They are not though. More than 50% of the articles I have read have beento explain it away as just a stupid mistake or part of the game.
College Football & NFL thread 2007/8
- Thread starter Desert Eagle
- Start date
They are not though. More than 50% of the articles I have read have beento explain it away as just a stupid mistake or part of the game.
Micky Spagnola's comments...
Not saying NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will factor this into his punishment of the Patriots for illegally videotaping opposing teams’ defensive signals during games, but his skin must have crawled on Thursday when he saw this headline above a picture of Patriots head coach Bill Belichick on the back page of the Philadelphia Daily News: "Counterfeit RING: Spy Scandal Helps Explain Birds' Super Bowl Loss." And yes, there were some Eagles players questioning why the Patriots always seemed to have a screen called when they were running a blitz in the Super Bowl. Might we have a case of diminished genius going on here? This is what happens when you damage the fabric of the game.
Eagles questioning SB loss... http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/sports/5133220.html
Sept. 13, 2007, 8:53PM
Pats scandal makes Philly question Super Bowl loss
Spying accusations has Eagles trying to recall anything suspicious
By DAN GELSTON
Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA — Sheldon Brown and the Eagles hoped a blitz would rattle Tom Brady.
One problem: Every time the Eagles rushed Brady in the Super Bowl, the Patriots nullified the defensive attack with screen passes. Lots of them. On almost every play defensive coordinator Jim Johnson called for a blitz, the Patriots used the short pass to confuse the Eagles.
After the Patriots beat the Eagles 24-21 in 2005 to win the Lombardi Trophy, Brown thought the Patriots beat them with nothing but sharp offensive playcalling. Now, he's not so sure.
With spying accusations leveled this week against the Patriots, some of the Eagles left from the NFC title team are wondering if New England used bootleg film to their advantage in the Super Bowl.
``Do I think about it? Mmm hmmm,'' said Brown, their starting cornerback. ``It's crazy. I just don't know how far back it goes. Something's not right about that.''
Pro Bowl safety Brian Dawkins found the accusations troublesome.
``Now there's always going to be questions about the situation,'' Dawkins said Thursday. ``Was it great adjustments at halftime or what?''
Pittsburgh wide receiver Hines Ward said this week that he suspected the Patriots had some type of inside information on the Steelers before at least one of the teams' two AFC championship game matchups since the 2001 season. While Ward said the Patriots knew a lot of Pittsburgh's calls, none of the Eagles could offer any type of solid proof of any shenanigans.
``For me to think back two years ago about something they may or may not have done, it's not worth my time,'' running back Brian Westbrook said.
New England beat the New York Jets in last Sunday's season opener in which an on-field video camera focusing on Jets coaches was confiscated from a Patriots employee.
On Thursday, New England coach Bill Belichick was fined the NFL maximum of $500,000 and the Patriots were ordered to pay $250,000 for spying on an opponent's defensive signals. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell also ordered the team to give up next year's first-round draft choice if it reaches the playoffs and second- and third-round picks if it doesn't.
``I would like to think it's just one team doing it, but it doesn't shock me that it happened,'' Dawkins said.
Some Eagles said occasional signal-stealing is an accepted part of the game. But they believe what the Patriots are accused of doing crosses the football morality line because it threatens the integrity of the game.
``It's different if you're talking about recording it,'' Dawkins said. ``What can you do if you try to signal a play in?''
Eagles coach Andy Reid steered away from questions about the alleged cheating other than to say he has no doubts New England's victory was legitimate.
``That's something Bill and the Patriots are working through,'' Reid said.
Brown said he noticed a difference in New England's playcalling in the second quarter. After the Patriots gained only 45 yards in the first quarter, they had 286 over the next three.
Brady hit running back Corey Dillon and gained 29 total yards on a pair of screens to open New England's first full drive of the second quarter. They didn't score on that drive, but did on four of the next five drives.
The Patriots went to the screen pass again on the decisive drive early in the fourth quarter, this time with Brady connecting with Kevin Faulk on two passes for 27 yards.
``I was like, 'Man, I never saw that many screens,'' Brown said.
Brown wonders if it was normal playcalling from a team good enough to win three Super Bowls in four seasons, a Patriots team that used a strong scouting report to gain a fair edge, or was somebody picking up the Eagles defensive calls from a sideline camera that deprived them of a fair shot?
``I think they should forfeit, man,'' said punt returner Reno Mahe, smiling. ``We won the Super Bowl. I think we should get it. I'm going to go trade my NFC championship ring for a Super Bowl ring.''
The headline over a picture of Belichick on the back page of Thursday's Philadelphia Daily News might have said it all: ``Counterfeit RING: Spy Scandal Helps Explain Birds' Super Bowl Loss.''
Hey, maybe the illicit tape would show once and for all if Donovan McNabb really did get sick in the huddle late in the game. Remember, that was Philadelphia's first excuse for losing.
McNabb - who insisted the Eagles would never stoop to those kind of tactics - was surprised to hear the allegations against the Patriots. But he said the suspicions might be overblown.
``One thing people are forgetting is that even if you have the answers to the test, you still have to take the test,'' he said. ``If they have an idea of what's coming, those guys still have to be able to execute the play.''
That doesn't mean McNabb won't clear some space in his jewelry box. For a city that last saw a pro team win a championship nearly 25 years ago, the Eagles might accept a retroactive one.
``Maybe we'll get our ring back,'' said a chuckling McNabb. ``Maybe we'll get the real one.''
Not saying NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will factor this into his punishment of the Patriots for illegally videotaping opposing teams’ defensive signals during games, but his skin must have crawled on Thursday when he saw this headline above a picture of Patriots head coach Bill Belichick on the back page of the Philadelphia Daily News: "Counterfeit RING: Spy Scandal Helps Explain Birds' Super Bowl Loss." And yes, there were some Eagles players questioning why the Patriots always seemed to have a screen called when they were running a blitz in the Super Bowl. Might we have a case of diminished genius going on here? This is what happens when you damage the fabric of the game.
Eagles questioning SB loss... http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/sports/5133220.html
Sept. 13, 2007, 8:53PM
Pats scandal makes Philly question Super Bowl loss
Spying accusations has Eagles trying to recall anything suspicious
By DAN GELSTON
Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA — Sheldon Brown and the Eagles hoped a blitz would rattle Tom Brady.
One problem: Every time the Eagles rushed Brady in the Super Bowl, the Patriots nullified the defensive attack with screen passes. Lots of them. On almost every play defensive coordinator Jim Johnson called for a blitz, the Patriots used the short pass to confuse the Eagles.
After the Patriots beat the Eagles 24-21 in 2005 to win the Lombardi Trophy, Brown thought the Patriots beat them with nothing but sharp offensive playcalling. Now, he's not so sure.
With spying accusations leveled this week against the Patriots, some of the Eagles left from the NFC title team are wondering if New England used bootleg film to their advantage in the Super Bowl.
``Do I think about it? Mmm hmmm,'' said Brown, their starting cornerback. ``It's crazy. I just don't know how far back it goes. Something's not right about that.''
Pro Bowl safety Brian Dawkins found the accusations troublesome.
``Now there's always going to be questions about the situation,'' Dawkins said Thursday. ``Was it great adjustments at halftime or what?''
Pittsburgh wide receiver Hines Ward said this week that he suspected the Patriots had some type of inside information on the Steelers before at least one of the teams' two AFC championship game matchups since the 2001 season. While Ward said the Patriots knew a lot of Pittsburgh's calls, none of the Eagles could offer any type of solid proof of any shenanigans.
``For me to think back two years ago about something they may or may not have done, it's not worth my time,'' running back Brian Westbrook said.
New England beat the New York Jets in last Sunday's season opener in which an on-field video camera focusing on Jets coaches was confiscated from a Patriots employee.
On Thursday, New England coach Bill Belichick was fined the NFL maximum of $500,000 and the Patriots were ordered to pay $250,000 for spying on an opponent's defensive signals. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell also ordered the team to give up next year's first-round draft choice if it reaches the playoffs and second- and third-round picks if it doesn't.
``I would like to think it's just one team doing it, but it doesn't shock me that it happened,'' Dawkins said.
Some Eagles said occasional signal-stealing is an accepted part of the game. But they believe what the Patriots are accused of doing crosses the football morality line because it threatens the integrity of the game.
``It's different if you're talking about recording it,'' Dawkins said. ``What can you do if you try to signal a play in?''
Eagles coach Andy Reid steered away from questions about the alleged cheating other than to say he has no doubts New England's victory was legitimate.
``That's something Bill and the Patriots are working through,'' Reid said.
Brown said he noticed a difference in New England's playcalling in the second quarter. After the Patriots gained only 45 yards in the first quarter, they had 286 over the next three.
Brady hit running back Corey Dillon and gained 29 total yards on a pair of screens to open New England's first full drive of the second quarter. They didn't score on that drive, but did on four of the next five drives.
The Patriots went to the screen pass again on the decisive drive early in the fourth quarter, this time with Brady connecting with Kevin Faulk on two passes for 27 yards.
``I was like, 'Man, I never saw that many screens,'' Brown said.
Brown wonders if it was normal playcalling from a team good enough to win three Super Bowls in four seasons, a Patriots team that used a strong scouting report to gain a fair edge, or was somebody picking up the Eagles defensive calls from a sideline camera that deprived them of a fair shot?
``I think they should forfeit, man,'' said punt returner Reno Mahe, smiling. ``We won the Super Bowl. I think we should get it. I'm going to go trade my NFC championship ring for a Super Bowl ring.''
The headline over a picture of Belichick on the back page of Thursday's Philadelphia Daily News might have said it all: ``Counterfeit RING: Spy Scandal Helps Explain Birds' Super Bowl Loss.''
Hey, maybe the illicit tape would show once and for all if Donovan McNabb really did get sick in the huddle late in the game. Remember, that was Philadelphia's first excuse for losing.
McNabb - who insisted the Eagles would never stoop to those kind of tactics - was surprised to hear the allegations against the Patriots. But he said the suspicions might be overblown.
``One thing people are forgetting is that even if you have the answers to the test, you still have to take the test,'' he said. ``If they have an idea of what's coming, those guys still have to be able to execute the play.''
That doesn't mean McNabb won't clear some space in his jewelry box. For a city that last saw a pro team win a championship nearly 25 years ago, the Eagles might accept a retroactive one.
``Maybe we'll get our ring back,'' said a chuckling McNabb. ``Maybe we'll get the real one.''
Source: Bills tight end Everett slightly moved 3 fingers on right hand
By JOHN WAWROW, AP Sports Writer
September 14, 2007
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) -- Kevin Everett has slightly moved three fingers on his right hand, potentially another positive sign in his recovery from a life-threatening spinal-cord injury, a person close to the family told The Associated Press on Friday.
The Buffalo tight end voluntarily moved his fingers Thursday night "more than a little bit but not with great force," said the person who requested anonymity because of the sensitive nature of Everett's status. "There was slight movement."
Dr. Barth Green of the Miami Project also told The Miami Herald on Friday that Everett showed movement in his fingers early Friday morning. Green said he spoke on the phone with Bills orthopedic surgeon Andrew Cappuccino, who updated him.
On Wednesday, doctors said Everett could wiggle his toes, bend his hip, move his ankles, elevate and kick his leg, as well as extend his elbows and slightly flex his biceps. But he had not been able to move his hands.
Bills spokesman Scott Berchtold didn't immediately return messages left by the AP. Officials at Millard Fillmore Gates Hospital have deferred all updates to the Bills.
Everett was hurt Sunday after ducking his head while tackling Denver's Domenik Hixon during the second-half kickoff in the season opener. The Buffalo player dropped face-first after his helmet hit Hixon high on the left shoulder and side of the helmet.
When Everett arrived at the hospital Sunday, he was paralyzed below his neck. Since then, he has shown signs of improvement and was taken off a respirator Wednesday.
------------------------------------------------------------
More good news
By JOHN WAWROW, AP Sports Writer
September 14, 2007
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) -- Kevin Everett has slightly moved three fingers on his right hand, potentially another positive sign in his recovery from a life-threatening spinal-cord injury, a person close to the family told The Associated Press on Friday.
The Buffalo tight end voluntarily moved his fingers Thursday night "more than a little bit but not with great force," said the person who requested anonymity because of the sensitive nature of Everett's status. "There was slight movement."
Dr. Barth Green of the Miami Project also told The Miami Herald on Friday that Everett showed movement in his fingers early Friday morning. Green said he spoke on the phone with Bills orthopedic surgeon Andrew Cappuccino, who updated him.
On Wednesday, doctors said Everett could wiggle his toes, bend his hip, move his ankles, elevate and kick his leg, as well as extend his elbows and slightly flex his biceps. But he had not been able to move his hands.
Bills spokesman Scott Berchtold didn't immediately return messages left by the AP. Officials at Millard Fillmore Gates Hospital have deferred all updates to the Bills.
Everett was hurt Sunday after ducking his head while tackling Denver's Domenik Hixon during the second-half kickoff in the season opener. The Buffalo player dropped face-first after his helmet hit Hixon high on the left shoulder and side of the helmet.
When Everett arrived at the hospital Sunday, he was paralyzed below his neck. Since then, he has shown signs of improvement and was taken off a respirator Wednesday.
------------------------------------------------------------
More good news
Definitely, hopefully his recovery will be a full one....
He obviously will never play again, but just being able to live a normal life will be an amazing result for Everett.
Another nailbiter from the niners but we get the all important W. 2-0 for the first time since 98'.
will do a team by team breakdown after the monday nighter between Philly and Washington.
will do a team by team breakdown after the monday nighter between Philly and Washington.
The Jets are now alleging ANOTHER thing occured on opening day.
Now they believe that there were rogue radio receivers picking up their communications system.
BB assured PG that there was nothing else he needed to own up to and this was a one time incident. Reportedly PG informed the Pats that anything else would be dealt with much more harshly as they had a chance to come clean.
The commissioner's office apparently will be looking into this radio receiver issue starting Monday.
If this is true, there could be some staggering consequences for the Patriots, and at that point I think it is quite right to start questioning the legitimacy of their 'legacy' since we don't know what else they've done and how often.
PG as much as indicated on NBC tonight that they were aware this wasn't an isolated case of taping from them. The Pats have been ordered to turn over everything relating to this incident and their practices, and if they don't the sanctions could increase to even more severe levels.
There could be a great deal more mileage in this yet.
Now they believe that there were rogue radio receivers picking up their communications system.
BB assured PG that there was nothing else he needed to own up to and this was a one time incident. Reportedly PG informed the Pats that anything else would be dealt with much more harshly as they had a chance to come clean.
The commissioner's office apparently will be looking into this radio receiver issue starting Monday.
If this is true, there could be some staggering consequences for the Patriots, and at that point I think it is quite right to start questioning the legitimacy of their 'legacy' since we don't know what else they've done and how often.
PG as much as indicated on NBC tonight that they were aware this wasn't an isolated case of taping from them. The Pats have been ordered to turn over everything relating to this incident and their practices, and if they don't the sanctions could increase to even more severe levels.
There could be a great deal more mileage in this yet.
Oh, and I can't believe the Bucs owned the Saints today.
How poor have the Saints turned out to be this year? Last week I figured fair enough, this week there are no excuses. When you make Garcia look like a pro-bowler at this point in his career, you suck.
Unlucky Bengals today. Looks like the right decision on the Brown's part to change QBs. And the Colts had a horrid day and yet won anyway.
The Chargers suddenly look like crap under Turner. I've never rated him all that highly. LT's not doing preseason looks to have finally caught up with him. He has been very poor.
I like Eli Manning, but the Giants are really struggling. I knew this year would be tough, but they need a W sooner than later or Eli's confidence will go into the shitter, the team will implode internally, and that bastard of a head coach will start blaming everyone in sight except himself.
How poor have the Saints turned out to be this year? Last week I figured fair enough, this week there are no excuses. When you make Garcia look like a pro-bowler at this point in his career, you suck.
Unlucky Bengals today. Looks like the right decision on the Brown's part to change QBs. And the Colts had a horrid day and yet won anyway.
The Chargers suddenly look like crap under Turner. I've never rated him all that highly. LT's not doing preseason looks to have finally caught up with him. He has been very poor.
I like Eli Manning, but the Giants are really struggling. I knew this year would be tough, but they need a W sooner than later or Eli's confidence will go into the shitter, the team will implode internally, and that bastard of a head coach will start blaming everyone in sight except himself.
I actually had 50 bucks on the bengals at -6.5and was going to put another 50 but then decided to put it on over instead. That was a close call. The Bengals had an absolutely miserable day on defense. They were torched by Lewis on the ground and the secondary was a shambles. I have to say on the basis of this performance I think their opening day victory over the Ravens was a fluke. they will get murdered byt teams like the Colts or Blockbusters.
The Tampa result was extremely unexpected. Garcia is a good Qb though and gets a lot of stick that is undeserved imo. Was great for the Eagles last year and he will do a good job for the Bucs. His footballing intelligence is very underated.
LT, Jackson and LJ have all started poorly though in the latter two cases a shitty O-line is the main reason. The Chargers have just played two of the best defenses in the NFL so LT gets a pass.
I always thought Eli was overrated by the media. He was never going to be the savior of Giants football. He has played well in the two games so far though I haven't seen the giants-packers game yet. The Cowboys are looking very good even with a makeshift D and are on the verge of becoming NFC favorites imo especially if the Saints keep digging themselves into holes and Grossman still plays like .... Grossman.
I've just now noticed that Kentucky and South Florida are ranked in this week's AP poll.
Has hell frozen over?
I note Florida can do nothing on earth to get a fair shake after the media pre-determined LSU to be the best in the SEC. And of course USC must be first because they play in the mighty PAC10.
The USC thing for me is a bit like the obsession with the Big Ten last year. We've seen how good Michigan and Ohio State proved to be up against the best of the SEC and against USC.
Yes, USC is an excellent team. But they will only play a couple of truly challenging games all season, and having been declared number one before a ball was kicked will likely make it to the title game simply by avoiding a major upset.
The coalition must go, imho. Time for a top four playoff.
Has hell frozen over?
I note Florida can do nothing on earth to get a fair shake after the media pre-determined LSU to be the best in the SEC. And of course USC must be first because they play in the mighty PAC10.
The USC thing for me is a bit like the obsession with the Big Ten last year. We've seen how good Michigan and Ohio State proved to be up against the best of the SEC and against USC.
Yes, USC is an excellent team. But they will only play a couple of truly challenging games all season, and having been declared number one before a ball was kicked will likely make it to the title game simply by avoiding a major upset.
The coalition must go, imho. Time for a top four playoff.
I've just now noticed that Kentucky and South Florida are ranked in this week's AP poll.
Has hell frozen over?
I note Florida can do nothing on earth to get a fair shake after the media pre-determined LSU to be the best in the SEC. And of course USC must be first because they play in the mighty PAC10.
The USC thing for me is a bit like the obsession with the Big Ten last year. We've seen how good Michigan and Ohio State proved to be up against the best of the SEC and against USC.
Yes, USC is an excellent team. But they will only play a couple of truly challenging games all season, and having been declared number one before a ball was kicked will likely make it to the title game simply by avoiding a major upset.
The coalition must go, imho. Time for a top four playoff.
Time for a NCAA style tournament. Most players and fans are for it and I assume it would be good for ratings so I can't see whats holding them back.
Whats up with Notre Dame? They have been piss poor so far. Diego Forlan's Headband explain why your team has so royally sucked?
I've got a very soft spot for an old Gator like Rex, although I acknowledge he is a piss poor QB. Julissa has declared herself an unofficial Bears fan due to Rex largely because she feels sorry for him!
Eli has been built up to ridiculous expectations, which is horribly unfair but probably inevitable given his brother. There's just something about him I like. He's a solid player who will have a good career, but he's never going to be a world beater.
Garcia has never impressed me. Maybe I'm being unfair, and he did do well last year for the Eagles. The Bucs are just not as good as today's result made it look. Glad to see Cadillac finally break the 207(!) rushes without a TD streak. Us in Tampa have a much more negative opinion of the Bucs and of Gruden than the rest of the country does though. After being told Simms (on the basis of the fact his dad was good) was our QB saviour, hearing it again about an aging QB like Garcia is a bit unconvincing. Lets see what he does against a truly strong defence.
I was very surprised by how bad the Chargers were tonight. I know the Pats are perhaps stronger than their previous Superbowl teams, and Moss is back to his form when he was in his early 20s, but the Chargers were staggeringly good last year and had every reason to be 'up' for this game. They killed themselves within the first two minutes.
The argument against the playoff has been that the poor kids can't play an extra game.
So they go and add an extra game to everyone's schedule a few years back.
It can even be done within the current coalition system. The two bowls who don't get the title game that year get the semis. Then the title game happens as planned.
It means one extra game for two teams. I reckon those players would make that sacrifice for a shot at the title.
As for Notre Dame, they (like other Northern 'historic' schools) have been massively overrated for years. I can't believe they're as bad as they've been so far this year. Like Michigan in their second game I reckon it is a case of being shocked into a shell.
I can't believe the Bear didn't go for either Garcia or Culpepper in the off-season. Both are past their prime but would still be a huge improvement on Grossman. In the relatively weak NFC that upgrade at Qb might make them unstoppable.
Eli is a good solid Qb and can definitely lead a team to the play-offs but when its clutch time I doubt many people would back him to make that game-winning pass.
The Chargers like you said were 17-0 down early and you rarely come back from that kind of deficit especially against a team like the blockbusters.
My thoughts on the second niners game:
Another fecking close call. First the positives: Our defense has been superb. Containing Jackson like we did today won't be done by many teams and Although Bulger got the yards the Rams only got into the red zone once if i recall. Clements wsa again superb and that play where he stripped the ball from Holt was huge.
special mention to Gore whose mother passed away earlier that week. For him to be able to play at such a high level shows his mental strength. The play where we decided to gofor it on 4th and 1 near the end of the 3rd quarter was great. Also Smith had another solid day. no turnovers.
Two negatives:
1) Vernon Davis. He is supposed to be one of the top TE's in the league but has been very quiet in the first two games. Needs to pick it up though part of the problem comes fromthe offensive play calling whichis my second negative.
2) Hostler: needs to grow some balls!! The offensive play calling was extremely conservative. Only 17 pass attempts from Smith. On 3rd and 5 he chose to go with a running play. That is an insult to Alex Smith especially after he led us to a win last week in the clutch. When you need a play give the ball to your Qb to make it happen. The likes of Jackson,Battle and Davis are virtual non-factors in games now. Mike Nolan needs to sort it out because when we visit the Steelers next week, the offense better clickor we will lose our first game.
Another fecking close call. First the positives: Our defense has been superb. Containing Jackson like we did today won't be done by many teams and Although Bulger got the yards the Rams only got into the red zone once if i recall. Clements wsa again superb and that play where he stripped the ball from Holt was huge.
special mention to Gore whose mother passed away earlier that week. For him to be able to play at such a high level shows his mental strength. The play where we decided to gofor it on 4th and 1 near the end of the 3rd quarter was great. Also Smith had another solid day. no turnovers.
Two negatives:
1) Vernon Davis. He is supposed to be one of the top TE's in the league but has been very quiet in the first two games. Needs to pick it up though part of the problem comes fromthe offensive play calling whichis my second negative.
2) Hostler: needs to grow some balls!! The offensive play calling was extremely conservative. Only 17 pass attempts from Smith. On 3rd and 5 he chose to go with a running play. That is an insult to Alex Smith especially after he led us to a win last week in the clutch. When you need a play give the ball to your Qb to make it happen. The likes of Jackson,Battle and Davis are virtual non-factors in games now. Mike Nolan needs to sort it out because when we visit the Steelers next week, the offense better clickor we will lose our first game.
How 'bout dem Cowboys?
The D should get a huge lift once Newman returns but losing Ferguson was a massive blow. Ratliff has played pretty good in his absence but I don't think he can hold up for an entire 16 game schedule as the run-stuffing nose tackle. I think Tank Johnson might be on the Boys radar come October, after his 8 game suspension ends. I'm not into signing players with legal and mental issues, but if he can help the club on the field then get him. I'm also hoping Greg Ellis will eventually return to the field. His rushing abilities will make opposing offenses not afford to double team Ware.
I'm also fearful Glenn may end up injuring himself further when he returns. The Boys had reportedly discussed a contract with Reche Caldwell dependent upon Glenn electing season ending surgery or a simple scope. Since Glenn went with the scope, the Boys didn't offer Caldwell a contract and he then received an offer from the deadSkins.
Bring on da Bears. Should be an excellent Monday nighter. Great offense against a great defense.
The D should get a huge lift once Newman returns but losing Ferguson was a massive blow. Ratliff has played pretty good in his absence but I don't think he can hold up for an entire 16 game schedule as the run-stuffing nose tackle. I think Tank Johnson might be on the Boys radar come October, after his 8 game suspension ends. I'm not into signing players with legal and mental issues, but if he can help the club on the field then get him. I'm also hoping Greg Ellis will eventually return to the field. His rushing abilities will make opposing offenses not afford to double team Ware.
I'm also fearful Glenn may end up injuring himself further when he returns. The Boys had reportedly discussed a contract with Reche Caldwell dependent upon Glenn electing season ending surgery or a simple scope. Since Glenn went with the scope, the Boys didn't offer Caldwell a contract and he then received an offer from the deadSkins.
Bring on da Bears. Should be an excellent Monday nighter. Great offense against a great defense.
Spygate not over...
Roger Goodell's investigation of Bill Belichick only starting
BY HANK GOLA
DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
Monday, September 17th 2007, 4:00 AM
FOXBORO - Bill Belichick desperately wants to put SpyGate behind him, but commissioner Roger Goodell's investigation may only be starting.
As Patriots fans were giving Belichick a rousing standing ovation before last night's game against the Chargers last night, NBC reported the Jets probably will ask the NFL to look into the Patriots' use of unauthorized radio frequencies. There have been reports the Patriots were wiring their defensive players' helmets to pick up the quarterback's audibles, a practice that could be especially beneficial against no-huddle offenses such as the one the Jets were using.
In an interview on NBC's pregame show, Goodell said the league will monitor "all 32 clubs, Patriots included.
"We've heard a lot of rumors about things that have been done, either with audio, player-coach communication," he said.
Reports also surfaced that Goodell had ordered the Patriots to turn over all videotape and materials related to the team's stealing of opposing coaches' sideline signals. Goodell, who fined Belichick $500,000 and docked the Patriots conditional draft picks, would impose further sanctions on the team if it does not comply or if it copies the tapes and files in question. Goodell also told NBC that there could be more penalties for the Pats if he gets information that is not consistent with the information he already has.
According to league spokesman Greg Aiello, this is not a new development but just part of Goodell's promise to review and monitor the team's videotaping procedures. It will also ensure that the Patriots cannot use the information they accumulated against future opponents. That was the crux of Belichick's argument - that his "interpretation" of the rule meant he could not apply the video data on that particular day.
In the days before he was hit by the commissioner with a $500,000 fine, Belichick had agreed to a contract extension that would keep him in New England through the 2013 season. There had been speculation that Belichick's contract would expire after this season, when the coach is reportedly making $4.2 million. Estimates are the new deal will pay him anywhere between $6 million and $8 million annually. None of those numbers have been divulged by the Patriots.
The turbulent week for New England included criticism from Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson.
"I think the Patriots live by the saying, 'If you're not cheating, you're not trying,'" said Tomlinson.
That opinion was echoed in locker rooms around the league, particularly those who had lost big games to the Pats over the years.
It seemed as if Belichick had created the very thing he abhors, a distraction. And this one doesn't look as though it's going away.
-----------------------
And TO's TD celebration mocks spygate. The players have a good point on why Wilson gets suspended (and loses salary because of) for treating a personal problem but Belicheat gets no suspension for blatantly violating league rules. And it's not like Wilson's steroid use is going to make him a better player - he's been retired since 1997!
Tim MacMahon's In the Know
T.O. takes a shot at Belichick, Patriots
10:51 PM CDT on Sunday, September 16, 2007
MIAMI – Leave it to Terrell Owens to publicly poke at the NFL's touchiest subject.
Wade Phillips wasn't happy about the penalty flag that followed, but T.O.'s touchdown celebration was a cinematic classic. Two thumbs up for timing, creativity and comedic value after he pretended to take a video camera out of the goal post and faux filmed for a few seconds. The popcorn flying from Cowboys fans in the stands was a fitting touch, too.
The celebration, of course, was a not-so-subtle shot at the Spygate controversy that unfolded this week with the Patriots. T.O. delivered the knockout punch on commissioner Roger Goodell and the non-suspended New England coach now known as "Bill Belicheat" during his postgame press conference.
"I hope they don't give me a hefty fine like they gave Belichick," T.O. deadpanned.
Consider that a shot fired from the "Free Wade Wilson" campaign. Several Cowboys have wondered why an assistant coach was suspended for five games for using a banned substance to try to treat a personal problem, but a three-time Super Bowl-winning head coach must only cough up a fine for a blatant violation of league rules.
Cowboys owner/general manager Jerry Jones wisely wants no part of the campaign or the controversy. He played dumb when asked about T.O.'s post-touchdown show.
"You know, I didn't notice it that much," Jones said. "What'd he do?"
Jerry, you'll have to review the tape.
Roger Goodell's investigation of Bill Belichick only starting
BY HANK GOLA
DAILY NEWS SPORTS WRITER
Monday, September 17th 2007, 4:00 AM
FOXBORO - Bill Belichick desperately wants to put SpyGate behind him, but commissioner Roger Goodell's investigation may only be starting.
As Patriots fans were giving Belichick a rousing standing ovation before last night's game against the Chargers last night, NBC reported the Jets probably will ask the NFL to look into the Patriots' use of unauthorized radio frequencies. There have been reports the Patriots were wiring their defensive players' helmets to pick up the quarterback's audibles, a practice that could be especially beneficial against no-huddle offenses such as the one the Jets were using.
In an interview on NBC's pregame show, Goodell said the league will monitor "all 32 clubs, Patriots included.
"We've heard a lot of rumors about things that have been done, either with audio, player-coach communication," he said.
Reports also surfaced that Goodell had ordered the Patriots to turn over all videotape and materials related to the team's stealing of opposing coaches' sideline signals. Goodell, who fined Belichick $500,000 and docked the Patriots conditional draft picks, would impose further sanctions on the team if it does not comply or if it copies the tapes and files in question. Goodell also told NBC that there could be more penalties for the Pats if he gets information that is not consistent with the information he already has.
According to league spokesman Greg Aiello, this is not a new development but just part of Goodell's promise to review and monitor the team's videotaping procedures. It will also ensure that the Patriots cannot use the information they accumulated against future opponents. That was the crux of Belichick's argument - that his "interpretation" of the rule meant he could not apply the video data on that particular day.
In the days before he was hit by the commissioner with a $500,000 fine, Belichick had agreed to a contract extension that would keep him in New England through the 2013 season. There had been speculation that Belichick's contract would expire after this season, when the coach is reportedly making $4.2 million. Estimates are the new deal will pay him anywhere between $6 million and $8 million annually. None of those numbers have been divulged by the Patriots.
The turbulent week for New England included criticism from Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson.
"I think the Patriots live by the saying, 'If you're not cheating, you're not trying,'" said Tomlinson.
That opinion was echoed in locker rooms around the league, particularly those who had lost big games to the Pats over the years.
It seemed as if Belichick had created the very thing he abhors, a distraction. And this one doesn't look as though it's going away.
-----------------------
And TO's TD celebration mocks spygate. The players have a good point on why Wilson gets suspended (and loses salary because of) for treating a personal problem but Belicheat gets no suspension for blatantly violating league rules. And it's not like Wilson's steroid use is going to make him a better player - he's been retired since 1997!
Tim MacMahon's In the Know
T.O. takes a shot at Belichick, Patriots
10:51 PM CDT on Sunday, September 16, 2007
MIAMI – Leave it to Terrell Owens to publicly poke at the NFL's touchiest subject.
Wade Phillips wasn't happy about the penalty flag that followed, but T.O.'s touchdown celebration was a cinematic classic. Two thumbs up for timing, creativity and comedic value after he pretended to take a video camera out of the goal post and faux filmed for a few seconds. The popcorn flying from Cowboys fans in the stands was a fitting touch, too.
The celebration, of course, was a not-so-subtle shot at the Spygate controversy that unfolded this week with the Patriots. T.O. delivered the knockout punch on commissioner Roger Goodell and the non-suspended New England coach now known as "Bill Belicheat" during his postgame press conference.
"I hope they don't give me a hefty fine like they gave Belichick," T.O. deadpanned.
Consider that a shot fired from the "Free Wade Wilson" campaign. Several Cowboys have wondered why an assistant coach was suspended for five games for using a banned substance to try to treat a personal problem, but a three-time Super Bowl-winning head coach must only cough up a fine for a blatant violation of league rules.
Cowboys owner/general manager Jerry Jones wisely wants no part of the campaign or the controversy. He played dumb when asked about T.O.'s post-touchdown show.
"You know, I didn't notice it that much," Jones said. "What'd he do?"
Jerry, you'll have to review the tape.
Another week, another loss.....
When will Marv Levy and Raplh Wilson realize JP Losman isn't an NFL QB?? Probably around the same time they realize that one pair of Depends won't last a lifetime......
When will Marv Levy and Raplh Wilson realize JP Losman isn't an NFL QB?? Probably around the same time they realize that one pair of Depends won't last a lifetime......
How long before Chicago signs Drew Bledsoe?
I don't understand why they don't put Griese in....
Washington with a 20-12 win over the Eagles.
Desert Eagle's Week 2 Power Rankings
1) Indianapolis Colts: Defending champs still looking good for a repeat. A huge home win over the saints was followed up by a win over the tenacious Titans. Run defense has improved and with Manning, Addai, Wayne and Harrison they still have the most explosive offense in the league.
2) New England blockbusters: On the field NE have been spectacular. Outclassed the Chargers and with Randy Moss looking back to his best and a defense that is still stingy as ever, another deep play-off run beckons.
3) Dallas Cowboys: With an injury plagued D the Cowboys offense has carried this team to two impressive wins. Tony romo seems to have put that botched FG attempt behind him and T.O. is enjoying himself. When Wade Philips who is a defensive minded coach gets all his defensive pawns back this team could be scary good.
4) Pittsburgh Steelers: Big Ben is back. After a poor 2006/2007 season, the Steelers have returned to form. Cleveland and Buffalo might be easy pickings for most teams but the Mike Tomlin era is off to a good start.
5) San Diego Chargers: A good opening win over Chicago was followed up by a thrashing in New England. Philip Rivers has looked shaky and isn't protecting the ball as well as he did last year. The Chargers still have the personnel to cope with any team in the league but will have to improve if they are going to challenge the AFC elite. A week three meeting with the undefeated Packers should be enlightening.
6) Chicago Bears : Rex Grossman had another day to forget and he will need to find some formif the Bears are going to return to the Superbowl. the defense is still solid as ever and Cedric Benson has been keeping the chains moving for the offense.
7) Baltimore Ravens: Kyle Boller had a great game and the Ravens put their turnover troubles against Cincinnatti behind them. If this team can stay healthy they will be contenders come January.
8) Denver Broncos: Behind the triumvirate of Cutler,Henry and Walker the Broncos offense has been solid. A win over the plucky Raiders wasn't too impressive but the tenacity shown by the players was. TheJaguars are next and if the Bronco's can win there a divison title will not be a stretch.
9) Green Bay Packers: Brett Favre is playing like he's 28 and the cheeseheads have started 2-0. I might be ranking them too high epecially since they play the Chrgers in Week 3 but for becoming the winningest Qb in league history a spot in the top 10 for Favre.
10) San Fransisco 49ers: Two games against division rivals and two wins for Alex Smith's team. Their defense that was shocking last year has been improved by the addition of Nate Clements and rookie Patrick Willis. A tough game in week 3 against the Steelers beckons but a win might there would make the rest of the league sit up and take notice.
This is taking a bit longer than expected, I'll do the rest later today.
1) Indianapolis Colts: Defending champs still looking good for a repeat. A huge home win over the saints was followed up by a win over the tenacious Titans. Run defense has improved and with Manning, Addai, Wayne and Harrison they still have the most explosive offense in the league.
2) New England blockbusters: On the field NE have been spectacular. Outclassed the Chargers and with Randy Moss looking back to his best and a defense that is still stingy as ever, another deep play-off run beckons.
3) Dallas Cowboys: With an injury plagued D the Cowboys offense has carried this team to two impressive wins. Tony romo seems to have put that botched FG attempt behind him and T.O. is enjoying himself. When Wade Philips who is a defensive minded coach gets all his defensive pawns back this team could be scary good.
4) Pittsburgh Steelers: Big Ben is back. After a poor 2006/2007 season, the Steelers have returned to form. Cleveland and Buffalo might be easy pickings for most teams but the Mike Tomlin era is off to a good start.
5) San Diego Chargers: A good opening win over Chicago was followed up by a thrashing in New England. Philip Rivers has looked shaky and isn't protecting the ball as well as he did last year. The Chargers still have the personnel to cope with any team in the league but will have to improve if they are going to challenge the AFC elite. A week three meeting with the undefeated Packers should be enlightening.
6) Chicago Bears : Rex Grossman had another day to forget and he will need to find some formif the Bears are going to return to the Superbowl. the defense is still solid as ever and Cedric Benson has been keeping the chains moving for the offense.
7) Baltimore Ravens: Kyle Boller had a great game and the Ravens put their turnover troubles against Cincinnatti behind them. If this team can stay healthy they will be contenders come January.
8) Denver Broncos: Behind the triumvirate of Cutler,Henry and Walker the Broncos offense has been solid. A win over the plucky Raiders wasn't too impressive but the tenacity shown by the players was. TheJaguars are next and if the Bronco's can win there a divison title will not be a stretch.
9) Green Bay Packers: Brett Favre is playing like he's 28 and the cheeseheads have started 2-0. I might be ranking them too high epecially since they play the Chrgers in Week 3 but for becoming the winningest Qb in league history a spot in the top 10 for Favre.
10) San Fransisco 49ers: Two games against division rivals and two wins for Alex Smith's team. Their defense that was shocking last year has been improved by the addition of Nate Clements and rookie Patrick Willis. A tough game in week 3 against the Steelers beckons but a win might there would make the rest of the league sit up and take notice.
This is taking a bit longer than expected, I'll do the rest later today.
McNabb was getting booed heavily during the Eagles game, and he seemed to be uncomfortable on that knee. His throws had a real tendency to go high, as if he was not planting his back foot properly.
I wonder how long he'll stay now. I wouldn't be surprised to see him leave in the summer. They're 1-6 in his last 7 games, they were 5-1 with Garcia (who is no superhero). They looked staggeringly toothless.
If I were Andy Reid and the Eagles I'd be worried. McNabb is off, they've just coughed up a vital home divisional game and now share the bottom of their division with the Giants already sitting two games back in two weeks.
McNabb needs to show more of what he showed when they went no-huddle in the fourth quarter, because if he plays like he did in the first three quarters tonight, this is not a playoff team much less a contender.
I was very impressed with the young Redskins quarterback. A future star in the making? On your seventh start to be that composed and to run the offense so well is very impressive.
I wonder how long he'll stay now. I wouldn't be surprised to see him leave in the summer. They're 1-6 in his last 7 games, they were 5-1 with Garcia (who is no superhero). They looked staggeringly toothless.
If I were Andy Reid and the Eagles I'd be worried. McNabb is off, they've just coughed up a vital home divisional game and now share the bottom of their division with the Giants already sitting two games back in two weeks.
McNabb needs to show more of what he showed when they went no-huddle in the fourth quarter, because if he plays like he did in the first three quarters tonight, this is not a playoff team much less a contender.
I was very impressed with the young Redskins quarterback. A future star in the making? On your seventh start to be that composed and to run the offense so well is very impressive.
No way the Broncos are 8th. It took them a last second field goal to beat my lowly Bills.
and the same to beat the Raiders but they have piled up a NFL high 911 yards. They have Travis Henry who has a league leading 267 yards.
While bedding in a 13 new starters combined on offense and Defense 2-0 is pretty impressive.
They have no ability in the redzone. None. You can move the ball up and down the field all you want but if you can't put it in the endzone, then you won't be successful. And beating possibly the 2 worst teams in the NFL, by a combined 4 points, surely can't put you in the top 10.
Its my list and I'll put who I like on it!!!
All joking aside though you do raise good points. They have only had 3 tds in two games which poor by any standards and especially so when you played Buffalo and Oakland. Istill think they will get better though. the other teams I had considered were Houston,Detroit,Washington and Seattle.
Its my list and I'll put who I like on it!!!
All joking aside though you do raise good points. They have only had 3 tds in two games which poor by any standards and especially so when you played Buffalo and Oakland. Istill think they will get better though. the other teams I had considered were Houston,Detroit,Washington and Seattle.
No doubt they will get better, just not top ten material yet. Tennesee, although they lost, looked real good against Indy. They would be up there as well.
Good call Marcello. Tank just signed with the Girls.
2 year contract worth the minimum this season and next (this season is half the miminum due to proration for 8 games missed). Jerry has a good track record with retreads. Terry Glenn, Alonzo Spellman, Terrell Owens, Dimitrious Underwood (he was doing good until he tore up his knee), Marc Colombo to name a few.
Lets hope him and T.O. get arrested soon.
Our first loss of the season. Pittsburgh were very good and at Heinz field they haven't given up 100 yard rushing game for 7 years I think. With so much of our game dependent on Gore the loss wasn't that suprising.
looks like my packers are dominating. We are looking really good right now, big win against chargers.
How 'bout dem Cowboys? Kicked the shit out of Chicago. Lead the NFL in points scored with 116 (almost 39 per game). They look unstoppable on offense right now. And the D is starting to gel. Watch out. Easily the best team in the NFC right now and arguably #1 overall (though no doubt the NE sympathizers and ABDs will say otherwise).
Colts,NE and Pittsburgh are all on the same level if not slightly ahead. But I was impressed though with a decent Qb chicago could have won. Griese should start in week 4. Wait for my midweek rankings to see if Dallas make it to number 1
Colts,NE and Pittsburgh are all on the same level if not slightly ahead. But I was impressed though with a decent Qb chicago could have won. Griese should start in week 4. Wait for my midweek rankings to see if Dallas make it to number 1
Uh huh. Of course they are.
Uh huh. Of course they are.
Yes clearly the Cowboys are way superior to those teams. how could I have thought otherwise.Cowboys... nah...
Colts.... no way...
Pats.... nada...
Steelers.... nope...
Bills.... Of course.....
Ok, Ok, my fantasy is over. You can now return to your normal football discussion....
Colts.... no way...
Pats.... nada...
Steelers.... nope...
Bills.... Of course.....
Ok, Ok, my fantasy is over. You can now return to your normal football discussion....
DE, Grossman is terrible. But not sure how a better QB makes up a 24 point gap. That's like saying if Buffalo had a better QB they could have beaten NE.
What??? Of course the Bills could have.... Well at least if the QB was Jim Kelly and it was 1991, then we would have definitely beaten the Pats....