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 Who has since been replaced by George Kokinis .That being said Kokinis, as Savage’s successor will now have to prove himself up to the task as to that of his predecessor.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 ?

All Good Things Must Come To An End …..

For all 32 teams of the NFL , they start out , on an even keel. There’ll be those who’ve the aspirations of having what they deem to be a successful season. And then there’ll be others who’ll just look to make of it, what they will, as to the season.

Browns' quarterback Derek Anderson (3) throws a pass during the team's training camp on Wednesday , held in Berea , Ohio. Brown and teammate Brady Quinn are in competition for the starting job on the team. And team coach Eric Mangini has yet to make a decision as to who his starter will be for either the presason or the regular season games. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Tony Dejak .................

The preseason schedule notwithstanding, gives the fans something of an insight, as to the direction of their team or teams might be taking . OK, so we can all agree, we’ll see something of a watered down product on the field. As many of the starters won’t be in a game , for more than one or two series at best , during the preseason. And this will give the coaching staffs of the respective teams more of an insight as to their draftees and practice squad players on the fringe of making a team’s roster.

Jags' wide receiver Troy Williamson makes a catch during training camp, held in Jacksonville, Florida. The Jaguars are hoping for a far more successful season. Given last year's disappointment of a 4-12 debacle as to their season's aspirations. If anything their coach Jack Del Rio is one of the coaches , most consider to be on the hot seat. Failure again and most likely this season will be his last. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Phil Coale ............

With that in mind , I look at this season, as one of hope for a number of teams. In particular , for the likes of the Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars , Carolina Panthers , New Orleans and somewhat optimistically, the Detroit Lions . These teams in particular , I feel in many ways , they’ve either been overwhelmed with the expectations placed upon them. Or in some cases in terms of their personnel, they just didn’t have what it’d take to acquit themselves well, this past season. That being said, I’m not so sure that they’ll have enough of what it might take to actually make amends this upcoming season. And with the preseason already underway , with the Hall of Game having been played between the Tennessee Titans and Buffalo Bills . There’s a feeling in the air that this season is all but under way , bar the preseason.

Saints' wide receiver Devery Henderson makes a touchdown catch in front linebacker Usama Young during the team's training camp in Metairie , La ,. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Bill Haber .......................

As a New England Patriots’ fan , I’m hoping to see the team rebound from last season. And especially so , given the fact that we came oh so close , to making the playoffs. Were it not for the spectacular turnaround by the Miami Dolphins and their inspiring play. It may well have been a season, whereby the Pats could’ve made some real noise in the postseason. But alas, it wasn’t to be ! This season however, with Tom Brady , back helming the team at the quarterback position. The franchise is expected to do well. And with the addition of seasoned veterans Joey Galloway , Fred Taylor and Derrick Burgess . They ought to prove themselves more than up to the task of reclaiming their status amongst the elite of the NFL.

Pats' quarterback Tom Brady (12) leads the team's qb's through a team drill at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough , Mass,. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Winslow Townson ......................

And while there are but thirty two teams within the NFL and parity being what it is. Well all know that in essence, it’s really about 5 or 6 teams that in reality have a real chance of raising the Lombardi Trophy. OK , so once in a while there’ll be a Cinderella story that’ll have the public in awe. As it was last year, with the Arizona Cardinals and their surprising ascent and a place in the Superbowl. The other teams might well be thought of as also rans or just there to make up the numbers. The point is , that during the regular season we’ll get to see each episode unfold as the season progresses.

Lions' fans watch the training camp practice at the team's facility in Allen Park, Michigan. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Paul Sancya ................

Tonight’s preseason game is a rematch of Superbowl XLIII between the reigning champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals. This ought to be a game in show only . It bears no real semblance as to how both teams will fare with regard to the remainder of the preseason. It’s merely a guide for the respective coaching staffs , as to how their draftees and practice squad assignees are hoping to fare. This much is true for these players, in particular, they’re going to have to justify the faith shown in them by the coaches. As to the front-line players this merely gives them a chance to shake off the rust of the off-season. Practicing in pads is one thing , the preseason is another. But nothing , absolutely nothing , gets the players’ juices rushing once the whistle is blown for that first regular season game and the first hit is landed. That’s what the players yearn and the fans genuinely live for . And who can blame them ?

Steelers' running back Rashard Mendenhall (34) runs through the defensive line during practice at the team's practice facility on the campus of St Vincent College in Latrobe , Pa,. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Gregory Shamus .................

As the sixteen game schedule reaches its culmination and the berths are assigned for the playoffs. Let’s hope your team is there. If not, then you can always rally around another , if that’s your wish. But then again, the aspirants as they are, know that at the end of the day . There can but be only two teams playing in the Superbowl, itself. And for the 30 teams sitting at home on the 8th February 2010 . The two teams playing in Miami , will be looking to have their names etched on the Lombardi Trophy and become part of NFL folklore.

The Super Bowl and the NFL have become a part of the fabric of the country’s society. And if anything it’s become almost as important as a national holiday , for many. Fortunately for the most rabid of fans it’s something that we’ve come to appreciate. Perhaps more so, than any other national sporting event that the country has. However , for those teams who aren’t a part of the day’s events as to their participation . For them , as it’s often been said ” …… all good things must come to and end.”

No Matter What Fans Think, The Preseason Is Important

Many fans loathe preseason football. The starters play few minutes, don’t try their hardest, and it’s a time when second and third-stringers get the opportunity to play most of the games. Each team plays four preseason games, which many feel is too many games. And in the case of the two teams that play in the annual Hall of Fame Game, they have 5 preseason games to work with.

Tomorrow, the preseason fully gets underway. four games will be played, with the Arizona Cardinals and Pittsburgh Steelers being the highlight of the night as it will be shown live on ESPN. Fans will certainly watch, but many will tune out after the first couple of series, when the first-string players are relegated to the bench as everyone else gets playing time. Many fans are opposed to the preseason and think that it should be reduced to 2 games for each team, but a number of things go into these games, making each one important.

The preseason is an extremely valuable time for NFL teams. For the first-string players, it really isn’t all that necessary, but it is a good chance to get involved with the game again and get back into the groove of playing actual games after a long season of OTAs and minicamps. It especially benefits new players who will be starting, because it gives them a chance to familiarize themselves with new teammates and get a feel for how they play in game situations.

Second and third-string players are on the ones that need these games the most, as many are fighting for roster spots. The competition for jobs cannot be won on the practice field. General managers and coaches need to see how players do in real games, with pads and against opposing players. Watching them work against teammates in practice isn’t a good gauge of their progress.  It’s a chance for these players to showcase their abilities and prove that they have earned the right to remain on the roster. And if they are going to get cut, it also works out as being an audition for all the teams around the league that are monitoring the games.

Coaches and general managers are the ones who get the most out of these games. For coaches, it is the chance to test a new scheme, watch it play out for the time against real competition and see how the players execute it. That is something that surely can’t be fulfilled from a practice. New coaches truly need these games, because they undoubtedly have new schemes that need to be practiced in game situations, and they also need to get a feel for their team as a whole. It’s a dress rehearsal for new coaches, as they can go through the game-day procedures and also see for the first time what works and what doesn’t when it comes to preparation. General mangers also benefit from these games, because they work with the coaches to make roster cuts, and that’s the biggest value that comes from preseason games. Cutting a substantial amount players after simply watching training camp doesn’t seem fair and it certainly doesn’t make much football sense. These games are where players will either rise to the occasion and perform well or crumble under the bright lights of NFL football. Remember, training camp rosters have 80 players, but gameday rosters have 53.  That means that 27 players are going to be gone from the team come early September. Seven players can be designated to the practice squad, so coaches and GMs have to see which seven they would like to keep in that form.

Each and every player has to be fully evaluated, and that’s what the preseason is for. Every decision is big, because which players a team settles on is the group that will go forward and try to win a championship.

Position battles are a staple of training camp, and a starter is typically named during the preseason. The Cleveland Browns, for example, have a quarterback competition going between Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson. According to coach Eric Mangini, a starter will be named by the third preseason game. That will give the coaching staff significant evaluation time, and the next game can be used to watch the starter work with the first-unit for most of the game rather than having to work with the second-unit, which is what can happen when two players are engaged in a competition.

Now, why the need for four games? That is always the question that fans want answered. Does it really take 4 games to evaluate all of the players and see which ones to keep and which to cut? Coaches and GMs will say yes, for a variety of reasons. Each preseason game is different in how it is run by most teams. The first two preseason games are used to get starters back into the swing of things and then begin the evaluation of second and third-stringers. The third game is usually when all of the starters have been named and coaches have a good grasp of how the team will look for the first regular season game. The starters play the most minutes in this game because it serves a great tune-up for the regular season. Then there’s the fourth game, which is used for final evaluations of second and third-stringers. Starters typically don’t play in this game, because coaches don’t want to see injuries happen to key players so close to the season.

And when it comes to the preseason, don’t forget about the money involved. Look, it’s not something most people want to hear, but the NFL makes a great profit off of these four games. The two home games that each team gets are added onto the season ticket packages and games are usually sold out, meaning that the league and team turn a solid profit.

The preseason doesn’t necessarily have the best football being played, but it is a very important time for everyone involved. Fans may not like it, but things would be much more difficult for teams without these games.

Same Old, Same Old In The NFC East

Less than a week from today, the NFL season will begin with the annual Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. The game will take place between the Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans. The Hall of Fame Game is a guarantee every year that fans look forward to. It signals the start of the new season. But few things in the NFL are guaranteed. With all of the contact and risk of injury on every play, there simply isn’t enough consistency for things to stay the same year-after-year. One of the things that is consistent is the NFC East, consistently the best and toughest division in football. Last season was a little different, as the NFC South gave the East a run for its money. Based solely on wins and losses, the South was the best division in football last season. Based on all factors, including talent and teams overall, arguments could have been made for every division. But the South’s dominance last season would appear to be an anomaly. In 2009, the East will once again reclaim its place as the best and toughest division in the NFL.

There are a number of factors that go into determining just how good a division is, and wins and losses isn’t necessarily the biggest. Talent, skill, competition and the rivalries are all important determining factors. Every game within the division must be tough. To truly gage just how good a division is from a pure football standpoint, look at the team that is expected to finish last. And in the case of the East in ‘09, most experts and fans (including myself) have pegged the Washington Redskins to finish in fourth place.

The Redskins won’t be as bad as most people think. Last season, they came out on fire behind the energy of first-year head coach Jim Zorn. They got off to a 4-1 start, thanks to a solid offensive numbers from running back Clinton Portis and quarterback Jason Campbell. Portis wound up carrying the team on his back for the first half of the season, and the workload he received early on probably contributed to the team’s down-slide in the second half of the year. Cambell, who had gotten off to such a good start, fizzled in the last half of the season as the Redskins lost 4 of their final 5 games. Their record was 8-8, good enough for last in the division. To finish with a .500 winning percentage and come in last says a lot about the East, as only the South had a similar result. In Zorn’s second season at the helm, improvements naturally should me made. Plus, owner Daniel Synder did what he does best by making the biggest splash of the offseason. The ‘Skins signed arguably the best defensive tackle in football, Albert Haynesworth. They also added defensive end Brian Orakpo through the draft. Both additions should improve their front seven. Though the ‘Skins likely will come in last place, they should be better than their record shows, which will ultimately reflect on the division.

From a talent standpoint, tally up another victory for the East. Offensively, New York Giants QB Eli Manning (pictured, right), Dallas Cowboys’ QB Tony Romo and Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb comprise the best group of QBs in one division. While the East doesn’t have the best group of defensive players in one division, it does have two players, LB DeMarcus Ware and cornerback Asante Samuel, that are arguably the best at their respective divisions. This category is the trickiest to judge, because loads of talent is sprinkled throughout the league. Finding the most talented players stacked in division is nearly impossible, but a compelling case can be made for the East. But this is the category in which all of the divisions are stacked up closely.

The competition aspect is where the race for best division is really won. If a team goes undefeated in their division, it doesn’t bode well for the strength of the division. In 2008, for example, two teams went undefeated in their respective divisions: the Pittsburgh Steelers (AFC North) and Arizona Cardinals (NFC West). Obviously both were excellent teams as the played in the Super Bowl, but their divisions were far from great. And at the bottom of the spectrum, having a team go 0-6 in the division isn’t a good harbinger of strength. Three teams — the St. Louis Rams (NFC West), Detroit Lions (NFC North) and Buffalo Bills (AFC East) — didn’t win a single game in their divisions last season. As usual, the NFC East was the most competitive division in football last season, along with the South. The team with the best record in the division, the Giants, went 4-2. The team with the worst record, the Eagles, went 2-4. Only the South had the same win-loss numbers. But the South figures to take a slide this season, as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers won’t be nearly as good as they were last season. The Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints stand to be improved, but Carolina may come back down to earth  after going 12-4 last season. Every team in the East, meanwhile, has improved. As a result, games in the division figure to be even better and more competitive in ‘09.

In the NFC East, rivalry is a word that gets thrown around a lot, and deservedly so. Cowboys/Giants always seems to produce two of the best games of the year. Eagles/Cowboys tends to be just as good and it is one of the best rivalries in the game. Redskins/Giants and Redskins/Eagles don’t necessarily have the storied history of the other games, but both are always fun to watch. Then there is the crown jeweled rivalry of the division, Redskins/Cowboys. These two games are two of the most intense and hard fought games in football. This game means so much that when the Redskins defeated the Cowboys in the final Redskins/Cowboys game at Texas Stadium, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones looked like he was going to fire every member of his coaching staff on the spot. While there are great rivalries throughout football, the East has produced the best rivalry games on a consistent basis.

The ‘09 season once again figures to be an excellent one for the NFC East. No matter how much people seem to dislike the teams in the division, everyone will be watching. And how can they not? Quite simply, it’s the best division in football.

You Pay, To Play ……

One would like to think that having raised the Lombardi Trophy twice, by winning your second Superbowl in the last four years (2005[XL] & 2008 [XLIII]). As is the case for Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger . There would be the thought that you’d be viewed as the all conquering hero within the city of Pittsburgh , if not across the entire state of Pennsylvania.

Roethlisberger (left) and then teammate Jerome Bettis celebrate the team's victory in Superbowl XL . The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Seattle Seahawks 21-10 at Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan infront of a capacity attendance of 68,206 and tens of millions watching on television worldwide. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Marshall Richardson ..............

And for Roethlisberger , ever since his introduction into the NFL. Where he burst unto the stage with some authority, showing his grit and determination . It was viewed that he was still something of a raw talent , who still had the prerequsites of becoming good , if not a great quarterback. In his 6 seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers, he’s accomplished far more than most players have achieved in their entire careers within the NFL. Think Dan Marino ? The latter of whom it can be said, is often viewed as one of the very best to have ever played the position of quarterback. But who over his long and distinguished career never won a Superbowl.

The Steelers for their part , are viewed as te epitome of how an NFL franchise ought to be ran and how it conducts itself both on and off the field. The Rooney family, as the long tenured owners of the team saw fit to that. That legacy lives on through the sons of Art Rooney. And with this new era, wherein Dan Rooney and his brother Art Rooney II tether the reins of the franchise. The thinking where the their father left off . Now it is their time to write a new chapter in the Steelers’ story and its legacy.

Quarterbacks Eli Manning (left) and Ben Roethlisberger (right) on NFL Draft Day 2004. Manning who was originally picked by the San Diego Chargers but later traded to the New York Giants in exhange for Phillip Rivers. Roethlisberger who was also taken in the first round out of Miami (Ohio), was the eleventh overall pick, taken by the Pittsburgh Steelers. That pick has paid dividends for both the team and the player. As he's guided them to two Superbowl wins in five years. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Richard Marcincus ........................

It is often viewed that when you’ve got an accomplished quarterback , who then becomes the the face of the franchise . The chances are that you can ride the crest of a wave , when there’s already been a great deal of success achieved. Roethlisberger has achieved that and is now looked upon as the vocal leader of this team. Granted , he’s had his mishaps that can often be associated with a brash young quarterback. His motorcycle accident a few years back, almost put an end to his then young and flourishing career. He obviously learnt from that mistake. And heeded the advice offered to him by his peers on the team at the time.

With the new found acclaim , came the wealth and notoriety. And as an eligible bachelor , who becomes the staple for many of the tabloids , who sees fit to place an athlete up on a pedestal, only to tear them down at what they perceive to be the first sign of impropriety. Roethlisberger’s private and public life is open to close public scrutiny. The media is often viewed as a pariah and a parasite , whose only view is to report the salaciousness of a story . Rather than being an informative source of information when reporting the news. Then again , when an athlete places themselves in a compromising position . Then it is the press’ right to report that story factually and verbatim.

Somtimes an incident can be compromised when it’s not reported. Merely because those involved choose to cover it up by not making it public at all. And when that tends to happen, the ramifications can be disastrous and also lead to a great deal of speculation. In the case where that incident is one , where it’s sexual in its nature . Then for both of the parties involved it can be a case of “he said, she said.”

This all now comes full circle as to an allegation now being made by a female employee of Harrahs , the noted hotel and casino chain. This female alleges that she was sexually assaulted by Ben Roethlisberger , in his hotel room after it was alleged he asked for assistance in trying to repair a television set that didn’t appear to be working. The female employee who was working the front-desk at the time states that she went to his room to assist the player , in his request. What may , or may not have taken place that night in Lake Tahoe, Nevada , is clearly open to a great deal of speculation. But what further makes this incident on appearance seem all the more incredulous, is the fact the victim of this alleged crime didn’t initially report to the police or her superiors. As to the reasons why, who knows ?

Roethlisberger (7) of the Pittsbugh Steelers looks to evade the Arizona Cardinals Gerald Hayes (54) during Superbowl XLIII played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa , Florida. picture appears courtesy of getty images / Jamie Squires ........................

And the denials have already been forthcoming through Roethlisberger’s lawyer and agent. And the speculation has become widespread , due to the fact that the player and several of Harrahs’ employees are said to be close acquaintances. It has been said that a security staff members may have known about the incident , failed to report it, as it was known that Roethlisberger was said to be the known assailant, of the victim. VIP , celebrity status or not , if true ,this is a troubling assertion. The player is a regular visitor to many of their establishments around the country. In particular the venues in Atlantic City, Renoe / Tahoe and Las Vegas.

Courtesy of Yahoosports in conjunction with AP:

Deputy: No plans to investigate Roethlisberger

By Scott Stoner , Associated Press Writer

RENO, Nev. (AP)-Law enforcement officials in Nevada have no intention of opening a criminal investigation into allegations Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger raped a woman at a Lake Tahoe hotel-casino a year ago, the sherrif’s department said Wednesday.

Douglas County Sherrif’s Deputy Theresa Duffy said the accuser would have to file a criminal complaint to trigger an investigation into the incident the woman says occurred during a celebrity golf tournament last July while she was working as an executive casino host at Harrahs Lake Tahoe.

“The victim is the only one who can do that,” Duffy told the Associated Press. “Unless there was a third party that actually witnessed the incident , which according to the civil case, was not the case here,” she said.

The 31-year old woman who was working as a VIP host at Harrahs Lake Tahoe at the time has filed a lawsuit saying Roethlisberger raped her in a hotel penthouse across the street from the golf course , a claim he vehemently denies.

The woman a native of Canada who had worked at Harrahs since 2003, never went to the authorities with her story , and it’s unclear why she decided to file the lawsuit seeking hundreds of thousands of dollars a full year later.

“Ben has never sexually assaulted anyone . The timing of the lawsuit and the absence of a criminal complaint and a criminal investigation are the most compelling evidence of the absence of any criminal conduct,” Roethlisberger lawyer David Cornwell said in a statement. “If an investiagation is commenced , Ben will cooperate fully and Ben will be fully exonerated.”

He did not immediately reply to a phone message and e-mail seeking more comment. cont’d ……………….

_______________________________________________________

In order to read this AP article in its entirey , just click on the headlined text link above
_________________________________________________________

In light of what took place with regard to the ‘Kobe Bryant incident’ in Eagle, Colorado. It’s hard for an athlete to place themselves out of harm’s way even in the most innocuous of circumstances. In Bryant’s case even though a criminal case wasn’t deemed necessary as the plaintiff did not want to proceed forward with the claim. It has to be said , Bryant on his part used poor judgement in the course of his actions.

For Roethlisberger , he now has to fight the assertion that he’s just another highly overpaid athlete who can flout the law, and act out as , and how he pleases. But at the same there’s no burden of evidence to state he acted inappropriately. However, something had to have taken place in order for the victim to be making these allegations to begin with. Moreover, now she also can’t be excused for her inaction for not first reporting the incident. Which now leaves us with a dilema . Who are we to believe ? The athlete who proclaims his innocence ? Or an alleged victim who may well be looking to extort money from an athlete whom she thought she could catch in all too compromising position ?

The truth at times can compromising in terms of its shades. There’s the allged victim’s side and then there’s the defendant’s. But somewhere in between lies the real truth and that evidence isn’t always abundantly clear to begin with when first looking for an answer. As alluded to earlier in cases likes this ….it all comes down to ” he said , she said ”

And the justice system for its part doesn’t always get it right to begin with. The alleged victim as in the plaintiff, in the proposed civil suit now can use a device. Wherein she tries to push the defendant to prove his innocence. But bearing in mind ,the burden of proof lays with the veracity of the argument being out forth by both sides. Nothing is ever as clear cut , as it first seems.

It’s Nice To Know It’s Back To The Norm As Tom’s Back

Well if you happen to be a New England Patriots’ fan . Then over the last two regular seasons. One would have to say it has been something of a dour time. First came the inexplicable loss to the New York Giants in Superbowl XLII, 17-14.

New England quarterback Tom Brady (12) has his legs taken from beneath him by Chiefs' safety Bernard Pollard during a preseason game played at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachussetts. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Winslow Townson ...............

And then came the disappointment of failing to make the playoffs last year in the AFC East. Either as a wild-card entrant or winner of the division. That distinction went to the Miami Dolphins. The team won the division with an 11-5 record . The same record that was posted by the Patriots. But given the virtue of their record within the conference (8-4) , the privilege went to the Dolphins. But what really brought the team’s season to an early end was the loss of Tom Brady. Losing a player of Brady’s stature is one thing , as he’s seen as the linch-pin that provides stability to the team. Nevermind that he’s also viewed as the team’s vocal leader and main play maker. He and the Indianapolis Colts’ Peyton Manning may well be the pre-eminent quarterbacks in the NFL.

Patriots' receivers Randy Moss (81) and teammate Wes Welker (83) on the field of play. These two prolific players will be looking to make the receiving corps of the Patriots once again one of the most feared in the NFL. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Phil Mitchell ............

But that asides, this upcoming season will be about whether or not the team and Brady are back to their very best. After the downturn in the events where the expectations were high. To have failed to make the playoffs was as equally disappointing for the players. As it was also for the fans. But the bright spot in all of this was that the team discovered that they had a more than adequate backup in Matt Cassel. His performances initially were shaky. But once he found his footing, the team was most definitely in sync. However given the restraints on a team when it comes to the NFL salary cap. It wasn’t possible to retain both Cassel and Brady. Albeit that there were calls for Brady to be traded and Cassel to remain in his stead. That was when things became a little asinine to say the least amongst some of the Patriots’ fans. And from the blowhards within Bristol, Connecticut. But then again they are entitled to their opinions, as is the Patriots’ coach Bill Belichick. And I for one would like to think that Belichick knows a little bit more about the sport than a great many of the prognosticators out there. Stop it with the Belichick the cheater calls. Get over it ! It’s over and done with !

Patriots' wide receiver Joey Galloway at the team's practice facility during the team's organized training activities. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/Stephan Savoia .......................

The offseason saw the trading of Cassel to the Kansas City Chiefs. Wherein Cassel having been tagged a franchise player will be earning himself a king’s ransom this upcoming year with the Chiefs.

For a die-hard Patriots’ fan like myself. It will be indeed intriguing to see how the team acquits itself. The team’s draft was as good as ever. With the team picking up some good , solid young players. That it deems will either make an immediate contribution or be able learn from the more seasoned professionals on the team. The team has made the most of the free agent market by picking up one or two players who they feel can still make a valid contribution to the ambitions of the franchise. And it should come as no surprise that amongst those pickups was the former Jacksonville Jaguars’ running back Fred Taylor. For some reason the Jaguars felt that Taylor’s best days are behind him. Anyone whose seen Taylor play throughout much of his career will realize that he’s not the sort of player to rest on his laurels. Another veteran player acquired also was former Buccaneers’ veteran wide receiver Joey Galloway.

And to the Jaguars’ fans who are lamenting the loss of the player. They should look the team’s coach Jack Del Rio squarely in the eye and ask him “….. why send Taylor off into the cold ” ?
It would appear that the trials and tribulations of Del Rio and the Jaguars continue to this day. A team that under Del Rio’s tenureship that continues to disappoint and underperform in the AFC South each year.

Adalius Thomas (96) and teammate safety,Rodnery Harrison (37) celebrate breaking up a play. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Paul Wilson ...............

As alluded to earlier with the return of Brady and the acquisition of free agents. And with its core offensive players in-tact. I would hope to see the team back in its rightful place atop of the AFC East. And being viewed as one of the elite teams within the conference and the league as a whole.

The erstwhile owner Robert Kraft (right) and his chief de' equipe Bill Belichick (left) celebrate their win over the San Diego Chargers 21-12 in the AFC Championship played at Gillette Stadium , Foxborough , Massachussetts on 20th January 2008. picture appears courtesy of getty images/ Elsa ............

The defense of the Patriots will have to manifest itself and play to the highest standards. And with regard to the offense , we can be sure that it’ll be as proficient as ever. And we should look to see Wes Welker and Randy Moss be the prime receiving targets of the quarterback. And the running game should be where one would expect it to be. If anything we’ll see a mixture of a running game hybrid with the usual proficient passing from Tom Brady.

The aspirations are high as usual. And that’s to be expected if you’re an avid fan of this now storied franchise. The bar is always set high as to their expectations. And considering their history over this decade. Is there any reason to believe why the New England Patriots aren’t able to meet those goals ? Given their success and the conduct of the ownership in the guise of Robert Kraft. The gold standard has been set alongside that of the Rooney family with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

So with the preseason just around the corner and training camp merely a few weeks away. Here’s one Patriots’ fan eager to see how this team will do. Four preseason games, with the first being played in Philadelphia against the Eagles. And then with the first regular game of the season will be at home at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachussetts against the Buffalo Bills. Something that ought bring success in terms of a win. Even with the always expressive Terrell Owens in tow for the Bills. The game itself ought to be an event worth watching. Both teams will be looking to prove their worth and show that they’re legitimate contenders for postseason play and honors.

It is conceivable to think that this team will be once again seen as the preseaon favorite for the Superbowl. But I’d rather see the games be played instead of making prognostications. We all saw what the events that took place during Superbowl XLII . And it certainly left a a bitter taste in the palates of a great many New England Patriots’ fans. And for this this particular fan it was a somber moment indeed ! It is most certainly not an event that I’d like to revisit again !

There’s No Fool Like An Old Fool So How’d You Describe Ocho Cinco ?

Say it with me now ….”there’s no fool like an old fool ! ” How else can one really describe the antics of the Cincinnati Bengals and that of their wide receiver Chad Ocho Cinco ? This guy now gets more press time , airtime and tv time for his antics off the field than anything he’s done recently on it . But the again we are talking about the lovable , bumbling and underperforming Cincinnati Bengals.

Chad Ocho leaves the field after another disappointing loss during the regular season. The Cincinnati Bengals finished the season with an uninspiring 4-11-1 record for the season in the AFC North. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Matt Mayhew .....................

Now comes the hard part for a Marvin Lewis coached team that for all sense and purpose is on its last legs, when it comes to being viewed as competitive team within the NFL. After an uninspired season last year where it finished with a woefully inept record of 4-11-1 within the AFC North . And bearing mind that for much if last season they were without starting quarterback Carson Palmer . One might excuse the efforts of the team as a whole. Palmer was replaced by his backup Ryan Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick played the majority of the season , compiling 13 of the 16 regualr season games played.

Bengals' wideout Chad Ocho Cinco looks to remain in the endzone despite the defensive effort of the Jaguars' Rashean Mathis (27) during the play. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Brian Charles ....................

And with the franchise’s continuous off the field problems. In terms of the numerous incidents involving law enforcement. It’d be appropriate to say that the most ardent of Bengals’ fans witnessed more action off the field than they ever saw on it during the regular season. And what one can glean from this all , is that this team and the organization underperformed to such an extent. That one can only surmise that things can’t get any worse for the franchise. The Cincinnati Bengals as a franchise has made itself the laughing stock of the entire NFL. One might’ve said of their instate counterpart the Cleveland Browns. But as we all know what represents a winning season for the Browns is actually to have their stadium filled to capacity during their home games. Ineptitude has definitely become the norm in the state of Ohio when it comes to the state’s NFL franchises of recent times.

Bengals' quarterback Carson Palmer (left) takes question from the convened press after the team's first voluntary workouts in March held at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati,Oh., Also in picture is the team's coach Marvin Lewis. picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Dave Kohl .............

With the preseason just around the corner Ocho Cinco’s latest gimmick is to let the world know how much he likes to “Twitter” . And that during the preseason and regular season games. He’ll be using the device to be keep in contact with his subscribers wherever they are and to let them know how he’s doing. Now if you’re an ardent Bengals’ fan you’ll either be peturbed by his latest antics. Or you’re liable to just brush it off as just another ruse and stunt to keep his face in the in-front of the public to vie for their attention.

The narcissist in Ocho Cinco makes sure that we need to know who is , where he is and what he’s said to be doing at all times. Remind you of anyone in particular ? He’s now said to be playing for North America’s team. Ocho like his erstwhile counterpart Terrell Owens loves the glare of the spotlight, just as much any other primadonna athlete. Though it must be said that Owens has been far more productive a player despite the controversy of his stay in Dallas with the Cowboys. Ocho for his part has whined about his wish either to be traded or at times just to be shown more respect by the organization. Well he ought to remember that respect is a two way street. It has to be earned before it can be given. Thus far he has done little to earn the respect of the fans, much less the Bengals’ organization.

Considering that it wasn’t that long ago that the Bengals were being talked about as a legitimate contender for a playoff berth. And also perhaps as a perennial contender within the AFC North Division as a divisonal champion. What has led to their fall from grace, may well have been complacency on the part of the players as well as Lewis’ coaching and that of the recurring injuries to several key players on the team’s roster. Disciplinary wise also , Lewis has been less than forthright in demanding accountability for his players’ actions both on and off the field. And obviously when left to their own devices . The players are about as trustworthy as Josef Mengele was at the Nazi death camps during the Second World War.

This upcoming season not only will Chad Ocho Cinco be seeking redemption . But also too will be the entire Bengals organization in large part. They’ve continued to unserachieve. Meanwhile Ocho continues to crave the limelight at the expense of his teammates and team camarderie . Leadership on this Bengals’ team is about as easy to spot as it would be surmise when and where there’ll be peace in the Middle East. Absolutely no one on the team is prepared to assume that leadership role. Carson Palmer for all all of his unassuming demeanor is no more than his successor at USC , Matt Leinart, just another pretty boy on the field. And whose assumed leadership skills both on and off the field have been about as welcoming as the bubonic plague.

Bengals' running back edric Benson look to evade the defense in an NFL game . picture appears courtesy of ap/photo/ Scott Thompson ......

As to the fate of the Bengals this upcoming season. Where they’ll have to contend with the reigning Superbowl champions the Pittsburgh Steelers within the AFC North. As well as with their other divsional rivals in the guise of the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns. It can be said that they should they fail to acquit themselves adequately this upcoming season. We may well see the parting of the ways of the coach as well as perhaps the team’s most vocal player. And even with the desired belief that the team did relatively well in the NFL Draft. Where their most impressive acquistion was that of Trojans’ linebacker Rey Maualuga . It has to be said that there’ll have to be immediate returns not only this particular draftee. But also several of their other acquistions if this team is to really fare well.