Writers of Pro Football Prospectus 2008

09 Oct 2009

Week 5 Open Discussion Thread

I figure someone has to start the topic. Anyway, is it just me or does this week feature a whole lot of one-sided contests? OAK @ NYG, DAL @ KC, MIN @ STL, TB @ PHI, PIT @ DET, IND @ TEN... "any given Sunday" notwithstanding, it seems like half the outcomes are almost preordained. Am I wrong? Is it an accident of schedule or are that many teams that bad this season?

Posted by: Zheng on 09 Oct 2009

308 replies , Last at 13 Oct 2009, 10:36pm by Zheng

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Shane S. (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:11am

Well if there are 6 or 7 bad teams out there, they can't play each other every week. That is, unless the NFL creates a second division for the really crappy teams to play in...

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Anonymous23452 (not verified) :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 1:02am

The NFC West?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Key19 :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:41am

I think TEN may be in store to pull an upset this week. I'm basing that on no statistical or otherwise evidence though. Just a gut feeling. I also am thinking that DAL/KC may be close or an upset, but that could just be my inner paranoia getting the best of me.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Temo :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 11:52am

Dude, get in FO IRC. I'm tired of being the only Cowboys fan in there.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Bill Barnwell :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:18am

Well, as we mentioned to the Washington Post this week, there's more undefeated or winless teams this year than there have been in a decade.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by perly :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 12:07pm

Late word is that the Redskins will be starting Mike Williams at RG this week, with their two primary "backups" at the position healthy scratches (Chad Rinehart is inactive; Will Montgomery will dress as backup center).

I still don't think much of Jim Zorn as a head coach, but is there anybody else in the league who's been more set up to fail by management?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Jimmy :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 12:32pm

I would argue that Al Davis is at least as bad. Both owners call all the shots (or in Snyder's case just the really big and important ones) and shoot their teams in the foot over and over again.

It is part of the reason that I reckon Norv Turner gets more critiscism than he deserves. He got fired under Snyder when every player on the team knew the coach was going to get canned and hence had no real authority then he coached under Davis with a car crash team that he at least got the offense functioning on. He gets fired anyway and the next year the offense falls apart under Mr Bed and Breakfast as Son of Buddy MkII gets the defense working. Yes his teams under-performed but I blame the ownership / organisational structure which conspired to either undermine or ruin the teams he was coaching on.

Then he gets the ultra talented Chargers to coach just as his HOF running back and TE get dinged for most of the year along with his Pro Bowl pass rusher killing his chances that year. This season he has lost his NT (who is the heart and soul of the defense) and still everyone simply blames Turner. If you look back at the Chargers of three or four years ago the best players are LT and Gates on offense and on defense a front five (in effect) of Phillips, Olshansky, Williams, Castillo and Merriman. LT isn't the player he was, Gates wasn't himself last year (although he does look better this season) and on defense only Philips and Castillo are the players they were three years ago. I am not saying he is a misunderstood genius or anything but he has got to be one of the unluckiest head coaches in the league.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Temo :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 12:49pm

Jerry Jones would like to be included in this discussion.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Jimmy :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:00pm

Yeah you are probably right. It is never good for a football team when the guy in the building on the shortest leash is the head coach and everyone knows it. How can he chew guys out when their job security is much better than his?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:10pm

Just announced in the Min-StL game: "Leonard Little--the all-time sack-master in St. Louis."

That's scary in so many ways.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by topherkris :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:40pm

It'd be scarier of such a title was endorsed by a major brewery.

Furthermore, is it just me or is the Browns' front-seven playing without arms? They're stuffing all of the gaps and lanes, there's literally nowhere to run. Yet somehow Jackson and Lynch are just bouncing around in the pile, making cut after cut and churning out yards.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:47pm

Well, this morning, I get to choose between OAK@NYG or MIN@STL. As you might expect, the favorites are out to big, early leads. The Raiders have gone three and out twice to start the game and JaMarcus Russell looks like a drunk trying to win a teddy bear at the carnival. Meanwhile, Kyle Boller has had the ball slip out of his hand for a fumble and Jared Allen returned it for a touchdown.

And, as I'm typing this the Raiders give up a 55 yard run to Bradshaw on 3rd and 24 to end the first quarter. EDIT: I just saw the replay on this. One of Raider's linebackers (57), hurt his leg/ankle on the play. He probably makes the tackle or slows up Bradshaw if this hadn't happened.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by B :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:52pm

I have the Raiders/Giants and Cowboys/Chiefs. Tough choice, at least there's playoff baseball on.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by topherkris :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:53pm

You clearly don't know how to watch bad football games, let me give you some tips:

1. Surprise your friends with statistics that you've tallied, "Did you know, through 4 quarters Jamarcus Russell missed his receivers by a combined 47 feet?"

2. Face of the Minnesota Vikings defense against the Giants defense is a point for point death match. Wager house hold duties.

3. Drinking games where every incompletion results in a drink, and no one's allowed to go to the washroom until Jamarcus Russell completes two in a row.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:51pm

JaMarcus Russell just gave up a fumble at around his 10 yard line on a blitz to his throwing arm side. Russell was locked on to the left side of the field and never saw the rush. And, the Giants capitalize to go up 28-0. The Raiders need a mercy rule at this point.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:03pm

About 10 minutes after I say the Raiders need a mercy rule, my cable company loses the CBS feed. It's merciful for us if we don't have to watch their ineptitude, right?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:08pm

I guess I pissed off the football gods. My cable company got the CBS feed back.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:54pm

Cool, I popped over the the Rams/Vikings game just in time to see the Prima Viking get picked. First and 10 Rams at the Vikings 25. Even so, I can't say I like the Rams prospects for scoring. They are the Rams.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:55pm

Wow, the Rams show signs of life. First and goal at the 9.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:57pm

And, then they promptly lose 2 yards and go incomplete, incomplete. They manage to get the field goal.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:59pm

Every year, I say the Rams have to get better--they have Steven Jackson. I think I need help breaking my Steven Jackson problem.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:06pm

As a Seahawks fan, I can't tell you how much joy I've derived from the Rams wasting Jackson's prime years.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:58pm

I cheered anyway. Hopefully, this is the start of a Delhomme-like meltdown . . .

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by perly :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 1:58pm

God, Brian Billick's inability to acknowledge the replay he's talking over while getting the call wrong is... refreshing.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:02pm

This isn't really football-related, but I think it's hilarious that there are two commercials in rotation at the same time in 2009 using Blue Oyster Cult songs (though one is some sort of horrendous dance cover version).

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Kevin from Philly :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:19pm

Songs? Wasn't aware that they had more than "Don't Fear the Reaper".

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:24pm

Go, Go Godzilla and Burnin' For You got a lot of air time.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:27pm

Well, "Godzilla" and "Burnin' for You" are the ones being used in commercials.

If you're a normal top-40 pop-type music listener, they've only had 2 hits, "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" and "Burnin' for You" (the latter of which also gained some notoriety when many radio stations banned it after 9/11). However, for a rock fan, all three of these, as well as "Astronomy" and perhaps "Cities on Flame with Rock and Roll" are classics. They also did have 8 straight albums make the top 50 from 1975-1982, with two of those albums ("Agents of Fortune" and "Some Enchanted Evening") going platinum.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:32pm

Most classic rock stations also have an odd affinity for "Goin' Through the Motions," though I can't really explain why. It's not particularly popular with fans, it wasn't even a single let alone a hit, and it's actually a rather wussy pop song (though it has a great solo).

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:07pm

Just saw a cutaway to the Cowboys/Chiefs game: 10-0 Chiefs. Yeah!

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:09pm

Anyone watching the Browns/Bills pillow fight? I see the score is 3-0. That looks scintillating.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by topherkris :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:19pm

It's very windy, very windy. Buffalo's also making a lot of mental mistakes. It's brutal.

Double-M is reverting to his college self, or doing his best braylon edwards impersonation. Seriously, could there be a better Edwards replacement?

Every time the play-by-play guys mention Shaun Rogers, they say "all 350lbs of him," followed by, "...at least 350lbs," followed by "hahhahaha lolz".

I still don't think the Browns have completed a pass.

Terrell Owens is having a good game but appears to be sick as a dog. He's been using those pink towels as snot-rags and occasionally just straight up picking his nose with it.

How much would you pay for that at auction?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:28pm

Ah, didn't know about the wind. Not surprisingly, neither network has broken away to show highlights of the game and I don't watch any of the pregame shows.

As for TO, I'd pay to be let out of any auction involving him.

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Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:16pm

I don't know which was worse: the Browns beating the Bills 6-3, Derek Anderson's impersonation of JaMarcus Russell (ONLY 2 PASSES COMPLETE?! REALLY?!) or Tommy Wiseneau's The Room?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:10pm

The Giants just muffed a punt return. Oakland recovers at the NY 14. Can they score?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:12pm

The Giants are helping. Maybe they feel sorry for the Raiders. NYG called for PI. First and goal at the five for the Raiders.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:17pm

Ooh, high drama. The Giants stand up Fargas, strip the football, and run it back for an apparent touchdown. But, the zebras say forward progress had been stopped. The Raiders score on the next play.

Technically, forward progress had been stopped, but I've certainly seen that kind of play allowed to continue. The Raiders cash in on two lucky breaks and narrow the lead to 28-7.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Whatev (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:19pm

Well, I'm glad the Raiders scored, but I still have to say that probably should've been a fumble.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:21pm

The Giants have gone into a mini meltdown. On the ensuing kickoff, the ball bounced around near the 15 yard line. The Giants managed to cover, but then they got a personal foul, so they're starting inside the 10 yard line and David Carr has come in at QB.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:26pm

The Raiders promptly let the Giants out of their hole, but Bradshaw gets his legs rolled up on a nice run. Bradshaw is being looked at on the sideline. David Carr just threw a beautiful ball to Hicks, but he couldn't get both feet in bounds. Would've been first and goal at about the five. The pass also would've beaten the Raiders best corner who's name I can't spell. Raiders hold and force a punt.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by DEW (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:53pm

Even when he's beaten, Asomugha telekinetically shoves the receiver's feet out of bounds. He's just that good.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:29pm

Russell gives up another fumble on a strip sack. He was almost stripped on the previous play. Giants driving for a half ending TD with 14 seconds to go with first and 10 at the Raiders' 15.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:35pm

And, Kelly (Raiders defensive lineman) just does a combination punch on O'Hara (Giants center), but only gets a personal foul. I'm a little surprised he wasn't ejected. Giants settle for the field goal due to time on the clock and leave 2 seconds for the ensuing kickoff. 31-7 Giants at half time.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Crus :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:30pm

Suggestion to the Bucs: don't let McNabb scramble for 10+yds on 1st down, or at least double cover Jeremy Maclin on the next play, because so far we've had: first drive: scramble 13yds, 51yd pass to Maclin for a TD. Latest drive: scramble 17yds, 40yd pass to Maclin for a TD.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by joe football (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:30pm

Be sure to join a star-studded cast of your favorite FO posters for IRC football chat! Server: bendenweyr.dyndns.org, channel #fo

Brief tutorials for the IRC-shy:

- go to mirc.com and download the client

- type /server bendenweyr.dyndns.org in the status window

- type /join #fo in the status window

or

- go to mibbit.com

- click on the server link and paste bendenweyr.dyndns.org as the address

- enter #fo as the channel, pick a nick, hit go

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Whatev (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:43pm

Wait. Isn't Mike Vrabel a linebacker?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:46pm

And still Vrabel has more TDs than Romo at halftime.

I'm starting to feel sorry for Tony Romo at this point.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:47pm

No, no, no. He plays for the Cowboys. You can't feel sorry for him.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:46pm

Sidney Rice just made an incredible catch against the Rams. I think Rice was held, ran through illegal contact, and then made the catch while being interfered with. Also on the play, Rams defensive lineman injured his left leg on what looks like a cheap shot from one of the Vikings lineman.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:49pm

I'm sorry I don't always put the names in. I don't know the teams and my short term memory tops out at about 5 seconds.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:55pm

Sidney Rice is almost disturbingly reminiscent of Rod Smith to me. I remember when Rod was young, he would make these spectacular, highlight-reel grabs then drop something right on the numbers. Then he would run over, around, and through four guys to get open on one play then be unable to get away from a slow safety on the next.

It's not any kind of a scientific comparison between the two and I haven't seen Rice every game of his career like I did with Smith, but I'm struck by it every time he makes a catch like that.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:52pm

Boller throws the ball right at Jared Allen and almost gets picked. I don't think the Ravens miss Boller. Then, on third and two the Rams keep Jackson out, run, and don't get the first down. This brought out the boo birds.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:54pm

Well, well, well. My local CBS affiliate has taken mercy on me. I'm now being shown the Steelers/Lions game, which is 21-13 Steelers about half way through the third quarter.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:56pm

And, Hanson promptly misses a make-able field goal after a decent Lions' drive.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:58pm

Okay, I should maybe cut Hanson a little slack. It was a 49 yard attempt.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Kevin from Philly :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:22pm

Just got home from the Eagles game. How did Detroit score the last TD? Thought I had that one in the bag when I left the Linc.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:26pm

Sorry, I don't know. CBS cut me over to the Bengals/Ravens game when it was 28-13 Steelers.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Jimmy :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 2:57pm

Awesome play by Ed Reed in the game against the Bengals. The Bengals have trips right and Ocho'y'cinco on his own on the right. The Ravens are lined up to blitz with Reed motioning over from the offensive left to a single high position immediately before the ball was snapped. Palmer proceeds to stare down 85 and Reed jsut follows his eyes and steps in front to pick off the ball and run it in for the score. To be fair to Palmer, Reed was 20 yards out of position and shouldn't really have been there but that is Ed Reed for you.

I guess that is why it is fun watching first ballot HOFers play the game.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Big Johnson (not verified) :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 3:26am

Im taking a spanish class at a community college right now.... its ochenta y cinco. Adios!

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:00pm

Big Ben just threw a 47-yard bomb to Mike Wallace, who got behind everyone. 28-13 Steelers.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:03pm

Boller just overthrew Martin by 5-10 yards. Would've been a TD.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:06pm

Two plays later, Tyrell Johnson for the Vikings just breaks up the pass as the Rams throw for the end zone again. It would've been 6.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:07pm

The Lions just ran a well designed and well executed screen pass to the left side on third and 10 to pick up the first down.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Calig23 :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:09pm

They have had huge gains on three screen passes in this game.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:15pm

I'm not surprised. If you can catch the Steelers in the right blitz, screen passes have the chance to be big plays.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:11pm

The crawl on my game just said that Coughlin has kept Manning out of the game for the second half. David Carr came in for Manning just before half time. I like the move. The Raiders aren't going to beat the Giants. Giving Manning a little rest and keeping him from further injury is the right choice for a blowout game.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:13pm

The Lions have a nice little drive going here. Of course, just as I type this, they have to burn a time out to avoid a delay of game penalty. But, two plays ago, they had a nice 10 yard run on either first or second down to pick up the first down. Sorry I didn't catch the runner's name. The Lions are inside the Steelers' 40.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:18pm

Lions running back Felton broke a number of tackles on 3rd and 7 to pick up a first down. Then, Culpepper fumbles the snap, picks up the ball, runs around like a frightened school girl, throws back across the field and is intercepted by Clark. A 12-play drive down the drain. Culpepper has been in the league long enough to know to just fall on the ball or take the sack in that situation. What a doofus.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:21pm

However, has Culpepper really ever shown any capacity for learning since coming into the NFL?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:25pm

You make a good point. I had forgotten that in my disgust at the singular stupidity shown which killed a nice drive.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:21pm

Of course Culpepper has learned something: when in trouble, look for Randy Moss. It's just too bad Moss is in New England now...

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:23pm

It looks like the Vikings offensive line is every bit as good this week against the Rams as they were last week against the Packers. Just saw a replay were the Prima Viking had nearly an eternity to complete the pass (I think he threw it around 5-6 seconds, but he could have stood back there twice that long.) On the next play, a huge hole for AP and a TD.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:27pm

I'm starting to get dizzy. CBS has decided the Lions/Steelers game is "out-of-hand". When they come back from commercial, I'll be watching the Bengals/Ravens.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:30pm

Ray Rice just made an incredible catch and run for a 49-yard TD for the Ravens. He runs through a group of five Bengals breaking the tackles of two of them. He almost goes down, but gets his hand down in time to save his balance and then out runs the rest of the Bengals to the end zone. What an amazing athletic play.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by ArchnerdUW :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:30pm

Finally in the fourth quarter the Steelers decide to attempt to defend draws and screens.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:32pm

I cut back to the Rams/Vikings came just in time to see Avery catch a TD pass for the Rams. Then, he starts doing this lame dance in the end zone. Hey, Avery, your team sucks and you're down 31-10. Maybe you just run back to the side line.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by ghinterm :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:36pm

The Vikings have put Tavaris Jackson in, and it looks like Adrian Peterson is also done for the day.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:37pm

Ravens bring a blitz on 3rd and 5 and the blitzer is unblocked. A back-pedaling Palmer throws the ball right at Ray Lewis, who gets two hands on the ball, but can't quite make the interception. The Bengals are lucky to not give up another pick 6.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:44pm

At about 5 minutes to go in the game, the intrepid announcing crew of Jim Nantz and Phil Simms take the time to tells us that the Bengals are playing with heavy hearts. Their defensive coordinator went home sometime early last week to find his wife dead. The Bengals have dedicated the game to the defensive coordinator.

Now, I have all the sympathy in the world for the man's loss. But, this comment seems incredibly out of place at this point in the game. Now, I've only seen a little bit of the game because I didn't get the feed until half way through the fourth quarter. Does anyone know if this is an ongoing story line for the game and I'm just now hearing about it? From the way Nantz and Simms were talking, though, it certainly seems like this is the first they brought it up.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Anonymous Coward (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:01pm

The announcers for that game are Gus Johnson and Steve Tasker. They have been talking about that throughout the game, that wasn't the first time.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:02pm

Thanks. I think we posted at the same time.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:01pm

I think I have part of the announcing crew wrong. It's not Jim Nantz doing play-by-play. I think it might be Gus Johnson. But, it sure sounds like Phil Simms doing "analysis".

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:45pm

Ravens miss hitting a long pass for a TD to lock up the game. Flacco overthrew his receiver about 5 yards.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:46pm

And, Gregg Easterbrook is adding another entry to the "Brrk, brrk, back" section of his column as the Ravens punt from around the Bengals 40.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:22pm

You know Easterbrook is writing right now that if the Ravens had just gone for it in the "Maroon Zone", they'd probably have converted and won the game.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by TNT (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:46pm

Derek Anderson: 2 of 15 for 23 yards with five minutes left. Awe inspiring.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:05pm

Wow. I think that's worse than JaMarcus Russel's numbers today. Anderson has some talent. Is the wind really that bad?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:13pm

Well, Derek Anderson is that bad.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:49pm

Bengals have a 4th and 1 near their 35 yard line to keep their hopes alive. And...........Palmer scrambles for the first down. Can the Bengals continue being the Cardiac Kids of the 2009 season?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:53pm

Ray Lewis just lit up Ocho Cinco on an incomplete pass play. Lewis draws, justifiably, a 15-yard penalty. It should be noted that "Hole in the Zone" failed to make the interception for the Ravens on the incomplete pass. :-)

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:56pm

On succeeding plays, a Bengals receiver drops a pass near the goal line, then the center snaps the ball before Palmer is ready. The Bengals recover the fumble, but half to take their last time out. After the time out, the Ravens commit pass interference. Finally, Palmer hits Caldwell on a thin post route for the go ahead TD. 17-14 Bengals with 22 seconds to go.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 3:58pm

The Ravens are going to be bitching about penalties again this week. All the calls I saw I thought were legitimate.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:04pm

Leon Hall just picked off a long Flacco pass to seal the victory for the Bengals. So, the Bengals are on top of the AFC North now, right? The season's young, but I don't think many people foresaw this.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:09pm

Fox has cut over to the Cowboys/Chiefs game. A long Chiefs' reception is under booth review. If it stands (and from the views I've seen, it should), the Chiefs will have the ball on the Cowboys' 37-yard line with 1:25 to go. It's currently 20-13 Cowboys.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:10pm

Cassel to Bowe, complete to the Cowboys' 19-yard line. Newman for the Cowboys was injured on the play. He walked off the field under his own power.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by ghinterm :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:09pm

I didn't watch the game, but something tells me the Cleveland/Buffalo game won't get replayed on the NFL Network anytime soon.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:11pm

I guess the Browns had one more feather in their pillow than did the Bills.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by JoseTortilla :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:10pm

Derek Anderson just. wins. games.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:20pm

Can't argue with that.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:13pm

Chiefs have 4th and 7, ball game on the line. Cassel hits Bowe in the end zone for the apparent TD. It's under booth review and should be confirmed.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:15pm

The TD stands, the PAT is good, and it's 20-20 with right around a minute to go. But, because the late CBS game is starting, we can't watch the rest of the game.

91
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:18pm

OMG, my eyes are bleeding. The Broncos come out in uniforms that look like a well used baby's diaper. They should be embarrassed to have to wear those uniforms.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:25pm

That's why they got rid of them.

I also remember hearing (whether it was true or not) that the league wanted them to wear those uniforms for the NFL 75th anniversary season and they refused, opting instead for a modified version of one of their later uniforms (which I actually liked).

Rumor also has it that they may have first worn the horrible brown and yellow things because the owner picked them up on the cheap from a defunct pro team. There doesn't seem to be evidence of this, just rumor, but it's certainly believable given their ugliness.

I was frightened when I found out they were going to wear those *things* this year.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:32pm

That's a good story. Thanks for sharing.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Kevin from Philly :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:28pm

They either stole that color scheme from a bag of peanut M&Ms, or vice versa.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:21pm

This is going to be a tough game for me. Two of my least favorite teams, one wearing incredibly hideous uniforms. I guess I'll hold my nose and "root" for the Patriots.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by JohnnyTecmo :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:23pm

Are we just one more Dallas defensive meltdown from seeing Jason Garrett take over at Head Coach??? The bye week is coming up, giving them a 2 week transition period...

100
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:28pm

I don't know. That doesn't seem to be Jerra's way of doing things. Of course, he's Jerra, so I guess nothing would surprise me.

97
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:24pm

Yea! Broncos wide right.

99
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:25pm

*sighs* They can't even shutout the Chiefs. It's going to be a long season for the Dallas Cowboys...

106
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:37pm

Damn, the Chefs snatch defeat from the jaws of victory again. That was some bad tackling.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:31pm

The Patriots run a nice screen play off of some fake trickeration action in the back field. This sets up a Brady to Welker TD pass, which is apparently the first TD pass given up by the Broncos this year.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:34pm

In the first 9 minutes the Falcons have successfully brought the 49ers back to Earth.

104
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:34pm

Broncos return man McKinley runs the ball out from 8 yards deep in the end zone. He's lucky to get to the 18-yard line. Does he think he's Percy Harvin or Devon Hester?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:36pm

Is there anyone on this board watching my mighty SeaChickens play? Is Matt back? How does he look?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:39pm

Matt is back. So far he has completed twice as many passes as Derek Anderson did in one game.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:46pm

You probably didn't mean it this way, but talk about damning with faint praise.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:58pm

While I admit I have no idea what that phrase means (South Jersey education has failed me again!), I meant no disrespect against Hasselbeck. However how Derek Anderson looked worse than JaMarcus Russell completely baffles me. And they benched Brady Quinn for this guy...

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:07pm

Damning with faint praise means to find a low standard and then say someone is better than that, with the implication being there was no other standard the person could have beaten. I figured you weren't dissing on Matt but were just tweaking Anderson some more.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:38pm

Fumble Broncos, recovered by the Patriots. Yea!

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:44pm

And, the Cretin further demonstrates his idiocy. No, Josh Daniels does not have to challenge the call. It's clear on the replay that it's a fumble. You don't throw away a challenge and a time-out. And, Nantz isn't satisfied with the Cretin's idiocy. He says the challenge is justified to give the Broncos' defense a little more rest. Hey, Genius, it's the first quarter. They haven't had time to get tired.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:49pm

Patriots miss on what would have been a TD pass and settle for the field goal.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:04pm

Yep. A clear indication that Brady is not back to his usually accurate self. Couple more weeks.

PS: Notice how the announcers like to keep to a story line? When a linebacker grabs a Bronco on 3rd and short, causing an incomplete, the announcers blame the QB/WR, as it fits the story line of Orton as inaccurate, as opposed to explaining that it was an uncalled hold (could see the shirt being tugged on the cut all the way until the missed catch). Then, when Welker catches the TD, they accurately talk about Welker's ability to get open on the exact same type of play, as Welker as shifty guy fits their story line.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:09pm

Yeah, I alluded to that when I ragged them on their commentary about the challenge.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Still Alive (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:52pm

Rams had three turnovers in the redzone ouch...

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:52pm

Watching the crawl, I see Carolina came back to beat Washington. Anyone have an over/under on the number of games Jim Zorn has left as a head coach?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:55pm

I give it either a loss to Kansas City or Oakland. If JaMarcus Russell plays better than Jason Campbell in that game, then Campbell will have to fight for a starting spot next year.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:01pm

I'll probably get excoriated by Chris for saying this, but Campbell is a better QB than Russell and the Redskins' problems don't even begin to start with the QB position. Having said that, do you know who Campbell's backups are?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:09pm

Campbell's backups are Todd Collins and Colt Brennan, not exactly an intimidating group, but they're better than Russell. I agree on that QB is the least of their worries, but when you're owner tries to go after two highly-sought after QBs in the offseason, I'd be worried about my job security as well. Plus, Campbell is in the last year of his contract (I think) and his play so far hasn't had the masses asking to keep him

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:14pm

That's a good point. I think it more than likely Campbell will find himself a backup QB somewhere next year.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Sifter :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:10pm

God, if Chris couldn't agree that Campbell is better than JaMarcus, then the man has a real problem...

I thought Todd Collins was still in Washington. Colt Brennan is there too, but I think he got injured this year.

Just looked at the Gamebook and yep Collins is the backup. Randel El is probably the emergency.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:16pm

I don't think I want to comment on whether or not Chris needs help, but he certainly has been, how shall I say this, focused in communicating his dislike of Jason Campbell.

115
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 4:57pm

I hate to admit this, but I'm a little disappointed that the Browns/Bills game didn't go to overtime. I'm not sure what this says about me. Probably nothing good.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:07pm

Hate to quote myself from the DVOA thread, but even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while:

"Agreed. Put me down on the list of "not buying it yet." I think the Pats will expose Denver this weekend."

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Kibbles :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 9:55pm

Is the reason why you hate to quote yourself because you were wrong?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:27pm

Well, come on now, Kibbles. I wrote that when NE was running up and down on them. As a Colt fan, I am not unhappy.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Kibbles :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 12:27am

Just pointing out that blind squirrels might want to make sure that it's really a nut before biting in and chipping their teeth on a rock, instead.

124
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:12pm

Whoa--The Who is on in the stadium. Awesome.

125
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:12pm

Does anyone else besides me think that McDaniels has totally wasted his two challenges today? Was that three yards really that important?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:15pm

I didn't realize that if you get the challenge correct that you still "lose" the challenge. That's an absurd rule -- so if the refs screw up, and you catch them, you lose?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:18pm

Though you do get a third challenge if you succeed in both.

131
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:19pm

There is one exception. If you successfully challenge for your first two challenges, then you get a third challenge. But, basically challenges are like missiles: you shoot 'em and they're gone.

I agree the NFL challenge system is absurd. I much prefer the college system.

133
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:23pm

Then, yes, that second challenge was dumb. Would have helped if the refs got the call right, but you can't waste it then.

136
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:23pm

What is the college system?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Kibbles :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:04pm

In the college, there's an official in the booth watching replays of absolutely every play. If a play call was clearly correct, nothing happens. If the replay official in the booth sees a replay and thinks the call might have been wrong, he calls down to the field to stop play so he can review it a couple more times and make a ruling. If a coach wants to give the guy in the booth more time to review, he can always just call a timeout- all reviews are automatic, so the booth guy will keep looking at the play through the timeout.

278
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Jerry :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 4:31am

The NFL's original replay system used calls from the booth, but there were too many delays for "unimportant" plays. (Should it be 4th and 3 or 4th and 5?) Coach's challenges ensure that the replay matters.

129
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:17pm

I do.

132
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:22pm

Ooh, a roughing the passer call and it's not against the Patriots. Are the football gods exacting some payback?

135
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:23pm

YYYAHHHOOOOOOOO!

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:25pm

Dude, that was a perfectly legal hit. That's just hard-nosed football when you hit a QB (well, one without a Pro Bowl appearance or SB win).

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:28pm

Oops, that should have said "and it's against the Patriots".

156
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:58pm

Almost had me going there...

134
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:23pm

That's a heads-up play by Marshall to knock that tipped pass down. Otherwise, it might have been a NE pick six.

137
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:25pm

Well, the Broncos have come to life and have a nice drive going. Did the Patriots change up their defense or have the Broncos just started executing?

140
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:27pm

Pats players just heard about the Sawx blowing a 2-run lead in the 9th and getting knocked out. They'll get it together after a moment of silence.

141
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:27pm

Okay, more seriously. I didn't see a change in defense, but the Broncos got much better pass protection.

143
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:28pm

So now if only the Yankees could follow Yankees Mk II out . . .

144
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:30pm

Thanks for the baseball update. I'm surprised that both the Dodgers and the Angels swept. I'm happy for the Dodgers' sweep, not so much for the Angels.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:26pm

What a great throw and catch by Orton and Marshall for the TD. 10-7 Patriots.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:36pm

So, the Cretin just marveled at the Patriots offense having an outlet receiver 15-yards down the field. Hmmm, maybe the Patriots have a good offense and block well. Just a thought.

146
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:38pm

That was a nice, four minute drive by the Patriots. Brady to Watson, TD, to make the score 17-7 Patriots with 5 seconds to go in the half.

147
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:40pm

Well, does Orton have the arm for a 60-yard hail mary attempt?

148
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:41pm

Yes, yes he does, but Randy Moss, playing DB, makes the interception. Half time.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:47pm

I have to admit I was surprised that he could throw that far.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:51pm

Me, too.

150
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:47pm

Cool. Seattle's up 20-0 over Jacksonville. Matt and TJ hooked up for a TD.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:50pm

I asked earlier what the over/under was on the number of games Jim Zorn has left as head coach. I just saw the "highlight" of the Browns/Bills game and saw that the Browns got their go ahead field goal after Buffalo muffed a punt return. Do we need an over/under for Dick Jauron?

152
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:50pm

Now Moss has the potential to become the 4th player ever to catch a TD pass and make an interception in the same game. The others are Jim Houston for Cleveland in 1966, Roy Green for St. Louis in 1981, and (ironically) Brian Dawkins for Philadelphia in 2002.

154
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:54pm

I'd bet Belichick knows this and tries to make an opportunity to get Moss a TD catch.

155
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 5:57pm

Atlanta is crushing SF 35-10. Can anyone comment?

158
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:03pm

Curse of 370 be damned, Mike Smith is hell bent on running Michael Turner until his wheels fall off.

161
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:05pm

Has the Atlanta offense scored all the points or has their defense been feasting a little on the inept SF offense?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by CandlestickPark :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:03pm

Niner defense has been bad, lots of missed tackles. SF also fumbled a kickoff return which turned into a TD.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:08pm

Looking at Roddy White's stats so far: 6 catches for 185 yards and 2 touchdowns. Either the Niner's secondary is horrible, or Nate Clements cannot cover elite wide receivers.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:09pm

Actually, I caused it. I benched White in one of my fantasy leagues. I have that power.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:11pm

LMAO

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:13pm

LOL

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by CandlestickPark :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:10pm

90 of those were on a touchdown where Clements missed a tackle.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:09pm

I guess every unit is entitled to a bad day. The SF defense had been the strength of the team so far this year.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Whatev (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:31pm

SF's been channeling the Raiders today...

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Just Another Falcons Fan (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:57pm

Niners have no offense; only touchdown was set up by short pass combined with receiver breaking the tackle of Brent Grimes.

Ball has bounced Atlanta's way a bit as well; the SF fumble on the kickoff return was caused by the ground, but Singletary couldn't challenge because he had used all his timeouts. Dre Bly also picked off a pass but showboated on the return and wound up stripped from behind by Roddy White, with the Falcons recovering.

157
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:00pm

I've never seen that before. It looks like the engineer at my CBS affiliate pushed the wrong button. The weekly EAS test started playing and then cut out about half way through. Fun.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:03pm

Just saw the HOU/ARI score: 21-0 Arizona. Anyone watching that game and have comments?

185
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Kevin from Philly :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:37pm

Right now it's 21-14. Houston's D looks like they're knocking Warner around a bit.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:56pm

CBS just showed that the Texans have come all the way back to make it 21-21.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:07pm

OMG, it's the Bengals game all over again. The Patriots tip an Orton pass twice, but Gaffney ends up making the catch. At least this one didn't go for a TD.

164
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:09pm

I'm a Denver fan, and this is the luckiest team I've ever seen. They are blowing away the early-season Jets from last year for pure luck.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Human Spider :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:13pm

Next year, every coach in the league will be stressing the importance of tip drills.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:11pm

Great defensive stand by the Patriots to stop the Broncos on 3rd and short in the red zone. Broncos settle for the field goal. 17-10 Patriots.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by MilkmanDanimal :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:17pm

Drew Brees is on bye, so I started Derek Anderson.

There are several obvious jokes here, but I'm not sure my brain is functioning well enough to be able to actually think of them.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:20pm

Ouch. That's too painful to joke about.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:21pm

Look at the bright side. Derek is almost certain to play better than JaMarcus next week. Feel better?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:19pm

Nice 36-yard pass and catch between Brady and Moss, although I think Moss didn't need to fake the hook and lateral to Welker.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:33pm

The Patriots get a running into the kicker call. It was the correct call, although I could have done without the soccer flop the punter performed.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:39pm

Then, they show McDaniels screaming at the what must have been the special team's coach. I've never understood this. The coach didn't run into the punter. Does he think so little of the coach that he doesn't think the coach will address this in practice? Does he think the coach doesn't address this in practice? If so, doesn't that mean McDaniels is just showing his "badness" as a head coach? After all, he hired the guy so he obviously thought the coach could do the job. At some point, don't you have to learn to control you emotions instead of letting them control you?

187
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:41pm

I believe this is the thought process: Some guy just f*ed up and he's too far to yell at him. Who's next up the line? His position coach--he's special teams so yell at special teams coach. Now I have proven I am the Big Man. I am In Charge. Okay, now we may continue.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:42pm

Wow, and then on the next Patriot's punt, the Broncos are offsides giving the Patriots a first down. At least McDaniels maintained his composure this time.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by funbob (not verified) :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 4:25am

You don't think maybe you're reading a bit much into it? Ok ok, you don't think much of McDaniels. You've made that abundantly clear. You don't *really* think him yelling about a bad play in an emotionally-charged game is stronger evidence of his quality as a coach than a 5-0 start with a team that was supposed to be a laughingstock? Hindsight's 20/20 and all that, but even at the time you posted this his team was playing the Pats close. You're obviously going out of your way to interpret everything he does in the worst light possible, which is your right. But it's terrible reading.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 2:22pm

I think I've made it clear that I disliked how McDaniels handled the challenges, although half of that was calling out the announcers for defending what I thought was a bad decision. And, I think I made it clear I didn't like his emotional outburst on the running into the punter call. And the core of that post was the issue of controlling your emotions versus letting them control you. So, in those two instances, I thought he was a bad coach. But, it's a stretch to take two things I happened to comment on, which were negative, and conclude that I dislike McDaniels or think he's a bad coach overall. I think on this site they colloquially call the "Small Sample Size Theater". Nothing else McDaniels did in the game jumped out at me as being worthy of comment.

I don't quite know what to think of McDaniels. During the off season, I thought he was going to be like most of the rest of Belichick's "disciples" and either be mediocre or fail. Now, he's got the Broncos off to a 5-0 start. There's a lot of conventional wisdom pressure right now to anoint him as the next genius, especially since the off season conventional wisdom thought he was going to crash and burn and take the Broncos with him. But, even though the Broncos are 5-0 and look good right now, we're still in "Small Sample Size Theater" mode. I will give McDaniels credit for hiring Mike Nolan, who seems to have single-handedly turned the Broncos defense around. The Broncos defensive play, I think, is largely the reason for their early success. That, and with the exception of the Patriots and perhaps the Bengals, an early season diet of cupcake opponents.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:45pm

Patriots left tackle, Matt Light, has been helped to the locker room with a left (I think) leg injury. I don't think he will be back today. I don't know who the backup is or how good he is.

190
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:48pm

Sebastian Vollmer is his name. He's a rookie, drafted in the second round.

191
Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:50pm

The circus must be in Denver. Champ Bailey is covering Wes Welker. They both go up for the ball and it's tipped. The ball squirts through Bailey's hands for a near interception and then Welker almost catches it out of Bailey's hands. After the exciting incompletion, the Patriots punt and pin the Broncos on their 2-yard line.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:53pm

The AFC West is benefiting from "forward progress stopped" calls today. Oakland was spared a fumble return for a TD and now the Broncos get saved by the call.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by DEW (not verified) :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 12:28am

Though the one in the Chiefs/Cowboys game went the other way, with a Cowboy fumble taken away by non-reviewable "forward progress stopped." Maybe the NFL sent out a memo this week?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by zzyzx :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:57pm

So what the heck is up with the Seahawks. Three losses are sandwiched between a 28-0 win and now a 41-0 lead late in the 4th. Sure Hasselbeck makes a difference but this defense isn't close to the same one that had been playing.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:08pm

I wish I had an answer. I've only seen the 49ers and Colts games. I think having Mebrane back has a lot to do with it.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:57pm

Frank Tripucka just got mentioned during a game. I never thought I would hear that. Is Goose Gonsoulin up next?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Anonymous33 (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 6:59pm

Denver gets a horsecrap "taunting" call in the red zone, then ties the game.

See that, Baltimore? What goes around comes around.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by sldfkjsfls (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:03pm

and a horsecrap "forward progress" call before that.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:00pm

That was very strange. Patriots DB Meriweather got flagged for taunting, but the replay showed the flag was thrown before Meriweather did anything that could be construed as taunting. Maybe he said something. I could have understood him getting flagged for unnecessary roughness since he hit the receiver well after the ball had gone by.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:54pm

Announcers said that the flag you could see on the replay was only one of two. That one was an incorrect PI call, as the ball had been tipped. The other flag, coming from the inside ref, was the taunting call.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:58pm

Thanks for the clarification. I missed the explanation. I must have been typing. Either that or I'm getting better a filtering out the voices of Nantz and the Cretin.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:02pm

And, with the help of the "taunting" call, the Broncos complete a 98-yard TD drive to tie the game at 17.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:04pm

Alright Seahawks! They crushed the Jaguars 41-0. Can anyone provide a few highlights?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:46pm

Are you kidding me? The Seahawks defense held MJD to 34 yards rushing? There must be a legion of fantasy players standing on ledges right now.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by TLivingston :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:12pm

Was there any research done on DVOA for teams coming off a bye week as opposed to teams coming off the regular week? Considering how the 49ers (who were decent, but not a "great" team) got decimated today, I'm wondering exactly how big a difference there is for a team given that much time to prepare.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:13pm

Both teams have made defensive stops since the Broncos tied the game. With two minutes to go, can the Patriots get within field goal range to give Gradkowski the opportunity to redeem his missed field goal from earlier in the game? Looks like we're in for an exciting finish.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:16pm

And, the answer is "No". The Patriots dodge one bullet and recover a fumble, but then the Broncos get a strip sack of Brady and recover that fumble.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:23pm

The Broncos have a madcap attempt to drive down the field, but the game goes to overtime. Denver wins the toss and will receive.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Moridin :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:17pm

wow, that's quite a turnaround. Brady fumbles after a fumble recovered.
Bronco's try to give it back, but manage to keep it.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by sldfkjsfls (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:20pm

In before shitstorm about #24 going after Orton's legs...

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:56pm

I was wondering if anyone was going to remark about that. Clearly he was blocked causing him to fall down. The roll into Orton was all his choice. No call. Refer back to rule above: that's just good, hard-nosed football hitting a QB (who doesn't have a Pro Bowl appearance or a SB win on his resume)!

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:27pm

New England is going to need to find the pass rush they had at the beginning of the game if they're going to touch the ball in overtime.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:31pm

Every time the announcers say "Wild horses offense" I hear Mick Jagger in my head . . . and I really hate that song. I say we need a better name for the formation, one not associated with an awful song.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:36pm

Yeah, that's not the best Stones song. Of course, I don't like the Broncos, so I suggest "Wild Donkeys" or "Wild Asses".

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:33pm

I don't understand why the Broncos are passing when they are already in field goal range.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:35pm

I don't think they have a lot of faith in Prater.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Moridin :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:35pm

Odd playcalling for Denver the last few plays.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Theo :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 3:51am

Passing deep while you can also just kick the game winning FG.
I found that a strange strategy too.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Moridin :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:36pm

And Denver wins on the FG in OT. Interesting game.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:36pm

The March of the Luckiest Team Ever continues!

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by sldfkjsfls (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:40pm

I don't think it's luck so much as playing overrated teams.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by TimK :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:41pm

I think it was Gary Player, the golfer, who said "the more I practice the luckier I get".

Not arguing that Denver haven't been lucky, but they kept their tougher games close enough for luck to matter, and put their weak opponents away far enough to stop bad luck from affecting them. That's really all they can do.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:48pm

And I don't mean to say that they would be sitting at 0-5 without luck or anything. They're probably better than I thought before the season, but they have gotten seemingly every bounce, every call, and every tip their way so far. And I'm a Broncos fan--I'll take lucky wins if we can get them.

By the way, I like the bouncing around McDaniels did after the game--it was rather fun to see a coach just admit he was glad they won a "special" game like that.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by TimK :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:00pm

Yeah, I am Broncos fan too.

They probably should be something like 4-1 (3-2 I reckon and they would have been slightly unlucky).

Mostly the way they play seems much better than the last few years, seem to keep heads in game and keeping plugging away. Seem to be making much better half-time adjustments than for years, and much less crazy gambling plays. I don't see this team losing many games they should win, and at the moment they are winning all the 50/50 games as well...

Sooner or later that will stop, but I think the way they've adjusted in games, they can likely just adjust between weeks and not fall apart. The defense especially doesn't seem to be smoke&mirrors unit that had a fast start a few years ago.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Purds :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:02pm

When I was watching, and Denver was making some stupid plays (running into the kicker, being offsides on another punt attempt when they hadn't come close to blocking a punt today, and so what is the rush?), I was wondering if there is any way to measure "dumb plays." I am wondering if the best teams, like NE has been traditionally, cause more seemingly stupid plays by opponents because those opponents feel they need to do something special in order to beat the "great" team.

Of course, some plays are just brilliant moves by the "great" team, such as a hard count to get the offsides, or a holding penalty by a LT on a great opposing DE. But, I am wondering about just dumb plays, like 12 men in the huddle, or running into a kicker when you have no real chance to block the kick, or late hits to try to force a fumble, etc.

Anecdotally, I would think the best teams cause more stupidity in opponents, but perhaps we just hear that attributed to the situation by announcers, who say nothing when it happens against bad teams.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jebmak :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 10:38am

I believe that FO tested to see if penalties correlated with wins/losses, and the conclusion was that they didn't. There was one exception that correlates with losses, delay of game.

So that is kind of a dumb play measurement.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Pat (filler) (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:21pm

And every lucky break, too. Light getting injured during that game probably won the game for the Broncos.

The other question for the Broncos is how they're going to hold up over the season, of course. It's easy to come out high-energy and play above yourself when it's early in the season and you're fresh.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Jimmy :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 9:24am

I think a big part of people's misreading of the Broncos comes down to Bailey's health. The Broncos defense last year was very bad but only reached truly abysmal levels once Bailey was injured. At that point it became clear that they couldn't cover anyone and weren't big enough to stop the run either. Bailey is playing lights out this year and some of the other guys brought in to revitalise the D are in retrospect decent signings. If I had put more thought into it earlier in the year I might have spotted it but I have a minor irrational hatred of McDaniels so I didn't. Fields, Andre (a or e?) Davis, Dawkins etc., they might not be great players but they are probably an improvement over what they had before. I don't think anyone thought they were going to get as much out of Dulmervil as they have done (although most of his sacks are coming off double moves which is kind of a coverage sack).

I did always think that Orton could execute McDaniels' playbook excellently as it doesn't ask him to do anything he doesn't do pretty well but I have seen a lot more of him than most. I still think the team goes as far as Bailey's health can carry them.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:40pm

Ball game. Denver takes the kick, drives into field goal range, and kicks the game winner.

I think for the remaining Broncos games, there needs to be the sound of Calliope music playing in the background.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:43pm

The night cap is an AFC South divisional match up. I'm putting the over/under on the number of points the Colts score in the game at 40. The Colts offense has been scary good all year and the Titans defense has been offensive.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Pat (filler) (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:44pm

OK, Belichick needs to do something about Springs. Denver targetted him on every single pass play in overtime (or nearly every). Whoever Springs was covering, that's who Orton went to - Royal, Marshall, whoever. And he was usually open by at least a step.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:49pm

I agree Springs looked awful, which is sort of sad since he's been a very good cornerback for a long time.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by sldfkjsfls (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:53pm

There was a stretch earlier where Bodden was getting the same treatment.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Pat (filler) (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:58pm

Yeah, I saw that too, but it seemed more like "wow, Bodden's been in on the play a bunch" for a stretch. It didn't seem like they were actually targeting Bodden, it's just the way the play went. Like, the pocket would start collapsing, and Orton would hit the hot route, and it'd be Bodden.

It was really, really obvious they were targeting Springs late in the game. He was getting targeted earlier, too, but by overtime you could figure out where the play was going pre-snap.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 7:52pm

Moss ends up joining a less-exclusive club of 43 players with at least one interception and at least one reception in a game. http://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/tiny/qkrmr

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by TimK :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:05pm

Tony Scheffler did it a earlier this year, and with Brian Dawkins & Champ Bailey on the list too that must be the most players on that list playing in the same game for a decade or two...

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by The Guy You Don't Want to Hear (not verified) :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:15pm

Especially because I did misspeak--it's 43 instances of that happening--some players have done it more than once (of course Deion Sanders did it 9 times by himself). There are actually 31 players.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by ar4t :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:04pm

Cedric Benson is now starting on any fantasy team in any situation.
I can definitely believe the world will end in 2012

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:16pm

I've been watching highlights on the NFL network, waiting to see my Seahawks. So, the first thing they show is Owen Schmitt, a Seahawks fullback, smacking his helmet into his forehead as he runs onto the field during introductions. The next shot is a close-up of Schmitt with blood streaming down his face from the gash he opened up in his forehead. Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you the 2009 Seattle Seahawks.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:23pm

I really like Faith Hill's outfit this year.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:35pm

Indy starts out on offense. I predict a 3-play, 1:10 minute TD drive.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:41pm

There will be no more predictions from me. At least they didn't go 3 and out.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:39pm

Nasty collision between Griffith and Stevens for the Titans as they tried to make the tackle on the kickoff. It's good to see them both walk off the field.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 9:12pm

Stevens is out with a concussion.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:20pm

Michaels just announced that Stevens has been taken to a local hospital as a precautionary measure.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:46pm

Deleted double post. Sorry.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:50pm

Wow, Indy's #47 decided not to get lit up and stopped on the pass. I wonder if Manning will throw to him again.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 8:53pm

Early gamble for the Colts pays dividends as they get the TD on 4th and 1 from inside the 5-yard line. Gregg Easterbrook will be contrasting this play with the Ravens failure to go for it on 4th down at the end of their game.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Moridin :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 9:00pm

Ah, colts ST...

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 9:18pm

No kidding. Almost gave it up again on the kickoff return.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Moridin :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 9:03pm

Uhm, shouldn't the NFL make a distinction between a light to decent push in the back, vs an actual real block in the back? That was hardly worth a penalty.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 9:09pm

No, no, no. C'mon Ugoh, block your man.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 9:16pm

I'm beginning to wonder: Is Ugoh short for "You go tackle my quarter back"?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 9:36pm

Now, that's more like it. 14-6 Colts.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by zzyzx :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 9:57pm

Are these refs getting paid by the flag? They sure have been on camera a lot.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:06pm

Good question, though I think the two roughing calls against the Titans were legit given the current rules. I think once Fisher sees the tape, he'll be unhappy again. On the play with the second roughing call, Ugoh was clearly holding, but it went uncalled.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:11pm

Let me ask you a different question. I know you're a Seahawks fan. Did you see the game? If so, can you tell me what stood out to you. From what little I've been able to see, the Seahawks were incredibly dominant. In fact, surprisingly so, to me.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:02pm

I like it. The Colts will happily let the Titans score FGs while they score TDs. Nice 2 minute drill by Manning to make it 21-9 Colts.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by t.d. :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:18pm

It's amazing- you put this thread where people can find it, and it still gets lots of comments.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Sifter :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 1:48am

Steady on..take out jayinalaska's posts and they'd be only about 50 comments :D

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Moridin :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:24pm

So, the game's only half over. Refs being human and all, do you really want to be screaming at a ref about the job he's doing, professional or not?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:27pm

Yeah, that didn't sound like a particularly bright move to me either. Do you think he'll be fined?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:33pm

What great foot work. TD Colts.

On the previous play, Collinsworth lauds Wayne's blocking talent as the defender (#30) completely sheds Wayne's block and makes the tackle to prevent the TD. Now, I'm not knocking Wayne's blocking ability but rather Collinsworth using a play where Wayne got beat to demonstrate how good Wayne is.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:42pm

Gregg Easterbrook is ecstatic. The Titans go for it on 4th and 5 in the "Maroon Zone".

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:47pm

Hey, isn't that a penalty or something? The Colts aren't allowed to play good special teams.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 10:54pm

And, even though they're at their 38-yard line with a minute to go in the third quarter, as the Titans punt, Gregg Easterbrook writes "Game over" in his note book.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 11:13pm

Vince Young is in the house.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Sun, 10/11/2009 - 11:17pm

I've been popping over to the PHI/COL baseball game during commercials. I don't think I would want to be playing baseball in Denver tonight. They just said it's 31 degrees.

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Some Interesting facts about 2 win or fewer teams
by jimm (not verified) :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 12:43am

1) there are 17 teams with 2 or fewer wins....none of those 17 teams have beaten any team with 3 or more wins.

2) There are some seriously weak teams this year. 10 teams with 1 win or less:
Tenn, StL, KC, TB, Buff, Det, Oak, Clev, Car, Mia

The funny thing about those bottom ten. They have 6 wins total (6-42). Two of those wins came against Washington and 4 when they played each other.

Oh by the way - the plus/minus of these bottom 11

-540 pts...

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Re: Some Interesting facts about 2 win or fewer teams
by Moridin :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 1:40am

That... is exceptionally terrible. I wonder what dvoa records the nfl will manage to set this year.

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Re: Some Interesting facts about 2 win or fewer teams
by Mr Shush :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 6:22am

Subjectively, I'm not sure that the Cowboys aren't about as bad as at least some of those winless or one win teams, winning record or no. The Redskins are bloody awful too. Tennessee I'm slightly mystified by. They played tough against the Steelers (who I guess we still think are pretty good), Texans (who are certainly not great, but by no means awful either) and Jets (who I think may be very good indeed), but now seem to have mailed it in two weeks in a row. Have they just been demoralised by their disappointing start and given up? Thinking too of last season's Cardinals, is it possible that when a team can't be bothered for whatever reason, it shows up most prominently in their pass defense?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Theo :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 8:17am

Was Anderson's "performance" of record setting sucktitude for a winning QB?

A quick google found this:
Anderson's 11.8 completion percentage is the second-worst since the NFL-AFL merger for a winning quarterback with at least 15 pass attempts.

In 1970, Browns quarterback Don Gault was 1 of 16 (6.3 percent) in a victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. He also threw 2 interceptions.

In 1974, Steelers quarterback Terry Hanratty was 2 of 15 (13.3 percent) against the Browns.

Bills legend Jim Kelly has the fourth-lowest completion percentage in a win. He went 4 of 21 (19 percent) to beat the Carolina Panthers in 1995.

In 1998 Ryan Leaf went 1 of 15 in a lose against the Chiefs, for 4 yards and 2 picks. (per wiki)

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Jimmy :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 9:11am

At 280+ posts I guess the Gameday thread lives again.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by topherkris :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 1:08pm

...if it's living, it's definitely residing in Alaska.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Jimmy :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 1:13pm

Yeah there is that but at least he is keen.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 2:29pm

I've lurked on the site for years. In past seasons, after the Sunday night game, I'd come to the site to see what the poster's here thought of the day's games. It was nice way to wind down from watching football all day. Then, the website changed this off season and no one was really posting in the game threads. So, I decided to play this weekend.

Maybe I played too much. Maybe you all think I'm a blithering idiot. Doesn't matter. For at least one week, I decided to take the Open Discussion Thread on my fingers and see how far I could carry it. I don't know if I could do it again, though. I think I'm going to have to see a doctor about carpal tunnel syndrome.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by tuluse :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 2:50pm

I don't think any one thinks you're an idiot, it's just a little funny how large a percentage of the posts you made.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jebmak :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 4:09pm

You made an interesting lunch read for me. And let's face it, that is what counts.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 8:44pm

So, no one is going to take pity on my poor fingers? Do I have to carry the thread tonight, too?

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 8:52pm

I don't think I've seen Miami wear the orange uniforms before. My first thought was they were some kind of throw backs, but the Jets aren't wearing throw backs. If Wikipedia can be believed, these are an alternate uniform for this year, and it was an alternate uniform in 2003-2004. I like them.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 8:56pm

That was quite the nice drive for Miami to open the game. The pass from the "Wild Cat" formation was nifty.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by tuluse :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 9:06pm

I'm surprised how bad the Jets run D looked.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 9:02pm

Wow, the Jets punter runs and gains 26 yards for a first down. It looks like he ran on his own. Wow!

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 9:10pm

And, in a sight that has Cleveland Browns fans across the country throwing up in their beers, Braylon Edwards actually holds onto a pass and completes the Jets answering TD drive. The drive was aided by a quasi-controversial defensive PI call on the Dolphins. I thought an argument could be made the ball was uncatchable.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Shane S. (not verified) :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 9:14pm

felt like i was watching tecmo super bowl on that screen...

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 9:34pm

Jon Gruden just provided me with a couple of interesting insights. Leon Washington had a 9-yard run. Gruden went back and analyzed the replay and highlighted how the motion of the wide receiver froze Joey Porter, who had outside contain. Because Porter had to evaluate the receiver for a split second, it opened up a huge hole. After all the years I've watched football, you'd think I might have noticed something like that.

Then, a couple of minutes later, he starts extolling the coaching and teaching abilities of Bill Callahan, who's now the Jets Offensive Coordinator. Gruden called him the best line coach he had ever worked with. I found that interesting because the last I knew of Callahan, he was setting the Nebraska Cornhusker program back 10 years. I guess this is example 6,574 of how success as a position coach/coordinator does not guarantee success as a head coach.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Dennis :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 11:37pm

Plus there's a big difference between coaching in college and the pros. Some guys are much better in college and some are much better in the pros. There haven't been very many who could do both well.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by jayinalaska :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 9:45pm

Two successful fake punts by the Jets now. Maybe they've been reading TMQ.

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Re: Week 5 Open Discussion Thread
by Shane S. (not verified) :: Mon, 10/12/2009 - 9:45pm

fake twice in one game? wow.

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