Official NFL Divisional Weekend Thread

Games are tomorrow, so it's time for a new thread. Feel free to continue discussing the discussions in the other thread in that thread, but it won't be stickied anymore and this one will be.

I shot you a PM Dr_Love ... since you're the resident NFL historian ... how many domed teams have gone outdoors and won in below freezing weather?

I shot you a PM Dr_Love ... since you're the resident NFL historian ... how many domed teams have gone outdoors and won in below freezing weather?
Sorry, I forgot about that. I don't know. I'll see what I can dig up.

I shot you a PM Dr_Love ... since you're the resident NFL historian ... how many domed teams have gone outdoors and won in below freezing weather?
I had seen the stat last week, and it wasn't good. I'll leave it to the love doctor to get the exact number.

I had seen the stat last week, and it wasn't good. I'll leave it to the love doctor to get the exact number.
Oh great, put all the pressure on me. Dome teams on the road in the playoffs isn't hard to get but in freezing weather? That's tough.

Overall, dome teams are just 11-32 in the frigid outdoors come playoff time. :amazed:

http://www.mediarelations.k-state.edu/WEB/News/NewsReleases/NFLplayoffs11205.html

Overall, dome teams are just 11-32 in the frigid outdoors come playoff time. :amazed:

http://www.mediarelations.k-state.edu/WEB/News/NewsReleases/NFLplayoffs11205.html (http://www.mediarelations.k-state.edu/WEB/News/NewsReleases/NFLplayoffs11205.html)That doesn't specify below freezing though. I'm taking an educated guess that there are only a handful of games (i.e. maybe 5) in freezing weather involving dome teams. Atlanta/GB comes to mind, I recall light snow at the end of the game, and Atlanta won.

EDIT: Indy/NE last year was in the snow too. So that's 1-1 in recent years.

well what can I say, GO PATS GO!!!!!!

Sorry had to get that out :D

Man it's going to be a great weekend of football. Every game has the making of being a great one.

New England has kept the field uncovered, so it has beened rained on and it will make it good and muddy by Sunday. This will make it tougher on the Colts, but it should still be a good game, but with the Pats coming out on top.:D

I love Belichik's reply to the question about the field being uncovered ... "I'm not the one in charge of pulling up the weeds" ... remember kids ... cheaters ALWAYS WIN

The Pats should have covered the field, and should be reprimanded for it... but it affects them just the same. They're just as liable to twist an ankle as Indy, and clearly it's a risk they're willing to take.

The Pats should have covered the field, and should be reprimanded for it... but it affects them just the same. They're just as liable to twist an ankle as Indy, and clearly it's a risk they're willing to take.
That's why home field advantage can matter in the NFL. I think this kind of stuff just adds drama and makes for a great story.

The Pats should have covered the field, and should be reprimanded for it... but it affects them just the same. They're just as liable to twist an ankle as Indy, and clearly it's a risk they're willing to take.

don't give me that ... you would be saying the same thing if the Eagles did the same thing to a domed team as well ;) ... but I guess having that crap @$$ rug for that many years is the same thing

Lets go VIKINGS.... :gman:

I think domes are unAmerican and anti-football. Games played in weather tend to be memorable and tons of fun to watch. Some of my favorite games are Broncos games played in the snow.

don't give me that ... you would be saying the same thing if the Eagles did the same thing to a domed team as well ;) ... but I guess having that crap @$$ rug for that many years is the same thing
Uh, I'm rooting for the Vikings in this game. I don't like the Eagles any more than a number of teams.

Lets go VIKINGS.... :gman:





:yo:

I think domes are unAmerican and anti-football. Games played in weather tend to be memorable and tons of fun to watch. Some of my favorite games are Broncos games played in the snow.Agreed. Remember the Denver/Oakland game earlier this year? In good weather, it had no interest to non Bronco and Raider fans. But because it snowed, people watched (and got a good game in return). Bad weather makes for entertainment, whether it be a convict plowing the field for a game winning FG, or Sterling Sharpe seeming to not realize where the end zone was.

The Pats should have covered the field, and should be reprimanded for it... but it affects them just the same. They're just as liable to twist an ankle as Indy, and clearly it's a risk they're willing to take.

It could also lead to them not playing Seymour's injured knee on a bad field.

It could also lead to them not playing Seymour's injured knee on a bad field.
Right you are Ken. And if the Colts have to run the ball more... well it's not like they're mediocre at RB.

If Moss scores and fake moons the crowd again, he will be my favorite athlete ever!

If Moss scores and fake moons the crowd again, he will be my favorite athlete ever!If he fake moons the crowd again it would be lame uncreativity. He rarely does a celebration other than leaping into the stands though.

I'd like to see him punch Dave Spadaro.

If Moss scores and fake moons the crowd again, he will be my favorite athlete ever!



I hope he does something like that again, it's awesomely entertaining :D :D :D

Right you are Ken. And if the Colts have to run the ball more... well it's not like they're mediocre at RB.

I think the Patriots would prefer to have James have to beat them then Peyton.

And I don't see anything wrong with not covering the field. They will make the field up this weekend and it will be ready for Sunday but I don't think they should be forced to cover it. Mother Nature is raining and snowing on the field not the Patriots. It's called home field advantage for a reason, the Patriots earned the right to do as they wish.

I think the Patriots would prefer to have James have to beat them then Peyton.

And I don't see anything wrong with not covering the field. They will make the field up this weekend and it will be ready for Sunday but I don't think they should be forced to cover it. Mother Nature is raining and snowing on the field not the Patriots. It's called home field advantage for a reason, the Patriots earned the right to do as they wish.
They have a tarp, they should use it. I don't have a problem with it either aside from the standpoint that it might not give us the viewers and fans the best game possible. Other than that I don't really care, because the field conditions are going to affect the Patriots just the same, so they can live or die by the sword they made.

They have a tarp, they should use it. I don't have a problem with it either aside from the standpoint that it might not give us the viewers and fans the best game possible. Other than that I don't really care, because the field conditions are going to affect the Patriots just the same, so they can live or die by the sword they made.

I watched PTI and they said that an NFL official came to Foxboro and made the team cover the field. I think the Pats should be able to leave the field uncovered if they wanted to, but I guess the NFL doesn't agree.

I read that the Pats only need to cover the field only the day prior to the game, that's it, so if that is the rule I don't see them doing anything wrong. The league should make it mandatory for the WHOLE week, not just the day before the game. But don't blame the Pats for taking advantage of homefield advantage, they earned that right to be ********.

I read that the Pats only need to cover the field only the day prior to the game, that's it, so if that is the rule I don't see them doing anything wrong. The league should make it mandatory for the WHOLE week, not just the day before the game. But don't blame the Pats for taking advantage of homefield advantage, they earned that right to be ********.

Exactly :)

The key to the game this weekend for the Pats is to a) score first and b) force an early turnover(s). Everyone knows Peyton's struggles against the Patriots and if they can get off to a fast start they could be in good shape. The only time Peyton faced any type of media/game pressure was against the Texans when everyone and his dog was talking about the record. In that game Peyton threw 2 INT's that I had not seen him throw at any other time in the year.

Some people think that Manning in unflappable, while I think it's very difficult to get in his head, it's not impossible. Dillion needs to be a huge factor because I'm sure how much of a chance the Pats have in a shootout. A lot of people do underrate the Pats offense, which was 4th in the NFL in points scored. Mathis is out for the Colts, which means Freeny will be the only pass rusher the Pats have to worry about, Brady shouldn't have much pressure on him.

To be honest I am pretty worried about this game because I have that sinking feeling that Manning is due to beat the Pats. But the Colts are beatable and if the Patriots can get out of the gates quick, I like their chances.

Latest reports have the temp at gametime probably around 1F/-6C but the temp is sure to drop as night falls.

Latest reports have the temp at gametime probably around 1F/-6C but the temp is sure to drop as night falls.
Where are you getting that from? I read that it's a 32/18F, meaning the IMO the game will probably start at 25F and end 21F. As far as wind chill, that's another story unless you are talking about the wind chill.

Where are you getting that from? I read that it's a 32/18F, meaning the IMO the game will probably start at 25F and end 21F. As far as wind chill, that's another story unless you are talking about the wind chill.

http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/cities/usa/pages/USMA0046.htm

But that could be off.

http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/cities/usa/pages/USMA0046.htm

But that could be off.
This is what I got.

http://www.weather.com/outlook/events/sports/weather/tenday/02035?eventid=136392&epc=bi

And actually I hope your forecast is more accurate, I love watching cold weather games.

Where are you getting that from? I read that it's a 32/18F, meaning the IMO the game will probably start at 25F and end 21F. As far as wind chill, that's another story unless you are talking about the wind chill.





I think he forgot to add the other (9) digit.

I think he forgot to add the other (9) digit.

Yeah I did make a typo in my original post.

guys that were talking about the Domes...

Given the times of the year that the NFL plays their games, there are reasons why some teams have domes... I don't agree with it, domes are stupid, but you can't argue weather. There's a reason why the super bowl hasn't been in Green Bay in a long time... it's too cold. The wind in Wisconsin and Minnesota are horrible. Plus, Minnesota shares theirs with the Twins.

Domes should be illegal in both football and baseball. There's no weather that decides games... it blows

oh and GO VIKINGS GO!!

I'd like to see him punch Dave Spadaro.


:lol:

That would be an awesome celebration. Hopefully it would catch on and other players would do it, too.

guys that were talking about the Domes...

Given the times of the year that the NFL plays their games, there are reasons why some teams have domes... I don't agree with it, domes are stupid, but you can't argue weather. There's a reason why the super bowl hasn't been in Green Bay in a long time... it's too cold. The wind in Wisconsin and Minnesota are horrible. Plus, Minnesota shares theirs with the Twins.

Domes should be illegal in both football and baseball. There's no weather that decides games... it blows

oh and GO VIKINGS GO!!

There is a more practical reason why teams use domes: MONEY.

A football stadium starts out booked for, AT MOST, 14 days. And that is of they host the Superbowl. The other 351 days are open for other events: concerts, tracter pulls, whatever.

If you are in a Northern climate, you revenue stream is cut in half. Think the Rolling Stones will play outside in Minnesota during December? Want to see the Monster Trucks stall because the cold sapped their batteries?

If you are in a Northern climate, you revenue stream is cut in half. Think the Rolling Stones will play outside in Minnesota during December? Want to see the Monster Trucks stall because the cold sapped their batteries?
That's why retractable roofs are so cool. Close them up for concerts, graduations, and other wussy events. When it's football time, open them up and let nature impact the game. Snow, mud, and wind make games so fun to watch.

Though for places like Minnesota, being able to close the roof is important for when the temperature gets too low. Cold weather games are fun to watch, but not when fans start getting frostbite.

Here We Go Steelers, Here We Go!

Here We Go Steelers, Here We Go!

Merril Hoge, is that you? ;)

There are many interesting matchups in the Eagles-Vikings game, but these are the most:


1. DE Jevon Kearse vs RT Adam Goldberg
The Vikings offensive line has been riddled with injuries. Kearse dominated the line when it was healthy earlier this season, so the sky may be the limit for what Kearse has the capability of doing. Should be in Culpepper's face all day.

2. CB Lito Sheppard vs WR Randy Moss
With the exception of the jumpball in Week 2 that Moss caught in the endzone, the NFL's best reciever was contained well in the previous matchup. Can Sheppard hold his ground again?

3. OLB Dhani Jones vs TE Jermaine Wiggins
Wiggins has been a large reason why the Vikings have excelled at not only passing the long ball, but the mid-range passes as well. Jason Witten was really the only tight end who ran over Dhani Jones this season, and Wiggins could have the potential to do the same. How much of a factor Wiggins is will strongly help or hurt the Vikings passing game.

4. G Jermane Mayberry vs DT Kevin Williams
Kevin Williams had an amazing year, and whether Mayberry can contain him and allow McNabb to stay in the pocket is a big question mark.

5. TE L.J. Smith vs OLB Keith Newman
With the Eagles wideouts likely to not be the highlight of the Eagles passing game, the play of the tight ends will be vital. Corey Chavous, the Vikings' strong safety will see little or no playing time, so it's up to LJ Smith and Chad Lewis to beat Newman and get open.

Here We Go Steelers, Here We Go!!!

Interesting statistic- NE offense over their last five games av 30 pts
INDY offense over their last five games av. 28 pts

Interesting statistic- NE offense over their last five games av 30 pts
INDY offense over their last five games av. 28 pts

The last five games includes the game Indy played with their backup offense, and only scored 28 points. Don't count that game, and the number goes up.

The last five games includes the game Indy played with their backup offense, and only scored 28 points. Don't count that game, and the number goes up.
NE gave backups significant time in their last game too and only scored 21.

I'm not saying NE is better offensivly but they aren't too far behind, and are certainly being overlooked with the buzz surrounding Indy and Manning's record setting year.

NE gave backups significant time in their last game too and only scored 21.

I'm not saying NE is better offensivly but they aren't too far behind, and are certainly being overlooked with the buzz surrounding Indy and Manning's record setting year.

I agree but I think that plays in their favour. Noone really thinks of the Patriots of a team that can score points but their offense has come together this season. The main reason of course being Corey Dillion!

If the Jets pull off a miracle today I will be both elated and amazed :eek:

Here We Go Steelers, Here We Go!!!




:handclap: :handclap: :handclap: :handclap:

If the Jets pull off a miracle today I will be both elated and amazed :eek:

Jets chance of winning = NHL being played this season.

Jets chance of winning = NHL being played this season.







:lol: Haha that's what it looks like but ya know anything can happen on any given Sunday (or Saturday).....

My bold prediction...

Jets win in OT off an interception.

Maybe its just me, but I think the Jets have a decent chance of winning today. If they can avoid turning the ball over, they have a good shot. Roethlisberger struggled down the stretch and if they can get an early INT they could be in good shape.

Jets chance of winning = NHL being played this season.

Except there is a >1% chance of any hockey season, while the Jets have at least a 30% chance of winning.

still hoping for the steelers-eagles superbowl :yo:

if it happens, any way they could hold it at beaver stadium in state college? the whole state would turn out for that.

Jets-Steelers..... I dont really care who wins but my dad is a big steelers fan so I gues even though im not a Roethlisberger fan I will cheer for them.

J-E-T-S! JETS! JETS! JETS!

I say 31-13 Pittsburg Stillerz

Lets go Steelers, Patriots, Falcons and Vikings!!!!

Jericho Cotchery is a name I wish on no one, unless your name is Jericho Crotchery.

Except there is a >1% chance of any hockey season, while the Jets have at least a 30% chance of winning.

Actually, the Jets have a 29.645693854049092376503% chance of winning. :shakehead

I'm predicting 28-17 Pittsburgh.

why is big ben throwing into double/triple coverage

http://hfchat.digitalzones.com/SimpleApplet.html

http://hfchat.digitalzones.com/SimpleApplet.html (http://hfchat.digitalzones.com/SimpleApplet.html)
Yes, definitely. It's a lot more fun this way.

3-0 Pittsburgh

tied 10-10 :shakehead

Bad quarter from the Steelers, awful half from Roethlisberger.

Abraham's done a great job taking Burress out of the game.

Bad quarter from the Steelers, awful half from Roethlisberger.
He needs to take off the batting glove.

******* it. Roethlisberger on the run, throwns an INT which is returned for a TD.

I have a bad feeling the Steelers are done.

Whoa boy...Steelers in BIG trouble...

Wow, Jets just got a pick for a touchdown :banghead: :banghead: :banghead:

damn it.
It sure looks bleak right now.
These Steelers don't play like a 15-1 team.

Gotta find some sort of wizard to cure this playoff curse. Damn.

These Steelers don't play like a 15-1 team.



Well, they for sure aren't playing like a 15-1 team right now.

The bad thing is, I don't think Pennington is far away from throwing a long touchdown. He's looked fairly ominous at times.

that was a favre-esque int by big ben

I think Roethlisberger is on pace for a career high in pass attempts. Could be wrong though, although right now he has about his season average. When did Paul Hackett start calling plays for the Steelers?

Uh-oh fumble recovered by the Jets.

Bettis fumbles in prime scoring position. Steelers are in big, big trouble.

I think Roethlisberger is on pace for a career high in pass attempts. Could be wrong though, although right now he has about his season average. When did Paul Hackett start calling plays for the Steelers?
Maybe the wires are all mixed up.

One more score from the Jets, and you can put this game in the books.

Come on Steelers, lets get it done.

Maybe the wires are all mixed up.
Seems like it. Roethlisberger's high for attempts is 25. He's got 21 right now. They're getting away from what got them here.

Nice run by 'Berger....

Come to the chat guys, there are links at the bottom of the page.

Tie game 17-17!

Come to the chat guys, there are links at the bottom of the page.
It wont work for me :dunno:

It wont work for me :dunno:
Did you try both links?

I tried both links but neither of them would work.

Roooooooooookieeeeeeeeeeeee..........

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

Go Jets

Int

yea it doesnt work for me either

another int

When did Kordell Stewart come into the game?

Roooooooooookieeeeeeeeeeeee..........




Who's indeed playing like one tonight :shakehead

Steelers have lost it for themselves. Eliminate those three MASSIVE turnovers, and the Steelers win.

They can kick it on third down, and if they miss they can kick it again! :joker:

Dudes, this game is insane. Who thought the Jets would even have a chance? Good for Pennington, I like this guy and he (and Herm Edwards) take too much crap from ungrateful Jets fans. Sure, Herm makes mistakes but all coaches do.

i dunno about that call

i dunno about that call
Wasn't a bad call, it wound the clock down, basically making it FG or OT.

They can kick it on third down, and if they miss they can kick it again! :joker:

referring to Steven A.? ROFL

wow who wulda thoguht it would go ot this

Omg

The kick is up and it is................................................ ........

No good

DUmbass.

OT here we come.

Brien with the kick to win it, four seconds to go. I don't think he'll miss this one.

He does!! Overtime!!!

omg, what a horrible kick! omg

ugly kick

No good! No good!!!

Pittsburgh better not win,or else we would hear about Ben's "heroics" even if he has nothing to do with winning it.

SOB

Pittsburgh better not win,or else we would hear about Ben's "heroics" even if he has nothing to do with winning it.

SOB

rofl

referring to Steven A.? ROFL
Yes.

This is one hell of a game.

It's over for the Jets, all the wind got taken out of their sails, wtf is with the photographer at the coin toss?

Pittsburgh better not win,or else we would hear about Ben's "heroics" even if he has nothing to do with winning it.

SOB

Ben would have far more to do with a Steeler's loss than he would a Steeler's win. His 'clutch' time INTs are killers. If Brien was a decent kicker, Steelers are done.

Pittsburgh better not win,or else we would hear about Ben's "heroics" even if he has nothing to do with winning it.

SOB
He's playing beyond his years. Beyond his years like Vinny Testaverde.

Let's get ****ing real here. The Jets can not let Doug Brien kick again. They are so ****ed. They better return the opening kickoff in OT.

Should have made at least one attempt to score. Why play that conservative when your kicker sucks?

Ben would have far more to do with a Steeler's loss than he would a Steeler's win. His 'clutch' time INTs are killers. If Brien was a decent kicker, Steelers are done.

That's what I mean.He is doing nothing to win games.I think he is the most overrated player in the league,even ahead of Vick.It's nice that he went 13-0,but he never had to actually "win" a game,just not make a ton of mistakes....he made a lot today though.

brien can make up for it with a fg here

but man if he misses 3 id hate to be him going back to new york

That's kind of freaky, I had a feeling he'd miss

:eek:

Dudes, this game is insane. Who thought the Jets would even have a chance?

Anyone who watched the previous matchup between these teams did not completely discard the Jets' chances.

Anyone who watched the previous matchup between these teams did not completely discard the Jets' chances.

Ah, I had no idea.

Omg, first down.

Anyhoot, I don't think Roethlisberger is over rated. His passer rating is fantastic, he's hasn't lost a game, and he plays better than most vets. The one quarterback I would compare him to (in terms of what he means to his team/not a big numbers guy) is Troy Aikman. I think 3 years from now he will be scary.

You think Pitt could have plugged in someone like A.J. "Fscking" Feely and they would still have this sort of success? I think not. The kid has presence that alot of QBs don't have.

Ah, I had no idea.

Omg, first down.

Anyhoot, I don't think Roethlisberger is over rated. His passer rating is fantastic, he's hasn't lost a game, and he plays better than most vets. The one quarterback I would compare him to (in terms of what he means to his team/not a big numbers guy) is Troy Aikman. I think 3 years from now he will be scary.
He quarterbacks the 5th worst passing offense in the league and his high for attempts is a bad day for most starters. He's a cog in a team, but being pimped like he's the engine.

you can call holding on any play in the NFL ... clearly a mary kay after the generous non-overturned pass reception

Martin doesn't play like he hates the games does he?

punt time

Martin doesn't play like he hates the games does he?
I'd probably hate it too if the only media outlets to cover me were Boston and NY.

Here We Go, Steelers, Here We Go

Pittsburgh's Goin' To The Super Bowl

Good thing Roethlisberger donated his game check, because he hasn't earned it.

See, Dr. Love, this is how debates get started :)

Since we (the fans & media) pimp all quarterbacks like they mean so much to their teams, why can't we say the same about Ben? With this logic Tom Brady is an over-rated cog too.

Well, I can see the argument for, though. Even with Brady I can see it the way you see it, but still. Give the man some dap. He does do things well like throwing on the run. That seems to be the most underated skill in the NFL. Afer watching Jake Delhomme for 2 seasons and thinking he was a total hack (until the Super Bowl), I've come to realize throwing on the run maybe the most important skill in the NFL nowadays. If you have a QB who can throw accurate while moving along with a good running game then I will show you a winner ;)

K, I went off on a long, wierd tangent there....I need sleep.

Well, it's safe to say Doug Brien will be released. My God, how many teams has he played for now? 4 or 5?

If I was him, I'd stay the hell away from East Rutherford, Queens, and wherever else he might be recognized/lynched.

1. DE Jevon Kearse vs RT Adam Goldberg
The Vikings offensive line has been riddled with injuries. Kearse dominated the line when it was healthy earlier this season, so the sky may be the limit for what Kearse has the capability of doing. Should be in Culpepper's face all day.

Defenders have been in Culpepper's face all year. McKinnie has struggled and Goldberg is 4th different RT they have started. Culpepper has shown tremendous ability to avoid the rush and/or shrug off would-be sacks, but the Eagles pass rush will again test him.

Hey, it can't be any worse than last time. At least Kearse isn't allowed to feast on the grossly outmatched Adam Haayer.

2. CB Lito Sheppard vs WR Randy Moss
With the exception of the jumpball in Week 2 that Moss caught in the endzone, the NFL's best reciever was contained well in the previous matchup. Can Sheppard hold his ground again?

I keep reading that in the press and I don't get it. Moss didn't rack up numbers, but he had a HUGE impact on the game. His PI call led to a Vikes score and he had a TD of his own. More importantly, the Eagles entire defensive scheme was shifted to contain Moss and the deep passing game. Dawkins and Lewis rarely, if ever, played in the box or blitzed. Vikes took advantage of the underneath game that deep coverage opened up to the tune of 20-catches by TEs and RBs. It wasn't so much a Lito Sheppard vs. Randy as it was the Eagles defense vs. Randy. You can count the times Lito didn't have safety help on one hand. One of those times being the TD.

I expect the Eagles to do much of the same again. While Randy is hobbled, he is still a handful 1-on-1. Burleson's emergence is a boon, so the Vikes deep attack still has to be respected. It will likely lead to underneath yards again, but better to force the Vikes into 10+ play drives then let this become a shoot-out. McNabb just doesn't have the tools around him to win that game.

3. OLB Dhani Jones vs TE Jermaine Wiggins
Wiggins has been a large reason why the Vikings have excelled at not only passing the long ball, but the mid-range passes as well. Jason Witten was really the only tight end who ran over Dhani Jones this season, and Wiggins could have the potential to do the same. How much of a factor Wiggins is will strongly help or hurt the Vikings passing game.

Wiggins is kinda like Lewis for the Eagles a few years back: a product of his situation. I don't mean that insultingly, as he is the right man for the job, but that he is getting a lot of garbage yards and making uncontested catches. He doesn't have the talent of a Witten. Vikes typically put 2-TEs or 3-WRs on the field. If Jones is covering Wiggins, who is watching Bennet/Moore/Smith out of the backfield? Jones is the fastest LB starting, so I suspect he would go there. Leaving Adams/Trotter to worry about Wiggins.

Regardless, I suspect the Vikes will get their share of yards again. Hopefully they don't choke in the RedZone this time so they actually result in TDs. I think that plays into both team's plans: Eagles don't want a shoot out and the Vikes want long drives to keep their defense off the field.

4. G Jermane Mayberry vs DT Kevin Williams
Kevin Williams had an amazing year, and whether Mayberry can contain him and allow McNabb to stay in the pocket is a big question mark.

Williams was a tank last time and has improved as the year has gone on. Vikes can mount a fairly decent pass rush. Where they have been weak is runs in the middle (Williams is more a 1-gap type, Spencer Johnson is sub-par NT). Luckily for the Vikes, the Eagles don't have the power runner to expoit it. Too bad the Vikes also have trouble stopping off-tackle runs because of poor LB play, and Westbrook can DEFINATELY do that.

5. TE L.J. Smith vs OLB Keith Newman
With the Eagles wideouts likely to not be the highlight of the Eagles passing game, the play of the tight ends will be vital. Corey Chavous, the Vikings' strong safety will see little or no playing time, so it's up to LJ Smith and Chad Lewis to beat Newman and get open.

Claiborne is the better cover LB on the Vikes, but he is also their best blitzer so hard to say how he will be used. Vikes have flat out SUCKED stopping passes to RBs/TEs this year. None of their LBs are any good in coverage and Chavous was their only decent cover safety. Smith and Lewis should be open often and have good days.

You missed the match-up I think is most important: ??? versus Westbrook.

Vikes don't have anybody who can match-up with him. Westbrook gouged them last time and will gouge them again I fear. I have read that the Vikes may use more of a base-nickel formation with Winfield subbing in for Offord and shadowing Westbrook. I think that is the only way the Vikes can hope to contain him.

In all, this is the Eagles game to lose. If they bring their 'A' game, Vikes are done. If the Eagles come in rusty or flat (which is quite possible), then the door opens for an upset. Whoever gets the momentum going first will go a long way towards a win. The Vikes defense has proven completely inept at providing a big-stop in the 4th quarter. However, they Vikes have also shown that when they get on a roll, they are a force to be reckoned with.

See, Dr. Love, this is how debates get started :)

Since we (the fans & media) pimp all quarterbacks like they mean so much to their teams, why can't we say the same about Ben? With this logic Tom Brady is an over-rated cog too.

Well, I can see the argument for, though. Even with Brady I can see it the way you see it, but still. Give the man some dap. He does do things well like throwing on the run. That seems to be the most underated skill in the NFL. Afer watching Jake Delhomme for 2 seasons and thinking he was a total hack (until the Super Bowl), I've come to realize throwing on the run maybe the most important skill in the NFL nowadays. If you have a QB who can throw accurate while moving along with a good running game then I will show you a winner ;)

K, I went off on a long, wierd tangent there....I need sleep.I totally disagree. Brady has been driving the Pats offense, and hasn't had the talent that Ben has. The Steelers have one of the best running games in the league, and the best WR corps in the league. Brady hasn't had a sniff of either until this year with the addition of Dillion.

ballgame...drive home safely folks

Neither QB impressed me today, but the Steelers running game did.

Well, it's safe to say Doug Brien will be released.




I, think it pretty much is...

Unbelievable. What relief. Roethlisberger looked nervous, hopefully he'll be better next week. He made one or two keys plays though, and he needed to, to make up for his interceptions. I'm a bit worried of the prospect of having Willie Williams up against the Colts receivers.

Great game from the Jets, by the way. Well played!!

0-1 for picks but the outcome I wanted.

Pittsburgh survives.

I'm predicting 28-17 Pittsburgh.




Dammit, my prediction was almost exactly right....

With the exception of the jumpball in Week 2 that Moss caught in the endzone, the NFL's best reciever was contained well in the previous matchup. Can Sheppard hold his ground again?

He was covered by Brown for half the game.

I was pretty close on the score. I predicted 21-17, so one more point for the Steelies and I would've been bang on.

Roethlisberger is lucky Brien sucks.

Let's go Falcons!

Brien sucks.



I think that's been obvious for awhile now.

Watch out for the Jets next year. With a possible three 1st round picks (If Dallas signs Abraham) and with our young fast defense the Jets will be a team to be wreckened with. We need a good WR this draft and maybe a good SS or CB.

I think that's been obvious for awhile now.
Yes, but tonight was ridiculous. The past three weeks have been a joke actually.

Jets should bring John Hall back if the Redskins are going to have Chandler as their kicker next season.

It's time for the Mike Vick show.Im a Vick fan and a Rams fan :dunno:

Birds are goin' down tonight, a 24-17 final. Go Rams!!

It's time for the Mike Vick show.Im a Vick fan and a Rams fan :dunno:
Well I like common sense and Mike Martz, so that's even more confusing.

Roethlisberger is lucky Brien sucks.
And that he's got Bettis and Staley.

The Rams D isn't great Vick may have a field day running the ball

Jets should bring John Hall back if the Redskins are going to have Chandler as their kicker next season.




Absolutely, Hall IMO is pretty decent and he's also quite capable of making 50+ yarders....

Vick should have turned that back inside, he could have had a TD.

Vick should have turned that back inside, he could have had a TD.

I was thinking the same. Rams player was toast

Crumpler in the end zone! Touchdown Falcons!

-I have never been this emotionally drained in my life. I lost my voice halfway through the fourth quarter, my face is red, I've lost all lingering thoughts of an appetite...

-I have never been so emotional and emotive in my life as I was throughout the game and when Jeff Reed made that kick all I could do was turn and hug my dad.

-Ben Roethlisberger clearly wasn't himself today. His throws didn't have the same zip as usually, which makes me believe his thumb was hurt...but the thing that worries me more is the fact that those two interceptions weren't just bad throws, they were bad decisions.

-Hines Ward proved why I still feel he's the second best receiver in the game. He made every catch that was thrown in his direction sans for a ball that bounced to him. Roethlisberger didn't make it easy for the receivers, especially Ward, but Ward was glue today.

-Without Troy Polamalu there's no way the Steelers won this game. He was the Steelers heart all game.

-Clark Haggans followed up behind Polamalu as having the second best game on the defense IMO...after not having played in over a month.

-The defense deserves some kind of medal of honor. The Jets scored 17 points, but only 3 offensively.

-If the Jets had tried to gain yardage instead of just accepting a field goal attempt on both tries New York would have advanced. Doug Brien will, unfairly, get the blame for this loss. There is no surface harder in the NFL to kick in than Heinz Field. You don't just leave a kicker to kick a field goal that would tie the record for the longest at Heinz Field to win a playoff game. Even a 42 yarder at Heinz Field is about the equivelant to a 52 anywhere else. Jeff Reed barely made a 33 yard kick and he definitely wouldn't have made that kick from anything past 40.

-Herm Edwards continues to amaze me. The way he kept his team in this going into one of the toughest places to play after coming off two consecutive OT games and being down 10-0 early...this man truly is one of the best coaches in the NFL.

-My heart goes out to Herm Edwards, Doug Brien, Chad Pennington, and everyone on that New York Jets team. They played a hell of a game and had a hell of a season. Congratulations on a fantastic season New York.

The Rams D isn't great Vick may have a field day running the ball

:dunno: Didn't think it would be that early though :lol

I was thinking the same. Rams player was toast

Crumpler in the end zone! Touchdown Falcons!
I'm a vocal guy about him not running, but he had the angle on Edwards.

And thats why Vick just got that huge extension.

:dunno: Didn't think it would be that early though :lol



lol 5 minutes hasn't even passed yet, and they scored already.

Both teams look very emotional. This could be a shoot out.

Guess neither team plans on playing on any defense.

Wow, the minute I typed "it could be a shootout" that is the minute Bulger throws his first pass. Touchdown, Rams.

Take it from me, the Falcons defense (and their o-line) is much over-rated. This will be a shootout, but the Falcons will still win. I loathe Mike Martz.

The Falcons pretty much let Curtis run free. And they let Holt get away with more. That was terrible coverage, and a terrible play call by Donatell.

I'm drained and still too sad and dissapointed to discuss this game. I know there is no morale victories, espically when we had a win at our fingertips, but this whole team deserves major credit and Doug Brien blew it.

I loathe Mike Martz.

Is that you Wilbon?

And another big play. Rams defense is just horrible.

Note to JMJr. Keep the ball on the ground.

14-7 Falcons.

Man. Wouldn't a Colts/Falcons SuperBowl be fun. I'd be drunker than a skunk with the drinking games we play.

Vick's Falcon record of longest run from scrimmage in the playoffs didn't last long.

Is that you Wilbon?

I though Martz was Wilbon's boy now

I though Martz was Wilbon's boy now

Is he? :lol

Wilbon rips him apart nearly every time I see PTI.

Wow, the minute I typed "it could be a shootout" that is the minute Bulger throws his first pass. Touchdown, Rams.

Take it from me, the Falcons defense (and their o-line) is much over-rated. This will be a shootout, but the Falcons will still win. I loathe Mike Martz.

And you are?

']I'm drained and still too sad and dissapointed to discuss this game. I know there is no morale victories, espically when we had a win at our fingertips, but this whole team deserves major credit and Doug Brien blew it.uh

the jets offense blew it

when your defense and special teams outscores your offense 14-3, you dont deseve to win regardless if your kicker missed field goals

Is that you Wilbon?

No, Mike Martz is an ass clown. He refuses to run the ball at times. If the Rams were coach by anyone else the Rams would be winning the Super Bowl every year IMO. He has some nice players on his squad, but he's not getting everything out of them to me.

Case in point to why I hate Mike Martz:

When Chris Chandler had to play, he wanted to throw the ball on every down? Why? In that game against the Panthers, it was obvious the Rams could have ran the ball with their third string running back (Jackson and Faulk were hurt). But nooooo....he kept throwing the ball. And the Cats picked Chandler off 6 teams. At halftime, Mike Martz completely threw Chandler under the bus. I can't remember who they played the following week, but Martz threw Chandler under the bus again. That was total bunk.

Kyle Turley should have punched the dude.

This has looked more like a Madden 2005 game then a playoff game.Vick=Superman

And you are?
Storminator16.

Vick's Falcon record of longest run from scrimmage in the playoffs didn't last long.
I don't know what the Fox guys are talking about, since the record is Fred Taylor with a 90 TD yd run in 1999.

And you are?

Someone who's watched enough of the Falcons to realize they really aren't that great. Just very lucky.

Enough of this message board stuff. Good night to you, gents.

No, Mike Martz is an ass clown. He refuses to run the ball at times. If the Rams were coach by anyone else the Rams would be winning the Super Bowl every year IMO.
Not with this defense, or with 2000's defense.

Not with this defense, or with 2000's defense.

He has some good players on his defense. Coaching is their hindrance, and that quick strike "pass on every down" offense.

Doesn't matter. The Rams will lose this game and you Mike Martz supporters will still be in denial.

I don't know what the Fox guys are talking about, since the record is Fred Taylor with a 90 TD yd run in 1999.
Uh, Fred Taylor plays for the jags Doc. ;)

I don't know what the Fox guys are talking about, since the record is Fred Taylor with a 90 TD yd run in 1999.

Taylor wasn't a Falcon ;)

Ouch that hurts. Foot on the line.

He has some good players on his defense. Coaching is their hindrance, and that quick strike "pass on every down" offense.
He's got **** LBers, mediocre CBs, FS has been a revolving door of suckage, and the D-line has been poor for most of the season. Archuleta and Little are the only guys consistently worth their paycheck, and Fisher is alright but has been hurt. And special teams have been terrible.

Aeneas Williams playing?

I take they meant a Falcon record. :dunce:

Aeneas Williams playing?

no

Aeneas Williams playing?
No, and he's been bad this year, in part because he's been hurt.

Horrible play call.Could have seriously injured Vick

What's the record for rushing in a playoff game? Warrick Dunn may challenge it today

What's the record for rushing in a playoff game? Warrick Dunn may challenge it today
248 yards by Eric Dickerson. Next is the great OT-aided Lamar Smith.

What's the record for rushing in a playoff game? Warrick Dunn may challenge it today
Tim Smith in the Super Bowl had 204 for the Redskins and I remember Lamar Smith had over 200 in a wild card game, but I don't think either of their performace was the best.

Man the Rams run defense is just horrible.

Man the Rams run defense is just horrible.

Yup.

21-7

That's the third time today that I saw a player give a fan the football over scoring, I guess that's now the in thing.

21-7



:shakehead :shakehead :banghead: :banghead:

I still can't get used to the grass in the Dome.

Doh! 21-14

That's the third time today that I saw a player give a fan the football over scoring, I guess that's now the in thing.

Did you see the fans reaction after Dunn gave him the ball after his second TD.Just Wow

What a throw by Bulger to Holt

21-14

Fun game.

Did you see the fans reaction after Dunn gave him the ball after his second TD.Just Wow

Yeah, he creamed in his pants.

Did you see the fans reaction after Dunn gave him the ball after his second TD.Just Wow






Just pure funniness....hope it makes the highlight reel on Sports Center tonight.

Good call by the ref.

Siragusa needs to shut the hell up

WTF is wrong with the field.

Siragusa needs to shut the hell up

Agreed.

Good-bye

28-14

Oh **** no, tell me that didn't just happen.

55 yard try? What the hell?

Heh, he made it :dunce:

Nice kick

28-17

55 yard try? What the hell?

Wilkens makes 50+ in the dome all the time in St. Louis. Not surprised they tried and made it.

Nice kick

28-17
Second longest ever in the playoffs.

55 yard try? What the hell?
It was the end of the half, why not?

Second longest ever in the playoffs.




For Rams fans like myself, that's the only thing to be proud of in this game.

No D in the NFC....Id kill to be in Atlanta right now to see this game.

Vick is showing what the hype is all about. :eek:

Falcons Oline are simply dominating as well as McCrary (sp?), underrated around the league.

For Rams fans like myself, that's the only thing to be proud of in this game.
Kevin Curtis is having a huge game. 6 catches, 114 yards.

No D in the NFC
You're forgetting the Eagles.

Which of Three Stooges is the special teams coach for the Rams?

Which of Three Stooges is the special teams coach for the Rams?
Remember that one guy that was there for one season? I want to say his name was Joe. That's the best fit. Of course it doesn't help when no one can tackle anyone.

This game is brought to you by Everlast Boxing Gloves. Everlast Boxing Gloves, the prefered choice of the St. Louis Rams.

TD Vick to Price.

Challenge flag down.

Tentatively 34-17

35-17

35-17. Not going too good for the Rams :shakehead

Another good run back by Rossum

Rams are showing why they were a 8-8 team this year.

Vick sacked by Little Killer.

Field goal

38-17

Rams are showing why they were a 8-8 team this year.
What does that say about the 9-7 Seahawks?

What does that say about the 9-7 Seahawks?
The NFC in general is sad.

Nice pass by Bulger. Wrong uniform though.

The NFC in general is sad.





'Cept maybe for a few teams......

The NFC in general is sad.

sadly it is when a choke artist team like the Vikings make the playoffs and then go into Green Bay and win.

Wow, the Rams are amazing, they just turned the ball over again.

'Cept maybe for a few teams......
That's why I said "in general". ;)

That's why I said "in general". ;)




Oh ok, ma bad.

Main Entry: gen·er·al
Pronunciation: 'jen-r&l, 'je-n&-
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin generalis, from gener-, genus kind, class -- more at KIN
1 : involving, applicable to, or affecting the whole
2 : involving, relating to, or applicable to every member of a class, kind, or group <the general equation of a straight line>
3 : not confined by specialization or careful limitation
4 : belonging to the common nature of a group of like individuals : GENERIC
5 a : applicable to or characteristic of the majority of individuals involved : PREVALENT b : concerned or dealing with universal rather than particular aspects
6 : relating to, determined by, or concerned with main elements rather than limited details <bearing a general resemblance to the original>
7 : holding superior rank or taking precedence over others similarly titled <the general manager>


:p: I'm just busting your chops Lou.

well, Martz is an idiot. First he kicks on 4th and inches, then with 2 timeouts he does short sideline passes. Dumbass if I ever saw one.

What does that say about the 9-7 Seahawks?
even at 9-7 that team was a fluke.

Main Entry: gen·er·al
Pronunciation: 'jen-r&l, 'je-n&-
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin generalis, from gener-, genus kind, class -- more at KIN
1 : involving, applicable to, or affecting the whole
2 : involving, relating to, or applicable to every member of a class, kind, or group <the general equation of a straight line>
3 : not confined by specialization or careful limitation
4 : belonging to the common nature of a group of like individuals : GENERIC
5 a : applicable to or characteristic of the majority of individuals involved : PREVALENT b : concerned or dealing with universal rather than particular aspects
6 : relating to, determined by, or concerned with main elements rather than limited details <bearing a general resemblance to the original>
7 : holding superior rank or taking precedence over others similarly titled <the general manager>


:p: I'm just busting your chops Lou.

Don't do that Doc! I got flashbacks to the Poltical Forum there.

well, Martz is an idiot. First he kicks on 4th and inches, then with 2 timeouts he does short sideline passes. Dumbass if I ever saw one.
Yet he still keeps his job, makes no sense.

well, Martz is an idiot. First he kicks on 4th and inches, then with 2 timeouts he does short sideline passes. Dumbass if I ever saw one.





Well, what do you expect? Last year he was part of the reason why he costs us the season, I mean in that Divisonal game (against Carolina) there was like 30 seconds left and you'd expect a team to atleast try to get the touchdown (and I believe we we're not too far from the endzone) but yet he's way too soft and he just sits on the ball until theres like 4 or 3 seconds and winds up obviously just hitting the FG and sending it to OT where we eventually lost.

Falcons go over 300 yards rushing on the day.

Take the starters out now.

Yet he still keeps his job, makes no sense.A Superbowl apperance, 4 playoff appearances in 5 years, swept the division rival Seahawks in 3 games, one of the better winning percentages in the league during his tenure, and a team that while frustrating is very exciting to watch. How many coaches can equal or better his resume? One bad year that includes beating a divison rival on the road in the playoffs following a 12-4 season isn't reason enough to be fired. And he's not the GM so you can't blame him for the defensive and special teams woes. He ain't the best coach in the league but he gets results.

Utter Physical Domination

A Superbowl apperance, 4 playoff appearances in 5 years, swept the division rival Seahawks in 3 games, one of the better winning percentages in the league during his tenure, and a team that while frustrating is very exciting to watch. How many coaches can equal or better his resume? One bad year that includes beating a divison rival on the road in the playoffs following a 12-4 season isn't reason enough to be fired. And he's not the GM so you can't blame him for the defensive and special teams woes. He ain't the best coach in the league but he gets results.
No way, he's horrible, Dick Vermiel is still responsible for that second Super Bowl appearance, much like that third Super Bowl win by the Cowboys in the ninties was more of the work of Jimmy Johnson than Barry Switzer. Martz just took over this team and as done NOTHING great with it but turn into a team that can't tackle on defense or special teams, they can't tackle period.

When the Rams won the Super Bowl in 1999 their defense gave up just 242 points for the season, the following season they gave up 471 while in his five seasons giving up a average of 367 a season. A good coach in five years would have solved his defensive and special teams problems, lousy GM or not.

One thing he is good at is being a offensive cordinator, in fact he's great. He's just not a good head coach, he blows.

No way, he's horrible, Dick Vermiel is still responsible for that second Super Bowl appearance, much like that third Super Bowl win by the Cowboys in the ninties was more of the work of Jimmy Johnson than Barry Switzer. Martz just took over this team and as done NOTHING great with it but turn into a team that can't tackle on defense or special teams, they can't tackle period. I couldn't disagree more. I've got nothing but respect for Vermeil, but he gets way too much credit for the 1999 Rams. I don't think people understand how different they were from the '98 squad. They had a new offensive coordinator (Martz), lucked out on Warner, added Marshall Faulk, added Holt and Bly in the draft, got a huge year out of Tony Horne on kick returns, Hakim took over as a punt returner, got a full season out of Bruce and thus new every game starting WRs, 3 new starters on the O-line, 4 new starters on defense including Grant Winstrom, 8 new starters on offense... we're talking about a major facelift, and some luck with Warner. And in 2001 they had twelve new starters from the '99 team, so I don't think it's totally accurate to say that Vermeil was reponsible for that SB appearance.

When the Rams won the Super Bowl in 1999 their defense gave up just 242 points for the season, the following season they gave up 471 while in his five seasons giving up a average of 367 a season. A good coach in five years would have solved his defensive and special teams problems, lousy GM or not.And in 2001 they were 7th best in points against. They cleaned up the problem the next year.

One thing he is good at is being a offensive cordinator, in fact he's great. He's just not a good head coach, he's bad.I disagree. But I'm probably not going to get you to change your opinion.

I couldn't disagree more. I've got nothing but respect for Vermeil, but he gets way too much credit for the 1999 Rams. I don't think people understand how different they were from the '98 squad. They had a new offensive coordinator (Martz), lucked out on Warner, added Marshall Faulk, added Holt and Bly in the draft, got a huge year out of Tony Horne on kick returns, Hakim took over as a punt returner, got a full season out of Bruce and thus new every game starting WRs, 3 new starters on the O-line, 4 new starters on defense including Grant Winstrom, 8 new starters on offense... we're talking about a major facelift, and some luck with Warner. And in 2001 they had twelve new starters from the '99 team, so I don't think it's totally accurate to say that Vermeil was reponsible for that SB appearance.

You talk like all these great players feel into his lap as if he nothing to do with that, but alot of these players were nobody's that he took a chance on such as Kurt Warner, but a big difference was that Martz was the offensive cordinator of that team and had as much to do with success as anybody, but only because Vermeil was smart enough not to get in his way, something Martz has fail to conceive and never will. As a head coach his teams will score points and play to respectable records and perhaps make the playoffs on a consistent basis, but that's where it all ends for them because he refuses to give other areas of his team(defense, special teams) the focus he gives the offense.


And in 2001 they were 7th best in points against. They cleaned up the problem the next year.

And then he let it go to crap again. Look at it now, in this years regular season his defense could only muster up six interceptions and five of those were by Jerametrius Butler. He only knows how to coach offense, and it shows in the way they play defense.


I disagree. But I'm probably not going to get you to change your opinion.

I think that's the only think we will agree when it comes to this subject. ;)

I love you, Doug Brien.

Also, while Roethlisberger was flat out horrible today, the Steelers woes on offense had a lot to do with poor coaching. They didn't play Steeler football today. They didn't use the run as much as they should, and when they threw the INT late in regulation, it was even more frustrating because the reason they had gotten that far was the run, and they abandoned it.

Simply put, they needed to run the ball more, and they need to not call stupid plays that Roethlisberger messes up and that are stupid calls in the first place, like 15 or 20 yard passes to Burress. We have Staley and Bettis. Run the ball and dare them to stop you. Passes are fine, but they need to be shorter, high percentage passes.

On the other hand, although the Jets offense isn't that great, great job by Lebeau today. If there's one positive to take from this as a Steeler fan, it's that they only gave up 3 points with the actual defense playing.

The punt return was just utterly disgusting. Too many players tried to contain and Gardocki kicked it too low. That had bad written all over it. That kind of a play isn't going to happen much, and if they eliminate Roethlisberger throwing those moronic passes in places where it's a huge risk for a pick off, this game is a lot different.

They have to pick it up and have to get fired up for next week.

I <3 Doug Brien.

Anyone following NFL draft get me up to date on the best CB, G, DT, and WR for the upcomming draft. That is 4 positions I would like to pick up a player in the upcomming draft.