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December 2009 News
Not Completely Pointless: Five Washington Redskins Whose Futures Will Be Decided Sunday
Published: December 31, 2009
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It’s next to impossible to be excited about the Redskins game this weekend. They have been out of the playoff running for a long time, and can’t even say they’re playing for respect, since its likly the Chargers will be resting they’re starters for most the game. I don’t see me watching this whole game, and this is from the guy who froze his butt off watching the whole Skins-Cowboys game till the end. While this may not matter much to the fans or the franchise, for a few men, this may be one of the most important games of their career. In this list, I try to choose people who are on the bubble. I obviously don’t have the likes of Orakpo, Hanyesworth, or Dockery who wil play and start next year no matter what, and I try to avoid people like Campbell Randel El, or Zorn who have more or less 0 chance of returning next year. Some of the choices may suprise you, but hey, that’s the point.
2009 Denver Broncos Team Awards
Published: December 31, 2009
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It has been a roller coaster ride of a season for the Denver Broncos, as cliche’ as it may sound. After starting 6-0, the Broncos were sky-high heading into their bye week. They had just gone on the road and beaten the San Diego Chargers, and were ahead in the division by 3.5 games.
Little did they know that history has a nasty habit of repeating itself.
Coming back from their bye week, the Broncos were absolutely crushed by the Baltimore Ravens, and a team that won six straight games to start the season has suddenly lost seven of its last nine.
The Broncos are on the outside looking in at the AFC playoff picture, and they need a win this weekend plus a little bit of help to get themselves to a place they have not been since the 2005 AFC Championship game.
Despite the inconsistency from the Denver Broncos as a unit, this team has achieved more than most anyone this past offseason could have ever anticipated. Many thought the Broncos would vie for the top pick in the 2010 NFL Draft after trading away former quarterback Jay Cutler, firing Mike Shanahan, and having a disgruntled superstar wide receiver.
The Broncos have served crow on a platter all season long, though lately they seem like the team many of those critics thought they would be.
Denver is one win and a little help away from a postseason birth, and here are some of the great players who have helped get them there.
2009 NFL Season: Week 17 Rankings
Published: December 31, 2009
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The last week of the 2009 NFL regular season will either be a happy or forgettable event for some NFL teams. Though 10 of the NFL’s 12 coveted playoff berths have been claimed, there are several Week 17 storylines around the two remaining berths, plus the “Who” and the “Where” pieces of the playoff puzzle left to be decided.
The NFC playoff picture is pretty clear as all six playoff spots have been claimed (New Orleans Saints, Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Arizona Cardinals, and Green Bay Packers). The Saints are the No. 1 seed, but the other five seeds need to be sorted out.
The AFC side of the ledger is a bit more complicated, and though the Indianapolis Colts and San Diego Chargers have clinched the top two seeds, there are seven teams vying for the conference’s last two wild card spots.
In looking at the current NFL standings one last time before the “real” games start, here’s the breakdown:
The “Elite”—Colts (14-1), Saints (13-2), Chargers (12-3), Eagles (11-4), Vikings (11-4), and Cardinals (10-5)
“In the Playoffs or on the Cusp”—Bengals (10-5), Packers (10-5), Cowboys (10-5), Patriots (10-5), Ravens (8-7), and Jets (8-7)
“Help Needed” teams that need help from others in their conference just to get in the playoffs —Texans (8-7), Steelers (8-7), Broncos (8-7), Jaguars (7-8), and Dolphins (7-8)
“Finishing Out the String” teams (See you at the 2010 NFL Draft)—Giants (8-7), Falcons (8-7), Titans (7-8), Niners (7-8), Panthers (7-8), Bears (6-9), Seahawks (5-10), Bills (5-10), Raiders (5-10), Browns (4-11), Redskins (4-11), Chiefs (3-12), Buccaneers (3-12), Lions (2-13), and Rams (1-13)
Now on to the rankings for this week.
1. Colts (14-1) –The champagne corks were flying for the 1972 Miami Dolphins as the Colts chose to “rest” key players in the second half of a disappointing loss to the “thankful” NY Jets. I will debate the point all day that the Colts’ management was wrong to rest players, but GM Bill Polian’s crew has stuck to their “Non-Perfection” stance and we will see how the playoffs turnout. Expect to see more of backup QB Curtis Painter and company as the Colts close out the regular season against the host Buffalo Bills.
2. Chargers (12-3) –The Chargers won their 10th game in a row as they thumped the host Tennessee Titans on Christmas Day. Don’t expect to see head coach Norv Turner to take his foot off the gas when San Diego hosts the Redskins in Week 17, as the Chargers want to go into the playoffs “hot”.
3. Saints (13-2) –Oh, the formerly “perfect” Saints appear to be leaking oil as they head to the playoffs. Though the Saints wrapped up the NFC’s No. 1 seed, they did not look good as they squandered a 17-point lead in a disappointing home overtime loss to the scrappy Tampa Bay Bucs. Even though the Saints shouldn’t have much to play for against the host Carolina Panthers, expect a strong effort from QB Drew Brees and company.
4. Eagles (11-4) -Don’t look now, but outside of the San Diego Chargers, the Birds are the hottest team in the NFL. In another tough, close victory, the Eagles put aside Brian Dawkins homecoming to pull-out a win over the reeling Denver Broncos. Somewhere former Eagles head coaches Dick Vermeil and Buddy Ryan are smiling as it will be Philly vs. Dallas for the NFC East division title in Week 17.
5. Cardinals (10-5) –As the playoffs approach, the Cards are getting better and have a running game. The 2008 NFL runner-ups looked good in pulling out a tougher than expected NFC West division win over the St. Louis Rams. With playoff seeding on the line, the Cardinals will host the Green Bay Packers and these two could possibly meet next week in the first round of the playoffs.
6. Vikings (11-4) –I don’t care what anyone says, the Vikings are on the wrong page at the wrong time of the season. QB Brett Favre and company continued to limp into the playoffs as they lost in overtime to the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football. With a shot at still claiming the NFC’s No. 2 seed (the Eagles need to lose), expect the Vikings to get back on track by thumping the Giants.
7. Patriots (10-5) –The Pats showed their veteran pedigree as they won their third straight game with a drubbing of the reeling Jacksonville Jaguars. You know Patriots head coach Bill Belichick would like nothing more than putting an end to the Houston Texans’ playoff hopes, so expect to see QB Tom Brady and WR Randy Moss in Week 17.
8. Cowboys (10-5) –The ‘Boys continued to answer the bell in December 2009 as they shutout the Washington Redskins. In a signature game, Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips and QB Tony Romo have a chance to wash away a long history of season ending woes by beating the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 17 and claiming the NFC East crown.
9. Bengals (10-5) -The veteran group of head coach Marvin Lewis, QB Carson Palmer, and—dare I say it—Chad Ochocinco, willed the Bengals to a win over the Chiefs to claim the AFC North. With not much to play for by their late Sunday Night Football start, expect the Bengals to “rest” against the NY Jets who they could quite possibly see in the first round of the playoffs.
10. Packers (10-5) –Led by Pro Bowl CB Charles Woodson, the dangerous Packers destroyed the reeling Seattle Seahawks to claim one of the NFC’s wild card spots. Expect the Packers to go for a “momentum” win against the Cardinals in Week 17.
11. Ravens (8-7) –The Ravens lost a tough road game to the Pittsburgh Steelers (dropped passes, touchdowns negate by penalties, and not enough pressure on Big Ben), but they still are in the driver’s seat in the AFC wild card race. Expect to see Ravens head coach John Harbaugh pull out all the stops as Baltimore needs to get a win over the host Oakland Raiders to fulfill their playoff hopes.
12. Steelers (8-7) -You have to wonder how bad the Steelers are kicking themselves for their five-game losing streak that included losses to the Chiefs and Raiders. The Steelers kept their flickering playoff hopes alive by winning a thrilling game over the Ravens. The first order of business for the playoffs is for the Steelers to beat the host Miami Dolphins, and then hope for some help.
13. Texans (8-7) –You know the upstart Texans would like nothing more than to end their 8-8 streak and sneak into the playoffs for the first time. In Week 16, the Texans went on a mission to South Florida and kept their playoff hopes alive while sending the Dolphins closer to next year. It will be “Put Up or Shut Up” time when the Texans host New England in Week 17, but Houston still will need some help to reach the playoffs for the first time.
14. Falcons (8-7) –Too bad QB Matt Ryan was hurt for some crucial games early in the season, as the Falcons are playing some of the best football in the NFL. Mike Smith’s team continued their season ending run by thumping the hap-hazard Buffalo Bills. In a pride of game that will mean a winning season, expect Ryan and the Falcons to go all out in Week 17 versus the surging host Tampa Bay Bucs.
15. Jets (8-7) –I know, the J-E-T-S are very close to securing one of the AFC’s wild card berths, but they have a lot of work to do. After Peyton and his crew handed the Colts’ backups a five-point lead, it didn’t take long for Rex Ryan’s team to secure Jim Caldwell’s gift basket of a victory. The Jets may get their second “gift” win in a row on the way to the playoffs, when they face the Bengals who may also be resting players.
16. Giants (8-7) –The G-Men never showed up in a terrible loss to the Carolina Panthers in the last game at the Meadowlands. It is player evaluation time for GM Jerry Reese and head coach Tom Coughlin as the G-Men travel to Minnesota in Week 17.
17. Broncos (8-7) –Not even the return of former Eagles safety Brian Dawkins could spur the reeling Broncos to a win in Philly. Hard to believe after their hot start, but the Broncos and energetic head coach Josh McDaniels are on the brink of missing the playoffs. In order to keep their flagging playoffs hopes alive, the Broncos must first win at home against the Chiefs.
18. 49ers (7-8) –Mike Singlegtary’s team is getting better, but 2010 maybe their season. The Niners hammered the ready-for-the-draft Detroit Lions last weekend. Looking to build something for next year, expect the Niners to try like crazy for 8-8 as they face the one-win Rams in Week 17.
19. Panthers (7-8) –Panthers head coach John Fox got the okay to return in 2010, but does he? Too bad Fox took so long to insert QB Matt Moore as the starter, because the youngster looked good again, this time in a win over the Giants. The Panthers will continue to play “spoiler” when they host the suddenly stumbling New Orleans Saints.
20. Titans (7-8) –Not even Santa could wrap-up a win for V.Y and the Titans against the red-hot Chargers on Christmas Day. With visions of V.Y producing again in 2010, the Titans will look to finish 8-8 when they face the Seattle Seahawks.
21. Dolphins (7-8) –Week 16’s “Desperation Bowl” against the Houston Texans did not produce a good result for Miami. The Dolphins will be looking to finish .500 and keep their flickering playoff hopes alive when they face the Steelers in Week 17.
22. Jaguars (7-8) –The Jags have limped home after being in the AFC wild card driver’s seat at (7-5) after 13 weeks. The New England Patriots showed no mercy as they pounded the Jags in a deflating loss. With their playoff hopes on life support, the Jags will try to get a win in Cleveland against the red-hot Browns.
23. Bears (6-9) –The real “Monsters of the Midway” finally showed up, as the Bears looked like a new team in producing a Monday Night Football overtime win against the Vikings. Maybe QB Jay Cutler can pull another win out of his magic hat as the Bears face the Detroit Lions in Week 17.
24. Browns (4-11) –You have to believe that the Browns are really starting to impress new football czar Mike Holmgren, as they dominated the Oakland Raiders last weekend. The Browns will try to save head coach Eric Mangini’s job as they host the playoff-hopeful Jacksonville Jaguars.
25. Raiders (5-10) –Oakland put up a fight, but the surging Cleveland Browns were too much for them. Could the Raiders play the role of spoiler for the second year in a row? They host the Ravens, who need to win to make the playoffs.
26. Bills (5-10) –It looks like the Perry Fewell head coaching experiment is about to end, as the Falcons bludgeoned the Bills in Week 16. It will be interesting to see how the Colts’ JV team does in a meaningless Week 17 game in Buffalo.
27. Seahawks (5-10) –The Seahawks didn’t even bother to show up at Lambeau in a horrible loss to the playoff hungry Packers. Expect to see plenty of young players when the Seahawks host the Titans in Week 17.
28. Redskins (4-11) -After the Redskins were shutout by the Cowboys, new GM Bruce Allen probably cannot wait for Black Monday to fire “Dead Man Walking” head coach Jim Zorn. Look for the ‘Skins to mail-it-in when they travel across the country to play the red-hot San Diego Chargers.
29. Buccaneers (3-12) –Head coach Raheem Morris’ team responded to the challenge of facing the 13-win Saints by beating them in overtime. The Bucs will look to keep fighting and learning when they host the Atlanta Falcons in Week 17.
30. Chiefs (3-12) –The Bengals pulled out a tough home win over KC to win the AFC North. With not much else to play for other than stats, the Chiefs travel to Denver for an old-time AFL battle with the Broncos.
31. Lions (2-13) –The Niners showed no mercy in thumping the Lions. In a game that will only have draft slotting implications, the Lions will host the Chicago Bears.
32. Rams (1-14) -The Cards piled up more offensive stats in a quality win over the Rams. It is time to “Just Lose, Baby” for the Rams, as they take on the Niners. With a loss, the Rams can claim the first overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, which will more than likely be Nebraska DT Ndamukong Suh.
Lloyd Vance is a Sr. NFL Writer for Taking It to the House and an award-winning member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA)
Posted in 2009 NFL Power Rankings, 2009 NFL Season, 2009 NFL Week 17 Tagged: 2009 NFL Power Rankings, 2009 NFL Season, 2009 NFL Week 17, Football, NFL, NFL Weekly Rankings, Sports 
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Packers’ Grant Snubbed by Pro Bowl Voters
Published: December 31, 2009
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As it is every year when the NFC and AFC Pro Bowl teams are announced, fans across the nation are up in arms over their favorite players not being selected to the team. Sometimes these complaints are warranted while other times they are simply homer fans who just want to see their favorite players get recognition from the rest of the league.
Charles Woodson is the only Green Bay Packer starting for the NFC team while Aaron Rodgers will make his first trip to the Pro Bowl and Nick Collins is going back for the second straight year. While those three picks were all but locks to make the trip to Miami, there were two players who, barring injury, will not be playing in the Pro Bowl despite having seasons worthy of a selection.
Last season, despite rushing for 1,200 yards, running back Ryan Grant struggled to gain notoriety as the Packers won just six games and Rodgers burst onto the scene as a top passer in the league. Grant fumbled the ball four times, losing three, and caught just 18 passes to finish the season with five total touchdowns.
His 2008 season was seen as a regression from 2007, when Grant went from a practice squad running back on the Giants to premier running back on the 13-3 Packers. He averaged 5.1 yards per rush and scored eight times while rushing for 956 yards. Making it more impressive was the fact that after seven weeks Grant had 27 rushing yards.
This season Grant has had a rejuvenated year but still finds himself overshadowed by Rodgers’ second-straight phenomenal season as well as the Packers’ pass-happy offense. He ranks third in the NFC in rushing yards (1202) and only Adrian Peterson has rushed for more touchdowns than Grant, who has ten. In addition, Grant has improved his receiving numbers and has lost just one fumble all season, in Week 2.
Representing the NFC in the Pro Bowl will be Peterson, Stephen Jackson, and Carolina’s DeAngelo Williams. It’s hard to argue against the NFC’s leading rusher (Jackson) or a player with 17 touchdowns (Peterson), but the real gripe comes in when talking about Williams.
Taking on the “lightning” role in Carolina’s two-running back system along with Jonathon Stewart, Williams has rushed for over 1100 yards and sports an impressive 5.2 yards per rush while adding seven touchdowns to his resume. However, Williams has also missed two games to injury, lost three fumbles, and plays for a team that runs the ball over 52 percent of the time.
Carolina has two 1,000-yard rushers (Williams and Stewart) and while it’s easy to say Stewart has stolen carries and touchdowns from Williams, it also keeps him fresh and makes sure he does not have to carry the load 25 times a game.
Outside of yards per rush, Grant tops Williams in every rushing category and does it for a team that is known for its passing and less than stellar offensive line (to be generous). Grant has been a key to the Packers’ 10-5 record and has taken the ball on more than 67 percent of the Packers’ running plays, compared to Williams’ 44 percent.
Both runners have different roles on their respective teams, but Grant has been far more impressive than Williams in just about every way. Chalk up Williams’ Pro Bowl selection on the fact that he rushed for over 1,500 yards and scored 18 times last season, when he deserved to make it. He has had a great season and has meant everything to the Panthers’ rushing attack, but Grant’s season has been just as impressive and has meant more to the playoff-bound Packers.
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The 25 Most Captivating Sports Stories of 2009
Published: December 31, 2009
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2009 is nearly another footnote in sports history while 2010 is firmly kicking on our door, begging to come in and shine for it’s obligatory 365 days.
But, before we bid adieu to this mad capped year of scandal and heartbreak, I thought it fitting to remember the stories and the faces that made this 09′ sports year what it was.
The slides are in no particular order and I will no doubt miss a few but I expect my scope to be bolstered by the presence of you, the reader. I welcome your additions in the comments section and appreciate your time.
Enjoy and Happy New Year to you all!
Dallas Cowboys Must Defeat the Philadelphia Eagles
Published: December 31, 2009
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Yes, the Dallas Cowboys are in the playoffs, but this game against the Philadelphia Eagles has huge ramifications.
If Dallas wins, they’ll go from second place in the NFC East to the winner of the NFC East. The Cowboys and Chickens would have identical 4-2 and 9-3 divisional and conference records, with a Cowboys win. While Dallas defeated Philly earlier this year, a win would give the Cowboys the trump card with a 2-0 mark against the Eagles.
With a win against Philly and if the Minnesota Vikings and Arizona Cardinals both lose, Dallas would have the second seed in the NFC playoffs and a bye next week. Feel free to ask the specifics once I complete my Probability and Statistics Analysis distance learning degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Of course if Philadelphia wins, all bets are off. I have to think Philly wants this win also especially if it comes with a first-round bye to give Donovan McNabb a chance to heal from the beating he has taken this season.
So, let’s examine further.
Five Reasons Why the Dallas Cowboys will defeat the Philadelphia Eagles
1. Tony Romo is hungry and ready to prove to Pokes fans that he can win late in the year and what better opportunity than against the hated Liberty Chickens?
2. Dallas’ defense will again give Donovan McNabb nobody to throw to and will give him so many headaches he’ll regret downgrading from a four-point to a two-point chinstrap.
3. Because Wade Phillips knows that if Dallas loses and embarks on a quick playoff exit, it could very possible be Mike Shanahan, Bill Cowher, or Brian Billick on Dallas’ sidelines next season.
4. Miles Austin will have a career day against the Eagles.
5. Dallas wants to make sure the Eagles’ first visit to Cowboys Stadium, i.e., The House That Jerry Built, is a very forgettable one for the visitors.
Why the Philadelphia Eagles will defeat the Dallas Cowboys
1. McNabb has a very disturbing knack for playing huge games against Dallas when Cowboys fans think he’s on the ropes, especially when there’s whispers that he doesn’t have “it” anymore.
2. Andy Reid, the Eagles’ coach, has been successful against Dallas in the past and there’s no reason to believe he be won’t now.
3. Romo will revert to gunslinger mode and throw too many passes that are foolish beyond explanation.
4. McNabb will show the NFL that Dallas’ secondary still has many problems.
5. Shaun Suisham will choke and will prove to Cowboys fans he’s not a sufficient replacement for Nick Folk.
(Yes, I call the Eagles the Chickens and sometimes call McNabb “McCrybaby”. In reality, while I hate the Eagles as a team, I have a ton of respect for them. Even when they’re having an off year, Dallas can’t take them lightly).
I see a very close game. Dallas 27, Philadelphia 24.
Richard Zowie’s a blogger for Bleacher Report. Post comments below or e-mail Richard directly at richardzowie@gmail.com .
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Percy Harvin Tops Among Fantasy Rookies with One Week to Go
Published: December 31, 2009
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Playoff pictures are clearing up, superstars are resting for the playoff run, and rookies are starting to get more playing time than usual.
The regular season is a long 17 weeks, and successful teams need contributions from their rookies in order to make the playoffs and possibly win the Super Bowl. The top five rookies on this list all are on potential playoff teams that needed rookie contributions to get to this point.
1. Percy Harvin, WR, Vikings
As Percy Harvin has struggled to get touches, so has the Vikings’ offense. Harvin is a difference maker on a team needing a spark. Look for the Vikings to get Harvin more involved in Week 17 to try and earn a bye in the playoffs.
2. Knowshon Moreno, RB, Broncos
Moreno has been finding the end zone, but yards have been coming tough for this rookie running back. His engine could be running out of gas, but he will need to find a second wind if he expects to help the Broncos make the postseason.
3. Beanie Wells, RB, Cardinals
Wells is the hottest rookie on this list. He was not even in the top five just two weeks ago and now he has moved into the top three. He is fresh due to splitting time with Tim Hightower all the season and some injuries that kept him sidelined early in the season. He is showing the NFL why he should have been the first running back drafted, in his mind.
4. Austin Collie, WR, Colts
“Mr. Reliable” makes all the catches for the Colts, but he has too much other competition for touches in the offense. Reggie Wayne, Joseph Addai, and Dallas Clark still deserve most of the touches, which makes what Collie has done this season even more impressive.
5. Jeremy Maclin, WR, Eagles
Maclin and the Eagles have been on a roll down the stretch of the season. Maclin has great speed and consistent hands that will make him a No. 1 receiver prospect for the Eagles for the rest of his career.
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Fantasy Football Out on a Limb 2009, Volume 17
Published: December 31, 2009
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Before we get started, check out my Week 17 NFL picks .
Time for another edition of Fantasy Football Out on a Limb. I scour the rosters to select a player who I feel will outperform a higher profile player in that given week.
I base my decisions on matchups, how the players are trending and the ever-important hunch. To mix things up, I’ll occasionally do some two-on-one matchups, or even pit RB or WR duos against each other. Sometimes I’ll spot a player some points.
Scoring
6 points for rushing or receiving TD
4 points for a passing TD
0.1 points per yard for rushing or receiving
0.05 points per passing yard.
Last Week
Alex Smith over Peyton Manning: Winner, Smith 15.2, Peyton 9.6
Beanie Wells over LaDainian Tomlinson: Loser, Beanie 15.3, LT 18.3
Ryan Grant over Steven Jackson: Incomplete, Grant 21.7, S-Jax DNP
Chad Ochocino over Brandon Marshall +2: Winner, Ocho 8.9, Marshall 6.2 (4.2 actual +2)
Jermichael Finley over Brent Celek: Loser, Finley 8.0, Celek 18.1
SS: Jason Snelling over Jamaal Charles: Loser, Snelling 7.4, Charles 12.4
Regular Picks: 2-2
Super Stretch Pick: 0-1
Overall: 2-3
Season Record
Regular Picks: 37-39-1
Super Stretch Picks: 6-12
Overall: 43-51-1
Week 17
Jay Cutler over Tony Romo
Cutler is coming off of a big game against the Vikings. He should dominate the Lions and actually make a run at evening his TD-to-INT ratio. Philadelphia will wake up the echoes of Romo’s December struggles.
Knowshon Moreno vs. Thomas Jones
I’m going with the rookie over the veteran in this Week 17 matchup. Moreno faces Kansas City’s 31st-ranked run defense (161.3 yards per game). Thomas Jones faces Cincinnati’s second-ranked run defense (87.7 ypg). The Bengals have allowed half as many rushing TDs as well.
Matt Forte over Ricky Williams
It’s been a forgettable year for Matt Forte as he saw a significant drop in his production. Ricky Williams was the exact opposite. This week though, it will look more like everybody anticipated from these two. Forte should destroy the Lions’ 24th-ranked run defense (125.7 ypg), while Williams should struggle against the Steelers’ 3rd-ranked run defense (89.3 ypg). Pittsburgh has allowed 12 fewer rushing TDs.
Nate Washington over Chad Ochocinco
Washington takes on Seattle, who has allowed 27 passing TDs on the year. Washington is a good bet to burn the Seahawks deep. Meanwhile, Ochocinco has to lock horns with Darrelle Revis, who has been shutting WRs down all year.
Steve Breaston over Miles Austin
Breaston faces Green Bay. Despite ranking 12th with 220.7 passing yards per game, the Packers have allowed 28 passing TDs, which ranks 29th in the league in that category. The Eagles held Austin to just one catch the last time they played. I’m expecting Romo to struggle, so why not hitch my cart to that prediction.
Super Stretch
Jason Snelling over Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower (Individually)
I suspect Michael Turner will be out again this week, which means Snelling would get the bulk of the work. He takes on Tampa Bay, who ranks 30th against the run (156.5 ypg) and has allowed 16 rushing TDs. Beanie and Hightower are both capable of putting up solid games, though they will likely struggle against Green Bay’s No. 1 run defense (85.7 ypg, 5 TDs).
Originally published at LestersLegends.com .
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The Best Colts’ Games of the Decade
Published: December 31, 2009
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Okay, so maybe the last Indianapolis Colts game of 2009 won’t make anyone’s list as the team’s best of the decade, but it can’t overshadow the fact that it’s been one helluva decade for the Colts.
A record number of wins for a franchise in a decade.
A record number of consecutive wins in the regular season.
A Super Bowl championship.
Considering the Colts only had one season with more than 10 wins in the previous decade and a half (and that came in 1999), the Colts’ accomplishments are quite remarkable.
In the past 10 years, there’s been several great games making it difficult to pick the 10 most memorable.
To start, here’s a quick look at some honorable mentions that just missed the list followed by the list of the 10 best Colts games.
Honorable Mention
2007 Colts 41, Saints 10
The blowout knocks this game off the list, but the Colts kicked off their Super Bowl defense in style and ruining Jason David’s homecoming.
2005 Colts 17, Cardinals 13
After the loss of Tony Dungy’s son, this was an emotional win for the Colts. With starters resting, Jim Sorgi threw two touchdowns and the defense held the Cardinals at the goal line in the end for the win.
2003 Divisional Playoff Colts 38, Chiefs 31
The punters took the day off in this one as neither team needed them. Peyton Manning threw for 304 yards and three touchdowns as the Colts, surprisingly, held the lead throughout the game.
2008 Colts 24, Steelers 20
It was the most impressive win during the Colts winning streak after starting the season 3-4. The future 2008 Super Bowl champions were at home and playing well, but Dominic Rhodes’ swing pass gave the Colts a late lead. Keiwan Ratliff made an excellent interception against Ben Roethlisberger to help pull the upset.
2005 Colts 40, Patriots 21
The Patriots had owned the Colts. This game was the turning point. The Colts went into New England, a place that had held playoff disappointments the previous two seasons, and came away with an impressive victory. The Patriots managed only one more win against the Colts the rest of the decade.
10. 2005: Colts 45, Rams 28
What’s most impressive about the score is the fact that the Colts fell behind 17-0 in this game. But the Colts’ game plan had the letters “Don’t Panic” printed in large, friendly letters way before this season.
The Colts went on a 45-3 run, highlighted by a Manning to Marvin Harrison six-yard touchdown pass that set them apart as the most prolific passing combination in NFL history.
9. 2008: Colts 31, Texans 27 & 2009: Colts 35, Texans 27
I’ve combined these two games into one ranking because the plot line is the same. Texans get big lead. Texans make mistakes. Colts capitalize on mistakes. Texans lose again.
The 2008 contest marked the end of the Sage Rosenfels show in Houston. Manning’s touchdown pass to Tom Santi looked like nothing more than a way to make the score respectable until Robert Mathis caused Rosenfels to fumble, and Gary Brackett returned the ball 68 yards for the touchdown. Rosenfels turned the ball over again, and Manning’s five-yard touchdown pass to Reggie Wayne finished the comeback.
The following year, the Texans lead 20-7 at halftime, but the Colts woke up in the second half. Two Manning touchdown passes gave the Colts a slim lead, but the game was really decided when Matt Schaub threw an interception that Clint Session returned for a touchdown, giving the Colts a 28-20 lead. The Texans last score was too late to stop the Colts’ second consecutive comeback at Houston.
8. Super Bowl XLI: Colts 29, Bears 17
It may not have been the best played game. The soggy Super Bowl made for a turnover-filled affair. The Colts adjusted the best to the conditions, controlling the game with an efficient short-passing game and some solid running from Rhodes and Joseph Addai.
Outside of one early Thomas Jones run, the Colts’ defense slowed the Bears’ rushing attack enough to force Rex Grossman to make plays. Grossman responded by throwing two interceptions, highlighted by the game clinching interception return for a touchdown by Kelvin Hayden.
The Super Bowl win brought a lot of respect to the Colts organization. The monkey was removed from both Dungy and Manning’s back, but they really had accomplished that two weeks earlier.
7. 2004: Colts 45, Packers 31
This was the game that set off Manning’s record setting touchdown pace of the 2004 season. Brett Favre was determined to keep up with Manning. The teams combined for 35 points in the first quarter off five touchdown passes. By the end of the game, Favre and Manning had combined to throw for 753 yards and nine touchdowns.
Even though the Colts took command as the game wore on, the contest is a classic gunfight between Favre and Manning. For Manning, it was the first of four games in the 2004 season that he would throw at least five touchdowns.
6. 2004 Wildcard: Colts 49, Broncos 24
In 2003, the Broncos were embarrassed by the Colts in the wildcard round 41-10. In an effort to improve the holes in their passing defense, the Broncos brought in all-world cornerback Champ Bailey. However, the result was the same as Manning torched the Bronco’s secondary for 458 yards.
What most people remember from this game was the Harrison touchdown where he caught the ball and fell down. Three Bronco defenders stood around but none touched him. Harrison got up and ran in for the score, and the rout was on.
5. 2005: Colts 45, Bengals 37
Perhaps I’m biased as this is the only Colts road game I’ve ever attended, but it’s hard to argue about a game that had over 950 yards of offense.
Much like the shootout between Favre and Manning in 2004, this one featured Manning versus the up-and-coming Carson Palmer. The story of the week was how Palmer and the artist formerly known as Chad Johnson had gone to Indianapolis to see how Manning and Harrison worked together. While Palmer connected with Johnson eight times for 189 yards and a score, Manning spread the ball around as both Dallas Clark and Wayne amassed over 115 yards receiving each.
In the end, the Bengals bid to dethrone the Colts came up short when they failed to recover an onside kick near the end of the game. The win moved the Colts to 10-0 and off to their best start ever, at the time.
4. 2004: Colts 34, Charger 31 (OT)
See, the Colts can beat the Chargers! Although of all the Chargers-Colts recent contests, this one actually had the potential to be a dominant Charger victory. The Chargers took a 24-9 lead after Drew Brees hit Antonio Gates for a four-yard touchdown pass. The Colts responded only to see the Chargers regain their 15-point lead after LaDainian Tomlinson’s 16-yard touchdown run made it 31-16.
Rhodes sparked this particular Colts’ comeback victory with an 88-yard kickoff touchdown return. Still down seven, Manning threw one of his most memorable touchdown passes, hitting Brandon Stokley on a deep post route that not only tied the game, but also gave Manning the season touchdown record. The RCA Dome may never have been louder than it was at that point. Mike Vanderjagt’s field goal in overtime capped the comeback win.
This matchup is the main reason why it would be fun to see a Saints-Colts Super Bowl just to see Brees and Manning matchup again.
3. 2003: Colts 38, Buccaneers 35 (OT)
Though this wasn’t Manning’s first comeback win, it was the one that vaulted the Colts into the mainstream.
The game itself was pretty abysmal for the Colts early on. It seemed to be Tampa Bay’s night as every bounce went their way. The most notable was Keenan McCardell’s fumble return for a touchdown after a wild play where the Colts’ Mike Doss had intercepted Brad Johnson only to fumble the ball away. The Colts trailed at halftime 21-0.
The Colts showed little life after that, but did eventually cut Tampa Bay’s lead to 28-14. However, Ronde Barber returned a Manning interception for a score and the Bucs led 35-14 in the fourth quarter.
Then the comeback happened.
Brad Pyatt returned the kickoff 90 yards setting up a James Mungro score. Tampa Bay couldn’t move the ball, so the Colts got another shot, this time scoring on a Manning-to-Harrison touchdown pass. The other Ricky Williams completed the amazing comeback with a one-yard plunge, forcing overtime.
The Colts kept things exciting in overtime. Vanderjagt badly missed his first chance to win to the game and nearly missed his second attempt that won it.
SI’s Peter King called it the best regular season game of the decade. It ranks only second on my list for regular season games, but it was a thriller and really set the tone for the franchise that no lead is insurmountable. That philosophy was definitely needed for the games remaining on the list.
2. 2009: Colts 35, Patriots 34
This game will forever be known as “The Call,” but it was much more than that.
For a half, the Patriots looked like the team they were in 2007. Tom Brady finally looked like his repaired knee was 100 percent, and Randy Moss simply could not be stopped. The Colts were sputtering on offense and New England built a sizable 24-7 lead.
Much like another memorable Patriots game, the Colts managed to score before the half and trailed 24-14 heading into the break.
The Patriots really lost the game in the third quarter, twice turning the ball over in the red zone as the Colts continued to struggle on offense. Brady then went back to Moss to seemingly ice the game at 31-14 at the start of the fourth quarter.
But, for some reason, that’s exactly when the Colts seem to make things interesting.
Pierre Garcon, who had been suffering through a miserable game until that moment, scored on a 29-yard pass from Manning to cut the lead to 10. The Patriots managed just a field goal off a Manning interception, and the Colts responded with a quick drive for another touchdown and trailed just 34-28 with four minutes left.
And then came “The Call.”
Patriot coach Bill Belichick decided not to give the ball back to Manning after seeing his defense give up a quick touchdown. New England went for it on fourth-and-two from their own 28 yard line, and Melvin Bullit’s tackle saved the game.
Manning milked the clock before hitting Wayne on a quick slant with 13 seconds left, giving the Colts a very improbable 35-34 victory.
Amazing game, but not the best Colts game ever. It’s not even the best Colts-Patriots game ever.
1. 2006 AFC Championship: Colts 38, Patriots 34
This game had everything. Great comeback. Victory over bitter rival. Trip to Indianapolis’ first Super Bowl.
And it all looked like it wasn’t going to happen when Asante Samuel returned a Manning pass for a touchdown midway through the second quarter. Down 21-3, the Colts looked like they would blow another chance to beat New England in the playoffs.
The first key to the comeback was Adam Vinatieri’s field goal before halftime. While it only cut the lead to 21-6, it showed the Colts could move the ball, and they carried that momentum with them into the second half.
The Colts may have played their best half of football ever as they scored 32 points. What was unique was the ways in which the Colts scored. Manning scored on a quarterback sneak. Defensive tackle Dan Klecko caught a touchdown pass. Jeff Saturday recovered a fumble in the end zone for a score.
The Patriots produced only one touchdown in the second half as their lead slowly evaporated. After a Stephen Gostkowski field goal put New England up 34-31, the Colts got the ball with a chance to win the game. Manning drove the Colts to the New England three yard line where Saturday made the best block of his career, moving Vince Wolfork out of the way as Addai waltzed into the end zone. With a minute remaining, the Colts had their first lead of the day.
Brady’s comeback fell short as he was picked off by Marlin Jackson. The Colts went to the Super Bowl. It wasn’t just a great game. It it was a monumental one for the franchise, which is why I consider it the best Colts game of the decade.
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Devin Gardner Impresses During UA Bowl Pracitce
Published: December 31, 2009
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From ESPN: Michigan pledge Devin Gardner (Inkster, Mich./Inkster) displayed good short-to-intermediate arm strength, and impressed with his ability to improvise out of the pocket and make plays with his feet.
Det News and Scout added : “(Devin Gardner) really impressed me a lot,” Vogt added. “He was bigger than I expected him to be. His arm was everything that people made it out to be. He was accurate. He immediately started taking first-team reps on (the Black team) ahead of (Alabama commit Phillip Sims) and (Washington commit) Nick Montana. He clearly, in my opinion, is the top quarterback on that team. He’s got as much potential as any quarterback I’ve seen in the state of Florida this year. He’d be the No. 1 quarterback in Florida straight out this year and that’s really saying something. I think he has a really bright future at Michigan. He is a top-10 quarterback in the country and a kid that looks like he can play early in his career at Michigan.”
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