Fútbol del Americano De 2010

[Taco-Calamitous]

Why isn't there a thread on this yet? Week one has come and gone already. Get on it, guys! What's everyone's perspective on the matter?

Green Bay survived a scare at the end there from a Michael Vick-led Philadelphia Eagles team. I heard that Vick insinuated that they would've won had he started. Maybe... I also hear that RB Grant is out for the year for the Pack, which sucks. Who else do they have at running back? Davenport is long gone... I had high hopes hearing about Green Bay and Aaron Rodgers kicking ass during the preseason, but these recent events have me wondering (although Philadelphia is a good team, even without McNabb leading them anymore.)

About the only game I saw all of was the Seattle/San Fransisco game. And Seattle looked really good. They seem to be really rallying around Pete Carroll and his peppy college football attitude towards the game (although I hear a lot of vets don't take well to that kind of thing.) It is worth taking into consideration the fact that they played the 49ers, however, who haven't really been great for a long time. They were supposed to be good this year, but who knows? Still, the Seahawks look like they have a strong case for winning the division this year.

Speaking of the Western Division, my man Derek Anderson is back at starting QB for the Arizona Cardinals. ...we'll see how well he does. I hear he had a strong showing this week, putting up some numbers and not throwing an interception (though he did fumble the ball once, though one of his teammates knocked it back out of the defender's hands before he reached the endzone and they got it back.) I think DA can be good with good players around him, but I've watched him since he played at Oregon State, and he makes lots of mistakes. I always defended him back then, and I was particularly pissed at Browns fans being dicks about him (no, it wasn't DA's fault you guys suck; you just suck) but even I'm starting to wonder if he will ever improve.

Anybody else have any thoughts on week 1? There was a lot of football. Who's gonna win the Super Bowl this year? In spite of "Batman and Robin," I don't think it's gonna be the Bengals. ...probably still a bit early to tell, though I know a lot of people like the Ravens, eh? Anyhoo...

Wuv, Yer Mom

[Josh_R]

Week 1 terrified the shit out of me. Steelers almost didn't pull away with the W. Thank you Troy Polamalu for that game saver.

I love that the Patriots massacred the Bengals. It took everyone from Ashland Kentucky(where i'm from) down a peg.

[Zargabaath]

Green Bay survived a scare at the end there from a Michael Vick-led Philadelphia Eagles team. I heard that Vick insinuated that they would've won had he started. Maybe... I also hear that RB Grant is out for the year for the Pack, which sucks. Who else do they have at running back? Davenport is long gone... I had high hopes hearing about Green Bay and Aaron Rodgers kicking ass during the preseason, but these recent events have me wondering (although Philadelphia is a good team, even without McNabb leading them anymore.)

Wuv, Yer Mom

Green Bay is going to use Grant's back-up Brandon Jackson. He did alright in the Philly game but it sucks that Grant went down just as he was starting to roll. Green Bay's offensive line looked pretty bad; I thought that issue was resolved in the latter half of last year but some works need to be done there.

I was a bit scared when Kolb got side-lined. I remember the Vick of old - the guy who would run for good yardage if there wasn't a throw. Whom was hard to tackle and chase down. And Vick showed up. He threw some excellent passes and really brought the team back. It's good and bad for him. Good because teams saw he still has his legs and an arm; bad because Reid is going with Kolb. Whom when was in QB, the Philly offense looked dead. Rodgers looked fair; he needs to get his accuracy up, 2 picks (1 was a deflection)!!! Green Bay had the best turn-over ratio in the league; can't be giving up those turn-overs, the defense has to get some. Which they almost had quite a few. Clay Matthews played wonderfully.

The Jets offense looked abysmal; how they are going to win a Super Bowl or be a contender without an adequate offense I know not. They also need to clean up with the penalties. Their run game wasn't that impressive nor did they stick with the run (21 rush attempts and 21 pass attempts I believe). Their defense was really good, though Flacco exposed some weakness - Cromartie and the rookie from Boise. I was glad though that the Ravens D did an even better job than the Jets and that hit Lewis got at the end of the game was straight nasty. I'm also happy that with how the game was played and the result it shut the Jets up, if not quieted them a little; don't talk big with an offense like that and before the season has even started.

Cowboys played sloppy and didn't look like a team. Penalties killed them and their horrible communication hurt them for that DeAngelo Hall TD. They'll need to pick it up if they are to win their division. The Vikings offense looked out of sync, but their defense held really well against the Saints. I was surprised that the Pats defense did so well in the first half against the Bengals. I expect Brady to beat the Jets and Revis - Moss is looking forward to that match-up.

Once again Bob Sanders is on the IR because he is injury prone. They definitely need to work on their rush defense but I'm surprised that Mathis and Freeney didn't hold up. Peyton threw for great yardage but from the clips I saw they may need to work on the offense a bit - timing.

[Polk]

I also hear that RB Grant is out for the year for the Pack, which sucks. Who else do they have at running back? Davenport is long gone... I had high hopes hearing about Green Bay and Aaron Rodgers kicking ass during the preseason, but these recent events have me wondering (although Philadelphia is a good team, even without McNabb leading them anymore.)

It's not like the Packers had much of a running game to begin with. Brandon Jackson looks like he has some good potential, and Korey Hall/John Kuhn seem to be holding up well as a full back, so hopefully they'll salvage a decent enough ground game to support the passing game.

The offensive line, again, looked atrocious. I agree Zargabaath, I thought they had that shit sorted out too. Rodgers seems to be looking good, and if he had a bit more support from the offensive line, he would be great.

Man, how about those Lions getting screwed over? I understand the rule that explains why it was an incomplete catch, but it's still a shitty rule. Maybe it's partially my overwhelming hatred of the Bears, but you can't help but feel bad for the lions.

[Zargabaath]

It's not like the Packers had much of a running game to begin with.

Ryan Grant was 7th in Rushing yards last year (he beat Cedric Benson by 2 yards). He had a 4.4 avg for the year, which Steven Jackson (#2) & Adrian Peterson (#5) had and his average was better than Thomas Jones (#3) & Cedric Benson (#8) [the ranks I'm using are based on total rushing yards]. His avg/g was third lowest but he had Zero fumbles (while rushing, 1 while receiving), the only RB to have that in the top 10. He's nowhere near Chris Johnson but when put next to the other top 10 he's very comparable.

Edit: And that was with their crappy offensive line for around half a year.

[Pete]

I'm a little disappointed in the Jets thus far. We ran out mouths way too much, and lo and behold, it bit us right in the ass. It also didn't help that we got about 140 yards in penalties, and essentially gave the Ravens their touchdown.

I AM however very happy that Revis is back... now we just need to get the offense in gear. Let Marky Mark throw the freakin ball!

Oh, and **** Tom Brady.

[Walter Sobchak]

One of the more bizarre developments of the last month is sports writers proclaiming the Bengals as great because they acquired Terrell Owens. Did no one see the part where he sucked in Buffalo and is 37 years old?

Anyway, you have to assume the Ravens will win the Super Bowl. The Saints look like a likely repeat, but lightning very rarely strikes twice. The Jet beatdown was nice, of course. I don't know why everyone forgot that Mark Sanchez was an awful quarterback. Does doing well against a slumping Bengals team and a Chargers team that shits the bed every January really matter?

The Colts might not make the playoffs this year. I just sort of feel it.

[Zargabaath]

So I'm watching the Bears vs. Cowboys game and I saw the challenge by the Bears when the Cowboys running back, or somebody, appeared to have fumbled the ball. I know that these are two different plays but I still think there is some commonality in them.

I'm referring to the Calvin Johnson play last week. He caught the ball, his two feet touched the ground. He then had the ball in his right hand. Then his knees hit the ground. Then his butt. Then his left hand. Then the hand with the ball touched and the ball popped out from the force. If he didn't have control of the ball then that would have been seen when he first held the ball in one hand. He had a grip on that ball otherwise it would have dropped out.

Now for the play with the Cowboys. The player shoulder touches the ground and then the ball comes out right after.

So for one play we have:

Feet, legs/knees, butt, lower back, left arm and then the hand w/ ball hits ground, ball pops out.

Shoulder hits ground and ball comes out right after.

Yet the second play is called dead right when the shoulder touches but when many body parts touch for Johnson's play it is still active; as if the play would end only when his right hand touched the ground.

What is up with this?

[Taco-Calamitous]

So the Packers had a much stronger showing against a probably much weaker team this week. I didn't see any of it. I did see that Rodgers ran for a TD. Also, Philadelphia barely beat Detroit... and the Bears beat Dallas, and last week, they barely beat Detroit as well. Is Detroit a stronger team than last year? Are all these other teams weaker than last year? (I mean, aside from the Bears and the Lions...) Is it too early to tell? Dallas is probably underperforming... Also, Favre threw 3 ints in the Vikings' loss to Miami. Not much new there, I suppose.

I was pretty surprised at the Jets beating the Patriots and the Bengals beating the Ravens this week. For one, I didn't know Ledainian Tomlinson was with the Jets now. I saw that and was like, "Whaaa?" That's a good weapon to have, I think. Saw some highlights from the game, and saw Mark Sanchez make a pretty impressive TD throw, running backwards, off awkward footing. (Haha, fuck Tom Brady.) In the Cincinnati/Baltimore game, clearly Cincinnati's D turned things up, but their offense needs work still. And poor Flacco...

And Damn it, DA! I didn't see the Arizona/Atlanta game, but I'm guessing what happened, given the score... Maybe I shouldn't jump to conclusions. I don't have much to say about any of the other games, though I am slightly disappointed in Seattle. Even if I kind of suspected they'd do that against a better team (though is Denver a better team this year?) Anyhoo...

Wuv, Yer Mom

[Josh_R]

Steelers beat the Titans in a close game. I am so glad they took Vince Young out, what a dumbass move on their part,, haha.

[Taco-Calamitous]

So I didn't get to see tonight's game because I was working... but it's probably for the best that I didn't. I can only imagine all the cursing I would've been doing. It pisses me off just knowing how that ended. I hear the Pack dominated that game... Oh well. What will it be like on Lambeau Field, I wonder?

So as week 3 comes to a close... I have no idea what to think of the football landscape. Who would've thought the Chiefs would beat the Niners this week? All the radio shows and tv shows I listened to picked the Niners to roll, and then look what happens. Are the Chiefs that good, or does everyone just think the world of the Niners because of the past (and that close game they played against the Saints in week 2)? Then there's the Seattle/San Diego game. That really surprised me. I wonder if the Chargers aren't as good this year. Although it sounds like Phillip Rivers is still awesome. And then there's the Ravens... barely beating the Browns. They're obviously not as good as people thought they were, either. Anyhoo...

Wuv, Yer Mom

[Zargabaath]

So I didn't get to see tonight's game because I was working... but it's probably for the best that I didn't. I can only imagine all the cursing I would've been doing. It pisses me off just knowing how that ended. I hear the Pack dominated that game... Oh well. What will it be like on Lambeau Field, I wonder?

Rodgers for the most part had the Bears with his passing game, though once it got closer and in the Red-Zone the Bears got tougher. What really beat the Packers were the Packers. Sixteen penalties if I'm not mistaken. All those penalties would either crumble their offensive drive or extend the Bears offensive set. There were too many "false-starts", a few holdings, and a few personal fouls. They played sloppy, but with all those short-comings they kept the game close and were in the lead for most of the game. They need to find a RB, though with screens and short passes they could supplement that. Most importantly clean up their play; they had 8 penalties in the first two games and had double that in 1 game. Analysts will say that too many turn-overs will kill a team, well too many penalties will do the same.

[Taco-Calamitous]

So I just saw the end of the San Diego/Oakland game. I doubt anyone else watched this, but right at the end, San Diego was at the Oakland 35 or so, and there was a "fumble" by Phillip Rivers that was returned for a touchdown. Only his arm was moving forward when the ball came out. By my estimation, it was perpendicular with his head when the ball was swatted away from his hand. I believe a week ago at the Oregon State game, a similar play happened, only it was ruled an incomplete pass and not a fumble. In both games, the announcers agreed with the call. I don't know if the rules are different between college and pro, but... that pisses me off.

To be honest, I've been watching more college ball than pro. Mostly Oregon State, who upset #9 in the country yesterday. I promise it isn't because Green Bay has been struggling as of late... Does anyone else care about college ball, though? That's all we have in my area, so... Green Bay fans who are actually from Wisconsin could easily be happy with the Badgers this year, seemingly. Have they lost a game yet? I know they almost lost to Arizona State a few weeks back (who Oregon State barely beat last week, too.) Anyhoo...

Wuv, Yer Mom

[Zardoch]

As a Bears fan, I am both grudgingly happy and terribly pissed off. Yeah, we beat the Panthers today after having our O-line blown last week, but FFS, Captain Colon was not pulled from the game for like 3 freakin quarters when he threw--what--FOUR INTERCEPTIONS?! WHAT--THE--****?! I mean here we are Lovie talking about 'accountability' (e.g. Pulling Bowman out for Jennings), and yet he allows this POS 40 year old trash-bag to continue playing. And this is against of team that's like 0-5 right now. Either way, I feel like my palm is glued to my face. On the bright side, Forte tore up that field with 166 yards, the D raped the Panther's O, especially their running game. There was 3 fumbles, 3 interceptions, and I think like 5 sacks (3 for Idonije, 1 for Briggs, and 1 for Tinoisamoa).

All in all, it looks like the NFL boat has become shaken up with the amount of teams playing worse than assumed (or better). Cowboys especially are shrinking, despite the amount of weapons they have. Same with the Packers, as their offensive game is strong, but their D and their love for penalties is really dragging them down. Hell, I honestly thought they'd beat the Skins. The only team I see that looks like it might be going anywhere is the Jets.

As for the Vikings, this is all I have to say (or rather show) about that.

[Polk]

To be honest, I've been watching more college ball than pro. Mostly Oregon State, who upset #9 in the country yesterday. I promise it isn't because Green Bay has been struggling as of late... Does anyone else care about college ball, though? That's all we have in my area, so... Green Bay fans who are actually from Wisconsin could easily be happy with the Badgers this year, seemingly. Have they lost a game yet? I know they almost lost to Arizona State a few weeks back (who Oregon State barely beat last week, too.)

Wisconsin's 5-1. They lost to Michigan State two weeks ago, I think? They're looking pretty good, the run game is phenomenal, and Tolzien looks good at quarterback.

The Packers are disappointing. The offensive line's starting to cave in again, they're killing themselves with penalties, they are racked with injuries, and the run game is as mediocre as ever. The Redskins game was painful to watch.

[Taco-Calamitous]

So for the record, I was not at home tonight, and missed the Packers/Vikings game. I am glad that the Packers ended their losing streak (was it 2 or 3 games?) although I had heard on the radio something about a touchdown that should have been reviewed and would have been turned over had it been reviewed. Reading the synopsis however, I see nothing about this; only about a Viking touchdown that was reviewed and overturned. Anyone know about this touchdown that "should have" been reviewed?

I did see the end of the Steelers/Dolphins game. That 50 yard return towards the end that put the Steelers at midfield totally killed the Dolphins, eh? I missed the end, so I didn't see how time ran out. Though I did think that Big Ben got in for that touchdown that got overturned (at the time, I thought that the official had said "the ruling on the field stands." I guess that was not the case.) What's up with the Dolphins, though? They beat the Vikings and Green Bay in close games, but they have like 4 losses? Were those against tough teams, or something? I know two at least were against Pittsburgh and NYJ. It seems like they're a fairly good team, though.

Also watched a bit of the Seahawks/Cardinals game. That looked pretty ugly in the early on. That's the best the NFC west has to offer, eh? The Seahawks have really shined in other games this season, though. I don't think they're quite there yet, though. Not the level of a few years ago, in any case. Feels like this will work out for Pete Carroll this time, though.

In college news, #1 fell again for the third weekend in a row... and the Oregon Ducks are still #2 somehow. I hate them... but they're amazing this year. They have a tendency to dig big holes and come back from them, though. I dunno if Oregon State realistically has a shot to beat them this year, even. Then again, it is the Civil War...

I kinda want to see Boise State in the National Title game. Just so they can put up or shut up this year. I'm also interested in seeing if Michigan State can win out; a friend from Yellowstone was a big fan, so I'd like to see them do well for him. I know Polk probably has a conflict of interest in that.... Anyhoo...

Wuv, Yer Mom

[Polk]

Hello football thread. It's been a while.

The Packers are now 6-3. The last two weeks the defense has looked great, shutting out the Jets (sorry Pete ), and destroying the Cowboys. The running game is as mediocre as ever, but John Kuhn is starting to look real good at fullback. The only concerning thing to me is that the Packers recently got rid of cornerback Al Harris (who's been injured the entire season), but the secondary is looking good without him, and Tramon Williams is playing like a madman, so in the immediate future, there aren't really any concerns in my eyes.

In the college game, Wisconsin is ranked #7 in the nation, after beating top ranked Ohio State, then Iowa (not sorry Rocky ), then Purdue. John Clay is running well, Scott Tolzien looks great at quarterback, and the team is overall just playing some of the best football out there.

In other important news, the Dallas Cowboys got rid of head Coach Wade Phillips after the miserable 1-7 season they've had so far. Phillips has had promising teams in his time with the Cowboys, and doesn't have much to show for it. Two NFC East titles, but he's never gone past the Divisional playoff game with the Cowboys.

[Taco-Calamitous]

Heh, I was watching that game, seeing Kuhn, and wondering, "Who's this guy? He's slow..." He had some good plays though, yeah. So did Jackson (that's the tailback, right?) That was pretty ugly when Collins made that helmet-to-helmet hit though, eh? But yeah; I was glad that I finally got to watch a whole Packers game this year. And I think this was the first game I saw them play in a long time where they didn't lose.

So how about the Browns beating the Patriots? By like 20 points? What the hell? I think they beat some other team last week that I wouldn't have thought they'd beat, too... And the other game I saw yesterday was Oakland vs. KC. Looked like a fight was gonna break out there a few times... My friend Scott is really happy, I'll bet. He's always telling me "Hey Tom! So San Diego lost, and Denver lost, and Oakland is doing this!" And I'm like "Actually, I'm a fan of those two teams more than I am of Oakland, so..." Also, the Seahawks got their asses kicked the second weekend in a row, if I remember correctly... eh.

As for College Football... fuckin' damn it. I think I might be done with College Football this year. My team is pretty much a disappointment this year, our arch rival is probably gonna go to the National Championship game (dunno if they'll win it, though.) Anyhoo...

Wuv, Yer Mom

[Polk]

Heh, I was watching that game, seeing Kuhn, and wondering, "Who's this guy? He's slow..." He had some good plays though, yeah. So did Jackson (that's the tailback, right?) That was pretty ugly when Collins made that helmet-to-helmet hit though, eh? But yeah; I was glad that I finally got to watch a whole Packers game this year. And I think this was the first game I saw them play in a long time where they didn't lose.

Jackson is Ryan Grant's replacement at running back while he's injured. He and Kuhn are both looking alright, but the run game takes a huge backseat to the pass. And, man, what a game to be around to see. Either the Cowboys are really that bad or the Packers are starting to come to be the team everybody thought they were at the beginning of the season. I personally hope it to be the latter.

In more recent news (since the Packers have a bye this week I may as well talk about this now), Wisconsin went ****ing CRAZY on Indiana this week. 83-20. God damn.

[Sasquatch]

Of course I didn't get to see it, but I found out this morning (I'm 10 1/2 hours ahead of Central time) that the Bears beat the Vikings last night. So that was definite good news -- apparently they held Adrian Peterson to 51 yards on 17 carries. And they had another three or four takeaways, maintaining the league lead in that category. Plus, Hester excelled on Special Teams, with two long returns, one for a TD. I guess one more and he ties the NFL record. If they keep using him as kickoff AND punt returner, it'll help the offense with better field position -- either he'll get it a little closer, or they'll kick it out of bounds or shorter to keep it away from him. It's a hard choice for the Bears because they want him returning as much as possible, but he's a damn good receiver, too, and they don't want him to get beat up or tired right before a drive.

The offense did well, too -- they only allowed one sack for the second game in a row, which is much better than they did for their first seven games. And the moved the ball through the air and on the ground, with Cutler completing passes to 9 different receivers and TDs to three different.

It seems like the Bears are either on or off this season. They haven't had much for a mediocre game -- either they're on the ball and pretty damn good, or they're just friggin' horrible. But they're beating the teams they need to beat (NFC North) and staying in 1st Place, so I guess I can't complain. (Yes, they're in first place -- same record as Packers, but the Bears own the tiebreaker.)

I'm not sure how the rest of the league did, though I know Packers had a bye week.

[Pete]

The Jets won, which is pretty huge for me. Second time in two weeks where the pulled a game out of their asses to win in OT. I think it's the first time in league history that a teams won twice in a row in OT... on the road.

My only real concerns though are Nick Folk having his meltdown game, where he missed 3 field goals... any of which would have just given them the win. I have a feeling it might be the same situation like when he was on the Cowboys last year; starting off hot and then sucking **** after one bad game.

My other concern is the defense and our complete lack of a three man rush being able to get to the other teams QB. On one hand, with our corners, it shouldn't be something to really worry about, but on the other hand, it'd be nice to see us knock a few QBs on their asses for losses without having to rush eight guys.

On top of that, I'm pretty happy with the way they played yesterday. Sanchez is really coming of age in the league, and can scramble like a goddamn ninja. How he avoided what should have been three definite sacks, and still threw for completions, including the game winner to Holmes is unbelievable.

In other news, **** Tom Brady.

Bears beat Vikings
Bills beat Lions
Jets beat Browns
Bucs beat Panthers
Colts beat Bengals
Dolphins beat Titans
Jags beat Texans
Broncos beat Chiefs
49ers beat Rams
Seahawks beat Cards
Cowboys beat Giants
Pats beat Steelers
Falcons beat Ravens- Thurs
Skins and Eagles play tonight

Packers, Raiders, Saints and Chargers are off

[Walter Sobchak]

Who the hell is going to win the AFC? The Jets have the best record, but they are not dominating. The Patriots are just behind, but their defense is porous. The Ravens and Steelers can't stop people when they need to. The Colts are banged up. Are the Chargers going to swoop in?

[Taco-Calamitous]

What about the Raiders? They've been good this year, gotta give 'em credit. They look like they own their division right now. I dunno about the Chargers this year; they look like they're starting to come around, but with a year like this year, seems like anyone can and will beat anyone. Who's gonna win the NFC, for that matter? The Giants had the best record last night, to my knowledge, and then they got owned by the struggling Cowboys (who may have been invigorated with a new head coach, but we'll see how long that lasts.) The Falcons have been good, so maybe them. Or the Bears or the Packers (who still have to play each other one more time ) Or the defending Super Bowl Champs, the Saints. Who have also struggled in certain games this year. This year has been pretty crazy.

And as for college ball... my team managed to lose to a then 1 and 8 team, at home, by 16 points... They're done this season. Unless they can pull their heads out of their asses and play at 110% in their next three games, which are all against really tough opponents. I don't have high hopes. Anyhoo...

Wuv, Yer Mom

[Zargabaath]

Well with the playoffs set I thought I would give my thoughts on the games that are coming up this weekend.

Saint @ Seahawks: This game does appear to be in the Saints favor though the Saints have never won on the road in the playoffs before, but all things come to an end or there is a beginning. Even though Seattle is a 7-9 team, their stadium is one of the hardest places to play. Saints do have to travel a large distance to get there as well. The Saints had a few players that were banged up this past Sunday who were pretty key parts though I'm unsure to their status so some of them may play. There were other players that were injured that may not play this Saturday so the Saints are thinned out. Hassleback was able to rest and recuperate from his injury so I can see him playing this Saturday which would increase their chance of possibly winning. These Saints do have recent playoff experience though all of it at home and a neutral field. I like the Saints in this match-up but wouldn't be surprised if the Seahawks play with great vigor because of the home-field & pull the upset.

Jets @ Colts: A repeat of the AFC Championship game. The Jets don't have the same type of power running game like last year & the Colts their past three games have stopped 3 great RBs. Peyton has fixed what was going wrong with him though he is missing Collie and Dallas Clark. Tammie has been an ok replacement. The Colts have found a running game though the Jets are good at stopping the run. The Jets don't have any pass rusher on the D-Line and will have to blitz against Peyton whom is good at picking up the blitz, making adjustments, and making a play. Cromartie isn't a total shut-down CB, but Indy isn't the well oiled machine in years past. An interesting note Peyton is 5-1(?) against a Rex Ryan defense in the playoffs and in the regular season when he is really playing to win the game 7-0 against the both Rex and Rob. So it seems that Rex's schemes do nothing. I like Indy but the Jets passing game is a lot better if it their O-Line can hold off the two outside terrors of Indy (Mathis & Freeney) and can see them putting up a lot of points to win.

Ravens @ Chiefs: Admittedly I don't know much about the Chiefs but here I go. It seems that the Chiefs live & die by the run which they are the best in the league at doing. With their run game working, Cassel is able to balance them out with a passing game, but Cassel cannot carry the team by himself - evident by this past Sunday's lost to Oakland who shut down their running game. Ravens are fifth best at stopping the run. Their running game is good as well, plus Flacco is entering his third trip to the playoffs. The Ravens have their best receiving core since Flacco's been their QB. Arrowhead Stadium is also a tough place to play as the Chiefs went 7-1 this year, however the Ravens are road warriors when it comes to the playoffs. They beat the Patriots at Gillette last year and played the Patriots very competitively at Gillette this regular season in a OT lost. They have also won in Pittsburgh. With the experience of playing in the post-season and winning on the road I'm going with the Ravens. I feel that the Chiefs have a better chance of winning than the Seahawks do, but it isn't much of a chance.

Packers @ Eagles: The Packers are 0-2 against the Eagles in the playoffs and Vick did beat the Packers as a Falcon at Lambeau back in the day. Analysis of Vick is saying that from the beating he has taken the past 6 weeks he played he has been slowing down, though with this week's rest he can be ready to explode. He'll need to be because his O-Line won't be much help to him and they Packers D has the speed and mobility to rein him in. The Packers D has also been player a lot better and this year gave up the second-fewest points - only 8 more than Pittsburgh. The Packers are tied for second with two other teams (Chargers & Raiders) for total sacks and second in INT - Eagles are third in INT. The first week Vich played so well because Kaper's didn't plan for Vick to be in the game, this time he'll be game planning and does a good job. Even in their loss to the Patriots, the Packers D had been able to keep Tom Brady condensed. They also shut-down their arch-rivals the Bears who were able to score 38 against the Jets D. The Eagles D is 12th best overall and did provide trouble for the Packers in the first game of the season though the Pack were able to overcome that. Without Ryan and Finley, the latter, who did play in the game it will be harder for the Packers to score. In lieu of that obstacle the Packers have been able to find themselves offensively and Rodgers has been exceptional; the Bears D contained the Packers because Urlacher and the rest know the rivalry between the two teams and would not think of relaxing. Rodgers does have playoff experience, only 1 game, where he started slowly but then threw for 4 TDs in the second half and lead them to 35 points in that same half. I'm expecting jitters from Rodgers and the Packers offense, but I like them in this game against a dangerous Vick team though that depends on which Vick shows up.

[Taco-Calamitous]

Well, the wild card weekend is over, and I can say that I am rather pleased with the outcomes of all four games. Except maybe Seattle vs. New Orleans, though I didn't really care either way.

It's only slightly surprising to me that Seattle won that game, though; they've been pretty awesome all year at home, and won some games that they perhaps had no chance in hell winning on the road. And... next game's on the road at Chicago. I think they're toast. I think. Although who really thought they'd beat New Orleans, honestly? Heard that Marshawn Lynch had a huge running play in the game yesterday. Think I should link it... here.

...lol! Holy shit! That was the first time I actually saw that just now. He shoved that guy like 5 yards forward in front of him! That was awesome.

I didn't see any of the Jets vs. Colts game, but I hear they won by one point. Suck it, Peyton. Also, glad to hear that LT is still kickin' ass (why did the Chargers ever get rid of him?)

Saw the last quarter of the Ravens vs. the KC Chiefs, because I slept in today. Not really a lot to say about that, although I noted all the fighting, and I note that the last KC game I watched versus Oakland also had a lot of fighting. I thought it was Oakland, but man... one play that was well over, a KC defensive player was guiding Todd Heap around by his helmet, like he was trying to pull it off. No flag. Just a warning to both coaches that players would start to get ejected. Bull. That referee was right there to see that happening. That player should've been thrown out. But anyway; hope TJ Houshmandzadeh gets to go to the Super Bowl this year; that'd be awesome.

Finally, the only game I watched in its entirety... Packers vs. Eagles. Packers never trailed... although they gave me some heart attacks. Fifteen, to be precise. ESPECIALLY THAT FUCKIN' DROPPED PASS AT THE END OF THE FIRST HALF THAT WOULD'VE BEEN A SURE TD, DAMNIT!! ...ahem. Good game, though. Unless you're an Eagles fan. Just like last week, they went down to the wire. And just like last week, the defense came up with a big interception to end the game. And then the postgame show happened, and while they were interviewing Aaron Rodgers-while he was in mid sentence-Desean Jackson ran up and patted him on the chest. Rodgers was like, "-Oh hey buddy-" and then continued his original train of thought. I lol'ed, because they played together at Cal. Wish I could find a video of it, but that's not up yet. EDIT Here is it is:


As for the games next week... Seattle is gonna get eaten by Chicago, who ate them earlier this year (or was that one of the games Seattle won that I didn't think they should? Don't remember.) They always play crappy on the road. Then the Jets vs. Patriots... eh, sorry Pete. I think the Pats got this one, unless the Jets really dig deep for redemption from earlier this year. Steelers vs. Ravens.... probably Steelers. The Ravens are a great team this year, but I think the Steelers are better. I think they beat the Ravens both games they played this year, right? So yeah. Sorry TJ. Packers vs. Falcons... maybe it's because I'm a Green Bay fan, but I really see them winning this one. They played a close game at Atlanta earlier this year that went down to the wire, and they did it without a solid running game. Plus, they're red hot right now. So that's my upset pick, or something. Anyhoo...

Wuv, Yer Mom

[Pete]

I'm still in recovery from that Jets game. They played relatively well, but would have had a much easier time if my boy Sanchez wouldn't have overthrown his receivers. Other than that, Nick Folk will certainly give me a heart attack in the near future, especially when he was kicking for the win. He can make a chip shot into a freakin rollercoaster ride. overall though, I'm ecstatic that we beat Peyton, but I think we definitely have the hardest road to the Super Bowl by far. Brady and the Pats next week, then either the Steelers or Ravens after that.

We've beat Brady before, and have been beaten down by him, so I think we're gonna come out all fired up and ready for some revenge. Do we win it? I doubt it, but hell, as long as we put up a good fight, and knock that muppet on his ass a few times, I'll be content.

[Polk]

ESPECIALLY THAT FUCKIN' DROPPED PASS AT THE END OF THE FIRST HALF THAT WOULD'VE BEEN A SURE TD, DAMNIT!! ...ahem.

I know! Wasn't that the second week in a row a Packers receiver's dropped a sure touchdown right before the half? Aggravating.

But I'm glad the offense decided to show up for the game. Especially the run game. And Rodgers looked good, too. Good to see that he can win when the pressure's on. If the Packers play like that against Atlanta, they have a legit shot to upset them.

That Seattle game was crazy, too. I was getting food with some friends at this Mexican place, and by the fourth quarter, almost everybody in the place was in the bar watching the game. I wouldn't mind seeing Seattle beat the Bears, too. **** Brian Urlacher.

[Zargabaath]

Thankfully it is Friday - not yet Saturday - but I am done with work. All 4 games this weekend have a draw to them and shall be a good watch.

Ravens @ Steelers: Saturday starts off with a bang with probably the best rivalry currently in the NFL. I expect both defenses to show up so points should be scarce. I'm not expecting much from either run-game, this contest will most likely be decided by the air. Roethlisberger has two rings and is a very good QB that often gets overlooked. Flacco is definitely not on par with Big Ben but he does have his best receivinng corp to date which is a plus for Joe. How Polamalu's ankle will be key for the Steelers defense as he is the integral part for that D. I'm picking the Ravens for the upset; Steelers have handled the Ravens well in the postseason though I think the Ravens have around a 40% chance of winning the game.


Packers @ Falcons: Saturday's second game is another great match-up and second round. Packers got to contain Falcons running game. Falcons have to prepare more for the Packers running game, mainly Starks, because it was effective against Philly - they gotta cover any possibility. Ryan completed 24/28 passes last time, but only for 197. Rodgers threw for 344 and was their best rusher for 51 yds. I'm not saying that Starks is going to run for another 100 yds, but with him I feel that the Packers running game will be better. I believe in Capers and picking the Packers D to be the better of the two. Another evenly match-up that could go either way. I like the Packers because of their D, which is pretty big in the playoffs, and Rodgers in a close game.


Seahawks @ Bears: Doubtful Seahawks can upset the better tackling Bears, but with beating the Saints they do have a lot of confidence and since they are once again heavy underdogs they don't have anything to lose - they could play with a lot of heart once again pulling another upset. Seahawks were able to keep the Bears run game in check their first time and sack Cutler aroud 6 times. Bears O-Line is better but in their last game the Packers did sack Cutler a few times. Bears have the pressure on them not to lose the game; this is Cutler's first playoff game so he may be the "turn the ball over Cutler". However, Rodgers in his first game last year went 4 TD & 1 INT, but Rodgers doesn't have the reputation and stats like Cutler whom still threw over 20 INT this year. Why I believe the Bears will win: their defense which is a lot better than the first time facing the Seahawks. This is Hassleback's 11th playoff game so he has the exp & they do have Lynch to provide a run game which may be important depending on the weather. I say the Bears have a 75% chance of winning.


Jets @ Patriots: In the past 2 years the Jets have gone to Gillette they lost; this year it was a smackdown. Rex Ryan did adjust his strategy against Peyton last week hardly blitzing so maybe he can adjust and see how to attack Brady. The Jets run will be vital for if they can get 150 yds or so that will keep Brady off the field which is how the Browns beat the Patriots in the regular season. The Patriots do have Wilfork whom is great at stopping the run, however, I'm unsure if any of their other D-Linemen who can stop the run are back. If not, Wilfork could get tired like in the Packers game when he was the only one, which would allow the Jets to get some good yardage. Brady has a way better postseason record than Peyton though Brady is 4-4 in his last 8 playoff games. I don't think it will be a blowout but I feel the Patriots will win.

[Polk]

Let me tell y'all about the Green Bay Packers.

They're pretty good.

EDIT: For those that haven't seen yet, Packers just trounced the Falcons, 48-21.

[Zargabaath]

When Jennings fumbled on the Packs third play of the game I thought this was going to be like Philly where the Pack had 4 fumbles - 2 lost. Then they were able to tie the score & the ensuing kickoff happened... I was in disgust because first the fumble now this. But Rodgers was able to march down the field again from inside the 10 and even the score. I was happy that so far the Falcons couldn't stop the Packers offense. After that it was all Packers; I did not expect the Packers to put up so many points.

Did anyone catch Rodgers comments about playing inside? He can wear his favorite shoes that don't hurt his feet. Feet huh? Is there a secret organization of feet in the NFL? Feet Illuminati? Wes Welker and Aaron Rodgers. Does that make Rodgers apart of the Empire?