SB Nation User Blog: jaws1385

The Playoff Picture: NFC East And Beyond

jaws1385 — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 17:36:19 -0000

The 2009 playoff picture as it so stands:

First, what we already know: the Eagles stand at 7-4, good for second in the division and are one of the two teams firmly in place for a wild card spot (the other being Green Bay). The Cowboys are currently in the driver's seat, albeit only by a game, at 8-3. The Giants are floundering after their latest loss, an embarassing 26-6 effort against Denver, which has them at 6-5. The Redskins, at 3-8, are all but eliminated from playoff contention at this point. So the race for the NFC East title is, at least for the time being, between two teams, which runs contrary to the preseason suppositions that had three teams vying for the crown. Here's the outlook for the NFC East over the remaining five weeks:

EAGLES

Next up, we have the Falcons, followed by the Giants, 49ers, Broncos and Cowboys. This is not an easy road to go down by any stretch of the imagination. The Birds are capable of beating or losing to any one of these teams, so they have to take special care and minimize injuries as best they can. If anything will be our undoing, it will be injuries to key players. Inconsistency and playcalling can be improved, but injuries are kryptonite to playoff hopes. Furthermore, the team must address another glaring problem, which happens to be the number 3. As in 3rd down. As in the offense can't seem to convert on 3rd down consistently, and the defense can't seem to hold their opponent on 3rd down. This has got to change right away if the Eagles are going to make the playoffs, and certainly if they want to challenge for the division title.

The way I see it, the Falcons are in huge trouble without Matt Ryan and Michael Turner. Ryan gives them the best chance to win when he's under center, and Turner when healthy is very difficult to stop, so with them out of the picture, there's not a whole lot about that team that scares me other than Tony Gonzalez. Eagles should win this Battle of the Birds in A-Town.

The Giants are struggling to keep their heads above water, mired in third place behind us and Dallas. At 6-5 they're hardly finished, but this team can't seem to shake the injury bug, with the latest victims being Eli Manning and Antonio Pierce. Even though Eli swears his ailments won't hinder his play or keep him sidelined, Big Blue has major issues. This game will be at the Meadowlands, so they'll have home-field advantage, but will it be enough? I don't think so, not after playing against Dallas the week before. Eagles win.

The 49ers are an enigmatic team. They've shown they can be competitive, but at 5-6 they're still on the outside looking in. They've got some serious talent in that locker room (Gore, Davis, Crabtree, Willis to name a few) but I get the sense that they're still a season or two away from being serious contenders. Make no mistake though; these ain't the 49ers of Mike Nolan. Mike Singletary seems to have this team headed in the right direction. Birds win, but I don't think it's gonna be a rout this time.

I had the Eagles at 11-5 this season, so according to my calculations, they'd be 10-4 by the time they face the Broncos but then lose. And unfortunately, I think they will lose this one. The Broncos have a good team in place, even though consistency issues dog them. Like us, they showed they can beat good teams (they beat Dallas in October) but lose to bad ones also (they lost to Washington). Our shaky offensive line could have problems containing Elvis Dumervil and Co. This is a big game because it's Dawk's homecoming party (I can't wait to hear the roar of the crowd when his name's called on the PA system), and we'll be supporting him, even though we want his team to lose. This'll be a close one, but I think the Birds will come up short.

Now we come to the last game of the season, and of course it's a matchup with Dallas. And man, does their remaining schedule SUCK. They've gotta play the Giants, Chargers, Saints (Woo-Hoo!), Skins (who they only beat by 1 last time), and then us. If I'm Wade Philips, the flop sweat is now pouring from my moobies. They're gonna be beat to hell by the time we line up against them in Big D, so I'm counting on their fatigue to get the better of them. They could possibly beat the Chargers, but I just don't see them beating the Saints. How's this for a scenario: once again, it's Philly and Dallas head-to-head just like last season. The NFC East division title goes to the winner. And that winner...is us.

COWBOYS

Their five-game home stretch is hellish, as I said above. Beating the Giants and the Redskins isn't exactly gonna be any kind of a cakewalk, but then they gotta play San Diego, New Orleans, and then us?! It really works out beautifully. I hope that New Orleans helps us out and doesn't rest their starters for the playoff push or anything...that'd suck. But they're pursuing perfection, and Drew Brees is a consummate competitor, so I don't see it happening. Both we and the Boys should be 10-5 by the time our matchup rolls around. I think, excitingly enough, that the NFC East race will go down to the wire and be decided when we play them at season's end.

GIANTS

The G-Men are gonna have a very rough time of it for the remainder of the season with the problems they have. Word just came down that Antonio Pierce was placed on injured reserve, so he's done for the year. Eli Manning is hurting, despite what he says, and the guys they have healthy aren't getting the job done. They've gotta play Dallas, then us, then the Skins, Carolina, and they finish up with...ouch...Minnesota. They're 6-5 now, and I don't see them beating Dallas, us, or Minnesota. Injuries and lack of heart will drop this team to 8-8 and out of contention.

REDSKINS

Stick a fork in 'em. Someone should tell Jim Zorn that there's no shame in cutting your losses early: he and his beleaguered team still have to face the Saints, Cowboys, and Chargers. Welcome to the top ten of the 2010 draft, boys.

OTHER NFC PLAYOFF CONTENDERS (excluding division leaders):

There is a huge disparity in the NFC this season. Three teams (New Orleans, Minnesota, Arizona) are running away with their divisions while the race remains tight only in the East. There are two clear Wild Card teams, and only two other teams with even a remote chance of making the playoffs:

GREEN BAY PACKERS

We are currently paired with the Packers as the top two Wild Card teams in the NFC. Their remaining opponents are the Ravens, Bears, Steelers, Seahawks and Cardinals. I think the Ravens, Steelers, and Cardinals can definitely beat them, but will they? The Pack is 7-4 right now, like us, and I like the way Aaron Rodgers is playing. I'd actually root for him to get to the playoffs to face down Brett Favre again and beat him and his Vikings. I see the Packers losing two in this stretch, to Baltimore and Pittsburgh. I think they'll be a wild card team at season's end, with a final record of 10-6.

ATLANTA FALCONS

Atlanta's outlook would certainly be brighter if Matt Ryan and Michael Turner weren't hurt. They currently stand at 6-5, but they play us next and then division rivals (and NFC juggernaut) New Orleans. Losses to these teams should put them on the fringes of playoff contention. Their other opponents in this stretch are the Jets, Bills and Bucs. 9-7 seems very likely.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

At 5-6, you wouldn't think that the Niners were in contention, but they are. The only two teams that should scare them in their remaining schedule are the Birds and the Cardinals. Other than that, they play the lowly Seahawks, Lions, and Rams. It's rotten luck for them that they should wrap up the last quarter of the season with three really lousy teams and two good ones. Remember, though, they beat the Cardinals in their previous meeting. They could very well go 4-1 in the last 5 weeks to finish above .500. Too little, too late though; once again, I think the Packers and the Cowboys will take those wild card spots.

10 Simple Steps For Improvement: Some Polite Suggestions From A Timid Observer

jaws1385 — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:35:41 -0000

Howdy-doo, boys. Been away for a while but I'm back. Let's get right to bidness...after the Dallas and San Diego losses it's natural to start pointing the finger and getting discouraged. But my new Zen approach to the Eagles has me thinking otherwise. There are certainly holes in this team, but there's still time to right the ship. As far as I'm concerned, it's still anyone's division. The Eagles can climb back into this thing, and here's how they can do it:

OFFENSE

1. Focus on the offensive line during practice. Right now, this group should be the first guys on the field and the last guys off. The pass protection has been okay, but the run blocking has been terrible. Attention, Juan Castillo: we don't have big bruisers at RB. We currently have LeSean McCoy, who is Westbrook 2.0, and Eldra Buckley, who will probably be bagging groceries this time next year. They can't muscle their way for first downs like they're Earl Campbell or something. Injuries have been a major issue for this unit, but not so much that they can't improve on opening up holes. Even in a pass-first offense, you need the running game to open up the air game.

2. Use Brent Celek more. He's currently the team's most reliable pass-catcher, in and out of the red zone. Andy and Marty seem too fixated on trying to stretch the field; sure, watching DeSean Jackson get wide open and score a 75-yard TD is fun and good for a score in a pinch, but opposing defensive coordinators have already keyed to him. Sending Celek over the middle more often will draw double-teams and allow the offense to spread the ball to guys like McCoy and Jason Avant. Remember how well throwing the ball to B-West just a few yards upfield used to work? Plus, it'll eat more of the clock. Why try to go for the quick strike and risk coming up short when you can use up time and set up a good balance of the pass and run?

3. Be less conservative. Usually, Andy and Marty strive to be creative in their playcalling, and I think they've gone a little conservative of late because they're realizing that the Wildcat hasn't worked out like they'd hoped. Trading field goals for touchdowns when you're in the middle of a playoff race? That dog just ain't gonna hunt. Using McCoy and Eldra Buckley on the goal line isn't the answer. Leonard Weaver would be better here. Celek at the back of the end zone would be too; fade routes, anyone? And when you're out of the red zone, utilize the screen pass more; no team in the NFL runs it better, and now's a good time for McCoy to pick up where Westbrook left off and learn from the master. And how about letting Michael Vick uncork one once in a while? This is a guy who used to throw 70 yards in the air from a knee, so why not let him throw deep on occasion?

4. More L-Train! Why sign a true fullback if you're not gonna use him enough? LeSean McCoy and Weaver could be an explosive one-two punch in the backfield. I thought he was brought in to help cure our short-yardage woes. For god's sake, he's a fullback who ran away from defenders! That's saying something! Andy and Marty have to put their heads together on this one; he's also a good pass-catcher who can swing out of the backfield on a screen. Having not one but two rushers that can do this? Siiiick.

5. More Jason Avant. He could be a starter somewhere else, and his performance on Sunday proved it. He has the best hands of any receiver on the team, and he's not afraid to get hit. Even though he's not particularly fast, he's good at gaining yards after the catch with his toughness and athleticism. I don't know why we haven't seen him in the slot more often.

DEFENSE

1. LEARN TO TACKLE! This arm-tackling and body-checking garbage is getting us nowhere. Calling Asante Samuel! What happened to wrapping and driving? Sean McDermott has to let his unit know that their fundamentals are going by the wayside, so this should be focused upon in practice.

2. More Jason Babin. The guy has shown he can be a disruptive force off the edge; he has 2.5 sacks in 4 games. I believe he should get a shot at starter over the mediocre Juqua Parker. Other disappointments include Chris Clemons and Victor Abiamiri; they haven't done much of anything. In Abiamiri's case, he can't seem to stay healthy. Having Babin in there from the start might keep the opposing offensive line honest, and he could wind up being an excellent complement to Trent Cole.

3. Blitz 'em early. I think McDermott needs to set a tone by blitzing the bejesus out of the opponent on the first drive. Sure, he's been using the old Jim Johnson blitz packages, but he needs to learn to adapt to the opposing offense when it starts to read blitz. Keep 'em guessing, Sean. You just gotta let your boys know they need more pressure on the QB.

4. Stop giving opposing receivers so much respect. It seems like the secondary has become a liability with its soft-coverage schemes, giving receivers who don't deserve it way too much space. Let them try to deflect more passes on man coverage than try to play catch-up when the completion's already been made. With the talent of Asante and Sheldon, this shouldn't be too tall an order.

5. The linebacker question - huh boy. This is a tough one. It's hard to fix the problems at linebacker when injuries lie at the middle of them. All I can think of is put each LB where they are best suited to play. When he gets healthy again, Akeem Jordan looks like he might become a mainstay. He's a great tackler, and he flies to the point of attack. Gocong and Witherspoon should be ok on the outside...we just can't afford to lose anyone else. So I suppose the thing would be to tell the entire linebacking corps to take it easy and not try to do too much.

At 5-4, we're hardly out of the NFC East race. The entire division has proven that it can beat anyone but also lose to anyone. The way it stands, New Orleans and Minnesota, barring disaster, both look like they're headed to division titles and first-round byes. That leaves us with the Cardinals in the West, the Cowboys and Giants in our own division, and possibly the Falcons. We can beat any one of these teams, but we can't afford to lose more than two or three more games, especially in our own division. We play the Giants at the Meadowlands and the Cowboys in Texas (only steers and queers come from Texas), and we have the Redskins at home. Our remaining schedule is kinda tough, so the team needs to pull it together now. The way I see it, 10-6 should be good enough for a wild-card spot, if not the division title itself. But with the division rivals, Bears, Falcons, 49ers, and Broncos looming on the horizon, we need to play a brand of football that is conducive to moving the chains and retaining possession. As stated before, we have proven we can lose to anyone, but we can also be one of the most dangerous teams in the NFL. A wounded dog may fear you, but the second you turn your back, he's gonna attack.

The NFC East Sings! (Good For A Larf)

jaws1385 — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 16:49:25 -0000

it's a crappy day out, I'm bored as hell, I got no other ideas for a post...let's do this:

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES - "The Waiting (For A Title Is The Hardest Part)" orig. by Tom Petty

Well yeah I might have kicked the idea of a Lombardi Trophy around

All it ever got me was down

The NFC Championship made me feel good

But not as good as a Super Bowl Title would now

Donovan, you're the only one that's ever known how

to make me wanna cheer like i wanna cheer now

The waiting for a title is the hardest part

Every week the Birds gain one more yard

Fans take it on faith, fans take it to the heart

The waiting for a title is the hardest part

DALLAS COWBOYS - "The Pretender" orig. by The Foo Fighters

Send in your linemen

Groan as Flozell jumps early again

D-Line buried him deep

The receivers that they field are never ready

Only Witten's ready

Jerry's finished making sense

Because of his ignorance

and a soft defense

Holes infinity

Wade, Jerry is spinning thee

It's never ending, never ending

Same old story

What if I say Dallas ain't like the others?

What if they screw up another one of their plays?

They're the pretender

What if under pressure Tony always surrenders?

NEW YORK GIANTS - "That Don't Impress Me Much" orig, by Shania Twain

You're one of those teams likes to think that they're great

Just 'cause you're one of five teams with a clean slate

But the Raiders, Skins, Cowboys, the Chiefs and the Bucs

all have one thing in common: each of 'em sucks.

Oh, you think you're special

Oh, you think you're something else

Okay, so you're 5-0

That don't impress me much

You've beaten the likes of Russell, Cassel and such

Don't get me wrong, I think your team is all right

But try playing a team that can put up a fight

That don't impress me much

WASHINGTON REDSKINS - "Snyder, Take This Job And Shove It (As Sung By Jim Zorn)" orig. by Johnny Paycheck

Snyder, take this job and shove it

Don't wanna work here no more

You've stirred a media frenzy

and discouraged the players

I was coaching for

You better not try to stand in

my way goin' out the door

Snyder, take this job and shove it

I ain't working here no more

I've been working these here sidelines

for only about one or two years

All this time I watched the Hogettes

drowning in a pool of tears

And I've seen too many old players signed

with overpriced salaries to pay

I'd give this job back to old Joe Gibbs

if I had the guts to say:

Snyder, take this job and shove it

Trent Dilfer: Romo and Cowboys Are Overrated

jaws1385 — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 05:14:27 -0000

Trent Dilfer: Romo and Cowboys Are Overrated

Thank you ESPN for backtracking on your previous policy of ass-kissing all things Cowboy and telling every football fan who is not a Dallas supporter what they've already known for three years now...

Thoughts on the NFC East Thus Far

jaws1385 — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 14:31:43 -0000

Three weeks in...here's the NFC East picture as I see it:

EAGLES

We've reached the bye with two very impressive wins and one very embarassing loss. But I think we'll be able to put that New Orleans game even further behind us after the bye; our next three opponents are the Bucs (0-3), the Raiders (1-2), and the Redskins (1-2). These three teams have anemic offenses while that of the Birds' is currently third in the NFL in points scored, behind only New Orleans and Baltimore. However, the defenses of Oakland and Washington haven't allowed that many points; Tampa Bay's has been uncharacteristically bad. Both Washington and Tampa are reeling from embarassing losses to Detroit and the Giants, respectively; The Skins gave the Lions their first win since 2007, and the Bucs were shut out for the first time since 2006. The Raiders didn't fare much better, getting smacked around by the Broncos, 23-3. Next weekend, Washington and Tampa play one another, so we'll get a chance to see how both teams look simultaneously. Oakland plays the Texans, so we'll see how that goes. As it stands right now, the Eagles are looking pretty good, but they'll need to develop their consistency on both sides of the ball and beat these three teams that should be beaten soundly. They'll need the confidence that comes with a 5-1 record when they face the Giants on November 1. It looks as though McNabb will be back against Tampa (he has an extra week to heal up), and he'll be wanting to remind everyone why he's the starter after Kevin Kolb's very impressive performance. Also, the tackling must improve; the arm-tackling and body-checks won't get the job done.

DALLAS COWBOYS

I said over a year ago that Tony Romo was overrated and given far too much credit and praise too early; and just now the ESPN talking heads are starting to say the same thing?? The Cowboys have a winning record, but their efforts through three games have been mediocre at best. They allowed 21 points to Tampa, got edged by the Giants, and beat Carolina 21-7. Not bad, but if you watched these games, you'd know that there isn't anything that particularly scares you about them. Every season Jerry Jones has to do something that overshadows the team (like bringing in T.O. and Pacman, building an enormous "Fuck-The-Poor" stadium), and as long as he gets in the way, Dallas will have a hell of a time creating an identity through their play. As for Romo, he can't stay out of the tabloid headlines, and he's still not stepped up to take a leadership role. Maybe T.O. wasn't the problem after all.

NEW YORK GIANTS

Big Blue is the only undefeated NFC East team, so it's safe to say they're pretty good. But, we have to remind ourselves that these three wins came against two mediocre teams and one terrible team (Washington and Dallas, Tampa Bay). The offense can still score, but damn if Eli doesn't miss the home-run threat he had in Plaxico Burress. Still, the Giants have a solid corps of receivers, and their running game is still decent. They'll most likely move to 4-0 after next Sunday, when they play the Chiefs, whom we've sent to them broken and demoralized. You're welcome, Tom Coughlin. Right now, the Giants are the team to beat in the NFC East, but you get the sense that the Eagles are very close behind.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

Jim Zorn better have his affairs in order; a disappointing start to the season was compunded by the loss to the Lions, and when you work for the NFL's most impatient owner, this is usually grounds for dismissal. Albert Haynesworth, the Skins' key off-season acquisition, is hobbled. Jason Campbell is...well, Jason Campbell. DeAngelo Hall has intimated that some of his teammates "don't want it" bad enough. The wheels have not yet come off for the Redskins, but there are definitely plenty of loose lugnuts. Next week presents a double-edged sword situation for Zorn; win against lowly Tampa Bay, and the team will gain back some confidence. Lose, and Zorn will be looking for a new job in October.

WHAT WE KNOW

Kevin Kolb is better than many of us (including myself) thought
New York's offense misses Burress, and Eli is still under the microscope
Dallas still doesn't look like a dangerous playoff team
We have to beat Washington twice this year; no sweeps or splits with them.

WHAT WE DON'T

Whether the Eagles defense can shore up its poor tackling for good
That Dallas is no longer bothered by distractions
That New York is the best team in the division
That Washington is capable of making the playoffs

Eagles Hall Of Shame

jaws1385 — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 15:12:39 -0000

Hey Birdbrains: I felt that in light of the recent flurry of bad news emanating from training camp that I'd provide some much-needed humor. Mind you, this won't compare to Bye, Dawk's masterful piece "Eff You...We're Winning Anyway," but I think most of you should find this enjoyable and funny. This is just a list of past Eagles players (as well as coaches and owners) that have made us want to cringe, cry, scream, kick the cat, and puke our guts out. This...is the Official Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Shame.

Quarterback: Bobby Hoying (1996-98) - Hoying gets the nod over guys like Doug Pederson, Mike McMahon, and Brad Goebel simply because he was a starter longer than them, and he set an NFL record in 1998 by completing 114 passes without throwing for a touchdown. In fact, he didn't throw any touchdowns in 1998. He did, however, throw 9 interceptions. Like the aforementioned QBs, though, Hoying was forced to start because of injuries to the true starter. But 114 passes without a TD? Awful. Dishonorable Mention: Mike McMahon

Running Back: Reno Mahe (2003-07) - Rockin' Reno, baby. My god, he was terrible. Completely ineffective as a rusher, being both undersized and about as tough and tenacious as toilet paper. As a kick returner, he wasn't any better. He always managed to rush into the pile instead of around. In four years with the team, he scored no touchdowns, and fumbled 9 times. Jesus wept. Dishonorable Mention: Michael Haddix

Fullback: Thomas Tapeh (2004-07) - Another terrible rusher. 69 yards total in his career, 0 TDs. Why the Vikings picked him up is beyond me. Couldn't run, couldn't catch, couldn't block. Blecch. Dishonorable Mention: Josh Parry

Wide Receiver: Todd Pinkston (2000-05) - Half of the vaunted and feared combo of Stinkston and Trash (James Thrash), Pinkston was McNabb's go-to guy, for lack of a better option. He never scored double-digit TDs and never had more than 800 yards receiving in a season. A human stick figure, Pinky hated going over the middle, had alligator arms in traffic, and couldn't shed tacklers if his life depended on it. One of the worst route-runners to disgrace the uniform. He shouldn't even have been let back to darken our doorstep by trying to coach. Pinky coaching wide receivers is like Dick Cheney giving a lecture on ethics: it just ain't right. Dishonorable Mention: Freddie Mitchell

Tight End: L.J. Smith (2003-08) - There have been worse NFL tight ends than L.J., but his performance the last couple of years lands him atop the list for us. He showed a ton of promise early in his career, and he began to emerge as a red-zone threat and an athletic pass-catcher, in the process becoming one of Donovan McNabb's favorite targets. But somewhere along the way, a fuse blew. Suddenly, he couldn't catch, couldn't hold onto the ball, and damn sure couldn't block. His injuries piled up, too. He was too slow to burn defenders, and too weak to break through them. And why did he always try those stupid juke moves when running after the catch?! That was half the reason he fumbled so much. Good riddance. Dishonorable Mention: Jason Dunn

Offensive Lineman: Kevin Allen (1985) - What a shithead this guy was. He played one season for us, coming highly touted out of Indiana, and he showed up to camp in 1986 geeked on Bolivian Marching Powder. After that? Charged with sexual assault and earned a three-year stint in the can. Banned from the NFL in the process. Whattaguy. I think Buddy Ryan said it best: "Kevin Allen is a good football player...if you want someone to stand around and kill the grass." Dishonorable Mention: Bernard Williams, Antone Davis

Defensive End: Mike Mamula (1995-2000) - Mamula is now famous for three things: being a draft bust, being the inspiration for the coining of the term "Workout Warrior," and flashing his crank to a female bouncer in West Chester. Dishonorable Mention: Jerome McDougle

Defensive Tackle: Jon Harris (1997-98) - Taken 25th overall...37 career tackles...2 career sacks...3 teams in a 4-year career...and he's not enshrined in Canton?! Dishonorable Mention: Leonard Renfro

Linebacker: Quinton Caver (2001-02) - Big things were expected of Caver coming out of Arkansas, but he proved to be nothing close to what management hoped for. He spent two seasons with the Eagles, tallying 12 total tackles and zero sacks. Dishonorable Mention: Matt McCoy

Cornerback: Izel Jenkins (1988-92) - Here's all you need to know about Izel's ability to cover receivers: his nickname among the fans was "Toast." Dishonorable Mention: Monty Montgomery, Charles Dimry

Safety: Sean Considine (2005-08) - Terrible in coverage, and possibly one of the weakest hitters ever to line up at safety for the Birds. A liability against any passing offense. Letting him play alongside Weapon X was a sacrilege. He's Jacksonville's burden now. Dishonorable Mention: Blaine Bishop

Kicker: Manny Matsakis (1984) - 8th-round pick...kicked like he wore concrete galoshes. Dishonorable Mention: Chris Boniol

Punter: Dirk Johnson (2003-07) - Dude lost the job to a guy who had previously only played Aussie Rules Football. Dishonorable Mention: Ray Criswell

Coach: Rich Kotite (1991-94) - Richie the K took a team that had one of the best defenses of all time and ran it into the ground. In 1994, after starting 7-2, Rich said he would "investigate his options" when rumor surfaced that Jeff Lurie would not renew his contract. The timing was awful, demoralizing the team, and as a result, they lost their remaining 7 games. And who can forget his "misread chart" blunder against the Cowboys and his "decline the penalty and punt" debacle against the Falcons? What a boob. Dishonorable Mention: Joe Kuharich

Owner: Norman Braman - He let Reggie White walk...'nuff said. Dishonorable Mention: Jerry Wolman

Injury List Expands to Create a Who's-Who of Players

jaws1385 — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:09:57 -0000

The current injury list is as follows:

Brian Westbrook (ankle surgery), Victor Abiamiri (torn pectoral muscle), Shawn Andrews (back spasms), Jason Peters, (quad spasms), Asante Samuel (hamstring spasms), Trevor Laws (sore hamstring).

Wow. There are four Pro Bowl players on that list. And so soon after the opening of camp. I mean, didn't veterans just report? I'm not too worried though, as Cap'n Andy has already stated that these guys (excluding Westbrook and Abiamiri) could be ready to go as early as today. I'd have no problem with them taking a few days off to work out the kinks, though. After all, as we are all aware, today is the first day of pads-on, full-contact drills. They can take as long as they need, as far as I'm concerned.

It's no secret that Andy Reid runs one of the toughest training camps in the NFL. Unlike many other teams, the Birds go full-bore the minute camp opens. You hear more moans and groans (albeit joshingly) from Eagles players about camp than from most other teams, and it's easy to see why. Add Andy's hard-charging, no-prisoners approach to camp to the dead-of-summer Lehigh Valley climate, and you're bound to wind up with some injuries. For those of you who have ever attended training camp at Lehigh, you know what I mean; the air hangs and does not seem to circulate. A three-minute walk from your car to the practice field viewing areas produces more sweat than Patrick Ewing in the fourth period. I can't imagine what it's like to strap on heavy pads and a helmet and go out into the sweltering heat and debilitating humidity to get my ass kicked up and down the field all day.

Every year, as the training camp injuries mount, I wonder if a change needs to be made. Reid's methods certainly produce one of the better-conditioned and more hard-nosed teams in the NFL, but it seems like injuries nag the Birds from day one every season. I'm not saying that we should go the Wade Phillips route (he doesn't allow hitting at his camps), because that's just silly (and why the Cowgirls are just plain soft). But maybe there's a happy medium to be reached.

Now, I realize that training camp will produce injuries no matter what happens. It goes with the territory. I defy anyone to be one hundred percent game-ready after almost five months off. I just think that the talent we have is too valuable to be lost to the sidelines because of injuries sustained during conditioning drills. I suppose that all they can do for now is let these guys take it slow for a little while, and work their way back to full speed in their own time. Hamstring and back ailments are nothing to sniff at, and must be managed carefully. On the part of the players, they certainly cannot afford to attempt to rush back onto the field. Just because they can participate despite their ailments does not necessarily mean they should. So here's begging you, Jason, Shawn, Asante, and Trevor: take your time. It's a long camp. We need you ready, but more importantly, we need you healthy.

Season Outlook: Reasons For/Against Concern, Opponent-By-Opponent

jaws1385 — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:25:15 -0000

Here goes:

Game 1, @ Carolina

Why We Should Be Concerned: It seems that Carolina is always a dangerous team, and they always play us close. Everyone expected the anchor of their defensive line, Julius Peppers, to be playing elsewhere at this point, but he ended up signing with the team for at least another year. Jake Delhomme somehow manages to find ways to win, and wideout Steve Smith is always a TD threat. A tough team to play in an away opener. The last time we met was in December of 2006, with the playoffs on the line, and the Birds took them down on Lito Sheppard's last-minute end zone pick in a classic Monday night thriller...they'll be looking for payback.

Why We Shouldn't: Delhomme is aging, and that has started to show in his rising INT-to-TD ratio. Peppers wants to play for another team, and the team's other "threat" at receiver is Methuselah..er, MUHSIN Muhammad. The team has a couple legitimate game-changers, but one gets the sense that Carolina simply isn't as good as New Orleans or Atlanta, their division rivals, this year.

Game 2, vs. New Orleans

Why We Should Be Concerned: Drew Brees is among the best quarterbacks in the league, and his favorite target, Marques Colston, is a rising star. If anyone's seen the Saints' pre-game psych-up, you'll know that Brees is beyond pumped for each and every game, and his players follow his example. Brees is a true leader, and makes the players around him better. They're a proud team, and deserve respect.

Why We Shouldn't: The game isn't being played in the cozy, down-home confines of the Superdome; the Saints will face the Birds in the Nest of Death for the first time since 2003. The three meetings of these two teams since then took place in the Big Easy.

Game 3, vs. Kansas City

Why We Should Be Concerned: The Chiefs, for the first time in a long time, have reason to be optimistic. They have a new quarterback in Matt Cassel, and a future Pro Bowler in Dwayne Bowe. Larry Johnson wants to have a rebound year, and Glenn Dorsey shores up the D in the middle of the line. It remains to be seen if the Chiefs can turn the corner, but they're definitely improved.

Why We Shouldn't: KC legend Tony Gonzalez, once thought to be a prime candidate to play for us, is in Atlanta now, and he's still effective. Matt Cassel doesn't have Randy Moss to throw to anymore, nor does he have Bill Belichick and his staff. Their secondary is almost nonexistent. This is a team that has just started on the road to improvement, but they're not good enough to beat us at home.

Game 4, vs. Tampa Bay

Why We Should Be Concerned: The new-look Bucs are eager to prove they can win with a rookie QB and a talented defense. Josh Freeman has the best chance to be the starter, and he has fine targets to throw to in Michael Clayton and Kellen Winslow, the team's biggest off-season signee. The defense is, as usual, very good, with Gaines Adams anchoring the line, Barrett Ruud prowling the middle, and Aqib Talib watching the corner.

Why We Shouldn't: Like I said, ROOKIE QB. Longtime defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin followed his son Lane to the University of Tennessee, which takes away the comfort of familiarity. Jon Gruden won a Super Bowl in his first year as head coach, and he winds up fired after six years. Owner Malcolm Glazer doesn't screw around. The new head coach, Raheem Morris, is only 33. That's pressure.

Game 5, @ Oakland

Why We Should Be Concerned: Last year, I penciled in the game at Cincy as a gimme win. We all remember how that turned out. Sometimes the Birds drop games they should win in a walk, so this year they can't afford to overlook anyone. Plus, JaMarcus Russell has a new target in Darrius Heyward-Bey (I call him Wee-Bey, for any The Wire fans out there). Darren McFadden could continue to develop.

Why We Shouldn't: Al Davis is still the owner...and the Oakland Raiders are still a terrible team. Instead of drafting for need, Davis went with speed (again). I heard there was a line of Raiders fans attempting to leap off the Empire State Building once the draft was over. This is our first game after the Bye, so we should be rested and prepared.

Game 6, @ Washington

Why We Should Be Concerned: Our first division game of the season (and the first of three in a row) comes in late October, when the cream of the crop starts to rise to the top. The Redskins had a busy offseason, and in true Dan Snider fashion, they signed a big name for an insane amount of money. Albert Haynesworth is a munster, however, and he'll be the first guy that can truly test our new o-line. Clinton Portis is still dangerous, and Chris Cooley for some reason kills us. The crowd in Landover will be hyped for this one.

Why We Shouldn't: The big controversy swirling around this team in the off-season was the quarterback question. Rumor surfaced near draft time that Dan Snider secretly coveted USC QB Mark Sanchez, and that Jason Campbell as a result had suddenly become expendable. Campbell's ego and confidence have to be bruised after this episode, even though Sanchez went to the Jets and Snider took Brian Orakpo, a DE. We'll see if Campbell can pull it together.

Game 7, vs. NYG

Why We Should Be Concerned: Their defensive line is one of the best, if not the best, in football. Sackmaster Osi Umenyiora is returning to that line this year after spending 2008 on the sidelines with a blown knee. Justin Tuck should be dangerous as always. Our new O-line will be thoroughly put to the test this time. Tom Coughlin always has his team prepare well for us. Aaaand there's the little matter of us beating them twice at the Meadowlands last year, including a shocking playoff win that sent us the NFC Championship game. They'll want redemption, especially in our house.

Why We Shouldn't: The G-Men had one deep threat that we never seemed to have an answer for, and now he's gone. They replaced him with Hakeem Nicks, but can the rookie fill Plax's shoes? Also, Brandon Jacobs doesn't have Derrick Ward to spell him anymore, and Jacobs, despite his size and power, is a one-trick pony, and he'll get worn down late in the game. Eli will have to prove himself all over again, now that his once-favorite target isn't around.

Game 8, vs. Dallas

Why We Should Be Concerned: Our first clash against our most hated rival will come at home at the midway point of the season, so expectations and pressure will be high. Our division games are always tough, and the Cowgirls will be wanting to prove themselves an elite, "distraction-free" team. There are three guys on this roster that give me pause: DeMarcus Ware, Jason Witten, and Felix Jones.

Why We Shouldn't: Tony Romo is facing the pressure of having to prove that he is capable of being the team's leader, and has yet to answer the question of whether he's an elite quarterback. The team purports to have gotten rid of its "distractions" when they let T.O. go and when Romo dumped Jessica. The problems lie deeper than that, however. Wade Phillips isn't a bad coach...he's just soft, and ultimately, players can't respect that. And what does it say about the players that they complained that Bill Parcells was too mean? They need a head coach, not a wet nurse. There's too many egos Phillips has to stroke on this team, even without T.O....the worst of them being Jerry Jones. As long as Wade is the coach and Jones continues to meddle, the Cowboys are a team in limbo.

Game 9, @ San Diego

Why We Should Be Concerned: The Chargers are a vastly talented team, and as we saw last year, they can turn a mediocre regular-season performance into playoff success. When he's healthy, LaDainian Tomlinson is the best running back in the NFL. When he's healthy, Antonio Gates is the best tight end in the NFL. When he's healthy, Shawne Merriman is...you get the point. Darren Sproles ain't too bad, either.

Why We Shouldn't: First and foremost, Norv Turner is the head coach. Second, Tomlinson and Gates are rarely healthy these days. Third, both players are aging. Fourth, Norv Turner is the head coach. Fifth, Merriman is recovering from a bad knee injury. Sixth, Philip Rivers is a punk, not a leader. Seventh...Norv Turner is the head coach.

Game 10, @ Chicago

Why We Should Be Concerned: This was another game I had penciled in as a surefire win last year, and of course, we lost. Now the Bears, who we seem to play every season, have a legitimate QB in Jay Cutler, and a defense that is still pretty decent. We can't afford another swoon in the Windy City; the playoff push will be in full swing by this point.

Why We Shouldn't: Chicago may have acquired Cutler, but they sure as hell didn't give him anyone to throw to. Tight end Greg Olsen is his best option, and he's okay at best. I couldn't name a Bears receiver if I had a gun to my head. Add this to the fact that Cutler can be a whiny malcontent, and you've got yourself a team that could be fading by this point.

Game 11, vs. Washington

Why We Should Be Concerned: The Deadskins were the only division rival we lost both games to last year, and we lost the first one at home in ugly, lethargic fashion. The Skins may flounder every year, but somehow, they always come back to bite us in the ass. With only five games left to play from this point, every down counts, and we need to beat these guys.

Why We Shouldn't: If they're not out of the playoffs by this point, they'll certainly be on their way. The Birds and Giants are the class of this division.

Game 12, @ Atlanta

Why we Should Be Concerned: Here's another team we seem to play all the time, and if they are able to continue their success from last year, they could be a dangerous team to play during the playoff push. Matt Ryan, if he avoids the sophomore swoon, is a good quarterback and Roddy White, his favorite receiver, is a Pro-Bowler. This is a team that rebounded nicely after the Bobby Petrino ordeal and the Michael Vick scandal, and they'll want to show they're for real.

Why We Shouldn't: We always play well against the Falcons, and they're playing in what could be one of the toughest divisions in the league. The way I see it, all four teams in the NFC South have the potential to make the playoffs, and they'll be beating each other up all season long. Our situation is no different, but our guys have been there...Matt Ryan and Roddy White will be new to it.

Game 13, @ New York Giants

Why We Should Be Concerned: For all the reasons listed previously, added to the fact that the G-Men aren't going to want to lose to the Birds at home three times in a row.

Why We Shouldn't: Brandon Jacobs could be seriously worn out by this point, and the pressure should be on the Giants to win at home against a team that beat them twice at the Meadowlands last season, the second time to bounce them from the playoffs.

Game 14, vs. San Francisco

Why We Should Be Concerned: Again, we can't have another attack of the Cincy Syndrome here. This is a must-win game, and we can't overlook the fact that they have some young talent. Frank Gore is a good RB, Patrick Willis is an awesome LB, and now they've got a true wideout in Michael Crabtree.

Why We Shouldn't: Attention, Mike Singletary: you need a quarterback to win football games, dude.

Game 15, vs. Denver

Why We Should Be Concerned: Weapon X returns to the Linc...god, how bittersweet this game will be to watch. Will he take revenge on his former team? We'll see...

Why We Shouldn't: Without Jay Cutler, and with a new head coach that hasn't exactly been doing a bang-up job so far, the Broncos scream "mediocrity."

Game 16, @ Dallas

Why We Should Be Concerned: For the second year in a row, we play the Cowgirls to close out the regular season. This time we'll be playing in their house. And man, is it a big-ass house. They'll want revenge for last time, pure and simple. And this is the time for them to do it.

Why We Shouldn't: Does the new Texas Stadium remind anyone else of the COBRA Terrordrome from the old G.I. Joe cartoons? I say that not only because of its immense size and imposing nature, but also because, like the Terrordrome, it is full of arrogant, bumbling idiots who always end up losing to the good guys in the end. Well, in this instance, we get to be G.I. Joe to Dallas' COBRA. Let the battle begin.

The 2009 Season: Rising and Falling Stars, Comeback Players, and Pasture Players

jaws1385 — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 01:20:05 -0000

Hey there, gents. About a year ago, I wrote a piece discussing who I thought were the most overrated and underrated players in the NFL. Now, I'm fixing to tweak that approach a little. I'm going to discuss which players will rise to stardom this season, and which ones are in decline. I'll also throw in the veterans I think will stage comebacks, and those I think will be soon be put out to pasture. Enjoy, and let me know your thoughts.

TOP TEN RISING STARS

10. Roddy White, WR, Atlanta Falcons - Last season, White had his coming-out party, quickly becoming Matt Ryan's new bestest buddy. He finished the year with 88 receptions for 1,382 yards and 7 touchdowns, having played all 16 games and starting 15 of them. With his QB no longer a rookie, and thus having more savvy and carrying more swagger, White should only improve from here.

9. Stewart Bradley, MLB, Philadelphia Eagles - His star's been on the rise for a couple years now, but more slowly than others. He is quickly entering the category of "most underrated players," and this is the year he should step up and claim a place as one of the better middle linebackers in the game. It's his raw tackling ability that will propel him to the upper echelon this year. Last year, he tallied 108 tackles, of which an amazing 86 were solo. He did a good job of directing the defense last year, and with Dawk gone, he'll have the opportunity to become a team leader.

8. Dwayne Bowe, WR, Kansas City Chiefs - Bowe followed up an impressive rookie season with an even more impressive sophomore effort; even with lousy quarterbacking he still managed 86 receptions for 1,022 yards and 7 touchdowns. Now that Matt Cassel, the former savior of New England, is lining up under center in KC, I expect Dwayne to be mentioned for Pro Bowl consideration.

7. Darren Sproles, RB, San Diego Chargers - Sproles is quickly becoming a Westbrook-like threat in the Bolts' offense, as a speedy and elusive rusher and a fluid, crafty receiver. He's another one of the "new" mold of versatile running backs, and he was an excellent complement to LaDainian Tomlinson last season.

6. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Arizona Cardinals - As a rookie in 2008, Rodgers-Cromartie proved he can hang with the big boys. He started an impressive 11 games, tallying 42 tackles (38 solo), and 4 interceptions, one of which he returned 99 yards for a score. It won't be long before we hear Pro Bowl talk surrounding this guy.

5. Michael Turner, RB, Atlanta Falcons - The Falcons have found a terrific complement to their newfound aerial assault. Entering his sixth year in the league, Turner finally had his breakout year in 2008 after spending 4 seasons playing in the shadow of LaDainian Tomlinson. He had 376 attempts for 1,699 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns en route to becoming one of the year's top rushers...if all goes well, he should have more success.

4. Joe Flacco, QB, Baltimore Ravens - I rooted for Joe Flacco (except when he played us), because he's a South Jersey boy like me. For the first time since anyone can remember, it looks as though B-More finally has a legitimate QB to work with. Starting all 16 games in his rookie campaign, Flacco finished with 2,971 passing yards and 14 touchdowns (though he did throw 12 interceptions). He completed 60 percent of his passes as well, and everyone's looking to him to lead Baltimore back to the Super Bowl.

3. Matt Cassel, QB, Kansas City Chiefs - It's not easy being the backup to one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. But Matt made the most of his opportunity to shine when Brady went down early last season. Matt led the Pats, left for dead after the fateful injury to their star QB, back into the playoffs. He finished the year with a 63.4 completion percentage, 3,693 passing yards, and 21 touchdowns. He's the man now in KC, and the Sea of Red at Arrowhead has to be feeling mighty good about things.

2. Calvin Johnson, WR, Detroit Lions - What a beast this guy is. After a good, but not great, rookie performance that was hampered by injuries, Johnson came roaring back in 2008 to rack up 78 receptions for 1,331 yards and 12 touchdowns. He has unbelievable size and speed, and has made amazing catches up and over his opponents. He has a rookie QB to treat with in Matt Stafford, but the newbie couldn't ask for a better target to help him adjust to life in the NFL.

1. Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta Falcons - Born in Exton, PA, and schooled at William Penn Charter in Philly, Matt Ryan is looking very, very promising. In his rookie year, he threw for 3,440 yards and 16 touchdowns while starting all 16 games...never an easy thing to do, especially in his case, as he took over in the wake of the sordid Michael Vick saga. He seems to have the complete package: poise, patience, accuracy, arm strength, and good field vision. He's left Atlanta fans drooling for more, and I have a feeling more is what they'll get.

TOP TEN FALLING STARS

10. Jason Campbell, QB, Washington Redskins - It's not that Jason isn't a good athlete; he is, but he simply hasn't proven to be the answer under center for D.C. Last year, he had okay numbers (3,245 yards for 62.3 percent), but he threw for a paltry 13 touchdowns, and when you play in the toughest division in pro football, that won't get you anywhere. There was talk before the draft of the Skins possibly letting Campbell go and trading up in favor of Mark Sanchez, which proved false, but still, there is talk that if Campbell can't deliver, he'll be out of a job sooner than he thinks.

9. Antonio Pierce, MLB, New York Giants - Pierce isn't exactly a favorite of ours here at BGN, but that isn't the reason why he's listed here. The last anyone heard of him, he was eating Brian Westbrook's dust en route to a crushing playoff loss at home to your very own Philadelphia Eagles. Before that, he was under investigation for obstruction of justice in the Plaxico Burress debacle. Whattaguy. His play declined last season, possibly owing to his increasingly portly physique, and he ain't getting any younger, either. New York will be looking for a new middle linebacker after this season, mark my words.

8. Cadillac Williams, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Once thought to be a future perennial Pro-Bowler after his stellar rookie performance in 2005, Carnell "Cadillac" Williams has since failed to rush for 1,000 yards and cannot seem to stay healthy, forcing his team to rely on the pass. At lot has changed in Tampa, though...they fired Jon Gruden, drafted Josh Freeman as their QB of the future, and brought Derrick Ward aboard, presumably as their new starter at RB. Cadillac may find himself cut following training camp.

7. Nate Clements, CB, San Francisco 49ers - Clements was brought to San Fran from Buffalo in 2007, signing a huge contract to be the cornerstone of the Niners' pass defense. It hasn't panned out. He has just 6 interceptions in two seasons with the Niners, and he's getting past the prime of his career.

6. Jake Delhomme, QB, Carolina Panthers - I know, I know, he had a good season in 2008. Still, he is in his mid-thirties (he'll turn 35 in January), and his TD-to-INT rating has slipped. I'm just not sure that at his age he can keep up with the other terrific QBs in his division (Brees in New Orleans, Ryan in Atlanta).

5. Reggie Bush, RB, New Orleans Saints - He's still very young, but Reggie is quickly learning that he can't pull the same razzle-dazzle stuff in the pros as he did in college. He had only 404 rushing yards last year and a measly 2 touchdowns...he'll need to pull his game together right quick, or the talk of draft bust will start to circulate.

4. Carson Palmer, QB, Cincinnati Bengals - It's very simple; either he stays healthy for a whole season, or Cincy is shopping for a new QB come April. When he's healthy, he's great. But he's no good to anyone on the sidelines.

3. Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Seattle Seahawks - Matt played in only seven games last season, and the injuries have started to pile up, which denotes his advancing age (he'll turn 34 in September). Talk of drafting Mark Sanchez was rampant, but the Hawks elected to go elsewhere, so Hasselbeck is still the man. But he needs to stay healthy and lead his team back to prominence, or else.

2. Terrell Owens, WR, Buffalo Bills - If T.O. thought Jeff Garcia, Donovan McNabb, and Tony Romo were bad, wait'll he gets a load of Trent Edwards and J.P. Losman. They basically sent him here to die. Good night, T.O. And a flight of demons sing thee to thy doom.

1. LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, San Diego Chargers - In this league, running backs, even feature backs, don't last long past 30. LaDainian, who is a surefire HOFer and one of the best, most consistent backs in recent memory, is on the downslope of his career. He has never, I repeat, NEVER rushed for less than 1,000 yards in his career, but his total of 1,110 yards in 2008 was a career low for him. The injuries are piling up, and it remains to be seen how much longer he'll play at an elite level.

TOP FIVE PROJECTED COMEBACK PLAYERS

5. Shawn Andrews, OT, Philadelphia Eagles

4. Chad Johnson, WR, Cincinnati Bengals

3. Osi Umenyiora, DE, New York Giants

2. Shawne Merriman, LB, San Diego Chargers

1. Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots

TOP FIVE OUT-TO-PASTURE PLAYERS

5. Tedy Bruschi, LB, New England Patriots

4. Jeff Garcia, QB, Oakland Raiders

3. Rodney Harrison, SS, New England Patriots (UFA)

2. Derrick Brooks, LB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (UFA)

1. Marvin Harrison, WR, Indianapolis Colts (UFA)

The Rumor Mill - Edge?

jaws1385 — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:27:56 -0000

Something we may be interested in here:

Morning, gents. I was just on ESPN.com, and whilst reading the league news sidebar, I noticed that one of the tags read, "Edge may join Eagles' backfield." You have to be an Insider to read this article, which I am not, so if anyone who reads this happens to be an Insider, could you please report on what you read on this matter? I know it's only a rumor, and is in all likelihood unfounded, but I'm just interested in what the article has to say. In this awful lull between the draft and training camp, I'm just looking for something to pique my interest.

With that out of the way, I think we've already discussed the pros and cons of acquiring Edgerrin James, so I won't rehash what's already been said.