Grown Folks Advice: Know Who's in the Room

Lately we have a few people, Dwight Howard and Gregg Williams, who are in need of some Grown Folks Advice.  Each of their situations is a little different, Williams made a career ending move and Howard just made a career limiting (very limited) move.  I do happen to feel that if they had taken this Grown Folks Advice, neither would have been in trouble.  This piece is dedicated to the following advice:  Know Who's in the Room.

Supposedly Dwight Howard had a conversation with someone in upper management and either asked that his head coach Stan Van Gundy be fired or he intimated that his head coach be fired.  In either situation, I imagine that Dwight was in a room with a person or some people and the discussion about his future with the organization came up.  I'm more inclined to believe that he was asked 'what would it take to keep you here long term?'.  Now for those of us with 'good non-gubment jobs', we know this is a setup.  This kind of question gives the person answering the question enough rope to hang one's self without even trying.  Did Dwight ask for his coach's head, who really knows, but if he did he had to know who was in that room or who that person that he was speaking with is connected to.

To break it down, if you ask me a question about someone in our organization and I don't know that the two of you are friends/acquaintances/golfing buddies I should be very wary of how I answer your question because I know that you are going back to that person as soon as we finish speaking.  It's expected, and you can pretty much guarantee that it's going to happen.  So, I imagine that Dwight gave the inclination that he and Van Gundy weren't BFF's and the person repeated this information.  Which in turn caused the most awkward moment in Orlando Magic history.

If Dwight would have taken a moment to understand who was in the room with him, crisis averted.  Or when in doubt just give them the honest truth, ' I don't want to be like LeBron, so I will just say that I have no idea what I'm going to do, but I'd like to think about what I'm going to do and then I'll say something that may sound silly, but you know I joke around, but you also know I don't want to be like Shaq and leave Orlando, but I want to stay, but I also want a chance to win a championship, but I also want to have fun,.......' - guaranteed that they walk out of the room and never ask you another question.

For Gregg Williams, let's forget that the NFL has already told your team that they need to watch what they say to their players, let's forget that the NFL is presently investigating your team for possible violations as they relate to a bounty program, let's forget that Roger Goodell has already made examples out of those that have crossed his lines since becoming the commish, and let's forget the fact that you are openly asking players to intentionally injure players on the opposing team, you have a guy sitting in the corner of your locker room RECORDING THE ENTIRE THING.  Williams can't be this dumb, so I attribute this to arrogance.  But back to the purpose of this musing, if you know who's in the room you can 1) request that the guy be removed from the locker room for a period of time prior to the start of the game 2) confiscate (in a nice way) his recording devices or 3) be careful what you say.

Again, if you know who's in the room, maybe your speech goes from what it was to 'guys go out there and give 'em hell!!!!'.  Sometimes you gotta be politically correct so that you don't mess up that 'good non-gubment job'.

Heed my advice and feel free to pass on to people who may need it.  Remember, we all gotta eat and we can't let our mouths get in the way of that. 
  

NFL Update

New Orleans Saints - WOW!!!  Sean Payton is suspended an entire year by the NFL for his leading Bounty Gate and the Saints are docked two 2nd Round picks (1 each year in 2012 and 2013).  This is a heavy fine, but I think expected in light to the shenanigans that have been going on.  A few questions:

1) Who else is going down with the ship, Greg Williams? (Question answered in update)

2) Will this change the culture in the NFL?

3) Was this really necessary?

4) Why aren't the refs who sat and watched Brett Favre get hit after the whistle in the bounty game not disciplined?

UPDATE: Micky Loomis (GM) is suspended 8 games. Joe Vitt (Assistant Head Coach) is suspended 6 games and fined $100K.  Gregg Williams has been suspended indefinitely.  Saints were fined $500K.

New York Jets - The Jets have acquired Tebow Mania for a 4th round pick.  I'm not sure that this is a good move because if they can't mold Sanchez, how do they expect to make Tebow better?  Maybe it'll be easier next time they get away from running the ball, they just sub Tebow in to show Sanchez this is what we need to be doing.


What's your take on all of this?

2011-12 NFL Week 1 - Thursday Night Recap

What a game!!!!  The Packers and the Saints both played great, with some surprises and this was a great game to start the season off.  The Packers were able to get out of the gates early and take a 14 point lead on the arm of Aaron Rodgers (27 of 35 for 312 yards, 3 TDs) and the hands of Jordy Nelson and Greg Jennings.  Rodgers threw for 188 yards and 3 TDs in the 1st quarter. That ended up waking up the Saints and you could see that Drew Brees (32 of 49 for 419 yards, 3 TDs) was slowly getting into a rhythm. 

In the second half Brees seemed to have figured out the Packers defense and it looked like 7 on 7 drills there for a minute.  He marched them up and down the field, but their Achilles heel in this game (and anytime they lose this year) was their defense (and their running game).  The Saints couldn't stop the Packers and the Packers went deep into their playbook, several different formations, packages, and personnel.  The Packers pretty much did everything they wanted (outside of that 3rd and 4 towards the end of the game).  The Saints gained 81 yards rushing as a team last night and that just won't get it, they have to have more balance.  Fantasy owners will love having Brees throw that much, but they aren't going to win the important games if they can't run the ball.

In the end, the Packers defense stop Mark Ingram on a 4th and 1 to end the game.  The 'Game Ball' goes to Randall Cobb and the Packers offensive line.  Cobb returned a NFL record-tying 108 kickoff for a TD and scored another TD on a pass from Rodgers.  The 2nd round pick out of Kentucky looked like he belonged.  Meanwhile the Packers offensive line dominated the Saints.  The line allowed Starks and Grant to both average above 4 yards a carry and they combined for 97 yards and 1 TD.  They also kept Rodgers' jersey clean for the majority of the night.  Great game, but the best part is,......Inquisitive Mind 1 - 0 for the week. 


P.S. - @ Darryl, I'm not saying I told you so, but you were slightly wrong last night.  Since the start of the season has been moved to Thursday nights the previous years Super Bowl winner has won the majority of the games.  Be glad that you didn't bet any real money on the game and giving me 10 points. 

2011-12 NFL Week 1 Picks - Thursday Night

Yes!!!!!!!  we are officially starting the season and we got the Packers and the Saints kicking it off.  Both of these teams are expected to fight each other to represent the NFC in this years Super Bowl.  Let's get down to the picks.

New Orleans @ Green Bay - The Packers are at home and weather shouldn't be an issue (the tundra isn't cold yet).  The Saints spread it out as good as any other team and Brees can get the ball anywhere on the field when he needs to.  With the Saints it's always on the defensive side of the ball as to whether they will be good.  The Packers return almost everyone (especially the starters they lost to injury last season) and Aaron Rodgers is arguably the best QB in the game (yes, I'll argue with you that he is the best right now*).  The Packers just seem to have gotten better and they were pretty good (or lucky, depending on how you see it) last year.  I'm looking for the Packers to start the season off the way they ended it last year.  Winner - Packers.  

*For those that know me and have read here previously, I have not been an Aaron Rodgers fan.  I thought that the Packers were going to rue the day they handed the reins over to him.  I am man enough to say that I was wrong on this and that Rodgers has now put himself in the discussion of being an elite QB in the NFL. 

NFL 2010 Week 14 Wrap Up

Indianapolis @ Tennessee - Peyton Manning (25 of 35 for 319 yards, 2 TDs) looked like he got back on track against the Titans this week.  He had some semblance of a running game, but it was really Manning looking good that got the Colts this win.  Kerry Collins (28 of 39 for 244 yards, 3 TDs) and Chris Johnson (22 carries for 111 yards, 1 TD, 8 rec for 68 yards) did what they could to keep the Titans in the game, but their defense was terrible.  This was definitely a good game, but better for the Colts as they look to put some pressure on division leading Jacksonville.  Inquisitive Mind 1 - 0 for the week.  

Cleveland @ Buffalo - I guess this is the end of the Mangini era in Cleveland.  They had been playing well but then they lose to this terrible Bills team.  For some reason the Browns couldn't hold onto the ball (5 fumbles, 2 lost) and in a tight game, you can't turn the ball over.  Inquisitive Mind 1 - 1 for the week.  

Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh - This game started well for the Bengals with a TD pass from Palmer to Andrew Whitworth, but from there it was all downhill.  The Steelers went on a 23-0 run and that was it.  Palmer (20 of 32 for 178 yards, 1 TD, 3 INTs) was doing his best to find Steelers defensive players when they were open, and Big Ben (21 of 33 for 258 yards) provided the catalyst for the Steelers on offense to get this one done.  As always, another good game from the Steelers and another bad game from the Bengals.  Inquisitive Mind 2 - 1 for the week.

Green Bay @ Detroit - The Lions finally won a big one.  It only took them knocking Aaron Rodgers out of the game.  After that, this looked like a bad pickup football game with no one really knowing the other people on their team.  My biggest question is why don't they teach QBs in Green Bay how to slide?  There's gotta be an out of work baseball player in Minnesota that can teach these guys how to slide and not take hits.  I'm just sayin'.  Inquisitive Mind 2 - 2 for the week. 

Tampa Bay @ Washington - WOW!!!!  This was a back and forth game that the Redskins should have won.  It had to be heartbreaking, especially after fighting all the way back and scoring a TD with nothing left on the clock.  An extra point ties the game and we go into overtime, and then,........ missed extra point and it's all over including the crying.  Josh Freeman (15 of 25 for 266 yards, 1 TD) looked good again and shows that the Bucs got it right with their selection for their franchise QB.  Inquisitive Mind 3 - 2 for the week. 

Atlanta @ Carolina - Wasn't really a contest.  Michael Turner (28 carries for 112 yards, 3 TDs) had a wonderful game and the Falcons are 11-2 and they are the best team that is flying under the radar right now.  They are truly a complete team with Ryan at QB, Turner at RB, White at WR, and a ball hawking defense.  If you haven't figured it out, the Falcons are real.  Inquisitive Mind 4 - 2 for the week. 

Oakland @ Jacksonville - Good old fashioned shootout and the Raiders just ran out of bullets.  Jason Campbell 21 of 30 for 324 yards, 2 TDs), how can you look this good and then look so bad on certain days?  I can't put my finger on what makes him inconsistent.  I don't know what the Jaguars have done or whose soul they have sold, but they are a game away from winning their division and I doubt many outside of that locker room had even a remote idea that it was possible.  David Garrard (11 of 22 for 159 yards, 3 TDs, 1 INT) had a nice game along with MJD (23 carries for 101 yards, 1 TD).  Inquisitive Mind 5 - 2 for the week. 

Seattle @ San Francisco - My very bad pick made Alex Smith (17 of 27 for 255 yards, 3 TDs) look like he is actually a viable option for a team at the QB spot.  The sad part is that the 49ers have a chance to win their division.  There is something wrong with that, very wrong.  Inquisitive Mind 5 - 3 for the week. 

St. Louis @ New Orleans - This was a team win for the Saints as they got ok play from Brees, but add in Michael Jenkins 2 INTs (one returned for a TD) and the Saints had a cakewalk.  I did think that the Rams could have pulled this one off, but alas, I was wrong.  Inquisitive Mind 6 - 3 for the week. 

Miami @ New York Jets - What do you do after an a$$ whuppin?  Well, I guess you go back and get another.  The Jets looked terrible as they not only had a coach cheat, had several dropped balls, lost a lineman, and put themselves in a position to miss the playoffs.  Chad Henne threw for a total of 55 yards (1 TD), the Dolphins ran (as a team) for a total of 101 yards, and they also turned the ball over 3 times (lost fumbles) and they won the game.  Explain that to me.  I'm waiting.  Inquisitive Mind 6 - 4 for the week.  


Denver @ Arizona - They scored how many points?  43?  Did Kurt Warner sneak into the game for the Cardinals?  Jay Feely (5 field goals, 1 TD run, 4 XPs for a total of 25 points) was responsible for how many points?  And he's the kicker?  This should have gotten the new Denver coach fired.  I'm sorry, this was a terrible outing.  Inquisitive Mind 6 - 5 for the week. 

Kansas City @ San Diego - Hi Brodie Croyle, welcome to the pressure cooker.  And the pressure made Croyle (7 of 17 for 40 yards) pop or at least perform like a beaten up can.  Jamaal Charles (10 carries for 40 yards), fresh off of signing a new $32+M deal had a total of 40 yards.  Please get Matt Cassel healthy and back on the field.  I can't even believe I said that.  Inquisitive Mind 6 - 6 for the week. 

New England @ Chicago - Are there awards for running the score up on opponents, because if there is, the Patriots get that award two weeks in a row.  The Patriots dominated the Bears at Soldier Field, in the snow.  This was a TKO at halftime when Brady (27 of 40 for 369 yards, 2 TDs) dropped that sweat pass into Branch's (8 recs for 151 yards, 1 TD) arms as he waltzed into the end zone with no time on the clock.  Note to Brian Urlacher, let your play do the talking.  Inquisitive Mind 7 - 6 for the week. 

Philadelphia @ Dallas - This Eagles team is explosive on the offensive side of the ball, but they are truly a sieve on the defensive side of the ball.  Samuel didn't play for the Eagles and they NEED him back healthy if they want a punchers chance to get to the Superbowl.  Vick (16 of 26 for 270 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs) and McCoy (16 carries for 149 yards) showed up big time, but I was impressed with this Cowboys team too.  Kitna (24 of 35 for 242 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs) found Witten (7 recs for 69 yards, 2 TDs) on a few occasions and if the Dallas defense could have had a little more time, maybe, just maybe, they would have won this game.  Inquisitive Mind 8 - 6 for the week. 

New York Giants @ Minnesota - Well the dome fell and so did the Brett Favre streak.  Maybe he should have played if this is the type of game Tavaris is going to give the Vikings.  I can't even blame it all on him because this one vaunted defense of the Vikings gave up 213 yards (Bradshaw 103 yards, Jacobs 116 yards) on the ground.  It's over this year for the Vikings and the long term plan just doesn't seem to be there.  Maybe they'll go after another old QB next year.  McNabb are you listening?  Inquisitive Mind 9 - 6 for the week. 

Baltimore @ Houston - My main man Ray Lewis almost let the Texans come back and win that game.  The Ravens defense isn't as good as it once was and they will need to find some corners if they are going to do anything in the playoffs.  Flacco (22 of 33 for 235 yards, 2 TDs) and Mason (6 recs for 78 yards, 2 TDs) must have made up because they connected a lot last night.  I'm still worried about this team and their inability to make that offense work on a consistent basis.  It's another win though.  Inquisitive Mind 10 - 6 for the week. 

Not a bad week and that brings the season total to 124 - 83.  Not too bad for an amateur.  But still in the chase.   

NFL 2010 Week 12 Wrap Up

New England @ Detroit - Suh had his big game but the Lions weren't able to hold on for this win.  For a second there I was like, this might have been the upset special for Turkey Day, but in the end the old reliable Patriots won the game.  Finally Tom Brady put up a monster performance (21 of 27 for 341 yards, 4 TDs) and the Patriots defense finished this blowout.  The Lions played pretty well though, can't knock them for trying.  Inquisitive Mind 1 - 0 for the week. 


New Orleans @ Dallas - Arrrggghhhh.  The Cowboys had this game and lost it late.  I just knew that they were going to win.  The fact that they were thatclose and Dez Bryant didn't record a catch has to say something about this team.  Yes, the Saints played well and Brees was able to lead his team down for a late win.  For some reason the Cowboys still can't run the ball, why?  Inquisitive Mind 1 - 1 for the week. 


Cincinnati @ New York Jets - The Bengals should just call it quits because they suck.  From their head coach on down to the players, this team needs to be blown up.  Carson Palmer should just sit down so that his brother can play and find me some guys off the street that want to play wide receiver.  The Jets looked bad in this game and still won by 16.  I think that's the most telling stat.  I didn't even wait for TO's press conference, this was snooze city all the way.  Inquisitive Mind 2 - 1 for the week. 



Green Bay @ Atlanta - This was a close one.  The Falcons looked like they were going into another overtime game when Rodgers found Nelson for a 10 yard touchdown, but they found a way.  They drove down and Matt Bryant hit a 47 yard field goal to win this game.  Rodgers had another great game (26 of 35 for 344 yards, 1 TD) but it was the combo of Ryan (24 of 28 for 197 yards, 1 TD) and Turner (23 carries for 110 yards, 1 TD) that turned the tide for the Falcons.  The Falcons haven't lost a game at home and are 9-2.  Someone better recognize.  Inquisitive Mind 3 - 1 for the week. 


Pittsburgh @ Buffalo - You're kidding me right?  I just knew that someone had gotten hurt in this game since it took the Steelers well in to overtime to handle the Bills.  (GJ, I was right, Big Ben sprained his foot).  The Steelers defense has been abused as of late as the Bill did pretty much what they wanted to do in the 2nd half.  IF Steve Johnson makes that catch in the end zone (all by himself) this is a loss for the Steelers.  Thank God for small miracles.  Note to Steve Johnson, great for manning up and admitting fault on that drop, but don't take it too hard.  You've had a great season and we expect more from you in the future.  Inquisitive Mind 4 - 1 for the week. 


Carolina @ Cleveland - You're kidding me right?  The Panthers almost stole one here.  The Browns beat the Panthers with Peyton Hillis (26 carries for 131 yards, 3 TDs) and (gulp) former Panther Jake Delhomme (24 of 35 for 245 yards, 2 INTs).  Malik, I know you're somewhere today still crying in your beer from the hyperbole that is the Carolina Panthers.  Inquisitive Mind 5 - 1 for the week. 


Jacksonville @ New York Giants - This just came down to the league righting itself.  This was a game of two average teams playing each other and one of the average teams had to win.  It took a late TD pass from Manning (the not so good one) to Boss for the Giants to go ahead and then a fumble recovery to clinch.  My biggest question is why are the Giants average when they have LOTS of talent on both sides of the ball?  I just don't get it.  Inquisitive Mind 6 - 1 for the week. 


Minnesota @ Washington - No AP (injured in 2nd quarter), an old QB, a defense that isn't playing well, and somehow the Vikings met a team that is worse than they are.  Toby Gerhart played for the injured AP with a 22 carry (for 76 yards, 1 TD) performance that wasn't spectacular but it at least let the Vikings know they have a solid backup that can handle a pounding.  Favre gave (Leslie) Frazier the game ball, how nice.  Inquisitive Mind 7 - 1 for the week. 


Tennessee @ Houston - Chris Johnson, 7 carries for 5 yards.  That's all I have to understand.  Time to blow up the Titans too.  Sorry Fisher, but you'll find greener pastures real soon.  Waiting to see if Andre Johnson gets suspended (I doubt it) for his fight with Courtland Finnegan.  At most I expect his wallet to be about $100K lighter.  Inquisitive Mind 8 - 1 for the week. 


Kansas City @ Seattle - Cassel didn't have to throw for a lot of yards (233), but his 4 TDs led the way to a dismantling of the Seahawks.  Charles (22 carries, 173 yards, 1 TD) and Bowe (13 catches, 170 yards, 3 TDs) had banner days and this is what Scott Pioli was looking for out of this team.  Now if they could only do this against one of the better teams in the league. Inquisitive Mind 9 - 1 for the week. 


Miami @ Oakland - Chad Henne did his best Dan Marino impersonation (17 of 30 for 307 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT) and the Williams/Brown combo combined for 44 carries for 180 yards and 1 TD.  The Gradkowski led Raiders were again terrible and no running game to speak of (16 total rushing yards) means that the Raiders have got to pick a QB and stick with him.  I personally think Campbell is the better of the two, but it's not my pick.  Inquisitive Mind 9 - 2 for the week. 


St. Louis @ Denver - The Rams are for real.  They are on top of the NFC West at 5 and 6.  They are going to make the playoffs.  Write it down and take a picture of it.  Bradford threw for 308 yards and 3 TDs, on the road.  I am just amazed by this.  Yes, the NFC West is weak, but this team shouldn't be in the hunt and they are.  Inquisitive Mind 9 - 3 for the week. 


Philadelphia @ Chicago - I can honestly say this, the Bears won this game.  They played the BEST game of their season in slowing down Vick.  Their ends didn't get greedy and try to increase their sack totals, they stayed in their lanes and made it a rough night for Vick and company.  Jay Cutler looked about as good as I've EVER seen him.  His 14 of 21, 247 yard, 4 TD performance was almost as amazing as Vicks' play against the Redskins, more so because of who Cutler is.  I've always said that he has interceptions in him and since he didn't throw any in this game,...look out.  The Bears are 8-3 and in position to go back to the playoffs.  I'll lose a bet if they win 3 more games, but they could end up getting Lovie and extension or at least working during the final year of his contract.  Inquisitive Mind 9 - 4 for the week. 


Tampa Bay @ Baltimore - This game was a lost closer than I thought it'd be.  I thought the Ravens offense would top the 30 point plateau but 17 was enough.  The Ravens defense pretty much held suit as they stopped LeGarrette Blount and Josh Freeman.  I am a little concerned with the Ravens with the loss of Le'Ron McClain and the offense not using Boldin.  What's going on here?!?!?  Still a win for the Ravens, which pushes them to 8-3 and 5-0 at home this year.  The AFC is going to be tough this year.  Inquisitive Mind 10 - 4 for the week. 


San Diego @ Indianapolis - That old New Edition song rang in my ears last night 'Is this the End?' while I was watching Peyton Manning get hit.  He's just not the same QB when you're able to hit him and hit him hard like the Chargers did for the majority of the night.  Rivers didn't have a big stat game (185 yards passing) but he showed us how he can pick apart a defense.  The Chargers defense returned two picks (out of the 4 total) for TDs and Tolbert added an additional one.  Both teams are 6-5 now, but unless the Colts get some of their injured players back, I think the Colts are thisclose to being done for the season too.  Inquisitive Mind 11 - 4 for the week. 


San Francisco @ Arizona - Troy Smith had a good game and the 49ers improved to 3-1 with him at the helm which begs to question why he wasn't playing before now?  Yes he was sick and was out of commission for a while, but he is by far the best QB on the roster.  Now with Frank Gore done for the season, we'll see if this 49ers team has any heart and if Smith can lead them to some more wins.  They aren't mathematically out of the NFC West running. Inquisitive Mind 12 - 4 for the week. 


Another great week as we head toward the finish line.  I'm solidly at 100-75 for the year, but still behind the masses at ESPN.  Gotta try and catch them. 

NFL 2010 Week 11 Picks

At least we started out on the good foot with the Bears game this week.  I was surprised that some folks actually picked the Dolphins, even I couldn't do that in good faith.  Let's finish up the week strong.     


Buffalo @ Cincinnati - I almost think that the Bills should win this game.  The Bengals have sucked this year and there's really nothing that is redeeming about this team.  They lost their kicker for the year, they have a QB who is struggling to get back to being the QB that many thought he would be, they can't seem to run the ball, and the TO/Ocho combination is terrible.  BUT, they are playing the Bills and they are playing this game in Ohio.  Why am I doing this?  I'm going to say this now, if they don't win, I will not pick them the rest of the year, period.  Winner - Bengals. 



Detroit @ Dallas - Jason Garrett is 1-0 for the year and he's done a great job of motivating this team to actually showing up for a game.  The Lions are a dangerous team as long as Megatron is on the field and they have proven that I could start at QB and he'll still get the ball.  The Cowboys' corners have been terrible for most of the year and this will definitely be a test for them.  Both defensive lines are good and should provide each offense with their own issues.  I expect that Suh will help the Cowboys continue the string of not being able to run the ball effectively.  This is at Jerry's World, so gotta go with the home team.  Winner - Cowboys.  


Washington @ Tennessee - You have a Redskins defense that is still giving up points to the Eagles and Mike Vick, and a Titans squad that really underachieved last week by losing to the Dolphins (even though the Dolphins almost ran out of players).  Which team has the gumption to step up and make it two bad weeks in a row.  Randy Moss had 1 catch last week in his debut and we know he's better than that.  They have had some time and I expect Moss to show out this weekend against this weak Redskins secondary.  For the Redskins, I'm just waiting for Shanahan to pull McNabb again.  Does it happen this week?  Winner - Titans.


Arizona @ Kansas City - The Cardinals are terrible and it's time for this Chiefs team to show me something or I will revert back to calling them the Chefs.  Dwayne Bowe seems to be able to catch balls as of late and the defense has got to make a run back to the first four games of the season.  They were pretty much in a groove up until the loss against Indy, but they played well even then.  If they can turn the clock back, just a little, and play some defense, this should be an easy game for the Chiefs.  Winner - Chiefs. 



Green Bay @ Minnesota - Another 'job' game for Childress and a must win for the Vikings if they have ANY hope of making it to the playoffs.  If the Vikings lose this game, I'm pretty sure Childress is done, but so is the team for this year.  The Packers are coming off a bye week and hopefully they were able to find the fountain of recovery because they needed it badly.  The sad thing is that I think Favre will see a younger version of someone resembling him, behind a decent offensive line, throwing the ball all over the field, and he may come to tears.  Maybe the Vikings drop Rodgers and start a blowout and we see a little of Tavaris Jackson in this game?  I doubt it.  Winner - Vikings. 


Houston @ New York Jets - The Jets come off of a close win against the Browns and now they get a Texans team that is looking for some respect.  The Texans are coming off of a lost game to the Jaguars on a hell mary and they needed a win last week, so the urgency is there.  All of the luster has worn off of this team since their great start, including a win over the Colts.  The Jets have been quiet, which is something I never thought I'd say.  The bravado that the Ryan led Jets were talking has toned down a lot.  Can they get it all back together and start the talking again?  Winner - Jets.   


Oakland @ Pittsburgh - How do you make up for losing a close game against the Patriots?  You get a chance to prove to the world that you can beat the Oakland Raiders.  The Raiders aren't the sacrificial cow that they have been over the last few years and they come to Pittsburgh with a good running game (Bush and DMC) and Jason Campbell peaking.  This will be a closer game than most think if Campbell doesn't regress.  Again, it's hard to beat Pittsburgh at home (although the Patriots did).  Winner - Steelers. 


Baltimore @ Carolina - Baltimore, easy.  Winner - Ravens. 


Cleveland @ Jacksonville - The Jaguars aren't that good, but sometimes it's better to be lucky than good, ask the Bears about that.  The Jaguars snuck a win last week and they have been playing pretty well as of late following the lead of David Garrard.  The Browns have also shown a pulse these past few weeks and they seem to be coming together on the defensive side of the ball at the very least.  This is a coin toss.  Winner - Jaguars.   



Tampa Bay @ San Francisco - I would normally say that this is a win for the 49ers and easy, but the Bucs are not laying down for anyone.  With a youth enthused team led by Josh Freeman and LeGarrette Blount, this Bucs team is dangerous.  The 49ers have been given a shot in the arm by searching and finding a QB on their roster in Troy Smith.  Smith has been able to lead this 49ers squad to some wins and he may get another this weekend.  This ought to be a hard fought game and a good one to watch.  Winner - 49ers.


Seattle @ New Orleans - The return of Reggie Bush?  Bush is trying to make his return from breaking a leg earlier in the season and going against his old coach my be the best opportunity for success.  The Seahawks have been up and down all year and I think (let me count here,.......) it's time for them to be up this game.  They should be able to play with the Saints for at least a quarter or two but in the end, the better team should win.  Winner - Saints. 


Atlanta @ St. Louis - I know which team better win.  The Falcons, as I repeat here often, are one of the best teams in the NFC.  They can run with Turner, throw with Ryan, and they have Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez to catch the ball.  The defense is one of the better ones in the league and they are playing a Rams team that is struggling just to keep players on the field.  Even with that said, the Rams have been a team that will take a win from you if you let them stay in the game.  Atlanta will have to jump out early and try to put any fire that this Rams team has out.  Winner - Falcons.   



Indianapolis @ New England - Two of the games best QBs face off against each other:  Brady vs. Manning.  Manning is dealing with not having his usual targets on the field, but he's made it work with the fill ins that the Colts have.  The Patriots are riding high after beating the Steelers at home and they get to stay at home and welcome the Colts.  The Patriots young defense was able to make some plays in Pittsburgh and the question now is will they be able to do the same thing against a Manning led offense.  My money is on Manning.  Winner - Colts. 


New York Giants @ Philadelphia - Is Mike Vick still on fire?  The Giants defense will find out.  The Giants have the personnel upfront to keep Vick in check, but I'm not sure if their second level (LBs) is good enough.  They also have to worry about McCoy and Jackson who are explosive also.  The Giants can grind the ball with Jacobs and Bradshaw, which could limit Mr. Vick's touches.  The more Vick is on the sidelines, the better chance the Giants have.  Can they pull off the upset?  Winner - Eagles.   


Denver @ San Diego - This has shootout written all over it and that's hard to say when you have Kyle Orton as your starting QB.  Orton has played, by far, his best season as a QB.  The Chargers don't really scare you on defense so I expect that the Orton to Lloyd combo will be ordered up several times this game.  Philip Rivers has shown that he too has an arm and is willing to throw to anyone with a Chargers jersey on since the Chargers have had problems from injuries and holdouts all year long.  Do the Broncos have enough to keep pace?  Winner - Chargers.  


Who you got? 

NFL 2010 Week 8 Wrap Up

How about we just forget this week in its entirety?  I mean, I know it’s going to be bad and there’s no need for me to show you how bad it really is.  But I am really starting to rethink this whole pick making thing.  This is really sad. 


Miami @ Cincinnati – We can already start the ‘Pack Your Bags’ Tour with our first game.  The Bungles (yes, we’re back to calling them this) were horrendous.  Carson Palmer looked like the Joker out there (please tell me you saw Shannon Sharpe pre-game on CBS) and other than the two passes for TDs to TO (one was pure luck), they didn’t do anything.  Palmer (17 of 38 for 156 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT) was outplayed by Chad Henne (24 of 37 for 217 yards, 1 INT).  Let that sit with you for a second.  Marvin Lewis, Pack Your Bags.  Inquisitive Mind 0 -1 for the week. 

Jacksonville @ Dallas – The ‘Pack Your Bags’ Tour now heads to Dallas.  You mean to tell me that you get a Jaguars team that has been bad for the majority of the year, a home game, and you come out and play like this?  Yes, Jon Kitna ended the game with 4 INTs, but I think only 1 can the blame be laid at his feet.  The rest of the Cowboys looked listless and the most telling stat of this game is as follows:  D. Garrard – 17 of 21 for 260 yards, 4 TDs, 0 INTs, and a QB Rating of 157.8.  I don’t even think that you can do that on Madden.  He was 12 for 12 at one point and he looked like Peyton Manning.  I wasn’t sure that he was going to miss.  Again, Dallas can’t run the ball, and they had only 17 carries by RBs yesterday (5 carries by Kitna).  If you didn’t see the post game by Wade Phillips, it just totally underlines the fact that, Wade Phillips should, Pack Your Bags.  Jerry can’t keep taking it on the chin like this, as he actually apologized to the Cowboys fans.  My quote - ‘IF they lose to this Jaguars team, they shouldn’t even show up for the rest of the year’. Inquisitive Mind 0 -2 for the week. 


Washington @ Detroit – Ok, let’s get this out of the way.  Matthew Stafford looked good, going 26 of 45 for 212, with 4 TDs, and 1 INT.  Ndamukong Suh basically sealed up the Rookie Defensive Player of the Year IMHO.  But let’s get to the meat of this game.  You are going to tell me that you pulled Donovan McNabb for Rex Grossman?  Because Rex had a better grasp of the 2-minute offense than Donovan?!?!?  There is nowhere outside of Grossman’s mother’s house that anyone should even THINK that.  I mean this is borderline sacrilegious.  Donovan was, of course, his PC self during the post game press conference, but you have to be wondering what he really wanted to say,….’you pulled me for #*$(ing Rex Grossman?  This ain’t Florida?  This is the NFL.  Are #*$(ing serious?’  I’m with you Donovan, I’m with you.  Next week the ‘Pack Your Bags’ tour might be headed to DC.  Inquisitive Mind 0 -3 for the week. 


Buffalo @ Kansas City – Although it took almost a game and a half, the Chiefs found a way to beat the Bills.  It hurts me to even say that because the Bills suck, but they played with a LOT of heart yesterday.  Jamaal Charles had 177 yards on 22 carries and the chiefs had some luck on a missed field goal by Ryan Lindell.  Finally a win this week for me!!! Inquisitive Mind 1 – 3 for the week. 


Green Bay @ New York Jets – You have a bye week, you’re rested and then you host a beaten up Packers team and you can’t even get a TD?!?!?  I actually almost threw something at the TV because of this game.  4^th and 18 and you go for a fake punt?  And then after the game you say that the punter is able to make that call himself when he wants to.  Are you kidding me??!?!?  Then we wonder why the shelf life of coaches seems to be getting shorter and shorter? Inquisitive Mind 1 – 4 for the week. 


Denver @ San Francisco – This is the first time that I can actually say that I’m proud of the 49ers.  They toughed out a win and Troy Smith looked like he should have been starting all year long.  Maybe it was the trip to London, I’m not sure.  Let’s see if the coaches can get this right and start Smith the rest of the year. Of course, 29 carries by Frank Gore helps any QB.  Interesting fact:  Kyle Orton has thrown for over 300 yards a game 5 out of the 8 he has played this year.  Of those 3 he didn’t, he threw for 295 in one of them.  Inquisitive Mind 2 – 4 for the week. 


Tennessee @ San Diego – Well, Vince played this week and he got hurt again.  Trot out Kerry Collins and that equals a loss to the struggling Chargers. The Chargers usually don’t get going until the second half of games and it almost cost them again.  I can’t root for this Chargers team because of the dysfunction, but they were able to stop the normally unstoppable Chris Johnson (59 yards).  Philip Rivers had a great game with 305 yards, 2 TDS, and 1 INT and with all that’s been said and done, the Chargers are sitting at 3 and 5 midway through the season.  At least they still have a chance to make some noise, but we’ll have to see.  I still say, Norv Turner, Pack Your Bags.  A team with this much talent shouldn’t be barely winning games. Inquisitive Mind 2 – 5 for the week. 


Tampa Bay @ Arizona – LeGarrette Blount showed up and led the Bucs on the ground with a 22 carry, 120 yard, 2 TD performance.  He will definitely be starting for the next few games for the Bucs as they figure out who can consistently run the ball for them.  Add to that Josh Freeman is becoming the QB that some thought he could be.  He looked good yesterday leading that Buc team.  They may have found their QB of the future.  Inquisitive Mind 3 – 5 for the week. 


Minnesota @ New England – Favre got the start, Favre got hit, Favre left the game, Jackson played well.  How about we cut out the beginning of all of that and let Jackson start?  I know that Favre is your guy and I’m a Favre guy, but let Jackson start and play.  He can manage this team for a week or so while you let the old man get healthy because we know IF the Vikings make the playoffs (that’s a big IF right now), you’re going to want a healthy and rested Favre unless Jackson is just playing lights out.  The Patriots lucked out in this one.  If I’m Randy Moss, I would miss being in New England also.  The Vikings have terrible play calling and game management.  Brad Childress, you have been compromised, so please please please Pack Your Bags now.  Inquisitive Mind 3 – 6 for the week. 


Seattle @ Oakland – Michael Bush (9 carries 51 yards, 1 TD) and Darren McFadden (21 carries, 111 yards) proved which team had the better stable of running backs while Jason Campbell (310 yards and 2 TDs) played well two times in a row (gasp).  The Raiders looked like the team that I thought they could be.  The Raiders defense was all over Hasselbeck and I’m surprised that he’s even upright today.  The only bad in this game is that the Raiders lost Nnamdi Asomugha to an ankle injury.  Inquisitive Mind 4 – 6 for the week. 


Pittsburgh @ New Orleans – Timely interceptions from the Saints sealed this game.  The Steelers seemed to be off a little on offense and then their defense had several memory lapses that allowed Drew Brees just a hint of freedom.  Brees ended with 305 yards, 2 TDs, and 1 INT, but he was bottled up the majority of the game as the Steelers held the Saints to 30 yards rushing for the game.  Inquisitive Mind 4 – 7 for the week. 


Houston @ Indianapolis – That’s what I get for going against the grain.  The Colts got out early on the Texans and that was it.  The Texans had problems protecting Matt Schaub last night and the Colts were able to trot out anyone with a pulse to catch a ball.  I guess that’s what differentiates the good teams from the decent teams.  The Colts are in first and that’s all that matters.  I think Dwight Freeney is still finding ways to hit Schaub as I type.  Inquisitive Mind 4 – 8 for the week. 


Well, not only was this a terrible week, but I missed a game.  The Panthers played the Rams and it’s easy to say now that I would have picked the Rams, but either way I missed that game.  (Malik, think of it this way, you didn’t have a chance to be mad at me for picking against your beloved Panthers).  So, with a 4 and 8 week, that brings me to 63 – 53 for the season and I can honestly say that it’s going to be hard to get back into this race.  Wish me luck.

NFL 2010 Week 5 Picks

Bad week last week, but you have to be like a corner, you have to have a bad memory.   Let's get it going this week.  Good games are on tap. 

Jacksonville @ Buffalo – On the surface, this looks like an easy win for the Jaguars.  They are going up against a terrible Bills team that is already in rebuilding mode for the next two years.  After beating the Colts last week, this could be a let down game, but I hope not.  Winner – Jaguars. 

Tampa Bay @ Cincinnati – I don’t know what to say about this game.  The Bengals have to start getting some W’s or they are done for the playoffs (already?).  They have to get back to the ground game with Benson and with the Bucs defense not necessarily a good run stopping D, I expect a big game from Benson.  Although I know he’s all Mr. Reality Show now, Ochocinco has got to do something on the football field.  Tampa Bay could sneak this one if the Bengals come out lackadaisical.  Winner – Bengals.   

Atlanta @ Cleveland – The Browns are coming off of their win in the battle of Ohio last week and I’m not even sure who’s starting at QB.  I said last week it shouldn’t matter (I was wrong because they beat the Bengals) and I’ll say it again this week, it shouldn’t’ matter.  The Falcons are slowly trying to turn the corner and get them in the drivers’ seat in the NFC.  With teams like the Packers (injuries) and the Vikings (injuries) holding out hope of a M.A.S.H. unit this is the time to get ahead in the standings.  Winner – Falcons.

St. Louis @ Detroit – This should actually be a good game.  I don’t think that either team is good, but it seems as though both of them are really competing.  The Rams are looking good with a banged up Stephen Jackson and Calvin Johnson could probably catch passes from me and that makes the Lions dangerous.  The Lions are the home team and that’s where I have to go with my pick.  Winner – Lions. 

Kansas City @ Indianapolis – The only undefeated team left in the league and they get the Colts after the Colts got embarrassed last week by Jacksonville.  The Colts defense is struggling with their injuries, while the Chiefs defense has had two weeks to prepare and play the way that they have been playing.  If the Chiefs win this game, they have to be the feel good team of the year.  I know better than picking the Chiefs, but you know what,…I’m riding.  Winner – Chiefs.

Green Bay @ Washington – Will the Packers be able to dress enough starters?  It seems as though everyone is dinged up on this team and over the past two weeks they have had problems closing people out and finishing games.  This is not the game they want to play against a Redskins team that always seems to be one big play away on offense and they are playing decent ball on defense.  If the Packers can run the ball, they will win.  That’s a big IF.  Winner – Redskins. 

Chicago @ Carolina – Let me get this right, Peppers felt that he was mistreated by the Panthers over his contract requests, the Panthers are starting a rookie QB, the Panthers have no running game, the Bears have no passing game with Todd Collins back there (please get Hanie in the game), the Bears have no running game, and people are expected to watch this?  I could actually see this game ending in a 5-0 score.  An opportunity to get the Bears back winning over that debacle from last week and maybe get Cutler healthy.  Winner – Bears. 

 

Denver @ Baltimore – Well, we know the formula to beat the Ravens, and that’s run the ball against them.  Most of the time it works, even though the Steelers lost to the Ravens by executing that same game plan.  The problem is that Peyton Hillis is hurt and we’re not sure who the Broncos are going to trot out there on Sunday to run the ball.  The game is in B-more and the Ravens offense HAS to get clicking.  That means you TJ.  Winner – Ravens.    

New York Giants @ Houston – If I’m Matt Schaub, I really consider wearing a flack jacket from Friday until Monday.  If last week was any indication, the Giants are hungry and they are all about hitting the QB.  The Texans offensive line is better than the Bears that gave up 10 sacks last week, but the Giants have the pieces to at least put up 4 or 5.  Eli Manning may consider a similar type jacket because half of his offensive line is presently being shifted around to fill in the holes.  That doesn’t bode well for him either.  This may be the time for more Brandon Jacobs for the Giants since Bradshaw is a little beat up.  No Andre Johnson for the Texans, gotta go with the….Winner – Giants. 

New Orleans @ Arizona – Lance Moore has already scored a TD.  It’s time for Brees and company to rebound.  After a good game against the Vikings opening weekend, they have almost played down to their competition.  I feel sorry for Fitzgerald having to play with this crew.  The defense is decent, but the offense is horriawful.  Save Fitz!!!!  Winner – Saints.

San Diego @ Oakland – A good ole AFC West Showdown.  The Chargers go into Oakland with a red hot Antonio Gates and hopefully a two headed monster at RB with Tolbert and Matthews (coming back from a bad ankle sprain).  The Raiders are just the Raiders right now.  They don’t instill any fear and Bruce Gradkowski is starting for the Raiders.  Run DMC (McFadden) is out for this game so happy returns to Michael Bush in the Raiders backfield.  The Raiders just don’t have enough offense for this one.  Winner – Chargers. 

Tennessee @ Dallas – The Titans have not been able to run the ball that well and Chris Johnson is looking more and more like he’s barely going to break 1600 or 1700 yards this year (no where near the 2000+ that many predicted).  Dallas has had a week to breathe and make some minor changes to their offense, but more importantly they should be healthy coming in to this game.  I’m still not sold on Roy Williams, but it’s time for Miles Austin to have a breakout game.  Dez Bryant is probably hurting from the $50K+ dinner bill he paid, but he should be playing.  Winner – Cowboys. 

Philadelphia @ San Francisco – Ok, this is it.  The 49ers first win of the season.  I’m not going to say much more but this is their game.  LeSean McCoy is dinged up and will actually be wearing a flak jacket for his ribs.  Kolb is not that good, and I think that we’ll see that this week.  Can anyone get Andy Reid a cab outta town?  Kolb is his guy, right?  Winner – 49ers. 

Minnesota @ New York Jets – Gotta save the best for last.  The Jets have been talking all year long and now with a trade to the Vikings, Randy Moss gets an opportunity to play against the Jets again this year.  Moss will have an opportunity to go after Revis (maybe) and Cromartie who have both talked trash this week about Moss and their ability to frustrate him into ‘taking his foot off the pedal’.  All I have to say is if Revis plays, I expect him to be going long with Moss because Favre is going to test that hamstring.  This is a big game for the Vikings because they need this win, but I will say this again (take a picture):  If the Vikings can play .500 ball until they get Rice back, Shiancoe healthy, Harvin healthy, and then add Moss and AP they will be my pick for the NFC Champions.  Winner – Vikings. 

Who you got?!?!?

NFL NFC Championship Game

Ok, we have the two best teams from the NFC in the Championship game. The Vikings come in with a little luster taken off their star with some so-so performances as of late and the Saints come in as probably the hottest team in the NFL. The Vikings got here by dismantling the Dallas Cowboys and (maybe) running up the score at the end of the game. The Saints got her by out shooting the Cardinals with one of Reggie Bush's best performances of his career. Let's take a look at how this NFC Championship game will turn out.

Offense:

Saints - They got one, and boy do they have one. In most cases the Saints start the game with a TD already on the board as fast as they seem to score points. Drew Brees is having a marvelous year and he's hooking up with everyone on the team by spreading the ball around. The funny part is that the Saints are also at the top of league when it comes to running the ball. With their balance and unexpected play calling from Sean Payton, you never know what to expect.

Vikings - I have been on record all year about this Vikings team needing to run the ball more. for goodness sakes, they have Adrian Peterson. They also have a pretty old QB in Favre who is having arguably his best year ever. With the addition of Percy Harvin and the emergence of Sidney Rice and Shiancoe, the Vikings also have a very dynamic offense. They can keep pace with the Saints if they run the ball a little more and keep Brees in a baseball cap. My worry is that Harvin is having migraines again and may not be able to play. That's a big part of the Vikings passing game on the sidelines if that happens.

Defense:

Saints - Opportunistic is the word that many use to describe the Saints defense. I will say that they are in that bend but do not break category with the Colts defense. If the Saints can get you in the down and distance that they want (2nd and 3rd and long), they have great safeties (Sharper and Harper) that can read QBs and make plays and decent corners who can run with the Vikings receivers. They have decent run stoppers up front, so they should be able to slow down Peterson, at least a little.

Vikings - They have been the best defense at sacking the QB all year long. They really showed us how formidable they could be against the Cowboys. The issue with that is that the Vikings defense hadn't had a game like the Dallas game since maybe week 14 or 15. You can't just turn it on and off. You gotta have some consistency. Ray Edwards tweaked a knee in that Cowboys game and he was giving the Cowboys as hard of a time as Jared Allen was (some would say Edwards had the better game). The Vikings corners have been beaten up all year long, so it will be of utmost importance for the Vikings to get to Brees.

Coaching:

Saints - Payton is one of the best game callers in the NFL and right now he can't seem to pick a bad play. He's going to have to balance the run with the pass and keep that Vikings defense honest. He can't afford to have his team in 3rd and long or Brees may not make it through the game. I'm assuming that he'll have a lot of delayed runs and screens in place for Bush and Thomas.

Vikings - It's funny that Brad Childress gets no respect. I mean, many of us could coach this Vikings team, right? Childress has got to remember that Adrian Peterson is young, so another 26 carries won't hurt him. Look for Childress to concentrate on the run and then let Favre loose later in the game. Childress also has the pressure on him that it's Super Bowl or bust. Can Leslie Frazier, the defensive coordinator dial up something to stop this Saints offense?

And the winner will be:

My heart says Vikings, my head says Saints. So I gotta go with the Vikings. This is it for them. This validates chasing and bringing back Brett Favre if they win this game and get to the Super Bowl. Yes, they want to win that one too, but this Saints team provides a challenge that the Vikings have to step up and answer. Look for AP to have a monster day (hopefully, finally) and for the Vikings to finally get back to the Super Bowl. Final score, Vikings 34, Saints 28.


I know that there are going to be a lot of people that are siding for the Saints and I won't be surprised, but I gotta go with the old vet on this one. What's your take? Who you got?

Quick Turnaround

The Saints just signed Joey Harrington last week as a backup QB and they release him today. I don't even know if they got the stitching on his jersey real good before they let him go. That's a very quick turn around. Well at least he may get called for another job. Joey, this time, just get a hotel room. Don't rent on a month to month basis.

Shockey Out

Jeremy Shockey will be out of the Saints lineup for 6 weeks for sports hernia surgery. This supposedly has been bothering him for weeks but was aggravated during the game this week with the Broncos. The Saints will be losing there biggest off season acquisition and that will make Drew Brees' life just a little harder.