Miami Dolphins Blogs

Free Agency just started on Friday, and the Jets and Dolphins have both made significant moves while the Patriots have stuck to signing their own guys, and it's become a popular article around the interwebs whether these moves have dethroned New England as the AFC East favorites.

Continue reading "And on the 4th Day of Free Agency ..."

The Indianapolis Colts will play the New Orleans Saints in Super Bowl XLIV on February 7 at Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

 

The contest is expected to be an offensive shootout pitting Colts (16-2) quarterback Peyton Manning against Saints (15-3) signal-caller Drew Brees.

Continue reading "The Best Quarterback Matchups in ..."

Happy New Year everyone! The NFC is all about seeding this Sunday, with all of the players at the table. In the AFC, the two wildcard spots will be hotly contested with the Ravens and Jets owning the inside track. Let's not waste time, here's the Opening Drive of week 17 in the NFL! *sniffle* It goes by so fast!

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 17"

In 2005, the Patriots “lost” the season finale to the Miami Dolphins. Because of that “loss,” the Pats hosted the Jacksonville Jaguars in the Wild Card game instead of facing Pittsburgh.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 16"

It was a crazy week 14 in the NFL, book-ended by division upsets on Thursday and Monday night. While the playoff picture is coming into focus, we still have loads of drama in the NFC East and two undefeated teams with their eyes set on the Lombardi Trophy. The Final Drive starts now!

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 14"

Where do I start?

 

It’s not just the offense that’s predictable. Opponents know what’s coming and figured out how to stop it.

 

It’s not just the lack of a reliable third receiver when Randy Moss and Wes Welker are covered. Whether it is a slot guy or the tight end, QB Tom Brady doesn’t trust them.

Continue reading "Pick Six: Week 13"

Absent from the buildup for this divisional match-up between the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots has been a bulletin board quote from the irascible Joey Porter.

 

The outside linebacker, who’s never at a loss for words, hasn’t said anything to rile up the Pats. That’s understandable, considering QB Tom Brady said after the last game between the teams that Porter’s statement of genuine hate between the players inspired the Pats.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 13"

Miami has historically always been a tough place for Tom Brady and the Patriots to win a game, and this week will provide just the test the Pats need. Miami is never a pushover, despite the fact that they will be missing RB Ronnie Brown, the heart of the offense, NT Jason Ferguson, the heart of the defense,  and Jake Grove, the center signed almost specifically to deal with Vince Wilfork.

Continue reading "Win at Miami Just What Patriots Need"

Wow, the weeks after the Patriots lose are certainly depressing. This is the 4th time in 2009 that I've found myself entering a football-free bubble. When the Patriots win I pretty much watch every bit of football news I can get my eyes on. Everyone loves to hear all the commentators glow over their team.

Continue reading "Patriots Turn the Page to the Miami Dolphins"

When it comes to the winning, New England is still the team everyone wants to beat. To make a statement to the rest of the league, a win over the Patriots is the best feather any team can stick in their cap.

Continue reading "Pick Six: Week Nine"

Just like the Patriots addressed the secondary with defending tall receivers in mind, the Miami Dolphins did the same in the off-season. The difference was the source of the remedy.

 

New England signed free agent veteran cornerbacks Shawn Springs and Leigh Bodden. Miami went the younger route and drafted Vonta Davis and Sean Smith.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 9"

 

A slew of division match-ups are highlighted in this week’s NFL schedule. First place is up for grabs in the NFC East and one team hopes to avoid falling further behind the Colts in the AFC South. What games should you be watching? Find out in the Opening Drive of week nine!

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 9"

This week we've got a new feature we're calling "Donning the Hoodie", where yours truly will step into the role of Bill Belichick and lay out a game plan of how the Patriots might game plan against their opponent.

Continue reading "Donning the Hoodie: Patriots Defense ..."

It's Wednesday, and that means that Sunday's AFC East clash between the Dolphins and Patriots is quickly approaching. Finally we're back to games that count for something. With a win the Pats can really put themselves in great position to retake the AFC East and restore order to the galaxy.

Continue reading "More Drama for Adalius Thomas?"

The Titans and Rams each found their first wins, another team fell from the undefeated ranks and both New York squads lost key division games. By the way, Drew Brees and Peyton Manning are pretty good. *cough*Favre won*cough* Let’s wrap the week eight in the NFL with the Final Drive!

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 8"

Over the past few games Derrick Burgess role with the Patriots has been gradually increasing. Originally brought in as what was thought to be strictly a hand-down pass rusher, Burgess has been seen playing stand-up outside linebacker as the Patriots have employed of their usual 3-4 defense.

Continue reading "Patriots' Burgess Will Play a Key ..."

It's November and as you might've noticed from yesterday's NFL game action, teams are starting to play their best football. The Patriots bye came at a great time, as they now face five games that will determine the 2009 season.

Continue reading "The Real Season is About to Start ..."

     The Saints unbelievably exciting come-from-behind victory forces Big Daddy to start working on his Super Bowl Shuffle, preparing for the Black ’n’ Gold’ s next visit to South Beach— in early February. Boy, things looked bleak until Drew Brees’ touchdown just before halftime sparked an amazing turn of events. Having a record of 5-0 following our destruction of the vaunted Giants felt great, but the Saints late afternoon fish fry had Little Havana muttering all sorts of Cuban expletives. In this week’ s edition of

Continue reading "Big Daddy Handles The South Beach Dress Rehearsal:"

 

This weekend Denver faces yet another stiff challenge, and four division match-ups make the Opening Drive! Oh yeah, and some guy named Favre returns to the second team he played for. No big whoop. Let’s analyze! 

Continue reading "Joe’s NFL Opening Drive: Week 8"

Wide receiver Miles Austin helped lead the Dallas Cowboys to a 37-21 victory over the Atlanta Falcons Sunday at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

 

Austin, 25, an undrafted free-agent from Monmouth University in New Jersey, had eight receptions for 171 yards and two touchdowns as the Cowboys improved their record to 4-2.

Continue reading "Cowboys Receiver Miles Austin and Daddy Warbucks"

Wow, it was blowout city this weekend. 11 of the 13 NFL games in week 7 were decided by ten points or more. That’s just ridiculous. Maybe it was good I was moving furniture on Sunday… wait, no it still wasn’t. To the Final Drive of week 7! 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 7"

Hopefully RB Laurence Maroney doesn’t think he’s off the hook after rushing for 123 yards (7.7 average) and a score. If anything, the expectations have gone up. It’s nice to see you blow up in one game as the undisputed primary ball carrier. But can you do this week after week after week?

Continue reading "Staying On the Run"

Um… I struggled to find six games with real significant drama. Bob Sanders will return to the Colts, but it’s against the lowly Rams! The Packers face the bumbling Browns, New England faces winless Tampa Bay in London, and Buffalo takes on Carolina. *shudder* Here’s the best of week seven in my Opening Drive! 

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 7"

After the Jets got pushed around by Miami on Monday night football, there were a lot of complaints coming out of the Jets locker room.  Head Coach Rex Ryan said that the Wildcat was “gimmicky”.  Jets outside linebacker Calvin Pace, who returned from a 4-game suspension for getting performance enhancing drugs, said that there was no place for the Wildcat offense in professional football. 

Continue reading "Wildcat Whining"

The Miami Dolphins physically outmuscled the New York Jets and earned a 31-27 victory Monday night at Land Shark Stadium in Florida.

 

“First off, it was a complete embarrassment by our defense and by me,” said Jets Head Coach Rex Ryan to the

Continue reading "The Jets Will Only Fly If Their Offensive ..."

Still love me some NFL. Josh McDaniels kicked Bill Belichick’s Patriots right out of Denver while Matt Ryan picked apart a supposedly stout San Francisco defense. Oh, and Peyton Manning is still awesome. I wrap up week five in the NFL in the Final Drive! 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 5"

 

With some downright horrendous match-ups this weekend, this edition of the Opening Drive is shorter than usual. Just writing about Cleveland versus Buffalo would put me to sleep. Let’s get things going with the most anticipated games of week four! 

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 5"

Someone finally looked like a rookie quarterback; things are going south in Tennessee, and some guy named Brett Favre made headlines. I wrap up week four in the NFL with the Final Drive! 

Continue reading "Joe's Final Drive: Week 4"

The Patriots offense was virtually shut down by the New York Jets. QB Tom Brady was unable to get the offense into the endzone and was constantly rushed by a relentless New York blitz. It got people saying the Jets had the blueprint for beating the Patriots and with the rest of the league as witnesses, every opponent will follow suit.

Continue reading "The Blueprint"

There are two things you need to know about New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan.

 

One, he has a big mouth. He didn’t even wait until the ink dried on his contract before he started throwing verbal spears. He had an entertaining one-on-one with Miami LB Channing Crowder. And Patriot fans had his “I never came here to kiss Bill Belichick’s rings” statement memorized since Ryan said it in June.

Continue reading "Nothing Wrong with Rex Ryan in my Book"

Suicide Pick.

The Lions travel to the big Easy. Saints have high hope this year after Drew Brees awesome season last year. One more Touchdown drie and he would of had a new record. Now to the Contest. The Lions have won outright the last 2 times they where dogs against the Saints. The under is 8-2 last 10 times these teams meet.

Continue reading "Week 1 NFL Season!!!!!!! Sweet!"

Do you smell that? It smells like football! No more preseason, no more scrubs fighting for jobs. It's time for the return of the Opening Drive!

Continue reading "Joe's Opening Drive: Week 1"

      Mid August in North Florida has again arrived.  The tropics are getting active, the heat is oppressive,the kids are getting ready for another school year, and the collective attention of the greatest football fans in the country

Continue reading "THE STATE OF THE JAGUARS"

I’m not much of a poker player, but since the beginning of training camp, head coach Bill Belichick has been exchanging cards, looking for a full house.

 

They looked at QB Cleo Lemon. DE Kevin Carter seems to be getting serious consideration. QB Matt Gutierrez was cut and QB Andrew Walter signed to replace Gutz.

Continue reading "Ninkovich in the Cards"

The Dolphins were a much improved team last year.  There might be a slight step back this year, or maybe a stand still.  This team won't be better.  Mostly because they did not upgrade their talent that much and their scheduale will be a lot harder.  The defense will be the strength of this team and the offense will be a ball control type offense.  So, low scores means a good fantasy pick for the defense.

Continue reading "Miami Dolphins fantasy outlook"

Philadelphia Sports Fans Are Scumbags

A man was beaten to death in a savage and needless fracas that occurred outside of Citizen’s Bank Park in the final innings of the Philadelphia Phillies 14-6 home win versus the St. Louis Cardinals Saturday night.  

Continue reading "Philadelphia Sports Fans Are Scumbags, ..."

Latin pop singer Marc Anthony officially became a minority owner of the Miami Dolphins last week.

 

New Dolphins owner Stephen M. Ross decided to add Anthony, 40, as an investor after he received a call from a lawyer who suggested he meet with Jennifer Lopez’s bitch.

Continue reading "With Marc Anthony As An Owner, The ..."

As long as everyone else is throwing in their two cents about disgraced NFL quarterback Michael Vick's next career move, I thought I should chime in because the answer is just common sense.

Mike -- can I call you Mike? -- this is what you should do: Forget about a return to pro football for 2009 and contact dog whisperer Cesar Millan about becoming his sidekick.

Continue reading "Two Words of Advice for Vick: Reality Series"

 

  There's a saying about every sport that goes "Love the game first, the league second, your team third, and the players last". This saying poignantly displays that all fans are interconnected by their love for the game, no matter which team they support. I'm going to identify 3 teams that every NFL fan should be rooting for this season (of course unless they face your favorite team) and 3 you should be rooting against (unless they are your hometown team).

Continue reading "3 NFL teams to love (and 3 to hate!) this season"

Over the last two years America has slowly sunk into an economic mess. People are losing their jobs, their homes, and their self-esteem as they find it harder and harder to make ends meet. It appears however that not everybody is suffering. As college educated people lose jobs they've held for years, and recent college graduates struggle to find any job at all, there are some signing on the dotted line for millions that haven't earned a dime of what they are being given. America's two largest, and most arguably most popular, professional sports leagues are doing nothing to curtail ballooning salaries for top rated rookies who haven't even set foot on the field to prove they are worthy of a contract.

Continue reading "More and more money, but for what?"

I had alot of hope for this guy, I still do. If you have not heard of Cameron Wake by now I am not suprised. His presence has been buried by the return of Jason Taylor (WELCOME BACK!). Wake was plucked from the CFL where in two seasons he collected 39 sacks, was the Outstanding Rookie Of The Year his first season, and was Most Outstanding Defensive Player both years. Now I know the CFL is in no way shape or form the NFL, but looking at those sack stats got me giddy at the thought of what he could possibly do in this league.

Continue reading "Miami Dolphins LB Cameron Wake"

There seems to be a little controversy over Jason Taylors possible homecoming to Miami.  Some fans seem to think his best days are behind him.  This would be the view of some short-sighted people, in my opinion.  Though he didn't have a great season last year, it was his first year with a new team and a new system, along with his injuries, I would think it would be pretty unfair to make any kind of negative judgments towards 2007's defensive player of the year.  I would say that last year Jason's priorities were split between football and another passion of his, Hollywood.  We all know you can't play footbal forever, especially when you play a tough position like DE.  Jason earned his "year off" if you will, with Miami in my opinion, and I was personally very disappointed when the fins decide not to keep him last year.  Unfortunately the NFL like everything else in this country is becoming more about the money than about the people involved.  I think Jason was disheartened with Miami's decision and I think it made his try for an acting career a lot harder than it should have been.  You can't blame the Redskins for being dissapointed, but I just don't think Jason's heart was in it last year.  It sounds like he's ready to play football again, and we know if he plays here he's going to give 110%.  His injuries were probably a result of poor conditioning last year, not a sign of age.  I'm personally looking forward to another great season from the Dolphins, and eagerly anticipating the return of one of the greatest footbal players in my time.

Continue reading "Jason Taylor WELCOME HOME to Miami"

Jason Taylor Doesn't Want to Play for the Jets? The Jets Don't Want or Need Taylor! 

Free agent defensive end Jason Taylor told a reporter last week that he would like to return to Miami to play for the Dolphins this upcoming season and he likely would not even consider signing a contract with the New York Jets.

Continue reading "Jason Taylor Doesn't Want the Jets ..."

Wow, Coach Tony was seen pitching balls for the Mets in Port St Lucie. You should have seen his release, incredible!! I am not sure where they got his t-shirt though, it must have been specially made.

Continue reading "Coach Tony and the Mets"

Shaq and Kobe “Had a Good Time” with Each Other 

Phoenix Suns center Shaquille O’Neal and Los Angles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant begrudgingly shared co-MVP awards at the All-Star game this past Valentine’s Day weekend as the Western Conference dominated the East 146-119 at the US Airways Center in Arizona.  

Continue reading "Shaq & Kobe "Had a Good Time" and ..."

Another week has come and gone, and there is another Sunday crossword to make me feel like college was a waste of money and another week of sports in our memory banks. From the aftermath of Alex Rodriguez’ steroid scandal to a NBA player looking like the lovechild of a Georgetown basketball coach and a patriotic Muppet, there’s much to talk about and a whole lot more on my mind.

Continue reading "The Sports Don's Sunday Musings: Volume II"

Brett Lorenzo Favre, the beloved gunslinger from Southern Mississippi who was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons, made his first pass completion on his way to prominence as a Packer to himself and adorned a New York Jets uniform in his final season, announced his retirement yesterday…again.

Continue reading "Favre Retires. Finally. I Think."

Wow after an 0-16 season finding a new coach for the lions will be like finding Bigfoot in NYC.  It's not gonna be easy but at least Matt Millen isn't helping this time.  The Lions are on the verge of a new begining and they need the right coach to start the process.  Rumors have it that they are looking into one of the Assistant head coaches of the cinderella story Miami Dolphins (Todd Bowles).  Also they have had a second interview with Titan's Jim Schwartz. 

Continue reading "Search for a new Coach Continues!!!"

It was bound to happen sooner or later. Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels turned down opportunities after last season, but he knew teams would keep knocking on his door. He was waiting for the right opening, and the chance to be the Denver Broncos' head coach might be exactly what he wants.

Continue reading "McDaniels Leaves the Nest"

When I heard that LB Jerod Mayo received 49 of 50 votes for Defensive Player of the Year, I asked two questions: 1. Who got the one vote, then later, 2. Who the hell voted for Keith Rivers?

I won't argue Rivers won't be a good player down the road. In limited playing time, he had 37 tackles with an interception. But to compare a player that only played seven games versus someone who started 16 is illogical. Even if Rivers' number were projected to 16 games he's far behind Mayo's production. Sorry Rivers that you got your jaw broke by Pittsburgh Steelers WR Hines Ward, but that's football.

Continue reading "Stray Votes"

Ok this is my first post for my sports blog. As my profile says I am interested in the minutiae of these sports.

I am thinking that it would be impossible for the "cleaners" (they probably have a cool title) of sports uniforms to wash them after every game and get the grass stains out. Because they would have to budget in brand new uniforms for every game. Isn't that excessive? I mean with all those salaries they pay. Maybe they have little people in the basement scrubbing these things with some secret substance. That would be the real money maker!!! Now that would sell to all those kids teams in the burbs. 

Continue reading "Green stains, Tide and the Miami Dolphins"

Analyzing Sunday's Ravens-Dolphins game:

1. Joe Flacco: The rookie posted his lowest completion percentage of the season (9 completions in 23 attempts, or 39.1%). He threw for only 135 yards, and missed on at least 3 bombs to receivers open downfield (though he would have had a TD pass if Todd Heap had held onto a catchable ball in the end zone). Still, on a day when his counterpart in teal threw 4 interceptions and took some vicious hits, Flacco made smart decisions, converted several third downs on both TD drives, and ran a perfect QB keeper up the middle for the icing score. In short, nothing special—most likely nothing that will get it done against the Titans or Steelers—but he gave his team enough to walk away with the win. The first win ever for a rookie QB making his playoff debut on the road, by the way. Not even Ben Roethlisberger can say that.

Continue reading "Baltimore Ravens-Miami Dolphins post-game ..."

It is weekends like the one we just had that make me glad I don’t make actual predictions in my blog. I would have been at best two for four, and maybe even one for four if I had gone with the Dolphins as a sentimental favorite. Showcasing its parity, each day of the NFL’s Wild Card Weekend followed different themes. On Saturday, the home teams pulled out the close victories, while on Sunday the road teams won in a more lop-sided manner. Let’s take a look at the weekend that was in this Wild Card edition of the Final Drive. 

Continue reading "Joey A's Final Drive: Wild Card Weekend"

Continue reading "Motivation for this weekends games."

I'm not sure how much to take from a game that was basically handed to us during a stunning 22-minute stretch, when a Dolphins team that tied a league record for fewest turnovers in a season self-imploded. Miami turned the ball over 5 times during those 22 minutes (including 4 picks, most of them gift-wrapped by a QB who'd thrown only 7 in the previous 16 games), and a 3-3 nail-biter became a 20-3 laugher.

Continue reading "Baltimore Ravens-Miami Dolphins post-game ..."

It was a bitter end. The 2008 Miami Dolphins unexpected ride on the road to the Super Bowl came to a quick end at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens. When the clock reached triple zeroes, the Fins were on the losing end of a 27-9 slaughter.

Continue reading "Baltimore Ravens defeat Miami Dolphins 27-9"

    The AFC East Champion Miami Dolphins have not shown any team dominance over the last few games of the season and find themselves playing the underdog role against the Baltimore Ravens.  The Ravens come into Dolphins Stadium after securing the last playoff spot with a win against the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

Continue reading "Wild Card Prediction"

The playoffs are finally here, and not a moment too soon. After a crazy regular season, twelve teams are left with their eyes on the Super Bowl. Let’s get you ready for this weekend with a wild-card edition of the Opening Drive.

Continue reading "Joey A's Opening Drive: Wild Card Weekend"

  

           Each week, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend’s games.  I will prognosticate on all the playoff games each week.  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!

Continue reading "Predictions Wildcard Weekend"

Continue reading "Wild Card Weekend"

Before previewing the big Vikings/Eagles matchup that will cap off the NFC Wild Card playoff round, I would first like to give my "official" (meaning they are most likely completely wrong!) predictions for the other three wild card games:

Continue reading "NFL Playoffs: Wild Card Preview"

Thin-slicing. It is the act cutting through all extraneous information and getting to the key items that characterize something. Malcolm Gladwell wrote an entertaining and informative book on thin-slicing called

Continue reading "Thin-slicing Week 1 of the NFL Playoffs"

  

The crystal ball had a mediocre performance this past week, going a mere 2-2.  We’re not sure what happened, but this is not acceptable.  The crystal ball took its lumps on the Cowboys game, but it may have been predicting with its heart rather than its fortune-telling powers?  Either way, that puts the crystal ball at 33-26-1 for the season.  That’s seven games over .500 (.558 to be exact).  Hopefully the crystal ball will perform better in the playoffs!  Let’s take a look back, and review what happened last week.

Continue reading "Week 17 Review"

 

           This past Sunday, the Dallas Cowboys traveled to Lincoln Financial Field to play the Philadelphia Eagles in what was a win and you’re in the playoffs game.  This game had a lot of build-up prior kick-off.  The Eagles found out, about 15 minutes before the game started, that the stars had aligned for them; the Bears and Buccaneers had both lost.  This game had everything football fans wanted.  It was the ‘Boys against the Birds, with their playoff destinies on the line.

Continue reading "Underachievers"

In an improbable year, the biggest story in the NFL continues.  The Miami Dolphins went from winning only one game last season to capturing the AFC East title by handling the New York Jets a home defeat. 

Continue reading "Miami Dolphins capture AFC East title"

Well, that's it. The Patriots did what they needed to do Sunday, but it just didn't happen. That's why every team should handle their business on their own and don't leave the job for a third party to complete.

Continue reading "The Drive in '09"

  

           Each week, on Friday, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend’s games.  I will always prognosticate on the Eagles and Cowboys games and then pick two or more games of interest (to me, that is, not necessarily to you).  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!

Continue reading "Predictions Week 17"

I'm not here to rant and rave about Pennington being snubbed from the AFC Pro Bowl team.  Do I think the man deserved a spot on the squad? Absolutely. But, do I understand why he was left off the roster? Of course.  Pennington's numbers — 3,453 yards to go with 17 TDs and 7 picks — aren't quite as flashy as the stats Peyton Manning, Brett Favre and Jay Cutler have put up through the air this season, but they are certainly solid.  For the record, Manning has thrown for 3907 yards, 26 TDs and 12 picks, Favre has 3239/21/19 and Cutler has 4210/24/16 through 15 games this year. Sure, CP has more yards and 12 fewer completions to the other team than Favre, but remember, it's Brett Favre.  As long as Favre is healthy and somewhat productive, the man will be in the Pro Bowl.

Continue reading "Props for Pennington"

 

           Each week I will answer questions submitted by my loyal readers.  I personally read every single email I receive.  I will pick out the best five or so to use for the weekly post, as I won’t be able to answer all of them.  I will also answer one or two questions on my daily posts as well.  Now it’s time to open the mail!

Continue reading "Reality Mail Bag - 12/25/08"

Continue reading "Quick Peek at the weekend action, ..."

By now we all know what needs to happen for the Patriots to get into the playoffs, but what happens if and when they get there? 

There are four potential scenarios that could play out depending on what happens this weekend. Assuming the Patriots beat the Bills, which may be a foolish assumption but it's no fun to assume otherwise, here they are:

Continue reading "Potential Patriots Playoff Scenarios"

 

The crystal ball had a mediocre performance this past week, going a mere 2-2.  We’re not sure what happened, but we will get to the bottom of this.  The crystal ball took its lumps on the Cowboys game, but it may have been predicting with its heart rather than its fortune-telling powers?  Either way, that puts the crystal ball at 29-22-1 for the season.  That’s seven games over .500 (.563 to be exact).  Let’s take a look back, and review what happened last week.

Continue reading "Week 16 Review"

Usually I’m not one to consider a conspiracy in sports but the “flex schedule” set up by the NFL has gotten me perturbed to say the least. With their slaughter over the Cardinals last week the Patriots did their part in the efforts to make the playoffs. As luck would have it the Seahawks, allowing a glimmer of hope for New England, downed the Jets. In the final week of the regular season the Jets and Dolphins were to meet in an AFC East clash that will determine the fate of the division. With the entirety of the East playing at 1pm all of the NFL would know by early evening their AFC East divisional winner.

Continue reading "A Final Punishment?"

    What more could you ask for?  Down to the last game of the season, Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington heads back to New York for what literally is the AFC East title game against his former team the New York Jets.  Jets opted for the unretired Bret Favre over what many considered a weak armed Pennington during the offseason.  Pennington who had spent his entire career with the Jets found himself playing his 9th season with division rivals Dolphins.  A team that went 1-15 in 2007 but were in the middle of management shake up with new GM Bill Parcels and first year head couch Tony Sparano.

Continue reading "Pennington returns to New York"

  

           On Saturday night, the Cowboys had a golden opportunity to close out Texas Stadium in style.  This was the final game to be played at the stadium.  A Cowboys win would have been a fitting end to a stadium that has had many classic games.  A win, and the Cowboys would have been one step further in their quest for a playoff berth, and a Super Bowl run.

Continue reading "Not Dead Yet"

As I watch the Patriots season I can help but be reminded of baseball seasons past. As an avid Red Sox fan the race for the pennant is always one that leaves fans on the edge of their seats, gasping for air and clutching their tall frosty ones until their fingers are sore. The Patriots are going to need Lady Luck if they're going to have a shot at the playoff picture. As of right the only thing New England fans can do is hope for the best. Even if the Pats can win the next two games (which they'll need) and finish off their season with a respectable 11-5 record there's no guaranteed in. The AFC East is looking more and more like the AL East from the MLB with NE, MIA, and NYJ acting the parts of BOS, TB, and NYY respectively. The question becomes what will it take for the Patriots to make the playoffs? The Cowboys defensive line, errr I mean... Baltimore dealt a devastating blow for all other's attempting to secure the final wild card position, as long as they beat the Jags next week the spot is theirs. Unless the Ravens drop their final game the only opportunity for the Pats to gain entry will be through their division rivals. The Dolphins and the Jets will play their final game against one another making a loss for either one of them today a potential playoff run-ender. All three teams in this race to the finish will play their week 17 games simultaneously which should be cause for all out play. The ideal scenario would be for both the Jets and Dolphins to lose today and the Patriots to win their next two games however if the Patriots are emulating the Red Sox we all know it's not going to be that easy. The more likely scenario will be one of the two teams losing today and then winning next week, again ideal. In conclusion New England fans break out whatever good luck charms you might be carrying, hope that Lady Luck and Mother Nature are in our corners and of course cross your fingers.

Continue reading "Sizing up the Playoff Picture"

Well it's a clear as day now. In order to get in, the Patriots must win out and get some much needed help.

Assistance wasn't provided last night as Dallas gave away their final game at Texas Stadium to visiting Baltimore. And how the Ravens won was unbelievable. Two consecutive runs gained 159 yards and two touchdowns. The Cowboys looked more like security detail clearing the way through the paparazzi than defenders going in for the tackle.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 16"

I would like to thank the Minnesota Vikings for putting the boots to the Arizona Cardinals, with their back-up quarterback, to the tune of 35-14. As if the Cards didn't have reason enough to win this Sunday. They're still jockeying for playoff positioning. Now they are hungry to bounce back from Sunday's butt-kicking.

Continue reading "Another Inspired Patriots Opponent"

 

The crystal ball, once again, had a stellar performance this past week, going undefeated at 4-0.  Truly a tremendous achievement, as many of the games had playoff implications.  That puts the crystal ball at 29-22-1 for the season.  That’s seven games over .500 (.567 to be exact).  Not many prognosticators gave the Cowboys much of a chance against the G-Men, but the crystal ball took a chance on them.  The ‘Boys rewarded the crystal ball, and pulled off the upset.  Let’s review and see what happened last week.

Continue reading "Week 15 Review"

Hey Guys!

As you're all aware of by now, the 49ers lost a winnable game at Miami. After the loss, the commentators and analysts like to describe the Dolphins win as a "smart" win. They keep saying things like: "They play smart football", or "The way they play the game is the smart way". This is characterized by their method of scoring early, comitting few turnovers, playing good defense, and winning the "Field Position Game". 

Continue reading ""Field Position Game"? Either Way, 49ers lose"

 

           Last night, on NBC’s prime time Sunday Night Football, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the New York Giants, 20-8.  The Cowboys desperately needed the win, as they are fighting for their playoff lives.  The Cowboys are now 9-5, but so are the Vikings, the Bucs, and the Falcons.  The Eagles and Bears aren’t that far behind either.  With the Cowboys facing the Ravens and the Eagles in their next two games, the ‘Boys needed a win…desperately.

Continue reading "Sack-alicious"

 

           Each week I will answer questions submitted by my loyal readers.  I personally read every single email I receive.  I will pick out the best five or so to use for the weekly post, as I won’t be able to answer all of them.  I will also answer one or two questions on my daily posts as well.  Now it’s time to open the mail!

Continue reading "Reality Mail Bag - 12/12/08"

Next Tuesday the NFL Network will announce the AFC and NFC Pro Bowl teams. Unlike last year, there won't be as many Patriot players sprinkled throughout the roster, but that doesn't mean there are no deserving players on the team. Of course I'm a homer, but I'll try to exercise a bit of common sense and select players who should be on the AFC team:

Continue reading "Pro Bowl Pats"

Dear Santa,

I know it's been a while since I've written to you, and I'm sorry about forgetting to put out milk and cookies the couple Christmases, but this year I really need your help. As you're probably aware due to all the New England Patriots schwag you've delivered to my house over the years, I'm quite a big fan of the team.

Continue reading "All I Want for Christmas is the Patriots ..."

“A good leader inspires people to have confidence in the leader, a great leader inspires people to have confidence in themselves”

A Quarterback is usually the unquestioned leader of a football team. When Dan Marino retired, the fins for once in a long time lacked a strong leader, many tried to fill his shoes, (Huard, Fiedler, Griese, Lucas, Feeley, Frerotte, Rosenfels, Harrington, Culpepper, Green, and Lemon) all failed. Some can argue that Jay Fiedler was the best of that list, I beg to differ. Fiedler’s inadequacies were masked by a strong ground game, when that ground game disappeared his true leadership ability showed through.

Continue reading "LEADERSHIP"

     The votes have been tabulated. The computers have crunched the numbers. The craziness that is the NCAA college football regular season is over and the bowl match-ups have been chosen.

Continue reading "BCS- NOT BOTS!!! The Humans Are To ..."

 

           Each week, on Friday, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend’s games.  I will always prognosticate on the Eagles and Cowboys games and then pick two more games of interest (to me, that is, not necessarily to you).  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!

Continue reading "Predictions Week 14"

     As the NFL reaches the last quarter of the season, fantasy owners are positioning themselves for the playoffs. AS the fantasy playoffs begin, quality free agent pick-ups could be the boost that your team needs to climb to the top of the mountain. So, as we do each week, we are providing fantasy football players with the best information in the most interesting format possible. So, enjoy your viewing of this video that is sure to bring you what you need and remind you of things that you want.

Continue reading "NFL Injury Report by the Fantasy Sportsgirls"

Continue reading "Week 14 Pick'ems"

 

           Each week I will answer questions submitted by my loyal readers.  I personally read every single email I receive.  I will pick out the best five or so to use for the weekly post, as I wont be able to answer all of them.  I will also answer one or two questions on my daily posts as well.  Now it’s time to open the mail!

Continue reading "Reality Mail Bag - 12/04/08"

As bad as that loss to the Steelers was, I hope for a rematch.

 

Yes, Pittsburgh out-everythinged the Patriots on Sunday. It was a completely convincing win. The Steelers showed why they rank first in a handful of defensive categories. We saw first hand why they are the best team in the AFC.

Continue reading "Another Shot at the Steelers for the Patriots"

Wow, what a difference a year makes. At this time last year, Dolphins fans were still hoping for their team's first win of the season. It was a horrible season that tested the very heart of a TRUE FIN FAN! Then came possibly the best hiring decision owner Wayne Huizenga has ever made. Hiring Bill Parcells as V.P. of Football operations.

Continue reading "What a Difference a Year Makes!"

 

The crystal ball had a stellar week by going undefeated at 4-0.  That puts the crystal ball at 23-20-1 for the season.  That’s three games over .500 (.534 to be exact).  The crystal ball has a slightly sore back this week.  You know…with all that patting itself on the back stuff!  Let’s review and see what happened last week.

Continue reading "Week 13 Review"

The local airwaves today were full of speculation about the Ravens' chances on wresting the division title from the Steelers. Frankly, I don't see it happening. If we get in, it's going to be as a wild card --- in fact, there's an outside chance that a 12-4 record will be rewarded with the number 6 seed, while the Broncos win the AFC West at 8-8. But there's no point in bellyaching about that --- in 2003 the 12-4 Titans visited the 10-6 Ravens in the first round of the playoffs, and we all know how that one turned out.

Continue reading "Baltimore Ravens playoff chances"

People seem to like the New York Jets to beat the Denver Broncos with ease.  I suppose this is a bit of an obvious bet, which is usually a good reason not to bet it. 

 

The Broncos defense is so bad it cannot be counted on to force a single punt all day.  They just got done losing to the Oakland Raiders in Denver, so that certainly does its part in creating a bad image for the Broncos.

Continue reading "NFL Week 13 Musings"

Good thing about Sundays is all the talk stops. It's put up or shut up time.

Yeah, that's a direct stab at Pittsburgh Steelers reserve safety Anthony Smith. I repeat: Reservesafety Anthony Smith. He esentially guaranteed a win over the Patriots, the second year in a row he's made that promise.

Continue reading "Hours Before Kickoff: Week 13"

 

           Each week, on Friday, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend games.  I will always prognosticate on the Eagles and Cowboys games and then pick two more games of interest (to me, that is, not necessarily to you).  Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling.  That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!

Continue reading "Predictions Week 13"

The 2008 NFL season has proven to be one of great disparity in comparison to last season. Different teams lie atop the standings with the exception of one, the New York "Football" Giants. Last season, these same Giants shocked the world when they made it into the playoffs as a Wild Card birth, and finished as Super Bowl champions. Their win ushered in changing of the guard, power-wise, for the NFC as a whole. This is definitely seen when looking at the bottom of the standings for this 2008 season. Now, I know what you are thinking; why look at the bottom of the standings?? This reasoning will be become evident as you read further.

Continue reading "AFC vs. NFC - Has the power in the ..."

The crystal ball had a mediocre week, to say the least.  The crystal ball went 2-2 for the week, and is now 19-20-1 for the season.  That’s just slightly under .500 (.488 to be exact).  We need to give it props for predicting the upset of the year (in my opinion).  On the other hand, we must chastise it for the debacle in Denver.  Let’s review what happened.

Continue reading "Week 12 Review"

It was a must-win for the Patriots and thank Belichick we have Matt Cassel. Holy crap, I never thought I'd type those words but welcome to 2008. It still doesn't make me miss Tom Brady any less.

Continue reading "Patriots-Dolphins: Notes on the Taming ..."