It has been a long time guys. I wanted to thank you all for reading this blog and helping me along the way. Currently, I have been writing for a couple other sites that you guys should check out. Unfortunately, a lot of my time and best writing goes to them. Any support you can give me and my articles on those sites is greatly appreciated. I am trying to get into this crazy business and it would definitely help if others showed their support threw likes, tweets, and g+'s. I will still be updating this site periodically, but I just wanted to let you know why I haven't been posting. You can check out the other sites at:
http://bengalsarmchairnation.blogspot.com
http://redsarmchairnation.blogspot.com
http://stripehype.com
and to just read my stripe hype articles:
http://stripehype.com/author/melpayne/
You can also follow me on twitter for updates to articles or general Bengals information at:
@melpayne54
Or my Facebook page at:
The Growl - Cincinnati Bengals Fans
Thanks again, everyone! Who Dey!
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Anderson Out, Gilberry In
Everyone who watched the game on Sunday took a collective sigh when once again, another injury stopped the game for the Bengals Defense. This time it was backup DE Jamaal Anderson laying out on the field. This is an area where we are already very thin. It wasn't very encouraging either, when he had to be carted off of the field. After the team doctors had a chance to look at Anderson's leg, it was determined that he tore the quad tendon just above his right knee. The Bengals wasted no time getting him on the season ending Injured Reserve list, so that they would be able to sign a replacement immediately. That replacement is coming in the form of Wallace Gilberry by way of Tampa Bay. We seem to really like their guys as of late, with Faine being picked up just a few weeks ago to fill in at Center for Cook.
So Bengal fans, meet your new Bengal:
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 275 lbs
College: Alabama
Gilberry started his NFL career with Kansas City in 2008. He stayed with them until the 2011 season, playing in 54 games which included 1 postseason game. He played in every game from 2009-2011, racking up 14 career sacks (he is pictured above sacking Brady, causing a fumble), 4 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 5 passes batted down, and 46 tackles. Gilberry was released by the Chiefs following the 2011 season and was signed with Tampa Bay to begin 2012. He started the season with the Bucs on the inactive list and was just released on Friday. Which was a good thing for the Bengals, since another one of the already ravished DE's went down.
The Bengals also hope to get Dunlap back from injury this week. He has been out with a knee injury since the 1st preseason game of 2012 against the Jets. Dunlap has been back to practicing with the team and seems to have recovered well enough to get back into the game. This is also a relief for Michael Johnson who has had to play 90% of the snaps in games, making him too tired to pass rush when it is needed in the fourth quarter. If Dunlap does make it back off of the injured list, that will give the Bengals 4 healthy DE's in Geathers, Johnson, Gilberry, and Dunlap. With the Defense playing the way that they are lately, anything helps. Let's see what you got Gilberry! Who Dey!
So Bengal fans, meet your new Bengal:
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 275 lbs
College: Alabama
Gilberry started his NFL career with Kansas City in 2008. He stayed with them until the 2011 season, playing in 54 games which included 1 postseason game. He played in every game from 2009-2011, racking up 14 career sacks (he is pictured above sacking Brady, causing a fumble), 4 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 5 passes batted down, and 46 tackles. Gilberry was released by the Chiefs following the 2011 season and was signed with Tampa Bay to begin 2012. He started the season with the Bucs on the inactive list and was just released on Friday. Which was a good thing for the Bengals, since another one of the already ravished DE's went down.
The Bengals also hope to get Dunlap back from injury this week. He has been out with a knee injury since the 1st preseason game of 2012 against the Jets. Dunlap has been back to practicing with the team and seems to have recovered well enough to get back into the game. This is also a relief for Michael Johnson who has had to play 90% of the snaps in games, making him too tired to pass rush when it is needed in the fourth quarter. If Dunlap does make it back off of the injured list, that will give the Bengals 4 healthy DE's in Geathers, Johnson, Gilberry, and Dunlap. With the Defense playing the way that they are lately, anything helps. Let's see what you got Gilberry! Who Dey!
Monday, September 17, 2012
Is A Win A Win?
Is a win a win? Sure it looks good on paper. It moves your team to the top of charts. They are celebrated by sports writers and announcers. The fans cheer their heroes. But is a win always a win? In the case of yesterdays Bengals home opener against the Browns, that answer is no. The Bengals came away with a victory of 34-27. They held the lead the entire game. It was their first win of the season, but it was not a win for the whole team. I have heard people split down the middle. For those fans that follow their team, but not football as a skill sport, the win is great. They were dancing in the streets. In fact, my fellow Bengal fan that joined me at Paul Brown Stadium last Sunday was ecstatic about the team's victory. On the other side of the split, are fans like me and maybe you. I left the game disappointed, concerned, and frustrated out of my mind. Which side are you on? Are you satisfied with the win because it is a win or do you want more from your team?
After an inconsistent start to the season last Monday night in Baltimore, the offense really stepped it up this week. Andy Dalton made more precise throws. You could tell that was something he and the receiving corp worked on last week in practice. He did still overthrow his receivers a few times on the long balls, but overall it was a drastic improvement. Now if we can get him to improve week after week and stay consistent with his throwing habits, we will be in good shape for the season. For Dalton to throw those tough on-target passes, though, the line is going to have to continue to get better at protecting him. This week, they were a little less together against the defensive line of the Browns, allowing the quarterback to be sacked a total of 6 times. If that is happening against the Browns, wait until we play the Steelers. The schedule is not an easy one this season and that includes our own AFC North opponents. So this line is going to have to get better. The inexperience combined with the youth on the Offensive Line for the Bengals is bound to improve with more playing time together in game situations. They aren't horrible, but they need to step it up. On that same note, Green-Ellis had another great game. No fumbles and 75 hard fought running yards. In my opinion, he could have gotten to triple digit numbers on the ground if the line could have held their blocks better. If he is already doing that well on his legs, imagine what he can do behind an improved line. He joined the receiving corps this week with 3 receptions for 30 yards. Speaking of the receiving crew...they came to play on Sunday. Dalton spread the ball around and the fans were finally able to see what everyone was raving about with Tate and Binns in training camp. Tate came up big with 71 yards and a touchdown, Binns had 66 yards, and Green got in the mix with 58 yards and a touchdown. No wide receiver was more mesmerizing than Andrew Hawkins, though. The young receiver had 2 receptions for 56 yards and his first NFL touchdown of his career. He had an impressive 51 yard catch and run that still has fans talking. He is really stepping up since Shipley's departure and looks to be the new safety net for Dalton. He has good field vision and is quite possibly the best current receiver for yards gained after the catch on the team. Gresham also got in the mix with 37 yards. If it needs to be noted that Baby Hawk is great after the catch, then I think it needs to be noted that Gresham is not so great after the catch. When he actually does catch the ball, he looks like a big, awkward kid going through a growth spurt that doesn't know how to use his body yet. He just sort of dangles for a moment like a big oaf and then falls. This is a large, strong man. Why can't he push through one guy for even one extra yard? What's Eating Jermaine Gresham? In a league where TE's are starting to rule the air, he is going to need to learn to run, catch, and be more confident with the pigskin. Currently, he has been a disappointment. I know a lot of you will hate me for saying that. He has a ton of fans. Please note, that this is the NFL and a guy is only as good as his last play. And Jermaine's last play looked like a 12 year old 6 footer that still can't use his legs or arms. In the spirit of our friends at ESPN, "C'mon Man"!
While the offense improved drastically, the defense remained the same. They somehow managed to allow even more yards this week than the disturbing game in Baltimore where they deteriorated before all of our eyes on national television. They gave Baltimore 430 yards and Cleveland 439. This cannot continue throughout the season. If the offense wouldn't have played the way they did and if PacMan didn't "nom, nom, nom" his way to a punt return for a score, then this game would have been a lot different. This is not a defense we can lean on. Hell, this is not a defense we can win with. They were the sole reason this win was not a win. Instead it was a scary reminder of how this season is going to end up if this defense isn't better. Unfortunately, I don't see a bright spot for them either. The Bengals Defense was spoken highly of all over sports before the season started. I was at camp, I saw the preseason games, they looked good. People said they were going to silently make their way to the top of the NFL rankings. Instead, they are very loudly making their way to the bottom of that list. The line allows run after run after run. They got no pressure on Weeden, who looked like crap last week against the Eagles and had a stellar rating with no interceptions in the Jungle. They couldn't hold them on a third down and they allowed them to score 27 points. The backfield, wait, do we even have a backfield? Mays sat out and Miles took over his spot and was pretty much a non factor the whole game. Nelson, the teams interception leader from last season, was barely even mentioned. Newman led the team in tackles, but you would never know, Clements was barely there, and does anyone know what is going on with Leon Hall. These guys blew coverage, they tackled poorly, and guys just weren't where they were supposed to be. Hall just really sticks out to me. He has got to go. We need to upgrade him immediately. Even his post game interviews anger me. I know we are waiting for Kirkpatrick to heal, but even when he does, he isn't going to be up to game speed. He is a rookie, has barely practiced, and certainly hasn't played in any kind of game situation since college. There has to be a better option and it has to be now. If not, we can all say goodbye to a winning season, the playoffs, and our dignity. The ship is sinking and the defense forgot the raft.
If you like to talk about the Bengals and want to stay up to date on current team information, like my Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/cincinnatibengalsfans
After an inconsistent start to the season last Monday night in Baltimore, the offense really stepped it up this week. Andy Dalton made more precise throws. You could tell that was something he and the receiving corp worked on last week in practice. He did still overthrow his receivers a few times on the long balls, but overall it was a drastic improvement. Now if we can get him to improve week after week and stay consistent with his throwing habits, we will be in good shape for the season. For Dalton to throw those tough on-target passes, though, the line is going to have to continue to get better at protecting him. This week, they were a little less together against the defensive line of the Browns, allowing the quarterback to be sacked a total of 6 times. If that is happening against the Browns, wait until we play the Steelers. The schedule is not an easy one this season and that includes our own AFC North opponents. So this line is going to have to get better. The inexperience combined with the youth on the Offensive Line for the Bengals is bound to improve with more playing time together in game situations. They aren't horrible, but they need to step it up. On that same note, Green-Ellis had another great game. No fumbles and 75 hard fought running yards. In my opinion, he could have gotten to triple digit numbers on the ground if the line could have held their blocks better. If he is already doing that well on his legs, imagine what he can do behind an improved line. He joined the receiving corps this week with 3 receptions for 30 yards. Speaking of the receiving crew...they came to play on Sunday. Dalton spread the ball around and the fans were finally able to see what everyone was raving about with Tate and Binns in training camp. Tate came up big with 71 yards and a touchdown, Binns had 66 yards, and Green got in the mix with 58 yards and a touchdown. No wide receiver was more mesmerizing than Andrew Hawkins, though. The young receiver had 2 receptions for 56 yards and his first NFL touchdown of his career. He had an impressive 51 yard catch and run that still has fans talking. He is really stepping up since Shipley's departure and looks to be the new safety net for Dalton. He has good field vision and is quite possibly the best current receiver for yards gained after the catch on the team. Gresham also got in the mix with 37 yards. If it needs to be noted that Baby Hawk is great after the catch, then I think it needs to be noted that Gresham is not so great after the catch. When he actually does catch the ball, he looks like a big, awkward kid going through a growth spurt that doesn't know how to use his body yet. He just sort of dangles for a moment like a big oaf and then falls. This is a large, strong man. Why can't he push through one guy for even one extra yard? What's Eating Jermaine Gresham? In a league where TE's are starting to rule the air, he is going to need to learn to run, catch, and be more confident with the pigskin. Currently, he has been a disappointment. I know a lot of you will hate me for saying that. He has a ton of fans. Please note, that this is the NFL and a guy is only as good as his last play. And Jermaine's last play looked like a 12 year old 6 footer that still can't use his legs or arms. In the spirit of our friends at ESPN, "C'mon Man"!
While the offense improved drastically, the defense remained the same. They somehow managed to allow even more yards this week than the disturbing game in Baltimore where they deteriorated before all of our eyes on national television. They gave Baltimore 430 yards and Cleveland 439. This cannot continue throughout the season. If the offense wouldn't have played the way they did and if PacMan didn't "nom, nom, nom" his way to a punt return for a score, then this game would have been a lot different. This is not a defense we can lean on. Hell, this is not a defense we can win with. They were the sole reason this win was not a win. Instead it was a scary reminder of how this season is going to end up if this defense isn't better. Unfortunately, I don't see a bright spot for them either. The Bengals Defense was spoken highly of all over sports before the season started. I was at camp, I saw the preseason games, they looked good. People said they were going to silently make their way to the top of the NFL rankings. Instead, they are very loudly making their way to the bottom of that list. The line allows run after run after run. They got no pressure on Weeden, who looked like crap last week against the Eagles and had a stellar rating with no interceptions in the Jungle. They couldn't hold them on a third down and they allowed them to score 27 points. The backfield, wait, do we even have a backfield? Mays sat out and Miles took over his spot and was pretty much a non factor the whole game. Nelson, the teams interception leader from last season, was barely even mentioned. Newman led the team in tackles, but you would never know, Clements was barely there, and does anyone know what is going on with Leon Hall. These guys blew coverage, they tackled poorly, and guys just weren't where they were supposed to be. Hall just really sticks out to me. He has got to go. We need to upgrade him immediately. Even his post game interviews anger me. I know we are waiting for Kirkpatrick to heal, but even when he does, he isn't going to be up to game speed. He is a rookie, has barely practiced, and certainly hasn't played in any kind of game situation since college. There has to be a better option and it has to be now. If not, we can all say goodbye to a winning season, the playoffs, and our dignity. The ship is sinking and the defense forgot the raft.
If you like to talk about the Bengals and want to stay up to date on current team information, like my Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/cincinnatibengalsfans
Friday, September 14, 2012
Heeeee's Baaaaaaack
With just two days until the sold-out home opener against the Browns, the Bengals are hitting the gridiron hard to prepare for another AFC North showdown. Coming off of an ugly loss against Baltimore last Monday night, the team knows this week they need to show up and get a win in front of their home crowd before people start counting them out as the Bengals of old. I, myself, am excited for this game to see what they can do. I am keeping my fingers crossed, like the rest of Who Dey Nation, that the Defense's performance was a fluke last week and they were just having first game jitters. I am also hopeful that the offense, though not as ugly as the defense, can step it up in crucial moments and make those catches.
BenJarvus Green-Ellis stands to have another great game against the Cleveland Browns this week, maybe even breaking into triple digit yards in rushing. Which is something, I know, in New England wasn't possible with their passing attack. I have been praising him all offseason since he was picked up and then last week, as he was the one guy who really came to play in Baltimore. Today, will be no different. I will admit, I was slightly nervous about him, even though I knew we was a good back. Not because of performance, but because of endurance. Let's face it, the Pats don't use the run often. Who needs it with future Hall of Famer Brady under center and 800 Tight Ends? So, with the Law Firm coming to Cincinnati and his number of touches becoming significantly more, I was concerned with the stamina issue. He is not used to all that action. It was even more nerve racking with Scott out and the non-existent running game in the preseason led by Leonard. As we all saw though, he was a work horse last week and I think this week will be no different. Expect him to be a huge threat this week to the Cleveland Defense.
There is another running back on all of our minds too this week. His name is Trent Richardson and though he was plagued with injuries during the offseason and he is just a rookie, with the way our D is playing, he has the ability to ravage us. He wants to do just that this week too. Richardson is coming in with a chip on his shoulder because of some words exchanged between him and Bengals MLB Maualuga. Maualuga said that Richardson didn't do anything "spectacular" in his NFL opener last week against the Eagles. Whether or not Maualuga meant it like that, which some are saying he meant it as he will probably do better this week, the Browns RB is mad and wants a piece of Rey and the Bengals Defense. "When somebody wants to talk mess, I mean, hey, that's them. I let my game speak for itself, so if they want to see how mad I am, or how upset they got me about the comment, you'll see Sunday," Richardson told The Cleveland Plain-Dealer. He went on to say, "He's right, I haven't done anything yet. Hopefully this weekend I can give him a little flavor of what I'm supposed to come into the NFL with, so I think stuff like that is funny. It's very encouraging." To Mr. Maualuga and the rest of the Cincinnati Bengals Defense, I would like to encourage you to keep your mouths shut until you play a good game. Hopefully, these words will amp us up and we will defend the Rey Maualuga comment. My fear is it will just amp up the wrong side.
Taylor Mays' punishment finally came down today from the NFL for his helmet to helmet hit in Baltimore. He has been ordered to pay a fine of $21,000.00 for his indiscretion. That is a lot of coin, at least to me and you, for a bad tackle. So hopefully he learns his lesson and can bridle his intense playing and hard hits. I like that he is so enthusiastic and makes these guys pay for the yards they make, but he has to keep his head up. This is why he injured two of our guys in the preseason. Another player occurrence to note this week, is LB Thomas Howard. He tore his ACL in practice on Thursday and is now declared out of the season. The team has moved him to the Injured Reserve list. This is a big hit on the D-Line. With this season ending injury, the Bengals have went back and re-signed LB Roddrick Muckelroy, who was with the team during the preseason. He had a good camp and did well in the preseason games. People thought that he would make the 53 man roster, but the team went on the side of youth with Burfict instead, leaving Muckelroy for the waiver wire. He was not eligible for the practice squad. Hopefully, he can help in filling our gaps. Lewis, however, has not named a starter at the position. So we will see, where he is used, if at all.
My prediction for this week's game is:
Cincinnati 17
Cleveland 10
What do you think of that prediction? Too high, too low? Reversed? I had originally thought we would blow them out, but while writing this, I started making myself nervous. So I will go with a sensible score and just hope that we are on the side of winning. After watching and listening to this past week's post game press conferences and locker room interviews, though. I wasn't that impressed. Besides for a few guys, it seemed like a lot of blame placed on bad officiating. There were even defensive guys that said they did what they were supposed to, they just came up short. Some of these guys seemed extremely off the mark all night. I want more seriousness, anger, or something. Sure they took blame to an extent, but aside from 3 guys, they didn't even seem that mad. I want them to be fired up and take full responsibility. Dalton did more than most, but he still thought officiating took away their momentum. I don't know what I wanted to see, but what that wasn't it. The two guys that really just said it came down to bad playing were Whitworth and Green-Ellis. Whitworth knew the line did their job but the offense just missed on key plays, to which I agree. Green-Ellis looked down right angry in his interview. Which makes me really happy because he knows what it is like to be a champion so maybe he can get these other guys in the right mind set to rip the Brownies come Sunday.
In other stadium news, the Bengals sent out a fan code of conduct today. Obviously, there are those fans that drink and get wild and there are naturally those that don't. When they get unruly, I get the jerk line. I have been on both sides there. Several times, I am sure my friends and I should have been called on, and when I was sober, I was completely annoyed at the idiots around me. So, this I understand. They are saying now, that they are also going to fight against excessive standing. Aside from preseason, I have not gone to a game where people did not stand the whole time. It is just what you do. They said some fans can't stand the whole time. That I get, but you have to know when you buy a live a game ticket that it is going to happen. I just don't know how or why they are going to police this. Is standing really hurting people that much.
Enjoy Sunday's game whether you are watching it at home or the rocking Jungle! Let's get the W! Who Dey!
BenJarvus Green-Ellis stands to have another great game against the Cleveland Browns this week, maybe even breaking into triple digit yards in rushing. Which is something, I know, in New England wasn't possible with their passing attack. I have been praising him all offseason since he was picked up and then last week, as he was the one guy who really came to play in Baltimore. Today, will be no different. I will admit, I was slightly nervous about him, even though I knew we was a good back. Not because of performance, but because of endurance. Let's face it, the Pats don't use the run often. Who needs it with future Hall of Famer Brady under center and 800 Tight Ends? So, with the Law Firm coming to Cincinnati and his number of touches becoming significantly more, I was concerned with the stamina issue. He is not used to all that action. It was even more nerve racking with Scott out and the non-existent running game in the preseason led by Leonard. As we all saw though, he was a work horse last week and I think this week will be no different. Expect him to be a huge threat this week to the Cleveland Defense.
There is another running back on all of our minds too this week. His name is Trent Richardson and though he was plagued with injuries during the offseason and he is just a rookie, with the way our D is playing, he has the ability to ravage us. He wants to do just that this week too. Richardson is coming in with a chip on his shoulder because of some words exchanged between him and Bengals MLB Maualuga. Maualuga said that Richardson didn't do anything "spectacular" in his NFL opener last week against the Eagles. Whether or not Maualuga meant it like that, which some are saying he meant it as he will probably do better this week, the Browns RB is mad and wants a piece of Rey and the Bengals Defense. "When somebody wants to talk mess, I mean, hey, that's them. I let my game speak for itself, so if they want to see how mad I am, or how upset they got me about the comment, you'll see Sunday," Richardson told The Cleveland Plain-Dealer. He went on to say, "He's right, I haven't done anything yet. Hopefully this weekend I can give him a little flavor of what I'm supposed to come into the NFL with, so I think stuff like that is funny. It's very encouraging." To Mr. Maualuga and the rest of the Cincinnati Bengals Defense, I would like to encourage you to keep your mouths shut until you play a good game. Hopefully, these words will amp us up and we will defend the Rey Maualuga comment. My fear is it will just amp up the wrong side.
Taylor Mays' punishment finally came down today from the NFL for his helmet to helmet hit in Baltimore. He has been ordered to pay a fine of $21,000.00 for his indiscretion. That is a lot of coin, at least to me and you, for a bad tackle. So hopefully he learns his lesson and can bridle his intense playing and hard hits. I like that he is so enthusiastic and makes these guys pay for the yards they make, but he has to keep his head up. This is why he injured two of our guys in the preseason. Another player occurrence to note this week, is LB Thomas Howard. He tore his ACL in practice on Thursday and is now declared out of the season. The team has moved him to the Injured Reserve list. This is a big hit on the D-Line. With this season ending injury, the Bengals have went back and re-signed LB Roddrick Muckelroy, who was with the team during the preseason. He had a good camp and did well in the preseason games. People thought that he would make the 53 man roster, but the team went on the side of youth with Burfict instead, leaving Muckelroy for the waiver wire. He was not eligible for the practice squad. Hopefully, he can help in filling our gaps. Lewis, however, has not named a starter at the position. So we will see, where he is used, if at all.
My prediction for this week's game is:
Cincinnati 17
Cleveland 10
What do you think of that prediction? Too high, too low? Reversed? I had originally thought we would blow them out, but while writing this, I started making myself nervous. So I will go with a sensible score and just hope that we are on the side of winning. After watching and listening to this past week's post game press conferences and locker room interviews, though. I wasn't that impressed. Besides for a few guys, it seemed like a lot of blame placed on bad officiating. There were even defensive guys that said they did what they were supposed to, they just came up short. Some of these guys seemed extremely off the mark all night. I want more seriousness, anger, or something. Sure they took blame to an extent, but aside from 3 guys, they didn't even seem that mad. I want them to be fired up and take full responsibility. Dalton did more than most, but he still thought officiating took away their momentum. I don't know what I wanted to see, but what that wasn't it. The two guys that really just said it came down to bad playing were Whitworth and Green-Ellis. Whitworth knew the line did their job but the offense just missed on key plays, to which I agree. Green-Ellis looked down right angry in his interview. Which makes me really happy because he knows what it is like to be a champion so maybe he can get these other guys in the right mind set to rip the Brownies come Sunday.
In other stadium news, the Bengals sent out a fan code of conduct today. Obviously, there are those fans that drink and get wild and there are naturally those that don't. When they get unruly, I get the jerk line. I have been on both sides there. Several times, I am sure my friends and I should have been called on, and when I was sober, I was completely annoyed at the idiots around me. So, this I understand. They are saying now, that they are also going to fight against excessive standing. Aside from preseason, I have not gone to a game where people did not stand the whole time. It is just what you do. They said some fans can't stand the whole time. That I get, but you have to know when you buy a live a game ticket that it is going to happen. I just don't know how or why they are going to police this. Is standing really hurting people that much.
Enjoy Sunday's game whether you are watching it at home or the rocking Jungle! Let's get the W! Who Dey!
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Don't Drop The Soap...
In the Cincinnati Bengals case last night (Monday September 10, 2012...remember this date forever), the team didn't need to drop the soap, they were laying on the shower floor helpless! So, in honor of the passing of our dignity and pride, let's take a moment of silence.................................................
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In case you missed it or your brain tucked it away to never be found again, the score for the opening game of the season, on Monday Night Football, in front of a national audience was:
Baltimore 44
Cincinnati 13
But don't fret Bengals fans, not only was it as bad as it looks, it broke some records for the team. Here we go: The Defense gave up the most amount of yards since December 2010 when the Saints got 436 on the Orange and Black, The Defense gave up the most points since November 2010 when the Bills hit the boys with 49, The defeat was the worst ever for Marvin Lewis as head coach of the Bengals on opening day, Oh, yeah, and one more. Here's a good one, Ed Reed became the NFL's All Time Leading Interception Return Yard Leader!!! Hip Hip Hooray!!!
So, let's start with the positives of the game. I know, after an ass whoopin like that in front of God and all creation it doesn't seem that there would be positives. But there are always positives my friends. So positive #1) The Offensive Line, filled with rookies, inexperienced players, and a man that was just selling insurance last month, held up well. This is definitely a surprise for people. Everyone thought if we struggled it would be here. However, Faine, didn't miss a beat and looked like he had Andy Dalton under Center his whole career. Zeitler got beat one time, when the game was already out of reach. Andy, for all of the inexperience really stayed safe in the pocket. Sure we were pressured here and there, but we were playing the number one D in the league. Positive #2) Andrew "Baby Hawk" Hawkins really stepped his game up. He was targeted often and was able to get some good, effective yards after the catch. I think his size might be an upside because he is so elusive and hard to get to. Positive #3) BenJarvus Green-Ellis got 91 yards rushing off of just 18 carries and a TD. This is very encouraging. He put out a lot of effort and made the tough yards, carrying guys if he had to. He didn't put the ball on the ground and he scraped for more and more every down. In two showings against this unrunnable Ravens D last year, Benson only rushed for 92 yards with 29 carries. People keep wondering if we upgraded and why we didn't pick up Bush. Well here is your answer. The Law Firm is quick, just as tough, has a nose for the endzone and hasn't fumbled ever in his NFL career. Well, that, and Bush was overweight when they worked him out. So the Law Firm also does not eat fast food. Positive #4) It is only week one. I know it left an ugly taste in our mouths, but there are still 15 more games to play. We lost week one last year and probably will again, so let's just dust ourselves off, get back on the horse and pray Leon Hall learns to cover!
See there were positives, I didn't disappoint did I? So now for the negatives. I am not going to number these. Mainly because it is depressing, but also because the D is to blame for 99%. Okay, so before blaming the D, let's start with Dalton. He was over throwing guys the whole game! These guys are tall and their arms are long, but we aren't dealing the Green Giant here man! I didn't even count his over throws because I was too angry. There is no reason for this. He needs to settle down and try to be more accurate. Also, if Green is double teamed...he isn't your guy. I am going to chuck it up to first game of the season jitters, but if this continues the next couple of games, Bengals fans should definitely be concerned. He seems like a nice a guy, but Palmer did too. Last year, more than a few of his completions were because the receivers went and got the ball for him, not because he made it easy with accuracy. I like him, but I would also really like to win. So, again, let's just chalk it up to jitters for now, but let's get to work on it. Now for the rest of the rest of the 500 negatives: Defense, Defense, Defense...We were supposed to be so awesome here. Everyone thought we would be in the top 5 talk this season. At least up front. Nope, I am not even sure if we can be included in the top 32 discussion at this point. I played the Bengals D last night in Fantasy Football and got -1 points. Really guys?!? Leon Hall got beat all night. He even dropped what should have been an interception. I don't know if he isn't really fully recovered from his injury last season or if he just can't keep up anymore. It was not pretty, though, and he should take a lot of the blame. Taylor Mays...let our offense get yards, don't help their offense get yards. This guys likes to hit and he likes to hit hard, just ask Maualuga and Burfict. He, however, still needs to keep his head up and not knock people out with helmet to helmet. This is exactly what he did in the Green Bay preseason game at Paul Brown Stadium and it can't keep happening. Fifteen yards is fifteen yards, that they didn't have to earn. And the line, well, Ray Rice didn't seem to have a problem with that.
Now, hopefully, the highly touted D can see you still have to work. It is not going to come easy. There is a goal line to protect if we are ever going to win or get anywhere. I don't know what the mental breakdown was this game. Maybe it was the coaching, maybe it was the players, probably it was both, but it has to get better. I am sure Zimmer is going to beat these guys up this week, which is obviously necessary. If I am this upset, I can only imagine how embarrassed he is.
But, it does get better Cincinnati. Next week we have those beloved Brownies from up north. Hopefully we bottle up this embarrassment and frustration and unleash the fury on them. However, I don't want to get too high if we do beat them. They are still just the Browns. We have a tough schedule this year, so from this game I am looking for confidence, not gloating. Not to mention, it may not be as easy as we think. Their Defense played Mike Vick and that Philadelphia Eagle offense really tight and should have come away with the win if it wasn't for their offense being so bad. Weeden had a horrible first showing at QB, right down to getting stuck under a giant flag! I will post the video below because watching this flag debacle never gets old:
Oh Brownies how your silliness makes my heart chuckle with delight. Who Dey!!
One more thing before I go tonight...Carson Palmer Lost!! Not only did he lose, he was booed at home in Oakland! Sorry, Suckers! Who Dey!!!!!
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In case you missed it or your brain tucked it away to never be found again, the score for the opening game of the season, on Monday Night Football, in front of a national audience was:
Baltimore 44
Cincinnati 13
But don't fret Bengals fans, not only was it as bad as it looks, it broke some records for the team. Here we go: The Defense gave up the most amount of yards since December 2010 when the Saints got 436 on the Orange and Black, The Defense gave up the most points since November 2010 when the Bills hit the boys with 49, The defeat was the worst ever for Marvin Lewis as head coach of the Bengals on opening day, Oh, yeah, and one more. Here's a good one, Ed Reed became the NFL's All Time Leading Interception Return Yard Leader!!! Hip Hip Hooray!!!
So, let's start with the positives of the game. I know, after an ass whoopin like that in front of God and all creation it doesn't seem that there would be positives. But there are always positives my friends. So positive #1) The Offensive Line, filled with rookies, inexperienced players, and a man that was just selling insurance last month, held up well. This is definitely a surprise for people. Everyone thought if we struggled it would be here. However, Faine, didn't miss a beat and looked like he had Andy Dalton under Center his whole career. Zeitler got beat one time, when the game was already out of reach. Andy, for all of the inexperience really stayed safe in the pocket. Sure we were pressured here and there, but we were playing the number one D in the league. Positive #2) Andrew "Baby Hawk" Hawkins really stepped his game up. He was targeted often and was able to get some good, effective yards after the catch. I think his size might be an upside because he is so elusive and hard to get to. Positive #3) BenJarvus Green-Ellis got 91 yards rushing off of just 18 carries and a TD. This is very encouraging. He put out a lot of effort and made the tough yards, carrying guys if he had to. He didn't put the ball on the ground and he scraped for more and more every down. In two showings against this unrunnable Ravens D last year, Benson only rushed for 92 yards with 29 carries. People keep wondering if we upgraded and why we didn't pick up Bush. Well here is your answer. The Law Firm is quick, just as tough, has a nose for the endzone and hasn't fumbled ever in his NFL career. Well, that, and Bush was overweight when they worked him out. So the Law Firm also does not eat fast food. Positive #4) It is only week one. I know it left an ugly taste in our mouths, but there are still 15 more games to play. We lost week one last year and probably will again, so let's just dust ourselves off, get back on the horse and pray Leon Hall learns to cover!
See there were positives, I didn't disappoint did I? So now for the negatives. I am not going to number these. Mainly because it is depressing, but also because the D is to blame for 99%. Okay, so before blaming the D, let's start with Dalton. He was over throwing guys the whole game! These guys are tall and their arms are long, but we aren't dealing the Green Giant here man! I didn't even count his over throws because I was too angry. There is no reason for this. He needs to settle down and try to be more accurate. Also, if Green is double teamed...he isn't your guy. I am going to chuck it up to first game of the season jitters, but if this continues the next couple of games, Bengals fans should definitely be concerned. He seems like a nice a guy, but Palmer did too. Last year, more than a few of his completions were because the receivers went and got the ball for him, not because he made it easy with accuracy. I like him, but I would also really like to win. So, again, let's just chalk it up to jitters for now, but let's get to work on it. Now for the rest of the rest of the 500 negatives: Defense, Defense, Defense...We were supposed to be so awesome here. Everyone thought we would be in the top 5 talk this season. At least up front. Nope, I am not even sure if we can be included in the top 32 discussion at this point. I played the Bengals D last night in Fantasy Football and got -1 points. Really guys?!? Leon Hall got beat all night. He even dropped what should have been an interception. I don't know if he isn't really fully recovered from his injury last season or if he just can't keep up anymore. It was not pretty, though, and he should take a lot of the blame. Taylor Mays...let our offense get yards, don't help their offense get yards. This guys likes to hit and he likes to hit hard, just ask Maualuga and Burfict. He, however, still needs to keep his head up and not knock people out with helmet to helmet. This is exactly what he did in the Green Bay preseason game at Paul Brown Stadium and it can't keep happening. Fifteen yards is fifteen yards, that they didn't have to earn. And the line, well, Ray Rice didn't seem to have a problem with that.
Now, hopefully, the highly touted D can see you still have to work. It is not going to come easy. There is a goal line to protect if we are ever going to win or get anywhere. I don't know what the mental breakdown was this game. Maybe it was the coaching, maybe it was the players, probably it was both, but it has to get better. I am sure Zimmer is going to beat these guys up this week, which is obviously necessary. If I am this upset, I can only imagine how embarrassed he is.
But, it does get better Cincinnati. Next week we have those beloved Brownies from up north. Hopefully we bottle up this embarrassment and frustration and unleash the fury on them. However, I don't want to get too high if we do beat them. They are still just the Browns. We have a tough schedule this year, so from this game I am looking for confidence, not gloating. Not to mention, it may not be as easy as we think. Their Defense played Mike Vick and that Philadelphia Eagle offense really tight and should have come away with the win if it wasn't for their offense being so bad. Weeden had a horrible first showing at QB, right down to getting stuck under a giant flag! I will post the video below because watching this flag debacle never gets old:
Oh Brownies how your silliness makes my heart chuckle with delight. Who Dey!!
One more thing before I go tonight...Carson Palmer Lost!! Not only did he lose, he was booed at home in Oakland! Sorry, Suckers! Who Dey!!!!!
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Hut Hut......
Sunday is almost here...Football all day! I have been waiting for this weekend all year. Last week was great with the start of college, Wednesday was a taste of things to come with the NFL Kickoff, but this weekend is where it is at! Saturday college, Sunday NFL Football all day and all night, and then the greatest day of all for us Bengals fans...Monday night Football Baby!! We are going to go to that Dirty Birds Nest and burn it down! Whooo! Who's with me?!?
This is also a very exciting time for the Bengals because the team is poised to sell out its first home game! Anyone who went last year when the team played the 49ers, knows that aside from the lower bowl, attendance was very spotty. This year they said they are only a couple of 1000 seats off from being sold out. Which is a plus, not only, for home team advantage but also because everyone who doesn't buy tickets will actually be able to see the team play on their local CBS affiliate. So I encourage everyone who reads this blog that can get to the stadium on Sunday to get there! Not to mention, if you know anyone with season tickets, you should hit them up to get cheaper tickets at their cost. The Bengals really want to sell this game out so that was the new offer to STH's. Let's do this Bengal Fans! Let's rock out the stadium and flush out those Brownies for the Battle of Ohio on September 16! Who Dey!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The official injury/inactives report won't come out until 90 minutes before game time. However, for those of you dying for knowledge, the current reports out there say that Dunlap has not practiced with the team, but has been doing his own drills on the side. It appears, though, that with Marvin's no practice, no play rule he will be out still on Monday night. Carlos is saying he is ready to play though, so he intends on finishing rehab and hopes to be re-evaluated to play. All signs point to no though. He is still suffering from his sprained knee that he suffered in the first preseason game against the Jets. Also, Jason Allen, has yet to practice after the quad injury that he suffered. Donald Lee was limited in practice, but is expected to play. Aside from that, no other reports have surfaced as of yet. I suppose to keep Baltimore guessing.
Here is the rest of the injury report leading up to today, not including today's practice. Remember nothing at this point is set in stone and this is the unofficial report. Nothing will be official until Monday afternoon:
Player POS INJ Thurs Pract. Fri Pract.
Jason Allen CB Quad Did Not Participate Limited Participation
Andy Dalton QB R. Bicep Full Participation Full Participation
Carlos Dunlap DE Knee Did Not Participate Did Not Participate
Robert Geathers DE Knee Full Participation Full Participation
Jermaine Gresham TE Knee Full Participation Full Participation
Dre Kirkpatrick CB Knee OUT OUT
Donald Lee TE Thigh Limited Participation Limited Participation
Bernard Scott RB Hand Did Not Participate Did Not Participate
Dan Skuta LB Head Full Participation Full Participation
This is also a very exciting time for the Bengals because the team is poised to sell out its first home game! Anyone who went last year when the team played the 49ers, knows that aside from the lower bowl, attendance was very spotty. This year they said they are only a couple of 1000 seats off from being sold out. Which is a plus, not only, for home team advantage but also because everyone who doesn't buy tickets will actually be able to see the team play on their local CBS affiliate. So I encourage everyone who reads this blog that can get to the stadium on Sunday to get there! Not to mention, if you know anyone with season tickets, you should hit them up to get cheaper tickets at their cost. The Bengals really want to sell this game out so that was the new offer to STH's. Let's do this Bengal Fans! Let's rock out the stadium and flush out those Brownies for the Battle of Ohio on September 16! Who Dey!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The official injury/inactives report won't come out until 90 minutes before game time. However, for those of you dying for knowledge, the current reports out there say that Dunlap has not practiced with the team, but has been doing his own drills on the side. It appears, though, that with Marvin's no practice, no play rule he will be out still on Monday night. Carlos is saying he is ready to play though, so he intends on finishing rehab and hopes to be re-evaluated to play. All signs point to no though. He is still suffering from his sprained knee that he suffered in the first preseason game against the Jets. Also, Jason Allen, has yet to practice after the quad injury that he suffered. Donald Lee was limited in practice, but is expected to play. Aside from that, no other reports have surfaced as of yet. I suppose to keep Baltimore guessing.
Here is the rest of the injury report leading up to today, not including today's practice. Remember nothing at this point is set in stone and this is the unofficial report. Nothing will be official until Monday afternoon:
Player POS INJ Thurs Pract. Fri Pract.
Jason Allen CB Quad Did Not Participate Limited Participation
Andy Dalton QB R. Bicep Full Participation Full Participation
Carlos Dunlap DE Knee Did Not Participate Did Not Participate
Robert Geathers DE Knee Full Participation Full Participation
Jermaine Gresham TE Knee Full Participation Full Participation
Dre Kirkpatrick CB Knee OUT OUT
Donald Lee TE Thigh Limited Participation Limited Participation
Bernard Scott RB Hand Did Not Participate Did Not Participate
Dan Skuta LB Head Full Participation Full Participation
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
They're Back
Wipe the sleep from your eyes football fans. What we have all been waiting for is finally here! The NFL Kickoff is just hours away. Every February, we all go in to hibernation, trying to hide our depression from our non understanding, significant others. We become scavengers, trying to dig up any taste of NFL news we can get. Well, scavenge no more, my fellow gridiron seeker. Our day has finally come! Our jerseys are finding their way out of the depths of our dark closets, we are dusting off our Sunday best, our beer is chilled, and the wings are marinating. Some of us are covering our faces tribal war colors, while others are gathering team themed rooms so not to taint ourselves with the outside world. That's right, we are back! Back to hope, back to thrills, back to fantasy, back to football!
In honor of our big day, I am going to offer up my predictions across the NFL. Though it is too hard to say what the actual end result for each individual team, I will try my best and rank them by division finish. Remember these are just my opinions and not to be taken as any more than that. I am not an expert, by any means. What do you think? Join in the discussion on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/cincinnatibengalsfans Or comment below. I know a lot of you are reading this, so let's get this conversation started. Agree, Disagree, Your own predictions?
This is going to really wow you too, because unlike Ryan Tannehill, a starting QB in league, I know all of the divisions and that there are only two conferences. Who Dey!
NFC
NFC North - Green Bay Packers 12-4
Chicago Bears 10-6
Detroit Lions 9-7
Minnesota Vikings 5-11
NFC South - New Orleans Saints 10-6
Carolina Panthers 9-7
Atlanta Falcons 9-7
Tampa Bay Bucs 7-9
NFC West - San Francisco 49er 10-6
St. Louis Rams 8-8
Seattle Seahawks 7-9
Arizona Cardinals 4-12
NFC East - New York Giants 10-6
Dallas Cowboys 9-7
Wash. Redskins 7-9
Philadelphia Eagles 7-9
AFC
AFC East - New England Pats 11-5
Buffalo Bills 9-7
New York Jets 8-8
Miami Dolphins 3-13
AFC West - SD Chargers 10-6
Denver Broncos 9-7
Tennessee Titans 9-7
Oakland Raiders 6-10
AFC South - Houston Texans 10-6
Tennessee Titans 9-7
Jacksonville Jags 8-8
Indianapolis Colts 7-9
AFC North - Cincinnati Bengals 11-5
Baltimore Ravens 11-5
Pittsburgh Steelers 9-7
Cleveland Browns 16-0...Just Kidding. That is pretty funny, though! 3-13
In honor of our big day, I am going to offer up my predictions across the NFL. Though it is too hard to say what the actual end result for each individual team, I will try my best and rank them by division finish. Remember these are just my opinions and not to be taken as any more than that. I am not an expert, by any means. What do you think? Join in the discussion on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/cincinnatibengalsfans Or comment below. I know a lot of you are reading this, so let's get this conversation started. Agree, Disagree, Your own predictions?
This is going to really wow you too, because unlike Ryan Tannehill, a starting QB in league, I know all of the divisions and that there are only two conferences. Who Dey!
NFC
NFC North - Green Bay Packers 12-4
Chicago Bears 10-6
Detroit Lions 9-7
Minnesota Vikings 5-11
NFC South - New Orleans Saints 10-6
Carolina Panthers 9-7
Atlanta Falcons 9-7
Tampa Bay Bucs 7-9
NFC West - San Francisco 49er 10-6
St. Louis Rams 8-8
Seattle Seahawks 7-9
Arizona Cardinals 4-12
NFC East - New York Giants 10-6
Dallas Cowboys 9-7
Wash. Redskins 7-9
Philadelphia Eagles 7-9
AFC
AFC East - New England Pats 11-5
Buffalo Bills 9-7
New York Jets 8-8
Miami Dolphins 3-13
AFC West - SD Chargers 10-6
Denver Broncos 9-7
Tennessee Titans 9-7
Oakland Raiders 6-10
AFC South - Houston Texans 10-6
Tennessee Titans 9-7
Jacksonville Jags 8-8
Indianapolis Colts 7-9
AFC North - Cincinnati Bengals 11-5
Baltimore Ravens 11-5
Pittsburgh Steelers 9-7
Cleveland Browns 16-0...Just Kidding. That is pretty funny, though! 3-13
Your Welcome
First, an update to last nights rant about Richard Quinn and the Lewis and Brown Show; They have released their reasoning for picking up this particular TE. They said they need better blocking at TE behind Gresham, whom is seemingly our only blocking TE and has the best hands. So, if this is the case, will we see more 2 TE sets? If blocking is what we were looking for, why not an experienced O-Lineman, since our line is currently inexperienced to say the least. And if it is 2 TE sets, why not Gresham blocking and take your chance on Donald Lee, who had a good camp, or the rookie Orson Charles? I understand, Gresham will need a break when the play doesn't call for a TE from being out there blocking. Is no one else even good enough to fill in, instead of a roster spot being taken for a position that isn't one of great need? Anyway, there is your reason. Love it or hate it. I guess it doesn't really matter, I am just still perplexed. Maybe this guy will be the best blocker in the history at the position.
If you have driven downtown at all in the last few days, you may have noticed a couple of giant billboards along the highway of Dre Kirkpatrick and his son reading, "Thank You Cincinnati" and signed by Dre. When I first saw this, I thought, they cut him or something crazy. Turns out, he is genuinely just being a nice guy and thanking us for the opportunity and our support. As you probably know, Kirkpatrick was Cincinnati's first pick in this years draft. He is a highly touted Corner out of Alabama. He was/is supposed to lead us to the promised land. However, shortly after OTA's, he injured his knee while practicing football drills. Just when we thought all was well coming into the last preseason game of the season, he experienced more pain and they found spurs on his knee. So his, so far short NFL career, has been a little bit of nothing. He has barely been able to practice and definitely no action in game situations. I did get to see him at the last camp at PBS this year that was open to the public. He did look good, but also needed to get up to speed. Since then he has been back to the bench, though. I feel bad for him. Especially now, that I know he feels bad. I hope that he is able to get back from this injury. He is young and I am sure that he will. It was very nice of him to think of us, though. To top it off, he even donated backpacks to a local elementary school. He wants to be here and that makes me happy. So keep your eyes peeled driving on the highways this weekend and give him a little Who Dey when you drive by because this is what it is about. Kirkpatrick said, "It's something I wanted to do to show my appreciation for the fans supporting me and the organization giving me the chance to help bring a Super Bowl here and I wanted to give something back to the community." Well, Dre, I speak for all of Cincinnati when I say, "Thank You and You are Welcome! Who Dey!"
If you have driven downtown at all in the last few days, you may have noticed a couple of giant billboards along the highway of Dre Kirkpatrick and his son reading, "Thank You Cincinnati" and signed by Dre. When I first saw this, I thought, they cut him or something crazy. Turns out, he is genuinely just being a nice guy and thanking us for the opportunity and our support. As you probably know, Kirkpatrick was Cincinnati's first pick in this years draft. He is a highly touted Corner out of Alabama. He was/is supposed to lead us to the promised land. However, shortly after OTA's, he injured his knee while practicing football drills. Just when we thought all was well coming into the last preseason game of the season, he experienced more pain and they found spurs on his knee. So his, so far short NFL career, has been a little bit of nothing. He has barely been able to practice and definitely no action in game situations. I did get to see him at the last camp at PBS this year that was open to the public. He did look good, but also needed to get up to speed. Since then he has been back to the bench, though. I feel bad for him. Especially now, that I know he feels bad. I hope that he is able to get back from this injury. He is young and I am sure that he will. It was very nice of him to think of us, though. To top it off, he even donated backpacks to a local elementary school. He wants to be here and that makes me happy. So keep your eyes peeled driving on the highways this weekend and give him a little Who Dey when you drive by because this is what it is about. Kirkpatrick said, "It's something I wanted to do to show my appreciation for the fans supporting me and the organization giving me the chance to help bring a Super Bowl here and I wanted to give something back to the community." Well, Dre, I speak for all of Cincinnati when I say, "Thank You and You are Welcome! Who Dey!"
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
The Good, The Bad, The...
The Lewis and Brown Show is back! Once again this show's resident tricksters have surprised us...yet not surprised us, with moves that are expected and others that leave us with a scrunched up bitter beer face. When I was one of the Belichick faithful and the team would do something a little off, I would shake my head, then shake it off. Obviously, he has proven that he is a Mad Scientist with wins and consistency. Marvin and Mikey, not so much. Instead of shaking it off, I just shake in my flip flops.
When I think of the tandem of Lewis and Brown...well I am not sure what or who I would compare them to. If Belichick is the Mad Scientist then the combo we in Cincinnati have all grown to love would be...hmmm, maybe Abbott and Costello. They are a bucket of laughs with small moments of short lived greatness. They have made some questionable decisions in the past, sure, but after the whole Quitter (for those not up to speed, Carson Palmer) debacle, we thought they were geniuses. I, personally, thought that they had turned the corner. They got some good guys last year in the draft and free agency, picked up a great offensive coach in Gruden, and the guys really straightened up. Then comes 2012. So far, so good, all is great. Then today, they make a roster move, that was expected. This led to a pick up completely unexpected, a real head scratcher.
So, here is your latest Bengals news: As expected, with the new IR Return rule, the team placed injured Center Kyle Cook on IR with the status of "designated to return". He is like the motherboard to your computer and a huge part of the offense. He knows everything and keeps everyone operating correctly. So, he is the obvious IR pick to return after his surgery. With that being said, in as little as 7 weeks he can return to practice and play in 9 weeks. With Cook on IR, a roster spot opens up. The team could really use a Defensive Lineman due to the injuries that have plagued the position. Another route, everyone expected them to take, was an offensive guard or lineman. We are thinned out there and Andy clearly needs more or better protection per the preseason performances.
All this suspense, I know. Let me put your mind at ease. Mikey and Marvin have decided the team, instead, needs another TE. That's right a 4th TE. Wait a minute...the light bulb in my head finally went off. What a great idea! I totally get it now! These guys are still geniuses! They are going to be the new Patriots! Wow!! And, if you believed that, then you too can own and operate the Bengals organization too.
Are these guys kidding me right now? We now have 4 TE? We aren't that type of team and if we were trying to be, we sure as hell would have signed someone that is actually good at the position. They filled the roster spot with a guy named Richard Quinn. You haven't heard of him? Me either. Turns out he was selected in the 2nd round in 2009 by Denver. In the 09-10 seasons, he played in 29 games and had 4 starts. Already sounds promising, huh. Then he was released from Denver in August of 2011 to not be picked up again until December by Washington. He played all preseason with one 1 catch for 9 yards. Ha! In fact, he only has 1 career reception at all! When I read these stats, I am definitely nodding my head saying, "Hell yeah! That's a great pick! Who Dey!" Sarcasm Alert.
I guess, whatever, if you want to waste your time or if you think he is a good guy. I don't know him, maybe he sings songs and bakes brownies at orphanages in his spare time. In fact, I am sure he is great and his personality is probably golden. However, why waste the roster spot when your team has needs at other positions? I appreciate them keeping us on our toes with the element of surprise, but this just doesn't make sense.
I am probably making too big of a deal about this move. I am just getting nervous. The season is starting in less than 24 hours and I want to believe in this team this year. I more than want to, I do believe in this team. I believe that they are playoff contenders. I believe that Andy will be better. I believe the Defense will be in the top 5. I believe we will stand up to the bullies of the AFC North. So when I see stupid, little things like this, I get scared. Will the critics be right? Will there be a sophomore slump? Will we keep up with the Bengals of old and not make it back to the playoffs? Will the Steelers and Ravens still have our number? We need to get the proper personnel in place and a Tight End right now, that no team seems to want, probably isn't the proper personnel. We need beefed up. So, maybe it isn't a horrible move, but it sure as hell isn't a smart move. Especially when there are so many fans that are still doubters and haters.
I had a couple fantasy football drafts this weekend. One of which, was live. This is a good environment to get a feel about what people think of teams and players. These guys are all Cincinnati guys, wearing their Bengals gear, and going to games. It was eye opening to see, that they still don't believe in their own team. It was almost taboo to take a Bengal. In fact, for the most part, they mocked people for taking Bengals players. If your own fans are skeptical, why make the irrelevant move that no one understands. Why not make the smart move and show them you are serious about your future? Until you win a Playoff game for this city, you need to play it safe. These fans, need to trust you. Until they do, you are never going to earn their respect.
Quinn's pick up was not the way to do this. This move, is sort of like breaking your right leg. You hobble in to the hospital with a bone sticking out from your flesh and when the doctor starts to fix it, you say, "No Doc, the leg isn't why I'm here. Why don't you put a cast on my left arm instead. I think that will make it feel all better." Sigh...who knows. Maybe we will be the Patriots this year, maybe he is the best blocking TE in the world. Something tells me, though, that he wouldn't have been available if he was.
Moving along, I suppose. In the wake of roster moves today, the team also decided to drop Bryce Davis TE/LS from the practice squad. This leaves the practice team with 2 openings. Maybe we should all try out! I kid, they aren't that bad. I just sometimes wonder what is going on. Am I right to question?
Who Dey!
When I think of the tandem of Lewis and Brown...well I am not sure what or who I would compare them to. If Belichick is the Mad Scientist then the combo we in Cincinnati have all grown to love would be...hmmm, maybe Abbott and Costello. They are a bucket of laughs with small moments of short lived greatness. They have made some questionable decisions in the past, sure, but after the whole Quitter (for those not up to speed, Carson Palmer) debacle, we thought they were geniuses. I, personally, thought that they had turned the corner. They got some good guys last year in the draft and free agency, picked up a great offensive coach in Gruden, and the guys really straightened up. Then comes 2012. So far, so good, all is great. Then today, they make a roster move, that was expected. This led to a pick up completely unexpected, a real head scratcher.
So, here is your latest Bengals news: As expected, with the new IR Return rule, the team placed injured Center Kyle Cook on IR with the status of "designated to return". He is like the motherboard to your computer and a huge part of the offense. He knows everything and keeps everyone operating correctly. So, he is the obvious IR pick to return after his surgery. With that being said, in as little as 7 weeks he can return to practice and play in 9 weeks. With Cook on IR, a roster spot opens up. The team could really use a Defensive Lineman due to the injuries that have plagued the position. Another route, everyone expected them to take, was an offensive guard or lineman. We are thinned out there and Andy clearly needs more or better protection per the preseason performances.
All this suspense, I know. Let me put your mind at ease. Mikey and Marvin have decided the team, instead, needs another TE. That's right a 4th TE. Wait a minute...the light bulb in my head finally went off. What a great idea! I totally get it now! These guys are still geniuses! They are going to be the new Patriots! Wow!! And, if you believed that, then you too can own and operate the Bengals organization too.
Are these guys kidding me right now? We now have 4 TE? We aren't that type of team and if we were trying to be, we sure as hell would have signed someone that is actually good at the position. They filled the roster spot with a guy named Richard Quinn. You haven't heard of him? Me either. Turns out he was selected in the 2nd round in 2009 by Denver. In the 09-10 seasons, he played in 29 games and had 4 starts. Already sounds promising, huh. Then he was released from Denver in August of 2011 to not be picked up again until December by Washington. He played all preseason with one 1 catch for 9 yards. Ha! In fact, he only has 1 career reception at all! When I read these stats, I am definitely nodding my head saying, "Hell yeah! That's a great pick! Who Dey!" Sarcasm Alert.
I guess, whatever, if you want to waste your time or if you think he is a good guy. I don't know him, maybe he sings songs and bakes brownies at orphanages in his spare time. In fact, I am sure he is great and his personality is probably golden. However, why waste the roster spot when your team has needs at other positions? I appreciate them keeping us on our toes with the element of surprise, but this just doesn't make sense.
I am probably making too big of a deal about this move. I am just getting nervous. The season is starting in less than 24 hours and I want to believe in this team this year. I more than want to, I do believe in this team. I believe that they are playoff contenders. I believe that Andy will be better. I believe the Defense will be in the top 5. I believe we will stand up to the bullies of the AFC North. So when I see stupid, little things like this, I get scared. Will the critics be right? Will there be a sophomore slump? Will we keep up with the Bengals of old and not make it back to the playoffs? Will the Steelers and Ravens still have our number? We need to get the proper personnel in place and a Tight End right now, that no team seems to want, probably isn't the proper personnel. We need beefed up. So, maybe it isn't a horrible move, but it sure as hell isn't a smart move. Especially when there are so many fans that are still doubters and haters.
I had a couple fantasy football drafts this weekend. One of which, was live. This is a good environment to get a feel about what people think of teams and players. These guys are all Cincinnati guys, wearing their Bengals gear, and going to games. It was eye opening to see, that they still don't believe in their own team. It was almost taboo to take a Bengal. In fact, for the most part, they mocked people for taking Bengals players. If your own fans are skeptical, why make the irrelevant move that no one understands. Why not make the smart move and show them you are serious about your future? Until you win a Playoff game for this city, you need to play it safe. These fans, need to trust you. Until they do, you are never going to earn their respect.
Quinn's pick up was not the way to do this. This move, is sort of like breaking your right leg. You hobble in to the hospital with a bone sticking out from your flesh and when the doctor starts to fix it, you say, "No Doc, the leg isn't why I'm here. Why don't you put a cast on my left arm instead. I think that will make it feel all better." Sigh...who knows. Maybe we will be the Patriots this year, maybe he is the best blocking TE in the world. Something tells me, though, that he wouldn't have been available if he was.
Moving along, I suppose. In the wake of roster moves today, the team also decided to drop Bryce Davis TE/LS from the practice squad. This leaves the practice team with 2 openings. Maybe we should all try out! I kid, they aren't that bad. I just sometimes wonder what is going on. Am I right to question?
Who Dey!
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Update
Sorry for the late update today. I have been immersed in college football. I am so glad this season is back. Seriously, it is only 1 of 2 things in the whole world that can make my heart pitter patter. Sad, I know. There is just something about the smell in the air near a field and the rough feel of the pigskin. Soon, the chill will be in the air and grown men will wear costumes. I mean does anything else have this power. Every Saturday, every Sunday starting next week. It is good to be a football fan! Who Dey!!
Let me get myself cleaned up here...Anyway, the Bengals have announced their practice squad players. In case you care, I would like to share:
Zac Robinson - QB
Dan "Boom" Herron - Rookie RB
Jourdan Brooks - Rookie RB
Emmanuel Lamur - Rookie OLB
Bryce Davis - Rookie LS
Chris Lewis-Harris - Rookie CB
Otis Hudson - RG
Open Spot
They are going to make another move to the roster that is expected to come on Tuesday. That is the day where they will be eligible, by new standards to place a player, in this case Kyle Cook to the IR recall list and they can re-evaluate his health at week 6 and possibly have him come back. That would open up a roster spot. When that occurs next week they could sign another Offensive Lineman or re-sign someone they just cut. This would be ideal for the guys that weren't eligible for the practice squad, but had a good camp. Roddrick Muckelroy is the first guy that comes to mind for me. He seemed to do really well in games, coming in for Maualuga. If they don't do that, I would look for them to beef up the D-Line because they are heavy with injuries there. Maybe even bring Hayden back. His camp was decent, as well. A few reports I have seen, say that Cochart was picked up off the waiver
wire by Dallas. So, he would be unavailable if they did choose to stick
with an ineligible guy that they originally cut.
Maybe they will just get someone new all together. With all of the reports coming out of all of the surprise guys that didn't make some of the rosters, we could take this opportunity to get a real gem. I kind of wish now, we would have held off on Faine, since Koppen came out on the market. He is one of the best at the position. But what can you do? This whole waiver wire, draft, and trade thing is like playing the lottery. You never what they are going to do for you or if you something better will ever come up. I saw on Twitter that a lot of people really wanted Hightower to come Cincy. Why? He are pretty heavy at RB and Green-Ellis came from a pass heavy Patriots team, but still has great stats. We have been injured and erring on the side of caution. I think before we jump that gun, we really should play a couple games with starters. There were definitely a lot of surprises, though, and a lot of new options. I guess we will find out next week.
Speaking of next week, where is everyone watching the Baltimore game? Is anyone going to the home opener?
Friday, August 31, 2012
The End Has Come
The cuts have been made and the Bengals have made it to 53 guys. Some of the guys on this list may still return for the practice squad, but that decision will be made a later date. Are some of your favorites on this list? Here is how they got to the magic number:
Placed on Reserve/Injured list:
Tony Dye - S - Ankle Injury
Placed on Reserve/PUP list:
Pat Sims - DT - Hamstring Injury
Placed on Reserve/Suspended by Commish list:
Dontay Moch - LB - Suspended 1-4 games for using performance enhancers
Waived a Player With Injury Settlement:
Nick Hayden - DT - Ankle Injury
Waived 18 Players:
Jourdan Brooks - Rookie FB
Colin Cochart - TE
Bryce Davis - Rookie LS
James Develin - FB
DeQuin Evans - DE
Vidal Hazelton - WR
T.J. Heath - CB
Daniel "Boom" Herron - Rookie RB
Otis Hudson - G
Grant Hunter - Rookie LB
Chris Lewis-Harris - Rookie CB
Micah Johnson - DE
Emmanuel Lamur - LB
Vaughn Meatoga - Rookie DT
Roddrick Muckelroy - LB
Matthew O'Donnell - OT
Zac Robinson - QB
Reggie Stephens - G
The Bengals said that they would release a practice squad list of 8 players tomorrow. The players must clear waivers in the next 24 hours to be considered. At this point, those on waivers can now be picked up by other teams. Colin Cochart, Nick Hayden, and Roddrick Muckelroy are the only players that will not be eligible for practice squad signing.
So, now, Who Dey Nation...Here is your 53 man Roster! Can I get a Who Dey for the 2012 Bengals?!? Here is the depth chart per Bengals.com:
Offense:
QB - Andy Dalton, Bruce Gradkowski
RB - BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Bernard Scott, Brian Leonard, Cedric Peerman
FB - Chris Pressley
WR1 - A.J. Green, Andrew Hawkins, Ryan Whalen, Marvin Jones
WR2 - Brandon Tate, Armon Binns, Mohamed Sanu
RT - Andre Smith, Dennis Roland
RG - Kevin Zeitler
C - Kyle Cook, Trevor Robinson, Jeff Faine
LG - Clint Boling
LT - Andrew Whitworth, Anthony Collins
TE - Jermaine Gresham, Donald Lee, Orson Charles
Defense:
SS - Taylor Mays, Jeromy Miles
FS - Reggie Nelson, George Iloka
LDE - Carlos Dunlap, Robert Geathers
NT - Domata Peko, Brandon Thompson
DT - Geno Atkins, Devon Still
RDE - Michael Johnson, Jamaal Anderson
SLB - Manny Lawson, Dan Skuta
WLB - Thomas Howard, Vincent Ray
MLB - Ray Maualuga, Vontaze Burfict
RCB - Leon Hall, Jason Allen, Adam Jones
LCB - Nate Clements, Terence Newman, Dre Kirkpatrick
Special Teams:
KR - Brandon Tate, Andrew Hawkins, Adam Jones, Marvin Jones
PR - Brandon Tate, Andrew Hawkins, Adam Jones, Marvin Jones
LS - Clark Harris
K - Mike Nugent
P - Kevin Huber
Now, who is ready for some real football??????? September 10th is coming...Those Dirty Birds are on our list!!! Who Dey!!!
Luck-y Colts and Black Friday Reloaded
Last night our guys packed up and headed to Indy for the preseason finale. The last preseason game is, probably, the most insignificant game of the season. However, I decided to spice it up and lightly smack talk my Indy friend. To my dismay, of course. I needed warming up for the season start next week, so it was good practice. What can I say? I am shameless. After I ate my words, I decided to look at the positives and negatives of the game. So, here goes my friends!!
Positives
The first team offense, while they were all actually on the field, looked really good and were really productive in picking up yards.
The O-Line, seemed to do a better job for a good part of the game.
The back up running backs came to play. This is a huge change from what we have been seeing in these games.
The D-Line did well against the run and the backfield looked solid.
The Rookie WR were ready to play and made some good plays.
Rookie C Robinson did a good job. So if Faine can't start during the opener, we may be able to relax a tiny bit if he has to start.
Negatives
The back-up CB and Safeties, Iloka specifically, seemed to struggle a little.
Andy Dalton got hurt. It looked a lot uglier than it was. The injury turned out to be a funny bone bruise, but for a minute there, I am sure there collective gasp and whimper from Who Dey Nation.
The O-Line, even though, they did better, they still need to keep it up and step it up more. Andy shouldn't have been put in that situation.
Both teams received a lot of penalties. Though, some were phantom, a lot were necessary. We need to clean up our game. No hitting, no blocking from behind, and for God's sake do not put your arm around the receiver before the ball gets there.
We lost again...
Overall, the last preseason game, was a success. I think the game really showed what people were capable of and those that needed to fight fought. Marvin Jones, Rookie WR, dropped a perfect pass from Gradkowski that would have been an instant TD. He made it up though on another series, with the same play and this time a beautiful catch where he actually scored. He had a few more good catches in the game, as well some returns on Kick Offs. Sanu made a couple athletic grabs and is really showing his big presence, breaking through guys after the catch on plays. He did get 2 pass interference break ups that were penalized. Had he not been interfered with, he would have had a couple more great plays. AJ Green, caught one pass with the first team offense.
Leonard and Peerman were revived last night, as well. Leonard did well with the first teamers. He found holes more easily and seemed to fight more. Peerman...Peerman...Peerman! What can't this guy do? Last night, he received most of the carries and looked phenomenal. His feet were quick like the Road Runner (Meep, Meep), his cuts were quick and accurate, he just sliced and diced his way through Indy's D and ST. He had the opportunity to field a kick off that he may have taken to the house, had his own player not assisted on his tackle. We definitely need to be more aware out there. Boom Herron, had a couple okay runs. He put the ball on the ground and the Colts recovered. I think he has probably sealed his fate and it doesn't equal the final 53. The Law Firm sat, even though most thought he would play. He is going to be back for the Ravens on Sept 10. Scott is still out, as well, for an unknown amount of time.
Special Teams looked good. Huber and Nugent, both kicked well last night. Nugent seems to be fully healed from his injury in the offseason. His longest of the night was 48 yards with lots of power. Huber is turning out to be an artist at this position. The rest of the guys seemed to step it up on returns and tackling. We incorporated more rookies in and the did well. Baby Hawk, did drop another punt, though. This is twice now in the preseason games. This is something we need to nip in the butt now with more work or not letting him field kicks.
The 1st team D looked good, all over the ball. The back ups did pretty well too. There were a few mental errors out there. Burfict put added another sack to his already impressive preseason and Muckelroy had another good start at MLB. These guys are finally coming together, or so it seemed. I guess we will see in Baltimore. Kirkpatrick sat again, with soreness in his healing knee, and Pacman was still out. This is an area still filled with injuries. Hopefully we can get everyone back and up to speed. If not, we may be in trouble if one more person goes down.
Now that the preseason is officially over, it is time to get down to business. Everyone knows, by now, that today is cut day. At 9pm the teams will be down to their official 53 man rosters. This is like a real Black Friday, without good deals, just mourning. This has got to be awful. The only good news is, if you are cut, there are practice team hopes and possible waiver pick ups. Hopefully everyone played to their fullest ability. Just because you are cut from the Bengals, doesn't mean someone else won't like what they see. A lot of guys will be unemployed and dreams will be dashed. I would not want to be a coach today. Well, unless I had a cold black heart and enjoyed stabbing people in the face. The good news is with the new rule that the NFL implemented Wednesday teams are allowed to place a player on IR and have the opportunity to actually bring him back in Week 8 (the new trade deadline), instead of being lost for the year. It is my understanding, that this privilege has to be designated to one player when placing him on IR after Sept 4. That may be helpful with some of the guys that just need more rehab time. Anyway, whatever happens, tonight you will meet your new Bengals. Who Dey!
To wrap this up, some other news for your eyes to enjoy...The Referees (yes, the real ones) and the NFL are meeting today. Hopefully, they get something done. Robert Kraft said that Tom Brady is better than Joe Montana (I don't think he is better right now, but I think after he is gone we are all going to agree...you never notice greatness until it is gone and not spanking your ass anymore). Andy Reid is officially on the hot seat this season. The Eagles owner came out today and basically said, win or else. Reid has had a rough offseason with his sons death, so hopefully the team steps up for him so he doesn't have to see his career die too.
I will leave you with Brady and Montana stat comparisons:
*Please note, Tommy's are still active, so depending on what he does in the future it could impact these numbers greatly in one direction or the other*
Brady Montana
W-L 124-35 117-47
Super Bowl W-L 3-2 4-0
Pass Yds 39,979 40,551
TD 300 273
Interceptions 115 139
Brady actually does seem to be better now that I look at it, or on his way to being better, everywhere except in Super Bowl win record. He has made it to more Super Bowls though, and with one more win, he will tie Montana there. So what do you think? Do you think Kraft is still wrong? Or are we watching greatness? Time will tell. Who Dey!
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
In Other NFL News
I know this is hard to believe, but to a lot of people, the NFL doesn't revolve around the Bengals. Can I get a Who Dey though? Hell Yeah! So, today, for those following along, you are lucky enough to get two blog posts. One for the new Center, Jeff Faine and now one for the news around the league. Hooray! I am going to cover a few topics here: Concussions, Officials, Hard Knocks, Cardinals, and the J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets.
Let's start with the least exciting, shall we...The Cardinals. First of all, this team hasn't really been relevant, unless there is something I am forgetting, since their loss to the Steelers in the Super Bowl in 2009. Hell, they were barely relevant leading up to that game. Last year, everyone, including myself, thought that Kevin Kolb would lead them to the promise land. I mean, imagine what a QB could do for this team. They have one of the best WR ever in Larry Fitzgerald. Why can't someone just get him the ball. Leinart was just another USC bust and Warner was past his prime. So here comes this guy that was exciting and young that started the previous season as a QB with the Eagles, until he got hurt and Vick stole the show. Kevin Kolb seemed like an oasis in the Arizona desert. As he started taking over the team, though, everyone realized he was just that an Oasis. Still no relief. So this season, John Skelton steps up to challenge him. Now it is the last week of preseason and still no QB decision out of Arizona. I heard someone on ESPN say that this was good because now the other team couldn't prepare against one single quarterback. I would say that would be a relevant answer...if you had Tom Brady and Michael Vick you were picking between. Not Skelton and Kolb! They are both pocket passers and neither one have shown too many signs of greatness. I would say they are barely mediocre after watching them this preseason. Gimme a break, Arizona. If these are your cards (both literally and figuratively) just fold and let us all see what you have. If it isn't trickery and you are really undecided at this point because they both are as mediocre as the other, good luck this season.
Is anyone else watching Hard Knocks? I have to say, I have been really struck Philbin as coach this year in Miami. He seems like he genuinely cares about each person. Instead of phone calls for cuts, he has them all talk to Ireland and then he sits them down and gives them hope or answers. He also genuinely cares about winning, but wants to do it right. So, even though Chad "Head Butter" Johnson was they best WR he had, he still cut him. He knew it wasn't right and it was better to groom. He sat RB Thomas down to talk about being late and not being a good role model. His door is always open. Good for him, with an offseason in the NFL that has brought numerous player arrests for stupid stuff because they just can't seem to get themselves off of the streets. I mean Dez Bryant beat up his own Mom, which doesn't seem to be the first time the way she talked. Aside from Goodell's punishment and his new found 10 yr old boy curfew, he is going to go on like usual with the Cowboys. It takes a big man to take stand against these guys for real. So, I guess all I wanted to say here was Kudos Philbin for building a good, clean, program in Miami. While you are there, maybe you could help out the U. I heard their reputation is in the toilet, with the prostitutes and all.
The NFL has finally made it official. The replacement refs will start the regular season instead of the regular referees. If I were these regular referees, I would be getting a little nervous. First of all, under the old contract they were making good money and had NFL benefits, as well as retirement. They worked for about 4 hours for, including playoffs, about 24 days of the year. They made more than most Americans a year that work 365 days of the year for 8-10 hours a day. I know they see these guys out there running on the same field, making millions. But, tell me, do they get hit? Do they get injured? Do they have a high concussion rate? Do they risk their bodies or their lives? Do they bring in the revenue to this league? The answer to every one of those questions is: HELL NO!! So they need to shut up and get back out there because if they don't, they may be out completely. These replacement guys haven't been perfect and they are making mistakes. Some that really anger us as fans, but they are going to be good like the regular refs. We all struggle in the beginning of anything. Then no one is going to miss them anymore. Coaches can always challenge if it is too bad. Soon enough they may just another old schmuck like the rest of us if they don't get this deal done. So Regular Referees, get your shit together. This league is going to leave you behind.
Now on to concussions. This league has been dealing with concussion and brain injury backlash forever, but it seems to be really bad in the past few years. I just want to mention it because ESPN has been running a series on it and the new ways to combat this with better hitting, etc. Goodell has already implemented rules in hitting and the game to make is safer for players. This controversy and these new hitting rules, have people all over the place. I am right down the middle on this one. I always hear the argument, after Harrison puts another helmet to helmet hit on someone and is fined yet again, that it is just football and it is dangerous, you know that when you suit up. This, I sometimes agree with. It is football. You are expected to get hit and put your body out there. You knew what were signing up for and that is why you make all of that money. Then, you have all of these tough guys coming back, and suing the NFL. Years later after they played, they still have head injuries that are irreversible. Now, you even have high school students getting paralyzed and suffering. So, then you think, to protect the NFL and keep the sport going, more rules need to be in place. Do we watch this sport because we want to see guys get laid out or because we just want our team to win and make great plays? For me it is the great plays, the flips into the end zone, the one handed interceptions. I don't want to see anyone hurt. I would venture to say, though, that about 50% of America does not agree. They want to see those big hits, they want to curse Goodell. This is a catch 22 issue for the heads of the NFL, but what is right? Should we let them play or protect them and our sport from injury and law suits?
Of course, I saved the best for last. The Jets, ESPN's favorite team! I am not going to say much here. Coming from Patriots fan-dom, makes my skin crawl at the mention of their name and if you have been following this blog at all, you know how much I LOVE Timmy Boy! Speaking of Timmy Boy, the Chosen One...0 touchdowns this preseason. And his comrade, USC great Sanchez (please tell me you heard the sarcasm there)...0 touchdowns. Oh, hold on, whole Jets offense...0 touchdowns. Good job in the offseason Rex. You built a great one! Maybe you should stop looking at those shoe magazines and get your dick out of your hand and coach this team. No, wait, don't. Jesus will carry you and his Son to victory with no talent. Silly me! Let's all pray...Not too hard, though. I think God may be laughing at him too! On a happy note for all of us and Tebow...A new Tim Tebow documentary will be released on September 11, 2012! So save your money and mark your calendars! A day of sadness for the United States is now to be even sadder!
All I can do is close my eyes and shake my head...Is it over yet?
Let's start with the least exciting, shall we...The Cardinals. First of all, this team hasn't really been relevant, unless there is something I am forgetting, since their loss to the Steelers in the Super Bowl in 2009. Hell, they were barely relevant leading up to that game. Last year, everyone, including myself, thought that Kevin Kolb would lead them to the promise land. I mean, imagine what a QB could do for this team. They have one of the best WR ever in Larry Fitzgerald. Why can't someone just get him the ball. Leinart was just another USC bust and Warner was past his prime. So here comes this guy that was exciting and young that started the previous season as a QB with the Eagles, until he got hurt and Vick stole the show. Kevin Kolb seemed like an oasis in the Arizona desert. As he started taking over the team, though, everyone realized he was just that an Oasis. Still no relief. So this season, John Skelton steps up to challenge him. Now it is the last week of preseason and still no QB decision out of Arizona. I heard someone on ESPN say that this was good because now the other team couldn't prepare against one single quarterback. I would say that would be a relevant answer...if you had Tom Brady and Michael Vick you were picking between. Not Skelton and Kolb! They are both pocket passers and neither one have shown too many signs of greatness. I would say they are barely mediocre after watching them this preseason. Gimme a break, Arizona. If these are your cards (both literally and figuratively) just fold and let us all see what you have. If it isn't trickery and you are really undecided at this point because they both are as mediocre as the other, good luck this season.
Is anyone else watching Hard Knocks? I have to say, I have been really struck Philbin as coach this year in Miami. He seems like he genuinely cares about each person. Instead of phone calls for cuts, he has them all talk to Ireland and then he sits them down and gives them hope or answers. He also genuinely cares about winning, but wants to do it right. So, even though Chad "Head Butter" Johnson was they best WR he had, he still cut him. He knew it wasn't right and it was better to groom. He sat RB Thomas down to talk about being late and not being a good role model. His door is always open. Good for him, with an offseason in the NFL that has brought numerous player arrests for stupid stuff because they just can't seem to get themselves off of the streets. I mean Dez Bryant beat up his own Mom, which doesn't seem to be the first time the way she talked. Aside from Goodell's punishment and his new found 10 yr old boy curfew, he is going to go on like usual with the Cowboys. It takes a big man to take stand against these guys for real. So, I guess all I wanted to say here was Kudos Philbin for building a good, clean, program in Miami. While you are there, maybe you could help out the U. I heard their reputation is in the toilet, with the prostitutes and all.
The NFL has finally made it official. The replacement refs will start the regular season instead of the regular referees. If I were these regular referees, I would be getting a little nervous. First of all, under the old contract they were making good money and had NFL benefits, as well as retirement. They worked for about 4 hours for, including playoffs, about 24 days of the year. They made more than most Americans a year that work 365 days of the year for 8-10 hours a day. I know they see these guys out there running on the same field, making millions. But, tell me, do they get hit? Do they get injured? Do they have a high concussion rate? Do they risk their bodies or their lives? Do they bring in the revenue to this league? The answer to every one of those questions is: HELL NO!! So they need to shut up and get back out there because if they don't, they may be out completely. These replacement guys haven't been perfect and they are making mistakes. Some that really anger us as fans, but they are going to be good like the regular refs. We all struggle in the beginning of anything. Then no one is going to miss them anymore. Coaches can always challenge if it is too bad. Soon enough they may just another old schmuck like the rest of us if they don't get this deal done. So Regular Referees, get your shit together. This league is going to leave you behind.
Now on to concussions. This league has been dealing with concussion and brain injury backlash forever, but it seems to be really bad in the past few years. I just want to mention it because ESPN has been running a series on it and the new ways to combat this with better hitting, etc. Goodell has already implemented rules in hitting and the game to make is safer for players. This controversy and these new hitting rules, have people all over the place. I am right down the middle on this one. I always hear the argument, after Harrison puts another helmet to helmet hit on someone and is fined yet again, that it is just football and it is dangerous, you know that when you suit up. This, I sometimes agree with. It is football. You are expected to get hit and put your body out there. You knew what were signing up for and that is why you make all of that money. Then, you have all of these tough guys coming back, and suing the NFL. Years later after they played, they still have head injuries that are irreversible. Now, you even have high school students getting paralyzed and suffering. So, then you think, to protect the NFL and keep the sport going, more rules need to be in place. Do we watch this sport because we want to see guys get laid out or because we just want our team to win and make great plays? For me it is the great plays, the flips into the end zone, the one handed interceptions. I don't want to see anyone hurt. I would venture to say, though, that about 50% of America does not agree. They want to see those big hits, they want to curse Goodell. This is a catch 22 issue for the heads of the NFL, but what is right? Should we let them play or protect them and our sport from injury and law suits?
Of course, I saved the best for last. The Jets, ESPN's favorite team! I am not going to say much here. Coming from Patriots fan-dom, makes my skin crawl at the mention of their name and if you have been following this blog at all, you know how much I LOVE Timmy Boy! Speaking of Timmy Boy, the Chosen One...0 touchdowns this preseason. And his comrade, USC great Sanchez (please tell me you heard the sarcasm there)...0 touchdowns. Oh, hold on, whole Jets offense...0 touchdowns. Good job in the offseason Rex. You built a great one! Maybe you should stop looking at those shoe magazines and get your dick out of your hand and coach this team. No, wait, don't. Jesus will carry you and his Son to victory with no talent. Silly me! Let's all pray...Not too hard, though. I think God may be laughing at him too! On a happy note for all of us and Tebow...A new Tim Tebow documentary will be released on September 11, 2012! So save your money and mark your calendars! A day of sadness for the United States is now to be even sadder!
All I can do is close my eyes and shake my head...Is it over yet?
Center of Attention
If you haven't heard, or don't know already, the Bengals Center Kyle Cook injured his ankle in last week's preseason game against the Green Bay Packers. This is unfortunate because, not only is he a great Center with great ability, his back-up is a Rookie in Trevor Robinson. Robinson hasn't had very many starts at the position and is a real wild card come game day. So, not know exactly what they were up against with the injury and scared about letting an inexperienced rookie in to start the season, with an already struggling line, the team worked out veteran Center, Jeff Faine. He came in to the league in 2003 and has played for the Browns, Saints, and Bucs. He seems to have pretty good credentials, being a first round draft pick and 2007 Pro Bowl Alternate. Another plus for him, he has already worked under Jay Gruden, so he is familiar with the offense and schemes.
Drum roll please...dadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadada
Meet Your New Bengal
Jeff Faine
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 303 lbs
College: Notre Dame
Draft: 21st Pick by Brownies
Previous Team: Tampa Bay - Released in March, many think due to cap issues.
He seems like he might be a good pick up, but he hasn't had an offseason to speak of in real team drills, so hopefully he has stayed sharp. I am sure that they wouldn't have picked him up if there were questions.
In the meantime, the Bengals had to drop someone to keep the roster level in tact per NFL standards. Unfortunately, that man was Justin Hilton, Rookie WR, out of Indiana State. That is too bad. I guess I knew it was going to happen one way or the other. Either via the practice squad or on Friday. We were just so deep at that position. He just seemed like such a good guy and so grateful. I really thought he would make it to the practice squad. I guess anything possible, so who knows, maybe that will still come to fruition. He had a great camp and had a few good catches in the preseason games, most notably, the catch against Green Bay on the sideline last week. Anyway, he was our latest casualty.
A little slip up, though, came from Bengals.com. When they first tweeted the Faine signing, they said the team released Nick Hayden, the 3rd year DT out of Wisconsin. Hayden has had a solid camp, but he is down the roster on an already talented defensive line. So even though, the Bengals deleted their tweet, is it still a sign of things to come. Oopsie! Let's not look any more into that. I don't want rumors to get started.
Drum roll please...dadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadada
Meet Your New Bengal
Jeff Faine
Weight: 303 lbs
College: Notre Dame
Draft: 21st Pick by Brownies
Previous Team: Tampa Bay - Released in March, many think due to cap issues.
He seems like he might be a good pick up, but he hasn't had an offseason to speak of in real team drills, so hopefully he has stayed sharp. I am sure that they wouldn't have picked him up if there were questions.
In the meantime, the Bengals had to drop someone to keep the roster level in tact per NFL standards. Unfortunately, that man was Justin Hilton, Rookie WR, out of Indiana State. That is too bad. I guess I knew it was going to happen one way or the other. Either via the practice squad or on Friday. We were just so deep at that position. He just seemed like such a good guy and so grateful. I really thought he would make it to the practice squad. I guess anything possible, so who knows, maybe that will still come to fruition. He had a great camp and had a few good catches in the preseason games, most notably, the catch against Green Bay on the sideline last week. Anyway, he was our latest casualty.
A little slip up, though, came from Bengals.com. When they first tweeted the Faine signing, they said the team released Nick Hayden, the 3rd year DT out of Wisconsin. Hayden has had a solid camp, but he is down the roster on an already talented defensive line. So even though, the Bengals deleted their tweet, is it still a sign of things to come. Oopsie! Let's not look any more into that. I don't want rumors to get started.
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