Bleacher Report - NFC East

Philadelphia Eagles Wide Receiver Jason Avant was the True Hero Against Redskins

Dan Parzych — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:19:03 -0500

The Philadelphia Eagles remained in the NFC playoff hunt with their second straight come from behind win in a 27-24 victory over the Washington Redskins on Sunday. With wide receiver DeSean Jackson sidelined due to a concussion, the Eagles needed all the extra help they could get on offense from their young guys.

Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb helped his team overcome an eight-point deficit in the fourth quarter and score 11 unanswered points. Rookie running back LeSean McCoy provided a strong running game for the Eagles throughout the fourth quarter and finished with 76 yards on the ground–including a two-point conversion in the fourth quarter to tie the game at 24.

Even rookie wide receiver Jeremy Maclin hauled in a key 35-yard reception to help set up what ended up being the game-winning field goal by kicker David Akers.

While each of these Eagles played an important role in Sunday’s win against the Redskins, no player deserves more credit for the team’s comeback than fourth-year wideout Jason Avant.

With the Eagles down 24-16 in the fourth quarter, Avant hauled in two key receptions during a drive that helped the Eagles march 90 yards down the field and eventually a one-yard touchdown run by Eldra Buckley. While he may not have been a factor towards the end of the drive, it was his effort in the beginning that helped the team get out of an offensive funk that almost lost them the game.

The Eagles offense arguably had their worst performance of the season in the third quarter of Sunday’s game against the Redskins. Each of their three possessions resulted in a three-and-out. On two of the drives, two third-down passes by McNabb fell just short of a first down. For the Philadelphia fan, it was frustrating to watch considering the Eagles were losing to a Redskins team at home who were winners of just three games all season.

The fourth quarter was a similar situation for the Eagles after they pulled another three-and-out on their first drive. With four straight three-and-outs in the second half, it appeared the Eagles were on their way to their fourth loss of the season and would have to play catch up in the NFC playoff hunt.

That was until Avant saved the offense.

With less than 11 minutes to play and the Eagles looking for a first down for the first time since the end of the second quarter, McNabb found Avant for a 46-yard reception in Washington territory. The very next play, McNabb found Avant again for another 20-yard gain.

All of a sudden, the Eagles offense was alive and there was hope for a fourth quarter comeback for the second straight week.

Overall, Avant led all Eagles wide receivers with five receptions for 94 yards. His two receptions for a combined 66 yards during the drive were a major reason why the Eagles left Lincoln Financial Field victorious on Sunday against the Redskins.

Without Avant, it’s hard to say whether or not the Eagles still would still be holding on to the No. 5 seed in the NFC playoff hunt and trailing the Dallas Cowboys by one game in the NFC East.

Dan Parzych Is the Eagles Fan Voice for NFLTouchdown.com

He is also the founder of the new NFCEastFootball.com

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

These Washington Redskins are Losing with Style

Anthony Brown — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 03:01:20 -0500

I was invited to host Comcast SportsNet's Live Chat for the Washington Redskins at Philadelphia Eagles game today. Here are four things I learned about the Skins after chatting with fans:

Redskin fans like this Redskin team.

Fans said the Redskins are playing with a greater sense of teamwork and heart since the second half of the Atlanta Falcons game. Washington is still losing but the subs are a scrappy bunch who are rebuilding fan allegiance that had been eroding. They liked these guys better than the starters. Rock Cartwright, Quinton Ganther, Devin Thomas, the kick-off returner, are worth cheering for.

I don't believe the chat fans would extend their disdain to Chris Samuels or Chris Cooley, but that's as far as I would go.

Albert Haynesworth drives fans crazy.

Albert Haynesworth is the biggest upgrade to the team. We see his value when he plays. It frustrates the Live Chat crowd when he's out. What's the use of all that talent when it's on the bench? Nothing.

Even when the game is close, don't get your hopes up.

No one was buying, in the third quarter while holding an eight point lead, that the Skins could win the game. Fans loved the effort and the possibilities, but after 10 games, they were braced for another poor play call, or defensive breakdown, or Jason Campbell turnover that would deny the win. "Wait and see" was the emotionally defensive position taken by a fanbase let down one too many times.

Not sold on Jason Campbell.

Even with two touchdown passes, one touchdown run and 47 percent of third downs converted, fans are not sold on Campbell. No. 17 is performing as a solid, mid-tier NFL starter, but has yet to be the reason the Redskins win. Donovan McNabb twice took the Eagles on fourth quarter scoring drives for a come-from-behind win.

Campbell was 1 for 4 in Washington's last drive from the 16 yard line. After a stellar performance on third down conversions, Campbell and Washington fell a yard short on a fourth down attempt when most needed.

Coverage, playcalling and receiver inadequacy may explain it, but the Live Chat fans wanted to see Campbell lead a drive to set up a tying field goal attempt, if not the winning touchdown. Technical proficiency is not enough for Campbell to win back his fans.

After Campbell's last incompletion to Moss, he was shown on the ground after the play by the Tv cameras. I thought Jason was doing a Haynesworth act as said so. In fact, he was body slammed after the pass by Juqua Parker on an uncalled personal foul.

The NFL should look at that play and make a statement with fines. If they do not, we might as well call those rules that protect quarterbacks the Brady Rule.

No one seems to be as protected by those calls as Tom Brady. I'm looking for the NFL to prove me wrong.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Week 12: You Crapped The Bed

DMtShooter Five Tool Tool — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 01:02:00 -0500

This week on You Crap, we're brought to you by Japanese Toilets , the perfect gift for everyone on your Christmas shopping list who wants his bowel movements to be a baffling and expensive ordeal. Once you've dropped a bomb on one of these, you'll never want to commit a war crime on anything less!

You all know how to play the game. Each week, we give you the chance to out-think people who are actually paid to make NFL decisions. Now, let's all play... You Crap The Bed!

1) You are Eagles' coach Andy Reid facing the last-place Redskins at home. You lose the opening coin toss. You choose to:

a) Kick it deep, because the Redskins are a terrible team that does not need any chance of a hot start.

b) Kick it really deep, because place kicker David Akers has been putting the ball in the end zone fairly routinely this year, and your kickoff coverage has been quietly terrible recently, and needs every yard it can get.

c) No, seriously, kick it deep, because you really can't take the risk that, even if you catch the Redskins off guard with an onside kick, that you can feel good about the chances that your rookie-infested special teams will execute the recovery perfectly.

d) Squib or pooch it, I suppose, and give yourselves the chance of recovering the kick without giving up debilitating field position to start the game.

e) Try an onside kick, because even though the new NFL rules have made that play mostly impossible now, the Redskins won't be expecting it, it worked once 10 years ago in Dallas, and it allows the mouth breathers on Fox (Darryl Johnson & Tony Siragusa) to fellate you about how much guts you have.

If you choose (e), preferably while stalking the sidelines like a bear with constipation, congratulations...you crapped the bed! And you've won quickly digging yourself into a hole against a terrible opponent, the knowledge that you're going to spend most of the day dicking around with a terrible team, and the full-throated booing of a fan base with 49 years and counting of self-fulfilling negativity. Well done!

But not to be outcrapped, in the very same game...

2) You are Redskins bystander Jim Zorn, offensive bingo caller Sherman Lewis, or whichever theoretical human calls plays for this train wreck. You are down 27-24 to the Eagles on the road, having blown an eight-point fourth-quarter lead. On first down, QB Jason Campbell is nearly killed by the Eagles pass rush on a slow-developing pass play that goes incomplete. On second down, Campbell and TE Fred Davis fail to connect on a deep post. On 3rd-and-10 from your 15 with 1:33 left, Campbell is barely able to get the ball to WR Antwan Randle-El, who nearly gets the first down to prolong the game, but is tripped up a half a yard from the sticks.

On 4th-and-1 at your own 25 with 1:25 left, you choose to:

a) Run a QB draw to make sure you get the first down, especially since the pass rush has been mostly coming from the edge.

b) Run just a plain draw to RB Quinton Gaither, who has five carries for 32 yards and has looked like your fastest back today.

c) Throw a quick out to TE Davis, who is always open, given that he is a pass catching TE that is playing the Eagles.

d) Honestly, just run it. You need to keep the game alive and give yourself a chance. It's not as if you are completely out of time, or need to do anything more than get 40 yards to give yourself a shot at the tying field goal.

e) Throw a slow developing middle-zone pass to WR Santana Moss because it's not as if the Eagles aren't usually terrific at taking away the No. 1 option, or have been getting a ton of pressure.

If you chose (e), preferably while looking around the stadium like you were trying to find a lost child at the mall, congratulations...you crapped the bed! You've won a game-ending incomplete pass from pressure, yet another terrible loss in a season filled with them, and the perverse happiness of many people in your fan base who are actively rooting against your team at this point—either that, or the sweet embrace of death. Golf clap, whoever you are!

3) You are Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin, or offensive coordinator Bruce Arians. In overtime on the road in Baltimore, you are starting third-string QB Dennis Dixon, who has been nearly picked-off on several occasions late in the game, but has not turned it over. With 10:14 left in overtime after the teams exchanged punts, you have a 3rd-and-5 at midfield. You choose to:

a) Hand it off to RB Rashard Mendenhall, who has 24 carries for 95 yards and has looked strong as of late going against a defense that might be tiring, and knowing that a punt in this situation is not fatal seeing how there are 10 minutes left.

b) Call a QB draw for Dixon, who scored on a 24-yard bootleg to give you the lead in the fourth quarter, and clearly has good quicks.

c) Throw a safe bubble screen to WR Hines Ward or Santonio Holmes, both of whom have been effective this game.

d) Try something mildly tricky, like an end around or shuffle pass, that has a reasonable chance at getting five yards but no massive INT risk.

e) Drop back Dixon in the same kind of formation and passing-play that has almost been picked-off on multiple occasions in the second half, and maybe pass to ice-cold TE Heath Miller (one catch for two yards)

If you chose (e), all while proving that your Super Bowl hangover year means you somehow finish games worse than even Baltimore, congratulations...you crapped the bed! You've won a game-changing interception and return on a terrible mistake by Dixon, the increasing likelihood that you are going to have to sweat out all 17 weeks just to get a wild card, and the knowledge that you could have left B'More absolutely dead and buried with a road win while starting a backup QB, only to let them off the hook. Bravo!

Well, I'm afraid that's all we have time for this week. But remember, with a little fiber, determination and inspiration—or the abject horror that is freakishly invasive Japanese technology meeting your digestive system—you too can... Crap The Bed! Good night, everybody!

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

The Dallas Cowboys are Good, but Something Is Still Missing

John Frascella — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 18:10:46 -0500

...And that something is a someone .

His name is Terrell Owens.

This is where the die-hard, rah-rah traditionalists say, "What are you talking about? The guy is a selfish player, all about himself, and the Cowboys are in first place without him."

Yes, Dallas is 8-3 and atop the NFC East, but anyone—Cowboys fan or not—that believes that Owens' departure is the explanation for their success, is either lying to themselves or doesn't follow Dallas very closely.

While WR2 Miles Austin has enjoyed a refreshing breakout season, WR1 Roy Williams (who was supposed to "replace" Owens) has been a dud, and one of the favorite whipping boys for analysts around the league. Williams makes ill-advised comments just as Owens did, but he doesn't have the statistical production to back it up. Let's go to the numbers to date:

Williams: 26 rec, 444 yards, 4 TD

Owens: 40 rec, 659 yards, 3 TD

All right, so Roy has one more TD than T.O., but T.O. has 14 more receptions and a 215-yard advantage. And here's the kicker: this is one of the worst, if not the worst season of Owens' Hall of Fame career.

In addition, Bills fans have rightfully blamed Dick Jauron and QB Trent Edwards for Owens' numerical decline, as a new head coach and quarterback have immediately returned No. 81 to form.

T.O.'s last two games with QB Ryan Fitzpatrick at the helm: 9 rec 197 yards 1 TD, and 5 rec 96 yards 1 TD. Edwards was horrific as the starter this season, struggling with a lack of arm strength and a stubbornness in regards to Owens.

When you have a receiver of that caliber at your disposal, it's OK to rely on them. If he can single-handedly win games for you, there shouldn't be an intense desire to spread the ball around to multiple targets.

Fitzpatrick, a Harvard man, understands that.

That doesn't mean that all other receivers should be ignored, only that Owens should be leaned upon and force fed if necessary.

So Owens has outproduced Roy Williams despite having to deal with Edwards' ineptitude for too long, and the fact that QB Tony Romo is about fifty times better than both of Buffalo's quarterbacks. Owens may have been an off-the-field distraction in Dallas, but on the field, he and Romo had excellent chemistry. Both put up exceptional numbers during their era as teammates.

As for the current Cowboys, sure they are 8-3, but they are lacking in offensive explosiveness. RBs Marion Barber and Felix Jones have struggled with injuries at different times during the year, TE Jason Witten has been less productive, and WR3 Patrick Crayton is here today, gone tomorrow.

For me to consider this team a serious Super Bowl contender, they would need a WR1 like, oh...Terrell Owens. I like Jerry Jones, but something tells me that this major offseason decision is going to bite him in the behind.

I've been very impressed by Wade Phillips' defensive unit in '09, but a strong defense and average offense isn't going to cut it this year. Not with the Colts, Saints, Vikings, and Patriots around.

I expect the Cowboys to reach the postseason with relative ease, but don't expect them to get very far.

Not without a receiver like No. 81.

(John Frascella is the author of "Theo-logy: How a Boy Wonder Led the Red Sox to the Promised Land," the first and only book centered on Boston's popular GM Theo Epstein. Follow John on Twitter @RedSoxAuthor.)

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Philadelphia Eagles—Washington Redskins Notes

DMtShooter Five Tool Tool — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 16:47:00 -0500

If you didn't know the standings of the teams coming into the game, you'd have thought that the Eagles were the team with the terrible record.

An onside kick, going for it on fourth down twice in the first 12 minutes of game play, two QB draw plays with the backup...it didn't exactly scream out confidence in your personnel. Or that Cap'n Andy was expecting anything but a 60-minute hairpull, despite the Redskins being, well, terrible. And he got exactly what he expected.

Fox pointed out how everyone was playing the run on a third and one QB draw by Michael Vick. In other words, Washington has actually watched the tape of the 2009 Philadelphia Eagles.

In regard to Redskins QB Jason Campbell, I've just never been scared of a QB who reads plays off a wristband. It looks like a little kid who hasn't studied for a test.

How you keep a bad team around: do not defend third down, and make the opponent's touchdowns downright easy. I had hopes of the defense gelling in the stretch run, like they've done many times before in the Reid Era, but it's overstating the case to think they looked like that today. Once the offense turned the tide, perhaps. But they'll need more than that to win playoff games.

Fox cited the Redskins' injuries, and yes, they've been decimated. But it's kind of telling that so many games are lost to bad franchises. You see this a lot in the NBA; guys that find the training room more interesting than the field in a lost year. If it walks like a dog and barks like a dog, and routinely blows fourth quarter leads...

Did you have 10 minutes left in the second quarter for Sav Rocca's first terrible punt of the day in your pool? I had the time right, but the wrong quarter. It's so hard to win that bet. And thanks to Eldra Buckley for a remarkably dumb 15 yard penalty to make that one more memorable. It takes a team wide effort to look like a worse team than the Redskins.

Don't forget that Campbell to Eagles CB Asante Samuel, with two picks in the late going in the second quarter, is your margin of victory today. Yes, Washington is really bad.

With nine seconds left in the half, the Redskins recovered a squib kick and gave themselves a chance at the Hail Mary, but couldn't keep Trent Cole from a speed sack of Campbell. Is there a more dispiriting play for an offense than a sack against prevent coverage? I say no. Or, at least, hope so.

Of course Redskins TE Fred Davis registered his longest career catch and an eventual touchdown today. Can we please draft for this next year, Capn Andy? We finally got that No. 1 WR problem taken care of. Hope springs eternal for a stud LB.

Down to a terrible team with the defense taking third downs off, Fox's Darryl Johnston talked about how the crowd wasn't into the game. Well, when you give up eight of 10 third down conversions, and your laundry is playing its annual inexplicably awful game against the division's poor stepchild, it's not exactly a good thing to watch. Honest. And if I had a dollar for all of the missed tackles today, the blogging would be very lucrative indeed.

Notable: TE Brent Celek not making the play on three straight catchable balls. What is, "What a young and inconsistent offensive team does, Alex?"

Did you enjoy Johnston's mouth job for the Skins offensive line before their fourth false start penalty, followed by a holding call that prevented a first down? I know I did.

After yet another drop by Celek, McNabb was hit while throwing to set up a pick, and we're well in the range of this game being over. Utterly maddening, but at least Washington was too paranoid of turnovers to get the killshot touchdown. Hey, there are coaches that are worse than whatever is managing the Skins these days!

Does any announcing team praise players for moments in plays that are wiped out by penalty more than Fox? Perhaps head trauma is contagious.

McNabb finally stopped throwing it to Celek, and the result was three straight throws to the surprisingly emerging Avant, two of which netted 68 yards. Unfortunately, that also led to Avant being on the ground. Man, I hate Redskins games.

Vick on a rollout missed Celek by a mile, and I'm pretty sure that Eagle Fan has had just about enough of Vick by now. McCoy then took over for a screen, run, and first, followed by a huge hole for Weaver to get it to the one. Eldra Buckley is the short yardage back of the week that isn't Leonard Weaver, and two straight plays get a big fat nothing.

The utterly unsurprising play action to Celek failed, and yes, Eagle Fan, you have seen this movie before; thankfully, a Skins penalty kept this from being fourth down. I want to play poker with Andy Reid. I'm pretty sure I could get a read on him. Or that he'd keep asking the table what hands are the best.

Finally, Green tried Buckley off to the side, and the left side executed for six. An utterly maddening timeout to discuss the two-point conversion call followed, because the team clearly couldn't think ahead for a wildly important play call, but Shady McCoy refused to let that happen with a fantastic play for the conversion on a shuffle pass.

Just unreal balance there, play of the day. If he doesn't make it, maybe Green still wins this game, but I'm not sure; it brought the Mo Men Tum in a big way.

Good kickoff coverage continued the wave, and after a ridiculously easy deep out, the defense got a stop. The offense then did everything but win it by taking four minutes off the clock and setting up the chip shot field goal. Notable on the drive were a number of strong runs from McCoy and Weaver, then a fantastic sideline fly to Maclin; there is no doubt in my mind that Donovan's playing some of his best ball ever right now.

On a third and five, he throws a perfect dart to Maclin that moved the chains, ate three Washington timeouts, and got the ball in close, and he also had the presence of mind to slide on a failed rollout to keep the clock moving. Akers converted to give them the lead, 27-24, with 1:48 left.

After an outstanding kickoff from Akers, and coverage from Moises Fokou, the Skins started at their own 16 with 104 seconds left and no timeouts. Heavy pressure on Campbell forced an incomplete on first, as Cole continued to own his matchup.

Davis was open on a deep slant on second and ten, but couldn't bring it in. A blitz doesn't quite get there on third and ten, but a saving tackle forced a fourth down, and the Skins inexplicably seemed to forget that they needed a yard to keep the game alive.

The refs turned a blind eye to a possible roughing the passer call, mostly, one suspects, because they were too offended by the stupidity to give them another chance, and that was that. 27-24, Green.

As with any escape win, especially at home, it's hard to feel too great about the game, if for no other reason then there was a disturbing amount of things that need to get better, and shouldn't look like that in late November. Vick, Rocca, Celek, Trotter, and Reid all had big lapses in this game that would have just killed them against a good team.

But a win is a win is a win, Redskin Fan continues to have Big Misery, and they are still in contention for the division and wildcard. There's also the fact that their QB is playing some of the best football of his life, and so long as that's true, they've got a puncher's chance, especially if the skill players make plays. Moving on...

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Washington Redskins Money Sits Against Philadelphia Eagles

Jarrett Carter — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:44:28 -0500

Courtesy of a @RickMaese Tweet , we discover that Albert Haynesworth, Clinton Portis, and DeAngelo Hall are all out against the Philadelphia Eagles today. Translation, the Redskins’ biggest signees are all inactive, thus rendering any hope for a close game useless and non-gratifying.

Fortunately, these are all legitimate injuries; none of the “my hamstring-I got migraines-turf toe” variety. And that means that no one has really given up on making this season respectable for Washington fans.

Sadly, it doesn’t matter much if they players don’t want to conceded the inevitable. Everybody’s waiting on Charlie Weis to come to Washington anyway.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Keys to the Game: Eagles vs. Washington Redskins, Part 2

Bob Cunningham — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 13:06:00 -0500

Like last week, this is absolutely a must-win game for the Birds. In fact, every game from now on is a must-win game because teams like the Packers and Falcons are just waiting for the Eagles to lose and gain more of a foothold in the NFC wildcard race.

I say the "wildcard" race, but the Eagles are still looking at the possibility of a Week 17 showdown in Dallas determining who wins the NFC East. Barring a monumental collapse from the Cardinals or Vikings, the NFC East is the only contested division left in the conference.

But with the Giants losing to the Broncos in embarrassing fashion, the Eagles have a real shot to move up in the division and keep pace with the Cowboys. A win against the 'Skins would give Donovan McNabb and company only one loss in the division with two games left to play—one against the Giants, and of course the season finale with the Cowboys.

But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Let's look at what the Eagles need to do to avoid a letdown and complete the sweep of the 'Skins.

Don't Be Afraid to Run Up the Middle

Albert Haynesworth will be a game-time decision, but whether he plays or not, Andy Reid cannot be afraid to attack the middle. The 'Skins will be expecting to see a lot of stretch and off-tackle plays with LeSean McCoy because of Haynesworth’s presence, but I believe running right at him is the better way to go.

Even if Haynesworth plays, he'll be dinged up and less than 100 percent. So if Reid just tells Jamaal Jackson and either guard (depending on which way the play is going) to double-team him, the line should be able to open up some holes up the middle.

That would then leave McCoy one-on-one with London Fletcher who should not able to bring down a shifty McCoy in the open field. I'm not saying Fletcher won't get his hands on McCoy from time to time, but at least seven out of 10 times McCoy should be able to shake him and keep moving.

Don't Lose Sight of Antwaan Randle El

It's not because I think he's a great receiver, but because he's the key to any trick play that they may try. He has a background as a quarterback, so using him to throw the ball just makes sense.

With the Eagles' aggressive style of defense, running a few trick plays would make a lot of sense, and would probably work. It's the risk you take when you have a defense that swarms and attacks like the Eagles' defense does, but as long as you keep an eye on Randle El, the defense should be able to sniff it out.

For instance, if he just stands at the line of scrimmage and doesn't seem interested in running a pattern, it's probably because he's got some other assignment. A double-pass, wide receiver pass, or some funky reverse is most likely.

Also, expect the Redskins to try and use the Wildcat this week more than they have in the past.

Get Creative With Mike Vick and the Wildcat

Vick's long run last week, I think, instilled some confidence in the coaching staff. Offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg told everyone to expect to see more of Vick this week, but then again, he's been saying that every week.

This week, however, could be different. In the weeks prior, Vick hasn't shown a whole lot to warrant playing time. But against the Bears, he was able to break off a 34-yard run to set up an Eagles field goal.

He seemed to lack the speed he once had, but he appeared as shifty as ever, freezing a defensive back in his tracks as he ran around him.

I'm not part of the crowd that believes the Vick experiment is a failure if he doesn't make an impact this year. In fact, I don't think it's possible to fail with Vick. He was brought in as a backup quarterback who can do some other things, so there was only a factor of reward and very little risk.

That said, I do think that Mornhinweg and Reid are wasting the man's talents. Use him when the offense is struggling, not when they're rolling, and I think you'll see a guy who can make a clutch play to keep a drive alive and the offense moving.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Can Washington Redskins Cover Against Philadelphia Eagles?

steve tisch — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 23:03:06 -0500

The Washington Redskins are at the bottom of the NFC East standings and the Philadelphia Eagles are near the top and the two meet Sunday.

The Eagles are nine-point home faves but in the last 10 games overall between the two, it is the Redskins with the edge against the spread, covering seven out of 10 times.

The Total is set at 40.5 and in Washington’s last eight games when an underdog of above eight points, it has taken the over six times.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

2009 NFL Season: Week 12 Thanksgiving Day Special

C Douglas Baker — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 19:19:50 -0500

Introduction

After the New York Giants went 5-0, many pundits had them ranked as the best team in the NFL in their power rankings. I said then that they were at best a mediocre team. I may not always be right, but I was right about that.

The traditional football games on Thanksgiving Day featured two matchups that really were not that compelling to the average football fan. The still lowly Detroit Lions hosted the solid but struggling Green Bay Packers, while the Dallas Cowboys hosted the usually pathetic Oakland Raiders.

Most thought the games would be blowouts and they certainly lived up to the tripe. Green Bay had no trouble rolling over Detroit, and Oakland proved to be no match for Dallas.

Many have wondered if the Detroit Lions should no longer be hosting a nationally televised game on Thanksgiving given their long-standing lack of quality teams. A Thanksgiving Day matchup should be a marquee game between two quality teams, right?

I disagree though. The Detroit Lions have been hosting a Thanksgiving Day game since 1934. That’s 75 years of tradition for the Lions, sometimes a good team, lately not, hosting a game on this holiday.

The National Football League is built on tradition and after 75 years I don’t see a reason to break that tradition now. Despite not being a great team now, presumably the Lions will be relevant again.

And for me, watching any professional football game is enjoyable. I always know I’ll see the Lions host somebody on this day and I look forward to it every year.

Green Bay Packers over Detroit Lions, 34-12

As expected this game was not even close. After Green Bay fumbled the opening kickoff leading to a quick Detroit touchdown, the game was basically over. Detroit’s offense never did much else, while Matthew Stafford threw four picks.

Green Bay played an all around solid game, with Donald Driver catching seven passes for 142 yards and a touchdown. This included a 68 yard grab in the first quarter to set up Green Bay’s first touchdown. Cornerback Charles Woodson had his second sterling game with two interceptions, one that he returned for a touchdown in garbage time.

I’m not sure why the Lions started rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford who played with a separated left shoulder. I think he has the potential to be the franchise quarterback for the Lions and it just doesn’t seem worth risking further damage to his shoulder at this point in the season.

This game turned out pretty much as expected. It was a good game for Green Bay to get back to winning and try to jumpstart an attempt to make the playoffs as Wild Card team. They have a long way to go for that.

MVP: Donald Driver, WR

Dallas Cowboys over Oakland Raiders, 24-7

The NFC East used to be considered the toughest division in the NFL.

Not anymore.

Right now the storied franchise of the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and Philadelphia Eagles are middle-of-the-road teams, at best. The Washington Redskins are abysmal and shouldn’t even be in the conversation.

The race for the NFC East is going down the stretch and Dallas needs to keep winning with the Giants and Eagles right in the mix. Pundits have even taken to calling Tony Romo not just an average quarterback, but a bad one. He deserves it given the way he has played this year.

In this game Dallas had no trouble putting the Raiders away. Romo had a very good outing and wide receiver Miles Austin was again fantastic. He had seven catches for 145 yards and touchdown to lead the Dallas Cowboys offense.

On the other side of the ball, the Raiders started fourth-year quarterback Bruce Gradkowski over the bust of a No. 1 overall draft pick JaMarcus Russell.

Gradkowski, frankly, is never going to be a particularly good NFL quarterback, but he is gutsy and had didn’t play that badly against the Cowboys. The Raiders were just simply overmatched.

Dallas, like Green Bay, really needed an easy win and to get their offense rolling after a very pedestrian performance against the Redskins last week.

MVP: Miles Austin, WR

Denver Broncos over New York Giants, 26-6

This was the marquee matchup of the day which most thought we be a closely contested ball game. Both teams have been struggling a great deal the past month, with the Broncos losing four-straight games and the Giants losing the last five out of six.

Too bad it was on the NFL Network. Many football fans, as a result, didn’t have access to the game.

It was an interesting game but not much was missed.

I actually thought the Giants would win this game but they never bothered to show up.

They were pathetic.

The Giants, on their second offensive snap of the game, had to call a timeout to avoid a delay of game penalty. They followed this up with a minus-two yard run by Brandon Jacobs. That basically set the tone for the game as the Giants offense seemed to have stayed in New York.

I watched Brandon Jacobs very closely in this game because he has been struggling of late.

What I noticed was disturbing.

Even when he got into a good hole he didn’t have the same burst of speed and power to make a good gain like he has in the past. I don’t know if it’s because he has been injured a bit or some other ailment, but he definitely is not the same runner he has been in the past.

There were holes that he got to that Chris Johnson or Adrian Peterson, or last years Brandon Jacobs for that matter, would have turned into a long gain. Something is missing or has gone awry there.

Meanwhile a lot has been said of the struggles of the Giants offensive line. They played reasonably well at all times, more so on running plays. The announcers kept saying they were getting beat physically but they most looked confused by the Broncos tricky defensive alignments than they were physically dominated.

But the Broncos defense played extremely well. Elvis Dumervil had two sacks and a forced fumble, safety Brian Dawkins was a menace all over the field, and the Denver secondary, led by Champ Bailey, blanketed the Giants’ receivers.

In fact the quarterback pressures could often be attributed to superior defensive back play more so than the defensive line dominating the line of scrimmage. But it was a very well played game by the Denver defense all around.

The Giants defense didn’t play terribly but again, they weren’t beaten physically as much as the Broncos just outplayed them.

Case in point, if you watched Giants’ defensive end Osi Umenyiora against the Broncos' left tackle, Ryan Clady, he often got good penetration and sometimes pressure on Kyle Orton. But he was completely shut out of the game.

Meanwhile Denver’s rookie running back Knowshon Moreno played very well with a shifty, slithery style of running that netted yards when most backs would have been shut down.

I have seen Denver play several times this year and I have not seen these moves by Moreno before. Maybe it’s because I wasn’t watching him at his best or that he has been injured, but now I see why people are so excited about this guy.

He has a unique running style that avoids big contact and can make the most out of small openings. And, of course, wide receiver Brandon Marshall was making some sick one handed catches.

But frankly, at the end of the day I am not sure whether Denver looked so good because the Giants were just plain awful, or if they have come out of their funk. They certainly looked much better than they have the past few times I’ve seen them.

I do know one thing, however. The Giants appear to be on the way down and out. See ya!

The MVP could really go to Dumervil, Dawkins, or Bailey. I am going with Champ Bailey because I thought it was the Denver pass coverage that was the key to their success on defense.

MVP: Champ Bailey, CB

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Connecting the Dots: Giants Stand to Gain from Potential Notre Dame Loss

Kyle McMorrow — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 11:12:56 -0500

The New York Giants' loss Thursday night to the floundering Denver Broncos has finally put perspective on the roller coaster ride that is the Giants season—they're not good.

Whether the bottom has fallen out of a team with unlimited potential, or they just never had it to start, is insignificant at this point because one thing has become apparent: The Giants offense is not the villain but the victim of head-scratching play calling.

It is easy to recognize the talent the Giants possess on the offensive side of the ball. Brandon Jacobs was one of the league's top running backs last season, Eli Manning is a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback, and Steve Smith is one of the league's leading wide receivers, so the finger of blame does not point to the field, but rather to the sideline at the one and only Kevin Gilbride.

The offensive coordinator, who has donned the nickname Kevin Killdrive from disgruntled fans, put his weaknesses on national display this Thanksgiving when he was easily outmatched, out-thought, and charictaristically continued to play for the field goal in the red zone.

But this article is not to point out Gilbride's play-calling or question his packages, but rather to recognize that his era has reigned past its welcome in New York and the changing of the guard gears need to be put in motion.

While a midseason move would be a drastic measure and highly unlikely, the blueprint for the future needs an architect, and that architect's name is Charlie Weis.

The man who once served under Bill Belichick as an offensive coordinator for the New England Patriots tried to branch out and become his own boss; we all know how well that's going for him down at Notre Dame. With his struggles a national story on a day to day basis, and four straight losses to Navy, Connecticut, Pittsburgh, and now Stanford, Weis may very well be looking at his last season with the Fighting Irish.

If there is any doubt this marriage could work, it would have to lie with his unavailability at the current moment and not with his qualifications. The former Bill Parcells assistant has been a successful offensive coordinator with the New York Jets and New England Patriots, helping the Jets to a fourth-ranked offense in 1997 and the Patriots to three championships from 2000-2004.

It is obvious he can perform at the highest level, and unlike at Notre Dame, he would not be asked to run the ship, but rather steer it in the right direction.

But the Giants don't really have a track record of letting coordinators go. In years past New York's assistants have gone on to bigger job opportunities such as John Fox and Steve Spagnuolo, and while Kevin Gilbride was a "finalist" for the Oakland Raiders position this season, it doesn't seem as though he will be leaving New York on his own accord.

If the Giants are serious about putting points on the board on a consistent basis they will have to consider letting go of a Super Bowl-winning coordinator.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

How the Giants' Biggest Strength Has Become Their Kryptonite

David Geller — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 11:03:43 -0500

For the past few seasons, the New York Giants' bread and butter has been their offensive line and pass rush.

Now, it appears that their bread has gone stale and the butter has been sitting in a busted refrigerator for over a year.

Tom Coughlin came to the Giants with an agenda. He started coaching in a different generation but knew that the key to winning laid with the big men.

A stellar pass rush coupled with a tone-setting offensive line could keep a team in any game, regardless of overall talent disparity.

Sure enough, Coughlin had achieved his goal merely one year into his tenure. After paving the way for a dominant Tiki Barber, the offensive line proved its legitimacy by allowing Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, or Derrick Ward to achieve success of their own.

Additionally, the starting five on the offensive line went to battle together every game from opening day of 2007 until a Sunday night meeting with the Arizona Cardinals roughly a month ago.

Simultaneously, defensive line coach Mike Waufle was quietly developing his own arsenal in the trenches.

After being drafted in 2003, Osi Umenyiora progressively improved until an explosion in 2005. Opposite of future Hall-of-Fame end Michael Strahan, he sacked the quarterback 14.5 times en route to his first Pro Bowl appearance.

During that season, another project began. A slim third-round pick out of Notre Dame by the name of Justin Tuck began his quest for NFL recognition behind two elite defensive ends.

After riding the pine and renting out a piece of the rehab center in his first two seasons, Tuck made his mark in 2007 with 10 sacks and a fat contract extension.

But his mark on the team was never more apparent than when he tortured Tom Brady throughout the Super Bowl that season with two sacks and multiple pressures.

But as is life in the professional football, times have changed. Five seasons is an eternity in the NFL, and many of the linemen who have become household names for Big Blue appear to be going downhill.

Rich Seubert has admittedly struggled with a shoulder injury he suffered in training camp. Kareem McKenzie has had countless nagging injuries since 2008. Shaun O’Hara has been butting heads with the opponent’s biggest players for nearly 10 seasons.

The winds have shifted for Big Blue’s offensive line, and now the results are reflecting it.

Jacobs has received a heap of criticism for his startling drop off in yards per carry, but it is more of a reflection of the offensive line than anything else.

All of a sudden, this unit can’t produce any penetration. It’s impossible to expect Jacobs to run at his 2007 rate when there are no holes to run through.

Meanwhile, on the defensive side, the pass rush has been relatively non-existent. More importantly, mainstays up the middle such as Fred Robbins and Barry Cofield have yet to be heard from this season, and we are quickly coming up on December.

Rocky Bernard has proven to be a worthless signing and Chris Canty has yet to patrol the defensive tackle spot due to his leg injuries.

This is likely because the Giants needed some semblance of an impact from their prized 2009 offseason acquisition, and it is too late for him to learn a new position in a new defense.

As opposed to the Giants offensive line, the defensive front is conducive for running attacks. Too bad, it’s the opponent’s running game that is the beneficiary. Cutback lanes have been prevalent, and running backs have been able to run outside with ease.

With five games to go, the Giants find themselves in a similar position as they did following Thanksgiving weekend 2006.

Mathias Kiwanuka let go of Vince Young to cap off their third straight loss heading into a showdown with Dallas. Despite both teams going in opposite directions, the Giants were still within a last-second field goal of beating their division rivals.

At this point, it may not even matter. If neither line gets going, the Giants have no chance of making the playoffs. What was once the Giants' biggest strength may ultimately prove to be their downfall for 2009.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

New York Giants: What We Really Know About Their Collapse

Craig Santucci — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 01:18:33 -0500

Giants fans had hoped that the offensive spark displayed last week versus Atlanta would ignite this team to a return to dominance in the second half of the season. Instead, every mistake and miscue that was made over the four game loosing streak was displayed for the entire nation to see on Thanksgiving.

The Giants have collapsed and the fan base was given a dose of reality tonight. The four game loosing streak was no fluke, you can stop blaming injuries. This team is just not that good. So what went wrong from 2008 to 2009?

This is what we do know.

1. The Defensive Coordinator

Bill Sheridan has ruined this defense. Sheridan has taken Steve Spagnuolo's league leading sack machine to the WORST RANKED red zone defense in the league. All in one year.

Did anyone see Chris Canty in pass coverage against the Broncos? Has anyone seen Osi Umenyiora or Justin Tuck in pass coverage this season? Yes, our passing rushing specialists are now required to cover tight ends instead of rushing the quarterbacks.

The under-sized Broncos defense executed misdirection stunts all night with success; however one of the "best defensive lines" in football was nowhere to be found.

The Giants defensive front should be taking control of any football game. Bill Sheridan must be dismissed.

2. Offensive Coordinator

Kevin Gilbride has taken away any swagger this offense once had and all but dissolved the "identity" of this Giants football team. Where is the smash mouth football that this team is known for?

The in-your-face running attack of the New York Giants is nonexistent.

Brandon Jacobs is not getting enough carries and Gilbride MUST stop calling the draw play. Wake up, Gilbride.

It has become predictable and everyone knows what you're calling—including the defense your facing. The play calling has been embarrassing!

3. Brandon Jacobs

A 260-pound tail back should not be taken down so easily. Jacobs is all but shying away from contact and is being taken down with ease. Arm tackles should never bring this guy down.

Where is the Earl Campbell, Eric Dickerson, Eddie George-style of smash mouth football this guy used to display. His speed is all but gone and his ferociousness has not been seen once this year. He is missing the holes and blocks on a regular basis. He is shell of his former self.

4. Offensive Line

Are they just a year older and a year slower? Because this group is playing down right terrible. The under-sized front four of the Denver Broncos out-muscled, and embarrassed the Giants offensive line. They were pushed off the ball on numerous plays and out-smarted on more than half the snaps.

5. Aaron Ross

What happened to our promising first-round draft pick out of Texas?

Everyone was talking about a break-out year. Yet Ross has all but disappeared from the team and seems to be either in the dog house or on the way out of town.

His injured hamstring held him off the field for what seemed like five weeks too long and now when the Giants need an impact player with great coverage and tackling skills...he is nowhere to be found.

With Dallas, Philadelphia, Washington and Carolina looming, it could be a 7-9 season unless something amazing happens.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Random Thanksgiving NFL Game Notes

DMtShooter Five Tool Tool — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 23:29:00 -0500

I didn't have complete attention to the second and third games on the day, as I was hosting in-laws and wrangling kids, but here goes.

Cowboys RB Tashard Choice seems to have the 2008 Felix Jones role of looking good on limited carries.

This means that he'll get too much hype as a breakout candidate in 2010 and under-deliver, but honestly, if I managed the Cowboys, you'd see a lot less Marion Barber.

The Raiders actually looked like a football team for portions of this game today, but when your QB is Bruce Gradkowski and your WRs are a half dozen guys who won't be in the league in five years, you are not exactly working with a net.

I suppose even the greats are allowed to have off days, but has the Nnamdi Asomugha Era ended? Dallas WR Miles Austin had a monster day today, and it wasn't a case of Asomugha working on Roy Williams; many of the plays were in front of the man.

Considering how much Austin has been erased in the last few weeks against other top corners, you have to wonder if the Nnamdi Era is starting to end. And just when I had finally learned how to spell his name. I think.

I've been waiting all year for Giants RB Brandon Jacobs to show up and play well. I think we can stop waiting. If you want a power back to dance in the hole and lose yards, he's your man.

Broncos WR Brandon Marshall may be a diva, a bonehead, and a team cancer. He might also be the best in the game, at least when he's bringing the "A" game. He made a one-handed catch on a sideline fly pattern tonight that was sick, sick, sick.

The Broncos were at home, playing crisply, with good defense and special teams, against a Giants team that didn't seem interested.

And in the fourth, they were only up 10 points. You can keep your Game Manager QBs, folks...but at least QB Kyle Orton was able to hit a ridiculously wide open Brandon Stokely for the clinching TD.

I went 2-1 on picks today, and I'd like to apologize for the one. The Giants came into this game whining about the trip and schedule, and with a terrible red-zone defense and troublesome at best running game, I should have gotten over my Orton hate and gone with the home dogs.

From having watched this game tonight (I don't get NFLN, but being close enough to NY to be considered that market, I did get the game), I could not have been less impressed. It's possible that the Giants are worse then the Redskins, really.

A small but nice note for Eagle Fans: Brian Dawkins played great in this game, and so did Correll Buckhalter. I'm imagining that they were pretty up for this game. And will be when they come to Philadelphia in a few weeks.

Bronco RB Knowshon Moreno is the real deal, and TE Tony Scheffler has surprising quicks for a big white guy. Either that, or the Giants are just terrible. Very, very possible.

Finally, with the loss, the Giants fall to 6-5, which means that an Eagle win on Sunday gives them a game lead over them for the wild card, and a possible two-game lead over the next best record (Atlanta).

If you are thinking that the NFC is entirely about the top two seeds right now, you'd be absolutely right, but a lot can change in two months.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Thanksgiving Football Equals Americana

Lloyd Vance — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 01:01:11 -0500

The Masters of Disaster (MOD) from a Turkey Bowl circa 1991

Football on Thanksgiving is an “Autumn Ritual” to me just like the phrase, “Can you please pass the gravy.”

The game has aligned itself beautifully with the greatest holiday ever, in my opinion, and it provides an opportunity for fellowship by friends and family around America’s Game.

“The Thanksgiving games are quite a tradition, not just in Detroit, but for America,” says NFL Network analyst Steve Mariucci, a Michigan native who participated in three Thanksgiving Day games as the Lions’ head coach in 2003-05.

“I learned firsthand about the excitement in Detroit for the game. You enjoy playing in front of the home crowd. It’s special.”

Whether attending a hometown rivalry game...in my town growing up it is Abington (my alma mater) vs. friendly rival Cheltenham that goes back to 1915 (see all of the scores from this rivalry )...or playing in a “Turkey Bowl” touch football game with friends/family, or just watching the now three NFL games and other college games, Americans like myself cannot get enough Turkey Day football.

My most vivid memories of Thanksgiving are attending the hometown rivalry game in the early afternoon then going over to my paternal grandmother’s house for a celebration like none other with food like turkey, macaroni and cheese, stuffing, cranberry, candy yams and many other favorites while having good fellowship over food and, of course, football.

When I was younger my grandmother’s television was a big cabinet black/white set and I vividly remember watching the Detroit Lions (usually lost) and Dallas Cowboys (usually won) play many Thanksgiving games on that set.

The earliest Thanksgiving game that I can remember was the Chicago Bears against the Detroit Lions in the Pontiac Silverdome November. 27, 1980.

I remember this game, because Vince Evans was at quarterback for the Bears (rare to see an African-American quarterback at the time) and the great Walter Payton rushed 18 times for 123 yards, and I think he even threw a pass.

The ending was everything, as the Bears won an overtime thriller 23-17 when Bears kick returner Dave Williams returned the overtime kickoff for a touchdown, completing a Bears’ comeback from a 17-3 deficit.

My favorite Thanksgiving game of course involved the classic broadcasting team of John Madden and Pat Summerall commentating a Turkey Bowl classic on Nov. 23, 1989 in Texas Stadium.

This game dubbed “Bounty Bowl I” featured a Philadelphia Eagles 27-0 shellacking win over the hated Dallas Cowboys, which left me over-the-top giddy.

My joy came from the fact that as a one-time long-suffering Eagles follower, I finally got to stick it to the many stinking Cowboys’ fans in my family (brother and many cousins).

Funny thing about Philadelphia, there are many “never have been to Texas” Dallas Cowboys fans who year after year love to talk about Super Bowl rings to hometown Eagles fans.

However this 1989 NFC East afternoon rivalry game was something extra special for me to watch as the Birds won handily and the Cowboys turncoats in my grandmother’s suburban Philadelphia home had to eat some crow with their turkey that day.

The story of the game was Buddy Ryan’s Eagles defense knocking the stuffing of Troy Aikman, as they seemed to sack him a million times. The game ended with my favorite player Reggie White eating the ceremonial Madden Turkey Leg as the game’s MVP.

2009 NFL Thanksgiving Schedule

Green Bay Packers (6-4) at Detroit Lions (2-8), 12:30 PM (FOX)

Yes, everyone just like going to your grandmother’s house on Thanksgiving, the nation still must endure watching the usually pitiful Detroit Lions on TV on Turkey Day, even though it seems like forever.

This year, in an old-time Thanksgiving Day traditional match-up, the Packers will travel to Detroit to face the Lions who maybe without QB Matthew Stafford (shoulder) and WR Calvin “Megatron” Johnson (hand, knee).

Oakland Raiders (3-7) at Dallas Cowboys (7-3), 4:15 PM (CBS)

Naturally America’s Holiday, Thanksgiving, will feature “America’s Team” as the Cowboys take on the dangerous Oakland Raiders in Jerry Jones’ billion-dollar playpen. We will see if Turkey Day will be Cowboys QB Tony Romo’s last hurrah before his usual December swoon.

New York Giants (6-4) at Denver Broncos (6-4) , 8:20 PM (NFLN) — The G-Men continue their quest to return to the team that started 5-0 this season as they travel to the Rockies for a huge Thanksgiving night game against the Broncos.

This game will surely have playoff implications in both the AFC and NFC as both were fast starters, but have shown inconsistency of late.

Lloyd’s Leftovers

Lets talk about seating arrangements at the 2009 NFL Thanksgiving table. At the “Adult table ” for playmakers are Vikings QB Brett Favre, Titans RB Chris Johnson, Colts head coach Jim Caldwell, Colts QB Peyton Manning, Eagles WR DeSean Jackson, Bills safety Jairus Byrd, Bears WR Johnny Knox, Vikings RB Adrian Peterson, Saints QB Drew Brees, and Broncos DE Elvis Dumervil. Spots at the “Kids table ” for disappointments should be seated NY Jets QB Mark Sanchez, Cowboys WR Roy Williams, Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell, Eagles O-lineman Stacy Andrews, Bears QB Jay Cutler, Giants DB C.C Brown, Texans kicker Kris Brown, the Steelers’ coverage units, Bears DT Tommie Harris, and Broncos backup QB Chris Simms.
There was a time that Thanksgiving football was defined in the African-American community by rivalry games like Lincoln vs Howard. Here is an excerpt from a piece that I wrote on the subject… “The “outside world” of major white college football may have had traditional rivalries like Harvard-Yale, Ohio State-Michigan, and Notre Dame-Army. But to most African-American football fans those contests had nothing on the annual Thanksgiving Day clash between the mighty men of Lincoln (PA) and their rival school Howard University. After their initial meeting in 1894, the annual Lincoln-Howard Thanksgiving game quickly became an autumn ritual.” Check out the rest of the piece .
I am often asked, “Why are we subjected to the stinking Detroit Lions and hated Dallas Cowboys every Thanksgiving??” The reason is “Carpe diem” as these two teams both had the vision of matching College Football on America’s Holiday and seized opportunities to host football games when everyone else was afraid the crowds would stay away. The Lions were the first in 1934 and the Cowboys followed suit in 1966. The NFL also added a rotating third game in 2006 (Chiefs winning 19-10 over the Broncos) on Turkey Day to help boost their channel NFL Network. Our friends over at Mental Floss give some great background on the subject of NFL football on Thanksgiving .
The oldest high school Turkey Day Game rivalry is in Massachusetts between Needham and Wellesley, dating back to 1882. Find out everything about Thanksgiving Football .
You can now see the results for every NFL Thanksgiving game going back to the 1920’s (courtesy of the Pro Footballl Hall of Fame )

Lloyd Vance is a Sr. NFL Writer for Taking It to the House and an award-winning member of the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA)

Posted in 2009 Thanksgiving Games, Dallas Cowboys, Detroit Lions, Thanksgiving Football, Thanksgiving Rivalries Tagged: 2009 NFL Thanksgiving Games, Dallas Cowboys, Detroit Lions, Football, NFL, Sports, Thanksgiving Football

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Daily Haze: Thanksgiving Day Advice

Michael McNeil — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 06:06:59 -0500

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, an annual celebration of food, family and football. Along with, of course, giving thanks to those who make life in America today possible and those who have done so in the past. Make sure to give thanks.

We do plenty of fantasy football advice around here—actually that is pretty much all we do—but today I wanted to share some non-fantasy advice. The regular fantasy football links are below, but here are a few good Thanksgiving-related reads:

If you are going to fry a turkey tomorrow—is there a better way?—make sure to read up on some turkey frying safety first. [Lifehacker]

Watch out for those grumpy, football-hating deer when playing your annual family touch football game tomorrow. [Shutdown Corner]

Times continue to be tough in this country for many Americans, but there still are plenty of ways we all can give a little something this holiday season . [Get Rich Slowly]

If you are going to brave all the crazy shoppers on Black Friday, the least you can do is arm yourself with the Black Friday ads . [BlackFriday.info]

Cooking a perfect bird can be a challenge for the best of chefs. Impress your family with these nine secrets to cooking a perfect turkey [Dumb Little Man]

And if something does go wrong tomorrow (God forbid), make sure to have an emergency holiday preparation kit on hand and at the ready. [Bob Vila]

Here are today's great reads:

If the absence of Ahmad Bradshaw does not help Brandon Jacobs' fantasy value , nothing will. [FanHouse]

Target report highlights from week 11, including the re-emergence of Mario Manningham in the Giants' passing game. [Pancake Blocks]

Mike Bell and Fred Jackson were two of the hottest names at the beginning of the season. After a midseason cool-down, both are now hot waiver wire commodities once again. [CBSSports.com]

Early fantasy rankings for all of the week 12 action . Drew Brees vs. Tom Brady on Monday Night Football should be something special to watch. [Roto Arcade]

Waiver wire advice for those of you in individual defensive player leagues. [Kilroyz Krystal Ball]

If you are a Tweeter, follow The Hazean on Twitter . If it is a good chuckle you desire, check out The Hazean's Facebook page . Remember to follow (Twitter) and become a fan (Facebook) of The Hazean on both popular social networking sites.

If it is just more solid reading material that you crave, check out The Hazean's Google Reader Shared Items page.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Total Team Effort Earned Philadelphia Eagles' D an A vs. Chicago Bears

Lou DiPietro — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 23:09:32 -0500

I posted last week that Eagles’ defensive coordinator Sean McDermott had a chance to earn his stripes last weekend. Working with a patchwork squad, he would truly have to coach them to victory.

Consider those stripes earned…and it was a total team effort.

From sack machine Trent Cole all the way down to the twenty-fourth man, everyone on the Eagles’ defense pitched in and made it happen.

But to borrow a page from the NHL, the Eagles’ three defensive stars of the game are guys whose names you almost never hear or see in the box score.

There would be several honorable mentions, of course. Jeremiah Trotter, for instance made his first start in three years and used his much-maligned cover skills to make a great open field tackle that stalled a drive.

But the third star would go collectively to the secondary, specifically the backups. First up are Ramzee Robinson and Jack Ikegwuonu, who didn’t see much defensive PT but made contributions on special teams. This allowed Dimitri Patterson to focus on having to be the nickel corner.

That help was invaluable, as thanks to Sheldon Brown’s nagging hamstring and a neck burner that kept Asante Samuel on the sidelines for most of the second half, Patterson became the top corner by default. He responded with four tackles and a game almost no one would’ve expected at one corner.

Nor would they have expected the game Macho Harris played. With Quintin Demps out, he was the only depth at safety besides Quentin Mikell and Sean Jones; but because Ellis Hobbs is on IR, Harris has also become the top option for kick returns.

If that wasn’t enough, he ended up spending much of the second half playing his college position of cornerback. With all that on his plate, Macho had a swell game—four tackles, one defensed pass and a 25-yard average on returns.

All in all, a good night for guys who didn’t figure to see much action this season.

The second star would go to defensive tackle Antonio Dixon, who blocked a Robbie Gould field goal early in the fourth quarter. It was the only tally Dixon registered on the stat sheet, but it was perhaps the biggest play of the game.

His block prevented Chicago from taking a 23-17 lead and gave the ball to the Birds at their own 38. Free from the pressure of absolutely having to get in the end zone, the Eagles drove and scored what would end up being the winning touchdown less than six game minutes later.

But if that wasn’t the biggest play of the game, the one made by our top star with less than a minute left.

That would be linebacker Tracy White, another special teams ace who threw a joker into Jay Cutler’s deck on Chicago’s final offensive play.

White, who was in the game in lieu of Trotter, Joe Mays or Moise Fokou because of the zone coverage scheme, did something that the Eagles have had trouble doing all season—stop the tight end.

But he did more than that. On a second-and-10 play with 52 seconds remaining, White saw something. He read the route Greg Olsen was running and met the ball a split second before it got into Olson’s arms, tipping it away.

Sean Jones came down with it, and the rest is history.

It was the second good play White had made in that short drive, the first coming when he assisted Will Witherspoon on a tackle that stopped Olson from rumbling for 20 or 30 yards over the middle.

White has all of 15 tackles and two passes defensed this year, but none of them were as huge as the pair he flopped to seal the game for the Birds.

So, yes, it was a total team effort for the Eagles, and they got the job done. With even more roster flux on the defensive side—Ikegwuonu was waived and replaced with Bengals practice squad refugee Geoffrey Pope—it’s a good thing they face another struggling offense in the Washington Redskins this Sunday.

But if last weekend is any indication, Sean McDermott will have his gang up to the task.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Forget His Hands—Roy Williams' Heart Called into Question

Phillip Brennan — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:24:43 -0500

If you were to unfurl the scroll of criticisms directed towards Cowboys wide receiver Roy Williams, you would end up with a list longer than Schindler's.

He's lazy; he's slow; he doesn't run routes well; he's got big clown feet; et cetera.

You name it, and it's probably been said about the beleaguered receiver at some point.

Media talking heads and fans have a habit of turning pimples into boils.

However, the latest accusation is perhaps the most disturbing, if for no other reason the fact it came from one of Williams' NFL peers.

If you haven't heard already, Redskins safety LaRon Landry unequivocally called into question Williams' heart.

Landry had some candid thoughts regarding Williams as relayed by Matt Terl, writer for the Redskins' official blog, while discussing with Landry his effect on Williams after the Redskins’ 7-6 loss to the rival Cowboys.

"Scared," Landry plainly described Williams' play.

"Yeah, I know he was. Y'all can quote it, too. Y'all can tell him right now, tell him I'm saying it. I can say it right now: Yeah, he was scared, I think. I told him he was scared."

When Terl asked Landry what Williams said in response to his on-the-field bantering, "Nothing," said Landry.

Landry went on to discuss specifics as to why he felt Williams was playing scared.

"Certain pass concepts they had, [...] certain routes he ran, you could tell he didn't want any part of it."

Upon first blush, this seems like a pretty damning criticism being leveled at Williams.

You can be a lot of things in the testosterone-fueled game of football, but you can't be a heartless wimp.

Furthermore, when you have a fellow peer calling you into question, it stings just a bit more.

However, with a little perspective and source consideration, one realizes it's probably much to do about nothing.

First off, I'm certainly no Roy Williams apologist, but I'm a wee bit sympathetic toward a receiver on the mend from three cracked ribs who demonstrates a slight reluctance in throwing his hands over his head with 215 lbs. of muscled aggression coming his way.

Just a little bit.

Those who have experienced broken ribs will tell you that it's a debilitating injury. It hurts to breathe, twist, or stretch, let alone jog or full-out sprint.

Secondly, a defensive back calling out a wide receiver is nothing new. This has been going on since the forward pass was legalized in the league in 1933.

As to Williams' supposed silent reaction after Landry's taunts—that's just junior high level psychoanalysis.

Since Landry took some liberty in doing so, allow me to do some of my own.

Considering some of the factors noted above, not to mention the fact the Redskins had just lost a tough game, it's understandable how a known hothead such as Landry would lash out, feeling like they lost but didn't really get beat by Dallas.

It sounds to me like Landry just found some personal solace in muzzling one of the Cowboys' offensive weapons.

Conversely, it could all be true. Maybe Williams is a wuss. Maybe he did get punked on the field.

I’ll give him the benefit of the doubt though. At least until further proof is provided.

This really seems to be much ado about nothing.

More than likely it's just a talented yet emotionally wounded safety venting after a tough divisional loss.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Philadelphia Eagles Waive CB Jack Ikegwuonu; Sign CB Geoffrey Pope

Bob Cunningham — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:51:00 -0500

Jack Ikegwuonu, once thought to be a steal in the fourth round, has officially worn out his chances in Philadelphia as the team waived the underachieving cornerback today.

In his place, the Eagles signed Geoffrey Pope (6'0 186), a cornerback off the Cincinnati Bengals' practice squad. Pope will immediately take Ikegwuonu's place on the 53-man active roster.

How much time Pope will see has yet to be determined, but it will most likely happen on special teams, if he's even active on game days. P.J. Hill, another mid-season pickup for the Eagles this year, has spent most of his time as a healthy scratch so expect Pope to do the same.

However, if the Eagles feel like they need someone else to strictly play special teams, he could stay active over a guy like Quintin Demps.

Realistically, Ikegwuonu wasn't going to get much playing time anyway. Asante Samuel, Sheldon Brown, Macho Harris, Ramzee Robinson, and Dimitri Patterson (not necessarily in that order) were all ahead of Ikegwuonu. However, it spoke volumes that a guy like Robinson, who was only with the team for a week, was seeing time over Icky.

I had said that during training camp he appeared to lack the closing speed that a corner needs, most likely due to his knee injury before the draft two years ago. It's a shame because watching him you could tell he knows how to play the game, but in this league your body has to hold up or you're going to get replaced.

That's why Icky is going through now, and barring a magical comeback as a safety, his days in the NFL are most likely numbered.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Chris Cooley Headed For IR: Fred Davis Fantasy Stock On The Rise

Wayne Makela — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:38:35 -0500

Washington Redskins injured tight end Chris Cooley admitted on a radio show recently that he's likely done for the season .

Nothing is official and no reports have been made regarding his injury , but Cooley remains in a walking boot and is still more than a week away from a possible return.

Cooley apparently made comments suggesting that his season could be over, and with the Redskins playing for little else other than pride at just 3-7, it wouldn't make much sense to rush him back this season.

Fantasy Perspective: This is bad news for Chris Cooley owners that were holding out hope and didn't swing a trade for a full-time replacement. The possibility of Cooley going on IR becomes more likely with every day that he doesn't practice, and with the solid play of Fred Davis, the Redskins are likely to be tempted to sit Cooley and see what their other young tight end has to offer.

Davis hasn't dazzled, but did catch seven passes and a touchdown in relief of Cooley when the Redskins star tight end initially went down with his injury.

If Davis isn't a top selection in fantasy owner's minds, then exploring other options with more potential might be more appealing.

The Houston Texans began the transition from Owen Daniels (also on IR) in Week 11, as James Casey caught two passes for 33 yards, his second catch being a 32-yarder on Monday night.

Casey provides great hands, athleticism, and playmaking ability to the position, and could be a nice pick-up if you are in desperation mode in an attempt to fill the tight end slot in your lineup.

Stay tuned this week for NFL Soup 's Waiver Wire Watch, and go to www.nflsoup.com for all NFL breaking news and fantasy advice.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Can the New York Giants Beat the Denver Broncos?

Mike Kent — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:21:15 -0500

After the Giants beat the Falcons in week 11, they look to be back in winning form. But can they continue the success?

The win on Sunday did not impressme for three reasons.

1. The Giants battery seamed to be all but empty in the fourth quarter on Sunday. They have given up 38 points in the second half of there past two games against Atlanta and San Diego.

The Giants defense needs to step up if they want to help their team make the playoffs.

2. They beat a team that lost three of it's last four games coming into Sunday—and the one team they beat was the Redskins.

3. They beat a Falcons team in OT without running backs Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood. Atlanta started Jason Snelling, who until Sunday had zero toudhdowns in the past two seasons.

I still think they are going to win on Thursday against the Broncos, here are three reasons why:

1. The good news for the Giants has been the play of Eli Manning. Not much was said about his game against San Diego, when he threw for over 200 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions.

This week he was even better, amassing 384 yards through the air and three touchdowns. He is now third in the NFC in TD passes with 18 and is the best player on the Giants this year.

2. The Denver Broncos are looking bad again, they started the season 6-0 and since then have lost four straight.

They have been looking bad, with their worst loss coming to the Redskins, 27-17.

3. Kyle Orton, who suffered a left ankle injury two week's ago was going to sit against the Chargers if favor of the healthier Chris Simms. But after three poor offensive possessions, the Broncos put in Orton to try and salvage a win.

Orton threw for one interception and only completed 15 out of his 29 passes. What I am saying is that even if he is healthy, (which he is likely not) he is just not that good.

One player who has not been having his best season is RB Brandon Jacobs, who only has 656 rushing yards and three TDs.

On Sunday he went down in the third quarter and didn't come back into the game. It looks as if he will be alright—but you never know.

Still, I think the Giants will be OK if they are forced to start Ahmad Bradshaw. He's demonstrated big play capability in the past and this season has rushed for over 549 yards and four TDs

I think the Giants will win by at least 10 points, but what do you think? Let me know your thoughts!

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Eagles Shawn Andrews Officially on the Trading Block

Bob Cunningham — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:40:00 -0500

Well, maybe the chopping block.

With Winston Justice signing a four-year extension to keep him in Philadelphia through the 2013 season, the other disappointing Andrews brother (Shawn) finds himself at a real crossroads for the 2010 season.

It's now become unlikely that he will ever play as an Eagle again, and he could just be playing a waiting game until he finds out which one of the other 31 NFL teams wants to be severely disappointed by an immense amount of talent just floating around their practice facility.

The problem the Eagles will run into is finding a team who wants to trade for a guy who has played a total of two games over the past two seasons. Averaging one game per season is not going to have potential suitors lining up at your door.

So, what the Eagles may wind up doing is simply keeping him on the roster and holding out hope. There are rumors that he's embellishing the injury to his back, so maybe having Justice entrenched as the starter will force him to wake up and start playing.

And if he doesn't, the guy is only making $1 million next season, which is cap-friendly enough to keep him as a backup plan.

So far, both Andrews brothers have been extremely disappointing, but at least it appears as though Stacy will be ready to go next year after his knee injury has hobbled him a bit longer than anyone expected.

There you go NFL, there is now a guy on the trading block with as many Pro Bowl appearances in his career as games played over the past two seasons.

Anyone willing to part with a draft pick? No? I didn't think so.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Eagles-Bears: Five Positive Factors From Philadelphia's 24-20 Win Over Chicago

Dan Parzych — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 21:31:43 -0500

The Philadelphia Eagles avoided a three-game losing streak by defeating the Chicago Bears 24-20 in a game where both teams were desperate for a win.

The win helped the Eagles improve to 6-4 on the season and kept the race tight in the NFC East since both the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys came through with Week 11 wins, as well. Here are a few quick notes regarding the Eagles big win.

The Eagles Come Through In a “Must-Win”

Last week, Donovan McNabb called Sunday night's game against the Bears a "must-win">Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb called Sunday night’s game against the Bears a “must-win.” With the way the NFC East has played out the last few weeks, it’s understandable why.

Prior to Sunday night’s game, the Eagles trailed the Dallas Cowboys by one game in the NFC East standings and held the tiebreaker over the New York Giants, thanks to their head-to-head matchup. They were in sole possession of the first wild-card spot and wanted to continue to stay in shape for the playoff hunt.

With four losses at this point in the season, the Eagles need every win they can get from here on out. Considering the Cowboys and Giants both came through with wins on Sunday, the Eagles knew they would need to come through with a win over the Bears, especially with a difficult remaining schedule.

Donovan McNabb and the Eagles Came From Behind in the Fourth Quarter

Throughout his career, McNabb has been criticized for not being able to lead his team on a game-winning drive. However, his performance in the fourth quarter against the Bears was something we're not used to seeing from him—and hopefully we can see it more often.

With 11:01 left in the game and the Bears up 20-17, McNabb helped the Eagles drive 62 yards to take a 24-20 lead with just over five minutes left to play. While running back LeSean McCoy topped off the drive with a 10-yard touchdown run, McNabb went 5-of-6 for 40 yards and was a major factor on two key third-down plays.

Prior to Sunday’s game against the Bears, the Eagles were 1-8-1 in their last 10 games decided by single digits. It must feel nice for the city of Philadelphia to come up on the winning end in a game decided by single digits this time around.

Eagles End Winless Streak on NBC Sunday Night Football

Here’s a fun fact: Sunday’s win over the Bears was the first time the Eagles had ever won on Sunday Night Football since it switched over to NBC in 2006.

In 2006, NBC picked up the rights for Sunday Night Football, which was previously shown on ESPN before they started broadcasting Monday Night Football. Ever since the switch, the Eagles have struggled each time they were scheduled to play on NBC.

Three-and-a-half years and eight games later, the Eagles have finally ended their winless streak after defeating the Bears. Instead of 0-8, they now have an all-time record of 1-7 on NBC’s Sunday Night Football.

Quarterback Michael Vick Breaks Loose…Finally

OK, it may have only been ONE run, but the 34-yard Wildcat run by Eagles' quarterback Michael Vick on the first drive against the Bears was a huge confidence booster for a player struggling to get anything good going this season. The smile on his face showed what a relief it was to finally make that big play he was previously known for doing on a weekly basis.

Vick’s 34-yard run was more than his combined total yards for the entire season. While he has struggled to live up to the expectations set in the offseason, his run helped the Eagles jump out to an early 3-0 lead.

Now that he finally had that explosive run everybody has been waiting to see from him all season, hopefully Vick can continue to provide the Eagles with big plays for the remainder of the schedule.

Wide Receiver DeSean Jackson and Running Back LeSean McCoy Both Make Up For Fumbles

Of the three turnovers by the Eagles in their game against the Bears, two of them were from DeSean Jackson and LeSean McCoy.

While the turnovers may have been costly at the time, both Jackson and McCoy made up for their mistakes by coming up with touchdowns. Jackson hauled in a 48-yard reception from McNabb in the third quarter, and McCoy found the end zone for the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Along with their touchdowns, Jackson hauled in eight receptions for 107 yards, while McCoy ran for 99 yards on 20 carries. If the Eagles want to be playoff contenders, they will need major contributions from both players for the rest of the regular season.

Dan Parzych Is the Eagles Fan Voice for NFLTouchdown.com

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com

Despite Gutsy Effort, Redskins Unable To Kick Their Way Past Dallas

Jack Anderson — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:35:09 -0500

Yesterday's Redskins-Cowboys game was the first since Week One that I anticipated. And for three-and-a-half periods, it appeared my excitement may have been validated.

Then Shaun Suisham happened. Suisham came into the game perfect on all 12 of his field goal attempts. He left the game having missed two and a big reason why the 'Skins found themselves on the losing end of a 7-6 score to the Cowboys.

Now, don't get me wrong, the offense wasn't exactly piling on the points, but they controlled the ball in the second half with the scrubs in the game.

Think about it: In a defensive battle, the Redskin offense had four scoring opportunities to the Cowboys' two. The 'Skins were solid punting the ball and moved it enough to keep field position balanced.

They played a sound game with the likes of Rock Cartwright handling the ball. Jason Campbell was protected by Edwin Williams, Levi Jones, and Stephon Heyer—none of them exactly starter material.

With those guys, the Redskins gave up just one sack. Sure, they couldn't protect well enough for Campbell to open it up downfield, but they gave him time to make big third-down throws as Campbell went 13-13 on his third-down attempts.

Overall, Washington went 7-15 on third-down conversions, but it was a big 3rd-and-2 with around five minutes left in the game that they wished they could have back.

Campbell lined up in the shotgun with Cartwright next to him on the Cowboy 32. He handed it to him on a draw, which was stuffed, forcing Suisham to come out for a 50-yard FG. Suisham missed, and the Cowboys scored on their ensuing possession to take the lead.

The play call was questionable, but a good kicker would have made that kick. It was indoors, and it wasn't even with the game on the line. And Suisham missed it.

Zorn was criticized by fans for not taking a shot to the end zone with 15 seconds left in the first half. He went for the 39-yarder instead of taking a chance. I liked that call, and so did Redskins Insider front man, Jason Reid, who said:

Quarterback Jason Campbell probably had one of the best performances of his career while dealing with constant pressure. He made many impressive throws on the move, but the pressure was there. Zorn simply did not want to risk Campbell being sacked, which could have knocked the Redskins out of Suisham's range. And Suisham had made his first 13 attempts.

So considering the shaky pass protection and Suisham's accuracy until Sunday (he also missed a 50-yard attempt), I didn't have a problem with Zorn's decision.

Not a banner day for the offense, but, considering the personnel on the field, I'd call it a great effort spoiled by a pair of botched kicks.

Read more NFC East news on BleacherReport.com