HOW I SEE IT

September 24th, 2010, Friday

Philadelphia Eagles: Making All the Right (Vick) Moves

It is amazing being a fan and observer of the NFL. After watching the conclusion of Sunday’s games in week two you could see the sharks circling the Eagles camp and getting ready for blood in the water on Monday.

Back on Sunday Mike Vick had just completed his first start under center since the 2006 season and led the Eagles offense to its’ first win of this young 2010 season. For some this may not have exactly been considered a great achievement, but considering the road traveled by Vick and the fashion in which he completed his task on Sunday it was something.

It had seemed only out of necessity that the decision to start Mike Vick in week two was made as the then starter, Kevin Kolb (concussion) was not available. No harm no foul or so it seemed, but following Vick’s performance on the gridiron you just knew the same decision in the future would not be made as easy. After all, Kolb was the heir apparent and a big reason why the team chose to part ways with former starting quarterback Donovan McNabb.

Even in week one after the impressive display by Vick, it would have been a difficult decision to make had there been a chance Kolb was available, but as it was the switch to Vick was made easy and without criticism; Kolb as hurt and Vick was healthy.

As the Eagles entered the third week of the NFL season, it was unavoidable; they had a daunting task and difficult decision to make. With all due respect, a difficult decision; I hardly think so.

Back in week one Kolb entered the season as the team’s starter, but this was based on what? The kid did show some flashes of brilliance last year in a couple of starts and even this offseason he may have even impressed a few of the coaches with his knowledge and grasp of the offense, but what had he really done. He has hardly had any time to convince anyone that he is the real deal and ready to lead the Eagles to the next level.

I am not knocking the kid here, while he obviously possesses skill and talent whatever anyone thinks or believe’s at this time is just conjecture. He still has to go out there and prove it. I am sure the coaching staff has great confidence in his ability, but what in a league where winning now is a necessity it’s hard to overlook the obvious.

Against the Packers back in week one, Mike Vick entered the game in the second half and passed for 175 yards and tossed one touchdown. Vick also scampered his way to 103 yards rushing leading the Eagles offense to 17 second half points. It was vintage Vick using his legs and his arm to create offense and excitement. If anyone had any doubts about whether Vick was back or if he was capable of playing at a high level once again, in week two he removed all doubt. Against the Lions defense Vick was once again impressive passing for 284 yards with a pair of scores and another 37 yards on the ground.

With week three looming and Kolb healthy, it’s really not a difficult decision for the Andy Reid and the Eagles. After Sunday’ win you could already hear naysayers in disagreement with Reid’s proclamation that Kolb was his starter; how could they sit Vick? It was surprising to hear the announcement earlier this week because of the sudden change, but should it really have been a surprise?

It’s quite apparent that the Eagles can see what they have and what they will get with Vick, while Kolb is still a work in progress with upside and potential. The decision to make the change to Vick is the right move for now. The Eagles must win now and in six quarters they can see what is quite obvious; Vick gives them the best chance right now.

The Eagles offense is definitely a work in progress with an offensive line that is a classic patch work job. In two games the line has been through many changes due to injuries and one of the results has been shaky protection. The Eagles have allowed a league high 12 sacks (4 more than any other team) and both Kolb and Vick have sustained quite a bit of punishment; another reason that favors Vick in the pocket because of his athleticism and escape-ability.

It may seem hardly fair that the team has decided to abandon the Kolb era after just 10 passes, but this decision is less about what Kolb did or didn’t do and much more about what Vick has done, can do, and will do for this offense. In two games Vick has been efficient completing nearly 64% of his passes while leading the Eagles offense to 52 points. He has also passed for 459 yards, tossed three scores, and rushed for 140 yards (very positive and impressive numbers) in just six quarters of football this season.

Kolb may be getting shelved for the time being, but it shouldn’t be a step back in his progress. He has a strong grasp, confidence, and appears ready to step in at a moment’s notice. He presents a very attractive safety net for Andy Reid and the Eagles offense should this switch stumble in the future.

While there is sure to be a lot of dissension with this decision (along with favoritism) there is no doubt that Vick is the right move for the Eagles (for now).

By David Ortega

MY POWER RANKINGS (WK 2)

September 24th, 2010, Friday

My NFL Team Power Rankings
(Week Two)


Here's how I breakdown my top 10. The Packers with their strong passing game led by Aaron Rodgers and an aggressive defense led by second year linebacker Clay Matthews look like the class of the league at the moment. The Saints are still a favorite in the NFC, but after they struggled some last Monday night against the Niners they take a step down. An early surprise has to be the undefeated Steelers who can make it three in a row on with a win on the road Sunday against the Bucs; and they can only get better once Big Ben makes his return in week six. The Chiefs and Bucs are nice early stories this season, but you have to question their early soft schedule.

Here's how they rank;

Top 10

1. Green Bay Packers (2-0): The Packers take the top spot with complete balance. After two weeks Dom Caper's defense leads the NFL with 10 sacks and the offense is ranked 3rd in scoring.
2. New Orleans Saints (2-0): The Saints are the defending champs, but after a shaky Monday win on the road they need to rebound with a strong performance on Sunday.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (2-0): What is scary about the Steelers start is they are out of the gate fast with two wins without their starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. How good will they be when he returns?
4. Chicago Bears (2-0): In two games Jay Cutler and the Bears passing game has fired on all cylinders. Cutler has passed for 649 yards with five touchdown passes and has Da Bears sitting atop the North with a huge Monday night matchup with the 2-0 Packers.
5. Miami Dolphins (2-0): Quietly and relatively un-noticed head coach Tony Sparano has his club sitting alone atop the AFC East at 2-0 with a big intra-division clash with the Jets on Sunday.
6. Houston Texans (2-0): The Texans are one of the hottest teams and have an explosive offense, but their Achilles heel could be a suspect secondary ranked dead last in the NFL.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-0): One of the biggest surprises this season, but also a benefactor of a weak schedule. Both of their opponents this season have yet to win a single game.
8. Kansas City Chiefs (2-0): Another surprise this season. The Chiefs could benefit greatly from their fast start and a weak division, but a weak early schedule (opponents record is 1-3) could be misleading.
9. Indianapolis Colts (1-1): Manning and company ran into a buzz-saw in week one falling to the Texans, but rebounded strong last Sunday against the G-Men scoring 38 points.
10. New York Jets (1-1): After a sluggish week one loss to the Ravens on Monday night, Sanchise and Ryan rallied the troops for an impressive home opener victory over the Patriots.

The Rest of the league

• Atlanta Falcons (1-1)
• New England Patriots (1-1)
• San Diego Chargers (1-1)
• Cincinnati Bengals (1-1)
• Baltimore Ravens (1-1)
• Philadelphia Eagles (1-1)
• Washington Redskins (1-1)
• Jacksonville Jaguars (1-1)
• Denver Broncos (1-1)
• Tennessee Titans (1-1)
• Oakland Raiders (1-1)
• New York Giants
• Minnesota Vikings (0-2)
• San Francisco 49ers (0-2)
• Dallas Cowboys (0-2)
• Seattle Seahawks
• Arizona Cardinals
• Carolina Panthers (0-2)
• Detroit Lions (0-2)
• Cleveland Browns (0-2)
• St. Louis Rams (0-2)
• Buffalo Bills (0-2)

Check back every week for my “NFL Team Power Rankings”
By David Ortega

MONDAY NIGHT HEADLINES

Monday Night Headlines

March 29th, 2010 11:07pm PST

Monday Night Headlines

Parker wants out of Pittsburgh...
According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the Steelers’ running back Willie Parker wants out of the Steel city. With Rashard Mendenhall the new starter in the backfield, Parker is apparently not content with his new role as a backup. Parker is only 29 and should have plenty left in the tank although his durability may come into question. And even though he is more than capable of being a productive back in the right system, it doesn't sound like it will be in Pittsburgh.

Sproles reports for voluntary workouts....
After receiving a high tender from the Chargers as a restricted free agent, running back Darren Sproles appears ready to move forward. His attendance for the team's voluntary offseason training is considered a positive sign. With LT vacated, Sproles has not been christened the team's new starter, but he will be expected to be more involved in the offense in 2010 (if he signs his tender).

McNabb to Oakland?...
The rumors won't stop and now it sounds like according to ESPN, the Raiders are the leading candidate to trade for quarterback Donovan McNabb. Apparently the Raiders are willing to give up the 39th overall pick and pick up the quarterback's hefty salary and included $6.2 million roster bonus (on May 5). It sounds like the Raiders appear willing, but there has not been any indication that McNabb wants to be a Raider. With Oakland interested in trading for a quarterback, does this mean JaMarcus Russell has worn out his welcome in the bay area?

Weekend Wire....

The Steelers re-signed back up quarterback Charlie Batch to a two year deal. Batch has been with the club for eight seasons, seeing little action (two passes since 2007). Batch will likely have to compete for back up duty with quarterback Dennis Dixon.

While things for the most part have been quiet in Dallas this offseason, team owner Jerry Jones has not been shy to share his thoughts. Last week Jones indicated the team could be considering making a switch in the backfield, moving running back Felix Jones into the top spot. Jones has showed more explosion and big play capability last season (four plays of 40 or more yards), while Barber was slowed by injuries.

MONDAY NIGHT HEADLINES

Monday Night Headlines
March 22nd, 2010 8:07pm PST

Monday Night Headlines

Jets re-sign WR Braylon Edwards
The New York Jets inked wide receiver Braylon Edwards to a one year deal on Monday. Edwards caught 35 passes, including four for scores in 11 starts in 2009 for the Jets. With a full off-season of work with quarterback Mark Sanchez, expectations for 2010 will be much greater.

Washington missing from Workouts
With the signing of veteran running back LaDanian Tomlinson, there has been some talk of the possibility of the Jets trading running back Leon Washington. A restricted free agent, Washington has yet to sign his one year tender of S1.7 million and was absent from the team's voluntary offseason workout program. While there has yet to be any heated talk of trade, with Washington apparently unhappy with his contract status don't be surprised if that changes soon.

Could T.O. be landing soon?
The 36 year old free agent wide receiver left Cincinnati without a deal, but according to his agent Drew Rosenhaus, there are three teams interested and a landing spot could be found soon. No teams have been linked, but the Raiders have been rumored to have interest. If Oakland is not in the T.O. sweepstakes, then based on need, it could make sense that Chicago, Carolina, and even San Francisco could turn out to be the interested candidates.

Weekend Wire....

The Dolphins re-signed 3rd year wide receiver Davone Bess to a one year deal. Bess caught a team high 76 passes in 2009, but only found the end-zone twice. He only started two games, but is expected to move into a starting role in 2010.

The Cardinals signed unrestricted free agent linebacker Joey Porter on Friday to a three year deal reportedly worth $17.5 million. The veteran linebacker is entering his 12th season in the league and looks to help bolster the Cards pass rush with his 92 career sacks (including nine in 2009).

The Lions signed linebacker Landon Johnson to a one year deal this past weekend. Johnson spent his first four seasons (2004-2007) with the Bengals averaging nearly 100 total tackles per season. Following the 2007 season Johnson spent two seasons with the Panthers starting only three games and missing seven games.


Recent NFL Moves, Signings, and Trades...
(Since the start of Free Agency)

Just getting caught up with some of the most notable transactions thus far in free agency;

3/22-Jets ink one year deal with WR Braylon Edwards.

3/19-Cardinals ink a deal with OLB Joey Porter; a three year deal worth $17.5 million.

3/18-Eagles cut WR Kevin Curtis.

3/17-Cardinals signed QB Derek Anderson to two year deal.

3/17-Redskins signed QB Rex Grossman to a one year deal.

3/16-Bills ink two year deal with LB Andra Davis.

3/16-Titans re-sign TE Bo Scaife to one year contract.

3/16-Eagles signed RB Mike Bell to one year contract.

3/15-Broncos cut QB Chris Sims.

3/14-Jets ink two year deal with RB LaDanian Tomlinson.

3/14-Broncos trade for QB Brady Quinn, sending RB Peyton Hillis and two draft picks to the Browns.

3/10-Bengals ink four year deal with WR Antonio Bryant.

3/10-Ravens re-sign WR Derrick Mason to two year contract.

3/5-Ravens trade for WR Anquan Boldin (sending 3rd and 4th round 2010 picks to Cardinals. Boldin signs four year extension with Ravens.

MY POWER RANKINGS (WEEK 13)

December 2nd, 2009 10:37pm PST

My Power Rankings

(Updated prior to Thanksgiving games)

1. (1.) New Orleans (11-0): The Saints buried the Patriots on Monday night on both sides of the ball. Brees and the offense overwhelmed the Pat's defense and Brady was never able to get going. The Saints looked destined.

2. (2.) Indianapolis (11-0): The Colts do one thing, just win with Peyton's arm. Peyton Manning has made an art out of winning, even if it doesn't look artistic a not so pretty win counts the same. Right now Peyton has an outside shot at Marino's record for passing yards in a season; he's on pace to pass for 4,967-yards.

3. (3.) Minnesota (10-1): The common theme among the top teams in the league; great quarterback play. The Vikings have one of the greatest, but did anyone expect to see Favre play this well; 24 touchdowns, 69.3 completion percentage, only three picks and a passer rating of 112.1 (ranks second behind Brees).

4. (4.) Cincinnati (8-3): The Bengals have yet to resemble the best team in the AFC, but going undefeated in one of the toughest divisions they have to be considered. Quietly the Bengals defense has emerged as one of the toughest this season allowing on 15 points per games, which ranks number one.

5. (6.) San Diego (8-3): Don't look now, but one of last season's forgotten stories has re-emerged as one of this season legitimate contenders. The Chargers have reeled off six straight wins and are easily one of the more dangerous teams as tne playoffs near.

6. (8.) Dallas (8-3): It was only a few weeks ago many critics were getting ready to write off Romo and the Cowboys winners of six of their last seven. Since their week four loss to Denver quarterback Tony Romo has played exceptional throwing 13 touchdowns to only three picks.

7. (10.) Philadelphia (7-4): The Eagles and quarterback Donovan McNabb have not been as dominant this season, but with so many weapons they continue to keep post season aspirations alive. The Eagles ranked 7th in the league in scoring this season with nearly 27 points per game.

8. (5.) New England (7-4): The Patriots may look down after losing big to the Saints, but with the leagues 4th ranked offense they are far from out. With Brady leading the second ranked passing offense, the Pats will still be one of the most feared entering the postseason.

9. (7.) Arizona (7-4): Like the Patriots the Cardinals looke well on their way to making the post season and despite their recent loss (minus Warner), they will still be a very dangerous team in the playoffs.

10. (NR) Green Bay (7-4): The Packers are one of the recent surprise teams to re-enter the post season conversations. By winning their last three games the Packers are now 7-4 and in contention for a wild-card spot.

By David Ortega

Check back every week for more of my "Power Rankings!”

MY NFL HEADLINES: WEEK 13

December 1st, 2009 8:37pm PST

My NFL Headlines

Broncos find form again

After staring the season with a six game winning streak the Broncos found themselves on the wrong end of a four game losing streak entering their Thanksgiving matchup with the Giants. Thanksgiving came more in the form of Christmas for the Broncos when their Thursday night matchup concluded. McDaniels and company were filled with much cheer following their 26-6 victory over the Giants. The Broncos were impressive on both sides of the ball totalling 373 yards of offense while limiting the Giants to only 267 yards; very similar to their 6-0 start.

Titans rely on the arm of VY
The have the NFL's leading rusher in Chris Johnson (1,396-yards) was not needed against the Cardinals in week 12, although he did post a hefty buck-fifty (150-yards) on the ground Sunday. Tennessee was led by their former number one draft pick Vince Young who not only led the team to its' 5th straight victory, but passed for a scintilating 387-yards and a score. His Sunday performance culminated with a heroic 99-yard drive that ended with a 10-yard game-winning touchdown pass. Young is now 23-11 as a starter in his career and has won his last nine straight starts.

Bolts keep charging
The San Diego Chargers continue to enjoy their residence atop the AFC West division and on Sunday they continued their dominance. Led by quarterback Philip Rivers (317 yards, 2-touchdown passes) and running back LaDanian Tomlinson (2-rushing touchdowns) the Chargers blitzed the Chiefs 43-14. The Bolts defense also came to play forcing four turnovers and limiting the opponents to only 180-yards passing. The Chargers are clearly in control of the West and with a six game win streak look to be one of the hot teams heading toward the post-season.

Colts persevere once again
It never matters if it's pretty or not, a win is a win; just ask the 11-0 Colts. After week 12 Peyton Manning and company found a way to get in the win column once again. Trailing big in the first half 17-0, Manning and the Colts offense stayed the course by on four drives in the second half, which included 28 unanswered points. Manning passed for 244 yards and threw three touchdowns to lead the cause on offense, but a defensive touchdown scored by linebacker Clint Session may have proven to be the difference. The biggest difference was the tale of two halves; after surrendering 20 points in the first half the Colts defense held the Texans in check except for a late meaningless touchdown once the game was pretty much decided. The Colts may be living on the edge, but with both offense and defense contributing they will be tough to stop in the post season.

Vikings riding the arm of Favre
The Vikings have not chamged their philosophy at all this season. In their last four games (all wins) the Vikings are averaging 34 points per game and have scored 12 touchdowns by pass. In the same span they have run the ball 125 times and thrown the ball 134 times. Favre has only been sacked four times in the last four games, so when he is not pressured he's incredibly effective and the offense is incredibly productive. The Vikings offense has Adrian Peterson's legs to carry them, but right now they are riding Favre's arm; 12-touchdowns, 1,193-yards, and 136 points scored in their last four wins!

Saints are unstoppable

It was billed to be one of the biggest matchups this season and it was certainly hyped that way, but it didn't take long for Drew Brees and the Saints to take the sails out of the competitive spirit of this Monday night matchup. The Patriots struck first, but the Saints struck loudest and with more frequency. In the end, the Saints proved they do have a complete team; a high powered offense that rang up 38 points and 480 net yards and a defense that sacked Tom Brady twice, forced three turnovers and held one of the leagues highest scoring teams to only 17 points. Even if the Saints don't finish the regular season undefeated, they look like the perfectly built team to make a post season run!

By David Ortega

Check back every week for more of my “NFL Headlines!”

MY POWER RANKINGS

November 26th, 2009 8:37pm PST


My Power Rankings
(Updated prior to Thanksgiving games)

1. New Orleans (10-0): The Saints have used a balanced mix of their big play offense and an opportunistic defense to remain undefeated, but Monday will prove to be their biggest test this season.

2. Indianapolis (10-0): The Colts seem to enjoy playing with fire, taking both of their last two matchups down the wire. In week eight only a wide left field goal attempt by Texan's kicker Kris Brown spared the Colts a defeat. If Manning and the boys hope to avoid disaster a third time, they'd better not let this one stay close.

3. Minnesota (9-1): In many circles some may have the Vikings actually ranked higher. There is no question over the past several weeks no team is playing better than Minnesota. In their last three wins the Vikes are outscoring their opponents by average 33-15.

4. Cincinnati (7-3): The Bengals have had somewhat of a wacky season. In 2009 they have defeated both the Ravens and the Steelers twice and they could very easily be 9-1; and by all rights should be except for a flukie play in week one and a fumble in week 10 against them darn Raiders.

5. New England (7-3): Despite their loss to the Colts a couple of weeks ago, with the way that Tom Brady is now playing the Patriots will be one of the most feared AFC teams heading toward the playoffs. With all of the anticipation, Monday night's matchup will be classic even just after the coin toss.

6. San Diego (7-3): The Chargers were more than likely hardly the topic of the NFL post season after their week six loss to the Broncos that dropped them to 2-3. Well that was five weeks ago and five wins later, you have to start mentioning Rivers and the San Diego gang as one of the better teams in the AFC.

7. Arizona (7-3): Whether people would like to admit it or not, last year's fluke is proving to be anything but. The Cardinals are winning the games they should and when healthy Warner still looks like the gunslinger that took this team to the NFC title game a year ago.

8. Dallas (7-3): Prior to their Thanksgiving matchup with the Raiders the boys from Texas had earn themselves the top spot in the NFC East. With a win on Thursday, believe it or not Romo and company keep inching just a little closer to the post season.

9. Pittsburgh (6-4): The struggling Steelers are in danger of falling further behind the Bengals with a tough matchup this week against the Ravens and possibly no Big Ben.

10. Philadelphia (6-4): The Eagles have had their lumps this season, but without a sustained running game and no Westbrook, how far can head coach Andy Reid ride McNabbs arm. This week's divisional matchup with the Redskins won't be a walk in the park.


By David Ortega Check back every week for more of my "Power Rankings!”