The NFL has a very dark side to it with the devastating injuries that players get. They have taken a very public stance in trying to make the game safer, especially by addressing the concussion issue.
Several players have come out publicly about this. Maurice Jones-Drew, the league's leading rusher, has stated that he would not tell the medical staff if he suffered a concussion. Others said the same. Players realize that if they are not on the field, someone else will take their place. Careers are short. Players are disposable.
Jones-Drew made a good point when he said the league is only concerned now because it is facing potentially devastating lawsuits from former players regarding their long-term injury issues.
The irony is that Jones-Drew will eventually become a former player and will deal with numerous health issues down the road.
It's a good thing to focus on concussions, but it's about 30 years too late for some former players.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
Going For 5,000
When Drew Bress broke Dan Marino's passing record last Monday, they stopped the game and had a celebration. He addressed the media after the game and spoke about what it meant to him. Before the game, Coach Sean Peyton mentioned what a special night it would be if Brees broke the record.
Somehow, I can't see this happening with Tom Brady and Coach Belichick. Brady never talks about personal accomplishments. It's all about the success of the team. Belichick would never have given a pre-game interview and provided any remarks about the record.
This brings us to the game on Sunday. Brady has a chance to reach 5,000 total yards of passing by entering the game with 4,897. He would be only the third quarterback to do it.
At the same time, there are all sorts of reports that Brady hurt his left shoulder against the Dolphins. Talk shows are buzzing about whether Brady should sit out the game and play again in two weeks in the playoffs. They cite his physical condition during the playoff run the last two years.
It looks like Brady will play and will probably go for the record . Belichick realizes the great milestone in front of Brady. Neither will acknowledge it, but it's starting both of them in the face.
I hope Brady gets the 5,000 yards, but at the same time, I hope it doesn't mean a one and done playoff run.
Somehow, I can't see this happening with Tom Brady and Coach Belichick. Brady never talks about personal accomplishments. It's all about the success of the team. Belichick would never have given a pre-game interview and provided any remarks about the record.
This brings us to the game on Sunday. Brady has a chance to reach 5,000 total yards of passing by entering the game with 4,897. He would be only the third quarterback to do it.
At the same time, there are all sorts of reports that Brady hurt his left shoulder against the Dolphins. Talk shows are buzzing about whether Brady should sit out the game and play again in two weeks in the playoffs. They cite his physical condition during the playoff run the last two years.
It looks like Brady will play and will probably go for the record . Belichick realizes the great milestone in front of Brady. Neither will acknowledge it, but it's starting both of them in the face.
I hope Brady gets the 5,000 yards, but at the same time, I hope it doesn't mean a one and done playoff run.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Brady Tempting Fate
Tom Brady can be perceived as a "glamour boy," but you can never doubt his toughness and the way he plays the games.
He took a hard hit against the Dolphins while running for a first down late in the 4th quarter. He has some type of left shoulder injury injury, but we will never know how bad or to what degree.
In every game, Brady does what he needs to do in order to help the team win. He places his body in harm's way on some of those plays. It's not always going to work out. He has gotten up slowing on more than one occasion.
It doesn't matter how old you are or how many years you have in the league. Injuries can happen at any moment. It's part of the game. I often wonder why it happens to some and not others.
Even some of the all-time great players had their career cut short from injury. The list is very long.
He took a hard hit against the Dolphins while running for a first down late in the 4th quarter. He has some type of left shoulder injury injury, but we will never know how bad or to what degree.
In every game, Brady does what he needs to do in order to help the team win. He places his body in harm's way on some of those plays. It's not always going to work out. He has gotten up slowing on more than one occasion.
It doesn't matter how old you are or how many years you have in the league. Injuries can happen at any moment. It's part of the game. I often wonder why it happens to some and not others.
Even some of the all-time great players had their career cut short from injury. The list is very long.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Supporting the Bengals
Pats fans can't seem to get excited over winning the Eastern Division for the 9th time in the last 12 years. Instead, all we hear is the talk about the defense, slow starting offense and the possibility of losing in their first playoff game.
Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals have a different scenario. A win on Sunday over Baltimore would give them a 10-6 record and the final AFC wild-card spot, with a chance to win their first playoff game since 1990.
Bengal fans have not been showing up. The stadium has usually been a third empty. Last Saturday, only 41,272 fans showed up to watch their 23-16 win over Arizona. Players have appealed to fans for support.
It's easy to see why the Bengals face this predicament. They have had several losing seasons. Head Coach Marvin Lewis is on the bubble with his contract. QB Carson Palmer forced the team to trade him to Oakland.
Fans are probably cautious of getting their hopes up knowing the past history of the team.
Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals have a different scenario. A win on Sunday over Baltimore would give them a 10-6 record and the final AFC wild-card spot, with a chance to win their first playoff game since 1990.
Bengal fans have not been showing up. The stadium has usually been a third empty. Last Saturday, only 41,272 fans showed up to watch their 23-16 win over Arizona. Players have appealed to fans for support.
It's easy to see why the Bengals face this predicament. They have had several losing seasons. Head Coach Marvin Lewis is on the bubble with his contract. QB Carson Palmer forced the team to trade him to Oakland.
Fans are probably cautious of getting their hopes up knowing the past history of the team.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
It's a New Season
Pats fans are worrying about the demise of the season after the first playoff game. Other teams are so happy they still have a shot at the playoffs. The Detroit Lions finally made it. So many teams are still involved going into the last week of the season.
The league always wanted parity. They really have it here. No doubt about it. The television networks like to show games that are still meaningful this time of year. The ratings are better.
Still, a dark cloud seems to hover over Patriot Nation. The team really needs to win a game in the playoffs. They need to beat Buffalo on Sunday to end the season. Things have been crazy with this team all season.
The playoffs start a whole new season.
The league always wanted parity. They really have it here. No doubt about it. The television networks like to show games that are still meaningful this time of year. The ratings are better.
Still, a dark cloud seems to hover over Patriot Nation. The team really needs to win a game in the playoffs. They need to beat Buffalo on Sunday to end the season. Things have been crazy with this team all season.
The playoffs start a whole new season.
Monday, December 26, 2011
More From Boomer
I have always been a fan of Chris Berman. The "Boomer" can come as a bag of hot air at times, but he has always been entertaining to me.
Tonight during the Monday Night Countdown, he did a segment on the post-game Patriots locker room after their win over the Dolphins that gave them a 12-3 record and first round bye.
He had a great comment in describing Belichick's mood after the win: "The paint is peeling on the house".
That is a classic summary of Belichick's mood. Berman is so insightful and colorful. Truly, one of the best ever.
Tonight during the Monday Night Countdown, he did a segment on the post-game Patriots locker room after their win over the Dolphins that gave them a 12-3 record and first round bye.
He had a great comment in describing Belichick's mood after the win: "The paint is peeling on the house".
That is a classic summary of Belichick's mood. Berman is so insightful and colorful. Truly, one of the best ever.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Not on Sunday at 1
The NFL has a license to print money with their television contract. They carefully manipulate the schedule of games. They faced a real problem this weekend with Christmas being on a Sunday.
The league decided to play all games on Saturday at 1pm except for two at 4:15 in other time zones. They faced a real quandary with the Jets and Giants game yesterday. It had potential to draw a large television audience at 4:15 under normal circumstances, but the league drew criticism for potentially keeping fans out too late on Christmas Eve. Many fans, including this writer, were unable to watch a great game.
The NFL ceded the Sunday daytime to the NBA and a college bowl game. They knew it would be a good idea to keep their Sunday night game. The Green Bay and Chicago match-up is a great one between two division rivals in the Central Time Zone.
The game started after 8:30, but was 5:30 on the west coast. They really know how to work the schedule to get the biggest audience
The league decided to play all games on Saturday at 1pm except for two at 4:15 in other time zones. They faced a real quandary with the Jets and Giants game yesterday. It had potential to draw a large television audience at 4:15 under normal circumstances, but the league drew criticism for potentially keeping fans out too late on Christmas Eve. Many fans, including this writer, were unable to watch a great game.
The NFL ceded the Sunday daytime to the NBA and a college bowl game. They knew it would be a good idea to keep their Sunday night game. The Green Bay and Chicago match-up is a great one between two division rivals in the Central Time Zone.
The game started after 8:30, but was 5:30 on the west coast. They really know how to work the schedule to get the biggest audience
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Another Bad Win
The Pats may have won today by a score of 27-24 over the Miami Dolphins, but continue to give fans reason for concern. A win is a win, but he team looked horrible on offense during the first half.
Brady got it going during the second half. Unfortunately, he took a shot to his head while running for a first down late in the game. The announcers thought he was favoring his shoulder immediately after.
The season is very fragile at this point. They don't need to have Brady get hurt. With one week to go, questions remains unanswered. Hopefully, the season doesn't end the weekend of the 15th.
Brady got it going during the second half. Unfortunately, he took a shot to his head while running for a first down late in the game. The announcers thought he was favoring his shoulder immediately after.
The season is very fragile at this point. They don't need to have Brady get hurt. With one week to go, questions remains unanswered. Hopefully, the season doesn't end the weekend of the 15th.
Friday, December 23, 2011
A Case for the "D"
Pats fans have driven themselves to a level of complacency. There has been little excitement about wining the Easter Division title for the ninth time in the last 12 years. Fans feel a sense of entitlement with the playoffs.
Sports talk radio is full of chatter about the horrible state of the Pats defense. Some say that they will never get past the first round of playoffs. No matter what, the team keeps on winning.
I read some analysis of the Pats defense which puts things into a better perspective. They are among the worst in yards allowed, but yards don't always translate into points. The Pats have given up 297 points,ranking 16th in the league.
They are fifth in Red Zone defense, giving up points only 20% of the time. Their best stat is the +12 in turnovers. Only San Francisco and Green Bay are better.
This year's team is notorious for giving up large chucks of yardage, but if they keep the points off the board, they will be ok. At this stage of the season, it's about trying to keep players healthy. The loss of Andre Carter was big, but the team will move on.
Two wins over Miami and Buffalo will secure the #1 seed in the AFC. That will go a long ways towards the final goal, although the team has lost their last two home playoffs games.
Sports talk radio is full of chatter about the horrible state of the Pats defense. Some say that they will never get past the first round of playoffs. No matter what, the team keeps on winning.
I read some analysis of the Pats defense which puts things into a better perspective. They are among the worst in yards allowed, but yards don't always translate into points. The Pats have given up 297 points,ranking 16th in the league.
They are fifth in Red Zone defense, giving up points only 20% of the time. Their best stat is the +12 in turnovers. Only San Francisco and Green Bay are better.
This year's team is notorious for giving up large chucks of yardage, but if they keep the points off the board, they will be ok. At this stage of the season, it's about trying to keep players healthy. The loss of Andre Carter was big, but the team will move on.
Two wins over Miami and Buffalo will secure the #1 seed in the AFC. That will go a long ways towards the final goal, although the team has lost their last two home playoffs games.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Picking the Players
There is no fair or sensible way to select the players for the Pro Bowl. Selection to the team is part of anyone's resume on the way to the Hall of Fame. Canton is filled with perennial Pro Bowl players.
The league decided to get the fans involved a few years ago. People can go to the league's website and vote as many times as they want. The fan vote receives a weighted score, along with the votes by the players and coaches.
Every year there are questionable selections. Brandon Merriweather made it in the past and now he rides the bench in Chicago.
If I had the final say, it would be the players, coaches and some members of the media who make the final selections.
The league decided to get the fans involved a few years ago. People can go to the league's website and vote as many times as they want. The fan vote receives a weighted score, along with the votes by the players and coaches.
Every year there are questionable selections. Brandon Merriweather made it in the past and now he rides the bench in Chicago.
If I had the final say, it would be the players, coaches and some members of the media who make the final selections.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
The Clock Ticks On Wes
Contract decisions always come down to the dollar value when it concerns the Pats. Bill Parcells once said that you grow old overnight in the NFL. That appears to be the case of Wes Welker while listening to talk radio today.
Welker, 32, will be a free agent at the end of the year. The team could give him the franchise tag which would pay him about $9 million for one season. That would solve the problem for one year, but not for the long term.
Do you give a player such as Welker a three year contract when you know he is getting older and had major knee surgery?
Listening to some of the callers, one would think that Welker was in the twi-light of his career. It seems like a potential risk to invest so many dollars in a player who gets hit a lot and will probably start to lose some of his edge.
Welker is such a huge part of the team's offense. How do you replace him? Callers have been talking about some of the receivers available in next April's draft, but this sounds like Chad Jackson all over again.
If the Pats pay Welker, they will inevitably need to ante up for Rob Gronkowski. The salary cap allows for only so many dollars to be spent. I don't think they want to go with a trio of old receivers in Welker, Deion Branch and Chad Ochocinco next season.
Many decisions will need to be made after the season ends.
Welker, 32, will be a free agent at the end of the year. The team could give him the franchise tag which would pay him about $9 million for one season. That would solve the problem for one year, but not for the long term.
Do you give a player such as Welker a three year contract when you know he is getting older and had major knee surgery?
Listening to some of the callers, one would think that Welker was in the twi-light of his career. It seems like a potential risk to invest so many dollars in a player who gets hit a lot and will probably start to lose some of his edge.
Welker is such a huge part of the team's offense. How do you replace him? Callers have been talking about some of the receivers available in next April's draft, but this sounds like Chad Jackson all over again.
If the Pats pay Welker, they will inevitably need to ante up for Rob Gronkowski. The salary cap allows for only so many dollars to be spent. I don't think they want to go with a trio of old receivers in Welker, Deion Branch and Chad Ochocinco next season.
Many decisions will need to be made after the season ends.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
The Tale of Takeo
LB Takeo Spikes of the San Diego Chargers recently played his 201st game. He has lasted 14 years in the league after being drafted 13th overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1998. He holds the distinction of leading the league in games played without ever making it to the playoffs.
It seems hard to imagine that a player of his caliber has never played in January other than in the Pro Bowl. He has also played for the Bills, Eagles and Lions before his current stop in San Diego.
He always ended up on a team with a losing record. The tale of Spikes is not unique. So many players never play in a "big" game. Careers are short. Not everyone makes the big money.Players get long term injuries.
Not everyone goes to the Super Bowl or a Conference Championship game. At times, the game is not that glamorous.
It seems hard to imagine that a player of his caliber has never played in January other than in the Pro Bowl. He has also played for the Bills, Eagles and Lions before his current stop in San Diego.
He always ended up on a team with a losing record. The tale of Spikes is not unique. So many players never play in a "big" game. Careers are short. Not everyone makes the big money.Players get long term injuries.
Not everyone goes to the Super Bowl or a Conference Championship game. At times, the game is not that glamorous.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Losing With Denver Through The Years
That Pats have their work cut out for them today when they face the Broncos in Denver. The career series is very one-sided, with Denver owning a winning record of 25-16. At one point, they had 10 straight wins over the Pats going into the late 1990's.
Tom Brady has a carer record of 1-5 with Denver, the only team he has a losing record against. Among the losses was the 27-13 Divisional Playoff game on January 14, 2006.
Based on the league's scheduling system, Brady might not get enough opportunities to change his record in the upcoming years.
No matter what happens today, the airwaves will be filled with Tim Tebow talk after the game and all of next week. Fans need to realize that the quarterback can make a difference, but he cannot win without the other 10 players doing their jobs.
Tom Brady has a carer record of 1-5 with Denver, the only team he has a losing record against. Among the losses was the 27-13 Divisional Playoff game on January 14, 2006.
Based on the league's scheduling system, Brady might not get enough opportunities to change his record in the upcoming years.
No matter what happens today, the airwaves will be filled with Tim Tebow talk after the game and all of next week. Fans need to realize that the quarterback can make a difference, but he cannot win without the other 10 players doing their jobs.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Bowling Days
Today is the beginning of the college bowl game season. College football junkies can get their fill of 35 games, starting with three today and one every day, except for Christmas Day and January 5th. It all concludes with the BCS Championship game on January 9th.
With 70 teams making a bowl appearance, it means that there will be a bunch of teams with less than stellar records. Schools like to go to bowls because of the cash dangled in front of them by broadcast rights.
ESPN keeps it going by televising 31 of the games, including two on ESPN2 and one on ESPNU ABC has two while CBS and Fox have one each. NBC decided to stay away from them.
Fans can start the afternoon with the New Mexico Bowl featuring a pair of 8-4 teams with Wyoming and Temple. The Idaho Potato Bowl follows with Utah (7-5) against Ohio (9-4). The evening caps off with the New Orleans Bowl featuring a pair of 8-4 teams with Lafayette and San Diego State.
Tomorrow night, football fans have the choice of watching the NFL with Baltimore at San Diego or they can switch to the Beef O'Brady Bowl with Florida International (8-4) taking on Marshall (6-6).
New year's Eve has a game which will be a real "barn-burner" between UCLA (6-7) and Illinois (6-6).
In the end, it's all about the broadcast rights, ratings and ad revenue. The games are secondary. The schools are happy as long as they make money.
With 70 teams making a bowl appearance, it means that there will be a bunch of teams with less than stellar records. Schools like to go to bowls because of the cash dangled in front of them by broadcast rights.
ESPN keeps it going by televising 31 of the games, including two on ESPN2 and one on ESPNU ABC has two while CBS and Fox have one each. NBC decided to stay away from them.
Fans can start the afternoon with the New Mexico Bowl featuring a pair of 8-4 teams with Wyoming and Temple. The Idaho Potato Bowl follows with Utah (7-5) against Ohio (9-4). The evening caps off with the New Orleans Bowl featuring a pair of 8-4 teams with Lafayette and San Diego State.
Tomorrow night, football fans have the choice of watching the NFL with Baltimore at San Diego or they can switch to the Beef O'Brady Bowl with Florida International (8-4) taking on Marshall (6-6).
New year's Eve has a game which will be a real "barn-burner" between UCLA (6-7) and Illinois (6-6).
In the end, it's all about the broadcast rights, ratings and ad revenue. The games are secondary. The schools are happy as long as they make money.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Plenty of Openings
With three games left in the season, three coaches have already been fired with the axe falling on Todd Haley, Tony Sparano and Jack DelRio. The end of the season will open the door for more to leave from teams with bad records
After the 2008 season, 11 coaches were fired. Several of those replacement coaches never made it past two seasons with the likes of Haley, Tom Cable, Mike Singletary, Eric Mangini, Josh Mc Daniels and Jim Mora.
It really emphasizes how unique the situation is in Foxborough where coach Belichick is wrapping up his 12 season with the team.
After the 2008 season, 11 coaches were fired. Several of those replacement coaches never made it past two seasons with the likes of Haley, Tom Cable, Mike Singletary, Eric Mangini, Josh Mc Daniels and Jim Mora.
It really emphasizes how unique the situation is in Foxborough where coach Belichick is wrapping up his 12 season with the team.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Hard Time For T.O.
Many players never know when to leave the game. They stay long after their skills have diminished, but they are still good enough to earn a roster spot on a team.
WR Terrell Owens is still trying to hook up with a team. It doesn't look too promising for him, especially after he held a tryout for himself last month, but nobody showed up except a crew from he NFL Network.
Owens is in the news for being behind in child support payments with three different women for a total of $35,000. This is not the first time for him as he struggles to make his payments. He recently sold a condo in Dallas for $1.95 million, but it for $350,000 less than what he paid for it.
He might have a career in reality television once he calls it quits, but his scenario is so typical of players in the league. Owens has earned millions, but it looks like he is counting his pennies and struggling to keep up with support payments. It's only going to get worse for him as he gets older.
WR Terrell Owens is still trying to hook up with a team. It doesn't look too promising for him, especially after he held a tryout for himself last month, but nobody showed up except a crew from he NFL Network.
Owens is in the news for being behind in child support payments with three different women for a total of $35,000. This is not the first time for him as he struggles to make his payments. He recently sold a condo in Dallas for $1.95 million, but it for $350,000 less than what he paid for it.
He might have a career in reality television once he calls it quits, but his scenario is so typical of players in the league. Owens has earned millions, but it looks like he is counting his pennies and struggling to keep up with support payments. It's only going to get worse for him as he gets older.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
The Dallas Guys
I can't figure out Dallas with Jerry Jones, Jason Garrett, Rob Ryan and Tony Romo. The team is 7-6. It's now or never for the Cowboys. They need to make the playoffs.
I think Rob Ryan has been over-exposed at the expense of the team. The networks only focus on him. They could care less about head coach Jason Garrett. Jerry Jones gets his face time in. Rob Ryan will be a head coach next season for some team one way or the other.
The Cowboys need to run the table to make sure they get into the playoffs. That won't be easy. It might not happen.
I think Rob Ryan has been over-exposed at the expense of the team. The networks only focus on him. They could care less about head coach Jason Garrett. Jerry Jones gets his face time in. Rob Ryan will be a head coach next season for some team one way or the other.
The Cowboys need to run the table to make sure they get into the playoffs. That won't be easy. It might not happen.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
A Good Replay
The Pats and Redskins are replaying their game on the NFL Network tonight . I enjoy watching these programs, but I wish they didn't cut out parts of the games. It's all done in the interest of programming and keeping the game from being too long.
They insert some interesting commentary, but also have breaks for the regular NFL Network updates and commercials.That cuts into the amount of time to show the replay of the game.
Having watched a number of these replays, it seems like they eliminate some incomplete passes or runs that go for no yardage in order to save time.
Overall, I think they do a very good job with the broadcast.
They insert some interesting commentary, but also have breaks for the regular NFL Network updates and commercials.That cuts into the amount of time to show the replay of the game.
Having watched a number of these replays, it seems like they eliminate some incomplete passes or runs that go for no yardage in order to save time.
Overall, I think they do a very good job with the broadcast.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Future Playoffs
Yesterday's verbal clash between Tom Brady and coach Bill O'Brien on the sidelines will become iconic film footage documenting the future Hall of Famer.
It was a career moment and the topic on local sports talk shows. It was surprising to see Brady sprint to the sideline after his interception and get into his tussle with O'Brien. They were both really going at it, yelling and screaming.
Naturally, they won the game and Brady said all the right things at his post game press conference. He has that unique ability to smile with his teeth while talking. He always makes it look better than it is.
I think he is starting to realize that at age 34, the defense on this team is going to end their season in the playoffs no matter what type of numbers he puts up. It must get better if he wants another shot at a Super Bowl.
It was a career moment and the topic on local sports talk shows. It was surprising to see Brady sprint to the sideline after his interception and get into his tussle with O'Brien. They were both really going at it, yelling and screaming.
Naturally, they won the game and Brady said all the right things at his post game press conference. He has that unique ability to smile with his teeth while talking. He always makes it look better than it is.
I think he is starting to realize that at age 34, the defense on this team is going to end their season in the playoffs no matter what type of numbers he puts up. It must get better if he wants another shot at a Super Bowl.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Got By Again
It was an exciting 34-27 win by the Pats over the Redskins today. The game turned into a shootout with both teams marching up and down the filed and putting lots of point up on the board. It came down to the final seconds until the interception by Jerod Mayo.
Although the Pats are now 10-3, I am quite concerned over their defense and the secondary's inability not to give up big plays.
This season has 2010 written all over it. They are still having a hard time closing out games. It seems they beat teams as long as they score 30. The defense cannot keep playing like this. They have been decimated by injuries, but so have many other teams at this point of the season.
If they had lost today, it would not have been the end of the season, but if they keep playing like this on defense, it will be a one game post-season.
Although the Pats are now 10-3, I am quite concerned over their defense and the secondary's inability not to give up big plays.
This season has 2010 written all over it. They are still having a hard time closing out games. It seems they beat teams as long as they score 30. The defense cannot keep playing like this. They have been decimated by injuries, but so have many other teams at this point of the season.
If they had lost today, it would not have been the end of the season, but if they keep playing like this on defense, it will be a one game post-season.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Disregard the Physical Effects
There were some great examples last night of the extreme measures players take to continue playing in games during the Steelers 14-3 win over the Browns.
Browns QB Colt McCoy suffered an obvious concussion, but stayed in the game. His post game press conference was shortened so that the bright lights would not bother his eyes. McCoy's father told the press that his son should have been removed from the game and was risking further medical problems with his continued play.
Roethlisberger was sent to the locker room late in the second quarter after he took a vicious hit and had his left ankle bent in an awkward position.You could see the pain in his face as he limped with a great degree of difficulty.
When the teams came back for the third quarter, Roethlisberger was back in the ball game. He threw for 179 yards during the second half, but was limited in his mobility. The Steelers edged out the Browns, but at what cost?
Roethlisberger did not break any bones, but must have been heavily medicated to be able to play on an ankle that looked severely sprained. Such is life in the NFL. Pay today and worry about the long term physical effects some other time.
Browns QB Colt McCoy suffered an obvious concussion, but stayed in the game. His post game press conference was shortened so that the bright lights would not bother his eyes. McCoy's father told the press that his son should have been removed from the game and was risking further medical problems with his continued play.
Roethlisberger was sent to the locker room late in the second quarter after he took a vicious hit and had his left ankle bent in an awkward position.You could see the pain in his face as he limped with a great degree of difficulty.
When the teams came back for the third quarter, Roethlisberger was back in the ball game. He threw for 179 yards during the second half, but was limited in his mobility. The Steelers edged out the Browns, but at what cost?
Roethlisberger did not break any bones, but must have been heavily medicated to be able to play on an ankle that looked severely sprained. Such is life in the NFL. Pay today and worry about the long term physical effects some other time.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Cloudy Future
I just read the book "Throwaway Players" by Gay Culverhouse. She is a former executive with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers when her family owned the team from the late 70's and early 80's.
The book is highly critical of the concussion crisis facing all levels of football. She has also started a non-profit organization to assist former NFL players with disability issues.
The book has several profiles of former players who met untimely deaths exacerbated from the toll of playing such a violent game.
It seems like nobody leaves the league without being broken down physically later on in life. Many of the analysts on the NFL Network and others are facing their own personal crisis as they get older.
Last night, I watched a segment of Tom Brady and Coach Belichick being miced up for the Colts game last week. Brady's microphone picked up the violent nature of his various hits during the game.
I'm sure he will have his own physical issues 20 years from now.
The book is highly critical of the concussion crisis facing all levels of football. She has also started a non-profit organization to assist former NFL players with disability issues.
The book has several profiles of former players who met untimely deaths exacerbated from the toll of playing such a violent game.
It seems like nobody leaves the league without being broken down physically later on in life. Many of the analysts on the NFL Network and others are facing their own personal crisis as they get older.
Last night, I watched a segment of Tom Brady and Coach Belichick being miced up for the Colts game last week. Brady's microphone picked up the violent nature of his various hits during the game.
I'm sure he will have his own physical issues 20 years from now.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Redskins & Tebow
Everything is lining up for a classic game on December 18th with Tim Bebow in Denver at 4:15pm. Fans have gone crazy over this guy. We seem to be talking Tim Tebow and not the game with the Denver Broncos on that date.
There will be a lot of hype with this game. I have no idea what will happen in Tebow's career. He plays the game so differently, but so refreshing. I like his style of play, but wonder how he can sustain this over a long period of time in the NFL
The Denver Broncos have a long and storied history with the Pats. I'm sure Coach Belichick appreciates all of that, but is only be concerned with playing the Washington Redskins on Sunday.
It doesn't matter about Tim Tebow this week.
There will be a lot of hype with this game. I have no idea what will happen in Tebow's career. He plays the game so differently, but so refreshing. I like his style of play, but wonder how he can sustain this over a long period of time in the NFL
The Denver Broncos have a long and storied history with the Pats. I'm sure Coach Belichick appreciates all of that, but is only be concerned with playing the Washington Redskins on Sunday.
It doesn't matter about Tim Tebow this week.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Taking the Fun Out
The NFL is doing a great job taking the fun out of any touchdown celebration. Spiking the ball can be very costly as Rob Gronkowski can testify to the tune of $7,500. Throwing a ball into the stands can cost $15,000.
The league claims it wants to crack down on taunting. I'm all for eliminating some of the "in your face" stuff that gets extreme.
Much of this is rooted in eliminating taunting behavior at an early age. I thought it was outrageous that a Massachusetts team lost their "Super Bowl" post-season game because their quarterback raised his arm as he crossed the goal line. The TD was nullified and that ended up being the difference in the game.
Officials need to use some type of common sense when interpreting the rules. This wasn't done here. I understand the "spirit" of the taunting rule, but the officials are turning football into a boring game played by a bunch of players who are afraid to express their emotion out of fear of hurting their team.
The league claims it wants to crack down on taunting. I'm all for eliminating some of the "in your face" stuff that gets extreme.
Much of this is rooted in eliminating taunting behavior at an early age. I thought it was outrageous that a Massachusetts team lost their "Super Bowl" post-season game because their quarterback raised his arm as he crossed the goal line. The TD was nullified and that ended up being the difference in the game.
Officials need to use some type of common sense when interpreting the rules. This wasn't done here. I understand the "spirit" of the taunting rule, but the officials are turning football into a boring game played by a bunch of players who are afraid to express their emotion out of fear of hurting their team.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Booing Adam
Just because someone calls themselves a "fan" doesn't mean that they can be expected to make intelligent comments about their team or conduct themselves in a classy manner.
I could not believe that Pats fans booed Adam Vinatieri during the Colts game yesterday. He made some of the most important kicks in the history of the franchise. Without his kicks in the "Snow Game," there is no Super Bowl against the Rams after the 2001 season.
To think that he had two kicks that decided the outcome of the Super Bowl is quite extraordinary. To boo him shows that these fans have no clue about the history of the team.
When he left as a free agent to sign with the Colts it was for five years and $12.5 million. That was twice what the Pats offered him. How can you expect someone to turn that type of money down?
What were these"fans" thinking yesterday?
I could not believe that Pats fans booed Adam Vinatieri during the Colts game yesterday. He made some of the most important kicks in the history of the franchise. Without his kicks in the "Snow Game," there is no Super Bowl against the Rams after the 2001 season.
To think that he had two kicks that decided the outcome of the Super Bowl is quite extraordinary. To boo him shows that these fans have no clue about the history of the team.
When he left as a free agent to sign with the Colts it was for five years and $12.5 million. That was twice what the Pats offered him. How can you expect someone to turn that type of money down?
What were these"fans" thinking yesterday?
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Not Closing It Out
Coach Belichick had a very short press conference after the 31-24 win over the Colts. They lead 31-3 before they let the Colts run up and down the field and bring them within one touchdown. This should never have happened. This is what fans are concerned about . It reminded me of the closing moments of the Super Bowl loss against the Giants and the lost two playoff losses.
They need to close out the game. It sounds like a cliche, but it's so true. They are winning games, but not dominating teams like they should have done today.When the Colts play the Pats to within seven points, it makes you wonder how they can be 0-12. Something doesn't make sense here, but that is the NFL for you.
They need to close out the game. It sounds like a cliche, but it's so true. They are winning games, but not dominating teams like they should have done today.When the Colts play the Pats to within seven points, it makes you wonder how they can be 0-12. Something doesn't make sense here, but that is the NFL for you.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Colts?
We can talk about the 1pm and 4:15 kickoffs for the Sunday games, but tomorrow is really good to kickoff at 1Pm. It's been quite some time since we had those 1pm games. Success gets you on later times. It's a shame this game with the Colts is viewed as such a downer.
I understand their point. I can't figure out what happened to the Colts this year. They should have won games with their defense. How do go 0-11? This is so wrong to play this game like this. They should have a better record.
I understand their point. I can't figure out what happened to the Colts this year. They should have won games with their defense. How do go 0-11? This is so wrong to play this game like this. They should have a better record.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Parting Ways
Rumors are surfacing that QB Peyton Manning might try and practice before the season is over. His medical report has been optimistic about the fusion of vertebrae in his neck.
There is a lot on the line here. Manning is due a $28 million roster bonus at the start of the league's new business year in March. If they pay him, they could then trade him, but to who?
He has a very clouded future at the age of 35. The Colts face a public relations nightmare if they outright release a future Hall of Fame quarterback who has been the face of the franchise since 1998. However, he is not their future.
The most logical thing is for Manning to retire. With all of the money at stake, the issue of his future health becomes secondary for all sides involved. That is very unfortunate.
I always wonder when the clock will run on Tom Brady.
There is a lot on the line here. Manning is due a $28 million roster bonus at the start of the league's new business year in March. If they pay him, they could then trade him, but to who?
He has a very clouded future at the age of 35. The Colts face a public relations nightmare if they outright release a future Hall of Fame quarterback who has been the face of the franchise since 1998. However, he is not their future.
The most logical thing is for Manning to retire. With all of the money at stake, the issue of his future health becomes secondary for all sides involved. That is very unfortunate.
I always wonder when the clock will run on Tom Brady.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Dan Who?
The Indianapolis Colts will start QB Dan Orlovsky on Sunday against the Pats. He is the third signal caller for the Colts during their doomed season. The start will give the seven year veteran a chance at reviving his career.
He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the 5th round of the 2005 draft. He appeared in two games, completing 7 of 17 attempts for 63 yards. He sat on the bench for 2006 and 2007 before taking over the starting job during the 0-16 run for the Lions in 2008. He appeared in 10 games, completing 143 of 255 passes for 1,616 yards. He was with Houston for 2009 and 2010 and appeared in one game, but had no pass attempts.
He is far from the future of the Colts as they march towards a winless season. To his credit, he has lasted seven years in the NFL. That is almost twice as ling as the average career.
He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the 5th round of the 2005 draft. He appeared in two games, completing 7 of 17 attempts for 63 yards. He sat on the bench for 2006 and 2007 before taking over the starting job during the 0-16 run for the Lions in 2008. He appeared in 10 games, completing 143 of 255 passes for 1,616 yards. He was with Houston for 2009 and 2010 and appeared in one game, but had no pass attempts.
He is far from the future of the Colts as they march towards a winless season. To his credit, he has lasted seven years in the NFL. That is almost twice as ling as the average career.
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