NFL Week 8

Jacksonville Jaguars (4-4) 35
Dallas Cowboys (1-6) 17
After the Cowboys' lost to the Giants last week, I said their season was over. If there was any doubt, that doubt has been erased. The Cowboys were pounded by Jacksonville. Jaguars' quarterback David Garrard finished with a quarterback rating of 157.8, throwing for 260 yards and four touchdowns. Tony Romo's replacement Jon Kitna threw the ball 49 times for almost 400 yards, but he had one touchdown and four interceptions.

Miami Dolphins (4-3) 22
Cincinnati Bengals (2-5) 14
The Bengals are terrible. I should be used to it, but I had high but realistic expectations for Cincinnati this year. I thought the Bengals were a playoff team. I was wrong.


Minnesota Vikings (2-5) 18
New England Patriots (6-1) 28
The performances of Tom Brady, Brandon Tate, and BenJarvus Green-Ellis got lost after the game on Sunday. Brett Favre's injury and Randy Moss' mouth stole the show. Since I'm sick of Brett Favre and I hate Randy Moss, I'm going to focus on Brady and his crew. Tom Brady had another superb performance under center. Brady completed 60% of his passes, throwing for 240 yards and a touchdown. Rookie Brandon Tate showed why the Patriots don't need Moss. Tate had 101 yards, including a 65-yard touchdown reception. Green-Ellis ran for 112 yards on just 17 carries with two touchdowns. The Patriots let the Vikings get within three in the 4th quarter, but Green-Ellis' touchdown with two minutes left in the game sealed the victory.

Buffalo Bills (0-7) 10
Kansas City Chiefs (5-2) 13
Former Kentucky Wildcat Steve Johnson tied a Buffalo Bills franchise record with a touchdown in five straight games. That touchdown came late in the 4th quarter and tied the game at 10. The Bills remain winless after Chiefs' kicker Ryan Succop kicked a field goal as time expired in overtime.




Houston Texans (4-3) 17
Indianapolis Colts (5-2) 30
Colts' tight end Jacob Tamme is another former Kentucky Wildcat making a name for himself in the NFL. Tamme is filling in for All-Pro tight end Dallas Clark. Clark, who is one of Peyton Manning's favorite targets, is out for the season. Manning was also missing receiver Austin Collie and starting running back Joseph Addai. Tamme filled in nicely, catching 6 passes for 64 yards and a touchdown. Manning had a solid game, completing 58% of his passes for 268 yards and two touchdowns. He was missing one of his top three wide receivers, his starting running back, and his starting tight end, and he still gets the job done. No one can play the quarterback position like Peyton Manning.

Washington Redskins (4-4) 25
Detroit Lions (2-5) 37

Carolina Panthers (1-6) 10
St. Louis Rams (4-4) 20

Green Bay Packers (5-3) 9
New York Jets (5-2) 0

Denver Broncos (2-6) 16
San Francisco 49ers (2-6) 24

Tennessee Titans (5-3) 25
San Diego Chargers (3-5) 33

Oakland Raiders (4-4) 33
Seattle Seahawks (4-3) 3

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-2) 38
Arizona Cardinals (3-4) 35

Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2) 10
New Orleans Saints (5-3) 20

NFL Week 7

Cincinnati Bengals (2-4) 32
Atlanta Falcons (5-2) 39
Well, the Bengals lost again. Both quarterbacks had huge games. The Bengals' Carson Palmer threw for over 400 yards. He had three touchdown passes without an interception. Matt Ryan threw for 300 yards, three touchdowns and one interception for the Falcons. Receivers on both sides had big days, but the difference was the Falcons' running game. Cincinnati's Cedric Benson carried the ball 20 times for 70 yards (3.5 yards per carry), and had a costly fumble in the 4th quarter that led to a Falcons' touchdown. Atlanta's Michael Turner gained 121 yards on 23 carries (5.3 ypc), with two touchdowns. The Falcons tried to give the game away in the third quarter, when the Bengals scored 22 unanswered points, but Atlanta came back in the 4th quarter with touchdowns by Roddy White and Turner.

Oakland Raiders (3-4) 59
Denver Broncos (2-5) 14
The Oakland Raiders scored a franchise-record 59 points in a 44-point rout of the Denver Broncos. Raiders' running back Darren McFadden had 4 touchdowns and 165 yards on the ground. The Broncos had no answer for McFadden and the rest of the Raiders rushing attack. Oakland rushed for 328 yards, and quarterback Jason Campbell threw for 204 yards and two touchdowns.


Minnesota Vikings (2-4) 24
Green Bay Packers (4-3) 28
Brett Favre threw three interceptions in what is hopefully his last game Lambeau Field. But despite the three picks he still had the Vikings in a position to win the game late in the 4th quarter. And with 48 seconds left Favre hit Percy Harvin in the back of the endzone for what appeared to be the game winning touchdown. But the replay clearly showed Harvin came down with one foot out of bounds. Favre threw an incomplete pass on the next play and he leaves Lambeau Field for the last time, a loser.


New England Patriots (5-1) 23
San Diego Chargers (2-5) 20
The Chargers' defense held the Patriots to only 179 total yards while gaining 363 yards on offense. That's really no surprise since the Chargers lead the league in offense and defense. The Chargers had a nine-minute advantage in time-of-possession and didn't give up any special teams' touchdowns. So the Chargers cruised to victory right? Wrong. There is no cruising to victory when you turn the ball over four times. The Chargers have now turned the ball over 18 times in only seven games. The Chargers only had 17 turnovers last season. Turnovers are the reason the Chargers are 2-5. The other four teams in NFL history that have led the league in both offense and defense in Week 7 or later have finished at least 12-2.


Philadelphia Eagles (4-3) 19
Tennessee Titans (5-2) 37
Titans' wide receiver Kenny Britt had 7 catches for 225 yards and three touchdowns. Britt was benched to start the game after being involved in a fight at a downtown club on Friday. If he continues to play at such a high level, opposing defenses will have their hands full trying to defend Britt and running back Chris Johnson. The Titans now sit atop the AFC South at 5-2. On a personal note, I started Britt in one of my fantasy football leagues, and he earned 40.5 points. Those of you that play fantasy football know that is an absurd point total for a wide receiver. Thank you Kenny Britt for my Week 7 victory.


Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1) 23
Miami Dolphins (3-3) 22
"The refs called a wonderful game -- for the Steelers." Those are the words of Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder. The Steelers were down 22-20 late in the 4th quarter. Facing a 3rd-and-goal on the 2-yard line, Ben Roethlisberger fumbled the ball as he dove into the endzone. The play was initially ruled a touchdown. After officials looked at the replay, they determined it was a fumble. But they claimed there was no conclusive evidence that showed which team recovered the ball. So the Steelers got the ball on the half-yard line, and Jeff Reed kicked a field goal with a little over two minutes left on the clock. The referees made the right decision in giving the ball to the Steelers. It's the only option if you can't tell who recovered the ball. But, had the correct call been made on the field the referees would've been able to determine who recovered the ball in the endzone. So the Steelers move to 5-1 after a give from the officials.


New York Giants (5-2) 41
Dallas Cowboys (1-5) 35
Tony Romo and the Cowboys were up 10-7 when Romo took a brutal hit from Giants' linebacker Michael Boley. Romo went down hard, suffering a broken collarbone on the play. After a David Buehler field goal and a 93-yard punt return for a touchdown by rookie receiver Dez Bryant the Cowboys were in control, 20-7. Then Eli Manning woke up. Manning led his offense on five straight scoring drives, giving the Giants a 38-20 lead. In the 4th quarter the Cowboys scored two meaningless touchdowns and the Giants added a field goal. The Giants held on to win by six, but the game wasn't as close as the score made it appear. Romo is out at least 6-8 weeks, but it's possible he could be out for the season. Either way, the Cowboys are finished. With or without Romo, their season is over.

Washington Redskins (4-3) 17
Chicago Bears (4-3) 14

Cleveland Browns (2-5) 30
New Orleans Saints (4-3) 17

St. Louis Rams (3-4) 17
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-2) 18

San Francisco 49ers (1-6) 20
Carolina Panthers (1-5) 23

Buffalo Bills (0-6) 34
Baltimore Ravens (5-2) 37

Arizona Cardinals (3-3) 10
Seattle Seahawks (4-2) 22

Jacksonville Jaguars (3-4) 20
Kansas City Chiefs (4-2) 42

NFL Week 6

San Francisco 49ers (1-5) 17
Oakland Raiders (2-4) 9
The 49ers finally won a game. ESPN's Mike Greenberg's Super Bowl pick moves to 1-5 on the season. San Francisco has weapons. Alex Smith threw two touchdown passes. Frank Gore rushed for almost 150 yards. Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis both had touchdown receptions. Wide receiver Josh Morgan had three catches for 49 yards. And the defense played well, holding Oakland to only 180 yards of total offense. They did commit 11 penalties, costing them 143 yards. If the 49ers can cut down on giving away free yards to the opposing team, this team has a chance to make the playoffs in a less than stellar NFC West.

New England Patriots (4-1) 23
Baltimore Ravens (4-2) 20
Randy who? That's what Patriots fans were screaming after their overtime victory against the Baltimore Ravens. In his return to New England, Deion Branch caught nine passes for 98 yards and a touchdown. The Patriots struggled to stretch the field early, but Branch proved to be a reliable receiver for Tom Brady down the stretch. The Patriots' defense held the Ravens to punts on their final five possessions.


New York Giants (4-2) 28
Detroit Lions (1-5) 20
The Lions lost their 24th consecutive road game. They tied the NFL record, which they set in 2004. The Giants have won their third straight since starting the season 1-2.


Philadelphia Eagles (4-2) 31
Atlanta Falcons (4-2) 17
The Eagles' Kevin Kolb showed why there is a legitimate quarterback controversy brewing in Philadelphia. Kolb led the Eagles to a 14-point victory, throwing 326 yards and three touchdowns. Wide receiver Jeremy Maclin filled in nicely for the injured DaSean Jackson, catching seven passes for 159 yards and two touchdowns.

Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1) 28
Cleveland Browns (1-5) 10
Big Ben is back. Roethlisberger's three-touchdown performance shows why the Steelers could be the favorites to win the AFC North, and maybe even the AFC Championship. In his first game back from suspension, Roethlisberger completed 59% of his passes for 257 yards. With consistent quarterback play, this team will be a force going forward.


Minnesota Vikings (2-3) 24
Dallas Cowboys (1-4) 21
In a game that many were calling a "playoff game in October" the Vikings outlasted the disappointing Dallas Cowboys. Vikings wide receiver Percy Harvin returned a kickoff 95-yards for a touchdown. And two Tony Romo interceptions resulted in 10 more points for the Vikings. The Vikings are now 2-3, and they're one game behind the Packers for 2nd in the NFC North. The Cowboys are 1-4 and sit alone at the bottom of the NFC East.


Indianapolis Colts (4-2) 27
Washington Redskins (3-3) 24

Tennessee Titans (4-2) 30
Jacksonville Jaguars (3-3) 3

New Orleans Saints (4-2) 31
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2) 6

Houston Texans (4-2) 35
Kansas City Chiefs (3-2) 31

New York Jets (5-1) 24
Denver Broncos (2-4) 20

Seattle Seahawks (3-2) 23
Chicago Bears (4-2) 20

Miami Dolphins (3-2) 23
Green Bay Packers (3-3) 20

St. Louis Rams (3-3) 20
San Diego Chargers (2-4) 17

The NFL Attempts to Make the Game Less Violent

The NFL is trying to eliminate dangerous and egregious hits. The rule isn't being changed. It's the way the NFL will now enforce the rule that has people talking. The league plans to suspend players for making illegal, helmet-to-helmet hits. Any hit to the head or neck will be looked at by the league office.



The players' safety is extremely important. The league made a great decision several years ago to change the rules to protect the quarterbacks. Quarterbacks are the marquee attractions and the NFL needs its stars on the field as much as possible. Now, the NFL is taking another step to protect its employees. Concussions are becoming more and more prevalent, and maybe that's largely due to the increased attention players are getting after receiving a hit to the head. Either way, the health of its players is a main concern of the NFL because of the increasing number of injuries and concussions. But the hits the league are trying to decry are the same hits that lead off highlight segments on ESPN and the NFL Network. The NFL was even selling pictures of several illegal hits on its website. That seems to be a tad bit hypocritical. Cleveland Browns linebacker Scott Fujita agrees, saying,

"I’m absolutely saying they are being completely hypocriti­cal. No doubt about it...They’re not consistent in their message right now. It’s just funny because they’re talking about banning these hits and suspending these players, but these are the same hits they are showing on NFL Network, promoting the game showing these hits."

He's absolutely right. The NFL can't have it both ways. (For the record, those pictures have been removed. And the NFL can't control the content on Sportscenter.)

I'm sure there are players in favor of the way the NFL will police these hits the rest of the season. But it's those that disagree that are making headlines.


Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher said the NFL might as well give the players flags, and change the league's name to the "National Flag Football League." Urlacher's teammate, cornerback Charles Tillman, said, "It's ruining the integrity. It's not even football anymore. We should just go out there and play two-hand touch Sunday if we can't make contact." While I think those views are a bit extreme, the players' mindsets are obviously going to be effected.

Many players believe fans will see a decrease in the quality of the game. Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis thinks the game is being diluted, saying, "My opinion is play the game like that game is supposed to be played, and whatever happens happens."

Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder thinks the NFL is turning football into a more "feminine sport." He recently said, "If I get a chance to knock somebody out, I'm going to knock them out and take what they give me. They give me a helmet, I'm going to use it." Crowder went on to say, "They can complain, they can suspend, they can fine and they can do whatever they want, but you can't stop a man from playing football the way he's been playing since high school."



And it's not just the defensive players speaking out against the way the NFL plans to crack down on hits to the head and neck. Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is worried about opposing defenders going lower in an attempt to avoid contact to the head and the subsequent fines/suspensions. Roethlisberger actually prefers a hit to the head, saying, "Just to be a little woozy, I think guys would take that over never walking again." And his teammate, safety Ryan Clark thinks defenders will in fact go lower. Clark said,

"We can't go around hitting guys in the head, they made that point and we understand that. Obviously they wanted to make it a big issue, with the media showing the hits over and over again. They had to make a statement and I think they did. But where do you go from here? We don't want to see guys with blown ACLs and thigh bruises and hip replacements. It's a touchy subject. We've got to find a way to hit these guys within the rules."

Roethlisberger and Clark both make good points. Alot of these guys actually make good points. Football is a violent game. When players sign up to play football they do so knowing it's a violent game. And I don't think suspending players for "egregious" hits will make it a less violent game. But that doesn't meant the league should do nothing. League officials can't just leave it alone. The NFL needs to be proactive in ensuring the safety of its players. What happens if the NFL does nothing, and next week a player gets hit and he's paraylzed for the rest of his life? Or what happens if the NFL ignores the issue and a player gets hit and dies on the field? It could happen, and it could happen even with the new threats of suspensions. But if it makes players think twice before they try to take someone's head off, then the NFL has done its job. Ben Roethlisberger says he'd rather take a shot to the head rather than be in a wheel chair the rest of his life. But what if that hit to the head and neck leaves him paralyzed, confined to a hosptial bed with no movement in his arms and legs? I would take the wheel chair. And that's exactly why the NFL is doing the right thing.

What is Rick Pitino thinking?

...I'm not talking about the white suit.


The pressure is on Rick Pitino to win, and win big. The past year or so has been full of let-downs in Louisville, and in some cases, it has been a public relations nightmare. The Cardinals lost in the first round of the Big East and NCAA tournaments. Several of Pitino's prized 2011 recruits changed their mind, and de-committed from the Cardinals. Preston Knowles got into a fight with his girlfriend’s father, and Jerry Smith and Terrence Jennings were both arrested in Jeffersonville, IN after an altercation with off-duty police officers. A couple of Pitino's recruits have had issues with their eligibility. Oh yeah, there was that whole affair thing too. And adding to the pressure is Kentucky coach John Calipari, who led the Cats to an Elite 8 appearance in his first season as the Wildcats head coach. Coach Calipari is about to secure his third consecutive top-ranked recruiting class in 2011, a class that features former Louisville (verbal) commitment Marquis Teague. Love or hate John Calipari, there's no question he's adding to Pitino's stress level these days.


The 2010 season is quickly approaching and the Louisville Cardinals are not considered to be contenders for the national title. They may not be legit contenders in the Big East. Smart money says Pitino is already looking forward to next season. Louisville is ready to welcome Pitino’s best recruiting class in 2011. The class is currently ranked 4th by Rivals.com, and features two players in the top 32. So during the KFC Yum! Center’s inaugural season Pitino and the Cardinals will focus on rebuilding. But Pitino must also rebuild his reputation. The best way to do that is simple: keep your team and yourself out of trouble. The program doesn’t need anymore distractions.


That being said, Louisville is the preferred destination of Wake Forest transfer Tony Woods. Woods, a 6’11’’ 250 pound center, was originally a five-star recruit. But he hasn’t lived up that label. Last season he averaged 4.6 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. He left Wake Forest after being suspended indefinitely by Coach Jeff Bzdelik. Woods was suspended after he pled guilty to misdemeanor assault of a female. Last month, he assaulted his girlfriend, who is the mother of his infant son. He reportedly hit and kicked her, breaking her spine. Woods received a 60-day suspended jail sentence and 100 hours of community service. He visited Louisville the weekend of October 16th. He wants to be a Cardinal, and he's planning to enroll at Louisville in January. Pitino hasn't approved or rejected Woods' request.

First, I would like to say that I believe everyone deserves a second chance. BUT, that second chance should come after some time has passed. Once he's proven he can stay out of trouble...once he can prove he's a changed man...once he learns his lesson...he should get a second chance. It’s been SIX WEEKS. Woods hasn’t grown up or changed in a month and a half. You don’t magically mature in that amount of time.


I admit I assumed Woods would end up at a mid-major program. The reward far outweighs the risk for a smaller school. But Woods has high-major talent. He has the potential to be great, and I’m not surprised someone is taking a chance on him. The problem I have with Pitino taking him is more about timing, rather than the decision itself. Bringing in Tony Woods is foolish. Does he really think this is the way you rebuild your reputation? Does he really think this is a good move for the University? I understand that over 20 schools inquired about Tony Woods. And yes, I know Kentucky was one of them. With Coach Calipari’s history and the more recent (albeit entirely different) situations with Eric Bledsoe and Enes Kanter, he doesn’t need a high-profile recruit with such baggage. It would be stupid for Calipari to bring in Woods. It would be ridiculous for Bruce Pearl to do the same. But Pitino is desperate. And thank God he is, because I don’t want Tony Woods anywhere near Lexington. It looks like Pitino is willing to sacrifice what's left of his reputation to bring in a high-profile, basketball "star."

Mark Ennis (@Mengus22), who runs www.collisioncourseblog.com, a Louisville Cardinals blog, tweeted, “Would you let your daughter go anywhere near Louisville basketball right now?” The answer is no. And that pretty much sums it up.

NFL Week 5

- The New York Giants looked good on both sides of the ball, showing how dangerous this team can be when they put it all together. The Giants jumped out to a 21-0 lead early in the 2nd quarter, forcing Matt Schaub and the Houston Texans to throw the ball all over the field in an attempt to catch up. The Giants held Arian Foster and the Texans to a franchise-low of 24 rushing yards. Eli Manning put up solid numbers, despite throwing two interceptions. Giants' WR Hakeem Nicks was one catch short of the franchise record for receptions in a game, catching 12 balls, two of those for touchdowns. The Giants went on to win 34-10.

- The Buffalo Bills are off to their worst start in 25 years. The Bills are 0-5 after losing 36-26 to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jacksonville run-game proved to be the difference, as the Jaguars ran for over 200 yards. The Jaguars may have committed three turnovers, but it was their ability to move the ball on the ground that led to an 11-minute difference in time-of-possession. Rushing yards and TOP were really the only differences in the box score, but it was enough for the Jaguars to earn the win.

- The Bengals lost again.....to the Tampa Bay Bucs, 24-21. Carson Palmer finished the game with a 58.9 passer rating, throwing for 209 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions. One of those interceptions was returned 11 yards for a touchdown by Tampa Bay's Cody Grimm. Palmer looks uncomfortable in the pocket at times, and his accuracy comes and goes. But the Bengals' offensive struggles are not all his fault. The Bengals' receivers are dropping balls. Three of Palmer's passes on third down were dropped by open receivers. Then you have Cedric Benson. He is without a doubt the Bengals' MVP. Benson finished with 144 yards on 23 carries. You would think that when you have a running back as effective as Benson, averaging over 6 yards per carry, you would continue to give him the ball. So Palmer's receivers AND Coach Marvin Lewis deserve some of the blame for this slow start as well. When talking about the Bengals' struggles you also have to mention the absurd amount of penalties (9 penalties for 60 yards). The Bengals continue to lead the league in false start penalties.



- The Detroit Lions destroyed the St. Louis Rams. The previously winless Lions won 44-6, led by QB Shaun Hill. Hill finished with 227 yards and three touchdowns, good enough for a QB rating of 117.6. While Detroit struggled on the ground, they made up for it with the passing game. Stefan Logan added a 105-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. And the Lions finished off the Rams with a 42-yard interception return by Alphonso Smith with only seven minutes left to play.

- The Indianapolis Colts handed the Kansas City Chiefs their first loss. After only five weeks, there are no undefeated teams left in the NFL. Peyton Manning played his worst game in a couple of years, but backup running back Mike Hart came to the rescue. Hart scored the game's only touchdown with four minutes left in the game to give the Colts the 19-12 victory.

- The Washington Redskins kicked their way to an overtime victory against the Green Bay Packers. The Redskins scored 10 unanswered points in the 4th quarter, including a Graham Gano field goal with a minute left, to send the game into overtime. Packers' kicker Mason Crosby missed a field goal from 53 yards out that would've won the game for Green Bay in regulation. In overtime, Graham Gano kicked a 33-yard field goal to give the Redskins the win, 13-10. The Packers not only lost the game, but they lost starting tight end Jermichael Finley to a knee injury, which will sideline him for several weeks. And quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered a concussion that could keep him out next week as well.


- You don't need a quarterback to win in Chicago. All you need is Matt Forte. Bears' quarterback Todd Collins threw for 32 yards and four interceptions...22 of those yards to running back Matt Forte. Forte dominated the Carolina Panthers defense, racking up 166 yards on the ground, including two touchdowns. Forte and the Bears' defense led Chicago to a 23-6 victory over the winless Carolina Panthers.



- Ray Rice ran over the Denver Broncos. Rice ran for 133 yards and two touchdowns. Willis McGahee added another 67 yards on the ground and a touchdown of his own. Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco didn't need to have a big game, and he didn't. But Flacco managed the game and did just enough (14/25 for 196 yards) for the Ravens to beat the Denver Broncos, 31-17. Broncos' quarterback Kyle Orton had a big day (22/38 for 314 yards, 2 TDs) in a losing effort. Wide receiver Brandon Lloyd was the beneficiary of Orton's big day, catching five balls for 135 yards and two touchdowns.


- Undrafted rookie quarterback Max Hall led the Arizona Cardinals to a victory over the defending champs. Hall and the Cardinals took advantage of the Saints' four turnovers to win, 30-20. The Cardinals scored 30 points without a passing or rushing touchdown, becoming only the second team in NFL history to do so. Arizona score three times on defense, accounting for all three of the Cardinals' touchdowns. Levi Brown returned a fumble 2 yards for a touchdown in the opening quarter. Kerry Rhodes returned a fumble 27 yards for a touchdown, and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie returned an interception 28 yards for a touchdown, both in the fourth quarter, to seal the victory.

- The Atlanta Falcons beat the battered Cleveland Browns, 20-10. The Falcons scored a go-ahead touchdown with four minutes left in the game, sealing the victory. Atlanta defensive end Kroy Biermann intercepted a pass and rumbled 41 yards for the touchdown. The Browns' tarting running back Peyton Hillis has a pulled quadriceps muscle. And the Cleveland quarterbacks are beat up as well. Seneca Wallace left the game with an ankle injury, and Jake Delhomme has had his own ankle issues. Coly McCoy is the only other quarterback on the roster, so the Browns could be in bad shape if Wallace or Delhomme aren't healthy going forward.




- The Cowboys essentially gave away the game against the Tennessee Titans. Tony Romo threw for 406 yards and three touchdowns, but he also threw three interceptions. With three turnovers and 12 penalties for 133 yards the Cowboys may have been lucky to be in the game against the Titans. After Romo hit Jason Witten for a game-tying touchdown with a little over four minutes left, the Cowboys were hit with a penalty for excessive celebration. In my opinion, the penalty was ridiculous, but in late-game situations, you shouldn't put yourself in that position in the first place. Hand the ball to the referee and go on. That penalty pushed back the kickoff. After a long return the Titans were in a good position to regain the lead. And they did so after Chris Johnson scored a 1-yard touchdown with 3:28 left on the clock. Romo threw his third pick of the game on the ensuing drive, and the Titans hung on to win, 34-27. The Cowboys, at 1-3, are off to their worst start in nine years. The Titans' Chris Johnson finished with 2 touchdowns and 131 yard on the ground.

- The Oakland Raiders needed everything they could get to beat the San Diego Chargers. The Raiders began the afternoon with a safety. Then kicker Sebastian Janikowski kicked a 50-yard field goal. Later in the first quarter the Raiders blocked a punt and Hiram Eugene returned it for a touchdown. After scoring in a more conventional manner the next two quarters (another Janikowski field goal, Zach Miller reception, Michael Bush run) the Raiders added a 64-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. San Diego lost 35-27 despite quarterback Philip Rivers' 431 yards passing and two touchdowns. It was the second time in Rivers' career he has thrown for over 430 yards and lost. Chargers' wide receiver Malcolm Floyd had a huge day, with 213 receiving yards a touchdown. Floyd became the second receiver this year to go over 200 yards. The other being the Bengals' Terrell Owens.

- The 49ers remain winless. The Philadelphia Eagles took advantage of San Francisco's five turnovers and ten penalties to win 27-24. The 49ers were a trendy pick to win the NFC West before the season began. Now at 0-5 that seems like a lost cause. But there is time to turn it around, especially in a weak division.

- The New York Jets spoiled Randy Moss's return to Minnesota. Moss caught 4 balls for 81 yards in his first game back with the Vikings. One catch was a 37-yard touchdown pass from Brett Favre. Favre threw another two touchdown passes to receiver Percy Harvin. But the Vikings were down by two late in the fourth quarter, when Favre threw his only interception of the game. The Jets' Dwight Lowery returned the interception 26-yards for a touchdown, giving New York a 9-point lead. The Jets held on to win, 29-20.

Randy Moss back in the Twin Cities

Brett Favre is one happy old man this morning. Minnesota has acquired WR Randy Moss from the New England Patriots. What did they have to give up? Only a 3rd round pick in next year's draft. It was clear Moss was unhappy in New England, so the fact the Patriots dumped Moss is no surprise. But the Patriots gave up Tom Brady's best and most feared offensive weapon for a future draft pick. The emergence of rookie tight ends Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski have been great for the Patriots' passing game. But New England must be extremely confident in WR Brandon Tate's ability to be a legit deep threat to trade Moss.


This was a great move for the Minnesota Vikings. Once Sidney Rice comes back from injury, the Vikings may have the best group of wide receivers in the league. How do you defend Moss, Rice, Percy Harvin, and Visanthe Shiancoe, with Adrian Peterson in the backfield? Good luck to those that will try. The Patriots, on the other hand, may regret this move in December when they're battling the New York Jets for the AFC East title.

NFL Week 4

The NFL Week 4 recap is a little shorter than usual. I've been extremely busy at work and there have been some family issues that have required my attention.
I hope that next week the blog, and the NFL recap, will be back to normal.


- Tom Brady earned his 100th career victory as the Patriots pounded the Dolphins, 41-14. Randy Moss was held without a catch for the first time in over three years. It was New England's Patrick Chung who was the star of the night. He blocked two kicks and had a 51-yard interception return for a touchdown. The Patriots had three touchdowns on defense/special teams. New England is now tied with the New York Jets for first-place in the AFC East.


- The Falcons won on a second straight game on a game-winning field goal by kicker Matt Bryant. The 49ers jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter, but the Falcons scored 16 unanswered points, including three field goals by Bryant, to win 16-14.


- For the first time in two years, LaDainian Tomlinson rushed for at least 100 yards. Tomlinson rushed 19 times for 133 yards and two touchdowns. Shonn Greene added another 117 yards on the ground. Jets' QB Mark Sanchez threw for 161 yards and 2 touchdowns, good for a 106.4 QB rating, leading the Jets to a 38-14 victory over the winless Buffalo Bills.. Sanchez still hasn't thrown an interception this season. And next week the Jets will only get better; WR Santonio Holmes, CB Darrelle Revis, and LB Calvin Pace are set to return next week against the Vikings.

- The Bengals lost to the Browns. No comment.

- Joe Flacco is growing up. With the Ravens down 4 to the Steelers, Flacco hit T.J. Houshmandzadeh with an 18-yard pass for a touchdown, leaving only 30 seconds on the clock. The Ravens, led by Flacco, won a hard fought game against the previously undefeated Steelers. The Ravens now have wins on the road against the Jets and Steelers. Baltimore won at home against Cleveland. The Ravens' only loss came on the road against defending AFC North Champion Cincinnati.


- Jay Cutler is lucky to be alive. Cutler was sacked nine times in the first half against the New York Giants. The Giants' pass rushers made it through the Bears' offensive line with ease, and Cutler couldn't get rid of the ball fast enough. The last of the sacks caused a concussion, forcing Cutler to sit the rest of the game. The Giants went on to win, 17-3.

- The Jaguars had an answer for a late-game touchdown drive by Peyton Manning. The teams were never separated by more than 7 points, as the teams went back and forth from the opening kickoff. The Jaguars went up by 7 on a Maurice Jones-Drew touchdown with a little over two minutes left. As he's done many times before, Peyton Manning led the Colts down the field in less than 80 seconds, finishing the drive with a touchdown pass to Austin Collie. So the game is over, right? Not this time. David Garrard got the Jaguars into field goal range...well, at least close enough for kicker Josh Scobee. Scobee kicked a 59-yard field goal as time expired to give the Jaguars the win, 31-28.

- Other scores from Week 4:

Green Bay Packers 28 Detroit Lions 26
Denver Broncos 26 Tennessee Titans 20
St. Louis Rams 20 Seattle Seahawks 3
Houston Texans 31 Oakland Raiders 24
San Diego Chargers 41 Arizona Cardinals 10
Washington Redskins 17 Philadelphia Eagles 14
New Orleans Saints 16 Carolina Panthers 14

Reds being investigated...

The Cincinnati Reds have won their first division title in 15 years. The postgame celebration was nothing out of the ordinary; lots of yelling and jumping around, some champagne spraying, and some cigar smoking. But the aftermath of that celebration is anything but ordinary.

Reds' owner Bob Castellini joined the team in the clubhouse after the game to celebrate. Castellini was seen on TV passing out victory cigars, and lighting one up himself. That's when at least five people who were watching the celebration on TV reported the organization for violating Ohio's indoor-smoking ban. And yes, I'm serious. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the five people called the state's smoking ban complaint hotline. Now, the Cincinnati Health Department will investigate. A health inspector will make a surprise visit to Great American Ball Park within the next 30 days.

Jane Prendergast, from the Enquirer writes,

"If the inspector sees someone smoking, the Reds will be sent a letter notifying them of the violation, which the team can appeal. No fine is attached to any initial violation. If another complaint is filed and an inspector responds again to the ballpark and sees someone smoking, the Reds could be fined $100. The fine escalates to $500 after that."

I'm a non-smoker. I can't stand the smell of cigarette smoke. I think indoor-smoking bans are a great idea. BUT, I just want to say, this is one of the most ridiculous things I've ever heard. The people that made the anonymous complaints weren't even there. So why was it necessary to make that phone call? The people that made those phone calls must lead miserable lives. Or it was just a couple of idiots with nothing better to do. With that being said, it was probably Yadier Molina and Chris Carpenter.

link to the article in the Cincinnati Enquirer... http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20100930/SPT04/10010340/1055/NEWS/Reds-cigars-bring-complaints

Trouble in East Lansing

According to The Michigan Messenger two Michigan State University basketball players are in trouble, accused of sexual assault. The incident occurred in August, and the two players involved are described as "high-profile."

The MSU police department recommended the men be charged with Criminal Sexual Conduct 1, but Ingham County Prosecutor Stuart Dunnings III has declined to prosecute the case.

For more information about the case, you can read the entire article by Todd A. Heyward of The Michigan Messenger here http://michiganmessenger.com/42253/msu-sexual-assault

In the article, Heyward writes,

"Michigan Messenger is not naming the players because they have not been arrested or charged with a crime. The names have been confirmed by law enforcement and other sources, as well as Dunnings, who released the police report after Messenger filed a Freedom of Information Act request citing the names of the accused. Messenger does not report the names of sexual assault victims without their consent."

While I definitely agree the victim's name should be withheld, the names of the two players being accused in this case need to be released. We're talking about a group of 12-14 young men. Two of the players have been accused of committing a crime. The other members of the team are NOT INVOLVED. It's ridiculous to withhold the names of the two men who are involved. Speculation around East Lansing, and around the MSU campus (and around the country once the national media picks up the story - some already have) will run wild. While I don't think any member of the media would speculate publicly, many people will begin to formulate their opinions, thus resulting in rumors. If you were a Michigan State basketball player, how would you feel? Two of your teammates have been accused of a sick, disgusting crime, and everyone knows about it. But until the names are released someone may think it was you, because the Michigan Messenger is sitting on that information. Withholding the names of the two men accused in this incident is irresponsible, and unfair to the MSU players that are not involved.

2010 NL Central Division Champions

After 9 straight losing seasons and a 15-year playoff drought, the Reds are in. Last night the Reds clinched the NL Central Division on a walk-off homerun by rightfielder Jay Bruce. In the bottom of the 9th, with the game tied at 2, Jay Bruce homered on the first pitch he saw from the Astros' Tim Byrdak. Bruce became the fifth player in MLB history to hit a walk-off homerun to clinch a playoff spot.


The Reds last made the playoffs in 1995. It's been 20 years since they've won the World Series. But it feels like an eternity. I was only six-years-old when the Reds swept the defending champion Oakland A's to win the 1990 World Series. Some of my all-time favorite players were a part of that Reds team; Barry Larkin, Chris Sabo, Eric Davis, Paul O'Neil, and the "Nasty Boys." The Reds were playing a "pre-steroids" Mark McGwire and the heavily favored Oakland A's.


The Reds pounded the A's in Game 1, behind an Eric Davis homerun and the start of Billy Hatcher's streak of seven consecutive hits. Game 2 went into extra innings with the Reds winning in the bottom of the 10th on a walk-off single by Joe Oliver. In Game 3, Chris Sabo hit two homeruns and the Reds won decisively. Jose Rijo retired 20 consecutive batters in Game 4, leading the Reds to their first World Series championship in 14 years. Rijo was named World Series MVP.

The Reds are making their second playoff appearance since that 1990 World Series Championship and the first since 1995. They came close in 1999, losing a playoff for a wild-card berth against the New York Mets. The Reds finished with a winning-record in 2000, but still didn't make the playoffs. In the last fifteen years the Reds have been through three owners, five general managers, and seven managers. Ray Knight, Jack McKeon, Bob Boone, Dave Miley, Jerry Narron, and Pete Mackanin all tried to lead the Reds back to the playoffs after Davey Johnson did it in 1995. And after the Reds hired Dusty Baker it didn't get any better. Baker's first two seasons in Cincinnati were awful, finishing 5th (74-88) in 2008 and 4th (78-84) in 2009. But Cincinnati GM Walt Jocketty had faith in Dusty. As it turns out, it was a great decision.

Baker deserves alot of credit for leading this young team to the playoffs. No one expected the Reds to be here. And they've done it by being good on offense and defenese, at every position. Cincinnati is a solid defensive team; 1B Joey Votto, 2B Brandon Phillips, 3B Scott Rolen, SS Orlando Cabrera, LF Jonny Gomes, CF Drew Stubbs, and RF Jay Bruce all rank in the top-6 in fielding percentage in the National League. And the Reds are even better swinging the bat. Currently, the Reds lead the National League in runs scored (768), batting average (.271), hits (1461), home runs (181), slugging percentage (.435), and they're tied for first in on-base percentage (.338). Arthur Rhodes, Scott Rolen, Brandon Phillips, and Joey Votto were NL All-Stars. Votto should win the National League MVP. And newcomer Aroldis Chapman (RP) is the most exciting player in baseball.


The Reds go into the postseason with some question marks. In my opinion the biggest question concerns the bullpen, and more specifically, Reds' closer Francisco Cordero. Can Cordero get it together? Cordero has a 6.75 ERA in his last 9.1 innings. He has given up 15 hits and 7 earned runs. I'm not worried about the offense. I'm not even worried about the sometimes inconsistent pitching staff. But the lack of a dominant closer can doom a team in the postseason. Hopefully CoCo will come through in October.

Even with some concerns, I'm going into the postseason optimistic. I'm happy and content with a division title and playoff appearance. How could you not be after being a Reds fan for the past 20 years? But I want the Redlegs to make a run. My 1990 World Series Championship t-shirt is getting really thin and worn out. I want a new one.

NFL Week 3

- Anquan Boldin catches alot of balls. Boldin caught 8 passes for 142 yards and 3 touchdowns on Sunday. He has 606 receptions in 98 games, reaching 600 catches in the fewest amount of games in NFL history. Oh, and the Ravens beat the Browns.

- The Kansas City Chiefs are 3-0...half way to their win total from the last two seasons combined. The Chiefs were 4-12 last year and 2-14 in 2008. The Chiefs beat the 49ers, 31-10.

- Garrett Hartley is one lonely dude tonight. It's his fault the Saints are 2-1 instead of 3-0. New Orleans lost to the Atlanta Falcons in overtime after Hartley missed a 29-yard chip shot. After the missed field goal by Hartley, the Falcons' Matt Bryant kicked a 46-yard game-winner. And now, an excerpt from Adam Sandler's song, "The Lonesome Kicker."

"Once again, I'm ignored by my teammates and all my coaches
"Go back where you came from!" Scream 70,000 fans
Well, I know I could win their love back
By catching a winning touch-down
But, unfortunately, I was born with these very small hands

And I hope that the cameras don't come in too close
'Cause they might see the tears in my eyes
As I sit on this bench made of cold-hearted wood
And the splinters go deep in my thighs
And the towel boy snickers as he walks by
The Lonesome Kicker"

- The New York Giants beat the New York Giants, with Tennessee picking up the win.

- The freakin' Pittsburgh Steelers continue to win without Big Ben. I was really looking forward to them being in a hole when Worthlessberger came back. Instead, they sit atop the AFC North at 3-0. Charlie Batch played his best game as a Steeler, and Pittsburgh beat Tampa Bay 38-13.


- Cedric Benson is the Bengals offense. He scored both of Cincy's touchdowns. Carson Palmer struggled again. But the defense (and Ced) stepped up for Cincinnati, as the Bengals beat the Panthers and rookie QB Jimmy Clausen, 20-7.

- Wade Phillips can breathe a little easier. The Dallas Cowboys actually showed up today, including Roy Williams and Marion Barber, giving Wade a little more time in "Big D." The Cowboys proved they can be legit contenders in the NFC. The Cowboys beat the Houston Texans, 27-13.



- Sam Bradford earned his first win as a starter in the NFL. The Rams beat Donovan McNabb and the Redskins 30-16, behind a solid performance by the rookie, Bradford. He wasn't great, but he was good enough. The running back duo of Steven Jackson and Kenneth Darby may have had a little to do with the win, combining for 109 yards and 2 touchdowns. The Redskins weren't good when they really needed to be, going 1-10 on third down and 0-3 in the red zone.

- Peyton Manning is really good. Manning was missing two of his favorite targets, but Austin Collie stepped up for his quarterback. Collie caught 12 passes for 171 yards and 2 touchdowns. Broncos' QB Kyle Orton threw for a whopping 476 yards, but that wasn't enough to overcome 2 turnovers and 60 yards of penalties. The Colts won, 27-13, to move to 2-1 on the season.


- Tom Brady is also really good. Brady completed 78% of his passes for 252 yards and 3 touchdowns. That was good enough for a 142.6 QB rating. The Patriots defense gave up 30 points to the Buffalo Bills, but Brady, Moss, and company were good for 38 points as the Patriots moved to 2-1.

- I'm sick of Brett Favre and it's only week 3. The Vikings beat the Lions 24-10, thanks to Adrian Peterson's 160 yards and 2 touchdowns.

- Michael Vick destroyed the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Eagles beat the Jags 28-3 and Vick accounted for all 4 of the Eagles' touchdowns. Vick threw for 291 yards and 3 TDs, and rushed for 30 yards and 1 TD. He looked comfortable in the pocket and he didn't run unless he needed to. Looks like Andy Reid made the right decision.

- Maybe Sebastian Janikowski and Garrett Hartley can be friends. After making 19 consecutive field goals between 30 and 39 yards, Janikowski missed a 32-yard field goal that would've won the game for Oakland. The Raiders lost to the Cardinals, 24-23. Janikowski also missed a 41-yarder and a 58-yarder.

- What did the Seahawks need to beat the Chargers? How about two Leon Washington kickoff return touchdowns. Washington returned the opening kickoff of the 2nd half 101-yards for a touchdown. Then, in the 4th quarter after the Chargers tied the game at 20, Washington returned a kickoff 99-yards for another touchdown. The Seahawks won 27-20, despite a 455-yard performance by Chargers' QB Philip Rivers.

- Seeing Braylon Edwards playing football tonight made me want to punch someone. Well, not just anyone, maybe Edwards or Rex Ryan, Mike Tannenbaum, or Woody Johnson. Or maybe all four.

- What a rough Monday night for the Packers. Mason Crosby had a 37-yard field goal blocked. A Jay Cutler pass over the middle was picked off late in the 4th quarter, but a roughing the passer penalty negated the interception. Packers' WR James Jones fumbled the ball with a little over 2 minutes left, giving the Bears great field position. And with less than 60 seconds left another inteception was negated by another penalty, this time a defensive pass interference call on the Packers' Morgan Burnett. This set up a game-winning field goal by the Bears' Robbie Gould with only seconds remaining. Despite the absurd number of penalties (17 for 145 yards), the turnovers, and dropped passes the Packers were in the game all night. Aaron Rodgers deserved to win the game. Jay Cutler didn't. But the Packers' mistakes and Devin Hester's 62-yard punt-return touchdown bailed him out. The Bears remain undefeated and the Packers move to 2-1.

- An 18-game NFL season is a "done deal?" Indianapolis Colts president Bill Polian said today,

"I think that the owners, and principally the commissioner, have decided that it's the way to go, and so the debate, such as it was, is over."

Although the NFL has yet to comment on Polian's remarks, it's looking more and more likely this is the direction the NFL is heading. I think they're making a mistake, but as of right now, no official decision has been made.


- Tim Tebow was demoted to the 3rd-string quarterback by the Denver Broncos. Broncos' coach Josh McDaniels better watch out this week...

Bledsoe Report and a few random notes

- The independent law firm that was investigating Eric Bledsoe's transcript released its report yesterday. After wasting alot of time and thousands of dollars, they found...nothing. Basically the law firm doesn't believe the reasons the teacher gave for changing the grade. The teacher and superintendent stand behind the grade change, saying that after Bledsoe made up work he earned the 'A' in Algebra III. The school board plans to take no action, making it unlikely the NCAA will take any action against UK. The NCAA and UK will still meet to discuss the report, but UK spokesperson Dewayne Peevy said as far as the University of Kentucky is concerned, the matter is closed.

and some random notes from this week...

- Free Enes.


- Michael Vick has been named the starting QB for the Eagles, prompting the Philadelphia Daily News to print a distasteful, offensive headline on the front page of Wednesday's paper. The headline reads, "Top Dog." The man has paid his debt to society, but some media members refuse to let it go.

- Carmelo Anthony to the Nets? That would be HUGE for the New Jersey Nets, who missed out on all of the top-tier free agents over the summer. He's a punk, but a punk that can turn around a struggling franchise.

- MLB commissioner Bud Selig plans to look into the possibility of expanding the playoffs. Great, let's make a season many think is too long already, even longer. If he thinks expanding the number of teams for the playoffs will help his league compete with the NFL and college football for ratings and attention in October and November, he's sadly mistaken.



- Tom Brady needs a haircut. He looks ridiculous. Maybe Troy Polamalu will ask Brady to join him in those stupid Head & Shoulders commercials.

- Blue turf is stupid. Go Beavers!

Braylon Edwards is an idiot.

New York Jets WR Braylon Edwards was arrested Tuesday morning for driving under the influence. Edwards' blood-alcohol level was 0.16, which is twice the legal limit in New York. There is no excuse for driving drunk. First and foremost, he could've killed himself or someone else. Also, he may face a suspension from the Jets and/or the NFL. He is a crucial component of the Jets' offense, and in a competitive AFC East every game is extremely important. Jets' QB Mark Sanchez needs all of the help he can get. Now he may be missing his best WR for a game or two.

I have no problem with Braylon Edwards or any other NFL player going out and having a few drinks. They are allowed to have a life outside of football. But I do have a problem with him, or anyone else, getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. In fact, there aren't many things that make me angrier and more frustrated than someone drinking and driving. There's no reason for anyone to do it. There is definitely no reason why someone making over $4 million (Edwards' 2010 salary is $4.355 million) this year can't afford a taxi or personal chauffeur. Or leave your car at the bar/club and call a friend. Or if you know you have to drive later, just don't drink. It's that easy. But Braylon Edwards, just like Donte Stallworth, Vincent Jackson, Rey Maualuga, etc., is a dumbass. He endangered his life, the lives of others, and his NFL career. He let his teammates down. He let his fans down. He let the coaches, the Jets organization, and the NFL down. He deserves to be punished, by the state of New York and the NFL.

UPDATE: Braylon Edwards will be active for Sunday's game, but will not start. Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum said,

"In light of the facts as we have them, [coach] Rex [Ryan], [owner] Woody [Johnson] and I have decided he will not start. He will dress, he will play at some point. When, we don't know. This is an area we pour a lot of organizational resources into. We're very disappointed in what happened."

This is absolutely ridiculous. So the fact that he was driving drunk with a blood-alcohol level twice the legal limit, with two other players in the car, isn't enough to sit this dude down for at least a game? You're so "disappointed" that you're gonna' let this fool play? He won't start, but once the Jets are down by a touchdown he'll be in the game, right? The New York Jets should be ashamed and if I were a Jets fan, I would be embarrassed that my team is letting this happen.

NFL Week 2

- The Buccaneers, Dolphins, and Chiefs are 2-0. The Cowboys and Vikings are 0-2. Anyone see that coming?


- Michael Vick is back. And yes I said the same thing last week. But I'll admit that after I said it last week I remained a little skeptical. Today Vick led the Eagles to a 35-32 victory over the Detroit Lions. His numbers were solid. He threw for 284 yards, completing 21 of 34 passes, for two touchdowns. He also rushed 7 times for 37 yards. He has proven to me that he can be a starting quarterback in the NFL. Sadly for him I'm not a coach or general manager. Eagles' QB Kevin Kolb suffered a concussion last week against the Packers and was ruled out by this week by the teams' medical staff. But head coach Andy Reid said that next week, barring complications, Kolb will be the starter. After the game Reid said about Vick,

"We've got more plays for him than we did a year ago, so he'll be on the field,"

So Vick will be on the field, but in a limited role.

- Brett Favre is playing like a 40-year-old quarterback that missed most of training camp.

- The Pittsburgh defense saved the day. On a day when the offense was terrible, the Steelers forced 7 turnovers. The Big Ben-less Steelers are still undefeated.



- As impressed as I was with Packers' QB Aaron Rodgers' performance on the field today, I was unimpressed with his weak attempt at the "Lambeau Leap?" The dude was so exhausted after 9-yard touchdown run in the 3rd quarter he couldn't make it up into the stands. Fail.

- Catch of the day: Randy Moss smoked Darrelle Revis and made a sick one-handed catch for a 34-yard touchdown. Revis left the island with a tweaked hamstring and hurt feelings.

- The Bengals were unimpressive, again. But they managed to kick their way to a win against AFC North rival Baltimore. I'm not sure who deserves more credit for the Bengals win: Bengals Kicker Mike Nugent, Ravens QB Joe Flacco, or Ravens Offensive Coordinator Cam Cameron?



- In case you didn't see the underwhelming AFC North matchup, let me fill you in on what happened. Ravens' RB Ray Rice rushed for 87 yards on 16 carries. He averaged 5.4 yards per carry. Ravens' QB Joe Flacco was 17/39 for 154 yards, averaging 3.9 yards per completion. Flacco also threw 4 interceptions. Meanwhile, Carson Palmer was awful...at least when he threw to T.O. and Ochocinco. The duo combined for 7 catches on 20 targets. Palmer threw a total of 12 passes to rookie WR Jordan Shipley, and TEs Jermaine Gresham and Reggie Kelly. Eight of those 12 passes were completed. The Bengals were 3-18 on third down and 0-4 in the red zone. Bengals Kicker Mike Nugent was 5/5, scoring all 15 of the teams' points. In other words, the Bengals should thank Flacco (for the 4 picks) and Cam Cameron (for not giving Ray Rice the ball more) for the ugly win.

- So maybe Jahvid Best is for real. I pretty much ignored him last week. I know he had two touchdowns, but he only had 20 yards on 14 carries. But his numbers this week were too good to ignore. Best rushed for 78 yards on 17 carries with two touchdowns. He added 9 catches for 154, with one of those catches going for a touchdown. I think 232 yards of total offense and 3 touchdowns makes him legit.

- The Patriots are undefeated in the first half of games this year. Too bad they are forced to play the second half. Last week, after dominating the Bengals in the first half, they were out played in the third and fourth quarters. Luckily, their 24-3 lead was insurmountable. This week they weren't as lucky. The Patriots took a 14-10 lead into the locker room against the New York Jets. But the second half belonged to QB Mark Sanchez and the Jets. After the game Tom Brady said the Patriots "sucked." That pretty much sums it up. But the season is two-weeks young, and I'm still picking the Patriots to win the AFC East.

- Rough day for my fantasy football teams. Unless Pierre Thomas and the New Orleans defense combine for 20+ points on Monday Night Football, I'm going 0-3 this week. Chris Johnson (34 yards, 0 touchdowns today) will make it up to me. Brett Favre (0 touchdowns, 3 interceptions)? I'm not so sure. Someone trade me a quarterback. UPDATE: Pierre Thomas and the New Orleans defense saved me from a winless week.

- The 49ers beat themselves. The silly mistakes and turnovers were too much to overcome. There was a bad snap that resulted in a safety, a couple of interceptions, and a couple of fumbles. Last night the Saints were beatable. The 49ers had more first downs, were better on 3rd down, were better in the red zone, rushed the ball better, and had more passing yards than the Saints. The Saints, however, had no turnovers, and move to 2-0 on the season.

National League Triple Crown Update

Since ESPN spends all morning talking about the American League, or more specifically, the AL East, here's an update on the National League triple crown race.

St. Louis Cardinals 1B Albert Pujols, Colorado Rockies OF Carlos Gonzalez, and Cincinnati Reds 1B Joey Votto are all still among the National League leaders in all three triple crown categories.

Home Runs
1. Albert Pujols - 39
3. Joey Votto - 34
4. Carols Gonzalez - 32

Batting Average
1. Carlos Gonzalez - .341
3. Joey Votto - .325
6. Albert Pujuols - .307

RBI
1. Carols Gonzalez - 106
2. Albert Pujols - 104
2. Joey Votto - 104

If Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz, and Evan Longoria were in a race for the AL Triple Crown, it would be the lead story on Sportscenter every day. But the NL, and more specifically the Rockies and Reds, get little attention from the ultimate sports network. I don't think we'll see a triple crown winner. Carlos Gonzalez probably has the batting title wrapped up, and Pujols will more than likely finish with the most home runs. But it's a good story, a story that gets no love from ESPN. Depending on how their respective teams finish, these three guys will be in the conversation for NL MVP. Here's to hoping ESPN and baseball fans everywhere are paying attention.