What in the world of sports has gotten you so upset that you want to call _____________ out on it? The object of your ire can be a player, coach, team, owner, league, fans, or idea. Here in this forum, you can throw so-and-so under the Bus. (The young lady has the week off tonight) I have a few.
NFL
Washington Redskins: they allowed one of the worst teams in the league to win their FIRST game of the season. And the RAMS were the ROAD team. If you're a playoff team, you don't allow a team like the Rams to come in and do you in your own crib. Totally inexcusable. And the Redskins committed their first turnovers of the season. The Redskins get thrown under the Bus.
Minnesota Vikings: yes, they won, but they had to beat the WORST TEAM in the NFL in the Detroit Lions in the last few seconds of the game! You let a sorry team like the Lions hang around for the whole game and NEARLY WIN? And at home, no less? You should have beat them 34-7 at least. Under the Bus you go!
Oakland Raiders: so much for opening the Tom Cable Era with a ####. More like a whimper. I think the Raiders quit from the time they landed in New Orleans. At least under Kiffin, they played hard. They will NEVER be good until Al Davis passes from the scene. (Even then, he'll be ruling the Raiders from the grave) Al, how do you like your team now? Under the Bus they go!
Adam "Pacman" Jones: the Cowboys' CB gave the team another black eye to deal with when he and his bodyguard got in a fight. Dude, stay down. You're fortunate that the bodyguard is going to fall on the sword for you. But here, you get thrown Under The Bus.
NASCAR
Carl Edwards: even though he and Kevin Harvick made nice after the drivers' meeting prior to the Cup race last night, he gets thrown under the Bus for barging into Harvick's garage stall and spoiling for a fight. A brief scuffle ensued before it was broken up by members of Harvick's Nationwide pit crew.
MLB
Philadelphia Phillies: they've been throwing at Dodgers' hitters with impunity throughout the NLCS. Finally, Hiroki Kuroda took matters into his own hands when he threw a foot above Shane Victorino's head. Obviously, it was in retaliation. After Victorino grounded out, he nearly caused a bench-clearing brawl when he glared and gestured to Kuroda. ManRam wanted a piece of Victorino, but was held back by four Dodgers. Victorino gets thrown Under The Bus for not taking it like a man and nearly causing a brawl. Brett Myers gets thrown under the Bus for throwing behind ManRam in Game 2.
Those are my nominees for the week! Feel free to come in with yours!
Around the world of the NFL faster than Reggie Bush turning the corner and gaining huge yardage, Crappafoni Pictures presents to you, the avid NFL fan, this week's version of the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, Surf and Turf style. Enjoy!
THE GOOD
Dallas Cowboys: they went into Lambeau Field and totally throttled a very good Packers team for the nation to see. The Cowboys may have found a #2 receiver in Miles Austin. And their X-Factor so far? Felix Jones. All this guy does is make big plays. For all the talk of the Cowboys' offense, their defense is big, strong, fast, and PHYSICAL. They beat up the Packers into submission.
Miami Dolphins: for a team that was 1-15 last season, they have already matched their win total from last season. RB/QB Ronnie Brown threw as many TD passes than Matt Cassel. Not to mention gashing the Patriots' defense for FOUR rushing TDs. Ricky Williams got into the act, rushing for close to 100 yards (98, to be exact).
Jacksonville Jaguars: to go into Indianapolis and beat the Colts is DEFINITELY good. This was a must win game for the Jags.
Philadelphia Eagles: they pounded a very good Steelers team into submission. Jim Johnson threw everything at the Steelers, including the kitchen sink. I think the sink got a sack in that game. The Eagles recorded nine sacks and a safety. Totally dominating. Not to be overlooked was the punting of Sav Rocca, who kept the Steelers pinned deep in their own territory, allowing the Eagles to keep the pressure on Roethlisberger and the Steelers.
New York Giants: they survived a close, hard-fought game with the Cincinnati Bengals at home, doing what they needed to prevail. They showed the heart of a champion in defeating the Bengals and keeping their undefeated record intact.
Cincinnati Bengals: I'm going to break with tradition and put them in the Good category, despite losing. They went toe to toe with the defending Super Bowl champs and went to overtime before losing. Could they take this game and use it as motivation to turn around their season? Only time will tell.
San Diego Chargers: they won a wild shootout against the New York Jets, bringing back memories of Air Coryell. The Chargers punted only once in the game, meaning Mike Scifres had time to check out the hot babes in the stands. Good win by the Bolts.
Honorable Mention: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Redskins, Denver Broncos.
THE BAD
Kansas City Chiefs: these guys are threatening to make this category their permanent home. Granted, they lost to a good Atlanta Falcons team, but they weren't competitive. This team is God-awful BAD.
Detroit Lions: bad, bad team. They were outmatched and outclassed by an up and coming 49ers team.
St. Louis Rams: nothing like some Lamb Chops for the Seattle Seahawks to fatten up on. The Hawks are still licking their chops after that sumptuous meal.
New England Patriots: this team is in SERIOUS trouble. Their defense is old, slow, and a shell of what they were five years ago. Miami just pushed them around the field and b-slapped them all day long.
Cleveland Browns: losing to a rookie QB is bad enough. But they were not competitive. There should have been a DefCon 5 alert for the citizens of Baltimore due to Derek Anderson stinking up the joint so badly. He was BRUTAL.
THE UGLY
Carolina Panthers: Jake Delhomme lost TWO fumbles, one that directly led to a TD. The defense turned journeyman Gus Frerotte into Joe FREAKING Montana. Was that Gus Frerotte or Joe Montana back there? The coaching staff abandoned the run early in the game when it was working. The Panthers also shot themselves in the feet too many times by committing numerous penalties. In short, the Panthers sleepwalked through the entire game. They weren't ready to play. My question is: did someone spike the Panthers' water with Lunesta?
Houston Texans: Matt Schaub threw three picks, including a Pick Six Special to Cortland Finnegan with 1:17 remaining in the game. Finnegan returned the gift a franchise record 99 yards to put the game away. Schaub was BRUTAL, going 17 for 37 for 188 yards.
Those are my Week 3 nominees. Feel free to come in with yours!
Around the world of the NFL faster than Ed Hochuli's whistle, Crappafoni Pictures presents this week's version of The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.
THE GOOD
New York Giants: they thoroughly dominated a hapless St. Louis Rams. Good teams are supposed to dominate teams like the Rams, and the Giants did so. DE Justin Tuck's Pick Six Special was particularly impressive.
Tennessee Titans: boy, was I ever wrong about this team! The Titans' defense stuffed the Bengals' offense like a Thanksgiving turkey. To hold Carson Palmer to 134 yards passing is especially impressive. Great job by the Titans' defense.
Buffalo Bills: another team I was wrong about. To go into Jacksonville and beat a Jaguars team many thought could reach the Super Bowl, awesome. Trent Edwards was stellar, completing 20 of 25 for 239 yards and a TD.
Green Bay Packers: they ran and passed on the Lions at will, to the tune of 447 total yards and 48 points. Aaron Rodgers continues to prove that the Packers' brass made the right decision, completing 24 of 38 for 328 yards and 3 TDs.
Carolina Panthers: I put them in this category because of their comeback from a 17-3 deficit to win 20-17. Jonathan Stewart continues to impress, scoring twice, the last one coming with less than 4 minutes left in the game. The Panthers' defense rose to the occasion in the second half, stuffing Aaron McKie on a fourth and short to seal the deal.
Dallas Cowboys: they took advantage of two gigantic plays: a 72-yard TD pass from Tony Romo to Terrell Owens, and a 98-yard kickoff return from Felix Jones, both in the first half. While the Eagles moved the ball up and down the field, the Cowboys' defense stiffened up when it mattered. DeMarcus Ware showed why he's an All-Pro, not giving up on the play and sacking Donovan McNabb on the Eagles' final possession. They join the Giants, Panthers, Packers, and Cardinals as 2-0 teams in the NFC.
Washington Redskins: they beat a (battered) New Orleans Saints team many (myself included) predicted to reach the Super Bowl. Jason Campbell picked apart the Saints' defense to the sweet, jazzy tune of 24 of 36 for 321 yards and a late 67-yard bomb to Santana Moss that provided the winning margin.
Oakland Raiders: Darren McFadden broke out in a HUGE way. Subbing for the injured Justin Fargas, McFadden rushed for 164 yards on 21 carries and a TD. He also broke off a 50-yard run. They thoroughly dominated the hapless Chiefs in Arrowhead, rushing for 300 yards as a team.
Honorable Mention: Indianapolis Colts, San Francisco 49ers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers.
THE BAD
St. Louis Rams: this team is GOD-AWFUL bad. They will be LUCKY to win 2 games this season. In fact, they will be competing for the first overall selection in the 2009 draft. They have become the Clippers of the NFL.
Kansas City Chiefs: another awful team, though not as bad as the Rams. Losing at home and getting dominated will get you in this category every single time.
Seattle Seahawks: how could you dominate a team like San Francisco, yet let the game get away from you? And at home, no less? Losing to the 49ers at home gets you in this category every single time.
Cincinnati Bengals: this team is HORRID. No wonder they have Halloween colors; watching this team is a horror show in itself. They will be competing with the Rams for the #1 overall selection in the 2009 draft.
THE UGLY
Pittsburgh at Cleveland: this was a Sunday Night Snoozefest. Missed passes. Dropped balls. A lack of execution by both teams. Granted, it was very windy because of the remnants of Hurricane Ike, but you're pros, you should adapt to the conditions. Either both defenses played stellar, or both offenses were sloppy. I'll bank on the latter. Pittsburgh's defense played better, with Troy Polamalu picking off a Derek Anderson pass to stop a Cleveland drive. Aside from Big Ben's 31-yard TD pass to Hines Ward, he was pedestrian.
Oakland at Kansas City: this was a game between two teams that are biding their time until they set up tee times after Week 17. Another yawnfest.
Ed Hochuli: I have to put him in here because he BLEW three calls, ALL of them shafting the Chargers. He was subsequently graded down by the NFL office.
Those are my nominees for Week 2. Feel free to come in with yours!
Starting in Week 1 and concluding in Week 17 (since there are no bad teams in the playoffs) I will be offering the NFL version of The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly, sponsored by Crappafoni Pictures. I will put five teams in each category.
THE GOOD
New York Giants: they totally dismantled the Washington Redskins last Thursday night. The defense overwhelmed Jason Campbell and the Redskins' offense. Based on what I've seen, the G-men look poised to defend their title.
Philadelphia Eagles: Donovan McNabb is healthy again, and that’s a good thing for the Eagles. They ran and passed at will against the Rams. Defensively, they put the clamps on the Rams’ offense.
Dallas Cowboys: they totally dismantled the Cleveland Browns, looking like the favorites to go to the Super Bowl. Tony Romo looked sharp, the ground game was working, and the defense totally overwhelmed the Browns’ offense.
Carolina Panthers: WOW! What a freaking ending! The Panthers hung in there and kept it close throughout the game. The Chargers took the lead with 2:26 left in the game. Plenty of time for Jake Delhomme to drive the Panthers down the field, culminating in a 14-yard TD pass to Dante Rosario as time expired. It's a VERY RARE feat for a QB to throw a game-winning TD pass as time expires. To go into San Diego and beat the Chargers is a GREAT start to the season.
Atlanta Falcons: Michael Turner. Matt Ryan. Need I say more? Turner rushed for a franchise record 220 yards and Ryan's first pass in the NFL was a 62-yard TD to Michael Jenkins. What a debut for first-year head coach Mike Smith! Looks like the Falcons' braintrust knew what they were doing in hiring Smith.
I could put a whole bunch of other teams in this category, but I will put a few in my honorable mention category.
Honorable Mention: Chicago Bears, Arizona Cardinals, Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos.
THE BAD
St. Louis Rams: they couldn’t move the ball on the Eagles, and the Eagles ran and passed over them at will. While I didn’t expect them to win, I expected a better effort. Yuck. I hope Scott Linehan is updating his resume.
Detroit Lions: they were ill-prepared to play football against the Falcons. While Jon Kitna wasn’t bad, the rest of his team was. Kitna actually had a pretty good day, but the defense was putrid.
Cincinnati Bengals: while I wouldn’t normally put them in the Bad category, they belong there this week because they lost to a rookie QB and rookie head coach.
Seattle Seahawks: where do I start? Special teams? That’s a good place to start. The Seahawks’ special teams allowed a fake FG for a touchdown and a punt return for a touchdown.
Oakland Raiders: losing at home, and not putting forth an honest effort against the Denver Broncos, will get you in this category every single time. They took STUPID penalties, did a ####-poor job in tackling, and did a poor job of game management.
THE UGLY
New England Patriots: losing your franchise QB for the season will get you in this category.
San Francisco 49ers: playing a game of giveaway with the Arizona Cardinals to the tune of five turnovers will get you in this category every single time.
Oakland Raiders: this was so ugly, I turned to a documentary. They were totally and thoroughly dominated by the Broncos. The atmosphere in the stadium is like a morgue. Lane Kiffin better start updating his resume. Now Rob Ryan can really snicker his teehees at Kiffin, knowing he won‘t be fired.
I apologize for leaving some teams off that should be in one of the three categories. Feel free to come in with your nominees!
I will give my thumbnail predictions for two divisions per day until the regular season begins. Today, the NFC East and South.
NFC EAST
Dallas Cowboys: on paper, this team has it all: explosive offense, stout defense, and strong special teams. However, they do have a tough schedule, going on the road to Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Green Bay, in addition to the NFC East opponents. Tony Romo should be able to take the next step in his progress. But questions still linger: can Romo win a postseason game? Will Adam Jones fit in with his new teammates? We'll find out, and, yes. Adam Jones gives the 'Boys a lockdown CB they haven't had since Deion Sanders. Plus, he's the best return man not named Devin Hester. Predicted record (playoff seeding in parentheses): 11-5, first place, (2).
Philadelphia Eagles: Donovan McNabb is healthier than he has been in recent years. He has uber-stud RB Brian Westbrook. The defense is still stout, thanks to defensive coordinator Jim Johnson's scheme. David Akers is one of the league's better kickers. And unlike Romo, McNabb has won in the postseason, narrowly losing to New England in Super Bowl 39. (Of course, he had Terrell Owens then) Still, they're not far behind the Cowboys in talent. With a few breaks, they could win this division; they're that good. Predicted record: 10-6, second place (5).
New York Giants: I have revised my pick of this team. After much consideration, I have elevated them ahead of the Redskins, and NOT because of the opening game. I was going to do this on Tuesday but was sick. As long as the front four apply pressure on QB's all season, they'll be fine. Eli Manning will do his thing, the ground game is solid, and this team will be in contention for a playoff bid, but fall short due to a very difficult schedule outside the division. Predicted record: 10-6, third place (no playoffs).
NFC SOUTH
New Orleans Saints: they are loaded offensively. Jeremy Shockey is a tremendous addition to the offense. He gives them the TE that can split the seam for big plays. IF Deuce McAllister is healthy and good to go after surgery on both knees, it's a huge plus. The defense figures to improve from last season. The addition of Jonathan Vilma is huge. He should blossom in the Saints' 4-3 scheme. Keep an eye out for Tracy Porter. He'll blow up as the nickel back. Predicted record: 11-5, first place (1).
Carolina Panthers: Jake Delhomme is back from Tommy John surgery and is healthy again. With Delhomme under center, the Panthers are a MUCH better team. They are returning to their roots: a power running game with Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams. My big question mark is the front four. Aside from Julius Peppers, who I think will rebound and be the monster stud he's been earlier in his career, this unit is the biggest question mark on the team. The LB and DB corps are much better than last season. John Kasay is older and nearing the end of a stellar career, but he's still one of the more accurate kickers. The loss of Steve Smith for the first two games will be tough to overcome. It's going to be the difference between winning the division and being a wild card team. Predicted record: 10-6, second place (6).
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: the defense is the strong point of this team; they finished second overall in the NFL. Offensively, there are HUGE question marks, particularly at WR and QB. Jeff Garcia has been injured most of camp, and when he has appeared in games, he's been rusty. Joey Galloway is still productive, but at age 36 can he be the receiver that has had three straight 1,000 yard receiving seasons? And who can catch the ball other than Galloway? Can Earnest Graham and Cadillac Williams stay healthy? The offensive line is strong, with Jeff Faine being the oldest member at age 26. While the defense will keep the Bucs in a lot of games, the offense has too many question marks. And no team has repeated as division champion since the division was created in 2002. I expect the trend to continue. Predicted record: 7-9, third place (no playoffs).
Atlanta Falcons: when you have a rookie as your starting QB, your team is a mess. Matt Ryan is smart, has poise and toughness, but he's going to get his brains beaten in. Michael Turner is a good addition to the offense and should take some of the pressure off Ryan. The defense is a good mix of veterans and youngsters. While this team is a mess now, they are taking giant steps in the right direction. Give this team another year or two to contend. Predicted record: 3-13, fourth place (no playoffs).
Tomorrow: NFC North, NFC West.
Washington Redskins: this is Jason Campbell's time to shine. With a new coach and some stability, he should improve greatly. Of course, having Clinton Portis and Santana Moss helps. With the addition of Jason Taylor, the pass rush should improve. While the 'Skins are still behind the Cowboys and Eagles, they're moving in the right direction. Give new head coach Jim Zorn a couple of years. Predicted record: 6-10, fourth place (no playoffs).
It's that time of week when you, the Joe Six-Pack Sports Fan, have every right to call out those idiots, ingrates, and general all around #####$ for their stupidity and arrogance. Time again for you to throw the object of your ire in the sports world Under The Bus. I have a few figures I'd like to throw Under The Bus.
NFL
Dallas Cowboys: this is a neverending soap opera with this team. T.O., Jessica Simpson vis a vis Tony Romo, now Pacman Jones. I suspect Jerry Jones is itching for a lockout in 2011. Yes they'll have a state of the art stadium in Arlington soon. Us non-Cowboys fans are frankly sick and tired of the whole thing. The Cowboys' soap opera gets thrown Under The Bus.
New England Patriots: Spygate won't go away. This is another team that thrives on high drama, particularly with Bill Belichick vs. the world. You used to be a team that people could get behind. Now you're perceived as cheaters. Please, save the drama for your mama. Until then, the Patriots get thrown Under The Bus.
Sen. Arlen Specter (R-PA): he wants Congress to punish the Patriots further. Senator, do us all a favor and INVESTIGATE WHY THE DAMN GAS PRICES ARE SO FREAKING HIGH!! Then do us all a favor and DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT! AND GET OUT OF OUR SPORTS!! Sen. Specter and ALL OF CONGRESS get thrown Under The Bus for being a bunch of do-nothing BLOWHARDS!!!!! Is it any wonder Congress' approval ratings are in single digits?
NBA
Joakim Noah, C/F, Chicago Bulls: he was in Gainesville kicking it when an officer spotted him holding an amber-#### drink, a violation of city law. At the police station, tree was found on him and he was promptly arrested. What the hell are you doing back in Gainesville? You shouldn't be back there unless there is a reunion of the Gators' national championship teams. You're an NBA professional now. At the very least, you're guilty of egregiously bad judgment. For your bad judgment, you get thrown Under The Bus. UPDATE: he accepted a deferred prosecution agreement, resulting in a fine and probation.
Rasheed Wallace, C/F, Detroit Pistons: his act has gotten old and tired. He had a HORRIBLE night when the Pistons needed him most. He single-handedly cost the Pistons a chance to win and force a Game 7 in Boston. My prediction: he won't be back with the Pistons next season. He is supremely talented (a definite top 3 talent when he's on) but disappears at the most inopportune times. Now the Pistons are going fishing for the summer. But before he goes fishing, Rasheed Wallace gets thrown Under The Bus.
NASCAR
Denny Hamlin: WTF was he thinking when he was going full speed on Lap 17 after the wreck was about to stop? He escalated the wreck and knocked himself and Elliott Sadler out and severely damaged SEVERAL other cars that were in the top 12 in points coming in. IF NASCAR had any BALLS, they would park Hamlin AND HIS TEAM at Pocono. He was driving with his head so far up his #### he could see out of his mouth. For being a blithering #### and driving dangerously, Hamlin gets thrown UNDER A FLEET OF BUSES.
Those are my nominations. Feel free to come in with yours.
Here is my unbiased analysis and prediction for Super Bowl XLII.
NEW YORK GIANTS
How they got there: the Giants finished 10-6 in the regular season, good enough for a wild card spot. In the postseason, they defeated Tampa Bay 24-14 in the Wild Card Playoffs; defeated Dallas 21-17 in the Divisional Playoffs; defeated Green Bay 23-20 in overtime in the NFC Championship Game.
What they must do to win: very simple. They MUST control the clock and rush for over 200 yards as a team. Eli Manning must continue to be sharp, and not turn the ball over. So far he has not committed a turnover in the postseason. On defense, they must put consistent pressure on Tom Brady with their front four. They are capable of putting pressure on Brady with just their front four. And if they aren't able to get to Brady, they must force him to see through a forest of arms ready to bat the ball down. They must win the turnover battle, and force a couple of turnovers at critical junctures. They must make a big play or two on special teams (a turnover, TD return, etc.).
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
How they got there: finished the regular season undefeated; won the AFC East; defeated Jacksonville 31-20 in the AFC Divisional Playoffs; defeated San Diego 21-12 in the AFC Championship Game.
What they must do to win: control the Giants' fierce pass rush with a variety of draws, short passes, and screens. Perhaps leave in an extra TE such as Kyle Brady for pass protection. RB Laurence Maroney could well end up being a key player in this game, as he could have his number called quite frequently. On defense, they must pressure Manning into some mistakes. At the very least, disrupt his timing. They must also slow down the Giants' punishing ground game. S James Sanders could well end up being a key factor in this aspect of the game. On special teams, they must win the field position battle and blunt the Giants' advantage.
Who will win and why: when all is said and done, I'd love to pick the Giants, but I don't see them winning. The Giants will be able to put pressure on Tom Brady, but not on a consistent basis. Laurence Maroney will have a huge game; in fact I'm predicting Maroney to have a game for the ages, setting a Super Bowl record with 210 yards on 28 carries and two TDs. He will wipe the forgettable Timmy Smith off the record books. New England caps a season for the ages with their fourth Super Bowl championship in seven years.
Today's games were far more exciting and had the aura of unpredictability than yesterday's games. With that, I give you an analysis and review of today's games.
San Diego at Indianapolis: I have to come correct on this one in a big-time way. I gave the Bolts little to no chance of winning. I'll have my crow chilled, thank you very much. I predicted Indianapolis 37, San Diego 17. And it sure looked that way when the Colts drove down the field for their first TD.
Breaking free Indianapolis Colts tight end Dallas Clark heads for the end zone on a 25-yard touchdown pass in the first quarter of a divisional playoff game against the San Diego Chargers. (Michael Conroy/Associated Press)
But the Chargers' defense stiffened, and forced Peyton Manning into mistakes, including a pick at the Chargers' 2 that killed a Colts' drive.
Jump for joy Eric Weddle (32) and Shaun Phillips (95) of the San Diego Chargers celebrate after Weddle intercepted a pass in the third quarter against the Indianapolis Colts. (Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
The Chargers have playmakers too, and some of them were guys that no one expected to come up huge. You expected LT to make plays, but due to an injury, he was pretty much a spectator. Vincent Jackson? All he did was catch a huge TD pass from Philip Rivers.
Rising up San Diego Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson catches a 14-yard touchdown pass over Indianapolis Colts safety Antoine Bethea. (Michael Conroy/Associated Press)
Darren Sproles? All he did was take a short screen pass 56 yards to the House.
Tide turning Darren Sproles (in air) and Vincent Jackson of the San Diego Chargers celebrate after Sproles scored on 56-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter against the Indianapolis Colts. The Chargers won 28-24 to advance to the AFC Championship game. (Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
Billy Volek? He scored on a 1-yard TD run to put the Chargers ahead to stay. (I also liked the WAC connection when he completed a pass to Naanee, the rookie from Boise State [Volek played his college ball at Fresno State])
Backup plan Injured quarterback Philip Rivers (L) of the San Diego Chargers congratulates Billy Volek after Volek scored touchdown on a 1-yard run in the fourth quarter against the Indianapolis Colts. The Chargers won 28-24. (Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)
The Chargers' defense played outstanding after the first Colts' drive. To win without Rivers, Tomlinson, and a hobbled Gates is so huge. Give loads of credit to the role players and reserves that stepped up. Give credit to Norv Turner and his staff for not panicking and staying within their game plan. The Chargers simply answered the playoffs' slogan, Who wants it more? Today, it was the Chargers that wanted it more. Their reward is a date next Sunday against the mighty New England Patriots in Foxborough.
New York Giants at Dallas: the Giants came out smoking. Amani Toomer's 52 yard TD reception from Eli Manning gave the G-men an early 7-0 lead.
Quick start New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer beats Dallas Cowboys linebacker Akin Ayodele to the end zone to complete a 52-yard touchdown. (Tony Gutierrez/Associated Press)
The Cowboys responded with two TDs in the second quarter, the first a 5-yard TD pass from Tony Romo to Terrell Owens. The second TD, a Marion Barber 1-yard TD run, capped a 20 play, 90-yard drive that took almost 11 minutes. The Giants quickly responded to the Cowboys' long drive, driving the ball down the field. The drive was capped by Amani Toomer's second TD reception of the game, a 4-yarder with 7 seconds left in the first half.
Twice as nice Wide receiver Amani Toomer of the New York Giants scores on a 4-yard reception against the Dallas Cowboys, his second TD of the game. (Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
The Giants made enough plays to keep the Cowboys off balance, particularly on defense. The defense showed tons of heart and grit, playing without three of its regular DBs. They sacked Romo twice, and hit him on eight other occasions. Brandon Jacobs scored what proved to be the game winner early in the fourth quarter. That TD was set up by a huge punt return by R.W. McQuarters.
Balancing act New York Giants punt returner R.W. McQuarters is pushed out of bounds by Dallas Cowboys linebacker Justin Rogers. (David J. Phillip/Associated Press)
Giant score New York Giants players including Shaun O'Hara (60) celebrate after running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scored the wining touchdown on a 1-yard run against the Dallas Cowboys. The Giants beat the Cowboys 21-17. (Matt Slocum/Associated Press)
All season long, Dallas was able to overcome penalties and mistakes. Today, they didn't. The Cowboys had too many penalties that came at the worst times, one of them negating a huge play. As a result, Dallas will be making tee times tomorrow and New York will prepare to play at Green Bay next Sunday night at Lambeau Field. I will preview the conference championship games later in the week. In the meantime, congratulations to both the New York Giants and San Diego Chargers.
Now we come to the best weekend of the playoffs. The eight teams that are still in the playoffs are the elite of the league. Win or go home. For one team in particular, the pressure is enormous.
Seattle at Green Bay: the Seahawks come off a 35-14 thrashing of the Washington Redskins. While the Hawks have long been known for their offense, it was their defense that dismantled the Redskins. Green Bay comes off a bye. For Seattle to win, their defense must force Brett Favre into making mistakes. They must win the turnover battle. Offensively, they must be balanced. The RBs must combine for at least 120 yards rushing. For Green Bay to win, they must put pressure on Matt Hasselbeck, sustain long drives that lead to scores, the DBs must be physical with the Hawks' WRs, and Favre must play smart and within himself. I see this being a fairly low-scoring game. Each team will have its moments. This is the hardest game for me to pick. If Seattle were at home I'd take the Hawks. But I'm taking the Packers in a close game.
PREDICTION: Green Bay 23, Seattle 20 (OT).
Jacksonville at New England: this is a study in contrasts. Jacksonville will pound the ball on the ground and grind you down until you cry uncle. David Garrard takes care of the ball and while he doesn't have playmakers at WR, they get the job done. Their defense is physical, in your face, and the front four can put pressure on opposing QBs. New England has a record-setting passing attack, a ground game when needed, and a ball-hawking, opportunistic defense. For Jacksonville to win, they must control the ball on the ground and keep the Patriots' offense on the sidelines. They must take advantage of scoring opportunities. They MUST take care of the ball. They must put pressure on Tom Brady, forcing him to be ineffective. They must shut down the Patriots' running game. The Jags' DBs better be prepared to do a LOT of sprinting, as Brady will go deep when given the opportunity. For the Patriots to win, they must force the Jags into mistakes/turnovers. Laurence Maroney must have a solid game, with a MINIMUM of 75 yards rushing/100 yards of total offense. Brady must have time to make his reads and throw to the open receiver. The Pats' offense must have a couple of big plays early and jump out to a big early lead. The Jaguars will be able to run on the Patriots and keep Brady on the bench long enough to keep him from turning the game into a track meet. This is my upset of the entire playoffs.
PREDICTION: Jacksonville 27, New England 20.
San Diego at Indianapolis: on the surface, it looks like a bad matchup for the Colts, especially considering the recent success the Chargers have had against the Colts. However, this was before Peyton Manning won his ring. Now that Manning has his ring, he comes into this year's playoffs a lot more relaxed. This is Philip Rivers' first time in a divisional playoff. For the Chargers to win, LT has to have a monster game, the defense has to pressure and knock down Manning, and force turnovers. Plus, the Chargers' special teams have to have a huge game. Rivers must be composed and not melt down. For the Colts to win, they must force Rivers into mistakes, particularly early in the game. If the Colts jump out to a huge early lead, it will be too much for the Chargers to overcome. Joseph Addai will play a huge role in the game. This is not your older brother's Colts defense. This is a Colts defense that will punch you in the mouth repeatedly. They will do that to Rivers time and again. Addai will have a huge game. Colts win big.
PREDICTION: Colts 37, Chargers 17.
New York Giants at Dallas: this is the third time the two teams have met. It's very hard for one team to beat another three times in one season. Dallas has already beat the Giants twice. For the Giants to win, Eli Manning has to keep playing like a franchise QB. They must pound the ball on the ground and Manning must continue to make plays. Defensively, the Giants must create turnovers and put pressure on Tony Romo. They must make plays on special teams. For the Cowboys to win, Romo must play like he did earlier in the season, when he distributed the ball around to his receivers like Santa Claus distributing Christmas goodies to all the kiddies. Terrell Owens must play, and have a huge game. The ground game must be able to move the chains and not be dormant. Eli Manning continues his superb play. The Giants move the ball on the ground. Romo makes enough mistakes that the Giants take advantage of and end up winning.
PREDICTION: N.Y. Giants 30, Dallas 20.
Those are my predictions for the Divisional Playoffs. What say you?
Around the world of the NFL faster than Andre Davis taking not one, but TWO kickoff returns to The House, Crappafoni Pictures presents, spaghetti western style, The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly, Week 17.
THE GOOD
New England Patriots: what more can be said? Perfection. 16-0. And the way they beat the Giants is the stuff legends are made of. Tom Brady got sharper as the game went on. But the playoffs are a totally different animal. The Pats better be prepared to win when they score in the teens.
Carolina Panthers: as has been a recent tradition under John Fox, the Cats went out and won their last game of the season on the road. Matt Moore was efficient, throwing for 174 yards and 2 TDs. DeAngelo Williams rushed for 121 yards and a TD. Granted, Tampa Bay was resting its starters after the first half of the game, but a win is a win, and the Cats will take it.
Washington Redskins: was that a DOMINATING defensive performance, or WHAT? The Skins defense held the Cowboys to one yard rushing. FOR THE GAME. Watching the game, I could sense the late Sean Taylor encouraging his mates; they played very inspired ball, particularly on defense. I saw the Redskins' D-line pushing the Cowboys' O-line around all game long. Now they're on to Seattle, and I think it's a very winnable game for the Redskins.
Green Bay Packers: they put an ####-kicking on the Detroit LLLLLLLLLLLLLions, plain and simple. They seemed to shake the hangover of the loss to the Bears from their systems.
Tennessee Titans: they got it done, on the road, in a hostile environment, minus Vince Young for the last third of the game. Granted, it was against the Colts' second and third string, but a win is a win in the NFL. Kerry Collins was sharp, keeping the chains moving, and extending drives. Now they're on to San Diego next weekend.
Atlanta Falcons: one of the rare times this season I've put them in the Good category. They did beat a playoff team, and scoreboard is everything in the NFL.
Houston Texans: or more specifically, Andre Davis. He returned two kickoffs to The House in a 42-28 win over Jacksonville. The Texans finished 8-8 for the first time in franchise history. The AFC South is the only division to have all four of its teams finish .500 or better.
THE BAD
Dallas Cowboys: one of the REALLY rare times (maybe the ONLY time this season) I've put them in the Bad category. They proceeded to set a franchise low for yards rushing in a game: ONE yard. Thirty-six inches. Three feet. That broke the previous low of seven yards set in 1998 against New Orleans. Tony Romo was not sharp. The Redskins' defense had a lot to do with that. The Cowboys' O-line was pushed around by the stout Redskins' D-line all game long.
St. Louis Rams: I know you wanted the season to end, but I didn't realize how desperate you were to finish it. They threw in the towel and were ready for their tee times. Now you're picking second overall.
Miami Dolphins: you were watching the back of Chad Johnson all game long as he was blowing by you. Ocho Cinco took a short pass and took it to The House from 70 yards away. You couldn't WAIT for the season to end; it couldn't end soon enough. Now comes the inevitable purging by The Big Tuna, Bill Parcells.
Detroit LLLLLLLLLLLLions: you, too, couldn't wait for the season to end. Ford Field will be a ghost town come tomorrow as the players can't leave fast enough. Many of them will be attending their alma maters' bowl games. Others will be taking a much-needed vacation. Still several others have played their last game in a LLLLLLLLLions' uniform, as they will either be released or leave via free agency.
THE UGLY
Kansas City at N.Y. Jets: this epic battle of bad teams was compounded by this game going into overtime. What, did neither team WANT to win?
Buffalo at Philadelphia: a 17-9 yawnfest played in rainy, chilly weather. It would be one thing if both teams were in the playoffs. But neither team is in the playoffs.
Now that the Carolina Panthers have been eliminated, it's time for a quick season in review and what I think they should do next season.
SEASON IN REVIEW
The QB Shuffle: The season started with such promise. Jake Delhomme was off to the best start of his career, with 8 TDs and 1 INT through the first three games of the season, and a QB rating of over 110. Not surprisingly, the Panthers started off well. Then Delhomme suffered a season-ending elbow injury against the Atlanta Falcons. Then let the QB carousel begin. First David Carr, then Vinny Testaverde, now Matt Moore. Carr ended up being a colossal bust. He's skittish in the pocket, and shows none of the confidence that he had coming out of college. Vinny actually looked good his first few starts and the Panthers seemed to turn the corner. Then he got nicked up, forcing the Cats to turn back to Carr. Carr so stunk up the joint that Moore was forced into playing. Moore's finest moment this season came last week, when the Panthers shocked the Seahawks 13-10. Moore was the first undrafted rookie QB to win his first start since 1974. Moore will more than likely start at Tampa Bay next week to finish the season.
The defense: they were very inconsistent this season, following great efforts with real stinkers. This is a unit that is searching for an identity. Julius Peppers had a very un-Peppers like season. Mike Rucker is battling through creaky knees and may retire after this season. Charles Johnson was playing his best game of the season until suffering a serious injury in the Cowboys' game. He was disruptive against the run, and playing very well in pass coverage, at one point defensing a pass 20 yards downfield. The linebacking corps ended up being the strongest part of the defense. Jon Beason and Thomas Davis are two of the fastest LBs in the league. The DB corps aside from Richard Marshall leave a lot to be desired.
Special teams: John Kasay is still very consistent and one of the league's better kickers, but the Cats need a new punter. Jason Baker isn't getting the job done. Ryne Robinson, after a slow start, is finding his stride and is getting playing time at WR. Eventually he could be Steve Smith's successor.
OFFSEASON MOVES
Here are some suggested moves I think the Panthers should make in the offseason. John Fox is expected to return for his seventh season.
Sign an impact free agent on defense. Jared Allen would be an excellent fit and complement Julius Peppers. He has a motor that just doesn't quit.
Now that Matt Moore will be the QB of the future, the Cats can focus on other, more glaring needs in the draft. They need a shutdown CB opposite Richard Marshall. They need a power RB in the mold of Stephen Davis.
They need an identity on offense. Will they be a power running team or a pass-happy team? I'd like to see them return to the power running game and use DeAngelo Williams as a complement to a power runner.
They also need a second WR to complement Steve Smith. Someone that CAN catch the ball and move the sticks.
Relieve Mike Trgovac of his defensive coordinator duties. He had an ATROCIOUS game plan against the Cowboys!! He let Tony Romo have ALL KINDS OF TIME to pick the Panthers' defense apart. Replace him with someone that is NOT afraid to blitz and put pressure on the opposing QB.
If the Panthers make the right moves going into next season, they can be a playoff team again. But they have to have a superb draft AND sign a premier free agent on defense.
Around the world of the NFL faster than two Will Blackmon returns for TDs, Crappafoni Pictures presents for you the fan, in living color, the NFL version of The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.
THE GOOD
Green Bay Packers: they dismantled the Oakland Raiders in every aspect of the game. Will Blackmon was the special teams stud, returning a punt and a fumble for a touchdown. Blackmon became the first player since 1974 and only the fourth in NFL history to return a punt and fumble for a touchdown in the same game. The Pack amassed 445 total yards for the game and dominated the game from start to finish.
Jacksonville Jaguars: they were dominant in beating a Panthers team that basically gave up from the second quarter on. More on that later.
Dallas Cowboys' final drive: the 'Boys were lucky when Paris Lenon kicked the ball to Andre Gurode. If Lenon just falls on the ball, Detroit wins and gets put in the Good category. Lenon's colossal mistake gave Tony Romo new life, and he took advantage of it.
New England Patriots: way to shut up Anthony Smith! Tom Brady is now within a few TD passes of breaking Peyton Manning's single season record of 49. They went so far ahead of Pittsburgh that the Steelers became a one-dimensional team.
Seattle Seahawks: they looked sharp in dismantling Arizona. With five picks, the defense made several big plays, nothing bigger than in the third quarter after Arizona recovered an onside kick. They will be formidable in the postseason, regardless of where they play.
Indianapolis Colts: they are making this game look too easy. The first quarter isn't even over and they're winning 21-0 against the Ravens.
Houston Texans: simply put, they administered a beatdown to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. For some inexplicable reason, they do well against NFC teams.
Denver Broncos: I couldn't forget the Broncos' thrashing of Kansas City. They outgained the Chiefs 453 to 129. The Broncos rushed for 215 yards. They led in time of possession by nearly 10 minutes. They forced three turnovers and didn't commit a turnover. A complete game like that will get you in the Good category every single time.
THE BAD
Carolina Panthers: this may have been one of the worst games the franchise has ever played. They were outgained in total yards 457 to 149. The Jags had the ball nearly twice as long as the Kittens. They were so ineffective that Vinny Testaverde was pulled for Matt Moore. This is a team that gave up in the second quarter. I'd have granted that they would probably lose, but I expected a better effort than this!!
San Francisco 49ers: granted, they did lose to the Vikings, a playoff-caliber team. But they were THRASHED. And on their home turf, no less. FIVE turnovers?? Trent Dilfer was knocked woozy by a Vikings' defense that forced those five turnovers.
Miami Dolphins: 0-13 and counting. Three more and you make history in reverse!! Buffalo just did you again. And with games against New England, Baltimore, and Cincinnati, you just might do it.
THE UGLY
Kansas City Chiefs: this is one of those bad games that you just forget about and go on. Every team has one of those, except New England. I can imagine that the Kansas City Film Festival will supply the filmgoers with PLENTY of Maalox and Pepto-Bismol.
Pittsburgh Steelers: it started with Mr. Motormouth, Anthony Smith, guaranteeing a Steelers victory. Son, don't write checks with your mouth that your #### can't cash. There were several breakdowns in the secondary in this game.
Cleveland at N.Y. Jets: it seemed like the Browns wanted to let the Jets win this game. The Jets hung in this game FAR TOO LONG. The Browns should have won by AT LEAST TWO TDs. Cleveland was fortunate to escape with a win.
Carolina Panthers: see Bad category.
Those are my nominations for Week 14. Your nominations are appreciated. Thanks for reading and responding.
Scanning the world of the NFL, there are no shortage of players, teams, coaches, fans, owners, and officials to throw Under The Bus (Jerome Bettis Limited Edition, 850 hp). Football fans everywhere, you are welcome to chime in with your nominations! I have a few nominations myself.
NFL
The officiating crew in the Denver-Kansas City game: for giving Brandon Marshall a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after Marshall's rendition of "Let It Snow, Let It Snow." Marshall had just caught a TD pass from Jay Cutler and was throwing snow high in the air in celebration of a TD. He wasn't showing ANYONE up!! If he's taunting a KC defender, THEN you throw the flag! Officials, Under The Bus you all go! I'll add the NFL Rules Committee to be thrown Under The Bus as well.
Anthony Smith: this genius guaranteed a Steelers' victory over the Patriots earlier in the week. So what does he do for an encore? He gives up THREE TD passes!! Not ONE, not TWO, but THREE. As I write, 54fulltiltfulltime is having a whole pot of chilled crow delivered to one Anthony Smith. For this foolish guarantee, Anthony Smith gets thrown where? Under The Bus!!!
Carolina Panthers: embarassing. While J-ville is a good, but not great, team, I expected a MUCH better effort from the Kittens. ONE HUNDRED FORTY-NINE TOTAL YARDS?? WORSE THAN PATHETIC!!! Not only that, but J-ville amassed 427 yards in total offense. Time for Fox to go and be replaced by Bill Cowher. Give Cowher total control of the football operations. For this God-awful "effort", the Kittens get thrown Under The Bus.
Detroit Lions defense: it is inexcusable blowing a 13-point lead in the fourth quarter! The Lions' offense played well enough to put an ####-kicking on the Cowboys' defense. If the defense played half as well as the offense, the Cowboys would be tied with the Packers at 11-2. Paris Lenon had a chance to put the game away with a fumble recovery, but he tried to scoop it up and deflected the ball to Andre Gurode of the Cowboys. ALL HE HAD TO DO WAS FALL ON THE F-ING BALL AND THE LIONS WIN!!! IS THAT SO HARD TO DO?? Instead, Tony Romo completes a clutch fourth down pass on the next play to keep the drive alive. The Lions' defense gets thrown Under The Bus.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: I've been propping you guys for most of the year, and you reward me with THIS?? A beatdown administered by the Houston Texans' second-string QB? I can see this if it were the Cowboys or Packers putting the beatdown on the Bucs. But the TEXANS??? The Bucs get thrown Under The Bus.
ESPN: for single-handedly making Monday Night Football irrelevant. You have matchups like New Orleans-Atlanta?? Which Head #### decided that this would be a compelling matchup? The Four-Letter gets thrown Under The Bus.
NFL schedule makers: for putting another couple of overexposed NFC East teams on NBC next Sunday night: Washington Redskins vs. New York Giants. The Redskins' playoff hopes are BARELY on life support. A MUCH better matchup would be Buffalo at Cleveland. Admit it NBC, you have a bias towards Eastern teams from the Eastern Seaboard no matter how BAD THEY SUCK (NY Giants, Washington, Philly, New England). Just get it done and sign an exclusive contract with the NFC East. So Under The Bus you go!
NBA
New York Knicks: too much drama. Between Isiah Thomas and Stephon Marbury, it would be too much for even the most hard-core Knicks fans to handle. There WAS a time when the Knicks were a well-run franchise among the NBA's elite. It's going to take Thomas' departure, either by firing or resignation, plus some very good personnel moves, to make this franchise good again.
That's all I have for now. I have expanded this to include all sports. Feel free to come in with your nominations!!!
