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A Step in the Right Direction by Lake Lewis
As a sports journalist I have had to take on the -not said oath- of not showing bias towards or leading on whom my favorite teams are. Well if you have followed my radio show you will know that I am a Nittany Lion and Hoya (My Alma Mater’s) and a huge Washington Redskin fan (my hometown is DC). Today I awoke to the sobering news of the untimely and unfortunate passing of Cincinnati Bengal Chris Henry. The story surrounding his death is yet again another bad situation turned public. The young man should be remembered as a testament that you can not judge a book by its cover. I have one question regarding his death? WHY IS THE MEDIA becoming the Supreme Court in our country? For all intensive purposes Chris Henry had turned his life around and was becoming a sound man. The media never focused on that aspect of his life until he was gone. This seems so eerily similar to the passing of the late Sean Taylor of the Washington Redskins. He was another victim of bad media scrutiny that would not uncover his better side until he was murdered. Can we start to tell the stories of good faith and great deeds by athletes instead of tearing them down for any mistakes that are made? Wake up my media brethren, its time to look at ourselves in the mirror.
The other news story that broke today in the DC area was that Vinnie Cerrato had resigned as the Executive Vice President of Football Operations for the Washington Redskins. In other words, the de facto General Manager without General Manager credentials would not hold my beloved Redskins hostage any longer. Sure Cerrato had drafted such players as TE Chris Cooley, S Sean Taylor, QB Jason Campbell and last years seemingly talented TE Fred Davis, and WR Devon Thomas and this year’s rookie sensation and future all-pro LB/DE Brian Orakpo. But, he also helped orchestrait the acquisitions of high priced free agent busts such as WR Brandon Lloyd, S Adam Archuleta, DE Jason Taylor (trade with the Dolphins), and here is a name from the past RB Trung Canidate (trade with Rams). He also had a pension for losing valuable draft picks and Redskins players such as S Ryan Clark (Pittsburgh), and LB Antonio Pierce (Giants). There is another player that tells the story of how dysfunctional Cerrato’s regime was for me. Jeremy Bridges who right now is playing really good football for the Arizona Cardinals at left tackle was a player who the Redskins decided to cut as one of their final pre-season moves. If you have watched the Redskins over the past few years it is well documented that their offensive line albeit individually talented, has been on the decline with season ending injuries happening yearly. Pro Bowlers Chris Samuels and Randy Thomas have had their seasons cut short the past two seasons so releasing an adequate replacement made no sense to me when Cerrato kept former first round bust Mike Williams who had been out of football for 4 years.
Placing all of the blame on Cerratto would be irresponsible of me so the Redskins Owner Daniel Snyder needs to eat some crow as well. He has resisted for whatever reasons the idea of running this once proud franchise the way it was built by having an owner who is lavish and will spend money (Jack Kent Cook), a competent GM (Bobby Betherd and Charlie Casserly), and a coach whom patience would be needed to implement their own system (Joe Gibbs). The hiring of Bruce Allen today is a great move for the Redskins in that it signals change that is more the blue print for all of the NFL’s successful franchises. They all have a “real” GM who can take the pressure off of the head coach and can draft with a vision of the future. Not a quick fix that was always the approach of Cerrato.
Already the questions being asked are;
Is Bruce Allen going to bring in current ESPN Monday Night Football Analyst and former Super Bowl winning coach John Gruden?
Is he going to possibly look at former Bronco mastermind Mike Shanahan?
Or, maybe bring in a young gem in the making?
What is he going to do with current lame duck coach Jim Zorn?
Will he keep fan-boy punching bag quarterback Jason Campbell?
Will he get rid of high priced running back Clinton Portis?
Can Sherman Lewis keep his job and continue to draft up the offensive playbook?
Can Allen himself prove that he can run an organization because he has some critics who are quick to admonish that he won with Tony Dungy’s players in Tampa?
To me he could bring in Santa Clause – Uh Oh, I have not even started Christmas shopping – to coach and play and to me it would not matter at this point because for once WE are having a reasonable conversation about the future moves of the Redskins with a view of the future in sight.
Speaking of the future, I know what will be must see TV! That would be Monday night when John Gruden and Monday Night Football come to town for the Redskins/Giants game. Actually they come in on Friday for pre-game production so can you believe what the air will feel like when Gruden has to interview Jim Zorn? Wow can you say chilly. Maybe my former ESPN Radio colleague Mike Tirico or Jaws Jaworski will at some point in the game ask Gruden “so what do you think of your team?” I know what I think!
HALE TO MY THE REDSKINS.
Lake Lewis is the President and CEO of the Sports Journey Broadcast Network. He was a host on ESPN Radio 1060 Orlando, ESPN Radio 1080 Melbourne and the Drive Time host ESPN Radio 1240 Maryland and WMET 1160 in Washington DC
Black Monday will be coming soon for NFL head coaches on the Hot Seat by Lloyd Vance
On the “Hot Seat” NFL head coaches like Carolina’s John Fox better not pick up the phone on “Black Monday”
Mark the date of Monday January 4th down on your calendars. That date happens to be “Black Monday” around the NFL as many teams will probably pull the plug on their embattled head coaches, front office types, and assistant coaches on the Monday after Week 17.
I am not sure if the number of new coaches this offseason will reach the 11 new head coaches for the 2009 season, but I am estimating that there could be at least five head coaching changes on the way. Of course one change will probably be for the Buffalo Bills who currently have “interim” head coach Perry Fewell running the team after firing Dick Jauron in November.
Head Coaches on the Hot Seat include:
Jim Zorn, Washington Redskins – The former Seattle Seahawks quarterback has been stoic throughout the 2009 season even though he has been basically “Dead Man Walking” for the majority of it. Zorn was stripped of his play-calling duties in October – given to veteran NFL assistant coach Sherman Lewis – and it was apparent from that point on that petulant owner Daniel Snyder would soon be looking in a new direction. Though the Redskins (4-9 through 13 games this season) have played tougher in November and December, they still will be remembered for making winners out of formerly winless 2009 teams the Kansas City Chiefs, Carolina Panthers, and Detroit Lions. Zorn’s overall head coaching record stands at 12-17 and the Redskins since starting 6-2 in 2008 have a record of 6-15 in their last 21 games. Expect Snyder, who is known for spending money on his team — signed prize free agent DT Albert Haynesworth to 7 year, $100 Million Contract w/ $41 Million guarantee and CB DeAngelo Hall to a six year, $55 million deal ($23 million guaranteed) – to go after a big name former head coach (see Mike Shanahan, Bill Cowher, or someone else) to come in and run his team. I wonder if Snyder does bring in a new “football man” to run things, what will happened with his loyal minion Vinny Cerato.
Lovie Smith, Chicago Bears — Now that the Bears have their franchise quarterback (Jay Cutler), everything was supposed to be perfect in 2009…wrong. Another underachieving season (record of 5-8 through 13 games) and Super Bowl XLI seems like a distant memory. The only thing that could keep Smith around is that he is due around $11M dollars next year. If Smith is allowed to return by GM Jerry Angelo, then some big changes are coming to his coaching staff.
Eric Mangini, Cleveland Browns – Last week’s big win over the Steelers aside, “Man-genius” has been a disaster in his first season in Cleveland. From players complaining about “Voluntarily” having to take a bus ride to his summer camp to some veterans overall disinterest, what could go wrong has gone wrong for two-win 2009 Browns. To make matters worse, the Browns are looking for a new GM/football czar to replace Mangini’s former handpicked GM George Kokonis.
Gary Kubiak, Houston Texans – At a record of (6-7) with only 3 games left, it is looking more likely that the Texans are headed for their 3rd straight (8-8) finish. After 4 years in Houston, Kubiak was expected to deliver a playoff team to the former 2002 expansion franchise. Unfortunately the Texans have been inconsistent once again and several players on their roster have missed long stretches of time with injuries. With GM Rick Smith looking to be around for another year given the young talent that he has assembled, expect Kubiak to be the “Fall Guy” in Houston.
John Fox, Carolina Panthers – After a great year in 2008, you knew 2009 would be a tough one for the Panthers – Carolina in 15 years in the league has never posted back-to-back winning seasons. The Panthers are (5-8) with 3 games to go and their roster looks like a MASH unit. Fox will need to answer to owner Jerry Richardson about what has gone wrong with quarterback Jake Delhomme and a defense that is not producing big plays any longer. After eight seasons in Charlotte and the team’s Super Bowl appearance long gone (2003), expect the Panthers to move along without Fox. Did I also mention that former Steelers’ Super Bowl winning head coach Bill Cowher already has established roots in the Carolina area?
Raheem Morris, Tampa Bay Buccaneers – It has only been one year for one of the NFL’s youngest head coaches (33), but some people around the league are already saying that Morris maybe in over his head. Morris fired his former offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski before the 2009 season even started and recently he stripped defensive coordinator Jim Bates of his role, so there is no one else to blame for the Bucs problems. The Bucs currently have a record of (1-12) and they could possibly not win a game in their remaining 3 games (@SEA, @NO, and ATL). With the Glazer family looking to get back to the success of the Tony Dungy era, they could be looking in a new direction after the season.
Other head coaches potentially on the Hot Seat: Dallas Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips (Not known for being the sternest coach with players. And owner Jerry Jones wants to not only make the playoffs, but he also wants to “win” a playoff game for the time since ’96); Oakland Raiders head coach Tom Cable (Off the field troubles and he works for Al Davis…enough said); and Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio (It could be a playoff win or bust after 7 years in Jacksonville);
NFL Head Coaching Candidates
Mike Shanahan — former two-time Super Bowl winner with Denver Broncos
Bill Cowher — Current CBS Analyst and former Steelers’ Super Bowl XL winner
Brian Billick — Current FOX Analyst former Baltimore Ravens Super Bowl winner
Jon Gruden — Current ESPN analyst (signed an extension) and former Bucs’ Super Bowl winner
Marty Schottenheimer — Former head coach in Cleveland, Kansas City, Washington, and San Diego
Jim Haslett –former Saints head coach and UFL head coach
Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer
New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams
Miami Dolphins DB’s Coach Todd Bowles
Minnesota Vikings Defensive Coordinator Leslie Frazier
Washington Redskins Secondary Coach Jerry Gray
Jets Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer
Baltimore Ravens Defensive Coordinator Hue Jackson
St. Louis Rams offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur
Montreal Alouettes (CFL) head coach Marc Trestman
Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett
Panthers Asst. head coach and RB’s coach Jim Skipper (former head coach of the SF Demon – XFL)
Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Mike Nolan
Mike Martz — Former Rams head coach and NFL Network Analyst
UFL Coaches: Jim Fassel (won UFL’s 1st championship), Dennis Green, and Ted Cotrell
Minnesota Vikings RB’s Coach Eric Bienemy
Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey
New Orleans Saints offensive coordinator Pete Charmichael
Arizona Cardinals assistant head coach/offensive line coach Russ Grimm
Miami Dolphins WR’s Coach Karl Dorrell
San Diego Chargers defensive coordinator Ron Rivera
San Diego Chargers Assistant head coach Rob Chudzinski
Mike Heimerdinger, Titans offensive coordinator
USC head coach Pete Carroll
New Mexico State head coach DeWayne Walker
Iowa head coach Kirk Firentz – former Belichick disciple
Lloyd Vance is a Sr. NFL Writer for Taking It to the House and an award -winning member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA)
2009 NFL Season – First Half NFL Awards by Lloyd Vance
Buffalo Bills rookie safety Jairus Byrd (#31) has been selected the Defensive Rookie of the First Half for the 2009 NFL Season
I always like to hand out the hardware after each quarter of the NFL season. However the players and teams receiving their just due better not forget that there are 8 more games to be played this season.
Head Coach of the first half: Indianapolis Colts head coach Jim Caldwell – Became the first rookie head coach since Potsy Clark in 1931 (Portsmouth Spartans started 8-0) to start the season 7-0. Caldwell has done a great job keeping a veteran group of players on track despite numerous injuries. In speaking of his team’s 7-0 start and tying Clark’s record Caldwell said, “They’re not handing out anything for whatever record that is, we’ve got a lot of work ahead of us.” You gotta love that type of attitude. Honorable Mention: Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress, Denver Broncos head coach Josh McDaniels, and New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton
Offensive Player of the first half: Indianapolis Colts QB Peyton Manning – Robo-quarterback (187-263, 2227 yards – 2nd in NFL, 15 TDs, 4 INTs and a 109.3 rating) has his team poised for their Week 10 marquee match-up with the New England Patriots. The Colts have a record of 7-0 and have won a franchise record 16 straight games going back to 2008. The three-time MVP (may soon be four) has thrown for over 300 yards in all but one of the Colts’ seven wins and has made household names of obscure receivers Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie. With 19 passing yards in Week 9 against the Houston Texans, Manning will become the first player in NFL history with 40,000 passing yards in one decade Honorable Mention: Saints QB Drew Brees, Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger and Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew.
Defensive Player of the first half: New Orleans Saints Safety Darren Sharper – What an incredible season for this recently turned 34-year old former free agent pick-up from the Vikings. The Saints are undefeated (7-0) and it has been their defense that has led the way – first in the NFL with 6 turnovers returned for touchdowns. Sharper looks like he is sure to be selected to his fifth Pro Bowl as he currently boasts stats of 26 TKLS, 0.5 sacks, 7 INTs (3 for TDs), and 10 passes defensed. Honorable Mention: Vikings DE Jared Allen, Eagles CB Asante Samuels, and Colts DE Dwight Freeney
Breakout Player of the first half: Cowboys WR Miles Austin — One of the 2009 NFL season’s best stories, Austin coming from tiny Monmouth (NJ) College has risen from a special teamer to finally getting his shot this season. In a Week 6 win over the Chiefs, Austin produced 10 catches for a franchise record 250 yards and 2 TDs (both 50-yard plus bombs) while saving the Cowboys’ hides with a 60-yard tackle-breaking game-winning TD reception in overtime. Austin then proved the Chiefs’ game was no fluke in a Week 7 win over the Atlanta Falcons (team-best six catches for 171 yards and 2 TDs). Out of nowhere Austin and his eye-popping numbers (26 catches for 563 yards, 21.7 ypc average and 6 TDs) have moved former starter Patrick Crayton to the bench. And almost everyone watching the Cowboys would agree that Austin and not disgruntled WR Roy Williams is Romo’s number #1 passing-catching option. Honorable Mention: Eagles WR DeSean Jackson, Niners TE Vernon Davis, Texans RB Ryan Moats, Eagles TE Brent Celek, and Broncos DE Elvis Dumervil.
Offensive Rookie of the first half: Minnesota Vikings WR/KR Percy Harvin – An explosive player that can beat you a variety of ways (Wildcat QB, Kickoff Returns, in the slot, and out wide). Harvin is one of the main reasons for veteran quarterback Brett Favre’s rebirth. Though not the biggest guy on the field (5’10, 190), this former Gator has game-breaking skills that have made Vikings head coach Brad Childress extremely excited. Harvin’s incredible numbers truly do show his versatility (28 catches for 369 yards, 13.2 ypc, and 3 TDs; 8 rushes for 39 yards; and 28 kickoff returns for 860 yards, 30.7 ypr, and 2 TDs including a magical 101 yards return for a touchdown against the Ravens in Week 6). Honorable Mention: Denver Broncos RB Knowshon Moreno, Philadelphia Eagles WR Jeremy Maclin, Baltimore Ravens OT Michael Oher and Chicago Bears WR Johnny Knox
Defensive Rookie of the first half: Buffalo Bills Safety Jairus Byrd – This former second-rounder from Oregon has been a regular starter at free safety and has made a huge impact on one of the NFL’s most underrated defenses. In Week 8, the October Rookie of the Month picked off two more passes against the Houston Texans tying an NFL record with three straight games of at least two interceptions (first rookie). Byrd now has 7 INTs in eight games (tied for NFL lead) and is inching closer to Carrier’s rookie record of 10 picks. Honorable Mention: Houston Texans LB Brian Cushing, Detroit Lions S Louis Delmas, Green Bay Packers LB Clay Matthews and St. Louis Rams LB Jim Laurinatis.
Comeback Player of the first half: Denver Broncos Safety Brian Dawkins – I wonder if the Eagles front office wants to rethink their contract negotiation strategy with Dawkins from this past offseason. The Broncos, youthful head coach Josh McDaniels, and new defensive coordinator Mike Nolan all thought that the 14-year veteran had more left in the tank and they were right. Dawkins (36) has been more than rewarded the Broncos for their faith as they have gotten off to an AFC West leading 6-1 start and the 7-time Pro Bowl player has been the quarterback of the Broncos’ defense (lead the NFL with 266.7 yards allowed per game). Dawk’s stats thus far are 46 tackles, 7 passes defensed, and 2 fumble recoveries. Honorable Mention: Minnesota Vikings QB Brett Favre, Philadelphia Eagles MLB Will Witherspoon, Tampa Bay Buccaneers TE Kellen Winslow and Minnesota Vikings WR Sidney Rice.
Team of the first half: New Orleans Saints – The NFC’s lone unbeaten team (7-0), the Saints are putting up record numbers offensively. Sean Payton’s team has scored an NFL-best 36 touchdowns — tied for the 3rd most through the first seven games in league history – and they don’t look they are going to slowdown anytime soon. While averaging an amazing NFL leading 39 points and 428.7 yards per game, quarterback Drew Brees is on pace for another 4500-yard plus season and 11 different Saints players have scored at least one rushing or receiving touchdown this season (led by WR Marques Colston – 6 TDs). The Saints also have had success running the football too as they lead the NFC with an average 153.3 rush yards per game. On defense, new coordinator Gregg Williams has brought some swagger to a unit that struggled allowing big plays in the past and their numbers show it (154 points allowed, 17 sacks and a +7 in turnover ratio). Honorable Mention: Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos, and Minnesota Vikings
Most Disappointing Player of the first half: Dallas Cowboys WR Roy Williams – It has been one year since the Cowboys traded for the former Lions star and he has not lived up to expectations, to say the least. Since joining the Cowboys 16 games ago, Williams’ numbers are nowhere near what was expected of him when the Cowboys gave up a number one draft pick for him (33 receptions, 447 yards, three touchdowns). Williams only has 14 catches for 249 yards and 2 TDs this season and I don’t want to hear any excuses about his ribs. Clearly breakout player Miles Austin has passed him as the Cowboys go-to receiver and the former University of Texas star better work on regaining the confidence of QB Tony Romo and dropping less passes (just 14 catches on 35 targets — 40% catch rate). The delusional Williams said of him being the Cowboys No. 1 receiver, “It’s just not even close. It’s not even funny. Not even close. I’m the number one receiver. But things are just going number two’s way”. Dishonorable Mention: Oakland Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell, Cleveland Browns QB Derek Anderson, and Tennessee Titans QB Kerry Collins
Most Disappointing Team of the first half: Washington Redskins – The NFL’s most dysfunctional team becomes a greater laughingstock weekly. The Redskins (2-5) have lost to formerly winless teams the Kansas City Chiefs (1-6), Carolina Panthers (3-4), and Detroit Lions (1-6). Their offense is only averaging 13.7 points per game this season and hasn’t scored more than 17 in any game despite playing facing six consecutive winless opponents (first team in NFL history). They are 4-11 in their last 15 games and owner Daniel Snyder inserted offensive consultant Sherman Lewis – hasn’t coached in the NFL in over 5 years) to call the plays over dead-man-walking head coach Jim Zorn. You have to feel for a defensive group that has allowed only 283.4 yards per game to rank 2nd in the NFC, but this team is in need of a house cleaning at the end of the season. Stay tuned as something stinks in the Nation’s Capital and it has nothing to do with politics. Dishonorable Mention: Oakland Raiders, Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Lloyd Vance is a Sr. NFL Writer for Taking It to the House and an award -winning member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA)
2009 NFL Season – Week 6 Power Rankings by Lloyd Vance
After a huge win over the New York Giants, Sean Payton and his high-flying Saints have not only garnered respect, but they have also moved up this week’s Power Rankings
This is one of my favorite times on the NFL calendar right before the midway part of the season. Teams are starting to separate into “Contenders” and “Pretenders” and each week certain teams are getting closer to the playoffs while others get closer to preparing for the 2010 NFL Draft.
In looking at the current NFL standings here’s the breakdown: The “Elite” – Vikings (6-0), Broncos (6-0), Saints (5-0), Colts (5-0), Falcons (4-1) and Giants (5-1); “Teams on the Cusp” — Steelers (4-2), Bengals (4-2), and Patriots (4-2); “The Contenders”, who are teams that are a step above average — Eagles (3-2), Bears (3-2), Cowboys (3-2), Cardinals (3-2), and Niners (3-2); “Stuck in the Middle” inconsistent teams, who are caught in the NFL’s parity-filled middle that either need to join the playoff hunt or fall back – Ravens (3-3), Jets (3-3), Texans (3-3), Jaguars (3-3), Dolphins (2-3), and Chargers (2-3); The “Pretenders”, who are also in the middle of the pack but are only a shade away from the league’s bottom rung – Seahawks (2-4), Panthers (2-3), Raiders (2-4), Bills (2-4), and Redskins (2-4); and lastly the “Putrid” (i.e. You should just skip to the 2010 NFL Draft) – Chiefs (1-5), Browns (1-5), Lions (1-5), Rams (0-6), Buccaneers (0-6), and Titans (0-6)
Now on to the rankings for this week.
1. Colts (5-0) – Head Coach Jim Caldwell’s team got a well-deserved bye week and maybe injured players SS Bob Sanders and WR Anthony Gonzalez will be back after the off week. Some will say the Colts have their second bye in a row as they travel to St. Louis to face a winless Rams squad. Don’t expect a letdown from Peyton Manning (should get his 6th straight 300-yard passing game this season) and his guys.
2. Vikings (6-0) – In one of Week 6’s marquee games, the Vikings were able to squeak past the Ravens as Baltimore’s young kicker missed a makeable field goal at the end of regulation. In a game that will truly tell everyone just how good QB Brett Favre and his young Vikings are, the new rulers of the NFC North will travel to Pittsburgh to face a resurgent Steelers squad.
3. Saints (5-0) – The Superdome was rocking as the undefeated Saints showed the bottom-feeding Giants the door in a blowout win that put New Orleans near the top of the NFC. The Saints road to legitimacy gets harder this week as they face a physical hard-running Dolphins team in Miami.
4. Broncos (6-0) – After a dominating road win over the Chargers on Monday Night Football — could have been a classic letdown situation — I am finally ready to jump on the Broncos and head coach Josh McDaniels bandwagon. The Broncos will remain undefeated for sure this week as they have a bye.
5. Giants (5-1) – Well I guess we got our answer on whether the Giants were fattening up on cupcakes at the beginning of the season. The Saints throttled the Giants by a lopsided score, so it will be interesting to see how Tom Coughlin’s team responds. The G-Men return to the Meadowlands this week to face the high flying Cardinals, who have seemed to be back on track offensively and defensively.
6. Steelers (4-2) –For the 12th time in a row, the Steelers push aside the woeful Cleveland Browns this time at Heinz Field. The resurgent Steelers will probably get their sternest test of this young season this week as the high-profile Vikings and QB Brett Favre come to town.
7. Patriots (4-2) – Playing in the snow, QB Tom Brady and the Patriots had one of the greatest passing days in NFL history as they embarrassed the Tennessee Titans, who some say they quit . Next up for the Patriots is a trip across the Atlantic to Merry Ole England to feast the winless Tampa Bay Bucs.
8. Falcons (4-1) – In a match-up of two of the NFL’s best “Young Guns”, the Falcons led by Matt Ryan delivered when it mattered most in a win over Chicago Bears and strong-armed QB Jake Cutler. In a tougher than you would think battle, the Falcons travel to Dallas to face a well rested Cowboys squad, who are looking for some consistency.
9. Bengals (4-2) – A week after a big AFC North win at Baltimore, the Bengals were surprised by the offensive minded Houston Texans. In a highly anticipated inter-conference battle, the Bengals and revenge-minded RB Cedric Benson (going against the team that released him) will host the Bears and their new pass rusher DE Gaines Adams.
10. Bears (3-2) – On Sunday Night Football, the Bears continually turned the football over in the redzone which was their downfall against the Atlanta Falcons. Next up is a respect game against the host Cincinnati Bengals and loser will fall right back to the NFL’s parity-filled middle.
11. Cardinals (3-2) – The Cards continued to shake their Super Bowl hangover by pounding NFC West rival, the Seattle Seahawks. Next up, QB Kurt Warner and rest of the Cards will need to prove that they can win a game in the Easter timezone as travel to Pittsburgh to face the resurgent Steelers.
12. 49ers (3-2) – Head Coach Mike Singletary and his staff were probably overtime during the bye week to improve a team that has been a little inconsistent as of late. Look for the return of injured running back Frank Gore and debut of just-signed first rounder Michael Crabtree as the Niners travel to Houston to face the inconsistent Texans.
13. Ravens (3-3) – John Harbaugh’s team were just a field goal away from putting an “L” on the undefeated Vikings, but it was not be and the Ravens have now lost 3 straight games. Look for the Ravens to enjoy their bye week as they try to find a breakout receiver and their once fearsome defense.
14. Eagles (3-2) – In probably the biggest upset of the week, the Eagles went across country and laid an egg in against the supposed pushover Raiders – well at least the Fightin’ Phils are picking up the Birds slack. Eagles head coach Andy Reid better find his running game and quick as his team travels to FedEx field to take on the reeling Redskins and their beleaguered head coach Jim Zorn.
15. Packers (3-2) – It wasn’t even close as the Detroit Lions served as the Packers homecoming team in a lopsided win. The Packers and freewheeling quarterback Aaron Rodgers continue their tour of the NFL’s underbelly as they travel to Cleveland to face a horrible Browns team.
16. Cowboys (3-2) – Hopefully head coach Wade Phillips and offensive coordinator Jason Garrett put the Cowboys bye to good work as it maybe win or leave if the ‘Boys continue their inconsistent ways. In a statement game, the Cowboys will host the hard-charging Atlanta Falcons and QB Matty “Ice” Ryan.
17. Dolphins (2-3) – I am sure during the bye week that the Dolphins were adding even more wrinkles to their Wildcat offense. In a game that could prove to be a season saver, the Dolphins and their rushing attack – average of 177 yards per game — will host the undefeated Saints.
18. Jets (3-3) – Head coach Rex Ryan and rookie QB Mark Sanchez are finding out how tough the NFL can be as they lost in overtime to Buffalo Bills in a game the J-E-T-S were “supposed” to win. Gang Green will look to avoid being the Raiders second straight upset victim as they travel to Oakland this week.
19. Texans (3-3) – Head coach Gary Kubiak’s team continued their inconsistent ways as they surprised the Bengals in an offensive road victory in Cincy. In a battle of upstarts, the Texans will host the emerging Niners and the loser will definitely fall to the NFL’s middle.
20. Panthers (2-3) – The Panthers continued their climb back to respectability with their second straight win this time over the winless Tampa Bay Bucs. In a game that can get them back to .500, look for the Panthers to ride their stellar running game against the injured Buffalo Bills.
21. Jaguars (3-3) – The NFL’s most inconsistent team was back up to their old tricks as they bounced back from a shutout loss to beat the winless Rams in overtime. The Jags should put their best player, Maurice Jones-Drew, on ice during the bye week because as he goes, so goes the team.
22. Chargers (2-3) –Head Coach Norv Turner’s team put up a mini-fight but in the end you could clearly see that the AFC West division leading Denver Broncos were hungrier on Monday Night Football. In a must-win game, the Chargers will travel to Kansas City to face a Chiefs squad coming off their first win of the season.
23. Seahawks (2-4) –The Hawks showed that they are a “Pretender” even with QB Matt Hasselbeck at the controls as they were throttled by the Arizona Cardinals in a huge NFC West battle. The Seahawks will have a much-needed bye week to get players like Hasselbeck and DE Patrick Kerney healthy again.
24. Bills (2-4) – The Bills surprised the J-E-T-S in overtime as kick Rian Lindell made the most of his second chance to win the game. In a battle of two teams that either are going to get back in the race or fall down with the NFL’s dregs, the Bills travel to Carolina to face a hungry Panthers’ squad.
25. Raiders (2-4) – Al Davis’ team put aside all of their drama for one week to out-hustle the arrogant Philadelphia Eagles, who left their game plan and intensity back in Philly. Now that head coach Tom Cable doesn’t have to worry about the Po-Po knocking on his door any longer, you have to wonder can the Raiders pull another home-win shocker against the fluttering Jets.
26. Chiefs (1-5) – Even though it was more of an indicator of the ineptness of Redskins head coach Jim Zorn, the Chiefs had to be ecstatic about their first win of the season. The Chiefs will try to make it two upsets in a row as they host the angry San Diego Chargers.
27. Redskins (2-4) – After a horrible home loss to the formerly winless Chiefs, the Skins handed the team’s offensive reins to offensive consultant Sherman Lewis. Before a Week 8 bye, the Redskins will try to salvage their lagging season in a crucial home Monday Night Football battle against the embarrassed Philadelphia Eagles.
28. Lions (1-5) – Not even former Packers killer QB Daunte Culpepper could keep the still rebuilding Lions from being torn apart by the Packers. I am sure during the bye week that the Lions will try to focus more on the fact that they have already won a game this season rather than their many holes.
29. Browns (1-5) – It was the same old story for the Dawgs as the Steelers tamed them once again as QB Ben Roethlisberger had a career day throwing the football. The Browns will try to pick-up the pieces as they host the surging Green Bay Packers in a match-up of two Midwest teams going in opposite directions.
30. Buccaneers (0-6) – Once again the Bucs fought hard, but they just didn’t have the depth or overall talent to beat the rebounding Carolina Panthers. For the Bucs, It must be a hard thing knowing that you are going all the way to London, England to be the New England Patriots next “homecoming” opponent.
31. Rams (0-6) – Steve Spanuolo’s squad gave it their all , but unfortunately they came up short against MJD and the Jaguars in overtime. The road doesn’t get any easier for the Rams as they host the well-rested and scary Indianapolis Colts who are hitting on all cylinders on offense and defense.
32. Titans (0-6) – In an embarrassing loss that the NFL has not seen in years, the Patriots ran the score-up (59-0) on the Titans and some say Jeff Fisher’s team just plain “quit”. During the bye week, Fisher better clean-up his horrible secondary and start thinking about playing former rookie of the year QB Vince Young since veteran thrower Kerry Collins could only manage -7 yards passing against the Patriots.
Lloyd Vance is a Sr. NFL Writer for Taking It to the House and an award-winning member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA)
The Redskins have hit Rock Bottom by Lloyd Vance
Redskins offensive “consultant” Sherman Lewis will soon be a very busy man as he tries to clean-up Jim Zorn’s sputtering offense
On a day where the Philadelphia Eagles surprisingly left their heads in Philadelphia before an embarrassing loss to the Oakland Raiders and the Tennessee Titans “quit” in a 59-0 bludgeoning at the hands of the New Patriots, the NFL got a real view of what “Rock Bottom” is in Washington DC. The Washington Redskins (2-4) continued to be the laughingstock of the NFL, despite the presence of winless teams like the Rams, Titans, and Buccaneers, in a putrid 14-6 home loss to the formerly winless Kansas City Chiefs (1-5).
The Chiefs improbable win marked the third time that Redskins had allowed a formerly winless team to beat them. Entering Sunday, the Chiefs — had lost 28 of its previous 30 games — were ranked pretty much last in the NFL in almost every defensive category while allowing 27.6 points and 402.8 yards per game. So how did the Redskins and their West Coast offensive guru head coach Jim Zorn treat the Chiefs. Well the Redskins — or as my colleague Lake Lewis of Sport Journey radio calls them “The Deadskins” — managed just 265 yards of total offense and gained only 7 first downs. While turning the ball over 2 times, committing 7 penalties resulting in 63 yards, and going only 2 for 14 on third-down conversions.
What a mess, to say the least. FedEx field that easily holds over 90,000 fans was half-full or half-empty, depending on your outlook for the ‘Skins. In all the madness, Zorn in his infinite wisdom decided to pin the Redskins woes on his starting quarterback, Jason Campbell, who he replaced at halftime. Granted Campbell was not at his greatest Sunday – finished with numbers 9/16, 89 yards, 0 TDs, and 1 INT – but his replacement veteran backup Todd Collins was probably worse. Collins (6/14, 75 yards, 0 TDs, 0 INTs and 2 Fumbles both recovered by the Skins) did connected with WR Santana Moss on a 42-yard strike on his first pass (led to a field goal), but from there it was “Check-down City”. Overall, Collins was tentative in the pocket and took too many sacks including a safety (sacked in the endzone by Chiefs DE Tamba Ali) in the game’s desperate closing minutes.
Zorn in explaining why he benched Campbell said, “He was a little late in hitting some things and inaccurate.” Hey Zorn…I wonder if you have a mirror? To me it was ridiculous that the Redskins headman would look at anyone other than himself for his team’s ineptness. The Redskins defense didn’t allow a touchdown (four Ryan Succop field goals and a safety), sacked Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassell 5 times and allowed only 268 net yards, despite playing with bad field position over and over (Chiefs started their final four drives in Redskins territory).
The Redskins’ offense now is averaging only 13.2 points per game this season and hasn’t scored more than 17 in any game despite playing facing six consecutive winless opponents (first team in NFL history). Zorn began his postgame news conference with a huge sigh then rightfully stepped forward to face the awful music – with the loss to the Chiefs, the Redskins are now 4-10 in their last 14 games. Of his team’s offensive effort Zorn said, “This offense is better than six points, 100 percent. And that’s on me”. You are right Zorn!!
However the Redskins organization did send a loud and clear message to their beleaguered head coach immediately after the game . According to Redskins spokesman Zack Bolno, VP of Football Operations Vinny Cerrato told Zorn that he had too many responsibilities and someone else (insert name: “Sherman Lewis”) should run the offense during games. In case you didn’t know, Lewis (West Coast coach from the ‘90s Green Bay Packers) had been added to Zorn’s staff in early October without the coach’s knowledge.
As if the addition of Lewis as an “offensive consultant” wasn’t a big enough slap in the face of Zorn, now a guy that has been out of the NFL for over five years and someone he didn’t even want will be calling his team’s offensive plays from here on out. Quite frankly, I have to admit that I find it hilarious how Redskins owner Daniel Snyder and his staff have continued sawing off Zorn piece-by-piece without actually firing him. With the angry Philadelphia Eagles, fresh off an embarrassing loss to the Raiders, coming to town in Week 7, the Redskins should expect another humiliating home loss.
So rest assured, the inevitable firing of Zorn will soon be upon us, probably during the Redskins’ bye week in Week 8. “It’s going to be a very hard week,” Zorn said. “Last week, I thought that was as hard as it can get. It just got harder.”
Stay tuned as something stinky needs to be cleaned up in the Nation’s Capital and it has nothing to do with politics.
Lloyd Vance is a Sr. NFL Writer for Taking It to the House and an award-winning member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA)
www.sportsjourney.com 