51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XXIV

The Super Bowl is just 28 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 28 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

Louisiana’s Superdome hosted Super Bowl XXIV on January 28, 1990. The game pitted the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers against the Denver Broncos of the American Football Conference. The 49ers were looking to defend their World Championship and attempting to win their fourth Super Bowl in nine seasons. The Broncos captured their third AFC championship in the last four seasons. However, they were still seeking that elusive first Super Bowl championship.

San Francisco 49ers 28 Years Ago

The 1989 49ers were simply awesome. In fact, it could be argued that they were one of the five greatest teams in NFL history. This team had no weaknesses. Their top-ranked offense and third-ranked defense only lost twice on the season (by a combined 5 points). They were undefeated on the road and they embarrassed their two playoff opponents. When they beat the LA Rams in the NFC Championship game 30-3, they went to the Super Bowl for more of a coronation rather than a game.

Denver Broncos 28 Years Ago

While the NFC was a cakewalk, the AFC was ultra-competitive. Denver earned the top seed. Once again, Dan Reeves and John Elway led a team full of heart and effort. They were not great on offense. But, when the game was on the line, Elway was clutch city.

They were great on defense, however. Wade Phillips had three Pro Bowlers: safety Dennis Smith, tackle Greg Kragen, and linebacker Karl Mecklenberg. Also, they had a great rookie free safety by the name of Steve Atwater.

In the playoffs, Denver came back to beat Pittsburgh, 24-23 and were never threatened in a 37-21 triumph over Cleveland. It was the third time in four seasons that the Broncos dispatched the Browns from the playoffs.

Destruction

Going into Super Bowl XXIV, nobody gave Denver a chance to win. It turned out worse…much, much worse than could ever been expected. The Dolphins of the ‘70s won their Super Bowls with a boring, soul-sucking attack. The Steelers of the ‘70s won their Super Bowls with a litany of skill-players on both sides of the ball. There were the Cowboys of the ‘90s and their incredible offensive line and speed on defense.

In Super Bowl XXIV, the 49ers brought all of the above to the table and one could never have thought they were watching the TWO best football teams in the league. San Francisco scored 8 touchdowns on the day! Joe Montana pitched a perfect game, throwing for five scores in the process. Jerry Rice scored three times. The defense allowed just 167 total yards and caused four turnovers. The result: 55-10.

John Elway played a terrible game. But, he would be back. He won his first Super Bowl eight years later, a true testament to his character.

Likewise, the 49ers would win their next Super Bowl five years later. But, Montana would not be a part of that team.

Tomorrow, we’ll see how the 49ers’ efforts at a “three-peat” were thwarted. Also, we’ll get to know a feisty group from upstate New York. Super Bowl XXIV was a rout of epic proportions. Super Bowl XXV was an all-time classic.

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

The ESPN Article Tells Us Nothing

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The ESPN Article Tells Us Nothing

Via fox59.com

The ESPN article on the rift in New England is nothing new. The main Boston media and myself have been saying for weeks that there’s a rift. Belichick, Brady, and Kraft stand united because that’s what is best for the team. The only thing that matters right now is getting ready for the playoffs. Did Belichick want to keep Garoppolo? Yes. Did Kraft side with Brady? Yes. Brady is the franchise guy and the most important player in the sport. Robert Kraft spoke to Peter King and denied the ESPN report saying it was, “A total fabrication and fiction. I am telling you, it’s fiction”.

Jimmy Garoppolo Feels Betrayed by Patriots

Via FanastyPros

According to my source Jimmy Garoppolo feels betrayed by the Patriots, and also thinks Brady went to Kraft to have him traded. Kraft spoke about the trade to Peter King, saying,

“I assumed once the season started, we’d talk again at the end of the season about it. The next time I spoke with Bill about it was the Monday before the trade deadline. He called me on that Monday and said he got a deal with San Francisco for a second-round pick and quarterback Brian Hoyer. Turns out they had to cut Hoyer and then we got him. But really, this was basically a second-round pick and Brian Hoyer for Jimmy. Bill asked me if I was OK with this. I was really taken aback a little bit. I wanted to think about it I talked to Jonathan, who was okay with it, and I called Bill back and said, ‘OK’.”

Kraft would never admit Brady went to him to trade Jimmy. We will never know if that happened. But if Jimmy thinks that, then something was going on behind the scenes. Also, Jimmy Garoppolo being denied access to the TB12 Center is a lie, according to team broadcaster Scott Zolak.

Belichick to the Giants? False (For Now)

Via NY Daily News

I also wrote that Belichick could coach the Giants. Not sure if he would next season but maybe in the near future. It wouldn’t surprise me. Kraft also denied the report telling Peter King he absolutely believes Belichick will be back in 2018. Adam Schefter also believes Belichick will be the coach in 2018. The main focus right now is getting ready for the playoffs.

Top 5 Most Surprising Teams of the NFL Season

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5. MINNESOTA VIKINGS (13-3)

What a year for the Vikes. The expectation of them entering the season was to possibly makes the playoffs. It was a sure thing that their defense would be one of the better units in the league. However, a plethora of questions remained on the other side of the ball. Teddy Bridgewater was hurt and Sam Bradford had an inconsistent past. It was difficult to gauge how well the offense would perform heading into the season. Luckily, rookie RB Dalvin Cook provided a much-needed spark. Then things went downhill as Sam Bradford and Dalvin Cook both went down for the year. So… who was there to save the day? (Or the season, I suppose). A man who goes by the name of Case Keenum. Yup — you heard me.

Mr. Keenum had a not so successful career entering the season. In 26 career starts he had just 24 TD passes and 20 interceptions. This year was quite the turnaround. Keenum threw 22 TD’s and just seven interceptions in his 15 games. He ranked second in the league in total QBR at 69.8, one spot behind Carson Wentz. Also, one spot ahead of Mr. Tom Brady. Keenum certainly deservses high praise for his borderline MVP effort this season. He is the central reason why Minnesota was able to become the 10th best offense in the league, averaging 23.9 points per game.

Of course, the defense deserves some love too. The defense was a very good unit last year and was even better this year. They only surrendered a league-best 275.9 yards per game. Also, they lead the league in points allowed per game at 15.8. So, is it fair to say they have the best defense in the league? I’d say so. Would not want to play this team in the cold weather in the playoffs.

4. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (13-3)

armaninfo.com

Just like their aforementioned NFC pals, the Eagles finished the season 13-3. They also received elite QB play from a player who was not considered elite entering the season. What is more impressive about the Eagles is that they were not really expected to do so well this year. Last year, they were rather mediocre, as they finished 7-9 in a tough division. In 2016 they finished 16th in points scored per game and 12th in points allowed. Very average. However, they knew they had a bright future as they seemingly found the next best young QB in Carson Wentz. Luckily for the Eagles, the future came faster than expected.

The 2016 rookie that seemed full of potential blossomed into the MVP front-runner prior to injury. Wentz missed the final three games of the season and will not be returning until next season. Had he stayed healthy, many believe he would have one the MVP award. The impressive thing about the Eagles is that they lost their MVP-caliber QB and still had success. Foles proved to be a viable backup and the defense kept on doing what it does. Sans Wentz, a Superbowl victory will be difficult, but not out of the question. Philly has to be excited with the potential of this team’s future.

3. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (11-5)

The Saints — most famously known for thoroughly enjoying 7-9 seasons. It’s something they just love to do since winning the Superbowl back in 2009. In fact, they finished 7-9 each of the past three seasons and four of the past five. There must be something about 7-9 that is so appealing to that organization. Anyway, I was expecting more of the same from them this year, losing high scoring shootouts. Here is how a typical Saints game had gone over the past five seasons: Brees throws for 400 yards and four TD’s but the defense played like a high school team, Saints lose 48-45. Poor Drew.

Finally, the Saints broke the 7-9 mold this year. They finished 11-5 which is quite a significant improvement. The difference was that they finally had a solid defense. One of the biggest reasons for the defensive improvement was CB Marshon Lattimore, who has quickly become one of the best CB’s in the game. A rookie on the other side of the ball was also an enormous addition. Alvin Kamara is so dangerous because he is a talented runner out of the backfield and is also a very good pass catcher. He averaged 6.1 yards per carry and 10.2 yards per reception for 13 total TD’s. Along with Mark Ingram, their run game is nearly impossible to stop. I am sure Brees is relieved to not have to throw for 500 yards every game, he now acts more as a facilitator.

2. JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (10-6)

firstcoastnews.com

The lone AFC team to make the list, and boy would it be a boring conference without the Jag’s emergence. Perhaps a team not located in Pittsburgh or New England could make some noise in the playoffs this year. Jacksonville’s success has come from the excellent defense they have played all year. Their pass rush was relentless all season. They finished the year second in sacks with 55, lead by Calais Campbell’s 14.5.

The defensive improvements were a huge help to QB Blake Bortles. In the past Bortles has shown some flashes of skilled QB play, but he often makes untimely mistakes. With an elite defense behind him, he was able to focus on taking care of the ball instead of having to try to make things happen. He threw a career low 13 interceptions and had a viable quarter back rating of 84.7. If Bortles can take care of the ball and the defense continues to dominate, Jacksonville will be a tough out in the playoffs.

LOS ANGELES RAMS (11-5)

Wow, did not see this coming. The Rams have flat-out sucked for a long time. From 2004 to 2016 the Rams had a record of 64-127-1. This poor stretch was expected to continue as the offense looked terrible no matter who was under center. Goff unfortunately did not appear to be the answer in his rookie season and it appeared that Gurley’s talents were being wasted in an abysmal offense. The defense had shown flashes in recent years but never was able to play consistently. Well finally, the Rams have figured it out. Goff is playing exceptionally, Gurley had room to run and the defense shows up every week. The only thing this team lacks is experience. They are a very young yet explosive team. I think their youth may be their downfall in the playoffs. However the playoffs will be great experience for their young players.

Regardless of how the season ends the Rams have to like the spot they are in. It looks like Goff and Gurley will be the center of the offense for years to come. Also, young coach Sean McVay looks like he knows was he is doing to say the least. He took the leagues worst offense from 2016 and turned it into the leagues best as they more-than doubled their points per game total from 14 to 29.9, remarkable. The defense also improved from 23rd to 12th in points per game.

*Questions or comments? find me on Twitter @MLBfromNH*

*Featured Picture credit to turfshowtimes.com*

Rozier and Smart: Sparking the Celtics Bench

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The Celtics beat the Timberwolves 91-84, which was a season low in scoring for the Wolves. According to EVERY sports media outlet, the Cs have now beaten seven of the top teams in the NBA, holding them all under 100 points. It’s also important to point out that they’ve won their last five games, with heavy contributions from Rozier and Smart off of the bench.

Rozier: Finding Comfort in His Role

I know when I used to watch Rozier with the ball, I would get nervous. Why you ask? Because he dribbles too much! But as of late, I don’t mind his dribbling because his shots are falling. In the last six games, he’s averaged 15.3 points and hit 17 threes. He’s been able to do this in an average of 23 minutes off of the bench. Impressive huh? Well, I sure think so, especially when you consider is performance against Cleveland: 20 points and 4-6 from three. After that clutch steal and basket in Indiana, I knew it was just a matter of time.

Smart: Consistent Confidence

Although Smart is only averaging 11.5 points in the last six games, as we go further back we can see his production on offense. I wrote an article back in December about him finding his confidence on the offensive side of the ball. I’d say he’s been pretty reliable since his turnaround, only having six games under 10 points since late November. And of course, if he can’t give you his best on offense, he’s always going to do his job on defense. Don’t believe me? Go watch the final seconds of that Rockets game where he drew two offensive fouls off of Harden — back to back! Though, something else I have noticed is Smart’s unwavering confidence. He’s not afraid to continue taking shots even if the first few don’t fall because he knows eventually, he’ll get hot.

Rozier and Smart Creating Depth

Rozier and Smart’s sparking of this Celtics bench has rubbed off on everyone. Theis, Larkin, and Baynes when he comes off the bench, have each had a couple of productive nights. Irving is also starting to take somewhat of a backseat in scoring, as we saw in the game against Cleveland. Him doing so is allowing for the development of all the younger guys on the team, bench and starters. This is the type of consistency we’ve called for this season. Let’s see if they can keep it going!

The Celtics have a game at Brooklyn, then they’ll be getting ready for their London match up against the 76ers. After the Brooklyn game, we won’t see our guys on the hardwood until the 11th. But don’t fret Boston fans— this means some more rest for the Celtics, which they so rightfully deserve.

32-10 and leading the East. Go Celtics!

David Price Opt Out is For the Best

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David Price’s career in Boston can be described as shaky at best. There are Price lovers and Price haters, most fans can agree that Price has not been all that. Fighting with fans, Hall of Famers, and the media, Price cannot handle the pressures of playing in Boston. David Price’s 7 year/ $217 million contract came a year after Jon Lester was offered a 4 year/ $70 million contract. Lester is a good pitcher who can perform in the playoffs. However he was 30, and according to John Henry the Red Sox refuse to sign pitchers over 30.

Before Boston

Price is sensitive, and cannot handle big games. Dave Dombrowski and the Red Sox still still gave him one of the biggest contracts ever given to a pitcher. Before Price was verbally assaulting Hall of Famers, he was attacking Red Sox fans on Twitter. Price is about as tough as a plastic bag in a tree. He also went after David Ortiz for the unholy act of admiring the two home runs he hit in the playoffs. David Ortiz again proved himself the bigger man by burying the hatchet. It seemed that Price would never sign here, and if he did it would be a huge mistake. Like Carl Crawford, Price went blind at all those zeroes.

2016

Price was “Ace” going into the 2016 season. He was “saving all his postseason wins for the Red Sox”. At the end of the season his ERA was 3.99, which is not good at all. Price is making the same amount of money that Clayton Kershaw is, and that’s how he turned out? Kershaw had a 1.69 ERA in 2016. Many would argue and say it is unfair to compare Price and Kershaw, but why is that? Price is making that much money and supposedly one of the league’s top pitchers. Why can he not perform like the league’s top talent?

Price started 35 games that season and threw 230 innings. He also ended with a record of 17-9. All that is impressive, but Price can’t have an ERA that high. Price was rocked in the playoffs, giving up 5 runs in 3.1 innings pitched. After the season, Price was critical of reporters for having the audacity to point out that he has never won a playoff game as a starter.

2017

Price started the season with an elbow injury in spring training. This caused the former Cy Young Award winner to miss significant time this past season. Even though Price was not on the mound all season, he was certainly in the news. During a rehab start in Pawtucket, Price’s play was not good, and the boo’s fell down on him. Price missed his scheduled interview with the media and quickly drove away. His record: 6-3 with a much lower 3.38 ERA in 74.2 innings pitched. Price, to the delight of his cowardly teammates, went after Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley on a team flight. This season was one headache after another. Price was outstanding coming out of the bullpen in the playoffs, but the Red Sox need starters to show up in the postseason.

Going Forward

The best-case scenario going forward is that Price either dominates or is at least decent this season. The Red Sox need production from their starters, and Price needs another big contract. Price will be 32 this season and his performance will continue to go down. His elbow is still in question. The Red Sox get what they can from Price, let him opt out, and move on. They would save themselves $119 and a whole lot of headaches.

Follow Matt McGurn on Twitter: @MickGurn

Media Credit: www.bosoxinjection.com

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XXIII

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The Super Bowl is just 29 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 29 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

South Florida hosted Super Bowl XXIII on January 22, 1989. The game pitted the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers against the Cincinnati Bengals of the American Football Conference. This was the third rematch in Super Bowl history. The 49ers won Super Bowl XVI over the Bengals 26-21.

San Francisco 49ers 29 Years Ago

The 1988 49ers were very ordinary through the first eleven weeks. They tallied a 6-5 record including two awful offensive showings against the Bears and Raiders. But, this 49ers’ team had a player that had not been a part of their previous championship squads. Jerry Rice. By 1988, Rice embarked on destroying the NFL record book at the wide receiver position.

Led by Rice’s extraordinary talent, Bill Walsh’s 49ers won four straight. They clinched the division in week 15 when they defeated New Orleans.

In the playoffs, they got their revenge on the Vikings in convincing fashion. In the NFC Championship game played at Soldier Field in freezing Chicago, the finesse 49ers pounded the 12-4 Bears. Thus, they put to bed the myth that they were an all-offense, no-defense football team. That was simply untrue. The 1988 49ers featured an excellent defense led by veteran Ronnie Lott and youngster Bill Romanowski. The Bears never had a chance. Rice scored an electrifying early TD. Hence, San Francisco was on their way to a 28-3 win and their third Super Bowl appearance.

Cincinnati Bengals 29 Years Ago

Their opponents would be the Cincinnati Bengals. The ’88 Bengals were complete opposites of the 1981 team that last made the Super Bowl. Coach Sam Wyche implemented a sophisticated, up tempo, no huddle offense. Here is the point: Nobody ran that offense before 1988 on a consistent basis. Wyche utilized the intellect of his quarterback, Maryland grad Boomer Esiason. One of the great left-handed throwers in league history, Esiason went on to win league-MVP.

In the playoffs, in an effort to slow down the Bengals, the Seattle Seahawks were instructed to feign injury. The Bengals overcame that lunacy winning 21-13.

In the AFC championship game, the Bengals unraveled and unnerved their opponents, the young and hungry Buffalo Bills, 21-10. Rookie Ickey Woods rushed for two scores and did his famous “Ickey shuffle” on the sidelines. The underappreciated James Brooks also scored. Therefore, the Bengals and 49ers were set to square off in what appeared to be a very even Super Bowl match-up. It turned out to be just that!

Slow Start

The first quarter was marred by two terrible injuries. San Francisco’s offensive tackle Steve Wallace broke his leg on third play of the game. Moments later, Tim Krumrie, Cincinnati’s defensive leader at nose tackle, broke his ankle in the most gruesome injury in Super Bowl history.

Though slow in spots, there were many things to love about this game. For example, the 49ers punished Brooks, Woods and Esiason. Indeed, Cincinnati’s offense did very little on the day. They only accounted for three field goals. Yet, the game was tied 3-3 and 6-6.

The first touchdown of the game was scored by the Bengals’ Stanford Jennings on a kickoff return. In many ways, this was the pinnacle of the Cincinnati’s NFL franchise. They headed to the fourth quarter against Bill Walsh and Joe Montana leading 13-6.

Exciting Finish

On the first play of the fourth quarter, things started to change. Montana hit Roger Craig for 40 yards. Two plays later, Jerry Rice scored on a phenomenal play to tie the score. San Francisco moved the ball well the rest of the game. Yet, they trailed Cincinnati 16-13 with 3:44 left on the clock.

Then, Joe Montana did what he did. He led his team on a glorious 92-yard touchdown drive to win the Super Bowl. One of the most important plays was a beautiful 27-yard gainer from Montana to Rice on a 2^nd and 20 with 1:17 to play. From the 10, Montana found John Taylor running up the left seam. He fired a bullet. And the NIners were champs again.

After the game, Bill Walsh stepped as aside as San Francisco’s coach. But, their dynasty was not over. In fact, they were virtually unbeatable in 1989 under defensive-genius George Siefert.

However, the Bengals never got back to the heights they experienced in 1988. In the nineties, they were awful. In the 2000’s, they were good, but could not win in the playoffs.

So, when one wants to re-watch the Bengals at their finest, they inevitably will get the privilege to see Joe Montana at his finest as well.

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

51 Super Bowls in 51 Days – Super Bowl XXII

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The Super Bowl is just 30 days away. Let’s look at the Super Bowl from 30 years ago to honor this not that significant occasion!

San Diego hosted Super Bowl XXII on January 31, 1988. The game pitted the NFC champion Washington Redskins against the Denver Broncos of the American Football Conference. The 1987 season was one of the most bizarre and unpredictable campaigns in NFL history due to the players’ strike. One game was cancelled, and three other games were played by replacements.

Washington Redskins 30 Years Ago

When the dust cleared, the Redskins had the jumpstart on the NFC. They finished 11-4 thanks to their replacements. Redskins’ scabs finished a shocking 3-0. That record included a win on Monday Night against the Cowboys where many of the Dallas veterans had already crossed the picket line.

The regular players for the Skins included veteran QB Doug Williams and a superb group of wide receivers on offense. On defense, their strength was in their defensive line. Charles Mann and Dexter Manley were outstanding. Darrell Green was an all-world cornerback.

In the playoffs for the second consecutive season, Washington went into Chicago and knocked off the favored Bears. Green’s punt-return in which he hurdled a Bear and sprained his ribs is a play for the ages. This was Walter Payton’s last game.

In the NFC championship game, Washington survived a valiant Vikings’ team. Minnesota had finished the regular season with an 8-7 record. However, they won at 12-3 New Orleans and 13-2 San Francisco. Their win over the 49ers was so decisive even Joe Montana was benched.

Washington’s defense was up to the challenge. They hammered Vikings’ quarterback Wade Wilson throughout the game. Williams had an awful game, but led Washington on a winning drive. With Washington ahead 17-10, the Vikings had one last shot on 4^th down from the 4-yard line. Wilson’s throw went off the hands of Darrin Nelson and fell incomplete. The Redskins were off to their fourth Super Bowl.

Denver Broncos 30 Years Ago

The Broncos were favored to repeat as AFC champions. They had much the same line up that propelled them to the Super Bowl in 1986. However, they added a terrific rookie receiver named Ricky. Ricky Nattiel joined Mark Jackson and Vance Johnson. They were known as “The Three Amigos.” Denver was vastly improved on offense finishing second in the NFL. QB John Elway won the NFL MVP likely because the other two candidates, Jerry Rice and Joe Montana, divided voters. Elway, though, owed no apologies as he performed masterfully in leading Denver back to the Super Bowl.

In the playoffs, Denver routed Houston in the divisional round. Thus, they would face Cleveland in an AFC championship game rematch. In 1986, the Broncos defeated the Browns because of “The Drive.” In 1987, Denver won again because of “The Fumble.”

Denver got off to a great start in the championship game, but Cleveland fought back. Indeed, the Browns were unstoppable in the second half. Trailing 38-31 with one minute to go, the Browns ran Earnest Byner. He appeared to have a gaping hole. But, unheralded Jeremiah Castille swiped the ball away at the one. Denver was on their way to their third Super Bowl.

2nd Quarter Onslaught

The Broncos got off to a blazing start in the big game. Elway hit Nattiel for a 56-yard TD on their first offensive play. On their second drive, they kicked a field goal. It was 10-0 at the end of one. Then, it happened.

In one of the greatest performances in NFL history, the Redskins outscored Denver 35-0 in the second quarter. They scored 5 touchdowns on 18 plays! Williams hit Ricky Sanders for two long strikes as well as Gary Clark and Clint Didier for touchdowns. The other score came from the least likely of heroes.

Running back Timmy Smith rushed for a total of 1000 yards in his career – regular and postseason combined. But, 200 of those yards came in Super Bowl XXII! He scored twice in the Super Bowl and his record 204 yards rushing stands to this day.

Joe Gibbs called the all the right shots in this Super Bowl and has got to be considered one of the greatest Head Coaches in the history of the sport. Broncos’ head man Dan Reeves was no slouch in his time either. Both guys would get back to the Super Bowl. Gibbs won Super Bowl XXVI and Reeves lost Super Bowl XXIV with Denver and XXXIII with Atlanta.

So, tomorrow we’ll look at a much more competitive game between the Bengals and 49ers!

Brandon Fazzolari is a Super Bowl expert…@spot_Bills

2018 NFL Playoffs: NFC Preview

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The NFC is up for grabs going into Wild Card weekend. All six playoff teams are separated by only three games in the win column going into Saturday’s action. It is hard to predict which NFC team will find themselves present at Super Bowl 52. Competition will be tight with so much parity in the conference this season and injuries to top players such as Philadelphia QB Carson Wentz. Every team has qualities that can land them in Minnesota on February 4th and we’re discussing them all.

Philadelphia Eagles (13-3)

After going 11-2 through their first 13 games the Eagles lost their starting QB, and MVP hopeful, Carson Wentz. Back-up Nick Foles managed to keep Philadelphia on top of the NFC in their final three games. To continue their success they will need to take what is the most balanced team in the NFL and excel in specific areas. Foles will need to make throws. It seems obvious, but with a top-three run game by yardage, Foles will have chances to make big plays. If he can connect on a few of them they will have a chance to beat defenses such as Minnesota. On the other side of the ball they will need to produce turnovers to give Foles more opportunities to be good. The hope is that won’t be an issue as Philly has 19 interceptions on the season, good for fourth best in the league.

Everything seems to be looking up for the future of the Eagles. You don’t hear that everyday when discussing Philadelphia sports. They acquired the excuse for failure this postseason when Wentz went down, so they should be playing care-free. Wentz will look to continue the beginning of a promising career when he returns next fall regardless of this year’s results.

Minnesota Vikings (13-3)

There are two certainties in Minnesota this Winter. One is snow. The other is a suffocating defense. Assuming Minnesota keeps up their play on their number one defense, the questions remain with the offense. QB Case Keenum has had a career season in the absence of Teddy Bridgewater and Sam Bradford. It has yet to be proven if he can perform in the playoffs with his newly found success. The true key to Minnesota’s playoff success is special teams. Close games are often decided by single digits and field goals. Kicker Kai Forbath has will need to be money. He has been inconsistent all year missing two kicks inside 40 yards and five PAT’s. If Forbath kicks well, then Minnesota should find themselves on the right side of close games.

Minnesota should be considered a favorite to make the Super Bowl. Their effective and young defense should have fans excited for the future. But there is a QB controversy to be addressed in the offseason and Keenum’s playoff performance could hold weight moving forward. Look for him to sink or swim these playoffs.

Los Angeles Rams (11-5)

The Rams are the most exciting team to enter the playoffs this season. They hold the league’s number one scoring offense and third best point differential. The 2017 Rams are the first team in NFL history to go from worst to first in league offense in only a year. The key to the Rams’ success has been, and will remain, their offensive line. They have been exceptional all year and if they continue to succeed so will Goff and Gurley. First-year coach Sean McVay will be able to dig into his bag of tricks for his high-flying offense if the O-line gives him the space. Gurley will be an MVP finalist this season and he will give any defense trouble this postseason. Don’t be surprised if McVay and company are in Minnesota come February 4th if their O-line holds strong.

There is little conflict or controversy in the foreseeable future for the Rams. They have improved immensely from last season. Whether the Rams find themselves in the Super Bowl or as a one-and-done This year has set the building blocks for the next great show to hit Los Angeles. The greatest show on turf should be excited for the future. Yet in the present the Rams are a threat to make the Super Bowl this year. That will remain the case if this cast stays together in the future.

New Orleans Saints

New Orleans’ playoff success relies on one man, Drew Brees. They aren’t here without him and it never hurts to have a future hall of famer on your team. Brees’ new favorite target, rookie Alvin Kamara, will surely play a huge role in the success of the Saints this Winter. With 13 total touch downs Kamara is a true red zone threat. Brees has always spread the ball throughout his career. This will not change in the playoffs even though Kamara has been amazing. Brees will have to score when he has the chance for the Saints to make the Super Bowl. New Orleans’ ability to score fast can be a curse and a blessing. Brees will need to manage the clock whenever possible to give his defense rest throughout the playoffs.

This is a very important playoff push for the Saints. ‘Who Dat’ nation is not foreign to the Super Bowl as it is often held there and Brees has one of his own. However, they also know the Saints can be inconsistent year to year and with Brees aging, there’s no telling how many more successful years he has left. It is important for them maximize this opportunity to get back to the big game this season.

Carolina Panthers (11-5)

Cam Newton will need to be a leader if Carolina wants to succeed in the playoffs. I’m not referring to his questionable sense of fashion or troubles with the media. I’m specifically talking about on-field leadership. His mood and performance on the field fuels the offense and when Newton is rattled, so is the rest of the team. That means Newton needs to keep and even-keel composure throughout the playoffs and not be afraid to use assets such as rookie running back Christian McCaffery. Furthermore, if Ron Rivera and the coaching staff can appropriately manage the play calling and player usage then Carolina can make a run.

Coming off a difficult 2016 season Ron Rivera’s seat immediately warmed up entering this year. Making the playoffs gives Rivera a sigh of relief, but not certainty. A playoff run is imperative to Rivera’s future job security as it concerns the Panthers. The Panthers unfortunately are weak compared to their NFC competition and is likely to fold prior to the conference championship.

Atlanta Falcons (10-6)

Atlanta has been a totally different team despite bringing back most of their roster from last year. The Super Bowl loss hangover has seemed to take its toll on the Falcons this year. They have the talent to make a legitimate run this postseason. That talent just needs to step up. Matt Ryan has had a lack-luster season coming off an MVP performance in 2016. Most important to Atlanta’s success will be their role players on offense. Atlanta is most successful when players such as Sanu are able to play a big role in the offense. Look for him to have a big postseason if the Falcons advance.

Despite their low seed Atlanta has high playoff expectations. They are the most experienced NFC roster following their success last year and should use that to their advantage. This year’s outcome shouldn’t change Atlanta’s future plans. They will most likely continue with their core and be back in the playoff discussion next season.

Sources

Featured photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images
Nick Foles photo via phillymag.com
Todd Gurley photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images
Stats by pro-football-reference.com

2018 NFL Playoffs: AFC Preview

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When the NFL playoffs kick off on January 6th each team will battle to book a ticket to Super Bowl 52. Although everyone has the same goal in mind, not every team is created equally. Let’s take a look at the AFC playoff team’s keys to success and realistic expectations in this year’s playoffs.

New England Patriots (13-3)

Bill Belichick and Tom Brady once again sit atop the AFC ensuring all roads go through New England. Health has proved to be a big issue for the Patriots, especially in their linebacking core. New England has become prone to giving up big chunks of yards on outside runs going back to their bye week. Since the bye week, the Pats have only held one playoff team to under 100 yards rushing. That was in Week 16, a contest that saw LeSean McCoy leave with an injury. If the Patriots can limit the run and keep Brady and the offense on the field then they will continue their historic dominance. Brady must also limit interceptions. It’s fair to say Brady’s short-comings towards the end of the year were over stated, but he’ll need to make better decisions in the playoffs. If the Patriots play perfect football there isn’t a team in the league that can dethrone them. If New England can avoid beating themselves then they should find themselves in Minnesota come February.

New England should be considered the team to beat for this year’s Super Bowl. However, without a succession plan for Brady in place and his play diminishing over the last half of the season, the Patriots may soon be in limbo. Every Super Bowl may be Brady’s last at this point so they must take advantage of the lack of talent in the AFC now while they remain the top dog.

Pittsburgh Steelers (13-3)

In Week 15, Pittsburgh showcased two realities. One in which they could temper the Patriots offense and cause issues with man coverage. The other is that even with their best effort they still find themselves playing little brother to Bill and Brady. Before they face off against New England again, barring a Patriots meltdown, Pittsburgh will need to be healthy.

To all my teammates i am doing my best to get back and join the group I miss you guys @steelers travel like the world champions you are today ! Happy Holidays see ya soon 1-0 this week ! #callgod #Firststepin7days #Boomin @moveu_official pic.twitter.com/nnc2YbI0Lf

— AB (@AB84) December 24, 2017

With Antonio Brown injured, the Steelers’ receiving core looks pretty pedestrian. If Brown is healthy then the Killer B’s have the capability of going to Big Ben’s third Super Bowl. If they find themselves there and get healthy, they have the offense to keep up with anyone in the NFL. Their biggest question will remain whether their defense can make a big stop.

With Ben Roethlisberger’s health deteriorating every year, it is unclear when he will call it quits. When the day comes, a new regime will take over in Pittsburgh and their may be tough times. Roethlisberger and Mike Tomlin will surely look to get the monkey off their back that is the Patriots prior to their departure. This may be the best year to do so with an exposed New England defense and injuries on both sides of the ball. Pittsburgh fans should accept nothing less than a conference championship game after this regular season.

Jacksonville Jaguars (10-6)

If the Jaguars want to succeed this post-season they will need to do so behind their ferocious defensive front. The Jaguars house four pro-bowlers on their roster, all of which can be found on defense. If DE Calais Campbell and DT Malik Johnson can continue to terrorize opposing quarterbacks it’s possible the Jaguars can make some noise out of the three seed. Bortles will also need to limit mistakes in the opportunities his defense gives him. The fewer interceptions Bortles produces, the higher the likelihood Jaguars make it to the Super Bowl.

A team like Jacksonville carries a disappointing stigma for being a mediocre organization. Winning a playoff game or two would set a standard for the future of the Jaguars. With such a young roster, the Jags will gain experience regardless of their final outcome. In Jacksonville’s first playoff appearance in 10 years, expectations are low. But with their talent the team has a chance to make great strides going forward.

Kansas City Chiefs (10-6)

Kansas City has all the talent necessary to reach the Super Bowl. It is a similar roster to the one that won their division last year. Similarly to last year, the Chief’s success will rely on a few individual performances. Alex Smith will need to be as efficient as he was when defeating New England all the way back in week one. Beyond that, Travis Kelce will need to be a force in the red zone and avoid personal fouls. And finally, Andy Reid must defeat that dreaded game clock that has bested him so often in the past.

This is an important off-season for the Chiefs. Andy Reid’s team has been inconsistent at best in recent years. He may soon find himself on the chopping block if the Chiefs once again go one-and-done these playoffs. Expect them to get to New England, but don’t expect them leave with a win.

Tennessee Titans (9-7)

Tennessee has been unable to score 25-plus points since the month of September. If that stat didn’t kill the Titan’s playoff hopes in the regular season, then recent news certainly has. DeMarco Murray will likely be inactive for their Wild Card game on Saturday. The saying ‘any given Sunday’ is not foreign to me. I know its unfair to rule out a team before they even play. Tennessee would need to play out of their mind to win. With an average defense and Marcus Mariota’s 13-15 TD-INT ratio, Derrick Henry will need to be uber-effective in Murray’s absence. Mariota will also have to be better than he has been all season if they want to win a game.

The big news circulating Tennessee is Mike Mularkey’s future with the team. Should they win Saturday, Mularkey will certainly return for another year. If they do fall to Kansas City, though, it is reported that Mularkey’s job will be in jeopardy. In the case of a loss, potential head coaching candidates will likely determine Mularkey’s future.

Buffalo Bills (9-7)

Game by game.
Minute by minute.
We know last night was gut wrenching.
Now you get to watch it knowing your Bills end up in the playoffs.#GoBills pic.twitter.com/x3o8scVgcP

— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) January 1, 2018

After 17 long, cold, unforgiving seasons Buffalo faithful finally returns to the postseason. If they want this magical season to continue they will need some help. Most importantly, RB LeSean McCoy will need to be healthy. Tyrod Taylor has proven to be a capable game manager, but his abilities lack those of a great quarterback. Buffalo’s defensive front will need to get to the quarterback and force Bortles to make mistakes if they want to make it out of wild card weekend. If the Bills can pressure quarterbacks during the playoffs they can succeed. Even if Taylor plays his best football, it all boils down to McCoy in the end. The only way Buffalo takes down he Jaguars will be if Shady is at his best.

By making the playoffs, Buffalo may already consider this season a success. This may have secured head coach Sean McDermott’s job for another year, but the Bills have a long way to go. The Bills will be able to use any experience and success they get from this unlikely playoff run in the future. For now Buffalo should just enjoy the moment and hope for miracles to happen.

Sources

Featured picture by Associated Press/Times Free Press
Statistics by pro-football-reference.com

Robert Kraft Only Thinking About the Present?

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Robert Kraft Stepped In

Robert Kraft stepped in and traded Jimmy Garoppolo this season. Going into 2018 Garoppolo is now 7-0 as a starter in the NFL. In the five games with the 49ers Garoppolo passed for 1,560 yards with seven touchdowns. Garoppolo has proven that he is a legit NFL quarterback in the NFL. Meanwhile in New England the Patriots have 40-year-old Tom Brady, who really has not been playing well. He threw an interception against the Steelers for the first time since 2005. It’s clear Bob Kraft wanted to move on from Garoppolo and keep Brady who is bigger than the team. Brady is the franchise and so is Belichick, but did Kraft hurt the future of the franchise?

A Look into the Future

Let’s fast forward five years from now. Will Garoppolo be a Patriot again? Or will the 49ers still have a stud franchise quarterback? Will the Patriots be back at 6-10? Or will the Patriots draft a good quarterback and groom him to be the next guy? There are so many questions. Whether or not Belichick now has to draft a quarterback despite having a perfect heir in Garoppolo.

Garoppolo Is a Legit NFL Quarterback

The audio of Garoppolo calmly leading his team to a comeback win a few weeks ago was scary good. He sounded like Brady, as he took what he learned in Foxborough and took it with him to the 49ers. John Lynch wrote on the team’s website:

“We want Jimmy to be a Niner for a long time. That process is going to take place here. We’re eager to get that done, to have the opportunity. But, I think one thing that we really believe is that those things should take place between us and his representatives and not occur and transpire in the public. That’s the way we’re going to treat that. You have our assurances, and the fans do, that we’d like nothing more than to make him a Niner for a long, long time.”

We’ll see what happens, but it’s clear Belichick wanted to keep Garoppolo. However nobody was going to let him trade away the greatest quarterback of all time.