NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 7 New Articles Added 11/6/06

Hache Man · Oct 28, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 11 New Articles Added 10/26/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 11 New Articles Added 10/26/06)

Updated: Oct. 28, 2006
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Some wonder if Garrard might be better for Jags

By Len Pasquarelli
ESPN.com
Archive



<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>With the Jacksonville Jaguars' switch to David Garrard as their starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles, there is going to be considerable speculation over head coach Jack Del Rio's motives in making the change.
There is already some suspicion that Del Rio has seen enough of incumbent Byron Leftwich, the team's first-round choice in 2003, to have concluded that he's not the long-term solution at the position, nor the guy to take the Jaguars to a championship. The left ankle sprain with which Leftwich played last Sunday -- which Del Rio has suggested was a factor in the quarterback's performance during a 27-7 loss at Houston, after initially maintaining the injury was not a major component in the defeat -- might be viewed as the well-timed excuse that the coach needed to make a change at the top of the depth chart.
It seems Leftwich might have to tread gingerly these days on more than just the bad ankle, which flared up unexpectedly late last week. The sense is that if Garrard and plays well on Sunday, he could keep the job for a while.

AP Photo/Michael Conroy
Byron Leftwich is 24-20 as a starter for the Jaguars.

There has been, despite some moments of public support for Leftwich from Del Rio, an uneasiness about the pair's relationship. With Leftwich now benched, if he feels strongly that his injury isn't really a legitimate deterrent, the sore ankle might not be the only thing strained in the Jacksonville organization. When informed by Del Rio on Thursday afternoon that Garrard would run that day's practice, Leftwich responded by tossing his shoulder pads to the ground during stretching exercises. One can only imagine the histrionics to the news he wouldn't be starting on Sunday.
Of course, Del Rio may have no other agenda than wanting a more mobile quarterback in the lineup against an Eagles defense that boasts an NFL-high 25 sacks. But he will have some trouble selling such a rationale to Leftwich and some others.
Leftwich is a fierce competitor, a guy with a reputation for playing hurt, and he apparently was less than 100 percent physically for much longer than anyone knew, since he now traces the ankle injury to the Oct. 1 game at Washington. The fourth-year veteran, one of the league's best players to deal with and a candid guy whose emotions are usually dangling from his sleeve, is also a player who feels that he has earned the right to consider the Jaguars his team.
But Jacksonville might not be his team for much longer.
Leftwich is signed only through the 2007 season. If he doesn't hold the No. 1 job at the conclusion of this year, owner Wayne Weaver isn't apt to invest big money in a contract extension in the offseason. And if Leftwich doesn't get a fat add-on to his deal, and goes into the final season of his original rookie contract with free agency beckoning, the likelihood of him changing addresses for 2008 will be markedly increased.
Garrard was 4-1 as the starter last season, filling in when Leftwich fractured his left ankle. A lot of second-guessers felt (mostly in hindsight), that when Leftwich returned to the lineup for the ugly wild-card playoff defeat at New England, the Jags would have been better served had they kept Garrard as the starter.
Garrard desperately wants to be a starter somewhere in the league, and with Leftwich's balky ankle now serving as a convenient excuse for making a switch, now gets the opportunity sooner rather than later. Here's hoping he got the news he was starting from the coaching staff. It wasn't that way earlier in the week.
How's this for a communication breakdown? Garrard found out that he would be splitting the first-unit snaps with Leftwich in Wednesday's practice from his wife. Seems she read it on the team-owned Web site that morning, and when Garrard phoned her at home during his lunch break, she delivered the news.
The coaching staff didn't tell Garrard about the time-sharing plan until he took the field for practice that day. It had to be a little awkward, don't you think, when Garrard informed the coaches he already knew, because his wife had beaten them to the punch.

Around the league

? Despite all the hand-wringing over recent injuries to some signal-callers, and the poor play of others, the numbers through the first seven weeks of the season indicate the quarterback carousel isn't spinning nearly as out of control as it was a year ago at the same time. Through last weekend's games, there had been only seven starting quarterback changes, and none in the past two weeks. The 32 franchises have used a total of 39 starters. That's barely a ripple compared to last season. In the first seven weeks in 2005, teams made 14 starting quarterback changes and used 45 different starters. Heck, by the first six weeks in 2005, the New York Jets had already gone through three starters: Chad Pennington, Brooks Bollinger and Vinny Testaverde. This year, a healthy Pennington, the early favorite for comeback player of the year, has started every contest.
There was only one week to this point in the '05 season in which not a single quarterback switch was consummated. Two of the first seven weeks featured four lineup alterations each. The biggest weekend for change this year came in Week 5, when Matt Leinart (Arizona) replaced Kurt Warner, Joey Harrington (Miami) took over for Daunte Culpepper and Bruce Gradkowski (Tampa Bay) stepped in for Chris Simms. Of course, this weekend will bring at least two changes for sure, with Tony Romo replacing Drew Bledsoe in Dallas and Seattle's Seneca Wallace subbing for the injured Matt Hasselbeck. Even if David Garrard starts for Jacksonville and Charlie Batch for Pittsburgh (still a long-shot possibility, even though Ben Roethlisberger appears ready to go), the rate of change for the first eight weeks in 2006 won't come close to the depth chart reshaping of last season. The biggest difference, to date, between the two seasons: This year, there will have been just three changes -- Leinart, Romo and Vince Young in Tennessee -- that were not precipitated by injuries. Last year at this time, there had been six changes that were coach's decisions and had nothing to do with physical attrition.

<TABLE class=tableheadFixWidth cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=200 align=right><TBODY><TR class=stathead><TD class=whitelink colSpan=2>Gary Baxter</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow align=right><TD align=left>

Cornerback
Cleveland Browns

Profile</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD align=middle><TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width=190 bgColor=#ffffff border=0><TBODY><TR class=stathead align=middle><TD align=middle colSpan=6>2006 SEASON STATISTICS</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND: #bcbcb4" align=right><TD width="17%">Tot</TD><TD width="17%">Ast</TD><TD width="17%">Solo</TD><TD width="17%">FF</TD><TD width="17%">Sack</TD><TD width="17%">Int</TD></TR><TR align=right bgColor=#999999><TD>21</TD><TD>16</TD><TD>5</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>0</TD><TD>1</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>? Memo to Cleveland owner Randy Lerner, a good guy who wants desperately to win, and who isn't shy about investing money in trying to restore the Browns to their glory days: Take some of the money that has been earmarked for free agency next year and pay priests, rabbis, reverends, shamans and holy men from every known denomination in the area to come render a group blessing on your Berea, Ohio complex. Because, it seems, the place is cursed. And, no, we're not speaking only of the star-crossed fortunes of some of the Browns' first-round draft selections from the franchise's second incarnation, like quarterback Tim Couch, defensive end Courtney Brown, tight end Kellen Winslow and wide receiver Braylon Edwards. Consider what has transpired with cornerback Gary Baxter and center LeCharles Bentley, the team's two highest-profile veterans, respectively, from each of the past two unrestricted free-agent spending sprees. The presumptive cornerstone of the offensive line, who signed a six-year, $36 million contract this spring, Bentley ruptured the patella tendon of his left knee on the first full-contact day of training camp this summer. Then last Sunday, Baxter, who was limited to five games in 2005 because of a torn pectoral, did Bentley one better (or actually worse), by tearing both patella tendons on a pass play. Bentley, whose rehabilitation suffered a recent setback when he had to be treated for a staph infection, may not be ready for the start of camp next summer. And Baxter, who likely will require a full year to recover, will be lucky to get back on the field by the middle of the 2007 season. By next spring, Lerner will have paid out $26.15 million to Baxter and Bentley. The return on that investment: eight regular-season appearances (all, obviously, by Baxter), 43 tackles, three interceptions and three passes defensed.

? It had to be a difficult chore for Browns coach Romeo Crennel to accept the "resignation" of longtime friend Maurice Carthon this week. But arguably one of the worst-kept secrets in the league was how much the Cleveland offensive coordinator was disliked by players. Lose the guys in the locker room, and Carthon definitely had, and you're dead in the NFL. And so Carthon was essentially a dead man walking, presiding over an offensive unit that could barely crawl and whose players had tuned him out. The consensus was that Crennel would have been given an ultimatum by owner Randy Lerner or general manager Phil Savage (or both) at year's end to make a change in the coordinator spot. As it turns out, Carthon didn't even make it through the season, with the Cleveland brain trust deciding after Sunday's loss to the Denver Broncos that he had to go. No matter how much Crennel might have fought for Carthon, the truth is, the change was justified. The numbers don't lie: In Carthon's 22 games as coordinator, Cleveland scored more than two offensive touchdowns in just two contests. The Browns scored no touchdowns six times and one touchdown five times. That's 11 outings, half the games in which Carthon served as coordinator, with no more than one offensive touchdown. The Browns statistically ranked 26th in total offense in 2005 and they were dead last in the NFL through the first six games of this season, averaging nearly 14 percent less in total yards. The new guy calling the plays, assistant head coach/offensive line coach Jeff Davidson, is very well-regarded around the league -- he was man that New York Jets first-year coach Eric Mangini wanted as his coordinator, but the Browns kept him, and gave him a raise and promotion -- and the players seem to have already responded well to him. But he's got to get results, and quickly, from an offense averaging a paltry 245.2 yards per game, or everyone in Cleveland could be in trouble.

? League owners on Tuesday approved a proposal that will have the NFL playing one regular-season game outside of the United States in 2007, and then two overseas contests in 2008-11. Playing in Los Angeles anytime soon? Well, that's a little more problematic, it seems. Three weeks ago in this space, we suggested, in citing several owners, that the onetime fast-tracked plans to return to the nation's second-biggest market, which has been without the NFL since the Raiders and Rams abandoned Los Angeles after the '94 season, had been somewhat derailed. And in light of numbers that now estimate the cost of a stadium for the Los Angeles market at $820 million-$1 billion, that appeared to be the sentiment of many owners during this week's one-day session in New Orleans.
Owners employed phrases such as "on the back burner" (Tom Benson of the Saints), "not concentrating on it right now" (Denver's Pat Bowlen), and "hardly our biggest priority" (Atlanta's Arthur Blank), in describing the Los Angeles initiative. Everyone understands that there is big money to be made in the Los Angeles market. But, as the old axiom suggests, you've got to spend it to make it. And the spending parameters have brought owners to the choking point. The numbers that have been crunched for the stadium alone represent a daunting challenge. Add franchise or relocation fees, and other expenses inherent to putting a team back in Los Angeles, and it's a tough thing to swallow. In fact, most owners don't seem inclined to even chew on it right now. It wasn't all that long ago that owners were once again gung ho, seemingly desperate actually, to revisit Los Angeles. But as the costs have mounted, the interest has waned dramatically, and the timetables once set by former commissioner Paul Tagliabue are obsolete. Commissioner Roger Goodell acknowledged that, with the rising costs of steel and concrete, building stadiums anywhere now is challenging. But in Los Angeles, where there is strident lack of support for any sort of public funding, the challenge is exponentially more daunting. "We're not giving up," Goodell told reporters. Right now, though, there's no stadium going up. And there might not be anytime soon, which means Los Angeles almost certainly won't have a team in the first decade of this millennium. Nor, it seems, will California host a Super Bowl until there is a new state-of-the-art facility somewhere in the state in which to play it.

? It will be interesting to see how the Washington coaches handle the quarterback situation when the club resumes play on Nov. 5 after this weekend's bye. Word is that second-year quarterback Jason Campbell, a first-round pick in 2005 who is still waiting to throw his first pass in a regular-season game, took virtually all the first-unit snaps this week. But that might have been because starter Mark Brunell, who continues to look old and used-up, is ailing and needed some time off. There's going to come a time, unless Brunell and the offense promulgates a miraculous turnaround, and quickly, when the Redskins' staff is going to have to get Campbell some playing time. At the behest of coach Joe Gibbs, who fell in love with Campbell before the '05 draft, owner Dan Snyder traded away three draft choices to Denver to acquire the extra first-round pick he needed to snatch the former Auburn star. If, indeed, Campbell is the franchise's quarterback of the future, the Redskins can't continue to let him rot from idleness. Especially not with Brunell playing as poorly as he has. Despite the increased workload this week, no one has even suggested to Campbell that he will be the starter when the Redskins get back onto the field for their Nov. 5 home game against the Dallas Cowboys. Still, there is a sense that a change is coming sooner rather than later.
? Most people in the league, even NFL Players Association officials, feel San Diego linebacker Shawne Merriman has virtually no chance to win his appeal on Nov. 7 and overturn the four-game suspension that the NFL has imposed on him for a violation of the steroid and related substances policy. His attorney, the talented and thorough David Cornwell, knows the league policies as well as anyone, and claims to have won one such appeal in the past. But there is a basic tenet in the NFL that a player is responsible for whatever goes into his body -- and that point is hammered home annually by teams and the union. It was suggested in a few media outlets this week that the league, always seeking new revenue streams, ought to consider marketing its own brand of supplements. But the NFLPA essentially has already done that. It cut a deal a year ago with Colorado-based EAS to manufacture supplements that the union monitors and screens, and which are free of any substance banned by the league. So unless Cornwell can pull a rabbit out of his hat, Merriman is going away for four games, probably shortly after the Nov. 7 appeals hearing.

Kirby Lee/WireImage.com
It would take a lot to lure Pete Carroll from USC to the pros.

? That was hardly a ringing endorsement that embattled Arizona coach Dennis Green received from Cardinals vice president Michael Bidwill this week. Bidwill used too many disclaimers in addressing the status of Green. It was difficult to figure out what might happen, but not too tough to divine that the franchise will almost certainly have a new head coach in 2007. But if the team is going to make a change, ownership is going to have to change the way it does business, particularly if the Bidwill family wants to lure a big-time coach to the desert.
We wrote on Sunday night, in the "Heard in the Press Box" section of the "Last Call" column, that Southern California coach Pete Carroll would be one guy in whom Arizona would have to have an interest. That was based on conversations with several people around the league, all of whom believe that, at some point, the successful Trojans coach will return to the NFL for a third go-round. The speculation picked up legs around the country and was noted in a lot of outlets. But Carroll's current salary at USC probably isn't much less than the $2.5 million that Green is making. No reason for Carroll to jump at a job that's only paying in the mid-level range among the league's 32 coaches. In addition, whoever gets the Cardinals job, assuming Green departs, will require a bigger budget for his coaching staff. Salaries for assistants have spiraled dramatically upward over the past five years, and Arizona hasn't kept pace. Finally, no team is going to turn Carroll's head unless it cedes him near-absolute authority over the football program. Carroll is essentially his own boss at USC and isn't leaving for the NFL to have someone looking over his shoulder. It's certainly a natural fit -- the possible reunion of Carroll with former USC quarterback Matt Leinart and some solid, young talent on both sides of the ball. But it's still going to take a lot to reconnect Carroll and Leinart, and to connect the dots that might lead the coach to the Valley of the Sun.
? Speaking of the Cardinals, it appears the coaches will enact a major overhaul of the offensive line for Sunday's game at Green Bay, and it appears that right tackle Oliver Ross is the odd man out. Look for Reggie Wells to move from left guard to right tackle, right guard Chris Liwienski to switch to left guard, and second-round draft choice Deuce Lutui to jump into the lineup at right guard. Assuming Nick Leckey remains at center, in place of the demoted Alex Stepanovich, the only guy in the same place he was projected to start at the beginning of the season would be left tackle Leonard Davis. The eight-year veteran Ross has been a disappointment since the Cardinals signed him as an unrestricted free agent in 2005. He's been hurt a lot, and when he isn't on the injured list, it seems he's on the ground, sprawled at defenders' feet. What Arizona didn't seem to understand about Ross when it signed him was that what made him a solid player with Pittsburgh was the fact the team's power-game running attack compensated for a lot of his deficiencies. And as we all know now -- just ask Edgerrin James -- the Cardinals can't run the ball.
? Everyone knows what a great all-around tailback LaDainian Tomlinson is, but sometimes people overlook that, in addition to his running and receiving skills, the San Diego Chargers' star is also an accomplished passer. Last week, Tomlinson threw the fifth touchdown pass of his career, a one-yard connection with tight end Brandon Manumaleuna, and it came on just his ninth attempt. In fact, all but one of Tomlinson's six career completions have been for scores. Among non-quarterbacks since 1970, only four players have more touchdown passes: Walter Payton (eight), Greg Pruitt (six), Marcus Allen (six) and Keith Byars (six). Of that group, Tomlinson has the best passer rating by far. His six completions in nine attempts, for 107 yards, with five touchdowns and no interceptions translate to a 146.8 rating. The others who have more than five touchdown passes own passer ratings that pale in comparison. Allen is at 106.8, Byars at 86.2, Pruitt at 77.4 and Payton is at 69.6.
? The ankle injury that landed Tennessee guard Zach Piller on injured reserve on Thursday evening might well end his tenure with the Titans. Piller is an excellent in-line blocker when healthy, but this is the second time in three years he finished a season on the injured reserve list. And it means he will have appeared in just 20 games since the start of the 2004 season. Piller is earning $2.5 million in 2006 and has base salaries of $3 million for 2007, $3.5 million for 2008 and $4 million for 2009. If the young Tennessee line continues to play well in its current configuration, with right tackle Jacob Bell having moved into Piller's left guard spot and David Stewart surpassing expectations at right tackle, the Titans might not want to make a change next season in the starting group.
? This week marked the sixth anniversary of the death of Steve Schoenfeld, a longtime NFL writer who mostly earned his stripes with the Arizona Republic, and who was a friend to everyone in the business. Hard to believe it's been six years since the telephone rang at 3 a.m. and it was Steve's wife, Robin, on the other end, telling me that he had died at the hands of a hit-and-run driver. Arizona Cardinals management made an appropriate, yet magnanimous gesture in naming the press box at the new stadium in Glendale in his honor. They didn't forget Steve, and hopefully his many friends won't either. It might not be a bad time for all the scribes who called him friend to pick up the phone and touch base with Robin again. She's doing great. She'll be doing even better, though, if she has a chance to reconnect with old friends, even if it's just through a five-minute phone call.
? The list: During the 12-season Hall of Fame career of Troy Aikman (1989-2000), the Dallas Cowboys used only 10 different starting quarterbacks. Other than Aikman (165 starts), no quarterback started more than nine games. But when Tony Romo takes his first snap for the Cowboys in Sunday's game at Carolina, he will become the ninth different starter for Dallas since Aikman's retirement, with none of them starting more than 31 contests. Here are the eight starters who preceded Romo since the beginning of the 2001 season: Quincy Carter (31 starts), Drew Bledsoe (22), Vinny Testaverde (15), Chad Hutchinson (nine), Ryan Leaf (three), Anthony Wright (three), Clint Stoerner (two) and Drew Henson (one).
? Stat of the week: Cardinals tailback Edgerrin James has logged 161 carries in seven games for just 432 yards, and a puny, career-worst 2.7-yard average. In the six seasons with Indianapolis in which James started at least 13 games, he averaged 1,427 rushing yards. To match that average this season, at his current pace of 2.7 yards per attempt, James would need 529 carries. The league record, set by Atlanta's Jamal Anderson in 1998, is 410 carries.
? Punts: Demoted quarterback Drew Bledsoe has a $1 million roster bonus due next spring, and it's hard to imagine the Cowboys are going to want to pay it. ? How long has Green Bay quarterback Brett Favre been around? Favre has now played in 41 different stadiums in his career. Sixteen of them have either been demolished or are no longer used for NFL games. ? Although discussions have slowed to a near halt, the Patriots still want to work out contract extensions for cornerback Asante Samuel and tight end Daniel Graham, both of whom are eligible for unrestricted free agency next spring. ? It appears that Houston coach Gary Kubiak has settled on rookie Wali Lundy as his starting tailback for the rest of the season. ? Punter Todd Sauerbrun, released by Denver two weeks ago, auditioned for Tampa Bay officials this week. The Bucs' incumbent punter, Josh Bidwell, is in the final year of his contract and can become a free agent next spring. Sauerbrun canceled a trip to Detroit, because Lions officials conceded they weren't inclined to make a change from current punter Nick Harris. ? St. Louis right guard Adam Timmerman, who entered the NFL as a seventh-round draft choice, will play in his 200th game on Sunday afternoon. ? Seattle chose Chris Spencer in the first round of the 2005 draft, ostensibly as the eventual heir to starting center Robbie Tobeck. And it appears that center is Spencer's best position. The second-year veteran has started four games at left guard, in place of the injured Floyd "Pork Chop" Womack, and has struggled at times. He'll split playing time this weekend with rookie Rob Sims, a fourth-round draft pick. ? Baltimore has quietly added longtime league defensive coordinator Vic Fangio as a staff consultant to help break down tape and lend a hand to coach Brian Billick. ? Kansas City, which hosts Seattle on Sunday, has won 19 of its last 23 home games against NFC opponents. ? The Atlanta Falcons' top three wide receivers, all of them former first-round draft choices, have combined for 484 yards and two touchdowns. Team officials, giddy over the passing performance of Michael Vick last week, still admit privately that wideouts Michael Jenkins, Roddy White and Ashley Lelie have to pick up the pace. ? Not a lot has gone right for the Cleveland cornerback corps this season, but keep an eye on rookie Jereme Perry, an undrafted free agent from Eastern Michigan. With all the injuries the Browns have endured, Perry is getting more playing time and logged 45 snaps last week. He could be in line for more playing time in nickel situations. ? Dallas rookie free safety Pat Watkins, who has started each of the first six games, could be benched this week. The former Florida State standout, a fifth-round draft choice, has been in position to make plays, but he lacks awareness, especially on the deep passes, and too often loses sight of the ball. There is a chance Watkins could be replaced by 10-year veteran Marcus Coleman, who missed the first four games of the season while serving a suspension for a repeat violation of the substance abuse policy. ? There are a lot of folks in London, including some ESPN.com sources, who insist the city has already won the right to host a regular-season overseas game that will be played in 2007. League officials insist, though, that no such decision has been made, and that a site won't be determined for months. ? The ruptured left Achilles tendon suffered by Giants linebacker LaVar Arrington on Monday night could cost him financially, since a lot of his contract is tied to incentives that are based on playing time.
? The last word: "The only hall it's in is at my house."
-- Tampa Bay kicker Matt Bryant, on whether the Pro Football Hall of Fame has asked for the ball with which he converted last week's 62-yard field goal.
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Hache Man · Oct 28, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 11 New Articles Added 10/26/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 11 New Articles Added 10/26/06)

Updated: Oct. 28, 2006, 1:56 PM ET
Jackson flourishes in new system in St. Louis

By Seth Wickersham
ESPN.com




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Somebody else should be exiting the elevator. Not this guy. Not someone showered, braided, shaved, and bruise-free. He should be packaged like the power back he is -- square, menacing, muscular and well-fed. He should be a brute wearing the evidence of brutality, the cuts, swellings and scars that would deter anyone who might consider messing with him.
But Steven Jackson, in Manhattan for some shopping on an off day in October, strides through the lobby of the W Hotel looking a lot like the models lounging there. A power back shouldn't be so groomed, so put together. He shouldn't be such a, you know, pretty boy. But what with the dreads, the designer threads and the aesthetic uniform touches -- he'll occasionally forgo the protection of hightops for more fashionable lowtops -- Jackson is the first NFLer to bring glamour to a position that's been long on nicknames ("Ironhead," "The Bus") but short on sex appeal.

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After all, Jackson is -- at 6'2'' and 240 pounds, with a 4.4 40 and 5 percent body fat -- a power back for the 21st century. And he's finally being used as one. Heading into the Rams' Week 7 bye, Jackson was second in the NFL in rushing and first in yards from scrimmage.
Every season, there are players whose games are mysteriously elevated, subs and busts who suddenly find themselves amongst the NFL's stat leaders. The catalyst is a system change -- a new head coach, a new coordinator, a new location. Think Steve Young with the Bucs vs. Steve Young with the 49ers. Or think David Carr under new coach Gary Kubiak. Carr, whose QB rating for the first four years of his career was 73.7, has hovered near the top of the charts in that category this season. And Alex Smith, now under the tutelage of new offensive coordinator Norv Turner, has thrown eight TDs and four picks, compared to one and 11 last season.
Before Scott Linehan took over the Rams this past January, Jackson was miscast in St. Louis. It was hard for anyone to understand why then-Rams coach Mike Martz traded up to make Jackson the first running back chosen in the 2004 draft. With Martz calling the plays, the Rams had set a record for most points and yards in a three-year span (1999-2001) by featuring Marshall Faulk, an elusive dancer who could catch as well, if not better, than he could run. Although Faulk was starting to show his age, Jackson was hardly the obvious heir apparent. He was a pounder who averaged less than two receptions a game in three seasons at Oregon State.
Martz's zone-blocking plays included stretch-style runs, similar to the Broncos and Colts schemes, where the back heads outside the hash marks before turning upfield. But Jackson is at his best -- and his fastest -- running straight ahead, plowing over whomever might be in his way. Despite flashes of promise, it was obvious from the start that he didn't have a clear role in the Greatest Show on Turf. It didn't help that Faulk, who publicly pronounced himself a mentor to Jackson, was privately frosty. Jackson, his locker a few feet away from Faulk's, would grumble under his breath when he heard the future Hall of Famer tell reporters that the rookie was his protege. But when the mics turned his way, the new kid went along with the charade. "Sometimes you have to lie," Jackson says now. "Our relationship wasn't that great. But I couldn't be honest at the time." Faulk, unofficially retired and working for the NFL Network, admits the situation was "awkward."
Even when Jackson supplanted Faulk as the starter in 2005, his play, like that of the Rams, was inconsistent. During the first five weeks of the season, when Martz was calling the shots, Jackson didn't have a single game with 20 carries. At mid-season, when a heart condition sidelined Martz and Marc Bulger's season ended with a shoulder injury, Jackson assumed that his workload would increase. But the Rams passed on 61 percent of their plays, and Jackson's 1,046 yards were tempered by his league-leading 47 carries for negative yardage. With spread formations, injuries to three starting linemen and frequent deficits, few holes were opened, leaving Jackson as a power back too tentative to run with power. "He ran straight up," says Torry Holt. "I kept telling him, you've gotta get your pads down."

Harry How/Getty Images
Steven Jackson has 521 yards on 133 carries this season.

When Linehan met with Jackson after being hired, he told his tailback to expect 20 to 25 carries a game. Jackson was skeptical -- he'd heard the same thing from Martz. But Linehan, whose system relies on power blocking out of more base personnel sets and fewer three- and four-receiver formations, did have credibility. The Vikings finished in the top five in rushing twice during his three years as Minnesota's offensive coordinator. And as the Dolphins coordinator in 2005, Linehan oversaw a rushing game that jumped from 31st in 2004 to 12th. So Jackson decided to come to camp in the best shape of his career. He worked out with Holt in St. Louis, running routes for hours before hitting the treadmill until he was dizzy, then visiting a massage therapist twice a week to recover. When Jackson realized in training camp that Linehan would do what he'd promised, the back felt challenged. "I knew I had to prove I was the guy," he says.
Linehan's methods have made it easier, too. Under Martz, the offensive line and running backs held separate position meetings. Now they meet together. Jackson spends less time trying to memorize Martz's 700-page playbook and more time talking with his blockers to make sure everyone's on the same page. And despite both Pro Bowl tackle Orlando Pace and center Andy McCollum missing time with injuries, Jackson has had at least 20 carries in every game. Of those, 77 percent have been between the tackles, up from 71 percent last season. Says Linehan: "We fit our running game around what he does well."
Instead of trying to string out the defense, as he did in Martz's system, Jackson is cutting back sooner, inside the hashes, which exploits over-aggressive 4-3 defenses. Two new plays have helped Jackson pile up big numbers: the inside-zone run and the lead draw. With the Rams up 18-10 in the fourth quarter against the Broncos on Sept. 10, Jackson carried right, planning to run behind right tackle Alex Barron. But he cut back left as soon as Al Wilson and D.J. Williams overpursued, resulting in a 37-yard run that sealed the game. Against the Packers on Oct. 8, Jackson ran a lead draw, barreling through two tacklers and dragging Charles Woodson, who was clutching Jackson's facemask, for a 14-yard gain. "I've played 11 years," says Stephen Davis, Jackson's backup. "I've never seen a guy break as many tackles."
Or someone as focused on how he looks when doing so. At a recent practice, every Ram wore white socks and gray short sleeves save for one. Jackson wore blue socks and and a white long-sleeved shirt, by his own admission because he wanted to stand out. And in two-plus NFL seasons, he has yet to wear the same uniform combo twice. The color of his mouthpiece, wristband or shoes are always different. Makes sense, since Jackson has 30 tailored suits, at $3,000 a pop. "I love fashion, I love clothes," the 23-year-old says. "If I have the chance to model, I want to do it."
Two nights after his trip to New York, Jackson is in the St. Louis suburbs, sitting at a table in La Salsa, a restaurant where he broadcasts his weekly radio show. A line of fans waiting for his autograph snakes to the door. He signs the typical array of photos, hats, shirts and footballs before an older man reaches into a bag and drops a pair of scuffed blue-and-gold cleats on the table. "These are my shoes!" Jackson says. "How did you know they were mine?"
Easy. They're low tops.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 30, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Manning continues to work magic

posted: Monday, October 30, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos

The Indianapolis Colts' 34-31 win over the Denver Broncos was probably the game of the year up to this point. Most people figured it would be a relatively low scoring game, which it was through the first half. However both offenses came alive in the second half with Indianapolis scoring 28 points and Denver scoring 17 after halftime.

This game was simply another case of Peyton Manning directing one of his patented last minute drives. Manning looked calm and in total control the entire second half. There is simply no better quarterback in the league at orchestrating last minute drives.

The win definitely puts Indianapolis in the driver's seat for home field advantage throughout the playoffs. While it proves the Colts can score on any defense, you still can't help but wonder just how far the Colts are going to make it in the playoffs when they struggle to stop the run. The Broncos were able to run up the middle at will against the Colts' undersized front seven. With rookie running back Mike Bell gaining 136 yards on 15 carries and fullback Cecil Sapp breaking two long runs, the Colts are going to have to find a way to stop the run in order to make it to the Super Bowl.

The good news is that the Colts seem to have solved the problem of its own running game. Rookie Joseph Addai continues to shine coming off the bench. Addai rushed for 93 yards on 17 carries and caught five passes for 37 yards. People are going to continue to wonder how much longer Dominic Rhodes is going to start, but as long as Addai gets his carries and continues to produce, it does not really matter who starts the game.

While Dwight Freeney managed to get his first sack of the season, the Colts as a whole did not do a great job of pressuring Denver QB Jake Plummer. Plummer completed 13 of 21 attempts for 174 yards and one touchdown and was only sacked once.

It will be hard to make it all the way to the Super Bowl if the Colts can't stop the run or create turnovers in the clutch to stop drives. You simply can't plan on outscoring opponents if you want to win the big one. The question is, did Denver's offense finally wake up, or does Indianapolis need to find a stronger run defense. We should have a better idea this coming Sunday as the Colts travel to New England to take on the Patriots.

Hache Man · Oct 30, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Failure to adjust doomed Denver

posted: Monday, October 30, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos

I have said previously this season that Denver has one of the best defenses in the NFL, and I am still buying that stock even in the wake of their worst defensive performance of the season in a 34-31 home loss to the Colts.

I also still believe Denver defensive coordinator Larry Coyer is one of the best in the business, but his lack of adjustment was the Broncos' undoing against Indianapolis.

Wilson

Denver is not a heavy blitz team, evidenced by the fact that their linebackers have zero sacks on the season. Middle linebacker Al Wilson and outside linebackers D.J. Williams and Ian Gold are the best LB trio in the league and can all run sideline to sideline, so it seems a little odd that Coyer does not blitz them more considering the speed factor. Still, it's hard to argue with the strategy because the defense has been so successful to this point.

The refusal to adjust that game plan got the best of the Broncos last week, though. Recent history has shown that the best way to disrupt the Colts' offense is to bring blitz pressure and get Peyton Manning on the move. You need to look no further than losses last season to San Diego and Pittsburgh for proof of that, and with the speed the Broncos have at linebacker they had a great opportunity to bring one or two of them and disrupt the Indianapolis passing attack.
Denver never did, though, and at the end of the day that was the difference. The Broncos were never able to get Manning out of rhythm and he had all day to throw his short-to-intermediate crossing routes.
I still believe in the Denver defense, but I do not believe in the game plan that was employed last weekend.

Chiefs running game starting to click
What in the world has gotten into the Chiefs' running game lately? The much-maligned offensive line has finally started to pave the way for Larry Johnson to get into a groove and the ground game is starting to look like what we expected all along.

Johnson

The biggest difference isn't what is happening on the field, though, but rather what is happening off it. For the first time ever the offensive line, tight ends and running backs are watching practice tape together. What are they watching? The nine-on-seven session that is basically an inside running drill and the team sessions that take place at the end of practice.

This allows them to bond as a group and talk with the coaches on a daily basis about what is and is not working. The coaches have also given the players a little more latitude in expressing their opinions about what they are more comfortable doing as it relates to the running game. That improved communication is paying huge dividends on Sundays as the ground game is finally hitting its stride. The results? Over the last two games Johnson has 67 carries for 287 yards and five touchdowns.

Hache Man · Oct 30, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Updated: Oct. 30, 2006

Whispers from around the NFL

Pro Football Weekly





<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
? LB Lance Briggs is essentially playing his final games as a Chicago Bear. We're told there's no way the Bears can afford to keep their Pro Bowl weakside 'backer with rising stars like DT Tommie Harris also nearing the end of their contracts. Briggs is in the midst of a third straight solid season and will almost certainly attract monster offers in free agency.
? Eagles WR Reggie Brown has impressed the team immensely this season, especially with Donte' Stallworth missing four games in a five-week stretch. Brown has shown an ability to separate from defenders, something that scouts questioned when he came into the league in 2005.
<TABLE class=tableheadFixWidth cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=200 align=right><TBODY><TR class=stathead><TD class=whitelink colSpan=2>Tatum Bell</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow align=right><TD align=left>

Running Back
Denver Broncos

Profile</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD align=middle><TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width=190 bgColor=#ffffff border=0><TBODY><TR class=stathead align=middle><TD align=middle colSpan=5>2006 SEASON STATISTICS</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND: #bcbcb4" align=right><TD width="17%">Att</TD><TD width="17%">Yds</TD><TD width="17%">Avg</TD><TD width="17%">Long</TD><TD width="17%">TD</TD></TR><TR align=right bgColor=#999999><TD>137</TD><TD>612</TD><TD>4.5</TD><TD>39</TD><TD>2</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
? The play of Tatum Bell in the featured-back role in Denver has impressed many around the league. "He looks like he's shot out of a rocket sometimes," one assistant coach told PFW. "He's exceptionally fast, but he's running up inside so much better than he used to. [He's] running with authority, not just relying on his burst."
? Panthers CBs Ken Lucas and Chris Gamble both played at a Pro Bowl level in 2005. Our sources don't believe either starting cornerback is playing near that level this season. In fact, rookie CB Richard Marshall has outplayed the duo at times.
? Should the Cardinals decide to cut the cord with head coach Dennis Green before the season is over -- his dismissal during the team's bye week would hardly shock anybody -- we hear the most likely interim replacements would be either defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast or assistant head coach/linebackers Frank Bush. We're also told, though, that neither Pendergast nor Bush is likely to be seriously considered for the head-coaching job next season.
? Word is Patriots C-G Russ Hochstein could be out for a few weeks after injuring his knee. With their most versatile reserve interior lineman sidelined, the Patriots have been working Nick Kaczur at guard and have added Billy Yates from the practice squad to serve as the primary backup at center.
? With rookie Leon Washington beginning to establish himself as the Jets' lead back, we hear that veteran Kevan Barlow is growing frustrated that he is getting pigeonholed as nothing more than a physical, short-yardage back. If Washington proves worthy of the starting job, it won't be a surprise if the Jets decide to go with Cedric Houston, a cheaper option than Barlow, to fill the short-yardage RB role in 2007.
? Though the Dolphins still believe PK Olindo Mare is a valuable weapon on kickoffs, we hear his struggles this season on long-range FG attempts could lead the team to bring in a new placekicker next season.
? Word is Jets rookie CB Drew Coleman has earned a starting position over Justin Miller, a second-round pick in the 2005 draft, because Coleman is more dependable as a tackler and in coverage. We hear the team values Miller as a kick returner, but that may not be enough for him to keep his roster spot in 2007.
? Teammates and Raiders sources alike are gaining more respect each passing week with the progress shown by QB Andrew Walter. They find it striking how calm his demeanor is and how he's making more checks and audibles at the line of scrimmage and settles himself before his throws. It wouldn't come as a surprise if Aaron Brooks, barring injury to Walter, has taken his last snap in an Oakland uniform.
? Besides accuracy issues and pressing too much, one major flaw of Broncos QB Jake Plummer this season has been the way he has regressed at reading defenses and making adjustments on the fly.
? Chiefs DE Jared Allen's skills as a pass rusher and his knack for stripping the ball do not go unnoticed by league sources, but one trait that impresses as much as anything is how well he wraps up as a tackler. "There aren't many people who get away from him once he's in the vicinity," one AFC scout said.
? Erik Pears got first crack at replacing injured OLT Matt Lepsis for the Broncos. Pears, who went undrafted out of Colorado State and spent last season on the practice squad and last summer in NFL Europe, has good size, footwork and a long reach. But if it doesn't work out, veteran OT Adam Meadows or starting G Cooper Carlisle could enter the mix. Meadows, a former starter for the Colts, is back after two years of retirement, and Carlisle played tackle collegiately at Florida.
<TABLE class=tableheadFixWidth cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=200 align=right><TBODY><TR class=stathead><TD class=whitelink colSpan=2>Justin Fargas</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow align=right><TD align=left>

Running Back
Oakland Raiders

Profile</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD align=middle><TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width=190 bgColor=#ffffff border=0><TBODY><TR class=stathead align=middle><TD align=middle colSpan=5>2006 SEASON STATISTICS</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND: #bcbcb4" align=right><TD width="17%">Att</TD><TD width="17%">Yds</TD><TD width="17%">Avg</TD><TD width="17%">Long</TD><TD width="17%">TD</TD></TR><TR align=right bgColor=#999999><TD>61</TD><TD>285</TD><TD>4.7</TD><TD>48</TD><TD>0</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
? The increased use of Justin Fargas in the Raiders' running game has really given the offense a boost. He provides the ability to hit the hole and the corner in a hurry, which is a key, given the club's OL problems and inability to hold blocks for long.
? Chiefs WR Samie Parker is doing a better job of working to get open in his third season, but we're told he still could stand to show more toughness and better concentration.
? Although the Redskins said they gave backup QB Jason Campbell two days' worth of snaps with the first team because of Mark Brunell's sore ribs, we hear Campbell could be named the starter if the Redskins don't win both of their next two games, against the Cowboys and Eagles.
? Cowboys head coach Bill Parcells recently hinted that a change of starters could be in order at an unknown position. He didn't reveal what that spot might be, but sources say ILB Akin Ayodele, who has shown little presence, might be the one on thin ice.
? The Giants are quietly confident about DE Mathias Kiwanuka's ability to fill in for Osi Umenyiora, should Umenyiora's hip flexor be a lingering problem. Kiwanuka has shown a good burst so far and better quickness than he did at the end of his Boston College career.
? The Titans' coaches have been pleased with the play of ORT David Stewart, who was inactive all 16 games in '05 and only entered the starting lineup this season because of injuries. Sources say the mild-mannered Stewart has harnessed a healthy aggressiveness without being flagged for penalties.
? Sources close to the Falcons tell us WR Ashley Lelie, acquired in a preseason trade with the Broncos, has played his way into the starting lineup with his big-play ability, ahead of second-year WR Roddy White. A 2005 first-round pick, White hasn't made the progress that the coaching staff expected this season. Too many dropped passes and a lack of focus were cited as primary reasons for White's drop down the depth chart.
? Sources tell us to keep an eye on the O-line situation in Charlotte. We hear that although C Justin Hartwig's groin is finally healthy, the high-priced free agent will remain on the bench until second-year C Geoff Hangartner, who has played well in his seven starts, falters.
? Word out of Tampa Bay is rookie QB Bruce Gradkowski and WR Joey Galloway are not on the same page. Sources tell us that's because the two haven't worked much together. We hear Galloway usually sat out the second practice in two-a-days during training camp, which was the time Gradkowski, a backup at that point, got most of his reps.
? We hear the biggest reason why Falcons RS Allen Rossum is playing like he did when he made the Pro Bowl in 2004 is his return to health and renewed confidence. Rossum battled hamstring injuries last season and struggled judging the ball in the air.
? We hear that while there has been no movement on extending Bears head coach Lovie Smith's contract, the Bears recognize a job extremely well done and have every intention of rewarding the 2005 NFL Coach of the Year. Smith's asking price has gone nowhere but up with the stellar start, but there's a sense that Smith has no interest in walking away from Chicago.
? Packers PK Dave Rayner -- who had a potential franchise-record 55-yard field goal nullified in Week 7 -- has turned heads with a nice start, but the second-year kicker has to prove he can handle the inclement conditions to come in the second half.
<TABLE class=tableheadFixWidth cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=200 align=right><TBODY><TR class=stathead><TD class=whitelink colSpan=2>Marcus Robinson</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow align=right><TD align=left>

Wide receiver
Minnesota Vikings

Profile</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD align=middle><TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width=190 bgColor=#ffffff border=0><TBODY><TR class=stathead align=middle><TD align=middle colSpan=5>2006 SEASON STATISTICS</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND: #bcbcb4" align=right><TD width="17%">Rec</TD><TD width="17%">Yds</TD><TD width="17%">Avg</TD><TD width="17%">Long</TD><TD width="17%">TD</TD></TR><TR align=right bgColor=#999999><TD>13</TD><TD>200</TD><TD>15.4</TD><TD>40</TD><TD>3</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
? Vikings WR Marcus Robinson is expected to miss two games with a lower-back injury, but we hear it will not require surgery and isn't related to the problems that have plagued him throughout his career.
? After their Week 8 bye, the Lions expect to have ORT Rex Tucker (knee) and OLG Ross Verba (hamstring) back in the starting lineup, meaning they will be as healthy up front as they've been all year.
? The way we hear it, the buzz around Bengals headquarters was that WR Peter Warrick, the fourth player selected in the 2000 draft by Cincinnati, wasn't in the greatest of shape when the team brought him in for a workout last week. Injuries have hurt the Bengals' depth at wide receiver -- so much so that rookie S Ethan Kilmer is working with the receivers. Kilmer was a wide receiver at Penn State.
? According to one source close to the Steelers, Falcons TE Alge Crumpler's success vs. Pittsburgh's secondary in Week 7 further drove home the point that the Steelers don't match up well with big, athletic tight ends.
? The Texans' secondary got a major lift from the return of CB DeMarcus ***gins in Week 7. A source close to the club says ***gins' return is allowing top CB Dunta Robinson to play with more confidence.
? Ravens head coach Brian Billick is running the Baltimore offense, and we hear he's emphasizing that offensive players learn not only their assignments, but also those of positions they may play. For instance, wide receivers are learning all of the receiver positions. We're told it's hoped this will help the Ravens have a little more in-game strategic flexibility.
? Even though the Seahawks were well-prepared to play without starting ORT Sean Locklear after he missed most of practice last week with an ankle injury, we hear they were definitely caught off guard when the league announced two days before Seattle's game in Kansas City that it had issued a one-game suspension to Locklear for violating its personal-conduct policy stemming from a domestic-violence charge for assaulting his girlfriend in January. Head coach Mike Holmgren said he "had an inkling" Locklear could be suspended at some point this season, but added that he was surprised by the timing of the penalty.
? Not only has Colts LB Cato June been playing extremely well as of late, racking up double-digit tackles on a pretty regular basis, we're also told he has become much more of a vocal leader on the field, especially since the team's other more vocal defenders, S Bob Sanders and DT Montae Reagor, have been out with injuries.
? One of the many problems with the Niners' porous defense this season that hasn't been talked about much is the increase in missed tackles by ILB Derek Smith because of a vision problem in his left eye. Smith, who has exceeded 100 tackles in nine straight seasons, was fitted last week with a clear visor above his face mask in an effort to correct the problem. ? While free-agent addition Will Witherspoon and newly re-signed Pisa Tinoisamoa have been getting most of the credit for the major improvement in the Rams' LB corps, team insiders tell us SLB Brandon Chillar has also been doing his part this season after being a liability more often than not last season. No longer on the field in nickel situations, as he had been under Larry Marmie last season, Chillar has seemed a lot more comfortable playing primarily up on the line in new coordinator Jim Haslett's more aggressive scheme.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 30, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Vick, Falcons make statement

posted: Monday, October 30, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers

With the exception of the Atlanta Falcons, it was a disappointing weekend in the NFC South.

The Falcons won a huge statement game on Sunday against an explosive Cincinnati Bengals team. Offensive coordinator Greg Knapp has done an outstanding job over the last few weeks of utilizing Michael Vick, while keeping defenses off balance with his play selection.

Vick has been unbelievable over the last two weeks in the way he has thrown the football. He continues to put a lot of pressure on opposing defenses with his ability to move in the pocket and attack down the field. On top of that, his connection with TE Alge Crumpler continues to improve each week. Crumpler is Vick's favorite target and he is becoming one of the better tight ends in the NFL. His ability to adjust his routes when Vick escapes outside on the edges of the pocket puts a lot a pressure on the backend of coverages. The Falcons' offense is an explosive unit that features playmakers in Ashley Lelie, Michael Jenkins, Warrick Dunn and rookie Jerious Norwood. With that said, the Falcons will face Detroit and Cleveland over the next two weeks which should allow them to take control of the NFC South.

The Carolina Panthers continue to struggle and were embarrassed Sunday night at home against the Dallas Cowboys. This team is currently last in the league in third down completion percentage (25 percent) and when you look at the offensive playmakers, it's unbelievable that the Panthers are not any better on third down conversions. The problem in my mind revolves around the inconsistency of the offensive line that has resulted in the Panthers getting away from the power rushing attack. Also, DeShaun Foster is more of a finesse runner than power runner that hasn't had much room to run and is basically creating on his own. The other thing that has haunted this team on third down has been dropped passes in critical situations by it receivers. The bye week could not come at a better time for the Panthers.

After disappointing loses yesterday by the Saints and Buccaneers, let take a quick look at this week match up between the two teams.

If the New Orleans Saints are going to win the NFC South, they need to win games they are supposed to and it starts next week in Tampa Bay. Quarterback Drew Brees must do a better job of protecting the ball and making the proper reads and decisions in the passing game. If Bucs' QB Bruce Gradkowski has time in the pocket, the Buccaneers can take advantage of the Saints secondary by using their size and athleticism to create match up problems on the outside perimeter. Both teams will need to run the ball to set up their short controlled passing attack. Look for both Jon Gruden and Sean Payton to implement plans this week that spread the field to create individual mismatches they can attack and exploit on the backend in coverage. Also, whichever team has the most success on the ground will win this NFC South game on Sunday.

Hache Man · Oct 30, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

MVP's in Atlanta, but it's not Vick

posted: Monday, October 30, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Atlanta Falcons

OK, before you start firing off to me about the Mannings, the Bradys, the LTs, the Breeses, the McNabbs, and whomever else you deem worthy, let me tell you why my MVP of the first half of the season at least deserves consideration.

He hasn't gotten there with statistics, because for one he plays a position that doesn't typically tally record-setting figures. He'll also never have huge stats, most likely, because the QB he depends on to feed him the ball can be woefully inconsistent. But, reciprocally, when that QB is wonderfully consistent this MVP's numbers, especially his receptions for touchdowns, are among the week's best.
For you ESPN The Magazine junkies, I wrote five pages on the guy a few years ago, and particularly detailed how he uses his healthy and blessed rump to gain position on defenders. (His nickname is "Donkey Trough.") His 26 receptions might be tied for 46th, but he's the most important player - and one of the best blockers -- on a 5-2 team that, in addition to that woefully inconsistent QB, has had a defensive line crumpled with injuries.
That's right. My first half MVP is Alge Crumpler.
Where would Atlanta be without Crump? More specifically, where would Michael Vick be without Crump? Vick has been white-hot by Vick standards the past two weeks, with seven touchdowns and two picks. (Sorry, but after sitting in Denver yesterday and watching Peyton Manning miss only seven passes in 39 attempts on the road against the Broncos, he and Brady are in an entire different league than everyone else.) Still, Vick has shown more of a passing touch recently, and while he deserves accolades, without Crumpler that rise as a passer simply wouldn't be there. Crumpler is the only guy Vick trusts, the only guy Vick has ever trusted.
Crumpler gets annoyed when folks call him a "safety blanket" because it implies that he only runs eight-yard digs when in fact he's a downfield threat. But sorry, Crump, the label is true. Vick needs you. It seems like every NFL insider has had reports recently citing "unnamed sources" that spout off about how disappointing Atlanta's receivers are. That's true too.
Nobody does more with less than Crumpler. Aside from being Atlanta's only consistent aerial threat and constantly facing double teams, Crumpler simply has fewer chances than anyone else. The Falcons may call 37 passes a game, but Vick automatically shrinks that figure with his 8.5 carries each week. Vick shrinks Crumpler's chances more by being sacked so often, three times a game so far this year. Toss in that Vick is a career 54.3 percent passer, and we're really getting low.
In 2006 Vick averages 13 completions a game. Manning can do that in a quarter. So while Crumpler's 26 receptions don't have fantasy guys drooling, they account for 26 percent of his team's receptions, a higher total than Chad Johnson and Terrell Owens, not to mention fellow tight ends Antonio Gates and Tony Gonzalez.
Considering what Crumpler has to do to get a catch, how amazing is it that he's tied for fourth with five touchdowns? Or that he's had at least one reception in 54 straight games? Oh yeah, and he also blocks for the league's fourth-leading rusher and the top overall running attack.
Good enough for another Pro Bowl selection? Darn right. But MVP sounds so much better, doesn't it?

Hache Man · Oct 30, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Stars come out in Week 8

posted: Monday, October 30, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Fantasy NFL

Sometimes it's not about the little people, your third wide receiver or which kicker you choose. Those are the questions we get the most in the fantasy department. Eric, I really need to win this week, because I'm playing my brother's girlfriend's plumber. So, Reggie Bush or Jerious Norwood?

Get those all the time. But sometimes, you just need your main guys to do something special, give you a chance to win. And when they don't play well, well, you're in trouble.
Oh sure, Thomas Jones, Fred Taylor and Ahman Green got it done, but they aren't every week stars. Drew Brees and his receivers rocked. A pair of under the radar tight ends scored twice in the early games.
But this week it was about the big names. Larry Johnson and LaDainian Tomlinson went off. Donovan McNabb and Brian Westbrook did not. Michael Vick stepped up again. Carnell Williams did not, again. You own those Eagles, it would have been tough to win. You needed something from them. You played Eli Manning and Tiki Barber, you needed more. It's tough to tell week to week, but fantasy owners can definitely be held hostage by their stars. If they don't perform, good luck.
I debated the quarterback situation for one of my teams up until the deadline, finally sticking with Eli in what I knew was not going to be a great game, not with the wind blowing the way it was at Giants Stadium. Eli finds Plaxico Burress early and ... well, that was it! But it didn't matter what Eli did, because the running backs on that team were Deuce McAllister and Warrick Dunn. They tried, of course. But that team, it's done. Or Dunn.
Philadelphia entered Week 8 leading the NFL in yards per game, and just a shade away from the most points per game. McNabb led fantasy in points, and it wasn't real close. Westbrook was tied for being the top running back. Separating my personal anger of the Eagles failing to score a touchdown at home against a reeling opponent that was 0-3 on the road, think about the fantasy implications. McNabb delivered single digit fantasy points, about half the points Houston backup Sage Rosenfels managed. Seneca Wallace had three more touchdowns than McNabb. Brandon Jacobs not only outscored Westbrook, but he outrushed him! So did two Jaguars, two Giants and two Packers. OK, does that give you context how disappointing the Eagles were?
Jaguars 13, Eagles 6: Give credit to the Jaguars. They benched their quarterback, whether it was due to injury or poor play, we might never know. Byron Leftwich watched as David Garrard played a perfect game. Why throw when the defense lets you run for more than 200 yards. Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew looked terrific. Garrard threw for 87 yards, but the game was never in doubt. My question is, does Leftwich play next week? Should he?
MVP: Taylor topped 100 yards rushing for the second time in three games, and might have had a Larry Johnson type game had a second quarter 54-yard touchdown run not been called back. Taylor has a favorable schedule the next few weeks against the Titans and Texans. And please, stop worrying about the carries Drew gets; if it keeps Taylor fresh, so be it.
LVP: It's a tie between Philly's two stars. McNabb's previous worst fantasy game was 17 points, and he had reached 24 or more points five times. Guess fantasy owners got greedy. Westbrook had a seven-point game in Week 6, so this was a bit better.
Interesting: Donte' Stallworth returned for the first time since Week 4, and caught 56 yards worth of passes, but to no avail. McNabb barely looked at his wide receivers, bringing back the days prior to Terrell Owens. Running backs and tight ends caught 13 of the 18 completions. What does this mean for fantasy? Reggie Brown can't be a No. 1 fantasy receiver, regardless of Stallworth's status, not if McNabb can have games like this.
Bears 41, 49ers 10: Easiest game on the schedule to predict, as Chicago acted like an angry team, even though it was still unbeaten. But that Monday night game against Arizona, in which the defense had to save the day, the Bears talked about it like it was a loss. So they took care of poor San Fran early with three first-quarter touchdowns. Alex Smith never had a chance. The Bears scored 41 points before the half.
MVP: Welcome back, Rex Grossman. My only concern entering the game was whether it would be such a blowout and so easy to run the ball that Grossman would throw 20 times and Brian Griese would do the handing off in the fourth quarter. Instead, Grossman delivered three touchdowns, though none to Bernard Berrian. If you had tight end Desmond Clark active, good for you. I was fortunate to sign him off free agency in a pair of leagues on Sunday morning. Sometimes you need a little luck, too.
LVP: Berrian certainly didn't deliver, but Smith wasn't real good. Hey, if you couldn't see that one coming...
Interesting: Frank Gore is why stats are misleading. Until he broke off the 53-yarder, he was en route to an average day. Instead, his 12 carries net him 111 yards, the same total as Thomas Jones. Hey, it counts the same, but we know how they got there. At least Gore didn't fumble.
Falcons 29, Bengals 27: Alright, I'm buying on Michael Vick now. I know it's only two weeks, but it's against two good teams, the Bengals and Steelers, and it's seven touchdown passes. He passed for 291 yards, on the road, outdoors, and even ran enough to be relevant there with 55 yards. What a weapon, and certainly worthy of fantasy attention as he appears headed for top five QB status this season.
MVP: It's Vick again, clearly, but let's give some props to the other quarterback, last year's No. 1, as Carson Palmer threw a pair of touchdowns and got all three big receivers to 70 yards or more. Chris Henry certainly helps this offense, and Chad Johnson scored for the first time since Week 2.
LVP: Is it not interesting that Vick's top two passing games, dominant passing games, coincide with a second straight poor rushing game from Warrick Dunn? Hey, if you own Vick and Dunn on the same team, you didn't think they were going to each rush for 100 yards every week, did you? Now neither of them are getting close, but the team is winning.
Interesting: Guess it's time to stop expecting Chris Perry to play a major role, though it could still happen. But Perry cannot be blamed for the continuing struggles of Rudi Johnson. Sure, he scored, salvaging your fantasy game, but 46 yards isn't special. In his past five games he's topped 65 yards rushing one time.
Packers 31, Cardinals 14: Another predictable one, as I had the Packers scoring 27. The Cardinals again looked terrible, allowing not only one, but two Packers running backs to top 100 yards. Last time that happened? Brett Favre was in high school that week.
MVP: Ahman Green scored two touchdowns, which he hadn't done in nearly two seasons. Green entered this game with one rushing score. But I predicted Green would have a big day (load up when playing Arizona, people). Vernand Morency? Arizona clearly has more problems than Edgerrin James, who by the way had his best fantasy day of the season. Maybe there's some value there yet.
LVP: Matt Leinart threw two first-quarter touchdowns in that Bears game, but since then he's looked every bit like a raw, erratic rookie. He didn't get picked in this game until late, but four sacks and 61 yards passing in the first half, that's terrible. More importantly, since Leinart wasn't regarded as a great play this week, it's two straight weeks of nothing by Anquan Boldin.
Interesting: Favre threw 29 interceptions last season, making his other contributions for fantasy owners meaningless (20 TDs, nearly 4,000 yards). Now Favre is making smarter reads, and in the Packers' three wins, he's got six touchdowns, no interceptions. He only has five interceptions in seven games overall, putting him on pace for his cleanest season in a decade. And you think he's retiring after this 6-10 season? C'mon!
Titans 28, Texans 22: Fifty points were scored, and starting quarterbacks David Carr and Vince Young combined for 200 yards passing. So, you figure, Travis Henry and Wali Lundy must have gone nuts. Well, not really. Sage Rosenfels and Owen Daniels? Weird fantasy game.
MVP: Well, I doubt anyone had Rosenfels in the lineup (if you did, e-mail me with a link, but really, c'mon), so how about Daniels, the tight end who entered the week fairly relevant, ranked tied for 13th at the position, but owned in a mere 11.5 percent of leagues. True story, I actually signed him on one team Sunday 10 minutes before game time. Next week I might stick with Daniels over Chris Cooley.
LVP: Just when we thought we could trust Travis Henry, he averages 1.9 yards per carry. LenDale White got some early yards, but Henry had his chances. You want weird? Texans had 427 total yards, Titans 197. And two quarterbacks who threw for only 87 yards passing won Sunday.
Interesting: Some Texans fans had been complaining that I wasn't giving Carr enough credit. One astute reader pointed out that much of his fancy passer rating was fashioned in the first quarter. Well, that makes sense. In this game Carr did complete 15 of 21 passes, but turned the ball over three times, a truly Bledsoian performance. Guess that makes Rosenfels into Tony Romo, though Carr will continue to start. This is why some fantasy leagues use team quarterbacks, as overall, Houston delivered 299 passing yards and three scores.
Chiefs 35, Seahawks 28: Definitely a winnable game for the battered, road Seahawks, who continue to struggle running the ball, and stopping the run. Larry Johnson didn't break off a 95-yarder, but he did score four touchdowns. Seneca Wallace made mistakes, but how many QBs can win when the defense permits 499 total yards?
MVP: Well, Michael Bennett did run for 38 yards. Of course, the guy ahead of him on the depth chart had 181 total yards and scored four touchdowns. LJ is back.
LVP: Why do people keep assuming Maurice Morris will "figure things out" and become a good play? And why do these same people assume Shaun Alexander will be fine?
Interesting: There were a number of fantasy heroes in this game, with Damon Huard topping 300 yards when there was a serious Brodie Croyle threat, Tony Gonzalez topping 100 yards and Darrell Jackson scoring. But Seattle tight end Jerramy Stevens caught a touchdown pass and looks like a nice second-half play. He's available in more than half of ESPN's leagues.
Ravens 35, Saints 22: I took a chance in predicting Baltimore in this one over America's team, and feel pretty good about the result, with the Ravens winning on the road and Jamal Lewis bouncing back from a tough schedule with a big game. Of course, Drew Brees made things far more interesting with a pair of interceptions returned for touchdowns. Who does he think he is, Donovan?
MVP: Brees threw for 383 yards and three scores (with three picks as well), but wide receivers Marques Colston and Joe Horn were also very productive, getting 289 yards and all the scores. I figured Colston would be worth playing, but Horn looks reborn the past few weeks. Guess that's how things go when there's no running game.
LVP: Hate to keep highlighting the team that lost, but 27 yards rushing from Deuce McAllister and Reggie Bush is barely more than Steve McNair ran for. Bush, we expect this from, since he hasn't rushed well all season, but McAllister was averaging 4.9 yards per carry. Bush? Four receptions for five yards, 16 yards rushing and a costly interception. Not pretty. Stick with Deuce in future weeks.
Interesting: McNair isn't held in high regard in fantasy, but this three-touchdown game might change that 57 percent ownership. McNair only threw six incomplete passes and even rushed for a touchdown. He ran for a touchdown only once in 2004 and 2005. What's interesting about Brees is that the Saints have only two losses, and he's passed for 383 and 349 yards in those games. If you think the Saints might lose the next two weeks at Tampa Bay and Pittsburgh, don't sit the New Orleans QB!
Giants 17, Buccaneers 3: Workmanlike win for the Giants, who flexed defensive muscle again. This is not the same team that made the playoffs last season with Eli putting up late-game heroics. The Giants have won four straight games due to that pass rush and defense, holding the Bucs and Redskins to a field goal each and forcing the Cowboys to give up on their QB.
MVP: Not much here in a game where neither team moved the ball well, but Plaxico Burress delivered another double digit game with 86 yards and a score. Tiki Barber and Eli Manning were disappointing, but Plaxico now has five touchdowns in seven games. He might end up in double digits. Meanwhile, Eli continues his TD game streak, but can we get more than one?
LVP: At least Tiki got 88 total yards. On a day with the wind blowing, Carnell Williams stalled after some bounceback games, getting a mere 20 yards rushing, 16 on one play. In the end he had 54 total yards, so he's not much different than Tiki.
Interesting: Honestly, I don't have too many doubts that Brandon Jacobs could handle 20 carries per game, and score double digit touchdowns per season. He's averaging more than five yards per rush, and has scored three straight games. And this isn't a guy getting five yards per game. He's averaging 45 yards the past three weeks.
Chargers 38, Rams 24: Lots of numbers to enjoy here, with Marc Bulger putting up big stats again and Steven Jackson scoring, but still the Chargers won by two scores. This line was deceiving, with the Chargers favored by 10. Most of you figured it would be close and the Rams could cover. Well, it was relatively close, but the Rams didn't cover. Two touchdowns doesn't seem like much, does it?
MVP: Two of the scores came early, and you could tell Tomlinson was on his way to a monster game after not topping 100 yards rushing since Week 1. Still think this guy is a fantasy disappointment?
LVP: No obvious choices here. Philip Rivers would have done more had there been a need to throw more, but you'll take 206 yards and a score. This was the worst game of the season for Torry Holt, who had scored in five consecutive games.
Interesting: Even Michael Turner got into the act Sunday, or it would have been another four-score game for LT. Turner appeared to be in the dog house the past few weeks, falling out of favor as a fantasy flex play after the breaking off a 73-yarder and running for 138 yards in Week 2. Turner still hasn't caught a pass since that week, and even with his five touches Sunday, it's a bit odd a guy averaging seven yards per touch has only 10 of them the past three weeks.
Browns 20, Jets 13: Nah, I can't figure out Chad Pennington either. I thought he was a relatively safe play in this one, but instead he barely tops 100 yards. How can that be? How can Leon Washington do nothing and Pennington be that bad? How can Reuben Droughns carry 33 times for 125 yards, when he has only one game all season with more than 18 carries and 65 yards? The Jets are a .500 team, that's how.
MVP: I can't say Droughns is a weekly play. Normally we tell fantasy owners to rely on any running back who carries that many times, but can we expect this many touches normally?
LVP: Pennington's past two road games have been losses in Cleveland and Jacksonville, with no touchdowns, five picks and 179 yards, total. That's bad. But he's been so bad, maybe we need to reconsider using Laveranues Coles weekly. Only 40 yards, but at least that's more than Braylon Edwards (21 yards).
Interesting: New York's lone official touchdown came when Justin Miller brought a kickoff back 99 yards. Do you care in fantasy? Well, the otherwise below average Jets defense gets those points, and that's three touchdown returns for Miller in his past nine games.
Raiders 20, Steelers 13: Well, I can say I'm glad I didn't play Ben Roethlisberger, though my concern was that the concussion would hold him back. I don't think that was it. He was just erratic, after two solid games. Are we going to see inconsistency all season? I won't rip the Raiders defense, for it has actually played well much of the season. It's been the offense. It was bad against Pittsburgh as well, but Big Ben threw a pair of picks that got returned for scores. Reminds me of the Bucs-Eagles game last week, in which Tampa Bay couldn't score a touchdown, but won anyway. Ah, such fond memories. I don't know about Ben, though I don't want to waffle on his value. If I knew he would have played this game, I would have used him, absolutely. Nobody would have said otherwise. Big Ben did top 300 yards, but 197 of them came after it was 20-6.
MVP: Not much to choose from here, unless you played the Raiders defense, which I doubt. Willie Parker has been mainly all or nothing this season, but this was in between, with 83 yards and a receiving touchdown. Amazingly, he nearly matched Oakland's total yards.
LVP: Pick a Raider. You never would have used Andrew Walter, but five completions, 51 yards? Randy Moss had a nice streak going and it ended with a thud, with 20 yards on two receptions. LaMont Jordan played, but it sure looks like Justin Fargas has passed him on the depth chart, though Jordan has had back problems. How did Pittsburgh not win this one?
Interesting: Hey, there was a Jerry Porter sighting! The unhappy receiver did catch one-fifth of Walter's completions, but alas, that means he caught one pass. Porter should be owned in fantasy, but, and I can't believe I'm writing this, you might need to wait for Aaron Brooks to return for Porter to have value.
Colts 34, Broncos 31: Best game of the day, and further proof that you never, ever, ever sit Peyton Manning, even if the opponent doesn't allow touchdowns. Manning had no trouble moving the ball after the half, finding Reggie Wayne for three touchdowns, and a two-point conversion. Why play favorites? Marvin Harrison owners aren't pleased!
MVP: The wrong Bell takes the cake here. I can't say it strongly enough, but Tatum Bell was in my Power Rankings, he was getting 80 yards per game, he was finally trusted by fantasy owners. He was. And now, we have the same ugly timeshare thing from the preseason. What did Tatum do wrong? He stunk Sunday. That's it. One game might erase a month of fine games. A Bell did run wild against the weak Colts run D, but it wasn't Tatum, it was Mike, who had become a forgotten player in fantasy. Admit it, you owned him, and when he rushed for 39 yards on 15 carries since Week 1, you gave up. I gave up. And then I watch as Mike Bell runs for 136 yards and two scores (all but one yard in the second half). Mike Shanahan is the devil, again.
LVP: It took awhile, but it might be time to stick a fork in Dominic Rhodes. Joseph Addai carried 17 times for 93 yards, a solid effort all around including five receptions, but Rhodes ran three times for zero yards. Looks like the rookie finally won the job. Of course, the Broncos were allowing nothing and you probably were wise enough to sit Mr. Rhodes down. I'll bet three out of every four Tatum Bell owners had him active. That's 27 yards on 13 carries, or 109 fewer yards than Mike Bell, who had only two more rushes. Nice.
Interesting: You don't need to be told how good Peyton Manning is, but to go 32-of-39 and get 345 yards, score at will in the second half against that defense on the road, it's quite an accomplishment. Manning owns the Broncos. And for those who were tired of playing Reggie Wayne, it was a mistake to sit him. I didn't think he'd do this, but that's 260 yards and four scores in two weeks. OK, phew, that's Sunday's action heading into the big Tony Romo game. We'll sum up his performance and Tom Brady and his pals in Tuesday's blog.

Hache Man · Oct 30, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Monday, October 30, 2006
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</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>Pats must stop Taylor

By Scouts, Inc.





<TABLE class=text11 cellSpacing=4 cellPadding=0 width=552 border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width="100%">Why To Watch
Minnesota returns home after a dominating win over Seattle to host the New England Patriots under the bright lights of Monday night football. Once again, the Patriots have revamped and reloaded their roster without missing a beat.

This Vikings have played great defense all season and finally seem to be clicking offensively, as well as on special teams. Tom Brady is playing with consistency, He will lead his offense against an aggressive Minnesota defense in the noisy Metrodome.

When the Patriots have the ball
Rushing: Rookie Laurence Maroney and Corey Dillon give New England a powerful one-two punch. The NFL's second-best run defense is led in the middle by nose guard Pat Williams and the Kevin Williams, who is playing his best football.
Minnesota plays off opponents' tendencies, as well bringing its athletic, aggressive linebackers on run game dogs to penetrate the line of scrimmage and disrupt ball carriers. The Patriots' offensive line must fire out aggressively, and Maroney and Dillon must continue to run downhill against the speed of Minnesota.

Passing: Tom Brady continues to run his team with a cool confidence, sliding to avoid pocket pressure and always keeping his eyes downfield. He reads coverages well and knows where his receivers are supposed to be. The offensive line had protected its leader extremely well with only five sacks in the first five games, but the speed of the Buffalo defense sacked Brady four more times.
Minnesota will give Brady a variety of defensive looks, at times playing traditional Tampa Cover 2, rushing the four defensive linemen and dropping seven into zone coverage. The Vikings will also utilize their zone dogging linebackers, as well as playing man coverage blitzing safeties or corners. These aggressive pressure packages are designed to confuse and overwhelm protection, but Brady and his offensive line have tremendous experience.

When the Vikings have the ball
Rushing: Fresh off the dominant 175-yard rushing performance in Seattle, Minnesota will once again lean on Chester Taylor, the leading rusher in the NFL. New England runs a base 3-4 defense that defends the run with two-gap technique by the three defensive linemen. This approach allows the inside linebackers to flow freely to the ball carrier, while the outside linebackers play contain and close on the backside, taking away the cutback running lanes. The Patriots are ranked sixth in the NFL against the run, but Minnesota will be patient and stay committed to the run.

Passing: The Vikings struggle in back protection against speed pass rushers and blitzing linebackers, which is exactly what New England brings in passing situations. Look for Minnesota to follow up its pounding run game by calling play action passes, giving the Vikings' offensive line the advantage in protection and making the Patriots' linebackers hesitant in reading the play. Minnesota also proved to be more effective when throwing vertical routes, testing the safeties deep and keeping the defenders honest in covering the entire field. Bootlegs and misdirection waggle passes will put the outside linebackers on an island covering the technique receiver, as well as the quarterback rolling out. Brad Johnson will have to get the ball out quickly, continuing to spread the ball to get some offensive rhythm and control the pace of the game.

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Hache Man · Oct 30, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Monday, October 30, 2006
Take 2: Patriots vs. Vikings

By Scouts, Inc.





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Earlier this week, our scouts filed their advance scouting report on this week's matchup between the Patriots and Vikings. Now they're back with a second look.

Minnesota nose guard Pat Williams and All-Pro tackle Kevin Williams are playing exceptional football, manhandling offensive linemen with power rushes, as well as utilizing quickness to penetrate gaps. These two defensive tackles have made game-changing plays each week.
This stingy group will face a terrific running tandem of rookie Laurence Maroney and veteran Corey Dillon. The key to the Patriots establishing the run game will be whether Dan Koppen can handle Williams, or if he will need his guards to help double the nose, in which case Kevin Williams will be singled up disrupting the run game with his penetration.
? New England utilized some of the salary cap room saved by not signing Deion Branch to sign Koppen to a five-year extension. Can Koppen reward them by getting the Patriots rushing attack against on track against the best run defense in the NFL? Look for the Patriots' offensive game plan to include attacking the perimeter, utilizing combination blocks to seal the defensive line and get to the speedy linebackers.
If New England catches the Vikings in the gaps, Brady will audible to run the ball outside, letting his linemen downblock and sealing the inside gaps long enough for Maroney to get to the edge. Maroney will bring some extra energy Monday night, returning to the Metrodome where he starred the past three years for the University of Minnesota.
? Tom Brady has the special ability to quietly lead his team, mostly by example. One thing Brady does so well is keep his eyes down the field, reading coverage while going through his progressions. He also excels at sliding and stepping up in the pocket, giving himself maximum time and creating throwing lanes.
The Patriots' offensive line had some trouble in protection against Buffalo's speed, giving up four sacks and several quarterback hits. Brady remained calm under duress, continuing to make plays down the field. Minnesota's tough front and aggressive blitzing linebackers will have to land on Brady throughout the game to disrupt him.
? Defensive end Kenechi Udeze facing Matt Light is a matchup to watch. Udeze is quietly having a strong season, improving as a run defender and adding more variety to his pass rush techniques. After losing Erasmus James to an ACL injury, Minnesota started Darrion Scott, switching sides with Udeze. Scott is stouter versus the run and Udeze has a quicker first step in the pass rush.
Minnesota will also play Spencer Johnson outside in running situations and inside for pass rushing purposes, while bringing in rookie Ray Edwards, who has been impressive as a pass rusher.
? The Patriots' defense will need to be stout against the Vikings' zone run game and solid defending the pass, creating pressure by bringing different linebackers and the three down linemen. The Patriots' 3-4 scheme counts on the three defensive linemen playing a two-gap technique, allowing the four athletic linebackers to run to the ball. Missing DE Richard Seymour to injury is good news for Minnesota, as Seymour is the Patriots' best run defender upfront.
New England looks to attack with various pressure packages, but look for the Patriots to get Mike Vrabel singled up on right tackle Marcus Johnson. This matchup strongly favors Vrabel's athleticism, experience and surprising power rush, and should give Johnson trouble in pass protection. New England will continue to aggressively create turnovers, giving Brady more opportunities on a short field.
? Quarterback Brad Johnson has great respect for New England. The four linebackers are all veteran playmakers, starting with the versatile Vrabel and athletic Rosevelt Colvin on the outside. Inside linebacker Tedy Bruschi is the defensive quarterback, making the calls and getting everyone lined up, as well as being quick to diagnose offensive formation tendencies. He is able to anticipate and identify plays as they unfold, often beating backs to the point of attack.
Junior Seau is having fun excelling in his current role, as he can just run and hit. Colvin and Vrabel will bring pressure, and the disciplined Bruschi will always in position. Johnson will work to take advantage of the Seau's aggressive, freelancing nature by looking the linebacker off, and letting tight end Jermaine Wiggins or running back Mewelde Moore work against Seau. Seau is also susceptible to play action passes.
? The game plan Johnson will follow is designed to control the pace of the game by running the ball, limiting the opportunities for Brady and his offense. The Viking's offensive line is playing well, jelling in the run game by using sheer power.
Chester Taylor has been impressive and very durable, pounding the ball behind his huge line. His vision continues to improve, and he is making better reads and cuts each game, even showing the explosive ability to take it the distance. Patience will be the key for Minnesota. Patience to stay committed to the run and for Johnson to take what is open underneath in the passing game, as well as the patience to eliminate penalties and errors.
? Minnesota attacked the Seattle safeties with double moves and more vertical routes, but New England will try to keep the secondary off by playing the run with just the front seven. With the top three Vikings' receivers beat up, including red zone threat Marcus Robinson, out for Monday night's game, look for more crossing routes with the tight ends and possibly play action vertical routes, with the speed of Troy Williamson and newly acquired Bethel Johnson.

Special Teams
Return man Laurence Maroney was the AFC special teams player of the week, following his 74-yard kickoff return. That was not a fluke, as Maroney is averaging nearly 28 yards per return, while Kevin Faulk gets almost 13 yards per punt return. Josh Miller has been punting well, averaging 44.3 yards per punt.
The coverage teams have been winning most field position opportunities, downing 9 of Miller's punts inside the 20-yard line with only four touchbacks. The Patriots certainly miss Adam Vinatieri, as rookie Stephen Gostkowski has missed three very makeable field goals. Overall, New England's special teams have been a contributing factor to the Patriots' success.
If this game comes down to a field goal battle, Minnesota has the edge with veteran Ryan Longwell. Minnesota punter Chris Kluwe has been inconsistent. Kluwe has a booming leg, but has had some horrible punts, putting his team in terrible field position. This inconsistency could show up under the bright lights of Monday night, although he tends to hit the ball well in the dome. Minnesota's coverage teams have been a saving grace, as they have downed a dozen punts inside the 20-yard line. The Vikings' return game got a boost, as the team signed former Patriot Bethel Johnson, who flashed his explosive ability in Seattle in his Vikings' debut. Mewelde Moore doesn't just throw touchdown passes, he is also a dangerous punt return man with the elusiveness and open-field ability to pop big returns.

Matchups
? New England OG Logan Mankins vs. Minnesota DT Kevin Williams
? New England OC Dan Koppen vs. Minnesota NG Pat Williams
? Minnesota RB Chester Taylor vs. New England ILBs Tedy Bruschi and Junior Seau
? Minnesota ROT Marcus Johnson vs. New England OLB Mike Vrabel
? New England TE Ben Watson vs. Minnesota OLB Ben Leber

Scouts' Edge
Minnesota is a team learning how to play in close games, while New England knows how to win close games. The Vikings played a great game in Seattle, with a total team effort in all phases in the victory. Getting the offense in gear to match the outstanding defensive play was huge for Minnesota. New England comes into the noisy confines of the Metrodome as a team that expects to win every game. Thanks to Bill Belichick, every member of the team has an important role in the success of the team. New England has won so many big games and it will defeat an impressive Vikings' team attempting to copy the Patriots' franchise model for winning.

Prediction: Patriots 21, Vikings 17

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Hache Man · Oct 30, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 3 New Articles Added 10/28/06)

Updated: Oct. 30, 2006
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LB ratings: Broncos tops in the NFL

Scouts Inc.





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It wasn't easy to rank the NFL's best linebacker corps. There are at least four teams that could make the case for best unit. The Chicago Bears have the best MLB in Brian Urlacher. The Baltimore Ravens have the most intense LB in Ray Lewis, and a young LB in Bart Scott who has developed into an excellent player. When its unit is intact, it would be tough to find a group as deep and talented as the San Diego Chargers.
But our choice for best unit is the Denver Broncos'.

<TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=420 border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=4>NFL's best linebacking groups</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=15>Rank</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=55>Team</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=350>Comment</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>1. </TD><TD>

</TD><TD>In MLB Al Wilson and OLBs D.J. Williams and Ian Gold, Denver possesses the best starting group in the NFL. What makes them so special? First and foremost, they are all so close. It is almost like they can read each others' minds on the field. Secondly, it is the fastest unit in the NFL. The Broncos might not have the fastest individual players, but there is no other unit that possesses great speed at all three LB spots.
They are all interchangeable, but each has his own special characteristics. Wilson is a solid take-on player at the point of attack. He plays with very good leverage and knows how to strike, shed and get to the ball. Williams is the youngest (24) and most explosive player of this group. Gold is the most versatile of the group. He is Denver's best cover LB and has the feel, quickness and instincts to align in the slot if need be. The last thing that makes them so special is the versatility and matchup problems they create for an offense. These three players are athletic enough to be on the field in any offensive scenario, and that can give offensive coordinators fits when trying to come up with a game plan.
Best player: Wilson
</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>2. </TD><TD>

</TD><TD>Not only does MLB Brian Urlacher bring exceptional talent and ability to this defense, but also great leadership. Urlacher gets his teammates lined up before the snap, then fired up after the snap when flying around making plays. In Urlacher's shadow is outstanding weakside linebacker Lance Briggs. Strong-side linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer does a good job in coverage and is solid versus the run. This trio does an excellent job making plays in coverage, pressuring the quarterback and stopping the run behind a tremendous defensive front.
Best player: Urlacher </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>3. </TD><TD>

</TD><TD>The Ravens' starting linebackers are as good as any threesome in the league. Everyone knows about MLB Ray Lewis, who has shown minimal signs of slowing down. It could be argued that Baltimore's outside LBs are even better. WLB Bart Scott has emerged in a big way this season. He is very active and makes a ton of plays. SLB Adalius Thomas is rare in that he can play defensive end, linebacker or even safety. These three are fast and very aggressive. The depth behind the starters is suspect.
Best player: Lewis </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>4. </TD><TD>

</TD><TD>When healthy and together, this units possesses an excellent combination of size, speed and toughness. The nature of the 3-4 defense is pressure from the OLBs, and Shawne Merriman and Shaun Phillips are excellent in this area. ILBs Donnie Edwards and Randall Godfrey are the veterans of the unit and they complement each other well in the run game. When this unit is intact, a case can be made for it being the best overall LB corps in the NFL.
Best player: Merriman </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>5. </TD><TD>

</TD><TD>The Cowboys are one of only a handful of teams that play a three-down linemen, four-linebacker scheme, and they have two distinctive sets of requirements for their linebackers. The outside linebackers must have good quickness and speed, as well as good size because of their unique dual role. They must be able to hold up against the run and have the athleticism to drop into pass coverage against backs, tight ends and receivers. The inside linebackers have to be physical, with good size and strength, to be able to hold up at the point of attack against larger offensive guards in the run game.
Best player: ROLB Demarcus Ware </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>6. </TD><TD>

</TD><TD>This is a good, but no longer great, starting foursome. Age has begun to take its toll and Joey Porter is among the more overhyped players in the league. That being said, the LBs the Steelers have are excellent fits in their scheme, they know where to be and how to make plays and are a strong, physical group. Pittsburgh has ignored linebackers in the draft the past several years and that could come back to haunt it eventually. OLB James Harrison is a very good backup, but other than him, depth is slim.
Best player: LILB James Farrior </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>7. </TD><TD>

</TD><TD>Seattle's corps is one of the most gifted and talented groups in the NFL. The Seahawks are anchored in the middle by linebacker Lofa Tatupu, who is able to scrape along the line of scrimmage and fill in run lanes with power and dominance. Second-year standout LB LeRoy Hill has excellent speed to cover the tight end and speed to cover sideline to sideline. Thanks to the offseason addition of All-Pro linebacker Julian Peterson, the Seahawks are able to use an abundance of blitz packages and defensive schemes that have Peterson dropping in coverage and providing pass rush from various places.
Best player: Peterson </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>8. </TD><TD>

</TD><TD>The Patriots have one of the most experienced linebacking corps in the NFL. This veteran group, led by Tedy Bruschi (33), Mike Vrabel (31), Junior Seau (37) and Rosevelt Colvin (29), has been very solid through six games. The key to its success is great instincts, work ethic and toughness. A big reason this group has played so well can be attributed to the defensive line. When the trench players perform well it has a ripple effect throughout the entire defense. There are no superstars in this group but Bruschi is the mainstay.
Best player: Bruschi </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>9. </TD><TD>

</TD><TD>The Falcons are an attacking 4-3 defense that loves to hit gaps on the move and disrupt the flow of opponents' running games. Their linebackers are aggressive in the way they attack downhill and have the speed to extend and make plays out on the perimeter. This corps of linebackers is very talented and is led by WLB Keith Brooking. Brooking is a versatile player who makes plays all over the field, while MLB Ed Hartwell is an inside force who can anchor down versus the run. SLB Michael Boley is a developing player who has a tremendous upside to develop into a frontline player in the NFL.
Best player: Brooking </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>10. </TD><TD>

</TD><TD>When healthy, the Jaguars' linebackers are one of the more athletic groups in the league. They are missing their leading tackler Mike Peterson, who was having an All-Pro-type of season before suffering a season-ending pectoral muscle injury Oct. 8. The group as a whole is not very big, but there are big defensive linemen in front of it. These LBs like to flow and attack gaps as they see the ball carrier commit to a hole, and they all have the quickness and speed to meet the ball carrier in the hole. With their youth -- Clint Ingram (23), Daryl Smith (24), Nick Greisen (27) and Peterson (30) -- they should do nothing but get better.
Best player: Peterson </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Best of the rest

11. Dolphins (Zach Thomas)
12. Chiefs (Derrick Johnson)
13. Bills (Takeo Spikes)
14. Vikings (E.J. Henderson)
15. Raiders (Kirk Morrison)
16. Titans (Keith Bulluck)
17. Rams (Will Witherspoon)
18. Buccaneers (Derrick Brooks)
19. Eagles (Jeremiah Trotter)
20. Saints (Scott Fujita)
21. Colts (Cato June)
22. Giants (Antonio Pierce)
23. Panthers (Dan Morgan - IR)
24. Redskins (Marcus Washington)
25. Cardinals (Karlos Dansby)
26. Browns (Andra Davis)
27. Bengals (Brian Simmons)
28. Packers (Nick Barnett)
29. Jets (Jonathan Vilma)
30. Lions (Ernie Sims)
31. 49ers (Derek Smith)
32. Texans (DeMeco Ryans)</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Oct 31, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 9 New Articles Added 10/30/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 9 New Articles Added 10/30/06)

Tuesday, October 31, 2006

<SCRIPT language=javascript src="http://ai059.insightexpressai.com/adServer/adServer.aspx?bannerID=7560"></SCRIPT> Brilliant Brady

By Scott Engel
ESPN.com





<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=762 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top width=552>Entering Monday night's game, it seemed like Tom Brady had been reduced to just a good, but not outstanding, fantasy quarterback. That was understandable, because he had been working with a depleted receiving crew all year long. His best and most accomplished pass-catcher, Deion Branch, is now a Seahawk, and frequent big-play target David Givens has been a nonfactor with Tennessee.
Considering those losses, especially Branch, it might have actually seemed impressive that Brady was able to deliver four consecutive double-digit point outings in ESPN leagues. But on Monday night, facing what many NFL experts deemed a sturdy defense, Brady proved that no matter who his receivers are, he can still carry the offense and deliver terrific fantasy numbers at any time.
Some quarterbacks need quality receivers to help them post fine totals. Then there are the rare passers who are so efficient, they make their receivers look better, and it's the privilege of the pass-catchers to work with them. Brady is certainly the latter. No matter who his receivers are, he's going to get the job done. He'll get the ball there when it has to be, and it's just the job of any New England receiver to catch it. Brady's accuracy and timing go unrivaled by most NFL quarterbacks.
Using 10 different receivers, Brady turned in the best performance of his 2006 season, throwing for 372 yards and four TDs, with just one interception. He tied for the lead among QBs in ESPN leagues this week with 28 points (with Michael Vick), spurring many fantasy teams to come-from-behind victories on Monday night. Owners who started Brady and thought they had long odds of winning their games on Monday night are no doubt rejoicing this morning. Instead of challenging the tough Minnesota run defense, the Patriots came out intending to throw the ball, and couldn't be stopped. Brady got terrific protection and was clearly in tune with his revamped receiving crew, which has come together as a unit.
So where does Brady go from here? Can he keep this up? Is he a must-start player again? While another four-TD performance might not be in the cards for Brady again this season, last night's outing was a clear signal that Brady is capable of the big game at any time. More importantly, he has made the full adjustment to his new receivers by now. So if you don't get amazing performances from Brady every week, you can still look for more than one TD pass in many games. Brady won't always be statistically explosive, but he will at least be dependable. And a QB who is always reliable and sometimes great is one who should always be in your starting lineup. <STYLE> .headshot { visibility: visible; padding: 0px 5px 4px 0px; float: left;} .bottom { font: 10px verdana, san-serif; color: #fff; font-weight: bold; background: #006633; padding: 5px; } </STYLE>BETWEEN THE LINES
We've established that Brady has reasserted himself as one of the better QBs in fantasy football, but that doesn't mean any of his wide receivers will suddenly become regular fantasy starters. As most experienced fantasy players know, Brady spreads the ball among a few or several targets when he is on top of his game. It's quite amazing that New England didn't have a 100-yard receiver on Monday night. But while none of the Patriots' wide receivers had a great individual performance, tight end Benjamin Watson finally had the promising performance many of us had been waiting for. Watson led the Pats in receiving yards and caught a 9-yard TD pass. Many tight ends are statistically erratic, so even if Watson doesn't perform well every week, it's becoming apparent that he is becoming a more integral part of the passing game and should be a regular starter in most leagues. Reche Caldwell caught seven passes for 84 yards and a TD, and he should at least be added as a free agent in larger leagues. Doug Gabriel finished with 83 receiving yards and is a good No. 3 receiver in many leagues, while Chad Jackson scored for the second consecutive game; even though he has caught just one pass in each of the last two games, both have been TD receptions. He's a great add for depth. The Patriots don't have any outstanding wide receivers, but a few of them are definitely useful.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Chester Taylor, RB, Vikings
10 carries, 22 yards, 0 TDs
Coming off the best game of his career, Taylor had his worst game of the season. Like Brady, Brad Johnson tried to come out throwing, but he had much less success. When Taylor did get chances to carry, he was often met by several defenders, and when the Vikings quickly fell behind, they had to mostly abandon the running game. Taylor did catch three passes for 27 yards, but it certainly was a disappointing performance after fantasy leaguers thought Taylor had delivered his breakthrough game at Seattle the week before. Expect Taylor to bounce back quickly, as the Vikings go back to depending on the running game to help them win games. The Vikes tried to surprise New England with their passing game and it didn't work, and in the process, they got away from what they do best offensively. Look for Taylor to put Monday night behind him quickly next Sunday at San Francisco. Taylor is a determined runner with great instincts who battles well for extra yardage, and his great work ethic and often unstoppable motor will pay off again next week. If you don't own Taylor, now is a good time to buy low on him.
</TD><TD width=15><SPACER height="1" width="15" type="block"></TD><TD class=rightcell vAlign=top width=195>TOP LINES
<TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR><TD class=stathead align=middle bgColor=#555555 colSpan=6>Week 8</TD></TR><TR><TD bgColor=#ffffff>

</TD><TD colSpan=5>Rex Grossman, QB, Bears: Quickly came off the bye and put a forgettable Monday night outing behind him</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD>passYDS</TD><TD>passTD</TD><TD>INT</TD><TD>rushYDS</TD><TD>FPTS</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow vAlign=top><TD><NOBR>252</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>3</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>0</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>0</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>22</NOBR></TD></TR><TR><TD bgColor=#ffffff colSpan=5 height=3></TD></TR><TR><TD bgColor=#ffffff>

</TD><TD colSpan=5>Edgerrin James, RB, Cardinals: Totaled 27 touches overall and should continue to shoulder a heavy workload</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD>ATT</TD><TD>rushYDS</TD><TD>recYDS</TD><TD>TD</TD><TD>FPTS</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow vAlign=top><TD><NOBR>24</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>84</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>25</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>1</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>16</NOBR></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR><TD bgColor=#ffffff>

</TD><TD colSpan=5>Darrell Jackson, WR, Seahawks: He has scored in three straight games and remains a must-start despite the QB change</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD>REC</TD><TD>recYDS</TD><TD>TARGET</TD><TD>TD</TD><TD>FPTS</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow vAlign=top><TD><NOBR>3</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>64</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>11</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>1</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>14</NOBR></TD></TR><TR><TD bgColor=#ffffff colSpan=5 height=3></TD></TR><TR><TD bgColor=#ffffff>

</TD><TD colSpan=5>Owen Daniels, TE, Texans: Has been a regular red-zone target and should continue to be a quality starter</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD>REC</TD><TD>recYDS</TD><TD>TARGET</TD><TD>TD</TD><TD>FPTS</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow vAlign=top><TD><NOBR>9</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>99</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>13</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>2</NOBR></TD><TD><NOBR>21</NOBR></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>



Surfin' the Scoreboard

Trainer's Room
? Shaun Alexander (foot) has been ruled out for the "Monday Night Football" game against Oakland (doctors have yet to clear him to play). He has been running but has not started to make cuts. Maurice Morris will start again, and he has been mediocre in Alexander's place.
? Raiders QB Aaron Brooks (pectoral muscle) has been cleared to practice, but Andrew Walter will remain Oakland's starting QB, at least for the game against Seattle. No matter who starts for Oakland, neither QB is worth using in most fantasy leagues. Brooks should get a chance to start again soon, though.
? Reggie Bush (ankle) said his injury was an aggravation of a sprain from the season opener, but he expects to play against Tampa Bay. Bush added that the sprain has continued to linger since the first week. Some owners might think the injury has contributed to Bush's disappointing outings, but a lot of defensive attention has been a primary reason for his lack of overall success. ? Monday Box | Friday Box | Karabell's Blog




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Hache Man · Oct 31, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 9 New Articles Added 10/30/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 9 New Articles Added 10/30/06)

Oct. 31, 2006, 2:53 PM
Carroll: Alexander, Bush and T.Bell

By Will Carroll
ESPN.com





<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
There's nothing scarier than the injury report. A team often thinks it can do nothing about it, that they're falling victim to bad luck, curses, karma, or worse. In the salary-cap era, there's little more important than making sure that the limited money that can be spent ends up on the field rather than on the IR. In baseball, we've got years of data. Football doesn't have the same data base, but it's easier to deal in weeks and base salaries than in baseball system of days and dollars. There and likely in football, the decision to reduce injuries is a simple one of commitment and resources. No team wants more injuries, but too few are actually doing something about it.
Let's get to the injuries:
Monday always was going to be the big test for Shaun Alexander. Unfortunately for the Seahawks, next Monday's going to be big as well. Alexander had more scans and images done on his broken foot and the healing wasn't complete, forcing him to miss one more week. The good news is that his running didn't exacerbate the problem or slow the healing, meaning that "one more week" is a solid timetable. With that said, Alexander still hasn't made cuts or taken contact, so there's plenty of room for a setback. The Seahawks tend to be conservative, so don't read too much into this, but Matt Hasselbeck is now on target to miss four games rather than two, delaying his return from a moderate MCL sprain. Mike Holmgren says that he's targeting Hasselbeck to return for the Nov. 19 game in Week 11, a far cry from the three weeks forecast after the injury. There doesn't appear to be any change and there hasn't been time for a setback, so it appears that it's simply a function of the organization's longstanding conservative approach to rehab. Keep an eye on this one so you're not surprised if the QB comes back more quickly than expected.
My pal Aaron Schatz had a great line about Ben Roethlisberger, comparing him to an old TV set. "You smack him on the side once and the picture clears up. Everything's good. You smack him again and everything goes back to being fuzzy. Roethlisberger looked really fuzzy against the Raiders, making one inexplicable throw after another." Aaron's dead on. While we have no way of knowing what's inside Roethlisberger's head -- and frankly, I don't want to -- the results were apparent. The cause, however, was not. I can't say whether it was Ben's post-concussion fuzziness, the effects of the motorcycle crash, a flawed gameplan, or a solid defense. In a small sample size like one game, there's no certainty to be found in the stat line. Instead, we have to take every possible variable into account and the most simple, most apparent one is that Roethlisberger wasn't ready, despite passing the mental and physical tests presented to him by the medical and coaching staffs. We'll see where the ongoing saga goes this week and how that affects the fantasy numbers of the Steelers offense.
As Roethlisberger tries to play through multiple concussions, Trent Green is still trying to come back from one big one. Green still isn't cleared for contact at deadline, but sources in Kansas City tell me that the next step will be a full practice. Yes, he practiced last week and looked good enough to have some team members questioning whether he would be active for their game, but he didn't take contact. This is a bit of a misnomer; QBs don't take contact in practice. You've seen the red jerseys they wear. So how does a "contact practice" work for a QB? "It doesn't," one NFL executive told me. "The QB might get bumped or accidentally knocked down, but no one's going to take a shot at him." That leaves practice as a poor indicator for how Green will do once people hit him with bad intentions. Simply put, I have no idea how Green will play, but neither does anyone else, including the Chiefs.
The Saints are too much of a feel-good story to get bogged down in injuries. There's some intrigue surrounding the mild sprain of Reggie Bush's ankle, with some thinking that the Ravens targeted the rookie and others thinking that Bush used the injury as a way to get off the field. Bush did dodge tackles, lying down a couple times rather than getting blown up, but this has always seemed the smarter strategy to me. X-rays were negative and Bush says he should be ready for next week, but as we know, players are often the worst judges of their health. I talked to Dr. Philip Kwong of Kerlan-Jobe, one of the top foot and ankle guys in the world. He told me that a mild (Grade 1) sprain takes 1-to-3 weeks to recover fully from, but football players don't wait for full recovery. Expect Bush back on the field for the next game with only slight limitations. His fantasy effect is more apparent in the numbers for Drew Brees and Deuce McAllister anyway, so a small injury shouldn't change anyone's opinion on Bush's output potential. Reports on ESPN.com, quoting the Newark Star-Ledger, have Curtis Martin calling it a season due to chronic knee problems. If you've been reading my columns here or even last season, you won't be surprised by this outcome. Martin was on the PUP list with a bone-on-bone condition much like those that ended the career of Terrell Davis and rendered Stephen Davis into an injury-prone fantasy question mark instead of a feature back. Both players and officials in the report thought that Martin would retire and given the injury, there's little chance that Martin could make any mark on the field. There's no way to regenerate the cartilage short of experimental techniques, at least until cartilage regrowth techniques are legally protected and more viable options become available.

I not only told you that Tatum Bell was a risky play last week, I ate my own dog food, picking up Mike Bell. Mike Bell didn't disappoint, putting up 25 fantasy points after Tatum Bell asked out at halftime. Tatum Bell admitted that the turf toe was more significant than he let on prior to the game. Still, his usage pattern in the second half indicates that Mike Shanahan didn't understand the significance either. With Mike Bell sucking down oxygen on the sideline, Tatum Bell was asked to take carries late in the game and twice, the toe caused problems. On the first carry, the toe didn't allow Tatum to get his foot solidly planted and he slipped. On the second carry, he got a good push off a cut and the pain buckled his knee and he went to the ground. Without a good third back -- Cedric Cobbs was unavailable with an ankle injury -- the Broncos were at the mercy of a bad toe. Tatum remains a risky play, both due to the toe and Shanahan's tendencies to play the hot hand, or, with running backs, is that the hot foot?
The Redskins spent much of their bye week just trying to get healthy. Three of their key offensive contributors were in the training room over their break, hoping to be ready for the next game. Things look good for Santana Moss. There's been no setback with his mildly strained hamstring and if he can make it through Sunday without a problem, we can move on from worrying about his leg. Clinton Portis is a tougher one. We'll need to see him on the practice field and out of the walking boot he had on before we'll know what to expect from him this week. At the very least, Portis owners need to know that Ladell Betts pairs well with Portis. (Reader Paul Swydan doesn't like the term "handcuff" and neither do I, so I'm appropriating the Starbucks phrase here.)
I'm also watching Mark Brunell. Aside from concerns that Joe Gibbs might push the vet aside for Jason Campbell in hopes that the younger, more mobile guy might pull a Tony Romo for the Redskins, Brunell also is dealing with a strained intercostal muscle, which is being called a rib injury and some other bangs and bruises. It's interesting to note that Brunell has lost his biggest skill, his mobility. Few players at any position can lose a primary skill and make the adjustments necessary to remain effective. In fact, I can't think of a good example at the QB position. I think that makes the transition to Campbell inevitable, making him a good bench pickup if you need some depth and have the roster room.
Greg Jennings sat out Sunday's game, as expected. The sprained ankle won't keep him out for next week, assuming no setbacks, and he should go right back to the No. 2 slot in Green Bay. His absence opened things up for David Martin, a TE who was one of few healthy targets for Brett Favre. Wait to see if Martin's jaw is broken before adding him. He had a breakout game in the absence of other options in Green Bay, but the injury and the return of Jennings would reduce his fantasy value for all but the really desperate.
LaMont Jordan continues to be limited by a mid-back injury, rendering him a fantasy trap. The consensus first-round pick has been a sound disappointment all season long, being dragged down by the wretched play of the Raiders, though the team appears to be turning around slightly. Jordan's injury negates any team-level gain and until cleared up, puts him not only on the fantasy bench, but might push him off some rosters altogether. At the midpoint of the season, each fantasy owner should know where their team is and adjust accordingly. Jordan's risk negates his possible second-half resurgence for all but the dominant and the desperate. Those mid-pack teams that are facing five weeks of must-win to make the playoffs can't afford an anchor like Jordan. Back injuries, whether structural or muscular, linger and affect play. The location of this injury seriously affects Jordan's ability to catch passes, a big part of his pre-season value. Bumps and Bruises: Both Chester Taylor and Mewelde Moore left Monday's game with stingers. Neither should be serious, nor is there any pattern to this other than mere coincidence. ? Kick returner Tyson Thompson of the Cowboys is done for the season. He'll need surgery to fixate his broken ankle. The injury was suffered on a hit out of bounds. ? The Chargers know that they have to keep LaDainian Tomlinson fresh and healthy. This week's game shows that they understand that Michael Turner is the key to that plan. ? Montae Reagor won't be back in uniform this week as he recovers from a fractured orbital bone suffered in a game day car crash. ?Since I had so many e-mails about this, let me address the concept of risk. Risk doesn't necessarily mean "don't play this guy." It means that there's a reduced likelihood of a positive result or, conversely, an increased likelihood of a negative result. You can't base decisions just off risk, otherwise no one would go to Vegas or buy a lottery ticket. Risk is just one part of the information you need to make an informed decision about your roster. Damon Huard? Well, if you took his risk and his matchup into consideration, you probably missed out on his big day, but you might not have made the wrong decision. Yes, it's possible to be right and wrong all at once, one of the beauties of fantasy football.
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Hache Man · Oct 31, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 9 New Articles Added 10/30/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 9 New Articles Added 10/30/06)

Still plenty of time in fantasy

posted: Tuesday, October 31, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Fantasy NFL

On Monday, Dec. 5, 2005, the day after the Steelers lost 38-31 to Cincinnati, the general media proclaimed the team done. And why not, with the Colts still unbeaten then, Denver and New England playoff bound, why expect anything from this 7-5 bunch?

A month ago, on Sept. 27, the day after baseball's Cardinals lost their seventh straight game, this time to the Padres, everyone was sticking a fork in them. And why not, with the dominant Mets approaching 100 wins, why expect anything from an 80-76 team, even if they did make the postseason?
Today, I get an e-mail from someone named Tony, whose team entered last night's fantasy football game with a 25-point lead, and Corey Dillon still left to go, while all his opponent had left was Tom Brady. Yeah, "that's all."
Well, you know how that worked out. Brady goes off, and poor Tony lost by one stinkin' point. And now Tony's Yellow Orangutans (hey, I don't come up with these) are 4-4. Tony thinks he's done. You probably agree.
Tony, meet Ben Roethlisberger, circa 2005. And Jeff Weaver a month ago. The Steelers didn't lose again. They finished 11-5, slipped in as a wild-card entry, and slipped out as Super Bowl champs. The Cardinals? Complain about Detroit's fielding all you want, but the 83-78 Cardinals, with a worse record than five teams that missed the playoffs entirely, got hot at the right time and won the World Series.
So, is Tony done at 4-4?
Well, the fantasy regular season in most leagues has five more weeks left. Why can't Tony win all those games? Unlike real life, where Tony LaRussa and Bill Cowher surely motivated their players to better play, we can't do this in fantasy. No matter how many darts you throw at your Edgerrin James poster, it won't make him play better. He might play better, but I'm certain you're not the reason.
The point is, you put your best players out there and hope for the best. Make a trade, sign a Tony Romo, hope your players all of a sudden get hot, whatever it is, real teams make playoff runs, and so do fantasy teams. Most of us have a story about how we just all of a sudden ran off key wins and qualified for the playoffs. And once you're in, anything can happen. I've had 7-6 teams that were scoring 50 points per game make the playoffs, then get hot and didn't lose again, and I'll never forget having Warren Moon in back-to-back seasons, going unbeaten in the regular season, but falling in the playoffs. Works both ways.
Regardless, don't give up on your .500 fantasy teams, or on some of the interesting real .500 (or so) teams. Carolina and Philly aren't done. Baltimore and Atlanta, for example, aren't safe. Your 7-1 fantasy team should be playoff bound, but prepare for the playoffs, it won't necessarily be a cakewalk. And Tony, 4-4 isn't the end.
But you might want to upgrade Corey Dillon anyway, though.
***
Patriots 31, Vikings 7: Did I expect Bill Belichick was going to try to run the ball on a defense that stifles the run? Nope, but did I expect Dillon to get only three carries for five yards? Uh, c'mon! Tom Brady had a plan and executed it early and often for his best day of the season, by far. Interesting stat: Each team ran the ball 15 times.
MVP: Clearly it's Brady, who ends up actually topping the Week 8 performance of Peyton Manning, barely. Brady had thrown two touchdowns in four other games, but with low yardage totals, fantasy owners were complaining. Can't complain now! Brady vaults up to the No. 10 spot for the season. Sit him? Not now. Can't wait for this Sunday night's game vs. Peyton.
LVP: You wouldn't have played Brad Johnson anyway; I mean, the guy is barely owned in fantasy. But Chester Taylor sure is, and coming off his monster game in Seattle, in which he broke off a 95-yarder, this one hurts. Taylor actually gained more yards receiving than rushing. Was it a one-game blip, or a sign of things to come? I think Belichick is smart enough to realize the Vikings can't pass the ball a lick. Be worried if other teams figure it out.
Interesting: If there's one New England wide receiver to be in fantasy lineups, chances are good it was Doug Gabriel. He played well, catching 83 yards worth of passes, but three other receivers (and a tight end) caught touchdown passes. Don't worry, Gabriel clearly remains a top option. Troy Brown and Reche Caldwell aren't major threats to him. Gabriel and Benjamin Watson can coexist. What about the hotshot rookie Chad Jackson? Well, he makes things happen, and his rate of receptions to touchdowns (6-to-3) is unheard of. But he doesn't get thrown at enough to be a safe fantasy starter, or to worry Gabriel owners.
Cowboys 35, Panthers 14: As I wrote on Sunday morning in the blog, I bought into this Tony Romo craze and not only added him in multiple leagues before his first start, but had to play him in one league. I ultimately lost that matchup anyway, but Romo blew away my other options. It was only 15 fantasy points, so let's not call him the next Vick yet, but this week he's in Washington, and there are other nice matchups to come. Oh, and he's got Terrell Owens. Just in case you weren't aware.
MVP: Unlike the situation with the Giants, with Tiki Barber getting all the yards but Brandon Jacobs scoring the touchdowns, a pair of Cowboys running backs are doing touchdown dances. Marion Barber, now popular as a flex option, has scored six times in the last six games, quite an impressive feat considering he's got 52 carries all season. Julius Jones is very underrated, averaging nearly 90 yards rushing per game, and with this touchdown, he's scored three times. No, he doesn't catch the ball (only three receptions all season), but so what! This running back tandem works.
LVP: Can't blame DeShaun Foster, since he found the end zone. Can't blame Steve Smith, though he did very little receiving, because he ran in for a score. What happened to Jake Delhomme? He had thrown seven touchdowns in his previous four games, and fantasy owners were clearly trusting him. Now? He and another trusted QB, Donovan McNabb, are on their bye. And it's a good time for one.
Interesting: With Drew Bledsoe at the helm, Jason Witten was spending his time blocking. In five games, he caught 16 passes, and in no game did he top 51 yards. Now with Romo? That's 152 yards in two weeks, and his first touchdown. You don't think that's significant in a season with the highest-scoring fantasy tight end averaging nine points? OK, coming Wednesday, it's the Power Rankings. There's going to be a change at the top, I can assure that. No Eagles bias here.

Hache Man · Oct 31, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 9 New Articles Added 10/30/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 9 New Articles Added 10/30/06)

All or nothing for Eagles offense

posted: Tuesday, October 31, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Philadelphia Eagles

For the third week in a row the Eagles struggled on offense and have seen their offensive production steadily decrease with each game. Philadelphia still has the top-ranked offense in the NFL and Donovan McNabb is still the top-ranked quarterback in passing yardage, but the offense has been stumbling and the bye could not have come at a better time

Injuries to key starters Brian Westbrook, Donte' Stallworth, Reggie Brown and L.J. Smith have had an effect on the team even though Westbrook and Stallworth are the only two who have been inactive due to injury.

Stallworth

Westbrook

All of these players have been hurt week-in and week-out and have missed substantial practice time, and that has affected McNabb the most. If a starter misses practice time McNabb is forced to throw to backup players and no two receivers run routes exactly the same, meaning it throws off the timing on routes in games.

Dropped passes have plagued the Eagles all year but it seems their receivers have been dropping more balls the last few weeks. McNabb leads the NFL with 27 dropped passes on catchable balls (my own number) this season and only Brett Favre's 20 are even close among other quarterbacks. These drops have come at critical times in games, frustrating McNabb, and it's interesting to note that the four Eagles with the most drops are the four noted above who have missed the most practice time. Is there a correlation between the two, or do they simply have the most drops because most of McNabb's throws are directed at them?
Philadelphia leads the league with 40 explosive passes (20 or more yards), far and away the most in the league, and 10 of those passes have resulted in touchdowns. Peyton Manning and the Colts are way behind with 26 such passes. The Eagles averaged 6.4 explosive passes in their first five games with seven going for touchdowns. During their current three-game losing streak, though, the Eagles are averaging 1.6 explosive passes. That is a big dropoff in production.
Opposing defensive coordinators are seeing all that explosive passing, but they also see these telling stats: Philadelphia is dead last in the NFL in five-minute scoring drives with zero and last in the league in 10-play scoring drives with one (Indianapolis has a league-best seven). The Eagles' offense is fifth in the league with 24 three-and-out drives, explaining why they are next-to-last in the NFL in time of possession and surrounded by losing teams like the Titans, 49ers, Raiders and Lions. Defensive coordinators are saying to themselves, "Do not give up the big play against the Eagles and you will have a chance to slow down this high-powered offense," because Philadelphia cannot go the long field to score and relies too heavily on the big play to score points and move the football.

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Week 9 Power Rankings

posted: Wednesday, November 1, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Fantasy NFL

Stop beating yourself up, there was no way to see that nasty Donovan McNabb game coming. How could you have known? McNabb was averaging 24 fantasy points per game, and then, in a home game against a reeling team that was winless on the road, and without key defensive players and the starting quarterback, Philly doesn't even score a touchdown. Didn't get all that close, either.

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width=200 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width=8><SPACER type="block" width="8" height="1"></TD><TD width=300 bgColor=#ecece4>[FONT=Arial,Helvetica, sans-serif]Welcome to November! Here are the last few blogs of October.
--A Happy Halloween for Brady; a .500 record doesn't make it too late
--Week 8 wrapup: Stars come out
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>So McNabb's stock drops quite a bit, eh? But should it? This isn't college football, where it's far better to have that bad game early on, rather than near Thanksgiving, when it can kill your ranking. McNabb is having a monster season, the best in fantasy football. He had a bad week. He just had it this past week, so it's fresh on your mind.
Other players have had bad weeks, you know. Let's take a look at the current top 10 for season points, and their best and worst weeks:
1. McNabb, 186 points: Best (35, Week 4); Worst (9, Week 8)
2. LaDainian Tomlinson, 158 points: Best (41, Week 8); Worst (6, Week 5)
3. Peyton Manning, 147 points: Best (31, Week 7); Worst (12, Week 5)
4. Larry Johnson, 147 points: Best (41, Week 8); Worst (8, Week 6)
5. Michael Vick, 131 points: Best (28, Week 8); Worst (10, Week 3)
6. Brian Westbrook, 126 points: Best (35, Week 3); Worst (7, Week 6)
7. Marc Bulger, 122 points: Best (27, Week 4); Worst (8, Week 1)
8. Drew Brees, 106 points: Best (23, Week 8); Worst (7, Week 3)
9. Bears D, 106 points: Best (22, Week 1); Worst (6, Week 3)
10. Tom Brady, 105 points: Best (28, Week 8); Worst (8, Week 2)

OK, so that's the season top 10. What does all that mean in relation to McNabb? My point is, take a look at the best weeks for this group of 10. While you're not pleased with what the pair of Eagles did in Week 8, I'd point out that they have no chance when compared to the others.
Week 8, as noted in the Sunday night/Monday morning blog, really was a time for the stars to come out. Half of this top 10 had their best week of the season in Week 8! Manning is on fire, the Bears' D hasn't dropped off at all and Bulger keeps playing well. So basically, every member of the this top 10 is playing well, except for the two Eagles!
And that, my friends, is no reason to panic when it comes to analyzing McNabb or Westbrook, or to overrate the good of the other players. I still think Vick, despite seven touchdown passes in two weeks, is a sell-high option. Do you think he'll keep throwing three or four touchdowns per week, and the Falcons will ignore the run? That's not exactly a prescription for playoff success, is it? I'm not being negative on Vick, I also view McNabb, Westbrook, Brees and Brady as sell-high guys. Also, a defense has never finished in the top 10 in fantasy points; I doubt it occurs this season.
Fantasy football owners are very reactive, as opposed to what we see in other fantasy sports. There's only one game per week, so when you see Brady throw four touchdown passes, you might be tempted to trade the farm to go get him. That's not wise. And while I would try to see what someone might offer for McNabb, don't take less than value. He remains the top player in fantasy football, with only one bad game for the season.
It just happens to have occurred a few days ago.
***
Quick story, then the Power Rankings. A trade went down in one of my leagues last night, and as the commish, I was the first to see it. There is no veto process in this league, nor should there be. Personally, I don't prefer to be in leagues where trades can be overturned. Everyone has an agenda or bias, and ultimately it causes needless argument. Then again, when a lopsided trade occurs, it might not please you, but we're all adults, we should all be responsible for our teams, good or bad.
What really rankles us when we see a bad trade is this: Why couldn't we have robbed the other team?
I know you're thinking this, so admit it. In this league of mine, Steven Jackson essentially got dealt for Tony Romo. That's it. One guy needed a quarterback, badly, and he dumped off his first-rounder for a quarterback with one career start. I see the e-mail and of course, I'm not pleased. But am I angry at the fellow who stole the Rams' running back? Not at all. Congrats to him, I suppose he'll be passing me in the standings real soon. Instead, I'm wondering how I couldn't have been informed Jackson was available for a song!
Might this trade end up working out for both teams? It might not seem possible, but I suppose it is. I've been all over Romo's bandwagon, I even played him in a few leagues in Week 8. I do think he'll be good. But his value isn't on par with the top passers yet. Had Jackson been dealt for Tom Brady I would have winced, and Brady is ranked 10th overall! Jackson isn't!
I know it sounds odd to discuss relative value that way, but Jackson remains worth a lot. And it's not like he just had his McNabb week; Jackson, the No. 14 player in ESPN fantasy leagues, just had his second-best week of the season, with 84 yards rushing and a score, for 19 fantasy points. He's playing well, having scored in three of four games. Really, this trade could have been worse, I suppose. No matter who Jackson was dealt for, sensible or not, it's natural for other owners to wish they were the team getting him. You, the readers, might say this is exactly why there needs to be trade review, but you can never turn it on in Week 9 of a season. Rules are rules.
So what made the Jackson owner, who does have running back depth, move him for a quarterback who still has a lot to prove when he could have received more elsewhere?
It doesn't really matter, does it? All that matters is, I didn't get to do it. And I've gotta keep playing Cadillac. Oh well.
***
McNabb needs to leave the top spot in the Power Rankings, but I'm hardly giving up on him. He ends up behind Peyton Manning because, if I were drafting today, I would select the Colts' quarterback over the Eagles' one. I imagine you would, too. The season leaders are a nice guide, and they can help you in trade talks and evaluating talent, but ultimately it comes down to who is going to score fantasy points moving forward, and even before Week 8, I wrote more than once I didn't expect McNabb to finish the season No. 1 in fantasy. I didn't think Manning would catch him so soon; it's not likely to happen this week, but it should happen in time. Manning trails McNabb by 39 points, and with McNabb on a bye, figure the lead is down to 10 or so points by this time next week. So it's not really out of the ordinary to rank Manning as the top QB.
Of course, he's not No. 1 overall, though.
1. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers (2)
2. Larry Johnson, Chiefs (3)
3. Peyton Manning, Colts (5)
4. Donovan McNabb, Eagles (1)
5. Steven Jackson, Rams (6)
6. Tiki Barber, Giants (9)
7. Brian Westbrook, Eagles (4)
8. Torry Holt, Rams (7)
9. Marc Bulger, Rams (out)
10. Steve Smith, Panthers (10)
11. Michael Vick, Falcons (out)
12. Kevin Jones, Lions (out)

Just missed: Clinton Portis, Redskins (was 8); Rudi Johnson, Bengals; Frank Gore, 49ers; Chester Taylor, Vikings (was 12); Bears D
Dropped out: Tatum Bell, Broncos (was 11); Warrick Dunn, Falcons
Why: I think we're going to see the LT-LJ connection at the top much of the season, which, in retrospect, should never have been doubted. Why Tomlinson over Johnson? No reason. They're close in value, both should be terrific, and worth just about whatever you have to pay (within reason). Then come the top two quarterbacks, and despite the negatives, with Peyton likely to have some trouble this week in a house of horrors (New England) and likely to be holding a clipboard in Week 17, and McNabb having to endure a tougher second-half schedule, I'll rank them ahead of any other running backs.
I still think Barber will find the end zone at some point, and by attrition he moves up a bit. Look, he's healthy, Westbrook is not. Entering the dirty dozen is a Lion, which I know sounds odd, but Jones is ranked fifth among running backs, has had his bye week, catches enough passes to be able to overcome bad days and has been consistent. Vick enters the top 12 as well; I appreciate how well he's been playing.
Portis and Taylor leave the list, though I expect Taylor to find his way back in at some point. Just a tough Monday night against a team intent on stopping him. Of course, if other teams figure out Brad Johnson can't beat 'em, maybe Taylor will have a tough second half. Portis comes off his bye week, but it's likely his stats will suffer some from the quarterback situation in Washington.
Denver's Tatum Bell also leaves the top 12, and the just-missed list, because this turf toe injury is going to cost him playing time. He was terrific heading into Week 8, and now, with Mike Bell taking advantage of the injury, you just know this is again, unfortunately, a time-share. Atlanta's Dunn is done as long as Vick keeps throwing the ball like this. OK, those are your Power Rankings through eight weeks. Let's hear what you think!

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Nov. 1, 2006, 12:30 PM
FFL: Week 9 Lineup Rankings

By Scott Engel
ESPN.com





<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>Quarterbacks
1. Eli Manning vs. HOU
2. Peyton Manning at NE
3. Rex Grossman vs. MIA
4. Michael Vick at DET
5. Marc Bulger vs. KC
6. Tom Brady vs. IND
7. Philip Rivers vs. CLE
8. Brett Favre at BUF
9. Drew Brees at TB
10. Carson Palmer at BAL
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width=200 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width=8><SPACER type="block" width="8" height="1"></TD><TD width=300 bgColor=#ecece4>[FONT=Arial,Helvetica, sans-serif]We rate players based on possible fantasy production each week, taking into account past production as well as matchups. These are not overall player rankings, but rather a list of who you should start for the upcoming week. Top superstars will rarely get moved out of the prime spots, as they should not be benched unless injured. Most players with an unclear injury or starting status for the upcoming week will not be included. All four major offensive positions and defense/special teams units are ranked. [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>11. Jon Kitna vs. ATL
12. Damon Huard at STL
13. Tony Romo at WAS
14. Steve McNair vs. CIN
15. J.P. Losman vs. GB
16. David Garrard vs. TEN
17. Seneca Wallace vs. OAK
18. Bruce Gradkowski vs. NO
19. Alex Smith vs. MIN
20. Brad Johnson at SF
21. Mark Brunell vs. DAL
22. Charlie Frye at SD
23. David Carr at NYG
24. Vince Young at JAC
25. Ben Roethlisberger vs. DEN
26. Jake Plummer at PIT
27. Andrew Walter at SEA
28. Joey Harrington at CHI

Running Backs
1. LaDainian Tomlinson vs. CLE
2. Larry Johnson at STL
3. Tiki Barber vs. HOU
4. Steven Jackson vs. KC
5. Clinton Portis vs. DAL
6. Warrick Dunn at DET
7. Ahman Green at BUF
8. Willie Parker vs. DEN
9. Kevin Jones vs. ATL
10. Thomas Jones vs. MIA
11. Willis McGahee vs. GB
12. Rudi Johnson at BAL
13. Jamal Lewis vs. CIN
14. Frank Gore vs. MIN
15. Chester Taylor at SF
16. Maurice Jones-Drew vs. TEN
17. Deuce McAllister at TB
18. Julius Jones at WAS
19. Corey Dillon vs. IND
20. Fred Taylor vs. TEN
21. Ronnie Brown at CHI
22. Carnell Williams vs. NO
23. Mike Bell at PIT
24. Travis Henry at JAC
25. Wali Lundy at NYG
26. Brandon Jacobs vs. HOU
27. LaMont Jordan at SEA
28. Joseph Addai at NE
29. Reuben Droughns at SD
30. Tatum Bell at PIT
31. Cedric Benson vs. MIA
32. Marion Barber III at WAS
33. Maurice Morris vs. OAK
34. Laurence Maroney vs. IND
35. Reggie Bush at TB
36. Dominic Rhodes at NE
37. Chris Perry at BAL
38. Jerious Norwood at DET
39. LenDale White at JAC
40. Mewelde Moore at SF

Wide Receivers
1. Torry Holt vs. KC
2. Roy Williams vs. ATL
3. Bernard Berrian vs. MIA
4. Terrell Owens at WAS
5. Marques Colston at TB
6. Andre Johnson at NYG
7. Plaxico Burress vs. HOU
8. Reggie Wayne at NE
9. Hines Ward vs. DEN
10. T.J. Houshmandzadeh at BAL
11. Chad Johnson at BAL
12. Marvin Harrison at NE
13. Darrell Jackson vs. OAK
14. Lee Evans vs. GB
15. Santana Moss vs. DAL
16. Donald Driver at BUF
17. Randy Moss at SEA
18. Joey Galloway vs. NO
19. Joe Horn at TB
20. Eddie Kennison at STL
21. Isaac Bruce vs. KC
22. Deion Branch vs. OAK
23. Javon Walker at PIT
24. Michael Jenkins at DET
25. Doug Gabriel vs. IND
26. Amani Toomer vs. HOU
27. Greg Jennings at BUF
28. Chris Chambers at CHI
29. Muhsin Muhammad vs. MIA
30. Chris Henry at BAL
31. Terry Glenn at WAS
32. Eric Parker vs. CLE
33. Reggie Williams vs. TEN
34. Derrick Mason vs. CIN
35. Antonio Bryant vs. MIN
36. Braylon Edwards at SD
37. Mark Clayton vs. CIN
38. Mike Furrey vs. ATL
39. Reche Caldwell vs. IND
40. Chad Jackson vs. IND
41. Troy Williamson at SF
42. Keenan McCardell vs. CLE
43. Ashley Lelie at DET
44. Michael Clayton vs. NO
45. Travis Taylor at SF
46. Matt Jones vs. TEN
47. Troy Brown vs. IND
48. Drew Bennett at JAC
49. Rod Smith at PIT
50. Nate Washington vs. DEN
51. Joe Jurevicius at SD
52. Brandon Lloyd vs. DAL
53. Kevin Curtis vs. KC
54. Samie Parker at STL
55. Eric Moulds at NYG
56. Santonio Holmes vs. DEN
57. Antwaan Randle El vs. DAL
58. Roscoe Parrish vs. GB
59. Marty Booker at CHI
60. Bobby Wade at JAC

Tight Ends
1. Alge Crumpler at DET
2. Jeremy Shockey vs. HOU
3. Antonio Gates vs. CLE
4. Todd Heap vs. CIN
5. Tony Gonzalez at STL
6. Desmond Clark vs. MIA
7. Kellen Winslow at SD
8. Benjamin Watson vs. IND
9. Chris Cooley vs. DAL
10. Jason Witten at WAS
11. Randy McMichael at CHI
12. Owen Daniels at NYG
13. Dallas Clark at NE
14. Jerramy Stevens vs. OAK
15. Heath Miller vs. DEN
16. Alex Smith vs. NO
17. Courtney Anderson at SEA
18. Eric Johnson vs. MIN
19. Jermaine Wiggins at SF
20. George Wrighster vs. TEN
21. Bo Scaife at JAC
22. Joe Klopfenstein vs. KC
23. Ben Troupe at JAC
24. Tony Scheffler at PIT
25. Bryan Fletcher at NE

Defense/Special Teams
1. Chicago vs. MIA
2. N.Y. Giants vs. HOU
3. Baltimore vs. CIN
4. Jacksonville vs. TEN
5. San Diego vs. CLE
6. Minnesota at SF
7. Pittsburgh vs. DEN
8. Denver at PIT
9. Atlanta at DET
10. Cincinnati at BAL
11. New Orleans at TB
12. Dallas at WAS
13. Indianapolis at NE
14. Buffalo vs. GB
15. Washington vs. DAL
16. New England vs. IND
17. Seattle vs. OAK
18. Tampa Bay vs. NO
19. Detroit vs. ATL
20. Green Bay at BUF
21. Oakland at SEA
22. Tennessee at JAC
23. San Francisco vs. MIN
24. Kansas City at STL
25. Cleveland at SD
26. St. Louis vs. KC
27. Miami at CHI
28. Houston at NYG
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Updated: Nov. 1, 2006, 4:47 PM ET
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</TD><TD>

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Rolle, Reed must improve

By KC Joyner
ESPN Insider
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
The Baltimore Ravens' defense is drawing comparisons to the 2000 edition. The comparison is not completely unwarranted.
In 2000, the Ravens gave up 10.3 points per game, compared to 13 this season. They allowed 66 rushing yards per game, with an average of 2.7 yards per carry. This season, the defense is surrendering 60.6 rushing yards per game, and the same yards per carry. Finally, Baltimore averaged 3.2 takeaways per game in 2000, compared to 3.1 in 2006.
However, one area likely to keep this year's unit from equaling the accomplishments of its legendary predecessor is the secondary. Take a look at Baltimore's pass metrics so far (keep in mind that I track throwaway passes in a separate category):
<TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=414 border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=9>Baltimore Pass defense</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Depth</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Att</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Comp</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Yds</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>TD</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>INT</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Pen</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>P-Yds</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>YPA</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Short </TD><TD width=42>138 </TD><TD width=42>90 </TD><TD width=42>683 </TD><TD width=42>1 </TD><TD width=42>2 </TD><TD width=42>4 </TD><TD width=42>20 </TD><TD width=42>5.1 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Medium </TD><TD width=42>37 </TD><TD width=42>16 </TD><TD width=42>314 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>5 </TD><TD width=42>3 </TD><TD width=42>24 </TD><TD width=42>9.1 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Deep </TD><TD width=42>37 </TD><TD width=42>16 </TD><TD width=42>584 </TD><TD width=42>7 </TD><TD width=42>5 </TD><TD width=42>1 </TD><TD width=42>5 </TD><TD width=42>15.9 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Total </TD><TD width=42>212 </TD><TD width=42>122 </TD><TD width=42>1581 </TD><TD width=42>8 </TD><TD width=42>12 </TD><TD width=42>8 </TD><TD width=42>49 </TD><TD width=42>7.7 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
To put the deep pass metrics in perspective, the best secondaries will allow around eight yards per deep pass attempt, while the worst will allow over 15 yards. This means the Ravens' deep pass coverage has been among the worst in the NFL in 2006.
Which player is most responsible for this poor performance? I ran the metrics on Chris McAlister, Samari Rolle and Ed Reed to find out.
Let's start with McAlister. Here are his metrics:
<TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=414 border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=9>Chris McAlister</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Depth</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Att</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Comp</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Yds</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>TD</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>INT</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Pen</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>P-Yds</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>YPA</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Short </TD><TD width=42>18 </TD><TD width=42>11 </TD><TD width=42>96 </TD><TD width=42>1 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>3 </TD><TD width=42>15 </TD><TD width=42>6.2 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Medium </TD><TD width=42>10 </TD><TD width=42>2 </TD><TD width=42>32 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>1 </TD><TD width=42>3 </TD><TD width=42>15 </TD><TD width=42>4.7 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Deep </TD><TD width=42>12 </TD><TD width=42>3 </TD><TD width=42>120 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>2 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>10.0 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Total </TD><TD width=42>40 </TD><TD width=42>16 </TD><TD width=42>248 </TD><TD width=42>1 </TD><TD width=42>3 </TD><TD width=42>6 </TD><TD width=42>30 </TD><TD width=42>7.0 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
McAlister's deep pass yards per attempt is high, but the bulk of his yards and completions came in last week's game at New Orleans. Prior to that game, McAlister had allowed only one deep pass completion in eight attempts, so it could be more of a one-game anomaly in his case.
Next up is Rolle. Here are his metrics:
<TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=414 border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=9>Samari Rolle</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Depth</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Att</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Comp</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Yds</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>TD</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>INT</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Pen</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>P-Yds</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>YPA</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Short </TD><TD width=42>17 </TD><TD width=42>11 </TD><TD width=42>71 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>4.2 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Medium </TD><TD width=42>8 </TD><TD width=42>4 </TD><TD width=42>88 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>1 </TD><TD width=42>14 </TD><TD width=42>12.8 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Deep </TD><TD width=42>7 </TD><TD width=42>5 </TD><TD width=42>193 </TD><TD width=42>3 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>27.6 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Total </TD><TD width=42>32 </TD><TD width=42>20 </TD><TD width=42>352 </TD><TD width=42>3 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>1 </TD><TD width=42>14 </TD><TD width=42>11.4 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Rolle's deep pass metrics show he is the weak link in this defense, and his numbers are not an anomaly. Rolle has allowed at least one deep pass completion in four of the Ravens' last five games. In fact, the only opponents Rolle didn't allow a deep pass completion to were Tampa Bay, Oakland and Denver, three of the worst vertical passing teams in the NFL.
It isn't all Rolle's fault, however, as Reed has had his share of problems as well:
<TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=414 border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=9>Ed Reed</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Depth</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Att</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Comp</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Yds</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>TD</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>INT</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>Pen</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>P-Yds</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=42>YPA</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Short </TD><TD width=42>1 </TD><TD width=42>1 </TD><TD width=42>7 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>7.0 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Medium </TD><TD width=42>2 </TD><TD width=42>1 </TD><TD width=42>16 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>8.0 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Deep </TD><TD width=42>10 </TD><TD width=42>5 </TD><TD width=42>199 </TD><TD width=42>3 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>19.9 </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width=42>Total </TD><TD width=42>13 </TD><TD width=42>7 </TD><TD width=42>222 </TD><TD width=42>3 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>0 </TD><TD width=42>17.1 </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Two seasons ago, Reed won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, despite having some of the worst deep pass coverage metrics in the NFL. This was due in large part to his being aggressive in trying to get interceptions. He curtailed his risk-taking in 2005 and had league-leading coverage metrics, but didn't get as much press for making the big plays. This year, Reed seems to be going for the big plays again and it is showing up in his terrible deep coverage metrics.
These coverage issues are very likely going to cost the Ravens this Sunday against Cincinnati. The Bengals have had serious offensive line issues this season, but that hasn't prevented Carson Palmer from posting impressive numbers. Palmer didn't have trouble against Baltimore last season either, as he completed 41 of 56 attempts for 550 yards, with five touchdowns and one interception in their two matchups. Rolle and Reed have shown the ability to play better, and if they don't step up their play against the Bengals on Sunday, all of the comparisons to the Ravens' 2000 defense will be put to rest.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Wednesday, November 1, 2006
<TABLE style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 7px" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top>

</TD><TD vAlign=top>

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>Scouting Matchups: Week 9

By Scouts, Inc.




<TABLE class=text11 cellSpacing=4 cellPadding=0 width=552 border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width="100%"><TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width=162 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff" colSpan=2>

</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD width=3> </TD><TD width=156>Only Insiders get access to all of Scouts Inc.'s, in-depth NFL coverage, as well as insight from ESPN's stable of football analysts.
? Take the Insider tour
? Become an Insider
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>NFL advance scouts watch games in person, studying everything from personnel packages to play-calling signals, and on film, looking at individual players, as well as a team's various schemes and recent trends. The goal? Provide their coaching staff with the best possible means of preparation during the week of practice. Scouts Inc. does the same thing, compiling the best advance scouting reports available and delivering them to you by Tuesday afternoon on ESPN.com Insider. On Friday, after breaking down more game film, Scouts Inc. files an updated report with a deeper look at each game, spotlighting key individual matchups and trends and predicting the final score.

<TABLE class=tablehead cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3><TBODY><TR class=stathead><TD width=100>Matchup</TD><TD>Scouting</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD colSpan=2>SUNDAY NOVEMBER 5, 2006</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Kansas City
at
St. Louis
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Chiefs at Rams
Intra-state rivalries are always exciting and fun to watch. The Chiefs have been playing very well despite the loss of QB Trent Green in Week 1. This game features two outstanding runners in the Rams' Steven Jackson and the Chiefs' Larry Johnson. Both are very strong runners and have good hands to make catches out of the backfield. Both teams have been pleasant surprises in their respective divisions, as this matchup looks to create a defensive chess match between two very good defenses that have outstanding secondaries.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Houston
at
NY Giants
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Texans at Giants
The Texans will be fighting to get out of the cellar of the AFC South, while the Giants will be fighting to maintain their one-game lead over the Cowboys in the NFC East. Houston suffered a setback in Week 8, losing to the Titans despite outgaining Tennessee 427 yards to 197. Five turnovers turned out to be the Texans' downfall. The Giants, meanwhile, are on a four-game winning streak since losing to the Seahawks in late September.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

New Orleans
at
Tampa Bay
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Saints at Buccaneers
Saints head coach Sean Payton must get his team refocused after a disappointing performance against the Ravens last week. QB Drew Brees must find his rhythm in the short, controlled passing attack to set up the running game. Buccaneers defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin will attack the Saints' rushing game and force the Saints into a one-dimensional team through the air.

Bucs head coach Jon Gruden must find a way to jumpstart his offense against a Saints defense that can be exploited. Saints defensive coordinator Gary Gibbs will load up the box against the run and attack QB Bruce Gradkowski with his multiple zone pressure schemes in passing situations. If the Saints are going to make a run at the NFC South title, they must win this game on road.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Dallas
at
Washington
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Cowboys at Redskins
Tony Romo will be looking to prove his first start at Carolina was not a fluke. Romo looked good and should continue to make improvements over the last half of the season. The Cowboys need a win at Washington to keep pace with the Giants.

The Redskins are in a big hole and do not have much of a chance at the playoffs this year, but can play the part of the spoiler because misery loves company. Will Joe Gibbs take a page out of Bill Parcells' game plan and finally make a change at quarterback from Mark Brunell to Jason Campbell. This should be a hard-hitting NFC East matchup between two division rivals.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Tennessee
at
Jacksonville
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Titans at Jaguars
The Titans, riding on a two-game winning streak, are hoping to get out of the AFC South cellar that they occupy along with the Houston Texans. At the same time the Jaguars are hoping to get back in the middle of the playoff race as a wild-card team.

Jacksonville re-located its dominating defense against the Eagles in Week 8, holding the NFL's top offense to 227 total yards. Meanwhile, the Titans gave up a lot of yards (427) to the Texans while creating five turnovers to come away with a 28-22 win.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Cincinnati
at
Baltimore
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Bengals at Ravens
This is the first matchup between the two top teams in the AFC North and obviously will have distinct playoff implications. The Baltimore crowd will be extremely loud and the environment will be nearly playoff-caliber. The Ravens changed their play-caller and looked like a new offense in New Orleans last week as they dominated in a difficult environment. The offense showed balance, confidence and some big-play ability, while the defense was outstanding and created points.

Cincinnati hosted the Falcons in what became a dogfight, but the Bengals just couldn't keep up with Michael Vick. This should be a close-fought grudge match between division rivals. Both teams have been solid overall on special teams and the kicking game could be a determining factor. Don't be surprised to see the fate of the game fall to the foot of one of these excellent kickers. The Bengals need this game to keep pace.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Green Bay
at
Buffalo
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Packers at Bills
The Packers are coming off their second consecutive win. The Bills are trying to find answers after their bye week to what once was a promising early part of the season. These two teams need to make a stand in Week 9 or the season will slip away quickly.

The Packers have found a productive running game and quarterback Brett Favre is taking care of the ball. Both teams are desperate for a victory. Look for Buffalo to play tough at home and with an extra week to prepare.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Miami
at
Chicago
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Dolphins at Bears
The Chicago Bears are an elite NFC team that plays offensive-minded defense, creating turnovers and attempting to score points even on defense. This Bears team is exciting in all phases. They have big-play ability in the return game with the dynamic rookie Devin Hester, big-play ability on defense and big-play ability on offense with an explosive group of playmakers led by Rex Grossman. Chicago is facing a Miami team that still plays excellent defense but has struggled offensively.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Atlanta
at
Detroit
Sun 1:00 PM ET</TD><TD>Falcons at Lions
Michael Vick. After starting the season relying on a dominating running attack, Vick has enjoyed two outstanding games in a row throwing the ball, with seven touchdown passes. The Falcons now bring a balanced attack into Ford Field. Detroit returns a little healthier, especially in the offensive line, which has been in shambles all season.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Minnesota
at
San Francisco
Sun 4:05 PM ET</TD><TD>Vikings at 49ers
The Vikings self-destructed in Week 8 and need to elevate their play this week against a struggling 49ers team. The Vikings are a better team offensively than what they showed on Monday night, and must have better play from quarterback Brad Johnson. The 49ers are a team looking to rebuild, but they have good, young players on offense in quarterback Alex Smith and running back Frank Gore. Smith has vastly improved in his second year while Gore has been getting better week after week.

The Vikings are a well-rounded team and have run the ball well with the additions of guard Steve Hutchinson and running back Chester Taylor. These players need help to give Minnesota's offense balance. This matchup has a lot of offensive firepower and could be a high-scoring affair.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Denver
at
Pittsburgh
Sun 4:15 PM ET</TD><TD>Broncos at Steelers
This is a rematch of last year's AFC Championship Game and features two of the longest tenured and most successful head coaches in the NFL. Pittsburgh was embarrassed in an ugly game in Oakland last week. Denver is coming off a last-minute loss to the Colts, but its offense finally put up big points. Prior to Week 8, Denver's defense feasted on poor offenses. The Steelers continue to self destruct week after week.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Cleveland
at
San Diego
Sun 4:15 PM ET</TD><TD>Browns at Chargers
The Chargers bounced back from a disappointing loss and once again proved they are one of the power teams to contend with in the AFC. LaDainian Tomlinson is coming off his best game of the season and faces a Browns defense that has had issues this season stopping the run.

Cleveland won its first game with new offensive coordinator Jeff Davidson taking over the play-calling. Davidson was much more balanced with his play-calling. Because he's also the team's offensive line coach, you could see a greater commitment to run this week.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Indianapolis
at
New England
Sun 8:15 PM ET</TD><TD>Colts at Patriots
This is a huge contest between two perennial AFC powers. The Colts have proven they can win against top opponents on the road, as they took care of the Denver Broncos last week.
? Complete advance scouting report

</TD></TR><TR class=colhead><TD colSpan=2>MONDAY NOVEMBER 6, 2006</TD></TR><TR class=oddrow vAlign=top><TD align=middle>

Oakland
at
Seattle
Mon 8:30 PM ET</TD><TD>Raiders at Seahawks
These teams are former AFC West rivals and there used to be a lot of bad blood between them. This game should mark the return of Seattle RB Shaun Alexander.

Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck will not return for this game, but his backup Seneca Wallace did some good things the previous week, making some plays with both his feet and his arm. Oakland has not received much positive attention, but their defense is one of the best kept secrets in the NFL, as they have a young, hungry group of players who can attack and force turnovers.
? Complete advance scouting report
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Updated: Nov. 1, 2006, 8:37 AM ET
Five reasons Patriots will beat Colts

By Jeremy Green
Scouts Inc.
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>New England (6-1) plays host to Indianapolis (7-0) in one of the season's most anticipated games. Jeremy Green of Scouts Inc. likes the Patriots. Here's why:

1. BILL BELICHICK FACTOR: He will preach this week that the only way to beat the Colts will be to be solid in all three phases. Belichick is the best head coach in the NFL. He is best at preparing his team during the week and making in-game adjustments. Even if the Colts find some things that are working well offensively early in the game, Belichick will make proper adjustments. Keep in mind that despite the Colts winning at New England last season, the Patriots and Belichick have won eight of the past 10.

2. PATRIOTS' DEFENSE CAUSES CONFUSION: The Patriots' defense gives everyone trouble, especially Peyton Manning. The Patriots can mix 3-4 and 4-3 schemes. They will blitz some and at times will drop nine into coverage. That is all part of the defensive mind games Belichick plays. The Patriots will run stunts up front and at other times use a straight rush. The problem is, they will do all the things I talked about in different down-and-distance situations. The Colts' offense is all about reading tendencies, but the Patriots' defense is impossible to read.

3. COLTS' DEFENSE CONFUSED? You can bet that Monday night every player and coach on the Indianapolis staff watched New England's offense dismantle Minnesota's defense with the spread attack. The Colts can't prepare for everything the Patriots will throw at them. Indianapolis has the worst run defense in the NFL, so it must think run first and prepare for the two-headed monster of RBs Corey Dillon and Laurence Maroney. The Patriots' organization is like the CIA -- nothing ever leaks out -- so who knows what the Patriots will have up their sleeves? Could the Patriots throw the change-up and come out in the spread offense to confuse the Colts?

4. PATRIOTS WON'T GO FOR ROPE-A-DOPE: The Patriots have faced Manning enough that they will not fall for the "rope-a-dope" -- all that shotgun movement with Manning acting like he is calling audibles at the line of scrimmage to confuse the defense. The Patriots are too smart to fall for that. Manning will be at the line acting like he is changing plays and at times he might be, but don't expect the Patriots to shift their defense once it is set and get caught off guard by the quick snap.
5. TWO BACKS ARE BETTER THAN ONE: My last point might be the most important. You can't beat great teams on the road when you can't stop the run. The Colts have been gashed by just about everyone they have faced. When the game is on the line late and the Colts need to get the ball back, will they be able to stop Dillon and Maroney? I don't think they will, and that's why I like the Patriots to get the job done at home.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Updated: November 1, 2006, 2:37 PM ET
QB rankings: Week 8

By Gary Horton
Scouts Inc.





<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>So who's the best QB in the NFL right now? Who's the worst? And who's in between? Scouts Inc.'s Gary Horton ranks all the QBs 1-32.
<TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=420 border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=4>QB rankings</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=50>Rank (LW)</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=80>Player</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=30>Team</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" width=240>Comment</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>1.(1) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Peyton Manning[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Colts </TD><TD>Another spectacular day in last-second win at Denver over good Broncos defense. He threw for 345 yards and three TDs for a 129.2 QB rating. Made great decisions and "took what defense gave them." </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>2.(2) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Tom Brady[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Patriots </TD><TD>Absolutely shredded a good Vikings defense, throwing for 372 yds and four TDs, while running a lot of plays out of the no-huddle scheme . He completed passes to 10 receivers and was a master at identifying matchups and soft spots in zones. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>3.(12) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Michael Vick[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Falcons </TD><TD>He had another great day -- 291 yards and three TDs -- in a big win at Cincinnati, and he looks totally comfortable in this offense, which features a lot of bootlegs and rollouts. He just plays catch with his receivers. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>4.(3) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Donovan McNabb[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Eagles </TD><TD>On a very windy day at home, it was impossible to throw deep and McNabb averaged only 4.7 yds per pass and threw for just 161 yards and 0 TDs. The magic seems to be fading! </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>5.(6) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Rex Grossman[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Bears </TD><TD>Conservative passing game led to a blowout win over the 49ers. He used more safe short to intermediate passes and fewer deep gambles, posted a great 137.4 QB rating, and made great decisions. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>6.(7) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Philip Rivers[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Chargers </TD><TD>With a dominating LaDainian Tomlinson running wild, Rivers didn't have a lot of pressure, but he still responded with a solid, mistake-free day throwing to TE Antonio Gates and L.T. on short to intermediate passes. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>7.(4) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Carson Palmer[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Bengals </TD><TD>His numbers were good in a tough home loss to Atlanta (266 yards and two TDs) and he threw a couple of beautiful passes, but something is missing. He's getting hit too much, and he doesn't look comfortable </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>8.(11) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Eli Manning[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Giants </TD><TD>He didn't have flashy stats in a horribly windy day at home, but whenever he needed a big play, he simply threw a jump ball to WR Plaxico Burress in a win over Tampa Bay. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>9.(9) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Brett Favre[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Packers </TD><TD>He attempted only 25 passes because of an excellent run game in win over Arizona, but he was effective and didn't make mistakes. He is showing a lot of patience as Packers start to play better. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>10.(13) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Marc Bulger[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Rams </TD><TD>In a run-heavy offensive game plan, Bulger threw for 327 yards and two TDs without any major mistakes, but it wasn't enough versus a huge rushing day by Chiefs' RB Larry Johnson. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>11.(5) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=65>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=65>[SIZE=-2]Drew Brees[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Saints </TD><TD>He finally played a poor game. Although the stats say he threw for 383 yards and three TDs, he also had three interceptions and was sacked twice in a loss to a swarming Ravens defense. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>12.(18) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Jake Delhomme[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Panthers </TD><TD>In a tough loss at home to Dallas, Delhomme never really got anything going with an offense that didn't have the ball enough (the time of possession favored Dallas by more than 16 minutes) and he couldn't generate big plays. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>13.(20) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Steve McNair[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Ravens </TD><TD>He had modest passing numbers in a win over New Orleans (159 yards and two TDs), but a strong run game led to good play-action opportunities. He also made plays with his feet and played a mistake-free game. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>14.(17) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Jake Plummer[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Broncos </TD><TD>He wasn't bad in a loss to the Colts at home in an offense that featured a run-heavy scheme. He's not making a lot of mistakes right now, but he's also not making a lot of big plays. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>15.(10) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Chad Pennington[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Jets </TD><TD>Bad day for Pennington in loss at Cleveland. He threw for only 108 yards and 0 TDs and had two interceptions. It was a nonexplosive passing game that averaged only 3.9 yards per pass. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>16.(22) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Tony Romo[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Cowboys </TD><TD>A great run game versus a good Carolina defense took the pressure off and allowed him to manage the game. He made good decisions, used a safe passing game and bought time with his feet. An excellent first game as a starter. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>17.(16) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Ben Roethlisberger[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Steelers </TD><TD>Although he threw for 301 yards and a TD in a loss at Oakland, he never looked comfortable and he made bad decisions, throwing four costly interceptions and getting sacked five times. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>18.(15) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Brad Johnson[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Vikings </TD><TD>A poor night versus a swarming Patriots defense that gave him a lot of different looks. His lack of mobility was a real problem, and he forced too many passes into coverage, throwing an uncharacteristic three interceptions. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>19.(19) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Damon Huard[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Chiefs </TD><TD>He didn't need to put up big numbers in a win over Seattle because of a dominating run game, but he did throw for 312 yards and one TD in a mistake-free game. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>20.(23) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Mark Brunell[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Redskins </TD><TD>Brunell is coming off a bye week and possibly close to being replaced by Jason Campbell as season unravels. His production is up and down, and the sophisticated play book is nonexistent. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>21.(14) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]David Carr[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Texans </TD><TD>Was actually benched in the second half in a loss to Tennessee for turning the ball over three times and not looking like the QB who came into the game completing 70 percent of his passes. But he will start next week. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>22.(NR) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]David Garrard[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Jaguars </TD><TD>QB controversy in Jacksonville? On a windy day in Philadelphia, he threw for only 87 yards on 17 attempts, but he managed the game well and the Jags won. Who will start this week? </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>23.(28) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Joey Harrington[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Dolphins </TD><TD>The bye week could not come soon enough for him. We see flashes of good play and some production, but we also see mistakes and turnovers. He must get better. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>24.(26) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Matt Leinart[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Cardinals </TD><TD>He is 0-4 as a starter after loss at Green Bay and had mediocre stats vs. a porous Packers secondary. He is struggling to find open receivers vs. man-to-man coverage, and the offensive line gives him no protection. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>25.(25) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Bruce Gradkowski[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Buccaneers </TD><TD>He's not getting better each week, but in the loss to the Giants, it wasn't all his fault. His receivers had several drops. However, 2-for-16 on third-down conversions won't get it done. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>26.(NR) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Seneca Wallace[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Seahawks </TD><TD>He wasn't bad in the Seahawks' loss at Kansas City, but he just didn't get a lot of opportunities. His offense had the ball less than 18 minutes, but he did throw three TDs, as well as two interceptions. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>27.(21) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Alex Smith[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>49ers </TD><TD>He is still a work in progress and -- in a blowout loss in Chicago -- he struggled, throwing one interception, losing two fumbles and getting sacked twice. He never had a chance versus the aggressive Bears defense. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>28.(27) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Jon Kitna[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Lions </TD><TD>After a bye week, it's back to the drawing board, but at least he has found a go-to WR, Roy Williams. Still, this Mike Martz offense is not clicking yet. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>29.(29) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]J.P. Losman[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Bills </TD><TD>Spent his bye week going back to the film room and working on the flaws and mistakes that plagued him in the first seven weeks. He must cut down on turnovers in second half of the season. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>30.(30) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Vince Young[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Titans </TD><TD>Best passer rating so far in win over Houston (87.4), but threw only 15 times in a very conservative game plan. He is still a big threat with his feet, but passing game is anemic. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>31.(31) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Charlie Frye[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Browns </TD><TD>Different offensive coordinator led to different play calling with better results. Short and safer passes to Kellen Winslow and Braylon Edwards behind stronger run game lead to better efficiency and a win over Jets. </TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD>32.(32) </TD><TD><TABLE cellSpacing=0 align=right border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>

</TD></TR><TR><TD width=2></TD><TD width=80>[SIZE=-2]Andrew Walter[/SIZE]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD><TD>Raiders </TD><TD>Embarrassing stats, no pass protection, drops by receivers, bad throws into double coverage, and 1-for-11 on third down -- yet he wins the game, thanks to the defense. </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Rookies making a difference

posted: Wednesday, November 1, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers

There are some intriguing first year players that are having an impact in the NFC South.

Atlanta Falcons

Norwood

The Atlanta Falcons are loaded with explosive playmakers on the offensive side of the ball. However, third-round pick Jerious Norwood is starting to make his presence felt playing behind Warrick Dunn.

Norwood is a premier long-ball threat anytime he touches the ball. He is a good instinctive runner who can get downhill and press the hole with amazing speed, quickness and initial burst. He can turn a short run into a long explosive play. He is averaging 6.8 yards per carry and should continue to get more involved in the Falcons' offensive game plans as we move into the second half of the season.
Carolina Panthers
In my opinion, one of the toughest positions to play in the NFL is out on the edge as a corner. Great corners have to be confident and cocky and have the resiliency to bounce back form a bad play. Second-round pick Richard Marshall looks to be a solid pickup with a tremendous upside to develop into a frontline player in the NFL.
Marshall has contributed mainly in the Panthers' sub defensive packages on the outside as the third corner. Two traits that have jumped out at me along with his coverage ability have been his physical demeanor and tackling. Look for Marshall to see more time in the second half of the season with Ken Lucas dealing with an assortment of injuries. New Orleans Saints

Colston

We all know about the impact Reggie Bush has had on the Saints offense but how can we not notice the production and playmaking skills of seventh round pick Marques Colston?

I wrote about Colston in the preseason, mentioning the impact he had made on the Saints' coaching staff. Well, it continues today, and he has positioned himself for possible rookie of the year honors at the end of the season. He currently has a rookie-best 577 receiving yards and six touchdown receptions with a 17.5-yard average per catch.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers are building for the future, and they look to have solidified the right side of their offensive line with rookies Davin Joseph and Jeremy Trueblood. And, let's not forget about rookie sixth-round pick Bruce Gradkowski, who might be the team's quarterback of the future. Even though the Buccaneers will continue to go through growing pains on the right side, both Joseph and Trueblood look to be the answers. Trueblood is a massive tackle who is technically sound, while Joseph has shown the ability to play with leverage and body control in the trenches. Both players have a lot of room to improve and the upside to develop into frontline NFL starters.

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

NFC North could learn from Patriots

posted: Wednesday, November 1, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers

After witnessing their dismantling of the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night, let's look at how the New England Patriots' philosophy was successfully implemented and why the Patriots are a modern-era dynasty.

Why should that matter to fans of the NFC North? Because New England plays all four teams from the division this season -- including an upcoming three-game stretch against Green Bay, Chicago and Detroit -- and the Patriots could serve as a nice blueprint for rebuilding teams like the Vikings, Packers and Lions.
It all starts off the field, where some NFC North teams have struggled in recent seasons. Patriots Executive Vice President Scott Pioli has worked closely with coach Bill Belichick to create a team-first philosophy and match it to their on-field personnel. Individual talent is always in the limelight in the NFL, but in New England, intelligent, experienced personnel accept the team-oriented environment.
Pioli and his staff have been critical to the team's success by constantly re-stocking Belichick's depth charts with players who fit this successful philosophy, but who also have the talent and intelligence to execute the offensive and defensive systems Belichick is constantly adapting and adjusting.
On the field, the team practices in an atmosphere energized by the expectation of success. Each player has a role that contributes to that success, and credit owner Robert Kraft for keeping Pioli with the organization to continue finding those players. He has helped turn New England into the model franchise for the modern era, one the rebuilding teams in the NFC North could learn from.
How does all that translate to game day? What happened in Minnesota was an example of Belichick's game-planning wizardry and how that unselfish preparation led to outstanding execution and another victory.
Against the Vikings, Belichick saw a dominant run defense but a lack of depth in the secondary, and he exploited that weakness with a variety of shotgun spread formations with receivers-only personnel groups that forced Minnesota to play rookies Cedric Griffin and Greg Blue in the defensive backfield. Quarterback Tom Brady was outstanding in identifying the Vikings' linebacker dogs and safety blitzes, adjusting protections against a very strong defensive line and getting the ball quickly to receivers running hot routes.
New England didn't force the run against a powerful defensive front that leads the NFL in run defense, handing the ball off only seven times in the first half, but Brady also was exceptional in identifying mismatches, from Troy Brown on one of those rookies or athletic tight end Ben Watson getting a step on Minnesota's linebackers. The Patriots spread the Vikings out with disciplined spacing routes that found the soft spots in zone coverage and favorable matchups in man coverage.
Defensively, the Patriots' veteran linebackers were impressive in quickly diagnosing offensive plays, identifying, reading, anticipating and reacting with a speed and aggressiveness that exudes confidence. That is a product of great preparation.
The base 3-4 defense was facing a Minnesota offense that had established a strong zone running game and was coming off its most productive game of the season in a 31-13 win at Seattle. The Patriots played it straight, two-gapping with the three linemen while keeping the linebackers off the ball to read and attack creases at the line of scrimmage.
To contain the Vikings' penchant for bootleg and movement passes, the Patriots sent their defensive ends up the field in a high contain rush or aligned the outside linebackers exceptionally wide to bring a speed rush and get the offensive tackles turned quickly. That opened up rush lanes for pressure on QB Brad Johnson and allowed other defenders to drop into various zone coverages.
This game plan was effective in creating confusion, breaking down protections and harassing the normally reliable Johnson into hurried, poor decisions that resulted in turnovers. New England not only showed the rest of the NFC North how to attack the Vikings, but it also gave the rebuilding teams in the division a great example of how implementing a team-first philosophy and finding talented personnel to match it can build a winning franchise.

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

No touchdowns for Tiki

posted: Wednesday, November 1, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: New York Giants

Tiki Barber, the NFL's leading rusher with 715 yards, has been shut out when it comes to scoring touchdowns this season. Barber does all the hard work by running the ball down the field into the opponent's red zone, only to see head coach Tom Coughlin bring in Brandon Jacobs with the goal-line package to carry the ball into the end zone. Coughlin must be upset at all the talk of Barber's retirement.
Barber should get a chance to score this week, though, as the Giants play the lowly Texans, who have the 26th-ranked run defense and are giving up 134.6 yards a game. The Texans also have allowed more than 100 yards rushing in six out of seven games this season.

Giants sign veteran Linebacker Claiborne
The Giants, who are thin at linebacker due to injuries to ROLB Brandon Short and LOLB Carlos Emmons, signed former first-round pick Chris Claiborne to add depth. Claiborne is versatile in that he can play all three linebacker positions, but he is more suitable at either the middle or weak side. The Giants have not announced where they intend to play Claiborne but we should expect him to line up behind Short on the weak side. Claiborne has lost a step over the years due to age and nagging injuries, and the Giants need to monitor his weight as he has a tendency to put on the pounds, which affects his mobility. They will need to keep Claiborne at or below 255 pounds, as that is his effective playing weight. He can be very productive during a game, but for every big play he makes, he gives up two or three. Claiborne has never really played up to expectations that come with being the ninth pick of the draft (1999) by the Detroit Lions.

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

LB Thomas is complete package

posted: Wednesday, November 1, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns

Who is the best linebacker in the AFC North? Yes, that's right, that superstar in Baltimore. Not Ray Lewis. I am talking about Adalius Thomas.

Thomas

The word "freak" is thrown around too much when describing great athletes in the football world, but Thomas deserves that billing. Thomas, along with the Seahawks' Julian Peterson, is the most versatile linebacker in the NFL. He can thrive as a defensive end in a four-man front, any spot on the second level or even as a safety. He is as outstanding as an upfield pass rusher as he is against the run or in coverage.

As a pass rusher, he is powerful enough to bull rush an offensive tackle and quick enough to explode off the snap and run around offensive linemen. He closes in on the quarterback with an outstanding burst and finishes with passion, aggression and power.
As a run defender, he reads and diagnoses quickly. He takes few false steps and is decisive. He has long arms and the strength to shed blockers abruptly. In runs away from him, Thomas can chase down ball carriers and is a big, strong, wrap-up tackler with a nasty streak.
In coverage, Thomas can run with just about any tight end, isn't a liability against running backs out of the backfield and can also challenge wide receivers in man coverage. He is also a fine zone player who opens his hips smoothly and covers a very large area for such a big man. What is amazing is that he is only getting better.

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Kicking game can make difference

posted: Wednesday, November 1, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots, New York Jets, Miami Dolphins

The kicking game is the least glamorous part of football, but it makes up approximately a third of the total number of plays. Many of us (fans, scouts, writers and even players) don't study or give the kicking game its due respect. The coaches of any team at any level of football (especially the NFL), though, give the kicking game a great deal of time, effort and game-planning. When teams appear to be close on paper, many fans and oddsmakers don't look deep enough into the third phase of a football contest. Let's take a closer look at the AFC East kicking game.

There are several phases within the kicking game to be evaluated, so it's tough to rank the best but I would have to give the nod to the Buffalo Bills as having the top overall special teams in the division.
Buffalo Bills
Punter Brian Moorman has a strong leg and hangs the ball high for a 39.6-yard net average and has had only one touchback compared with 12 punts dropped effectively inside the 20-yard line.
Placekicker Rian Lindell is hitting 91 percent of his field goal attempts and is six out of seven beyond 40 yards. Roscoe Parrish handles the punt return duties and can be dangerous in the open field (10.3 yard average). Terrence McGee is the kick returner and can hit a crease effectively (25-yard average and a long of 72 yards).

New York Jets
Punter Ben Graham gets good hang time and has a net average of 38.6 yards. He has had one blocked but has been effective, dropping 15 punts inside the 20-yard line. Placekicker Mike Nugent has a strong leg but has been inconsistent, hitting 70 percent of his field goal attempts and missing one extra point.
Tim Dwight handles the Jets punt-return duties and has a solid 10.2-yard average, but he has no real breakaway returns thus far. Justin Miller leads the league in kick returns with a 29.7 yard average and two touchdowns.
New England Patriots
Punter Josh Miller has been inconsistent with his hang time and distance, netting an average of 36.8 yards. He is above average, though, with five touchbacks and nine punts dropped inside the 20-yard line. Rookie placekicker Stephen Gostkowski has a strong leg, but also has been inconsistent, hitting only 67 percent of his attempts.
Kevin Faulk is the Pat's punt returner and can be dangerous in the open field, posting a 13.4-yard average with a long of 43 yards. Rookie Laurence Maroney hits a crease hard as a kick returner and has been impressive, posting a 30.4 yard average and two long returns in the past two games.
Miami Dolphins
Punter Donnie Jones has been inconsistent with a net average of only 35 yards. He has had one punt blocked, but he can drop the ball inside the 20-yard line effectively (11 times in 2006 and only three touchbacks). Miami placekicker Olindo Mare has been inconsistent in 2006, hitting 69 percent of his attempts.
Wes Welker has handled most of the punt- and kick-return duties and has flashed big-play ability. He has been corralled since the opener vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers, but he can be effective in the open field (10.7 punt return average, 21.6 kick return average). Many of these numbers won't mean much to the average football fan, but in close games, field position, field-goal percentage, blocked kicks, coverage and turnovers can and do make the difference.

Hache Man · Nov 1, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 4 New Articles Added 10/31/06)

49ers' first steps toward the future

posted: Wednesday, November 1, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers continue the shuffling of players in an attempt to try and find something that will work for them with consistency. With the recent release of cornerback B.J. Tucker from the 53-man active roster and the signing of veteran CB Donald Strickland, the 49ers seem to be reaching for something that will generate a spark on defense. The 49ers' secondary has given up a league leading 15 touchdowns and has a pass-defense ranked next to last in the NFL. There are major concerns as to when this team is going to show some signs of life as they continue marching through their rebuilding phase.

The offense seems to be finally starting to show some life, but where is the defensive genius behind head coach Mike Nolan and defensive coordinator Billy Davis? The 49ers may be second to last in the NFC in pass-defense, but are last in the NFC in total defense. That means teams are having their way with them in whatever fashion they want week after week. Defenses are usually able to come together much faster than offenses when a team is implementing a new system, but this is the second year for the defensive scheme implemented by Nolan and little progress has been made.
Conversely, this is the first year of offensive coordinator Norv Turner's reign and he already has quarterback Alex Smith playing at a much higher level, despite the obvious notion that Smith will naturally develop after his dismal rookie performance. The 49ers' offense ranks No. 10 overall in rushing offense, which has helped take pressure off of Smith and allows him to create plays. Because he is being surrounded by a solid run game, he is able to get into a rhythm earlier in games and not feel as though he has to win the game each week. The 49ers have a big test this weekend against the Vikings and this could be a pivotal game in showing the fans and the organization as to what the 49ers can be in the future. They do not need a win, just a solid showing, because no one expects them to win in the first place. There are no realistic expectations that the 49ers were to be playoff bound this year, anyways. If they keep it close, and play well, there is great promise for next year.

Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Thursday, November 2, 2006
<TABLE style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 7px" cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top>

</TD><TD vAlign=top>

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>Romo hoping for encore

By Scouts, Inc.





<TABLE class=text11 cellSpacing=4 cellPadding=0 width=552 border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD width="100%">Why To Watch
Tony Romo will be looking to prove his first start at Carolina was not a fluke. Romo looked good and should continue to make improvements over the last half of the season. The Cowboys need a win at Washington to keep pace with the Giants.

The Redskins are in a big hole and do not have much of a chance at the playoffs this year, but can play the part of the spoiler because misery loves company. Will Joe Gibbs take a page out of Bill Parcells' game plan and finally make a change at quarterback from Mark Brunell to Jason Campbell. This should be a hard-hitting NFC East matchup between two division rivals.

When the Cowboys have the ball
Rushing: Behind the legs of Julius Jones and Marion Barber, the Cowboys have the fifth-best rushing attack in the NFL in yards per game. Jones is averaging 88 yards per game, with a solid 4.2 yards per carry average, and Barber is averaging over five yards a carry, with six touchdowns.
The Cowboys like to use a balanced running attack, with the same amount of inside and outside runs. Look for the Cowboys to attack the off tackle area of the Redskins' defense, as it has been the softest spot to run on.
The Cowboys will use more two-back formations, as converted linebacker Oliver Hoyte has done a good job of run blocking to open holes up for Jones and Barber. The Redskins have the 15th best defense against the run, averaging 110.7 yards per game. Their inability to stop the run the past three weeks has hurt this defense.
Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams will have to balance stopping the run with protecting his corners this week. Look for Williams to bring strong safety Adam Archuleta to stop the run and get into Romo's face.

Passing: Tony Romo has breathed new life into the Cowboys' offense. His added mobility allows the coaches to get more receivers out in routes, instead of having them stay in and pass protect. It also allows the Cowboys to move the pocket with bootleg passes, getting Romo on the edge of the defense with a run/pass option.
Tight end Jason Witten's role will be increased, as he will not have to stay in and pass block. Look for Romo to work the middle of the field between the numbers against the Redskins. Romo does a nice job of throwing in routes off play action to Owens, Glenn and Witten, and should take advantage if the Redskins take away the outside lanes by playing a two-deep zone.
The Redskins could gamble and play single coverage on the outside lanes, noting the inaccuracy of Romo's throws on fade routes. Most of the balls have been thrown out of bounds in the last game and a half. The Redskins should be at full strength this week in their secondary for the first time this season, giving Gregg Williams more flexibility in his play calling.

When the Redskins have the ball
Rushing: The Redskins will attack the Cowboys' 3-4 defense with misdirection, counter and power plays, by pulling the backside guard to kick out outside linebackers Greg Ellis or Demarcus Ware and run the ball off tackle.
The counter action by the backs will freeze the inside linebackers, allowing the frontside guard to take good angles, opening up running lanes for Portis and Betts. These runs give the offensive lineman good angles on the Cowboys' front three and negate the two- gap defense they play.
The Redskins are averaging 128.4 yards per game, and Clinton Portis is the workhorse in this offense. Portis should be fresh just coming off the bye. The Cowboys' defense held the Redskins to under 100 yards in their first meeting, but gave up more yards per rush than any other opponent this year, including the Giants.

Passing: The Redskins need to find some type of consistency in their passing game to have any chance at winning this game. Mark Brunell is completing 64 percent of his passes, while throwing seven touchdowns. Most of these passes have been in the short to medium range. The Redskins are throwing 86 percent of their passes under 20 yards. Al Saunders' offense is about creating mismatches and he will try to work on cornerbacks Anthony Henry and Terence Newman, trying to get them matched up on Santana Moss. Saunders will work on Cowboys' outside linebackers Demarcus Ware and Greg Ellis, as both have struggled in zone coverage when not given help by corners in a two-deep zone. The Cowboys do not blitz much, but they have been very effective when they do, as opposing quarterbacks are completing 42 percent of their passes with only two touchdowns. Look for defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer to bring some pressure to rattle Brunell.

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Updated: Nov. 2, 2006, 11:25 AM ET

Quarterback quandaries

By Joe Theismann
ESPN Insider
Archive




<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 10px" vAlign=top>
Ahh, quarterbacks. They are my favorite subjects to talk about, and as we approach the midpoint of the season, we have a lot of quarterback situations to discuss. Here's a look at a few situations where grumblings have started or probably are about to start as to who should be the quarterback down the stretch of the season. Also, SportsNation wants to know what you think about these quarterback situations.
Washington Redskins: Jason Campbell vs. Mark Brunell
It might be time for a change in Washington, and that change should come at the top of the food chain with Brunell. He simply has been too inconsistent this season, and that inconsistency has spread to the rest of the offense. There are times when he plays like gangbusters and there isn't anyone else the team wants running the offense, but there are times when he's stumbling around making mistakes and thwarting drives.
Obviously, we don't know what we're going to get from Campbell, but he's been groomed to take this position over since he came into the league and it might be time for this infusion of youth to start.
Arizona Cardinals: Matt Leinart vs. Kurt Warner
It's too late to make the change here because this is now Leinart's team. Maybe the Cardinals should've been more patient with Warner at the beginning of the season and not made the switch, but they did, and now they have to stick with the decision. Leinart might not have Warner's experience and the ability to read defenses and progressions as quickly as Warner, but those will come down the pike. He's a great leader, does everything possible to prepare and plays the game with a tremendous amount of passion.
In the end, this season is pretty much done for the Cardinals anyway, so it's worth it to keep Leinart in these games to learn and get used to the different defenses and situations so that when these games truly matter, he'll be properly prepared.
Miami Dolphins: Daunte Culpepper vs. Joey Harrington
This is a tough one. Do you go with the highly touted free agent (Culpepper) who was brought in to lead this team to greatness even though he doesn't look anywhere near close to being 100 percent? Or do you go with the much-maligned and less-touted free agent (Harrington) who essentially was run out of his last job?
Well, as of right now, I think you have to go with Harrington because he's been able to avoid sacks more than Culpepper even though he's thrown seven interceptions to Culpepper's three. Also, I don't think Culpepper is close to being healthy and don't feel it's worth it to risk the health of a guy who was brought in to win for years for a couple of games that are meaningless.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Charlie Batch vs. Ben Roethlisberger
This is another doozy because although the job is obviously Roethlisberger's, he has played well in only one game and has cost them several. Meanwhile, Batch has played lights-out when he has been on the field. He's assertive on the field and knows what is expected of him. He's done a great job leading this team down the field and making big plays whenever Pittsburgh needs them.
On the flip side, Roethlisberger doesn't look comfortable out there right now. He's indecisive and has lost a little bit of that poise and fearlessness we're all used to seeing from him. My guess is that's because he didn't have the preseason to get ready. The Steelers have to decide whether the bad play is behind Roethlisberger, and soon, because right now, the team's collective back is against the wall at 2-5.
Jacksonville Jaguars: David Garrard vs. Byron Leftwich
The Jaguars are in this mess because they judge talent too well. How many teams would love to be in a predicament where they have two young quarterbacks who can lead the team and who have the smarts and skills to be potential All-Pros. Not many are so blessed, and the Jaguars just happen to be one of them. This is one of those situations where I don't believe the Jags can go wrong because both guys are so good. I just look forward to one or both of these quarterbacks breaking the bank in free agency.
Denver Broncos: Jake Plummer vs. Jay Cutler
Do you fix what really isn't that broke, or do you make a change just to make one? That's the way I look at this quarterback quandary. Plummer has played decent football against very good pass defenses this season, and although he hasn't taken care of the ball as well as last season, he also hasn't reverted to a couple of seasons ago when you were more surprised when he didn't turn the ball over. Obviously, coach Mike Shanahan has been feeling pressure to start Cutler, and a lot of that is Shanahan's fault because he hasn't been strong enough in his statements about what the immediate future holds at the quarterback position for the Broncos.
It's far more difficult for a starting quarterback to do his job when he's not being supported publicly. Every quarterback in the league knows he's a couple of bad performances from possibly being benched, but you need your coaches to get your back in the media to take some of the questions and pressure off. That really hasn't happened in Denver yet, and it's a shame. That said, I'd stick with Plummer because this team has the potential to be something special with the defense it's employing and it would be ludicrous to risk giving games back to the rest of the field while trying to work in a rookie quarterback.
Kansas City Chiefs: Damon Huard vs. Trent Green
Huard has played his butt off since stepping into the starter's spot after Green's injury. No one expected this journeyman to do a darn thing right, and a lot of people thought the Chiefs' season was dead on arrival after that injury. Instead, Huard still has them in the heart of the playoff race. However, Green is the leader of this team. He's the guy who leads the Chiefs, and they know it. This team has been clamoring to get him back on the field, and once he does return, I believe he's going to lead K.C. to the playoffs.
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Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Updated: Nov. 2, 2006
Five reasons Romo is best fit for Cowboys

By Chuck Knox Jr.
Scouts Inc.
Archive




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After struggling in relief of Drew Bledsoe in the Cowboys' Monday night meltdown against the Giants (Week 7), Tony Romo bounced back with a solid outing in Dallas' 35-14 victory at Carolina on Sunday. Chuck Knox Jr. of Scouts Inc. believes the Cowboys should stick with Romo at QB. Here's why:<OFFER>
<TABLE class=tableheadFixWidth cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width=200 align=right><TBODY><TR class=stathead><TD class=whitelink colSpan=2>Tony Romo</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow align=right><TD align=left>

Quarterback
Dallas Cowboys

Profile</TD></TR><TR class=evenrow><TD align=middle><TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=1 width=190 bgColor=#ffffff border=0><TBODY><TR class=stathead align=middle><TD align=middle colSpan=6>2006 SEASON STATISTICS</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND: #bcbcb4" align=right><TD width="17%">Att</TD><TD width="17%">Comp</TD><TD width="17%">Yds</TD><TD width="17%">TD</TD><TD width="17%">Int</TD><TD width="17%">Rat</TD></TR><TR align=right bgColor=#999999><TD>63</TD><TD>40</TD><TD>512</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>4</TD><TD>84.9</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>1. Mobility: Without a doubt, Romo gives the Cowboys more mobility at the quarterback position than Bledsoe ever did. Romo feels the pass-rush while keeping his eyes downfield and has the foot quickness and balance to sidestep the rush to get in position to either throw or run with the ball.
2. Play-calling: With Romo under center, the Cowboys can open up their playbook, since they do not have to worry about giving him that solid wall of protection. They can get more receivers out into routes, instead of having them stay in to help pass-block, thus putting more pressure on defenses.
3. Arm strength/accuracy: Romo has the arm strength to make almost any throw and can complete passes against tight coverage. He has good enough accuracy to put the ball where the defender cannot get at it, and his accuracy should improve as the season progresses.
4. Quick release: It doesn't take a football expert to see that Romo has a quicker release then Bledsoe, which allows Romo to beat the pass-rush with his arm. It also gives defenders less time to react to routes and throws, forcing them to play tighter coverage. 5. Leadership: Romo has that innate charisma that compels players to rally around him when times are tough. Despite throwing three interceptions in the second half of the Giants game, Romo provided a a noticeable spark for the Cowboys' offense. And against the Panthers, the Cowboys had a sense of urgency and purpose that came from the players' confidence in Romo.
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Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Steelers ruining hard-earned rep

posted: November 2, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Pittsburgh Steelers

How bad has it gotten for the Steelers? Believe it or not, it's worse than Big Ben's four picks and concussion problems and the fact that the defending Super Bowl champs lost a game to a one-win team that gained only 98 total yards.

It's worse because the Steelers lost in a fashion that's an affront to an identity they've proudly built for more than a decade. You can't trust them to execute Cowherball, and sure enough, they're not. At no time this season was it more painfully evident than in the closing minutes against the Raiders last Sunday.
With just under three minutes to go, Pittsburgh was down seven and had a first-and-goal at the Raiders' one. The Steelers, as my friend Steve points out, "always score at the goal line. They own the goal line."
Not anymore.
First down: Willie Parker gets stuffed up the middle for no gain.
Second down: Najeh Davenport runs right and loses five yards. Yes -- five yards to a Raiders team that allowed 165 rushing yards to the Niners.
Third down: Davenport is penalized for a false start, costing Pittsburgh five yards and a play that Big Ben said later, "probably would have ended up being a touchdown."
Fourth down: Big Ben scrambles left, opts to pass instead of dive for the goal line, and the ball is incomplete.
It was sad to see, unless you paint your face black and silver and carry leather whips. It was sad not because Pittsburgh lost, but because this is how bad it's gotten for the defending champs. They can't punch it in from a yard out. The Steelers, inept at the goal line? Since when? Since this season started, really. This team has managed to trash Pittsburgh's decade-long reputation as an unstoppable force from short range. With Jerome Bettis in the backfield, Pittsburgh never whiffed at the goal line.
Now, the defending champs couldn't score with the game - and maybe the season - on the line. Not that they didn't try to resemble the old Steelers. It wasn't as if they went four-wide in those plays against the Raiders; on two of them they had 6-foor-4, 324-pound tackle Trai Essex lined up as a tight end and 255-pound fullback Dan Kreider leading the way. Or, rather, not leading the way. The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review's Monday headline read, "The Longest Yard." Which is quickly turning into an even longer season

Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Updated: Nov. 2, 2006
Top defensive linemen invite comparisons

By Craig Haubert
Scouts Inc.
Archive




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Different schemes call for different types of defensive linemen. Some defensive coordinators want faster players who can get upfield, get penetration and make plays. In order to have that, they are willing to sacrifice size for speed and athleticism.
Other coordinators might want bigger players who eat up blocks and allow linebackers to flow to the ball and make tackles.
Regardless of what a program may be looking for, the talent is out there to fill the needs. Here is a look at the top five defensive linemen in the country and which NFL players they remind us of.
All are excellent athletes and are versatile enough to fit at different positions and make a difference. You might see a high school defensive end compared to an NFL outside linebacker. The positions might not be a perfect match, but the two players' similar style and ability is noticeable.
The five players are ranked so highly because they have rare combinations of size, speed and athleticism and would be welcome additions to any defense.
Top 5 defensive linemen

Editor's Note: Tom Luginbill and Craig Haubert each have worked in pro personnel and evaluated many professional players. Their knowledge, combined with Scouts Inc.'s extensive knowledge and evaluations of NFL and collegiate players, makes these comparisons possible. To clarify, we are not saying these prospects will be as good as the NFL players mentioned. Rather, we are saying these prospects have similar skills and traits to the NFL players mentioned and have the potential to excel.
Prospect: Martez Wilson (6-foot-4, 230 pounds), Simeon High School, Chicago
NFL Comparison: Demarcus Ware (6-4, 251), Dallas Cowboys

Matthew Emmons/US Presswire
Demarcus Ware has three sacks through seven games this season.

Ware was a college defensive end whose athleticism allowed him to move to outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme in the NFL. Since his arrival, he has been recognized as one of the future stars of the league.
Wilson also can be an exciting and versatile player at the college level. It's easy to envision him as an outside linebacker in college, but his best fit, with some added size, will be as a defensive end.
What these guys have in common is versatility, athleticism and overall speed. Wilson not only could play linebacker and end on defense, he also is a handful as a wide receiver. That versatility is a huge asset and is what helps separate him from the thousands of prospects out there.
Speed is such a key to a defense's success today, and like Ware, Wilson has the speed to make plays all over the field and get to the ball in hurry. Both also are dangerous pass rushers who can get upfield and turn the corner. Ware is just starting to complement his pass rushing ability with a variety of moves, and that is something that will make Wilson more dangerous as he begins to add that to his game.
Looking at the size of these two players, it's reasonable to think that while they can move, they could struggle to defend the run. In the case of Ware and Wilson, looks are deceiving. Ware can string plays out and will step up and fill and use leverage to win at the point of attack. Wilson looks lean on film, but he is very physical and can defeat blocks and make plays when the ball is run at him.
Any time you can line a player up at several positions and get good production, you have something special. Ware entered the league as an end but quickly made the transition to linebacker and is as good as there is in the NFL. Wilson will enter college a little undersized, but he can do so much so well, he will be tough to keep off the field.
Prospect: Marvin Austin (6-2, 290), Ballou, Washington, D.C.
NFL Comparison: Brodrick Bunkley (6-2, 300), Philadelphia Eagles
Bunkley really gained national attention at the 2006 NFL combine, when he lifted 225 pounds 44 times, one off the record. The feat of strength was impressive, but it was far from the only reason he was drafted in the first round last spring.
I don't know how many times Austin could lift 225 pounds, but I know it is not just a bench test that has him rated as the No. 1 defensive tackle in the class of 2007. Austin might not have had a public display of his strength like Bunkley, but from watching his film, it is evident he is not lacking in that department.
These players have similar builds and styles of play, and both could be considered undersized for their position. While Austin still has time to grow, it is not measurables that make these two such good players -- it is their athletic ability. Both are explosive players, capable of being disruptive, one-gap penetrators. They have the quickness to get past a blocker and make plays in the backfield. They are explosive out of their stance and can knock a blocker back when they generate power from their lower bodies.
Their quickness also makes them threats as pass rushers from the tackle position. Both players change direction well and have excellent motors. Austin can make plays on the perimeter and really be a handful for a blocker.
Bunkley needs to play in a scheme that allows him to consistently work upfield and get penetration. He does not fit well in a two-gap scheme, but we believe that while Austin is best at being a one-gap player like Bunkley, he does have the ability to also be a two-gap player.
With some more time to grow, Austin probably will end up being bigger than Bunkley and will have more versatility to adjust to different schemes. He could be disruptive but also have the bulk to take on blocks and hold his ground.
Austin needs to improve his pad level, though, and play with more consistent leverage at the college level. The more you look at these two players, the more similar they seem. The similarities may not just end with their builds and styles of play; Bunkley played his college ball at Florida State, and the Seminoles are one of the teams Austin is considering.
Prospect: Kerry Neal (6-3, 232), Bunn, N.C.
NFL Comparison: Julius Peppers (6-7, 283), Carolina Panthers
Peppers is a tough player with whom to compare any high school prospect, because he is such a special talent, and Neal is not quite in Peppers' league, though that is no surprise given his age and experience.

Don Fuller/Eastern Wake News
Defensive end Kerry Neal verbally committed to Notre Dame the same day he got his offer.

However, Neal does stack up well, all things considered, to the talented Carolina Panthers defensive end. First off, both are North Carolina natives, and the proximity of their high schools already has people making the comparison. Neal says people even have told him the two look alike. In street clothes, there's a slight resemblance, but on the field, it is easy to see the comparison, despite the obvious difference in size. Peppers is much taller, while Neal possesses a more ideal build, especially for a high-school prospect, but their play is similar.
Peppers and Neal are both excellent athletes and versatile enough to play defensive end or to move around and play in space. Neither looks out of place standing up and operating out in the flat. They both have the skills to give a defense a lot of freedom in how they are used.
Despite the height difference, both have very good wingspans and can make plays on the ball. Both can take on blockers and knock opponents backward to shed. Both run well and can chase ballcarriers down. As pass rushers, they have the explosiveness to get upfield and beat blockers with speed and a move.
When it comes down to it, Peppers is a better all-around athlete, especially when you take into consideration his size. He has established himself as one of the most feared and dangerous defensive players in the NFL. Neal, on the other hand, still has work to do. He is still a bit raw and needs to improve his technique, but his ability is something to get excited about. Will he be as good as Peppers? That is a tall order and only time will tell, but Notre Dame has a player who should continue to garner those comparisons in college.
Prospect: D.J. Stafford (6-3, 265), LaGrange, Ga.
NFL Comparison: Tamba Hali (6-2, 267), Kansas City Chiefs

Brian Bahr/Getty Images
Tamba Hali was chosen 20th overall in this year's NFL draft.

It took a bit of consideration to find a good comparison fit for Stafford. He is a high school defensive end who very well could play that position in college. Already weighing 265 pounds, though, he also could develop into a defensive tackle down the road. Whether he plays inside or outside, the thing that pops into our mind when talking about him is how physical he is, and it was a matter of finding a player with similar skills who also plays with that same "seek and destroy" attitude. After studying several players who came to mind, we saw some strong similarities in the games of Stafford and Hali.
Power is the name of the game with these two. Both are quick and explosive off the ball, can get under a blocker and push him back and control him. Both will hit you hard when they tackle you and have the athleticism to make plays along the line of scrimmage.
Hali and Stafford also can muscle blockers back in passing situations and get in the quarterback's face, or they can use a move to get past a blocker. Stafford is very adept at trying to set up blockers with a move then countering back.
The bottom line is that both are tough and play the game hard, and that is their biggest similarity. Stafford already has the size and probably will get bigger over time. That added size should make him even harder to handle and block in college.
Prospect: Allen Bailey (6-3, 252), McIntosh County Academy, Darien, Ga.
NFL Comparison: Shawne Merriman (6-3, 249), San Diego Chargers

Brian Bahr/Getty Images
Shawne Merriman is the all-time leader at Frederick Douglass High School with 443 career tackles.

Their positions don't match up, but both players are excellent athletes with tons of versatility. Merriman, who is quickly establishing himself as one of the premier defensive players in the NFL, plays outside linebacker in the Chargers' 3-4 defense. Bailey, one of the nation's elite defensive prospects, plays mainly middle linebacker at McIntosh County Academy.
Bailey takes some snaps at defensive end and best projects there in college, but make no mistake -- he could play standing up. Merriman plays that versatile position in the 3-4 scheme and could play with his hand down, if needed.
Athleticism is the key here with this comparison. Both are explosive players and can get around the football. They ward off blocks and work through trash to make plays all over the field. When they hit an opponent, he feels it. Their good combination of speed and power makes them dangerous defensive players. Bailey most will likely continue to grow and develop into a full-time defensive end, but his athleticism will allow him to move around and play in space. The bottom line is that Bailey has the tools to make the same kind of impact in college that Merriman is making in the NFL.
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Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Saints need Brees to come up big

posted: Thursday, November 2, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers

The Saints will need a big game from quarterback Drew Brees against Tampa Bay this weekend. Last week, Brees threw for a career-high 383 yards with three touchdowns and three interceptions. However, two of his interceptions resulted in touchdowns for the Ravens.

Despite their record, the Buccaneers have been playing well lately, especially on the defensive side of the ball. One guy Brees will need to avoid Sunday will be Ronde Barber, who returned two interceptions for touchdowns off Donovan McNabb in Week 7.
The other concern for the Saints is the injury suffered by LOT Jammal Brown last week. Brown easily is the Saints' best offensive lineman and has done a great job in protecting Brees' backside. If Brown can't play, the Saints could be forced to start rookie seventh-round pick Zach Strief. Strief was inactive last week after having surgery to repair the ring finger on his right hand and has yet to play any extended amount of time this season.
Another option for the Saints could be backup Rob Petitti, who was claimed off waivers from Dallas at the start of the season but has been inactive so far. Whoever lines up at left tackle on Sunday will have their hands full in containing Simeon Rice, who is easily the Buccaneers' best pass rusher off the edge.
Also, the Saints will need to make the proper adjustments on how they set their protections against a fast and aggressive Buccaneers defense. The Bucs will look to attack with single zone pressure and overload blitzes that disrupt the left side of the Saints' offensive line. A lot will fall on the shoulders of Brees and his ability to adjust off the pressure and try to exploit the Bucs on the back end in coverage. Brees is a difficult quarterback to pressure because of his ability to process information and get the ball out of his hand quickly.
Expect another close game that could come down to another explosive play in the fourth quarter that determines the outcome. This is a statement game for the Saints if they are going to stay in the race in the NFC South.
Falcons at Lions
Expect QB Michael Vick and the Falcons' offense to put up some big numbers on Sunday against a Detroit defense that is allowing 350 yards a game. Vick has been very impressive over the last few weeks in his ability to attack down the field in the passing game. The Falcons present a lot of problems in their individual matchups on the perimeter against a secondary that can be exploited through the air. Also, the Lions have yet to find any answers on the defensive side of the ball, which offensive coordinator Greg Knapp will take clear advantage of on Sunday.
The mailbag
Rusty, North Carolina: Keith, the Panthers laid an egg this week against the Cowboys. After the way the Cowboys played at home against the Giants, I thought the Panthers were going to dominate the game in all areas. It seemed to me that there was no emotion on the Panthers' team, they seemed flat. How much does emotion play a part at the pro level vs. the college level? Keith: Hey Rusty, thanks for the question. Being a son of a head coach and being involved with football my whole life, I've heard some great pregame speeches. Regardless of the level, I do think that football is a very emotional and physical game. However, the preparation through the week, execution of the game plan and the proper adjustments during the game play a much greater role in deciding the outcome on Sunday afternoon.

Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Ryan getting job done in Oakland

posted: Thursday, November 2, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos

Lost in the Raiders' 2-5 start and 32nd ranked offense has been the outstanding job the Oakland defense has been doing under the tutelage of defensive coordinator Rob Ryan.

Going into Week 9, the Raiders were ranked eighth in total defense (No. 1 vs. the pass and No. 24 vs. the run). After a league low five interceptions last season they are ranked No. 2 in interceptions this season with 10 through the first seven games of the season. They are also ranked fourth in first downs allowed.

The best part about those numbers is that they have been able to do it while trying to back up a sputtering offense that consistently puts them in poor position to get the job done.

However, when looking at numbers, they can be deceiving at times. You take away two poor run collapses against the Chargers and the Raiders' run defense would be in the top 15 as well. So instead of just looking at the numbers, I went to the tape and I saw a young hungry defense that has the back of its defensive coordinator.

Ryan has done an outstanding job of meshing his scheme with the young and talented players the Raiders have on defense. They have put a lot more emphasis on attacking the ball with loaded zones. The thinking is the Raiders have been bringing a lot more pressure then recent seasons, but it has been about the same. When you look at their sacks this season, about 80 percent have been coverage sacks and 20 percent have come from 5-6 man pressures. A lot of those 5-6 man pressures have been zone pressures. With three solid linebackers who can run, the Raiders are able to bring one and then buzz another over into the hole and fill the void. This has caused a lot of confusion for opposing quarterbacks. The Raiders are not a big zone dog team, so when they do bring that package, they have been catching teams off guard and getting to the QB.

A big part of success for any coordinator is getting talent and finding ways to use it. The Raiders' secondary has been excellent this season. Nnamdi Asomugha, [URL="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=7199"]Fabian Washington[/URL] and [URL="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=7214"]Stanford Routt[/URL] are all a year older and a lot more confident. Veteran [URL="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=3154"]Tyrone Poole[/URL] has done a very good job in the slot.

Linebacker's coach Don Martindale has done an excellent job with [URL="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=7254"]Kirk Morrison[/URL] in the middle and rookie [URL="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=7787"]Thomas Howard[/URL] on the outside. Morrison is taking on more of a leadership role within the entire defense.

[URL="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=6826"]Stuart Schweigert[/URL] is the QB of the secondary and rookie first round pick [URL="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=7756"]Michael Huff[/URL] is an amazing athlete that can make plays against the run and the pass.

You add all that together and throw in [URL="http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/players/profile?statsId=5510"]Derrick Burgess[/URL] who is starting to heat up and is on pace for another 15-16 sack season and you start looking pretty good on defense.

More than just calling plays and schemes, Ryan should be commended on keeping this unit together. Too often in the NFL we see a let up in one unit when the other is not getting the job done. There have been many games where the Raider defense could have surrendered based on the offense's output, but they hung tough, played together and won the game.

The Raiders have always been athletic and speedy on defense, but right now Ryan has tied it all together to form the best defensive unit in the NFL that nobody ever talks about.

Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

QB controversy in Jax and Houston

posted: Thursday, November 2, 2006 | Feedback | Print Entry
filed under: Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos

One thing you can say about Indianapolis is that as long as Peyton Manning is healthy, there will be no quarterback controversy. The same thing can't be said in Jacksonville and Houston.

Houston quarterback David Carr was yanked in the second half Sunday in their game against Tennessee after fumbling the ball twice and throwing an interception. Earlier this week head coach Gary Kubiak said that, when healthy, Carr is his No. 1 quarterback. However his actions on Sunday as well as other comments have said that no one is replaceable. He has cut or traded veterans who just haven't performed up to expectations and insists on loyalty as well as effort in their play.

Kubiak insists on ball security and when Carr had already fumbled the ball once and had thrown an interception before halftime, he told Carr and the team that they had to play mistake-free football in the second half in order to have a chance to come back against the Titans. When Carr fumbled the ball for the second time, Kubiak pulled him and inserted Sage Rosenfels.

Carr has been experiencing his best season. However fumbling and sacks have been an issue. He has been sacked 20 times and fumbled five times. Not all of the sacks or fumbles have been his fault. Carr is a good athlete, but when he does not get the protection he needs, there is a chance he will fumble the ball. Manning is not nearly as elusive as Carr, but has only been sacked seven times. Granted, Manning has a great feel for the rush and a natural clock in his head, but the majority of his success at avoiding the sack has to be attributed to his protection. Kubiak needs to look at his offensive line and demand better protection.

In Jacksonville, Byron Leftwich was on the bench for Sunday's victory over Philadelphia and will be there this week as head coach Jack Del Rio has named David Garrard the starter once again. Del Rio is saying that when 100 percent healthy, Leftwich is his starter, but people are starting to wonder if Leftwich is ever going to be 100 percent the rest of this season.

Leftwich is a tough competitor who did not like watching from the bench. He has looked great in some games while looking very ordinary in others. In the Jags loss to Houston, Leftwich looked very ordinary throwing for 125 yards on a 14 for 28 night. He claimed that his ankle was not an issue in that game.

Jacksonville does not really have any speed demons at wide receiver to stretch the secondary and tends to rely on the short passing game to compliment their strong running game. What Del Rio wants in a quarterback is someone to manage the game and avoid turnovers and take the high percentage throws. He wants to win with a strong running game and a defense that causes turnovers. Garrard's foot speed and running skills lends itself to that style as long as he can throw the ball effectively when called upon to do so.

While I think a healthy Leftwich has the talent to lead this team to the playoffs, he needs to recognize that there is a time to be brave and play with minor nicks and bruises, but there is also a time to let his body heal. Now may be that time.

Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Thursday, November 2, 2006
Take 2: Colts vs. Patriots

By Scouts, Inc.





<TABLE class=text11 cellSpacing=4 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD><TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=9>Indianapolis at New England Matchups</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>QB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>RB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>WR</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>OL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>DL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>LB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>DB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>ST</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>Coach</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>Overall</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD align=middle width=62>

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Earlier this week, our scouts filed their advance scouting report on this week's matchup between the Colts and Patriots. Now they're back with a second look.

? The Colts have the most impressive passing game in the league led by All-Pro quarterback Peyton Manning. His 274-yard average and 67 percent completion rate give the Patriots' defense cause for concern. Look for Manning to continue to attack through the air vs. a New England defense that gives up an average of 215 yards per contest. It will be a challenge for Bill Belichick and defensive coordinator Dean Pees to defend all the weapons Manning has to throw to.
? New England's secondary will have its hands full as it cannot double team more than one target without compromising the run defense. Look for the Patriots' defense to play a bend-but-don't-break scheme to limit big plays through the air. Belichick tends not to all-out blitz opponents' passing games, but he'll will mix in zone blitzes with loose man and zone coverages.
? The Indianapolis ground attack has averaged a modest 108 yards per game with the most productive ball carrier being the rookie Joseph Addai. Addai averaged 5.5 yards per carry vs. the tough Denver defense in Week 8 and Colts offensive coordinator Tom Moore will try to establish a running game early to keep the Patriots' defense off balance.
New England has the third-best defense in the league vs. the run and it will be tough for the Colts to move the chains on the ground. If the Patriots can stymie the Indianapolis ground attack with their base 3-4 defensive front it gives Pees options to disguise exotic coverages and try to keep Manning off balance.

Wilfork

? The Indianapolis offensive line will have its hands full vs. one of the best defensive lines in the league. The size and power of defensive tackle Vince Wilfork will be a key matchup with Colts center Jeff Saturday. The athletic ability and experience of defensive ends Ty Warren and Richard Seymour will test the run and pass blocking talent of Indy tackles Tarik Glenn and Ryan Diem. The matchup in the trenches will be a key to victory on Sunday night. If the Patriots can pressure Manning out of a four-man rush, the advantage will go to New England. But if Manning has time to survey the field, the Colts' air attack will put up big numbers.
? New England quarterback Tom Brady is coming off one of his best performances of his career with 372 yards, four touchdowns and only one interception. The Patriots have a good balance -- a modest 215 yards per game through the air and 124 yards on the ground. Brady has been efficient with an excellent 14-4 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Look for Brady to continue to play well this week as the winner with have a leg up on home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
? The Patriots' ground attack is very solid, featuring the best RB duo in the league in Laurence Maroney and Corey Dillon. The duo has seven touchdowns and averages over four yards per carry. The Colts are a poor tackling team and give up an average of 164 yards per game. Look for Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to continue to be balanced but force the ground attack early.
Colts defensive coordinator Ron Meeks has a huge challenge slowing down Maroney and Dillon after the poor showing vs. the Denver rushing game (227 yards and a 6.3-yard per carry average). Look for a mix of eight-man fronts and defensive line stunts to help stuff the New England running game. ? The air attack targets for Brady had their best showing vs. the Vikings in Week 8. Patriots talented tight end Ben Watson is still the leading receiver with 28 catches at a 13-yard average, but the trio of Troy Brown, Reche Caldwell and Doug Gabriel has stepped up and produced well over the past month. Look for the Patriots to use more conventional formations vs. the Colts, but the four-wide receiver (spread) attack can always be summoned if the Patriots get in a shootout.

Special Teams
The kicking game is a big story line with former New England kicker Adan Vinatieri returning to Foxboro. Vinatieri is a perfect 14-for-14 on field goals this year and won't be intimidated by the Foxboro surroundings. Indy punter Hunter Smith has a strong leg but has been inconsistent with his hang time, netting only 33 yards. Terrence Wilkins handles both the punt and kick return duties for Indy and can be dangerous in the open field. Patriots rookie kicker Stephen Gostkowski has been inconsistent, hitting only 67 percent of his attempts. Punter Josh Miller has also been inconsistent with a net average of 36.8 yards. New England punt returner Kevin Faulk has been solid with a 13.4-yard average. Maroney has been impressive as a kick retuner with two long returns in the past two weeks. He's averaging over 30 yards.

Matchups
? Patriots TE Ben Watson vs. Colts LB Cato June
? Patriots LOT Matt Light vs. Colts DE Dwight Freeney
? Colts LOT Tarik Glenn vs. Patriots DE Richard Seymour
? Colts WR Marvin Harrison vs. Patriot CB Asante Samuel
? Patriot DT Vince Wilfork vs. Colts C Jeff Saturday

Scouts' Edge
This is a huge game for both teams. The winner will mark its territory as the club to beat in the AFC. The key to this contest is the Indianapolis ground attack. If the Colts can move the chains some on the ground it should keep the Patriots' defense off balance. If the Patriots can make Indy one-dimensional on offense out of their base 3-4 defense, the advantage will go to New England. Look for a hard-fought battle that may be determined with a late field goal. This should be an exciting game, but the Patriots are hitting on all cylinders and the Colts rely too much on the arm of Manning.

Prediction: Patriots 24, Colts 23

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Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Thursday, November 2, 2006
Take 2: Packers vs. Bills

By Scouts, Inc.





<TABLE class=text11 cellSpacing=4 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD><TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=9>Green Bay at Buffalo Matchups</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>QB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>RB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>WR</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>OL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>DL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>LB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>DB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>ST</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>Coach</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>Overall</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD align=middle width=62>

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Earlier this week, our scouts filed their advance scouting report on this week's matchup between the Packers and Bills. Now they're back with a second look.

Future Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre appears to have given the Packers hopes of a playoff run. The 37-year old has been playing much better in 2006, passing for an average of 233 yards per game.
Favre still has enough in the tank to lead this team to a winning season, if he has support from the ground attack and defense. Favre is having fun again, but has learned to play a more conservative game.
? The Packers' ground game has been very solid, averaging 4.5 yards yard per attempt with their top three backs. Veteran Ahman Green is having a good season thus far, bouncing back from an injury in 2005. The hard-nosed running style and inline cutting ability makes him tough to tackle for defenders.
Look for Green Bays' offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski to continue balancing the ground attack and passing game. Favre is best out of the play action passing game, and an established ground attack makes it most effective.
? The loss of top receiver Javon Walker after the 2004 season appeared to hinder Favre and the air attack last year. Two targets have stepped up and played well for the Packers in Donald Driver and rookie Greg Jennings. They have combined for 62 receptions and five touch downs.
Jennings was inactive in Week 8, but replacement Ruvell Martin helped move the chains with four receptions. Favre likes to spread the ball around and looks for his tight ends (Bubba Franks and David Martin) often to move the chains. The Buffalo secondary has not played well during the three-game slide, and Favre will look to exploit the Bills' corners.
? The battle in the trenches will be a key to the Packers moving the ball on the ground. Green Bay has the size advantage vs. the smaller, quicker defensive front of the Bills. Look for the combination of Scott Wells, Jason Spitz and Daryn Colledge to get movement on Bills' defensive tackles Larry Trpplett and Tim Anderson. The Bills' offensive line (three changes in the bye week ) has a big challenge blocking the inside power of Green Bays' defensive interior, and the athleticism of edge rushers Aaron Kampman and Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila.
? The Buffalo offense has stumbled over the past three weeks. Bills' quarterback J.P. Losman had been efficient and effective taking care of the ball early in the season, but his performance has regressed.
The support of an effective ground attack, along with inconsistent protection from the offensive line, has forced Losman into costly turnovers. Bills' offensive coordinator Steve Fairchild will need to keep a balance in his play calling for Buffalo to have success. Losman has the tools to make all the throws, but needs to make better decisions in crucial third-down situations.
? The Buffalo ground game has been stymied over the past three contests, with featured back Willis McGahee averaging only 55 yards per game. The Bills' coaching staff made some changes on the offensive line and look for a few play calling wrinkles, along with back up Anthony Thomas getting some touches. The production may have to come off tackle and out on the perimeters vs. this tough Green Bay defense.
? The Bills' receiving core has talent and may be able to exploit the worst passing defense in the league, giving up an average of 270 yards per game. The Green Bay defense did play better against the Cardinals, holding them to only 157 yards in the air, but the Packer' secondary had been burnt often prior to Week 8. Lee Evans, Peerless Price and Josh Reed have been solid, but have produced few big plays.
Look for WR Roscoe Parrish to possibly get some touches, as he has the most juice in the open field. The tight ends were used little through the first half of the season, and there may be an effort to get Robert Royal more involved.

Special Teams
The kicking game is always a challenge in Orchard Park, New York in early November. The Buffalo Bills appear to have a decided advantage in the kicking game. Green Bay Punter Jon Ryan has a strong leg, but his hang time has been inconsistent with a net of only 35 yards. Place kicker Dave Rayner has hit 79 percent of his field goal attempts, but is only 4 for 7 beyond 40 yards.
Packers' punt returner Charles Woodson is not the same type of threat he once was coming out of college. Green Bays kick returner Koren Robinson has been suspended, and replacement Vernand Morency will miss this week with an injury. Buffalo punter Brian Moorman has a strong leg and nets 39.6 yards. He is excellent at dropping the ball inside the 20 yard line (12 in 2006).
Place kicker Rian Lindell has been excellent, hitting 91 percent of his attempts and 6 of 7 beyond 40 yards. Bills' punt returner Roscoe Parrish can be dangerous in the open field, and averages over 10 yards per return. Kick returner Terrence McGee can hit a crease effectively, and almost broke one for a touchdown vs. Detroit (72 yards).

Matchups
? Green Bay DT Ryan Pickett vs. Buffalo Center Melvin Fowler
? Green Bay WR Donald Driver vs. Buffalo DC Terrence McGee
? Buffalo WR Lee Evans vs. Green Bay DC Al Harris
? Buffalo rookie ROT Terrance Pennington vs. Green Bay DE Aaron Kampman
? Green Bay TE Bubba Franks vs. Buffalo LB Angelo Crowell

Scouts' Edge
The Buffalo Bills and the Green Bay Packers are both desperate for a win. It is unlikely either team will make the playoffs, but the club that wins can keep hope alive in the second half of the season. The Green Bay Packers are coming off back to back wins and are feeling good about their direction. The Buffalo Bills are coming off a bye week. Dick Juron and his staff are looking for answers to the poor play in the last three games. Look for some wrinkles from the Bills on both sides of the ball. If Buffalo can establish a ground attack, quarterback J.P. Losman can keep them in the game. If the Packers defense continues to be stingy vs. the run, it will put too much pressure on Losman to make big plays. This will be a hard fought contest, but look for Favre to make it three in a row with a victory on the road.

Prediction: Packers 21, Bills 17

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Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Thursday, November 2, 2006
Take 2: Dolphins vs. Bears

By Scouts, Inc.





<TABLE class=text11 cellSpacing=4 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD><TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=9>Miami at Chicago Matchups</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>QB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>RB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>WR</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>OL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>DL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>LB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>DB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>ST</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>Coach</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>Overall</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD align=middle width=62>

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Earlier this week, our scouts filed their advance scouting report on this week's matchup between the Dolphins and Bears. Now they're back with a second look.

Miami's offensive line has struggled all season, forcing line coach Hudson Houck to shuffle his lineup in the hopes of improving performance and creating better chemistry. He better hope the players jelled during the bye week, as Miami is facing an extremely talented and very deep defensive line.
The athletic Bears' defensive front will cause problems both inside and on the edges. Tommie Harris has such quickness and is playing with great leverage. He does a tremendous job utilizing his hands to defeat his opponents, penetrating and disrupting offenses. Harris will, at times, face brand new Miami starter guard Joe Berger.
Chicago is so fast off the edge, with such talented depth at defensive end, that rookie back up Mark Anderson leads the team with 7.5 sacks as a situational player. Being able to play so many quality players without a drop off in performance keeps the Bears' defensive front fresh and playing dominant football.
? Facing this Chicago defense, look for Joey Harrington to make quick throws, utilizing a three-step game to get the ball to his receivers, as well as TE Randy McMichael. Miami must also establish the running game, pounding big Ronnie Brown.
Calling running plays, especially early, will give the revamped offensive line a chance to come off the ball. Showing a commitment to the run will also give Harrington an opportunity to get down the field with play action passes. Harrington has a tendency to lock in on his receivers, and the ball hawking Bears will bait him into interception opportunities.
Harrington must spread the ball around, utilizing Chris Chambers by getting the ball to him quickly, letting him run after the catch. Chambers can also use his speed to double move Chicago defenders biting up on the short game, getting behind the Bears secondary for downfield shots.
? The Chicago Bears lead the NFL in defensive takeaways with 22 in seven games, as well as the turnover ratio with plus 11 tied. Remember that six of Chicago's 11 offensive turnovers came during Rex Grossman's meltdown against Arizona, giving the Bears only one turnover per game the rest of the season.
Lovie Smith teaches aggressive, attacking the football, working to strip the ball which is evident by the 14 forced fumbles in seven games. After forcing the fumble, this unit becomes offensive always looking to scoop and score with the football. Expect Chicago to continue this approach against a Miami team that has been generous giving up the football.
The Dolphins' offense has only averaged 14.6 points per game ranking 29th in the NFL. Going up against the stingiest defense in the league, with Chicago allowing less than 10 points per contest. With these mismatches, it is crucial that Miami protects the football and minimizes mistakes.
? Miami defensive end Jason Taylor has been outstanding, bringing tremendous pressure from the backside with seven sacks and four forced fumbles. Taylor is a disruptive force who also impacts the run game with his penetration. Facing Taylor will be big John Tait.
Look for Chicago to line up the tight end on the left side to slow down Taylor, as well as having the backs give chip help to the veteran Tait on their way out into their routes. Miami will look to pressure Grossman with a variety of different looks and pressure packages to keep him from getting into any sort of rhythm in the pass game.
The Dolphins will take a page from the Arizona Cardinals game plan that forced Grossman into six turnovers and many poor decisions. Chicago doesn't want to get into a steady dose of drop back passes against the speed of Miami's pass rush.
? If Grossman gets into a groove, this offense can be tremendously explosive. Should the fourth-ranked Miami Dolphins pass defense cause Grossman any problems early in the game, the Bears' coaching staff must get back to calling the run, taking the pressure off of the quarterback.
Running the ball against the Dolphins is no easy task with Keith Traylor in the middle often demanding double teams, allowing middle linebacker Zach Thomas the opportunity to free flow to the football, where this Miami tackling machine is at his best.

Special Teams
The special teams edge also goes to Chicago, as the Bears return game has been outstanding. Miami's coverage units must be disciplined, as punt return man Devin Hester is a threat from anywhere on the field, possessing the vision, elusiveness and speed to take any kick the distance. He has already returned two touchdowns, including the game winner versus Arizona. Rookie Rashied Davis continues to impress, being steady as well as possessing explosive potential on every touch of the ball.
If this game comes down to a field goal battle, once again it favors the Bears. Due to Miami's ineffective offense, Olindo Mare has been asked to attempt five field goals over 50 yards, hitting only one. He is 10 for 12, while Chicago kicker Robbie Gould remains perfect on the season. The Bears' punt coverage has been strong, netting 40.1 yards on Brad Maynard's 46.6 yard average. Miami's Wes Welker has big play ability with his hard charging return style on both punt and kick returns.

Matchups
? Chicago OT John Tait vs. Miami DE Jason Taylor
? Miami OT Damion McIntosh vs. Chicago DEs Alex Brown and Mark Anderson
? Chicago RB Thomas Jones vs. Miami MLB Zach Thomas
? Miami TE Randy McMichael vs. Chicago SLB Hunter Hillenmeyer
? Chicago TE Desmond Clark vs. Miami OLBs Donnie Spragen and Channing Crowder

Scouts' Edge
Miami is a talented team that continues to struggle, and has not yet created an offensive identity. That is not the way Nick Saban wants to go into Soldier Field, facing a Bears' defensive unit that the league in takeaways and has the personnel to take over a game. The Dolphins' defense is very good, but finds itself on the field all too often after three and outs ,as well as defending a short field after offensive miscues, including 10 interceptions. This Bears' defense has set up the Chicago offense by creating turnovers as well as turning offensive scoring on defense. Miami's defense will keep this game respectable, but the excellent play of the Bears will keep the Dolphins searching for their identity. Chicago will stay undefeated.

Prediction: Bears 24, Dolphins 9

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Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Thursday, November 2, 2006
Take 2: Falcons vs. Lions

By Scouts, Inc.





<TABLE class=text11 cellSpacing=4 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD><TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=9>Atlanta at Detroit Matchups</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>QB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>RB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>WR</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>OL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>DL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>LB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>DB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>ST</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>Coach</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>Overall</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD align=middle width=62>

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Earlier this week, our scouts filed their advance scouting report on this week's matchup between the Falcons and Lions. Now they're back with a second look.

Michael Vick began the season dominating defenses BY operating Atlanta's new spread option run game. Atlanta was impressive, with Warrick Dunn and Vick being virtually unstoppable, forcing opposing defenses to make serious game plan adjustments. Then the offensive arsenal added an aerial attack.
The past two games, Vick went out and shredded defenses through the air, hitting seven touchdown passes. Once again, defensive coordinators are forced to spend late nights preparing the game plan to stop such a balanced and explosive offense. You can bet that Rod Marinelli and Donnie Henderson were not excited to see how impressive Vick has been leading the Atlanta offense, but Detroit had the bye week to prepare.
? As impressive as Atlanta has been on the ground, the Falcons were not productive in the passing game, with only 676 yards and three touchdowns compared to three interceptions in the first five games. Vick got on track versus Pittsburgh and Cincinnati, firing seven touchdowns with only a pair of picks and 523 yards in the last two games.
The Falcons' quarterback is showing signs of maturing as a passer. Vick has been calmer in the pocket, keeping his eyes downfield and stepping up in the pocket, making the throw rather than taking off running. This puts major pressure on Detroit's secondary, as the defensive backs will be forced to maintain coverage longer.
? Detroit is without the services of its best defensive lineman in suspended run stopper Shaun Rogers. This will force a change in how the Lions defend Atlanta's run offense, so look for Detroit to shoot the defensive ends or outside linebackers upfield to contain the option play.
James Hall and Kalimba Edwards will have the tough task of containing Vick, with Boss Bailey and Ernie Sims running inside out to handle Warrick Dunn or Jerious Norwood on the hand off. Detroit will be tempted to drop a safety down into the box, but expect the Lions to stay in a Cover 2 shell to avoid giving up a big play in the passing game, especially after Vick's recent success throwing the ball.
? Coming off the bye week, the Lions' offensive line is the healthiest it has been all season, yet this group has not played together much so the best method of getting the five big men in sync is to run the ball. Look for Mike Martz to call run plays, getting Kevin Jones the ball behind the lead blocking of Cory Schlesinger, letting the line fire off the ball together.
Jones is a playmaker who should get at least 18-22 carries and 6-8 receptions per game to give this offense the best opportunity to succeed. By establishing a productive run game and staying committed to the run, Detroit will keep Atlanta honest and create additional offensive opportunities.
? Getting the running game going will allow Jon Kitna to utilize play action to get the ball down field to Roy Williams, or movement type passes to Mike Furrey. Kitna is an extremely efficient quarterback when given time, which has been the challenge all season with the injury problems in the offensive line.
To overcome these problems, Martz must avoid getting into a steady diet of drop back passes, as his protection cannot hold up against Atlanta's pass rush. As much as Martz would love to get pass happy, he learned from the Minnesota loss that if he abandons the run, Kitna will be under duress -- getting sacked, making poor throws and turnovers.
? Kitna can be very steady and has found his big play receiver to be Williams and a steady go-to guy in Furrey, as well as Jones out of the backfield or in the screen game. Kitna has been a 63.3 percent passer for 1853 yards, which has the Lions ranked fifth in passing in the league. The problem has been protection, as Kitna has been sacked 23 times and has thrown nine interceptions.
Atlanta will attack this protection problem with an active defensive line, using a variety of line stunts and linebacker pressure packages to give the Lions' offensive line challenging combinations, forcing breakdowns and getting free runners on the quarterback. Defensive coordinator Ed Donatell will challenge this offensive line, and if Atlanta gets a lead, Donatell will bring a heavy dose of pressure.

Special Teams
Under the direction of coordinator Joe DeCamillis, Atlanta's special teams have been very good, but the kicking game was struggling mightily at the beginning of the season, with kicker Michael Koenen handling all the duties. Koenen was missing field goals, but his punting and kick off duties were good. DeCamillis made the call to get veteran Morten Andersen out of retirement to handle the field goals.
Andersen has made Atlanta look smart by hitting game-winning field goals the past two weeks. Return man Allen Rossum is always a threat, both as a punt and kick returner, and rookie Jerious Norwood brings great speed when he brings back kicks.
Detroit counters the Falcons' strong unit with very good special teams as well. Return man Eddie Drummond is a tremendous player, who is both explosive and powerful running back the ball. Drummond has not taken one the distance, yet has been a positive factor for Detroit in the field position battle. If this game comes down to a field goal battle, the long distance kicks inside Ford Field are very makeable for Detroit's Jason Hansen.

Matchups
? Atlanta QB Michael Vick vs. Detroit DE James Hall and OLB Ernie Sims
? Atlanta ROT Todd Weiner vs. Detroit DE Kalimba Edwards
? Detroit RB Kevin Jones vs. Atlanta MLB Edgerton Hartwell
? Atlanta TE Alge Crumpler vs. Detroit OLB Paris Lenon
? Detroit WR Roy Williams vs. Atlanta CB DeAngelo Hall

Scouts' Edge
The surging Atlanta Falcons come into Ford Field with a new found balanced and explosive offense, led by the talented Michael Vick. Detroit returns after the bye week a little healthier upfront on offense, yet missing a key player on the defensive line with a game plan to defend the explosive Falcons. The Lions will work offensively to control the pace of the game, keeping Atlanta off the field. Generating a running game will give Jon Kitna a chance to efficiently get the ball in the hands of the Lions' playmakers. Detroit will keep this game close until Vick and the explosive Falcons take over the game.

Prediction: Falcons 27, Lions 20

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Hache Man · Nov 2, 2006

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Re: 2NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 14 New Articles Added 11/1/06

Thursday, November 2, 2006
Take 2: Chiefs vs. Rams

By Scouts, Inc.





<TABLE class=text11 cellSpacing=4 cellPadding=0 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR vAlign=top><TD><TABLE id=inlinetable cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=3 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TH style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #000000" colSpan=9>Kansas City at St. Louis Matchups</TH><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>QB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>RB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>WR</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>OL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>DL</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>LB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>DB</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>ST</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>Coach</TD><TD style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #999999" align=middle width=62>Overall</TD></TR><TR style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ececec" vAlign=top><TD align=middle width=62>

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Earlier this week, our scouts filed their advance scouting report on this week's matchup between the Chiefs and Rams. Now they're back with a second look.

? The Chiefs will again be without starting QB Trent Green, who has been sidelined since he sustained a concussion in Week 1. Damon Huard has filled in nicely, but RB Larry Johnson has been carrying the offense. The Chiefs must limit their penalties, as they have most of the year, which will be key for them to control the ball and clock against the defensive front of the Rams.
? Running back Steven Jackson has carried the load for the Rams. Last week running back Stephen Davis fumbled as he was starting to become more involved in the Rams' offense. He will now have his carries pulled back until he can show his fumbling problems are under control. Look for the Rams to continue to use a heavy dose of Jackson in the running game as well as the passing game.
? Rams quarterback Marc Bulger is having one of his most productive seasons. Bulger is a smart quarterback who makes very good decisions and has outstanding playmakers in wide receivers Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce. Look for Bulger to continue to make good decisions as the Rams open up the playbook. Bulger has shown no ill effects from two shoulder injuries that landed him on IR last season.

Johnson

? The Chiefs have an abundance of speed at linebacker and will use this to their advantage to keep the Rams' rushing attack from getting outside and turning the corner. Outside linebacker Derrick Johnson leads the team in sacks (3.5) and tackles (46). Johnson has excellent speed to get outside, which will be critical in turning plays back inside. The Chiefs' other outside linebacker, Kendrell Bell, is a playmaker in his own right and a player who shows very good speed, quickness and athletic ability to make plays.
? The Chiefs' defense is allowing only 294 yards per game, which ranks ninth in the NFL, and only two other teams in the NFC rank better (Bears and Cowboys) than the Chiefs. Johnson has been effective when aligned over the tight end. Standing at 6-foot-3, Johnson creates a very good mismatch against Rams rookie tight end Joe Klopfenstein, who is seeing increased action each week.
? The Rams' defense started the season strong but has been struggling lately against the run. Last week the Rams gave up 183 yards to RB LaDainian Tomlinson of the Chargers and will be tested again this week by Johnson. Johnson has very good power and explosion through the holes and is tough to bring down once he reaches the second level. In large part due to the large number of yards gained by Tomlinson, the Rams now rank in the bottom third of the NFL, giving up 134 rushing yards per game. The Rams must control Johnson in order to have a chance at disrupting the momentum of the Chiefs.
? The Rams' secondary has regressed after starting out very strong and creating turnovers. Cornerback Fakhir Brown is a physical cornerback and will play primarily on wide receiver Samie Parker ,leaving the speedy Eddie Kennison for Travis Fisher. Fisher is a better cover corner and matches up with the speed of Kennison. Look for the Rams to play a lot of zone to help their corners in coverage with safety help over the top to eliminate a big play downfield.

Special Teams
Chiefs punt and kickoff returner Dante Hall always brings excitement to the game every week with his electric ability to break the long run at any given moment. Hall hits the seams quickly and is able to use the smaller size to slip past the first wave of would-be tacklers. The Rams must use directional punts to keep the ball out of the hands of Hall, who has the ability at any time to return a punt for a touchdown. The Rams have been struggling in the return game and are looking for a playmaker who can show he is a difference-maker. The Rams began the season with J.R. Reed, but he failed to show any outstanding return ability. Reed was later replaced by backup wide receiver Kevin Curtis, who had a critical fumble three weeks ago against the Seahawks. Shaun McDonald has also had a critical fumble, leaving the Rams with little confidence in their returners' ability.

Matchups
? Kansas City DE Tamba Hali vs. St. Louis OT Orlando Pace
? Kansas City RB Larry Johnson vs. St. Louis LB Will Witherspoon
? Kansas City CB Ty Law vs. St. Louis WR Torry Holt
? Kansas City LB Derrick Johnson vs. St. Louis RB Steven Jackson
? Kansas City OT Kyle Turley vs. St. Louis DE Leonard Little

Scouts' Edge
Both teams need to play mistake-free football. The Rams have been controlling the ball all year and must continue to do so with a heavy dose of Jackson as he continues to show his worth with screen plays out of the backfield and a steady dose of rushes between the tackles. The offensive line must continue to protect Bulger as he goes up against a very formidable secondary with All-Pro cornerbacks Ty Law and Sam Madison. The Chiefs must continue to get solid play from Huard, who has not been asked to win games, but rather not lose them. After having a career performance last week, completing 17 of 25 passes for 312 yards, Huard must not get too overconfident and play above his abilities. RB Johnson is still the key to success for the Chiefs, and ball security is of the utmost importance.

Prediction: Rams 27, Chiefs 24

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NFL - ESPN Insider Writeups, etc. 7 New Articles Added 11/6/06

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"

"Seven Days Without Gambling Makes One Weak"