Hollywood could not have written a script that could do justice to what is inevitably staged to happen Sunday, November 4Th at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis, Indiana. Two teams, both riding waves of immense success, will meet in a never before seen battle on the Gridiron....    

For the first time in the eighty-eight year history of the National Football League, two undefeated teams with seven or more wins will face off against each other. So much hype has surrounded this game that is has been dubbed Super Bowl XLI and a half .     

The (8-0) New England Patriots are set to take on the (7-0) Indianapolis Colts in what will, no doubt, be the most intense game of the season.    

In order to do justice to this match-up, I will examine both teams, their players and their Head Coaches. I have to say that these two teams are as different as night and day in just about every aspect, except for one. . .they are both Undefeated.    

BILL BELICHICK :  

In every great war story there has to be a brilliant, but hated general. I could think of no better description than this to describe such a man.  

Bill has had much success in his time as Head Coach of the New England Patriots. He has been solely responsible for laying out each battle plan in order to create this now Dynasty.    

A highly respected Coach for many years, whose probably the most hands on Coach in the NFL, Bill is involved in every aspect of his team. From the Offense, Defense and Special Teams, Bills hands are right in there, directing each play like a well-choreographed dance.  

And while this is a bit unheard of in a time of very expensive Offensive Coordinators, Defensive Assistant Coaches and numerous others, who are hired to make the Head Coaches job that much easier, Bill remains cemented in his way, or no way.  

Unfortunately, this season Bill was caught cheating by filming the defensive calls in the season opener against the Jets. As usual, the media jumped on a name for the scandal, which has stuck. SPY-GATE! The reason I even bring this up is to allow you to see where the chip on Bills shoulder comes from.    

Unlike most, who would find them self in this type predicament, Bill instead became defensive, and barely apologized, if that is what you can call it. Since then the New England Patriots have been using the mentality that it is, "Us against the world!"  

*Quote From Bill on Sundays Game* 

"It's the next game, he replied." 

                                     

      

 TONY DUNGY:  

Most are aware of  the trials, tribulations and tragedy that have affected Colts' Head Coach Tony Dungy on and off the field. It is how he has handled these situations that have given us an intimate picture of this most beloved Head Coach. . . .  

Dungy first became a household name when he was the coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. During his time there the team went to four consecutive playoffs. Dungy built a team that was good enough too win the Super Bowl, but unfortunately it would come the following year after the Bucs fired him for not making it to the Super Bowl. Talk about irony.  

This almost made Tony walk away from football all together, but fate intervened and a new door opened in Indianapolis. It is here where his faith, quiet authority and his strong desire to persevere would pay off.  

Dungy is a master when it comes to knowing how to get the best out of his players. He plans a brilliant battle attack, but allows for his players to make the necessary changes when need be. Working as a team has allowed them many things, but none more important then winning Super Bowl XLI last February against the Chicago Bears.  

Unlike his opponent, Dungy will go into this game looking ahead to the rest of the season. Remaining undefeated is not a priority on his list. The number one priority on his list is leading his  fifty-three players and sixteen coaches back to the Super Bowl.

                                    *Quote from Dungy on Sunday's match-up*    

“It's going to be fun,” Dungy said. “It will be fun, and it will be two good teams that know each other, but nothing more than that, really.”      

 

 DUELING QUARTERBACKS:   

Undoubtedly Manning and Brady are the best quarterbacks in the entire NFL. They both have Super Bowl wins, Super Bowl MVP awards, and both have been in numerous Pro-Bowls. These two have met a total of eight times in their careers, which would explain the deep seeded rivalry between them. But, if there was a recipe to create the perfect QB, it would have to be based solely on these two. . . .  

Their passing skills alone are flawless. When both release that pigskin it appears to be effortless on their part. It is a purity that is rarely seen in a game where most quarterbacks scramble to get the ball off.  

For both, it almost seems as if they have all day to access where their deadly accurate aim will be placed. With Manning and Brady together, keeping it in the air all day, this game will likely be referred to later as the "Day of the Aerial Attack."  

 Tom Brady:   

This season for # 12 has become a Cinderella story in the making. Brady has thrown for thirty touchdowns in only eight games. It seems that there is no doubt that he is enjoying the role reversal this year between him and his adversary Peyton Manning.   

In previous seasons, it had always been Brady who has had the Super Bowl rings, but lacked severely behind Peyton in best overall Stats. With all that now changed, we have come to see a poised Brady who takes charge of his offense with supreme command.  

With thirty touchdowns, nineteen short of Manning's record, a total of 2,431 yards and only two interceptions, this guy is a freight train who has yet to be stopped. While relying on his receivers heavily, Brady has been able to exploit them with his pin point accuracy. He is a mechanical QB, who appears to be more robotic than human at times.  

If you think that Tom Brady is being humble about his success think again. With the team being called cheaters all season, Brady has developed a boulder, not a chip, on his shoulder. When being asked about the upcoming game against the Colts, Brady had this to say. . .                                          
                        

                                     *Quote from Brady on Sunday's match-up*  

"They are a great football team but I think we have proven over the last eight weeks that we can play at a pretty high level ourselves. You can’t turn the ball over against the Colts. It’s usually seven points. You can’t punt the ball to them because it’s usually seven points.”  

Of course there will be no trash talking between these two, but the tension is definitely there. With so much at stake, it is very clear the Tom Brady will bring everything he has in his arsenal Sunday. And though I am not certain about this, I feel that Brady has an ax to grind in Indy during this match-up. He wants to walk away from a game, that could possibly define his entire career, victorious, because anything less than that just would not do.    

 PEYTON MANNING:  

What a year this has been for Peyton Manning. He is the reigning Super Bowl MVP and has won the last thirteen home games in Indy, as well as twelve consecutive wins. On Sunday's his face is all over everywhere with his plethora of television commercials.    

Last Sunday against the Panthers Manning tied and then broke Johnny Unitas' team TD record with a total of 228.  But, this Sunday holds much more weight than anything Peyton has done since February.  

While it is true, statistically speaking, Peyton has not been as good this season, he has benefited from the stability of his offensive combined with that cannon he calls an arm, which has allowed him to lead them to week nine undefeated.   

With the weapons Peyton has at receiver and running back,and playing at home in front of his adoring fans, we may very well see Manning at the top of his game. There is no doubt that Peyton has the faster arm of the two, and that where Brady is mechanical, Manning is more human than robotic.  

Peyton has thrown thirteen touchdowns for a total of 1,833 yards with only three interceptions this season. He seems to have a knack for always knowing where to throw the ball, and knowing where the rush is coming from. It is actually uncanny that he always seems to know exactly how much time on every snap he has to throw the ball. Peyton is a clutch player, and has always held command of that offense.

                                   
*Quote from Manning on Sunday's match-up*     

“They’re playing great and it’s well-documented what we think about the  Patriots,  their organization and how good of a team we think they are. You just don’t want to give an inch,” Manning said. “You don’t want to come out flat and lose one. In the AFC now, you can’t afford to lose one.”    

Manning knows that this is one of those career defining moments, and I am sure that he wants this win as much as Brady does. But I think he also understands that it is more important to maintain a hard earned two game lead in the AFC South. Still with that being said, it is a certainty we will see Peyton Manning at his best this Sunday.    

 

MATCH-UPS:  

I am not sure if anyone else is aware of this, but there are more players than just Manning and Brady playing in the game tomorrow.  Here, I am going to briefly match Patriot and Colts player by posistion.

ADDAI vs. MARONEY:  

Both of these guys are great running backs, but Joseph Addai is the better all-around back. He can pick up a blitz well, catch out of the backfield and over all is the better runner of the two. Amazingly they match up in size almost perfectly. The only thing different about  Maroney is he is  a bit better at being more versatile than Addai.    

RECEIVERS:  

Colts: 

What a group the Colts have. There is no doubt that they are three of the best receivers in the NFL. Marv Harrison, Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark. These are the guys that make Peyton look good. In tough situations you can always count on their combined experience together to get them through.    

Wayne and Harrison are excellent route runners. I honestly believe that Dallas Clark may have the best game of his career this Sunday, especially if Dungy does not clear Harrison to play. Clark will be called upon to step up the intensity of his game.    

Pats: 

The Patriots do not have a shabby group of receivers' either. Between Moss, Welker and Stallworth they have both put up impressive numbers combined for a total of 1,803 yards. Among the three of them they have twenty touchdowns, with the most (11) going to Moss.    

It seems with every snap Moss finds away to get wide open, and Welker has the ability to go underneath. The only thing going against these guys is that they have not been together long. Still eight consecutive victories can only make you imagine just how great they will be after being together for a few years.

DEFENSIVE ENDS:  

Colts: 

Dwight Freeny is a defensive end who causes offenses to worry whenever they are on the opposite side of the ball as him. This season he has eighteen tackles, four forced fumbles and 3.5 sacks. When playing Freeny it has been said that he has to be doubled teamed at all times, otherwise he will be face to face with the QB quickly. I think Brady should be a tad worried about Freeny Sunday, because he has been nursing a right shoulder injury most of the season.    

 Pats: 

Richard Seymour has been out most of this season, but made his return in the game against the Washington Redskins. It is apparent that there still may be some issues over whether or not he is 100%. If he can play without pain this game, and play well, he could be a force to contend with. Still, his stats from the past '06 season are not as good as theyshould have been. Therefore, with too many if's concerning Seymour, I am really not expecting a big game for him.

SECONDARIES:    

Colts:

Marlin Jackson absolutely ranks the best in this group. This season he has already had a total of forty-eight tackles and one interception. While he has not recorded any sacks yet, he will be the one who dominates the field Sunday.    

Colts:

Bob Sanders has thirty-eight tackles, one interception and two and a half sacks. Between Marlin and Bob I am giving them the advantage in this match-up.

Pats:

Rodney Harrison is not having the kind of  year that I am sure he would like to be having, but he does have sixteen tackles, with no interceptions and two sacks.    

Pats:

Asante Samuel also is not having a great season. He has only recorded seventeen tackles, with zero sacks. The one bright spot for him and the Pats defense is he does have four interceptions.    

SPECIAL TEAMS :   

 Colts:

It has been said that if this game comes down to a field goal, Adam Vinatieri could be the key to a Colts victory. This season Vinatieri is 14/15 with his longest kick from thirty-nine yards. Adam's average is just slightly below the leagues leading kicker( Patriots Gostkowski) in the NFL. But the most important fact is that Vinatieri was the kicker for the Patriots ten out of twelve years in his career. So this is personal for Adam, which in my opinion gives him the advantage.    

Pats:

Having to fill big shoes after Vinatieri left, Stephen Gostkowski is leading the league with 10/11 attempts, his longest being from forty-five yards. This week he will face off against Vinatieri in what could very well be a game decided by the kickers.

*Side Note: It will be worth watching to see if either team will "Ice" the kicker the way Buffalo did to Dallas.*        

 

Summary:    

New England has outscored this season's opponents by at least seventeen points. Brady's passing rating is incredible at 136.2 yards. Randy Moss is on course to breaking a team record this weekend with most touchdown catches. In all the teams the Patriots have played only two teams have scored more than twenty points on them, the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins. Odds have the Pats by four and a half over the Colts.  

If for some reason Brady was unable to finish this game, back-up QB Matt Cassell would have to come in....the Patriots would then have to say, "Goodbye" to the rest of their season. It is the only position that the Patriots have no depth to.  

This is a serious issue that one would think Belichick would never have allowed to happen. With Brady already suffering from an injury to his right shoulder, Cassell coming in, if Tom goes down wrong on that shoulder, is a real possibility.   

So what do the Colts need to do to win this game?    

With Dungy being able to figure out Belichicks game plan in the last three games, I think it is safe to say that this will also be the case tomorrow. Many adjustments have been made to Indy's defense this season to allow for more coverage in the backfield, as opposed to blitzing on every play.    

Still, pressure has to be applied to Brady constantly. If he is allowed to much time in the pocket, Brady will take full advantage of the situation. Make him feel pressured. If at all possible sack him as many times as you can. Keep Moss double-teamed at all times, never letting him get open in the backfield. Stallworth should be covered as often as possible, but be more concerned with Moss.    

The Patriots quarterback and dynamic trio have not been together long enough to gel in such an intense game like this. Let's not forget that though Randy Moss seems to have changed his bad-boy ways, simply because he has yet to be shutdown. But, I can almost guarantee, should that happen, we will see his bad-boy ways return.  

My choice for the winner of this game has to be the Indianapolis Colts by six over the New England Patriots. The Colts, first and foremost, are the reigning Super Bowl Champs. They are at home playing in front of their fans, and they have won the last three match-ups against the Patriots. And while there is no denying that the Patriots appear to be unstoppable, I just feel very strongly that the Colts are the brick wall that will stop them.

   Final Score: Colts 34- Pats 28    

All in all, this is probably the best game that will occur in the NFL this entire regular season. Two equally consistent and well organized teams will give a game for the record books. So kick back and relax, because  this game has been dubbed the "BIGGEST RIVALRY" ever in the National Football League!

                                              
                                        

Caught in a storm of a media glare the New England Patriots and the Miami Dolphins are being scrutinized for very different reasons. Throughout this article I am not going to rehash every game that has brought the Patriots to their now (7-0) record, and I am not going to reopen the wounds of the seven losses for the Miami Dolphins. No what I am going to do is try to answer the question, "What is More Likely... Patriots (16-0) or Dolphins (0-16)?" to the best of my ability....

In order to gain perspective for this subject, one has to actually delve into both teams remaining schedules, injuries, stats and what actually counts the most, in my opinion, heart and determination. And while there is also no doubt that the halfway mark should count for something, I have always found that "Any Given Sunday" and constantly being an "Underdog" can completely change everything. . . .

THE (7-0) NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS:

We all know how this season started for the Pats and their beloved head coach Bill Bellichick. But just in case you were stuck in a dungeon or orbiting the Earth, let me quickly catch you up.

In Week One, during the game against the Jets, it was brought to the attention of the entire Free World, that the New England Patriots were caught filming signals being called from the Jets sideline. And much to the dismay of Patriots fans, and to the delight of Patriots haters, the NFL fined both the team and Bill Bellichick. Many teams around the league rumbled about some of the same activity occurring while they too played the Patriots, but it seemed that only a monetary fine and loss of draft picks was in order.

Many thought that with the Patriots being branded "Cheaters" they would fall by the wayside. But, as it turned out, the money was an insignificant small price to pay for a team who would go on to become (7-0). If anything, this brief blip made this team, who has already become a Dynasty, even more determined to prove that they are still the elite, creme de la creme of the National Football League.

With a combustible combination of Tom Brady, a completely changed Randy Moss, and multitude of talented receivers, running backs and tight ends to throw to, they have found a chemistry that propelled the Patriots onto one victory after the next. On average the Patriots are scoring (39.9) points a game. Tom Brady seems poised to surpass Payton Mannings record of forty-nine touchdowns set back in 2004. As of this moment, Brady has already thrown twenty-seven touchdown passes, and it seems to be a very good possibility that he could finish the season above the sixty TD mark.

With such perfection coming out of New England, one would have to give serious thought to the possibility that the Patriots could be the team to finally go through a season undefeated since the '72 Dolphins. Still this is something that has not occurred in almost thirty-five years. The reason this record has not been tied yet....it is almost an impossible accomplishment in today's computerized NFL.

With the advanced equipment that is used to study each player's strength and weaknesses, it is very probable that the Patriots will run into an opponent who will find a way to stop them. So far this season the Patriots have yet to truly face a tough defense. A defense that will put significant pressure on  Brady and shut down their passing game as well as their running game. What will happen then? Will Tom Brady be able to maintain that same level of composed consistency? Will Moss be able to get out in the open, down field when Brady airs it out? I think these questions and many more will be answered over the next two weeks.

Remaining games left on Patriots Schedule:   

Week 8-   WASHINGTON at NEW ENGLAND

Week 9-   NEW ENGLAND at INDIANAPOLIS

Week 10- BYE

Week 11- NEW ENGLAND at BUFFALO

Week 12- PHILADELPHIA at NEW ENGLAND

Week 13- NEW ENGLAND at BALTIMORE

Week 14- PITTSBURGH at NEW ENGLAND

Week 15- NEW YORK JETS at NEW ENGLAND

Week 16- MIAMI DOLPHINS at NEW ENGLAND

Week 17-  NEW ENGLAND at NEW YORK GIANTS

The Patriots will take on the Washington Redskins this Sunday at Gillette Stadium. And while it is no secret that the Redskins' offense has been in dire straits due to injuries on the line, Greg Williams defense is rated amongst the top five throughout the league. Free Safety, Sean Taylor is rated first in the league with five defensive interceptions this season. 

London Fletcher alone has had seventy tackles for the season. Forty on his own, and an interception returned for a touchdown last week against the Cardinals. Not only that, but Fletcher also has some old scores to settle. In 2002 London Fletcher, while playing for the Rams, lost Super Bowl XXXVI to Tom Brady and his Patriots. He also then went on to play for Buffalo where he would meet the Patriots twice a season from 2002-2006.

In Brady's time with the Patriots he has beaten every team in the NFL except the Washington Redskins.  Back in 2003 during Brady's only appearance against the Redskins he was limited by a talented Washington defense to only two touchdowns and in turn threw three interceptions. Could this be the week that Tom Brady and his offense falter?

The following week the Patriots will travel to Indianapolis, the one place where they are NOT welcome. They will face their rivals the (6-0) Indianapolis Colts. It is the most anticipated game of the 2007 NFL season. To be honest, I do not even think the Super Bowl is billed as highly as this game is. It does not get much better than Brady vs. Manning, a classic showdown! If anyone on the schedule for the Patriots can give them a run for their money, it is Payton Manning and his Colts.

In a season where there are many doubters to the true legitimacy of whether the Patriots are THAT good, I would have to say that, "Yes, I do think they are that good offensively, but I am not sold on the fact that they will be able too win every single remaining game left this season." I have not brought up their defense, as I am not overly impressed with them. To me, I think the best way to sum up their defense is to look at who has scored the most against points against them. It was last Sunday when the (0-7) Dolphins scored twenty-eight points. To me that just does not say much for the Patriots' defense.

There is just too much good competition ahead of the Patriots. Not only will the 'Skins and Colts give them a run for their money, but I believe the Steelers and the Giants also have a very good shot at it as well. But if you were to strip it down and look solely at who has had a tougher schedule, the Colts, by far, have played a harder fought season than the New England Patriots. Therefore I do not believe that the Patriots will finish this season undefeated at (16-0).

THE 0-7 MIAMI DOLPHINS:

In a season where brown paper bags seem to be on backorder in Miami, truth is, if it were not for bad luck the Miami Dolphins would have no luck at all. From losing key players in the off-season, to season ending injuries, the Dolphins are now finding themselves the butt of every joke around the league. I find it completely amazing that this team has not gone into the Witness Protection Program to hide from their fans.

This week we find that the Fins have swam across the "Pond" to take on the New York Giants in Merry Ole London, at Wembley Stadium.  Not only is this a tough situation by just traveling, but the Dolphins find they are facing a team who has managed to pull themselves up by their cleat straps too win the last five games in a row. The New York Giants have become a formidable opponent for any team, but for the Dolphins it is just another Sunday they would rather not face....

The Dolphins lost their Vet. quarterback Trent Green when he decided to lower his head against Travis Johnson during the Fins/Texans game three weeks ago. And while there has been much debate over who was in the wrong, Trent Green is done for the season and possibly for good. This has allowed Cleo Lemon to come in and take the helm. To be honest with you, I was kinda impressed while looking at Lemons stats. Did you know, for instance, that in the two weeks he has been quarterback for the Dolphins he has thrown for 214.3 yards a game? He also threw for two touchdowns. Not great, but not bad either.

Of course there is no reason to jump on that train, as I have found that Cam Cameron is considering replacing Lemon with back up QB John Beck. Why? Well maybe he wants to cement Beck as the future for the Dolphins, but with a lack of consistency at that crucial position it is bound to ruin any quarterback in the NFL. So unless Cameron is willing to stick with one QB it very well may be a possibility that the Miami Dolphins could become the first winless team in the NFL since the 1976 Bucs.

To say that the Defense for the Dolphins has been abysmal is a gross understatement. When a defense for any team allows an average of thirty-plus points to be scored on them all season, with two games surpassing the forty point mark you know it is time to pack up the moving van. I think it would be in the best interest of Wayne Huizenga to do some serious house keeping once this season comes to a close.

Remaining games left on Dolphins Schedule:  

Week 8-   DOLPHINS VS NEW YORK GIANTS (LONDON, ENGLAND)

Week 9-   BYE

Week 10- BUFFALO BILLS at MIAMI DOLPHINS

Week11- MIAMI DOLPHINS at PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

Week 12- MIAMI DOLPHINS at PITTSBURGH STEELERS

Week 13- NEW YORK JETS at MIAMI DOLPHINS

Week 14- MIAMI DOLPHINS at BUFFALO BILLS

Week 15- BALTIMORE RAVENS at MIAMI DOLPHINS

Week 16- MIAMI DOLPHINS at NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

Week 17- CINCINNATI BENGALS  at MIAMI DOLPHINS

 By looking at the above schedule I honestly believe that the Dolphins will not lose in week nine. It is actually a sure bet. No I am just kidding. Sorry long articles make me a bit giddy.

 Here are a few suggestions too coach Cameron on how to win at least one game this season:  

1- Do not pull Cleo Lemon and replace him with rookie John Beck.

 2- Always make sure that all of your players are educated enough to know where London is on the map.

3-Do not allow players to sit in traffic at the stadium after a game, as "Fender Benders" are bound to happen.

4- Whatever you did in the second half of the game against the Patriots to mount a mini comeback, use again on teams such as the Jets, Ravens and Bengals.

5- Let Jason Taylor give the pep talks to the team. This guy knows how to motivate.

6-Look up the winning formula of the 1972 Dolphins and apply exactly as written.

Seriously, with so much turmoil upsetting the Dolphins this season, fans of the team either have to give up and start looking forward to next season, or laugh at the ridiculousness of it all. Zach Thomas was in a fender bender last Sunday in stadium traffic. He has whiplash and will not be in London. Linebacker Channing Crowder treated the media to a peak into his sad education by saying he could not point out London on the map unless it was already written in. He knows Italy is in the shape of a boot, but that's about it. Oh, and he was relieved to learn that they speak English in London....WOW!

Jason Taylor was the only thing that impressed me coming out of Miami. Let me give you just a sample from his quote given recently,

 "There's certain things in life, in this world, we can control and certain things we can't. And if we waste our time and energy and worry too much about things we can't control, then I think were not giving ourselves a good enough chance."

That statement, Dolphin players, is something to hang your hat on. Build from there and know that, while this is not a playoff year, the worse thing you could allow is to have your name placed in history as winless right next to the 1976 Bucs....  

So all in all, if I have to answer which team will achieve the status of undefeated, or winless, it would have to be the Miami Dolphins going winless. I just see too much possibility in the teams left facing the Patriots to allow them to finish the season undefeated. And while my opinion throughout this has been based on the sure thing teams... I have to finish with this......An Underdog on Any Given Sunday can change Everything!

You can call this guy Vince Young, VY, or even In-Vince-ible, because it seems that he answers to many names. Though the most important name he now answers to would be the starting Quarterback of the Tennessee Titans . In order to fully know whether or not Young is getting worse, or just had a tough day against the Falcons, one has to look into the past in order to see the present clearly. . . .  

Vince Young made a name for himself early in his football career.  After graduating High School in Houston Young went on to become one of the greatest Longhorns to ever play at the University of Texas. If there was a record to be broken,or a championship to be won Vince was your man. If there was an award to be handed out, Young was there to receive it, with only one exception, the trophy of all trophies, The Heisman.

Young came in second behind another shining star at that time, Reggie Bush. You would think that after finishing his rookie year in the NFL with much success and fanfare; Vince would be content with his accomplishments and ready to move on. Well if that is what you are thinking you would be wrong my friend. Young said during an interview with 60 minutes earlier this year he is still upset that he lost the Heisman Trophy to Reggie Bush.  

 Now some would think that statement makes Vince Young seem vain, arrogant, or even a poor sport, but in truth, I believe it shows the competition inside that drives the man. . . .

 

 Vince Young was drafted by the Titans in the first round (third pick) on April 29, 2006, but unlike most QB's drafted, Young would become the starting quarterback for the Titans sooner rather than later. He started a total of eleven games last season proving that his talent was not something he left behind back in Texas. The "Duel Threat Kid" who can rush as well as he passes, seemed to be just what the Doctors ordered in the Music City!

Drawing so much limelight from his rookie season, Young has gone on to star in numerous commercials and a Mike Jone's music Video. Some would say that with so much going on it might be possible that Young has started to believe his own hype. And while there may be some credence to that, in looking over his stats from the '06 season, compared to this season, the only difference I can see is in the amount of interceptions he has thrown.  The rest of his stats are right on schedule.

In the '06 season Young threw a total of thirteen interceptions, and so far during this season he has thrown for a total of five already, three would come from his last game against Atlanta. Not great by any stretch of the imagination, but if you were going to contrast and compare, the Great Brett Favre threw a total of eighteen interceptions last season, and has already thrown four this season, two in his last game against the Bears.

   The Titans are actually off to their best start since the 2003 season. In the first three games Vince Young beat the Jags, barely lost to the 5-0 Colts and shined on Monday Night Football against Reggie Bush and his Saints, but that all came to a screeching halt on an unusually hot Sunday afternoon in LP Stadium. 

The Titans should have won this game with no problem, but instead it started with a fumble by White on Tennessee's opening drive, resulting in a fifty six- yard touchdown. The next blow would come in the form of Falcons Bailey intercepting a pass by Young  and setting up a thirty two- yard field goal.     

 It only got worse for Young when he was once again picked off allowing the Falcons to kick a field goal for their final score of the day. I am sure that Titans fans groaned again, when in the fourth quarter Vince Young threw his final interception. The offense was so bad in the game against Atlanta they could not even run out the clock during the final few minutes. It was left up to the defense to finish the game; advancing the Titans to a 20-13 Victory over the Atlanta Falcons.

In a game where the Titans offense never picked up more than two first downs on any drive, and no more than four or fewer plays in seven possessions, one has to question if Vince Young is nothing more than an unseasoned quarterback or a good quarterback who was having a tough day.

I would have to say that Vince has come a long way since the last time he threw three interceptions. The game was against Jacksonville last November and it cost the Titans a loss. When asked Sunday about matching his career high Young went on to say that he made bad decisions by trying to force the ball. Still if you think about it any great quarterback will at some point in their career try to force the ball and suffer an interception.  

To sum this up, I think that Vince Young should be considered the latter of the two. He showed that he has what it takes too win in his first season with the Titans. And now he has won three out the first four in this season. Coming off a bye week combined with ungodly heat, all seemed to attribute to Young's unusually sloppy performance on Sunday. And though the true test will come later this week on the road against Tampa Bay,it is my opinion that Vince Young will undoubtedly continue to get better with each passing game.

 

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UNSPORTSMANLIKE? YOU DECIDE....

Sunday was full of many surprises, but after watching the highlights of games around the league today, none were more shocking and disappointing then the Trent Green/ Travis Johnson incident. . . .

The Dolphins had the ball at the Texans 25 on Sunday when Green gave the ball to Ted Ginn Jr. The rookie fumbled, then picked the ball up and reversed field as the defense chased him.

Texans defensive tackle Travis Johnson hit Green in the head with his knee before Ginn was tackled by Anthony Weaver. After the play ended, Johnson stood over Green and taunted him, drawing a 15-yard penalty.

Johnson apologized to Houston coach Gary Kubiak during the game for the penalty. But Johnson was furious later, accusing Green of blocking him at the knees on purpose.

"The bottom line is, it was a malicious hit. It was uncalled for," Johnson said. "He's like the scarecrow. He wants to get courage while I wasn't looking, and hit me in my knee instead of trying to hit me in my head. God don't like ugly, you know what I mean?

"My knee ain't never hurt like it hurt today," Johnson said. "If you want to hit me, hit me in my head, hit me in my chest, don't hit me in my knee. I'm trying to eat just like everybody else. So, to hit me like that, that showed me what type of man he was."

Did Trent Green throw a low blow, (which BTW was legal)? Or did Johnson, to put it mildly, overreact?

In my opinion either way Travis Johnson made a fool of himself. To stand over a mans unconscious body and taunt him is beyond de####able, and just about one of the most unsportsmanlike like things I have ever seen on the Gridiron!   It will be very interesting to see if the League will penalize Johnson for his behavior. What do you think should happen to Johnson, if anything? Should Johnson face punishment from the League? Or should he walk away with just a 15 yard penalty?

Let me just close with this. . . . When a Human Being can stand over another and show no compassion what-so-ever, it begs the question, "What's Next?"

Info gathered from FOXSports.com. Pics from Yahoo Sports

 

I have always been an admirer of how football players adapt and make adjustments in how they play due to the elements. Man vs. Man vs. Nature. Can any one of us deny that games such as The Ice Bowl and others like it add purity to the game itself? I know that my favorite images of this game are men down on the line where their breath gives away the intensity of their emotions. So with this being said, who had the bright idea to dome the game? 

 

  I have always groaned at the notion of having to watch a game played in any dome. I think  that it robs so much from the players and the fans. Around the league there is a total of nine domes, two of them being retractable. Now I am sure that they were thought of by someone who thought more tickets could be sold if fans were not huddled up together freezing to death. Wrong! Give me an emotionally charged, close game and I will be nice and toasty! Ever since I can remember I have always enjoyed football from Peewee to High School, College and Pro Football more when the temp dips below forty degrees. A hot cup of coffee, or cocoa along with the smell of hot roasted peanuts all add to the atmosphere of the game.  

 As bad as domes are there is a worse danger lurking inside. That's right Artificial Turf can be a players worst nightmare. This freak of nature has been blamed for numerous injuries that could have been avoidable. I know for myself that "Turf Toe" sounds ridiculous, but is actually a painful injury that can sideline a player for up to three weeks or longer.   So why is this acceptable for a fourth of the stadiums in the league?

Only nine out of thirty-two teams play inside. I would think that teams who play in a Stadium as opposed to a Dome would have the advantage. Now sure you can bring up the Colts, but Payton Manning is the answer to your question. Do me a favor and think about this. . . out of all the domed teams, only Minnesota and Detroit can really say their winter weather is bad. On the other hand, winter months for teams like Green Bay, Buffalo, New England, Denver and Chicago are brutal and all played outside.  

 

In my opinion the only team that truly deserves a dome is the Cardinals, and man what a dome they have!  Not only do they have a retractable roof, but a retractable field allowing them to have real grass instead of turf. Dallas is also a team that allows the elements to affect their game, while letting their fans stay dry. Well at least until 2009 when their new stadium will open.  

 

 

 Look bottom line here is this. . . take a football, add some real men along with the unpredictability of the elements, mix them all together and you will achieve perfection!

Another glorious weekend is upon us Sports Fans! Week Three in the NFL and things for some are going to get tougher.  There are a lot of 2-0 teams out there, but that will all change Sunday. We will see who can find that elusive 3-0...

I am going to do something unusual for me...I am going to "Step out of the Pocket" and make my pics for Week Three. But here is what I am NOT going to do, I am NOT going make a pic in the Redskins vs. Giants game. Anyone who read my article about being "Superstitious" will understand why.If not then you can find my reasons there.

So let's get on to the task @ hand...

Pls. note my winning picks will be in red.

Arizona(1/1) at  Baltimore(1/1)-This is actually difficult to call being both teams are 1/1. Yes Baltimore is playing at home, but there are key injuries to McNair and Ogden. So I will be going with Edggerin James and his Cardinals.

Detroit(2/0) at  Philadelphia(0/2)-This one, I am sad to say is not difficult at all to call. I am going to go with the 2/0 Lions over the struggling Eagles.

Buffalo(0/2) at New England(2/0)- I think the Pats proved their point last week, and being this is the 0/2 Bills coming into Gillette Stadium, I am going with the Pats to advance to 3/0 this Sunday.

Indianapolis(2/0) at Houston(2/0)- My friends this is my UPSET pick of the week! I have said I believe Houston is the breakout team of the '07 Season and they have not let me down yet. Houston over Indy folks!

Minnesota(1/1) at Kansas City(0/2)- Believe me when I say that I am a bit shaky about this one, but I am picking KC @ home to redeem themselves in front of their fans!

Miami(0/2) at Jets(0/2)- I am going with Miami to win this over the Jets. True this is one of those "Someone has to win" games, but I think that Miami, having faced two NFC East 2/0 teams will find calmer seas against the Jets.

San Diego(1/1) at Green Bay(2/0)-This was a very easy decision. I mean come on Charger fans you have to know Farve has come back from the dead! I am going with Farve and his Pack to advance to 3/0!

St. Louis(0/2) at Tampa Bay(1/1)-I am going with the home team here. Being TB is coming off of beating the Saints I really think St. Louis will not be able to pull it off.

San Francisco(2/0) at Pittsburgh(2/0)-Both teams are 2/0, but I am giving the advantage to the Steelers due to the "Terrible Towels" giving them the edge at home!

Cincinnati (1/1) at Seattle (1/1)-Listen to me people! Cinci is going to beat Seattle at home even with the "Twelfth Man" screaming loudly! The Bengals Carson Palmer and Chad Johnson are going to make it another long dreary day in Seattle! 

Cleveland(1/1) at Oakland(0/2)- Will  QB Derek Anderson be able to go into Oakland and pull out another win? I really believe that he will! Being that he is still on a high with putting up 51 points last week. The Raiders will not be able to overcome.

Jacksonville (1/1) at Denver(2/0)- Hands down it is Denver. They have won two already so the Jags will not beat the Broncos at home!

Dallas(2/0) at Chicago(2/0)-I don't think the Cowboys are going to be able to pull this off. They have so far played two ineffective Defenses, and though Grossman is no Romo, I think the Bears Defense will put a lid on the Cowboys explosive Offense.

Carolina(1/1) at Atlanta(0/2)- We all know why! So I will just say the Panthers will advance to 2/1! 

MONDAY NIGHT -Tennessee(1/1) at New Orleans(0/2)- I am afraid that the beloved Saints will fall to 0/3 Monday Night. I am going to go with the Titans, unless Vince Young does something stupid again, but even still the Titans will advance to 2/1.

I will just sit back and wait for the boos, which I am sure will follow...

HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!

                                          
                                                  
            

I have always been curious to see if other people are as crazy as I am when it comes to sports and superstition. I have convinced my children and my Husband that if you make a BOLD comment about how well your team is going to do, you have to knock on wood at least three times. If I think they are going to say something like "We our going to beat so and so!" I will try to stop them as quickly as possible! My oldest son says I drive him crazy! But last season he decided to take the opposite route and NOT do any of the things he has done over the years. Well, I have to tell you that the Redskins had a horrible season last year, and don't think for one second that conversation was not the hot topic at the dinner table in the off season! He has changed his tune this year, and so far the 'Skins are 2-0! Now I have to knock on wood...hold on! Okay I am done.

Throughout the years I have gone through periods of time when if per chance I had something as trivial as a lighter in my hand, and my team scored I would not let go of it through any of the games. There was one point in time where I had a LARGE collection of Redskins lighters that I kept above my Television. Well my Aunt, who is both a Redskins and Cowboys fan (I know) walked off with my collection. I noticed immediately after she had left that they were missing. She thought it was funny, and so did I until I got them back! I swear to you that this happened in the mid 90's. From that moment I got them back the Redskins started not only going down hill, but also losing the Cowboy/Redskins match ups! She has never let me live that down. Oh, and she can claim to be a 'Skins fan all she wants, but she has since decided that the 'Boys come first. Guess what? We already knew that!

 

Here are some of the more "Out there" things I have done in my life...

1-I have stood on one foot through a whole quarter. I was leaning up against the wall just in case you were wondering how I stayed up that long.

2- I have watched a game upside down. I had a massive headache afterwards!

3- I have a Redskins Blanket that has to be on top of my couch before every game, and if someone sits on it...they are ejected from the room!

4-Everyone has assigned jerseys, clothes, hats, etc. And if I see we are losing! We will swap until things change.

5-My Mom, who is as bad as I am, calls me before every game. We are not allowed to call each other until the game is over! We are not allowed to watch a game together. I think you can see where I get this from.

6- Just tonight I sang "Hail to the Redskins" every time the Offense was on the field. It is not the first time, and it will not be the last.

7- I have many more, but I will just  go a head and give the last one...Back in the 05' season I had to go out and pick my youngest son up in the middle of the game. It was around the third game of the season. Well , while I was out, I turned Sonny and Sam on the radio and the game turned around completely. For the rest of the regular season I would get in my Explorer about half time,listen to Sonny and Sam's radio show for the play by play, make my youngest go with me, and I would drive the exact same roads until the game was over. We made it to the playoffs that season! Too bad I stopped maybe we could have made it to the Super Bowl!

Now I know that probably all of you are thinking the same thing. This chic is off her rocker! Truthfully, I am about one of the most sane, and logical people you will ever meet! But something happens to me in early September. I change completely! Almost like a werewolf with the moon. I have actually had co workers say it is the craziest thing they have ever seen. They say I am business all week long, but when Friday rolls around my mind shifts gears! What can I say? I am a FANATIC! When you love something like that you lose all rational thought!

I do know that what I do is only to make me feel like I am an actual part of the team. It is just another way to show my passionate love for the Redskins. But sometimes I swear to you it really seems like it works! I know, I know...

Now I want to hear some of the craziest things you have done. What are your superstitions? Because I know I am not the only one out here that has done some crazy things! So let's hear it people...inquiring minds want to know!