NFL Football 2006-2007

[UglyNakedGuy]

He'll be off the board really early. I have to imagine Quinn, Peterson, and Johnson will be considered for the first pick depending on what your team needs. If it's the Titans it'll be Johnson. The Raiders would probably draft Quinn.

I hope not. I'm a big Quinn fan and I love Johnson, I hope they go to better organizations. I hope Johnson goes somewhere with a good QB, and no Young does not fit that criteria IMO. And I hate the Raiders and their entire unclassy organization, and hope Quinn doesn't go there.

[UglyNakedGuy]

We'll both agree that Holmes was the best reciever available. I'm still waiting on that guy to show up in Pittsburgh.

Isn't Moss hurt?

Did you agree me earlier that Jackson was the better reciever, and he was available.

[thebigv]

God damn, I hope Quinn doesn't end up in Oakland. There'd be no hope for him on that team.

[dmbmuskie]

I hope not. I'm a big Quinn fan and I love Johnson, I hope they go to better organizations. I hope Johnson goes somewhere with a good QB, and no Young does not fit that criteria IMO. And I hate the Raiders and their entire unclassy organization, and hope Quinn doesn't go there.

They're going to be the worst teams at the end of the year, so I have to figure they're headed there. I figure Peterson lands in Green Bay 3rd overall.

[dmbmuskie]

Did you agree me earlier that Jackson was the better reciever, and he was available.

Not at all. Jackson didn't do much in college when compared to Holmes. Jackson's size and slightly better 40 time didn't make up for his lack of football ability in my book.

[dmbmuskie]

With all this reciever talk, what about Justin Gatlin? Could he play in the NFL or does his track and field suspension have some effect on his NFL elgibilty. There were some whispers of him wanting to play this spring.

[thebigv]

Maybe in Philly. They seem to love the idea of giving anyone a chance to play WR. Man do I miss Fredex.

[dmbmuskie]

Maybe in Philly. They seem to love the idea of giving anyone a chance to play WR. Man do I miss Fredex.

I'm surprised he's not in the league somewhere. He cannot be worse than some of the guys on NFL rosters.

[thebigv]

His attitude is absolutely atrocious. TO, Porter, and the likes can get away with it because they have sickening talent. Fredex was a big talker who had big games when they focused on McNabb and TO. But, you're right...if he's in shape he should be playing somewhere.

[dmbmuskie]

His attitude is absolutely atrocious. TO, Porter, and the likes can get away with it because they have sickening talent. Fredex was a big talker who had big games when they focused on McNabb and TO. But, you're right...if he's in shape he should be playing somewhere.

You'd think at some point he's shut his mouth and just play football. We've probably seen the last of him.

[thebigv]

You'd think at some point he's shut his mouth and just play football. We've probably seen the last of him.


Some people just don't like paychecks that are 100x the size of mine. Seriously, I shut my mouth when my boss is wrong, why can't they do the same and collect millions of dollars in the process?

[SteelerMan]

If Jamarcus Russell leaves LSU after this season (a lot of people think he might), I wouldn't be surprised if he went ahead of Quinn. I'm not saying I think he's better right now, but I can see a lot of teams projecting him to be a better NFL QB than Quinn.

[thebigv]

Huh? Based on what?

[dmbmuskie]

I cannot see that. First, I cannot see him leaving. Second, Quinn is almost too good to be true coming into the pros. He's basically everything you could want in a franchise QB. Sure, he could flop, but he's an amazing QB prospect.

I couldn't believe they were talking the other night during the Iowa game that Troy Smith could go ahead of Quinn.

[dmbmuskie]

Haynesworth got 5 games, which is about what I expected.

[SteelerMan]

Huh? Based on what?

Size and arm strength. Like I said, I don't think he'll go ahead of Quinn, but I can see some teams ranking him ahead of Quinn. Remember, some teams had Cutler ahead of Leinart and Young last year.

[thebigv]

The only QB who had a chance of going before Quinn was Tate, but he's been exposed to his true colors this year. Quinn has been mighty shaky this year, but his late game performances can NOT be taught. The same with Troy Smith, he has incredible intangibles but is too small to project himself in front of Quinn. Even if he does win a NC and Heisman. I think he has great potential as a skill position player in the NFL, just not as a QB.

[UNC41]

I hope not. I'm a big Quinn fan and I love Johnson, I hope they go to better organizations. I hope Johnson goes somewhere with a good QB,and no Young does not fit that criteria IMO. And I hate the Raiders and their entire unclassy organization, and hope Quinn doesn't go there.

But with Young and Johnson on the same team, Tennesee would be set at WR for the next decade.

[dmbmuskie]

What about Brohm? I say he has way too many injury concerns at this point.

Russel could get VY like hype, but he'll have to come back to school to get it. He's just becoming the clear cut starter on his own team.

[dmbmuskie]

But with Young and Johnson on the same team, Tennesee would be set at WR for the next decade.

:lol

[SteelerMan]

What about Brohm? I say he has way too many injury concerns at this point.

Russel could get VY like hype, but he'll have to come back to school to get it. He's just becoming the clear cut starter on his own team.

That's crazy... I was just about to mention Brohm. If he hadn't gotten injured, I think he could've been a top pick (maybe even ahead of Quinn). Now I think he'll have to come back for next season though.

[thebigv]

What about Brohm? I say he has way too many injury concerns at this point.

Russel could get VY like hype, but he'll have to come back to school to get it. He's just becoming the clear cut starter on his own team.


I don't see Russell getting anything close to VY hype. He's got worse rushing stats than Quinn does. His size certainly will help him in the next level but Quinn has a cannon as well. Brohm will end up being a very good pick for someone when he gets himself healthy and starts carrying a rabbit's foot with him during games. I just don't see any QB coming in and being picked before Quinn at this point. Anyone who takes a QB next year is going to need him to start ASAP and he's farther along than anyone else in CFB right now.

[Trippin4136]

Haynesworth only got 5 games? That's ridiculous. I stand by my opinion that he should have been suspended for the season.

[dmbmuskie]

It's a huge NFL suspension. It's 1/3 of the season, and 3 games longer than any other on field suspension in NFL history.

[SteelerMan]

I don't see Russell getting anything close to VY hype. He's got worse rushing stats than Quinn does. His size certainly will help him in the next level but Quinn has a cannon as well. Brohm will end up being a very good pick for someone when he gets himself healthy and starts carrying a rabbit's foot with him during games. I just don't see any QB coming in and being picked before Quinn at this point. Anyone who takes a QB next year is going to need him to start ASAP and he's farther along than anyone else in CFB right now.

I agree with you, but I think Russell has a stronger arm than Quinn. Since he was a freshman, he has reminded me of Daunte Culpepper... which isn't really a good thing. He has the size, the strength, and the cannon, but his decision making is pretty weak.

[thebigv]

I agree with you, but I think Russell has a stronger arm than Quinn. Since he was a freshman, he has reminded me of Daunte Culpepper... which isn't really a good thing. He has the size, the strength, and the cannon, but his decision making is pretty weak.

:lol Poor Daunte Culpepper. He turned into a big bag of dicks real quickly, huh?

Russell probably does have a stronger arm than Quinn. Quinn has very good pocket presence and consistently bails out his OL by sidestepping diving D-Lineman. It'll be interesting to see how this pocket mobility will help him in the NFL. Quinn has also been playing since he was a freshman, and was always getting abused by Willingham's torturous playcalling. Weis has been reason #1 that he's become such a great NFL prospect. Otherwise it'd all be 'potential' instead of skill at this point.

[dmbmuskie]

:lol Poor Daunte Culpepper. He turned into a big bag of dicks real quickly, huh?

Russell probably does have a stronger arm than Quinn. Quinn has very good pocket presence and consistently bails out his OL by sidestepping diving D-Lineman. It'll be interesting to see how this pocket mobility will help him in the NFL. Quinn has also been playing since he was a freshman, and was always getting abused by Willingham's torturous playcalling. Weis has been reason #1 that he's become such a great NFL prospect. Otherwise it'd all be 'potential' instead of skill at this point.

I think Weis has helped, but I think a lot of it is the natural maturing process. Regardless, he's a stud.

[UglyNakedGuy]

Size and arm strength. Like I said, I don't think he'll go ahead of Quinn, but I can see some teams ranking him ahead of Quinn. Remember, some teams had Cutler ahead of Leinart and Young last year.

Russell is 6-6, 236 and Quinn is 6-4 231..

Russel only has 2 inches on him, but 6-4 is just right for a QB IMO. And Quinn is bigger for his height than Russell is for his height.

Quinn is by far the better NFL prospect.

[UglyNakedGuy]

But with Young and Johnson on the same team, Tennesee would be set at WR for the next decade.

Sure they would under their own eyes. But IMO, Young is insanely over rated. And what I meant by what I said, is I would like Johnson to go somewhere with a QB where he could flourish. I jt don't think Young is all that. He is just hype, like Vick is. And Young was the first QB taken last year, but Cutler and Leinart will have far more successful careers IMO. I would like to see him Johnson go to SF more than I would want to see him go to TN.

[UglyNakedGuy]

Haynesworth only got 5 games? That's ridiculous. I stand by my opinion that he should have been suspended for the season.

I agree. Odell Thurman gets suspended for a year for drinking too much, and Haynesworth gets 4 games for essentially trying to hurt someone very badly.

Chris Collinsworth said he shoulda been arrested on the field because he essentially could have killed the player if he hit his head just right or did it a bit harder, and that is scary. I think he should be suspended for the year, and if I were the other player I would seriosuly think about pressing charges against this idiot.

[saygdbye4134]

i lost alot of respect for the NFL today.


5 games?


i think it should be one game for every stitch that guy needed.


absolute bullshit.

[dmbmuskie]

I agree. Odell Thurman gets suspended for a year for drinking too much, and Haynesworth gets 4 games for essentially trying to hurt someone very badly.

Chris Collinsworth said he shoulda been arrested on the field because he essentially could have killed the player if he hit his head just right or did it a bit harder, and that is scary. I think he should be suspended for the year, and if I were the other player I would seriosuly think about pressing charges against this idiot.

It's a violent game. I actually think 5 games is a bit much.

I cannot see much happening to him in court.

[UglyNakedGuy]

It's a violent game. I actually think 5 games is a bit much.

I cannot see much happening to him in court.

Yeah, cause normally guys stand over other guys and step on their face with the intent to hurt them. That's especially why no one has EVER SEEN THIS HAPPEN before. Don't give me 'it's a violent game' shit. That excuse is only valid for hard hits and whatnot, but not for this.

[SteelerMan]

I agree. Odell Thurman gets suspended for a year for drinking too much, and Haynesworth gets 4 games for essentially trying to hurt someone very badly.

No, he didn't get suspended for "drinking too much". He was arrested for a DWI while he was already serving a four game suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. There's a difference between drinking too much and getting arrested for a DWI.

[dmbmuskie]

Yeah, cause normally guys stand over other guys and step on their face with the intent to hurt them. That's especially why no one has EVER SEEN THIS HAPPEN before. Don't give me 'it's a violent game' shit. That excuse is only valid for hard hits and whatnot, but not for this.

This isn't like when Bertuzzi hammered the guy with his stick. It's not even as bad as a pitcher trying to hit someone with a 90 mph fastball. I don't get why everyone wants to hang this guy.

[UglyNakedGuy]

This isn't like when Bertuzzi hammered the guy with his stick. It's not even as bad as a pitcher trying to hit someone with a 90 mph fastball. I don't get why everyone wants to hang this guy.

He viciously tried to hurt him not once but TWICE. And yeah you can compare it to a pitcher beaning someone in the back...My God. :rolleyes:rolleyes

[dmbmuskie]

He viciously tried to hurt him not once but TWICE. And yeah you can compare it to a pitcher beaning someone in the back...My God. :rolleyes:rolleyes

You viciously try to hurt someone every play. Sure, this was uncalled for, but I've seen much worse happen on the football field, legal and illegal. Have you ever seen the highlight of Terry Bradshaw getting his neck broke? What about McMahon getting slammed in 1986. Warren Sapp laying out Chad Clifton. I could go on and on. I just do not get why we get all out of shape when something like this happens.

[Trippin4136]

This isn't like when Bertuzzi hammered the guy with his stick. It's not even as bad as a pitcher trying to hit someone with a 90 mph fastball. I don't get why everyone wants to hang this guy.

Actually I think it is a good comparison. Bertuzzi used his stick as a weapon. Haynesworth used his spikes as a weapon. These aren't your little brother's soccer cleats they're out there playing with. These spikes are 1/2 inches pieces of metal that will tear through flesh when used in that fashion.

It wasn't a hard or nasty play in the flow of the game. It was a thought out maneuver after played had ended. Did it more than double the largest suspension bases on something on the field, yes? But this isn't exactly hitting a guy below the knee or hitting a QB too high.

If someone did this to another individual on the street, it would be assault. But since it's between the lines, its "part of the game". Bull. Haynesworth should be gone for the season.

[dmbmuskie]

I'm not going to win the argument about this not being that bad, so I'm going to stop.

[Trippin4136]

not arguing man, just sharing opinions.

[dmbmuskie]

I know. I'm not saying I condone kicking someone in the face or anything like that. I think what he did was wrong and he needed to be punished. I think it has just got to the point where stuff doesn't surprise me anymore.

[UglyNakedGuy]

Actually I think it is a good comparison. Bertuzzi used his stick as a weapon. Haynesworth used his spikes as a weapon. These aren't your little brother's soccer cleats they're out there playing with. These spikes are 1/2 inches pieces of metal that will tear through flesh when used in that fashion.

It wasn't a hard or nasty play in the flow of the game. It was a thought out maneuver after played had ended. Did it more than double the largest suspension bases on something on the field, yes? But this isn't exactly hitting a guy below the knee or hitting a QB too high.

If someone did this to another individual on the street, it would be assault. But since it's between the lines, its "part of the game". Bull. Haynesworth should be gone for the season.

:thumbsup For once, we agree. :lol

[UNC41]

Sure they would under their own eyes. But IMO, Young is insanely over rated. And what I meant by what I said, is I would like Johnson to go somewhere with a QB where he could flourish. I jt don't think Young is all that. He is just hype, like Vick is. And Young was the first QB taken last year, but Cutler and Leinart will have far more successful careers IMO. I would like to see him Johnson go to SF more than I would want to see him go to TN.

You totally missed me agreeing with you and also missed the punchline of Young being a better WR than he will QB.

[UglyNakedGuy]

You totally missed me agreeing with you and also missed the punchline of Young being a better WR than he will QB.

Ok..

[thebigv]

also missed the punchline of Young being a better WR than he will QB.


Ahh!! Haha, I get it now. :BANG I'm retarded.

[Tiduwho]

Favre still inching closer to Blanda...

[Tiduwho]

Well, the Packers had a good 2 and a half quarters.

[Tiduwho]

This is getting painful to watch. Poor Brett.

[collinsat12]

If only Favre was as good as Brad Johnson...

[dmbmuskie]

If I were Favre I'd demand a trade to Tampa tommorrow morning.

[Trippin4136]

If I were Favre I'd demand a trade to Tampa tommorrow morning.

Why? You saw what happened to Simms behind that line.

[thebigv]

Imagine the beauty of having Favre throw into triple coverage down by 3 touchdowns in TAMPA! The weather is much better on an old man's joints.

[Tiduwho]

Philly was my sub for Atlanta if they beat GB last night, so looks like I win.

ESPN

1. Bearss
2. Colts
3. Ravens
4. Eagles
5. Pats

[UglyNakedGuy]

Philly was my sub for Atlanta if they beat GB last night, so looks like I win.

ESPN

1. Bearss
2. Colts
3. Ravens
4. Eagles
5. Pats

That's the most accurate top 5 I have seen in this thread. Everyone elses seems to be completely ridiculous.

I wouldn't put them in that order though. The only one in order I agree with is the Bears.

[Tiduwho]

That's the most accurate top 5 I have seen in this thread. Everyone elses seems to be completely ridiculous.

I wouldn't put them in that order though. The only one in order I agree with is the Bears.

:multi

[Tiduwho]

The more I see Keyshawn give Deshaun Foster that forearm shiver to the back of the neck, the funnier it becomes. It's even better that he finished him off with a push with his other hand. :lol

[xBigNastyx]

The more I see Keyshawn give Deshaun Foster that forearm shiver to the back of the neck, the funnier it becomes. It's even better that he finished him off with a push with his other hand. :lol

Oh I saw that, it was pretty funny!

[xBigNastyx]

Since everyone is making their top 5 picks, I'll do mine

1. Bears
2. Patriots :D
3. Colts
4. Ravens
5. Eagles


I hope I'm not forgetting someone.

I expect The Steelers and Carolina to be on this list later on this season.

[dmbmuskie]

Since everyone is making their top 5 picks, I'll do mine

1. Bears
2. Patriots :D
3. Colts
4. Ravens
5. Eagles


I hope I'm not forgetting someone.

I expect The Steelers and Carolina to be on this list later on this season.

Yeah at the end of the year I'd expect it to look like this.

1. Colts 13-3
2. Bears 14-2
3. Patriots 12-4
4. Panthers 12-4
5. Steelers 11-5

[Trippin4136]

The more I see Keyshawn give Deshaun Foster that forearm shiver to the back of the neck, the funnier it becomes. It's even better that he finished him off with a push with his other hand. :lol

They had a great yuckfest on NFL Live about it last night. I hadn't seen that highlight until then, but it was hilarious. Nothing like getting blasted by your teammate after scoring.

[41ravens]

amen, scoop. amen.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=jackson/061003&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab4pos2

[xBigNastyx]

Yeah at the end of the year I'd expect it to look like this.

1. Colts 13-3
2. Bears 14-2
3. Patriots 12-4
4. Panthers 12-4
5. Steelers 11-5

I agree about the list, and the order for the most part. But I don't think the Colts are the best team in the NFL, and I don't think they will be at any point this year. However, I guess by the end of the year, the Colts, Bears, and Pats could be interchangable in the 3 best teams. Meaning as long as they are ranked as the top 3, it doesn't matter what order they are in. Does that make sense?

[SteelerMan]

I swear... every week, it's like there's a new overrated team that everyone is jumping all over. Last week it was the Bengals, this week it's the Patriots. This is the main reason I don't pay attention to "power rankings" or listen to analysts... they can do a complete 180 from one week to the next, and it's deemed acceptable. Last week, the Bengals "had matured" and were "Super Bowl contenders"... this week, they apparently "had everybody fooled" and "don't look good at all". People also have VERY short memories when rating teams. I mean, the Patriots are the 2nd best team in the league??? Has everyone forgotten about how they barely squeaked past Buffalo, or how horrible Denver made them look?

[xBigNastyx]

I swear... every week, it's like there's a new overrated team that everyone is jumping all over. Last week it was the Bengals, this week it's the Patriots. This is the main reason I don't pay attention to "power rankings" or listen to analysts... they can do a complete 180 from one week to the next, and it's deemed acceptable. Last week, the Bengals "had matured" and were "Super Bowl contenders"... this week, they apparently "had everybody fooled" and "don't look good at all". People also have VERY short memories when rating teams. I mean, the Patriots are the 2nd best team in the league??? Has everyone forgotten about how they barely squeaked past Buffalo, or how horrible Denver made them look?

Those were early games though. Things begin to get sorted out now. The Patriots are a top 3 team, and if they don't struggle against Miami, then not many will be able to argue. I agree with Muskie that the top 5 teams at the end of the year will be Bears, Colts, Patriots, Steelers, Panthers.


And the funny thing is, those are the 5 teams I expected to be in the top 5 before the year even started.

And I disagree with your idea of the most over rated team. I think the Falcons are the most over rated.

[SteelerMan]

Those were early games though. Things begin to get sorted out now. The Patriots are a top 3 team, and if they don't struggle against Miami, then not many will be able to argue. I agree with Muskie that the top 5 teams at the end of the year will be Bears, Colts, Patriots, Steelers, Panthers.


And the funny thing is, those are the 5 teams I expected to be in the top 5 before the year even started.

And I disagree with your idea of the most over rated team. I think the Falcons are the most over rated.

"Early games"? :lol The Broncos game was 10 days ago! And beating the Dolphins will prove that the Patriots are a Top 3 team? How is that? I didn't say the Patriots were the "most overrated"... I just think people are, as usual, overemphasizing the meaning of one game. I'd agree with you that the Falcons are more overrated than the Patriots.

[xBigNastyx]

"Early games"? :lol The Broncos game was 10 days ago! And beating the Dolphins will prove that the Patriots are a Top 3 team? How is that? I didn't say the Patriots were the "most overrated"... I just think people are, as usual, overemphasizing the meaning of one game. I'd agree with you that the Falcons are more overrated than the Patriots.

Yeah it was an early game. Week 3 is considered early in the season to me, not sure about you. The Pats found themselves against the Bengals IMO, and you should expect them to keep playing well. Their games against Buffalo, second half agaisnt NYJ, and Denver didn't represent their team completely IMO. And if they play the way they did last week and crush the Dolphins, YES it will insert them as a legit top 3 team. They are already in the top 5.

[SteelerMan]

Yeah it was an early game. Week 3 is considered early in the season to me, not sure about you. The Pats found themselves against the Bengals IMO, and you should expect them to keep playing well. Their games against Buffalo, second half agaisnt NYJ, and Denver didn't represent their team completely IMO. And if they play the way they did last week and crush the Dolphins, YES it will insert them as a legit top 3 team. They are already in the top 5.

Your logic is so flawed that I don't feel like taking the time to argue with it.

[xBigNastyx]

Your logic is so flawed that I don't feel like taking the time to argue with it.

Yeah my OPINION must be wrong.

[xBigNastyx]

Your logic is so flawed that I don't feel like taking the time to argue with it.

Then please stop trying to tell me that my opinion is wrong and flawed. Opinions are just that, opinions, and I respect yours, so try to respect mine. IMO, the Pats are a top 3 team. If you disagree, you disagree, there is no right or wrong, just try not to be such a dick about it man.

Anywho, how do you think Pittsburgh will do against SD, and do you think Ben will play well for a change?

[SteelerMan]

Yeah my OPINION must be wrong.

:lol

I never said you were "wrong"... I said your logic was flawed. Week 3 is less meaningful than Week 4 because it was "an early game"? Beating a last place 1-3 team proves you're a Top 3 team? We should judge a team based only on their most recent game? In that case, I guess Charlie Frye is the new Joe Montana and the Browns are marching toward the playoffs.

[SteelerMan]

Then please stop trying to tell me that my opinion is wrong and flawed. Opinions are just that, opinions, and I respect yours, so try to respect mine. IMO, the Pats are a top 3 team. If you disagree, you disagree, there is no right or wrong, just try not to be such a dick about it man.

Anywho, how do you think Pittsburgh will do against SD, and do you think Ben will play well for a change?

Again, I never said your opinion was wrong... your support for your opinion didn't make any sense, and that's what I was pointing out. If you think the Patriots are a Top 5 team, that's fine. But your reasons just weren't very good ones.

[xBigNastyx]

Again, I never said your opinion was wrong... your support for your opinion didn't make any sense, and that's what I was pointing out. If you think the Patriots are a Top 5 team, that's fine. But your reasons just weren't very good ones.

Well, that I could understand, I had trouble putting my thoughts into words there, so maybe it didn't make much sense.

[xBigNastyx]

:lol

I never said you were "wrong"... I said your logic was flawed. Week 3 is less meaningful than Week 4 because it was "an early game"? Beating a last place 1-3 team proves you're a Top 3 team? We should judge a team based only on their most recent game? In that case, I guess Charlie Frye is the new Joe Montana and the Browns are marching toward the playoffs.

And this was not my logic, and this is nothing close to what I said. I guess I just didn't make my opinion clear so nevermind.

[RJ2kWJ]

I wonder if the superchargers are comin out in the powder blue's this weekend? My favorite uni's in the league by far.

I am amped for the NFC East games this weekend. Huge game for my Skins and a huge game for the T.O. return to Philly. Who the HELL do I root for in that game? :lol

[lmaciolek]

I wonder if the superchargers are comin out in the powder blue's this weekend? My favorite jerseys in the league by far.

I am amped for the NFC East games this weekend. Huge game for my Skins and a huge game for the T.O. return to Philly. Who the HELL do I root for in that game? :lol

Just as long as they beat the Squeelers!

[SteelerMan]

And this was not my logic, and this is nothing close to what I said. I guess I just didn't make my opinion clear so nevermind.

Eh, don't worry about it. It's cool. To answer your question, I'm not too confident about the Steelers beating the Chargers. Merriman and the Chargers pass rush is scary, and with Ben already not playing well, it could be a long evening for him. I think our defense could end up being the difference though. Rivers played reasonably well against the Ravens D (which is comparable to the Steelers, although I still think we're better), but given the fact that this is still only his 4th game as a starter, I think Dick Lebeau is going to do everything he can to confuse him and force him to commit one or two costly turnovers. I expect it to be a very close game with one team winning by a field goal.

[xBigNastyx]

Eh, don't worry about it. It's cool. To answer your question, I'm not too confident about the Steelers beating the Chargers. Merriman and the Chargers pass rush is scary, and with Ben already not playing well, it could be a long evening for him. I think our defense could end up being the difference though. Rivers played reasonably well against the Ravens D (which is comparable to the Steelers, although I still think we're better), but given the fact that this is still only his 4th game as a starter, I think Dick Lebeau is going to do everything he can to confuse him and force him to commit one or two costly turnovers. I expect it to be a very close game with one team winning by a field goal.

I agree with most of what you said, but the Pittsburgh D better than Baltimore D? I dono about that! Pittsburgh D is fantastic, but Chicago and Baltimore are on their own level IMO.

[dmbmuskie]

Eh, don't worry about it. It's cool. To answer your question, I'm not too confident about the Steelers beating the Chargers. Merriman and the Chargers pass rush is scary, and with Ben already not playing well, it could be a long evening for him. I think our defense could end up being the difference though. Rivers played reasonably well against the Ravens D (which is comparable to the Steelers, although I still think we're better), but given the fact that this is still only his 4th game as a starter, I think Dick Lebeau is going to do everything he can to confuse him and force him to commit one or two costly turnovers. I expect it to be a very close game with one team winning by a field goal.

We almost played this same game last year. Prime Time in San Diego following up a game where we beat ourselves and Ben played bad. Obviously Ben played worse and we made more mistakes against Cincy this year than New England last year, but it's still a very similar feel to the game.

I think we win because we have to. 1-3 is a whole world away from 2-2. I also think we win because Phillip Rivers head is going to be spinning with all the shit he is going to see.

[dmbmuskie]

I agree with most of what you said, but the Pittsburgh D better than Baltimore D? I dono about that! Pittsburgh D is fantastic, but Chicago and Baltimore are on their own level IMO.

I know I'm partial to the Steelers, but I think they're the best.

The Ravens live on reputation. They're far removed from their Super Bowl team.

I don't see how anyone can rank the Bears number 1 after the playoffs last year where they got destroyed.

I'll break it down a little furter.

D-Line
1. Steelers- Casey Hampton is the best at his position. Aaron Smith only trails Richard Seymour as a 3-4 end. Keisel provides a down lineman rush like they haven't had in a while.

2. Bear - It's real close here. Tommy Harris could push them over the top by the end of the year.

3. Ravens - Suggs and Gregg are undersized. Ngata hasn't proven anything. Pryce is getting some miles on him at this point.

Linebackers.

1. Steelers - Porter, Farrior, and Haggans could all make the Pro-Bowl, and Foote is the leading tackler on the team.

2. Bears - Urlacher and Briggs are better than Lewis and Scott.

3. Ravens - See above.

Secondary.

1. Ravens - The most talented secondary in the league, maybe ever. How the hell do they have an undrafted FA rookie playing safety.

2. Steelers - Polamalu is the most versatile defender in the league, and probably the best safety. Ike Taylor is an emerging star, just ask Chad Johnson. Townsend is like a coach on the field. The jury is still out on Ryan Clark. McFadden might be the best nickle back in football.

3. The safety situation is unsettled. The corners are young. Brown is good, but not in the caliber of Reed or Polamalu.

These are just opinions, and I hope I don't start a firefight.

[xBigNastyx]

Very well thought out and great read man. Appreciate it. And now that you put it that way, I think I almost agree with you as far as defense in "real life". People's opinions (I admit this as well) get skewed on defenses frmo fantasy, because defenses that are fantastic in real life, and a good example is Jacksonville. They are great, but don't get much fantasy points, so some might not think as highly as them. And Baltimore and Chicago get by far the most points, so it's easy to assume they are the best. Know what I mean? But when you put it that way, it's interesting to think about. :thumbsup

[dmbmuskie]

Very well thought out and great read man. Appreciate it. And now that you put it that way, I think I almost agree with you as far as defense in "real life". People's opinions (I admit this as well) get skewed on defenses frmo fantasy, because defenses that are fantastic in real life, and a good example is Jacksonville. They are great, but don't get much fantasy points, so some might not think as highly as them. And Baltimore and Chicago get by far the most points, so it's easy to assume they are the best. Know what I mean? But when you put it that way, it's interesting to think about. :thumbsup

Fantasy football is ruining logical thinking about football. It makes the game about stats rather than stats in the context of the game.

[xBigNastyx]

Fantasy football is ruining logical thinking about football. It makes the game about stats rather than stats in the context of the game.

I agree. I try to keep a fair balance.

For example, Jeff Wilkins is rated as the best kicker currently in fantasy, and he wouldn't even be in my top 5 if I had to tell you the 5 best kickers. You have to take that stuff with a grain of salt IMO.

Again, thanks for the read, and feel free to elaborate on other things as well in that manner. :thumbsup

[dmbmuskie]

Who's your team man?

[xBigNastyx]

Who's your team man?

Patriots. I hope we meet with you guys in the playoffs this year, NE/Pittsburgh games are always GREAT games to watch!

[dmbmuskie]

Patriots. I hope we meet with you guys in the playoffs this year, NE/Pittsburgh games are always GREAT games to watch!

Yeah, I hate the Pats whenever we play them. I still cannot Randle El lateralled that damn ball last year.

The Pats defense is nothing to laugh at. You guys have the best DL in football.

[xBigNastyx]

Yeah, I hate the Pats whenever we play them. I still cannot Randle El lateralled that damn ball last year.

The Pats defense is nothing to laugh at. You guys have the best DL in football.

Yeah they are playing pretty well this year so far. We opened up last week against Cincy in a 4-2 which was interesting, with Poteat at nickle.

[dmbmuskie]

Yeah they are playing pretty well this year so far. We opened up last week against Cincy in a 4-2 which was interesting, with Poteat at nickle.

Was it a real 4-2 or was it a 2-4 with Colvin playing down? I didn't really start paying attention to the game until the 2nd half for some reason.

[thebigv]

These are just opinions, and I hope I don't start a firefight.

By omitting the Browns, I'll assume you meant to put them at the 4 spot in all those rankings. :D

[dmbmuskie]

By omitting the Browns, I'll assume you meant to put them at the 4 spot in all those rankings. :D

:thumbsup Yes, the Browns are in the 4 spot in all catagories.










:lol In the AFC North.

[thebigv]

Charlie Frye is tied for the most touchdowns in the AFC. ;)

[Tiduwho]

The Bears have held their last 9 opponents at Soldier Field under 10 points. Today will be no different methinks. It's my birthday! If they lost I might just have to drink myself into a hole...

[Rob]

You know, Bellicheck gets alot of free passes for his defensive brilliance, but now for the fourth or fifth time this year he's called a run on a third and long in the red zone and, predictably, had to settle for a field goal. Nothing pisses me off more than a 5 yard playcall in the redzone when you need 8 yards, and it's turning into a pattern of at least once a game.

[xBigNastyx]

You know, Bellicheck gets alot of free passes for his defensive brilliance, but now for the fourth or fifth time this year he's called a run on a third and long in the red zone and, predictably, had to settle for a field goal. Nothing pisses me off more than a 5 yard playcall in the redzone when you need 8 yards, and it's turning into a pattern of at least once a game.

Belichick.

[Tiduwho]

Still 8 minutes left in the 2nd quarter, and this game is over. The Bills defense? Lol @ anyone that said they were good. The Bears have scored on every possession and are running AT WILL. Both Jones and Benson are getting like 6 yards a carry.


What a good b-day present.

[AFurth]

Still 8 minutes left in the 2nd quarter, and this game is over. The Bills defense? Lol @ anyone that said they were good. The Bears have scored on every possession and are running AT WILL. Both Jones and Benson are getting like 6 yards a carry.


What a good b-day present.


happy birthday.

bear down chicago bears.

[Tiduwho]

happy birthday.

bear down chicago bears.


Thanks man, 21! Last night was great.

This is even better. ANOTHER TD. I have NEVER in my life seen a QB like this in a Bears uniform. He can thread the needle through 3 guys like Brett Favre (not that I'm THAT guy, just saying he can thread the needle). Unbelievable.


What did I tell you guys? SEX-Y REX-Y!!!!

[AFurth]

Thanks man, 21! Last night was great.

This is even better. ANOTHER TD. I have NEVER in my life seen a QB like this in a Bears uniform. He can thread the needle through 3 guys like Brett Favre (not that I'm THAT guy, just saying he can thread the needle). Unbelievable.


What did I tell you guys? SEX-Y REX-Y!!!!

i picked him up for fantasy in week 2. i started him for the first time this week.

i look like a genius :).

WOW - as I type this 27-0.

domination.

[Rob]

What the flying fuck playcall was that? Fuck off Belicheck. Fuck off long, and fuck off hard. Jesus fucking christ that was pathetic. Become a defensive coordinator and throw the fucking offensive book away.

[Tiduwho]

What the flying fuck playcall was that? Fuck off Belicheck. Fuck off long, and fuck off hard. Jesus fucking christ that was pathetic. Become a defensive coordinator and throw the fucking offensive book away.


I've been waiting for Pats fans to turn on Belichek for three years. I can't tell you how much joy I take in reading that post of yours.

I can't wait for week 12. Gonna be a great game. :hug

[Rob]

No, it's not. The Pats will be on full autopilot at that point since the AFC East sucks ass. I fully expect the Bears to destroy them.

[xBigNastyx]

What the flying fuck playcall was that? Fuck off Belicheck. Fuck off long, and fuck off hard. Jesus fucking christ that was pathetic. Become a defensive coordinator and throw the fucking offensive book away.

Oh shutup.


And learn how to spell his name.

[Rob]

Go fuck yourself. All you can "contribute" is a spell-check on one name? Eat shit. Contribute something worthwhile. It's fucks like you that make it impossible to have any type of sports discussion.

[dre2142]

Ive been playing Rex since the beginning.....in place of Big Ben. Everyone thought I was crazy.....

[Rob]

Wow. Has Saban ever done anything right with that flag?

[AFurth]

Ive been playing Rex since the beginning.....in place of Big Ben. Everyone thought I was crazy.....

I picked him up after reading his stats from the detroit and green bay games.

I've been waiting for a letdown, but after watching him perservere against the vikes and be a winner and systematically destroy the seahawks, i knew i needed to start him.

[AFurth]

only problem with grossman

he only plays 3 quarters - game's over by then haha

[xBigNastyx]

Go fuck yourself. All you can "contribute" is a spell-check on one name? Eat shit. Contribute something worthwhile. It's fucks like you that make it impossible to have any type of sports discussion.


You think you have inteligent discussions? All you do is complain and freak out and call every player and coach a fucking idiot, and curse and make yourself look like a fool. If you want have to start an inteligent discussion, then do just that, act like you are inteligent. When you just go "fuck you BELICHICK! You are an awful coach blah blah, Nick Saban you are an idiot" it's not gonna get anywhere man.

[Rob]

Right. I never have an intelligent discussion. Ever. I think I should go sulk and shutup as you say. Obviously, you have power over me and know far more about everything in the world than I ever will. How will I ever live with myself?

[cwsrule88]

Bears 40, bills 7

bears 5-0 :bounce

[Tiduwho]

Omg, heartbreak central for Packer fans. Oh wow....oh man. That is so horrible.

[xBigNastyx]

Right. I never have an intelligent discussion. Ever. I think I should go sulk and shutup as you say. Obviously, you have power over me and know far more about everything in the world than I ever will. How will I ever live with myself?

I suppose exagerating is fun huh? Dude chill out.


How bout Leinart? Man he is off to a great start. Knock on wood.


I shoulda listened to my gut and played him and not played Delhomme since Palmer is on Bye. But I let people talk me out of it. :violent

[Trippin4136]

It's amazing every week the point differential between the Bears and their opponent. With this combo, they continue to distance themselves from the rest of the league. So far.

[Tiduwho]

Bears 156
Opponents 36


120 point differential. That's kinda good.

[Trippin4136]

Bears 156
Opponents 36


120 point differential. That's kinda good.


I hadn't looked at the exact numbers but from what I remember of the scores of their last 3 games, that sounds about right. I mean 31-7 average score? Wow.

[Rob]

They should either cancel the rest of the NFL season or declare the Super Bowl a race for 2nd place. The Bears are on another level right now.

[luke7]

As much as people on here hate on McNabb, he is the MVP so far this year.
Bledsoe is so washed. My Dolphins suck.

[BotheDMBFan]

You think you have inteligent discussions? All you do is complain and freak out and call every player and coach a fucking idiot, and curse and make yourself look like a fool. If you want have to start an inteligent discussion, then do just that, act like you are inteligent. When you just go "fuck you BELICHICK! You are an awful coach blah blah, Nick Saban you are an idiot" it's not gonna get anywhere man.

Fuck off Bignasty.

Rob>You, fact of life.

[seekupig]

i'm glad Larry Johnson is still alive..... that was a nasty facemask he took. hope he's ok....

[JamesM]

what do san diego people watch tonight?

[luke7]

The Steelers are beginning to look more and more like one of those Super Bowl Champions that fail to even make the playoffs the following year.

[SteelerMan]

The Steelers are beginning to look more and more like one of those Super Bowl Champions that fail to even make the playoffs the following year.

You've got that right. The offense has been struggling, but with the way the defense played in the second half tonight, we don't deserve to make it. They're playing the most uninspired football I've EVER seen a Bill Cowher coached team play. He better light a fire under their asses before the next game, or our season will soon be over.

[xBigNastyx]

Fuck off Bignasty.

Rob>You, fact of life.


Dude shutup. Don't try to butt into a conversation you had no a part of. Try to grow up a little bit man and stop looking to just flat out argue.

[BotheDMBFan]

Do you know me?

Do you know what I do?

No, and no.

So do be quiet.

[DMBfan41]

nice win by the G-Unit today.

Defense showed up for the first time this season. Offense had some nice drives. Feely won the game with 4 field goals.

Happy in Giants land tonight

[BotheDMBFan]

Thing is, your team plays great one week, then plays like shit the next.

[Rob]

New England manages to prove every year that against the Dolphins, it's better to be lucky than good. They also proved how important Graham is to the offense.

Tom Brady proved yesterday that there's something wrong with him. He's developed a tell as to where and when he'll be throwing (batted balls), he's consistantly missing receivers on correct routes (the "lack of familiarity" excuse no longer holds water), and his pocket awareness is slipping.

The defense still is capable of giving up the big play and disappear for minutes at a time. If yesterday had been against the Jets, Pennington's short passing game would have utterly shattered the Pats. Joey Harrington, Wes Welker, and Randy McMicheal picked this team apart. I look at those typed words and blood shoots out of my nose. Had it not been for a bad INT and a tipped ball INT, Miami very likely walks out with a victory. Yikes.

Apparently, nobody got the memo to Belichick (happy, douchebag?) that 2nd and 9 isn't a good place to be, seeing as how many times he threw Malroney or Dillon at the center of the Dolphins defense to be stuffed. I'm sure the Pats have two very sore RBs this morning.

Let us give thanks for the bye week and hope some collective heads get pulled out of some collective asses. It'll be easy to cruise to the AFC East title, but this team has some serious flaws right now that the Colts and Bears are going to exploit to the tune of blowouts.

[lmaciolek]

I know I'm partial to the Steelers, but I think they're the best.

The Ravens live on reputation. They're far removed from their Super Bowl team.

I don't see how anyone can rank the Bears number 1 after the playoffs last year where they got destroyed.

I'll break it down a little furter.




I will have to disagree with your opinions. Its obvious you rank the Steelers ahead because they are your team, I can understand that.

But to discredit the Bears because of what happened to them last year is not a good argument.

The Ravens play a different style of D than the Steelers, more of a bend but don't break. They figure that the more an Offense has to snap the ball to move down field, the better opportunity they have to make a mistake. The Ravens are one of the most dangerous Defenses because of that point.

The LBs? If you call the Ravens 3 the worst, its by a slim margin. Like the Steelers, we have 3 LBs that can be Pro Bowlers as well. Bart Scot was Defensive POM last month and he started off this month with an INT and 14 tackles against the Chargers. Adalius Thomas can play any position on the Defense and is very valuable to the team, any where you put him. As far as Gregg being undersized, that doesn't matter. He gets penetration and was effective, even when they ran a 3-4 and he was the only tackle. Ngata hasn't done anything yet? What exactly do you want your tackles to do? Get in the back field and disrupt the running game. He has done that. I am not sure what you want from him, maybe to get to the QB before he hands off the ball?

The Secondary is very good, and they don't have an undrafted rookie playing, he actually was drafted in the 5th round and was a stand out at GT. They only need a hard hitting guy in our safety position, they have the coverage down.

I would say that all 3 defenses right now are the top 3 in the NFL. To put one ahead of another shows too much bias in my opinion. If I did have to rank them it would be:

Bears
Ravens
Steelers

But they could be interchangeable and it wouldn't matter too much.

[Rob]

Why are we even talking about the Steelers anymore?

[SteelerMan]

Why are we even talking about the Steelers anymore?

Well, we're talking about the best defenses in the NFL, so the Steelers are pretty relevant if you ask me (although they didn't play like it in the 2nd half last night).

[lmaciolek]

Why are we even talking about the Steelers anymore?


Because this is the NFL thread, and they are in the NFL.

Talk about the Bucs for all I care.

[Rob]

Well, can we talk about the Raiders getting destroyed by the mighty 49ers? I can't wait to see a team go winless all season and make fun of Art Shell for years to come!

[SteelerMan]

Well, can we talk about the Raiders getting destroyed by the mighty 49ers? I can't wait to see a team go winless all season and make fun of Art Shell for years to come!

Absolutely. One of my dreams is to see a team go 0-16. I'm looking at their schedule, and now that the Browns and 49ers are out of the way, the only game left that really scares me is the December 3rd matchup against the Texans. The Texans have been playing much better this season though (fun fact: David Carr is the highest rated passer in the NFL), so this could be the year my dream comes true!

[lmaciolek]

Absolutely. One of my dreams is to see a team go 0-16. I'm looking at their schedule, and now that the Browns and 49ers are out of the way, the only game left that really scares me is the December 3rd matchup against the Texans. The Texans have been playing much better this season though (fun fact: David Carr is the highest rated passer in the NFL), so this could be the year my dream comes true!

:lol

I don't think I have ever in my life seen that sentance formed... :)

[dmbmuskie]

Why are we even talking about the Steelers anymore?

Because it's fun to bash the defending Super Bowl champs when they suck.

I never thought Steelers vs Raiders could decide who gets the number 1 pick in next years draft.

[SteelerMan]

I never thought Steelers vs Raiders could decide who gets the number 1 pick in next years draft.

:lol

Okay, we're not that bad. We've had a brutal schedule... our opponents' thus far have a 10-8 record (the three losses were to teams with a combined 9-4 record). On the other hand, the Ravens 4-0 record is against teams with a 4-13 record. Yes, they're winning the games they need to win, but people seem to ignore their schedule when discussing how great they are this season. Swap those schedules, and I say we're 3-1. Unfortunately, things aren't going to get much easier the rest of the way... very few cupcakes on our schedule.

[dmbmuskie]

:lol

Okay, we're not that bad. We've had a brutal schedule... our opponents' thus far have a 10-8 record (the three losses were to teams with a combined 9-4 record). On the other hand, the Ravens 4-0 record is against teams with a 4-13 record. Yes, they're winning the games they need to win, but people seem to ignore their schedule when discussing how great they are this season. Swap those schedules, and I say we're 3-1. Unfortunately, things aren't going to get much easier the rest of the way... very few cupcakes on our schedule.

You know you want to see Calvin Johnson in Pittsburgh.

[lmaciolek]

:lol

Okay, we're not that bad. We've had a brutal schedule... our opponents' thus far have a 10-8 record (the three losses were to teams with a combined 9-4 record). On the other hand, the Ravens 4-0 record is against teams with a 4-13 record. Yes, they're winning the games they need to win, but people seem to ignore their schedule when discussing how great they are this season. Swap those schedules, and I say we're 3-1. Unfortunately, things aren't going to get much easier the rest of the way... very few cupcakes on our schedule.

Well take out your 1-3 record from your opponets records and they are now 7-7.

Maybe thier record is better because they are playing the Steelers?

Just a thought.

[dmbmuskie]

Well take out your 1-3 record from your opponets records and they are now 7-7.

Maybe thier record is better because they are playing the Steelers?

Just a thought.

We get it. We're not very good.

[SteelerMan]

Well take out your 1-3 record from your opponets records and they are now 7-7.

Maybe thier record is better because they are playing the Steelers?

Just a thought.

No... I'd say the Dolphins, Jaguars, and Bengals are tougher than the Ravens' Bucs, Raiders, and Browns (both teams played the Chargers).

[xBigNastyx]

New England manages to prove every year that against the Dolphins, it's better to be lucky than good. They also proved how important Graham is to the offense.

Tom Brady proved yesterday that there's something wrong with him. He's developed a tell as to where and when he'll be throwing (batted balls), he's consistantly missing receivers on correct routes (the "lack of familiarity" excuse no longer holds water), and his pocket awareness is slipping.

The defense still is capable of giving up the big play and disappear for minutes at a time. If yesterday had been against the Jets, Pennington's short passing game would have utterly shattered the Pats. Joey Harrington, Wes Welker, and Randy McMicheal picked this team apart. I look at those typed words and blood shoots out of my nose. Had it not been for a bad INT and a tipped ball INT, Miami very likely walks out with a victory. Yikes.

Apparently, nobody got the memo to Belichick (happy, douchebag?) that 2nd and 9 isn't a good place to be, seeing as how many times he threw Malroney or Dillon at the center of the Dolphins defense to be stuffed. I'm sure the Pats have two very sore RBs this morning.

Let us give thanks for the bye week and hope some collective heads get pulled out of some collective asses. It'll be easy to cruise to the AFC East title, but this team has some serious flaws right now that the Colts and Bears are going to exploit to the tune of blowouts.

Well thought out read.

But grow up man, come on seriously.

[Rob]

Right. I attacked you personally and started the whole shebang. I'll get to work on growing up right away, dad.

[Tiduwho]

I love how the Bears are the only team that "hasn't played anybody".

Indy? Texans, Jets, Titans, and ALMOST LOST the two latter ones. Oppenents record: 8-15
Balti? Raiders, Cleveland, Tampa. Wow, what proof. 4-13
San Di? Titans, Raiders, depleted Steelers. 5-12
Philly? Texans, 49ers, Packers. Clearly they are beating the best there is to offer. 8-14


Chicago? Weak division, Buffalo. 9-14.

WOAH, what the fuck? Are you shitting me? Your telling me the Bears schedule has actually been HARDER than these "legit" contenders?

And you're also telling me that the point margin differential is:

Bears 156
Opp 36

120 points? How about the others?

Indy: 35
Balt: 53
Sand: 73
Philly: 58



Well I think we can all see that the Bears ARE NOT for real, while these teams are all legit and proven.

[xBigNastyx]

Right. I attacked you personally and started the whole shebang. I'll get to work on growing up right away, dad.

Truce? Since we are both Pats fans, we should get along lol.

[xBigNastyx]

I love how the Bears are the only team that "hasn't played anybody".

Indy? Texans, Jets, Titans, and ALMOST LOST the two latter ones. Oppenents record: 8-15
Balti? Raiders, Cleveland, Tampa. Wow, what proof. 4-13
San Di? Titans, Raiders, depleted Steelers. 5-12
Philly? Texans, 49ers, Packers. Clearly they are beating the best there is to offer. 8-14


Chicago? Weak division, Buffalo. 9-14.

WOAH, what the fuck? Are you shitting me? Your telling me the Bears schedule has actually been HARDER than these "legit" contenders?

And you're also telling me that the point margin differential is:

Bears 156
Opp 36

120 points? How about the others?

Indy: 35
Balt: 53
Sand: 73
Philly: 58



Well I think we can all see that the Bears ARE NOT for real, while these teams are all legit and proven.


Indy is the most over rated team, year in, year out.

The Bears are for real, who said they werent?

[Tiduwho]

Indy is the most over rated team, year in, year out.

The Bears are for real, who said they werent?


No one here per se, I just wanted to post it for the naysayers who just won't stop saying "So what, the Bears haven't played anyone."

[SteelerMan]

Yeah... I was just saying how easy the Ravens schedule was ON THIS VERY PAGE.

[xBigNastyx]

Yeah... I was just saying how easy the Ravens schedule was ON THIS VERY PAGE.


And?

[SteelerMan]

And?

He was saying how the Bears are the only team people are saying "haven't played anybody", yet I had just said the Ravens haven't played anybody.

[41ravens]

No one here per se, I just wanted to post it for the naysayers who just won't stop saying "So what, the Bears haven't played anyone."

they haven't. and they don't for the next month. the real test is the three week road trip against the giants, jets and pats. if they come out of there 3-0, i'll give them their due. and we all know that the bears are good in the regular season and choke in the playoffs anyways, so what does the season really matter?

[SteelerMan]

they haven't. and they don't for the next month. the real test is the three week road trip against the giants, jets and pats. if they come out of there 3-0, i'll give them their due. and we all know that the bears are good in the regular season and choke in the playoffs anyways, so what does the season really matter?

I agree with you except for that last line. That's exactly what people had always said about the Steelers prior to last season.

[lmaciolek]

No... I'd say the Dolphins, Jaguars, and Bengals are tougher than the Ravens' Bucs, Raiders, and Browns (both teams played the Chargers).

Who knows, the Browns played the game like it was thier Super Bowl. Its like the Dallas-Skins game. No matter how much better 1 team is over another, it will be a close game.

McNair has a lot to prove still, this much is true. He is still learning the offense and I think the second half of the season you will see what the Ravens have to offer. But we are collecting wins right now, and that is all that matters at this point in the season.

Worry about how good a team is when you are about to play them in the playoffs. Being better than another team is no good if you are watching them on TV in Jan.

[lmaciolek]

I agree with you except for that last line. That's exactly what people had always said about the Steelers prior to last season.


Well Big Ben tried to live up to the standards in the Super Bowl... ;)

[lmaciolek]

He was saying how the Bears are the only team people are saying "haven't played anybody", yet I had just said the Ravens haven't played anybody.

I know you said it already, but I wanted to point out that they did beat a team that beat the Steelers. :hump

[SteelerMan]

I know you said it already, but I wanted to point out that they did beat a team that beat the Steelers. :hump

This is true, although that Chargers-Ravens game would've been much more interesting had Marty let Rivers go crazy the way he did in the Steelers game. Rivers is the real deal... I actually think the Chargers have a good chance of going to the Super Bowl.

[lmaciolek]

This is true, although that Chargers-Ravens game would've been much more interesting had Marty let Rivers go crazy the way he did in the Steelers game. Rivers is the real deal... I actually think the Chargers have a good chance of going to the Super Bowl.


He may be the real deal against your secondary. He really didn't have much success after he was done his 20-25 scripted plays againt the Ravens.

He got picked once early that cost them a TD and he really wasn't the same QB after that, Marty Ball or not.

[SteelerMan]

He may be the real deal against your secondary. He really didn't have much success after he was done his 20-25 scripted plays againt the Ravens.

He got picked once early that cost them a TD and he really wasn't the same QB after that, Marty Ball or not.

If you're trying to say the Ravens secondary is better than the Steelers, I'm definitely not going to argue with you there. I'd say the Ravens have BY FAR the best secondary in the NFL. I think for his third career start playing against the best secondary in the league on the road, he did pretty well. I'm impressed by how well he reads defenses and takes advantage of blitzes.

[lmaciolek]

If you're trying to say the Ravens secondary is better than the Steelers, I'm definitely not going to argue with you there. I'd say the Ravens have BY FAR the best secondary in the NFL. I think for his third career start playing against the best secondary in the league on the road, he did pretty well. I'm impressed by how well he reads defenses and takes advantage of blitzes.

True, He did well. We didn't blitz too much, however. I know your D really gets after the QB and sometimes leaves your secondary exposed. I wish our guys did that. We play more of a bend but don't break type D. We figure the more plays it takes you to get into the end zone, the more opportunity you have to mess it up.

Rivers did OK. He is not a rookie though, so I don't anticipate him making rookie mistakes. He does have the best RB in the league and the Best TE in the league, that can really help your learning curve.

The Ravens did leave about 14 points out there on the field which made the game very close. If Mason doesn't lose that ball in the sun and Wilcox does some sort of move before getting smacked on the 1 and fumbling, we win by a wider margin.

I do like the fact that Phillip Rivers is 0-5 against the state of MD.

0-4 Against the UMD Terps
0-1 Against the Baltimore Ravens. :D

[xBigNastyx]

True, He did well. We didn't blitz too much, however. I know your D really gets after the QB and sometimes leaves your secondary exposed. I wish our guys did that. We play more of a bend but don't break type D. We figure the more plays it takes you to get into the end zone, the more opportunity you have to mess it up.

Rivers did OK. He is not a rookie though, so I don't anticipate him making rookie mistakes. He does have the best RB in the league and the Best TE in the league, that can really help your learning curve.

The Ravens did leave about 14 points out there on the field which made the game very close. If Mason doesn't lose that ball in the sun and Wilcox does some sort of move before getting smacked on the 1 and fumbling, we win by a wider margin.

I do like the fact that Phillip Rivers is 0-5 against the state of MD.

0-4 Against the UMD Terps
0-1 Against the Baltimore Ravens. :D

They have the best TE reciever in the league. But not the best all around TE, blocking included...

[thebigv]

Kellen Winslow II is finally starting to look like his father and less like a jackass. Gates is being under-utilized this season.

[lmaciolek]

They have the best TE reciever in the league. But not the best all around TE, blocking included...

Well you can't have both.

Who would you make the best TE all around in the league?
Since you shot mine down.

[Tiduwho]

they haven't. and they don't for the next month. the real test is the three week road trip against the giants, jets and pats. if they come out of there 3-0, i'll give them their due. and we all know that the bears are good in the regular season and choke in the playoffs anyways, so what does the season really matter?

Two times in 20 years = always. I see.


An 11 and 5 team that loses at home by a touchdown is a choke job? Well, the Bears are the only team that did that I guess, right? I mean, the Giants didn't even score a point at home and lost by 4 scores, but that didn't stop anyone from saying "They could win the East and go all the way to the Super Bowl".

One score....4 scores. The team that lost by one score = "blown out and exposed". The team that couldn't score a point is a legit Super Bowl contender coming into the season.

[lmaciolek]

Two times in 20 years = always. I see.

I know, the bears have to get to the post season a little more before we can say always. ;)

[Tiduwho]

Losing by God knows how many points in the NFC Championship game? Oh, that's okay. For next year that proved that they were everyone and their mom's Super Bowl Champs AND made them the highest rated defense. Because in the playoffs they let one of the worst offenses in the league score 21 on them, and then let Seattle score 34. That is PROOF that they should be rated the best defense and be Super Bowl favorites.




Remember guys, just listen to whoever gets the hype and the "shoulds", who cares about the actual stats.

[Tiduwho]

I did say 20 years, and the Bears playoff record over that span is 7 and 9. Shouldn't it be a lot worse? I thought they "always" choke in the playoffs? I thought the Bears were only good for one completely fluke year in '85 and every other year they've been one and done?


If only I could learn how to judge teams for "real" like our buddy 41ravens. Don't evaluate talent, just go by "shoulds" and what happened last time.

[xBigNastyx]

I did say 20 years, and the Bears playoff record over that span is 7 and 9. Shouldn't it be a lot worse? I thought they "always" choke in the playoffs? I thought the Bears were only good for one completely fluke year in '85 and every other year they've been one and done?


If only I could learn how to judge teams for "real" like our buddy 41ravens. Don't evaluate talent, just go by "shoulds" and what happened last time.


He's a Dallas fan, what do you expect?

[UNC41]

Losing by God knows how many points in the NFC Championship game? Oh, that's okay. For next year that proved that they were everyone and their mom's Super Bowl Champs AND made them the highest rated defense. Because in the playoffs they let one of the worst offenses in the league score 21 on them, and then let Seattle score 34. That is PROOF that they should be rated the best defense and be Super Bowl favorites.




Remember guys, just listen to whoever gets the hype and the "shoulds", who cares about the actual stats.

The Bears have been the best team in the NFL so far, but it's far too early to anoint anyone Super Bowl favorites.

[BotheDMBFan]

Of the 3 undefeated teams, I'd say the Bears have the best chance of going undefeated(not saying they, or anyone ever will) but of the teams left, Bears are looking pretty good.

[GavMan33]

Just thought I'd tell this little story to stir it up in here a little bit (keep in mind I don't like either team, but I do go to school in Cincinnati):

We're taking an English test earlier tonight, and this kid next to me looks up from his paper and starts shakin his hand because he's been writing so much. My professor looks at him and goes, "What's the matter? You look like little Ben after he throws another interception!" Needless to say, there was a large uproar in my class. I thought it was funny....

Now, that said, let's go Bills!

Or better yet, let's try not to get thoroughly embarassed anymore.....

[dmbmuskie]

Just thought I'd tell this little story to stir it up in here a little bit (keep in mind I don't like either team, but I do go to school in Cincinnati):

We're taking an English test earlier tonight, and this kid next to me looks up from his paper and starts shakin his hand because he's been writing so much. My professor looks at him and goes, "What's the matter? You look like little Ben after he throws another interception!" Needless to say, there was a large uproar in my class. I thought it was funny....

Now, that said, let's go Bills!

Or better yet, let's try not to get thoroughly embarassed anymore.....

Bengals fans are just the worst.

[GavMan33]

Bengals fans are just the worst.

I whole-heartedly agree with you. Not that I like the Steelers much either, but I cannot stand this city during football season :BANG

[dmbmuskie]

I whole-heartedly agree with you. Not that I like the Steelers much either, but I cannot stand this city during football season :BANG

I'd be so pissed if I was taking a test, and a professor broke my concentration to crack on a NFL rival.

I'm pretty sure the Steelers season is done, so I'll be rooting for whoever is playing for the Bengals hard ever weekend. I'll take great pleasure in seeing their opponents stuff the ball down their throats on offense and beat them up on defense.

Just so the Bengals fans who see this don't call be a fairweather fan, I'll still watch the Steelers every week, and I hope they win. However, digging out of a 1-3 hole is next to impossible. We're not very good, and I accept this.

[SteelerMan]

I'd be so pissed if I was taking a test, and a professor broke my concentration to crack on a NFL rival.

I'm pretty sure the Steelers season is done, so I'll be rooting for whoever is playing for the Bengals hard ever weekend. I'll take great pleasure in seeing their opponents stuff the ball down their throats on offense and beat them up on defense.

Just so the Bengals fans who see this don't call be a fairweather fan, I'll still watch the Steelers every week, and I hope they win. However, digging out of a 1-3 hole is next to impossible. We're not very good, and I accept this.

Don't throw in the towel yet. I like our chances in the next three games (Chiefs, Falcons, Raiders)... we win those three, and we're back over .500. I'm not predicting we will, but I think those are all very winnable games.

[seekupig]

it sucks i'm going to Pittsburgh this weekend to see the Chiefs and they'll likely be without their three most important offensive players...... :BANG

they're saying LJ is ok, but if his neck is still sore he may not play......

Chief concerns: Hall uncertain, L.J. OK, but Green out

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2618869

this may be just what the Steelers needed to feel good about themselves again.

[Tiduwho]

The Bears have been the best team in the NFL so far, but it's far too early to anoint anyone Super Bowl favorites.

No, read it again. I was talking about Carolina and how they did in the playoffs last year. Despite giving 55 points in two weeks and getting blown out by 3 scores, they were annointed as Super Bowl Champs and the best defense in the NFL coming into the season.

I was speaking in jest.

[BotheDMBFan]

Bengals fans are just the worst.

No, that'd be Eagles fans. Then Pats fans. Then Steelers fans.

[SteelerMan]

No, that'd be Eagles fans. Then Pats fans. Then Steelers fans.

Hmm... sounds like someone is associating "worst fans" with "most outspoken fans". Maybe it's just me, but I consider the "worst fans" to be those who only show up every time their team starts winning (I'm looking at you Bengals fans).

[xBigNastyx]

No, that'd be Eagles fans. Then Pats fans. Then Steelers fans.

Wow.

[UNC41]

No, read it again. I was talking about Carolina and how they did in the playoffs last year. Despite giving 55 points in two weeks and getting blown out by 3 scores, they were annointed as Super Bowl Champs and the best defense in the NFL coming into the season.

I was speaking in jest.

I read it again, and jest, like sarcasm, is often hard to come by in print. Also, hindsight is 20/20. On paper Carolina was the most talented NFC team coming into the seasons. They actually play the games though, to show that what is on paper at the beginning of the season is often useless months later.

[BotheDMBFan]

Hmm... sounds like someone is associating "worst fans" with "most outspoken fans". Maybe it's just me, but I consider the "worst fans" to be those who only show up every time their team starts winning (I'm looking at you Bengals fans).

Patriots fans are a great example of what you just said.


To soem extent, so are Steelers fans.

[SteelerMan]

Patriots fans are a great example of what you just said.


To soem extent, so are Steelers fans.

I'm not sure about Patriots fans... I'm so far from the area and paid such little attention to them prior to them winning the Super Bowl that I really don't know what their fanbase was like. I have no idea how you can accuse Steelers fans of being fairweather fans... yes, they bitch A LOT about the team when things are going poorly, but they still go to games and care about the team.

[BotheDMBFan]

I'm not sure about Patriots fans... I'm so far from the area and paid such little attention to them prior to them winning the Super Bowl that I really don't know what their fanbase was like. I have no idea how you can accuse Steelers fans of being fairweather fans... yes, they bitch A LOT about the team when things are going poorly, but they still go to games and care about the team.

That's why I said "to some extent"

The ones out side of Pittsburgh are very much like this for the most part.

[xBigNastyx]

Patriots fans are a great example of what you just said.


To soem extent, so are Steelers fans.


Hardly. I'm a Pats fan and I've always been there. Don't make stupid ass generalizations like that, especially when you have absolutely no idea what you are talking about man.

[Tiduwho]

I read it again, and jest, like sarcasm, is often hard to come by in print. Also, hindsight is 20/20. On paper Carolina was the most talented NFC team coming into the seasons. They actually play the games though, to show that what is on paper at the beginning of the season is often useless months later.


If ONLY they did this in College. Stupid BCS.

[dmbisgod]

Seahawk NATION

[xBigNastyx]

Seahawk NATION

Seattle is over rated.

[dmbisgod]

Seattle is over rated.
i disagree..

[xBigNastyx]

i disagree..

Are you a Seahawks fan?

[dmbisgod]

Are you a Seahawks fan?

im the 12th man

[xBigNastyx]

im the 12th man

That would explain why you don't think they are over rated. :lol

[lmaciolek]

I'm not sure about Patriots fans... I'm so far from the area and paid such little attention to them prior to them winning the Super Bowl that I really don't know what their fanbase was like. I have no idea how you can accuse Steelers fans of being fairweather fans... yes, they bitch A LOT about the team when things are going poorly, but they still go to games and care about the team.

***I read your post wrong and had to edit the first part***

I don't think Boston/New England Fans are fair weather. They have supported the Sox through 86 seasons of losing and I am pretty sure they were around before the Pats went on thier SB run.

Every city has Fair weathers to be sure, we have the same in the Baltimore area. I think its easy to point out the Bengals because they have been so poor for so long, you forgot they had any fan base to speak of.

[BotheDMBFan]

Here's my top 5.

1. Colts
2. Bears
3. Broncos
4. Eagles
5. Ravens

[Rob]

Uhhh... The Colts just beat the Titans by one point. One. They can't stop the run. They're nowhere near the level of the Bears right now.

1. Bears.
2. Everybody else.

In all seriousness...

1. Bears
2. Broncos
3. Colts
4. Ravens
5. Eagles

I can't be enough of a homer to put the Pats in the top 5. They just didn't look good this week. Granted, they never look good against the Dolphins, and they have an incredibly annoying habit of doing just enough to beat teams. Blah.

[SteelerMan]

I guess I'll post my Top 5 as well...

1. Bears
2. Broncos
3. Chargers
4. Colts
5. Eagles

I don't care that the Ravens beat the Chargers... the Chargers are the better team.

[BotheDMBFan]

Uhhh... The Colts just beat the Titans by one point. One. They can't stop the run. They're nowhere near the level of the Bears right now.

1. Bears.
2. Everybody else.

In all seriousness...

1. Bears
2. Broncos
3. Colts
4. Ravens
5. Eagles

I can't be enough of a homer to put the Pats in the top 5. They just didn't look good this week. Granted, they never look good against the Dolphins, and they have an incredibly annoying habit of doing just enough to beat teams. Blah.

Dude, I'm jsut afraid to put Da Bears #1.......mainly because I'm a fan.

[Bartender84]

Seattle is over rated.
Most people said they were overrated last year too. They need to work on the defense after that Chicago game though if they're going to have another shot at it.

[SteelerMan]

I think Seattle's Super Bowl hopes died when they lost Hutchinson.

[dmbmuskie]

No, that'd be Eagles fans. Then Pats fans. Then Steelers fans.

That's not even close to accurate.

[dmbmuskie]

1. Bears
2. Colts
3. Chargers
4. Eagles
5. Carolina
6. Denver
32. Raiders

[SteelerMan]

I'm getting pretty sick of the Bears hype. Yes, they're the best team right now, but people are already thinking they could go undefeated. Joe Theismann even PREDICTED they'd go undefeated last night. Give me a break. Yet another reason I don't pay attention to this stuff.

[dmbmuskie]

I'm getting pretty sick of the Bears hype. Yes, they're the best team right now, but people are already thinking they could go undefeated. Joe Theismann even PREDICTED they'd go undefeated last night. Give me a break. Yet another reason I don't pay attention to this stuff.

Everything that comes out of Theisman is garbage.

[SteelerMan]

Everything that comes out of Theisman is garbage.

:thumbsup

Agreed. Give me Madden over Theisman any day. Theisman is just unbearable.

[dmbmuskie]

:thumbsup

Agreed. Give me Madden over Theisman any day. Theisman is just unbearable.

Madden has gotten pretty bad as well, but he's 20 years older than Theisman. I think Phill Sims does the best job as a color man right now.

[AFurth]

I'm getting pretty sick of the Bears hype. Yes, they're the best team right now, but people are already thinking they could go undefeated. Joe Theismann even PREDICTED they'd go undefeated last night. Give me a break. Yet another reason I don't pay attention to this stuff.

Well theoretically, what happens if he's right.

Not saying that he will be - but that 16-0 season is going to happen. If Randy Moss and co. (earlier this decade) can go 15-1, and teams fo 14-2 every year, who's to say perfect can't be done?

And what's going to beat the bears? running? passing? tonya harding?

[dmbmuskie]

Well theoretically, what happens if he's right.

Not saying that he will be - but that 16-0 season is going to happen. If Randy Moss and co. (earlier this decade) can go 15-1, and teams fo 14-2 every year, who's to say perfect can't be done?

And what's going to beat the bears? running? passing? tonya harding?

It's okay to talk about in about 6 weeks. Until then they're just playing good football.

[UNC41]

And what's going to beat the bears? running? passing? tonya harding?

An off game? A team playing better than them one Sunday? Not getting breaks one week?

As impressive as the Bears have been thus far, it's just stupid to think the Bears cannot be beat on any given Sunday.

[SteelerMan]

An off game? A team playing better than them one Sunday? Not getting breaks one week?

As impressive as the Bears have been thus far, it's just stupid to think the Bears cannot be beat on any given Sunday.

:thumbsup

Correct. Especially when their starting quarterback has yet to play a full season without getting injured.

[dmbmuskie]

:thumbsup

Correct. Especially when their starting quarterback has yet to play a full season without getting injured.

It's not just that. The season is young. Some coach is going to find some weaknesses in them, and exploit them. After than everyteam is going to copy that strategy, tweak it a little, and they will lose.

[SteelerMan]

Yeah... weren't the Colts supposed to go undefeated and win the Super Bowl last year?

[dmbmuskie]

Yeah... weren't the Colts supposed to go undefeated and win the Super Bowl last year?


Yeah, the NFL really wanted them to win.

[xBigNastyx]

Uhhh... The Colts just beat the Titans by one point. One. They can't stop the run. They're nowhere near the level of the Bears right now.

1. Bears.
2. Everybody else.

In all seriousness...

1. Bears
2. Broncos
3. Colts
4. Ravens
5. Eagles

I can't be enough of a homer to put the Pats in the top 5. They just didn't look good this week. Granted, they never look good against the Dolphins, and they have an incredibly annoying habit of doing just enough to beat teams. Blah.

The Pats are better than the Colts/ Ravens. The Colts are undefeated barely because they haven't played anybody and they are squeeking by crappy teams.

[Tiduwho]

Even if the Bears get through that 3 game road trip still undefeated after week 12, they will be resting all their starters the rest of the way unless the Viqueens win out until then. Kyle Throat Beard would be starting the last couple games, because they wouldn't even put Griese out there. Favre in possibly his last game ever on New Years Eve against a Kyle Orton led Bears? Favre will work his magic and I can almost gurantee he'll have a good sendoff.


But to put the Colts ahead of the Bears is ludicrous right now. The Colts can't stop the run against anyone. They've almost lost to the Jets and Titans in successive weeks.


If anyone can find a weakness in the Bears and exploit them, it's Donovan F. McNabb. I don't want any part of them in the playoffs.

[UNC41]

The Pats are better than the Colts/ Ravens. The Colts are undefeated barely because they haven't played anybody and they are squeeking by crappy teams.

So are the Pats.

[Tiduwho]

Some stats analysis I posted on ESPN, might as well go it here:


Guess who has the #1 Defense, Offense, AND Special Teams?

Yup, it's the Bears for all three.

#1 in scoring defense and scoring OFFENSE. It's too bad the Bears only play 3 quarters, so their yards suffer accordingly. They are only 4th in the league in offensive yards (356.4 yds, 1 yard behind Indy for 3rd) , despite playing "Griese hands off the ball to Cedric Benson for the entire 4th quarter" for 3 of their 5 games.

Sucks for Grossman's MVP chances, McNabb's played 3 more quarters then him. It's unfair, but I'm sure no one will take that into account. But I digress:

Scoring Offense
1. Bears - 31.2 pts
2. Eagles - 31
3. Dallas - 28.2
4. Indy - 27.0
5. San Diego - 25.8

Scoring Defense
1. Bears - 7.2
2. Denver - 8.5
3. San Diego - 9
4. Balti - 9.2
5. Falcons - 10.5

Robbie Gould is 17 for 17 in field goals. Brad Maynard is 5th in Net avg with 8 of his 19 punts inside the 20. Devin Hester is incredibly fast and is a threat to take it all the way any time he has the ball (the only problem is he needs to catch the ball against his body, at least he hasn't lost any fumbles).


By the way, weren't the Bears supposed to have no offense, and wasn't Grossman supposed to be gone by week 4? I thought Grossman and Griese were only slightly better than Kyle Throat Beard? For the record, every single starter is the same as last year...except one: Rex Grossman.

[lmaciolek]

I guess I'll post my Top 5 as well...

1. Bears
2. Broncos
3. Chargers
4. Colts
5. Eagles

I don't care that the Ravens beat the Chargers... the Chargers are the better team.

I don't know if the Chargers belong in the 3 slot. Just because they put a whoppin on the Steelers doesn't make them legit.

[dmbmuskie]

But to put the Colts ahead of the Bears is ludicrous right now. The Colts can't stop the run against anyone. They've almost lost to the Jets and Titans in successive weeks.


Hasn't anyone learned their lesson about resting the starters yet? If they are healthy they should play and keep their edge.

[dmbmuskie]

I don't know if the Chargers belong in the 3 slot. Just because they put a whoppin on the Steelers doesn't make them legit.

The fact that they beat the Steelers has nothing to do with me ranking them there. The Bengals beat the Steelers, and I think they totally suck. The Chargers defense is incredible, and the offense is going to get better every week.



EDIT: Nevermind. I thought those were my rankings.

[xBigNastyx]

So are the Pats.


They destroyed the Bengals who are a good team. What good team has the Colts beaten up on? How is the Colts run D, how is their running game? Ok then.

Next please?

[SteelerMan]

I don't know if the Chargers belong in the 3 slot. Just because they put a whoppin on the Steelers doesn't make them legit.

Aside from the Bears, the Chargers are the most balanced and complete team I've seen this year. They should be undefeated, but Schottenheimer pissed away that Ravens game. I'd actually say Schottenheimer's gameplan is their weakest link.

[GavMan33]

The Pats are better than the Colts/ Ravens. The Colts are undefeated barely because they haven't played anybody and they are squeeking by crappy teams.

I'm sorry bro, I have to ask. Not too many posts ago in this thread you called somebody out for saying the Seahawks are not overrated, and you asked if he was a Seattle fan. He responded by saying he's the 12th man, and you said that's why he doesn't think they're overrated. The same argument would apply here, my friend....

[Trippin4136]

The Pats are better than the Colts/ Ravens. The Colts are undefeated barely because they haven't played anybody and they are squeeking by crappy teams.

Pats: Bills, Jets, Broncos, Bengals, Dolphins.

Colts: Giants, Texas, Jaguars, Jets, Titans

So the Pats lost to the best team on their schedule, and a better team, and beat the Bengals and play in a division that isn't blowing anyone's skirt up by beating the Bills, Jets and Dolphins by a combined 19 points.

The Colts beat the Giants and Jaguars, both who are not total pushovers ("total" is more directed at my Giants) and beat 2 other weak divisional opponents.

Neither team has beaten a team one would rank in the top 5 of the league at this moment.

[dmbhoosier21]

The Pats are better than the Colts/ Ravens. The Colts are undefeated barely because they haven't played anybody and they are squeeking by crappy teams.

The Bears opponents' record - 9-15
The Colts record 8-15

-Ummmm, I really don't see that big of a difference there

And the Colts running offense is steadily taking shape (check last two games) - Indy's running game will be in the top ten by the end of the season with Addai and Rhodes.

And with the Colts run defense.......well even I can't defend that pathetic excuse for a run defense

With all that being said, I am not at all arguing for the Colts being better than the Bears at this point. The Bears are definitely the best team at this stage of the season. And I disagree, the Pats and Ravens are not better than the Colts.


The thing that I am somewhat excited about are that the Colts are playing about as bad as any team out there (relative to their abilities). Anyone who has followed the Colts the last few years would agree that they are playing like absolute crap.....yet somehow they have managed to stay undefeated. Manning and the Colts had no close/tough games where they had to manufacture game-winning/tying drives until the playoffs last season. So far this season, Manning has had two, and the defense was able to stop a game-winning drive by an opponent already - that's 3 for the year. Tough/close games will serve them well come playoff time.

If people are banking on the Colts' offense scoring below 20 pts in a game.....well, let's just say that is not probably going to happen too many times in the future. The Colts offense has been sub-par and are still a top 5 offense in the league.

How many teams in the league can manage a 5-0 record while playing like absolute crap?

Basically, yes the Colts are playing like shit and the Bears are better than anyone, BUT the Colts are still 5-0 (while playing like crap) and it's WAAAY to early to be punching in any SB tix at this stage of the season. I should know I am a Colts fan.

[UNC41]

They destroyed the Bengals who are a good team. What good team has the Colts beaten up on? How is the Colts run D, how is their running game? Ok then.

Next please?

The Bengals game and the Colts defense has nothing to do with the fact that the Pats are also squeaking by crappy teams as you said.

Buffalo - 2
Jets - 7
Miami - 10

Next please?

[dmbhoosier21]

The way I see it; Chicago is the only team who has separated themselves from the rest of the league

The "other" elite teams are teams such as Indy, Pats, SD, Phil etc......but I think it is really hard to distinctly separate those teams from one other at this stage of the season. Just look at past SB teams, who struggled early during the reg. season but then ended up winning it all - the Steelers last year is a great example.

[xBigNastyx]

The Bengals game and the Colts defense has nothing to do with the fact that the Pats are also squeaking by crappy teams as you said.

Buffalo - 2
Jets - 7
Miami - 10

Next please?

I disagree that the Colts are better all around team than the Patriots. I guess you all will find out come playoff time when the Colts lay down again.

[UNC41]

I disagree that the Colts are better all around team than the Patriots. I guess you all will find out come playoff time when the Colts lay down again.

Which team is better is an opinion that will differ among people right now. I just don't find it smart to knock the Colts for squeaking out wins against bad teams when yours has been doing the exact same thing.

[Rob]

Yeah, there's nothing to stand on with the Pats right now. They had an incredible showing against the Bungles, but have barely beaten sub-par teams in the Jets, Dolphins, and Bills. The team is capable of alot more, but Brady is teh suck right now, they have no WR threat, and the defense is a complete crapshoot from play to play.

[i listen to #41]

Why are the Dolphins so good this year?

[dmbhoosier21]

Yeah, there's nothing to stand on with the Pats right now. They had an incredible showing against the Bungles, but have barely beaten sub-par teams in the Jets, Dolphins, and Bills. The team is capable of alot more, but Brady is teh suck right now, they have no WR threat, and the defense is a complete crapshoot from play to play.

I hate homers who can't see the faults with their own teams - obviously you are not one of those people

but, nothing can compare to the ineptitude of the Colt's run defense - their D-line gets pushed 3 yards off the ball and subsquently the LBs overrun or attempt an arm-tackle on the ball carrier who proceeds to gain another 5 yards on the play. :BANG

This is not bitching - just watch a Colts game

Again, the Bears seem to be the only team to be without any glaring weaknesses. The rest of the "elite" teams definitely have some areas that they need to improve upon - thus making any bold playoff prediction at wk. 5-6 about any team as being completely worthless. Especially when it has been shown the last few years that teams who struggled early-mid reg. season have ended up winning the SB (i.e. the Steelers)

[Rob]

Why are the Dolphins so good this year?

Yeah, they're well on their way to winning the AFC (and ultimately, the Super Bowl) just like the experts predicted! :lol

[xBigNastyx]

I hate homers who can't see the faults with their own teams - obviously you are not one of those people

but, nothing can compare to the ineptitude of the Colt's run defense - their D-line gets pushed 3 yards off the ball and subsquently the LBs overrun or attempt an arm-tackle on the ball carrier who proceeds to gain another 5 yards on the play. :BANG

This is not bitching - just watch a Colts game

Again, the Bears seem to be the only team to be without any glaring weaknesses. The rest of the "elite" teams definitely have some areas that they need to improve upon - thus making any bold playoff prediction at wk. 5-6 about any team as being completely worthless. Especially when it has been shown the last few years that teams who struggled early-mid reg. season have ended up winning the SB (i.e. the Steelers)

I hope that's not intended at me. If it is, forgive me for thinking the Pats are better than the Colts. :rolleyes

[dmbhoosier21]

I hope that's not intended at me. If it is, forgive me for thinking the Pats are better than the Colts. :rolleyes

I would not fault anyone for thinking their team is better than the Colts (to a certain extent, i.e. a Texans fan claiming the same opinion would be dumb)

I just think it is worthless to predict how the playoffs are going to play out considering we are not even halfway through the regular season.

Some teams will improve and some will get worse, there will be injuries and other variables that will play out through the season.

Just look at last year, Colts looked unbeatable at this point (similar to the bears) while the Steelers struggled through parts of the reg. season.

You can make the claim that the Pats are better than the Colts right now, that is definitely debatable and possible but......

Making such bold predictions about the playoffs at this stage of the season is completely baseless and is therefore worthless. :rolleyes

[dmbmuskie]

Again, the Bears seem to be the only team to be without any glaring weaknesses. The rest of the "elite" teams definitely have some areas that they need to improve upon - thus making any bold playoff prediction at wk. 5-6 about any team as being completely worthless. Especially when it has been shown the last few years that teams who struggled early-mid reg. season have ended up winning the SB (i.e. the Steelers)

I know people are going to disagree with this, but the Bears have a weakness, Rex Grossman. As we speak coaches are looking for ways to disrupt what the Bears do, and once they find something that works we don't know how Rex will react.

I also don't know how anyone can forget what Carolina did to the in the playoffs last year.

[xBigNastyx]

I know people are going to disagree with this, but the Bears have a weakness, Rex Grossman. As we speak coaches are looking for ways to disrupt what the Bears do, and once they find something that works we don't know how Rex will react.

I also don't know how anyone can forget what Carolina did to the in the playoffs last year.


Good points. Right now the Bears look like the best team. But that's RIGHT NOW, week 6. Not week 17. Things change. Anyone who is writing them down already as in the superbowl is a fool.

[Trippin4136]

anyone who writes any team down at Week 6 in the Super Bowl is a fool

[xBigNastyx]

anyone who writes any team down at Week 6 in the Super Bowl is a fool

That's what I was implying...

[Trippin4136]

thats just how football is....I don't even think it works in Week 17. You never know who survives the playoffs.

[Bartndrpleez]

Yeah, they're well on their way to winning the AFC (and ultimately, the Super Bowl) just like the experts predicted! :lol

You damn right! And we got JOEY HARRINGTON to lead us to the promise land!!! :lol






















:(

[dmbmuskie]

It's funny to me that we've had 5 weeks of football, and seemingly 5 different Super Bowl favorites.

Week 1 was Carolina.
Week 2 was Indy.
Week 4 was Cincy
Week 6 is Chicago.

It's all bullshit.

[xBigNastyx]

You damn right! And we got JOEY HARRINGTON to lead us to the promise land!!! :lol






















:(


Yeah getting Culpepper wasn't the best move. Shoulda got Brees. IMO Daunte has been what I call a fantasy QB who isn't that good in real life. When he was good, he had Randy Moss in his prime and would just chuck the ball deep and Moss would go get it. Culpepper is NOT a good red zone QB, he isn't very good at reading defensive schemes, and he just doesn't make good decisions IMO.

[dmbmuskie]

Yeah getting Culpepper wasn't the best move. Shoulda got Brees. IMO Daunte has been what I call a fantasy QB who isn't that good in real life. When he was good, he had Randy Moss in his prime and would just chuck the ball deep and Moss would go get it. Culpepper is NOT a good red zone QB, he isn't very good at reading defensive schemes, and he just doesn't make good decisions IMO.

In Culpepper's defense he's still rehabbing.

[Trippin4136]

In Culpepper's defense he's still rehabbing.

no kidding...he did get his knee completely exploded.

[xBigNastyx]

In Culpepper's defense he's still rehabbing.


I'm not talking about this year, I am talking about his career. He put up good numbers because he could just go deep to Moss and Moss would catch anything. Obviously, he is a pretty good QB, but I would never want him as my QB in real life, not this year, not last year, not the year before, and not the year before. He is a fantasy QB who has always been inconsistent. One week he would throw for 400 yds and 3 td, the next 180 yds, a td and 2 picks.

[GOB_]

I'm not talking about this year, I am talking about his career. He put up good numbers because he could just go deep to Moss and Moss would catch anything. Obviously, he is a pretty good QB, but I would never want him as my QB in real life, not this year, not last year, not the year before, and not the year before. He is a fantasy QB who has always been inconsistent. One week he would throw for 400 yds and 3 td, the next 180 yds, a td and 2 picks.


Obviously, he's been exposed, but the guy hasn't even played a full season's worth of games dating back to last season. However, if you failed to take him the two years previous to last year then you missed out on 64 TDs versus 22 INTs. I'd say those were some pretty good fantasy numbers.

[xBigNastyx]

Obviously, he's been exposed, but the guy hasn't even played a full season's worth of games dating back to last season. However, if you failed to take him the two years previous to last year then you missed out on 64 TDs versus 22 INTs. I'd say those were some pretty good fantasy numbers.


Which is EXACTLY why I said he puts up good fantasy numbers, but I wouldn't want him as my real life QB. Do people read entire posts? :lol

[GOB_]

Which is EXACTLY why I said he puts up good fantasy numbers, but I wouldn't want him as my real life QB. Do people read entire posts? :lol


Well, I think that would apply to having him as your QB in "real" life, too. He also threw for ~8,000 yards. Those are pretty good numbers in "real" life - which is what I meant.

[Tiduwho]

anyone who writes any team down at Week 6 in the Super Bowl is a fool


Who in the world is writing anyone into the Super Bowl? :ugh

[xBigNastyx]

Well, I think that would apply to having him as your QB in "real" life, too. He also threw for ~8,000 yards. Those are pretty good numbers in "real" life - which is what I meant.

I prefer QBs who can lead me down in a 2 minute drill and control the ball, not chuck the ball 80 yards and have his tallest reciever jump up and get it and then give the ball back to the other team cause you only took 4 seconds to score cause anyone can chuck the ball up in the air to Randy Moss. I prefer QBs who can perform in the red zone and have some kind of consistency. Culpepper is a very over rated QB IMO.

[xBigNastyx]

Who in the world is writing anyone into the Super Bowl? :ugh

I think someone was saying that Chicago are NFC superbowl favorites in here.

[SteelerMan]

It's funny to me that we've had 5 weeks of football, and seemingly 5 different Super Bowl favorites.

Week 1 was Carolina.
Week 2 was Indy.
Week 4 was Cincy
Week 6 is Chicago.

It's all bullshit.

:thumbsup

Thank you. That's the main reason I can't watch ESPN NFL coverage anymore.

[GOB_]

I prefer QBs who can lead me down in a 2 minute drill and control the ball, not chuck the ball 80 yards and have his tallest reciever jump up and get it and then give the ball back to the other team cause you only took 4 seconds to score cause anyone can chuck the ball up in the air to Randy Moss. I prefer QBs who can perform in the red zone and have some kind of consistency. Culpepper is a very over rated QB IMO.


Tell that to the QBs in Oakland. They don't seem to be having the same success Culpepper did. He also had a completion percentage of 65 and 69, respectively. I'd say that's a pretty good job at ball-control. I'm not saying that he's the best but he had two incredible years.

By the way, why did you change your username?