Ok, I adimit it.  I am always on edge when Eli stands back, tries to guess what the defense is giving him, while all our players fidgit and sqirm while they try to figure out in the last four seconds before the snap what they are suposed to do. Inevitably  the clock winds down to the last two seconds and everyone on offence is struggling to get set and prepare for the things Eli pointed out while the defense, under no such posture restrictions gets a good running start since with two seconds left they know exactly when to start their rush.

When the shotgun first came into vogue, teams like the Cowboys used it primarily when they had to pass and both teams knew it.  Defenses weren't all that sophisticated then and guys like Staubach used the quick look at the field while they were taking the snap to determine what coverage he was up against.

Now that Peyton has taken the shotgun to it's highest level everyone wants to imitate him.  Don't get me wrong.  I think the shotgun has it's place in the game plan.  I just think there is good reason to stay under center more often and these are the reasons why I think that.

1. Play action passing.   There is no better way to execute a play action pass than from under center.  Since the quarterback is running away from the defensive players they get less of a look at the ball and are more easily fooled.  In the game against the Cardinals I don't remember seeing one good play action fake in the entire game.

2.Time management.   When you just walk up to the line of scrimmage and have 15 seconds or so to snap the ball it gives the offense the edge.  This is true because inevitably the defense against our shotgun faints and dictates our plays by moving into what appears to be a certain look, then changes as the count runs down.  Suddenly Eli decides to change the play or (futily) point someone out who is setting up to blitz.  This gives the defense the edge since they might as well  know the snapcount when the clock is nearly zero.

3.  Offensive mindset.  I think we are often tentative while in the shotgun, trying more to finess the defense rather than making them reacdft to us.  In Sunday's game aginst the Cardinals my favorite series was the one where we put in two tight ends and blasted the run at the defense.  This resulted in two good runs and left us a third and two.  As I recall we didn't run for the two yards and endied up punting one more time.  As good as the Cardinal defense is against the run, I think we could have run the ball enough had we tried to make our passing game more effective.  Personlly I think we can run against any team in the league if we just commit to it.

Well, what do you think?

I just watched the PTI interview a few minutes ago with Mike Tomlin and I was impressed.  Many times when you see an interview with a head coach he mouths the words that we have come to expect from these types of interviews.  Not Mike.  He invited  Jerome Bettis to put the helmet back on and show the Steelers what he's got.  And you know what?  he just might be able to still do it!

Of course I like our coach too.  Tom coughlin has overcome adversity to become one of the premier coaches in the league.  But it wouldn't surprise me if your guy has a hall of fame career in Pittsburgh

It looks like Toomer will be playing pitch and catch with Matt Cassel this year.  He will bring a great veteran attitude to a team that needs some life in it's offense.  Frankly I'm surprised he didn't find a home sooner.  If I were a Chiefs fan I would be extremely happy about the deal.  Over on Arrowhead Pride they are comparing Toomer with great veterans like Zack Thomas and Mike Vrabel.  The young receivers he will compliment would do well to learn all they can from the old "well dressed" Amani.

It seems like yesterday when I saw this live.  It's as good now as it was then.  What a personality that team had.  Please note that in 1986 we had no big name wide receivers.  The spirit of that team was incredible.  I can't begin to tell you how excited I was in 1986.  Especially after the 85 debacle against the Bears.  I wonder how many of us saw the game live.  Enjoy it one more time. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kn8b4l6T3Q&feature=related

ESPN has just reported that Brandon Jacobs signed a four-year deal for $25 million.  This is a good deal for both parties and ensures that our #1 back is here to stay and happy.   With Bradshaw and Ware as backups our running game should be able to survive the loss of Derrick Ward. 

In other developments the Bucs have released just about all their big name veterans, including Dunn, Brooks, and Galloway.  I guess they figure it's time for a youth movement.