After trying their very best to hand another game away, the Browns eked out a win over the Carolina Panthers last week and get ready to head into Miami to take on the still playoff hopeful Dolphins. Miami has been a team with a lot of ups and downs this season going through quarterback changes and a defense that can be stout one week and very porous the next. The Browns need to once again put a lot of the offensive responsibility on the very stout shoulders of one Peyton Hillis. Hillis went buck wild last week with three touchdowns and putting his total rushing TD's at eleven for the season. That puts him in some VERY select company with the Browns. Only Leroy Kelly and the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time - for those who don't know that) Jim Brown. Hillis's response to being told that responded with, "I'm nobody."
While I appreciate his modesty when compared to those two historic running backs, Peyton Hillis is much more than a nobody for the Browns this season.
Lets see....he has 13 of the teams 21 touchdowns on the year, 905 of 1285 yards rushing, and is the number two receiver for the Browns! Not exactly a nobody! His one Achilles heel this year has been fumbles. He has lost a total of four fumbles out of five total. This can be improved and I am sure it will be. Thankfully, a majority of his fumbles have come in the first half of games and he usually follows them up with a touchdown run on the next possession. That said; opposing defenses are beginning to stack the box against Hillis and it is becoming effective against higher caliber teams slowing down the Browns running game and allowing defenses to force us to rely on our quarterbacks and receivers. This is a glaring sore spot for us as we have no true "go to guy" running routes for us and we are desperately in need of that one true down field threat. Our trio of quarterbacks haven't been the greatest with rookie Colt McCoy being the most reliable after his introduction into the NFL was against top tier defenses such as the Steelers, Patriots, Saints, and Jets. He handles himself very well in those games and unfortunately for us, he joined veterans Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace with his own high ankle sprain. We need Delhomme to avoid the costly interceptions he threw last week keeping the Panthers in the game. Many fans wondered if he was capable of coming back from the horrible year he had last season that led to the Panthers releasing of him. Thus far I would say that we didn't get the results we were hoping for. Wallace was overall not too bad in his time prior to his own ankle sprain but, showed why he is a career backup when it became obvious that he cannot throw the deep ball accurately and can get flustered when he has pressure. He is still a threat with his feet and can make it difficult to defend him when he only has to throw balls less than 20 yards or less. McCoy will hopefully heal quicker than his counterparts and get back on track and continue his development at the helm of our offense...Hillis needs the help.
Our defense is strange. It seems impenetrable on one drive and the next but, second half adjustments by other teams have shown that we are not quite there yet. We give up too many game breaking plays with poor arm tackling (Santonio Holmes and Maurice Jones-Drew) allowing our opponents to find daylight late in games and ultimately allowing comeback wins. Hopefully Scott Fujita gets back to healthy soon and takes back over as the defensive leader we need on the field. He was more than dangerous prior to his injury and we have struggled without his veteran leadership on the field. Overall I see another close game in Miami that we can win if we can put together 60 full minutes of good football. We are a team that cannot afford to make mistakes since we seem unable to take advantage of other teams mistakes (6 Jaguar turnovers somehow did not translate into a win?). Avoiding the turnovers on offense and not giving up large yardage plays on defense will give us the big "W" we so sorely need right now...24-21 Browns!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Some week 11 Observations...
Rich Gannon pointed out that 90% of teams that are -3 in the turnover ratio in a game lose. That would make one assume that with the Jaguars on Sunday having a -6 mark in the turnover ratio they got completely trampled right? WRONG!! Somehow the Cleveland Browns were inept enough on offense in the second half that even five consecutive turnovers by the Jags wasn't enough for us to seal a win. That is absurd but, it is what happens to a young growing team. A lot of people were jumping on the playoff bandwagon after our run through New Orleans, New England, and the heart breaker against the New York Jets. Maybe if the were the New Jacksonville Jaguars we would have had a shot...lol! The Jags displayed our lack of options on offense when Peyton Hillis is finally corralled for a second half. He was once again huge for us in the first half but as a receiver rather than as a rusher. And that my friends highlighted our problem....no real deep threat from the wide receiver position or a serious possession receiver available for Colt McCoy to utilize on third and mid-range to third and long. 5 of 6 third down efficiency in the first half turned into a 2 for 10 ratio in the second half. I heard someone say, "But M. Massaqoui has stepped up recently." If stepping up is 107 yards over a three game span then yes there lies the problem. That kind of yardage over a three game span is paltry and we cannot depend upon Hillis to carry the load like he has thus far. Please do not let us destroy this kid before we get some help and allow us to get a solid receiving corps so our growth continues next season for a true playoff push! We have our stud QB, we have our stud RB, we have a solid defensive unit most games (minus a spot or two), and we have a big fat pimple of a receivers unit! I am glad we didn't go after Randy Moss when he was available because we've been there with a diva receiver (Braylon Edwards - Mr. Hopalot) and it didn't work. Start scanning the waiver wires and free agency lists or checking the collegiate ranks now for the stars of our future. One last note...Ben Watson and Evan Moore are no Wizard of Oz's but, they are dependable with their hands and can block so it is really dependant on the Holmgren and Heckart crews to find those WR's that take us over the top as serious AFC North contenders that make opposing teams quiver! Hope they get it right!
Just to pour salt in our wounds, even through all our offensive let downs, Colt McCoy did drive us down the field quickly with no timeouts to have the drive ended on a heartbreaking play at the Jags three yard line with about 10 seconds or so left. (here's the play that put the nail in our coffin)...
And here is a series of possessions that set up the need for that last minute drive:
Granted, we may not have been able to have clocked the ball if Watson had caught that pass and didn't land in the end zone but, it would have been a lot nicer to see what would have or could have happened with a different result. Enough of the what-if's though. We are a team that plays to win and with a purpose of winning each game. We are not a guaranteed win for ANYone anymore and that's a good thing for us fans. Hopefully we continue to get better and have a say in who makes the playoffs from our division late in the season. It was nice being a spoiler to the Steelers in their fall from grace last year and hopefully we can split the series with them again this season in our season finale. I believe we have the capability to do just that.
GO BROWNS!!!
Just to pour salt in our wounds, even through all our offensive let downs, Colt McCoy did drive us down the field quickly with no timeouts to have the drive ended on a heartbreaking play at the Jags three yard line with about 10 seconds or so left. (here's the play that put the nail in our coffin)...
And here is a series of possessions that set up the need for that last minute drive:
- T.J. Ward interception, Browns start 48 yards away from the end zone. Three and out, punt.
- Joe Haden interception, Browns start 19 yards away from the end zone. Three and out, field goal.
- Chris Cogong fumble, Browns start 57 yards away from the end zone. Three and out, punt.
- T.J. Ward interception, Browns start 35 yards away from the end zone. Three and out, field goal miss.
Granted, we may not have been able to have clocked the ball if Watson had caught that pass and didn't land in the end zone but, it would have been a lot nicer to see what would have or could have happened with a different result. Enough of the what-if's though. We are a team that plays to win and with a purpose of winning each game. We are not a guaranteed win for ANYone anymore and that's a good thing for us fans. Hopefully we continue to get better and have a say in who makes the playoffs from our division late in the season. It was nice being a spoiler to the Steelers in their fall from grace last year and hopefully we can split the series with them again this season in our season finale. I believe we have the capability to do just that.
GO BROWNS!!!
Thursday, November 4, 2010
The almost Mid-Season Reprt Card for the AFC...
It's just about the official mid season now for the NFL and it's time to give out grades to each team on the progress (or lack thereof ) thus far in the 2010. Let's start with a quick view of the standings to give a better view of where the teams stand so far: PF/PA (Points For/Points Against) TOR (Turnover Ratio). I include the points for and against as well as the turnover ratio because it is my belief that these two stats indicate very well where a teams weaknesses are glaring as far as points go and the turnover ratio is a huge difference maker for many teams. Especially if a team has a knack for creating points off of turnovers. They are momentum swinging, game changing situations that most successful teams have in their favor...it even trumps the points statistics. For example, the San Diego Chargers have high rankings in in points scored plus a higher ranked team defense but, they turn the ball over something terrible and currently have a losing record due to their uncanny ability to cough up the ball. That said, let's get started...
AFC - American Football Conference
East
New England Patriots (A) 6-1-0 .857 PF:205 PA:154 Home:4-0 Away:2-1 TOR: +7
New York Jets (A-) 5-2-0 .714 PF:159 PA:110 Home:3-0 Away:2-2 TOR: +7
Miami Dolphins (B) 4-3-0 .571 PF:133 PA:149 Home:0-3 Away:4-0 TOR: -4
Buffalo Bills (F) 0-7-0 .000 PF:131 PA:211 Home:0-3 Away:0-4 TOR: -5
North
Baltimore Ravens (B+) 5-2-0 .714 PF:149 PA:129 Home:3-0 Away:2-2 TOR: -2
Pittsburgh Steelers (A-) 5-2-0 .714 PF:147 PA:102 Home:2-1 Away:3-1 TOR: +9
Cleveland Browns (C) 2-5-0 .286 PF:118 PA:142 Home:1-2 Away:1-3 TOR: 0
Cincinnati Bengals (D) 2-5-0 .286 PF:146 PA:163 Home:1-2 Away:1-3 TOR: +4
South
Indianapolis Colts (B+) 5-2-0 .714 PF:193 PA:142 Home:3-0 Away:2-2 TOR: +3
Tennessee Titans (B) 5-3-0 .635 PF:224 PA:150 Home:2-2 Away:3-1 TOR: +6
Houston Texans (C+) 4-3-0 .571 PF:170 PA:197 Home:2-2 Away:2-1 TOR: -3
Jacksonville Jaguars (C) 4-4-0 .500 PF:165 PA:226 Home:2-2 Away:2-2 TOR: -7
West
Kansas City Chiefs (A-) 5-2-0 .714 PF:163 PA:122 Home:4-0 Away:1-2 TOR: +5
Oakland Raiders (B-) 4-4-0 .500 PF:212 PA:168 Home:3-1 Away:1-3 TOR: +2
San Diego Chargers (C-) 3-5-0 .375 PF:210 PA:174 Home:3-1 Away:0-4 TOR:-8
Denver Broncos (D) 2-6-0 .250 PF:154 PA:223 Home 1-3 Away:1-3 TOR:-4
Okay, here's my breakdown and reasoning for the AFC grades. The Patriots were supposed to struggle when they traded perennial deep threat Randy Moss and simply re-signed Deion Branch and made all the experts look silly. Is Tom Brady that good? Is Bill Belichek that smart? Is the system that well designed? I believe it is a little of all the above. The Patriots look ready to make another serious playoff run for one last shot at being the team of the decade.
Behind all the bluster of head coach Rex Ryan, the Jets are proving to be a team that is difficult to beat and while I wish they hadn't caved in to Revis, he is a difference maker when he is on the field. Between Revis and Cromartie, the Jets have the best duo of cornerbacks in the NFL. That said, they also have a very stingy defense against the run (88.7 yds per game) that allows them to come up with a variety of blitz packages. If Mark Sanchez can continue to manage games for the regular season they will have a good run to the playoffs. But, Sanchez has got to develop the ability to take over a game and make it his (ex: Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees...) if they want to complete the playoffs with a Super Bowl victory.
The Miami Dolphins are unbeatable...away from their home field. Undefeated on the road and winless at home is strange for any team. If they hope to make a playoff run they have got to start winning at home and continue to win on the road. They are in a tough division to hope for a wildcard slot with the Patriots and Jets there. It can be done but, they need a lot of help from other teams to get them there. So far they are under .500 in the division and in the AFC conference. That has to change before the playoffs are a reality.
The Buffalo Bills....they stink! There is not a lot of good to say when a team is losing every game so far and they also play in a very good division. The playoffs aren't mentioned when the Bills are in the conversation (unless they are playing a division team). Hopefully they can draft and deal well enough to be competitive. Until then, the Bills can hope to be a heart breaker team towards the end of the season and pull off an upset over a team trying to get in to the post season. Good luck.
It seems the Baltimore Ravens have once again found a way to play just enough offense to score SOME points and allow their defense to win games for them. That formula has worked for them in the past but, I don't believe that Ray Lewis has got enough in the tank to make it to the promised land one more time. I say the defense either tires out, or they have an unfortunate injury to a primary playmaker on the defensive unit. I don't hope for injuries to any athlete but, when they are on the field as much as the Ravens are, injuries are unavoidable. Particularly on a defense that has players who go all out like the Ravens do. If they find a way to put together a better offense for the second half of the season, they could very well get in the playoffs with a wildcard spot and create headaches for any opponent.
The Steelers. Yes I am a Browns fan but, reality is this...Pittsburgh scares teams every week. They came away from Ben's suspension 3-1 and have looked even better since his return. The recent loss of defensive end Aaron Smith is bigger than most fans are aware because he is one of those players that is always there each and every play redirecting running backs to pursuing linebackers, disrupting quarterbacks rhythm, or making big plays by himself. He hasn't really gotten the press attention and he has never seemed to mind. His teammates know what a difference maker he is and will have to hope his replacement is half as good. Even with him out, the Steelers are a very good ball club and if they continue to benefit from game deciding calls Miami game) along with their natural winning ways, they will be in the AFC championship game at the very minimum.
The Cleveland Browns. They have had our attention up until the 4th quarter a lot this year only to find a way to give their opponents the game back. Until they decide to stop the mind numbing, self-inflicted mistakes, they will continue to break fans hearts. They brought in Jake Delhomme to give the QB position some veteran leadership and he got hurt. Does a high sprain really take this long to heal? Then Seneca Wallace came in in his career role as backup QB and has performed admirably but, he has also shown why he is a career backup with his inability to throw the deep ball accurately to open receiver down the sideline. His balls all seem to drift away out of bounds followed by a sudden silence from the fans wondering where that ball was intended. Colt McCoy got his shot starting against the top rated Pittsburgh defense. While the Browns didn't in, many felt he played well and never seemed lost or out of sorts. Not bad for any rookie QB when they face a defense like that. Cleveland's recent win over defending Super Bowl champion New Orleans has once again given fans hope they can make a decent season yet. Reality is once again we are not a playoff team and with Wallace moving back to the starting spot, we'll have to wait and see if McCoy's winning attitude bleeds off on his teammates.
The Bengals. WTF!?!? is the current feeling of most Bengal fans. They are loaded with talent and yet, seem unable to find the winning formula they had just last year when they swept the AFC North. No small feat when you play the Steelers and Ravens defenses twice. Carson Palmer is getting his yardage (kinda) and with the duo of Chad Johnson (i still won't call him ochocinco...just stupid) and Terrell Owens has not turned into a 30 point team as those two would have led you to believe. The Bengal defense is porous and gives up way too many big plays and if not the big play, long sustained drives that seems to take the life out of the Bengals. They need cure what ails them quickly or I see a complete re-building in Cincinnati's near future.
Peyton Manning is still the QB in Indianapolis and therefore, the Colts will once again win their division and if they grab home field advantage, they could wind up in the Super Bowl this year. That said, they have issues on defense. Fast? Absolutely! That does not always work though and they have got to find a way to get Peyton to slow down his drives and give them some rest. Even a 90 yard drive takes less time for the Colts than most teams take for a 40 yard scoring drive. If Manning ever gets seriously hurt, the Colts will immediately begin planning for the next season and make sure he has every medical technology available to ensure he is healed completely. If the Steelers or Patriots get home field against the Colts it's asta la vista baby for them.
The Houston Texans surprised the Colts in week one with Arian Foster running roughshod all over Texas. That didn't happen in in the next meeting and the Texans look like a team on the verge. On the verge of being figured out for the second half of the season and back to the drawing board. Andre Johnson is a beast but, until they find a solid week in and week out quarterback to compliment him (and a steady tight end), they just don't have it...yet. Matt Schaub is not the answer in my opinion. He is a good quarterback yes (if you are on the final roster after spring training. you must have SOME talent), he is not THE quarterback they need. Their defense is getting better each year and they are trying to find the right mixture at the QB position. When they do, it may finally be time for a new division champion in the AFC South.
Jacksonville is currently a quiet .500 and they have the ability to finish above that but, I don't think they will. David Garrard has been to inconsistent this season and their defense is closer to Dr. Jekkyl and Mr. Hyde. They can be stout or leak like a colander. No one can plan on the playoffs with that happening. Jack Del Rio is just about out of time in Jacksonville and he needs a strong playoff showing in order to retain his position as head coach for the Jaguars. That just isn't going to happen and He'll be coaching further up the coast with someone like the Carolina Panthers next year. No, I don't think Bill Cowher will be their coach.
The best surprise team so far this season is the Kansas City Chiefs. With Romeo Crennel on defense and CharlieWeiss calling the offense, this team is realizing its collective potential. They have a trio of running backs (Jamaal Charles, Tevarus Johnson, and Thomas Jones) who all have a different style of running that keeps defenses on their heels and a QB (Matt Cassel) who appears to have found his stride this season. Head coach Todd Haley is the lesser known name in Kansas City with his two former head coach assistants (Crennel and Weiss) but, had been making solid decisions and like to take the fourth down chances when others will just take the field goal points. It's that aggressiveness that has pushed the Chiefs to the top of their division but, they are a year or two away from a deep playoff run.
Oaklands Raiders are another pleasant surprise at .500 so far this year and with their 59-14 drubbing of the Denver Broncos may have made a statement of, "DO NOT overlook us!". Yes the Broncos have played poorly but, no one else put up that much offense against them. Tom Cable's reluctance to utilize Darren McFadden had seemingly McFaded as he is starting to light up opposing defenses. This has been a team much like the Browns who have the history but nothing much to cheer for lately. That may be changing. I'm not completely on board yet but, their 33-3 win over Seattle after the Bronco thrashing has certainly put one foot on the ship. Keep an eye on them for the second half.
The San Diego Chargers released Ladainian Tomlison hoping Darren Sproles would fill his shoes. Sproles hasn't and LT is having a year to remember in New York so far. Shawne Merriman hasn't been there and Vincent Jackson's holdout has thrown the best option for Philip Rivers for a loop. Take away the large number of turnover for this team and they are in the postseason mix. However, you can't take away their giveaways and they are not, yet. This team has come back from the brink too many times to count them out. Their 210 points is third in the AFC and with Jackson's imminent return, they will score more. I just don't know if they can score enough.
Finally, the Dnever Boncos. Josh McDaniels has got to be looking in the mirror and wondering of his complete mishandling of Jay Cutler two years ago was his biggest early mistake. When they took a risk and drafted Tim Tebow from the Florida Gators it sent the message to Kyle Orton to take the reins of the offense and get them rolling. Orton hasn't gotten the message and Tebow will probably get his first career NFL start real soon. Another team on the verge of big change in the very near future and it will probably begin with a change at the head coach slot first. A new coach will probably see what Urban Myers golden boy has to offer. There was a lot of grumbling about his draft position then it started to filter down when word got out that he was extremely coachable and quickening his release and improving his footwork. He has that winners personality and we'll have to wait and see if that translates into a new look Broncos in the years to come.
There! That's MY summary of the AFC for the first half of the season and if you disagree, go ahead and give me your thoughts in the comment section. Remember, it's a blog for fun so, don't get all high and mighty, just give me feedback with a decent reasoning for your thoughts. I would love to hear what you think of my grades so far and where you would change them and why. I hope to have an NFC summary before the games this weekend so, keep an eye out and enjoy the second half of the NFL season!
AFC - American Football Conference
East
New England Patriots (A) 6-1-0 .857 PF:205 PA:154 Home:4-0 Away:2-1 TOR: +7
New York Jets (A-) 5-2-0 .714 PF:159 PA:110 Home:3-0 Away:2-2 TOR: +7
Miami Dolphins (B) 4-3-0 .571 PF:133 PA:149 Home:0-3 Away:4-0 TOR: -4
Buffalo Bills (F) 0-7-0 .000 PF:131 PA:211 Home:0-3 Away:0-4 TOR: -5
North
Baltimore Ravens (B+) 5-2-0 .714 PF:149 PA:129 Home:3-0 Away:2-2 TOR: -2
Pittsburgh Steelers (A-) 5-2-0 .714 PF:147 PA:102 Home:2-1 Away:3-1 TOR: +9
Cleveland Browns (C) 2-5-0 .286 PF:118 PA:142 Home:1-2 Away:1-3 TOR: 0
Cincinnati Bengals (D) 2-5-0 .286 PF:146 PA:163 Home:1-2 Away:1-3 TOR: +4
South
Indianapolis Colts (B+) 5-2-0 .714 PF:193 PA:142 Home:3-0 Away:2-2 TOR: +3
Tennessee Titans (B) 5-3-0 .635 PF:224 PA:150 Home:2-2 Away:3-1 TOR: +6
Houston Texans (C+) 4-3-0 .571 PF:170 PA:197 Home:2-2 Away:2-1 TOR: -3
Jacksonville Jaguars (C) 4-4-0 .500 PF:165 PA:226 Home:2-2 Away:2-2 TOR: -7
West
Kansas City Chiefs (A-) 5-2-0 .714 PF:163 PA:122 Home:4-0 Away:1-2 TOR: +5
Oakland Raiders (B-) 4-4-0 .500 PF:212 PA:168 Home:3-1 Away:1-3 TOR: +2
San Diego Chargers (C-) 3-5-0 .375 PF:210 PA:174 Home:3-1 Away:0-4 TOR:-8
Denver Broncos (D) 2-6-0 .250 PF:154 PA:223 Home 1-3 Away:1-3 TOR:-4
Okay, here's my breakdown and reasoning for the AFC grades. The Patriots were supposed to struggle when they traded perennial deep threat Randy Moss and simply re-signed Deion Branch and made all the experts look silly. Is Tom Brady that good? Is Bill Belichek that smart? Is the system that well designed? I believe it is a little of all the above. The Patriots look ready to make another serious playoff run for one last shot at being the team of the decade.
Behind all the bluster of head coach Rex Ryan, the Jets are proving to be a team that is difficult to beat and while I wish they hadn't caved in to Revis, he is a difference maker when he is on the field. Between Revis and Cromartie, the Jets have the best duo of cornerbacks in the NFL. That said, they also have a very stingy defense against the run (88.7 yds per game) that allows them to come up with a variety of blitz packages. If Mark Sanchez can continue to manage games for the regular season they will have a good run to the playoffs. But, Sanchez has got to develop the ability to take over a game and make it his (ex: Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees...) if they want to complete the playoffs with a Super Bowl victory.
The Miami Dolphins are unbeatable...away from their home field. Undefeated on the road and winless at home is strange for any team. If they hope to make a playoff run they have got to start winning at home and continue to win on the road. They are in a tough division to hope for a wildcard slot with the Patriots and Jets there. It can be done but, they need a lot of help from other teams to get them there. So far they are under .500 in the division and in the AFC conference. That has to change before the playoffs are a reality.
The Buffalo Bills....they stink! There is not a lot of good to say when a team is losing every game so far and they also play in a very good division. The playoffs aren't mentioned when the Bills are in the conversation (unless they are playing a division team). Hopefully they can draft and deal well enough to be competitive. Until then, the Bills can hope to be a heart breaker team towards the end of the season and pull off an upset over a team trying to get in to the post season. Good luck.
It seems the Baltimore Ravens have once again found a way to play just enough offense to score SOME points and allow their defense to win games for them. That formula has worked for them in the past but, I don't believe that Ray Lewis has got enough in the tank to make it to the promised land one more time. I say the defense either tires out, or they have an unfortunate injury to a primary playmaker on the defensive unit. I don't hope for injuries to any athlete but, when they are on the field as much as the Ravens are, injuries are unavoidable. Particularly on a defense that has players who go all out like the Ravens do. If they find a way to put together a better offense for the second half of the season, they could very well get in the playoffs with a wildcard spot and create headaches for any opponent.
The Steelers. Yes I am a Browns fan but, reality is this...Pittsburgh scares teams every week. They came away from Ben's suspension 3-1 and have looked even better since his return. The recent loss of defensive end Aaron Smith is bigger than most fans are aware because he is one of those players that is always there each and every play redirecting running backs to pursuing linebackers, disrupting quarterbacks rhythm, or making big plays by himself. He hasn't really gotten the press attention and he has never seemed to mind. His teammates know what a difference maker he is and will have to hope his replacement is half as good. Even with him out, the Steelers are a very good ball club and if they continue to benefit from game deciding calls Miami game) along with their natural winning ways, they will be in the AFC championship game at the very minimum.
The Cleveland Browns. They have had our attention up until the 4th quarter a lot this year only to find a way to give their opponents the game back. Until they decide to stop the mind numbing, self-inflicted mistakes, they will continue to break fans hearts. They brought in Jake Delhomme to give the QB position some veteran leadership and he got hurt. Does a high sprain really take this long to heal? Then Seneca Wallace came in in his career role as backup QB and has performed admirably but, he has also shown why he is a career backup with his inability to throw the deep ball accurately to open receiver down the sideline. His balls all seem to drift away out of bounds followed by a sudden silence from the fans wondering where that ball was intended. Colt McCoy got his shot starting against the top rated Pittsburgh defense. While the Browns didn't in, many felt he played well and never seemed lost or out of sorts. Not bad for any rookie QB when they face a defense like that. Cleveland's recent win over defending Super Bowl champion New Orleans has once again given fans hope they can make a decent season yet. Reality is once again we are not a playoff team and with Wallace moving back to the starting spot, we'll have to wait and see if McCoy's winning attitude bleeds off on his teammates.
The Bengals. WTF!?!? is the current feeling of most Bengal fans. They are loaded with talent and yet, seem unable to find the winning formula they had just last year when they swept the AFC North. No small feat when you play the Steelers and Ravens defenses twice. Carson Palmer is getting his yardage (kinda) and with the duo of Chad Johnson (i still won't call him ochocinco...just stupid) and Terrell Owens has not turned into a 30 point team as those two would have led you to believe. The Bengal defense is porous and gives up way too many big plays and if not the big play, long sustained drives that seems to take the life out of the Bengals. They need cure what ails them quickly or I see a complete re-building in Cincinnati's near future.
Peyton Manning is still the QB in Indianapolis and therefore, the Colts will once again win their division and if they grab home field advantage, they could wind up in the Super Bowl this year. That said, they have issues on defense. Fast? Absolutely! That does not always work though and they have got to find a way to get Peyton to slow down his drives and give them some rest. Even a 90 yard drive takes less time for the Colts than most teams take for a 40 yard scoring drive. If Manning ever gets seriously hurt, the Colts will immediately begin planning for the next season and make sure he has every medical technology available to ensure he is healed completely. If the Steelers or Patriots get home field against the Colts it's asta la vista baby for them.
The Houston Texans surprised the Colts in week one with Arian Foster running roughshod all over Texas. That didn't happen in in the next meeting and the Texans look like a team on the verge. On the verge of being figured out for the second half of the season and back to the drawing board. Andre Johnson is a beast but, until they find a solid week in and week out quarterback to compliment him (and a steady tight end), they just don't have it...yet. Matt Schaub is not the answer in my opinion. He is a good quarterback yes (if you are on the final roster after spring training. you must have SOME talent), he is not THE quarterback they need. Their defense is getting better each year and they are trying to find the right mixture at the QB position. When they do, it may finally be time for a new division champion in the AFC South.
Jacksonville is currently a quiet .500 and they have the ability to finish above that but, I don't think they will. David Garrard has been to inconsistent this season and their defense is closer to Dr. Jekkyl and Mr. Hyde. They can be stout or leak like a colander. No one can plan on the playoffs with that happening. Jack Del Rio is just about out of time in Jacksonville and he needs a strong playoff showing in order to retain his position as head coach for the Jaguars. That just isn't going to happen and He'll be coaching further up the coast with someone like the Carolina Panthers next year. No, I don't think Bill Cowher will be their coach.
The best surprise team so far this season is the Kansas City Chiefs. With Romeo Crennel on defense and CharlieWeiss calling the offense, this team is realizing its collective potential. They have a trio of running backs (Jamaal Charles, Tevarus Johnson, and Thomas Jones) who all have a different style of running that keeps defenses on their heels and a QB (Matt Cassel) who appears to have found his stride this season. Head coach Todd Haley is the lesser known name in Kansas City with his two former head coach assistants (Crennel and Weiss) but, had been making solid decisions and like to take the fourth down chances when others will just take the field goal points. It's that aggressiveness that has pushed the Chiefs to the top of their division but, they are a year or two away from a deep playoff run.
Oaklands Raiders are another pleasant surprise at .500 so far this year and with their 59-14 drubbing of the Denver Broncos may have made a statement of, "DO NOT overlook us!". Yes the Broncos have played poorly but, no one else put up that much offense against them. Tom Cable's reluctance to utilize Darren McFadden had seemingly McFaded as he is starting to light up opposing defenses. This has been a team much like the Browns who have the history but nothing much to cheer for lately. That may be changing. I'm not completely on board yet but, their 33-3 win over Seattle after the Bronco thrashing has certainly put one foot on the ship. Keep an eye on them for the second half.
The San Diego Chargers released Ladainian Tomlison hoping Darren Sproles would fill his shoes. Sproles hasn't and LT is having a year to remember in New York so far. Shawne Merriman hasn't been there and Vincent Jackson's holdout has thrown the best option for Philip Rivers for a loop. Take away the large number of turnover for this team and they are in the postseason mix. However, you can't take away their giveaways and they are not, yet. This team has come back from the brink too many times to count them out. Their 210 points is third in the AFC and with Jackson's imminent return, they will score more. I just don't know if they can score enough.
Finally, the Dnever Boncos. Josh McDaniels has got to be looking in the mirror and wondering of his complete mishandling of Jay Cutler two years ago was his biggest early mistake. When they took a risk and drafted Tim Tebow from the Florida Gators it sent the message to Kyle Orton to take the reins of the offense and get them rolling. Orton hasn't gotten the message and Tebow will probably get his first career NFL start real soon. Another team on the verge of big change in the very near future and it will probably begin with a change at the head coach slot first. A new coach will probably see what Urban Myers golden boy has to offer. There was a lot of grumbling about his draft position then it started to filter down when word got out that he was extremely coachable and quickening his release and improving his footwork. He has that winners personality and we'll have to wait and see if that translates into a new look Broncos in the years to come.
There! That's MY summary of the AFC for the first half of the season and if you disagree, go ahead and give me your thoughts in the comment section. Remember, it's a blog for fun so, don't get all high and mighty, just give me feedback with a decent reasoning for your thoughts. I would love to hear what you think of my grades so far and where you would change them and why. I hope to have an NFC summary before the games this weekend so, keep an eye out and enjoy the second half of the NFL season!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Helmet to Helmet hits--My final word (maybe!)
Okay, the NFL has issued a video to better explain the standards of hitting and whats legal versus whats illegal. I've watched it and believe it to be fairly simple to understand. Others will say it still leaves grey areas and those are the people unhappy their particular favorite team had a player fined recently. The fines were proper and not excessive in my humble opinion. The chances of seeing big hits is NOT reduced as this rule has been in place for some time..just not properly enforced. I was unhappy to hear that officials who miss these plays and do not flag them will also be held liable in some fashion. The main offender that has raised the most issue with this new style of imposing of fines, suspensions, etc has been James Harrison. Of course he has issue with it, he has a lot to lose and says so himself with his "I play to hurt." comment. Sorry, but I see no distinction between hurt someone and injure someone. If you really want to be a competitor, you attempt to beat an opposing team that has ALL their players available as well as your own team having theirs. NOT a team a player or two down because you tried to hurt them so they would be out of the game! Winning in this style isn't winning, it is foul! I know a lot of Steeler fans and yes, I am a Browns fan but, I also believed that TJ Wards fine was proper and necessary to make him understand that he cannot attack an opposing player with his head, period! Ward is an up and coming rookie who is defining his own career early as an intimidating force from the safety position much in the style of Troy Polamalu. I apologize if I spelled that wrong again (just doesn't seem to have any suggestions in spell check!). I have always admired Troy's style of balls to the wall defense. I was worried however, early on in his career when he led with his head so much that he may end his career or life with some of his hits. He did remove himself from many games due to that style and one can only hope a talent such as his has been able to adjust and continue with his electrifying game. Harrison can still be a beast without 'hurting' anyone intentionally. I have even heard people say it was payback for Terry Bradshaw being dumped on his head to many (30 or so) years ago. That was stupidity on the Browns player then and it was stupidity on Harrison's part as well today. He has the physical ability to adjust and be able to lower the boom with his shoulders because he is that good. If he says he can't and must therefore quit (as he threatened to do) then I say "SEE YA!" I don't believe we will see much different play this weekend, just less concussions with a lot of big hits still available. As a side note on player safety, SHAME ON THE NFL for using licensing and contracts with big name companies as an excuse that shuts the door on smaller companies that have much more superior (and safer) equipment available that could reduce many serious injuries; and in particular concussions if they would simply tell the big boys, "We accept your products until a safer piece of equipment is now available, therefore forcing us to go with those newer products." The big companies could then simply buy out the smaller ones new safe equipment allowing the new product to be mass produced and putting a lot of $ in the small companies coffers freeing them up to continue development of even safer equipments! I learned this on ESPN today when former player Marcellus Wiley stated that he had seen better equipment displayed but disallowed when he was a player rep during his time in the NFL. It was a VERY enlightening discussion!
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Heads held high in Warrior loss....
The finish was one week early for the Lower Grey Warriors in their loss to the Lower Red Falcons but, their heads were (and should be) held high with pride for an excellent season. Parents, coaches, players, and fans gave a rousing applause to the young Warriors as they left the field with red eyes upset the season had ended. It was the furthest a team from the BCMFL had made it so far in the leagues short history and the kids should be proud of that accomplishment. The support they received was very encouraging as players and coaches from other BCMFL teams arrived to cheer on the Lower Grey team as well. Aaron Pocatko, and Dylan Fitchet looked ready top have another big game offensively but, unfortunately, Fitchet left the game early with an apparent stomach virus, as did Kurt Warren who has been a big part of the Warrior defense all season. The timing looked to be off for the Warriors after the loss of these two starters. Zach Winchell then had to leave the game further changing the momentum and allowing the Falcons to focus all their defensive efforts solely on Pocatko bringing backside blitzes on every other play. The Warriros were up to the challenge as even with three minutes remaining and Jefferson having possession, the defense were able to force yet another fumble giving the Warriors one last gasp of hope. Sadly for the kids, they just couldn't get back the timing on offense they needed to make a last minute drive. They finish with a record of 7-2 and as any good sport should do, they wish the young Falcons good luck in the final game next week. Their tears will dry and their emotions will come back in control in due time. It is heart warming to see the kids care so much about the sport and about each other...the hardest lesson to learn in any sport is how to accept a loss and they will, making them better sportsman, and people and that's what all of us parents really want our kids to be.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Defense seals "W" for Lower Grey in playoff opener....
In a game where the Lower Grey Warriors met a team that could match them for their offensive speed against the visiting Lower White Eagles, the Warriors defense proved to be the difference with a late fourth quarter turnover on a fumble recovery by Antonio Delion sealing the 12-6 victory. Not that the galloping grey ghosts couldn't run, they just couldn't break off the big runs they've become accustomed to week in and week out. Dylan Fitchet led the charge this week accumulating 116 yards of rushing offense with Aaron Pocatko right on his heels with 104 yards of his won. Jesse Garcia and Miguel Delion each chipped in 14 and 9 yards respectively. Pocatko also completed two passes for 25 yards with Fitchet and Jacob Zappitelli each catching one toss each. Once again it was the offensive line that worked as a fine tuned machine giving the running room for the four headed rushing attack of the Warriors. Geneva did not just roll over however, cutting down the outside speed just before they could break loose on many runs. The outside and linebacker speed of the Eagles was impressive as they used very good angles and a well thought out defensive scheme to keep the Lower Grey running attack somewhat in check.
It became necessary for the Warriors to depend upon the defense to hold off another second rally attempt as the Eagles scored their first TD late in the third quarter cutting the lead to the ultimate final score of 12-6. Late in the fourth quarter, the Lower White defense put together a 'three and out' giving them a last chance possession. With Jacob Tackett, Pocatko, and Dale Sheldon leading the way on defense, they hit the Eagle running back as a unit jarring the ball loose allowing Antonio Delion to scramble for the loose ball and hold on in the scrum pile sealing the win and allowing the Warriors (7-1) to now prepare for a second round playoff appearance against the winner of the Lower Jefferson Red Falcons and the Madison Cowboys.
The defense was led by Pocatko, Fitchet, and Alex Dufala with four tackles each. Zappitelli had three, and Jesse Garcia, Miguel Delion, Sheldon, and William Walker had two tackles apiece. Kurt Warren and Zach Griffith each had one defensive stop.
The Falcons are the only team to put a blemish on the Warriors in the season opener winning by two points, and the Warriors needed a second half comeback to defeat the Cowboy team. Either team will make for an interesting playoff matchup for the Warriors and should be exciting to watch for any fan of the youngest and purest form of football! Congrats to all the youngsters for putting together a very enjoyable season thus far and they should all be proud of their teams performances!
It became necessary for the Warriors to depend upon the defense to hold off another second rally attempt as the Eagles scored their first TD late in the third quarter cutting the lead to the ultimate final score of 12-6. Late in the fourth quarter, the Lower White defense put together a 'three and out' giving them a last chance possession. With Jacob Tackett, Pocatko, and Dale Sheldon leading the way on defense, they hit the Eagle running back as a unit jarring the ball loose allowing Antonio Delion to scramble for the loose ball and hold on in the scrum pile sealing the win and allowing the Warriors (7-1) to now prepare for a second round playoff appearance against the winner of the Lower Jefferson Red Falcons and the Madison Cowboys.
The defense was led by Pocatko, Fitchet, and Alex Dufala with four tackles each. Zappitelli had three, and Jesse Garcia, Miguel Delion, Sheldon, and William Walker had two tackles apiece. Kurt Warren and Zach Griffith each had one defensive stop.
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| Earlier season photo of the Lower Grey defense in action. (#21-Dylan Fitchet, #11 Kurt Warren) |
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Comeback win for Lower Grey proves huge....
On what could only be described as "Football Weather" , the Lower Grey Warriors needed a 2nd half comeback to clinch home field advantage in the first week of playoffs as they defeated the Madison Cowboys 13-12.
Lighting a fire under the Warriors wasn't really a possibility in the wind, rain, and mud but, that's what seemed to happen after the Cowboys took a 12-0 lead in the first half and seemed to be controlling the game. The second half was a role reversal that saw the Warriors take control back on the offensive and defensive lines allowing Aaron Pocatko, Dylan Fitchet, and Miguel Delion to get their wheels churning and start to move the ball on the ground after the first half passing attack proved futile in the conditions. The defense apparently overcame their fear of giants as Madisons star running back (name unknown) had been having his way in the first half. To be polite, he was HUGE compared to the average 7,8, and 9 year old. As they say though, "The bigger they are, the harder they fall." and fall he did accumulating only four total offensive yards in the entire second half. Led by Jacob Zappitelli on defense, the undersized Warriors utilized team tackling in bringing down the big guy and getting the ball back in the hands of the offense allowing Dale Sheldon, Alex Dufala, Antonio Delion, Jacob Tackett, and Dominic Ciesicki to use brute force on the line and giving room to run for Pocatko, Fitchet, and M. Delion for a team total of 168 yards of rushing offense. Madisons inability to convert after their first half touchdowns proved vital for the Warriors when Fitchet converted after Pocatkos first TD. Pocatko scrambled in from 25 yards out for his second TD with just over three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter and the defense was called upon once again to put on the clamps. They did just that pushing the Cowboys backwards for negative seven yards on four rushing attempts effectively sealing the win. With our usual dfensive stars getting their tackles, William Walker and Kurt Warren stepped up their games as well giving the additional defensive help the Warriors needed and allowing them to host their playoff opener next week (opponent unknown as of yet) at Warrior Stadium. The Lower Grey team hopes to get a chance to avenge their only loss against the Lower Jefferson team from the season opener and it appears that just may happen as the young Falcons have also clinched a home field advantage as well. The possible re-match would prove to be a grudge match made in our local midget football heaven and we hope to see a large contingent of fans at all our remaining playoff games to support our little Warriors!
Lighting a fire under the Warriors wasn't really a possibility in the wind, rain, and mud but, that's what seemed to happen after the Cowboys took a 12-0 lead in the first half and seemed to be controlling the game. The second half was a role reversal that saw the Warriors take control back on the offensive and defensive lines allowing Aaron Pocatko, Dylan Fitchet, and Miguel Delion to get their wheels churning and start to move the ball on the ground after the first half passing attack proved futile in the conditions. The defense apparently overcame their fear of giants as Madisons star running back (name unknown) had been having his way in the first half. To be polite, he was HUGE compared to the average 7,8, and 9 year old. As they say though, "The bigger they are, the harder they fall." and fall he did accumulating only four total offensive yards in the entire second half. Led by Jacob Zappitelli on defense, the undersized Warriors utilized team tackling in bringing down the big guy and getting the ball back in the hands of the offense allowing Dale Sheldon, Alex Dufala, Antonio Delion, Jacob Tackett, and Dominic Ciesicki to use brute force on the line and giving room to run for Pocatko, Fitchet, and M. Delion for a team total of 168 yards of rushing offense. Madisons inability to convert after their first half touchdowns proved vital for the Warriors when Fitchet converted after Pocatkos first TD. Pocatko scrambled in from 25 yards out for his second TD with just over three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter and the defense was called upon once again to put on the clamps. They did just that pushing the Cowboys backwards for negative seven yards on four rushing attempts effectively sealing the win. With our usual dfensive stars getting their tackles, William Walker and Kurt Warren stepped up their games as well giving the additional defensive help the Warriors needed and allowing them to host their playoff opener next week (opponent unknown as of yet) at Warrior Stadium. The Lower Grey team hopes to get a chance to avenge their only loss against the Lower Jefferson team from the season opener and it appears that just may happen as the young Falcons have also clinched a home field advantage as well. The possible re-match would prove to be a grudge match made in our local midget football heaven and we hope to see a large contingent of fans at all our remaining playoff games to support our little Warriors!
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