Riding The Pine

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 17

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Sun, 03 Jan 2010 16:19:00 +0000

Wow, the end of the regular season. How did we get here? I cannot believe in a mere 12 hours, the magical ride that is the NFL season will be over. Of course, for Rams fans, that could not come soon enough. After today, 20 NFL teams will fold their tents, never to be heard from significantly until August. Savor each moment, because in one month, the cold reality of the off season will strike us all.

Opening Kickoff

Now do you believe me that the NFL loves having as many teams as possible in contention? It should be obvious since the Dolphins and Jaguars have been in the post season conversation all week. Even though for either team to make the playoffs it would take a scenario as unlikely as OJ escaping prison to bring the “real killers” to justice on the Today Show as he reveals his cure for cancer.

The Way It Was

Bungles and Patriots clinched their divisions, and now are in a fight for the top remaining seeds in the AFC. How can I keep them both interested…?

Dolphins certainly showed their mettle. Oh no wait, they did not.

Colts rolled over and played dead, and by the look on Peyton’s face, that was not his first choice.

Saints shat the bed against Tampa Bay. Now, tell me again who exactly does not think special teams are important and crucial?

Oddly enough, they clinched the top seed in the NFC despite losing. That will prompt a gift basket to Vikings headquarters.

Look, there’s another one already there. What does the card read? “Dear Brett and Brad, thanks to you two sewing seeds of dysfunction, even your defense looks poor now. It made me look like the winner others believe I am! Have a great 2010! Big hugs, Jay Cutler”

Hey, good on the Packers! They destroyed the Seahawks and clinched a playoff spot. Boy, Aaron Rodgers sure is good in December, no?

Could the Giants, in their last game in their own stadium, possibly have played worse?

Steve Smith broke his arm catching a touchdown, season over. Well, not like the Panthers were gunning for Super Bowl at this point anyway.

Wow, go on with your bad self Matt Moore. I seem to remember me touting this young man a few seasons ago, with no one listening then…

The Steel Pit

I’ll give the team this much, that was a darn good win and an excellent way to close out the home season. If for no other reasons, it gave the home town fans one last victory in person and kept miniscule playoff hopes alive.

And even better, for once the defense gave up a total of 0 points in the 4^th quarter. Sure, they gave up the lead in the 3^rd, but once Big Ben took it back, they did not relinquish it again.

Now, I know what you’re going to say, and I totally agree. The Ravens inexplicable self destruction certainly did help tremendously. I could not agree with you more. But if you play undisciplined football, you must suffer the consequences. Something some Ravens have had trouble swallowing this week. But cry me a river. Play a better game; you’d already be in the playoffs. Steeler fans know that all to well this season.

By the way, a big thank you goes out to Derrick Mason for dropping a sure touchdown. I think a gift basket should be headed his way.

In other positive news, Ben Roethlisberger was named the team’s MVP for the season. That’s a big obvious call in my opinion. Well, so should a Pro Bowl nod for Big Ben, but hey who ever paid attention to the obvious.

Regardless, I’d venture the argument Ben is the least valuable player. Oh, not because he’s bad. But because when he’s in the game, too many other players seem to get lazy and this mind set that if they screw up, Big Ben will bail them out. Unfortunately, that has been the case far too often this season. Perhaps Ben should run a seminar in some mini camps about bringing your A game every week.

Ok, now on to the sad reality. For Pittsburgh to make the playoffs, they need the Texans and Jets to lose. Which means the team and fans must root for the Patriots and Bungles, respectively, to win. Talk about a revolting development. And considering developments around the league, one or both of those teams may just sit their starters and let the chips fall where they may, which would be disastrous for Pittsburgh’s slim playoff hopes. Personally, I’m going with the same attitude I had last week. I expect nothing and figure after today, my boys will be headed for the front 9. But as long as there is some slim hope, I’ll be there. But we shall see.

Only In Faux NFL Reality…

Wait, Bill Cowher may coach in 2010? Combined with all the talk about Shanahan and Gruden, the Coaching Carousel will start with a bang next week.

It would seem that Reggie Bush’s questionable dealings with an agent have yet to go away. Funny is it not how this has lasted longer than his relationship with Kim Kardashian.

These are halcyon days to be a Chiefs fan, I tell you what.

Wait, the Redskins interviewed a current assistant for current head coach Jim Zorn’s job? Wow, Dan Snyder is no longer being subtle about Zorn’s future. Well, after publically emasculating Zorn, like he was anyway.

When it comes to NFL conspiracies, this may be one of the dumbest I’ve ever heard. LaMarr, it’s time to grow up. You guys put yourself in this position, not the Patriots or Bungles.

Upon Further Review

Only in the NFL will you have a team that finishes week 16 at 14-1, and roundly booed at home by their own fans. Sounds absurd right? You know teams like Detroit or St. Louis would fall all over themselves if they had a chance where they might be 14-1 no? Their fans would lose their minds if told their team would be 14-1, and would call others idiots for booing such a team. And yet, that’s what we had last week in Indianapolis.

The Colts, and their green head coach, pulled Peyton Manning and other key starters late in the 3^rd quarter last week. The Colts second string promptly gave up the lead and eventually the game to the desperate Jets. The Colts faithful were livid at the team for giving up on 16-0, booing the team loudly for the remainder of the game. Normally, I’d call them spoiled and entitled fans that really do not remember how awful the team once was. But in this case, I agree.

Now, I know the correct thing to say would be, no our focus is not on going undefeated but merely to win the championship. Every team that goes deep into the season without a loss says the same thing. But you know players would love to put such an indelible stamp on the NFL history books. Peyton Manning said the previous week that an undefeated season is not their goal, none of the players talk about such things and that they would follow Coach Caldwell’s lead without question or gripe. Yet did you see him in the 4^th quarter of the Jets game? He paced the sidelines, with helmet still on and agonizing look stitched on his face, like a caged lion desperate to be let loose. Was that the behavior of a man who truly cares less about winning every game? I think not.

And let’s just take a look at recent history to see if this action plan of resting players really works.

In 2008, eventual champion Pittsburgh played their starters in the last game of the season, to the consternation of most and almost decapitation of Ben Roethlisberger. Despite no extra rest, although they did have a bye week in the playoffs, the team went on to win it all.

In 2007, eventual champion New York played a fierce regular season finale against New England to try and stop the Patriots march to 16-0. While the Giants failed in that game, their play and experience gained from playing New York hard to the end has been stated as a key to their victory over New England in the Super Bowl. The Colts rested starters this year and fell in the playoffs to San Diego.

In 2005 eventual champion Pittsburgh played their starters through the last game, mostly because of their need to do so just to make the playoffs. But the experience of playing each week as though it were the playoffs hardened a team that went on an unprecedented run through the playoffs and became a very unlikely Super Bowl champion. The Colts, much like this year, sat starters early and most did not play a meaningful game, or minutes for almost a month. In their first significant game, they were defeated in the divisional round by, the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Regardless of whether extra rest will keep starters fresh or the team more focused, it does not matter. All that matters now for Caldwell is he must guide his team to a Super Bowl victory. At this point, nothing else will suffice. Otherwise, this plan just turns the 2009 campaign into yet another wasted season and another overly cautious move of resting starters for weeks before a meaningful game only to see them play questionably when it matters most. And we’ve all seen this script played out before, and unfortunately so have Colts fans.

He Said He Said

"It’s going to be an exciting Sunday to figure out what happens with all the scenarios." - Steelers receiver Hines Ward

Exciting is hardly the word I would use.

"We’re not dead yet. We still got a pulse in this thing, and we’ll continue to control the things that we can control." – Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin

I hate to point out the obvious, but you could have done that in the Chiefs game, or Raiders, or Browns….

“Missed opportunities is the moral of this story.'' Ravens defensive back Dominique Foxworth

For you and me both my man.

''I think that call was very late. It didn't seem like if affected the play.'' – Ravens head coach Jim Harbaugh on the holding call that wiped out a McGahee touchdown run

Well, it did, so quit your whining butt bag.

"There was no chance I'd drop it. I'd die before I'd drop that ball. Then I fell into the end zone, and when I got up, I knew it was broken.'' – Panthers receiver Steve Smith on breaking his arm and then scoring a touchdown

And that’s why it takes a special person to play in the NFL. Dumb? Maybe, but definitely special.

"I disagree with their whole scheme ... They don't let me rush. They're all against me, or whatever.'' – Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth

Meow meow meow, I make tons of money but I bitch because I signed for wicked millions with a team with poor coaching, questionable ownership and an deteriorating chain of command. Meow meow meow. Enjoy the off season you unstable ass.

"It sort of felt like 'Planes, Trains and Automobiles.'' NFL referee Bill Leavy on getting caught in weather, diverted by plane and caught in traffic trying to get to Baltimore to officiate the game.

Was John Candy there? Were you going the wrong way? Sorry, I love that movie and just had to ask.

“There's no denying it now. Rivers is playing the best football of any quarterback drafted in the past six years”. – SI.com’s Peter King

Oh yeah Peter? Let me ask you two quick questions. One, has Rivers thrown, at all or recently, for over 500 yards in a game? And two, exactly how many Super Bowls has he won? Now, answer those questions and ask me if you would like to rephrase your BS statement.

“I think the NFL is going to have to ask questions to the Competition Committee, and soon, about whether it's smart to ask fans to pay real money if teams are going to treat late-season games like exhibition games.” – SI.com’s Peter King

Now, that I will agree with whole heartedly.

Idiot of the week

I think this week it’s pretty obvious, the idiot is Colts rookie head coach Jim Caldwell.

Look, Caldwell was playing it safe in his first year in charge, with a potent team poised to go far into the playoffs. Yes, that makes sense. You want to have your best horses at their top strength ready for the playoffs. Every team poised to make a Super Bowl run wants that. And you certainly do not want to expose said horses to unnecessary risk by having them play in a meaningless game. I mean, look at Pittsburgh last year, they almost got Roethlisberger killed last year in the season finale and look how that turned out. Oh wait, that’s a bad example.

However, when you screw up a potential undefeated season with a rookie backup who was ridiculously underprepared to take the field, cheese off the paying home town fans and basically turn the good will from the media built up over the course of a very impressive season into a week’s worth of scathing commentary and second guessing with one fell swoop, well, that means only one thing in my book. Jim Caldwell, you are an idiot, and welcome to the fickle world of the NFL.

On Tap This Week

Everyone in the top 5 in my pool picked the exact same teams, except one, who is now tied with the lady K for 1^st thanks to picking Chicago over Minnesota. That doesn’t mean I had a bad week.

Last week: 11-5

Season to date: 166-73

The Lady K is tied for first, I’m tied for 4^th, there’s 5 people 3 points apart for the top 4 spots with one week to go. Now I have to figure out who has what left to play for, and how they might perform, who is just mailing it in until they can go golfing, who is mailing it in until the playoffs, who wants to rest starters, take a week off, and who wants to win, just to win. It’s too much, there’s too much on the line, and damn it, I want that Wii!

Relax, breathe, and let it go. All good things will come with patience and a clear mind. Now, all I need is one or two teams to show they have a damn bit of moxie….

Sunday

Indianapolis (14-1) at Buffalo (5-10)

Let’s see, the Indianapolis backups or a team that admittedly kicked a field goal just to avoid a shut out. Hmmmm….

Colts over Bills

New England (10-5) at Houston (8-7)

Yeah, like Belichick likes to lose games period. I’m sorry, but I have trouble going against Belichick because you know he likes to stick it to everyone. And he wouldn’t want to go into the playoffs on a loss. Although Schaub to Johnson may cause some issues.

Patriots over Texans

New York Giants (8-7) at Minnesota (11-4)

How can I feel good about a New York team that basically rolled over for a injury decimated Carolina team, at home, and said thank you sir may I have another? Of course, how can you feel good about a Minnesota team that melted down with a chance for the number one seed, and now risk not even having a bye week?

Vikings over Giants

San Francisco (7-8) at St. Louis (1-14)

Mike Singletary gets a non losing season, and his turnaround continues.

49ers over Rams

Atlanta (8-7) at Tampa Bay (3-12)

Atlanta finally gets two winning seasons in a row, the first time in the team’s history.

Falcons over Buccaneers

Pittsburgh (8-7) at Miami (7-8)

Yes, all is on the line. I know my boys can come through. For once.

Steelers over Dolphins

Chicago (6-9) at Detroit (2-13)

Oooh, Cutler has two good games in a row, and Bear fans will lose their mind about what that means for 2010. Forgetting the 10 other holes in the offense and defense. Regardless, 2009 ends well.

Bears over Lions

New Orleans (13-2) at Carolina (7-8)

Carolina will be without Steve Smith. And I just cannot imagine that Sean Payton will allow New Orleans to go into the post season on a 3 game losing streak.

Saints over Panthers

Jacksonville (7-8) at Cleveland (4-11)

I trust Jacksonville in the cold a tiny bit less than Cleveland. Either is crappy if you ask me.

Browns over Jaguars

Philadelphia (11-4) at Dallas (10-5)

We saw what the Eagles did to Dallas last year when all Dallas had to do was win and they were in, right? Well this year, Philadelphia has a shot at a bye week. I wonder who might win…

Eagles over Cowboys

Tennessee (7-8) at Seattle (5-10)

Seattle’s horrid season comes to a terrible close.

Titans over Seahawks

Washington (4-11) at San Diego (12-3)

Jim Zorn’s public embarrassment comes to a whimpering end. And Norv Turner looks like a bigger genius. Frightening.

Chargers over Redskins

Green Bay (10-5) at Arizona (10-5)

Arizona has screwed me so many times this season I’m not going with them today. This means they’ll just screw me again. Oh well, let’s call it one last time for the road.

Packers over Cardinals

Kansas City (3-12) at Denver (8-7)

Brandon Marshall has been benched for the game due to a bad hamstring. Wow, that’s a pretty pathetic excuse. If you’re a star player, and your team is playing it’s most important game of the season, and you’re bitching so much about your leg hurting they bench you? Hey Brandon, in last year’s Super Bowl Hines Ward’s leg was practically falling off and he played. I guess it is all about you. Good luck with a new contract somewhere else next year.

Broncos over Chiefs

Baltimore (8-7) at Oakland (5-10)

Yeah, I’d like to see Oakland win, but I’d also like to see a money tree sprout in my back yard. Some things probably won’t happen, especially when Charlie Frye could be prominently involved.

Ravens over Raiders

Cincinnati (10-5) at New York Jets (8-7)

I know, by the time we get to this game Cincinnati could have nothing to play for and lay down against the Jets, rolling out the red carpet for New York to waltz into the playoffs. But Cincinnati is a better team, Sanchez is terrible in big games, and dang it I have to hope. Plus, that would be terrible karma if Cincinnati did that, and they need all they can get with the playoffs looming.

Bungles over Jets

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 16

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 05:01:00 +0000

Football can be so beautiful in the freshly fallen snow. Well, except when it’s 2 feet of snow, and it gives ding dongs in New York and Philadelphia something to throw onto the field other than beer bottles and hot dogs.

Opening Kickoff

What is this euphoric feeling that has overcome me this week? I don’t know; it seems so foreign. I think I recall feeling this way before. Why, it must be what it feels like to win a game. It has been so long, I had almost forgotten.

The Way It Was

Did I see that right? The Raiders started Charlie Frye at quarterback? Wow. How much do they hate JaMarcus Russell?

Wait, the Panthers sacked Brett Favre? Is that even allowed in the NFL?

Browns running back Jerome Harrison rushed for 286 yards, while all purpose magician Josh Cribbs returned two kickoffs for touchdowns. You wonder if Browns fans just beat their heads against the wall muttering, where have they been all season…

With his 2 returns, Cribbs now holds the all time NFL record for kick returns. I’d say something smart alecky, but he almost had 2 returns against Pittsburgh, so I should just shut my yapper.

Fear not Saints fans. Yes, the miraculous idea of a perfect season is gone. But hey, keep the focus in front. Wouldn’t a Lombardi Trophy look snazzy in the Mardi Gras parade? You bet it would!

Oh look, the Colts won again. Wouldn’t it be nice to see them win it all just to stick it to the Pats?

Detroit placed Matt Stafford on injured reserve, and the rookie quarterback will have surgery on his injured knee. For the hard luck fans of the Lions, I hope this is not a harbinger of doom and merely a bump in the road of a quarterback’s development.

Wow, how far, fast and completely Seattle has fallen into an NFL also ran. How do you lose at home to Tampa Bay, who also fell just as swiftly?

Really Arizona, you had to go into overtime to beat the Lions? Yeesh, even Pittsburgh was able to dispatch Detroit in regulation.

Ok, Jets collapse at the end of the game against Atlanta and Houston has to barely eke one out against the Rams. Terrible right? So how again are they ahead of Pittsburgh in the wild card race? Oh yeah, Chiefs, Raiders and Browns, that’s how.

Unbelievably, Denver lost at home to the Raiders. Somewhere Mike Shanahan is fuming.

Oh, what a shocker, Jay Cutler had yet another crappy game. I’m stunned.

A gift basket recently showed up at Viking headquarters. The card attached said, “Dear Brett and Brad, thanks for the job extension. Love ya bunches. John Fox.”

The Steel Pit

Yes it was messy. Yes the defense surrendered yet another lead. And yes it means nothing in the overall picture of the playoffs. But damn it felt good to win again.

What a fabulous, exciting, thrilling, heart stopping, bowel moving victory by the boys in Black and Gold! Not only am I still buzzing from the first Steeler win in weeks, but also because of the exciting finish to a wild back and forth affair.

There was plenty of good to go around thanks to a very potent offense. Rashard Mendenhall had an excellent game rushing and receiving and is now a hair away from becoming the seventh Steeler to log a 1000 yard rushing season.

Mike Wallace served notice that he is no longer a rookie and will be a very potent threat in the future.

And Ben Roethlisberger threw for 503 yards, becoming only the third quarterback in league history to throw for over 500 yards and 3 touchdowns with no interceptions. His 503 yards also set the Steelers single game yardage record.

But this year, it seems there can be no amount of good with an equal amount of bad. William Gay fell down in coverage, again. Ryan Clark was smoked for a touchdown in the 4^th quarter, when it mattered most of course. The secondary looked in general nothing short of horrendous. And in the 4^th quarter the defense gave up an atrocious 22 points.

Look, not fooling myself. I know the odds are long for Pittsburgh to make the playoffs. And even if they should, the same problems that need addressed in the offseason will still remain. But watching the offense drive the field in the last two minutes to conclude with Mike Wallace catching the winning touchdown as time expired may be the moment of the season. If only because it harkens memories of Super Bowl 43 and gives hope for the future. And right now, in a season of disappointment, I’ll grab any hope I can get.

Only In Faux NFL Reality…

Pepsi has decided to pull it’s advertising from the Super Bowl, ending a 23 year run, to focus its marketing on more online efforts. Well, that and someone at Pepsi finally realized it’s super expensive.

Apparently, Ochocinco and Shawn “Roids Out” Merriman wanted to fight. Since Twitter is involved, I question whether they really don’t like each other enough to exchange blows, or if they’re just being twits.

In honor of Chris Henry, Ochocinco wanted to wear his jersey during the game against the Chargers. But too many people tried to make it into a negative and accused Chad of making Henry’s death all about him. Normally, with professional athlete’s I would agree. But I think in this case, Chad was being sincere. And he should have been allowed to proceed with his tribute.

In other Bengal news, the team attended the funeral for Chris Henry. I wonder how many of the attendees felt about his fiancée speaking during the services considering how Henry died. I’m not being disrespectful, just curious.

I’m getting real sick of the halftime opinion pieces put forth by NBC’s Bob Costas. Can someone tell him this is Sunday Night Football, not Olympic coverage?

The Panthers placed Jake Delhomme on injured reserve due to a broken finger on his throwing hand. Should have placed him there long before due to a broken head.

The Cleveland Browns hired Mike Holmgren as their new team President and football czar. I hope they got more than three magic beans for him. And I hope Eric Mangini has his resume updated.

The Pittsburgh Steelers announced another new investor in their ownership group. Boy, that owner’s box is getting awfully full.

Speaking of the Steelers, thanks to Paul Lukas of ESPN’s Page 2 Uni Watch for this great article about the history of the Steelers uniforms and some of the quirks found in their iconic duds. The section on Polamalu is fascinating in itself, and knowing what I know of the man, unsurprising.

Upon Further Review

Playoffs?!? Let’s talk about playoffs!

As we head into the weekend, the Broncos, Ravens, Jets, Jaguars, Texans, Steelers and Dolphins are all fighting for the two wildcard playoff spots. Yes, some teams have a better chance at nabbing those spots than others, and some teams need an extraordinary amount of help for their playoff dreams to come true. But all teams have a mathematical chance of grabbing one of those coveted post season positions.

Now, while this may cause the players themselves, their front offices, coaching staffs, stadium personnel and fan bases much nervousness, worry and consternation as to what may happen, the league itself absolutely loves this situation.

The NFL loves having 7 teams fighting for 2 playoff spots. It allows the league to continue maintaining their idea of parity amongst the teams in the NFL. It adds to the overall popularity and financial success of the league to be able to tell fans that yes, in any given year your favorite team does have a chance to win it all. There never is haves and have nots, everyone has a shot.

Such a scenario keeps 5 fan bases engaged and buying product in some form or another much deeper into the season. Typically, when a fan base watches their team eliminated from potential post season action, said fan base becomes disinterested and peels away from focusing on the game for other pursuits, say spending time with family or reading.

Now, the NFL already knows that after week one, Rams, Lions and Raider fans on parole will lose interest. But if they can keep the other 29 franchise fan bases engaged, then that keeps product moving, concession sales high, turnstiles spinning and ratings climbing. The longer the NFL can keep each fan base riveted to rooting their team and thinking they may hit the post season, the better.

Being able to point to a season like this one, with 7 teams just in one conference so late in the season engaged in a playoff battle helps strengthen the league’s argument that a fan’s favorite team always has a chance. It’s a better advertisement for the NFL as a whole than plugging the Colts quietly going for perfection.

Just on a side note, I know the Colts are a long way away from obtaining perfection. I think we’ve seen ample evidence through the years that this goal is extremely difficult and all but one who have come close have failed. So I understand why the Colts quest may be underplayed. But doesn’t it seem the overall hoopla of the Colts chasing an undefeated season is far lower than it was two years ago with the Patriots? In 2007 you could not get away from Patriot this and Patriot that. And let’s be honest, that constant, non stop adulation sure made their loss in Super Bowl 42 all the more satisfying. Perhaps that’s a reason why we hear not nearly the buzz. No one wants to celebrate if the Colts should fail.

Regardless, I say to all those fan bases, sit back and revel in your team’s potential chance at playoff glory. Don’t get frustrated, worked up, worried, nervous or crazy. Enjoy the ride. I know the registers and executives at the league offices in New York certainly are.

He Said He Said

“It’s hard to believe the cornerbacks for the Steelers don’t have an interception all season.” – Fox’s Joe Buck during the Steelers/Packers collision.

Uhhh, Joe, no it’s not.

"So I said, 'I'm staying in the game, I'm playing.' I don't know if [Childress' effort] was exactly to protect me, or we had seven points, I'm not sure. That's his call. But we talked it out. We didn't have time, I didn't have time to sit there and say why or what. My response was, we've got to win this ballgame and I want to stay in and do whatever I can.'' – Vikings quarterback Brett Favre

Translation: Do you know who I am? I’m freaking Brett Favre and there’s no way I’m leaving this game no matter how crappy I play!

"Tony said we had no chance. No chance? None? He was a coach. He should know you always have a chance.'' - Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo saying how Tony Dungy’s comments inspired the Cowboys in their defeat of the Saints.

Well, Tony Dungy can be an inspirational gentleman.

"We had 30 minutes of evidence that we could drive the ball on them, we also conversely had 30 minutes of evidence to show they could also drive the ball on us. That's why we took the risk when we did.” – Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin on his decision to kick an onside kick late in the 4^th quarter

Yeah, and the evidence against the Steeler defense was quite damning.

“How the mighty defense has fallen. Wow. Mike Tomlin throwing his D to the wolves.” – SI.com’s Peter King

Hey, Peter, the truth hurts. Just ask Steeler Nation, we’ve been watching it all season.

''We don't need to throw snowballs. We're a classy crew here in Philadelphia.” – Eagles head coach Andy Reid

Yeah right.

"It's probably hard for people to wrap their heads and their fingers around, but this offense is changing, This team is changing on offense. It's not a run-it-first team anymore. And that's not a bad thing, it really isn't. We've got two 1,000-yard receivers. We'll have a 1,000-yard rusher. It's a pretty fun thing." – Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger

Oh Ben, unlike a good many Yinzers, I have no issue with a pass first team. My umbrage lies with a defense that cannot keep up.

Idiot of the week

This week, we have dual award winners, the Vikings Brett Favre and Brad Childress. Due to their antics on the sidelines and in the locker room after the team’s meltdown at Carolina, the Vikings are now in a rather precarious position of cooling down before the playoffs even get here.

The Vikings have an excellent defense and a great running game. They just needed good, consistent quarterback play to push them over the hump. Childress and Favre made a deal with the devil to join forces with each other, and now, the first payment is coming due. And no one is happy with the price tag.

Favre figured at first that yeah, he’ll play the good team guy, throwing for say 200 yards a game just to keep defenses honest from stacking the box against Adrian Peterson. But somewhere along the way, his ego got the best of him. I know, you’re shocked, as am I. Favre knew the weak spot of this team was quarterback, and that’s why he was brought in. But now he wants to be the savior. He wants to be the one people point to when they talk about this Vikings team. He wants to hear, “The Vikings would never have won it all without Brett Favre.” He needs that.

Favre wants the glory, the adulation and the accolades. Favre feels he’s the man. He’s above criticism, questioning and, unfortunately for Childress, coaching and discipline. And when you get a player like that, you get back talk and a refusal to sit out for the betterment of the team. And that leads to explosive arguments and an open questioning of the coach in front of the team.

And now we hear he’s changing play calls at the line. He’s eschewing his best weapon, Peterson, to put the ball in his own hands. He does what he feels will give the Vikings the best chance to win, and his actions show that feeling is Brett Favre back to pass. Plus, you get the distinct impression Favre has no confidence or respect for Childress as a coach or play caller. Well, Brett’s a pretty big idiot, because what did he expect there? Head coaches in general like to think of themselves as kings lording over their charges. Mini geniuses who every call, word and action should be studied as brilliance personified and never, ever questioned. If Favre thought Childress would operate outside of this norm and kowtow to Brett, then he is dumber than previously thought.

Now, let’s not fool ourselves, star players get special treatment. Is it fair in a sport where team is heralded above all else? No. But it is reality. So a star player will always react poorly to being treated like any other player. So when Childress foolishly tries to just that, you get Brett getting all up in Brad’s Kool-aid.

You think after seeing that display the other players will feel they need to listen to Childress? Oh heck no, they’ll follow the “great” Brett Favre. And thus far, that is exactly what they are doing, rallying around Favre instead of their coach. They are willingly following this egomaniac to what will be their early playoff exit.

As for Childress, what did he expect would happen? He voluntarily emasculated himself to “convince” Favre the Vikings needed him. Something Favre had established two years ago. Now, when this headstrong jagoff starts changing plays and freelancing, something he’s been known to do for, oh, his entire career, Childress gets upset? Did you really think Favre would stick solely to the script you wrote Brad? Did you not think he’d change plays as he saw fit? Brett has played a ton of games, and has established in his own mind that his abilities and experience can find the best solution for any situation. And his track record has shown that he will follow those instincts above all else.

On top of that, Childress should have known that Brett does what’s best for Brett. That was obvious when he orchestrated his messy divorce from Green Bay, a team and fan base that made him a super duper star. Did he really think he could control this man and fit him into a mold he needed for his team to win? That’s just foolish. Plus, Childress should have known what he’d get with Favre late in the season. This article by Sal Paolantonio clearly shows Favre’s fading late season skills, and the article was written before Brett ever donned Jets green. And we all know how that season ended for New York. If Childress honestly thought Brett would fall into line and be a good little soldier, do what he was told and be a late season hero, he’s dumber than previously thought.

So, because these two massive morons made a deal with each other to win it all, yet fully expected the other to change and bend to their own wills, and now are creating a rift that could tear the Vikings apart before one playoff snap is taken, Brett and Brad you are both idiots.

On Tap This Week

No, I did not do quite as well as the previous week, but hey, still not bad.

Last week: 10-6

Season to date: 155-68

As the season winds to a close and the top of my pool becomes tighter and more fevered in pitch, I feel like Robert DeNiro near the end of Midnight Run. I’ve come too far, I’m too close…

Sunday

Tampa Bay (2-12) at New Orleans (13-1)

Yes, New Orleans finally stumbled. But there’s no way I’m breaking an ankle jumping off this bandwagon. My seats are too sweet.

Saints over Buccaneers

Jacksonville (7-7) at New England (9-5)

Jacksonville is fighting, if you can call it that, for their playoff lives. New England is fighting for their division. Hmmm, I wonder whom I should back…

Patriots over Jaguars

Houston (7-7) at Miami (7-7)

This week, go fins! Next week, suck on it you oxygen breathing fish.

Dolphins over Texans

Seattle (5-9) at Green Bay (9-5)

Ok, now back to being a fan of the Pack.

Packers over Seahawks

Carolina (6-8) at New York Giants (8-6)

Wow, what a game Carolina put together against the Vikings. Now, they’ll predictably crap the bed the next week. I suppose there’s a chance they may not, since there’s no way Jake Delhomme will be a part of the festivities. But I’m not banking on it.

Giants over Panthers

Oakland (5-9) at Cleveland (3-11)

Ugh. Well, if they can put that kind of offensive effort together again, I suppose I may have to say the Browns. But I don’t feel good about it, for a multitude of reasons.

Browns over Raiders

Baltimore (8-6) at Pittsburgh (7-7)

It’s time for some payback, no matter how the wildcard chips land. Never give up, never surrender!

Steelers over Ravens

Kansas City (3-11) at Cincinnati (9-5)

Back at home, the Bungles will have the cathartic game they need to honor Chris Henry.

Bengals over Chiefs

Buffalo (5-9) at Atlanta (7-7)

Yeesh, what do you do with two teams playing for nothing? Well, Atlanta is looking to finally have two winning seasons in a row for the first time since, ever.

Falcons over Bills

St. Louis (1-13) at Arizona (9-5)

Ok, Arizona, I swear if you screw me again this week. I’m driving to Glendale and soaping your windows.

Cardinals over Rams

Detroit (2-12) at San Francisco (6-8)

Poor Detroit has so little going for it right now how can you possibly pick them? Well, I suppose you could if you’re a Detroit fan and a masochist.

49ers over Lions

Denver (8-6) at Philadelphia (10-4)

Denver is showing that no matter the coach, December is a bad month. And with Philadelphia still having a shot at a first round bye, sounds like a recipe for an Andy Reid celebratory buffet!

Eagles over Broncos

New York Jets (7-7) at Indianapolis (14-0)

I hate the Jets. Of course, by saying that, it could qualify me to be a Jets fan. Shudder at the thought. Indianapolis has nothing more to play for, except I think Peyton may finally want to stick it to Belichick. He’d never say it out loud, but you can see he has a new look in his eyes.

Colts over Jets

Dallas (9-5) at Washington (4-10)

Wow, Dallas won a big game in December! I’m as stunned as the Saints fans. Of course, this week when I give them a chance they’ll crap the bed. But hey, I’ll take a chance. Romo did fairly well for me in fantasy this year.

Cowboys over Redskins

Monday

Minnesota (11-3) at Chicago (5-9)

Luckily for Childress and Favre, the Vikings defense and Adrian Peterson by himself could handle this situation. Or more luckily, Jay Cutler will take care of beating Chicago for them.

Vikings over Bears

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 16 Thursday Night Special

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 19:00:00 +0000

Welcome to a special Friday Christmas edition of The Crystal Ball Thursday night special! If the NFL Network can use such dumb and confusing nomenclatures for their various broadcasts, so can I.

Is everyone having a good Christmas? Did you get all you wanted, or did Santa find out you were naughty instead of nice?

Since Christmas is the time for hope and joy, there are more than a few fans out there wishing for their hopes of wins to provide the joy of a trip to the playoffs. I hate to be a scrooge, but bah humbug. There will be more than a few disappointed fan bases after Sunday. I won’t be one of them, I’m anticipating failure.

Regardless, I hope every fan savors this moment right here. The moment when hope still abounds, when chance and luck may collide and become opportunity realized. When all the stars align, all becomes right with their world and the dreams of a championship still burn brightly. Most of those dreams will never come to pass this season, but that moment of hopeful anticipation is a wonderful thing.

And hey, it is Christmas after all, you never know what may happen right?

On Tap Tonight

San Diego (11-3) at Tennessee (7-7)

Ok, so what do I do here? Tennessee has been on a decided tear since being humiliated in New England. With the exception of a loss to Indianapolis, which was close, the team has torn it up and Chris Johnson has been a demon on the field. On the other hand, San Diego is riding a wicked winning streak, playing dominant football and over the past several years, unstoppable in December.

I love Tennessee’s moxie, Vince Young’s resurgence and Johnson’s otherworldly ability. And I hate, HATE, the idea of backing Norv Turner on the road. But San Diego can still nab a bye week for the playoffs so they’ve got a goal in mind. Tennessee, well their playoff hopes while still flickering are dimmer than Pittsburgh’s. And we all know how faint those are. So what’s their motivation other than 9-7? Ugh, I may regret this, and probably will since I’ve already vacillated several times, but…

Chargers over Titans

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 15

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 03:39:00 +0000

Christmas is but a few scant days away, I have none of my shopping done, the driveway is full of freshly fallen snow that needs shoveled, the busy holidays are ramping up and I need to prepare for my annual cornucopia of joy that is 24 hours of A Christmas Story. But hey, there’s always time for football, no?

Opening Kickoff

Hey I was right! I said Randy Moss would be a potential distraction and cancer to the Patriots and it was a foolish move by Belichick to bring on such a malcontent. I just happened to be a few years off as to when this would come to pass. I’m ahead of my time.

The Way It Was

Broncos’ receiver Brandon Marshall broke the single game reception record by catching 21 passes against the Colts. Unfortunately the Broncos lost. But lost in this story? How about that passing by Kyle Orton!

The Ravens beat up on the poor little Lions. Boy they are just big mean bullies.

DeMarcus Ware sprained his neck in a scary moment during last weeks Cowboys game. Thankfully, Ware will be ok

Oh look, Dallas is collapsing, Christmas must be coming! Every time a bell rings the Cowboys lose a game. Ding, dong, ding, dong….

The Patriots look like a shell of themselves lately. And if they are not careful, the hard charging Dolphins will overtake them in the AFC East. I’m just glad Steeler fans are not the only ones suffering this season.

What? Randy Moss was not playing hard? Moss quit on the team? I’m stunned.

Awww Ochocinco hugged the Viking. He’s so sweet.

The Colts set a regular season record for consecutive regular season victories with 22, while establishing the most wins of the decade, 115 and counting, and clinching home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Not bad for a team with young receivers, a young defense and a new head coach.

Boy the Eagles got a steal when they drafted DeShawn Jackson.

I’ve said it before and will say it again. Andy Reid sure can drag out the end of a half. I swear he turns 2 minutes into 30 in a blink of an eye.

Oh come on Arizona, give me a break. You cream the Vikings, but then turn the ball over against the 49ers like it was filled with H1N1? Really?

Titans linebacker Keith Bulluck had 10 tackles, two interceptions and a pass broken up against the Rams and has been lauded this week.

Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco had a 65 percent passing day and throwing for 548 yards against the Lions and has been lauded this week.

Yes, these were great performances, and many have said the ills that suffered these two teams have now been eliminated. But let me just point out one thing. These big games came against the Rams and Lions respectively. So, is everything fixed, or did two teams just beat up thoroughly on two NFL doormats? You decide.

The Steel Pit

After losing their 5^th game in a row a week ago Thursday, things have been relatively quiet. Not only has the team not been very talkative, but most of the national press has pretty much ignored them as well. No news is good news right?

Oh, most everyone has healed as well as they are going do with 10 days off, and the team will have most of its full complement of players ready for Sunday. There will be a few personnel changes for the game, some most likely way overdue. But hey things are quiet, so there may be some peace for a change.

Oh wait, what’s that? Yup, I thought so. It’s a bomb.

I wonder if Tomlin will be able to keep this team from a total meltdown now. Sorry Mike, but the honeymoon’s over.

Only In Faux NFL Reality…

The Cowboys tried a little 3-D experiment on the big screens at Cowboys Stadium. I guess the actual 3-D game wasn’t enough for Jerry.

Uh oh, the Yinzers are getting restless.

Drew Brees was elected to ride on a 2010 Mardi Gras float and chosen as King of Bacchus. Wouldn’t it be great if he were also carrying the Lombardi Trophy during the parade?

Robert Sormanti, the Patriots' mascot, was arrested in a prostitution sting in Rhode Island. I bet he could party with Steely McBeam.

Colts head Coach Jim Caldwell never moves, never gets excited, rarely makes a facial expression, doesn’t rant at players or referees and I’m not sure if he’s even breathing. I’m wondering if he’s just a robot created in the off season by Peyton Manning, who then programs the Caldwell-Tron 2010 to call the plays he wants to run. Show me proof this is not so. Because now the Caldwell-Tron 2010 has been programmed for Peyton to go for 19-0, and with Peyton at the helm I think they’ve got a shot.

The Giants and Jets will submit a proposal to the NFL to host the 2014 Super Bowl in their new stadium. Yeah, that’s where people want to go in February, New Jersey.

The Redskins general manager Vinny Cerrato resigned this week, and was immediately replaced by Bruce Allen. Jim Zorn, get that resume ready.

Upon Further Review

This week, Bengals receiver Chris Henry died from injuries suffered in a strange car accident. Henry had been away from the team as he recovered from a broken arm suffered in a game earlier this season. The NFL will hold a moment of silence for Henry before each game this weekend.

I think most people who follow the NFL are aware of the checkered past Henry has had. I shall not use the occasion of this young man’s death to revisit them. Neither will I ignore his transgressions of the past. Henry was not a saint and for the majority of his adult life, facts that are well recognized. And if not for a benevolent, and desperate for a receiver, Bengals organization he would not even have been in the league this season.

Despite his past, Henry did seem sincere in both words and actions to turn his life around with this latest second chance. And it is because of this I feel for his family, friends and loved ones and send my heartfelt condolences.

Some people take longer to learn the lessons of life. And often they must learn those lessons the hard way. Henry seemed to me to be one of these people. But it appeared that finally, some of life’s lessons had sunk in and the realization of what it took to be a man and take his special gifts seriously had dawned upon him.

The sad part is when he finally turns this corner, his life was extinguished. Never will he get the chance to live the new life he had started to build. Never will those who loved and cared for him finally get to see the man they knew he could be. And never will those who believed in him see that promise pay off.

You always hope to see those misguided souls that contain great talent to finally reach their potential and become all we hope they can be. And with their success, spread to the rest of us the hope and give us an example that we too can overcome the odds against us in our own lives to achieve more. And when that promising light is snuffed too soon, no matter from whom it shown, it dims all of our worlds and pushes hope for ourselves further out of reach.

No, we shouldn’t look to others as a guide to how to live our own lives. The onus of that remains firmly on each person and each person only. But knowing that others as flawed as us can overcome problems similar to our own has always been inspirational and motivating. And when one who starts to walk the path of personal redemption is taken from us, it also takes away that motivation and inspiration from those who could really benefit from it. And that only adds to the overall tragedy, of which we need no more.

He Said He Said

“This is gonna be the best game of my life. I can feel it.'' - Broncos receiver Brandon Marshall before the Colts game where he set the single game record for receptions with 21.

How did he know that? I wonder if he can do that with lottery numbers…

"I'm not worried. His useless banter really doesn't amount to much at all.'' - Cincinnati head coach Marvin Lewis on the antics of Chad Ochocinco

Why worry? Just sit back and enjoy the stylings of Ochocinco.

"I would turn in all three Super Bowl rings and my Hall of Fame bust for one undefeated season.'' - Former Cowboy Michael Irvin

Gee, with statements like that, I cannot imagine why no one takes Irvin seriously as an analyst.

"I don't see the big deal about it. The president cheated on his wife. We're all human. Human beings are the only ones that have just one partner. You watch National Geographic and the lions, they have like five or six partners. The human race is the only being that is monogamous with partners.'' - Seattle wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh commenting on the Tiger Woods situation

T.J. you’re as wrong about this as you were about leaving Cincinnati. Penguins mate for life.

“Best records in football since the start of 2007: Colts 38-7, Patriots 35-10” – SI.com’s Peter King

And the total Super Bowl wins combined during that time? Zero.

"Wouldn't it be smart if he took $30,000 and, oh, I don't know, bought winter coats for 1,000 kids in Cincinnati? Can't he find a better use for that money than continue to hand it to the league?'' – CBS’s Randy Cross on the fines levied against Bengals receiver Chad Ochocinco

Yes Randy that would be a good idea. You know what he does do? Well Chad does things like when he was here in Pittsburgh, he offered on Twitter that if someone would come to his hotel and drive him around he’d treat them to a shopping spree. Which he did happily. He also likes to act wacky and goofy and bring a bit of fun to a league a bit too stuffy and image conscious. You know what he doesn’t do? Crimes, drugs, drink or commit violent acts against people. And the NFL puts the money from player fines into various disease research centers, charitable initiatives and player assistance funds. So get a sense of humor Cross you douche bag.

“I can't get over Randy Moss. If you didn't see the game, find someone who TiVOed it. Disgraceful.” – SI.com’s Peter King

Disgraceful? Come on Peter, you couldn’t catch a cold let alone a football so withhold judgment of someone who actually can catch. And jeez, you’ve seen this man’s body of work, are you really that surprised he’d suddenly make it all about Randy? King’s just mad because he put Moss on his all decade team and a performance like that makes King look dumb.

"The Steelers are done." – Former Steeler Jerome Bettis on Dan Patrick’s radio show

"Jerome who?" – Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger’s initial reaction when asked about Bettis’ comments.

Idiot of the week

This is getting really repetitive, and annoying, but once again a Steeler must be awarded this dubious honor.

Our winner this week is safety Ryan Clark, for his bizarre meltdown during a press conference this week. Now, with the team freefalling into the abyss, the players in an angry funk, and the coaches and management unable or unwilling to take command and turn this thing around I do not begrudge Clark for unraveling. Heck, if someone didn’t show how much the situation was getting to them, I’d wonder if any of them were human.

So why is Ryan here? Well, because he lashed out at the media, who has loved him since he became a Steeler. He railed on their coverage of the team and how it’s been unfair and they do not understand how hard the team is working. He even said they are held to a higher standard and how other markets are not as critical of their teams.

Ryan, that’s just dumb. Most other markets are more critical or they just don’t care. And we know you’re working hard, but there are no results to show for it. You want the press to write something good? Win a game.

Then he lashed out at the fans, which is just a dumb mistake. Steeler Nation is one of the most fiercely loyal fan bases of any team in any sport. And despite the team collapsing like a flan, they’ve still been behind the team. To question them may be one of the most idiotic things a player can do.

The dumbest part of all this is easily that Clark lashed out at everyone outside the organization whilst his play has been a major contributor to the defense’s 4^th quarter collapse and while he’s in a contract year and looking for a new deal with the team. Ryan, do you really think they can sign you again now after dumping on the fans?

So Ryan Clark, while I like you as a person and a player, you’ve given me no choice. You are an idiot.

On Tap This Week

Ok, so we had a few set backs recently, but last week, a rousing performance has narrowed the gap between 1^st and 4^th place and the pressure just increased tenfold.

Last week: 13-3

Season to date: 145 - 62

I cannot say it enough, I want that Wii Fit. Let’s see who blinks first. The final push begins…

Saturday

Dallas (8-5) at New Orleans (13-0)

This game on the NFL Network is a special Saturday edition of Thursday Night Football. Why they couldn’t just call it Saturday Night Football, you’ve got me. Regardless, it matters not what nomenclature they use, it still means the same thing at the end of the game.

Saints over Cowboys

Sunday

New England (8-5) at Buffalo (5-8)

Hmmm, Belichick seems to have a few problems on his hands. Somehow, I do not think Buffalo qualifies as one of them.

Patriots over Bills

Miami (7-6) at Tennessee (5-7)

Miami is coming on strong and fighting not just for a playoff spot, but the division as well. But they have yet to see Chris Johnson in person.

Titans over Dolphins

Houston (6-7) at St. Louis (1-12)

Oh look, Houston wins a meaningless game when all pressure of a playoff opportunity has been removed.

Texans over Rams

Arizona (8-5) at Detroit (2-11)

Ok, if Arizona screws me this week, I’m totally putting coal in their stockings.

Cardinals over Lions

Atlanta (6-7) at New York Jets (7-6)

Yes, Chris Redman has played well in relief of Matt Ryan. But hey, the Jets have a shot at the division. So who has more at stake?

Jets over Falcons

Cleveland (2-11) at Kansas City (3-10)

Ewww.

Chiefs over Browns

Oakland (4-9) at Denver (8-5)

I still miss how Shanahan made it his personal mission to stick it to Al Davis. At least somewhere he will watch proudly as the Neck Beard continues the tradition.

Broncos over Raiders

Cincinnati (9-4) at San Diego (10-3)

I don’t know where the Bungles passing game went, but they’re not going far without something to distract from the run.

Chargers over Bungles

Chicago (5-8) at Baltimore (7-6)

What’s the over/under on interceptions made by Ed Reed on Jay Cutler? 10? 11?

Ravens over Bears

San Francisco (6-7) at Philadelphia (9-4)

I was impressed by Philadelphia by showing resolve after losing the lead last week against the Giants. Perhaps they may finally have found a pair.

Eagles over 49ers

Tampa Bay (1-12) at Seattle (5-8)

Well, it is a home game. I suppose that means Seattle will dominate by double digits.

Seahawks over Buccaneers

Green Bay (9-4) at Pittsburgh (6-7)

Do I honestly believe Pittsburgh has a team capable of beating Green Bay? Yes. Do I believe Pittsburgh will defeat them? I have my doubts. But hey, it’s Christmas, a time of miracles. So be of good cheer and pure of heart Steeler Nation. Sometimes Christmas comes early if you only believe.

Steelers over Packers

Minnesota (11-2) at Carolina (5-8)

I don’t care anymore what Carolina team shows up. I’m going with the Minnesota team that has that one quarterback, you know, the one who does Wrangler commercials? I’ve heard he’s pretty good.

Vikings over Panthers

Monday

New York Giants (7-6) at Washington (4-9)

Oh I have no idea. I suppose it’s time for New York to win something.

Giants over Redskins

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 15 Thursday Night Special

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 01:34:00 +0000

Welcome to week 15 of the NFL season, where we converge on exciting Jacksonville! Yes, I said it. Come on Jacksonville is exciting. They have Tim Tebow and……Tim Tebow.

For tonight’s game, the City of Jacksonville and a group called “Touchdown Jacksonville-Revive the Pride” will be hosting a Tealgate party. The aim is to get the local fans involved, engaged and excited about the Jaguars and having an NFL team in their fair city.

Something tells me this is like fighting a fire with a slow running spigot and a sippy cup. Tonight will mark the first time this season the Jaguars will NOT be blacked out in their local market. That’s right. Even though the NFL gave the team permission to cover a large portion of their seating to create the illusion of selling out the stadium, they still cannot. Even though the team is decent and better than say half of the remainder of the NFL, the locals really do not care. Oh, I’m sure there’s a feverish group dedicated to the team. But the majority would rather watch the Gators.

If the Jaguars leave town, would anyone care? Ask me in two years when we’re rooting for the Los Angeles or London Jaguars.

On Tap Tonight

Indianapolis (13-0) at Jacksonville (7-6)

I know, the word on the street is the upset is looming. Jacksonville, fighting for their playoff lives, will be set to topple Peyton and company. The Colts will rest their dinged up starters and risk losing for the first time this season to get healthy for the playoffs. Yeah, yeah, yeah. I say meh to it. If Jacksonville had all that much fight in them, then tell me why they crapped the bed, at home, last week to Miami? Oh, they had the opportunity, but not the execution. What makes you think they will on a short week against one of the best teams in the NFL? Yes, you can sit around and tell me stats about how the Colts have just squeaked by in some of their wins, and how well Jacksonville did in their last match up. But you know what? I’m not buying it. Yeah, there’s a good chance the Jags could come out and do a number on Indianapolis’ back ups. But I’d rather back Peyton for 2 quarters or less than David Garrard for an entire game.

Colts over Jaguars

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 14

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 04:12:00 +0000

It happens once a season. I put my picks in, don’t pay attention then have to root for a crappy team to pull off the upset. This year, I accidentally picked Tampa Bay over Carolina. Oops. Such a mistake would not have been so bad if not for the fact that I was risking a pick with the Titans already. Double oops.

Opening Kickoff

More than ever, I maintain the Black and Gold are going to the Super Bowl and I’ll be right behind them. With the Steelers season effectively over, New Orleans is now the official temporary team of the Crystal Ball, and we’ll root them all the way to Miami. Go Saints!

I know that sounds like fan sacrilege, but trust me, it’s cool. We’ll revisit this come playoff time.

The Way It Was

In Atlanta, Michael Vick ran and threw for a touchdown against the Falcons. Not only that, the Falcon fans cheered him. Amazing how time can heal all wounds.

Ha ha, Patriots lost again. Yes, it’s a minor consolation in yet another disappointing week from the current NFL champions, but I’ll take a Patriot embarrassment too.

Are the Redskins playing to keep Zorn’s job? It looks like it, except yet again they came up short.

Amazing, the Saints looked like it would be over, yet they pulled it out. That’s how a champion plays.

Really Mike Singletary? That’s how you roll? You put the boots to a decent AFC team but cannot finish off a horrid NFC division opponent? Come on!

Thank you Cowboys, for allowing me to watch two horrid defensive performances in a row.

Has there been a better heads up play than Robert Meacham stripping the ball after an interception and then running it back for a touchdown? Not for my money there hasn’t.

Wait; is there a brewing quarterback controversy in Kansas City? Is the great Matt Cassel not working out? Really? Who would have thought paying a career back up big money without seeing proof he can lead a team in more than relief duty would be a bad idea! Hmmmm, maybe the Buffalo Bills?

I’m thinking that perhaps there is some truth to the theory that Scott Pioli really didn’t do all that much in New England. Isn’t it funny how everyone who leaves there fails miserably? You best watch out Josh McDaniels.

Ok, so Tim Ruskell leaves as general manager of the Seahawks. The team is a mess, obviously, and it will take some real work to put it back together as a Super Bowl contender. But I question why Seattleites are going gaga over the possibility of Mike Holmgren taking the job. Isn’t he one of the reasons the team is in the condition it is now? I know he hasn’t been the GM in quite some time, but I’m sure he has some significant input in turning this team into poo on a shingle.

Josh Freeman you made me look dumber than usual. Really, 5 interceptions in your game, two of them coming in the red zone? Josh, I need no help looking foolish, thank you very much.

Wow, Rex Grossman made it into a game. Now Texan fans know Chicago’s pain. He was so bad Matt Schaub miraculously recovered from his injury.

The Steel Pit

Somehow it seems fitting that the season ended with a whimper on a terribly cold night in Cleveland. I’m not sure why, but it just seemed fitting.

You know what’s been amazing about Pittsburgh’s collapse? Each week they lose, and I think, wow this is awful. There’s no way it can get any worse. They’ll beat next week’s patsy I’m sure. And then next week comes, we crumble against said patsy and somehow it gets worse. Actually at this point, I’m fascinated and amazed by this phenomenon.

Oh, I still have to fight off the urge to vomit. After all I did just watch Pittsburgh lose to two of the crappiest teams in the NFL, as well as completely torpedo any hope at the playoffs, in the span of 4 days. But I’m still amazed.

I could go off into a rant about William Gay and Tyrone Carter getting schooled, again. Or possibly expound on the defenses struggles, again. I thought of even going off on the offense and their unimaginable ability to move the ball against the Cleveland Browns. Or even Bruce Arians ridiculous play calling that seems to always stifle drives and confound his team.

I thought of the embarrassment of losing to Eric Mangenius or Tomlin’s promise of change left unfulfilled. Maybe even expounding on the fact that Cleveland has scored a total of one touchdown by a running back this season, and it was Thursday night. Or, horribly, I thought of discussing the 8 sacks given up by the offense, both the fault of an ineffective offensive line and an indecisive Roethlisberger. But you now what? Actually right now I feel good.

Yes, the Steelers season is effectively over. A playoff spot would require winning out and having a mondo amount of luck, which most likely will not happen. But I actually feel fine about it. I know, that sounds absurd, but I do. I feel strangely, yet wonderfully, liberated.

Now for the remainder of the season, I can watch games merely for the joy of it, instead of sitting on eggshells hoping that our flaws are not exposed and that the team can pull out a win. I need not worry about the playoffs and a potential collapse in the post season, because it just won’t happen. I feel free in an odd way.

Sure, another Super Bowl would have been wonderful, and really stuck it to the Patriots. But you cannot win it every year, and the team still has the most wins in the big game than any other team. In addition, I get to potentially see the enjoyment of a team win the Super Bowl that never has before. Go Saints!

And the plus side of all the team’s deficiencies being put on display is that now the coaching staff and team administration can look at the team with objective eyes, work to fix those flaws and build a better team for next year. I know, it’s grasping at straws, but I’ll take any positive I can.

Although in some ways negative and some ways positive, 2009 has been quite memorable for the Pittsburgh Steelers. So come on boys, let’s go out in style and kick a few more fannies. Call it a gift to your fans, because we need one right about now. And after all, it’s almost Christmas!

Only In Faux NFL Reality…

Oh look, Tom and Gisele had a baby last week! If Tom has a baby, then how can he be a baby? Curiosity abounds.

After a touchdown last week, Chad Ochocinco strode to the sidelines and donned a poncho and sombrero. For his wacky antic, the NFL fined him $30,000. Thank goodness for Chad, because he promised more to come. I’m strangely curious to see what he’ll do in the playoffs.

In a recap of the decade, Sports Illustrated released a bunch of best of lists this week. One of my favorites was Peter King’s; specifically for his playoff game and Super Bowl game choices. Ahhh, good times.

Redskin Clinton Portis has been placed on injured reserve and is considering retirement. Now, with yet another big name going down for the season, do we really think an 18 game season is a good idea?

This is the video of Viking E.J. Henderson breaking his leg. Trust me; it’s not for the feint of heart. Here’s hoping E.J. recovers well and is able to come back next season.

In The Merry Old Land Of Oz

This segment leaves us this week. The regular season of my league completed, and I did not make the playoffs. I should have, based on accumulated points since I tied by record with a cat who made the playoffs. But alas, what the league rules say and how the application actually works are two different things apparently.

But I had fun, learned a few things, got too worked up about individual performance and completely nerded out on football. All in all, an excellent waste of time. I will do it one more season at least, since I’d like to try the draft. So we’ll come back to this next year and see if lessons learned can mean a championship.

Until then, fantasy nerds rejoice, fantasy baseball is right around the corner. Let me know how it turns out.

Upon Further Review

This week we’re going to something completely different and step outside the world of professional football. I know, I should have warned you to sit down first. But something has been on my mind lately and I feel compelled to share.

What’s on my mind is Tiger Woods and his amazing time management and organizational skills. With the seemingly endless revelations regarding Tiger’s private life and his “transgressions”, the astounding points of his ability to keep the various aspects of his life in order have been lost on almost everyone.

Now, I’m not going to sit here and condemn Tiger for what he’s done. As far as I’m concerned, his extramarital activity is between him and Elin. And obviously they’re having their own troubles working through that. I’ve said often that what happens between two people in a relationship is between those two people and not the business of anyone else. If those two people care to share it with others, that’s their choice. Otherwise we should keep our noses out of their troubles.

Right now, this ever expanding state of affairs, no pun intended, is their business not ours. And I say this despite what TMZ or E! News might tell you. We tend to spend too much time focusing on the lives of the rich and famous instead of putting that time and energy into our own lives. That, however, is a discussion for another day and another forum, specifically Quick Thoughts and Nonsense, check it out.

Back to my point; with each new chippie that comes out of the woodwork looking for her 15 minutes of fame by acknowledging she knocked boots with Tiger, I become more amazed with the man. Not because he racked up a giant tally of chicks, but because he was able to.

Think about it for a minute. Tiger has a wife and a family. He has a full time job as a professional golfer that also takes up a multitude of time, both in actual on the job performance as well as travel and practice time. He has a side business where he designs golf courses. On top of that, he works for a myriad of corporations as a spokesman, which requires a significant time commitment. How did he find the time to have a harem of nookie on the side?

Yes, we could easily sit in moral judgment of Tiger regarding his “transgressions”. But what we should be doing is sitting in awe of his time management skills. How he managed to fit all of this into his life I’ll never know. I have enough trouble holding down a full time job, a wife and two dogs and fitting into that hobbies and chores to make my own world go around.

Once everything dies down and Tiger pulls his life back together, he’ll never have to worry about money again. He’s found a second career for when his golf game leaves him. He could easily go on the road speaking to corporations and businesses regarding time management and organizational skills. Honestly. If he can keep track of all of that, keep it in order and find time to address everything and keep everyone relatively happy whilst maintaining his well crafted public persona and shrouding his extracurricular activities from everyone, well the man should be teaching the rest of us how to maximize our time and keep our lives in order. And for the p-hounds out there, he can teach them how to get more tail for less.

He Said He Said

“We didn’t make a play to win that football game, defensively.” – Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin

In which game?

"I'd have to cut him before he cost me my job.''- Analyst Tony Dungy, on what he'd do if he were the coach of Redskins kicker Shaun Suisham

I don’t believe that at all, especially from a man who stuck by Mike Vanderjagt.

"The commissioner has talked about the risk the owners take. We're not financially invested in ownership, so we don't face that, but we're physically invested in this. What's the price tag for that? Ask [permanently injured Buffalo tight end] Kevin Everett the price tag. We feel we take great risk every time we take the field. I'm sure the owners feel they take great risk every time they invest their money. Where is the common ground? That's what we need to find.'' - New England quarterback Tom Brady, on the current collective bargaining talks between players and owners.

As much as he annoys me, Brady makes an excellent point.

"Stop [expletive] looking at that thing and get your mind right!'' – Oakland quarterback Bruce Gradkowski to left tackle Mario Henderson during the final drive at Pittsburgh

Shame he didn’t give that pep talk to the opposing defense.

"Huh? I'm just trying to win a game, man. What's coach [Jim] Mora's response to that? That's where we're at." – Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin when asked about the Steelers playoff chances.

Playoffs? Don’t talk about playoffs! At the very least, Tomlin has a wicked sense of humor. I’m sure he needs it right now. I know I do

Idiot of the week

This week it’s easy. The idiot is us, Steeler nation. Specifically, the idiots are those of us who stayed up late to watch the end of the debacle that was Pittsburgh at Cleveland. Yeesh, never did sleep seem like a better option than watching football.

On Tap This Week

Each week I try, and each week I watch yet another person slip past me toward the front of the pack. I feel like Pittsburgh. Awww, too soon?

Last Week: 9-7

This Week: 0-1

Season to date: 132-59

Sunday

New Orleans (12-0) at Atlanta (6-6)

Next stop on the Saints Express, Atlanta. Please have your tickets ready for departure. Honestly, after last week in Washington, how can you pick against New Orleans?

Saints over Falcons

Seattle (5-7) at Houston (5-7)

Ugh. Which mediocre team will prevail? More importantly who will care?

Texans over Seahawks

Denver (8-4) at Indianapolis (12-0)

Yeah, I’m sorry Peyton. I didn’t mean to doubt you. I’m back in your corner, I promise. I used my MasterCard this week just as a show of faith.

Colts over Broncos

Carolina (5-7) at New England (7-5)

Ok, the Pats are not the world beaters they once were. But they can kick Carolina’s fanny.

Patriots over Panthers

Buffalo (4-8) at Kansas City (3-9)

Good gravy.

Bills over Chiefs

Detroit (2-10) at Baltimore (6-6)

Let’s let the embarrassment continue. The only way I could feel good about the Steelers is if Baltimore crapped the bed against Detroit. That is highly doubtful, though.

Ravens over Lions

Cincinnati (9-3) at Minnesota (10-2)

This is a defining game for both teams. If Cincinnati wants to be taken seriously, they need to win. If Minnesota wants to show they’re a legitimate contender and last week’s fiasco at Arizona was an anomaly, then they must crush the Bungles. And even though the real Brett Favre showed up last week, I’m going with the latter.

Vikings over Bungles

Miami (6-6) at Jacksonville (7-5)

Yeah, Miami did a good job last week. But I think its more anomaly than anything. That’s not confidence in Jacksonville, just doubt in the Dolphins.

Jaguars over Dolphins

New York Jets (6-6) at Tampa Bay (1-11)

Go Sanchize! I wish my fantasy team was still in effect. With Freeman’s new penchant for turnovers and the Jets defensive proclivity for forcing turnovers, it would be a jackpot!

Jets over Buccaneers

Green Bay (8-4) at Chicago (5-7)

I feel like some cheese.

Packers over Bears

Washington (3-9) at Oakland (4-8)

Who’s the bigger crap fest? I’m going with the team that took New Orleans to the limit, not the one that lucked out playing a paper champion.

Redskins over Raiders

St. Louis (1-11) at Tennessee (5-7)

Chris Johnson highlight film forthcoming.

Titans over Rams

San Diego (9-3) at Dallas (8-4)

Hmmm, Norv Turner or Wade Phillips? It’s like Sophie’s choice, except you cannot give up both.

Chargers over Cowboys

Philadelphia (8-4) at New York Giants (7-5)

With a fat new contract to match his pant size, Andy Reid will prevail. Or at the very least, grab a slice of New York style pizza. Either way, he walks away a big winner.

Eagles over Giants

Monday

Arizona (8-4) at San Francisco (5-7)

If that’s the true Arizona team I saw last week, this is a no brainer.

Cardinals over 49ers

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 14 Thursday Night Special

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:25:00 +0000

Wow, Tomlin was right, the Steelers did unleash hell. Because if watching the Raiders beat Pittsburgh at home isn’t hell, I don’t know what is.

Let’s face facts. This team currently is mediocre at best. At worst, we’re looking at a bad team and a mere shell of the unit that won the Super Bowl. Does it have the capacity of being a high caliber team? Absolutely. But will it? Who knows?

I’m resisting the urge to go on a screed about the team, we’re not quite there. Oh, we’re close, but not there yet.

I don’t understand how a team that can defeat the Vikings, a good team, can lose 4 straight with two against abysmal AFC west teams. I just do not. I don’t know where their mojo went, but someone find it and fast.

As for the Oakland game, there’s not much to say. Look, the offense screwed up more than once. Three trips into the red zone that resulted in a field goal, a failed 4^th down conversion and a turnover do not spell world beaters. But at least in crunch time they stepped up. The same cannot be said for the defense.

This game falls squarely on the defense. The defense consistently gave up big play after big play, to a career backup quarterback at home.

They cannot stop big plays, nor can they seem to force turnovers without Troy. The only thing they can do with any semblance of success is prevent opposing running backs from reaching 100 yards of rushing. But any more, I think teams are eschewing the rush to go after Pittsburgh’s exposed secondary. And so far, that has yielded big results for the opposition.

So what is the problem? Why is a unit that looked so dominating last year now at best the middle of the NFL pack? Well it’s like a king size bed with queen size blankets; there are not enough covers to go around.

Troy is out, so they have to cover for him. Aaron Smith goes out so those remaining must cover for him. Larry Foote and Bryant McFadden left, but instead of their replacements taking over, those remaining must cover for the sub par players in their spots. This is especially true in the secondary, where William Gay has proven to be far more ineffectual than advertised.

I said previously that at least this season the Super Bowl defense is going better than in 2006. Now, I wonder. It would seem that the team is getting caught up in a cycle of mediocrity that is self perpetuating. Of course, having Big Ben and Hines having a war of words in the press and Troy questionable for the remainder of the season doesn’t help either.

Maybe I must think 2006, when I went back and watched the Super Bowl XL highlight DVD and it made me feel better. Hey, it’s already like 2006, complete with a crappy loss to the Raiders.

On Tap Tonight

Pittsburgh (6-6) at Cleveland (1-11)

"Hines will do what's best for Hines, I'm sure." – Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger

Hines Ward has a strained hamstring, is listed as questionable and said he will try to play tonight, but it’s doubtful he will. Yes, taste the irony of Hines’ becoming injured a week after questioning Ben’s toughness for not playing. They stated they kissed and made up. But I think Ben’s thinly veiled dig, said earlier in the week, kind of tells everyone that things are still a bit frosty between the two.

Well, playing in Cleveland tonight will not help, with game time temperatures in the low teens and wind chill making it terribly colder. This will be a game of attrition, and one with the season on the line. That flicker of hope I have is as small as my confidence. But hey, as long as it’s still there, we forge ahead….

Steelers over Browns

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 13

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 17:53:00 +0000

In the wake of the Tiger Woods scandal, a new one is brewing that will blow the doors off of Tiger’s Escalade. Peyton Manning has a “transgression” that will rock the sporting world to its core. Peyton prefers…..Visa! Batten down the hatches, kids, this one’s gonna be huge!

Opening Kickoff

Wait a minute; did I really see advertising the other week stating the Titans and Texans comprised the nastiest rivalry in the NFL? Oh no no no, that's just not true. Does no one remember last year’s AFC Championship game? That is the nastiest rivalry in the NFL. And dang it, we lost round one.

The Way It Was

Did everyone else enjoy watching Bill Belichick run up the white flag against the Saints as much as I did? I think Sean Payton should have stuck it to him with multiple late game scores, but he’s not a jerk like good ol’ Bill.

Awww, poor Tom Brady had to take a seat. Now, why don’t they do that in games New England is winning handily?

The Saints may be the most enjoyable and most fun team to watch in the NFL.

Something told me to take Houston over the Colts. Boy am I glad I don’t listen to that voice very often.

Really Andy Reid, an onside kick off to start the game? Dillhole.

Wow, the Eagles really know how to drag out the end of a half. I believe there’s still 15 seconds until halftime left.

Did Indianapolis forget to pack their defense when they traveled to Houston? Oh no wait, they found it. Had it packed under Peyton’s head shots.

And for the umpteenth week in a row, which Panther team will show up? Darn, it’s the crappy one.

The Panthers need to have an intervention with John Fox and his insistence on putting the game in Delhomme’s hands instead of his running backs. Honestly, if you’re not going to switch quarterbacks, then at least play to your strengths.

Now how did I forget Kyle Boller was starting for the Rams? Oh yeah no one knows who plays for the Rams.

Go Chris Redman, revive that career my man!

Really, Jack Del Rio? You’re down by 17 with 7:36 left in the game with a 4^th and goal from the 3 and you attempt a field goal? Yeah that’ll turn the tide.

Boy, San Diego sure was mean piling it on against poor little Kansas City. Funny too how fast the Chiefs returned to form after their big victory over Pittsburgh. Grrrr.

Chris Johnson made wonderful 85 yard touchdown run. Shame it was spoiled on the very next play by the Titans giving up a kick return for a touchdown.

I knew the Wildcat would be useless without Ronnie Brown, and wrong I was not. They used Ricky Williams in the formation at the quarterback role, and he promptly tossed an interception in the end zone.

I think the NFL should amend their officiating rule book and require that no matter the game or weather, Ed Hochuli must always wear a tank top.

The Giants placed linebacker Antonio Pierce on injured reserve with a bulging disk in his neck. At least New York has that Yankees World Series win to savor.

The Browns placed nose tackle Shaun Rogers on injured reserve as well. Like that will make a difference in the crater that is the Browns season.

The Falcons released long time, yet ineffective, kicker Jason Elam. I wonder if the Colts will sign him to back up Matt Stover, who they signed to back up Adam Vinatieri when he was injured.

The NFL established a new set of rules regarding concussions, stating players showing any sign of a concussion may not return to action that day. This is a great step in the right direction regarding this issue. And while I agree with Gregg Easterbrook that more needs to be done (scroll down to the concussion update) let’s look at the positive side here. Finally the NFL is taking this issue seriously and taking action as opposed to their previous stance of ignoring the issue, giving lip service and throwing up smoke screens about the seriousness of head injuries.

Ok, yes, I’ll admit the Steelers handled Ben’s concussion and game status rather sloppily. If he wasn’t good enough to start, he should have been made inactive instead of dressed as the third string quarterback. It looked especially bad compared to the Cardinals, who did not mess around and took Kurt out of the equation all together. But let’s not overlook the important fact that the team did not allow Roethlisberger to play at all. As teams, players and coaches adjust to the new reality of how to handle concussions, there will be mistakes made and clumsy actions. But as long as the end result is that injured players sit, then the NFL and its teams are moving in the right direction.

The Steel Pit

Steelers 17 Ravens 20 OT

I’ll be honest I did not expect much from this game. I figured with Dennis Dixon making his first start on the road in Baltimore, the team reeling a bit and the Ravens looking for some semblance of payback after last year’s demoralizing AFC Championship game loss, Pittsburgh would probably lose.

However, even with expectations at an all time low, it hurt worse than I thought. I was prepared to absorb a loss, but a heartbreaker in overtime? No, I wasn’t ready for that. And I figured right from the start we might have a chance when I saw big Ed Hochuli stride onto the field. That’s always good times.

I said before the game that Baltimore’s plan on defense would be to stack the box and dare Dixon to throw. They did, and Mendenhall made them pay and Dixon showed chutzpah against a fierce rush. Did the Ravens’ plan work? I’d say less than successful.

Considering their obstacles, the offense did quite well. Against a good, if showing its age defense, Rashard Mendenhall had over 100 all purpose yards and looked more and more the number one running back. The line played well and Dennis Dixon did everything asked and a bit more. He did lose some accuracy in the second half, but he still did well, throwing for one touchdown and running for another.

When a backup starts, especially one as raw as Dixon, all you can ask of him is to control the ball, keep the offense moving, make a few big plays and avoid turnovers. And Dixon did this admirably for 60 minutes. Unfortunately no one told Dennis about overtime. Yes, I’m sure he’d love to have that last pass back. But the truth remains, he should have never been in that situation.

I also said Baltimore’s offensive game plan would be to consistently pick on cornerback William Gay and safety Tyrone Carter with intermediate to long passes while hitting Ray Rice on short passes. Unfortunately, I could have been wearing a name tag that said Hello My Name is Nostradamus.

Yes, the defense did limit Ray Rice to very few rushing yards. But what they didn’t limit was the big plays. And those killed the team. The worst was in the 4^th quarter, when Baltimore was stuck in a 3^rd down and 22 yards to go situation while the Steelers held a tumultuous 3 point lead. Baltimore gained 17 yards to set up a 4^th and 5. And what happened? A pass to Ray Rice underneath that resulted in a first down as well as huge gain which set up the game tying field goal.

Everyone needed to step up and play lights out in the absence of both Polamalu and Roethlisberger, but the defense failed at the end, again. This marks the fourth game the defense gave away in the fourth quarter, and it would seem all the replacements, new starters and ages are catching up with the unit. While I know half the teams in the league would love to have this defense in their current shape, as fans we’ve seen them at their best, and this is not it. Perhaps this is just not Pittsburgh’s year. Hey, you cannot win them all I suppose.

And now, the team sits on a three game losing streak and on the outside of the wild card chase. It’s strange to say that, and realize its true, since three weeks ago the Steelers were poised to take over the division. Excuse me while I go attach a car battery to my earlobes and shock myself back to February of this year.

Only In Faux NFL Reality…

So did I hear right during Thursday night’s game? Yankee manager Joe Girardi is helping Mark Sanchez learn to slide? Apparently Sanchez will need some additional lessons.

Ok, now once was annoying, but as a regular segment? No. The Windows 7 seven words to recap segment has got to go; it’s pure awful. Are networks and the NFL that desperate for advertising dollars as to create this new level of ridiculousness? They can't be right? Obviously shame plays no part. I have 7 words I like to use when I see this sort of invasive, blatant advertizing, but you can't say them on television.

Here’s a great article detailing the creation of the first objective test for concussions. Anyone else surprised that once again, the Steelers led the NFL in change for the better?

Two workers doing maintenance at Cowboys Stadium slipped and fell both suffering significant injuries. If I worked for the Cowboys and someone asked me to go up on a roof or in the rafters, I think I’d answer with a definitive hell no.

If I ever have kids, I am not going here when it’s time for their birth. No way, it’s just too creepy.

Vikings running back Adrian Peterson was cited for going 109 mph on a Minneapolis highway last week. Good gravy, why was he going so fast, he’ll never catch Chris Johnson for the rushing title that way.

You know that commercial for NFL Play60 where Drew Brees throws a pass to President Obama while Troy Polamalu defends? I like the commercial, and more importantly the message of getting kids out to play and exercise more. But Troy, with all the injuries you’ve had this season, do you think extra curricular stuff like that is wise? The Madden Curse lives.

Did you hear Jets coach Rex Ryan complaining the other week about the Patriots disrespecting his team by throwing long with the game already in hand? Hey, Rex, I know you spent a few years in the AFC North, but come on. Is this the first time you’ve seen the Patriots? That’s what they do dingbat.

Clear a path people, “genius” coming through! What a jerk.

In Pittsburgh, there is a weekly TV show called the Steelers Huddle. This season they have had revolving hosts, I suspect in an attempt to find a new permanent host. Last year, the host was Hines Ward. This season, they’ve had Ryan Clark, Max Starks and others take a turn. This week, the guest host was kicker Jeff Reed, who performed his duties wearing at t-shirt that said I don’t wanna grow up. No duh Jeff.

Woah, check it out. Steeler country converted actor Jake Gyllenhaal, a long time Patriots fan, into a Steeler fan. Take that Tom Brady.

In The Merry Old Land Of Oz

I lost by 11 points. I started Atlanta’s defense because I figured, against the Buccaneers they might score me some points. They scored 4 points. The Jets defense, however, scored 24.

One of these days, I’ll figure this thing out. But for now, there’s still hope for a winning season record. So here we go!

Upon Further Review

I should have saved the link, but I read in an article this week regarding the Eagles that the NFC East has 11 Lombardi trophies within the division. So I thought, hey, let’s look at all the divisions and see who has the most trophies and how many teams hold them. Just a fun little exercise; after all we don’t have to delve deep into a serious subject every week.

NFC East:

Number of Lombardi Trophies: 11

Teams Won: Cowboys (5) Giants (3) Redskins (3)

NFC North:

Number of Lombardi Trophies: 4

Teams Won: Packers (3) Bears (1)

NFC West:

Number of Lombardi Trophies: 6

Teams Won: 49ers (5) Rams (1)

NFC South:

Number of Lombardi Trophies: 1

Teams Won: Buccaneers (1)

AFC East:

Number of Lombardi Trophies: 6

Teams Won: Patriots (3) Dolphins (2) Jets (1)

AFC North:

Number of Lombardi Trophies: 7

Teams Won: Steelers (6) Ravens (1)

AFC West:

Number of Lombardi Trophies: 6

Teams Won: Raiders (3) Broncos (2) Chiefs (1)

AFC South:

Number of Lombardi Trophies: 2

Teams Won: Colts (2)

What did I find interesting? There were more trophies in the AFC West than I realized. A handful of teams are really hogging all the glory. And if you’re a fan of a team in either South division, it’s been a lonely time. Well, lonely for those fans and Browns and Bungle fans.

He Said He Said

“You gotta flush that thing to become a hole” – Matt Millen on Thursday Night Football

That’s what she said.

''Please don't talk to me about moral victories and things of that nature.'' – Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin

Yo, Mike, I only want to talk of actual victories. Think we can do that this week?

"Any time you have a lead in the fourth quarter and lose, it stinks." – Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel

Been quite a bit stinking lately.

“Not even close.'' - Carolina quarterback Jake Delhomme on if he’s had a season as frustrating.

Until next season, if one exists for Jake.

"I've spoken to no teams and don't intend to do so while there is a current head coach.'' – CBS NFL analyst Bill Cowher

Say it with me Bill, Show Me The Money!

"Anybody that sees us coming, they better bring their best, because that's what we're bringing to the table.” - Steelers offensive tackle Willie Colon

Willie, tell the defense it’s time to bring their share to the table as well.

"We will unleash hell here in December." – Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin

Since most of November has been rather hellish, why not?

"I almost couldn't do it, because I was peeing my pants. I'm serious." – Titans owner Bud Adams on watching his team’s game winning drive

Uhhh, yeah. Make up your own Depends joke here, I’m leaving this one alone.

“It's not fun but you can get knee replacement surgery, you can have rotator cuff surgeries, but you can't get a new brain.” – Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger

Excellent point Ben, although if that ever becomes an option I’ve got a list of people I’d like to submit.

"I think it's probably one of the friendliest cities I've spent time in in America and I've really enjoyed that. Maybe it's because I'm an outsider and I see things a little clearer, but nobody ever talks about the beauty of the architecture in Pittsburgh, the churches, the steeples." – actor Russell Crowe talking about Pittsburgh

Thanks Russell. Maybe if someone like you extols the virtues of this great city, everyone else will finally get what I’ve said for years, and understand why this place is beyond great and one of the best places to live in the world.

Idiot of the week

I’ve detected several patterns in idiots this year. It’s full of guys who punch, Eric Mangini, and sadly Steelers.

This week’s winner is one of my favorite players, receiver Hines Ward. Unless you’ve been on the moon, by now you’ve heard Ward’s comments regarding Ben Roethlisberger, his concussion and missing Sunday night’s game at Baltimore.

Ward spent all week performing damage control, and while he may be honest in his assertion that his comments were out of frustration and misconstrued, the damage is still done.

By opening his yap in the first place, Ward created a maelstrom of controversy over an already white hot topic. Everyone and their nephew chimed in deriding Hines and his opinions. If it weren’t for Tiger and his transgressions, it would probably have been the big topic of the week.

Not only that, but by questioning Roethlisberger’s courage, and if you ask me it takes more to admit to having a concussion, he made Ben look bad in front of everyone. And anyway, how can anyone even question Roethlisberger at this point? He willingly stands behind an offensive line that routinely gives up sacks. If that’s not brave, what is? Plus, it wasn’t even Ben’s call to sit out; it was the doctor’s call.

The whole episode made Hines look even dumber when you take into account that he fully supported Ryan Clark when he sat out the Denver game because it risked his long term health. Hines, playing could potentially risk Ben’s long term health, what’s the difference my man?

Ward’s statements were ignorant and uninformed at best, and irresponsible and divisive at worst. Don’t get me wrong, I love Ward and way he plays the game. But his attitude and opinions reflect a culture in the NFL that is long overdue in changing, and at least now grudgingly headed toward that very change. I’m glad in some way he apologized to Ben, and has made some attempts at fixing the mess, but that doesn’t change one simple fact. This week, Hines you are an idiot.

On Tap This Week

I kept thinking last week I was getting creamed, but overall, the damage was not too bad.

Last week: 10-6

This week: 1-0

Season to date: 125-52

It wasn’t great though, as I lost most close games, and on top of that the cat at the top extended his lead. Ouch. Well, it ain’t over, I hear no fat lady warming up yet. And yes, my win/loss totals have been slightly adjusted. Realized somewhere I messed up the math. Apparently simple addition is beyond me some days.

Sunday

Philadelphia (7-4) at Atlanta (6-5)

I think Andy Reid is planning on starting this game off with a pooch punt. Regardless, how confident do you feel in Chris Redman starting his first game in almost two years? Me either.

Eagles over Falcons

Tampa Bay (1-10) at Carolina (4-7)

Ugh. Well, I’m going with Carolina, but I will not be surprised if Josh Freeman pulls out a plucky win on the road. I hate the Panthers so much right now.

Panthers over Buccaneers

St. Louis (1-10) at Chicago (4-7)

Hey, Cutler can beat St. Louis, right? Ha ha ha!

Bears over Rams

Detroit (2-9) at Cincinnati (8-3)

I know Larry Foote is accustomed to beating the Bungles, but I think like his former team, he’ll be sorely disappointed come Sunday evening.

Bungles over Lions

Tennessee (5-6) at Indianapolis (11-0)

Indianapolis has been winning with overachieving rookies, Peyton playing at MVP levels and a large dollop of luck. Plus with the division and a playoff spot locked up, they can pretty much cruise to the number one seed. Tennessee has been riding Chris Johnson’s cape backed by a newly confident Vince Young and are fighting for an outside hope at a wild card spot. I’m talking myself into something crazy….

Titans over Colts

Houston (5-6) at Jacksonville (6-5)

Grrrr. It doesn’t matter who I pick in this one, the other team will win. Some games just chaff my rear. This is one of them.

Jaguars over Texans

Denver (7-4) at Kansas City (3-8)

Yeah, I know. Denver has a crappy record against the Chiefs in Kansas City during the month of December. So what? For the past few years, the Chiefs have a crappy record in Kansas City from September through December.

Broncos over Chiefs

Oakland (3-8) at Pittsburgh (6-5)

Big Ben is back, the team is at home and a long time hated rival is invading Heinz Field. It’s time to put this season back on the right track and get in position for a playoff spot. Now.

Steelers over Raiders

New England (7-4) at Miami (5-6)

Hmmm, gee, since Belichick despises division opponents, and Miami is shorthanded without Ronnie Brown, I wonder what will happen…

Patriots over Dolphins

New Orleans (11-0) at Washington (3-8)

Next stop on the Saints Express, our nation’s capital. Boy, this bandwagon is super comfortable and comes with every amenity.

Saints over Redskins

San Diego (8-3) at Cleveland (1-10)

If Norv Turner cannot beat Cleveland, then he’s a worse coach than Eric Mangini. Well, even if he does that debate may still rage in my own head.

Chargers over Browns

Dallas (8-3) at New York Giants (6-5)

Ok, yeah, Romo and the Cowboys have had middling success in December. But right now, New York would give Eli’s right foot for middling success.

Cowboys over Giants

San Francisco (5-6) at Seattle (4-7)

I’m sorry I doubted you last week, Mike Singletary. I will not make the same mistake this week.

49ers over Seahawks

Minnesota (10-1) at Arizona (7-4)

Oh wow, as soon as he takes the field, Brett Favre will break yet another record this one for most consecutive starts. Peter King will then explode.

Vikings over Cardinals

Monday

Baltimore (6-5) at Green Bay (7-4)

Is Baltimore’s defense still a world beater? No. Is Green Bay’s offensive line better? No. But I still like the Pack at home, and not just because it’s good for Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes. But that does help.

Packers over Ravens

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 13 Thursday Night Special

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 02:24:00 +0000

Woo hoo, it’s our first December game of 2009. The regular season rapidly approaches its zenith as we forge toward the playoff entrant end game.

And what better way to kick off the month of December football than heading north of the border? That’s right, tonight’s game will be held in Canada, with the Toronto, I mean Buffalo, Bills hosting the New York Jets. The star of stars TO will be wowing the hosers as only he can, because after all, the Bills are North America’s team.

You know what I like about Canada? The space. The land mass of Canada is huge, 3,512,524 square miles to be exact. And their population is 33,864,000. I think there’s twice as many people than that in the Lower East Side.

That’s a wicked amount of space per person. And I know what you’re thinking, oh so what, it’s winter up there like half the year. So what? I’m sure there are more than a few people crammed into a sardine box in East LA that would gladly trade a bit of nice weather for some elbow room.

Everyone touts about their health care system, beer, hockey, comedians or generally funny accents, but I love Canada because it’s huge. Break me off a piece, I need a winter home.

On Tap Tonight

New York Jets (5-6) at Buffalo (4-7)

Ok, how about some actual game items then, eh? Buffalo, with an interim coach, has suddenly found an offensive spark with Fitzpatrick and Owens. I love the combination of these two. One is Ivy League, the other Division II yet in the NFL worlds come together. How about that for a Christmas story? On the other hand, the Jets’ defense awoke from a slumber last week and Matt Sanchez, well, he’s still a rookie. There is no home field advantage, and both teams seem schizophrenic when it comes to playing well, and I know I’ll regret this but….

Jets over Bills

The Crystal Ball Week 12

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:54:00 +0000

Boy seems this week’s offering is feeling a bit light and showing a lack of proper effort. Well, that’s what happens when you’re weighed down with approximately 10 tons of turkey and stuffing. It was worth it though, those leftovers are still delicious. And hey, it’s not like there’s nothing good in here this week. Come on in, make a turkey sandwich and enjoy.

Opening Kickoff

Did everyone watch the primetime game Thursday night at Denver? Josh McDaniels said a swear…..

The Way It Was

Overtime is the word is the word.

Well that and missed field goals. Was it just me or did it seem kickers were choking left and right? And not just ones named Brown.

Boy, it’s a bad time to be in Houston and named Kris Brown. Or Chris Brown for that matter either.

Was I surprised about Terrell Owens scoring a 98 yard touchdown? No. Was I surprised I haven’t heard about it all week? Yes.

Really Dallas? At home against a Washington team without Betts and Portis as offensive threats and the best you can muster is one touchdown?

I give Singletary credit; the 49ers were down big but fought back to within one score with 6 minutes left in Green Bay. They didn’t have enough to go over the top, but they’re still fighting.

And Green Bay had best find some fight, especially since they’ve lost Al Harris and Aaron Kampman for the season.

I don’t know if I should give Atlanta credit for fighting the Giants into overtime, or say New York stinks for needing overtime to finish the Falcons off.

Denver brings in Orton off the bench for a Willis Reed moment. Although it only worked for a moment as the Chargers proceeded to discect Denver.

Another Charger/Bronco game, another big red zone call. Where’s ed Hochuli when you need him?

I’m glad the Eagles kept Westbrook on the shelf and hope they continue to do so. The man’s long term health is at stake. Unfortunately, they should have done that sooner.

Ok, which is more fun? That the Colts defense won the game for them, instead of the offense, by limiting the Ravens to field goals, that a missed field goal by the Ravens doomed them or that the winning field goal points for the Colts were scored by Matt Stover, the long time Raven who was cut in the off season? I’m going with all three.

The best game of the season was played last week in Detroit, and no one saw it. 9 touchdown passes between Brady Quinn and Matt Stafford and a thrilling last second victory for Detroit. Just the highlights alone were worth the price of admission. Plus, Stafford coming back in after having his non throwing shoulder crushed to finish off the win, how great was that? I’m telling Detroit fans right now, with Stafford behind center you will win at least one more game this season. You’ve got a gamer there.

The Steel Pit

Steelers 24 – Kansas City 27 OT

Ok, this one is on me. I forgot to launder my jersey after the Bungles loss, and the stink of that one hung around for a second week. Please note I’ve laundered this week so…..

I’m not breaking this one down. If you saw it, you know who’s fault the loss hangs on, everyone. The team looked unprepared, played poorly, executed sloppily and in general just looked as though they felt showing up would be enough to garner victory. It was not.

The team played lackadaisical and took mindless, undisciplined penalties. And if looking terrible and losing the game weren’t enough, then the real indignity and damage occurred. First, Big Ben took a knee to the head and suffered a concussion. And while all week he passed the appropriate tests, he suffered headaches later on and now will be sitting out Sunday. No problem, right, we have Charlie Batch! No we don’t. Batch went into the game, his first regular season action in 2 seasons, and promptly breaks his wrist.

Now we go into Baltimore, where they’re still pissed over last season and in general, with 3^rd string Dennis Dixon starting and recently signed CFL player Tyler Palko as his back up. As the saying goes, you make hay while the sun shines. Well, the sun was shining against the Bears, Bungles and Chiefs and the barn remained empty. Now, the clouds are forming and what is the team going to do?

I want to know one thing; no one has Jeff Garcia’s number?

Only In Faux NFL Reality…

The venerable Pontiac Silverdome was sold at auction last week for $583,000. If I had known the price would be so low, I’d have broken into my change jar.

It’s safe to say I’m an Alyson Hannigan fan. I think she’s funny and quite the cutie. But I don’t want her stealing air time in my Peyton Manning commercials! There’s so few this season as it is, I want all the Peyton I can get!

And I’m glad we’re finally seeing some new commercials.

Bill Cowher turned down a request for interview from the Bills, but did express interest in coaching the Bears or Texans. Come on Bill, just get over it and head to Cleveland.

Mike Shanahan had a two day interview in Buffalo. I think Mike could do some good in Buffalo, but with the cold weather how would he maintain his year-round tan?

Why did Andy Reid spend the entire Bears game with a towel around his neck? Was he suffering from meat sweats or something? I suppose it’s better than his usual flop sweat.

In The Merry Old Land Of Oz

One, measly, stinking lousy point. I lost by one point. The winning streak and the comeback were abruptly halted by one point. All I needed was someone to generate one point and all would have been right with the world. Alas, that was not to be.

This week, I go up against the cat with Drew Brees who tore me a new one at the beginning of the season. What will I learn this week? History repeats itself, I fear.

Upon Further Review

With all the movement in the last two weeks, it would appear the NFL is finally taking the issue of concussions seriously. Goodell has been on a mission to get the word out and make necessary changes. He’s brought up having players evaluated by independent neurosurgeons and neurologists, mandating better helmets and getting new leadership on the medical counsel for the NFL that sets policies on concussions. Goodell spoke on the NFL Network saying he wants players to stand up and say when they do not feel right to keep them safe. Well Goodell should be ecstatic this week as he finally has his poster boy, Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

Big Ben’s situation is exactly what Goodell wanted, and what the league needs. Roethlisberger took a knee to the head in last week’s overtime loss to Kansas City, and showed signs of a concussion. Although after the game he seemed lucid and said he was fine. Early in the week, he passed all post concussion tests, maintained he felt fine and was expected to play. But after practice on Wednesday and Thursday, Roethlisberger developed headaches and became concerned. Although he passed the tests, he did not feel right.

So he stood up and said so. The Steelers coaching and medical staffs, to their credit, said if you don’t feel right, then we ride without you and you get yourself healthy. I for one am happy as all get out about it. I know, that sounds odd to say a person is happy their franchise quarterback will spend a vital division game in civilian clothes but it’s true.

Yes, it hurts Pittsburgh’s chances for victory this week. But a long term healthy Big Ben helps them immeasurably for years to come. And I’d rather have one loss in the short term than a permanent one in the long term. And in the macrocosm of the NFL, this move will lead the way for many other players. If guys who don’t feel right can look at Roethlisberger, a big name player, as a role model then they may not be so hesitant to stand up as well and say they do not feel right. They won’t be so afraid to talk candidly with their team about their condition or feel pressured to rush back before they’re healthy. This could lead to many great players extending their careers because they are properly healed, instead of seeing them either shorten their careers, or play too long and spend retirement in a punch drunk state.

Kudos to Goodell for finally addressing this issue properly and helping develop a culture in which players can come forward, kudos to Big Ben for standing up and being the first big name to say I don’t feel right and kudos to the Steelers for listening and taking appropriate action. Let’s hope this spark turns into a bonfire to light a healthier and safer future in the NFL. And I hope Kurt Warner would follow the same lead, but it would appear he is not. Change takes time, but at least finally the NFL is on the same track.

He Said He Said

"I take responsibility for that performance. I have to have this football team better prepared to play." – Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin

Then get cracking, because time is ticking. And nice job taking responsibility. It’s always refreshing having a coach who says the buck stops here. It’s a concept Cleveland fans are unfamiliar with.

“Lawrence Tynes had a nice long field goal” – Giants head coach Tom Coughlin after the loss at Denver.

Boy that's reaching for something positive.

“It's the NFL Network, it doesn't surprise me.” – Broncos head coach Josh McDaniels’ reaction to the NFLN broadcasting him swearing on the sidelines

It doesn't change the fact that you used a swear josh, and a really naughty one! For shame, FOR SHAME! Ok, I didn’t care, actually I found it hilarious. But you know someone had a hissy fit about it.

“Ed Hochuli’s got some guns on him” – Vikings defensive end Jared Allen

Duh!

"It takes a tremendous amount of energy, but there is a certain appeal there." – Mike Holmgren on the possibility of working in some capacity for the Browns

What, exactly, would that appeal be Mike?

"We are capable of much more than that. That is not us and it won't be us.” – Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin

Show me.

Idiot of the week

Easily the winner here has to be Eric Mangini. I guess the guy enjoyed winning so much he came back for more.

This one is too easy. With Detroit’s wunderkind quarterback sidelined on the last play of the game, Mangini called a time out to bitch to the referees about the obvious pass interference call on the previous play that put Detroit on Cleveland’s 1 yard line for an untimed end of the game play. Stafford before the time out had left with an injury, and Detroit faced trying to win the game with the cold Daunte Culpepper under center as no player can return to the game from injury for at least one play or unless either team calls a time out. Detroit was out of them, but Cleveland was not. Unfortunately for Cleveland fans, who I’m sure started drinking rat poison at this point, Mangini obliged, Stafford streaked back onto the field and threw the game tying touchdown.

Why exactly did Mangini call that time out? All it did was give the Lions a chance to put Stafford back on the field and win the game. He would have been better off saving his complaints for after the game and letting Detroit proceed with Culpepper who has not played at all. But there is only one reason why Mangini called that time out. Because Eric Mangini, you are an idiot.

On Tap This Week

Finally, FINALLY, I got back on track…

Last week: 13-3

This week: 2-1

Season to date: 117-49

That’s a sweet looking number! Now I stand but one game out of first place with just a scant 6 weeks to go. Thank you Mr. Cowboy I’ll take it under advisement. Hit it again.

Sunday

Miami (5-5) at Buffalo (3-7)

Yeah, I’m gonna go with Miami, although something tells me whomever I pick will be wrong.

Dolphins over Bills

Washington (3-7) at Philadelphia (6-4)

Perhaps Philadelphia can do better than Dallas against a crappy team at home.

Eagles over Redskins

Tampa Bay (1-9) at Atlanta (5-5)

Ok Atlanta, this is where you turn things around. And if you don’t, it’s all over.

Falcons over Buccaneers

Seattle (3-7) at St. Louis (1-9)

Ewww.

Rams over Seahawks

Carolina (4-6) at New York Jets (4-6)

These two teams are exactly the same. Whenever I pick them, they lose and when I don’t they win big. I give up.

Panthers over Jets

Cleveland (1-9) at Cincinnati (7-3)

I’d like to see the Bungles lose, but come on, it’s the Browns.

Bungles over Browns

Indianapolis (10-0) at Houston (5-5)

Sorry, I see good things in Houston, and I was going to give them a chance. But no, Peyton is on a roll and with new commercials out, fired up.

Colts over Texans

Kansas City (3-7) at San Diego (7-3)

Pittsburgh beat San Diego and Kansas City beat Pittsburgh, so KC should beat San Diego, right? Wrong.

Chargers over Chiefs

Jacksonville (6-4) at San Francisco (4-6)

I feel bad for Mike Singletary, but his team just doesn’t have the horses yet. Yet.

Jaguars over 49ers

Chicago (4-6) at Minnesota (9-1)

Hmmm, how many picks will Cutler throw in this one? If it’s over 4, can we finally stop the Cutler is a franchise quarterback talk, please?

Vikings over Bears

Arizona (7-3) at Tennessee (4-6)

I don’t think Warner should be playing, at all. The Tennessee freight train picks up more speed.

Titans over Cardinals

Pittsburgh (6-4) at Baltimore (5-5)

I still maintain the Baltimore defense is merely a shell of itself. Two losses in a row mean massive disrespect for the defending super bowl champions. And now both of Pittsburgh’s leaders are on the shelf with injuries. This is a game where the men are separated from the boys.

Steelers over Ravens

Monday

New England (7-3) at New Orleans (10-0)

Easily this is the game of the week. And no, I am not hopping off the Saints band wagon. It’s just getting good on here!

Saints over Patriots

The Crystal Ball Week 12 Thanksgiving Special

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 05:14:00 +0000

Welcome one and all to the 2009 season Thanksgiving feast! Yes, in modern times we should all be thankful that the NFL serves up three heaping helpings of NFL action for us to stare at as the tryptophan kicks in after a lovely meal with family and friends. Oh how delicious it is.

But before we get to dishing out the goodies, I must touch on a debate that has gained steam in recent years and reiterate my position once again. With their putrid record for, well, decades and awful performances in recent years, the debate has been raised that the Lions should not be featured on Thanksgiving, and instead be replaced by more competitive games and better teams. I say meh to this nonsense and never want to see the Lions lose their Thanksgiving game.

First off, do we really need or want a competitive game on Thanksgiving Day? Short answer, no we do not. Football on Thanksgiving is merely background anyway, a center point for men and boys to gather while they chew the fat and tell tall tales with the occasional glance at the game. It also serves as a focal point while the turkey digests and satiated diners drift off into afternoon naps. Football is not meant to be the focal point of the day, but merely another aspect, much like the parade or pumpkin pie. The focal point is giving thanks for the good things in your life while breaking bread with your family and friends. Football? Let’s just call it a delicious snack on which to graze.

Secondly, why hate on the Lions just because they stink, does tradition mean nothing? Many moons ago, when the NFL first conceived of the Thanksgiving Day game, the Lions stood tall and accepted the challenge. Yes it would mean the players, coaches and staff would be away from family and friends on this day. Yes it would mean having to play a short week every year. And yes, it would mean working while everyone else relaxed and ate. But their work and sacrifice gave the rest of us entertainment, no matter the quality, for years now establishing one of the best traditions in sports.

Everyone knows the Lions play on Thanksgiving, always have and always should. For those of us who have always known this, it would be like removing a hallowed tradition. Imagine Thanksgiving without turkey, (yes I know my vegetarian friends, this is not difficult for you but you get my drift I hope) or without the Macy’s parade, cranberry sauce or afternoon naps. Sure I suppose you could, but why would you want to? You might as well nix Santa from Christmas, the ball dropping on New Years and trees from Arbor Day as well. I know some traditions become old, stale, outdated or just out of touch. But sometimes, even those still hold meaning and the day would be less without those traditions than with them. The Lions on Thanksgiving certainly fall into this category.

And lastly, Detroit has so little when it comes to football and in many other areas as well. Why take this away from them? Let them have their moment in the sun and enjoy their national exposure. Who knows when the team will be good enough again to grab a featured game on Sunday or Monday night? So to the NFL, I ask, nay beg, leave well enough alone. The world contains too much change. Leave this tradition in place and let the Lions have their day. If you do, I’ll save a place at our table for you. The turkey’s almost done and the game is on, come on over.

On The Menu Today

Green Bay (6-4) at Detroit (2-8)

Matt Stafford’s heroic return to the game to steal the win last week will go down in Lions’ lore and heaven knows they need some modern day lore. Stafford showed he’s at least a gamer, and hopefully the franchise quarterback the team needs to build around. But they’re still a long way away from being relevant, or even mediocre. And with Aaron Rodgers making faster decisions as of late, Green Bay moves back firmly into the wild card race.

Packers over Lions

Oakland (3-7) at Dallas (7-3)

Amazing what a quarterback who can lead and wants to play can do for a team. Can the Raiders steal one in Big D? Possibly, you never know, especially considering the offensive display Romo and company presented against the lowly Redskins last week. But, it’s Thanksgiving, Romo has shown a penchant for playing big on Turkey Day, and I’ll go home team here.

Cowboys over Raiders

New York Giants (6-4) at Denver (6-4)

Another wonderfully presented dish by the NFL Network. Honestly, I swear sometimes watching games on NFLN; they hired people who know nothing about production value. Honestly, are their games a training ground for production crews looking to get a job with a network? But I digress.

Denver is cratering fast, and the Giants are teetering on the precipice of joining them. I’d say Denver has a chance playing at home, but with a gimpy Orton and after their dismantling last week, I just cannot have confidence in them. Not that I have that much confidence in New York, but at least they squeezed out a win last week.

Giants over Broncos

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 11

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 16:38:00 +0000

What happened in Indianapolis last week? I heard something about a bad call, but there’s been hardly any post game press I haven’t been able to get a clear understanding. Could someone let me know, I’m curious.

Opening Kickoff

If you want to be considered a top team, you must dominate week in and week out. You cannot take a week off nor have intermittent performances. Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Denver, Dallas, Chicago, New England and Carolina all had opportunities in the last week to throw a definitive gauntlet down and state, come and get some. All failed miserably. If you cannot deliver against other prominent teams, you are not top tier, but mid round playoff cannon fodder.

We’re headed toward a final championship round of Indianapolis and either Minnesota or New Orleans as things stand. And unless one of the teasing teams from above step up and assert themselves, be prepared for more Favre/Brees/Manning hype than you ever thought possible.

The Way It Was

The Broncos are not so much falling back to earth as rocketing at break neck speed.

And I hate to say it, but no Neck Beard, big problem.

The same goes for Atlanta without Michael Turner.

Jets, you are officially dead to me. You cannot beat an opponent, at home, after a week of rest?

How about Maurice Jones-Drew taking a knee instead of scoring a touchdown? Brilliant football strategy move, extremely smart, the coaches get gold stars for being very aware of clock management, the Jets time out situation and dictating how the end game would play out. Color me impressed. Andy Reid, for the sake of Eagles fans everywhere please take notes.

And I’ll go one step further, anyone who argues differently, and there has been a few prominent people blathering on about it, either doesn’t know football strategy or is a cheesed off fantasy owner, period.

I might have to rethink my opinion on the Jaguars. It might be time to give them a chance.

How come Saints had so many fits from rams? I guess it is hard to win every week. Yet, here they are winning every week.

It has been decided. The official results are in, and the winner of the overrated coach underachieving with a good team bowl is Andy Reid. Andy, have a cheese steak and if it doesn’t give you a cardiac infarction, a victory lap.

Down by 14 on the road in the second quarter with 4^th and goal on the 1, Andy Reid of course girds his loins, let’s the ice water flow through his veins and…..kicks the field goal! At the very least, Reid is consistent. But once again Andy, in case you missed it, you do NOT win games settling for field goals.

A note the other team from Pennsylvania should take well to heart, me thinks.

Brian Westbrook came back last week and promptly suffered another concussion. Eagles, for his sake please sit him for the remainder of the season. He’s not healed and you’re piling damage on damage. Did no one read last week’s column?

Shockingly, the Chargers have overcome their annual early season swoon to charge into a tie for the division lead, which was once thought insurmountable. I cannot wait for their annual playoff collapse as well.

Boy, it just seems like the Cardinals want to screw the home fans, no?

Roy Williams, a few notes. Number one receivers do not drop first down catches, nor do they fumble balls on the way to the end zone. You want to be considered better than Austin, make the plays your position as “number one” dictates.

Yeah, the Cowboys losing Marc Columbo to a broken fibula hurts. But as saying goes, the standard is the standard, and the Cowboys seem allergic to that.

The Emperor, I mean Bill Belichick, has made a critical error and the time for our attack has come. You know what, I think if people hadn’t suffered for years from Belichick’s surly, superior attitude he would not have received near the flack for his 4^th and 2 call as he did. Actually I think there are still people complaining about it right now.

The best part of this play call has yet to come. We’ll see it the next time Belichick calls to go for it on fourth down and every Patriot fan tenses up and prepares to vomit and if the Pats should not convert, go into raving hysterics over it. Now that will be high comedy.

Brady Quinn knocked Terrell Suggs out of game with a low hit after an interception, drawing the ire of Ray Lewis. Quinn just cannot do anything right.

Ravens safety Haruki Nakamura broke ankle on opening kickoff and was lost for the game and season. Amazingly, this team that went to the AFC Championship game last year is looking even worse especially once you factor in they had a terrible first half and barely pulled it together for a 16-0 win. Hey Baltimore, this is Cleveland, not Cincinnati you dopes.

The Steel Pit

Didn’t I bust the Eagles chops last week for losing at home against a division opponent with the division lead on the line? Yes I did. Well, welcome to the personally painful sequel.

Steelers 12 – Bungles 18

Ok, so what happened? They had moments where they looked alright. Who should hang their head in shame? Let’s roll through the suspects.

1) The Defense – nope, sorry but they’re off the hook on this one. They held a very good offensive team to 12 total points, none of them touchdowns. And they did it without the services of Troy Polamalu while knocking Cedric Benson out of the game. The defense did fine. Although Timmons had best get some speed, I’m ready to see Keyaron Fox more often playing inside linebacker.

2) The offense – They did not look good, no doubt. But they did have some success moving the ball. Everything went out the window when they hit the red zone. I would not blame them for the loss, but they didn’t help.

3) Big Ben – Let’s face it, Roethlisberger had a bad day. His passes either sailed high or fell short, he looked uncomfortable in the pocket all day and never quite found a rhythm with his receivers. But every once in a while even the great ones put up a stinker and I’d rather have Roethlisberger and the occasional bad day than anyone else.

4) Bruce Arians – My biggest problems with Arians were giving up on the run too early, he only called 16 total running plays, and his bad management of the last drive. I understood time was of the essence on the final drive, but he didn't need to go for big home run plays on both 2nd and 3rd down. He had enough time to just keep the ball moving. Yes, 10 yard gains in the middle of the field will not work when ultimately the end zone is required, but if you chip away a bit and keep the chains moving, going for the home run ball is much easier from the opponents 25 than your own 33. Still the onus of defeat is not solely on Bruce.

5) Special Teams – Here you go. Sure, Jeff Reed made another pathetic tackle attempt, but if he has to keep trying to tackle the damage is already done. And yes, the Bungles seemed content to throw illegal blocks on every return, but still that is no excuse. The units allowed another return touchdown and constant good field position all day. Here’s your culprit.

This week Pittsburgh cut special teams stalwart Arnold Harrison who has been with the team through two Super Bowls. Will this fix the problem? No, but I believe it sends a message. No one is safe and everyone had best shape up fast. Let’s hope it works.

But I think this week is a good one for Steeler fans to sit back, relax, take a very deep breath and let it go. Look, so far the team is doing relatively well despite injuries and not having found a true identity offensively. And most likely will end up having a good season and still make the playoffs. At minimum, the Super Bowl title defense is going much better than it did in 2006, which goes a long way in my book. But just call us Steeler fans spoiled, because at this point we are accustomed to a certain lifestyle, and that lifestyle includes winning big and pounding on the Bungles. The latter has not happened this season.

The good news from the game is that Troy Polamalu had an MRI performed on his reinjured left knee, revealing a PCL strain and could be back in 2-3 weeks. Yeesh, I hope he doesn’t work his way around to the ACL. Good gravy why did I say that out loud? I will now tear mine with my bare hands to avoid a possible jinx.

Only In Faux NFL Reality…

Jon Gruden will be extending his stay on Monday Night Football, signing a new contract this week through 2011. I guess he found out what Bill Cowher did, it’s much more enjoyable to watch football and get paid for it, and far more enjoyable to make a mistake and not have an entire fan base give you a gypsy curse.

Opening the foray of coaching changes, and being in the first spot in the coaching carousel, the Bills fired head coach Dick Jauron. They promoted their defensive coordinator to interim head coach, I suppose because he was the only coach left.

In working hard to destroy what has been build, the Bungles signed ostracized running back Larry Johnson as a 4^th string insurance policy. Yeah right, like Johnson’s going to happily live with that status for long. I can’t wait for that cancer to destroy the locker room.

Mean Joe Greene and Tommy Okon received Clio awards for their famous 1979 Coca Cola commercial. Still is one of the greatest commercials ever.

Russell Crowe was in attendance of the Bungles/Steelers game Sunday, taking a break from the film he is working on in the Pittsburgh area. Unfortunately, he did not unleash hell on the Bungles. Maybe things would have gone better for the home team had he smacked Carson Palmer upside the head with a telephone.

Seminal rock band The Who was named the halftime act for Super Bowl 44. Ok, I get it commissioner Goodell you want to avoid the Jackson/Timberlake controversy. But come on, can we get anyone who has been relevant in the last 20 years at least?

Titans’ owner Bud Adams had a blast at the Monday night game against the Texans, happily flipping the bird to Buffalo fans in attendance. I don’t even have a joke. You stay classy there Tennessee.

Seahawks head coach Jim Mora Jr. submitted a list of complaints to the league’s officiating office about calls he felt were erroneous and the state of officiating during the Seahawks/Cardinals game. First complaint, the Seahawks coach sucks.

Message to Chiefs coach Todd Haley, quit being an ass. For yet another week, cameras caught Haley corn holing another player on the sidelines, this time Matt Cassel. And this was in a game Cassel played decently and the Chiefs won. Todd, just so you know eventually players tire of these shenanigans and quit on coaches who act like that, especially if they're not successful. We get it, you're in charge. Now move on butt bag.

Apparently, the NFL competition committee is big on expanding the schedule, and looks to be leaning on making the season 18 games long. Now, I want to know how this will work from an injury stand point. Right now during 16 game seasons, almost every team is reeling from serious season ending injuries, or multiple week injuries, of key players. Look at this short list I complied.

Troy Polamalu, Kyle Orton, Jordan Gross, Michael Turner , Cedric Benson, Brian Urlacher, Kris Jenkins, Chris Henry, Marc Columbo, Ronnie Brown, Brian Westbrook, Haruki Nakamura, Joshua Cribbs, Terrell Suggs.

That list was complied off the top of my head. It could be 4 times as long. Take a gander through each team’s injury report and get a real idea of hurt players. What will happen when players must go longer, harder and open themselves up for more risk? And do you honestly think players, even if they take on the added risk of injury, players will be satisfied with their current contracts? Oh no, they’ll want more money per season to cover the added risk, which will cheese the owners off to not only have to shell out more money per player, but also eventually more money overall to cover depth needed when players go down from injury, and count on it they will. All this perceived extra profit owners think they’ll make will be tied up in additional salary and potentially lose them money. If you ask me, all this has the potential to do is get players injured, shorten careers, and create a scenario when we see a bunch of practice squad guys playing vital roles in big games because the bench is littered with injured stars. The NFL wants to protect the shield, but how is that possible by further diluting the product?

The NFL popped Chad Ochocinco with a $20,000 fine for his faux bribe of an official. Ok, I get it; they do not want any kind of association with gambling. But does it not seem odd they would smack Chad with that large a fine and only hit up Tommie Harris $7,500 for punching a guy in the head?

In The Merry Old Land Of Oz

Once again, love watching my team go without a point for hours on end. Mercifully, I got to watch my opponent do exactly the same thing.

But hey, I cannot complain too much, I’m on a three week roll, have reached the wonderful .500 mark and climbing the rankings. And most importantly, I learned something new to impart this week.

The fantasy football experts who give advice on who to start and who to sit know jack squat. I know, big surprise, and I pretty much figured that one out already. But it came into sharp focus when I went to pick my kicker last week. I went with Jeff Reed, even though the experts were saying he’s no better than a spot fill in during bye weeks. What happened was 12 big points from the partying one. So the next week, the expert advice said Jeff should continue to be considered a number one fantasy option. Huh? Amazing how that status can change so rapidly.

I say ignore them and go with your own instincts. If you know football, you’ll be fine. If you’re playing because you’re in some goofy office pool, well then I suppose you can consult the experts and hope for the best. Hey, chances are everyone else in the pool will be too.

Upon Further Review

In case you missed it, and I suppose the only way that’s possible was if you were in a sensory deprivation chamber all week, Bill Belichick went for it on 4^th down and failed, leading to a painful loss at Indianapolis. The sports world was on fire this week, lambasting Belichick for making the call and losing the game. I’ve heard great argument for and against the call from Gregg Easterbrook and Bill Simmons, and feel they both have valid points. I loved the call, but not the play called itself. I think coaches should be gutsier when it comes to calling plays, but too many are too scared of getting raked over the coals if it doesn’t work. And considering how badly Belichick was, too many will be too afraid to do it again.

Not every call is going to work, whether it’s a first down run at the beginning of September or a 2 point conversion to tie the super bowl in the waning minutes. But it takes a bit of fortitude to not only take the risk, but to stand tall before the man if it does not. Was going for it right? Who knows? Maybe Manning would have marched right down the field for 80 yards and the game winner. Maybe the tired Patriot defense would have held. Maybe aliens would have come and took Peyton back to his home planet. Maybe Jim Caldwell would have moved a muscle. It’s easy to second guess, but hard to take a chance and then withstand the fury if you fail. That’s why I liked the call.

On top of liking the call for its gutsiness, I loved it more because it gave me the chance to watch Belichick twist in the wind. Just hilarious, and it couldn’t happen to a nicer jerk. I mean, if your loyal lieutenants (namely Rodney Harrison and Tedy Bruschi) are more than happy to grab a torch and head to the windmill, what does that say about the man himself?

But one three things really bothered me in the multitude of hot air expended on this topic all week.

One, the same people that filled the world with self righteous babbling and empty column space deriding the call would have fallen all over themselves proclaiming Belichick a genius and anointing him the greatest coach who ever lived if it had worked. You don’t believe me, look at how they lauded him in 2007, the screw the league season.

Two speaking of which, I’ve heard far too many people state with shocked incredulity how this call smacked of ego, arrogance, hubris and showed that Belichick does think he’s smarter than everyone else. Well duh! Is this your first Patriots game in the last 10 years? The entire 2007 was nothing but arrogance and ego. You think Belichick corn holed Joe Gibbs’ Redskins because he thought they might come back, or did he do it because he wanted to stick it to the Hall of Famer to prove a point?

And three, the national media spent an inordinate amount of time vilifying Belichick for this play call and yet said almost nothing about Browns head coach Eric Mangini’s end of the game hook and ladder call.

Cleveland Brown Joshua Cribbs, the only indispensable player on that team, was hurt badly at the end of Monday’s game on this play. Cribbs was carried off the field on a back board, but mercifully was fine and will even play this week.

But I must ask why in an unwinnable situation was this play ever called? There was no need for it since even if Cleveland scored; there was no chance to win. Even if the unlikely would have occurred and the Browns scored, it would have only reduced the margin of defeat by 7 points. There was absolutely no need for such chicanery. The only reason for this play, which only resulted in your best, and only good, player getting potentially grievously hurt, was to avoid the shut out and not have that on Mangini’s resume for his end of the season review.

Everyone has been happy calling Belichick’s call as a blunder, boneheaded even the worst call ever, yet nary a peep has been made about Mangini’s call, one obviously made only to make the coach look marginally better, although at this point I strain to see how that is even possible. This is far worse than Belichick’s, as while Bill’s play call may have come from hubris and ego at least he did it in a fleeting attempt to try a strategy that would give his team the win. Eric’s play call came finding a way to save his own fat can, and a willingness to risk the safety and well being of his players for no other reason.

I say shame on the national sports media for focusing on Belichick’s call and not jumping up and down on Mangini for this completely unnecessary and dangerous call. If you can get worked up into lather about Belichick going for the throat, and not Mangini trying to avoid the unemployment line then for shame and perhaps you need to reexamine why you cover the NFL, what you know about football and how you live your life because if you spend that much time getting upset about a 4^th down call to win and not a meaningless play that put people in danger, you’re priorities are out of whack.

He Said He Said

“I don't want to give anybody bulletin board material, but I do believe it was [former NFL head coach Herman Edwards]: We play to win the game. Period. So, we're going on the road to play a football game, and we're gonna win. I don't care what you say. People can print in the paper, they can send it to the team's we're playing. But they know just like we know, we're going to win the game.” - Seahawks wide receiver Nate Burleson

That is mighty big talk from a man who did not have one single catch, nor did his team win. How come I didn’t know about this? If I did, I would have horribly avoided starting him in fantasy. Obviously, he jinxed his team.

"Offensively, we...we...I played bad." – Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger

Well, yeah. Thanks for owning up to it big guy, just don’t do it again.

"All in all, I hated the call. It smacked of I'm-smarter-than-they-are hubris." SI.com’s Peter King on Belichick’s 4^th and 2 play call

You’re dead on balls accurate Peter. But one question for you, have you not seen a Belichick coached team before? Heck the entire 2007 season was I’m smarter than everyone hubris.

"She always took care of us. She was a second mom to a lot of guys.'' – Bengals cornerback Jonathan Joseph on Vikki Zimmer, wife of defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer who passed away suddenly in October

Finding motivation for men who get highly paid is always difficult. But when a close knit group of guys lose someone close to them like Vikki, feel that pain and see how much it hurts Mike, they’ll move heaven and earth for their coach. And so far, they have.

"Cincinnati out-defensed Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh.'' – NBC’s Tony Dungy

And to think I thought I was finished throwing up for the week.

"I love the way Al [Davis] runs the team. People give Al a lot of grief, but Al is an old AFL guy. The NFL tried to bury the AFL for years, and finally when the AFL caught up and was about to pass these guys, a couple of owners took the league and tried to merge behind Al's back. So he has been an outlaw ever since. He is going to do it his way; he has won three championships his way, and I love how the Raiders are run.''- Rapper Ice Cube, who is making a film about the Raiders

Let me guess, the film’s called Tales from the Crypt: The Crypt Keeper takes a cruise on the Titanic.

"I thought we could get the 2 yards." – Patriots head coach Bill Belichick

And you were wrong.

“Bill Belichick is, maybe, the best coach ever in the NFL. In fact, currently, I'm not even sure there's a close second.” – ESPN’s David Fleming

Uhhh, really David? Let’s see, Belichick built a team that won three Super Bowls, the same as Bill Walsh (who’s handiwork also led to two more Super Bowls) and Joe Gibbs, only one more Super Bowl win than his mentor Bill Parcells, Jimmy Johnson, Vince Lombardi (who won multiple NFL championships on top of the Super Bowls, the same as Paul Brown) and Don Shula. But it’s still one less trophy than acquired by Chuck Noll. Perhaps any of those gentlemen would prefer to argue your point on the best coach ever.

Idiot of the week

Stupid abounded from all angles this week. But there is only one pure idiot, and after he raised his dumb guy flag, I knew this week’s battle for this coveted award was over.

Perhaps it’s just me, but lately it seems much discussion in this space is reserved for guys making dirty hits after the play. Much like I railed on Tommie Harris last week for punching a cat after the play, we now bestow the dishonor of idiot upon yet another player throwing a punch, Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison.

By the point in the Sunday’s game James lost his cool, the Bungles needed no additional help. While their offense was not exactly lighting the world on fire, they were moving the ball and converting third downs to keep their drive alive. And yet there was Harrison being the good division neighbor and giving the Bungles 15 yards and a fresh set of downs plus allowing Cincinnati to continue their final drive and wick yet more precious time off the clock. I know Harrison plays angry and you want a certain level of that from your defensive personnel. But more than anything you want your players to play smart, and punching a guy after the play in front of officials is far from smart.

"I didn't care nothing about that at the time" - Harrison on the punch and the possible consequences

Well James you should have. No man is above the team and James certainly acted like that. Yeah, it's frustrating to get beat physically as the Bungles did to the Steelers all the live long day. Yeah, that guy shouldn't have shoved Harrison after the play. But punching him in the head in retaliation never helps. If you want to stop that behavior from your opponent you gird up, man up, and whip his fanny on the next play. Get him back by making him look like a chump, instead of being suckered into being his fool. And like Harris last week, Harrison should have been booted from the game. Why he was not I do not know, but the crimes were the same and so should have been the punishment.

So, for committing a spectacularly dumb penalty at a critical moment, allowing the opposition’s offense to stay on the field and ultimately score again, which drastically changed the end game, not thinking of consequences of your actions and letting someone get the best of you whilst you focused on some personal affront instead of your team’s chances at victory by punching a dude in the head, an infantile reaction at best and criminal at worst, James Harrison you are an idiot.

Taking the Week Off

With the conclusion of bye weeks last week, this beloved feature shutters its doors for another season. But fear not faithful fan, very soon 24 teams will be taking every week off, and you can enjoy their off season antics until the humid days of summer are upon us once again. Until then, let’s play ball.

On Tap This Week

I pushed the envelope too far. Just call me Icarus. I’m still having trouble believing I backed Andy Reid on the road, but what was I to do? He was going against Norv Turner. I love that I took a chance on KC that paid off greatly, but every team that should have won, well, were real happy to just show me how well they poop.

Last week: 8-7

This week:

Season to date: 100-44

Whatever touch I had during the first half of the season has left me strung up and naked. And it’s getting cold. My 3 point lead from Thursday night is gone and has become a 2 point deficit. And now I’m fighting to reclaim my top spot.

The real shame was I felt good about my picks. At least it was not a losing record for the week. Whoops, there’s the jinx for this week! Oh well, nothing left to do but get up, dust myself off and go after it again.

Sunday

Pittsburgh (6-3) at Kansas City (2-7)

You think Big Ben will take his frustrating day last week out on KC? Yeah, me too.

Steelers over Chiefs

Indianapolis (9-0) at Baltimore (5-4)

Shame on me for doubting Peyton. I know, it looked like I might have made the right call for a while, but I forgot one tiny factoid. Indianapolis has won 6 of 7 against the Patriots including last Sunday. Dumb. But I will not make that mistake again.

Colts over Ravens

Atlanta (5-4) at New York Giants (5-4)

Atlanta on the road, reeling and without Michael Turner against a rested New York squad who has been working tirelessly to stop the bleeding and getting desperate. Yeah, not feeling comfortable with that scenario.

Giants over Falcons

New Orleans (9-0) at Tampa Bay (1-8)

I’m not getting off this train to the Big Easy, not once until we hit Mardi gras.

Saints over Buccaneers

Buffalo (3-6) at Jacksonville (5-4)

Ok, who’s left to steer the Buffalo ship? I say promote TO, or at least let him self promote, it’s all they have left.

Jaguars over Bills

Cleveland (1-8) at Detroit (1-8)

Ugh.

Lions over Browns

Washington (3-6) at Dallas (6-3)

Unless Washington can knock Romo out of this game, what hope do they have?

Cowboys over Redskins

Seattle (3-6) at Minnesota (8-1)

Please.

Vikings over Seahawks

San Francisco (4-5) at Green Bay (5-4)

Well, I suppose I should not give up entirely on the Pack just yet. But can Aaron Rodgers avoid the rush again this week long enough for some magic?

Packers over 49ers

Arizona (6-3) at St. Louis (1-8)

A good potential upset, since St. Louis did give the Saints a few fits last week. But I’ll take the Cardinals, for no other reason than they should win.

Cardinals over Rams

New York Jets (4-5) at New England (6-3)

The Jets are dead to me. I do not care what they do to this point. They could fall off a cliff and I shed not tear one for them. Perhaps that’s a bit harsh, but come now. There is talent all over that team. And if everyone from the head coach down loves to have their mouths write checks, their fannies had best be able to cash them.

Patriots over Jets

Cincinnati (7-2) at Oakland (2-7)

Well, the Raiders have benched JaMarcus Russell, potentially for the season. Not sure what good that will do now, or would have done in September. But hey, at least it gives the team a few paragraphs of press in a section other than the police blotter.

Bungles over Raiders

San Diego (6-3) at Denver (6-3)

Ok, another week, another big game for division supremacy. Yawn it's getting boring I mean, what are we starting a playoff push or something? Ok, fine enough horsing around. What to do with this game. I suppose I’m a glutton for punishment. I’ll take Norv Turner on the road to win.

Chargers over Broncos

Philadelphia (5-4) at Chicago (4-5)

What am I supposed to do? Philadelphia is killing me, yet I know if I go against them, they’ll win. I should pick them just to jinx their terrible selves and hopefully get Andy Reid his much deserved pink slip. But backing Cutler? Ugh that’s even worse. I hate myself.

Eagles over Bears

Monday

Tennessee (3-6) at Houston (5-3)

Good pick for Monday Night ESPN. No wonder you’re ratings stink. Who’s watching this other than Bud Adams’ fingers?

Titans over Texans

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 11 Thursday Night Special

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:00:00 +0000

Wasn’t last weeks Cutler interception-fest just lovely? I suppose it was, if only for the schadenfreude angle regarding Cutler and the foolish Bears who love him. From a pure football standpoint, though, yuck. Obviously, the NFLN hand picks only the best games for their weekly showcase. How could they possibly top that? Oh right.

I suppose if Joey Porter decides to find a bank of reporters somewhere this week, there could be a certain level of excitement and entertainment heading into the match up. But other than that, who’s really excited about this game? I mean, it’s not even in South Florida where we might see Mark Anthony and J-Lo. Oooh the star studded Dolphins ownership!

Ok, I know at one point in his post football career, Matt Millen was considered a sharp mind when it came to football knowledge. He could accurately break down a game, point out blocks and strategies that most people would miss but are crucial to successful plays and his insider knowledge of the league helped spread the knowledge of football to the fans. And I’m willing to go so far as to say Millen probably is still retains much of that knowledge and observational talent that elevated him once before to be considered a general manager candidate.

But at this point, remembering the horrific job he did at deconstructing the Lions even further into the depths of awful, can you really take him with anything but a grain of salt? Even if he is correct in his analysis, I cannot take what he says seriously. Is his reputation from his time in Detroit so damaged that he cannot be taken seriously as a knowledgeable football mind? There’s something to gnaw on as tonight’s events unfold. Just listen to him, and tell me if you take him seriously or believe him at all, or find yourself arguing with him even though he may be right. I’m curious if he’s too far gone to last in the booth.

On Tap Tonight

Miami (4-5) at Carolina (4-5)

Miami has no downfield threat. Carolina does, but they also have Jake Delhomme. But, John Fox finally remembered he has a wicked good running game, one that does not rely on goofy stunts. Plus, Carolina handled a pretty good running team at home last week. Couple that with the Dolphins losing wildcat triggerman Ronnie Brown for the season with a foot injury and I like the Panthers tonight. 3 yards and a cloud of dust dominate all.

Now watch, Carolina will be unable to stop the run and make Ricky Williams look like he’s running in 2002.

Panthers over Dolphins

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 10

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 15:57:00 +0000

I’ve determined if anything could trump my distaste for Favre vs. Packers hype it’s Patriots vs. Colts hype. So who’s playing this week? Oh crap.

Opening Kickoff

Now, how much joy did you get watching Jay Cutler melt down Thursday night? Admit it, it’s ok. You don’t have to be a Bronco fan to love it. I’m sorry, but the man may have a big arm, but he is no leader. You can tell by the way he carries himself onto the field and off of it. Would you follow a guy who carries himself like someone just took away his favorite blankie? Me either. And he just looks like no matter what happens, he doesn’t care. I’m not saying if you have a bad game to throw a tantrum like Tom Brady. But if Peyton Manning has a bad game and you see him on the sidelines, you can tell it bothers him. Jay looks like he’s only concerned if his extra chin gets pinched in his chin strap.

The Way It Was

You know I love Joey Porter. I mean, the man has no qualms about running his mouth at an opponent, and it’s always entertaining. However, if you trash talk an opponent, you best back it up. Joey had no issues ripping on the Patriots, but in the actual game he recorded no tackles, no assists, no sacks, no passes defended, and no fumbles forced or recovered. Joey, where’d ya go when the microphones went away?

Wow, big surprise Andy Reid got outcoached in a big game with big ramifications. Come on Andy, you have to try for the end zone once in a while, field goals alone do not win games. Fortune favors the bold, which probably explains your NFC championship game record.

Easily the most maddening teams must be the Eagles and Cardinals. I wonder each week who will show up, Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde. One week they get pounded, the next they explode. Grrrr.

Wow, the Cardinals let Matt Leinart play for one down and he promptly threw an interception. And now, the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Locomotives, Matt Leinart!

The Cardinals deactivated Anquan Boldin for the Bears game due to an ankle injury, yet no one apparently told him until he found uniform removed from his locker. You think that might just happen one day except everything will be gone?

Hmmm, Chris Chambers looks pretty good as a Chief. Might have to tuck that knowledge away for future use, like this week.

Oh, so that's Vince Young. Right I forgot.

Hmmm, I guess the Ravens defense is only good after a week off now. What a shame they do not have anymore weeks off.

Wow, look, Tampa Bay found a quarterback. Now they only need…well everything else.

The Bungles lost Chris Henry for the season with a broken forearm. At least they’ll have something to use as an excuse when they collapse.

Why did the umpire in the Eagles/Cowboys game have little black pom poms on his hat?

I have a question. How can Asante Samuel get flagged for taunting after the play, when both he and Marion Barber, the alleged tauntee, were laughing afterwards? It doesn’t seem to make sense.

Steve Mariucci stated, in discussing the Bears loss to the 49ers, that eventually Jay Cutler will be a superstar quarterback. Is that not the argument that has been used since Cutler’s first game? This is now his 4^th season in the NFL. At some point, eventually must turn into now, and I just do not see it.

The Steel Pit

Steelers 28 – Broncos 10

I could not have been more impressed with not only the win on the road, but how the team came back from a lackluster first half.

While the defense got knocked around the entire first half, they clamped down the second half and after one score and never allowed Denver another offensive score.

The offense, after starting off sluggish and out of rhythm, exploded in the second half for three touchdowns. Easily my favorite had to have been after Big Ben was stripped on a sack and Denver returned it for a defensive touchdown. Ben drove the offense 80 yards in 4 plays for the go ahead touchdown. Spectacular and I request more of that this week.

I loved Brett Keisel giving the mile high salute after a sack of Orton. Although I bet Bronco fans didn't though.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is now 5-0 on Monday Night Football.

I have nothing particularly special to say this week. The team looks like it’s really starting to come together, and reach its potential. And if they do, the rest of the NFL should look out. Everyone seems to forget that no matter how great the Colts, Patriots, Bungles or anyone else is, Pittsburgh is still the defending champion. They have not, and look like they feel it’s their duty to remind everyone each week. You can color me excited about that prospect.

Only In Faux NFL Reality…

So in looking up some Jeff Reed stuff a few weeks ago, I stumbled upon one of my new favorite websites. Go ahead, check it out, its hilariously addictive and will cause you to ask, do I look that stupid when I go out and party? The answer is a drunken heck yeah! And try to tell me honestly you don’t bust out laughing at the picture of Reed with a bride to be sash on.

Ok, fine, we get it, Tom Brady and Peyton Manning will have a show down this week in Indianapolis. I might actually be slightly more interested if A) we didn’t have this shoved down our throats for the past 7 years B) either team had one the championship in the past two (quick who’s the current defending champion and no they do not play on Sunday night this week) and C) if they actually took the field at the same time and really did have to compete head to head. This storyline is beginning to get as tiresome as Yankees vs. Red Sox. Shocking that two Boston teams are involved in two of the most over-hyped and annoying rivalries in sports.

Texans safety Bernard Pollard, yes that Pollard, had two picks last week in a losing cause against the Colts. But Pollard, who has helped the Texans secondary greatly, seems to be overcoming more than just a change of address from Kansas City. According to Jason Whitlock, Pollard told him Herm Edwards had to call teams, including the Texans, and assuage fears raised from information disseminated by Scott Pioli and Todd Haley after they cut Pollard. Do you just wonder if Pioli did it because of the Tom Brady injury?

Speaking of the Chiefs, they finally wised up and cut ties with underachieving and over insulting malcontent Larry Johnson. Now, this is a smart move just for the type of person Johnson has shown himself to be. But let’s be honest, if he were anything approaching the player he was in 2006, the Chiefs would have sent him to counseling and found a way to smooth everything over. But results trump all.

In weirder Johnson news, rumors have swirled that the erstwhile running back may sign with the Steelers. Yeah right. Why would a team with four good to great running backs pick up a lazy, foul mouthed, woman beating malcontent who doesn’t block and is long past is best years, despite his age? This is more detestable than the Michael Vick to Pittsburgh rumors. Yes, kids it is worse to beat on women than kill dogs. I just know ranking Johnson as more repugnant than Vick will get the Vick haters fired up.

Redskins’ cornerback DeAngelo Hall got into a scrum with Falcons head coach Mike Smith after Hall’s teammate LaRon Landry laid a late hit on Falcon’s quarterback Matt Ryan. Smith has been subsequently fined for the altercation and Hall still looks like a fool.

ESPN’s Rick Reilly has had a mission recently to bring to light the increasingly restricted and ever dwindling experience of tailgating. Rick is attempting to rally the troops to not let this tradition be shackled quietly. Rick, you’re fighting a losing battle here. Tailgating is being restricted for obvious reasons, to lessen liability. And come on, lawyers always trump fun.

Ben Roethlisberger had an interview on ESPN’s E:60, where he talked about his first few seasons in the league, the sexual assault case against him and why he’s fighting back to protect his name and life as a Steeler. I find it interesting he felt he was a bad teammate his first few years and has worked hard to change that. I also find it very interesting that at the point he started to change, his game became unbelievably good.

The previous week before the Bungles showdown with the Ravens, the wacky Chad Ochocinco send deodorant to the Ravens secondary, so they would not sweat going up against him. This week, Chad wanted to send a case of mustard to the Steelers defensive backs because they could not “ketch-up” to him. Marvin Smith talked him out of that one. Why Marvin? Mustard goes great on a “hot dog”.

In more Ochocinco news, jeez I may have to start a new section just for him; Chad attempted to “bribe” an official during the game. The call was going to be on Chad and he lingered around the officials with a dollar bill in his hand. Now, I’ve heard about this from almost every angle, how it’s fun, not fun, disrespectful, sends the wrong message, was it planned and if so why would he commit a penalty like that on purpose, blah blah blah. Why is no one asking the most pertinent question? Where exactly did he keep the dollar?

In The Merry Old Land Of Oz

Hold the phone, don’t keep the champagne on ice and let’s start the celebration early! Despite going up against an opponent with some stellar Steelers on his roster, and despite those same Steelers playing magnificently, I still managed to win my showdown! That marks two straight weeks of winning. Wow, I feel like a champion. I wonder what it will feel like if I ever should reach .500? Must be bliss.

Well, it’s helped that lately my big guns, the players I got assigned after missing the draft, finally started playing consistently huge as advertised. Even better, the ones not advertised are chipping in big time. Boy, winning sure is fun. Although this week, I’m sure I’ll get pasted.

I must admit at this point I’m not learning as much as I have at the beginning of the season. I saw two cats trade their entire wide receiving corps and still cannot figure out why. But hey, it’s an enjoyable sideline thus far, now that I’ve learned to take it with the grain of salt it deserves. The Lady K would agree.

Upon Further Review

One of the ever growing stories on the periphery of the NFL right now is the link between on field injuries and concussions and the long term impact multiple concussions causes in players post game lives. The NFL is playing duck and dodge with this issue, because if more attention was paid to this, and they needed to make serious changes as to how policy goes on teams and in the league in general, it could drastically change how the game is played, and how teams are built with players. Actually many of the ramifications I can think of without being an insider on this discussion are somewhat mind boggling. But that is a discussion for another day.

Also for another day are the specific numbers, studies and congressional hearings that have come forth in recent months and years. Others with more access and a better skill with a pen have properly captured this issue, and I shant attempt to rehash their work. But what I would like to address today is one key component to the argument about this issue. The largest obstacle those who work to lessen and eliminate the dangers of concussions face is the an attitude that either these things happen or only a wimp would let such a thing sideline them put forth from the NFL as a whole and players in particular. And overcoming this attitude may be the one thing that makes actual progress toward real change.

Proponents to change use studies and medical evidence to push for widespread usage of better helmets now available, mandatory bench time after a concussion, better diagnosis on the field and treatment afterward. But players know that they are one snap away from possibly being replaced. They want to get back on the field as soon as possible to show they are the man for that job and no one else. Leads to a dangerous situation where they make themselves more susceptible to further injury and a shortened career.

While this seems counterintuitive on the surface, why would you risk shortening your career in order to play today, it happens. And it’s justified by players looking at concussions as, they happen, it’s a violent game, what are you gonna do? Writing a guest column for Sports Illustrated this week, Steelers linebacker LaMarr Woodley touched upon the issue of concussions. Woodley stated amongst other items that,

“No matter how many rules or equipment changes you have, I just don't think you can eliminate concussions from the game.”

This very attitude, which displays ignorance, acceptance of status quo and resistance to change, is at the core of the hindrances facing the problem. If players just accept these things as a fact of life, and do not open themselves to new treatments, new equipment or new ideas, yes concussions will always be a part of the game. And most likely, part of many players post game lives.

But perhaps worse than a lack of knowledge is the manly man attitude that just because you got your bell rung doesn’t mean you should sit out. In last week’s action, Redskins running back Clinton Portis suffered a concussion and did not return. During the NFL Network post game show, Deion Sanders, a man I already have issues with, set forth mocking Portis for sustaining the injury. This reckless behavior causes these testosterone fueled competitors to not only want to prove the idiot commenting wrong, thus rushing back too soon and risking further injury and debilitation, but also causes other players quietly suffering to keep their mouth shut in fear of being labeled weak. Yes, it’s juvenile, stupid and ridiculous but it happens. No one wants to show weakness in front of an opponent, and with attitudes like Sanders’ prevailing, many players look upon such things as showing weakness.

Look, you have to be a tough guy to play in the NFL. No argument there. But this isn’t some old school thing where you tape it up, rub dirt on it or walk it off. Long term consequences include dementia, early onset of Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss, seizures and premature death. Just ask Mike Webster’s family how bad things can get.

I know NFL players feel they could lose their spot in the line up, and no one wants to be perceived as weak. But a smart coach will know who is the best on the field and will not forget it injury or no. I mean, Bob Sanders always seems to be wrecking a knee or pulling something, yet he still gets his spot back in the line up when healthy. And the true sign of a strong man is one willing to stand up and say no, I am not right, in the face of those too short sighted to see the big picture.

He Said He Said

"Let me start out by saying that I'm responsible for all of the decisions that are made with our football team. The [red] zone decisions are my responsibility. They are nobody else's. No one else made a mistake. The quarterback did not make a mistake. The decision was mine.'' - Giants head coach Tom Coughlin after the Giants 4^th consecutive loss

Very admirable falling on the sword Tom, I always dig a cat with a buck stops here mentality. However the question remains, just how do you turn into this wave and break through?

I officially declare Patriots-Colts Hype Week kicked off. – SI.com’s Peter King

I officially declare myself nauseous.

"Well, there's times when I think I'm open, and I wish I'd get the ball. But I'm not Tony. And I have no idea what he's going through back there. Usually he's got some 300-pound guy back there chasing him, trying to rip his head off. So no, I don't get too upset by that. Right now, we've got a good thing going. Guys are making plays when they're called.'' - Dallas receiver Miles Austin

Wait a minute, a humble receiver with common sense? Is that one of the seven signs of the apocalypse?

"I stay in Atlanta during the offseason, so if Mike Smith wants to see me, he can definitely find me." – Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall in response to his scrum with Falcons head coach Mike Smith

I guess Hall has gotten tired of getting beat by guys his own age and wants to try a new way to get humiliated.

"Not much I can do about it, and I'm pretty used to it by now. But it does piss me off. If I was a dirty player, would my coach [Mike Tomlin] tell me, 'Don't change a thing you do?'” – Steelers receiver Hines Ward on the subject of being voted the NFL’s dirtiest player.

Hmmm, I thought Hines took this with a grain of salt, but it seems to have cheesed him off. Wait, a cheesed off Hines scored two touchdowns last week…. Hey Hines, you smell and your mama dresses you funny too! That ought to be good for at least one touchdown.

"We didn't let 'em off the hook." - Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt wrapping up his postgame press conference with a slap to the microphone

Brilliant, no words are necessary.

"I just work here. If Jake's the guy, Jake's the guy. It's not my call." – Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith

Yeah, that makes me soooo want to believe in Carolina. Bad times are a coming.

"We're legit. The tape doesn't lie. That's our whole thing is to earn respect. We don't care if we're underdogs. At the end of the day, our job is to make you or whoever is out there a believer." – Bungles safety Chris Crocker

You tell ‘em Chris. LEAVE CARSON ALONE! (I cannot be the only one who made the Chris Crocker connection, can I? Or am I just that behind the times?)

Idiot of the week

Hmmm, who could possibly be the idiot this week….

Could it be DeAngelo Hall for picking a fight with Mike Smith? Could be, that is pretty dumb getting into a scuffle with the opposing teams head coach. But it’s not.

Could it be Deion Sanders for scoffing at Clinton Portis after he suffered a concussion? Could be, but Sanders seems to enjoy the taste of foot, so I’ll let him pass.

Oh I know, Bears defensive lineman Tommie Harris.

Harris, in all his brilliance, took out his early frustration last week against the Cardinals by punching Cardinal guard Deuce Lutui in the head. I argued the last few weeks that players can sometimes deliver hits or blows in the heat and speed of the moment they normally would not. But this does not fall in that category. It occurred after the play and Harris obviously was trying to make a point. I suppose the point was look at how dumb I am. Point duly noted. Now, this was bad enough, but what made it worse was it was 64 seconds into the game so how frustrated could he be.

Compounding his stupidity, Harris performed said moronic act right in front of Ed Hochuli, and we all know you just don’t mess with Ed. Even Chuck Norris has yet to mess with Big Guns Hochuli.

Ed of course tossed Harris, and the Bears defense had to play the remainder of the game short handed on the line. With less pressure coming at him, Kurt Warner eviscerated the Bears defense on the way to a rout.

So Tommie, for bone headedly punching a guy, and doing it in front of Ed Hochuli, getting tossed from the game and leaving your teammates to pick up the slack from your stupid move, you are an idiot.

Taking the Week Off

Giants – And boy do they need it. At the very least, it will take an extra week to pull the slings and arrows out of Coughlin that he absorbed taking responsibility.

Texans – There’s not enough salve in the world to dissipate the sting of losing a close one to the Colts. Although taping kicker Kris Brown to the goalposts for a few days may help.

On Tap This Week

Well, last week was not so great. But this week has started off on the right track.

Last week: 8-5

This week: 1-0

Season to date: 93-37

Thanks to last week turning out decent, despite me monkeying with my picks at the last minute, again, and a good start to this week I still hold the top spot. Now, let’s see if I can once again avoid screwing that up.

Sunday

Detroit (1-7) at Minnesota (7-1)

Yeah right. This might be AP’s big day, the one missing for a while now.

Vikings over Lions

Tampa Bay (1-7) at Miami (3-5)

If Tampa Bay does not win in regular uniforms, will they go back to the creamsicle specials? I hope so, because despite being in the minority on this I think they’re sweet.

Dolphins over Buccaneers

Buffalo (3-5) at Tennessee (2-6)

Hmmm, I wonder what the top running back in the league will do this time.

Titans over Bills

New Orleans (8-0) at St. Louis (1-7)

Drew Brees will be chowing on a po’ boy by halftime.

Saints over Rams

Jacksonville (4-4) at New York Jets (4-4)

Ok, the Jets have had a week to think about what they’ve done. But will it be enough to contain a burgeoning Jax team? I hope so.

Jets over Jaguars

Denver (6-2) at Washington (2-6)

Now this will be the salve that stops a two game losing streak.

Broncos over Redskins

Cincinnati (6-2) at Pittsburgh (6-2)

Despite what you may have heard, this is the real game of the week. A grudge match game between bitter rivals with the division on the line. Now one more time with feeling Joey, who dey say gonna beat dem Bengals?

Steelers over Bungles

Atlanta (5-3) at Carolina (3-5)

I’m sorry, I know Carolina has played better, but I just do not trust them when there’s a chance Delhomme could be called upon to save the day.

Falcons over Panthers

Kansas City (1-7) at Oakland (2-6)

And now, the game that no one watched. The Chiefs have now added a good wide receiver and jettisoned a locker room cancer. I’m going to go out on a limb here.

Chiefs over Raiders

Dallas (6-2) at Green Bay (4-4)

I want to pick Green Bay. I really do. I want to believe in them. I know they need this so badly. But after last week, how can I trust them?

Cowboys over Packers

Seattle (3-5) at Arizona (5-3)

Ok, I’m going to cautiously predict that the Arizona team that trampled the Bears will show up, and not the one that laid a turd against the Panthers. But your guess is as good as mine as to which team takes the field.

Cardinals over Seahawks

Philadelphia (5-3) at San Diego (5-3)

Speaking of bipolar teams, ladies and gentlemen your 2009 Philadelphia Eagles! Here’s how I picked this one. San Diego barely beat the Giants. Philadelphia dissected the Giants. Therefore the Eagles are better than the Chargers. If you have a better way of figuring out this team, go right ahead. Because the only other way I know, choose between head coaches, has me stymied. I mean, how do you pick the worse coach between Andy Reid and Norv Turner? It’ll be moronic challenges, ill advised timeouts and nimrod level play calling for three hours. NFL fever, catch it!

Eagles over Chargers

New England (6-2) at Indianapolis (8-0)

Remember way back at the beginning of the season when I said Tom Brady would not look good until the middle of the season when he was surer of his knee? And how does Tom look now? Yeah I thought so. And how will Tom look against a weak Colt secondary? Yeah, I thought so too. The real question is, will Peter King’s head explode on Football Night In America in joyous anticipation.

Patriots over Colts

Monday

Baltimore (4-4) at Cleveland (1-7)

The Browns will be starting Brady Quinn at quarterback. Yeah, that’ll help. Finally the Baltimore defense will have an opportunity to look good.

Ravens over Browns

The Crystal Ball 2009 Week 10 Thursday Night Special

kylerstar@gmail.com (Kylerstar) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:06:00 +0000

We’ve reached the point in the season where the Thursday night game has been restored. Yes, some may say this is the beginning of Thursday night games, but come now. I remember one way back in the beginning of September. There was a big amount of hoopla surrounding it too, if I recall.

Regardless, I’m a might confused as to the start this year. Perhaps my memory fails me, but did they not begin again on Thanksgiving previously? I suppose Tuesday Morning Quarterback would just include this in his Universal Theory of Creep.

Nonetheless, we now have three scrumptious days of NFL action on which to indulge, and never more than two consecutive days without a game. My cup runneth over.

And with this game, a return of NFL game coverage on the NFL Network. This season, since Cris Collinsworth nabbed the sweet gig on Sunday Night Football, Bob Papa will be teamed with Matt Millen. Wouldn’t it be fun to have Bryant Gumbel and Millen in the same booth? Imagine that pairing.

So with a game scheduled before Sunday, I give this tasty early pick, a sort of appetizer before the main course. And who doesn’t love appetizers?

On Tap Tonight

Chicago (4-4) at San Francisco (3-5)

NFLN keeps pimping the Singletary facing his old team storyline. Sure there’s a compelling side to this angle, as Singletary had a Hall of Fame career as the Bears middle linebacker in a legendary defense. And that defense brought the Bears their only Super Bowl victory. But when was the last time Mike was intimately associated with Chicago? It’s not like they parted ways acrimoniously so there’s some revenge factor involved, nor are Chicago and San Francisco natural division rivals either. I suppose some ridiculous angle must be exploited to hype a game between two teams who do not have winning records.

San Francisco started off wild, with a 3-1 record and seemingly gunning for the division. After that, four straight losses although they did face some fierce competition. Regardless, if you want to be a team on the rise, you must deliver.

Chicago, well they have Jay Cutler, they must be 8-0 right? No? How is that even possible? He’s the greatest quarterback of all time right? By the items I read, you would think Jay has won the Super Bowl in every season he’s played. What, he hasn’t? I don’t understand. I thought by what people were saying of his greatness, that Denver made the dumbest move in the history of the universe in letting this charming, personable and intelligent young man find fame and fortune elsewhere. Yeah, I’m still not buying the Cutler hype.

Ok, I’m not a real big fan of either team. But I am a fan of Singletary and how he gets his boys ready. If he had just a few more key people, he might have something there. But even without, I think this is a good time for them to break their losing streak.

49ers over Bears