It’s Still The Economy ……. But You’re Not Stupid …..

It’s Still The Economy ……….But You’re Not Stupid

Well we’re now on the eve of the 2009-10 season with regard to the NFL’s scheduled play.Now as we’re in an economic downturn and all is rife in terms of revenues gleaned for a number of franchises around the league.One can only surmise that as the season unfolds and the progresses a number of games will almost certainly be blacked out. In saying this,one has to remember that in order for games to be televised by the broadcast networks. They in essence have to be sold out in terms of a capacity audience in attendance of those games.

NFL Commissioner , Roger Goodell. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Richard Carlson ....................

But it ought to be apparent to a number of people out there that during the preseason, there were a number of seats empty in the stands. If that’s a precursor as to what we ought to expect. Then we’re in for a big surprise once the season commences. It’s plain to see that the league and a number of franchises are about to be in for a torrid time. The effect was there for all to see and it will become glaringly magnified.

Teams such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, San Diego Chargers, Detroit Lions,Washington Redskins,Jacksonville Jaguars,New Orleans Saints,Carolina Panthers,Oakland Raiders,San Francisco 49ers and Buffalo Bills have had a hard time selling game day tickets.Never-mind the fact that the PSL’s for season ticket holders have understandably declined. But that’s a story for another day. Or so,the NFL would have us believe.In light of the fact that there’s the likelihood that at least 20% of the NFL fixtures could well be blacked out.

Goodell seen here at Wasington and Lee University wherein a symposium was held on leadership and sports.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, has declined to change the rules governing the televising of the games. There’s no denying that the NFL as a business is a very profitable sport for all involved. From the franchises, to the players and the game’s patrons in terms of their corporate sponsors. With that being said and in light of this downturn. One has to reason that should the US economy not show signs of turning around. Then the league will have to deal with a very acute situation.

At present it doesn’t appear to be on Commissioner Goodell’s agenda.And anything that appears to damage the league’s image as to it being beyond reproach. It’s clear that Goodell will appear to make that its image remains in-tact. And as we all know,when it comes to the NFL …’image is everything or is it inconsequential that it can mean absolutely nothing at all ‘ ? But rest assured that once the league and its franchises realizes how entrenched this downturn is. They’ll have to review their position. One can surmise that in many markets,a number of teams will seek the patronage of local businesses in order to make sure that a number of tickets won’t go unsold. Whether or not this will work for a number of franchises remains to be seen.

The NFL much likes its counterparts in the NBA ,NHL and MLB would like to paint you a rosy picture as to the health of their respective sports.If you doubt my word then listen quite clearly to the statements that’ve been made by their respective commissioners. Consider this also, the NBA over the last decade alone has borrowed in excess of $1.6 billion in order maintain a healthy financial base for a number of its franchises.This last year alone, a further $200million was borrowed and made available to 14 franchises around the league. Commissioner,David Stern of the NBA in his own words stated “…… that in no way ought this to be considered a financial bailout of these franchises.” Well, if it smells like a rat and the stench is so odious then it can only be surmised as being it being a rat. Or could Stern, be trying to sell us a bill of goods on that score ? There’s no need to feel stupid as it’s just the way that the various governing bodies tend to insult the intelligence of the fans. Just as the federal government tends to do the very same thing along with the vast majority of the members of Congress.

Courtesy of The New York Times:

TV Blackouts Possible For NFL

By Richard Sandomir

Reduced season ticket sales for some NFL teams could result in a greater than usual local television blackouts.

“It’s all part of the challenges we’re seeing in the economy and that our clubs are going through,” Roger Goodell told reporters at the Washington Redskins’ training camp in Ashburn, Va. “Our clubs have been working hard in the off-season to create other ways to try to get people in the stadiums and to have policies that are a little more flexible,and hopefully, they’re going to pay dividends for us”.

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Now comes the hard part in terms of what the NFL and it franchises will inevitably have to do.Either the commissioner, acquiesces to the wishes of many of the franchises and changes the rules governing the blackout of games. Or they’ll indeed have to move ahead with things being as they are. As to the ultimate outcome of this all, your guess just like anyone else’s will be subject to a great deal of debate and conjecture. The NFL tends to march to the beat of its own drum and rarely does it like listen to anyone outside its sphere of influence. And at this moment in time that includes the fans, as well as the broadcast networks.

A number of franchises around the league are in somewhat of a tenuous situation. And with the 2010-11 season about to bring a great deal of unrest , should neither the league and the NFLPA not be able to resolve their differences as to the renegotiating of the collective bargaining agreement. Then, all hell is liable to break loose on a number of fronts for the National Football League.

Certainly at this moment in time there have been a number of issues that Goodell has chosen to address head on. Merely, because from a PR standpoint those that reflect the image of the league as to its overall popularity. In the eyes of the public as far he’s concerned they’ll look upon it that he’s doing a good job. The thing however, I find with Goodell , is that he’s only too willing to pick and choose the battles that he feels he can win. Especially, if it is to his advantage and that of the league’s in terms of perception.

These are indeed some very trying times for all of the major professional sports. But it’d be remiss to think that the economic problems that’ve began to test the resolve of those sports isn’t just being felt at the professional level. As it is now , at the collegiate and varsity level . A number of programs are either making drastic budgetary cuts. Or in-fact doing away with several sports altogether. Never-mind the fact this also leads to further hardships in terms of there being layoffs amongst employees at varying levels within an athletic department. But such are the vagaries that real sacrifices have to be made. In the case of the NFL , one has to wonder what it is that Goodell and his hierarchy are failing to see at this juncture ? Or could it be that his mind may well be elsewhere at present ?

Courtesy of The Washington Post :

Goodell adresses Labor Issues

By Jason Reid Redskins Insider

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell paid a visit to Redskins Park on Tuesday morning. As the team began practice, Goodell chatted on the sidelines with owner Dan Snyder, executive vice president of football operations Vinny Cerrato, Coach Jim Zorn and former quarterback Joe Theismann. Rookies Brian Orakpo and Jeremy Jarmon stopped by.

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It certainly hasn’t helped if the alleged rumors that’ve surfaced are true. That in-fact Goodell and former NFLPA President Troy Vincent acted inappropriately with regard to a clandestine meeting held between he and Goodell. Wherein, it is now being alleged that privileged information was passed between the two as to the union negotiations. If there’s any veracity to this at all , then it clearly smacks in the face of the somewhat pristine image and persona that Goodell tries to portray. And clearly that image when one looks at the league’s members and their behavior as of late. Then there’s not much really to differentiate between that of the commissioner and his very own members . And their belief that they can do as they please without there being any recourse.

Courtesy of The New York Times :

Government Investigates Players Union On Collusion Charge

By Judy Battista

The National Football League Players Association is under investigation to determine whether or not some of its leaders tried to collude with league officials by holding secret meetings with them to discuss labor issues without the knowledge of top union leadership.

The investigation, being conducted by the Department of Labor, was revealed as part of a lawsuit filed against the union , by a union employee, Mary Moran, and first reported by Sports Business Journal. According to documents filed in District of Columbia Superior Court on Thursday, and obtained by the Associated Press,Moran provided investigators with that former union president Troy Vincent and other union members met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and the Houston Texans’ owner Robert McNair, to provide the league access to confidential union information.

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Sleepless In Seattle ……… Who Knew ……..

After a long and distinguished career in the NFL. Mike Holmgren retired from coaching and handed over the reins to his understudy, Jim Mora Jr , as coach of the Seattle Seahawks .

Mike Holmgren (right) on the sidelines with his then assistant coach Jim Mora Jr . Mora now takes the helm as the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks. picture appears courtesy of Icon SMI / Matt A. Brown .........................

Holmgren’s predigree alone assures him that he’ll be a first ballot Hall of Famer when he’s due for enshrinement in Canton, Ohio. One only has to look down the list coaches that’ve learned under the auspices of the man. And who can doubt his prowess as a coach ? The success he had with the Green Bay Packers alone, assures us of this. And the fact that he brought about as to the change of environment with regard to the Seahawks and the fan-dom there. It brings about some semblance for the franchise that for much of its existence has been mired in mediocrity. That being said, even with the ownership of Microsoft co-founder and multi-billionaire magnate Paul Allen , in tow. The one thing that’s still missing from the team’s trophy cabinet, is that of the Vince Lombardi trophy to signify the franchise’s wining of the Superbowl.

Seattle Seahawks' owner Paul Allen (left) seen here alongside team CEO Tod Leiweke on the sidlines at the end of a game against the Baltimore Ravens in December 2007 . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ John Froschauer ....................

The one thing that can be said of the Seattle Seahawks’ franchise. It is that they can be either be consistently consistent as to their regular season travails. Or they can at times perform very much like the most inept franchise in all of the NFL. Now , not wanting to question Holmgren’s decision as to his successor. I was as surprised as any , when it was announced that Jim Mora Jr would be taking over the reins of this team. Albeit , what little success he’d achieved as a coach was with the now discredited and disgraced Michael Vick . When both were taking the Atlanta Falcons to their most recent of successes. But as we all know, when it all began to spiral out of control. Mora was nowhere to be seen , as he and the then disgraced star were basically like rats on a sinking ship. Mora was fired and as we all have seen , Vick chose to eschew his talents elsewhere.

For the Seahawks and the wilderness of the NFC West , which they play in. It has to be said that the division is one of the less endearing divisions in all of the NFL. From the hapless San Francisco 49ers , to the even more absurd St Louis Rams and a now resurgent Arizona Cardinals . It has to be said that whatever interest is taken in the division is merely from the standpoint of their fans and their own perceived interest. And that of the interest shown by the broadcast networks.

Coming off an immensely disappointing 4-12 season in 2008. The Seahawks hope to rebound and acquit themselves well in the ‘09 season. And if nothing else , the return of Matt Haselbeck along with the acquisition of T. J. Houshmandzadeh and recently acquired free agent Edgerrin James ought to stand them in good stead. That being said , the team’s fortunes just won’t lie in how they acquit themselves on the field of play. But primarily with the astuteness shown by Mora as a coach. I for one sincerely doubt that he is indeed the right man for the job. But the Seahawks have made their decision. And they will have to live and die by it .

Seahawks' quarterback Matt Hasselbeck makes a pass to tight end John Carlson during the second half of the team's preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs in Kansas City, Missouri, . The Seahawks would defeat the Chiefs 14-10 in the game. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Reed Hoffmann .....................

On first appearance when one looks at this Seattle Seahawks’ roster. You can clearly see that this team ought to have fared a great better than it has done over the years. They’ve a bevy of players that’d be the desire of a number of teams around the league. But seemingly they’ve never been able to put together a consistent string of results and then play themselves into contention when it really mattered the most.Either that came from Holmgren’s own failings as a coach. Or one could attribute it to the fact that was no real leadership on the field of play. Even if a team is beset by injuries , one would still expect for them to play with a great deal of zeal. Being straightforward in that regard it may well have been a mixture of both. It may well be a poor excuse as to what ails the franchise. But make of it , what you will.

Courtesy of Yahoo Sports and AP :

Seattle releases 4 players

RENTON,Wash-(AP) The Seattle Seahawks have let go of four players ahead of the deadline to cut the roster to 75.

Seattle waived defensive tackle Kevin Brown, fullback Dan Curran, linebacker Shane Simmons and tight end John Tereshinski. The Seahawks made the moves Sunday , one day after their 14-10 preseason win at Kansas City.

Teams have until Tuesday to trim rosters to 75 players. The final cutdown to 53 players has to be done by Sept. 5.

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If there’s one thing that we’ve come to learn about Holmgren coached teams. It was that they were always proficient on both sides of the ball. That being said their failings of late were in particular on the offensive side of the ball. The loss of Pro Bowler , Matt Hasselbeck for much of last season , basically left the cupboard bare in terms of a reliable backup. And given the fact that watching Seneca Wallace on the field of play, was in essence very much akin to watching a doe being hunted by a pride of lions. He was very much caught in the proverbial set of headlights as usual . And he acquitted himself , thus.

If the Seahawks are to get back, whereby they’re to be a dominant force to be reckoned with in the NFC West as wll as the NFC as a whole. Then this season, they’ll have to step up their game and prove to the rest of the league as well as their fans . That they’re rightfully back in their customary place, as one of the top teams in the NFC and a force to be reckoned with. If anything , they’ve been very much the title of this piece . ….. Sleepless In Seattle ….Who Knew ?

C-R-E-A-M ….. Cash Rules Everything Around Me ……………..

I’ll say this for the Denver Broncos , their off-season and preseason incidents. It’s been thoroughly entertaining and given the fans there in Denver far more excitement. Than they’ve witnessed on the field , as to their competitiveness over the last two years. The NFL and its franchises has a venerable way of keeping its fans interested in the sport year round. Be it the fact , that it now has its own network (NFL Network), which gives it even greater visibility. And also from the mere fact that its very own coverage is far superior to that of the broadcast networks and cable outlets that are pitted against it , in terms of the coverage.

Broncos' wide receiver Brandon Marshall seen here at the team's training facility in Englewood , Co,. The player was today suspended by the team for an as yet to be determined period. This may well lead to player being traded as has been his want for much of the off and preseason. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ David Zabulowiski .............

That being said the episodes that’ve unfolded as to the off-season and preseason concerning the Broncos have made for great soap opera. The departure of Jay Cutler to the Chicago Bears and the fact that Broncos’ coach, Josh McDaniels made his presence felt, with his actions. The fact that those actions were very much in the vein of a tornado sweeping through a rural community laying waste everywhere. The destruction and its aftermath are now easily explainable. He got his wish , as he now has all that he wants. Never-mind the fact that by appearance alone, the team may well now be worse off than it was before the departure of Cutler. I can hardly envision that the addition of Kyle Orton and with Chris Simms as his backup , that this Broncos’ team will send quakes and shivers down the spines of the Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers or indeed the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West . But such are the vagaries of the NFL , that when there’s no drama or intrigue within its midst. The fans’ attention is drawn elsewhere as they may well feel that it is becoming somewhat tedious and monotonous.

Broncos' starting quarterback Kyle Orton seen here playing against the Seattle Seahawks in a preseason game played at Qwest Field Seattle , Washington. The Seahawks would go on to defeat the Broncos 27-13 . picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Otto Greule Jr. ...............................

McDaniels is now faced with the task of trying to bring back the glory days of John Elway and Terrell Davis . When the franchise reigned supreme over the NFL with its back to back Superbowl triumphs. The fans long for it and yearn for it with a zeal that borders on being ravenous. They’ve been starved of that sort of success for over a decade. Whether or not McDaniels is the man to lead the franchise out of their rut remains to be seen. The fact of the matter is , he’s off to a very tenuous start. And to top it all , he’s had the unique distinction of running a Pro bowl class quarterback out of town. Albeit, that the lines of communication between the two bordered on being like watching two young kindergarten boys having a fight in a sandbox. Neither was able to land a meaningful punch on one another. However, it led to the team owner, Pat Bowlem , having to intervene and making somewhat of a rash decision.

Chris Simms backup quarterback of the Broncos hands the ball off to running back Darrius Walker in the game against the Seahawks . picture appears courtesty of ap/photo/ Elaine Thompson ..........................

And if you thought the craziness had been abated. Then look no further than what’s said to be happening within the Broncos’ preseason . Wide receiver , Brandon Marshall , now appears to be in McDaniels’ doghouse . The player’s own off-season turmoil we thought was over. Considering that he’s been in trouble with law enforcement on numerous occasions as to his behavior. Several assault complaints have been filed against the player over the last 18 months . And seemingly, the hierarchy of the NFL was nowhere to be seen . But that asides , it has been the player’s constant whining as to the fact that he feels disrespected and the franchise’s failure to acquiesce to his demands for a trade. It makes the situation within the organization unpalatable for its fans. But then again what’s new ? It’s not as if this wasn’t the norm for any player within the NFL who feels that they’re due in one form or another when it comes to their own perceived self importance . There’s no I in team but when it comes to playing as part of a team. Then ” it’s all about me ” as the saying goes. And so , we’re led to believe that this is merely about Marshall wanting some respect as he sees it. Pardon me , for not understanding his position. But what have you done for the Broncos lately ?

Jim Mora Jr (left) of the Seattle Seahawks greets his opposite number Josh McDaniels of the Denver Broncos after the game. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 27-13 in the game played at Qwest Field in Seattle, Wa,. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Elaine Thompson ..........................

Courtesy of Yahoo Sports and AP:

Denver Broncos suspend receiver Brandon Marshall

Englewood , Colo, (AP) Pro bowl receiver Brandon Marshall openly unhappy with the Denver Broncos , was suspended by the team Friday for unspecified “detrimental” conduct. The club did not say in its 15 word statement how long the suspension would last.

Marshall has asked for a new contract or trade and has acknowledged that he hasn’t learned new coach Josh McDaniels’ playbook. He was held out of last Sunday’s preseason game at Seattle.

During Wednesday’s warmups, Marshall walked while the rest of the team ran. He punted the ball away instead of handing it to a ball boy and swatted a pass thrown to him. His actions were caught on video and broadcast by KMGH-TV.

Marshall told ESPN on Thursday that he wasn’t trying to force a trade through insubordination but frustration got the best of him.

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It’s strange to hear the opinions of former NFL players who state what a joy is to play the game and be around teammates that are equally like minded when it comes to achieving the same goal. Funnily enough, you’ll never hear one actually come out and assert that there’s never any turmoil within the locker room. They’d have you believe that within their world there’s always a camaraderie there. I’ve always maintained that if you want to see true camarderie then you won’t see it in its purest form on the field of competitive play. The only time one will ever see it is through the eyes of a combat soldier. There and only then would you actually see and know what true camaraderie is all about ! And having served in the military and been in a combat arena . I know of what I speak. When your life is on the line you can only count on that of those who are at your very side at the moment when everything is heightened and danger is within your midst. Not so , for a bunch of prissy , hissy-fit throwing bunch of overpaid primadonna athletes !

One can opine as to what may well lie ahead for the Broncos this season. But with there now being far more action happening off the field than anything productive having been yet produced on it. You can only but wonder whether or not McDaniels can live up to the hype of offensive genius and enfant-terrible , who cut his teeth with the New England Patriots , under the auspices of their coach, Bill Belichick.

It’s been one thing to reek havoc just as you start your first managerial tenure. But it’s certainly another when you’ve now got to quieten down the quells of mutiny and in-order within an organization that in part you created to begin with. That being said, the apparent relationship between McDaniels and Marhsall though not yet dead. It may well have been irretrievably broken at this juncture. With the player now having been suspended for a yet to be determined period. It’ll be interesting to see the lines of communication being made and how it is all being demarcated.

McDaniels can ill afford to go through another tumultuous situation at this juncture. And at the same time, Brandon Marshall for all of his apparent abilities. He’s now making himself something of a pariah within the NFL. His perceived talent is one thing , but it has been his off the field baggage and tendency to be just about himself that may well scare some teams off when it comes to acquiring the player. Marshall would have you believe that from the outset it has never been about the money. But in actuality he’s done very little to persuade us otherwise.

It’s always been about the C-R-E-A-M …… ” Cash Rules Everything Around Me .” As if anything else ever really mattered !

ESPN The MAG…Has Lost All Credibility (Part 1)

Today, I came home to ESPN The MAG and I saw the most disturbing story in Magazine, Blog, and Newspaper history.

It was an NFL story… a NFL Prediction story. Boy,was it a piece of work. I’ll start off with the playoff outlook. (For the record, this was made after the Eagles and Vikings got new QB’s.)

AFC:

• North: Steelers
• South: Colts
• East: Pats
• West: Chargers
• Wild Card: Jags
• Wild Card: Ravens

NFC

• North: Bears
• South: Panthers
• East: Giants
• West: Seahawks
• Wild Card: Eagles
• Wild Card: Vikings

 Superbowl:

• Game: Chargers vs Giants
• Winner: Chargers

Chargers…a little unexpected to say the least. The outlook lacks teams like the Titans and the ‘Cards. They also have the Seahawks as a Divisional Champ. I don’t see where they are getting the numbers to back those decisions. Still, this is no where near the crazyest calls we’ll see.

NFC East

• Giants: 11-5
• Eagles: 9-7
• Cowboys: 8-8
• Redskins: 8-8

They have the division as Second toughest. This is the first time in years that I’ve seen Cowboys not be overrated – dare I say it…they may be UNDERRATED. They have the “NFL’s best roster” at 9-7…Giants, however short the may be at Wideout, are picked as Champs with a 11-5 record.

NFC North

• Bears: 11-5
• Vikings: 9-7
• Packers: 7-9
• Lions: 5-11

Wow, 5 wins for the team with new “Fiercer” logo. I have to say this is one of the lowest projects I’ve seen for the Packers. Obiously, The MAGdoesn’t see Favre making any difference at all. The division’s ranking is 4th best……WOW…..

NFC  South

•  Panthers: 9-7
• Saints: 8-8
• Falcons: 7-9
• Bucs: 7-9

Hey, ESPN, you do realize the Falcons have Matt Ryan(Offensive Rookie of the Year), RoddyWhite(Pro-Bowler and Franchise record holder), Michael Turner(2008’s 2ndleading rusher behind AP), and Tony Gonzalez(The best Tight End ever and an easy HOFer). Here’s another INSANE pick…the NFC South is picked LAST by The Magin divisional strength -Absoulutly outragous.

NFC West

• Seahawks: 10-6
• Rams: 8-8
• ‘Cards: 6-10
• 49ers: 6-10

Rams over ‘Cards……WHY? The Seahawks….last year I would completly agree with this but this ‘09 and I’m not buyin’ it. But still….Rams over Cardinals…….

Be sure to catch Part 2!

Oh To Be A Cleveland Browns’ Fan …..Who’s Laughing ? Shame On You !

I can only surmise that there’s some dark plot going on as the Cleveland Browns’ two quarterbacks , Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn , systematically fight it out, to see who’ll become the team’s starter. That being said the Browns’ travails as of late haven’t been all that empirical. Their long suffering fans have had , their ups and downs. More downs, than ups, one would dare to say , over the last decade. But such are the vagaries when it comes to the National Football League .

Defensive end Robaire Smith(left) of the Cleveland Browns and the Detroit Lions Daunte Culpepper leave the field after their preseason game in Cleveland, Oh. The Browns would defeat the Lions 27-10 in the game. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Mark Duncan ...................

And with coach Eric Mangini , now set to take over the reins after his less than auspicious tenure with the New York Jets . One can only hope that Mangini will be bringing more to the table than he did with the Jets. Their meltdown under his presence with future Hall of Famer, Brett Favre served notice to many. That Mangini as a coach , still has a great deal to learn . Even if his was a Bill Belichick disciple to begin with.

Cleveland Browns' coach Eric Mangini watches from the sidelines as his team succumbs to the Detroit Lions. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Mark Duncan .........

And for a team that as of late, has been a complete anathema as to its inadequacies on both sides of the ball. There’s the feeling that the franchise will labor this upcoming season , no matter whether or obstacles are placed in-front of them. The absurdity of it all isn’t so much that it has been management where the problems really lay. But it really has been the personnel decisions made over the years by the franchise’s then GM, Phil Savage . Who has since been replaced by George Kokinis .That being said Kokinis, as Savage’s successor will now have to prove himself up to the task as to that of his predecessor. Not a great deal to ask you might think. But when one considers the woes of the franchise and their anemic play. You can only but wish the best for them .

Browns' running back James Davis scampers on for an 81 yard touchdown run against the Detroit Lions. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Mark Duncan ................

In spite of this all you can only hope that Mangini , apart from saying all of the right things. Can actually show some real intrinsic coaching talent , rather than still basking off the achievements made under his mentor , Bill Belichick. Granted, Mangini ironically takes over from another Belichick disciple in Romeo Crennel . A great coordinator , but to my mind he was never really NFL coaching material to begin with ! Far too laid back and something of a somnambulist . Inspiring confidence in his players wasn’t something that Crennel was born with , much less being able to communicate with them to begin with. That being said you’ve got to understand that these are the Cleveland Browns that we’re talking about. Much like the Detroit Lions ,their relevance within the NFL hasn’t been one, where we can opine as to the greatness of the franchise. Because those years, are indeed from a bygone age.

Browns' quarterback Derek Anderson (3) looks for a receiver of his intended pass against the Lions in their preseason game played at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland , Ohio. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Matt Sullivan ............

Looking at the Browns’ roster, one can attest to the fact that on the face it. The roster is made up of solid veterans and a number of draftees that they’re no doubt pinning their hopes on to show their worth. But in terms of leadership it’ll have to come from either Anderson or Quinn. That being said both players in terms of their presence and play has showed that they’re also lacking on that front. And it certainly hasn’t helped that with the impending loss of Donte’ Stallworth , due to his legal problems . One doesn’t hold out much hope that this team’ll have anything by way of an offensive presence.And defensively the team has its problems there too . Run defense and against the pass , the Browns are very much like The Titanic. The moment it started it to take on water , you just knew that the vessel was doomed for disaster. It’s been the sheer ineptitude shown by the players and the coaching staff , that has led this franchise to its present predicament.

And perhaps no one personified this more, than another of the team’s wide receivers in Braylon Edwards. His dropped passes were too numerous to mention and a bane to the Browns’ fans in attendance. But it’s been his constant bickering and not wanting to be held accountable for his lack of performance or actions, that if anything, has come to embody what this team has been about. It’s been their lack of discipline and leadership that if anything personifies how inept this team really is.

The feeling may well be that with the infusion of young players via the draft. We may well begin to see some changes in the identity of this team. But much of that’ll be predicated upon the coaching prowess of Mangini and his staff. Never-mind, the fact that within AFC North , they’ll face the likes of the Baltimore Ravens , Cincinnati Bengals and the reigning Superbowl champions , the Pittsburgh Steelers Though one wouldn’t view the division as one of the more glamorous around the league. It’s been often thought of as the meat and potatoes grind , in terms of its quality. But then football and beauty is in the eye of the beholder and all that counts at the end of the day are the results. And nothing would suggest that better than winning. Which is something that the Cleveland Browns have been hard pressed to do.

As I’d alluded to earlier it’s hoped that their younger recruits can contribute to the fortunes of the franchise considerably. And with the likes of Josh Cribbs , Chris Jennings ,Brian Robiskie and a slew of other young players that could very well be ready to acquit themselves well. One can only but hope that Mangini can harness that talent and communicate to them what will be required of them as players. If the coaching staff isn’t able to do that. Then there’s little hope of seeing the Cleveland Browns have a modicum success on the field of play.

Lions' running back Jamal Lewis carves his way through the Lions' defense for a score. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Amy Sancetta ...................

As dark as the Browns’ travails have been. This once storied franchise having fallen upon hard times , can but only hope that the worst is indeed behind them. Their long suffering fans have seen the carpet pulled from beneath them in the guise of Art Modell and his notorious antics. That being , said with present owner , Randy Lerner , trying to do his best to rejuvenate the fans and bring back some semblance of respect and decency to this proud city. These, are now some testing times for that of the Browns’ ownership , that of its fans and players alike. Whatever success that can be attained will first have to be garnered on the field of play. It may well be only incremental but it’s got to be better than what they’ve had to put up with over the past five years or more.

The NFL and its legacy is great when its storied franchises are at the top of their game. No one really likes to see franchises such as the Cleveland Browns down on their luck. Even when it’s said, to be of their own making. But then again , some might prefer it to be that way. Rather than having their own team lodged in the abyss of mediocrity. What say you on the matter ?

Sanchez, Clemens Battle Could End Tonight

When the New York Jets selected Mark Sanchez with the fifth overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, it was widely assumed that he would quickly become the team’s starting quarterback. Coach Rex Ryan hasn’t handed the job to Sanchez; instead, he’s made him work for it. Heading into the Jets second preseason game on Monday night against the Baltimore Ravens, Sanchez is still in a battle with veteran Kellen Clemens to become the starter.

A case can be made for either player. Sanchez is the quarterback that most Jets fans would like to see start — he has all the talent and was given a large contract. Clemens has the support of few, but he certainly won’t make some of the rookie mistakes that Sanchez is sure to make. This makes the decision that much tougher for Ryan, who must avoid listening to those who believe that Sanchez should start simply because of where he was drafted, and not based on merit. As the coach, Ryan must choose the quarterback that gives the Jets the best chance to win football games.

Since teams generally like to use the third preseason game as somewhat of a dress rehearsal for the regular season, it would be fair to assume that the Jets will name a starter by August 29, when the Jets play a “road” game against the New York Giants. Tonight’s game therefore takes on all the more importance. Plus, this game will give the coaching staff the best chance to see how each quarterback deals with adversity. The Ravens have one of the best defenses in the league — Ryan would know, since he was the defensive coordinator in Baltimore before accepting the job with the Jets — and both quarterbacks will have their work cut out for them in this contest. Baltimore is likely to bring pressure all night long, and how Sanchez and Clemens respond should be interesting.

Clemens has a veteran presence, but he hasn’t had a great amount of experience in the regular season. He played in 10 games in 2007, throwing five touchdowns compared to 10 interceptions. Four years of playing in the NFL will give a player confidence, but that doesn’t mean Sanchez doesn’t have any, either. Sanchez has come in to the league and said and done all the right things. Coming from playing his college career in Los Angeles, Sanchez isn’t afraid of pressure and media scrutiny. He has embraced the pressure that comes along with playing in New York, and that alone erases some concerns that a coaching staff would have with a starting a rookie quarterback. Sanchez has a great work ethic and already seems to have earned respect from his teammates.

In the Jets first preseason game, Clemens got the start against the St. Louis Rams and went 4-of-4 for 24 yards. Though it is encouraging that he was accurate, those aren’t even close to the numbers a coach would want to see from a quarterback who is competing for the starting job. Sanchez, on the other hand, started off with a bang, completing his first pass to David Clowney for 48 yards; he finished his night 3-of-4 for 88 yards. After one game, advantage Sanchez.

Against Ryan’s former team tonight, Sanchez will get the start. Based on his performance against the Rams, a strong showing against the Ravens would cement his place as the team’s starter. It’s not going to be easy, though. Statistically, the Ravens were the third best total defense in the NFL. Against the pass, Baltimore ranked second in the league (179.7 yards per game) behind only the Pittsburgh Steelers. How the loss of Ryan, who was instrumental to the defenses success, affects that particular unit is yet to be seen. Not only is Ryan’s coaching gone, but he also took linebacker Bart Scott and safety Jim Leonhard with him to New York. It’s been said that new defensive coordinator Greg Mattison won’t change much from the way Ryan ran the unit, meaning the Ryan should know what’s coming tonight; that should be an advantage to Clemens and Sanchez.

Clemens is at a disadvantage at this moment, and he’ll need to play extremely well tonight in order to win the starting job. Even if Sanchez plays a mediocre game, Clemens will have to give an extraordinary performance to convince offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer that he is the right man for the job. It’s almost unfair that Clemens is faced with having to play well against the Ravens, but not everything in the NFL is fair. This conceivably could be Clemens last chance to win a starting job, so he must take advantage of the opportunity. Working in his favor is that Ryan and Schottenheimer will not give Sanchez the job just because he was the star draft pick. Whomever is starting Week 1 against the Houston Texans will have earned that right.

Clemens and Sanchez bring different attributes to the table, but both appear to be quality leaders. Leadership is arguably the most important quality a quarterback must possess, and it’s never easy for a rookie to come in and be able to command a locker room and huddle. That alone would steer most coaches away from starting the rookie quarterback, but unfortunately for Clemens, Ryan has a different perspective. Last year, the Ravens road rookie quarterback Joe Flacco all the way to the AFC Championship Game. It’s rare that a rookie quarterback performs well, but it isn’t unprecedented.

Many questions must be answered before the Jets coaching staff makes a decision. Sanchez is the front-runner, and must turn in a terrible game tonight in order to relinquish his position. By the end of tonight’s game, he may be the winner of a battle that was probably his to lose from the beginning.

Quarterback Friday

I’ve been waiting all week for this, and now I’m turning in my work past 9:30 at night. I’m pathetic. Anyway, I have been waiting all week to say this…

BRETT FAVRE IS THE MOST ANNOYING PLAYER IN THE NFL.

You know, he’s not the only one in this though, the Vikings put this in his face and he couldn’t resist. He’s not the only one to blame but he’s getting the most blame – you should’ve said no, Farve…You should’ve said no.

You know, not to long ago I was proud of Favre. I was proud because he said NO. Guess what, he changed his mind – AGAIN – and said yes. Why, Favre? Sure your an NFL legend, sure you’ve broken all the records, and yes your an easy HOFer. But quite honestly, I’m tired of seeing ya’ – go down to Mississippi and stay away from the NFL.

Enough of Favre, lets see what the Vikings are doing here. They had Tarvaris Jackson, who did better (numbers wise) than Brett Favre. Then they picked up the always underrated talent of Sage Rosenfels. Lets count, they had 2 very reasonable starters here. Yet they still cry for Favre. That’s not cool. You don’t just shun Jackson and Sage like that, they were fine and now you’ve practically crushed their season. I remember Sgae saying he was very excited in battling for position with Tarvaris.

I’m going generic with my question again this week:

Do you like Brett being back?

I think I’ve expressed my opinion enough on the question…I DO NOT like Favre being back. He waits till the end of camp to do all this. He reminds me of the 9 year old that says, “Dad, do I have to go to practice?” Then dad says, “If you want to play you do.” Then Brett the nine year old say, “But I don’t feel like it,” then goes and cries about it.

Anyway, thanks for reading QB Friday – See ya’ next week!

Vick Does Deserve A Second Chance

As the football season draws near certain juices begin to flow within your veins, Training camp is in full affect, a few preseason games have been played—and Madden NFL ‘10 has finally hit store shelves (although the last two installments were a disaster).

The biggest and latest news coming out of the NFL last week was the signing of fallen quarterback Michael Vick.

As you know by now the Philadelphia Eagles took a big chance in signing the maligned former pro bowl quarterback. The deal was not an economic risk- Vick’s  salary wasn’t enough to put a dent in the Eagles salary cap space, however it was a HUGE risk with certain fans, sponsors and not least of which animal lovers the nation over.

I myself am a huge animal lover; I’ve had pets all my life and treat them like family. I’m the kind of guy who will even try not to kill insects unless I absolutely have to (except for ants and flies, those two annoying species have to go!) That being said however, I do believe that Michael does deserve a second chance. One of my best friends thinks that celebrities shouldn’t get second chances; in fact he said, “If it were a cable guy he would still be in prison.”

This may or may not be true, however I think the fact that he is a celebrity may have hurt him a little bit since dog fighting was not something most North Americans were aware of, and when this came to light they used Michael Vick as the posterchild.

The fact remains that Michael has in my mind paid his debt to society. Vick has spent the past two years in prison–forget the fact that he missed the last two NFL seasons, and forget that he lost all of his endorsements and millions of dollars. Michael lost a lot more than that; Michael was away from his children and family for two years.

I don’t have any children of my own, but can you imagine being away from your young children for a month? I think just one week would hurt most of us. Michael has also had to go through the embarrassment as a fallen disgraced celebrity that a normal Joe most likely would not have had to face.

I’m very happy that a team took a chance on this man–I use the word man because in the end, that is all he is. As a man, he can never be perfect. Celebrity or not, Vick is a human- prone to all of the same temptations we all are. Because he isn’t perfect he made a big mistake.

Who among us hasn’t made mistakes? I’ve made some dumb mistakes throughout my life. I still make stupid mistakes—none as egregious as what he has done obviously, but I learn from each and every one. I like to think that each day that passes by I mature more and more, and I truly believe that is what is happening. I also truly believe that’s what has happened to Michael Vick.

There’s nothing like a stint in prison for two years and a dramatic fall from grace like Michael has experienced to get you going on the right path. He has given what appear to be honest apologies, and has rotted for the last 2 years in prison.

Given all of this, how can we truly know if Michael has learned anything from this and matured as a man if we don’t give him a second chance. The language in this sentence is also important. Nothing Vick can do will make him deserve an extra chance- such opportunities must be given. The question then truly becomes not whether he deserves to play but rather how much punishment is enough. He will always have the stigma of this horrendous episode to carry around with him, and has two years of incarceration to show. The legal system set the amount of time they felt he needed to be punished and he has served every second of it. The primary purpose (at least in theory) of prisons are rehabilitation. What better way to see if the system works then by allowing Vick to return to the life he lived and judge him by his subsequent actions?

The man has done his time, and paid his debt to society. So we should give him this opportunity to better himself in the community as well as on the field, and let him answer to the one judge that matters, God.

The man is still relatively young and I don’t believe his skills have eroded as much as people say; it should be exciting seeing number 7 back out there on an NFL field making defenses look silly. Thank God football is back.