Ravens - Browns Prognosis
I hate to be a broken record, but this one should come down to which quarterback makes a couple big plays and fewest mistakes. With that logic, and with the way the Browns’ offensive line has functioned recently, I believe Derek Anderson will outplay rookie Joe Flaco, and Cleveland should get to .500 with the win.
It should be a relatively low scoring game – so if you are a sick puppy and like to wager – take the under. The one variable that could alter that prognosis is if either one, or both of these signal-callers, turns it over and gives the opponent a short field to work with on one or more occasions.
So I’m going with the Browns – 20-13.
Quite frankly, the Browns have the edge coming in – they are relatively healthy, at home, playing their best football of the season (winning three of four), and have the more experienced quarterback. There is NO excuse to lose this one.
This is a seminole moment in the season.
If you are sitting at 4-4 at the half way mark, you can realistically convince yourself, and the fans & media who want to believe, you have a chance to compete for a post-season spot if you are the Browns. I don’t completely buy that argument – but it is plausible. If you lose another divisional game, in your building, and fall to 3-5, it is over unless lightning strikes.
Because the talent level is so close at the professional level, the large majority of NFL games boil down to not giving up big plays defensively and not turning it over offensively. This is of course, assuming the special teams’ battle is even. This game falls right in line with that thinking.
The Browns have played reasonably well defensively in '08 – surprising many, including this observer. Of course, the bar was set pretty low going into the season. Bu the facts are the facts. They are no longer near the bottom or at the bottom of the league in most statistical categories on that side of the ball – compared to 2007. Therefore, I expect the Browns’ defense to play well against a relatively weak offense.
By the way, when have the Ravens EVER had a good offense? Answer – never.
That, my friends, puts it on the offense to win against the #2 ranked defense in the NFL.
In the past, it was usually a question of when, future Hall of Famer Ed Reed came up with the back-breaking pick versus the Browns, not if. Anderson MUST avoid that tendency this time around. It would also be nice if the "O" line can consistently get to first ballot Hall of Famer Ray Lewis and keep him from roaming sideline to sideline and creating havoc.
Notice, I am always concerned when playing a team that has HOFers on it. Those guys tend to make big plays that win games. They must always be accounted for.
I expect the Browns’ brain trust to go conservative – emphasizing the running game and the safe underneath passes early in an attempt to avoid turnovers and build up DA's on-again, off-again confidence.
Look for Jamaal Lewis to get a season-high in carries. CHUD and company realize Flaco and the Ravens’ offense is dysfunctional without help from the defense. He (CHUD) will do all he can to avoid giving Baltimore the short field it seeks.
Winslow Revisited
Someone will have to explain to me some day what took place last week in Berea.
The Browns fined Winslow big time and suspended him for one game. Then, they reduced the fine, but because he missed all week of practice, he did not play on Sunday. Since the Browns won, no one complained.
This observer does't allow the fact that the team earned a quality road win overwhelm the moronic reasoning involved with the decision-making process that came out of Berea.
Again, if I am a member of the Lerner family, I should be concerned right now. My GM looked confused and in over his head. The fact the Browns won on Sunday should NOT make me feel better about what took place and how it was handled.
Meanwhile, Crennel came out looking like the good cop and nice guy – that he is. And Winslow, in the mind of the fans, is selfish and not needed since Cleveland is 2-0 without him in ‘08. Did I mention 95% of fans don’t know $#@? I did, didn’t I?
Cavaliers
I noticed something on opening night against the Celtics that bothered me. Late in the third quarter, or early in the fourth quarter, Head Coach Mike Brown had 23 and Moe Williams BOTH on the bench resting. The Cavaliers were of course outscored during that stretch and eventually lost a relatively close game.
Understand this – unless the Cavs are in garbage time, 23 and Williams should NEVER both be on the bench! Period
The whole idea of adding another scorer was take some of the offensive burden off LJ. That is true when they are both playing and especially true when LJ is resting. Watching the Cavs try to score in the half court the past several years with James resting is equivalent to someone scrapping their long fingernails on a chalkboard – over and over again. It’s unbearable!
With Williams on the floor, you at least have a chance – especially with the shot clock running down. He does have the ability to create on his own and finish. However, he can’t do it if he’s sitting next to James drinking Gatorade.
Hopefully, one of Brown’s numerous assistants will suggest they bag that approach. There are 81 games left to play.
CC
I heard a report the Brewers were going to offer CC a four-year/$25 million deal.
I doubt that's true. It would be hard for me to believe that franchise can afford that kind of cash. However, if true, it will be interesting to see if CC will feel "comfortable" in Milwaukee.
Something tells me he will end up on either coast for more years and more $. If I had to guess, I would say the Yankees or the Angels, in that order. I'm guessing he would love to play at home (SF). However, they (SF) were snakebit once already offering big cash to a pitcher (Zito). I doubt the Giants will revisit that approach.
And no, he's not coming back to Cleveland, unless Shapiro and company can at minimum offer him 6-7 years and $25-30 million a year. That ain't happenin'.
Not bad cash for a guy who has underachieved in October.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Browns – Jaguars Post-Mortem
Recap
This was a quality road win. That does not happen often with this franchise. Congratulations.
Offensively, the Browns did just enough – especially in the first half, while defensively, Cleveland continues to play above expected means.
Defense
Much of the credit on defense goes to nose guard Shaun Rogers, who was dominant on this day. He has been the one player on the roster this fall that has played at a Pro Bowl level. And for some reason, the Jaguars continued to try to run right at him even though Rogers brought his “A” game.
Meanwhile, rookie late-round pick Alex Hall continues to impress at outside linebacker. His motor is always running and he improves from week to week. That’s a good thing.
Finally, we need to recognize inside linebacker D’Qwell Jackson, who is currently among the top-10 in the league in tackles. I was not a huge fan last year and he still doesn’t make the big plays you want from a LB, but is steady and getting better. The numbers don’t lie if you are among the league’s leading tacklers. That’s also a very good thing and a credit to the boys up front for keeping people off Jackson.
Offense
Derek Anderson had a very good first half and did just enough in the second half to help the Browns earn the “W.” The long fourth quarter completion to Cedric Steptoe on third and long was his biggest completion of the season when you consider the circumstances. The Jaguars had the momentum and that completion was DA’s only outstanding throw of the second half. It came at a good time.
It’s very simple – when Anderson plays well, the Browns win, and when he doesn’t, they lose. That’s the case with NFL teams that don’t ask their quarterback to just “manage games.” Quarterbacks must make plays on a consistent basis in order for their team to win. Today, DA did enough. Against New York, he was outstanding. The rest of the season – he’s been out to lunch. That's why you are sitting at 3-4 with a defense that has overachieved.
Enough said.
Boys Up Front
The “O” line we criticized in pre-season and early in the 2008 campaign has turned it around and has played exceptionally well the past three weeks against quality defensive units. DA was hardly touched again today and Jamaal Lewis had plenty of running room. The “O” line is now in mid-2007 form – finally. The end result – a winning percentage of .667 during that stretch. It’s simple math.
Red Zone Woes
Once again, the Browns had trouble punching it in. This time, they had a first and goal from inside the 1-yard line and for some reason called a pass to “Butterfingers” that was nearly picked off.
Lewis was chewing up yardage on that drive. What happened to giving him the rock inside the 1-yard line on first down and if it doesn't work, come back to it again? We are talking less than one yard here. Don’t get too cute CHUD. Keep it simple when simple will do.
What is also hurting the Browns deep in the red zone is DA’s lack of mobility. He isn’t a threat to run and is uncomfortable moving around in the pocket to buy time. The good news is he wasn’t picked off and they got points – albeit field goals.
Special Teams
Josh Cribbs has not been the dynamic return man he was in ’07, but he continues to be a big contributor with his coverage skills. Cribbs earns every penny he makes. He only knows one speed – full go.
Conservative Approach
Romeo Crennel decided to run it three times, punt and put it on the defense instead of letting Anderson throw for a first down on Cleveland’s last possession. Regardless how they might spin it if the media asks on Monday, that shows a lack of confidence in the quarterback. A play action pass on second down to try to pick up the first down in that situation could have put the game on ice. Anderson was playing well enough to be given the opportunity to put it away. If not today, when?
Could you imagine the talk in Cleveland this evening if Jones had caught that pass thrown his way in the game's final moments instead of making like “Butterfingers” did a couple years back on a potential game-winner and having it hit every finger and knuckle twice before harmlessly falling to the ground?
However, as Earl Bruce once said -- a win is a win is a win.
This was a quality road win. That does not happen often with this franchise. Congratulations.
Offensively, the Browns did just enough – especially in the first half, while defensively, Cleveland continues to play above expected means.
Defense
Much of the credit on defense goes to nose guard Shaun Rogers, who was dominant on this day. He has been the one player on the roster this fall that has played at a Pro Bowl level. And for some reason, the Jaguars continued to try to run right at him even though Rogers brought his “A” game.
Meanwhile, rookie late-round pick Alex Hall continues to impress at outside linebacker. His motor is always running and he improves from week to week. That’s a good thing.
Finally, we need to recognize inside linebacker D’Qwell Jackson, who is currently among the top-10 in the league in tackles. I was not a huge fan last year and he still doesn’t make the big plays you want from a LB, but is steady and getting better. The numbers don’t lie if you are among the league’s leading tacklers. That’s also a very good thing and a credit to the boys up front for keeping people off Jackson.
Offense
Derek Anderson had a very good first half and did just enough in the second half to help the Browns earn the “W.” The long fourth quarter completion to Cedric Steptoe on third and long was his biggest completion of the season when you consider the circumstances. The Jaguars had the momentum and that completion was DA’s only outstanding throw of the second half. It came at a good time.
It’s very simple – when Anderson plays well, the Browns win, and when he doesn’t, they lose. That’s the case with NFL teams that don’t ask their quarterback to just “manage games.” Quarterbacks must make plays on a consistent basis in order for their team to win. Today, DA did enough. Against New York, he was outstanding. The rest of the season – he’s been out to lunch. That's why you are sitting at 3-4 with a defense that has overachieved.
Enough said.
Boys Up Front
The “O” line we criticized in pre-season and early in the 2008 campaign has turned it around and has played exceptionally well the past three weeks against quality defensive units. DA was hardly touched again today and Jamaal Lewis had plenty of running room. The “O” line is now in mid-2007 form – finally. The end result – a winning percentage of .667 during that stretch. It’s simple math.
Red Zone Woes
Once again, the Browns had trouble punching it in. This time, they had a first and goal from inside the 1-yard line and for some reason called a pass to “Butterfingers” that was nearly picked off.
Lewis was chewing up yardage on that drive. What happened to giving him the rock inside the 1-yard line on first down and if it doesn't work, come back to it again? We are talking less than one yard here. Don’t get too cute CHUD. Keep it simple when simple will do.
What is also hurting the Browns deep in the red zone is DA’s lack of mobility. He isn’t a threat to run and is uncomfortable moving around in the pocket to buy time. The good news is he wasn’t picked off and they got points – albeit field goals.
Special Teams
Josh Cribbs has not been the dynamic return man he was in ’07, but he continues to be a big contributor with his coverage skills. Cribbs earns every penny he makes. He only knows one speed – full go.
Conservative Approach
Romeo Crennel decided to run it three times, punt and put it on the defense instead of letting Anderson throw for a first down on Cleveland’s last possession. Regardless how they might spin it if the media asks on Monday, that shows a lack of confidence in the quarterback. A play action pass on second down to try to pick up the first down in that situation could have put the game on ice. Anderson was playing well enough to be given the opportunity to put it away. If not today, when?
Could you imagine the talk in Cleveland this evening if Jones had caught that pass thrown his way in the game's final moments instead of making like “Butterfingers” did a couple years back on a potential game-winner and having it hit every finger and knuckle twice before harmlessly falling to the ground?
However, as Earl Bruce once said -- a win is a win is a win.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
K2 & Browns - Jaguars Pick
K2 Suspension
I don’t get it. Why are the Cleveland Browns in a pissing match with their best player (K2)?
After a loss, he (Kellen Winslow) said some things he should not have said publicly. Yes, he should have kept it “in house” and spoken to Phil Savage and Romeo Crennel first before going public. He was wrong in the approach he took. We can all agree on that.
However, he did not throw any teammates under the bus nor did he rip his coach. Heck, he didn’t even ask to be traded - yet.
K2 voiced his views on an off-the-field matter – the cause and disclosure policy of his latest injury.
He did take a shot at the team’s GM (Phil Savage), or as we dubbed him a while back -“Boy Wonder,” when we questioned some of his personnel decisions before it was in vogue to do so.
As we see it, Savage simply showed his thin skin in his response. Why else would you suspend a player and dock him one game’s pay ($230,000) for such an offense?
You want to fine him – fine. Hit him in the pocketbook hard – say $100,000. That sends a clear message to all concerned. Then move on and put this behind you. There are games to be played and hopefully won.
Why make matters worse?
Think about it – had Winslow complained about the game plan, Romeo’s in-game coaching or Butterfingers’ horrid performance, he likely would not have been suspended. But since he went after Savage, he’s thrown overboard.
Making an example of Winslow is not going to help Crennel maintain the little control he has left of this bunch. It actually makes his job even harder.
And sending Crennel out to be the public face for this organizational move of suspending Winslow was ChickenSHIT behavior if you ask me.
My guess is Crennel did NOT want Winslow suspended. He knows K2 is a “decent kid” as he often described him “who can get emotional at times.” Does that sound like a coach who wants this player suspended?
Yet, he (Romeo) was forced to do Savage’s dirty work and face the cameras when he should have been focusing on Jacksonville game tape.
Savage should have had the guts to man up and do the dirty work himself. That’s in his job decription when it comes to this type of personnel move.
Instead, he acted like some closers do when they get tagged and lose the game – he hid in the trainer’s room afterwards, or in Savage’s case, sent out a press release then hid under his desk for three days.
And what has Phil created?
We have a player who is, in essence, taking the team to court to get his game check back. We have a team going to battle this Sunday without its best player when it did not have to be that way. We have an off-the-field distraction for this organization and its players that could have been avoided that will last at minimum into next week when K2 comes back. Nice work.
All this was created because Savage was offended.
I wonder what the Lerner family is thinking tonight about the decisions made to give both Romeo and Phil extensions before their contracts ran out. That’s right, Romeo and Phil took this team to the playoffs each of the past two seasons.
Whoops. I forgot, that never happened. Somebody call me and remind why those extensions were given again. I seemed to have forgotten.
What are you going to do for an encore Phil? I know – trade K2 in the off-season then tell the fans how much better the team will be without its best player.
I can hear Phil at that press conference now.
“We made this move because it was the right organizational move to make and because Kellen and the team agreed it was best for all concerned. We will move forward now with the players we have, the players that want to be part of the great tradition that is the Cleveland Browns.”
The best part is some moron the next day will write a column agreeing with Savage and point to the win over the Giants as a prime example that the Browns don’t need a Pro-Bowl tight end in his prime to win football games.
And you thought I was kidding when I said things were starting to spin out of control a couple weeks ago.
Browns – Jaguars
What about the game? That’s right, the Browns play this Sunday. We almost forgot.
The K2 distraction took the "twin meltdown" of last week (DA & “Butterfingers” in Washington) off the local front pages this week. Those two got lucky.
That’s okay, something tells me we haven’t seen DA’s last errand pass nor “Butterfingers’” last drop in 2008.
We like Jacksonville to kick a field goal late to win by three in their building – 24-21. I have no special insight on this one. I just like the home team thinking they are slightly better right now than the Browns. I do expect the Browns' offense to show up and actually put some points on the board this Sunday.
In the end however, we see the Jaguars at 4-3 Sunday night and the Browns sitting at 2-5, Brady Quinn (aka:the other guy) continuing to be “on high alert” as Romeo says, and K2 preparing to give testimony at his hearing versus the Browns on Tuesday.
You can’t make this stuff up if you tried.
I don’t get it. Why are the Cleveland Browns in a pissing match with their best player (K2)?
After a loss, he (Kellen Winslow) said some things he should not have said publicly. Yes, he should have kept it “in house” and spoken to Phil Savage and Romeo Crennel first before going public. He was wrong in the approach he took. We can all agree on that.
However, he did not throw any teammates under the bus nor did he rip his coach. Heck, he didn’t even ask to be traded - yet.
K2 voiced his views on an off-the-field matter – the cause and disclosure policy of his latest injury.
He did take a shot at the team’s GM (Phil Savage), or as we dubbed him a while back -“Boy Wonder,” when we questioned some of his personnel decisions before it was in vogue to do so.
As we see it, Savage simply showed his thin skin in his response. Why else would you suspend a player and dock him one game’s pay ($230,000) for such an offense?
You want to fine him – fine. Hit him in the pocketbook hard – say $100,000. That sends a clear message to all concerned. Then move on and put this behind you. There are games to be played and hopefully won.
Why make matters worse?
Think about it – had Winslow complained about the game plan, Romeo’s in-game coaching or Butterfingers’ horrid performance, he likely would not have been suspended. But since he went after Savage, he’s thrown overboard.
Making an example of Winslow is not going to help Crennel maintain the little control he has left of this bunch. It actually makes his job even harder.
And sending Crennel out to be the public face for this organizational move of suspending Winslow was ChickenSHIT behavior if you ask me.
My guess is Crennel did NOT want Winslow suspended. He knows K2 is a “decent kid” as he often described him “who can get emotional at times.” Does that sound like a coach who wants this player suspended?
Yet, he (Romeo) was forced to do Savage’s dirty work and face the cameras when he should have been focusing on Jacksonville game tape.
Savage should have had the guts to man up and do the dirty work himself. That’s in his job decription when it comes to this type of personnel move.
Instead, he acted like some closers do when they get tagged and lose the game – he hid in the trainer’s room afterwards, or in Savage’s case, sent out a press release then hid under his desk for three days.
And what has Phil created?
We have a player who is, in essence, taking the team to court to get his game check back. We have a team going to battle this Sunday without its best player when it did not have to be that way. We have an off-the-field distraction for this organization and its players that could have been avoided that will last at minimum into next week when K2 comes back. Nice work.
All this was created because Savage was offended.
I wonder what the Lerner family is thinking tonight about the decisions made to give both Romeo and Phil extensions before their contracts ran out. That’s right, Romeo and Phil took this team to the playoffs each of the past two seasons.
Whoops. I forgot, that never happened. Somebody call me and remind why those extensions were given again. I seemed to have forgotten.
What are you going to do for an encore Phil? I know – trade K2 in the off-season then tell the fans how much better the team will be without its best player.
I can hear Phil at that press conference now.
“We made this move because it was the right organizational move to make and because Kellen and the team agreed it was best for all concerned. We will move forward now with the players we have, the players that want to be part of the great tradition that is the Cleveland Browns.”
The best part is some moron the next day will write a column agreeing with Savage and point to the win over the Giants as a prime example that the Browns don’t need a Pro-Bowl tight end in his prime to win football games.
And you thought I was kidding when I said things were starting to spin out of control a couple weeks ago.
Browns – Jaguars
What about the game? That’s right, the Browns play this Sunday. We almost forgot.
The K2 distraction took the "twin meltdown" of last week (DA & “Butterfingers” in Washington) off the local front pages this week. Those two got lucky.
That’s okay, something tells me we haven’t seen DA’s last errand pass nor “Butterfingers’” last drop in 2008.
We like Jacksonville to kick a field goal late to win by three in their building – 24-21. I have no special insight on this one. I just like the home team thinking they are slightly better right now than the Browns. I do expect the Browns' offense to show up and actually put some points on the board this Sunday.
In the end however, we see the Jaguars at 4-3 Sunday night and the Browns sitting at 2-5, Brady Quinn (aka:the other guy) continuing to be “on high alert” as Romeo says, and K2 preparing to give testimony at his hearing versus the Browns on Tuesday.
You can’t make this stuff up if you tried.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Browns - Skins Post Mortem
So much for “getting that swagger back.”
Clinton Portis ran for 175 yards and Jason Campbell did not cough it up. That was all the offense the Redskins needed (14 points) playing a Browns’ offense that was atrocious for the fifth time in six tries.
How bad was it?
The Browns did not get their first passing first down until late in the third quarter. If you thought that was bad, here's another one - It took the Browns eight tries from inside the 2-yard line to score their lone touchdown of the game.
By the way, I did not agree with Romeo who went for it on fourth down inside the 1-yard line when a field goal would have cut the Washington lead to eight – within one TD and the two-point conversion.
It did not matter of course. DA was really bad again and “Butterfingers” was equally inept – dropping at least three more passes and not being on the same page with the guy he's worked with for the past two years.
I wonder if the moron contingent will still use Braylon's pre-season foot injury as the excuse for being out of sync with the QB?
And poor CHUD must be pulling his hair out. He actually tried several "give me" passes to get DA untracked. Unfortunately, Anderson couldn't even complete those simple flat passes.
Folks, when DA and Butterfingers are bad, they are REALLY bad. There is no middle ground for these guys anymore. It’s like watching a starter being clubbed for six runs in the first two innings. These guys just don’t get you to the late innings consistently enough.
With all that being said, they (offense) had the ball in good field position in a two minute mode needing just a field goal to send it to OT. Yet, they failed to get it done - again.
The truth is, I am almost at the point where it isn’t any fun watching this anymore, it's so predictable.
And I also cannot stand seeing teammates arguing almost every Sunday either on the field or on the sidelines. Today, it was Vickers and DA. Romeo has no control of this group and one thing is clear - some players on this team have no respect for their QB. Could you imagine some second-year mediocre fullback pull away from John Elway when he had a point to make?
I could go on, but why bother. We had it about right in our weekly prediction saying the Skins were better, their quarterback would outplay DA and Portis would get his 100+.
Kudos to the Browns’ defense. They at least showed up, holding the Skins to 14. The offensive line also did a solid job of pass protection. Unfortunately, when your quarterback completes less than 40% of his passes, you aren’t going to win often.
Simply - the Skins deserved to win this game while the Browns did not.
I have to go now. I am actually going to watch sports this evening (Sunday). Two of my favorite QBs are facing each other (Jeff Garcia & Seneca Wallace). I may also tune in some to game #7 between my Rays and the Red Sox.
Clinton Portis ran for 175 yards and Jason Campbell did not cough it up. That was all the offense the Redskins needed (14 points) playing a Browns’ offense that was atrocious for the fifth time in six tries.
How bad was it?
The Browns did not get their first passing first down until late in the third quarter. If you thought that was bad, here's another one - It took the Browns eight tries from inside the 2-yard line to score their lone touchdown of the game.
By the way, I did not agree with Romeo who went for it on fourth down inside the 1-yard line when a field goal would have cut the Washington lead to eight – within one TD and the two-point conversion.
It did not matter of course. DA was really bad again and “Butterfingers” was equally inept – dropping at least three more passes and not being on the same page with the guy he's worked with for the past two years.
I wonder if the moron contingent will still use Braylon's pre-season foot injury as the excuse for being out of sync with the QB?
And poor CHUD must be pulling his hair out. He actually tried several "give me" passes to get DA untracked. Unfortunately, Anderson couldn't even complete those simple flat passes.
Folks, when DA and Butterfingers are bad, they are REALLY bad. There is no middle ground for these guys anymore. It’s like watching a starter being clubbed for six runs in the first two innings. These guys just don’t get you to the late innings consistently enough.
With all that being said, they (offense) had the ball in good field position in a two minute mode needing just a field goal to send it to OT. Yet, they failed to get it done - again.
The truth is, I am almost at the point where it isn’t any fun watching this anymore, it's so predictable.
And I also cannot stand seeing teammates arguing almost every Sunday either on the field or on the sidelines. Today, it was Vickers and DA. Romeo has no control of this group and one thing is clear - some players on this team have no respect for their QB. Could you imagine some second-year mediocre fullback pull away from John Elway when he had a point to make?
I could go on, but why bother. We had it about right in our weekly prediction saying the Skins were better, their quarterback would outplay DA and Portis would get his 100+.
Kudos to the Browns’ defense. They at least showed up, holding the Skins to 14. The offensive line also did a solid job of pass protection. Unfortunately, when your quarterback completes less than 40% of his passes, you aren’t going to win often.
Simply - the Skins deserved to win this game while the Browns did not.
I have to go now. I am actually going to watch sports this evening (Sunday). Two of my favorite QBs are facing each other (Jeff Garcia & Seneca Wallace). I may also tune in some to game #7 between my Rays and the Red Sox.
Browns - Skins Preview
Pick
The Skins are seven point favorites and that’s just about right. We like Washington to bounce back at home following last week’s loss to the Rams. How does 24-17 Skins sound?
Running Game
Statistically, Washington’s running attack is currently among the best in the NFL. However, the Skins’ #1 back, Clinton Portis, missed practice time this week due to an injury. If he is healthy, this will be the Browns’ rush defense’s biggest test to date in 2008. We will get to see if all that money spent up front was worth it. This corner believes Portis will get his 100+ yards and the Skins will take this one in their building.
No INTs
Secondly, Jason Campbell has yet to throw a pick this season. That’s impressive. If that trend continues, the Browns will lose the turnover battle and lose the contest.
Campbell is an adequate starter who is “managing” the game well for Washington. There’s that terrible phrase again – “managing the game.” The Browns will need to get him in second, and third and long, and hope to force him into a couple of mistakes today if they expect to earn the W.
Special Teams
There is one area of the game where Cleveland could come up big – special teams. Washington has allowed a pair of punt returns for touchdowns in ’08. Josh Cribbs is due to have a breakout game. If he delivers, that will go a long way toward a Cleveland win.
Cleveland Offense
We will see today if the Browns’ offense is back on track or if last week’s performance against the Giants was just a mirage. Derek Anderson will of course be the center of attention. If he outplays Campbell, the Browns win. If not, Cleveland will be sitting at 2-4 tonight.
Media
I must have read and heard a half dozen comments this week from area media types discussing how Phil Savage, Romeo Crennel and DA were “vindicated” after last week’s big win over the Super Bowl Champion Giants.
What a crock of $#@!
I would like to have a job where I perform at a high level only 20% of the time and then be allowed to feel good about myself. As we stated at the time – it was a huge win, the most impressive since the return of the franchise in 1999, but it was just one win and the first time this season in five tries the team played well from beginning to end (with the noticeable exception of those ridiculous procedure penalties).
The local media is so far in the tank, it's like watching MSNBC, CNN News, The New York Times, etc... cheerleading for Obama to win the presidency. Much of the local press picked Cleveland to win in Washington this week, despite Vegas putting Washington at -7.
Let’s do this one more time – yes, the Browns can win today - it's the NFL. However, based on what I have seen so far in ’08, the Skins are better – especially if they do the one thing they have done so well so far these first two months – not turn it over.
The Browns must stop the run and DA must not put the ball in the hands of the Skins’ secondary if the Browns expect to win. We just don’t see both of those things happening at the same time today. If they do, the Browns win and they are at 3-3 headed in the rigth direction.
Theoretically, being able to pick winners should be getting easier simply because we now have empirical evidence to base things on. Translation - these teams have now played enough games in '08 to get a read on what they do and don't do well.
Again, I would like to pick Cleveland, but the mind says otherwise.
Red Sox – Rays
If there is any justice in the world, Tampa will win game #7 tonight and advance to the World Series.
Speaking of Politics
I have come to the conclusion that John McCain simply does not want to win bad enough.
Perhaps, a better description is he refuses to go to the wall to win. He has refused to bring up Obama's 20-year relationship with a preacher who hates America (Jeremiah Wright). He waited too long to bring up Obama's association with radicals (i.e. terrorist Bill Ayers). And, he waited way too long to link Obama with what borders on socialist economic policies.
His campaign should have been running ads months ago letting the American people know what this country will look like with Obama as president, and Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi in complete control of Congress. He and his people, again, simply waited too long to make the point that the big spending liberals will be in total control of the nation's purse strings.
And I have yet to see an ad emphasizing what type of Supreme Court Justices Obama would appoint.
Secondly, in the debates, he had numerous opportunities to hammer Obama. There were several hanging curve balls he fouled off. For example, when Obama claimed he only had a passing association with Ayers, and besides that, the man is now a respected college professor, all Mcain had to say is was -
"Senator, I would never sit on a Board with this man like you did, I would not give speeches with this man liek you did, I would never work hand in and with this man on projects like you did, and with all due respect - I wouldn't even shake this man's hand.
"Senator, how can Americans trust you to go after the terrorists that are trying to kill us when you had the horrible judgment to form an association with a domestic terrorist who doesn't even regret anything he's done?"
That approach alone would have been worth five points in the polls. Unfortunately, McCain would rather lose being nice than pull out all the stops and actually try to win.
Right now, he looks like an old 72 just going through the motions.
The Skins are seven point favorites and that’s just about right. We like Washington to bounce back at home following last week’s loss to the Rams. How does 24-17 Skins sound?
Running Game
Statistically, Washington’s running attack is currently among the best in the NFL. However, the Skins’ #1 back, Clinton Portis, missed practice time this week due to an injury. If he is healthy, this will be the Browns’ rush defense’s biggest test to date in 2008. We will get to see if all that money spent up front was worth it. This corner believes Portis will get his 100+ yards and the Skins will take this one in their building.
No INTs
Secondly, Jason Campbell has yet to throw a pick this season. That’s impressive. If that trend continues, the Browns will lose the turnover battle and lose the contest.
Campbell is an adequate starter who is “managing” the game well for Washington. There’s that terrible phrase again – “managing the game.” The Browns will need to get him in second, and third and long, and hope to force him into a couple of mistakes today if they expect to earn the W.
Special Teams
There is one area of the game where Cleveland could come up big – special teams. Washington has allowed a pair of punt returns for touchdowns in ’08. Josh Cribbs is due to have a breakout game. If he delivers, that will go a long way toward a Cleveland win.
Cleveland Offense
We will see today if the Browns’ offense is back on track or if last week’s performance against the Giants was just a mirage. Derek Anderson will of course be the center of attention. If he outplays Campbell, the Browns win. If not, Cleveland will be sitting at 2-4 tonight.
Media
I must have read and heard a half dozen comments this week from area media types discussing how Phil Savage, Romeo Crennel and DA were “vindicated” after last week’s big win over the Super Bowl Champion Giants.
What a crock of $#@!
I would like to have a job where I perform at a high level only 20% of the time and then be allowed to feel good about myself. As we stated at the time – it was a huge win, the most impressive since the return of the franchise in 1999, but it was just one win and the first time this season in five tries the team played well from beginning to end (with the noticeable exception of those ridiculous procedure penalties).
The local media is so far in the tank, it's like watching MSNBC, CNN News, The New York Times, etc... cheerleading for Obama to win the presidency. Much of the local press picked Cleveland to win in Washington this week, despite Vegas putting Washington at -7.
Let’s do this one more time – yes, the Browns can win today - it's the NFL. However, based on what I have seen so far in ’08, the Skins are better – especially if they do the one thing they have done so well so far these first two months – not turn it over.
The Browns must stop the run and DA must not put the ball in the hands of the Skins’ secondary if the Browns expect to win. We just don’t see both of those things happening at the same time today. If they do, the Browns win and they are at 3-3 headed in the rigth direction.
Theoretically, being able to pick winners should be getting easier simply because we now have empirical evidence to base things on. Translation - these teams have now played enough games in '08 to get a read on what they do and don't do well.
Again, I would like to pick Cleveland, but the mind says otherwise.
Red Sox – Rays
If there is any justice in the world, Tampa will win game #7 tonight and advance to the World Series.
Speaking of Politics
I have come to the conclusion that John McCain simply does not want to win bad enough.
Perhaps, a better description is he refuses to go to the wall to win. He has refused to bring up Obama's 20-year relationship with a preacher who hates America (Jeremiah Wright). He waited too long to bring up Obama's association with radicals (i.e. terrorist Bill Ayers). And, he waited way too long to link Obama with what borders on socialist economic policies.
His campaign should have been running ads months ago letting the American people know what this country will look like with Obama as president, and Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi in complete control of Congress. He and his people, again, simply waited too long to make the point that the big spending liberals will be in total control of the nation's purse strings.
And I have yet to see an ad emphasizing what type of Supreme Court Justices Obama would appoint.
Secondly, in the debates, he had numerous opportunities to hammer Obama. There were several hanging curve balls he fouled off. For example, when Obama claimed he only had a passing association with Ayers, and besides that, the man is now a respected college professor, all Mcain had to say is was -
"Senator, I would never sit on a Board with this man like you did, I would not give speeches with this man liek you did, I would never work hand in and with this man on projects like you did, and with all due respect - I wouldn't even shake this man's hand.
"Senator, how can Americans trust you to go after the terrorists that are trying to kill us when you had the horrible judgment to form an association with a domestic terrorist who doesn't even regret anything he's done?"
That approach alone would have been worth five points in the polls. Unfortunately, McCain would rather lose being nice than pull out all the stops and actually try to win.
Right now, he looks like an old 72 just going through the motions.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Giants-Browns Post Mortem
Congratulations to the Browns for playing a complete game. I guess those who predicted it (the win) knew what they were talking about all along. Right!
This wins was produced up front – where most games are won. The Browns kept Derek Anderson’s shirt clean all day against arguably the best pass rush in football. Meanwhile, the Browns’ defense actually knocked Eli Manning around some. Kudos to the boys up front for being more physical than New York.
Secondly, Anderson played well from start to finish. He took what the defense gave him early – showing patience and throwing underneath. As he gained confidence, he started slinging it all over the field effectively. He played very well and deserves credit for doing so.
Third, Braylon “Butterfingers” Edwards came up huge. Why the Giants didn’t double him more with K2 out was perplexing. Regardless, he finally made plays.
Finally, hats off to defensive coordinator Mel Tucker for being aggressive and showing Manning and company numerous looks. He was not afraid to blitz from all angles, and stayed with it, even when the Giants made them pay.
Where there issues in this one? Of course.
The numerous offensive motion and illegal procedure penalties were comical and showed a complete lack of discipline. The strategy involved that had a nickel back cover the Giants’ #1 receiver (Plaxico Burress) at the goal line late in the first half was not designed by a genius. But for one night, we will give them a pass. Why? They beat the undefeated Super Bowl Champions. That says it all.
What does it mean for the rest of the season?
Those who "want to believe" will say this is a stepping stone to bigger and better things. They will tell you its now a new season – the offense is finally jelling and the defense is improving.
Those who disagree will remind you this only counts as one win and the Browns are under .500 at 2-3, with two tough road games ahead (Washington & Jacksonville).
You know where I stand. I am a "glass half empty" guy until you prove otherwise – especially with this organization.
However, for one night, we will not think negatively and just give them their due. They deserve as much for showing up big on national television and beating an undefeated team.
This is the NFL and they are all pros, remember? On this night, the Browns were clearly the better pros. Good work gentlemen. Now do it again next week. That's what you get paid to do.
Wall Street
I love the Wall Street talking heads on television. They want government, and the regulations it imposes, nowhere near them. They scream “socialism” when the government snoops into their business. Yet, they have no problem, in fact, DEMAND, a government bailout, when the stock market crashes. What stones!
I dabbled in the market on a very small scale, for a very short period of time, several years ago. I got out knowing I could not invest $100 then see my portfolio read $95 several months later. That just wasn’t for me. I figured just give me my 4% every year and I’ll be fine, although my friends laughed at my strategy. They aren’t laughing anymore.
The excuse being used is that over half of the country invests in the market and we can’t let their 401Ks take this hit.
Why the hell not? There was no written guarantee of financial success when you'll entered the market. Why should there be help from Uncle Sam (AKA: tax payers) when things go south?
Those that dabble in the market are involved in legalized gambling – nothing more, nothing less. And for the most part, they have done well if they diversified and stayed in it over the long haul. I understand all that.
However, now the “debtor (credit cards) and paper (stock market) society” we have created over the last 30 years, in the words of Reverend Jeremiah Wright - “IS COMING HOME TO ROOST!”
The government does only one thing well – defend us. That’s its primary function and it has succeeded with two noticeable exceptions this past century – Pearl Harbor and 9-11.
I don’t mind paying taxes that go toward new weapons systems and to pay our soldiers’ salaries. In fact, I would be willing to pay more to defend our country and to provide for those who protect my freedom.
However, I don’t want to give more of my hard earned income to the government if it will be used to save investors, prop up failing companies, and keep people in homes they and no business buying in the first place.
As for those who, as of this week, lost 20-30% of their retirement portfolio because of the Stock Market meltdown, I say - too bad. If it means buying your 17 year old son a used 2004 Neon instead of a 2009 Honda, so be it. Deal with it.
For those who could not afford that SUV but bought it anyway, along with that big screen television, I say - start living WITHIN your means not BEYOND your means.
This financial crisis is like a good winter snowfall. It’s cleansing in nature – at least I hope it will be. Hopefully, consumers will start to buy what they can afford instead of what they want, companies will be forced to abide by sane guidelines in terms of doing business, and CEOs will no longer get “golden parachutes” regardless if the company they run makes a profit or goes under.
A friend of mine goes to Vegas a half a dozen times a year. He doesn’t ask for help from Uncle Sam (AKA: the tax payers) when he comes back down $3,000 and neither should Wall Street and those who decide to gamble their money there instead of in Sin City.
This wins was produced up front – where most games are won. The Browns kept Derek Anderson’s shirt clean all day against arguably the best pass rush in football. Meanwhile, the Browns’ defense actually knocked Eli Manning around some. Kudos to the boys up front for being more physical than New York.
Secondly, Anderson played well from start to finish. He took what the defense gave him early – showing patience and throwing underneath. As he gained confidence, he started slinging it all over the field effectively. He played very well and deserves credit for doing so.
Third, Braylon “Butterfingers” Edwards came up huge. Why the Giants didn’t double him more with K2 out was perplexing. Regardless, he finally made plays.
Finally, hats off to defensive coordinator Mel Tucker for being aggressive and showing Manning and company numerous looks. He was not afraid to blitz from all angles, and stayed with it, even when the Giants made them pay.
Where there issues in this one? Of course.
The numerous offensive motion and illegal procedure penalties were comical and showed a complete lack of discipline. The strategy involved that had a nickel back cover the Giants’ #1 receiver (Plaxico Burress) at the goal line late in the first half was not designed by a genius. But for one night, we will give them a pass. Why? They beat the undefeated Super Bowl Champions. That says it all.
What does it mean for the rest of the season?
Those who "want to believe" will say this is a stepping stone to bigger and better things. They will tell you its now a new season – the offense is finally jelling and the defense is improving.
Those who disagree will remind you this only counts as one win and the Browns are under .500 at 2-3, with two tough road games ahead (Washington & Jacksonville).
You know where I stand. I am a "glass half empty" guy until you prove otherwise – especially with this organization.
However, for one night, we will not think negatively and just give them their due. They deserve as much for showing up big on national television and beating an undefeated team.
This is the NFL and they are all pros, remember? On this night, the Browns were clearly the better pros. Good work gentlemen. Now do it again next week. That's what you get paid to do.
Wall Street
I love the Wall Street talking heads on television. They want government, and the regulations it imposes, nowhere near them. They scream “socialism” when the government snoops into their business. Yet, they have no problem, in fact, DEMAND, a government bailout, when the stock market crashes. What stones!
I dabbled in the market on a very small scale, for a very short period of time, several years ago. I got out knowing I could not invest $100 then see my portfolio read $95 several months later. That just wasn’t for me. I figured just give me my 4% every year and I’ll be fine, although my friends laughed at my strategy. They aren’t laughing anymore.
The excuse being used is that over half of the country invests in the market and we can’t let their 401Ks take this hit.
Why the hell not? There was no written guarantee of financial success when you'll entered the market. Why should there be help from Uncle Sam (AKA: tax payers) when things go south?
Those that dabble in the market are involved in legalized gambling – nothing more, nothing less. And for the most part, they have done well if they diversified and stayed in it over the long haul. I understand all that.
However, now the “debtor (credit cards) and paper (stock market) society” we have created over the last 30 years, in the words of Reverend Jeremiah Wright - “IS COMING HOME TO ROOST!”
The government does only one thing well – defend us. That’s its primary function and it has succeeded with two noticeable exceptions this past century – Pearl Harbor and 9-11.
I don’t mind paying taxes that go toward new weapons systems and to pay our soldiers’ salaries. In fact, I would be willing to pay more to defend our country and to provide for those who protect my freedom.
However, I don’t want to give more of my hard earned income to the government if it will be used to save investors, prop up failing companies, and keep people in homes they and no business buying in the first place.
As for those who, as of this week, lost 20-30% of their retirement portfolio because of the Stock Market meltdown, I say - too bad. If it means buying your 17 year old son a used 2004 Neon instead of a 2009 Honda, so be it. Deal with it.
For those who could not afford that SUV but bought it anyway, along with that big screen television, I say - start living WITHIN your means not BEYOND your means.
This financial crisis is like a good winter snowfall. It’s cleansing in nature – at least I hope it will be. Hopefully, consumers will start to buy what they can afford instead of what they want, companies will be forced to abide by sane guidelines in terms of doing business, and CEOs will no longer get “golden parachutes” regardless if the company they run makes a profit or goes under.
A friend of mine goes to Vegas a half a dozen times a year. He doesn’t ask for help from Uncle Sam (AKA: the tax payers) when he comes back down $3,000 and neither should Wall Street and those who decide to gamble their money there instead of in Sin City.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Giants - Browns Preview & More
Giants – Browns
All indications point to this one getting ugly. The Giants are the defending Super Bowl Champions, undefeated in 2008 and hitting on all cylinders. The Browns have only one win, a come-from-behind effort against a winless team that committed five turnovers, led by an NCAA Division II level starting quarterback. There’s no need to break this one down further – Giants win, 37-17.
The worst part of this two week wait is the hot air coming from the local media concerning this game. Some media types are trying to spin how the Browns can and may win this one. You talk about being in the tank.
No one in their right mind could realisticaly predict a Browns' win Monday unless they are doing it for shock value. Could they win? Sure. It's the NFL - anything is possible. These guys get paid and they can all play. But you have to be wearing orange underwear or be on the team's payroll to make that call with a straight face.
Ugly Numbers
I saw a stat last night indicating the Browns were currently dead last in the NFL in yards gained and passing yards. Can it get much worse?
Prediction
If the Browns lose their next three - which is a distinct possibility playing the Giants then two quality opponents on the road (Washington & Jacksonville), I expect the Lerner family to make a coaching change at that point. At 1-6, it would be hard for Savage to continue with his "stay the course" strategy while the team is headed for a top-five draft pick in Crennel's fourth year at the helm.
Even if the team does not embarrass itself in terms of overall performance in those contests, it will be hard keeping the fan and media pressure at bay. It will be interesting to see how Phil Savage handles that press conference if it happens.
College Football
We saw a future pro last week at work in the Ohio State – Wisconsin game. Badger tight end Travis Beckum can play on my team any time. I have no idea where the draftnicks have him – nor do I care. He was by far the best player on the field for Wisconsin on that day. Unfortunately, the Badger coaching staff didn’t agree. I don’t think a ball was thrown in his direction until the Badgers’ fourth drive of the game.
That’s bordering on criminal negligence if you ask me in a game of that magnitude. And please don’t tell me he was getting double-teamed. If that’s the case, send him in motion and create the match-up you want.
The only thing worse was Ohio State’s reluctance to give B. Wells the ball 30x. I have to assume he’s not at 100% because that game screamed for the future first round NFL pick to get a ton of touches. There was no way the Badgers would have been able to keep him from consistently moving the chains had the OSU coaching staff fed him the rock time and time again.
Speaking of Wells, if the NFL season ended today, the Browns would have a top-10 pick. I would take Wells if he were available. It is actually to the Browns advantage Wells does not have a huge year. If he gets healthy and leads OSU to a big-time bowl, he might be gone when they pick. Then again, if the Browns continue to spiral downward, they might be picking in the top five and have a real shot at him. Wells has the size, strength and enough speed to be a workhorse at the next level. He reminds me of a faster Eddie George.
Occasionally, I will be dropping names of college players we like to be playing on Sunday. I think you will find this interesting. I don’t grade them – I don’t know how. But I know a player when I see one. Obviously, Wells is on everyone’s radar. Beckum caught my eye last week. He might last a while in the draft because NFL player personnel types will be concerned that he’s not big enough to play tight end at the next level and perhaps too slow to play wide receiver. Ignore them. He can play on Sundays. Period. There will be others and when I see one, I’ll let you know.
MLB Post-Season
I have not watched one inning of it. Sorry. I’m just not interested. I would rather watch the cable news programs. But I am aware my Brewers are out. Go Rays!
Indians & Free Agency
The Indians are in need of a corner infielder with some pop. I have a guy in mind. He can play third, first and the outfield relatively well. The guy is one of the most versatile players in MLB and you should not have to break the bank to get him. He also knows what highway to take to get to the ballpark in downtown Cleveland. His name is Casey Blake.
LeBron & Soft Porn
Every time I see a news story on the Cavaliers this month, I see where 23 is shirtless. What’s the deal? Someone needs to tell LJ if he wants to do soft porn modeling, to do it on his own time. Put a shirt on 23. We know you are cut. You don’t need to show it off all the time. Besides, for a guy that big, that quick and that strong, you are the worst post-up player in the NBA. You should dominate the paint – especially when the jumper isn’t falling.
Unfortunately, most of the time I see you down in the blocks, you end up facing up or taking a fade away jumper. And I haven’t seen any improvement in that part of your game yet. It’s been two years now I’ve been complained about this weakness in your game. Now put a shirt on and get to work inside.
AFC Wide Open
With Tom Brady out for the year, the AFC is there for the taking. We had the Pats beating the Cowboys in February when the season began. We now have to put Pittsburgh in the AFC slot. The Steelers are solid in all phases and they will likely have home field advantage throughout the post-season in their conference. As for who will win the game, I'll have to get back to you on that one. I need more time.
Amazing
What moron predicted the Vikings to reach the Super Bowl with "Michael" Jackson quarterbacking the team?
I only needed to see Gus Frerotte play one half of football this past week and already came to the conclusion he was better at 36 than Jackson is now.
This begs the question - Why would Minnesota spend all that money on free agency in the off-season with the intention of making a serious run at the playoffs yet have Jackson running the show? Some questions simply have no answer.
I know. I know. His name is not Michael. It's an attempt at humor.
Chad The Man
Our boy Chad Pennington continues to impress in Miami. He's simply a very underrated quarterback. Fans, the media and player personel directors fall in love with guys who have "big arms," but we like quarterbacks who just complete passes.
That's what Pennington does. He's not physically gifted, so he doesn't impress people. No, he's not going to throw a laser 20 yard out, but he will complete 60% of his passes or more and make more good decisions than bad.
Had we been in charge of the Browns, we would have picked him up immediately after the Jets released him and stated so on this site. His role would have been to back up "The Other Guy" as Romeo calls him. That would have given Cleveland a solid back-up in case Quinn struggled or went down with an injury.
Mr. Negative
Someone who reads this site asked me recently why am I so negative?
Simply - I call them as I see them.
When Eric Wedge kept the Indians from packing it in this summer, I praised him. When Dany Ferry picked up Mo Williams, I stated that was an upgrade in the backcourt. When Mark Shapiro made the right move and traded C.C. before he could opt for free agency, we agreed with the move.
The point is not all our comments are negative. We pride ourselves on being as objective as possible. Yes, we have been mostly negative in terms of the Browns. That's true. Then again, look at their winning percentage since 1999. They have certainly earned the ridicule. And until they figure it out, more is headed their way.
All indications point to this one getting ugly. The Giants are the defending Super Bowl Champions, undefeated in 2008 and hitting on all cylinders. The Browns have only one win, a come-from-behind effort against a winless team that committed five turnovers, led by an NCAA Division II level starting quarterback. There’s no need to break this one down further – Giants win, 37-17.
The worst part of this two week wait is the hot air coming from the local media concerning this game. Some media types are trying to spin how the Browns can and may win this one. You talk about being in the tank.
No one in their right mind could realisticaly predict a Browns' win Monday unless they are doing it for shock value. Could they win? Sure. It's the NFL - anything is possible. These guys get paid and they can all play. But you have to be wearing orange underwear or be on the team's payroll to make that call with a straight face.
Ugly Numbers
I saw a stat last night indicating the Browns were currently dead last in the NFL in yards gained and passing yards. Can it get much worse?
Prediction
If the Browns lose their next three - which is a distinct possibility playing the Giants then two quality opponents on the road (Washington & Jacksonville), I expect the Lerner family to make a coaching change at that point. At 1-6, it would be hard for Savage to continue with his "stay the course" strategy while the team is headed for a top-five draft pick in Crennel's fourth year at the helm.
Even if the team does not embarrass itself in terms of overall performance in those contests, it will be hard keeping the fan and media pressure at bay. It will be interesting to see how Phil Savage handles that press conference if it happens.
College Football
We saw a future pro last week at work in the Ohio State – Wisconsin game. Badger tight end Travis Beckum can play on my team any time. I have no idea where the draftnicks have him – nor do I care. He was by far the best player on the field for Wisconsin on that day. Unfortunately, the Badger coaching staff didn’t agree. I don’t think a ball was thrown in his direction until the Badgers’ fourth drive of the game.
That’s bordering on criminal negligence if you ask me in a game of that magnitude. And please don’t tell me he was getting double-teamed. If that’s the case, send him in motion and create the match-up you want.
The only thing worse was Ohio State’s reluctance to give B. Wells the ball 30x. I have to assume he’s not at 100% because that game screamed for the future first round NFL pick to get a ton of touches. There was no way the Badgers would have been able to keep him from consistently moving the chains had the OSU coaching staff fed him the rock time and time again.
Speaking of Wells, if the NFL season ended today, the Browns would have a top-10 pick. I would take Wells if he were available. It is actually to the Browns advantage Wells does not have a huge year. If he gets healthy and leads OSU to a big-time bowl, he might be gone when they pick. Then again, if the Browns continue to spiral downward, they might be picking in the top five and have a real shot at him. Wells has the size, strength and enough speed to be a workhorse at the next level. He reminds me of a faster Eddie George.
Occasionally, I will be dropping names of college players we like to be playing on Sunday. I think you will find this interesting. I don’t grade them – I don’t know how. But I know a player when I see one. Obviously, Wells is on everyone’s radar. Beckum caught my eye last week. He might last a while in the draft because NFL player personnel types will be concerned that he’s not big enough to play tight end at the next level and perhaps too slow to play wide receiver. Ignore them. He can play on Sundays. Period. There will be others and when I see one, I’ll let you know.
MLB Post-Season
I have not watched one inning of it. Sorry. I’m just not interested. I would rather watch the cable news programs. But I am aware my Brewers are out. Go Rays!
Indians & Free Agency
The Indians are in need of a corner infielder with some pop. I have a guy in mind. He can play third, first and the outfield relatively well. The guy is one of the most versatile players in MLB and you should not have to break the bank to get him. He also knows what highway to take to get to the ballpark in downtown Cleveland. His name is Casey Blake.
LeBron & Soft Porn
Every time I see a news story on the Cavaliers this month, I see where 23 is shirtless. What’s the deal? Someone needs to tell LJ if he wants to do soft porn modeling, to do it on his own time. Put a shirt on 23. We know you are cut. You don’t need to show it off all the time. Besides, for a guy that big, that quick and that strong, you are the worst post-up player in the NBA. You should dominate the paint – especially when the jumper isn’t falling.
Unfortunately, most of the time I see you down in the blocks, you end up facing up or taking a fade away jumper. And I haven’t seen any improvement in that part of your game yet. It’s been two years now I’ve been complained about this weakness in your game. Now put a shirt on and get to work inside.
AFC Wide Open
With Tom Brady out for the year, the AFC is there for the taking. We had the Pats beating the Cowboys in February when the season began. We now have to put Pittsburgh in the AFC slot. The Steelers are solid in all phases and they will likely have home field advantage throughout the post-season in their conference. As for who will win the game, I'll have to get back to you on that one. I need more time.
Amazing
What moron predicted the Vikings to reach the Super Bowl with "Michael" Jackson quarterbacking the team?
I only needed to see Gus Frerotte play one half of football this past week and already came to the conclusion he was better at 36 than Jackson is now.
This begs the question - Why would Minnesota spend all that money on free agency in the off-season with the intention of making a serious run at the playoffs yet have Jackson running the show? Some questions simply have no answer.
I know. I know. His name is not Michael. It's an attempt at humor.
Chad The Man
Our boy Chad Pennington continues to impress in Miami. He's simply a very underrated quarterback. Fans, the media and player personel directors fall in love with guys who have "big arms," but we like quarterbacks who just complete passes.
That's what Pennington does. He's not physically gifted, so he doesn't impress people. No, he's not going to throw a laser 20 yard out, but he will complete 60% of his passes or more and make more good decisions than bad.
Had we been in charge of the Browns, we would have picked him up immediately after the Jets released him and stated so on this site. His role would have been to back up "The Other Guy" as Romeo calls him. That would have given Cleveland a solid back-up in case Quinn struggled or went down with an injury.
Mr. Negative
Someone who reads this site asked me recently why am I so negative?
Simply - I call them as I see them.
When Eric Wedge kept the Indians from packing it in this summer, I praised him. When Dany Ferry picked up Mo Williams, I stated that was an upgrade in the backcourt. When Mark Shapiro made the right move and traded C.C. before he could opt for free agency, we agreed with the move.
The point is not all our comments are negative. We pride ourselves on being as objective as possible. Yes, we have been mostly negative in terms of the Browns. That's true. Then again, look at their winning percentage since 1999. They have certainly earned the ridicule. And until they figure it out, more is headed their way.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Mid Week Thoughts
Browns
After actually watching his press conference on Monday, I have come to the conclusion that there is absolutely nothing special about Phil Savage. He can’t possibly believe what he was saying.
Among the gems, was his “stay the course” explanation in supporting his coach and quarterback. It was lengthy, convoluted and boring. For the first time in front of the media during his tenure in Cleveland, he looked irritated, which was strange considering he was getting mostly softballs from those in attendance.
Here is what I would have wanted him to comment on:
Your comment on the lack of discipline and focus four weeks in, including four off-sides penalties and being penalized on the game’s last play when in the victory formation?
Please comment on your #1 receiver once again taking your quarterback to task on the sideline during a game?
What have you seen so far to give you confidence this team can win against the Giants in two weeks or go on the road and win in Washington or Jacksonville?
Here is my favorite. Following his “stay the course” explanation for keeping DA behind center, NOT ONE reporter asked Savage then how did that square with the quick hook you had after one game with Charlie Frye in 2007? Not one.
K.C. Rumors
I heard a rumor the Chiefs are interested in “THE OTHER GUY.” That is what we are calling Brady Quinn from this moment forward.
Why? That is what his head coach warmly calls him. RC learned that trick working under Mr. Bill.
For his sake, I hope the Chiefs or some other NFL team acquire ‘THE OTHER GUY” and play him immediately. That will never happen. Never. Savage doesn’t have the $#@ to deal him, even if K.C. were to offer more than the Browns gave up to get him.
Follow me here - If he did and the “THE OTHER GUY” succeeded, it would wake up the Lerner family to the fact “Boy Genius” wasn’t so bright and he might be out of a job.
If he didn’t have the stones to dump DA in the off-season, and doesn’t want to dump him after the “Four Weeks From Hell” that has this offense currently ranked 30th overall, he (Savage) certainly isn’t going to get rid of “THE OTHER GUY” and open himself up to having “For Sales” signs being set up in his front yard by irate Browns fans while DA and Romeo lead this franchise to another sub .500 season.
Over Exposure
If I am right, the Browns organization will soon regret being on national television so much this season. That feeling should hit home very late Monday evening, October 13 after the Giants double up the brown and orange.
If the Browns lay another egg in front of the whole country, they will officially become the laughing stock of the NFL – taking that mantle away from “Crazy” Al in Oakland. You would think with two weeks of preparation, the nation watching (again) and just basic pride, the Browns will show up and make a game of it. If they don’t, they deserve the ridicule that will follow.
Indians
Credit must go to Eric Wedge for keeping the Indians competing after the July fire sale. The team finished strong. Now it is up to Mark Shapiro to get it right in terms of evaluating what the second half of the season actually meant in terms of off-season moves.
As for this season, it went south because the pitching wasn’t nearly as dominant as a year ago. It’s as simple as that. The difference was the following – Carmona was injured and inconsistent after returning, Westbrook was out for basically the whole season, Rafael right had a bad year after being arguably the best set-up man in baseball in 2007 and Rafael left was pretty good but not great like in 2007.
Tribe & C.C.
I am told the Indians picked up another player in the C.C. deal – a very good looking centerfield prospect. The word is if C.C. got the Brewers to the playoffs, this guy comes east. Obviously, I won’t make any judgments until we see him up close for a while. However, that’s good news considering the Brewers got the most you could get out of their rent-a-pitcher for two months (C.C.).
In fact, I would argue no team in the history of the game got more out of a late season two-month acquisition than Milwaukee did.
Not only was C.C. 9-0 at one point after the deal, but the Brewers had him pitch on three days rest several times down the stretch. I would have done the same thing. I kept hearing and reading where some media types were questioning the Brewers for this strategy. Morons.
Why not use him up if he is pitching well and is agreeable?
C.C. will still get paid. In fact, he’ll probably make even more now based on how he pitched after the deal. Of course, if he falters next summer, I can hear it now – “The Brewers used up his arm and he has nothing left.” Look, I am all for pitch counts – whether it be little league or MLB. However, when it comes to a veteran big-leaguer who is on his game during a pennant race – I say go for it!
The Brewers will be losing Ben Sheets and C.C. in a couple weeks to free agency. They played it just right. The problem is most of the pundits questioning their strategy of using up C.C. live on both coasts. They again JUST DON’T GET. The teams they watch on a regular basis (Boston, N.Y #1, & N.Y #2, LA, etc…) can go pick up whatever piece they need by spending more $.
The Brewers may not see October baseball again for another 25 years. They had no other choice but to ride C.C. as hard as needed.
Small Market
Here’s another one that’s soon coming to a town near you to be echoed by the national baseball pundits – “See, the Yankees and other large market teams don’t win ever year. Look at Tampa Bay and Milwaukee. That proves a small market team can succeed.”
What a bunch of %$#@.
The Rays had their first EVER .500 season and the Brewers were last in the post-season when I was picking zits off my face back in college in 1982. The deck is stacked and it will remain so. The odds are stacked against over 2/3 of the markets in question. In the meantime, you know what I want to see - a Tampa versus Milwaukee World Series.
Cavaliers
In the last few days, I have heard Cavalier players and management personnel talk as if this team is ready for a serious championship run. I have heard words describing this team as being – “the deepest team we’ve had in years, most talented team since the James era began, loaded with talented, etc…”
I don’t see it unless Moe Williams plays at an all-star level. I know no one else coming back from a year ago will play at that level besides LJ.
Yes, the team should win more games than in 2007-08 based on adding Williams and having a full training camp with the mid-season acquisitions from a year ago. Another 50+ win season is likely. However, we have seen that before.
The question is will Williams take enough heat off 23 so teams can’t triple him come playoff time when the game slows down and the fast break dunks are far and few between – especially on the road? We shall see.
One concern this corner still has is the lack of size in the backcourt. None of the three players likely to get the bulk of the minutes (Williams, Gibson & West) can be considered big guards, nor are they good defenders.
The Cavaliers were hurt severely with guard penetration last season. That problem was not solved in the off-season. Cleveland’s guards have to do a much better job of staying in front of their man in 2008-09.
The good news is 23 will once again carry them to 50+ wins. Plus, the team can evaluate what it needs for the stretch run and make another move (trade) in February if the need is there. To his credit, Dan Gilbert has and will spend the money. That is not an issue with this franchise.
After actually watching his press conference on Monday, I have come to the conclusion that there is absolutely nothing special about Phil Savage. He can’t possibly believe what he was saying.
Among the gems, was his “stay the course” explanation in supporting his coach and quarterback. It was lengthy, convoluted and boring. For the first time in front of the media during his tenure in Cleveland, he looked irritated, which was strange considering he was getting mostly softballs from those in attendance.
Here is what I would have wanted him to comment on:
Your comment on the lack of discipline and focus four weeks in, including four off-sides penalties and being penalized on the game’s last play when in the victory formation?
Please comment on your #1 receiver once again taking your quarterback to task on the sideline during a game?
What have you seen so far to give you confidence this team can win against the Giants in two weeks or go on the road and win in Washington or Jacksonville?
Here is my favorite. Following his “stay the course” explanation for keeping DA behind center, NOT ONE reporter asked Savage then how did that square with the quick hook you had after one game with Charlie Frye in 2007? Not one.
K.C. Rumors
I heard a rumor the Chiefs are interested in “THE OTHER GUY.” That is what we are calling Brady Quinn from this moment forward.
Why? That is what his head coach warmly calls him. RC learned that trick working under Mr. Bill.
For his sake, I hope the Chiefs or some other NFL team acquire ‘THE OTHER GUY” and play him immediately. That will never happen. Never. Savage doesn’t have the $#@ to deal him, even if K.C. were to offer more than the Browns gave up to get him.
Follow me here - If he did and the “THE OTHER GUY” succeeded, it would wake up the Lerner family to the fact “Boy Genius” wasn’t so bright and he might be out of a job.
If he didn’t have the stones to dump DA in the off-season, and doesn’t want to dump him after the “Four Weeks From Hell” that has this offense currently ranked 30th overall, he (Savage) certainly isn’t going to get rid of “THE OTHER GUY” and open himself up to having “For Sales” signs being set up in his front yard by irate Browns fans while DA and Romeo lead this franchise to another sub .500 season.
Over Exposure
If I am right, the Browns organization will soon regret being on national television so much this season. That feeling should hit home very late Monday evening, October 13 after the Giants double up the brown and orange.
If the Browns lay another egg in front of the whole country, they will officially become the laughing stock of the NFL – taking that mantle away from “Crazy” Al in Oakland. You would think with two weeks of preparation, the nation watching (again) and just basic pride, the Browns will show up and make a game of it. If they don’t, they deserve the ridicule that will follow.
Indians
Credit must go to Eric Wedge for keeping the Indians competing after the July fire sale. The team finished strong. Now it is up to Mark Shapiro to get it right in terms of evaluating what the second half of the season actually meant in terms of off-season moves.
As for this season, it went south because the pitching wasn’t nearly as dominant as a year ago. It’s as simple as that. The difference was the following – Carmona was injured and inconsistent after returning, Westbrook was out for basically the whole season, Rafael right had a bad year after being arguably the best set-up man in baseball in 2007 and Rafael left was pretty good but not great like in 2007.
Tribe & C.C.
I am told the Indians picked up another player in the C.C. deal – a very good looking centerfield prospect. The word is if C.C. got the Brewers to the playoffs, this guy comes east. Obviously, I won’t make any judgments until we see him up close for a while. However, that’s good news considering the Brewers got the most you could get out of their rent-a-pitcher for two months (C.C.).
In fact, I would argue no team in the history of the game got more out of a late season two-month acquisition than Milwaukee did.
Not only was C.C. 9-0 at one point after the deal, but the Brewers had him pitch on three days rest several times down the stretch. I would have done the same thing. I kept hearing and reading where some media types were questioning the Brewers for this strategy. Morons.
Why not use him up if he is pitching well and is agreeable?
C.C. will still get paid. In fact, he’ll probably make even more now based on how he pitched after the deal. Of course, if he falters next summer, I can hear it now – “The Brewers used up his arm and he has nothing left.” Look, I am all for pitch counts – whether it be little league or MLB. However, when it comes to a veteran big-leaguer who is on his game during a pennant race – I say go for it!
The Brewers will be losing Ben Sheets and C.C. in a couple weeks to free agency. They played it just right. The problem is most of the pundits questioning their strategy of using up C.C. live on both coasts. They again JUST DON’T GET. The teams they watch on a regular basis (Boston, N.Y #1, & N.Y #2, LA, etc…) can go pick up whatever piece they need by spending more $.
The Brewers may not see October baseball again for another 25 years. They had no other choice but to ride C.C. as hard as needed.
Small Market
Here’s another one that’s soon coming to a town near you to be echoed by the national baseball pundits – “See, the Yankees and other large market teams don’t win ever year. Look at Tampa Bay and Milwaukee. That proves a small market team can succeed.”
What a bunch of %$#@.
The Rays had their first EVER .500 season and the Brewers were last in the post-season when I was picking zits off my face back in college in 1982. The deck is stacked and it will remain so. The odds are stacked against over 2/3 of the markets in question. In the meantime, you know what I want to see - a Tampa versus Milwaukee World Series.
Cavaliers
In the last few days, I have heard Cavalier players and management personnel talk as if this team is ready for a serious championship run. I have heard words describing this team as being – “the deepest team we’ve had in years, most talented team since the James era began, loaded with talented, etc…”
I don’t see it unless Moe Williams plays at an all-star level. I know no one else coming back from a year ago will play at that level besides LJ.
Yes, the team should win more games than in 2007-08 based on adding Williams and having a full training camp with the mid-season acquisitions from a year ago. Another 50+ win season is likely. However, we have seen that before.
The question is will Williams take enough heat off 23 so teams can’t triple him come playoff time when the game slows down and the fast break dunks are far and few between – especially on the road? We shall see.
One concern this corner still has is the lack of size in the backcourt. None of the three players likely to get the bulk of the minutes (Williams, Gibson & West) can be considered big guards, nor are they good defenders.
The Cavaliers were hurt severely with guard penetration last season. That problem was not solved in the off-season. Cleveland’s guards have to do a much better job of staying in front of their man in 2008-09.
The good news is 23 will once again carry them to 50+ wins. Plus, the team can evaluate what it needs for the stretch run and make another move (trade) in February if the need is there. To his credit, Dan Gilbert has and will spend the money. That is not an issue with this franchise.
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