The Indianapolis Colts defeated the Denver Broncos 28-16 yesterday and in doing so set two records and kept them rolling towards a perfect regular season this year. The first and current record they set is a impressive 22nd straight regular season victory eclipsing the 21 stright set by the New England Patriots just last year. You have to be both lucky and good to achieve a streak like this. The second and even more impressive record is the Colts have won 114 games this decade breaking the 113 wins in the 90’s set by the mighty San Francisco 49ers. The Colts are making history each week and are steam rolling towards a improbable 16-0 regular season finish. I would not bet against them achieving that goal and achieving that history.
In yesterday’s victory, they jumped out to a 21-0 lead. Denver closed to 21-16 before their great leader Peyton Manning lead them to a 80 yard drive to salt away the victory. It seems that Manning and the Colts can come up with that kind of scoring drive whenever they need to.
Their next three games are Thursday at Jacksonville, then the Jets at home and then finally at Buffalo. They should pull off that triple and will never be forgotten in the annals of the NFL.
I am truly hoping that they pull this off as I love a team and player like Peyton Manning to make sport memories that will last a lifetime. It makes watching the NFL very enjoyable for me and to any NFL fan that enjoys history in the making. Keep the decade of excellence going, Colts.
Along with the Saints, there is another 12-0 team n the NFL and that is the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts have been another team that has been very good at times but have been very fortunate to be undefeated. They have done it with the great play from their superstar quarterback, Peyton Manning. They have been suspect on the ground this year as Joseph Addai is their top runner only have amassing 662 yards but has twelve touchdowns. The Colts have a upcoming four game stretch that is win manageable on their quest to perfection.
The Colts next game is home to the Denver Broncos. The Broncos are coming off two impressive victories over the Giants and Chiefs. The Colts are in a different league than those two, add the home field advantage, and the Colts should be 13-0. Their next game is at Jacksonville. This could be a tough road game as Jacksonville as looked good at times. Which Jacksonville team will show up is the question. From their it is the Jets at home. The Colts should roll to a victory over them and possibly be within one game of a undefeated season. Their last game would be in the cold at Buffalo. The C0lts usually don’t fair well in the cold but if they are still undefeated that should warm them up wth the motivation to play well and get the victory.
As you see from their upcoming schedule, the Colts have a decent shot for a perfect season. I would love to see them match the 1972 Miami Dolphins and make this a memorable season for NFL fans. Peyton Manning is one of the best quarterbacks ever and deserves a season like this. Colts+Peyton could very well equal perfection.
Washington's Jason Campbell Admires A Fumble Versus Giants
Every Autumn during the NFL pre-season it seems that all analysts are talking about is the prowess of the NFC East. This could not be further from the truth.
Ok, ok, I know you’re saying “The Giants did it only two seasons ago!?” but everyone knows that was a complete fluke, and based on how many other years analysts said someone from the NFC East was going to do it, the division would have 6 rings in the past 10 years.
Every week I have to hear Sal Pal (Paolantonio) covering the Giants and Eagles running his mouth at how their defenses are so stout, while opponents quiver at the variety of talent on their offenses. Ed Werder does his own rendition down south covering the Cowboys. He can’t get much of a rational thought across the screen with that microphone so far up Tony Romo’s tail.
Let’s take a closer look:
New York Giants
Get a pass because they’ve actually won it this decade. However, last year they were the high and mighty favorites only to get knocked out in the 1st round to a streaky Philadelphia squad, in their own house nonetheless, for the 2nd time in a month. This year they were heavy favorites once again, and everyone was riding the train at the start of the season. Of their starting 5 games they were 5-0 with a seemingly big (but clearly now over-rated) victory over the Cowboys. Turns out, all of the victories came against teams that still now have losing records. The following landslide of losses came in dominant fashion, except for the close San Diego game, and a late-win vs. ATL. Last Thursday’s “statement” game now has the G-Men looking for answers while pointing fingers, an ultimate low for the season. Look for them to play spoiler this year and not even come close to fulfilling expectations.
Philadelphia Eagles
Perhaps the most successful group of losers over the past 10+ years. Everyone knows their 5 NFC East crowns, 7 Playoff Appearances, 5 NFC Championship Games, and 1 Superbowl. Since 2004, analysts chose the birds to fly “all the way” and they have only made it once to the big stage. Of their first 5 games, they’ve come out the victor in all but one beat down by the Saints, who are the truth at this point. Things were looking up until coaching idiocracy reared its ugly head again in a disasterous loss to Oakland. Pass 90% of the time against the worst defense against the run in all of the NFL, great choice. This team has so much talent but their coaching staff finds ways to muck it up. Reid eats timeouts faster than Dollar-Menu cheeseburgers, and their offensive coordinator destroys all possibilities of continuity on offense. With the passing of Defensive Coordinator, Jim Johnson, it seemed that the only thing keeping Philly in it for the past couple years was about to go too. Luckily, new guy Sean McDermitt can run the ship, which is saving Reid from ploppin that behind right on the hot seat. Two additional losses so far puts the Eagles at 7-4, and in control of their road to the playoffs. They’ll blow another one, don’t you worry. They’ll probably even make the playoffs, but fulfill Superbowl aspirations? I don’t think so.
Dallas Cowboys
Probably the most consistently over-rated of the bunch. Again, this squad behind Tony Romo and a brand new ridiculous stadium, was expected to run the table. Just like last year, and the year before it, many believed the Cowboys to be the team to beat, even though they failed to win a single playoff game in any year since 1998 under Chan Gailey. They’ve been trying to find the next Jimmy Johnson ever since, and this current attempt with Wade Phillips defines sideline silliness on Sundays. But year in and yea out, they are the favorite to win it all when they haven’t even gotten on the doorstep (well, they were on their way but Romo’s superpowers are only limited to QB duties, not place-holder). So far this year “them Cowboys” dropped games to the hapless Giants, over-rated Broncos (remember when that D was “unstoppable”) and the Packers. They eeked one past the disaster that is the Washington Redskins with a pathetic 7-6 win. Their road doesn’t get much easier with a NYG rematch, then the Chargers, Saints, Skins, and Eagles. Even if they make it through that gauntlet, and win at least one playoff game, their jubilation of that one victory will sidetrack them from the ultimate goal, and again head home early as an over-rated squad.
Washington Redskins
Ok, this could be the only team that hasn’t had high expectations to fill, but they deserve some fault for consistently spending ungodly amounts of money for players that add no value to the team. Mark Brunell, Bruce Smith, Deion Sanders, Shaun Alexander, De’Angelo Hall, Santana Moss, Adam Archuleta, and now an oft-injured Albert Haynesworth for a $100 contract. You gotta hand it to Dan Snyder at trying to be the Yankees of the NFL, but someone get that man an advisor! The poor hogs have been squealin for a quality head coach ever since Gibbs left, returned, then retired again as they’ve been lucky to sneak in only a couple successful seasons since their last NFC East championship in 1999. This year has been no different with the addition of Jim Zorn, the offensive guru who doesn’t even call offensive plays anymore. That sideline circus must have Jason Campbell’s head spinnin. The only plus side is that their defense has been something to look forward to as London Fletcher is a tackling machine.
Say what you want, but once again the beast of the NFC East proves to be mediocre at best. Maybe they just beat themselves up? Who knows, but I guarantee this year ends with the same failed expectations. What do you think?
Here are this week’s game predictions for Week 12 of the NFL. Look for lots of underdogs covering the spread and the two unbeaten teams both getting a one tagged into their loss column.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+13) Over Atlanta Falcons
Even with Michael Turner ready to go again, Atlanta is a team that is reeling and struggling to find its groove. Turner will be slowed by the high ankle sprain, giving the Bucs an open opportunity to steal a victory.
Prediction: Atlanta 20, Tampa Bay 17
Miami Dolphins (-3 1/2) Over Buffalo Bills
The Fins get to travel north during a mild weather span this year against the hapless Bills. Ricky Williams will be running for daylight against this porous defense which has struggled to stop the run.
Prediction: Miami 24, Buffalo 13
Seattle Seahawks (+4) Over St. Louis Rams
If Mark Bulger and Stephen Jackson were healthy, Rams would not only cover, but would post their second victory of the season. Unfortunately, this is not case as the Seahawks come in with a team hungry for a victory.
Prediction: Seattle 20, St. Louis 10
Washington Redskins (+10) Over Philadelphia Eagles
Not sure who set this line in Vegas, but they must have forgot this is a divisional game and that the Eagles always struggle against the Skins. The Redskins defense will play tough, making this game close all the way to the final gun until a likely turnover on the final drive.
Prediction: Philadelphia 17, Washington 16
Carolina Panthers (+3) Over New York Jets
The Panthers are still in the hunt for a playoff spot and need a big win today. The Jets are still reeling from the beating they took in New England. Look for an outright upset here.
Prediction: Carolina 23, New York 10
Cleveland Browns (+14) Over Cincinnati Bengals
Cedric Benson will be back, but probably won’t be at full speed. The Bengals looked out of rhythm in their loss to Oakland and need a healthy Benson to cover this spread. Brady Quinn showed in his last outing why he was a #1 pick in the draft and the new offense play calling scheme was successful.
Prediction: Cincinnati 17, Cleveland 12
Houston Texans (+3 1/2) Over Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are ripe for a loss and are only getting this line because they are still undefeated. The Colts injury report reads like War and Peace. Look for Matt Schaub to make a statement today with Dwight Freeney not in the lineup. Houston with the upset as they hand first loss on the Colts.
Prediction: Houston 24, Indianapolis 21
San Diego Chargers (-14) Over Kansas City Chiefs
It always tough to bet on a two touchdown favorite in the NFL, even when the top team is playing the worst team. The Chargers are clicking on all cylinders and have been given additional fuel to prove themselves after the Broncos ran their mouths in defeat. Expect the Chiefs to feel the brunt of the Chargers anger today.
Prediction: San Diego 31, Kansas City 10
San Francisco 49ers (-3 1/2) Over Jacksonville Jagaurs
The Jags have to take the cross-country trip to San Fran for this matchup. On paper, the Jags are the better team but the jet lag and holiday practice week will play into the Niners favor.
Prediction: San Francisco 20, Jacksonville 16
Chicago Bears (+11) Over Minnesota Vikings
The Bears are primed for a bounceback game after a rough two weeks. Look for Jay Cutler to post some good numbers today and keep this close. A divisional battle which is always a good close game. With Peterson recovering from flu bug and nursing an ankle injury, expect this game to go down to the wire.
Prediction: Minnesota 27, Chicago 20
Tennessee Titans (-3) Over Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals always seem to falter when the come eastward for a game. Vince Young and Chris Johnson are in a rhythm and the Titans looks like the same team from last year. Kurt Warner arrives with a head injury that clears him to play, but will probably cost the Cards the game.
Prediction: Tennessee 23, Arizona 17
Baltimore Ravens (-8.5) Over Pittsburgh Steelers
Ben Roethlisberger is expected to possibly suit up but likely will not see much action. Pittsburgh cannot risk any further injury to him if they want to keep playoff hopes alive. Dennis Dixon isn’t bringing any fear into the hearts of the Ravens defense. Ray Lewis will likely give Dixon a warm welcome to the NFL today.
Prediction: Baltimore 20, Pittsburgh 6
New England Patriots (+3) Over New Orleans Saints
The Saints have been closing in on that first loss for the past few weeks, expect for it to finally happen Monday night. The Patriots had their chance to knock the Colts from the unbeaten ranks, they will not squander this opportunity. Bellichick is a master at find the weakness in a vaunted offensive attack, expect him to figure out Brees and provide the instruction manual on how to dismantle the Saints at playoff time.
How quickly has the tide turned in East Rutherford? After a roaring 5-0 start to kickoff the season, the Giants are on a three game losing streak with very little positive to build upon. Outscored 112-61 during the current losing streak, the Giants are fighting for their lives as the NFC East spotlight shifts to Philly and Dallas.
Where did it all go wrong? Is this a similar train wreck that cannot be turned around like last year’s collapse? Today’s game will be a measuring stick as to whether this Giants team has the resolve to get things turned. They will be faced with stopping another top-tier QB in Phillip Rivers and another lopsided loss will send this team tumbling into the bye week.
So what is really behind this collapse and what needs to be done?
Eli Manning’s injured foot
The Giants are not revealing the extent of the injury and it is clear that it has impacted his performance. Through the first 5 games, Eli sported a 111.7 QB rating, but since his injuring his throw-planting foot, he has generated a 54.4 rating during the losing streak. It appears rest is in order to get the foot back in shape and its time to consider putting David Carr in until Eli is right again. Coughlin should consider a quick yank if Eli starts throwing ducks today.
Brandon Jacobs turning into Nancy Jacobs
The big guy finally cashes in with the huge contract and turns into a tip-toe runner that is bringing back memories of Ron Dayne to the Meadowlands. This offense lives and dies off establishing the run and making 3rd downs reasonable to convert. Jacobs’ ineffectiveness is limiting the number of first downs and killing drives. He must get on track and find that internal fire again for the Giants to have a chance.
Pass Rush Gone Missing
Defensive coordinator Bill Sheridan’s days are numbered if he cannot get a pass rush going this week. You can make excuses for a number of areas on the Giants squad, this is not one off them. The Giants have the most talent-rich defensive line in football and they aren’t delivering. Last week’s showing against a weak Eagles’ offensive line was the icing on proverbial nasty-tasting cake. Sheridan’s schemes are just too predictable and easy to read, leaving an injury-depleted defensive backfield open to be scorched. The D-line must get to the quarterback.
Stop Being Conservative
Tom Coughlin and Kevin Gilbride have made a successful living playing it conservative and winning close. It is now backfiring on them. Down 33-7 last week, the offensive play-calling showed no urgency and stuck to the original game plan…run. During the 3rd quarter, the Giants ran 20 plays, 12 of which were runs. It was as if they forfeited the game. Successful teams are defined by in-game adjustments and Gilbride has displayed an inability to get out of his own rather large ego, not only this year but also last year when he couldn’t change the playback after Plaxico Burress went down. If Gilbride can’t make the adjustments, its time for Coughlin to take over the play calling.
Will the Giants get it turned around today? Fingers are crossed but pessimism is winning the battle. Another loss and its time to get the college scouts revved up for 2010.
