Okay bit late in the season, but I intend to preview every week of the NFL season with some general opinion, fantasy advice and picks:
Chiefs at Eagles
Andy Reid makes his return to Philadelphia with his Chiefs currently 2-0 following their narrow victory over the luckless Dallas Cowboys. The Eagles lost at home to the San Diego Chargers due to giving a quality quarterback like Philip Rivers too much time. They gave the Chargers just under two minutes to get into field goal range, so maybe Chip Kelly should buy himself a watch instead of a new playbook.
However, I feel the Eagles will bounce back as they will not commit as many penalties as they did on Sunday which chalked off two big touchdowns. The Chiefs will keep it tight and will rely upon wide receiver play as the Eagles have stopped the run pretty well thus far.
Prediction: Eagles by 3
Packers at Bengals
This could conceivably be the match-up of the weekend as two very highly rated teams will duke it out. Again it comes down to run defence, can the Packers stop the one-two punch of the LawFirm and Giovanni Bernard which they have done thus far; they stopped Alfred Morris and plugged up Frank Gore in week 1 forcing Kaepernick to throw for 400 yards.
However, the other match-up is which quarterback do you want. Rodgers or Dalton? And if you even bothered reading the second name then you are a Bengals sympathiser. Rodgers threw for 400 yards and did so easily utilising all of his receivers - Nelson, Cobb, Jones, Finley.
Prediction: Packers by 6
Rams at Cowboys
The Cowboys did some silly mistakes and had their usual mix of bad luck yet Tony Romo could and maybe should have won, however, the defence is still looking good and should do enough against the Rams who went 21-0 down on the road to the Falcons before a late fightback led by Tavon Austin's first touchdown receptions.
Sam Bradford is solid and if he has less turnovers than Romo, then the Rams might run them close. Yet for me home field advantage is the key to this yet it will be close.
Prediction: Cowboys by 2
Chargers at Titans
The Titans are on an upward curve and will wonder how they let a division victory turn into a defeat at the Texans who nabbed them in OT thanks to DeAndre Hopkins. The Chargers bounced back from their own disaster versus the Texans with the impressive road victory versus the Eagles. So for the right to be named the best team to lose to the Texans this season, we have this intriguing head to head. The Titans defence may hold the key to this as they have made both Big Ben and Matt Schaub look pretty naïve in selection process. Its also the Titans home opener so for me the Titans should get a big day from Chris Johnson and if you have Kendall Wright in fantasy, seek him out.
Prediction: Titans by 4
Browns at Vikings
It has been announced that Brian Hoyer will start for the Cleveland Browns this Sunday. Take a breathe and read that. The Browns think they can beat a steady side like the Vikings with a third string quarterback, and a team that cannot defend the run well face the number one running back in the NFL, Adrian Peterson. Christian Ponder has a deep weapon in Jerome Simpson, but if he does what he does and does not commit turnovers this could be a big win for the Vikings.
Prediction: Vikings by 7
Buccaneers at Patriots
The Bucs are probably the most unlucky 0-2 team in the NFL, and it might not get easier as they travel to Fortress Foxboro to face the undefeated Patriots (I am a New England fan if you didn't know). However, the Patriots barely got past the Jets in a rain-soaked affair with question marks over the receiving core who impressed so much in training camp. Word is that Rob Gronkowski will be returning this week having trained this week. The Bucs threw away victory over the Saints at home much like they lost on the road to the Jets. So the Bucs lost to the Jets, the Jets lost to the Pats. The Pats should beat the Bucs.
Prediction: Pats by 7
Cardinals at Saints
The Saints are 2-0 but not been that convincing, still requiring all the components to click to the greatest effect. The defence has improved and they can win ugly. The Cardinals upset the Lions at home and have a lot of highly skilled players, however, they are only individuals and not much of a team at the moment. Expect the Saints D to bully and hassle Carson Palmer to numerous turnovers.
Prediction: Saints by 9
Lions at Redskins
The Redskins are in trouble, RG3 is not the same person or player at the moment. He is reluctant to run and is not throwing well, with Morris not getting much joy from his running game. The Lions have the weapons and a lot depends on the presence of Reggie Bush and if he starts this Sunday. Once Bush, departed the Arizona game on Sunday, that allowed the Cardinals to double team Calvin Johnson without the worry of a backfield presence who could punish them in Bush. The Lions should win this but it could be a high scoring affair due to the number of mistakes possible.
Prediction: Lions by 3
Giants at Panthers
The Panthers are unlucky also, they somehow lost to the Bills (who still can improve), and the Giants are also 0-2. The Giants have the weapons, yet I remember Cam Newton ripping apart a Giants defence in his rookie year. Newton has not been able to do that yet this season, we await it with bated breath. There is no alarm for the Giants just yet, but maybe Tom Coughlin could be on a hotter seat if they succumb to this inferior opponent. This is a tough one to call for me, my mind says Giants based on player level yet the Panthers could quite well surprise in this one.
Prediction: Panthers by 2
Texans at Ravens
The Ravens may be without Ray Rice (hip) but have a capable replacement in Bernard Pierce and have a receiving core with rookie Marlon Brown looking strong. The 2-0 Texans have been far from convincing, the defence is stellar but have conceded 20+ points in two games and could be without Andre Johnson (concussion) although DeAndre Hopkins offers hope.
Prediction: Ravens by 5
Falcons at Dolphins
The Dolphins are turning heads, thanks to the consistency of Ryan Tannehill and the defence who shut down Andrew Luck and avoided a fourth quarter comeback from him. They are also getting plays from rookie Lamar Millar and Clay who had a huge receiving day. The Falcons will definitely be without Steven Jackson for 4-6 weeks with no obvious back-up and have concerns over Roddy White's high ankle sprain meaning more work for Julio Jones and Tony Gonzalez. The Dolphins are a team I have picked against in both encounters thus far. Not this time, Dolphins for the upset.
Prediction: Dolphins by 6
Bills at Jets
Both of these teams are better than people thought they would be. I knew the Bills would be better than thought and were unlucky to not beat the Patriots in week 1; EJ Manuel got the job done versus the Panthers last week. This week at the Meadowlands will be a running back battle as the Bills' CJ Spiller and Fred Jackson take on the Jets' Bilal Powell and Chris Ivory. This will be low scoring like both Jets encounters so far, and I think the Jets' upward curve is just that little higher if Geno Smith avoids a bonehead interception when in field goal range as he had last week
Prediciton: Jets by 2
Colts at 49ers
Its the master versus the pupil as for the first time, Jim Harbaugh faces off against Andrew Luck for the first time since they both left Stanford. Harbaugh has one of the better NFL teams at his disposal and Luck will get there eventually. The 49ers need to bounce back after the humiliating defeat in Seattle, and need to get back to basics with Kaepernick, hence make him throw from the pocket and run second or scramble. The Colts will score touchdowns they always do and will always make it close due to their spirit, however I feel the Niners will want to make a statement this week.
Prediction: 49ers by 10
Jaguars at Seahawks
The best team in the NFL versus the worst team in the NFL. The pitiful Jaguars average 5.5 points through two games and the quarterback has been sacked 11 times total. Not good statistics when facing the best defence in the league, at home, where they are unbeatable. There could be an after the Lords Mayor show feel for the 12th man fans but Pete Carroll could easily run up the score against this opposition. Question: Which will score more fantasy points this week? Russell Wilson or the Seahawks defence
Prediction: Seahawks by 17
Bears at Steelers
Sunday Night on Channel 4, brings us the rampant Bears on the road at the declining Steelers. Jay Cutler still has turnovers but has won two close games and the defence is doing okay, whereas the Steelers defence is depleted, the D-line cannot stop the run nor pressurise the quarterback. The Bears have enough weapons in the backfield and downfield to make this sorry Steelers look shameful.
Prediction: Bears by 9
Raiders at Broncos
Who at ESPN thought this would be a good game for Monday Night Football? A divisional battle yes, but the Broncos are rampant and whilst Tyrelle Pryor offers promise at the position, he is nowhere near to the quarterback status of Peyton Manning who has 11 touchdowns already through two games. Muck like the previous two selections, this could be one way traffic and more than likely another double digit victory for the Broncos. However, a word of warning, the Super Bowl is won in February not September.
Prediction: Broncos by 12
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Showing posts with label Philadelphia Eagles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philadelphia Eagles. Show all posts
Wednesday, 18 September 2013
Thursday, 26 April 2012
Hall of Fame: McNabb v Dawkins
Two players who will forever be remembered as Philadelphia Eagles have both made statements in the last week; one has done it with dignity and humility you would expect, the other is making noises that louder the more insignificant he has become.
Donovan McNabb is still an active player, an unattached free agent who is seeking a team to throw for. He is currently unattached because he has two awful seasons with the Washington Redskins and Minnesota Vikings.
Brian Dawkins, the 2nd round draft pick out of Clemson, became an irrepressible Safety who was a starter from his first season in 1996 and became an integral part of the team that went to five NFC championship games and one Superbowl. Dawkins was the leader of the defence, the defence that scored points and allowed the offence marshalled by McNabb the opportunity to take them to these milestone games.
Whilst McNabb is making noises that he is hall of fame worthy, Dawkins is going to slope off into a quiet retirement. The Eagles have even extended an invitation to the Denver Broncos player to return to Philly so he can officially retire in the green of an Eagle. McNabb left on bitter terms with the Eagle organisation, and is not so welcome.
My argument and belief is that Dawkins is most certainly worthy of enshrinement in Canton, Ohio. Defensive players of note and of great skill playing levels are few and far between, especially at safety. John Lynch is a name who is first time ballot for sure, yet Dawkins work off the field and the fact he is so beloved in the city and the team still helps. And even when he went to Denver, he elevated that franchise. The work Dawkins did with Champ Bailey in the defence at Mile High, helped Denver win some of their games and got somewhat overshadowed by the hysteria of Tebow-mania. Remember a prolific Ben Roethlisberger was expected to stomp over this leaky Denver defence, and did he? No, Big Ben's numbers on that night were woeful (22-40, 289yds, 1TD, 1INT, 75.9rating)
It also helps that Dawkins has some great career numbers, 26 sacks, 37 forced fumbles (16 recovered) and 37 interceptions.
As for McNabb, his argument is a difficult one. For a quarterback to be elite, you have to have at least one ring on your finger. Look at all the active ones you consider they have the jewellry - Brady, Big Ben, Eli, Peyton, Rodgers, Brees, even Brett Favre did get one. The only elite one at the moment is Philip Rivers and that is due to his productivity and efficiency, expect him to bounce back this season.
Dawkins is a shoe in because he played fair but played hard. He was an exemplary model of professionalism with a clean sheet of integrity and respect from his peers.
As for McNabb he has now left three teams (Eagles, Redskins, Vikings) all with a cloud over his head. Yet for a player you live and die by what have you won. The Eagles never won the QB, ultimately the one they played in was against a good New England side, yet they had a chance to tie yet took too long. That comes down to the QB and his coach.
There is an argument that if Jim Kelly is in, why not McNabb. They share similar figures, McNabb has 37,726 to Kelly's 35,467 yet Kelly played in two Superbowls to McNabb's one, yet he was the franchise in Buffalo.
Should he retire now, McNabb's figures are ecliped already by the still very active Brady (39,979), Brees (40,742), Peyton (54,828). He is also behind people who are questionable entries Drew Bledsoe (44,611), Kerry Collins (40,922) - two players who also lost in SuperBowls yet have had storied careers also. I am not saying Collins is going to the Hall, Bledsoe might, but McNabb has thrown less than Collins. Even someone like Matt Hasselbeck (33,150) is not far behind McNabb, and he is certainly not HoF but at least he has a job.
Interestingly, Kurt Warner (32,344) has thrown 5,000 yards less than McNabb yet when he becomes eligible in 2014 he is a first ballot certainty; he played in 3 superbowls and won one. Yet he was the man who marshalled the greatest show on turf, and resurrected his career in Arizona where many thought he went to retire, he took a ragtag to the SuperBowl and very nearly got the upset.
People say McNabb deserves it more than Troy Aikman (32,942) yet Aikman won three titles, admittedly more due to having a great back like Emmitt Smith to complement him.
McNabb is in that group like Phil Simms (33,462) who although won a SuperBowl is not going to make it and Simms won a ring. McNabb also has a career Passer rating of 85.6% , that needs to be nearer to 95% like Brady/Manning will be.
Like Skip Bayless says on First Take, if you have to think about someone being in the Hall of Fame for half a second, chances are they do not deserve it. Love him or hate him, Brett Favre will be in the Hall of Fame with a click of the fingers. McNabb may have to wait a bit longer, although depending upon retirements and eligibility he may well scrap in, but if it is the first year it will be surprising.
As for McNabb, his argument is a difficult one. For a quarterback to be elite, you have to have at least one ring on your finger. Look at all the active ones you consider they have the jewellry - Brady, Big Ben, Eli, Peyton, Rodgers, Brees, even Brett Favre did get one. The only elite one at the moment is Philip Rivers and that is due to his productivity and efficiency, expect him to bounce back this season.
Dawkins is a shoe in because he played fair but played hard. He was an exemplary model of professionalism with a clean sheet of integrity and respect from his peers.
As for McNabb he has now left three teams (Eagles, Redskins, Vikings) all with a cloud over his head. Yet for a player you live and die by what have you won. The Eagles never won the QB, ultimately the one they played in was against a good New England side, yet they had a chance to tie yet took too long. That comes down to the QB and his coach.
There is an argument that if Jim Kelly is in, why not McNabb. They share similar figures, McNabb has 37,726 to Kelly's 35,467 yet Kelly played in two Superbowls to McNabb's one, yet he was the franchise in Buffalo.
Should he retire now, McNabb's figures are ecliped already by the still very active Brady (39,979), Brees (40,742), Peyton (54,828). He is also behind people who are questionable entries Drew Bledsoe (44,611), Kerry Collins (40,922) - two players who also lost in SuperBowls yet have had storied careers also. I am not saying Collins is going to the Hall, Bledsoe might, but McNabb has thrown less than Collins. Even someone like Matt Hasselbeck (33,150) is not far behind McNabb, and he is certainly not HoF but at least he has a job.
Interestingly, Kurt Warner (32,344) has thrown 5,000 yards less than McNabb yet when he becomes eligible in 2014 he is a first ballot certainty; he played in 3 superbowls and won one. Yet he was the man who marshalled the greatest show on turf, and resurrected his career in Arizona where many thought he went to retire, he took a ragtag to the SuperBowl and very nearly got the upset.
People say McNabb deserves it more than Troy Aikman (32,942) yet Aikman won three titles, admittedly more due to having a great back like Emmitt Smith to complement him.
McNabb is in that group like Phil Simms (33,462) who although won a SuperBowl is not going to make it and Simms won a ring. McNabb also has a career Passer rating of 85.6% , that needs to be nearer to 95% like Brady/Manning will be.
Like Skip Bayless says on First Take, if you have to think about someone being in the Hall of Fame for half a second, chances are they do not deserve it. Love him or hate him, Brett Favre will be in the Hall of Fame with a click of the fingers. McNabb may have to wait a bit longer, although depending upon retirements and eligibility he may well scrap in, but if it is the first year it will be surprising.
Asante Samuel and Draft thoughts
Asante Samuel, the four-time pro bowler, of the Philadelphia Eagles has left the city of Brotherly Love, and was willing enough to restructure his contract to make a move to Atlanta Falcons possible.
Samuel, was due to be paid $9.9m in 2012 if he stayed with the Eagles; the contract now reads as a 3 year, $18.5m deal. Considering he is an elite player in his position, and seeing that the Falcons only gave up a 7th round draft pick in this year's draft- this is a deal that suits the Falcons down to the ground.
The Eagles will not cry, in thinking they have lost a player - they still have Nnamdi Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie at cornerback. Yet they needed to clear some players from the payroll, and now they have 10 picks in the draft. Whereas Atlanta only have five picks total, with no first round pick.
In an interview, Samuel said, 'The Falcons already have an excellent team, excellent coaches...I'm just going to add to the bunch to get to the one common goal.'
That goal must be a legitimate play-off run for a team that has good regular season campaigns but seem to suffer in the playoff spotlight. In 2010, they were 13-3 yet lost to the eventual champions, Green Bay Packers; and last season, a 10-6 record led to a defeat to (again) eventual champions, New York Giants were they scored only two points (a safety).
Samuel joins Dunta Robinson and Brent Grimes in the Falcons secondary, yet whilst that is three top talents and questions remain over Samuel's inability to play man to man, and prefers the idea of zone coverage, he will no doubt help a defence that allowed the second most 30 yard passes to the defence's left side last season.
Whilst he only had 3 interceptions in 14 games last season, his 38 INTs since 2006 lead the NFL.
Head coach, Mike Smith seems pleased with the acquisition, ' Asante Samuel is a good football player and you can never have enough good players on your team. Our game has become more of a passing game, and you have to have the players who can neutralise how offences are trying to attack you.'
As for the draft, obviously you expect the Falcons to be quiet yet for the Eagles with 10 picks including three of the first 51 picks you can anticipate some movement in the first round. Possibly a team that is high on the board like Jacksonville at 7 will be willing to trade down, and be willing to hear offers for anything available. The Jags are covered on offence, and are a stuttering team - so if they are still on the board at that time, the Eagles may well jump at the chance to get Stephon Gilmore (South Carolina), Fletcher Cox (Miss State), Courtney Upshaw (Alabama).
Other draft thoughts
Miami going for Ryan Tannehill is a reach and a mistake, they have two decent QBs who can get the job done, they have a resurgent Reggie Bush and decent receivers underneath. Either they go for a wide reciever (Blackmon/Floyd/Hill), or sort out a leaky defence in a league where they are facing Brady, Sanchez and Fitzpatrick
All the talk of Matt Kalil not going to the Minnesota Vikings, who are instead looking at Morris Claiborne (LSU) at cornerback may well lead to Kalil falling into the St. Louis Rams' lap and such a great addition to their lineup. Of course if Kalil does go to the Vikings as he should do, Fletcher Cox dwill not be a bad player either.
The draft will come alive at No.7 when the Jags pick becomes live, the first six picks will sort themselves out but once the Eagles trade for 7, then all the fun will begin all over the board.
Expect the Patriots to use one of their two 1st round picks to sort out their defence at safety - Mark Barron (Alabama) or Harrison Smith (Notre Dame) or at pass rush for Michael Brockers (LSU) or Quinton Coples, either by trading up or waiting to see who is available.
Long term - Michael Floyd will have a better NFL career than Justin Blackmon
Samuel, was due to be paid $9.9m in 2012 if he stayed with the Eagles; the contract now reads as a 3 year, $18.5m deal. Considering he is an elite player in his position, and seeing that the Falcons only gave up a 7th round draft pick in this year's draft- this is a deal that suits the Falcons down to the ground.
The Eagles will not cry, in thinking they have lost a player - they still have Nnamdi Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie at cornerback. Yet they needed to clear some players from the payroll, and now they have 10 picks in the draft. Whereas Atlanta only have five picks total, with no first round pick.
In an interview, Samuel said, 'The Falcons already have an excellent team, excellent coaches...I'm just going to add to the bunch to get to the one common goal.'
That goal must be a legitimate play-off run for a team that has good regular season campaigns but seem to suffer in the playoff spotlight. In 2010, they were 13-3 yet lost to the eventual champions, Green Bay Packers; and last season, a 10-6 record led to a defeat to (again) eventual champions, New York Giants were they scored only two points (a safety).
Samuel joins Dunta Robinson and Brent Grimes in the Falcons secondary, yet whilst that is three top talents and questions remain over Samuel's inability to play man to man, and prefers the idea of zone coverage, he will no doubt help a defence that allowed the second most 30 yard passes to the defence's left side last season.
Whilst he only had 3 interceptions in 14 games last season, his 38 INTs since 2006 lead the NFL.
Head coach, Mike Smith seems pleased with the acquisition, ' Asante Samuel is a good football player and you can never have enough good players on your team. Our game has become more of a passing game, and you have to have the players who can neutralise how offences are trying to attack you.'
As for the draft, obviously you expect the Falcons to be quiet yet for the Eagles with 10 picks including three of the first 51 picks you can anticipate some movement in the first round. Possibly a team that is high on the board like Jacksonville at 7 will be willing to trade down, and be willing to hear offers for anything available. The Jags are covered on offence, and are a stuttering team - so if they are still on the board at that time, the Eagles may well jump at the chance to get Stephon Gilmore (South Carolina), Fletcher Cox (Miss State), Courtney Upshaw (Alabama).
Other draft thoughts
Miami going for Ryan Tannehill is a reach and a mistake, they have two decent QBs who can get the job done, they have a resurgent Reggie Bush and decent receivers underneath. Either they go for a wide reciever (Blackmon/Floyd/Hill), or sort out a leaky defence in a league where they are facing Brady, Sanchez and Fitzpatrick
All the talk of Matt Kalil not going to the Minnesota Vikings, who are instead looking at Morris Claiborne (LSU) at cornerback may well lead to Kalil falling into the St. Louis Rams' lap and such a great addition to their lineup. Of course if Kalil does go to the Vikings as he should do, Fletcher Cox dwill not be a bad player either.
The draft will come alive at No.7 when the Jags pick becomes live, the first six picks will sort themselves out but once the Eagles trade for 7, then all the fun will begin all over the board.
Expect the Patriots to use one of their two 1st round picks to sort out their defence at safety - Mark Barron (Alabama) or Harrison Smith (Notre Dame) or at pass rush for Michael Brockers (LSU) or Quinton Coples, either by trading up or waiting to see who is available.
Long term - Michael Floyd will have a better NFL career than Justin Blackmon
Monday, 21 November 2011
NFL - Week 11 roundup
Whenever you survey the NFL landscape you are sure of one thing - you can never be sure of anything in the NFL. Teams win convincingly on the road, yet lose humbly at home the next. Injuries burden teams with insurmountable odds, heroes turn into villains from one week to the next. Myself and other bloggers like picking the game results, no-one can ever be perfect as more than likely you will cock up somewhere, I myself went close to perfect but for two games.
I picked the Jags to win in Cleveland, alas Blaine Gabbert could not convert four opportunities from within the five yard line to get the go-ahead touchdown; and the Vikings could not make up the half-time deficit though their future looks good as they played incredibly well -making that comeback without the influential Adrian Petersen.
Elsewhere, teams roll on though nothing is certain. The Packers had their closest game of the season since playing the Saints in week 1 with the Bucs young team coming close to the upset, always staying tight and even intercepting Aaron Rodgers, though 35-26 was probably a fair result.
The Giants lost their second straight game this time in a divisonal match-up versus the Eagles who oddly won without Michael Vick under centre, this time Vince Young putting together a winning drive that gave the 17-10 victory in the MetLife stadium. This was an ugly game, and could be a costly defeat for the Giants who now look like not being a 2 seed cos of the consistent Packers and 49ers, if they win the NFC East they will be a 4 seed cos the Saints will probably be ahead of them.
The most action packed game was Detroit v Carolina which ended 49-35 to the Lions though they were way behind at the half, yet the Lions who are slow starters in every game came alive behind Matthew Stafford's 5 TDs and they were helped by Cam Newton's 4 picks. The Lions play the Packers this Thursday on Thanksgiving, the Lions have a chance but they need to start early otherwise they will find it harder to overcome such a deficit against the Superbowl Champions.
The Cowboys are building momentum and it continued as they overcame a resilient Redskins 27-24 in Overtime in Washington, Romo connected well with Jason Witten for a huge TD and thanks to the Giants loss they are tied atop the division.
The Bengals suffered another defeat to a division rival as they went down to Baltimore 31-24 on the road, although they have winnable games remaining on the schedule (Redskins, Rams, Browns) so they can still grab a wildcard spot and with Andy Dalton playing some good football (24-45, 373), one pass to Andre Caldwell (49yds) was inch perfect as the receiver caught it in stride and sauntered into the endzoen. The Ravens remain unbeaten at home, yet they need to sort out their road form as there three costly defeats (Jags, Seahawks, Tennessee) have all been on the road.
Chicago stayed in the hunt for a wildcard spot by defeating the Chargers 31-20 at home, yet it came at a price as Jay Cutler has reportedly suffered a fractured right thumb (his throwing hand) which rules him out for the remainder of the regular season. Whilst Matt Forte has been getting the numbers and spotlight in a contract year, lately Cutler's impressive leadership and being able to stay upright has dictated the outcome of the games like the dominant win over Detroit last week. Yet without him, the Bears will struggle down the stretch although four winnable games against west opponents (@ Raiders, Chiefs, @ Broncos, Seattle ) are not now and they finish with a brutal road double at Green Bay and Minnesota - from 7-3 to 10-6 might be good enough but if the Lions keep winning it might not be, depending on the Falcons, Giants, Cowboys.
Kudos to the Dolphins in my pick of the weekend as they destroyed the sinking Bills 35-8 at a near empty home stadium. Miami became the first team in NFL history to start 0-7 and then win their next three games, standing at 3-7 they are now a team full of confidence, Matt Moore not making mistakes and they are getting results off of turnovers. And to think Tony Sparano (head coach) would not have made the bye week after a 0-4 start to comeback and get this sort of result. There last six games are at Dallas, Oakland, Eagles, @ Buffalo, @New England, ending with Jets at home, the playoffs may be out of reach but each team they play has those postseason ambitions so they can certainly influence the playoff standings and seedings.
I am liking the 49ers but they were lucky they were only playing the Arizona Cardinals who completely stunk after winning in Philadelphia last week. In the first half, Alex Smith marched his offense down the field yet they only held a 9-0 lead at the half as they could not convert redzone possession, David Akers could even afford to miss two attempts. Better teams would not give you so many chances, so something to keep in mind. San Fran have a short week travelling to Baltimore as brothers go head-to-head but I feel the 49ers may come up short here.
Tonight the Patriots are at home to the Chiefs who have lost Matt Cassel for the season, expect a big win for the Patriots and a great opportunity for a young defence to get some consistency and force some turnovers.
I hope for a big win, but as week 11 like every other week shows Bo Diddley was right,'you never can tell'
I picked the Jags to win in Cleveland, alas Blaine Gabbert could not convert four opportunities from within the five yard line to get the go-ahead touchdown; and the Vikings could not make up the half-time deficit though their future looks good as they played incredibly well -making that comeback without the influential Adrian Petersen.
Elsewhere, teams roll on though nothing is certain. The Packers had their closest game of the season since playing the Saints in week 1 with the Bucs young team coming close to the upset, always staying tight and even intercepting Aaron Rodgers, though 35-26 was probably a fair result.
The Giants lost their second straight game this time in a divisonal match-up versus the Eagles who oddly won without Michael Vick under centre, this time Vince Young putting together a winning drive that gave the 17-10 victory in the MetLife stadium. This was an ugly game, and could be a costly defeat for the Giants who now look like not being a 2 seed cos of the consistent Packers and 49ers, if they win the NFC East they will be a 4 seed cos the Saints will probably be ahead of them.
The most action packed game was Detroit v Carolina which ended 49-35 to the Lions though they were way behind at the half, yet the Lions who are slow starters in every game came alive behind Matthew Stafford's 5 TDs and they were helped by Cam Newton's 4 picks. The Lions play the Packers this Thursday on Thanksgiving, the Lions have a chance but they need to start early otherwise they will find it harder to overcome such a deficit against the Superbowl Champions.
The Cowboys are building momentum and it continued as they overcame a resilient Redskins 27-24 in Overtime in Washington, Romo connected well with Jason Witten for a huge TD and thanks to the Giants loss they are tied atop the division.
The Bengals suffered another defeat to a division rival as they went down to Baltimore 31-24 on the road, although they have winnable games remaining on the schedule (Redskins, Rams, Browns) so they can still grab a wildcard spot and with Andy Dalton playing some good football (24-45, 373), one pass to Andre Caldwell (49yds) was inch perfect as the receiver caught it in stride and sauntered into the endzoen. The Ravens remain unbeaten at home, yet they need to sort out their road form as there three costly defeats (Jags, Seahawks, Tennessee) have all been on the road.
Chicago stayed in the hunt for a wildcard spot by defeating the Chargers 31-20 at home, yet it came at a price as Jay Cutler has reportedly suffered a fractured right thumb (his throwing hand) which rules him out for the remainder of the regular season. Whilst Matt Forte has been getting the numbers and spotlight in a contract year, lately Cutler's impressive leadership and being able to stay upright has dictated the outcome of the games like the dominant win over Detroit last week. Yet without him, the Bears will struggle down the stretch although four winnable games against west opponents (@ Raiders, Chiefs, @ Broncos, Seattle ) are not now and they finish with a brutal road double at Green Bay and Minnesota - from 7-3 to 10-6 might be good enough but if the Lions keep winning it might not be, depending on the Falcons, Giants, Cowboys.
Kudos to the Dolphins in my pick of the weekend as they destroyed the sinking Bills 35-8 at a near empty home stadium. Miami became the first team in NFL history to start 0-7 and then win their next three games, standing at 3-7 they are now a team full of confidence, Matt Moore not making mistakes and they are getting results off of turnovers. And to think Tony Sparano (head coach) would not have made the bye week after a 0-4 start to comeback and get this sort of result. There last six games are at Dallas, Oakland, Eagles, @ Buffalo, @New England, ending with Jets at home, the playoffs may be out of reach but each team they play has those postseason ambitions so they can certainly influence the playoff standings and seedings.
I am liking the 49ers but they were lucky they were only playing the Arizona Cardinals who completely stunk after winning in Philadelphia last week. In the first half, Alex Smith marched his offense down the field yet they only held a 9-0 lead at the half as they could not convert redzone possession, David Akers could even afford to miss two attempts. Better teams would not give you so many chances, so something to keep in mind. San Fran have a short week travelling to Baltimore as brothers go head-to-head but I feel the 49ers may come up short here.
Tonight the Patriots are at home to the Chiefs who have lost Matt Cassel for the season, expect a big win for the Patriots and a great opportunity for a young defence to get some consistency and force some turnovers.
I hope for a big win, but as week 11 like every other week shows Bo Diddley was right,'you never can tell'
Thursday, 27 October 2011
NFL - Week 8 Picks
Well, week 7 was a bit of a mad week. The Jets came back from the dead; the Bucs and Bears put on a show in Wembley stadium; the Colts laid down on Sunday night and the Ravens did themselves no favours - best team in AFC, please, you have to be able to win at the Jaguars, who were up for it no doubt.
This week, the teams with the byes are: Atlanta, Chicago, Green Bay, Oakland, NY Jets and Tampa Bay
But what about this week; some boring matchups and one sided looking contests:
Cardinals @ Ravens - a very short week for the Ravens, but have to bounce back with a win at home to the feeble Cardinals.
Vikings @ Panthers - a battle of rookie QBs but the more established name of Newton will be too much of a force for Ponder and his Vikings.
Jaguars @ Texans - a great win fror the Jags, but the Texans have an amazing player in Arian Foster and homefield is the key in this division tussle
Dolphins @ Giants - the Giants will want to cement their supremacy atop the NFC East, the Dolphins should be 1-6, instead they are searching for a win.
Saints @ Rams - the schedule has been awful for the depleted Rams, and the Saints are back to form following a 62 point smash on the sorry Colts
Colts @ Titans - the Titans were shameful against the Texans, but if Hasselbeck can control the ball then a win for Tennessee here
Lions @ Broncos - because of Tebow this is closer to call and the Lions are lacking confidence after two straight losses;they have to find another dimension following the injury to Jahvid Best
Redskins @ Bills - the Bills are fresh off of a bye, expect them to put up some big numbers.
Bengals @ Seahawks - a solid defensive display from Cincy here for the W
Browns @ 49ers - San Fran are off a bye and fresh so good to go.
Patriots @ Steelers - last season i picked against my boys and they put on one of their best displays of the season, no way I am doing the same mistake again.
Cowboys @ Eagles - no way Murray can have as big a game as he did last week, Andy Reid has never lost a game following a bye (11-0) big game, home win
Chargers @ Chiefs - San Diego have to close out games, although the Chiefs have seemed to turn a corner. Closest game of the MNF season.
And how did I do last week:
Chargers @ Jets - 21-27 - I called it right though they left it late.
Bears @ Bucs - 24-18 - Josh Freeman needs to grow up
Redskins @ Panthers - 20-33 - Cam Newton continues to impress
Falcons @ Lions - 23-16 - No Best, no chance
Seahawks @ Browns - 3-6 - Worst game of the season
Broncos @ Dolphins - 18 -15(OT) "Tim Tebow returns to Florida, he leaves with a W"direct quote!!
Texans @ Titans - 41-7 - Embarassing display from the Titans. At home. After a bye.
Chiefs @ Raiders - 28-0 - I bet a lot of people called this wrong
Steelers @ Cardinals - 32-20 - Pittsburgh get the job done
Packers @ Vikings - 33-27 - Christian Ponder asked the most questions of the Pack since the Saints
Rams @ Cowboys - 7-34 - Huge rushing performance from Murray
Colts @ Saints - 7-62 - And I had the Colts to cover the 54 point difference
Ravens @ Jaguars (MNF) - 7-12 - Another awful performance in a weekend of bad football from Ravens
Week 7: 10-13
Total: 29-39
All the best and enjoy the American football, live coverage on Sky Sports 2 from 6pm Sunday evening. You can watch NFL action at Switch Bar, follow us on twitter @SwitchBarLondon
This week, the teams with the byes are: Atlanta, Chicago, Green Bay, Oakland, NY Jets and Tampa Bay
But what about this week; some boring matchups and one sided looking contests:
Cardinals @ Ravens - a very short week for the Ravens, but have to bounce back with a win at home to the feeble Cardinals.
Vikings @ Panthers - a battle of rookie QBs but the more established name of Newton will be too much of a force for Ponder and his Vikings.
Jaguars @ Texans - a great win fror the Jags, but the Texans have an amazing player in Arian Foster and homefield is the key in this division tussle
Dolphins @ Giants - the Giants will want to cement their supremacy atop the NFC East, the Dolphins should be 1-6, instead they are searching for a win.
Saints @ Rams - the schedule has been awful for the depleted Rams, and the Saints are back to form following a 62 point smash on the sorry Colts
Colts @ Titans - the Titans were shameful against the Texans, but if Hasselbeck can control the ball then a win for Tennessee here
Lions @ Broncos - because of Tebow this is closer to call and the Lions are lacking confidence after two straight losses;they have to find another dimension following the injury to Jahvid Best
Redskins @ Bills - the Bills are fresh off of a bye, expect them to put up some big numbers.
Bengals @ Seahawks - a solid defensive display from Cincy here for the W
Browns @ 49ers - San Fran are off a bye and fresh so good to go.
Patriots @ Steelers - last season i picked against my boys and they put on one of their best displays of the season, no way I am doing the same mistake again.
Cowboys @ Eagles - no way Murray can have as big a game as he did last week, Andy Reid has never lost a game following a bye (11-0) big game, home win
Chargers @ Chiefs - San Diego have to close out games, although the Chiefs have seemed to turn a corner. Closest game of the MNF season.
And how did I do last week:
Chargers @ Jets - 21-27 - I called it right though they left it late.
Bears @ Bucs - 24-18 - Josh Freeman needs to grow up
Redskins @ Panthers - 20-33 - Cam Newton continues to impress
Falcons @ Lions - 23-16 - No Best, no chance
Seahawks @ Browns - 3-6 - Worst game of the season
Broncos @ Dolphins - 18 -15(OT) "Tim Tebow returns to Florida, he leaves with a W"direct quote!!
Texans @ Titans - 41-7 - Embarassing display from the Titans. At home. After a bye.
Chiefs @ Raiders - 28-0 - I bet a lot of people called this wrong
Steelers @ Cardinals - 32-20 - Pittsburgh get the job done
Packers @ Vikings - 33-27 - Christian Ponder asked the most questions of the Pack since the Saints
Rams @ Cowboys - 7-34 - Huge rushing performance from Murray
Colts @ Saints - 7-62 - And I had the Colts to cover the 54 point difference
Ravens @ Jaguars (MNF) - 7-12 - Another awful performance in a weekend of bad football from Ravens
Week 7: 10-13
Total: 29-39
All the best and enjoy the American football, live coverage on Sky Sports 2 from 6pm Sunday evening. You can watch NFL action at Switch Bar, follow us on twitter @SwitchBarLondon
Thursday, 13 October 2011
NFL - Week 6 picks
This week there are some interesting divisional matchups and teams returning from the first Bye week of the season, for some it was a much needed break for recuperation and re-evaluation, whilst for others it is a chance to regain some composure and rebuild momentum into their second half of the season. Teams with byes this week are Denver, Tennessee, Arizona, San Diego, Seattle and Kansas City. Whilst returning we have the Cowboys who get a fit again Miles Austin and Des Bryant, and a Ravens team eager to continue their good form.
Week 6 picks
49ers @ LIONS - what a match up this will be but the Lions roll on because of their D-line, which will snuff out the threat of Gore and will attack Alex Smith and make him attempt to escape the pocket therefore make mistakes and force turnovers.
Rams @ PACKERS - i dare call this my lock, but this will be a long day for the sorry Rams.
Panthers @ FALCONS - Cam Newton is due a down day, and the Falcons are a better team at home and even though they lost to the Packers, a lot of teams will have the same fate but expect a home team to bounce back here.
Colts @ BENGALS - the Bengals are on a roll and will look to continue, the Colts so close to a first win might not get a chance for another in a few more weeks.
Bills @ GIANTS - the Giants need to bounce back and the Bills will need to make a statement. The pressure will be on the Bills to win again, the Giants play better when they are expected to lose, as here.
Jags @ STEELERS - Big Ben showed that even on one leg he belongs in the elite status.
Eagles @ REDSKINS - the Eagles make mistakes, Rex Grossman is being told not to. Ball retention and less turnovers wins this one, and the Eagles just make too many at the moment on both sides of the ball.
Texans @ RAVENS - the Texans go back to their stuttering ways and the Ravens with their older defense come back from a week's rest hungry for a QB to maul, beware Matt Schaub.
Browns @ RAIDERS - whilst the Browns have improved, the Raiders are rolling with a typical ball and air combo,expect big numbers from McFadden in this one.
Cowboys @ PATRIOTS - expect a close one here than any line suggests, the deep threat of returning Austin/Bryant will be important test for the young Pats defence but maybe the fact Brady does not turnover will be the difference, and Romo does.
SAINTS @ Bucs - oddly I consider this to be the only road win of the week, but I feel the Bucs will be eager to bounce back, but the Saints are growing into a major threat this season with a rejuvenated defence and always inspirational Drew Brees
Vikings @ BEARS - a slugfest on Sunday night in Chicago, but the Bears need to find this balance again on offense:give Forte the ball but allow Cutler to do his thing.
Dolphins @ JETS - the Jets are there for the taking, unfortunately they play a woeful Miami team still searching for a first win.
Last weeks picks
Eagles @ BILLS 24-31 Turnovers that the Bills capitalised on 1/1
CHIEFS @ Colts 28-24 Colts were close but seemingly not close enough 2/2
CARDINALS @ Vikings 10-34 3 TDs early from AP were enough to hurt heartless Cards 2/3
Seahawks @ GIANTS 36-25 Shocker, but a last minute INT cost Eli 2/4
Titans @STEELERS 17-38 Should have been my lock 3/5
SAINTS @ Panthers 30-27 As close as i expected 4/6
Bengals @ JAGS 30-20 2 young QBs, lot of mistakes 4/7
Raiders @ TEXANS 25-20 Damn Texans, but RIP Al Davis 4/8
Bucs @ 49ERS 3-48 A San Fran coming out party 5/9
CHARGERS @ Broncos 29-24 Tim Tebow made this a lot closer than it should have been 6/10
Jets @ PATRIOTS 21-30 Go my Pats!! 7/11
PACKERS @ Falcons 25-14 These Packers are good 8/12
Bears @ LIONS 13-24 Big TDs from Best & Johnson help Lions 9/13
Last week: 9/13
What do you guys predict, any shocks worth noting.
Week 6 picks
49ers @ LIONS - what a match up this will be but the Lions roll on because of their D-line, which will snuff out the threat of Gore and will attack Alex Smith and make him attempt to escape the pocket therefore make mistakes and force turnovers.
Rams @ PACKERS - i dare call this my lock, but this will be a long day for the sorry Rams.
Panthers @ FALCONS - Cam Newton is due a down day, and the Falcons are a better team at home and even though they lost to the Packers, a lot of teams will have the same fate but expect a home team to bounce back here.
Colts @ BENGALS - the Bengals are on a roll and will look to continue, the Colts so close to a first win might not get a chance for another in a few more weeks.
Bills @ GIANTS - the Giants need to bounce back and the Bills will need to make a statement. The pressure will be on the Bills to win again, the Giants play better when they are expected to lose, as here.
Jags @ STEELERS - Big Ben showed that even on one leg he belongs in the elite status.
Eagles @ REDSKINS - the Eagles make mistakes, Rex Grossman is being told not to. Ball retention and less turnovers wins this one, and the Eagles just make too many at the moment on both sides of the ball.
Texans @ RAVENS - the Texans go back to their stuttering ways and the Ravens with their older defense come back from a week's rest hungry for a QB to maul, beware Matt Schaub.
Browns @ RAIDERS - whilst the Browns have improved, the Raiders are rolling with a typical ball and air combo,expect big numbers from McFadden in this one.
Cowboys @ PATRIOTS - expect a close one here than any line suggests, the deep threat of returning Austin/Bryant will be important test for the young Pats defence but maybe the fact Brady does not turnover will be the difference, and Romo does.
SAINTS @ Bucs - oddly I consider this to be the only road win of the week, but I feel the Bucs will be eager to bounce back, but the Saints are growing into a major threat this season with a rejuvenated defence and always inspirational Drew Brees
Vikings @ BEARS - a slugfest on Sunday night in Chicago, but the Bears need to find this balance again on offense:give Forte the ball but allow Cutler to do his thing.
Dolphins @ JETS - the Jets are there for the taking, unfortunately they play a woeful Miami team still searching for a first win.
Last weeks picks
Eagles @ BILLS 24-31 Turnovers that the Bills capitalised on 1/1
CHIEFS @ Colts 28-24 Colts were close but seemingly not close enough 2/2
CARDINALS @ Vikings 10-34 3 TDs early from AP were enough to hurt heartless Cards 2/3
Seahawks @ GIANTS 36-25 Shocker, but a last minute INT cost Eli 2/4
Titans @STEELERS 17-38 Should have been my lock 3/5
SAINTS @ Panthers 30-27 As close as i expected 4/6
Bengals @ JAGS 30-20 2 young QBs, lot of mistakes 4/7
Raiders @ TEXANS 25-20 Damn Texans, but RIP Al Davis 4/8
Bucs @ 49ERS 3-48 A San Fran coming out party 5/9
CHARGERS @ Broncos 29-24 Tim Tebow made this a lot closer than it should have been 6/10
Jets @ PATRIOTS 21-30 Go my Pats!! 7/11
PACKERS @ Falcons 25-14 These Packers are good 8/12
Bears @ LIONS 13-24 Big TDs from Best & Johnson help Lions 9/13
Last week: 9/13
What do you guys predict, any shocks worth noting.
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