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 !

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 ?

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.

It’s The Same Old Raiders And Absolutely Nothing Has Changed …….They Continue To Stink Up The Joint

It’s being widely reported around the sport’s talk radio networks and broadcast television that an altercation took place between Oakland Raiders‘ coach Tom Cable and his assistant defensive coordinator Randy Hanson. And whilst , the denials have come quick and fast that an altercation never took place. It can only create the perception that all is not right within Raider Nation . Especially amongst the coaching staff of the Raiders. The team’s antics of which haven’t been anything desirable by the franchise as to its competitiveness on or off the field.

Tom Cable gives you his inner being as to what makes him tick.

And while we can all opine as to what ails the Raiders as an organization. This latest incident can only provide clear proof that this once beloved franchise is still a downright mess. From the executive level on downwards. And though Cable has only been in the position but a year as the team’s coach. He’s been able to bring some semblance of discipline back to the franchise. Albeit , that their level of competitive play is still inconsistent. There’s no veteran leadership on the team. And even with the acquisition of wily veteran Jeff Garcia as a free agent. One is hardly liable to view Garcia as the person who can provide the erstwhile intuitiveness and leadership qualities one would come to expect. His limited physical attributes notwithstanding ,this team struggles to find an identity. Furthermore, its draft picks over the last five years haven’t exactly panned out whereby , there’s been anything tangible or advantageous that it can hang its hat on.

Tom Cable (left) and assistant defensive coordinator Randy Hanson (right). An altercation is said to have taken place between the two during a team meeting. Both the NFL and the Raiders' organization are now said to be conducting their own investigation into the incident. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Steven Goyer .......

And though Cable was said to be succinct in his explanation as to what actually took place. How much more will the fans be allowed to tolerate at this juncture ? Cable’s predecessor Lane Kiffin was about as well equipped to handle the position. As Paris Hilton would be considered, to be ready to perform open heart surgery on a patient in need of an urgent heart transplant. For Cable, his first season was something of a baptism of fire under the auspices of team owner, Al Davis . And Davis, as of late has been going through coaches, the way that former Filipino first lady, Imelda Marcos went through a pair of shoes. No laughing matter there, considering the economic plight of the Philippines. As to the wealth of the Raiders’ franchise, its wealth can be best judged by the fact that whatever value it’s said to have can only be really based in its history. Rather than anything that it’s said to have achieved as of late.

Raiders' owner Al Davis speaks with members of the press having just made the formal announcement that the interim coach's tag had been removed and that Tom Cable was now the team's head coach. The formal announcement was made in February at the team's training facility in Alameda County , California. picture appears courtesy of reuters/ Robert Galbraith .................

No doubt this all looks embarrassing for the franchise. But in reality, should we expect anything different from an organization that still has trouble finding some semblance of a game ? Much less, one that actually can still play the game with the deftness expected of a popular franchise. Granted, their fans are still very much passionate about all things Raider-esque. But then again when you’re said to be the only game in town . What else is there to do ? Support the Oakland A’s ?

Raiders' starting quarterback JaMarcus Russell (2) is sacked by the Dallas Cowboys' Keith Brooking (51) in the first quarter of a preseason game played at the Oalkand-Alameda County Coliseum on August 13th 2009. The Raiders would end up defeating the Cowboys 31-10. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jeb Jacobsohn ..............

Much has been made of the Raiders’ JaMarcus Russell ,starting quartetback for the team. And that we ought to see improvements in his play. Now, as a third year starter , the franchise can ill afford to have him once again have another sub par season by most people’s standards. It’s bad enough that the talents of their running back , Darren McFadden has been under-utilized. But then again, the Raiders’ offense as it is , has never been anything to write home about, recently. Potency for them , would be to be caught out in bare sunlight without using sunscreen with the factor of SPF 15 or above. That’s how banal they’ve become offensively, as a team ! Never-mind the fact that defensively they’re as porous as a sponge against the run. And when it comes to tackling , one can espouse to the idea that there may well be male ballet dancers who possess more athleticism and physical traits than the entire Raiders’ defense !

Wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey of the Oakland Raiders warms up prior to beginning of the preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jeb Jacobsohn ..................

Draft wise the team did well in terms of the acquisitions made through the draft. And their prize acquirement was that of wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey . It’s hoped that he can be that missing piece that they require at the wide-out position. It’s hoped that with he and Javon Walker , working in tandem . We can see more potency upfront from the team.

The expectations are high once again for this Raiders’ team . And if they’re to live up to those expectations of prevailing in the AFC West against the likes of the Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs and San Diego Chargers. Then this Raiders’ organization, will have to definitely get its house in order, both on and off the field.

No doubt now , with the NFL about to conduct its own investigation into the alleged incident, between Cable and his assistant Randy Hanson. This is something that’s about to create another PR nightmare for a franchise that has in recent times become the laughing stock of the NFL. And though the much maligned owner , Al Davis is thought to still have some of his faculties about him. I can only hazard a guess, that he , himself , won’t think anything of it, that his coaching staff on appearance, are no more saner than he is. After-all , this is the Oakland Raiders that we’re talking about ! It’s not as if, in recent times they’ve given the fans of the NFL much less their own fans something to be happy about. It’s still a comedy of errors within the organization. Be it on the field or off it , for that matter !

Courtesy of the Washington Post :

Cable Denies He Hit Assistant Coach

By Mark Maske of The Washington Post

Oakland Raiders’ coach Tom Cable has denied a report that he hit one of his team’s defensive assistants in the jaw during a meeting, resulting in an injury that required treatment at a Napa, Calif., hospital emergency room earlier this month.

Cable told ESPN that no punches were thrown.

Several news organizations reported that Raiders defensive assistant Randy Hanson was treated at a hospital following the Aug. 5th incident. The league-owned NFL Network reported that Hanson told police he’d been struck by another member of the team’s coaching staff. A report by the website FanHouse indicated that Cable had punched Hanson in the jaw. cont’d ……….

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In order to read this article in its entirety just click on the text shown above
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NB For more of an update as to the latest in the ongoing saga as to this incident. Then please click on the link provided below, to view.

NFL investigating alleged Raiders coach scrap ; Cable denies fight ….. From the Associated Press.

Jake Delhomme You’ll Be The Death Of Me And You’re Killing John Fox.

They say you ought not to put much store in the preseason games within the NFL . That being said , having caught a brief glance of the Carolina Panthers and New York Giants, gave me every reason to believe that this will be a long and arduous season for the Panthers. Much of their malaise stems from the mere fact that their quarterback , Jake Delhomme has regressed as a starter. And whilst, there was seemingly talk that the organization may well have been shown some interest in Michael Vick . Nothing ever came of it .

Leger Douzable of the Giants deflects the ball out of the hands of Panthers' backup quarterback Hunter Cantwell. It was one several turnovers by the Panthers during the game that resulted in a 24-17 loss to the New York Giants. Cantwell and starting quarterback Jake Delhomme didn't at all fare well during the preaseason game played at the Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jared Wickerham .................

At best I , would consider Delhomme to be a moderately serviceable quarterback. But nowhere near, what I’d seek in a starter. He’s slow and has no real pocket presence , much less a strong arm. Somehow, within the offensive scheme conjured up by the team’s coach John Fox and his offensive coaching staff. The franchise has been moderately successful with Delhomme at the helm. That being said whether or not it was rust or lack of timing on Jake Delhomme’s part in the preseason game against the Giants. His performance in the game , albeit for no more than a couple of series. It can be best described as being pitiful ! The resulting 24-17 loss to the Giants, can’t have given the Panthers any faith in their starting quarterback. And I shudder to think how Fox, himself , may have felt after the player’s performance.

Josh McCown of the Carolina Panthers attempts a pass in the preseason game against the New York Giants played at Giants' Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jim McIsaac ..................

And when one looks at the team’s roster and the quarterback’s within the fold. It leaves a great deal to be desired. Asides ,from Delhome , the likes of Josh McCown and Matt Moore and Hunter Cantwell , aren’t exactly the names that’d come to mind, or that one would consider to be earth shattering, in terms of a backup. But then again , much of that is all about perception, as they say. Somehow , I don’t even feel that either of those players will make the grade . Should they be placed in the position where they’d have to take over from Delhomme. And that’s why it’ll be imperative first of all for Jake Delhomme to remain healthy. But above all , consistent in his play , if the team are to fare well this upcoming season within the NFC South . And more importantly throughout their entire NFL regular season schedule. A playoff berth isn’t beyond this team if they play up to their full potential. But based upon the evidence thus far and in particular the play of Delhomme. It’s hard to see what positives one can hope to take out of this, at this moment in time.

Matt Moore (3) of the Carolina Panthers throws a pass during the preseason game against the New York Giants. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jared Wickerham .................

Defensively , this team can be as good as they come . Especially when they apply themselves to the task. And on the defensive end, in Julius Peppers . They may well have one of the very best run stoppers out there. Peppers is ably assisted by stalwarts such as Chris Gamble , Tyler Brayton, Nate Salley and second year player Nick Hayden. In this particular aspect the Panthers are capable of holding their own. But again for there to be any success with regard to the defense. Then the players will have to also expect some vast contributions from not only their seasoned veterans. But also their young draftees.

Panthers' coach John Fox watches from the sidelines as his team faces the New York Giants. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo / Kathy Willens ...................

The Panthers’ offense has never really been in doubt. And with Steve Smith . They may well possess one of the more creative and dynamic wide receivers in the game. And with the return of seasoned veteran Muhsin Muhammad back with the team. The double threat posed by both does give the offense an added edge. But it’d also be remiss to discount the team’s running attack. That’s led by Johnathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams. The double tandem formation , that’s now seemingly becoming the norm ,for the vast majority of the teams around the NFL.

Panthers' starting quarterback Jake Delhomme attempts a pass during the preseason game against the New York Giants. Delhomme had a miserable start to the preseason in terms of his performance. He fumbled twice and completed only five of his seven attempts during the series he participated in. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jared Wickerham .........................

With the rise in prominence of the NFC South and in particular the resurgence of the Atlanta Falcons under their young quarterback Matt Ryan . And the always dangerous New Orleans Saints - with the rebuilding project that’s now said to be be taking place with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers . It’s felt that the division ,for all sense and purpose will be a three horse race between the aforementioned teams. With the Buccaneers seated at the bottom of the table at the end of the regular season. This much is certain however, if the Panthers do fail. It won’t be for the lack of trying. As John Fox, is considered to be a hard task master amongst his peers around the league. That being said, it’ll be up to his starting quarterback Jake Delhomme to prove me wrong in my own suspicions as to how this team’ll fare.

Ahmad Bradshaw of the New York Giants runs the ball against the Carolina Panthers during the game. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Jim McIsaac ........................

And as alluded to , as Jake Delhomme goes , so too will this team. Their fortunes lay in the fact that he’s going to have to perform way above par in his position as the team’s starting quarterback. If this team is at all to do well. Mediocrity on his part can no longer be tolerated by the Carolina Panthers’ fans, the team’s players and in particular their coach, John Fox. If things do head south , then we may well see Fox on the way out, as there’s likely to be a change in the coaching regime within the organization.

Come One , Come All , It’s The Michael Vick Traveling Circus

Come One , Come All , It’s The Michael Vick Traveling Circus

Well unless you’ve been asleep under a rock over the last 2 1/2 years. Then it’ll come as no surprise to you that Michael Vick has returned to the NFL . Yesterday, as only ESPN seems to know how to do. They broke the news that Vick had signed with the Philadeplhia Eagles . It is part of a 2 year deal for $7m . The deal pays Vick $1.5m over the first season and $ 5.5m over the second season- with a further $3m , in additional incentives. Now some may well say that this places added pressure on the incumbent quarterback, Donovan McNabb . And it has been suggested that it was actually McNabb who first proposed this to his coach, Andy Reid .

Vick and Reid at a press conference at the Nova Care Complex in Philadelphia that formally announces that the player has signed a two year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Larry French ................

With that in mind , this will no doubt give the franchise an added boost in terms of the interest that’ll be shown by the fans. But it’ll also place them front and center in terms of the continuing controversy that has surrounded the player and his past troubles. There’s no doubt that as dynamic a player that Vick is, the demand to see him on the field of play will be plentiful . And at the same time there’ll be vociferous fans out there who’ll be determined to show their opposition to this maneuver.That being said only time will tell how the player’ll will fare. From a financial aspect it doesn’t place a great deal on the franchise to begin with. But it may well put some added pressure not only McNabb to perform at his best. But it’ll also place a great deal of pressure on the backups A. J. Feeley and Kevin Kolb , to show that they’re worthy of being on the team’s roster. In all probability Vick won’t only be just used in the backup position. But also as a slot receiver or under some other premise as designated by Reid and his coaching staff.

Coach Andy Reid of the Philadelphia Eagles address members of the convened press to make the announcement that Michael Vick has been signed by the team and now becomes its newest member. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Larry French .................

Locally, within the city itself , the voices have been heard. There’ve been those in favor of the move. And there’ve been others who’ve shown their ire to the move by the Philadelphia Eagles. This all, had to have come with the blessing of the Eagles’ hierarchy of coach, Andy Reid and the owner Jeffrey Lurie and the franchise’s team president , Joe Banner . How this now, plays out as the season progresses , remains to be seen. The player for now will merely practice with the team and quite possibly play in one or two of the preseason games. As it is, the player won’t be able to participate in any regular season games, until game 6 of the regular season .As he’s still under suspension by the NFL.

A formal announcement is expected to be made by the team on Friday morning and one can expect the customary feeding frenzy by the press in covering the spectacle as it unfolds. That being said the player himself , can no doubt expect some vocal support and also a great deal of indifference by the fans, once he makes his physical entrance on the field of play for the very first time. Two years away, from the game and there’s bound to be some rust and a timing problem with the player. But that’s not what made Vick a major attraction when first introduced to the NFL. It was the fact that he could make the impossible at times seem easy. And the mere fact that with his explosiveness and athleticism , he wasn’t your prototypical quarterback. Now comes the hard part for the player ,it’ll be to reinvent himself not only as a player. But also in terms of his character. Which of above all, is what really matters as far as the player is concerned. And that too , of the NFL and league commissioner, Roger Goodell . Vick can ill afford to mess up this time around in any way. Another transgression either on, or off the field and he can kiss the resumption of his NFL career goodbye , once and for all. This is, the situation that Michael Vick now faces.

Vick and his mentor Tony Dungy look on as they both take questions from the convened press at the Eagles' facility in Philadelphia on Friday morning . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Matt Rourke ....................

It’s said that everyone is deserving of a second chance but one seriously doubts that a third or fourth chance will be forthcoming from the league or its rabid fans.Especially, should Vick ran afoul of the league or law once again . So make of it what you will, as the player re-enters the league and all of the privileges that he’s about to be afforded.