jets coach for 3 years where he made the playoffs for the first two of them and will now simply admiyt to the mistakes he has made and grow to an even better coach.

[bravos4evr]

I think Brees would light up the pats backfield like xmas.

[Hobbes]

Yeah baby! Discount double-choke.

Great game by the Giants.

[bravos4evr]

Yeah baby! Discount double-choke.

Great game by the Giants.



What really sux is I reckon the Saints would've won it all if they could have just remembered how to play defense. Home game for the nFC and superbowl in a dome? lights out... ARGHHHH!!!!

[Hobbes]

What really sux is I reckon the Saints would've won it all if they could have just remembered how to play defense. Home game for the nFC and superbowl in a dome? lights out... ARGHHHH!!!!
Yeah, I'm happier that the Giants opponent is the 49ers instead of the Saints.

[Wahoo]

I think Brees would light up the pats backfield like xmas.

And just what do you think Brady would do to the Saints secondary?

[bravos4evr]

And just what do you think Brady would do to the Saints secondary?

The Saints secondary isn't too bad when in zone coverage. it's when they are man to man they are vulnerable (as are most secondaries). It's why I didn't understand why Williams kept blitzing when they needed to contain the yardage and force the Niners to use up clock.

I'm not saying it would've worked, but when you are facing Vernon Davis and Crabtree and they have to go 80 yards twice.... well after you blew it the first time I wouldn't try the same damn thing again!!! I honestly would've preferred the dreaded PREVENT defense to the rushing 6 strategy.....

[Wahoo]

Ya have to blitz when you can't get to the quarterback otherwise. And the Saints secondary is mediocre at best. They are reliant on turnovers because they stop teams otherwise. These past few years they just haven't been able to generate the turnovers or the pass rush it takes to make enough stops to win the game. I think you overrate the Saints D based on that SuperBowl run. That offense is high powered but make no mistake your corners suck. If you can get a better pass rush you will be the team to beat in no time. That's why the Giants are tough. Their corners suck too but gets masked by zone coverage and a good 4 man pass rush. But I agree with you...more zone coverage late in that game against Alex Smith and the Saints would have won. But good QBs pick the zone apart (I.e Brady and Brees).

[Hobbes]

Superbowl-bound!

[The Rap]

I'm still pinching myself Hobbes. Great game, great win capping off a surprising great season and now we have a chance to be champions. Should be a great game!!!

[bravos4evr]

and I will be rooting for the Giants right along side of y'all. I would root for the Taliban if they were playin the Pats..... mehhhh Go Giants!!

[Andy G.]

I'll be rooting for the Patriots. I have nothing against the Giants. I'm actually a really big fan of Eli and Tom Coughlin and always have been. I like the Patriots more, though.

[bravos4evr]

........sigh.............. :)

[Dreamscape]

Go Pats!

And I hope the Giants will give Kyle Williams a NFC Champion ring for his irreplaceable assistance in getting them to Indy.

[The Rap]

I like Brady a lot but the Giants are my team along with the Jets. The Giants game plan seems simple; Get Brady as much as possible and play tough.

[bravos4evr]

Every time the Giants sack Brady a baby is born!

[The Rap]

WOW is all I can say and Eli has become one of the truly elite QBs in the league

[Wahoo]

F*ck Eli. Choke job by the Pats big time.

[Dreamscape]

Brady played scared and made some awful throws/decisions. It was like the spirit of Brett Farve had took him over. Eli putting up one touchdown (only possible because Patriot defenders don't want to bat the ball down) against one of the worst defenses in the league isn't much to talk up.

[Hobbes]

Both teams played well - not great, but well. The Giants played better than the Patriots. I don't see how anybody could try to take anything away from their victory. Yes, the Patriots made some mistakes, but no more than any team makes in a typical game. It hardly means the Giants somehow didn't earn this win. Give their defense credit for not allowing the Patriots offense to dominate.

As a Giants fan I'm the first to admit that the Giants were hardly the class of the NFL this season. However, they were obviously a better team than their pedestrian record indicated. They moved through the playoffs, beating both the Packers and 49ers on the road, and beat the Patriots in the Super Bowl. At some point folks have to recognize that this was a deserved victory.

Either way, I'm one happy Giants fan right now. :thumbsup:

[The Rap]

BS, nobody choked. You just won't give credit to a Giants defense that has been taking teams apart for weeks now. Pierre Paul is an updated version and even better that the Freak, Kearse. Tuck and Osi are two of the best DEs while Canty swallows the middle. It was just two months ago when everyone wanted to dump Coughlan and since then he had the team working on all cylinders. The best all around team doesnlt usually win th e championship. The team that finished the hottest is usually the team that can go all the way.

[Wahoo]

Please if Welker makes that catch, we aren't talking about the Vagiants right now. Or Deion Branch for that matter. Or the numerous fumbles they failed to recover. The Patriots had every opportunity to make that final drive the game winner and they choked. The Giants defense is the most overrated defense on the face of the planet. They just got bailed by poor Patriot execution, Eli, and Manningham.

Eli is one helluva clutch quarterback, no doubt..but the Pats definitely choked that away.

[Hobbes]

Please if Welker makes that catch, we aren't talking about the Vagiants right now. Or Deion Branch for that matter. Or the numerous fumbles they failed to recover. The Patriots had every opportunity to make that final drive the game winner and they choked. The Giants defense is the most overrated defense on the face of the planet. They just got bailed by poor Patriot execution, Eli, and Manningham.

Eli is one helluva clutch quarterback, no doubt..but the Pats definitely choked that away.
If the Giants were such a crappy and outclassed team, it shouldn't have come down to one missed catch by Welker to seal the Patriots' fate. By that time the far superior Patriots team should have had a quite comfortable double-digit lead and been looking to run out the clock.

You don't have to like the Giants, but that dislike shouldn't lead to the erroneous conclusion that the Giants were simply the beneficiaries of all their opponents laying down for them on the way to the Super Bowl victory.

[bravos4evr]

as a Saints fan, I really thought the Giants outplayed the patriots on both sides of the ball the entire game. They just kept stalling out near the red zone. Eli did exactly what he had to do which was drive them down the field in the 4th qrtr of the Superbowl to win the game.

He may not be Brees or Aaron Rogers , but he's a top 5 or 6 QB in the NFL.

[Wahoo]

If the Giants were such a crappy and outclassed team, it shouldn't have come down to one missed catch by Welker to seal the Patriots' fate. By that time the far superior Patriots team should have had a quite comfortable double-digit lead and been looking to run out the clock.

You don't have to like the Giants, but that dislike shouldn't lead to the erroneous conclusion that the Giants were simply the beneficiaries of all their opponents laying down for them on the way to the Super Bowl victory.

I didn't say that. I said the Patriots had opportunities where that defense was beaten and failed to execute so largely in this game the Giants were beneficiaries of good fortune. Secondly, my issue is with their defense being as overrated as it is. They have a good pass rushing line. The rest of their defense is mediocre. They won this game because the Patriots failed to execute at crucial and because of the effectiveness of Eli and his ability to keep Brady off the field. I would never discount that because he played like an ace for the most part in these playoffs. But even considering that, he did throw what should have been two brutal interceptions against San Fran and relied on two freak bonehead plays by a no name special teamer to beat them. So make no mistake about it, the Giants were easily the luckiest team this postseason.

Hats off to Eli. He and his offense deserve all the accolades. He has shown his worth to that franchise. But it's a bit disconcerting to me that a team that got waxed by Redskins twice is the champ. Such is the NFL.

[Chris_Moderato]

I don't care one way or the other about football or anything that happens at the Super Bowl.

That said, Vagiants is my new favorite word.