AFC 2007-2008 Division Predictions

The roar of the crowd, cold cracks of the beer, fans represent loud cause football is here! Or at least it will be within a few days! So before everyone leaves indentations in their recliners and become fixated to their television screens all Sunday afternoon, the arguable debate of division leaders must not be denied. Who do you have going into the playoffs this year?

AFC WEST

The Raiders continue to struggle on the offensive side of the ball as JaMarcus Russell continues to hold out and the questionable Daunte Culpepper is brought in as plan B. Either way, the Raiders don’t stand a chance of rising to the top of the Western Division this year. The true battle for this top slot is going to be fought between Broncos and Bolts as Denver looks to get back on top over the Chargers. This shouldn’t be an easy task, but after the loss of Marty Schottenheimer, the Chargers will lose their coaching edge. Norv Turner is going to lose in a match up of wits with Mike Shanahan.

1) Denver Broncos

2) San Diego Chargers

3) Kansas City Chiefs

4) Oakland Raiders

AFC EAST

For all the Patriot haters around the NFL, this probably won’t be the year you get to watch them decline into nothing. With several strong off-season moves, they should continue to be a dominating force in the AFC, much less the AFC East. The Jets will continue to win games as they struggle to overthrow the Patriots rein over the East. The team to improve this year will be Miami, as Cam Cameron proves he is capable of running with the big boys.

1) New England Patriots

2) New York Jets

3) Miami Dolphins

4) Buffalo Bills

AFC NORTH

The big battle in the North is going to be for the second place and a wild card slot come the end of the season. The Ravens stifling defense should continue to rank Baltimore on top of this division. That leaves the Steelers and Bengals to slug out for the number two slot. Given that Ben Roethlisberger can keep himself healthy this season, the edge should fall to the Steelers.

1) Baltimore Ravens

2) Pittsburgh Steelers

3) Cincinnati Bengals

4) Cleveland Browns

AFC SOUTH

The question in the South is: can the defending Super Bowl Champs remain on top? Several predictions are going to show the Colts at number one this year, and several others with show them fall. The guess is whether or not anyone thinks they can put a repeat for back-to-back Super Bowls. Vince Young and the Titans should be set to keep themselves in the running as they wash their hands of “Pacman” Jones. The Jaguars look as if they will continue to hold a strong defense. So once again, the Texans are left to scrape the bottom of the barrel.

1) Indianapolis Colts

2) Tennessee Titans

3) Jacksonville Jaguars

4) Houston Texans

That concludes this year’s 2007-2008 AFC predictions. The season is around the bend, and as the clock continues to count down, all NFL fans must ask themselves…”Are you ready for some Football?”

NFC 2007-2008 Division Predictions

With preseason only days away and countdowns ticking away the hours every where you look, it’s only natural that predictions begin to surface everywhere. Who will be this year’s team to beat? Who will be the team for everyone to beat? And, of course, who will be this years division leaders going into the playoffs?

NFC EAST

Last years Washington Redskins came in last in the division with an awful 5-11 record that was just a display of their trials and tribulations throughout the year. This year may not prove to be any better, as the team is already experiencing some notable injuries including Santana Moss and Clinton Portis. The New York Giants bested Washington with an 8-8 record to place 3^rd, but their loss of Tiki Barber and continuing woes revolving around Tom Coughlin will probably keep these two teams in a battle to stay out of last place. This leaves the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles to battle for the number one slot in the NFC East. Given the loss of Bill Parcells in Dallas, the NFC East ranks as follows:

1) Philadelphia Eagles

2) Dallas Cowboys

3) New York Giants

4) Washington Redskins

NFC NORTH

This is probably the easiest division for picking a winner in the entire NFL this year. There is no contest, hands down that the Chicago Bears will continue to own this division this year. The only question to be asked is in what order does the other three get ranked in? Jon Kitna, of the Detroit Lions, has actually gone on record guaranteeing a 10+ win season for the Lions this year. As laughable as that may be, an improvement should be a very likely prediction for a team that finished 3-13 last year. However, much improvement isn’t seen in Green Bay after an 8-8 season that ranked them 2^nd in their division last year. With an ageing QB in Brett Favre and no foreseeable hope for a championship, this team is set to struggle through another year. All in all, ranking for the NFC North will be:

1) Chicago Bears

2) Minnesota Vikings

3) Green Bay Packers

4) Detroit Lions

NFC SOUTH

With the impressive season displayed by the Saints last year, there seems to be no indication that they will be unable to repeat this process. With the return of Drew Brees, Deuce McAllister, Reggie Bush, and Marques Colston, there high powered offense should be set to run up a few scoreboards. The noticeable changes to this division this year will come at the hands of the Buccaneers and Falcons. Expect Tampa to rebound from last year to give Carolina a run for their money. The Falcons are going to have their down and out year this season as Michael Vick brings turmoil to the Atlanta club and Bobby Petrino wishes he had held on to Matt Schaub. It looks as if Joey Harrington is left to take up the starting quarterback job.

1) New Orleans Saints

2) Carolina Panthers

3) Tampa Bay Buccaneers

4) Atlanta Falcons

NFC WEST

Despite all the talent in Arizona, that franchise has got a curse hanging over it’s head and can’t be considered a contender until they break it. That doesn’t mean they can’t win a few games and create an upset. The NFC West is simply going to be a tough division to win this year. The Seahawks pulled off the number one slot last years through numerous injuries, but will be starting off this season with starters Matt Hasselbeck and Shaun Alexander off the injury reports. The Rams broke even last year, but will be looking to improve upon that record. However, the team to be watching in this division this year will be the 49ers. There’s improvement in this club and they are looking to rise up in the rankings.

1) Seattle Seahawks

2) San Francisco 49ers

3) St. Louis Rams

4) Arizona Cardinals

That wraps the NFC 2007-2008 predictions. With the season staring it’s fans the face, they can only wait and see who truly will be this years division leaders.

Crime and Punishment in the NFL

Image and conduct have been a long-standing problem within professional sports. Every time a television is turned on or a newspaper is opened there is a story involving the arrest, conviction, or suspension of another sports figure. However, the punishment for these athletes never seems to match the extent of the crimes. Sports fans are growing weary of the message today’s youth continues to witness time and again as professional athletes behave unprofessionally with minimal repercussions. The increasing dissatisfaction has become so significant that the NFL, the leader in professional sports conduct enforcement, has decided to implement a new league conduct policy. With the structure of teamwork between the Commissioner and Players Association, increased education, and strict discipline, this new policy promises to effectively decrease the misconduct in the NFL.

The greatest downfall of most conduct policies in professional sports today is the constant disagreement between a league commissioner and the players’ association. It would seem that the NFL has already overcome this problem. With Commissioner Roger Goodell’s recognition of the ineffectiveness the current and long-standing policies have had, he has taken it upon himself to expand and improve the system with the full support of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). After the announced implementation of the new policy, the NFLPA executive director Gene Upshaw showed his support, acknowledging, “We believe that these are steps that the commissioner needs to take and we support the policy” (“NFL Strengthens”). As if the approval of the NFLPA wasn’t sufficient, a Player Advisory Council has also been established to expand the ruling body for the purpose of addressing future issues. Made up of active players from various teams, this council will serve as the voice of the athletes beyond that of the NFLPA. Unlike other professional sports, where arguments and disagreements between commissioners and association result in bitter negotiations and often escalate into strikes, the NFL has unified and expanded to assure that everyone is taken into account when working toward upholding the integrity of the League.

A key component in the new conduct policy is the expanded education that will be put into practice to help first-year players transitioning into the league as well as to help veterans deal with their lives in the spotlight. Most first-year players that enter into the NFL are young adults who have only recently graduated from college and, frequently, are making the transition immediately after their junior year. These young adults will largely be college students that have struggled with finances through their college careers. The sudden shift into the spotlight can be overwhelming and exciting as they almost immediately find themselves on television, fawned over by adoring fans, and taking on more financial income than ever before. The new NFL conduct policy has mandated several educational functions that will help these players adjust. An annual rookie symposium of all drafted players followed up with year-round orientation has been established for rookies, and all employees will benefit from an expanded annual life-skills program, annual briefings pertaining to law, and club implemented law compliance programs (“NFL Strengthens”). Even with all the new programs being initiated for educating players, the NFL understands that problems will still arise. To address these issue, the policy will also include expanded counseling and treatment programs.

Although many steps are being taken to prevent any future disciplinary problems, the NFL conduct policy has also instituted higher fines and suspension for players that still display conduct inappropriate for the NFL image. In the 2006 calendar year alone, there were 36 individual players arrested or brought up on charges (“NFL Players”). Of these 36 individuals, Chris Henry of the Cincinnati Bengals and Adam “Pacman” Jones of the Tennessee Titans were involved in multiple incidents. In response to these incidents, and in conjunction with the installment of the new policy, Commissioner Goodell addressed them as bringing “embarrassment and ridicule upon yourself, your club, and the NFL” and enacted an eight game suspension for Henry, while ending Jones’ season for 2007 (Battista). Although the conditions of the suspension vary slightly between the two players, both players must exhibit model behavior during their term of suspension to avoid further disciplinary actions, and neither is guaranteed reinstatement upon the end of their leave. At the conclusion of their suspension, they must both apply for reinstatement, at which time they will be reviewed to determine whether the NFL feels they have earned the right to return. “You have put in jeopardy an otherwise promising NFL career,” Commissioner Goodell wrote to both Jones and Henry (Bell). If Jones is convicted of current allegations, or either player acts with conduct inappropriate for the NFL, the Commissioner will most likely refuse any reinstatements.

With fan tolerance reaching its threshold, the NFLPA has published the rules and regulations of the conduct policy for anyone who wishes to review its contents. The policy has been written for any “Covered Persons” within the NFL establishment and includes all full-time employees, players, rookies selected in the Draft, as well as undrafted rookies, unsigned veterans and any other prospective employee commenced in negotiations (“Rules and Regulations”). This conduct is not only limited to crimes that end in arrest. The NFL has established its right to enforce this policy on any Covered Person that is involved in any conduct deemed detrimental to the image of the league, whether or not they are charged, convicted, or engaged in any criminal activity. It is also clearly stated within the regulations that all arrests or criminal charges that are not public knowledge must be reported to the individual’s Club or NFL security immediately and that failure to report will result in consideration of higher penalties when determining disciplinary action (“Rules and Regulations”). Although the policy does inform all employees of their right to appeal any disciplinary actions brought up against them, it seems perfectly clear that the NFL has no intention of taking any conduct that is ruled detrimental to the game lightly.

Although it has seemed that a majority of NFL players are in agreement with all the new conduct policies, there have been individuals who have announced their doubt or dissatisfaction. Keyshawn Johnson, a former receiver for the Carolina Panthers, expressed some of his doubts and concerns when he said: “I hope it doesn’t backfire. What happens if a coach, GM or owner gets a DUI? Then what? What if an ex-NFL player throws himself through a window in Miami? That still reflects on the NFL’s image” (Bell). Although Johnson asks some interesting questions, these shouldn’t raise any concern of a “backfire” with the new policies. Coaches and GM’s have received fines in the past and are not above the ruling of the Commissioner, and although it may be difficult to suspend a team owner, heavy team fines and denial of national television slots are still detrimental to an owner’s bottom line. As for an ex-NFL player throwing himself from a window, this player is no longer under the jurisdiction of the league, and it would seem the player had already punished himself.

Another player who has spoken out openly against the new conduct policy has been Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Warren Sapp. Sapp’s concerns have been directed more toward the recent suspension of “Pacman” Jones. “What the hell rule did he break?” Sapp questioned. “Oh, that ‘we can do whatever we want’ rule. Believe me, you don’t want to be there. Some people said that Pacman might want to appeal. To who? God?” (Bell). Sapp’s concern has been directed at the most recent incident involving Jones, where Jones may face felony charges for a dispute in a Las Vegas strip club that left a security guard paralyzed. Although no convictions have been made, this incident is the tenth time Jones has had a run-in with law enforcement since his draft in 2005 (Bell). Jones’ constant involvement with criminal activity is in itself detrimental to the image of the NFL, regardless of his convictions.

Although no policy will ever eradicate all occurrences involving individuals who surround themselves with inappropriate crowds and surroundings, the new conduct policy enforced by the NFL has opened a doorway for better education and support for its employees. The disciplinary repercussions are greater and offer a larger deterrent for individuals that insist on continuing to pursue inappropriate behavior, and the Commissioner’s option to refuse reinstatement can remove repeat offenders from the presence of the NFL. The policy promises to better control the image of professional football and allows openings for adjustment as new problems arise. It’s time for players to start behaving like professionals. It’s time they realize their positions for what they are. As Commissioner Goodell has been quoted saying across all forms of media, “To play in the NFL is a privilege, not a right.”

Works Cited

Battista, Judy. “NFL Suspends 2 Players for Personal Conduct.” The New York Times. 10 Apr. 2007. 26 Apr. 2007. http://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/10/sports/football/11cndnfl.html?_r=2&hp&oref=slogin&oref=slogin

Bell, Jarrett. “Conduct unbecoming: NFL sets new standard with suspensions.” USA Today. Apr. 2007. 26 Apr. 2007. http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2007-04-10-pacman-henry-suspensions_N.htm.

“NFL Players Arrested This Year.” 2006. The Washington Post. 26 Apr. 2007. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/nfl/longterm/2006/nfl_chart_12162006.html

“NFL strengthens personal conduct policy.” NFL.com. 26 Apr. 2007. 14 Apr. 2007. http://www.nfl.com/news/story/10119182.

“Rules and Regulations: Conduct Policy.” NFL Players Association. 26 Apr. 2007. http://www.nflpa.org/RulesAndRegs/ConductPolicy.aspx.

41st Annual Miami dolphins Award Night

On Thursday evening May 3^rd, 2007, the Miami Dolphins held their 41^st annual Awards night under the cover of their Davie, Florida indoor practice facility. Although it’s an event to recognize members of the Dolphin franchise, it also recognizes achievers of the community for their outstanding works and contributions. Kicking off with dinner and the opportunity for Dol-Fans to meet and mingle with players, this sold out event attracted Dol-Fans that flew in from all parts of the country.

Opening with a performance by the Dolphin cheerleaders, Jimmy Cefalo and Kenny Walker jumped into the evening as this years award show hosts by calling out and introducing the entire 2007 coaching staff and players. The electricity of lights, cameras, music and the roaring applause of the crowd filled the facility as, one by one, each coach and player crossed the stage as this years Dolphin team.

As a franchise that prides itself on character and an outpour of service to its community, it was only fitting to begin the awards with the recognition of South Florida’s outstanding citizens. An amazing group of individuals, this years recipients of the Community Service Awards, presented by wide receiver Chris Chambers, were handed to Jerry Gordon, Cedric Hooper, and an amazing 10 year old by the name of Eddie Hurowitz. At the age of 10, Eddie wrote a grant requesting art supplies for a homeless shelter that he volunteers at in an attempt to bring art to the homeless children of South Florida. Of the numerous grants written in this year, Eddie’s was chosen as the best.

Also recognized at this event were a number of high school players of the week and this year’s outstanding player of the year. A High School Coach of the Year was recognized aside from the Coaches of the Week that were announced. Then Dolphins Linebacker Zach Thomas presented the Junior Courage Award to Ronald Jackson, a young gentleman that took heart and displayed strength among his teammates after the loss of his mother. All-in-all, this years individually recognized community members were an outstanding example of great character and extraordinary achievement.

Following the community awards, the ceremony moved forward by the individual recognition and appearance of the 2007 Miami Dolphins Draft class. Beginning with the introduction of their final pick in the seventh round and moving in reverse each individual was recognized as he took the stage. Seventh round, sixth round, fourth round and through quarterback John Beck taken 40^th overall in the second round. Each of these individuals took the stage. All except the first round draft pick Ted Ginn, Jr., who remained absent from the stage after Randy Mueller announced his name, introducing the Miami Dolphins #1 draft pick of 2007.

Moving into the main events of the evening, John Offerdahl was introduced to the stage as the presenter of the 2006 Don Shula Leadership Award. Offerdahl, drafted in the second round in 1986, was a five time Pro Bowler out of Western Michigan University who played his entire career with the Dolphins from 1986 to 1993. The Don Shula Leadership Award is an award voted on by Dolphin players to recognize individuals that display leadership on and off the field. This year’s recipient was defensive end Jason Taylor, accepting the accolade for the second time (2002) in his career as a Miami Dolphin. Taylor took the opportunity in front of the podium to express his congratulations to all the recipients of this years community awards. He then proceeded to give his thanks to teammates, expressing his gratitude for their hard work and dedication to the organization.

The Nat Moore Community Service Award was presented next by none other than Nat Moore himself. Nat Moore was a wide receiver drafted in the third round of the 1974 draft by the Miami Dolphins. He spent his entire 13-year career from 1974 to 1986 with the team and is well known for his humanitarian services. He is the creator of The Nat Moore Foundation for disadvantaged youth in Miami-Dade County founded in 1998. This year he presented the Community Service Award to Safety Renaldo Hill. In 2003, Renaldo founded the “Top of the Hill Foundation,” an organization helping 11-17 year old orphans. He went to eight High Schools this past year for R.A.P. (Reaching and Accessing People) sessions, teaching Student Athletes about peer pressure, academics, family life, personal/school balance, and life after school. In Liberty City, Renaldo held a Back-to-School Program where he provided 21 children with backpacks, uniforms, and other school necessities. In the 2006 year he also held a Ticket Giveaway for the YMCA, visited a local school every week of the NFL season, built a home with Habitat for Humanity, provided food baskets or Thanksgiving Dinner to needy families, and provided clothes and toys to 21 families during Christmas.

The final Award of the evening was the Dan Marino Most Valuable Player Award, and although Marino himself wasn’t able to be present to present the award, Bob Griese was given the honor. The No. 1 draft choice in 1967, Bob Griese is a name that any true football fan would recognize. In his career as a Miami Dolphin, Griese led his team to three AFC titles and two Super Bowl wins. This year, Bob Griese was pleased to award the Dan Marino MVP Award to Jason Taylor, who was honored to be the recipient of two awards for this past season. Taylor lead his teams with 13.5 sacks this past season, he also recovered nine fumbles, and returned two interceptions for touchdowns, increasing his career touchdowns to seven. The Dolphins won all seven of his touchdown scoring games. Taylor also broke the 100 career sack plateau this season, was elected into the Pro Bowl, and received the NFL Player of the Year Award, only the third Dolphin to ever receive this honor. Since his draft in the 3^rd round in 1997, the Dolphins have ranked near the top in overall defense. A leader off the field, in the locker room, and on the field, Jason Taylor received hardy applause as he accepted his second award of the evening.

To cap off the end of the evening Miami Dolphins new head Coach Cam Cameron took the podium to give his keynote address. Met with cheers and applause Coach Cameron expressed his excitement over his new team in Miami. Looking ahead to great accomplishments in Miami, he points to the character of the players on the Dolphins. He states that character is a trait that should have already been established in an individual at this point in their life, and that the Dolphin organization has good character and that they drafted this year on character. Coach Cameron believes that such character brings strong work ethics, and team players that can work to refine their talent. So he closed out the evening, along with whistles and cheers as he stated into the microphone: “We are the Miami Dolphins…we will make you proud, and we promise you that together, together we will bring you a championship! Because we are the Miami Dolphins!”

Round One's Drafting Drama 2007

So I hope that nobody was shocked or surprised by the #1 pick of the 2007 draft. When NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell took his first ever walk to the podium to announce the Oakland Raiders decision to take the 6’6” 263lbs quarterback from Louisiana State, JaMarcus Russell, you had to just shrug your shoulders and say you knew that. The offensive-minded Al Davis loves a strong arm behind center, and he couldn’t pass up on the former junior QB who could toss a ball 80 yards down field. Just as the Raiders offense didn’t fool anyone on the field last year, their attempts to blow smoke in the direction of Adrian Peterson and Brady Quinn were never taken seriously.

The fact is, the draft started out on a very predictable level. Although many would say the Detroit Lions didn’t need to take yet another wide receiver in the draft, you’d have a difficult time arguing that Detroit didn’t take the most valuable player in the 2007. Calvin Johnson, a 6’4”, 237lbs. receiver from Georgia Tech, is the closest you’re going to find when looking for an NFL ready starter fresh out of college. He’s blessed with a size, strength and quickness that stand out over all the other receivers in this draft and his college stats aren’t bad either. Chalking up 2,151 receiving years, 121 receptions and 20 touchdown-scoring catches in only 28 games definitely makes him a stand-out player.

What did come as a shock would be the fate of Notre Dame Quarterback, Brady Quinn. Expected by most to go to the Cleveland Browns on the third pick, the 6’3”, 226lbs quarterback was passed over for the Wisconsin offensive tackle Joe Thomas. Many had felt that if Cleveland didn’t take Quinn, they would probably be moving down in the draft. With a need to fill numerous area on their roster, more picks during the duration of the draft might have proven useful. However, Joe Thomas did address one of their needs on the line of scrimmage.

As for the possibility of Quinn going to Tampa Bay, Arizona, or Washington: many felt these teams had other needs besides a quarterback. The Minnesota Vikings were the next team in line that had a need to fill a quarterback position. Of course, that depended on whether or not the Miami Dolphins could trade up with Washington in their attempt to acquire Quinn. But Quinn would continue to fall. Miami didn’t make the move to jump ahead of Minnesota and the Vikings chose to pass on Quinn as well. Announcers and fans alike couldn’t believe that Quinn would actually drop into the lap of the Miami Dolphins. Just like when Dan Marino fell to Miami in the 1983 draft, Cam Cameron’s decision or inability to move up in the draft seemed about to pay off. Not that Brady Quinn is in any position to be compared to Marino at this point of his career, but the need for a quarterback was about to be filled. Or was it?

The largest blunder of the first round of the 2007 Draft has to go to the Miami Dolphins. As the Miami Dolphins took the clock at number nine the camera closed in on Quinn who had expectations of going to Miami. The city of Miami had expectations of Quinn coming to Miami. Only Coach Cameron had other plans as he made the shocker of the afternoon by taking Ted Ginn Jr. from Ohio State. Once again Quinn had been passed over. Miami had fumbled their chance at a quarterback for a wide receiver who had injured himself celebrating in the opening of the BCS title game. A wiry 6’0” 180lbs receiver who will need extensive improvement on his footwork, pass routes, and holding onto the ball, Ginn has difficulty beating press coverage and will back away from a pass across the middle.

Ironically, Quinn did have his day when Cleveland made the bold maneuver to trade up with Dallas to number twenty-two and obtain Quinn before he might have fallen to the Kansas City Chiefs. Quinn, who grew up a Browns fan in Dublin, Ohio, let out an obvious sigh of relief in front of the cameras, then took the stage with his Browns jersey to shake the commissioner’s hand.

Few other big moves were made within round one. The New York Jets traded up with Carolina to fill their need at cornerback with Pittsburgh’s Darrelle Revis, and Denver sacrificed too much in order to move up four picks in order to obtain a defensive end in Jarvis Moss. Although Jarvis Moss is an extraordinary pass rusher that stands 6’6” and weighs in at 251, one would have to believe Denver could have waited four picks to fill that position. Chances are, Moss could have still been available. New England stepped forward in order to grab hold of free safety Brandon Meriweather out of Miami and Dallas moved back into the first round courtesy of a trade with Philadelphia. At pick number twenty-six, Dallas acquired Purdue’s defensive end Anthony Spencer.

So round one of the 2007 draft has come and gone. The only true test of who scored big and who bombed will come with time. Can JaMarcus Russell be the turning point for the struggling Oakland Raiders? Is Calvin Johnson really the outstanding athlete we’ve all claimed him to be on the professional level? And did Miami know something we didn’t when they passed on Brady Quinn? Or will this be a mirror of the Texans choice to pass up Reggie Bush in 2006? Only time will tell who know it and who blew it, and we haven’t even started that timer yet.

2007 Schedules have been decided!!!

For all to us that live for the NFL Football season, the schedules have been set. Although at this point you may still find it difficult to get a fully displayed schedule on NFL.com, Sportsline.com, or anywhere for that matter, a few games have leaked. So what are these games you might ask? Well, for all of you who haven't gotten word yet, let me fill you in just a little bit.

This year promises to begin with a bang! The NFL has set opening week to score big with NFL enthusiasts. Many had hoped for a Colts / Saints Super Bowl to top off last years season. We'll, the NFL says that if you can't finish 2006 with that game, why not start 2007 with it. The opening game of the season this year will begin on a Thursday with a match up between the Indianapolis Colts hosting the New Orleans Saints! A beautiful game set up between the Super Bowl Champions and last years Cinderella story.

For those of you who thought the San Diego Chargers were primed and ready to charge their way into Miami, they will open their season hosting a match up with the NFC Champions Chicago Bears on opening Sunday.

If your an NFC East Fan, then Sunday nights game is for you! The NFC East will open up their division rivalries with a match up between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys.

Once again this year, we can look forward to duel Monday Night Match ups. AFC North will open the first 2007 Monday Night Football game with the match up of the Cincinnati Bengals going head-to-head with the Baltimore Ravens. This match up between the high powered offense of Cincinnati and the stifling defense of Baltimore should prove to be an exciting game. With all this excitement in the first weekend of the NFL, you can plan an early night on Monday and retire to bed early as the late night match up will consist of the NFC West's worst last year. The San Francisco 49ers try to continue to improve on last year record as they open against the Arizona Cardinals, a franchise that has made a history of failure regardless of the immense talents they have housed over the years.

So that's it, a taste of the next season. Games worth watching from day one. It's still some time off, but it's something to look forward too. Are you ready for some football???

Denver Broncos RB Damien Nash Collapses and Dies

I've just read a report by St. Louis CBS4's Gary Miller reporting that Damien Nash of the Denver Broncos has collapsed dead at a charity basketball game in St. Louis. It is official, the Denver Broncos have confirmed this report.

Nash was only 24 years old.

President/CEO of the Broncos Pat Bowlen has said, "The Denver Broncos organization is once again struck with profound sadness over the tragic loss of one of our players. This is a tremendous tragedy and our hearts go out to the entire Nash family." (Quoted from DenverBroncos.com)

"The Broncos Family has suffered a great loss with the passing of Damien Nash," Head Coach Mike Shanahan said. "I am stunned and deeply saddened by this tragedy, and send my deepest condolences to Damien's family." (Quoted from DenverBroncos.com)

During injuries and running back shuffles in the 2006 season, Damien Nash saw action in three games. He was a former player of the University of Missouri and was claimed off waivers from the Tennesse Titans. Starting out as a member of the practice squad he was later promoted to roster and played in matchups against the Raiders, Chargers, and Chiefs.

At this time, no cause for the collapse has been released. CBS4's Gary Miller reported that Officials at Christian Hospital in St. Louis have not yet determined the cause of death. Nash died early Saturday evening.

Peyton Manning: Fame or Failure Revised

--This is a revisement of the first original post. Instead of replacing the old post, I've decided to just post the newer version side by side with the old. The newer version uses less stats, but has better flow and writing...actually, you be the judge.--


Peyton Manning has been a hot topic of discussion in break rooms, at water coolers, with friends, with strangers, on sports news, and during in game commentaries for years. There’s been talk about how great a quarterback he is and arguments about how he chokes during the biggest games of his career. Anyone who supports him will talk about his records and highlights while all those that criticize him point to each of his losses in the playoffs and his failure to achieve a Super Bowl victory. Regardless of whether Peyton Manning ever achieves a Super Bowl Victory he will most certainly be admitted into the Hall of Fame as one of the greatest quarterbacks in history.

In 1998, the Indianapolis Colts chose to take Peyton Manning as the #1 overall pick in the NFL draft and have been rewarded with one of the best quarterback careers in history. His poise and self control on the field demands respect as he stands solid in the pocket to consistently deliver fast and accurate passing up the field to his receivers. Although Peyton can show great control over his own skills and allow himself to make big plays when a game requires it, his greatness as a quarterback goes beyond his own athletic ability. Great quarterbacks have to be great leaders, and Peyton has been a commanding figure on the field. This is evident in his leadership on the field. Although many find Peyton’s play calling and last minute changes at the line of scrimmage entertaining, it is a testimony to his ability to think quickly, read a defense, and make the proper adjustments in a moments notice.

As if Peyton Manning’s impressive play on the field isn’t enough to convince anyone of his place among the NFL’s legends, his mark in the record book should be. He has consistently broken records throughout his nine year NFL career and currently holds numerous individual, rookie, and QB-WR tandem NFL records as well as about a dozen Colts team records. He has received numerous accolades that include the 2003 Co-MVP with Steve McNair1, 2004 MVP, 2005 Pro Bowl MVP, 2003 and 2004 Bert Bell Award, and several Player of the week and month awards. His team records include Most Passes (575), most completions (326), most yards gained (3,739), and most touchdowns (26) in a rookie season among many other game and season records. Some of his NFL records consist of seven 4,000+ yard seasons, six consecutive 4,000+ yard seasons, nine consecutive seasons with 25+ touchdown passes, 49 touchdowns in one season, season passer rating of 121.1, and 4 games with perfect passer ratings (10/22/00 vs. New England; 11/10/02 at Philadelphia; 9/28/03 at New Orleans; 1/4/04 vs. Denver). With the possibility of several years left in his career, it is possible that Manning will continue to break several more career and season records before his retirement.

It seems that no matter how many records Peyton Manning continues to break, critics continue to concern themselves over Manning’s lack of a Super Bowl title. A Super Bowl victory is the goal and dream of every player in the NFL, and it recognizes great teams for their crowning achievement, but not every player on a Super Bowl team is worthy of the Hall of Fame status. Although winning a Super Bowl would help compliment Manning’s stellar career as an NFL Player, his admittance into the Hall of Fame is what will set him aside as one of the greats in NFL history. It is Peyton Manning’s record breaking career, spectacular play, and athleticism on the field that has him destined for the Hall of Fame where he will be a legend among legends.

Peyton Manning: Fame or Failure?

Peyton Manning has been a hot topic of discussion in break rooms, at water coolers, with friends, with strangers, on sports news, and during in game commentaries for years. There’s been talk about how great a quarterback he is and arguments about how he chokes during the biggest games of his career. Anyone who supports him will talk about his records and highlights while all those that criticize him point to each of his losses in the Playoffs and his failure to achieve a Super Bowl victory. However, it is this writer’s opinion that a game victory is a team achievement, while records reflect the statistics of the player. Regardless of whether Peyton Manning ever achieves a Super Bowl Victory he will most certainly be admitted into the Hall of Fame as one of the greatest Quarterbacks in history.

Peyton Manning has been shattering records since he set foot on a college football field. In 1994, Manning began playing for the University of Tennessee Volunteers during his freshman year. By his sophomore year he had already started to set team records, setting the single season passing yardage record after throwing for 2,954 yards. In 1996, he not only passed his own single season passing record with 3,287 yards, but he also set a new single game passing record with 492 yards. Completing his final year as a senior in Tennessee, Peyton Manning continued to out do himself again by resetting the single game passing record with 523 yards and the Season record with 3,819 yards. He even shattered Andy Kelly‘s (1988-91) and Heath Shuler’s (1991-93) tie of 36 career touchdowns, by finishing his college career with a record smashing 89 passing touchdowns. Peyton Manning left Tennessee holding 2 NCAA, 7 SEC, 33 Tennessee, 10 season, and 7 game records to highlight his college career.

In 1998, the Indianapolis Colts chose to take Peyton Manning as the #1 overall pick in the NFL draft and have been rewarded with one of the best quarterback careers in history. Seemingly without missing a beat, Peyton Manning has continued to break records consistently during his nine year NFL career. He currently holds 10 individual, 5 rookie, and 3 QB-WR tandem NFL records and also has 12 Colts team records, and has received numerous accolades including the 2003 Co-MVP with Steve McNair, 2004 MVP, 2005 Pro Bowl MVP, 2003 and 2004 Bert Bell Award, and several Player of the week and month awards. His team records include Most Passes (575), most completions (326), most yards gained (3,739), and most touchdowns (26) in a rookie season among many other game and season records. Some of his NFL records consist of seven 4,000+ yard seasons, six consecutive 4,000+ yard seasons, nine consecutive seasons with 25+ touchdown passes, 49 touchdowns in one season, season passer rating of 121.1, and 4 games with perfect passer ratings(most of any QB since the rating was created in 1973). With the possibility of several years left in his career, it is possible that Manning will continue to break several more career and season records before his retirement.

It seems that no matter how many records Peyton Manning continues to break, critics continue to concern themselves over Manning’s lack of a Super Bowl title. They often refer to the career of Dan Marino of the Miami Dolphins, pointing to all the records that Mario set, but his own failure to achieve the greatness that comes with the status of a Super Bowl victory; However, Marino has been inducted into the Hall of Fame, and anyone with a little knowledge about football can tell you who Marino was or at least recognize his name in a conversation. Super Bowl victories are the goal and dreams of every player in the NFL, and recognize great teams for their crowning achievement, but not every player on a Super Bowl team is worthy of fame status. Winning a Super Bowl doesn’t gain admittance into the Hall of Fame. Although winning a Super Bowl would help compliment Manning’s stellar career as an NFL Player, his admittance into the Hall of Fame is what will set him aside as one of the greats in NFL history. Regardless, of his success in the Super Bowl, Manning’s record breaking career has already propelled him into greatness. His spectacular play and athleticism on the field has him destined for the Hall of Fame where he will be a legend among legends.

Silver Dragon

Cinderella Saints

Seeing as how the Saints have made it to the NFC Championship game and could very well be on their way to the Super Bowl with a win over the Chicago Bears this weekend, I thought it would be interesting to take a look back to a thread I posted on the CBS message board back in September right after the they defeated the Falcons in week 3. I said they could go 10-6 in the regular season and be in the Playoffs...who would have guessed how close I was.

September 26, 2006 2:53 pm

Are the Saints for real? I, for one, am not ready to jump onto the Saints bandwagon, but after last night the NFL has to take notice. The 2000 season was the last time the Saints had a decent record in the NFL with a 10-6 record and a first place in the NFC West. It was also the last time they made a Playoff appearance. Since then they have gone 7-9 and 3rd in 2001, 9-7 and 3rd in 2002, 8-8 and 2nd in 2003 and 2004. Last year was the worst having gone 3-13 and placing last in the NFC South.

Can you blame the Saints for thier record last year? After Hurricane Katrina left devastation in New Orleans and all down the Gulf Coast. They were forced to play all their home games in distant stadiums. How can you have crowd support when your no where near your crowd? Their first home game was at the Giants Stadium. They called it a Saints home game, painted the field Saints, but the crowd noise was so obviously Giants! Not to mention that back home, homes where in ruins, families were seperated, and an entire string of communities were wiped out.

So here we are in 2006 and still New Orleans is still in disrepair. But the folks of New Orleans are beginning to show signs of life and the repair of the Superdome has only brought more excitement to the community. So the Saints start out the season 2-0 with victories over the Browns 19-14 and the Packers 34-27, but who notices? No one outside of Saints fans, these aren't considered big games or wins. In fact, everyone(and this does include me, I picked the Falcons)expected the Falcons powerful run offense to dominate the Saints. Sports journalist were heard saying all week the the perfect script would be for a Saints Victory, but they picked the Falcons to win feeling it a script that would never be written.

So where are we now?
Drew Brees threw 20/28 for 191 yards
Deuce McAllister had 19 carries for 81 yards/ 4 receptions for 13 yards
Reggie Bush had 13 carries for 53 yards/4 receptions for 19 yards
Devery Henderson had 2 receptions for 15 yards and 1 carry on the end around for an 11 yard TD!
Marques Colston had 7 receptions for 97 yards
and Joe Horn had 3 receptions for 47 yards
All while the Saints Defense held the Powerful Falcon Run game to 117 yards

Saints win 23-3 over the Falcons!!!

So what about the future of the Saints? Could this be a Cinderella year? All the Home games in New Orleans have sold out for the first time in team history! The Fans are in to it! Drew Brees was capable in San Diego with the Chargers, why not the Saints? McAllister looks good, drafting Bush was a huge positive, and Joe Horn has been of the injured list this year. If the Defense can stop Atlanta then they may have hope. So how do they look now? It's very possible they could beat the Panthers next week. Taking the Buccaneers may be easier than everyone thought at the beginning of the year. That's a possible 5-0 start!!! The Eagles will post the next big game on the schedule. Over the next three weeks, is it possible to build enough momentum to win that game, at home I might add?

So could the Saints be Superbowl bound? Well, maybe that's getting a little ahead of things. I wouldn't go that far yet. How about Playoff bound? Does that suddenly seem plausible? I think it's possible for the Saint to go 10-6 this year if thier momentum doesn't change...maybe even 12-4 if they can rise to the task of beating the Steelers and the Giants who are good, but looking a little shakey these last two weeks. Those are both away games too. What do you think? Cinderella Saints or another year for the New Orlean aints?

Silver Dragon

Dragon's Pick - Jaguars Vs Chiefs

Jaguars Vs Chiefs

1:00pm EST

Arrowhead Stadium

Sunday, December 30, 2006

Something I've been wanting to do all season is a weekly pick of a big game and my personal breakdown and thoughts on that game. Being that this is the last week of the regular season, it's a little late, but I'm still going to lay this one out, and look to next years season to make this a regular weekly post along with all my picks. So here it goes.

Jacksonville enters into this final game on the outside looking in for a wild card spot. They desperately need the win to gain even a glimmer of hope in the post season, but a win isn't all they need. If the Jaguars pull off this win they would also need the N.Y. Jets to lose, the Cincinnati Bengals to lose, and the Tennessee Titans to lose. The Jaguars are currently power ranked 13th by CBS and ESPN, and 12th by Fox. Their statistical rankings offensively is 9th overall. Breaking down to 10th in total yards averaging 335.1 yards per game, 2nd in the rushing yards averaging 162.5 yards per game and 26th in passing yards averaging 172.6 yards per game. On Defense they are statictically ranked #4. Defensive ranking consisting of 2nd in total yards averaging 276.2 yards per game, 3rd in rushing yards averaging 86.0 yards per game, and 11th in passing yards averaging 190.2 yards per game.

Kansas City is also another team on the outside looking in for a wild card spot this week, needing a win to remain a candidate for a berth, but also needing assistance. In order for Kansas City to make the playoffs they would need Cincinnati Bengals to lose or tie, Denver Broncos to lose or tie, and Tennessee Titans to lose or tie as well as win thier own final game. CBS has Kansas City power ranked 12th overall, were ESPN and Fox have them ranked 14th. Thier offensive ranking under statistics is 9th overall. They are currently 16th in total yards averaging 316.5 yards per game, 8th in rushing yards averaging 131.5 yards per game, and 21st in passing yards averaging 185.0 yards per game. On the defensive side of the ball the Chiefs are ranked 9th overall. This consists of a 15th rank in total yards allowed at 324.3 yards per game, 18th in rushing yards allowing 131.5 yards per game, and 14th in passing yards allowing 203.3 yards per game.

Alright, aside for what the big boys of sports have broken down for rankings on these two teams, who's going to win and how?

Arrowhead stadium is one of NFL's most difficult stadiums for an away team to play in. The fans are active, loud, and give a solid 12th man to thier Chiefs. Jacksonville will enter Arrowhead stadium this week for thier final game of the regular season to face a Kansas City team that is 5-2 at home. Looking to overcome some of their own issues on the road, the Jaguars have been a meger 2-5 in thier road games. As much as this game favors the home team, I'm not convinced the Chief are guaranteed any victory here by a long shot.

The Chief #18 run defense is going to have to face the #2 run offense in the league as they go up against the Jaguars. Fred Taylor(listed probable - Hamstring) is a very capable running back that has been averaging 5 yards per carry through the season, racking up 1120 yards and 5 touchdowns; However, Taylor is only the beginning of the Chiefs worries in the run game. Maurice Jones-Drew(listed probable - Knee) has been a fast rising rookie that is dominating in his run game. His average yards per carry is currently at 5.8 and he's managed to chalk up 12 touchdown for the Jacksonville offense this season. Combine these two running backs and turn them loose on a defense that is allowing an average of 121 yards per game and this could spell disaster for the Chiefs. The key to victory for the Jaguars lies with the run game. They need to manage the clock, stick to thier run game, and can't fall behind. If the Jaguars find themselves in a catch up situation they will be forcing thier #26 pass offense to overcome the #14 pass defense.

The Chiefs face an even bigger problem on thier offense. As much as Larry Johnson is considered a premier running back in the NFL, averaging 4.3 yards a carry with 14 touchdowns on the season, this matchup may be difficult for him as he faces the #3 rushing defense this week. Needing to establish a run game, L.J. and the Chiefs must do so against a defense that has only been allowing an average 86 rushing yards per game. If unable to run the ball, Trent Green will be forced to take to the air, something he's been having trouble with since his return. With Jacksonville ranked 11th against the pass they could easily find themselves creating problems for Trent Greens' air game.

All in all, I'm expecting a Jacksonville victory. Predicted final score 24-13 Jacksonville. Neither team makes the playoffs.

-Silver Dragon


Jacksonville Jaguars -Power Rank -#13 CBS, #13 ESPN, #12 Fox
#9 statistical offensive
-#10 total yards, 335.1, #2 Rushing yards, 162.5, #26 Passing yards, 172.6
#4 statistical Defensive
-#2 total yards, 276.2, #3 Rushing yards, 86.0, #11 Passing yards, 190.2

Kansas City Chiefs # 12 CBS, #14 Espn, #14 Fox
# 16 offensively
-#16 total yards, 316.5, #8 Rushing yards, 131.5, #21 Passing yards, 185.0
#9 Defensively
-#15 Total yards, 324.3, #18 Rushing yards, 121.0, #14 Passing yards, 203.3

The Future of Denver: Jay Cutler

As a Broncos fan I could only hope that this is an insight of things to come. Denver finally broke it's losing streak, but it was against the Cardinals. Next week will be a more true test of whether Jay Cutler is settling in to the Quarterback position in Denver. He did look good however after tossing 21/31 for 261 yards, 2 TDs, and 1 INT. His completions were much better, he tossed a few more this week, and he racked up a few yards and a couple touchdowns. What I liked to see was the 54 yard toss he launched down the field to Javon Walker. WHAT AN ARM!!!

I think Broncos fans have something to be excited about. We're still in the running for the playoffs. After todays win we currently hold a wild card spot pending the outcome of the Chargers / Chiefs game that is currently on. I believe that if the Chiefs can pull off the upset tonight that the Broncos would be bumped back into the running. The Chiefs had the tie breaker with the Broncos the last I checked. Not that it would be the end of the world. Denvers destiny is still in thier own hands. Winning out thier last two games would insure them a spot in the playoffs because they would have to knock off the Bengals in Mile High next week. Taking the Bengals out would put Denver in regardless of the Chargers / Chiefs outcome tonight.

Whatever the outcome this year, Broncos Fans should be looking forward to the years ahead for Denver. The offense looks fantastic, on paper, for the future. Lots of Rookies and young players that have a lot of promise. Jay Cutler is the most noticable in the front, but Tony Scheffler at the Tight End position is looking great. To early to say for sure, he has the look of a great TE like Antonio Gates, Alge Crumpler, Jeremy Shockey, I could go on. Broncos fans have been excited about the off season pick up of Javon Walker, and he looks to be settling in well as a big play maker in Denver. The other rookie of note would be Brandon Marshall. If Cutler settles into a comfort zone in Denver he will have an arsenal of wide recievers to choose from.
Don't count Denver out this year however, it's still a possibility that they could make a run. Not only into the playoffs, but through them. There is still a lot of work to be done, and it might not happen, but the talent and the players are there. If it all comes together over the next two weeks, it could be possible.

Regardless of a playoff run this year or not, keep an eye on Jay Cutler and the Denver Broncos.

-Silver Dragon