Bleacher Report - Articles by Ron Glover

Time for Andy Reid To Feel the Heat

Ron Glover — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 03:37:37 -0400

For 10 seasons, Andy Reid has been the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles. Through three-straight NFC Championship losses, a Super Bowl loss, and family issues that were made public, Reid has been able to weather the storm of his critics.

With the Eagles suffering back-to-back losses attributed directly to Reid's playcalling, I believe that now is the time for Reid to feel the heat that was reserved for Donovan McNabb this season. Reid is in the third and possibly final phase of his tenure in Philadelphia.

The Honeymoon 1999-2001: Andy Reid arrived in Philadelphia in January of 1999 with the task of removing the bitter taste that a 3-13 team leaves in the mouths of many. Reid, who was a quarterback coach under Mike Holmgren in Green Bay, was replacing Ray Rhodes.

Rhodes, who coached the Birds for four seasons, seemed to run out of profanity-laced pregame talks, coupled with early-round draft picks wasted on players that ended up being cut or ineffective as starters.

Reid was walking into and ideal position, as the Eagles would have the second overall pick in the draft that was chock full of young quarterbacks.

While the consensus seemed to be to draft Heisman Trophy winner Ricky Williams of Texas, Reid and the Eagles brass would select Donovan McNabb of Syracuse. Upon being selected, the choice of McNabb was met with boos by some "fans," with whom the selection did not go over well with.

McNabb would be an understudy to Doug Pederson, who came over from Green Bay with Reid, to bring him along in learning the finer points of the West Coast offense. In the Birds' 10th game that season, the training wheels were taken off and it was McNabb's show to run.

McNabb had the good fortune of being surrounded with a mix of young talent and experienced veterans. Players like Troy Vincent, Bobby Taylor, Sean Landetta, and Brian Mitchell were important in the development of McNabb.

In the 2000 season, the Eagles would finish 11-5 with a playoff win over the Tampa Bay Bucs in the wild-card round before losing to the Giants in the Divisional Playoffs. Reid would win the first of two Coach of the Year awards.

Getting over the Hump...At What Cost? 2001-2004: Andy Reid and the Eagles had become a force to be reckoned with in the NFC. Beginning in 2001, Reid and the Birds would win the first of four consecutive division titles, as well as the run to four-straight Conference Championship games.

In the three Conference-title-game losses, turnovers were the difference in each game, but what gets left out is the playcalling and Reid's inability to adjust.

In the St. Louis title game, Correll Buckhalter left the game with an injury and missed the second half. Reid had Duce Staley and Brian Mitchell at his disposal and failed to use both. The Eagles became one-dimensional and the Rams picked up on it, picking off McNabb on the potential game-winning drive.

In the Tampa Bay title game, the Birds once again failed to make adjustments. McNabb fumbled twice and threw the deciding pick to Ronde Barber in the finale at the Vet. Once again, in a close one, Reid tried to pass his way out of trouble, with Duce Staley, Dorsey Levens, Brian Mitchell and rookie Brian Westbrook at his disposal.

Against the Carolina Panthers in 2003, McNabb was picked off three times in the most frustrating of the three losses (14-3). The Eagles again failed to control the clock and the ball. Once McNabb was knocked out of the game, Koy Detmer was ineffective in a game that the Birds could've won.

Don't misunderstand me; I'm not passing all of the losses off on Reid, and I'm not calling for him to be fired. I like Reid as a coach, and he seems to be a decent guy, given his problems last season proved that no one regardless of stature is exempt from life struggles.

I will hold him responsible for the one-dimension offense that this team has become. In the regular and postseason, the Eagles have become a team that, if you stay in the game long enough, will hand it to you. Why? Because they don't melt away the clock by running the ball, you cannot win in today's NFL when you ratio is 65/35 in favor of the pass.

Closing the Deal: 2004-Present

Andy Reid has survived the Vet, its 700 Level, and three major injuries to McNabb and Terrell Owens. Now is the time for him to cement his legacy here; not too many coaches hang around in one place this long and leave empty handed.

Reid has maybe the game's most versatile player in Westbrook, a healthy McNabb, and a decent receiving corps at best. As much as we want a big-time receiver here again, I believe that we as fans fail to realize that the thing we want most will hurt us in the end. Because he'll never run the ball like he should.

So here is what I recommend:

1. Keep Your Foot on the Gas: The first drive of yesterday's game was run like a championship team—flawless. Something we haven't seen in awhile, there was a mixture of runs and passes, and the 'Skins defense was left guessing until their backs were to the wall.

But for some reason, the offense eased up and let the 'Skins back in the game and never got the lead back. Sometimes a touchdown can be just as demoralizing as a turnover. Pedal to the metal!

2. Get Exotic: Nothing says you have to be down 10 points to run a trick play.

3. Play Big: Utilize the biggest offensive line in football. Enough of this "a short pass is just as good as a run." You have speed and power in the backfield. In short yardage (e.g. goal-line) situations, slide Dan Kleco back there (although he didn't help much on Sunday).

Oddly enough, he's the most experienced fullback that you have. What happened to the fade pass McNabb and Hank Baskett worked on all through training camp (what has happened to Hank Baskett?). The Eagles have over 900 scripted plays. Andy, you're collecting plays like they're football cards; throw a wrinkle in there!

4. DeSean Jackson: Rarely does a team have two players that can score anytime they touch the ball. In Brian Westbrook and DeSean Jackson, the Eagles have two. Jackson has shown what he can do as a receiver; now it's time to move him around the field just to cause confusion.

Jackson doesn't have to be the primary target. If he's lined up in the backfield or anywhere the defense isn't used to, it will cause confusion. Even if the defense calls a timeout and you remove him, it was successful.

Whatever Reid chooses to do needs to be different than what we've seen the past two weeks. These Eagles are closer to the team that lost to the Cowboys than the one that lost on yesterday. And yes, the defense has their issues, but everyone knows that the offense is what makes this team go. The heat is on Andy.

Welcome to Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Eagles 2008: The Runningbacks

Ron Glover — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 03:57:18 -0400

Welcome back to the position-by-position breakdown of the 2008 Philadelphia Eagles. Today, we'll look at the Birds' running game heading into the 2008 season.

The Starter: Brian Westbrook

I read a column last week where Brian Westbrook was deemed, “The greatest back to play in the West Coast offense” or what I have renamed the “Walsh Pro-Set.” I believe some fans out in San Francisco believe Roger Craig would have something to say about that. Arguably, Brian Westbrook is the best multi-purpose back the NFL since Marshall Faulk.

Westbrook, entering his seventh season, has ducked, dodged and weaved his way into the upper echelon of running backs. The Vikings’ Adrian Peterson and the Chargers’ LaDainian Tomlinson may get more ink, but neither posses the hands nor escapability of "36 West."

In 2007, Westbrook set an Eagles all-purpose record of 2,104 yards. He would finish third in the NFL with 1,333 rushing yards and lead all backs with 771 receiving yards.

The biggest surprise last season was Westbrook’s durability, which was rewarded by an increased workload. Seven times last season Westbrook carried the ball 20 or more times, including a 32-tote performance against the Dolphins in November.

Not counting the season finale against Buffalo, B West had no less than 14 carries in a game. It looks like Andy Reid is over being gun shy about giving Brian the ball in heavy doses. The coaching staff has also done a better job of getting Westbrook the ball in space, causing instant mismatches with linebackers and even an occasional corner or two will get juked.

With a new deal in place, Westbrook can focus on the season and channel his energy towards solidifying his position as one of the NFL's elite backs.

Second String: Correll Buckhalter/Lorenzo Booker

It’s hard to root against a player like Correll Buckhalter. The fourth-round pick out of Nebraska in 2001 has battled back from three major knee-injuries over the course of his career to cement himself as Westbrook’s backup for the past two seasons, as well as assisting in the return game.

Buck's ability to run in between the tackles is invaluable, as it spares Westbrook the unnecessary pounding. His average of five-yards per carry last season was a career high. A favorite of many of his teammates, Andy Reid would be hard pressed to find a reason not to bring Buckhalter back.

The lone threat to Buckhalter holding down the backup position comes in the form of second-year back Lorenzo Booker, acquired in a draft-day trade with the Miami Dolphins. He is slated to help in the return game and spell Westbrook.

Booker, who is being looked upon as “another draft pick” by Reid, is considered faster and more elusive than Buckhalter, but has struggled in the return game and has been replaced by rookie Quintin Demps. Booker will make the cut as a third back.

Third String: Ryan Moats/Tony Hunt

Ryan Moats is a frustrating football player. After giving us a glimpse of what he could become, in the second half of the 2005 season, he has struggled with injuries and, at times, the intricacies of the system.

His inability to find a niche on the team has placed him in the doghouse on a few occasions. Moats was on the fence before breaking his ankle last year as the preseason drew to a close.

The Eagles are going to keep at least three backs, which means Moats is going to have to beat out three backs. He has a better chance of breaking through on the kick-return team (DeSean Jackson will return punts, he has never returned kickoffs), other than that, it may be the practice squad or an all-out release for Moats.

The clock has officially started ticking on the career of second-year running back Tony Hunt. Hunt was somewhat of a disappointment, as he failed to beat out Buckhalter for the backup spot last season.

At 6′2″, 230-pounds, Hunt could remedy the Birds' woeful running game inside the 10-yard line. Reid has put Hunt in the mix for the fullback position, which tells me that he likes Hunt, and he's trying to find a spot for him to make a contribution.

Hunt's ability to get short yardage is not in question; it's the blocking schemes that he struggles with. Reid's fondness for Hunt may force him to keep four backs.

Philadelphia Eagles 2008: The Quarterbacks

Ron Glover — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 03:10:39 -0400

My football juices are flowing once again, which means NFL training camp is upon us. We’re a little more than 6 weeks away from Kickoff 2008, so I’m going to fast forward through training camp and give you my view of the Eagles 2008 position by position, presuming everyone makes it out healthy. Today we start with the quarterbacks.

Starter: Donovan McNabb

Many NFL insiders and fans alike have deemed this season Donovan McNabb’s swan song in Philadelphia. In 10 seasons, Number five has led the Eagles to four consecutive Conference Championship games and a Super Bowl berth, all while becoming the franchise’s greatest signal caller along the way.

Living in Philadelphia amongst the so-called “ knowledgeable” football fan you realize that their glass is always half empty. Yes, this is a fan base scorned from decades of disappointments, but from his first day in “The City That Loves You Back,” McNabb has displayed a winning attitude while getting W’s on Sundays.

In the process he has taken unwarranted shots from fans, media, former teammates even public officials. If he performed great, it was never good enough, there was always someone saying, “He could’ve done this better.” In addition, if things went south, look out for the overkill.

If Donovan threw two picks and three touchdowns in an Eagles victory, you would think that he threw three picks in a loss. When did signing a $115 million contract make someone a “Company Man” or “Not Black enough” It’s always been black or white with McNabb - figuratively and literally.

Listening to McNabb in past years we’ve sensed his hurt, anger, and confidence. This year McNabb has come in with a determination that he will dictate how his career in Philadelphia ends. He has made it clear that he doesn’t plan on handing the reigns over to Kevin Kolb next season or the season after that.

I don’t believe Coach Andy Reid is ready to close out the Donovan McNabb era just yet either. You have to understand that unless Reid wins a Super Bowl with another quarterback, Donovan McNabb will be the defining player in his tenure as coach. McNabb was the first player he drafted and been to hell and back with, all things considered, he’s won with Number five under center and in a wide open NFC, getting back to the Super Bowl is not that far-fetched.

McNabb is still in the top tier of quarterbacks when healthy, and with weapons at his disposal. I believe if Reid had his way, a healthy McNabb would be here until they close the deal. The reality is McNabb’s return in 2009 is up to team owner Jeff Lurie.

2nd String: Kevin Kolb

Don’t read too much into Kevin Kolb being elevated to second string this off-season, if anything the move by Andy Reid makes sense. “I’ve seen improvement [in Kolb], and right now he has a seasoned veteran ahead of him and behind him,” Reid said. “He has a lot of knowledge there to draw from and learn from.

He’s competing right now. That number two spot allows him to get a few more reps than what A.J. might get in the third spot.” I don’t see Kolb taking over for McNabb (God Forbid) in a one or two game situation, If Kolb is going to be looked at it’s going to be with the intention of him being the starter from that point on - however that happens.

Then and only then will we know if he is ready to assume the starting job. Even as the chatter of him possibly succeeding McNabb next season gets louder, Kolb remains focused on his role as a backup. “My ultimate goal is to have a very successful career as a starter.

Right now, I’m just trying to compete every day so whenever the opportunity comes, I’m in good enough physical shape and mental shape to step in as a starter and make plays.” For now all Kolb can do is stay focused and prepared.

3rd String: A.J. Feeley

For a guy that’s been at both ends of the quarterback spectrum A.J. Feeley has been a pro’s pro. Despite filling in for McNabb during his two tour of duty in Philadelphia he has said and done all the right things and realizes his role on the team.
He’s made the most out of his situation here and for that he deserves some props. Now Feeley is penciled in at number three on the depth chart behind Kolb and McNabb, despite his status Feeley maintains the confidence of a starter. “I just get the feeling we’re practicing and playing. It’s kind of beyond the whole numbers game for me.

I think they know upstairs what I’m capable of doing.” Feeley’s eight interceptions in three games last season raised flags with the coaching staff as McNabb threw only seven in 14 games.

Hence the demotion?

“Essentially you want to play, and you want to help the team in whatever capacity that is,” Feeley said. “It’s not that I don’t have ambitions to be a starter again and play all the time. That is what I want to do. But I don’t get caught up in that stuff. Let’s hope "that stuff” doesn’t become an issue.

Josh Childress Joins the Euroleague: The Future Of NBA Free Agency Is In Doubt.

Ron Glover — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 07:33:29 -0400

Within two weeks, the NCAA and the NBA have been told what they can do with their age restrictions and free agency dollars.

On July 9, Brandon Jennings shunned the NCAA to play basketball professionally in Europe until he is eligible for the NBA Draft next season.

Earlier today, Atlanta Hawks free agent forward Josh Childress signed with Olympiakos of the Euroleague for three seasons.

Where does this leave the future of free agency in the NBA?

The Atlanta Hawks will not have to worry about the loss of forward Josh Childress coming back to haunt them next season.

Not in an NBA uniform anyway.

The free agent small forward has signed a deal to play with Olympiakos, a Grecian team in the Euroleague for three years.

The Hawks were able to match any offer from an NBA team but not from foreign teams. Childress’ deal is said to be worth $20 million after taxes making his deal the highest of any player signed to the Euroleague.

The guaranteed deal, which he can opt out of after each year, is more than what Childress would have earned in the NBA.

Childress averaged 11.1 points and 5.0 rebounds for the Hawks last season.

So where does this leave the future of free agency in the NBA?

If players are going to earn this amount AFTER taxes, and possibly opt-out after each season. Leaves NBA Commissioner David Stern with his hands tied.

Each season, NBA players end up going to Europe to play, some even finish their careers there. However, none of those players have turned down or signed for the money that Childress is going earn.

I’m not worried about the top tier free agents just yet, but for the Josh Childress’ of the world, this is a feather in the cap of “the glue guys” of the NBA that feel like their being low-balled in the American market.

David Stern has to be worried but fair exchange is no robbery, the number of foreign players has increased drastically.

Bottom line: the world is no longer a farm system for the NBA. Stern had better rethink the eligibility rule.

Baron Davis: How to Screw Your Career in Seven Days

Ron Glover — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 03:17:50 -0400

It took all of one week for Baron Davis to feel the Clipper Blues.

When he returned to his native Los Angeles to sign with the Clippers for five years and $65 million, there was the expectation of pairing up with Elton Brand and possibly Corey Maggette and making a title run for L.A.'s second team.

Now there's nothing to look forward to. No talk of a title run, and the playoffs?

Playoffs?

With Brand agreeing to a deal with Philadelphia and Maggette headed to Golden State, Davis is left with the fallout. The Clippers have rookies Eric Gordon and DeAndre Jordan, second-year player Al Thornton, and an emerging star in Chris Kaman,

It's something to work with—but nowhere near the work Davis had envisioned.

While Philadelphia now aims to make waves in the East and the Warriors still look competitive out West, it's going to be the same 'ol song for the Clippers.

No one could blame Davis if he would've re-signed with the Warriors. He would have had the bulk of last year's team intact, and a better shot at the postseason.

More money, less problems.

Instead, his dream scenario of returning home and turning the Clippers around turned out to be nothing more than a mirage.

Less money, more problems.

Note to Javon Walker: Heed the Warning Signs

Ron Glover — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 07:37:47 -0400

Whatever Higher Power has spared the life of Javon Walker twice since Jan. 1, 2007, hopefully got through to the Oakland Raiders wide receiver.

Walker was found unconscious along the Las Vegas strip, Monday morning, after he was reportedly beaten, robbed, and abducted before he was put out of the vehicle by his assailants.

Walker spent the weekend partying at several clubs in the area with friends. It was reported that Walker was seen spraying the partygoers with several bottles of champagne.

After that, things get hairy. According to Walker, he was awakened by a knock at his door around 3:00 AM. There were approximately three men with guns who beat Walker, and robbed him of about $3,000 in cash and $100,000 in jewelry.

Walker, 29, was taken to the Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center on Monday, where he was listed in fair condition and was expected to be released Tuesday.

This is not the first time Walker has been involved in an altercation after a night on the town.

On Jan. 1, 2007, Walker's former teammate Darrent Williams was killed after his limo was shot at by reputed Crip gang members after an altercation inside a Denver nightclub.

Again, it was reported that the crowd was sprayed with champagne by Walker.

My question to Javon Walker is: What will it take for you to come to grips that every time you go out to party, not everyone is there to party with you. There just as many negative elements in that club as positive, and they're all not wearing painted-on jeans.

Thugs look for a guy like you—shining brighter than a strobe light, flashing cash, and, the final insult, spraying them with champagne like they're beneath you.

I would want to put my foot up your tail as well if I was out and I get sprayed with some champagne when all I can afford is Corona. I guess since most of them can't afford it, you figure to do them a public service.

Guess what? It's that same display of arrogance and stupidity that lands athletes in the hospital, jail, or worse.

But who am I to tell you something you already knew.

Greatest Sports Accomplishment: Doug Williams' Super Bowl Win

Ron Glover — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 08:15:17 -0400

The position of quarterback has been a microcosm of the black man's struggle in America—a door supposedly “open to all”—except for us of a darker hue who continuously knock, kick, and scream until an answer comes.

For 80 years, the black man has fought tooth and nail to lead a professional football franchise to glory. Many came before Doug Williams, and some of them may have even been better skilled. But looking back on the life of Douglas Lee Williams—none were better prepared.

My mother says, “The Lord chooses whom he will.” If you ask Williams about being the Chosen One, he places it at the feet of hard work, opportunity, and determination more than anything.

Born the sixth of eight children in Zachary, LA, to Robert and Laura Williams, Doug learned the lessons of hard work at an early age. His father was wounded in the attacks on Pearl Harbor, but was able to make a living as a construction worker and nightclub manager. His mother worked as a school cook. Money was hard to come by in the Williams household, but it remained a close-knit home.

Williams was active in all sports, especially in football, where he found his niche at quarterback.

Coming out of high school, Doug was only recruited by two schools, Southern University and Grambling State University. It was Williams’ conversation with legendary coach Eddie Robinson that won Williams over and convinced him to attend Grambling.

It would be one of several conversations with Robinson that would carry Williams through the course of his life.

Williams’ freshman season at Grambling was a forgettable one—he was redshirted, which resulted in his grades and confidence dropping off. His father was so troubled that he considered removing Williams from school and finding him work. His sophomore season worked out better—he was penciled in as the team’s third-string quarterback.

Once again, not feeling satisfied with the results, Williams considered leaving the team, but coach Robinson talked him into staying on.

When it seemed darkest for Williams—opportunity presented itself. The Tigers' starting quarterback was lost to injury, allowing Williams to work his way into the starting role. From that day on, Williams would not relinquish the position. He would finish out the remainder of the 1974 season, and his remaining three seasons, as Grambling’s signal caller.

Williams enjoyed a magnificent career for the Tigers. He would win 35 of 40 games as a starter, while winning four consecutive SWAC titles. In 1977, Williams was named a first team All-American by the Associated Press and finished fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting.

He would leave Grambling with 8,411 passing yards and 93 touchdowns, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education.

In the 1978 NFL Draft, Williams would be the first quarterback taken, with the 17th overall pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Other notables selected: Earl Campbell, Art Still, Wes Chandler, James Lofton, Clay Matthews, Mike Kenn, John Jefferson, and Ozzie Newsome...and that was just the first round.

Williams' rookie season began with a contract dispute that would eventually end with him making $565,000 for five seasons. In spite of his late arrival, he would win the starting job, and he led the downtrodden Bucs to an 4-4 record through eight games.

In Week 10, Williams would suffer a broken jaw, an injury from which he would recover from in time to play in the season finale. Despite a shortened season, Williams would be named to the NFL’s All-Rookie Team.

The 1979 Tampa Bay Buccaneers seemed to be a team of destiny, finishing the season 10-6. They would go on to win the Central Division and face the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round of the NFC Playoffs.

I remember this game vividly, because of the three names I heard all afternoon: Lee Roy Selmon, Ricky Bell (who the Eagles could not stop for anything), and Doug Williams. It was a long day for Jaws and the vaunted Philly O-line who had no answer for Selmon. Williams did just enough to win, as the Bucs would go on to record one of the great upsets in NFL history.

The following week the Bucs would host the NFC Championship game against the Los Angeles Rams. Williams tore his biceps muscle, and missed most of the third and all of the fourth quarter, and despite a yeoman defensive effort, the Bucs would fall 9-0.

Williams would have to wait eight more years before his next shot at the Super Bowl.

For eight years, there was no game plan or pregame speech that could prepare Doug Williams for the all-out blitz he was going to encounter.

In 1982, things got off to a good start. Williams married Janice Goss, and he would once again lead the Bucs to the playoffs in a strike-shortened season. Again the Bucs would fall short to the Dallas Cowboys 30-17. Williams' initial contract with the Bucs had expired, and with contract negotiations looming, Williams looked forward to a windfall payday.

But it was not to be.

Bucs management offered Williams $400,000 per season. As negotiations continued, Williams' wife began to experience severe headaches. In April of 1983, it was discovered that a brain tumor had developed, surgery was scheduled immediately to remove the tumor, but Janice died a week later.

With his life shattered and career in limbo, Williams would head back to Zachary. His stay there would bring little comfort. His father Robert would develop health problems that would lead to the amputation of both legs. Williams’ talks with the Bucs would ultimately break down, ending his association with the club.

During Williams’ negotiations with the Bucs, the United States Football League (USFL) was formed. Bill Tatham, owner of the Oklahoma Outlaws, reached out to Williams and offered him a substantial contract. Williams played three seasons in the USFL. He was unsure that he would receive an offer from the NFL, so he took a coaching job at Southern University.

In 1986, the USFL officially folded. Williams was just settling in at Southern U. when he received an unlikely call from Washington Redskins' head coach Joe Gibbs, who knew Williams from his years in Tampa Bay.

Williams would sign with the ‘Skins as the backup to Jay Schroeder. But Gibbs saw bigger things for Williams. In a conversation with ‘Skins owner Jack Kent Cooke, Gibbs let his confidence in Williams be known.

“‘I’m not going to pay him $500,000 to be a backup," Cooke said. But Gibbs was adamant, "He may not be a backup, He may win a Super Bowl for us one day."

Despite a new lease on his football career, Williams’ personal difficulties continued. He married Lisa Robinson in June of 1987, but the union only lasted about five months.

Jay Schroeder was the opening day starter, and he was injured in the opener against the Eagles. Williams would become the starter, but a 24-day strike allowed Schroeder to heal. Again, as fate would allow, Williams would hurt his back and Schroeder would regain his starting job. Williams was reduced to tears, as his final shot seemed wasted as the playoffs loomed.

In the season’s final game the ‘Skins needed a win against the Vikings to get a higher seed, and possibly home field in the playoffs. Schroeder plays a terrible first half and is pulled by Gibbs in the third quarter. Williams is put in, leads the ‘Skins to victory, and is named the starter for the playoffs.

Williams would throw three touchdowns in the Redskins' two playoff victories against the Bears and Vikings.

Although the Denver Broncos, a stupid question, a toothache, and a hyper-extended knee stood in the way of history, it would take an embarrassment from the previous season, and the hopes of those that came before him, to pull Williams through.

The Denver Broncos were led by John Elway, who had become a sympathetic figure in the eyes of many after leading his team through one of the greatest drives in NFL history to reach Super Bowl XXI. The Broncos would be trounced by the Giants in Super Bowl XXI. This was his second crack at the Lombardi Trophy.
Media week at the Super Bowl brings out some of the best soundbytes that you’ll probably get the entire week. The dumbest soundbyte was a question that came from a reporter who asked Williams, “How long have you been a black quarterback?” Williams’ response was, “Well, I’ve been black all my life.” The reporter really wanted to know how long had Williams had the intelligence to be a quarterback, while disguised as a black man.
The morning before the Super Bowl, Williams woke up with a sore tooth and a headache. The dentist could only do a root canal to promise Williams would be pain-free. Williams went through with the root canal. That night he even indulged in his pregame snack—a bag of Hershey’s kisses.
Denver had jumped out to a 10-0 lead when the inexplicable happens. Williams drops back, and the grass comes from under his feet, hyperextending his knee. He miraculously returns, but it’s the motivation behind the return that is the true miracle.

In the 1986 NFC Championship Game against the Giants, Jay Schroeder was knocked silly by Lawrence Taylor. Gibbs sent Williams onto the field to sub for Schroeder, but Schroeder furiously waved Williams off. As if to say, "I’d rather fall on my own sword in defeat, before I allow you to lead us to victory."

Williams took that show of disrespect and filed it away, vowing that if the tables ever turned, Schroeder would never be under center as long as they wore the same uniform.

Williams would return and on his first play from scrimmage, he hit Ricky Sanders with an 80-yard strike to cut the lead to 10-7. After a Denver punt, Williams found Gary Clark on a 27-yard touchdown pass. Unsung hero Timmy Smith (202 rushing yards) broke off a 58-yard scamper to make the score 21-10. Williams wasn’t done yet. Before halftime, he would throw his third and fourth touchdowns of the quarter to Sanders and tight end Clint Didier, respectively.

Before you could blink, Williams had thrown four touchdowns in the second quarter, and the ‘Skins put up a total of 35 points on the Broncos, which put the game out of reach before halftime. The Broncos would not score again in a 42-10 defeat.

Williams had made history, and in his contribution, he carried the spirits of those before him: Fritz Pollard, Willie Thrower, George Taliaferro, Sandy Stephens, Marlin Briscoe, James "Shack" Harris, Joe Gilliam, John Walton, and Vince Evans.

When a door seemed closed, Williams kept coming back. Whether it was the death of his young wife or a root canal, Doug Williams just kept getting up. Williams may never get into the Hall of Fame, and he may never become a head coach in the NFL. But for one day in January, Doug Williams was the greatest football player on the planet.

Because he was prepared to be.

Open Mic: Greatest Disappointment - Eric Lindros

Ron Glover — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 08:00:22 -0400

If there ever was a "Next One" Eric Lindros was it. ESPN The Magazine said so, and the entire hockey world thought so.

So it came as no surprise when in August of 1992 the Philadelphia Flyers, non-existent in the playoffs the previous three seasons, mortgaged their immediate future (six players including Peter Forsberg) in a trade with the then-Quebec Nordiques for Lindros, the player whom many considered the player to lead the NHL into the 21st century.

At 6'4" 240 lbs. Lindros was a locomotive on skates, but possessed the skills of a smaller, faster center. Lindros had dominated the junior hockey leagues and looked to make his mark on the pros. Where "The Great One" Wayne Gretzky relied on his skills, Lindros used his physical presence to take over a hockey game.

Unlike many of the great athletes that have come through Philadelphia, Lindros was a star player that always played with a good supporting cast. His former teammates themselves could be considered an All-Star team: Ron Hextall, John LeClair, Eric Desjardins, Mikael Reneberg, Paul Coffey, Keith Jones, John Vanbriesbrouck, Rod Brind'amour and Keith Primeau.

The 1995 Hart Trophy winner promised the fans of Philadelphia in an emotional acceptance speech that the team was going to get better...and they did. Two seasons later the Flyers would go on to play for the Stanley Cup against the Detroit Red Wings. The Flyers were thoroughly outplayed by the Red Wings, who were too fast for the physical Flyers.

In 1998 things began to fall apart between Lindros and the Flyers; it began when team GM Bob Clarke questioned the toughness of Lindros who landed on the injured list several times during the season from nagging injuries or concussions, from here the feud would only worsen.

During an April 1st, 1999 game against the Nashville Predators, Lindros suffered what was diagnosed as a rib injury. Later that night, the teammate he was sharing a hotel room with, Keith Jones, discovered Lindros lying in a tub, pale and cold. In a call to the Flyers, the trainer was told to put Lindros on a plane that was returning to Philadelphia with injured teammate Mark Reechi.

But Jones insisted that Lindros be taken to a nearby hospital and it was discovered Lindros had a collapsed lung caused by internal bleeding of his chest wall. It was estimated he'd bled out more than half his body's total blood volume.

Lindros's father wrote the Flyers a letter in which he stated that if the trainer had followed team orders, Eric would be dead (a statement supported by the doctors who treated him in Nashville).

The following season in Philadelphia would be "Big E's" last. He would end the season on the injured list with a concussion but return in Game Seven of the Eastern Conference finals against the hated New Jersey Devils.

The Flyers had a 3-1 series lead only to watch it slip away. Lindros was knocked silly on a hit by Devil Scott Stevens. The image of Lindros crashing to the ice was symbolic of the series and ultimately, his career.

The following season Lindros was released and had stints with the New York Rangers, Dallas Stars and Toronto Maple Leafs.

A Memo to Donovan McNabb: Run, and Don't Look Back!

Ron Glover — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 02:28:09 -0400

Dear DMac 5,

I know the thought has crossed your mind a lot lately—I just want you to know that it’s ok to think it, and it may even be liberating to say it. Nevermind, I’ll say it for you, leave Philadelphia now and don’t look back.

This is a town that still has not learned that the grass will not be greener. No city has a knack for trading away Hall of Fame talent; Wilt Chamberlain; Moses Malone, Charles Barkley, Ryne Sandberg, Peter Forsberg (twice), Mo Cheeks (who was the last guy in the Western Hemisphere to find out), Randall Cunningham, Scott Rolen, and Allen Iverson. They let Reggie White walk—which hurts more than a trade because they got nothing back.

See where I’m going with this—you’re next, and the majority of fans in this town would’ve never drafted you if they had their way. Hell, the mayor of the city, now governor of the state, wanted Ricky “Puff-Puff Give” Williams—a contingent of 30 “knowledgeable football fans” assembled by a sports-talk radio personality booed your selection at Radio City Music Hall that day. What enhanced their ignorance was the response that they gave when asked why they were booing, “We were booing the pick—not the player."

Now, I’m not the sharpest knife in the drawer, but I’m pretty good with word association, and if memory serves me correct, YOU were the second pick of the 1999 NFL Draft, and upon your name being called, YOU heard boos, so who were they booing? I know you said it didn’t bother you—but it bothered me.

It bothers me when after four consecutive NFC Championships and one Super Bowl appearance, many of the people here still don’t get it. They didn’t get it when A.J. Feeley replaced you in 2003, they didn’t get it with Jeff Garcia last season. Even with Feely's performance against the Patriots last season, do you honestly believe that you would've been showered with the accolades he received after a loss? I don't think so.

Your replacement, Kevin Kolb, is now your backup—the elephant is in the room Donovan, in full view.

Enough is enough, and too much stinks—the city that eats its own needs to step away from the table.

I can’t say that I’ve always backed you or some of your decisions: The Black on Black crime, the debacle with Terrell Owens, your failure to try to persuade management to work out a deal with Owens when you lobbied for Brian Westbrook—all after you said you didn’t get involved in player negotiations. But for the most part, you’ve hung tough and tried to put the criticism and boos behind you.

But they keep coming.

They question your heart—I don’t think Brett Favre can throw four TDs on a broken ankle without a painkiller or two (sorry, I couldn’t resist that one). Seriously—what do they want? You have left it all on the field, sometimes literally. Fred Biletnikoff threw up before every big game, and he’s played in a few. I respect your gangsta five.

You’re the scapegoat for a stubborn coach. To Andy Reid’s credit, his faith in you has never wavered. I’m beginning to see cracks in the foundation, and if it comes down to you or Reid walking the plank, guess who’s getting the blindfold? Hint: A plank can’t hold Andy Reid.

You tell the world the deck is stacked against the black quarterback and you’re dismissed as a malcontent—Vince Young and Jason Campbell even write it off as a problem that’s yours, not theirs.

The writing is on the wall my man. Don’t give this organization the opportunity to do you like they did Randall, or how the '76ers did A.I. Leave on your terms—they already asked three first-round picks for you at the trading deadline. Were they blowing smoke? Maybe.

Regardless, there is an asking price out there for you—and as we inch closer to 2009, the price will go down. Even if you made it to training camp as an Eagle, next season you could be cut because it’s an option year in your contract.

The bottom line—many of the fans never really wanted you here. They would’ve been happy with Doug Pederson, Jeff Garcia, or A.J. Feely. "Why bring in another black quarterback—no matter how great an athlete he is, he’ll never win."

It’s almost like they want a reason for you not to be here. After one more season gets over—and the fans will finally get what they want.

So let me be the first to say thanks, and that I wish you well. Write your own ticket; you’ve earned it. You’ve definitely soared like an Eagle amongst turkeys. But before you leave, do me one last favor?

Take Brian Westbrook with you—no need in wasting his prime years here with a rebuilding franchise that doesn’t use him properly anyway.