Hey Manning, see the guys with horseshoes on their helmets? They're on our team. Thanks for that. I know he ended up with a wrapped elbow. He also had guys in his backfield all night. 26 yards rushing for the night. Manning had 4 INTs.
It also did not help that the refs were apparently from Jacksonville. The third interception came from a guy blatantly grabbing Reggie Wayne, throwing him to the ground, and grabbing the ball. Pass interference anyone? The stadium booed and booed. Think about it. Take 7 away from the Charger and give it to the Colts in the third and they are in a position to try to come back. The next drive also stalled when Manning was sacked. He was sacked because they grabbed the right guard by the facemask and shoved him backwards into Manning.
Once again, the lone bright spot was the defense. They held the Chargers to field goals until the game was out of reach anyway. I do have an idea for how to improve things. We should put out linebackers on offense so that they can tackle the other team when Manning throws the ball to them.
Rest of the League:
Jets-Bengals. That's just mean to make the Bengals go to Jersey on Thanksgiving.
Saints-Cowboys. It is amazing what the Cowboys can do when the pretend that they are professionals. It was not, however, enough to knock off the defending champs.
Pats-Lions. I don't think the Lions have won a Thanksgiving game that I can remember. Having to face Tom "We Suck"Brady and the Pats... Well, they've turned into the second best team in the AFC.
Giants-Jags. Thanks Giants. At least we're still only a half game off in the division.
Falcons-Packers. Holy cow this game was good. It was everything you could hope for. These two teams were the NFC best, and possibly a preview of the NFC Championship. These teams were evenly matched, but in the end the home team won by a field goal. Excellent game.
Bears-Eagles. These were the other two best teams in the NFC, who ironically played the same day. I must say for the first time this season, it looks like the Bears are legit IN SPITE OF their QB.
Browns-Panthers. Too bad the Panthers aren't a better team so that they could blow them out. Peyton Hillis had a big game for the Browns. Unlike many heartbreaking finishes this season, Cleveland ended up with a W on this one.
Steelers-Bills. The Steelers think they are so good, but barely squeaked by a team that got their first W two weeks ago. Yeah. You're so good.
Texans-Titans. The one highlight of this game from the Titans was at least they didn't have to cuddle VY after the game.
Vikings-Skins. See what I said about the Steelers, and insert a comment about Favre being older than dirt. He ran 10 yards at one point, and was so out of breathe he said he felt like he ran a mile. Oh Childress, why did you hitch yourself to that wagon?
Ravens-Buccs. The only thing I have to say about this game is that one INT by the Buccs was the best interception ever. The guy caught the ball with his feet. His feet!
Niners-Cards. The only reason I am talking about this boring, meaningless game is the post-game interview. They showed on the sidelines during the game Anderson laughing at a joke down 18. He explained that this guard made a joke to lift his spirits and keep him in it. One reporter asked him about it again and again. After about the fourth him, he exploded. Some criticize him, but most don't. I'm with the majority on this case. If you push me like that, I'll blow too. I'm just saying.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Observations from an Airplane.
Saturday evening I sat in an airplane. The plane was 45 minutes late. I was staring out the window as Maryland flashed below me. Houses were little dots in the midst of masses of reds, oranges, and browns from the fall leaves. As we got lower, eventually you could see other dots that were moving on gray lines, cars on the interstate.
All of this can make you feel insignificant. Is this all our lives are? Are we ants scurrying around on the dirt? I could not see people. I could not see individuals. I could not see their hopes, their dreams, their struggles, their fears, their doubt, their pain. I could only see masses of dots.
This is how many people see God. "He's not concerned about me." Half the world's population doesn't have enough food. More slaves exist upon the earth now than ever before (including right here in the USA). North Korea bombs South Korea. Young men and women sacrifice everything in Afghanistan. Countless other wars that don't make the 6:00 news have been going on for generations. With all this going on, does God look down from heaven and see scurrying ants?
No! Our God is one who is deeply involved in our lives. This is a God who can look into you and see your heart. He sees your hopes, dreams, struggles, fears, doubts, and pain. He knows you in and out like a lover. Indeed, He loves you more than anyone else can. He WANTS to be involved. He WANTS to hear your prayers, struggles, and doubts.
You are not an ant to Him. You are His child. So climb in his lap and talk to Him. He wants to hear from you.
All of this can make you feel insignificant. Is this all our lives are? Are we ants scurrying around on the dirt? I could not see people. I could not see individuals. I could not see their hopes, their dreams, their struggles, their fears, their doubt, their pain. I could only see masses of dots.
This is how many people see God. "He's not concerned about me." Half the world's population doesn't have enough food. More slaves exist upon the earth now than ever before (including right here in the USA). North Korea bombs South Korea. Young men and women sacrifice everything in Afghanistan. Countless other wars that don't make the 6:00 news have been going on for generations. With all this going on, does God look down from heaven and see scurrying ants?
No! Our God is one who is deeply involved in our lives. This is a God who can look into you and see your heart. He sees your hopes, dreams, struggles, fears, doubts, and pain. He knows you in and out like a lover. Indeed, He loves you more than anyone else can. He WANTS to be involved. He WANTS to hear your prayers, struggles, and doubts.
You are not an ant to Him. You are His child. So climb in his lap and talk to Him. He wants to hear from you.
Monday, November 22, 2010
NFL 10 Week 11 synopsis
I was afraid of that. With the injuries not just to WR, TE, and RB positions, but with a decimated secondary, I didn't expect the Colts to play that well.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. Each year, my church does a Congregation meeting/dinner, which I am forced to attend just because I'm me. Our Sr. Minister goes on vacation, so I'm left in charge. Guess when it falls? The Sunday before Thanksgiving, from 5-8. I had to be there early. That means I missed everything, from kickoff to final. I got home to see the post-locker room interviews and highlights. So I went to the dinner. Oh I went. I went in a Colts jersey (Brandon Stokely. I always liked him. When he got traded to the Broncos, they jerseys went cheap and I got one) and my Super Bowl Champions hat. One guy, before leaving, showed the score on his phone. At that point, it was 31-21 Pats. Boo!
Here's what I know from highlights. Manning threw 3 INTS. The first one was just bad. The second one, Manning made a mental mistake. He must have thought it was a different play. Garcon was supposed to cut back, and did, leaving himself wide open. Just before the cut, Manning threw the ball (as they do with timing routes), but threw it as if Garcon was going to keep going. He said that was his mistake in the post-game interview. And the third INT (how often does Manning throw any, let alone 3?!) he just underthrew the ball, so instead of going to Garcon, it went short to the Pats. That drive would have one them the game had they gotten in the endzone, tied with a field goal (Vinateri was mad that he didn't get a shot at it). Now his arm or the ball may have been bumped if you look at the film, but Manning took all the blame for all 3. Glad he at least holds himself accountable (rare in our world).
I wonder if his shoulder is secretly hurt or something, because he pretty well lost the game against the Eagles the same way. Something to think about. Regardless, we have got to get better if we want to keep our division hopes alive.
Gotta give props to Reggie Wayne and Blaire White (who is Blaire White and where did he come from? I don't know, but I know where he went. Endzone. Twice.) for their outstanding performances. Also props to the D for stiffening in the second half, allowing the Colts to come back on the Pats (because they always have to come from behind against the Pats.)
Too bad Hagler didn't pull in that ball LIKE HE SHOULD HAVE to get an INT on Tom "We Suck" Brady, allowing the Colts not to have to drive that far and maybe Manning never throws that INT but a TD instead. And too bad Bellicheck punted instead of going for it on 4th down last year. He he he he heeee...... A guy can dream, right?
Rest of the League:
Bears-Fins. Two defensive teams this year. I guess we know who's D is better now.
Ravens-Panthers. Panthers lost... shocker. Someone needs to tell their QB that Ed Reed and Ray Lewis play for the other team.
Jets-Texans. Wow. What a game. It looked like the Jets were going to blow out the Texans. Then the Texans scored 17 points in the fourth. Then Sanchez through an INT, which the Texans got 3 more out of. With that interception, I thought the game was over. But the Texans didn't get a first, and the Jets drove the field for a last-second win. After two overtime wins the two previous weeks, Rex Ryan, the Sanchize, and the rest of that offense is proving that they can finish games. I also have to mention Sanchez, after throwing that interception, chased down and tackled the guy to allow his team the win. Gotta love a tackling quarterback.
Bills-Bengals. The Bengals looked like they were going to win this one early, but apparently forgot to come out of the locker room the second half. The Bills scored 5 TDs in the second half and shut out the Bungals. I would be remiss if I did not mention that TO dropped some easy passes, just like he has for every other team. So I say, as I have for every other team he has played for, maybe they would throw you the ball more often if you would actually try to catch it.
Jags-Browns. The Jags got lucky. AGAIN. For the 3rd time this season, they won undeservedly, but by luck. They should not have won. Period. I do have to say, that they are a big reason I hate the AFC South. They went from last to first in the division over the past 2 weeks. We had better beat them in Lucas Oil. I'm just saying.
Skins-Titans. Each quarter, these teams matched each other score for score. In the first, each got a TD. In each quarter after that, they score one field goal each. Then in OT, the redskins finally put one through to win. But the big story is that VY hurt his thumb and came out. He wanted to play, but they put in their backup. He then threw his helmet and shoulderpads INTO THE STANDS and stormed off. He and Jeff Fisher (head coach) got into a shouting match after that (apparently police or security had to brake it up) and VY left, staying for neither the team meeting or press conference. Fisher announced VY is fired as starter. He characteristically has had a habit of being a big baby who throws temper tantrums. There were games where he threw a couple of INTs and then refused to go back in. He's immature and not a team player. I would have cut/traded him years ago. Its about Jeff.
Chiefs-Cards. Man the Cards are bad this year.
Cowboys-Lions. Again, it is amazing what they can do when they act like professionals. They wouldn't be in this mess if they would have done that all along.
Steelers-Raiders. Oakland was playing like the old days, when the team was a bunch of ex-cons. Someone needs to tell them this is football, not hockey. One fight they got away with, but a player decking the opposing QB for no apparent reason, that won't fly.
Eagles-Giants. Wow that offense is scary. This was the first ever time both Mannings have thrown 3+ INTs in the same week. But with Vick at the helm, these Eagles are just phenomenal. I saw an interview with Tony Dungy on Vick. Vick told Coach Dungy that he felt he owed Atlanta an apology, because in Atlanta he relied on talent. Now he is actually studying and preparing for games like Peyton does, to add in the mental factor to pure physical ability. OK Vick. I'll join your banwagon, for now anyway.
Packers-Vikings. Oh yeah. Packer went Incredible Hulk on the Vikings, who could do nothing right. Today, the Vikings fired Brad Childress. He gambled on making the decision to fire Moss without consulting GM or owner of the Vikings. That put his neck on the line, and all his eggs in the Favre basket. Hitching your wagon to a Hoverround, not a wise move. There's a reason the Packers let him go. Everyone is sick of the retire, come back, retire, come back merry-go-round. Chilly, you should have cut the Geezer, not catered to his every wish. Now you paid the price.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. Each year, my church does a Congregation meeting/dinner, which I am forced to attend just because I'm me. Our Sr. Minister goes on vacation, so I'm left in charge. Guess when it falls? The Sunday before Thanksgiving, from 5-8. I had to be there early. That means I missed everything, from kickoff to final. I got home to see the post-locker room interviews and highlights. So I went to the dinner. Oh I went. I went in a Colts jersey (Brandon Stokely. I always liked him. When he got traded to the Broncos, they jerseys went cheap and I got one) and my Super Bowl Champions hat. One guy, before leaving, showed the score on his phone. At that point, it was 31-21 Pats. Boo!
Here's what I know from highlights. Manning threw 3 INTS. The first one was just bad. The second one, Manning made a mental mistake. He must have thought it was a different play. Garcon was supposed to cut back, and did, leaving himself wide open. Just before the cut, Manning threw the ball (as they do with timing routes), but threw it as if Garcon was going to keep going. He said that was his mistake in the post-game interview. And the third INT (how often does Manning throw any, let alone 3?!) he just underthrew the ball, so instead of going to Garcon, it went short to the Pats. That drive would have one them the game had they gotten in the endzone, tied with a field goal (Vinateri was mad that he didn't get a shot at it). Now his arm or the ball may have been bumped if you look at the film, but Manning took all the blame for all 3. Glad he at least holds himself accountable (rare in our world).
I wonder if his shoulder is secretly hurt or something, because he pretty well lost the game against the Eagles the same way. Something to think about. Regardless, we have got to get better if we want to keep our division hopes alive.
Gotta give props to Reggie Wayne and Blaire White (who is Blaire White and where did he come from? I don't know, but I know where he went. Endzone. Twice.) for their outstanding performances. Also props to the D for stiffening in the second half, allowing the Colts to come back on the Pats (because they always have to come from behind against the Pats.)
Too bad Hagler didn't pull in that ball LIKE HE SHOULD HAVE to get an INT on Tom "We Suck" Brady, allowing the Colts not to have to drive that far and maybe Manning never throws that INT but a TD instead. And too bad Bellicheck punted instead of going for it on 4th down last year. He he he he heeee...... A guy can dream, right?
Rest of the League:
Bears-Fins. Two defensive teams this year. I guess we know who's D is better now.
Ravens-Panthers. Panthers lost... shocker. Someone needs to tell their QB that Ed Reed and Ray Lewis play for the other team.
Jets-Texans. Wow. What a game. It looked like the Jets were going to blow out the Texans. Then the Texans scored 17 points in the fourth. Then Sanchez through an INT, which the Texans got 3 more out of. With that interception, I thought the game was over. But the Texans didn't get a first, and the Jets drove the field for a last-second win. After two overtime wins the two previous weeks, Rex Ryan, the Sanchize, and the rest of that offense is proving that they can finish games. I also have to mention Sanchez, after throwing that interception, chased down and tackled the guy to allow his team the win. Gotta love a tackling quarterback.
Bills-Bengals. The Bengals looked like they were going to win this one early, but apparently forgot to come out of the locker room the second half. The Bills scored 5 TDs in the second half and shut out the Bungals. I would be remiss if I did not mention that TO dropped some easy passes, just like he has for every other team. So I say, as I have for every other team he has played for, maybe they would throw you the ball more often if you would actually try to catch it.
Jags-Browns. The Jags got lucky. AGAIN. For the 3rd time this season, they won undeservedly, but by luck. They should not have won. Period. I do have to say, that they are a big reason I hate the AFC South. They went from last to first in the division over the past 2 weeks. We had better beat them in Lucas Oil. I'm just saying.
Skins-Titans. Each quarter, these teams matched each other score for score. In the first, each got a TD. In each quarter after that, they score one field goal each. Then in OT, the redskins finally put one through to win. But the big story is that VY hurt his thumb and came out. He wanted to play, but they put in their backup. He then threw his helmet and shoulderpads INTO THE STANDS and stormed off. He and Jeff Fisher (head coach) got into a shouting match after that (apparently police or security had to brake it up) and VY left, staying for neither the team meeting or press conference. Fisher announced VY is fired as starter. He characteristically has had a habit of being a big baby who throws temper tantrums. There were games where he threw a couple of INTs and then refused to go back in. He's immature and not a team player. I would have cut/traded him years ago. Its about Jeff.
Chiefs-Cards. Man the Cards are bad this year.
Cowboys-Lions. Again, it is amazing what they can do when they act like professionals. They wouldn't be in this mess if they would have done that all along.
Steelers-Raiders. Oakland was playing like the old days, when the team was a bunch of ex-cons. Someone needs to tell them this is football, not hockey. One fight they got away with, but a player decking the opposing QB for no apparent reason, that won't fly.
Eagles-Giants. Wow that offense is scary. This was the first ever time both Mannings have thrown 3+ INTs in the same week. But with Vick at the helm, these Eagles are just phenomenal. I saw an interview with Tony Dungy on Vick. Vick told Coach Dungy that he felt he owed Atlanta an apology, because in Atlanta he relied on talent. Now he is actually studying and preparing for games like Peyton does, to add in the mental factor to pure physical ability. OK Vick. I'll join your banwagon, for now anyway.
Packers-Vikings. Oh yeah. Packer went Incredible Hulk on the Vikings, who could do nothing right. Today, the Vikings fired Brad Childress. He gambled on making the decision to fire Moss without consulting GM or owner of the Vikings. That put his neck on the line, and all his eggs in the Favre basket. Hitching your wagon to a Hoverround, not a wise move. There's a reason the Packers let him go. Everyone is sick of the retire, come back, retire, come back merry-go-round. Chilly, you should have cut the Geezer, not catered to his every wish. Now you paid the price.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
NFL 10 Week 10 synopsis
Ah... the Bengals. Our closest geographic rivals. Manning has never lost to the Bengals, but until last week, he had never lost to Andy Reid either. Well, the game was... not very good. The Colts only touchdowns of the game came off turnovers (one a pick 6, the other with a fumble which led to an offensive drive for a TD). Everything else came down to Vinateri's right foot, for the second time this season. But loosing 2 running backs, their all-star tight-end, and a handful of recievers will do that to an offense. That doesn't even include that half the defense is injured.
But we do have some key players still in, starting with #18 Peyton Manning (cause let's face it. If Painter comes in, we're done) and Jeff Saturday, best center in the NFL. Reggie Wayne and the rest of Saturday's O-line helps too. And Tami is doing pretty good, about like you would expect from any other tight-end besides Clark. On Defense, Freeney and Mathis still make themselves felt, especially at the end of the game. Linemen can only block them for so long.
Even if it is the Bengals, a win is a win this time. Ocho had an amazing game, with acrobatic catch after acrobatic catch. TO, on the other hand, thinks he's still playing for the Cowboys and didn't even try.
Rest of the League:
Falcons-Ravens. This game was everything I hoped it would be... in the last five minutes. Inside of the two minute warning, both teams had scoring drives that showed just how great they are this season. Altanta is the best team in the NFC this year.
Fins-Titans. Thanks for the help in getting the division lead back. Randy Moss has one game down, three to go with the Titans. I wonder who will take him next? This game also saw play from FIVE different QBs, Pennington, Henne, and Thigpen for Miami, and Collins and Young for Tennesee.
Bears-Vikings. Culter is trying to chase down Favre's Interceptions record, but darn it if the Geezer won't let that stand. He threw 3 INTs in that game, and lost a fumble. Now that's the Favre we come to know and... well, respect isn't the right word...
Bills-Lions. Speaking of not letting records fall, the Lions have one record, the only team to go 0-16. They didn't want to let that go, so they let the Bills win.
Jags-Houston. The Jags got lucky. Again. That's all I'm saying.
Broncos-Chiefs. Holy Cow, the Broncos got an offense. Where did that come from? They've been awful. And the chiefs, well, I guess they haven't recovered from the beating Oakland gave them.
Cowboys-Giants. Sorry TC. It is amazing what a group of men can do when they pretend to be professions and actually try for sixty minutes. I agree with some of the talking heads on TV, who said this says more about the players, who SHOULD have been trying all along.
Seahawks-Cards. No one cares.
Niners-Rams. Aw... the Niners one. Isn't that sweet.
Pats-Steelers. Yeah, I didn't really care about this game. Only thing you need to know is that Tom "We Suck" Brady is still a pretty boy chump. Pitt tried to score all their points in the 4th, but it was too little too late.
Jets-Browns. Game of the week. Rex Ryan and Rob Ryan (twins) going against each other. And this game was tight. It was a shame that the Jets aren't a better team so that the Browns could blow them out. There was some blown tackling with 16 seconds left on the clock in overtime allowing the Jets to win the game.
But we do have some key players still in, starting with #18 Peyton Manning (cause let's face it. If Painter comes in, we're done) and Jeff Saturday, best center in the NFL. Reggie Wayne and the rest of Saturday's O-line helps too. And Tami is doing pretty good, about like you would expect from any other tight-end besides Clark. On Defense, Freeney and Mathis still make themselves felt, especially at the end of the game. Linemen can only block them for so long.
Even if it is the Bengals, a win is a win this time. Ocho had an amazing game, with acrobatic catch after acrobatic catch. TO, on the other hand, thinks he's still playing for the Cowboys and didn't even try.
Rest of the League:
Falcons-Ravens. This game was everything I hoped it would be... in the last five minutes. Inside of the two minute warning, both teams had scoring drives that showed just how great they are this season. Altanta is the best team in the NFC this year.
Fins-Titans. Thanks for the help in getting the division lead back. Randy Moss has one game down, three to go with the Titans. I wonder who will take him next? This game also saw play from FIVE different QBs, Pennington, Henne, and Thigpen for Miami, and Collins and Young for Tennesee.
Bears-Vikings. Culter is trying to chase down Favre's Interceptions record, but darn it if the Geezer won't let that stand. He threw 3 INTs in that game, and lost a fumble. Now that's the Favre we come to know and... well, respect isn't the right word...
Bills-Lions. Speaking of not letting records fall, the Lions have one record, the only team to go 0-16. They didn't want to let that go, so they let the Bills win.
Jags-Houston. The Jags got lucky. Again. That's all I'm saying.
Broncos-Chiefs. Holy Cow, the Broncos got an offense. Where did that come from? They've been awful. And the chiefs, well, I guess they haven't recovered from the beating Oakland gave them.
Cowboys-Giants. Sorry TC. It is amazing what a group of men can do when they pretend to be professions and actually try for sixty minutes. I agree with some of the talking heads on TV, who said this says more about the players, who SHOULD have been trying all along.
Seahawks-Cards. No one cares.
Niners-Rams. Aw... the Niners one. Isn't that sweet.
Pats-Steelers. Yeah, I didn't really care about this game. Only thing you need to know is that Tom "We Suck" Brady is still a pretty boy chump. Pitt tried to score all their points in the 4th, but it was too little too late.
Jets-Browns. Game of the week. Rex Ryan and Rob Ryan (twins) going against each other. And this game was tight. It was a shame that the Jets aren't a better team so that the Browns could blow them out. There was some blown tackling with 16 seconds left on the clock in overtime allowing the Jets to win the game.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Cowboys humor
I recieved this as a forward this morning, and had to share.
The Texas State Police are cracking down on speeders heading into Dallas. For
the first offense, they give you 2 Dallas Cowboy tickets. If you get stopped a
second time, they make you use them.
Q. What do you call 47
millionaires around a TV watching the Super Bowl?
A. The Dallas Cowboys
Q. How do you keep a Dallas Cowboy out of your yard?
A. Put up a
goal post.
Q. What do you call a Dallas Cowboy with a Super Bowl ring?
A. Old
Q. What's the difference between the Dallas Cowboys and a
dollar bill?
A. You can still get four quarters out of a dollar bill.
Q. How many Dallas Cowboys does it take to win a Super Bowl?
A.
Nobody remembers.
Q. What do the Cowboys and a possum have in common?
A. Both play dead at home and get killed on the road!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
NFL 10 week 9 synopsis
I'm not really going to talk a lot about the Colts game.
During the second quarter, Austin Collie caught a ball only to immediately take a helmet-to-helmet hit to the side of his head.
Now I have watched a lot of football. This is one of three hits I have ever seen where I instantly started praying because I knew it was bad. One was a high school game that the kid, named JD, was STAT-Flighted to a hospital. It was scary. So was this. Collie was instantly unconscious, falling limp to the ground, except for his arms, which were stuck tightly to his chest in a way that I can only describe looking like rigor.
The ball of course squirted out from his limp grasp, but the fumble didn't count. They called it a hit on a defenseless reciever (probably should have been called a helmet-to helmet). Collie ducked from another blow coming in from the other side and didn't see the safety on his left. Him lowering his head is what caused the hit. Regardless, he was laying there lifelessly, and I was praying. "Oh God, I don't care about the game. I don't care about the season. Just let him be ok. He's just a kid."
Many of the players were praying similarly, I am sure. I cannot imagine what his mother was thinking. The trainers and doctors rushed to him. Manning and Saturday each took a knee behind them to speak to him, maybe pray. It took them several minutes to wake him, more to strap him to a board and get him on a stretcher. It was a concussion. It could have killed him, especially if his helmet had come unsecured.
In the mean time, Philly fans were booing. They wanted the fumble, not the penalty. So they booed. And booed. And booed. Way to show some compassion. This 23 year old risked his life to provide you with some simple entertainment, and you boo while doctors try to revive him? Way to show some class. I'm sure his mother appreciated your concern over a flag while she worried if her son were even breathing or would walk again.
I've said that Philly fans are the only fans that hate their own team. They treat their own team the same way. They showed a lack of character in this game. In light of a man's life, what is a game? Who gives a crap about your stupid penatly? You won the game anyway when Manning threw a bad pass (I don't know if the reciever was supposed to cut back and didn't, but there were no Colts, only Eagles, where the ball went). Next time, just shut your freaking mouths and have a moment of silence for the injured player. In other words, act with basic human decency.
Rest of the League:
Gotta say, this middle-of-the-season week did not disappoint. It had a lot of the best match-ups that could happen this season (including the Colts-Eagles game, were it not for the hit on Austin Collie putting the game in a perspective of real life).
Ravens-Fins. The team that cannot be beat on the road going to play a team that cannot loose at home. It was a good game, but the home team won.
Jets-Lions. The Sanchize vs the QB who endeared himself to the hearts of a nation by playing with a broken collar bone to make his loser team win. This was a great showcase of these two sophomore quarterbacks. These two great teams made a great matchup, with the Jets coming back to win in OT. They made several mistakes, and NYJ took out the Lions kicker, forcing them to get a defensive linemen to kick (it looked like the old days when linemen always kicked). Them missing that XPA allowed the game to go to overtime, where the Jets won.
Chargers-Texans. Wow, the chargers won a meaningful game. Unfortunately, at this time of year, the chargers usually start building momentum, get into the playoffs, and give the Colts fits.
Bears-Bills. The bills lost. Again. They haven't won yet. 0-16 anyone?
Flacons-Buccs. I called it. Now Buccs, stop claiming to be the best in the NFC. You're 3rd in you division.
Giants-Seahawks. Both Mannings played teams with green uniforms and bird mascots. Only the Giants played the Seahawks. Which are aweful.
Saints-Panthers. Panthers lost again. Shocker.
Vikings-Cards. Well, the Geezer actually managed to play the entire game this time. First time this season? And he wasn't his usual self. With the game on the line, he didn't throw an INT. Wow. That's just wierd.
Steelers-Bengals. I'm impressed that the Bungals actually made a game of this. They show sparks of being a football team for the second time this season. The rest of the time, they're just the Bungals.
Browns-Patriots. That's right. Browns-Patriots. Browns won. Pats lost. I am happy. Tom "we suck" Brady tried to make a long explanation as to why they were OUTRIGHT DOMINATED THE ENTIRE GAME. He made a shorter statement week 2. "We sucked." Just stick with that. By the way, the Browns QB Colt McCoy was AMAZING. The trick play was great, his running TD was fabulous. But their defensive goalline stand at the end of the first half is what really allowed them to win the game.
Packers-Cowboys. Anticipated to be the NFC championship before the season started. Now the Cowboys don't even try. I forgot a few things I was going to say last week and didn't, like that both players and fans kid their faces under towels. A fan held up a sign saying "at least we have the Rangers." Now they didn't even act like they were trying. Now I'm not normally for firing a coach mid-season, but when he doesn't look like he cares and neither do the players, that's a leadership issue. I'm glad they fired him, for their own sake. You know who would do good in Big D? Former TB Coach and ESPN commentator John Grueden. He could put some fire under those boys. I hate to feel like I'm giving the Cowboys advice that might help them improve though (sorry Damon and Varner)
Raiders-Chiefs. Who would have guessed that this would be the most anticipated game of the week? And it lived to expectations, including going to overtime. Both teams like their conference's West Division going into this game, but alas, playing an actually good Raiders team in the Black Hole is tough.
During the second quarter, Austin Collie caught a ball only to immediately take a helmet-to-helmet hit to the side of his head.
Now I have watched a lot of football. This is one of three hits I have ever seen where I instantly started praying because I knew it was bad. One was a high school game that the kid, named JD, was STAT-Flighted to a hospital. It was scary. So was this. Collie was instantly unconscious, falling limp to the ground, except for his arms, which were stuck tightly to his chest in a way that I can only describe looking like rigor.
The ball of course squirted out from his limp grasp, but the fumble didn't count. They called it a hit on a defenseless reciever (probably should have been called a helmet-to helmet). Collie ducked from another blow coming in from the other side and didn't see the safety on his left. Him lowering his head is what caused the hit. Regardless, he was laying there lifelessly, and I was praying. "Oh God, I don't care about the game. I don't care about the season. Just let him be ok. He's just a kid."
Many of the players were praying similarly, I am sure. I cannot imagine what his mother was thinking. The trainers and doctors rushed to him. Manning and Saturday each took a knee behind them to speak to him, maybe pray. It took them several minutes to wake him, more to strap him to a board and get him on a stretcher. It was a concussion. It could have killed him, especially if his helmet had come unsecured.
In the mean time, Philly fans were booing. They wanted the fumble, not the penalty. So they booed. And booed. And booed. Way to show some compassion. This 23 year old risked his life to provide you with some simple entertainment, and you boo while doctors try to revive him? Way to show some class. I'm sure his mother appreciated your concern over a flag while she worried if her son were even breathing or would walk again.
I've said that Philly fans are the only fans that hate their own team. They treat their own team the same way. They showed a lack of character in this game. In light of a man's life, what is a game? Who gives a crap about your stupid penatly? You won the game anyway when Manning threw a bad pass (I don't know if the reciever was supposed to cut back and didn't, but there were no Colts, only Eagles, where the ball went). Next time, just shut your freaking mouths and have a moment of silence for the injured player. In other words, act with basic human decency.
Rest of the League:
Gotta say, this middle-of-the-season week did not disappoint. It had a lot of the best match-ups that could happen this season (including the Colts-Eagles game, were it not for the hit on Austin Collie putting the game in a perspective of real life).
Ravens-Fins. The team that cannot be beat on the road going to play a team that cannot loose at home. It was a good game, but the home team won.
Jets-Lions. The Sanchize vs the QB who endeared himself to the hearts of a nation by playing with a broken collar bone to make his loser team win. This was a great showcase of these two sophomore quarterbacks. These two great teams made a great matchup, with the Jets coming back to win in OT. They made several mistakes, and NYJ took out the Lions kicker, forcing them to get a defensive linemen to kick (it looked like the old days when linemen always kicked). Them missing that XPA allowed the game to go to overtime, where the Jets won.
Chargers-Texans. Wow, the chargers won a meaningful game. Unfortunately, at this time of year, the chargers usually start building momentum, get into the playoffs, and give the Colts fits.
Bears-Bills. The bills lost. Again. They haven't won yet. 0-16 anyone?
Flacons-Buccs. I called it. Now Buccs, stop claiming to be the best in the NFC. You're 3rd in you division.
Giants-Seahawks. Both Mannings played teams with green uniforms and bird mascots. Only the Giants played the Seahawks. Which are aweful.
Saints-Panthers. Panthers lost again. Shocker.
Vikings-Cards. Well, the Geezer actually managed to play the entire game this time. First time this season? And he wasn't his usual self. With the game on the line, he didn't throw an INT. Wow. That's just wierd.
Steelers-Bengals. I'm impressed that the Bungals actually made a game of this. They show sparks of being a football team for the second time this season. The rest of the time, they're just the Bungals.
Browns-Patriots. That's right. Browns-Patriots. Browns won. Pats lost. I am happy. Tom "we suck" Brady tried to make a long explanation as to why they were OUTRIGHT DOMINATED THE ENTIRE GAME. He made a shorter statement week 2. "We sucked." Just stick with that. By the way, the Browns QB Colt McCoy was AMAZING. The trick play was great, his running TD was fabulous. But their defensive goalline stand at the end of the first half is what really allowed them to win the game.
Packers-Cowboys. Anticipated to be the NFC championship before the season started. Now the Cowboys don't even try. I forgot a few things I was going to say last week and didn't, like that both players and fans kid their faces under towels. A fan held up a sign saying "at least we have the Rangers." Now they didn't even act like they were trying. Now I'm not normally for firing a coach mid-season, but when he doesn't look like he cares and neither do the players, that's a leadership issue. I'm glad they fired him, for their own sake. You know who would do good in Big D? Former TB Coach and ESPN commentator John Grueden. He could put some fire under those boys. I hate to feel like I'm giving the Cowboys advice that might help them improve though (sorry Damon and Varner)
Raiders-Chiefs. Who would have guessed that this would be the most anticipated game of the week? And it lived to expectations, including going to overtime. Both teams like their conference's West Division going into this game, but alas, playing an actually good Raiders team in the Black Hole is tough.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
NFL 10 Week 8 synopsis
Well I feel better. We have the lead in the division for the first time since week 1 when the Colts were outright dominated from beginning to end by the Texans. Last night, we got some payback.
The first thing I want to mention is that Freeney especially seemed lethargic week 1. Last night he opened and closed the game with a sack, ending with sack-strip. He, Mathis, and Session hit Schaub all night. Hayden dominated their star WR Johnson, including going around him to get a pick 6. They also shut down the run. This defense which was dominated, pushed around, and embarrassed week 1 did some dominating, pushing around, and embarrassing. And that is with 5 starters and 1 backup injured. They got some payback.
Offensively, the O-line also refused to be dominated. Saturday and company kept Manning well protected, allowing him some time to adjust to new recievers.
In the first series, you could see the loss of Dallas Clark affecting them with three straight drops resulting in a three-and-out. After that, Tammi stepped up. Gonzalez made some big plays. Wayne, well, was Wayne. Garcon played in his usual self. And did you seem Manning's bug block? That is a guy who wants to win no matter what it takes. Not every QB would do that. Though Clark's presence was missed in that there were a few dropped balls that he would have caught, they stepped in for he and for Collie. Mike Hart earned his start because he runs with heart. I think Brown should officially be bumped to third string. I'm impressed by Hart.
Rest of the League:
Lions-Redskins. Let's get this straight. It was just stupid for Shannahan to pull McNabb for the two minute drill to win. It showed no confidence in the supposed team leader. I don't care who it was, that sack would have still happened, even if it was Manning. But, it was a poor decision for the team. Especially since your backup isn't Drew Brees or Gary Collins. It is REX GROSSMAN. The same guy we jokingly said was MVP of Super Bowl XLI, because he played so poorly. He warmed up by running, not throwing. Aparently he had watched Lions in the backfield all day. Regardless, this stupid story overshadowed the return of Stafford, who played great. Good job Lions. Sorry everyone is ignoring you.
Jags-Cowboys. .... uh.... Looking for a new coach yet? Shannahan may be available.
Niners-Broncos. One day, we might actually allow the Brits to see football teams play football.
Fins-Bengals. I'm impressed. The Nati actually managed to score.
Packers-Jets. It is hard to believe that the creative mind of Rex Ryan could not score at home. The Packers D held strong, letting 3 field goals be the only scores of the game.
Chargers-Titans. The Chargers actually won, even if they did allow a safety by the Titans, which is personally my favorite way to score because it happens so rarely. I have to say since I am not a VY fan, he was having a great game, including a big block, before he reaggrivated his ankle sprain. He was actually living up to his hype for once.
Buccs-Cards. Tampa Bay is still claiming to be the best NFC team. Until they get a big, defining win and win at least one round of the playoffs, I won't be convinced.
Saints-Steelers. For Halloween, the Saints came as the defending World Champs. For the first time this season, they showed some spark and played one heck of a game. I guess a friend here was right. He, a Steelers fan, was worried after the Browns embarrassed the Saints, that they Steelers would pay for it like the Giants paid for the Colts embarrassment in week 2.
Raiders-Seahawks. I had to laugh when the commentator pointed out that people all over the NFL were dressing up for Halloween. In the Black Hole, they always look like that.
Pats-Vikings. For Halloween, Randy Moss dressed up like a Viking (if only for Halloween), while the rest of the Pats dressed like Red Coats. Someone needs to explain to them that was the OTHER SIDE of that war. Tom "we suck" Brady showed Moss some love, and the defense showed him respect by triple covering him much of the game. How is that respect? It is a recognition of skills of a threat. That Geezer Favre was taken out, not by his broken ankle, but a cut on his face. You can tell from his stubble that he does not shave, so is not used to having cuts on his face. Maybe if he did, he would not have been carried off the field and driving off on a cart looking like he had passed out for a cut on his face. That's just rediculous. So much for Iron Man. Somebody get this guy a bandaide and some Ensure and tell him to get his butt back out there. Did you notice how the number of stitches kept climbing as they retold it. At first it was "a couple," then eight, then ten. Next thing you know the story will involve him scooping up his face into his helmet and having it sowed on. As much as he wants to blame his hurt elbow, ankle, and chin, I think this comes down to two things. 1) Favre is not happy unless he is all that is being talked about and didn't want to let McNabb have all the spotlight. 2) It isn't a bum body. It is a lack of heart. He's given up. He doesn't want to be there. Hey Childress, instead of waving Moss, why don't you wave your worthless, old, used up QB?
The first thing I want to mention is that Freeney especially seemed lethargic week 1. Last night he opened and closed the game with a sack, ending with sack-strip. He, Mathis, and Session hit Schaub all night. Hayden dominated their star WR Johnson, including going around him to get a pick 6. They also shut down the run. This defense which was dominated, pushed around, and embarrassed week 1 did some dominating, pushing around, and embarrassing. And that is with 5 starters and 1 backup injured. They got some payback.
Offensively, the O-line also refused to be dominated. Saturday and company kept Manning well protected, allowing him some time to adjust to new recievers.
In the first series, you could see the loss of Dallas Clark affecting them with three straight drops resulting in a three-and-out. After that, Tammi stepped up. Gonzalez made some big plays. Wayne, well, was Wayne. Garcon played in his usual self. And did you seem Manning's bug block? That is a guy who wants to win no matter what it takes. Not every QB would do that. Though Clark's presence was missed in that there were a few dropped balls that he would have caught, they stepped in for he and for Collie. Mike Hart earned his start because he runs with heart. I think Brown should officially be bumped to third string. I'm impressed by Hart.
Rest of the League:
Lions-Redskins. Let's get this straight. It was just stupid for Shannahan to pull McNabb for the two minute drill to win. It showed no confidence in the supposed team leader. I don't care who it was, that sack would have still happened, even if it was Manning. But, it was a poor decision for the team. Especially since your backup isn't Drew Brees or Gary Collins. It is REX GROSSMAN. The same guy we jokingly said was MVP of Super Bowl XLI, because he played so poorly. He warmed up by running, not throwing. Aparently he had watched Lions in the backfield all day. Regardless, this stupid story overshadowed the return of Stafford, who played great. Good job Lions. Sorry everyone is ignoring you.
Jags-Cowboys. .... uh.... Looking for a new coach yet? Shannahan may be available.
Niners-Broncos. One day, we might actually allow the Brits to see football teams play football.
Fins-Bengals. I'm impressed. The Nati actually managed to score.
Packers-Jets. It is hard to believe that the creative mind of Rex Ryan could not score at home. The Packers D held strong, letting 3 field goals be the only scores of the game.
Chargers-Titans. The Chargers actually won, even if they did allow a safety by the Titans, which is personally my favorite way to score because it happens so rarely. I have to say since I am not a VY fan, he was having a great game, including a big block, before he reaggrivated his ankle sprain. He was actually living up to his hype for once.
Buccs-Cards. Tampa Bay is still claiming to be the best NFC team. Until they get a big, defining win and win at least one round of the playoffs, I won't be convinced.
Saints-Steelers. For Halloween, the Saints came as the defending World Champs. For the first time this season, they showed some spark and played one heck of a game. I guess a friend here was right. He, a Steelers fan, was worried after the Browns embarrassed the Saints, that they Steelers would pay for it like the Giants paid for the Colts embarrassment in week 2.
Raiders-Seahawks. I had to laugh when the commentator pointed out that people all over the NFL were dressing up for Halloween. In the Black Hole, they always look like that.
Pats-Vikings. For Halloween, Randy Moss dressed up like a Viking (if only for Halloween), while the rest of the Pats dressed like Red Coats. Someone needs to explain to them that was the OTHER SIDE of that war. Tom "we suck" Brady showed Moss some love, and the defense showed him respect by triple covering him much of the game. How is that respect? It is a recognition of skills of a threat. That Geezer Favre was taken out, not by his broken ankle, but a cut on his face. You can tell from his stubble that he does not shave, so is not used to having cuts on his face. Maybe if he did, he would not have been carried off the field and driving off on a cart looking like he had passed out for a cut on his face. That's just rediculous. So much for Iron Man. Somebody get this guy a bandaide and some Ensure and tell him to get his butt back out there. Did you notice how the number of stitches kept climbing as they retold it. At first it was "a couple," then eight, then ten. Next thing you know the story will involve him scooping up his face into his helmet and having it sowed on. As much as he wants to blame his hurt elbow, ankle, and chin, I think this comes down to two things. 1) Favre is not happy unless he is all that is being talked about and didn't want to let McNabb have all the spotlight. 2) It isn't a bum body. It is a lack of heart. He's given up. He doesn't want to be there. Hey Childress, instead of waving Moss, why don't you wave your worthless, old, used up QB?
Monday, November 1, 2010
Wilderness
This weekend, I got to relax. How? By loading as much camping gear as I could carry and hiking into the wilderness. My friend and I called it "Man Weekend." This was the second year we had done this. Last year, another friend of ours was able to come also.
As men, it is important for us to go out in wilderness. We got away from choked cities and breathed fresh air. We hiked trails through untamed wilderness. We chopped firewood and made fire. We peed on trees. We saw stars without light pollution to hide them. We heard two owls vying for territory. We slept outdoors. We filtered water from mountain streams and ate jerky.
There is something deep in us that is called to the wild. Because God may move in the cities, but He met us in the woods. God created Adam in the wilderness and brought him to the garden. Eve was made in the garden. God met Abraham on a mountain. He wrestled Jacob under the stars. He met Moses alone on a mountain. God strengthened David in a cave. He fed Elijah by and open stream, and passed by him in an open cave. He worked with John in the dessert. He sent Jesus to the wilderness, and to a mountain grove. And he appeared to Paul not in the city, but along the road.
You do not fully appreciate Beethoven until you hear his music. You do not appreciate Michelangelo until you see his sculptures or murals. How can you appreciate the Creator without experiencing creation?
As men, it is important for us to go out in wilderness. We got away from choked cities and breathed fresh air. We hiked trails through untamed wilderness. We chopped firewood and made fire. We peed on trees. We saw stars without light pollution to hide them. We heard two owls vying for territory. We slept outdoors. We filtered water from mountain streams and ate jerky.
There is something deep in us that is called to the wild. Because God may move in the cities, but He met us in the woods. God created Adam in the wilderness and brought him to the garden. Eve was made in the garden. God met Abraham on a mountain. He wrestled Jacob under the stars. He met Moses alone on a mountain. God strengthened David in a cave. He fed Elijah by and open stream, and passed by him in an open cave. He worked with John in the dessert. He sent Jesus to the wilderness, and to a mountain grove. And he appeared to Paul not in the city, but along the road.
You do not fully appreciate Beethoven until you hear his music. You do not appreciate Michelangelo until you see his sculptures or murals. How can you appreciate the Creator without experiencing creation?
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