And the Bust Marches on . . .
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/football/nfl/05/04/benson.bears.ap/index.html
As if we needed any more proof. With the his limited production of on-field and has history of off field problems (though mostly in college), I think we all know where this train is headed. Lets go Matt Forte! I hope your legs are fresh.
NFL MOCK DRAFT. another one.
1. Dolphins – Jake Long
Alright this is a gimme. The Dolphins think he’ll solidify their left tackle position and allow Vernon Carey to move back to his natural position at right tackle.
2. Rams – Chris Long
The long drop is over and the Rams select the feel good story of the year. The hardworking millionaire heir gets a few more tacos in his pocket.
3. Falcons – Glen Dorsey
The speculation will be between Dorsey or Ryan. Most teams have this guy as the next Warren Sapp and there’s just too much riding on this pick to get it wrong (which they typically do anyway).
4. Raiders – Vernon Gholston
Will they take Darren McFadden?? No! The secret weapon Michael Bush is about to be unloaded on the NFL.
5. Chiefs – Matt Ryan
Herm Edwards gets his new Chad Pennington, a bright leader that loves to compete behind center who just doesn’t have the strongest of arms.
6. Jets – Darren McFadden
McFadden is supposedly tops on a lot of people’s draft boards, but his multiple illegitimate children and inadvertent late night drunken brawls earn him just a few less million on his first contract. The good thing is that he’s a potential star in the biggest market in the nation. Hey Thomas Jones, get ready for your next Cedric Benson. Funny how history repeats itself.
7. Patriots – Leodis McKelvin
This is a tricky pick, because the Patriots always make the non-obvious choice that always just seems to work out, a la Logan Makins. This could very well be the fast rising Brandon Albert, but I'm going with the top corner on the board after the departure of Asante Samuel.
8. Ravens – Ryan Clady
Jonathon Ogden has told the Raven to proceed as if he'll retire. They do so, and pick the most athletic tackle in the draft with the highest ceiling.
9. Bengals – Sedric Ellis
Marvin Lewis and whoever else working in Cinci thanks their lucky stars that the D Tackle they were hoping for falls right into their laps.
10. Saints – Keith Rivers
Same situation. I don't know if there's a publication out there that doesn't have Rivers going to the Saints.
11. Bills – Mike Jenkins
This pick is universally regarded as the Devin Thomas pick. No way. There's not a wide receiver in the draft worthy of this positions and Buffalo's Princeton graduate (Jauron) knows better.
12. Broncos – Chris Williams
They had hoped Clady would be here, but no dice. It doesn't always work out the way you want. But Williams isn't far off, and he fits the profile of Broncos O-linemen.
13. Panthers – Brandon Albert
Some have Albert going right to the top, I think teams will be a little discerning on draft day. He played guard in college, so can he do it? The Panthers will find out and bolster their O-line in the process.
14. Bears – Jeff Otah
Yeah, everyone and their mother's has this. Real original. But, the thing is that the Bears of done a horrible job of covering up their top need. What, is John St. Clair going to play right tackle? Seriously?
15. Lions – Derrick Harvey
Somethings are just too perfect. Derrick Harvey is going to learn how to work every down under the tutelage of Rod Marinelli.
16. Cardinals – Rashard Mendenhall
If Mendenhall falls this far, the Cards will feel like the prettiest girl at the dance.
17. Chiefs – Gosder Cherilus
They paid LJ a boat load last year and now he has no O-line to run behind. With their newly acquired second pick in the first round, they give LJ a little bit of road paving and Matt Ryan a little bit of pass protection.
18. Texans – Calais Campbell
Mario Williams now seems like the genius pick of the last few drafts. Texans double down and get his book end twin. Show him how its done Super Mario, and tackle Peyton's ass.
19. Eagles – Domonique Rodgers-Cromartie
DRC owes his cousin at least half of this signing bonus. At least.
20. Buccaneers – Brian Brohm
OK, this may be a little bit of a strange pick. The Bucs have a bunch of QB's on the roster, but at a closer look they are little more than warm bodies to fill the roster and some trade bait. Gruden and Allen just signed three year extensions and this may be the time to groom the face of the franchise.
21. Redskins – Devin Thomas
The skins have been offering up trade proposals to the Bengals for Chad Johnson and to the Lions for Roy Williams. What do you think their need is? They are ecstatic that Thomas is still on the board. This is the point of the board where the WRs should be seen more valuable.
22. Cowboys – Quentin Groves
The 'boys bolster their pass rush with a player some see as more complete than Gholston. After all, the way the Giant's fourth quarter pass rush ran over them in the playoffs should leave a lasting impression, mainly by being envious.
23. Steelers – Jonathon Stewart
Stewart becomes one of the luckiest players in the draft as he falls to the perfect team. Who knew toe surgeries could produce such wonderful results.
24. Titans – Felix Jones
McFadden's platoon mate meets his next, LenDale White.
25. Seahawks – Philip Merling
Best player available, and a great pick to start opposite Patrick Kerney if he lasts this long.
26. Jaquars – Athyba Rubin
The Jags nasty D, needs some help on the D-line after losing some good players. Rubin fits the mold.
27. Chargers – John Greco
As we move into the world of the teams that do it the right way, the Chargers take the unheralded (by the media) guard prospect that should fit right in with their pro bowl laden roster.
28. Cowboys – Malcolm Kelly
Cowboys on the board again. Can you stand it? The 'Boys are a height and speed kind of team. They want em big and fast. One outta two aint bad. Plus, Jerry Jones likes dealing with head cases.
29. 49ers – Dan Conner
This guy could do wonders for the 9ers defense. Rather than have the intellectually challenged Patrick Willis call the plays, Dan Connor comes in as a rookie leader, and lets him fly around and do what he's good at.
30. Packers – Donnie Avery
They've got the big and physical wide recievers down. Now they get their short and shifty one that can blow up their return game.
31. Giants – Kenny Phillips
Word outta NY is that this is exactly who they are targeting and no one is saying he won't be there.
BAM! Write it down. Thats how they fall. Just don't quote me on that.
It All Starts Now!
My own personal holiday is fast approaching and I’d like to share a few thoughts with you, my friends. Its April now, the month of the NFL draft. Cue the orchestral music.
The off-season has proceeded along as its supposed to: Senior Bowl, Combine, Pro Days, Free Agency, and the Owner’s Meeting. The later of which is wrapping up with week in Palm Beach, Florida. It is with the closing of that meeting that the most important aspect of draft preparation begins. The stacking of the boards, that is by the professionals, the front offices.
It’s from here on out that scouts, coaches, and general managers will spend nearly endless hours pouring over tape, arguing over potential vs. production, and avoiding sunlight at their own professional peril. The hope is that the isolation from the outside media hype machine of certain prospects can uncover the true diamonds in the rough. It’s in this final process that the draft will truly take hold.
Up until this point, its been Mel Kiper, $10.99 magazines, draft websites, and the average draftniks (like me) hitting every blog and message board on the internet to proclaim how their hero is destined to be a first round pick. Well, its April now, and its time for the cream to rise to the top. The hype may roll on outdoors here in the real and virtual worlds, but it’s the goings-on in those front offices that certainly will have some team’s fans standing table top on April 22nd, wondering what happened.
How many of us really thought that it wouldn’t be Reggie Bush drafted No. 1 overall instead of Super Mario? How could the Dolphins draft Ted Ginn with the 9th overall pick? The reason such seeming anarchy happens on draft day is because what’s going on in the media world is not necessarily what’s going on behind the doors the NFL teams. This final valuation stage will have front offices looking at their own individual needs, what players are available at the premier positions, who are the top-flight athletes, and of course, following the perennially changing trend of how to building your team (nearly always the result of how the Super Bowl team won it all).
Now, some of these questions have too many answers. But, the premier positions, though open to some debate are Left Tackle, Quarterback, Right Defensive End, and Cornerback. Those are the positions that teams will focusing on because their importance to production is so much higher. As far as the trend to building your Super Bowl team? Well, after the Bears Super Bowl, it was all about building a two running back system, and getting a ridiculous kick return specialist. So everyone ran out and got themselves two backs to spell each other, and Tedd Gin made a ton of money off of Devin Hester’s production. This year, you can expect an early run on pass rushers as team salivate over the destruction that the Giants laid on the supposedly infallible Patriots.
So, expect the final draft order to be considerably different from what you’re thinking right now. The true prospect evaluation period is just now beginning. Don’t be surprised to see some of the bulletproof prospects that you’ve been hearing about, take a tumble. Will a right tackle prospect (Jake Long) be chosen ahead of a premier left tackle prospect (Ryan Clady), maybe not. Will Darren McFadden, a 4.33 40 running back with thin legs and a penchant for off field trouble, get a taste of top 5 money? Maybe not. Will Brian Brohm, who had his best college career in 2007 really fall into the second round after being considered for a top 5 pick last year? Maybe not.
Giants Cowboys Preview
GIANTS AT COWBOYS, NFC DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF
Where: Dallas Stadium, Dallas
When: Sunday 12:00 PM
Dallas Cowboys Offense New York Giants Offense
Overall: 3rd (365.7 ypg) Overall: 16th (331.4ypg)
Rushing: 7th (4.2 yards/rush) Rushing: 3rd (4.6yards/rush)
Passing: 3rd (97.1 QB Rating) Passing: 24th (73.0 QB Rating)
Dallas Cowboys Defense New York Giants Defense
Overall: 9th (307.6 ypg) Overall: 7th (305.0 ypg)
Rushing: 13th (4.0 yards/rush) Rushing: 4th (3.8 yards/rush)
Passing: 5th (75.1 QB Rating) Passing: 17th (83.4 QB Rating)
Did you know . . . The New York Giants are 8 -1 on the road this year, with their only loss being to the Dallas Cowboys. New York was swept by the Cowboys this year. This will be the 18th time that two teams have met in the playoffs after one team swept the other. Going back to 1990, no Number 1 seed has lost in the Divisional round.
Injuries: NYCB Kevin Dockery – Out, NYCB Sam Madison – Doubtful, NYWR Plaxico Burress and DAWR Terrell Owens – Questionable, NYTE Kevin Boss. Plaxico Burress has been limited in practice all week, and did not participate in the Thursday practice. Terrell Owens has not participated in a practice until this Thursday, after which he was still limited. TO has claimed that he is going to play in this game. He has recently suffered a high ankle sprain, which takes a six week rehabilitation by normal humans. The injury allows you to walk and even jog without pain or with a limp. But, all explosion is gone. The second you try to push off, the pain is excruciating. Regardless of pre-game speeches, TO will not be playing in this game, at least not more then as a decoy.
HOW THEY MATCHUP
Tony Romo leads his troops into playoff battle for the second time in his young career. Last year he ended his team’s run on a botched field goal snap. While Romo has put together an impressive season, he has not finished well. In his last three games, his QB ratings have been 22.2, 81.2, and 34.9. Those types of number don’t cut it in the playoffs. And the teams playing their best football heading into the playoffs have the edge. Without his star wideout on the edge, Romo just hasn’t been the same. If TO really is nothing more then a decoy this week, look for the Dallas QB to struggle. One the other side of the field is the oft ridiculed, Elisha Manning. Has he ever lived up to his draft status, has he ever rewarded the Giants for the bounty they gave up to get him. Likely not. But, he is playing very good football down the stretch. Last week against the leagues No. 1 pass defense, Elisha completed 74% of his passes for 185 yards and two touchdowns. Statistically, not off of the charts but he did make plays in the game, and no mistakes. His Week 17 mark was a 117 QB rating. Say what you will about his past, Eli is playing good playoff football, and should he continue his march, his team just might make some history, with an unexpected upset of the NFC’s No. 1 seed.
Each team uses an excellent Running Back Tandem. In NY, theirs is the 6-4, 264-lb beast of a runner, Brandon Jacobs and his small, speedster companion, Bradshaw. The Cowboys have Julius Jones, an overrated Notre Dame graduate and Marion Barber, former college teammate of Lawrence Maroney. Both teams have a power and speed combination and should be equally effective, with quality play from the quarterbacks.
If you are going to make it this far into the season, you likely get quality play from you lines, offensive and defensive. The Giants offensive line is huge, but it is effective, technically sound, and mean. The Cowboys on the other hand do have a huge O-line and can wear team’s down over the course of a game. Both team’s offensive lines will be tested, but the Cowboy’s will be particularly under the spot light. New York’s pass rush has played on another level for most of the season, and has lead the league in sacks. Osi Umenyiora, Michael Strahan, Justin Tuck, and Kawika Mitchell should have their names called early and often in this contest as they batter and abuse the Cowboy’s star QB. If not, this will not be a game for the Giants to win. Both team’s defenses are at the top of the league and should pose problems on all three levels for the other side of the field.
Goose’s Go-Ahead
History says that the Cowboys will win this matchup. But, I think something special just might happen this Sunday. I don’t see the Cowboys making it past this one. I don’t think that TO will be a factor if he suits up at all. I don’t think that the Cowboys will be able to hold off the Giants pass rush, and I don’t see Romo having the game that he will need to have as a playoff quarterback. Elisha just might have a game worthy of a Number 1 overall pick. Big Blue wins it in a big upset.
Cowboys 14, Giants 31
Week 14 - Bears at Redskins Preview
Quick commentary on last week’s loss (and these conversations are rarely conducive to anything) . . . the Bears should have won. Not because of some boneheaded play, or a Rex Grossman turnover, or anything like that. But, because of an A-hole named Walt Coleman, a dairy farmer from Little Rock, Arkansas. He is also NFL referee number 65, who is most famous for the tuck rule decision of the 2001 AFC Championship game between the Oakland Raiders and New England Patriots. Many fans regard him as the worst referee in the league, and you can include me in that crowd. In the final half of the game, Coleman made two crucial decisions that essentially handed a tight game to the New York Giants. Play Number 1: A ridiculous penalty. The Bears are driving down the field with 13:56 to go in the third quarter with a ball that Derrick Ward from the Giants fumbled away to them. From the Giants 11, Adrian Peterson has a four-yard gain on a 2nd and 8. Little Rock calls a 15-yard personal foul penalty on Terrence Metcalf for kneeing a Giants player. If you watch the replay, this is a non call. The linemen push and pull all day long. The Giant’s player probably didn’t even notice anything happen. Ridiculous call that killed a very promising drive. Play number 2: Eli Manning, pass to Amani Toomer in the end zone with 6:59 remaining in the 4th quarter, ruled incomplete as it was a low pass the appeared to “one-hop” into Toomer’s chest and waiting hands. Tom Coughlin challenges the ruling on the field. Several slow motion replays show the ball arrive to Toomer, barely off of the ground, and then bound up into his chest, seemingly from the ground, as hands don’t have that affect at that angle. NFL rules require indisputable visual evidence to overturn a call on the field. Keep in mind that the official is looking at the same replays that fans watching TV are and that the original call was an incompletion. Judging by the angles of the shots they were showed on TV, and my extensive knowledge of physics, the fact that this play was overturned is insanity. This was a third down play, and if called correctly would have likely resulted in an easy field goal try from the six-yard line. My mind says that Coleman had his money on the Giants this week.
Moving on to more substantive things. The Bears meet the Washington Redskins on Thursday at 7:00PM, central. If you are in Chicago you can catch this game on either the NFL network or local channel 50. But if you are outside of either these markets, don’t expect to see the game unless you have the NFL Network.
Despite the doom and gloom surrounding Sunday’s loss to the Giants, the Bears are actually still in the playoff hunt. After all they are only one game out of the sixth and final playoff seed position. The sixth seed is currently held by the Arizona Cardinals at 6-6. There are two other 6-6 teams (Minnesota and Detriot) and five, 5-7 teams including the Bears. That’s a lot of teams vying for one spot and the Bears will likely have to win out to hope to even have a shot. That being said, you have to wonder, at this state of the season, what is the point? If, excuse me, IF the Bears make it too the playoffs, how far could they really go? Coming from a fan you hope that they just lose out and secure the highest draft position that a 5-11 record can get you (usually somewhere in the 4 to 7 range). As a professional, the NFL athletes and coaches are endlessly competitive animals. While their play may not always be inspiring, they will give it their best shot, and should win a few more before the season is over.
The Redskins are ranked third in their division with a 5-7 record, and are similarly on the outside looking in. However, the bottom line is that this is a team in disarray at this point. Their defensive leader (and best player on the team), Sean Taylor, was just killed in his home by four burglars. The funeral was held on Monday, and the ‘skins have to find a way to prepare for a Thursday night game while traveling back and forth to Miami to attend the services. The Redskins have lost two straight to the Buccaneers and the Bills. A match up against the Bears doesn’t look too promising as the Redskins apparently have problems with the B-teams. Ba-dum-pum.
I think that you can throw all statistics and history out the window. Emotion is bound to unravel this team. I expect a very physical and undisciplined game by the Washington Redskins. Hopefully, the Bears will be able to capitalize. There is a giant whole in center field now that Taylor is gone. The other safety is LaRon Landry, a rookie first round pick, and Reed Doughty, a second year player. If there aren’t some opportunities down the field for any of our receivers, I’d be shocked.
Goose’s Go-Ahead
The Bears will dominate an emotional and mistake prone Washington team. Going by the history, this will be a very low scoring affair. But I’m not going by history. The field will be wide open, with some nice highlight plays on both sides of the line of scrimmage, with the Bears ultimately winning.
Bears 31 Washington 24.
Postscript – this go ahead presumes that Walt Coleman will not be officiating this week’s game.
Bears at Giants Preview
The Chicago Bears at the New York Giants
This week’s column will be unfortunately brief (and late) due to some on-going work non-sense. Who needs to work anyway? Football is life, what am I doing for 8 hours a day? Anyway . . .
This weeks match-up, with playoff implications for both teams, is important to both teams, but for different reasons.
The New York Giants have seemed to be one of the strongest NFC contenders for a wild card spot all season, assuming that they don’t catch up to the 10-1 Dallas Cowboys. They started off the season slow with an 0-2 start but raced off to a five-win streak that ended with a match-up against the Cowboys. The Giants wins this season come against the Redskins, Eagles, Jets, Falcons, 49ers, Dolphins, and Detroit. None of these teams are considered elite and point-of-fact, four of them are vying for worst team in the NFL. So, while there seven wins look impressive their overall play has not been. Point-of-fact, this is a redemption game for the New York Giants who look to proof that last weeks embarrassing loss to the Minnesota (less Adrian Peterson) Vikings at 41-17 was just a fluke, and not emblematic of a playoff pretender. The Giants have seemed to follow the same trend of the past few seasons under the direction of Eli Manning. The trend starts with Manning starting off hot, numerous media comparisons to Peyton, and assertions that this is Eli’s breakout year. But it seems to end with a un-Peytonesque melt down by the younger brother at the end of the season that puts the team in a downward spiral. If the Vikings smashing win was any indication, history may be repeating itself.
The Bears have been at odds with themselves all season. Underwhelming play and inconsistency mark the season, and is the primary reason for the Bears disappointing 5-6 record. But, in the NFL, you get what you deserve. The Bears are a 5-6 team and fans and media need to get off the Superbowl-caliber rhetoric. That being said, the Bears are doing their best to reel off some wins at the end of the season and make a problematic playoff push that can possibly save some players’ jobs in the offseason that will likely be cut as a result of the 2007 implosion. Lovie Smith has charged the team with finishing the season on a six-game win streak. Can they do it? That will be the on-going question that will be asked Sunday, as the Bears produced the first win of the (hopeful) streak last week in a come from behind victory against the Denver Broncos. Was this win a sign of things to come as the Bears dig deep to produce some wins along with Devin Hester’s highlights?
Goose’s Go-Ahead
Make no mistake that both teams can win this game, and I suggest that there should be even money here. Key factors to the game will the New York’s homefield advantage, the Giants superb pass rush combo, the Giants beat up and under-experienced secondary, the loss of Cedric Benson, Rex Grossman’s pocket presence, the Chicago’s offensive line pass protection/run blocking, and field position. When it’s all said and done the one person that we know has ALREADY created a positive position for the Chicago Bear’s is Devin Hester. Teams have been wary to kick to him all season and Denver’s mistakes last week will pay dividends for the Bears this week. The Giants will avoid kicking the second-year phenom at all costs. Kick-offs will likely be returned to at least the 40-yard line due to either penalty or squib kicks to the up men. Punts will likely be shanked as much possible. By the way, Jeff Feagles’ in on a streak of 377 punts without a return TD, one of the longest in NFL history. So, you know that he will do everything in his power to extend that streak. Special teams are a key part of the Bears game plans, obviously, and should provide the edge this week. Grossman’s struggles are well documented. But, a shortened field all day will provide him with enough opportunities to drive his field into scoring position. The Bears defense, while not great, is still steady and should hold their own. Because in the game of field position, if one team has a short field, the other team has a long one. Look for some turnover potential too as I think that Eli will continue his melt down, and not really care either way.
Bears 20 Giants 17
Week 11 - Seahawk's Profile
PROFILE: SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
Where: Qwest Field, Seattle
When: 3:15 PM Sunday
Where the Seahawks Stand: The Seahawks are 5 – 4, with a 4 -1 record at home. They are in sole possession of first place with a one game lead over the Arizona Cardinals.
Seahawks Head Coach: Mike Holmgren
Seahawks Offensive Coordinator: Gill Haskell
Seahawks Defensive Coordinator: John Marshall
Seahawks Special Teams Coach: Bruce Dehaven
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Chicago Bears Offense |
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Seattle Seahawks Offense |
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Overall: 24th (295.8 ypg) |
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Overall: 12th (341.9 ypg) |
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Rushing: 32nd (3.0 yards/rush) |
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Rushing: 29th (3.4 yards/rush) |
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Passing: 27th (69.5 QB Rating) |
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Passing: 10th (88.6 QB Rating) |
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| Chicago Bears Defense |
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Seattle Seahawks Defense |
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Overall: 21st (340.0 ypg) |
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Overall: 11th (315.8 ypg) |
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Rushing: 26th (4.5 yards/rush) |
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Rushing: 13th (3.9 yards/rush) |
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Passing: 22nd (89.2 QB Rating) |
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Passing: 4th (72.3 QB Rating) |
Did you know . . . both the Chicago Bears and Seattle Seahawks were both division winners last year.
Injuries: Brian Griese, Tommie Harris, Hunter Hillenmeyer, Fred Miller, Nathan Vasher, and Darwin Walker have not practiced. Safety Brandon McGowan was limited in practice due to an elbow condition. The Seahawks have not published their participation as of yet.
SCOUTING THE SEAHAWKS Quarterbacks The Seattle Seahawks are lead by Pro Bowl quarterback Matt Hasselbeck. Matt is a ninth year player that is actually putting together a good statistical season based on his past performance. Thus far, he’s completed 62.5% of his passes for 2301 yards, while connecting on 15 touchdowns and 8 interceptions. He is on pace to pass for nearly 4,100 yards on the season and his 89.3 quarterback rating is the second highest of his career. The Seahawks have leaned on Hasselbeck all season and will continue to do so this Sunday, as the ‘Hawks are 24th in the league in rush attempts per game. The reliance on the team’s passing prowess is due partly to their quarterback’s veteran savvy and partly to the lackluster performances of their running backs. The focus is on a short rhythmic passing game, which is typical of the West Coast Offense. Expect to see multiple receiver sets from Seattle as Hasselbeck spreads the ball to a number of receivers and tight ends on short and intermediate throws.
Running Backs
The team hitched its future to Shaun Alexander with a franchise-type contract in 2006. However, many Seahawks fans and NFL analysts are feeling a bit let down by his performance since. This year, his 149 carries have gone for 492 yards (3.3 yards/carry) and 2 touchdowns. In the 8 games that he’s played in, he is averaging only 61.5 yards per game. This represents a sharp decline in the level of play from a back that just two years ago rushed for 1880 yards on 370 carries, the highest workload of his career. As has happened with so many workhorse backs in recent years, with a huge workload like that, his best days may well behind him. Alexander appeared in only 10 games last season, and has been injured this season while sitting out last week. The final nail in the coffin of a previously brilliant career may be that he’s 30 years old (typically, the starting line for the twilight years of so many running backs’ careers). He has not practiced this week according to media reports, and will not until Friday. Don’t expect to the 5-11, 228 lb running back on the field on Sunday. The back-up, but current starter, is Maurice Morris, a 6th year player out of Oregon. He’s similar in build to Alexander at 5-11 and 216 lbs, but appears shorter on the field. His production has also been similar at a 3.9 yard per carry clip, while scoring one rushing touchdown and one receiving touchdown. Maurice will be used to establish a running game, but the Seahawks will likely not be able to sustain it, which has been a weak point all year. However, a large part of this is due to poor execution by a declining offensive line.
Offensive LineLining up left to right will be Walter Jones, Rob Sims, Chris Spencer, Chris Gray, and Shaun Locklear. The anchor of the group is Jones, the franchise and future hall of fame left tackle. While the group fairs well in pass protection, it is disappointing in run blocking. Mike Holmgren recognizes this, and it is evident in their statistical output. The team is 8th in the league in passing, but only 21st in the league in rushing. The weakest link is Chris Gray, a 15th year player at RG. The Bears defensive line will need to create a consistent inside push to force Hasselbeck into pressure throws. On a positive note, the offensive line protects the cleanest playing unit in the league. The Seahawk offense has been flagged only 32 times for 215 yards all season. ReceiversThe receivers on the team are all slightly above average, and there is good depth. But, a little bird has told me to watch out for DJ Hackett, a 3rd year player out of Colorado. At 6-2 208 lbs, he does the dirty work of the unit while working over the middle and out of the slot. He now starts for the ‘Hawks opposite Deon Branch, whom they acquired from the Patriots for a first round pick. The receiving unit will be working their normal slant and crossing routes, trying to create mismatches and exploiting coverages with short to intermediate routes. The burner in the group is Deion Branch with 22 receptions for 343 yards, but only one touchdown. The tight end threat is Marcus Pollard, and has shown himself to be good for one to two catches per game.
Defensive Line
While the offense is the least penalized unit in the league, the ‘Hawks defensive unit (overall) is the 4th most penalized in the league.
The Seahawks defensive unit is one of the most under-rated in football. They are second in the league in total plays allowed, second only to Pittsburgh. And they are ninth in the league in third down conversions. Meaning: that they aren’t allowing long drives. Couple this with an overall +6 turnover margin for the team, the third best unit in the league for sacks, and you have a formidable defensive unit. The line is comprised of hardworking pass rush specialist LDE Patrick Kerney, rookie DT Brandon Mebane, UT Rocky Bernard, and RDE Daryl Tapp. The defense doesn’t get its due maybe because of the geography of the team, but make no mistake these guys can hit, run, and tackle. The line is a quick front that is excellent in upfield pressure, a definite disadvantage for the Rex Grossman led offense.
LinebackersThe linebackers are the playmakers of the group, accounting for 10 sacks and 9 forced fumbles, but only one interception. Leroy Hill mans the strongside, Lofa Tatupu defends the middle, and Julian Peterson roams the weakside. They are all fast to the ball, and are adept at creating pressure and turnovers. The Chicago offensive line will have to be on assignment against the pass rushing linebacker, Peterson who has gathered 8 sacks on the season, which is tied for 6th in the league. SecondaryThe secondary is solid unit with Marcus Trufant (a former first round pick) and Kelly Jennings at cornerback, while Deon Grant and Brian Russel are the safeties. The safeties are both heavy hitters at about 6-2 and 215 lbs each. Trufant is the most talented corner on the team, and has the size and quickness to run with Berrian or other receiving threats deployed by the Bears. The target in this group should be #21, Kelly Jennings. If Ron Turner can get Musin or one of the tight ends lined up against him, it could be a favorable mismatch for the Bears due to Jennings small size. Due to some over aggression on defense, there may be some opportunities in the secondary for Grossman, as the ‘Hawks are 20th in the league in passing yards per game. But don’t expect the Bears to be going too deep, as the secondary is third in the league for preventing the big play. They play in the standard Cover 2 shell, and are hell bent on keeping the plays in front of them. Goose’s Go-Ahead
The bottom line is that the Seahawks are a passing offense, with an average run game. The quarterback is one of the best in the league and can make plays all over his homefield. The Bears defense has, for insufficient reason, been under-performing all year. On offense, it appears that the Seahawks will continue to mount points, while an under-appreciated defense will keep the Bears offense on the field for short unproductive periods. Further, few teams have such a distinct home field advantage as the Seattle Seahawks. The organization has challenged the fans to be the loudest in the league and they put in their effort, weekly. Also, this will be the Bears second road trip to the West Coast in as many weeks, which typically doesn’t bode well from a production standpoint. The saving grace for the Chicago Bears may be that Seattle is coming off of a short week from their Monday night game, and maybe not be in rhythm either. In my estimation though, that doesn’t cut it for the Bears. Is see Seattle scoring more points than the Bears, and in the NFL that usually means you win.
Seahawks 24, Bears 7
Bears Opponent Profile: Detroit Lions
PROFILE: DETROIT LIONS
Where: Soldier Field, Chicago
When: 12:00 PM Sunday
Where the Lions Stand: The lions are 4 – 2 and are a game behind the first place Green Bay Packers. They will be looking to keep pace with them and send their rival Bears further down the ladder.
Lions Head Coach: Rod Marinelli
Lions Offensive Coordinator: Mike Martz
Lions Defensive Coordinator: Joe Barry
Lions Special Teams Coach: Stan Kwan
| Chicago Bears Offense |
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Detroit Lions Offense |
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Overall: 26th (301.7 ypg) |
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Overall: 16th (328.5 ypg) |
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Rushing: 31st (3.2 yards/rush) |
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Rushing: 14th (4.2 yards/rush) |
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Passing: 26th (71.3 QB Rating) |
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Passing: 9th (89.1 QB Rating) |
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| Chicago Bears Defense |
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Detroit Lions Defense |
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Overall: 25th (357.4 ypg) |
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Overall: 30th (385.8 ypg) |
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Rushing: 26th (4.6 yards/rush) |
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Rushing: 15th (4.0 yards/rush) |
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Passing: 25th (94.1 QB Rating) |
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Passing: 26th (94.8 QB Rating) |
SCOUTING THE LIONS Quarterbacks
Lions QB Jon Kitna guaranteed his team would win 10 games this year before the regular season started, and he’s doing his part in terms of helping to make that prediction come to fruition. The veteran signal caller has made some significant progress in his second season in offensive coordinator Mike Martz’s pass-oriented system, completing 69.5 percent of his passes for 1,480 yards and tossing eight touchdowns and six interceptions en route to helping the Lions start 4-2. To put its current record in perspective, Detroit won three games total in 2006. While he has some talent to work with, Kitna’s production is impressive when considering the poor protection he receives from his offensive line and lack of running game the 34-year old quarterback has to work with. However, the reemergence of Kevin Jones should bolster the teams run game.
Running Backs
The Lions have the seventh-ranked (by yardage) passing offense in the NFL, but their running game is another story. To say Detroit’s ground attack has been ineffective would be an understatement. The Lions are producing just 85 yards via the ground game per contest this season, which has them ranked 27th in this particular category. For most of the season, Detroit’s primary ball carrier has been Tatum Bell, who was acquired via a trade with Denver during the off-season. While he hasn’t posted great numbers, Bell is considered a player that can break a big run at any time. Kevin Jones, a first-round draft pick in 2004, is coming off a “Lisfranc” foot injury that cost him the 2006 season. He hadn’t been the same player and was seeing limited carries, but is coming back into form. Jones has rushed for 167 yards on just 39 carries (4.3 avg.) and three touchdowns. Last week, the Lions informed Jones that he would be their primary mail carrier from here on out. Last week against the Bucs, Jones displayed the power and cutting that earned him his high draft status. With a healthy rotation, the Detroit run attack should improve with Jones as the lead. Chicago’s defense ranks 26th against the run, and have not been the same team from last year’s championship run. They allowed Philadelphia’s potent ground game to gain 123 yards on 25 carries (4.92 yard average) last week. The Bears can’t afford to let the Lions’ resurgent ground game get going. They need to make Detroit’s offense one-dimensional and force Kitna to beat the Bears with his arm.
Receivers
Lions head coach Rod Marinielli is well versed in the Bear’s defensive scheme, seeing as both he and Lovie Smith are Tampa Bay imports. Marinielli likely will give Martz some pointers on how to attack the Cover 2 scheme, which is the same system Marinielli has implemented in Detroit. Kitna likely will throw the ball quite a bit in this contest at the Bears depleted secondary. He has a talented group of receivers to work with, which includes Roy Williams, Mike Furrey, Shaun McDonald and Calvin Johnson. The stars of this group are the team’s two former top ten first round picks, Williams and Johnson, but in reality all four are extremely productive. The Lions likely will feature plenty of three-receiver sets in this game, which means the Bears could really use cornerback Nathan Vasher, who is still not practicing and unlikely to play. Furrey has caught 21 passes for 260 yards (12.4 avg.) but is still looking for the end zone in 2007. McDonald is a former St. Louis Ram and has great speed and familiarity with Detroit’s offense, which has allowed him to catch 24 passes for 287 yards and three touchdowns. Johnson, who was the No. 2 overall draft pick in April, is coming along but hasn’t cracked the starting lineup. He’s caught 13 passes for 229 yards and three touchdowns. However, his 6-foot-5, 239-pound frame gives him a sizeable advantage over smaller defensive backs. Expect Charles Tillman (6-1) to be matched up on Johnson when he’s on the field. With Vasher out of the line up the Bear’s back-ups will struggle to contain this stable of receivers, as they lack the size, ball skills, and speed to match up with them. Kitna likely will go up top to the athletic rookie a few times in this game. Chicago’s front seven needs to limit Detroit’s ground game in order to leave safeties Adam Archuleta and Daniel Manning back in coverage. Archuleta and Chicago linebackers Hillenmeyer and Urlacher will also need to help contain Lions tight end Sean McHugh, who has hauled in seven passes for 98 yards. Despite having arguably the most talented group of wide receivers in the NFL, Detroit’s offense is converting just 29 percent of its third downs this season (31st in the league).
Offensive Line
Detroit’s offensive line features left tackle Jeff Backus, left guard Edwin Mulitalo, center Dominic Raiola, right guard Damien Woody and right tackle George Foster. Mulitalo and Foster were added in the off-season after Detroit gave up a whopping 63 sacks in 2006, but this unit still is struggling in terms of run blocking and pass protection. Detroit is rushing for just 85 yards per game and has surrendered 31 sacks in six games, which comes out to over five quarterback takedowns per game. This is good news for the Bears, whose defense is allowing opposing offenses to convert only 37 percent of their third down attempts (7th in the league) this season. Backus is the offensive line’s best player, but even this former first-round pick isn’t playing well. Although the Bears defensive line is injured and will likely be missing some back ups, their starters should be able to get some traction against this group. Backus’ recent woes should bode well for Bears defensive end Mark Anderson, who is as fast as they come off of the corner. Kitna has the arm and the receivers to make the Bears pay if they give him a comfortable pocket to throw out of.
Defensive Line
Detroit has a talented front four that is made up of defensive ends Dewayne White and Kalimba Edwards and defensive tackles Cory Redding and Shaun Rogers. The 6-foot-4, 340-pound Rogers plays the nose tackle position in Detroit’s version of the Cover 2 scheme, which is now led by former Bucs linebackers coach and new defensive coordinator Joe Barry. Needless to say, Rogers commands double teams quite often. Bears center Olin Kruetz and left guard Ruben Brown (assuming he plays) will likely team up to keep Rogers at bay in this contest. Redding became the highest-paid defensive tackle in the NFL during the off-season, but he hasn’t lived up to that contract so far this season. In fact, he’s still looking for his first sack, which is a big disappointment since Redding often times finds himself in one-on-one matchups with the opposing team’s guard. Bears right guard Robert Garza will be charged with holding off Redding on passing downs and driving him off the ball on running plays. White, has been inconsistent this season. He’s notched 4.5 sacks, but struggled at times against the run. However, White has playmaking ability, evidenced by the fact that he’s forced two fumbles and recorded an interception. He will go up against Bears veteran right tackle Fred Miller. John Tait will be matched up with Edwards, who has recorded two sacks through five games. Detroit’s defense is giving up an average of 117 yards rushing per game, but Chicago might not be able to capitalize on this unit’s suspect play against the run because of their own problems. The Bears starting running back (who shall remain nameless) has been ineffective, as has been discussed and displayed throughout the season.
Linebackers
Detroit’s linebackers possess good speed, which is a necessity in any successful Cover 2 scheme. Lions second-year weakside linebacker Ernie Sims is Detroit’s version of Lance Briggs. He has great speed and is a tackling machine. In addition to leading the team in tackles, Sims has recorded one forced fumble and an interception this season. Strongside linebacker Boss Bailey also has speed, but lacks playmaking ability. The middle linebacker spot, which is occupied by Paris Lenon, is considered suspect. As talented as this group is, the linebackers have not been consistent in terms of helping the Lions defense shut down opposing teams ground attacks. Chicago is hoping tight ends Desmond Clark and Greg Olson, can play well in this contest in order to give quarterback Brian Griese two reliable targets in the passing game. With a healthy dose of Clark and Olson, Detroit’s outside linebackers likely will have a difficult time covering the middle and deep middle.
Secondary
The Lions are surrendering 269 yards per game through the air, which makes their secondary 30th in the league in terms of yardage. Bears quarterback Brian Griese has a penchant for throwing interceptions, and the Lions defense has come up with nine of them, so the veteran signal caller will have to be careful with the ball. Detroit cornerback Fernando Bryant has recorded one of those picks. He will have the opportunity to intercept more passes as Griese likely will work the passing game early and often. Bernard Berrian is Chicago’s speed threat, and appears to have a favorable match up with Bryant, who lacks size but is considered a good tackler. The Lions would prefer to leave safeties Gerald Alexander and Kenoy Kennedy back in coverage to help account for Berrian, but they’ll have to bring one or both of those players up into the box if the Bears find a way to get the running game going. Alexander has recorded one interception this season. Detroit’s starting cornerbacks rank third and fourth on the team in total tackles. While they both are willing to play the run, both Bryant and Wilson also get tested by opposing team’s quarterbacks quite often. That’s exactly what Griese likely will do in this game. The key for the Bears in this contest will be to keep the chains moving. The Lions are allowing opposing offenses to convert 46 percent of their third downs this season. Not only will it need to score points, Chicago’s offense simply can’t afford to leave its defense on the field all day with Detroit’s potentially potent offense.
The Gustafson Go-Ahead
Although, I’ve been warned against it. I am going to continue to make score predictions here. This will be an offensive shoot out with the Bears constantly looking to catch up on their home turf. I’m going against the fan inclination and say the Lions take this one. However, if the Bears can find a way to actually run the ball, they could turn this around. Being the diligent sports reporter that I am, I decided to do some scout work last week and watched the Tampa Bay and Detroit game. Tampa dominated the time of possession game, and by the end of the contest Lions defenders were littering the field with injuries (including Shaun Rogers bum ankle). If Cedric Bumson can pretend like he actually cares about the game, the Bears could put a hurting on the Lions defense and mute the Lions wideouts.
Here’s betting against Bumson: Bears 21, Lions 31.
Bears Week 7 - Eagles Profile
PROFILE: PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Where: Lincoln Financial Field (“The Linc”), Philadelphia, PA
When: 3:15 PM, Sunday, October 21, 2007
Where the Eagles Stand: The Eagles are currently in last place in the NFC North division, they are 3.5 games out of first place. Their two wins this season have been against the Detroit Lions (Week 3) and the New York Jets (Week 6)
Coverage: Dick Stockton & Merril Reese(play by play), Brian Baldinger (color)
Eagles Head Coach: Andy Reid
Eagles Offensive Coordinator: Marty (F’n) Mornhinweg
Eagles Defensive Coordinator: Jim Johnson
Eagles Special Teams Coach: John Harbaugh
| Chicago Bears Offense |
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Philadelphia Eagles Offense |
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Overall: 28th (287.7 ypg) |
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Overall: 9th (352.2 ypg) |
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Rushing: 27th (82.7 ypg) |
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Rushing: 10th (131.0 ypg) |
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Passing: 28th (66.2 QB Rating) |
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Passing: 12th (87.9 QB Rating) |
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| Chicago Bears Defense |
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Philadelphia Eagles Defense |
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Overall: 26th (149 Total Points) |
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Overall: 5th (82 Total Points) |
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Rushing: 26th (4.6 Yards/Rush) |
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Rushing: 9th (3.8 Yards/Rush) |
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Passing: 26th (94.6 QB Rating) |
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Passing: 5th (73.3 QB Rating) |
Did you know . . . . Andy Reid and the Eagles have won their last five games against the Bears. Also, Andy Reid was the (F’n) Packers WR’s and TE’s coach from 1992 – 1998.
Injuries: Brian Dawkins (Safety/neck) and L.J. Smith (TE/Hernia) have not participated in practice. Tackle Tra Thomas (knee) has been limited in practice. Though listed on the injury report, Shawn Andrews (Guard), Reggie Brown (WR), Greg Lewis (WR), and Lito Sheppard (CB) have all participated in practice. For The Bears: Tommie Harris and Nathan Vasher have not participated in practice this week. Ruben Brown and Darwin Walker have been limited in practice.
SCOUTING THE EAGLES
Quarterbacks
Donavon McNabb’s play this season speaks to the overall Eagles’ play as a team: inconsistent. On the season, he’s thrown for 1,120 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. However, 4 of those touchdowns came in one game, and that was against the Lions in Week 2. In case you were wondering what the Lion’s pass defense is like, well its 30th in the league (and that is consistent). As you may recall, McNabb suffered a leg injury late last year requiring surgery and off-season rehab. He is accurate at times, but something is off for a quarterback that is in the prime of his career and historically is a shoe-in for the Pro Bowl. When he’s on his game, he is one of the best, creating plays out of nothing, making multiple reads, scrambling, scoring touchdowns. But, so far he’s not at mid-season form and that is very good news for the Bears. In fact, this year, if someone on the field isn’t in some horrible colored throwback uniform, the Eagles have yet win game. So, here’s hoping that the Bears don’t decide to wear those prison break-orange jerseys.
Running Backs
Brian Westbrook. For most teams, it’s the QB that is the face franchise. Hell, that is the case for the Eagles too. But the legs, back, shoulders, and guts are Brian Westbrook. Last week, the Bears were charged with stopping Adrian Peterson to secure a win (oops). This week is no different, and no easier. Brian Westbrook is listed at all of 5’ 10” tall (I didn’t know they stacked shit that high, I think he’s trying to squeeze an inch in on me somewhere). No matter, he’s terrific in open space and between the tackles, and Andy Reid uses him in a multitude of ways. He’ll be lined up everywhere from tailback to wide out. Although, the overall offense has been spotty, he has still rushed for 411 yards and two touchdowns adding another 177 yards and one touchdown trough the air. Westbrook sat out Week 5 with an abdominal strain, but returned last week and rushed for 120 yards and looked like he hadn’t missed a beat. The Eagles are heavy on the screen pass, and they run it with great guise. With the attention paid to Westbrook, the Eagles also have a wicked play action. His back-up is Correl Buckhalter, a slightly larger back that is more of a power runner. Buck doesn’t have Westbrook's moves, but he is effective. He has even been considered for starter duty in past years. Rookie Tony Hunt has seen limited action.
Receivers
The Eagles have gotten their yards in chunks this year, mostly in Week 2 against the Lions (seeing a trend here). No matter, the main headache has been identified: Kevin Curtis. Curtis, a 5th year player, was a slot receiver in the St. Louis offense, where he backed up Isaac Bruce and Tori Holt. This year, apparently, he’s looking to make a name for himself. His Week 2 performance against the Lions was an all out highlight reel day for Curtis, posting 11 receptions, 221 yards, and 3 TDs. His only other TD of the season was last week against the Jets. Curtis has been the most productive in their two wins this season and has big play ability (see his touchdowns from 68 yards and 75 yards for proof). The other receivers include Reggie Brown, Greg Lewis, Jason Avant, and Hank Baskett. All the receivers are average in height and weight at best, and in some circles considered weak. The Eagles run the classic West Coast Offense as promulgated by the late great Bill Walsh (Andy Reid being on of his many disciples). It’s a rhythm based offense that requires receivers to be in certain spots, as the QB will anticipate their arrival. This is easily disrupted by jamming the receivers at the line of scrimmage. The Bears have physical cornerbacks that can’t be afraid to jam these wideouts. Excepting Curtis, there isn’t a blazer in the bunch.
Tight End L.J. Smith has been terrific for this team. However, he has missed three weeks this season due to surgery and came back to play against the Jets last week. He is not practicing right now, should play, and should not be a factor. He had one catch for eight yards last week.
Offensive Line
From left to right, Tra Thomas, Todd Herremans, Jamaal Jackson, Shaun Andrews, and John Runyan man the O-line. The symptoms of any offense’s illness are often traced back to this source. This offense has been similar to the Bears in that the have been terrifically ineffective at times. Tra Thomas . . . Shaun Andrews . . . I’m a believer. However, the left guard, center, and right tackle are suspect. John Runyan entered the league in 1996, and is well past his prime. On passing downs, the Bears should think about lining up Mark Anderson against this aged veteran and set the cameras for record. Outside of these starters there seems to be little depth/ability. Two weeks ago, with Tra Thomas out of the game, second year player Winston Justice gave up SIX SACKS against the Giants. The Bears need to treat this O-line like other teams