What an experience Sunday was. First the drive. It was snowing in Wisconsin and with little in the way of street lights even on the freeways up here, there were times one couldn't see the road. Slow goings to say the least. In the time it normally takes to make it from where I live near the Dells to the exit for the Elgin casino, I had only made it to the state line.
Fortunately, once getting to the Illinois line, the precipitation had turned to mostly rain. Despite temps near freezing, the roads were well salted and the pace picked up dramatically.
About an hour before I arrived at the parking garage near O'Hare, I received a call from a fellow chicagosports.com message board member, BearsLbBack, who had arrived in Chicago Saturday night from Connecticutt. We were hoping to meet up somewhere before or during the game. Our seats were both on the West side so meeting seemed probable.
Finally arriving at the Cumberalnd "L" station, my son and I put all our warmer clothes on and made our way up to the "L" platform. As we boarded the train, I reached for my phone only to realize I had left it on the car charger. Oh well, so much now for catching up with BLB.
My son is a little superstitious... when we made our way toward the Planetarium parking lot, he made sure we travel the same path we normally take. Found some humor in that.
Finally arrived at the tailgate spot where friends have been made completely from message boards, we enjoyed some traditional tailgate treats like bratwurst, but one of the tailgaters always brings foods that are native to the road team.
Thus we enjoyed some cajun jumbalaya which was extremely good!!
Adam and I began the walk to the stadium shortly after noon. It wasn't very crowded at that point, but the gate at the South end zone was flooded with people entering by the time we got there.
We found the WBBM booth (the local AM station that broadcasts Bears Football) and listened to some of the pre-game broadcast before veturing out to the South end zone seats to watch pre-game warmups. Rex and the receivers were working near that goal line and passes seemed to be flying well. The field was very damp.
We positioned ourselves directly behind the South goal posts to watch the kickers. Despite the winds coming mainly from the East, there was no doubt the range for either kicker was not going to be much more than 42-43 yards. That proved prophetic when Cundiff lined up for a 47 yard attempt in the third quarter and landed... about 4 yards short!!!
As warmups continued, Saints fans were walking around almost parade like, fitting for fans from a city that needs no excuse to have a parade. There was one fan dressed in black, complete with mask and cape calling himself "Datman." There were a few people talking smack to our visitors from the deep south, but for the most past, most Bears Fans walked by and simply said good luck.
As game time grew closer, the electricity in the air was palpable. When the players headed to the locker rooms, Adam and I made the trek to section 430 Row 17 Seats 19-20!!
Not having an ice scraper with me, I thought of the next best thing.... I pulled out a credit card from my wallet and used it to clean the ice off our seats. Yes, it was a Bears Credit card. The edge of the card is roughed up from its use as a scraper, but the memories... will always be there whenever I reach for that card.
I didn't know it then, but I could have kept the card in my pocket. People were standing even before the National Anthem and seldom sat the rest of the game.
To a man, everyone around our seats was hoping the Bears would win the coin toss and Hester would give us a great start, but it wasn't to be and New Orleans began the game on offense.
The crowd was amazing. Screaming at every opportunity. I had the great fortune to be at 4 playoff games; The Giants and Rams in 85, and the Eagles, 49ers in 88. Never was a crowd more amped for a game. EVER!!
There was a flachback to last year when Devery caught the 40 yard pass to give New Orleans a first down at our 32, but Tillman had his hands on it and almost came up with the pick. Three plays later Izzy Idonije sacked Brees and forced the punt.
As the game progressed, there were a few concerns about the offense not getting into the end zone. The missed TD when Clark was wide open in the end zone stung. Still it was 9-0 and the defense wasn't allowing a thing.
The crowd was delerious when Jones scored near the end of the first half making it 16-0. The buzz going thru Soldier field was unlike anything I had ever experienced.
Most people will remember the great catch by Berrian for the TD in the 4th quarter, but the catch of the game was by M. Colston. After taking the kick after Jones' score, the Saints faced 3rd and 10 at their own 27. Colston's grab of Brees' underthrown ball could have gone down in the history books, as it was THAT GOOD!!!
16-7 at half time. I am sitting (one of the few times all day) talking with Adam right before the second half kickoff telling him how important answering New Orleans score will be. The first possession starts well with a nice grab by Berrain good for 17 yards. From where we were sitting as the Bears broke the huddle, my sons says Grossman is going deep on the next play. Sure enough, Rex throws deep down the left side, but the play is broken up. Two plays later, the Bears are forced to punt. After a penalty, the Saints have to begin at their own 7 yard line.
The crowd is shocked when they see Bush get behind the defense (thanks to an illegal pick) and races 88 yards. Suddenly the game is within a Saints field goal from a lead change and we are all looking for that Hester spark.
Cundiff and the Saints try to kick the ball away from the Windy City Flyer, but the plan backfires. After the ball is kicked out of bounds, giving Chicago the ball on the 40, fans around me are saying "time to take charge."
Expecting Chicago to try and regain momentum by running the ball, the Saints were ready for Jones and tackle him for a two yard loss. The two scores has given the Saints the shot in the arm they needed and forced yet another three and out. Brad Maynard, punting the ball well all day, gets off another fine one with great hang time, allowing the center to get down field to stop Bush for no gain on the return.
The Saints mount another drive but stalls at the Bears 29, where New Orleans sends in Cundiff for a 47 yard attempt. The kick is almost blocked at the line, but ends up short just as his kicks were short during pre-game.
Hoping the stop would put some life back in to the Bears offense, Chicago gets the ball at the 37 yard line, only to see the Saints defense playing at their most inspired all day forcing another three and out.
Maynard magic.
Brad Maynard booms a kick that appears headed to the pylon and a touchback, but ends up going out of bounds at the five yard line.
Filled with a rekindled energy, the Bears defense forces Brees to throw the ball away while in the end zone. After a pregnant pause the referee, after consulting with another official drops his yellow flag and rightfully rules the play intentional grounding and awarding the Bears a SAFETY!!! Suddenly, the Saints now must score 6 to take the lead and the crowd is right back in the game!!!
After the safety, both teams have the ball but exchage punts. The Bears now have the ball with 16:47 remaining in the game. Previous to this possession, Rex seemingly had been asked to manage the game. There were several plays where a pass was broken up but the ball was placed where it needed to be. Other times Grossman had near misses to Berrain and Davis. This drive was critical for the Bears, and it was starting at their own 15....
1-10 Short pass to Berrian for 13 yards
1-10 Jones carries for 7 yards.
2-3 Grossman to Muhammad for 20 Yards.
1-10 Grossman to Berrian for 12 yards.
1-10 Grossman to Berrian 33 yards TOUCHDOWN
5 PLAYS 85 YARDS. GROSSMAN 4-4 78 YARDS.
Suddenly, what had become a one score, nerve racking game, was now an 11 point lead with 14 minutes to play.
After a sack on second down there was some confusion when it seemed like Ogunleye had recovered a fumble but a Saints player stripped the ball and New Orleans recovered. Lovie challenged the call and the crowd expected a reversal. The stadium jumbotron showed the ball coming clean when Wale sacked Brees.
The referee came back with the right call and the Bears were back in business. After an offside on the Saints, Chicago had first and 5 from the 21. Five plays later, Cedric Benson bowled over anyone in his path and lunged in to the end zone for another TD aNd suddenly what had been a tight two point game had become an 18 point blowout.
The crowd was insane the rest of the game. Nate Vasher intercepted a Brees pass for their 4th turnover of the game and Thomas Jone has a great TD run to make the final 39-14!!
After Rex kneeled to run off the last few seconds of the game, he turns the Bears bench, winds up and throws the ball in to the crowd!!! Time for the celebrating to begin on the field. The fans had been celebrating for 20 minutes already.
What a great ride. Back in 1985, the Bears received the Halas Trophy in their locker room after the game. This time the crowd got to celebrate along with the team as they rushed a stage on to the field. Seeing Brian Urlacher hold the Halas Trophy aloft for all of Chicago to see was absolutely unbelievable.
Special thanks goes to Vic W. I met Vic thru a Bears message board a few years ago and we became friends. He became a season ticket holder the same year he accepted a job that sent him out East. He was there also, but sitting with another season ticket holder, using his extra ticket.
I had the pleasure to be at the NFC Championship game because I was sitting in Vic's seats.
Thanks Vic. You gave me a chance to create all new memories with my son.
The first and worst game of the weekend. Seven scores but no TD's in a game that was played in Baltimore.
Weather no factor, yet the game lacked star quality. The Colts end up hosting the AFC title game, but won't advance if they play like that next week.
Eagles at New Orleans.
Great game. A game filled with ebb and flow. Probably the best game of the weekend and definitely deserving of the prime time slot. Despite being the only team playing on six days rest this week, Philadelphia was game. This games sets up half of what could be a 1 vs 2 matchup.
Seattle at Chicago.
Another great game to watch. Ups and downs and emotions ran high. Seattle, despite being undermanned defensively, played like the defending champions they were. Two key plays in the first half keeps Seattle close. Charles Tillman fans on a sure pick 6 and then a great play by Seattle for a sack and fumble of Rex Grossman leads to a 14 point swing and what should have been a 28-7 blow out turns in to a 21-14 dogfight.
10 straight points by the Seahawks and it is game on. 24-21 Seattle after 3 quarters.
Despite two huge drops by Bears receivers the Bears force overtime: The first by M. Muhammad that falls in to the waiting arms of Seattle's BD Hunter. The second a very catchable ball dropped by B. Berrian that should have been 6 points.
An apparent TD called back: Devin Hester electrifies the crowd with a 64 yard punt return for a touchdown, but a penalty for an illegal block brings the ball all the way back to the Chicago 29 yard line. Cedric Benson accounts for 38 yards of the game tying drive as Robbie Gould kicks 41 yard field goal into a 12 MPH wind.
Almost a costly mistake. With the Bears defense forcing a 4th down at mid-field and the clock winding down, the Bears call a timeout with only 2 seconds remaining on the game clock. WIth virtually no risk, Seattle attempts a Hail Mary, but to no avail.
OVERTIME: After winning the coin toss Seattle opens the extra stanza with a wuick first down. Bears stiffen and force a 4th down. Reserve lineman I. Idonije flashes across the punter almost blocking the punt but the result is a poor punt of 18 yards setting up Chicago with decent position to start their first overtime drive.
Two plays gain nothing setting up a third and ten from Chicago's 34, and Rex Grossman, who has been dogged incessantly by the media, throws a perfect pass to Rashied Davis good for 30 yards and a first down in field goal range.
Robbie Gould comes in after three more plays net only four yards and nails a 49 yard kick sending Chicago to their first NFC title game since the 1988 season!
New Engalnd at San Diego.
Now all that has to happen is for the Chargers to coast to the title game against the Colts, right???
Through 27 minutes the Chargers dominate New England. Tom Brady, struggling through the a first half somehow rights the ship and pulls of####reat two minute drive for a Touchdown, pulling the Pats close at half time 14-10.
With a very un-Brady 52.8 QB rating, the Patriot QB pulls out a huge 4th quarter drive highlighted by a needle-threading pass to Caldwell good for 49 yards, setting up the game winning field goal.
So the top two seeds in the AFC fall and it will be the top two seeds facing off for the NFC title in Chicago.
If the conference championships play up to the level of the last three games, Next Sunday is gonna be a great day to watch football....
On a day where favorites fell like over-ripe apples from a tree, ESPN and NBC announcers once again put new teams in their showcase windows.
Al Michaels and John Madden were proclaiming the New Orleans Saints the best team in the NFC before the final curtain came down on their beat-down of "America's Team. Indianapolis almost gave up 400 yard rushing while both Baltimore and San Diego moved up a notch or two in everyone's power rankings.
As much as everyone was waiting for a certain Monday night game a few weeks ago to showcase the year's certain MVP, the one and only Rex Grossman, tonight those same talking heads are treating him like a dead man walking as Rex prepares to take the field tonight in St. Louis.
In a sixteen game world that is the NFL's regular season, the parity driven league has several good teams but no great ones. Last year's Super Bowl Champions were only 7-5 after 12 games and had the daunting task of having to play three playoff games ON THE ROAD. Few expected Pittsburgh in Detroit last year as the month of December began.
There are struggling teams with good talent that can still catch fire the last three weeks of the season: Jacksonville, Cincinnati, Carolina, Seattle, New York Giants to name a few. Any of these teams could end up in Miami. However unlikey that may seem, it has happened more often than not in the NFL over the last decade. That is what makes New England's run of three championships in four years so impressive. People forget that during their "dynasty" they failed to make the playoffs in the year following their first title.
The team that calls Chicago home is 10-2, the first team to clinch their division, has a running game that is finally clicking and with a win tonight, will be the first team to clinch a first round bye in the entire NFL.
Regardless of whether Chicago is the best team in the NFL, or even the NFC after 13 regular season games is truly meaningless. Tonight's game has more riding on it than perhaps any other game in Chicago's franchise since the barnstorming days. This team my either start a train ride thru the playoffs headed to Miami, or their franchise QB may end up sitting at the end of the bench.
There have been big games over the years, but I can't recall a bigger game for one individual wearing a Bears jersey.
We may never see an undefeated season from an NFL team in our life times, but that doesn't mean anything. The only thing that matters is to be undefeated in the post-season. The last time I looked, there HAS been one of those every year since the NFL instituted a league playoff system.
Chicago. Indianapolis. San Dieago. Dallas.
Teams that have all graced the top of someone's "power ranking" system at one time or another. Those same teams that may not even still be in contention when Conference Championships are played in January. Then again any of these teams could be parading the Lombardi Trophy.
There have been times in 2006 where several teams looked "Super" yet each team has stummbled at least once. So week in and week out, expect a new team earn those top power rankings. Thankfully the NFL isn't the B.C.S.
There have been many teams that made it to the Super Bowl that were a surprise, including Pittsburgh just last year; Over the last ten years alone there have been so many. Not one NFC team has made a repeat appearance in the Super Bowl since the GREEN BAY PACKERS in 1996 and 1997.
The focus of this board is and will always be the Chicago Bears and their endeavors to make the playoffs and ultimately win the BIG ONE...
Rex Grossman has come to a crossroads in his career. Tonight we can witness the making of a franchise quarterback or not, but one thing is certain.
It will be a game he remembers the rest of his life.
Last week was without doubt a great weekend of NFL football!! Hard fought games in Minnesota, Pittsburgh and Indianapolis were pleasures to watch. The games may not have been artistic. but they did make for great viewing.
Last week 9-5, but a miserable 1-5 ATS (with one push). Like the headline says, glad I am not a betting man. This blog is (after all) strictly for entertainment purposes.
WEEK FOUR.
Bye week: Denver (who has been on a roll), New York Giants, Pittsburgh and Tampa Bay (who all need the break)...
Colts 3-0 (-9) at Jets The Colts are winning but giving up a lot of yards. The Jets almost came back against the Pats and pulled an upset in Buffalo. Look for the Home team to cover, but Indy to win the game, based on the fact the road team is 2-6-2 ATS in this series.
San Diego 2-0 (-2) at Baltimore 3-0 This is, by far the best match up of the early Sunday games. The Chargers have the best RB in the game and Baltimore is only allowing 1.8 yards per carry. With San Diego's history of playing well on the road ATS (14-3-2) this will be a tough game for the Ravens. Coming off a bye week, giving the nod to the Chargers.
Minnesota 2-1 (+1) at Buffalo 1-2 Coming off two straight home games and 3 straight against playoff teams from '05, Minnesota appears headed in the right direction. Buffalo disappointed last week but does have the home field advantage. Tough game to call with two new head coaches. Minnesota has been the better team early, but I will give the nod to the Bills.
Dallas 1-1 (-9) at Tennessee 0-3 Dallas is coming off a bye week and have two question marks at WR. Terry Glenn will play with stitches in a thumb and while T.O. is expected to play one has to wonder. Tennessee pulls an upset.
San Francisco 1-2 (+7) at Kansas City 0-2 Kansas City won 10 games last year, but their OL has been suspect. With a week to hone the offense, look for the Chiefs to win at home.
New Orleans 3-0 (+7) at Carolina 1-2 It is not often an undefeated team is an underdog by so many points. Many are banking the Panthers are ready to put on a playoff push. Here's thinking the Cinderella story for the Bayou Boys continues for at least another week. New Orleans is on an emotional high. While a loss might end Carolina's playoff hopes as the season barely scratches October, the Saints will have too much this week.
Arizona 1-2 (+7) at Atlanta Atlanta needs to get back on track quickly and with Arizona's porous defense the best way to beat the Cards is keeping their offense off the field. This plays right into the hands of the Falcons. Falcons win big.
Miami 1-2 (-4) at Houston 0-3 Miami has been one of several huge disappointments in the early season. Perfect time to right their season before it is too late. Houston has been among the worst teams and will continue to be. Maybe the Texans are in need of the first overall pick in 2007 to show everyone they can get one right.
Detroit 0-3 (+5) at St. Louis 2-1 Detroit's Shaun Rogers has been way too quiet these past two weeks. Bad news for the Rams. Fortunately they are at home and the Lions' woes, which could be titled "The Never Ending Story," continues.
New England 2-1 (+6) at Cincinnati 3-0 Cincinnati has a better offense than Denver and they are playing at home. I have never seen T. Brady as frustrated as he was in the Pat's loss at home to Denver. If bettors weren't being swayed by the fact the Bengals are playing Brady's Boys the line would be higher. Look for Cincy to stay undefeated.
Jacksonville 2-1 (-2) at Washington 1-2 Jacksonville has a tough defense. Portis expects to play but he can't carry the load by himself. Jacksonville stays on the heals of Indianapolis.
Cleveland 0-3 (-2) at Oakland 0-2 Has someone come up with a name for this machup? Bay of Pigs and the Toilet Bowl have already been taken. The Browns gave it everything they had last week and should have enough to show why they are a two point favorite on the road.
Seattle 3-0 (+3) at Chicago 3-0 Truly should be the showcase game of the week. What were the schedule makers thinking when they decided this game wasn't worthy of Monday night honors? There is quiet confidense building in the Windy City, while Seattle wants to prove getting to the Super Bowl last year was not a fluke. Without MVP Shaun Alexander the Seahawks may very well be too one-dimensional to get thru Chicago's defense enough to win. Look for Rex Grossman's picture end up on 30 Rock as NBC's Rock Star of the Game.
Green Bay 1-2 (+11) at Philadelphia 2-1 About the only people watching this game will be NFC East fans, and Brett Favre fans. Congratulations to #4 becoming only the second QB to surpass 400 career TD passes last week. He might take a couple of steps closer to the all time record for interceptions (He only needs 20) on Monday night. Hopefully for the Green and G.. (it really is yellow) faithful, this game won't get ugly until it is too late to notice.
Hollywood could not have written a better script for the Saints homecoming back in the Crescent City yesterday. The organization AND the City needed that win last night.
The White Sox were put out of their misery last night. Ozzie Guillen could not pull the Sox out of their slump as he did to close out 2005's magical season. Pitching let down the White Sox this year, but less apparent, yet all too real is the fact that the White Sox could not manufacture runs in 2006. Too reliant on the long ball, the Chisox didn't have the same chemistry this year and it ultimately cost them. Look for a lot of changes from the White Sox in 2007, most importantly, a centerfielder.
Chris Simms, get well soon. If anyone had suspected you were not tough enough for the NFL, you answered those crtics. Gladly, it was not by losing your life. If you are in serious pain, tell someone. It is still and always will be a game.
Shaun Alexander is out for several weeks. The NFL needs players like SA. He does his job in the relative anonymity of the great Northwest and does it with style.
On to the NFL Rankings after week three, last week's ranking in parenthsis.
1: Indianapolis Colts (1) An impressive victory over Jacksonville. Indy was beat up by the Jags defense, yet had just enough to pull out a victory. Games like these are wht true champions need to put in to the win column.
2: Cincinnati Bengals (4) Going in to Pittsburgh and coming away victorious was impressive. They need to stay at the top of their game with the Patriots coming to town this week.
3: TIE Chicago Bears (2) Seattle Seahawks (3) After Seattle pasted the Giants last week I was prepared to rank them numer 2, but losing the reigning MVP has to hurt the Seahwaks. Despite taking a huge step by winning in what has been a snake pit for several years, too many penalties and a lack of a running game caused the Bears to drop this week. Needless to say, what a great matchup this week as Seattle travels to the banks of Lake Shore Drive and an engagement with Chicago. It looks like a cog in the Bears new-found offense will be out for a while as Des Clark pulled up lame at Minnesota. Hopefully there is no damage to the small bones in the foot. It was that same type of injury that kept all-world Michael Jordan off the court early in his career.
5: San Diego Chargers (5): An early bye week may take it's toll later in the season, but the Chargers are serious contenders and could very well be playing deep into January.
6: Baltimore Ravens (9): Cleveland of Old vs the New Cleveland was quite an entertaining matchup last week and the better team prevailed. This is already a great rivalry and one must throw out the records any time thay play. Baltimore will be right there all year.
7: Jacksonville Jaguars (6): Never was the importance of all three units more evident than in the Jags loss to the Colts. Jacksonville had handcuffed the Colts offense until the Colts scored on a punt return. That swing in momentum prevented Jacksonville from knocking off the Colts.
8: Denver Broncos (12): An impressive victory going into New England and coming away with a convincing victory. Hats off to the Broncos.
9: Atlanta Falcons (7): Did the Saints uncover the way to stop the Vick led running game? Or was there no way the Falcons, or any other team could have won in New Orleans this week. Jury is still out on the Falcons college style offense.
10: New Orleans Saints (19): A 3-0 start. Who Dat Say Gonna Beat Them Saints... Yes, it has been a long time since the French Quarter heard that chorus. The Saints may not belong nor may they stay in the Top Ten, but this is my blog and I am taking a little artistic license to honor the team for what they did Monday night.
11: Minnesota Vikings (14): Yes they lost at home, but their defense grew up while losing to Chicago. If Brad Johnson continues to lead the team in the poised fashion he has shown in leading the Vikings to a 2-1 start, Minnesota will contend for a Wild Card.
Kudos to the New York Mets and Yankees. When was the last time both the Yanks and Shea Boys were the first teams to win their respective division's in the same season?
Pre-season has begun in the NHL, but has anyone noticed? Pittsburgh rookie Evgeni Malkin was injured yesterday on a play that made the news. A brutal hit that was accidental. Hope the injury is not serious.
Speaking of the NHL; For those of you that don't know, the NHL stands for the Now Hidden League!!! Please tell me the NHL isn't being televised on OLN this year. And if OLN still has television rights, will anyone know?
I used to enjoy hockey. Growing up in Chicago I was glued to the TV when the Blackhawks played (at least for road games). Bobby Hull, Stan Makita, Tony Esposito. Those were the days. Unfortunately, for Chicago hockey fans, no championships are forthcoming and we can only hope for someone to buy the team from the current owner. Only then will the Hawks return to glory. Rumors are swirling the Donald Trump has an interest in purchasing the Chicago Cubs. Perhaps he can save hockey in Chicago and buy the Blackhawks as well.
On to the NFL and STATEMENT SUNDAY!!!! After picking the winners in 9 of 12 games in week one, I tried my hand with the entire week two schedule with good results. I went 12-4 in week two (21-7 for the year). Against the spread I finished 11-5.
Week 3 (Byes; Dallas, Kansas City, Oakland, San Diego
Chicago 2-0 (-3) at Minnesota 2-0
Great matchup of two undefeated divisional foes. Chicago player's are letting their play on the field do the talking and haven't disappointed. Chicago's QB Rex Grossman has made an impressive start giving Viking coaches something to ponder. Do they (like other teams) continue to put 8 and 9 players in the box and make #8 beat them, or do they drop more defenders in coverage. Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson are both looking for opportunities to have a big day. Brad Johnson is a veteran QB that has practiced against some of the best cover-2 defenses going back to his Super Bowl days at Tampa. Chicago won't say they want revenge for what Minnesota did in last year's finale when the Vikings tore through Chicago's second and third stringers and ended up losing the number one ranking in defense last year, but the first string defense is looking to make a statement. Chicago wins another road and division game.
Green Bay 0-2 (+6.5) at Detroit 0-2
If it weren't for contractual obligations, Fox probably wouldn't be televiding this game. Detroit was embarrassed in Chicago and Green Bay has just been embarrassing. Brett Favre only needs 20 more interceptions to be the all time leader. Green Bay's rookie linemen will have their hands full as Shaun Rogers should be in the Packers backfield most of the day. Take the Lions to cover.
NY Jets 1-1 (+5.5) at Buffalo 1-1
After starting the season splitting two road games against divisional opponents, the Bills look to be one of this season's early surprises. The Jets tried to come back against the Pats, but had dug too deep a hole. Buffalo has a difference maker in Willis McGahee.
Carolina 0-2 (-3)at Tampa 0-2
Carolina, or Coach Fox simply gave last week's game away. That won't happen this week. One team has to get off the carpet while the other can already say wait until next year. Carolina wins and covers.
Cincinnati 2-0 (+1) at Pittsburgh 1-1
Another STATEMENT GAME. Great divisional matchups this week continue with Bengals vs. Steelers. Cincinnati wants to make their statement but have 12 players on the injury report. I think Cincy wins, but I would not wager on this game.
Jacksonville 2-0 (+7) at Indianapolis 2-0
This could be an ugly game from an offensive viewpoint. After bullying Pittsburgh and only allowing 153 total yards (26 rushing), can the Jags pull the reigns in on the best aaerial show in the NFL? Yes, Jacksonville pulls another upset.
Tennessee 0-2 (+11) at Miami 0-2
A few years ago, Chicago Bears' GM Jerry Angelo courted Nick Saban, who turned down the coaching gig. The Dolphins were highly overrated coming in to the 2006 season and if the Titans pull of a huge upset this week, Saban will be on the hot seat. Miami should win but no pick here ATS.
Baltimore 2-0 (-6.5) at Cleveland 0-2
Baltimore is only giving 6.5. Lay money on the Ravens before the line changes.
Washington 0-2 (-4) at Houston 0-2
Another year, another slow start by the Redskins. The Skins get off the mat and put their first game in the victory column. Give the 4 points.
NY Giants 1-1 (+3.5) at Seattle 2-0
Seattle was extremely shaky in the season opener, but seemed to get back on track at home last week putting a workman like 341 yards of total offense on the board. If the Giants are behind in the 4th quarter this week, the 12th man and Seattle's defense won't let Eli steal the show this week. I will take Seattle to win but I won't wager on the spread.
St. Louis 1-1 (+4.5) at Arizona 1-1
The Cards christened their new stadium with a win on opening day. The sold-out crowd will be in great form and the Cards impress. Arizona giving the 4.5.
Philadelphia 1-1 (-7) at San Francisco 1-1
A seven point road favorite. Hard to spot a home team that many points. Philly should come home victorious, but I would stay away from a line wager.
Denver 1-1 (+7) at New England 2-0
When will Denver's offense wake up? Denver's offensive woes won't continue, but they still won't have enough against the Pats this week. Give the points and take the Patriots
Atlanta 2-0 (-3) at New Orleans 2-0
I spent two and 1/2 years in New Orleans back in the mid-eighties. My heart is with the Saints, but I would never go near this game if I were wagering. GEAUX SAINTS
NFL rankings after week two. Peaking ahead to this week's games. Last week the NCAA Broadcasters kept referring to "Separation Saturday." With some great matchups in the NFL this week, I call it "Statement Sunday!"
1. The Colts: Another year, another 2-0 start. The Colts continue to dominate the early season like no other team. Indy can make a huge statement with a victory over Jacksonville this weekend. Dwight Freeny hopes to be in the lineup.
2. Chicago: Yes, it has only been two weeks, but with an offense that can put points on the board and stay on the field, keeping one of the best defenses in the league fresh, the Bears will be an exciting team in 2006.
3. Seattle: Despite a shaky start, Seattle got back on track with a victory at home. Another early "statement game" as the Seahwks host the Giants.
4. Cincinnati: If Carson Palmer has all his receivers at his disposal this week the Bengals can get some separation from Pittsburgh. Cincinnati will be looking to show everyone that winning the AFC North last year was no fluke.
5. San Diego: Like Chicago, I have the Chargers rated higher than most media rankings for two reasons. First, the Charger defense is for real. Second, LaDainian Tomlinson is the best back in football.
6. Jacksonville. The Jaguars pushed around the Steelers all night and earned a great amount of respect in the national media. This writer loves Jacksonville. The OL must stay healthy to keep the rush off Byron Leftwich. He now winds up to throw like a pitcher. His wind ups could end up costing him some INT's.
7. Atlanta. The Falcons have rushed for 558 yards in ONLY TWO GAMES!!! Their yardage is more than the rushing total of Tennessee, Miami, Oakland, Detroit and Tampa COMBINED!!! They aren't rated higher because their offense may be too one-dimensional for continued success in the NFL and, with the signing of kicker Morten Anderson, any field goal beyond 40 yards will be an adventure. At 46 years, Anderson became the second oldest player in history. A great kicker for years, Mort simply does not have the leg he once had, which could mean trouble in close games.
8. Pittsburgh. Big Ben was rusty to say the least last week. They would fall out of the top ten if they lose to the Bengals this Sunday.
9. Baltimore. Ray Lewis is healthy again and the Ravens defense is playing extremely well early, albeit against two anemic offenses. Jamal Lewis, however is out for two weeks with an injury and Baltimore will need to score more TDs in the coming weeks.
10. New England. Tom Brady is one of the best QBs in the NFL. Any time the Pat's offense is on the field they can score with Brady behind Center.
11. NY Giants
12. Denver Broncos
13. Philadelphia Eagles
14. Minnesota Vikings
15. Carolina Panthers
16. Dallas Cowboys
17. Arizona Cardinals
18. St. Louis Rams
19. New Orleans Saints
20. Buffalo Bills
21. Washington Redshkins
22. NY Jets
23. Miami Dolphins
24. Detroit Lions (Still looking to find 40 points)
25. Kansas City Chiefs
26. San Francisco 49ers
27. Tampa Buccaneers
28. Cleveland
29. Texas (I wonder how Reggie Bush looks to the Texans now?)
Teams can really make a statement in the following week 3 games:
NY Jets at Buffalo; After losing a close game to New England, the Bills gave #### Jauron his first victory. Their home-opener is this week with yet another divisional opponent.
Cincinnati at Pittsburgh; A great matchup. One team will make a statement. If the Bengals are that team, Pittsburgh falls to 1-2 and beomes hard-pressed to make it back to the playoffs.
Jacksonville at Indianapolis; The best game of the week featuring the unstoppable force (Colts O) vs. the unmovable object (Jags D).
Chicago at Minnesota; One team leaves the "RollerDome" 3-0. Minnesota can make a huge statement. Will Chicago look to dominate? Minnesota rolled up both points and yards in last year's regular season finale after Chicago had taken most of their starters out of what was a meaningless game. That offensive "outburst" cost the Bears the number one defense ranking as well as the record for fewest points allowed in a season.
Carolina at Tampa; Before the season began, most thought this game would be two undefeated teams looking to stake their claim to the NFC South top seed. Now they are fighting for their playoff lives after coming out of the first two weeks winless.
Denver at New England; Despite only 9 points scored in a home victory over an injury depleted Kansas City team, Denver now must come to the Northeast and make a statement if they truly want to be considered one of the AFC's elite.
NY Giants at Seattle; Last years game at Seattle when the Giants had ample opportunity to win the game cost them a first round bye in last year's playoffs. Eli has another year of experience and Seattle is not not playing to their NFC Championship level of last season. Another gret matchup.
Monday night magic in the Crescent City!!! The 2-0 Saints host the 2-0 Falcons in the first game played in the Superdome since hurricane Katrina. The city that celebrates like no other in the nation will be crazed. The atmosphere in N'awlins will be like Mardi Gras. The Saints need to strike early to get Atlanta out of their game plan. If they force Vick to beat them via the air, New Orleans will be 3-0 and Bourbon Street will be a wild place well into the wee hours of Tuesday.
How many field goals last weekend? Offenses seemed a step off key in week one.
Is Green Bay in a panic? As much as I hope Koren Robinson finds the help he needs to kick the alcohol, he will probably be suspended for the year if Green Bay insists on putting him on the active roster. Prayers are with you KRob. Hope you can make it back next year.
Last year the Packers lost RB's Green and Davenport to injuries and along came Samkon Gado. Easy come easy go. Green Bay trades Gado to Houston. Apparently the garbage yards Ahman Green picked up (more than half of his yards were when the Bears were playing loose to prevent one of those Brett Favre comebacks) were enough for the Packers new GM to think Green is all the way back. Who is Vernand Morency? Here are some of his pro highlights pulled directly off Green Bay's web site:
had eight carries for 24 yards at Jacksonville (11/6)
also caught one pass for -1 yards
returned one kickoff 17 yards
had a busy day at Indianapolis (11/13)
caught three passes for 19 yards and rushed six times for 18 yards
also returned six kickoffs 143 yards (23.8 average)
recovered a fumble on special teams
saw action on special teams against Kansas City (11/20)
saw action on special teams against St. Louis (11/27)
Trent Green was released from the hospital. Get back soon Trent. A true class act in the sport.
Roy Williams won't back off his statements. Two days after Williams guaranteed a victory over the Bears this Sunday, Williams is sticking to his words. Latest odds have Chicago -9. I don't think the odds-makers are listening.
Several key games in the NFL this week:
Despite being listed as questionable on the Steelers injury report, Ben Roelisberger hopes and expects to play Monday night when Pittsburgh travels to Jacksonville to take on a very good Jaguar team.
Carolina can't afford to go into week three without a victory. Their LB Morgan is out and Carolina's All-World WR Steve Smith is still questionable. Should be a great game.
This week's matchups:
Buffalo (+6.5) at Miami: Miami's home opener. Buffalo collapsed at New England last week and Miami did likewise in Pittsburgh. Miami should rebound this week and cover the spread. 2stars.
Cleveland (+10) at Cincinnati: Jurevicius is out with broken ribs and the favorite is 8-3 against the spread head to head. Cincinnati should have no problem ATS this week. two stars.
Houston (+13.5) at Indianapolis: The only reason to watch this game would have been to watch Reggie Bush. Oh, wait a minute. The Texan's didn't take Reggie. The Colts should have the spread covered by the end of the first quarter. 1/2 star.
New York Giants (+3) at Philadelphia: Many picked New York to win the NFC East this year. If they start the season 0-2, that probably won't happen. Should be one of the better early matchups of the day. Take the Giants and the under (42). 4 stars.
Tampa (+5.5) at Atlanta: The Falcons appear on the verge of regaining their swagger from 2004 when they almost made it to the Super Bowl. Tampa was embarrased at home. Atlanta looks to be a sure thing, but this early in the season any thing can happen. Look for Tampa to right their ship and at least make it a ball game. I would not be surprised to see them win this game outright. 3 1/2 stars.
Carolina (+1) at Minnesota: Even without LB Dan Morgan, Carolina should have enough speed on defense to keep the Vikings in check this week. Otherwise the Panthers fall to 0-2 and will be hard pressed to make the playoffs let alone to Miami in February. Childress has brought a new attitude to the Norseland. This should be a real hard fought game. Carolina in a close one (maybe overtime). 4 stars.
Detroit (+9.5) at Chicago: Detroit was manhandled by Seattle the entire first half last week, but Seattle could not finish a drive with a TD. The Seahawks outgained the Lions by 100 yards in the first half and dominated the TOP 18:00 to 12:00. Give the Lions due credit for keeping Seattle off the scoreboard. Chicago meanwhile got great contributions in all three phases of the game against Green Bay last week. Detroit will be a tough test, but Chicago should be 2-0. The Bears may not cover the spread but they will win the game. If the Bears play with the same chip on their collective shoulder as last week, Detroit has no chance. Take the favorite. 3 1/2 stars.
New Orleans (-2) at Green Bay: Last year New Orleans ran into a Packer team that could do no wrong in the game at lengendary Lambeau Field. What a difference a year makes as the only reason to watch this game is to see if Reggie Bush gets his first 100 yard rushing game of his career. Saints win. 1/4 star.
Oakland (+12) at Baltimore: Oakland is in disarray and have to come cross-country. Baltimore is 2-0 and will look to go 3-0 with Cleveland up the following week. 1/2 star.
Arizona (+7) at Seattle: Despite outplaying Detroit in the first half, Seattle could not finish a drive, getting 2 field goals blocked and needing a last second field goal to eke out a victory in Detroit. Hasselbeck got beat up and Seattle's OL isn't what is was just last year. Arizona is an up and coming team. Probably the most entertaining late game on Sunday. The Cardinals pull an upest, winning the game outright. 3 1/2 stars.
St. Louis (-3) at San Francisco: Kudos to the Rams for a great performance beating Denver last week. This game could be real interesting to watch. Thinking upset, San Francisco kicks a field goal in OT to beat the Rams. 3 stars.
New England (-6) at New York Jets: Tom Brady will miss D. Branch, but still has enough this week. The Patriots become the early front-runner in the NFC East. 2 stars.
Kansas City (+10.5) at Denver: Losing Trent Green is a terrible blow to the organization and the Chiefs offensive line is hurting. Denver wins big in their home-opener. 1 star.
Tennessee (+11.5) at San Diego: This game could get ugly fast. L.T. is one of the best running backs the league has seen since Walter Payton retired. Tomlison should have 100 yards by half time. Watching him run is always worth the price of admission.
Washington (+6) at Dallas: NBC gets another good game. Neither team can afford to go 0-2, but fortunatley three teams in this division will be 1-1 after this game is over. Washington will be looking up at those teams, but will only be one game back. 3 1/2 stars.
Pittsburgh (-1.5) at Jacksonville: Jacksonville earned some respect in week one with their victory over Dallas. Despite a huge disparity in TOP (Miami's offense was only on the field for 24:33), Pittsburgh needed a couple of big plays and a meltdown by Daunte Culpepper to win in week one. Home cooking and the crowd will be factors as the Jags upset the Steelers.
What happened to the NFC contenders? Seattle squeaks by Detroit. New York and Washington both lose at HOME and Dallas blows a 10 point lead and loses at Jacksonville.
The key to making the playoffs: Dominate at home and within your division. Carolina allowed the Falcons to walk into the Panthers house and take home a divisional game. Yes, Steve Smith wasn't there, but after Atlanta phoned in the month of December last year, Michael Vick now is quarterbacking the early team to beat in the NFC South. Who would have thought Carolina and Tampa would be looking up at Atlanta and the New Orleans Saints!!
Dallas: 9 penalties for +/- 100 yards and had touchdown called back on one of those costly mistakes. Cowboys come away with no points when the ensuing field goal hits an upright and Jacksonville takes the ball downfield after the miss and scores a TD.
Carolina was picked by many to be the NFC team going to Miami this year but got picked on by the Falcons to the tune of 375 total yards. Atanta held the ball for 36 minutes and dominated every phase of the game.
Speaking of domination, San Diego put a old fashioned #### whuppin' on the Raiders last night. Nine sacks by the Chargers defense and a great performance by L.T. Kudos to the San Diego coaching staff for a great game plan on both sides of the ball.
I wonder what happened in Detroit... Was the Lions defense that good or did the Seahawks offense forget to board the plane when the team left Seattle? The Seahawks, another team picked by many to be playing in February must now face a Carolina team that was embarrased this past weekend. Carolina faces a must win early.
If Chicago can keep repeating what they did against Green Bay, they will have home field advantage in the playoffs. The Bears played the entire game with a chip on their shoulder. Mixing the run and the pass they moved the chains and put points on the board, took time off the clock allowing the defense to stay fresh the entire game.
Hat's off to the Vikings. This writer gave them no chance; going into the Nation's Capital against a playoff team from last year in front of some of the most rabid fans anywhere.
With their convincing victory over the Raiders, San Diego becomes a viable threat in the AFC West. Kansas City loses QB Green for at least one game and maybe more with a severe concussion. Denver gets beat by the Rams, a team which many predicted would have a down year.
In the AFC East: Good teams find a way to win. New England came from 10 points down to beat Buffalo. Jauron led teams always seem to find a way to lose a game.
Congrats to Charlie Batch. He maintained his poise and put the ball where it needed to go in the victory over Miami.
ESPN moguls should be smiling from ear-to-ear with next week's matchup. After beating Dallas, Jacksonville hosts Pittsburgh. Should be a great game.
Game Balls Week One: LaDainian Tomlinson, Rex Grossman, Devin Hester, Shawne Merriman, Donovan McNabb, Charlie Batch.
Miami at Pittsburgh: After hearing how good Culpepper looked in the pre-season, I was disappointed in his showing last night. True to last year's form, Daunte imploded. Two interceptions sealed Miami's fate and Pittsburgh took a gift from the Dolphins.
Atlanta (+5) at Carolina: This should be a great game. Michael Vick needs to make a statement this year. Losing Duckett in the trade for Lelie may hurt the Atlanta offense, but Vick needed a down field threat. How will Smith's hamstring hold up? Too much Carolina in this one. Carolina giving the points.
Baltimore (+3) at Tampa: A pickem game. Two very good defenses line up in this game. Tampa has a tough road to keep their division crown and can't afford to stumble out of the gate at home. This game could go to overtime.
Buffalo (+9) at New England: It is hard to pass on a road dog getting so many points this early in the season, but New England is hoping to return to past glory. The Patriots have not lost at home to the Bills since 2000. New England should win this game handily.
Cincinnati (+2) at Kansas City: Kansas City may fool some people this year. A full dose of Larry Johnson may be enough to keep the ####al's offense off the field long enough to give the Chiefs this game.
Denver (-31/2) at St. Louis: Shanahan needs to win now. St. Louis has a new coach. If Denver wants the road to Miami to lead through the Mile High City, they must get off to a quick start.
New Orleans (+3) at Cleveland: The Browns did very little in the pre-season and the Saints are hoping Reggie Bush is a franchise savior. Reggie is worth the price of admission alone. Watch for the Saints to pull a small shock here.
N. Y. Jets (+2 1/2) at Tennessee: Billy Volek is listed at the top of the Titans depth chart, but will we see Vince Young? Could this game give the losing team the inside track to the first pick in 2007? Stay tuned, or not.
Philadelphia (-5) at Houston: Houston has a new coach. Philadelphia has a healty McNabb. Next question.
Seattle (-6) at Detroit: New coach in Detroit but same old results. Seattle tries to repeat as NFC's best team from a year ago.
Chicago (-3 1/2) at Green Bay: Although the Packers still have Brett Favre, who has owned the Bears for the majority of his career, he may not be enough. Green Bay is rebuilding and Chicago should win handily.
Dallas (2 1/2) at Jacksonville: Dallas' front five must keep a good Jags defensive front from pressuring Bledsoe. Both team hope to vie for division crowns this year. Jags strictly on home field advantage.
San Francisco (+7 1/2) at Arizona: My pick as a surprse team in 2006, AZ puts away the 49ers early in this game.
Sunday night: Manning vs Manning: Peyton wins this time
Monday matinee; Minnesota at Washington: If the Redskins hope to get to the playoffs they have to win often outside of their division. Minnesota is rebuilding.
San Diego (-2 1/2) at Oakland: Phillip Rivers passes his first test.
At last, the regular season is at our doorstep. I have predicted a 12-4 season and home field advantage throughout the playoffs for the Monster's of the Midway. A little trouble for the first string offense putting points on the board in the pre-season has done nothing to downgrade the optimism of this writer.
One thing the Bears were not able to do was put the ball in the end zone with regularity during the four "practice games" this Summer. Taking a deeper look at the pre-season, however, and based off last years' success breeds optimism in Chicago not seen for two decades!
First things first. Beat the Packers. Unless the Packers have held back the entire pre-season, they appear to have little beyond Jennings and Driver. Favre still must have time to get them the football and Green Bay has not shown they can do that consistently. With new personnel, a new offensive coordinator and offensive line coach, Green Bay should by all accounts stumble out of the gate. A veteran defense led by Urlacher, Harris, Ogunleye et al, should be able to put the clamps on Green Bay's offense.
Secondly, the Bears offense now will face a cover two scheme in all their division games this season. Rex Grossman faces the best run cover two in the NFL in practice. Combining that with an intact OL, a better than average ground game featuring three running backs that could start in the NFL spells trouble for the rest of the division as well as the NFC.
Look for the Bears to run a balanced offense not unlike that of the 1985 team. The last championship team in Chicago had a decent passing attack as well as a great running game. No receiver in '85 eclipsed the 50 reception mark and no player sscored more than 11 TD's. The bears dominated time of possession. Their defense bent at times but seldom broke. The only exception being the infamous Monday night game in Miami.
The Bears coaches used the pre-season to work on personnel and the passing game. Despite failing to finish drives and scoring touchdowns, Chicago seemed to move the ball effectively. With most players ready to play in Green Bay, look for Chicago to use a balanced attack to move the ball down field.
Health concerns as the season begins; The shoulder's of Alex Brown and Cedric Benson and Mike Brown's Achilles. While both Benson and Brown have injuries that may limit them for a brief time, Mike Brown has missed significant time the last two seasons. The strong safety is a player, motivator and coach while on the field. If he re-injures himself and misses most of the season it will put pressure on the team to meet last year's numbers.
Fortunately, the Bears offense should put points on the board this year. Keeping the chains moving, scoring points and keeping the defense fresh will go a long way to Chicago's success in 2006.
Why home field advantage? Seattle must play against the AFC West, with a road game in Denver. They also have to travel to Chicago, facing the Bears on a Sunday night contest that should give the victor the inside track to the number one seed come January. The East and South divisions have wars of attrition. The NFC East may be the strongest division in the conference and the South is home to three good teams and Reggie Bush.
Good luck to all for a great 2006 season. Let the games BEGIN!!!
On the eve of the first pre-season game, when little news will come from camp, now will be a good time to discuss what has impressed/disappointed about the Bears' preparation for the 2006 season:
The Good:
With a few knicks at DT this pre-season, drafting Dvoracek looks to be a great thing for the depth at the position. Thankfully, Tank Johnson seems way ahead of schedule, but the Bears' staff were thinking he wouldn't be available until week six (similar to what the Bears did with Currie last year). Reports have him possibly ready for week one and maybe even the last week of pre-season. The odd man out appears to be Michael Haynes.
Depth at DB has never looked better. Vasher, Tillman, Brown and Harris have all looked better than good in camp, and they are being pushed hard by the likes of Ricky Manning, Wesley and D. Manning. If Chicago can rotate DB's, it will keep the starters fresh.
Alex Brown talks and acts like a man posseessed this year, as does Urlacher. Not one member of this defense has forgotten how last season ended.
The confidence and performance of Rex Grossman. Yes, practices are not full speed, but the offense is moving the ball against the first string defense. That hasn't hapened much since the team started calling Bourbonnais home to Summer camp a few seasons ago. Grossman is going through his progressions smoothly and with the afore mentioned confidence. His passes have been tight, with touch (when necessary) and, most importantly, on target with regularity.
Brian Griese, though slowed by a combination of not being 100% from his season-ending knee surgery and getting used to Turner's offense, is solidly entrenched as the number 2 QB.
The competition behind Muhammad for the second WR spot has been great. Although slowed by a hip/groin problem recently, Bernard Berrian has stepped up during OTA's and thru the first two weeks in Bourbonnais. Mark Bradley has als
