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pint4punt · 1 year ago

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How F@#%ed are the San Di…..Los Angeles Chargers?

Ahhh the Chargers. The NFL’s poster child for Murphy’s Law. While Bolts’ fans are generally numb to disappointment, 2023 has to sting a bit more than usual. The Chargers came into the year with plenty to be excited about. They were coming off their first playoff appearance in the Brandon Staley era, drafted a skill position player in the first round, and secured their prodigious young Quarterback to a lucrative extension keeping him in powder blue for the foreseeable future.

Fast forward to Week 12 and Staley’s squad is coming off a brutal loss in which the Jordan Love led Packers just ran the Hamas playbook on them for 60 minutes dropping them to a 4-6 record on the year. The expression ‘Chargers gonna Charger’ does exist for a reason after all and LA’s red-headed step child now find themselves on the outside of the playoff picture looking up at all of their division rivals (yes even the Aidan O’Connell led Raiders). With just an 18.2% chance to make the Playoffs and a $201 Million roster of talented, but aging stars, the time has come to ask How F@%#ed are the Chargers?

What Happened:

If the Chargers deserve credit for one thing, it is consistency year in and year out. They put the same shitty product out every season no matter who’s running the show. In 2023 that is (for some strange reason) still Brandon Staley. Despite having Derwin James, Khalil Mack, and Joey Bosa to name a few, the guy hired for his ‘Defensive Prowess’ blew a 3 possession lead in the playoffs last year and has consistently fielded a Defense that gives it up easier than Lauren Boebert in the middle of Beetlejuice the musical. He even had the balls to fire his OFFENSIVE Coordinator after that hilarious collapse.

This clearly is not lost on Brandon Staley, the once hip young Coach on the rise who has quickly become the angry old man yelling at the kids on his lawn. His normally laidback exchanges with the media have devolved into rants about his stubborn, steadfast beliefs in the way his team plays Defense, despite statistics and eye tests screaming the contrary. There’s a not so small chance that if someone asks him about giving up defensive play calling again he may very well shoot up the room. But those questions are definitely warranted. Under Staley, the Chargers currently rank 29th in points per game, 31st in yards allowed per play, 31st in explosive plays of over 20 yards allowed, and 22nd in yards allowed before contact. Yep, the gaping holes in their defense would give America’s wildest U.S. Representative a run for her money.

So how did a team this talented reach a losing record with the regular season rapidly waning down? For starters they can’t win the tight contests, they’re 0-5 in one possession games. There’s also Staley’s huge free agency miss in J.C. Jackson, the team’s most expensive acquisition that was shipped up to Boston back where he came from for a 6th rounder. To make matters worse, the chief victim amongst Green Bay’s raid of the Chargers’ parade was the aforementioned star pass rusher Joey Bosa who was placed on IR with a right foot sprain and will now miss at least the next four games. So what’s ahead for this squad?

Remaining Schedule:

You couldn’t handpick a worse scenario for the Chargers’ next matchup. The team that ranks near the bottom of the league in yards allowed before contact WITH their best players in tow, now gets to go against the most athletic and elusive Quarterback in the NFL in Lamar fucking Jackson and the 8-3 Ravens. As if that horror show of a matchup wasn’t bad enough, all of America will be watching that bloodbath on Sunday Night Football. We definitely follow the ‘Any Given Sunday’ mantra and there are no guarantees in life, but the Chargers are absolutely getting destroyed in prime time tonight.

After this inevitable loss, the Chargers do get a (most likely) free win against the Patriots, before they face two of their suddenly resurgent divisional rivals in the Broncos and Raiders, Josh Allen and the Bills, another matchup in Denver, all before returning “home” to presumably get their ass beat by the defending Super Bowl Champion Chiefs.

Ability to Turn Things Around:

While they are technically within 3 games of Kansas City for the division lead, it’s very hard to imagine them running the table the way they’ve played. That being said, they have several divisional games on the horizon so they have to figure their shit out now if Brandon Staley values his job at all. As it stands, the Chargers are dead last in a tight AFC West with 6 teams ahead of them for the last playoff spot. If this team is going to crawl out of this hole, it’s going to have to be on the back of the competent Coach in the building.

As we highlighted in our previous article ‘Revenge of the Nerd’ ( link to that one here: https://www.tumblr.com/pint4punt/731378223186935808/revenge-of-the-nerd-kellen-moores-chance-to ) the Chargers have been a Red Zone force, ranking 2nd in the NFL with a 66.67 scoring percentage. Lost in this mess of a season, has been the resurgence of Keenan Allen who already has over 1,000 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns (including his first career passing touchdown) this season. The Chargers have struggled in many areas, but putting up points hasn’t been one of them as they rank 8th in the NFL with 25.9 points per game. In other words Kellen Moore is actually earning his paycheck, while the only scheme Brandon Staley is running is a Ponzi Scheme.

Unfortunately Staley hasn’t been fired as of the time of this writing, so the Chargers need him to stop catfishing them and find a way to stop teams from running a train on their Defense so their Offense doesn’t have to put up 50 god damn points to win a fucking football game!!!!

Playoff Hopes:

Luckily for the Chargers, the AFC playoff race is as tight as an inmate’s sphincter in the showers and all of their remaining matchups are in conference. They absolutely cannot lose to the Patriots, are going to have to dominate their upcoming divisional matchups, and have to pray that they catch the Bills on an off day if they’re going to beat the odds and sneak into the tournament.

Long-Term Outlook:

As bad as things look for the Chargers now, they might get much worse next year. Los Angeles is projected to be more than $27 million over the salary cap next year and have a laundry list of free agents including Gerald Everett, Jalen Guyton, and most notably Austin Ekeler. Their top pick from this year in Quentin Johnston has hardly lived up to his draft stock and it’s hard to imagine they aren’t in the market for a new Head Coach. They have a loaded roster today and their Quarterback is paid, but father time and contracts are catching up with them quickly. Telesco is going to have to have one hell of a draft and Bolts fans better pray those Belichick rumors are true.

Verdict:

Fucked harder than the cheerleader who desperately needs an A

#los angeles chargers #nfl #la chargers #bolts #brandon staley #Fire Brandon Staley

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cungader0 · 1 year ago

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following up my post abt the tf2 mercs and what nfl team they’d root for, i present to you: overwatch characters and the nfl team they’d root for

support

ana: for whatever reason, reinhardt is really into football so she watches it with him on occasion and roots for whomever he’s rooting for

bap: i feel like he’d be really into the spirit and the vibe of the kc chiefs? like, they’re loud and they win a lot and he’d be drawn to the comradeship the fanbase has

brig: she’s partial to any team with a cat mascot! if the bengals, panthers, jags, or lions do well, she’s a happy camper :) also watches the thanksgiving lions game every year w torb and rein

illari: ohhhh i feel like she’d enjoy the chargers, especially since they’ve been doing better as of late. she enjoys the stadium and she loves the colors and the motifs and it’s all just very,,, yes.

kiri: she thinks football is stupid probably but if she absolutely had to pick a team i feel like she’d like the eagles bc boy do they know how to go fuckin apeshit

lucio: he is SOOOOOO a jags fan!!! i think he’d take one look at the chaotic energy of the crowd and the stadium and all its wacky amenities and be like damn!!! looks like a good time!!

mercy: she’s a commanders fan bc that j sounds nice! everyone should just have fun okay <3 lower maintenance fanbase for the win bc it makes her the Least Stressed and she needs a mf break

moira: steelers fan because she’s the worst </3 jkjk i think if she had to pick (and she’d sigh and groan at the question bc it’s stupid does she look like someone who watches espn to you?) she’d pick the ravens

weaver: my man weaver is a fan of a 49ers. i could not tell you why i think this, i just do. it makes sense to me. i feel like their good track record helps this cause lol

zen: oh hes gotta be a bengals fan. friendliest fan base? that’s all u had to say, he’s all in. whodey.

dps

ashe: she’s legally obligated to be a cowboys fan despite her current residence in arizona. she was def born and raised a cowboys fan and runs deep in her psyche to this day

bastion: i’m honestly not even sure he would understand football or the appeal so i’m gonna say he roots for whoever is favored to lose—loves an underdog story!

cassidy: also a cowboys fan! this is purely coincidental though bc apparently the cowboys r just the most popular team in nm so yk. they’re twinning omgg

echo: since echo learned most of her social cues and mannerisms from cole after mina died, echo tends to be partial to whomever cole is partial to

genji: packers, always fights with hanzo over this

hanzo: bears, always fights with genji over this

junk: steelers LMFAO he’d be so into the ratty ass fanbase i can just feel it. he would fit right in

mei: she likes the cardinals because look at the cute little bird! such a lovely mascot, don’t you think?

pharah: JETS BABY ITS ALL ABOUT THE NEW YORK JETS PEW PEW PEW also i just feel like she’d be so at home in new york like no one takes shit from anybody everyone is blunt it’s just perfect for her

reaper: technically he’s a rams fan but you would never know it because he owns no merch but is surprisingly enthusiastic if asked about it (but then again, you’d have to know to ask in the first place)

sojourn: watches the cfl instead, but if forced to pick? maybe the bills? just because of proximity?

soldier: APPARENTLY HES FROM BLOOMINGTON???? which makes him a COLTS FAN????? this is rocking my world oh my god i need to sit down

sombra: i feel like she could be a raiders fan? something something piracy something something hacking something something you get the idea. plus bonus points for being close proximity wise to the southern border

sym: first of all she’d spit on you for even deigning to ask her if she delighted in the rituals of american football, but second of all, she only knows one team and it’s the 49ers just because that’s who weaver would mention offhandedly when they were roommates

torb: he likes the vikings because he thinks they just look really cool and the stadium is neat. he’s a simple guy what can i say.

tracer: okay stick with me here—i think she’d be a dolphins fan. she knows nothing about football but likes the animal mascots and the uniforms and thinks it’s funny to watch the grown men run around in matchy matchy little outfits. doesn’t really care all that much at the end of the day

widow: saints fan because she’s french, but would probably also spit on you if you asked for the same reasons sym would.

tank

dva: she is sooooo a seahawks chick the uniforms are so cute and the team is so cool and it reminds her a lot of the esports teams she’s encountered in her day?? for some reason?? it’s about the vibes tbh

doomfist: he’s a falcons fan i can feel it in my BONES. GOd.

jq: unlike rat she has taste and would never lay eyes on a team like the steelers so she’s a giants fan; would also fit in spectacularly well in new york so there’s bonus points for that :]

orisa: she loves a dedicated fanbase and she thought the mascot was too damn cute and it reminded her of her own dog so she’s a cleveland browns fan. also likes the texans because the mascot looks like her!!!

ram: do i have to say it. do i. (he’s a rams fan).

rein: he is a ride or die man. his team could be absolute dogass for thirty years and he’d still show up to every home game and cheer like no one’s business. he’s gotta be a bengals fan

roadhog: enables rat’s steelers fandom

sigma: he’s a broncos fan because i feel like he’d visit denver and it would remind him of home despite being in the states and he’d acquire some unreasonable lowkey deranged emotional attachment to the city and therefore the team bc he’s just sentimental like that fr

winton: he has the aura of a good, proper raised southern boy and for that i feel like he could be a titans fan? idk. not too sure abt this one but nothing else fits as well

ball: hampter is a buccs fan because he’s a little shit who loves starting shit. what more is there to it?

zarya: she’s got a thing for the patriots bc while tom brady was still doing tom brady she’d look at him and be like HA i could do so much more than this puny man. put me in coach. i will crush the opposition. basically only a fan bc she thinks brady is lame and she would’ve been a better qb for the team LMAO

#posts no one asked for and make sense to maybe two (2) people max: this #andy says shit

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sadsongsandwaltzes · 5 years ago

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Might need to turn myself into a football blog because man oh man I have a lot of opinions

#football isnt just a numbers game #if you want a numbers game then join a fantasy league #cant put a price on consistency and chemistry #dont sleep on cleveland #trubisky sucks #the packers are gonna have a losing record again #eli sweety shut up please #almost every sports media personality is a jackass #how do you just not know what supplements you are putting in your body #homie you may have convinced yourself of your own lie but you broke the rules #tomlins great although a little overrated #but still amazing nonetheless #NFL top 100 is stupid but i love the videos we get out of it #trubisky s u c k s #brady may have more to show and he is arguably the best quarterback but idk man mahomes is pure skill out there #fuck the saints #sean payton should have been banned from the NFL a decade ago im so angry they still let him coach im so mad #anthony barr is decent but vikings fans have an unhealthy attachment to him because of the rodgers hit #so yeah anyways trubisky sucks #vikings are winning the super bowl this year change my mind

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assim-eu-sou · 3 years ago

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Bia 2:59-60

2:59

- Manuel would be dumb if he were to think there could ever be anything aside from friendship going on between Bia and Alex

- I can see both of their grief in that hug… :(

- AW NOT A FLASHBACK WAAAAH I’M EMO

- That’s it I’m forgiving Alex, it’s better that way.

- Aww….

- Tsk tsk Ana… Victor has a point

- Fiore mio… sigh… Guillermo redeemed

- Zeta finally brings himself to his reckoning

- Voy crew, we’re missing the descant. But nice embellishments :)

- But perfect for me to sing along to actually :)

- AQUI ME ENCONTRARÁS IS A BIA SONG????? I love that song so fricken much

- Bruuuuuuh he is jealous. Manuel babey… come on.

- When Alex is the logical one of the two…. you know it’s trouble

- Woaaahhhh Victor has an opportunity to pursue the basketball thing

- Antonio definitely does want Victor out of his hair. But It is a good opportunity.

- Oooooooh I know this Bia outfit :)

- Me and my lack of self control

- Awww an international food party

- I love how everyone is from different places through, it’s cool

- Dang Manuel is slamming that piano again

- Dang…. Manuel is losing his brother again… pobre….

- Bros I’m getting sad…. The finality of it all is setting in

- WE DESERVE BIA 3 AND BEU IN THE RESIDENCIA KUNST :’(

- Awwwww I love Bia and Chiara’s energy so much ahhhhhh they really just make me smile I’m gonna miss them :’(

- MANUEL WITHOUT THE CAP!

- Carmín Spy

- Oooooh I think Carmín is gonna like that

- Alex is like. oh. oop. Did not mean for that to be heard.

- Aw her little nervous habits :’)

- Hahaha Paula is pleased

- Moving sucks for real

- Hahahaahahah Celeste will not forgive Alex so quickly

- uh.

- Siempre fuiste vos…. Oh gosh…

- hey. Hey what’s happening. hello.

- There’s only 1 thing Ana needs to do right now and it’s talk to Bia. Sorry…

- Everyone when Chiara says she’s with Guillermo:

- CHICO DEL PIANO PLEASEEE IF I STILL HAD EMOTIONS LEFT I’D BE WEEPING

- IT’S LIKE THE BEGINNING AHHHHHHHH

- ohhh….. my babies…. oh….

- AL FIN.

2:60

- NOT THE MONTAGE I AM ON MY LAST STRAW FOR REAL THIS TIME

- This is too much truly I. I. Help.

- My heart is aching fam. I have so much to say about this truly.

- BAHAHA Bia’s face when she got the phone call. She’s gonna slap Pixie in her mind.

- OK ANYWAY, Back to what I was saying. Bia has been waiting forever for that hug… all of this pain they’ve gone through but they went through it apart and finally he is holding her and things aren’t perfect but they’re better than they’ve been in a while… that hug ugh it breaks me. Fam I am insane.

- Oh…. She misses being called Helena… ughhhh my heart

- ohhhh. That look of Ana’s. oh….

- Chiara won them over for Guillermo fast lol

- I’m so emo my gosh…. NOT THE FLASHBACKS TO THE FIRST EP

- Fam. My heart cannot take this. It cannot.

- Oh…. tender….

- I’m in pain. I’m more sad about this ending then when I graduated high school and that is completely serious.

- The lights turning off…. I’ve had enough….

- Ahhhhh Helena Gritarle al Mundo my absolute beloved

- Oh the growl. I’m <3

- It’s really such a good song…

- Oh… I haven’t heard Manuel’s voice like that in forever… I missed it

- Delfi.

- That’s not a lot to take all the way to Spain…. I am not a light packer tho

- Above all, Paula is a mother that would do anything for her children, for better or for worse

- [(Brokenly) I’m not sad]

- This is why we keep the subs on lol

- I can’t believe he’s gonna leave without giving Manuel a proper goodbye

- I can see a lot of emotions going through Alex’s eyes… it’s all so complicated

- PARTY TIME!

- I wanna goooooo

- Please have brigadeiros

- Oh I predicted it HA

- Ok anyway.

- Whew this fortune is INTENSE

- PLEASEE they think it was Manuel lol

- Oh…. That message from Ana…. Oh gosh…

- Aw Alex came :)

- Pixie and Jandino snuck right out of there

- Look at Proud Manuel in the audience

- I’m so happy to see them close again

- What a magical little place

- She’s so giggly omg…..

- Cuando Pasó piano in the background

- oh…. tender…. Don’t touch me

- ESAS MIRADAS….. I CAN’T STAND THIS

- Awwww Alex made his own suit BASED ON CARMÍN’S IDEAS

- Finally a happy ending for Carmín….

- DJ Thiago in the house!

- oh….. binuel…. I’m gonna miss you so much….

- Marcos and Mara came???

- Whew…. Victor waiting at the bridge

- Nice lil reality check in the middle of the party

- OMG LEAVE THIAGO ALONE.

- Cute of them to have that suspenseful little scene and then not renew the show. :/

- hUH

- Girl if someone embraced me like that rn I would freaking disintegrate

- Ngl folks I don’t really understand what is going on here

- Anyway Thiago is stressed

- “Pase lo que pase…. Te quiero…” uh. Hello????

- uh. Helena recording?????

- Bia may have extreme face blindness but she DOES recognize Helena’s voice

- Bia is woozy as HECK

- DJ Manuel!

- Hey Bia….. where are you going?

- MY VPN IS ABOUT TO RUN OUT I HATE IT HERE

- Ugh Gabi sounds angelic…. <3

- Ah. So this is what all the dizziness was leading to.

- BIA!!!!!

- Can you believe my VPN cut off rn. Unbelievable.

- OK. so I made another post analyzing the ending and this liveblog is already so long so. find it here.

#I CAN"T BELIEVE I FORGOT TO POST THIS OMG #better late than never ig #disney bia #bia liveblogs #bia liveblog #probably the end of the liveblogs era #at least until something new comes out #and even then idk #but we had a good run #thanks 4 sticking around #also I want to apologize for the spelling mistakes that at times made these incoherent #my typing is not good

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racingtoaredlight · 4 years ago

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RTARL’s 2020 NFL Season Week 11 Extravapalooza

Holy moly, we’ve already made it to Week 11. I’m honestly conflicted over whether or not this is a good thing. In terms of basic pandemic mitigation practices, the NFL conducting its season is fucking insane. These guys are all well-compensated pros, but they’re still taking risks well above and beyond what they normally do, and I truly feel pretty shitty about that. In addition, the fact that some stadiums are allowing thousands of fans inside during games is a crime against humanity, and it really lays bare how craven and sociopathic the ghouls who own sports franchises are.

With that said, it’s extremely hypocritical of me to be so disdainful of the NFL’s current existence, since I watch the games, set my fantasy lineup, and generally enjoy all the stuff that comes with an NFL season. I usually bristle and roll my eyes whenever a sporting entity trots out the whole “We feel like we’re helping society by providing a distraction from everything going on” line, but in this case, with where we are right now as a country...the NFL really is doing that. For me, anyway. Is the stress-relief that the NFL provides to me and millions of other people worth all the bad stuff that comes with it? I don’t know. Probably not. But, I’d be lying if I said I’m not thankful that it’s there.

My picks are in BOLD, and the lines come to us courtesy of our friends at Vegas Insider. I use the “VI Consensus” line, which is the line that occurs most frequently across Vegas Insider’s list of sportsbooks. Your sportsbook of choice may offer a different number, and if you’d like my opinion on said number A) you are insane, and B) leave a comment below and I’ll try to answer at some point before things kickoff today.

EARLY GAMES

Tennessee Titans at Baltimore Ravens (-6)

It’s odd to have a game between a pair of 6-3 teams widely considered contenders that feels like a “must win” for each scuffling side. A great man once said “Desperation is a stinky cologne,” and the Titans absolutely reek coming into this one, so I’m giving them the edge. Baltimore being down two starting defensive linemen when Derrick Henry comes to town also factors into my pick, but nobody wants to hear that nerd shit, gotta go with my GUT, baby!

Philadelphia Eagles at Cleveland Browns (-2.5)

Hey, Cleveland doesn’t have to play in the middle of a tornado this week! There will still be driving rains, though. Fortunately, the Browns are built for the slop. RBs Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt are both ridiculous, but I’d like to give a special shoutout to G Wyatt Teller, who is currently Pro Football Focus’ highest-graded player...in the entire NFL. That’s some grade A beef! DE and straight-up superhuman Myles Garrett is out for this one, which is an enormous blow for the Cleveland defense. If I had any confidence whatsoever in Carson Wentz I’d think about taking Philly, but that young man is a mess.

Pittsburgh Steelers (-10.5) at Jacksonville Jaguars

I’m once again betting on the Steelers playing down to the level of their competition. The Jags kept things close against the Packers last week, there’s fight in them thar cats.

Cincinnati Bengals at Washington Football Team (-1.5)

I’m still extremely nervous for Alex Smith the entire time he’s on the field, but I have to admit there’s something magical about him making it all the way back to being exactly as Alex Smith-y as he was before (minus the scrambling ability, obviously). Washington RB J.D. McKissic has 16(!) catches on 29(!!) targets over the two games Smith has started. If this continues J.D. is going to owe Alex a cut of his next contract, and possibly the mineral rights to his legs if the need arises.

Today is Cincy RB Gio Bernard’s birthday, so LOOK OUT LADIES!

Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints (-3.5)

I’m making this pick based on the assumption that New Orleans really does roll with Taysom Hill at QB for the entire game, because that’s what all currently available information indicates will happen. I really do wonder if that’s going to be the case, though. I’ve read a couple of things speculating that the reason Hill is starting is that if Jameis plays he’s likely to reach various incentive clauses in his contract and cost the Saints a bunch of money. That seems utterly ridiculous to me, because why the hell would you bother signing him at all if this is how you were gonna roll? Then again, I’m not a Football Man, so maybe my un-browned normie brain just doesn’t understand.

Detroit Lions (-3) at Carolina Panthers

CATFIGHT!!!

The Lions are the orange kitty in this scenario, because Matthew Stafford will be playing through a torn thumb while not having WR Kenny Golladay or RB D’Andre Swift at his disposal.

New England Patriots (-2) at Houston Texans

The concept of an “emotional hedge,” first introduced to me by RTARL commenter Beer, is in play here. I have NO idea if the Patriots are actually decent or not, and this has all the makings of a letdown game coming off of their unexpected win over Baltimore. Reigning Defensive Player of the Year Stephon Gilmore is expected to be back for the Pats in this one, which is very nice. RB Sony Michel is also likely coming back, which could muddy the backfield and take touches away from Damien Harris, which is less nice.

The Patriots have an atrocious rush defense, but Houston’s primary RB, Duke Johnson, is far better as a receiver than as a straight-up runner, so I’m not sure they can take advantage all that much. In addition, Duke’s receiving skills are mostly squandered because QB DeShaun Watson hates checking down and seemingly prefers to take sacks while looking for throws downfield instead. Wait, why the hell am I picking Houston here??? Is this what hedging is? I don’t like it!

LATE GAMES

New York Jets at Los Angeles Chargers (-9.5)

It feels weird to lay 9.5 points with a 2-7 team, but such is the power of the Jets’ ineptitude. To New York’s credit, they were competitive in two of their last three games (against NE and BUF), but those two games were sandwiched around a 35-9 beatdown at the hands of Kansas City. We would all feel better if the cool, young Chargers steamrolled these sad sacks in a joyous explosion of big plays, and this pick is my attempt at speaking it into existence.

Miami Dolphins (-3.5) at Denver Broncos

I don’t know why I have an affinity for Drew Lock, but I do. He probably appeals to the same part of my brain that delights in terrible movies and horrible jokes, which is the most backhanded compliment I have ever given anyone in my entire life. Drew's gonna tough it out and try to play through a rib injury this week, which is gutty and admirable and all that, but I can’t imagine it’s going to help his already shaky accuracy.

Green Bay Packers at Indianapolis Colts (-1.5)

The Packers are getting their best defensive player back in CB Jaire Alexander, which will make life more difficult for increasingly-noodle-armed Colts QB Philip Rivers. Conversely, Indy’s defense is among the best in the league, so I don’t really see a carnival of offense coming from the Packers, either. Honestly, this should be a close, well-played game between two exceedingly competent squads. The kind of game where there will be long stretches where nothing major happens, but you can point out random shit that happens away from the ball and talk about line play and really sound like you know what the fuck you’re talking about. A tremendous game for fraudulent football-knowers everywhere.

Dallas Cowboys at Minnesota Vikings (-7)

It would be an INCREDIBLY Vikings move to lose this game outright. The return of Andy Dalton is being treated like it’s something that’ll get the Cowboys somewhat back on track, but prior to his injury he looked like crap, so I don’t really know where that’s coming from. Also, while he was out with a concussion he had a bout with COVID-19 that “hit him hard.” It’s tough for me to imagine he’s going to play BETTER coming out of what sounds like a truly shitty few weeks.

SNF: Kansas City Chiefs (-7.5) at Las Vegas Raiders

A lot has been made about how pissed Kansas City is about the Raiders taking a supposed “victory lap” in their team bus around the Arrowhead parking lot after their win over the Chiefs earlier in the season, and I’m choosing to completely buy into this narrative because it’s fucking hilarious. If K.C. has already reached the “needing to exaggerate/outright invent slights to get up for regular season games against inferior opponents” portion of their reign, we’re in great shape for entertainment purposes going forward.

MNF: Los Angeles Rams at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-4)

I don’t remotely trust Jared Goff against Tampa Bay’s defense. I do think this is probably our SMASHMOUTH NOSEBLEED GRIND IT OUT Game of the Week, and I can already see Tom Brady screaming at his offensive linemen at some point after he gets popped a couple of times during a single possession. Should be fun!

Last Week’s Record: 7-5-1

Season Record: 65-68-5

#Sports!#Footballl #NFL #Gambling

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first-and-ten · 7 years ago

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2017 Week 1 Preview

Welcome to the NFL season. Maybe it can keep your mind off the fact that the world is burning and drowning at the same time and nazis are everywhere and there is a racist sexual predator in charge of America and North Korea didn’t watch War Games as a kid and the bees are disappearing.

Teams on Bye: MIA, TB

KC 24 - 31 NE -- Game to Watch -- I’m choosing to view this as a good thing because one of my least favorite teams has to lose. Some people are pointing out that Andy Reid has a great record when he has more than a week to prep, but y’all, so does Belichick. There is precedent for the Chiefs kicking the living shit out of the Pats, but I don’t see it this time, not on the night where those jackasses get to bathe in their own self-importance and Super Bowl “highlights.”

JAX 20 - 27 HOU -- Lock It Up -- I’m by no means high on the Texans this year, and I don’t fancy their offense against the Jags D. But this is gonna feel like that Gleason game in the Superdome, and the Jaguars are good at fucking things up even when they are not astounding emotional underdogs. JJ Watt and Jadeveon Clowney will both be waiting to make Leonard Fournette’s NFL welcome not so welcoming. Maybe they’ll injure Bortles and Jacksonville will have to start an actual QB... If you can call Chad Henne that...

PHI 30 - 28 WSH -- Game to Watch -- -- Unpopular Opinion -- I spent the last year playing the Eagles on Madden franchise so you’ll have to forgive me if I’m a bit bullish on them. I may forget that in real life they don’t have 2,000-yard rusher and 3-time MVP Melvin Jolly in the backfield, or that Fletcher Cox has yet to be enshrined in the Pre Football Hall of Fame. In fact, Carson Wentz has zero Super Bowl rings, as opposed to the six he has garnered on my xbox! Still, the biggest factor for the Eagles last year was Lane Johnson. Before his injury they were 4-1, after they were like 3-8. That combined with Washington’s lack of pass rush means we might not yet have to worry about whether Philly can run the ball. The reverse is true on the other side: Washington’s stout o-line and the Eagles’ strong front seven cancel each other out, leaving Kirk Cousins throwing into an admittedly patchy secondary with no help from the ground game. I like the rivalry game, and I’ll give it to the up-and-comers.

NYJ 21 - 18 BUF -- Unpopular Opinion -- I know Tyrod Taylor technically cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol, but you can’t convince me he’s at 100%, or that the debut of the Rick Dennison offense in Buffalo won’t be a nightmare. This is exactly the kind of game the Josh McCown Browns would win, and it’s one I think his Jets will too. I just don’t see a lot of movement from Buffalo, whose list of weapons has been whittled down to two.

OAK 24 - 28 TEN -- Unpopular Opinion -- -- Game to Watch -- Time for Tennessee to Prove It. There’s no defense I would rather go against in a Prove It game than Oakland. I could easily see Marcus Mariota shredding them. If I wasn't a total whip I would be starting him this week in fantasy instead of Aaron Rodgers. Both of these QBs are young and coming off of injuries. I am excited by this. They also have aging runners trying to stave off younger bucks. I think if Marshawn is gonna be good, it’s gonna be early in the season. In the end, despite being outcoached, I think the Titans watch up great against Oakland and extract an important, top-shelf win at home.

BAL 23 - 27 CIN Such a close game I predict and yet I am not too interested in this game. We’ll see if Flacco is better, but anything else this game reveals could easily be a fluke. In the end, Cincy has dominated the Ravens at home for awhile, and I don’t like where Baltimore is at the moment. If the Bengals can find even one small area of leverage, they’ll find the win.

ARI 31 - 21 DET -- Game to Watch -- -- Lock It Up -- Low-key important game featuring two potential NFC Wild Card teams. The difference will be that one is a team and the other is Matt Stafford gunning his way to an exhausted .500+ despite having to max out the potential of the rest of the roster to get there. I think we might see a big game from Larry Fitzgerald. The Lions don’t seem to be set up to cover him.

ATL 26 - 20 CHI -- Survivor -- Some smart people think this is gonna be a tough out for Atlanta, and yet I give them my highest confidence Survivor designation. Am I stupid? Or am I just banking on Julio Jones making quick work of Chicago’s iffy secondary and Mike Glennon coming back to earth after an excellent preseason?

PIT 35 - 20 CLE -- Lock It Up -- Gonna add a name to the Cleveland QB Jersey of Doom! Kizer, your time on the clock starts now. We get a Joe Hayden revenge game in quick turnaround, and unfairly it will come against a Browns team that will be missing #1 overall pick Myles Garrett. That just bites for football in general. This will be LeVeon Bell’s first-ever Week 1 start, thanks to injuries and a league system that still for some reason punishes players for pot use. Who runs this thing, Jeff Sessions? Anyway, Bell might pass 100 yards by halftime. Something to watch, though, is that Roethlisberger historically struggles in Cleveland. I mean not as much as Cleveland’s quarterbacks do, but he does struggle.

IND 12 - 21 LAR -- NFL Title Belt (IND) -- The NFL Title Belt enters the season on inauspicious terms, ready to be wrested from Scott Tolzien’s hands by the Aaron Donald-less Rams defense. I will be shocked if Indy pulls this off, the only reason I don’t have it as a lock is that I don’t trust the Rams as far as I can throw them, or as far as Jared Goff could throw the ball last season without getting intercepted.

SEA 36 - 28 GB -- Unpopular Opinion -- -- Game to Watch -- I’m fucking excited for this game. You get the Bennett Brothers facing off in the middle of an emotional situation for Michael. You get Sheldon Richardson’s debut. You get Eddie Lacy’s revenge(?). You get the revenge game for the Packers’ stomping that was itself revenge for the NFC title game comeback AND the failed revenge for the Final Mary AND the Fail Mary itself. You get Aaron Rodgers facing an LoB that has no significant injuries for the first time since said NFC title game. Y’all, be pumped. The Seahawks will play passionate because of the Bennett stuff, they will refuse to let GB run, and they will execute their defensive scheme which we know can disrupt Rodgers when it’s done right.

CAR 29 - 27 SF This is a worrisome game, and if it’s SF’s I will be kicking myself. Cam is coming off an injury that lasted all offseason, their secondary sucks, Kyle Shanahan gets to debut his career at home, and the Niners have a weird streak of winning on kickoff weekend. The Panthers have to travel all the way across the country, and on top of that, don’t underestimate the memory of SB50. We saw how pumped the Broncos got playing here in the preseason. But just look at the names of the players and tell me again how San Fran pulls this one off, eh? If nothing else, Christian McCaffrey and Greg Olsen can blow this one open.

NYG 23 - 26 DAL Again? Yo, NFL, stop it with this shit. Look, I want to believe that the Giants will stymie the Cowboys AGAIN and Eli will take advantage of his new weapons and the Cowboys will be exposed, but I don’t think so. Mostly I just dread the coverage of Zeke. Can this just... Not? If Odell doesn’t play I might not even watch, even though it’s the only game today that I’ll be home for.

NO 31 - 27 MIN -- Game to Watch -- The return of Adrian Peterson! Which means he’s good for at least one devastating fumble and at least one run with 5+ broken tackles, along with something stupid he says to the media after the game. This is strength on strength for sure: the Saints offense against the Vikings defense should excite. It may be on the road but the indoor vibe of the Vikings’ stadium is Drew Bree's-Friendly. On the other side, both units have to be improved from last year to make any impact. I like the Saints’ multiple layers of defensive improvement better than the Vikings’ strategy of “throw Dalvin Book at the wall and see if he sticks” so... Whodat!

LAC 16 - 19 DEN -- Game to Watch -- So get this: Not only is this the first game to feature two black head coaches in their debut games, but those coaches GREW UP AS NEIGHBORS IN AURORA COLORADO and then were TEAMMATES ON THE BRONCOS. How on earth does that happen!?!?!? Anyway, usually I would pick a loss for either of these teams since they are new coaches who I don’t honestly have a ton of faith in, but they can’t both lose so I’m kinda gonna go with the It’s Easier To Coach At Home In Denver Than Away At Denver. As you can probably guess, that is one CJ Anderson TD and then four Brandon McManus FGs I have for Denver on the board, not exactly a runaway game. This is a low-key Mike McCoy re-revenge game, as he was stolen from DEN to HC in SD but then had to come back to OC for us after LA showed him the door. I’ll be interested to see how this whole team looks under new coaching, especially since I would at this point consider the Chargers more talented across the board. If we can’t stop the run (like last year) it’ll be tough to squeak one out. I know we have a lot of guys injured up front, but somehow I still like the pieces we’re gonna put out there, and by the time we’re running out of depth the Chargers will be gassed from the altitude. Either way, should be an interesting start (in primetime, no less) to both the Vance Joseph and Anthony Lynn eras.

Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can’t Lose!

#Broncos #Packers #Saints #Seahawks #michael bennett #week 1 #nfl #2017 predictions

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madmetalmatty-blog · 6 years ago

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DKFFL Week 4

Hello fuckers! It’s week 4 already?! Apparently I missed weeks 2 and 3.. So I should eat shit and die. BUT... I’m not going to do that because I’ve got too much to live for and my poop eating days are OVER! Also, I’m fucking 3-0 and in first place... Feels so good.

Now that we have three weeks under the belt... We can start to see who is good, who is lucky, and who is down right bad.

THE GOOD

This really hurts to say this.... Kevin and KMarsh seem to have the two best squads in the league. I’m facing Marshie this week and I got a Thielen I’m gonna lose. That Thursday Night game was fantasy owner boner central... Unless you’re “Little Dick” Nick and left GOFF on your bench. What a Gofful decision! Seymour is due to win a bunch of games this year, especially if Fournette ever plays again... It’s a hamstring dude! Quit being a little bitch! I hate that your teams are good. Ricky and James get honorable mention...

THE LUCKY

This is currently where Litwak and myself reside. While are records are good so far, and our teams points scored are upper half of the league... Our teams aren’t real inspiring on paper. But like seasoned pro’s... we know how to work a waiver wire and we tend to make good decisions!! (hey Mikey... just a heads up, you are currently rostering two kickers and have a QB starting that’s on BYE).

THE UGLY

It’s already getting ugly for a few teams in this league. Beard... Come on dude... You’re supposed to know you sports shit ! Your not supposed to suck at this... And Hawkins... Desperation is a stinky cologne. You two shlubs are down at the bottom trading hot garbage for trash. You guys will be checked out by Halloween... On a side note Hawk, looks like the Chiefs are set up to go deep! Has anyone heard Patrick Mahommes speak yet?! The voice is not what you expect lol... Ok, now back to the ugly... Incredibly, there is one below you both... A straight up swamp monster... So disgusting and foul... BOGGGGGYYY is getting soggy down at the bottom. Remember when I made fun of you on week 1 preview about how bad you drafted?... It’s much worse than I thought. You seriously starting Josh Allen this week? haha... I love it... but bold strategy cotton. They are playing the Packers, should be an easy one for our Bills! Strap in though Boggy, it’s gonna be a long and bumpy ride. Is it too early to get your dress size?

For the rest of you not mentioned... You are currently in the BAD section... You’re not good, your not very lucky, but you aren’t completely fucked yet! So you’re all sitting in this range. This area is populated heavily by members of Spring 2006, one shitty commissioner, and the only guy in the league with varicose veins.

So pop some brewski’s, eat like it’s your last meal, and enjoy your football Sunday! Make sure to interject some shit talking into Yahoo app.

GO BILLS!!!!!!!

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tortuga-aak · 7 years ago

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Packers coach Mike McCarthy criticized for reportedly pursuing Brian Hoyer at quarterback weeks after snapping at reporter for asking about Colin Kaepernick

When Aaron Rodgers broke his collarbone, Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy insisted that the team's quarterback situation was fine.

McCarthy snapped at a reporter who asked if the team would look at Colin Kaepernick as an option.

The Packers reportedly chased free agent quarterback Brian Hoyer this week, drawing criticism from some in the NFL world.

Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy insisted the team's quarterback depth was fine two weeks ago when Aaron Rodgers broke his collarbone.

However, with backup Brett Hundley slated to continue to start, McCarthy and the Packers chased after free agent quarterback Brian Hoyer (who was released by the San Francisco 49ers) before losing him to the New England Patriots, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The Packers' reported interest in Hoyer drew criticism after McCarthy snapped at a reporter who asked about Colin Kaepernick as a possibility for the Packers after Rodgers' injury in Week 5.

After McCarthy said the Packers' quarterback room has a "structure" and "philosophy" to it, McCarthy was asked if the team would consider looking at Kaepernick as a quarterback.

"Did you just listen to the question I just answered?" McCarthy said. "I’ve got three years invested in Brett Hundley, two years invested in Joe Callahan, the quarterback room is exactly where it needs to be, okay?"

In the Packers' Week 7 loss to the New Orleans Saints, the offense struggled, with Hundley throwing for 87 yards on 12-of-25 passing, with no touchdowns and one interception.

Whether it was McCarthy specifically who wanted Hoyer or someone else in the front office is unknown, but clearly the Packers don't feel entirely confident in their quarterback situation.

Some in the NFL world criticized the Packers for it.

Tweet Embed: https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/925761695171084288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw This is #Packers Mike McCarthy when asked if he'll consider signing Colin Kaepernick. Now he was going to sign Hoyer http://pic.twitter.com/uPY93Civg0Tweet Embed: https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/925784856952561668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw Oh wait!! I thought Mike McCarthy was. SOOOOOOOO happy with his qb room he spent time investing in. Told you he was full of it. https://t.co/41rEIEtLGLTweet Embed: https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/925753815822827520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw McCarthy said he wasn't gonna look outside the building tho https://t.co/x3iZylaJgxTweet Embed: https://twitter.com/mims/statuses/925786777268387841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw That’s weird, because the Packers invested a lot in their QBs, they had their QB room right where they wanted it https://t.co/mSfV9FpdKB

There's no guarantee that Kaepernick could fill in for the Packers and play any better than Hundley did in Week 7. However, as many have argued when teams have signed other backup quarterbacks, Kaepernick's record is far superior to a lot of other quarterbacks. Hoyer, for example, fell out of favor with the winless 49ers.

The Packers are clearly looking for help at quarterback, so whether Kaepernick comes up in the discussion again will be worth monitoring.

NOW WATCH: Here's how LeBron James stays in incredible shape

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footballleague0 · 7 years ago

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Questions about Vic Beasley’s injury, Dwight Freeney and stopping Matthew Stafford

Welcome to Straight from the ’Beek! The unbeaten Falcons are preparing for a trip to the Motor City to take on the 2-0 Lions – and you’ve got plenty of questions. Just remember that all opinions you see in this space are mine, unless otherwise noted.

Let’s do this.

Conner from Dublin, GA

Do you think Takk McKinley will have a big impact against the Lions, with Vic Beasley out?

Matt: I think anytime a team loses a starter or a regular contributor, it’s a big deal. Beasley’s production is going to be tough to replace, but Falcons coach Dan Quinn would only go so far as to rule him out for this week. I think they’re going to take it week by week. That said, the Falcons will take a “next man up” approach and, yes, guys like Takkarist McKinley will help have to help fill in. The Falcons have more depth and talent along their front seven this year, which is a good thing. But if Beasley’s injury is more serious or lingers throughout the year, don’t be surprised if Atlanta makes a move and brings somebody in, possibly Dwight Freeney. Quinn said the 37-year-old pass rusher is on their radar.

Gavin from Ontario, Canada

Hey Matt, I just wanted to apologize. I asked an injury question before the game and now Vic Beasley is out for a month. I hate myself. I’m so angry.

Matt: Oh boy … nice going, Gavin. We’re going to start watching your submissions a little closer now here in Straight from the ’Beek. We might just have to suspend you until Beasley returns from injury. Let me chew on this.

Brett from Lake City, FL

Is there a story behind the celebratory train horn? It doesn’t seem original enough for our one-of-a-kind stadium and team.

Matt: There is indeed, Brett, and the train horn has everything to do with Atlanta. From the City of Atlanta’s official site: “Atlanta was founded in 1837 as the end of the Western & Atlantic railroad line (it was first named Marthasville in honor of the then-governor’s daughter, nicknamed Terminus for its rail location, and then changed soon after to Atlanta, the feminine of Atlantic — as in the railroad).” As well know and reminded daily, Atlanta is a major transportation hub and so the train horn is natural fit and I think it ties in nicely to the game day experience. Plus, Falcons coach Dan Quinn thinks it’s pretty cool, too. I’m curious to hear (or read) what other readers think about it.

Tony from Waynesboro, GA

Hello Beek. Since Vic Beasley is out, do you think we see more of De’Vondre Campbell at rush LB or DE? Or do we go outside for depth? Question 2, Detroit plays the run well and has size in the middle. Do we go hurry-up to tire them out or use screens and wheel routes to get our RB’s the ball?

Matt: I think there’s three or so questions in there, Tony. As I noted above, the Falcons will take a “next man up” approach until they know the true extent of Beasley’s injury. I think they’d like to get to the bye week and make a determination as far as going outside, unless it becomes evident they have to make a move sooner. I think De’Vondre Campbell has been playing lights out through two games and I’d hate to see them change his role. I think he’s been one of the biggest and best stories of the season so far. Regarding Detroit, I think you want to keep Matthew Stafford off the field – he’s the highest paid player in the NFL for a reason. He’s very good and is getting better each year. Again, if the Falcons can establish the running game, they should be in good shape – it opens so many other facets of their offense.

Nick from Chatsworth, GA

Hi Beek. Are the Falcons gonna have to start shutting teams out to get the soft defense comments at the end of games to stop? Go Falcons. Rise up

Matt: Who knows, Nick. It drives me a little crazy when I read some of the comments about “playing soft” or “a soft zone” or insinuate that the team eases up or gets too comfortable at the end of games. The Falcons were facing Aaron Rodgers on Sunday night, perhaps the best quarterback in the NFL and certainly one of the most dangerous ones in terms of scoring a bunch of points in a hurry. And when an offense is trying to come back, they’re usually passing – and looking to pick up big chunks of yardage. If you take away the big plays down field and are trying to keep everything in front of you, you’re going to give up all the underneath stuff. I am not saying this is exactly what the Falcons were doing. Just talking strategy here. And remember, when teams are coming back like that, they’re usually battling the clock, too. Again, it’s not playing soft; it’s forcing them to settle for the short passes and runs while chewing up the clock and burning up timeouts. And lastly, it’s really hard to shut out NFL teams. In the salary cap era where parity rules, every roster is full of talented players. I don’t think the Falcons worry about style points too much – all they (and the 31 other teams) care about is the win at the end of the day. Hope that helps.

KJ from Portsmouth, VA

Do you think Julio Jones can get 2,000 receiving yards in our offense?

Matt: Julio Jones has 174 receiving yards through two games and has 14 regular-season games to go, KJ. He’s averaging 87 yards per game right now – which means he’s on pace for 1,392 yards in 2017. To hit 2,000 yards receiving, he’ll need 1,826 yards and would have to average 130.5 yards per game for the rest of the year. The most he’s ever averaged per game during his NFL career is 116.9 and that was in 2015 when he finished with 1,871 yards. Do I think he can do it? Sure. Do I think it’s likely? No, but I think he’ll come close if he stays healthy. Again, stats and records are nice, but I think this team is really focused on getting back to the playoffs and making a deep run. That’s just my three cents.

Henry from Washington, D.C.

Hi Matt. I like what you do and how you’re doing it. I liked the aggressive defense the Falcons played with Sunday against the Packers. My question is, do you think the Falcons will be interested in perhaps bringing back Ra’Shede Hageman once he is off suspension?

Matt: Thanks, Henry. No, I don’t. I think that ship has sailed. Thanks for your question.

Barry from High Point, NC

In the last two seasons, Desmond Trufant did not have great mind-blowing stats simply because many quarterbacks refused to throw to his side of the field. Do you see him being the same shut down cornerback that he was before his injury?

Matt: Trufant only played in nine games last season and finished with one interception, two sacks and 25 tackles. The three previous seasons, he started all 16 games and 49 passes defensed. He had a career-high three picks in 2014 and he has eight for his career. I point those numbers out because none of those are, as you put it, mind-blowing stats. But he’s a terrific corner and fits in well with this defense – and that’s why he was rewarded with a five-year contract extension worth a reported $68.75 million with $42 million guaranteed.

Dez from Rochester, NY

Hi Beek, thanks for answering my question. I love the material you put out for us fans. But my question is about “In Brotherhood.” I think that since we started living and playing by this model, our team has become much more a force. I truly feel like these guys are playing for something bigger than the Lombardi (ex., Takk playing for his late grandmother). Would you agree? Do you think that “In Brotherhood” has mentally motivated our team to play with more heart and more fight?

Matt: Thanks, Dez. Glad you enjoy reading Straight from the ’Beek. I started in May of 2017 and, to be honest, did not know a whole lot about the “Brotherhood.” Through my interaction with the coaches, players and every single person who works for the Falcons organization, I can tell you this much: It’s a real thing, and it makes up the fabric of this team. Now, to your question, I think this team plays for each other, yes, and I think they’re motivated by different things. But make no mistake about it: they want a championship. That’s what they and 31 other NFL teams are playing for.

Shane from San Diego, CA

Beek. First, love the column. Our defense is proving themselves. Steve Sarkisian is showing promise as a play caller. My question is, with a road game against the Lions next, who do expect to get more touches running the ball? Both of our backs our tremendous.

Matt: Glad you love it, Shane. This column is for all of you – to let you, the fans, have a voice, too. To your question, yes, the Falcons have two very good running backs. And I think it’s a priority for this team to get them both involved and establish a running game against the Lions (and every single opponent they face). As far as who will get more touches, I think it’ll be Devonta Freeman. If the Falcons can run the ball, it opens up their offense – including the passing game. And that means four things (usually): they’re moving the ball, consuming the clock, scoring points and keeping the other team’s offense on the sideline. That’s a winning formula in most cases, Shane.

Nicholas from Douglasville, GA

The biggest question burning on my mind every time I have walked in to the new establishment is do I go for the Devil’s Back Bone Cheesesteak or the Chicken and Waffle Bowl? What would be your play?

Matt: I’ll be honest with you, Nicholas. I have not been lucky enough to try either of those yet at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. We don’t get that up in the pressbox and I haven’t wandered down before the game or during halftime to try some of those cool places to eat. That said, I’d probably lean toward the Devil’s Back Bone Steak first, mainly because I’ve never tried chicken and waffles together. I’d love to try both eventually.

Cary from Woodstock, GA

When was the last time the Atlanta Falcons scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter?

Matt: The last fourth-quarter score would be Week 1 in a 23-17 win over the Bears, Cary. Matt Ryan connected with Austin Hooper for an 88-yard catch and run on a third-and-3 play from the Falcons’ 12-yard line in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter at Soldier Field. The Falcons didn’t score any points against the Packers in the fourth quarter.

Mike from Rentz, GA

He Beek. I’ve seen people talk about you playing. What’s your real name and what did you play?

Matt: You’ve seen them talk about me, eh? And playing for whom? I haven’t played football since high school – and I played outside linebacker and running back (actually, a wingback) on offense. And this is my real name, but you can call me Beek.

Rayquan from Atlanta, GA

What the defensive plan to stop Matt Stafford on Sunday? And do you think the bond between Matty Ice and Steve Sarkisian is getting better throughout the season?

Matt: I think the best way to stop any great quarterback is to keep him watching on the sideline. The second-best way to stopping any great quarterback is pressure him – bring him down, force him into mistakes or just keep hitting him. That said, the Falcons will have their hands full against Matthew Stafford. The Lions have rebuilt their offensive line and they have some decent skill players. They’re really not known as a running a team – although Ameer Abdullah ran for 86 yards against the Giants on Monday night – and they do most of their damage through the air. As far as Matt Ryan and Steve Sarkisian go, I don’t think there’s ever been any issue there whatsoever. From what we’ve seen and heard, the two get along just fine, are on the same page and have a mutual respect for one another.

Connor from Kennesaw, GA

How much do you think Vic Beasley and Ryan Schraeder’s injuries will affect the team?

Matt: Every position is important, obviously, but I think tackle and defensive end are two vital ones. Whenever you’re talking about injuries, you’re also talking about depth. I think the Falcons’ defensive depth is better than what they have at tackle at the moment. No one knows for sure how long either player will be out. Beasley will be out at least this week and Schraeder was diagnosed with a concussion. Injuries are part of the game and this team has dealt with them in the past. I think they’ll be fine, but let’s wait and see.

HAVE A QUESTION?

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racingtoaredlight · 4 years ago

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RTARL’s 2020 NFL Season Week 17 Extravapalooza

Well, here we are at the end of the most unique NFL season in memory. Was it the smartest idea in the world to stage an entire professional football season in the midst of a rampaging viral pandemic? No, it really wasn’t. But, somehow, the NFL managed to make it through the year without any outright disasters (sorry Broncos, having to start a practice squad WR at QB doesn’t really count), and they did it through the tried and true combination of blind luck and pure willful ignorance. Yay, I guess? I’m not going to pretend that I didn’t appreciate having games to watch, but the whole enterprise was downright impressive in its blatant disregard for common sense and social responsibility. That’s why it’s America’s game!

There’s still a fair amount of playoff-positioning to hash out this week, which always lends a nice bit of urgency to some of the proceedings. I’m far too lazy to go into those particular weeds myself, so I’ll just link you to someone else’s work if you want to study up on the various scenarios in play.

EARLY GAMES

Baltimore Ravens (-14) at Cincinnati Bengals

If the Ravens win, they’re in the playoffs. The Bengals don’t have the horses to offer much resistance against a supremely motivated Ravens team. I will say that the most entertaining turn of events for someone with no dog in the fight would be for Baltimore to somehow lose this game, for the Browns to win, and for Ravens fans to have to sweat the result of the Colts/Jags game to see if they make the playoffs. Friend of the blog Fryan Turd would likely suffer a half-dozen heart attacks in this scenario.

Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills (-2)

I have no idea how important clinching the #2 seed in the AFC is to Buffalo, and if it’s not a big deal to them they may rest some guys for all or some of this game. The Dolphins will remain feisty to the very end, of that I’m certain.

Pittsburgh Steelers at Cleveland Browns (-9)

The Steelers are sitting a whole bunch of guys and the Browns are in the playoffs with a win. I will say that losing this game to Mason Rudolph and subsequently missing the postseason would be an incredibly Brownsy thing to do.

Minnesota Vikings (-4) at Detroit Lions

Despite having nothing to play for and no reason to risk further punishment, Matthew Stafford is suiting up for this one. Dare I say that Stafford is...A GAMER? I do dare say it. I hope he whips ass and the Lions win in what could be his last home game in Detroit. I would sacrifice one of my siblings to get Stafford onto the Patriots this offseason, and also to get a larger share of my family estate.

New York Jets at New England Patriots (-3)

Oh man, this is not going to be a fun game to watch AT ALL. Sullen Bill Belichick, Broken Down Cam Newton, Traumatized Sam Darnold, Dead Man Walking Adam Gase--this game has way too many depressing ingredients, to say nothing of the very-likely-to-be atrocious quality of play. Let’s just move on.

Dallas Cowboys (-1.5) at New York Giants

This is essentially a playoff game, as each of these teams needs to win (and for Washington to lose) in order to clinch the shittiest division of all time. I’m taking Dallas here because they’ve been rolling in recent weeks and Daniel Jones isn’t close to 100% healthy, but what I want most is for the Giants to win, the Football Team to lose, and for us to get the hilarious spectacle of a 6-10 playoff team.

Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-7)

I’ve ridden with the Falcons all season, why stop now?

[looks at season record]

Okay, that might be a good reason to stop. BUT I AIN’T GONNA!

Hey, do you think Matt Ryan could end up on New England? He went to Boston College, right? What have I become, coveting other teams’ used goods? This is no way to live.

LATE GAMES

Green Bay Packers (-4) at Chicago Bears

I’m greatly enjoying the Trubiskaissance. The Bears making the playoffs would make for some tremendous restlessness and conflicting emotions among Bears fans, as a strong showing would likely mean that Mitchell and Matt Nagy will run it back next season. This would entertain me as a man who isn’t a Bears fan.

Las Vegas Raiders (-2.5) at Denver Broncos

I truly have no opinions or thoughts on this particular contest. Oh wait, here’s one: fuck the Raiders for ruining so many of my picks. Here’s another: Do you think New England could trade for Derek Carr? HELP.

Jacksonville Jaguars at Indianapolis Colts (-14)

The Jags are quite possibly the most ready-to-start-their-vacation team in the league, and the Colts need to win this game to make the postseason. I’m bummed about how things turned out for my man Gardner Minshew this season in Jacksonville. I hope he’s able to continue his career with a franchise who appreciates his comedic potential more fully. You know who would love him? Famous mirth-merchant William Belichick.

Los Angeles Chargers (-4.5) at Kansas City Chiefs

Tremendous opportunity for Justin Herbert to pad his already fantastic rookie-year numbers against the K.C. JV team. The thing that makes me the most nervous about this pick is the possibility that Chargers Head Coach Anthony Lynn knows that this is his last game, and as a result will make sure to unveil his most breathtaking piece of clock-mismanagement performance art yet.

Arizona Cardinals (-3) at Los Angeles Rams

I can’t in good conscience get behind a team that intends to start John Wolford at QB, no matter how awesome their defense is. Then again, maybe if Sean McVay basically controls his movements Ratatouille-style the way he does with Jared Goff, he’ll be okay. If Arizona loses and misses the playoffs, Coach Handsome might experience the quickest progression of “This Guy Has No Idea What He’s Doing” to “This Guy Is A Genius Who Is Changing the Way Football Is Played” and back to “This Guy Is a Dipshit” of any coach I can remember.

Seattle Seahawks (-6.5) at San Francisco 49ers

The Seahawks continued there whole “now the defense is good, but the offense is kind of blah” thing last week in a 20-9 win over the Rams, and I see no reason to think things will change. The Niners finally got All-Pro TE George Kittle back from injury, but then immediately lost studly rookie WR Brandon Aiyuk. The injury gods have really had it in for them this season. Despite the brutal injury luck, San Fran has remained competitive all season, and I say they keep this one within a TD.

New Orleans Saints (-6) at Carolina Panthers

The Saints won’t have RBs Alvin Kamara, Latavius Murray, Dwayne Washington, or their fullback Michael Burton. They’ll also be without WR Michael Thomas once again. If I were Saints Head Coach Sean Payton, I’d start Taysom Hill at QB for this game so that he can use his legs to augment the severely diminished run-game, and also to give Drew Brees’ ribs more time to heal. I’d also be an insufferable dickhead. Well, more of one. Okay, I’d be the same, I’d just be addicted to pain pills. More addicted, I mean. I’m Sean Payton.

Tennessee Titans (-7) at Houston Texans

DeShaun Watson has been absurdly good this season, despite the total shitshow around him. He leads the league in Yards Per Attempt while also being third in the league in Completion Percentage at 70.1%. He’s not dinking and dunking his way to his eye-popping numbers. You’d think having a franchise QB in place would make this a primo job opening for potential head coaching candidates, but between the lack of high-end future draft picks and general ownership/executive ineptitude, it’s gotta give a desirable candidate pause. Yikes. Clearly, Houston should trade DeShaun Watson to New England.

SNF: Washington Football Team (-3.5) at Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles have nothing to play for and a bunch of key players are skipping tonight’s game. Among them are TE Dallas Goedert and RB Miles Sanders, which is going to make things extra tough for QB Jalen Hurts against Washington’s exceptionally nasty defense. The Football Team also has major injury questions, as QB Alex Smith, RB Antonio Gibson, and WR Terry McLaurin are all listed as Questionable. As of this writing, it looks like all three of them are going to play, but I have no clue how effective they’ll be. All of this uncertainty does not make for confident betting, imo.

Last Week’s Record: 4-7-1

Season Record: 99-112-8

#Sports!#Football #NFL #Gambling

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giantsfootball0 · 7 years ago

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Questions about Vic Beasley’s injury, Dwight Freeney and stopping Matthew Stafford

Let’s do this.

Conner from Dublin, GA

Do you think Takk McKinley will have a big impact against the Lions, with Vic Beasley out?

Gavin from Ontario, Canada

Hey Matt, I just wanted to apologize. I asked an injury question before the game and now Vic Beasley is out for a month. I hate myself. I’m so angry.

Brett from Lake City, FL

Is there a story behind the celebratory train horn? It doesn’t seem original enough for our one-of-a-kind stadium and team.

Tony from Waynesboro, GA

Nick from Chatsworth, GA

Hi Beek. Are the Falcons gonna have to start shutting teams out to get the soft defense comments at the end of games to stop? Go Falcons. Rise up

KJ from Portsmouth, VA

Do you think Julio Jones can get 2,000 receiving yards in our offense?

Henry from Washington, D.C.

Matt: Thanks, Henry. No, I don’t. I think that ship has sailed. Thanks for your question.

Barry from High Point, NC

Dez from Rochester, NY

Shane from San Diego, CA

Nicholas from Douglasville, GA

Cary from Woodstock, GA

When was the last time the Atlanta Falcons scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter?

Mike from Rentz, GA

He Beek. I’ve seen people talk about you playing. What’s your real name and what did you play?

Rayquan from Atlanta, GA

What the defensive plan to stop Matt Stafford on Sunday? And do you think the bond between Matty Ice and Steve Sarkisian is getting better throughout the season?

Connor from Kennesaw, GA

How much do you think Vic Beasley and Ryan Schraeder’s injuries will affect the team?

HAVE A QUESTION?

The post Questions about Vic Beasley’s injury, Dwight Freeney and stopping Matthew Stafford appeared first on Daily Star Sports.

from https://dailystarsports.com/2017/09/20/questions-about-vic-beasleys-injury-dwight-freeney-and-stopping-matthew-stafford/ from https://dailystarsports.tumblr.com/post/165540242486

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junker-town · 5 years ago

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The Packers and Seahawks have a really weird history

The “Fail Mary” was an exceptional weird moment in a game between two teams who usually provide weird moments.

The Seahawks and Packers have provided plenty of wacky moments, from Matt Hasselbeck’s coin toss hubris to the Fail Mary.

The Seattle Seahawks are especially prone to weirdness. That’s a product of the Seahawks playing in more dramatic games than any other team in the NFL. In the last eight seasons, they’ve been part of a league-most 82 games decided by one score.

Play in that many close games and you’re bound to have some memorable finishes.

And no team has been a better dance partner for peak wackiness than the Green Bay Packers. The two franchises have only met 22 times ever — largely because the Seahawks were in the AFC until 2002 — and 13 of those matchups have happened in the last 16 years, including three in the postseason.

Now, for the fourth time, the Seahawks and Packers are set to meet in the playoffs.

Seattle is as maddening as ever with 12 of its 16 regular season games in 2019 decided by eight points or fewer. Even a 17-9 win against the Eagles on Wild Card Weekend was unnecessarily close with Carson Wentz sidelined for the majority of the game.

The Packers haven’t exactly been blowing out teams, either. Despite a 13-3 record, the team finished the regular season No. 18 in offense and No. 18 in defense.

All that means the Divisional Round meeting is ripe for chaos with the SB Nation panel of experts struggling to decide which team to pick. Oddsmakers think the game will be close and bettors are jumping on the Seahawks as an underdog.

But even if it ends up providing an unforgettable finish, it’ll take a lot to be the wildest in Seahawks-Packers history. Here’s a timeline of barnburners between the two teams:

Jan. 4, 2004: “We want the ball and we’re gonna score”

The first ever postseason meeting between the Seahawks and Packers was also one of the few close games the two teams had played to that point. The three matchups prior were all decided by at least 20 points, making a 20-14 Seahawks win in 1990 their last halfway-decent contest.

In 2003, the Packers and Seahawks both finished the season with double-digit wins and faced off in the Wild Card Round. It not only promised to be a quality game, but it actually lived up to the hype.

Brett Favre and Matt Hasselbeck both threw for more than 300 yards, while running backs Ahman Green and Shaun Alexander traded scores. Green ran for two fourth-quarter touchdowns to give the Packers a late lead. Alexander’s third touchdown of the day tied the game back up in the final minute of regulation.

The most memorable moment of the game wasn’t even a play, though. It was the overtime coin toss. That’s when Hasselbeck (a former Packers quarterback, no less) provided the ultimate “Icarus flying too close to the sun” quote. After winning the toss, he confidently told the official, “We want the ball and we’re gonna score.” Of course, you can guess how that turned out:

Seahawks vs. @packers in the 2003 NFC Wild Card. The game that brought us the infamous line: "We want the ball and we're gonna score." (Jan. 4, 2004)#SEAvsGB: Sunday at 6:40pm ET on FOX pic.twitter.com/6Rc2xvr24V

— NFL Throwback (@nflthrowback) January 10, 2020

Hasselbeck’s hubris immediately came back to bite him when Al Harris jumped a route and returned an interception 52 yards for a game-winning touchdown. The Packers went on to lose in the next round to the Eagles, but at least they gave us something that’s still hilarious 16 years later.

Nov. 27, 2006: Snow in Seattle

The first-ever Seahawks home game with snow came on Monday Night Football against a team accustomed to playing in the cold. While the Seahawks had playoff aspirations with a 6-4 record, it was year one of Mike McCarthy’s tenure in Green Bay and the Packers entered just 4-6.

It was Green Bay that jumped out to an early lead, though.

Hasselbeck returned after missing four games due to a leg injury and didn’t have a great start against the team that became his nemesis two years earlier. He turned the ball over four times in the first half, with three interceptions and one fumble.

In the third quarter, the Packers had a 21-12 lead, and then Hasselbeck flipped a switch. He threw three touchdowns in the last 22 minutes to lead Seattle to a 34-24 win. It wasn’t exactly a crazy ending, but Hasselbeck exorcised some Packers demons in the comeback win.

Sept. 24, 2012: The Fail Mary

A labor dispute between the NFL and the NFL Referees Association meant replacement officials — taken from high school, lower-level college divisions, the Arena Football League, and the Legends Football League — were hired to fill the void. Unsurprisingly, they made plenty of mistakes.

The world seemed to forget that the NFL’s usual team of officials does that too, albeit to a lesser degree. Still, the tidal wave of criticism eventually forced the NFL to yield to the demands of the NFLRA and agree to a new collective bargaining agreement.

The final straw was the last play of a Monday Night Football contest between the Packers and Seahawks.

Green Bay had a 12-7 lead in the final seconds of the game, but Seattle’s rookie quarterback Russell Wilson was trying to lead his team down the field for a game-winning touchdown. A 22-yard pass to Sidney Rice got the Seahawks to the Packers’ 24-yard line, and then three consecutive incomplete passes left Seattle with no choice but to throw for the end zone.

Wilson lobbed a ball into a mass of six players and both Seahawks receiver Golden Tate and Packers safety M.D. Jennings caught the ball. They both came down wrestling for the ball, although Jennings appeared to have slightly more control of it.

youtube

One official standing next to the pile signaled it was a touchdown. The other said it was an interception and a touchback. After a conference among the officials, the play was ruled a touchdown and a replay review confirmed the call.

The Seahawks won, 14-12, and two days later the NFL’s regular officials were officially welcomed back.

The result proved to be an important one. While Seattle would’ve wound up with fifth seed in the NFC regardless, Green Bay ended up one win short of a first-round bye in the playoffs. That spot instead went to the 49ers, who — after a week off — eliminated the Packers in the Divisional Round.

Damn you, replacement refs (even though it was probably the right call).

Jan. 18, 2015: The Seahawks pull off a comeback for the ages

Green Bay appeared to be headed to Super Bowl 49 when it had a 19-7 lead with less than three minutes left in the NFC Championship Game. The Seahawks’ only points in the first three quarters came when punter Jon Ryan threw a 19-yard touchdown to offensive tackle Garry Gilliam on a fake field goal.

Russell Wilson, on the other hand, had four interceptions.

But with just over two minutes left, Wilson finally led the Seahawks down the field. He hit a 26-yard pass down the sideline to Marshawn Lynch that got Seattle in the red zone. Then Wilson finished the drive himself with a 1-yard rushing touchdown.

The Seahawks recovered the ensuing onside kick and needed just four plays to score. Lynch broke free on a 24-yard touchdown — one of his many spectacular playoff moments — that gave Seattle the lead with 1:33 remaining. In a matter of 40 seconds, the Seahawks turned a 19-7 deficit into a 22-19 lead.

A fake field goal. A successful onside kick. A prayer of a two-point conversion... Four years ago today, the @Seahawks reached the Super Bowl in the wildest way possible. pic.twitter.com/MPaaPPvDh6

— NFL Throwback (@nflthrowback) January 19, 2019

The Packers drove the field in the final minute to tie the game up and force overtime. However, the Seahawks won the coin toss and Green Bay never touched the ball again. On the first possession of overtime, Wilson ended the game with a 35-yard touchdown pass to Jermaine Kearse.

These two teams have played four more times since that incredible NFC Championship duel, all during the regular season. None have been anywhere near as thrilling, although a 27-24 Seahawks win on Thursday Night Football in 2018 was another tight battle.

The 2020 Divisional Round matchup between Green Bay and Seattle has all the makings to revive an under-the-radar rivalry that has produced several of the NFL’s most iconic moments of the 21st century.

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first-and-ten · 7 years ago

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Week 13 Preview

I got a cat and she’s super cute but she runs away if I react too strongly to football games. I think this is what football fans with small children feel like. Not that there’s a lot to react to during Broncos games. There’s a scary chance that of the 4 teams I root for, only the Saints will make the playoffs. #DarkestTimeline.

WSH 21 - 24 DAL $4 DAL -1.5 - Unpopular Opinion - Washington has been better than their record, but you can see attrition catching up with them. Dallas will have Tyron Smith back and more time to gameplan than their previous games without Zeke. This is kind of a toss-up game, but just looking at things like momentum and whatnot, I’m giving the ‘Boys a slight edge.

IND 24 - 26 JAX $1 IND +9.5 I don’t think Jacoby Brissett is going anywhere fast against this defense, but Bortles scares me. He keeps trying to give away games and managed to do it last week. But the Colts are not the Cardinals, and I think Jacksonville prevails.

TB 12 - 20 GB $5 GB -2.5 The Packers are emboldened by the prospect of a Rodgers return. They’re figuring out who they are, and they’re playing at home against a bad team. There’s every reason to believe they’ll pull this off.

SF 20 - 17 CHI $4 SF +3.5 - Unpopular Opinion - - Game to Watch - Garoppolo’s first start could serve as a spark for the Niners, but more importantly, the Bears are looking terrible without Leonard Floyd.

HOU 17 - 23 TEN $1 HOU +6.5 I wouldn’t touch this game with a ten foot pole. The Texans are bad enough to get blown out by anyone but I’ll believe the Titans can blow someone out when I see it.

DET 21 - 14 BAL $9 DET +2.5 - Unpopular Opinion - How are the Ravens favored here? The Lions have a good enough defense to shut Baltimore down. Meanwhile the Ravens lean on their defense but the Lions have a QB in Matt Stafford that can handle what the Ravens have.

MIN 30 - 20 ATL $5 MIN +2.5 - Unpopular Opinion - - Game to Watch - How are the Falcons favored here??? They haven’t proven anything to the level of the Vikings. This should be fun, but the Falcons will have a tough time on offense. If anyone can neutralize the Atlanta pass rush it’s Minnesota. They win on the road in the matchup of teams with new indoor stadiums.

KC 10 - 12 NYJ $4 NYJ +3.5 - Unpopular Opinion - Neither of these teams instills a lot of confidence but the Chiefs in particular don’t get the benefit of my doubt until they show up.

NE 34 - 15 BUF $80 NE -8.5 - Lock it Up - This line is nowhere near enough. The Bills are not capable of playing Brady. This isn’t difficult.

DEN 1 - 2 MIA $5 MIA -0.5 - Survivor - This may be one of the worst matchups from a football perspective I’ve ever planned to watch. These teams have a lot of ties: The Dolphins are coached by former Broncos OC Adam Gase, quarterbacked by Broncos draftee Jay Cutler, and have former Broncos TE Julius Thomas. The Broncos are coached by former Dolphins DC Vance Joseph. Neither team should win this game, but one team is battling the flu and playing on the road, so I’ll go with not them.

CLE 10 - 31 LAC $6 LAC -13.5 - Lock it Up - - Game to Watch - The Chargers mercy-ruled the Browns’ 2016 season by letting them win to avoid going 0-16. Not gonna happen this time, not when the Browns have given up and lost Joe Thomas, and not when the Chargers are pushing for the playoffs. Then again, this is the first opportunity to see Josh Gordon play football in like forever. I’m morbidly curious how he’ll do.

NYG 17 - 21 OAK $1 NYG +6.5 It would be hilarious if the Giants swept the non-Chargers AFC West.

CAR 24 - 33 NO $3 NO -3.5 - Game to Watch - Battle for the south! The Saints whipped the Panthers in Carolina earlier this year. This time they’ll go in banged up on defense but still the more talented team. I would not be surprised to get this one wrong but I feel confident going with the common sense pick.

LAR 36 - 26 ARI $5 LAR -6.5 Last time we saw this matchup the Rams shut out Arizona in London. This one is on Cardinals turf but the mismatch is still the same. No reason to think the Cards will pull the upset.

PHI 41 - 28 SEA $14 PHI -5.5 - Lock it Up - - Game to Watch - The Eagles have been picking on weak competition, now they get to pick on decent but not great competition. Seattle is tricky, but I see no reason to think they can be the thing that derails the Philly hype train.

PIT 32 - 21 CIN $13 PIT -6.5 - NFL Title Belt (PIT) - - Lock it Up - The Steelers are 10-0 in their last 10 primetime games. The Bengals are 2-8.

Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can’t Lose!

#saints #packers #chargers #week 13 #nfl #2017 predictions

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movietvtechgeeks · 8 years ago

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Latest story from https://movietvtechgeeks.com/will-fifth-super-bowl-ring-prove-tom-brady-greatest/

Will a fifth Super Bowl ring prove Tom Brady the greatest?

New England Patriots star quarterback Tom Brady is always able to elicit opposing opinions with everything he does. With Super Bowl 51, many are asking if winning five rings will finally put naysayers to rest.

NFL Network’s Marshall Faulk chimed in with what many have said in the past. He felt that there should be an asterisk by Brady’s name when it comes to the question if he’s the greatest quarterback in NFL history.

Here’s what Faulk had to say on the subject:

Host Rich Eisen: What’s the asterisk?

Faulk: Come on Rich. I don’t even want to get into that. Man is about to play in his seventh Super Bowl, he has a chance at winning five, it’s been great. But some things has happened and we know what those things are — when you talk about Super Bowls and things that has happened along the lines with the Patriots and we just cannot pretend like they didn’t happen.

Faulk, of course, was addressing the SpyGate controversy. The Patriots defeated Faulk and the Rams back in Super Bowl XXXVI 20-17 thanks in part to their game plan to slow the running back down.

Faulk was the only panelist who brought up the Patriots’ uncertain past. Both Steve Mariucci and Kurt Warner suggested a win Sunday by the Patriots quarterback would either cement his legacy as the greatest of all time, or simply elevate his status since he’s already there.

“I know I’m going to hear from the 49er faithful and they’re gonna say, ‘Mooch, come on, Montana 4-0, never lost one,’ all that kind of thing,” Mariucci said. “And then I’m gonna hear from the Green Bay Packer fans because they’re gonna say Bart Starr won five and he lost one in the championship game. But you know what? This is a different era. There are 32 teams now. We have free agency. You know how difficult it is to get to the Super Bowl and he’s done it seven times? It’s not just five wins, it’s two silver medals too. This guy’s resume is second to none.”

Added Warner: “I’m with Troy Aikman on this one, I believe he’s already there. We talk about the Super Bowls, and if he wins he’s got five, and he’s played in seven. But it’s just the longevity of the consistency that he’s had. I mean, you’re talking 11 AFC Championship Games in 16 years. Now I know they didn’t get to the Super Bowl every time, but that’s incredible when you think about it. Eleven opportunities to get to the Super Bowl. Seven of them, they got there – has a chance to win five.

“He’s just been so consistent for so long with so many different guys. I think that’s the thing that impresses you too. You look at some of these other dynasties we talk about; it was primarily the same guys that won those Super Bowls over and over again. This has been over a long course of time with a lot of different players and he continually gets his team back and find ways to win, I put him at the best already even if he doesn’t win today.”

He may not have the precision of Joe Montana, the arm of Terry Bradshaw, the grit of John Elway or the mind of Peyton Manning.

What Tom Brady does have are the numbers. And, win or lose in the Super Bowl on Sunday, he has built as strong a case as anyone that he is the greatest quarterback ever.

A Patriots victory would give Brady his fifth Super Bowl ring, and put him one notch ahead of Montana and Bradshaw for the most ever for a quarterback. But the “Greatest” debate was, in many minds, resolved even before kickoff because of these two numbers: seven Super Bowl appearances and 22 playoff wins, both records that will be difficult for anyone to catch.

“In my mind, it’s already set,” Kurt Warner said earlier in the week, before being elected to the Hall of Fame, where Brady will join him someday. “We all have different takes and different things that say someone’s the greatest. At the end of the day, he’s going to have more of these (Super Bowls) than anyone else. The fact you play in seven Super Bowls, it’s ridiculous.”

The postseason success not only represents Brady’s ability to perform when the stakes are highest, it reflects his ability to keep the Patriots in the mix during their best years, and even the seasons that aren’t so good.

Since taking over the starting position in 2001, Brady’s teams have missed the playoffs only once, in 2002 (they also missed in 2008, when Brady was injured). Since then, they have strung together double-digit-win seasons and playoff appearances every year. Brady has made mediocre rosters good, good rosters great and helped lift the great rosters to championships.

Some say he should have six rings. Brady got outplayed in two Super Bowl losses to the Giants, including in 2008, when New England was trying to close out a perfect season.

Mere quibbles in this discussion.

“As much as I love John, it’s hard to say Brady is not the greatest,” said former Broncos running back Terrell Davis, also a newly announced Hall of Famer, who teamed with Elway for two titles. “Let’s be honest there. What we’ve seen him do with rosters that other teams would’ve gone 2-14 or 3-13 with, this man has taken to championships. You can’t ignore that fact.”

Brady’s 28 touchdowns and two interceptions since he returned from his season-opening four-game suspension for “Deflategate” set the record for best TD-interception ratio in a season. He has 61,582 passing yards, which ranks him fourth all-time. He has never had a completion percentage under 60 in any season.

Though Manning won the two most recent big games between them – the 2014 and 2016 AFC title games – before heading into retirement, Brady got the best of his main rival throughout their long side-by-side careers. He won the overall series 11-6. Manning won five MVP awards to only two for Brady, but in the Super Bowl, Brady captured three of those to one for Manning. Manning closed his career with two titles; Brady’s final total: TBD.

“I’m a little biased, I had a guy for 11 years,” said Reggie Wayne, one of Manning’s favorite targets in Indianapolis. “But if Tom Brady wins this one, it’s kind of hard not to say he’s the best quarterback of all time.”

It seems like a foregone conclusion, in large part because Brady is showing no signs of wanting to step down. He turns 40 in August and has talked about wanting to play until he’s 45, or longer. He takes meticulous care of himself and, in many ways, finds that easier to do now than when he was younger.

“It gets easier because you have priorities,” he said. “If one of my priorities is to be a great quarterback, everything else falls in line.”

Willie McGinest, a teammate of Brady’s when the quarterback took over the starting job for Drew Bledsoe in 2001 – the first Super Bowl season – said Brady was prepared from Day One.

“You see guys get injured and the guy who comes in doesn’t do so well,” McGinest said. “It’s tough to do that and win football games, let alone be the best in the game from the time he took over until now.”

For years, a debate has percolated about whether Brady would be what he is without his coach, Bill Belichick, and vice versa.

Doesn’t matter, Warner says. The former Rams and Cardinals quarterback says that more than any specific throw, any single run to the championship or any one statistic Brady has compiled, he is great because he’s been great year after year, regardless of the players or sometimes-challenging circumstances surrounding him.

“We’d all love to be in one place, stay healthy and see what we could do, but we all don’t get that opportunity,” Warner said. “For him to have that opportunity and take advantage of it the way he has, you admire it. Especially when you know it’s the most difficult position in sports to play.”

var VUUKLE_EMOTE_SIZE = "90px"; VUUKLE_EMOTE_IFRAME = "180px" var EMOTE_TEXT = ["HAPPY","INDIFFERENT","AMUSED","EXCITED","ANGRY"]

Movie TV Tech Geeks News

#Featured #Marshall Faulk #New England Patriots #NFL #Tom Brady

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racingtoaredlight · 4 years ago

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RTARL’s 2020 NFL Season Week 13 Extravapalooza

I’m cranking this bad boy out in a rush on Saturday morning, which is much earlier than I normally do it. I’m doing this because I’m fixin’ to get Nor’easter’d all to hell later on and I very well may be without electricity and/or internet for a bit. Fun! So, the blurbs will be downsized and unaided by last-minute injury info or juicy news nuggets about locker room morale, and the lines themselves may have moved by the time kickoff rolls around. I’d say this week’s Extravapalooza will be more useless than normal, but that would imply that past editions have provided any utility whatsoever to anyone.

EARLY GAMES

Jacksonville Jaguars at Minnesota Vikings (-10)

The constant, oppressive potential for the Vikings to go full Vikings and soil themselves at the most hilarious time has me taking a Mike Glennon-led squad on the road as a double-digit underdog. What a time to be alive!

New Orleans Saints (-3) at Atlanta Falcons

Falcons WR Julio Jones is listed as questionable, and as of this writing I can’t find any reports that give an indication if his status leans one way or another. This is unhelpful, because Atlanta’s offense is way better with him in the lineup. Fuck it, I’m plowing ahead as if he’s gonna be in there. Saints QB Taysom Hill made his first start against the Falcons just two weeks ago, and he looked pretty good in that game. I can’t imagine Atlanta is keen on having that happen again.

Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears (-3)

Lions WR Kenny Golladay is still out, and RB D’Anrde Swift is expected to be “eased in” if he plays at all. Gonna be tough sleddin’ for Matthew Stafford and the fellas, I reckon.

Cleveland Browns at Tennessee Titans (-5.5)

Hell yes, this is going to be a glorious avalanche of rushing attempts by both squads. I can’t wait. Ultimately, I have more confidence in the Titans’ ability to mix in an effective passing game, and I think that’ll be the difference. Cleveland’s monstrous DE Myles Garrett is returning to action after missing two games with COVID-19. I hope Myles suffers no lingering effects and continues to pummel opposing QBs each week from here on out.

Cincinnati Bengals at Miami Dolphins (-10.5)

There used to be a television commercial asking for donations for a fund dedicated to saving wild tigers, and it would show images of tiger skins, various cruel snares and traps used to hunt tigers, cubs orphaned after their mom was killed by poachers, and other extremely depressing shit. Thinking about the current Cincinnati Bengals bums me out almost as much as that commercial. That said, I think they can cover 10.5 against a Tua-led Miami offense.

Las Vegas Raiders (-8.5) at New York Jets

The Jets are 3-8 against the spread this season, despite routinely being given so many points that I actually laugh out loud. Adam Gase is a true artist, and I’ll be sad when he’s gone. Having said all of that, fuck the Raiders.

Indianapolis Colts (-3) at Houston Texans

The Indy defense has been one of the better units in the league this season (last week’s Derrick Henry rampage notwithstanding), so I’m thinking Houston QB DeShaun Watson will have a tough go of things after losing his fave WR Will Fuller to a PED suspension.

LATE GAMES

New York Giants at Seattle Seahawks (-11)

The Seattle secondary has been dog vomit all year, but even they should be able to handle Colt McCoy. Maybe.

Los Angeles Rams (-3) at Arizona Cardinals

I don’t know if it’s because he’s nursing a shoulder injury or what, but Cardinals QB Kyler Murray has mostly stopped running the ball over the last two games (both losses). He had 15, and 31 rushing yards in those games, and that ain’t gonna cut it against Aaron Donald and the boys, I’m afraid.

Philadelphia Eagles at Green Bay Packers (-8.5)

The Eagles are busted all to shit.

New England Patriots at Los Angeles Chargers (-1.5)

I love Justin Herbert, but the Patriots typically bamboozle the fuck out of rookie QBs.

SNF: Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs (-13.5)

The Chiefs beat the Broncos 43-16 in their earlier matchup in October, and I don’t see much reason to think it’ll be a whole lot different this time around.

MNF (Early): Washington Football Team at Pittsburgh Steelers (-7)

So help me, I really like what the Football Team is doing and I’m actually rooting for them. Pittsburgh’s insistence on throwing on every down plays right into the hands of Washington’s top-shelf pass defense, and I think the Team has a real chance at handing the Steelers their first loss.

MNF (Late): Buffalo Bills at San Francisco 49ers (-1)

I’m really hoping we get the maximum Josh Allen Experience in this one, since he’s got the national spotlight all to himself. He might literally hurl a football through somebody’s sternum.

TNF: Dallas Cowboys at Baltimore Ravens

This game isn’t on the books at most places, because it remains unclear how many of the guys on Baltimore’s COVID/RESERVE list will be coming off in time to play. So, no pick from me.

Last Week’s Record: 5-8-1

Season Record: 74-85-6

#Sports!#Football #NFL #Gambling

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racingtoaredlight · 4 years ago

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RTARL’s 2020 NFL Season Week 12 Extravapalooza

I thought it was fitting, if not downright poetic, that the Lions and Cowboys were dispassionately brutalized in front of the nation on Thanksgiving Day. This was a Thanksgiving that saw all of our traditions sadly, yet appropriately, put aside, so of course these Turkey Day stalwarts found themselves summarily flushed down the toilet along with extended family card games, giant tables covered in desserts, and hours-long gossip sessions with folks you don’t see as often as you’d like. Hopefully, next year we can all enjoy the Lions and Cowboys failing spectacularly while in the company of all of our friends and loved ones, while we point and laugh as God intended.

EARLY GAMES

Los Angeles Chargers at Buffalo Bills (-4.5)

Oh yeah, this is the good stuff. These two teams rank very highly in my own personal Watchability Index, and I fully expect this to be a ton of fun. In my mind there isn’t a lot of separation between these teams, despite the fact that the Bills have a much better record and have beaten several good teams, whereas the Chargers’ three wins (only 2 with QB Justin Herbert at the helm) have come against bottom-feeders. I have no idea what I’m talking about, is what you should take away from this.

Las Vegas Raiders (-3) at Atlanta Falcons

Oh boy. We have the Raiders, a team who always burns me when I pick against them, and the Falcons, a team who always burns me when I pick them to cover. Something’s gotta give! Or maybe the power of these two opposing forces will rip the fabric of the universe asunder and mercifully send us all into the vast, peaceful void of eternal slumber. Or, I could just pick the Raiders and avoid that whole possibility. You’re welcome, or I’m sorry, depending on where your head’s at these days.

New York Giants (-6) at Cincinnati Bengals

The devastating, season-ending knee injury to Bengals QB Joe Burrow bums me right the hell out. Cincinnati will be starting Brandon Allen under center, and they will be officially unwatchable for the remainder of the year. The Giants have won 2 in a row and have been looking feisty, which annoys me because I really wanted horribly-chafed penis and Giants HC Joe Judge to flame out with lightning speed.

Miami Dolphins (-7) at New York Jets

Tua will be sitting this one out and I was gonna make a “Ryan Fitzpatrick Revenge Game”-joke, but then I realized that practically every game could be a revenge game for Fitzpatrick at this point. Jets QB Sam Darnold will be making his return to the lineup, and I still have absolutely no idea how good he is. His career has been absolutely tragicomic up to this point. I hope he leaves the Jets and spends a couple of seasons enrolled in Andy Reid QB School backing up Patrick Mahomes or something. Ooh, or maybe he can go to Indy and take over for Phillip Rivers.

Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts (-3)

A battle for divisional supremacy between a pair of teams each coming off of thrilling overtime wins over good teams? Don’t mind if I do! These two squads just played each other two weeks ago, with Indy winning 34-17. Titans QB Ryan Tannehill was hot garbage in that game, and RB Derrick Henry “only” touched the ball 19 times. I don’t expect Tannehill to be THAT bad again, and I DO expect Henry to get the ball more often, especially since Indy will be without 2 starting D-lineman (DT DeForest Buckner and DE Denico Autry). Mostly, I’m picking the Titans because I think these two teams are very evenly matched and therefore splitting their season series fits into a nice, neat little logic box in my brain. This is not the kind of logic one should follow when gambling.

Carolina Panthers at Minnesota Vikings (-3)

Panthers QB Teddy Bridgewater makes his glorious return after a one-game absence for this one, and I think he and WRs DJ Moore, Robby Anderson, and Curtis Samuel are going to conspire to ruin the days of the entire terrible Minnesota secondary. The Vikes look like they’ll be without the services of NFL TD reception-leader Adam Thielen, so they’re going to be a bit compromised on offense. I smell a Bad Kurt Cousins game. Could just be a turkey drumstick that fell underneath my couch, though.

Arizona Cardinals (-2) at New England Patriots

New England does not have the defensive speed to contain QB Kyler Murray. I have visions of many demoralizing drive-extending 3rd down runs dancing in my head, and it’s upsetting. The only way the Pats have a chance is if QB Cam Newton and RB Damien Harris combine for like 40 effective carries and keep Calimari on the sideline as much as possible.

Cleveland Browns (-7) at Jacksonville Jaguars

Holy shit, Mike Glennon is starting at QB for the Jags. Oh, and he’ll be without WRs D.J. Chark and Chris Conley. I feel bad for RB James Robinson, because he’s quietly been one of the best players in the league this season, and he doesn’t deserve the indignity of participating in this game. He’s gonna get a chance to eat in this one for sure, but no man can overcome the Glennon factor. The Browns have to take care of business here.

LATE GAMES

San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Rams (-6.5)

Since losing TE George Kittle and QB Jimmy Garoppolo (for the 2nd time), the Niners have dropped three-straight games, all by double-digits. That’s not good! They’re getting RB Raheem Mostert and WR Deebo Samuel back today (Yay!), but studly rookie WR Brandon Aiyuk is out and Santa Clara County just booted them the hell out of their stadium and practice facilities for the foreseeable future (Boo!). They’ve got a lot of shit going on right now, is what I’m saying. The Rams are comin’ in hot off of wins against Seattle and Tampa Bay, and I think they keep it rolling.

New Orleans Saints (-15.5) at Denver Broncos

Well, this game is set to be a total goat rodeo. Denver’s entire quarterback depth chart has been ruled out due to exposure to COVID-19, so they’re starting current practice-squad WR and former Wake Forest QB Kendall Hinton. I would love nothing more than for Hinton to shock the world and light it up, but the Saints defense has made both Tom Brady and Matt Ryan look like complete trash in the last 3 weeks, so I don’t like young Mr. Hinton’s odds, I’m afraid. The NFL is really boning Denver by not moving this game to Tuesday. The horse whisperer in charge of calming John Elway down is really gonna have their work cut out for them this week.

Kansas City Chiefs (-3.5) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

It’s terrifying to pick against Kansas City, but this is merely a bet that the good version of the Bucs shows up today. You won’t find this kind of in-depth analysis on any of those subscription sites! I will say that if I’m wrong and Tom Brady sucks once again resulting in another week of passive-aggressive Bruce Arians, I won’t be that upset.

SNF: Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers (-9.5)

MNF: Seattle Seahawks (-6) at Philadelphia Eagles

Apparently, Eagles HC Doug Pederson “wouldn’t be totally unhappy if he were fired,” and rookie QB Jalen Hurts was getting 1st team reps during practice this week, so things may be dangerously close to going completely off the rails in Philly. Fun!

TNF(?): Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers (-9.5)

The NFL is a fucking clown show for forcing these teams to play this week.

Last Week’s Record: 4-9

Season Record: 69-77-5

#Sports!#Football #NFL #Gambling

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