The Man's Free Picks - The Man Says

Terrell Owens: In a class-"less" by Himself
by Reed Lonteen
November 1, 2001

We have all seen and heard athletes talk about their teams performance, or what has transpired from week to week. Sure there are plenty of athletes out there who spout out the typical cliches thanking God for the opportunity to play, praising their teammates, deflecting blame from others, but not Terrell Owens. Terrell loves to make a spectacle of himself at the expense of his organization and teammates.

Last Sunday, San Francisco(4-1) went on the road to Chicago to face the 4-1 Bears. These are two teams who have surprised a lot of people in the NFL and this was to be one of the best matchups of the weekend. San Fran brought their high-powered offensive attack and play-making wide receiver, Owens, to battle the Bear's vaunted defense. Both teams fought for 60 minutes with momentum swings going in each direction. When it looked like San Fran had the game in hand, Chicago bounced back scored an improbable 19 points to tie the game. In overtime, San Fran got the ball and, on their first play from scrimmage, Terrell Owens simply misplayed a ball that was interecepted by Chicago Safety Mike Brown and returned for the game-winning touchdown.

But don't ask Owens about that, the blame for that cannot rest squarely on his shoulders. Owens criticized everything from play-calling, team strategy, and even Coach Mariucci for the loss. Owen's questioned Mariucci's killer instinct, claiming that he may be too entrenched in the NFL coaching fraternity to really put a team away late in the game.

""Hopefully, Coach now, he'll change his mentality about us really destroying teams now," Owens said. "I think it's funny, but ... his buddy system with all the coaches around the league, I think he tries to spare them sometimes. He doesn't want to embarrass a team."

Of course, Owens probably doesn't remember last season when he caught 20 passes for 283 yards against this same Chicago Bear team. Maybe that memory escaped him when San Francisco shut down Chicago 17-0 on "Jerry Rice Day" in San Fran. Maybe he doesn't remember that Chicago's pathetic offense (quarterbacked by even more pathetic Cade McNown) didn't even cross the 50 yard line that day. Or maybe, he doesn't remember the clock winding down and San Francisco taking two knees then calling a play just to get Jerry Rice the ball. I'm sure that wasn't embarassing to a young Chicago defense nor to the Chicago organization. As a matter of fact, Chicago players barely remember last season at all and there was no way they had this game circled on their calendar.

Of course, Terrell Owens owned up to the fact that his one play in over time may have caused the loss in Chicago. If he hadn't misplayed the ball, he could have been the difference maker on a play that - if you ask Jeff Garcia - had Big Play potential. If you ask Owens though, the ball was low and he was just trying to make a play on it.

"I don't mind taking responsibility for that mistake and for the loss, but there were a lot of things that we should have done differently," Owens said.

Sounds to me like he's taking responsibility. It's always funny when an athlete says "I take responsibility, but ..." How about taking responsibility for the fact that last season Owens torched the Bear defense for 20 catches while this game he had 6 catches for 60 yards. Hardly the signature of a marquis wide receiver.

"It just stings me to know we're 4-2 and we could be 5-1, and everybody's raving about the Bears," Owens said. "I saw the demeanor of those guys in the course of the game. I saw Brian Urlacher shake his head. His body language said, 'It's over with.' And then to let them get back in the game, it hurts."

Funny that was the same Brian Urlacher whose presence on that crossing route caused Owens to misplay the final ball and allow the Bears to win, but don't tell Terrell that. He's still trying to figure out who screwed up and lost this game for San Francisco. Don't tell him, maybe he can figure out on his own and then help OJ find the "real killers" as well. I doubt it, but stranger things have happened ... like this guy being even mentioned in the same breath as Jerry Rice.

NFL: All 31 Teams from First to Worst
by Reed Lonteen
November 1, 2001

Just the way I see things after 7 weeks of the NFL. Keep in mind these rankings are not "power rankings" but are just a VERY subjective view thus far into the season. I stand behind these choices but that doesn't necessarily mean they will not change from week to week. Some teams moved up a spot or two with a win, some more, but remember that teams are moved up and down based upon their performance and the performance of the teams around them as well. Translation: Don’t b!tch because your team only moved up 1 spot with a tough win or dropped 4 with a tough loss. The number in parenthesis is how I ranked the team last week:

1. Oakland Raiders(2) - A completely dominant performance as they manhandled the Eagles and a St. Louis loss vaults Oakland into the top spot. These guys are for real and should see a division title.

2. St. Louis Rams(1) - After a 6-0 start, it took 8 turnovers by the offense to finally lose a game. Hats off to a gutty New Orleans team that wouldn't lie down. The Rams fall from the top spot but not by much as they are still the top in the NFC.

3. Chicago Bears(3) - A dramatic come from behind victory topped off by a defensive TD in overtime, keeps the Bears at the #3 spot. The defense surrendered only 17 points to one of the top NFL offenses and shut down the running game again. Rookie Anthony Thomas followed up last weeks 188 yard performance with a 127 yard performance and helped my FFL team stay a perfect 7-0.

4. Pittsburgh Steelers(4) – Steelers dominated Tennessee on Monday night and look ready to move up the list. This week will be telling as they play host to Baltimore.

5. San Diego Chargers(5) - San Diego will not move up in a last minute win over Buffalo but they won't move down either. Flutie is magic - he's a frickin' troll doll with a strong arm and a will to win. How could you not like having this guy run your team - I'm looking at you Greg Williams.

6. Miami Dolphins(8) - A hard-fought win over the Seahawks gets the Dolphins the number 6 spot this week. When the running game faltered, Jay Fiedler stepped it up and got them another win.

7. Green Bay Packers(7) - Favre and the Pack take a week off and get healthy for the second half gauntlet.

8. New Orleans Saints(12) - The Saints were quite obviously looking past Atlanta last week when they got their butts handed to them in their home dome. This week, they showed a lot of heart as they did two things no one could do thus far. They beat the undefeated Rams and they beat them at St. Louis where Warner had never lost. That is extremely impressive and boosts the Saints to #8. Before too many Saints fans argue they should be #1, don't bother - losses to Atlanta and New York keep you out of the top 5 for now.

9. Cleveland Browns(9) - Still sitting at #9 but will have their mettle tested this week in Chicago.

10. San Francisco 49'ers(6) - San Francisco looked good against the Bears, but their defense (the biggest question on this team) both picked them up (scoring 2 TD's off turnovers) and let them down (allowing Chicago to overcome a 19 point deficit). San Fran doesn't drop out of the top 10, but they're going to need that defense to step up.

11. Denver Broncos(13) - Denver caught fire late and managed to quell the upstart Patriots. The Broncs capitalized on 4 Brady interceptions and Rod Smith had a field day in the New England secondary. The Broncs move up to #11 but stay tuned to see if they make their charge back up the chart.

12. Philedelphia Eagles(10) - I said I wouldn't move this team up into the top 10 until I saw what they did against Oakland. As it is, I was right and Philly drops 2 spots this week as they get ready to head to Arizona.

13. Cincinnati Bengals(15) - Cincinnati took their first two steps to becoming a good team by 1) Beating a team they SHOULD beat, and 2) Winning on the road. The Bengals are in a tough division and will need to do more of both to see the playoffs this year.

14. Atlanta Falcons(14) - Atlanta enjoyed a bye week and should be ready to take on the Patriots this week.

15. Baltimore Ravens(16) - The Ravens squeaked by the battered Jags. A win's a win so they move up this week but not by much. The real test starts this week as the Ravens have 3 of 4 division games on the road in November.

16. Tampa Bay Buccaneers(21) - I said this team had too much talent to be ranked out of the the top 20. Apparently, Tony Dungy heard me and the Bucs are back to 3-3. Brad Johnson finally got the passing game going while the Bucs defense looked like the Bucs defense. It may be jumping the gun placing them at 16, but we will see as they go on the road to Lambeau this week.

17. Seattle Seahawks(18) - Despite my warnings, Holmgren started Matt Hasslebeck and damn near beat a good Miami team. The 'Hawks move up a spot based on their performance and look like they could possibly have a late season charge as they go on the road 3 times in November to play Washington, Buffalo and KC.

18. New York Giants(11) - After losing two straight by one point, I was wrong. New York didn't get mad, they got beat by a bad Washington team. Thunder and Lightning got nowhere and Tony Banks and Stephen Davis looked like the Rams. New York falls to 18th and get's Dallas this week which should be an easy win - except for the fact that Washington should have been easy too.

19. New York Jets(19) - A one-point win over the Panthers is not enough for me to buy into the Jets just yet. This team is still as inconsistent as any team in the NFL. This week will be a big benchmark as they travel to the Big Easy to batttle the Saints.

20. Indianapolis Colts(23) - The Colts got it going this week but still allowed Kansas City to put up 28 points. The Colts are an offensive juggernaut, but their defense makes other teams look a lot better. I would have thought they learned their lesson from the Rams last season, but apparently not.

21. New England Patriots(17) - Tom Brady finally broke his Interception-less streak and did it in grand fashion handing out 4 picks to the Denver secondary. The Pats hope that this week was just a product of bad luck as they face Atlanta.

22. Minnesota Vikings(20) - Just as quickly as they got in the top 20, they dropped out. I'm not going to say Minnesota is done this season, but it's getting awfully close. They still haven't found their running game and their secondary is still terrible. You can't win on the road in the NFL with that combination.

23. Buffalo Bills(25) - The Bills move up this week as they played a very good game against the Chargers. Rob Johnson has looked good the last 2 weeks and maybe he can get this team going. I won't hold my breath, but stranger things have happened this season.

24. Dallas Cowboys(28) - A jump by circumstance. No, a win over 'Zona doesn't boost your ranking by 4 spots but the Jags and Chiefs sliding further does. The Cowboys may have found their QB in Clint Stoerner but we'll see what Jerry Jones has to say about it.

25. Tennessee Titans(24) – A complete and total a$$- whipping by the Steelers confirms what many suspected – the Titans are no longer the AFC Central powerhouse.

26. Arizona Cardinals(22) - Just when I sing the praises of their offense, they get shut down by the lowly Cowboys. The outlook doesn't look too good as the Giants and Eagles come calling in the next two weeks.

27. Washington Redskins(29) - The Deadskins have a pulse. Two straight wins and looking for a third against Seattle this week. I still don't think they're very good, but here's to hoping Redskin fans.

28. Jacksonville Jaguars(26) - The Jags are going nowhere fast and their defense let them down this week allowing Randall Cunningham and the Ravens to come back from a 17-6 deficit. Look on the bright side, at least they stopped the 2 point conversions.

29. Kansas City Chiefs(27) - The Chiefs drop two spots with another loss. This one at the hands of the Colts. It's not so much the Chiefs should drop back, but there are other crappy teams around them that didn't look so crappy.

30. Carolina Panthers(30) - Will everyone please quit singing the praises of Chris Weinke?!? AGAIN!!!

31. Detroit Lions(31) - The Lions are still winless and still a cellar dweller. Hats off to them by showing some life after Corey Dillon ripped them in Cincy's first play from scrimmage for a 90+ yard TD.

From First to Worst: All 31 Teams Heading into Week 7
by Reed Lonteen
October 28th, 2001

Just the way I see things after 6 weeks of the NFL. Keep in mind these rankings are not "power rankings" but are just a VERY subjective view thus far into the season. I stand behind these choices but that doesn't necessarily mean they will not change from week to week. Actually if they never changed I would be 1) an idiot, or 2) the best prognosticator on earth. So here we go:

1. St. Louis Rams - This is the easiest pick of the week. Well, actually tied for the easiest as the winless Lions bottom out this list. This team is getting it done without Marshall AND on both sides of the ball. NFL teams be afraid, be very afraid.

2. Oakland Raiders - A loss to Miami doesn't taint this team. I said this year's Super Bowl would be won by Oakland or Denver - whoever won the AFC West. In retorspect I had no idea St. Louis would be this good and that San Diego could just as easily come out of the AFC West and make my prediction true as well. For right now though, this is the AFC team to beat.

3. Chicago Bears - Yes send the hate mail, but I do not put them here lightly. A 31-3 drumming of the Falcons (who've lost twice in OT to San Fran and beat New Orleans) gets them up here. A 24-0 domination of Cincy at Cincy, validates them as that was something that neither Cleveland, Baltimore or New England could do. Granted it wasn't the same New England team on a hot streak who played the Bengals in week 1, but this also isn't the same Chicago team that lost there only game in week 1 at Baltimore.

4. Pittsburgh Steelers - This is a team that all of a sudden looks like they're pretty damn good. Everyone knows that Kordell is as inconsistent as they come, but does it matter when Jerome Bettis is in a zone?

5. San Diego Chargers - People thought after a 2 game slide they were a fluke. Then they realized New England is outstanding with Brady at QB and those Browns are for real. A nice win over Denver helped drive that point home.

6. San Francisco 49'ers - This is an offensive juggernaut when Jeff Garcia has the keys. The question still remains though about if their defense can hold up. So far the defense has been unimpressive, but San Fran has found a way to win - his name is Terrell Owens.

7. Green Bay Packers - This team should be the #2 team in the NFL, but you don't get that honor when you're completely shut down by the Viking defense. Favre and the Pack have looked good thus far, but this week was pathetic and dropped them to 7th.

8. Miami Dolphins - I cannot in good conscious rank these guys in the top 5 until they play a full 60 minutes against the Jets. Miami is a tough AFC team, but they still have lots to prove after their dismantling by the Rams and the Jets.

9. Cleveland Browns - Anybody find it funny that the Browns and Steelers are the only two AFC Central teams in the top 10 this week? The Browns have been getting it done on offense and defense and are an up and coming team in the NFL.

10. Philedelphia Eagles - McNabb is a winner and he showed us it again on Sunday night. The defense is pretty good and the running game could be outstanding with Buckhalter and Staley splitting time. This is a team with good balance and a great young quarterback. Their losses to Arizona and St. Louis help them round out the top 10. I'll be the first to admit they may be better than 10, but I'll wait until next week.

11. New York Giants - A loss to the Ealges doesn't drop this team too far. They've played quality teams and have shown some great defense; now, they need to show 4 quarters of great defense but I have faith in Jim Fassel.

12. New Orleans Saints - A loss to Atlanta at home looks bad on paper but Atlanta is much better than they are given credit for. The Saints still have one of the best running backs in the game, now they need to get their young QB untracked.

13. Denver Broncos - The loss of Ed McCaffrey has looked like it hurt more than it did. Griese arms a problem, but this team has one of the best coaches in the NFL. A 3-3 team ranked 13th is a bit of a stretch but I believe this team will get back to winning very soon.

14. Atlanta Falcons - OK, here's a 3-3 team that people often dismiss until you realize Chandler is healthy (for a change) and their 3 losses have come at the hands of San Fran (twice) and Chicago. Don't overlook these dirty birds.

15. Cincinnati Bengals - Every team this team played so far, win or lose, is .500 or better. A 3-3 mark is impressive with such a schedule, BUT the Bengals need to prove they can win on the road before they move up.

16. Baltimore Ravens - I cannot in good faith move this team up until they get their offensive woes taken care of. I think Searcy will provide a big boost to that offensive line which may be the jump start these guys need. Unfortunately, he won't be back for another week or so.

17. New England Patriots - These guys are playing outstanding football right now. The only reason they are back at 17 is two wins came over divison rival Indianapolis. I think this team is ready to move up and I'm on board the Brady bandwagon.

18. Seattle Seahawks - I cannot rank this team any higher until Mike Holmgren give Trent Dilfer the full-time starting job. They have an improving defense and it looks like Shaun Alexander is the real deal. Now let's see Holmgren admit he was wrong and start Dilfer over "The Hassle".

19. New York Jets - I never know which team will show up. They continuosly get toasted in the first half of games. You never know what you're going to get from week to week with this team. Until they show some consistency, they are hovering just inside the top 20.

20. Minnesota Vikings - Guess who just snuck back into the .500 realm? This team is still not very good though, but Sunday will go a long way in finding confidence in that defense. This team has plenty of offensive weapons, but still has one of the worst secondaries in the NFL.

21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - This team is much too talented defensively to keep looking as bad as they have. Tony Dungy has always been able to light a fire under these guys, now's a good time.

22. Arizona Cardinals - That offensive line gives this team reason for hope as Michael Pittman is running hard and Jake Plummer and David Boston are on the same page. If Plummer gets hot, this team can upset some apple carts this year.

23. Indianapolis Colts - No defense, none, zero, zip. I don't care if you have the Triplets - they've all put up some big numbers, but that has no bearing. Want to know why Manning is throwing so many interceptions? He is forcing passes because unless that offense scores big, they're not going to win.

24. Tennessee Titans - Two field goal wins by the Titans must feel like the days of old. Unfortunately that once vaunted defense is now a shell of what it used to be. If Titan fans are thinking McNair and company can continue to win shootouts- think again.

25. Buffalo Bills - The Bills defense isn't all that bad, but their offense is terrible. A good win over the Jags on Thursday helped this team get out of the bottom five but I'm not sure for how long.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars - The way they started I thought they world beaters, but then injuries caught up and these guys began to look old and vulnerable.

27. Kansas City Chiefs - Not this year Dickey V. I was expecting a lot more out of Trent Green and the Chiefs - I am very disappointed.

28. Dallas Cowboys - Still a quarterback and supporting talent away from respectability.

29. Washington Redskins - An overtime win over Carolina still doesn't mean squat. This team was done in week 1.

30. Carolina Panthers - Will everyone please quit singing the praises of Chris Weinke?!?

31. Detroit Lions - Batch and the offense have moved the ball; unfortunately everyone else moves the ball on their defense. As a Bear fan, I am truly happy they are in the NFC Central.

The Real Top College Quarterbacks
by Reed Lonteen
October 8th, 2001

I love these "expert"'s who tell who is the top QB's to watch. If they want to talk about QB's, here's list of QB's to watch PERIOD. Not just seniors in NO SPECIFIC order:

1. David Carr, Senior, Fresno State - The upstart Bulldogs can thank their team leader David Carr for their start. Carr possesses a good arm and great play-making skills that will have scouts giving him a number of looks up until draft day. A solid 2nd rounder whose stock is still rising.

2. Joey Harrington, Senior, Oregon - A rifle arm and decent scrambling ability, Joey Harrington is a future first round draft choice. He's a playmaker with all the tools to be an NFL quarterback and - if his numbers aren't lying - it looks like he's getting even better. Look for Detroit, Washington, Chicago, and Pittsburgh to battle it out on draft day for this guy.

3. Major Applewhite, Senior, Texas - Someone will take a chance in the late rounds to take this kid from Baton Rouge. Applewhite is the Doug Flutie of the NCAA ranks - all he does is win but he was passed over in favor of Chris Simm's who throws prettier passes, but is not the same caliber QB as Applewhite. Simms has the big arm but not the intangibles that Applewhite brings to the table. Whoever takes this kid will get the steal of the draft in the 7th round.

4. Zak Kustok - I really don't know how this guy is left off countless lists. All he does is win. Kustok doesn't have a big arm, but he is accurate and can "create" well and make things happen. Anyone passing on this guy will be sorry in 2 or 3 years.

Guys to avoid on draft day:

1. George Godsey, Senior, Georgia Tech - The single-most overrated QB in college football. He has terrible mechanics, a mediocre arm, and is bolstered by a team with a soft schedule and terrific defense. He'll be lucky to see a practice squad in the NFL.

2. Eric Crouch, Senior, Nebraska - The second most overrated QB in the NCAA. You want a guy who can win against lesser competition then Crouch is your man. He's fast but has a terrible arm and accuracy. Crouch may make the NFL, but it will be as a safety or special teams player at best.

3. Antwaan Randle El, Senior, Indiana - An exciting player, Randle El could be a top-notch Wide Receiver or Defensive Back at the NFL level. He is the best player on a terrible team, so that's why he remains a QB. Someone will take this guy based solely on athleticism in the first 2 rounds, but Randle El will be converted to a different position in the pro ranks.

Future stars:
1. Luke McCown, Sophmore, Louisianna Tech - McCown took over the starting job at La. Tech in his 5th game his freshman year and hasn't looked back. Tech is 2-2 this year dropping close games to Fresno State and Oklahoma State on the road, and beating SMU and San Jose State very soundly at home. McCown has some very big shoes to fill and is doing it quite nicely as a Sophmore. Tech's last great QB? Tim Rattay, the #2 man on the depth chart at San Francisco this season.

2. Dave Ragone, Junior, Louisville - At 6'4, 230 Dave Ragone has all of the weapons to be a top NCAA quarterback and a potential NFL starter. Ragone tends to struggle against "big-time" competition and whether that's a product of Louisville's athleticism or a mental block of Ragone's I'm not sure but I do know that he is 14-4 as a starter and finds ways to win. Regardless, if he foregoes a senior season he is solid to go no later than the early 3rd round.

3. Ken Dorsey, Junior, Miami(FLA) - When this guy goes to the draft, you can bet he'll be the top choice. Dorsey is a proven winner with everything a quarterback needs to be successful at the next level. If Dorsey foregoes his senior season, look for him to be the top pick in the draft and with good reason.

Observations from the First Week of College Action
By Reed Lonteen
Septemember 5, 2001

I enjoyed the real opening of College football season, the first full Saturday card, in the bright lights of Las Vegas. Sure I was there to get married, but we strategically set the wedding to 8:30 PT so I could watch all but a few games from the comfort of the Treasure Island Sports Book. To be honest, I heard Caesar's was the place to be, but I was unimpressed; plus, we were staying at Treasure Island and I like my creature comforts. I could always meander upstairs to my room if I needed something. Regardless, with now 2 weeks under way into the College season, I have a few picks and observations. Just some nostrademus type stuff for those of you who think I'm going soft on "The Man Says". So here it goes:

Nebraska will wait until next year or beyond. The black shirts are still there, but their offense still does not impress me nor does Crouch. The guy is one of the most overrated QB's in College football. They have a very good team and will see a major bowl, but a national title is out of the question.

Speaking of overrated, can anyone please telll me why the names Godsey and Heisman are uttered in the same sentence. The guy is not only overrated he is plain not good. Georgia Tech will not win the ACC this year - book it.

Fresno State has started off the season with two BIG TIME wins over Colorado and Oregon State. Colorado is not as bad as they looked in their first game; Oregon State is not as good as they have been. What's it all mean? Fresno State is a force to be reckoned with - it'll be interesting if they can maintain their composure this week in Wisconsin.

Virginia Tech lost what's left of the franchise when Suggs went down playing in the 3rd quarter against perennial powerhouse UConn. Note to Beamer - if you're going to run up the score with your starters - try covering the spread!

So, who are front runners for this year's National Title? Well, if we can find proper vote counters, the state of Florida looks to be in contention for housing this year's top team. Florida State is a powerhouse every year even without Chris Weinke. Steve Spurrier will have Florida on their toes all season. Miami's Ken Dorsey is a top-notch QB with great intagibles. Right now, Miami looks the best out of the Florida teams. However, they still have to contend with Oklahoma and that Sooner defense. Oklahoma looks like a solid contender as they will try to repeat their national title bid.

Wanted: More white players. Please contact the NFL.
By Reed Lonteen
July 27, 2001

Sounds ridiculous doesn’t it? In a league filled with world-class athletes, talent wins out. Sure there are some guys that never develop; guys who seem to have it all but don’t make it because the breaks they had or the team that drafted them. Take for instance Desmond Howard, Howard had a couple shining years as a return man (namely a Super Bowl MVP), but he never was the great player he was in College. Or take for instance unknown Kurt Warner; here’s a guy who was bagging groceries before the 1999 season started and went on to be one of the most improbable and terrific Cinderella stories in NFL history. So why did one succeed where one failed? Talent? Breaks? Luck? Maybe all three, but race? Is racism keeping Desmond Howard a so-so return man and not a bonafide star? Is the “Old Boy Network” (as the media likes to refer to it) making American dreams for Cinderella white boys? I know, it’s ridiculous to even think that – in the NFL, talent wins out. So why does the NFL need more Black owners and coaches?

In the United States the approximate breakdown of races is 83% white, 13% black, 3% Asian, 1% American Indian. Since Hispanic can be of any race, the census estimates that there are nearly 12% of the population is Hispanic and grouped in one of the aforementioned races. That means that for every 8 white people, there are 2 “others” in this country. That should mean in business – and the NFL is one of the biggest businesses in this country – for every 8 whites there should be 2 “others”. There are 31 teams that have 28 white coaches and 3 Black coaches. Hey, where are the Hispanic coaches – there should be at least 3 of them right? How about the athletes – would you be surprised that nearly 67% of all athletes are Black? Why are there not more White and Hispanic athletes? Hispanic Coaches? Talent wins out.

I’m tired of watching the media over-hype the fact that there are not enough black owners in the NFL. Last I saw, the NFL was never averse to expanding (hence the realignment which will begin in 2002 to let ANOTHER Texas team join the NFL). If there needs to be more black owners, that sounds like a job for the NAACP to worry about not the media. Last I saw, owners were responsible for their own teams because they were – OWNERS. They took their own money – in some cases too much (see Dan Snyder) – and bought their ball club. Some owners meddle too much – See Snyder and Jerry Jones – some don’t seem to care they own a team – see the McCaskey family, but all have one thing in common – they took their own money and bought a team. What keeps a guy, gal, or family from owning a sport franchise? A fat checkbook. If anything as Americans we should have learned by now money can buy just about anything, including justice … or a decent NFL team. Maybe the only thing keeping black owners out of the NFL is they don’t want to pal around with a bunch of middle- or elder-aged, white guys. I don’t know why, but I’m tired of hearing about it.

I have a solution, get Jesse Jackson to buy a team. He seems to be concerned with the plight of NFL owners and head coaches. After the 1999 season, the Rev called for an investigation into the firing of Green Bay head coach Ray Rhodes. Rhodes had taken over the reigns of the Pack after long time coach Mike Holmgren left for the “perceived” greener pastures of Seattle. Rhodes took a team that had been to 7 consecutive post-season berths, and were only one year removed from back-to-back Super Bowl appearances, to an 8-8 season. As analysts and Packer fans expected, heads rolled and Rhodes was the first to go. As I’m sure Reverend Jackson does not spend his free Sundays on the 50 at Lambeau, I have to assume that this move was racially motivated. Were people surprised by this move – not really, it goes on every season in the NFL. Talent wins out. But the media, and the “activists” find cause to take up arms against the NFL – why? If anyone came in there and went 8-8 they would have been fired and deservedly so for a team that was used to excellence. To add insult to injury, the Pack not only lost their home-game winning streak, but they lost to the hated Bears in Lambeau – sacrilege of the worst kind!

For the activists and the media and everyone else trying to stir up hype – please leave the NFL alone. The NFL’s image problems are deserving. Players who cannot keep their tempers or their butt’s out of jail or their nose out of drugs, but the last thing we need as fans is every chance to play the “race card”. I never heard once, the Giants this season say “Boy if we only had more black guys in the front office we would’ve beat Baltimore that game.” Ozzie Newsome is “the man” in that Baltimore front office – not because he’s Black, or a former player, or anything else. Ozzie is “the man” because he is smart and works his ass off. I have never heard a fan of Tampa or Minnesota complain – “Boy we woulda’ went all the way if we had a white coach!” When it comes to fans, nobody cares about color unless it’s the color of the player’s jersey.

The NFL is one of the few games left that have a growing fan-base who could care less if their favorite receiver, quarterback, running back, line backer, etc. is Black, White, Hispanic, or any other ethnic demographic. Fans care about winning and their team. I’ve seen fans of all walks of life come together; I myself have struck up conversations with a complete stranger because they wear an NFL hat or shirt with a Bear’s logo. When I go to a game do I look for my favorite white guy? NO! I look for my favorite player – I yell at the coach for being an idiot, I scream at Marcus Robinson to “GO! GO! GO!”, I throw up my arms every time Brain Urlacher makes a big hit, and I “boo” every time Cade McNown takes the field. I am a true fan – I care about my team – and I have no time for media with nothing to do or activists looking for another medium. Bill Romanowski didn’t spit in Owens face out of racism – it was out of asshole’ism which Romanowski has cornered the market. The media knows that but it sure is fun to stir up trouble. Kordell Stewart isn’t a bad quarterback because he is (or isn’t) a homosexual – he’s a bad quarterback because he’s just NOT GOOD – the media knows that as well. And I don’t hate Deion Sanders because he’s black – I just can’t stand Sanders because I think he’s a punk-bitch in a sport of men – the media doesn’t know that, and I could give a damn. I am a fan and there are millions just like me, so let’s play some football and leave all the other crap for the morons who know nothing about athletics or the greatest game in the world.

It Could Happen: Eight Stories ripped out of the NFL 2001 Season
by Reed Lonteen
July 16, 2001

With the NFL getting closer day by day, I looked deep into my crystal ball and found some compelling stories just waiting to be told. Sorry to ruin the season for all of you, but I wouldn't be a good reporter if I failed to pass along some of the greatest NFL stories yet to come:

8) Vike's Moss Shown the Money
In a surprise move this week, the Minnesota Vikings Randy Moss dumped yet another agent and hired rapper Master P to represent him in negotiations with the Vikings. Master P gained notoriety by handling Ricky Williams's first, incentive-laden contract. P, a master negotiator, has quickly hammered out the details to make Moss possibly one of the highest paid players in the NFL. The deal calls for a $1 million per year base salary over the next 10 years; however, the incentives is really where the money lies:
A) A $500,000 bonus for each interview in which Moss does not refer to himself in the 3rd person.
B) A $1.5 million bonus for each block Moss throws throughout the season.
C) A $1 million bonus for taking less than 2 dozen plays off in a single game.
D) A $1 million bonus for NOT complaining to Culpepper that he was open - must log less than a dozen complaints in a single game.
E) A $10 million bonus for winning the Nobel Peace Prize.
With the new incentive structure, Vikings officials estimate that Moss could make nearly $11 million this season - that tally, of course, depends on the voting for the Nobel Peace Prize this year.

7) Keyshawn Calls it Quits!
Just two weeks into the NFL schedule and Keyshawn Johnson is taking his "damn ball" and going home. After tireless efforts to draw spotlight and become a team distraction, Johnson finally realized he was simply outclassed by newcomer Ryan Leaf. Johnson has not ruled out a return to the NFL, but only to a team "that (Leaf) doesn't play for." To help in his comeback endeavor, Johnson has already hired a "dream team" consulting staff to help his efforts and should return as loud and distracting as ever with help from former distractions Albert Belle, Michael Irvin, John McEnroe, and Dennis Rodman.

6) Sponsorship for Dallas Star
With each NFL stadium trying desperately to raise money for improvements to the owner's pocketbook, the Dallas Cowboys have announced that OWENS Corning will now sponsor the Dallas Star located at the 50 yard line of Texas Stadium. From now on, the star will simply have the company named scrawled across it in large letters: OWENS. Reaction from around the league included a 49'ers statement claiming: "It was a smart move - whether it was one Owens or another - it was obvious that Dallas no longer had any interest in owning it."

5) Vick #1
Michael Vick continued to impress all season as the multi-talented one played nearly every position on the field for Atlanta. Vick lead the team in passing yards and attempts, receptions, reception yards, rushing yards, TD's, defensive interceptions, return yards, and tied for 3rd in tackles. Atlanta got more than they paid for from this superstar and managed to make a marked improvement from last year's 4-12 record to a solid 5-11 this season.

4) Tragedy and Triumph in Cincy
On a sad note, a plane filled with the entire Cincinnati Bengals team and front office people perished in Week 1 of the season. The crash nearly devastated all 6 of Cincy's fans, but in the end the replacement players - mostly made up of Cincinnati blue collar workers and mental patients - managed to finish 8-8 on the season. Newest head coach Anthony "Boom Boom" Wilkins - a former "street hustler" - earned the sentimental vote for Coach of the Year as Wilkins's offensive coordinator "The Doctor" Johnny Fever was voted #1 offensive coordinator by men aged 24 to 34 and women 18 to 42. No word yet on whether Defensive Guru Venus Flytrap will return for the 2002 season. In a related story, Lonnie Anderson was made head of personnel for the organization and should bring some big assets to the front office.

3) Johnson calls Van Pelt a "cancer"
After a disappointing 0-2 start for this year's Buffalo Bills, quarterback Rob Johnson was knocked unconscious when he tripped over the 20 yard line. Johnson felt faint and was out for 6 weeks. During that time, career backup Alex Van Pelt lead the Bills to a 4-2 record. Johnson, now back and healthy, has dropped 2 straight games. Johnson blames his losses on a divided locker room caused by Van Pelt. Quote Johnson, "The guy is a cancer. He comes in and wins a couple games - who cares! Now he thinks he should be a starter just for having a good record? This is the NFL - just look at my contract!" Former Bills quarterback Doug Flutie (now with San Diego) refused comment but hung up the phone laughing maniacally.

2) Washington Wins Superbowl!
The Washington Redskins put the pieces in place for a Superbowl run one year after being favorites to contend for the Lombardi trophy. Insiders attribute this year's Superbowl run to the 'Skins preseason week 3 accident in which a specially-outfitted Boeing 727 left DC carrying the ego's of Deion Sanders, Jeff George, and Daniel Snyder. The plane went down somewhere in the Florida everglades and was never recovered. "The Three Amigos" - as the press has now affectionately dubbed them - could not be reached for comment as they have spent their time since the Superbowl traveling the world for charity.

In a somewhat related story, former head coach Marty Schottenheimer is still missing after his disappearance just hours after Washington's season ending victory in Week 17. Some insiders also attribute the 'Skins Superbowl run to Schottenheimer's disappearance though not in a good way.

1) Dennis Miller Fired!
Dennis Miller was fired at halftime last night of the St. Louis-Detroit game for 137 inappropriate uses of the name "Faulk" in the first half alone. Miller, the newcomer last season to the NFL's most hallowed night of action, seemed to be catching his groove and adjusting to PG-rated television. It seems though that a game involving Marshall Faulk was just entirely too much of an invitation to the irreverent comic - but of course that's just this reporter's "Faulk"ing opinion and I could be wrong ...

Contenders, Pretenders, and Dark Horses: A 2001 NFL Preview
by Reed Lonteen
July 3, 2001

The 2001 season will kick off much like the 2000 season, wondering which long shot can upset the defending champion and take the Lombardi trophy. Two straight years we've seen a non-playoff team rise from the ashes and turn the NFL upside down. So who is this year's 200-1 money maker, the team you can drop a dime on and walk away the next Vegas millionaire? Well sit back and relax, pull the kids out of school, grab the college fund and drop it on our dark horses this year and our contenders. We have 6 teams that could win it all this year, and I guarantee one of'em will win it, but before you mortgage you're future keep in mind the 3 Superbowl teams are not long shots by any stretch. I believe this year's Superbowl winner will return to the norm and be a top contender, so without further ado, here are this year's best bets, long shots, and sucker bets:

The Roy Jones Jr.'s of the NFL
Pound for pound, guy for guy, these teams are the best in the NFL. I've narrowed it down to three teams who should have a legitimate shot at winning the Superbowl this year. I am of the VERY strong opinion that this year's Superbowl winner will come from the AFC West, but I guess that's why it's nearly Independence and New Year's Eve is a long way off.

3. Tampa Bay Bucs
The Bucs have kept nearly their entire team intact and this year they have brought on Brad Johnson to bring some consistency to their offense. Johnson is a big-time QB with an arm to boot. After suffering through years of inconsistency with Trent Dilfer and (recently) Shaun King the Bucs finally have a QB they can rally around. They also have a solid receiving corp anchored by Keyshawn "Throw me the damn Ball!" Johnson that should get very excited about having a Pro-Bowler calling the shots. The offense is ready, the defense is ready, and Tampa is finally going to see the Super Bowl ... but lose.

2. Oakland Raiders
The division winners from last season will be back and better - which should scare the hell out of anyone they play against this year. Oakland signed Charlie Garner who will have an immediate impact on their running game. As if they weren't balanced enough, the defense was bolstered by veterans Trace Armstrong (DE-Miami) and Ryan Phillips (LB-NYG). With losses of only two key players, and terrific offseason moves, the Raiders will be in the thick of the Superbowl hunt with their division mate the ...

1. Denver Broncos
Once the joke of the NFL - and my favorite TV show "The Simpsons". The Denver Broncos have found a guiding force in Mike Shanahan. Denver, like Oakland, bolstered both their offense and defense in the offseason. Ray Rhodes takes over as Defensive Coordinator and will have plenty of new talent to utilize. With an offense that ranked 2nd in scoring last season, the only question mark remains how well will Griese's shoulder hold up. The offseason signing of veteran QB Steve Burlein will provide an insurance policy for an offense deep (and talented) in the skill offensive positions. The Broncos are the most talented team in the NFL, and have only improved from last season. If they win the division - which they are an odds-on favorite in Vegas right now - they will win the Superbowl. If they don't - Oakland will win the division and the Superbowl.

"I coulda' been somebody - I coulda' been a contender ..."
We've heard all the hype and we've seen the oddsmaker's take - hell, we've seen just about everybody in the free world tout these guys, but the truth is - they just don't have it this season. Don't let the rest fool ya - these guys will miss the playoffs ...

1. Washington Redskins
I have no idea how these guys are the favorites to win the NFC East. With the Giants and Eagles dominating the conference last season - the Skins are even money favorites to win it this year. Marty Schottenheimer takes his shot after sitting behind the sports desk. Washington lost some of its best (and underachieving) players on both sides of the ball and was so constricted by the cap that they managed to only place bodies in the vacated seats. Thanks to last year's spending spree the Redskins are a worse team than last year's 8-8 squad and have even less depth at any given position. If you can find odds AGAINST them winning the division, take'em.

2. Minnesota Vikings
The Vikes need to fill minimum of two holes in the offensive line; Culpepper's running ability is no longer a secret; and the best running back in Minnesota's history took Randy Moss's advice (to Chris Carter to be fair) and took early retirement. Last season's playoff's - and end of the season losing streak - showed the key to beating Minnesota which is STOP THE RUNNING GAME. Culpepper is good, but he's not capable of threading needles and bringing the Vikes back from a deficit. With questions at running back and the o-line and virtually no improvement on Defense, the Vikes are in for a long, long season. Denny Green has surprised before, but this year it's just too big a hole even for the Vikes.

3. Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are the favorite to win the AFC East after finishing second last season. However, after an offseason filled with questions about Edgerin James, a full 16-game season by each "triplet" that lead to the Colts almost missing the playoffs, and a defense that saw little or no improvement - the Colts are ready for another let-down. Even a second-rank schedule will be tough on the Colts who have aspirations of a Superbowl but seem reluctant to put any serious money into their inconsistent defense. With an improved Jets team and as difficult of a schedule as last season, the Colts will miss the playoffs this year after a, at best, 9-7 year.

"And down the stretch they come ...": The dark horses of the NFL
As always these guys are worth a one(1) unit "fun bet" that could pay off in a big way. If the last two years has taught us anything, we have learned a wonderful formula: (Bad Team) * (Big Offseason) + (Favorable Schedule) = Longshot Winner!!! These are some of the long shots to make the playoffs much less the Superbowl, but let's see who can shock the world this season:

4. Chicago Bears
Yeah, I know being a fan I'll probably get beat-up on this selection, but a long, long, long time ago I found out that sentimentalism is for weddings, funerals, and gambling losers. Whenever I break down teams its with a forced (and quite learned) objectional style. I pick apart each weakness and exploit each "supposed" strength.

The Bears last season were supposed to contend for the NFC Central and were a playoff possibility. So what happened? Cade McNown, the Bears franchise QB, regressed and their franchise Wide Receiver, Marcus Robinson, spent most of the season injured as did their 2nd Wide out Bobby Engram. The Bears offense struggled in every aspect of their game and consequentially, the Defense and Special Teams also suffered. This season the Bears return a much better defense with last year's Defensive Rookie of the Year Brian Urlacher. The offense has brought in playmaking running backs Anthony "A-Train" Thomas and Skip Hicks to join 1000-yard back James Allen. Rookie David Terrell adds another deep threat and could team with Robinson to become the best wide receiver tandem since - OK , fine - Moss/Carter. All they need is ... someone to throw the damn ball. Unless Dilfer is signed by the Bears, there best bet is Jim Miller coming off his Achilles Tendon injury; Miller has the big arm to really take advantage of Robinson and Terrell and has already been reported as the #1 or #2 guy in Chicago this year.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh 9-7 season last year showed a team of resilience. Two terrible calls cost Pittsburgh an 11-5 year and a trip to the playoffs. A third place finish will help the Steelers' chances this season as they fight for the playoffs. Unfortunately, they may get edged in the Wild Card by the ...

2. Kansas City Chiefs
I have trouble believing Dick Vermeil came out of retirement ready to take a 9-7 team, rebuild it, and win a Superbowl. KC did their best to improve a suspect defense and immediately added a viable running game with the signing of Priest Holmes. Just in case Trent Green missed the high-powered Ram offense, Dickey V inked underrated Tony Horne to compliment two of the best targets in the business - wide out Derrick Alexander and tight end Tony Gonzalez. The defense made a few steps toward respectability but should be a year or two removed from reaching its full potential. In my opinion it will be the Chiefs or the Steelers who win the battle over an AFC Wild Card, but both are more than worth the mention.

1. New York Jets
New Head Coach Herman Edwards inherits a team that is ready to make the playoffs. The Jets third place finish last season will actually help with this year's schedule. Watch for Vinny and the Jets to not only contend for the AFC East, but make some noise in the playoffs as well.

With this year's "Pre" Pre-season prediction on paper and out; it's only natural to anticipate the "hate-mail" that this year's will inspire. Just as a reminder though folks - 1) it's pre-season and anything can happen, and 2) I am much, much smarter than you so - get over it :-)

MISSING: The first damn clue, if found please contact Texas Stadium - ask for Jerry
June 7, 2001

Football fans everywhere are left scratching their heads as they look to Big D'Oh and Jerry Jones recent comments on the Felony Boys prospects for 2001. Jones insists that his Cowboys will win 10 games this year and contend for the playoffs. "The Man" has tried to contact several Dallas officials for explaination and have found these as the only plausible possibilities:

1) Troy Aikman was hit so hard and often last year that Jones himself is experiencing post-concussion side-effects ... OR
2) Jones was on an all-night bender with Michael "Felony-Maker" Irvin before his interview ...

Either way, the stellar 5-11 record the Cowboy's achieved last season hardly has the NFC East quaking in terror. With Dallas' offseason magic they've managed to pickup Tony Banks, a guy demoted to 2nd-string last season in favor of Trent Dilfer, to replace hall of famer Troy Aikman; use their top pick on Georgia's under-achieving Quincy Carter - hey the guy played
like hell when he wasn't getting paid and trying to impress the scouts, now that he's got the money what do you think he'll do?; and give Dave Campo a vote of confidence - a guy I wouldn't entrust a mediocre AFL team with.

I never pegged Jones as the eternal optimist, but then again I don't have to pay those big salaries for such a small return. When Jones comes back to reality, someone may also want to tell him that Emmit Smith has less than 2 years left in him as well. Emmit will, in all acuality, reach Walter Payton's mark for career rushing yards, but I don't see it being A) pretty, or
B)beneficial to the Cowboys. This team is stuck in neutral while it should be rebuilding and regardless of Jerry Jones's lofty expecatations, the Cowboys will be bottom-feeders again this season. Don't beleive me? See Daniel Snyder for further proof of owner's expecatations and the reality that is the NFL.

Lakers and Sixers: At least I'll get a nap in
June 5, 2001

The Lakers and Sixers will kickoff the NBA championship series tomorrow night and I thought I'd give my 2 cents on the NBA series. Two words: BORE - RING. If anyone is still clinging to the hope that that Lakers will get dethroned, here's your wake-up call. Secondly, anyone who dismisses Phil Jackson as a great NBA coach, get a fucking clue. This guy is about to win his eight NBA championship in 11 years. Is Jackson lucky that each team he coaches seems to have the 2 most dominant players in the NBA at the time (see Michael Jordan/Scottie Pippen or Shaquille O'Neal/Kobe Bryant) - I say no, he plans on it. Jackson evaluates talent like no one else and can hold a team togehter through thick and thin. Screw the "Kobe and Shaq don't get along", try winning 6 championships with the likes of Michael Jordan (not putting Mike down, but even his own teammates thought he was an asshole and super ego - of course the public didn't hear that until much later after he retired - AGAIN).

Iverson and the Sixers will come into LA off of two 7 game series, Shaq and company have had 10 days to rest. Iverson has been bumped and banged all season long, Eric Snow has a broken foot, and Dikembe Mutumbo will have to go one-on-one with the big fella. On top of that, whose gonna guard Kobe - Snow?!? Sorry to send the Philly fans home teary-eyed already, but this series is over before it starts. The only team with a chance to knock off the Lakers was crushed in 4 games by ... the Lakers nonetheless. San Antonio never showed up and went home in 4.

Though I'm not ready to pull the broom out, I can't see this lasting more than 5 games. I'll give Philly one game based on Iverson's heart and nothing more, but the Lakers will control this series from the get-go and should easily cruise to their second NBA Championship. As much as I cannot stand Shaq, Rick Fox, and Kobe Bryant, the three will collect another ring with barely a sweat broken. With the ratings down, the excitement lost, and the NBA sliding down the tubes farther, I think I'll nejoy a nap and dream about the upcoming NFL season where the Bears will do their best Bulls imitation.

The PGA: Physically-"UN"challenged Golfer's Association
May 29, 2001

First of all, I absolutely cannot buy the idea that riding a cart over walking gives one competitor and advantage over another. All of these years, the PGA calls these guys athletes and prides themselves on how great there athletes are. So you're trying to tell me that a guy should get tired walking 18 holes? They don't even carry their own clubs for chrissakes.

So Casey Martin gets to ride a golf cart. Big freakin' deal. With every penny the PGA tries to squeeze out of sponsors, I can only see this as another way for them to make money. Take a look at NASCAR, and soon we'll see Casey Martin's Calloway golf cart. When he wins, he'll thank his sponsors and talk about how well his cart held up all day.

The PGA needs to choose its battles a little more carefully. It's ridiculous to think they would want to disqualify people for disabilities beyond their control. If Tiger Woods was suddenly diagnosed with this degenerative disease, the PGA would have Rolls Royce golf carts out there. And for any of the idiots who think that Martin has an unfair advantage - tough shit. Get in the gym and get some strength and fitness training. You play golf for a fucking living, all of us should be so lucky.

The Resurrection King
May 23, 2001

The biggest coup of the last 20 years in boxing was celebrated when Hasim "Rock" Rahman knocked out an under-trained, overconfident Lennox Lewis in South Africa. Rahman not only shocked the world, he resurrected the career of Evander Holyfield and illustrated not only why we hate Don King, but why he's the best of the worst.

It is hardly a well-kept secret that Don King is the biggest low-life in a sport filled with low-lifes and shady deals. King, with all of his shortcomings, is nothing short of a genius when it comes to positioning himself. Evander Holyfield, Don King's meal ticket for the past years (especially after Tyson left him), looked like a washed-up boxer. He'd been losing and showed that even John Ruiz, a boxer who a prime Holyfield would have destroyed, is not a formidable foe for the aging champion. But like a thunderbolt from Allah, Rahman shocks the world, King signs the "Rock", and King and company are once again in the driver seat.

King has already began talking about a unification title pitting the winner of August's Holyfield-Ruiz 3, taking on Rahman for the unified heavyweight crown. This ensures at least 3 major paydays for King. The contender's fight, the unification fight, and at least one more fight when the unified champion defends his crowns. To stretch it out however, King will probably only allow the winner to put one crown on the line at a time. In the meantime, the odd men out are Lennox Lewis ( a man who hates King with a passion) and Mike Tyson (ditto for King and Lewis). King can sit back and keep the biggest threats in the division at bay while he reaps the rewards of having the three most powerful (at this time) men in the heavyweight division in his stable.

So who will win the unified crown? The smart money, and the crooked money, is on Holyfield. If he can stay upright in Beijing, Holyfield will retain the title, and then the entire sport of boxing will be abuzz about the unification of the heavyweight crown. Not only that, Holyfield is still the biggest draw in boxing; whose going to pay big money to watch Ruiz-Rahman for the unified crown? No one, and Don King knows that.

Titans: Ready to pay big bucks for mediocrity
May 19, 2001

Steve McNair is currently negotiating a contract with Tennessee that may make him one of the highest payed QB’s in the NFL., and frankly I don’t see a god damn reason why?!? OK, I'm sick of the hype - I'm tired of hearing Steve McNair's name mentioned as a great NFL quarterback. The guy was a college phenom, yes. He does have exceptional running ability and he does have a winning record in the NFL (41-23 as a starter). But he also has Eddie George running the ball and, arguably, the best defense in the NFL watching his back. For (at least) the last 2 seasons the Titans needed to change their nickname to the "Del Greco's". When Al's leg fails, the Titans lose - why? Because their offense is centered around three legs - two from Eddie George and one from Del Greco.

McNair's sole purpose in life is to not turn the ball over - hence the reason he posted such "huge" numbers last year with (I do admit respectable) 62.3% completion percentage with 15 TD's and 13 Int's. Hardly the stuff legends are made of. Let's break that down a bit also; Eddie George posted another 1500 yard rushing year and caught 50 (yeah, count'em 50!) passes last year for a total (rushing and receiving) of nearly 2000 yards. Frank Wychek, a sure-handed tight end (not exactly a big play TE in the mold of a Sharpe, Coates, or Jones), led the team (again) in receptions with 70. Nearly half of McNair's 248 completions came in dump passes to tight ends and backs. Why? Because McNair's job is to not lose. Throw the short stuff and load up Eddie George out of the backfield. When in trouble, use that big frame and those monster legs to run the ball. It's almost an option offense when McNair drops back to pass - a short dump to George or Wychek, or a scramble by McNair. The defense stuffs the opposition and the offense capitalizes by long, George-intensive drives often ending with a George TD run or a Del Greco field goal. When the game is tight at the end, Del Greco bails them out - a plan that backfired last season more than it ever had.

I firmly believe that any scrambling QB could run this offense - throw in a big arm and you have a superbowl winner, not just a contender. The Ravens and the Bucs used free agency to address their quarterback problems realizing the safe “don’t lose it for us” approach was not the way of the future for their franchises; however, Tennessee continues with the status quo ready to throw big money at a player who would play 2nd string to any number of any NFL quarterbacks including several available and recently signed free agents. The Titan's right now are working out a multi-year deal with McNair that could make him the highest paid player in the organization and maybe near the top for NFL quarterbacks. My advice to Tennessee, save your money and invest it heavily in the defense and Eddie George. Oh, and by the way, you may want to take care of that Del Greco guy - he's the difference between a couple 8-8 seasons and 2 solid playoff runs.