• Give LT Levi Brown credit. He did a very solid job against RDE Julius Peppers.
• Fifth-year DT Gabe Watson was very active in this game. The light could be coming on for the former fourth-round pick out of the 2006 NFL Draft.
• Underrated DT Calais Campbell continues to make his presence known. For a guy at 6-8, he moves around quite well. Chicago's offensive line had trouble with him for most of the time he was in the game.
• Jay Cutler struggled in this game. But for whatever reason, he couldn't get untracked even with mostly good pass protection. He just doesn't look comfortable. Offensive coordinator Mike Martz must design plays for Cutler to get the ball out of his hands quickly in order to get his confidence back.
• Veteran RB Chester Taylor displayed outstanding moves and pretty good speed during his 34-yard run in the first half.
• Second-year WR Johnny Knox is clearly Cutler's top passing option. He has improved his route running and has outstanding short area quickness.
• The Bears were without several key players on defense, so that could be attributed to their struggles on that side of the ball.
Here are more random thoughts and observations from the remaining eight games:
• Veteran QB Jake Delhomme was very accurate again for the Cleveland Browns against the cheap Detroit Lions jersey. He's getting clearly defined reads in the play calling, and he's getting rid of the ball quickly. He's 38-48-345-2TDs so far in his three preseason appearances. But the big number, zero INTs.
• One of the main reasons why the Browns wanted FB Peyton Hillis included in the Brady Quinn jersey trade was because they wanted to add some athleticism to that position. That athleticism was on display against the Lions.
• Rookie RB Jahvid Best continues to shine. He's unbelievable in space.
• While their offense continues to be impressive, the defense is looking like it's going to struggle again. The Lions simply lack enough quality talent on the other side of the ball.
• Carson Palmer looked very comfortable behind center for the Cincinnati Bengals during his playing time against the Buffalo Bills. He did a good job of scanning the field. He is loaded with passing options for the first time in many years
• While Baltimore Ravens QB Joe Flacco had a very solid game against the New York Giants, the Giants were without two of their top-three cornerbacks. Flacco's offensive line did a great job of giving him enough time to throw the ball most of the time.
• While some want to put him out to pasture, veteran TE Todd Heap looked very good. I can't recall him moving this well in recent years.
• The injury-ravaged Ravens secondary had a nice performance against QB Eli Manning.
• Rookie WR Victor Cruz did it again for the Giants. He continues to make big plays. Not only is he pushing for a spot on the 53-man roster, but he could wind up being their fourth receiver.
• Veteran DT Rocky Bernard not only had two sacks against the cheap Ravens jersey , but he was very active and disruptive. That's what they were looking from him last season.
• What in the world happened to the Dallas Cowboys tonight in their matchup against the Houston Texans? Sure, they looked flat, but they acted like they didn't want to be there.
• QB Tony Romo was better in this game than he had been in the previous two game
The Arizona Cardinals are still trying to determine who will start opening day against the St. Louis Rams. With that said, here are some observations on both signal callers as well as the quarterback on the other side of the field, Jay Cutler and his Chicago Bears:
• Derek Anderson got the start for the Cardinals and was very efficient. The tall passer was fairly accurate and was willing to stand in the pocket to throw the ball. It's a virtual certainty that he'll be their starting quarterback when the team takes on the St. Louis Rams in the season opener.
• While Matt Leinart was very accurate, he continues to check down the ball too much instead of maintaining his down-field focus. That's why he throws for a low average per pass attempt. They simply can't run the passing game they would like with Leinart behind center.
• The way the coaches are using second-year RB Chris "Beanie" Wells continues to be a mystery. He didn't get into the game until the second quarter. Of course, the fumble in the red zone didn't help his cause. Tim Hightower is the starter for one big reason. He doesn't make a lot of mistakes. But that doesn't mean Wells won't be a big factor during the regular season. Wells is eminently more talented than Hightower, but he must correct his mistakes.
• We've been talking about undrafted free-agent rookie WR Stephen Williams quite a bit in this space over the past few weeks, but he continues to get it done in a big way. He made a nice adjustment on his 27-yard TD catch from Anderson in the second quarter. It's mind-boggling why Williams wasn't drafted. His wholesale NFL hats Combine workout was decent, and he runs well for his size.
2010年8月29日星期日
2010年8月18日星期三
Chargers were one of the most explosive offensive teams in the NFL last season
The Chargers have threatened to place McNeill on the roster exempt list if he doesn't sign his contract tender by Friday. By being placed on the roster exempt list, he would face a three-game suspension once he's signed.
A person familiar with the situation confirmed the meeting to The Associated Press, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the talks.
Smith, McNeill and agent Alvin Keels didn't immediately return calls and e-mails seeking comment.
McNeill, who protects quarterback Philip Rivers' blind side, and Pro Bowl wide receiver Vincent Jackson, unhappy at not getting long-term deals, are believed to be willing to sit out the season's first 10 games, returning for the final six games in order to accrue a season.
Keels confirmed last week that the Chargers have threatened to place McNeill on the roster exempt list. Jackson's agent, Neil Schwartz, didn't return a call or e-mail, but it would seem to follow suit that the Chargers would also threaten his client with the same treatment.
Jackson already has been suspended by the NFL for the first three games for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Being placed on the roster exempt list would force them to move up their return, if they intend to play at all this year.
Despite a pathetic running game, which ranked next to last in the league, the Chargers were one of the most explosive offensive teams in the NFL last season. With a 28.4 points per game scoring average, the Chargers boasted the fourth-best scoring offense in the league.
Pro Bowl quarterback Philip Rivers led the way in 2009, and his right arm will continue to be the focal point of the offense now that LaDainian Tomlinson is a New York Jet. Rivers threw for 4,254 yards and 28 scores with just nine interceptions, while finishing third in the NFL with a 104.4 quarterback rating.
Rivers benefits from having a pair of elite targets in the receiving corps. Antonio Gates is one of the premier pass catching tight ends in the NFL and Vincent Jackson is quickly emerging as a top notch wideout. This dynamic duo combined for 147 catches, 2,324 yards and 17 touchdowns last season.
The Chargers were the second-worst rushing team in the NFL in 2009, only gaining 88.9 yards per game. While it was tough to part ways with one of the greatest backs in NFL history, San Diego's running game can't get any worse. If anything, it should get better with the fresh legs of first round draft pick Ryan Matthews and a healthier offensive line.
The San Diego defense was solid in 2009, only allowing 20.0 points per game (11th in the NFL), but the Chargers aren't satisfied. Their pass defense wasn't consistent. In fact, they ranked No. 20 in the NFL against the pass, giving up 209.2 yards per game. The Chargers can easily decrease that number if outside linebacker Shawne Merriman returns to form.
Merriman didn't look like himself in his first season back from a serious knee injury. He only tallied four sacks, after averaging 13.2 per year through his first three seasons.
The other Shaun, Shaun Phillips, continued his consistently good play with a seven-sack campaign. He has now recorded at least seven sacks each of the last five years. The Bolts are also looking for more production from Larry English in his second season.
Kevin Burnett and Stephen Cooper will join the aforementioned platoon to form a solid linebacker unit.
Big Luis Castillo leads the charge up front, with fellow vets Jacques Cesaire, Ryon Bingham, Travis Johnson, and Antonio Garay chipping in as well.
San Diego struggled to defend the pass last season, allowing 209.2 yards per game through the air (20th in the NFL). More production from Merriman or English will go a long way toward improving this area.
The Chargers shipped Antonio Cromartie to the Jets, but they like what they have in 2008 first round pick Antoine Cason. He joins shutdown corner Quentin Jammer to form a formidable cornerback duo.
Dez Bryant hasn't run, cut or juked for the Cowboys since injuring his ankle in the first week of training camp in San Antonio. He has, however, had his head buried in the playbook apparently.
Bryant said he passed offensive coordinator Jason Garrett's test after practice on Wednesday afternoon, proving he knew his plays, routes and splits.
"He just wanted to make sure that I was on top of my game and if I've been in my playbook," Bryant said. "He basically wanted to know if I had everything down."
Garrett worked with Bryant for nearly half an hour after the afternoon practice. Bryant still isn't allowed to run or cut on his ankle, so instead of showing Garrett the routes, he called them out. Apparently he did well enough to show Garrett he knew his stuff.
"He called the play out, he wanted me to go to my split, he wanted me to tell him what route I had and I was just calling it out for him and everything went well," Bryant said. "He just wanted to make sure that when it's time for me to go in, I'll be ready to go."
A person familiar with the situation confirmed the meeting to The Associated Press, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the talks.
Smith, McNeill and agent Alvin Keels didn't immediately return calls and e-mails seeking comment.
McNeill, who protects quarterback Philip Rivers' blind side, and Pro Bowl wide receiver Vincent Jackson, unhappy at not getting long-term deals, are believed to be willing to sit out the season's first 10 games, returning for the final six games in order to accrue a season.
Keels confirmed last week that the Chargers have threatened to place McNeill on the roster exempt list. Jackson's agent, Neil Schwartz, didn't return a call or e-mail, but it would seem to follow suit that the Chargers would also threaten his client with the same treatment.
Jackson already has been suspended by the NFL for the first three games for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Being placed on the roster exempt list would force them to move up their return, if they intend to play at all this year.
Despite a pathetic running game, which ranked next to last in the league, the Chargers were one of the most explosive offensive teams in the NFL last season. With a 28.4 points per game scoring average, the Chargers boasted the fourth-best scoring offense in the league.
Pro Bowl quarterback Philip Rivers led the way in 2009, and his right arm will continue to be the focal point of the offense now that LaDainian Tomlinson is a New York Jet. Rivers threw for 4,254 yards and 28 scores with just nine interceptions, while finishing third in the NFL with a 104.4 quarterback rating.
Rivers benefits from having a pair of elite targets in the receiving corps. Antonio Gates is one of the premier pass catching tight ends in the NFL and Vincent Jackson is quickly emerging as a top notch wideout. This dynamic duo combined for 147 catches, 2,324 yards and 17 touchdowns last season.
The Chargers were the second-worst rushing team in the NFL in 2009, only gaining 88.9 yards per game. While it was tough to part ways with one of the greatest backs in NFL history, San Diego's running game can't get any worse. If anything, it should get better with the fresh legs of first round draft pick Ryan Matthews and a healthier offensive line.
The San Diego defense was solid in 2009, only allowing 20.0 points per game (11th in the NFL), but the Chargers aren't satisfied. Their pass defense wasn't consistent. In fact, they ranked No. 20 in the NFL against the pass, giving up 209.2 yards per game. The Chargers can easily decrease that number if outside linebacker Shawne Merriman returns to form.
Merriman didn't look like himself in his first season back from a serious knee injury. He only tallied four sacks, after averaging 13.2 per year through his first three seasons.
The other Shaun, Shaun Phillips, continued his consistently good play with a seven-sack campaign. He has now recorded at least seven sacks each of the last five years. The Bolts are also looking for more production from Larry English in his second season.
Kevin Burnett and Stephen Cooper will join the aforementioned platoon to form a solid linebacker unit.
Big Luis Castillo leads the charge up front, with fellow vets Jacques Cesaire, Ryon Bingham, Travis Johnson, and Antonio Garay chipping in as well.
San Diego struggled to defend the pass last season, allowing 209.2 yards per game through the air (20th in the NFL). More production from Merriman or English will go a long way toward improving this area.
The Chargers shipped Antonio Cromartie to the Jets, but they like what they have in 2008 first round pick Antoine Cason. He joins shutdown corner Quentin Jammer to form a formidable cornerback duo.
Dez Bryant hasn't run, cut or juked for the Cowboys since injuring his ankle in the first week of training camp in San Antonio. He has, however, had his head buried in the playbook apparently.
Bryant said he passed offensive coordinator Jason Garrett's test after practice on Wednesday afternoon, proving he knew his plays, routes and splits.
"He just wanted to make sure that I was on top of my game and if I've been in my playbook," Bryant said. "He basically wanted to know if I had everything down."
Garrett worked with Bryant for nearly half an hour after the afternoon practice. Bryant still isn't allowed to run or cut on his ankle, so instead of showing Garrett the routes, he called them out. Apparently he did well enough to show Garrett he knew his stuff.
"He called the play out, he wanted me to go to my split, he wanted me to tell him what route I had and I was just calling it out for him and everything went well," Bryant said. "He just wanted to make sure that when it's time for me to go in, I'll be ready to go."
2010年8月9日星期一
Colts have horsepower for Super Bowl title this season
One week into training camp, the Indianapolis Colts are the most locked-and-loaded team in the NFL.
It's true, we don't know if Tony Ugoh will hold on to that left guard spot. But if the biggest question mark in your lineup is left guard, that's called sitting pretty.
Now, early August is a long way from the regular season and even Donald Brown longer from the November-December grind. Almost inevitable injuries can make a team that looks good on paper want to wad up that paper and deposit it in the nearest trash can.
But a week into training camp, the Colts stand healthy and formidable.
Think about it. Bob Sanders is back, looking strong. Anthony Gonzalez is back, looking fast. Adam Vinatieri is back, kicking away. Peyton Manning is hitting Reggie Wayne in stride for scrimmage touchdowns in front of 5,000 fans at Anderson University. Dwight Freeney hasn't hobbled at all.
There simply aren't a lot of questions lingering with this team.
One decent-sized one that can't be answered until the regular season begins is how Clyde Christensen will fare as offensive coordinator, especially with former coordinator Tom Moore looking over his shoulder. At least one national columnist has written that Christensen will simply do whatever Manning wants to do. I'm not sure that's the case, but if it is, I'm not sure that's a bad idea anyway. Does anyone understand the game better, or study the game more, than Manning? Doubtful.
As for the overstocked receiving corps, at some point one of the group that includes Wayne, Gonzalez, Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie will probably suffer an injury. That's the cost of high-impact NFL games. If/when that happens, there won't be a drop-off in production. If they stay healthy, the combinations and options are nearly endless. That has to make Christensen and Manning smile.
Yes, both guard spots on the offensive line have some shaking out to do. It looks Dwight Freeney like Ugoh will likely claim the left side with Mike Pollak on the right.
The fact Ugoh was a bust at left tackle, losing his job to Charlie Johnson, is old news. The fact he's taking pride in working at guard is a great sign. Ugoh praised former guard Ryan Lilja (now with the Chiefs) when he talked with reporters after practice this week.
"I don't think I have to bring something different to the table, but just not have a drop-off from where it was before," Ugoh said. "As a team we are all working really hard in the run-blocking area just to get better. I'm really just working together with the guys to try and get the run game going."
The running game is a concern, too. The Colts haven't had an elite ground attack since Edgerrin James left. Then again, with the passing game of the Colts, where short passes to Dallas Clark provide run-like yardage, they don't need a big-time back churning out yards.
There should be some competitive strength at the running back spot this year, with Joseph Addai in the last year of his contract and Donald Brown healthy and possessing a better understanding of the offence in his second season.
I'm not sure whether Deshea Townsend is the answer to some depth issues in the secondary. He's 34 and the Steelers were willing to let him go. On the other hand, he has to be better than Tim Jennings.
Like the receiving corps, there's an odd man out when it comes to Sanders and his erstwhile replacement Melvin Bullitt. But the Colts showed a wrinkle in practice this week where Sanders, Bullitt and the other starting safety, Antoine Bethea, were on the field in the same unit, with Bullitt ready to blitz. I like that idea.
This training camp, the second for coach Jim Caldwell, is more of a refining camp than a team-moulding one.
The Colts know what they do well, and it's the same thing they've been doing for most of the Manning era. They are stocked with superstar and near-superstar players.
It's true, we don't know if Tony Ugoh will hold on to that left guard spot. But if the biggest question mark in your lineup is left guard, that's called sitting pretty.
Now, early August is a long way from the regular season and even Donald Brown longer from the November-December grind. Almost inevitable injuries can make a team that looks good on paper want to wad up that paper and deposit it in the nearest trash can.
But a week into training camp, the Colts stand healthy and formidable.
Think about it. Bob Sanders is back, looking strong. Anthony Gonzalez is back, looking fast. Adam Vinatieri is back, kicking away. Peyton Manning is hitting Reggie Wayne in stride for scrimmage touchdowns in front of 5,000 fans at Anderson University. Dwight Freeney hasn't hobbled at all.
There simply aren't a lot of questions lingering with this team.
One decent-sized one that can't be answered until the regular season begins is how Clyde Christensen will fare as offensive coordinator, especially with former coordinator Tom Moore looking over his shoulder. At least one national columnist has written that Christensen will simply do whatever Manning wants to do. I'm not sure that's the case, but if it is, I'm not sure that's a bad idea anyway. Does anyone understand the game better, or study the game more, than Manning? Doubtful.
As for the overstocked receiving corps, at some point one of the group that includes Wayne, Gonzalez, Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie will probably suffer an injury. That's the cost of high-impact NFL games. If/when that happens, there won't be a drop-off in production. If they stay healthy, the combinations and options are nearly endless. That has to make Christensen and Manning smile.
Yes, both guard spots on the offensive line have some shaking out to do. It looks Dwight Freeney like Ugoh will likely claim the left side with Mike Pollak on the right.
The fact Ugoh was a bust at left tackle, losing his job to Charlie Johnson, is old news. The fact he's taking pride in working at guard is a great sign. Ugoh praised former guard Ryan Lilja (now with the Chiefs) when he talked with reporters after practice this week.
"I don't think I have to bring something different to the table, but just not have a drop-off from where it was before," Ugoh said. "As a team we are all working really hard in the run-blocking area just to get better. I'm really just working together with the guys to try and get the run game going."
The running game is a concern, too. The Colts haven't had an elite ground attack since Edgerrin James left. Then again, with the passing game of the Colts, where short passes to Dallas Clark provide run-like yardage, they don't need a big-time back churning out yards.
There should be some competitive strength at the running back spot this year, with Joseph Addai in the last year of his contract and Donald Brown healthy and possessing a better understanding of the offence in his second season.
I'm not sure whether Deshea Townsend is the answer to some depth issues in the secondary. He's 34 and the Steelers were willing to let him go. On the other hand, he has to be better than Tim Jennings.
Like the receiving corps, there's an odd man out when it comes to Sanders and his erstwhile replacement Melvin Bullitt. But the Colts showed a wrinkle in practice this week where Sanders, Bullitt and the other starting safety, Antoine Bethea, were on the field in the same unit, with Bullitt ready to blitz. I like that idea.
This training camp, the second for coach Jim Caldwell, is more of a refining camp than a team-moulding one.
The Colts know what they do well, and it's the same thing they've been doing for most of the Manning era. They are stocked with superstar and near-superstar players.
2010年8月5日星期四
Michael Vick was out celebrating his 25th birthday
Of course, Vick will be an option if Kolb falters. But he also provides value to the Eagles on two other fronts. They likely will expand the Wildcat-style package they used with him last year. And they probably will use him to spell Kolb when Kolb needs time to absorb what's happening.
The Eagles clearly are planning for Vick to take on a larger role this year — their coaches are acknowledging as much — in part because Vick is ready to take on a larger role. It took him about a half a season to get in playing shape a year ago, and he's in better football shape now than he was at any point last season, his first back from the big house.
Eagles head coach Andy Reid told me in the offseason that Vick was moving around better and throwing better than he did last season. "I just think he's back," Reid said. "He'll probably get a few more snaps."
Vick helped his cause by showing up consistently for the offseason program for the first time in his career. And despite his off the field problems, he has endeared himself to his coach. "I really enjoyed having him here," Reid said. "He has a pleasant personality and he's sharp. His desire to get back is phenomenal. I love this kid."
Eagles offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg described Michael Vick as "hungry to learn and be the best he can be." This is a departure from the Michael Vick who was content to rely on his athleticism earlier in his career.
Vick can have a significant impact on the Eagles' season regardless of how Kolb performs. But the Eagles need for Kolb to be the man. Team brass is confident Kolb will do that. What is the source of their confidence?
Well, like Aaron Rodgers, Philip Rivers, Tony Romo and others, Kolb was allowed to sit and learn in a system before being asked to perform. Many quarterbacks don't have that luxury, and some wash out because of it.
Kolb has been developed slowly and methodically — bottle-fed, you might say. In his first two years in the league, he led all quarterbacks in preseason attempts. His two starts last year inspired confidence — he became the first player in history to pass for 300-plus yards in each of his first two starts, and he also was named NFC offensive player of the week for his performance against the Chiefs.
The fear with Kolb is he's going to be too loose with the football. He has thrown seven interceptions in his 130 pro attempts, but only three in his last 96. "He has made some bad decisions in games, and it's quite clear he's learned from them," Mornhinweg said. "We expect him to go up and down a little bit."
Kolb is a different-style quarterback from McNabb, and that will be reflected in the Eagles' play calls and game plans.
Kolb is a more accurate passer than McNabb, and he might have a quicker delivery. His arm isn't as strong. His movement skills aren't as dynamic. And he isn't as mature a decision maker. With Kolb under center, the Eagles may call for shorter, quicker developing routes and more timing passes.
Michael Vick was out celebrating his 25th birthday when a shooting took place outside a Virginia restaurant. Turns out the man shot was reportedly a co-defendant in the 2007 dog fighting case against Vick.
There was talk the quarterback could again be disciplined by the league. Vick played six season with the Falcons before serving jail time for his participation with a dog fighting ring.
Vick had been waiting to see what if anything the league would do about the shooting incident, but according to Thirdage.com, while at camp Wednesday, the NFL Commissioner informed Vick that he is in the clear.
The Eagles clearly are planning for Vick to take on a larger role this year — their coaches are acknowledging as much — in part because Vick is ready to take on a larger role. It took him about a half a season to get in playing shape a year ago, and he's in better football shape now than he was at any point last season, his first back from the big house.
Eagles head coach Andy Reid told me in the offseason that Vick was moving around better and throwing better than he did last season. "I just think he's back," Reid said. "He'll probably get a few more snaps."
Vick helped his cause by showing up consistently for the offseason program for the first time in his career. And despite his off the field problems, he has endeared himself to his coach. "I really enjoyed having him here," Reid said. "He has a pleasant personality and he's sharp. His desire to get back is phenomenal. I love this kid."
Eagles offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg described Michael Vick as "hungry to learn and be the best he can be." This is a departure from the Michael Vick who was content to rely on his athleticism earlier in his career.
Vick can have a significant impact on the Eagles' season regardless of how Kolb performs. But the Eagles need for Kolb to be the man. Team brass is confident Kolb will do that. What is the source of their confidence?
Well, like Aaron Rodgers, Philip Rivers, Tony Romo and others, Kolb was allowed to sit and learn in a system before being asked to perform. Many quarterbacks don't have that luxury, and some wash out because of it.
Kolb has been developed slowly and methodically — bottle-fed, you might say. In his first two years in the league, he led all quarterbacks in preseason attempts. His two starts last year inspired confidence — he became the first player in history to pass for 300-plus yards in each of his first two starts, and he also was named NFC offensive player of the week for his performance against the Chiefs.
The fear with Kolb is he's going to be too loose with the football. He has thrown seven interceptions in his 130 pro attempts, but only three in his last 96. "He has made some bad decisions in games, and it's quite clear he's learned from them," Mornhinweg said. "We expect him to go up and down a little bit."
Kolb is a different-style quarterback from McNabb, and that will be reflected in the Eagles' play calls and game plans.
Kolb is a more accurate passer than McNabb, and he might have a quicker delivery. His arm isn't as strong. His movement skills aren't as dynamic. And he isn't as mature a decision maker. With Kolb under center, the Eagles may call for shorter, quicker developing routes and more timing passes.
Michael Vick was out celebrating his 25th birthday when a shooting took place outside a Virginia restaurant. Turns out the man shot was reportedly a co-defendant in the 2007 dog fighting case against Vick.
There was talk the quarterback could again be disciplined by the league. Vick played six season with the Falcons before serving jail time for his participation with a dog fighting ring.
Vick had been waiting to see what if anything the league would do about the shooting incident, but according to Thirdage.com, while at camp Wednesday, the NFL Commissioner informed Vick that he is in the clear.
2010年8月4日星期三
The Packers also added two defensive ends in April’s draft
The same can't really be said for the defensive lineman's future with the Green Bay Packers.
Jolly, who was indefinitely suspended last month by the NFL for violating the league's substance abuse policy, reached an agreement with prosecutors in his native Houston that could lead to the long-standing drug possession case against him being dismissed.
Jolly received a one-year pretrial diversion, a form of probation that will have the charge against him dismissed in a year if he doesn't break the law and completes other requirements, including 160 hours of community service. Part of the community service will be 10 speaking engagements where he will talk to children and others about the dangers of drug use.
The agreement was reached as Jolly's trial was set to begin this week. He had been facing up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
But even if Jolly avoids jail time, it's unclear whether he'll play again for the Packers after his suspension, which will last at least through this season.
"We're not going to speculate about that right now," general manager Ted Thompson said. "Johnny's got a lot of work to do and we've got a lot of work to do here."
Jolly was charged with possession of a controlled substance — having at least 200 grams of codeine — after being arrested in July 2008 in the parking lot of a Houston club known for drug and gun use. In Jolly's car, police found cups that had a codeine mixture.
"I was disappointed for him," Thompson said. "I like Johnny, and I hope he comes through this OK."
Along with the community service, Jolly will undergo random drug and alcohol testing. He can't drink alcohol and is barred from bars, nightclubs or other businesses, except for restaurants, that serve alcohol. He also must notify the court when he takes prescription medication.
Jolly was a fixture at left defensive end last season, starting all 16 games for the second straight year and making 75 tackles, which led the team's defensive line. He also had 11 passes defensed, the highest total in the league for a defensive lineman.
With Jolly suspended, Green Bay has moved Ryan Pickett over from nose tackle to end, with B.J. Raji, the team's top pick last year, ready to start in the middle. The Packers also added two defensive ends in April's draft, second-rounder Mike Neal and seventh-rounder C.J. Wilson.
We were pretty good last year, but some of the performances we had toward the end of the year, especially in the last playoff game, we don't feel good about it at all," defensive lineman Cullen Jenkins said. "We know that there's a lot of room for improvement."
It was the defense that led to the Packers' early playoff exit last year, and it's the defense that will make or break the team's Super Bowl hopes this season.
And if anyone is looking for extra motivation during the dog days of training camp, all they need to do is remember the collapse in the Arizona desert in the biggest game of the year.
"It was a lesson learned," safety Nick Collins said. "We were young under B.J. Raji a new system. We just ran out of gas at the wrong time."
Players aren't usually interested in dwelling on the past, but in this case, the Packers hope something good can come from that game.
"Any failure can be used as motivation, and if you don't take it as a mistake and try to correct it and be excited about changing it around, you're taking a step back," linebacker Nick Barnett said. "So we definitely can use that as motivation."
So, what went wrong?
The Packers collided with red-hot quarterback Kurt Warner, who completed 29 of 33 passes for 379 yards as the Cardinals scored on six of their first seven possessions. The Packers fell behind 17-0 in the first quarter and couldn't stop the Cardinals' momentum.
"We made a lot of mistakes, just stupid stuff we were doing good all year long," Barnett said. "We just had too many of them by too many different people."
Jolly, who was indefinitely suspended last month by the NFL for violating the league's substance abuse policy, reached an agreement with prosecutors in his native Houston that could lead to the long-standing drug possession case against him being dismissed.
Jolly received a one-year pretrial diversion, a form of probation that will have the charge against him dismissed in a year if he doesn't break the law and completes other requirements, including 160 hours of community service. Part of the community service will be 10 speaking engagements where he will talk to children and others about the dangers of drug use.
The agreement was reached as Jolly's trial was set to begin this week. He had been facing up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
But even if Jolly avoids jail time, it's unclear whether he'll play again for the Packers after his suspension, which will last at least through this season.
"We're not going to speculate about that right now," general manager Ted Thompson said. "Johnny's got a lot of work to do and we've got a lot of work to do here."
Jolly was charged with possession of a controlled substance — having at least 200 grams of codeine — after being arrested in July 2008 in the parking lot of a Houston club known for drug and gun use. In Jolly's car, police found cups that had a codeine mixture.
"I was disappointed for him," Thompson said. "I like Johnny, and I hope he comes through this OK."
Along with the community service, Jolly will undergo random drug and alcohol testing. He can't drink alcohol and is barred from bars, nightclubs or other businesses, except for restaurants, that serve alcohol. He also must notify the court when he takes prescription medication.
Jolly was a fixture at left defensive end last season, starting all 16 games for the second straight year and making 75 tackles, which led the team's defensive line. He also had 11 passes defensed, the highest total in the league for a defensive lineman.
With Jolly suspended, Green Bay has moved Ryan Pickett over from nose tackle to end, with B.J. Raji, the team's top pick last year, ready to start in the middle. The Packers also added two defensive ends in April's draft, second-rounder Mike Neal and seventh-rounder C.J. Wilson.
We were pretty good last year, but some of the performances we had toward the end of the year, especially in the last playoff game, we don't feel good about it at all," defensive lineman Cullen Jenkins said. "We know that there's a lot of room for improvement."
It was the defense that led to the Packers' early playoff exit last year, and it's the defense that will make or break the team's Super Bowl hopes this season.
And if anyone is looking for extra motivation during the dog days of training camp, all they need to do is remember the collapse in the Arizona desert in the biggest game of the year.
"It was a lesson learned," safety Nick Collins said. "We were young under B.J. Raji a new system. We just ran out of gas at the wrong time."
Players aren't usually interested in dwelling on the past, but in this case, the Packers hope something good can come from that game.
"Any failure can be used as motivation, and if you don't take it as a mistake and try to correct it and be excited about changing it around, you're taking a step back," linebacker Nick Barnett said. "So we definitely can use that as motivation."
So, what went wrong?
The Packers collided with red-hot quarterback Kurt Warner, who completed 29 of 33 passes for 379 yards as the Cardinals scored on six of their first seven possessions. The Packers fell behind 17-0 in the first quarter and couldn't stop the Cardinals' momentum.
"We made a lot of mistakes, just stupid stuff we were doing good all year long," Barnett said. "We just had too many of them by too many different people."
2010年8月3日星期二
Phillip Rivers Provides Solid Foundation for Chargers even with Absent Stars
There's no question now that the San Diego Chargers are Phillip Rivers' team. Rivers has them all under his wing. He is their leader and has his teammates working hard.
The Chargers may be missing some key elements from their team, but they are still the best team in the AFC West.
In the spare time he gets from practice, Rivers has watched Canadian Football League (CFL) games, dissecting plays and looking for clues. Some star players may see football outside the NFL being totally beneath them, but these Chargers are humbled.
The team still has its swagger, but some egos are now not in the locker room either by force or voluntarily. Future hall of fame running back (RB) Ladainian Tomlinson was released this offseason, while wide receiver (WR) Vincent Jackson and offensive tackle (OT) Marcus McNeill are holding out in search of new contracts. Coach Norv Turner still feels confident in his group of guys and says they are working their tails off to prepare for the season.
"This squad has a lot of togetherness, you can feel it," outside linebacker Phillip Rivers Shaun Phillips said. "The big thing we've been preaching around here is to be together and do things as a team. We obviously have talent. We'd want those guys here but the fact of the matter is they're not here so we have to prepare for games without them."
The Chargers do miss a deep threat with Vincent Jackson likely to hold out for most of the season, but they have their share of offensive weapons. Legedu Naanee and Malcolm Floyd are showing they can be great fill-ins. Antonio Gates at tight end can run and catch like a wide receiver. Also Buster Davis is showing signs of improvement. Meanwhile, running back (RB) Darren Sproles is the ideal back for screens and swing routs, and Ryan Matthews can shine even in his rookie season.
You can't forget that the lights are out on linebacker (LB) Shawne Merriman. The emotional leader of the defence is holding out as well for what he claims is to acquire job security. Larry English and Jyles Tucker have stepped in well and may have to continue to do so for a while.
It's hard to ignore the star-power that's missing from this team. The positive side to this is that even with so much talent, the Chargers never won a Super Bowl with any of those guys. Rivers and Gates are the faces of the franchise and the team is taking on a more blue-collar approach to the season.
They never got really deep into the playoffs with the prima donna attitude that seemed to poison the team come playoff time. With the talent they've had, they should've won a Super Bowl by now. They're simply looking for new ways to win. They're working harder than ever, even though this year may be partly about transition with familiar faces gone.
The good news for the team is that they're still in a weak division and can probably win it convincingly even with star players missing. It will take an impact from their younger players and a working-class approach that has propelled the Steelers, Giants and Saints to the Super Bowl in recent memory.
The Chargers have been proof that all the talent in the world still won't necessarily win you championships on talent alone. They have the talent part down. Now they have to begin to develop the intangibles required to win in January and February. They need mental toughness, discipline, leadership and the killer instinct required to use your talent to overcome opponents less talented than you are.
The Chargers may be missing some key elements from their team, but they are still the best team in the AFC West.
In the spare time he gets from practice, Rivers has watched Canadian Football League (CFL) games, dissecting plays and looking for clues. Some star players may see football outside the NFL being totally beneath them, but these Chargers are humbled.
The team still has its swagger, but some egos are now not in the locker room either by force or voluntarily. Future hall of fame running back (RB) Ladainian Tomlinson was released this offseason, while wide receiver (WR) Vincent Jackson and offensive tackle (OT) Marcus McNeill are holding out in search of new contracts. Coach Norv Turner still feels confident in his group of guys and says they are working their tails off to prepare for the season.
"This squad has a lot of togetherness, you can feel it," outside linebacker Phillip Rivers Shaun Phillips said. "The big thing we've been preaching around here is to be together and do things as a team. We obviously have talent. We'd want those guys here but the fact of the matter is they're not here so we have to prepare for games without them."
The Chargers do miss a deep threat with Vincent Jackson likely to hold out for most of the season, but they have their share of offensive weapons. Legedu Naanee and Malcolm Floyd are showing they can be great fill-ins. Antonio Gates at tight end can run and catch like a wide receiver. Also Buster Davis is showing signs of improvement. Meanwhile, running back (RB) Darren Sproles is the ideal back for screens and swing routs, and Ryan Matthews can shine even in his rookie season.
You can't forget that the lights are out on linebacker (LB) Shawne Merriman. The emotional leader of the defence is holding out as well for what he claims is to acquire job security. Larry English and Jyles Tucker have stepped in well and may have to continue to do so for a while.
It's hard to ignore the star-power that's missing from this team. The positive side to this is that even with so much talent, the Chargers never won a Super Bowl with any of those guys. Rivers and Gates are the faces of the franchise and the team is taking on a more blue-collar approach to the season.
They never got really deep into the playoffs with the prima donna attitude that seemed to poison the team come playoff time. With the talent they've had, they should've won a Super Bowl by now. They're simply looking for new ways to win. They're working harder than ever, even though this year may be partly about transition with familiar faces gone.
The good news for the team is that they're still in a weak division and can probably win it convincingly even with star players missing. It will take an impact from their younger players and a working-class approach that has propelled the Steelers, Giants and Saints to the Super Bowl in recent memory.
The Chargers have been proof that all the talent in the world still won't necessarily win you championships on talent alone. They have the talent part down. Now they have to begin to develop the intangibles required to win in January and February. They need mental toughness, discipline, leadership and the killer instinct required to use your talent to overcome opponents less talented than you are.
2010年8月2日星期一
Pittsburgh Steelers left tackle Max Starks
The stability isn't the leading ingredient, though. What really sets the Steelers apart is the way the organization stays true to its identity without being imprisoned by it.
This past off-season provided a perfect snapshot. A pillar of the Steeler organization is character. Pittsburgh is one of America's few major metropolitan areas that can trumpet itself as blue-collar without showing false modesty. The Steelers build their roster with their reputation in the community in mind. This reputation is important enough that when Santonio Holmes, a 26-year-old star with a Super Bowl M.V.P. award on his mantel, was arrested and suspended for a second time, the owner Art Rooney instructed the director of football operations Kevin Colbert to get rid of him – even if it meant trading a first-round talent for a fifth-round pick.
At the same time — and granted, the team walks a very fine line — the Steelers aren't hog-tied by high-character stipulations. The front office was infuriated by the suspension-inducing off-field conduct of Ben Roethlisberger. But, contrary to news media reports in April, the Steelers never seriously explored trades for Roethlisberger. Why?
Because you don't win Super Bowls by trading a 28-year-old two-time champion who has more physical talent than any quarterback in the league. Double standard here? Well, you could certainly argue in the affirmative — and this is where the team leaves itself open to criticism — but not if your standard is maximizing the success of the Steeler brand. Sure, keeping a dishonored quarterback hurts that brand, but not nearly as much as winning helps the brand.
The Steelers publicly censured Roethlisberger and supported Roger Goodell's decision to issue a six-game suspension (barring bad behavior, it will be reduced to four games). And you can bet that even one more legal incident would stamp a ticket out of town. There are concerns about Roethlisberger's reputation in the locker room. But the uncomfortable truth is his reputation hasn't mattered in the past (the two titles).
On the field, the organization is also able to maintain its identity without Brett Keisel being stifled by it. Case in point: there were whispers that the front office wanted the offensive coordinator Bruce Arians fired this spring. The Steelers have long been a run-first team. But in the past two seasons, they've finished 22nd and 19th in rushing. In speaking to reporters about the run game, Arians caused a stir when he joked that his system didn't need a fullback (heresy to Pittsburgh's football purists).
Arians wasn't fired, though. Mike Tomlin realized that, while the offense probably needed more balance, it didn't make a lot of sense to dismiss the guy who called plays in a Super Bowl victory two years ago. A lot of front offices would not have let the head coach make this call. But that's part of the Steelers not being limited by their past. Ownership is humble and flexible enough to let Tomlin do his job.
Foote loosens up the locker room with his nonstop chattering and incessant Ziggy Hood arguing on any subject. Farrior is the defense's acknowledged leader, a reliable perfectionist who's always in the right position to make a tackle or shut down a play.
Last season changed everything. Foote was miserable losing in Detroit, relocating there only so he could remain a starter. Farrior remained Pittsburgh's top tackler but the quality of his play admittedly slipped as the Steelers missed the playoffs.
Back in Pittsburgh this season, Foote intends to remain a starter. To do that, he must beat out Farrior, the oldest starter on one of the NFL's oldest defenses - and a player who isn't the least bit interested in giving up his job.
Pittsburgh Steelers left tackle Max Starks wasn't amused by Chad Ochocinco's recent trash talking. According to an interview Friday with Ken Laird of Pittsburgh's ESPN radio 1250, one statement in particular really bothered Starks, one of the team's locker-room leaders. Ochocinco recently said on his VH1 reality dating show, "Man, I haven't seen this many girls on a football field since the last time we played the Steelers." "That right there said enough for me, and I wish I played defense at that moment," Starks said.
"But you know what, I got a bunch of guys that's going to be in these dorm rooms later Byron Leftwich that will be more than happy to take up that challenge for me. Chad is who he is and he always has his frequent sayings. But some things you just don't say." Starks says he will make sure the Steelers won't forget Ochocinco's statement this season.
This past off-season provided a perfect snapshot. A pillar of the Steeler organization is character. Pittsburgh is one of America's few major metropolitan areas that can trumpet itself as blue-collar without showing false modesty. The Steelers build their roster with their reputation in the community in mind. This reputation is important enough that when Santonio Holmes, a 26-year-old star with a Super Bowl M.V.P. award on his mantel, was arrested and suspended for a second time, the owner Art Rooney instructed the director of football operations Kevin Colbert to get rid of him – even if it meant trading a first-round talent for a fifth-round pick.
At the same time — and granted, the team walks a very fine line — the Steelers aren't hog-tied by high-character stipulations. The front office was infuriated by the suspension-inducing off-field conduct of Ben Roethlisberger. But, contrary to news media reports in April, the Steelers never seriously explored trades for Roethlisberger. Why?
Because you don't win Super Bowls by trading a 28-year-old two-time champion who has more physical talent than any quarterback in the league. Double standard here? Well, you could certainly argue in the affirmative — and this is where the team leaves itself open to criticism — but not if your standard is maximizing the success of the Steeler brand. Sure, keeping a dishonored quarterback hurts that brand, but not nearly as much as winning helps the brand.
The Steelers publicly censured Roethlisberger and supported Roger Goodell's decision to issue a six-game suspension (barring bad behavior, it will be reduced to four games). And you can bet that even one more legal incident would stamp a ticket out of town. There are concerns about Roethlisberger's reputation in the locker room. But the uncomfortable truth is his reputation hasn't mattered in the past (the two titles).
On the field, the organization is also able to maintain its identity without Brett Keisel being stifled by it. Case in point: there were whispers that the front office wanted the offensive coordinator Bruce Arians fired this spring. The Steelers have long been a run-first team. But in the past two seasons, they've finished 22nd and 19th in rushing. In speaking to reporters about the run game, Arians caused a stir when he joked that his system didn't need a fullback (heresy to Pittsburgh's football purists).
Arians wasn't fired, though. Mike Tomlin realized that, while the offense probably needed more balance, it didn't make a lot of sense to dismiss the guy who called plays in a Super Bowl victory two years ago. A lot of front offices would not have let the head coach make this call. But that's part of the Steelers not being limited by their past. Ownership is humble and flexible enough to let Tomlin do his job.
Foote loosens up the locker room with his nonstop chattering and incessant Ziggy Hood arguing on any subject. Farrior is the defense's acknowledged leader, a reliable perfectionist who's always in the right position to make a tackle or shut down a play.
Last season changed everything. Foote was miserable losing in Detroit, relocating there only so he could remain a starter. Farrior remained Pittsburgh's top tackler but the quality of his play admittedly slipped as the Steelers missed the playoffs.
Back in Pittsburgh this season, Foote intends to remain a starter. To do that, he must beat out Farrior, the oldest starter on one of the NFL's oldest defenses - and a player who isn't the least bit interested in giving up his job.
Pittsburgh Steelers left tackle Max Starks wasn't amused by Chad Ochocinco's recent trash talking. According to an interview Friday with Ken Laird of Pittsburgh's ESPN radio 1250, one statement in particular really bothered Starks, one of the team's locker-room leaders. Ochocinco recently said on his VH1 reality dating show, "Man, I haven't seen this many girls on a football field since the last time we played the Steelers." "That right there said enough for me, and I wish I played defense at that moment," Starks said.
"But you know what, I got a bunch of guys that's going to be in these dorm rooms later Byron Leftwich that will be more than happy to take up that challenge for me. Chad is who he is and he always has his frequent sayings. But some things you just don't say." Starks says he will make sure the Steelers won't forget Ochocinco's statement this season.
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