The Eagles close-out the 2011 season at home this Sunday against Washington in a game that has absolutely no meaning other than what affect it will have on both team's position in next April's NFL draft.
This is certainly not how most people, including myself, had this season panning-out for our over-hyped Birds. In retrospect, the main culprit in this season's debacle was the player lock-out that dragged into early August. The Eagles were hurt far more than I ever anticipated by the inability to practice as a team this past offseason. This contributed greatly to a slow start that basically ended any chance of a championship run, despite having one of the most talented teams in the NFL.
Over the past three weeks, we have seen a glimpse of how good this team can play when it eliminates stupid mistakes, penalties, and turnovers. It was almost good enough to sneak it into the playoffs due to a woefully mediocre NFC East, but we are probably better off waiting until next season for everything to finally come together.
In the meantime, the Birds have a chance to end the season at 8-8 overall with a 5-1 record in the division with a win over the Redskins. Look for this team to come out smoking on Sunday afternoon as it still feels it has something to prove in its quest to avoid a losing season.
Below is my complete preview & pick for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Previews- Washington Redskins vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Friday, December 30, 2011
NFC East Game Previews- Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants
The highlight game of Week 17 in the NFL features a NFC East title championship showdown between the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants.
Because of a Buddy Ryan postseason curse that was manifested through his son Rex's New York Jets, the Eagles' divisional title chances ended with the Giants 29-14 victory over Ryan's team in last Sunday's city championship game. With our beloved Birds out of the picture, we are left with two other mediocre teams battling it out for this year's NFC East title. The 8-7 Cowboys come in with just one victory in their last four games, while the 8-7 Giants stumble into this game with a 2-5 record over the second half of the season.
I have the Giants winning this game going away, but as I said numerous times before, it really does not matter which team wins on Sunday as they will be a guaranteed one-and-done in the playoffs.
Below is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Bang the Book
NFC East Previews- Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants
Because of a Buddy Ryan postseason curse that was manifested through his son Rex's New York Jets, the Eagles' divisional title chances ended with the Giants 29-14 victory over Ryan's team in last Sunday's city championship game. With our beloved Birds out of the picture, we are left with two other mediocre teams battling it out for this year's NFC East title. The 8-7 Cowboys come in with just one victory in their last four games, while the 8-7 Giants stumble into this game with a 2-5 record over the second half of the season.
I have the Giants winning this game going away, but as I said numerous times before, it really does not matter which team wins on Sunday as they will be a guaranteed one-and-done in the playoffs.
Below is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Bang the Book
NFC East Previews- Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants
Thursday, December 22, 2011
NFC East Game Previews- Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys
I can remember this time last year when the Eagles were well on their way to winning the NFC East, but still needed the Giants to stumble to actually clinch the division. The Giants held-up their end of the deal by getting blown-out by Green Bay 45-17, but the Eagles fell flat on their face in a 24-14 loss to Minnesota that cost them the No.2 seed in the conference.
Flash forward 12 months and the Birds find themselves needing the Giants to lose just to keep their faint division hopes alive, assuming they beat the Cowboys for the second time this year. I wrote the Eagles off weeks ago after they lost to Arizona 21-17 and fell to 3-6 on the year. The only reason we are even talking about the playoffs is the inability of any of the teams in the division to win on a consistent basis.
The Eagles are probably playing their best ball of the year in every phase of the game, but it is clearly a case of too little, too late. Do not be surprised if all the pieces actually do fall in place and they come away with the title with an 8-8 record. It would be a fitting end to how far the once and mighty NFC East has fallen this season.
The following is a link to my complete preview & prediction for Saturday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys
Flash forward 12 months and the Birds find themselves needing the Giants to lose just to keep their faint division hopes alive, assuming they beat the Cowboys for the second time this year. I wrote the Eagles off weeks ago after they lost to Arizona 21-17 and fell to 3-6 on the year. The only reason we are even talking about the playoffs is the inability of any of the teams in the division to win on a consistent basis.
The Eagles are probably playing their best ball of the year in every phase of the game, but it is clearly a case of too little, too late. Do not be surprised if all the pieces actually do fall in place and they come away with the title with an 8-8 record. It would be a fitting end to how far the once and mighty NFC East has fallen this season.
The following is a link to my complete preview & prediction for Saturday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys
NFC East Game Previews- NY Giants vs. NY Jets
The New York City Championship Game is slated to kick-off this Saturday, Dec. 24 when the Giants and the Jets clash at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
This game has taken on a life of its own with Rex Ryan's trash talk and major playoff implications for both teams. The Giants actually need this game the most as a loss combined with a Cowboys' win would end their shot at winning the NFC East. The Jets currently hold the No.6 seed in the AFC with the tie-breaker over Cincinnati and would still have a chance to get in with a win over the Dolphins and a Bengals loss either this week or next.
Both of these teams are actually trying to back-in the postseason after getting waxed last week in games they should have won. The Giants were routed by Washington 23-10 in a game that was not even that close. The Jets were embarrassed by the Eagles 45-19 in game that was over by the end of the first quarter. Whichever one can play anywhere near their capabilities should come away with city bragging rights as an early Christmas present.
The following is a link to my complete preview & prediction for Saturday's game as originally posted on SportsBooks.net
New York Giants vs. New York Jets
This game has taken on a life of its own with Rex Ryan's trash talk and major playoff implications for both teams. The Giants actually need this game the most as a loss combined with a Cowboys' win would end their shot at winning the NFC East. The Jets currently hold the No.6 seed in the AFC with the tie-breaker over Cincinnati and would still have a chance to get in with a win over the Dolphins and a Bengals loss either this week or next.
Both of these teams are actually trying to back-in the postseason after getting waxed last week in games they should have won. The Giants were routed by Washington 23-10 in a game that was not even that close. The Jets were embarrassed by the Eagles 45-19 in game that was over by the end of the first quarter. Whichever one can play anywhere near their capabilities should come away with city bragging rights as an early Christmas present.
The following is a link to my complete preview & prediction for Saturday's game as originally posted on SportsBooks.net
New York Giants vs. New York Jets
Saturday, December 17, 2011
NFC East Game Previews – New York Jets vs Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles come into this game at 5-8 on the year and still have a shot at winning the NFC East despite all the problems this year. While most people would describe this shot as only mathematical, the way the Giants and Cowboys have been playing this season makes their chances much better than that until either the Eagles lose again or one of those two teams wins a ninth game.
Regardless of which team actually ends up claiming the division title, it has been a lost season all the way around for the once proud and mighty NFC East. I said it before and I will go on record as emphatically stating it again; whichever team does make the playoffs will be a one-and-done no matter who it has tp play in its first game.
If it is true that misery loves company, the pathetic state of the union in this division has made it a bit easier to bear the Eagles' poor showing this year.
This Sunday the New York Jets come to town and Eagle fans would love nothing better than to see Buddy Ryan's son Rex and his team go down in flames on the turf at the Linc. Unfortunately, the Eagles have only won only one of their first six games at home this season while winning four of seven on the road. Hopefully things will change and the Birds get off to a fast start on Sunday so Andy does have to endure a constant round of 'Reid must go' chants. That could very well be the case as this sets-up as the kind of game that Phildalephia comes out and blows the doors off the Jets in a lopsided romp.
The following is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks.
NFC East Game Previews – New York Jets vs Philadelphia Eagles
Regardless of which team actually ends up claiming the division title, it has been a lost season all the way around for the once proud and mighty NFC East. I said it before and I will go on record as emphatically stating it again; whichever team does make the playoffs will be a one-and-done no matter who it has tp play in its first game.
If it is true that misery loves company, the pathetic state of the union in this division has made it a bit easier to bear the Eagles' poor showing this year.
This Sunday the New York Jets come to town and Eagle fans would love nothing better than to see Buddy Ryan's son Rex and his team go down in flames on the turf at the Linc. Unfortunately, the Eagles have only won only one of their first six games at home this season while winning four of seven on the road. Hopefully things will change and the Birds get off to a fast start on Sunday so Andy does have to endure a constant round of 'Reid must go' chants. That could very well be the case as this sets-up as the kind of game that Phildalephia comes out and blows the doors off the Jets in a lopsided romp.
The following is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks.
NFC East Game Previews – New York Jets vs Philadelphia Eagles
NFC East Game Previews – Washington Redskins vs New York Giants
A six-game losing streak earlier in the season pretty much put an end to Washington's (4-9) dreams of competing for an NFC East title this season, but it has a chance to play spoiler this Sunday by disrupting the 7-6 New York Giants' quest for the division crown.
The Redskins have already beaten the Giants once this season in an opening-day 28-14 romp as a slight underdog at home and are more than capable of pulling-off another one against a Giants' team that has been a poster-boy for inconsistency this year. That is exactly the way you could describe all four teams in the East this season as it appears that one of them will actually back into the title with a record at or just above .500.
The following is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Washington Redskins vs New York Giants
The Redskins have already beaten the Giants once this season in an opening-day 28-14 romp as a slight underdog at home and are more than capable of pulling-off another one against a Giants' team that has been a poster-boy for inconsistency this year. That is exactly the way you could describe all four teams in the East this season as it appears that one of them will actually back into the title with a record at or just above .500.
The following is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Washington Redskins vs New York Giants
NFC East Game Previews – Dallas Cowboys vs Tampa Bay Bucs
This Saturday night the Dallas Cowboys will look to keep pace with New York in the NFC East title race with a victory over the visiting Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Cowboy fans have to hope that their team can put the disappointments of the past two weeks aside and take advantage of hosting a Bucs' team that has lost its last seven games.
While you almost have to chalk this game up as a W for the 'Boys, they have done a great job at snatching defeat from the jaws of victory as of late. The following is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Saturday night's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Dallas Cowboys vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers
While you almost have to chalk this game up as a W for the 'Boys, they have done a great job at snatching defeat from the jaws of victory as of late. The following is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Saturday night's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Dallas Cowboys vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Miami Dolphins Game Preview
The Eagles are back in action this Sunday after a much-needed 10-day hiatus to tangle with the Miami Dolphins at Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens. The last time we saw our beloved Birds they were getting pecked apart by the Seahawks in front of a prime-time Thursday night audience on the NFL Network. It was one of their uglier efforts in a season filled with ugly efforts.
It appears that Andy Reid has gotten a vote of confidence from team owner Jeff Lurie that he will remain the head coach despite the rumblings that this season's debacle would cost him his job. I suggested a few weeks back that Reid himself may step down, citing burnout and exhaustion ala Dick Vermeil. That still may happen, especially if the team goes completely in the tank and loses its final four games.
The reality is that all the talent that the Eagles brought in this year could actually make them a legitimate 'dream team' if it is properly coached and Reid is well aware of this fact. He also knows this could be his best and last chance to harness this talent and turn it into a championship run in 2012.
What this team really needs is an injection of attitude and a true leader on defense. They already have one of the most explosive offenses in the league as long as DeSean Jackson gets his head screwed back on and the defense is a couple of linebackers and a real defensive coordinator away from returning to its past glory.
I actually picked the Eagles to lose to Seattle last week, but with Michael Vick back at the helm, I am going all-in on the Birds this week. It will be a close game, but I am counting on the Eagles to go out and win one for their coach, just as the 4-8 Dolphins have been doing lately in probably a fruitless effort to save Tony Sparano's job as theirs.
The following is my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Miami Dolphins Game Preview
It appears that Andy Reid has gotten a vote of confidence from team owner Jeff Lurie that he will remain the head coach despite the rumblings that this season's debacle would cost him his job. I suggested a few weeks back that Reid himself may step down, citing burnout and exhaustion ala Dick Vermeil. That still may happen, especially if the team goes completely in the tank and loses its final four games.
The reality is that all the talent that the Eagles brought in this year could actually make them a legitimate 'dream team' if it is properly coached and Reid is well aware of this fact. He also knows this could be his best and last chance to harness this talent and turn it into a championship run in 2012.
What this team really needs is an injection of attitude and a true leader on defense. They already have one of the most explosive offenses in the league as long as DeSean Jackson gets his head screwed back on and the defense is a couple of linebackers and a real defensive coordinator away from returning to its past glory.
I actually picked the Eagles to lose to Seattle last week, but with Michael Vick back at the helm, I am going all-in on the Birds this week. It will be a close game, but I am counting on the Eagles to go out and win one for their coach, just as the 4-8 Dolphins have been doing lately in probably a fruitless effort to save Tony Sparano's job as theirs.
The following is my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Miami Dolphins Game Preview
NFC East Game Previews- New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys
The lead in the NFC East will be on the line this Sunday night when the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys play the first of this season's home-and-home series. Sunday's game is at Cowboys Stadium and they play each other again at MetLife Stadium in the final game of the regular season on New Year's Day.
Nobody has been lighting things up in the division this season, but the current rules state that someone has to win the East and go to the playoffs. My bet is that whichever team gets that assignment will be a one-and-done no matter who or where they play.
The key missing ingredient from both of these teams this season has been consistency. Each has looked like the 'next great thing' and each has lost games they should have easily won. The Giants pulled-out a dramatic 24-20 win over New England in Week 9 and then proceeded to lose their last four games.
Dallas streaked through the month of November with four straight wins to bring all those fair-weather Cowboy fans out of the wood work. The reality is, this team is just not that good. This became painfully evident in last Sunday's 19-13 overtime loss to Arizona, but as I mentioned before, somebody has to win the NFC East.
The following is a link to my complete preview of Sunday night's game as originally posted on Bang the Book
NFC East Game Previews- New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys
Nobody has been lighting things up in the division this season, but the current rules state that someone has to win the East and go to the playoffs. My bet is that whichever team gets that assignment will be a one-and-done no matter who or where they play.
The key missing ingredient from both of these teams this season has been consistency. Each has looked like the 'next great thing' and each has lost games they should have easily won. The Giants pulled-out a dramatic 24-20 win over New England in Week 9 and then proceeded to lose their last four games.
Dallas streaked through the month of November with four straight wins to bring all those fair-weather Cowboy fans out of the wood work. The reality is, this team is just not that good. This became painfully evident in last Sunday's 19-13 overtime loss to Arizona, but as I mentioned before, somebody has to win the NFC East.
The following is a link to my complete preview of Sunday night's game as originally posted on Bang the Book
NFC East Game Previews- New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys
NFC East Game Previews – Patriots vs Redskins
The New England Patriots will look to complete their jaunt through the NFC East with a 3-1 record when they face Washington this Sunday afternoon. The Patriots come in with a 9-3 record while the Redskins are battling it out with the Eagles to stay out of the division basement at 4-8.
The following is a link to my complete preview and pick of Sunday's matchup as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Patriots vs Redskins
The following is a link to my complete preview and pick of Sunday's matchup as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Patriots vs Redskins
Friday, December 2, 2011
NFC East Game Previews – Green Bay Packers vs New York Giants
The Green Bay Packers put their perfect 11-0 record on the line this Sunday when they face the New York Giants on the road at MetLife Stadium. Green Bay is favored by almost a touchdown over the Giants, but they face a desperate New York team whose whole season is on the line after posting three losses in the last three weeks.
Desperation has a tendency of bringing out the best of the Giants as much like another New York team, they know how to 'circle the wagons' when they need to the most. The following is a link to my complete preview & prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Green Bay Packers vs New York Giants
Desperation has a tendency of bringing out the best of the Giants as much like another New York team, they know how to 'circle the wagons' when they need to the most. The following is a link to my complete preview & prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Green Bay Packers vs New York Giants
NFC East Game Previews – Dallas Cowboys vs Arizona Cardinals
Dallas finds itself the lead dog in the NFC East Division race and will look to put a bit more distance between itself and the rest of the pack with a win this Sunday in the desert. Arizona would love nothing better than to throw a kink in the Cowboys plans and should have Kevin Kolb back at quarterback to help pull-off the upset.
The following is my complete preview & prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Cowboys vs Cardinals
The following is my complete preview & prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Cowboys vs Cardinals
NFC East Game Previews – New York Jets vs. Washington Redskins
The New York Jets pay a visit to FedEx Field this Sunday to square-off against the Washington Redskins in desperate need of a win to stay in the AFC playoff race. This will not be an easy W for a Jets' team that has played inconsistent all season long.
The following is a link to my complete preview & prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – New York Jets vs. Washington Redskins
The following is a link to my complete preview & prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – New York Jets vs. Washington Redskins
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
NFL Week 13 Betting Previews- Philadelphia Eagles vs. Seattle Seahawks
When the Eagles limp into CenturyLink Stadium this Thursday night to play Seattle they will not only be playing for pride, they will be playing for their jobs. You cannot help but feel that everyone from Andy Reid down to the water boys will be under the microscope over the final five games to see who will be back after one of the most disappointing seasons since Jeff Lurie bought the team.
I believe that Reid's job is safe unless the team loses out, but the bigger question is will he return after 13 long, hard season's at the helm of one of the most scrutinized franchises in the NFL. You have figure that this season took a huge chunk of energy out of him and he may opt for a year or two off to recharge the batteries.
The one thing that is for sure, is that this team will look radically different on opening day next season than the one that walks off the field at the Linc on New Year's Day when time runs out in its final regular season game this year against the Redskins. It remains to see who will go and who will stay, but the current plan of assembling a bunch of over-priced talent obviously did not work, so it is back to the drawing board to try and get the Birds back on top in the NFC East.
Below is a link to my complete preview & pick for Thursday's game as originally posted on SportsBooks.Net
NFL Week 13 Betting Previews- Philadelphia Eagles vs. Seattle Seahawks
I believe that Reid's job is safe unless the team loses out, but the bigger question is will he return after 13 long, hard season's at the helm of one of the most scrutinized franchises in the NFL. You have figure that this season took a huge chunk of energy out of him and he may opt for a year or two off to recharge the batteries.
The one thing that is for sure, is that this team will look radically different on opening day next season than the one that walks off the field at the Linc on New Year's Day when time runs out in its final regular season game this year against the Redskins. It remains to see who will go and who will stay, but the current plan of assembling a bunch of over-priced talent obviously did not work, so it is back to the drawing board to try and get the Birds back on top in the NFC East.
Below is a link to my complete preview & pick for Thursday's game as originally posted on SportsBooks.Net
NFL Week 13 Betting Previews- Philadelphia Eagles vs. Seattle Seahawks
Saturday, November 26, 2011
New England Patriots vs. Philadelphia Eagles Preview & Free Week 12 Pick
The Eagles refused to let the Giants pull the plug on their season last Sunday night with a rare come-from behind 17-10 victory. Unfortunately, they may have no choice about throwing in the towel after this Sunday, with New England coming to town.
It looks like Vince Young will once again get the start in this game with Michael Vick still recovering from broken ribs. He had a decent game against the New York in relief of Vick, however the outcome of this game will be dictated by how well Philadelphia's defense plays. Last week's win gave us a glimmer of hope that this high-priced and over-priced unit can live up to all the hype. If it finds a way to keep Tom Brady & Co. in check then I might start to believe.
Anyone who reads this blog on a regular basis already knows that I have already threw in the towel for this season mainly because of the huge hole the Birds already dug for themselves, but also because no team out of the NFC East is going anywhere this season. Somebody has to win the division, but whichever team it is will be a 'one and done' in the postseason.
Below is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game against the Patriots as originally posted on Cappers Picks
New England Patriots vs. Philadelphia Eagles Preview & Free Week 12 Pick
It looks like Vince Young will once again get the start in this game with Michael Vick still recovering from broken ribs. He had a decent game against the New York in relief of Vick, however the outcome of this game will be dictated by how well Philadelphia's defense plays. Last week's win gave us a glimmer of hope that this high-priced and over-priced unit can live up to all the hype. If it finds a way to keep Tom Brady & Co. in check then I might start to believe.
Anyone who reads this blog on a regular basis already knows that I have already threw in the towel for this season mainly because of the huge hole the Birds already dug for themselves, but also because no team out of the NFC East is going anywhere this season. Somebody has to win the division, but whichever team it is will be a 'one and done' in the postseason.
Below is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game against the Patriots as originally posted on Cappers Picks
New England Patriots vs. Philadelphia Eagles Preview & Free Week 12 Pick
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
NFC East Game Previews – Miami Dolphins at Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have suddenly become the darling of the NFC East by virtue of a 6-4 record and first-place tie with New York for the lead in the division.
If Washington kicker Graham Gano's 52-yard field goal attempt in overtime of last Sunday's game would have been good, everyone would be talking about how the Cowboys let another game slip away. However since it went wide and Dallas ended-up squeaking-out a 27-24 victory, the 'Boys are back in the spotlight on ESPN and the NFL Network.
Here is a news alert in case anyone has not been closely following the NFC East this season; this division is a non-factor. Even though at least one of the teams has to be included in the playoffs, there is a good chance it will be a one-and done no matter which team wins the division title.
The Cowboys will win their Turkey Day game against the Dolphins (unless it snows in Dallas) and continue to create the illusion that they can compete with the elite teams in the NFC, but the reality is that the NFC East is much like the Big East in college football; a closet Mid-Major in a major conference world.
Below is a link to my complete preview & pick for Thursday's Miami vs. Dallas game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Miami Dolphins at Dallas Cowboys
If Washington kicker Graham Gano's 52-yard field goal attempt in overtime of last Sunday's game would have been good, everyone would be talking about how the Cowboys let another game slip away. However since it went wide and Dallas ended-up squeaking-out a 27-24 victory, the 'Boys are back in the spotlight on ESPN and the NFL Network.
Here is a news alert in case anyone has not been closely following the NFC East this season; this division is a non-factor. Even though at least one of the teams has to be included in the playoffs, there is a good chance it will be a one-and done no matter which team wins the division title.
The Cowboys will win their Turkey Day game against the Dolphins (unless it snows in Dallas) and continue to create the illusion that they can compete with the elite teams in the NFC, but the reality is that the NFC East is much like the Big East in college football; a closet Mid-Major in a major conference world.
Below is a link to my complete preview & pick for Thursday's Miami vs. Dallas game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Miami Dolphins at Dallas Cowboys
Friday, November 18, 2011
NFC East Game Previews- Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Giants
Before the season started, I had this game circled on the schedule as the Eagles' coming-out party as not only the best team in the division, but as one of the top two teams in the NFC. Well after last week's debacle against Arizona, I have officially written this year off as a lost season even though there are still seven games remaining on the schedule.
I feel bad quitting on this team and my poor father is probably rolling around in his grave as he would equate this poor attitude to someone leaving the game in the third quarter, but unfortunately the reality of the current state of this team leaves me no choice. Let's go back in time to the 2005 regular season when the Birds were coming off a tough loss to New England in the Super Bowl, but were one of the favorites to return to the NFC title game with a team that was still loaded with talent. Terrell Owens started the downfall but the rest of the squad quickly followed suit in what resulted in a disappointing 6-10 record and an early exit to the offseason.
In the spirit of T.O., DeSean Jackson has picked-up the torch of disgruntled wide receiver but he is just a minor part of what is wrong with this team. Unfortunately in the NFL, shiny and new is often more effective than tried and true. Andy Reid could almost be considered a dinosaur for his 12 years as a head coach with the same team, especially in a town like Philadelphia. Right now he is the most tenured coach in the league, which is as much of a curse as it is an accomplishment.
As the weather turns cold in South Philly, the winds of change are also starting to swirl much harder around the perimeter of Lincoln Financial Field. The best thing that can happen from this point on is for the Eagles to maintain their current form so that Reid can pull a Dick Vermeil and quietly excuse himself from the top spot, citing burnout as the primary reason for doing so. This would give him a year off to recharge his batteries and come back stronger than ever with another team.
Nothing lasts forever, especially in the NFL, and it is time for a clean sweep on a team that is obviously headed in the wrong direction. What would remain is a enough talent to win right away with a young buck in place to relight the fire under a franchise whose pilot light has clearly gone out.
For what it is worth, below is a link to my complete preview and pick for Sunday night’s game against the Giants as originally posted on Bang the Book.
NFC East Game Previews- Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Giants
I feel bad quitting on this team and my poor father is probably rolling around in his grave as he would equate this poor attitude to someone leaving the game in the third quarter, but unfortunately the reality of the current state of this team leaves me no choice. Let's go back in time to the 2005 regular season when the Birds were coming off a tough loss to New England in the Super Bowl, but were one of the favorites to return to the NFC title game with a team that was still loaded with talent. Terrell Owens started the downfall but the rest of the squad quickly followed suit in what resulted in a disappointing 6-10 record and an early exit to the offseason.
In the spirit of T.O., DeSean Jackson has picked-up the torch of disgruntled wide receiver but he is just a minor part of what is wrong with this team. Unfortunately in the NFL, shiny and new is often more effective than tried and true. Andy Reid could almost be considered a dinosaur for his 12 years as a head coach with the same team, especially in a town like Philadelphia. Right now he is the most tenured coach in the league, which is as much of a curse as it is an accomplishment.
As the weather turns cold in South Philly, the winds of change are also starting to swirl much harder around the perimeter of Lincoln Financial Field. The best thing that can happen from this point on is for the Eagles to maintain their current form so that Reid can pull a Dick Vermeil and quietly excuse himself from the top spot, citing burnout as the primary reason for doing so. This would give him a year off to recharge his batteries and come back stronger than ever with another team.
Nothing lasts forever, especially in the NFL, and it is time for a clean sweep on a team that is obviously headed in the wrong direction. What would remain is a enough talent to win right away with a young buck in place to relight the fire under a franchise whose pilot light has clearly gone out.
For what it is worth, below is a link to my complete preview and pick for Sunday night’s game against the Giants as originally posted on Bang the Book.
NFC East Game Previews- Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Giants
NFC East Game Previews- Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Redskins
On the undercard of a NFC East double-header this Sunday, the Dallas Cowboys look to keep pace with New York in the division race when they take-on a woeful Washington squad that has now lost five straight games after a surprising 3-1 start.
This game offers the Cowboys an opportunity to not only go 6-4 overall, but to establish themselves as a legitimate playoff team after suffering through an up-and-down start. They come in with a two game winning streak after beating Seattle 23-13 two weeks ago and crushing Buffalo 44-7 last Sunday. Tony Romo has been able to put the inconsistencies of earlier this year behind him and the Dallas defense is stepping things up on the other side of the ball. The lingering problem for this team is a rash of lingering injuries to some of its best players. Wide receiver Miles Austin remains out until later this month with a strained hamstring and running backs' Felix Jones and DeMarco Murray are still a bit nicked-up.
Below is a link to my complete preview and pick of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Pick.
NFC East Game Previews- Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Redskins
This game offers the Cowboys an opportunity to not only go 6-4 overall, but to establish themselves as a legitimate playoff team after suffering through an up-and-down start. They come in with a two game winning streak after beating Seattle 23-13 two weeks ago and crushing Buffalo 44-7 last Sunday. Tony Romo has been able to put the inconsistencies of earlier this year behind him and the Dallas defense is stepping things up on the other side of the ball. The lingering problem for this team is a rash of lingering injuries to some of its best players. Wide receiver Miles Austin remains out until later this month with a strained hamstring and running backs' Felix Jones and DeMarco Murray are still a bit nicked-up.
Below is a link to my complete preview and pick of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Pick.
NFC East Game Previews- Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Redskins
Friday, November 11, 2011
NFC East Game Previews – Arizona Cardinals vs Philadelphia Eagles
This Sunday's Cardinals-Eagles game remains 'off the board' in Las Vegas most likely due to the uncertain playing status of Kevin Kolb. The former Eagles quarterback is suffering from a severe case of turf toe and a bone bruise in his foot he sustained two weeks ago against Baltimore. While he is currently listed as doubtful on the latest injury list, Kolb has vowed to do whatever it takes to get a shot at adding to his old team's misery by tagging Philly with its sixth loss in its first nine games.
To me, it does not matter if Kolb plays or holds a clip board on the sidelines, as this game is one final gut-check for a team that has basically thrown away a golden opportunity at making a legitimate championship run. In their first five losses the Birds have repeatedly beaten themselves, as they had numerous chances to come away with a victory in all five of those games. Last Monday night's game made me sick to my stomach as the Eagle's multi-million dollar secondary made Jay Cutler look like the second-coming of Joe Montana.
The Falcons,Giants,49ers, Bills,and now the Bears did not beat the Eagles. As mentioned before, the Eagles beat themselves. If we have to add the Cardinals to this list then all is lost for this season and possibly for Andy Reid as well. If he cannot get his team ready for a matchup against a 2-6 team playing on the road with an offense that is ranked 22nd in the NFL and a defense that is ranked 23rd, it is probably time for Jeff Lurie to start a search for someone who can.
Below is a link to my complete preview & pick for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Arizona Cardinals vs Philadelphia Eagles
To me, it does not matter if Kolb plays or holds a clip board on the sidelines, as this game is one final gut-check for a team that has basically thrown away a golden opportunity at making a legitimate championship run. In their first five losses the Birds have repeatedly beaten themselves, as they had numerous chances to come away with a victory in all five of those games. Last Monday night's game made me sick to my stomach as the Eagle's multi-million dollar secondary made Jay Cutler look like the second-coming of Joe Montana.
The Falcons,Giants,49ers, Bills,and now the Bears did not beat the Eagles. As mentioned before, the Eagles beat themselves. If we have to add the Cardinals to this list then all is lost for this season and possibly for Andy Reid as well. If he cannot get his team ready for a matchup against a 2-6 team playing on the road with an offense that is ranked 22nd in the NFL and a defense that is ranked 23rd, it is probably time for Jeff Lurie to start a search for someone who can.
Below is a link to my complete preview & pick for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Arizona Cardinals vs Philadelphia Eagles
NFC East Game Previews- New York Giants vs. San Francisco 49ers
The New York Giants' path back to the postseason became a tad bit easier after a pulling out a huge 24-20 last-second victory over the heavily favored New England Patriots last Sunday. The schedule ahead is still brutal starting with this week's game against the 49ers, but they have a two-game lead over Dallas and a three-game advantage over the Eagles, so they can now afford one or two slip-ups along the way and still come away with the division title.
The other major factor in the Giants favor is they appear to be the only team in the East that can win games on a consistent basis. Both the Cowboys and the Eagles have grasped defeat from the jaws of victory this season and remain totally unpredictable from one week to the next.
Below is a link to my complete preview & pick for Sunday's game as originally posted on SportsBooks.Net
NFC East Previews- New York Giants vs. San Francisco 49ers
The other major factor in the Giants favor is they appear to be the only team in the East that can win games on a consistent basis. Both the Cowboys and the Eagles have grasped defeat from the jaws of victory this season and remain totally unpredictable from one week to the next.
Below is a link to my complete preview & pick for Sunday's game as originally posted on SportsBooks.Net
NFC East Previews- New York Giants vs. San Francisco 49ers
NFC East Game Previews – Buffalo Bills vs Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys will try and keep pace with the New York Giants in the NFC East Division with a win over Buffalo this Sunday. After last week's 23-13 win over Seattle, the Cowboys evened their record to 4-4 while the Giants improved to 6-2 with a huge 24-20 victory over New England.
Tony Romo will be missing a huge piece of the offensive attack with his favorite receiver Mile Austin on the shelf with a hamstring injury. The other bad news is that running back Felix Jones, who missed the past three games with a high ankle sprain is most likely out of this one as well. Fortunately for Dallas, rookie running back DeMarco Murray continues to fill the void in Jone's absence. This game will still come down to Romo and the idea of putting the game on his back is just what the Bills need to pull-out a win on the road as 5.5-point underdogs.
Below is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Buffalo Bills vs Dallas Cowboys
Tony Romo will be missing a huge piece of the offensive attack with his favorite receiver Mile Austin on the shelf with a hamstring injury. The other bad news is that running back Felix Jones, who missed the past three games with a high ankle sprain is most likely out of this one as well. Fortunately for Dallas, rookie running back DeMarco Murray continues to fill the void in Jone's absence. This game will still come down to Romo and the idea of putting the game on his back is just what the Bills need to pull-out a win on the road as 5.5-point underdogs.
Below is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Buffalo Bills vs Dallas Cowboys
Friday, November 4, 2011
NFL Week 9 Monday Night Football- Chicago Bears vs. Philadelphia Eagles
The Chicago Bears, fresh off their bye week, come to town this Monday night in a prime-time clash with the suddenly rejuvenated Eagles. At face value with the Birds currently listed as a touchdown or more home favorite, it appears that this game should result in a 4-4 record for both teams through the first half of the regular season.
However, before you go and chalk this one up in the win column for the Eagles, keep in mind the fact that they were favored by nine-points against the Giants and 9.5 points against the 49ers at home earlier in the year and we all know how both those games ended-up. Also keep in mind that the Bears have just about owned Philly in recent memory with a 3-1 record in the last four seasons. Before that, the roles were reversed when Donovan McNabb was in his heyday, with five straight Philadelphia victories.
In typical fashion, I am chalking this one up as another convincing victory for the high-flying Birds. Playing in prime time at the Linc always seems to bring out the best out of Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson on offense and Trent Cole on the defensive side of the ball. In reality, look for another heavy dose of LeSean McCoy as Andy Reid continues to prove people wrong that he hates to run the ball. The truth is, he just hates to lose and will do whatever it takes even if it means creating a balanced attack on offense. You know, the one that we have been coveting since Deuce Staley and Brian Westbrook roamed the backfield.
Also, this is traditionally the time of the year when Philadelphia reels-off five or six straight victories to get everyone all fired-up for a Super Bowl run, before losing a key game or two down the stretch to return us back to reality.
Copied below by special permission of Golden Affiliates and GamblingIQ is my complete preview of Monday night's game:
Monday Night Football Betting Preview- Chicago Bears vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Point spread: Philadelphia -9
Over/Under: 47.5
The well-rested Chicago Bears come off of their bye week to tangle with the high-powered Philadelphia Eagles this Monday night in front of a prime-time audience at Lincoln Financial Field. The kick-off for this NFC clash is slated for 8:30 p.m. and the game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.
Chicago went into its bye week at 4-3 straight-up (3-4 against the spread) after a 24-18 victory over Tampa Bay in London as a 1.5-point favorite. The total stayed ‘under’ the 44-point line in this game and has now stayed ‘under’ in four of its seven games this year.Look for a heavy dose of running back Matt Forte in this game as the Bears will try and exploit an Eagles’ defense that has struggled to stop the run this year. This will also take the pressure of a Jay Cutler, who looked less than spectacular against the Buccaneers. He completed just 53.1 percent of his throws and was intercepted twice.
Philadelphia came off its bye last week against Dallas and finally played like the team that many people had penciled-in as one of the top three in the league. Its 34-7 demolition of the Cowboys as a three-point home favorite raised its record to 3-4 both SU and ATS. The total stayed ‘under’ the 49-point line, but it has gone ‘over’ in four of its previous six games.The victory over Dallas proved that if Michael Vick takes care of the ball, and the rest of the offense eliminates the mistakes that plagued it in its four-game losing streak, there are few defenses in the league that can stop this team. The Eagles are now ranked first in the NFL in total yards per game and an impressive first in rushing offense with an average of 179.9 yards a game.
The Bears are 4-11-1 ATS in their last 16 games as an underdog on the road. The total has stayed ‘under’ in 20 of their last 28 road games.
The Eagles are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games as a favorite, but they are 4-0 ATS in their last four Monday night games. The total has stayed ‘under’ in five of their last six home games.
These two have played each other the last four seasons with Chicago holding a 3-1 edge both SU and ATS. This time around, stick with Michael Vick the Eagles to put on another prime-time show that results in another big win at home.
The Pick: Philadelphia 34 Chicago 20
However, before you go and chalk this one up in the win column for the Eagles, keep in mind the fact that they were favored by nine-points against the Giants and 9.5 points against the 49ers at home earlier in the year and we all know how both those games ended-up. Also keep in mind that the Bears have just about owned Philly in recent memory with a 3-1 record in the last four seasons. Before that, the roles were reversed when Donovan McNabb was in his heyday, with five straight Philadelphia victories.
In typical fashion, I am chalking this one up as another convincing victory for the high-flying Birds. Playing in prime time at the Linc always seems to bring out the best out of Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson on offense and Trent Cole on the defensive side of the ball. In reality, look for another heavy dose of LeSean McCoy as Andy Reid continues to prove people wrong that he hates to run the ball. The truth is, he just hates to lose and will do whatever it takes even if it means creating a balanced attack on offense. You know, the one that we have been coveting since Deuce Staley and Brian Westbrook roamed the backfield.
Also, this is traditionally the time of the year when Philadelphia reels-off five or six straight victories to get everyone all fired-up for a Super Bowl run, before losing a key game or two down the stretch to return us back to reality.
Copied below by special permission of Golden Affiliates and GamblingIQ is my complete preview of Monday night's game:
Monday Night Football Betting Preview- Chicago Bears vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Point spread: Philadelphia -9
Over/Under: 47.5
The well-rested Chicago Bears come off of their bye week to tangle with the high-powered Philadelphia Eagles this Monday night in front of a prime-time audience at Lincoln Financial Field. The kick-off for this NFC clash is slated for 8:30 p.m. and the game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.
Chicago went into its bye week at 4-3 straight-up (3-4 against the spread) after a 24-18 victory over Tampa Bay in London as a 1.5-point favorite. The total stayed ‘under’ the 44-point line in this game and has now stayed ‘under’ in four of its seven games this year.Look for a heavy dose of running back Matt Forte in this game as the Bears will try and exploit an Eagles’ defense that has struggled to stop the run this year. This will also take the pressure of a Jay Cutler, who looked less than spectacular against the Buccaneers. He completed just 53.1 percent of his throws and was intercepted twice.
Philadelphia came off its bye last week against Dallas and finally played like the team that many people had penciled-in as one of the top three in the league. Its 34-7 demolition of the Cowboys as a three-point home favorite raised its record to 3-4 both SU and ATS. The total stayed ‘under’ the 49-point line, but it has gone ‘over’ in four of its previous six games.The victory over Dallas proved that if Michael Vick takes care of the ball, and the rest of the offense eliminates the mistakes that plagued it in its four-game losing streak, there are few defenses in the league that can stop this team. The Eagles are now ranked first in the NFL in total yards per game and an impressive first in rushing offense with an average of 179.9 yards a game.
The Bears are 4-11-1 ATS in their last 16 games as an underdog on the road. The total has stayed ‘under’ in 20 of their last 28 road games.
The Eagles are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games as a favorite, but they are 4-0 ATS in their last four Monday night games. The total has stayed ‘under’ in five of their last six home games.
These two have played each other the last four seasons with Chicago holding a 3-1 edge both SU and ATS. This time around, stick with Michael Vick the Eagles to put on another prime-time show that results in another big win at home.
The Pick: Philadelphia 34 Chicago 20
NFL Week 9 Previews – New York Giants vs New England Patriots
The New York Giants squeaked-by the winless Miami Dolphins 20-17 last week in one of their last tomato cans on the schedule for quite some time. After this week's trip to Foxborough to face the 5-2 Patriots they head out west to face the surprisingly-good 6-1 San Francisco 49ers.
This sets-up Round 2 with the Eagles at MetLife Stadium in a Sunday night prime-time showdown that could very well be for the lead in the NFC East. After that, the Giants go back on the road to face the New Orleans Saints at the Superdome, which is never an easy place to win a game no matter how the Saints are playing. To top things off, New York returns home in Week 13 to host the best team in the league when the undefeated Green Bay Packers come to town.
This brutal stretch of games plays right into the Eagles' hands assuming that they have put the four-game debacle of earlier this season behind. The Birds have Chicago at home this Monday night, before heading to the desert to play the 1-6 Arizona Cardinals. After its tilt with the Giants in Week 11, Philadelphia hosts New England in what should be an offensive assault on the senses. From there, the Eagles return out west to take-on the 2-5 Seattle Seahawks, in what will be a tougher game than advertised.
According to my calculations, the Giants current 5-2 record by then will be a much more modest 6-6, while the Eagles will now have the edge for the division title at 7-5.
From there, New York has Dallas twice, Washington, and New York (Jets) left on the slate, while the Birds face the Dolphins, Jets, Cowboys, and Redskins on their dance card. This could leave both teams at 10-6 as they were last year with the tie-breaker up in the air (assuming the Eagles beat the Giants the second time around), but I am more bullish on Philadelphia to win the division outright at 11-5.
But I digress. Let's go back to the beginning of this whole exercise with this week's matchup against the Patriots. Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFL Week 9 Previews – New York Giants vs New England Patriots
This sets-up Round 2 with the Eagles at MetLife Stadium in a Sunday night prime-time showdown that could very well be for the lead in the NFC East. After that, the Giants go back on the road to face the New Orleans Saints at the Superdome, which is never an easy place to win a game no matter how the Saints are playing. To top things off, New York returns home in Week 13 to host the best team in the league when the undefeated Green Bay Packers come to town.
This brutal stretch of games plays right into the Eagles' hands assuming that they have put the four-game debacle of earlier this season behind. The Birds have Chicago at home this Monday night, before heading to the desert to play the 1-6 Arizona Cardinals. After its tilt with the Giants in Week 11, Philadelphia hosts New England in what should be an offensive assault on the senses. From there, the Eagles return out west to take-on the 2-5 Seattle Seahawks, in what will be a tougher game than advertised.
According to my calculations, the Giants current 5-2 record by then will be a much more modest 6-6, while the Eagles will now have the edge for the division title at 7-5.
From there, New York has Dallas twice, Washington, and New York (Jets) left on the slate, while the Birds face the Dolphins, Jets, Cowboys, and Redskins on their dance card. This could leave both teams at 10-6 as they were last year with the tie-breaker up in the air (assuming the Eagles beat the Giants the second time around), but I am more bullish on Philadelphia to win the division outright at 11-5.
But I digress. Let's go back to the beginning of this whole exercise with this week's matchup against the Patriots. Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFL Week 9 Previews – New York Giants vs New England Patriots
Thursday, October 27, 2011
NFC East Game Previews- Dallas Cowboys vs. Philadelphia Eagles
This Sunday night the Cowboys and Eagles renew one of the best and most heated rivalries in the NFL. As an added bonus, this is basically a must-win game for both teams as the loser would find themselves on the outside looking in when it comes to the NFC East division race.
The Eagles are coming off a bye, which bodes well for the Birds as Andy Reid's teams are a perfect 12-0 after a week off during the regular season. If there ever was a year when this streak could end, this would be it after a shaky start has the Eagles at 2-4 on the year. The turnaround hopefully started with a pre-bye 20-13 victory over Washington, but if they are going to have any chance of coming anywhere close to living up to the incredible expectations that were placed on this team before the season started, a win against the Cowboys is imperative to say the least.
Below is a link to my full preview of Sunday night's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews- Dallas Cowboys vs. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are coming off a bye, which bodes well for the Birds as Andy Reid's teams are a perfect 12-0 after a week off during the regular season. If there ever was a year when this streak could end, this would be it after a shaky start has the Eagles at 2-4 on the year. The turnaround hopefully started with a pre-bye 20-13 victory over Washington, but if they are going to have any chance of coming anywhere close to living up to the incredible expectations that were placed on this team before the season started, a win against the Cowboys is imperative to say the least.
Below is a link to my full preview of Sunday night's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews- Dallas Cowboys vs. Philadelphia Eagles
NFC East Game Previews – Miami Dolphins vs. New York Giants
The NFL schedule makers did not realize that they game the New York Giants back-to-back byes this season, but this week's game against Miami basically equates to having three full weeks to prepare for next week's game against New England in Foxborough.
I get the whole "any given Sunday" concept, but the Giants coming off a week's rest and playing at home almost ensures that the Dolphins remain winless on the year. A win would run their record to 5-2 and keep them in the lead in the NFC East no matter happens in the Cowboys-Eagles game. This game will also be their last as doublle-digit favorites for quite awhile with a brutal stretch of games coming up. After going to New England next week, New York stays on the road to face the surprisingly good San Francisco 49ers. It returns home to host the Eagles, goes back on the road to play New Orleans, and then comes back home to welcome the Green Bay Packers to East Rutherford.
Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Miami Dolphins vs. New York Giants
I get the whole "any given Sunday" concept, but the Giants coming off a week's rest and playing at home almost ensures that the Dolphins remain winless on the year. A win would run their record to 5-2 and keep them in the lead in the NFC East no matter happens in the Cowboys-Eagles game. This game will also be their last as doublle-digit favorites for quite awhile with a brutal stretch of games coming up. After going to New England next week, New York stays on the road to face the surprisingly good San Francisco 49ers. It returns home to host the Eagles, goes back on the road to play New Orleans, and then comes back home to welcome the Green Bay Packers to East Rutherford.
Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews – Miami Dolphins vs. New York Giants
NFC East Game Previews- Washington Redskins vs. Buffalo Bills
The Washington Redskins early sprint to the top of the NFC East is in serious danger of turning into a long, downhill marathon to the division's basement after not only losing their last two games, but losing their tight end, Chris Cooley and best running back, Tim Hightower to season-ending injuries. Wide Receiver Santana Moss is out until at least mid-November and several other key players remain questionable for this Sunday.
This team is simply not deep enough to absorb that many injuries and still be able to win enough games to keep pace in the East. The other issue at hand is at quarterback where John Beck has replaced Rex Grossman as the starter after Grossman imploded against the Eagles with four interceptions. Neither of these QB's is going to strike fear into any defensive secondary in the league which makes the injury to Hightower that much more devastating.
This week the Redskins head north of the border for a late Sunday afternoon game against Buffalo at the Rogers Centre in Toronto. Below is a link to my complete preview of the game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews- Washington Redskins vs. Buffalo Bills
This team is simply not deep enough to absorb that many injuries and still be able to win enough games to keep pace in the East. The other issue at hand is at quarterback where John Beck has replaced Rex Grossman as the starter after Grossman imploded against the Eagles with four interceptions. Neither of these QB's is going to strike fear into any defensive secondary in the league which makes the injury to Hightower that much more devastating.
This week the Redskins head north of the border for a late Sunday afternoon game against Buffalo at the Rogers Centre in Toronto. Below is a link to my complete preview of the game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Game Previews- Washington Redskins vs. Buffalo Bills
Friday, October 21, 2011
Eagles Bye Week Review
This post will be shorter than expected as I never imagined that the Eagles would be a paltry 2-4 heading into their bye week. The highlights of the first six games have been few and far between and my hopes for a glorious trip to Indianapolis this Winter have been dashed on the rocks of broken dreams. I still think the Birds will salvage this season with an NFC East title and return trip to the playoffs, but they are not the stuff of Champions in their current state and it is very doubtful this will change over final 10 games of the season.
What this debacle has done is force me to go back and look at my preseason predictions for the first six games just to see how far off-base I actual was. My prediction for a 12-4 season is still alive, but on life-support with a hand on firmly grasp around the plug that is ready to pull the cord at any minute.
As they say, 'read it and weep'
Week 1 – September 11, 2011 – at St Louis (1:00 PM) 24-17 W
31-13 W
Week 2 – September 18, 2011 – at Atlanta (8:20 PM) 30-13 W
35-31 L
Week 3 – September 25, 2011 – vs New York Giants (1:00 PM) 34-31 W
29-16 L
Week 4 – October 2, 2011 – vs San Francisco (1:00 PM) 27-10 W
24-23 L
Week 5 – October 9, 2011 – at Buffalo (1:00 PM) 20-13 W
31-24 L
Week 6 – October 16,2011 – at Washington (1:00 PM) 24-21 L
20-13 W
What this debacle has done is force me to go back and look at my preseason predictions for the first six games just to see how far off-base I actual was. My prediction for a 12-4 season is still alive, but on life-support with a hand on firmly grasp around the plug that is ready to pull the cord at any minute.
As they say, 'read it and weep'
Week 1 – September 11, 2011 – at St Louis (1:00 PM) 24-17 W
31-13 W
Week 2 – September 18, 2011 – at Atlanta (8:20 PM) 30-13 W
35-31 L
Week 3 – September 25, 2011 – vs New York Giants (1:00 PM) 34-31 W
29-16 L
Week 4 – October 2, 2011 – vs San Francisco (1:00 PM) 27-10 W
24-23 L
Week 5 – October 9, 2011 – at Buffalo (1:00 PM) 20-13 W
31-24 L
Week 6 – October 16,2011 – at Washington (1:00 PM) 24-21 L
20-13 W
Friday, October 14, 2011
NFC East Game Previews- Philadelphia Eagles vs. Washington Redskins
Before last week's game against Buffalo, I was using phrases such as 'now or never' and 'do or die' to describe the importance of that game. After witnessing another mess of mistakes, costly penalties, and a slew of turnovers that dropped the Eagles into a 1-4 hole with a downright ugly 31-24 loss to the Bills, I am at a loss for words to describe the importance of this week's game against Washington.
To quote Bruce Springsteen, one of my favorite musicians in the world, this week I am going to "stand back and let it all be". Everyone from Andy Reid down to the water boys fully understand the significance of Sunday's game. This team will either pick itself up and play to the level it is capable of, or it will once again flounder its way to a fifth-straight loss.
At this point, even a sloppy win would be exceptable, but if the Eagles are to have any chance to once again become relevant in the conversation of legitimate playoff teams, they need to make a statement like they did in last season's trip to FedEx Field.
Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks.
Philadelphia vs. Washington
To quote Bruce Springsteen, one of my favorite musicians in the world, this week I am going to "stand back and let it all be". Everyone from Andy Reid down to the water boys fully understand the significance of Sunday's game. This team will either pick itself up and play to the level it is capable of, or it will once again flounder its way to a fifth-straight loss.
At this point, even a sloppy win would be exceptable, but if the Eagles are to have any chance to once again become relevant in the conversation of legitimate playoff teams, they need to make a statement like they did in last season's trip to FedEx Field.
Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks.
Philadelphia vs. Washington
NFC East Previews- Buffalo Bills vs. New York Giants
The Giants are 3-2 this season and playing true to form with a couple of solid performances and a couple of head-scratchers that have plagued this team over the past few seasons.
They opened the season with one of those head-scratchers in a 28-14 loss to Washington that made the Redskins look much better than advertised. After a predictable 28-16 romp over St. Louis, the G-Men put it to our Eagles with a strong second-half in a 29-16 win. Last week against Seattle, New York and Eli Manning were up to old tricks with a couple of untimely turnovers that resulted in a 36-25 loss to a team it should have beaten.
This week the Giants take-on the upstart Buffalo Bills, who are 4-1 and fresh off a 31-24 beatdown of our beloved Birds last Sunday. This is another game that New York should win as the Bills are ripe for a letdown especially on the road. Whether or not the Dr. Jekyll version of this Jekyll and Hyde team shows up remains to be seen.
Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Buffalo Bills vs. New York Giants
They opened the season with one of those head-scratchers in a 28-14 loss to Washington that made the Redskins look much better than advertised. After a predictable 28-16 romp over St. Louis, the G-Men put it to our Eagles with a strong second-half in a 29-16 win. Last week against Seattle, New York and Eli Manning were up to old tricks with a couple of untimely turnovers that resulted in a 36-25 loss to a team it should have beaten.
This week the Giants take-on the upstart Buffalo Bills, who are 4-1 and fresh off a 31-24 beatdown of our beloved Birds last Sunday. This is another game that New York should win as the Bills are ripe for a letdown especially on the road. Whether or not the Dr. Jekyll version of this Jekyll and Hyde team shows up remains to be seen.
Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Buffalo Bills vs. New York Giants
Friday, October 7, 2011
Eagles vs. Bills Game Preview & Predictions
The 2011 NFL regular season is only four weeks old and we are already resorting to clichés for this Sunday's game such as 'now or never' and 'do or die' for an Eagles team that has played woefully below its expectations in its last three games.
Last week's collapse against San Francisco was especially disturbing given Andy Reid’s past ability to have his team ready to play after a bad loss, which just so happened to be the 29-16 loss to the Giants the week before after blowing a 10-point lead in a 34-31 loss to Atlanta in Week 2. The last time the Eagles lost three games in-a-row was in 2007, when they ended the season 8-8 and out of the playoffs. They are clearly headed in the same direction unless something dramatic happens this Sunday in Buffalo. Even if they find a way to snap this losing streak, the Birds have a long way to go before working their back up the ladder as one of the elite teams in the league.
I will be the first to admit that I was one of the first in line to drink the cool-aid when the team went on an offseason spending-spree in an attempt to add the missing pieces for a Super Bowl run. The unfortunate reality is that all the high-priced talent in the world will not make all the underlying problems with this team go away.
The offense is still on solid footing despite the fact that the line has been basically been rebuilt from scratch. It needs to eliminate the mistakes and turnovers that have worked against it so far, but, as a whole, this unit has played well enough to be ranked fourth overall in the NFL and 10th in scoring.
The defense is a whole other story. The ‘Juan Castillo experiment’ has gone horribly wrong so far, as you have to really question the former offensive line coach’s ability to be a coordinator on this side of the ball. I have said it numerous times before and will say it again, this defense has not been the same since the death of former coordinator Jim Johnson and the departure via free agency of safety Brian Dawkins. Nobody can do anything about the tragic loss of Johnson, but last time I checked, Dawkins is still playing in the league.
What Reid failed to take into consideration when letting the future Hall of Fame safety walk away after the 2008 season is that attitude is often way more important than ability. Since Dawkins departure, nobody on this team has stepped up to supply the necessary intensity he provided on a weekly basis. This year’s squad, on paper, may be the most talented one assembled in recent memory, but right now they are also the softest one that I have ever witnessed in all my years of following the Birds.
Everyone loves watching Michael Vick run around and make big plays, but if this team is going to have any chance to turn things around, it is going to have to learn how to keep punching a team in the mouth once it has them down.
Below is a link to my complete preview and prediction forSunday’s game as originally posted on Cappers Picks.
Philadelphia Eagles at Buffalo Bills
Last week's collapse against San Francisco was especially disturbing given Andy Reid’s past ability to have his team ready to play after a bad loss, which just so happened to be the 29-16 loss to the Giants the week before after blowing a 10-point lead in a 34-31 loss to Atlanta in Week 2. The last time the Eagles lost three games in-a-row was in 2007, when they ended the season 8-8 and out of the playoffs. They are clearly headed in the same direction unless something dramatic happens this Sunday in Buffalo. Even if they find a way to snap this losing streak, the Birds have a long way to go before working their back up the ladder as one of the elite teams in the league.
I will be the first to admit that I was one of the first in line to drink the cool-aid when the team went on an offseason spending-spree in an attempt to add the missing pieces for a Super Bowl run. The unfortunate reality is that all the high-priced talent in the world will not make all the underlying problems with this team go away.
The offense is still on solid footing despite the fact that the line has been basically been rebuilt from scratch. It needs to eliminate the mistakes and turnovers that have worked against it so far, but, as a whole, this unit has played well enough to be ranked fourth overall in the NFL and 10th in scoring.
The defense is a whole other story. The ‘Juan Castillo experiment’ has gone horribly wrong so far, as you have to really question the former offensive line coach’s ability to be a coordinator on this side of the ball. I have said it numerous times before and will say it again, this defense has not been the same since the death of former coordinator Jim Johnson and the departure via free agency of safety Brian Dawkins. Nobody can do anything about the tragic loss of Johnson, but last time I checked, Dawkins is still playing in the league.
What Reid failed to take into consideration when letting the future Hall of Fame safety walk away after the 2008 season is that attitude is often way more important than ability. Since Dawkins departure, nobody on this team has stepped up to supply the necessary intensity he provided on a weekly basis. This year’s squad, on paper, may be the most talented one assembled in recent memory, but right now they are also the softest one that I have ever witnessed in all my years of following the Birds.
Everyone loves watching Michael Vick run around and make big plays, but if this team is going to have any chance to turn things around, it is going to have to learn how to keep punching a team in the mouth once it has them down.
Below is a link to my complete preview and prediction forSunday’s game as originally posted on Cappers Picks.
Philadelphia Eagles at Buffalo Bills
Friday, September 30, 2011
NFC East Week 4- San Francisco vs. Philadelphia
I have been way off the mark on my picks for the Eagles the first three weeks, but in my defense, they have been way off the mark on defense. The two losses have nothing to do with Michael Vick getting hurt, as last time I checked, he does not play on that side of the ball.
While I will admit there have been some questionable calls by Andy Reid, especially the fourth-down call to go for it on short yardage at mid-field against the Giants, but you have to have some kind of confidence that your defense can stop the opposition with the game on the line.
It is still early, but a loss on Sunday would dig a hole that Birds probably would not be able to climb out of unless the rest of the teams in the NFC East go into the tank. For that reason alone, I see the Eagles rolling in this game, as under Reid, they have always shown the ability to bounce back from a bad loss.
Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Week 4- San Francisco vs. Philadelphia
While I will admit there have been some questionable calls by Andy Reid, especially the fourth-down call to go for it on short yardage at mid-field against the Giants, but you have to have some kind of confidence that your defense can stop the opposition with the game on the line.
It is still early, but a loss on Sunday would dig a hole that Birds probably would not be able to climb out of unless the rest of the teams in the NFC East go into the tank. For that reason alone, I see the Eagles rolling in this game, as under Reid, they have always shown the ability to bounce back from a bad loss.
Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Week 4- San Francisco vs. Philadelphia
NFC East Week 4- Detroit vs. Dallas
The undefeated Detroit Lions put their perfect record on the line against a banged-up Cowboys team that is coming off a couple of scrappy wins. It appears that the Lions are for real after spending the last few seasons stock-piling talent through low picks in the draft, but this will be their first real test of the season on the road.
Dallas is already an early-season MASH unit with Miles Austin out of the lineup and Tony Romo, Dez Bryant, and Felix Jones all nursing injuries. This has the Boys as just one-point home favorites in a game that they desperately need to win. Dallas is actually is one of my 'best bets' for the week no matter how much it pains me to pick this team.
Below is a link to my complete preview of this game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Week 4- Detroit vs. Dallas
Dallas is already an early-season MASH unit with Miles Austin out of the lineup and Tony Romo, Dez Bryant, and Felix Jones all nursing injuries. This has the Boys as just one-point home favorites in a game that they desperately need to win. Dallas is actually is one of my 'best bets' for the week no matter how much it pains me to pick this team.
Below is a link to my complete preview of this game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
NFC East Week 4- Detroit vs. Dallas
NFC East Week 4- Giants vs Cardinals
New York comes into this game with a ton of momentum after a huge 29-16 road victory over the Eagles last week, but do not be surprised if the Giants lose this game outright as one-point road favorites.
Consistency has been an issue in the past with this team, and it is a rare occurrence for Eli Manning to go two straight games without turning the ball over. Of course this may be just wishful thinking as I do not have all that much faith in Arizona, but maybe Kevin Kolb will do his old team a favor with a big day on Sunday.
Below is a link to my complete preview of this game as originally posted on SportsBook Lists
NFC East Week 4- Giants vs Cardinals
Consistency has been an issue in the past with this team, and it is a rare occurrence for Eli Manning to go two straight games without turning the ball over. Of course this may be just wishful thinking as I do not have all that much faith in Arizona, but maybe Kevin Kolb will do his old team a favor with a big day on Sunday.
Below is a link to my complete preview of this game as originally posted on SportsBook Lists
NFC East Week 4- Giants vs Cardinals
Sunday, September 25, 2011
NFC East Game Previews- Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys
This Monday night's matchup pits the 2-0 Redskins verse the 1-1 Cowboys in a battle for first place in the NFC East. The Giants victory over the Eagles earlier today moves them to 2-1 on the year, so a Dallas win would create an early three-way log jam atop the division. A Washington win would not only keep it undefeated on the year, but raise its record in the East to 2-0 after already beating New York 28-14 on opening day.
Below is a link to my complete preview of this game as originally posted on Cappers Picks.
NFC East Game Previews- Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys
Below is a link to my complete preview of this game as originally posted on Cappers Picks.
NFC East Game Previews- Washington Redskins at Dallas Cowboys
Friday, September 23, 2011
NFC East Week 3- New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles will look to bounce back from last week's fourth quarter collapse in a 35-31 loss to Atlanta when they welcome the New York Giants to the Linc this Sunday afternoon in their home opener.
This could be the perfect team at the perfect time, given that Philly has beaten their division rival six straight times. A few of those victories were gift-wrapped and delivered on a silver platter due to some Giant mistakes, but as they always say 'a win is a win' in this league.
The big story surrounding this game has been the health of Michael Vick, who was knocked out of last Sunday night's game after receiving a concussion on a collision with one of his own players. The doctors have cleared him to play, so barring any unforeseen setback, you can expect Vick to be in the starting lineup come Sunday.
While it is only the third game of the season, this is actually a crucial game for both teams. Past trends have shown that teams starting 2-1 have a significant edge in making the playoffs as opposed to ones that start 1-2. While one game may appear to be a subtle difference, in a 16-game schedule this actually equates to a huge gap, especially when it comes to a team's record within its division. The Giants have already lost to Washington, so a 0-2 hole in the NFC East could be hard to climb out of.
This game is shaping up as another classic Giants-Eagles battle that will most likely go down to the bitter end. The two keys to a Philadelphia victory this Sunday will be its ability to first, stop or at least slow down Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs in the running game, and two, force Eli Manning to make some bad decisions throwing or even running the ball. He has already turned the ball over twice this season after throwing 25 interceptions and losing five fumbles last year. If the Birds' front four can keep constant pressure on Manning, he is bound to cough the ball up somewhere along the line.
Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Bang the Book.
NFC East Week 3- New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles
This could be the perfect team at the perfect time, given that Philly has beaten their division rival six straight times. A few of those victories were gift-wrapped and delivered on a silver platter due to some Giant mistakes, but as they always say 'a win is a win' in this league.
The big story surrounding this game has been the health of Michael Vick, who was knocked out of last Sunday night's game after receiving a concussion on a collision with one of his own players. The doctors have cleared him to play, so barring any unforeseen setback, you can expect Vick to be in the starting lineup come Sunday.
While it is only the third game of the season, this is actually a crucial game for both teams. Past trends have shown that teams starting 2-1 have a significant edge in making the playoffs as opposed to ones that start 1-2. While one game may appear to be a subtle difference, in a 16-game schedule this actually equates to a huge gap, especially when it comes to a team's record within its division. The Giants have already lost to Washington, so a 0-2 hole in the NFC East could be hard to climb out of.
This game is shaping up as another classic Giants-Eagles battle that will most likely go down to the bitter end. The two keys to a Philadelphia victory this Sunday will be its ability to first, stop or at least slow down Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs in the running game, and two, force Eli Manning to make some bad decisions throwing or even running the ball. He has already turned the ball over twice this season after throwing 25 interceptions and losing five fumbles last year. If the Birds' front four can keep constant pressure on Manning, he is bound to cough the ball up somewhere along the line.
Below is a link to my complete preview of Sunday's game as originally posted on Bang the Book.
NFC East Week 3- New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles
Friday, September 16, 2011
NFC East Football Previews- Philadelphia Eagles at Atlanta Falcons
If I had to grade last week's performance, the Eagles would get a B-. They won the game with relative ease, but the offensive line remains a serious concern as Michael Vick took way too many hits against a team that is not known as a quarterback-killer. The linebacking corps is another area that needs improvement as Philly could have ended-up losing this game if Steven Jackson does not get hurt.
Atlanta comes in with a solid running game led by Michael Turner and a capable quarterback in Matt Ryan. You would have to believe that this offense will do a much better job this week after being held to just two field goals against Chicago in a 30-12 opening day loss.
Of course, the big tagline in this game is Vick's return to the Georgia Dome as a starter for the first time since his playing days with the Falcons. He was pretty much a non-factor in a 2009 visit as a back-up, but with a national audience tuning in on Sunday Night Football, I fully expect him to light things up with another memorable prime time performance.
Below is my complete preview of this game as originally posted on SportsBook Lists
Philadelphia Eagles at Atlanta Falcons
Atlanta comes in with a solid running game led by Michael Turner and a capable quarterback in Matt Ryan. You would have to believe that this offense will do a much better job this week after being held to just two field goals against Chicago in a 30-12 opening day loss.
Of course, the big tagline in this game is Vick's return to the Georgia Dome as a starter for the first time since his playing days with the Falcons. He was pretty much a non-factor in a 2009 visit as a back-up, but with a national audience tuning in on Sunday Night Football, I fully expect him to light things up with another memorable prime time performance.
Below is my complete preview of this game as originally posted on SportsBook Lists
Philadelphia Eagles at Atlanta Falcons
NFC East Football Previews- St. Louis Rams vs New York Giants
The Giants come into this game licking their wounds after a demoralizing 28-14 loss to Washington in their opener. Once again, New York shot itself in the foot one too many times and suffered the consequences with a loss in a game it should have won.
The Rams come into this game with some actual wounds after losing a couple of key players in last week's loss to the Eagles. Running back Steven Jackson could be ready to go by Monday night, but if he is sidelined for this game, it would be a huge loss for St. Louis.
Below is a link to my complete preview of this game as originally posted on SportsBook Lists
St. Louis Rams vs New York Giants
The Rams come into this game with some actual wounds after losing a couple of key players in last week's loss to the Eagles. Running back Steven Jackson could be ready to go by Monday night, but if he is sidelined for this game, it would be a huge loss for St. Louis.
Below is a link to my complete preview of this game as originally posted on SportsBook Lists
St. Louis Rams vs New York Giants
NFC Football Previews – Arizona vs Washington
The Redskins come into this game flying high after a huge 28-14 upset of the Giants in their home opener. Rex Grossman turned in a workman-like performance with 305 yards passing and two touchdown throws, but Washington capitalized more on New York mistakes rather than winning this game on its own merit.
Former Eagle QB Kevin Kolb will be making his second start for the Cardinals. Last week he threw for 309 yards and two TD's as Arizona outlasted Carolina 28-21 to start the season on a winning note.
Below is my complete preview of this game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Arizona Cardinals at Washington Redskins
Former Eagle QB Kevin Kolb will be making his second start for the Cardinals. Last week he threw for 309 yards and two TD's as Arizona outlasted Carolina 28-21 to start the season on a winning note.
Below is my complete preview of this game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Arizona Cardinals at Washington Redskins
NFC East Football Previews – Dallas vs San Francisco
This game is already a must-win for the Cowboys after they snatched defeat from the jaws of victory in a disheartening 27-24 loss to the New York Jets last Sunday night. A solid performance by Tony Romo became completely unraveled on a pair of costly turnovers, so it will be interesting to see how he responds this week against San Francisco.
Below is a link to my complete review of this game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Dallas Cowboys at San Francisco 49ers
Below is a link to my complete review of this game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Dallas Cowboys at San Francisco 49ers
Saturday, September 10, 2011
NFC East Week 1- Eagles-Rams
The Eagles head to St. Louis to take on the Rams in what should be a cake walk in their season opener. Unfortunately, this one will not as easy as you might think. Philly will have its hands full come Sunday afternoon as St. Louis is a much better team than the one that won a total of six games from 2007 to 2009.
Last season the Rams finished 7-9 and this year they will make a serious run at the NFC West division title. They are led by an up and coming quarterback named Sam Bradford and while his overall numbers last season were by no means overwhelming, he knows how to manage the game and is beginning to learn how to win.
Have no fear, the Birds will be victorious in this game, but it will be a close, hard-fought battle deep into the fourth quarter before we can chalk this one up in the win column.
Below is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Eagles vs. Rams
Last season the Rams finished 7-9 and this year they will make a serious run at the NFC West division title. They are led by an up and coming quarterback named Sam Bradford and while his overall numbers last season were by no means overwhelming, he knows how to manage the game and is beginning to learn how to win.
Have no fear, the Birds will be victorious in this game, but it will be a close, hard-fought battle deep into the fourth quarter before we can chalk this one up in the win column.
Below is a link to my complete preview and prediction for Sunday's game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Eagles vs. Rams
NFC East Week 1- Cowboys-Jets
Dallas will be looking to erase the memory of last season's 6-10 debacle with a big win against the Jets in its 2011 season opener this upcoming Sunday night.
Below is a link to my complete preview of this game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Dallas vs. New York (Jets)
Below is a link to my complete preview of this game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Dallas vs. New York (Jets)
NFC East Week 1- Giants-Redskins
The NFL regular season kicked off with a bang this past Thursday night with the Packers beating the Saints 42-37 in what is sure to be an instant classic. The battle for this year's NFC East title gets underway this Sunday afternoon and to keep you in the loop in this season's race, I will be posting a preview of every game in the division this season.
Below is a link to the New York vs. Washington game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Giants vs. Redskins
Below is a link to the New York vs. Washington game as originally posted on Cappers Picks
Giants vs. Redskins
Saturday, September 3, 2011
2011 Philadelphia Eagles Schedule: Game by Game Predictions
The Philadelphia Eagles kick-off their 2011 regular season next Sunday against the St. Louis Rams so it is that time of year when I release my official picks for all 16 games.
In case you forgot, last season I predicted a 10-6 finish and low and behold, the Birds finished 10-6, so if I were you, I would pay very close attention to the following if you want to know in advance how they will do this season. As an added bonus for anyone who likes to place a friendly wager on the games, this season I am providing the final score so you know how they will do against the spread as well.
Philadelphia Eagles 2011 Schedule
Week 1 – September 11, 2011 – at St Louis (1:00 PM) 24-17 W
Week 2 – September 18, 2011 – at Atlanta (8:20 PM) 30-13 W
Week 3 – September 25, 2011 – vs New York Giants (1:00 PM) 34-31 W
Week 4 – October 2, 2011 – vs San Francisco (1:00 PM) 27-10 W
Week 5 – October 9, 2011 – at Buffalo (1:00 PM) 20-13 W
Week 6 – October 16,2011 – at Washington (1:00 PM) 24-21 L
Week 7 – BYE
Week 8 – October 30, 2011 – vs Dallas (8:20 PM) 34-28 W
Week 9 – November 7, 2011 – vs Chicago (8:20 PM) 17-16 W
Week 10 – November 13, 2011 – vs Arizona (1:00 PM) 33-13 W
Week 11 – November 20, 2011 – at New York Giants (8:20 PM) 28-27 L
Week 12 – November 27, 2011 – vs New England (4:15 PM) 33-30 W
Week 13 – December 1, 2011 – at Seattle (8:20 PM) 17-10 L
Week 14 – December 11, 2011 – at Miami (1:00 PM) 38-13 W
Week 15 – December 18, 2011 – vs New York Jets (4:15 PM) 24-23 L
Week 16 – December 24, 2011 – at Dallas (4:15 PM) 24-23 W
Week 17 – January 1, 2012 – vs Washington (1:00 PM) 28-10 W
The final tally for the season is a record of 12-4
I will update this post as the season progresses to track how my fearless prognastications have held up.
In case you forgot, last season I predicted a 10-6 finish and low and behold, the Birds finished 10-6, so if I were you, I would pay very close attention to the following if you want to know in advance how they will do this season. As an added bonus for anyone who likes to place a friendly wager on the games, this season I am providing the final score so you know how they will do against the spread as well.
Philadelphia Eagles 2011 Schedule
Week 1 – September 11, 2011 – at St Louis (1:00 PM) 24-17 W
Week 2 – September 18, 2011 – at Atlanta (8:20 PM) 30-13 W
Week 3 – September 25, 2011 – vs New York Giants (1:00 PM) 34-31 W
Week 4 – October 2, 2011 – vs San Francisco (1:00 PM) 27-10 W
Week 5 – October 9, 2011 – at Buffalo (1:00 PM) 20-13 W
Week 6 – October 16,2011 – at Washington (1:00 PM) 24-21 L
Week 7 – BYE
Week 8 – October 30, 2011 – vs Dallas (8:20 PM) 34-28 W
Week 9 – November 7, 2011 – vs Chicago (8:20 PM) 17-16 W
Week 10 – November 13, 2011 – vs Arizona (1:00 PM) 33-13 W
Week 11 – November 20, 2011 – at New York Giants (8:20 PM) 28-27 L
Week 12 – November 27, 2011 – vs New England (4:15 PM) 33-30 W
Week 13 – December 1, 2011 – at Seattle (8:20 PM) 17-10 L
Week 14 – December 11, 2011 – at Miami (1:00 PM) 38-13 W
Week 15 – December 18, 2011 – vs New York Jets (4:15 PM) 24-23 L
Week 16 – December 24, 2011 – at Dallas (4:15 PM) 24-23 W
Week 17 – January 1, 2012 – vs Washington (1:00 PM) 28-10 W
The final tally for the season is a record of 12-4
I will update this post as the season progresses to track how my fearless prognastications have held up.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
NFC East Team Previews
I just recently completed a set of previews for all four teams in the NFC East for Cappers Picks so below are links for each team.
As anyone who reads this blog on a regular basis already knows, I have picked the Eagles to not only win the NFC East this season, but to go all the way to the Super Bowl where they will face the Baltimore Ravens. I am reserving my pick for the Super Bowl for a later date, but I am sure you can quess which way I am leaning.
Washington Redskins
Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants
Philadelphia Eagles
As anyone who reads this blog on a regular basis already knows, I have picked the Eagles to not only win the NFC East this season, but to go all the way to the Super Bowl where they will face the Baltimore Ravens. I am reserving my pick for the Super Bowl for a later date, but I am sure you can quess which way I am leaning.
Washington Redskins
Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants
Philadelphia Eagles
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Eagles Preseason Update
We have now had a chance to see the new-look Eagles on three separate occasions and the preseason so far can be summed up as a famous Clint Eastwood movie 'The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.
The good was definitely the Birds first outing against Baltimore. Michael Vick only played one series in that game, but looked extremely sharp. He completed 4-of-6 attempts for 74 yards including a three-yard touchdown pass to tight end Brett Celek.
The bad was the Eagles' offensive line's performance against Cleveland the other night. Vick was sacked twice and took far too many hits as there were multiple breakdowns across the entire front five. With a few new faces in the lineup, this unit is still getting use to playing with one another, but if they continue to allow Vick to take a beating like he did against the Browns, Vince Young or Mike Kafka will be your starter.
The ugly was the Eagles' entire performance against Pittsburgh. They looked completely flat from the start and buried themselves with penalties, turnovers, and bad mistakes. This game could actually end up being a huge benefit as it pointed out some areas that still need work and more importantly that all the talent in the world is worthless if these guys cannot learn to play as a team.
Philly wraps up the preseason this Thursday night against the New York Jets. The majority of the starters will probably not even play in this game as they prepare for the regular season opener against St. Louis. The game will provide one last opportunity for a few players to make their case for remaining on the team's final 46-man roster, so the movie theme for this game could be 'Staying Alive'.
The good was definitely the Birds first outing against Baltimore. Michael Vick only played one series in that game, but looked extremely sharp. He completed 4-of-6 attempts for 74 yards including a three-yard touchdown pass to tight end Brett Celek.
The bad was the Eagles' offensive line's performance against Cleveland the other night. Vick was sacked twice and took far too many hits as there were multiple breakdowns across the entire front five. With a few new faces in the lineup, this unit is still getting use to playing with one another, but if they continue to allow Vick to take a beating like he did against the Browns, Vince Young or Mike Kafka will be your starter.
The ugly was the Eagles' entire performance against Pittsburgh. They looked completely flat from the start and buried themselves with penalties, turnovers, and bad mistakes. This game could actually end up being a huge benefit as it pointed out some areas that still need work and more importantly that all the talent in the world is worthless if these guys cannot learn to play as a team.
Philly wraps up the preseason this Thursday night against the New York Jets. The majority of the starters will probably not even play in this game as they prepare for the regular season opener against St. Louis. The game will provide one last opportunity for a few players to make their case for remaining on the team's final 46-man roster, so the movie theme for this game could be 'Staying Alive'.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
2011 Philadelphia Eagles Predictions and Super Bowl Futures Odds
The Eagles take on the Pittsburgh Steelers tonight in what some people are saying could be a preview of this year's Super Bowl. I would say they are partially right, but Philadelphia will actually be playing the Steelers' nemesis, the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XLVI.
If anyone who reads this blog remembers, last season I had the Packers and the Ravens squaring-off in the title game, so I feel pretty good about going two-for-two on the NFC end. I also figure if I keep picking the Ravens every season, one of these times I will be right.
Below is a link to my full preview of this year's Birds as originally posted on Doc's Sports
2011 Philadelphia Eagles Predictions and Super Bowl Futures Odds
If anyone who reads this blog remembers, last season I had the Packers and the Ravens squaring-off in the title game, so I feel pretty good about going two-for-two on the NFC end. I also figure if I keep picking the Ravens every season, one of these times I will be right.
Below is a link to my full preview of this year's Birds as originally posted on Doc's Sports
2011 Philadelphia Eagles Predictions and Super Bowl Futures Odds
Friday, August 12, 2011
News & Notes from the NFL-Aug. 11
The Eagles took the field last night against Baltimore in their first test of the season and as far as I am concerned they passed with flying colors. Michael Vick looked sharp in limited action and the defense played with a sense of urgency that was not present on a consistent basis last season.
Even though this was more of a quiz than a full-blown test, I guess I am going to have to resign myself to the fact that a trip to Indianapolis in the middle of winter is definitely in my future.
For all the news and notes from the NFL this week, check out my article on Bang the Book at the link below.
News & Notes from the NFL Aug.12
Even though this was more of a quiz than a full-blown test, I guess I am going to have to resign myself to the fact that a trip to Indianapolis in the middle of winter is definitely in my future.
For all the news and notes from the NFL this week, check out my article on Bang the Book at the link below.
News & Notes from the NFL Aug.12
Sunday, August 7, 2011
News and Notes from the NFL – August 7
The good news out of Eagles' camp is that WR DeSean Jackson is expected to finally report to training camp at Lehigh on Monday after staging an 11-day holdout in an effort to get a new contract. Arguably the most dynamic player on Philadelphia's roster, Jackson is in the final year of a rookie contract that whould pay him just under $600,000 this season, which is far below his actual value. The Eagles refused to address the issue as long as Jackson was absent from training camp, so hopefully his return on Monday will lead to a fair resolution to the whole situation.
I normally have a hard time with players who are under contract holding out for more money, but in this case I think that Jackson does deserve a new long-term contract that keeps him in an Eagles' uniform for a number of seasons to come.
Below is a link to all the news and notes from the NFL this week as originally posted on Bang the Book
News and Notes from the NFL – August 7
I normally have a hard time with players who are under contract holding out for more money, but in this case I think that Jackson does deserve a new long-term contract that keeps him in an Eagles' uniform for a number of seasons to come.
Below is a link to all the news and notes from the NFL this week as originally posted on Bang the Book
News and Notes from the NFL – August 7
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
2011 NFC Win Total Previews & Picks
Every season the sportsbooks release odds on the projected wins for each team in the NFL. With a few exceptions, these numbers tend to be an extremely accurate prediction of how each team will do this season. The Eagles projected win total is currently listed at 10, which seems like a gift considering their recent free agency spending spree.
The following is a look at all 16 teams in the NFC as originally posted on Bang the Book. The link to the article is listed below.
2011 NFC Win Total Previews & Picks
The following is a look at all 16 teams in the NFC as originally posted on Bang the Book. The link to the article is listed below.
2011 NFC Win Total Previews & Picks
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Asomugha is an Eagle!
In a wild week of wheeling and dealing, the Eagles saved their best move for last by coming up with enough cash to lane the prized jewel in this year’s free-agent frenzy, All-Pro cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha. Philadelphia came to terms with Asomugha in a deal that is worth a reportedly $60 million over five years.
This move effectively fills any existing holes in a secondary that now boasts a trio of Pro Bowl corners in Asante Samuel, newly acquired Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie via the Kevin Kolb trade, and now Asomugha. If this does not improve a defense that was ranked 15th against the pass and 21st in points allowed nothing will.
It is now the Super Bowl or bust for this team as these moves have rapidly closed the gap between the Birds and the favored Green Bay Packers. For anyone who follows this blog on a regular basis, they would know that I had already picked the Eagles to win the NFC well before any of these recent moves. The events of the past few days just answered my question as to which team will win Super Bowl XLVI between Philadelphia and Baltimore.
This move effectively fills any existing holes in a secondary that now boasts a trio of Pro Bowl corners in Asante Samuel, newly acquired Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie via the Kevin Kolb trade, and now Asomugha. If this does not improve a defense that was ranked 15th against the pass and 21st in points allowed nothing will.
It is now the Super Bowl or bust for this team as these moves have rapidly closed the gap between the Birds and the favored Green Bay Packers. For anyone who follows this blog on a regular basis, they would know that I had already picked the Eagles to win the NFC well before any of these recent moves. The events of the past few days just answered my question as to which team will win Super Bowl XLVI between Philadelphia and Baltimore.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Eagles Update-July 29
Are you ready for some football? The Eagles better be as the competition gets geared up for the 2011 season in one of the craziest weeks for player movement in the history of the NFL.
Former Philly QB Donovan McNabb found a new home in Minnesota and Arizona finally pulled the trigger for Kevin Kolb in a trade that brings a much needed cornerback to the defense. The Cardinals will now get a chance to find out if Kolb really is the 'real deal' as their new starter, while our birds will find out if Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie can return to the form that helped lead his old team to the Super Bowl in 2008. As a bonus, the Eagles will also get a second round pick in next year's draft.
The Eagles jumped at a chance to bring back DE Jason Babin, who was with the team up until 2009 before signing with Tennessee as a free agent. Babin had a breakout season with the Titans in 2010 with 12.5 sacks, earning a trip to the Pro Bowl. He was more than happy to be reunited with Philly's new defensive line coach Jim Washburn, with whom Babin credits for his success last year.
They also reportedly have agreed to terms with QB Vince Young, who was recently released by Tennessee. Young will act as an insurance policy for Michael Vick given the fact that Vick has only made it through all 16 regular season games once in his eight-year career.
The only cloud in the sky of an otherwise sunny few days in Philadelphia is WR DeSean Jackson's noticeable absence from the practice fields at Lehigh for the opening of training camp yesterday. Jackson is in the final year of a four-year contract that will pay him an estimated $565,000 this season, which is far below his actual value. The Eagles are no stranger to issues with wide receivers, but this time Jackson may have a point.
The good news is that he is looking for a longterm deal that will keep an Eagle for years to come. The bad news is that Philly's front office has a way of screwing up situations like this and the last thing anyone needs is an extended holdout that runs into the regular season. Maybe in the spirit of the new CBA (collective bargaining agreement) the Eagles' brass will do the right thing and pay the man.
Former Philly QB Donovan McNabb found a new home in Minnesota and Arizona finally pulled the trigger for Kevin Kolb in a trade that brings a much needed cornerback to the defense. The Cardinals will now get a chance to find out if Kolb really is the 'real deal' as their new starter, while our birds will find out if Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie can return to the form that helped lead his old team to the Super Bowl in 2008. As a bonus, the Eagles will also get a second round pick in next year's draft.
The Eagles jumped at a chance to bring back DE Jason Babin, who was with the team up until 2009 before signing with Tennessee as a free agent. Babin had a breakout season with the Titans in 2010 with 12.5 sacks, earning a trip to the Pro Bowl. He was more than happy to be reunited with Philly's new defensive line coach Jim Washburn, with whom Babin credits for his success last year.
They also reportedly have agreed to terms with QB Vince Young, who was recently released by Tennessee. Young will act as an insurance policy for Michael Vick given the fact that Vick has only made it through all 16 regular season games once in his eight-year career.
The only cloud in the sky of an otherwise sunny few days in Philadelphia is WR DeSean Jackson's noticeable absence from the practice fields at Lehigh for the opening of training camp yesterday. Jackson is in the final year of a four-year contract that will pay him an estimated $565,000 this season, which is far below his actual value. The Eagles are no stranger to issues with wide receivers, but this time Jackson may have a point.
The good news is that he is looking for a longterm deal that will keep an Eagle for years to come. The bad news is that Philly's front office has a way of screwing up situations like this and the last thing anyone needs is an extended holdout that runs into the regular season. Maybe in the spirit of the new CBA (collective bargaining agreement) the Eagles' brass will do the right thing and pay the man.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
News & Notes from the NFL-July 24
With the labor unrest in the league finally headed towards a resolution, one of the first things that teams will have to contend with once the NFL reopens for business is the whole issue of free agency and the salary cap.
The next few weeks are shaping up as one of the most craziest periods in the history of the NFL as hundreds of free agents will be searching for a new place to play this season in a feeding frenzy of player signings. Some of these deals could be make or break in terms of deciding a team's fortunes this year as all 32 teams try and plug some of the existing holes in their lineup.
The following is a link to this week's News & Notes in the NFL that takes a closer look at the whole situation. This article was originally posted on Bang the Book.
News and Notes from the NFL – July 24
The next few weeks are shaping up as one of the most craziest periods in the history of the NFL as hundreds of free agents will be searching for a new place to play this season in a feeding frenzy of player signings. Some of these deals could be make or break in terms of deciding a team's fortunes this year as all 32 teams try and plug some of the existing holes in their lineup.
The following is a link to this week's News & Notes in the NFL that takes a closer look at the whole situation. This article was originally posted on Bang the Book.
News and Notes from the NFL – July 24
Thursday, July 21, 2011
NFL 2011 'Games of the Year'
Well it looks like we are going to have a football season after all now that the owners and players have basically agreed upon a plan to carve up the $9 billion they were fighting over.
Now that we do not have to watch videos of Roger Goodell and DeMaurice Smith posturing for the camera, we can turn our attention to the upcoming regular season and the actual games themselves.
I recently took a stroll through the entire 17-week season and while there are some great matchups every week, I zeroed-in on the five key divisional showdowns that should have the biggest impact on the playoff picture.
The following is a link to my complete article as originally posted on Doc's Sports
NFL Odds Released for Top Games of the Year
Now that we do not have to watch videos of Roger Goodell and DeMaurice Smith posturing for the camera, we can turn our attention to the upcoming regular season and the actual games themselves.
I recently took a stroll through the entire 17-week season and while there are some great matchups every week, I zeroed-in on the five key divisional showdowns that should have the biggest impact on the playoff picture.
The following is a link to my complete article as originally posted on Doc's Sports
NFL Odds Released for Top Games of the Year
Friday, July 15, 2011
AFC 2011 Team by Team Analysis
It looks like the NFL owners and the league's Players Association is finally making some real progress in hammering out a new CBA (collective bargaining agreement)so everyone can finally get back to work and start preparing for the 2011 season.
According to the odds makers the battle to win the AFC will be a two-team race between New England and Pittsburgh. The reality is this race remains pretty wide open as there are a handful of teams that have a legitimate shot at getting to the Super Bowl and a few more that have the potential to challenge for the conference title if a couple of the right pieces fall into place.
When considering the posted odds, one of the main things to take into consideration is public perception. The betting public has a huge influence on the odds in the sense that they tend to lean towards past favorites without taking into consideration all the current factors affecting these teams. This in turn will drive the odds down lower than they really should be, thus sapping out most of the value.
The following is a link to a brief look at the conference odds for all 16 teams in the AFC as originally posted on Cappers Picks.
2011 AFC Conference Future Lines – Team by Team Analysis
According to the odds makers the battle to win the AFC will be a two-team race between New England and Pittsburgh. The reality is this race remains pretty wide open as there are a handful of teams that have a legitimate shot at getting to the Super Bowl and a few more that have the potential to challenge for the conference title if a couple of the right pieces fall into place.
When considering the posted odds, one of the main things to take into consideration is public perception. The betting public has a huge influence on the odds in the sense that they tend to lean towards past favorites without taking into consideration all the current factors affecting these teams. This in turn will drive the odds down lower than they really should be, thus sapping out most of the value.
The following is a link to a brief look at the conference odds for all 16 teams in the AFC as originally posted on Cappers Picks.
2011 AFC Conference Future Lines – Team by Team Analysis
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
NFC 2011 Team by Team Analysis
While we are still waiting for the NFL owners and Players Association to iron out a new CBA (collective bargaining agreement)it is not to early to take a quick glance at each team in the NFC to assess their chances to win the conference this season.
Of course I am partial to the Eagles' chances heading into the 2011 season as I predict a rematch with the Packers in the playoffs, but this time it will be for a trip to Super Bowl XLVI.
Below is a link to an article that was originally posted on Cappers Picks with the currents odds to win the NFC for all 16 teams
NFC Conference 2011 Team by Team Analysis
Of course I am partial to the Eagles' chances heading into the 2011 season as I predict a rematch with the Packers in the playoffs, but this time it will be for a trip to Super Bowl XLVI.
Below is a link to an article that was originally posted on Cappers Picks with the currents odds to win the NFC for all 16 teams
NFC Conference 2011 Team by Team Analysis
Saturday, July 2, 2011
News and Notes from the NFL – July 1st
Here is a link to this week's news and notes from the NFL as originally posted on Bang the Book.
News and Notes from the NFL – July 1st
News and Notes from the NFL – July 1st
Monday, June 27, 2011
2011 AFC Preview – Conference Odds and Predictions
Its time to take a look at the AFC to see which teams have the best chance to make it all the way to Super Bowl XLVI by winning the conference this season.
Here is a link to the actual article as originally posted on Cappers Picks
2011 AFC Preview – Conference Odds and Predictions
Here is a link to the actual article as originally posted on Cappers Picks
2011 AFC Preview – Conference Odds and Predictions
Thursday, June 16, 2011
NFC Future Odds | 2011 NFC Picks
With some cautious optimism that the NFL owners and players will be able to resolve their differences in time to save the 2011 regular season, I took a look at the current odds to win the NFC to try and determine which team will represent the conference in Super Bowl XLVI, scheduled for early February of next year.
While most people will simply call me a homer, I honestly believe that it is the Eagles' turn to get back to the title game. The following is a link to my entire preview as originally posted on Cappers Picks which explains my rational for making this call.
NFC Future Odds | 2011 NFC Picks
While most people will simply call me a homer, I honestly believe that it is the Eagles' turn to get back to the title game. The following is a link to my entire preview as originally posted on Cappers Picks which explains my rational for making this call.
NFC Future Odds | 2011 NFC Picks
Friday, June 10, 2011
NFL's Top 100 Players of 2011
The NFL Network is more than halfway through revealing their list of 'The Top 100 NFL players of 2011' as part of a 10-part series that covers 10 players at a time.
Starting from No.100, the first Eagle on the list at No.73 is DE Trent Cole. He has been with the Birds his entire six-year career after getting drafted in 2005 in the fifth round out of Cincinnati. Cole has 57 career sacks including a team-high 12 1/2 in 2009 and 10 last season. These numbers are especially impressive given the fact that he is Philadelphia's only legitimate pass rusher on the defensive line.
The only other Eagle in the first 60 players chosen is CB Asante Samuel; coming in at No. 54 on the list. He is an eight-year veteran who began his career in New England in 2003. Samuel came to the Eagles in 2008 as an unrestricted free-agent and immediately helped to improve a defensive secondary that was lacking a true playmaker at the cornerback position. The rap on Samuel over the years has been his inability to effectively play the run, but his 42 career interceptions with five returned for touchdowns help justify the lofty ranking.
Stay tuned to see what other Eagles might have made the list as the next 10 names are released.
Starting from No.100, the first Eagle on the list at No.73 is DE Trent Cole. He has been with the Birds his entire six-year career after getting drafted in 2005 in the fifth round out of Cincinnati. Cole has 57 career sacks including a team-high 12 1/2 in 2009 and 10 last season. These numbers are especially impressive given the fact that he is Philadelphia's only legitimate pass rusher on the defensive line.
The only other Eagle in the first 60 players chosen is CB Asante Samuel; coming in at No. 54 on the list. He is an eight-year veteran who began his career in New England in 2003. Samuel came to the Eagles in 2008 as an unrestricted free-agent and immediately helped to improve a defensive secondary that was lacking a true playmaker at the cornerback position. The rap on Samuel over the years has been his inability to effectively play the run, but his 42 career interceptions with five returned for touchdowns help justify the lofty ranking.
Stay tuned to see what other Eagles might have made the list as the next 10 names are released.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Plaxico Burress an Eagle?
There is very little going on in the NFL lately with the ongoing labor situation so the only things making news are all the rumors surrounding where some prominent veteran free-agents may end up once this whole mess is finally resolved.
One rumor circulating this week is that former New York Giant wide receiver Plaxico Burress has expressed an interest in playing for the Eagles once he is released from prison and presumably reinstated into the NFL. Burress is scheduled to be released this Monday after serving close to two years for a gun possession charge stemming from an incident at a New York nightclub in November of 2008.
This rumor may actually have some traction given the fact how Philadelphia was willing to take a chance on Michael Vick, after his stint in prison on dog fighting charges. The other connection is that both players are from the Hampton Roads area of Virginia and have struck up a friendship over the years. Vick has already publically stated that he believes Burress would be a good addition to the team.
The big question that remains is are the Eagles interested in him? Nothing has been or can be addressed given the current player lockout, but you have to believe that the prospect of adding Burress to a receiving corps that already has DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, and Brent Celek would have any head coach licking his chops.
Burress certainly brings a ton of baggage along with him and the memory of the whole T.O. mess still lingers, but do not be surprised if Andy Reid decides to open his halfway house one more time for a fallen star.
One rumor circulating this week is that former New York Giant wide receiver Plaxico Burress has expressed an interest in playing for the Eagles once he is released from prison and presumably reinstated into the NFL. Burress is scheduled to be released this Monday after serving close to two years for a gun possession charge stemming from an incident at a New York nightclub in November of 2008.
This rumor may actually have some traction given the fact how Philadelphia was willing to take a chance on Michael Vick, after his stint in prison on dog fighting charges. The other connection is that both players are from the Hampton Roads area of Virginia and have struck up a friendship over the years. Vick has already publically stated that he believes Burress would be a good addition to the team.
The big question that remains is are the Eagles interested in him? Nothing has been or can be addressed given the current player lockout, but you have to believe that the prospect of adding Burress to a receiving corps that already has DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, and Brent Celek would have any head coach licking his chops.
Burress certainly brings a ton of baggage along with him and the memory of the whole T.O. mess still lingers, but do not be surprised if Andy Reid decides to open his halfway house one more time for a fallen star.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
News from the Nest- May 21
The current labor situation in the NFL continues to drag on with no immediate end in sight, despite the fact that both sides; league owners and player representatives returned to bargaining table this week with the help of a Federal Mediation Team. It is highly doubtful that anything meaningful will emerge from this latest round of talks as both sides are anxiously awaiting the outcome of June 3 hearing by the 8th US Circuit Court of Appeals on the owners’ appeal of US District Judge Susan Nelson’s decision to grant an injunction to lift the lockout. Both sides are anticipating a resolution in their favor so the current mediation talks are only taking place because they were court ordered.
Many of the players around the league have started organizing their own team workouts and the good news from Eagles’ camp is that quarterback Michael Vick has taken the initiative to organize some workouts in Philadelphia starting this week. Reports are that Vick is hoping to have about 15 players join him including some from the defensive secondary in order to run some one-on-one passing drills. As of today, Vick has yet to find a facility to hold them at, given the fact they are currently locked out of the Eagles’ practice facilities at the Linc.
Much has been made about the future of Philly backup quarterback Kevin Kolb, which continues to point to a trip out West to join the Arizona Cardinals, but what about the future of former QB Donovan McNabb? It is highly doubtful he will be back in Washington after last season’s fall-out with Head Coach Mike Shanahan and his son Kyle, who is the team’s offensive coordinator. McNabb’s numbers last season were not the greatest, but neither were the ones for the team he played for. Once again, he finds himself embroiled in the middle of a controversy that was none of his doing.
For as good as a player as McNabb has been over the course of his 12 year career, he still struggles to get the respect that he rightfully deserves. I was in full agreement last season when Andy Reid decided to go in a different direction by naming Kevin Kolb as a starter. McNabb took the Eagles as far as he was going to and it was time for a clean break for all the parties involved. Shanahan’s Mickey Mouse move of replacing McNabb as the starter with Rex Grossman at the end of last season made absolutely no sense other than to signal that his style of play did not fit the Redskins’ offensive scheme, so they decided to look toward the future.
Some of the teams that have been mentioned as the next stop in Donovan’s illustrious career are Minnesota and Miami. My only hope is that he lands with a team that has a legitimate shot at competing for a Super Bowl as that is the only piece of hardware that is missing from his resume. He still has enough ability to be a starter in the league and a trip to Indianapolis next February may be the only way he finally joins the elite company of a player such as John Elway, whose career was finally validated by a Super Bowl win.
Many of the players around the league have started organizing their own team workouts and the good news from Eagles’ camp is that quarterback Michael Vick has taken the initiative to organize some workouts in Philadelphia starting this week. Reports are that Vick is hoping to have about 15 players join him including some from the defensive secondary in order to run some one-on-one passing drills. As of today, Vick has yet to find a facility to hold them at, given the fact they are currently locked out of the Eagles’ practice facilities at the Linc.
Much has been made about the future of Philly backup quarterback Kevin Kolb, which continues to point to a trip out West to join the Arizona Cardinals, but what about the future of former QB Donovan McNabb? It is highly doubtful he will be back in Washington after last season’s fall-out with Head Coach Mike Shanahan and his son Kyle, who is the team’s offensive coordinator. McNabb’s numbers last season were not the greatest, but neither were the ones for the team he played for. Once again, he finds himself embroiled in the middle of a controversy that was none of his doing.
For as good as a player as McNabb has been over the course of his 12 year career, he still struggles to get the respect that he rightfully deserves. I was in full agreement last season when Andy Reid decided to go in a different direction by naming Kevin Kolb as a starter. McNabb took the Eagles as far as he was going to and it was time for a clean break for all the parties involved. Shanahan’s Mickey Mouse move of replacing McNabb as the starter with Rex Grossman at the end of last season made absolutely no sense other than to signal that his style of play did not fit the Redskins’ offensive scheme, so they decided to look toward the future.
Some of the teams that have been mentioned as the next stop in Donovan’s illustrious career are Minnesota and Miami. My only hope is that he lands with a team that has a legitimate shot at competing for a Super Bowl as that is the only piece of hardware that is missing from his resume. He still has enough ability to be a starter in the league and a trip to Indianapolis next February may be the only way he finally joins the elite company of a player such as John Elway, whose career was finally validated by a Super Bowl win.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Why trade Kolb at all?
One of the biggest stories this offseason has been what the Eagles will do with backup quarterback Kevin Kolb. He is entering the final year of his current contract and has already expressed an interest in being traded in an effort to be a starter in the NFL.
Kolb had the starting role with the Birds locked up until he went down with a concussion against Green Bay on opening day. That opened the door for Michael Vick, who stole the show with a couple of amazing performances while Kolb was on the mend.
The following is a link to an article on Bleed-Green.com with my take on the whole situation.
Why trade Kolb at all?
Kolb had the starting role with the Birds locked up until he went down with a concussion against Green Bay on opening day. That opened the door for Michael Vick, who stole the show with a couple of amazing performances while Kolb was on the mend.
The following is a link to an article on Bleed-Green.com with my take on the whole situation.
Why trade Kolb at all?
News from the Nest
The following is a link to my new weekly feature on Bleed-Green.com, 'News from the Nest'. This week's article takes a look at the Eagles' recent draft and which of the newest Birds are primed to make the biggest impact in 2011.
News from the Nest-May 9
News from the Nest-May 9
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Handicapping Early NFL Week 1 Lines
The NFL labor situation still looks pretty bleak and it is highly doubtful we will get a look at the Eagles' recent draft picks in any OTA's or mini-camps in the near future, but with a ton of optimism that the regular season will start as scheduled, I put together a look at the current lines for Week 1.
Philly will be on the road against St. Louis as a 4 1/2-point favorite with the 'over/under' set at 45. This game should actually be a good early test for the Birds as the Rams are definitely an up and coming team after doubling their win total from the previous three seasons combined with six victories in 2010. They were one win away from winning the NFC West and are expected to compete with San Francisco for this year's division title.
The following is a link to my article on Doc's Sports that takes a look as some of the key matchups scheduled for opening day weekend, which hopefully will take place starting on Thursday, September 8.
Handicapping Early NFL Week 1 Lines
Philly will be on the road against St. Louis as a 4 1/2-point favorite with the 'over/under' set at 45. This game should actually be a good early test for the Birds as the Rams are definitely an up and coming team after doubling their win total from the previous three seasons combined with six victories in 2010. They were one win away from winning the NFC West and are expected to compete with San Francisco for this year's division title.
The following is a link to my article on Doc's Sports that takes a look as some of the key matchups scheduled for opening day weekend, which hopefully will take place starting on Thursday, September 8.
Handicapping Early NFL Week 1 Lines
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Eagles Draft Recap
Here is the complete list of players selected by Philadelphia in the recent NFL draft as provided by NFL.com
Rd 1, Pick 23 (23)
Watkins, Danny OL
Rd 2, Pick 22 (54)
Jarrett, Jaiquawn DB
Rd 3, Pick 26 (90)
Marsh, Curtis DB
Rd 4, Pick 19 (116)
Matthews, Casey LB
Rd 4, Pick 23 (120)
Henery, Alex K
Rd 5, Pick 18 (149)
Lewis, Dion RB
Rd 5, Pick 30 (161)
Vandervelde, Julian OL
Rd 6, Pick 26 (191)
Kelce, Jason OL
Rd 6, Pick 28 (193)
Rolle, Brian LB
Rd 7, Pick 34 (237)
Lloyd, Greg LB
Rd 7, Pick 37 (240)
Havili, Stanley RB
All in all, it was a very utilitarian draft by Andy Reid as he appeared to employ the strategy of 'best player available'. He did a good job addressing needs on the offensive line and the defensive secondary as well as adding some depth to the special teams by taking a few skill players in the later rounds. It will be interesting to see what happens with fourth round pick Alex Henery, who will try and replace longtime Eagle David Akers as the team's new kicker.
From here everything remains on hold until the court system figures out whether or not the current owner's lockout is legal. Hopefully the whole mess will be resolved sooner than later so the Birds can fill a few more holes through free agency.
Rd 1, Pick 23 (23)
Watkins, Danny OL
Rd 2, Pick 22 (54)
Jarrett, Jaiquawn DB
Rd 3, Pick 26 (90)
Marsh, Curtis DB
Rd 4, Pick 19 (116)
Matthews, Casey LB
Rd 4, Pick 23 (120)
Henery, Alex K
Rd 5, Pick 18 (149)
Lewis, Dion RB
Rd 5, Pick 30 (161)
Vandervelde, Julian OL
Rd 6, Pick 26 (191)
Kelce, Jason OL
Rd 6, Pick 28 (193)
Rolle, Brian LB
Rd 7, Pick 34 (237)
Lloyd, Greg LB
Rd 7, Pick 37 (240)
Havili, Stanley RB
All in all, it was a very utilitarian draft by Andy Reid as he appeared to employ the strategy of 'best player available'. He did a good job addressing needs on the offensive line and the defensive secondary as well as adding some depth to the special teams by taking a few skill players in the later rounds. It will be interesting to see what happens with fourth round pick Alex Henery, who will try and replace longtime Eagle David Akers as the team's new kicker.
From here everything remains on hold until the court system figures out whether or not the current owner's lockout is legal. Hopefully the whole mess will be resolved sooner than later so the Birds can fill a few more holes through free agency.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Eagles Select Danny Watkins in the First Round
It comes as little surprise that the Eagles selected an offensive lineman with the 23rd overall pick in last night's first round of the 2011 NFL draft, but who they selected does raise a few questions.
When NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced that Philadelphia had selected Baylor guard Danny Watkins, it was not the name I was expecting with Wisconsin tackle Gabe Carmini and Colorado cornerback Jimmy Smith still on the board. None the less it is a solid pick as the Birds definitely need some help on the right side of the offensive line.
Watkins is a bona fide road grader at 6-foot-4 and 312 pounds and should be able to step in as a starter right away. There is some concern with his age, as he will turn 27 later this year, but if things work out he could become a fixture at right guard for a number of years.
The next major area of need would be in the defensive secondary, which will most likely be addressed tonight in rounds two and three. The Eagles have nine more picks in the draft including two fourth and fifth-round picks and three in the seventh.
When NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced that Philadelphia had selected Baylor guard Danny Watkins, it was not the name I was expecting with Wisconsin tackle Gabe Carmini and Colorado cornerback Jimmy Smith still on the board. None the less it is a solid pick as the Birds definitely need some help on the right side of the offensive line.
Watkins is a bona fide road grader at 6-foot-4 and 312 pounds and should be able to step in as a starter right away. There is some concern with his age, as he will turn 27 later this year, but if things work out he could become a fixture at right guard for a number of years.
The next major area of need would be in the defensive secondary, which will most likely be addressed tonight in rounds two and three. The Eagles have nine more picks in the draft including two fourth and fifth-round picks and three in the seventh.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
2011 NFL Schedule Review
The NFL released the 2011 regular season schedule this past Tuesday. The following is a look at some of the biggest macthups of the year as originally posted on ATS Sportsline
2011 NFL Schedule Review
2011 NFL Schedule Review
Philadelphia Eagles 2011 Regular Season Schedule
The Eagles open the 2011 regular season on the road against the St. Louis Rams on Sunday, September 11 in a 1 p.m. start. From there they head to Atlanta for a Sunday night showdown with the Falcons in Michael Vick's first game at the Georgia Dome since his days with that team.
Birds will play in primetime a total of five times next season with two more Sunday night appearances, two Monday night games, and one NFL Network Thursday night game.
Here is a look at the complete 16 game schedule as provided by ESPN.com
2011 Regular Season Schedule
1 Sun, Sep 11 @St. Louis 1:00 PM
2 Sun, Sep 18 @Atlanta 8:20 PM
3 Sun, Sep 25 vs New York 1:00 PM
4 Sun, Oct 2 vs San Francisco 1:00 PM
5 Sun, Oct 9 @Buffalo 1:00 PM
6 Sun, Oct 16 @Washington 1:00 PM
7 BYE WEEK
8 Sun, Oct 30 vs Dallas 8:20 PM
9 Mon, Nov 7 vs Chicago 8:30 PM
10 Sun, Nov 13 vs Arizona 1:00 PM
11 Sun, Nov 20 @New York 8:20 PM
12 Sun, Nov 27 vs New England 4:15 PM
13 Thu, Dec 1 @Seattle 8:20 PM
14 Sun, Dec 11 @Miami 1:00 PM
15 Sun, Dec 18 vs New York 4:15 PM
16 Sat, Dec 24 @Dallas 4:15 PM
17 Sun, Jan 1 vs Washington 1:00 PM
Birds will play in primetime a total of five times next season with two more Sunday night appearances, two Monday night games, and one NFL Network Thursday night game.
Here is a look at the complete 16 game schedule as provided by ESPN.com
2011 Regular Season Schedule
1 Sun, Sep 11 @St. Louis 1:00 PM
2 Sun, Sep 18 @Atlanta 8:20 PM
3 Sun, Sep 25 vs New York 1:00 PM
4 Sun, Oct 2 vs San Francisco 1:00 PM
5 Sun, Oct 9 @Buffalo 1:00 PM
6 Sun, Oct 16 @Washington 1:00 PM
7 BYE WEEK
8 Sun, Oct 30 vs Dallas 8:20 PM
9 Mon, Nov 7 vs Chicago 8:30 PM
10 Sun, Nov 13 vs Arizona 1:00 PM
11 Sun, Nov 20 @New York 8:20 PM
12 Sun, Nov 27 vs New England 4:15 PM
13 Thu, Dec 1 @Seattle 8:20 PM
14 Sun, Dec 11 @Miami 1:00 PM
15 Sun, Dec 18 vs New York 4:15 PM
16 Sat, Dec 24 @Dallas 4:15 PM
17 Sun, Jan 1 vs Washington 1:00 PM
Saturday, April 16, 2011
News & Notes from the NFL – April 14
Much of the early speculation on who the Eagles will select in the first round of this year's NFL draft has centered around the right tackle position. Quite a few mock draft boards have the Birds taking either Wisconsin's Gabe Carimi or Boston College's Anthony Castonzo with the 23rd overall pick. Everyone knows Andy Reid's propensity for taking linemen early in the draft and the right side of the offensive line is an obvious area of need for this team.
Another hole that needs to be filled is in the defensive secondary, so do not be surprised if Philly takes a cornerback with its first pick. A possible candidate could be Colorado's Jimmy Smith, or the Eagles could try and move up to snag Nebraska's Prince Amukamara, who is regarded as the second-best defensive back in this year's draft after Patrick Peterson.
The one constant from year-to-year with Philadelphia is the fact that it is next to impossible to predict what Reid will do. Just like any good poker player, he never tips his hand before making a play.
Below is a link to all the news & notes from the NFL this past week as originally posted on ATS Sportsline.
News & Notes from the NFL – April 14
Another hole that needs to be filled is in the defensive secondary, so do not be surprised if Philly takes a cornerback with its first pick. A possible candidate could be Colorado's Jimmy Smith, or the Eagles could try and move up to snag Nebraska's Prince Amukamara, who is regarded as the second-best defensive back in this year's draft after Patrick Peterson.
The one constant from year-to-year with Philadelphia is the fact that it is next to impossible to predict what Reid will do. Just like any good poker player, he never tips his hand before making a play.
Below is a link to all the news & notes from the NFL this past week as originally posted on ATS Sportsline.
News & Notes from the NFL – April 14
Saturday, April 9, 2011
News & Notes from the NFL – April 7
Here is a link to the news & notes from the NFL over the past week as originally posted on ATS Sportsline
News & Notes from the NFL – April 7
News & Notes from the NFL – April 7
NFL Draft: Offensive Skill Players a Hot Commodity
Every year all 32 NFL teams look to the college draft as a means to fill existing holes in the starting lineup, add depth to some of the weaker areas on the roster, and to generally improve their overall level of talent.
Selecting offensive and defensive linemen when the need exists often makes the most sense as a strong line on both sides of the ball is the key to winning championships. Despite this fact, football fans rarely get excited when their team selects a 325 pound offensive tackle with its first round pick. Everyone loves the glamour positions of quarterback, wide receiver, and running back.
The following is look back over the past few drafts to see how the top players in these skill positions have fared in their first few seasons in the NFL as originally posted on Doc's Sports
NFL Draft: Offensive Skill Players a Hot Commodity
Selecting offensive and defensive linemen when the need exists often makes the most sense as a strong line on both sides of the ball is the key to winning championships. Despite this fact, football fans rarely get excited when their team selects a 325 pound offensive tackle with its first round pick. Everyone loves the glamour positions of quarterback, wide receiver, and running back.
The following is look back over the past few drafts to see how the top players in these skill positions have fared in their first few seasons in the NFL as originally posted on Doc's Sports
NFL Draft: Offensive Skill Players a Hot Commodity
2011 NFL Draft Preview – Wide Receiver Prospects
The 2011 NFL draft takes place the last week of this month starting with the first round on Thursday night April 28. The second and third rounds will be held on Friday night and the draft will wrap up with rounds four through seven on Saturday afternoon.
The following is a look at the top wide receivers available in this year's group of prospects as originally posted on Bang the Book.
2011 NFL Draft Preview – Wide Receiver Prospects
The following is a look at the top wide receivers available in this year's group of prospects as originally posted on Bang the Book.
2011 NFL Draft Preview – Wide Receiver Prospects
Sunday, April 3, 2011
News & Notes from the NFL
The only game in town for the NFL given the current labor situation is the upcoming college draft scheduled for Thursday, April 28 through Saturday, April 30.
This week's news and notes takes a look at the quarterback position in relation to the past few drafts as well as the top prospects is this year's class.
Here is a link to this week's article as was previously posted on ATS Sportsline
News & Notes from the NFL – March 31
This week's news and notes takes a look at the quarterback position in relation to the past few drafts as well as the top prospects is this year's class.
Here is a link to this week's article as was previously posted on ATS Sportsline
News & Notes from the NFL – March 31
Friday, April 1, 2011
2011 NFL Futures – Odds to win the AFC
The 2011 NFL regular season is still over five months away but its is not too early to take a look at which teams have the best chance to win their conference next season.
The following is a link to a preview of the teams to watch in the AFC as originally posted on Bang the Book
2011 NFL Futures – Odds to win the AFC
The following is a link to a preview of the teams to watch in the AFC as originally posted on Bang the Book
2011 NFL Futures – Odds to win the AFC
2011 NFL Draft Preview – Quarterbacks
This year's NFL draft is less than a month away and it is time to take a look at some of the top prospects at each position. The following is a link to a preview of the top quarterbacks available this year as originally posted on Bang the Book
2011 NFL Draft Preview – Quarterbacks
2011 NFL Draft Preview – Quarterbacks
Saturday, March 26, 2011
News & Notes from the NFL – March 26
This past week was relatively quiet in the NFL with the only activity being the league meetings in New Orleans. The labor situation remains on hold until an April 6 hearing which was set to determine the legality of the owners decision to lock-out the players after the NFLPA decided to decertify the union.
The path to April 28th draft continues to be the only activity in the NFL that has not been impacted by the labor situation. All the experts continue to fine-tune their mock draft boards as the top prospects jockey for position with Pro Day and private team workouts.
Mel Kiper Jr, often thought of as the guru of the NFL draft, was on ESPN this week to discuss the Eagles needs and possible first round pick this year. He has the Birds taking OT Gabe Carimi from Wisconsin with the 23rd overall selection in this year's draft.
We all know from past history that Andy Reid loves big road graders and Carimi certainly fits the bill at 6-foot-7 and 317 pounds. He would plug a major hole on the right side of the offensive line that would not only help Philadelphia's running game, but protect Michael Vick's blindside as he rolls out to his left.
Stayed tuned for more draft updates over the coming weeks, but for now here is a link to this week's NFL news and notes as originally posted on ATS Sportsline.
News & Notes from the NFL – March 26
The path to April 28th draft continues to be the only activity in the NFL that has not been impacted by the labor situation. All the experts continue to fine-tune their mock draft boards as the top prospects jockey for position with Pro Day and private team workouts.
Mel Kiper Jr, often thought of as the guru of the NFL draft, was on ESPN this week to discuss the Eagles needs and possible first round pick this year. He has the Birds taking OT Gabe Carimi from Wisconsin with the 23rd overall selection in this year's draft.
We all know from past history that Andy Reid loves big road graders and Carimi certainly fits the bill at 6-foot-7 and 317 pounds. He would plug a major hole on the right side of the offensive line that would not only help Philadelphia's running game, but protect Michael Vick's blindside as he rolls out to his left.
Stayed tuned for more draft updates over the coming weeks, but for now here is a link to this week's NFL news and notes as originally posted on ATS Sportsline.
News & Notes from the NFL – March 26
Saturday, March 19, 2011
News & Notes from the NFL – March 19
The ongoing labor situation in the NFL continues to dominate the headlines as the divide between the league owners and players appears to be as wide as ever.
The following is a link to a review of the entire situation as well as some other news & notes from the NFL as originally posted on ATS Sportsline
News & Notes from the NFL- March 19
The following is a link to a review of the entire situation as well as some other news & notes from the NFL as originally posted on ATS Sportsline
News & Notes from the NFL- March 19
Friday, March 11, 2011
News & Notes from the NFL- March 11
The rubber meets the road today in the onging labor negotiations between the NFL owners and the league's Players Association. The current deadlines that exist today are twofold. First, the current collective bargaining agreement that was set to expire on March 3 but was extended until today will expire at 11:49 p.m. tonight intiating a player lock-out by the owners.
The more pressing deadline is the decision to decertify the current players' union and put this whole matter into the hands of the courts. The union has until 5 p.m. today to file the necessary paperwork to go this route.
The third option would be to extend the existing CBA for the third time in an effort to keep the current talks alive in hopes of closing the gaps that remain between both sides.
Below is a link to all the news from the NFL this week as originally posted on ATS Sportsline
News & Notes from the NFL- March 11
The more pressing deadline is the decision to decertify the current players' union and put this whole matter into the hands of the courts. The union has until 5 p.m. today to file the necessary paperwork to go this route.
The third option would be to extend the existing CBA for the third time in an effort to keep the current talks alive in hopes of closing the gaps that remain between both sides.
Below is a link to all the news from the NFL this week as originally posted on ATS Sportsline
News & Notes from the NFL- March 11
Friday, March 4, 2011
2011 NFL Draft Preview- Wide Recievers
While the entire NFL labor situation still remains a mess, the one thing we know for sure is that starting on Thursday, April 28 and running through Saturday, April 30 the league will conduct its annual college draft as scheduled.
The following link is a review of the top wide receivers available this year as originally posted on Doc's Sports
Wide Receivers in the 2011 NFL Draft
The following link is a review of the top wide receivers available this year as originally posted on Doc's Sports
Wide Receivers in the 2011 NFL Draft
Friday, February 25, 2011
News from the Nest- Feb.25
Much of the activity in the NFL this week has centered on the labor talks in Washington, D.C. and the Scouting Combines in Indianapolis. While the NFL draft in April will not be affected by the current labor situation it appears that any other activity in the league is about to come to a screeching halt. A player lock-out on March 4 seems imminent as both sides remain far apart in their negotiations.
As far as any news out of South Philly, the Eagles' coaching staff is busy sifting through the 300+ players that are attending this year's Combine. Obvious areas of need for this team are primarily on the defensive-side of the ball as they are a couple of huge holes to fill.
New defensive coordinator Juan Castillo is now under the gun to turn this squad around after Sean McDermott was let go at the end of the season. While it is too early to form a short list of actual players that would be on the Eagles' wish list, you have to believe that the line or secondary would be the top priority.
The Birds made one minor move this week by signing linebacker Rashad Jeanty to a one-year deal. He last played in 2009 after breaking his leg before the start of the 2010 and has 32 starts in his four year career.
As far as any news out of South Philly, the Eagles' coaching staff is busy sifting through the 300+ players that are attending this year's Combine. Obvious areas of need for this team are primarily on the defensive-side of the ball as they are a couple of huge holes to fill.
New defensive coordinator Juan Castillo is now under the gun to turn this squad around after Sean McDermott was let go at the end of the season. While it is too early to form a short list of actual players that would be on the Eagles' wish list, you have to believe that the line or secondary would be the top priority.
The Birds made one minor move this week by signing linebacker Rashad Jeanty to a one-year deal. He last played in 2009 after breaking his leg before the start of the 2010 and has 32 starts in his four year career.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
News & Notes from the NFL- February 15
The big news this week was Philadelphia's decision to place the franchise tag on quarterback Michael Vick. This means that Vick will earn an estimated $16 million dollars next season while both sides work on a long term deal.
The decision to use the tag on Vick to lock him up for another year makes all the sense in the world given the current NFL labor situation. Until the league owners and players' association can come up with a new collective bargaining agreement it would be hard for any team to fashion an extended year deal for one of its top players. This is why Indianapolis did the same thing with Peyton Manning this week.
A complete wrap-up of all the news from the NFL this past week can be found in my weekly article on ATS Sportsline (link is below).
News & Notes from the NFL
The decision to use the tag on Vick to lock him up for another year makes all the sense in the world given the current NFL labor situation. Until the league owners and players' association can come up with a new collective bargaining agreement it would be hard for any team to fashion an extended year deal for one of its top players. This is why Indianapolis did the same thing with Peyton Manning this week.
A complete wrap-up of all the news from the NFL this past week can be found in my weekly article on ATS Sportsline (link is below).
News & Notes from the NFL
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
News from the NFL – February 8
The celebration is still going strong in Green Bay, but there are 31 other teams including Philadelphia that are working on a plan to bring the Vince Lombardi Trophy back home from Super Bowl XVLI in Indianapolis.
Bodog.com has opened the Eagles at 16/1 to win next year's Super Bowl which is slightly better odds than last year's 25/1 odds. Much of their chances will hinge on Michael Vick's ability to play at a high level for a full 16-game season. It will also hinge on Andy Reid's ability to plug some of the gaping holes on defense that once again exposed themselves down the stretch.
I just cannot help but think how this season would have turned out if Vick would have completed that last throw in the end zone against the Packers, or if David Akers would have made those two field goals to give the Eagles the lead in that game.
Once again would of, could of, should of is the tagline of another disappointing end to the year, but one thing that last season did establish is that this team is not that far away from making a legitimate run at a championship.
The following is a link to a new weekly series that I will be posting on this site, "News from the NFL". It was originally posted on ATS Sportsline.
News from the NFL – February 8
Bodog.com has opened the Eagles at 16/1 to win next year's Super Bowl which is slightly better odds than last year's 25/1 odds. Much of their chances will hinge on Michael Vick's ability to play at a high level for a full 16-game season. It will also hinge on Andy Reid's ability to plug some of the gaping holes on defense that once again exposed themselves down the stretch.
I just cannot help but think how this season would have turned out if Vick would have completed that last throw in the end zone against the Packers, or if David Akers would have made those two field goals to give the Eagles the lead in that game.
Once again would of, could of, should of is the tagline of another disappointing end to the year, but one thing that last season did establish is that this team is not that far away from making a legitimate run at a championship.
The following is a link to a new weekly series that I will be posting on this site, "News from the NFL". It was originally posted on ATS Sportsline.
News from the NFL – February 8
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Your Complete Guide to Super Bowl XLV
Super Bowl XLV between the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers is rapidly approaching as kickoff is only two days away. This season's 'NFL game of the year' has a strong possibility of living up to all the hype as this is one of the most closely matched championship games in years.
The Packers remain a 2 1/2-point favorite, but the line might as well be even because either team has an excellent chance to win this game. Just when I think I have a strong case for picking Green Bay, I rehash things and come up with an equally solid reason for going with Pittsburgh.
Given my dilemma, I have decided to use common sense and take the 2 1/2-points and the Steelers. With everything else being equal the points proved to be the difference. I honestly think this will be a one or two point game either way, so going with Pittsburgh allows me to cover no matter what.
To get you ready for the big game I have attached links below to three articles that can not only help you fine-tune your bets on the game but for some of the 'prop' bets that have also been posted for Sunday's big game.
Super Bowl XLV Prop Bets
2011 NFL Super Bowl Gambling: Lines | Matchups & Predictions
2011 Super Bowl Handicapping & Gambling Tips
The Packers remain a 2 1/2-point favorite, but the line might as well be even because either team has an excellent chance to win this game. Just when I think I have a strong case for picking Green Bay, I rehash things and come up with an equally solid reason for going with Pittsburgh.
Given my dilemma, I have decided to use common sense and take the 2 1/2-points and the Steelers. With everything else being equal the points proved to be the difference. I honestly think this will be a one or two point game either way, so going with Pittsburgh allows me to cover no matter what.
To get you ready for the big game I have attached links below to three articles that can not only help you fine-tune your bets on the game but for some of the 'prop' bets that have also been posted for Sunday's big game.
Super Bowl XLV Prop Bets
2011 NFL Super Bowl Gambling: Lines | Matchups & Predictions
2011 Super Bowl Handicapping & Gambling Tips
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