NFL Football Blogs

1. WR Wes Welker feels it worst, but he wasn’t the only one. He will be kept awake at night by a fourth quarter drop that would had been a first down inside the 20. On the next play, WR Deion Branch let a pass hit the ground as he crossed deep over the middle. On the Patriots final drive, Branch dropped another pass over the deep middle. It appeared the ball was deflected, but the ball did pass through his hands. Lastly was TE Aaron Hernandez on a probable 10-yard gain on the final drive, but he heard the footsteps of the approaching linebacker.

Continue reading "Pick Six: Super Bowl XLVI"

I’ve been avoiding the internet like a plague all day, albeit a plague that I would desperately like to get a piece of. Writing about a super bowl that has already occurred but of which I don’t know the outcome is a bit like apologizing a couple minutes before unfurling a massive fart.

Continue reading "Previewing (Or Reviewing?) the Super Bowl"

The 2012 Super Bowl is in the books and I’m finally finished writing. Took me long enough. (I was distracted by Puppy Bowl VIII.) So without further ado, here’s the season’s last edition of The Final Drive!

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Super Bowl XLVI"

It’s finally here. After a drawn-out lockout, a last minute deal, rushed training camps, an eventful regular season and a thrilling postseason, Super Bowl XLVI is upon us. On Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis the NFL’s elite will be decided. After breaking down the Patriots and Giants individually (as well as the Prop Bets), it’s time to actually analyze how this game is going to play out.

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Super Bowl XLVI"

Just four years ago the New York Giants pulled off arguably the greatest upset in Super Bowl history by beating the 18-0 Patriots, ruining New England’s bid for perfection and keeping the Pats from their place in history.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Super Bowl XLVI"

Following a dreadful loss to the lowly Washington Redskins to fall to 7-7 with only two games left, everyone had counted out the New York Giants.  That is, everyone except the Giants themselves, who kept their quiet confidence as they rolled off two victories to end the season and squeak into the fourth seed in the NFC. Then they mustered up two dominant performances as their defense shut out the Atlanta Falcons and stymied the 15-1 Green Bay Packers and Aaron Rodgers. Now they find themselves in a familiar setting: in the biggest game of the year against the New England Patriots, whom I covered yesterday. Now the Giants are up in the rotation!

Continue reading "Breaking Down the Bowl: New York Giants"

Shockingly enough, the supposedly ring-bearing Patriots haven’t won a Super Bowl since the 2004 season. As great as they have seemed in recent years, they’ve flopped when it comes to the postseason. This year has been different. They’re currently on a ten game win streak where they’ve avenged their horrible 2009 loss to the Ravens on their way to a rematch with the Giant team that stole their chance at immortality. In the first of my articles previewing Super Bowl XLVI, I’m breaking down the New England Patriots.

Continue reading "Breaking Down the Bowl: New England Patriots"

Alright Bear fans, your long wait is over. After turnover on the coaching staff (which is not yet completed), Ted Philips has finished his search for the fifth GM of the Chicago Bears. His name? Phil Emery. Excited yet?

Continue reading "Bears select Phil Emery to be next ..."

November 6, 2011. With just 1:36 left to play, QB Eli Manning drove the New York Giants offense 80 yards in just 1:21 for a 24-20 come from behind win over the Patriots in New England.

Fast forward 13 weeks and these two teams will meet again, this time with the stakes much higher. This is the second time these two teams will play for the Lombardi Trophy, just four years after the Giants pulled off arguably the greatest upset in Super Bowl history by defeating the 18-0 Patriots, 17-14.

Continue reading "A Lot Has Changed Since the Regular Season Game"

1. DT Vince Wilfork was in beast mode all afternoon. Six tackles and a sack doesn’t begin to explain his influence on the game. Wilfork had at three tackles for a loss and his share of pressure on QB Joe Flacco. It was a dominant performance by a team leader showing what it takes to get to a Super Bowl. It was arguably Wilfork’s best game in the biggest game of the year.

Continue reading "Pick Six: AFC Championship"

How many of you had to get an oxygen tank at some point today? These playoffs are been thrilling down to the wire in almost every game, and Conference Championship Sunday lived up to expectations. Both games went down to the wire and left us with two worthy Super Bowl contestants. Let’s break them down in The Final Drive!

Continue reading "The Final Drive: 2012 Conference ..."

With the AFC spot in the Super Bowl currently being decided, the possible NFC participants are anxiously awaiting their turn in the national spotlight. And by national spotlight, of course I mean The Opening Drive!

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: 2012 NFC Championship"

It’s time to decide the Super Bowl contestants! With four teams left in the tournament, the Conference Championships take center stage on the best Sunday of football all year. Up first, the AFC title game!

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: 2012 AFC Championship"

After a playoff win over San Diego, several Patriots mocked then-Chargers LB Shawn Merriman’s “Lights Out” sack celebration right on the Chargers logo at midfield.

In a thorough dismantling of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Championship played in Pittsburgh, WR Deion Branch was caught on camera asking the fans, “Where’s your towels? Where’s your towels?”

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: AFC Championship"

It's hard to believe that the NFL season is already coming to an end.  It comes and goes so quickly that sometimes we forget to stop and smell the turf.  This season has been another exciting one  (despite the persistent failures of my Cowboys)  where teams that didn't have high expectations made a playoff run (49ers, Broncos, Bengals) and teams that were expected to contend fell flat on their faces (Eagles, Jets, Colts).  It was also a season in which a 27 year old passing record fell twice and a third QB threw for 5,000 yards for the first time in history. 

Continue reading "NFL Championship Chop-Up"

1. Regular season or post season. It doesn’t matter. The Patriots keep on breaking records. QB Tom Brady became the first player to throw five touchdown passes in one half of playoff football. He also tied a post-season record with six touchdown passes in a game. Brady did this while throwing for 300 yards in a playoff game for the first time. To top it off, Brady executed a well placed 48-yard quick kick to Denver’s 10-yard line.

Continue reading "Pick Six: Divisionals"

I have to say, I was skeptical that these four games could live up to the hype, especially after last weekend. But I’m happy to say I wasn’t disappointed in the slightest. I even gave myself a cushy lead for later poor postseason predictions. But I’ll tell you about that later. Right now it’s time for The Final Drive of the Divisional Round!

Continue reading "The Final Drive: 2012 Divisional Round"

Saturday’s NFL action started with a barn-burner and ended with a merciless slaughter. Sunday’s slate is going to have a hard time following it up, but that won’t stop me from writing another edition of The Opening Drive!

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: 2012 Divisional Sunday"

You have future Hall of Famer QB Drew Brees practically giving you the game scoring TD after TD late in the game.  However, the 49'ers answered back.  They won 36-32 thanks to a Saints defense that played terrible in the last 3:00 of the game.  Despite 5 to's the Saints were in this thing, ready to face the winner of Giants/Green Bay game.  But hold it, Alex Smith throws a couple of passes, and the offense burst a couple of long plays, a stout defense wouldn't have allowed. 

Continue reading "Saints Defense Cakes It"

After six long days of waiting, the NFL playoffs are back today with a great match-up in the NFC and a highly publicized showdown between Jesus and Satan in the AFC. It’s a great day for some football. That means it’s a great day for The Opening Drive!

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: 2012 Divisional Saturday"

Bill Belichick doesn’t do reunions. The Patriots head coach is not the sentimental type. Only if he feels someone can make the team better, then Belichick will welcome a familiar face back.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Divisionals"

Are you exhausted yet? There was TOO MUCH DRAMA! (That’s a lie. There’s never too much.) Both nights of Wildcard weekend ended in tremendous excitement, wrapping up with a dramatic overtime ending that didn’t even warrant explanation of the new rules. I’m still appalled. Let’s just get The Final Drive started.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: 2012 Wildcard Weekend"

If Saturday’s games were any indication, then Sunday’s remaining Wildcard action should be entertaining as hell. Who’s got time for lengthy introductions though? Let’s break down this action!

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: 2012 Wildcard Sunday"

It’s time. Time for the select few to battle out for the most coveted prize in the NFL: the Lombardi Trophy. The playoffs begin today with the Wildcard round. I’m so excited I can’t even finish this introduction! Let’s just get right to these games, shall we?

Continue reading "Joe's 2012 Gameday Preview: Wildcard Saturday"

Well that didn’t take very long. After all of three days, Lovie Smith has found his next offensive coordinator. The big-time hire? Mike “Boat Show” Tice. (I would have also accepted “Ticket Scalper.” I hinted at Tice’s eventual hiring on Tuesday when I addressed the firing of Jerry Angelo and Mike Martz, but I suppose I should break down this “hire,” yes?

Continue reading "Bears promote Tice to OC: Right call?"

It was an interesting and somewhat painful year for Philadelphia Eagles fans, but given that the city’s been on a bit of a roll with sports and the Eagles are still very well setup for the future, fans’ disappointment shouldn’t last too much longer. Heading into the 2011 season, the Eagles signed a number of noteworthy free agents, and seemed primed for a fantastic season, as well as a potential playoff run. In fact, some even went as far as to call the Eagles a “dream team,” and some predicted outlandish things like undefeated seasons and surefire Super Bowl contention. Everything from jersey sales to Philadelphia direct tv action seemed to spike as an always-faithful fan base grew even more excited than usual. Unfortunately, the season didn’t go as planned, and the Eagles wound up missing the playoffs – however, they were still a dangerous team, and here are a few r easons to expect a very good season next year.

Continue reading "Painful year for Philadelphia Eagles fans"

Black Monday came and went, but the coaching news continued on Tuesday with releases in Chicago and major retentions in San Diego and Philly. Were they the right moves? Let’s break ‘em down!

Continue reading "Reid and Turner back for 2012: Really?"

Woof. The news broke quickly today from Halas Hall as the Chicago Bears started their offseason with a major shake-up near the top of the organization with the removal of Jerry Angelo and the “resignation” of Mike Martz. No time to waste in breaking these moves down!

Continue reading "Wha??? Bears move on without Jerry ..."

Black Monday in the NFL is always chock-full of news and storylines and this latest incarnation is no different. Along with the two head coaching vacancies we’re already aware of (Miami and Jacksonville) two more holes opened up on Monday (with more likely on the way). Here’s my take on the day’s news.

Continue reading "Joe's 2012 NFL Black Monday Breakdown"

1. Want more records? On TE Rob Gronkowski’s 16th TD reception, QB Tom Brady surpassed Dan Marino for second on the single season passing yards record. New Orleans’ Drew Brees broke the Marino’s record last week and put it out of Brady’s reach with 389 yards on Sunday. Gronkowski, though, set the record for single season receiving yards by a tight end with 1,327 yards. It was a tug of war between Gronk and the Saints’ Jimmy Graham all afternoon, but a late 22-yard reception by Gronkowski, after New Orleans’ game was over, was the difference. Gronkowski also extended the touchdown receptions by a tight end record, raising the bar to 17. Not to be left out is Bill Belichick with his fifth season with 13 or more wins.

Continue reading "Pick Six: Week 17"

The 2011 NFL regular season ended with a bang with some great finishes and superb drama on Sunday. Records were set by a back-up QB, a team captain was benched for “quitting” and a fat-handed QB lost missed out on the post-season. The Final Drive must begin!

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 17, 2011-12"

I’m not going to spend this Gameday Recap pontificating about what could have been this Bears season. That’s for later. In today’s contest, the Bears held onto the win over the struggling Vikings to get to 8-8 on the year.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011-12 Gameday Recap: Bears 17, Vikings 13"

Let’s get this over with.

 

(7-8) Chicago Bears at

Continue reading "Joe's 2011-12 Gameday Preview: Bears at Vikings"

I’ll bet you thought week 17 in the NFL was meaningless! Well I call shenanigans on that premise entirely, as I’m ready to touch on ELEVEN games going on New Year’s Day. How’s THAT for an Opening Drive?

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 17, 2011-12"

On Monday, New Orleans QB Drew Brees broke the NFL’s single season passing yards record of 5,084 yards, previously held by Miami QB Dan Marino. Already with 5,087 yards, Brees has one more game to go, extending his lead over Marino.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 17"

1. We often hear how good offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia is. On Sunday, we saw exactly why. LT Matt Light was scratched from the game minutes before kickoff. LG Logan Mankins slid over to fill the spot and reserve Donald Thomas stepped in for Mankins. When Mankins went down with a knee injury, rookie Nate Solder flipped from right tackle to left and Marcus Cannon, another rookie, took over on the right side. It wasn’t a smooth transition, as QB Tom Brady was sacked three times in the first half, but Scarnecchia’s half time adjustments led to one sack allowed and 86 of the team’s 119 rushing yards. Patriots fans should be Tebowing in honor of Scarnecchia. Eh…on second thought…maybe not. But coach Scar deserves praise from Patriot Nation.

Continue reading "Pick Six: Week 16"

It was a Christmas Eve of meaningful NFL action as all the remaining playoff spots were nearly filled and draft orders are beginning to finalize. Miss any of the action? No need to worry, because the Final Drive starts right now!

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 16, 2011"

It was closer than it should have been for longer than it should have been, but it ended just as it should have as the Bears lost in Green Bay and ended their hopes for a playoff berth in fitting fashion. Josh McCown mounted a valiant effort, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Aaron Rodgers’ five touchdowns.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Recap: Packers 35, Bears 21"

Five straight defeats have put the Chicago Bears (7-8) out of the playoffs.  The Bears lost to Green Bay 35-21 with a makeshift offense that gained 441 yards, and an improved passing game due to Josh McCown, the backup QB, who played well in defeat.  McCown, showed poise, and a pretty good arm, as he battled with the Bears to a 14-10 half-time score.  Then in the 3rd quarter, Green Bay's vaunted offense went to work and Aaron Rodgers threw for 5 TD passes in the game.  It wasn't that the Bears were so bad.  It was that Green Bay was so good.  The Bears huffed and puffed to stay close to Green Bay.  Then the Pack went into overdrive and before you knew it, the score was 28-10 and game over.

Continue reading "Early Hibernation for Bears"

Merry Christmas! Did you get everything you wanted this morning? Was Santa kind to you? Well you better hold onto that feeling, because it’s about to get ripped away from you on Sunday Night Football as the “somehow still in the playoff hunt” Chicago Bears head to Green Bay to take on the rival Packers. Yikes. Break out the eggnog as you read this preview… it’ll ease your mood going into the game.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Preview: Bears at Packers"

I'd like to see the Chicago Bears give the Green Bay Packers a game tonight.  I don't know if that is going to happen.

There are too many vulnerable spots for Chicago.  One Josh McCown, is making his first start as a Bear at QB.  Two, Kahlil Bell is making a start and he is practically a rookie.  I think what may keep Chicago in the game is that these two teams are arch-rivals.  The Bears will be fired up.  I hope they will surprise some people tonight.  I think Chicago will play The Pack tough to start, but Green Bay's talent will eventually wear the Bears out. It could be 31-10. 

Continue reading "Give Us a Game"

Christmas Eve or not, there’s no way I’d let a schedule of great NFL action slip past my nets! The playoff positioning is settling in, but there’s some unresolved business in the NFC East with two pivotal games on Saturday. There’s plenty to talk about in week 16, so let’s get right to it!

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 16, 2011"

Good morning nation,

Yes, it is only one hour into Christmas eve at this point, but after 4 glasses of honey whiskey on the rocks and putting my dog to sleep, I am ready to ramble.

Continue reading "All I Want for Christmas"

Absence makes the heart grow fonder.  The Bears certainly miss the injured Jay Cutler who is probably out for the remaining two games this season.  The Bears are in the midst of a 4 game slide that could go to 6 to end what was a promising season.  QB Cutler did a lot to to make it promising.  After a slow start, he found his groove and hit receivers open or not.  He threw with greater confidence.  His touchdown pass to Johnny Knox in the corner of the end zone in the San Diego win was a thing of beauty.  He flipped the ball which sailed into Knox, about 35 yards away.  Jay Cutler has a great arm and NFL players and coaches know it. 

Continue reading "Cutler Is That Good"

For pretty much all season, the Patriots had the worst pass defense in the league. If the two-week trend continues, they will have a league worst rush defense to match.

The Denver Broncos repeatedly gashed the D for 252 yards. The week before the Washington Redskins plowed their way to 170 yards. What was a decent run defense for 13 weeks became generous, as if they have the Christmas Sprit.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 16"

A whopping nine wins separate Thursday Night Football’s combatants tonight as the AFC South Champion Houston Texans travel to Lucas Oil Stadium to take on the finally-not-winless Colts. Will this be a game… or a slaughter?

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Thursday Night Preview: Texans at Colts"

1. Behind Tom Brady’s good looks and nice guy personality is a competitor with an incomparable desire to win. After a week of Tim Tebow this and Tim Tebow that, Brady wanted to make a statement. Mission accomplished: 23-34, 320 yards, two TD passes and a rush TD. Tebow is a nice story, but when it comes to the best in the league, Brady expects the list starts with him. Don’t you think Brady envisioned Tebow’s face on the spot Brady spiked the ball after his touchdown run? I think so.

Continue reading "Pick Six: Week 15"

Happy Victory Monday to everyone whom it applies:

It does apply to the Cowboys who handled the Bucs so well that they only needed 3 points in the second half to win by two touchdowns.  But is that slow second half foreshadowing for things to come?  I'll discuss later.

Continue reading "Victory Monday: Yea, I know it's ..."

If you really want to get upset with anyone is the Bears organization, look at the coach and GM.  Coach Smith needs to be more flexible in using his personnel.  The backup for Jay Cutler has been a bust.  "Disappointment" is the PC word that Smith used to desribe the QB play.  Behind closed doors, they are already thinking about next season and giving Nathan Edlerle a shot.  Haning throwing 9 interceptions in 4 games is too much.  And, at least two for for TD's.  If you give 14-21 points to the opposing team and can't score you run a deficit.  It's like the Bears are in debt in the QB slot.  And, they need a healthy Cutler to re-balance the ratio of Td's/INT's.

Continue reading "Get Better Back-Ups"

I’m not sure what else you could have wanted from week 15 in the NFL. Two impressive streaks ended, the “Trap of the Week” proved to be true once again and one win never mattered as much as it did for Indianapolis. (And Candlestick Park was sans light… for a few second before auxiliary lighting come on. Not as much drama.) Many a-loser won on this day. Oddsmakers be damned! Get ready for The Final Drive!

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 15, 2011"

I’m sorry you had to sit through that Bear fans, but you can rest assured the 2011 season is over for the Monsters of the Midway. Their loss to the Seattle Seahawks may only drop them to a 7-7 record, but their unmistakably terrible quarterback play has clearly taken them out of the playoff picture. The offseason isn’t here yet though, so the Gameday Recaps continue!

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Recap: Seahawks 38, Bears 14"

The Chicago Bears have allowed the Seattle Seahawks take a commanding 24-14 lead late in 3rd quarter at Soldier Field.

The Bears are about to be buried for this season.  No Cutlers, No Forte, No Wright, No Johnny Knox, who left the game in an ambulance and was taken to a local hospital.  Unfortunately, Caleb Hanie, who looked so good against the Packers in the NFC game and looked mediocre at best, and simply not-ready-for-prime-time.  He lacks the skills that Cutler has.

Continue reading "Kiss This Season Goobye"

Losers of three straight, the Chicago Bears are trying to get back on the winning horse this afternoon against the rising Seattle Seahawks. Can you believe these two teams are actually still in the playoff hunt? They both need a lot of help to get there, but this game is too significant for either team to lose. Drop one more game… and you likely won’t see January.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Preview: Seahawks at Bears"

About a month ago, I wrote a critical article about Denver quarterback Tim Tebow, declaring results won’t matter as much as his performance to secure the franchise quarterback role with the Broncos. His inability to pass accurately for a full game was the foundation of my argument.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 15"

1. I’ve said before that the Patriots have the best pair of tight ends in the NFL. Let me just add that one of them is the best tight end in the NFL. Rob Gronkowski was a beast, breaking tackles en route to career high in receiving yards in a game (160) and set a new standard for touchdowns in a season by a tight end. He broke the record with his 14th TD grab then extended it when QB Tom Brady quickly tossed a pass over a blitz to Gronk. The Big Gronkowski did the rest, breaking a LB Ryan Kerrigan tackle then racing to the endzone and to the arms of a waiting Pats fan to celebrate.

Continue reading "Pick Six: Week 14"

Thursday Night Football is back to start week 15 off right with the Falcons and… Jaguars? That’s right, the Jaguars, who dropped a season-high 41 points last week, albeit against the lowly Buccaneers. Atlanta is always a tough out at the Georgia Dome behind Matt Ryan, who just tossed four touchdowns in their comeback win over the Panthers.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Thursday Night Preview: ..."

Going Forward

I think there is a general consensus in the football world that the Dallas Cowboys are in a heap of trouble.  For two consecutive weeks the 'Boys have had an opportunity to distance themselves away from the NFC East pack after taking the division lead during a four game win streak.  But for the last two weeks the Cowboys have gotten out coached and out hustled by the Arizona Cardinals, and then they let the New York Giants ring the door bell, break into their house, and steal their division.  To make matters worse, of the Cowboys 6 losses they had ample opportunity to win every game except the "Imma piss on you like R. Kelly"  Eagles game (I'll have to tell you about that one day).  But as a famous former Cowboys coach once said, "You are who you are," and these are the Cowboys.  They always have the talent compete and with Tony Romo at quarterback, but sometimes they find the most perplexing ways to lose games

Continue reading "Going Forward: The Playoffs Begin ..."

Taking the Browns to the Toilet Bowl...

Really? Really, Cleveland? You came back to the NFL, and you still haven't produced a professional football team! As a Browns' fan, it's embarrassing, truly embarrassing.

Continue reading "Cleveland Browns"

Heart attacks were felt across the nation on Sunday (especially by me), leading to plenty of hospitalizations. While you’re incapacitated, why not get the full scoop on week 14’s heart-stopping action?

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 14, 2011"

After a scoreless first half, I bet fans were just aching for this game to end in regulation. For Bronco fans, it was setting up perfectly for another installment of “Tebow Time.” Fortunately, the Bears had other ideas, forcing two turnovers from Timmy Teebs and shutting the Broncos down.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Recap: Broncos 13, Bears 10"

Honestly, you had to see this game to believe it.  The Bears radio announcer sounded like a relative had died, when announcing this one.  You have to laugh, at the stupidity of the Bears schemes, and the execution of plays in the final closing minutes of the 4th quarter and in OT, to let The Tebow mysitque grow.  I thought the Bears would win this game, but when they had Hanie hand off for 8 consecutive plays in their last two possessions, I knew this team was in trouble.

Continue reading "Bears Squander Lead, Fall in OT, 13-10."

Chicago Bears Defense had the Broncos pinned in a 3rd down and 15 and Tim Tebow picked up 16 yards for the first down, early in the second quarter in a 0-0 game at Mile High Stadium.  At least it

Continue reading "Tebow On the Run"

With two straight losses with Caleb Hanie at the helm, the Chicago Bears find themselves in an unenviable position on Sunday, traveling to Denver to meet the best (and most run into the ground) story in the NFL: Tim Tebow. After taking over the reins for John Fox’s offense, the Broncos are 6-1 and lead the AFC West after starting the year 1-4. Will there be more magic in Denver or can Urlacher and the Bears keep Timmy in check? It’s time to break this one down!

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Preview: Bears at Broncos"

After the Big Ben-flavored drama on Thursday night, week 14 in the NFL season keeps on trucking in Sunday’s slate of games. While some will take a first glance at most of the games and shrug them off as meaningless, there are some hidden contests that could be much better than fans may expect. Plenty of options for “Trap of the Week.”

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 14, 2011"

What should had been a blowout of a clearly inferior team became an embarrassing one score win over the Indianapolis Colts as the defense gave up 21 points in the fourth quarter.

Two of those scores came at the expense of CB Devin McCourty. Colts RB Donald Brown swatted McCourty away with a stiff-arm en route to a 5-yard TD run. Less than eight minutes later, WR Pierre Garcon got behind McCourty and caught a 12-yard TD over McCourty’s head. McCourty lunged to no avail to stop the completion, beaten so badly that he couldn’t even look back to find the ball.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 14"

I'm getting worked up here, waiting for this darn Bear-Broncos game.  I don't know.  The Bears practically had a playoff berth wrapped up and then two injuries to Jay Cutler and Matt Forte have derailed the Bears run to post-seasn.  But, its not over till it's over.  I'd like to see The Bears surprise the experts and pickers and the League, and pull off the upset.  Can you imagine, beating Tim Tebow an upset?  Here is a guy who several weeks ago, completed 2 or 3 passes in a game, and the Broncos still won.  Now, if the Bears D is worth anything, if Urlacher and Co. have a pulse, they willl kick some serious butt, I don't care what the altitude is.  Urlacher and Hanie played in the Rockies, or the Mountain time zone, (I don't care if there are Mountains out there).  They were close to the Mountains.  Christmas wish: let Hanie make some plays.  Smart plays.

Continue reading "Win One For Larry Morris"

HAHAHAHAHAHA. I’m sorry, did you want analysis of this latest edition of Thursday Night Football? …Really? Okay, here it goes.

NFL Network is the place for an AFC North division match-up that will serve as a measuring stick for both teams involved. We can see how serious Pittsburgh really is about winning their division by how hard they play against a supposed soft opponent. Cleveland can gauge itself versus the rest of their Northern brethren by mounting a valiant effort tonight.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Thursday Night Preview: ..."

Just read a blog saying that Lance Briggs would be "freakin" pissed" if the Bears lost the Denver and Tebow-mania.

I don't know if that is so smart to give Broncos any quotes or fodder now.  After all, the Bears have to fly in and play way over sea level, as in Rocky Mountain high.  In Chicago, the land is flat as a pancake.  This is going to be a big climate change.  Like going to 3 time zones.  So, keep the lips buttoned down and take the anger out on the field.  It is time to put up or shut up.  The NFL can be about playing through adversity.  This is an adverse situation.  You have to play through it.  The question is how can the Bears be competitive without Cutler or Forte on offense?  I'll say this, good teams find ways to win.  Let's see if the Bears are a good team.

Continue reading "Just Hit Hard and Play"

There was a time when John Elway, the great QB for the Denver Broncos could make a Bears fan feel anxious about coming into Denver.  Now, a rather wild hot streak with Tim Tebow calling the signals, has Denver tied atop the AFC West, and in playoff consideration.  Just a few weeks ago, the Bears were sitting pretty after a win that got them to 7-3 for the year.  But a broken thumb to QB Jay Cutler and a sprained knee to starting back Matt Forte, has sidelined both players, Cutler most likely out for the season. 

Continue reading "Bears vs. Denver and Tebow"

Week 13 in the NFL saw a variety of last second comebacks, including more “Jebus and Teebs” magic and a scare for the undefeated champs. Need to know more? Welcome to The Final Drive.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 13, 2011"

1. The Gillette Stadium crowd thought they witnessed a Patriot claim another record, but the celebration was short lived. TE Rob Gronkowski scored three touchdowns, tying the record for touchdown receptions by a tight end in a season with 13. Gronk’s third TD was actually was a lateral though. History will have to wait at least a week for Gronkowski, but he did score his first rushing touchdown.

Continue reading "Pick Six: Week 13"

Boy, it's come to this.  Brett Favre would be willing to listen to an offer from the Bears.  What is this football world coming to?

I say let Hanie sink or swm.  He lead a good drive that Roy Williams snuffed out when he didn't hold onto the ball, which was then intecepted at the 1 yard line.  That wasn't Hanie's fault.  People are reporting that he threw 3 interceptions.  He gets the blame for a receiver's miscue. He threw 2 ill-timed passes.  I say give Hanie a shot vs. Denver.  If he doesn't have a good game, then sign someone else.  But, don't look to Favre to save the Bears.  He's a Bears killer.  I don't think it is a good idea.  If Johnny Unitas were in Favre's situation, I'd say, take a look.  He used to kill the Bears too.  That guy could thorw the ball.  Favre could easlily throw two intercepts in a Lance Briggs moment.

Continue reading "Don't Sign Favre, Jerry"

The Chicago Bears lost a game and perhaps their start running back, Matt Forte, to a knee injury that took him out most of the game.  Caleb Hanie, had a good drive going, late in the game, and Roy Williams couldn't control the ball at the goalline, where a Chief's defender caught it before the ball hit the ground.  Heck, the Chiefs scored a TD on a desperate hail-mary pass that went through Brian Urlacher's hands before the first half-ended. 

Continue reading "Bad Loss To Chiefs, 10-3, Forte Hurt"

Well it was a team effort today. It took all the Bears collectively failing in order to lose this in the fashion they did to Tyler Palko. The blame starts with the offensive play-calling, then shifts to the crappy play Caleb Hanie, veers towards horrible injuries and finishes with a pathetic showing from the offensive line. As much as you don’t need to be reminded, here’s the analysis of today’s clusterf*ck.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Recap: Chiefs 10, Bears 3"

With their fourth loss in the rearview mirror, the Caleb Hanie-led Chicago Bears welcome the deceptively decent Kansas City Chiefs to Soldier Field. Oh yeah, and Kyle Orton might show up sometime today as well. Casual NFL fans may look at this game as an easy win, but it could be very, very ugly. My breakdown illustrates why.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Preview: Chiefs at Bears"

The weeks are rushing by in the NFL with the playoff picture beginning to take shape. Two 11-game streaks could push their way to 12 and an NFC contender tries to get by without one of their biggest stars.

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 13, 2011"

It was a convincing win over the Philadelphia Eagles that came surprisingly easier than expected.

Hope you enjoy re-runs for the rest of the season.

The combined record of the remaining opponents is 18-37. A third of those wins belong to the streaking Denver Broncos that won their last four games without a quarterback.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 13"

1. It took until his fourth season, but CB Antwaun Molden had his first career interception on a deep pass intended for WR DeSean Jackson.

2. A round of applause to WR Tiquan Underwood for his impeccable Chad Ochocinco impersonation. He was on the field for two plays, was thrown to deep on one, dropped a probable touchdown, and then exited stage left.

Continue reading "Pick 6: Week 12"

Forget about the rest of your work week, Thursday Night Football is on tonight! The NFL Network has a pretty interesting contest for us tonight, as the imploding “Dream Team” travels northwest to far off Seattle to take on a young and “always tough at home” Seahawks squad. Who’s ready for the death of a dream?

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Thursday Night Preview: ..."

Another Monday night means another edition of The Final Drive! I’m going to skip right past the Thanksgiving Day games as we all saw what happened. (Right?) Lots going on in week 12, including another QB injury in Houston and more magic from Jebus and Teebs.

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 12, 2011"

It starts now.  If the season ended today, the Bears would be a Wild Card and get into the playoffs.  Now, inorder for that hold up, the Bears need to win 3 games.  I think they can.  I see Hanie improving.  If he doesn't, he's out.  But their defense and special teams are very good.  I think they will squeeze in and make it.  What they will do once they get there is open to debate and it's too early to tell. 

Continue reading "Bear Playoff Push"

The score of this game 25-20, is misleading.  The Bears were down 25-13 when they scored their last TD.  It is hard to imagine a player who hasn't played in a game all season, to come out and play well.  Caleb Hanie had the jitters early on in the game, and eventually settled down and led the team.  He threw three interceptions and two TD's.  The INT's defintely hurt the Bears.  One was nearly returned for a TD.  I think next week he will look better.  And, in two weeks, you will see noticeable improvement.  It's just that Hanie is learning his new role as the Bears try to clinch a playoff berth.  Yeah, it's learning On The Job.

Continue reading "Bears Fall To Raiders, 25-20"

As I assumed, today’s loss to the Raiders was a slow, painful death. Chicago hung around after several costly turnovers, but couldn’t mount the offense to overcome Sebastian Janikowski’s six field goals and a late touchdown from Michael Bush, halting their five game win streak. As much as I’d prefer not to, let’s get to the breakdown.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Recap: Raiders 25, Bears 20"

It had to come sometime. After a week of waiting, we finally have to watch what the Bears 2011 regular season looks like without Jay Cutler. Chicago travels to the Black Hole today, taking on the Raiders in a hostile environment, led by fourth year back-up Caleb Hanie.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Preview: Bears at Raiders"

I hope you got your fill of exciting and meaningful football on Thanksgiving, because there is a slew of pure crap on the early NFL schedule for week 12. I’ll still be entertained no matter what I’m watching, but you might want to sleep in a bit if you just want to watch good teams. It’s time to kick-off the Opening Drive!

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 12, 2011"

How does Kyle Arrington do it?

Have you ever watched Arrington closely? He looks like an average cornerback. Nothing about him stands out. He stands only 5-10. His arms look ripped, but you wouldn’t say he’s above-average athletically. He doesn’t excel in press coverage. Heck, it doesn’t look like Arrington excels at any particular coverage skill.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 12"

The Pats enter this sunday's matchup with Philadelphia at 7-3, after opening up a relatively-commanding two-game lead on the Jets and Buffalo following monday night's dismantling of the Cassel-less Chiefs. The victory was a definitive 34-3, but there are those who still worry about the flow of the offense, specifically Tom Brady's sporatic accuracy and questionable decision making.

Continue reading "Brady Off So Far"

It happens every year. Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, football and food comas. Unfortunately, you’ll want to pay attention to all three games today as they all feature teams with something to prove. It’s time for a breakdown of the holiday’s action!

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Thanksgiving Day Preview"

After a few days of attempting to drown myself in a (surprisingly deep) pool of my own tears, I figured it was time to comment on the impending thumb surgery of Jay Cutler and what it means for the Bears in 2011.

Continue reading "Picking up the pieces: Where do the ..."

1. He’s gone from cancer diagnosis, to enduring chemotherapy, to full remission, and activation from the physically unable to perform list. On Monday night, Marcus Cannon took another step in his recovery when he played his first snaps against Kansas City. Cannon entered the game in the fourth quarter and played right tackle. Opposite Cannon was Nate Solder, playing left tackle in place of Matt Light, who was injured earlier in the game. Might this be a glimpse of the future Patriots O-line?

Continue reading "Pick Six: Week 11"

The intrigue around Jay Cutler's broken thumb keeps building.  Kyle Orton, the ex-Bear QB was released by the Denver Broncos today and it was felt that Orton pushed to be released once it became apparent that Cutler would be out.  Now, the questions arise:  Will the Bears pick him up?  If they do, will he start or back-up Hanie?  Is Orton a good fit for the current Bears offense?  It would appear that Hanie doesn't have the arm that Orton has, but he has improvisational ability to move the pocket, much like Cutler did.  This would be more in liine with parts of the Martz offensive scheme.  If Hanie moves around, that gives time for the Bears receivers to get open.  Kyle Orton is a more conventional pocket QB.  This would put additional pressure on the patched quilt line up front.  Guys have been injured at the rate of a toll both off the Dan Ryan.

Continue reading "Orton to Chicago?"

There are plenty of close games to discuss from the week 11 slate, some with interesting consequences for the division races involved. The Final Drive. It’s on.

(7-3) Detroit Lions 49

Continue reading "The Final Drive: Week 11, 2011"

Jay Cutler's out with a broken thumb.  And, backup QB Caleb Hanie is in as starter.  Cutler, with protection, showed how good he is.  What an arm!  His throw to Knox in the corner of the end-zone was a great throw, something Bears fans haven't seen in a long time.  Let's hope the injury isn't as serious as speculated. 

Continue reading "Cutler's Injury"

Bears lose Jay Cutler due to a broken right thumb.  Boy, this is bad news for the Bears who are among the hoittest teams in the league.  Things were going so right for this team.  The line was giving protection to a QB who showed he has a great arm.  He was quieting his critics with his athletic play.  Now, he may be out for the season.  Who steps up?  Caleb Hanie, the QB who almost pulled off an amazing comeback vs. the Packers in the NFL title game.

Continue reading "Hanie Gets the Call"

Tied at 3-3 midway through the second quarter, this game tried to disguise itself as a defensive struggle as the Bears stumbled over themselves on several drives. But then the scoring came in bunches as the Chicago Bears held off the San Diego Chargers on Sunday afternoon, increasing their winning streak to five games despite numerous comeback attempts.

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Recap: Bears 31, Chargers 20"

The Chicago Bears did enough things well to win their matchup against the Chargers, 31-20.  They made enough big plays in the second half to come through against a stalwart effort by San Diego.  The Bears forced 3 turnovers, 1 forced fumble and two interceptions, and Jay Cutler threw for 2 TD's.  Perhaps most importantly, the Bears held the ball for 14+ minutes in the fourth quarter to take the ball out of QB Philip Rivers hands.  When he did have it, and threw for two interceptions, one in the end zone. 

Continue reading "Bears Hold off San Diego, 31-20."

Riding high with four straight wins, the Chicago Bears welcome in the San Diego Chargers, who are sweeping the floors of the AFC West thanks to four straight losses. Can the Bears force more Philip Rivers turnovers in front of their home crowd today? Or will the Chargers begin their annual late-season winning streak? It’s time for another Gameday Preview!

Continue reading "Joe's 2011 Gameday Preview: Chargers at Bears"

After the (eventually) thrilling start on Thursday night, week 11 continues with a number of exciting games to keep your eye on this weekend, including several divisional match-ups with playoff implications. What else do you need? Time to start The Opening Drive!

Continue reading "The Opening Drive: Week 11, 2011"

The vision is almost a reality. It didn’t work the first time, but the personnel is better now.

For the sixth time this season the Patriots scored at least 30 points. They rolled up 389 yards of total offense. In 9 of 10 games the Pats gained more than 370 yards of offense. New England is second-rated offense in the NFL and third in points scored.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 11"

Say what you want abut Tim Tebow.  He can't pass the ball.  He looks inept.  He can't move a team.  Well, his team was on the 5 yard line and he moved them down the field 95 yards on the final drive with 1 or 2 completed passes and some pretty runs and in the end, its 17-13 Broncos.  The Jets played ugly and lost ugly.  They fell victim to Tebow ball.  Lost to a guy who can't, for now, throw the ball with accuracy.  And, in the last play, on a blitz, Tebow skirts to the left side and runs, almost untouched to the end-zone.  The Jets are the jokes here. 

Continue reading "Tebow-time Clocks Jets, 17-13"