Sunday, October 14th is the perfect setting for what promises to be an epic battle. The New England Patriots travel to play the Dallas Cowboys at Texas Stadium. Tickets for this contest start at $300 on the market and go up to as much as $16,000 for a "crown suite." Check it out for yourself...
New England Patriots at Dallas Cowboys Tickets 10/14
The matchup itself is a battle of 5-0 unbeatens, and two of the three undefeated teams. What do various news outlets have to say about the game?
ESPN:
It's a battle of unbeatens ... and a potential preview of Super Bowl XLII. It's T.O. vs. Moss, Romo vs. Brady. It's 5-0 New England vs. 5-0 Dallas on Sunday at Texas Stadium (4:15 p.m. ET).
On Sunday, the Patriots and Cowboys will meet in one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. Both teams enter the game undefeated, and many believe this early-season meeting could prove to be a preview of Super Bowl XLII.
So far this season the Cowboys have established themselves the class of the NFC, thanks to the play of Tony Romo and a very strong offense. While New England's potent start, largely a result of a brilliant Tom Brady and resurgent Randy Moss, has many people believing the Patriots could be the first team to go undefeated in a season, since the 1972 Dolphins.
Sports Ilustrated:
IRVING, Texas (AP) -Excuse Tom Brady and the New England Patriots for wondering what all the fuss is about.
Sure, they find it interesting their game Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys is just the fifth in NFL history between unbeaten teams with at least five wins. However, they were part of the last such meeting.
The Patriots also can appreciate all the star power that will be on display: Brady and Randy Moss on their side, Tony Romo and Terrell Owens on the other, both at the top of the NFL scoring list.
But, c'mon. This is October. The Red Sox play meaningful, historic games this time of year, not the Patriots. The only dates circled on New England's calendar are the trip to Indianapolis in three weeks and an expected trip to Arizona in February.
"It's another regular-season game for us and there have been a lot of big games around here,'' Brady said. "I don't think we're building this to anything more than it really is, which is another game on our schedule. It's another game that we're hoping to play our best and make improvements.''
That's certainly not the perspective in Dallas.
From players to fans, anyone aligned with the Cowboys sees this as a tantalizing matchup, a chance to show that "America's Team'' is headed back to the top. With Romo leading them to their best start since 1983, this game should show whether they're as good as they think they are.
Even impartial observers are calling this a possible Super Bowl preview. If nothing else, it will show how the NFC's best stacks up against one of the AFC's big boys.
"This is one of those games you dream about,'' Dallas linebacker Bradie James said. "To get to where those guys have been, we've got to beat these guys, the guys who are considered the best.''
This is easily the Cowboys' most anticipated regular-season game at Texas Stadium since 1995, when the San Francisco 49ers visited in a matchup of teams that had met in the previous three NFC title games and combined to win the last three Super Bowls. San Francisco won that game; Dallas went on to win that season's Super Bowl.
Cowboys home games are known for the hole in the roof and the cheerleaders, not for boisterous fans. But the parking lot will open six hours before kickoff and the turnstiles three hours early, obvious invitations for folks to get into the spirit - and into the liquid spirits - in plenty of time to create an atmosphere that lives up to the caliber of these teams.
"This is why you work so hard, why you do all the things you do in the offseason, to get to this point so you can play in big games,'' Romo said. "That's what makes it fun. It will be a really enjoyable experience either way.''
Romo and Brady are an interesting pair.
Draft-day afterthoughts who had to work their way up the pecking order, both ousted Drew Bledsoe to get their job and have never looked back. Both also will be marking statistical milestones Sunday: regular-season start No. 100 for Brady, No. 16 for Romo, marking the equivalent of his first full season.
Since Romo's ascent this time last year, he's thrown for the most yards in the NFL. He has the second-most TD passes, one behind Brady. Throw in the celebrity status that Brady has and Romo is fast approaching, and it's surprising they hardly know each other, having met briefly this past offseason.
"It wasn't a big thing,'' Romo said. "It was just normal, two guys talking.''
Another similarity is the defensive challenge the quarterbacks are about to face.
Knowing New England coach Bill Belichick's reputation for designing confusing schemes, Romo spent the week plotting how he can avoid getting fooled. Playing such mind games could be risky for a guy who threw five interceptions and lost a fumble in his last outing.
Brady is leery because he's struggled the two times he's faced a defense run by Cowboys coach Wade Phillips, completing only 54 percent of his passes with four interceptions and three touchdowns. Brady, however, still managed to lead the Pats past Phillips and the San Diego Chargers in the playoffs last season.
Phillips' unit isn't as ferocious as the one he left behind, but the Cowboys are getting there. The defense has given up only a field goal over the last two games and only one touchdown in three games.
The flip side is that Brady's supporting cast is better this season, starting with Moss - the guy Owens had in mind when he offered his version of "no comment'' about this game, a sign taped to his locker that mentioned "the original 81 and the other 81.''
T.O., of course, considers himself the original, and only partly because he wore the number first.
Owens leads Moss 2-1 in head-to-head meetings, but Moss had the most spectacular performance, a 172-yard, three-touchdown show for Minnesota in 2003 that left Owens muttering, "He's the best.'' Moss has plenty more highlight clips from games against the Cowboys, especially at Texas Stadium.
Moss is coming off his first game without a touchdown or 100 yards, but Owens has only five catches for 58 yards over the last two games. Owens has gone three straight without a touchdown. If the Cowboys hadn't pulled out an amazing finish Monday night in Buffalo, his drops of some key passes would be a bigger story this week.
"He's going to be very motivated,'' tight end Jason Witten said. "He wants to be the best on the field at all times. Obviously he's got a huge challenge this week. We're going to need him to play big and come alive.''
Slowing Moss will be especially tough for a banged-up Dallas secondary. Terence Newman has the speed, but he's nursing foot and knee injuries. Anthony Henry has the size, but he missed the last game with a high ankle sprain and isn't expected to play.
From quarterbacks to receivers, coaches to even the owners (Jerry Jones and Robert Kraft, each with three Super Bowls and hoping for a fourth this season), everyone has bragging rights on the line Sunday.
Oddsmakers are leaning toward New England. History leans toward Dallas, as the home team is 3-0-1 in previous matchups of teams 5-0 or better.
Like Owens said in the postscript on his sign, "Getcha popcorn ready.''
I'll have my popcorn ready, tickets too!
Showing posts with label new england patriots. Show all posts
Showing posts with label new england patriots. Show all posts
Thursday, October 11, 2007
NFL Injury Report - NFL Injury Report For Wednesday October 11 2007
From NFL Media.com
Following is a list of injured players for Week 6 Games (October 14-15):
CAROLINA PANTHERS at ARIZONA CARDINALS
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB David Carr (back), RB Nick Goings (concussion), CB Ken Lucas (shoulder), LB Dan Morgan (ankle), LB Adam Seward (calf)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
LB James Anderson (thigh)
ARIZONA CARDINALS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Anquan Boldin (hip), WR Bryant Johnson (quadricep)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
T Levi Brown (ankle)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DE Joe Tafoya (hamstring)
CINCINNATI BENGALS at KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
T Willie Anderson (knee), LB Rashad Jeanty (shin), S Ethan Kilmer (knee), WR Tab Perry (hip)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
LB Ahmad Brooks (groin), DE Jonathan Fanene (knee), RB Rudi Johnson (hamstring), LB Caleb Miller (back)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
S Dexter Jackson (illness), DE Frostee Rucker (hand), C Alex Stepanovich (knee)
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Eddie Kennison (hamstring), S Greg Wesley (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Dimitri Patterson (hamstring)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), QB Damon Huard (right shoulder), CB Benny Sapp (ankle), T Kyle Turley (ankle)
HOUSTON TEXANS at JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
HOUSTON TEXANS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Andre Johnson (knee), LB DeMeco Ryans (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
K Kris Brown (left foot), DT Travis Johnson (knee), WR Jacoby Jones (shoulder), DE Ndukwe Kalu (hand)
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
K Josh Scobee (right quadricep)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
TE George Wrighster (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
G Chris Naeole (knee)
MIAMI DOLPHINS at CLEVELAND BROWNS
MIAMI DOLPHINS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Trent Green (concussion), WR Derek Hagan (hamstring), DT Vonnie Holliday (ankle), C Samson Satele (neck), S Travares Tillman (knee), DT Rodrique Wright (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DE Jason Taylor (neck)
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
TE Darnell Dinkins (hand), RB Jamal Lewis (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
RB Charles Ali (toe), S Gary Baxter (knees), WR Joe Jurevicius (knee), S Brodney Pool (thigh), TE Kellen Winslow (shoulder)
MINNESOTA VIKINGS at CHICAGO BEARS
MINNESOTA VIKINGS
Practice Report
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Tarvaris Jackson (groin), LB Ben Leber (ribs), S Dwight Smith (hamstring)
CHICAGO BEARS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Bernard Berrian (toe), DT Tommie Harris (knee), T John Tait (ankle), CB Charles Tillman (ankle), CB Nathan Vasher (groin), DT Darwin Walker (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
G Ruben Brown (shoulder)
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS at DALLAS COWBOYS
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
T Wesley Britt (team decision), S Mel Mitchell (groin)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Tom Brady (right shoulder), CB Randall Gay (thigh), C Dan Koppen (ankle), RB Laurence Maroney (groin), G Steve Neal (shoulder), CB Asante Samuel (foot), WR Donte' Stallworth (knee), LB Adalius Thomas (ankle), WR Kelley Washington (hamstring)
DALLAS COWBOYS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
WR Terry Glenn (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Anthony Henry (ankle)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Courtney Brown (biceps), LB Kevin Burnett (thigh), S Keith Davis (shoulder), RB Oliver Hoyte (neck)
OAKLAND RAIDERS at SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
OAKLAND RAIDERS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Josh McCown (toe), DT Gerard Warren (quadricep)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DE Derrick Burgess (calf), LB Isaiah Ekejiuba (foot), RB LaMont Jordan (back)
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
WR Eric Parker (toe), RB Andrew Pinnock (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Vincent Jackson (shoulder), LB Brandon Siler (back), DT Jamal Williams (coaches decision)
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES at NEW YORK JETS
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
S Brian Dawkins (neck), G Todd Herremans (knee), T Tra Thomas (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Greg Lewis (ankle)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Lito Sheppard (knee), TE L.J. Smith (hernia), RB Brian Westbrook (abdomen)
NEW YORK JETS
Practice Report
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
T Anthony Clement (thigh), S Erik Coleman (concussion), WR Laveranues Coles (knee), DE Shaun Ellis (foot), WR Justin McCareins (ankle), QB Chad Pennington (ankle), DT Dewayne Robertson (knee), S Eric Smith (thigh)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
RB Darian Barnes (thigh), TE Jason Pociask (back)
ST. LOUIS RAMS at BALTIMORE RAVENS
ST. LOUIS RAMS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
RB Steven Jackson (groin), WR Dane Looker (thigh), LB Raonall Smith (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Isaac Bruce (hamstring), WR Dante' Hall (ankle), WR Torry Holt (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Marc Bulger (ribs), S Corey Chavous (pectoral), DE James Hall (pectoral)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Gus Frerotte (ankle), CB Tye Hill (back), S Todd Johnson (neck)
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
DT Trevor Pryce (wrist)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Derrick Mason (illness), T Adam Terry (ankle), TE Daniel Wilcox (toe)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
C Mike Flynn (knee), TE Todd Heap (thigh), T Jonathan Ogden (toe), CB Samari Rolle (illness), LB Gary Stills (knee)
TENNESSEE TITANS at TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
TENNESSEE TITANS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DT Albert Haynesworth (ankle), WR Brandon Jones (knee), G Benji Olson (team decision)
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
RB Michael Pittman (ankle)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Brian Kelly (groin)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Joey Galloway (team decision), LB Barrett Ruud (knee), DE Greg White (shoulder)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder)
WASHINGTON REDSKINS at GREEN BAY PACKERS
WASHINGTON REDSKINS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
G Randy Thomas (triceps)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DE Phillip Daniels (shoulder), WR Antwaan Randle El (hamstring), RB Mike Sellers (heel), LB Marcus Washington (hamstring)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Santana Moss (groin)
GREEN BAY PACKERS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
CB Will Blackmon (foot), C Scott Wells (eye)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
T Chad Clifton (knee), TE Bubba Franks (knee), CB Al Harris (back), WR Greg Jennings (shoulder), DE Mike Montgomery (knee), RB Vernand Morency (team decision), CB Charles Woodson (foot)
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS at SEATTLE SEAHAWKS on Sunday night
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Jason David (forearm), K Olindo Mare (right groin)
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
WR Deion Branch (foot), T Ray Willis (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DT Rocky Bernard (groin), WR D.J. Hackett (ankle), TE Marcus Pollard (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Josh Wilson (ankle)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
RB Shaun Alexander (wrist)
NEW YORK GIANTS at ATLANTA FALCONS on Monday night
NEW YORK GIANTS
Practice Report
Wednesday Team did not practice
ATLANTA FALCONS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
T Todd Weiner (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
LB Keith Brooking (hamstring), TE Alge Crumpler (knee), LB Stephen Nicholas (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DT Jonathan Babineaux (knee), TE Dwayne Blakley (pectoral), DT Roderick Coleman (knee), S Chris Crocker (knee), CB Lewis Sanders (shoulder)
Following is a list of injured players for Week 6 Games (October 14-15):
CAROLINA PANTHERS at ARIZONA CARDINALS
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB David Carr (back), RB Nick Goings (concussion), CB Ken Lucas (shoulder), LB Dan Morgan (ankle), LB Adam Seward (calf)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
LB James Anderson (thigh)
ARIZONA CARDINALS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Anquan Boldin (hip), WR Bryant Johnson (quadricep)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
T Levi Brown (ankle)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DE Joe Tafoya (hamstring)
CINCINNATI BENGALS at KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
T Willie Anderson (knee), LB Rashad Jeanty (shin), S Ethan Kilmer (knee), WR Tab Perry (hip)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
LB Ahmad Brooks (groin), DE Jonathan Fanene (knee), RB Rudi Johnson (hamstring), LB Caleb Miller (back)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
S Dexter Jackson (illness), DE Frostee Rucker (hand), C Alex Stepanovich (knee)
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Eddie Kennison (hamstring), S Greg Wesley (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Dimitri Patterson (hamstring)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), QB Damon Huard (right shoulder), CB Benny Sapp (ankle), T Kyle Turley (ankle)
HOUSTON TEXANS at JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
HOUSTON TEXANS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Andre Johnson (knee), LB DeMeco Ryans (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
K Kris Brown (left foot), DT Travis Johnson (knee), WR Jacoby Jones (shoulder), DE Ndukwe Kalu (hand)
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
K Josh Scobee (right quadricep)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
TE George Wrighster (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
G Chris Naeole (knee)
MIAMI DOLPHINS at CLEVELAND BROWNS
MIAMI DOLPHINS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Trent Green (concussion), WR Derek Hagan (hamstring), DT Vonnie Holliday (ankle), C Samson Satele (neck), S Travares Tillman (knee), DT Rodrique Wright (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DE Jason Taylor (neck)
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
TE Darnell Dinkins (hand), RB Jamal Lewis (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
RB Charles Ali (toe), S Gary Baxter (knees), WR Joe Jurevicius (knee), S Brodney Pool (thigh), TE Kellen Winslow (shoulder)
MINNESOTA VIKINGS at CHICAGO BEARS
MINNESOTA VIKINGS
Practice Report
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Tarvaris Jackson (groin), LB Ben Leber (ribs), S Dwight Smith (hamstring)
CHICAGO BEARS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Bernard Berrian (toe), DT Tommie Harris (knee), T John Tait (ankle), CB Charles Tillman (ankle), CB Nathan Vasher (groin), DT Darwin Walker (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
G Ruben Brown (shoulder)
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS at DALLAS COWBOYS
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
T Wesley Britt (team decision), S Mel Mitchell (groin)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Tom Brady (right shoulder), CB Randall Gay (thigh), C Dan Koppen (ankle), RB Laurence Maroney (groin), G Steve Neal (shoulder), CB Asante Samuel (foot), WR Donte' Stallworth (knee), LB Adalius Thomas (ankle), WR Kelley Washington (hamstring)
DALLAS COWBOYS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
WR Terry Glenn (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Anthony Henry (ankle)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Courtney Brown (biceps), LB Kevin Burnett (thigh), S Keith Davis (shoulder), RB Oliver Hoyte (neck)
OAKLAND RAIDERS at SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
OAKLAND RAIDERS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Josh McCown (toe), DT Gerard Warren (quadricep)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DE Derrick Burgess (calf), LB Isaiah Ekejiuba (foot), RB LaMont Jordan (back)
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
WR Eric Parker (toe), RB Andrew Pinnock (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Vincent Jackson (shoulder), LB Brandon Siler (back), DT Jamal Williams (coaches decision)
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES at NEW YORK JETS
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
S Brian Dawkins (neck), G Todd Herremans (knee), T Tra Thomas (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Greg Lewis (ankle)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Lito Sheppard (knee), TE L.J. Smith (hernia), RB Brian Westbrook (abdomen)
NEW YORK JETS
Practice Report
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
T Anthony Clement (thigh), S Erik Coleman (concussion), WR Laveranues Coles (knee), DE Shaun Ellis (foot), WR Justin McCareins (ankle), QB Chad Pennington (ankle), DT Dewayne Robertson (knee), S Eric Smith (thigh)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
RB Darian Barnes (thigh), TE Jason Pociask (back)
ST. LOUIS RAMS at BALTIMORE RAVENS
ST. LOUIS RAMS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
RB Steven Jackson (groin), WR Dane Looker (thigh), LB Raonall Smith (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Isaac Bruce (hamstring), WR Dante' Hall (ankle), WR Torry Holt (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Marc Bulger (ribs), S Corey Chavous (pectoral), DE James Hall (pectoral)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
QB Gus Frerotte (ankle), CB Tye Hill (back), S Todd Johnson (neck)
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
DT Trevor Pryce (wrist)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Derrick Mason (illness), T Adam Terry (ankle), TE Daniel Wilcox (toe)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
C Mike Flynn (knee), TE Todd Heap (thigh), T Jonathan Ogden (toe), CB Samari Rolle (illness), LB Gary Stills (knee)
TENNESSEE TITANS at TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
TENNESSEE TITANS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DT Albert Haynesworth (ankle), WR Brandon Jones (knee), G Benji Olson (team decision)
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
RB Michael Pittman (ankle)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Brian Kelly (groin)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Joey Galloway (team decision), LB Barrett Ruud (knee), DE Greg White (shoulder)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder)
WASHINGTON REDSKINS at GREEN BAY PACKERS
WASHINGTON REDSKINS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
G Randy Thomas (triceps)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DE Phillip Daniels (shoulder), WR Antwaan Randle El (hamstring), RB Mike Sellers (heel), LB Marcus Washington (hamstring)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
WR Santana Moss (groin)
GREEN BAY PACKERS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
CB Will Blackmon (foot), C Scott Wells (eye)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
T Chad Clifton (knee), TE Bubba Franks (knee), CB Al Harris (back), WR Greg Jennings (shoulder), DE Mike Montgomery (knee), RB Vernand Morency (team decision), CB Charles Woodson (foot)
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS at SEATTLE SEAHAWKS on Sunday night
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Practice Report
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Jason David (forearm), K Olindo Mare (right groin)
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
WR Deion Branch (foot), T Ray Willis (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DT Rocky Bernard (groin), WR D.J. Hackett (ankle), TE Marcus Pollard (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
CB Josh Wilson (ankle)
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
RB Shaun Alexander (wrist)
NEW YORK GIANTS at ATLANTA FALCONS on Monday night
NEW YORK GIANTS
Practice Report
Wednesday Team did not practice
ATLANTA FALCONS
Practice Report
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)
Wednesday
T Todd Weiner (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
LB Keith Brooking (hamstring), TE Alge Crumpler (knee), LB Stephen Nicholas (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE
Wednesday
DT Jonathan Babineaux (knee), TE Dwayne Blakley (pectoral), DT Roderick Coleman (knee), S Chris Crocker (knee), CB Lewis Sanders (shoulder)
Saturday, September 29, 2007
New England Patriots Sued For "Deceiving Customers"
Over at our NFL Business Blog, David Kaye reports that a fan is suing the New England Patriots for "deceiving customers" in the wake of their cheating scandal.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Condoning Cheating? - NFL Coaches Unfairly Treating Jets Coach Eric Mangini
Profootballtalk.com and The New York Times report today that several NFL Coaches and executives are working to gang-up on New York Jets Head Coach Eric Mangini for blowing the whistle on New England Coach Bill Belichek for telling NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell that the Pats vidoed defensive signals from opposing teams, a violation of NFL rules.
Selena Roberts of the NY Times writes:
Mangini didn’t just flip on Belichick, costing his former mentor a celebrated image that has been reflected in a shelf-full of Lombardi Trophies, as well as a $500,000 fine and a prime draft pick. He did more. He also humiliated the respected Patriots owner and league power player Robert K. Kraft.
That sin has left Mangini toxic to some team executives. After all, would you trust him? Is there anyone — a player, assistant, general manager, owner or mascot — that he wouldn’t betray in a pinch?
Mike Florio of Profootballtalk.com reports:
The reality, however, is that Mangini has likely learned his lesson, and that he knows that he has pulled the trigger on a one-shot pistol. But this doesn't change the fact that no NFL executive could justify taking the risk that Mangini might offer up a sequel.
Meanwhile, Mangini might have problems keeping the job he currently has. As one league insider opined on Tuesday:
"The biggest issue that Mangini faces is that his team absolutely stinks. One of the problems with being a surprise team is that you can't surprise anyone anymore. They won't win more than six games this year. The Ravens tried to hand the game to the Jets after dominating for three quarters and the Jets refused to take it. The offensive line is awful, the defensive line is terrible, the running back is old, the wideouts drop passes, and the secondary is beat up. The Patriots will win that division by five or six games, easy. That, more than anything, is going to put heat on Mangini."
Wait. That's not right. It points to the observation that some NFL execs may have actually known that New England was cheating and kept quiet; indeed, if Mangini himself knew this, and talked, then how many other people knew? It doesn't make the NFL look good at all, and with these latest headlines, sends up more smoke, implying there's a fire burning somewhere in the league.
This matter of punishing Mangini as whistle-blower also opens another question -- at least in my mind. Why does the NFL allow a double-standard to exist, where players transgressions are blurted out to the public with abandon, and there's no threat of backlash by NFL team execs, but when it comes to the matter of an NFL coach like Bill Belichek, this invisible protective shield is thrown up?
It's not right. The Commissioner should release a statement warning the league's execs of punishment if such statements are made in the future. I personally dislike this aspect of how the NFL functions. Yes, Bill Belichek's a great coach, and while he should not have done what he did, and his overall record is somewhat tainted, he's got three Super Bowl trophies, and that didn't come just from hard-to-get videos.
But look at the facts -- the Pats have won some very close games in Super Bowl history. It's fair to ask if the video practice was used prior to each Super Bowl the Pats were in under Belichek. I'm not saying take his awards away, but the way they were gotten is under scrutiny.
That process of investigation must begin. But meanwhile, leave Eric Mangini alone. I'm certain he got tired of being well-prepared for New England only to have his hat handed to him by a too-well-prepared Patriots team, and knowing how they got ready to play, and what they did during the game steamed him.
Enough was enough.
Selena Roberts of the NY Times writes:
Mangini didn’t just flip on Belichick, costing his former mentor a celebrated image that has been reflected in a shelf-full of Lombardi Trophies, as well as a $500,000 fine and a prime draft pick. He did more. He also humiliated the respected Patriots owner and league power player Robert K. Kraft.
That sin has left Mangini toxic to some team executives. After all, would you trust him? Is there anyone — a player, assistant, general manager, owner or mascot — that he wouldn’t betray in a pinch?
Mike Florio of Profootballtalk.com reports:
The reality, however, is that Mangini has likely learned his lesson, and that he knows that he has pulled the trigger on a one-shot pistol. But this doesn't change the fact that no NFL executive could justify taking the risk that Mangini might offer up a sequel.
Meanwhile, Mangini might have problems keeping the job he currently has. As one league insider opined on Tuesday:
"The biggest issue that Mangini faces is that his team absolutely stinks. One of the problems with being a surprise team is that you can't surprise anyone anymore. They won't win more than six games this year. The Ravens tried to hand the game to the Jets after dominating for three quarters and the Jets refused to take it. The offensive line is awful, the defensive line is terrible, the running back is old, the wideouts drop passes, and the secondary is beat up. The Patriots will win that division by five or six games, easy. That, more than anything, is going to put heat on Mangini."
Wait. That's not right. It points to the observation that some NFL execs may have actually known that New England was cheating and kept quiet; indeed, if Mangini himself knew this, and talked, then how many other people knew? It doesn't make the NFL look good at all, and with these latest headlines, sends up more smoke, implying there's a fire burning somewhere in the league.
This matter of punishing Mangini as whistle-blower also opens another question -- at least in my mind. Why does the NFL allow a double-standard to exist, where players transgressions are blurted out to the public with abandon, and there's no threat of backlash by NFL team execs, but when it comes to the matter of an NFL coach like Bill Belichek, this invisible protective shield is thrown up?
It's not right. The Commissioner should release a statement warning the league's execs of punishment if such statements are made in the future. I personally dislike this aspect of how the NFL functions. Yes, Bill Belichek's a great coach, and while he should not have done what he did, and his overall record is somewhat tainted, he's got three Super Bowl trophies, and that didn't come just from hard-to-get videos.
But look at the facts -- the Pats have won some very close games in Super Bowl history. It's fair to ask if the video practice was used prior to each Super Bowl the Pats were in under Belichek. I'm not saying take his awards away, but the way they were gotten is under scrutiny.
That process of investigation must begin. But meanwhile, leave Eric Mangini alone. I'm certain he got tired of being well-prepared for New England only to have his hat handed to him by a too-well-prepared Patriots team, and knowing how they got ready to play, and what they did during the game steamed him.
Enough was enough.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Goodell with Costas: if more"Illegalities" come to light, the penalty will be higher!
Those of us who got home from th Giants Vs.Packers excuse for an NFL game got to relax with "Football night in America." We had the Pleasure of watching Bob Costas interview Mr. Goodell. He spoke eloquently for most of a quarter of an hour about crime and punishment. Not about Mike Vick or Tank Johnson or even David Boston, But about a Coach who had been caught stealing signals from the sidelines of opposing teams via video camera, and an assistant Coach who was found guilty of using a controlled substance. Both men were fined, but was the punishment just in both cases?
I'm not saying if both men deserved to be punished, i'm asking if both punishments were leveled correctly....
Coach Belachick earned a 500,000 personal fine. Thats like hitting me with a $.25 fine for spitting. His salary is around 8 million dollars a year. So 500K comes out to about 6.25% of his yearly salary. This is just punishment?? He SHOULD be suspended for the remainder of the season, as well as the Team losing BOTH First round draft picks! Why? Because he cheated, and it shouldn't be tolerated. On to Coach Wade Wilson, the Cowboys QB coach.
he claimed he took Steroids for his Diabetic condition"to improve the Quality of his life." While i can relate to that being a diabetic myself, if you are in a job that has certain rules about what you can and can not take medically. weather you are a coach or player, you have to follow those rules. Ok, so Coach Wilson took HGH(probably to improve the Quality of his "adult" functions), and was caught. He agreed to cooperate with the legal investigation.
Sure, he should be punished, but should that punishment be almost one third of his 325K a year salary?? Because his actions were criminal, but did not Hurt another person(meaning Not Punitive in nature) just maybe $100.000 is a bit excessive here....I barely Make 1/6th of Coach Wilson's Salary, and if you took away one third of that I'd throw a royal fit. Wade Wilson has a right to question the punishment leveled at him, but not weather he should be punished.
If the Head Coach of a professional Football team needs to "collect" Data on other Coaches' signals,..it's time for him to get out of the game. If I were Patriots owner Bob Kraft, knowing that he is the Orthodox Jewish man that he is, I would simply terminate the Coach and Hire someone else 10 minutes ago!
I'm not saying if both men deserved to be punished, i'm asking if both punishments were leveled correctly....
Coach Belachick earned a 500,000 personal fine. Thats like hitting me with a $.25 fine for spitting. His salary is around 8 million dollars a year. So 500K comes out to about 6.25% of his yearly salary. This is just punishment?? He SHOULD be suspended for the remainder of the season, as well as the Team losing BOTH First round draft picks! Why? Because he cheated, and it shouldn't be tolerated. On to Coach Wade Wilson, the Cowboys QB coach.
he claimed he took Steroids for his Diabetic condition"to improve the Quality of his life." While i can relate to that being a diabetic myself, if you are in a job that has certain rules about what you can and can not take medically. weather you are a coach or player, you have to follow those rules. Ok, so Coach Wilson took HGH(probably to improve the Quality of his "adult" functions), and was caught. He agreed to cooperate with the legal investigation.
Sure, he should be punished, but should that punishment be almost one third of his 325K a year salary?? Because his actions were criminal, but did not Hurt another person(meaning Not Punitive in nature) just maybe $100.000 is a bit excessive here....I barely Make 1/6th of Coach Wilson's Salary, and if you took away one third of that I'd throw a royal fit. Wade Wilson has a right to question the punishment leveled at him, but not weather he should be punished.
If the Head Coach of a professional Football team needs to "collect" Data on other Coaches' signals,..it's time for him to get out of the game. If I were Patriots owner Bob Kraft, knowing that he is the Orthodox Jewish man that he is, I would simply terminate the Coach and Hire someone else 10 minutes ago!
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Pats Bill Belichick issues Apology, says he's spoken with Goodell
Belichick issues apology, says he's spoken with Goodell
ESPN.com news services
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- This videotape needs no interpretation: New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick walked out of his news conference on Wednesday when pressed repeatedly about the sideline spying scandal that landed him on NFL commissioner Roger Goodell's crowded docket.
Ten minutes before his regular availability, Belichick issued a one-paragraph statement apologizing to his team and confirming that he has spoken to Goodell about an "interpretation" of league rules that ban videotaping of the opposing sideline.
"Although it remains a league matter, I want to apologize to everyone who has been affected, most of all ownership, staff and players," Belichick said. "Following the league's decision, I will have further comment."
It was not clear whether Belichick was apologizing for his actions or the distraction it has caused his team as it prepares for Sunday night's marquee game against San Diego. But if he thought -- or even hoped -- that the standing-room crowd of media was there to talk about the Chargers, he failed to prepare in the manner that has made him one of the most successful coaches in the history of the league.
Never one to relish his interactions with the media, Belichick grimly refused to respond to a half-dozen questions about the scandal, possible punishments and the potential effect on his team. Begging for a football question, he seemed ready to abort the news conference after just a few minutes at the podium.
Cheatwave
In August, ESPN.com ran a comprehensive package on cheating in sports. Jeffri Chadiha wrote the NFL portion of the package. Among the ways NFL coaches try to gain an advantage was trying to descramble signals sent from coach to player:
"When Marty Schottenheimer coached the Cleveland Browns in the late 1980s, he routinely sent a scout to watch the signals opposing teams used to relay messages from coaches to players. When the scout returned, Schottenheimer's staff would watch the game film and match the signals to the plays that followed.
"[Herm] Edwards said the same is true today. It's common for coaches to watch standard game tapes [which include shots from the press box and end zone angles], sideline tapes [which usually wind up on highlight shows and include footage of players and coaches talking on the sidelines] and even the television shows of opposing coaches for tips."
"Any questions about the Chargers?" he pleaded in his standard, other-things-to-do monotone. "Want to talk about the football game? If not, I think that statement pretty much covers it."
It appeared that there were none, before one reporter asked about Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson.
The prospect of defending against the reigning NFL offensive player of the year is not the sort of thing that usually cheers up opposing coaches.
But Belichick smiled.
"I think the Chargers are a concern. Their football team is a concern. That's what we're concerned about," he said. "Whatever happens out there Sunday night, out there on the field, that's when everybody will make their statement."
After another 15 minutes of football questions, though, the subject returned to the spying scandal.
"Is there any other question on the Chargers?" Belichick said before walking out. "OK. Yep. That's all. OK. Thank you."
NFL security confiscated a video camera and tape from Patriots video assistant Matt Estrella on Sunday when he was working on the New York Jets' sideline during New England's 38-14 victory. The league has confirmed that it is investigating whether the Patriots were taping the Jets' defensive coaches as they signaled to players on the field.
However, league sources told ESPN's Chris Mortensen that Goodell has already determined that the Patriots have violated league rules when they videotaped defensive signals by the Jets' coaches.
Goodell is considering severe sanctions, including the possibility of docking the Patriots "multiple draft picks" because it is the competitive violation in the wake of a stern warning to all teams since he became commissioner, the sources said. The Patriots have been suspected in previous incidents.
"It's really hard to say [they should] forfeit games," Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Hines Ward said. "Draft picks would hurt a lot of teams; take away their first or second-round pick -- that would be a stiff penalty to make sure nobody does it again.
"You would hope that, during their run, when they were winning all their Super Bowls, all that stuff wasn't going on. You look back in the past, and we played them in the championship games, and you kind of wonder. It seemed like they were a step ahead of us at all times, but those games are behind us. There's nothing we can do about it. You just look forward and see what the commissioner will do."
Tennessee Titans coach Jeff Fisher, a co-chairman of the NFL's competition committee, said the league is trying to keep technology from overtaking the game.
"If they are in fact found guilty of this, it only shows that the steps the league has taken are good steps," Fisher said. "There's no place for it. Everybody clearly understands the rules. The competition committee's responsibility is to protect the integrity of the game. With technology the way it is right now, things could get out of hand in a matter of weeks if we don't protect the integrity of the game."
Jets coach Eric Mangini, a former Belichick assistant, also declined to comment. Asked if he had any knowledge of such shenanigans while he was in New England, he followed the form of his mentor.
"As I said with this whole issue, it's a league issue and they are handling it," Mangini said. "And we are really focused on the Ravens."
Patriots players also tried to focus on their game.
How it came to light?
NEW YORK -- A story in Wednesday's New York Daily News claims that Jets coach Eric Mangini, a former New England assistant under Bill Belichick, came armed with keen knowledge of the team's surveillance methods -- and finally decided to act.
"[The Jets] knew they did it," the Daily News wrote, citing a person with knowledge of the situation, who sent the newspaper an e-mail. "They caught the guy a year ago, but couldn't do anything about it. When Eric came, he said that's what they used to do. Bill is going to be [ticked] at Eric. He kissed and told."
Sunday's game was the fifth time Mangini has coached against Belichick since joining the Jets.
-- ESPN.com news services
"I'm the last person in the world to know any of that stuff, anyway," offensive lineman Matt Light said. "I could care less what happens outside of my little world."
But Goodell doesn't have that luxury.
In a busy year for his misbehaving minions, the commissioner has already banned Tennessee cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones for the entire season after repeated run-ins with police. Atlanta quarterback Michael Vick has been suspended indefinitely while he faces a likely jail term for his role in a dogfighting ring.
The Bengals had 10 players charged with crimes during a 14-month span, and both receiver Chris Henry and linebacker Odell Thurman are currently suspended. Cincinnati quarterback Carson Palmer wants Goodell to be consistent with his punishment, whether the offender is wearing a uniform or not.
"Hopefully there's a harsh enough penalty that it's not worth it to try to cheat and try to get any advantage that you're not allowed to get," Palmer said. "I hope the commissioner is just as harsh on them as he's been on individual players for making mistakes."
Other players reacted strongly.
"It just makes you wonder how long they've been doing this and has it really helped them win some games?" Giants defensive end Michael Strahan said on a conference call with Wisconsin media. "That's no different from the cheating ref in basketball."
Last November during New England's 35-0 victory in Green Bay, the Packers caught Estrella shooting unauthorized video told him to stop.
"When you look back, it's scary," Packers cornerback Al Harris said. "I don't want to say anything wrong towards their organization, because I think highly of their coaching staff and their personnel, but if that's the case, that's not right. I would consider it cheating. I honestly would."
Belichick sidestepped questions about the commissioner's timetable and about whether he had any contingencies in place should he get suspended -- the most drastic of the potential penalties Goodell could consider. The coach also refused to discuss whether he worried that the scandal -- dubbed "videogate" in the press room, of course -- would distract his players.
Also at stake is the legacy of the NFL's latest dynasty, one that memorably rejected individual on-field introductions before its first Super Bowl victory, instead "choosing to be introduced as a team." Stressing individual discipline and salary cap selflessness in a league where they tend to be in short supply, the Patriots won three NFL titles in four years and held themselves up as a model organization.
Now, they're being accused of cheating.
"That's not going to tarnish this team," running back Kevin Faulk said. "We know what we do and how hard we work."
Linebacker Chad Brown, who re-signed for a second stint with the team this week and landed in the middle of the tumult, acknowledged it would be embarrassing if the allegations turn out to be true. But he also said the videotaping is an offshoot of the gamesmanship all teams indulge in.
"I think that all the facts should come out before people judge this organization," Brown said. "I think we do things the right way."
Information from The Associated Press and ESPN's Chris Mortensen was used in this report.
ESPN.com news services
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- This videotape needs no interpretation: New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick walked out of his news conference on Wednesday when pressed repeatedly about the sideline spying scandal that landed him on NFL commissioner Roger Goodell's crowded docket.
Ten minutes before his regular availability, Belichick issued a one-paragraph statement apologizing to his team and confirming that he has spoken to Goodell about an "interpretation" of league rules that ban videotaping of the opposing sideline.
"Although it remains a league matter, I want to apologize to everyone who has been affected, most of all ownership, staff and players," Belichick said. "Following the league's decision, I will have further comment."
It was not clear whether Belichick was apologizing for his actions or the distraction it has caused his team as it prepares for Sunday night's marquee game against San Diego. But if he thought -- or even hoped -- that the standing-room crowd of media was there to talk about the Chargers, he failed to prepare in the manner that has made him one of the most successful coaches in the history of the league.
Never one to relish his interactions with the media, Belichick grimly refused to respond to a half-dozen questions about the scandal, possible punishments and the potential effect on his team. Begging for a football question, he seemed ready to abort the news conference after just a few minutes at the podium.
Cheatwave
In August, ESPN.com ran a comprehensive package on cheating in sports. Jeffri Chadiha wrote the NFL portion of the package. Among the ways NFL coaches try to gain an advantage was trying to descramble signals sent from coach to player:
"When Marty Schottenheimer coached the Cleveland Browns in the late 1980s, he routinely sent a scout to watch the signals opposing teams used to relay messages from coaches to players. When the scout returned, Schottenheimer's staff would watch the game film and match the signals to the plays that followed.
"[Herm] Edwards said the same is true today. It's common for coaches to watch standard game tapes [which include shots from the press box and end zone angles], sideline tapes [which usually wind up on highlight shows and include footage of players and coaches talking on the sidelines] and even the television shows of opposing coaches for tips."
"Any questions about the Chargers?" he pleaded in his standard, other-things-to-do monotone. "Want to talk about the football game? If not, I think that statement pretty much covers it."
It appeared that there were none, before one reporter asked about Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson.
The prospect of defending against the reigning NFL offensive player of the year is not the sort of thing that usually cheers up opposing coaches.
But Belichick smiled.
"I think the Chargers are a concern. Their football team is a concern. That's what we're concerned about," he said. "Whatever happens out there Sunday night, out there on the field, that's when everybody will make their statement."
After another 15 minutes of football questions, though, the subject returned to the spying scandal.
"Is there any other question on the Chargers?" Belichick said before walking out. "OK. Yep. That's all. OK. Thank you."
NFL security confiscated a video camera and tape from Patriots video assistant Matt Estrella on Sunday when he was working on the New York Jets' sideline during New England's 38-14 victory. The league has confirmed that it is investigating whether the Patriots were taping the Jets' defensive coaches as they signaled to players on the field.
However, league sources told ESPN's Chris Mortensen that Goodell has already determined that the Patriots have violated league rules when they videotaped defensive signals by the Jets' coaches.
Goodell is considering severe sanctions, including the possibility of docking the Patriots "multiple draft picks" because it is the competitive violation in the wake of a stern warning to all teams since he became commissioner, the sources said. The Patriots have been suspected in previous incidents.
"It's really hard to say [they should] forfeit games," Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Hines Ward said. "Draft picks would hurt a lot of teams; take away their first or second-round pick -- that would be a stiff penalty to make sure nobody does it again.
"You would hope that, during their run, when they were winning all their Super Bowls, all that stuff wasn't going on. You look back in the past, and we played them in the championship games, and you kind of wonder. It seemed like they were a step ahead of us at all times, but those games are behind us. There's nothing we can do about it. You just look forward and see what the commissioner will do."
Tennessee Titans coach Jeff Fisher, a co-chairman of the NFL's competition committee, said the league is trying to keep technology from overtaking the game.
"If they are in fact found guilty of this, it only shows that the steps the league has taken are good steps," Fisher said. "There's no place for it. Everybody clearly understands the rules. The competition committee's responsibility is to protect the integrity of the game. With technology the way it is right now, things could get out of hand in a matter of weeks if we don't protect the integrity of the game."
Jets coach Eric Mangini, a former Belichick assistant, also declined to comment. Asked if he had any knowledge of such shenanigans while he was in New England, he followed the form of his mentor.
"As I said with this whole issue, it's a league issue and they are handling it," Mangini said. "And we are really focused on the Ravens."
Patriots players also tried to focus on their game.
How it came to light?
NEW YORK -- A story in Wednesday's New York Daily News claims that Jets coach Eric Mangini, a former New England assistant under Bill Belichick, came armed with keen knowledge of the team's surveillance methods -- and finally decided to act.
"[The Jets] knew they did it," the Daily News wrote, citing a person with knowledge of the situation, who sent the newspaper an e-mail. "They caught the guy a year ago, but couldn't do anything about it. When Eric came, he said that's what they used to do. Bill is going to be [ticked] at Eric. He kissed and told."
Sunday's game was the fifth time Mangini has coached against Belichick since joining the Jets.
-- ESPN.com news services
"I'm the last person in the world to know any of that stuff, anyway," offensive lineman Matt Light said. "I could care less what happens outside of my little world."
But Goodell doesn't have that luxury.
In a busy year for his misbehaving minions, the commissioner has already banned Tennessee cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones for the entire season after repeated run-ins with police. Atlanta quarterback Michael Vick has been suspended indefinitely while he faces a likely jail term for his role in a dogfighting ring.
The Bengals had 10 players charged with crimes during a 14-month span, and both receiver Chris Henry and linebacker Odell Thurman are currently suspended. Cincinnati quarterback Carson Palmer wants Goodell to be consistent with his punishment, whether the offender is wearing a uniform or not.
"Hopefully there's a harsh enough penalty that it's not worth it to try to cheat and try to get any advantage that you're not allowed to get," Palmer said. "I hope the commissioner is just as harsh on them as he's been on individual players for making mistakes."
Other players reacted strongly.
"It just makes you wonder how long they've been doing this and has it really helped them win some games?" Giants defensive end Michael Strahan said on a conference call with Wisconsin media. "That's no different from the cheating ref in basketball."
Last November during New England's 35-0 victory in Green Bay, the Packers caught Estrella shooting unauthorized video told him to stop.
"When you look back, it's scary," Packers cornerback Al Harris said. "I don't want to say anything wrong towards their organization, because I think highly of their coaching staff and their personnel, but if that's the case, that's not right. I would consider it cheating. I honestly would."
Belichick sidestepped questions about the commissioner's timetable and about whether he had any contingencies in place should he get suspended -- the most drastic of the potential penalties Goodell could consider. The coach also refused to discuss whether he worried that the scandal -- dubbed "videogate" in the press room, of course -- would distract his players.
Also at stake is the legacy of the NFL's latest dynasty, one that memorably rejected individual on-field introductions before its first Super Bowl victory, instead "choosing to be introduced as a team." Stressing individual discipline and salary cap selflessness in a league where they tend to be in short supply, the Patriots won three NFL titles in four years and held themselves up as a model organization.
Now, they're being accused of cheating.
"That's not going to tarnish this team," running back Kevin Faulk said. "We know what we do and how hard we work."
Linebacker Chad Brown, who re-signed for a second stint with the team this week and landed in the middle of the tumult, acknowledged it would be embarrassing if the allegations turn out to be true. But he also said the videotaping is an offshoot of the gamesmanship all teams indulge in.
"I think that all the facts should come out before people judge this organization," Brown said. "I think we do things the right way."
Information from The Associated Press and ESPN's Chris Mortensen was used in this report.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
New England Patriots Accused Of Stealing Signals From Jets - ESPN and Other Sources
I personally think Commissioner Goodell should take the game away from the Patriots. That's terrible. It also cloud's the whole "Bill Belichek's a Genius" talk. Here's John Clayton ...
According to league sources, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has determined that the New England Patriots violated league rules when it videotaped defensive signals by New York Jets coaches during the Patriots' 38-14 win Sunday. There will be a hearing with the Patriots -- mostly likely by phone by the end of the week -- and then a ruling by the commissioner that could cost New England draft picks. Here are some questions and answers on the incident:
What is the commissioner's stance?
Such spying is a serious infraction. It's cheating and could affect the outcome of games. Goodell established a strict player conduct policy, and he wants coaches and team employees to also live up to a high standard.
What rules did the Patriots allegedly violate?
The "Game Operations Manual" states that "no video recording devices of any kind are permitted to be in use in the coaches' booth, on the field, or in the locker room during the game." The manual states that "all video shooting locations must be enclosed on all sides with a roof overhead." NFL security officials confiscated a camera and videotape from a New England video assistant on the Patriots' sideline when it was suspected he was recording the Jets' defensive signals. Taping any signals is prohibited. The toughest part usually is finding evidence to support an allegation.
What could the punishment be?
Goodell must come down hard on this one because he clearly has evidence. ESPN has reported that Goodell is considering severe sanctions, including the possibility of docking the Patriots "multiple draft picks." That could mean a combination of a second-rounder and something else, maybe a fifth-rounder. The commissioner could push the penalty over two years, but he can't treat this lightly by just taking away a second-day draft choice. The Patriots are good. They had only two draft choices -- a first- and a second-round pick -- make the team this season. Fining them just a fourth-round choice wouldn't hurt them much.
What advantage could a coach get by stealing defensive signals?
Any good coach with knowledge of the defensive play calls from the sideline can adjust his blocking schemes and come up with the appropriate counter measures. You've seen quarterbacks and coaches study photos of defensive alignments after each possession. If there is a way to pick up defensive signals, a quarterback can make the right audibles and get out of a bad play. Knowledge is everything.
Belichick is the best in the business at taking information and turning it into strategy. He's the best coach in football at knowing the strength and the weakness of a player and putting him in a position to succeed. Give him a signal or two and he will know how to burn a team with a big play at the right time. A coach that smart is always looking for an edge.
Why will owners be upset about this?
First, many owners may feel Belichick beat them by cheating. That may be hard to take, but that's life. What is going to upset them even more is this incident could cost them hundreds of thousands of dollars. This incident will probably lead to having a defensive player on the field with a radio helmet to receive defensive signals from the sideline. Using hand signals to relay defensive calls is an outdated concept. The offense can use modern technology. Why can't defenders? It's going to cost money to equip defenders. Thanks to this incident, owners may have to start paying for that advancement next year.
What will be Belichick's defense?
That's hard to say because there won't be an open hearing. In fact, the hearing is supposed to be done by phone as early as late this week. The commissioner doesn't have to supply details of the Patriots' position. He just has to render a decision. Bringing Belichick to New York would be a circus. There is no reason to have a circus involving this one. The video either says the Patriots were spying or not. Goodell will listen to Belichick's defense and then deliver his penalty.
What will be the longterm effect on Belichick and the Patriots?
Although this is embarrassing, you can't take away what this franchise can do. They may have the best team in football. Robert Kraft is one of the league's best owners. The team has three Super Bowl rings and a great chance to get a fourth. Other great organizations have paid penalties for violating league rules. The Broncos lost a draft choice for violating the salary cap with John Elway. The Steelers once had to forfeit a third-round draft choice for working out in shoulder pads in the offseason. The Patriots may lose a draft choice or two. And whether or not the Patriots videotaped the Jets' defensive signals, Belichick won't be any less of a coach.
John Clayton is a senior writer for ESPN.com.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
(ESPN's) "Tony (Kornheiser) Is Extremely Neurotic" - Joe Theisman On New “Monday Night Football”
Wow. I can understand that he's upset, but calling someone -- specifically ESPN's Tony Kornheiser "extremely neurotic" is a bit much. Well, it's one thing to say that in private conversation, but another to just hall off and make the comment before a media person. But Joe had a lot to say in this interview covered by MetroBostonNews.com . He dished more on Kornheiser saying "“Monday Night Football” cannot be an extension of “Pardon The Interruption,” because the game is too important."
The entire article by Christopher Price of Metro is below.....
Theismann Unplugged
Analyst sounds off on the Pats, Belichck and “Monday Night Football”
Former NFL quarterback Joe Theismann has never been shy about expressing his opinions. So when Metro caught up with him yesterday, it was no surprise the former Redskins quarterback and “Monday Night Football” analyst let fly on a number of topics, including what he thought about the Patriots’ offseason moves, Bill Belichick’s management style, whether or not Donovan McNabb should be worried and his feelings about being replaced on the “MNF” broadcasts by Ron Jaworski.
What are your thoughts about the Patriots’ moves this offseason?
I love them. It all starts with Mr. Kraft — I don’t think there’s anyone like Mr. Kraft. I have the utmost respect for him as a man, for the way he runs his organization. The way he entrusts his people with the responsibility of keeping this organization at the top … I look at the 49ers and the way they handled that situation. I think New England is the modern equivalent of that. You’ve got the best if not one of the top two or three coaches in the league in Bill [Belichick]. He’s the best at what he does.
You lose a Willie McGinest, you add an Adalius Thomas. You basically get a younger, bigger version of Willie. You have Junior [Seau] coming back healthy. Tedy [Bruschi] coming back healthy, hopefully, Rosevelt [Colvin] coming into his own. You’ve added the defensive linemen a few years ago. And even with Asante [Samuel] and his situation, the secondary is pretty solid, because that’s what you do. Bill believes that he can put the right people into the right situation and make them a Pro Bowler. You aren’t necessarily a Pro Bowler that has come to save a system.
Offensively, there isn’t anybody in football who doesn’t believe that this wasn’t a tight end offense a year ago. And that was the way it was going to be to be successful. The thing that really got Tom [Brady]… for six weeks, Tommy Brady was in a funk. As an aside, I’d like to congratulate him on fatherhood. I think it’s wonderful. Being a dad, this will be the greatest year of his life. I congratulate him and his girlfriend. But you look at what they’ve added. They added Kelley Washington, a big receiver who’s proven. You add Randy Moss … Randy gets a bad knock. Randy doesn’t deserve the criticism that he gets. I’ve known him since Day 1. I would have loved to have played with him. I would have lined up alongside Randy Moss any day, and twice on Sunday. You add Wes Welker, the leading receiver for the Dolphins a year ago. He fits the role of Troy Brown. And then you add Donte Stallworth. You’ve added size, you’ve added red zone production and you’ve added speed.
The biggest travesty of the 2006 season was the fact that Tom Brady was not selected to the Pro Bowl. Are you kidding me? I felt like he had — and had to have — his best year for them to get where to they got to. People forget they were four points from another Super Bowl — and they were going to win that one. I just feel like — and you have to put the qualifier out there that if everyone can stay healthy — I think they offensively become very, very difficult to defend, because offensively, they have the young running back. They have the best quarterback in football. Probably, there isn’t a receiver on that team that will catch more than 55 balls, the way I look at it. They’re probably going to be between 45 and 55, maybe five of them. They’re probably going to be in the low 60s, but they’re touchdown production will go up in the red zone.
What stands out the most about Belichick and the way he approaches the game?
Bill Belichick believes in his system and he puts it on his players to deliver, and if you don’t deliver, you won’t be here. If you’re not a New England Patriot type of player, you will not be a New England Patriot. He has a very specific idea as to what he’s looking for in that type of player.
I just think that defensively, there isn’t anybody better than him. As a head coach … the two things he does as a head coach is discipline and direction. And he cuts to the chase. There is no sugarcoating with him and his ballclub. He’s upfront. He tells you what he expects from you and he tells you how you’re going to do it.
How would you react if you were in Donovan McNabb’s situation? What if the Redskins came in and drafted a quarterback?
They did. I have walked in Donovan’s shoes. Tom Flick was a No. 2 pick when I was there. In 1981, we went 0-5, and they go out and get a quarterback. I was going to be traded to the Detroit Lions. The Redskins went out and drafted Tom Flick in the second round. Joe Gibbs was a second-year head coach. They were after his job.
The only thing that Donovan has to concern himself with is staying healthy, because there isn’t anybody who can threaten Donovan McNabb. He’s one of the great quarterbacks in this game. I don’t throw the term “great” around lightly. He has really earned the moniker of greatness. His problem over the last two years has been injuries. Andy [Reid] has built the offense around Donovan’s ability. There are always areas he can improve in — throwing the ball over the middle. The shorter passes, he tends to jump and rush them a little bit, and he’s not as accurate as he can be. But he’s a great threat. I think they’ve added some weapons on the outside. And to go draft a young quarterback, that’s smart. That’s business. It’s what you have to do as a football team. In Donovan’s case, there’s so much being made about nothing, in my opinion. The addition of a young quarterback … this is a non-story. Donovan McNabb is the quarterback of the Philadelphia Eagles. He’ll be the quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles until such time he chooses not to.
What’s your opinion of the new “Monday Night Football” crew?
I love Ronnie. We’ve been friends for a long, long time and I think the world of Ron. [But] I’m not happy with what happened. When you sit down in a meeting and they tell you that you’ve had your best year ever, and the ratings have gone up 50 percent and the executives don’t even talk to my boss and tell me that they didn’t like the fact that I talked about football, you have a little trouble trying to process how you could have done better. For Mike [Tirico] and Tony [Kornheiser] and Ron, it’ll be a learning process again, because Ron hasn’t done television. Tony is extremely neurotic. And I think Mike really settled in. I felt like the last six games we really settled in as a real solid team, all of us. And now, they’ll have to re-create that chemistry again. I’m disappointed, certainly I never expected it. But the people at ESPN understand how to deliver a product. I will say this — I believe, 100 percent that you cannot insult the football fan. “Monday Night Football” is about football, and I hope that they continue to deliver that product to the fan. “Monday Night Football” cannot be an extension of “Pardon The Interruption,” because the game is too important. That’s just the way I feel.
Why are you here in Boston?
About five years ago, I was diagnosed with a what’s called an enlarging prostate. Fifty percent of the guys over 50 have it and 90 percent of men over 80 have it. If you’re getting older, there’s a real good chance your prostate is going to grow. When somebody mentions something about the prostate to a guy — bang — cancer is the first thing that pops into your mind. My dad had the surgery about two years ago, so I talked to my doctor with my PSA test and asked about my options. About that time, GlaxoSmithKline came to me and said they have a drug called Avodart that shrinks the prostate. There are drugs that make you feel like you don’t have to go to the bathroom. There aren’t a lot of drugs that shrink it. And this is one that actually shrinks the prostate. And the size of my prostate is down, based on the exam, because I get a physical every year. I just had my last one 2½ months ago. So it’s something that I’ve become very conscious of. I’m encouraging guys to take the time to go to the doctors and get examined. That is what it is. You owe it to your family, you owe it to yourself and you owe it to the quality of your life.
I’d go to Foxborough, and the first thing I’d have to do is time myself from the booth to the bathroom and back, because through the course of that game, I knew I’d have to at some point run out during a commercial. And since I started taking the drug, it’s worked for me. That’s why I’m such a big advocate for it.
It’s the kind of thing that every guys, as he grows older, will probably end up facing. Everybody says, ‘Oh, Jeez, I don’t want the exam.’ I say, ‘Look. If I can talk about this thing publicly and openly, I would hope that a lot of guys out there would be able to go to their doctors, and in the privacy of their doctors office and have an examination.’ So if there is a problem, it can be detected early on. If there isn’t a problem, it puts your mind and your family’s mind at ease. If you wait, what’s the alternative? It’s not very pleasant. That’s why I got involved in the campaign. It’s time for guys to be very conscious of their health and go to the doctor.
I get a chance to talk to some of the urologists and some of the doctors in the area from a patient’s standpoint and tell them that maybe there are some other ways that they can ask the people to ask the question. When people go to the doctor — and we do it with the doctor, we do it with accountants and we do it with lawyers — we assume that they’re the supreme authority and we assume that they have all the answers to all our problems. What I say is that if I’m not feeling good and I don’t ask you to look at something, maybe you can say ‘Hey, maybe we should take a look at this too.’ So it’s an opportunity to be able to share, maybe from a patient’s perspective information with the doctors.
My Dad and I, when I was a kid, we used to sit around and talk about how my Little League game went, or my Pop Warner game or high school game. Now, we talk about our prostates. [laughter] That’s how time has moved on.
For more information on prostate education, check out www.prostatecare.com.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Todd Sauerbrun wins contract Grievance against Patriots
Sauerbrun Wins Grievance Against Pats
By Associated Press
BOSTON -- Punter Todd Sauerbrun won his grievance against the New England Patriots on Wednesday and is now a free agent.
The 13-year veteran is expected to join the Denver Broncos. He agreed to a one-year deal with them earlier this month, but the Patriots matched it through a clause in his contract with New England. Sauerbrun had signed with the Patriots last December and punted in the playoffs.
Sauerbrun, with the help of the NFL Players Association, contended that the clause was inappropriate because it was not written separately from the contract itself, a requirement for right-to-match deals. A special master in Boston ruled Wednesday that the Patriots erred, thus freeing Sauerbrun.
His deal with Denver was worth more than the $1.395 million he was scheduled to make with the Broncos last year. Sauerbrun started the 2006 season with Denver, but lost his job while serving a four-game suspension for using the banned dietary supplement ephedra.
Sauerbrun has a career punting average of 44 yards, with a net average of 36. He made the Pro Bowl three straight times, between 2001 and 2003, when he was with the Carolina Panthers.
Sauerbrun said he knowingly took an over-the-counter weight loss product last summer that he strongly suspected contained ephedra, which the NFL banned after the death of Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Korey Stringer during training camp in 2001. Players are randomly tested and can be suspended after the first violation.
That drew the ire of Broncos coach Mike Shanahan, who said the punter is the only player on the team who can be fat as far as he was concerned.
Sauerbrun, who packs 215 pounds on his beefy 5-foot-10 frame and who was fined by the Panthers for eating too much, said at the time he worries about his weight all the time.
He also said he especially regretted letting down Shanahan, who gave him a fresh start after a trouble-filled stint in Carolina, and that he hoped he could make it up to him someday. He might get that chance soon.
By Associated Press
BOSTON -- Punter Todd Sauerbrun won his grievance against the New England Patriots on Wednesday and is now a free agent.
The 13-year veteran is expected to join the Denver Broncos. He agreed to a one-year deal with them earlier this month, but the Patriots matched it through a clause in his contract with New England. Sauerbrun had signed with the Patriots last December and punted in the playoffs.
Sauerbrun, with the help of the NFL Players Association, contended that the clause was inappropriate because it was not written separately from the contract itself, a requirement for right-to-match deals. A special master in Boston ruled Wednesday that the Patriots erred, thus freeing Sauerbrun.
His deal with Denver was worth more than the $1.395 million he was scheduled to make with the Broncos last year. Sauerbrun started the 2006 season with Denver, but lost his job while serving a four-game suspension for using the banned dietary supplement ephedra.
Sauerbrun has a career punting average of 44 yards, with a net average of 36. He made the Pro Bowl three straight times, between 2001 and 2003, when he was with the Carolina Panthers.
Sauerbrun said he knowingly took an over-the-counter weight loss product last summer that he strongly suspected contained ephedra, which the NFL banned after the death of Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Korey Stringer during training camp in 2001. Players are randomly tested and can be suspended after the first violation.
That drew the ire of Broncos coach Mike Shanahan, who said the punter is the only player on the team who can be fat as far as he was concerned.
Sauerbrun, who packs 215 pounds on his beefy 5-foot-10 frame and who was fined by the Panthers for eating too much, said at the time he worries about his weight all the time.
He also said he especially regretted letting down Shanahan, who gave him a fresh start after a trouble-filled stint in Carolina, and that he hoped he could make it up to him someday. He might get that chance soon.
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