National Football League

[jmdirt]

Re:

Haven't posted in a while. Some thoughts.

In the NFL no one deserves much respect simply for longevity. Just because your last name is Manning may mean a lot to some people, but now when your team is 2-9 it doesn't mean squat. By the numbers, Eli is 24th in QBR, and 15th in passer rating. That puts him on par with Jacoby Brissette. Having said that, it wouldn't shock me to see Eli back starting in a week or two, or in Jacksonville next year, as a transition QB.

As to the Chiefs, I've seen most of their games, and the biggest mistake they have made in my eyes is that they are no longer throwing the ball down the field with any consistency. On many 3rd and long plays, or even 2nd and long plays, instead of doing what worked so well for the first few games in the season, they have gone back to doing things like quick slants, and short WR screens that are almost laterals, even a wildcat on one play. And they're not rolling him out, or moving the pocket much anymore either. Even Tony Dungee said similar, that what they really need to do is put the ball in Alex Smith's hands. If he fails at that, then he really is done in KC. But he wasn't the one who gave up on plays last week.

Historically young QB's don't lead their teams deep in the playoffs. There are exceptions. Marino, Montana, Brady and Roethlesberger. But these QBs are often on veteran teams with an established coach. As powerful as the Eagles look now, can Carson Wentz and Doug Pederson take them all the way?

What happens in Minnesota if, or when, they are in a tight, important game, and Case Keenum blows it, or can't deliver? What happens if they get to the playoffs, and he barely wins a game and looks iffy doing so? As good of a story Bridgewater is, he was still on the rise with room to improve when he got hurt. He's not quite as good (yet) as people remember. But Bradford is on IR and out for the remainder of the regular season. I don't think any coach would bring him back, first game, in the playoffs as a starter.

Are the Chargers for real? I think so. Rivers by the numbers isn't doing great, but he's made some clutch throws, plays and drives this year. That would be something to see a playoff game in lowly Stub Hub stadium, with some 27,000 people crammed in there.

The Patriots keep on winning while no one notices. But their defense still gives up way too many yards. Can the Steelers, or someone else upend them? Maybe, if their defense is enough to at least slow down Brady and co. or in key drives.

Despite the loss to LA and a close win over Washington I still believe in New Orleans. They have the best YPP in the NFL, by far. A number that has actually increased in recent weeks. Upcoming games against Carolina and Atlanta should be fun to watch.

Atlanta is playing very well, and 2nd in YPP, with a decent defense. But they play Minnesota, Carolina, Tampa, and the Saints twice. An acid test for sure.

Welcome back.

This is my assertion as well, but a friend pointed out that he could be changing the plays at the line (ie: a post down the field is the play call but he goes to the check down instead or completely calls off the routes). Who knows?

 

[on3m@n@rmy]

Re: Re:

Haven't posted in a while. Some thoughts.

In the NFL no one deserves much respect simply for longevity. Just because your last name is Manning may mean a lot to some people, but now when your team is 2-9 it doesn't mean squat. By the numbers, Eli is 24th in QBR, and 15th in passer rating. That puts him on par with Jacoby Brissette. Having said that, it wouldn't shock me to see Eli back starting in a week or two, or in Jacksonville next year, as a transition QB.

As to the Chiefs, I've seen most of their games, and the biggest mistake they have made in my eyes is that they are no longer throwing the ball down the field with any consistency. On many 3rd and long plays, or even 2nd and long plays, instead of doing what worked so well for the first few games in the season, they have gone back to doing things like quick slants, and short WR screens that are almost laterals, even a wildcat on one play. And they're not rolling him out, or moving the pocket much anymore either. Even Tony Dungee said similar, that what they really need to do is put the ball in Alex Smith's hands. If he fails at that, then he really is done in KC. But he wasn't the one who gave up on plays last week.

Historically young QB's don't lead their teams deep in the playoffs. There are exceptions. Marino, Montana, Brady and Roethlesberger. But these QBs are often on veteran teams with an established coach. As powerful as the Eagles look now, can Carson Wentz and Doug Pederson take them all the way?

What happens in Minnesota if, or when, they are in a tight, important game, and Case Keenum blows it, or can't deliver? What happens if they get to the playoffs, and he barely wins a game and looks iffy doing so? As good of a story Bridgewater is, he was still on the rise with room to improve when he got hurt. He's not quite as good (yet) as people remember. But Bradford is on IR and out for the remainder of the regular season. I don't think any coach would bring him back, first game, in the playoffs as a starter.

Are the Chargers for real? I think so. Rivers by the numbers isn't doing great, but he's made some clutch throws, plays and drives this year. That would be something to see a playoff game in lowly Stub Hub stadium, with some 27,000 people crammed in there.

The Patriots keep on winning while no one notices. But their defense still gives up way too many yards. Can the Steelers, or someone else upend them? Maybe, if their defense is enough to at least slow down Brady and co. or in key drives.

Despite the loss to LA and a close win over Washington I still believe in New Orleans. They have the best YPP in the NFL, by far. A number that has actually increased in recent weeks. Upcoming games against Carolina and Atlanta should be fun to watch.

Atlanta is playing very well, and 2nd in YPP, with a decent defense. But they play Minnesota, Carolina, Tampa, and the Saints twice. An acid test for sure.

Welcome back.

This is my assertion as well, but a friend pointed out that he could be changing the plays at the line (ie: a post down the field is the play call but he goes to the check down instead or completely calls off the routes). Who knows?

True who knows right? But based on the stats it looks like an overall plan and I think ALPE (Willkommen!) nailed it saying they aren't passing deep with any consistency now. In the first four games Alex Smith was sacked a total of 16 times, and 20 times after the first 6 games (on pace to match Russell Wilson's sack rate in the first half of the 2016 season). During this past losing streak he's only been getting sacked one to two times per game. So it looks like there has been a concerted effort to reduce his pressures. Now, Pro Bowl guard Ehringer has been out, but he has been out for over a year. So that really can't be used as an excuse unless they have a backup of a backup going on. Long bodied wide receiver Chris Conley is also out.

 

[BullsFan22]

I know I am late to the party....I think it's ridiculous that the Giants are demoting Manning. Why not let him start the games and if it gets out of hand or they want to try the 2nd or 3rd stringers, do it then? The team is dealing with a TON of injuries, no running game and effectively an OL that is average at best. So the guy has to rely on....nothing, almost? I don't see how anything changes for the better if he is benched from now on.

 

[on3m@n@rmy]

I know I am late to the party....I think it's ridiculous that the Giants are demoting Manning. Why not let him start the games and if it gets out of hand or they want to try the 2nd or 3rd stringers, do it then? The team is dealing with a TON of injuries, no running game and effectively an OL that is average at best. So the guy has to rely on....nothing, almost? I don't see how anything changes for the better if he is benched from now on.

From all I've heard from former and current players, former coach, former players now analysts, they all support Eli and are aghast about the decision to bench him. Further, many of those also are saying backup / now starter Gino Smith is a known commodity they say will NOT change anything for the better. And THAT seems to be the GOAL; to ensure it does not get better, to ensure the Giants at least get the 3rd overall pick in the next draft. If the season ended today the Giants would have the 3rd overall pick I think, and there are 3 QBs in the next draft who are considered by most talent evaluators in the business to be legitimate high first round picks. Also, I read somewhere that the decision to bench Eli was the wish of the Giants' owner - probably to ensure getting the 3rd overall pick.

 

[movingtarget]

I know I am late to the party....I think it's ridiculous that the Giants are demoting Manning. Why not let him start the games and if it gets out of hand or they want to try the 2nd or 3rd stringers, do it then? The team is dealing with a TON of injuries, no running game and effectively an OL that is average at best. So the guy has to rely on....nothing, almost? I don't see how anything changes for the better if he is benched from now on.

From all I've heard from former and current players, former coach, former players now analysts, they all support Eli and are aghast about the decision to bench him. Further, many of those also are saying backup / now starter Gino Smith is a known commodity they say will NOT change anything for the better. And THAT seems to be the GOAL; to ensure it does not get better, to ensure the Giants at least get the 3rd overall pick in the next draft. If the season ended today the Giants would have the 3rd overall pick I think, and there are 3 QBs in the next draft who are considered by most talent evaluators in the business to be legitimate high first round picks. Also, I read somewhere that the decision to bench Eli was the wish of the Giants' owner - probably to ensure getting the 3rd overall pick.

I think they will trade Manning. Most people are saying that he shouldn't be benched for Geno which is very different to not being benched at all ! Some analysts also say from a numbers point of view it's been a steady four year decline in his stats. Also heard that Romo was given a look at being the QB for the Jets before he retired but didn't like what he saw !

 

[on3m@n@rmy]

I know I am late to the party....I think it's ridiculous that the Giants are demoting Manning. Why not let him start the games and if it gets out of hand or they want to try the 2nd or 3rd stringers, do it then? The team is dealing with a TON of injuries, no running game and effectively an OL that is average at best. So the guy has to rely on....nothing, almost? I don't see how anything changes for the better if he is benched from now on.

From all I've heard from former and current players, former coach, former players now analysts, they all support Eli and are aghast about the decision to bench him. Further, many of those also are saying backup / now starter Gino Smith is a known commodity they say will NOT change anything for the better. And THAT seems to be the GOAL; to ensure it does not get better, to ensure the Giants at least get the 3rd overall pick in the next draft. If the season ended today the Giants would have the 3rd overall pick I think, and there are 3 QBs in the next draft who are considered by most talent evaluators in the business to be legitimate high first round picks. Also, I read somewhere that the decision to bench Eli was the wish of the Giants' owner - probably to ensure getting the 3rd overall pick.

I think they will trade Manning. Most people are saying that he shouldn't be benched for Geno which is very different to not being benched at all ! Some analysts also say from a numbers point of view it's been a steady four year decline in his stats. Also heard that Romo was given a look at being the QB for the Jets before he retired but didn't like what he saw !

Actually I've heard different analysts say it one way or the other. Those who say he should not be benched at all in almost all cases refer to how serious Eli has been dissed and that with two Super Bowl victories and MVPs has earned the right to finish the season, regardless of who happens to be replacing him. But yes, his skills have declined the padt few years.

Did not hear Romo's take on the Jets. Wise man. He has definitely found his niche.

 

[on3m@n@rmy]

Chiefs sticking with Alex Smith for rest of season, barring injury to Smith. For same ol' reasons; best chance to win, Mahomes not ready to run intricate offense.
http://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/vahe-gregorian/article187613708.html

https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3...m=#fff&p.bgc1m=#0964bf&p.bgc2m=#053a74&sr=amp

 

[Alpe d'Huez]

Good links. Pretty much agree with what they said.

The games I'm looking forward to:

MIN@ATL - I actually like the Falcons here, at home. I think on defense they are going to force Case Keenum to beat them. Can he? I also think the Falcons are going to put the ball in Ryan's hands and attack the Vikings on quick trigger passes, some deep.

KC@NYJ - Intrigued to see how KC's offense, plus Smith, respond.

CAR@NO - Both of these teams are excellent, but both have shown flaws in recent weeks. The Panthers at consistently passing the ball and Cam, the Saints at stopping teams consistently on defense.

TB@GB - If the Packers have any chance for the post season, they must win this game.

PHI@SEA - If one team can stop the Eagles, it might be Seattle, now. Maybe. But I'll stick with the Eagles.

 

[jmdirt]

My money is on SEA...OK I'm posting this after they WON! That's a good win for them, They still need to work on the O line, but the D is looking better again (the new boom are improving already).

Even in a so-so game the Vikings got it done.

RE: KC: Smith and the O didn't lose that game today. The D let the NYJ score 38 points.

 

[movingtarget]

Life in Seattle yet, Did not expect that result. The Patriots and Rams keep rolling on. The Browns keep finding ways to lose. 49ers get their second win. The wheels have well and truly fallen off Kansas and Denver. Been a strange season so far as far as consistency goes. Most teams seem like week to week propositions even the Browns who are one of the more consistent teams ! They lose but not convincingly .......

 

[Nomad]

Re:

My money is on SEA...OK I'm posting this after they WON! That's a good win for them, They still need to work on the O line, but the D is looking better again (the new boom are improving already).

Even in a so-so game the Vikings got it done.

RE: KC: Smith and the O didn't lose that game today. The D let the NYJ score 38 points.

I get it that Smith & the O didn't lose the game - but shouldn't Smith be able to get them in the end zone at the critical moment of the closing minutes of the game? This is the second time in a row he's been unable to deliver when the chips are down. Last week against Buffalo on their last possession with plenty of time left (minute & half or so left in the game) he just needs a TD to tie, and with the extra-point they win. He gets them past midfield and throws a stupid pick...game over. This week with KC down by 7, they get the ball at their own 30 or so with about 2 minutes left and one TO. He effectively moves the offense into the red zone but throws consecutive incompletions on 3rd & 4th down...game over. I've seen time & time again Brady/Brees/Rodgers/Big Ben, etc. mow down the field in the closing minutes with much less time left and either tie or get the game winning TD. Smith could have won the game at Buffalo and sent game into OT against the Jets when the chips were down. There needs to be some accountability there.

The Chiefs are in a complete meltdown losing now 6 out of their last 7 games! What looked like once upon a time ago that they would run away with the division, they're now in a dogfight tied with both the Raiders & Chargers. And Reid may be losing control of this team as Marcus Peters gets an unsportsmanlike conduct at a critical point in the game by chucking the ref's flag into the stands. He walks off to the locker room (not ejected) smirking to the crowd like it's funny or something. And just when you thought you saw enough, he comes back out on the field a few minutes later without his socks on all smug like it's one big joke. I think the joke's on KC. Lol.

https://youtu.be/5gRxi7cNhvM

 

[movingtarget]

Re: Re:

My money is on SEA...OK I'm posting this after they WON! That's a good win for them, They still need to work on the O line, but the D is looking better again (the new boom are improving already).

Even in a so-so game the Vikings got it done.

RE: KC: Smith and the O didn't lose that game today. The D let the NYJ score 38 points.

I get it that Smith & the O didn't lose the game - but shouldn't Smith be able to get them in the end zone at the critical moment of the closing minutes of the game? This is the second time in a row he's been unable to deliver when the chips are down. Last week against Buffalo on their last possession with plenty of time left (minute & half or so left in the game) he just needs a TD to tie, and with the extra-point they win. He gets them past midfield and throws a stupid pick...game over. This week with KC down by 7, they get the ball at their own 30 or so with about 2 minutes left and one TO. He effectively moves the offense into the red zone but throws consecutive incompletions on 3rd & 4th down...game over. I've seen time & time again Brady/Brees/Rodgers/Big Ben, etc. mow down the field in the closing minutes with much less time left and either tie or get the game winning TD. Smith could have won the game at Buffalo and sent game into OT against the Jets when the chips were down. There needs to be some accountability there.

The Chiefs are in a complete meltdown losing now 6 out of their last 7 games! What looked like once upon a time ago that they would run away with the division, they're now in a dogfight tied with both the Raiders & Chargers. And Reid may be losing control of this team as Marcus Peters gets an unsportsmanlike conduct at a critical point in the game by chucking the ref's flag into the stands. He walks off to the locker room (not ejected) smirking to the crowd like it's funny or something. And just when you thought you saw enough, he comes back out on the field a few minutes later without his socks on all smug like it's one big joke. I think the joke's on KC. Lol.

https://youtu.be/5gRxi7cNhvM

Smith reminds me of Cousins. Not a playoff QB or a high pressure one when a play needs to be made. But stats wise, they don't look that bad at least Cousins doesn't not sure about Smith after the last half season. Cousins also seems to have major O Line issues like Luck used to.

 

[BullsFan22]

Great win by the Seahawks. It could be the season changer for them. They are still behind the Rams in the division, but it's still all to play for, especially with the final matchup coming up. Them scoring on the first drive was big. It set the tone. No TD, but a FG (this was also big for Walsh, who has been struggling with inconsistency all season) to put them on the board right away and give the Eagles something to think about was nice. The offense was playing well, kept the penalties in check, no injuries (knock on wood), Wilson with another very good game (those Houdini escapes are impressive!), Graham with another TD, Baldwin with a good game, the guys that came back from injury played well and the defense is still among the best in the NFL, despite no Sherman, Chancellor and Avril. If not for that crazy escape and throw by Wentz, this game could have ended 24-3. The big thing now is getting healthy and staying healthy and making sure the offense does well in the first half, because 2nd half play and Wilson's doggedness is always going to be there.

 

[Irondan]

Great win by the Seahawks. It could be the season changer for them. They are still behind the Rams in the division, but it's still all to play for, especially with the final matchup coming up. Them scoring on the first drive was big. It set the tone. No TD, but a FG (this was also big for Walsh, who has been struggling with inconsistency all season) to put them on the board right away and give the Eagles something to think about was nice. The offense was playing well, kept the penalties in check, no injuries (knock on wood), Wilson with another very good game (those Houdini escapes are impressive!), Graham with another TD, Baldwin with a good game, the guys that came back from injury played well and the defense is still among the best in the NFL, despite no Sherman, Chancellor and Avril. If not for that crazy escape and throw by Wentz, this game could have ended 24-3. The big thing now is getting healthy and staying healthy and making sure the offense does well in the first half, because 2nd half play and Wilson's doggedness is always going to be there.

Yeah, it was good to see a different team get called for the majority of the penalties for a change. Good, disciplined game by the hawks last night. Wilson's playing lights out, MVP football. Still no running game outside of RW but whoever that kid was last night that caught the forward lateral looked pretty good. They need someone besides russ to step up and run.

 

[jmdirt]

Re: Re:

My money is on SEA...OK I'm posting this after they WON! That's a good win for them, They still need to work on the O line, but the D is looking better again (the new boom are improving already).

Even in a so-so game the Vikings got it done.

RE: KC: Smith and the O didn't lose that game today. The D let the NYJ score 38 points.

I get it that Smith & the O didn't lose the game - but shouldn't Smith be able to get them in the end zone at the critical moment of the closing minutes of the game? This is the second time in a row he's been unable to deliver when the chips are down. Last week against Buffalo on their last possession with plenty of time left (minute & half or so left in the game) he just needs a TD to tie, and with the extra-point they win. He gets them past midfield and throws a stupid pick...game over. This week with KC down by 7, they get the ball at their own 30 or so with about 2 minutes left and one TO. He effectively moves the offense into the red zone but throws consecutive incompletions on 3rd & 4th down...game over. I've seen time & time again Brady/Brees/Rodgers/Big Ben, etc. mow down the field in the closing minutes with much less time left and either tie or get the game winning TD. Smith could have won the game at Buffalo and sent game into OT against the Jets when the chips were down. There needs to be some accountability there.

The Chiefs are in a complete meltdown losing now 6 out of their last 7 games! What looked like once upon a time ago that they would run away with the division, they're now in a dogfight tied with both the Raiders & Chargers. And Reid may be losing control of this team as Marcus Peters gets an unsportsmanlike conduct at a critical point in the game by chucking the ref's flag into the stands. He walks off to the locker room (not ejected) smirking to the crowd like it's funny or something. And just when you thought you saw enough, he comes back out on the field a few minutes later without his socks on all smug like it's one big joke. I think the joke's on KC. Lol.

https://youtu.be/5gRxi7cNhvM

Peters is a pain in the ars, but that was just bizarre.

I don't disagree that AS had opportunities two weeks in a row, but when you score 31 points (especially against NYJ...av. ~20 ppg) you have done your job. Even though his last two passes were off the mark, that loss is on the D.

I've never been a fan of Gronk's adult teenager act, but that was dangerous. He should get at least one game suspension and $50K fine.

 

[BullsFan22]

Great win by the Seahawks. It could be the season changer for them. They are still behind the Rams in the division, but it's still all to play for, especially with the final matchup coming up. Them scoring on the first drive was big. It set the tone. No TD, but a FG (this was also big for Walsh, who has been struggling with inconsistency all season) to put them on the board right away and give the Eagles something to think about was nice. The offense was playing well, kept the penalties in check, no injuries (knock on wood), Wilson with another very good game (those Houdini escapes are impressive!), Graham with another TD, Baldwin with a good game, the guys that came back from injury played well and the defense is still among the best in the NFL, despite no Sherman, Chancellor and Avril. If not for that crazy escape and throw by Wentz, this game could have ended 24-3. The big thing now is getting healthy and staying healthy and making sure the offense does well in the first half, because 2nd half play and Wilson's doggedness is always going to be there.

Yeah, it was good to see a different team get called for the majority of the penalties for a change. Good, disciplined game by the hawks last night. Wilson's playing lights out, MVP football. Still no running game outside of RW but whoever that kid was last night that caught the forward lateral looked pretty good. They need someone besides russ to step up and run.

I just watched analysis from Cris Carter and Nick Wright and they said that Russ has accounted for 82% of Seattle's total yards this season and 29/30 TD's!!! That is beyond ridiculous. If he keeps this play up, throws TD's, and Seattle keeps winning, then he needs to be right up there in the MVP race, if not winning it. But yeah, he is doing WAAAAY too much. I thought the running game was decent, but they need more, much more if they are going to go far. Russ's play is great and entertaining, but you always hold your breath because of the huge injury risks. All it takes is one move, one hit, a bad fall and it's good night Irene. They have to finally make some big moves with the OL this offseason. Whatever happens the rest of the way, the Hawks have to invest and try to make things easier for Wilson. You can't expect him to do this for years. Even if he stays healthy, he's going to fatigue and run to the ground (literally and figuratively). He's got a good arm, but if he keeps having less time to stand in the pocket or wait for the play to develop, he's going to be pressured almost all the time. The good thing is right now is that he can move and do things that not many guys in the NFL can do and his receivers and tight ends are improving and the communication seems to be there. Three different guys scores TD's last night and they have to keep using all the weapons they have.

 

[Irondan]

Great win by the Seahawks. It could be the season changer for them. They are still behind the Rams in the division, but it's still all to play for, especially with the final matchup coming up. Them scoring on the first drive was big. It set the tone. No TD, but a FG (this was also big for Walsh, who has been struggling with inconsistency all season) to put them on the board right away and give the Eagles something to think about was nice. The offense was playing well, kept the penalties in check, no injuries (knock on wood), Wilson with another very good game (those Houdini escapes are impressive!), Graham with another TD, Baldwin with a good game, the guys that came back from injury played well and the defense is still among the best in the NFL, despite no Sherman, Chancellor and Avril. If not for that crazy escape and throw by Wentz, this game could have ended 24-3. The big thing now is getting healthy and staying healthy and making sure the offense does well in the first half, because 2nd half play and Wilson's doggedness is always going to be there.

Yeah, it was good to see a different team get called for the majority of the penalties for a change. Good, disciplined game by the hawks last night. Wilson's playing lights out, MVP football. Still no running game outside of RW but whoever that kid was last night that caught the forward lateral looked pretty good. They need someone besides russ to step up and run.

I just watched analysis from Cris Carter and Nick Wright and they said that Russ has accounted for 82% of Seattle's total yards this season and 29/30 TD's!!! That is beyond ridiculous. If he keeps this play up, throws TD's, and Seattle keeps winning, then he needs to be right up there in the MVP race, if not winning it. But yeah, he is doing WAAAAY too much. I thought the running game was decent, but they need more, much more if they are going to go far. Russ's play is great and entertaining, but you always hold your breath because of the huge injury risks. All it takes is one move, one hit, a bad fall and it's good night Irene. They have to finally make some big moves with the OL this offseason. Whatever happens the rest of the way, the Hawks have to invest and try to make things easier for Wilson. You can't expect him to do this for years. Even if he stays healthy, he's going to fatigue and run to the ground (literally and figuratively). He's got a good arm, but if he keeps having less time to stand in the pocket or wait for the play to develop, he's going to be pressured almost all the time. The good thing is right now is that he can move and do things that not many guys in the NFL can do and his receivers and tight ends are improving and the communication seems to be there. Three different guys scores TD's last night and they have to keep using all the weapons they have.

Yeah, Wilson accounts for 82% of the Seahawks offense, but even more striking is Wilson’s play in the second half and more specifically, the fourth quarter. Russell Wilson is putting up historic 4th qtr. numbers!

When they scored 10 points early against the Eagles I knew the game was already won last night. The Wentz fumble at the goal line accounted for 14 points all by itself which up to this point in the season those plays went against Seattle. With Wilson playing the way he is and the defense playing as good as it did, the rest of the league should be on notice.

 

[BullsFan22]

Great win by the Seahawks. It could be the season changer for them. They are still behind the Rams in the division, but it's still all to play for, especially with the final matchup coming up. Them scoring on the first drive was big. It set the tone. No TD, but a FG (this was also big for Walsh, who has been struggling with inconsistency all season) to put them on the board right away and give the Eagles something to think about was nice. The offense was playing well, kept the penalties in check, no injuries (knock on wood), Wilson with another very good game (those Houdini escapes are impressive!), Graham with another TD, Baldwin with a good game, the guys that came back from injury played well and the defense is still among the best in the NFL, despite no Sherman, Chancellor and Avril. If not for that crazy escape and throw by Wentz, this game could have ended 24-3. The big thing now is getting healthy and staying healthy and making sure the offense does well in the first half, because 2nd half play and Wilson's doggedness is always going to be there.

Yeah, it was good to see a different team get called for the majority of the penalties for a change. Good, disciplined game by the hawks last night. Wilson's playing lights out, MVP football. Still no running game outside of RW but whoever that kid was last night that caught the forward lateral looked pretty good. They need someone besides russ to step up and run.

I just watched analysis from Cris Carter and Nick Wright and they said that Russ has accounted for 82% of Seattle's total yards this season and 29/30 TD's!!! That is beyond ridiculous. If he keeps this play up, throws TD's, and Seattle keeps winning, then he needs to be right up there in the MVP race, if not winning it. But yeah, he is doing WAAAAY too much. I thought the running game was decent, but they need more, much more if they are going to go far. Russ's play is great and entertaining, but you always hold your breath because of the huge injury risks. All it takes is one move, one hit, a bad fall and it's good night Irene. They have to finally make some big moves with the OL this offseason. Whatever happens the rest of the way, the Hawks have to invest and try to make things easier for Wilson. You can't expect him to do this for years. Even if he stays healthy, he's going to fatigue and run to the ground (literally and figuratively). He's got a good arm, but if he keeps having less time to stand in the pocket or wait for the play to develop, he's going to be pressured almost all the time. The good thing is right now is that he can move and do things that not many guys in the NFL can do and his receivers and tight ends are improving and the communication seems to be there. Three different guys scores TD's last night and they have to keep using all the weapons they have.

Yeah, Wilson accounts for 82% of the Seahawks offense, but even more striking is Wilson’s play in the second half and more specifically, the fourth quarter. Russell Wilson is putting up historic 4th qtr. numbers!

When they scored 10 points early against the Eagles I knew the game was already won last night. The Wentz fumble at the goal line accounted for 14 points all by itself which up to this point in the season those plays went against Seattle. With Wilson playing the way he is and the defense playing as good as it did, the rest of the league should be on notice.

Agreed. Many things they've struggled with so far this season were improved last night: the early offensive struggles, the penalties, red zone conversions, great work in the secondary (hasn't been a disaster, just inconsistent), the DL was strong and Wentz was pressured quite often, some decent running....

Yep, Wilson's play and the defense is what was the main drive when they won the SB and went to another one a season later. They have to rely on that still and if it's working, then they are a tough out.

Next game vs the Jags should also be interesting. It'll be another challenge, especially heading across the country. I don't know much about the Jags, but seeing the highlights and reading about them a bit seems like they are really rolling now. Their record is 8-4, beat the Steelers 30-9 (!!!), but lost to Jets and Titans and had hard time against the winless Browns plus their schedule hasn't been terribly difficult. Their defense is very good, it seems, so it could, potentially be a struggle and a game that comes down to the last couple plays of the game. Should be interesting.

 

[on3m@n@rmy]

There is no denying what Wilson has done, which justifies his being part of the MVP discussion. But as much as I hate to say it, a good chunk of his production comes because the play breaks down and he then uses his elusiveness to extend plays for yardage. That sort of unplanned productivity probably won't carry the team to the SB, or, as some analysts say, won't carry them far in playoffs if they get that far.

 

[on3m@n@rmy]

Re: Re:

My money is on SEA...OK I'm posting this after they WON! That's a good win for them, They still need to work on the O line, but the D is looking better again (the new boom are improving already).

Even in a so-so game the Vikings got it done.

RE: KC: Smith and the O didn't lose that game today. The D let the NYJ score 38 points.

I get it that Smith & the O didn't lose the game - but shouldn't Smith be able to get them in the end zone at the critical moment of the closing minutes of the game? This is the second time in a row he's been unable to deliver when the chips are down. Last week against Buffalo on their last possession with plenty of time left (minute & half or so left in the game) he just needs a TD to tie, and with the extra-point they win. He gets them past midfield and throws a stupid pick...game over. This week with KC down by 7, they get the ball at their own 30 or so with about 2 minutes left and one TO. He effectively moves the offense into the red zone but throws consecutive incompletions on 3rd & 4th down...game over. I've seen time & time again Brady/Brees/Rodgers/Big Ben, etc. mow down the field in the closing minutes with much less time left and either tie or get the game winning TD. Smith could have won the game at Buffalo and sent game into OT against the Jets when the chips were down. There needs to be some accountability there.

The Chiefs are in a complete meltdown losing now 6 out of their last 7 games! What looked like once upon a time ago that they would run away with the division, they're now in a dogfight tied with both the Raiders & Chargers. And Reid may be losing control of this team as Marcus Peters gets an unsportsmanlike conduct at a critical point in the game by chucking the ref's flag into the stands. He walks off to the locker room (not ejected) smirking to the crowd like it's funny or something. And just when you thought you saw enough, he comes back out on the field a few minutes later without his socks on all smug like it's one big joke. I think the joke's on KC. Lol.

https://youtu.be/5gRxi7cNhvM

First time I ever saw a flag get tossed into the crowd by a player. Peters lost his mind for a sec, but hey, LOL what a souvenir for a fan.

As for KC's redzone production, they rank #28 in the league in red zone scoring. So you bring up a good point. Even Seattle, who's rushing game is suffering, has a much better red zone scoring percentage (ranking ~#18 in the league) than KC does, AND Seattle does that while their run/pass balance is close to what KC's is at about 40% of the plays called are run, & about 60% of the plays called are passes. And that could be part of the problem for both teams ability to score in the red zone, their offense is not balanced as much as you'd like. I'd really like to see what the tendencies are for KC in the red zone. If too predictable, that makes it easier on defenses. With Russ Wilson, and finally a larger dose of TE Jimmy Graham, at least defenses don't know what the H they are going to get vs Seattle in the red zone.

 

[movingtarget]

Great win by the Seahawks. It could be the season changer for them. They are still behind the Rams in the division, but it's still all to play for, especially with the final matchup coming up. Them scoring on the first drive was big. It set the tone. No TD, but a FG (this was also big for Walsh, who has been struggling with inconsistency all season) to put them on the board right away and give the Eagles something to think about was nice. The offense was playing well, kept the penalties in check, no injuries (knock on wood), Wilson with another very good game (those Houdini escapes are impressive!), Graham with another TD, Baldwin with a good game, the guys that came back from injury played well and the defense is still among the best in the NFL, despite no Sherman, Chancellor and Avril. If not for that crazy escape and throw by Wentz, this game could have ended 24-3. The big thing now is getting healthy and staying healthy and making sure the offense does well in the first half, because 2nd half play and Wilson's doggedness is always going to be there.

Yeah, it was good to see a different team get called for the majority of the penalties for a change. Good, disciplined game by the hawks last night. Wilson's playing lights out, MVP football. Still no running game outside of RW but whoever that kid was last night that caught the forward lateral looked pretty good. They need someone besides russ to step up and run.

I just watched analysis from Cris Carter and Nick Wright and they said that Russ has accounted for 82% of Seattle's total yards this season and 29/30 TD's!!! That is beyond ridiculous. If he keeps this play up, throws TD's, and Seattle keeps winning, then he needs to be right up there in the MVP race, if not winning it. But yeah, he is doing WAAAAY too much. I thought the running game was decent, but they need more, much more if they are going to go far. Russ's play is great and entertaining, but you always hold your breath because of the huge injury risks. All it takes is one move, one hit, a bad fall and it's good night Irene. They have to finally make some big moves with the OL this offseason. Whatever happens the rest of the way, the Hawks have to invest and try to make things easier for Wilson. You can't expect him to do this for years. Even if he stays healthy, he's going to fatigue and run to the ground (literally and figuratively). He's got a good arm, but if he keeps having less time to stand in the pocket or wait for the play to develop, he's going to be pressured almost all the time. The good thing is right now is that he can move and do things that not many guys in the NFL can do and his receivers and tight ends are improving and the communication seems to be there. Three different guys scores TD's last night and they have to keep using all the weapons they have.

Yeah, Wilson accounts for 82% of the Seahawks offense, but even more striking is Wilson’s play in the second half and more specifically, the fourth quarter. Russell Wilson is putting up historic 4th qtr. numbers!

When they scored 10 points early against the Eagles I knew the game was already won last night. The Wentz fumble at the goal line accounted for 14 points all by itself which up to this point in the season those plays went against Seattle. With Wilson playing the way he is and the defense playing as good as it did, the rest of the league should be on notice.

Wilson is grossly underrated from any angle, even his toughness especially for his size. There is no Seattle without Wilson. and his ability to scramble and still make a play is second to none, maybe Rodgers on one of his freakish days, Wentz is also getting much better in that regard.

 

[Irondan]

Great win by the Seahawks. It could be the season changer for them. They are still behind the Rams in the division, but it's still all to play for, especially with the final matchup coming up. Them scoring on the first drive was big. It set the tone. No TD, but a FG (this was also big for Walsh, who has been struggling with inconsistency all season) to put them on the board right away and give the Eagles something to think about was nice. The offense was playing well, kept the penalties in check, no injuries (knock on wood), Wilson with another very good game (those Houdini escapes are impressive!), Graham with another TD, Baldwin with a good game, the guys that came back from injury played well and the defense is still among the best in the NFL, despite no Sherman, Chancellor and Avril. If not for that crazy escape and throw by Wentz, this game could have ended 24-3. The big thing now is getting healthy and staying healthy and making sure the offense does well in the first half, because 2nd half play and Wilson's doggedness is always going to be there.

Yeah, it was good to see a different team get called for the majority of the penalties for a change. Good, disciplined game by the hawks last night. Wilson's playing lights out, MVP football. Still no running game outside of RW but whoever that kid was last night that caught the forward lateral looked pretty good. They need someone besides russ to step up and run.

I just watched analysis from Cris Carter and Nick Wright and they said that Russ has accounted for 82% of Seattle's total yards this season and 29/30 TD's!!! That is beyond ridiculous. If he keeps this play up, throws TD's, and Seattle keeps winning, then he needs to be right up there in the MVP race, if not winning it. But yeah, he is doing WAAAAY too much. I thought the running game was decent, but they need more, much more if they are going to go far. Russ's play is great and entertaining, but you always hold your breath because of the huge injury risks. All it takes is one move, one hit, a bad fall and it's good night Irene. They have to finally make some big moves with the OL this offseason. Whatever happens the rest of the way, the Hawks have to invest and try to make things easier for Wilson. You can't expect him to do this for years. Even if he stays healthy, he's going to fatigue and run to the ground (literally and figuratively). He's got a good arm, but if he keeps having less time to stand in the pocket or wait for the play to develop, he's going to be pressured almost all the time. The good thing is right now is that he can move and do things that not many guys in the NFL can do and his receivers and tight ends are improving and the communication seems to be there. Three different guys scores TD's last night and they have to keep using all the weapons they have.

Yeah, Wilson accounts for 82% of the Seahawks offense, but even more striking is Wilson’s play in the second half and more specifically, the fourth quarter. Russell Wilson is putting up historic 4th qtr. numbers!

When they scored 10 points early against the Eagles I knew the game was already won last night. The Wentz fumble at the goal line accounted for 14 points all by itself which up to this point in the season those plays went against Seattle. With Wilson playing the way he is and the defense playing as good as it did, the rest of the league should be on notice.

Wilson is grossly underrated from any angle, even his toughness especially for his size. There is no Seattle without Wilson. and his ability to scramble and still make a play is second to none, maybe Rodgers on one of his freakish days, Wentz is also getting much better in that regard.

That throw by Wentz defied logic!

[flash=640,400]https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5Yez9jlp40IbAMMbClFviIxdoyk=/0x0:505x300/720x0/filters:focal(0x0:505x300):gifv():no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/9803211/escape_artist.0.gif[/flash]

https://www.sbnation.com/2017/12/3/...-threw-51-yard-nelson-agholor-eagles-seahawks

 

[movingtarget]

Yeah that was freakish by Wentz and I have seen him do similar things throughout the season. As much improved as Goff is this season, Wentz has more ability to make the special play.

 

[jmdirt]

http://www.businessinsider.com/video-showing-nfl-player-levitating-is-100-real-2017-11?r=UK&IR=T

 

[movingtarget]

Re:

http://www.businessinsider.com/video-showing-nfl-player-levitating-is-100-real-2017-11?r=UK&IR=T

Ha ha that just looks too smooth !