Showing posts with label Pittsburgh Steelers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pittsburgh Steelers. Show all posts

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Predictions Super Bowl XLIII

Each week, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend’s games. I will prognosticate on all the playoff games each week. Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling. That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!


Pittsburgh vs. Arizona: This should be an amazing Super Bowl…aren’t they all? Even the blowouts are fun…because it’s the biggest game of the year! These two teams know each other fairly well. The coaching staff of the Cardinals is littered with Pittsburgh connections. Some say that this should give the Cardinals the advantage…and I agree. The Steelers may have the No. 1 defense in the league, but that won’t make a difference to Kurt Warner and the Cards. Look for a high scoring affair in this contest. Boldin should have a great game, with everyone keying on Fitzgerald. He may even give Warner a run for MVP honors. Pittsburgh will keep it close until the 3rd quarter, but then the Cards will fly to victory and bring the Lombardi Trophy to the desert. Arizona 41, Pittsburgh 27.


Short Shots:

To my loyal readers: sorry for the long lay-off since my last post. Stay tuned for coverage of the combine and free-agency…followed by draft coverage…

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Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Chokers

This past Sunday, the Cowboys had a 10-point lead against the Pittsburgh Steelers, late in the 4th quarter. Then disaster struck, as the Cowboys were not able to finish off the Steelers. All the Cowboys needed were a couple of first downs and the game would be over. Nope…didn’t happen! The Cowboys let the Steelers tie the game with about 2 minutes left in regulation. Then, Romo gave the entire Steeler Nation an early Christmas present by throwing a pick-6…game over!

The Cowboys are now 8-5, and they are hanging by a thread to the 6th (and final) play-ff spot in the NFC. If the ‘Boys were to win the rest of their games, they would be assured of making the tournament. That’s not an easy task, as the Cowboys have faltered in December the past few years. They must right the ship if they want to be playing in January.

The Cowboys out-gained the Steelers in rushing yards, passing yards, and in total yards. They also had the edge in time of possession. The ‘Boys also had 5 sacks compared to the Steelers 3. The Cowboys lost the most important statistic…the turnovers. The Cowboys had 5 turnovers (the Steelers had 2), and the last one sealed their fate. Deshea Townsend picked off an errant Romo pass to Witten, and returned it for the winning TD!

Last week, I wrote that this game would tell us everything we need to know about the 2008 Dallas Cowboys…What They Are. The Cowboys have under-achieved this year, as they were the preseason favorites to win the Super Bowl. Now, they are battling just to make the playoffs. Maybe, everyone just overrated the Cowboys from the beginning? Maybe, they’re just not good enough? Maybe, they’re just…chokers?



Short Shots:

On a positive note, Tashard Choice of the Cowboys proved to be a capable RB. Choice gained 88 yards rushing (the most allowed by the #1 Steelers defense all season) and another 78 yards receiving on 5 receptions. Not too bad for a rookie RB drafted in the 4th round, in his first NFL start!

Matt Jones (Jaguars) will finally serve his 3-game suspension that was handed out several months ago. Jones had appealed the suspension, but now he will miss the last 3 games of the season!


From The Mail Room:

Frank G., Philadelphia, PA: Your cowgirls are cooked. E-A-G-L-E-S Eagles!

Utopia1dc: Frank, I don’t know if the Cowboys are quite cooked just yet…maybe simmering a little? I applaud your enthusiasm for your Eagles chant, but aren’t they currently trailing the Cowboys?



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Saturday, December 6, 2008

Predictions Week 14

Each week, on Friday, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend’s games. I will always prognosticate on the Eagles and Cowboys games and then pick two more games of interest (to me, that is, not necessarily to you). Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling. That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!

The crystal ball was on fire last week, going 4-0 for the week. Not too shabby, huh? The crystal ball is now 23-20-1, which is 3 games over .500 (.534 to be exact). Well, enough of the horn tooting…let’s get down to the task at hand. This week is going to be tough because there are a lot of games with play-off implications. The crystal ball is ready for the challenge. Let’s take a peek into the future and see what will happen this Sunday.

Last Week: 4-0

Overall: 23-20-1

Dallas @ Pittsburgh: The Cowboys will travel to Pittsburgh short-handed this week. Marion Barber was left behind to heal his toe, as he did not make the trip to the Steel City. The Steelers are sporting the No. 1 defense in the league, so Romo will have his work cut out for him. Not having Barber may be a blessing in disguise, as it will force the ‘Boys to come out with all their guns blazing. Pittsburgh will pound the rock, as they will try to dominate the line of scrimmage. The ‘Boys will find a way to win, because they must! Dallas 24, Pittsburgh 23.

Philadelphia @ New York Giants: The Birds are in a do or die situation, as they don’t have any room for error. The Eagles find themselves on the proverbial play-off bubble, and that’s being kind. The Birds must win out, and hope for some help to make the tournament. Now that McNabb is back on track, he will keep the offense at full speed ahead. The G-Men are due for a letdown, especially with all the Plaxico Burress distractions this past week. The Eagles will stun their division foes. Philadelphia 31, New York Giants 17.

Minnesota @ Detroit: The Vikings caught a break, as a Judge has given the Williams Brothers a stay of execution. Well, they’re not actually brothers, and they’re not getting executed either. They will be active Sunday, after that…who knows? The Lions are due for a win, as they can’t actually go 0-16…can they? Well, their losing streak will continue, as the Vikings will manhandle them, easily! Minnesota 27, Detroit 9.

New York Jets @ San Francisco: The Jets are reeling from their loss last week against the Broncos. Favre and company will be ready for the 49ers. Look for Thomas Jones to have huge game against a lackluster 49ers defense. Favre will pick apart the secondary as well. The Jets will win in a laugher. This will be a blowout from the get-go. New York Jets 34, San Francisco 13.


Short Shots:


I can’t believe a Judge has actually intervened and blocked the suspension of several players. Sheriff Goodell waited too long to make a decision, and now these players will be able to play when they should be punished…unreal! Where was this Judge when Pacman Jones was suspended?

The San Diego Chargers played well on Thursday night against the Raiders. I think it might be too little, too late for a play-off push. However, they may be able to save Norv his job…if they can win out!



From The Mail Room:


Joe P., Edison, NJ: The barbarian is out for the game versus Pittsburgh. Do you think your Cowboys have a chance?

Utopia1dc: Joe, the loss of Marion Barber will hurt the Cowboys for sure. Tashard Choice will take his place in the line-up, but he is a relative unknown. The ‘Boys will have to rely on Romo and the passing game a little more than they might have if Barber were available. But, I think that this will actually be a good thing…let Romo sling it and hope for the best. Go Cowboys!



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Thursday, December 4, 2008

Reality Mail Bag - 12/04/08

Each week I will answer questions submitted by my loyal readers. I personally read every single email I receive. I will pick out the best five or so to use for the weekly post, as I won't be able to answer all of them. I will also answer one or two questions on my daily posts as well. Now it’s time to open the mail!


Eric F., Philadelphia, PA: What do you think of Kyle Eckel? Have the eagles finally found a true fullback?

Utopia1dc: Eric, Kyle Eckel is a hometown product out of Haverford. He attended Episcopal Academy in Philadelphia, and then went on to star at Navy. He was named MVP of the Army-Navy game two years in a row. He is 4th all-time in rushing at Navy, so he knows how to carry the rock. He is a good blocker as well. What’s not to like? The Eagles would be wise to give him a shot at being their starting fullback…everyone knows they could use one!


James S., San Diego, CA: Norv Turner is the worst coach ever and he has destroyed a great team. Bring back Marty ball!

Utopia1dc: James, I don’t know about Turner being the worst coach ever, but the Chargers have struggled this year, especially defensively. LT doesn’t seem to be running with the same vigor as in previous years either. I was shocked when Marty was fired 2 years ago, but that’s the way it is in the NFL. The Chargers really don’t have a prayer to make the play-offs, even if they win out the rest of their games. Norv will probably be fired after the season…but be careful of what you wish for!


Marc P., Fort Washington, PA: Do the Eagles have any chance in hell to beat the Giants this week?

Utopia1dc: Marc, the Eagles played very well last week, and the Giants may be due for a letdown game. The G-men have had a lot of distractions this week with the Plaixo Burress situation. If the Eagles have any desire of making the play-offs, they must win this game. The G-Men have pretty much locked up the division, so I wouldn’t be surprised if the Birds got the win!


Richard P., Wheeling, WV: Out here in Pittsburgh country we will destroy your cowgirls.

Utopia1dc: Richard, I take it you’re a Steelers fan. Well, your Steelers have been playing very well. They have a balanced attack on offense and a stellar defense to boot. It will be a tough game for the ‘Boys. I don’t think the Steelers will destroy the Cowboys…it should be a close game. We shall see what happens!


Harry S., Ada, Oklahoma: What do you think about McNabb using the excuse about being preoccupied about his wifes pregnancy as his reason for his poor play the past few weeks?

Utopia1dc: Harry, I don’t know where you’re getting your information from, but I heard that interview live, and that’s not what I came away with. McNabb was asked a question, and he answered it. He wasn’t making excuses for his poor play. If that were the case why did he play so well on Turkey Day? I’m sure his wife expecting twins was on his mind, but it had nothing to do with his play on the field. I know that D-Mac has done and said many stupid things…this is not one of them!



Short Shots:


A Judge ruled in favor of Kevin and Pat Williams (Vikings) lawsuit against the NFL. He issued a temporary restraining order, blocking their 4-game suspensions imposed by Sheriff Goodell. This is a very bad precedent being set here. The NFL and the Vikings cannot let these guys play this weekend!


With four weeks left in the regular season, it’s going to go down to the wire for the last few play-off spots. In the AFC, there are 5 teams vying for 2 spots. In the NFC, there are 7 teams vying for 2 spots. It’s time to put up or shut up!



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Wednesday, December 3, 2008

What They Are

The Cowboys find themselves in the middle of the herd for the play-off race. They have won three straight games, and four out of their last five. The ‘Boys stand at 8-4, which is a decent record. This year, if the season ended today, the Dallas Cowboys would be watching on TV…like you and me. The Cowboys trail the Giants by three games, with four to play. The division is out of reach. The ‘Boys must travel via the wildcard route.

The Cowboys actually have a better record than two of the division leaders. The Vikings and Cardinals are both 7-5, but they would be in the tournament, and the ‘Boys would be out! I don’t think that it’s fair, but that’s the rules…and you can’t argue the rules! They are what they are!

Being a wildcard isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The G-Men (last season) and the Steelers (three seasons ago), where both wildcards, and they both advanced to and won the Super Bowl. It’s not an easy task, as you must win on the road in the play-offs!

The Cowboys face the Steelers this Sunday. Pittsburgh is 9-3, and in first place in their division by one game over the Ravens. The ‘Boys must travel to the Steel City, and face the No. 1 defense in the league, and come home with a win. That’s not an easy task for any team, but if the Cowboys want to be considered serious Super Bowl contenders…than that’s what they must do!

Bill Parcells would often tell us to wait until after Thanksgiving to evaluate the team. I recall him saying, “You are what you are” many times. Well, it’s a week past Turkey Day, and the ‘Boys will face a formidable Pittsburgh Steelers team on the road. Come Sunday, we will all know…what they are!


Short Shots:


Sheriff Goodell was a busy man, as he finally dished out the 4-game suspensions to the players who were caught taking the “water” pills…it's about time! Those players are filing a suit in court for an injunction on the Sheriff’s ruling…good luck on that one!

Plaxico Burress was fined, suspended (without pay) for the remainder of the season (including the play-offs), and put on the non-football injury list by the Giants. His days as a member of the New York Giants is numbered…and that’s the least of his worries!


From The Mail Room:


Kyle P., Willow Grove, PA: Pacman is back on the team will he be a factor?

Utopia1dc: Adam Jones is now officially back as a member of the Cowboys. To make room for Pacman, the Cowboys placed Pat Watkins on IR. Jones will contribute mainly on punt returns. He will also play on the defensive sub-packages when the ‘Boys go into the nickel and dime. I wouldn’t expect a lot from him, as he has been away from “live” action for some time now!



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Saturday, November 1, 2008

Predictions Week 9

Each week, on Friday, I will look into my (never wrong, just misinformed) crystal ball and give my predictions for that weekend games. I will always prognosticate on the Eagles and Cowboys games and then pick two more games of interest (to me, that is, not necessarily to you). Keep in mind, that this is for entertainment purposes only, and that I do not endorse any sort of legal or illegal gambling. That being said…let’s see what’s in my crystal ball!

Last week the newly acquired crystal ball went 3-1…not bad for its debut! I am now just 4 games under .500, but filled with confidence as we move forward. I am hoping for many more winning weeks down the road as this new crystal ball gains more experience. It’s calling me…so let’s see what it has to say:

Last Week: 3-1

Overall: 10-14

Dallas @ New York Giants: The Cowboys are coming off a huge win against the Bucs and the G-Men are riding high after their big win against the Steelers. The Cowboys are riddled with injuries and may be without Jason Witten (ribs) as he is a game-time decision. The G-Men will use play-action pass plays early and often to test the depleted and inexperienced secondary of the ‘Boys. Then, the G-Men will pound the rock with Jacobs to close out the game. The Brad “noodle arm” Johnson led Cowboys don’t stand a chance in this one…I hope the crystal ball is wrong! New York Giants 34, Dallas 13.

Philadelphia @ Seattle: The Birds are flapping their wings with confidence, as Westbrook is once again healthy. Look For D-Mac to have a field day passing to rookie sensation DeSean “fraction” Jackson. Westbrook will be a major contributor as well. The Seahawks only chance is to ride the back of Julius Jones, but that’s not going to be enough as Seneca Wallace will show why he should be holding a clipboard and not masquerading as an NFL QB! Philadelphia 27, Seattle 17.

New England @ Indianapolis: The Colts are on play-off life support…can they get off the respirator? Yes! The Peyton Manning led Colts will be in full force this Sunday night in primetime. Being at home will lift the spirits of an unemotional, uninspired team thus far. The Pats have been getting by without Brady, but look for Matt Cassel to come back down to Earth and throw a pick-6 in desperation late in the game. Indianapolis 31, New England 17.

Tampa Bay @ Kansas City: Jon Gruden, and his many “chucky” faces, is still fuming over last weeks’ loss to the Cowboys. Look for Garcia to bounce back and have a great game against the lifeless Chiefs. Herm Edwards’ job is on the line, but the Larry Johnson-less Chiefs are no match for the Bucs. This game will be over by halftime, so make sure you have plenty of snacks for the second half. Tampa Bay 34, Kansas City 13.


Short Shots:


Larry Johnson of the Kansas City Chiefs will be deactivated for the 3rd week in a row. Sheriff Goodell has also officially suspended him for one game, which will be served week 10. LJ…consider it a blessing that the Sheriff showed leniency towards you…it’s time to get your life in order!

Rumor has it that the Cowboys will use Brooks Bollinger in some situations against the G-Men. Also look for Patrick Crayton to be the wingback in the "wildcat" formation…just a hunch! They might as well try anything and everything as the G-Men are too much for the injury plagued Cowboys!

Peyton Manning…enough already! Just beat the Pat-cheat-iots!

The Phillies Parade was a blast…let’s just hope it doesn’t take another 28 years for another one!

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Week 8 Review

The newly acquired crystal ball went 3-1 in its debut week, which leaves me 4 games under .500…we’re getting there! That’s an impressive start for a young and naïve crystal ball. It performed well in its new role…many people are relying on it…that’s a lot of pressure! It clearly has better prognosticating skills than its predecessor. Maybe the new mahogany base it sits on, gave it a sense of prestige. Well, for whatever reason…I’ll take it! Now let’s review what happened this past week:

Last Week: 3-1

Overall: 10-14

Tampa Bay @ Dallas: The Cowboys needed this game in a big way, especially since the rest of the NFC East teams won as well. The Cowboys defense came to play with a more hands on approach by Wade Phillips…maybe he really is a Mr. Fix-it (read more here)? It wasn’t pretty…ugly…you might say! Brad Johnson was awful…but they got the job done (read more here). Next weeks showdown with the G-Men is huge…we shall see!

Atlanta @ Philadelphia: The Falcons tried to make a game of it late but they were no match for the high-powered offense of the Eagles. The Birds were helped out late in the game when the officials blew a game-changing call. The Falcons were out of time-outs and couldn’t challenge the play. With the return of Westbrook, the offense was once again running on all cylinders. This teams dynamics change considerably when Westbrook is healthy. At 4-3, they are still a team to be reckoned with in the second half of the season!

New York Giants @ Pittsburgh: The Steelers out-played the G-men for most of the game. They had the lead, but then…Big Ben got picked and the game changed course. The Giants took advantage of the situation and stole this game on the road from the Steelers! Even though the Steelers lost, their defense showed how dominant it could be by stuffing Jacobs at the goal line on several occasions! The G-Men have a big one coming up against the Cowboys…stay tuned!

Buffalo @ Miami: With the Dolphins poaching half of the Cowboys staff and roster, Parcells and company has something good going on in South Florida! Ted Ginn decided to start living up to his high draft status by exploding with 7 receptions and 175 yards. Chad Pennington showed, that even though he doesn’t have a cannon, he could still manage a game. He threw for 314 yards and a TD…but most importantly…no picks!


Short Shots:

The World Series is on ice…well…rain, that is! Game 5 was called in the 6th Inning with the score tied at 2. The Philadelphia fans, as well as the Phillies, have been waiting since 1983 for a championship…now they will need for “mother nature” to cooperate! I guess a retractable roof would have been nice? Patience…my child…patience!

The Cowboys won despite Brad Johnson’s “noodle arm”. Can they hold down the fort for another week while many of their stars heal? The Cowboys face the division leading G-Men this week…a win would go a long way to achieving their goals (read more here).

Larry Johnson is to meet with Sheriff Goodell today for his many infractions…Good luck! He may need to wear those diapers that Dick Vermeil told him to take off a few years back!

What is going on with the Colts? Their offense is out of sync and the defense isn’t fairing much better. Peyton and company need to step it up or their "goose" may be cooked before Thanksgiving!

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Mr. Fix-it

When Bill Parcells resigned as the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, Jerry Jones did an extensive search to find his replacement. It was believed, at the time, that Norv Turner was the front-runner. The new head coach was going to inherit Jason Garrett, as Mr. Jones had already hired Garrett as the OC. In the end, Jones decided on Wade Phillips. The reasoning was that the Cowboys defense needed a proven “3-4 guy” to take what Parcells started to the next level.

Last year, Wade Phillips referred to himself as a “Mr. Fix-it” when it comes to the 3-4 defenses. He referred to his defense as the “Phillips 3-4”…which his father, Bum Phillips, created. Wade has all the credentials needed as a DC…everywhere he has been the DC, the defense has flourished! Wade also had previous head coaching experience as well. Phillips is a happy-go-lucky kind of guy…just the right guy to lead the ‘Boys after “Dictator Parcells” departed. Jerry had found his man!

Some people say that Jones hired Phillips to be a puppet…hogwash! Wade Phillips has been a coach for a long time. To be the HC of the Dallas Cowboys is his dream job. He has Texas roots and a Cowboy at heart. Don’t let his “awe shucks” demeanor fool you…he is well qualified for the job. He can be stern with his players if need be, but he prefers to treat them as adults and professionals. He believes that the team is a family…and family sticks together through thick and thin.

The Cowboys have spent a boatload of money on the defensive side of the ball. There are many high draft picks on defense as well. Defense is Wade’s specialty…so why is the defense getting shredded like mozzarella cheese? With several injuries and a suspension, the ‘Boys defense is a little thin in the secondary…but that’s no excuse! Although Jerry won’t fire Phillips in mid-season (that’s not Jerry’s style), he is on the hot seat. This was supposed to be a Super Bowl season for the Cowboys…now; they are hanging on by a thread! If Wade wants to be around to see next season as the Cowboys head coach…he better come through on being…Mr. Fix-it!


Short Shots:


Rumor has it that Mike Holmgren will be the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers next season. The 49ers should stay clear, as Holmgren hasn’t delivered on his promise of a Super Bowl in Seattle!

There is talk (and the NFL is currently looking into it) that the Ravens had a bounty out on Rashard Mendenhall and Hines Ward of the Steelers. What’s wrong with that? Doesn’t anybody remember the Bounty Bowls?

Larry Johnson is in trouble again. Apparently, Johnson has been accused of spitting alcohol at a woman during the Kansas City’s bye week at a nightclub. Attention…attention…paging…Sheriff Goodell!

“Pinkie Gate” continues in Big D. Will Romo play…will he be the back-up…will he be inactive on game day, when will he be ready? If Romo was anything like his childhood idol (Brett Favre), the answer would be…he’s ready and will be starting this coming Sunday!

Tom Brady apparently has had several “clean-up” surgeries (for infections) following his ACL surgery. If the infections can’t be eliminated, he may need to have his knee re-repaired and that could potentially put next season in jeopardy for Brady. I guess the football gods do have a way of evening things out? Remember…cheaters never prosper (not for long anyway)!

Kellen Winslow II has appealed his suspension. Hopefully the NFL will see that Mr. Winslow isn’t just a “piece of meat” and lift his suspension!

The Philadelphia Phillies won Game 1 of the World Series…way to go Phils! Got Parade?

Monday, September 29, 2008

Week 4 Review

Once again, my crystal ball failed me. I don’t understand what happened…I shined it up last week. I even purchased a stand for it…so now it sits on top of the mantel. I’ve treated it with the utmost respect. For who? For what? (Yes…that was a shot at Ricky Watters!) Once again, I was one up and three down last week…not good…awful…embarrassing even! I have to do something different for next week…maybe I will punish it…have it stand in the corner…or give it a time-out! Something has to give…and I’m not backing down! Let’s take a closer look and see what went wrong:

Last Week: 1-3

Overall: 2-6

Washington @ Dallas: This was a shock to me. I did not see this as a close game at all. I expected the Cowboys to take over at any given moment and put the ‘Skins away. Not only did they not put the visitors away, but they were beaten at their own game…Portis abused the Cowboys all day long. In the end, Dallas made it close. If they would have recovered the onside kick…who knows? But ifs don’t cut it. They got beat. The NFC East is going to be a bear this year.

Philadelphia @ Chicago: Wow…Chicago and Kyle Ortin get a win against the Eagles? Are you kidding me? Now the Eagles were without Westbrook, but still, the Eagles should have won. Woulda, coulda, shouda…but they didn’t…they could not finish! They had their chance to punch it in, but could not seize the opportunity.

San Diego @ Oakland: After a slow start, San Diego is back to even. Nothing surprising here…they beat the Raiders. They should be able to beat Oakland…they are awful, pathetic! Al Davis spent a lot of money during free agency, traded for DeAngelo Hall, and drafted Darren McFadden…all for nothing! This team has a dark cloud over it…Al Davis!

Cleveland @ Cincinnati: The “Ohio Bowl” goes to Cleveland. I don’t know if there is an actual trophy or not, but let’s give it up for the Browns! Well…let’s not, Cincy stinks, and someone had to win…right?


Short Shots:

Rumor has it that Al Davis might be interested in Matt Millen…there’s a marriage made in heaven!

I usually don’t talk fantasy football, but I have Braylon Edwards and Chad Johnson on my team. Needless to say…I’m in last place!

With four chances inside the 4-yard line (3 chances from the 1), the Eagles failed to score a TD and win the game. The Eagles ran the ball 4 straight times. Why not let McNabb role out with the option to run or pass? The Eagles are not known as a power running team…why would they try to be one against the Bears?

I can’t wait to watch tonight’s game…”Text Gate”…Rashard Mendenhall vs. Bart Scott…Let’s get ready to rumble!

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Bulletin Board Material

The other day, Rashard Mendenhall (Rookie RB for the Pittsburgh Steelers) sent his buddy, Ray Rice (Rookie RB for the Baltimore Ravens) a text message. So why is that football news? Because LB Bart Scott of the Ravens made it so! Mendenhall’s text was only intended for his buddy Ray. It claimed how great of a day Rashard was going to have against the vaunted Raven’s Defense. Ray Rice took it upon himself to let his defense know about the text message…Bart Scoot took offense.

You see, the Steelers play the Ravens on Monday Night Football this week. Bart Scott had this to say about Mendenhall, “He said later that he was just joking, but it’s too late. Thanks for the bulletin-board material, rookie.” Obviously, Bart is beside himself…what was the Rookie to say? Was he to predict he would have an awful day…that he would fumble 3 times…that in his 1st NFL start (Willie P. is down and out for the contest) he would be labeled a bust…that the Steelers wasted a first round pick on him? Of course not! He said in a simple text to his friend that he was going to have a good performance. Should he not be confident in his abilities?

What’s worse about Bart Scott is that he is a wiley veteran player…does he need a Rookie to motivate him? Isn’t getting paid millions of dollars to play a kid’s game enough motivation? Do the Ravens even have a bulletin board? And if so, who is in charge of the posting? Is it a dry erase board, or an old-fashioned corkboard? Could I have that job? Please! Enough! Just play football!

Football is a violent game, played with emotion…the object is to smother the man with the ball in his hands…does Bart Scott not understand that he shouldn’t need bulletin board material for motivation? I expected more professionalism than that from Bart…here’s some motivation…do your job, Vet!