Friday, October 5, 2007
Friday, September 14, 2007
Detrimental Conduct to the League?
Let me start by saying I have no problem admitting that what Micheal Vick did was a heinous and awful act. Dogs should never be treated that way, and I beleive that the way in which Micheal Vick's actions have been disciplined have been appropriate thus far.
Bill Belicheck's however have not.
When Commissioner Roger Goodell ruled that Micheal Vick be suspended due to his actions which were "..detrimental to the welfare of the NFL and have violated the League's Personal Conduct Policy.." he was correct and justified in his indefinate suspension of Micheal Vick. What Micheal Vick was involved in was tarnishing to both the league's image and reputation, and was in full deservance of the suspension that was handed down.
Now, when I look at what Bill Belicheck has been convicted/caught doing by the league, I'm hard pressed to differentiate which act is more "detrimental" to the league. Sure, what Vick did was terrible, but in reality did very little to affect or damage the game of football, and the sport that the NFL markets. Yes, his actions had an affect on the image of the league, but had very little to no effect on the product that is being sold on the field. However, what Belicheck has done has hurt the credibility and legitimacy of the league. His actions have brought into question the fairness of the NFL game, and whether or not coaches are cheating or playing fair.
I beleive football is one of the greatest sports on earth. I enjoy the strategy and planning that can be exerted in football while still remaining on a level playing field. It is fun because it is fair, and it is great because it pits several great athletes against each other and forces them to use tremendous athleticism and strength to defeat their opponent. But all this is for not, if coaches and players are cheating. When a coach does what Belicheck has done, it changes the game. It takes away value from the game, and taints the image of the league.
So why hasn't Belicheck been treated the same way Micheal Vick was treated?
Belicheck has been given a slap on the wrist by being given a $500,000 fine and losing what will likely be a first round draft choice. To a man who makes 6 million dollars a year from his salary alone, not to mention the numerous speaking arrangements and book royalties he receives, this is a joke.
In my opinion, Bill Belicheck's conduct has been far more "detrimental to the League". I'm not saying what Micheal Vick did was right, this time Goodell has acted differently because there's noone like P.E.T.A. staning on his doorstep.
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Also, I think it's worth noting that Robert Kraft (owner of the New England Patriots) was the head man of a group of owners who lobbied for Roger Goodell as Commissioner. Coincidence?
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Bill Belicheck's however have not.
When Commissioner Roger Goodell ruled that Micheal Vick be suspended due to his actions which were "..detrimental to the welfare of the NFL and have violated the League's Personal Conduct Policy.." he was correct and justified in his indefinate suspension of Micheal Vick. What Micheal Vick was involved in was tarnishing to both the league's image and reputation, and was in full deservance of the suspension that was handed down.
Now, when I look at what Bill Belicheck has been convicted/caught doing by the league, I'm hard pressed to differentiate which act is more "detrimental" to the league. Sure, what Vick did was terrible, but in reality did very little to affect or damage the game of football, and the sport that the NFL markets. Yes, his actions had an affect on the image of the league, but had very little to no effect on the product that is being sold on the field. However, what Belicheck has done has hurt the credibility and legitimacy of the league. His actions have brought into question the fairness of the NFL game, and whether or not coaches are cheating or playing fair.
I beleive football is one of the greatest sports on earth. I enjoy the strategy and planning that can be exerted in football while still remaining on a level playing field. It is fun because it is fair, and it is great because it pits several great athletes against each other and forces them to use tremendous athleticism and strength to defeat their opponent. But all this is for not, if coaches and players are cheating. When a coach does what Belicheck has done, it changes the game. It takes away value from the game, and taints the image of the league.
So why hasn't Belicheck been treated the same way Micheal Vick was treated?
Belicheck has been given a slap on the wrist by being given a $500,000 fine and losing what will likely be a first round draft choice. To a man who makes 6 million dollars a year from his salary alone, not to mention the numerous speaking arrangements and book royalties he receives, this is a joke.
In my opinion, Bill Belicheck's conduct has been far more "detrimental to the League". I'm not saying what Micheal Vick did was right, this time Goodell has acted differently because there's noone like P.E.T.A. staning on his doorstep.
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Also, I think it's worth noting that Robert Kraft (owner of the New England Patriots) was the head man of a group of owners who lobbied for Roger Goodell as Commissioner. Coincidence?
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Friday, August 31, 2007
Matt's NFL Predictions
To follow Luke's suit, I will also make my own NFL predictions. It's important that I go on record and make my predictions as it's important to have something to reference when your gloating over your good friend Luke about how your predictions were so much better than his.
I'd like to do a divisional breakdown, and predict the record for each team in each division. I will also do a Playoff prediction, and Superbowl prediction, and shock and awe all of you that take the time to read this.
Just remember, that come February when these teams are the teams in the Superbowl, you'll know where you saw it first: The Game Day Radio Blog.
Also, just as a preface to my predictions, it is important to understand that even though I am an adamant Chargers fan, in no way did that influence my predictions.
AFC North
Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)
-Despite being only two years removed from a Superbowl victory, the departures of several key veterans such as Jerry Porter and Jerome Bettis have crippled this team and removed them from possible playoff contention.
Clevland Browns (4-12)
-Clevland had an amazing draft this year and added several peices of the puzzle that will help this team acheive success in the future, but those peices are not enough to make a significant difference this year.
Baltimore Ravens (13-3)
-The dominance of this defence coupled with the experience of Steve McNair create one of the most dominant forces in the NFL. With McNair having one year's experience under his belt with this offence, it's only going to get better.
Cinncinati Bengals (11-5)
-With what could be the most dangerous arsenal of weapons in the NFL, this offense has the opportunity to outscore opponents game in and game out. Despite what they lack on defense, this offense will manage to make this team a winner in '07.
AFC West
Denver Broncos (8-8)
-Several prognosticators beleive this team will be a winner in 07. I, however beleive that even with the significant upgrades this team has made (Dre Bly, Travis Henry) they still do not have enough talent to outplay their divisional rivals, and still lack talent and youth on the defensive side of the ball.
Kansas City Cheifs (4-12)
-The loss of their best passer and key components to their offensive line, leave this team crippled and in obvious rebuilding mode. Count on the Cheifs to lose alot of games, and try and rely on the run. These 4 wins might be a high estimate for this depleted Cheifs team.
Oakland Raiders (5-11)
-These team lost their "bed and breakfast" mentality and will actually show up to play football this year. There only one direction to go after scoring 12 TD's in a year and that's up. Count on Daunte Culpepper and Josh McCowen to thrive under Lane Kiffin's new leadership and give this offense some life. Adding life to the offense should allow this impecible defense to win games.
San Diego Chargers (14-2)
-Expect this team to start up where they left off last year. They are the most talented team in the league, both on offense and defense and have consistently been able to answer any questions that have faced them. Look to LT to have a big year as this team goes on to not only win their division, but the Superbowl.
Miami Dolphins (4-12)
-Despite picking up Trent Green, this team has an aged defense, a patchy O-line, a running back the coach doesn't like and not to mention, that coach is a new head coach with a whole new staff. Let's chalk it up to "transition year".
New York Jets (9-7)
-It's hard not to like Mangenius, and the immediate change he brought to this team last year is sure to carry over. Their O-line is young and talented, they've added a work-horse running back, and their defense is one more year into a new 3-4 defense. Expect good things.
Buffalo Bills (7-9)
-The talent on this team is surprising, but they face a tough schedule and are seated in a very tough division. Look to J.P. Losman to have another great year, but there are still some positions on this team that need to be seasoned.
NFC North
Detroit Lions (6-10)
-The Lions picked up several great players in this years draft, but I don't see those players making that much of a difference yet. Mike Martz's offense will win them a few games because of the talent they have on offense, but this defense is still patchy at best.
Green Bay Packers (7-9)
-Many people overlook this defense, but it has as much talent as any in the league. The problem on this team will be the lack of offensive weapons and the aging, indecisive quarterback.
Minnesota Vikings (4-12)
-Where do you start with this team? There is no quarterback, no real receivers and they lost the coach on defense that made them stout. Better luck next year Vikes.
Chicago Bears (12-4)
-The Bears face some tough divisions on their schedule this year, but this team is still loaded with talent on defense, and Sexy Rexy should be improved with one full year under his belt. You'll see this team in the Superbowl again this year.
NFC West
San Francisco 49ers (10-6)
-The Niners should be a far improved team. With significant upgrades on defense in the offseason and the extra year of seasoning for the offense, this team should be primed to win alot of games, especially within their division.
Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
-The Cardinals are arguably the most talented team on the offensive side of the ball in the NFL. The only problem is that that potential has never been acheived. With the new guidance of Wizzy and Grimm, the Cards will win alot of games this year.
St. Louis Rams (8-8)
-The hands of time have not been generous to this team. Each year they get older and their divisional rivals get younger. It's hard to get a real good feel for how good or bad this team is, but I expect them to run in the middle of the pack.
Seattle Seahawks (6-10)
-This team has fallen in the same boat as their division rival Rams. They are aging and depleted and just one more year further from their Superbowl appearance. If Alexander can stay healthy (which he won't) their record could be slightly better, but I'm not sold.
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons (3-13)
-The Atlanta Falcons will be the worst team in the NFL this year. With Vick this team was maybe an 8-8 team. Without him they don't have a chance. Harrington will crash and burn like he did last year. Hopefully a good guy like Leftwich can steer clear of Hotlanta.
Carolina Panthers (10-6)
-The Panthers are sexy on defense, and with a little punch from Delhomme and Smith, this team should be sailing to a successful season. They will face the teams in their division which will help pad the record, but this team is better than their record showed last year.
New Orleans Saints (10-6)
-I'm not suggesting the Saints were a flame in the pan, but teams will actually see them coming this year. Expect defenses to still struggle containing all their weapons, but at least have a plan in place. Improvements on defense will also help this team out.
Tampa Bay Bucanneers (4-12)
-If Jeff Garcia was the answer to a terrible season, get ready for another one. This may be Gruden's last year in gold and red too, as the Bucs should struggle to keep pace with any team in the league. Their defense is old and battered, but should win them 4 games.
NFC East
Washington Redskins (6-10)
-I still beleive this team had an off year last year, and they were better than their record showed, but once I sat down with the schedule I was hard pressed to give this team more than 6 wins. Campbell should impress but across the board they look fairly bland.
Dallas Cowboys (9-7)
-Finally having a decent arm under centre should help the Cowboys, and their defense will still be stellar. With Wade Phillips in town expect huge things from Demarcus Ware, but this division always plays tough, so I'm hard pressed to put them in the playoffs.
New York Giants (5-11)
-If I could find someone in New York with any type of leadership capabilities, I think this team would have more wins, but it seems that noone can survive the media pressure that exists in New York, and this team seems to be falling apart at all the seams. Good luck GMEN.
Philadelphia Eagles (11-5)
-If McNabb and Westbrook stay healthy this team dominates. If not, count their division rival Cowboys in for the playoffs. The Eagles have the ability to stifle on defense and move the ball incredibly well on offense.
For the Playoffs:
AFC Bye's: Chargers, Ravens NFC Bye's: Chicago, Philly
AFC Wildcards: NFC Wildcards:
Patriots vs Jaguars Saints vs Cardinals
Colts vs Bengals Panthers vs 49ers
AFC Champs: Chargers NFC Champs: Bears
Superbowl Champs: Chargers (Ok, fine I'm baised.) But for real.
I'd like to do a divisional breakdown, and predict the record for each team in each division. I will also do a Playoff prediction, and Superbowl prediction, and shock and awe all of you that take the time to read this.
Just remember, that come February when these teams are the teams in the Superbowl, you'll know where you saw it first: The Game Day Radio Blog.
Also, just as a preface to my predictions, it is important to understand that even though I am an adamant Chargers fan, in no way did that influence my predictions.
AFC North
Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)
-Despite being only two years removed from a Superbowl victory, the departures of several key veterans such as Jerry Porter and Jerome Bettis have crippled this team and removed them from possible playoff contention.
Clevland Browns (4-12)
-Clevland had an amazing draft this year and added several peices of the puzzle that will help this team acheive success in the future, but those peices are not enough to make a significant difference this year.
Baltimore Ravens (13-3)
-The dominance of this defence coupled with the experience of Steve McNair create one of the most dominant forces in the NFL. With McNair having one year's experience under his belt with this offence, it's only going to get better.
Cinncinati Bengals (11-5)
-With what could be the most dangerous arsenal of weapons in the NFL, this offense has the opportunity to outscore opponents game in and game out. Despite what they lack on defense, this offense will manage to make this team a winner in '07.
AFC West
Denver Broncos (8-8)
-Several prognosticators beleive this team will be a winner in 07. I, however beleive that even with the significant upgrades this team has made (Dre Bly, Travis Henry) they still do not have enough talent to outplay their divisional rivals, and still lack talent and youth on the defensive side of the ball.
Kansas City Cheifs (4-12)
-The loss of their best passer and key components to their offensive line, leave this team crippled and in obvious rebuilding mode. Count on the Cheifs to lose alot of games, and try and rely on the run. These 4 wins might be a high estimate for this depleted Cheifs team.
Oakland Raiders (5-11)
-These team lost their "bed and breakfast" mentality and will actually show up to play football this year. There only one direction to go after scoring 12 TD's in a year and that's up. Count on Daunte Culpepper and Josh McCowen to thrive under Lane Kiffin's new leadership and give this offense some life. Adding life to the offense should allow this impecible defense to win games.
San Diego Chargers (14-2)
-Expect this team to start up where they left off last year. They are the most talented team in the league, both on offense and defense and have consistently been able to answer any questions that have faced them. Look to LT to have a big year as this team goes on to not only win their division, but the Superbowl.
AFC South
Indianapolis Colts (11-5)
-This offense will continue to be dominant, and the defense will play like they did most of last season. They will still win some games, but it's gonna take some major upgrades on defense before this team is back in the Superbowl.
Tennessee Titans (6-10)
-This team is loaded with "young" talent, but with the loss of their best CB, and no real offensive weapons besides their quarterback, this team will struggle to keep pace with one of the best divisions in football.
Houston Texans (8-8)
-Expect big things from the team that has been rebuilding for six years. With a solid arm behind centre, and another year of experience for a young defense this team will surprise alot of people and come close to making the wild card. But only close.
Jacksonville Jaguars (10-6)
-This team has been built to win for a few years now, but for whatever reason, they have struggled. With the starting quaterback just set in stone yesterday, this team should be able to win alot of games on the consistency of the offense and the dominance of the defense.
AFC East
New England Patriots (12-4)
-Having probably made the best upgrades of any team in the league, the Patriots are favored by many to win the Superbowl. In my opinion, the offense will be impecible, but the age on defense will hurt this team down the stretch.Miami Dolphins (4-12)
-Despite picking up Trent Green, this team has an aged defense, a patchy O-line, a running back the coach doesn't like and not to mention, that coach is a new head coach with a whole new staff. Let's chalk it up to "transition year".
New York Jets (9-7)
-It's hard not to like Mangenius, and the immediate change he brought to this team last year is sure to carry over. Their O-line is young and talented, they've added a work-horse running back, and their defense is one more year into a new 3-4 defense. Expect good things.
Buffalo Bills (7-9)
-The talent on this team is surprising, but they face a tough schedule and are seated in a very tough division. Look to J.P. Losman to have another great year, but there are still some positions on this team that need to be seasoned.
NFC North
Detroit Lions (6-10)
-The Lions picked up several great players in this years draft, but I don't see those players making that much of a difference yet. Mike Martz's offense will win them a few games because of the talent they have on offense, but this defense is still patchy at best.
Green Bay Packers (7-9)
-Many people overlook this defense, but it has as much talent as any in the league. The problem on this team will be the lack of offensive weapons and the aging, indecisive quarterback.
Minnesota Vikings (4-12)
-Where do you start with this team? There is no quarterback, no real receivers and they lost the coach on defense that made them stout. Better luck next year Vikes.
Chicago Bears (12-4)
-The Bears face some tough divisions on their schedule this year, but this team is still loaded with talent on defense, and Sexy Rexy should be improved with one full year under his belt. You'll see this team in the Superbowl again this year.
NFC West
San Francisco 49ers (10-6)
-The Niners should be a far improved team. With significant upgrades on defense in the offseason and the extra year of seasoning for the offense, this team should be primed to win alot of games, especially within their division.
Arizona Cardinals (10-6)
-The Cardinals are arguably the most talented team on the offensive side of the ball in the NFL. The only problem is that that potential has never been acheived. With the new guidance of Wizzy and Grimm, the Cards will win alot of games this year.
St. Louis Rams (8-8)
-The hands of time have not been generous to this team. Each year they get older and their divisional rivals get younger. It's hard to get a real good feel for how good or bad this team is, but I expect them to run in the middle of the pack.
Seattle Seahawks (6-10)
-This team has fallen in the same boat as their division rival Rams. They are aging and depleted and just one more year further from their Superbowl appearance. If Alexander can stay healthy (which he won't) their record could be slightly better, but I'm not sold.
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons (3-13)
-The Atlanta Falcons will be the worst team in the NFL this year. With Vick this team was maybe an 8-8 team. Without him they don't have a chance. Harrington will crash and burn like he did last year. Hopefully a good guy like Leftwich can steer clear of Hotlanta.
Carolina Panthers (10-6)
-The Panthers are sexy on defense, and with a little punch from Delhomme and Smith, this team should be sailing to a successful season. They will face the teams in their division which will help pad the record, but this team is better than their record showed last year.
New Orleans Saints (10-6)
-I'm not suggesting the Saints were a flame in the pan, but teams will actually see them coming this year. Expect defenses to still struggle containing all their weapons, but at least have a plan in place. Improvements on defense will also help this team out.
Tampa Bay Bucanneers (4-12)
-If Jeff Garcia was the answer to a terrible season, get ready for another one. This may be Gruden's last year in gold and red too, as the Bucs should struggle to keep pace with any team in the league. Their defense is old and battered, but should win them 4 games.
NFC East
Washington Redskins (6-10)
-I still beleive this team had an off year last year, and they were better than their record showed, but once I sat down with the schedule I was hard pressed to give this team more than 6 wins. Campbell should impress but across the board they look fairly bland.
Dallas Cowboys (9-7)
-Finally having a decent arm under centre should help the Cowboys, and their defense will still be stellar. With Wade Phillips in town expect huge things from Demarcus Ware, but this division always plays tough, so I'm hard pressed to put them in the playoffs.
New York Giants (5-11)
-If I could find someone in New York with any type of leadership capabilities, I think this team would have more wins, but it seems that noone can survive the media pressure that exists in New York, and this team seems to be falling apart at all the seams. Good luck GMEN.
Philadelphia Eagles (11-5)
-If McNabb and Westbrook stay healthy this team dominates. If not, count their division rival Cowboys in for the playoffs. The Eagles have the ability to stifle on defense and move the ball incredibly well on offense.
For the Playoffs:
AFC Bye's: Chargers, Ravens NFC Bye's: Chicago, Philly
AFC Wildcards: NFC Wildcards:
Patriots vs Jaguars Saints vs Cardinals
Colts vs Bengals Panthers vs 49ers
AFC Champs: Chargers NFC Champs: Bears
Superbowl Champs: Chargers (Ok, fine I'm baised.) But for real.
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