Wishful Thinking: 5 Items on My Sports Xmas List January 2, 2009
Posted by Paul in : Uncategorized , add a commentIt’s that time of year again, where most make wishes of the coming year, or for what they would like to see under the Xmas tree. We thought it only appropriate to give you a few things we’d like to see happen in our little sports universe.
1) Memo to Roger Goodell: Please Adopt College Overtime Format. If you’ve listened to our Show with any degree of regularity over the past few years, you know that we’ve been clamoring for this, for a long time. Not only do you get a fairer shot for each competitor, as each team to touch the pigskin, but you get some of the same dramatic flavor that make soccer penalty kicks so thrilling at the end of tied matches. The one addendum we’d like to add? Have both teams start at the opponents’ 35 yard line. You give each team a tough field goal try at worst; and could even be out of range if they lose yardage on a sack, for example. The only issue now is: will the National Football League, who is prospering right now, take a hard look at this rule, and decide to imitate the amateur ranks? The Commissioner hasn’t hesitated to make the right moves in the past. Hopefully, he will follow suit, with this rule…
2) College Football Playoff: Hardly original, this one has been such a hot topic in sports, that it has even garnered a presidential intervention, with President-Elect Barack OBama telling us he’s willing to throw his weight around, when he reaches the White House, to accomplish the previously unthinkable: a playoff system that would actually have the winner decided on the field. The real travesty is that the college football has allowed opinion, conjecture, subjective analysis, and human error to enter into crowning a champion for years. Perhaps we can start hoping that this streak finally gets interrupted in the years to come…
3) Keep Brett Favre Around: By now, some might consider him an old relic. A historic artifact from an older time in football, where quarterback play was even better. He’s made the move from small town Green Bay to Media Capital New York, without a hitch, and has managed to revitalize a franchise that was starving for an identity and had fallen on mediocre times. Yes, the Jets have been up-and-down throughout the season, but can’t we say that they have never been this exciting? Anyone that dares tell me that the Jets would have been better off with Chad Pennington lacks credibility. We saw what he brought to the table is years past, and it was about as bland and mediocre as could be. We’d be singing a different tune to Brett’s season, if it were not for this torn bicep injury that we’re starting to learn about… Give him a true off-season to rest and train, and a full training camp with teammates, and my guess is you’ll see the good Brett that led them to an 8-3 start early on. Was Brett good for interest in the league? Don’t take it from me. Just ask CBS, as most of the year, they had their A-team of Nantz and Simms, on “Favre Watch”: constantly covering the games involving the elder statesman of quarterbacks. #4 was ratings gold and will continue to be, if he chooses to return next season. Let’s hope he continues to provide entertainment and magic to us all…
4) Put Your Faith in Coach Singletary: You’re handed an football organization in complete disarray at 2-5. The owners are not football savvy. They’ve showed a disinterest in even wanting to run the franchise. The quarterback position is far from settled. The defense is underachieving. The offensive coordinator is bent on passing despite not quite having the requisite arsenal. And you’re asked to replace your mentor. What happens next? You win 5 of 9. Your demeanor and motivational skills (with or without pants) are unquestioned. You’ve simplified previously complicated game plans and gotten the most out of your troops. The once-decrepit defense has now allowed fewer than 17 points in 5 out of the last 6 games. Your deep comprehension of your players has both had them play their best for you, and enabled you to make critical game decisions that have paid off handsomely. And still you hadn’t received an offer, going into Sunday’s finale against the ‘Skins. That’s what was facing Mike Singletary, as he embarked into the final game of the regular season. Until just a few days ago, Iron Mike was left to hang out in the ether, without a concrete contract showing him professional love. I implore you, York family, now that you’ve signed this man, who has done a great job in turning things around; please give him everything he needs to be successful. He’s shown he’s ready to take charge by making the tough decisions of dismissing Martz, and other less successful offensive coaches. He’s also shown he’s ready to fail doing things his way. And that’s a refreshing approach; following the fear-filled politicking and maneuvering constantly in place during Nolan’s tenure. Do you know how hard it is, to come in as an interim coach and help the Niners to their best record since they made the playoffs in 2002? Incredibly arduous… Give this man the keys to the car, and let him drive it for a while. Trust me, the man won’t drive it into a ditch, and certainly won’t ding it. It’s likely to come off his lot, as an appreciating asset, as opposed to that fixer-upper that was handed to him midway through the year…
5) Streamline ATP Calendar: Anyone that follows the sport week-in and week-out, and not exclusively at Grand Slam time, can clearly see that severe reform is needed, in order to preserve the health of its top players, and have them play their best at the biggest events. The rash of withdrawals at the end of the season (this year, both Nadal and Federer took the Masters Cup off, and while Roddick broke down with an injury during the event), for the last few years have sent the strong message: give these guys’ bodies a break. To the average fan, the sport is already too hard to follow, without a significant off-season. There’s no time to build an appetite for tennis. And on the biggest stages, at the biggest moments, a lot of times, all we’re left with is a steamroll, while handed two apparently evenly-matched competitors. Why? Because one of the two guys mentally or physically checks out, due to the tough conditions he puts himself under, week after week. Human bodies and minds are only meant to take so much grinding. If you want to preserve the marquee players, and have them play at their pinnacle at the end of big events, please make sure to trim the fat on the ATP schedule. After the Holidays, many of us will return to nearby gyms vowing the shave off a few pounds. The ATP should do the same, in early ‘09, if it wants to continue to grow its wonderful game…
5 Reasons Brett Favre Should Retire and the Jets Should Want Him To December 29, 2008
Posted by Neil in : Uncategorized , 1 comment so farUsually when the 49ers are playing a home game on a Sunday afternoon, I am relegated to watching Mike Singletary and Co. and am barred from all other NFL action during that time because I don’t have Sunday NFL Ticket. However, yesterday was a different story. Thanks to Roger and the brass at the NFL offices getting together with CBS and Fox for the good of the game, CBS was able to bring me the compelling final saga in the AFC East 3 horse race. Thus, instead of being subjected to a largely meaningless game between Jim Zorn’s Redskins and the possibly resurgent Niners, I was able to immerse myself in the Jets-Dolphins battle.
I have written a fantasy column each week for the past couple of seasons on Gang Green. I was so excited when the Jets traded for Brett Favre before this season, because I finally had something exciting to write about instead of trying to describe in 16 different fashions throughout the season how Chad Pennington dinked and dunked his way to statistical mediocrity. I have watched the Jets with keen interest all season, and have viewed a majority of their games in their entirety.
I am disgusted with how a team that was 8-3 after road victories in New England and Nashville absolutely imploded and finished 1-4 down the stretch to miss the playoffs. While a lot of blame has to go on Eric Mangini (who deserved to get fired due to his shaky gameday decision-making and lack of charisma) and the defense struggling in the last 5 weeks, I maintain that Brett Favre is the guy who led this team into the ground. While I could spend countless hours professing why Favre should retire, here is my brief summary of 5 reasons why #4 should hang them up for good, and the Jets should be happy for him to do so:
1. Brett Favre sucks!
If any other QB in the league besides Favre, a Manning brother, or Tom Brady put up putrid statistics like Favre did this season (and has for a few seasons now), there is no chance that he would be in the league. Favre gets a pass from the media and from teams because he is charismatic, was successful in the past, and makes for a good story. However, any football expert (or fan) will admit that Favre is the most erratic QB in the NFL over the past decade plus. He is as likely to throw an INT as a TD, and is one of the worst decision-makers at the position in the game. His physical ability has always compensated for his egregious carelessness and wanton disregard for practicality. Now that his physical tools are markedly diminished, his failure to make even adequate decisions as a signal caller have led him to being one of the worst starting QB’s in the league. 22 INT’s this year. 2 TD’s and 9 INT’s in the Jets 1-4 horrific finish.
2. The Jets have a better QB on their roster
While I could go on for paragraphs about the fact that the Jets gave away Chad Pennington who will probably finish in the top 3 in the MVP voting for a below average QB in Favre, I would be a hypocrite if I scalded Mike Tannenbaum for that move. At the time, it was the right thing to do. Pennington has been injured often, and nobody (even Bill Parcells in South Beach) could have predicted the type of season that Pennington would have. However, I honestly believe that Kellen Clemens right now is probably a better QB than Favre. At least, he won’t kill you like Favre has done in each of the past 5 games.
3. Turn the Page
Now that the Jets have made the correct decision in firing Mangini, it is time for them to move in a different direction. With Miami and New England (especially with Brady back) and an improving Buffalo squad, the Jets might be the fourth best team in the AFC East as currently constituted. This is the time to move up and draft a Matthew Stafford or another QB in round 2 and allow Clemens to develop as the starting QB until the heir apparent is ready (only if you assume Clemens may not be). The Jets blew their golden chance at a division title with Brady out for the season. This is the time to rebuild behind the solid offensive line and Thomas Jones and get a QB who will not make such horrible mistakes.
4. Other Attractive Options
Favre was the sexy move of the 2008 NFL season. It wasn’t the best move, just the most noteworthy at the time. Michael Turner in Atlanta and Pennington in Miami are still playing in January. Last year Favre was the cougar who was recently divored from his long time mate (Green Bay) that the Jets and others couldn’t take their eyes off of. Now that he has been exposed as a geriatric instead of a still potent feline, and his carcass has been passed around by NFL defenses all season, I don’t believe he will be attractive to any NFL team (even Detroit who will probably draft Sam Bradford). The Jets are in a huge market. If they want to make a splash and really help their team possibly get into the postseason in 2009 then you throw all the money in the world at Matt Cassell, Donovan McNabb, or orchestrate something for Carson Palmer.
5. Favre’s Legacy
With apologies to those who believe that all legends should be able to go out as they wish, I don’t want Favre to come back next season because every time I have watched him play the last couple of weeks I have lost a little more respect for the man that was one of my heroes. It may be selfish, but I want to remember Favre as the kid with braces in Green Bay, jumping for joy when winning the Super Bowl in ‘Nawlins, and gunslinging balls to Antonio Freeman and others at frigid Lambeau Field. Now, the first thing that comes to mind about Favre is terrible INT’s and his absurd indecision about whether to retire or not. Everyone I know (except my co-host) was completely put off by Favre’s selfishness in his dealings with the Packers last offseason. Everytime I saw Favre I wanted to yell at the guy, “Make a F’ing decision already.” With his diminished physical skills and inability to play conscientious football, I think Favre would be a disaster next season. He never got used to the Jets system and WR’s this season, and I seriously question whether he will put in the Peyton Manning like work that would be required for him this offseason to get on the same page with his teammates. Next year would likely be a continuation of the disaster that was seen in December this year.
I wish you the best Brett. You are one of the greatest of all time. It is time for you to hang them up, unless Bill Cowher wants to coach the Jets and team with you for one last shot of glory. Just an idea for those out there who wouldn’t mind that reunion. If that were the case, you could disregard everything I wrote as that would be to interesting to pass on.
Favre to Packers’ Brass: “How Do You Like Me Now?” December 6, 2008
Posted by Paul in : Uncategorized , 3comments
To those of you that have listened to the radio show for any length of time, you know how I feel about Brett Favre. Yes, I would qualify as having a man-crush on the guy. Not only does he have a rocket arm, a youthful exuberance that won’t go away, and gun-slinging attitude. But he’s soulful, simple, humble, zen-like almost. And he’s got that Agassi-like capacity to connect with everyone. Do I own a pair of Wranglers? Not yet! But don’t put it past me to change my current jeans allegiances…
When we first went through the summer-long melodrama involving Brett and the Packers, I was leading the pack (note the lack of capitalization) in vehemently defending the Hall of Fame quarterback. Yes, he was undecided on his future. But, in my opinion, he had earned the right to come back at any time. Not only that, but I continued to believe–like some football pundits–that he was the better football option for the Packers under center, for the present. And in a “Win Now” league, Favre was the incumbent meriting re-election by management.
Fast-forward a few weeks, past the mid-way portion of the season. The other night, the Jets and Patriots face off at The Razor in a huge Thursday night match-up with the AFC East lead at stake. In a great contest, Favre shows that he’s capable to play careful football. I’m not calling it “cautious”, but “careful”. No hugely dangerous throws. No unnecessary chances taken. He didn’t simply “manage the game”. In a big-game, Favre understood the situation, took what the defense gave him, orchestrated a game winning drive, and made the big plays when his team needed him to do so…
And you thought there would be no encores. The Jets would certainly be sent packing, by the bruising Titans in Nashville. Tennessee was undefeated, after all. With their physical two-pronged running attack, and equally imposing rush defense, there was no way that the Jets could even dream of stopping the freight train that had built up such a head of steam. This is where Chris Berman inserts, “That’s why they play the games”. Not only did the Jets bring the Tennessee Express to a screeching halt, but they were able to bring the Titans down from the ranks of the undefeated. Two huge back-to-back statements on the road had this team flying high…
As of today, Green Bay stands at 5-7; trailing their Nordic counterparts and the Monster of the Midway by 2 and 1 games respectively. They’ve lost 2 straight games, and find themselves in a dogfight to even make the playoffs. And it doesn’t take a NFL prognosticator, or rocket scientist to tell you that the wild card teams from the NFC will most likely not come from the North. The South and East divisions have stronger candidates at this point in the race. Aaron Rodgers may have just inked a new long-term deal, but he hasn’t been able to come even close to replicating the success that Favre brought to the Pack last season.
By contrast, the J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets now stand at 8-4 atop the AFC East, and are brimming with confidence, having won 5 out of their last 6. You add to that the boost they from winning on that Thursday night against the perennial team of the past few years, and from knocking off the AFC’s best in the Music City, and there’s reason to celebrate in New York. The Big Apple may well be a baseball town by nature, but the talk of the won has to be football, and most notably the Jets. No team, in recent memory, has had more benefit from the arrival of a star quarterback.
Here’s what he’s bringing to the table:
1) Moxie/Confidence: Anybody that watched the game last night could see that Favre brought an additional swagger sorely missing from the Jets in the past. In such a huge game on the road, a quarterback of his caliber was all New York needed to put them over the top. Much like a point guard on the basketball court, a quarterback’s job is to make his teammates better. Favre, by his very attitude, confidence adds to his teammates’ confidence level. Each player knows that if they complete their jobs, their signal-caller will be there to make the winning plays, in the clutch.
2) Credibility: Fireman Ed could tell you that spending the last few years cheering for the J-E-T-S had been a little rough. Under Eric Mangini, New York is a combined 22-22, with only 1 playoff appearance in 3 years at the helm. Not to mention, he’s a young guy; re-becoming the youngest coach in the NFL, when Lane Kiffin got removed from his post in Oakland. He’s actually more junior than his starting quarterback Brett Favre; who just turned 39 in October. Granted Mangini won AFC Coach of the Year, after he took the Jets into the playoffs, in his first season. But anybody will tell you that age, experience, and track record matter in getting you credibility in front of your players. Getting an elder statesman with the war scars and triumphs that Favre has, can only help a club in building up its own credibility, when picking a direction and executing on it. For a franchise that has always played second-fiddle to their Meadowlands co-habitants in New York, the Jets instantly put themselves on the NFL map, with the acquisition of #4.
3) Excitement: Chad Pennington, under center, was blue collar, workmanlike, and was going to middle-manage the game for you. He certainly wasn’t a rock star CEO, but could deliver you some solid victories given a decent running game, as he is now showing us in South Beach with the Dolphins. But for anyone to tell me that he made quarterbacking exciting is an outright lie. Pennington, under center, is bland; the Gerber baby food of QBs. Favre, conversely, is the salsa picante; equally able of threading the needle with a strike between defenders 25 yards down the field, and throwing it up for grabs for receiver and defensive backs alike. But he delivers thrills, and more often than not, victories.
4) Identity: Can you say Rich Kotite? A failed experiment with the now-prosperous, vibrant, collegiate Pete Carroll. The public embarrassment spawned by the last-minute resignation of Belichick. The Jets have been marred by histrionics at the top of their organization. If the head coach is supposed to be face of the organization (as Mike Nolan had no trouble reminding us when McCloughan was promoted to GM of the 49ers), then the Jets must feel like an invitee to a masquerade ball. Or better yet, John Travolta or Nick (Coppola) Cage in “Face Off”; switching identities like most of us change our pants. With Brett, you’re getting a confident southern boy, who knows who he is… He’s not afraid to tell you what he thinks, and he knows how to let it all hang out. He’s a calming and stabilizing influence in the huddle. Where others may have panicked, Brett is more likely to tell a joke, to generate some laughter, and keep everyone loose…
All of this to say: if one were to ask me what my religious beliefs were, I would most probably answer along the lines of what my Facebook profile states on that issue: “Think [George] Carlin/ [Bill] Maher”. But if there’s one thing that might have me believe in Pigskin Gods, this turn of events may well do it. Brett Favre, once brutally shunned by a team that had him for done, reemerges in the media capital of the world, and ignites a franchise that had fallen on mediocre times. Most often, when star athletes have left their long-term homes, they were on the down slopes of their careers, and were delusional on their abilities to write good latter chapters to their legacy. But once again, the gun-slinging maverick from Mississippi bucks the trend and surprises us all… Thank you, Brett.
Em”Burress”ing Behavior December 1, 2008
Posted by Neil in : Uncategorized , 1 comment so farI am so proud that the New York Giants have been my favorite team since growing up as a child on Long Island in the 1980’s. They were never a dominating franchise like the 49ers of the 80’s and 90’s, the Cowboys of the 90’s, or the Patriots of the 00’s, but they have usually produced a very solid team in most years that provided a competitive football product well into late December if not January.
They produced tough hard-nosed football under Bill Parcells in the late 80’s with Lawrence Taylor, Carl Banks, Gary Reasons and Co. leading one of the toughest defenses in the NFC. Phil Simms led them to a dominating Super Bowl triumph over John Elway in the Rose Bowl, and when Simms went down in 1990, Jeff Hostetler and OJ Anderson led the Giants to the most dramatic Super Bowl win in history (that is until the Giants recent triumph in Glendale) over the Bills when Scott Norwood missed wide right.
My devotion and passion for Big Blue continued even when the Giants suffered through some leaner years after Parcells moved on. I endured the days of subpar seasons in the late 90’s with occasional unspectacular playoff appearances sprinkled in. Kerry Collins led the Giants to the Super Bowl in the early part of this decade, but the G-Men were obviously outclassed and dominated by Ray Lewis and the Ravens defense.
While I have always been proud of my hometown team, I have been able to carry a little extra swagger over the past year or so. Tom Coughlin looked like he was going to get fired at this point last season, but that is when Eli Manning’s legacy and Giants football changed forever. The Giants were an afterthought entering December last year, and now they enter December 2008 as undoubtedly the best team in the NFC and most pundits would agree that the defending champs are the class of the entire NFL. While certainly a second straight Vince Lombardi (or even a trip to Tampa) is far from a sure thing, the Giants are poised to repeat.
While this should be the proudest moment in Giants history, sitting here on December 1, 2008 as the defending champion and 11-1 for the first time in franchise history, the only thing being bantered about is Plaxico Burress (or Harris Smith, which is the fake name he checked into the hospital as). While surely Burress is one of the top 10 WR’s in the game when mentally available, he is not worth the distraction and issues he has caused and continues to burden Giants management with, espcially since he signed a 5 year, $35 million dollar contract extension just hours before this season began.
The Giants 2008 season has been amazing. It is not a complete shock that they are 11-1, but with the brutal schedule they have played of late it is certainly incredible that they have won 7 straight. The truly impressive thing is that they have achieved such lofty heights without many of their starring cast from last season’s road warriors. Gone are Michael Strahan and Osi to retirement and injury. They still have that fearsome pass rush, but it is Tuck and Co. leading the charge instead.
Plaxico has been a distraction since he arrived from Pittsburgh. There are reports that he has been fined dozens of times by the Giants over the past couple of years. He was suspended for the Seattle game this year, and it appears that he will miss the rest of the season. His 35 catches for 454 yards and 4 TD’s as well as the double teams he draws freeing the rest of the Giants offensive arsenal just isn’t worth putting up with his childish behavior.
This team will miss him. He is Eli’s security blanket. While the Giants will continue to succeed because they have the best O-line in the NFL and one of the best D-lines, losing their best playmaker will hurt. They still have an amazing quartet of RB’s and adequate replacements at WR such as Hixon, but they are losing their top offensive talent not named Eli or Brandon. The Giants don’t win the Super Bowl if Plax wasn’t there last year. He had huge catches in the playoffs including the Super Bowl winning catch against New England.
While I want the Giants to repeat more than anyone, I want to remain a proud fan of Big Blue. While getting rid of Burress may limit the Giants chances of repeating, I think they must cut all ties with him as sson as possible. The Giants are the best organization in the NFL right now. They are the class of the league. They must act accordingly and end their relationship with a talented player who has likely ended his career by literally shooting himself in the foot (or leg).
4 Things To Be Thankful For, in the Sports World November 28, 2008
Posted by Paul in : Uncategorized , 2commentsOn a short hiatus from stuffing myself with foul, I thought it perhaps most appropriate to look back and ponder what I’m thankful for, in my small sports universe.
1) Dick Ebersol: TV executives rarely get a lot of ink or praise, when it comes to our sports universe. We’re usually instead quick to write prose on head coaches, quarterbacks, diva wide receivers, or top sluggers. We’ve all realized for decades now, how powerful a medium television can be… Political candidates have won or lost elections on certain key speeches, or debates because they were televised, and reached a large audience immediately. Most of us remember certain significant news events, from “living” them through the boob tube. But we’re just scratching the surface when it comes to understanding the power of television, when consuming our sports. Dick Ebersol, head of NBC Sports, is one of the shrewdest men in TV. He has latched on to the belief that the NFL has been peddling its broadcast partners for a while now: the National Football League–now more than ever–is a TV show. Following that axiom to the “T”, he has done an incredible job in building the most pristine prime time football package, we’ve ever seen. At 30-Rock, he’s managed to reunite the duo from “The Big Show”: Dan Patrick after his recent departure from the Worldwide Leader, and Keith Olbermann, who has single-handedly taken up the liberal cause on MSNBC. Cris Collinsworth, a top NFL analyst, breaks down the happenings from their cushy New York studios. SI’s Peter King, one of the top three information men in the National Football League, is constantly getting calls from the top protagonists in pro football, as they simmer down from the day’s contest. And let’s not forget the legendary Robert Costas, who presides over these broadcasting festivities. Al Michaels and John Madden–two of the best in the business–call the action on the field. You sprinkle in the showbiz flair and broad appeal of having Faith Hill introduce the proceedings, the experienced interview savvy of Andrea Kramer on the sidelines, and a gravitas-inducing jingle/bumper–taking us to-and-from commercial breaks, and you’ve got yourself one of the most polished and best produced sports programs I’ve ever seen.
2) HD Television: the goose bumps on a pitcher’s neck, as he attempts to close out a high-pressure complete game. The spin of a heavy topspin forehand dipping just inches inside the baseline. The sweat droplets accumulating on a defensive lineman’s brow, as he looks on as his offense on the field, after a particularly rough defensive series. All things that were once almost either not noticeable or barely so, now are fully visible to the naked eye, thanks to high-definition television. You add the new sky cams, better access, new graphics, and other assorted special effects, and you suddenly realize that a lot of sports are better consumed from the warmth of your living room, than the raucous atmosphere of a stadium near you. The next frontier, you ask? Your sports in 3-D. The NFL recently announced that it would be presenting next Thursday’s game in 3-D theaters for select cities. Can you imagine Jevon Kearse coming at you, in 3-D? Bring your eye black, and jock strap…or perhaps a change of clothes if you happen to soil yourself.
3) Al Davis: as a member of the Faithful since my early childhood and sports talk show host, the former Raider coach and present owner never disappoints in giving us things to mull over and talk about. His recent projector press conference, where he was adamant about proving that his former coach Lane Kiffin had been dismissed “for cause”, in the court of public opinion, made for great drama, and good grease for the sports talk mill. His mixture of continued ineptitude, warped sense of reality, enormous ego, and undying charisma make him one of the most compelling figures in sports, and his franchise a consistent underachiever. Because of his stranglehold on his organization, his inability to get along with any coach he brings in, and his delusional self-belief, the Raiders will most certainly remain the laughing stock of the NFL until their leader either steps away or expires. Consider the latter option as most probable…
4) Brett Favre in the World’s Media Capital: move over Broadway Joe, a new gun-slinging sheriff is in town. He wears #4, and is about to lead his team into the playoffs by winning the AFC East. Having him pull this off, in the microscope of the Big Apple only amplifies the effect he’s had on his squad. While the football happenings occurring in Green Bay may be crucial to the state of Wisconsin, what transpires in New York is important to the rest of the world. Moving out from the small-town feel of Title Town to the most overexposed city on the globe only helps in further building Favre’s legacy by globalizing his brand. Now with the Jets’ Meadowlands co-habitants poised to defend their title, it has most people asking: could we be in for an all-New York SuperBowl?
Fulmer Out As Tennessee Head Coach November 3, 2008
Posted by Paul in : Uncategorized , 2comments(We’ve often missed out on the opportunity to publish some of our backstage email conversations, despite them being pretty good. This is our attempt at making up for this trend. After all, our Show was founded when Neil and I came to the realization that we should be sharing our late night phone conversations with the rest of the world.)
These are excerpts from emails back-and-forth between Neil and I, as we were reacting to the news that Fulmer had been asked to step down as the Vols coach, after this season. Here’s the story, from the Worldwide Leader, as background to our exchange: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3679810
As additional background, Tennessee is my adoptive college team, as I didn’t go to a big football school (to say the least), in UCSD, and was drawn into them by longtime friend, mentor, and frequent YSNC contributor Volunteer Mike Richards, who was good enough to take me to a game at Neyland Stadium a few years back…
Neil starts by responding to the story I sent his way:
“Both Mike’s and my alma mater have had their coaches forced to “step down” this season. With all the great coaches and teams in the SEC, it could be a long time before we hear “Rocky Top” played in an SEC Championship Game or BCS Bowl.”
To which I replied:
“Yeah, but wouldn’t you think that they can attract another big name, to follow Fulmer?
The university is still a huge name in football, as was seen by their overestimated pre-season rankings (in the top 20).”
I knew I was going to get a decent response, when prodding my Co-Host, but I didn’t know we were going to get into such granular and in-depth detail when it came to recruiting ins-and-outs, ebbs-and-flows, pipelines-and-faucets ;)…
But here’s Neil’s intelligent dissection:
“While it is still a big name, their recruiting has taken a huge hit in recent years with the emergence of Florida under Urban Meyer, South Carolina under Steve Spurrier, LSU under Les Miles, Auburn under Tommy Tuberville, Georgia under Mark Richt, and most importantly perhaps the re-emergence of Alabama under Nick Saban. Also, Vanderbilt in the Vols’ own state is better then them right now.
Tennessee is not a hotbed of high school football. It doesn’t produce enough talent per year to feed even one decent Division I team. The Vols have had the ability throughout their history to go out-of-state and recruit some of the best from around the country, especially plucking out players from other SEC states and the occasional skill position player from Texas or Southern California. With the great coaching and resulting play from the other SEC schools, top-tier Southern boys from other states realize that they don’t need to wear Orange and White to play for National Championships and are staying in-state.
Further, with the dominant ability of Pete Carroll to keep LA skill position players at home, and I predict Slick Rick will pick up all of the leftovers in So Cal, the Vols aren’t getting some of the So Cal studs they used to get all of the time to play QB and other high-profile positions. There also used to be a pipeline from Northern California (especially De La Salle) to Knoxville, but that faucet has been shut off by Jeff Tedford at Cal.
In addition, while Texas always produces a suplus of talent, those players not matriculating to Austin to play for Mack Brown and the “Horns are going to play in Lubbock for Texas Tech, and I am sure that Texas A&M will also turn things around in short turn.
The landscape has changed so much, that I have a hard time believing that consistent 10+ win seasons and major bowl berths are once again going be a consistent result for Volunteer Mike and Co. Thus, big name coaches may not be too attracted by the position, and even if one does come he may struggle to fulfill the elevated expectations that have been created for those who inhabit Neyland Stadium by the success of past regimes.”
Hope you enjoyed the dialog…and we certainly invite you to join in…
A Stampede in Buffalo over Gang Green October 30, 2008
Posted by Neil in : Uncategorized , add a comment[Quick syndication note: this is the next in a series of weekly installments that I’m contributing to Fantasy Insights, throughout the NFL Season. A big thank you to Shawn McCullough for allowing us to syndicate to our site.]
Last Week:
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What an ugly win, but a big win. The Jets kept their playoff hopes alive with a comeback 28-24 win over the Chiefs at the Meadowlands on Sunday. Brett Favre certainly didn’t play well again with a lot of costly mistakes, but had that 4th quarter magic once again. The Jets are now just one game back at 4-3 in the AFC East.
This Week:
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The Jets take on the Bills this Sunday in Orchard Park. If the Jets have any designs on winning the AFC East this season, they need a big road victory over Trent Edwards and Co. The Bills have been tough at home this year and seem to always find a way to win when playing in upstate New York. However, they always let teams hang around and almost lost to the Raiders at home in September. I predict the Jets fall to 4-4 with a 27-24 loss, as they just aren’t playing well enough to win a big-time road game right now.
Rumors:
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The Jets need this game if they want to win the division.
Injuries:
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WR Coles was a limited participant at practice Thursday with a thigh injury. I expect Coles to play as he is a warrior. WR Jerricho Cotchery was a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice with a shoulder injury. I expect him to play on Sunday. K Mike Nugent will probably be out again this week due to his thigh injury. Expect Jay Feely again. TE Chris Baker was listed as a limited participant at Wednesday’s practice with a hip injury. I expect him toplay, but you shouldn’t play him. TE Bubba Franks has a hip injury and missed Wednesday’s practice. He is out.
Position Analysis:
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QUARTERBACKS: Favre was pretty bad again against Kansas City, except for the magic he provided at the end of the game. He was only 28 of 40 for 290 yards with 2 TD’s and 3 INT’s. I think Favre will struggle again this Sunday and will continue to turn the ball over against the Bills. I predict 225 yards and 1 TD with 3 picks.
RUNNING BACKS: Thomas Jones had a subpar game against the Chiefs. He carried the ball only 14 times for 54 yards. Expect 75 yards from Jones against the Bills. Leon Washington was the man against the Chiefs. He carried the ball 3 times for 67 yards against the Chiefs with a TD and caught 3 balls for 34 yards with a TD. He could have some big plays in the screen game this week, but I wouldn’t use him.
WIDE RECEIVERS: The Jets WR cast had a pretty good day against Kansas City. Coles snared 7 balls for 64 yards and the game-winning TD. I think he will have 75 yards in Bills. Jerricho Cotchery had a wonderful game with 9 catches for 102 yards. He will have over 80 yards receiving against the Bills. Chansi Stuckey caught 3 balls for 43 yards against the Chiefs. I wouldn’t consider playing him with Coles and Cotchery getting healthy.
TIGHT ENDS: Dustin Keller caught 4 balls for 38 yards against the Chiefs and was the only TE who caught a ball all day. I wouldn’t play any of these guys right now, but Keller will become Favre’s favorite TE by the end of the season.
PLACE KICKER: Jay Feely was 0 of 1 on FG’s against the Chiefs, and also made 4 PAT’s.
DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS: The Jets defense has played fairly well this year, besides the debacle in San Diego. However, don’t play them this week in Buffalo.
A New Iron Mike Resides in San Francisco October 28, 2008
Posted by Paul in : Uncategorized , 6comments
No, no, the former heavyweight champ who wants to eat your children hasn’t purchased a new home in the Bay Area. And no, Mike Ditka hasn’t decide to leave his cushy television job in Bristol Connecticut for the West Coast. The talk of the town, here in San Francisco, and even nationally is the electrifying rant delivered to the media by Mike Singletary after yesterday’s game against the Seahawks. To those of you that have been under a rock for the past 24 hours, I will fill you in briefly. After a mindless unnecessary roughness penalty by 49ers tight-end Vernon Davis late in the 3rd quarter, and some jawing back and forth, between the player and his new coach, Singletary proceeded to dismiss the overrated soldier to the locker room. He then took the press conference pulpit and told us that he would do whatever it took to win, in the most memorable head coach tirade, in recent 49ers history…
To those of you that are appalled by his post-game reaction, you need to get a clue. And here’s why:
1) Emotion Needed in a Dismal Season: in sharp contrast to a droopy-headed, disconsolate Mike Nolan, the new 49ers head coach has declared himself in charge. Singletary was standing by on the sidelines, and witnessed that his mentor’s methods were not working on this team. The players had tuned Coach Nolan out, and had moved on for quite some time, while the former coach was trying to remind everyone that he was still the face and voice of the franchise. Instead of having a coach on the sidelines with a deer-in the-headlights look, yesterday’s emotionally charged outburst was Singletary’s call out to his troops; reminding them to wake up, pull up their sleeves, and get to work.
2) Taking the Reigns: if we are to look back several years from now, at a successful run from Singletary as head coach, this will be the seminal moment we all point to, as the moment he took command of his squad. For a franchise that has been known for lackluster leadership from ownership down in the past few years, it’s refreshing to see a man already starting to make an imprint on the team, in the nascent stages of his regime. Mike Nolan had a reputation for being soft. It seems like Singletary took note of the failures of those ways, and has vowed to approach his players in a much different way. Can we take the time to smell the roses and appreciate a coach who is sharp enough to make a diagnosis, and bold enough to try something new?
3) Setting the Ground Rules: Every coach in the NFL has rules. Most head football coaches have overlapping ones. They will preach ball security, discipline, holding your rushing lanes, finishing your tackles… And then, you’ll get to the gray areas; the true philosophical differences between these generals of the game of football. Some guys believe in ball control. Others (like Mike Martz) will convince you that getting yards through the air is the best way. Some coaches believe in giving their players some freedom, while another faction–the likes of Parcells–are true disciplinarians. Yesterday, Mike Singletary started to establish his own rule book. Iron Mike is an old school guy, who understands the psychology of a football player. In an era where we hear so many people tell us that professional sports is about treating players with kit gloves, the former linebacker threw that so-called wisdom right out of the window. Don’t fool yourself: this is a calculated move from a Hall of Fame former Chicago Bear, who wants to build from the ground up. Right now, he realizes he needs to set a few axioms from which to live by. The first ones he is nailing down, for now, are accountability and the overall team concept. No one will act selfishly, and put their interests above that of the team. And each player will have the feeling that he must fulfill his role to the best of his ability, in order to affect the final outcome.
4) No Downside in Alienating Davis: What’s the downside with instructing Vernon Davis to take an early shower? The guy has underachieved his whole career with San Francisco, since coming out of Maryland. What’s the worse that can happen? You lose him forever? He decides to shut himself off from his head coach? It’s not like he’s lighting up the league, like his counterparts in Kansas City (Tony Gonzalez) and San Diego (Antonio Gates). In two and a half seasons with the Niners, Davis has 88 receptions for 970 yards and 7 TDs. In other words, he’s been largely irrelevant throughout; so there’s no real downside in losing him for all of eternity… This latest jilt–in making him an example–could perhaps have the effect of jolting him into becoming a respectable NFL player. Because, as I’ve said in the past, if Vernon were to bare down and dial in on his football pursuits the way he does on his photogenic ones, San Francisco may well be blessed with the second coming of Brent Jones.
5) Credibility is Key: One of the reasons why Mike Singletary was selected as interim head coach over a more experienced Mike Martz is because of his credibility inside Stalag 49. The players look up to him and respect him for his accomplishment in his playing days, no question. But he’s done nothing, as a coach to erode the edifice he had built then. Much to the contrary… He’s well respected by 49er brass, and was leaning on that reputation, yesterday, when making his point clear. Let’s all remember what Nolan reportedly told Singletary in urging him to take the reigns as interim head coach. Nolan told his protege that he knew that he had the best interests of his players at hand. There’s nothing in the past, or even now that suggests otherwise. And from his body language and general reputation, I can honestly say that I’d want to play for the guy. In a split second, I’d want to run through a brick wall, for the man. Singletary is no doubt tough, but you get the sense that he’s tremendously fair. He’s perhaps the perfect example of parenting: rewarding, nurturing, passionate, honest, and non-compromising on his principles…
Let’s make sure that we all understand the context around what transpired on Sunday afternoon. The Forty-Niners were embarrassed at home by an injury-plagued, dreadful Seahawk team, with Seneca Wallace under center. Just two years ago, the Red and Gold finished the year at 7-9. Now, they sit as one of the league’s most awful teams at 2-6. Can you blame a new coach for wanting to shake things up, as he attempts to right a sinking ship? Those that blame this good man should be ashamed of themselves. Look at the hand he’s dealt and let me know if you’d have the guts and the courage to do what he’s doing. Let’s face it: Mike Singletary is the NFL’s equivalent of a turnaround CEO. He’s inherited a business that is in the red. Let’s root for him, as he attempts to bring this once-proud franchise back in the black…
A Mauling of the Chiefs October 22, 2008
Posted by Neil in : Uncategorized , add a comment[Quick syndication note: this is the next in a series of weekly installments that I’m contributing to Fantasy Insights, throughout the NFL Season. A big thank you to Shawn McCullough for allowing us to syndicate to our site.]
Last Week:
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What an ugly loss! The Jets playoff hopes took a huge hit with their disappointing OT loss to a fairly woeful Raiders team. The Jets defense played well against a sputtering Raiders offense, however Brett Favre and the passing game let Gang Green down. Favre rallied the Jets to a game-tying Jay Feely FG, however they missed plenty of opportunities in OT, especially Chris Baker’s slip which could have set up the game-winning FG. The Jets fell to 3-3 and 2 games back of the surging Bills in the AFC East.
This Week:
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The Jets take on the Chiefs this Sunday at the Meadowlands. This game is about as must-win as you can have in October. The Chiefs are an awful football team with one win on the season. Brodie Croyle is out for the season, Damon Huard is hurt, and the Chiefs offense will likely be without Lary Johnson again this week due to his legal issues. The Chiefs defense is certainly nothing to write home about either. The Jets must assert their dominance over this languishing team early and put them away. I predict the Jets to move to 4-3 with a 31-17 victory over the punchless Chiefs.
Rumors:
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If Brett Favre actually proactively called the Lions to give them tips on how to beat the Packers, I have lost all respect for Favre as a man. However, I still love to watch the guy play on Sundays.
Injuries:
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WR Coles didn’t practice Wednesday with a thigh injury and possible concussion. I expect Coles to play, but there is an outside chance he won’t. WR Jerricho Cotchery was a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice with a shoulder injury. He also has a leg problem. I expect him to play on Sunday. K Mike Nugent will probably be out again this week due to his thigh injury. Expect Jay Feely again. TE Bubba Franks has a hip injury and missed Wednesday’s practice. He is listed as questionable. Even if he plays on Sunday, you better not have him on your roster, much less starting.
Position Analysis:
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QUARTERBACKS: Favre was pretty awful in Oakland. He was only 21 of 38 for 197 yards with 0 TD’s and 2 INT’s. The Jets passing game cost the team this game. Favre could play terrible again on Sunday, but the Jets will still win. However, I think Favre will have a nice bounceback game with a big first half. With a big second half lead, they will turn the game over to Thomas Jones and Co. I predict 225 yards and 2 TD’s with a pick.
RUNNING BACKS: Thomas Jones had a fantastic game against the Raiders. He carried the ball 24 times for 159 yards. Expect 85 yards from Jones with a TD against the Chiefs. Leon Washington is so intriguing, but continues to get infrequent touches. He carried the ball 3 times for 19 yards against the Raiders with a TD and caught 3 balls for 21 yards. These numbers are becoming standard for him. He could have some big plays in the screen game this week, but I wouldn’t use him.
WIDE RECEIVERS: The Jets WR cast had a terrible day in Oakland. Coles snared 4 balls for 51 yards. I expect bigger things from him this week, if he actually plays. I think he will have 105 yards, and will catch a TD. Jerricho Cotchery caught only 1 ball for 0 yards and was a complete fantasy bust last week. If he plays, he will have over 80 yards receiving against the Chiefs. Chansi Stuckey caught 2 balls for 48 yards in Oakland. With the injuries to Coles and Cotchery, he is not a horrible #3 WR on your fantasy team.
TIGHT ENDS: Chris Baker caught 5 ball for 42 yards against the Raiders in the 1st quarter. He didn’t catch a ball the rest of the day. I wouldn’t play any of these guys right now, but Keller will become Favre’s favorite TE by the end of the season.
PLACE KICKER: Jay Feely was 2 of 2 on FG’s against the Raiders, and also made a PAT. His clutch 52 yard FG got the Jets into OT. It is not likely that Mike Nugent will be coming back this Sunday.
DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS: The Jets defense has played fairly well this year, besides the debacle in San Diego. If you are going to play them since your regular team is on a bye, this would be the week. The Chiefs are terrible and are prone to turnovers.
Silver and Black (and Blue) on Sunday for Al Davis October 16, 2008
Posted by Neil in : Uncategorized , add a comment[Quick syndication note: this is the next in a series of weekly installments that I’m contributing to Fantasy Insights, throughout the NFL Season. A big thank you to Shawn McCullough for allowing us to syndicate to our site.]
Last Week:
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The Jets did what they had to do in a workmanlike win over the hapless Bengals last Sunday at the Meadowlands. The Jets moved to 3-2 with a 26-14 win over a Carson Palmer-less squad still looking for its first win. The game went as expected for the most part with Gang Green controlling the game for much of the afternoon. It was the type of solid victory that the Jets must have over an inferior opponent if they hope to reach the postseason.
This Week:
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The Jets take on the Raiders this Sunday in Oakland. The Raiders are the NFL’s team of turmoil, with Tom Cable taking over for the fired Lane Kiffin. It has been a circus in Oakland all season as the talent for a decent team is there, but they have no cohesion and chemistry. JaMarcus Russell continues to improve, but doesn’t have many attractive targets. The Raiders can run the ball behind an impressive group of backs that includes rookie Darren McFaddon and Michael Bush. However, I think Brett Favre will make the Raiders defense look silly as they are prone to the big play. I predict the Jets to move to 4-2 with a 31-17 road victory in Oaktown.
Rumors:
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It is not a rumor, but a prediction. The Jets will beat the AFC West doormats (Raiders and Chiefs) over the next 2 weeks and move to 5-2 before a first place showdown at Buffalo on November 2.
Injuries:
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WR Coles was listed as a limited participant Wednesday at practice with a thigh injury. This has been the case every week of the season, and Coles will play. K Mike Nugent might be back this week from his thigh injury, but I wouldn’t count on him. Expect Jay Feely again.
Position Analysis:
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QUARTERBACKS: Favre was average against the Bengals. However, with the Jets running game going, average was more than enough. He was 25 of 33 for 189 yards with the 1 TD and 2 INT’s. I think he will put up at least 2 or 3 TD’s this week against a bad Raiders secondary. I predict 225 yards and 2 TD’s.
RUNNING BACKS: Thomas Jones had a great fantasy game against the Bengals. He carried the ball only 17 times for 65 yards and had 3 catches for 13 yards. However, he carried the ball into the endzone twice, and had a receiving TD as well. Expect 85 yards from Jones with a TD in Oakland. Leon Washington is so intriguing, but continues to get infrequent touches. He carried the ball 5 times for only 7 yards against the Bengals and caught 4 balls for 22 yards. These numbers are becoming standard for him. He could have some big plays in the screen game this week, but I wouldn’t use him.
WIDE RECEIVERS: Coles had another solid day with Favre, snaring 8 balls for 61 yards. I expect big things from him the rest of the season. If you have him, you must play him this week. I think he have 105 yards, and will catch a TD. Jerricho Cotchery caught 8 balls for 85 yards to lead the Jets against the Bengals. Expect almost identical numbers this week. Chansi Stuckey didn’t catch a ball against the Bengals. As Favre becomes more comfortable with Coles and Cotchery, Stuckey’s won’t continue the TD per week production he had for the first 3 games. However, he is not a horrible #3 WR on your fantasy team.
TIGHT ENDS: Chris Baker caught 1 ball for 6 yards against the Bengals. That was the only reception from the Jets trio of TE’s. I wouldn’t play any of these guys right now, but Keller will become Favre’s favorite TE by the end of the season.
PLACE KICKER: Jay Feely was 2 of 2 on FG’s against the Bengals, and also made 2PAT’s. It is not likely that Mike Nugent will be coming back this Sunday.
DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS: The Jets defense has played fairly well this year, besides the debacle in San Diego. If you are going to play them since your regular team is on a bye, this would be the week. The Raiders are prone to turnovers.
