ANOTHER CLEMENS COULD SHINE IN GOTHAM
By Bryan Palmese, 4th & Goal
Quarterback controversy isn’t the word, but one could be brewing on the horizon in New York. Far too often, when a starting quarterback struggles or suffers a setback, people rush to usher in his replacement. After last weeks’ impressive start for sophomore signal caller Kellen Clemens, could the end be near for veteran Chad Pennington? Some would say not so fast, yet others that watched the Jets versus Ravens game last Sunday want Clemens under center for the Gang Green.
Let’s look at the current starter, Chad Pennington. The man just gets the job done and is a pure leader. His 65.2 completion percentage ranks second all-time (after Kurt Warner) and makes up for his inability to throw the long ball. The Jets offense has its roots in the West Coast Offense and relies on lots of quick hitters and check-downs. An intelligent quarterback is crucial to running this offense and this is where Pennington shines. His quarterback IQ is top notch and he knows what it takes to win games by utilizing his incredible leadership skills--- when he’s healthy. Since being named the starter in 2002, Pennington’s season has been halted by injury twice. When healthy, he has led the Jets to the playoffs all three seasons.
Kellen Clemens is the lesser known entity right now, but had a solid game in his first career start last week. He was the Jets second round pick in 2006 and had it not been for an injury in his last season at the University of Oregon, could’ve been a first round pick. He has everything you look for in a successful quarterback. He has a cannon for an arm and the accuracy to go along with it. He’s very conscious of situations on the field and makes great decisions of where to deliver the ball. He’s mobile in the sense that Brett Favre is. He can elude defenders, roll out and re-position himself to make the throw when the pocket collapses. Clemens’ scrambling keeps defenses honest and he knows when the proper time is to tuck the ball and gain ground on his own. Anyone that watched the Ravens game saw his ability to get his passes into tight windows that only his receivers can get to. His arm strength allowed the Jets to go downfield more and stretch the defense out. Normally, defenses would stack seven in the box and press the receivers at the line expecting the short passes. In addition, he made throws against one of the top defenses in the league and put his team in position to tie the game in the fourth quarter. His two-minute offensive drive on the road at the end of the game showed the poise that the 24-year old has. Standing at 6’2’’, some may question Clemens’ size, but you can look at quarterbacks like Drew Brees, Donovan McNabb and Brett Favre and squash that concern.
As great as intangibles and ceilings for player potential is, nothing is better than experience. Pennington has a lot of it and has succeeded on big stages before. He’s got great chemistry with wide receiver Laveranues Coles that dates back to Coles’ first tour of duty with the Jets before he was traded to Washington. Skeptics of Pennington always point out the weak arm that he has and how a quarterback that can’t air it out downfield can only take you so far. This is understandable and frustrating for fans. In addition to this weak arm, there are the injuries that have plagued Pennington. The injuries have been to his hand and shoulder which only adds fuel to the fire about his arm strength.
Clemens did play on a rather large collegiate stage at the University of Oregon. They were ranked and had success with Clemens at the helm. He guided them to an 8-1 start and in the thick of the BCS pack until an ankle injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Pennington is a great mentor for the young gunslinger and Clemens has made the most of it. Clemens will take his lumps in the league much like every quarterback does upon entering the league. Fortunately there isn’t a huge rush to get Clemens under center, so the Jets can take their time grooming him.
However, when a quarterback exceeds goals and is ahead of the curve, you get curious as to when the transition will be made from the veteran to the future. At 31, Pennington isn’t getting any younger. Continued losing or another injury to Penny, could give the green light to the Kellen Clemens era in New York. Sitting at 0-2 with a crucial divisional game this week at home versus the Dolphins, the Jets need to get back on track. Pennington gives the Jets the best chance to win, but a 0-3 start is not what the Jets expected to start off at, including a tough road game at Buffalo to follow next week. Pennington is no stranger to this situation. His career started off in 2002 when he got the nod over veteran Vinny Testarverde amidst a terrible 1-4 start. Pennington went 8-3 and led the Jets to a divisional title that year and the rest is history.
With only two games played in the season, it’s hard to gauge the Jets problems. Two tough games to start off the year including an injury to Pennington are the main reasons behind the weak start. Week one opponent was New England and they abused the Chargers last week and are expected to be Super Bowl bound. The Ravens are one of the other top teams in the NFL and their defense is stout. Pennington played mediocre in week one and Clemens played slightly better in game two. Clemens’ start was shaky, but after halftime, he got the jitters out and performed well when it mattered. Pennington has been limited in practice this week and is questionable for the game Sunday. If he can’t start, Jets fans will get another view of the future in Kellen Clemens.
Kellen Clemens, at this stage is a young poor-man’s version of Brett Favre. I know, I know -- big name to throw out there and lofty expectations to put on Clemens’ shoulders. If you watch video of this kid, and view both his mechanics and intangibles under a microscope, you will see glimpses of a young Favre. From the mobility, arm strength, leadership, drive and heart that Clemens possesses, the Jets and their fans should be excited about what the future holds. There’s no hurry to bring number eleven in. Odds are that the coaches and management will let the season and the play of the leader, Chad Pennington, dictate when it’s time to make the call to the bullpen.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
NFL MUSINGS
-David Narushev, NFL Draft Bible
- Thank goodness Wellington Mara isn’t around to witness what the Giants have become. What was once a proud, dignified, and extremely image conscious organization has descended to depths I’d thought it would never reach. Undisciplined behavior on and off the field has made them an NFL laughingstock. Their defense is listless, disorganized, and just plain threw the towel in last week against Green Bay. Jeremy Shockey’s antics are never-ending and almost always detrimental to the team as he racks up stupid penalties and drops key passes. “Captain” Michael Strahan is washed up and likely only playing to recoup the money he lost in his well publicized divorce settlement. This franchise may be on the verge of alienating one of the most loyal fan bases in the NFL. They deserve better than this apathetic collection of prima donnas’.
- Good news keeps trickling in from Buffalo for fallen Bills tight end Kevin Everett, who suffered a serious neck injury while attempting a tackle on a kick return during week one. The initial diagnosis was grim, as doctors felt that Everett had suffered permanent spinal damage and would never walk again. His recovery thus far has been nothing short of miraculous and recent reports state that he could be up on his feet and walking within weeks. Injuries such as this reveal dark sides of the game most people choose to put out of their minds when getting caught up in the emotion of a big hit. Unfortunately, every so often we have frightening incidents such as this that make us realize just how inconsequential the game is when somebody’s life is in jeopardy. It still amazes me that in a collision sport, more players don’t neck protectors similar to those made famous by Bryan Cox.
- Last week, Cleveland and Cincinnati did their best to reenact the famous Jets-Dolphins 51-45 shootout of 1986. Though Browns did pick up a much needed victory, they are still very much in disarray and likely headed for another season of double digit losses. Romeo Crennel is essentially a lame duck who might be back on sidelines as a defensive coordinator next season; though I’d be curious to see if the league decides he’s been exposed as somebody who can’t succeed without Belichick. Still, with so many putrid defenses out there, somebody is bound to take a chance on him. Possible early suitors include the Jets, Giants, Saints, Cowboys, or possibly even the Bengals.
- No truth to the rumor that Bridget Moynihan had little J.E.T. Brady baptized by Mark Gastineau with the sweat of Joe Namath. I have to give credit to Tom Brady though, despite the myriad of distractions that could’ve affected his performance during this young season, he’s shaken it all off and continued to play at an extremely high level. I keep waiting for Brady to get knocked down a peg, yet it never seems to happen. He never gets enough credit for his mental toughness and Derek Jeter-esque calmness in the tensest situations.
-Reggie Bush will have a solid career, compiling gaudy all purpose numbers and filling many highlight reels at NFL Films, but count me among those who are slightly disappointed in his play so far. What we expected was Barry Sanders right out of the gate, what we got was a slightly better Eric Metcalf. Not that it’s a bad thing, but so much more was expected out of Bush. Watching him in college, we were so mesmerized by his incredible moves in the open field that we really didn’t notice he didn’t have the power to run between the tackles effectively, and goes down on first contact far too often. Though the jury is still out on Mario Williams, the Texans are not looking quite as dumb anymore.
- Thank goodness Wellington Mara isn’t around to witness what the Giants have become. What was once a proud, dignified, and extremely image conscious organization has descended to depths I’d thought it would never reach. Undisciplined behavior on and off the field has made them an NFL laughingstock. Their defense is listless, disorganized, and just plain threw the towel in last week against Green Bay. Jeremy Shockey’s antics are never-ending and almost always detrimental to the team as he racks up stupid penalties and drops key passes. “Captain” Michael Strahan is washed up and likely only playing to recoup the money he lost in his well publicized divorce settlement. This franchise may be on the verge of alienating one of the most loyal fan bases in the NFL. They deserve better than this apathetic collection of prima donnas’.
- Good news keeps trickling in from Buffalo for fallen Bills tight end Kevin Everett, who suffered a serious neck injury while attempting a tackle on a kick return during week one. The initial diagnosis was grim, as doctors felt that Everett had suffered permanent spinal damage and would never walk again. His recovery thus far has been nothing short of miraculous and recent reports state that he could be up on his feet and walking within weeks. Injuries such as this reveal dark sides of the game most people choose to put out of their minds when getting caught up in the emotion of a big hit. Unfortunately, every so often we have frightening incidents such as this that make us realize just how inconsequential the game is when somebody’s life is in jeopardy. It still amazes me that in a collision sport, more players don’t neck protectors similar to those made famous by Bryan Cox.
- Last week, Cleveland and Cincinnati did their best to reenact the famous Jets-Dolphins 51-45 shootout of 1986. Though Browns did pick up a much needed victory, they are still very much in disarray and likely headed for another season of double digit losses. Romeo Crennel is essentially a lame duck who might be back on sidelines as a defensive coordinator next season; though I’d be curious to see if the league decides he’s been exposed as somebody who can’t succeed without Belichick. Still, with so many putrid defenses out there, somebody is bound to take a chance on him. Possible early suitors include the Jets, Giants, Saints, Cowboys, or possibly even the Bengals.
- No truth to the rumor that Bridget Moynihan had little J.E.T. Brady baptized by Mark Gastineau with the sweat of Joe Namath. I have to give credit to Tom Brady though, despite the myriad of distractions that could’ve affected his performance during this young season, he’s shaken it all off and continued to play at an extremely high level. I keep waiting for Brady to get knocked down a peg, yet it never seems to happen. He never gets enough credit for his mental toughness and Derek Jeter-esque calmness in the tensest situations.
-Reggie Bush will have a solid career, compiling gaudy all purpose numbers and filling many highlight reels at NFL Films, but count me among those who are slightly disappointed in his play so far. What we expected was Barry Sanders right out of the gate, what we got was a slightly better Eric Metcalf. Not that it’s a bad thing, but so much more was expected out of Bush. Watching him in college, we were so mesmerized by his incredible moves in the open field that we really didn’t notice he didn’t have the power to run between the tackles effectively, and goes down on first contact far too often. Though the jury is still out on Mario Williams, the Texans are not looking quite as dumb anymore.
Friday, September 21, 2007
THE KICKING TEE
-The Grazianimal
The 52X has been AWOL but the season has delivered already. Two weeks in and we have seen a HOF Coach shamed before his protégé’, Oh and 2 Eagles, 2 and Oh Baby! Redskins and super teammate Randy Moss showing what Tom Brady looks like with a Weapon of Pass Destruction at his disposal. NFL Sundays always deliver.
Can you believe Coach Belichick chafes at authority, could give a damn about league bylaws and will do anything to win? How do you think he got his job? It did not take long for the tables to turn as the Ravens claimed this week the Jets were playing fast and fancy free with the rules during their week 2 match up. Nobody in the NFL is playing with stain free uniforms. I think it was more about the Patriots having an unauthorized videotape of the game. We all know the networks call the shots.
So Donovan thinks he is scrutinized “differently” because he is black. Whatever. Do you think the Lions care? Jon Kitna looks like Nostradamus so far as the formally hapless Lions are undefeated and ready to pounce on a wounded and whining Eagle team. The kid, Calvin Johnson, looks like the real deal with a TD is his first two games as a pro. And their running game will get a boost as the talented, but oft injured Kevin Jones returns to the field. Philly is a 6 1/2 point favorite at Caesars so somebody must still believe in Mr. McNabb. I have said before the Eagles rid themselves of their best QB over the last two years when they let Garcia go and I expect this game to illustrate that as well as what a young team coming into it’s own looks like against an old and distracted squad. Take the points and rid yourself of Philly exposure in your fantasy leagues.
I have just got to take my shots at the Giants. Has there ever been a bigger pile of meatheads in football uniforms? First Defensive Captain Strahan blows off all of camp and backs it up with a one tackle performance against Green Bay. Who’s Ballin’ now? Maybe that was payback for the sack record. And in a Meathead Highlight of the year, Mega Meathead Jeremy Shockey spikes a football after a first down. That gets you flagged this year, kids. Then, and only Shockey has this innate ability, he drops the pass that would have got the next first down and made up for his meatheaded play. Amani Toomer even got in on the act with an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Tiki Barber quits on a Hall of Fame shot to do cooking segments on the Today show and can’t stop yapping about how the Giants screwed up left and right. Leave it to Big Blue to make the guy look like Professor Emeritus.
The Texans are 2 and 0 behind a one dimensional passing attack and a totally banged up running game. I think David Carr just sucked. They had a bye against the Chiefs week 1, but really showed something beating the Panthers in Carolina and surviving a huge day from Steve Smith. This team is not incapable, but this week they will come back to earth. The Colts stride in to Texas with the home team minus their dynamic WR Andre Johnson, and at RB Ahman Green and Ron Dayne are questionable with nagging bumps and bruises. Look for Samkon Gado to get some garbage time action at the least. The Colts are all world and making many a savvy owner glad that they passed on LJ for Joe Addai. They actually need this game to take command of the division. The line is only 6 so take the Colts and expect the improved Texans to be looking to rebound in week 4 against “The Nightmare is Just Beginning” Falcons.
Kudos to Jamal Lewis for returning to form and rolling over the Bengals. Remember he is one of only 3 players ever with a 2000 yard season. If he feels good we could see a monster season out of him and a Brown team that wins a few games.
Miami, Earth to Miami! What did Ronnie Brown do to lose his job? Only be the best player on their offensive squad the last 2 years. Has there ever been a worse fit to a team then Cam Cameron and these Fish? Wes Welker(14 balls already), he is nobody you want on your team. I am not even going to discuss Ginn Jr.
As I said the Giants stink worse then the swamp they play in so take the Skins laying 4 and let me know what you think at grazianimal@columnist.com.
The 52X has been AWOL but the season has delivered already. Two weeks in and we have seen a HOF Coach shamed before his protégé’, Oh and 2 Eagles, 2 and Oh Baby! Redskins and super teammate Randy Moss showing what Tom Brady looks like with a Weapon of Pass Destruction at his disposal. NFL Sundays always deliver.
Can you believe Coach Belichick chafes at authority, could give a damn about league bylaws and will do anything to win? How do you think he got his job? It did not take long for the tables to turn as the Ravens claimed this week the Jets were playing fast and fancy free with the rules during their week 2 match up. Nobody in the NFL is playing with stain free uniforms. I think it was more about the Patriots having an unauthorized videotape of the game. We all know the networks call the shots.
So Donovan thinks he is scrutinized “differently” because he is black. Whatever. Do you think the Lions care? Jon Kitna looks like Nostradamus so far as the formally hapless Lions are undefeated and ready to pounce on a wounded and whining Eagle team. The kid, Calvin Johnson, looks like the real deal with a TD is his first two games as a pro. And their running game will get a boost as the talented, but oft injured Kevin Jones returns to the field. Philly is a 6 1/2 point favorite at Caesars so somebody must still believe in Mr. McNabb. I have said before the Eagles rid themselves of their best QB over the last two years when they let Garcia go and I expect this game to illustrate that as well as what a young team coming into it’s own looks like against an old and distracted squad. Take the points and rid yourself of Philly exposure in your fantasy leagues.
I have just got to take my shots at the Giants. Has there ever been a bigger pile of meatheads in football uniforms? First Defensive Captain Strahan blows off all of camp and backs it up with a one tackle performance against Green Bay. Who’s Ballin’ now? Maybe that was payback for the sack record. And in a Meathead Highlight of the year, Mega Meathead Jeremy Shockey spikes a football after a first down. That gets you flagged this year, kids. Then, and only Shockey has this innate ability, he drops the pass that would have got the next first down and made up for his meatheaded play. Amani Toomer even got in on the act with an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Tiki Barber quits on a Hall of Fame shot to do cooking segments on the Today show and can’t stop yapping about how the Giants screwed up left and right. Leave it to Big Blue to make the guy look like Professor Emeritus.
The Texans are 2 and 0 behind a one dimensional passing attack and a totally banged up running game. I think David Carr just sucked. They had a bye against the Chiefs week 1, but really showed something beating the Panthers in Carolina and surviving a huge day from Steve Smith. This team is not incapable, but this week they will come back to earth. The Colts stride in to Texas with the home team minus their dynamic WR Andre Johnson, and at RB Ahman Green and Ron Dayne are questionable with nagging bumps and bruises. Look for Samkon Gado to get some garbage time action at the least. The Colts are all world and making many a savvy owner glad that they passed on LJ for Joe Addai. They actually need this game to take command of the division. The line is only 6 so take the Colts and expect the improved Texans to be looking to rebound in week 4 against “The Nightmare is Just Beginning” Falcons.
Kudos to Jamal Lewis for returning to form and rolling over the Bengals. Remember he is one of only 3 players ever with a 2000 yard season. If he feels good we could see a monster season out of him and a Brown team that wins a few games.
Miami, Earth to Miami! What did Ronnie Brown do to lose his job? Only be the best player on their offensive squad the last 2 years. Has there ever been a worse fit to a team then Cam Cameron and these Fish? Wes Welker(14 balls already), he is nobody you want on your team. I am not even going to discuss Ginn Jr.
As I said the Giants stink worse then the swamp they play in so take the Skins laying 4 and let me know what you think at grazianimal@columnist.com.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
VIEW FROM THE COUCH: WEEK THREE
OBSERVATIONS FROM WEEK TWO
By D'Arcy Maine, NFL Draft Bible
With “cameragate” safely behind us, Sunday and Monday provided some great (and some not-so-great) football. Some teams were decisively impressive (Patriots, Cowboys), some surprising (Buccaneers, Packers), and some just downright depressing (Eagles, Giants, Saints). But I was struck by some teams and players for various reasons and wrote some observations on what we’ve seen so far.
Patriots (2-0)
Like many, I was disappointed and somewhat angry last week at Patriots Coach Bill Belichick and wondered how the cheating scandal would effect the reputation of the team. But what a difference one game makes! Facing arguably their toughest challenge of the season, the Pats came out and dominated against a talented Chargers squad scoring on their first possession and ultimately winning 38-14. Tom Brady, Randy Moss, and the rest of the team showed complete poise and focus after the media-circus week that ensued in Foxborough. The Patriots proved they are undoubtedly the best team in the league- camera or no camera. And watch out for Wes Welker. He will continue to improve as the season progresses.
Saints (0-2)
I predicted the Saints would make it to the NFC Championship this year and let me apologize for that. This team sucks. I can’t think of a nicer way to say it. Last year this team was running on emotion and that, in retrospect, seemed to fuel a mediocre team to success. This season the lack of talent is becoming painfully obvious. In their first two games, they have been outscored 72-24. And, to add salt to the wounds, as of Monday, the Saints are without their starting tight end Mark Campbell for the rest of the season due to injury. Few expected the team to defeat the Colts on opening day but the Saints looked utterly lost against the defending Superbowl Champions. On Sunday, the rested squad faced the Buccaneers- a team who did not win a single NFC South match-up last season- and they were defeated, again. Until the Saints begin utilizing their best weapon, running back Deuce McAllister, last year’s miracle team will have to start looking for another miracle. Don’t expect much from the struggling squad.
Buccaneers (1-1)
As obvious as this sounds- one team’s loss is another team’s victory and so is the case with the Bucs. Quarterback Jeff Garcia has brought new life to the franchise and that became abundantly clear in the victory over the Saints. Last season, Garcia led the Eagles to victory after starting quarterback Donovan McNabb was injured. The Eagles opted to not re-sign the aging QB and the Bucs were quick to sign him in their smartest move of the off-season. Garcia is playing with a chip on his shoulder and seems to want to prove his talent and legitimacy. And, he’s right. Last year was no fluke with the Eagles. On Sunday, he threw for 243 yards and two touchdowns. This team will only improve as Garcia adjusts to his new receivers.
Titans (1-1)
Despite losing to the Colts, 22-20, the Titans looked impressive and certainly proved the Colts vulnerability this season. The Titans defense was impressive allowing Peyton Manning and the Colts to score just two touchdowns. Kicker Adam Vinatieri was brought in on four different drives to attempt field goals because the offense couldn’t get it to the end zone. And while quarterback Vince Young made some youthful mistakes and was sacked three times, he showed his talent and made some solid plays. Young is a gifted athlete who has an improving field vision and will emerge as a top quarterback by season’s end. He is one of the few true option quarterbacks and this will prove to be very efficient for the offense. Young is lacking confidence but once he develops this, the Titans will surprise a lot of people with some unexpected wins.
Packers (2-0)
If a month ago someone had told me the Packers would start the season 2-0, I most likely would have laughed in their face. After beating the Eagles last week, Brett Favre and his team came back this week and routed the Giants, 35-13. In his 149th career win, Favre completed 29-38 passes for 286 yards. I had thought Favre should have retired last season. It appeared the spark was gone but this season the 37-year-old quarterback is winning games and looks like he’s having a great time doing it. Rookie running back DeShawn Wynn looked impressive as he scored two touchdowns for the Pack. This team has heart and they might do some damage as they make a playoff run in the weak NFC. However, don’t expect them to beat the Chargers this week. LaDanian Tomlinson will be looking to make a statement after their embarrassing loss to the Pats and unfortunately, the Packers will be the victim.
Eagles (0-2)
What a disappointment. Thankfully, I never wrote this but I thought the Eagles would be facing the Saints in the NFC Championship game before the season began. The Birds lost to the Redskins, 20-12 during Monday Night Football. Brian Westbrook is an extraordinarily talented running back but unfortunately he has little support from an otherwise lackluster receiving corps. Make no mistake, Donovan McNabb is a great quarterback but it is evident he has not fully recovered from last season’s injury. When he is back to 100 percent, this team could be a legitimate contender but I think it will be too late for this season. Safety Brian Dawkins left the game with a neck injury during the 4th quarter and his status is questionable for this week. Dawkins is a leader for the Philly squad and his absence on the field will have a severe impact for the defense.
Redskins (2-0)
After I wrote about this season being a breakout year for the Redskins during the pre-season, I received several emails disagreeing with this idea. Well, I hate to say it but… I told you so! (After my Saints prediction, I have to gloat about something I did right…) Quarterback Jason Campbell looked convincing during the win over the Eagles and his connection with tight end Chris Cooley was readily apparent and successful. The Cowboys are the best team in the NFC East but the ‘Skins are going to give them a run for their money!
By D'Arcy Maine, NFL Draft Bible
With “cameragate” safely behind us, Sunday and Monday provided some great (and some not-so-great) football. Some teams were decisively impressive (Patriots, Cowboys), some surprising (Buccaneers, Packers), and some just downright depressing (Eagles, Giants, Saints). But I was struck by some teams and players for various reasons and wrote some observations on what we’ve seen so far.
Patriots (2-0)
Like many, I was disappointed and somewhat angry last week at Patriots Coach Bill Belichick and wondered how the cheating scandal would effect the reputation of the team. But what a difference one game makes! Facing arguably their toughest challenge of the season, the Pats came out and dominated against a talented Chargers squad scoring on their first possession and ultimately winning 38-14. Tom Brady, Randy Moss, and the rest of the team showed complete poise and focus after the media-circus week that ensued in Foxborough. The Patriots proved they are undoubtedly the best team in the league- camera or no camera. And watch out for Wes Welker. He will continue to improve as the season progresses.
Saints (0-2)
I predicted the Saints would make it to the NFC Championship this year and let me apologize for that. This team sucks. I can’t think of a nicer way to say it. Last year this team was running on emotion and that, in retrospect, seemed to fuel a mediocre team to success. This season the lack of talent is becoming painfully obvious. In their first two games, they have been outscored 72-24. And, to add salt to the wounds, as of Monday, the Saints are without their starting tight end Mark Campbell for the rest of the season due to injury. Few expected the team to defeat the Colts on opening day but the Saints looked utterly lost against the defending Superbowl Champions. On Sunday, the rested squad faced the Buccaneers- a team who did not win a single NFC South match-up last season- and they were defeated, again. Until the Saints begin utilizing their best weapon, running back Deuce McAllister, last year’s miracle team will have to start looking for another miracle. Don’t expect much from the struggling squad.
Buccaneers (1-1)
As obvious as this sounds- one team’s loss is another team’s victory and so is the case with the Bucs. Quarterback Jeff Garcia has brought new life to the franchise and that became abundantly clear in the victory over the Saints. Last season, Garcia led the Eagles to victory after starting quarterback Donovan McNabb was injured. The Eagles opted to not re-sign the aging QB and the Bucs were quick to sign him in their smartest move of the off-season. Garcia is playing with a chip on his shoulder and seems to want to prove his talent and legitimacy. And, he’s right. Last year was no fluke with the Eagles. On Sunday, he threw for 243 yards and two touchdowns. This team will only improve as Garcia adjusts to his new receivers.
Titans (1-1)
Despite losing to the Colts, 22-20, the Titans looked impressive and certainly proved the Colts vulnerability this season. The Titans defense was impressive allowing Peyton Manning and the Colts to score just two touchdowns. Kicker Adam Vinatieri was brought in on four different drives to attempt field goals because the offense couldn’t get it to the end zone. And while quarterback Vince Young made some youthful mistakes and was sacked three times, he showed his talent and made some solid plays. Young is a gifted athlete who has an improving field vision and will emerge as a top quarterback by season’s end. He is one of the few true option quarterbacks and this will prove to be very efficient for the offense. Young is lacking confidence but once he develops this, the Titans will surprise a lot of people with some unexpected wins.
Packers (2-0)
If a month ago someone had told me the Packers would start the season 2-0, I most likely would have laughed in their face. After beating the Eagles last week, Brett Favre and his team came back this week and routed the Giants, 35-13. In his 149th career win, Favre completed 29-38 passes for 286 yards. I had thought Favre should have retired last season. It appeared the spark was gone but this season the 37-year-old quarterback is winning games and looks like he’s having a great time doing it. Rookie running back DeShawn Wynn looked impressive as he scored two touchdowns for the Pack. This team has heart and they might do some damage as they make a playoff run in the weak NFC. However, don’t expect them to beat the Chargers this week. LaDanian Tomlinson will be looking to make a statement after their embarrassing loss to the Pats and unfortunately, the Packers will be the victim.
Eagles (0-2)
What a disappointment. Thankfully, I never wrote this but I thought the Eagles would be facing the Saints in the NFC Championship game before the season began. The Birds lost to the Redskins, 20-12 during Monday Night Football. Brian Westbrook is an extraordinarily talented running back but unfortunately he has little support from an otherwise lackluster receiving corps. Make no mistake, Donovan McNabb is a great quarterback but it is evident he has not fully recovered from last season’s injury. When he is back to 100 percent, this team could be a legitimate contender but I think it will be too late for this season. Safety Brian Dawkins left the game with a neck injury during the 4th quarter and his status is questionable for this week. Dawkins is a leader for the Philly squad and his absence on the field will have a severe impact for the defense.
Redskins (2-0)
After I wrote about this season being a breakout year for the Redskins during the pre-season, I received several emails disagreeing with this idea. Well, I hate to say it but… I told you so! (After my Saints prediction, I have to gloat about something I did right…) Quarterback Jason Campbell looked convincing during the win over the Eagles and his connection with tight end Chris Cooley was readily apparent and successful. The Cowboys are the best team in the NFC East but the ‘Skins are going to give them a run for their money!
49ERS HOPES HANGING ON ALEX SMITH
By Ralph Mancini, NFL Draft Bible Senior Writer
Let’s face it. Seeing the San Francisco 49ers show signs of recapturing their long lost identity as a traditionally prolific offensive force towards the end of 2006 was something that just felt right, no matter what team you live and die for.
The Niners are to offense what the Bears are to the rough, slobber knocking, take-no-prisoners defensive mindset that has defined them for decades. To that end, the San Francisco franchise always stood for high-flying, finesse football and short slant patterns that turned into 80-yard touchdowns throughout the eighties and nineties.
After a brief spell of futility---thanks in part to gross mismanagement of the salary cap---the 49ers seem to be on their way to respectability under the guidance of head coach Mike Nolan. While he inherited an ill-equipped collection of misfits to run his 3-4 defense when first arriving to the City by the Bay in 2005, the defensive guru is slowly meshing his desired components together through the additions of standout rookie linebacker Patrick Willis and shutdown corner Nate Clements.
This young, athletic unit has already been paying dividends in the early going with nine sacks and four forced fumbles against Arizona and St. Louis, as both teams were limited to 17 and 16 points respectively.
The Niners are 2-0, but those who’ve watched both games would probably say that both wins may be nothing more than fool’s gold.
In both contests, the 49ers failed to establish any type of continuity on offense by failing to effectively utilize their playmakers in the passing game. In their Monday night struggle versus the Cardinals, newcomer Darrell Jackson and tight end Vernon Davis were limited to six catches for 40 yards combined.
Although All-Pro running back Frank Gore has carried the Niner attack thus far with three touchdowns, even his production has been sporadic. Take out Gore’s 43-yard touchdown run in week two and his statline would read 19 carries for 37 yards.
But with that said, the weakest spoke in the offensive wheel has been quarterback Alex Smith.
While it’s fair to point out that the third-year signal caller has been plagued by the shoddy pass protection of rookie right tackle Joe Staley, Smith’s lack of command and indecisiveness is not what you would expect of a number one first round pick who’s now in his third year as starter.
Following a nightmarish season two years ago where he completed one touchdown and 11 interceptions, Smith put his rookie woes behind him in 2006 by passing for 2,890 yards with 16 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. Although he mainly rode the coattails of the mighty Gore, not much could’ve been asked of a 23-year-old neophyte quarterbacking a seven-win team not overly rich in talent.
But this year was supposed to different with Jackson, a now-healthy Davis and Ashley Lelie in tow, operating behind an imposing offensive line led by the strong run-blocking tackle Jonas Jennings and ageless left guard Larry Allen.
One disturbing trend that’s been painfully evident in both games this season has been the coaching staff’s insistence to baby Smith and play things close to the vest.
Down 16-14 in the closing minutes of the game last Sunday, offensive coordinator Jeff Hostler refused to go for the kill by going conservative with a series of runs up the middle against an explosive Ram team that would end up with over three minutes left to take the lead.
As things turned out, Niner kicker Joe Nedney connected on what proved to be a game-winning 40-yard field goal, although what really sealed the deal for San Francisco was a last second missed field goal by kicker Jeff Wilkins whose 56-yard attempt fell but one yard short of clearing the goal post.
As the leader of his offense, the former Ute has looked anything but a field general displaying a long delivery and a tendency to drop his hands in the pocket making him susceptible to fumbles.
Those siding with Smith may counter with the fact that he’s playing with his third different coordinator in three years.
The truth remains that unlike other past number one picks (Troy Aikman and Peyton Manning come to mind), the now 24-year-old Washington native hasn’t yet shown that he can carry a team on his shoulders; he has yet to form that Irvin or Harrison-like bond with any of his wide outs that would allow him to complete the all important game-winning thows to his designated target even if the whole stadium knows where the ball’s going.
The bottom line remains that Smith has promising talent blossoming around him and the onus is on him and his coaching staff to cultivate the special gifts management saw in him when making the 6’4” 237-pound collegiate standout their prized number one selection.
The olive branches of a tree are only as strong as its trunk and hiding their quarterback will only leave the Niners mired in mediocrity. It’s time to make this the year to find out if Smith is truly “the man” if Nolan and company have any hopes of turning the once proud franchise into a formidable powerhouse.
Let’s face it. Seeing the San Francisco 49ers show signs of recapturing their long lost identity as a traditionally prolific offensive force towards the end of 2006 was something that just felt right, no matter what team you live and die for.
The Niners are to offense what the Bears are to the rough, slobber knocking, take-no-prisoners defensive mindset that has defined them for decades. To that end, the San Francisco franchise always stood for high-flying, finesse football and short slant patterns that turned into 80-yard touchdowns throughout the eighties and nineties.
After a brief spell of futility---thanks in part to gross mismanagement of the salary cap---the 49ers seem to be on their way to respectability under the guidance of head coach Mike Nolan. While he inherited an ill-equipped collection of misfits to run his 3-4 defense when first arriving to the City by the Bay in 2005, the defensive guru is slowly meshing his desired components together through the additions of standout rookie linebacker Patrick Willis and shutdown corner Nate Clements.
This young, athletic unit has already been paying dividends in the early going with nine sacks and four forced fumbles against Arizona and St. Louis, as both teams were limited to 17 and 16 points respectively.
The Niners are 2-0, but those who’ve watched both games would probably say that both wins may be nothing more than fool’s gold.
In both contests, the 49ers failed to establish any type of continuity on offense by failing to effectively utilize their playmakers in the passing game. In their Monday night struggle versus the Cardinals, newcomer Darrell Jackson and tight end Vernon Davis were limited to six catches for 40 yards combined.
Although All-Pro running back Frank Gore has carried the Niner attack thus far with three touchdowns, even his production has been sporadic. Take out Gore’s 43-yard touchdown run in week two and his statline would read 19 carries for 37 yards.
But with that said, the weakest spoke in the offensive wheel has been quarterback Alex Smith.
While it’s fair to point out that the third-year signal caller has been plagued by the shoddy pass protection of rookie right tackle Joe Staley, Smith’s lack of command and indecisiveness is not what you would expect of a number one first round pick who’s now in his third year as starter.
Following a nightmarish season two years ago where he completed one touchdown and 11 interceptions, Smith put his rookie woes behind him in 2006 by passing for 2,890 yards with 16 touchdowns and 16 interceptions. Although he mainly rode the coattails of the mighty Gore, not much could’ve been asked of a 23-year-old neophyte quarterbacking a seven-win team not overly rich in talent.
But this year was supposed to different with Jackson, a now-healthy Davis and Ashley Lelie in tow, operating behind an imposing offensive line led by the strong run-blocking tackle Jonas Jennings and ageless left guard Larry Allen.
One disturbing trend that’s been painfully evident in both games this season has been the coaching staff’s insistence to baby Smith and play things close to the vest.
Down 16-14 in the closing minutes of the game last Sunday, offensive coordinator Jeff Hostler refused to go for the kill by going conservative with a series of runs up the middle against an explosive Ram team that would end up with over three minutes left to take the lead.
As things turned out, Niner kicker Joe Nedney connected on what proved to be a game-winning 40-yard field goal, although what really sealed the deal for San Francisco was a last second missed field goal by kicker Jeff Wilkins whose 56-yard attempt fell but one yard short of clearing the goal post.
As the leader of his offense, the former Ute has looked anything but a field general displaying a long delivery and a tendency to drop his hands in the pocket making him susceptible to fumbles.
Those siding with Smith may counter with the fact that he’s playing with his third different coordinator in three years.
The truth remains that unlike other past number one picks (Troy Aikman and Peyton Manning come to mind), the now 24-year-old Washington native hasn’t yet shown that he can carry a team on his shoulders; he has yet to form that Irvin or Harrison-like bond with any of his wide outs that would allow him to complete the all important game-winning thows to his designated target even if the whole stadium knows where the ball’s going.
The bottom line remains that Smith has promising talent blossoming around him and the onus is on him and his coaching staff to cultivate the special gifts management saw in him when making the 6’4” 237-pound collegiate standout their prized number one selection.
The olive branches of a tree are only as strong as its trunk and hiding their quarterback will only leave the Niners mired in mediocrity. It’s time to make this the year to find out if Smith is truly “the man” if Nolan and company have any hopes of turning the once proud franchise into a formidable powerhouse.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
GRIDIRON GRUMBLINGS: WEEK 3
WINNING DOESN'T ABSOLVE CRIME BUT IT HELPS
By Marc Jimenez, NFL Draft Bible
The New England Patriots accomplished two things by crushing the San Diego Chargers, 38-14, at Gillette Stadium on Sunday night: 1. They proved they are a dominant team. 2. They got the critics off their backs amidst a cheating scandal which resulted in a $500,000 fine for coach Bill Belichick, plus an additional $250,000 team fine and the loss of a first-round draft pick if New England makes the playoffs. This punishment was OK, but it doesn’t hurt the Pats this season. Some people believe that Belichick should have been suspended as well, which would have been consistent with Commissioner Roger Goodell’s previous punishments. However, the coach could face harsher penalties if Goodell finds other wrongdoings after viewing all of New England’s coaching videos.
Despite the ugly backlash the Pats faced this week, they went out and defeated a worthy opponent and showed that they didn’t need to videotape opposing coaches to win games. So why did the Pats cheat in the first place? It’s even more mind-boggling when you consider that Belichick likely ordered the move against the New York Jets, who are of course coached by his former pupil Eric Mangini, after the league sent out a memo informing teams not to do such a thing.
But an explanation will not take place, given that Belichick has cowardly avoided talking about the situation in public. What he has done is allow critics to question the validity of New England’s accomplishments. But luckily for him, his players have his back. Tom Brady was 25 of 31 for 279 yards with three touchdowns. Randy Moss, who has risen from the dead, caught eight passes for 105 yards with two TDs while Wes Welker added 91 yards on eight receptions.
Belichick, ever the cold fish, even thanked the fans for their support and praised his players for staying focused. Clearly his players, who were left to clean up his mess, were trying to save a little face and stand up for their beloved coach.
“This is one of the most satisfying victories of my career,” said Tedy Bruschi after the game.
By manhandling a talented Charger squad, it looks like the players on the Pats will overcome this cheating scandal without taking too much of a hit on their reputations. But as far as Belichick goes, his audacity to cheat and his utter refusal to discuss the matter shows that he isn’t a stand-up guy.
Not long ago, New England won three Super Bowls and Belichick was perceived as a football genius, but now the hooded coach seems to be no different from any athlete who is willing to break rules just to get ahead. In the real world, people who cheat in the workforce often face termination. But in the sports world cheaters are frequently compensated for their unethical behaviors.
This just in: Belichick has reportedly agreed in principle with the Patriots on a new contract.
By Marc Jimenez, NFL Draft Bible
The New England Patriots accomplished two things by crushing the San Diego Chargers, 38-14, at Gillette Stadium on Sunday night: 1. They proved they are a dominant team. 2. They got the critics off their backs amidst a cheating scandal which resulted in a $500,000 fine for coach Bill Belichick, plus an additional $250,000 team fine and the loss of a first-round draft pick if New England makes the playoffs. This punishment was OK, but it doesn’t hurt the Pats this season. Some people believe that Belichick should have been suspended as well, which would have been consistent with Commissioner Roger Goodell’s previous punishments. However, the coach could face harsher penalties if Goodell finds other wrongdoings after viewing all of New England’s coaching videos.
Despite the ugly backlash the Pats faced this week, they went out and defeated a worthy opponent and showed that they didn’t need to videotape opposing coaches to win games. So why did the Pats cheat in the first place? It’s even more mind-boggling when you consider that Belichick likely ordered the move against the New York Jets, who are of course coached by his former pupil Eric Mangini, after the league sent out a memo informing teams not to do such a thing.
But an explanation will not take place, given that Belichick has cowardly avoided talking about the situation in public. What he has done is allow critics to question the validity of New England’s accomplishments. But luckily for him, his players have his back. Tom Brady was 25 of 31 for 279 yards with three touchdowns. Randy Moss, who has risen from the dead, caught eight passes for 105 yards with two TDs while Wes Welker added 91 yards on eight receptions.
Belichick, ever the cold fish, even thanked the fans for their support and praised his players for staying focused. Clearly his players, who were left to clean up his mess, were trying to save a little face and stand up for their beloved coach.
“This is one of the most satisfying victories of my career,” said Tedy Bruschi after the game.
By manhandling a talented Charger squad, it looks like the players on the Pats will overcome this cheating scandal without taking too much of a hit on their reputations. But as far as Belichick goes, his audacity to cheat and his utter refusal to discuss the matter shows that he isn’t a stand-up guy.
Not long ago, New England won three Super Bowls and Belichick was perceived as a football genius, but now the hooded coach seems to be no different from any athlete who is willing to break rules just to get ahead. In the real world, people who cheat in the workforce often face termination. But in the sports world cheaters are frequently compensated for their unethical behaviors.
This just in: Belichick has reportedly agreed in principle with the Patriots on a new contract.
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