First we had to deal with Tom Brady's shoulder. Then it became a "foot" injury. Now, we are hearing that he might be going bald or suffering from a receding hairline.
Reports in the Boston Herald indicate that Brady sought consultation about a "hair plug" procedure. His hair is thinning and apparently he is concerned about a receding hairline.
Perhaps that is why he wear his hair long now because it won't last forever. Hall of Fame QB Terry Bradshaw had long flowing blond locks at one time, but has been sporting a shiny dome since the 1980's.
Brady should be concerned. His father has the classic case of male baldness. Brady has a future in modeling where the coiffure is considered very important. Maybe he might try the Michael Jordan look. It worked well forMJ.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Big Game Tonight in the NFC West
The NFL must be very happy that a pair of 3-7 teams are playing a huge game tonight on Monday Night Football.
The game between the San Francisco 49er's and Arizona Cardinals will have huge implications on the NFC West race as both teams trail the 5-6 Seattle Seahawks and St Louis Rams by only one game.
With six weeks to go, one division may have a winner with a final 8-8 record. As a division winner, they would host a Wild Card playoff game.
At this point in the season, only Buffalo, Cincinnati, Detroit and Carolina are out of the playoff picture. A few more will be added this weekend if some of the teams with eight losses add to their total.
This is what the NFL wants with the "balanced" schedule. It's great for the television ratings with teams still having a shot. This is unlike other professional sports that always have a bunch of teams out of it early in the season.
The game between the San Francisco 49er's and Arizona Cardinals will have huge implications on the NFC West race as both teams trail the 5-6 Seattle Seahawks and St Louis Rams by only one game.
With six weeks to go, one division may have a winner with a final 8-8 record. As a division winner, they would host a Wild Card playoff game.
At this point in the season, only Buffalo, Cincinnati, Detroit and Carolina are out of the playoff picture. A few more will be added this weekend if some of the teams with eight losses add to their total.
This is what the NFL wants with the "balanced" schedule. It's great for the television ratings with teams still having a shot. This is unlike other professional sports that always have a bunch of teams out of it early in the season.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Too Many Teams Playing
It seems like every sport wants to include more teams in the playoffs. The NFL constantly considers whether to add another wild card team in each conference. Baseball is also considering the same.
The start of high school football playoffs begins this week in Massachusetts. There will be no state champion overall because the state is broken down into Eastern, Central and Western sectors.
Eastern Mass. is the classic example of inclusion and ensuring that nobody feels left out or slighted. Rather than label Divisions 1-8, the teams are broken down by Divisions 1 & IA, 2 & 2A, 3 & 3A, 4 & 4A. The initial round will involve 30 teams at 15 games.
Most of the finals will be played at Gillette Stadium. A couple of the games will be played at another venue. I'm sure those players, coaches and parents feel slighted that their team did not get the chance to play in the Big House.
Maybe, they should declare very team a champion. It would save a lot of time for everyone.
The start of high school football playoffs begins this week in Massachusetts. There will be no state champion overall because the state is broken down into Eastern, Central and Western sectors.
Eastern Mass. is the classic example of inclusion and ensuring that nobody feels left out or slighted. Rather than label Divisions 1-8, the teams are broken down by Divisions 1 & IA, 2 & 2A, 3 & 3A, 4 & 4A. The initial round will involve 30 teams at 15 games.
Most of the finals will be played at Gillette Stadium. A couple of the games will be played at another venue. I'm sure those players, coaches and parents feel slighted that their team did not get the chance to play in the Big House.
Maybe, they should declare very team a champion. It would save a lot of time for everyone.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Small Squad Football
High school football is a huge part of the Thanksgiving Day tradition in America. Every game and rivalry has a great story line behind it.
Boston Latin and Boston English renewed their rivalry for the 124th time. It's been lopsided over the years with English winning only twice in the last 40 years.
The teams continue to play in spite of the small number of players on the English roster. They only dressed 14 players for the game. During the season, they have dressed less than 20. The team struggles to recruit players.
That may have contributed to their 54-12 loss to Latin. They trailed 14-7 at one point, but Latin scored seven touchdowns on the ground and piled up 300 yards. The score could have been much worse.
The game was played in Harvard Stadium, quite a venue for a high school contest. I think the players will remember it for the rest of their lives. It meant a lot to the 14 who dressed.
Boston Latin and Boston English renewed their rivalry for the 124th time. It's been lopsided over the years with English winning only twice in the last 40 years.
The teams continue to play in spite of the small number of players on the English roster. They only dressed 14 players for the game. During the season, they have dressed less than 20. The team struggles to recruit players.
That may have contributed to their 54-12 loss to Latin. They trailed 14-7 at one point, but Latin scored seven touchdowns on the ground and piled up 300 yards. The score could have been much worse.
The game was played in Harvard Stadium, quite a venue for a high school contest. I think the players will remember it for the rest of their lives. It meant a lot to the 14 who dressed.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Countdown to J-E-T-S
The Pats were able to beat the Lions yesterday , 45-24, after playing a mediocre first half. Coach Belichick and Tom Brady have emphasized that the team has been unable to play a consistent 60 minutes of football against any opponent this season.
That could come back to haunt them in their next game, a week from Monday against the Jets. That will be their toughest battle of the year. The Jets looked really good last night during their 27-24 win over the Bengals.
The Monday night battle with the Jets should be a great indicator of how far the Pats could go in the playoffs. If they can't be the Jets, they might not get past the first round. The next ten days will be filled with hype. Unfortunately, some "experts" will just focus on what is wrong with the Pats.
You would think the team is 2-9 the way some of these guys talk. After a while, I need to turn the radio off. Of course, these guys would not have a job unless they focused on the negativity.
That could come back to haunt them in their next game, a week from Monday against the Jets. That will be their toughest battle of the year. The Jets looked really good last night during their 27-24 win over the Bengals.
The Monday night battle with the Jets should be a great indicator of how far the Pats could go in the playoffs. If they can't be the Jets, they might not get past the first round. The next ten days will be filled with hype. Unfortunately, some "experts" will just focus on what is wrong with the Pats.
You would think the team is 2-9 the way some of these guys talk. After a while, I need to turn the radio off. Of course, these guys would not have a job unless they focused on the negativity.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
More For Motown
I'll be the first to say that I wish the Pats were playing their game on Sunday instead of Thanksgiving at 12:30PM. I enjoy watching other teams on this day, but I'm a Sunday 1PM traditionalist.
I think it's great that the league has a triple header lined up. The Lions and Cowboys have been a tradition for many years. Detroit started this in 1934. They have always played at home no matter what happened.
Naturally, there is a movement to take the game away from Motown for a few reasons. The Lions have been horrible for the last several years. They usually get the 1st or 2nd overall draft pick because of their losing ways.
They wasted a great deal of draft choices under former GM Matt Millen. Now, some want to move the game out of Detroit in lieu of their poor record and the dismal economic climate of the city. They want to spread the game around and let other cities have the option of being the showcase venue.
I strongly oppose this. I'm a great believer in tradition. Just because the team is playing poorly is not a good reason to move the game. The city of Detroit needs all of the economic help it can get.
The Cowboys came on-board with the Thanksgiving Day game in the 1960's. The night game is just a creation of the NFL Network. If they want to move the game from city to city, do it with the night game.
Thanksgiving is very traditional. I see no reason to move the game from Detroit.
I think it's great that the league has a triple header lined up. The Lions and Cowboys have been a tradition for many years. Detroit started this in 1934. They have always played at home no matter what happened.
Naturally, there is a movement to take the game away from Motown for a few reasons. The Lions have been horrible for the last several years. They usually get the 1st or 2nd overall draft pick because of their losing ways.
They wasted a great deal of draft choices under former GM Matt Millen. Now, some want to move the game out of Detroit in lieu of their poor record and the dismal economic climate of the city. They want to spread the game around and let other cities have the option of being the showcase venue.
I strongly oppose this. I'm a great believer in tradition. Just because the team is playing poorly is not a good reason to move the game. The city of Detroit needs all of the economic help it can get.
The Cowboys came on-board with the Thanksgiving Day game in the 1960's. The night game is just a creation of the NFL Network. If they want to move the game from city to city, do it with the night game.
Thanksgiving is very traditional. I see no reason to move the game from Detroit.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Pacman Squanders
Adam "Pacman" Jones is the poster boy for NFL players who have lead a life involving numerous arrests and misconduct off the field.
Jones is the epitome of a player who has squandered his talents. He keeps getting additional chances because of who he is and his exceptional talents.
He was the overall 6th selection in the 2005 draft when the Tennessee Titans called his name. He began a series of incidents which lead to his suspension for the 2007 season and part of 2008. He resurfaced with the Bengals last year before getting injured this season and ending up on IR.
His latest problems involve being ordered to pay $241,000 to a NYC car dealer for non-payment of two leased luxury cars. It doesn't make any sense why Jones would need to rent both a Lamborghini and a Bentley.
He seems destined to follow the road of many professional athletes who squander their excessive money on cars and jewelry. For all of the money he has earned, he probably doesn't have too much of it left.
The league has recently mandated that all rookies and draft selctions attend a symposium on how to conduct themselves outside of football. Too many of these guys end up broke by the time they are in their late 20's.
Jones is the epitome of a player who has squandered his talents. He keeps getting additional chances because of who he is and his exceptional talents.
He was the overall 6th selection in the 2005 draft when the Tennessee Titans called his name. He began a series of incidents which lead to his suspension for the 2007 season and part of 2008. He resurfaced with the Bengals last year before getting injured this season and ending up on IR.
His latest problems involve being ordered to pay $241,000 to a NYC car dealer for non-payment of two leased luxury cars. It doesn't make any sense why Jones would need to rent both a Lamborghini and a Bentley.
He seems destined to follow the road of many professional athletes who squander their excessive money on cars and jewelry. For all of the money he has earned, he probably doesn't have too much of it left.
The league has recently mandated that all rookies and draft selctions attend a symposium on how to conduct themselves outside of football. Too many of these guys end up broke by the time they are in their late 20's.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Mike Is The Best
I watched a NFL Network show on the sound bites of LB/Head Coach Mike Singletary. He was a stalwart on the Chicago Bears 1985 Super Bowl team that included Walter Payton and William "Refrigerator" Perry and so many others.They beat the Pats 46-10 in the January 26, 1986 game.
He now coaches the San Francisco 49er's to their current 3-7 record. It's been a long road for the Hall of Famer. He was a great defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens with Ray Lewis, but the transition to the head coaching ranks has been challenging.
He may become a victim of the 49er's lack of success and get himself fired. I believe he has a great future in the NFL as a head coach. Nobody is more passionate about the game than him. He is a great asset to any team.
If he gets fired and can't get a head coaching job, he would be an awesome addition to Coach Belichick's staff. Bill might even make him the "defensive coordinator". You never know....
He now coaches the San Francisco 49er's to their current 3-7 record. It's been a long road for the Hall of Famer. He was a great defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens with Ray Lewis, but the transition to the head coaching ranks has been challenging.
He may become a victim of the 49er's lack of success and get himself fired. I believe he has a great future in the NFL as a head coach. Nobody is more passionate about the game than him. He is a great asset to any team.
If he gets fired and can't get a head coaching job, he would be an awesome addition to Coach Belichick's staff. Bill might even make him the "defensive coordinator". You never know....
Monday, November 22, 2010
The Last Days of Brett
The pre-season Super Bowl hopes of the Vikings evaporated yesterday after losing 31-3 to Green Bay at home. It also cost Coach Brad Childress his job. In retrospect, he probably wishes he never based his team's fortune on Brett Favre.
With the Vikings at 3-7, Favre now faces what could be the last six meaningless games of his 20 year career. His compensation amounts to over $1 million per start.
The Vikings must now decide if they want to salvage a few wins. Favre was 17 of 38 for 208 yards, with one interception and heavy pressure throughout the game.
Favre is banged up and could rationalize sitting out the last six games on Injured Reserve. What will he choose to do? What will the Vikings do?
The fans in Minnesota can only roll their eyes as this drama continues to play out.
With the Vikings at 3-7, Favre now faces what could be the last six meaningless games of his 20 year career. His compensation amounts to over $1 million per start.
The Vikings must now decide if they want to salvage a few wins. Favre was 17 of 38 for 208 yards, with one interception and heavy pressure throughout the game.
Favre is banged up and could rationalize sitting out the last six games on Injured Reserve. What will he choose to do? What will the Vikings do?
The fans in Minnesota can only roll their eyes as this drama continues to play out.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Bad Seats At The Game
Last night, Notre Dame and Army played the first football game at the new Yankee Stadium. The teams met for the 5oth time in their rivalry with the Fighting Irish winning 27-3. They played there many times between 1920 and 1950. Their last game there was in 1969.
The stadium was designed with football in mind. I'm not sure what that means other than they were able to get a football field in there. The overhead shots of the field from the blimp did not show the playing field in a favorable light. Too many seats were at odd angles to the field or were just too far away.
Illinois and Northwestern played their game at Wrigley field in Chicago. The stadium was not large enough to meet the NCAA regulations for space behind the end zone. As a result, both teams had to play their offense towards the same end zone. The place also had many awkward seats.
I applaud both venues for having football games there. However, baseball stadiums do not provide good sight lines for watching a football game. Many people must have gone home with stiff necks. You should not need a pair of binoculars to see the action on the field.
The stadium was designed with football in mind. I'm not sure what that means other than they were able to get a football field in there. The overhead shots of the field from the blimp did not show the playing field in a favorable light. Too many seats were at odd angles to the field or were just too far away.
Illinois and Northwestern played their game at Wrigley field in Chicago. The stadium was not large enough to meet the NCAA regulations for space behind the end zone. As a result, both teams had to play their offense towards the same end zone. The place also had many awkward seats.
I applaud both venues for having football games there. However, baseball stadiums do not provide good sight lines for watching a football game. Many people must have gone home with stiff necks. You should not need a pair of binoculars to see the action on the field.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Desperate QB Situation
You don't see many teams with a winning record without a good QB. When a starter goes down, you need a dependable back-up. Matt Cassell landed a huge contract after filling in for Tom Brady during the 2008 season.
Some teams resort to desperate measures. Back in 2007, the Carolina Panthers brought in 43 year old Vinny Testaverde on a Tuesday before stating the next game. This time, they are going with Brian St. Pierre who has been a stay at home dad this season. In fact, he didn't even attend a training camp.
St Pierre had a great career at Boston College before the Steelers selected him in the 5th round of the 2003 draft. He has made a career of being a back-up QB on three different teams.
Unfortunately, he has limited playing experience with career stats of 2 of 5 for 12 yards, one TD and one interception.
After the 1-8 Panthers play the Baltimore Ravens, St. Pierre will increase his career numbers one way or the other.
Some teams resort to desperate measures. Back in 2007, the Carolina Panthers brought in 43 year old Vinny Testaverde on a Tuesday before stating the next game. This time, they are going with Brian St. Pierre who has been a stay at home dad this season. In fact, he didn't even attend a training camp.
St Pierre had a great career at Boston College before the Steelers selected him in the 5th round of the 2003 draft. He has made a career of being a back-up QB on three different teams.
Unfortunately, he has limited playing experience with career stats of 2 of 5 for 12 yards, one TD and one interception.
After the 1-8 Panthers play the Baltimore Ravens, St. Pierre will increase his career numbers one way or the other.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Match of This Era
A lot is being made about the match-up between the Colts and Pats on Sunday. Many feel it's all about Tom Brady vs Peyton Manning. They feel to realize that football is a total team effort, unlike the other major sports.
Some have said this is the greatest match-up of quarterbacks ever. They fail to take into account such icons as Joe Montana vs Troy Aikman and Dan Marino vs John Elway. The list could go on and on.
Brady and Manning are the big ones of this era. The NFL has a rich history which many fans fail to appreciate. These two players are destined for the Hall of Fame, but eventually someone else will take their place. Brady said he wants to play into his 40's. He might do that. You never know, but all careers end at some point.
Another great rivalry will come along. Fans will say that rivalry is the greatest ever. There will be those who never saw Brady and Manning play. That's how it goes.
Some have said this is the greatest match-up of quarterbacks ever. They fail to take into account such icons as Joe Montana vs Troy Aikman and Dan Marino vs John Elway. The list could go on and on.
Brady and Manning are the big ones of this era. The NFL has a rich history which many fans fail to appreciate. These two players are destined for the Hall of Fame, but eventually someone else will take their place. Brady said he wants to play into his 40's. He might do that. You never know, but all careers end at some point.
Another great rivalry will come along. Fans will say that rivalry is the greatest ever. There will be those who never saw Brady and Manning play. That's how it goes.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Shaun, Tyrone & Pierre
There are many player transactions on NFL teams. Players get signed and released. It's a fact of life in the NFL where time can be short.
The Pats had an interesting player transaction this week. They released 2008 3rd round pick LB Shaun Crable in order to sign LB Pierre Woods who was released in the final cut of the 2010 training camp. Woods spent four years with the team after being signed as an undrafted free-agent in 2006.
Coach Belichick implied that ties are not cut with Crable forever. Anything could happen in the future.
I really wonder if Shaun Crable and Tyrone McKenzie are the future of this team. It's hard to believe.
The Pats had an interesting player transaction this week. They released 2008 3rd round pick LB Shaun Crable in order to sign LB Pierre Woods who was released in the final cut of the 2010 training camp. Woods spent four years with the team after being signed as an undrafted free-agent in 2006.
Coach Belichick implied that ties are not cut with Crable forever. Anything could happen in the future.
I really wonder if Shaun Crable and Tyrone McKenzie are the future of this team. It's hard to believe.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Players Not Fine With It
The NFL has been cracking down on helmet to helmet hits by leveling huge fines against several players. The NFL Players Association has complained that there has been a lack of consistency in determining the fines. The league is trying to get it right with the safety of its players in a game defined by its violence.
One area where the league has a zero tolerance policy concerns the proper use of player equipment. Jets LB Bart Scott was fined $25,000 for not buckling his chinstrap during last Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions. It was his third violation of the rule requiring the strap to be on at all times.
Chad Ochocinco of the Bengals gave up another $20,000 for wearing gold cleats during the Bengal's loss to the Steelers. He continues to write huge checks for decisions that are bound to bring a fine.
The league is particularly harsh on anyone showing a logo or not wearing the right socks. The NFL is very conscience of tits image to the public. That is behind the crackdown on vicious hits. At the same time, they want all the players to match with their uniforms.
One area where the league has a zero tolerance policy concerns the proper use of player equipment. Jets LB Bart Scott was fined $25,000 for not buckling his chinstrap during last Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions. It was his third violation of the rule requiring the strap to be on at all times.
Chad Ochocinco of the Bengals gave up another $20,000 for wearing gold cleats during the Bengal's loss to the Steelers. He continues to write huge checks for decisions that are bound to bring a fine.
The league is particularly harsh on anyone showing a logo or not wearing the right socks. The NFL is very conscience of tits image to the public. That is behind the crackdown on vicious hits. At the same time, they want all the players to match with their uniforms.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The Streak of Hines
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Hines Ward is upset with the new NFL concussion policy. Hines was removed from the game against the Pats in the first quarter after suffering a helmet to helmet hit. He caught a pass, but the call was overturned after a challenge by Coach Belichick.
As Hines staggered off the field, he was examined by a neurologist on the sideline who ruled him out for the rest of the game. Under the league's new concussion policy, Hines was examined by an independent neurologist rather than one from the team. In the past, many players have returned to action after "getting their bell rung". Hines felt that it should have been his decision whether to continue playing.
As a result, Hines had his streak of 186 game ended in which he had caught a pass. It began on November 9, 1998 against Green Bay and continued until this past Sunday night. His was the third longest behind Jerry Rice (275 ) and Marvin Harrison (190). Tong Gonzalez now has the longest streak at 155.
Hines was very upset over the whole process. He is known as a tenacious blocker who is not afraid to crush a safety or any other defender.
He has 925 career receptions for 11,322 yards. It has not been decided whether he will be cleared to play this Sunday against the Oakland Raiders.
As Hines staggered off the field, he was examined by a neurologist on the sideline who ruled him out for the rest of the game. Under the league's new concussion policy, Hines was examined by an independent neurologist rather than one from the team. In the past, many players have returned to action after "getting their bell rung". Hines felt that it should have been his decision whether to continue playing.
As a result, Hines had his streak of 186 game ended in which he had caught a pass. It began on November 9, 1998 against Green Bay and continued until this past Sunday night. His was the third longest behind Jerry Rice (275 ) and Marvin Harrison (190). Tong Gonzalez now has the longest streak at 155.
Hines was very upset over the whole process. He is known as a tenacious blocker who is not afraid to crush a safety or any other defender.
He has 925 career receptions for 11,322 yards. It has not been decided whether he will be cleared to play this Sunday against the Oakland Raiders.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Anything Can Happen In OT
With the Jets beating the Browns 26-20 with one minute left in overtime, the Pats really need to win tonight. That is far from a guarantee. They are going against one of the best defenses in the league at stopping the running game. The Pats really need to turn around from last week.
The Browns could have won the game, but made some terrible mistakes. The overtime period was a classic example of how anything can happen to any team. There were tipped balls and very close plays. The margin between winning and losing was very minuscule.
Some might say the Jets are a lucky team, but in the end, the winning team often makes one more bigger play. That happened today for the Jets in their final drive.
The Browns could have won the game, but made some terrible mistakes. The overtime period was a classic example of how anything can happen to any team. There were tipped balls and very close plays. The margin between winning and losing was very minuscule.
Some might say the Jets are a lucky team, but in the end, the winning team often makes one more bigger play. That happened today for the Jets in their final drive.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
The Last Home Game
I went to the UMass-Delaware football game today. It was their last home game of the season. They lost 45-17, greatly hurting their playoff chances for Division I-AA.
There is one more game next week against Rhode Island. For most of the seniors on the team, this will be be the last game of their football career. A few will chase the dream of a roster spot in the NFL. Some might cling to their dream with the Canadian Football League or the Arena.
There are also the semi-pro teams. We have a league in Northeast Massachusetts. They play a very hard hitting style which results in too many injuries. A few years ago, a local team canceled their last three games because of a depleted roster.
So for the most part, their careers end next Saturday. There will be a few exceptions, but most will never play on a team again.
Anyone who plays in the NFL lives on the edge. Their career can end on any given play. They can also be released whitout notice.
In all the years I have followed the NFL, very few players leave on their own terms. Most are told they can no longer play. Injuries are very cruel.
When LB Tedy Bruschi retired right before the start of 2009 season, he did so knowing that his knee would not carry him through the season. Coach Belichick said there was a roster spot for him, but I think Bruschi knew it was over.
He has made a good transition to a broadcaster and was very happy at his retirement press conference. I think he is one of the few.
I wonder what Ty Law thinks about his playing future. Does he have any more opportunities? Will he play again?
There is one more game next week against Rhode Island. For most of the seniors on the team, this will be be the last game of their football career. A few will chase the dream of a roster spot in the NFL. Some might cling to their dream with the Canadian Football League or the Arena.
There are also the semi-pro teams. We have a league in Northeast Massachusetts. They play a very hard hitting style which results in too many injuries. A few years ago, a local team canceled their last three games because of a depleted roster.
So for the most part, their careers end next Saturday. There will be a few exceptions, but most will never play on a team again.
Anyone who plays in the NFL lives on the edge. Their career can end on any given play. They can also be released whitout notice.
In all the years I have followed the NFL, very few players leave on their own terms. Most are told they can no longer play. Injuries are very cruel.
When LB Tedy Bruschi retired right before the start of 2009 season, he did so knowing that his knee would not carry him through the season. Coach Belichick said there was a roster spot for him, but I think Bruschi knew it was over.
He has made a good transition to a broadcaster and was very happy at his retirement press conference. I think he is one of the few.
I wonder what Ty Law thinks about his playing future. Does he have any more opportunities? Will he play again?
Friday, November 12, 2010
Only One Foot
Tom Brady missed practice on Wednesday because of a "foot sprain". Coach Belichick was his usual evasive self and said Brady would be evaluated "day to day". The injury report indicated a "foot sprain". That's a better desciption than a "lower leg injury".
We never know what Belichick means when he talks about injuries. Brady's shoulder has been on the injury report every week. It carries on a tradition that started several seasons ago.
We found out after last season that Brady played with broken ribs during several games. Once this season ends, we will probably hear that Brady had a broken bone in his foot.
Can you imagine if Belichick had a job "coding" medical procedures for insurance purposes? He would come up with some real classics.
We never know what Belichick means when he talks about injuries. Brady's shoulder has been on the injury report every week. It carries on a tradition that started several seasons ago.
We found out after last season that Brady played with broken ribs during several games. Once this season ends, we will probably hear that Brady had a broken bone in his foot.
Can you imagine if Belichick had a job "coding" medical procedures for insurance purposes? He would come up with some real classics.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
A Sighting of Fred
Fred Taylor was at practice yesterday and today. It looks like he might be ready to go on Sunday after missing the last six games with turf toe.
Taylor is in the last year of his contract and could be in the final stages of an illustrious career. During his time with the Pats, he has had trouble staying healthy and able to play.
The addition of Taylor could greatly help the Pats offense against the Steelers.They really need him during the second half of the season.
Taylor is in the last year of his contract and could be in the final stages of an illustrious career. During his time with the Pats, he has had trouble staying healthy and able to play.
The addition of Taylor could greatly help the Pats offense against the Steelers.They really need him during the second half of the season.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Just A Snap Away
Things happen very quickly in the NFL. Kicker Stephen Gostkowski had an injury against the Brown and was unable to finish the game. Coach Belichick said that he would be evaluated and would be "day to day".
Today, the team placed him on Injured Reserve after they signed Shayne Graham to replace him. They also released LS Jake Ingram.
This could have a huge effect on the rest of the season. Gostkowski was one of the best in the league for kicking the ball out of the end zone on kickoffs. He missed field goal attempts earlier in the season because of bad snaps from Ingram. Punter Zoltan Mesko also had some low snaps on punts.
Apparently, the long snapping deficiency was too much for Belichick and the coaching staff. Only Mesko remains as the holder. Having two new players in this three person group should prove to be a challenge against the Steelers.
I think when the season started, we all felt comfortable with the kicking group. Now, it has been torn apart because of injury and faulty play. It looked like Ingram was destined to be here for a long time after the team used a 6th round draft pick last year to select him. Gostkowski just signed a huge three year contract extension.
Who knows how this will all work out for the season or for Gostkowski next year.
Today, the team placed him on Injured Reserve after they signed Shayne Graham to replace him. They also released LS Jake Ingram.
This could have a huge effect on the rest of the season. Gostkowski was one of the best in the league for kicking the ball out of the end zone on kickoffs. He missed field goal attempts earlier in the season because of bad snaps from Ingram. Punter Zoltan Mesko also had some low snaps on punts.
Apparently, the long snapping deficiency was too much for Belichick and the coaching staff. Only Mesko remains as the holder. Having two new players in this three person group should prove to be a challenge against the Steelers.
I think when the season started, we all felt comfortable with the kicking group. Now, it has been torn apart because of injury and faulty play. It looked like Ingram was destined to be here for a long time after the team used a 6th round draft pick last year to select him. Gostkowski just signed a huge three year contract extension.
Who knows how this will all work out for the season or for Gostkowski next year.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Ultimate Job Security
It was inevitable that Wade Phillips would be fired by Jerry Jones, the owner of the Dallas Cowboys. His team was picked as one of the pre-season favorites to make it to the Super Bowl. After a 1-7 record, the axe has fallen on Phillips.
Jerry Jones is the same guy who fired Jimmy Johnson after two Super Bowl wins. There is no pleasing this guy. Jones serves as the team's GM and spokesperson. He has his own press conferences. His hand is in every detail of running the team.
As the owner, he has the right to do anything he pleases. He has made a lot of mistakes, causing the team to drift further away from their glory years.
He can continue to make mistakes and not get fired. He refuses to admit that he might be part of the problem. Any coach he hires will need to be a yes-man to him. You can certainly rule out John Gruden and Bill Cowher as future candidates.
I never understood why Jones doesn't name himself as the coach. He does everything, but call the plays.
Jerry Jones is the same guy who fired Jimmy Johnson after two Super Bowl wins. There is no pleasing this guy. Jones serves as the team's GM and spokesperson. He has his own press conferences. His hand is in every detail of running the team.
As the owner, he has the right to do anything he pleases. He has made a lot of mistakes, causing the team to drift further away from their glory years.
He can continue to make mistakes and not get fired. He refuses to admit that he might be part of the problem. Any coach he hires will need to be a yes-man to him. You can certainly rule out John Gruden and Bill Cowher as future candidates.
I never understood why Jones doesn't name himself as the coach. He does everything, but call the plays.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Just Another Loss
Probably the worst thing about the 34-14 loss to the Browns is that the story will continue to play out on local sports talk shows. The Pats were coming off a four game winning streak and had dealt with the Randy Moss trade. Some of the "experts" crowned them one of the elite teams in the league. Of course, a lot of that was based on their 6-1 record.
Before the season started, the "experts" had the Browns on the list of guaranteed. wins. I don't know why these guys think that any team is a sure win. The Lions gave the Jets a scare into overtime yesterday. The Steelers, Colts and Lions on Thanksgiving Day provide a daunting task ahead.
The game Sunday is going to be a huge challenge. I think it's good that the team lost. With so many younger players, the team is not used to getting their egos stroked by all of the "experts" and perhaps believed that each win is automatic.
If the Pats lose three more games before the end of the season, it should lead to at least a wild-card, although they missed out in 2008.
Pats fans have been spoiled by the three Super Bowl wins and the teams winning record. All of this attention comes in the era of 24x7 coverage with the media.
If they had this type of coverage on their other losing seasons in the 80's, it would have been crazy around here.
Nobody ever wants to lose a game. It happens at some point. The 2007 team is proof of that. I always believe they may have one the Super Bowl if they had not been given a win by the Ravens during their 16-0 run.
Before the season started, the "experts" had the Browns on the list of guaranteed. wins. I don't know why these guys think that any team is a sure win. The Lions gave the Jets a scare into overtime yesterday. The Steelers, Colts and Lions on Thanksgiving Day provide a daunting task ahead.
The game Sunday is going to be a huge challenge. I think it's good that the team lost. With so many younger players, the team is not used to getting their egos stroked by all of the "experts" and perhaps believed that each win is automatic.
If the Pats lose three more games before the end of the season, it should lead to at least a wild-card, although they missed out in 2008.
Pats fans have been spoiled by the three Super Bowl wins and the teams winning record. All of this attention comes in the era of 24x7 coverage with the media.
If they had this type of coverage on their other losing seasons in the 80's, it would have been crazy around here.
Nobody ever wants to lose a game. It happens at some point. The 2007 team is proof of that. I always believe they may have one the Super Bowl if they had not been given a win by the Ravens during their 16-0 run.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Feeding Randy
Now that Randy Moss has been claimed off waivers by the Titans, I hope that he does not launch into another tirade over the team's buffet. Last Friday, he spewed out an obscene rant directed at the caterer over the menu choices. Several of his teammates referred to him in expletive terms.
By league rules, he has five days to report to the Titans who are on their bye week. It will be interesting to see if Moss can become a contributor to his new team that has a 5-3 record or continue his train wreck.
By league rules, he has five days to report to the Titans who are on their bye week. It will be interesting to see if Moss can become a contributor to his new team that has a 5-3 record or continue his train wreck.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
A Risk For Rex
It can be risky to go on 4th and one, especially when considering field position. Coach Belichick has taken criticism even when things have worked out.
Coach Rex Ryan of the Jets was a big risk taker in his team's 9-0 loss against Green Bay last Sunday. The Jets faced a 4th and 18 on their own 20 yard line early in the first quarter. Ryan has given his punter, Steve Weatherford, the discretion to run if an opportunity opens up. He decided to do so on this play, but came up a couple of yards short. This resulted in the first of three field goals for Green Bay.
Considering their field position, I don't think this was the right call. It would have been different if they were at mid-field.
Coach Rex Ryan of the Jets was a big risk taker in his team's 9-0 loss against Green Bay last Sunday. The Jets faced a 4th and 18 on their own 20 yard line early in the first quarter. Ryan has given his punter, Steve Weatherford, the discretion to run if an opportunity opens up. He decided to do so on this play, but came up a couple of yards short. This resulted in the first of three field goals for Green Bay.
Considering their field position, I don't think this was the right call. It would have been different if they were at mid-field.
Monday, November 1, 2010
The Drama Club
The Pats have the best record in the NFL at 6-1. The mid-point of the season comes up next week in Cleveland. No doubt the Browns are great in all three phases of the game. I'm sure they have a lot of explosive players on offense, defense and special teams.
Things are out of control on some teams. Randy Moss got released by the Vikings. Coach Brad Childress teeters on the verge of being fired. Brett Favre and his illustrious career is getting them nowhere. It's panic time in Minnesota.
Dallas is 1-6 and Jerry Jones announced he has considered firing Coach Wade Phillips. Maybe he should fire himself. As team owner, he can be his own GM. He "buys all of the groceries".
Washington Redskin Coach Mike Shanahan gave a lame reason for pulling Donovan McNabb in the final two minutes during the 37-25 loss against the Lions.
Every team seems to have a problem. Here in New England, we are getting ready for the game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. Nothing else really matters.
At some point, Randy Moss will be signed and released by another team. It seems like he is destined to be here for the Super Bowl run. Things change fast.
Things are out of control on some teams. Randy Moss got released by the Vikings. Coach Brad Childress teeters on the verge of being fired. Brett Favre and his illustrious career is getting them nowhere. It's panic time in Minnesota.
Dallas is 1-6 and Jerry Jones announced he has considered firing Coach Wade Phillips. Maybe he should fire himself. As team owner, he can be his own GM. He "buys all of the groceries".
Washington Redskin Coach Mike Shanahan gave a lame reason for pulling Donovan McNabb in the final two minutes during the 37-25 loss against the Lions.
Every team seems to have a problem. Here in New England, we are getting ready for the game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. Nothing else really matters.
At some point, Randy Moss will be signed and released by another team. It seems like he is destined to be here for the Super Bowl run. Things change fast.
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