Free Agency: Isaac Bruce Signs with the Niners

Looks like the Niners are trying to recreate that old magic. That VERY old magic. The San Francisco Forty-Niners threw their hat in the NFL's Free Agency ring. Signing long time St. Louis Rams wide receiver Isaac Bruce to a two-year $6 million dollar contract.



The move reunites him with former Rams Coach Mike Martz who was recently added to try and get the 49ers offense to look more like the Rams offense circa 2000. Apparently the role of Isaac Bruce; sure handed receiver will be played by Isaac Bruce; washed up receiver. With role of Kurt Warner; the quarterback no one believes in being played quite convincingly by Alex Smith; the quarterback no one, including Niners head coach Mike Nolan, believes in.



Check out my Pre-Free Agency Projections for the San Franciso 49ers

Alright people it's March and to us sports fans that means March Madness, Spring Training, and NFL Free Agency. To a lot of people March means March of Dimes.

My sister is walking for the March of Dimes, click on her banner below, and head to the comments section where you'll find a woman who mentions that March of Dimes helped her family care for her when she was young. That's my Grandmother. Along with beating me for my abuse of the English language on this blog, she has beaten Polio, and a stroke.

SHE DRINKS YOUR MILKSHAKE

If you can donate great if not just check out her comment

Vikings Trade Troy Williamson to Jags

Anthony Hall of Vikings War Cry is reporting that Vikings receiver Troy Williamson has come to terms on a trade with Jacksonville. Reportedly it will be a pick from the 2nd day of the draft.

Last week Williamson's agent was total he could shop around to see what other teams might be willing to give for his player. I am sure the Vikings like myself expected the answer to be "nothing, I wouldn't trade you anything for the biggest draft bust in recent memory."Apparently Jacksonville has a short memory, as in, "can't remember how bad Williamson was last season" short. At this point I am having the most difficulty with two simple choices; Am I more pissed off they are only getting a day 2 draft pick or am I more surprised they got anything at all.

While it is impressive that the Vikings aren't being forced to just release him, the disappointment still kills me. It isn't that he was 7th overall and now we are getting a 6th or 7th rouunder for him. It is the fact we chose him in the first place, a junior out of a smaller school like South Carolina just isn't the 7th pick overall. Especially in a year where the Vikings passed on Antrel Rolle, Carlos Rogers, Demarcus Ware, and Shawne Merriman. Those 4 came in the next 5 picks, forget the late round surprises that did well. These 4 were known talents, but the Vikings thought they were smarter than everyone else.

I am willing to let this go, I promise not to rant on for the next 20 years about it the way I do about the Herschell Walker deal. In return I want only one thing from the Vikings. Don't try and hit a home run in the draft this year; just take the best guy out there. When the Vikings took Randy Moss inspite of the issues that had cause him to drop that worked out. When they got Adrian Peterson because of his durability questions it seemed to work. So just take the best guy on the board, everytime you go for the surprise it seems as though us fans are the ones who are surprised, and not pleasently.

New England Patriots Offseason

New England Patriots have certainly had better offseasons recently. After one of the greatest seasons in history, an offseason begun watching the other team celebrate your defeat is difficult. The continuing, evergrowing struggle of spygate isn't helping. New England, in typical fashion, are not allowing that to detour them from the business of getting better.

The season long "what if they go 19-0" session was certainly entertainimg, but New England now faces the truth; they didn't shank a field goal, have a fluke fumble, or suffer catastrophic injuries. They were outplayed on the field, simple football, along with some great scheming by Giants defensive coordinator, Steve Spagnoulo, defeated them.

Which weakness, laid bare in the final game, will the Patriots address through the draft. With definite need at linebacker, Kieth Rivers(LB-USC) would be a likely prospect. Belichick has said in the past, he doesn not like to draft linebackers. Feeling that they can be evaluated much better after a few years in the league. Belichick's evaluation of recently released Dolphin, Zach Thomas, must have been good. Thomas was offered a contract during his visit to New England shortly after the Dolphins cut him loose.

Those two factors make a LB unlikely in the first round. The front line of the Patriots defense needs some attention. A solid group all year long, but they began to show their age as the season progressed, a situation likely to get worse not better. frontline options this earlyin the draft should still be good. Franchise defensive prospects Sedrick Ellis(DT-USC) and Vernon Gholston could still be available for New England. Ellis would be a great fit for Belichick, his motor suits Belichick play 60 minutes mantra. After his performance at the Senior Bowl he may not last until the Patriots pick. Gholston, certanly not be a bad consolation prize, may not be the best fit for the 3-4 the Patriots play. Whichever they choose to address it will be with the Niners #7 pick. The Patriots #31 pick was surredered as a penaty for spygate. The Giants now have the #31 pick.

New England is making all these preperations amidst ongiong spygate drama. Former video Assistant, Matt Walsh, has claimed he video taped the Rams wolk through prior to their Superbowl meeting with the Patriots. Belichick has denied ever filming or seeing film of a walk through. Alongside that back and forth Senator Arlen Specter is pressuring Roger Goodell with a laundry list of accusations; why did he punish Belichick priot to seeing the tapes, why did he destroy the tapes, why if he knew about Matt Walsh hasn't he persued questioning him.

Belichick has flatly denied Walsh's accusations. Along with personell director, Scott Pioli, Belicheck has gone out of his way to minimize Walsh. While Goodell and Belichick would love to see this go away; Specter, and the group of former Rams suing Belichick and the Patriots, seem bound to make sure that doesn't happen.

New York Giants Offseason

The best part of the Giants Offseason is how it started; with a Superbowl parade. Now comes the difficult task of repeating. While much of the offense seems set; I would say deep at some spots. The offensive line could use a little work. The defense has question marks throughout.

The offensive line isn't truly a huge need. The Giants experienced some injury issues toward the end of the regular season. They held up well with their backups, but as the age of their line creeps up, they could start to look for the next crop.

Since their offensive needs certainly can't be described as pressing they are more likely to look to their defense. The lack of a primary need on defense is less about the Giants over all talent and more about the numreous question marks. Both cornerbacks played well-when they weren't hurt. Safety James Butler stepped up in the post season-but his week to week play isn't good enough for a starter. Linebacker Mathias Kiwanua seems to be fitting into defensive coordinator, Steve Spagnuolo's, plans well. Linebackers Kawika Mitchell and Reggie Torbor played well all season, but both are unrestricted free agents. This is where Giant fans find out if ownership is commited to building a dynasty.

Since they are likely to keep one, but not both of them. The Giants draft starts here. They could get quite a steal here if Dan Conner(LB-Penn St.) is still on the board. Linebacker is not a real area of need for the teams choosing shortly before the Giants #31 pick. In a turn of luck, the Giants would likely have missed out on him if the Patriots had been able to keep their pick. It was forfeited as a penalty for the Spygate incident.

If you are interested in the Offseason plans of the rest of the league check out this list

San Francisco 49'ers Offseason

The San Francisco 49'ers Offseason got off to a real interesting start with the back and forth between head coach Mike Nolan and starting quarterback Alex Smith. Then they both got a little help in the form of Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz.

While Martz could be just the piece that solves all their problems. He just might be the piece that spells the end for one or both of them. Alex Smith definitely needs a mentor that can help him tap into his potential. Either that or a lobotomy so he isn't such an emotional eggshell. Nolan on the other hand definitely needs someone like Martz who can help him turn up the offense on a team that grossly under achieved in 2007. However, if Martz manages to turn the offensive production up and Nolan still can't deliver on some wins. Martz might end up helping himself to Nolans job.

It just isn't time to give up on Alex Smith yet so while that is a question mark. The last thing his fragile ego needs is for the Niners to take a quarterback. So with the team set well in the backfield with Frank Gore. The Niners need a strong Wide Receiver to compliment Darell Jackson, Arnaz Battle and Tight End Vernon Davis. While any of those three could take the next step to beocme a premier player none of them managed to do it last year.

Early Doucet(WR-LSU) is a big time speed guy that could really free things up underneath. He has also shown that he can step and deliver in big games and big situations.While the head of a team certainly isn't going to be a Wide Receiver any kind of leadership the Niners could bring would be helpful. Especially, considering they are one of the youngest teams in the NFL.

The Niners could also look to shore up thier offensive line though they do a have an early pick in the second round to address that. It would go a long way to improving Alex Smiths play if he wasn't getting dropped one out of every ten plays like he did in 2007.

NFL Teams Begin Offseason Shakeups

As the NFL Offseason gets into full swing several teams attempt to superman the MO-mentum.

It is nice to see teams that had such disappointing performances last season not settling. I mean as a Vikings fan I have watched several offseasons come and go wondering why nothing was done to improve, when I assume they were as unhappy with the previous season as I was.

This Offseason the long suffering Dolphins and Falcons fans can at least take solace in the fact that their teams seem commited to getting better. The Panthers fans while not nearly as bad off as those two camps, can at least see small signs of improvement.

The Dolphins began their offseason remodel under Bill Parcells. They kicked things off first by dumping Marty Booker(WR), Trent Green(QB), L.J. Shelton(OT), Keith Traylor(DT),Anthony Alabi(OT), Anthony Bryant(DT), Marion Dukes(OT), Marquay Love(DT), Joe Toledo(OT). Then they commited the de-aging process by telling Zach Thomes(LB) he would no longer be needed. Honestly, it would seem lik a scary proposition to dump almost 20 percent of your teams roster, especially a face of the franchise guylike Thomas. Then again when you're 1-and-15 you probably ought to look to dump even more. Bottom line while I may not be sure move to move about the Dolphins decision. I am sure I would have confidence in Parcells.


The Panthers came to the get younger, and cut salary party just a little later than the Dolphins. The cut Dan Morgan(LB) as well as Mike Wahle(OG). While Wahle is a little better right now, and will probable alnd a gig sooner. Morgan is still a great prospect, he won't draw the kind of interest(or money for that matter) that he did a few years ago as a free agent. But there are teams that will take a shot on him recovering his health. Especially teams that could use the kind of leadership he has shown, for their defense.

The Falcons are rounding out this trend for now. They announced to day that they are releasing Alge Crumpler(TE), Byron Leftwich(QB), Wayne Gandy(OT), Lewis Sanders(CB), Jamin Elliott(WR), Marcus Wilkins(LB), Rod Coleman(DT). Ok some of this was clearly the other shoe dropping. I mean even Leftwich had to figure he was gone. I am surprised to see Gandy and Coleman on this list. They will be on new teams by the time, it really matters. But those could be the result of financial concerns so I'll give them the benefit of the doubt.


Where I can't seem to keep from flapping my arms(Read: Dirty Bird) in disgust, is Alge Crumpler. You have got to be kidding me. Hey new gm, (who's name I am not even taking the time to look up, because with moves like this he'll be gone before I can research it) don't make a big move to make a big move. No matter who your quarterback is next season I am sure it wont be anyone established. With that as a given, you might want to consider hanging onto that security blanket of a tight end. Every new quarterback loves a safe dump off guy, and hates new gm Thomas Dimitroff(Did you really think I wasn't even gonna look it up. :-). It really is a blessing to Alge Crumpler though. He is definitely moving up no matter where he goes. He will have a new jersey by the time I hit publish on this post.


Like I said the expected portion of this Leftwich. If he was on thin ice as the season ended. He had to hear that ice cracking when head coach Mike Smith was brought over from the team he was just released from to start last season.


While all the turnover is interesting. The best part of this is the fact that the league gets better overall. Being a huge football fan every move that makes the whole league more interesting I am a supporter of. Is it pre-season yet??

San Diego Chargers Offseason

As we peer into the San Diego Chargers Offseason plans, you can't help but question where they would get stronger. I don't really see a pressing need for them other than to improve their depth in a few areas.

Right after the season ending loss to the Patriots I posted about the Giant Man-Goes that Philip Rivers displayed by playing within a week of his surgery. Given some time to think about it I somewhat backed off of my opinion on him playing. You can't take anything away from Rivers decision to play. I find most of the fault to be with San Diego's coaches and medical staff.

If their depth is a concern it would be in the defensive backfield. As well as someone to fill in for Jamal Williams as the wear and tear on that big bosy seems to be effecting him more and more. In order to strengthen the entire defensive backfield they would be smart to go with a guy like Reggie Smith(DB-Okl.) who is capable of playing either corner or safety. He is talented enough to shortly be taking the place of Marlon McCree who has shown some shortcomings at safety. The Chargers may also look to move Drayton Florence to safety in order to give Cromartie more time on the field. Though he has not really shown a physicality that I personally like from the safety position.

On the other hand they could opt to look to the defensive line to provide some rest for Williams and a replacement for him down the road. While it would be a reach for them to take Pat Sims (DT-Auburn), he is not a superstar but he is a huge physical presence at 6'4" 315. It wouldn't be that hard to reach though because this draft class is very light on interior linemen.

Probably the best news for the Chargers moving forward is that they no longer have the "one and done in the playoffs" monkey on thier back. Norv Turner isn't coaching for his job any longer, at least not to the degree he was last season. He can relax a little and coach. The players should continue their momentum that they gained when midway through the season, they decided that Schottenheimer wasn't coming back through that door, so that might as well play for Norv.

See Other Offseason Breakdowns

If you like this blog Subscribe via RSS or Subscribe by Email
Learn more about RSS

Jacksonville Jaguars Offseason

The Offseason plans of the Jacksonville Jaguars are somewhat cloudy. The Jags reached a level of success that the team can be somewhat satisfied with. It is hard to look back at the final game against the Patriots and then say "we have this deficiency and that deficiency".

If the Jaguars have a need it is probably at defensive end. With Reggie Hayward's injuries seem to linger enough to hold him back last season he will be a big question mark. Bobbie McCray will be a free agent and may draw more from a free agency pool that is light on defensive end, than the Jags are willing to pay to keep him . They also need to resign Grady Jackson but since that is likely, it will probably be the DE that they address in the Draft.

A likely prospect is Calais Campbell(DE-Miami). Campbell is a giant physical prospect at 6'8" 280 lb. which could be intriguing to a defensive team like Jacksonville. While he didn't really perform up to expectations in his final season at Miami, it is likely that a leader like Head Coach , Jack Del Rio, would see him as someone he could bring that potential out of.

Jack Del Rio is also in interesting part of this equation. With his former career as the Linebacker and play caller on the field for the teams he was on. Del Rio seems to have his hand in the defense of former defensive coordinator Mike Smith. With Smith now having moved on to become the head coach of the Falcons in Atlanta. It will be interesting to see if Del Rio will take a stronger hand in the defense or if he will bring in a defensive coordinator that has a little bigger presence than Mike Smith.

In either case the Jags look like they are a strong contending team for the near future. As long as they continue the upward mobility that they have shown over the last few seasons. So long as they don't rest on the success that they have enjoyed.

See Other Offseason Breakdowns

If you like this blog Subscribe via RSS or Subscribe by Email
Learn more about RSS

Jim Zorn: Totally Prepared to Coach the Redskins

I have already posted about the Washington Redskins Hire of Jim Zorn. I know no one likes a guy who says I told you so. But every body likes being the guy who says it. I TOLD YOU SO.

Zorn held his first press conference yesterday. He echoed the surprise most felt upon hearing that he got the job saying "I was a bit taken back, if you will," Zorn then said. "I wasn't speechless, because my first words were: 'Certainly, I'd like to do that.' It was a bit shocking. After that I got my game face on and tried to get after it."

Yeah Jim, that screams competent. If you are surprised that you got a job how qualified can you be. Then Jim told us just how competent and prepared he is. He referred to the Redskins' colors as "maroon and black" instead of burgundy and gold. Look I can forgive you on Maroon instead of Burgundy. My girl is responsible for any color distinction beyond Red in my house. But how did you confuse Gold with Black. I mean it obviously isn't a matter of confusion. He literally is such a giddy 12-year old girl that he just blurted out the wrong word. That is even more concerning.

If you like this blog Subscribe via RSS or Subscribe by Email
Learn more about RSS

Tennessee Titans Offseason

The Tennesee Titans 2008 Offseason will be full of action. Some of this action started when Vince Young ordered found out about the firing of Norm Chow. Chow was replaced by Mike Heimerdinger. This might turn out to be better fit since he is a run first type of coordinator and Vince Young can't pass...

While the Titans have spent several picks lately on Wide Receivers, they have yet to see much production from those picks. Since Vince Young is clearly running this franchise, there is a large chance they go with Limas Sweed(WR-UT) from the same Texas alma mater as Vince Young. Outside of making Merrill Hoge's personal whipping boy comfortable, Sweed is a very talented receiver. The biggest upside to him is that much like Young he is a winner, even if the stats don't always bear out his greatness. He definately rises to the big occasion. The question really is can the Titans get to a big occasion.

Another possible area of focus for the Titans will be the Defensive End spot. While they are surely going to franchise tag Albert Haynesworth. That is only a one year fix, and with the money that will be required by that tag, they are likely to be short on money when comes to resigning the other free agent on the line, Atwan Odom. Several teams have already shown an interest, so he is likely gone. I will be interested to see how he performs wherever he ends up without a guy like Haynesworth pulling attention away from him.

In an effort to address this need on the line they may look to Calais Campbell(DE-Miami) while Campbell didn't have the production expected of him this year he is a monster at 6'8" 280. He would almost certainly draw a double team if he can show any kind of skill. Between that and the attention Haynesworth draws. The two of them could team up to be a dominant force on the line while freeing up some of the other memebers of the Titans front seven.

One of the intereesting things to watch for this season will be the security that Jeff Fisher has enjoyed. He is the longest tenured coach in the league and without much improvement in recent years. You have to wonder when tha seat starts to get a little hot. The other ongoing saga will be is Vince Young a viable quarterback in this league. Despite some of my joking earlier in this post I think he is. I'll take a winner over a guy who throws a good ball.

If you like this blog Subscribe via RSS or Subscribe by Email
Learn more about RSS

Washington Redskins Hire New Coach

The Washington Redskins have finally named a head coach. Steve Mariucci you say, nope. Pete Carroll has decided to leave USC, not likely. Jim Fassel is coming to town to lead all those cantidates he signed off on, not going to happen. Nope the Redskins have decided to go with Jim Zorn.

Some where AL Davis is laughing from the otherside. What!? Al Davis isn't dead, my bad. Well he is about the only person who is going to be heppy with this hire, since it just bumped him from the most hated owner in professional sports.

I don't mean to go all third grade dodgeball here, but it isn't even like Zorn was the last kid picked when you chose up teams. He was the kid you didn't even want but everybody else decided to play a different game without you. Don't be to disappointed though, I mean at least he has experience. He has been a coordinator since way back two weeks ago when Snyder hired him.

I love the quote that Daniel Snyder submitted into the NFL judgement machine.

"We knew of Jim's stellar offensive reputation, so we hired him as coordinator, but we also suspected he would be a strong candidate for head coach," Snyder said. "After our first six-hour interview with him, I told Joe [Gibbs], 'This guy would make a terrific head coach.' But we stayed true to our commitment to interview every candidate."

Could you make a weaker attempt at trying to pacify the Redskins fans with some form of tying Joe Gibbs into this decision. If Gibbs had made the decision, Greg Williams would be the coach and the world wouldn't be mocking you right now.


If you like this blog Subscribe via RSS or Subscribe by Email
Learn more about RSS

Washington Redskins Offseason

The 2008 Offseason for the Washington Redskins has already been action filled. Maybe it has been inaction filled. The 'Skins are the only team holding more interviews than the Falcons were, and at least in Washington's case you get the impression that they aren't really good fits for either side. Unlike Atlanta where you got the impression no one wanted that job.

So far we have heard the names Pete Carroll, Steve Mariuchi, Greg Williams, Al Saunders, Steve Spagnolo, Jim Mora jr., and Jim Fassel. Of all those options the only one that is really still out there is Fassel. I think the time has come for owner, Daniel Snyder, to realize that Joe Gibbs isn't coming back through that door. While I think Snyder needs a guy like Gibbs who's opinion comes with enough experience that he has to listen to it. A coach of that caliber isn't out there and if they are they don't have the emotional ties to the Redskins that Gibbs had, so they aren't about to deal with Snyder's lunacy. I don't really like Fassell but Snyder wont go with the Mike Tomlin, Mike McCarthy type guy, he needs a name in order to stroke his ego. So there you are Jim Fassell next coach of the mediocre 'Skins(trust me they will be mediocre under Fassell)

The most unfortunate thing about Snyder not opting to hand things over to Greg Williams or even the dark horse transition candidate Al Saunders. Is that they will lose a lot if not all of the emotional momentum that they had coming out of last season. It is hard to rally around as a team when the majority of your leadership was not around for the events that brought you together.

An area that needs to be addressed less for it's on the field importance and more to solidify the salary cap questions that the Redskins are facing will be quarterback. Jason Campbell is the man under center in the future. As nice a story as Todd Collins was at the end of the season, no one really believes he is going to supplant Campbell. He is however a free agent and is either going to demand a higher price than the 'Skins can really pay with their cap troubles or he may just say "I've shown what I can do" and leave to get a starting gig or at least a shot at one somewhere else. The third string QB in name and mentor in reality was Mark Brunell. He is a drain on the cap and is also old. That age was a prerequisite for a backup in Joe Gibbs mind but is likely going to be seen as huge negative by the next guy running the ship.

While the 'Skins defense was pretty reliable across the board, they were playing as an inspired unit. They were also being led by Greg Williams, both of those factors are gone next year. I will be interested to see how they do. They are in need at Defensive End but it isn't a must go first round type need.

On the otherside of the ball though, the questions start. They have spent big on some names and are solid in the #1wr spot with Santana Moss, but once you get past him and possibly Antwan Randle-el as a #2 the drop in ability is huge. Not only are Reche Caldwell and Keenan Mccardell probably not the best #3's they are likely gone anyway.

If they are looking for wideout they could be looking at Mario Manningham(WR-MICH) if he makes it that far or they could go with Malcom Kelly(WR-OKL) who is a little more likely to still be on the board at this point. While Manningham has the higher overall ranking amongst the experts, I like Kelly better. I really think Manningham might be a bust, he cerrtainly has playmaker ability but he is to small of frame. Kelly has him by 4 inches and 40 pounds at 6'4'' 219.

The biggest reason they might not end up going with a WR is that those two are going to get lots of attention from Philadelphia and Tampa Bay who are 19 and 20 to Washingtons #21(wierd coincidence that they end up with Sean Taylor's number in the draft) If those two WR are gone the 'Skins should look at the guy Tampa was debating over, Kentwan Balmer(DT-UNC). Balmer may get passed by the Bucs because Gruden isn't likely to pick up a guy who has had questions about putting in the work to live up to his potential. Daniel Snyder on the other hand is always willing to take a risk.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Offseason

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers offseason roadmap started shortly after the season with the extension of contracts for Head Coach Jon Gruden as well as Bruce Allen. They will continue to be blessed with the presence of Defensive Coordinator Genious Monte Kiffin.

If you saw the first uhhhhh final errrr ONLY post season game the Buccaneers were in this year you know, Ike Hilliard is old. Almost as old as Joey Galloway. Ok, settle down 50-50 bar nation, I am not saying he is done but if the guy who has to carry your receiving core can be removed from the game plan so easily. You need to address that before anything else.

I have mentioned in a few of my offseason breakdowns that I am not to impressed with the early talent at wide receiver in the draft. The Bucs aren't too early with the 20th pick, they could be looking at Mario Manningham(WR-MICH) if he makes it that far or they could go with Malcom Kelly(WR-OKL) who is a little more likely to still be on the board at this point. While Manningham has the higher overall ranking amongst the experts, I like Kelly better. I really think Manningham might be a bust, he cerrtainly has playmaker ability but he is to small of frame. Kelly has him by 4 inches and 40 pounds at 6'4'' 219.

If they are able to answer the receiver question before the draft, they could look to their defensive line needs. While Gaines Adams is certainly developing into the player they hoped for, he could use some support. Monte Kiffin is brilliant but even he can't turn crap into gold.

I love Kentwan Balmer(DT-UNC) but his chances of making it onto a team with Gruden and Kiffin are pretty slim. He has a reputation of not getting all he can out of his ability, based mostly on a perceived lack of effort. Some how I dont see Chucky taking on a guy who isn't willing to hustle. The only way he can make it with the Bucs will be if his interview at the combine convinces the Bucs that Balmer's recent increase in effort will be sustained. The other thing that just might help convince the Bucs is the fact that they would have to reach big time to fill a D-line hole if they aren't willing to take Balmer.






If you like this blog Subscribe via RSS or Subscribe by Email
Learn more about RSS

The Hidden Benefit of the Giants Superbowl Win

There are all kinds of positives coming out this years Superbowl. Between Eli's emergence as a quarterback and leader, Michael Strahan finally getting a ring, Coughlin becoming the "beloved" coach in less than a year. There is a lot of good to be found all through this story. Nothing though should make us as happy as the copycat factor.

The NFL is a copy cat league. It always has been. In the 60's the Packers physical grit won so many championships that every team in the league was built on that model. The 70's became a contest of which teams would copy them better. Turned out most years it would be the Steelers, though the Raiders gave 'em a run for their money. Then when I was younger it was the west coast offense. Bill Walsh and his Niners dominated the 80's with it and every team in league was talking up the pass first, west coast offense. Then the Cowboys tweaked that style for the 90's adding a little more focus for the run. The latest hot trend is the two running back system which showed up slightly in a few places in 2006 but became the system du jour in 2007.

If there is a team of this decade, it is probably the Patriots, and definitely would have been had they defeated the Giants. So every one take some time and be thankful to the Giants. What copy cat moves could we have expected had the Patriots managed to seal their legacy. Well let's start with the press conferences. Every coach will start giving answers in under 7 words no matter the question. Onto the sidelines, all the coaches will start looking like a Goodwill threw up on them. When the interviews go to the locker room. Every time a reporter asks a player a question they will hear about the Patriot, Niner, Viking, etc. way. Though I would just love to hear one of the Bengals police blotter regulars talking about the Bengal way.

So thank the Giants NFL fans. I do like the Patriots as a part of the NFL picture. I can find a use for them as piece to the puzzle. But I don't think I could bear an NFL full of copycats of the information free zone, that is New England.

Hall of Fame Inductees Announced - Carter Snubbed

I could be slightly biased with my feelings here. So I am going to attempt to go with the facts. Instead of vomiting out the rant I initially felt in reaction to Cris Carter not being inducted tot he Hall of Fame this year.

Chris Carter facts

Receptions

• 2nd all time in receiving yards (13,899) -Trails Jerry Rice
• 2nd all time in career receptions (1,101) -Trails Jerry Rice
• T-3rd all time in seasons with 50+ receptions (11) -Trails Jerry Rice and Andre Reed
• T-3rd all time in receptions in a season(122 twice '94 & '95) -Trails Marvin Harrison and Herman Moore
• T-4th all time in Season with 1,000+ Yards Receiving(8) -Trails Jerry Rice, Tim Brown and Jimmy Smith

Touchdowns

• T-3rd all time in most seasons leading league in TD(3) - Trails Don Hutson and Jerry Rice
• 2nd all time most TD in a career(130) - Trails Jerry Rice
• T-4th all time Most TD in a season(17) - Trails Jerry Rice, Mark Clayton, and Sterling Sharpe

Not only are there very few guys who have surpassed him in any one category, Jerry Rice is the only player to surpass him consistently across the board. Jerry Rice is the one player who it is readily agreed is the best player at his position. Almost every other best at argument will draw a laundry list of names. Not WR, so the simple fact he is consistently above or near the performance of the greatest of all time warrants a first ballot Hall of Fame selection.

As I sit here pondering why it is that he wasn't selected. I can't help but think of the words of another player who was inducted this year. Redskins corner Darell Green was asked by Scot Van Pelt on the Mike Tirico show "why is Riggins the only Redskin from those three championship teams to make it to the Hall of Fame". With out much conviction he said the only thing he could come up wit was that they had no sizzle, they were just guys who came in and did their jobs.

Like I said he didn't seem to have much conviction, it was more of a default because he couldn't explain it. I think after seeing Cris Carter snubbed there may just be something to this. Carter really had no off the field issues once he left Philadelphia. I mean what exactly would it have taken, would he have had to actually surpass Jerry Rice. Maybe they just don't put receivers into the hall on the first ballot. Maybe they feel like it is the Fantasy Football Hall of Fame and because receivers don't touch the ball as often as a QB or RB they aren't worth as much.

Don't worry I got you covered I looked it up. Here are your First Ballot Hall of Famers. There are plenty of them but in the interest of apples to apples here are the Wide Receivers

• Raymond Berry
• Lance Alworth
• Paul Warfield
• Steve Largent

I was cruising along researching this and I was willing to accept that maybe some of the guys on this list are better thanI know as they were before my time. But seriously. Steve Largent!? Are you kidding me, I like Largent, I loved his tough style and his gritty play. But I challenge anyone out there to lay down a convincing argument for why Steve Largent should be a first ballot Hall of Famer, while Cris Carter is not.

If you like this blog Subscribe via RSS or Subscribe by Email

Learn more about RSS

Will the Patriots Keep Themselves From 19-0

Let the Jinx talk begin. The Patriots who have all year long been telling people "we are only worried about this game", "we're preparing for (insert this weeks beat down recipient here), they are the toughest opponent we have faced all season", and my favorite gem " We are on our 16th(17th, 18th... who can even keep track anymore) one game win streak"

After all this talk and humility, it turns out the Patriots might have been thinking a little farther ahead than they let on. A few weeks ago before they even took the field against the San Diego Chargers in an attempt to reach 18-0. The Patriots paid a visit to the Patent office. They applied for a patent on the phrases "19-0" and “19-0 The Perfect Season.”

Tell me again how your not looking ahead. Tell me again how the perfect season isn't on your minds. Because I have to be honest, I bought it the first time. I am not even a patriots fan and I was drinking the Kool-Aid. So now that we all know the truth. We are left with one pressing question.

Will this be the jinx, that ruins it all?

If you like this blog Subscribe via RSS or Subscribe by Email

Learn more about RSS

Goodell Called Before Congress To Discuss Spygate

I despise the fact that congress got involved in steroids. I mean they have plenty to worry about. Even if they didn't it still isn't really in the scope of congress' job to oversee baseball.

While I have constantly held that position I have over the last few months been somewhat swayed by the argument that it's all about the kids. You can't deny that the example professional athletes set affect the youth of our country. It goes beyond that though, forget the example set for youth. The fact is one guy does it to make the league now the next guy has to do it to make the league.

So I am starting to come around to Congress' involvement. Then what do I see crawling across ESPN's Bottom line. Congress has called Roger Goodell before them to investigate the destruction of the tapes and the Spygate issues in general. I'm sorry, what!? Explain this one to me someone, who is this protecting. Are they going to look into the widespread allegations that every team does it. This is just the most blatant attempt to get around history. Look the Superbowl winners go to the White House every year. Congress, if you want to get around the NFL and it's players then invite them, they would probably show up. But abusing your position in Congress is just phenomenally weak to me.

Is Adam "Pac-Man" Jones As Bad As You Think.

I know you don't think Pac-Man Jones is a good guy. I don't even think he's a good guy. In fact I would guess his mom is about the only person that does think so. I am certainly not going to talk you into the fact he is a good guy. The thing worth considering though is the fact that he probably isn't as bad as he has been made out to be.





He has made plenty of dumb choices; smoking marijuana, getting into fights, and publicly whining that he had to wait for Valet to get his car. I know none of these are good things, hell they are even stupid things. But some of the other instances like the shooting in Las Vegas. That happened, no one claims it didn't, but Jones didn't shoot anyone, he didn't even fire a gun. He was in the building when it happened. Should he choose better friends, sure he should. But his friends and their actions aren't really his problem or his employers business.





I think that he should be criminally liable for the things he did, not the things he witnessed. My real beef though is with emperor Goodell. So far what has he been convicted of that merits him being suspended for a full year. I just don't agree, he pays his debt to society for the things he is CONVICTED of. Not the things that the media reports. Goodell suspended him before he received his first conviction. I agree the league needs to be cleaned up but not with extremist measures.



If you like this blog Subscribe via RSS or Subscribe by Email

Learn more about RSS

Ways to Enjoy Super Week

List of ways to enjoy the overhype all week long

Miami Dolphins Offseason

Trade this pick, NOW. It doesn't even have to be that good fo a deal. With the talent evaluating skills of Bill Parcells and Jeff Ireland, you will make more out of several later picks than you can out of one early one.

Ok, Now that we have my opinion slightly clarified. Let's talk about what they need to do in either situation.

The whole complexion of the team has changed due to the fact that Bill Parcells was brought in to run the franchise. He promptly hired Jeff Ireland away from his director of talent evaluation with the Cowboys. They then announced the forgone conclusion that Cam Cameron would be leaving, and as soon as he was available they brought in former Dallas Cowboys offensive line coach Tony Sparano. With all this change it is easier to determine the plans for the future of Miami by looking to Dallas than it is looking back at Miami

If they stick with that #1 spot, they need to shore up their defensive front. With aging Joey Porter and Zach Thomas, they need to strengthen the defensive front in order to pull some focus off of those two. They still have the skill to play, but they can't be the guys getting doubled and focused on by the other teams blocking scheme.

The popular talk is to have them take Darren Mcfadden. I don't like this and I know Parcells wont do it. For starters they have some talent in the backfield already. If they can keep that talent on the field and out of the trainers room. ALso looking at Bill Parcells past drafting strategy, he clearly feels you can get good backs later on in the draft. Neither Julius Jones or Marion Barber were picked very early.

If the Dolphins are capable of getting deper in the draft through a trade they will be able to select multiple players throughout these positions of need. If not then they will take a defensive player. While Glann Dorsey(DT-LSU) is the bigger name , slightly than Chris Long(DE-VA). I think the Dolphins are more likely to turn to Long in the draft. He is a much nicer fit for the 3-4 defense that Parcells will likely have team running.

If you like this blog Subscribe via RSS or Subscribe by Email
Learn more about RSS