NFL Films tragically lost it's co-founder Steve Sabol to brain cancer yesterday. He had been diagnosed in March 2011 and had been battling the illness ever since. One of his few public appearances since was in August 2011 when his father was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his work with NFL Films.
NFL Films was not owned by the NFL, the Sabols have owned the company since its founding in 1962, but they're part in expanding professional football was important and very impactful. Coverage of the NFL prior to this time was limited to games and the view from television cameras covering the game. Fans did not get to know the players nor see what went on along the sidelines. The Sabols vision of the NFL was more in depth, more up close. They were the first to mic players and coaches, to bring cameras along to the sidelines and to even cover fans in the parking lots of stadiums. This made the game more personable and accessible. Football overtook baseball as the most popular sport in the country in part because of NFL Films. Steve Sabol became the face of the company; he was the one who would introduce the films when it would later be broadcast on television. He was known to players, coaches, referees, fans and even commissioners (Rozelle, Tagliabue & Goodell) for being personable, funny and friendly. The Sabols came to be beloved by the sport they covered. Sabol will be deeply missed but his legacy will live on in NFL Films for generations to come.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Week 2 Predictions
Last week NFL Girl finished 10-6 on predictions. Let's see if we can improve that this week..let's go
Chicago Bears (1-0) vs Green Bay Packers (0-1)
Chicago comes in off the complete dismantling of the Colts last week at home. QB Jay Cutler was happy to have his old Broncos teammate WR Brandon Marshall playing with him who became his #1 target. Cutler threw for 333 yds, 2 TDs & 1 INT with Marshall making 9 receptions for 109 yds and 1 of those TDs. RB Matt Forte also rushed for a TD. Their defense showed out and made it obvious they are ready to play. Packers come in off a crushing loss to the 49ers at home. Despite this QB Aaron Rodgers threw for 303 yds, 2 TDs & 1 INT. His running game failed to produce which ended up being the biggest factor. Despite the loss, Packers should still have a great season. Prediction: Packers
Oakland Raiders (0-1) vs Miami Dolphins (0-1)
In a close loss to the Chargers, the Raiders managed to look much worse (especially on defense) than the final score indicated. While QB Carson Palmer threw for 297 yds & 1 TD, his running game was non-existent & his defense could not stop the Chargers from scoring. That being said they are in a poor division where they should play ok. Dolphins are a team in need of a good starting QB & consistency on offense which they've lacked for many years. Rookie QB Ryan Tannehill did not get off to a great start in the league throwing 0 TDs and 3 INTs. Their defense played horribly against the Texans. If they cannot find a way to score, this will be a long season for them. Prediction: Raiders
Houston Texans (1-0) vs Jacksonville Jaguars (0-1)
Texans come in off a blowout win over the Dolphins last week. QB Matt Schaub threw for 266 yds & 1 TD while RB Arian Foster rushed for 2 TDs. The defense picked off QB Ryan Tannehill 3 times. If they can continue to play at this leve, this will be a great season. Jaguars come in off an overtime loss to the Vikings. QB Blaine Gabbert threw for 260 yds & 2 TDs. Their defense stepped up this game and should atleast have a better season than last year. Prediction: Texans
Cleveland Browns (0-1) vs Cincinnati Bengals (0-1)
Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals both come in off a loss last week. Browns rookie QB Brandon Weeden threw 4 INTs, but managed to only lose by 1 to the Eagles thanks to their defense. Bengals QB Andy Dalton threw 1 INT in a crushing loss to the Ravens. However, Bengals have greater potential for greatness this season with the addition of Green-Ellis at RB. Prediction: Bengals
Kansas City Chiefs (0-1) vs Buffalo Bills (0-1)
Both teams come in off losses last week. KC QB Matt Cassel threw 1 TD but was picked off twice last week by the Falcons. If his RB Jamaal Charles can stay healthy this season though they should be fine. Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick threw 3 TDs & 3 INTs & his RB CJ Spiller also rushed for 1 TD. Do not expect a high scoring game. Prediction: Chiefs
Baltimore Ravens (1-0) vs Philadelphia Eagles (1-0)
Both these teams come in off wins last week. Ravens QB Joe Flacco threw for 299 yds and 2 TDs while RB Ray Rice rushed for 2 more TDs. They have the toughest defense in the league and will be tough to beat this season. Eagles QB Michael Vick was picked off 4 times early in their game against the Browns last week but finished with 2 TDs and 317 yds. Their defense stepped up to keep the game close so they should be fine this season. Prediction: Ravens
Minnesota Vikings (1-0) vs Indianapolis Colts (0-1)
Vikings come in off a win last week against the Jaguars. Christian Ponder threw for 270 yds but no TDs however his RB Adrian Peterson rushed for 2 TDs. Vikings are going to struggle a bit in the toughest division in the league. Colts come in off a loss to the Bears last week. Rookie QB Andrew Luck threw for 309 yds, 1 TD & 3 INTs. This will be a tough season for them. Prediction: Vikings
Arizona Cardinals (1-0) vs New England Patriots (1-0)
Both teams come in off wins last week. Cardinals QB John Skelton was injured during last week's game against the Seahawks and is doubtful this week but his back up Kevin Kolb played well in his place so should be fine. Patriots QB Tom Brady threw for 236 yds & 2 TDs while RB Stevan Ridley rushed for 125 yds & 1 TD. There defense played a great game. This should be a good season for them. Prediction: Patriots
New Orleans Saints (0-1) vs Carolina Panthers (0-1)
Both teams come in off bad losses last week. Saints QB Drew Brees threw for 339 yds, 3 TDs & 2 INTs. His defense played well but the Saints will be tested this season without head coach Sean Payton. Panthers QB Cam Newton threw for 303 yds, 1 TD & 2 INTs in their loss to the Buccaneers last week. Panthers should have a better season but will not beat the Saints this week. Prediction: Saints
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0) vs New York Giants (0-1)
Bucs come in off a win last week against the Panthers. QB Josh Freeman threw for just 138 yds and 1 TD. Bucs defense is their biggest weapon. Giants come in off a loss last week to division rival Cowboys. QB Eli Manning threw for 213 yds & 1 TD & RB Ahmad Bradshaw rushed for 1 additional TD. This should be a bounce back win for the Giants. Prediction: Giants
Washington Redskins (1-0) vs St. Louis Rams (0-1)
Redskins come in off a shocking win over the Saints last week in New Orleans. Rookie QB RGIII passed for 320 yds & 2 TDs while his rookie RB Alfred Morris rushed for 2 additional TDs. Their defense looked stellar. Rams come in off a close loss to the Lions in Detroit last week. QB Sam Bradford threw for 198 yds & 1 TD while his running game was unable to score. Rams are going to have a tough season if they cannot get their rushing attack together. Prediction: Redskins
Dallas Cowboys (1-0) vs Seattle Seahawks (0-1)
Dallas comes in off a win over the Giants in New York last week. QB Tony Romo threw for 307 yds, 3 TDs & 1 INT with WR Kevin Ogletree receiving 2 of those TDs and RB DeMarco Murray rushed 20 times for 131 yds. Their defense stepped up big time. Seahawks come in off a loss last week to the Cardinals. Rookie QB Russell Wilson threw for 153 yds 1 TD & 1 INT. His RB Marshawn Lynch is probable for the game with a back injury. Hopefully their defense will keep the game close. Prediction: Cowboys
Tennessee Titans (0-1) vs San Diego Chargers (1-0)
Titans come in off a loss to the Patriots last week at home. QB Jake Locker threw for 229 yds 1 TD & 1 INT last week but left the game with a shoulder injury and is questionable for this game. Fortunately Titans have a great back up in Matt Hasselback. Their running game was ineffective and will cost them more games if they don't get it together. Chargers come in off a win against division rival Raiders in Oakland last week. QB Phillip Rivers threw for 231 yds and 1 TD. Their defense is very good so should give them the win. Prediction: Chargers
New York Jets (1-0) vs Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1)
Jets come in off a win last week against the Bills at home. QB Mark Sanchez threw for 266 yds, 3 TDs & 1 INT while RB Shonn Greene rushed for 94 yds & 1 additional TD. Jets defense will be without Revis this week because of a concussion suffered in last week's game. Steelers come in off a disappointing loss to the Broncos last week in Denver. QB Ben Roethlisberger threw for 245 yds, 2 TDs & 1 INT. Their defense is still 1 of the best in the league & should get them to .500 this week. Prediction: Steelers
Detroit Lions (1-0) vs San Francisco 49ers (1-0)
Both teams come in off wins last week. Lions QB Matthew Stafford threw for 355 yds, 1 TD & 3 INTs with RB Kevin Smith receiving that TD & rushing for 1 additonal one. Lions have a superb defense so should have a pretty good season. 49ers come in off a shocking win over the Packers last week in Green Bay. QB Alex Smith threw for 211 yds & 2 TDs while RB Frank Gore rushed for 112 yds on 16 carries & 1 additional TD. 49ers have a very stout defense that should get them the win in this game. Prediction: 49ers
Denver Broncos (1-0) vs Atlanta Falcons (1-0)
Both teams come in off wins last week. Broncos QB Peyton Manning threw for 253 yds and 2 TDs with WR Demaryius Thomas making 5 receptions for 110 yds and 1 of those TDs. Their defense looked phenomenal in a surprising win over the Steelers. Falcons QB Matt Ryan threw for 299 yds and 3 TDs with WR Julio Jones making 6 receptions for 108 yds and 2 of those TDs. Their defense looked good but will be without CB Brent Grimes for the rest of the season because of a torn achilles tendon which may make them vulnerable on his side of the ball, however Falcons are a tough team to beat at home. Prediction: Falcons
Chicago Bears (1-0) vs Green Bay Packers (0-1)
Chicago comes in off the complete dismantling of the Colts last week at home. QB Jay Cutler was happy to have his old Broncos teammate WR Brandon Marshall playing with him who became his #1 target. Cutler threw for 333 yds, 2 TDs & 1 INT with Marshall making 9 receptions for 109 yds and 1 of those TDs. RB Matt Forte also rushed for a TD. Their defense showed out and made it obvious they are ready to play. Packers come in off a crushing loss to the 49ers at home. Despite this QB Aaron Rodgers threw for 303 yds, 2 TDs & 1 INT. His running game failed to produce which ended up being the biggest factor. Despite the loss, Packers should still have a great season. Prediction: Packers
Oakland Raiders (0-1) vs Miami Dolphins (0-1)
In a close loss to the Chargers, the Raiders managed to look much worse (especially on defense) than the final score indicated. While QB Carson Palmer threw for 297 yds & 1 TD, his running game was non-existent & his defense could not stop the Chargers from scoring. That being said they are in a poor division where they should play ok. Dolphins are a team in need of a good starting QB & consistency on offense which they've lacked for many years. Rookie QB Ryan Tannehill did not get off to a great start in the league throwing 0 TDs and 3 INTs. Their defense played horribly against the Texans. If they cannot find a way to score, this will be a long season for them. Prediction: Raiders
Houston Texans (1-0) vs Jacksonville Jaguars (0-1)
Texans come in off a blowout win over the Dolphins last week. QB Matt Schaub threw for 266 yds & 1 TD while RB Arian Foster rushed for 2 TDs. The defense picked off QB Ryan Tannehill 3 times. If they can continue to play at this leve, this will be a great season. Jaguars come in off an overtime loss to the Vikings. QB Blaine Gabbert threw for 260 yds & 2 TDs. Their defense stepped up this game and should atleast have a better season than last year. Prediction: Texans
Cleveland Browns (0-1) vs Cincinnati Bengals (0-1)
Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals both come in off a loss last week. Browns rookie QB Brandon Weeden threw 4 INTs, but managed to only lose by 1 to the Eagles thanks to their defense. Bengals QB Andy Dalton threw 1 INT in a crushing loss to the Ravens. However, Bengals have greater potential for greatness this season with the addition of Green-Ellis at RB. Prediction: Bengals
Kansas City Chiefs (0-1) vs Buffalo Bills (0-1)
Both teams come in off losses last week. KC QB Matt Cassel threw 1 TD but was picked off twice last week by the Falcons. If his RB Jamaal Charles can stay healthy this season though they should be fine. Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick threw 3 TDs & 3 INTs & his RB CJ Spiller also rushed for 1 TD. Do not expect a high scoring game. Prediction: Chiefs
Baltimore Ravens (1-0) vs Philadelphia Eagles (1-0)
Both these teams come in off wins last week. Ravens QB Joe Flacco threw for 299 yds and 2 TDs while RB Ray Rice rushed for 2 more TDs. They have the toughest defense in the league and will be tough to beat this season. Eagles QB Michael Vick was picked off 4 times early in their game against the Browns last week but finished with 2 TDs and 317 yds. Their defense stepped up to keep the game close so they should be fine this season. Prediction: Ravens
Minnesota Vikings (1-0) vs Indianapolis Colts (0-1)
Vikings come in off a win last week against the Jaguars. Christian Ponder threw for 270 yds but no TDs however his RB Adrian Peterson rushed for 2 TDs. Vikings are going to struggle a bit in the toughest division in the league. Colts come in off a loss to the Bears last week. Rookie QB Andrew Luck threw for 309 yds, 1 TD & 3 INTs. This will be a tough season for them. Prediction: Vikings
Arizona Cardinals (1-0) vs New England Patriots (1-0)
Both teams come in off wins last week. Cardinals QB John Skelton was injured during last week's game against the Seahawks and is doubtful this week but his back up Kevin Kolb played well in his place so should be fine. Patriots QB Tom Brady threw for 236 yds & 2 TDs while RB Stevan Ridley rushed for 125 yds & 1 TD. There defense played a great game. This should be a good season for them. Prediction: Patriots
New Orleans Saints (0-1) vs Carolina Panthers (0-1)
Both teams come in off bad losses last week. Saints QB Drew Brees threw for 339 yds, 3 TDs & 2 INTs. His defense played well but the Saints will be tested this season without head coach Sean Payton. Panthers QB Cam Newton threw for 303 yds, 1 TD & 2 INTs in their loss to the Buccaneers last week. Panthers should have a better season but will not beat the Saints this week. Prediction: Saints
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0) vs New York Giants (0-1)
Bucs come in off a win last week against the Panthers. QB Josh Freeman threw for just 138 yds and 1 TD. Bucs defense is their biggest weapon. Giants come in off a loss last week to division rival Cowboys. QB Eli Manning threw for 213 yds & 1 TD & RB Ahmad Bradshaw rushed for 1 additional TD. This should be a bounce back win for the Giants. Prediction: Giants
Washington Redskins (1-0) vs St. Louis Rams (0-1)
Redskins come in off a shocking win over the Saints last week in New Orleans. Rookie QB RGIII passed for 320 yds & 2 TDs while his rookie RB Alfred Morris rushed for 2 additional TDs. Their defense looked stellar. Rams come in off a close loss to the Lions in Detroit last week. QB Sam Bradford threw for 198 yds & 1 TD while his running game was unable to score. Rams are going to have a tough season if they cannot get their rushing attack together. Prediction: Redskins
Dallas Cowboys (1-0) vs Seattle Seahawks (0-1)
Dallas comes in off a win over the Giants in New York last week. QB Tony Romo threw for 307 yds, 3 TDs & 1 INT with WR Kevin Ogletree receiving 2 of those TDs and RB DeMarco Murray rushed 20 times for 131 yds. Their defense stepped up big time. Seahawks come in off a loss last week to the Cardinals. Rookie QB Russell Wilson threw for 153 yds 1 TD & 1 INT. His RB Marshawn Lynch is probable for the game with a back injury. Hopefully their defense will keep the game close. Prediction: Cowboys
Tennessee Titans (0-1) vs San Diego Chargers (1-0)
Titans come in off a loss to the Patriots last week at home. QB Jake Locker threw for 229 yds 1 TD & 1 INT last week but left the game with a shoulder injury and is questionable for this game. Fortunately Titans have a great back up in Matt Hasselback. Their running game was ineffective and will cost them more games if they don't get it together. Chargers come in off a win against division rival Raiders in Oakland last week. QB Phillip Rivers threw for 231 yds and 1 TD. Their defense is very good so should give them the win. Prediction: Chargers
New York Jets (1-0) vs Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1)
Jets come in off a win last week against the Bills at home. QB Mark Sanchez threw for 266 yds, 3 TDs & 1 INT while RB Shonn Greene rushed for 94 yds & 1 additional TD. Jets defense will be without Revis this week because of a concussion suffered in last week's game. Steelers come in off a disappointing loss to the Broncos last week in Denver. QB Ben Roethlisberger threw for 245 yds, 2 TDs & 1 INT. Their defense is still 1 of the best in the league & should get them to .500 this week. Prediction: Steelers
Detroit Lions (1-0) vs San Francisco 49ers (1-0)
Both teams come in off wins last week. Lions QB Matthew Stafford threw for 355 yds, 1 TD & 3 INTs with RB Kevin Smith receiving that TD & rushing for 1 additonal one. Lions have a superb defense so should have a pretty good season. 49ers come in off a shocking win over the Packers last week in Green Bay. QB Alex Smith threw for 211 yds & 2 TDs while RB Frank Gore rushed for 112 yds on 16 carries & 1 additional TD. 49ers have a very stout defense that should get them the win in this game. Prediction: 49ers
Denver Broncos (1-0) vs Atlanta Falcons (1-0)
Both teams come in off wins last week. Broncos QB Peyton Manning threw for 253 yds and 2 TDs with WR Demaryius Thomas making 5 receptions for 110 yds and 1 of those TDs. Their defense looked phenomenal in a surprising win over the Steelers. Falcons QB Matt Ryan threw for 299 yds and 3 TDs with WR Julio Jones making 6 receptions for 108 yds and 2 of those TDs. Their defense looked good but will be without CB Brent Grimes for the rest of the season because of a torn achilles tendon which may make them vulnerable on his side of the ball, however Falcons are a tough team to beat at home. Prediction: Falcons
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Bounty Gate Players Suspensions Vacated
4 NFL players involved in the New Orleans Saints bounty-gate scandal had their suspensions lifted over the weekend. The players- Saints LB Jonathan Vilma, DE Will Smith, Cleveland Browns LB Scott Fujita & free agent DE Anthony Hargrove were able to begin play as soon as Sunday. However, Jonathan Vilma who is nursing a knee injury was immediately placed on the Saints P.U.P. list (Physically Unable to Perform). The lifting of the suspension does allow him to attend practices and continue to rehab his injury at the Saints facilities which he had not been able to do prior. His teammate Smith played in Sunday's loss to the Redskins.
While the lifting of the suspensions is good news for the players, the story may not be over yet. The league may still pursue action against the players and each of them may be re-suspended if new evidence supports the claim that they did in fact have a bounty system they were each involved in.
The lifting of the players suspension unfortunately didnt help the other staff involved in the scandal. Coaches Sean Payton, Gregg Williams and Joe Vitt as well as general manager Mickey Loomis are still in effect since only players are eligible for a collective bargaining panel.
What effect any of this may have on the Saints season will be determined in the weeks to come.
While the lifting of the suspensions is good news for the players, the story may not be over yet. The league may still pursue action against the players and each of them may be re-suspended if new evidence supports the claim that they did in fact have a bounty system they were each involved in.
The lifting of the players suspension unfortunately didnt help the other staff involved in the scandal. Coaches Sean Payton, Gregg Williams and Joe Vitt as well as general manager Mickey Loomis are still in effect since only players are eligible for a collective bargaining panel.
What effect any of this may have on the Saints season will be determined in the weeks to come.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Week 1 Predictions
As teams made their cut down to their 53 man roster on Friday, thoughts turn to the start of the season on Wednesday. Here are the first predictions for the 2012-13 season.
Dallas Cowboys vs New York Giants
Last year's Super Bowl winner opens their season against division rival Dallas Cowboys. Cowboys finished last season with a disappointing 8-8 record and out of the playoffs. Giants beat the Cowboys in both divisional match ups last year. With Jason Witten hurt expect the Giants to win this home opener. Prediction: Giants
Miami Dolphins vs Houston Texans
The Miami Dolphins are still in a quarterback flux. David Garrard is supposed to be named the starter prior to Sunday's game. Though it is possible Ryan Tannehill will play. The team is expected to struggle this season. The Texans meanwhile reached their first playoffs in the team's history. Look for them to have an easy win here. Prediction: Texans
Atlanta Falcons vs Kansas City Chiefs
The Falcons look to improve upon last year's season. Their defense has improved and Ryan is healthy so they should have a good season. Chiefs had a disappointing season with Cassel as the quarterback. They should do better this season but they will not win their home opener. Prediction: Falcons
Philadelphia Eagles vs Cleveland Browns
Eagles were predicted to do well last season but finished a mediocre 8-8 record. This season they hope to improve by improving their offensive lines and defense. They should have a much better sesason. Browns should continue to improve if they can keep McCoy healthy this season but dont expect them to get a win in week 1. Predicition: Eagles
Washington Redskins vs New Orleans Saints
Redskins are on a complete rebuilding phase. With rookie RGIII at the healm the Redskins should have a farily good season. The Saints are looking at a rough season without their head coach Sean Payton, general manager Mickey Loomis or LB Jonathan Vilma for the entire season and assistant coach Joe Vitt for the first six games. Regardless Saints to have a prolific offense behind the gun of QB Drew Brees so should still do well in their division. Prediction: Saints
New England Patriots vs Tennessee Titans
Patriots are still a dominant force in the AFC and with a healthy offensive line and Tom Brady at QB should have a great season. Titans have named Jake Locker as their starting QB and while he's shown signs of great potential, do not expect them to do dominate their division. They will not win their home opener. Prediction: Patriots
San Francisco 49ers vs Green Bay Packers
The 49ers had a suprising tremendous season last year. They look to build upon that success under 2nd year head coach Jim Harbaugh. In a week NFC West division they should still be the team to beat. Packers meanwhile had a good but disappointing season for them. They look to hopefully get back to the Super Bowl this season. This should be the game of the week. Prediction: Packers
Buffalo Bills vs New York Jets
The Bills started off fast and strong last season before having a complete meltdown. They need their defense to stay healthy if they have any chance of a decent season. The New York Jets have a great team on paper that somehow does not match up on the field. This team has a strong defense but a questionable offense which may make this a rough season for them, but against the Bills they should have no problems. Prediction: Jets
Jacksonville Jaguars vs Minnesota Vikings
These are two teams with very young QBs. Both should have a better season than last, but still will need to prove themselves in this league. Jags have finally gotten Maurice Jones-Drew into camp but with him being out all preseason it may take him a few weeks to get up to his full potential. Vikings should have a better season with QB Christian Ponder in his second season and Adrian Peterson healthy. They should win their opener. Prediction: Vikings
Indianapolis Colts vs Chicago Bears
The Colts are in a rebuilding year. After a disastrous season last year they drafted QB Andrew Luck. He has shown great potential in his preseason so the Colts should have a better season than last year. The Bears struggled last year due to a lot of injuries on both sides of the ball but with everyone back healthy they should have a good season in the tough NFC North division. Prediction: Bears
Seattle Seahawks vs Arizona Cardinals
These are 2 teams with QB issues. Neither team is predicted to do well this season but the Seahawks under Pete Carroll should do better than last season. Prediction: Seahawks
St. Louis Rams vs Detroit Lions
The Rams addressed their offensive line issues during the off-season in hopes of keeping Sam Bradford healthy this season. They will still struggle on defense but may be competitive in a weak NFC West division. The Lions had a great season last year that ended in disappointment, but building on last year's success this team should do well if Stafford stays healthy. Prediction: Lions
Carolina Panthers vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The NFC South should have a great race this year with all 4 teams making vast improvements. Panthers have last year's rookie of the year QB Cam Newton in his second year and if his running game behind Deangelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart can play up to their full potential should at least get them to .500 this season. Bucs had some struggles towards the end of the season last year but QB Josh Freeman has the gun to keep them in games if he can avoid another injury. Prediction: Panthers
Pittsburgh Steelers vs Denver Broncos
The Steelers made it to the playoffs last year but this year are in a rebuilding phase. They will face a much tougher year though should still do well in the AFC North division. Broncos had a surprisingly superb year and made it to the second round of the playoffs last year under QB Tim Tebow. Tebow is now gone and the teams hopes lie upon a newly healthy Peyton Manning. This team has the potential to have an even better season than last year if they can keep Manning healthy. Prediction: Steelers
Cincinnati Bengals vs Baltimore Ravens
Bengals surprised many last season by making the playoffs behind the fantastic play of QB/WR combo of Andy Dalton and A.J. Green. This team should have an even better season this year. Ravens are still the dominant team in the AFC North. Until proven otherwise, they are still the team to beat in this division. Prediction: Ravens
San Diego Chargers vs Oakland Raiders
Chargers have been a complete disappointment the last 2 seasons. Last season was plagued with injuries on their offense but if they can keep their receivers healthy the Chargers should be back to their winning ways. The Raiders also found themselves decimated by injuries all season long last year. Palmer has not looked sharp in the preseason but the Raiders have been a suprising team down the stretch so should do decent in the weak AFC West division. Prediction: Chargers
Dallas Cowboys vs New York Giants
Last year's Super Bowl winner opens their season against division rival Dallas Cowboys. Cowboys finished last season with a disappointing 8-8 record and out of the playoffs. Giants beat the Cowboys in both divisional match ups last year. With Jason Witten hurt expect the Giants to win this home opener. Prediction: Giants
Miami Dolphins vs Houston Texans
The Miami Dolphins are still in a quarterback flux. David Garrard is supposed to be named the starter prior to Sunday's game. Though it is possible Ryan Tannehill will play. The team is expected to struggle this season. The Texans meanwhile reached their first playoffs in the team's history. Look for them to have an easy win here. Prediction: Texans
Atlanta Falcons vs Kansas City Chiefs
The Falcons look to improve upon last year's season. Their defense has improved and Ryan is healthy so they should have a good season. Chiefs had a disappointing season with Cassel as the quarterback. They should do better this season but they will not win their home opener. Prediction: Falcons
Philadelphia Eagles vs Cleveland Browns
Eagles were predicted to do well last season but finished a mediocre 8-8 record. This season they hope to improve by improving their offensive lines and defense. They should have a much better sesason. Browns should continue to improve if they can keep McCoy healthy this season but dont expect them to get a win in week 1. Predicition: Eagles
Washington Redskins vs New Orleans Saints
Redskins are on a complete rebuilding phase. With rookie RGIII at the healm the Redskins should have a farily good season. The Saints are looking at a rough season without their head coach Sean Payton, general manager Mickey Loomis or LB Jonathan Vilma for the entire season and assistant coach Joe Vitt for the first six games. Regardless Saints to have a prolific offense behind the gun of QB Drew Brees so should still do well in their division. Prediction: Saints
New England Patriots vs Tennessee Titans
Patriots are still a dominant force in the AFC and with a healthy offensive line and Tom Brady at QB should have a great season. Titans have named Jake Locker as their starting QB and while he's shown signs of great potential, do not expect them to do dominate their division. They will not win their home opener. Prediction: Patriots
San Francisco 49ers vs Green Bay Packers
The 49ers had a suprising tremendous season last year. They look to build upon that success under 2nd year head coach Jim Harbaugh. In a week NFC West division they should still be the team to beat. Packers meanwhile had a good but disappointing season for them. They look to hopefully get back to the Super Bowl this season. This should be the game of the week. Prediction: Packers
Buffalo Bills vs New York Jets
The Bills started off fast and strong last season before having a complete meltdown. They need their defense to stay healthy if they have any chance of a decent season. The New York Jets have a great team on paper that somehow does not match up on the field. This team has a strong defense but a questionable offense which may make this a rough season for them, but against the Bills they should have no problems. Prediction: Jets
Jacksonville Jaguars vs Minnesota Vikings
These are two teams with very young QBs. Both should have a better season than last, but still will need to prove themselves in this league. Jags have finally gotten Maurice Jones-Drew into camp but with him being out all preseason it may take him a few weeks to get up to his full potential. Vikings should have a better season with QB Christian Ponder in his second season and Adrian Peterson healthy. They should win their opener. Prediction: Vikings
Indianapolis Colts vs Chicago Bears
The Colts are in a rebuilding year. After a disastrous season last year they drafted QB Andrew Luck. He has shown great potential in his preseason so the Colts should have a better season than last year. The Bears struggled last year due to a lot of injuries on both sides of the ball but with everyone back healthy they should have a good season in the tough NFC North division. Prediction: Bears
Seattle Seahawks vs Arizona Cardinals
These are 2 teams with QB issues. Neither team is predicted to do well this season but the Seahawks under Pete Carroll should do better than last season. Prediction: Seahawks
St. Louis Rams vs Detroit Lions
The Rams addressed their offensive line issues during the off-season in hopes of keeping Sam Bradford healthy this season. They will still struggle on defense but may be competitive in a weak NFC West division. The Lions had a great season last year that ended in disappointment, but building on last year's success this team should do well if Stafford stays healthy. Prediction: Lions
Carolina Panthers vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The NFC South should have a great race this year with all 4 teams making vast improvements. Panthers have last year's rookie of the year QB Cam Newton in his second year and if his running game behind Deangelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart can play up to their full potential should at least get them to .500 this season. Bucs had some struggles towards the end of the season last year but QB Josh Freeman has the gun to keep them in games if he can avoid another injury. Prediction: Panthers
Pittsburgh Steelers vs Denver Broncos
The Steelers made it to the playoffs last year but this year are in a rebuilding phase. They will face a much tougher year though should still do well in the AFC North division. Broncos had a surprisingly superb year and made it to the second round of the playoffs last year under QB Tim Tebow. Tebow is now gone and the teams hopes lie upon a newly healthy Peyton Manning. This team has the potential to have an even better season than last year if they can keep Manning healthy. Prediction: Steelers
Cincinnati Bengals vs Baltimore Ravens
Bengals surprised many last season by making the playoffs behind the fantastic play of QB/WR combo of Andy Dalton and A.J. Green. This team should have an even better season this year. Ravens are still the dominant team in the AFC North. Until proven otherwise, they are still the team to beat in this division. Prediction: Ravens
San Diego Chargers vs Oakland Raiders
Chargers have been a complete disappointment the last 2 seasons. Last season was plagued with injuries on their offense but if they can keep their receivers healthy the Chargers should be back to their winning ways. The Raiders also found themselves decimated by injuries all season long last year. Palmer has not looked sharp in the preseason but the Raiders have been a suprising team down the stretch so should do decent in the weak AFC West division. Prediction: Chargers
Thursday, August 16, 2012
The 2012-13 season
As the start of a new NFL season begins many questions will be answered in the weeks to come..
Will Peyton Manning be able to perform to his pre-surgery level and take the Broncos back to the playoffs?
Will rookies Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III be able to turn around the Colts and Redskins?
How well will Randy Moss and Terrell Owens play for the 49ers and Seahawks?
How well will the Saints perform without head coach Sean Payton all season?
If Sanchez struggles, will Tebow take over as quarterback for the Jets?
Most importantly, how many games into the season will the regular officials be back?
Here are some pre-season predictions:
AFC North
With Steelers in a rebuilding year, Browns still looking for some consistency and Bengals building on their success from last season, this should be the year that the Ravens come out on top of this division.
AFC South
The Colts will be building a team around Luck, Titans are a lackluster team with inconsistency at quarterback and Jaguars still trying to give Gabbert the team he needs around him, the Texans should once again emerge out of this division.
AFC East
The Bills and Dolphins are still a few seasons away from being playoff contenders and with Sanchez not performing up to the level of his rookie season, it is impossible to pick against the Patriots.
AFC West
Always up for grabs every year, this year is no different in the west. Chiefs will remain a nonfactor until they can perform better on defense, Raiders will play well in the short run especially in the running game but will not get enough wins, Chargers are always the expected but will need to stay healthy, so look for the Broncos to win this division.
NFC North
Probably the most consistent and reliabe division in the NFL the NFC North will more than likely see more than 1 team make it into the playoffs. Vikings are still building a team for Ponder, Bears and Lions each have ferocious defenses but Packers are the team most likely to win this division.
NFC South
Saints are going to struggle without head coach Sean Payton regardless if Vilma is able to come back and play early on or not, the Panthers will have a much better season if they can get better performances out of their 2 running backs Stewart and Williams, the Bucs will need to build more on their running game which should give the Falcons the best chance to win this division.
NFC East
While this division was once the most feared, it is now the most underwhelming. Cowboys will have to find a way to play better as a team especially on offense, Eagles will have a better season if they can keep Vick upright and healthy, Redskins should have a better season with RGIII but are a few years away from being competitive which should allow for the Giants to win the division again.
NFC West
The most lackluster division in the NFL. The Rams offensive line needs to protect Bradford better or face another injury prone season, the Seahawks and Cardinals need to find a reliable and consistent quarterback so the 49ers should easily win this division.
With just weeks to go till the actual start let's see how well these predicitions turn out.
Will Peyton Manning be able to perform to his pre-surgery level and take the Broncos back to the playoffs?
Will rookies Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III be able to turn around the Colts and Redskins?
How well will Randy Moss and Terrell Owens play for the 49ers and Seahawks?
How well will the Saints perform without head coach Sean Payton all season?
If Sanchez struggles, will Tebow take over as quarterback for the Jets?
Most importantly, how many games into the season will the regular officials be back?
Here are some pre-season predictions:
AFC North
With Steelers in a rebuilding year, Browns still looking for some consistency and Bengals building on their success from last season, this should be the year that the Ravens come out on top of this division.
AFC South
The Colts will be building a team around Luck, Titans are a lackluster team with inconsistency at quarterback and Jaguars still trying to give Gabbert the team he needs around him, the Texans should once again emerge out of this division.
AFC East
The Bills and Dolphins are still a few seasons away from being playoff contenders and with Sanchez not performing up to the level of his rookie season, it is impossible to pick against the Patriots.
AFC West
Always up for grabs every year, this year is no different in the west. Chiefs will remain a nonfactor until they can perform better on defense, Raiders will play well in the short run especially in the running game but will not get enough wins, Chargers are always the expected but will need to stay healthy, so look for the Broncos to win this division.
NFC North
Probably the most consistent and reliabe division in the NFL the NFC North will more than likely see more than 1 team make it into the playoffs. Vikings are still building a team for Ponder, Bears and Lions each have ferocious defenses but Packers are the team most likely to win this division.
NFC South
Saints are going to struggle without head coach Sean Payton regardless if Vilma is able to come back and play early on or not, the Panthers will have a much better season if they can get better performances out of their 2 running backs Stewart and Williams, the Bucs will need to build more on their running game which should give the Falcons the best chance to win this division.
NFC East
While this division was once the most feared, it is now the most underwhelming. Cowboys will have to find a way to play better as a team especially on offense, Eagles will have a better season if they can keep Vick upright and healthy, Redskins should have a better season with RGIII but are a few years away from being competitive which should allow for the Giants to win the division again.
NFC West
The most lackluster division in the NFL. The Rams offensive line needs to protect Bradford better or face another injury prone season, the Seahawks and Cardinals need to find a reliable and consistent quarterback so the 49ers should easily win this division.
With just weeks to go till the actual start let's see how well these predicitions turn out.
The End of Chad Johnson?
A long time ago in the eras of Pete Rozelle and Paul Tagliabue, the NFL was a much more forgiving league. Players personal lives and off field antics were not up for debate or scrutiny. Players only faced suspension when they indulged in drug use or activities that effected their on field play. Nowadays in the era of Roger Goddell the NFL has began to crackdown on players and the things they do in their personal lives that reflect poorly upon the NFL. The latest player to face this is Chad Johnson. After a domestic violence incident involving his new wife, Miami Dolphins were quick to cut the wide receiver from their roster. This was quickly followed by the cancellation of his forthcoming reality show.
The fall from the heights of football stardom to former player were not filled with lots of issues in Johnson's case. There aren't stories of strip clubs, parties, drugs, guns, dogs, etc. No, Johnson's worst antics were his showboating and loud mouth. He may have been obnoxious and annoying at times, but overall Johnson was a good player and reliable receiver. His last year in Cincinnati saw him beaten out in receptions by Terrell Owens and him ultimately signing with the Patriots which didn't pan out well. Johnson never performed up to his expected level for the Pats and was cut in the off-season finding his way to the Dolphins. Now with this debacle has the door finally closed on Johnson's career? Johnson is now 34 and while still capable, has not played up to the level of his 1st few years in the league. This latest fiasco only serves to tarnish his image and make other teams less comfortable about taking a chance on the aging receiver. A team that does sign him would have to risk the possibility of Johnson facing several games of suspension and with his playing ability questionable at best, no team may be willing to take that chance. If this is in fact the end of his playing days, it is a tragic end to what was once a promising NFL career.
The fall from the heights of football stardom to former player were not filled with lots of issues in Johnson's case. There aren't stories of strip clubs, parties, drugs, guns, dogs, etc. No, Johnson's worst antics were his showboating and loud mouth. He may have been obnoxious and annoying at times, but overall Johnson was a good player and reliable receiver. His last year in Cincinnati saw him beaten out in receptions by Terrell Owens and him ultimately signing with the Patriots which didn't pan out well. Johnson never performed up to his expected level for the Pats and was cut in the off-season finding his way to the Dolphins. Now with this debacle has the door finally closed on Johnson's career? Johnson is now 34 and while still capable, has not played up to the level of his 1st few years in the league. This latest fiasco only serves to tarnish his image and make other teams less comfortable about taking a chance on the aging receiver. A team that does sign him would have to risk the possibility of Johnson facing several games of suspension and with his playing ability questionable at best, no team may be willing to take that chance. If this is in fact the end of his playing days, it is a tragic end to what was once a promising NFL career.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
The Officials Lockout
After the first week of pre-season everyone is disgusted by the ugly and awful performance of the replacement officials that the NFL has hired. In the meantime however negotiations between the NFL and the NFLRA have been at a stand still. Neither side is ready to concede defeat. As with everything in the NFL, the issue comes down to money. The officials want more of it and the NFL wants to give less of it. The officials want a reliable pension plan and the NFL wants to abolish it. The NFL worries that the NFLRA is trying to eliminate their ability to fire officials who perform poorly which the NFLRA denies. The constant bickering and fighting has only led to games officiated by referees who have little experience and none in the NFL. One of the most controversial referees brought in was a female referee from the MEAC (Mid-Eastern Atlantic Conference) of the football championship subdivison. What should be a remarkable and momentous occasion has become little more than a footnote of how desperately the NFL seems to be to keep from making serious talks with the RA. The problem isnt that there is a female official in the NFL though many will say that it is, the problem is these inexperienced officials lack the ability to make all the proper calls. The officials coming out of the college ranks know the college rules, which in many cases do not translate into the NFL. A play that may be legal in the NCAA may be illegal in the NFL. Throwing these inexperienced officals to the wolves for the scrutiny of the entire nation is actually playing into the hands of the RA. Players, coaches and even fans are seeing the effect poor officiating can have on a game. The NFL may not like it, but they will have to come to an agreement with the NFLRA in order to get them back on the field and calling the games properly. Otherwise this will turn into a messy and disastrous season.
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