JETS LOOK TO KEEP SURGING AGAINST FALCONS
by TJ Rosenthal for Football Reporters Online
Watch the You Tube Video Here
With three straight wins against struggling opponents, the 7-6 Jets come back to the Swamp this Sunday to face a once playoff bound team now fighting for its life as well, the 6-7 Atlanta Falcons. Losing starting QB Matt Ryan and one of the NFL's top RBs Michael Turner to injury has not helped. Still, the Falcons have other weapons, can still put up points, and have played some good teams tough. The Jets, once 3-0, will have to prove that their recent turnaround has been about THEM and about simply enjoying the weakest part of their schedule.
The big question in Jet camp is, will QB Mark Sanchez be playing? Barring any set backs, the NY Post reports that yes, Sanchez will return. It's a huge game for Gang Green in 2009. A win puts the Jets at 8-6 and perhaps ahead of a few of the four teams that remain tied for the last playoff spot in the AFC. The Jets won't however, risk the future of the Sanchise. The coaches will ask Sanchez for an accurate perosanl report on his progress since spraining the MCL in the left knee weeks back. Head coach Rex Ryan said. “He knows how important this game is to us. He knows that his safety is important to us. I think he’ll definitely be honest with us. He always has been.”
We all know the story that led to this by now right? The Jets brought in Yankee skipper Joe Girardi to teach the rookie how to slide. Days later, the rookie then went on instinct instead, falling head first in Toronto to gain a first down only to injure his other knee for the second straight time in two games. Sanchez didn't travel to Tampa the following week where backup Kellen Clemens threw erratically yet managed to not turn the ball over; a staple for the Jet game plan in 2009. Ground and pound, no interceptions, stifle THEIR offense with a smothering playmaking defense.
This strategy got the Jets off to a great start. Then Sanchez became interception happy as the Jets plummeted to 4-6. Out came the color coded wristband warning while reminding Sanchez of high risk throws at the wrong time. The interceptions decreased. The injury against the Bills though, left the Jets without their signal caller temporarily. From the looks of Clemens' performance against the horrid Bucs, the Jets will welcome back Sanchez with open arms. Atlanta does have the 29th ranked pass defense but is Clemens the guy who can expose that? From the looks of last week the answer is no.
The Jets will come into the game with the leagues top rushing offense in yards gained and top defense in yards allowed. Stats that certainly were bolstered over the past three weeks against sub par clubs . Carolina's star RB Deangelo Williams was not at full speed during the Jet win. Buffalo backup turned starting QB Ryan Fitzpatrick struck little fear while the Bills rushing D was ranked last in the NFL. Then came 1-11 Tampa Bay. Wins are win though and the Jets avoided three trap games, a feat in itself for a franchise that too often, gets trapped.
RB Thomas Jones, 4th in the league rushing at 1167 yards, is having an outstanding year. Jones will be called upon again to set the tone. For rookie RB Shonn Greene ball security issue has become a problem for offensive coordinator Brian Shottenheimer. Shotty would probably would love to integrate the big play Greene into the gameplan even more. Greene's yards per carry numbers have been solid each week (6-41 yds last week). . A team like the Jets, that is foundated on defense and no turnovers though, can't give the keys away to the castle to a guy who is holding them loosely like Greene has been. As for quarterback, if the reigns are handed over to Clemens again, he'll have to be better than he was last wee when he went 11-23 for a mere 111 yards. This while missing some very makable completions. The Jets feel though, that Clemens did what was asked of him “We have confidence in Kellen, I thought he managed the game exactly how we needed it,” Rex Ryan said.
Last week the Jets held the Bucs to zero first downs in the first half. Tampa was 0-14 on the day on third down. Darelle Revis once again shut down a top wideout, holding Antonio Bryant to just 22 yards. Falcons backup QB Chris Redman did not struggle last Sunday the way Bucs QB Josh Freeman did, in throwing for only 83 yards. Redman was 23-34 303 yds in last weeks loss to the Saints. Future hall of fame TE Tony Gonzalez (788 yds 5TDs) and WR Roddy White (915 yds 8 TDs) are a Falcon pair, who pose big threats in the passing game. The Jets will benefit however, if Turner remains sidelined. RBs Jerious Norwood and Jason Snelling though have combined for an average of 3.7 yards per carry, a far cry from Michael Turner's 4.9 a carry. Turner suffered a high ankle sprain and has missed two straight games. His status is day to day. Ryan suffered turf toe weeks back as well and is also day to day.
At the start of the season Atlanta was looking to grow from their 2008 playoff appearance in QB Ryan's rookie season. The addition of Gonzalez was thought to have been a key addition for a franchise with serious hopes of a deep postseason run in 2009. Once at 4-2 now at 6-7, the Falcons, like the Jets are still alive but need help and can't afford another loss.
For the Jets, it will get harder after Atlanta.The undefeated Colts and first place Bengals are the final two opponents on the schedule. Or maybe not. The Colts could be resting starters by then. The Bengals may be doing the same should they clinch the AFC North by then. Cincinnati will also be dealing with the sad loss of WR Chris Henry, who died this morning after falling out of a pickup truck during a domestic dispute. The Jet Report sends out it's condolences to the Henry family and the Bengals franchise. It will be a sad weekend for the entire league because of the Henry situation. Nonetheless, the games will go on. For the Jets, Sunday has become yet another win or else scenario.
THREE KEYS TO THE ATLANTA GAME
JET DEFENSE FORCING TURNOVERS: If Clemens is back the Jets will DEFINITELY need some short fields. Sanchez won't be at 100 percent if he does return, so let's hope those Revis and Kerry Rhodes interceptions keep coming. Three turnovers will go a long way for Gang Green Sunday.
THROW IT SMART, DON'T THROW SCARED: Clemens or Sanchez need to keep with the color coded wrist band and throw it smart but throw it effectively. Being conservative doesn't mean playing scared. Recently it seems as though both Jet QBs are passing while hoping NOT to get picked off. This pair needs to hit open guys. Leaving convertable plays on the field is not playing it safe. Jet passing yards need to come up as do the completion rates. We want over 50 percent completed and at least 175 to 200 yards in the air. That will seal the deal in a game the Jets have control of.
WATCH WOODHEAD: Danny Woodhead is getting more involved. Did you see the third down grab last week? Tough catch, nice run too. The Wayne Chrebet meets Wes Welker type rookie is a great asset to team with a conservative air attack. On a cold day, this guy could lineup in the slot or backfield. Look for him to move the chains or make a big play on Sunday as the Jets look to increase his role in December.
follow TJ Rosenthal on twitter @ thejetreport
Saturday, December 19, 2009
FRO’s Favorite Five” Frankie’s Favorite Fantasy Picks Week 15
“FRO’s Favorite Five”
Frankie’s Favorite Fantasy Picks
Week 15
By Frankie Underwood, Senior Fantasy Writer at www.footballreportersonline.com Email questions and comments to Frankie@footballreportersonline.com
Would you believe that I am benching Tom Brady this week in a playoff match up? Would you believe I got his replacement off the waiver wire this week? Believe It! The Washington Redskins are going through their yearly late season run, and QB Jason Campbell is leading the way. Campbell gets the NY Giants and their depleted secondary, with possibly the leagues worst pair of Safeties. Santana Moss has to be licking his chops. I wouldn’t be surprised is Carson Palmer and his Bengal teammates may show up in memory of their fallen WR Chris Henry.
It’s Rookie Running Back Weekend! Since I’m having difficulty narrowing it down I say get both Knowshon Moreno and Beanie Wells in this weekend. Moreno’s Denver Broncos are playing the Leagues 30th ranked Rush defense in the Oakland Raiders. Beanie Wells’ Arizona Cardinals is paired against the 24th ranked Detroit Lions Defense. Last week’s fav Jamal Charles has another great match up so leave him in.
Want a long shot WR? I’m deathly afraid of CB Nnamdi Asomugha, and Denver QB Kyle Orton should be also. Nnamdi will be all over Denver’s stud WR Brandon Marshall, leaving Eddie Royal to try and burn the other corner. Look for Royal to score his first receiving TD this weekend. Remember all of the short, almost screen, passes Marshall racked up last week, Eddie can do that too. I also like Antonio Bryant against Seattle; I just hope Josh Freeman can keep it together.
St. Louis TE Randy McMicheal is the longest shot I’ve taken all year, but I’m throwing it out there. St. Louis will be trying to play catch up with Houston. Houston Struggles against TEs. McMicheal has been targeted by both Kyle Boller and Keith Null over the last few weeks. That’s the best I can do. Bo Scaife and J. Finley also have nice match ups, but the McMicheal call will look better if it hits.
Ironically after choosing McMicheals as my TE, I’m selecting his opponent the Houston Texans as my Defense this week. After Tennessee killed the Rams last week, you can’t help but pick on them. Houston’s pass rush dominate St. Louis especially if Null is the QB again this week. The Arizona Cardinals get the Detroit Lions this week after the 49ers showed them what defenses are supposed to look like Monday night.
Last Weeks Favorite Five
Joe Flacco – 230 yards and one TD, Would have liked 2 TDs but that’ll work.
Jamal Charles – 143 yards, one TD, and 38 receiving yards. That’s what I like to see out of these picks.
Kenny Britt – 75 yards, really needed a TD to make this a worthy pick.
John Carlson – 24 yards and one TD, really wanted at least 70 yards but that’ll do.
Tennessee Titans – one sack, five interceptions, and a Defensive TD. That was a good call!
Extra Fantasy Advice
Nnamdi Asomugh, Darrelle Revis and Champ Bailey are shut down cornerbacks if you have a stud WR against one of these CBs and another seconds teir WR on the bench try this formula to pick your starter. Take your studs average points and half them (22= 11) if that’s less than your bench players average (or within 2 points) go with the bench player. Hard to do, but that’s my advice against these CBs
Frankie’s Favorite Fantasy Picks
Week 15
By Frankie Underwood, Senior Fantasy Writer at www.footballreportersonline.com Email questions and comments to Frankie@footballreportersonline.com
Would you believe that I am benching Tom Brady this week in a playoff match up? Would you believe I got his replacement off the waiver wire this week? Believe It! The Washington Redskins are going through their yearly late season run, and QB Jason Campbell is leading the way. Campbell gets the NY Giants and their depleted secondary, with possibly the leagues worst pair of Safeties. Santana Moss has to be licking his chops. I wouldn’t be surprised is Carson Palmer and his Bengal teammates may show up in memory of their fallen WR Chris Henry.
It’s Rookie Running Back Weekend! Since I’m having difficulty narrowing it down I say get both Knowshon Moreno and Beanie Wells in this weekend. Moreno’s Denver Broncos are playing the Leagues 30th ranked Rush defense in the Oakland Raiders. Beanie Wells’ Arizona Cardinals is paired against the 24th ranked Detroit Lions Defense. Last week’s fav Jamal Charles has another great match up so leave him in.
Want a long shot WR? I’m deathly afraid of CB Nnamdi Asomugha, and Denver QB Kyle Orton should be also. Nnamdi will be all over Denver’s stud WR Brandon Marshall, leaving Eddie Royal to try and burn the other corner. Look for Royal to score his first receiving TD this weekend. Remember all of the short, almost screen, passes Marshall racked up last week, Eddie can do that too. I also like Antonio Bryant against Seattle; I just hope Josh Freeman can keep it together.
St. Louis TE Randy McMicheal is the longest shot I’ve taken all year, but I’m throwing it out there. St. Louis will be trying to play catch up with Houston. Houston Struggles against TEs. McMicheal has been targeted by both Kyle Boller and Keith Null over the last few weeks. That’s the best I can do. Bo Scaife and J. Finley also have nice match ups, but the McMicheal call will look better if it hits.
Ironically after choosing McMicheals as my TE, I’m selecting his opponent the Houston Texans as my Defense this week. After Tennessee killed the Rams last week, you can’t help but pick on them. Houston’s pass rush dominate St. Louis especially if Null is the QB again this week. The Arizona Cardinals get the Detroit Lions this week after the 49ers showed them what defenses are supposed to look like Monday night.
Last Weeks Favorite Five
Joe Flacco – 230 yards and one TD, Would have liked 2 TDs but that’ll work.
Jamal Charles – 143 yards, one TD, and 38 receiving yards. That’s what I like to see out of these picks.
Kenny Britt – 75 yards, really needed a TD to make this a worthy pick.
John Carlson – 24 yards and one TD, really wanted at least 70 yards but that’ll do.
Tennessee Titans – one sack, five interceptions, and a Defensive TD. That was a good call!
Extra Fantasy Advice
Nnamdi Asomugh, Darrelle Revis and Champ Bailey are shut down cornerbacks if you have a stud WR against one of these CBs and another seconds teir WR on the bench try this formula to pick your starter. Take your studs average points and half them (22= 11) if that’s less than your bench players average (or within 2 points) go with the bench player. Hard to do, but that’s my advice against these CBs
FANTASY FOOTBALL TALK-Week13 Recap
FANTASY FOOTBALL TALK-By David Ortega for Football Reporters Online
Looking under the hood of Week 13
Brady and Moss not N'sync (yet)....
Even though Tom Brady has passed for more than 300 yards in two of his last four games, over that stretch Moss has not caught more than five passes for more than 67 yards in any one of those games. Even though the two seem to be slightly disconnected, they have managed to hook up 69 times, including nine times for scores this season. With Moss coming off one of his worst games to date, it would be too premature to write off "The Freak." The Patriots are still in the hunt for the post season and will be one of the AFC's more dangerous teams with Moss and Wes Welker (105 receptions this season). Brady and his deep threat may be out of step, but it's just a matter of time before these two again find their rhythm.
Warner and Cards got plucked Monday night....
The Cardinals were expecting to lock up the division on Monday night, but instead they found themselves right in the middle of a buzz-saw. One of the Cardinals short-comings this season has been their struggling ground game and now suddenly it has a case of fumble-itus. On Monday night the backfield coughed up the ball three times and in its last three games has rushed for less than 86 yards. With the unreliable rushing attack, this could be a big indication that the Cardinals will have to turn to Warner and the passing game going forward. Warner has had his struggles, but before the Monday night fiasco he had thrown 14 touchdowns in his previous five starts. Expect Warner to lead the way down the stretch and throughout the post season.
More fantasy Notes
Although the Colts don't appear to have much to play for from this point going forward, don't expect Peyton and company to ease off the gas. This is a team capable of doing as much damage in a single half as most teams do in a full game. That will be the concern of many fantasy owners looking toward Week 15, but one they may not need be so worried about. The Jaguars defense(ranked 26th against the pass) is in shambles with injuries and poor play. This Colts team is lead by Peyton and the passing game and he could easily post winnable fantasy numbers by half, so owners should not consider sitting him this week.
The Cowboys defense struggled terribly against the vertical attack of the San Diego Chargers and remember the Saints are no breeze either. With (WR) Marques Colston and (TE) Jeremy Shockey presenting very easy to find targets with their huge stature, and the Saints very animated about their pursuit to keep winning fantasy owners can bet Brees will be "bringing it" to the Boys on Saturday. The Saints quarterback has turned into a touchdown maker with 13 scoring throws in his last four starts. His (Brees) recent play make Colston, Meachem, and Shockey inviting plays this week too.
The Eagles are facing a tough divisional matchup on Sunday against the Redskins, but don't expect them to wander to far from the formula that is working well. On Sunday night against the Giants, without Brian Westbrook and rookie receiver Jeremy Maclin, McNabb has made the most of what he has and got the most from his best weapon; DeSean Jackson. The Eagles second year receiver has been electric this season with eight touchdowns of 50 yards or more. Jackson leads the club with 947 yards receiving and will undoubtedly be targeted heavily against the Redskins. Fantasy owners can expect Reid to keep the plan simple; put the game in the hands of his playmakers. McNabb has been solid the past five weeks throwing eight touchdowns and averaging 290 yards passing per game.
Singletary Doesn't Play Around
Singletary Doesn't Play Around
By J [The Gambler] Gamble For Football Reporters Online
Mike Singletary doesn’t care what the critics say about his brash tactics. He knows what it takes to win and he plans on embarrassing his team to victory, if he has to.
The Hall of Fame linebacker and ferocious leader of the 85’ Bears - widely recognized as the NFL’s best modern day defense –took over for Mike Nolan in 08’. Nolan was known for defending his player’s shortcomings. He was also infamous for his 18-37 record in four and a half seasons as 49er’s head coach. Nolan’s tolerance of: losing, juvenile tactics and immature, selfish behavior, wore thin on fans and management.
Singletary’s approach couldn’t be more different. He asserted his leadership and control in unprecedented fashion, publicly berating and then banishing star Vernon Davis to the locker room following a 15-yard penalty for tapping an opposing player’s helmet.
Generally, players are never openly reprimanded on the side lines, so for Singletary to tell Davis to take the long walk into the locker room in front of thousands of fans was shocking. It also showed Singletary was willing to do anything to get SanFran back on the winning track. I mean, he hit the ground running. In his inaugural game as head coach, Singletary dropped his pants and pointed to his buttocks during halftime of a 34-13 loss to the Seahawks. He was uninspired with his team’s play and graphically let them know. He was blasted in the media for that as well. The most genius part is how he continued to berate them for several minutes with his pants around his ankles. It was surely a sight imprinted in the mind of his players forever.
If Singletary can also imprint his championship pedigree, then these stories will become that of legend. It has been a while since the NFL had an animated coach like a Jerry Glanville, Bill Parcells, Bum Phillips or Buddy Ryan. Singletary’s “man-to man”, iron-fist approach is a refreshing change from the modern–day coaches who allow individual players to run amuck of the rules and team philosophy.
With his team steadily improving, building an identity, and coming off a 24-9 thrashing of first-place Arizona, Singletary has eased on the shock value. The passion and animated aggression remains. His intelligence, even as a player, has always been his greatest asset. The 49er defense displayed all of these traits on Sunday, sacking Kurt Warner four times and picking him twice.
The pundits, who called Singletary’s actions inappropriate, have to be rethinking things. Others said the rich, sensitive athletes of today wouldn’t take well to his coaching style, and strict code of accountability. Singletary knew he couldn’t change his team’s current losing culture, unprofessional antics, and lazy work ethic, without getting everyone’s attention. And boy did he ever.
With the verdict still out on Alex Smith, The 49er’s lack a big-time quarterback. They have relied on aggressive defense, shrewd play-calling and the feet of Frank Gore, to show growth at 6-7 with slight playoff hopes. It seems the old warrior knows what he is doing. Why wouldn’t he? During his illustrious career he won Division titles, Pro Bowls and a championship. He was a hands-on defensive signal caller and relentless ball hawk. The rebirth of every franchise begins with a money quarterback, smothering defense and a process of devotion to excellence. The 49ers have two of the three, and a perfect head dude in Singletary.
By J [The Gambler] Gamble For Football Reporters Online
Mike Singletary doesn’t care what the critics say about his brash tactics. He knows what it takes to win and he plans on embarrassing his team to victory, if he has to.
The Hall of Fame linebacker and ferocious leader of the 85’ Bears - widely recognized as the NFL’s best modern day defense –took over for Mike Nolan in 08’. Nolan was known for defending his player’s shortcomings. He was also infamous for his 18-37 record in four and a half seasons as 49er’s head coach. Nolan’s tolerance of: losing, juvenile tactics and immature, selfish behavior, wore thin on fans and management.
Singletary’s approach couldn’t be more different. He asserted his leadership and control in unprecedented fashion, publicly berating and then banishing star Vernon Davis to the locker room following a 15-yard penalty for tapping an opposing player’s helmet.
Generally, players are never openly reprimanded on the side lines, so for Singletary to tell Davis to take the long walk into the locker room in front of thousands of fans was shocking. It also showed Singletary was willing to do anything to get SanFran back on the winning track. I mean, he hit the ground running. In his inaugural game as head coach, Singletary dropped his pants and pointed to his buttocks during halftime of a 34-13 loss to the Seahawks. He was uninspired with his team’s play and graphically let them know. He was blasted in the media for that as well. The most genius part is how he continued to berate them for several minutes with his pants around his ankles. It was surely a sight imprinted in the mind of his players forever.
If Singletary can also imprint his championship pedigree, then these stories will become that of legend. It has been a while since the NFL had an animated coach like a Jerry Glanville, Bill Parcells, Bum Phillips or Buddy Ryan. Singletary’s “man-to man”, iron-fist approach is a refreshing change from the modern–day coaches who allow individual players to run amuck of the rules and team philosophy.
With his team steadily improving, building an identity, and coming off a 24-9 thrashing of first-place Arizona, Singletary has eased on the shock value. The passion and animated aggression remains. His intelligence, even as a player, has always been his greatest asset. The 49er defense displayed all of these traits on Sunday, sacking Kurt Warner four times and picking him twice.
The pundits, who called Singletary’s actions inappropriate, have to be rethinking things. Others said the rich, sensitive athletes of today wouldn’t take well to his coaching style, and strict code of accountability. Singletary knew he couldn’t change his team’s current losing culture, unprofessional antics, and lazy work ethic, without getting everyone’s attention. And boy did he ever.
With the verdict still out on Alex Smith, The 49er’s lack a big-time quarterback. They have relied on aggressive defense, shrewd play-calling and the feet of Frank Gore, to show growth at 6-7 with slight playoff hopes. It seems the old warrior knows what he is doing. Why wouldn’t he? During his illustrious career he won Division titles, Pro Bowls and a championship. He was a hands-on defensive signal caller and relentless ball hawk. The rebirth of every franchise begins with a money quarterback, smothering defense and a process of devotion to excellence. The 49ers have two of the three, and a perfect head dude in Singletary.
Is God watching in Dallas? And if so, is he pissed?
Is God watching in Dallas? And if so, is he pissed?
by Drew Moss for Football Reporters Online
The swoon is in full swing.
The Dallas Cowboys continued their horrendous December efforts under Wade Phillips, falling to 0-2 this December by losing to Norv Turner’s San Diego Chargers 20-17 Sunday at Dallas Stadium.
For America’s team, with their 90,000 pairs of 3-D glasses and egregious video screens – It’s a lot of ugly to behold. And a lot of ugly to stomach. Just ask the twisted wizard behind this obnoxious curtain of silver and blue. “This is a bitter pill to swallow here at home… it’s a setback,” understated Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.
At the hands of Turner and the surging Chargers, it’s more like a smackdown.
Lest Jones forget, the media (why is Jerry Jones holding a press conference after a regular season loss by the way?!) was very quick to remind him of Turner’s comeuppance. Even after his Super Bowl winning efforts as an offensive coordinator under Jimmy Johnson, Jones passed Turner over for Wade Phillips after Bill Parcells’ departure in 2007. Phillips is 3-7 in December as Cowboys head coach, and 0-1 in one January playoff appearance. Turner is 11-0 in December with San Diego.
At 8-5, the loss left the Cowboys looking up at the Eagles after Philly’s 45-38 shootout win over the New York Giants (will someone in this division make a tackle please?!) and also left them looking down the barrel at a date with the undefeated New Orleans Saints in New Orleans this upcoming weekend. The Cowboys are still talking semi-tough, but looking over their shoulder as they do it.
Efficient (19 for 30 passing, 249 yards, two TD’s, no picks) but uninspiring Cowboys quarterback expressed just such lukewarm confidence, “We just have to play better football. We can talk about it after it happens, but… we all just need to do it.”
“Doing it” on special teams, the offensive line or the offensive coordinator’s booth might be good places to look first. Start the debacle, with Nick Folk’s hooked 42 yarder early. (It’s Folk’s fifth consecutive game with a missed FG-attempt – his job is now in jeopardy). Add to this the Chargers no-brainer three play goal line stand against the obvious Marion Barber and yo uhave th emakings of a long day – and a long December.
Said Chargers linebacker Tim Dobbins (didn’t we see him in Bull Durham?), the next day in the Dallas Morning News,” In our mind, we knew he wasn’t blocking. He’s not getting paid to block.”
So in a huge spot, Dobbins and the Chargers defense did the only thing you can do in Big D - they followed the money. And in doing so, they stuffed Barber, took the ball back on downs, took the life out of the Cowboys - and maybe took the life out of the Cowboys’ entire season. Right in their own house.
That’s a big house. With a big ol’ hole in the roof. And a big ol’ price tag. And a big ol’ bag of late season woes. And if God is indeed watching as they say he is, he’s got a big ol’ scowl on his/her face.
Through it all, even though he shouldn’t be speaking at all, Jerry Jones is still talking tough.
“We have a team that’s capable of beating any opponent,” Jones asserted. Then after sharing some “personal triumph over credit card debt” rant that he used to inspire his beaten down team in the post-game locker room, through a sea of microphones he re-assured the Dallas faithful, “I know what hard times are like in Texas, and I know we can overcome it.”
How inspiring. Prophetic even. Maybe Jerry Jones knows something - or someone - we don’t. If so, he better check in upstairs. And if not, maybe he should be looking over his shoulder at that hole in the roof, too.
by Drew Moss for Football Reporters Online
The swoon is in full swing.
The Dallas Cowboys continued their horrendous December efforts under Wade Phillips, falling to 0-2 this December by losing to Norv Turner’s San Diego Chargers 20-17 Sunday at Dallas Stadium.
For America’s team, with their 90,000 pairs of 3-D glasses and egregious video screens – It’s a lot of ugly to behold. And a lot of ugly to stomach. Just ask the twisted wizard behind this obnoxious curtain of silver and blue. “This is a bitter pill to swallow here at home… it’s a setback,” understated Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.
At the hands of Turner and the surging Chargers, it’s more like a smackdown.
Lest Jones forget, the media (why is Jerry Jones holding a press conference after a regular season loss by the way?!) was very quick to remind him of Turner’s comeuppance. Even after his Super Bowl winning efforts as an offensive coordinator under Jimmy Johnson, Jones passed Turner over for Wade Phillips after Bill Parcells’ departure in 2007. Phillips is 3-7 in December as Cowboys head coach, and 0-1 in one January playoff appearance. Turner is 11-0 in December with San Diego.
At 8-5, the loss left the Cowboys looking up at the Eagles after Philly’s 45-38 shootout win over the New York Giants (will someone in this division make a tackle please?!) and also left them looking down the barrel at a date with the undefeated New Orleans Saints in New Orleans this upcoming weekend. The Cowboys are still talking semi-tough, but looking over their shoulder as they do it.
Efficient (19 for 30 passing, 249 yards, two TD’s, no picks) but uninspiring Cowboys quarterback expressed just such lukewarm confidence, “We just have to play better football. We can talk about it after it happens, but… we all just need to do it.”
“Doing it” on special teams, the offensive line or the offensive coordinator’s booth might be good places to look first. Start the debacle, with Nick Folk’s hooked 42 yarder early. (It’s Folk’s fifth consecutive game with a missed FG-attempt – his job is now in jeopardy). Add to this the Chargers no-brainer three play goal line stand against the obvious Marion Barber and yo uhave th emakings of a long day – and a long December.
Said Chargers linebacker Tim Dobbins (didn’t we see him in Bull Durham?), the next day in the Dallas Morning News,” In our mind, we knew he wasn’t blocking. He’s not getting paid to block.”
So in a huge spot, Dobbins and the Chargers defense did the only thing you can do in Big D - they followed the money. And in doing so, they stuffed Barber, took the ball back on downs, took the life out of the Cowboys - and maybe took the life out of the Cowboys’ entire season. Right in their own house.
That’s a big house. With a big ol’ hole in the roof. And a big ol’ price tag. And a big ol’ bag of late season woes. And if God is indeed watching as they say he is, he’s got a big ol’ scowl on his/her face.
Through it all, even though he shouldn’t be speaking at all, Jerry Jones is still talking tough.
“We have a team that’s capable of beating any opponent,” Jones asserted. Then after sharing some “personal triumph over credit card debt” rant that he used to inspire his beaten down team in the post-game locker room, through a sea of microphones he re-assured the Dallas faithful, “I know what hard times are like in Texas, and I know we can overcome it.”
How inspiring. Prophetic even. Maybe Jerry Jones knows something - or someone - we don’t. If so, he better check in upstairs. And if not, maybe he should be looking over his shoulder at that hole in the roof, too.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Giants Drop a Tough One to the Hated Eagles
Giants Drop a Tough One to the Hated Eagles
The NY Giants came into this game tonight needing a win over the Eagles in the worst way. They couldn't come up with one, and so goes their season. In dropping the second game of the year to the birds, NY has no chance to win the NFC eastern Division, and must now win the final three games against the Redskins, Panthers, and Vikings just to win 10 games and get into post season play. We will have a full recap, but three players who had tough days for NY on Offense were Brandon Jacobs, Eli Manning, and Mario Manningham. This was their last game against the Eagles in Giants Stadium, with all the motivation in the world, and while they never gave up, they made plenty of mistakes in the loss. Including a sack and fumble on the very last play on offense. the Giants allowed 4 turnovers and several big plays, including a defensive touchdown, a punt return for a touchdown, and a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown. The Giants drop to a 7-6 record and are once again hanging by a thread in the playoff race. No joy in "wetville" tonight folks.
The NY Giants came into this game tonight needing a win over the Eagles in the worst way. They couldn't come up with one, and so goes their season. In dropping the second game of the year to the birds, NY has no chance to win the NFC eastern Division, and must now win the final three games against the Redskins, Panthers, and Vikings just to win 10 games and get into post season play. We will have a full recap, but three players who had tough days for NY on Offense were Brandon Jacobs, Eli Manning, and Mario Manningham. This was their last game against the Eagles in Giants Stadium, with all the motivation in the world, and while they never gave up, they made plenty of mistakes in the loss. Including a sack and fumble on the very last play on offense. the Giants allowed 4 turnovers and several big plays, including a defensive touchdown, a punt return for a touchdown, and a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown. The Giants drop to a 7-6 record and are once again hanging by a thread in the playoff race. No joy in "wetville" tonight folks.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
WEEK 14 FANTASY SLEEPER
WEEK 14 FANTASY SLEEPER
By William Queen for Football Reporters Online
Nearing the end of the regular season, fantasy football fans are thinking of only one word; playoffs. Over the course of the season, I’ve provided a fantasy sleeper every week to help you out with who to bench and who to start. Well Washington Redskins running back Quinton Ganther takes the spot as week 14’s fantasy sleeper; if you need an extra boost this week, this is the guy to get.
Only 21% of fantasy leagues have this guy on a roster. And only 12% start him. So, needless to say, no one knows who he is. However, that doesn’t mean he can’t rack up fantasy points. Not getting a rushing attempt till the 10th week of the season, Ganther was simply an unknown backup. But, hence to two season-ending injuries suffered by backs in front of him, Ganther has his shot.
This is Ganther’s first career start, meaning that he’ll be looking to impress and hopefully take over in the Redskins backfield for the rest of the season. And lucky him, guess who’s lining up on defense? Only the worst rush defense in the NFL; the Oakland Raiders.
Allowing nearly 160 yards rushing per game, the Raiders think they’re catching a break with Ganther in the backfield. But little do they know that the Washington Redskins, along with back Quinton Ganther, will be looking for revenge after they’re suffering a painful 33-30 overtime loss vs. the Saints.
By William Queen for Football Reporters Online
Nearing the end of the regular season, fantasy football fans are thinking of only one word; playoffs. Over the course of the season, I’ve provided a fantasy sleeper every week to help you out with who to bench and who to start. Well Washington Redskins running back Quinton Ganther takes the spot as week 14’s fantasy sleeper; if you need an extra boost this week, this is the guy to get.
Only 21% of fantasy leagues have this guy on a roster. And only 12% start him. So, needless to say, no one knows who he is. However, that doesn’t mean he can’t rack up fantasy points. Not getting a rushing attempt till the 10th week of the season, Ganther was simply an unknown backup. But, hence to two season-ending injuries suffered by backs in front of him, Ganther has his shot.
This is Ganther’s first career start, meaning that he’ll be looking to impress and hopefully take over in the Redskins backfield for the rest of the season. And lucky him, guess who’s lining up on defense? Only the worst rush defense in the NFL; the Oakland Raiders.
Allowing nearly 160 yards rushing per game, the Raiders think they’re catching a break with Ganther in the backfield. But little do they know that the Washington Redskins, along with back Quinton Ganther, will be looking for revenge after they’re suffering a painful 33-30 overtime loss vs. the Saints.
JETS TAKE ON BUCS WITHOUT SANCHEZ
JETS TAKE ON BUCS WITHOUT SANCHEZ
by TJ Rosenthal for Football Reporters Online
watch the jet report for week 14 with T,J, and Griff at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbLk4SHhSLw&feature=sub
The 6-6 Jets head South to Tampa to take on the 1-11 Bucs as the march towards the playoffs continues. To keep it rolling the Jets are going to have to do it without QB Mark Sanchez whose knee sprain suffered on the scramble in Buffalo has forced head coach Rex Ryan to err on the side of caution. Kellen Clemens takes over as signal caller in a must win for the Jets, plain and simple.
The Jets currently find themselves in a 6-6 logjam with the Dolphins, Steelers and Ravens. Gang Green and the other .500 AFC East clubs are chasing the 7-5 Jaguars who beat the Jets weeks back in a game that looms large with tie breaker implications going against the Jets should both teams finish with the same record. That said, the Bucs game is huge with banged up Atlanta on deck. After that the undefeated Colts and first place Bengals await. There's no room for error this weekend. 8-6 is essential if the Jets want to keep it going past Christmas.
Clemens replaced Sanchez in the third quarter last Thursday against Buffalo and was rusty. The fourth year QB lost his footing on a few occasions, fumbled a snap, and was stripped on a rollout near the Jet goal line. Sunday will be Clemens first start since the final game in 2007, a win over the hapless Chiefs. “Yeah, I’m coming off a one-game winning streak,’’ Clemens said. “That’s 23 months ago … it seems like a long time ago.’’
Fortunately for Clemens the gameplan may be the same. Ground and Pound. Buffalo was ranked 32nd in rushing defense going into last week. The Jets, the number one rushing team in the NFL at 168.6 yards per game lived up to their average in week 13. The RB combo of Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene rushed for 168 yards combined. Tampa comes into the game ranked 31st. Clemens will need to manage the game, make solid decisions, move the chains at times, and like Sanchez, not make unforced errors. The truth is though, Sunday will again be about the run game.
Can Clemens lead the Jets to a win? He says that he just has to do his job. Nothing more. This IS a 1-11 opponent. Coach Rex Ryan is showing faith in his backup. “I have a lot of confidence in Kellen Clemens; this football team has confidence in Kellen.’’ The colorful rookie head coach also provided insight as to how Sanchez took the news of the benching. “He’s mad as a hornet at me. But that’s good. I was mad at him (for not sliding Thursday) and now he’s mad at me, so we’re even.’’
Buccaneers rookie head coach Raheem Morris inserted Josh Freeman into the starting lineup during the middle of the season.The rookie QB led the Bucs to their only win, a 38-28 victory over Green Bay four weeks back in which 2009's 17th overall pick in the April NFL draft tossed three TDs. Last week Freeman threw for 321 yards no TDs, and five picks in a loss to the 4-7 Panthers. WR Antonio Bryant had 116 of those receiving yards, and appears to have shaken off the injury bug that has plagued the clubs top wideout all year. TE Kellen Winslow Jr provides Freeman with another threat in the passing game and the once oft injured RB Cadillac Williams who gained 92 yards last week can get loose from time to time. The Jets defense however, is ranked second in the NFL giving up just 276 yards per game (Green Bay is first at 273 yds given up on average). The front four will need to contain Williams while the Jet ground game tries to control the tempo in the first half.
CB Darelle Revis is coming off yet another sensational performance in holding hot WR Terrell Owens to a mere 30 yards. CB Lito Shephard kept speedy Lee Evans to just 40 yards and was aggressive playing the ball, almost turning a few Ryan Fitzpatrick throws into ints. LB David Harris is heating up again. Last week in Toronto, Harris had 11 tackles and was a force all game. If the Jet top defenders like Revis, Harris, LB Bart Scott can continue to have the presence they lacked during their November swoon, yet have regained in wins over Carolina and Buffalo the load will be even lighter for Clemens. At 6-6, this is no time for the Jets to take a step back. One false move in Tampa and 2009 is history.
THREE KEYS TO THE TAMPA BAY GAME
CLEMENS DO YOUR JOB: He said it. I just have to do my job. He's right. 150 passing yards, no bad ints backed up deep, and that could be enough. Remeber, he relieve Chad Pennington in 2007 and almost rescue the Jets in Baltimore early in the season.
ANTONIO BRYANT: and CADILLAC WILLIAMS Bryant's their one big play threat.
Finally he's healthy. Darelle Revis has shut everyone down in 2009. He'll need to do it again. Keep Bryant quiet and Williams modest and keeping the Bucs from stealing this game becomes that much easier.
EDWARDS, CATCH THE BALL: Kellen Clemens will need the WRs to hold onto catchable balls Sunday. The throws will be few and far between. Some may be deep shots, most third downs and manageable yardage. Clemens confidence will grow as the chains move. Extra focus is needed by Braylon Sunday. A long drop or a key third down muff this week could be costly.
follow TJ Rosenthal on Twitter @ thejetreport
by TJ Rosenthal for Football Reporters Online
watch the jet report for week 14 with T,J, and Griff at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbLk4SHhSLw&feature=sub
The 6-6 Jets head South to Tampa to take on the 1-11 Bucs as the march towards the playoffs continues. To keep it rolling the Jets are going to have to do it without QB Mark Sanchez whose knee sprain suffered on the scramble in Buffalo has forced head coach Rex Ryan to err on the side of caution. Kellen Clemens takes over as signal caller in a must win for the Jets, plain and simple.
The Jets currently find themselves in a 6-6 logjam with the Dolphins, Steelers and Ravens. Gang Green and the other .500 AFC East clubs are chasing the 7-5 Jaguars who beat the Jets weeks back in a game that looms large with tie breaker implications going against the Jets should both teams finish with the same record. That said, the Bucs game is huge with banged up Atlanta on deck. After that the undefeated Colts and first place Bengals await. There's no room for error this weekend. 8-6 is essential if the Jets want to keep it going past Christmas.
Clemens replaced Sanchez in the third quarter last Thursday against Buffalo and was rusty. The fourth year QB lost his footing on a few occasions, fumbled a snap, and was stripped on a rollout near the Jet goal line. Sunday will be Clemens first start since the final game in 2007, a win over the hapless Chiefs. “Yeah, I’m coming off a one-game winning streak,’’ Clemens said. “That’s 23 months ago … it seems like a long time ago.’’
Fortunately for Clemens the gameplan may be the same. Ground and Pound. Buffalo was ranked 32nd in rushing defense going into last week. The Jets, the number one rushing team in the NFL at 168.6 yards per game lived up to their average in week 13. The RB combo of Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene rushed for 168 yards combined. Tampa comes into the game ranked 31st. Clemens will need to manage the game, make solid decisions, move the chains at times, and like Sanchez, not make unforced errors. The truth is though, Sunday will again be about the run game.
Can Clemens lead the Jets to a win? He says that he just has to do his job. Nothing more. This IS a 1-11 opponent. Coach Rex Ryan is showing faith in his backup. “I have a lot of confidence in Kellen Clemens; this football team has confidence in Kellen.’’ The colorful rookie head coach also provided insight as to how Sanchez took the news of the benching. “He’s mad as a hornet at me. But that’s good. I was mad at him (for not sliding Thursday) and now he’s mad at me, so we’re even.’’
Buccaneers rookie head coach Raheem Morris inserted Josh Freeman into the starting lineup during the middle of the season.The rookie QB led the Bucs to their only win, a 38-28 victory over Green Bay four weeks back in which 2009's 17th overall pick in the April NFL draft tossed three TDs. Last week Freeman threw for 321 yards no TDs, and five picks in a loss to the 4-7 Panthers. WR Antonio Bryant had 116 of those receiving yards, and appears to have shaken off the injury bug that has plagued the clubs top wideout all year. TE Kellen Winslow Jr provides Freeman with another threat in the passing game and the once oft injured RB Cadillac Williams who gained 92 yards last week can get loose from time to time. The Jets defense however, is ranked second in the NFL giving up just 276 yards per game (Green Bay is first at 273 yds given up on average). The front four will need to contain Williams while the Jet ground game tries to control the tempo in the first half.
CB Darelle Revis is coming off yet another sensational performance in holding hot WR Terrell Owens to a mere 30 yards. CB Lito Shephard kept speedy Lee Evans to just 40 yards and was aggressive playing the ball, almost turning a few Ryan Fitzpatrick throws into ints. LB David Harris is heating up again. Last week in Toronto, Harris had 11 tackles and was a force all game. If the Jet top defenders like Revis, Harris, LB Bart Scott can continue to have the presence they lacked during their November swoon, yet have regained in wins over Carolina and Buffalo the load will be even lighter for Clemens. At 6-6, this is no time for the Jets to take a step back. One false move in Tampa and 2009 is history.
THREE KEYS TO THE TAMPA BAY GAME
CLEMENS DO YOUR JOB: He said it. I just have to do my job. He's right. 150 passing yards, no bad ints backed up deep, and that could be enough. Remeber, he relieve Chad Pennington in 2007 and almost rescue the Jets in Baltimore early in the season.
ANTONIO BRYANT: and CADILLAC WILLIAMS Bryant's their one big play threat.
Finally he's healthy. Darelle Revis has shut everyone down in 2009. He'll need to do it again. Keep Bryant quiet and Williams modest and keeping the Bucs from stealing this game becomes that much easier.
EDWARDS, CATCH THE BALL: Kellen Clemens will need the WRs to hold onto catchable balls Sunday. The throws will be few and far between. Some may be deep shots, most third downs and manageable yardage. Clemens confidence will grow as the chains move. Extra focus is needed by Braylon Sunday. A long drop or a key third down muff this week could be costly.
follow TJ Rosenthal on Twitter @ thejetreport
FRO’s Favorite Five” Frankie’s Favorite Fantasy Picks Week 14
“FRO’s Favorite Five”
Frankie’s Favorite Fantasy Picks
Week 14
By Frankie Underwood, Senior Fantasy Writer at www.footballreportersonline.com Email questions and comments to Frankie@footballreportersonline.com
Joe Flacco started the first few games of the season like a top 5 fantasy QB, but as the season went on that ranking has dropped. This weekend the Lions and their league worst pass defense is coming to town. Although the Detroit Lions run defense isn’t much better the Ravens should look at this game as a great chance to work the kinks out of that passing game. With Pittsburgh’s recent downfall Baltimore is in prime position to move up into one of the wildcard positions. By the way, it’s December and that means it is time for Eli Manning to shine again.
Can I honestly recommend a Kansas City Chief? Well at home against the leagues worst rushing defense; I’ll have to put it out there. Last week against a nice Denver run defense Jamal Charles managed 65 yards and one TD. This week with a possible QB controversy in town, the Chiefs should run the ball into the ground. With Kellen Clemens starting for the Injured Mark Sanchez, rookie RB Shonn Greene could get some additional carries as the Jets attempt to run the ball on a poor Tampa Bay defense.
Rookie Titans WR Kenny Britt is primed for another great game. This weekend against an injury riddled St. Louis Rams secondary Britt should easily continue his streak of playable fantasy performances. As a bonus, if your league allows return yardage and TDs to count for offensive players, Britt seems to have locked up the kick returner position and looks like he’ll break one soon. With Robert Meachem drawing attention as New Orleans travels to Atlanta, don’t forget that Devery Henderson is the dome receiver.
TE John Carlson hasn’t been the fantasy stud that most people anticipated this off season, this weekend he may live up to it. This week Carlson’s Seattle Seahawks travel south to Houston to face a Texans team that historically struggles against TEs. Last week 2 different TEs from Jacksonville lead the team in receiving, and Dallas Clark put up 63 yards and a TD the week before. Greg Olsen against Green Bay would be my second possible sleeper TE.
The Tennessee Titans defense should be ready to feast on the St. Louis Rams. This team is starting a back up QB, and receivers found anywhere they could, but they do have a stud RB that could pose the biggest threat. The Titans to need the birdman Bud Adams to tell Coach Jeff Fisher that he needs to start CB Rod Hood over Nick Harper and opposite Cortland Finnegan. New Orleans and Baltimore are also nice Defenses this weekend.
Last Weeks Favorite Five
Jay Cutler – 14 yards and one TD, wanted more but It’ll do.
Rashard Mendenhall – 103 yards and one TD, that’s about what I expect out of these picks maybe a few more yards.
Jason Avant – 36 yards, not even close, sorry.
Zach Miller – 43 yards, really wanted a score but that’ll do.
San Diego Chargers – Two sacks, one Fumble recovered, but allowed 23 points to Cleveland, sorry.
Frankie’s Favorite Fantasy Picks
Week 14
By Frankie Underwood, Senior Fantasy Writer at www.footballreportersonline.com Email questions and comments to Frankie@footballreportersonline.com
Joe Flacco started the first few games of the season like a top 5 fantasy QB, but as the season went on that ranking has dropped. This weekend the Lions and their league worst pass defense is coming to town. Although the Detroit Lions run defense isn’t much better the Ravens should look at this game as a great chance to work the kinks out of that passing game. With Pittsburgh’s recent downfall Baltimore is in prime position to move up into one of the wildcard positions. By the way, it’s December and that means it is time for Eli Manning to shine again.
Can I honestly recommend a Kansas City Chief? Well at home against the leagues worst rushing defense; I’ll have to put it out there. Last week against a nice Denver run defense Jamal Charles managed 65 yards and one TD. This week with a possible QB controversy in town, the Chiefs should run the ball into the ground. With Kellen Clemens starting for the Injured Mark Sanchez, rookie RB Shonn Greene could get some additional carries as the Jets attempt to run the ball on a poor Tampa Bay defense.
Rookie Titans WR Kenny Britt is primed for another great game. This weekend against an injury riddled St. Louis Rams secondary Britt should easily continue his streak of playable fantasy performances. As a bonus, if your league allows return yardage and TDs to count for offensive players, Britt seems to have locked up the kick returner position and looks like he’ll break one soon. With Robert Meachem drawing attention as New Orleans travels to Atlanta, don’t forget that Devery Henderson is the dome receiver.
TE John Carlson hasn’t been the fantasy stud that most people anticipated this off season, this weekend he may live up to it. This week Carlson’s Seattle Seahawks travel south to Houston to face a Texans team that historically struggles against TEs. Last week 2 different TEs from Jacksonville lead the team in receiving, and Dallas Clark put up 63 yards and a TD the week before. Greg Olsen against Green Bay would be my second possible sleeper TE.
The Tennessee Titans defense should be ready to feast on the St. Louis Rams. This team is starting a back up QB, and receivers found anywhere they could, but they do have a stud RB that could pose the biggest threat. The Titans to need the birdman Bud Adams to tell Coach Jeff Fisher that he needs to start CB Rod Hood over Nick Harper and opposite Cortland Finnegan. New Orleans and Baltimore are also nice Defenses this weekend.
Last Weeks Favorite Five
Jay Cutler – 14 yards and one TD, wanted more but It’ll do.
Rashard Mendenhall – 103 yards and one TD, that’s about what I expect out of these picks maybe a few more yards.
Jason Avant – 36 yards, not even close, sorry.
Zach Miller – 43 yards, really wanted a score but that’ll do.
San Diego Chargers – Two sacks, one Fumble recovered, but allowed 23 points to Cleveland, sorry.
AFC South Week 13 Wrap Up
AFC South Week 13 Wrap Up
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
Indianapolis 27 Tennessee 17
You have to give it to these Titans when it comes to effort. They turned the ball over at critical times and did not score when they needed to but stayed with the Colts nonetheless. First off, the Colts tied the regular season record for consecutive wins, and stayed undefeated in the process. Peyton Manning was not his usual dominating self but was able to move the football like always and give Joseph Addai time to shine. He gave his team a season-high 79 hard fought yards on 21 carries and was able to get into the end zone twice. Pierre Garcon had a good game with six catches for a career-high 136 yards to help his team. The real story was the Titans penchant for mistakes. There was the Nate Washington drop of a Young pass that was a sure touchdown. There was Ahmard Hall’s fumble that killed a promising drive. An interception by Young did not help and then there was the fumble near the goal line that cost the Titans a touchdown. On the next play LenDale White ran it to the one but the play was called back for holding. The drive ended with a failed fourth-down try and the next drive ended the same way. Later others would say that they should have kicked field goals in those situations but it is too easy to look back. They out gained the Colts and held the ball five minutes more than Indy. Chris Johnson was held in relative check but got 113 yards to go over 100 yards rushing for the seventh straight game. He now has 1,509 yards and needs to average 149 yards over the last four games to tie the record with 2,105. So now they go back to the drawing board and that starts with St. Louis next week. It is a game they should win and a game that can pad Johnson’s stats. Most of all, it is the first game of four they must win and help will be needed. The Colts will now look at hosting the Broncos next week with a chance to match their best start ever at 13-0.
Jacksonville 23 Houston 18
A season gone bad just keeps getting worse for the Texans. With the hope of a playoff run gone, Houston was now looking to at least get back in the win column. What they managed to do was seal their postseason fate in a game full of mistakes. They threw three interceptions from three different players. The call on one of them was in question as Houston faced first and goal from the five. For some reason head coach Gary Kubiak gave the okay for a trick play down 23-12. The play called for running back Chris Brown to take the handoff and pass it to TE Joel Dreessen. The problem was Brown took the handoff and was pressured by CB Tyron Brackenridge. He got hit and threw the ball into the hands of Gerald Alexander and the drive was dead. Rex Grossman threw another one of the interceptions when he came in place of injured starter Matt Schaub and Schaub threw the other. The Jags put the game away in the second quarter when they scored 17 points against a sluggish Texans defense. They too came into the season with the coach’s job on the line and hopes of a playoff appearance. After this win they are still in the hunt but have a huge game against Miami. The Fins are one game behind the Jags so Jacksonville now finds itself in must-win mode for the rest of the year. Houston will look to at least win out in hopes of getting to 9-7. A place they have never been before in their first eight years.
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
Indianapolis 27 Tennessee 17
You have to give it to these Titans when it comes to effort. They turned the ball over at critical times and did not score when they needed to but stayed with the Colts nonetheless. First off, the Colts tied the regular season record for consecutive wins, and stayed undefeated in the process. Peyton Manning was not his usual dominating self but was able to move the football like always and give Joseph Addai time to shine. He gave his team a season-high 79 hard fought yards on 21 carries and was able to get into the end zone twice. Pierre Garcon had a good game with six catches for a career-high 136 yards to help his team. The real story was the Titans penchant for mistakes. There was the Nate Washington drop of a Young pass that was a sure touchdown. There was Ahmard Hall’s fumble that killed a promising drive. An interception by Young did not help and then there was the fumble near the goal line that cost the Titans a touchdown. On the next play LenDale White ran it to the one but the play was called back for holding. The drive ended with a failed fourth-down try and the next drive ended the same way. Later others would say that they should have kicked field goals in those situations but it is too easy to look back. They out gained the Colts and held the ball five minutes more than Indy. Chris Johnson was held in relative check but got 113 yards to go over 100 yards rushing for the seventh straight game. He now has 1,509 yards and needs to average 149 yards over the last four games to tie the record with 2,105. So now they go back to the drawing board and that starts with St. Louis next week. It is a game they should win and a game that can pad Johnson’s stats. Most of all, it is the first game of four they must win and help will be needed. The Colts will now look at hosting the Broncos next week with a chance to match their best start ever at 13-0.
Jacksonville 23 Houston 18
A season gone bad just keeps getting worse for the Texans. With the hope of a playoff run gone, Houston was now looking to at least get back in the win column. What they managed to do was seal their postseason fate in a game full of mistakes. They threw three interceptions from three different players. The call on one of them was in question as Houston faced first and goal from the five. For some reason head coach Gary Kubiak gave the okay for a trick play down 23-12. The play called for running back Chris Brown to take the handoff and pass it to TE Joel Dreessen. The problem was Brown took the handoff and was pressured by CB Tyron Brackenridge. He got hit and threw the ball into the hands of Gerald Alexander and the drive was dead. Rex Grossman threw another one of the interceptions when he came in place of injured starter Matt Schaub and Schaub threw the other. The Jags put the game away in the second quarter when they scored 17 points against a sluggish Texans defense. They too came into the season with the coach’s job on the line and hopes of a playoff appearance. After this win they are still in the hunt but have a huge game against Miami. The Fins are one game behind the Jags so Jacksonville now finds itself in must-win mode for the rest of the year. Houston will look to at least win out in hopes of getting to 9-7. A place they have never been before in their first eight years.
NFC South Week 13 Wrap Up
NFC South Week 13 Wrap Up
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
New Orleans 33 Washington 30
See, now this is why they play the game. There are going to be times in a season when you find yourself behind. There will be times when your backs are up against the wall for some reason or another. The Saints faced that problem Sunday against a determined Redskin team that has nothing to play for now but pride. To top that off the Saints gave Washington all they needed and more to win this game. The Saints scored once when Drew Brees was intercepted, then wide receiver Robert Meachem stripped the ball and got it back. If that wasn’t enough Meachem went untouched into the end zone. Oh and then there was 0-4 in the red zone, which is almost unheard of for this team. They had a total of 55 yards rushing to go with seven penalties for 102 yards. Then, when they had come back, Washington set up for the winning field goal to end the Saints perfect season. With 1:52 left Washington kicker Shaun Suisham got set for the go ahead score. Somehow some way the kick went wide right and there was life left for New Orleans. It took all of 33 seconds for them to tie the score and send the game into overtime. So at the 8:31 mark little known Garrett Hartley won it with an 18-yard filed goal. Mind you that he had not kicked for this team until this day and finished with four field goals. So goes this story of destiny where the Saints find themselves almost invincible. Still, they better learn to stop the other team because they are showing that they can be beaten. That they are prone to give up points like the 30 they gave up. They also allowed the Redskins almost 500 yards of offense. So they better tighten up on defense and keep the circus in town with that offense if they hope to win the BIG ONE. Without that a great year will be for naught.
Philadelphia 34 Atlanta 7
It was one of those days where someone was coming back home, so to speak. Michael Vick was back and he had a little fun with his old team. He was able to get into a game that was out of hand and had a rushing and passing touchdown. They were his first since 2006 and they meant more to him than we will ever know. The game was all Philly especially with QB Matt Ryan and RB Michael Turner out for the Falcons. Without them they had only 103 yards as team rushing and Chris Redman could not make a difference. The Falcons are now 6-6 and find themselves in a wild-card hole two games behind these Eagles. It looks more and more like the playoffs are out of their hands now. The story was of course Vick and how he was treated in a town where he was once king. He was booed at first but was cheered by those that remain faithful to him. He was humble about the experience and just wants to get back to where he once was in this league. It may take awhile but so long as he does his part someone will give him a chance. The game was not too exciting but the Eagles know they have a lot to play for. The Falcons will now look to next year because without Ryan and Turner that is all they have. They have too many teams to catch up to now so it’s back to the drawing board.
Carolina 16 Tampa Bay 6
These two teams have lived and died by their quarterback play this year. For the Panthers it has been the saga of Jake Delhomme and his troubles. For the Bucs it has been a sneak peak at what the future may hold in Josh Freeman. With Delhomme out it was up to Matt Moore to pick up the slack but with his inexperience it would not be. He was 14-20 for 161 yards with a pick and 66 of those yards came on one play. So lack of offense would be a nice term for the Panthers except for the running of Jonathan Stewart. H had a career-high 26 carries to go with 120 yards and a touchdown. The only thing missing was the interception show we usually get from Delhomme. Enter Freeman to the rescue. It was amazing to see the Bucs get inside the Panthers 30 over and over only to come up with six points. The main reason was the generosity of Freeman who threw five picks as Delhomme watched from the sidelines. I am guessing he was really relieved it was not him throwing all those picks. Freeman finished with good stats if you take away the picks. He was 23-44 for a career-high 326 yards but could not avoid the big mistakes. At 1-11 the only question left in Tampa is will head coach Raheem Morris be one and done. The scene in Carolina remains the same, as they appear to have the talent and lay egg after egg year after year. It would appear that this is the end of the line for coach John Fox and his staff as well. It also looks like they may have had their last win of the year as the schedule ends rough. They have to go to New England next and then host the Vikings. After, it’s a trip to the New York Giants and they close at home against the mighty Saints who may be looking at 16-0 at that point. So as they say in sports when your season is shot…………. Wait till next year.
By Rafael Garcia
Sr. Contributing Writer Football Reporters Online
Southeast Region
New Orleans 33 Washington 30
See, now this is why they play the game. There are going to be times in a season when you find yourself behind. There will be times when your backs are up against the wall for some reason or another. The Saints faced that problem Sunday against a determined Redskin team that has nothing to play for now but pride. To top that off the Saints gave Washington all they needed and more to win this game. The Saints scored once when Drew Brees was intercepted, then wide receiver Robert Meachem stripped the ball and got it back. If that wasn’t enough Meachem went untouched into the end zone. Oh and then there was 0-4 in the red zone, which is almost unheard of for this team. They had a total of 55 yards rushing to go with seven penalties for 102 yards. Then, when they had come back, Washington set up for the winning field goal to end the Saints perfect season. With 1:52 left Washington kicker Shaun Suisham got set for the go ahead score. Somehow some way the kick went wide right and there was life left for New Orleans. It took all of 33 seconds for them to tie the score and send the game into overtime. So at the 8:31 mark little known Garrett Hartley won it with an 18-yard filed goal. Mind you that he had not kicked for this team until this day and finished with four field goals. So goes this story of destiny where the Saints find themselves almost invincible. Still, they better learn to stop the other team because they are showing that they can be beaten. That they are prone to give up points like the 30 they gave up. They also allowed the Redskins almost 500 yards of offense. So they better tighten up on defense and keep the circus in town with that offense if they hope to win the BIG ONE. Without that a great year will be for naught.
Philadelphia 34 Atlanta 7
It was one of those days where someone was coming back home, so to speak. Michael Vick was back and he had a little fun with his old team. He was able to get into a game that was out of hand and had a rushing and passing touchdown. They were his first since 2006 and they meant more to him than we will ever know. The game was all Philly especially with QB Matt Ryan and RB Michael Turner out for the Falcons. Without them they had only 103 yards as team rushing and Chris Redman could not make a difference. The Falcons are now 6-6 and find themselves in a wild-card hole two games behind these Eagles. It looks more and more like the playoffs are out of their hands now. The story was of course Vick and how he was treated in a town where he was once king. He was booed at first but was cheered by those that remain faithful to him. He was humble about the experience and just wants to get back to where he once was in this league. It may take awhile but so long as he does his part someone will give him a chance. The game was not too exciting but the Eagles know they have a lot to play for. The Falcons will now look to next year because without Ryan and Turner that is all they have. They have too many teams to catch up to now so it’s back to the drawing board.
Carolina 16 Tampa Bay 6
These two teams have lived and died by their quarterback play this year. For the Panthers it has been the saga of Jake Delhomme and his troubles. For the Bucs it has been a sneak peak at what the future may hold in Josh Freeman. With Delhomme out it was up to Matt Moore to pick up the slack but with his inexperience it would not be. He was 14-20 for 161 yards with a pick and 66 of those yards came on one play. So lack of offense would be a nice term for the Panthers except for the running of Jonathan Stewart. H had a career-high 26 carries to go with 120 yards and a touchdown. The only thing missing was the interception show we usually get from Delhomme. Enter Freeman to the rescue. It was amazing to see the Bucs get inside the Panthers 30 over and over only to come up with six points. The main reason was the generosity of Freeman who threw five picks as Delhomme watched from the sidelines. I am guessing he was really relieved it was not him throwing all those picks. Freeman finished with good stats if you take away the picks. He was 23-44 for a career-high 326 yards but could not avoid the big mistakes. At 1-11 the only question left in Tampa is will head coach Raheem Morris be one and done. The scene in Carolina remains the same, as they appear to have the talent and lay egg after egg year after year. It would appear that this is the end of the line for coach John Fox and his staff as well. It also looks like they may have had their last win of the year as the schedule ends rough. They have to go to New England next and then host the Vikings. After, it’s a trip to the New York Giants and they close at home against the mighty Saints who may be looking at 16-0 at that point. So as they say in sports when your season is shot…………. Wait till next year.
FOOTBALL TALK-What to make of Week 13
FOOTBALL TALK-By David Ortega for Football Reporters Online
Looking under the hood of Week 13
Saints, Colts looking more one dimensional....
Even though both teams remain undefeated, one can not help but notice over the past couple of week how both teams have come dangerously close to seeing their perfect seasons end. One notable factor that might be of concern has been the teams lack of committment to the run. In the Saints last two games they are only averaging 84 yards on the ground compared to their season average of 142 yards. In those two games the Saints have passed for 775 net yards. The Colts are also not setting any ground game records averaging 92 yards on the ground over their last four, just a tick better than their 32nd ranked season average of 88 yards. In the same span the Colts are averaging 278 yards passing per game. One thing fantasy owners will note, these teams know where their strengths lie and figure to lean heavy as the post season approaches.
Chargers set to ride the rolling Rivers....
The Chargers have quietly crept up on the competition in the AFC and sitting at 9-3 in first place of the West, they have a great oppportunity to grab the number two seed in the post season. One of the major reasons for the Chargers surge and great success has been the play of quarterback Philip Rivers. Not only has Rivers led the Chargers to seven straight wins, but he's been passing among the elite as of late. In his last two starts he's passed for nearly 700 yards and thrown four touchdowns while completing over 73 percent of his passes. Just as impressive are his 14 touchdown passes and just three interceptions during the seven game win streak. With the number two seed in their grasp, expect the Chargers to ride Rivers hot hand right into the playoffs.
More fantasy Notes
When the Bills face the Chiefs on Sunday, one thing fantasy owners can expect to be missing is any kind of defense. For the Bills this could be a great opportunity for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to continue to earn the trust of his coaches by utilizing his playmaking receiver Terrell Owens. Over the past three games that Fitzpatrick has been the starter Owens has seen 28 targets and caught 17 passes. With the Chiefs 28th ranked pass defense next on the dockett, expect these two to improve those numbers.
A big key for the Chiefs in their matchup with the Bills will be to stay with the run. The Bills are ranked dead last against the run, so expect the Chiefs to feature a lot of running back Jamaal Charles. The Chiefs 2nd year back has one 100-yard rushing game this season, but he is averaging over 90 yards from scrimmage in his last three games. Even though he has yet to break out this season Charles is averaging nearly five yards a carry. The Bills defense allows nearly five yards a tote, so this could be a big week for Charles if the defense can keep things close.
Looking under the hood of Week 13
Saints, Colts looking more one dimensional....
Even though both teams remain undefeated, one can not help but notice over the past couple of week how both teams have come dangerously close to seeing their perfect seasons end. One notable factor that might be of concern has been the teams lack of committment to the run. In the Saints last two games they are only averaging 84 yards on the ground compared to their season average of 142 yards. In those two games the Saints have passed for 775 net yards. The Colts are also not setting any ground game records averaging 92 yards on the ground over their last four, just a tick better than their 32nd ranked season average of 88 yards. In the same span the Colts are averaging 278 yards passing per game. One thing fantasy owners will note, these teams know where their strengths lie and figure to lean heavy as the post season approaches.
Chargers set to ride the rolling Rivers....
The Chargers have quietly crept up on the competition in the AFC and sitting at 9-3 in first place of the West, they have a great oppportunity to grab the number two seed in the post season. One of the major reasons for the Chargers surge and great success has been the play of quarterback Philip Rivers. Not only has Rivers led the Chargers to seven straight wins, but he's been passing among the elite as of late. In his last two starts he's passed for nearly 700 yards and thrown four touchdowns while completing over 73 percent of his passes. Just as impressive are his 14 touchdown passes and just three interceptions during the seven game win streak. With the number two seed in their grasp, expect the Chargers to ride Rivers hot hand right into the playoffs.
More fantasy Notes
When the Bills face the Chiefs on Sunday, one thing fantasy owners can expect to be missing is any kind of defense. For the Bills this could be a great opportunity for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to continue to earn the trust of his coaches by utilizing his playmaking receiver Terrell Owens. Over the past three games that Fitzpatrick has been the starter Owens has seen 28 targets and caught 17 passes. With the Chiefs 28th ranked pass defense next on the dockett, expect these two to improve those numbers.
A big key for the Chiefs in their matchup with the Bills will be to stay with the run. The Bills are ranked dead last against the run, so expect the Chiefs to feature a lot of running back Jamaal Charles. The Chiefs 2nd year back has one 100-yard rushing game this season, but he is averaging over 90 yards from scrimmage in his last three games. Even though he has yet to break out this season Charles is averaging nearly five yards a carry. The Bills defense allows nearly five yards a tote, so this could be a big week for Charles if the defense can keep things close.
