Colts Preseason Game 3 Vs. the Lions: A Game That Really Matters

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Earlier this week, Ross Tucker and Don Banks from Sports Illustrated had columns discussing why they like and don’t like the preseason respectively. Frankly, the preseason probably falls somewhere in between.

The strike against the preseason is there are simply too many games. With training camp and OTAs, a NFL coaching staff does not need four preseason games to determine their roster. Also, there are the injury issues. No one wants to see their star player go down in a meaningless game, which is why fans usually end up paying regular season prices to watch backup players.

However, the preseason is a necessity. There is no substitute for game experience. Starters need a chance to get in-sync with each other during live competition. Coaches need a chance to evaluate rookies and backups in real game situations.

During the preseason, no game matters more than the third game for two important reasons. First, it’s the game where traditionally the starters stay on the field the longest and fans can get their best barometer of how their team stacks up for the season, even if the final score doesn’t count.  Secondly, it’s the last chance for the reserves to prove they deserve a roster spot before significant cuts are made the following week.

How, then, did the Colts stack up in their 18-17 loss to the Detroit Lions in their third preseason game?

Offense

So much for being multi-dimensional. Peyton Manning and the Colts started with a magnificent opening drive, though the drive was predominantly a passing one. The Colts only attempted one rush. The drive ended with a Manning touchdown pass to Dallas Clark. Manning and Clark were really the story of the offense while they were in the game. Manning was 12 of 15 for 123 yards and a touchdown. Half of Manning’s completions went to Clark, who ended up with 63 yards to go with the one touchdown.

The Colts’ will go as far as Manning takes them, but Clark could very well be the most important receiver. Clark’s versatility allows him to play the tight end or slot position. Clark can even be used in the running game, as a play action fake to him set up a huge Joseph Addai gain on a screen early in the third quarter.

As sharp as the passing game was, the running game sputtered. Addai and rookie Donald Brown combined to gain only 38 yards on 12 carries against the league’s worst rushing defense in 2008. Their 3.1 yards per carry average is a far cry from 6.3 average they had in the first two preseason games.  Addai, however, did have an excellent cut on a key forth down play that set up Brown’s go-ahead touchdown.

Defense

Late in the first quarter, Colts’ color commentator Mark Hermann commented, after the Lions picked up a long third down, that Dante Culpepper was taking what the defense was giving him. Apparently, the Colts defense was feeling very generous today.

The Colts’s bend but don’t break philosophy was in full view today and is evident in the difference in the stat lines for the Lions’ top two quarterbacks, Culpepper and rookie Matthew Stafford, in this game versus their last preseason game against the Cleveland Browns.

Culpepper/Stafford vs. the Browns: 15-for-29 120 yards, 1 interception.

Culpepper/Stafford vs. the Colts: 20-for-31 227, 1 touchdown and 1 interception.

The Colts surrendered over three more yards per pass attempt than the Browns did last week. That may be cause for concern, especially considered Stafford had an under 50% completion rate (he was over 68% against the Colts).

Early on, the Colts let the Lions convert two long third downs by getting burned on screen plays. Screens and draws were plays the Colts’ repeated outran last year. It was disappointing to see the Colts make these same mistakes again.

The rushing defense did not perform much better. While the interior of the defensive line did a tremendous job of limited inside runs, the Lions managed to get the outside and into the second and third levels of the Colts’ defense. Starting running back Kevin Smith managed to get 50 yards on just eight carries, mostly with runs to the outside.

Is there a silver lining? Giving up only 18 points in a game is usually the formula for victory in the NFL. However, the Colts gave up over 400 yards of offense…to the Lions. The score could have been worse had the Lions not squandered some opportunities with penalties and a failed fourth down conversion. The Colts won’t be able to give up 400 yards to teams like the Patriots or Titans and still expect to win.

Special Teams

The Colts’ special teams play today was pretty nondescript. That’s a  good thing if you are talking about kick coverage. The Lions really did not really break a big run against the Colts’ coverage. Of course, it’s not a good thing when your return game is nondescript. The Lions did a good job of covering kicks, but the Colts simply do not have a threat in the return game. While it’s nice that the coverage teams aren’t giving up big plays, it would be very beneficial for the Colts to have returner that could give Manning and the offense some quality field position.

Roster Roundup

With the first major cuts just a few days away, which guys helped or hurt their case for a roster spot?

Stock Rising

Michael Tuiliili. Tuiliili made the defensive highlights on consecutive plays for the Colts in the second half. Facing third and short near the Colts’ goal line, the Lions twice ran the ball up the middle, and twice Tuiliili was there with a big stop on defense. It’s those types of plays that may help Tuiliili land one of the remaining roster spots.

Pierre Garcon. Garcon wasn’t in risk of getting cut. However, Garcon was desperately trailing Austin Collie in the competition for the third receiver. Garcon may not have caught up, but his 63 yard catch and run showed he has a lot of potential.

Stock Falling

Nick Graham & Dante Hughes: These two are starting to look like the odd men out when the cuts come for the secondary. Neither showed play making ability when the Lions made their comeback in the fourth quarter. The Colts’ defensive backs played off the Lions’ receivers throughout the game, but needing a stop, Graham and Hughes did nothing to make themselves stand out. Derrick William’s 40 yard catch against Graham was a particular low light.

In the end, the Colts can come away from this loss with some positives. Manning and his receivers look to be in top form. The offensive line’s pass protection is infinitely better than it was against the Vikings two games ago, and the defensive interior looks like it will be able to slow down the run.

But, too many times in this game there were flash backs to 2008. No running game. A defense that just can’t get off the field and misses too many tackles. With only one preseason game remaining, the Colts still have some work to do before opening the season against division rival Jacksonville.

Cowboys’ Do-Over Spells T-R-O-U-B-L-E

“And I shall not be moved!”

Football at Cowboys’ Stadium is being tweaked with applications from traditional backyard football, tennis, Pinball arcade, mini-golf (or “Putt-Putt”), and video games.

And in Texas, size matters – the bigger, the better. The franchise’s new, Texas-sized video screen/scoreboard has replaced wide receiver Terrell Owens as the team’s main distraction.

The Cowboys’ theme for the 2009 season is “Ours Is Bigger!” “America’s Team” now has “America’s Video Screen!”

The NFL decided not to take any action for this season regarding the Dallas Cowboys’ video scoreboard that hovers 90 feet above the field at their brand new stadium.

90 feet is the same distance as it is from home plate to first base in MLB. It is noteworthy that this massive structure, the mother of all scoreboards, with 30 million light bulbs, spans 60 yards from 20 yard line to 20 yard line, hanging over the field like that spaceship from Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

In a memo sent to every team, Commissioner Roger Goodell said if a punt hits the board or any guidewire, skycam, or any other object at any other stadium, the particular down or play will be replayed, just as the rule stated before Tennessee’s A.J. Traspasso’s punt hit it last week in the first football game at the stadium.

The game clock will also be reset to the time reflected before the “do over.”

Specifically, if a ball strikes the video scoreboard, the play will be dead at that point and the down will be replayed from the previous spot.  No penalties will count, other than personal fouls.

If the officials on the field do not notice the ball striking the video board, the replay assistant will be able to produce  a replay review,  even if the incident occurs outside the final two minutes of each half, the normal time period during which the replay assistant has the power to call upon the referee to assume the position at the portable replay booth.

Then if the replay official does not believe the ball struck the video board but the head coach of either team thinks otherwise, a red-flag challenge will be available.

Oh, oh! This means that if the ball “doinks” the video board with fewer than two minutes remaining in either half and if the replay assistant doesn’t notice the collision, the coaches might not be able to challenge the outcome.

This rule includes all remaining preseason games, all regular-season games, and any postseason games that might be played at the new venue.  Goodell cited Rule 3, Section 1 in taking the unconventional approach of modifying the official playing rules beyond the normal offseason procedure for doing so.

The do-over rule will be in place for the remainder of this season but the issue could be revisited in the future.

The NFL is doing nothing except hoping this issue goes away while ignoring the fact that the “do-over” rule could create several problems.

The NFL adopted a backyard football rule honored for decades: if the football hits a telephone wire, tree branch, etc., just run the play again.

Maybe the league should deploy an additional official for each Cowboys Stadium game with the assignment to follow the ball on each punt.  Like an official in professional tennis, the referee could yell “Fault!”

Perhaps the NFL needs to add replay cameras for all angles that a football may bump the video scoreboard.

Regarding the personal foul penalties, what if the ball hits the board and one of the players on the punt team sees it and stops but a player on the receiving team does not notice it and then drills the opponent with a hard hit?

It will not happen, but what if a quarterback intentionally hits the video scoreboard on a Hail Mary pass play?  Is that intentional grounding or a do-over?

If I was a quarterback playing at Cowboys’ Stadium, I would be tempted to bounce the football off the video board and then run and catch my own pass! I would call it “Immaculate Reception II.”

Similar to the NBA’s slam-dunk competition, the NFL could have a video screen create-a-play competition: “Punt, Pass, and Doink!”

Would intentionally punting into the scoreboard be a nice setup for a fake-punt play?  Wow! Fans will just adore having more replays to endure!

We may witness a game changing, playoff-determining play that will not count.  Imagine having a season-ending injury that may be suffered on a play that will not count.

Well, if the Dallas Cowboys are allowed to have an object of obstruction in play, it is only fair that all of the remaining 31 NFL teams be given the option of having a similar attraction.

For example, my Carolina Panthers could have a replica plane of Orville and Wilbur Wright hanging or floating 90 feet above midfield at Bank of America Stadium.

What will happen if a punt hits Jerry Jones?  Never mind. Let’s think outside of the box and outside of clichés!

I have an alternate, simple solution: give punters the option of kicking the football above and over the video board, not just underneath or around it.

This solution will establish all-time hang-time punt records for the NFL.  The punt returner will automatically signal for a fair-catch, theoretically, reducing injuries.

Want to give punters an incentive to avoid punting into the video board? Assess a delay of game penalty and a $10,000 fine for each kick that bumps the scoreboard.

I read that the Cowboys will raise (and disconnect) the video screen at least once in October for Bono. U2 will perform October 12.  Its stage has to fit.

Why not just leave the screen higher after the concert? The video screen can be raised for a concert but it’s too expensive and too much trouble to raise for a football game?

Oh, now I get it. The ticket holders in the expensive, field-level seats would needlessly strain their necks to see a raised video scoreboard!

The video board is now at eye-level for owners of luxury suites and upper-level ticket holders. On Madden NFL 10, this video board casts a huge shadow, covering almost 60 percent of the football field.

In backyards all across our United States, kids can pretend to be Tony Romo, fumbling the snap, picking the football, back up, backing up to pass, the throw is spiraling high, it hits a tree (a.k.a. the Cowboys’ scoreboard), and it’s a do-over!

On ESPN Primetime highlights, Chris Berman will say “the punter kicks, back…back…back…DOINK! So they then punted again.”

After throwing an interception for a New York Giants touchdown, losing the game for Dallas late in the fourth quarter, Tony Romo explains to the press with a smirk on his face: “Oh, my God! My eyes were, like, distracted and, uh, glued to the Cowboys cheerleaders’ very huge breasts, bouncing on our video board! Talk about instant replay! Review this!”

 

Quote of the Day:
The enraged colonists were mad.
–CJ’s US History Work

 

Galatians 3:28 “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Brought to you by BibleGateway.com. Copyright (C) . All Rights Reserved.

2009 NFC South Predictions: Panthers, Saints Look Good

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 5-11

There are a lot of uncertainties about Tampa Bay this year. 

When Jon Gruden was let go, the Bucs got rid of virtually all of their coaches, and the majority of the veterans who had been playing there for a while. Ike Hilliard, Jeff Garcia, Cato June, Warrick Dunn, Joey Galloway, and Derrick Brooks were the most notable.

This season, it looks like Luke McCown will be the starting quarterback. McCown doesn’t have a whole lot of experience, but back in 2007 he played games and looked good. 

The Bucs are in a rebuilding year right now, and I wouldn’t expect to see McCown behind center for more than a year or so. With the 17th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, Tampa Bay took quarterback Josh Freeman from Kansas State. If all goes well, Freeman will be the future at quarterback in Tampa. 

One aspect of the Buccaneers that I like is their running game. With Earnest Graham and Derrick Ward in the backfield, Tampa Bay’s running should pick up the slack for a passing game that may not be that great. And if Cadillac Williams is healthy, that should make them even better. 

It’s going to take a few years for the Bucs to get back to the top of the South. 

3. Atlanta Falcons: 7-9

Matt Ryan had a phenomenal rookie season, Michael Turner was one of the best running backs in the league, and Mike Smith did a terrific job in his first year as a head coach.

Things won’t be so peachy this year for the Falcons. 

Some people seem to believe that the NFL strength of schedule doesn’t mean a whole lot, but for Atlanta this year, it definitely does. They’ll play both the NFC East and AFC East, not to mention the NFC South is talented also. 

I’m not knocking the Falcon’s talent, because Ryan and Turner will both probably have good years, and they added Tony Gonzalez. But my biggest concern is that this won’t be enough.

It won’t be enough because Atlanta’s defense isn’t going to be very special this year. Up-and-coming cornerback Domonique Foxworth signed a four-year deal with Baltimore this offseason, leaving the Falcons’ secondary looking bleak. 

John Abraham will provide some leadership for a defense that is pretty young and looking to get better. 

2. New Orleans Saints: 10-6

With one of the best (if not the best) offenses in the NFL, the New Orleans Saints should contend for the NFC South this year. 

Drew Brees should have another big year, and he has a great group to throw to in Lance Moore, Marques Colston, and Jeremy Shockey at tight end.

It seems to be a foregone conclusion that Brees will be a Pro Bowler this year, and he’ll probably throw for around 4,000 yards and about 30 touchdowns. What we don’t know about the Saints is if their running game will be rejuvenated in ’09.

Reggie Bush has dealt with injuries over the last two seasons, but it appears that he’s nearly healthy again after having surgery this offseason. I really think that this is the season that Bush will need to return to his rookie season form in order for New Orleans to make the playoffs, let alone have a winning record. 

Pierre Thomas provided the Saints with a back-up running back to fall back on when Bush got hurt last year. In five starts, Thomas rushed for nine touchdowns and 625 yards.

Similar to the Atlanta Falcons, the Saints rely heavily on their offense and struggle on the defensive side of the ball. While New Orleans led the NFL in both total offense and passing in 2008, they finished 23rd in defense. 

The D will be better this year. Cornerback Malcolm Jenkins has a year of experience under his belt. New Orleans also has Jonathan Vilma, and newcomer Darren Sharper to turn to. This unit could be revamped this season.

I like the Saints to win 10.

1. Carolina Panthers: 11-5

After an early exit from the postseason in 2008, I feel like the Panthers have something to prove this year—they can win in the regular season and the playoffs.

DeAngelo Williams broke out last season with 20 touchdowns and 1,600 yards, and he should be one of the top running backs in the NFL this season. Williams is only entering his fourth year in the league, and has great hand, not fumbling once last season. Throw Jake Delhomme and Steve Smith in with Williams and you’re set.

The Panthers’ defense was a bit of a problem last season. They addressed that problem this offseason by adding defensive coordinator Ron Meeks, who spent the last seven seasons in Indianapolis. 

Meeks was partially responsible for the development of Dwight Freeney, and I could see him doing the same with another young defensive end in rookie Everette Brown. Brown will spend time behind Julius Peppers which can’t hurt his development either. 

Carolina is one of the most well-rounded teams in the NFL this year as well. They have a top-five running back (and a solid back-up in Jonathan Stewart), a reliable quarterback, and a possibly revamped defense.

I think the Panthers have what it takes to edge out the Saints by a slim margin. 

 

Report: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Name Byron Leftwich Starting Quarterback

As reported earlier in the week, it was thought that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would make a decision concerning their starting quarterback this week.

Well, as was predicted, a starter was named for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers today.

Veteran quarterback Byron Leftwich was named the starter, after the coaching staff saw more of him in last nights preseason game against the Miami Dolphins.

Leftwich, who was signed as a free agent from the Pittsburgh Steelers last season, was brought in by Raheem Morris to fight for the starting position.

The decision on Leftwich only leaves one quarterback competition left in the NFL, which is the Cleveland Browns.

Matt Miselis is an NFL writer for BleacherReport.com

Miami Dolphins Waive Four As Preseason Winds Down

As I predicted in my Dolphins-Bucs game observations, the Dolphins have trimmed a few players off their roster despite already being well under the looming 75-man cut-down limit. Waived are wide receiver Anthony Armstrong, nose tackle Louis Ellis placekicker Connor Barth, while fullback Joe Kowalewski has been waived/injured.

The Dolphins’ active roster now stands at just 66 players—14 under the current 80-man limit. Teams must cut down to 75 players by Sept. 1, and to the final 53 players on Sept. 5. The Dolphins won’t need to take any action until that final cut day, though we could see more sporadic moves such as these between now and then.

Anthony Armstrong

After initially surviving last year’s final cuts (until Brandon London was claimed off waivers), second-year receiver Anthony Armstrong has failed to last until the first round of cuts in 2009.

A burner who is lacking in the bulk department at 5-11 and 175 pounds, Armstrong drew rave reviews from some beat writers during minicamps but faded in training camp. The Dolphins clearly didn’t give him much of a chance when it came to playing in the preseason and he was stuck on the bottom of the depth chart all August.

Armstrong has two years of practice squad eligibility remaining, but it remains to be seen if either party is interested in such a reunion. Given how early the Dolphins cut him this year and the fact that Armstrong might be bitter about his lack of opportunity, I suspect this split might be permanent.

Armstrong is a solid deep threat and could land on another team’s practice squad, but I don’t know how much of a future he has at the NFL level. It’s a shame the Arena league folded, because he definitely had the tools to be a stud there. If I were him, I’d give the CFL or UFL a shot. He has the skills to play pro ball, even if it’s not at the highest level.

Louis Ellis

Out of the four transactions today, this was the one that surprised me the most. When the Dolphins waived Joe Cohen last week, I thought Ellis was a shoo-in for a practice squad spot. Granted that still could happen, but I would imagine if you liked a guy for the practice squad you’d at least keep him until final cuts.

(For reference, all seven of Miami’s initial 2008 practice squad players that attempted camp with the team survived the first wave of cuts, so this does not bode well for Ellis.)

Ellis dominated at Division II Shaw University, but the NFL is a whole different ballgame and it’s no surprise that Ellis wasn’t ready yet. I do like his potential though, and I’d like to see him back on the practice squad as a developmental guy. Miami doesn’t have an immediate need at nose tackle, but they’ll need one soon and a young, long-term guy is high on the wishlist.

Connor Barth

Barth was brought in to light a fire under second-year kicker Dan Carpenter, who was struggling in camp after a strong showing as a rookie in 2008. Barth got into a few preseason games with Miami, going 2-for-2 on field goals and 2-for-2 on extra points. Unfortunately for Barth, the incumbent Carpenter was just as good and has a slightly stronger leg.

It was worth a shot for the Dolphins to bring in another leg to challenge Carpenter, but in the end Barth was unable to lift himself high enough to force the Dolphins to make a change. Miami should be fine with Carpenter in 2009, and Barth should get some looks from other NFL teams down the road. He’s also a candidate to re-sign with Miami if Carpenter were to be injured during the regular season.

Joe Kowalewski

Miami brought in Kowalewski to share reps with starter Lousaka Polite during camp after Chris Brown was waived, but he really never had a shot at making the team. The Dolphins typically only keep one fullback on the active roster, and Polite wasn’t going anywhere.

Because Kowalewski was waived/injured, he’ll have to pass through waivers before reverting to the Dolphins’ injured reserve list. His injury is likely minor and he should be let go with an injury settlement in the coming days.

Kowalewski is solid backup fullback material and would have had a more significant pro career to date if he hadn’t lost his practice squad eligibility during his time with the New York Jets. It’s unknown at this point if Kowalewski impressed the Dolphins enough to garner consideration for re-signing if Polite were to be injured during the regular season.

 

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Chris Nelson is a journalism major at Georgia State University. He operates his own Miami Dolphins blog, which can be found here.

Ten Commandments Of Tailgating

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

As the summer turns to fall, and the NFL and NCAA Football season start to commence, the planning period begins for an equally important event; the tailgate. As someone who has spent years in various tailgates for both college and the NFL, I have been able to amass a set of commandments, designed for ultimate tailgate success.

Please keep in mind, not everyone will be able to follow these commandments, for one reason or another, and in today’s financial situations, it’s understandable. However, if you follow as many as possible, your tailgate will quickly gain fame as one of the top tailgates in your section.

The Ten Commandments Of Tailgating

Commandment 1: Thou Shalt Have A Big Enough Vehicle

Granted, SUVs are gas guzzlers and expensive. Therefore, if this commandment cannot be met, but multiple people can use small cars to meet the same objective, then you are in the clear. The main purpose of this commandment is so your tailgate can have all of the necessary items, without risk of forgetting anything. A truly successful tailgate has items such as tables, chairs, television, tents for shade, coolers, the food and drinks, and of course, the grill. Having all these items, and more as you see fit, guarantees a proper tailgate setup and is a crucial element in a successful tailgate.

Again, if you can do this with multiple smaller cars, then you still meet the essential needs of the commandment. Working together with friends is important, which leads to the next commandment.

Commandment 2: Thou Shalt Share The Grilling Duties

Some people can’t bring a grill, and choose to bring in trays of food from their local grocery store. That is an acceptable replacement for this commandment. However, nothing says tailgate like a fired up grill with some burgers and dogs. I’ve seen tailgates go further, with chicken, steak, kabobs, the list is endless! A truly successful tailgate has great food, and nothing says great food like some BBQ. However, the responsibilities of cooking are an important, time honored task, that should not be taken lightly. But don’t let one person be stuck working the grill for two or three hours. Share the responsibility among your best grillers (they’ll know who they are). This gives everyone who wants to cook a chance, and lets everyone have ample time to mingle without being behind a grill.

Commandment 3: Thou Shalt Bring Enough Food and Drink

Nothing ruins a good tailgate like running out of food or drink. With stadium concessions already at premium prices, tailgaters need to get their fill before entering the stadium. Following that, with most, if not all stadiums no where close to purchasing extra food or drink (some college stadiums will have gas stations nearby), when you run out, your out of luck. Always make sure you know ahead of time the number of people in your tailgate, and purchase above and beyond what you need, just as a precaution. Besides, if there is extra, you can always post-tailgate while waiting for traffic to dissipate after the game. It’s win-win!

Commandment 4: Thou Shalt Properly Prepare For All Situations

It’s a tailgaters dream that every football game is 75 degrees and sunny with a cool breeze, but face it, that’s an imperfect reality. The beginning of the season can have extremely hot and humid temperatures, while showers and rain storms are always a reality. In the north, as the fall turns to winter, cooler temperatures can quickly chill out a tailgate. Therefore, do your research. A day or two before the game, research the weather. If it’s going to be hot, pack hats, sunglasses, and plenty of tents for shade. If it will be raining, have the tents to keep you dry. As it gets cooler, have blankets and jackets available, and maybe a space heater if possible. A great tailgater is like a boy scout, always prepared.

Commandment 5: Thou Shalt Get There Early

Setting up a tailgate takes time, as does shutting it down, and no one wants a good time to end early. Therefore, getting to your tailgate two to three hours prior to the game gives you enough time to set up (15-20 minutes), enjoy yourselves (hour and a half to two hours), and clean up (15-20 minutes) before making your way to the stadium. Of course, this is adjustable based on how far a trek you must make prior to the game starting. That’s why this commandment goes hand in hand with:

Commandment 6: Thou Shalt Be Willing To Pay For Parking

For season ticket holders and college football boosters, this part is null for you, because where you park is based on where your seats are, what level you are, etc. Basically, that part of the equation is on you. For the rest of society, who maybe attend one or two games, you need to make the most of it. By following the fifth commandment, you’re already at the game early enough that you should be able to find a decent parking spot. However, with a better spot comes a better price. I’ve seen parking prices from $5 to $20, and as the saying goes, you get what you pay for. If this is your one game of the year, go the extra mile, fork over the dough, and watch your tailgate be a success.

Commandment 7: Thou Shalt Keep The Kids Entertained

What kid doesn’t enjoy spending quality time with their family, rooting for the same team as mom and dad? A family day at the stadium can be a great time, but a kid can’t spend the entire two-three hour period eating and sitting around. This is where entertainment plays a crucial piece. A TV is nice, but you’ll have the game on (more on that one later), so what other options are there? Some stadiums offer outside entertainment for kids (be advised, this may cost money, and will most likely force you to leave the tailgate, if you came with other friends and their families). Another option is to bring entertainment with you. A football can be a great form of entertainment. Depending on where you’re located, a small game among the kids can keep them busy for an hour on their own. It really depends on the kids and their age, but don’t forget about them.

Commandment 8: Thou Shalt Have A TV With The Game On

A TV is a crucial piece to the tailgating puzzle. Obviously, if one can’t afford or doesn’t have room to bring a TV, then a radio will suffice. The truly successful tailgates have some form of a television with a game showing. The more extreme ones have multiple televisions with satellite dishes everywhere. Whatever your pleasure (and financial level is), having a TV lets the hardcore fans keep in touch with other interesting games. A four o’clock NFL start means missing all of the one o’clock games, unless prepared with a television.

Commandment 9: Thou Shalt Not Be Obnoxious

This commandment, and the next one, is important in multiple areas. For this one, obnoxious holds different contexts. When finding a parking spot, park in your area, don’t take up multiple spots and ruin the experience for someone else. If fans from the opposing team walk by, good-natured ribbing can be appropriate at some points, but don’t fire a profanity laced tirade at them. They have every right to root for their team too. Being a respectful person overall can make the tailgating experience that much more enjoyable for all parties involved.

Commandment 10: Thou Shalt Party Responsibly

Arguably the most important commandment, this one needs to be followed above all. Drink plenty of water so you’re not dehydrated or too imbibed with alcohol. Have a designated driver decided on beforehand, and bring plenty of soda and water for them and others (going back to food and drink). Clean up after yourselves. Most importantly though, have a good time. Tailgating is an enjoyable experience for all, and no one wants to be the idiot that ruined the fun for everyone else.

With football season upon us, take these commandments and go forth, and find success in your tailgating experiences throughout the season.

Expert Analysis: NFL ’09 Season Predictions AFC

AFC WEST

San Diego. (8-8):

After an offseason of continuous overrated media, the San Diego Chargers of 8-8 look to repeat.

But some…. are starting to realize the other teams lurking in this division.  Keep in mind, the ‘San Diego Super Chargers’ were only 8-8 last season and barely sneaked out a comeback season, to win against the Broncos in Wk 17.  They were 4-8 last season, and at the beginning of the season, the media suggested San Diego as a top-prospect for the super bowl.  It seems that the media always has to give southern California special treatment, and talk endlessly about how great USC and San Diego is.

To be frank, I honestly don’t see them securely winning the division.

 

Denver (8-8):

A lot of speculation has gone on in the offseason for Denver. I think they’ve seen enough. The whole Jay Cutler/Brandon Marshall fiasco is just another distraction. Can Denver win the division?  No one knows the answer, because there are too many questions, too many distractions, and not enough answers!

Another issue that it seems no one is talking about is running backs.  A lot of teams now are shooting for the ‘1-2 running back tandem’ that seems to work for every team that has tried it – Tennessee, Carolina, and New Orleans – just to name a few.

But Denver’s running back position is remarkable. If you’re a Broncos fan – you’d like to think of it as just a team who’s prepared, and likes to have backups. It appears they took it a little bit further.

Statistics:

RB Ryan Torain          15 CAR, 69 YDS – (But looks to have a breakout season.)

RB LaMont Jordan      80 CAR, 363 YDS 4 TD, 4.8 AVG (NE)

FB Peyton Hills           68 CAR, 343 YDS, 5 TD, 5.0 AVG

RB Selvin Young         61 CAR, 303 YDS, 1 TD, 5.5 AVG

RB Andre Hall             35 CAR, 144 YDS, 8.0 AVG

RB Correll Buckhalter 76 CAR, 369 YDS, 2 TD, 4.9 AVG (PHI)

In addition to Darius Walker who appears to just be a late bloomer.

You have all of these guys, you obviously need a quarterback for depth, and a defense with a lot of missing holes, and you go and draft a running back in the first round?

Might I suggest a guide for this team – ‘How To Have A Quarterback, A Defense, And Not To Have 30 Running backs For Dummies’.

(Before the off-season)

I thought this team had a chance to win the AFC West.

Now, it looks like they’ll battle for second. This division will be a lot closer and more competitive than last year’s AFC West.

 

Oakland (5-11):

I’d like to see a turn around season from the Raiders.  Wouldn’t you?  Just because most people in general, don’t like to see something get obliterated over and over – unless they did something wrongfully so.  It looks like they never have a chance.

But they really do, they always have.  Year, after year, you make improvements, sooner or later you’re going to be at the top, and stay up there.  Although they have had some great years, in recent years they have not.  Now normally I would just end the conversation with Oakland is worst team in this division.  But I can’t help but think this team actually does have a chance.  Just with the unexpected flukes that happen throughout the season, and a few of their elite players that might get this team up to stability.

 

Kansas City (2-14)

The 2008 of Miami.  Surprise team comes to mind.  A much improved O-Line, a new quarterback added to the equation that was a nobody a year ago.  QB Matt Cassel has the ability to be an elite quarterback, and leader of a team that can make it to the playoffs.  I believe their time is now.  Defense is in place, and this team is ready to roll.

RECAP AFC West:

SD – over-rated

DEN – confusion???

OAK – How ‘bad’ do they want a comeback season for the decade?

KC – Surprise team, contention for ’09 playoffs

 

AFC NORTH

Pittsburgh (12-4):

Not too much talk is going around about Pittsburgh this off-season.  Could it be because we already know they’re destined to repeat?  This team has excelled in almost every category known to man.  They’re not set on an offensive-scheme, high-flying passing, big runs, or just based on a tough defense. A super-bowl caliber team usually is lacking in one area, but the area that they are good in, they’re usually the best. 

What comes to mind when you think of the Pittsburgh Steelers?

Pittsburgh is unbearably cold, black and gold, old-style, gridiron, tough defensive football.                  Ready to plow the ball right out of your hands.  Look – this team runs the ball, but they have two tremendous wide outs.  They have tough run-stoppers up front, but they’ll pick one off in the secondary, or make you drop to pieces by their hard-hitting safety Troy Polamalu.

When you break this team up, they don’t like that great; they look good, but not like a super bowl team.  Take a look at them as a team, and they are undoubtedly a playoff contender.  And if anything, they’ve improved in the offseason, so it makes it that much tougher to contend for a playoff spot.

 

Baltimore (11-5):

Joe Flacco is into his second season, and though he ‘looked spectacular last season’, he had all the pieces, so it wasn’t too much effort on him, not like it will be for Matthew Stafford and the Lions, should Stafford be the starter.

Baltimore has a 1-2 RB tandem that is working very well with Ray Rice and Willis McGahee, in addition to Full Back Le’Ron McClain that had around a 1,000 yds last season – that’s uncanny for a full back!

Their Defensive Line blows my mind at times, secondary is extraordinary and their OL is relentless.

They need a WR.  So look for them to pick up a wideout before the beginning of the regular season.

Baltimore – without question, will battle it out again with Pittsburgh for first place, with a hint of a nuisance from 3^rd place contender Cincinnati.

 

Cincinnati (4-11-1):

From a year ago, Cincinnati has made a lot of progress.  I believe they have the tools to contend with this division and the rest of the league but not enough to move past a wildcard spot.

I’d like to see Cincinnati have a chance at a playoff run.  They have the pieces; they just need to put them together.  They’ll have to contend with Jacksonville, N.Y. Jets, Buffalo, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Houston, and Denver.

 

Cleveland (4-12):

If there’s one thing Cleveland does have is an incredible set of wide receivers.  With potential starters Rookie Brian Robiskie, Mohammad Massaquoi, potential superstar Braylon Edwards, that has gotten a few mishaps keep him from being a huge threat in the open field.  Wide out Joshua Cribbs is way under-rated.  This guy is very fast; Punt Returner, Returns kicks with precision, and catches his fair share of receptions.  He’s a triple threat, much like Chicago Bear’s wideout Devin Hester.

Uncanny speed, a triple-threat.  Talent, work ethic, he comes close to making the Top 50 Best Wide Receivers in the NFL.  Watch out for this kid.  Cleveland had an unfortunate incident w/ wide receiver Donte’ Stallworth, but with the additions of Mike Furrey and Syndric Steptoe, Derek Anderson/Brady Quinn should always have a man open, and should be fresh on the field.

Their OL is improved, and a few add-ons here and there, but not enough to have the successful ’07 season, they’re looking for.

 

RECAP AFC North

PIT – High expectations are here to stay.

BAL – Follow the leader. 

CIN – Wildcard Potential?

CLE – Cleveland ’07 or ’08? Typical Cleveland is evident.

 

AFC SOUTH

Tennessee (13-3):

Two things come to mind.  1) Not going to repeat. It’s not going to happen.  2) How did this team go    13-3 last year?  So why not?  The Quarterback attention is a big distraction, and what if Vince Young isn’t the superstar we saw forming in the first two seasons, does this mean he is to be traded?  Is he mature/ready enough to take over this team, because Kerry Collins is NOT a long-term solution?  He’s a great quarterback, but he’s not the long term solution for this franchise.

Another issue is with the wide receivers.  There is no one that jumps off the page, or even makes you glance twice.  Rookie Kenny Britt alongside, Justin Gage, and Nate Washington? Really?  Get some receivers; you have to mix up your game plan.  That being said, their running game was a sure success, with Chris Johnson, having games of 300 yards+ is part of the ‘wow’ factor.  Being accompanied by running back Lendale White, and rookie Javon Ringer – you can’t go wrong.  Though their team is a little more on the ‘experienced’ side, they are full of potential.  But don’t disregard the fact that their division has gone from hard-nose competitive, to division where one mistake, ruins your entire season.

Indianapolis (12-4):

Aside from this division getting ‘that much harder,’ Indianapolis is still one of the premier teams in this league.  As long as Peyton Manning is still in Indy, they’ll stay that way.  Still thought of as one of the best quarterbacks in the league, as expected – Peyton Manning has to regroup his guys and take this team back to the playoffs!  With the absence of the extremely talented wide out, Marvin Harrison, head coach Tony Dungi, and a few other notables, the Colts might be in trouble.  So who will take their place, should this happen…?

 

Houston (8-8):

This team is lacking in only one difference that the ’07 of Miami.  They were actually good last season.  They just blew it at the end, much like Dallas’ situation.  They both have tough divisions, where any team is on the verge of falling off the edge.

Houston excites me.  Maybe it’s the city feel and that I love the versatility to Houston’s surroundings.  But there is something special to this team that is coming this season like a big round ball chasing you in the Indiana Jones movie!  Count on Houston to make the playoffs, because I assure you they will.  Their ‘Triangle’ is in store.  The triangle referring to a great QB, RB, and WR.  Unless you’re Denver with a terrible defense, then you should at minimal, be a playoff contender.

 

Jacksonville (5-11):

No one knows what to expect out Jacksonville.  This team also refers to another team- the Cleveland Browns.  Difficult division and even better expectations for this season.  Both teams also had a great 07 season, but a reckless season in 2008.  A bloody fantastic runningback, Maurice Jones-Drew, being accompanied by a great OLine.  The wide receiver side is more on the over-experienced, as in already had their best days, or on the inexperienced side, with little experience and not playmakers yet. 

In order to run in this division, you have got to have talent, a great set of coaches, a quarterback with leadership, a tough defensive and the passion and creativity to set yourself apart.  For me, they have not done that.  They are not a top team.  As heard from Head Coach Jack Del Rio, “we are not rebuilding, we have a reset going”.  Which further expresses my point, it will be a little while until Jacksonville is ready to grab hold, and take control.

 

RECAP AFC South

TEN – Not a playoff team?

IND – Might not have a playoff spot to contend with?

HOU – Definite playoff potential, huge improvements.

JAC – Not enough snap

 

AFC EAST

Miami (11-5):

Miami – Most noted for their Wildcat offense that worked extremely well last season, in addition to a killer comeback season from 2008.  Word has gone around, that they will add more features to make the Wildcat offense even more efficient.  This should be known as the Dolphin. 

An aggressive defense, strong trio of receivers, not accounting for Tight Ends Anthony Fasano and David Martin, in addition to a growing Offensive, with much potential.  Pat White will help take some the weight off of Chad Pennington’s shoulders, and should have high value in the new Wildcat format.            A few questionable draft decisions jump off the page, but they’re talented players, nonetheless, and should be ready to get out on the field.

A mind-blowing trio of statistics at the WR position, with Ted Ginn Jr. with (56) catches, Greg Camarillo with (55) and Davone Bess with (54) receptions, in last year’s season.  Did they plan this?  I mean because that would be hard to do, keeping that in mind throughout the season, and into the playoffs.  It just appears to be a joke. 

Then, why would you draft two wide receivers in the 3^rd round and 4^th round, Patrick Turner and Brian Hartline?  It just seems a little unnecessary.  In addition, drafting two cornerbacks, the first round – Vontae Davis, and in the second round with Sean Smith, maybe they’re going on duos and trios, and just trying to fool everybody with their creativity.

Either way, whatever they’re doing – it seems to be working, so if it works again, watch what Miami is doing, because they’re doing something right.  A tough season to predict, but it’s safe to say they’re a playoff contender, and should be in the playoffs.

 

New England (11-5):

“To be so close, and not make it.”  Your quarterback, one of the best in the NFL – gets injured in the first half of the first game, of the season is not something easy to get used to.  Sure enough, Matt Cassel was able to take control, and lead his team to a great season, just a disappointing end.

Matt Cassel, now a KC Chief, should also be a top contender in the NFL in the ’09 season.  Cassel won’t have all the weapons he had in New England, but he’ll be on a good team – with great potential.

To be honest, New England has all the cards.  They don’t really have any flaws at any position.          That’s a sign of a great team. 

N.Y. Jets (9-7):

Join the club.  Join the club for Favre leaving you, deciding to retire, and then head back into the league.  Nobody really knows if this is Favre’s last season.  Tons of experience has its pros and cons, and he has a team to beat with Minnesota.

Betrayal?

Indecisive thinking?

Or wanting the ‘right’ team?

Whatever the issue was, he is on a super bowl caliber team and ready to bust Green Bay w/ revenge.  That isn’t the only reason he came back, but it’s a big one.  Onto the Jets:

Look, the Jet’s fans are great, they really are, they love their team (most of them do) and let’s face it they will be a team to contend with.  But are the N.Y. Jets good enough to make it into the playoffs?  No. They’re not.  They do have a strong Defensive line, a strong set of sneaky players running the secondary, but their negatives outweigh the positives – in order to make the playoffs.  Now, as far as having a good season, yes, stack that deck in the Jet’s favor. 

The AFC is too difficult this season.  A hard-working Offensive Line, and a great set of runners, ready to pound it down your throat.  But for hanging with the big dogs, there’s not enough ammunition. Look for 9-7/10-6.  The New England Pats were 11-5 last season, and didn’t make it, but 8-8 of San Diego did.  A lil more sense and less about location. 

The J-E-T-S, JETS! JETS! JETS! Have a new QB in town, and their won’t be near as much weight on his shoulder as that of Matthew Stafford, due to having a good OL, and a running game.                                   A 10-6 season for the N.Y. Jets.

 

Buffalo (7-9):

I think you know where I’m headed.  Let’s start with the positives. 

Great running game potential, the O Line will be an asset, and Quarterback Trent Edwards will have a great group of wide receivers to throw to, including Lee Evans who is at his best. T.O. – yet on another team.  Maybe he likes traveling?  Josh Reed and Roscoe Parrish in the slot, and to help back them up, and then you also have Steve Johnson and James Hardy ready to make a case for them.  The best asset of all will be the D Line with DE – Aaron Maybin and Ryan Denny, DT – Kyle Williams, Marcus Stroud, and Spencer Johnson.  (DE Back-ups – Chris Kelsay, Aaron Schobel, and Copeland Bryan).        Ready to bring the heat at the D Line, the secondary is heating up as well.  

Starters: CB Terrence McGee, Leodis McKelvin, S Jarius Byrd, Donte Whitner                                           Other Defensive backs: Ko Simpson, Drayton Florence, Ashton Youboty, Bryan Scott, George Wilson

Look for this division to exceed your highest expectations.                                                                             N.Y. Jets and Buffalo could make it – in any other division.

They’re both great teams, but will not make the playoffs. 

                                                                                                                                                                                       Here’s a recap of my analysis – Illustrating the ’09 AFC Playoff Prediction Picture                       

New England should contend for the win in the East, Tennessee and Houston will battle for the South, Pittsburgh with the North division and San Diego/Kansas City for the West.     

1)      Pittsburgh

2)      New England

3)      Tennessee/Houston

4)      San Diego

5)      Baltimore 

6)      Tennessee / Houston / Kansas City / Indianapolis

I appreciate your support, questions, comments, ect.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this article!  Feel free to comment!  

Thanks!                                                              

 

The Lions Will Be a Different Team Once the Regular Season Begins

A common perception is that the NFL preseason is irrelevant. This could not be more true.

 

Preseason games don’t matter.

 

We’ve all heard that statement echoed time and time again by media members and former NFL players.

 

Yet every August, people start talking about “what to look for” during the four games of irrelevance, and the NFL Live crew starts breaking down offensive schemes and position battles.

 

Take this question for example: How does Matthew Stafford look in the Lions’ offense?

 

Unless you’ve been to a Lions practice, specifically the portion of the Lions practice which is closed to fans and limited to the media, you haven’t seen the Lions’ offense.

 

Through two games of the preseason, Scott Linehan has run the most basic offense possible. He will continue to do so for the final game, as well. Same goes for Gunter Cunningham on the defensive side of the ball.

 

Jim Schwartz doesn’t want any useful film to be available on his team for the first regular season game.

 

Schwartz told media members that his main interest during the preseason was to evaluate his team’s basic football skills: speed, strength, composure, and so on.

 

All the real preparation for opening week against the New Orleans Saints is happening on the practice field, not during preseason games.

 

It was announced that Daunte Culpepper will “begin” Detroit’s preseason game against Indianapolis today. Schwartz also announced a few other players who will “begin” the game. The coaching staff still insists there is no depth chart and no starters.

 

Nonsense.

 

Believe me, there is a very clear idea of who will be starting, who will be rotating in throughout the games, and who will be wearing baseball caps on the sidelines for the Lions this season.

 

What is still at stake during the remaining two weeks of preseason is the final eight or so roster spots. Competition is still underway for the final two wide receiver spots, along with the linebacker core and secondary.

 

Something else to keep an eye on—through a somewhat unreliable source, a rumor has surfaced that the Lions might bring in former wide receiver and second overall draft pick Charles Rogers for a workout. That, of course, is when and if Rogers clears any pending legal issues and has his fitness back under control.

 

Rogers was recently timed running the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds. Coming out of Michigan State, his time was at 4.3.

Redskins’ Latest: Preseason News and Notes

For the most part, preseason games are meaningless.

 

However, if you’re a team with great expectations and question marks abound, preseason games (especially the third game, aka the dress rehearsal for the regular season) can clarify the murky view of the season ahead.

 

So what did Redskins fans learn about their team in last night’s 27-24 home loss to the New England Patriots? Here are a few items observed about the questions that insightful Skins fans were looking to have answered entering the game:

 

Redskins coach Jim Zorn had to get a solid performance out if his quarterback Jason Campbell against a formidable opponent in the New England Patriots. Campbell responded by leading the team on three impressive scoring drives, finishing 13-for-22 and 209-yards passing in little over a half. Mission accomplished!

 

The Redskins offensive line expected to see multiple blitz packages from the Patriots and they weren’t disappointed. The starting offensive line played reasonably well. QB Jason Campbell was knocked around a bit, but they protected him enough to allow him to produce. Run blocking, which should be the lines’ strength, provided very little room for RB Clinton Portis, who finished the game with eight yards rushing.  

 

There was a question about which young receivers would step up and take a stranglehold on the second receiver position. All three made their case for the position.  WR Malcolm Kelly only had one reception but was targeted often, especially in the red zone. WR Devin Thomas was focused on producing and responded with three receptions in traffic and produced several strong kick-off returns. WR Marko Mitchell continues to improve with each game. The rookie broke off a pass-route like a seasoned receiver and caught a 33-yard touchdown. His most impressive play came on a downfield block for TE Chris Cooley, shielding a Patriot defender for nearly 20 yards, allowing Cooley to amass 73-yards on the play. All three should see significant time against the New York Giants in the opening game.

 

The thought was that, with Carlos Rogers out with a calf injury, several young DBs would have to improve their play against the Patriots—who often run four and five-receiver sets. Rookie CB Kevin Barnes is steadily becoming the defender the Redskins had hoped he’d be when they drafted the local product (Maryland) in the third round. Barnes intercepted a Kevin O’Connell pass in the third quarter. CB Justin Tryon had a nice break-up on a deep pass in the first half, but played off the Patriots receivers most of the night and gave up several receptions.

 

RB Marcus Mason was given an opportunity to state his case for a final roster spot.  Playing with the first offense, Mason scored on a 1-yard run and finished the night with 30 yards on eight carries. Mason left the game with badly bruised ribs which, besides hurting him physically, may end up costing him a shot at making the team.

 

C Casey Rabach struggled most of the night against Patriots DTs Mike Wright and Vince Wolfolk. Rabach was beaten badly by Wright on one particular pass-blocking assignment when he barely landed a hand on Wright, allowing Wolfolk to stuff the run of the Redskins first offense.

 

The special teams’ kick coverage performed poorly against the Steelers last week, but ST coach Danny Smith had them ready for the Patriots. Led by DL Lorenzo Alexander, who typically was the first defender down the field, the coverage teams controlled the Patriots’ returns. However, it was a 33-yard punt return late in the game by Patriots S Pat Chung that set-up the game winning FG.

 

Perhaps the most impressive item outside the play off rookie LB/DE Brian Orakpo in the Redskins’ first two preseason games is the limited number of penalties the team incurred. That all changed against the Patriots, as the Redskins shot themselves in the foot time and time again with 15 penalties, totaling 113 yards.

Carolina Panthers Game Guide: Back To The Bank As Ravens Fly In To Town

The photo above depicts Carolina Panthers head coach John Fox the last time he observed the team’s pre-game routine at Bank Of America Stadium. Little did he know that by the time the seats behind him returned to their empty status, his team would be packing its bags for an early offseason after being embarrassed by the Cinderella-esque Arizona Cardinals.

Tonight, the Panthers will take the field at “The Bank” for the first time since that dreadful night. Jake Delhomme will come under center in front of the home fans for the first time since throwing five picks and losing a fumble in that game, solidifying his title of public enemy No. 1 around Charlotte.

For the last seven months, Jake’s name could be heard in the same sentence as the terms washed up, over-rated, and dead weight. The worst part? Those are only the printable insults.

Jake has become the Panthers fans’ favorite target. If you tune into WFNZ 610 AM any time during the week, you’ll hear caller after caller metaphorically hang Jake from a clothesline. You’ll hear debate after debate about how the Panthers will never win anything with Jake running the offense.

All of this was hidden inside these people and Jake’s performance the last time he stepped on that field proved the straw that broke the camel’s back. The floodgates were opened and things have never been so rough in Carolina.

Jake has his first chance to work towards redemption tonight.

The Baltimore Ravens will come into town to face the Panthers on Saturday night. After two mediocre preseason performances, the Panthers will get to try their hand inside the friendly confines of The Bank. 

Yes, I’m aware that this is preseason and this game will mean nothing in a few weeks. However, this is that “all-important” third preseason game where the starters play into the third quarter and there is a game plan and all that jazz. At least, that’s how its supposed to be.

The Panthers find themselves in somewhat of a catch-22 at this point in the young season. They return to their home field for the first time since being blown off of it, yet they can’t afford to lose anyone else before the games start counting.

 

What to Look For on Saturday

+ Look for an explosive beginning to the game. Whether we start with the ball or on defense, look for the Panthers to be firing on all cylinders out of the gate. I guarantee you that I am not the only one who remembers Saturday, January 10, 2009. 

Ron Meeks has preached all offseason about explosiveness and getting to the ball, but we haven’t seen a bit of it. Perhaps the home crowd will be the motivation needed to get some heavy hitting underway.

If Jake gets the ball first, look for us to establish the run. The last thing that we need is Jake throwing an early pick. The boo birds are perched and are ready to swoop down upon him—as well as Ray Lewis—if he makes a mistake. 

+ Look for a break from the norm. The Panthers will likely not play their starters at the skill positions into the third quarter like most teams will in the third preseason games.  They are simply too banged up to risk anymore serious injuries—especially with a hard-hitting Ravens defense waiting in the wings. 

DeAngelo suffered a mild knee injury during practice this week, so why overwork him and risk having both Double and Trouble watching from the sidelines when Philly comes to town?

Steve Smith isn’t quite 100% yet, so why put him on the line for a meaningless game?  Besides, we have a dogfight for the fourth receiver position on our hands between Kenneth Moore and Ryne Robinson. Let’s see what these guys can do against the Ravens’ secondary.

+ Look for someone to make a difference. I’m holding out hope that one of the defensive tackles we have on our roster will make a case to start. At this point, its very likely that the guy who will line up shoulder-to-shoulder with Damione Lewis on Sept. 13th isn’t a Panther yet. 

It would be nice to see one of the guys already on the team step up and stake his claim for the job. Marlon Favorite was impressive in camp but hasn’t gotten much first-team action. Nick Hayden has been tagged as the starting guy as of right now, but it is evident he isn’t ready for that role.

 

Keep in Mind…

This is a shell of our team. We aren’t as deep as we have been in years past, and the coaching staff will likely continue to err on the side of caution. We haven’t played spectacular ball, but we also haven’t had our weapons loaded either. Jake might not look great, but he doesn’t have Smitty and Moose out there. Even if he does tonight, it won’t be for long.

The defense is missing Jon Beason, so it’s very likely that our defense could be abused as the game wears on, especially if Ray Rice is on the level he has been so far this preseason.

 

What to Take Away From This Game…

A level head. Keep remembering that we aren’t in full force, and won’t be until the opener. You cannot read too much into this or any of the other preseason games we have played. 

Watch the offensive line. They are healthy and they are all back, so the chemistry on the line should be impressive. See what kind of holes the Panthers backs have to run through, whether or not they hit them.

Watch the return game again. Right now, I’d have to call advantage Captain Munnerlyn after his 58-yard dash against Miami. See if Robinson or Larry Beavers can make a case to keep their roster spot.

 

Kickoff is at 8:00pm ET, and can be seen locally on Panthers TV (local Fox station).

Radio coverage is on 1110-AM WBT.

***If you’re heading to the game, stop at your local grocery store and pick up a few school supplies. There will be collection bins outside all entry gates, and the supplies collected will be distributed to under-privileged kids in the Charlotte area. Even if it’s one notebook or one highlighter or one folder, every bit helps***

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