By Rick Eggleston
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Well, that’s more like it.
Just when you thought Tom Brady had lost his Midas touch throwing the football, along came Sunday’s game with the hapless, hopeless, downright pathetic Tennessee Titans. Ah yes, there’s nothing that a good old-fashioned ass whooping (in a snowstorm no less) on an inferior team can’t fix.
With his record five passing touchdowns in the second quarter, including two in a row to Randy Moss, Brady and the Pats flashed back to 2007 for a few hours on Sunday and it felt good. The 59-0 shelling also provided a certain reassurance that Brady can still throw the football with accuracy, power and purpose. Reports of Brady’s demise have been greatly exaggerated.
The Titans, on the other hand, head into their bye week having reached rock bottom. How virtually the same team from a year ago in which they started the season 10-0 returns to start this season 0-6, isn’t exactly clear. While injuries have been a factor, every team has them and is forced to make due. The Patriots have so far, as evidenced Sunday when Sammy Morris — starting in place of injured starting running back Fred Taylor — left the game with a wrenched knee and saw Laurence Maroney answer the bell. New England’s defense has done the same, battling through early-season injuries.
It may come down to bad karma for the Titans, who are cursed, as one Steelers fan suggested on a newspaper team forum site. “The Curse of Terrible Towel,” wrote Ivan the Terrible of Wallingford, Pa., has gripped the Titans since, “LenDale White and friends stomped on the Terrible Towel last season,” following their 31-14 blowout of the Steelers in Week 16. Turns out that’s the last time the Titans won a game, as they went on to lose their season finale and were bounced in the divisional round of the playoffs by the Ravens. The Steelers, meanwhile, went on to win the Super Bowl.
Scuffling Bruins Shake Things Up
Taking a page from the Patriots’ playbook, the Bruins showed Monday that they aren’t about to accept complacency and half-assed efforts when they sent $2.3 million right winger Chuck Kobasew packing to Minnesota.
As surprising as the move is, so too is the Bruins’ lackluster 3-4-0 start. After NHL schedule makers seemingly gift-wrapped the Bruins what should’ve been a 5-0 start by having them open their season with five straight home games — something that almost never happens these days, let alone to the Bruins, who have virtually started every previous season on the road due to the circus’ annual visit to town — the B’s squandered it by going 2-3.
The main contributor to the B’s slow start has been their lack of effort and intensity on offense, where Kobasew had just one assist through the first seven games. Something — and somebody — had to give, and Kobasew is the wake-up call the Bruins so desperately need. While Kobasew’s teammates were surprised by the move, they understand it’s a business and the business is to win hockey games. Whether Kobasew’s — who netted 21 goals last season — abrupt departure helps or ultimately hurts in that goal, of course, remains to be seen.
Just ask Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas, who was put on notice and the bench by coach Bill Belichick prior to Sunday’s game with Tennessee. While Thomas, a two-time Pro-Bowler, doesn’t appear to be injured nor would Belichick come out and say during his Monday media briefing it was a performance issue with Thomas, trade winds are blowing. Rams running back Steven Jackson would look pretty good in a Patriots throwback.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Notre Dame's postseason aspirations in serious peril.
By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
The USC game on Saturday was more than a rivalry game. It was more than a measuring stick for how far the Irish had come. It was the gateway to the postseason. And now that door is closing. One more loss and it will be slamming shut.
The Irish went into this season with questions upon questions and heading into Saturday's game, not many had been answered. The Irish drubbed Nevada, but its next four games all came down to the last minute or overtime. They were 11 seconds from being 5-0 and about at the same token, they were about one minute from being 1-4.
Notre Dame took to their home field and defended it honorably against the Trojans. They could have folded and called it a day when they fell behind, 34-14, but they didn't give up, cutting a 20-point deficit to seven and within four yards of sending the game to overtime.
But near wins count for nothing and the loss just adds to the questions surrounding Notre Dame.
Just how good is this team?
By most accounts, it seems pretty clear that pollsters see Notre Dame as a good team, but not great. The AP poll ranks the Irish 26th. The Harris Poll has them at 28th, while the USA Today rankings put them 30th. The computers don't seem to be quite sure what to think of the Irish, as different formulas rank them anywhere from 17th to 31st. Combine the Harris and USA Today polls with the computers and BCS rankings have Notre Dame at 31st.
Bottom line, if the Irish want to even have a shot at the BCS, they need to win out. And with the remaining schedule, it's easier said than done.
Boston College, who has won six straight against the Irish and four of the last five games in South Bend. The Eagles have done well victimizing weak defenses, especially against the run, and Notre Dame qualifies. The difference between this matchup an the Eagles' previous wins is their opponents have not exactly had powerhouse offenses. Notre Dame does.
Washington State is the only real cupcake on this season's schedule for the Irish and doesn't figure to be a huge challenge.
But that is followed by the toughest matchup remaining on paper and what could be the Irish's biggest bargaining chip. Pitt is currently ranked 20th in the BCS rankings with two winnable games against South Florida and Syracuse coming up that could improve its stock. If the Irish comes in at 6-2 and beats the Panthers, they could put themselves into a decent position heading into the final two games of the season. But again, a strong running attack could pose some serious problems for Notre Dame.
Connecticut suffered a major tragedy for its program with Jasper Howard getting stabbed to death on campus on Saturday, just hours after getting the game ball. How the team carries on the rest of the season remains to be seen, but from what the coach has shown so far in terms of being a rock for his players, the Huskies should be just fine in terms of on-field play, but are beatable.
Stanford is another game that the Irish could easily cough up, but also looks beatable.
Lose another game and they are done. Win out and it could get interesting. The BCS championship chances are long gone, not that they were really ever there to begin with, but heading into the USC game, there was still a sense of confidence that the BCS was within reach. But can the Irish really come off a heartbreaking loss and win six straight? The more realistic scenario may be the Gator Bowl.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
The USC game on Saturday was more than a rivalry game. It was more than a measuring stick for how far the Irish had come. It was the gateway to the postseason. And now that door is closing. One more loss and it will be slamming shut.
The Irish went into this season with questions upon questions and heading into Saturday's game, not many had been answered. The Irish drubbed Nevada, but its next four games all came down to the last minute or overtime. They were 11 seconds from being 5-0 and about at the same token, they were about one minute from being 1-4.
Notre Dame took to their home field and defended it honorably against the Trojans. They could have folded and called it a day when they fell behind, 34-14, but they didn't give up, cutting a 20-point deficit to seven and within four yards of sending the game to overtime.
But near wins count for nothing and the loss just adds to the questions surrounding Notre Dame.
Just how good is this team?
By most accounts, it seems pretty clear that pollsters see Notre Dame as a good team, but not great. The AP poll ranks the Irish 26th. The Harris Poll has them at 28th, while the USA Today rankings put them 30th. The computers don't seem to be quite sure what to think of the Irish, as different formulas rank them anywhere from 17th to 31st. Combine the Harris and USA Today polls with the computers and BCS rankings have Notre Dame at 31st.
Bottom line, if the Irish want to even have a shot at the BCS, they need to win out. And with the remaining schedule, it's easier said than done.
Boston College, who has won six straight against the Irish and four of the last five games in South Bend. The Eagles have done well victimizing weak defenses, especially against the run, and Notre Dame qualifies. The difference between this matchup an the Eagles' previous wins is their opponents have not exactly had powerhouse offenses. Notre Dame does.
Washington State is the only real cupcake on this season's schedule for the Irish and doesn't figure to be a huge challenge.
But that is followed by the toughest matchup remaining on paper and what could be the Irish's biggest bargaining chip. Pitt is currently ranked 20th in the BCS rankings with two winnable games against South Florida and Syracuse coming up that could improve its stock. If the Irish comes in at 6-2 and beats the Panthers, they could put themselves into a decent position heading into the final two games of the season. But again, a strong running attack could pose some serious problems for Notre Dame.
Connecticut suffered a major tragedy for its program with Jasper Howard getting stabbed to death on campus on Saturday, just hours after getting the game ball. How the team carries on the rest of the season remains to be seen, but from what the coach has shown so far in terms of being a rock for his players, the Huskies should be just fine in terms of on-field play, but are beatable.
Stanford is another game that the Irish could easily cough up, but also looks beatable.
Lose another game and they are done. Win out and it could get interesting. The BCS championship chances are long gone, not that they were really ever there to begin with, but heading into the USC game, there was still a sense of confidence that the BCS was within reach. But can the Irish really come off a heartbreaking loss and win six straight? The more realistic scenario may be the Gator Bowl.
Saints have been really impressive, but don't crown them yet
By Chad Garner
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
The New Orleans Saints appear to be one of the elite teams in the NFL -- at least right now.
Everyone has known about the Saints' high-powered offense for years with Drew Brees at the helm, but now they have a good defense -- yes, I said good -- with new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams calling the shots. This attacking and ball-hawking defense is especially good when they can pin their ears back and rush the passer since the Saints offense has been building big leads.
That's a great recipe for success, too.
If you were still questioning how good the Saints really were, bet you're believing now since they kicked the heck out of the New York Giants, 48-27, and it wasn't even that close.
The Giants were torched by Brees (369 yards, 4 TDs) and the defense limited Eli Manning to only 14-of-31 passing for 178 yards with one TD and one INT. Plus that vaunted Giants running game was kept in check. Brandon Jacobs had 33 yards and Ahmad Bradshaw had 48.
So that should show you right there that the Saints are legit contenders in the NFC.
Don't go crowning them yet, but they are a complete team on offense (Brees, running backs Pierre Thomas, Mike Bell, Reggie Bush, and WRs Marquis Colston, Lance Moore and Robert Meachem, and TE Jeremy Shockey, etc.), defense (Darren Sharper, Roman Harper, Tracy Porter, Jonathan Vilma and Jabari Greer) and special teams (kicker John Carney, punter Thomas Morstead, punt returner Reggie Bush and kick returner Courtney Roby).
Head coach Sean Payton has a very good team, but it's way too early to say they're destine for the Super Bowl.
But if they stay healthy, who knows what this team can do? No doubt they're talented enough to make the playoffs and unlike years past, the defense is holding up their end of the bargain and is no longer a crutch.
In any case, the Saints have been impressive and extremely fun to watch.
What we learned this week in college football: Week 7
By Chris Maza
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
A nice week in college football, featuring some close games pulled out by favorites, along with a few upsets, adding intrigue to the release of the first BCS rankings of the season. But with all the excitement, there's one thing we re-learned this weekend:
Football is just a game
We're reminded that in the great scheme of things football doesn't mean all that much after UConn's Jasper Howard was stabbed to death outside an on-campus dance Saturday night. The stabbing, which came hours after Howard had helped lead the Huskies to a win with 11 tackles and a big forced fumble and recovery, happened after someone pulled a fire alarm. An altercation occurred outside between two groups of people and Howard and another student were stabbed. If this story wasn't sad enough, Howard was going to be a father.
The BCS is still a lightning rod for controversy
It's incredibly clear that Alabama is the best team in college football at this point. Clear to everything except the BCS. Florida hangs at No. 1, followed by Bama, Texas and Boise State. The real problem with the BCS is it doesn't take into serious account the level of competition teams are playing. If that were the case, the 7-0 Crimson Tide, who has knocked off three ranked teams would be a clear-cut number one and Boise State would be nowhere near the top 5. Florida has played one ranked team and the rest of their FBS schedule had a combined 13-11 record. They also beat up on a 2-4 Charleston Southern team.
The Heisman is looking more like Tebow
Colt McCoy could have really boosted his stock with a big game against Oklahoma, but failed to do so. Jimmy Clausen had a more than respectable game, passing for more yards than any other quarterback has against USC and scoring the first two passing touchdowns against them all season, but he needed to complete one of his three passes on the four-yard line at the end of the game. Tim Tebow was Tim Tebow, completing 64 percent of his passes for 255 yards and a touchdown, while also leading the Gators in rushing yards. Alabama's Mark Ingram is the only non-quarterback gaining real consideration at this point and the last time someone besides a quarterback was Reggie Bush, who had over 2,100 total yards and 18 touchdowns in 2o05. Ingram is on pace for just under 1,900 total yards and 19 scores.
Matt Barkley is the real deal
Sure, Notre Dame's defense isn't the strongest by a long shot, but Matt Barkley showed the poise of an upperclassmen in one of the toughest places to be a visiting team in college football. When he had protection, he stood back there, read the coverage and fired the ball all over the field. When the Irish finally got pressure on him, he hit his outlets, who turned the short passes into big gains. All told, Barkley had 380 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.
Purdue is a team that gets up for the big game
The Boildermakers may have a putrid 2-5 record, but they have played three of the better programs in college football hard this season. It started against Oregon, where they lost a 38-36, scoring a touchdown with just over a minute remaining, but failed to convert the two-point conversion. Later, they gave up a last-minute touchdown to Notre Dame in a 24-21 loss. But they finally came through with a win in a big game, embarrassing Ohio State, 26-18.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
A nice week in college football, featuring some close games pulled out by favorites, along with a few upsets, adding intrigue to the release of the first BCS rankings of the season. But with all the excitement, there's one thing we re-learned this weekend:
Football is just a game
We're reminded that in the great scheme of things football doesn't mean all that much after UConn's Jasper Howard was stabbed to death outside an on-campus dance Saturday night. The stabbing, which came hours after Howard had helped lead the Huskies to a win with 11 tackles and a big forced fumble and recovery, happened after someone pulled a fire alarm. An altercation occurred outside between two groups of people and Howard and another student were stabbed. If this story wasn't sad enough, Howard was going to be a father.
The BCS is still a lightning rod for controversy
It's incredibly clear that Alabama is the best team in college football at this point. Clear to everything except the BCS. Florida hangs at No. 1, followed by Bama, Texas and Boise State. The real problem with the BCS is it doesn't take into serious account the level of competition teams are playing. If that were the case, the 7-0 Crimson Tide, who has knocked off three ranked teams would be a clear-cut number one and Boise State would be nowhere near the top 5. Florida has played one ranked team and the rest of their FBS schedule had a combined 13-11 record. They also beat up on a 2-4 Charleston Southern team.
The Heisman is looking more like Tebow
Colt McCoy could have really boosted his stock with a big game against Oklahoma, but failed to do so. Jimmy Clausen had a more than respectable game, passing for more yards than any other quarterback has against USC and scoring the first two passing touchdowns against them all season, but he needed to complete one of his three passes on the four-yard line at the end of the game. Tim Tebow was Tim Tebow, completing 64 percent of his passes for 255 yards and a touchdown, while also leading the Gators in rushing yards. Alabama's Mark Ingram is the only non-quarterback gaining real consideration at this point and the last time someone besides a quarterback was Reggie Bush, who had over 2,100 total yards and 18 touchdowns in 2o05. Ingram is on pace for just under 1,900 total yards and 19 scores.
Matt Barkley is the real deal
Sure, Notre Dame's defense isn't the strongest by a long shot, but Matt Barkley showed the poise of an upperclassmen in one of the toughest places to be a visiting team in college football. When he had protection, he stood back there, read the coverage and fired the ball all over the field. When the Irish finally got pressure on him, he hit his outlets, who turned the short passes into big gains. All told, Barkley had 380 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.
Purdue is a team that gets up for the big game
The Boildermakers may have a putrid 2-5 record, but they have played three of the better programs in college football hard this season. It started against Oregon, where they lost a 38-36, scoring a touchdown with just over a minute remaining, but failed to convert the two-point conversion. Later, they gave up a last-minute touchdown to Notre Dame in a 24-21 loss. But they finally came through with a win in a big game, embarrassing Ohio State, 26-18.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Week 6 Recap: Brady Delivers
By Dan Shouse Fanatic Sports Staff
Another week is in the books for the NFL, and there are no doubt many happy New England Patriots fans.
Patriots 59 (4-2) Titans (0-6)
It looked and felt like Christmas with all the snow at Gillette Stadium, but it was Tom Brady and company that delivered a 59 point gift in a total destruction of the Tennessee Titans. Brady threw for 6TDs, five in the second quarter alone, in leading the Pats to the win. Randy Moss found the end zone three times, and even Laurence Maroney contributed. The Pats could have put up 70 points if they wanted.
Texans 28 (3-3) Bengals 17 (4-2)
Matt Schaub threw for just under 400 yards and added 4TD passes in an impressive win at Cincinnati. Luck finally ran out for the Bengals who had picked up 3 straight wins, all in the final seconds, heading into Sunday's game against Houston.
Packers 26 (3-2) Lions 0 (1-5)
Aaron Rodgers passed for over 350 yards and a pair of scores in an easy win at home against Detroit. The Pack left a lot of points on the board, as Mason Crosby kicked 4 field goals in the win. The Lions had next to nothing on offense, having under 150 total yard for the entire game.
Vikings 33 (6-0) Ravens 31 (3-3)
Luck was on Bret Favre's and the Vikings side against the Ravens, as Baltimore kicker Steven Hauschka missed a 44 yard field goal on the final play to keep the Vikings perfect on the year. The Ravens, who started the year at 3-0, are now struggling, having lost 3 straight.
Saints 49 (5-0) Giants 27 (5-1)
It is official - the New Orleans Saints are for real. Behind 369 yards and 4 TDs from Drew Brees, the Saints put on a show with a win at home against the Giants. This figured to be the biggest challenge of the season for the Saints, as the Giants had one of the leagues toughest defenses. Instead the Saints made the Giants defense look ordinary, posting almost 500 yards of total offense. The Saints have not even been challenge this season, winning by an average of 14 points each week.
Steelers 27 (4-2) Browns 14 (1-5)
Both teams played a sloppy game, combining for 8 turnovers, but in the end the Steelers made enough plays to get the win. Ben Roethlisberger had over 400 yards and 2TDs in the win. Derek Anderson struggled once again, completing only 9 of 24 passes for 122 yards. How long until Brady Quinn is starting again?
Panthers 28 (2-3) Buccaneers 21 (0-7)
DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart combined for over 250 yards rushing and two scores to lead Carolina to its second straight win. The Panthers were able to win despite a dismal showing be Jake Delhomme, who threw for only 65 yards and also threw pair of picks.
Chiefs 14 (1-5) Redskins 6 (2-4)
Once again a winless team picked up its first win against the Redskins. Neither Jason Campbell or Todd Collins could get the offensively challenge Redskins into the end zone. I wonder what Jim Zorn will be doing next weekend? It is time for his pink slip. The season is already over, might as well make the move now.
Jaguars 23 (3-3) Rams 20 (0-6)
Despite dominating in the stat book, the Jacksonville Jaguars need overtime to get past the Rams. Maurice Jones-Drew went over 100 yards and found the end zone 3 times, and David Garrard threw for over 300 yards, but three turnovers helped keep the Rams in the game before a 36 yard Josh Scobee kick won it in overtime for the Jags.
Cardinal 27 (3-2) Seahawks 3 (2-4)
The Cardinals jumped out to a 14-0 lead early in the 1st quarter and never looked back, getting an easy road win against Seattle. One week after putting up 41 points against Jacksonville, the Seahawks managed only 3 points and 128 total yards against the Cardinals.
Raiders 13 (2-4) Eagles 9 (3-2)
I can't believe I am writing this, but the Raiders looked good, at least on defense, in a home win against a stunned Eagles team. JeMarcus Russel hit Zach Miller with an 86 yard TD, and then the Raider defense took over from there, shutting down an Eagle offense that had scored over 30 points each of the last two weeks.
Bills 16 (2-4) Jets 13 (3-3)
Maybe it's time Mark Sanchez drops the nickname "Sanchize." Sanchez's 5 ints helped keep Buffalo in the game, and then Rian Lindell kicked a 47 yard field goal to win it in overtime, as the Bills shocked the Jets at Giants Stadium. The Jets are now finally starting to play like the Jets of old, having dropped three straight.
Falcons 21 (4-1) Bears 14 (3-2)
It took a last second defensive stand, but the Atlanta Falcons were able to keep a late Bears drive from getting into the end zone, preserving the win at the Georgia Dome. The offense also contributed, as Matt Ryan hit Tony Gonzalez for a 10 yard touchdown with only 4 seconds left in the 2nd quarter, giving the Falcons a 14-7 lead at halftime. Despite being held in check, Michael Turner added the winning score on a five yard run with just over 3 minutes left in the game.
Another week is in the books for the NFL, and there are no doubt many happy New England Patriots fans.
Patriots 59 (4-2) Titans (0-6)
It looked and felt like Christmas with all the snow at Gillette Stadium, but it was Tom Brady and company that delivered a 59 point gift in a total destruction of the Tennessee Titans. Brady threw for 6TDs, five in the second quarter alone, in leading the Pats to the win. Randy Moss found the end zone three times, and even Laurence Maroney contributed. The Pats could have put up 70 points if they wanted.
Texans 28 (3-3) Bengals 17 (4-2)
Matt Schaub threw for just under 400 yards and added 4TD passes in an impressive win at Cincinnati. Luck finally ran out for the Bengals who had picked up 3 straight wins, all in the final seconds, heading into Sunday's game against Houston.
Packers 26 (3-2) Lions 0 (1-5)
Aaron Rodgers passed for over 350 yards and a pair of scores in an easy win at home against Detroit. The Pack left a lot of points on the board, as Mason Crosby kicked 4 field goals in the win. The Lions had next to nothing on offense, having under 150 total yard for the entire game.
Vikings 33 (6-0) Ravens 31 (3-3)
Luck was on Bret Favre's and the Vikings side against the Ravens, as Baltimore kicker Steven Hauschka missed a 44 yard field goal on the final play to keep the Vikings perfect on the year. The Ravens, who started the year at 3-0, are now struggling, having lost 3 straight.
Saints 49 (5-0) Giants 27 (5-1)
It is official - the New Orleans Saints are for real. Behind 369 yards and 4 TDs from Drew Brees, the Saints put on a show with a win at home against the Giants. This figured to be the biggest challenge of the season for the Saints, as the Giants had one of the leagues toughest defenses. Instead the Saints made the Giants defense look ordinary, posting almost 500 yards of total offense. The Saints have not even been challenge this season, winning by an average of 14 points each week.
Steelers 27 (4-2) Browns 14 (1-5)
Both teams played a sloppy game, combining for 8 turnovers, but in the end the Steelers made enough plays to get the win. Ben Roethlisberger had over 400 yards and 2TDs in the win. Derek Anderson struggled once again, completing only 9 of 24 passes for 122 yards. How long until Brady Quinn is starting again?
Panthers 28 (2-3) Buccaneers 21 (0-7)
DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart combined for over 250 yards rushing and two scores to lead Carolina to its second straight win. The Panthers were able to win despite a dismal showing be Jake Delhomme, who threw for only 65 yards and also threw pair of picks.
Chiefs 14 (1-5) Redskins 6 (2-4)
Once again a winless team picked up its first win against the Redskins. Neither Jason Campbell or Todd Collins could get the offensively challenge Redskins into the end zone. I wonder what Jim Zorn will be doing next weekend? It is time for his pink slip. The season is already over, might as well make the move now.
Jaguars 23 (3-3) Rams 20 (0-6)
Despite dominating in the stat book, the Jacksonville Jaguars need overtime to get past the Rams. Maurice Jones-Drew went over 100 yards and found the end zone 3 times, and David Garrard threw for over 300 yards, but three turnovers helped keep the Rams in the game before a 36 yard Josh Scobee kick won it in overtime for the Jags.
Cardinal 27 (3-2) Seahawks 3 (2-4)
The Cardinals jumped out to a 14-0 lead early in the 1st quarter and never looked back, getting an easy road win against Seattle. One week after putting up 41 points against Jacksonville, the Seahawks managed only 3 points and 128 total yards against the Cardinals.
Raiders 13 (2-4) Eagles 9 (3-2)
I can't believe I am writing this, but the Raiders looked good, at least on defense, in a home win against a stunned Eagles team. JeMarcus Russel hit Zach Miller with an 86 yard TD, and then the Raider defense took over from there, shutting down an Eagle offense that had scored over 30 points each of the last two weeks.
Bills 16 (2-4) Jets 13 (3-3)
Maybe it's time Mark Sanchez drops the nickname "Sanchize." Sanchez's 5 ints helped keep Buffalo in the game, and then Rian Lindell kicked a 47 yard field goal to win it in overtime, as the Bills shocked the Jets at Giants Stadium. The Jets are now finally starting to play like the Jets of old, having dropped three straight.
Falcons 21 (4-1) Bears 14 (3-2)
It took a last second defensive stand, but the Atlanta Falcons were able to keep a late Bears drive from getting into the end zone, preserving the win at the Georgia Dome. The offense also contributed, as Matt Ryan hit Tony Gonzalez for a 10 yard touchdown with only 4 seconds left in the 2nd quarter, giving the Falcons a 14-7 lead at halftime. Despite being held in check, Michael Turner added the winning score on a five yard run with just over 3 minutes left in the game.
Monday Night Football: Can Denver Continue to Surprise?
By Dan Shouse
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Prior to the start of the 2009 NFL season, most experts had the San Diego Chargers cruising to the division title in a relatively week AFC West. Many of the same experts thought that five weeks into the season, the Denver Broncos would be fighting to stay alive in the race for a spot in the post season.
Indeed that is the case in this weeks match up on Monday night, but the roles have been reversed. Instead it is the Broncos, the undefeated Broncos I might add, who appear to be ready to run away with the division, and the Chargers (2-2) who are fighting to keep their season alive.
Even more surprising than the fact that the Broncos are atop the AFC West, is how they are doing it. Rookie coach Josh McDaniels came to Denver with the reputation of being an offensive guru, but it has been the Broncos defense that has lead the way to a perfect start. No team has scored more than 17 points against the Denver defense this season. After struggling for most of the 2008 season, the Denver defense is now one of the the league's best.
The offense has been solid as well. Aside from Brandon Marshall, the offense does not really have a superstar, but that has not stopped this unit from contributing to the 5-0 start. Kyle Orton has surprised, throwing for over 1200 yards and 7TDs against only one pick so far this season. Plus the one pick Orton has thrown was to Randy Moss on a last second heave just before half time against the Patriots. Take that away, and Orton has not made a mistake yet this season.
A lot of credit mush also go to McDaniels. With the Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall soap operas during the off season, the first year coach appeared to be on the verge of losing his team before the season even started. Winning cures all however, and McDaniels has his players faith again, thanks to the perfect start.
Skeptics (including myself earlier this season) point to Denver's soft schedule as the key to their success, but last week's win against the Pats showed that the Broncos can compete all season. The schedule gets tougher from here, as after San Diego, the Broncos face off against Baltimore and Pittsburgh, two powers in the AFC. The Broncos will certainly now have more chances to prove that they are for real.
San Diego, on the other hand, has been a surprise for the wrong reason. Expected to be a contender in the AFC, the Chargers have struggled in the early part of the season, especially on defense. The Chargers have problems stopping the run, as opponents have averaged 151 yards on the ground against them . While Philip Rivers and Vincent Jackson have formed a potent combination, they have had little help from the running game behind LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles. Plus when you are always playing from behind, thanks to a suspect defense, it is that much tougher to get a running game going.
To make matters worse for the Chargers, upper management expressed their frustration through the media, saying that the Chargers slow start was unacceptable. Things may be starting to get desperate in San Diego.
After praising Denver, and ripping San Diego, the likely thought is that I would be picking the Broncos in a rout, but there is one image that bugs me about Denver. After last week game against the Patriots, McDaniels and company were celebrating like they had just won the Super Bowl. Are the Broncos poised for a let down after last weeks big win? Are they beginning to get a little overconfident? Are they maybe losing their focus a bit? Plus add in a San Diego team that is desperate for a win, angry after management ripped them publicly, and coming off a bye week, the Broncos now look primed to be upset.
Prediction: Chargers 23 Broncos 20
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Prior to the start of the 2009 NFL season, most experts had the San Diego Chargers cruising to the division title in a relatively week AFC West. Many of the same experts thought that five weeks into the season, the Denver Broncos would be fighting to stay alive in the race for a spot in the post season.
Indeed that is the case in this weeks match up on Monday night, but the roles have been reversed. Instead it is the Broncos, the undefeated Broncos I might add, who appear to be ready to run away with the division, and the Chargers (2-2) who are fighting to keep their season alive.
Even more surprising than the fact that the Broncos are atop the AFC West, is how they are doing it. Rookie coach Josh McDaniels came to Denver with the reputation of being an offensive guru, but it has been the Broncos defense that has lead the way to a perfect start. No team has scored more than 17 points against the Denver defense this season. After struggling for most of the 2008 season, the Denver defense is now one of the the league's best.
The offense has been solid as well. Aside from Brandon Marshall, the offense does not really have a superstar, but that has not stopped this unit from contributing to the 5-0 start. Kyle Orton has surprised, throwing for over 1200 yards and 7TDs against only one pick so far this season. Plus the one pick Orton has thrown was to Randy Moss on a last second heave just before half time against the Patriots. Take that away, and Orton has not made a mistake yet this season.
A lot of credit mush also go to McDaniels. With the Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall soap operas during the off season, the first year coach appeared to be on the verge of losing his team before the season even started. Winning cures all however, and McDaniels has his players faith again, thanks to the perfect start.
Skeptics (including myself earlier this season) point to Denver's soft schedule as the key to their success, but last week's win against the Pats showed that the Broncos can compete all season. The schedule gets tougher from here, as after San Diego, the Broncos face off against Baltimore and Pittsburgh, two powers in the AFC. The Broncos will certainly now have more chances to prove that they are for real.
San Diego, on the other hand, has been a surprise for the wrong reason. Expected to be a contender in the AFC, the Chargers have struggled in the early part of the season, especially on defense. The Chargers have problems stopping the run, as opponents have averaged 151 yards on the ground against them . While Philip Rivers and Vincent Jackson have formed a potent combination, they have had little help from the running game behind LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles. Plus when you are always playing from behind, thanks to a suspect defense, it is that much tougher to get a running game going.
To make matters worse for the Chargers, upper management expressed their frustration through the media, saying that the Chargers slow start was unacceptable. Things may be starting to get desperate in San Diego.
After praising Denver, and ripping San Diego, the likely thought is that I would be picking the Broncos in a rout, but there is one image that bugs me about Denver. After last week game against the Patriots, McDaniels and company were celebrating like they had just won the Super Bowl. Are the Broncos poised for a let down after last weeks big win? Are they beginning to get a little overconfident? Are they maybe losing their focus a bit? Plus add in a San Diego team that is desperate for a win, angry after management ripped them publicly, and coming off a bye week, the Broncos now look primed to be upset.
Prediction: Chargers 23 Broncos 20
Week 6 Picks: Patriots Bounce Back
By Dan Shouse
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Much like the Patriots last week, I turned in another mediocre performance, going 9-5 with my picks for the second straight week. Much like the Patriots, plan on a big turnaround this week. Here are this weeks picks.
Patriots 31 Titans 13
The Titans are just what the Patriots need, a team that cannot defend the pass. Peyton Manning picked the Titans apart last week, and Brady will do the same this week. It's a safe bet that Randy Moss will get more than one catch.
Texans 27 Bengals 14
It's time for the Bengals to come back down to Earth. I know that Cincy did a great job shutting down Joe Flacco and the Ravens last week, but Baltimore does not have the weapons that Houston does. Talent wins out, and Houston has too much. It is time for Houston to start living up to its potential.
Packers 28 Lions 10
There is just too much going against the Lions in this one. The Pack is coming off a bye, plus the game is in Green Bay. Factor in injuries to Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson, both are listed as questionable, and all signs point to an easy Packers win.
Vikings 21 Ravens 17
A few weeks back prior to the game against the Patriots, I said I was not sold on the Ravens. The last 2 weeks, which included losses to the Pats and Bengals, have certainly not made me feel any better about Baltimore. Now the Ravens head to Minnesota to take on Brett Favre and a surging Vikings team. Last week Cedric Benson ran all over the Ravens. Adrian Peterson should be able to do the same this week.
Saints 31 Giants 28
In the best match up of the week, the Saints will prove they are for real. Pierre Thomas has come back from injury and showed that he is an elite running back, plus Drew Brees is due for a big game. Eli Manning will taste defeat for the first time this season.
Steelers 35 Browns 0
Maybe Brady Quinn should take his home in Cleveland off the market, as he should be starting again soon. Derek Anderson had one of the worst games in NFL history last week, going 2 for 17 passing. Don't ask me how the Browns were able to win, but there will be no such mystery this week. A bad Browns offense against a solid Steelers defense? This one is a no-brainer.
Panthers 21 Buccaneers 13
The win streak continues for the Panthers. After picking up the win a week ago against the Redskins, the Panthers will make it two in a row this week in Tampa. The Bucs have been giving up some big plays this season. Look for Jake Delhomme to find Steve Smith for a pair of scores.
Chiefs 9 Redskins 3
The Lions and Panthers both picked up their first wins of the season against Washington. Now it is the Chiefs turn. I will give the Redskins some credit however. Carlos Rogers called out Dan Snyder this week for not being able to put a winning team on the field. It is about time the players revolt.
Jaguars 21 Rams 3
The Rams might not win a game this season, joining last years Lions as the only 0-16 teams in history. Marc Bulger is back, but it does not matter. Could Rush Limbaugh really do any worse if he owned the team?
Cardinals 35 Seahawks 24
Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald, and Anquan Boldin will be too much for the Seahawks. The Cardinals have been a disappointment on offense so far this year. They won't be this week.
Eagles 44 Raiders 7
Donovan McNabb looked great against the Bucs last Sunday, and will be even better against the Raiders this week. Micheal Vick will see a lot of action this week, as McNabb and most of the Eagles starters will be able to take the 2nd half off and watch from the sidelines. The Raiders have so many issues on and off the field, that it is hard to imagine them being competitive the rest of this season.
Jets 28 Bills 6
Rex Ryan was not happy with his defense after Monday's loss at the hands of the Miami Dolphins. Expect Ryan and the Jets defense to take out its frustrations on the Bills. Is this TO's last game in Buffalo?
Falcons 24 Bears 21
Matt Ryan gets the best of Jay Cutler in the Sunday night game. The Falcons simply have better talent on offense, and will build off of last weeks impressive showing in San Francisco.
Chargers 23 Broncos 20
The Chargers need this win to stay within shouting distance of the Broncos in the AFC West. San Diego's owner called out Norv Turner and his players during the bye week. The Chargers will respond by handing Josh McDaniels his first loss as head coach. Plus, I would like to see McDaniels humbled a bit after pumping his fist and acting like he just won the Superbowl after beating the Patriots last Sunday.
Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Much like the Patriots last week, I turned in another mediocre performance, going 9-5 with my picks for the second straight week. Much like the Patriots, plan on a big turnaround this week. Here are this weeks picks.
Patriots 31 Titans 13
The Titans are just what the Patriots need, a team that cannot defend the pass. Peyton Manning picked the Titans apart last week, and Brady will do the same this week. It's a safe bet that Randy Moss will get more than one catch.
Texans 27 Bengals 14
It's time for the Bengals to come back down to Earth. I know that Cincy did a great job shutting down Joe Flacco and the Ravens last week, but Baltimore does not have the weapons that Houston does. Talent wins out, and Houston has too much. It is time for Houston to start living up to its potential.
Packers 28 Lions 10
There is just too much going against the Lions in this one. The Pack is coming off a bye, plus the game is in Green Bay. Factor in injuries to Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson, both are listed as questionable, and all signs point to an easy Packers win.
Vikings 21 Ravens 17
A few weeks back prior to the game against the Patriots, I said I was not sold on the Ravens. The last 2 weeks, which included losses to the Pats and Bengals, have certainly not made me feel any better about Baltimore. Now the Ravens head to Minnesota to take on Brett Favre and a surging Vikings team. Last week Cedric Benson ran all over the Ravens. Adrian Peterson should be able to do the same this week.
Saints 31 Giants 28
In the best match up of the week, the Saints will prove they are for real. Pierre Thomas has come back from injury and showed that he is an elite running back, plus Drew Brees is due for a big game. Eli Manning will taste defeat for the first time this season.
Steelers 35 Browns 0
Maybe Brady Quinn should take his home in Cleveland off the market, as he should be starting again soon. Derek Anderson had one of the worst games in NFL history last week, going 2 for 17 passing. Don't ask me how the Browns were able to win, but there will be no such mystery this week. A bad Browns offense against a solid Steelers defense? This one is a no-brainer.
Panthers 21 Buccaneers 13
The win streak continues for the Panthers. After picking up the win a week ago against the Redskins, the Panthers will make it two in a row this week in Tampa. The Bucs have been giving up some big plays this season. Look for Jake Delhomme to find Steve Smith for a pair of scores.
Chiefs 9 Redskins 3
The Lions and Panthers both picked up their first wins of the season against Washington. Now it is the Chiefs turn. I will give the Redskins some credit however. Carlos Rogers called out Dan Snyder this week for not being able to put a winning team on the field. It is about time the players revolt.
Jaguars 21 Rams 3
The Rams might not win a game this season, joining last years Lions as the only 0-16 teams in history. Marc Bulger is back, but it does not matter. Could Rush Limbaugh really do any worse if he owned the team?
Cardinals 35 Seahawks 24
Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald, and Anquan Boldin will be too much for the Seahawks. The Cardinals have been a disappointment on offense so far this year. They won't be this week.
Eagles 44 Raiders 7
Donovan McNabb looked great against the Bucs last Sunday, and will be even better against the Raiders this week. Micheal Vick will see a lot of action this week, as McNabb and most of the Eagles starters will be able to take the 2nd half off and watch from the sidelines. The Raiders have so many issues on and off the field, that it is hard to imagine them being competitive the rest of this season.
Jets 28 Bills 6
Rex Ryan was not happy with his defense after Monday's loss at the hands of the Miami Dolphins. Expect Ryan and the Jets defense to take out its frustrations on the Bills. Is this TO's last game in Buffalo?
Falcons 24 Bears 21
Matt Ryan gets the best of Jay Cutler in the Sunday night game. The Falcons simply have better talent on offense, and will build off of last weeks impressive showing in San Francisco.
Chargers 23 Broncos 20
The Chargers need this win to stay within shouting distance of the Broncos in the AFC West. San Diego's owner called out Norv Turner and his players during the bye week. The Chargers will respond by handing Josh McDaniels his first loss as head coach. Plus, I would like to see McDaniels humbled a bit after pumping his fist and acting like he just won the Superbowl after beating the Patriots last Sunday.
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