Second half Underway: Week 9 Game Picks

I have yet to post my first half awards, but they will hopefully be up within the next day or so. Until then, enjoy me Week 9 preview and predictions. At the end I have added how I have fared with my game picks this season, including a week-to-week breakdown.

Sunday Nov. 6

Bills over Jets...I expect New York's struggles to continue against East rival Buffalo. Rex has yet to back up his big talk.

Cowboys over Seahawks...Tony Romo looks to bounce back from the embarrassment against Philly.

Texans over Browns...I'm already starting to question why I thought Cleveland had found their franchise quarterback in Colt McCoy.

Falcons over Colts...Indy's woes will continue against Atlanta, keeping them in perfect position for the first pick in 2012's draft.

Chiefs over Dolphins...the 'Fins are still alive and well in the race for the No. 1 picks, as well.

Bucs over Saints...if we learned anything last week, it's that New Orleans has weaknesses and are more than beatable if they are exposed.

Niners over Skins...Washington's great start has already been replaced by mediocre quarterback play. Harbaugh's Niners continue to storm through its schedule.

Raiders over Broncos...another off-day for Tebow in the making against Rolando McClain, Richard Seymour and the Raiders?

Bengals over Titans...Rookie Andy Dalton and his Cincy squad have quietly put up quite the fight in the North, and should improve on that record against Hasselbeck's Titans.

Rams over Cardinals...coming off a disgusting second half performance against Baltimore, the Cards will have to stop a hot Steven Jackson and St. Louis offense.

Patriots over Giants...being without Ahmad Bradshaw and Hakeem Nicks will be too much for Eli Manning's Giants against New England.

Packers over Chargers...Aaron Rodgers' MVP season likely wont sputter in San Diego one bit.

Ravens over Steelers...Baltimore's defense has been on a tear, and Pittsburgh will likely be without its three star LBs (Harrison, Woodley and Farrior). Too much to overcome against this Baltimore team, I believe.

Monday Nov. 7

Eagles over Bears...both teams have struggled to perform on a consistent basis, week-in and week-out. But if Cutler can limit the mistakes and use Matt Forte properly they can expose Philly's D.

Bye weeks: Panthers, Lions, Jaguars, Falcons

My 2011 Picks

Week 1: 9-7

Week 2: 13-3

Week 3: 10-6

Week 4: 11-5

Week 5: 8-5

Week 6: 7-6

Week 7: 8-5

Week 8: 9-4

Total for season: 75-41

Photo credit

Bush: AP Photo

Suggs: AP Photo

Tomlinson On the Verge of History

It has come to my attention that in the coming weeks we could see New York Jets running back LaDainian Tomlinson. The 32-year back, who made a name for himself as an All Pro with the San Diego Chargers from 2001-2009, could find himself crack the top five in career rushing yards as early as tomorrow.

Currently sitting at 13,515 career rushing yards in his 11-year career, L.T. is now just 148 yards shy of passing former St. Louis Ram and Pittsburgh Steeler Jerome Bettis for fifth in the league's history.

Tomlinson has carried the ball just 34 times for 111 yards in seven games (just one start) behind Shonn Greene this season, meaning it is unlikely he will surpass "The Bus" in tomorrow's game against the Buffalo Bills.

But either way it's highly possible we could see him accomplish the feat against New England (Nov. 13), Denver (Nov. 17) or Buffalo (Nov. 27).

It's obvious that Tomlinson has already earned his spot in the Hall of Fame, and he still may play another season or two once 2011 wraps up. By the time the end of his career rolls around, Tomlinson may even find himself at No. 4 on the all-time list as he is just 586 yards shy of Curtis Martin's 14,101 rushing yards.

Sitting at No. 2 on the all-time rushing TDs list (144) behind Emmitt Smith's 164, Tomlinson will go down as one of the most dangerous running backs in the NFL's long history. Joining such names as Smith, Bettis, Martin, Walter Payton, Barry Sanders, Marcus Allen, Jim Brown, John Riggins, Franco Harris, Eric Dickerson and Earl Campbell.

Among the five ahead of him on the list, none of them (Smith, Payton, Sanders, Martin, Bettis) ever put up a 100+ reception, 700+ receiving yards, 4 TD season, which Tomlinson accomplished in 2003. One more sidenote, that same season ('03), L.T. rushed for 1,645 yards and 13 TDs at age 24 and did not make the Pro Bowl roster.

His accomplishments that season were overshadowed by Jamal Lewis' 2,000 yard season and Ahman Green's 1,800 yard, 14 TD season.

The fact Tomlinson was very successful coming out of the backfield as a receiver (602 receptions, 4,583 yards, 16 TDs) leads me to believe he may be the best dual-threat running back to ever play the game. His reception total is 17th among active players, not just RBs.

The one thing L.T. had going against him is he seemed to struggle in the postseason, rushing for 100 yards just once in 10 career playoff games (team has gone 5-5 in those games). He did manage to find the end zone on seven different occasions in those games, but averaged just 3.5 yards per carry throughout.

He still holds the record for most rushing TDs in a single-season, 28 in '06, and it's clear that his #21 jersey will be retired by the Chargers one day. Personally I'd love to see him put up one more respectable season with New York and then sign a one-day contract with San Diego before retiring a Charger.

He's a legend in Sunny San Diego.

Note: photo found and borrowed from draftdaysuit.com, no copyright infringement intended

Detroit: The NFL's new 'Bad Boyz?'

In just a couple of months, the Detroit Lions have gone from cellar-dweller in the NFC North to possible playoff contenders.

Not only that, but head coach Jim Schwartz and second-year, reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year Ndamukong Suh are already on their way to creating Detroit a new persona.

Just three seasons removed from going 0-16, the hiring of coach Schwartz has gradually improved the state of the Detroit franchise. In his first two seasons at the helm, Schwartz's record was 8-24. Believe it or not, that was huge improvement for a team that hasn't been to the postseason since its 8-8 season in 1999.

Those eight victories from 2009-2010 were just two shy of the 10 wins the Lions captured in the previous three seasons under Rod Marinelli (3-13 in '06, 7-9 in '07 and 0-16 in '08).

So far this season? Well, the ever-so-developing third-year quarterback Matthew Stafford has his Lions at 6-2–one and a half games behind NFC North's leading Green Bay Packers (7-0). Stafford seems to have fully recovered from the shoulder injury suffered last season, forcing him to sit out most of the season and start just three games.

It's taken him a while to develop in to the NFL starter he is today, but with a guy like Calvin Johnson, the NFL's leading receiver with 11 TDs in eight games this season, to his disposal Stafford could be in for a huge second half.

But, here's where the "Bad Boyz" reputation comes in.

After going to the Pro Bowl as a rookie last season, with 10.5 sacks at defensive tackle, Ndamukong Suh is now known as one of the NFL's tough guys.

The lovable losers from the past decade have quickly turned in to the team that everybody loves to hate this season. How so quick? Well perhaps it's due to the cockiness of Suh, who has racked up $42,500 in fines in just 24 starts over his first season and a half of professional play. Such penalties as roughing the passer (once), unnecessary roughness (twice), facemask (once) and a horse-collar tackle were all called against him in just his rookie season.

In a preseason matchup with Cleveland last season, Suh was seen lifting up Browns' veteran quarterback Jake Delhomme and slamming him in to the turf. Later in the week, of course, a fine came Suh's way.

Suh has even gone as far as saying "I'm not going to change the way I play. I feel that the way I'm playing and the way that I've played in the past is continuing to play within the rules." (quote courtesy of ESPN.com).

This quote came after meeting with Commissioner Roger Goodell on his style of play, which is, of course, agressive. Sometimes even over-aggressive. But, you heard the man. He's not going to change his ways, meaning more fines may be coming his way in the future.

---

Coach Schwartz and Suh's fellow defensive lineman Cliff Avril can both add their name to the list of hated Detroit Lions after separate incidents this season.

Schwartz, after Detroit suffered its first loss of the season to Jim Harbaugh's 6-1 San Francisco 49ers, nearly went at it with Harbaugh after he felt Harbaugh was being a "sore winner" during the postgame handshake in the middle of the field.

Words were exchanged and a livid Schwartz was caught on film attempting to chase Harbaugh down, pushing and shoving ensued, but nothing else. In the end, Schwartz appeared as a "sore loser," and possibly even a whining baby.

Avril's "incident" was more entertaining and playful (to me, at least) than anything else. During Detroit's shellacking of Tim Tebow's Broncos last weekend, Avril, after sacking Tebow twice throughout the game ended up "Tebowing" overtop of Tebow himself. Many fans were distraught and got their pannies in a bunch, although I would like to believe that Avril was having fun with it, rather than malicious taunting of the quarterback.

For those who are not aware, Tebowing is a new internet "craze" similar to that of planking in which a person kneels down on one knee and puts their head down–mimicking that of Tebow, which he does when praying before/after games.

The idea of Tebowing seems rather offensive to me, but I do believe Avril was just having fun with it. He didn't start the craze, but he is surely hated in Denver after pulling that fast one.

Whether or not you believe in my theory of Detroit being a team fans have loved to hate so far this season, it's surely true that Detroit has been in the limelight far more often this season than they have in the past seasons.

Look, they have a bye week this weekend and they still manage to make it on my blog page. That's gotta tell you something, right?

Photo credit
Schwartz: Leon Halip/Getty Images
Avril: Doug Pensinger/Getty Images

Q&A Session with Baltimore's Assistant O-Line Coach Todd Washington

Earlier today I got the chance to talk with former professional lineman Todd Washington. Washington was a four-year starter at Virginia Tech before being selected in the fourth round (104th overall) of the 1998 NFL draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The First Team All-Big East standout played eight NFL seasons with the Bucs (98-02) and Houston Texans (03-05) before he was forced to retire early due to injury.

The 35-year old is now the Assistant Offensive Line coach with the Baltimore Ravens after OL and Offensive coordinator stints with the University of San Diego and the UFL's Hartford Colonials.

Washington was nice of enough to answer a few of my questions on SOTL (a new interactive website featuring current and former NFL players and fans), his playing career, coaching career and even former teammates.

 

 

Ben Heck, A-OB: First off, the creation of schoolofthelegends.com has added a whole new way of players interacting with current and former teammates, opponents and even fans of the National Football League. Has it had a huge impact on your personal life and how you go about your daily life? And if so, how much?

Todd Washington, BAL Asst. OL Coach: In my world, the schoolofthelegends.com has definitely impacted both my personal and professional life in a great way. This actually gives fans a way to communicate with their favorite players, active or retired. They get to have an understanding of what we actually go through just to get to game day. They can ask us questions and they will get answers from the ACTUAL person. Not their assistant. This platform is the beginning of something wonderful and I'm glad that I am a part of it.


BH: You had great success in college as a four-year starter at center and guard for the Virginia Tech Hokies. What would you say your most memorable moment/accomplishment was at the college level?

TW: There has been a great deal of memorable moments for me at Virginia Tech. I came from a very small high school. (Nandua High School. Onley, VA) Being recruited by Virginia Tech and other big schools was a big deal for my hometown. One moment I think about the most is my sophomore year, we started the season 0 and 2. We ran the table and went 9 and 2. We met Texas in the 1995 Sugar Bowl and won 28 to 10. The ultimate moment was when I walked across the podium and was handed my degree in education. That is something no one can take away from me.


BH: It had to of been tough waiting four rounds in the NFL draft for your name to be called. What was that feeling like once you did hear your name announced in the 1998 draft?

TW: I pretty much knew that I was going to be a second day draft choice. A lot of offensive linemen before me were drafted earlier than projected so I knew it was a matter of time. I was watching the draft and saw that Carolina was on the clock. At that time, the phone rang and it was Tony Dungy (then the coach of the Buccaneers). We talked for some time, and he told me that they traded up and drafted me. I was overcome with so much emotion, that time stood still for a minute. You think about all the work you put in just to get to this point. A franchise saw enough me in to bring me in and play for them. Its a honor and a privilege that I'm very blessed and thankful to have had.


BH: Do you still keep in touch with some of your old teammates from Tampa Bay or Houston?

TW: I do. I am really great friends with Ronde Barber and his family. He's like a brother to me. We knew each other before we played against each other in college. My father taught his mom. I went to Randall McDaniel's Hall of Fame induction ceremony. We email from time to time. Me and Raheem Morris will exchange texts as well. I stay in touch with Mark Bruener. He is now a scout for the Steelers. As for coaches, I stay in touch with Mike Tomlin, Kirby Wilson (Steelers), Joe Marciano (Texans) , and many others. I try to keep my network big and very active.


BH: You've worked a couple of different gigs in college (Univ. of SD offensive line/OC) and the UFL (Hartford Colonials OL coach) before landing your current professional coaching job. What's the biggest difference between working in the NFL and working at a lower level such as college or the UFL?

TW: Yes, I've worked different gigs and been all over. I realized that no matter where you are, coaching is coaching. Football is football. The players you work with all love this game. The caliber of they player may change but that's the joy of it for me. Working at USD was great for me. The players were very eager to learn and worked very hard. Working there made me a better teacher of the game. I firmly believe that coaching is one thing, be being able to teach football to players, you will see them grow and mature faster in front of your eyes.

The UFL was a lot of fun. I coached players that have played in the NFL that wanted to get back in, or players that didn't get drafted and need playing experience. Again, being able to teach the game is important. At that time, we had the #1 Offense and Rushing attack. The UFL has been ridiculed, but the level of play is better that what people my believe. They get after it. Its a very competitive league. I hope that it finds a way to keep going.


BH: As Baltimore's offensive line coach this season, what would you say your No. 1 priority is: protecting Joe Flacco and giving him time in the pocket, or opening up running lanes for running back Ray Rice?

TW: Wow, putting me on the spot (haha). Well, me being a former offensive lineman, my philosophy is pretty straight forward. You throw the ball to score. You run the ball to win. You have to have balance in these two areas to be successful. The teams that win in this league does both really well.

BH: Guard Ben Grubbs has been out of action since Week 1, do you have any idea when he will be back to full health?

TW: Unfortunately, I am not allowed to discuss any injuries that our players have. Ben has been working his tail off. He wants to get back out there, he's a true competitor.

BH: Who is the current offensive lineman in the league that you most admire, whether it be for his on-field ability or his work ethic, or something else about the way he approaches the game (doesn't have to be a Raven)?

TW: There are a couple of linemen that I admire and really enjoy watching them play. And yes, they happen to be Ravens. The first one is Bryant McKinnie, our left tackle. "B Mac" came to us late into training camp after the Vikings released him. SInce he's been here, he has lost a ton of weight and is playing with great confidence. He wants to be the best and he is starting to show the level of play that got him into the Pro Bowl.

The next one is Michael Oher. Mike has been the left tackle for the Ravens. We all know about the movie so I don't need to talk about it. However, Mike was just getting comfortable with the position when we signed McKinnie. Without hesitation, Mike made the switch to right tackle. You really don't see that anymore. It is very rare. When you have players like Mike that makes decisions like that, the sky's the limit for the team.

Also, Andre Gurode. He's a center that was released by the Cowboys. He has come in and played left guard, replacing the injured Ben Grubbs.

I could go on and on, but these three guys have showed what it takes to be a true team player. We wouldn't be where we are right now without them.

BH: Do you have any other last comments for any kids/athletes aspiring to make it to the professional level as either a player and/or coach?

TW: If you have the dream to make it in the NFL as a player or a coach, then do all you can to achieve it. The path to the league is not an easy one. It is designed like that for a reason. Keep working on your craft. Make sure you stay in close contact with people that are in position to help further your career. You will have times of heartbreak and disappointment. You may have to take a step back to go forward. You may even have people that you rely on turn you down. Don't let that stop you. The league needs new faces. New blood that are hungry and are willing to do what it takes to win. It took me a while, but I made it.


I look back at my journey from the internships at East Texas Baptist to being the Offensive Line Asst with the Ravens and I am truly thankful for everyone that has helped me along the way. This is just the beginning for me.


BH: Thank you very much for your time, Mr. Washington.


Look out for more interviews of former or current players coming in the near future..


Note: Image found on/borrowed from the Baltimore Ravens' website. I do not own it, nor am I attempting to take credit for the photo.

Power Rankings: Top 10 Teams Heading in to Week 9

I have yet to post power rankings, so I thought the day after the completion of Week 8 would be a great time to start.

The No. 1 team is a no-brainer, but the rest of the top 10 is a little foggy as of the first of November..

Just missed: Bengals 5-2, Chicago Bears 4-3, New York Jets 4-3

10. New York Giants 5-2

Eli Manning and the Giants have been relatively quiet in the NFC East, though they currently hold a two-game lead over Philadelphia and Washington. The G-Men failed to make headlines over the off-season, as Philly received much of the media attention with the free agency frenzy, and all. But I think this may have worked to their advantage.

Head coach Tom Coughlin and his crew have quietly produced a 5-2 record with key wins over Philly and Buffalo. The strength of schedule isn't exactly the strongest, and they have fallen to Washington (28-14) and Seattle (36-25), but you can't blame the Giants for having a couple of weaker opponents. Manning has put up solid numbers (64.7%, 2,127 yards, 13 TD, 5 INT, 102.1 QB Rating), and done enough to just barely crack the Top 10 after eight weeks.

9. Houston Texans 5-3

To me, I think this season has really shown me that Houston has some fight in them. Despite some health issues–Andre Johnson has missed four games, Mario Williams is out for the season and Arian Foster has yet to fully recovery from a lagging hamstring injury–the Texans remain in games.

At 5-3, they are in the drivers seat down South. The Peyton Manning injury may have benefited them most, and Matt Schaub has been doing all he can with what is given to him. Two losses by a touchdown or less (New Orleans and Oakland), a 15-point loss to the 5-2 Baltimore Ravens and two blowout victories (34-7 vs. Indy, 41-7 vs. TEN) puts up quite an impressive resume. Clearly, when they do lose it's not by much, and they also have the ability to put points up on the board. Once Johnson returns to the lineup they will be a scary offense once again.

8. New Orleans Saints 5-3

New Orleans was shocked this past weekend. Not only were the Saints, but the entire Nation seemed to be rattled by the New Orleans loss. To the winless Rams? Really, Drew Brees? New Orleans marched in to St. Louis expecting a blowout, but the Rams made sure they didn't leave until they were embarrassed in all aspects of the game (except passing, of course).

Brees threw two critical interceptions, one returned 27 yards for a touchdown, and Rams' RB Steven Jackson ran over NO's defense for 159 yards and two TDs in the 10-point victory. Brees' off-day dropped the Saints to 5-3 on the year, and instead of extending a division lead over Tampa (4-3) and Atlanta (4-3), they are now struggling to stay a top the standings.

7. New England Patriots 5-2

Tom Brady is still Tom Brady, and will find a way to put points on the board. But after Sunday the Pats have taken a couple of steps back. Obviously Pittsburgh is a tough opponent, especially at Heinz Field, but this was supposed to be the game that proved the Patriots were still the team to beat in the AFC. The loss shows me that we may finally be seeing a changing of the guards in the East.

Buffalo beat them earlier in the season after executing an improbable comeback to take the victory by three points, and I think people may be starting to get more excited to see the underdog Fitzpatrick throw a strike to Steve Johnson than Brady to Wes Welker. They are at No. 7 this week simply because I think Buffalo has stolen the spotlight in the East this season, and currently sit at No. 1 in the division.

6. Buffalo Bills 5-2

Buffalo is one of several surprisers this season. Fresh off locking up Ryan Fitzpatrick for an additional six years, the Bills took care of the up-and-down Redskins with a 23-0 shutout this past weekend. The victory put them at 5-2 and atop the AFC East due to the head-to-head tiebreaker with New England.

Buffalo is one of six teams in the league that has put up over 200 points on the year, scoring nine more than the Pats in seven games. Fred Jackson's 5.5 yards per carry has elevated Buffalo's game to the next level. He seems to be the first constant running back the Bills have had since losing Willis McGahee following the 2006 season.

5. Baltimore Ravens 5-2

Baltimore's defense is what has kept them in games. Joe Flacco has shown some weakness and Cam Cameron, in some games, has failed to properly use Ray Rice. Rice was handed the ball just eight times last week against Jacksonville in the team's 12-7 loss. The offense failed to produce a first down until midway through the third quarter.

If it wasn't for that porous performance, and their slow-starting first half Sunday against Arizona, Baltimore would be ahead of Pittsburgh right now. But, Pittsburgh owns the momentum heading in to its match-up with Baltimore this week despite the 35-7 Week 1 loss. We will truly find out who owns the AFC North after Sunday night.

4. Pittsburgh Steelers 6-2

Pittsburgh's offensive line finally stepped its game up against New England on Sunday, providing ample time for quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to hit his targets in stride, picking apart NE's secondary en route to a 365-yard, 2 TD day.

The defense proved they had the secret ingredient to stopping Tom Brady in his tracks. Something just one other team has accomplished this season (Buffalo). They are still last in the league in forced turnovers, with three, which is still shocking to most, but they have still found ways to get the job done.

3. Detroit Lions 6-2

Jim Schwartz's Lions dropped two in a row to San Fran and the Atlanta Falcons, but after this past weekend's shellacking of Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos (45-10), I think it's safe to say that Matthew Stafford is back to full health.

Detroit is undefeated on the road and has scored the second-most points in the league, behind only New Orleans, with 239. Yes, this means they have scored more than division counterpart Green Bay, although that stat is a little skewed considering Detroit has played on more game than Rodgers and the Pack this season. Either way, Detroit has certainly put a great amount of points up on the board this season and will continue to do so as long as Stafford has Calvin "Megatron" Johnson and Titus Young to dispose the ball to.

2. San Francisco 49ers 6-1

Say what you want about the "weak schedule" the Niners have dealt with so far–although I will admit victories over such teams as Seattle and Cleveland isn't exactly eye-popping–San Francisco has lifted eyebrows this season.

Head coach Jim Harbaugh has been impressive in his first season at the helm as his Patrick Willis-led defense has allowed just 107 points (leads all defenses) and lost just one game–a 27-24 defeat at the hands of the Cowboys in Week 2. Harbaugh's fiery passion, which came out after his 25-19 victory over the 6-2 Detroit Lions, has been the Niners' fuel this season.

1. Green Bay Packers 7-0

Like I said–no brainer. Super Bowl MVP Aaron Rodgers has picked up right where he left off in February. His 20 TD passes lead the league, and he's thrown just three interceptions. Rodgers is also first in QB rating (125.7), yards per pass (9.9) and third in yards (2,372).

Green Bay's defense has only held its opposition to under 20 points twice (Chicago 17, St. Louis 3), but with the offense putting up as much points as they do–33 per game on average–the defense can let up as many points as they so desire. With Rodgers on the field, Green Bay is the most dangerous team in the league, by far.

Photo credit

Vilma: Stacy Revere/Getty Images

Rice: Larry French/Getty Images

Harbaugh/Davis: Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

MNF: Chargers at Chiefs Live Blog

This is a pivotal game in the AFC West, as the San Diego Chargers–led by Pro Bowl quarterback Philip Rivers, who is having a rough start with 7 TDs and 9 INTs–go in two Arrowhead in an attempt to add on to its division lead.

Opening kickoff by KC's Ryan Succop goes through the end zone

Surprise? False start on SD to start the game...Arrowhead is surely one of the toughest stadiums to play in. Just look at all that red.

A 3-and-out for the Bolts to open the game in Kansas City, Missouri.

Interesting piece of information: SD's defense consists of three rookies. One of the few vets on this unit is LB Takeo Spikes. Should make for an interesting match-up with Matt Cassel's offense.

Wideout alongside All Pro Dwayne Bowe for KC is rookie Jonathan Baldwin, who is off to a great start tonight with a 17-yard catch and a first down.

Third and long converted with a 26-yard strike to Bowe, one of the top receivers in this game. That now gives Kansas City two third downs on long pass plays. Cassel is exploiting San Diego's inexperienced secondary early and often...may be the key to beating this defense without RB Jamaal Charles in the lineup.

Kansas City head coach Todd Haley uses his first timeout of the game with 9:54 to play in the opening quarter.

After a false start, Kansas City faces a 3rd & 15 without Bowe on the field. Baldwin's 10 yard reception comes up short of the first after being pushed out of bounds by SD's rookie corner Marcus Gilchrist. Sets up a field goal try.

Six minutes in to the game Succop hits from 36-yards out, giving Kansas City the early 3-0 lead.

Color analyst Jon Gruden–the former Super Bowl-winning head coach–points out what a great start KC's Brandon Flowers has had, and I'd have to agree. On the first drive he played a huge impact with coverage on Vincent Jackson and support in the run game...the very next play safety Kendrick Lewis picked off his third pass of the season.

It appears as though utility man (as I like to call him) Dexter McCluster may have fumbled the ball right back to San Diego. The ruling was a fumble, but after looking at the replay it looks as if he may have been down by contact.

Play is being reviewed after a KC challenge

Oh my, ruling stands as a Kansas City fumble–Chargers ball. I agree with Mike Tirico, Gruden and Ron Jaworski, though. Looked like McCluster was down...not enough evidence? Psh, definitely down by contact.
First completion for Rivers on 3rd & 9 to Patrick Crayton for a SD first down.

Next play he overthrows Jackson deep down the field and the interception is DROPPED by Flowers. Easy pick there, I must have praised him too quickly.

Running back Ryan Mathews doesn't give up too easily. More poor tackling by KC, seems to be a theme around the NFL this season.

ALMOST FORGOT--Mike Tolbert is inactive tonight (maybe I should pick a different photo to use, hmmm).

Third & 4 deep in KC territory. Perhaps Rivers should get the ball to Antonio Gates or Malcom Floyd.
Kansas City's crowd has taken over the game already after Rivers' second interception of the game on the third down play (LB Derrick Johnson)...two drives for SD, two Rivers interceptions–gives him 11 on the season

Not the Rivers I'm used to, he threw 13 picks all of last season, and just nine the year before that. It was tipped at the line (unlucky) but a costly mistake nonetheless. Missed out on three points there.

Costly mistake with a helmet-to-helmet hit, looked accidental, but will tack on 15 more for KC...setting up Matt Cassel's 39-yard bomb to BALDWIN for the touchdown reception. The young striker went up and caught the pass at its highest point, over the SD defender. Gives KC a 10-0 lead nearing the end of the first. Rivers is irate, pacing the sideline.

First KO we've seen returned so far tonight, but Richard Goodman fails to reach the 20-yard line.

"Jaws" argues the hit on the "defenseless" receiver, which is a new rule this year that you cannot have contain with a defenesless receiver's head. I agree to an extent, with Jaws, but helmet-to-helmet hits are dangerous, thus the reason why Commissioner Roger Goodell is attempting to crackdown.

...in other news, another false start for SD's o-line. Fans at Arrowhead are alive and well, as expected.

With Kris Dielman out of the lineup for the Bolts, keep your eye on Kansas City's Tamba Hali. What a scary pass rusher. He has been the reason for both of San Diego's false starts, and just now drew a holding call on Marcus McNeil, SD's left tackle.

---End of the first---

San Diego has controlled the clock throughout the first quarter (17 plays, 8:04 for SD; 14 plays, 6:56 for KC), but has been outgained by Cassel and Co. (5/8, 106 yards, 1 TD).

Two turnovers for the Bolts have been key to the Chiefs' success. Another failed third down conversion (1/4) to start second quarter for SD, giving the ball back to Kansas City with Mike Scifres' second punt of the evening...his first punt traveled 63 yards.

Can't agree more with Gruden's last statement (shocker, I know)...it's time for Kansas City to drop the hammer and put the Bolts away. Can't let up and make any mistakes, or Rivers will make. you. pay.

Great field position for San Diego after a 52-yard KC punt. If Rivers can't capitalize on this opportunity, he should be prepare for the worst. Cassel has been picking the secondary apart so far tonight.
Oops, scratch that. Stupid 15-yard unnecessary roughness penalty called on the receiving team. He ran up and hit a KC player from behind AFTER that play was whistled dead. Dumb penalty committed by a player just signed off the practice squad earlier today. Drive will now start at the 28, rather than the 43-yard line for Rivers.

And we finally have an Antonio Gates signing, catching a 27-yard strike from Rivers. It's his 14th reception of the season after missing most of the season with injury.

It's not often you see this happen, but KC's Flowers drew an offensive pass interference penalty after an overthrow from Rivers in the end zone. This offense has been off-rhythm all night, and they are forced to take their first timeout, facing a 3rd and 21.
Kicker Nick Novak is now 12 for 12 this season with a successful 44-yard field goal try. Another failed third down conversion for Rivers and Co...1/5 on the night now.

Interesting. I had no idea that Matt Cassel played on special teams during his days at USC. Obviously I was aware that he hadn't gotten to play much at quarterback because of Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart, but it's pretty cool that he went out and played on the kick-off team during some games. He was taken in the seventh round of the 2005 draft by his original team, the New England Patriots.

The 29-year old is in his third season as Kansas City's starting signal caller, as he and his crew just went on a three-and-out drive. Rivers should be set up with decent field position, looking to tie it up halfway through the second quarter of play.

Rivers has slowly, but surely, been quieting this Kansas City crowd with three straight completions. Offensive line has been giving him plenty of time in the pocket on this drive.

But he just can't catch a break. Safety John McGraw stripped Mathews of the ball and Kendrick Lewis jumped on it. Kansas City ball.

Mistakes. Mistakes. Mistakes. Just when San Diego had taken control, the momentum went back over to the home team.

The veteran Thomas Jones has been relatively quiet this season (185 yards on 58 carries, 0 TDs), and that carry was just his third of the game.

Cassel is hit by Travis Laboy, ball comes out but is ruled incomplete, not a fumble, bringing up fourth down. But Norv Turner has decided to challenge the ruling. After watching the replay it could be reversed, but I wouldn't expect it to be overruled (not enough evidence to overturn the incompletion).

Ruling reversed by officials. Say whaaaaa?! It was a bang-bang play and could've gone either way, but despite the questionable overturn, I do believe he made the right call after the review. San Diego gets the ball at KC's 22. If Rivers can't finish the deal and get the ball in the end zone, I would be worried. Mathews carries the ball in to the red zone on first down, where the SD Chargers are 24th in the league this season (11 for 24).

A third offensive PI call is made on TE Antonio Gates, negating a touchdown after his impressive catch. I didn't see where the interference was made, but it bumps back SF regardless.

Linebacker Derrick Johnson (INT earlier in game gets to Rivers and brings him down for a sack on second down, avoiding a potential Mathews block. Third and 22 for SD, as Mathews is brought down short.

ANOTHER Charger penalty (holding on a screen pass to Mathews), brings them back 10 yards and now 3rd & 32. That now makes 21 penalties for the Chargers in the last six quarters of play as we hit the two minute warning.

Sloppy game offensively for San Diego...they may be winning the T.O.P. battle, and be out-gaining Kansas City, plus more offensive plays. But eight first half penalties for a total of 80 yards has surely killed any rhythm Rivers' offense may have had. Not to mention the three turnovers. Ugly, ugly, ugly.

A 50-yard attempt up-coming for Novak, made from 44 yards earlier...he missed it this time, had the distance but was a foot or two wide right. Kansas City takes over with 1:11 to play in the first half and one TO left.

KC's first 1st down of the second quarter came with under :20 to play as they attempt to get in to field goal range just before the half...which Succop nails from 47 yards out with :03 remaining.

13-3 Kansas City at the half at Arrowhead. Less-than-impressive two-minute drill, but it gets the job done for Haley's crew as they extended the lead just before break.

---expect Rivers to come back out in the second half with motivation---

Ew, now we get to listen to Chris "Boomer" Berman for 10 minutes during the halftime show. Just lovely.

Going to try and update this a little less in the second half, and just add more insight when I do update it. Rather than do a play-by-play type of deal like I did in the first half. Too much type to read from the first two quarters. I don't know about you, but I'm hoping for more offensive explosion from San Diego in the second half, rather than mistake after mistake. Get your stuff together, Rivers!

–Second half–

No surprise here, another false start penalty to open San Diego's opening drive of the second half after a KC punt. Backs them up deep in their own territory, and the penalty was the team's 10th of the game.

Rivers finally opening up the vertical passing game with a wobbly pass to Gates. It was right on target, though. He's over 200 yards now, and counting.

Rivers has been hit twice all game, and sacked just once (D. Johnson). He has done a spectacular job at getting rid of the ball, checking it down to his backs just before the defensive line closes in on him. Considering Dielman is out, SD's line has done a decent job.

Nick Novak just barely squeezes that ball in between the uprights from 44 yards out. San Diego has now had the ball inside the KC 34 on five separate occasions tonight, and only has six points (two FGs) to show for it. 13-6 KC with 8:10 remaining in the third quarter. Cassel will be getting the ball back.

Baldwin has been a huge asset to this offense, as his 6'4'' body has made for a great downfield target opposite Bowe. If it wasn't for the great success of quarterbacks Cam Newton, Christian Ponder, Andy Dalton and wideout A.J. Green, I would say Baldwin is a top pick for Offensive Rookie of the Year so far this season. So many rookies stepping it up this season. Great to see, no doubt.

And Cassel makes his first mistake of the game (aside from the fumble, I guess) as Eric Weddle picks him off after a deflection.

San Diego starts at the Chiefs' 33, sixth time they have been inside KC's 34 tonight. Will Rivers finally capitalize on such as great opportunity?

Chiefs' defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel put the pressure on Rivers, forcing him to overthrow a double-covered Gates on third down. San Diego is now 2/9 on third downs tonight, bringing on Novak for the third time, hitting from 42. Kansas City up just four now.

I was expecting plenty more offense tonight, but instead just one touchdown between these two teams with six minutes to play in the third. Hmph!

McCluster has done too much dancing around out of the backfield tonight. He's shown great speed and explosiveness on kick returns, but hasn't managed any yards rushing on five carries. Give him a couple looks in the screen game, and maybe he will break a long one.

Still waiting for Rivers to break-out the gun tonight. Maybe on this drive? Only down four and solid field position (again).

Rivers has shown some inaccuracy tonight, overthrowing several targets and throwing a couple additional passes a bit high to his receivers...but that quick slant to Malcom Floyd picked him up 37 yards and a first down in KC's red zone.

Earlier I said that KC hasn't touched Rivers that often, but that may be because they have him running for his life instead...

He hasn't received much help, a holding call on the o-line was just declined, bringing up yet another fourth down and a very short 26-yard FG attempt. He splits it through and that's now seven times inside KC's 35, and only four field goals to show for it.

Scuffling in the center of the field after the kick, but no punches or flags thrown. This is what I call the wild, wild West...two teams scrapping for points in this one in a battle for division supremacy.

I get excited every time McCluster touches that ball on kick-offs, though he has yet to break-free for a long TD run tonight.

End of the third qtr now, with Cassel and the Chiefs' O driving. Two straight positive plays, almost seems like the first time all half that that has happened. Lets hope for less penalties (16 combined in first three qtrs) and more TDs in the final quarter of play. With it being a 13-12 game, I do believe the final quarter will turn in to a shoot-out between Cassel and Rivers.

---Quarter 4---

The flea-flicker attempt goes for just three yards as San Diego put the pressure on Cassel. He had no time to look deep and was forced to dump the ball off to bring up third down.

Cassel used his legs to create something out of nothing, converting the 3rd and 3 with his legs. The team's first rushing first down of the game...the next play Jackie Battle ran 11 yards for rushing FD No. 2. Now inside the SD 30, Cassel is starting to finally look like an NFL quarterback again. I was beginning to worry. Injury timeout for SD's Quentin Jammer, who's been around for ages it seems...he's actually just 32-years old.

Jackie Battle breaks through the first line of defense on a counter and is nearly untouched to the end zone. For now, ruled a touchdown for Kansas City. But due to the new rule put in place this season, the play will automatically be reviewed upstairs, and there's a chance he could be ruled down by contact just short of the goal line. Either way, Battle has put Kansas City in great position.

Battle, taking the place of Charles after his season-ending injury, has yet to score this season on 45 rush attempts. The 28-year old was undrafted out of Houston, and has been a part of the KC organization since 2007 after being cut by Dallas prior to the start of the season.

The call has been over-ruled, and the ball will be placed on the 1-yard line, first and goal. First play, though, Battle comes right back and launches himself over the line for his first touchdown of 2011, third of his career. Almost Walter Payton-esque on the play. The extra point gives KC an eight-point lead, 20-12 with 12:01 left.

Rivers does a fantastic job at keeping the play alive after nearly being knocked down by his own lineman/Tamba Hali's arm, hits Patrick Crayton on the right side of the field who turns in to a solid gain. McGraw comes out of the game due to an apparent injury–looks like he's just shaken up. Donald Washington has replaced him at safety. McGraw, replacing second-year safety Eric Berry after he was lost for the season, has five tackles and a FF in the game.

Hali beat McNeil on the outside and dragged Rivers down by the shoelace! What an athletic specimen is Hali. Pro Bowler last year, Hali led the AFC with 14.5 sacks. That's five on the season for him.

Rivers once again extends the play and hits his man down the field for 27 yards. This is exactly why it's so exciting watching him play. He's a gun-slinger who just doesn't give up on plays. He can move in the pocket very well and keeps his eyes down the field in the process. I think I may be feeling a 4th qtr comeback...the three-time Pro Bowler has 13 of them in his eight-year career.

Looked like another overthrown receiver, but Rivers led backup running back Curtis Brinkley perfectly who is brought down inside the KC 2-yard line. Brinkley cleared the line, exposing the ball as he reached over the goal-line. Ruling on field is a touchdown before the ball was knocked loose, and watching the replay it's obvious he cleared the line long before it was knocked loose.

Brinkley's first career reception on one play, and then his first career touchdown the following play. The two-point conversion is currently being reviewed upstairs (it was ruled good), as it's unclear whether or not SD cleared the plane. If it's confirmed, San Diego would tie the game at 20. If not, KC would retain a one-point lead halfway through the quarter.

It was, in fact, confirmed upstairs. It was Brinkley once again who caught the two-pointer. The play capped a 10-play, 80-yard scoring drive that ate up over four minutes of the clock. Tied at 20 with over seven minutes remains after McCluster failed to bring the kick-off past the 20-yard line.

Injury update: Quentin Jammer is battling cramps and has yet to return. Trainers are working on him on the SD sidelines, though, and he hopes to return soon.


Battle failed to convert on third and short, bringing up a three-and-out for Kansas City. Not good for the Chiefs, giving the ball back to Rivers.

More tight coverage from Brandon Flowers, although it doesn't much matter because another penalty was called against LT McNeill, illegal hands to the face up against Tamba Hali. That's the Bolts' 12th of the night, and they are now over 100 yards in penalties. #ugly

Mathews is on the sideline without his helmet in his hand, meaning he could be injured according to Mike Tirico. More amazing coverage for Flowers, who has 4 tackles and now picked up his fourth pass breakup of the night.

Rivers stays in the pocket long enough to convert a 3rd and 18 pass to Patrick Crayton. Play of the night for San Diego's offense? Looks like Brinkley is here to stay for tonight, with Mathews' return questionable (groin injury). Now under three minutes to play, and counting...SD inside KC's 30-yard line.

Brinkley picked up the first down after hurdling a San Diego defender. Coach Turner elects to run down the clock to the two minute warning. Cassel may not even get much of a chance to conduct a game-winning drive if San Diego protects the football.

San Diego may not be able to milk much time out of these two minutes (KC has two TOs remaining) unless they pick up a first down.

Kansas City has now used both timeouts after two positive run plays from San Diego. That will bring up a 3rd and very short for the Chargers. If they can convert, Cassel may not get much of a shot at all.

And Jacob Hester appears to have gotten enough to convert the 3rd and 1, due to forward progress. Kansas City can no longer stop the clock, and with a first down the Chargers could take a lot of the time out.

...RIVERS fumbled the snap and Kansas City recovers at their own 16. That is now his third turnover of the game, and it looks like KC will run the clock out and go to overtime. With two SD timeouts left, Cassel is looking to throw and completes one by the sidelines with just :32 to play. They have a shot at winning this one in regulation. Huge Rivers mistake

Controversy continues to stir in Arrowhead. Kansas City attempts to clock the ball with :16 left, but a Charger defender knocks over a KC lineman, forcing them to lose four seconds of clock. But doesn't matter because Cassel's next pass was picked off by Weddle, his second of the evening. We'll see a hail mary, but I think we will, in fact, head to overtime.

---Overtime---say what?

This is both SD's and KC's first OT game of the 2011 season. Chargers win toss, giving Rivers the first shot at redemption.

Hali's domination continues against SD's left side, this time guard Jeremy Clary, stripping Rivers of the ball and then sacking him back at the 12. Brinkley gets just six on third down, forcing a three-and-out. Yet another tackle from LB Johnson, his 12th of the game. McCluster will get the chance to return Scifres' booming punt, making a few guys miss on the return. A block in the back will put KC back 10 yards to its own 20.

It's about time Kansas City gets the ball to McCluster coming out of the backfield, picking up 12 yards on the catch and a first down. Cassel uses his first of two OT timeouts.

Three McCluster catches for 28 yards in the overtime period, resulting in two KC first downs. The Chiefs are now just a couple of decent plays away from field goal range. We now have a Steve Breaston sighting! Cassel hits him with a short crossing pattern who turns it in to a large gain and a KC first down to the 30-yard line. A couple run plays with Battle should be upcoming for Kansas City, and we could see Succop on the field pretty soon here to set-up a potential game-winner as Battle runs the ball up to the 21.

One last Thomas Jones carry sets up the potential game-winner for Succop, who is 2/2 tonight. Turner has one more timeout and uses it to "ice the kicker," although I don't believe that ever works. Just over five minutes to play as Succop attempts the 30-yarder...he splits the uprights for the win, exactly a year after he hit another game-winner from 35 yards out to beat the Buffalo Bills 13-10 in overtime.

Two Rivers interceptions, a Rivers fumbled snap late in regulation, 12 penalties for 105 yards and a blown call that negated an Antonio Gates' touchdown reception stopped San Diego from putting the feisty Chiefs away.

Rivers falls just short of capturing his 60th regular season win as San Diego's starting quarterback (instead he loses his 28th) as the Kansas City Chiefs extend their win streak to four games after starting the season at 0-3.

Sloppy game, but Cassel got the job done. Goodnight fellas!

Photo credit: US Presswire/AP Photos

Week 8: Did we Learn Anything?

All but one game has been completed in Week 8's weekend of NFL action, and there has been plenty to talk about.

Headliners:

• Cam Newton continues his streak of success, despite another Carolina loss.

• St. Louis shocks Drew Brees and New Orleans without starter Sam Bradford in the lineup.

• Pittsburgh's LaMarr Woodley (2 sacks) and Ryan Clark (8 tackles) contains New England, keeps Brady under 200 passing yards in 25-17 victory at home.

• Baltimore's 24-point second half caps an 18-point comeback win over the one-win Cardinals.

• Colts, Phins add another L to the loss column, remain in the running for "Suck for Luck" campaign (if that's even a real thing).

• Buffalo shuts out Skins (23-0) as the Lions improve to 6-2 after pouncing the Broncos, 45-10; Tebow's offense goes 2/14 on third downs.

• Eagles turn heads, shut down Romo's Cowboys 34-7 on national television.

There were several worthy MVP candidates for great performances this week, but only one could win my Most Valuable Player award for Week 8 (must be on winning team)...and here are the nominees..

LeSean McCoy: 30 att, 185 yards, 2 TD

Steven Jackson: 25 att, 159 yards, 2 TD

Ben Roethlisberger: 36/50, 365 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT

Eli Manning: 31/45, 349 yards, 2 TD

Calvin Johnson: 6 Rec., 125 yards, 1 TD

Christian Ponder: 18/28, 236 yards, 1 TD

Ray Rice: 18 att, 63 yards, 3 TD; 7 Rec., 36 yards

Arian Foster: 33 att, 112 yards, 1 TD; 1 Rec., 12 yards

Marcell Dareus: 4 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 3 QB hits

NaVorro Bowman: 12 tackles (11 solo), 1 TFL, 1 PD

Reggie Nelson: 5 solo tackles, 2 PD, 75-yard INT TD

Matt Hasselbeck: 23/33, 224 yards, 1 TD

AND, the winner is...

New York Giants' quarterback Eli Manning

Without Eli orchestrating the two fourth-quarter scoring drives, the Giants would not have come back from the early 11-point deficit (14-3 in the second qtr) and Miami would have earned its first win of the season. Manning has put up a solid stat-line this season, and New York's 5-2 record has the G-Men atop the NFC East through eight weeks of play.

Rants and Ramblings concerning the masses...

*Rookie quarterback Cam Newton has been the key asset for Carolina's offense, and he has surely impressed everyone and their mother this season despite the Panthers' 2-6 record.

Each week he goes out and leaves everything he has on the field. It already appears as though he has the trust of his teammates, and his results have proved he has potential to get to elite status one day. His combined passing and rushing TDs puts him at 18 total, and though he has thrown nine interceptions, maturity seems to be coming quickly for the young gun.

Five of Carolina's six losses have been within a touchdown or less, meaning Carolina has been blown out just once this season and Newton is at least top five in Offensive Rookie of the Year at this point in the season.

*Green Bay, sitting out this week for its bye, is still the top team in the league without a doubt, but a couple of teams will give the defending Champs a run for its money in the coming weeks: Pittsburgh, New York (Giants), New England, Detroit, and even such teams as San Francisco and Buffalo.

The next couple of weeks the Packers will be on upset watch, in fact I'd like to think they could lose two or three different times in the next five weeks (San Diego, Minnesota, Tampa Bay, Detroit, New York Giants).

Minnesota's rookie quarterback Christian Ponder came up just short last week against Green Bay, 33-27, so what makes you think he couldn't finish the job with Adrian Peterson running the ball out of the backfield for him?

*Speaking of Ponder, he had another great outing yesterday, getting his first win in just his second professional start.

It turned out to be a shootout with fellow rookie signal caller Newton in Carolina. Ponder protected the ball well, throwing for 236 yards and a touchdown, as well, in the three-point victory. Turns out, a missed Olindo Mare ended up being the deciding factor.

*Pittsburgh has bounced back, with Ben Roethlisberger being the key factor in this match-up with the well-rested New England Patriots. Roethlisberger attempted 50 passes, completing 36 of them for two touchdowns and close to 400 yards. He threw the ball 30 times in the opening half and built up an early lead that was hard for Tom Brady & Co. to overcome.

LaMarr Woodley provided great pressure on Brady, sacking him twice and hitting him three times total, while Ryan Clark brought great coverage on Brady's receivers. But, it was actually New England's weak secondary that proved to be the achilles heel of Bill Belichick's squad.

*Tonight's Monday night game has huge implications on the AFC West. Kansas City, without Pro Bowl running back Jamaal Charles–he was lost for the season due to injury–has been struggling to get anything going offensively this season. San Diego has somewhat sputtered this season as well, but we may just have to wait until December to see the real Chargers (just like every other season).

My prediction: Philip Rivers breaks 400 yards passing with two TDs in a 31-17 victory, snapping Kansas City's three-game win streak and improving San Diego's record to 5-2.

Photo credit

Asomugha/Babin: Chris Trotman/Getty Images

Manning: Nick Laham/Getty Images

Ponder: Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images

Woodley: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

Baltimore's Joe Flacco Ready to Bounce Back?

One week, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco could be throwing for 224 yards and three touchdowns, and the next he could be completing just over 50% of his passes and failing to convert a first down in the first half of a game.

There's no doubt in my mind that the name of Flacco's game has been inconsistency this season, and the team's two losses through seven weeks of play are the end result.

In week one against Pittsburgh, Flacco threw three touchdowns and put up a QB rating of 117.6 in a convincing 35-7 victory. Two weeks later he set a career-high with 389 passing yards against the St. Louis Rams. Baltimore won that game 37-7.

Aside from those two games, Flacco's performances this season have been erratic at best.

Looking back, there really isn't a single Baltimore victory that you could give solid credit to Flacco for:

vs. PIT (W 35-7)--17 for 29, 224 yards, 3 TD; defense forced 7 TOs

@ TEN (L 23-16)--15 for 32, 197 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT; defense allowed 74 rushing yards

@ STL (W 37-7)--27 for 48, 389 yards, 3 TD; offense ran for 168 yards, defense forced two TOs

vs. NYJ (W 34-17)--10 for 31, 163 yards, 1 INT; defense allowed 38 rush yards, 7 FDs and forced four TOs

vs. HOU (W 29-14)--20 for 33, 305 yards, 1 INT; defense allowed 93 rushing yards, 18 FDs
@ JAC (L 12-7)--21 for 38, 137 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT; 0 FDs in 1st half, 34 rushing yards

Flacco failed to get anything going in the first half against Jacksonville's underachieving defense. Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron failed to utilize the run game correctly, giving Pro Bowl running back Ray Rice just eight carries for 28 yards, making it tough for Flacco to even convert a first half first down.

Baltimore's offensive line has given up just 13 sacks in six games, but pressure has been getting to Flacco quite often this season, forcing him to throw a lot of incompletions. His accuracy has surely been off this season, as he has completed just 52.1% of his 211 pass attempts.

His season rating of 76.2 is good enough for 26th in the league, behind such names as Tarvaris Jackson, Mark Sanchez, Chad Henne and Kevin Kolb.

If Mr. Flacco plans on improving on his 4-3 career postseason record this winter, he will need to step his game up and help out his top-ranked defense. He can start by taking advantage of the turnovers they have forced this season.

Flacco and the Ravens will face Kevin Kolb and the Cardinals today at 1 P.M.

Photo credit
Perry Knotts/NFL

Gonzalez, Rookie Newton Making History in Early Games

It took Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback Cam Newton just six and a half games to match Vince Young's record of rushing touchdowns by a rookie quarterback, which was set during the 2006 regular season. Young's seven rushing touchdowns came over 13 starts (15 total games) in his first of two career Pro Bowl seasons.

Early in the third quarter of play, Newton took a shotgun snap and caught Washington's defense napping with an impressive 16-yard touchdown run for his seventh rushing touchdown in as many games. The TD put Carolina up 16-6 after placekicker Olindo Mare split the uprights on the extra point attempt.

Newton has completed under 60% of his passes for 1,847 yards, 7 TDs and 9 INTs (coming in to Sunday's game), but his biggest threat–just like VY–is his legs. I'm sure defenders would agree in a heartbeat that it's tough to bring down Newton and his 6'5''/248-pound frame.

After starting off his pro career with back-to-back 400-yard performances, there's no doubt that Newton will be the center of attention when it comes time to vote for the Offensive Rookie of the Year at season's end. Let's just hope his individual success translates in to victories for Ron Rivera's Panthers one day soon.

- - - - -

This afternoon there are just seven early games in action right now (1 P.M. ET), but that doesn't necessarily mean there will be less entertainment, or even history being made for that matter.

Atlanta, in the middle of an NFC clash with the 5-1 Detroit Lions at Ford Field, has seen a little history being chased as well. Future Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez–the long-time Kansas City Chief–moved up one more spot on the all-time receptions list.

Sitting at 1,099 heading in to this afternoon's game, Gonzalez jumped from fourth all-time to second all-time on the list, passing Cris Carter (1,101) and Marvin Harrison (1,102). Both of whom are former wideouts who should see Canton in the future–Carter possibly next season, and Harrison once he's eligible.

Up next: Jerry Rice (1,549 all-time), although seeing the 34-year old Gonzalez reach the legendary Jerry Rice on this list seems implausible. Nevertheless, Gonzalez has cemented himself as one of the best tight ends in league history, if he hadn't done so already.

Photo credit: AP Photo/Chuck Burton

Tony Dungy's Crazy Idea may just be the Right Direction for Indianapolis

Scanning NFL.com's front page earlier this morning, I came across a very interesting headline. It read: Dungy's Crazy Idea.

Now, I don't know about you, but any time I see a headline with the two words "crazy idea" in it, I usually like to click on it to see what the buzz is all about. I knew it had to do with the Colts, since it's former head coach Tony Dungy whose Colts won the Super Bowl after the '06 regular season.

And nowadays, any time there's something in the news about the Colts, we all know it has to do with the franchise's foggy quarterback situation.

With Manning still looking to miss at least 75% of the regular season, and the Colts sitting at 0-6 with Curtis Painter's struggles under center continuing, it's clear the Colts will be missing the postseason for the first time in about a decade this season.

Here is coach Dungy's idea: If Indy has a shot at drafting Stanford's junior quarterback in April's draft, they shouldn't hesitate to do so.

Now, here's where the crazy comes in. Dungy went on to state that if they get Luck, and he impresses early on, they can then trade Super Bowl champion and four-time MVP Peyton Manning.

As outrageously insane that sounds, I think it would actually be a way of moving forward for this franchise. Manning means the world to Indianapolis, and he helped them so much, but we all know that this is a business and that quarterbacks don't last forever. This time next season Manning will be 36-years old and if there was ever a good time to switch gears and rebuild, now is the time.

Manning's supporting cast has never really been all too strong, aside from WRs Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne, TE Dallas Clark and RB Edgerrin James. Head coach Jim Caldwell could surely use some help on the defensive side of the ball as well, especially that porous secondary.

Instead of spending it all on Manning, perhaps they could move forward and take a shot on one of the most-coveted quarterbacks in the April 2012 draft...and save some money for the rest of the team.

Obviously the fans will likely be irate if this was to happen in the future–and trust me it would sadden me too if Manning was given the boot–but owner Jim Irsay has to do what's best for the franchise. And if that includes the trading of a legend and the face of the franchise to begin rebuilding and adding youth for the future, then so be it.

At this point, it wouldn't surprise me too much if Manning didn't retire a Colt, although I'm sure everyone would love to see it happen. If Irsay takes a shot on Luck, I think trading Manning to a QB-needy team could work out greatly for Indy considering teams would be willing to pay a great price on such a highly-coveted icon.

Whether he retires a Colt or not, I do think some sort of coaching job could already be lined up for Manning after he hangs his cleats up for good–just look at him standing on the sidelines (^^^), he's looking mighty snazzy in a polo and khakis.

To Dungy: your crazy idea may not sound too crazy after all, Mr. Dungy.

Photo credit

Dungy: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

Manning: Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Quarterback Controversy's Continue to Haunt Teams

Quarterback controversy's are never-ending in the game of football. In fact, numerous teams are still having trouble despite being over a fourth of the way through the season.

Teams such as Cincinnati, Carolina and Tennessee have appeared to resolve its controversy for the time being, even if their records may not show that. But still others, such as Indianapolis, Denver, Miami, Minnesota and Washington have a long ways to go.

*Indianapolis fell to 0-6 after a late comeback fell short against Cincinnati. In Curtis Painter's fourth career start, he made just one critical mistake, a late interception to Leon Hall which killed any chance the Colts had of completing a comeback.

Overall, Painter has faired well considering he hadn't gotten much reps in over the years. His supporting cast struggled against Cincinnati's tough defense as both Pierre Garcon and Dallas Clark committed critical mistakes, turning the ball over and giving Cincinnati a shot at cashing in.

Indy remains the center of a quarterback controversy until: 1) Peyton Manning returns to the field and saves this offense, 2) The Colts offense steps up and helps out the inexperienced Curtis Painter.

*Washington fell to 2-3, losing to Philadelphia 20-13 on Sunday, after head coach Mike Shanahan benched quarterback Rex Grossman in the second half. Grossman through four interceptions on 22 pass attempts.

John Beck took his place, making his first regular season appearance since his days as a Dolphin in 2007. Beck went 8 for 15, 117 yards and a rushing touchdown at the end of the game. For now, Beck has won the starting job over Grossman. But will he find success?

*Coming off a bye week, the Broncos (1-4) will be handing second-year gunslinger Tim Tebow his first start of 2011 after failed attempts with Kyle Orton at the helm. This has become huge news after watching Tebow's three starts last season (Broncos went 1-2 with him as starter).

Tebow continues to have a group of critics, saying how he can't throw the ball efficiently (which I somewhat agree with), but at this point this is Denver's best shot at winning games. In his five starts this season Orton has struggled, throwing seven interceptions and leading Denver to just one victory. Denver is in a panic out west, and giving Tebow a shot early in the season is a smart move, and a risk that must be taken.

*Chad Henne has been lost for the season following shoulder surgery, giving former Carolina Panthers quarterback Matt Moore his shot. Henne had yet to prove he's worthy of the starting slot, throwing 37 interceptions and just 31 touchdowns in his 31 starts, going 13-18 over that span.

I think the season-ending surgery was a blessing in disguise for the Phins, it gave them the chance to try out Moore, who made his 14th career start last night against Rex Ryan's hard-hitting Jets defense. His Dolphin debut was less than impressive, however, as he threw two interceptions and fumbled the ball two additional times (none were lost). Though he truly didn't have much help from his receivers as Brandon Marshall dropped a couple of key passes (including a touchdown), and Brian Hartline even dropped a pass or two.

I expect Moore to come out ready to play next Sunday against the Denver Broncos.

*Julius Peppers and Co. chased Minnesota's veteran Donovan McNabb all over the field on Sunday night, eventually leading to the benching of McNabb despite zero turnovers.

McNabb hasn't produced a whole lot (just four touchdowns), which may have led to his benching for next Sunday's game, but he also hasn't made as many mistakes as you'd expect (two interceptions, two fumbles). I think the real reason McNabb has been benched for rookie Christian Ponder is just the fact that head coach Leslie Frazier wants to try something new and get Ponder some reps with the first-team offense to shake things up for this 1-5 squad.

Personally I think it's rather silly throwing Ponder in there to make his debut against the undefeated and defending champion Green Bay Packers. Sounds like a homicide to me. Why not wait one extra week and give the veteran the nod against Green Bay? Silly.

*Amidst a possible playoff run for the Oakland Raiders, much to my surprise, Jason Campbell–starting quarterback–has been lost for the season with a broken collarbone.

But luckily for Raider Nation, Oakland is currently very close to making a deal with the Cincinnati Bengals for former Pro Bowler Carson Palmer. I think that would make both the Raiders players/coaching staff very happy, as well as the fan-base. And why wouldn't it? I think it would be a great move despite the lack of football activities Palmer has participated in as of late.

Fresh start for Palmer and fresh start for this offense as they attempt to return to the playoffs. Hope the deal works out for both sides. It would certainly allow Cincinnati to move on to the Andy Dalton era without having to worry about Palmer's 2012 status.

Photo credit

Beck: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images

Moore: Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images

Harbaugh vs. Schwartz: Choose your Side

Yesterday the undefeated Detroit Lions hosted the just-as-surprising San Francisco 49ers at Ford Field.

In what was the game of the week–according to my standards, at least–the Niners pulled off the upset after holding off Matt Stafford and the Lions' offense late in the game. Head coach Jim Harbaugh and the Niners came away with a 15-9 victory to improve to 5-1 and retain first place in the West; Detroit suffered its first loss of the 2011 season.

But what happened after the game between the two head coaches, Harbaugh and Detroit's Jim Schwartz, has overshadowed San Fran's accomplishment on the field.

After the final whistle had blown, and the two teams met at midfield for the traditional handshake, Harbaugh could be seen jumping up and down with joy as Schwartz slowly walked up to Harbaugh. As he was jumping up and down excitedly, Harbaugh stopped momentarily to shake his opposition's hand but may have shaken it a little too hard. Boo-hoo.

Amid the excitement, it also appeared that he may have shoved Schwartz out of the way after the handshake, though I really think it was just a pat on the back. This, of course being the NFL with a bunch of millionaires with nothing else to do, ended up being blown way out of proportion. Schwartz had some words for Harbaugh as he walked away, causing Harbaugh to follow him and exchange a few more words–expletives included in both men's vocabulary.

Before you know it, the players were in the middle of the two attempting to break them up. No shoves or punches were thrown, thank goodness, that would have been a site to see. Two middle-aged men going at it on the football field. But there will be fines coming their way this week, nonetheless.

I'd like to think the cause of the scuffle was the fact that Schwartz was unhappy with the way Harbaugh handled himself midfield at game's end, and both men pretty much said the same thing in their post-game press conferences. But an article written by Yahoo's! Chris Chase makes me believe there could be a deeper cause here.

The article pretty much states a case that Harbaugh could have celebrated that way just to get Schwartz back for the words he had for him and the rest of his coaching staff–during the game–after they attempted to challenge a play that was unchallengeable by the coaches...there's a video included with the article I linked above.

Either way, both men were wrong and were equally responsible for this post-game blow-up. But, if I had to choose sides (not that it really matters what I think of the situation) I would have to side with Jim Harbaugh. He was excited about the win, and why shouldn't he be, he just beat an undefeated team on the road. Maybe Schwartz should put some big boy pants on and accept the fact that his team wasn't the better team that day.

It wasn't the most classy way of acting I've ever seen, but maybe Schwartz shouldn't have acted that way during the game and thrown expletives at Harbaugh and his staff? What goes around comes around, Mr. Schwartz.

Is a coaching rivalry a brewing? I doubt either one will forget what happened on October 16, 2011.

Jags' Del Rio on the Hot Seat

Entering his ninth season at the helm of the Jacksonville Jaguars, the 48-year old Jack Del Rio has officially reached Hot Seat Status–if he wasn't there already.

Prior to the Jags' Week 6 matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Del Rio's squad is 1-4 and currently sitting in third place. If it wasn't for the absence of Peyton Manning in Indianapolis, the Jags would likely be sitting at the very bottom of the AFC South after five weeks of play.

Just before the season kicked off, Del Rio and his coaching staff let go of former Pro Bowl quarterback David Garrard, who missed just two games since the 2008 regular season began. That was just one more thing added to the list of why the Del Rio era needs to come to an end down south.

It's one thing if Garrard had been under-producing, but the thing is that Garrard was coming off one of his best seasons, setting career-highs in touchdowns (23) and completion percentage (64.5). The season before that, in 2009, Garrard was named to the Pro Bowl after completing his second consecutive 3,000 yard season.

There's no doubt that the wrong decision was made here. Rather than allow Del Rio and his crew to let go of one of the franchise's few (current) upsides, maybe the front office should have just ridden the players and fans of the head coach.

Don't get me wrong, I always kind of liked Del Rio. He was a great role player during his days, and he certainly brings fire and enthusiasm to this team. But this franchise is in dire need of a change, and I think a new head coach would bring a fresh start to Jacksonville.

If you're going to go with a fresh, young look at quarterback by releasing Garrard and starting rookie quarterback Blaine Gabbert, why not start over with a new head coach and system at the same time?

Del Rio has failed to produce since being introduced as the head coach in 2003, reaching the playoffs just two times (1-2 record) and posting a 66-67 regular season record. During his reign, the Jags offense has ranked in the top 10 in points just twice, and offensive yardage twice. His defenses have been a little better, ranking in the top 10 in points and yardage three times each.

The bottom line here is Jack Del Rio's teams have underperformed, and the sooner Jacksonville cuts ties with him, the better off they will be.

Feel free to voice your opinion on this situation.

Photo credit: Grant Halverson/Getty Images

Week 6 Game Picks

Unfortunately we will have to wait another week to see the Tim Tebow era start in Denver, but for now we have several great match-ups to watch this afternoon and evening, including a showdown between the undefeated Detroit Lions and 4-1 San Francisco 49ers.

Here are my weekly game picks as well as a my record for the season.

Sunday Oct. 16

Panthers over Falcons (UPSET)...Matt Ryan's Falcons have struggled this season so far, and I think this is Cam Newton's chance to shine against his division foe.

Bengals over Colts...Andy Dalton is already a more accomplished NFL quarterback than Indianapolis' Curtis Painter. What a shame.

Steelers over Jaguars...If Pittsburgh can protect Ben Roethlisberger long enough for him to get comfortable in the pocket, he shouldn't have much trouble against Jacksonville's defense.

Bills over Giants...Inconsistency has been the name of the game in New York so far this season, both for the Giants and the Jets.

Lions over Niners...Ndamukong Suh will have Alex Smith's number all game long. Look out, Alex!

Packers over Rams...When I come out with my power rankings later in the week, there's a great chance that Green Bay could be No. 1 on the list.

Redskins over Eagles...I really can't say I know when the Eagles are going to break out of this slump. Hard to say, really.

Browns over Raiders (UPSET)...Oakland has shown signs of brilliance this season, but I still believe that Cleveland has the ability to reach .500 this season.

Saints over Bucs...Tampa Bay has been somewhat of a disappointment thus far in 2011, to me anyways. Yet they are still 3-2 and just one game behind New Orleans.

Ravens over Texans...The loss of Mario Williams on Houston's side is huge, and his absence will be felt against Baltimore's offense.

Patriots over Cowboys...Will Tony Romo ever hush the haters and pull through with a playoff run? Not if they can't win on a regular basis throughout the regular season.

Bears over Vikings...Donovan McNabb's days are clearly numbered in this league.

Monday Oct. 17

Jets over Dolphins...Maybe Mark Sanchez will throw a couple of touchdowns this week, rather than pick6's.

Bye weeks: Cardinals, Broncos, Chiefs, Chargers, Seahawks, Titans

My 2011 picks:

Week 1: 9-7

Week 2: 13-3

Week 3: 10-6

Week 4: 11-5

Week 5: 8-5

Total for season: 51-27

Photo credit

Painter: Marc Serota/Getty Images

Suggs: Larry French/Getty Images