A Litter of Steelers Should Make the Pro Bowl

Tuesday night in a show on NFL Network, the league will disclose who has been selected to make the Pro Bowl for both the AFC and the NFC. The Steleers, winners of 11 games and with a win Sunday the #2 seed in the conference and the AFC North Champs, should have a number of players on that roster.

Here’s a look at the players that deserve to be at least in strong consideration for the AFC Pro Bowl this season.

Troy Polamalu, Safety - The heart and soul of the defense, Polamalu has been a huge difference maker, and the Steelers may not be in position to be the #2 seed if it were not for his game-saving play on Joe Flacco against the Ravens a few weeks back. He has 62 tackles, six interceptions and one sack. When he’s healthy, the Steelers D is as good as any in the league. A shoe-in for sure to make the team.

James Harrison, Linebacker - Like him or not, Harrison is another difference maker, and when he’s playing at a high level (which is just about every week), he’s another Steeler defender that is tough to stop. He has 94 tackles, 11 sacks and two interceptions this season, and come the postseason his play will go a long way in determining how far the Steelers go. Will be interesting based on the fines the league has handed him if his peers vote him in.

Mike Wallace, Wide Receiver – The 2nd year wide out has officially taken over as the teams #1 receiver, and his big play ability has been a huge spark to the Steelers offense. He has 53 receptions for 1,152 yards and nine touchdowns, and this season he and Ben Roethlisberger have hooked up for five touchdowns of 40+ yards. He might get overlooked by the players, but trust me, his time to play in this game will come at the latest next season.

Rashard Mendenhall, Running Back – While everyone says the Steelers can’t run and the O-line is crap, all Mendy has done is run for 1,237 yards and 11 touchdowns, and his big games in weeks one and three vs the Falcons and Bucs helped the team while Roethlisberger was suspended. He had a huge game in the OT win over the Bills, and a 99-yard game in the near win over the Jets, a team many don’t have success running against. Another big piece to the playoff puzzle, Mendy deserves a trip to the Pro Bowl.

Maurkice Pouncey, Center – And to think that some in Steeler Nation didn’t like this pick with the 18th overall choice in April’s draft. All Pouncey has done in the past 9 months was push undersized center Justin Hartwig out the door, play every game as the teams starting center without missing much time, and help the team rank 10th in rushing with 121.6 yards per game and a 4.1 yards per carry average. In the mold of Mike Webster and Dirt Dawson, Pouncey is going to be the rock at center for this team for a long time to come barring injury.

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Crowder to fans who boo: ‘We don’t really need you’

A 7-8 record in Miami this season has led to an upset owner (Stephen Ross), a coach on the hot seat (Tony Sparano) and a crowd chanting that the quarterback (Chad Henne) … well, that he just isn’t that good.

The Dolphins have punctuated the downward spiral with a 1-7 home record, the latest loss the result of a fourth-quarter meltdown against the Lions that Yeremiah Bell described as “a total embarrassment.” And the Dolphins were booed on their home field.

On the day after, Channing Crowder supplied us some fuel for the fire, offering up some choice words for fans at Sun Life Stadium who voice their displeasure.

“Like I said, they’re fair-weather fans,” Crowder told reporters. ”You know, cheer when times are going good and boo when times are going bad. We don’t really need you as fans anyway, so it is what it is. You know if they want to get mad and get their point across, but booing a player out their trying his best is, you know, I try not to cuss … but it is what it is.”

As for the head coach, Crowder said the entire team is “100 percent” behind Sparano.

“Like I said before, you got to have a scapegoat,” Crowder said. ”We’re playing, we’re out there on the field, and everybody talking about Tony and Jeff (Ireland), but we’re the ones losing, I guess.  The league is a funny league. But, you know, Tony is a great coach, you know, and I like Jeff as well.

“Whatever they decide to do, I have no control over. But the players are the ones out there on the field losing the games, so we got to tighten up.”

Posted in: Around The Web  

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The Morning After: Don’t count out No. 18

Of all the memorable moments that Week 16 served up on the menu for The Morning Afternoon After … Mike Singletary’s sideline argument with another quarterback, Tom Brady’s interception-less brilliance and Ryan Fitzpatrick’s epic beard … that canny slide by Peyton Manning can’t be ignored.

It should have served as a subtle reminder to never count out No. 18.

Manning may have slid out of MVP consideration behind Tom Terrific and Michael Vick, but as Brian Baldinger pointed out last week, his brilliance has been on display in other ways during a season that hasn’t been exactly typical for the Colts or their quarterback.

Leading 31-26 with 1:39 remaining against the Raiders, Manning took off (sort of) on a naked bootleg, the perfect call. He … um, rumbled … 27 yards before realizing he would be caught from behind by Matt Shaughnessy, and then did what only the most aware of players would do. He slid.

Manning then took a knee on the next two plays in the beloved victory formation.

It didn’t win the game, but The Slide is a microcosm of Manning’s preparation and awareness of situational football. None of it — the call at the line of scrimmage, selling the handoff or his slide — was by accident. In fact, Manning said after the game he called his own number and told no one, so that his teammates would carry out what they thought was the play call.

“My dad (Archie) always told me that’s the best way to do it,” Manning told the Indy Star. “I didn’t decide until … the last minute.”

Collectively, we bag on players and coaches every week for not knowing the current game situation, so kudos to Manning.

Here’s the best part: If you watch closely, you can see Manning can’t help but grin as he looks up at the scoreboard for the replay.

Smart. Even amusing. And typical Manning. Although, clearly he didn’t have himself on his fantasy football team. But it’s only fitting he sealed the win in atypical fashion, putting the Colts on the doorstep of a seventh AFC title in the past eight seasons and tying the NFL record with a ninth consecutive postseason appearance.

Again, typical the Colts are right there in December.

If the Colts reach the playoffs, it’s hard to bet against Manning. Echoing an earlier thought by Warren Sapp, opposing players check the “I don’t want to see him” box next to Manning’s name when it comes to the playoffs.

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Patriots earn home-field advantage in AFC

Published: December 26th, 2010 | Tags: New England Patriots, 2010 playoff picture, AFC East, NFL playoffs

Officially, the AFC playoffs will now go through Foxborough, Mass.

The Patriots needed a victory in Week 16 for the AFC East title and to clinch home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs, and did just that with a 34-3 road win in Buffalo. So not much of a surprise there.

Here’s a look at all of the clinching scenarios in Week 16, and the current playoff picture will be updated here following today’s games.

Posted in: News  

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Benn, Graham out for Bucs

Published: December 26th, 2010 | Tags: Arrelious Benn, Corey Lynch, Earnest Graham, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Week 16 injuries 2010

The Buccaneers lost two key members of the offense to injuries during the first quarter Sunday against the Seahawks. Receiver Arrelious Benn (knee) has been ruled out for the remainder of the game, while fullback Earnest Graham (neck) is questionable to return.

Benn was injured in the second quarter on a 16-yard reception and was later carted off the sideline, according to the FOX game broadcast. It’s believed his injury is serious.

Graham was injured on the following series when he took a hit to the back of the helmet from Aaron Curry. Graham was down on the field for several minutes before eventually leaving under his own power.

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Alamo Bowl: Oklahoma State (10-2) vs. Arizona (7-5)

The Pac-10 finally begins its bowl season on Thursday with Arizona taking on Oklahoma State in the Valero Alamo Bowl.

Here's a look.

WHO TO WATCH: Quarterback Nick Foles needs to come up big for Arizona to notch the upset. Foles led the Pac-10 with 291 yards passing per game this year, and the Wildcats didn't consistently run the ball well. Oklahoma State's defense is OK versus the run, but it's terrible against the pass, ranking 115th in the nation. Further, the Cowboys own one of the nation's most potent offenses with receiver Justin Blackmon, running back Kendall Hunter and quarterback Brandon Weeden. They are going to score points. The question is can Foles and the Wildcats passing attack keep up?

WHAT TO WATCH: And speaking the Wildcats defense, it got gashed late in the season, particularly on the ground. If Hunter can pile up yards in the early going, then it could be a long night for the Wildcats. So Arizona's run defense will need to make a statement against Hunter and company with physical play. Then, if the Cowboys take to the air --their 354 yards per game ranks No. 2 in the nation -- Wildcats ends Brooks Reed and Ricky Elmore will need to pressure Weeden and make him uncomfortable in the pocket. Problem is: The Cowboys do a great job in pass protection, surrendering just 10 sacks this year, which is tied for eighth fewest in the country.

WHY TO WATCH: For one, Pac-10 fans should be eager to see one of their own in a bowl game. Further, this one figures to showcase lots of offense, so it should be entertaining if you enjoy a spinning scoreboard. Arizona is trying to avoid ending its season with a five-game losing streak. Oklahoma State fans are eager to see their Cowboys stick it to Arizona coach Mike Stoops, whom they developed a distaste for when he was Oklahoma's defensive coordinator.

PREDICTION: Arizona would be challenged to keep up the scoring pace with the Cowboys in any event, but they are going to have to throw the ball to win, and it's a big problem that center Colin Baxter, who's started 48 consecutive games, won't be available because of knee surgery. He's the guy making all the line calls for the Wildcats. That's a good reason to expect the Cowboys defense to get at least a couple more stops than the Wildcats. Oklahoma State 44, Arizona 38.

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NFL Lines for Week 17 – January 2nd

1/2 1:00 ET At Kansas City -4 Oakland Off Sorry, I could not read the content fromt this page.

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Instant Analysis: Air Force 14, Ga. Tech 7

Air Force beat Georgia Tech 14-7 in the AdvoCare V100 Independence Bowl on Monday. Here is a quick instant analysis:

How the game was won: This ended up being a defensive struggle. The top two rushing teams in the country were held below their season averages on the ground. Air Force quarterback Tim Jefferson threw more than he normally does, recording his second-highest pass attempts of the season. He did have several costly drops that could have led to scoring opportunities early, but his passing helped Air Force get a field goal just before halftime to close the gap to 7-6. The ultimate difference were turnovers from Georgia Tech. The Yellow Jackets gave the ball away four times, and Air Force finally took advantage when Jared Tew ran up the middle for 3 yards with 13:24 to go in the fourth quarter. Jonathan Warzeka rushed for the 2-point conversion to make it 14-7. Zack Bell missed a 37-yard field goal that would have iced the game, and Air Force had to survive a frantic rally from Georgia Tech that started with 1:48 to go. Jon Davis made the interception with 11 seconds left to seal the game.

Turning point: The third quarter. Georgia Tech lost three fumbles in the quarter, including two from muffed punts by Daniel McKayhan. Air Force failed to take advantage of the first two, but was able to convert the third into the decisive points to win the game.

Player of the game: Air Force may not have had the rushing day it is used to, but the dynamic duo of Jefferson and Tew get the nod here. Interestingly, Jefferson kept the Falcons in the game with his arm by completing 11 of 23 passes for 117 yards. Tew, playing in his first game since breaking his leg against San Diego State on Oct. 16, scored the decisive touchdown.

Unsung hero: How could you not go with Davis, whose interception saved the game for the Falcons.

Best call: Clinging to a 14-7 lead, Air Force got the ball back at its own 9 with 10:57 to play. The Falcons marched down the field, but faced a fourth-and-1 from the Georgia Tech 27 with just under 3 minutes to play. Coach Troy Calhoun had been going for it on fourth down all day, and decided to do it again. Jefferson got the first down. Air Force took more than 9 minutes off the clock, though the drive ended with a missed 37-yard field goal.

What it means: Air Force (9-4) finishes the season with its fourth straight season of eight wins or more, the first time that has happened since 1982-85. The Falcons lose nine starters, including some of its best players -- Tew, cornerback Reggie Rembert and defensive end Rick Ricketts. But Jefferson and Asher Clark return on offense. If this season is any indication, Jefferson is poised to be at his career best in 2011. But will that be enough to compete for a Mountain West title with Boise State joining a lineup that also includes TCU and a resurgent San Diego State?

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Falcons’ White active, Saints’ Ivory out for MNF

Published: December 27th, 2010 | Tags: Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints, Week 16 inactives

Wide receiver Roddy White will be active for the Falcons’ Monday Night Football showdown with the New Orleans Saints.

White, who has started in every game this season for the Falcons, missed Thursday’s practice with a knee injury, but he fully participated in Friday and Saturday’s sessions and will be available for the game that could determine whether or not Atlanta possesses home-field advantage throughout the postseason.

Defensive starters linebacker Curtis Lofton (knee), defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux (shoulder) and defensive end John Abraham (groin) were all listed as questionable but are active.

For the Saints, rookie running back Chris Ivory, who has been bothered by a hamstring injury and was limited in practice this week, has been ruled out.

Full inactives list:

Saints
WR Courtney Roby
S Usama Young
RB Chris Ivory
LB Danny Clark
OT Charles Brown
TE David Thomas
DE Junior Galette
LB Kawika Mitchell

Falcons
J.P. Wilson (No. 3 QB)
DB Dominique Franks
RB Antone Smith
LB Spencer Adkins
OT Garrett Reynolds
OL Mike Johnson
DE Lawrence Sidbury
DT Trey Lewis

The Associated Press contributed to this report

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Sapp: Bucs’ Morris is Coach of the Year

Published: December 27th, 2010 | Tags: Warren Sapp, Bill Belichick, Charles Davis, Lovie Smith, Mike Lombardi, NFL Total Access, Raheem Morris

There’s a lengthy list of head coaches who are deserving to be in the conversation as the NFL’s Coach of the Year. In no particular order: Bill Belichick, Mike Smith, Raheem Morris, Todd Haley, Lovie Smith, Mike McCarthy and Andy Reid are routinely mentioned. No shortage of quality candidates in that list.

When it came to voting time Monday on “NFL Total Access,” the picks from Charles Davis, Michael Lombardi and Warren Sapp were expectedly varied. Davis chose Lovie Smith. Lombardi went with Belichick. And Sapp says the choice is Morris.

“When you look at Morris, you’re talking about going with a second-year quarterback, starting seven rookies, placing eight starters on injured reserve during the course of the year and putting it out there at the beginning of the season the Bucs would get 10 wins,” Sapp said. “Right now they’re sitting at nine wins. That’s the Coach of the Year right there.”

Posted in: NFL Network  

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Monday Nightmare: There is always Tuesday

Published: December 28th, 2010 | Tags: Monday Nightmare, Atlanta Falcons, Drew Brees, Marques Colston, Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Michael Vick, New Orleans Saints, Roddy White

That certainly was some championship performance, Michael Turner. Two points? Against a team that you normally dominate? Not championship material.

The blame should not rest entirely on your shoulders, Michael. You were doomed once the Monday Night Football announcing team started raving about the fact that you never fumble. Everybody got upset with that Jets special-teams coach who formed the wall on the sideline, but announcers jinxing your fantasy team is much more devastating.

And once the Falcons lined up at the 1-yard line, you wish you could get fantasy points for calling ,”Here comes the fumble … which never happens.”

Saints QB Drew Brees was not much better. He notched just under 12 points in your NFL.com basic scoring league. Matt Ryan, Roddy White, Marques Colston: You all are guilty of this, too.

I hope both teams fail to make the playoffs.

Thankfully, there is still one more game that will give us a chance to capture fantasy gold. But if any of the Saints or Falcons failed to deliver for you, then feel free to consider the comment section your therapy couch. You will feel better if you share.

And, who knows? If Michael Vick fails to deliver, I might just join you tomorrow.

Posted in: Fantasy  

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Insight Bowl: Iowa (7-5) vs. Missouri (10-2)

The Big Ten bowl season finally kicks off Tuesday night in the desert, as Iowa faces Missouri for the first time in a century.

Here's a quick preview of the Insight Bowl matchup:

WHO TO WATCH: Iowa defensive end Adrian Clayborn. The senior didn't have the dominant season many expected when he passed up a likely first-round selection in the NFL draft to return to school. But Clayborn certainly has the ability to step up in the spotlight. He proved it in the 2010 Orange Bowl, recording nine tackles and two sacks against Georgia Tech en route to winning game MVP honors. Iowa is short-handed on offense and needs a huge game from Clayborn and a veteran defensive line. Clayborn's ability to pressure Missouri senior quarterback Blaine Gabbert will play a major role in deciding the game.

WHAT TO WATCH: Iowa's short-handed offense. The Hawkeyes will play without record-setting receiver Derrell Johnson-Koulianos and leading rusher Adam Robinson, both of whom are suspended. Given Iowa's end-of-season slide in production, the personnel losses could be especially damaging. This is a huge moment for senior quarterback Ricky Stanzi. He has improved in every statistical category, but his late-game mojo seems to have disappeared. If Stanzi can regain his magic and receive good protection against Missouri's talented defensive ends, he could do some damage.

WHY TO WATCH: The Hawkeyes' response from a rough patch both on and off the field will be fascinating. Iowa dropped its final three regular-season games and then endured the DJK mess and the suspension of Robinson. How will the Hawkeyes respond? They need their seniors on both sides of the ball to display strong leadership, particularly late in the game after blowing fourth-quarter leads in four of five regular-season losses. As disappointing as the season has been, Iowa still can win a third consecutive bowl game for the first time in team history.

PREDICTION: Iowa 21, Missouri 20. Bowl games have brought out the best in Iowa the past two seasons, and despite all the turmoil, I think the Hawkeyes' seniors will put together a good performance. The defensive line harasses Gabbert and forces several miscues, and Stanzi makes enough plays in the passing game to keep Iowa close. After so many close losses, Iowa finds a way to win a nailbiter.

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Military Bowl presented by Northrop Grumman: Maryland (8-4) vs. East Carolina (6-6)

East Carolina has made five straight bowl appearances but has only one win to show for its previous four. The Pirates face a big challenge against Maryland on Wednesday in the Military Bowl presented by Northrop Grumman, especially considering they ended the season with losses in four of their last five games because their defense fell apart. Still, making a bowl game is a good accomplishment for first-year coach Ruffin McNeill, who inherited a team that returned just eight starters.

WHO TO WATCH: East Carolina quarterback Dominique Davis. He came in as a junior college transfer after playing his first season at Boston College and is one of the biggest reasons East Carolina is in a bowl game. His Hail Mary touchdown pass with no time left in the season-opener against Tulsa essentially put the Pirates in this game. He already has established new school single-season records for attempts (552), completions (358), passing yardage (3,699) and touchdown passes, 36) and ranks No. 1 in the country in completions per game and points responsible for per game; fourth in passing yards per game and total passing yards (3,699); and sixth in total offense per game. Davis has thrived in the spread option, even though he had to sit out spring practice.

WHAT TO WATCH: East Carolina's defense. OK, there has not been much to watch this season with a defense that has been a sieve, ranking last in the nation in total D. East Carolina has had to outscore people to win all season long, but with extra time to prepare, perhaps the Pirates will be up to the task. This is the same Pirates team that beat NC State this season and held the Wolfpack to 27 points. One of the biggest matchups to watch is Maryland receiver Torrey Smith against Pirates cornerbacks Emanuel Davis and Travis Simmons.

WHY TO WATCH: The chances for an offensive back-and-forth are great, and who doesn’t like a little bit of an offensive showdown every once in a while. The Pirates have had some heart-stopping wins this year – the Hail Mary victory aganist Tulsa and the overtime win against NC State, and a one-point win against Southern Miss. You can’t accuse the Pirates of being boring to watch.

PREDICTION: Maryland 45, East Carolina 40. The Pirates have given up 54.8 points per game in their past five and are going to have a tough time slowing the Terrapins down. Expect an inspired Maryland team to be playing for coach Ralph Friedgen, in his final game at Maryland.

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Got Gronk?

Published: December 27th, 2010 | Tags: Gronk Nation, Chris Gronkowski, Dallas Cowboys, Dan Gronkowski, Denver Broncos, New England Patriots, Rob Gronkowski

Looking for a place to celebrate Rob Gronkowski‘s two touchdown receptions from Sunday’s 34-3 Patriots thumping of the Bills? Did these two touchdowns perhaps mean the difference in your fantasy league championship? Look no further. Go to Gronk Nation and get “Gronked.”

There are five Gronkowski boys, four playing football — three of them in the NFL. Rob, New England’s first-round draft pick, is one of two NFL tight ends in the family. Dan Gronkowski, however, is currently on IR for the Denver Broncos. Chris Gronkowski plays fullback for the Dallas Cowboys. The fourth football-playing Gronkowski plays at Kansas State.

We asked Chris Gronkowski about Gronk Nation and what it meant to get “Gronked.”

“‘Gronk yourself’ means to get hyped, get jacked, get pumped up. Doing anything to the extreme,” Chris informed us.  Gronk Nation is a website where you can find out all kinds of information about the three NFL Gronkowskis.

Chris told us that Dan works on the site the most, taking Gronk Nation to the next level of extreme now that he has a little more time on injured reserve. “The site will be going into a different format with a lot more to offer in the upcoming weeks,” Chris said. Gronk Nation is not your average player site. Check it out at gronknation.com.

Posted in: Sidelines  

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UConn Huskies believe they belong

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Connecticut, humbly, would like a moment of your time, if you can spare it. You see, the Huskies know what you think about them. They know what the pundits are telling you. They know that much of the College Football Nation doesn't believe they belong in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl opposite a program of Oklahoma's stature. They, again humbly, beg to differ. And perhaps you can find a spot in your heart to see their merits and recognize the charms of their story.

First of all, they are fully aware of their circumstances. UConn was not ranked in the final BCS standings. It will be the first team unranked in the final BCS standings to play in a BCS bowl game. The lowest ranked team playing in any other BCS bowl game this year is No. 13 Virginia Tech.

[+] Enlarge Elsa/Getty ImagesDespite their 8-4 record, the Huskies know they deserve to play in the Fiesta Bowl.The Huskies finished 8-4 overall. Every other BCS bowl team won at least 10 games. They lost to Temple 30-16. On Oct. 23, they fell to 3-4 after suffering a 26-zip whipping at Louisville. It's no secret that the only reason they are here is because they won the tiebreaker over West Virginia atop the struggling Big East.

And if they weren't fully aware of this, everyone has told them about it -- over and over and over again -- just about every day since they tried to celebrate their Fiesta Bowl berth.

"I'm tired of hearing it," Huskies linebacker Scott Lutrus said. "I've heard it so much. We started hearing it on selection day. But I understand it, where people are coming from. We're an 8-4 team, not even ranked, going to a BCS bowl game. But we earned it. We deserve it. We won our conference."

UConn played by the rules of the BCS system. It's the champion of a BCS automatic qualifying conference. If we are to believe the winner of the BCS championship games -- past, present and future -- are "true" national champions, then we also must believe that UConn deserves to be in sunny Arizona where it can enjoy the notoriously over-the-top hospitality of the Fiesta Bowl.

If you want to get mad, get mad at the BCS system. But when you finish with that, take a moment to consider the possibility that UConn might be worth embracing.

Start with this quote from Huskies coach Randy Edsall, "To me, this is a dream come true." Edsall, who looks a bit like a Marine drill sergeant, later added -- not sounding much like a Marine at all -- "You know, sometimes you pinch yourself."

How many coaches talk like that? Even better is that it's true. Edsall is the architect -- mother, really -- of an extraordinary program construction project. His Huskies jumped up from I-AA football and played their first season of FBS football in 2002. According to this calculator, that's just eight years ago. By way of comparison, the Sooners have seven national titles. UConn played its first Big East game in 2004. It recorded its first victory over a ranked team in 2007.

Paging Horatio Alger: How can you not respect that?

UConn didn't become competitive because it landed a bunch of high-profile recruits, either. The Huskies rank at or near the bottom of the Big East recruiting rankings most years, which means their signing classes rank at or near the bottom among AQ conference teams most years.

America's team? Huskies hail from 17 states, and three are from Canada.

And about that embarrassing 3-4 start. It was followed by a five-game winning streak to conclude the season, with three wins by a combined eight points, including a 16-13 overtime triumph over West Virginia. Shouldn't that resurrection be celebrated? The Huskies could have waved a white flag on their season. Instead, they persevered and grew.

Further, while many teams that make fast climbs in national stature often get there with high-flying passing attacks, the Huskies have taken a blue collar route. They rank 112th in the nation in passing. They run right at you. If you stop that, they run some more. This is a physical team that's unquestioned strength lies with a veteran offensive line -- 75 career starts among them -- and a running back, Jordan Todman, who fights and claws for every yard against defenses that know he's coming.

Finally, this program has arrived at this point 14 months removed from an unimaginable tragedy: Cornerback Jasper Howard, just before he became a father, was stabbed to death on-campus in October of 2009.

"We think about him every single day," defensive tackle Kendall Reyes said. "He's a big part of where we are now. He's still with us."

Don't belong? Connecticut players busted their butts during offseason and summer workouts and preseason camp. They played through injuries. They fought through adversity. They found ways to win.

And when all the sweat was wiped away, the Fiesta Bowl handed them an invitation.

Perhaps if you take time to get to know UConn, you will grow to respect them and see that they belong.

And if you don't, well, then you can suck on a lemon.

"I know the question is out there," Reyes said. "But we deserve to be here. That's the rules. But I'm not concerned with that. We have a game to win. Honestly, I really don't care."

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Instant analysis: Air Force 14, Ga. Tech 7

Air Force beat Georgia Tech 14-7 in the AdvoCare V100 Independence Bowl on Monday. Here is a quick instant analysis:

How the game was won: This ended up being a defensive struggle. The top two rushing teams in the country were held below their season averages on the ground. Air Force quarterback Tim Jefferson threw more than he normally does, recording his second-highest pass attempts of the season. He did have several costly drops that could have led to scoring opportunities early, but his passing helped Air Force get a field goal just before halftime to close the gap to 7-6. The ultimate difference were turnovers from Georgia Tech. The Yellow Jackets gave the ball away four times, and Air Force finally took advantage when Jared Tew ran up the middle for 3 yards with 13:24 to go in the fourth quarter. Jonathan Warzeka rushed for the 2-point conversion to make it 14-7. Zack Bell missed a 37-yard field goal that would have iced the game, and Air Force had to survive a frantic rally from Georgia Tech that started with 1:48 to go. Jon Davis made the interception with 11 seconds left to seal the game.

Turning point: The third quarter. Georgia Tech lost three fumbles in the quarter, including two from muffed punts by Daniel McKayhan. Air Force failed to take advantage of the first two, but was able to convert the third into the decisive points to win the game.

Player of the game: Air Force may not have had the rushing day it is used to, but the dynamic duo of Jefferson and Tew get the nod here. Interestingly, Jefferson kept the Falcons in the game with his arm by completing 11 of 23 passes for 117 yards. Tew, playing in his first game since breaking his leg against San Diego State on Oct. 16, scored the decisive touchdown.

Unsung hero: How could you not go with Davis, whose interception saved the game for the Falcons.

Best call: Clinging to a 14-7 lead, Air Force got the ball back at its own 9 with 10:57 to play. The Falcons marched down the field, but faced a fourth-and-1 from the Georgia Tech 27 with just under 3 minutes to play. Coach Troy Calhoun had been going for it on fourth down all day, and decided to do it again. Jefferson got the first down. Air Force took more than 9 minutes off the clock, though the drive ended with a missed 37-yard field goal.

What it means: Air Force (9-4) finishes the season with its fourth straight season of eight wins or more, the first time that has happened since 1982-85. The Falcons lose nine starters, including some of its best players -- Tew, cornerback Reggie Rembert and defensive end Rick Ricketts. But Jefferson and Asher Clark return on offense. If this season is any indication, Jefferson is poised to be at his career best in 2011. But will that be enough to compete for a Mountain West title with Boise State joining a lineup that also includes TCU and a resurgent San Diego State?

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Week 16 notable nuggets

The playoff picture began to take form in Week 16, as the Patriots clinched home-field advantage, the Chiefs clinched the AFC West, the Jets and Ravens secured playoff spots and the Eagles won the NFC East.

And now a look at some of the most notable numbers, ongoing streaks and best performances from around the league, with assists from the NFL Network research desk and the folks in the NFL communications office:

Patriots 34, Bills 3

Tom Terrific: Tom Brady set an NFL record by completing his 319th consecutive pass without an interception, passing Bernie Kosar (308 in 1990-91). Brady has 24 TDs and 0 INT his last 10 games. Brady also extended his current NFL-record streak to eight consecutive games with at least two touchdown passes and no interceptions.

Rob Gronkowski had two more TDs this week and now has nine this season, tying him for second-most among rookie TEs in NFL history. He only trails some guy named Mike Ditka (12 in 1961).

The Patriots have won 15 straight games against the Bills, tied for the fourth-longest win streak in NFL history by one team against another.

Bears 38, Jets 34

The Bears scored 38-plus points in back-to-back games for first time since 1989.

The Jets’ streak of 21 consecutive games without allowing a 100-yard rusher ended as Matt Forte finished with 113 yards on 19 rushes.

Forte finished with 169 yards from scrimmage, becoming the first player in franchise history with at least 1,400 yards from scrimmage in each of his first three NFL seasons.

Redskins 20, Jaguars 17 (OT)

Is it positive or negative that the Redskins’ three overtime wins this season (they’re 3-1) ties them for NFL single-season record? The 1983 Packers played in five overtime games, the NFL single-season mark. Overtime began in 1974.

Chiefs 34, Titans 14

Kerry Collins now has 40,141 career pass yards, the 12th player in NFL history to reach 40,000 yards.

Lions 34, Dolphins 27

The Lions, who had two wins the last two seasons, have won three straight games for the first time since 2007.  The Lions have now won back-to-back road games in same season for first time since 2004 under head coach Steve Mariucci. The Lions set the dubious mark of losing an NFL-record 26 straight road games, which ended last week.

Rams 25, 49ers 17

Sam Bradford improved to 7-8 as starter, the most wins by rookie QB drafted No. 1 overall since 1970. Bradford now has 335 completions this season, breaking Peyton Manning’s NFL rookie record of 326 in 1998.

Ravens 20, Browns 10

Ed Reed had two interceptions, his 10th career two-INT game and second this season. Reed now has 52 career INTs, which is tied for 24th all-time, one behind Deion Sanders and Ty Law, and second among active players behind Darren Sharper (63).

Packers 45, Giants 17

Aaron Rodgers went for a career-high 404 yards and four touchdowns against the Giants, and since becoming the starter in 2008, has passed for 12,165 yards to join Kurt Warner (12,612) and Peyton Manning (12,287) as the only quarterbacks in NFL history to pass for at least 12,000 yards in the first three seasons as a starting quarterback.

Broncos 24, Texans 23

Arian Foster has 2,030 yards from scrimmage this season, joining Priest Holmes (three times, 2001-03) as the only undrafted players in NFL history to record at least 2,000 yards from scrimmage yards in a season.

Posted in: NFL Network  

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Panthers secure top pick in 2011 NFL Draft

Published: December 27th, 2010 | Tags: Carolina Panthers, 2011 NFL Draft

The Carolina Panthers are now on the clock.

The Panthers lost to the Steelers in Week 16, but gained something else due to wins by the Browns and Bengals: The No. 1 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft.

The Panthers have had the No. 1 overall pick one other time — in their expansion year of 1995 — but traded it away to the Bengals, who drafted RB Ki-Jana Carter. The Panthers acquired first- and second-round picks from the Bengals and drafted QB Kerry Collins with the fifth overall pick and DE Shawn King with the 36th overall pick in the same draft.

More …

Posted in: Draft  

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The Good and Bad in the Bears Win Over the Jets Sunday

James Belushi was everywhere Sunday

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to break down the good and the bad from Sunday’s 38-34 win over the Jets. Hell, even the ‘other Belushi’ could tell you what’s working and what’s not. And he should know, considering he enjoyed field-level viewing during the game.

The Good:

1) Offensive Line Part 1: Picture perfect pocket on Cutler’s three 3rd-quarter TD tosses.

There’s no glory in being an offensive lineman. The only time their name is called is when they screw up. But let’s give the Bears big uglies some props when they’re due: Omiyale, Williams, Kreutz, Garza and Webb only allowed only 2 sacks against an aggressive defense, and one of those came on a play when Jay Cutler had time to throw, but his receivers were covered.

When CBS’s cameras paused the replay of each of Cutler three touchdown passes, it didn’t take a football mastermind to notice the perfectly formed U-shaped fortress that protected Cutler.

2) Offensive Line Part 2: Plenty of running room for Forte.

Matt Forte averaged almost 6 yards per carry. More impressively, the Bears were only the 2nd opposing team in Rex Ryan’s 2-year tenure as Jets coach to have a 100-yard rusher. Maurice Jones-Drew was the other for Jax last year.

If the NFL had an award for assistant of the year, O-line coach Mike Tice should be the unanimous winner considering the in-season renovation project he’s led with a rag-tag bunch of big uglies.

3) Devin Hester.

There are no more superlatives left to describe #23.

First, his 38-yard punt return set up his own TD catch three plays later. Then a 40-yard kick return set up a Cutler-to-Knox TD.

Even when he doesn’t touch the ball, teams are so scared shitless of kicking to him that the Bears usually benefit from field position starting around their 40 yard line.

Runner Up: James Belushi’s contagious sideline enthusiasm.

When they weren’t replaying Cutler’s TD bombs, CBS cameras were focused on James Belushi and some other dude celebrating the Bears offensive explosion down on the sideline. Not surprisingly, Belushi and his sidekick ‘star’ in a cop show on the network’s primetime lineup.

While there were obvious alterior motives on the network’s part, it was cool to see a B-list celeb displaying genuine excitement about his hometown team.

The Bad:

1) Where’s the defense?

Where should we start on defense?

Oh yeah, like Lovie always says, it starts up front.

I thought going into the game the Jets offensive line was the second best the Bears have seen this year, next to the Patriots. And the way they corralled Julius Peppers and crew, they proved me right.

Mark Sanchez, like Tom Brady two weeks before him, benefited from great protection and threw the ball at will against the Bears.

The result was 269 passing yards, a 65% completion percentage and 50% conversion on third downs. Throw in 124 rushing yards (4.1 per carry) and you have all the ingredients for an offensive mauling.

With their soft coverage in the secondary, the Bears MUST get pressure from the front 4 consistently if they want to make a run in the playoffs.

2) Cover 2 exposed

There was one play in particular that exposed the occasional flaw in Lovie’s Cover 2.

On their third quarter touchdown that tied the score at 31, Mark Sanchez hit a wide-open Santonio Holmes. Holmes ran free because Bears safety Danieal Manning, who’s responsible for covering the deep half of his side of the field, left his area to cover TE Dustin Keller, who was running wide open on an underneath crossing route.

Tim Jennings – the corner assigned to cover Holmes – thought he had deep help from Manning, so he let the receiver run by him. But with Manning running up to help on the TE, Holmes had free sailing into the end zone.

In 2 of the last 3 games, the Bears Cover 2 defense has been exposed by patient offenses that were more than happy to take what the Bears coverage offered them. The Patriots scored 30 points (remember 6 of the Pats points came on a fumble return) and the conservative Jets put up a 27 (7 of the 34 points came on their INT return).

If this defense doesn’t get sacks and turnovers, teams can and will move the ball against the Bears. And Sanchez just proved that it doesn’t take an All-Pro QB to beat them.

3) Robbie Gould.

This will be the only time Mr. Automatic makes this naughty list.

The Bears usually dependable kicker shanked what is an automatic kick for him. He misjudged the wind and his 35-yarder sailed wide right. It was his first miss inside 40 yards in an amazing 64 attempts.

Perhaps Jerry Angelo should bring in a castoff kicker to compete with Robbie this week in practice.

Or maybe he just needs a Belushi pick-me-up…

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Let’s Go Primetime: Week 16

Published: December 27th, 2010 | Tags: Let's Go Primetime, Deion Sanders, NFL GameDay

Deion Sanders gives us his weekly countdown of the top 10 performances from the corner of 21st & Prime. Tim Tebow made the list, but it was Carson Palmer, Aaron Rodgers and Josh Freeman who held the top three spots.

Posted in: NFL Network  

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Packers: Flynn In, Rodgers Out

Sorry, I could not read the content fromt this page.

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Vikings Brett Favre Acts Like Another Guy With A White Beard

While many youngsters await the annual return of Santa Claus, Vikings quarterback Brett Favre and his “little helper” Deanna Favre made a heartwarming gesture to help celebrate the holiday season this December.

The Favre’s invited a number of families in need to Winter Park on December 14th for an early Christmas party, making sure they left the training facility weighed down by generous food baskets and many Christmas presents.

The Favre family also donated $60,000 to the Salvation Army.  The donation will be used to provide food baskets to 2,000 other families this year.

“God has blessed us in so many ways, so it’s in our nature to give back,” Brett Favre said.

“Brett and I didn’t have a lot growing up,” added Deanna Favre. “We always feel that we need to reach out to the community, to help give back to all the people who give us so much. We feel like The Salvation Army is the perfect way. They are an organization that takes care of families who are working and trying to make ends meet.”

While I have been openly critical of Favre on this site for years now, it is important to note that this is an extremely generous donation that couldn’t come at a better time.  The Twin Cities Salvation Army has received assistance requests from 1,000 more families than they did last year, but have seen a decrease in donations to the tune of $420,000.

If you are interested in following the Favres’ lead on this one, you can see details about donating to the Salvation Army by clicking here.

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Forty-Niners Now Need Help From Others to Save Playoff Hopes

Thursday night was not a good night for the Niners, and because of it, the team needs quite a bit of help if they are going to be playing past January 2nd.

If Seattle and St. Louis both win this weekend, the Niners’ slim playoff hopes are officially gone. Because, the Seahawks and Rams face off in the final game of the season in Seattle—which means one of them would wind up with eight victories and the division title in the awful NFC West.

Even if San Francisco (5-9) wins at St. Louis and home against Arizona on Jan. 2, it might not be enough. The 49ers need help.

And, after an embarrassing 34-7 loss at San Diego on Thursday night, coach Mike Singletary is contemplating yet another quarterback switch from Alex Smith back to Troy Smith. Sounds like at this point, even Singletary knows that the season is lost, and is grasping at straws just to try to save the season.

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SGN Speaks with HOF Cowboys RB Tony Dorsett

This morning I had the privilege to connect with Hall of Famer and former Dallas Cowboys running-back Tony Dorsett.  Here is what Tony is up to and some of his thoughts on the 2010 Dallas Cowboys:

Cowboysgab:  Can you describe the Proctor & Gamble “Take It To The House” program and your involvement with it?

Tony Dorsett: The Proctor & Gamble “Take It To The House Program” is a program I got involved with and it is a photo contest where fans can send in a photo of what the NFL is like at their house on Sundays.  There are eight winners throughout the season. The winners of this campaign will get a visit by a “legendary” NFL player, they will get a $10,000.00 donation made to an organization in their community to support the NFL Play 60 program, which encourages kids to get at least 60 minutes of exercise a day.  The winner will also have a chance to win a trip to Hawaii and a chance to be at the Pro Bowl and will also get a few Proctor & Gamble products.

CG:  You have done a fair amount of things in the community.  How important is it for you to be out in the community working with programs that benefit others, especially kids?

TD: I love to give back to the community when it involves kids.  Our youth of today are growing up in a different world.  It seems like there are more things out there then when I was growing up. Those things can get kids going down the wrong track, so, anytime I can encourage a kid to do something positive I’m more than willing to loan my time, my name, and in some cases, my money to the effort.

CG:  Coming into this season, the Cowboys were favorites to play in the Super Bowl they are hosting, what did you think of this team before the season started and what do you think went wrong?

TD: I was like most of the “experts” out there.  I thought the Cowboys were going to be in the mix this year.  I’m not sure that I thought they would be the first team to host a Super Bowl, but I did think they would be contending for it.  I don’t know what went wrong or how this thing got derailed.  I’m not sure if they started believing the hype or what, but these guys just weren’t playing up to their potential, they weren’t being held accountable, and this thing started slipping and then starting going down a slippery slope and they needed some stability.

Now Jason Garrett is there and he is doing one heck of a job.  The players are being held accountable to the little things and they are playing with pride.  It seems that some of the leaders are stepping up and bringing the leadership and it is clicking right now.  It just goes to show you that you can have all the talent in the world but if you are not playing with the right effort, the right chemistry, it doesn’t mean anything.

Now, they have kind of got it back on track, but, unfortunately it is too late.

CG:  You mentioned it a little already but, now that Wade Phillips is out and Jason Garrett has taken over on an interim basis, have you seen something in particular that has been impressive about Jason Garrett’s ability to come in and do the job?

TD: I’m a real stickler about the little things.  The little things make big things happen, wether it is in relationships, business, and sports.  You’ve got to do the little things, you’ve got to do the little things at practice.  They’re practicing now.  They’re putting pads on.  You’ve got to practice how you play.  There are some things that will never change in sports and you’re going to get out of it what you put into it.  Regardless of what level it is.  Regardless of who you are.  If you’re not gonna use it you’ll lose it.  Now they are practicing and being held accountable.  They are having some pride and it all comes into play.

Before when Wade was there, he would get on and make excuses for why these guys aren’t doing their job.  You need to tell them if you don’t do this I’m going to find someone who will.  Guys have to have a little bit of fear in this scenario too.  You can’t be running around giving excuses for why they aren’t doing their job, it doesn’t make sense to me.  They get paid too much money not to do their job and they need to understand that if they don’t do their job, the coach will find someone who will.

It seems like, under Garrett, guys are being held accountable and it is running like a proffesional organization should run.

CG:  With all the talk about next year’s head coach there are a lot of opinions as to who should be the next head coach of the Cowboys.  Who would you like to see on the sidelines next year?

TD: You got Bill Cowher, you got “Chucky” (Jon Gruden), but right now, I think it is Jason’s job.  I mean, you have to go through the process of interviewing that the NFL has laid out for hiring someone.  But, these guys are responding to Jason, and he has done a great job.  Jason has been there and done it.  He was here with Jimmy Johnson.  He’s a champion, a winner and a smart guy, he’s putting the time in and these guys are responding to him.  I don’t see why it wouldn’t be Jason Garrett as the head coach.  From my vantage point, I would be surprised if it is not.

CG: You played running back with the Cowboys for 11 seasons.  There has been a lot said about the Cowboys situation at running back this season, particularly in the last few weeks, what do you think about the running backs the Cowboys have and how they are being utilized?

TD: I don’t like it.  Never have, and never will.  Because I’ve played that position, and myself personally, I want to be in the whole game.  I want to see how defenses are responding to different formations.  I want to get into a groove.  It is hard to get into a rhythm when you’re coming in and out of the game.

The Cowboys seem to be having somewhat of a success doing it.  But, I bet if you asked these guys, and they were honest, they would say that they would rather be in the game getting 20-25 touches a game, getting a good feel for the game instead of standing on the sidelines and watching the game.  It is a whole different deal watching from the sidelines.

CG:  What do you think about the situation with Tashard Choice getting Michael Vick’s autograph after the game against the Eagles?  Do you think it is a big deal?

TD: No, I really don’t.  It is after the game and he wanted to get it for a relative.  There was an opportunity, the timing probably could have been a little different, but I don’t have a problem with it.

CG:  The Cowboys host their hated-rival Redskins this Sunday.  You are no stranger to this rivalry, do you have a most memorable moment that you experienced against Washington in your career?

TD: I tell you we played those guys quite a bit.  When I came into the league everything changed during Redskins week.  The concentration effort, the seriousness of the front office, coaches, and players were more intense.  There was a lot of dislike for those guys.  Preparation was at it’s best and everyone was on top of everything because we couldn’t wait to get to game day and beat up on them a little bit.  It was really intense.

I remember one Thanksgiving against those guys and a situation with Harvey Martin.  After the game, someone had sent him a funeral wreath.  He took that wreath and walked down the the Redskins locker room, opened the door and just threw that wreath in and left.  I can never forget the response of coach Landry.  Coach Landry was so upset.  It just goes to show you the intensity of the rivalry and that we just didn’t like each other.

Back then the opponents stayed the same.  We didn’t have free agency and so you played together against the same guys for years and years.  It made for good drama and good confrontations and I’m sure the fans enjoyed it.

CG:  You played in the NFL for 12 season from 1977-1989, in your opinion what has changed about the NFL from then until now?

TD: I think attitudes have changed.  I kind of experienced the evolution of football from the size standpoint.  When I came into the league a big linebacker was 220-235 lbs., now they’re 250.  Same with lineman, when I came in they were 275 lbs., and when I left they were over 300 lbs.  The game has gotten bigger, obviously the collisions are a little more physical.

But, I really think attitudes are different.  It is a privilege to play in the NFL.  I think these guys take it a little differently, not everyone.  But some don’t respect the game as much as we did back then.  You’ve got guys now that won’t play hurt.  I’m not saying that you put your career or life in jeopardy, but if I could walk, I was playing, that’s just the way it was.  I’ve heard guys with my own ears say, “if I could make it another few years I’ll be set for life,” granted they could be with the money their making.  They get a hangnail and they don’t want to go out there and jeopardize their situation from a financial standpoint.

But, I love the game.  The game is still a great game, a wonderful game.  I love watching it.

CG: Finally, do you have a prediction for who meets in the Super Bowl this year, and who comes out on top?

TD: Oh man, I don’t know who it is gonna be.  I think in the AFC, probably New England.  But I don’t know who will represent the NFC.

To find out more about the Proctor & Gamble “Take It To The House” Program visit their facebook website here.

Cowboysgab.com would like to thank Tony Dorsett for the opportunity to speak with him and wishes him and the “Take It To The House” Program much success.

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5 Most Memorable Games of the Last 25 Years Between the Bears and Vikings

With all the subplots focused on everything but the game itself, this Bears-Vikings Monday Night matchup could be remembered around these parts for a long time…especially if the Bears are able to clinch the North on the Vikings’ (backup) home field.

Here’s a look at the 5 most memorable Bears-Vikings games over the last 25 years.

5) 2006 – Good Rex leads late TD drive to catapult Super Season.

The Bears entered the 3rd game of the 2006 season undefeated. In what was a sign of things to come, Rex Grossman had an up-and-down game in the Metrodome. Through the first 3 quarters, Bad Rex struggled and tossed 2 INTs that led directly to Viking points.

But thanks to a Tommie Harris strip of current Bears running back Chester Taylor, Chicago took over in Minnesota territory with about 3 minutes left in the game. Five plays later, Rex found Rashied Davis for a 24-yard TD pass to give the Bears the lead and eventual win.

The victory helped catapult Chicago to a 13-3 season that ended in Miami in the Super Bowl.

4) 2009 – Cutler OT TD pass ruins Vikes’ hopes for homefield advantage in playoffs.

The 12-2, Brett Favre-led Vikings strolled into Soldier Field vs. the 5-9 Bears for a frigid Monday Night matchup. Jay Cutler, who up to that point in the season was a one-man interception machine (25 picks coming into the game), sparked the Bears to a 16-0 halftime lead.

But the ageless, gray-haired wonder guided the Vikings back. A short TD pass to Sidney Rice in the corner of the end zone tied the score with only seconds remaining. In OT, Hunter Hillenmeyer forced an Adrian Peterson fumble in Vikings territory.

On the following play, Cutler hit a wide-open Devin Aromashodu down the sideline for the 39-yard game-winner. Cutler finished the night with 4 TD passes. The loss dropped Minnesota behind New Orleans in the chase for home field in the NFC playoffs. And we all know how that worked out for them down in Nawlins…

3) 2007 – Two 80-yard Hester TDs not enough to save Bears from last-second loss.

In a game that featured huge plays from the teams’ most explosive weapons, Devin Hester almost had the last laugh on rookie Pro Bowler, Adrian Peterson. Early on, Hester juked 4 Vikings defenders (without the aid of any Bears blockers) and darted down the sideline for an 89-yard return that helped the Bears rally against the Vikings.

But big rushes by Peterson kept the Bears down by as many as 14 points late in the 4th quarter. With 1:38 remaining, Brian Griese found his newbie WR Hester wide open down the sideline for an 81-yard TD pass to tie the score. A 53-yard kick return by Adrian Peterson – who rushed for a Soldier Field opponent record 224 yards – on the ensuing kickoff set the Vikings up in great field position.  They moved down to the Bears 37-yard line, where Ryan Longwell booted a career long 54-yard field goal to give the Vikings the win at the gun.

The electrifying big-play battle between Hester and Peterson was one for the ages…even if Viking fans remember it more fondly.

2) 1995 – Upstart Bears upset Vikes in playoff rematch.

The Vikings swept the Bears during the 1994 regular season, one via blowout and another in an OT win at the Metrodome. The underdog Bears, led by former Miami Hurricane QB Steve Walsh (who supplanted free agent pickup Erik Kramer as starter late in the season) helped navigate the Bears to a 35-18 win.

Coming out of the locker room with a 5-point halftime lead, Walsh threw a long TD to WR Jeff Graham. The Bears got a late defensive touchdown to seal the deal and hand the Warren Moon-led Vikings an abrupt first-round playoff exit.

It would be the crowning achievement of the Dave Wannstedt era.

1) 1985 – Hobbled McMahon leads Bears to comeback win.

The Bears entered this rare Thursday night matchup with a 2-0 record. With starting QB Jim McMahon nursing a sore back and neck, backup Steve Fuller started for the Bears. After spending 3 quarters harassing Mike Ditka to put him the game, the Punky QB finally got his chance with the Bears trailing 17-9.

On his first play, he launched a 70-yard TD bomb to Willie Gault. Then, on his second play from scrimmage, McMahon found Dennis McKinnon for a 25-yard TD toss that put the Bears ahead.

For good measure, McMahon threw another TD to McKinnon on his 8th play from scrimmage. Final score: Bears 33, Vikings 24. The Bears of course went on to finish a magical ’85 season 18-1 and Super Bowl XX Champs.

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Gridiron Gab Week Fifteen Preview – Cleveland at Cincinnati

Cleveland Browns Vs Cincinnati Bengals

When: Sunday,December 19th

Where: Paul Brown Stadium

Time: 1:00 p.m

Weather: Cloudy,High of 29

Players to Watch:

Bengals Offense

This is a very talented group that hasn’t been able to click all season young. With T.O. and Ochocinco they are a very dangerous match-up for the Browns and shouldn’t be taken lightly, despite there record. The Browns secondary has been playing better lately, but this should be a tough test for the young defensive backs on the team.

Peyton Hillis

I am interested in seeing how Hillis responds to last week’s game against the Bills. Hillis put the ball on the  field to many times for this team to be successful. We need Hillis to hold onto the football and can’t afford him putting the ball on the ground for the rest of the season.

Colt McCoy

It’s McCoy’s team for the rest of the year and hopefully his career. Colt played pretty good when he was the starter before his injury and hopefully can pick up where he left off. The team needs better Quarterback play then what they have had with Delhomme in there, and I look for McCoy to pick up where he left off  the last three weeks of the season.

Keys to the Game:

NO TURNOVERS

No stupid penalties.

Establish Running game

Contain Bengals Offense

Prediction

Cleveland Browns 21 Cincinnati Bengals 17

I look for Colt to play a good game and the offense to get back on track with him under center. I also think Hillis will make up for his bad game last week against the Bills. The Browns can’t let the Bengals to get going because if they do it could be a long Sunday for the team. Joe Haden and T.J. Ward will be tested this weekend, at Paul Browns Stadium. This is a big game for Coach Mangini and he can’t afford to lose this one if he wants to keep his job.

?

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Gridiron Gab Week Fifteen Preview – New York Jets at Pittsburgh

With a shot to put a strangle hold on the division, the Steelers host a team that is slumping Sunday at Heinz Field, the 9-4 New York Jets. The Jets have dropped two in a row, and have a QB in Mark Sanchez that is struggling to the point where his coach is taking him out for one-on-one meetings and lunches. So how do the Steelers find a way to win? Read below as we get you set for Sunday.

1. Take What You Can Get - If you haven’t figured this out, Sunday is going to resemble a Ravens-Steelers game, and that’s mostly due to Rex Ryan and how the Jets play. With that, the Steelers are having serious red zone issues, and overall the offense needs to get itself righted before they find themselves playing in a game where it’s win or go home. So Sunday vs the Jets, if you are inside the 20, take a 5-6 yard gain, get a first down, and stop worrying about one play to score 6. Enough of those 5-6 yard plays and that 6 will come.

2. Confuse Sanchez – Mark Sanchez doesn’t play well in bad weather, and seems to be in another December slump. So the Steelers and mastermind Dick LeBeau need to do what they can to get to him, confuse him, and when they pressure him, take him down. Sanchez the threw his 12th interception of the season and finished 17 of 44 for 216 yards against the Dolphins, and it also hurt the run game as the Jets played from behind all day. The Steelers need to play that type of game Sunday.

3. Be Physical with Edwards and Holmes – Both wide outs can be either very good, or disappear when games get tight. Both also don’t do as well when corner backs play them physical, and that will be the job Sunday of both Ike Taylor and Bryant McFadden. Make no mistake, you know that Holmes wants to come back to Heinz Field and make a game-changing play in this one, and it will be up to the Steelers secondary, minus an injured Troy Polamalu, to make that happen. As for Edwards, make him drop an early pass and his head won’t be in it the rest of the day.

Prediction – This is going to be another very physical game, the Steelers second in three weeks after last weeks win over the Bengals, and the slug fest with the Ravens two weeks back. The offense is having scoring issues, there’s no Polamalu to bail them out this week, and the Jets are desperate to get their season back on track. So why are the Steelers going to win? Easy, they are at home, where the Jets don’t win (0-7 lifetime), the Steelers are not giving the ball up, and their D is going to get to Sanchez, who is slumping big time. Steelers clinch the division after the Ravens lose to the Saints and the Steelers top the Jets. Steelers 14 NY Jets 6

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Packers QB Rodgers May Still Try and Go Sunday vs Patriots

Aaron Rodgers may be listed as doubtful to play Sunday night at New England, but today in the locker room he seemed to give indications that he would do what he could to try and take the field.

Rodgers was upbeat after practice, and asked if he might play Sunday night, the quarterback didn’t say a word but flashed a smile and shrugged his shoulders. Coach Mike McCarthy also isn’t ruling him out for the critical contest that could put a dagger in the Packers playoff chances.

“The door is open for Aaron Rodgers to play in the game,” McCarthy said. Rodgers didn’t practice this week, but McCarthy said the he is progressing in his recovery from the head injury that knocked him out of the loss at Detroit last Sunday.

“He’s working his way through the process,” McCarthy said. “There are stages that you work through. But he’s making progress, and I talked to him today. He looks good (and) would like to play.”

Although McCarthy said the team has been preparing since Monday to have Matt Flynn make his first NFL start, the coach stopped short of naming a starter for the game against the Patriots.

McCarthy is hoping to make that decision by Saturday, after he waits to see how Rodgers checks out with further mandatory post-concussion evaluations and testing administered by Packers team doctor John Gray as well as an independent neurologist.

“Number one, he has to be cleared medically, and Dr. John Gray will have the final say on that,” McCarthy said. “And if he does make it to that point, then myself will make a decision on whether he plays or not. Right now, he’s still working through the medical part.”

Rodgers suffered his first concussion in an overtime loss at Washington on Oct. 10. He was cleared to return to practice four days later and made the start in Green Bay’s next game.

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Nevada set to give Chris Ault extension

Nevada is set to give coach Chris Ault a two-year contract extension following the best season in school history.

The school will recommend the extension to the Nevada State Higher Education Board of Regents for approval, athletic director Cary Groth said in a statement Friday.

The extension would run through the 2013 season.

“We set goals for the program at the end of last season, and Chris and his staff have exceeded each of those goals," Groth said. "The success of the football program this year has brought unprecedented national recognition and exposure for the University of Nevada and Northern Nevada and has brought everyone in the community together."

No. 15 Nevada (12-1) will play Boston College in the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl on Jan. 9 in San Francisco. The Wolf Pack won a share of their second WAC championship, and Ault also earned his second WAC Coach of the Year award.

“I am very pleased about the opportunity to continue as the head football coach of the University of Nevada,” Ault said in a statement. “We have worked hard to set a foundation of success here at Nevada, and this season is a product of that hard work.

"We look forward to building upon the success of this season and continuing to put an exciting team on the field in the future.”

Ault, a member of the College Football Hall of Fame, is in his 26th overall season as Nevada’s head coach. He holds a 218-97-1 career record and ranks fifth among active FBS coaches in victories.

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Maryland staff, players left in limbo

There is miscommunication and confusion going on at Maryland right now.

Maryland AD Kevin Anderson is strongly considering asking coach Ralph Friedgen to take a buyout and retire, ESPN.com's Joe Schad is reporting. Friedgen did not answer his cell phone for immediate comment, and a source said he went home instead of participating in a scheduled teleconference with Anderson and reporters Friday afternoon.

The program is being torn apart at the seams, and there's literally nothing this staff can say to hide it from recruits.

Forget next year, these guys don't know if they'll be employed next week.

Earlier Friday, offensive coordinator James Franklin left to be Vanderbilt's head coach, and he reportedly plans to take several assistants with him. Sources said that Friedgen left the office Friday without talking to any staff members about the situation, and everyone was left wondering about their future. The assistants, their families and the players are the ones who have been hurt the most by the upheaval at Maryland -- not Friedgen. He'll get a cool $2 million out of the deal.

If Maryland is going to salvage this mess (and what an embarrassing, disorganized display of leadership this has been), it's going to have to come from Kevin Plank.

Plank, founder of Under Armour and former Terp, has the money. Maryland can't afford to both fire Friedgen and hire a big-name coach. He has ties to former Texas Tech coach Mike Leach, but Leach still has some legal baggage and hurdles to overcome in that regard. Plank respects Friedgen -- Maryland was the first program in the country to endorse his product -- but he respects the program more.

If he wants a change, he's got the money and the power to make it happen.

It's not Plank's job, though, to take care of the current staff and players -- it's Friedgen's, and today, he didn't get it done.

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Gridiron Gab Week Fifteen Preview – Denver at Oakland

59-14.  It’s there in front of everyone, the thorough whooping that the Oakland Raiders gave the Donkeys last time they played.  It started the downfall of the Donkeys and their eventual firing of their head coach, and gave the Raiders momentum for their first 3 game winning streak in nearly a decade.  The Raiders have already seen the Chargers win and will know if the Chiefs will have won or lost before they play.  Will they meet expectation and steam roll the Donkeys, or continue their up-and-down season by playing down to the level of the Donkeys?  Let’s review how they win…

Give DMC the Ball 25 times

He is 2nd behind Arian Foster for all purpose yards even though he missed 2 games.  He ran all around the Donkeys the last time they played.  If the Raiders are 8-5 instead of 6-7, he is in the MVP conversation.  The Donkeys gave Tim Hightower a career game and did not play with any passion for their interim head coach.  Get DMC the ball 25 times, screens, draws, wildcat, it doesn’t matter how.  Let him touch and see him go.

Shut down Moreno

New coach is the RB coach.  Think he’ll try  to establish the run?  With Orton hurting, Tebow possibly playing significant time, they are going to try to establish Knowshown Moreno all day.  The Raiders run d gave up big plays last week (2 runs accounted for 100 of the Jaguars 234 rushing yards), they are going to have to play their lanes and control the line of scrimmage.

Leave the Champ Alone

A pick 6, any turnover at all, can quickly give the Donkeys momentum.  Don’t tempt fate, get the run game going, use your FB and TE’s to get into the middle of the field, and then use play-action pass to get the ball down the field.  But do not, do not, make it a point to test Champ Bailey.  Let him rot in the Broncos secondary.

Get the Snowball Effect Going Quickly

Rain is on the horizon for the Sunday, so that means a game that didn’t sell out will most likely have even a few less fans.  The Raiders have to go into this game right off the bat for the kill, because they will not have a large home-field advantage.  Get on the Donkeys from the get go, if Captain Virgin (Tebow) starts, just go on the attack.

The Donkeys remember the 59 point thrashing and will come into this game motivated, but then again they have only won once since the Raiders game.  The Raiders have dominated the AFC West, and I don’t see how the Donkeys win this game unless…as I said earlier this week, if Tom Cable loses this game, he won’t be back next year.  So the unless… is if he doesn’t get them motivated to play this game.  Will they?

Raiders 33 Broncos 17

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Pick Six: Which QB would make the best husband?

Hearts are breaking all over Texas with the news that QB Tony Romo popped the question to his girlfriend, Candice Crawford. And yes now is your opportunity to make your own, “at least he will own a ring” joke.

Not me though, because I’m a professional.

But congratulations to the future Mrs. Romo although there are a few things you should know. For one, that is the only ring you are ever going to get from him (zing! classic misdirection form the earlier sentence, see I’m a professional). And don’t expect a career bump if this thing goes south. I have one word for you, Candice — mom jeans. That’s right, just look at Jessica Simpson who has resorted to being engaged to former 49ers TE Eric Johnson. Word on the street is that Simpson bought her own engagement ring.

Are you kidding me? That is the only reason I never asked out Simpson. I figured that since I didn’t have 98 Degrees money, I would never be able to afford the ring if things went really well. Had I known this was in play, things could have been a lot different. But enough about that.

The question now, is Romo the biggest catch of all of the NFL quarterbacks? Here is a breakdown of the best marriage material among NFL quarterbacks, regardless of current marital status.

But before we get to that list, here are some the quarterbacks you would want to avoid. Donovan McNabb (because he will be hanging around the house too much now that he doesn’t have a job). Carson Palmer (because you don’t want him to come home and whine about his diva receivers). Alex Smith (have you seen the number of coordinators he’s gone through?).

6. Curtis Painter. You know those shots of the wives they show when a player goes down on the field? The clasped hands and worried expression on the wife’s face? No wife of Painter will ever have to go through that because he will never be on the field because Peyton Manning plays every play. Painter has the greatest job in the NFL. He’s a quarterback, his team wins and he never gets touched. Like ever. And when Manning throws that game-crippling interception to end the game — like last year’s Super Bowl — you can sit quietly and say, “my husband would have won that game.”

And with the way Manning throws his receivers and linemen under the bus, do you really want him to show up at your kid’s parent/teacher conference and start pointing the finger at you because Peyton Jr. got a timeout for trying to call an audible during the spelling bee?

5. Kerry Collins. He is not only a starting NFL quarterback. He is very close to also bringing in his pension. You have to like that.

4. Sam Bradford/Philip Rivers. Not only are they the bright young stars of the NFL, but there is also a chance you could be moving to Los Angeles soon. A starting NFL quarterback’s salary goes pretty far on Rodeo Drive.

3. Ryan Fitzpatrick. A starting NFL quarterback and a Harvard grad. Win, win. Snap him up quick before the Bills make their first pick in the 2011 NFL Draft.

2. Tom Brady. Almost the sure-fire No. 1 to most. He’s got the looks. The rings. And the hair. Alright, two out of three isn’t bad. But there was a point in Brady’s life where he looked at Bridget Moynahan and said, “you are not good enough.” Going with Tom is a lot like the NFL, as in, not for long.

1. Tim Tebow. Forget the good looks. If you and Tebow have a bouncing baby boy with the Broncos quarterback, Tebow will do the circumcision for free. Win, win.

Alright, that is enough about me, let’s hear from you the NFL enthusiasts, which NFL quarterback would make the best husband?

Posted in: Sidelines  

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Packers: Morning Coffee Headlines

Senior writer jclombardi highlights Packers headlines.

‘Door is open’ for Packers’ Rodgers to play--Earlier this week Mike McCarthy said he would decide Saturday if Aaron Rodgers would play. Now it might be a game-time decision–McCarthy says he is making progress from concussion: Aaron Rodgers is listed as doubtful on the Green Bay Packers’ official injury report. But Rodgers’ playfulness Friday afternoon and one statement by his coach could be viewed as encouraging signs for Packer Nation. Rodgers left last week’s game against Detroit with his second concussion of the season and didn’t practice at all this week. But Packers coach Mike McCarthy said Rodgers is “progressing” and he could wait to make a decision on his playing status until shortly before Green Bay meets New England on Sunday night. Rodgers attended a portion of team meetings before leaving for tests with team physician Gray. Rodgers was at practice as an observer. “But with the late start Sunday, we can leave the door open for that.” McCarthy also said if Rodgers plays, he would wear a different helmet that offered greater protection. The Packers continued to prepare as if backup Matt Flynn would be the starter. Flynn took virtually all of the reps with the No. 1 offense for the third straight day and at least publicly has the full backing of his teammates. ”He’s ready for it,” running back Brandon Jackson said of Flynn. “This whole team knows what Matt can do. We have a lot of confidence in him.”

Commentary: In sports Greek black theater, the nauseating fluff Packers press went through five endless days into the transition from an abominable loss to lowly “retrograde 50s haircut” coached Lions, to the endless stories about Rodgers’ concussion, to the “full confidence” in backup QB Flynn’s probable start, and then back to “the door is open” about doubtful QB Rodger’s play against the high-scoring and winning playoff-bound Patriots (perfect example of where the Packers should be under top management and coaching). We guess that Packers management would like to get game experience for QB Flynn before the miserable season and playoff hopes disappear (played out to the end of season) with “key injuries” headlines excuse. Fan can review Packers Carry On Despite Injuries“. The question is, “How embarrassing will it be on Sunday night?” Either way, it will not matter. Meanwhile, the Packer nation and fans can get ready for their “super bowl” game against the Bears? Predictably, they won’t reach that nauseating fluff press hype for another two weeks.  Amusing!

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Steelers Safety Troy Polamalu to Sit vs Jets Sunday

In the scheme of things, Troy Polamalu has had a rather large hand in the Steelers four-game winning streak, more so the past two weeks in wins over the Ravens and Bengals.

This week though things may have to take a drastic turn, as reports state that Polamalu will sit Sunday vs the Jets due to a lower-leg injury that he re-injured during his45-yard interception return for a touchdown against the Bengals.

Polamalu has yet to practice this week, which for Wednesday and Thursday isn’t a surprise, but he isn’t on the field today, which is a switch, and therefore comes the report he won’t go Sunday.

He will be replaced in the starting lineup by Ryan Mundy or Will Allen. Despite aggravating his injury in the second quarter against the Bengals, Polamalu never missed a play and even had a second interception in the fourth quarter.

So now the team will have to have others come up with big plays vs Mark Sanchez and the Jets, as it’s been Polamalu that had the big hit vs Joe Flacco two weeks ago that gave the Steelers the opportunity to win the game, and his pick vs Carson Palmer got the team back in the game vs Cincy.

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Top Texas commit keeping options open

Christian Westerman is the nation's No. 4 overall recruit and the best offensive lineman in the 2011 class.

The offensive tackle is also Texas' top commit.

The Arizona native pledged to Texas and Mack Brown back in April, but his position coach, Mac McWhorter was forced to retire at the end of the season. Though he's still committed, the 6-foot-5, 290-pounder looks like he's keeping his options open.

He's headed for a visit to Auburn today, and might be taking a look at Oregon later, though he also plans to come back to Austin for a visit in January.

The Longhorns have six offensive line commitments, but Westerman is by far its highest-rated. He's also one of just two current Texas commitments -- the Longhorns have 23 total -- who lives outside the state lines.

It's hardly a time for panic, and we've addressed what the exit of coaches (and wins) from Texas could mean on the recruiting trail, but Westerman's apparent wandering eye can't be reassuring to anyone in Texas' program, especially considering Westerman's strengths and Texas' struggles in 2010.

"Westerman is the dominant type run blocker who knocks defensive lineman back where they came from. His size and athleticism are what we like to see at the major level of competition," reads Westerman's profile on ESPN's recruiting site, powered by Scouts Inc. "This guy has the agility to handle inside quickness and change of direction moves. Demonstrates very good pull/trap mechanics; can get to the edge, seal and play on his feet well in space. When he locks up with linebackers it usually results in a pancake as his excellent upper body playing strength becomes evident. We also like his effort to finish and look for a second blocks downfield."

Texas might hitch its proverbial wagon to incoming running back recruit Malcolm Brown, a Cibolo, Texas native whose high school performance has drawn comparisons to Adrian Peterson, but recruits like Westerman are what could eventually help Brown fill that potential.

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No to Re-Seeding for Playoffs

Rumblings are that owners have discussed whether to change the current system of rewarding division winners with a home playoff game, or if playoff seeds should be based strictly on record. It’s being discussed because the winner of the NFC and the AFC West could be 8-8 or 7-9, while a team with 10 or 11 wins could have to go on the road. This year, that means that the NY Giants, New Orleans Saints, Baltimore Ravens, or the NY Jets may have a better record but be on the road for their first game, or even not make the playoffs.

Reality is the following:

NY (1) Baltimore (24) New Orleans (53)

SF (6) Seattle (14) St. Louis (21) San Diego (28) Kansas City (31)

In parentheses is the TV Market sizes for each of the teams. And notice that 3 of the teams are in the East Coast, specifically the NorthEast area that the NFL (and all other sports) love. Add in that the SF and San Diego are NOT football towns (fair weather fans at the best), St. Louis is a baseball town, and the fever that New Orleans captured last year, you can understand why owners and the NFL want to re-seed. It’s more favorable to the East Coast teams, their respective TV markets and their respective fans.

Fans have complained about this in the NBA in the last few years, the Western Conference is dominating the regular season for the last 10 years and yet watch teams in the Eastern Conference make the playoffs with sub-.500 records. David Stern, though, wants to hear nothing about this. And the reason is quite simple, got to have the East Coast teams in the playoffs. Stern would any day take a sub-.500 NY Knicks or Philadelphia 76er team over the Golden State Warriors or Memphis Grizzlies teams (and their TV markets).

I’m against the re-seeding concept. With how they schedule the games (divisional games now having more focus towards the end of the season) and the natural rivals some teams have, divisional play is a fun part of the league (Ravens/Steelers x 2, Raiders/Chiefs/Broncos/Chargers x2, NFC East x 2) no matter the division. Games are competitive, has gotten more chippy and all teams recognize win your divisional games, have a great opportunity to make the playoffs. Completely re-seeding takes this away and you should then just go to one division for the NFC and one division for the AFC and have everyone just play each team 1 time in their division.

I’m also against it because I don’t care about the East Coast markets (I know, Saints aren’t east coast. I did take geography). I’m already tired about the Jets strength and conditioning coach tripping a Dolphin, about Big Ben’s crooked nose, about the MVP battle between Tom Brady and Michael Vick, etc. etc. etc. And not because those may not be stories, but because the play of Darren McFadden, Phillip Rivers, the interview skills of Mike Singletary, the fact that the best QB in the NFC West was on Dancing with the Stars are all stories that get no play from a league perspective. The East Coast doesn’t care, so let’s not spend much time on it from NFL’s view.

So No to Revis Contract Talks, No to Tiki Barber getting any more TV time about the Giants, No No No to the East Coast Bias. And No to the Re-Seeding for Playoffs.

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Gridiron Gab Week Fifteen Preview – New Orleans at Baltimore

Opponent: New Orleans Saints

Record: 10-3

Head Coach: Sean Payton

Big Test

The Saints come to Baltimore playing their best football of the season. On the other end of the spectrum the Ravens offense have struggled to run the ball and have been inconsistent protecting quarterback Joe Flacco. Defensively, the Ravens gave up a 21 point lead in their game against the Texans on Monday night.  Sunday versus the Saints is a huge test for the Ravens defense and the Ravens offensive line.

The Saints

It all starts with quarterback Drew Brees who is in command of the offense.  Brees has thrown for 3855 yards, with 28 TD’s and 18 Int.’s.  The Saints have numerous weapons on offense with receivers Marques Colston, Lance Moore, Robert Meachem and TE Jeremy Shockey. RB Reggie Bush who has been sidelined for most of the season must be accounted for on the field. The run game is lead by Chris Ivory who averaging 5.3 yards a carry.  The unit is ranked 7th in points scored (25.4) and 3rd in passing yards at 285. The run game is ranked 22nd at 101.1 yards.

Of late: The Saints are taking deeper shots down field and spreading out defenses. Rookie tight end Jimmy Graham is becoming more involved in the offense. Running back Pierre Thomas is back in the fold after being injured.

The Saints defense have played consistent this year.  The unit is ranked 5th in points allowed,18.9.  Against the run they are ranked 16th (107.8 yards). Linebacker Jonathan Vilma (88 combined tackles, 4 sacks and 3 forced fumbles) covers a lot of ground. The secondary plays the pass well ranked 5th and surrendering just under 200 yards a game. The Saints utilize their safeties well.  Strong safety Roman Harper is an impact player with 6 forced fumbles, 3 sacks and 1 interception.  Free safety Malcolm Jenkins in another impact player and has filled in well for the injured Darren Sharper.  Cornerback Tracy Porter has 1 and 1 forced fumble.

Player Match-ups:

LT Michael Oher vs. DT Sedrick Ellis: Eliis has 5 sacks on the season. Oher and the offensive line have to tighten up protections.

Ravens O-line vs. Saints D-line: The Ravens may continue to go with Oniel Cousins at right tackle (as they did Monday night) and Marshal Yanda at right guard in an effort to improve the run game. The Saints are ranked 16th against the run this year.

QB Joe Flacco vs. SS Roman Harper: Looks like teams will continue to bring their safeties until Flacco can audible to a quick pass (hot read).

RB Ray Rice vs. LB Jonathon Vilma The Saints have an excellent secondary and the Ravens will want to establish the run.

Ed Reed vs. Drew Brees: The Saints spread out defenses and will attack the secondary, Reed didn’t have his best game against the Texans, he’ll be an important factor slowing down the Saints offense. Brees is playing true to form now, but he does have 18 interceptions on the season.

T-Sizzle/D-line vs. Saints O-line: You think the Ravens defense will go with the 3 man rush after last week? Let’s hope not. A key will be the pass rush, getting to Drew Brees. Suggs will need to have a good game.

Ravens Linebackers vs. TE Jeremy Shockey: Linebackers McClain and Gooden must be physical in order to throw the with the Saints Tight end off his routes. Shockey is the third leading receiver on the team with 37 receptions and 3 TD.’s.

CB Josh Wilson vs. WR Marques Colston: It’s looking like Wilson is matching up against the opponents number one receivers. Colston has 76 receptions, 921 yards 7 TD’ and is averaging 12.1 yards a catch. A tough match-up for any cornerback.

PLAYER WHO MAKES THE HIGHLIGHT FILM:

Jonathan Scruggs: Ed Reed

After a down week against the Houston Texans, Ed Reed will need to have a bounce back outing against the New Orleans Saints. Early forecasts for the game suggest cold and snow/rain. If the Ravens are going to win it’s going to start with Ed making Drew Brees pay for mistakes made in sloppy weather.

Matt Jergensen: Terrell Suggs

“Pressure is the name of the game on defense. Matt Schaub threw the game away on the play before the Josh Wilson’s pick. Suggs was in the end zone grasping at the Texans starter looking to start the Safety dance. He caused the game to change. Hopefully he’ll do it again against a great offense.”

Gene Winner: Ray Rice

“The Ravens coaches aren’t done trying to make this a more physical offensive line. Look for Ray Rice to have some success this game.”

Recent News:

Cousins officially moves up depth chart

“Oniel Cousins’ stint with the starters against the Houston Texans was not an experiment, as his name was officially promoted on the Ravens’ latest depth chart.Cousins started his first game of the season – and the fourth of his three-year career – at right tackle in the Ravens’ 34-28 overtime victory. Cousins’ addition to the first team let Marshal Yanda slide down to right guard, his more natural position. And, it also meant the Ravens could use former starting right guard Chris Chester, one of the Ravens’ most athletic linemen, rove as a blocking tight end in a jumbo package. It is unknown whether Cousins’ starting role is permanent, but the depth-chart change means Cousins is at least expected to be with the ones this weekend against the New Orleans Saints.”

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