MY POWER RANKINGS (WEEK 12)

December 3rd, 2010, Friday

MY NFL Team Power Rankings
(Thru Week Twelve)


There are still a few doubters out there, but for the first 12 weeks of the 2010 season, no team has played better or been more consistent than the Atlanta Falcons. They are not perfect, but for the moment they remain on top of my rankings.

While the Falcons remain the cream of the crop, the Jets and Patriots remain on their heels by continuing their winning ways; of course that will end for one this Monday night. Mr. Destiny, Mr. Chance, and Mrs. Karma must all be football fans seeing as how the 9-2 Jets will be meeting the 9-2 Patriots on Monday night. And as if that wasn’t enough, how about a tasty appetizer on Sunday night before the Monday night main course with the 8-3 Ravens hosting the 8-3 Steelers?

This weekend’s action promises to be nothing less than exciting and will surely shake up the rankings. With week 13 Sunday set to kickoff in less than two days, here’s how I rank them;

Top 10
(Does not include Thursday’s game)

1. Atlanta Falcons (9-2): The Falcons are led by Matty “Ice” Ryan, as he is now affectionately known; Ryan has 19 passing touchdowns this season and has his team a perfect 6-0 at home. A balanced offensive attack and stingy defense (19 points allowed per game) has the Falcons looking to fly a long way.
2. New York Jets (9-2): The Jets and quarterback Mark Sanchez just keep finding ways to win, but a big test on Monday night could legitimize their recent efforts or cast a cloud of doubt over what has been thus far a pretty good run this season.
3. New England Patriots (9-2): The Patriots are starting to show some semblance of the early 2000 Super Bowl teams. With a huge showdown with the Jets looming, you know Brady and Belichick were made for these moments, but is their young defense ready for the challenge?
4. Baltimore Ravens (8-3): The Ravens defense is starting to grove with Ed Reed back, only 23 points allowed in the last two weeks. With Flacco starting to open up the passing game (295 yards per game the past two games), this week’s showdown with the Steelers could take on an aerial look.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3): The Steelers dodged a bullet last week surviving in overtime, but a leaky secondary could be a problem in their week 13 matchup with the Ravens on Sunday night.
6. New Orleans Saints (8-3): The Saints keep chasing the division leading Falcons, but with four straight wins there is no slowdown to their chase. In the last four games the Saints are averaging over 29 points; they are starting to look like last season’s champs.
7. Chicago Bears (8-3): The Monsters of the Midway have returned to the windy city and the Bears defense has them sitting atop the north all alone. They will face a tough test down the stretch with games against NE, MIN, NYJ, and GB.
8. Green Bay Packers (7-4): The Packers stumbled last week on the road against a good Atlanta team, but they catch a bit of a break with the Niners in town this week. Packers don’t have the horses to run the ball (ranked 23rd), they will only go as far as Aaron Rodgers and the passing game (ranked 8th) take them.
9. Philadelphia Eagles (7-4): The Eagles coming into week 13 were still a dangerous team that present a lot of matchup problems for opposing defenses. With the win on Thursday night, the Texans experienced a lot of those matchup problems while the rest of the league was able to watch.
10. New York Giants (7-4): The Giants have hit a few bumps in the road of late, but a win last week moved them into a first place tie with the Eagles and now have the two on a showdown collision course rematch set for week 15.

The Rest of the league

• Kansas City Chiefs (7-4)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-4)
• San Diego Chargers (6-5)
• Indianapolis Colts (6-5)
• Jacksonville Jaguars (6-5)
• Miami Dolphins (6-5)
• Washington Redskins (5-6)
• Tennessee Titans (5-6)
• Oakland Raiders (5-6)
• St. Louis Rams (5-6)
• Houston Texans (5-6)
• Seattle Seahawks (5-6)
• San Francisco 49ers (4-7)
• Minnesota Vikings (4-7)
• Cleveland Browns (4-7)
• Dallas Cowboys (3-8)
• Denver Broncos (3-8)
• Arizona Cardinals (3-8)
• Buffalo Bills (2-9)
• Detroit Lions (2-9)
• Cincinnati Bengals (2-9)
• Carolina Panthers (1-10)

HOW I SEE IT

December 1st, 2010 Wednesday

HOW I SEE IT

Something is Amiss in Indy

When was the last time we saw the colts lose two straight? I’m sure it has happened on several occasions, but usually the culprit time and time again has been the team’s questionable defense.

While the Indy defense of 2010 is nothing to fear, this current slide can not be faulted to them. Sue the opposing offenses have managed to carve the defense up as has been the case for the most part in the past, but over the last two weeks something’s been amiss in Indy; the play of quarterback Peyton Manning.

In his last two starts Manning has committed seven turnovers, which surprisingly is not a career high for the most turnovers in any two game stretches. Back in 2007 Manning had eight, but that was only because he threw six picks in one game.

Everyone makes mistakes and quarterbacks throw picks, but with Manning in particular over the past two weeks his errors have been monumental. In week 11 a late 4th quarter interception killed a possible game winning/tying drive with just 31 seconds left in the game. Last week against the Chargers Manning threw two picks that were returned for touchdowns.

One would have to ask, is Peyton sick? What’s the problem?

While it is Manning making these mistakes, all may not be his fault alone. Coincidently, in the team’s last two games, the Colts are averaging just 16 run plays and just 48 yards on the ground. The non-existent run game (heavily due to injury; Joseph Addai-neck, Mike Hart-ankle) has placed a lot of weight on the shoulders of “the Sheriff” (Manning).

Along with the lack of production in the run game, Manning’s O-line has been letting him down as well. Last Sunday against the Chargers the Colts signal caller was faced with a lot of pressure from the opposing defense. Manning was hurried and hit repeatedly, though he was sacked only once.

For the Colts, there should be no worries about Manning getting himself corrected, but if the team is going to get back on track a healthy backfield and better play up front will be needed. There’s no doubt that because of his passing instincts and ability to get rid of the ball quickly has Manning saved the offense on occasion by avoiding too many sacks.

Then again a sack does less damage than a turnover; something that Peyton should consider while he and his team work those needed pieces back into place (which you know they will).

The Forecast in Denver; Dark and Gloomy

So much for a vote of confidence coming from team owner Pat Bowlen, when asked about the security of head coach Josh McDaniels job. Following the team’s debacle and eighth loss of the season on Sunday, in a interview by AOL Fanhouse Bowlen stated that McDaniels would return in 2011, saying “I’m not interested in making a coaching change.”

As early as Monday, all of that has changed with Bowlen leaving a caveat that he will continue to monitor the team’s progress and do what is in its’ best interest. For McDaniel’s and his tenure as the man in charge on the sideline, it appears the bloom has fallen off his rose.

After his thunderous 6-0 start last season everything has simply gone downhill in the wrong direction and appears to be picking up speed. After such an impressive start McDaniels and his new look Bronco’s have lost 16 of their last 21 games. The Bronco’s have also surrendered a total of 124 points in its’ last three home games. They are 2-4 at home this season and back in week seven the team suffered one of the worst losses at home in franchise history.

There comes a time when you have to cut your losses and for Bowlen, McDaniels, and the fans of Denver, that time may have come and past. When you are building a winner you need to have the right pieces and the best pieces in place to win. You need a big armed franchise quarterback, a physical beast of a receiver, and a tough nosed versatile ball-carrier; oops, they had all of this and the kid from Boston chased them away. The damage was not just losing that talent, but having to back into the draft to replace those players rather than rebuilding a defense filled with great veteran leadership.

Drafting talent on offense like Knowshon Moreno, Tim Tebow, and Demaryius Thomas only became necessary when McDaniels traded Jay Cutler (although that deal seems to be working out), Brandon Marshall, and Peyton Hillis away. These were valuable picks that could have been spent on a mountain of a D-lineman, a pass rush specialist, and a playmaking linebacker.

Nonetheless, the decisions were made and since his (McDaniels’) arrival to Denver there’s been no question as to who has been in charge of the Bronco’s camp. This has been McDaniel’s ship to steer and with five games left in a season that is in all likelihood over, he needs to make great strides and a huge positive impression to convince the locals and the team owner he’s the right man for the job.

Finishing 8-8 is not much of an accomplishment for a team that has been here the last two seasons, but to finish THIS season with five straight wins would sure make the right impression for those Denver diehards wishing to see this mess-of-a 3-8 team get cleaned up.

In a game that is highly visible and greatly viewed, impressions mean everything because they give perception; and perception sells. You can’t look good and lose in the NFL, you only look good winning; if you win, you look good period.

Just my take.

By David Ortega

KEYS 2 SUNDAY

November 28th, 2010, Sunday

Keys 2 Sunday

Week 12 Previews

Philadelphia Eagles @ Chicago Bears

I will be the first person to admit I am not completely sold on “Da Bears” this season. Even at 7-3 running stride for stride with the Green Bay Packers in the NFC North has yet to sell me.

In eleven weeks, the Bears have managed to stumble their way to seven wins despite being ranked just 20th in the league running the ball and turning the ball over 28 times this season. There’s no question the defense has been a plus, but I have my suspicions about this third ranked unit.

Today the Eagles will be in town and with Mike Vick and company. In their last three games led by Vick the Eagles are averaging 37 points per game. Offensively today’s matchup will be all about Vick and the Bears ability to control and try to contain the elusive quarterback. The Eagles will be relying heavily on Vick’s legs (5 rushing touchdowns) are arm (11 passing touchdowns) today as the Bears (ranked 2nd against the run) won’t be yielding much to the ground game today.

A big key for the Eagles success will be quarterback Jay Cutler’s (10 interceptions) tendency to force throws and take chances and his offensive line’s inability to provide needed protection (37 sacks allowed). The Eagles defense ranks just 14th against the pass, but with 26 sacks this season they will be bringing the pressure.

This game will be a story of big plays by Vick and the Eagles passing game against a secondary that has succumbed to the big pass on occasion, but it will also feature a number of turnovers that could befall the Cutler and the Bears, courtesy of the Eagles pass rush. In their last three wins, the defense has pressured opposing quarterbacks registering 5 sacks and forcing 11 turnovers.

Since the Bears don’t run the ball nearly enough, expect to see this game take on a familiar feel for Eagle fans; lots of pressure, lots of hurries, some sacks, and of course a few costly turnovers.

My Pick; Eagles 31, Bears 21

MY POWER RANKINGS (WEEK 11)

November 23rd, 2010, Wednesday

MY NFL Team Power Rankings
(Thru Week Eleven)

This week the Falcons remain atop the nest of Power rankings following their week 11 victory over the Rams. Led by quarterback Matt Ryan (18 passing touchdowns in 2010), the Falcons used a balance attack (253 yards passing-138 yards rushing) to improve their road 3-2 and 8-2 overall.

The Falcons continue their success not needing much luck, unlike the New York Jets who once again found some late game magic to pull out the win. After nearly blowing a 23-7 lead, the Jets found themselves trailing 27-23 with less than a minute to play. And as they have now done in three consecutive games, quarterback Mark Sanchez and the Jets found a way. Sanchez connected with Santonio Holmes in the left corner of the end-zone for a 6-yard score with 16 second left to steal the game back.

A couple of noteworthy teams making moves up the ranking ladder this week with just great play include the Packers and the Saints. Both clubs looked very good in their respective games scoring over 30 points on their way to victory.

With week 12 set to kickoff on Thanksgiving Thursday with three games, here’s how I rank them;

Top 10

1. Atlanta Falcons (8-2): Matt Ryan continues to play flawless with 18 touchdowns to just 5 interceptions while his line continues to dominate up front; no sacks and 138 yards on the ground.
2. New York Jets (8-2): You can’t teach luck, but the Jets sure know how to win with it. They are not just lucky, being good often puts you in a good spot to take advantage and at 8-2, Ryan and his boys are not letting many opportunities slip past.
3. New England Patriots (8-2): Another solid win for Brady and his little bunch. In the last two weeks the Pats have defeated teams with a combined record of 13-7 and outscored them by 70-54. This team looks ready for the post-season.
4. Baltimore Ravens (7-3): After stumbling in week 10 to the Falcons, the Ravens bounced back in week 11 behind a strong performance from their third year quarterback Joe Flacco. Flacco passed for 301 yards and had the aid of two defensive touchdowns to help secure the win. If the Raven’s defense starts chipping in points too, this team could be a post season nightmare for some.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-3): The Steelers rebounded in week 11 with a dominating performance against the Raiders. The offense ran up 431 yards of offense with 35 points while the defense limited Oakland to 182 nets yards and a single field goal.
6. New Orleans Saints (7-3): Drew Brees looked sharp completing 29 of 43 passes with four touchdowns and 382 yards passing. The results Saints 34, opponent a bus ticket home; now this is more like the defending champs.
7. Green Bay Packers (7-3): There is no question the Packers have the swagger and look of a winner now; 76 points and averaging 394 yards of offense their last two games. With 7 touchdowns in his last two starts Rodgers looked poised and ready to lead a second half charge deep into the post-season.
8. Philadelphia Eagles (7-3): The Eagles continue to dial up Mike Vick’s number on Sunday and he just wins. When Vick has started for the Eagles this season, they are 5-2. One of those losses came when Vick was knocked out early to (rib) injury. Since his return, the team has won three straight outscoring their opponents 112-69.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-3): A surprise team this season that should no longer be, the Buccaneers are starting to look like the real deal. An impressive 21-0 road win over the Niners last Sunday has firmly implanted the Bucs into our top ten. With two tough tests ahead, the Ravens this week followed by the Falcons in week 13 we’ll see just how good this team really is.
10. Chicago Bears (7-3): A team that has not been getting much air play or notoriety, the Bears continue to get better and look good. After handling the Vikings in week 10 decisively, the Bears followed that up with a more impressive Thursday night win over the Dolphins; offense-135 net yards rushing and 19 first downs/defense-six sacks and zero points allowed.


The Rest of the league

• New York Giants (6-4)
• Kansas City Chiefs (6-4)
• Indianapolis Colts (6-4)
• Jacksonville Jaguars (6-4)
• Washington Redskins (5-5)
• Tennessee Titans (5-5)
• San Diego Chargers (5-5)
• Oakland Raiders (5-5)
• Miami Dolphins (5-5)
• Seattle Seahawks (5-5)
• St. Louis Rams (4-6)
• Houston Texans (4-6)
• Dallas Cowboys (3-7)
• San Francisco 49ers (3-7)
• Denver Broncos (3-7)
• Minnesota Vikings (3-7)
• Cleveland Browns (3-7)
• Arizona Cardinals (3-7)
• Buffalo Bills (2-8)
• Detroit Lions (2-8)
• Cincinnati Bengals (2-8)
• Carolina Panthers (1-9)

KEYS 2 SUNDAY

November 20th, 2010, Saturday

Keys 2 Sunday

Week 11 Previews

New York Jets @ Houston

The Jets come into week 11 having just come off their second straight win in overtime. Sometimes it may be better to be lucky than good, but these guys are playing with fire a little too often for comfort. Fortunately for Rex Ryan and company they will be facing a Texans team that could be ripe for the picking; no luck here, just good football.

The Texan’s are ranked dead last against the pass and with just 14 sacks this season they will have a rough time trying to get to Jet’s quarterback Mark Sanchez (sacked 14 times this season). For New York pass protection will be a big key and there’s no better way to protect the quarterback than running the ball. With LaDanian Tomlinson and Shonn Greene the Jets will pound the pigskin inside against the Texan’s 15th ranked run defense.

Defensively the Jets will use their stud corners Revis Island and the Antonio Cromartie to slow down the Matt Schaub and the Texan’s passing attack. With a beast like Andre Johnson, you can’t hope to stop him, just get in the way a lot and slow him down.

Defensively the Jets will need lots of pressure on Schaub and it will be critical that their 5th ranked run defense contains running back Arian Foster. In nine games this season, the Jets defense has yet to allow more than 88 yards to any one runner.

With big play potential receivers like Santonio Holmes and Braylon Edwards, a bruising ground game led by L.T. and Greene, and a stellar defense the Jets should have little difficulty getting out front early. Expect to see the Jets control tempo early and often and force the Texans offense into one dimensional. This game will stay interesting long into the second half, but the Jets will run out front early and keep their distance.

My Pick; Jets 28,Texans 20

Indianpolis Colts @ New England Patriots

If you have been following both teams this season this would seem like an easy read. The Colts are on the road following a two game slide and appear to be running into a buzz-saw. Last Sunday night Tom Brady and company completely dismantled the Pittsburgh Steelers in Steel Town.

With tomorrow’s tilt in Foxboro, the 7-2 Patirots will continue to ride the magical arm of Mr. Brady. Brady has been terrific this season passing for nearly 2,200 yards and throwing 17 touchdowns in nine games.

Historically the Patriots have owned the Colts outdoors in the northeast, so Sunday’s matchup will in all likelihood become a showcase of the two star quarterbacks doing battle once again. The Colts would appear to lack the horses to keep their attack balanced and with Belichick master-minding the defense look for Patriots to cause confusion and try to force the Colts into mistakes.

The Colts have not been good against the run and bringing a whole lot of pressure, although they do have a nice pair of speed rushers on the outside. What’s going to be key for New England is effective running on the early downs to keep the dogs at bay to open up things downfield for Brady and his bunch.

Manning is not going to down without swinging, so this one will be a fight to the end no doubt, but the Pats will have the home cooking, the crowd, and of course Mr. Brady.

My Pick; Patriots 31, Colts 24

New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles

After watching his performance last Monday night, the game plan for the Eagles will be very simple, put the ball in Michael Vick’s hands and let his arm and legs do the work. Last week Vick was dominant like we’ve rarely ever seen, throwing the ball and running with the greatest of ease.

Vick has the ability to open up the defense and shred them apart with a precision touch and rocket arm. The Giant’s 4th ranked pass defense (14 touchdowns allowed) is going to have their hands full not only trying to keep Vick in check, but keeping up with the speedy Eagle’s receivers DeSean Jackson (5 touchdowns) and Jeremy Maclin (7 touchdowns).

Unfortunately for the Giant’s defense, Vick and the Eagles are not one dimensional and not only will Mike Vick cause the defense to get sick, but running back LeSean McCoy (615 yards rushing) will be a problem as well.

The Giants are pretty good on the defensive side of the ball, but the Eagles just have too many weapons. This tilt will be a street-fight until the final gun, but the difference could come down to the how well the Eagle’s defense plays. Their key will be to pressure Eli Manning and with 26 sacks this season, there could be a couple of Eagles getting awfully close to him.

This will be a good ole bar-room brawl between two NFC East heavy weights, but the final score may not reflect just how close an evenly matched these two teams are. The Eagles are soaring and at home, they should continue to fly.

My Pick; Eagles 34, Giants 23

STARS OF TOMORROW

November 18th, 2010 Thursday

Football Stars of Tomorrow

Every weekend, the future stars of tomorrow take to the field and play with their hearts. As parents we watch our youth develop into young adults and blossom into the many possibilities that lie ahead.

Here is a glimpse into the future, as you take a look at some of our football stars of tomorrow!

MY POWER RANKINGS (WEEK 10)

November 18th, 2010, Thursday

MY NFL Team Power Rankings
(thru Week Ten)

Sometimes all you need is love and a little luck never hurts, just ask the New York Jets; two wins in overtime over the past two weeks. While the Jets are living large and fancy free, the Falcons and Patriots are not just playing well, but they are looking very good. With impressive wins over the Ravens and Steelers respectively, it’s hard to not imagine the Matt Ryan and Tom Brady led teams squaring off in February.

Other teams to watch as January nears include the Packers, Saints, and Eagles. All three are loaded with enough offense talent to cause many defensive coordinators to have nightmares. Lets’ not forget those teams with the kind of defenses that cause quarterback to feel uneasy, the Steelers, Ravens, and the Bears. These are teams that appear primed to be playing well into January.

With week 11 underway this Thursday, here’s how they rank;

Top 10

1. Atlanta Falcons (7-2): Right now, there are not too many teams that look quite as strong and balanced as the Falcons. They are firing on all cylinders and Matt Ryan is playing lights out; 5-0 at home, this is a team you will not want to see in late December and early January.
2. New York Jets (7-2): The Jets keep dodging bullets, but sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good. The good news for the Jets, they are both lucky and good. With Sanchez making plays at the end of games, the kid is growing up fast and should be ready for the playoffs.
3. New England Patriots (7-2): After dismantling the vaunted Steeler’s defense, it looks like Brady has his swagger back as do the Pats. At 7-2 and tied for first in the east, it’s starting to look like the AFC may have to go through Foxboro, AGAIN!
4. New York Giants (6-3): Despite the major blunder and major let down at home last week to the Cowboys the Giants have a chance to rebound, but they had better be careful. With the Eagles next on the slate they could be running into another buzz-saw.
5. Baltimore Ravens (6-3): The Raven’s looked like a team on the rise, but last week against the Falcons they stumbled a bit. Still with a loaded offense and nasty defense Baltimore will figure in the mix down the stretch.
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3): The Steelers found out that their defense is not invincible and they also learned the hard way, Brady is still alive. The Steelers still have a lot of offense and plenty of defense to make noise, but they had better tighten up that secondary; 350 yards passing allowed in week 10.
7. New Orleans Saints (6-3): The Saints were idle last week, but have yet to completely heal. They are still the defending champs and loaded with talent; they will have a lot to say down the stretch in the second half of the season.
8. Green Bay Packers (6-3): Idle last week, the Packers appear primed and ready to seize control of the division and could be catching a reeling Vikings team at the right time. The Packers have yet to look dominant, but coming off a strong week nine showing, they look ready for the second half.
9. Philadelphia Eagles (6-3): Following one of the most dominating performances that this league has ever seen by quarterback Michael Vick last Monday night, the Eagles just continue their steady climb toward the top. A Sunday night showdown with the G-men will be huge!
10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-3): The Buccaneers keep surprising and winning. An impressive win at home has Morris and the kids just one game back of the division leading Falcons. Most people are still not talking a whole lot about the Bucs, but as long as they keep winning, they will.


The Rest of the league

• Chicago Bears (6-3)
• Kansas City Chiefs (5-4)
• Indianapolis Colts (5-4)
• Tennessee Titans (5-4)
• Oakland Raiders (5-4)
• Miami Dolphins (5-4)
• Jacksonville Jaguars (5-4)
• Seattle Seahawks (5-4)
• St. Louis Rams (4-5)
• Washington Redskins (4-5)
• Houston Texans (4-5)
• San Diego Chargers (4-5)
• San Francisco 49ers (3-6)
• Denver Broncos (3-6)
• Minnesota Vikings (3-6)
• Cleveland Browns (3-6)
• Arizona Cardinals (3-6)
• Dallas Cowboys (2-7)
• Detroit Lions (2-7)
• Cincinnati Bengals (2-7)
• Buffalo Bills (1-8)
• Carolina Panthers (1-8)

THAT'S MY TAKE

November 12th, 2010, Friday

That's My Take

Dallas Cowboys: Can Jason Garrett Save a Sinking Ship

In many ways the 2010 Dallas Cowboys are not much dissimilar to the U.S.S. Titanic. With their many talented players, their gigantic organization ego, the team has at times been viewed as larger than life; and with a billion dollar stadium it’s not hard to do.

Despite all the glitz, glamour, and armor, we see the 2010 Cowboys are not invincible and like the ill-fated ship at 1-7 and coming off one of their most embarrassing losses in franchise history more than a week ago they have struck an iceberg of metaphoric proportions.

Even as a non-Cowboys fan it was hard to watch the team play without any inspiration and fire. The Packers simply steam rolled the Cowboys 45-7 and sent them packing and heading towards what would appear to be rock bottom.

When training camps opened many folks liked the Cowboys chances heading into the regular season, because of the tremendous level of talent this team possessed. But as some same, talent can only get you so far. And in 2010, all their talent wasn’t even enough to get them out of the gate and into the race. The Cowboys lost their season opener in the same manner that they have been to losing all year long and since week one, they have been looking up from the bottom of their division.

By now the poor play of the Cowboys has been well chronicled, so on this vast ship over-hyped with great talent is Jason Garrett the right man to save this sinking vessel? A lot of what I have already read has given me an early impression that it may be too late. I have also seen a few scribbles and heard a few queries questioning Garrett’s own responsibility for the team’s current misfortunes; after all he was the offensive coordinator.

Through the first half of the season the Cowboy’s offense that is filled with all of this great talent we keep hearing about ranks 19th in scoring. What is obviously an undisciplined bunch, the Cowboys rank 30th in the turnover ratio with a scintillating minus 9 and their 62 penalties on offense also rank 7th most in the league. One of the team’s other Achilles this year has been their running game which is ranked, 31st in the league and has only two rushing touchdowns (tied for the fewest in the NFL) this season.

For being the man in charge of the offense, it’s hard to imagine that Garrett takes no responsibility or suffers any blame. Some would have to ask why team owner Jerry Jones doesn’t hold him more accountable.

If there is a simple answer, and for this team nothing seems to be simple it really makes no sense to fire Garrett along with Phillips and put this franchise in a complete upheaval. Leaving Garrett in place to ride this ship either into the mud of obscurity or maybe keep this pile of wreckage afloat long enough to sail back to mediocrity before making any permanent changes has some logic.

What sense would it make to bring in a new face now, with a built in excuse for failure. They wouldn’t have any commitment of loyalty to these players or coaches. It’s the smart move financially anyway since Garrett is making head coach money.

Now that Garrett is seated in the saddle, will this cowpoke go riding into the sunset or will he go down with the ship? Earlier this week Garrett held his first press conference as the new sheriff in town, and explained “how we do things around here.” It seems the new “Garrett-inspired” Cowboys do things with more tempo and no-nonsense; so where was this during the Wade Phillips era?

If Garrett was a big part of the culture that existed before, how does he expect to change things at Valley Ranch now?

It’s no secret that Garrett and Wade Phillips are two very different people and it sounds very much like there is a new sheriff in town. No-nonsense Garrett seems to be making every effort to tighten up the ship, but one has to wonder if he realizes what he has inherited. He has one big mess to clean up.

From this fans’ point of view, the team’s failure starts with accountability and lack of leadership. For weeks now we have been hearing from not just the coaches, but some of the players how it was not time to panic. While all of them were calming down the media, their season has been slowly slipping away. What I would have to ask; where are those players that are needed to step up and take charge, and accept some of this blame.

I am not going to point fingers at any players, but I do think a lot of the analysts have had it right about quarterback Tony Romo for example. He’s a player with a lot of talent, but doesn’t seem to be a great fit in the leadership role. He’s played well at times, but throughout this entire fiasco little has been said about him and even less has come from him. And like Romo, there are many others just as talented, but what seems to be missing in all cases is the needed leadership to pull the troops together

Garrett may be holding the reins at this point, but it’s going to take a little more than some pep talks, a firm whistle, and the Marlboro man to shake things up at Valley Ranch. After 16 weeks of football (which includes all of training camp), if these men have not found the motivation to become Cowboys I can’t imagine a simple changing of the guard doing it. Maybe Garrett has some magic or pixie dust in his pocket, but if he’s going to get this group to follow him like the pied piper he’d better start playing some great music quick.

Four months is a long time for this squad to become very comfortable and accustomed to things and how they are done. What is that saying, bad habits die hard and in this case they may take a few cowboys along the way. The Cowboys should note too, “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over, and expecting different results.” A change of routine may be the start, but I would not be surprised and believe that personnel changes could be needed to make a real difference.

Not to put a hopeless spin on everything, of course anything is possible, but rather than just looking at the new coach for the answers; the real answers will come from the players. If anything the coaching change should be a wakeup call and put everyone on notice. I thought these next 8 games might be an audition for Garrett to earn this job, but just as his opportunity at a head coaching career in the Dallas is on the line, for some of these Cowboys so should be their careers in Texas.

I won’t offer any opinion of what I think the outcome will be for the Cowboys this season, because at 1-7 there really aren’t too many options other than to finish the season with pride. While the task at hand is great, I do believe the insertion of Garrett could be a start, but is it the right start only time will tell. For Garrett and those Cowboys that hope to be back in Valley Ranch next season these 8 games will offer at the very least, an idea of how much and what kind of character they have.

While the football world watches and waits to see if the Cowboys can pull off the impossible and the prospect does not look good without Romo and any real team leadership present (at the moment), the big questions to ask; who will Garrett call on to help rally the troops? And is there anyone he can call?

The Dallas Cowboy’s 2010 season may be all but over, but if Garrett and company are still holding out for that miracle comeback, one positive note looking ahead, it’s very close to that time of the season.

Just my take.

By David Ortega

MY POWER RANKINGS (WK 9)

November 10th, 2010, Wednesday

MY NFL Team Power Rankings
(thru Week Nine)



This season has been anything and everything in between, all but what most had expected. With teams like the Cowboys disappearing into oblivion and the Vikings scrambling to save their mortal football lives, we see new teams like the Chiefs, Buccaneers, and Rams finding redemption in 2010.

Still there are quite a few of the expected names near the top of my weekly rankings, with the Giants, Falcons and Ravens leading the way. The Packers and Saints who had slipped a bit are finally starting to look like the dominant teams many expected to see early in the season.

With week 10 ready to start this Thursday, here’s how they rank;

Top 10

1. New York Giants (6-2): Even though their resume of opponents does not look impressive, the G-men have over the past several weeks running their win streak to five. At present little brother Eli and company could be the class of the NFC
2. Atlanta Falcons (6-2): Matt Ryan and company have the birds soaring with a 4-0 home record this seaosn, coupled with a tough run defense ranked 6th in the league the Falcons appear to be real contender in the NFC. Thursday night they will be tested against the Ravens.
3. Baltimore Ravens (6-2): The Ravens and Joe Flacco have got the offense rolling averaging nearly 29 points in their last four games (3-1 in that stretch). Flacco has been superb since week three tossing 11 touchdowns with just one pick.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2): The Steelers managed to hang on Monday night, but the North divisional matchups are always tough. With Big Ben in the saddle and the number four ranked defense overall, Pittsburgh looks like a favorite to take the AFC crown.
5. New York Jets (6-2): Their week nine win didn’t lack any dramatics, but it was far from impressive. However, their come-from-behind victory did show some resilience and maturity from the second year quarterback. It’s going to be a lot of fun watching quarterback Mark Sanchez in the second half.
6. New England Patriots (6-2): So much for being on top. There’s nothing like the student teaching the professor a trick or two, but you can bet Belichick and Brady will rebound and stay in the AFC hunt down the stretch.
7. New Orleans Saints (6-3): And just when you thought they were ready to relinquish their crown, here come Drew Brees and the Saints. After falling to 4-3, the Saints have responded with two consecutive and impressive wins. The Giants and Falcons better not stumble.
8. Green Bay Packers (6-3): They are probably the quietest 6-3 team you will see, although their defense has looked dominant the past two weeks. Rodgers was unstoppable last Sunday and if he gets it going, the NFC could be in trouble.
9. Philadelphia Eagles (5-3): With a healthy Vick under center, this team looks like a very dangerous team in the second half of the season, as evident with their impressive win on Sunday over the Colts. Are people in Philly asking, McNabb who?
10. Indianapolis Colts (5-3): The Colts suffered a tough road loss in hostile territory last Sunday, but with Manning at the helm they were in it all the way to the end. It’s been a slow start, but at 5-3 they are on tied for first in the South and will definitely be a player down the stretch.


The Rest of the league

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-3)
• Kansas City Chiefs (5-3)
• Chicago Bears (5-3)
• Tennessee Titans (5-3)
• Oakland Raiders (5-4)
• St. Louis Rams (4-4)
• Miami Dolphins (4-4)
• Washington Redskins (4-4)
• Jacksonville Jaguars (4-4)
• Houston Texans (4-4)
• Seattle Seahawks (4-4)
• San Diego Chargers (4-5)
• Minnesota Vikings (3-5)
• Cleveland Browns (3-5)
• Arizona Cardinals (3-5)
• San Francisco 49ers (2-6)
• Detroit Lions (2-6)
• Cincinnati Bengals (2-6)
• Denver Broncos (2-6)
• Carolina Panthers (1-7)
• Dallas Cowboys (1-7)
• Buffalo Bills (0-8)

THAT'S MY TAKE

November 6th, 2010

That's My Take

Mike Shanahan: Bad Move or Sending the Right Message

And just when you think you have seen it all, you see the unbelievable, the unimaginable, and the incomprehensible. When did you ever think you would see quarterback Donovan McNabb benched in the 4th quarter of a game that still hung in the balance and be replaced by Rex Grossman.

It’s hard enough to just imagine McNabb being benched in the first place. After all he’s an 11-year veteran that has led his team to four NFC Championships and one Super Bowl appearance. When you consider his credentials, you would figure McNabb would have lots of room for error.

And maybe such has been the case, when you consider….for lack of a better option he was replaced by Rex Grossman.

The Redskins have yet to turn the corner and suddenly become a force to reckon with in the NFC East division, but on paper it would seem they have a few of the pieces in place to contend. They are in fact in the hunt, so what makes this recent controversial move by head coach Mike Shanahan mind boggling is the timing.

With less than two minutes left in Sunday’s matchup against the Lions and with the game still in the balance Shanahan decided that it was time to make a change. It was a move that many analysts, commentators, fans, and those that watch the game have been scratching their heads about. Shanahan sent McNabb to the showers and brought in back-up quarterback Rex Grossman.

Not exactly the move anyone that understands the basic rules of football would expect and one that has led some to ask the basic question. Was this simply a “bad move” or was the Redskins head coach trying to send a message.

After watching the conclusion of that fiasco I found it very compelling to search the channels for the post game interviews and some answers. What I found were many offerings and suggestions, but all seeming to say the same thing, it just doesn’t make sense. Some were even livid and felt the move was a complete discredit to McNabb, his skills, and his accomplishments.

But there was one, one opinion and analysis that seemed to make complete sense and the simplicity of the answer is what makes me think it’s probably closet to the truth. Watching to the ESPN wrap up of Sunday’s games, I listened to analyst and former NFL quarterback, Trent Dilfer offer some answers that seemed fitting.

When you look at the Texan’s back up (Grossman) and their starting quarterback (McNabb), when would there ever be a time to make a switch. The only logical reason that made sense for Shanahan to bench McNabb against the Lions was to regain control of his veteran quarterback.

Leading up to the benching, it’s not like McNabb was doing everything right to endear himself to his head coach. Entering last weekend, the Redskins offense was ranked middle of the road and their 18.5 points per game were less than impressive. As the leader of the offense, a lot of its’ success or failure falls squarely on the shoulders of McNabb.

Breaking down the team’s performance last Sunday, the Redskins had only gained 11 first downs with McNabb under center and were an awful 2 of 13 on third down. With the game in hand leading 25-20 and just 4:40 on the clock, McNabb made a critical error throwing a pick to not only set up the go ahead score for the Lions, but pre-empt Shanahan’s decision to sit down his veteran quarterback.

Not having clear information, but simply from an observer’s perspective it was easy to see McNabb was not doing the job and his benching may have been more of an abrupt (and arguably deserved) punishment for poor play. The only factors in the entire saga that did not make a whole lot of sense were; one, the game was still in the balance with a real shot to win, and two, your back-up quarterback is Rex Grossman.

Knowing what I know, I don’t believe for a minute that McNabb was replaced for Grossman, but rather he was benched and unfortunately for Redskins fans and Shanahan the only option he could then turn to was Grossman.

His follow up post-game press conference had to be comments made that would support his decision making and offer some sensibilities to the process of his decision; of course no one was buying what he was selling. He’s certainly not going to tell the world, my child (quarterback) was bad and I gave him a timeout.

But without words, if we take a deep look is that not the message? This is the same topic that many analysts have been discussing for weeks concerning the quarterback situation in Minnesota. But it is a situation that it would appear the head coach is not able to be so bold. Where one falls short, is it really surprising to see a coach and personality like Mike Shanahan to be so bold to take his stand and make his point. In fact, I would argue that this is exactly something that Shanahan would do. We only need to look at the whole Haynesworth situation to realize.

So if McNabb was benched simply because he stunk or was not following the game plan or not doing it how Shanahan designed it, it was of no consequence that Grossman came in. Grossman was the only option available.

I don’t know if Shanahan’s message was received well, but I hardly think for a second that this was the right move, let alone a good one. The Redskins were 4-3 entering the contest and with the game still up for grabs you have to have your best players on the field. Even if McNabb was not on the same page, he’s got to be your guy on the field. Whatever disconnect existed on Sunday on the field, Monday morning you are meeting with him in the film room working it work.

By all accounts considering the Redskins did lose last weekend, it may have been a bad move, but only time will tell if the message sent was heard.

The Redskins will enjoy their bye this weekend, but when they return in week 10 to face the Eagles on Monday night you can be sure McNabb will be under center as usual. What will be interesting to follow, will be the effectiveness of McNabb passing and the Redskin’s offense as a whole. I don’t imagine we’ll see any future benching anytime soon or Shanahan making a move to Grossman as his starter (despite all the things that T.O. claimed in his show), but then again anything is possible.

If replacing McNabb was not a bad or wrong move, certainly bringing in Grossman can’t be the right one? Can it?

Just my take.

By David Ortega