Apparently the newest tool in communication and branding is to create an application or app for a smart phone. While iPhones are one of the more popular types, there are many other  smart phones as well. Even Rick Domieier of QVC has an app, or at least that’s what he said while selling tools and other housewares last night (ok,ok, so it was not one of my more interesting nights).

This post isn’t about phones though, but rather about an article I ran across the other day that is an excellent lesson in personal branding. It seems that Chad Ochocinco (formerly Chad Johnson) of the Cincinatti Bengals now has an app, the Ochocinco Experience,  that allows fans to follow his every move, get advice or listen to the same music.

While the story talks about how some of the content is similar to his website, the fact that this latest product ties together a website, twitter feed and exclusive content is a model for how a brand can exist and support itself with multiple types of online content.

The website itself is a fairly good example of the intergration of new technology. There is video which is sometimes streamed live, and a number that allows people to call in and ask questions. There is also a news feed with football news pertaining to the Bengals and a store featuring branded tshirts and other items related to the player. Even if the app isn’t bought, word of it generates conversation and helps to keep the brand fresh in the minds of people. Of course, with stunts like attempting to “bribe” an official during a game, someone like Ochocinco is never that far out of the limelight anyway.

The Indianapolis professional football team continues to have Baltimore’s number.  On a day when the Ravens played their hearts out the fans got their heart’s ripped out.  How sick are Ravens fans of losing close games to good teams?

It’s an old football cliché, but when you settle for field goals, especially off turnovers, you set yourself up for failure.  The Ravens’ defense forced Peyton Manning and Indy’s offense into three turnovers, but only had six points to show for their efforts.  Toss in a fourth quarter Indy goal line stand and a Joe Flacco INT and you have a recipe for disaster. 

This game was so crucial for the Ravens who saw the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinatti Bengals unexpectedly fall to weak AFC West opponents. The Ravens had a prime opportunity to knockoff unbeaten Indy, improve their record to six and four, and stay atop the wildcard pack.  Instead the theme of the day was blown opportunity. 

The offense was able to move the ball fairly well against an injury bitten Indy defense, but couldn’t seal the deal with touchdowns.  Cam Cameron committed to running the ball with 31 attempts, but the o-line weren’t able to blow the undersized defenders back at the point of contact.  This marks the fourth straight week the Ravens rush the ball for less than a four yards per carry average.  Rice is a hell of a player, but we need that big bruising back to run in-between the tackles.  That person used to be LeRon McClain, but McClain has been underutilized as a tailback this season.  Frankly, I’m not quite sure McClain has the quickness needed to be a dominant tailback in the NFL

Another factor contributing to the Ravens lack of offensive production is the fact that our wide receivers get little to no separation.  I realize that Derrick Mason had a huge day, but many of his catches came under duress.  Outside of Mason the Ravens wide receivers had a total of two catches for 18 yards.  Bottom line, this offense would be a force if Flacco had a big fast option opposite Mason.  There’s no white knight receiver available to the Ravens at this point, so let’s continue this conversation in April.

Billy Cundiff looked to be a just what the Ravens needed, but instead of  turning in a five-for-five Matt Stover-like performance, he missed a chip shot that would have been the difference in the game.  I’m not blaming the loss on Cundiff though, because the Ravens’ offense left so many points on the field. 

In all honesty the season’s not over, but if we lose to Pittsburgh next week it will be.  Perhaps Harbaugh can get his first victory against the Roethlisberger-less Steelers.   

~ Pat Cary

P.S. Can someone on the Ravens’ coaching staff please tell Ed Reed that he is no longer allowed to lateral the ball on returns of any kind.  I realize that the Ravens would have had the ball on their own 41 yard line with about 17 seconds left on the clock, but at least they would have had a chance.

I meant to do this ranking prior to Week 9, since that’s the unofficial midway point of the season, but I got caught up in the resurgence of Carolina football (two top 25 teams in two weeks!!)

Without further ado:  

New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts

“We poppin like Champagne Bottles, but we never shook”

-Lil’ Wayne “Money 2 Blow” Remix 

That has to be the theme in New Orleans and Indianapolis as the Saints finally have a defense to go with their prolific offense and the Colts still have Peyton Manning.  As the last two undefeated teams in football, there really is nothing that worries these teams, especially the Colts who disposed of their chief rival on Sunday Night.  Stay tuned as both have tough match-ups coming up.  Colts in the ultimate grudge match (I think they may have played in Baltimore at some point…) and Saints (The Patriots come to town soon).

New England Patriots, San Diego Chargers, and Minnesota Vikings

“Don’t think I don’t think about it”

-Darius Rucker “Don’t think I don’t think about it”

Each team has to have certain moments from the season on their mind.  The Patriots are one foot away (on a fourth down conversion against the Colts) from knocking off the AFC’s top team and putting distance between them and a middling division.  The Chargers are one sensational fourth down play (see: Lewis, Ray vs. Sproles, Darren) away from challenging for the AFC’s top spots.  The Vikings are one mishandled Chester Taylor pass away from perfection.  Though, each team is playing at a high level, which helps to quell those “what if’s”.  On a sidenote:  Props to Darius Rucker, Country newcomer of the year.

Cincinatti Bengals

“I’ll step on your porch, step to your boss/Let’s end the speculation, I’m talking to all you.”

-Jay-Z “Ain’t no Love (Heart of the City”)

Marvin Lewis has the Queen City Team playing like a bunch of bullies.  The Bengals are wearing the “Me against the world” title better than anyone this side of Tupac and the mid-90s Knicks.  Punishing defense, crushing run game (even more now that they’ve signed Larry “I didn’t mean to insult homosexuals, just Todd Haley” Johnson)… Still.  I don’t believe in them.  That “Hard Knocks” series before the season revealed something (not as much as I thought as I made constant “So this is what a 4-12 team looks like” remarks), but something.  I’m not ready to put them up in the second tier division, yet.  I know they swept the Ravens and Steelers, but still… there’s something still lacking.

Denver Broncos, Pittsburgh Steelers, Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and Atlanta Falcons

“Woe is me, baby, this is tragic/ ‘Cause we had it, we was magic/ I was flyin’, now I’m crashin’”

-Kanye West “Knock you Down”

Each of these teams went from being sky high to well, not.  The Broncos started the season media darlings before being brought back to earth by the Ravens and Steelers in consecutive weeks, understandable.  However, the inexcusable thrashing they suffered at the hands of the Washington Clinton Portis’ was baffling.  The Steelers, more understandably, were swept by the Bengals.  The Cowboys were upended by the Brokeback Packers (not a gay diss, just an Aaron Rodgers diss… He looks like Jake Gyllenhal) who haven’t been able to win many games (only three out of their last ten!!).  The Eagles suffered back-to-back losses that weren’t very close.  The Falcons just lost to the Panthers…

Needless to say, each of these teams needs to regroup, much like Kanye in this whole post-award show backlash.

New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, and Baltimore Ravens

 “Reasons, like seasons, they constantly change and the seasons of last year, like reasons, have faded away.”

-Something Corporate “Me and the Moon”

The success of last season has (mostly) been missing for these teams.  All of them have struggled with the pre-season expectations and (more likely) their adjusted schedules.  The Giants raced out fast only to quickly be in search of answers losing four of their last five.  The Dolphins have introduced a lot of new wrinkles to their wildcat formation without the electric success from last year.  The Ravens have lost four games by an average of 5.3 points, the close games they thrived on finding ways to win last year.  Just like the tier above and below these teams, they need to find a way to right the ship or the next season (off-season) could be filled with many, discontenting reasons.

New York Jets, Tennessee Titans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Chicago Bears, Arizona Cardinals, and San Francisco 49ers

“But heaven ain’t close in a place like this/Anything goes but don’t blink you might miss.”

-The Killers “Somebody Told Me”

What a grab bag of teams here… Each team has been great and awful this year (as has everyone else); however, these teams tend to be less “killers” than anything else.  Though, as with every season, each team still has a glimmer of hope to redeem what’s left, but, if they blink, they’ll miss.  Can Mark Sanchize pull a Matt Ryan/Joe Flacco and get his entourage to the play-offs?  Can Vince Young keep up his magic (3-0 since he became the starter)?  Can Maurice Jones-Drew carry the whole team every week?  Will Jay Cutler continue to try his hardest to submarine the play-off chances of the Bears?  Does anyone want to win the NFC West!?!?!?!  By week 12, we will know all of these answers and more.

Carolina Panthers, Green Bay Packers, and Houston Texans

“Maybe, in the future, you’re gonna come back, you’re gonna come back to me.”

-Ingrid Michaelson “Maybe”

This is surely what the QBs of these three teams are saying in terms of their fan support.  Donnie Darko-Rodgers caught a break with a win over Tony “It must be getting cold outside because I’m losing games I should win” Romo and the Cowboys, but Green Bay won’t forget he’s not Favre (especially with the Vikings having swept the Packers already this season).  Poor Jake of the man, Steve Smith and the Charlotte fans are done with him.  It’s official.  They’re now, firmly, in the Sam Bradford/Troy Smith Sweepstakes.  As for Houston, all the passing yards look nice, Matt Schaub, but win a game of importance or stay healthy for a whole season.  Either one would be nice at this point.

Washington Redskins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Seattle Seahawks

“I know that it’s coming, I just hope that I’m alive for it.”

-Drake “Successful”

Yes, this entry needed a follow-up lyric to the first installment.  That’s really all there is to say about these teams.  Poor Clinton Portis and Jason Campbell… I would say I’m surprised by Josh Johnson play except that I’m more surprised by how well Josh Freeman has played.  He’s been consistent and stepped up when he needs to most… the two things he embarrassingly lacked at K-State.  The Ron Prince Era looks better and better.  Oh, and Matt Hasselback was washed up two seasons ago.  I’m frantically searching for evidence to the contrary.

Buffalo Bills, Detroit Lions, and Oakland Raiders

“See potential in ya, let me mould that/I can transform ya, I can transform ya.”

-Chris Brown “I can Transform Ya”

This one goes out to the young Bills (Marshawn Lynch, Fred Jackson, and Roscoe Parrish), young Lions (Matt Stafford, Calvin Johnson, and Kevin Smith), and young Raiders (Darren McFadden, Michael Bush, Louis Murphy, and JaMarcus Russell… Well, maybe not Russell).  Better times are coming guys.  Whether that means you get traded to well-managed franchises or you’re indentured until you hit free agency, hope is out there.  Or your GM could talk himself into Tebow being the Spread QB to break the trend and you get to chase after his wobbly ducks all next season.  It could really go either way at this point.

St. Louis Rams and Kansas City Chiefs

“It never stops, when my mama ask me will I change/ I tell her yeah, but it’s clear I’ll always be the same.”

-Tupac “Until the End of Time”

It feels like the Rams and Chiefs will continue to be horrible until the end of time.  The Rams can’t find anyone to buy them and will probably end up moving back to LA where they weren’t really liked in the first place.  If they were smart, they’d change their name in transit.  Maybe fool the West Coast into thinking they were someone else for a few years.  Steven Jackson is football’s version of Zach Greinke.  The Chiefs are a mess and I blame Todd Haley.  One person hasn’t ruined a team this badly since Toni Braxton was making her rounds in Dallas.  How do you alienate a future hall of famer (Tony Gonzales), a perennial pro bowl running back (Well, Larry Johnson has his own demons and would’ve self-destructed eventually… but Haley hurried the process), and a rising star wide receiver (Dwayne Bowe, too, is a moron, but at least he doesn’t post moronic Twitter updates and inspire a whole city to petition him out of town)?  Herm Edwards and Carl Petersen just keep smiling wider and brighter each week on their respective television appearances.

Cleveland Browns

“We see the sun about three times a year!”

-Hastily made Cleveland Tourism Video

This is, roughly, the same number of wins Browns fans can expect in any given season… And now they want to use Lebron in football games!?!?!  Whose idea was it to bring football back here, again? 

Analysis of Week 10 in the NFL

Game Notes

Bears 6 49ers 10

It was a sloppy game by both teams, and the only highlights on Friday were of Jay Cutler’s five interceptions. You just can’t win a game like that. San Francisco didn’t have to play exceptionally well, but Alex Smith limited his mistakes, Michael Crabtree had another decent game, and Frank Gore took time off of the clock so the Bears couldn’t come back. It wasn’t pretty, but it could be just what the Niners need.
Game Ball: Frank Gore had 25 carries for 104 yards and one touchdown.

Bills 17 Titans 41

For those of you who are keeping track, Vince Young is 3-0 since taking the reigns in Tennessee. The Titans look rejuvenated, but this game was close until a 24 point quarter. Young wasn’t perfect, he had one touchdown and one interception, but compared to Trent Edwards and Ryan Fitzpatrick, he looked like an All-star. Nate Washington and Kenny Britt are getting their reps, but Chris Johnson is the X factor on this team. Terrell Owens had three catches for 85 yards, so we will have to go one more week without a breakdown.
Game Ball: Chris Johnson went for 122 yards and two touchdowns on the ground, and had another 100 yards as a receiver.

Saints 28 Rams 23

Can they lose? The Saints did everything wrong Sunday and still came away with the win. That’s not taking anything away from St. Louis, they took advantage of New Orleans’ mistakes and Mark Bulger outplayed Drew Brees (yes, it happened). Steven Jackson ran over 130 yards and their receiving core averaged over ten yards per catch. Special teams and Reggie Bush sealed the deal for the Saints, but it’s clear they will need to tighten up before they think about finishing the season undefeated.
Game Ball: Reggie Bush had six carried for 83 yards and one touchdown.

Buccaneers 23 Dolphins 25

The Bucs learned the hard way Sunday that they can’t dig a huge hole, and then attempt to come back. The game was tight, especially after an injury to Ronnie Brown, but even a rally towards the end left Tampa Bay two points short. They did a good job against Miami’s deadly run, but we don’t think anyone can  completely control them. Buc fans can’t be too mad about this one – there is a lot of potential on this team and Josh Freeman shows promise.
Game Ball: Kellen Winslow had seven carries for 102 yards

Lions 10 Vikings 27

We knew the Vikings would win this, but their efficiency is incredible, especially coming off of a bye week. Brett Favre shows no signs of slowing down, and he managed this game without making a single mistake. Adrian Peterson controlled the running game, and looked dominant again after running for 133 yards. Most teams come off of the bye week rusty, but Minnesota looks rested and rejuvenated. Detroit isn’t trying to win a Super Bowl, but they need to have a game plan and gain some composure. Although Matthew Stafford didn’t throw an interception, he threw 51 passes to nine different receivers with little results.
Game Ball: Sidney Rice had only nine catches, but went 201 yards with them

Jaguars 24 Jets 22

The Jets continue to look confused and disorganized. Can they fix it? They may still have the second place trophy in the NFC East if they pull it together, but at this point their second meeting with New England is a daunting task. Mark Sanchez is regressing with each game – that young fire-thrower is becoming a problem and turning the ball over quite a lot these days. Jacksonville, on the other hand, seems to be just waking up. Quarterback David Gerrard had another promising start, and they are creeping into contention.
Game Ball: Maurice Jones-Drew went 123 yards on 24 carries with one touchdown.

Bengals 18 Steelers 12

Cincinnati is the real deal, and they’ve proved that by matching up pound for pound with the defending champs. It was scrappy, and a clinic on how to play defense, but does it matter? Neither quarterback was spectacular, and there was little to no running game on Sunday, but 60 minutes and eight field goals later, the Bengals came out on top. The stats are horrible, but that just shows you the fight.
Game Ball; Jon Fanene and the Bengals defensive line were ravenous. Fanene had two sacks on the day, two tackles for loss, and got to Ben Roethisberger twice more in the backfield.

Broncos 17 Redskins 27

Uh… excuse me? Denver is sinking lower each week, but they came out uninspired. You can blame part of the loss on losing Kyle Orton, who was playing very well, and on Chris Sims complete lack of preparation. Let’s not take anything away from Washington. They did everything they could possibly do to win on Sunday, including gadget plays, to win. They were missing their star and on the ropes, but they got it done against a team that should have played a lot better than them.
Game Ball: Ladell Betts didn’t have over 10 yards for the first eight weeks, but replaced Clinton Portis in style with 144 yards and one touchdown.

Falcons 19 Panthers 28

Someone must have pulled Jake Delhomme aside and told him that his career was on the line, because in the last two weeks, he’s been playing inspired football. In his second interception-less game, Carolina looked powerful, but let’s be honest – Michael Turner had 111 yards on only nine carries in the second quarter, and his injury left the Falcons without an attack. Matt Ryan’s dismal day combined with losing Turner was a nightmare for Atlanta. The Panthers’ defense wasn’t nearly as menacing as it usually is, but they are creeping towards .500 and may become dangerous in the weeks to come.
Game Ball: Muhsin Muhammad had only six catches for 91 yards, but Steve Smith was deadly in the end zone (two of his four catches were for touchdowns).

Chiefs 16 Raiders 10

This will go down in history as the game that no one watched. All three quarterbacks were simply horrible, there was no defense… what is there to say? This is about what you would expect from a bunch of 2-7 teams. We do wonder, however, how much longer the Raiders are going to pretend JaMarcus Russell is their man, especially now that he is only playing a half of a game.
Game Ball: Michael Bush had 14 carries for 119 yards.

Cowboys 7 Packers 17

As long as the Cowboys aren’t on the big stage, they seem to be fine. But as soon as people pay attention, as soon as playoff whispers come, they drop like flies. Tony Romo was shaky for the first time in weeks,  and his receivers suffered for it. The big story this week is the completely inconsistent Packers, who’s defense completely shut down any chance Dallas had at winning this game. Their running game was held to 61 yards, Miles Austin was shut down, and Romo was sacked five times. Aaron Rodgers just needed to control the game, and he did a fantastic job alongside Ryan Grant who had 79 yards on the day.
Game Ball: Aaron Rodgers didn’t throw an interception, but the important part is his rushing touchdown, as well as going 25 for 36 with a passing touchdown.

Seahawks 20 Cardinals 31

This was billed as the battle for the NFC West, but did Seattle really have a chance? Arizona may be inconsistent, but Seattle can beat them at their own game. Matt Hasselbeck attempted 52 passes on the day, so it’s no wonder he was picked off twice. Kurt Warner, on the other hand, had another one of his great weeks, but there really is no telling what Kurt Warner will take the field each day. The Cardinals had great games from Anquan Boldin and Beanie Wells, so their balanced attack could beat out the Seahawks any day.
Game Ball: Kurt Warner went 29 for 38 with 340 yards and two touchdowns.

Eagles 23 Chargers 31

In Philadelphia and on most major networks, there was one key for the Eagles to win this game. Run the ball. Did they do it? No. Did they win? No. The Chargers are quietly becoming a force to be reckoned with – you would never know they were 6-3 at this point. They ran up and down the field on Philly, and it was nice to see LaDainian Tomlinson show everyone that he still has some jets on him. The Eagles and their “incredible” defense couldn’t stop Philip Rivers or Antonio Gates, or even Darren Sproles for that matter. There are so many problems we would need a year to list them, but after Donovan McNabb threw for 450 yards and still couldn’t win the game, we think Philadelphia is already aware
Game Ball: Tomlinson couldn’t break 100 yards, but his 96 yards and two touchdowns were more than enough to help San Diego out.

Patriots 34 Colts 35

It’s safe to say, this one lived up to the hype. This will go down as one of the greatest games between Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, and of course, one of the biggest mistakes Bill Belichick has made. You know what happened, but we definitely think Belichick was right (oh God that hurts to say). If they get that first down, the game was over. Either way, he knew Peyton Manning would win the game and that was his only chance to take control. It back fired, so there is a media outcry, but we get his point. It’s safe to say that Peyton Manning and the Colts are on top of the world now. This was one of the biggest tests of their season, and they passed with flying colors.
Game Ball: It was dueling receivers in Indianapolis Sunday night. Randy Moss had nine catches for 179 yards and two touchdowns, while Reggie Wayne had ten catches for 126 yards and two touchdowns.

Baltimore 16 Cleveland 0

Can you say BORING? Baltimore didn’t beat the Browns up enough, so the game was completely pointless. Monday Night Football’s track record of great games this season ended tonight. We don’t think it matters who is playing for the Browns, their attitude and training is too far beyond anything. There are teams who are just as bad in the NFL, but you can tell they are trying, and that’s the point. The Ravens couldnt get much going either. At least they got the win when they needed to, because their schedule does not get any easier.
Game Ball: Derek Mason had three catches for 78 yards.

Week 10 Wrap Up

- Injuries: Cincinnati’s Cedric Benson went out of their game against Pittsburgh with a hip flexor strain. Depending on how he feels in practice, Benson could miss next week… Troy Polamalu tweeked his knee again against Cincinnati. He will undergo tests and isn’t expected to be out long…Towards the end of the Eagles loss to the Chargers, Brian Westbrook sustained yet another concussion. This will be his second concussion in a month. The Eagles will evaluate him, but expect Westbrook to miss at the very least two weeks. Many commentators speculate this could be the end of Westbrook’s career…Seahawks running back Julius Jones sustained a bruised lung midway through the first quarter Sunday. He is expected to be out two to three weeks…Wildcat man Ronnie Brown is on crutches after hurting his right foot. The Dolphins will not releasae the extent of his injury, but experts expect he will miss at least next weekend… Denver is staying quiet on the severity of quarterback Kyle Orton’s ankle. He will undergo tests throughout the week, but may miss up to two games.
- Tennessee owner Bud Adams was so happy his team had won three in a row that he decided to give the finger to everyone in the stadium. On both hands. And he did a dance. His fine? $250,000 and his dignity.
- ESPN reported that troubled running back Larry Johnson may be headed to Cincinnati. The Bengals are in need of a quality backup for Cedric Benson, and have a goos track record with healing troublemakers.
- The NFLPA’s investigation into Eric Mangini and the Browns has become more serious, with the NFLPA asking for a meeting with the Head Coach. Mangini is under fire for his team’s many injuries, as well as his reported outlandish fines.

And the UDU Game Ball Goes to…

We are going to give this one to ever participant in this week’s Sunday Night Football game. While the ending was controversial, this was probably the most exciting game of the season. Both teams put up over 30 points, but the defense was also on their game. Tom Brady and Peyton Manning were battling all night, and they really ended up on par with each other. There isn’t anything better than watching two of the best teams in the NFL battle, especially when the mistakes are limited and the energy is high.

I certainly thought it might take teams a little longer to pick up Larry Johnson, but if I had to guess which team would be the first to take a swipe at him it would have been the Bengal’s. It really isn’t surprising since their back on top running back Cedric Benson was injured on Sunday against the Steelers. He is supposedly en route to the Cincy right now. He is also expected to sign sometime today barring any breakdowns in talks. So, to be clear, as long as Larry doesn’t open his mouth he should be a Bengal by sunset. I would tell him to stay away from Twitter and any other means of speaking his mind as it hasn’t helped much in the past. The Bengals have said that Benson will be able to go this Sunday when they play the NFL’s version of a high school team in the Oakland Raiders. If they can add Johnson to the roster they might as well let Ced rest this week…hell, they might as well rest all the starters this week.

Head to Pro Football Talk for the full story and latest coverage.

On his Twitter account this morning, Chad Ochocinco tweeted to ESPN’s Adam Schefter that if he didn’t score against the Steelers today, he would take Schefter on a shopping spree and buy him suits for the whole season.

To his credit, Schefter just tweeted that he wants the suits to go to http://www.dressforsuccess.org.

Chad Ochocinco owes Adam Schefter a shopping spree.

Ochocinco hauled in just two passes and failed to find the end zone in the Bengals 18-12 win.

Somehow, we don’t think Ocho will mind buying  clothes for Schefter’s charity for two reasons.

First, the shopping spree is now tax deductible.

Second, the Bengals won the game to take the division lead with a surprising 7-2 record.

By Melva N. Lloyd

Image courtesy of www.nfl.fanhouse.com

Before any team in the NFL made their debut this season the media spotlight was already shining brightly on the entire league; and probably for all the wrong reasons.  After a stint in prison, Michael Vick made his much-anticipated return to the football field, Plaxico Burress gracefully bowed out and Braylon Edwards ticked off the “king”: LeBron James.  Now that the season is well underway, the New Orleans Saints remain undefeated, Rush Limbaugh expressed interest in owning a team and now, Larry Johnson and Chad Ochocinco are making sure that they make headlines before the year is out.

So let’s back up, where do we begin?  Well for starters, everyone’s favorite one-man show Chad Ochocinco is in the news again.  His latest antic? Attempting to bribe a referee during a game against the Baltimore Ravens.  Ochocinco states that he was “only playing” with the official but the higher-ups of the league probably won’t see it that way.  Ochocinco’s Cincinatti Bengals were up 14-3 over the Ravens during the third quarter when the wide receiver caught a 15-yard pass very close to the sideline.  The play was ruled as a catch by the official but the Ravens argued that Ochocinco foot was indeed out-of-bounds.  While the ref reviewed the play, Ochocinco borrowed a dollar bill, that’s right one dollar, from an assistant and jokingly tried to slide the George Washington to the official. 

Image courtesy of www.yahoo.com/nfll/news

Ochocinco smiled through the prank but the referee did not find anything funny.  The attempted bribe ultimately failed and the play was ruled incomplete.  So much for that trick.  You can look at this situation from two views: You can either be disgusted that any athlete would ever stoop that low, or you can find the entire thing hilarious and look forward to another round of Monday Night Football.  I choose to do the latter, it was joke gone awry, let’s all move on.

Around the league, Kansas City Cheifs’ running back, Larry Johnson might have to start looking for a job elsewhere.  After a twitter-induced rant, which included a gay slur, that got Johnson suspended on October 28th, owners of the Chiefs decided that this was the last straw and released him from his $45 million dollar contract. 

Johnson, who was drafted in the first round out of Penn State in 2003, bashed head coach Todd Haley after a 37-7 home loss to the San Diego Chargers.  He used his twitter page as an outlet to express his anger where the three-letter slur was used, after which he tweeted, “Make me regret it.  Lmao.  U don’t stop my checks.  Lmao.  So ‘tweet’ away.”

The former Kansas City Chief has been in trouble before, arrested four times prior to be exact; all for assault charges against women.  In March of this year, Johnson pleaded guilty to two of the charges that took place in 2008 and was placed on two years probation.

Upon Johnson’s release, he was just 75 yards short of setting the all-time rushing record.

Chad Ochocinco is no stranger to news. He usually makes the news with his mouth and his end zone antics.

Recently, he voiced a desire to break the news via his Twitter account. He said he’d deliver actual news about his Bengals and other teams around the league. The idea was to cut out the ESPNs of the world, referring to them simply as “the middle man.”

Chad Ochocinco has yet to deliver anything close to news via the OCNN.

Ochocinco dubbed the initiative the OCNN — The Ochocinco News Network. The idea was creative and, if it’s more than just a publicity stunt, it could work. If nothing else, it could be a one-stop shop for all fantasy leaguers searching for information when planning their weekly line-ups.

Based on the first two weeks, the OCNN is a dud.

The first week, Ochocinco was on a bye. Seemed like the perfect opportunity to use his spare time to make some calls and come up with some “insider” news.

Unless you cared that the man was in New York or Miami, or couldn’t find a plane ticket to Green Bay to watch Favre return to Lambeau on Sunday morning, you were out of luck. The man gave us nothing.

Now, he may have trouble getting news about other teams because coaches and players don’t want to divulge any secrets, especially to an opposing player. Also, if a player divulges information to Ochocinco, a coach may be able to track the source simply by knowing who is friends with No. 85.

Ok, so now we get to week 2 of the OCNN and the Bengals were back to prepping for a game. At the very least, you could expect some breaking news about the surprising first place Bengals who sit at 5-2 entering their game against Ray Lewis, Joe Flacco and the Ravens this Sunday.

We got nothing. Not an injury update. Not a post-practice Tweet. Nothing.

Early Thursday morning, here is what the OCNN delievered:

OCNN breaking news–top of the morning to you all who’ve missed the early 5 am alarm,its not to late to get the worm,even though its biten

A few minutes later, we actually did get some actual NFL talk.

OCNN Topic of the Day–Is Roy Williams argument about being The #1 reciever but #2 Miles Austin is getting all the balls legit?

OCNN–this is one reason why there are rarely two extremely talented recievers on the same team,on ball,one QB=controversy at some point

With Housh and I there was no true #1,there were plays where Carson was comfortable throwing to me n plays he trusted Housh,we were open24/7

The skill level from #1 to #2 doesn’t fall of that much unless you are exceptional gifted so the trust the QB has in you makes you the #1

That was your breaking news football talk this week. And, unless you care about what 85 has to eat the night before the game, or what he wears on his way to the stadium, the OCNN isn’t going to deliver anything.

Welcome to the Ochcocinco News Network -- OCNN.

According to a report on si.com, Chad Ochocinco plans to enter the breaking news foray via twitter.

He plans to launch a social media network; he’s dubbing it the Ochocinco News Network (OCNN). The network will give pro athletes a forum to break news related to their teams.

In theory, this sounds like a decent idea and will likely generate tons of followers in the fantasy football world.

In reality, this has zero chance of working.

First, if an athlete wanted to break news about his or her team, why wouldn’t that person do so via their own Twitter account. An athlete or celebrity who uses Twitter does it to generate a following for future business endeavors. They need fans and Twitter is a way to maintain interest among the general public.

Pro athletes are simply building a brand the way ESPN, SI, Best Buy and others do. While we understand that athletes would still have their own twitter accounts and followers under this plan, the fact is they wold likely want to remain independent and not part of the Ochocinco brand.

As  a result, unless the OCNN is going to mail paychecks to contributors each week, what is the incentive?

Second, players have gotten into trouble for their tweets. Coaches don’t want players disseminating news. Could you imagine if an Eagles player updated an injury on Twitter? Andy Reid would have a stroke. Remember, he chastised the media for calling the team trainer and Stewart Bradley for injury news during the summer.

Ochocinco has amazing creativity. Someday, he will revolutionalize something. We just have to wait to find out what that will be.

Posted: October 23, 2009

Time to make up for a dismal Week 6.  This week, some lesser-owned diamonds in the rough will be viable bye week fill-ins, and a few should even be rostered permanently, as some former graduates from this column have been (Mike Sims-Walker, Rashard Mendenhall, Steve Smith (NYG), etc.).  Here are the Sleepers for Week 7:

QUARTERBACK

Chad Henne vs. New Orleans – Projection: 16-24, 220 yards, 2 TD, 1 Int
In Week 5, Henne threw for 241 yards and 2 TD’s against the 8th ranked Jets’ pass defense, and he’s had 2 weeks to prepare for a New Orleans D that leads the league with 11 interceptions but can be susceptible to the pass (Kevin Kolb, 391 yards Wk. 2).

Shaun Hill @ Houston – Projection: 17-27, 210 yards, 1 TD
Don’t expect massive numbers, but for a bye week QB, you could do worse, especially seeing as though Frank Gore is back and Michael Crabtree is about to add a new weapon to the offense.  And, oh yeah, the Texans only rank 19th against the pass.

RUNNING BACK

Michael Bush vs. New York Jets – Projection: 12-46 rushing, 1-8 receiving, 1 TD
In McFadden’s absence, Bush hasn’t been the go-to-guy, as anticipated.  Justin Fargas had 23 carries last week, but much of it was due to the fact Bush got banged up.  The Jets are 21st against the run, and Bush has a decent chance to get in for 6.

Mike Bell @ Miami – Projection: 9-33 rushing, 1 TD
Bell had 15 carries in Week 6, but most of it was mop-up duty when the Saints had the game in the bag.  Pierre Thomas is the #1 back, but Bell is the goal-line sniper.  Another score is likely, despite the Dolphins‘ stout run defense (3rd in NFL).

Kevin Faulk @ Tampa Bay (In London) – Projection: 5-24 rushing, 4-41 receiving
This week, Laurence Maroney and BenJarvus Green-Ellis are 1-2 in the RB pecking order.  Faulk’s role will expand slightly, and though he probably won’t explode, if desperate, he is a fair flex option play against the second worst run defense in football.

WIDE RECEIVER

Lance Moore @ Miami – Projection: 5-59, 1 TD
Moore hauled in 79 passes in 2008, and last week, finally worked his way back into the offense.  He had 6 catches for 78 yards and a TD, and was targeted 7 times by Drew Brees.  The Saints will keep on throwing, and Moore is a safe bet for a decent day.

Mike Wallace vs. Minnesota – Projection: 3-55, 1 TD
Wallace has caught a mere 2 balls in each of his last 3 games, averaging about 50 yards per game.  He has the ability to break out (7 catches, 102 yards against Cincinatti Wk. 3), and Minnesota’s defense has the tendency to give up big yards in the air.

Mohamed Massoquoi vs. Green Bay – Projection: 6-91
Over the past 3 weeks, the unheralded rookie has averaged 9.67 targets, 4.67 receptions and 82 yards per game.  Green Bay is sure to jump out to a big lead, meaning Cleveland will be forced to throw.  This could be the week Massoquoi finds paydirt.

TIGHT END

Zach Miller vs. New York Jets – Projection: 5-71, 1 TD
Miller was targeted 11 times last week, and has 13 catches for 241 yards and a TD over the last 3 weeks.  The Jets‘ D is solid, and the Raiders‘ O is not.  Still, Miller seems poised to become the most consistent offensive player on his team.

KICKER

Joe Nedney @ Houston – Projection: 3 FG, 2 PAT (1 FG 50+)
Facing the 20th ranked overall defense, the 49ers offense should give their strong-legged kicker ample opportunities in the controlled climate in Houston.

DEFENSE

Carolina Panthers vs. Buffalo – Projection: 17 points allowed, 3 sacks, 1 Int, 1 fumble recovery
This is a bipolar defense (2nd against the pass, 29th against the rush), and though the Bills should run the ball a bunch, their overall lack of a passing game — especially with Ryan Fitzpatrick in there — will allow Carolina to stack the box.

Analysis of Week 6 in the NFL

Game Recaps

Texans 28 Bengals 17

We’ve said from the beginning that Houston could stun the league when they were on, and this week they put it into high gear. Matt Schaub attacked through the air, while Steve Slaton and Andre Johnson aided him. Slaton was the all-purpose player of the day with 19 carrier for 43 yards as well as six catches for 102 yards and a touchdown, while Johnson was up to his old tricks to the tune of eight receptions for 135 yards. When the Texans can keep Cedric Benson to 44 yards, which is something no other team could do so far this season, there’s always a huge chance to win. For Cincinnati, Carson Palmer was inconsistent at best and really needs to work on controlling the tempo of the game before it gets out of hand.
Game Ball: Matt Schaub went 28/40 with 392 yards and four touchdowns.

Lions 0 Packers 26

This was the first game this season that Detroit wasn’t even competitive in, but to be fair injuries played a part. When the leading receiver and starting quarterback aren’t in the game, you will always have an issue. Daunte Culpepper can’t control this team like Matthew Stafford, and the momentum of the team suffers for it. Aaron Rodgers didn’t have an incredible game, but Donald Driver and Ryan Grant made his job a little easier as well. We will look at this as a tune up for Cleveland next week. The Pack will need it, won’t they?
Game Ball: Donald Driver had seven receptions for 107 yards, including a one-handed catch that landed him on highlight reels everywhere.

Ravens 31 Vikings 33

Old vs. New… and Old won. Adrian Peterson ran for his first 100+ yard game since Week 1, and the Vikings withstood a Ravens’ comeback attempt to win by a very narrow margin. What’s more interesting is that Brett Favre did this without his new favorite target, Percy Harvin, who was injured in the first half. Both Favre and Flacco got beat up all day, but they had excellent games (Flacco turned in a career-best passing effort by going 28 for 43 with 385 yards and two touchdowns). It was refreshing to see Jared Allen so upset after a win – when interviewed by ESPN Allen went off saying this was one of the worst defensive fourth quarters he has ever seen – just because sometimes winning wipes away those bad plays. We don’t think it’s necessarily Steve Hauschka’s fault that he missed that field goal – if time had been managed right be may not have had to kick that far.
Game Ball: Brett Favre can’t get it every week, but he was stunningly accurate, going 21 for 29 with 278 yards and three touchdowns.

Giants 27 Saints 48

Maybe it was a little too early to anoint Eli Manning the king of New York, because he certainly didn’t look that way against New Orleans this Sunday. Manning turned in an embarrassing 14 for 31 performance, throwing for only 178 yards and one touchdown. That simply isn’t going to cut it against one of the most explosive teams in football to this point. No one predicted we would be talking solely about New Orleans’ defense, who held the Giants to just 84 rushing yards and eventually took Manning out of the game. At the end of the day, Drew Brees is still the man and every star shined for the Saints.
Game Ball: Marquis Colston caught only eight passes (every one that was directed to him) for 166 yards and one touchdown.

Browns 14 Steelers 27

Four turnovers each? And these teams are professional? That statistic would usually signal a close game, but in this case it was not. Playing a more disciplined game would have allowed Pittsburgh to run away with it. We aren’t blaming Brady Quinn for wanting a trade – it’s ludicrous to watch from the bench when the starter goes nine for 24 with only 133 yards of offense. The Steelers look like they are slowly recovering from the last couple of rough weeks, but they will need to eliminate the turnovers to be successful in the coming weeks, which includes a meeting with the unbeaten Vikings. On a side note, it is good to have Troy Palomalu back on the field.
Game Ball: Ben Roethlisberger went 23 for 45 for 417 yards and two touchdowns.

Panthers 28 Buccaneers 21

Once again, Carolina managed to win despite Jake Delhomme. The Panthers were helped by two 100+ yard rushing games, but they also benefited from the inspired play of Julius Peppers, who had two sacks and three more tackles for losses. But again, like every week with Carolina, we wonder what they would have done with a quarterback that threw the ball to his own team. This time, we’re betting Steve Smith is asking the same thing.
Game Ball: D’Angelo Williams had 30 carries for 155 yards and two touchdowns, while Jon Stewart had 17 for 110 yards and one touchdown.

Chiefs 14 Redskins 6

When the Redskins play, it now means we will not see a touchdown. All of the points scored in this game were not touchdown related – Kansas City had four field goals and a safety while Washington managed two field goals – and we get frustrated just watching it. The players in our nation’s capital have turned their weekly games into “me” ball, meaning Clinton Portis running for 100 yards and Albert Haynesworth’s half of a sack are simply to keep their stats up so somehow, some way they can get traded off of the team. Surprisingly, Todd Hailey’s offensive mind still couldn’t find a way to score a points (unless you think the kicker was part of his genius as well).
Game Ball: We’re giving it to the kicker. Ryan Succop went four-for-four with a long of 46 to score 12 of the Chief’s 14 points.

Rams 20 Jaguars 23

We thought maybe, just maybe, St. Louis could rake up their first win. But alas, the universe won’t let it be so. It may have taken four quarters, but the Jags woke up and started playing some football just in time to win the game. Behind the efforts of the hyphenated twins, Mike Sims-Walker and Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville advanced to the .500 level, while the Rams are still winless. Even though the Jags lost the turnover battle, it was the penalties that killed St. Louis again this week.
Game Ball: Mike Sims-Walker had nine catches for 120 yards, while Maurice Jones-Drew had 33 carries for 133 yards and three touchdowns.

Eagles 9 Raiders 13

Every year the Eagles lose to one team that isn’t even qualified to take the field, and this week it was Oakland. The Raiders had a lot of media talking smack on them this week, and to their credit, they stayed quiet and took it out on the field with them. Their defense took advantage of an injury to offensive lineman Jason Peters as well as Andy Reid’s pass-thick play calling to get to Donovan McNabb fast and hard. The Raiders sacked McNabb six times, including two by Richard Seymour, who seems to be settling in nicely. With a game this tight and problems with the plan, Philadelphia’s problems with David Akers were highlighted – the kicker went three-for-five, but only kicked outside of 40 yards the entire day.
Game Ball: Seymour was impressive and showed the fire we were used to seeing in him from the New England days. Along with his two sacks, he had three tackles for a loss, and three more hits on McNabb during play.

Cardinals 27 Seahawks 3

After Seattle’s blowout win last week, we thought this game would be a little more competitive. Instead, Kurt Warner decided he wanted to win. He went 32 for 41 with 276 yards and two touchdowns on the day, but the real surprise was how good he looked passing to Larry Fitzgerald, who seems to have gotten out of his funk from earlier in the season. The Seahawks may have lost this game because of their complete lack of a running game – they had 11 attempts for 14 yards as a team – or it could have been Matt Hasselbeck’s lack of talent this weekend – he completed only ten passes for 112 yards and one interception. You decide who to blame.
Game Ball: Larry Fitzgerald looked explosive, catching 13 of the 15 passes he receiver for 100 yards and a touchdown.

Titans 0 Patriots 59

Jeff Fischer may be one of the best coaches in the league, but he is in a definite need of a change down there in Nashville. The Titans thought they had a star when they got Nate Washington, who is slowly proving that it’s all about the system you are playing in. They thought they were doing the right thing signing Kerry Collins to come back even though everyone said he was too old. Turns out, they were wrong. Collins completed only two passes on the day for negative seven yards and threw one interception, while Washington’s one reception was for -22 yards. Even with Chris Johnson rushing for 128 yards, the Titans still couldn’t manage to put any points on the board. Meanwhile, the Patriots are serving notice to the AFC and the rest of the league that they are back, and they mean business.
Game Ball: Let’s see… who to give it to. Tom Brady, who went 29 for 34 with 380 yards and SIX TOUCHDOWNS? That would be the one. Honorable mention goes to Randy Moss and Wes Welker for catching those well-thrown balls.

Bills 16 Jets 13

New York did everything they could to give this game to Buffalo, but the Bills wouldn’t take it. Mark Sanchez is looking younger each game, and slowly but surely that 3-0 start has crept down to 3-3. The only offensive player that looked like he was actually playing on Sunday was Thomas Jones, who wrangled a measly 200+ yards, but the rest were for the birds. Sanchez had an embarrassing five interceptions (one of which directly cost them the game), but even that didn’t directly lose the game for them. Jay Feely missed a field goal that could have put them up at the half. It was an entire team losing effort for New York, and a nasty win for Buffalo.
Game Ball? Yeah right. We guess Thomas Jones can  have it, if he even wants it.

Bears 14 Atlanta 21

Atlanta proved one thing on Sunday night: They can win if Matt Ryan isn’t on his game, especially if Jay Cutler isn’t either. This wasn’t an incredible offensive effort, especially coming off of that blowout last week, but the Falcons pulled through miraculously. Cutler and the Bears came up short on the two minute drive, which ultimately cost them the game, but when Cutler is also your leading rusher, you have a problem. The bottom line was really that Atlanta could convert in the red zone, while Chicago barely hit one of four attempts.
Game Ball: Roddy White caught four passes for 56 yards and a touchdown.

Denver 34 San Diego 23

It seems like every game is a statement game for the Broncos these days, and they went out of their way to win this one. Behind journeyman quarterback Kyle Orton, who was never meant to be this good, Denver backed up their undefeated status with big plays and clutch touchdowns. What is nice to see is that even a young team can stay calm under pressure, run a three-minute drill, and come from behind to win (again). Although their running back tandum or Correll Buckhalter and Knowshon Moreno weren’t as powerful as usual – they combined for 90 yards – wide reciever Tony Scheffler more than made up for it with six catches for 101 yards and one touchdown. Games against a very mad Baltimore team and Pittsburgh in the coming weeks will be more rocks in Denver’s not-so-smooth path. Things are going from bad to worse for the smack-talking Chargers. They really haven’t showed much promise, and if Phillip Rivers can’t come back from this start, they may be doomed for the season.
Game Ball: We said it once, we’ll say it again… Kyle Orton was never supposed to be this good. Orton went 20 for 29 with 229 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winning touchdown with three minutes left.

Week 6 Wrap Up

- Injuries: Trent Edwards has suffered a concussion after a sack early in the game. The Bills have not released word as to the severity of the head injury. This is the second concussion of his carrier… Cincinnati defensive end Antwan Odom tore his Achilles tendon during the game Sunday. He had surgery on the injury Monday, and is expected to be out long-term. He leads the league in sacks as of Week 6… Jets defensive tackle Kris Jenkins suffered a knee injury. The ACL tear is said to be season-ending… Seahawks linebacker Lofa Tatupu suffered what was believed to be a season-ending chest tear, but upon furthur review may not be as serious as previously thought. Tests revealed that the tear was partial instead of full, and may only need a few weeks of therapy… Atlanta corner back Brian Williams suffered a season-ending knee injury. Coach Mike Smith explained that Williams tore his ACL and “some other stuff” in a press conference on Monday…
- After Washington’s latest loss, the higher-ups in the franchise took play-calling ability away from head coach Jim Zorn. Zorn speculated that this would be a change just to see if he was the problem. Most experts think Zorn will be permanently removed during the bye-week.
-Shortly before Monday night’s game between the Chargers and the Broncos, a long-time stadium worker, Walt Daniels, fell from the press box. Entry to the stadium was delayed 40 minutes while the scene was investigated. Daniels was taken to a local hospital and his condition was not released.
- Steelers kicker Jeff Reed was cited for public intoxication and disorderly conduct after the win against Cleveland Sunday night. This was Reed’s second citation for the same offense, which happened at 9:00 PM at McFadden’s Bar in Pittsburgh.
- Panthers’ corner Dante Williams was suspended for one game Monday after a viscious hit on Tampa Bay’s Clinton Smith. Smith had signaled for a fair catch when Williams left his feet for a hit. Both benches cleared and Williams was ejected. Smith is said to have only a concussion.

And the UDU Game Ball Goes To…

Tom Brady needed a week like this. He set a record by throwing five touchdown passes in one half of football, then helped the Patriots set another record by opening up the biggest half-time lead in history (45-0). The 59-point win was the largest margin of victory in over 33 years. Brady went 29 for 34 with 380 yards, six touchdowns, and no interceptions.

Fine Ray Lewis

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091016/ap_on_sp_fo_ne/fbn_ravens_lewis_fined

AP Photo/Gail Burton

                The Bengals came up with a big victory in Week 5 but it was especially important due to the circumstances for defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer who found his wife, Vikki lying dead at their home earlier last week. He was undecided whether or not he was going to go on the trip to Baltimore with his team or stay with his family. I believe that him coaching in the game was a huge lift emotionally to the team and I think it was the reason they won the game. The Bengals are one of the most suprising teams in the league so far and this is a great story. Who Dey?! They the Bengals of Cincy.

This link gives a good story on how Mike Zimmer inspired the team and recaps their victory against the Baltimore Ravens.

http://espn.go.com/blog/afcnorth/post/_/id/4141/bengals-win-for-coach-zim

Analysis of Week 3 in the NFL

Game Breakdowns

Jets 24 Titans 17

For some reason, even with one of the top defenses in the league, people are still doubting New York. That defense stood up Kerry Collins and the Titans with two minutes left to go, and rookie Mark Sanchez stayed cool under pressure. With the loss, Tennessee falls to 0-3, mostly due to two fumbles on special teams by Ryan Mouton and two more  interceptions by Collins. A win is a win, even if it is against a team that is imploding.
Game Ball: Mark Sanchez, who went 17 for 30 with 171 yards and two touchdowns, and especially for that incredible 14 yard rushing touchdown.

Eagles 34 Chiefs 14

Kevin Kolb’s second start was much better than his first. With all the distractions of Michael Vick show, Kolb stayed calm, throwing two touchdowns and no interceptions. The Eagles walked up and down the field, but come on – it was against Kansas City. The only things better than Todd Haley’s hissy fits and mad faces is Matt Cassel’s face in the fourth quarter. Now, Philadlephia heads into their bye-week, which is just enough time for Donovan McNabb to heal and the Eagles to stop their revolving door of quarterbacks.
Game Ball: LeSean “Shady” McCoy, who had 20 carries for 84 yards and his first NFL touchdown.

Redskins 14 Lions 19

We’re not going to ruin this by saying that Washington played horrible or that it was a lucky win… This is a win to be reveled in. There is no way to describe the way this city has felt for the last two years, especially seeing as they had no sports to distract them. The Lions played like they wanted to win. Kevin Smith rushed for over a hundred yards, Matthew Stafford was interception-less, and the defense even survived a last-minute lateral-laden effort by Washington. They deserve this win.
Game Ball: The city of Detroit… because even in these hard economic times, 40,000 people showed up to a game that most assumed Detroit would lose. They witnessed history… a true testament to what a football fan really is.

Packers 36 Rams 17

Try as they may, the Rams just can’t win. St. Louis had a good outing considering they lost their starting quarterback. Aside from one interception, backup Kyle Boller was mediocre enough to put up 17 points. Ryan Grant almost broke 100 yards, which was a good sign seeing as he’s been steadily improving since Week 1, and Aaron Rodgers can definately use this game to build some confidence. In the end, it came down to the same old discipline problems for the Rams. Too many penalties, turnovers, and a lack of patience will definately cost you every game.
Game Ball: Aaron Rodgers, who went 13 for 23 with 269 yards and 2 touchdowns, but also accrued 38 rushing yards on 8 carries.

49ers 24 Vikings 27

With a little over a minute left, the Vikings ordered a Brett Favre special, and man did they get it. In a game like this, the reality is that someone had to lose. Mike Singletary’s game plan was perfect, and Shaun Hill was impressive again, but losing Frank Gore was definately an issue for the  Niners. This definately lived up to the hype as one of the best games of the week.
Game Ball: Greg Lewis… who had one catch in the entire game and made it count, dragging his two feet to keep in bounds for the game-winning touchdown.

Falcons 10 Patriots 26

The Patriots squeeked out a win, but to be honest, it wasn’t the most impressive of wins. Tom Brady may have “bounced back” but his stats were slightly better. The real story was New Englands defense eating up Atlanta’s running game and keeping Michael Turner to only 56 yards. The lost of tight end Tony Gonzales will definately hurt the Falcons, especially Matt Ryan.
Game Ball: Randy Moss, who recovered from a horrible showing against the Jets to grab 10 catches for 116 yards.

Giants 24 Buccaneers 0

This was a gimme game for the GMen, but they got the job done without giving up even a field goal, which was impressive. When a team only manages 85 total yards of offense, obviously they aren’t going to win the game, and Tampa seems to be getting worse by the week. We can only assume the Bucs are kicking themselves for making this their rebuilding year.
Game Ball: Brandon Jacobs, who woke up from two mediocre performances to go 92 yards on 26 carries and one touchdown.

Ravens 34 Browns 3

It’s fun to watch the Browns every week. If All My Children had actors in pads and eye black, this would be it. Brady Quinn was benched, their defense is laughable, and we’re really tired of calling Eric Mangini a Mangenius – even if we are being sarcastic. Joe Flacco turned in another quality performance in the air, but we are interested to see how his new-found passing game stands up against bigger, better teams.
Game Ball: Joe Flacco, who went 25-35 for 342 yards and one touchdown

Jaguars 31 Texans 24

After all of the Houston showed last week, this was a tough loss. Matt Schaub still played well, throwing for 300 yards and three touchdowns, but it was the defense and their inability to stop the run that gave the Texans a problem. Maurice Jones-Drew is on pace for a career year, and at this point, he can make or break a game for the Jags.
Game Ball: Maurice Jones-Drew, whi had 23 carries for 119 yards and THREE touchdowns.

Saints 27 Bills 7

Tell me you didn’t see this coming… The Bills lose a game they could have been a contender in, and Terrell Owens didn’t get the ball and is obviously upset. Here’s the point – you saw Trent Edwards throw the ball to him, and you saw him half-assing his attempts to catch it, so would you throw it to him? The Bills have the talent, but Trent Edwards needs to get his feet under him. The Saints have continued to put up big numbers, but the true test will come against the Jets next week.
Game Ball: Pierre Thomas, who in his first game of the season had 14 carries for 126 yards and two touchdowns.

Bears 25 Seahawks 19

The two missed field goals for Seattle would have tied the game and sent it into overtime, and Jim Mora knows that. He channeled his father when he lashed out in the postgame press conference, but he had the right to be angry. Seattle put up a fight behind backup Seneca Wallace, but couldn’t get it done in the end. Jay Cutler continues to redeem himself from Week 1.
Game Ball: Jay Cutler, who went 21 for 27 with 247 yards and three touchdowns

Steelers 20 Bengals 23

The Steelers usually come back in the fourth quarter rather than collapse… but this was a definate case of being gassed in the second half. Pittsburgh had more offensive yards, more rushing yards, but also more penalties and turnovers. The game came down to who wanted it more, and the Bengals had the fire that Roethlisburger’s Steelers lacked. Sloppy, tired play doesn’t win games.
Game Ball: Carson Palmer, for leading a great comeback, going 20 for 37 with 183 yards and one touchdown.

Broncos 23 Raiders 3

For the second straight week, Denvers offense has come alive on the ground as Correll Buckhalter and Knowshon Moreno combined for 200 yards. This week, JaMarcus Russel actually managed to lose the game for Oakland, but throwing two interceptions and only 61 yards. Conversly, Kyle Orton didn’t make many mistakes. Best highlight of the game goes to Brian Dawkins, who has found his personality in Denver.
Game Ball: Knowshon Moreno, who had 21 carries for 90 yards and his first NFL touchdowns.

Dolphins 13 Chargers 23

If the Dolphins tried their hardest to win the game in Week 2, they were already a step  behind when they lost Chad Pennington. Histeria ensued, as they threw away all wildcat plans and played real football. The Phins’ are 0-3, and a far cry from last year. The Chargers are squeeking by at the moment, biding their time and getting their wins, but we haven’t seen anything special about them and their team. Their schedule will eventually get harder, and they can’t just float on to wins all season.
Game Ball: Phillip Rivers, who went 18 for 33 with 303 yards and a rushing touchdown.

Colts 31 Cardinals 10

This week, Indianapolis showed us just what they can do when they have the ball for over 30 minutes. The Colts overwhelmed Arizona, on both sides of the ball. Their defense pressured Kurt Warner into two interceptions, while Peyton Manning might as well have lived in the endzone. The Colts got to Warner, sacking him four times while the Cardinals couldn’t get through to Manning at all . It was a massacre, but the Colts look to be back to their winning ways of the Dungy era.
Game Ball: Reggie Wayne, who had seven receptions for 126 yards and one touchdown

Cowboys 21 Panthers 7

All hail the most boring first half in MNF history. The ‘Boys and Carolina couldn’t get anything started. Jake Delhomme can’t go one game without an interception, it’s official, but this time, it directly cost them a chance at a win. Thanks to John Gruden and Ron Jaworski, everyone in America can say that maybe, just maybe, that last interception was Steve Smith’s fault. We just have to wonder, how long do you stick with this guy? At least the Cowboys got their win, because they don’t get another week to party. 
Game Ball: Because NO ONE else was worth it… Tashard Choice, for 17 carries and 76 yards, with one touchdown.

Week 3 Round Up

Injury Report: Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington had a torn shoulder capsule, and pending a second opinion, is potentially out for the season… Rams quarterback Mark Bulger left the game with a bruised rotator cuff, but team doctors haven’t ruled him out for next week… San Francisco runningback Frank Gore left the game after only one carry with a sprained right ankle, but it’s severity won’t be known until MRI results… Dwight Freeney injured his right quad against the Cardinals Sunday night, he is questionable and will participate in some of the team’s practice Tuesday… Cardinals tough guy Darnell Dockett left the game with a sprained right ankle, but came back to play on it for the rest of the game.
- After their blowout loss to New York, Tampa Bay has benched starting quarterback Byron Leftwhich. Backup Josh Johnson will start in Week 4, while rookie Josh Freeman will be his backup, and Leftwhich slips to third on the depth chart.
- Even though the Redskins lost to one of the worst teams in the NFL, officials in Washington say that coach Jim Zorn’s job is safe. Speculation arrised after his playcalling was questioned several times during the game.
- Buffalo will soon have a very vocal Terrell Owens on their hands. The wide reciever went 185 games with at least one reception, and that streak was broken when Owens and quarterback Trent Edwards failed to connect. Owens was quiet (but oh-so-obvious) during his post-game press conference, and it seems as if conflict is brewing.

The UDU Game Ball Goes to…

The city of Detroit really waited a long time for this. With all  of their problems, and only the Tigers to distract them, the city deserved this. The 40,000 people who went to the game are the world’s best fans, but the city is in the news for something good this week, and we have to say, it’s refreshing.

Top 5 Moments on week 3 of the NFL. Moments that deserve recognition.

1. The Pittsburgh Steelers are losing their groove without their pro bowl safety Troy Palamulu. I told them they would miss him as they are 0-2 without him. Most importantly, Big Ben loses his first game in Ohio. Against the Bengals,  a team he has overly dominated over the years simply out played them. Carson Palmer did something that we usually see in Ben. A comeback. It would be interesting to see if the Steelers can rebound against the Chargers although I doubt it as Philip Rivers will continue to attack thoses safeties. Despite struggles in the redzone, the Bolts are a team that can score over 30 points.

2. Buffalo Bills reciever Terrel Owens finished the game without a catch. Something he hasnt done since 1997. A streak well over 180 games. So why is that? Well he is not in sync with young guy Trent Edwards. But most significantly was the fact that the Bills actually slowed down the Saints passing attack. Keeping Bress below 200 yards passing and no TD. Something that was unbelievable to me. Although the Bills lost, two stars were not a factor. Bress and Owens need to find their groove back. Especially Owens.

3. The Tenessee Titans 0-3 start. A team that went 13-3 and had I believe a 9 game winning streak last year is now on the other side of the hill while thier rivals Colts are 3-0. Three games below everyone in their division. Not a good start but certaintly interesting considering their offseason hype.

4. Lions snap 19 game losing streak after beating the Washington Redskins. Maybe they should be a little concerned. The offense failed to put up points despite having great numbers. Also, Hayensworth(100 million dollar man) was injured in the game. What seems like a promising season just put the Redskin dead last in the NFC East.

5. Denver proving resiliency. After being one of the worst defense in the league last year, the new 3-4 defense proved to be Denvers strength as their offense plays manager. Allowing no more then 7 points, this defense seems poised to be among the tops. Although two games were against horrible teams like the Browns and the Raiders, you still have to give them credit.

And that is my top  moments in week 3 of the NFL.

By Justin Cherot

Yes, PnP didn’t go all CBA or XFL on you guys.  Both Colin and I have had busy weeks–me with school and work, Colin with teaching the kiddies.  For the sake of renewing my writing vigor, I’ve decided to come out of the woodwork.  After all, if I’m going to deliver the first installment of the most unique NBA preview ever, I have to shake off the rust.

And what better way to do that than supply you guys with some picks?

I do have some extra motivation to show these off.  My boy Rashand is hosting a pick ‘em pool, and I plan to walk away with all the money this week.  Given my overall record of 26-6 this season, I think my chances of taking this thing are pretty good.

As always when Colin and I do these things, I’m not doing spread-based picks (yet, but maybe next week).  I’m just giving you (foolproof, infallible logic-induced) winners.

WEEK 3 (winners in bold)

Washington at Detroit- As ODB proclaimed on the Wu-Tang’s game-changer “Triumph”, the saga continues.  However, I took a spread bet on this game saying that the Lions would lose by less than 21.  At the moment it seems smart, because so far the Redskins haven’t been able to find the endzone in broad daylight with a flashlight, a map, a GPS and a tour guide.  But, more so than any other sport, the NFL is a week-to-week league.  The ‘Skins will probably go out and hang 42 in Motown with my luck.

Green Bay at St. Louis- Some guy I work with bet me that the Rams would win.  Straight-up.  No spread.  Seriously?  This ain’t 2000.  As a matter of fact, the Rams may just give up 2000 yards in this game alone.  But, stranger things have happened.

San Francisco at Minnesota- No disrespect intended towards Detroit and Cleveland, but the Vikings and Brett Favre haven’t faced an NFL defense yet.  I expect the old man to be on his back all day.  The only reason the Vikes stay in this game is because Adrian Peterson is illegal.

Atlanta at New England- It’s early, I know, but this is almost a make or break game for the Patriots (great article by Bill Simmons this week about the Pats).  And, in a make or break game, I’d rather have Tom Brady.  I think this will be an entertaining game worth calling out of work for, but I see the Pats withstanding a Falcons offensive onslaught with some scoreboard-breaking of their own.

Tennessee at New York Jets- Like a lot of people, I predicted a big drop-off for the Titans this year.  However, this will be the best defense by far that Mark “Dirty” Sanchez has seen in this young season.  We’ll learn a lot about his poise in the pocket today, but I don’t see Jeff Fisher letting his team start 0-3.

Kansas City at Philadelphia- I’ve got a joke that I’m trying out.  What do you call the Eagles’ Wildcat formation with Michael Vick on the field?  Answer: The Vick Tease.

(I will now pause for drink-spewing laughter).

New York Giants at Tampa Bay-  When do we get to see Josh Freeman?  Thankfully for him, his debut will not be this week… unless Osi Umenyiora and company DeBo Byron Leftwich out the game.

Cleveland at Baltimore- The Browns may suck for 14 games out of the regular season, but every year without exception they BRIIIIIING IT when they play the Ravens.  So, while I still expect the Ravens to push their record to 3-0, I think the game will be closer than people think.

Jacksonville at Houston- The Texans’ playoff push begins now.  It’s weird how they’ve riden the critical rollercoaster in the past three weeks, from being everybody’s darkhorse pre-season team to “I can’t believe I’m actually saying this but Rex Grossman is this team’s best QB” to “Matt Shaub is the next Joe Montana”.  Fine, I made the last one up, but long story short, Houston wins this game because Jacksonville is such a mess right now.

Chicago at Seattle- I forget which way I leaned on this one when doing Rashand’s pool, but if I did pick Seattle then I’m gravitating away from that pick.  Jay Cutler showed me a little something last week against a pretty good Steelers’ defense (Troy Polamalu or no Troy Polamalu).  That, plus the health of Matt Hasselbeck, lean me more favorably towards the Bears.

Expect Drew Brees to air it out early and often against the Bills. Photo courtesy SI.com.

New Orleans at Buffalo- One reason (other than the usual work, school and fatherhood bit) that I’ve shied away from PnP lately is Madden ‘10.  I mention that because the Saints are my favorite team of the moment, simply because Drew Brees is unstoppable.  Art imitates life, and I don’t see that changing this week against a secondary that might have trouble stopping high school offenses at this point.

Pittsburgh at Cincinatti- Yeah, I took straight-up action on this game, too.  Actually, I pretty much committed to this one in Week 2, and at the time I felt really good about it.  Now?  Not so sure, especially with the Steelers coming off of a loss and the Bengals coming off of an impressive win against my NFC Super Bowl team.  I’m still sticking with my guns, especially since I don’t know how much pressure Cincy can get on Ben Roethlisberger.

Denver at Oakland- Look… we all know I’m a Raiders fan.  As a rule, I usually don’t put money on my favorite team.  Thankfully, I’m just making thought-provoking predictions.  Seriously though, I’m so not ready to buy into the Broncos being a 3-0 team, even if they are “blessed” with a game against the Raiders.  If nothing else, the Raiders’ running attack will kep them competitive.  I’m just praying JaMarcus Russell doesn’t find (another) way to screw up a divisional home game. 

Miami at San Diego- The Wildcat looked very good against the Colts last week, but the Chargers’ defense, even without a couple key parts functioning at 100%, should be able to tame it.  Plus, even without Ladanian Tomlinson, the Chargers have too many weapons offensively for the Dolphins.

Peyton Manning and Co. go into their shootout with Arizona well-equipped for a win. Photo courtesy SI.com

Indianapolis at Arizona- Although I will never get to enjoy an uninterrupted Sunday of football due to my work schedule, I am glad that I’ll usually be home in time for the Sunday night game every weekend.  Very good one this week, and I expect a shootout.  However, in such a close game on paper to choose, I go with consistency.  You never know what Arizona team will show up, but there’s no doubt that Peyton Manning will bring his “A” game.  I know football is a team sport and everything, but that’s a big factor.

Carolina at Dallas- I talk about this often enough on Facebook, but I don’t think I’ve shared this with the rest of my PnP audience.  I have a bet with two of my co-workers that a punter will hit the scoreboard less than three times this season.  They, of course, took the over.  Seven games left.  Truthfully, that’s probably the only reason I’ll watch this game.  Other than that, the Cowboys will take it to the Panthers.  And Jake Delhomme may not make it out of this one alive… mentally.  Cheer up, Jake.  I’ve thrown eight picks in a game of Madden once.  If I can make it back, anyone can.

Oh, shout-out to Kory Campbell.  You got your football fix in for this week.  Now shut up and start taking my NBA previews like a man.

Courtesy of  Boston Herald

This picture was just taken before the packer fan (to the left) told chad ochocinco how he really feels with the 1 finger salute.

A report that is swirling about is that Chad Johnson or Ochocinco bought 4 bengals fans tickets to the game against Green Bay so he could have a safe spot to land on. He met this fans through twitter and the bengal fans gladly accepted his offer to come for free. I don’t know what know what everyone else thinks but I personally think he found a way to chicken out of what was supposed to be a legitimate lambeau leap.

What does everyone think about this?

Analysis of Week 2 in the NFL

Game Breakdowns

Panthers 20 Falcons 28

Plenty of stars who didn’t show up in Week 1 came to play in Atlanta. Mike Turner, who only put up 65 yards in his first game, ran for over 100 yards, and Steve Smith of Carolina had 131 yards on only eight receptions. Jake Delhomme only threw one interception this week, which should be an improvement, but he threw it at a pivotal point in the game and most likely cost the Panthers the game. Matt Ryan passed for three touchdowns, including one to Tony Gonzalez who pulled in 71 yards on the day. The Falcons may have not had the perfect game, but every win is welcomed in Atlanta.
UDU Player of the Game: Michael Turner, RB… 28 carries for 105 yards and a TD

Vikings 27 Lions 13

After last week, football fans assumed Adrian Peterson would write the headlines and Brett Favre would just manage the game. It’s obviously going to be a toss up ever week. Peterson had an off day as far as he is concerned, with 92 yards and a costly fumble, but Favre was 23 for 27 with two touchdowns. The Lions actually led in this one, but Matthew Stafford is proving he may not be ready for the NFL (he is tied with Jake Delhomme for the most picks through two weeks).
UDU Player of the Game: Brett Favre, QB… went 23-27 for 155 yards and 2 TDs

                                         Bengals 31 Packers 24 

Two more seconds and the Pack would have had a win… or at least that’s what they were saying in Green Bay. It came down to the last second for Cincinnati again this week, but this time they were on the right side of it. Ocho Cinco backed up his loud mouth with four receptions for 91 yards, including a touchdown after which he did the Lambeau Leap. Green Bay looked like the team of last year – uncoordinated and shaky – and Ryan Grant could barely muster 46 yards throughout the entire game.
UDU Player of the Game: Cedric Benson, RB… 29 carries for 141 yards

Texans 34 Titans 31

This was a monster win for Houston, beating a defense who didn’t show up on Sunday. Both teams put up over 30 points, but the difference here was the quarterbacks. Matt Schaub looked like a veteran, throwing four touchdown passes, completing two to one of the most underrated wide receivers in the league, Andre Johnson. Off season acquisition Nate Washington only caught one pass on the day, Kerry Collins dropped the ball without much pressure, and just like that, the Titans are 0-2.
UDU Player of the Game: Matt Schaub, QB… went 25-39 with 357 yards and 4 TDs

Raiders 13 Chiefs 10

This is JaMarcus Russell’s team, and so far, he’s all but run them into the ground. Even in the win, Russell completed only seven of his 24 passes. On the other hand, Matt Cassel may have thrown for 241 yards, but he threw two very costly interceptions. This time, it was the Raiders winning on a last second touchdown. We have to give credit to their team, especially their defense, who kept them in a game when their quarterback could not. Todd Haley’s offensive genius isn’t showing through in Kansas City at all.
There will be no UDU Player of the Game, because all of them were pretty horrible.

Patriots 9 Jets 16

After a come-from-behind win against Buffalo, the Patriots came out flat. New York’s defense kept them in the game in the first half, where they barely managed to put up 60 yards of offense, and also sealed the game by shutting down a Tom Brady Special (aka a two minute game-winning drive). Mark Sanchez wasn’t amazing, but he was more calm than a rookie in his position had the right to be, and responded beautifully to pressure. The real story was Tom Brady, who lacked that fire we are all used to seeing. The quarterback completed less than 50% of his passes, threw one interception, and was held without a touchdown.
UDU Player of the Game: While the Jets gave their game ball to the fans, we award ours to the entire defense. To hold Tom Brady and the explosive Patriots to only three field goals, even though they had great field position? They all get the nod. 

Saints 48 Eagles 22

Kevin Kolb proved all his critics wrong… for the first quarter. Look at the stat sheer, and everything looks even… except for turnovers and penalties. The Eagles can blame whoever they want, but they lost this game by themselves. DeSean Jackson and Brent Celek played well, but Drew Brees’s offense just over powered the Birds. The Eagles may need Jeff Garcia… hell even Detroit put up 27 points against the Saints.
UDU Player of the Game: Marquis Colston, WR… 8 receptions for 98 yards and 2 TDs

Cardinals 31 Jaguars 17

After a tough loss to San Francisco last week, Kurt Warner took the game into his own hands, going 24 for 26 (an NFL record) with two TDs. It was a team effort – Tim Hightower rushed for 72 yards, and Steve Breaston had five catches for 83 yards. Jacksonville continues to look lackluster, but maybe David Gerrard learned a thing or two from Kurt Warner as he watched from the sideline.
UDU Player of the Game: Kurt Warner, QB… went 24-26 with 243 yards and two TDs

Rams  7 Redskins 9

If there was one NFC East team who wasn’t up to par, Washington is it. In a game where both quarterbacks lost control, the ‘Skins edged out a win. One bright spot for Washington was the re-emergence of tight end Chris Cooley, who had 83 yards today. If the Rams want to win this year, Mark Bulger has to get better (he threw for only 125 yards today). Even if Bulger does manage to find a rhythm, St. Louis wont win without discipline.
UDU Player of the Game: Chris Cooley, TE… had seven carries for 83 yards

Buccaneers 20 Bills 33

It’s hard to win a game with any interceptions, let alone one returned for a touchdown. While Trent Edwards wasn’t perfect, he was helped by Fred Jackson who had just over 160 yards for the day. The win was big for Buffalo after last week’s heart-breaker, and especially because the AFC East is looking a lot more competitive these days.
UDU Player of the Game: Fred Jackson, RB… 28 carries for 163 yards

49ers 23  Seahawks 10

The 49ers are 2-0, and Mike Singletary has proven that his way is the right way for San Francisco. Frank Gore is  back, which is a great option for Shaun Hill. Of course, the story of the game is Matt Hasselbeck and his broken ribs, but we wonder: When is Matt Hasselbeck going to stay healthy?
UDU Player of the Game: Frank Gore, RB… 16 carries for 207 yards and 2 TDs

Steelers 14 Bears 17

Even after a rough first half, Jay Cutler responded and the Bears came back to win. It wasn’t a huge margin of victory by all means, but it was a moral victory which leaves the Bears pumped up. There were no incredible standouts, and no big offensive runs… this was classic, hard-nosed football to the end. The worst part of it all was watching Troy Palomalu watching helplessly from the sidelines.
UDU Player of the Game: Jay Cutler, QB… 27-38 with 236 yards and 2 TDs

Ravens 31 Chargers 26

Baltimore’s defense is baaaaaacccckkkk. Even though San Diego put up 26 points, the Ravens limited their running game, holding them to 53 total yards. Phillip Rivers will have to ice his throwing arm after passing for 436 yards, but the story was the defense – especially Terrell Suggs, who just looked like a rocket off of the line. The Chargers aren’t playing like the championship-caliber team everyone said they were in preseason.
UDU Player of the Game: Ray Lewis, LB… For psyching his team up, and that incredible hit on Darren Sproles

Browns 6 Broncos 27

Eric Mangini definitely got a competitive advantage by choosing Brady Quinn because they’re finding new, more amazing ways to lose. Kyle Orton could be his mediocre self today, because the Browns make everyone look good. The missing piece for the Broncos was evidentally their running game. Correll Buckhalter and Knowshon Moreno (who’s knee is evidentially feeling better) combined for about 150 yards.
UDU Player of the Game: Correll Buckhalter, RB… 9 carries for 76 yards and 1 TD

Giants 33 Cowboys 31

If drama was what Jerry Jones wanted, it’s drama he got. The Cowboys lost their first game in that billion-dollar stadium on a last second field goal, and there are plenty of people to blame in Dallas (Tony Romo threw an unprecedented three interceptions, Felix Jones had a costly fumble… the list goes on forever). The Giants, however, were pleasantly surprised by the play of one man: Mario Manningham. Manningham and fellow wide receiver Steve Smith had over 180 yards of receiving, keeping New York in the game when their workhorse Brandon Jacobs couldn’t.
UDU Player of the Game: Mario Manningham, WR… 10 catches for 150 yards and 1TD

Colts 27 Miami 23

We have to admit, we didn’t think the game would be that exciting. The Dolphins completely controled the game, running the ball and playing the wildcat all night long. A lot of the credit goes to Peyton Manning who won a game when he only had the ball for less than 15 minutes (another NFL record this week). We almost felt bad for the Dolphins, but the reason they lost was exactly what made them dominant – they ran out the clock. Not one player was hustling to the line, and they lost  valuable time shuffling their feet. However, one thing is clear: No one can run the wildcat and be as successful as the Dolphins. Apparently, you can win a game with only 13 plays in the second half.
UDU Player of the Game: Ronnie Brown, RB… 24 carries for 136 yards and 2 TDs

Week 2 Roundup

• Injury Report: Brian Westbrook (RB, Eagles) was seen on the sideline getting his ankle taped in the third quarter. It was later released that he has a sprained right ankle (the same ankle he had surgery on in June). It is not known whether he will be available Sunday… Matt Hasselbeck(QB, Seattle) has fractured a rib when he was hit much like Donovan McNabb was last week. Hasselbeck was hit in the back near the goal line, but the real question is the condition of his back, which kept him out most of last season… Justin Tuck was injured when he was tripped late in the game against Dallas Sunday night. Tests will conclude whether he will be available for the Giants next Sunday… Brett Favre was seen holding his throwing hand late in the game. The Vikings released that his injury is only a bent fingernail, and will not threaten his healthy streak… Marrion Barbertweaked something in his leg during the Sunday night game, and tests revealed it was a quad strain. His status is unsure for Week 3… Second overall draft pick Jason Smith, St. Louis’s offensive tackle, went down before the half. An MRI Monday revealed a knee sprain, and will be listed as doubtful as next week.
• Late Monday morning, the New York Daily News reported that San Francisco has filed tampering charges against the Jets. Coming off of the big win against the Patriots, Rex Ryan blew off the accusations, calling them “ridiculous”. The Daily News alledged that the Jets want a wide receiver that bad.
• With Donovan McNabb still ailing, Andy Reid has said that if McNabb can’t go on Sunday, Kevin Kolb will start his second game. Kolb got an overall grade of B- for his performance Sunday from the Philadelphia fans, but not from Jeff Garcia. The outspoken backup (in town for maybe, two games max) criticized play calling in the game, saying that the Eagles need to get back to football instead of playing with all the gadget plays.

The UDU Game Ball Goes to…

Frank Gore went from a dismal 22 carries for 30 yards to a break out game on Sunday. Week one, his longest was six yards… Sunday, his longest was 80 yards. There were plenty of people who thought his production would slow down, but Gore proved us wrong this week.

Week one gave us lots of drama, yelling at the t.v., and worrying on Monday night if Randy Moss scores then your team would lose. Highlights of week one has to start with the 6 touchdown performance from Drew Brees against the minor league Lions squad, then to Cleveland where Adrian Peterson runs over the Browns for 3 touchdowns, and Houston we have a problem…the Texans high powered offense gets blanked by a very good Rex Ryan Jet’s defense. Tom Brady and the Pats get lucky and win thanks to Leodis McKelvin’s fumbled kickoff return, and with no LT the Chargers sneak out of the Black Hole with a win. With all this excitement and more no body knows what week 2 will bring us. So here’s your start/sit em’ to rule your league in week number 2…..

Quarterbacks: START- Brett Favre- The ageless wonder didn’t do much against the Browns but then again he didn’t have to thanks to Adrian Peterson running all day over the dawg pound. After seeing the Lions allow six passing touchdowns to Drew Brees and the Saints last week it’s easy to see that Head Coach Jim Schwartz has work to do with that defense. This should give Favre the chance for at least two touchdowns and 220+ yards. Here’s a fun little stat, Favre has 8,524 passing yards against Detroit, his most vs. any single opponent for his career.

SIT- Carson Palmer- The Bengals offense didn’t look good at all against a poor Denver defense so as Cincy heads to the not so frozen tundra of Lambeau Field, I don’t see him fairing any better. The Packers defense looked great at home against the Bears and intercepted QB Jay Cutler only four times. Palmer will likely have a similar game to his Week 1 outing with 200+ passing yards, no touchdowns and multiple interceptions.

Running Backs: START- Darren McFadden- McFadden had a good opening week at home against San Diego as he led the Raiders in carries with 17 for 68 yards, and he also added two catches for 25 yards. This week, McFadden faces a Kansas City team he dominated last year when he had 21 carries for 164 yards and a touchdown and one catch for 9 yards with a lost fumble at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs defense showed in Week 1 at Baltimore that their run stopping ability is still terrible as the Ravens had their way with running Ray Rice and Willis McGehee wild all day long.

SIT- LaDainian Tomlinson- After the speculation in the offseason of LT receding since he is now hit the pivotal 30 age mark. He says he still has it but his body on Monday night didn’t look like it. LT hurt his ankle in the first quarter against the Raiders and so the safe option with Tomlinson is to keep him reserved because if he plays hurt he won’t be effective, and that’s the last thing you want against the Ravens, who have not allowed a 100-yard rusher in the past 36 games.

Wide Recievers: START- Lee Evans- Tampa Bay allowed three passing touchdowns last week to Roy E. Williams, Patrick Crayton, Miles Austin. All three touchdowns were from 40 yards or longer and that bouds well for Lee Evans as he specializes in the deep ball, so look for Trent Edwards to take some shots downfield in his direction.

SIT- Devery Henderson-  He typically struggles on the road and on grass and in his past five games on grass, Henderson has only 10 catches for 169 yards and one score. So the times to play Henderson are at home against a weak pass defense. As he did that last week against the Lions when he had five catches for 103 yards and a touchdown. But the Eagles will clamp down on Henderson, and don’t expect him to play get a deep bomb like he did against Detroit.

If you have a situation on your team and you don’t know who to start or who to sit just write a comment and I’ll give you my insight. Have a fantastic week 2 and be sure to throwdown in your showdown!!

On Sunday evening, as Denver Bronco players were most likely returning to their Colorado residences from a freakshow win in Cincinnati, Jay Cutler was taking the field in Green Bay. As interested NFL players, perhaps they zapped on 50-plus inches of pure HD to catch the day’s highlights and watch two well-hyped teams play a well-hyped game on national television. Al Michaels and Chris Collinsworth couldn’t resist: enough Cutler backstory and Cutler close-ups to fill a month’s worth of US Weekly, incessantly circling back to the scandal that got him there, savoring every dish like the booth was a sewing circle. And even though Denver’s current quarterback had an awful day in the Natty, it had to have been somewhat of a surprise to see the former Denver QB looking every bit his bad rap: surly on the sideline, fits after plays, cuffed decisions, three critical interceptions, then a fourth on the game-losing drive. The Bears vs. Broncos preseason game meant nothing in terms of statistical posterity, but the Broncos came out looking like dummies. The Bears Week One game is only a single loss, but in terms of image, the orange and blue came out a little more buffed than the last time Michaels and Collinsworth blew sunshine up Cutler’s backside for three hours like they were the anti-Tom Skerritt. And despite gorging on a Sunday nightcap of schadenfreude, Cutler’s nationally televised yardsale means nothing. What matters is the win the Broncos snatched off the HAZMAT shores of the Ohio River hours earlier.

"The simple fact is you feel responsible for Goose and you have a confidence problem. Now I'm not gonna sit here and blow sunshine up your a**, Lieutenant. A good pilot is compelled to evaluate what's happened, so he can apply what he's learned. Up there, we gotta push it. That's our job."

The Broncos earned that win. Two statements might dispute this contention: 1) Bungle receivers dropped seven passes. 2) The oh-so-very Bungle deflection to Brandon Stokley was Larry Mize 1987 Masters kind of luck.

As to the first: It’s true endless drops contributed to the demise of the Bungles. Three by Laveranues Coles alone, two of those on third down and on the downfield side of the marker. Denver also had its share of drops: five. There is something to be said for Week 1 rust or jitters or discombobulation. Aside from watching the Giants turn the Redskins (such a racist mascot, from the nation’s capital no less) into skid marks, we didn’t see much finely tuned pro football all weekend. Drops, penalties, and blown plays (tricky to spot as a spectator) were everywhere Thursday, Sunday, and Monday. And if you can claim drops delivered the Bungles L you have to also consider the Broncos’ potential game-icing drive. Denver got the ball with just over 13 minutes left on their own 35, up 6-0. Breaks down like this: 6-yard completion, incompletion, 9-yard completion, first down; 1-yard run, holding penalty, 10-yard completion, 20-yard completion, first down; 4-yard run, 1-yard run, false start, then the most ridiculous laundry ever: on third and ten from the 29 (46-yard field goal) Denver completes a 16-yard screen however center Casey Weigmann, who released on the play, was called for holding. Orton takes a sack the following play at the 42 (59-yard field goal). Shoddy. The point is, blaming Week One Ls on slop is pointless, both teams are dealing with it.

And to the second: Lucky if you believe you don’t make your own luck. Our case why Stokley’s game winner was unlike Mize’s 140-foot playoff chip: First, Brandon Marshall was the intended target. Say what you will about the man (we do) this play is proof positive Marshall changes the game simply by being on the field. When Orton let that thing fly three defenders converged on him, abandoning deep containment. Could that be because they feared his open field capabilities, perhaps they’d been coached all week to corral him in space? Second, it was a good throw. It was a 35-yarder, and any dummy blogger can see Orton’s passes are not sizzling through the ether. Yet Cornerback Leon Hall had to make an outstanding play just to get a hand on it and prevent the completion. So much so that Hall’s deflection was out of control and contrary to everything he’s been coached in his football life; so much so he himself is hurtling out of control and out of the play, he had to totally sell out just to get a hand on it. Third, Stokley himself said after the game the play did not call for him to be in the neighborhood. Because Stokley saw the play through, and because the Bungles defenders did not, what does that say about the group of players involved in this particular play? Fourth, if there is any mystical component to the play it’s not luck, it’s karma: it was Denver’s game all day long. Case in point: Denver allowed zero points for 59 minutes yet held the ball six minutes fewer in total, at half the difference was over 2:1 (9:16 to 20:44). They held the lead for 29 minutes only to see the game-icing drive wiped off the books with a dubious, questionable, totally confounding yellow rag. Moreover, stepping even further out on the mystical limb, after eight months they had it (something, anything) coming to them. It’s fun to railroad Pincers because he’s a weird NFG but you know he works hard. You know he demands the same of his staff and players. It clear he won’t abide by anything other than a 100% team-orientated Canton old school approach. The same could likely be said of his 31 counterparts, but for a lil fella who appears to have put a lifetime of sweet equity into this sport, and after eight months of doing what he felt was right only to see those decisions turn into mushroom clouds and subsequently he and his boss were publicly eviscerated, well, maybe he, his staff, and his players made a few deposits in the karma bank along the way.

Mize holes it for the 1987 Masters victory, such luck

Here’s another contention: Denver beat a decent team. Clearly the Bungles are physical. Note Roy Williams and Rey Maualuga bowing up Knowshon Moreno and Eddie Royal, respectively (the latter was actually a pinball between Keith Rivers and Maualuga, painful). Tank Johnson, Domata Peko and crew disallowed any Denver run-game rhythm. The Denver players that make the run-game tick on any given play are talented, either blocking or running, no question. Offensively, the Bungles’ offensives line gave a gimpy Carson Palmer and Chad Ochocinco time to connect. Those are two elite NFL players; Coles and Chris Henry are not beta either. But Carson got pressure (three sacks) and that jumbo offensive line (only one player below 315 pounds) is not a group of slappies. Cedric Benson is 225 pounds and could have done severe damage were it not for great tackling all day. There is talent on both sides of the ball, and the pairing of Rivers and Maualuga is scary. In fact, we’ll be tuning into future Bungles games just to watch those two at work.

If it weren’t for the equally brilliant play of Denver’s linebackers (sacks by Andre Davis, Darrell Reid, and Mario Haggan; Haggan with a brilliant special teams tackle as well) it would’ve been frustrating to watch Rey. For in those few moments back on April 25, when Denver traded to the top of the second round, after months of emailing Rey’s USC highlight reel to one another, we thought for sure Pincers was going after his middle linebacker of the future and getting him for a song. Are non-psychotic adult semi-super fans allowed to dance around a living room because of such things? Of course that thought was instantly dashed when the name Alphonso Smith flashed across the HD, even more so when we learned what Pincers gave up for the slow 190-pounder from Wake Forest. Yes, it was painful to see Rey in a Bungles uniform on Sunday, but that was ultimately nullified by the outstanding play of young Smith himself … it was time to let go of Rey. It has been written here that the decision to trade for the top of the second, and the player they chose with that pick, was a full-blown blunder. An embarrassment. After a stellar preseason (sans Chicago) and a big first game as a pro, we here at Coach Pincers Owns You are officially off the back of the decision and the player. Fonzie is rad, two first round picks two years in a row is just not a financially sound approach. Crow served, crow eaten. Mmm, feathery.

Ding Dong the wuss is dead, the weakest wuss is dead! We hinted at it here with the free agent additions, then again with the green shoots in the preseason, but after Sunday we must aver, we’ve thoroughly examined her, it’s not only merely dead, the old defense is really most sincerely dead.

The Denver defense is currently legit. We wont go so far as to claim a high end-of-season ranking, or even if they will be better than average statistically, that will play itself out. But one thing is for certain: they are no longer league Kleenex. Far from it. They went toe-to-toe against a large physical offense, on the field for over 20 minutes in the first half, even letting the Bungles extend drives only to bow-up on third downs that were ever so slightly out of Shayne Graham’s range. They played tough, physical, and swarmed. They played with pride and heart. It’s a treat, if only for one Sunday, a pure joy to behold. Instead of the laugh track of 07-08, they left behind some bumps and bruises. The pro football team from Denver is tough again. Imagine! (This can also be said: With years of drafting and free agency at his disposal, Mike Shanahan couldn’t build—or preferred to build the other side—a tough defense. Pincers did it in one offseason. Oh but he did it at the cost of Cutler, you say. No way. Smith and Robert Ayers are the only current defensive byproducts of Cutler. They are not the tipping point.)

When we talk about a physical performance, we’re not trying to go pseudo former player with our rhetoric, nor are we projecting the episodes of HBOs Hard Knocks we caught on-demand last weekend. Admit it, pro sports are symbolic. Take a bunch of paid guys from different hometowns and different universities and put them on your city’s pro team and it might as well be a political office: it represents, it bears the city’s name, it is the current incarnation of a team followed for years, decades, generations. You think Pittsburgh or Chicago or New York will ever field anything other than a smash mouth football squad? For too long in Denver it’s been a fancy pants offensive squad and a light quick defense. As if somehow speed could transcend the essence of the sport. Physicality trumps all. And the 09 version of Denver’s pro football team is showing a special brand of toughness that doesn’t embarrass an entire time zone. If you haven’t seen it, look no further than this clip (:45) of Brian Dawkins winding up his defense before they took the field … Oh, my, lord … We don’t think we’ve seen anything like it. That’s probably one of the coolest things we’ve seen, in general, ever. It does it an injustice to describe or quote it, just click and behold. As Dawkins said himself last week, he’s an anointed man. Uh, yeah B Dawk, you are single handedly changing the face of the franchise and as a consequence a sense of pride the whole city feels when you take the field. Dude is All Creation.

Which, of course, is to say nothing of what Orton is. We thought he was the scrappy overachiever, he of sound mind and epic heart. Unfortunately, the way he looked on Sunday, his physical skills are the least of his worries. Orton looked shocked. He looked awed. It was bombs over Paul Brown Stadium and he sought shelter. Which is totally confusing to us! If you saw any Bears games last year he was never that bad. He was in control, he led, he moved the ball, he was existent. It was too big for him last week, he mentally shrank, too much white in his eyes, he tripped, he couldn’t hit water if he fell out of a boat. If we were Crash Davis and Kyle Orton was a subdued version of Ebbie Calvin LaLoosh, and we dared him to hit us the chest with a pass from 10 feet away, Orton would smash out the bar’s back door window 10 out of 10 times and we would end up punching him in the nose then helping him up then buying him a beer then bird-dog Susan Sarandon for the rest of the night.

Show me that million dollar arm cuz, oh I got a good idea about that ten cent head of yours

But Orton isn’t afflicted with Nuke’s mental state and that’s why we gaped at the HD on Sunday like we were watching a Sara Palin interview: did that just happen? Two things: the glove and the new offense. He’s got to overcome them by Week Four when the meat of the schedule shows up at his place of work like a disgruntled shylock. Otherwise, prepare for an avalanche of hate (Jake Plummer 2006) to come barreling down the mountainside: the snowpack is faceted, there is some fresh snow on top of weak layers, it wont take much for it to slide. If he can’t mentally check-in with the tenuous support he has now, it’s hard to imagine what he’ll do with the opposite. Oh, it’s a powerful brand of hate, it exceeds fence line conversations, penetrates the blogs, filters into the words of beat reporters then finally the mouths of national talking heads. And now the guy’s gotta come up with a win every week no matter what. Finger bad? F*** ***, win for me me. Oh, you’re having trouble with the scheme? F*** ***, win for me. Place got hit by lightning huh? F*** *** win for me. And then what do you do? When you can’t borrow another excuse from the trainer’s room, when you cant sell another “I’ll work harder” to the press… you put Brandstater in.

NRRROOOOOOOOOO!!!!! … Don’t do it Denver, let him be, don’t go Plummer 06 on the situation. Brandy may or may not be the future but he’s simply not ready for anything. In your hearts, you know its true.

A Denver Broncos fan plots his next move to reduce Kyle Orton's confidence level to rubble

We think Orton bounces back this week. (And is there a worse name for your knee-knocking starting QB? Kyle … “Orton.” Straight from the corn and soy rows like heroic Midwest QBs of past and present. But there’s No “Quinn” … no “Cutler” … no “Warner” ring to it … just a 4H-vernacular sounding “Orton” to pull up your fantasy score and cuss a blue streak at the cathode rays.) He bounces back because the Cleveland Browns hate Eric Mangini. It’s worse than management ignoring then covering up a virulent internally-bred staph infection. Sure, the New York Giants hated Tom Coughlin then won the Bowl in 07, but that was with an extremely talented front office that had been loading the team with ballers all decade. It was the underachieving team of the decade until Tiki Barber jumped ship on his journey towards immortal toolbox status. No, this is the Browns, the reigning underachieving franchise of the decade. An entire region at its beck and call, Midwest and east coast media access, Jim brown as its historical paragon, it competes intra-state with the Bungles, basically has a league mandate to preserve its existence, occupies a taxpayer-built stadium with only one directive: host 10 NFL games a year. Yet they cant get it done.

After firing head coach and former Patriots defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel this offseason, legacy-owner Randy Lerner also ditched general manager Phil Savage, a man who cut his teeth as director of pro personal with the Baltimore Ravens. This seemed appropriate after going 4-12. But as their replacements Lerner hired George Kokanis—he too, former director of pro personal for the Baltimore Ravens—as general manager. Kokanis then hired a losing coach—he too, former Patriots defensive coordinator—who has an axe to grind with, it seems, all humans (especially players) who enjoy life. We’ll give them this: they got out the top of the first round in April, trading the fourth spot for the 21st and ending up with three second round picks. (Derrr, Bill Belichick?) Yet the Brown’s offseason read like a interment camp: this bizarre bus trip where Mangini basically bullied his rookies into a weekend of free services, some kind of social intimidation aimed at Sean Rogers, then Mangini, who must believe that communication technology is a rumor and he’s powerful enough to snuff out player-to-player loyalty, tries to keep a lid on who he’s going to start at QB opening day. This story was of course broken by Terrell Owens via twitter and underscored how totally pointless and contrary to reason the approach was in the first place. If it looks like a tyrant, sounds like a tyrant, and acts like a tyrant …

Peace out, humiliating defensive effors

Mangini wants his team, his guys, the roster he built, he’s willing to lose to make that happen instantly. He’s like a less intelligent Pincers trying to act like Belichick and Bill parcels and Fidel Castro all at the same time. This is why there is hope for Orton this week. Minnesota went into Cleveland Stadium last week and, with Brett Farve as a threat, unleashed 225 yards rushing on 37 attempts (passed 22 times for 85 yards, sacked four times). One of which was probably the sickest highlight run in the NFL since Barry Sanders hung em up. Adrian Petersen is hands freaking down the most entertaining player in the NFL. Peterson is somewhat of an anomaly with which to gauge a defense but we’ve seen this all before. The Cleveland defense is very Shanahan-esque, it’s got that explosion-at-any-second look to it. Takes a trained eye, can spot it a mile away, Denverites have that eye. Plus, as we said, the players don’t care, they hate their coach.

With the Cincy offense, the Lambeau leap is definitely in question

Looks like OchoCinco’s gold plated mouth is writing checks his body can’t cash again.

Captain Orange Chinstrap says IF he scores a touchdown in Green Bay this weekend that he is going to do the “Lambeau Leap,” a touchdown celebration normally reserved for Packer players who jump into the crowd o’cheese heads once they score.

There are certain things in football that should be punishable by a chokeslam.  1) barrel rolling into Tom Brady’s knee (Bernard Pollard) 2) Scoring a touchdown in Dallas and running to midfield and spiking the ball on the giant star (Terrell Owens), unless you’re Randy Moss 3) and opposing players doing the Lambeau Leap in Green Bay…Unless you’re Randy Moss.

Here is to Chad OchoCinco getting earholed by a drunken packer fan or my boy AJ Hawk this weekend.

-CB

What an amazing weekend. The 49ers get a win on the road, the Oregon Ducks get a W, Brett Tomko throws a shutout for the A’s, Tom Brady resumes his place as an NFL God, and my fantasy football teams go 3-0. Could life get any better? I submit that it cannot.

So now that week 1 is over, and every team has taken the field, there is some actual in-season analysis to go along with preseason projection. Mind you, there is a lot of football left to be played, as one game doesn’t make or break a season. As much as a douche-nozzle as he is, I don’t think Jay Cutler is that bad or the Seahawks are that good.

But let’s get it on. On to the rankings (you can see my week one rankings here and here):

32 (Last week 32) – Bengals – Their top pick breaks his foot in his first day of practice; not good. They are shut out in the first three quarters by a team who gave up 28 points per game last season; bad. Carson Palmer, who’s arm is toasted more than Michael Richard’s comedy career, managed to lead the Bengals to a go-ahead touchdown with 0:38 seconds left; promising. But then on a play straight out of NFL films, the Bengals clutch defeat from the jaws of victory, giving up a back-breaking 87-yard touchdown to a white wide receiver. Ouch.

Fantasy update: Cedric Benson – YPC wasn’t good but finished with over 100 total yards and still has a firm grip on the starting job.

31 (31) – 0-1 – Lions – What do ya know, it’s the same old Lions. The running game sucks, the defense sucks, and the hotshot rookie throws for three INTs.  On the bright side, Stafford was only sacked once. Too bad moral victories in the NFL are worth just as much as a poopy-flavored lollipop.

Fantasy update: Calvin Johnson – Despite an inexperienced passer and a non-existent running game, Megatron still got his. He numbers will go up as Stafford improves.

Big weekend for the best white wide receiver in the AFC West. Man, look how gritty he is!

30 (30) – 0-1 – Rams – When you give up more yards in penalties than you gain on the ground, you’re in for a long day. Clearly, Bulger and Jackson can’t do it by themselves. This team is going nowhere; time for the Rams to start looking for a QB of the future.

Fantasy update: James Laurinaitis – If you play in an individual defensive player league, pick this guy up. He is a tackling machine and their only true playmaker on defense.

29 (29) – 0-1 – Browns – Is it just me or does it seem like every single huge game by a running back is against Cleveland. If Willis McGahee played in the AFC North, the Browns run defense could single-handedly revive his career. Oh wait, he already is. Nevermind.

Fantasy update: Braylon Edwards – Just a shove out of bounds away from being fantasy relevant. He will continue to tantalize next week.

28 (27) – 0-1 – Chiefs – Gave up 501 yards of offense to the perennial offensive juggernaut Baltimore Ravens. In other news, Larry Johnson is still awful.

Fantasy update: Larry Johnson – Stay. Away.

27 (26) – 0-1 – Buccaneers – Offense impressed, led by has-been’s Byron Leftwich and Cadillac Williams. Defense torched, by Tony Romo and Roy Williams. Don’t believe in the offense, but I believe in the defense. At least I believe in something.

Fantasy update: Kellen Winslow – Good day for Miami tight ends, well at least two of them. You can do better than 8 yards, Greg Olsen.

26 (28) – 0-1 – Raiders – The running game is for real and the defense looked surprisingly good, holding the Chargers to under 100 yards rushing. But in typical Raider fashion, they choked down the stretch. How has Al Davis not had a heart attack yet?

Fantasy update: Zach Miller – Say hello to Zach Miller, the Raiders only 1,000 yard receiver this season.

25 (16) – 0-1 – Panthers – To put it positively, Jake Delhomme answered a lot of questions about his ability to still play quarterback in the NFL. Unfortunately, the answers weren’t pretty; kind of like watching Rick Fox or 90210’s Jennie Garth on Are You Smarter Than a 5^th Grader this month. Makes you wonder why Carolina didn’t take a flier on Jeff Garcia.

Fantasy update: Jake Delhomme – If he was your sleeper backup QB, don’t kid yourself. You can stick a fork in Jake, he’s done.

24 (23) – 0-1 – Jaguars – Yeah, they only lost by two points at Indy, but man did their offense look pathetic. Wonder if Matt Jones gave David Garrard a discount on the good stuff.

Fantasy update: Maurice Jones-Drew – If Garrard can’t get it together, this could turn into a Steven Jackson-like situation.

23 (22) – 0-1 – Dolphins – Aside from the fact that I just don’t think they are any good, Miami goes from a .465 SOS last year, to the most difficult schedule in the league this year, at .594. I don’t see one game where I can guarantee a Dolphin victory.

Fantasy update: Devon Bess – Had over 550 yards in his rookie season, and has a nice first week grabbing 7 catches. Sleeper

22 (25) – 1-0 – Jets – Mark Sanchez looked good on Sunday. Do it two weeks in a row and then I might start to believe it. Until then, I’m not buying.

Fantasy update: Dustin Keller – He could be someone to keep an eye on. Sanchez might have found a favorite target in his super-athletic tight end.

21 (20) – 1-0 – Broncos – What an inspiring play for white people all around the world.

Fantasy update: Correll Buckhalter – Took advantage of Moreno’s poor day and had a nice 10 touches for 57 yards. Workload may increase.

20 (19) – 0-1- Texans – This is just one of those games where you forget about and move on. Kind of like that night where you had a few too many drinks and hooked up with a girl so ugly your friends don’t even say anything.

Fantasy update: Matt Schaub – I wouldn’t worry about him unless he does it again. Just a really, really bad day for the Texans.

19 (21) – 0-1 – Bills – God is a Patriots fan.

Fantasy update: Fred Jackson – Playing for his future workload. Motivation does crazy things to people.

18 (18) – 0-1 – Redskins – Game really wasn’t as close as the scoreboard suggests, as Campbell hooked up with Cooley for a late TD pass in garbage time. Should lower them just because they made Eli look good.

Fantasy update: Chris Cooley – Even though his TD was in garbage time, I like him as a solid tight end  you can count on week in and week out.

17 (24) – 1-0 – Seahawks – Played against the worst team in the NFC in the one stadium with a true home field advantage. We’ll learn a lot more when they travel to San Francisco next week.

Fantasy update: Julius Jones – Looks like Jones might have found a home in Seattle. Not too worried about Edge.

16 (11) – 0-1 – Bears – ESPN couldn’t have said it better in their power rankings, “The loss to Green Bay was tough. The loss of Brian Urlacher for the season was devastating.”

Fantasy update: Matt Forte – Never really bought into him as a top-5 pick. Be happy if he duplicates his stats from ’08.

You never know what will happen when Shaun Hill drops back for a pass, but hey, that's part of the fun!

15 (17) – 1-0 – 49ers – After getting swept by the Cards in three of the past four years, getting a win in Arizona is a great start for Mike Singletary. San Francisco certainly wasn’t flashy, but they controlled the clock (31:47 TOP) while Shaun Hill and defense stepped up when they were needed.

Fantasy update: Shaun Hill – Will never sell an instructional video on the 7-step drop, but he gets it done. Solid #2 quarterback.

14 (12) – 0-1 – Cardinals – Still have too much firepower to not be competitive in the NFC West. Boldin wasn’t at full-strength and they were without Steve Breaston. But even though Tim Hightower had 12 receptions for 121 yards, Arizona needs to improve the ground  game.

Fantasy update: Tim Hightower – 49ers were leaving the flat open all day. Hightower didn’t just suddenly become Marshall Faulk.

13 (15) – 1-0 – Packers – Made a $20 bet with Alon that the Vikings would finish with more wins than the Packers. You can now add Aaron Rodgers and Greg Jennings to my anti-man crush list.

Fantasy update: Aaron Rodgers – With that being said, I like Rodgers much better than Favre this season.

12 (14) – 1-0 – Saints – Is there anything more fun to watch than Drew Brees playing the Lions? Yes, actually. Watching Drew Brees play the Lions when you have him on two of your three fantasy teams. Dear diary: jackpot.

Fantasy update: Jeremy Shockey – Has Drew Brees found a new red zone target?

11 (9) – 1-0 – Giants – Along with Miami tight ends, I have an unhealthy obsession with Michigan receivers. My hate for Eli Manning was assuaged by the fact Mario Manningham made his first career touchdown.

Fantasy update: Mario Manningham – Is 800 yards and 6 TD’s out of the question?

10 (10) – 1-0 – Cowboys – Who needs T.O.? Romo, Barber, Williams and Witten provide plenty of weapons for Dallas’s potent offense. The defense, though, is a little frightening.

Fantasy update: Tony Romo – Pretty solidly locked in as the #3 QB right now, I’d say.

9 (5) – 0-1 – Titans – Could you really have asked for more going into the defending champion’s house on opening night? Yea, a win would have been nice. (Mandatory argument for a change in the playoff system).

Fantasy update: Kerry Collins – How is he still alive, let alone a decent quarterback in the NFL? Isn’t he like 40, and an alcoholic?

8 (8) – 1-0 – Falcons – All this game proved to me was that Miami is not good. I still need to see more from Matt Ryan to have Atlanta as a legitimate NFC title contender.

Fantasy update:  Michael Turner – I apologize if you bought into the Matthew Berry hype.

7 (13) – 1-0 – Ravens – Joe Flacco is really good. (I’m already at 1,700 words, give me a break).

Fantasy update: Joe Flacco – I have no problem with starting Flacco against a mediocre defense.

6 (3) – 1-0 – Chargers – I think the Raiders are better than what San Diego expected, but what worries me are the injuries to the O-line. The absence of Nick Hardwick and Marcus McNeil could turn LT into Sean Alexander.

Fantasy update: Antonio Gates – Is there a more consistent player in fantasy?

5 (6) – 1-0 – Colts – The Jags always give Indy a good game. Defense was impressive without Bob Sanders, can they keep it up?

Fantasy update: Reggie Wayne – Yeah, he’s pretty good.

4 (7) – 1-0 – Eagles – The McNabb injury hurts, but I love Garcia as an insurance policy. The scheduling Gods are watching over Philly; after playing the Saints in week 2, they’re at home against the Chiefs, a bye, at home against the Bucs and then at Oakland. Even a convicted animal killer could win two of those games.

I'm not 100% sure God is a Pats fan, but I know this guy is.

Fantasy update: Defense/ST – Forced 7 turnovers. Nuff said?

3 (4) – 1-0 – Vikings – I said it: Adrian Peterson for MVP.

Fantasy update: Bernard Berrian – Don’t worry, the  chemistry will come.

2 (2) – 1-0 – Steelers – Has there ever been a defending Super Bowl champ that gets less love than the Steelers?

Fantasy update: Santonio Holmes – Finally emerging as the Steelers #1 WR.

1 (1) – 1-0 – Patriots – It’s so true I’m going to say it again: God is a Patriots fan.

Fantasy update: Pats RB’s – Stay away, you don’t want any of them.

Posted: September 15, 2009

Each Tuesday in the Fall, I will follow-up on my sleeper suggestions for the previous week with a scorecard measuring my success.  Okay, so my first go-round came back with mixed results — if only the Bengals receivers could catch the ball, if only injuries didn’t prevent two-thirds of my receiver choices from playing, if only…  Ah, the Monday (Tuesday) morning (evening) quarterback.  At least all three of my running back picks returned big results!  Here’s how it stacked up in week 1:

QUARTERBACK (1 for 2)

Carson Palmer
Projected: 25-39, 315 yards, 3 TD, 1 Int
Actual: 21-33, 247 yards, 2 Int

Matt Hasselbeck
Projected: 21-31, 275 yards, 2 TD
Actual: 25-36, 279 yards, 3 TD, 2 Int

RUNNING BACK (3 for 3)

Ray Rice
Projected: 21-114 rushing, 4-30 receiving, 1 TD
Actual: 19-108 rushing, 2-12 receiving, 0 TD

Fred Jackson
Projected: 26-106 rushing, 3-22 receiving, 1 receiving TD
Actual: 15-57 rushing, 5-83 receiving, 1 TD

Julius Jones
Projected: 19-94 rushing, 2-15 receiving, 1 TD
Actual: 19-117 rushing, 2-19 receiving, 1 TD

WIDE RECEIVER (0 for 3)

Anthony Gonzalez
Projected: 7-103, 1 TD
Actual: Injured, no receptions.

Kevin Walter
Projected: 6-95, 1 TD
Actual: Inactive

Chris Henry
Projected: 5-93, 1 TD
Actual: 1-18, 0 TD

TIGHT END (1 for 1)

John Carlson
Projected: 5-70, 1 TD
Actual: 6-95, 2 TD

KICKER (0 for 1)

Josh Brown
Projected: 3 FG (1 40+, 1 50+), 1 PAT
Actual: 0 FG, 0 PAT, 1 Missed FGA

DEFENSE (0 for 1)

Houston
Projected: 13 points allowed, 2 sacks, 1 Int, 1 forced fumble
Actual: 24 points allowed, 1 Int

Overall Scorecard for Week 1: (5 for 11)
Overall Scorecard for 2009 Season: (5 for 11)

Notes: Anthony Gonzalez is out “2-6 weeks” with a knee ligament sprain.  Kevin Walter is expected back for Sunday against Tennessee.  St. Louis’ offense is even more dismal than expected, and could manage only 1 field goal attempt Sunday.  Houston’s D has a ways to go.

Analysis of Week 1 in the NFL

Game Break Downs

 Tennessee 10 Pittsburgh 13

The thing that bothers us is that Ben Roethlisberger will never be mentioned in the same sentence as Phillip Rivers and Eli Manning. The two-time Super Bowl champion quarterback is everything you want in a leader – he’s perfect under pressure, not scared of a running clock, and takes hits like a champ. This was a perfect way to start the season, but Pittsburgh proved they haven’t changed since February. The Titans were definitely in the game, but they didn’t get it done. That’s a huge confidence bust to start the season.

Dolphins 7 Falcons 19

You really couldn’t as for more from Matt Ryan and his new favorite target Tony Gonzalez. Atlanta didn’t dominate, but they won, and that’s what they came to do. Miami just couldn’t keep up… their runs were shorter, the defense wasn’t on par, and it’s hard to throw efficiently when your getting sacked. The Falcons did a really good job on both sides of the ball, which is a good sign of things to come in the NFC.

Broncos 12 Bengals 7

Let’s be honest… if it wasn’t for an amazing play for that touchdown at the end of the game, the Broncos wouldn’t have won. It seemed like Kyle Orton was playing catch-up the entire game. He looked slow and confused, and he obviously didn’t fit into the offense the way head coach Josh McDaniels had hoped (and McDaniels let him know that). The only shining star for the Broncos was Brian Dawkins, who apparently didn’t leave his tenacity in Philadelphia. The Bengals didn’t even begin to scratch the surface of their potential. It’s clear to see that both teams have a lot of work to do.

Vikings 34 Browns 20

If Adrian Peterson was alone on the team without blocking, a quarterback, or an offensive line and he would still end up with 100+ yards and the W. He had more yards than the entire Cleveland rushing staff combined. This is all good news for Brett Favre who didn’t play that great, but his game management and the fact that he didn’t throw an interception really helped the Vikings. Brady Quinn was interesting to watch, but he was mediocre at best. The interception and dropped pass (can you say gag reel) really cost them a shot in the game.

Jaguars 12 Colts 14

The Jags played well, but Peyton Manning meant business. Even though Maurice Jones-Drew rushed for 97 yards, Manning threw for over 300 yards and Reggie Wayne made Colts fans forget losing Marvin Harrison when he caught ten balls for 167 yards. The Jags have one offensive weapon – kicker Josh Scobee. Yes, he missed one yesterday, but who do you know that can kick a winner from 63 yards out. He’s the main reason that Jacksonville’s offense will be scoring points in threes.

Lions 27 Saints 45

The Lions put up 27 points, can you believe it? While the big “W” eluded them once again, the Lions made an offensive push that was a step in the right direction. The main problem was Matthew Stafford throwing three picks to a sub-par New Orleans defense, proving that he may not have been ready to play in that opener. Drew Brees hasn’t stopped throwing bullets – could this be the year he breaks Dan Marino’s record? Even though their defense was forgettable, the Saints came to play this season, and obviously they made that game a statement game… but they did play the Lions.

Cowboys 34 Buccaneers 21

Tony Romo doesn’t need Terrell Owens to win. Romo threw for a career high 353 yards (only 5 less than Drew Brees did by the way, and he finished with a better passer rating). Patrick Crayton and Roy Williams anchored the offense, while Marion Barber put up 79 yards. What was more impressive is that, with the exception of Barbers rushing TD, three of Dallas’s touch downs were passes from Romo that were over 40 yards each. The Bucs weren’t impressive, but that’s what the NFC expected. Derrick Ward definitely isn’t the same outside of New York, and Byron Leftwich isn’t an NFL caliber quarterback.

Eagles 38 Panthers 10

The first quarter of this football game suggested Philadelphia was not looking to win. They were confused, the defense wasn’t ready, and the offense couldn’t get a first down. Then, something clicked. Sheldon Brown’s two interceptions were great, but it was apparent that Jake Delhomme was “back in post-season form”, so those interceptions were aplenty. One interesting facet of the game was that Brent Celek, the Eagles tight end, led the team in receptions – a far cry from last year’s problems at that position. Of course, the biggest story is Donovan McNabb’s injury, which created more problems at the QB position and made them sign Jeff Garcia Monday afternoon, because Kevin Kolb really just isn’t who they thought he was.

Chiefs 24 Ravens 38

First game of the season and Baltimore’s defense didn’t show up. Thank God Joe Flacco did. Flacco had help from underrated receiver Mark Clayton and factor back tandem Ray Rice and Willis McGahee, but he threw for 307 yards and three touchdowns all by himself. What was puzzling, and troubling, was the absence of Ray Lewis during the big plays. Could he have, possibly, lost a step?

Jets 24 Houston 7

Mark Sanchez did better than Matthew Stafford on opening day, so leave that comparison at the door. Yes, it was against the Texans, but Thomas Jones had his first 100-yard game and Sanchez seemed to have rhythm with receivers Dustin Keller and Jerricho Cotchery. Bart Scott may not have been overly dominant, but David Harris and Kerry Rhodes were all over the field. Although Brian Cushing’s NFL debut was a good one, Houston QB Matt Schaub finished with a rating of only 55.

Redskins 17 Giants 23

It’s always hard to start the season against a division rival, but New York came out looking good. Any deficiencies in the offense, the defense made up for. Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora combined for 2.5 sacks, and Umenyiora even returned a fumble for a touchdown. Even though the game was close, the Giants looked and felt dominant. What the ‘Skins need to win in this tough division is a quality quarterback because, lets face it, Jason Campbell just isn’t cutting it.

 49ers 20 Cardinals 16

The Niners beat Arizona. It’s true. Listen, we love Mike Singletary don’t get us wrong, but no one could have predicted this. Kurt Warner’s two interceptions were obviously a factor here, but San Francisco shut down Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. Shaun Hill did alright, but he lacked the two interceptions Warner threw. This was a huge confidence booster for the 49ers, who have Seattle next week but a bigger game against Minnesota in week three.

Rams 0 Seahawks 28

Matt Hasselbeck didn’t fare well, but Mark Bulger did much worse. Jim Mora’ debut was a success, and he didn’t make many mistakes when it came to play calling and decision making. Steve Spagnuola, on the other hand, lacked the defensive genius that made him look so good with the Giants. When there was still a chance to be in the game, Spags let 12 men line up, and a too many men call brought back a touchdown. The good news? St. Louis can’t get much worse

Bears 15 Packers 21

Sunday night football really lived up to the hype. Chicago and Green Bay put on a show for America, but if you watched the second half, you would be surprised the Pack didn’t blow out the Bears. Lovie Smith didn’t make many good decisions (A fake punt attempt? Who does that anymore?), and Jay Cutler could only complete a pass to GB’s secondary. Green Bay started their season off right, proving everyone who put them in the “big game” this season right. On the Chicago side of the ball, losing your emotional heart (Brian  Urlacher) doesn’t do much for your chances when your quarterback looks disconnected and uninterested.

Bills 24 Patriots 25

The Pats couldn’t lose this game could they? In the most exciting Monday Night Football game in recent history, Brady showed the world he is back. There was one other thing proven in that game: The Bills will inevitably lose a game all on their own. Trent Edwards played his heart out, and as John Gruden explained, this loss has nothing to do with him. New England turned itself into a the Patriots we all know in the last ten minutes of the game. We have to give T.O props for coming out and making the big plays.

Chargers 24 Raiders 20

 The Raiders haven’t been worth watching in the last five years,  but they were ready for the drama of MNF. In one game, you can see all of the changes head coach Tom Cable has made. JaMarcus Russell looked confident, especially, dare we say, on 4th and 15, but his deficiencies eventually cost the Raiders the game. The Chargers were kind of a disappointment, seeing as they were heavily favored in the game and didn’t really show up. We are especially disappointed in Phillip Rivers, who signed a new contract and wasn’t playing with heart. Richard Seymour lit up the field on defense, which is incredible simply because he’s only been in Oakland two days. Darren Sproles had a big game, but the best part was watching him get pulvarized then get up and go at it again. For a team who was picked to be there in the end, there wasn’t a lot of hitch in their giddy-up.

The Week 1 Round Up

• The loss wasn’t just against Green Bay this week for Chicago. The Bears lost Brian Urlacher, the anchor of their defense and a major emotional leader, to a dislocated wrist. We have to say, this is a major hit for the Bears, who looked like they were already having problems to start with.
• In the wake of Donovan McNabb’s injury, the Eagles found themselves lacking quarterbacks (even though two weeks ago, they had too many). The conversations began, but with AJ Feeley signing with Carolina, the Eagles turned to a familiar face. No, it’s not Kevin Kolb, their much hailed quarterback. They signed Jeff Garcia, who was cut from the Raiders earlier this week, who will presumably be the guy in command if McNabb can’t go to work on Sunday.
• In the first half of the first game of the season, Troy Palomalu was playing out of his mind  before he went down with a knee injury. The MCL injury should keep him out about three games. Other notable injuries came for the New York Giants, when running back Danny Ware dislocated his elbow, and draftee wide receiver sprained his left foot.

The UDU Game Ball goes too…

It’s hard to deny Adrian Peterson a game ball. He’s just too good – already ahead forty yards in the rushing race. His 180 yards and three touchdowns make him the ultimate running back. We decided to give our Week 1 ball to him, but fair warning… he can’t have it every week.

– Corianne Egan and Matt Shanley

How much should Denver fans realistically expect from this man and his football team? Thankfully, McDaniels usually looks more decisive and confident than he does in this picture. Photo Credit: everyjoe.com

September 12, 1:46 PM:

I’m currently stretching in anticipation of the Broncos season opener tomorrow. I pulled my back out this morning, and I now have less than twenty-four hours to make sure my back and arms are limber enough to hoist large objects and lob them at my TV. I’m not necessarily planning to throw anything at my TV, but I must be ready at a moment’s notice to hurl inanimate objects because things could get ugly rather quickly tomorrow.

Yes, I’m a very worried man. I’m worried that I just pulled my back out and I’m only 23 years old. I’m worried that I might break a pricey plasma screen before noon tomorrow. I’m worried that Josh McDaniels might ultimately regret leaving Papa Belichick and Brother Brady, the comforts of Gillette Stadium, and blazing his own trail westward through this sick and twisted world; we all die alone, Josh…we all die alone! And I suppose I’m now worried that I just referenced death a mere 150 words into this column. I haven’t even discussed the Broncos’ playoff chances yet. Things indeed look quite grim at the moment.

September12, 2:33 PM:

You tell me that he doesn't at least make you slightly nervous. Remember, he has a lot of nukes to back up that terrifying gaze...Credit: Time Magazine

Nevertheless, perhaps I should re-evaluate my fears? I’ll always dread heights, flying on small airplanes, sharks, and Vladimir Putin, but enough is enough. I can rationally explain why I remain weary of each entity I just listed (Note: Putin was in the KGB, knows judo, is a despot, and his cold stare haunts my dreams). Yet, upon further reflection, I cannot fully explain why I’m so afraid of watching the 2009 Broncos. I can speculate that the defensive line is porous and raw, the offense is overrated and anemic, and that Kyle Orton’s odious pre-season play will carry over into the regular season. But I cannot confirm any of these suspicions. The truth is no one can, and not just because the Broncos have yet to play a down. Simply put, we do not know enough about the Denver Broncos to declare them a horrendous football team.

The Broncos are a mystery wrapped in an enigma shrouded by vagueness. They are far and away the most puzzling team in the NFL. Every facet of this team is new. The lineup is one enormous question mark. Though it is easy and tempting to hastily write off question marks as flaws, I caution you to avoid doing so. If an NFL team is heading towards a disappointing season, one can usually isolate and identify said team’s specific problems. For instance, this year you could say, “Jamal Lewis is old, used up, and bad,” or “Norv Turner and Wade Phillips are spineless dweebs, who will each serve as President before they can so much as spell ‘playoff win’,” or “Matt Millen spent eight years ‘building’ that franchise.” Trying to identify the Broncos’ specific problems is a futile exercise because we currently know so little about the components of Our Town’s football team.

Does Mr. Putin frighten you now?? Credit: huntersmark.com

September 12, 3:27 PM:

The offseason was turbulent. The regime change at Dove Valley has been tough to swallow, and the Broncos struggled mightily during the pre-season. But pre-season football is meaningless; the Lions went undefeated during the 2008 pre-season. I expect the Broncos to prove that they are a better football team than most expect, especially on defense. Mike Nolan is a brilliant defensive mind; he worked wonders for the Baltimore Ravens as a defensive coordinator between 2001 and 2004.

The Broncos defense possesses an attractive mix of aging wisdom and young, raw talent. Alphonso Smith and Darcel McBath will learn how to play NFL football from Champ Bailey and Brian Dawkins. Could you ask for better teachers? Bailey and Dawkins are not only top-ten players of all-time at their respective positions, but they are also consummate professionals. Josh McDaniels almost certainly considered this when he traded next year’s first-round pick for Smith. (Note: I watched Smith and McBath at training camp. McBath possesses nice size and is a ballhawk, who will likely take some time to adjust to the speed of the NFL. Smith is a legitimate talent. He might not be as great a punt returner as the Broncos expect him to be, but his footwork is fancy and he is freakishly athletic. Smith does not jump. He bounces.)

Alphonso Smith was great at Wake. Now the Broncos need him to step up his game in the wake of this coaching change.

I’m also excited about the Broncos linebackers. Elvis Dumervil will excel in his new position as an end-backer hybrid; he also plays at 200% on every down, which I love. Andra Davis, a savvy veteran, plays hungry football. Remember that Davis recorded twenty tackles in a single game several seasons ago. He is a bargain for the Broncos’ cap and brings an intensity and positive attitude that this team desperately needs. At 30, Davis is playing for financial security, so he will listen to his coaches, execute the game plan, and never take a play off. Additionally, look for Mario Haggan to flourish in blitz packages. Haggan is enormous (a taller version of London Fletcher) and looked great in training camp. The team recently named him a defensive captain for the upcoming season. Super Mario might be my new favorite Bronco.

The defensive line is the Broncos’ most looming question mark not named “Kyle Orton.” Many analysts argue that the Broncos lack necessary star-power up front, and therefore will not mount an effective pass-rush and will struggle to contain the run. Yes, the Broncos do lack proven talent along the front-three. However, who says a star will not emerge from this group? Ron Fields was an All-SEC tackle at Mississippi State and Chris Baker might have been a top-50 draft pick had he not been kicked out Penn State for assaulting two of his classmates. At least we know that Baker will play with some emotion; the last thing the Broncos need is another Jarvis Moss.

Mike Nolan dresses for success...and is a much better defensive coordinator than head coach. I feel quite comfortable with Nolan directing the Denver defense. You should, too. Credit: sportscrackelpop.com

I anticipate that Nolan will rely on his linebackers and hybrid end-backers to rack up sacks, not his front-three defensive linemen. The defensive line will perform inglorious, grunt work while Dumervil, DJ Williams, and Super Mario assault opposing quarterbacks. So, who cares if the Broncos’ front-three lacks star power? All that matters is that the front-three are big, strong, and do not take plays off. Fields and Baker, like so many faces on this defensive unit, are playing for their reputations and future contracts. The defensive line will make mistakes, but I predict the line will always play with enthusiasm and learn quickly from each mental lapse. I mean, these guys have no choice but to perform each Sunday or else they will hit the waiver wire the following week.

The mix of journeymen and prospects on defense, specifically along the defensive line, is indeed a major question mark for the Broncos. But do not write off the unit just yet. The defense will benefit from its lack of proven pro-bowlers. Uncertainty could inspire players to work harder and rise to the moment, leading to increased productivity. For the record, I have much less faith in Kyle Orton’s arm than the Broncos’ revamped and unproven defense. Ok, I’m going to say it: Nolan will have a top-fifteen defense by season’s end.

September 12, 4:19 PM:

Change is often an uncomfortable exercise. As humans (and Broncos fans), we crave and strive for change while simultaneously rejecting its nerve-racking effects. But we can’t have our cake (or coach) and eat it, too. In the words of former British Prime Minister Harold Wilson, “He who rejects change is the architect of decay. The only human institution which rejects progress is the cemetery.” The Broncos had to make a change. They may not be Super Bowl contenders yet, but the organization had slowly decayed for the better part of a decade under the direction of Mike Shanahan. At this point in time, fans obviously cannot confirm that the organization has significantly improved. In the same breath, it is fruitless to convince yourself that the Broncos have regressed since last season.

We don't have to forget what Shanahan accomplished. The late 90s were the best of times. Too bad last year was the worst of times. Fare thee well, Shanny.

It is quite simple. The organization needed a new head coach. Pat Bowlen fired the coach that needed to be let go and hired a new coach. A smart, affordable, and unproven coach at that. Only time can solve the mystery of the 2009 Denver Broncos, so let’s just wait and see how this entire situation plays out. It is acceptable to be upset with and worried about the franchise, but what are you going to do? Not root for the home team? Not watch the games?

If you are particularly livid, perhaps you should hold off on purchasing tickets and traveling to Invesco Field; never invest in a faulty product, such as Kyle Orton. Yet, you should also consider that you and only you lose by fully boycotting the Broncos this season. You’re effectively punishing yourself for decisions that you had no hand in making. Sit back, relax, and at least be thankful that the Broncos have adopted a proactive mentality. The organization boldly displayed that it is willing to risk it all in an effort to avoid mediocrity. As a fan, what more could you ask for? We need to give this team a chance to prove itself before we take the easy way out by turning our backs on the franchise.

Uncertainty defines the 2009 Broncos. The team will live and die by its numerous question marks. But these question marks also reinforce the team’s overall potential, starting with Coach McDaniels. Be rational and keep in mind that the Broncos organization was headed towards the cemetery last January. These offseason moves have temporarily resurrected a dying franchise. Additional moves might be necessary, but allow the present to unfold before abandoning the future.

And how about now?

September 13, 2:15 PM:

Ok, I planned to write a running commentary of today’s game. Unfortunately, I found it too difficult to constantly muster up words to describe the events unfolding in Cincinnati. Referring to the game as “awful” does not say nearly enough about the overall level of play I just witnessed. Boring? Yes, the game was boring, but boring events seldom leave one incensed and shocked. Frustrating? This game was not just frustrating to watch, it was wearisome to tolerate. I’ve never suffered through three hours of football like I did this afternoon. Watching the Broncos offense was like eating mud. The activity did not kill me, but my health did not benefit from the experience and it was hard to keep myself from vomiting. So here are my thoughts on “The Game That Shall Not Be Named”…

Fouts was voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in '93. He will never be voted into the American Broadcasting Hall of Fame because he sucks at broadcasting. Dan, please step down at CBS and stick to your real passions: throwing footballs, golf, and beard growing.

- Dan Fouts is the worst commentator on television…in any sport. Period. His jokes about what NFL players did and looked like during the 60s and 70s were so thoughtless, pitiful, and numerous that I considered muting my TV. I only kept the volume on because Gus Johnson is a golden god.

- Where was Brandon Marshall during that entire game? Hold on, let me rephrase that. Who pressed a scalding iron to Brandon Marshall’s hands on Saturday night thus rendering his fingers and palms useless for today’s game? I know Marshall missed training camp, but he looked totally “checked out” against the Bengals. I’ve never seen such a powerful man expend less energy and roll over as easily as the 6′5″ 250-pound Marshall did in his first game back from suspension. One more performance like today’s dud and it might be fair to claim that Marshall has indeed packed it in for the season.

Maybe Marshall needs a little more time to study the playbook. Yet, you’d think that he spent the bulk of his time away from the team learning the new offense so that he could earn himself a new, lucrative contract? Of course, that assumption is far too rational, considering I am writing about Brandon Marshall.

Marshall might as well have dropped his pants and pooped in the endzone at Paul Brown Stadium, and then followed that up by urinating on the Broncos’ bench. His performance today was that offensive. Furthermore, public defecation would have been more productive and required greater attention to detail than any route he ran or catch he “tried” to make.

- Kyle Orton was brutal. Broken pinky aside, Orton looked indecisive, weak, and confused all day. I understand why McDaniels acquired Orton to replace Cutler. Orton is smart, tall, and allegedly possesses untapped potential. Yet, I worry that Orton is hopelessly average. He therefore remains a poor investment for a franchise that claims to be so devoted to avoiding mediocrity.

After watching Sunday's game, the Coen brothers decided to re-make their 2001 film "The Man Who Wasn't There." The re-make is a silent film called "The Men Who Were Not There. " It stars Marshall and Orton in place of Billy Bob and James Gandolfini, and the plot chronicles the "electrifying" game that occurred in Cincy on Sept 13, 2009. When asked why it is a silent film, Joel Coen replied, "The deafening silence adds to the film's authenticity; the lack of speech makes you feel as though you were actually on the sidelines at Paul Brown Stadium...or watching it on TV in Denver."

Orton lacks the competitive drive that defines all successful NFL players. Think about it. He had the opportunity for four seasons to run away with the keys to the Chicago Bears offense. He never did. His competition was Rex Grossman and (our favorite) Brian Griese. Each time Orton won the starting job he managed to hand it back over to his lowly competition. He does not have “it.”

As far as weak-armed quarterbacks go, I’d much rather have Chad Pennington on my team than Kyle Orton. At least Pennington took losing the starting job in New York personally. He clearly used the Jets’ lack of faith in him as motivation to succeed once he landed in Miami. Maybe Orton is just reserved, but he did not look like a confident player or a leader out there today. This does not bode well for the Broncos’ offense. My mouth still tastes like mud…

- Rey Maualuga has already arrived. He should not have dropped to the second round of the draft. Maualuga and Keith Rivers make the Cincy defense one of the more underrated units in the NFL. I bet Knowshon agrees with me.

- Denver, please remain patient with Knowshon Moreno. He did not look good in his first regular season appearance, but he will move the chains by week ten.

- My faith in the Broncos’ defense remains firm. While the Bengals offense did not perform at an elite level, an NFL defense always deserves credit for holding an opposing offense to one touchdown and 86 rushing yards. Super Mario recorded a sack (num, num, num, num, num!), Champ’s legs looked healthy and fresh as he held Ochocinco in check, and the front-seven constantly harassed Carson Palmer and kept him from ever finding his rhythm.

- I’m a huge Josh McDaniels fan. Say what you will about his stubbornness or his offseason decisions, but this man is an intense competitor. He has a presence and belongs in the NFL. Coaching is his craft and he holds himself accountable for the performance of his players. Watching him berate Orton for taking a sack that pushed the Broncos out of field goal range and forced a punt late in the fourth quarter was the most exciting moment of the game…until the luckiest play in Denver sports history occurred.

McDaniels is also smart, meticulous, and persistent. He rebuked the officials when the game clock was incorrectly set to 20 seconds following the Bengals fourth-quarter touchdown. Moments later the game clock was re-set to 38 seconds, which paved the way for the luckiest play in Denver sports history. McDaniels hates mediocrity, and I bet he is also a sore loser. These are qualities you want to see in an NFL head coach. Plus, I think he and I are technically part of the same generation, which is exciting.

- I’m not a fan of CSI, CSI: Miami, or CSI: New York. The proliferation of primetime crime dramas has officially gotten out of control. If the government can control the H1N1 virus, then they can certainly solve the current crime drama pandemic. This is a real problem that affects all of us.

Sorry, Marvin. I too thought you had this one in the bag. Don't worry, things'll turn around...wait, they probably won't. At least you tried, right?

- I feel sorry for Marvin Lewis. He is not a great head coach and he is not going to win many games this season. He won today’s game, but then he didn’t win today’s game. Bummer, man.

- 1-0 has never felt less good. Recall that Ed Hochuli advanced the Broncos to 2-0 last season. That said, the defense looked solid, and this team could make some noise if Marshall and Orton never ever again play like they did today.

I’m excited for Hood Jr. vs. Hood Jr. when the Broncos play the Browns next weekend. I think the Broncos will build off of today’s improbable victory. Furthermore, there is no way next Sunday’s match-up will play out as unpleasantly as “The Game That Shall Not Be Named.”

Watch it one more time. I’m still completely speechless. I started laughing hysterically when it happened. First of all, thank you, Gus Johnson. Your passionate commentating on this play made the game interesting for the first time since kickoff. Dan Fouts, why did you have to ruin this moment? Please do not answer me out-loud, just think about it. Second, pay attention to McDaniels after Brandon Stokley scores. His intensity is awesome. He doesn’t even celebrate. Rather, McDaniels immediately screams at Orton to go for two. I swear the man is never satisfied, and that is a great thing. Finally, Kyle, I’m sorry, but you actually did nothing right on that play.

September 13, 11:45 PM:

I leave you with a parting treat…trust me, you’ll enjoy it. I will now go to sleep a happy Broncos fan.