You Can't Spell Elite Without Eli

With all the hoopla in the NFL revolving around Peyton Manning and the horrific season the Indianapolis Colts are having without him, the league has payed little attention to Peyton's younger brother Eli Manning who's having himself a stellar year to say the least and is flying under the radar while doing it. Eli the younger of the Manning brothers by four years made a strong case to be considered among the game's elite quarterbacks this past Sunday by defeating Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in their own stadium, leading the Giants on a game-winning drive with just seconds to spare. The 24-20 win in Foxborough was reminiscent of Super Bowl XLII when Manning led his team on a similar drive against these same Patriots, finding a wide-open Plaxico Burress in the end zone with less than a minute remaining to eventually defeat and upset the Patriots by a final score of 17-14.

After failing to avenge their loss in what's been known as the biggest upset in Super Bowl history, New England fell to 5-3 on the year tying them with the New York Jets. Meanwhile the other New York team the Jets share their home stadium with improved to an overall record of 6-2 on the year giving them a two game lead over the rival 4-4 Dallas Cowboys in the NFC Eastern Division. With an above average defense that's notorious for pressuring the quarterback and a running game just as strong as the passing game when both Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs are healthy I think the New York Giants are the one team that can cause trouble for the Green Bay Packers who at 8-0 are currently looking at a bid at a perfect season. Though Aaron Rodgers and the Packers still have to face the daunting task of playing the Detroit Lions twice this year, if anyone can out duel or play up to par with Rodgers I think it's Manning. We'll find out if that's the case as both teams are slated to meet in Week 13 @ New York.


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Detroit sports back on the map

In the midst of this recession, no city in the United States has felt the wrath of the economy collapse more than the city of Detroit. Among the worst unemployment rates in the country, there's little to cheer for in the Motor City. The sports scene, however, in Michigan's largest city has never been better. While the Detroit Red Wings are almost guaranteed to make a push for the Stanley Cup playoffs as always considering they've made a North American professional sports record 20 consecutive playoff appearances, hoisting four Stanley Cups in that span, it's the other Detroit based teams who have been creating quite the buzz.

Coming off a 3 games to 2 triumph of the New York Yankees in the ALDS, the Detroit Tigers have muscled their way into the ALCS (American League Championship Series for you noobs) to face the defending American League Champion Texas Rangers. And though they trail Texas 2 Games to 1, the series has shifted to Detroit for Games 4 and 5. The biggest surprise, however, is that of the football team -- the Detroit Lions. Having been the laughing stock of the NFL for years, the Lions have not only shocked, but have silenced the critics thus far by way of their first 5-0 record since 1956. The Lions claimed their most recent victim last night in front of a national audience on Monday Night Football, defeating the division-rival Chicago Bears by a final score of 24-13.

While the high draft picks of Matthew Stafford, Jahvid Best, Ndamukong Suh, Nick Fairley and Calvin Johnson aka Megatron among others were bound to pay off, nobody thought the Lions of all teams would be the only undefeated team in the league alongside the defending Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers heading into Week 6. Hoping to improve on that mark, Stafford and company will have their hands full this Sunday as they get set to host a revamped 49er squad that has also surprised and has been clicking on all cylinders since the hiring of former Stanford head coach Jim Harbaugh. With both teams benefiting from a greedy defense, a low scoring affair is almost inevitable, but with both squads also among the leagues highest scoring offenses, I wouldn't rule out the possibility of a high scoring game either.

Coming into the season, who would've thought the 49ers and Lions would be a combined 9-1 after the first 5 Weeks? Not I. The Lions are indeed for real, but I'm not ready to jump on the bandwagon just yet. Not because their only route to make it to the Playoffs is through the Wild Card assuming Green Bay wins the division, but for the simple fact that the Lions aren't a Playoff-ready team...yet. Keep in mind this is the same Detroit Lions franchise that finished the 2008 NFL season with an imperfect 0-16 record. And while Stafford to Johnson appears to be the reincarnation of Montana to Rice, the dynamic duo can only get them so far. But that doesn't mean we can't enjoy riding the wave while it lasts. In fact I encourage it given it's somewhat of a breath of fresh air seeing someone not named Eminem or Kid Rock putting the 'D' back on the map.

Panthers Crown Newton To Lead The Way

One of the more intriguing story lines this NFL season is that of this year's number one overall draft pick and former Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton. Despite his poor performance during the Panthers' preseason, Carolina head coach Ron Rivera has decided to give Newton the nod over last year's second round draft pick and fellow quarterback -- Jimmy Clausen. While starting 10 games last season for the Panthers, Clausen saw little success and was unable to spark Carolina's offense through the air as the team eventually went on to finish the season with a league-worst record of 2-14.

Though the franchise is coming off a season to forget, their torrid 2010 campaign allowed them to pick first overall in the 2011 NFL Draft, a pick in which they used to snag Cam Newton who led Auburn to a National title. Hoping to make Newton their starting QB for the long-term, feeding him to the lions by having him begin his career with little to no professional experience isn't the ideal thing to do, but with Clausen and Derek Anderson behind him on the depth chart there really isn't that veteran presence around for him to learn from. With Pro Bowler's at both the wide receiver (Steve Smith) and tight-end positions (Greg Olson and Jeremy Shockey), Newton will have some weapons to target. However, the kid has a lot to improve on as his bumpy preseason performance indicated.

While his throwing accuracy has been mediocre at best, he has shown a strength when running and has grown comparisons to Mike Vick. Making Newton's job a little easier will be Carolina's dominant run game led by one of the more lethal tandems at the running back position in DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Both of which will ease the workload of Newton on offense. Unfortunately for him though, he finds himself in what's become one of the more difficult divisions to win in the NFC South with the young rising talent of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who surprised everyone by finishing 10-6 last year. They've also gotta deal with the lethal Atlanta Falcons who many are predicting to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl this year. And finally there's the New Orleans Saints who are only two years removed from winning their first ever Super Bowl and are looking to avenge their early exit from the Playoffs last season.

Though I don't see Newton struggling as much as everyone else is predicting him to, I don't envision him making the Panthers any better than a three game improvement (5-11). While the talent level is certainly there, I expect Newton to be a long experiment until he fully develops into a successful NFL QB. Newton and the newly looked Panthers will get their first test on Sunday at 1:15 as they head to Arizona to take on the Cardinals.

Fashion Police cracks down on Dez

With the 24th pick in the first round of last year's NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys selected Dez Bryant out of Oklahoma State. Within days of his arrival to training camp, the standout wide receiver was an instant hit amongst Cowboy fans. And if it wasn't for the combination of St. Louis' Sam Bradford who nearly turned a 1-15 Rams team just a year ago into a Playoff contender and an injured ankle suffered by Bryant in week 13, we could very well be looking at last year's Rookie of the Year. But even with the impressive numbers Dez accumulated despite the insufficient playing time, his off-the-field issues would often overshadow his rookie campaign.

Dating back to as early as April of 2010 before being drafted, Bryant has been an unfortunate victim of numerous incidents, first starting with his infamous pre-draft interview where he was asked about his mothers past and most notably if she was a prostitute. The shenanigans continued when he refused to take part in a long-lived Cowboys tradition of carrying the pads of veteran players during training camp, followed by an injured ankle during practice. And of coarse, who could forget the $860,000 he's being sued for after allegedly taking jewelry without payment. However, none of the above compare to his most recent episode.

While spending a day at the North Park mall popping some tags and reenacting the Fabolous 'Just throw it in the bag' music video, Bryant along with his posse, were strolling around the mall when suddenly they were approached by a security guard who asked them to pull up their sagging pants. The request angered Bryant who began to make a scene and responded with profanity which eventually led to them being kicked out of the mall. What should have ended there, then escalated to the parking lot where Bryant's entourage parked in a red zone, refusing to leave. The mischievous acts eventually landed the Cowboys wide-out a 90-day ban from the mall, along with a trespassing warning.

With the whole NFL lockout thing going on, I don't expect Cowboys owner Jerry Jones to comment like he usually does, but this can't paint a pretty picture for the Oklahoma State alum. As for the man himself, Dez who commented on the subject, agrees. "I know how much I mean to the people of Dallas," Bryant said. "I feel like the people of Dallas give me a lot of love. I want to make them proud." If that's the case, he's gotten off on the wrong foot, entering only his second year in the lone star state. Luckily for him, he won't have to resort to buying sneakers online for long, as his ban from the mall is expected to be dropped sometime this week, pending an approval from officials. Perhaps next time he makes a trip to the outlet, he'll buy some belts for him and his crew.

Though he claims he plans to clean up his act, something tells me this won't be the last of Dez Bryant's head shaking adventures. So until next time, wear a belt kiddies!

The Palmer Situation

In sports nowadays, it's quite often you hear or read about a disgruntled player who's dissatisfied and fed up with where he plays or where he's headed to after a trade, but never have we seen a situation made as publicly as the one in Cincinnati involving QB Carson Palmer. Following their disappointing last place finish in the AFC North this past season, the Bengals Quarterback requested a trade, only to have it denied the next day by the team's president. Several months later, no progress has been made between the two parties and both sides are sticking to their guns. Despite Palmer threatening to retire from the game of football if he isn't traded come the start of the 2011 season, developments as recent as today says the team still has no intentions to deal their 2-time Pro-Bowl QB.

Although the retiring part sounds like somewhat of a joke, the former Heisman Trophy winner isn't bluffing and says he has $80 million stashed away in the bank, according to a friend of his. This unknown friend of Palmer's quoted him on a local news station in Cincinnati as saying, "I don't have to play football for money. I'll play it for the love of the game, but that would have to be elsewhere." Though the Bengals front office hasn't flinched yet, unless they've got a trick up their sleeve or plan on selecting a QB in this year's Draft, I suggest they act fast considering their roster lacks on the depth chart at the Quarterback position. Carson's younger brother Jordan and former college standout Dan LeFevour fill out the Bengals' number two and three spots in the QB department, but neither are seasoned enough to take the starting job, despite LeFevour's outstanding college career at Central Michigan where he set the record for the most total touchdowns in NCAA history.

With the 2011 NFL Draft a little more than a month away, there's still plenty of time for the Bengals to reconsider holding onto Palmer, and with the 4th overall pick, I won't be surprised if they take Cam Newton or Blaine Gabbert granted either is available. And if they do, the demand for a QB will be that much greater considering both names are atop many teams' lists. One of the handful of teams who were linked to landing Palmer when trade talks first surfaced, were the San Francisco 49ers. And as a die hard fan, I wouldn't mind acquiring Palmer one bit for the simple fact that it would mean the end of the Alex Smith regime. But even if 49ers owner and team president Jed York was unable to land Palmer, other trade options for a QB include Philadelphia's Kevin Kolb and Vince Young of the Titans, both of whom are younger than Palmer. In Tennessee, the Titans front office and Vince Young appear to be in a similar predicament as the Bengals, other than the retiring part of coarse.

Hell, at this point, perhaps even the lockout could benefit both parties in working something out. Team's remain unable to trade with one another at this point, but maybe the sun will come out of the clouds and Palmer and the Bengals will work something out. But until then, I'm sticking with my gut feeling and think Cincy will end up eating their words and dealing him in due time.

Bears Bounced Out Of Playoffs, Cutler Watches

After the Bears' 21-14 loss at home in the NFC title game to the Green Bay Packers, QB Jay Cutler is taking heavy criticism regarding his play and health. Trailing 14 to nothing in the third quarter with only 80 yards passing to show for, Cutler was pulled from the game in favor of back-up Quarterback Todd Collins. What seemed to be more of a mechanic issue or struggle to find his rhythm, turned into a more serious injury than first thought, as it's been learned that Cutler has a torn MCL in his left knee. With Cutler sidelined prior the injury was officially announced, it wasn't long before players and fans alike began bashing Cutler over Twitter, as he became a trending topic on the social network within minutes.

Unlike those questioning whether or not he was hurt, Cutler's teammate and defensive captain LB Brian Urlacher came to his QB's defense, as did Bears head coach Lovie Smith, stating that Cutler was indeed hurt and not faking his injury. Having been the most sacked QB in the league this season, leading the NFL with a whooping total of 52 sacks, including a career high 9 sacks against the New York Giants earlier this year, there's no doubt Cutler has had his fair share of cuts and bruises since the start of the season. Cutler's toughness shouldn't necessarily be questioned, based on that stat alone, despite the arguments former and current QB's such as San Diego's Philip Rivers recently made. "I would've played until I had to be carted off the field, but that's just me." Rivers said.

Though he's been bombarded with the widespread skepticism, I personally can't attack Cutler, but I will make the case that players in the past have remained in the game after suffering more severe injuries, such as Donovan McNabb who returned to the field after suffering a broken ankle in 2002. For Cutler, a 2008 Pro Bowler during his tenure with the Denver Broncos, the biggest disappointment has to be the sour ending to his impressive season in which he bounced back from a disappointing 2009 campaign when he threw 27 Touchdowns to go along with a league leading 26 Interceptions for a 7-9 Chicago Bears team. Improving off his forgetful season just a year ago, Cutler helped the Bears to a division leading 11-5 record by compiling 23 TD's and 16 INT's, resulting in a better QB rating, despite throwing for fewer yards.

Even with Cutler out for most of the second half on Sunday, the Bears hopes of making it to Super Bowl XLV were anything but over, as third string Quarterback Caleb Hanie took over for the injured Todd Collins. Down 14-0 in the fourth quarter, Hanie led the Bears offense to a touchdown during his first series on the field. After a costly pick-six to defensive lineman B.J. Raji, Hanie moved Chicago down field for another score to bring the Bears within seven, before a late Sam Shields interception with less than a minute remaining ended the possible rally, sending Green Bay to their first Super Bowl appearance since 1997.

Cowboys Endruing Early Problems

With the 24th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, the Dallas Cowboys select -- Dez Bryant out of Oklahoma State University. Less than a month after signing with the Cowboys, rookie wide-out Dez Bryant is already causing problems within the clubhouse by refusing to continue a long standing team tradition that has lived on longer than Dez has been born. That tradition just so happens to be carrying the pads of veteran players. And in his case, it was fellow wide receiver Roy Williams' pads who Bryant was assigned to carry. "I was drafted to play football, not carry pads." Said Bryant. The story eventually hit tabloids and was talked about on SportsCenter along with every other major sports media outlet before Bryant criticized the press for blowing the incident out of proportion.

You can't argue the passion and commitment he has for the game of football, but considering it's common rookie hazing and those before him have done it including the games best, he might as well continue the ritual. Or who knows, maybe a player will take it the wrong way and purposely hurt the kid. It's unknown if the acts were on purpose or not, but that's exactly what happened. During practice at the teams training facility, Bryant was injured on a routine passing drill. Backup QB Jon Kitna threw a ball intended for his rookie WR, when cornerback Orlando Scandrick broke up the pass before landing on Bryant's leg. After being helped off the field, an MRI revealed a high ankle sprain in Bryant's right foot. The injury will sideline Bryant for up to 4-6 weeks and will cause him to miss the rest of camp, including valuable practice that won't be made up in time and could prove to be costly for a rookie WR that will be under the microscope due to playing in Dallas. The good news is he should be back in time for the season opener.

Back to the controversy surrounding the injury, could there be a possible conspiracy that follows? Cowboys owner Jerry Jones believes so and thinks the players were going too hard too late in the practice and the injury could have been avoided. Whether or not it all links back to Bryant's refusal to carry another players pads, Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips made it clear that he doesn't approve of any sort of rookie hazing. The defender in the midst of it all, however, downplayed the incident like anyone else fighting for a job. Karma or not, the injury couldn't have came at a more crucial time as the Cowboys finish up the final half of preseason and prep for the upcoming 2010 regular season that sees 'America's Team' as a potential favorite with home field advantage if they can make it to the Super Bowl, given the game will be played in their very own Cowboys Stadium. Granted they haven't played in the big game since 1995, could this be the year they reach the promise land?

The Decision Part II

Coming soon to a stadium near you, is the Decision Part II starring the ever aging Quarterback Brett Favre. With most sports fans still recovering from the hangover LeBron's televised decision has led to, we've been given almost no time to prepare for the sequel. Making its fourth appearance in as many consecutive offseasons is the talk of Brett Favre retiring. Rumors had it the 40 year old QB was calling it quits after reports were in that text messages were sent from Favre's phone to a number of his Vikings teammates regarding his decision to hang it up after 19-seasons in the NFL. But after what many are considering to be his best season ever, compiling 4,202 passing yards, 33 touchdown passes and a career best 7 interceptions and a 68.4 completion percentage, it would be hard to believe. And it doesn't help that he's faked a retirement before either.

The only thing slowing him down? His ailing ankle which underwent surgery this past offseason after being hit below the waist and getting tortured in the NFC Championship game by the eventual Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints. Vikings head coach Brad Childress and kicker Ryan Longwell who has been a friend & teammate of Favre's for 10 years dating back to the time the two spent together in Green Bay, both said they didn't receive any text messages or heard from Favre himself regarding his rumored retirement. Whether or not those rumors were true, the Vikings showed their true desperation and began taking precautionary measures by increasing their offer to Favre for a $16 Million guaranteed salary with another $4 Million in incentives. The new offer is an increase of the previous $13 Million he was offered. However, Favre said he would play if healthy and state his decision had nothing to do with money as usual. How many times have we heard that before?

After giving the Vikings a specific time frame to announce his decision, a rare visit to the teams training facility with friends and teammates took place after Steve Hutchinson, Jared Allen, and Ryan Longwell all took a private jet to Favre's Mississippi home to help make his decision to return for a 20th season a little bit easier. The signing comes several weeks after Favre's last sighting that saw him throwing passes to a group of High School players. With the newly announced grandfather on their on their squad again, the Vikings along with those who bet on sports share a sigh of relief. The effect Favre has on the team was seen not only in training camp with the media or the lack there of, but also in sports books around the globe as their chances of winning the Super Bowl next season dropped drastically when curiosity was in the air regarding Favre's return. But now that he's officially back, the only question still lingering is, if his surgically repaired ankle will hold up for another season?

NFL No-No's

Back to his old antics - Two big no-no's took place recently regarding two NFL defensemen, one former and one current. It was learned several weeks ago that Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor was arrested on rape charges after police raided a Holiday Inn hotel and found the 51 year old Taylor with a 16 year old run away female prostitute. According to the girl who was paid $300 for sex, she was dropped off at Taylor's hotel in up-state New York and was struck by her pimp. Taylor faces numerous charges such as third-degree statutory rape which is a felony and third-degree patronizing. Both of which are related to the girl being a minor. The rape charge carries a maximum of 4 years in prison and the prostitution charge carries a maximum of 1 year in jail.

While Taylor's bail is set at $75,000 and his preliminary hearing is set to take place on June 10th, Taylor's attorney says he denies all charges. However, he's not the only one being convicted as a second man, 36 year old Rasheed Davis, was arrested on charges of unlawful imprisonment, assault and endangering the welfare of a child. Police say Davis drove the girl to Taylor's hotel and told her she had to have sex with him. Police went on to say Taylor cooperated with officials and that he was not intoxicated as no drugs or alcohol were found in his hotel. Police gained knowledge of the girl's whereabouts when she began sending text messages to her uncle who later called and sent for the police.

Shockingly, this isn't Taylor's first run in with the law or controversy. Drinking played a huge role in his party lifestyle, but his obsession with crack cocaine would do a brunt of the damage. LT failed a number of drug tests in 1987 before later checking into rehab, only to be arrested twice over a three-year span for attempting to buy cocaine from undercover officers. Taylor also claims he would hire and send prostitutes to opponents' hotel rooms the night before a game in attempt to tire them out. LT was also arrested in November of 2009 for fleeing the scene of a car accident.

Taylor, who's married and has three children, was once upon a time the most feared defeseman in the entire NFL and is often regarded as the greatest defensive player of all-time. The 10-time Pro Bowl LB who spent his entire 13 year NFL career with the New York Giants, was named a First-Team All-Pro on nine separate occasions from 1981-89 and a Second-Team All-Pro once in 1990. Taylor won three NFL Defensive Player of the Year Awards along with one MVP Award and helped lead the Giants to two Super Bowl Championships before being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and having his number retired. With everything that's been going on and continuing to deteriorate what's left of Lawrence Taylor's public image, I doubt we'll be seeing him on ABC's 'Dancing With The Stars' or those Nutrisystem ads anytime soon...


Cushing's failed test - Maybe not as severe as rape charges, Houston Texans linebacker Brian Cushing will be suspended for the first 4 games of the 2010 NFL season for testing positive for having elevated levels of hCg in his system. The hormone was detected in a drug test in September of 2009 and violates the NFL's performance-enhancing substance policy. Cushing, the winner of last season's Defensive Rookie of the Year Award, was in danger of having the award stripped away by the AP. But after a revote, the former USC Trojan received the most votes again, retaining his award. Aside from earning NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors, Cushing was also named a starter to the 2009 Pro-Bowl and was an All-Rookie Selection.

Welcome to Miami

Just a little over a year ago on April 2nd of 2009, the Denver Broncos made the biggest splash in the NFL offseason by trading their 2008 Pro-Bowl Quarterback to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a mediocre Kyle Orton and a handful of draft picks. And now that we're in the 2010 offseason, just a week prior to the first day of the 2010 NFL Draft, the Broncos put their name in the hat for the biggest offseason move yet again. Yesterday afternoon it was announced that the Broncos had traded their 26-year old WR Brandon Marshall to the Miami Dolphins. In return, the Broncos acquired Miami's 2nd-Round picks in both the 2010 and 2011 NFL Drafts.

The Broncos and their now former talented young wide-receiver haven't always seen eye-to-eye, as Marshall and Broncos head coach Josh McDaniels have had numerous altercations, one including Marshall being benched for the final game of the regular season last year, for failing to arrive for a physical therapy session on time. The Broncos went on to lose the game and ended up missing the playoffs for the fourth straight year. Something else Marshall and the Broncos organization failed to get on the same page about, was their agreement to a long-term contract Marshall had been seeking. A multi-year deal was something the Dolphins had no problem agreeing to, as both ends agreed to a 4-year, $47.5 million dollar deal hours after the trade. The near $50 million dollar deal makes it the richest WR contract in NFL history.

With the acquisition of Marshall, who has caught 100-receptions in three consecutive seasons, the Dolphins are now a threat in both the ground and air attack. Most notably known for executing the wild-cat offense/formation, the Dolphins now have someone who can scare off a defense when passing. After all, Marshall's 2009 season total of 10-touchdown receptions is just two less than the total of the entire 2009 Dolphins team that finished with only 12. Marshall's presence in the AFC East will also guarantee a match-up with New York Jets' CB Darrelle Revis not once, but twice a year. When being asked about facing his new rival and the 2009 AFC Defensive Player of the Year, Marshall joked around by saying, "What's the island called, Revis Island? I just got married, maybe we'll honeymoon there."

Referring to Revis' self-proclaimed nickname for his spot on the playing field "Revis Island" for his ability to play one-on-one with opposing receivers. As Marshall is regarded as one of the top receivers in the game today, Revis is regarded as the best cornerback in the NFL. With both players now in the same division as well as on opposite ends, the match-up between the two is one that many including myself are looking forward to. With Marshall now out of the Mile High City and Brady Quinn in, it'll be interested to see where the team goes from here. Whether or not they're rebuilding is yet to be known, given Marshall is still young himself. But even with the bright young WR now playing elsewhere, will the result turn out to be positive, similar to results of the Cutler trade?

With the way Marshall acted in last year's training camp, batting down passes and punting balls, I'm surprised anyone was willing to make a trade for him. But he did make up for it by contributing to a lot of Denver's early season success. With 5-years on his contract, Miami is praying Marshall doesn't decide to bring that same attitude with him.

Heads or Tails?

In New Jersey, something as small as a coin toss has angered an entire fan base. In walking distance from the old Giants Stadium, a new playing field is being built and is set to open its doors for the 2010 NFL season. The only problem is, there's two teams calling the new state of the art stadium their home, causing quite the controversy in terms of who will be playing their first. NFL commissioner Roger Godell made the decision by flipping a coin to determine who will get to show off the new venue first. & Guess who won. That's right, the Giants. With the win of the good old fashion coin toss, the New York Giants will play the first regular season game at the new Meadowlands Stadium, while the Jets are stuck watching from a television screen.

With one of the two organizations excited, the other is left disappointed to say the least. Since sharing stadiums with their New York counterparts, the Jets have been seen as the little brother to the Giants. And now that their moving to a new stadium not named after the G-Men, things don't seem to be starting off any different. Hopefully for the Jets, the grass will be much greener in the new stadium, considering since the Jets made the move to Giants Stadium in 1984, they've been yet to bring home the Lombardi Trophy. While the Giants on the other hand, have obtained 3-Superbowl rings. If you ask me, I say a match-up between the two should take place as the first ever game played at the new Meadowlands stadium, but noooo, that would make too much sense now wouldn't it?

Luckily for Gang Green, the Jets will get to take the field for the first time the following night for their home opener on Monday Night Football, less than 24 hours after the Giants break the stadium in on Sunday. Like its predecessor, the new stadium will be the only NFL stadium shared by two teams. However, unlike Giants Stadium in which the Jets were a junior partner, the new stadium will be a 50/50 partnership between both NFL teams. The new stadium will seat 82,500 fans, including 10,005 club seats and approximately 218 luxury suites, making it the third largest NFL stadium in total seating after the Washington Redskins' FedEx Field and Cowboys Stadium in Arlington. As seen in the movie 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' Giants Stadium will soon be no more and will be vanished, this time with the thanks of a wrecking ball.

Bears Go On A Shopping Spree

Continuing the plethora of offseason moves in the NFL, the most coveted player in all of free agency has found a place to play. Coming off an 8-year tenure with the Carolina Panthers, defensive end Julius Peppers signed a six-year contract worth $91.5 million dollars with the Chicago Bears. Also adding to their roster, former Viking running back and back-up of Adrian Peterson -- Chester Taylor, who signed a four-year, $14.1 million dollar contract. However, Chicago's shopping spree didn't stop there as tight end Brandon Manumaleuna also signed via free agency, helping solidify the Bears as one of the busiest teams this offseason.

The addition of Peppers alone makes the Bears defense a strong one and will be sure to keep the opposing quarterback on his toes at all times. Peppers is a 5-time Pro Bowler and is the Panthers all-time sacks leader, having tallied 81 total sacks. Along with line backer Brian Urlacher, the Bears have one of most feared defensive duos in the game. But that's if Urlacher can stay healthy. The 2005 NFL Defensive Player of the Year underwent surgery last season after dislocating his wrist in the 2009 season opener, causing him to miss the entire season. Similar to Chester Taylor's role in Minnesota, he'll play a back-up role behind another good RB, Matt Forte. As for TE Brandon Manumaleuna, he will be joining one of the top young tight ends in the game today -- Greg Olsen, in what I'm guessing will be a back-up role as well.


Lucy, I'm home! - Also finding a place to call home, is former Cleveland Brown Derek Anderson. The 26-year old QB signed a 2-year, $7.25 million dollar deal with the Arizona Cardinals earlier today. Anderson will be competing for the starting job with 2004 Heisman Trophy winner -- Matt Leinart. Leinart, who seen brief action at the starting position behind Kurt Warner, will be alongside Anderson fighting for the job much thought would be his a long time ago. In spite of leading the USC Trojans to a BCS National Championship in 2004, and becoming the school's all-time leader in career touchdown passes and completion percentage, Leinart is yet to play to his potential. With Kurt Warner retired and now out of the picture, could this be his year? Derek Anderson sure hopes not.

Other Key Additions: FS Marlin Jackson to the Philadelphia Eagles, S Antrel Rolle to the New York Giants, RB Larry Johnson to the Washington Redskins, and QB David Carr to the San Francisco 49ers.

Happy Trails x Derek Anderson

Express Yourself - Have you ever said something to someone and then tried to take it back like you didn't mean it? That's something former Cleveland Browns QB Derek Anderson can relate to. Upon being informed of his release by the team on March 9th, Anderson made sure he didn't go quietly. "The fans are ruthless and don't deserve a winner. I will never forget getting cheered when I was injured. I know at times I wasn't great. I hope and pray I'm playing when my team comes to town and (we) roll them." The frantic Anderson said, referring to an knee injury he sustained during the 2008 season in a game against the Colts. But just one day later, the Oregon State Beavers all-time leader in career touchdowns and passing yards, tried taking a different approach.

After putting his team of 5-years on blast, Anderson seemed a bit apologetic towards the fans he called "ruthless", hoping to take back all he said. "Those of you who got to know me personally from covering the Browns over the past five years, know this was out of character for me. I wasn't taken out of context, but I was speaking out of frustration after my career with the Browns came to a close. I had some great times playing in Cleveland, especially during the 2007 season, and I met some great people and made many lifelong friends along the way. I'm looking forward to starting a new chapter in my life." Anderson's first full year in 2007 seen him throw for 29 touchdowns and 19 interceptions, helping pave the way to a Pro-Bowl, capped off by a 10-6 record for the Browns. But since his Pro-Bowl season in '07, Anderson has seen little success. Inconsistency would then become a factor for the Browns QB as injuries came into play.

After 7 starts in 2009, Anderson would own a 42.1 passer rating to go along with a dismal 3 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. All of which resulting in his departure. The 26-year old is expected to gain interest from several teams and rumor has it he will be paying a visit to both Arizona and Seattle later this week. As for the Browns, the team has acquired both Jake Delhomme who was recently released by Carolina, and former Seattle back-up QB Seneca Wallace who was picked up in a trade. However, the QB possession isn't full just yet, as the Browns are hoping to get their hands on either Notre Dame's Jimmy Clausen or Oklahoma's 2008 Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford who is projected to be the number one QB taken in this year's NFL Draft. But with the 7th overall pick, the chances of landing Bradford are slim.


Breaking News: The Cleveland Browns have parted ways with Brady Quinn as well, sending him to the Denver Broncos in exchange for Full-Back Peyton Hills, a 6th round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft and a conditional late-round pick in the 2012 Draft.

The Chronicles of Favre's Retirement, ACT III

To retire or not to retire, that is the question! - Now that the Minnesota Vikings are officially eliminated from the Playoffs, the ongoing and never ending rumors of Brett Favre's possible retirement come into play. After Favre's Vikings failed at an attempt to book their trip to Miami for this year's Superbowl by losing to the New Orleans Saints, Favre told ESPN's Ed Werder "It's unlikely I'll return" when being asked how this game will effect his decision to play next year. Yeah, like we haven't heard that before. I refuse to fall for and believe anything that comes out of Brett's mouth regarding his retirement and I'm sure the world will agree with me. However, if Favre does decide to finally hang it up and live up to his words of retirement, it'll mean his legacy would end on an interception. Then again, that's been the case in all of his last 3 seasons.

Favre's final pass as a Packer, Jet and Viking have all resulted in interceptions and could possibly be the reason why he keeps coming back for more. It would be a sour ending to the long 18 year career Favre has had in the NFL and I know I wouldn't want my final pass to be a pick. But with the shots the 40 year old QB took in last Sunday's game against the Saints defense and for him to still return in the game after injuring his left leg, I don't think we'll ever see the end of number 4. & If he does decide to return for a 19th season, it's likely he'll make us wait on the edge of our seats and announce his return towards the end of training camp or just days before the regular season starts. Even though his team came short of Superbowl XLIV, Favre set playoff records for pass completions and passing yards. Both records that were previously held by the great Joe Montana. So sit back, relax and get a few tubs of pop-corn ready while Brett Favre gets set to lead us on another edition of journeying through his 'false retirements'.

Goodbye Giants Stadium x Hello Meadowlands

In the final game to be played for the Giants at Giants stadium in New York, the team bid farewell to the stadium they called home for 33 years. However the farewell ended on a rather sour note as the Giants were blown out by the Carolina Panthers, 41-9. The 9 points New York put up was a disappointment to say the least, especially after swamping the Redskins on the road the week before by scoring 45 points and 38 points in week 14 against the Eagles. A pivotal game that New York lost, giving the Eagles sole possession of 1st place in the NFC East. The loss on Sunday also put the Giants hopes of making the playoffs on life support, pending the result of the Dallas Cowboys - Washington Redskins game. Dallas went on to win the game 17-0, eliminating the Giants from playoff contention.

What looked to be a promising start for the Giants, after starting the season strong going 5-0, then took a nose dive as the Giants then lost five straight, becoming the second team in NFL history to do so. Although the Giants wouldn't struggle much afterwards, the losing streak put a damper on their playoff hopes, making things in the division tighter than they should of been. Now with a 2010 season to look forward to and a new stadium to call home, New York sports fans have got to be thinking ahead as the New York Yankees did the same thing the year before. After failing to make it to the postseason in their final year at Yankee stadium, the Yanks kicked off their inaugural season at the New Yankee stadium on a championship note by popping champagne and bringing home their record 28th World Series tittle.

Since calling Giants Stadium their home in 1976, the Giants have went on to win 3 Superbowl Championships. The crosstown rival New York Jets on the other hand haven't been so lucky. Since 1984, the Giants and Jets have shared the stadium, but only the Giants have had success. Could it be the name perhaps? Although the stadium is officially called 'Giants Stadium', Jets fans will argue that they'd rather prefer to the stadium as the 'Meadowlands'. No matter what they call it or how much they like playing there, they'll have to call it home for another year as they look to open the gates for another season in 2010. With the Jets still in contention for a playoff spot, could New York's other team keep the stadium alive and finally bring some magic before the wrecking ball comes a knockin?

Sorry Saints x December to Remember for Dallas

Playing football in the chilly month of December is always a crucial task. But none have been any more crucial than those played by the Dallas Cowboys. You would think playing in-doors during the wintertime would be an advantage, but it hasn't been. The Cowboys who haven't had a winning record in the month of December since 1997 , have been notorious for rolling over and dying in the last month of the year. However, on the first Saturday night game of the 2009 season, the Boys responded in the biggest of ways by knocking off the previously unbeaten New Orleans Saints by a final score of 24-to-17.

Like many, although I'm not a fan of the Saints, you almost wanted to see them finish the regular season and head into the playoffs & perhaps the Superbowl on an undefeated note. Instead, the Indianapolis Colts remain the only unbeaten team in the NFL. Heading into the month of December, the remaining schedule for the Saints and their plans for perfection was in their favor. & With the 13-0 Saints playing at home, hosting the team that's been known to fall apart in December, it couldn't have been any easier for Drew Brees & company...So they thought. Whether the Saints were unprepared or the Cowboys were underestimated, the Saints picked a bad time to lose by surrendering their first defeat to the Cowboys of all teams. But just like the saying goes, "No game in the NFL is an easy one, regardless of who your opponent may be."

Even though the Saints quest for perfection is now out of the question, their plans of making it to and winning the Superbowl are still in tact. Still weeks away from the playoffs, the Saints are easily favored in the NFC, as no other team matches up on paper. The Minnesota Vikings who looked to be a possible scare have somewhat fallen off the radar by losing in back to back Sunday Night match-ups on the road to both the Arizona Cardinals and the Carolina Panthers. The Indianapolis Colts however should have their work cut out for them in the playoffs this year. Two other teams worth mentioning are the San Diego Chargers who are currently riding a 9-game winning streak and the Tennessee Titans who just happen to be right back into playoff contention since Vince Young's promotion after starting the season off 0-6. But with a 7-7 record, the Titans will be one of the many teams fighting for the AFC wild card.

As the final weeks of the 2009 NFL regular season edge closer, the playoff picture begins to take shape. & With the Colts still eying a perfect season having already clinched a playoff berth, many are asking whether or not the Colts should start their starting players or bench them to keep them fresh and healthy for the playoffs. Which brings me to ask, what would you do?

Noteworthy: Season firsts for the Saints included their first loss and the first time they failed to score three touchdowns. The Cowboys won for the first time in their last five December games. Romo has not thrown an interception in his last 156 pass attempts, the longest streak of his career.With a missed field goal from 24 yards in the fourth quarter, Cowboys kicker Nick Folk has now missed a kick in six straight games. ... New Orleans allowed four sacks after allowing just 15 in their previous 13 games. .. With 298 passing yards, Brees recorded his fourth straight 4,000-yard season, joining Peyton Manning as the only players in NFL history to accomplish the feat.

Chris Henry

What's been a rather sad weekend for the Cincinnati Bengals, ends up on an even more sour note. Just days after the team lost wide receiver and fellow teammate Chris Henry, the Bengals were forced to go back to work and return to the playing field against the San Diego Chargers. Chad Ochocinco who had planned on wearing the #15 on his jersey in honor of Henry, did not get the opportunity, as the league has a ban on players changing jersey numbers for a single game. Ochocinco did however get his message across after scoring a touchdown that would give the Bengals the lead. Known for his more controversial and creative touchdown celebrations, Ocho dropped down on his knees and began to pray while pointing up to the sky in a touching manner. The emotional Ochocinco was then seen with fellow teammates hugging and walking back to the sidelines with tears running down his face. The Bengals would end up losing the game by a score of 27-24.


On December 16th, Chris Henry was rushed to the hospital after jumping out the back of a moving truck. Henry sustained serious injuries to his head and died early the next morning. The young Henry was reported dead on December 17th and passed at the early age of 26. In remembrance of Henry, the Cincinnati Bengals will wear the no. 15 on the back of their helmets as seen in the photo below.

RIP - Chris Henry

WHO DEY?!?

Heading into last week's heavyweight match-up between the New Orleans Saints and the New England Patriots, many questioned the Saints' 11-0 record and said the lack of opponents is the main reason why the team remains unbeaten. But the Monday Night showdown proved Drew Brees and the boys of the byo can hang, as Brees put on an offensive show, totaling 5 touchdowns & 371 yards in route to a 38-17 win over New England. With all the recent MVP talk hovering Peyton Manning and Brett Favre, Drew Brees let it be known that he's not one to be slept on.

The Saints defense was able to hold off Tom Brady and force him to throw 2 key interceptions, resulting in Pats head coach Bill Belichick taking him out for the final two offensive drives. & With two unbeaten teams throughout the first 13 weeks for the first time in NFL history, a new question begins to surface. "Which undefeated is better, the Saints or the Colts?" With both teams escaping defeat more than once, I've gotta say it's the Saints. What that New Orleans team did to Bill Belichick's boys was just unfair. Not to mention when Manning's Colts beat New England 2 weeks ago, they only won by 1 point. That opposed to the 21 point ass whooping New Orleans served up.

With just weeks left to the 2009 NFL regular season, all eyes are set on both the Indianapolis Colts and the New Orleans Saints. Although the big game is still well out of reach, a Superbowl headlined by two undefeated teams would be huge! & If the two were to meet this weekend, I'd have to put my money on the Saints, given they've been fortunate enough to find a way to win in the most impressing ways. Might I add they are pretty fun to watch. With that being said, 'WHO DEY! WHO DEY! WHO DEY SAY GON' BEAT DEM SAINTS!?!?!?'

How Sweep It Is x The No Fun League

This past weekend, the Cincinnati Bengals completed a season sweep of the division rival and defending Superbowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers, the first time since 1998. The Bengals have also completed the season sweep of their division foe Baltimore Ravens, marking the first time in franchise history Cincinnati was able to sweep both in the same season. Even with a banged up and injured Cedric Benson, the Mighty Bengals were able to come out on top, 18-12 in Pittsburgh. Benson, the potential MVP candidate went down in the second quarter and was replaced by back-up running back Bernard Scott. Scott scored the game's only touchdown on a 96-yard kickoff return in the opening quarter.

Seeing your star back go down with an injury is never music to a team's ears. However the Bengals are fortunate to have a core of good back-ups. & With the new addition of former Chiefs running back Larry Johnson, the team adds depth to an already strong position. Johnson, who was recently released from Kansas City last week could make his Bengals debut as soon as Sunday against Oakland, if he learns the playbook soon enough. & With Benson treating an injured hip, his status for this week's game is doubtful which would play a perfect role if Johnson does indeed play.

The running back position hasn't been the only headline made for the Bengals. In fact, prior to Sunday's game in Pittsburgh, wide-out Chad Ochocinco wanted to send mustard to the Steelers locker room. Coach Marvin Lewis however simply said "No". The prank worked in week 9 when #85 sent a box of deodorant to the Ravens locker room. The barer of practical jokes and on field antics was fined $20,000 by the NFL for "Bribing" officials in week 9's defeat over Baltimore. After a reviewable call in which Chad was called out of bounds on, Ochocinco was seen jokingly trying to hand an official a dollar bill. The NFL didn't find it funny, as they refused the $1 and instead demanded a whopping $20,000 instead. Now that doesn't sound like a fair trade. Let's see what Chad has under his sleeve this week against Oakland.

Wacko Jacko makes a Call & Mo-Jo takes a Knee

As if the Belichick call wasn't debatable enough for ya, another disputed call over the weekend was Jacksonville Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio's decision to have his star running back Maurice Jones-Drew take a knee at the 1-yard line with an open path to the end zone, instead to give kicker Josh Scobee an extra point length field goal with time time expiring. Similar to Belichick, coach Del Rio received lots of criticism regarding his risky late game decision, as many analysts have said it's "Not smart to give up points in a game, EVER!"

My thoughts on the decision were rather complimenting. I think the call just goes to show how confident Del Rio was in his kicker. Not to mention the unselfishness showed by Jones-Drew. Although he was given a command to do something, I wouldn't be too surprised about the handful of players that refuse to take a knee instead of adding a touchdown to their stats. After the game, Jones-Drew, who's leading the league in touchdowns, later apologized to his fantasy team owners and that's what I find most comical about the whole thing. I also liked the call Del Rio made, by not allowing the Jets to make a late game touchdown. What the call does do however, is put a lot of pressure on your kicking staff by relying on them to win you the game. But if the kick is good like it was in this situation, everyone goes home happy.