Archive: NFL
Is trash talking good for the NFL?
Is trash talking good for the NFL?
By Reader Poll | January 18, 2011; 01:07 PM ET | Comments (0)
Trash is our bread and butter
If fans watch the NHL for the fights and watch NASCAR for the crashes, they increasingly watch the NFL for trash talking, and the backing up of said trash talking with smash-mouth football.
By Emil Steiner | January 18, 2011; 01:02 PM ET | Comments (0)
Walking the walk
Increased media coverage of the NFL has incited more trash talking than ever - the effects of which could be seen Sunday in New England.
By Dave Goldberg | January 18, 2011; 11:59 AM ET | Comments (0)
Personal for Pats-Jets
The personal nature of an increasingly bitter rivalry makes the Jets-Patriots matchup makes it the most intriguing of weekend.
By Leonard Shapiro | January 11, 2011; 04:27 PM ET | Comments (14)
Real rivalry in Pitt
The Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens play football as it's meant to be played, and their third meeting of the season should be another classic.
By Dave Goldberg | January 11, 2011; 02:40 PM ET | Comments (4)
When will they ever learn?
The NFL still does not know how long a player should sit out after a concussion and the league should continue to research concussions and prevent players from returning to the field too soon.
By Leonard Shapiro | December 22, 2010; 10:02 AM ET | Comments (0)
Using the evidence
New research on the effects of multiple concussions could help force the NFL to mandate longer rest periods to protect their players from absorbing more punishment.
By Dr. Matthew Prowler | December 21, 2010; 07:01 PM ET | Comments (1)
Three strikes and you're out
NFL players who suffer three concussions in one season should without a doubt be shut down for the rest of the year to prevent further injury.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | December 21, 2010; 02:34 PM ET | Comments (0)
Terrible uncertainties
Our best hope is for advances in the research on head trauma that will clarify football's risks -- but in the interim, fans must continue to push concussion awareness and treatment to the forefront of the NFL's consciousness.
By Michael Oriard | December 21, 2010; 12:09 PM ET | Comments (0)
Who's responsible?
Only when every player on the field realizes that concussions are injuries and plays the game that way will we finally see a reduction in these injuries.
By Dr. Mark Adickes | December 21, 2010; 11:29 AM ET | Comments (0)
Can't rush recovery
Bringing players back to NFL action following a concussion must be a careful, deliberate and tempered process. Rushing a player like Austin Collie back too soon could result in permanent brain damage and an early ending to a career.
By Dawn Knight | December 21, 2010; 11:16 AM ET | Comments (0)
It's the helmets!
The technology that has created more protective helmets for NFL players has simultaneously created more powerful, dangerous weapons to damage the heads and health of other players.
By Michael Kun | December 21, 2010; 11:01 AM ET | Comments (0)
The Patriots empire strikes back
In a strange 2010 season, the New England Patriots' return to the top is a rare slice of normalcy.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | December 15, 2010; 01:26 PM ET | Comments (0)
...But there's a "nasty" in "dynasty"
Bill Belichick is the key ingredient to the Patriots' success over the past decade and it's his unwillingness to budge from his coaching and managerial blueprint that has New England atop the NFL once again this year.
By Jason Maloni | December 15, 2010; 01:03 PM ET | Comments (0)
Credit the O-line, running game
While Tom Brady deserves much of the credit, New England's offensive line and running game have helped the 2010 Patriots' offense reach new heights.
By Brandon Benson | December 15, 2010; 10:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
Patriots are peerless
Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots are in a class of their own atop the NFL.
By Michael Kun | December 14, 2010; 02:20 PM ET | Comments (2)
Belichick the mastermind
Bill Belichick remains a step ahead of the rest of the NFL and the 2010 Patriots are proof. The star power is nowhere to be found but the wins keep piling up.
By Anthony Stalter | December 14, 2010; 01:28 PM ET | Comments (6)
George Young's lesson
Bill Belichick learned under former New York Giants general manager George Young that teams win championships as often as stars do.
By Dave Goldberg | December 14, 2010; 12:22 PM ET | Comments (1)
High hopes, blunted expectations
The situations in Dallas and Minnesota both demanded crisis control, which, in this case, resulted in the sacrifice of a head coach to make progress toward a better future.
By Derede McAlpin | November 23, 2010; 10:55 AM ET | Comments (1)
A video game brought to life
Michael Vick is showcasing a freakish set of skills that only seemed possible when you designed your own player in Madden. If he keeps this up, he'll be much more than just a remarkable reclamation project.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | November 17, 2010; 08:23 AM ET | Comments (0)
A whole new Vick
If Michael Vick sustains his level of play and stays healthy, it could create a very interesting NFL MVP discussion at the end of the year.
By Michael Kun | November 17, 2010; 08:14 AM ET | Comments (0)
A knee-jerk reaction
Michael Vick deserves to be mentioned in the NFL MVP conversation, but there are plenty of others also having banner years who have proven their ability to stay healthy and contribute in every game their teams play.
By Matt Loede | November 17, 2010; 08:05 AM ET | Comments (1)
For now, it's Vick
Michael Vick is bound to regress in the second half, but to this point, there's no question he's the NFL's most valuable player. And if he can stay healthy, he could very well earn the title by season's end.
By Anthony Stalter | November 17, 2010; 07:45 AM ET | Comments (1)
No rush to judgment
There's a reason the NFL moved its MVP voting to after the season -- to help ensure the most deserving player earns the award. Michael Vick is firmly in the conversation, but the award is still up in the air.
By Dave Goldberg | November 16, 2010; 03:12 PM ET | Comments (1)
Wade is out but problems remain
Firing Wade Phillips won't solve the problems facing the Dallas Cowboys, but getting a real general manager to replace Jerry Jones just might.
By Robert Littal | November 9, 2010; 02:24 PM ET | Comments (2)
Jerry Jones: Architect of mediocrity, enabler of failure
Jerry Jones' meddlesome ownership style has created a murky leadership ladder in Big D and has directly led to erratic play and unfulfilled potential on the field.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | November 9, 2010; 11:35 AM ET | Comments (0)
When in crisis, watch your blind side
After a 1-7 start, the reeling Dallas Cowboys face the daunting task of big business crisis management.
By Derede McAlpin | November 9, 2010; 11:27 AM ET | Comments (0)
Victims of the hype machine
The Cowboys are a victim of their own marketing and hype machine.
By Peter Schaffer | November 9, 2010; 11:11 AM ET | Comments (3)
Worst season ever
No matter their final record, the Cowboys are in the midst of the worst season in franchise history.
By Edward Valentine | November 9, 2010; 11:01 AM ET | Comments (1)
Succumbing to the hype
The Cowboys believed all the hype they heard coming into the season and forgot they had to win to make that predicted Super Bowl run a reality.
By Michael Kun | November 9, 2010; 10:29 AM ET | Comments (2)
Blame Jerry
The collapse of the Dallas Cowboys falls on the flash-over-substance personnel decisions made year after year by owner and general manager Jerry Jones.
By Dave Goldberg | November 9, 2010; 10:08 AM ET | Comments (0)
Parity reduces disparity
Star quarterbacks and shrewd front office decisions helped the AFC win six out of 10 Super Bowls, but this season's overall parity has reduced the AFC's dominance over the NFC.
By Dawn Knight | November 7, 2010; 05:36 PM ET | Comments (1)
Moss as good as ... silver
Randy Moss has fallen from the top tier of wide receivers in the NFL, and while some team will benefit from him, he'll always give you at least as much trouble off the field as he does production on it.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | November 2, 2010; 11:30 AM ET | Comments (1)
A rolling stone gathers no Moss
Randy Moss demonstrated in Minnesota that his upside was not worth the investment of time or energy into his enigmatic presence on and off the field. Talent provides chances, but with Moss, commitment may be the trump card.
By Peter Schaffer | November 2, 2010; 08:59 AM ET | Comments (7)
The lights are coming on
Some team will take a chance on Randy Moss, but he just isn't what he used to be -- a bitter pill for the Minnesota Vikings to swallow.
By Jason Maloni | November 2, 2010; 08:48 AM ET | Comments (0)
One word: Wow
In just a month, Moss has gone from a potential savior for the Vikings to unemployed wide receiver. How this has happened is absolutely mind-boggling.
By Michael Kun | November 2, 2010; 01:00 AM ET | Comments (3)
A Moss-y mess
Randy Moss wants to play for a winner, but only if he gets paid top dollar. For the malcontent receiver, that combination will continue to be hard to find.
By Anthony Stalter | November 2, 2010; 12:45 AM ET | Comments (0)
A destructive force
As good as he has been at times in his career, Randy Moss continues to be the epitome of a locker room cancer -- a tag that may have teams thinking twice about claiming him off waivers.
By Leonard Shapiro | November 2, 2010; 12:30 AM ET | Comments (0)
Want Randy? He's yours
Dan Snyder and the Washington Redskins could be the perfect landing spot for waived wide receiver Randy Moss.
By Dave Goldberg | November 2, 2010; 12:10 AM ET | Comments (2)
Favre's final chapter
Brad Childress appears to have had it with Brett Favre, meaning "the streak" will end sooner rather than later as the Vikings try to get back on track in the NFC North
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | October 26, 2010; 01:16 PM ET | Comments (1)
Don't give them the satisfaction
Brett Favre should walk away now, for the sake of his rapidly deteriorating legacy and body, and to appease the masses who are sick and tired of his circus.
By Chris Richardson | October 26, 2010; 12:31 PM ET | Comments (0)
Living and dying with Brett
It's time for Brad Childress ignore Brett Favre's ego and give his starting quarterback a few weeks off to recover from injury in the hopes that he can return to form for a playoff push.
By Anthony Stalter | October 26, 2010; 11:54 AM ET | Comments (0)
Expect a start from stubborn ol' Brett
Brett Favre has proven his ability to play through injuries over the course of his career, and until he pulls himself from a game, you have to assume he'll be starting Sunday against New England.
By Brandon Benson | October 26, 2010; 10:12 AM ET | Comments (0)
Better off in Hattiesburg
Brett Favre has tarnished his legacy with three years of erratic play and drama following his first retirement from Green Bay in 2008. He should have stayed true to his word this first time around.
By Dave Goldberg | October 26, 2010; 12:30 AM ET | Comments (0)
Undetectable damage
For every concussion diagnosed, further undetected brain damage is likely done. The NFL must enforce suspensions to discourage head hunting and the use of helmets as weapons by defensive players.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | October 19, 2010; 10:44 AM ET | Comments (0)
Use your head?
The NFL must set its policy on helmet-to-helmet hits with consideration to all lower levels of football where players are taught to emulate the physical play of professional stars.
By Dr. Mark Adickes | October 19, 2010; 08:52 AM ET | Comments (0)
Changing a defender's mindset
Rodney and James Harrison made it clear that some defenders are looking to hurt players with every hit. The only way to change that mentality is to actually enforce ejections and suspensions.
By Joe Baker | October 19, 2010; 08:40 AM ET | Comments (0)
What should the NFL do to reduce helmet-to-helmet hits?
What should the NFL do to limit the helmet-to-helmet hits that so often cause concussions and other serious injuries?
By Reader Poll | October 19, 2010; 01:00 AM ET | Comments (4)
Waiting on technology to catch up
Players are instructed and encouraged to make big hits, and a fine likely won't discourage them from doing so.
By Anthony Stalter | October 19, 2010; 12:56 AM ET | Comments (2)
More to be done
The NFL is paying greater attention to the serious health risks of concussions, but a simple rule change without more medical restrictions on a player's ability to return to the field following a concussion won't cut it.
By Dr. Matthew Prowler | October 19, 2010; 12:30 AM ET | Comments (1)
Head to head combat
The NFL is taking head injuries seriously and game suspensions should help limit helmet-to-helmet hits, but re-teaching tackling techniques to better protect players may be worth exploring as well.
By Dawn Knight | October 19, 2010; 12:15 AM ET | Comments (1)
A violent, dangerous game
Football is a violent and dangerous game, and at some point there's not much else the NFL can do to prevent head injuries.
By Jason Brewer | October 19, 2010; 12:10 AM ET | Comments (1)
Teaching "toughness"
Football players are taught from a young age that the game is about punishing and intimidating your opponent. Until that fundamental teaching changes, no amount of punishment will reverse the trend of dangerous hits to the head.
By Dave Goldberg | October 19, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (2)
Is this much parity good for the NFL?
Is this much early season parity good for the NFL?
By Reader Poll | October 12, 2010; 12:04 PM ET | Comments (1)
Parity reigns supreme
Parity reigns supreme in the NFL and if you're a general football fan, you're mighty happy about it.
By Anthony Stalter | October 12, 2010; 11:35 AM ET | Comments (0)
Colts hurting at DT
Peyton Manning and the Colts are not a franchise on the decline, but their inability to stop the run is taking its toll on their AFC South supremacy.
By Anthony Stalter | October 5, 2010; 10:54 AM ET | Comments (0)
Big Ben's adjustment period
The Steelers are clicking without their starting quarterback, but when Ben Roethlisberger returns, it will take a few games for him to get back in the flow and in NFL game shape.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | September 28, 2010; 11:44 AM ET | Comments (1)
Polamalu is the real MVP
Troy Polamalu has the Steelers defense playing up to the level of -- and maybe better than -- the 1976 Steel Curtain.
By Doug Farrar | September 28, 2010; 09:17 AM ET | Comments (0)
How far will the Steelers go?
How far will the Pittsburgh Steelers go this season?
By Reader Poll | September 28, 2010; 09:08 AM ET | Comments (2)
Big Ben, whatever
The Pittsburgh Steelers have proven their worth, with or without Big Ben.
By Dawn Knight | September 28, 2010; 08:50 AM ET | Comments (4)
Scary good
The Steelers are playing some of the best football in the NFL without star quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. When he returns, they could be the best team in the AFC.
By Matt Loede | September 28, 2010; 08:32 AM ET | Comments (0)
A lesson in continuity
Pittsburgh's sustained success is a tribute to a system built on continuity and the 2010 Steelers are no different.
By Dave Goldberg | September 28, 2010; 12:46 AM ET | Comments (1)
We should have known
With a fresh quarterback joining the league's top defense, the Pittsburgh Steelers have the tools to make another Super Bowl run. So why was Peter King the only one who saw this coming?
By Michael Kun | September 28, 2010; 12:21 AM ET | Comments (1)
Warning signs were there for Vikes, 'Boys
With Brett Favre missing training camp and Tony Romo continuing to struggle in crunch time, it's no surprise the Vikings and Cowboys are staring at 0-2 records.
By Leonard Shapiro | September 21, 2010; 05:11 PM ET | Comments (0)
Unpredicted and undefeated
Three undefeated teams - the Bears, Bucs and Chiefs - are the biggest surprises after Week 2.
By Anthony Stalter | September 21, 2010; 11:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
Minnesota hostage crisis
Brett Favre's diminishing skills are hardly a surprise but the sudden descent of the Minnesota Vikings is a shocker for fans and the media alike.
By Brian Tarcy | September 21, 2010; 11:12 AM ET | Comments (0)
Chiefs take the cake
With an untested quarterback and an ageless wonder in the backfield, the Kansas City Chiefs are the biggest 2-0 surprise this season.
By Nick Houllis | September 21, 2010; 10:56 AM ET | Comments (0)
Chiefs, Cowboys lead early surprises
Of all the hot and cold starts to the season, the Kansas City Chiefs' 2-0 mark and the Dallas Cowboys' stumble to 0-2 are the biggest stunners.
By H. Gore | September 21, 2010; 10:40 AM ET | Comments (0)
Texas two-step
The Dallas Cowboys' slow start isn't a total shock and they should still contend for the NFC East, but the Houston Texans appear poised for a postseason run following two impressive victories to start the season.
By Michael Bean | September 21, 2010; 10:23 AM ET | Comments (0)
Too early to tell
Two games into the season is too early to write off the Cowboys and Vikings or anoint the Chiefs, Bears, Bucs or Dolphins legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
By Michael Kun | September 21, 2010; 10:04 AM ET | Comments (0)
Parity is plentiful
Few expected the Kansas City Chiefs to win the AFC West or the Chicago Bears to take the NFC North, but that both are off to 2-0 starts speaks to the parity of the NFL.
By Joel Thorman | September 21, 2010; 09:32 AM ET | Comments (0)
Result won't tell us much
Thursday's season opener between the Vikings and Saints should be another entertaining game between two playoff teams, but it won't tell us too much about the season ahead.
By Michael Kun | September 7, 2010; 12:41 PM ET | Comments (0)
Vikings or Saints: pick 'em
Which team will win Thursday night's season opening NFC title game rematch between the Minnesota Vikings and the New Orleans Saints?
By Reader Poll | September 7, 2010; 11:20 AM ET | Comments (0)
Saints keep marching
Brett Favre and the Vikings have a tough road to hoe if they hope to repeat last year's success, and their descent should begin Thursday night against the Saints.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | September 7, 2010; 11:07 AM ET | Comments (0)
Expect a shootout
Expect the game to live up to its hype with the Saints coming out on top in a shootout.
By Anthony Stalter | September 7, 2010; 10:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
Saints will swarm Favre
The Saints will again try to put pressure on a still-hobbled Brett Favre in the pocket and ride the emotion of their home opener to another narrow victory.
By Matt Loede | September 7, 2010; 10:24 AM ET | Comments (3)
History on Saints' side
History, health and talent favor the defending Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints in their season opener Thursday night against the Minnesota Vikings.
By Dan Parker | September 7, 2010; 10:03 AM ET | Comments (0)
All depends on the zebras
How officials treat the Saints' pressure on Brett Favre could impact New Orleans' ability to repeat its victory from last winter's NFC title game
By Doug Farrar | September 7, 2010; 09:23 AM ET | Comments (0)
Injuring the game
More regular season games will lead to more injuries and more games with Curtis Painter under center for the Colts.
By Dawn Knight | August 31, 2010; 03:47 PM ET | Comments (0)
Is an 18-game schedule the right move?
Should the NFL expand to an 18-game regular season schedule?
By Reader Poll | August 31, 2010; 12:15 PM ET | Comments (0)
A death sentence
Expanding the NFL season to 18 games will dilute the product, increase serious player injuries and threaten football's status as America's most popular sport.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | August 31, 2010; 12:02 PM ET | Comments (0)
Ticket uptick
An expanded regular season would help teams increase revenue through ticket sales, even if it takes a greater toll on the players on the field.
By Brandon Benson | August 31, 2010; 11:52 AM ET | Comments (0)
Feasible with fixes
If the NFL addresses injury and player compensation issues in the new collective bargaining agreement, an 18-game regular season could be a feasible format.
By Tim McHale | August 31, 2010; 11:44 AM ET | Comments (1)
Less is more
The current NFL regular season structure is one of the many things that make the NFL the most popular professional sports league in the U.S., and there's no need to screw that up.
By Michael Bean | August 31, 2010; 11:32 AM ET | Comments (1)
Brilliant bargaining chip
Even if the proposed 18-game regular season expansion does not get approved, it could prove to be the perfect incentive to get the NFL Players Association to the bargaining table for collective bargaining agreement negotiations.
By Michael Kun | August 31, 2010; 10:43 AM ET | Comments (0)
Wrong in so many ways
An expanded NFL regular season is a terrible idea any way you look at it.
By Doug Farrar | August 31, 2010; 01:48 AM ET | Comments (0)
Money trumps all
Despite a number of obvious drawbacks, NFL regular season expansion appears to be foregone conclusion
By Dave Goldberg | August 31, 2010; 12:17 AM ET | Comments (0)
Haynesworth and Shanahan share blame
Both Mike Shanahan and Albert Haynesworth deserve blame for the three-ring circus playing out in Ashburn.
By Chris Richardson | August 24, 2010; 02:12 PM ET | Comments (2)
100 million dollar baby
It's time for Albert Haynesworth to shut up and play for his massive -- and undeserved -- contract.
By Dawn Knight | August 24, 2010; 02:05 PM ET | Comments (0)
Danny does it again
By giving a player with a track record of bad behavior a massive contract yet again, Redskins owner Daniel Snyder can only blame himself for the mess in Washington.
By Anthony Stalter | August 24, 2010; 12:38 PM ET | Comments (0)
It's Fat Albert!
Mike Shanahan has laid down the law in D.C. and with or without Albert Haynesworth, the Redskins should at least improve on last year's 4-12 season.
By Jason Maloni | August 24, 2010; 11:04 AM ET | Comments (0)
How many games will Albert play?
How many games will Albert Haynesworth play for the Washington Redskins this season?
By Reader Poll | August 24, 2010; 10:28 AM ET | Comments (0)
Let's be professional
A motivated Albert Haynesworth would be a tremendous asset to the Redskins' defense, but how do you motivate someone who has shown no signs of wanting to compete?
By Dr. Mark Adickes | August 24, 2010; 09:02 AM ET | Comments (1)
Time to cut bait
Of all the situations Mike Shanahan inherited, none was more toxic -- and more permanent -- than what has been created by Albert Haynesworth.
By Doug Farrar | August 24, 2010; 08:34 AM ET | Comments (0)
Hardly a surprise
There appears to be no way out of the Albert Haynesworth mess for the Washington Redskins
By Robert Littal | August 24, 2010; 01:50 AM ET | Comments (1)
My roly poly model
I get paid $100 million to write this column, but I am not writing about Albert Haynesworth or the Redskins.
By Brian Tarcy | August 24, 2010; 01:21 AM ET | Comments (0)
A rocky marriage
At this point, the Washington Redskins have to hope Albert Haynesworth's relationship with defensive coordinator Jim Haslett will get him onto the field sooner rather than later.
By Leonard Shapiro | August 24, 2010; 12:45 AM ET | Comments (0)
No excuses for Albert
There's simply no excuse for Albert Haynesworth's poor character and poor judgment since he signed a $100 million contract with the Washington Redskins.
By Michael Kun | August 24, 2010; 12:30 AM ET | Comments (2)
It's Snyder's mess
There's plenty of blame to throw around, but Daniel Snyder should once again bear the brunt for overpaying a player with questionable work ethic.
By Dave Goldberg | August 24, 2010; 12:10 AM ET | Comments (3)
Don't count your chickens
Brett Favre gives the Vikings the best chance to win, so his decision to come back is a welcome one. But injuries and questionable coaching decisions may keep Minnesota from winning it all this year.
By Anthony Stalter | August 18, 2010; 01:30 PM ET | Comments (0)
Groundhog Brett
Brett Favre's offseason routine rivals Punxsutawney Phil's annual Groundhog Day charade.
By Brian Tarcy | August 18, 2010; 11:08 AM ET | Comments (0)
Rodgers, Packers block the way
Brett Favre's gunslinging approach could cost the Vikings this season with Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers poised to take the NFC North.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | August 18, 2010; 11:02 AM ET | Comments (0)
Surviving the opener is key
The Saints gave the NFL the defensive gameplan for stopping Brett Favre in last season's NFC title game, which could spell trouble for the Vikings this fall.
By Doug Farrar | August 18, 2010; 09:36 AM ET | Comments (1)
One more run
If his ankle can hold up, Brett Favre could go out on top by leading the Minnesota Vikings to the Super Bowl.
By Leonard Shapiro | August 18, 2010; 09:23 AM ET | Comments (0)
Concerns at skill positions
Brett Favre's bid for another Super Bowl title could be derailed by injuries and inconsistent play from the Vikings running backs and receivers.
By Brandon Benson | August 18, 2010; 09:11 AM ET | Comments (0)
Window is closing
The window is closing on Brett Favre and the Vikings who may have missed their best chance at a Super Bowl title last season.
By Dave Goldberg | August 18, 2010; 06:54 AM ET | Comments (0)
Count on regression
The Vikings could make another playoff run with Brett Favre back, but expect the quarterback to experience a statistical regression back to his career averages across the board.
By Joe Baker | August 18, 2010; 04:43 AM ET | Comments (0)
Healthy Vikes will contend
With Brett Favre back in the fold, the questions the Minnesota Vikings need answers to deal with the health of his supporting cast, including Adrian Peterson, Sidney Rice and Percey Harvin
By Michael Kun | August 18, 2010; 02:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Pay him and play him
If Darrelle Revis can be as dominant as he was for the New York Jets defense last season, he's worthy of being the highest paid defensive back in the NFL.
By Gene Wang | August 11, 2010; 11:36 PM ET | Comments (0)
Can the Jets win without Revis?
Can the New York Jets reach the Super Bowl without cornerback Darrelle Revis?
By Reader Poll | August 11, 2010; 12:20 PM ET | Comments (0)
Revis roulette
Sure, the Jets could reach the Super Bowl without Darrelle Revis, but why take the risk?
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | August 11, 2010; 12:08 PM ET | Comments (0)
Conflict brewing in Cortland
The escalating stand-off between the New York Jets and cornerback Darrelle Revis has taken on Cold War characteristics.
By Peter Schaffer | August 11, 2010; 11:40 AM ET | Comments (0)
Revis is the key
The Jets have been overhyped by everyone this season, and the only chance they have of living up to the hype is by getting Darrelle Revis back on the field.
By Michael Kun | August 11, 2010; 10:55 AM ET | Comments (1)
Show him the money
New York Jets owner Woody Johnson needs Darrelle Revis to build a winner. It's time to open up the checkbook.
By Dave Goldberg | August 11, 2010; 10:45 AM ET | Comments (1)
Put team first
Darrelle Revis is more concerned with being the highest paid player at his position than he is with helping the New York Jets contend for a Super Bowl. Kudos to the Jets for not folding to his selfish demands.
By Anthony Stalter | August 11, 2010; 10:33 AM ET | Comments (0)
No Super Bowl without him
The Jets need to give the top cover cornerback in the NFL his due, because they absolutely need him to achieve their potential this season.
By Matt Loede | August 11, 2010; 10:26 AM ET | Comments (0)
Players can point the finger at themselves
NCAA athletes should shoulder the blame when they take improper benefits from agents.
By Anthony Stalter | August 3, 2010; 01:18 PM ET | Comments (1)
NFL must follow NCAA's lead, add bite to bark
There is no strict policing of agents. Agents' actions can get players and their collegiate teams in real trouble, but until the NFL and/or NFLPA takes a tip from the NCAA and elects to discipline those in their control -- the rogue agents -- the problem will continue to spiral out of control. It will take someone much more intelligent than I to come up with the legal mumbo-jumbo to get this thing fixed correctly. But, doesn't it make sense for agents to suffer similar consequences as the athletes should they be found involved in these cases?
By Rob Rang | August 3, 2010; 12:14 PM ET | Comments (0)
Are agents to blame?
Who is most responsible for the issues resulting from improper relations between agents and college athletes?
By Reader Poll | August 3, 2010; 11:53 AM ET | Comments (0)
Heads in the sand
The NCAA must step up and act to protect its players from opportunistic agents rather than simply handing down sanctions to college programs after the fact.
By Dave Goldberg | August 3, 2010; 11:33 AM ET | Comments (0)
The blame game
Universities must provide personnel to teams to prevent agent interaction that may result in NCAA sanctions. College players cannot be held solely accountable.
By Dr. Mark Adickes | August 3, 2010; 10:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
An unsustainable system
NCAA athletes earn millions of dollars for their universities, coaches and administrators but receive very little in return for their performance. That must change.
By Michael Oriard | August 3, 2010; 10:30 AM ET | Comments (3)
New rules for schools
Colleges and agents need to be held accountable for improper dealings with NCAA athletes, and a new system needs to be established that does not punish innocent bystanders for the actions of past players.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | August 3, 2010; 10:20 AM ET | Comments (0)
Slotted salaries needed
Slotted salaries at both the NFL and NCAA levels would greatly reduce the influence of agents while also giving so-called amateur athletes the compensation they deserve for their performance on the field.
By Doug Farrar | August 3, 2010; 01:25 AM ET | Comments (1)
Who's in your 2011 Super Bowl?
Which two teams will reach Super Bowl XLV in Dallas this winter?
By Reader Poll | July 28, 2010; 10:58 AM ET | Comments (0)
Bring on the Bird Bowl
The Falcons and Ravens have made all the right offseason moves to fly higher in 2010-11.
By Anthony Stalter | July 28, 2010; 10:00 AM ET | Comments (3)
Something old and new
The Indianapolis Colts will return to the Super Bowl in 2011 and line up against the up-and-coming Atlanta Falcons in Big D.
By Michael Kun | July 28, 2010; 06:10 AM ET | Comments (0)
Ravens rise to the top
With a combination of defense and improving offenses, the Baltimore Ravens and Green Bay Packers would make a tantalizing Super Bowl XLV matchup in Big D.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | July 28, 2010; 05:30 AM ET | Comments (1)
Ravens to rule
The suddenly offensively charged Baltimore Ravens have a great shot at keep the New Orleans Saints from repeating as Super Bowl champions in 2011.
By Jason Maloni | July 28, 2010; 12:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
Super Bowl renaissance
It's way too early for 2011 Super Bowl predictions, so here's one for you: The Packers and Dolphins will make it to Big D this winter.
By Dave Goldberg | July 28, 2010; 12:30 AM ET | Comments (0)
How many picks will be unsigned by start of camps?
How many first-round NFL draft picks will still be unsigned when training camps begin next week?
By Reader Poll | July 23, 2010; 11:19 AM ET | Comments (0)
Procrastination will give way
While owners, rookies and their agents have different financial concerns with the uncertainty of the next collective bargaining agreement ahead, their procrastination and excuses will eventually give way and the current crop of first-round picks will be in camp before long.
By Rob Rang | July 23, 2010; 10:09 AM ET | Comments (0)
Dominio effect
A looming NFL lockout and the uncertainty of the next collective bargaining agreement has player agents looking to cash in now.
By Brandon Benson | July 23, 2010; 09:07 AM ET | Comments (0)
Something's fishy
If there's collusion going on between NFL owners, it's the restricted free agents who are getting the raw deal, not unsigned first-round draft picks.
By Doug Farrar | July 23, 2010; 07:52 AM ET | Comments (0)
Need for guaranteed money
Guaranteed contracts, like those that exist in other major professional sports, would benefit NFL players and owners and eliminate rookie contract holdouts.
By Michael Kun | July 23, 2010; 12:36 AM ET | Comments (2)
Uncharted waters ahead
NFL's uncertain financial future has players, agents and owners waiting for someone else to take the plunge before signing a rookie contract. Even if it takes longer than usual, the deals will get done by the start of the season.
By Dave Goldberg | July 23, 2010; 12:10 AM ET | Comments (0)
Strike while the iron's hot
First-round draft picks and their agents are looking to land big paydays before a rookie wage scale is put in place, but with uncertainty on the horizon, teams are thinking twice about shelling massive rookie contracts.
By Joel Thorman | July 23, 2010; 12:05 AM ET | Comments (0)
Codeine concoction a serious issue
Purple drank abuse has run rampant through hip-hop and athlete culture for years, and despite the fact that it's only now garnering mainstream media attention, the NFL needs to act now to curb prescription drug addiction and abuse.
By Richard Boadu & Claude Clayborne | July 22, 2010; 03:33 PM ET | Comments (1)
Abuse beyond NFL
Prescription drug abuse and addiction is on the rise across the United States and codeine -- the key ingredient in "purple drank" -- is one of a number of recreational prescription drugs that needs to be more closely controlled.
By Dr. Matthew Prowler | July 20, 2010; 01:32 PM ET | Comments (2)
Southern 'sizzurp' gaining in popularity
Purple drank is more prevalent in hip-hop culture than athlete culture, and while it's use is something sports leagues should be aware of, at this point it's not nearly as big of a concern as performance enhancing drugs.
By Robert Littal | July 20, 2010; 12:23 PM ET | Comments (0)
Sippin' Siz-erp
The year-long suspension levied against Packers' lineman Johnny Jolly should serve as a deterrent for NFL athletes looking to get a quick fix with the purple drank.
By Dawn Knight | July 20, 2010; 11:06 AM ET | Comments (2)
Downtime leads to drug use
Purple drank is simply the latest recreational drug of choice for athletes looking for something to do during down time. Hopefully recent suspensions levied by the league will limit its use going forward.
By Anthony Stalter | July 20, 2010; 10:52 AM ET | Comments (0)
Is codeine abuse a problem for NFL?
Are the recent arrests of JaMarcus Russell and Johnny Jolly for codeine possession a sign that "purple drank" has become a serious substance abuse problem in the NFL?
By Reader Poll | July 20, 2010; 10:18 AM ET | Comments (0)
More needs to be done
The abuse of codeine in the infamous purple drank is becoming a trend in mainstream society and the NFL, where something should be done to curb its use.
By Doug Farrar | July 20, 2010; 02:05 AM ET | Comments (0)
Is hip-hop to thank?
The increasing presence of purple drank in hip-hop culture and rap music coupled with its rapid excretion from the body which masks detection in drug testing has led to a growing problem of codeine abuse in the NFL.
By Dr. Mark Adickes | July 20, 2010; 12:40 AM ET | Comments (3)
Not a league-wide issue, yet
At least for now, the purple drank appears to be an isolated problem affecting JaMarcus Russell and Johnny Jolly and not an NFL-wide epidemic.
By Michael Kun | July 20, 2010; 12:05 AM ET | Comments (1)
More distraction than crisis
At the moment, the purple drank craze is a much less severe threat to the NFL than the impending 2011 lockout.
By Michael Oriard | July 20, 2010; 12:03 AM ET | Comments (1)
Atlanta ready to bounce back
Third-year quarterback Matt Ryan and a rejuvenated running game led by Michael Turner should land the Atlanta Falcons back in the playoffs this winter.
By David Fucillo | July 14, 2010; 10:35 AM ET | Comments (1)
Houston in the hunt
With a top-notch offense, the Houston Texans might only need an average defense to make their first trip to the playoffs in 2010.
By Tim McHale | July 13, 2010; 10:46 AM ET | Comments (0)
Don't sleep on Raiders
A slew of offseason moves have the Oakland Raiders in position to turn the tables in the very winnable AFC West.
By Josh Kirkendall | July 13, 2010; 10:41 AM ET | Comments (0)
Falcons will fly higher
With a young quarterback coming into his own and more than enough talent around him, the Atlanta Falcons will not only make the playoffs in 2010, they're going all the way to the NFC title game.
By Michael Kun | July 13, 2010; 08:56 AM ET | Comments (1)
This could be Texans' year
If the right breaks fall their way, the Houston Texans could crack the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.
By Doug Farrar | July 13, 2010; 01:34 AM ET | Comments (0)
How will NBA impact new NFL CBA?
How will LeBron James and the current NBA free agency process impact a new NFL collective bargaining agreement?
By Reader Poll | July 8, 2010; 12:47 PM ET | Comments (0)
NFL remains the real king
The NFL continues to dominate the sports landscape, giving its owners the power and arrogance necessary to prevent its players from enjoying the spoils of an NBA-style free agent auction.
By Anthony Stalter | July 8, 2010; 12:15 PM ET | Comments (0)
City-sized ego
While the LeBron James free agency circus might factor into a new NFL collective bargaining agreement, there simply is not an NFL star with LeBron's $100 million ego.
By Dawn Knight | July 8, 2010; 12:02 PM ET | Comments (2)
The almighty franchise tag
While Cleveland Cavaliers fans would love to keep LeBron James in town with the power of the NFL's franchise tag, it's that singular factor that most greatly differentiates the NBA's wide open free agent market and the far more restrictive NFL.
By Tim McHale | July 8, 2010; 11:50 AM ET | Comments (1)
The power of publicity
Fewer free agency restrictions in the NFL would allow the league to capitalize on the type of publicity storm currently swirling around LeBron James and the NBA's free agent class.
By Brandon Benson | July 8, 2010; 11:16 AM ET | Comments (0)
Liberate the players
Just like NBA stars, top NFL free agents should have the ability to choose their destinations and create drama in the offseason.
By Adam Tracey | July 8, 2010; 10:57 AM ET | Comments (0)
Apples and oranges
There's simply no way to compare the financial systems of the NBA and the NFL as their respective collective bargaining agreements are miles apart.
By Jason Maloni | July 8, 2010; 09:08 AM ET | Comments (0)
There's no "$" in "team"
In a team sport like football, blockbuster NBA-style free agent deals will never be the norm.
By Dave Goldberg | July 8, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Right place at the right time
When one of Michael Vick's co-defendants was shot after Vick's birthday party, the Philadelphia Eagles backup quarterback was exactly where he should have been -- long gone.
By Michael Kun | June 29, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Is the NFL doing enough to curb PED use?
Is the NFL doing enough to curb the use of banned substances through its drug testing and suspension policy?
By Reader Poll | May 28, 2010; 10:47 AM ET | Comments (0)
Level the playing field
The NFL could and should do more to enforce its banned substance policy, starting with making first-time offenders sit out a full season without pay.
By Leonard Shapiro | May 28, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Time to reel in HGH
The NFL's drug testing system, for the most part, is effective in discouraging its players from using performance enhancing drugs, but it may be time for the league to regulate human growth hormone use as well.
By Dr. Mark Adickes | May 28, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (1)
Disorganized deterrent
With the NFL's current haphazard drug policy it appears the league will only take action against a player who test positive for a banned substance if it absolutely must. There's got to be a better way.
By Doug Farrar | May 28, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Straightforward and sufficient
The NFL's performance enhancing drug policy is a sufficient enough deterrent and those who seek to beat the system are outliers, not the norm.
By Tim McHale | May 28, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
All about perspective
Like the tragic results that often result from legal drug use, the NFL's banned substance testing and suspension policy does enough to curb the use of performance enhancing drugs in the league.
By Dave Goldberg | May 28, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Super Meadowlands
New York is the perfect site to host the Super Bowl and the biggest week-long party in all of American professional sports.
By Edward Valentine | May 25, 2010; 12:01 AM ET | Comments (3)
Not your average Super Bowl
Playing a Super Bowl in New York could change the style of play on the field, but it won't make the dream of hosting the NFL's biggest game any closer to reality for the rest of the league's cold-weather teams.
By Brandon Benson | May 25, 2010; 12:01 AM ET | Comments (3)
Embrace the elements
Every city, regardless of climate, should have the opportunity to host the Super Bowl and experience the pinnacle of the NFL experience.
By Anthony Stalter | May 25, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Always warm on the couch
Cold weather Super Bowls would enhance the experience of the vast majority of NFL fans -- those who watch the game from the climate-controlled comforts of their own homes.
By Michael Kun | May 25, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
A flip of the coin
If the NFL begins to play Super Bowl games at outdoor stadiums in cold-weather climates, it will lead to the thought that championship games can be played anywhere and forever alter the league's grandest spectacle.
By Dave Goldberg | May 25, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Follow the money
The promise of a Super Bowl helps convince local municipalities to open up their wallets to help pay for new stadiums, regardless of climate.
By Jason Brewer | May 25, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Costs of the cold
Nostalgia aside, while playing multiple Super Bowls in cold weather cities would provide a boost to local economies, it would also test the financial abilities of those markets to host such a massive event.
By Josh Kirkendall | May 25, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Piling on layers
While hosting Super Bowls in cold climates may weed out some of the corporate presence at the NFL championship game and allow more average fans to attend, the product on the field could cost the league casual fans who prefer high-scoring affairs to defensive struggles.
By Adam Tracey | May 25, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Don't Expect It Beyond New York
If New Meadowlands Stadium hosts a Super Bowl, it will be a reward for the New York Giants and Jets spending so much money on a new stadium, but that won't necessarily lead to more cold weather championship games.
By Doug Farrar | May 25, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (4)
NFL players face unhealthy system when it comes to treating injuries
While NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is considering whether to suspend players for seeking cures from the syringe-wielding physician Anthony Galea, he should ask why so many of them distrust their team physicians and seek alternative ways to heal. Medical care in the league is not a simple issue. Anyone who says otherwise should read up on O.J. McDuffie's case.
By Sally Jenkins | May 22, 2010; 10:56 AM ET | Comments (0)
Pay day for 'Dre
Andre Johnson is the best wide receiver in the NFL and it's time his contract reflected his value to the Houston Texans.
By Tim McHale | May 19, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
A blip on offseason radar
Both Andre and Chris Johnson deserve restructured contracts and both should get them before the season begins. Until then, their holdouts are just a blip on the offseason radar.
By Dave Goldberg | May 19, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Pony up and pay the man
Andre Johnson has made himself expendable by quietly becoming the best wide receiver in the NFL. Now the Houston Texans should defy conventional wisdom and pay their top talent.
By Anthony Stalter | May 19, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (3)
Long holdouts looming
Both Andre and Chris Johnson deserve new long-term contracts but neither has the leverage to make that happen anytime soon, which could result in lengthy holdouts and contract disputes.
By Joe Baker | May 19, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
CBA is biggest hurdle
The biggest hurdle preventing Chris Johnson from becoming the highest paid offensive player in the NFL isn't his team's wallet, it's the current Collective Bargaining Agreement.
By Jason Brewer | May 19, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Do Johnsons deserve new deals?
Should the Texans and Titans give Andre and Chris Johnson new deals?
By Reader Poll | May 19, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Dear AP: Don't look back
Associated Press should stick with the votes they made at the end of the season, just as they do when voting for awards across professional sports.
By Brandon Benson | May 12, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Policy holes lead to undeserving winners
Holes in NFL banned substance testing policy allowed Brian Cushing and others to continue playing long after a positive test.
By Doug Farrar | May 12, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Suspension is sufficient
Brian Cushing's league-issued four-game suspension is punishment enough for his used of a banned substance. The Associated Press should not feel compelled to pile on by stripping him of his well-deserved Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
By Tim McHale | May 12, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
The pressure to perform
Brian Cushing is far from the first defensive rookie whose desire to be a star his first year led him to take performance enhancing drugs. Now he's suffering the consequences.
By Anthony Stalter | May 12, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (1)
It's in the position
The AP is right to revote on the 2009 Defensive Rookie of the Year award, but a trend of banned substance use among elite pass rushers might be a sign that certain position players are more likely to experiment with steroids.
By Joe Baker | May 12, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Should AP strip Cushing?
Should the Associated Press strip Houston Texans' linebacker Brian Cushing off his 2009 Defensive Rookie of the Year award for testing positive for a banned substance?
By Reader Poll | May 12, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Bears beef up
While they didn't make a big splash in the draft, the Chicago Bears were the most active team early in free agency and if their big-name acquisitions can step in and produce, they should be back in the playoff picture.
By Adam Tracey | May 6, 2010; 12:46 PM ET | Comments (0)
Ravens locked and loaded
Bolstered by several top free agent signings and another stellar draft class, the Baltimore Ravens have no excuse for not challenging for the AFC championship in 2010.
By Jason Brewer | May 5, 2010; 04:18 PM ET | Comments (0)
Ravens, Dolphins make big upgrades
The Baltimore Ravens and Miami Dolphins filled holes on both sides of the ball and provided young quarterbacks with significant upgrades in the passing game through the draft and free agency.
By Anthony Stalter | May 5, 2010; 11:34 AM ET | Comments (0)
Seahawks lead the pack
A great draft weekend and a pair of trades to help the running game have the Seahawks ready to compete again in the NFC West
By Doug Farrar | May 5, 2010; 07:14 AM ET | Comments (0)
Let's wait and see
The New York Jets and Washington Redskins both made a number of moves to improve their teams this offseason, but what impact those and any other moves will have won't be known until the regular season is fully underway.
By Dave Goldberg | May 5, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
NFC West beefs up
The Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers both took significant strides through free agent acquisitions and the draft make themselves division title contenders once again in the NFC West.
By David Fucillo | May 5, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (2)
Don't sleep on Bucs
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers may not be making offseason headlines, but with shrewd draft selections, they've assembled the foundation for a winning future.
By Nick Houllis | May 5, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Which team has had the best offseason?
Which NFL franchise has most improved its team during the 2010 offseason?
By Reader Poll | May 5, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
League should take action
The NFL has a responsibility to incoming players to more closely monitor pre-draft interviews so questions like the one Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland asked Dez Bryant are prohibited.
By Anthony Stalter | April 30, 2010; 12:18 PM ET | Comments (0)
Questions complicate larger issues
The public outcry surrounding Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland's inappropriate question to Dez Bryant could forever change the protocol for prospect interviews
By Doug Farrar | April 30, 2010; 10:01 AM ET | Comments (1)
An inexcusable inquiry
There's no way to sugarcoat the question Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland posed to Dez Bryant in a pre-draft interview, and the NFL should encourage future draft prospects to report that type of questioning.
By Brandon Benson | April 30, 2010; 09:38 AM ET | Comments (1)
Whistle blowing aspirations
The real outrage in the Dez Bryant-Jeff Ireland situation should be directed at the sports writer who blew this story out of proportion to brighten his own star.
By Matt Infante | April 30, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (1)
Crossing the line
Asking a potential NFL draft pick personal questions about his own background is one thing, but interrogating him about his family is crossing the line.
By Dave Goldberg | April 30, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (1)
Context and tone
Without knowing the tone or context of the questions posed to Dez Bryant and Myron Rolle, it's impossible to know whether or not they were inappropriate. What we do know is both men were mature enough to handle them.
By Michael Kun | April 30, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (1)
Let them ask
Before investing millions of dollars in a player, NFL franchise executives should be permitted to asses a player's character...only if they are willing to accept whatever any and all responses.
By Dan Parker | April 30, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Interview regulation?
Should the NFL more closely monitor and regulate how franchises conduct pre-draft player interviews?
By Reader Poll | April 29, 2010; 11:52 PM ET | Comments (0)
Ratings say it all
For true fans of the NFL draft, the new prime time format was a smashing success.
By Anthony Stalter | April 27, 2010; 10:08 AM ET | Comments (0)
Drafting America's idols
For fans of the NFLs best teams and its worst, April is the best time of the year.
By Brian Tarcy | April 27, 2010; 09:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
Online is the way to go
NFL.com provided updates, scouting reports and all the information the television broadcasts were lacking.
By Brandon Benson | April 27, 2010; 09:33 AM ET | Comments (0)
Driven Away from ESPN
The new NFL draft prime time format worked for ratings but ESPN's coverage was a train wreck.
By Doug Farrar | April 27, 2010; 01:36 AM ET | Comments (0)
Best draft coverage ever?
Did you enjoy the 2010 NFL draft broadcast more than broadcasts in previous years?
By Reader Poll | April 27, 2010; 12:29 AM ET | Comments (0)
ESPN ruins the moment
By beating Roger Goodell to the podium time and time again, ESPN stole the thunder of the NFL commissioner and ruined the spirit of the 2010 NFL draft.
By Michael Kun | April 27, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (1)
Picks over shtick
All the interviews, on-set arguments and fluff of ESPN's 2010 NFL draft broadcast took away from what viewers actually wanted to see -- the picks.
By Edward Valentine | April 27, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Bumblin' and fumblin'
The overblown overkill of ESPN's NFL draft coverage team detracted from the event, leading at least one draftnik to flip to the NFL Network.
By Dave Goldberg | April 27, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Slippery slope
By issuing suspensions to players who have not been charged with crimes, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is in danger of becoming Big Brother
By Jason Maloni | April 22, 2010; 11:51 AM ET | Comments (1)
Goodell had to do something
It's hard to find a fitting punishment when the full extent of the offense remains unknown, but NFL commissioner Roger Goodell had to take action against Ben Roethlisberger and the four-to-six game suspension is about the best he could do.
By Dan Parker | April 22, 2010; 09:55 AM ET | Comments (1)
Moral vs. criminal code
Roger Goodell's decision to suspend Ben Roethlisberger for six games protects the integrity of the NFL's moral standards without overstepping his bounds as commissioner.
By Doug Farrar | April 22, 2010; 01:13 AM ET | Comments (1)
Not about the number
It's not the length of the suspension dolled out to Ben Roethlisberger that matters. It's how he uses that time to recoup his image and grow up.
By Anthony Stalter | April 22, 2010; 12:23 AM ET | Comments (0)
Fortunate son
Ben Roethlisberger should consider himself lucky to walk away with the suspension handed down by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and clean up his act now.
By Robert Littal | April 21, 2010; 11:54 PM ET | Comments (1)
Not the Rooney way
Ben Roethlisberger's alleged transgressions have placed him in a group of former Pittsburgh Steelers who the Rooney family saw fit to unload to maintain the team's values. And like those before him, Roethlisberger is likely on his way out of the Steel City.
By Leonard Shapiro | April 21, 2010; 07:47 PM ET | Comments (0)
It helped another QB
The suspension handed down from Roger Goodell may be tough to swallow, but Ben Roethlisberger need only look to another star quarterback to see how league mandated punishment can help a talented player mature.
By Dave Goldberg | April 21, 2010; 04:04 PM ET | Comments (0)
Is the six-game suspension fair?
Is NFL commissioner Roger Goodell's decision to suspend Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger for six games fair?
By Reader Poll | April 21, 2010; 03:57 PM ET | Comments (0)
Short sighted moves
Bringing in Santonio Holmes and Antonio Cromartie give the Jets a better chance to win now, but by the end of the season, the could be right back where they were without the draft picks to fill the same holes.
By Jason Brewer | April 14, 2010; 10:55 AM ET | Comments (1)
Unfamiliar spotlight
The Jets flourished with a roster full of role players and team-oriented individuals in year one under Rex Ryan. He'll face a much greater test with a new trio of players who prefer the spotlight to anonymity.
By Michael Bean | April 13, 2010; 11:08 AM ET | Comments (0)
Cornering the market
The stability and sounds foundation Rex Ryan and the Jets posses has allowed them to take chances will talented, mercurial players.
By Doug Farrar | April 13, 2010; 10:08 AM ET | Comments (0)
On paper, two great moves
On paper, the Jets have upgraded their talent for a relatively low price. The question that remains is how will those new pieces - specifically Santonio Holmes and Antonio Cromartie - fit in with their team.
By Brandon Benson | April 13, 2010; 09:10 AM ET | Comments (0)
Locker room test
By bringing in an aging veteran tailback and a pair of talented players with a history of off the field troubles, Rex Ryan and the New York Jets are testing the strength of the locker room chemistry that helped them reach the AFC title game last season.
By John Gennaro | April 13, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
The operative word is 'if'
With a pair of talented players with off the field joining last year's AFC finalists in New York, the pay off for the Jets comes down to several big 'ifs'.
By Dave Goldberg | April 13, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
It rests on Rex
Rex Ryan must find a way for the latest additions to the New York Jets to mesh with his locker room for a team that lucked into the playoffs in 2009 to make a return trip in 2010.
By Michael Kun | April 13, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (1)
Smart moves for the Jets?
Were the trades that brought Santonio Holmes and Antonio Cromartie to New York smart moves for the Jets?
By Reader Poll | April 13, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Business as usual
Donovan McNabb leaving the Eagles for D.C. could shake up the NFC East, but all in all, it's just business as usual for both NFL franchises.
By Dave Goldberg | April 5, 2010; 09:37 AM ET | Comments (6)
Will McNabb fit in DC?
What do you think of the Redskins trading for Donovan McNabb?
By Reader Poll | April 4, 2010; 09:25 PM ET | Comments (28)
Realistic expectations
Outside of Philadelphia, Donovan McNabb still has the ability to be productive with a fresh start on a team in need of a steady winner.
By Sean McCann | April 2, 2010; 12:12 PM ET | Comments (0)
The numbers don't lie
On the right team with a strong receiving corps, Donovan McNabb could continue to produce and win games.
By Doug Farrar | April 2, 2010; 12:43 AM ET | Comments (1)
He deserves better
The Eagles would be wise to see what they have in Kevin Kolb, but for all Donovan McNabb has given Philadelphia, he deserves better than Oakland.
By Dave Goldberg | April 2, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (2)
The final piece
Donovan McNabb has plenty left in the tank, which makes him the perfect quarterback to push a borderline team into the playoffs. Think Brett Favre 2.0.
By Jason Brewer | April 2, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (3)
Could McNabb turn around a struggling franchise?
At this stage of his career, could Donovan McNabb turn around a struggling franchise?
By Reader Poll | April 2, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
The Bad Apple Experience, Steelers Style
A couple bad apples - who happen to be two of the franchise's biggest stars - run the risk of damaging the image of the Pittsburgh Steelers...unless they start winning again in September.
By Chris Richardson | March 30, 2010; 01:58 PM ET | Comments (1)
Taking the good with the bad
The current sports media culture feasts on controversy and type of allegations currently swirling around the Pittsburgh Steelers, and as a result, the days of "good guys" and "bad guys" and "model franchises" is over.
By Robert Littal | March 30, 2010; 10:50 AM ET | Comments (2)
Too Early to Tell
While Steelers stars Ben Roethlisberger and Santonio Holmes are certainly not bolstering their franchise's stature, the allegations against them have not seriously damaged the Pittsburgh franchise...at least not yet.
By Doug Farrar | March 30, 2010; 08:41 AM ET | Comments (0)
Will offseason trouble linger in Pittsburgh?
Will the current allegations surrounding Pittsburgh Steelers stars Ben Roethlisberger and Santonio Holmes have a lingering effect on the franchise?
By Reader Poll | March 30, 2010; 12:08 AM ET | Comments (1)
Short memory spans
While the current allegations surrounding Ben Roethlisberger and Santonio Holmes could form a lingering cloud over the Pittsburgh Steelers franchise, like so many other off-season incidents, these will eventually fade away from the media spotlight.
By Dave Goldberg | March 30, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Reputation at stake
The Steelers need only look to their AFC north neighbors in Cincinnati for proof that legal trouble and negative media attention can irreparably damage an NFL franchise.
By Joe Baker | March 30, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Pitt will right the ship
Off-the-field trouble can adversely affect on the field performance, but if the team's current legal trouble blows over as it appears it could, Ben Roethlisberger, Santonio Holmes and the Steelers should return to the playoffs sooner rather than later.
By Larry Brown | March 30, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Defense wins championships?
New format provides rewards for strategic decisions and personnel advantages on both sides of the ball.
By Doug Farrar | March 24, 2010; 02:20 AM ET | Comments (0)
Decisions, decisions
While the new postseason overtime format might increase fairness, it certainly doesn't make the job of an NFL coach any easier. Instead, they now have one more big second-guessable decision to make.
By Dave Goldberg | March 24, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (1)
The new blame game
The NFL coaches who were hesitant to back the new playoff overtime format will soon be scrambling for a new laminated "overtime scenarios" sheet to avoid ridicule for the strategic decisions they may now be forced to make.
By Michael Kun | March 24, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Risks will be rewarded
Look for pass-first offenses to excel in the new playoff overtime format while offenses that focus on the run may be forced to take risks in the extra period.
By Matt Loede | March 24, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Offensive shift continues
The new NFL playoff overtime format continues a trend of making games more offense-oriented.
By Joel Thorman | March 24, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (1)
What type of team will benefit?
What type of team will benefit most from the newly approved playoff overtime format?
By Reader Poll | March 24, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Talent in later rounds
It's always difficult to asses quarterback talent in the draft, but with the right situation and expectations, several QBs in the 2010 draft class could make an impact in the NFL.
By Dan Parker | March 17, 2010; 10:25 AM ET | Comments (0)
Innocent until proven guilty
Despite their fame and fortune, prominent athletes deserve the same rights and legal consideration the rest of the country is awarded.
By Jason Maloni | March 12, 2010; 12:48 PM ET | Comments (3)
The clock is ticking on Big Ben
With Ben Roethlisberger's latest dust up, the Steelers may have a serial moron on their hands and Big Ben may not get another chance to screw up again.
By Leonard Shapiro | March 12, 2010; 10:31 AM ET | Comments (3)
One final wake up call
The Steelers and their fans need Big Ben, so they can only hope this final wake up call is enough to get him to act like a $100 million franchise quarterback on and off the field.
By Michael Bean | March 12, 2010; 10:11 AM ET | Comments (1)
Illegal contact?
The latest allegations against Ben Roethlisberger once again beg the question, is this a case of sex addiction, and if so, is it a pathological condition or just a new excuse for the same old bad behavior.
By Dr. Matthew Prowler | March 12, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (7)
A (currently innocent) idiot
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger may have acted like an idiot, but the legal system, not Roger Goodell, should decide his fate.
By Robert Littal | March 12, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (9)
Rooneys will handle it
Through their ownership of the Steelers franchise, the Rooneys have displayed sound judgment in player management. The latest situation with their star quarterback will be no different.
By Dave Goldberg | March 12, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (4)
Wrong kind of excitement
The ongoing Ben Roethlisberger saga underlines what has been true for a very long time in the National Football League: Your quarterback is your most important player, and the fortunes of your team will rise and fall as his does.
By Doug Farrar | March 12, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (1)
Dansby is the man
In versatile linebacker Karlos Dansby, the Dolphins may have picked up the jewel of this year's free agent class.
By Doug Farrar | March 9, 2010; 01:18 AM ET | Comments (0)
Kampman bolsters Jags
Overshadowed by the Bears' signing of Julius Peppers, veteran pass rusher Aaron Kampman could be a better fit in Jacksonville.
By Dave Goldberg | March 9, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Trio of pass rushers top list
A pair of linebackers and one lineman not named Peppers are three of the best free agent signings so far.
By Matt Loede | March 9, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
New regime could spend wisely
If the new ownership is able to pursue free agents that will fortify the roster rather than just make headlines, the Redskins money could go farther than in years past.
By Leonard Shapiro | March 5, 2010; 12:01 AM ET | Comments (4)
Kids in a candy shop
In an uncapped year, the free-spending Redskins could raise the bar to a whole new level on the free agency market.
By Michael Kun | March 5, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (3)
Time for a new gameplan
Thursday's roster slashing could signal that the Redskins are finally ready to approach free agency with the goal of filling needs rather than making the big splash.
By Dave Goldberg | March 5, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Holes to fill
The Redskins have a number of holes to fill up and down the roster, and Daniel Snyder won't be afraid to break the bank to fill them with big name free agents.
By Sean McCann | March 5, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Financial security is paramount
Before changing the overtime structure, the NFL should focus on securing its financial future going forward.
By Chris Richardson | March 2, 2010; 02:23 PM ET | Comments (1)
Don't count on change
While the NFL would be wise to change its overtime format, don't expect the status quo to to be tweaked any time soon.
By Dave Goldberg | March 2, 2010; 08:41 AM ET | Comments (0)
Officiating consistency before OT reform
Before the NFL competition committee addresses overtime, it should fix the inconsistency in its officiating crews.
By Doug Farrar | March 2, 2010; 12:49 AM ET | Comments (1)
Bring back the 'D'
The NFL should amend its rules to allow defensive players to be more physical, then worry about its overtime format.
By Larry Brown | March 2, 2010; 12:01 AM ET | Comments (0)
Much ado about nothing
No matter how well the NFL Network covers the scouting combine, it's impossible to make a bunch of guys running around cones interesting.
By Jason Brewer | February 25, 2010; 11:01 PM ET | Comments (0)
Just ask the Falcons
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan is proof that the combine has value for NFL franchises, even if it seems over-hyped from a fan's perspective
By Anthony Stalter | February 25, 2010; 01:27 PM ET | Comments (0)
Fluff, fiction and hot air
Through all the hype produced by the NFL, the scouting combine is just a counterproductive waste of time.
By Brian Tarcy | February 25, 2010; 09:42 AM ET | Comments (0)
I've got grass to grow
Watching young kids running around in shorts and underwear is simply a waste of a weekend.
By Matt Loede | February 25, 2010; 12:05 AM ET | Comments (0)
A 4.6 says it all
Even for the serious draft fan, the problems with the combine can be summed up in all of 4.6 seconds.
By Dave Goldberg | February 25, 2010; 12:05 AM ET | Comments (0)
A piece of the puzzle
The combine is just one of four key events that help NFL franchises evaluate talent before the draft.
By Shawn Zobel | February 25, 2010; 12:05 AM ET | Comments (0)
Value beyond numbers
While NFL combine skill tests may have little value, the time team officials are allotted to spend with potential draft picks make it worthwhile.
By Joel Thorman | February 25, 2010; 12:03 AM ET | Comments (0)
Is the combine worth watching?
Is the NFL scouting combine worth watching?
By Reader Poll | February 25, 2010; 12:01 AM ET | Comments (0)
A waste of time
The NFL scouting combine may have some worth to talent evaluators, but I can think of at least 10 things I'd rather do than watch.
By Michael Kun | February 25, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Is LT done?
Does LaDainian Tomlinson have enough left in the tank to help a team?
By Reader Poll | February 23, 2010; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
We're talking about cheating?
Athletes shouldn't carry the burden of perfection. We're talking about cheating here!
By Robert Littal | February 19, 2010; 11:57 AM ET | Comments (2)
Actions speak louder
Rehearsed apologies mean little compared to actions following transgressions.
By Dawn Knight | February 19, 2010; 08:41 AM ET | Comments (0)
Apologies mean nothing
Mea culpas by athletes mean nothing to me.
By Dave Goldberg | February 19, 2010; 06:21 AM ET | Comments (6)
Katrina not enough
But it's not the most significant Super Bowl. Not even in the top five.
By Les Carpenter | February 10, 2010; 12:17 PM ET | Comments (15)
Most significant Super Bowl ever?
How does XLIV stack up against other great Super Bowls? Vote now...
By Reader Poll | February 10, 2010; 12:10 PM ET | Comments (0)
Keep belief off the field
Much like church and State, I'm happy to keep my preaching and my football as far apart as possible.
By Dan Levy | February 1, 2010; 12:43 PM ET | Comments (1)
Shock value
These pathways are largely modulated by dopamine, and are also responsible for the pleasurable effects of 'high-reward' stimuli, such as drugs, sex and gambling.
By Dr. Matthew Prowler | January 25, 2010; 11:03 PM ET | Comments (2)
Embrace transparency
It is in the best interest of the BCS to create a system that the average citizen believes is as open, fair and balanced as it possibly can be.
By Jason Maloni | January 7, 2010; 12:33 AM ET | Comments (4)
Ivory tower idiocy
The BCS could be remedied so easily it makes you wonder how some of these genius college presidents ever made it through freshman English.
By Leonard Shapiro | January 6, 2010; 03:24 PM ET | Comments (4)
Reward the champion, not a media darling
Until the NCAA is willing to devise a playoff system, however, college football will continue to be wracked with controversy.
By Rob Rang | January 6, 2010; 03:17 PM ET | Comments (6)
BCS too greedy
There is no longer any good reason not to have a college football playoff -- except that the BCS conferences get rich on the current system.
By Michael Oriard | January 6, 2010; 03:17 PM ET | Comments (3)
Tournament Bowling
In all sports, the playoffs are all about excitement. People would watch the games leading up to the Championship Game if they actually meant something.
By Shawn Zobel | January 6, 2010; 03:02 PM ET | Comments (1)
Tanking the line
Making a line on these games, it becomes a difficult chore because I don't have a complete handle on who is going to play and for how long.
By Johnny Avello | January 2, 2010; 03:13 PM ET | Comments (0)
Snub list best part of Pro Bowl
The Pro Bowl is like your mom buying you a fake Voltron set when you were a kid -- the only fun part is complaining about it.
By Jim McCormick | December 30, 2009; 02:59 PM ET | Comments (0)
Pro Bowl voting is silly
One glaring omission: London Fletcher, the Redskins' middle linebacker, who's played 12 excellent seasons without making a Pro Bowl
By Dave Goldberg | December 30, 2009; 09:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Gonzo, Smith snubbed
Only Atlanta tight end Tony Gonzalez and New Orleans defensive end Will Smith's have legitimate gripes with Pro Bowl voters.
By Rob Rang | December 29, 2009; 08:44 AM ET | Comments (0)
Trickle down equality
There is no doubt, in my mind, that many NFL teams treat the Rooney Rule as a formality but it still has value.
By Adam Hoff | December 18, 2009; 10:49 AM ET | Comments (2)
Worth keeping
Until some ideal time, the NFL needs it. As it trickles down to the NCAA, so much the better.
By Dave Goldberg | December 18, 2009; 10:42 AM ET | Comments (0)
You can't force equality
The Rooney Rule represents a great idea in terms of creating equality, but it does little in actuality.
By H. Gore | December 18, 2009; 10:29 AM ET | Comments (5)
Value in debate
Diversifying front offices is going to remain a slow, frustrating process, but at least the NFL has a process in place.
By Michael Oriard | December 18, 2009; 10:07 AM ET | Comments (0)
Know when to walk away, know when to run
I think the wise professional and medical recommendation would be for Brian Westbrook to call it quits this season.
By Dr. A. Brion Gardner | December 16, 2009; 10:56 AM ET | Comments (0)
There's only one madness
Sure, the scramble for final NFL playoff positions can be intense, but it's not March Madness (copyright NCAA, CBS, CocaCola and 384 other corporations). Why, you ask? It's a simple game of numbers and the underdog.
By Cameron Smith | December 10, 2009; 09:04 AM ET | Comments (0)
NFL dominates
I love March Madness, but it doesn't hold a candle to the NFL games that have playoff implications.
By Anthony Stalter | December 9, 2009; 11:27 AM ET | Comments (0)
March by a nose
After lots of stewing, I come down on the side of college basketball
By Liz Clarke | December 9, 2009; 09:58 AM ET | Comments (0)
Madness excites
The NFL is my wife and the other sports are like my Tiger mistresses.
By Robert Littal | December 9, 2009; 09:56 AM ET | Comments (0)
You must be Mad
The NCAA basketball tournament flat out dominates for a full month.
By Leonard Shapiro | December 9, 2009; 09:56 AM ET | Comments (0)
March Madness vs. NFL December
Which is better, NCAA March Madness or the NFL in December? Vote now.
By Reader Poll | December 9, 2009; 09:35 AM ET | Comments (0)
Bubble's already burst
The playoff picture appears to be pretty well set, but I'm wrong more often than I'm right. So, look for change.
By Dave Goldberg | November 30, 2009; 11:55 AM ET | Comments (0)
Tradition over money
To even think about taking the annual Thanksgiving games away from the Lions or the Cowboys is just wrong.
By Sean Yuille | November 26, 2009; 08:40 AM ET | Comments (0)
Pass the Alka Seltzer
As a veteran football writer, I would have preferred having the NFL take the damned day off to begin with.
By Leonard Shapiro | November 26, 2009; 08:23 AM ET | Comments (1)
Don't mess with tradition
The Lions and Cowboys have always hosted T-Day football contests - and they always should.
By Ken Palmer | November 25, 2009; 12:40 PM ET | Comments (1)
Hardly an advantage
When I played for the Kansas City Chiefs, we played Detroit on Thanksgiving in 1971, and it felt more like interference with a family Thanksgiving than a privilege.
By Michael Oriard | November 25, 2009; 12:30 PM ET | Comments (0)
Tryptophan TV
The Detroit Lions on TV is a silly tradition, but I am glad the Pilgrims thought of it when they were inventing Thanksgiving.
By Brian Tarcy | November 25, 2009; 12:10 PM ET | Comments (0)
Keep the tradition, dump the blowouts
It isn't time to update the annual Thanksgiving games, but maybe it's time to reevaluate the matchups provided by the schedule makers.
By Brandon Benson | November 25, 2009; 08:36 AM ET | Comments (3)
Call me a traditionalist
Our sports traditions are what ties generations together, let's keep them sacred.
By Dan Levy | November 25, 2009; 08:35 AM ET | Comments (0)
Look to the NBA
This is one tradition that needs to go, and it's time to start a new one taking a page from professional basketball.
By Michael Kun | November 25, 2009; 07:48 AM ET | Comments (2)
Dump Detroit
The NFL needs to rotate the Thanksgiving game among all teams much the way it does now with the London game.
By Les Carpenter | November 25, 2009; 07:30 AM ET | Comments (3)
A day for family
Thanksgiving is family day. So who plays? I really don't care.
By Dave Goldberg | November 25, 2009; 07:20 AM ET | Comments (1)
Players' Choice
If the NFL were to continue to soften the rules I can guarantee you they will lose a part of their audience.
By Robert Littal | October 28, 2009; 03:30 PM ET | Comments (3)
My Fault
Take a survey of how sports is marketed and you will find violence.
By Brian Tarcy | October 28, 2009; 10:13 AM ET | Comments (0)
Don't Need Concussions
Rule modifications and equipment modifications won't make football worse -- the heightened interest in head injuries will lead to a better product on the field.
By Dr. A. Brion Gardner | October 28, 2009; 09:38 AM ET | Comments (1)
Fans Must Fight Back
Stand up loudly against the mistreatment of old NFL heroes. Only until you protest, will changes be made.
By Brent Boyd | October 28, 2009; 06:55 AM ET | Comments (2)
Football Hurts
The only way to end concussions in the NFL is to shut down the league.
By Dave Goldberg | October 28, 2009; 06:21 AM ET | Comments (8)
Modern Gladiators
It's hard to imagine a Hank Williams Jr's: "Are you ready for some Flag Football? "
By Dr. Matthew Prowler | October 28, 2009; 06:10 AM ET | Comments (5)
Call me an NFL Rubbernecker
So we watch for big hits? Players know what they are getting themselves into when they strap on a helmet.
By Dan Levy | October 28, 2009; 06:07 AM ET | Comments (8)
Leadership Needed From 280 Park Ave
Only by showing leadership can the NFL win this one. In sports, as in business, sometimes that's a tall order.
By Jason Maloni | October 28, 2009; 06:04 AM ET | Comments (0)
It Looks Pretty Even At This Stage
Top to bottom, the AFC is probably the better conference but it isn't dominant.
By Dan Levy | October 26, 2009; 02:37 PM ET | Comments (0)
Blame Andy Reid
Reid and Donovan McNabb destabilized the entire NFL with their inability to beat a bad team.
By Sean McCann | October 26, 2009; 02:34 PM ET | Comments (0)
Super Bowl in January, Not October
If we have learned anything over the past few seasons, it is that the beginning of the year means very little.
By Rob Rang | October 26, 2009; 12:07 PM ET | Comments (0)
AFC the Cream
There's no doubt that the AFC is the better conference.
By Shawn Zobel | October 26, 2009; 11:45 AM ET | Comments (2)
NFC Down, Not Out
Don't fret, the NFC is in good hands.
By Sean Moroney | October 26, 2009; 10:52 AM ET | Comments (0)
NFC Still Supreme
AFC Dominance? You can't be serious.
By Dave Goldberg | October 26, 2009; 09:38 AM ET | Comments (3)
Too Early to Tell
It's best to wait and see how the season plays out before judging the superiority of this or that conference.
By Doug Farrar | October 26, 2009; 09:28 AM ET | Comments (0)
Does the NFC Stand a Chance?
Does the NFC stand a chance in 2009, or is the AFC too stacked with talent? Vote now.
By Reader Poll | October 26, 2009; 09:01 AM ET | Comments (0)
When Cousins Marry
The Wildcat is a niche offense that will succeed on certain occasions but it's not the way to build a team.
By Brian Tarcy | September 30, 2009; 01:35 PM ET | Comments (0)
A Vain Dalliance
The wildcat is a hollow prophet, not the messiah that will liberate football coaches everywhere.
By Sean McCann | September 30, 2009; 12:14 PM ET | Comments (0)
The Madden Solution
Look to the video games to stop the Dolphins' single wing formation. Hint: 46 Cover 2...
By Adam Hoff | September 30, 2009; 06:51 AM ET | Comments (0)
Wildcat's No Gimmick
The Wildcat is here to stay, folks -- to claim it's a "gimmick" only makes you look naïve and ignorant.
By Matt Infante | September 30, 2009; 06:49 AM ET | Comments (2)
Oakland Fires Everyone
After firing his players and most of the Raiders organization, Davis said he would hold open tryouts and remake his roster.
By John Morgan | September 28, 2009; 09:42 AM ET | Comments (0)
Speak up Players
I wish athletes would occasionally forget about what it might cost them in the bank account and offer up a well thought out, informed opinion, like Arthur Ashe did.
By Leonard Shapiro | September 25, 2009; 03:36 PM ET | Comments (0)
Lots to Say, Not Much Play
It's refreshing to encounter an NFL player that actually has something to say. Too bad Ayanbadejo mostly rides the bench.
By Josh Zerkle | September 25, 2009; 02:34 PM ET | Comments (5)
Athletes Have the Right
Free speech doesn't decrease as a person's fame increases
By Doug Farrar | September 25, 2009; 10:16 AM ET | Comments (1)
Watch What You Say
Say your piece, but do so humbly, respectfully, and with the knowledge that the words may live longer than you'd like.
By Nathan Whitaker | September 25, 2009; 06:15 AM ET | Comments (10)
Winning Gay Fans
Brendon Ayanbadejo of the Ravens is a new gay fan favorite for his pro-gay marriage stance (his nipple ring doesn't hurt).
By Jim Buzinski | September 25, 2009; 06:11 AM ET | Comments (1)
Hardly Dangerous Speech
What's strange in this whole affair is the fact that an NFL player's support for gay marriage should be in any way controversial.
By Michael Oriard | September 25, 2009; 06:03 AM ET | Comments (0)
Free Speech Isn't Cliche
Our country's foundation is the free exchange of ideas. Just because more people may hear those ideas when they come from athletes, does not mean athletes should be censored.
By Dawn Knight | September 25, 2009; 06:03 AM ET | Comments (1)
Suck It Up, Michael
All the leverage Crabtree thought he had is now gone.
By Larry Brown | September 23, 2009; 11:46 AM ET | Comments (0)
Don't Get #Crabtreed
Smarten up Michael because in the NFL it doesn't take long to go from Twitter joke to forgotten.
By Robert Littal | September 23, 2009; 11:13 AM ET | Comments (2)
Lacking Common Cents
Being known as the David Jonathan Drew of the NFL is going to suck for Crabtree.
By H. Gore | September 23, 2009; 09:35 AM ET | Comments (6)
Grow Up, Crabtree
He has a chance to redeem himself with the league and its fans, but he is down by seven with two minutes left on the clock.
By Jason Maloni | September 23, 2009; 02:10 AM ET | Comments (3)
NFL Doesn't Help Books
The League could always do better job but I don't believe the NFL is interested in accommodating sports books or any Fantasy Leagues.
By Johnny Avello | September 18, 2009; 02:41 PM ET | Comments (0)
Play It Safe
Maybe it is better to only play those players who can do so without pain or potential for re-injury.
By Mackie Shilstone | September 18, 2009; 07:41 AM ET | Comments (0)
Hiding Behind HIPAA
The NFL and individual teams manipulate the injury report policy for their own benefit, then hide behind HIPAA.
By Dr. A. Brion Gardner | September 18, 2009; 07:40 AM ET | Comments (8)
Backing Up Controversy
I said a few weeks ago that there will be a quarterback controversy in Philadelphia this season. I just didn't know it would be the backups.
By Dan Levy | September 15, 2009; 09:56 AM ET | Comments (0)
The Bird (& Rib) Cage
The defense might carry them to the playoffs, but they need McNabb to win when they get there.
By Zach Leibowitz | September 14, 2009; 08:27 AM ET | Comments (0)
Depends on Degree
The time he misses will depend on the severity.
By Dr. A. Brion Gardner | September 11, 2009; 11:25 AM ET | Comments (0)
Bank on Big Ben
It was obvious last night that Ben Roethlisberger is more valuable to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
By Shawn Zobel | September 11, 2009; 12:49 AM ET | Comments (0)
Death Not an Inherent Risk
Despite Carson Palmer's comments, I disagree 100 percent with the notion that death is an inherent risk in football.
By Roman Oben | September 9, 2009; 02:31 PM ET | Comments (2)
A Death Would Change Football
If a death were to occur it could result in a dramatic shift in NFL policy.
By Jason Maloni | September 9, 2009; 11:51 AM ET | Comments (3)
Expect a Football Fatality
I believe Palmer is right. One day the NFL will experience a death on the field
By Josh Kirkendall | September 9, 2009; 10:00 AM ET | Comments (2)
Dying From Football
What kills and maims in football is just the underside of what makes NFL football the country's favorite spectator sport.
By Michael Oriard | September 9, 2009; 08:12 AM ET | Comments (0)
The Quick and the Dead
With the speed of today's players, it is not out of the realm of possibility that a death could happen in a game.
By Joe Reedy | September 9, 2009; 08:03 AM ET | Comments (0)
Football Kills, Deal With It
If they don't want to put their lives in danger, they can choose a different line of work.
By Larry Brown | September 9, 2009; 08:02 AM ET | Comments (0)
New Rules to Stop Death
It's necessary to adjust the rules to compensate for the "athletic freaks" we see out on the field now.
By David Fucillo | September 9, 2009; 07:59 AM ET | Comments (0)
Reality Over Fantasy
I'm frequently asked which is more important, and I say it's not even close. I'd take a victory by my real team over a fantasy win any day.
By Gene Wang | September 8, 2009; 03:05 AM ET | Comments (1)
Blame Baseball
There's just about as much interest in fantasy football as there is in real football because of America's love for the individual.
By Doug Farrar | September 7, 2009; 01:10 PM ET | Comments (0)
Stay True to the Game
Hold true to your real team when it matters least, and you will cherish it that much more when it matters most.
By Emil Steiner | September 7, 2009; 12:54 PM ET | Comments (3)
Fantasy vs. Reality
Has fantasy football become more popular than the real thing? Vote now.
By Reader Poll | September 7, 2009; 12:53 PM ET | Comments (1)
This Ain't No Fantasy
Is fantasy football more popular than the NFL? Sure, in Nerdville.
By Brian Tarcy | September 7, 2009; 12:17 PM ET | Comments (1)
It's All About the Benjamins
Billion dollar stadiums. One-hundred million dollar contracts. Million dollar endorsement deals. You see a pattern here?
By Gene Wang | September 5, 2009; 10:00 AM ET | Comments (2)
Snyder's Reign of Error
Congratulations Daniel Snyder, you are now the worst owner in the NFL.
By Leonard Shapiro | September 4, 2009; 03:50 PM ET | Comments (25)
Just Say "No" to a Lockout
Nearly half a century of NFL achievement may all fall by the wayside if players get locked out after the 2010 season.
By Peter Schaffer | September 4, 2009; 08:21 AM ET | Comments (5)
Fans Are Addicts
NFL fan will always be there to line the pockets and increase the bottom line of the NFL owners.
By David Hill | September 4, 2009; 07:25 AM ET | Comments (3)
Prettier Than Losing
Take the "it's degrading to women" and "it's inappropriate for children" arguments and shove it.
By Sarah Schorno | September 3, 2009; 12:30 PM ET | Comments (14)
Are We Serious Here?
The question was, should the NFL get rid of cheerleaders? And that's just a silly question.
By Dan Levy | September 2, 2009; 11:34 AM ET | Comments (1)
Cheer For What?
The NFL game should never need cheerleaders to better sell its product -- just ask the Pitt
By Dan Parker | September 2, 2009; 07:58 AM ET | Comments (15)
More Than Short Skirts
According to my husband there are four things men love: beer, food, live sports and women, and the NFL combines all four.
By Dawn Knight | September 2, 2009; 07:55 AM ET | Comments (30)
Cost Cutting Cheer
If a few frills have to go so more people decide the price of admission is worth it, then so be it.
By Jason Maloni | September 2, 2009; 07:42 AM ET | Comments (8)
Bears Want Them
Coming from a team that doesn't have cheerleaders, let me simply say, we want them.
By Adam Tracey | September 2, 2009; 07:31 AM ET | Comments (8)
Who's Your Quarterback?
Vote on your choice for steadiest signal caller
By Reader Poll | August 31, 2009; 08:52 AM ET | Comments (2)
P. Manning Is the Steadiest
When it comes to durability, stability and reliability, Peyton Manning really has no peer.
By Gene Wang | August 31, 2009; 06:53 AM ET | Comments (1)
Brady's Still the Best
All things being equal, if I have Tom Brady, I'm taking the Lombardi Trophy home.
By Doug Farrar | August 31, 2009; 06:20 AM ET | Comments (0)
Statisically Peyton Manning
When you break down the numbers Peyton Manning comes out on top.
By Joe Baker | August 31, 2009; 06:03 AM ET | Comments (0)
Rate Michael Vick's Debut
Rate the performance of Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback Michael Vick in his debut against Jacksonville Jaguars.
By Reader Poll | August 28, 2009; 04:03 PM ET | Comments (10)
A Good First Step
The experiment wasn't a failure right off the bat. And right now, that's all we can ask.
By Doug Farrar | August 28, 2009; 09:29 AM ET | Comments (0)
Vick Baffles in Eagles Debut
Vick's presence seemed to slow the Eagles' offense more than confuse the Jacksonville Jaguars' defense.
By H. Gore | August 28, 2009; 09:26 AM ET | Comments (3)
Vick on the Right Track
For a player who hasn't played in two years, and for one that is playing with a new team, Vick had a good night.
By Shawn Zobel | August 28, 2009; 09:14 AM ET | Comments (1)
Vick Issue Still in Doubt
The issue's still in doubt, but that's a good thing for Vick -- he didn't screw up. In fact he could be great.
By Emil Steiner | August 28, 2009; 06:40 AM ET | Comments (0)
Vick Takes the Phans
Philadelphia may not have a QB controversy on its sideline, but it has one in the stands.
By Sean McCann | August 28, 2009; 06:37 AM ET | Comments (2)
So Far So Good
Philadelphia Eagles fans are pleased, but we need to see more of Vick to know whether he's really ready for the NFL.
By Jason Brewer | August 28, 2009; 06:23 AM ET | Comments (1)
Raise the Roof
Jerry wouldn't move the toilet paper dispenser from one side of the handicapped stall to the other without a king-sized Texas tussle.
By Josh Zerkle | August 26, 2009; 11:46 AM ET | Comments (1)
A Modest Proposal
For the man that always wants to hold people accountable, Roger Goodell has seemingly got himself and the NFL into a pickle.
By Neil Jacobs | August 26, 2009; 11:25 AM ET | Comments (5)
Who Will Blink? U2
Jerry Jones is a lot of things, but he ain't stupid... especially when it comes to money.
By Dan Levy | August 26, 2009; 11:14 AM ET | Comments (1)
Mr. Jones, Pull Up This Wall
The scoreboard exists to provide a better view of the game, not to affect it.
By Rafael Vela | August 26, 2009; 07:58 AM ET | Comments (6)
In Dallas Size Matters
If I'm a receiver in Dallas, I'm running sideline routes all day just to stay out from under that thing.
By Michael Kun | August 26, 2009; 07:29 AM ET | Comments (4)
Don't Kick Jones
Asking Jones to pay to fix a part of the stadium that conforms to league rules would be tantamount to asking a consumer to pay for faulty brakes approved by auto inspectors.
By Gene Wang | August 26, 2009; 06:44 AM ET | Comments (4)
Have Goodell's Policies Helped Clean Up the NFL?
A swing and a miss for the Ginger Hammer?
By Reader Poll | August 21, 2009; 05:09 PM ET | Comments (0)
Addressing the Problem, Not the Solution
Assuming that Roger Goodell's increased discipline changes the way players act is like saying that the rooster crowing changes the way the sun comes up.
By Doug Farrar | August 21, 2009; 01:15 PM ET | Comments (0)
Hammer Time!
With off field drama and unpredictable legal consequences forcing Goodell's hand, he's playing his cards right.
By Jason Maloni | August 21, 2009; 01:13 PM ET | Comments (2)
Not Strict Enough
Until a standard list of punishments for crimes exists, players won't see the policy as a detriment.
By Les Carpenter | August 21, 2009; 12:39 PM ET | Comments (2)
Give Goodell a Raise
Or take him to see "The Hangover." I'll bet that would get him to smile and forget about the upcoming lockout.
By Michael Kun | August 21, 2009; 12:26 PM ET | Comments (1)
Jets Fans Be Mad!
Favre jerked the Jets around just as much as he jerked the Packers around. Only the Packers will be a better team despite Favre's antics.
By Michael Kun | August 20, 2009; 02:53 AM ET | Comments (4)
Favre the Betrayer
His legacy will always be tarnished by his actions at the end of his career.
By Brandon Benson | August 19, 2009; 01:04 PM ET | Comments (5)
Ego Gone Wild
How many Hall of Fame inductees have been booed as they enter Canton? This could be the first.
By Jason Maloni | August 19, 2009; 10:48 AM ET | Comments (0)
Feeling Betrayed
Now, we wish him the worst of luck, and if all goes well, a lifetime of regret.
By Jeff Nelson | August 18, 2009; 08:43 PM ET | Comments (1)
Favre Helps Vikes
Childress is gutless for allowing Brett to dictate when he showed up to play. That said, from a pure football standpoint, Favre makes the Vikings better.
By Anthony Stalter | August 18, 2009; 03:18 PM ET | Comments (10)
Committee of Diversity
The key to success in today's running game is to have a committee of running backs with different styles.
By Chris Gates | August 17, 2009; 11:18 AM ET | Comments (1)
Blame Mike Shanahan
Not only can Mike Shanahan be blamed for the downfall of the Denver Broncos, fantasy owners should blame him for ruining the feature back.
By Dan Levy | August 17, 2009; 06:11 AM ET | Comments (0)
Goodell Overbearing
What the cases of Vick, Stallworth, Burress, Jones and others show is that Roger Goodell is currently a man without constraints -- but that might soon come to an end.
By Neil Jacobs | August 16, 2009; 10:39 PM ET | Comments (0)
Vick Cap Analysis
The contract structure agreed to by Vick and the Eagles seems to be mutually beneficial.
By J. I. Halsell | August 15, 2009; 02:12 PM ET | Comments (0)
My Head Is Spinning
Great for the offense, offensive for animal lovers... I'm torn.
By Emil Steiner | August 14, 2009; 05:20 AM ET | Comments (17)
Eagles Fit Vick
The Birds got what Vick needs, and they play in Philly, a town with a history of embracing the hardscrabble black athlete.
By David Aldridge | August 14, 2009; 03:29 AM ET | Comments (15)
Tough Landing Spot
If Vick's looking for that hard edge and an environment that will neither bend nor break, Philly's just the place he's looking for.
By Michael Wilbon | August 14, 2009; 12:24 AM ET | Comments (4)
PETA Clips Birds
Eagles fans can do is cross their fingers and hope that they won't ever have to explain to their sons and daughters what a "rape rack" is.
By Dan Shannon | August 14, 2009; 12:04 AM ET | Comments (8)
It Better Work
I've been the first to say that Vick deserves a chance to play, I just never thought it'd be in my town.
By Dan Levy | August 13, 2009; 11:59 PM ET | Comments (6)
He's a Player, Not a QB
Vick is an option-read quarterback - no more, no less.
By Doug Farrar | August 13, 2009; 11:55 PM ET | Comments (1)
From Jail Bird to Eagle
The distractions will far outweigh any production he provides the team.
By Zach Leibowitz | August 13, 2009; 11:35 PM ET | Comments (1)
Enough Punishment
He has been punished by the justice system, he has been punished by the NFL and more importantly his conscious will be punishing him for the rest of his life.
By Robert Littal | August 13, 2009; 12:44 PM ET | Comments (5)
Who Vouches for This Man?
Tony Dungy is a good friend to have but that's not the same thing as an owner, standing in front of a bank of snapping cameras, with his hand out saying "I trust you."
By Jason Maloni | August 11, 2009; 12:56 PM ET | Comments (9)
Vick Owes Dungy and All of Us
it's safe to say that when (not if) an NFL team takes a chance on Vick, he'll owe it entirely to the Dungy name behind him.
By Doug Farrar | August 11, 2009; 11:25 AM ET | Comments (3)
PETA Says No
We hope that Dungy will focus on the future of the NFL by backing our efforts to have the League add "cruelty to animals" to its personal-conduct policy
By Dan Shannon | August 11, 2009; 11:20 AM ET | Comments (23)
Just Crazy Enough To Work
On paper, the pairing of Tony Dungy and Michael Vick seems less likely than Shaq and Ben Stein starring in a mock buddy comedy to pitch cell phones.
By Dan Levy | August 11, 2009; 07:40 AM ET | Comments (1)
The NFL's Odd Couple
Strangest pair since Martin Luther King, Jr. and Civil War General Robert E. Lee or Saul Bellow and Josef Mengele.
By Michael Kun | August 11, 2009; 07:38 AM ET | Comments (6)
Is Dungy Too Loyal?
That Dungy agreed to mentor Vick doesn't say much about how far Vick had progressed, only that Dungy saw him as in need of help.
By Joe Baker | August 11, 2009; 07:09 AM ET | Comments (0)
Openess Yes, Fan Votes No
Let's leave important votes to the professionals -- those involved in voting the for Pro Football Hall of Fame are some of the best writers in the country.
By Dan Levy | August 9, 2009; 09:28 PM ET | Comments (1)
Fans Don't Deserve Vote
Fans are, by their very nature, biased and ill-informed, sometimes even face painted.
By Josh Zerkle | August 8, 2009; 11:14 AM ET | Comments (2)
Experts Know Best
When it comes to Canton and the HOF selection process, an aristocracy works just fine, if you ask me.
By Jamie De Giorgio | August 8, 2009; 10:54 AM ET | Comments (1)
No Room in Canton for Sanjaya
The HoF is an important part of an athlete's legacy and that decision is best left to 44 sports writers rather than the same millions of voters who let Sanjaya Malakar finish 7th in the 2006 edition of American Idol.
By Jason Maloni | August 7, 2009; 07:40 PM ET | Comments (0)
More Transparency, Please
As a longtime Pro Football Hall of Fame voter, I've also been a longtime advocate for more transparency in the voting process.
By Leonard Shapiro | August 7, 2009; 07:00 PM ET | Comments (1)
I Want a Golden Ticket
Given the amount of money we pump into the NFL, surely Goodell wouldn't want to begrudge true fans a little taste.
By Emil Steiner | August 7, 2009; 06:41 PM ET | Comments (2)
Canton is Fair
Of all the selection processes, the Pro Football Hall of Fame's is one of the most fair.
By Joe Reedy | August 7, 2009; 06:25 PM ET | Comments (0)
Why So Secret?
It's only equitable for Hall of Fame voters to be held just as accountable as the athletes about whom they wrote.
By Gene Wang | August 7, 2009; 06:13 PM ET | Comments (1)
Eli So Not Worth It
The Giants would have renewed his contract in the spring if not now, they could have saved themselves a few dollars by waiting.
By Sarah Schorno | August 6, 2009; 05:31 PM ET | Comments (1)
Giants Could Have Done Worse
The Giants have decided that, in these uncertain times, Eli is their top-half guy. They could do worse.
By Sean McCann | August 6, 2009; 03:32 PM ET | Comments (0)
Capping Eli's Mega Deal
It's definitely a lucrative deal, but it may not necessarily be the market setting contract that it's being made out to be.
By J. I. Halsell | August 6, 2009; 11:02 AM ET | Comments (4)
Eli's Giant Pay Day
Eli is the right quarterback for the New York Giants for the next seven years. That makes me happy, regardless of his paycheck.
By Edward Valentine | August 6, 2009; 10:09 AM ET | Comments (1)
Eli Over Burdened
If he remains on the precipice of greatness, where he currently resides, all he'll be is yet another big ticket item that didn't nearly deliver up to what was expected of him.
By Ken Palmer | August 6, 2009; 10:05 AM ET | Comments (1)
Get a Clue, Plax
But the greatest obstacle to Burress' return is not Morgenthau or Commissioner Roger Goodell, but Burress himself.
By Jason Maloni | August 4, 2009; 01:40 PM ET | Comments (0)
Punish Stupidity
Plax let his gun license lapse along with his judgment that night.
By Cindy Kagan | August 4, 2009; 12:00 PM ET | Comments (11)
Truth Should've Set Plax Free
Compared to Donte Stallworth who killed a man, how long can you keep Plax out?
By Ken Palmer | August 4, 2009; 09:30 AM ET | Comments (9)
Shooting Self Could Be A Life Sentence
His real crime was his choice of wardrobe.
By Dan Levy | August 4, 2009; 09:03 AM ET | Comments (0)
Stupidity's Not Criminal
Burress is being punished by our backward legal system for being stupid, arrogant and naïve; not for being a criminal.
By Robert Littal | August 4, 2009; 07:25 AM ET | Comments (15)
Talent Always Gets Another Chance
Even if he does play again, it will never be the same for Plax.
By Edward Valentine | August 4, 2009; 06:42 AM ET | Comments (0)
PEDs Don't an All-Pro Make
Steroids can't take you from a special teams contributor to a Pro Bowl linebacker. Getting bigger, faster and stronger won't make you catch or tackle better or throw a perfect spiral.
By Roman Oben | July 31, 2009; 02:53 PM ET | Comments (8)
PEDs Don't Taint NFL
Baseball is a game of numbers, football is a game of dominance, sacrifice and dedication to the team.
By Les Carpenter | July 31, 2009; 09:50 AM ET | Comments (1)
Should a Positive PED Test Preclude Hall of Fame Entry?
Readers decide whether failing drug tests should affect an NFL players eligibility for Canton induction.
By Reader Poll | July 31, 2009; 08:09 AM ET | Comments (0)
Let 'em in!
In the NFL, there's none of the stigma attached to steroids.
By Dave Sheinin | July 31, 2009; 08:07 AM ET | Comments (0)
The StarCaps Problem
To hold players accountable to standards that are not clear and require judicial interpretation seems unfair.
By Mackie Shilstone | July 31, 2009; 07:24 AM ET | Comments (0)
Vick's Short Leash
At least 30 GMs will want him. The question is, how many are bold enough or charismatic enough to sell having him?
By Michael Wilbon | July 27, 2009; 09:54 PM ET | Comments (14)
Banner Lunacy
Every now and again, Joe Banner has an Al Davis moment. Don't be alarmed. It's a natural part of the aging process for an NFL executive.
By Sean McCann | July 27, 2009; 12:31 PM ET | Comments (0)
Don't Mess With Big Blue
Forget all this Eagles hype, the New York Giants have the best roster in the NFC.
By Edward Valentine | July 27, 2009; 08:59 AM ET | Comments (0)
Goodell Is All Business
Yes, Vick has certainly paid for his actions. Unfortunately for Goodell, not everyone sees it that way
By Sarah Schorno | July 24, 2009; 12:55 PM ET | Comments (3)
GoodNewz for Vick
Having served his time and jail, Vick has earned the right to petition the NFL for reinstatement.
By Jason Maloni | July 24, 2009; 12:31 PM ET | Comments (2)
Goodell, Don't Play Daddy
No suspension. No punishment. No banishment. Nothing should happen to Michael Vick now that he has finished his 23 month sentence for financing a dog fighting ring.
By Robert Littal | July 24, 2009; 11:57 AM ET | Comments (12)
Moon Most Underrated
He is the only player to be enshrined in both the CFL and NFL Hall of Fame. He is currently the only black quarterback to be enshrined in the NFL Hall of Fame. Like many before him, Warren Moon changed the game. Few, however, changed the college, CFL and NFL landscape along the way.
By Rob Rang | July 20, 2009; 01:35 PM ET | Comments (1)
The Four Horsemen of Longevity
Outside of special teams, here's my top four list for the NFL's Tom Watson Award
By Emil Steiner | July 20, 2009; 01:16 PM ET | Comments (0)
Jerry Rice Hands Down
Jerry Rice is the best player to ever play into his 40's.
By Shawn Zobel | July 20, 2009; 12:16 PM ET | Comments (0)
Full Moon
George Blanda may be widely regarded as the best over-40 football player of all-time, but I'm throwing another candidate into the discussion: Warren Moon.
By Gene Wang | July 20, 2009; 12:07 PM ET | Comments (0)
Two Raiders Lead the List
There are two Oakland Raiders who made perhaps the greatest strides past the age of 40 - George Blanda and Jerry Rice.
By Doug Farrar | July 20, 2009; 08:03 AM ET | Comments (0)
Dig the Fossil
The greatest senior citizen ever to play in the NFL has to be George "the Fossil" Blanda
By Peter Schaffer | July 20, 2009; 07:37 AM ET | Comments (1)
The Bennetts' Brand Takes a Dive
YouTube has its power - use it wisely - before diminishing a valued brand with a walk down memory lane in the cotton fields.
By Derede McAlpin | July 16, 2009; 12:59 PM ET | Comments (2)
Integrate the Black Olympics!
The fact that only African Americans were invited to compete in the "Black Olympics" makes me want to puke.
By Emil Steiner | July 16, 2009; 12:58 PM ET | Comments (0)
First Rule of Funny. Be Funny.
There wasn't anything remotely offensive in "Black Olympics" other than the complete lack of comedy.
By Dan Levy | July 16, 2009; 09:29 AM ET | Comments (1)
Ignorant or Uplifting?
Does Black Olympics prove that this generation is not haunted by racism, or that it is simply ignorant of history?
By Dawn Knight | July 16, 2009; 08:08 AM ET | Comments (4)
Just Not Funny
If you want a pass on edgy humor, you have to be funny. The "Black Olympics" video isn't humor or satire, it's crap.
By Gene Weingarten | July 16, 2009; 07:41 AM ET | Comments (6)
Ignorance Personified
No African-American with a functioning cerebrum would ever purposely compose such a self-degrading, self-hating piece of tripe and then present it to the world.
By Mike Freeman | July 16, 2009; 07:25 AM ET | Comments (35)
Chinese Olympics
Let's say I did a similar video with Timmy Chang that had chow mein eating, a math-off and dry cleaning, and we called it the Chinese Olympics. Would that be offensive to anyone?
By Gene Wang | July 16, 2009; 05:59 AM ET | Comments (3)
Language Barrier
Do we envision supportive tweets from the league's most loquacious 140-character author?
By Jim McCormick | July 10, 2009; 08:14 AM ET | Comments (0)
Mobile Revolution
McNair's success popularized the scrambling quarterback and opened the door for such players as Donovan McNabb and Michael Vick.
By Emil Steiner | July 6, 2009; 11:40 AM ET | Comments (1)
Wasted Money Is Funny, But Not When It's Ours
Will the rich get better? It doesn't seem to be the case.
By Dan Levy | July 3, 2009; 04:21 PM ET | Comments (0)
Win, Earn or Both?
It's important to appreciate that not all owners are obsessed with winning; some are more concerned with making money year over year.
By David Carter | July 3, 2009; 11:13 AM ET | Comments (0)
Gotta Spend (Smart) to Win
Teams that don't spend money on talent invariably will not win in the NFL, but it's up to fans to complain.
By Peter Schaffer | July 3, 2009; 10:15 AM ET | Comments (0)
Goodell Protects the Brand
There reason football keeps getting richer is that the NFL protects their product more aggressively than any other sports league.
By Jim McCormick | June 29, 2009; 05:41 PM ET | Comments (0)
Nothing's Fair in Fantasy Land
There is nothing fair about the NFL's personal conduct policy until you take into account that there is nothing realistic about the NFL.
By Emil Steiner | June 29, 2009; 03:34 PM ET | Comments (0)
Probe Helps Burress
Goodell is not only acting within his rights as commissioner, he's actually HELPING Burress by initiating the probe.
By Jason Maloni | June 29, 2009; 03:25 PM ET | Comments (0)
Consistency Wanted
It seems to me that Goodell bases the expediency with which he deals with a player's disciplinary issues on the interest teams have in that player.
By Doug Farrar | June 29, 2009; 03:24 PM ET | Comments (0)
The No Fair League
The NFL's disciplinary system is about as fair and objective as a tribunal in the Soviet Union.
By Peter Schaffer | June 29, 2009; 03:05 PM ET | Comments (0)
On the Right Path
Soccer has made nice strides in this country; the question is whether it can fulfill its massive potential, on and off the field.
By Steve Goff | June 26, 2009; 12:15 PM ET | Comments (12)
Structure v Fluidity. Grit v Pretense.
If the US Soccer team starts consistently winning on the world stage, people will come around.
By Dan Levy | June 26, 2009; 12:05 PM ET | Comments (25)
Familiarity Breeds a Disconnect?
People find more spectator sport value in the activities they can't do.
By Doug Farrar | June 26, 2009; 11:47 AM ET | Comments (22)
Soccer is UnAmerican
Soccer will never rise to the level of American Football in the eyes, hearts and minds of the vast majority of the American sporting public.
By Peter Schaffer | June 26, 2009; 11:31 AM ET | Comments (133)
Heed the Tailgation!
For the die hard fan - the lifeblood of any pro football organization - it's about community.
By Jason Maloni | June 24, 2009; 12:12 PM ET | Comments (0)
For Better or Worse
I don't know if this new system will make it all that better, but it sure won't make it worse, because only a massive layer of three-foot deep flaming Super Glue would make things worse.
By Dan Steinberg | June 24, 2009; 07:33 AM ET | Comments (1)
Goodell On Right Track
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell did exactly what he should have by issuing an indefinite suspension to Donte' Stallworth.
By Gene Wang | June 19, 2009; 07:39 AM ET | Comments (2)
Black Homophobia
Barack Obama achieving the presidency was easier than a gay NFL player coming out.
By Mike Freeman | June 18, 2009; 05:17 AM ET | Comments (4)
Not in the Locker Room
You can't compare an NFL locker room -- the ultimate macho, homophobic environment -- to a traditional work environment.
By Roman Oben | June 17, 2009; 03:46 PM ET | Comments (10)
Slight Movement
The needle has moved slightly, I think, on the issue of homosexuality in the league.
By Liz Clarke | June 17, 2009; 11:13 AM ET | Comments (1)
Someone Has to Break the Barrier
Gay rights in sports will happen as they happen in life -- gradually, and not without considerable struggle, or the courage of the people who dare to be first.
By Doug Farrar | June 17, 2009; 10:53 AM ET | Comments (1)
No, Until Yes.
The NFL isn't ready for an openly gay player. And you know what the only thing that can change that is? An openly gay player.
By Dan Levy | June 17, 2009; 08:53 AM ET | Comments (1)
Time Will Tell
Is the NFL ready for an openly gay player? Yes, no and maybe.
By Emil Steiner | June 17, 2009; 08:21 AM ET | Comments (0)
Come Out of the Dark Ages
It's been 30+ years since I came out, but if the NFL is not ready by now, it should be.
By David Kopay | June 17, 2009; 08:14 AM ET | Comments (4)
Bated Breath
The NFL might be moving at a glacial pace when it comes to accepting gays, but even glaciers eventually melt.
By Jim Buzinski | June 17, 2009; 07:26 AM ET | Comments (1)
We Need a Hero
Don't hold the NFL accountable when its players remain silent.
By Jason Maloni | June 17, 2009; 06:52 AM ET | Comments (2)
No "Gay" in "Team"
It's like having a woman on the team or having a woman in the shower. How can you keep your mind on the game?
By Kenneth Hutcherson | June 17, 2009; 06:36 AM ET | Comments (122)
Flooding the Zone
The biggest problem with football movies is that there are too many of them.
By C.J. Holley | June 15, 2009; 03:12 PM ET | Comments (0)
A Match Made in Hell
Because of their unique natures, football and film are about as compatible as Gloria Steinem and Al Bundy.
By Emil Steiner | June 15, 2009; 11:31 AM ET | Comments (1)
Most Sports Films Are Bad
Why are football movies so bad? Maybe it's because sports movies in general ain't so great.
By Desmond Bieler | June 15, 2009; 10:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
No Nuance in Football
Do filmmakers assume football fans can't appreciate a movie that involves nuance, suspense or actual acting?
By Liz Kelly | June 15, 2009; 08:34 AM ET | Comments (9)
The Truth Helps
So the rule of thumb for football films is to avoid fictional accounts of the sport. It's those movies that give the entire genre a bad name.
By Gene Wang | June 15, 2009; 08:12 AM ET | Comments (3)
The Dynamics Don't Fit
The primary problem with adapting fictional football stories to the big screen is that the real thing is simply better.
By Doug Farrar | June 15, 2009; 07:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Injuries Can't Close OTAs
Every year a prominent player is injured in the supposedly non-contact Organized Team Activities that occur throughout the "off-season," leading to a groundswell of support to eliminate the workouts entirely, or to at least redefine the "voluntary" nature of the workouts.
By Rob Rang | June 4, 2009; 03:16 PM ET | Comments (0)
A Necessary Evil
In the end, OTAs are a necessary evil for players and teams due to the inherent risk of injuries. The best way to proceed would be capping the number of veterans involved, and encouraging teams to use the practices to develop their younger talent.
By Peter Schaffer | June 4, 2009; 10:10 AM ET | Comments (1)
What's the Difference?
Tell any player on the bubble that a team activity isn't required, whether it's implied or not, and he's likely to laugh in your face. As the NFL moves toward creating a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (we hope), the difference should either be delineated or eliminated.
By Doug Farrar | June 4, 2009; 07:54 AM ET | Comments (0)
Chiefs Poised for Comeback
The Chiefs could benefit from the weakness of the AFC West and a dramatic infusion of talent at the two most important skill positions on offense: Quarterback and running back. That should make them playoff contenders from the get-go.
By Peter Schaffer | May 29, 2009; 10:18 AM ET | Comments (1)
Dysfunction Saves Saints
It's entirely possible that Matt Ryan could hit a sophomore slump in Atlanta. That Jake Delhomme is capable of stinking up the joint like he did in that unsightly playoff loss. That Tampa Bay with a new head coach and yet another new quarterback could fall by the wayside. All of this points to the Saints returning to the playoffs after taking a year off.
By C.J. Holley | May 29, 2009; 10:13 AM ET | Comments (0)
Chiefs Could Do It
New Kansas City Chiefs coach Todd Haley has two huge advantages in his corner: He has a team that has added veteran leaders, and his Chiefs will be playing in what looks like the NFL's worst division. That could set up a playoff run.
By Doug Farrar | May 29, 2009; 09:22 AM ET | Comments (0)
Continuity = Improvement
Tom Brady has the proper mix of talent, success, work ethic, humility and an ability to date super models, combined with a Hall of Fame coach and almost a complete veteran team. His own success, and that of his team, is all but a foregone conclusion.
By Peter Schaffer | May 28, 2009; 12:25 PM ET | Comments (1)
This Ain't 2007 Folks
Will the Patriots be good? Surely they will. If 2008 taught us anything, it's that Bill Belichick can still figure out how to adapt better than anyone else in the game. Can they be 2007-style perfect? Not a chance.
By Cameron Smith | May 28, 2009; 09:44 AM ET | Comments (0)
Fix the Rules
Instead of becoming more punitive, the league would do better to amend its rules to allow teams to pursue players about to become free agents as soon as the offseason begins.
By Gene Wang | May 26, 2009; 01:43 PM ET | Comments (0)
Crime, Penalties Stupid
I guess the reason why tampering is such a problem is because it starts a slippery slope. If it's ok the day before, then what stops it from being ok a week before, or a month before, or during the third Sunday of October. I don't get it.
By Dan Steinberg | May 26, 2009; 12:23 PM ET | Comments (0)
Tampering Impossible to Stop
Theoretically, the NFL should stop teams from tampering with players under contract with other clubs. In reality, however, without full disclosure of the conversations held, the league is going to have a difficult time proving when tampering actually occurs.
By Rob Rang | May 26, 2009; 11:26 AM ET | Comments (0)
Follow the NBA Role
For once, the NFL actually could learn something from another American professional sports league. And only the NBA has taken appropriately harsh measures to eliminate tampering from free agency.
By Cameron Smith | May 26, 2009; 11:25 AM ET | Comments (0)
Vick Deserves Opportunity
What would it say about the priorities of the league if Vick is treated worse for killing dogs than another human being -- as in the case of Leonard Little or Donte Stallworth.
By Rob Rang | May 21, 2009; 04:08 PM ET | Comments (0)
Who's the NFL Kidding?
Sports gambling, in the casinos in Vegas, online and on the street corner, is a part of the fabric of this country.
By Dan Levy | May 15, 2009; 08:38 AM ET | Comments (1)
Betting a Fine Line
The NFL needs to tacitly encourage wagering, while not officially endorsing it.
By David Carter | May 15, 2009; 06:40 AM ET | Comments (1)
Bet on It
Gambling, when properly regulated and controlled, is good for the NFL
By Peter Schaffer | May 15, 2009; 06:40 AM ET | Comments (1)
NFL Strikes Back
The NFL already has filed a legal brief with the state Supreme Court challenging the legalization.
By Mark Maske | May 15, 2009; 06:11 AM ET | Comments (0)
May 11th Winner: echovector
Seed the playoffs based on record. It's absurd that last year two teams with great records in tough divisions lost on the road to mediocre teams from lousy divisions.
By TOP COMMENTER | May 11, 2009; 06:32 PM ET | Comments (1)
No drama in OT
Let's take the anti- out of the climax of NFL overtimes.
By Jim McCormick | May 11, 2009; 02:09 PM ET | Comments (4)
The Right to Choose
Why not give the defense the option of moving back the ball or moving the chains forward?
By Gene Wang | May 11, 2009; 01:13 PM ET | Comments (1)
Bring Back the Ickey Shuffle
Let's get creative here NFL. Tie in a sponsorship deal with the TV networks to market the celebration.
By Dan Levy | May 11, 2009; 12:28 PM ET | Comments (3)
Too Much Pass Interference
Why not just have the college rule, where the penalty for DPI is either 15 yards from the line of scrimmage, or a spot foul for plays that are less than 15 yards.
By Doug Farrar | May 11, 2009; 12:10 PM ET | Comments (1)
Dump the Refs
If a $50 GPS can help fans find their way out of Fed Ex Field parking lot, why is the NFL still relying on Ed Hochuli's eyes?
By Emil Steiner | May 11, 2009; 11:56 AM ET | Comments (3)
Is This It For Favre?
Brett Favre's "last stand" and Manny Ramirez issues with performance-enhancing drugs.
By Kornheiser & Wilbon | May 8, 2009; 12:46 PM ET | Comments (0)
A Helpless Hurt
We understand that the chief motivator here may just be love of the game. But we love the game too, and we don't want to see you trip in the outfield. Again.
By Jim McCormick | May 4, 2009; 01:29 PM ET | Comments (0)
Lower Everything Prices
Fans can't afford the luxury of going to a football game anymore. And frankly, that's what sports is... a luxury.
By Dan Levy | May 1, 2009; 11:20 AM ET | Comments (6)
Fans Don't Count
Lower prices would be good for fans, but not for the league, teams, and players. Those three entities have more actual power than the fans.
By Doug Farrar | May 1, 2009; 11:16 AM ET | Comments (2)
Price Is Right
If the NFL reduces its prices it will actually have the opposite effect on the economy.
By Peter Schaffer | May 1, 2009; 11:10 AM ET | Comments (10)
Leaders of the Pack
Despite the Packers' dismal 2008 season, there is potential for this team to rise to the top of the NFC class this season.
By Jim McCormick | April 27, 2009; 12:16 PM ET | Comments (0)
Two Likely Suitors
with an established QB mentor at the helm and an undeniably talented offensive line and receiving corps, Sanchez at 12 to Denver makes more sense then Matt Leinart at a keg party.
By Jim McCormick | April 22, 2009; 03:55 PM ET | Comments (0)
Madden Spans Generations, Platforms
John Madden is one of the most important men in the history of the game of football.
By Dan Levy | April 17, 2009; 09:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
Much More Than Xs and Os
The NFL could not have become the most profitable sports league in America without Madden
By Gene Wang | April 17, 2009; 03:27 AM ET | Comments (0)
The Genuine Article
Madden enjoyed the game as much as any viewer, and that excitement spilled over into his broadcasts.
By Doug Farrar | April 17, 2009; 03:20 AM ET | Comments (0)
The Genius of Madden
Madden had the ability to make every listener feel like he they were sitting next to each other on a couch eating pizza, drinking beer and watching Sunday ball.
By Peter Schaffer | April 17, 2009; 02:44 AM ET | Comments (0)
Millen on Madden
Matt Millen, the longtime NFL player, executive and broadcaster, says that John Madden changed football.
By Mark Maske | April 16, 2009; 05:23 PM ET | Comments (0)
He Made Us Much Smarter
Pass the turducken, Madden was a great teacher of the game.
By Cindy Boren | April 16, 2009; 02:25 PM ET | Comments (3)
Man, Myth, Video Game
John Madden is a legit legend in three arenas (four if you include eating).
By Jim McCormick | April 16, 2009; 02:17 PM ET | Comments (0)
Cleveland Doesn't Rock
Expect some somber, and hopefully entertaining, Mangini press conferences come early October.
By Jim McCormick | April 15, 2009; 07:06 PM ET | Comments (0)
Cowboys, Panthers
The schedule makers may have sealed the fate of Wade Phillips even prior to the season starting.
By Peter Schaffer | April 15, 2009; 10:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
We Miss You Harry
A part of my family died Monday. A part of all of our families.
By Dan Levy | April 14, 2009; 08:47 AM ET | Comments (0)
Facenda Still God
When it comes to the greatest of all time at what they did, the nod, with no disrespect, must go to the voice of God, John Facenda.
By Peter Schaffer | April 14, 2009; 02:19 AM ET | Comments (3)
Harry the K, Philly's treasure first
Harry Kalas was there for me one of the biggest days of my life, and for thousands of little days too.
By Sean McCann | April 13, 2009; 09:05 PM ET | Comments (1)
Farewell, Harry
When you heard the sound of Harry Kalas, you turned the volume up.
By Zach Leibowitz | April 13, 2009; 04:52 PM ET | Comments (0)
A Sad Day
His voice will resonate in the minds and hearts of fans until they pass.
By Dick Vermeil | April 13, 2009; 04:08 PM ET | Comments (0)
Deep Voice, Deep Loss
A legendary sports announcer is such a special treasure because they outlive the legends from the field. As players come and players go, they remain.
By Jim McCormick | April 13, 2009; 03:31 PM ET | Comments (4)
Only One "Comeback"
For one amazing day, Frank Reich and his Bills authored the most amazing comeback we're ever likely to see in the NFL.
By Doug Farrar | April 13, 2009; 11:15 AM ET | Comments (3)
It Has to Be Mean Joe
When you're the epicenter of football's greatest all-time defense, it makes sense that you're also football's greatest defensive draft pick.
By Doug Farrar | April 10, 2009; 09:32 AM ET | Comments (0)
Draft Picks' Green Jackets
From an event anticipation and excitement standpoint, the Lions War Room may as well be at Amen Corner.
By Dan Levy | April 8, 2009; 12:06 PM ET | Comments (0)
NFL Has Many
Traditions are an integral part of the NFL and one of the reasons the game is revered.
By Peter Schaffer | April 8, 2009; 10:17 AM ET | Comments (1)
Tailgating is Tops
The best football tradition? What could possibly be better than tailgating?
By Doug Farrar | April 8, 2009; 10:14 AM ET | Comments (0)
Then? Steelers-Raiders. Now? Steelers-Ravens.
These days, with the Brady/Manning rivalry on hiatus, the best go-round can be seen whenever the Steelers play their divisional nemesis, the Baltimore Ravens.
By Doug Farrar | March 27, 2009; 10:50 PM ET | Comments (1)
49ers vs. Cowboys
The "betrayal" of former 49er Charles Haley going to Dallas, or former Cowboy Ken Norton, Jr. making the same move to San Francisco only heightened the hated rivalry. It certainly isn't the oldest or, perhaps, even the best. One could make the argument that the Packers-Bears is the best of all time. Hailing from the West Coast, I enjoyed the myriad of rivalries from the Oakland Raiders perspective, including against the Broncos and Chiefs. However, the 49ers-Cowboys rivalry was the one that I believe helped transform the NFL into America's Game.
By Rob Rang | March 27, 2009; 10:05 PM ET | Comments (1)
Brady-Manning?
Reluctantly it seems that the NFL's version of Magic and Bird is Peyton Manning and Tom Brady. Two great players, but the rivalry isn't even close to that on the hardwood.
By Dan Levy | March 27, 2009; 11:24 AM ET | Comments (1)
Al Davis vs. Pete Rozelle
The NFL doesn't have rivalries like the NBA, closest thing would Pete Rozelle and Al Davis
By Kornheiser & Wilbon | March 27, 2009; 10:39 AM ET | Comments (0)
Joe Willie vs. Johnny U
The epic battles the two players had are etched in the memories of the baby boom generation.
By Peter Schaffer | March 27, 2009; 10:14 AM ET | Comments (1)
In D.C., Allen vs. Landry
The NFL to a large degree, owe a large debt to Allen for introducing the Redskins-Cowboys rivalry to a national audience and making it must-watch TV every season.
By Gene Wang | March 27, 2009; 10:01 AM ET | Comments (0)
Should the NFL Expand the Regular Season?
Readers vote here on whether to expand or shrink the NFL regular season.
By Reader Poll | March 26, 2009; 01:41 PM ET | Comments (0)
Bad Idea All Around
Season expansion is probably inevitable, but is it actually a good idea? How do I count the ways in which it isn't?
By Doug Farrar | March 25, 2009; 12:34 PM ET | Comments (1)
Don't Dilute the Season
The point is, more football is always seems good but I don't think devaluing the regular season anymore make sense.
By Dan Levy | March 25, 2009; 12:08 PM ET | Comments (1)
Expansion Inevitable
Expansion of NFL season is probably inevitable, but is it fair for all teams, especially those in warm climates?
By Tony Kornheiser | March 25, 2009; 11:19 AM ET | Comments (0)
Learning From College
Overtime is one of the areas in which I believe the NCAA has surged past the NFL in being more fan-friendly and fairer to the teams, themselves.
By Rob Rang | March 20, 2009; 02:12 PM ET | Comments (0)
OT's For Postseason
Eliminate regular-season overtime altogether. You play sixty minutes, and if it's all even, that's it.
By Doug Farrar | March 20, 2009; 01:29 AM ET | Comments (2)
March 19th Winner: bigboid
I always thought the rule only needed to be modified just a wee bit: ensure both teams get at least one possession in OT.
By TOP COMMENTER | March 19, 2009; 03:58 PM ET | Comments (0)
NFL OT Unfair
Kornheiser proposes his OT reformation plan, Wilbon sees no need to change it.
By Kornheiser & Wilbon | March 19, 2009; 11:16 AM ET | Comments (1)
Draft Over Bracket
As a sports event, March Madness can't be beat, but participating in a fantasy football draft is the cheatsheet-clutching, hands-down winner over filling out a bracket.
By Desmond Bieler | March 15, 2009; 06:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
Brees & L.T.? A Big Easy
If the Chargers release Tomlinson, the Saints should pounce immediately
By Doug Farrar | March 10, 2009; 08:36 AM ET | Comments (0)
Cowboy Torture Never Stops
The gag order will last until Jones hears another set of questions he can't answer in a way that explains his own modus operandi favorably.
By Doug Farrar | February 24, 2009; 09:47 AM ET | Comments (0)
Father Jones Knows Best
I think this policy is profound. In fact, I have just put a gag order on my family.
By David Aldridge | February 23, 2009; 08:03 AM ET | Comments (2)
Combine Blurs Reality
The combine itself is not overrated, but it does create overrated players.
By Jim McCormick | February 20, 2009; 03:03 PM ET | Comments (0)
The Combine Sells
The Combine has become an event that is not only followed by old-school Draftniks, but also all of those looking to make money from or through the NFL.
By David Carter | February 19, 2009; 06:23 AM ET | Comments (0)
A Piece of the Process
The Combine earns its importance when it becomes the best forum for smaller-school players to perform on a (literal) even playing field.
By Doug Farrar | February 19, 2009; 06:08 AM ET | Comments (0)
February 17th Winner: PlayByTheRules
It is long past time for player salaries to move back into the realm of reality. Why should a family of four pay more than a month's utility bills to go to a ball game?
By TOP COMMENTER | February 17, 2009; 11:28 PM ET | Comments (2)
Should NFL Players Take a Pay Cut?
Granted their contracts are not guaranteed but, given the current economic crisis, could NFL players appeal to fans by following their commissioner in taking a 10% pay cut? You decide...
By Reader Poll | February 17, 2009; 04:45 PM ET | Comments (0)
Let Him Earn His Money
I would rather have Goodell earning his salary, and looking at the big picture, than trying some sort of stimulus gesture that would be the equivalent of a Band-Aid on an amputation.
By Doug Farrar | February 16, 2009; 11:16 AM ET | Comments (0)
A Cut Above
With all due respect to Goodell, no one pays to watch the commissioner at work.
By Gene Wang | February 16, 2009; 10:07 AM ET | Comments (0)
No to Player Pay Cuts
For the record, the commissioner's "giveback" is more of a PR move than a true magnanimous gesture.
By Peter Schaffer | February 16, 2009; 09:42 AM ET | Comments (3)
Cuts Start at the Top
What if the owners gave their fans a little stimulus package of their own?
By Dan Levy | February 16, 2009; 09:16 AM ET | Comments (0)
Baseball Is History and History Is Passé
Baseball, like our current economy, has been run as an institution that thought itself impervious to decay and decline.
By Jim McCormick | February 9, 2009; 02:36 PM ET | Comments (1)
February 8th Winner: OZPUNK
Moving the Pro Bowl to a different place might save the NFL money but it will diminish interest in players. Who wants to go to Detroit in February to play a meaningless football game?
By TOP COMMENTER | February 8, 2009; 10:37 PM ET | Comments (1)
A Better Pro Bowl
Here are some steps that would make the NFL all-star game more watchable
By Peter Schaffer | February 6, 2009; 10:53 AM ET | Comments (0)
Pro Bowl Fix
Kornheiser: You have to do something.
Wilbon: It's worthless to try.
By Kornheiser & Wilbon | February 6, 2009; 09:57 AM ET | Comments (0)
Have A Skills Competition
The Pro Bowl can be saved one way and one way only. Get rid of it and bring back the Skills Competition.
By Dan Levy | February 6, 2009; 09:38 AM ET | Comments (0)
Pro Bust
The Pro Bowl is well-intentioned, but doomed to fail
By Zach Leibowitz | February 6, 2009; 09:00 AM ET | Comments (0)
What's Wrong With Hawaii?
The Pro Bowl is, like any sunset, placed best on the islands.
By Doug Farrar | February 6, 2009; 08:30 AM ET | Comments (0)
Faithful How, Pray Tell
Would the sportswriters who give Kurt Warner a pass to say, "I'm trying to represent Jesus" do the same if he said, "I'm trying to represent Reebok."?
By Kathy Orton | February 5, 2009; 12:00 AM ET | Comments (10)
February 4th Winner: skinsfan80
At the end of the day, it's hard to have a discussion about restricting one person's rights while not also asking yourself if you should stop talking because you're furthering your own agenda in the same breath.
By TOP COMMENTER | February 4, 2009; 11:40 PM ET | Comments (0)
Does it Matter?
Regardless of how people feel about religion entering certain non-secular spaces, they will continue to love chicken sandwiches, and of course, football.
By Jim McCormick | February 4, 2009; 02:03 PM ET | Comments (0)
Separating Church and Stadium
Even if God is what got you there, does He really need to be plugged?
By Emil Steiner | February 4, 2009; 12:14 PM ET | Comments (1)
Strength in Faith
How could there be too much of something that improves the chemistry and attitude of a team?
By Dick Vermeil | February 4, 2009; 10:09 AM ET | Comments (7)
There is No God In Team
It seems that most athletes thank God when they actually want to thank themselves.
By Dan Levy | February 4, 2009; 09:46 AM ET | Comments (5)
Faith Enhancement?
Governing bodies across the globe are attempting to combat illegal drug use. But what if faith is a natural performance - enhancer?
By Dr. Matthew Prowler | February 4, 2009; 09:31 AM ET | Comments (2)
The Rooney Blueprint Wins
In a league rife with copycats the Steelers have always followed their own blueprint. And it's built quite a trophy room.
By Jim McCormick | February 3, 2009; 12:30 PM ET | Comments (3)
Time to Own Up Guys
I can't decide if I'd sack Al Davis or Daniel Snyder first. So, I'm going to take a .5 sack on each and call it a day.
By Zach Leibowitz | December 15, 2008; 10:01 AM ET | Comments (1)
McCoy and Bradford Do
Although Heisman winning quarterback rarely make it, expect this year's winner to have a successful NFL career.
By Peter Schaffer | December 12, 2008; 12:21 PM ET | Comments (1)
Sam I Am
Bradford has the build and the golden arm to make it happen.
By Zach Leibowitz | December 12, 2008; 12:20 PM ET | Comments (0)
You're 0-13!
As long as the heckling wasn't obviously offensive, the fans in Detroit had every right to vent their frustration with this historically pathetic team.
By Mark Maske | December 10, 2008; 08:18 AM ET | Comments (1)
No Favorite in the AFC
Want a Super Bowl favorite for the AFC? Put the names of the Steelers, Titans and Colts in a hat and pick one.
By Mark Maske | December 8, 2008; 02:40 PM ET | Comments (2)
In Spirit of St. Louis
Get your dancing shoes ready Arizona and get ready to toast because your Cardinals are clinching their first division title since 1975 this Sunday
By Zach Leibowitz | December 6, 2008; 01:35 AM ET | Comments (0)
Packers, Bears on Edge
Between the Bears and Packers, whoever loses on Sunday is pretty much done.
By Doug Farrar | December 6, 2008; 01:26 AM ET | Comments (0)
Goodell Blew It Again
Roger Goodell's NFL has been marked by uneven discipline and shifting standards
By Doug Farrar | December 4, 2008; 10:59 AM ET | Comments (5)
The Delay Game
Like clockwork, when ever there is a suspension, the players and league take their comical dance.
By Gene Wang | December 4, 2008; 10:43 AM ET | Comments (1)
Protect Your Temple
The simple answer to this question is a loud and resounding "YES"!
By Dr. A. Brion Gardner | December 4, 2008; 08:20 AM ET | Comments (1)
'Wall' Must Block Better
Even if this had nothing to do with steroids, league rules are league rules and players need to remain vigilant.
By Zach Leibowitz | December 4, 2008; 08:07 AM ET | Comments (0)
Pack Responsibly
If a player feels the need to own a gun then he needs to know how to do so legally. Ignorance is no defense.
By Peter Schaffer | December 3, 2008; 01:11 PM ET | Comments (6)
Pack Is Sacked
The early season cheer in Green Bay is now a distant memory.
By Gene Wang | December 2, 2008; 12:35 PM ET | Comments (1)
So Long, Saints
Not only will New Orleans miss the playoffs, it will lose to Detroit
By Desmond Bieler | December 2, 2008; 11:40 AM ET | Comments (0)
Saints Marching Out
The final whistle in Tampa Bay marked the death-knell for New Orleans.
By Zach Leibowitz | December 2, 2008; 11:39 AM ET | Comments (0)
Dump Him Now
I would say absolutely they're better off without him.
By Randy Cross | December 1, 2008; 03:42 PM ET | Comments (0)
Who Else Will Be Affected?
The most harrowing thing for the Giants is that Plaxico Burress's behavior put not only his NFL future in jeopardy, but Antonio Pierce's as well.
By Mark Maske | December 1, 2008; 01:20 PM ET | Comments (1)
Bye Plax
Have you seen anything that would indicate they're not?
By David Aldridge | December 1, 2008; 07:17 AM ET | Comments (18)
Mr. Big Shot
How hard is it to spend the night with your wife and baby boy without getting a temporary restraining order?
By Zach Leibowitz | December 1, 2008; 07:15 AM ET | Comments (2)
Giants Must Cut Bait
It's come to the point where the on-field Plax doesn't make up for the off-field Plax anymore.
By Doug Farrar | December 1, 2008; 07:14 AM ET | Comments (16)
Artificial Advantages?
When you destroy the equity between offense and defense for ratings, the game quality suffers.
By Doug Farrar | November 29, 2008; 06:36 PM ET | Comments (0)
What the NFL Wants
Take a look at the NFL's TV ratings. The people who run the sport know what they're doing, so don't argue with them.
By Mark Maske | November 28, 2008; 10:34 AM ET | Comments (0)
High Scores = Big Bucks
The more often teams are in the red zone, the more likely the league is to be in the green.
By David Carter | November 28, 2008; 09:27 AM ET | Comments (0)
Enough Shootouts Already
If scores keep going up, why not just tune in for only the fourth quarter?
By Cindy Boren | November 28, 2008; 09:26 AM ET | Comments (4)
Don't Pick Vick
He's a 30-year-old, ex-con, public relations nightmare... but some team probably will hire him.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 26, 2008; 11:30 AM ET | Comments (17)
He Has to Earn It
Vick has to not only prove that he's fit to play, he has to prove that he's fit to represent his team and the league.
By Peter Schaffer | November 26, 2008; 03:30 AM ET | Comments (26)
We All Make Mistakes
I do think Michael will play again in the NFL. Yeah, I do.
By Dan Reeves | November 26, 2008; 03:22 AM ET | Comments (99)
Contrition Aids PR
There are second chances in life and plenty of chances in the NFL. But a team will sign Vick only if he conducts himself in a way that allows the public to forgive him.
By Mark Maske | November 26, 2008; 03:15 AM ET | Comments (5)
How 'Bout Them Cowboys?
If the Giants stumble, Dallas just might be the team to take advantage.
By Mark Maske | November 25, 2008; 05:07 PM ET | Comments (2)
Sneaky South
From the Bucs to Indy, the NFC and AFC east had better watch their rising southern rivals.
By Doug Farrar | November 25, 2008; 12:51 PM ET | Comments (0)
Coy Colts
The less understood the Colts are heading into December, the more careful opponents must be.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 25, 2008; 12:38 PM ET | Comments (1)
Colts Cruising
Don't look now, but the Indianapolis Colts are a force again.
By Gene Wang | November 25, 2008; 12:29 PM ET | Comments (1)
Awkward to Go Back to McNabb Now
Once Andy Reid made the move to bench his prominent veteran quarterback, right or wrong, there should have been no turning back.
By Mark Maske | November 24, 2008; 03:20 PM ET | Comments (2)
Reid Was Right
Donovan has the worst fundamentals of any quarterback I've ever seen who's at his level.
By Joe Theismann | November 24, 2008; 02:41 PM ET | Comments (12)
Looking to Lay Blame? Try Mornhinweg
The real blame lies with the play calling of offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg.
By Emil Steiner | November 24, 2008; 12:56 PM ET | Comments (4)
Heavy is the Crown
Quarterbacks always get the blame, that's why they get the most money.
By Dick Vermeil | November 24, 2008; 10:27 AM ET | Comments (6)
Done-ovan
The Donovan McNabb era in Philadelphia ended Sunday, when Andy Reid replaced him with Kevin Kolb.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 24, 2008; 09:27 AM ET | Comments (2)
Not the Only One to Blame
It's clear that McNabb needs a change of scenery, but he doesn't deserve all the blame.
By Doug Farrar | November 24, 2008; 09:15 AM ET | Comments (1)
Character Matters
You lie down with dogs, you wake up with fleas.
By David Aldridge | November 21, 2008; 12:48 PM ET | Comments (0)
The Coach is a Keeper
Marvin Lewis should be retained. He needs a healthy Carson Palmer, and he needs full organizational support.
By Mark Maske | November 21, 2008; 12:40 PM ET | Comments (0)
Brown's "Bungals"
Who's to blame in Cincinnati? You got a couple hours to kill?
By Zach Leibowitz | November 21, 2008; 12:37 PM ET | Comments (2)
It Starts at the Top
Why should anyone on the Bengals believe that the franchise is being run by anyone with half a clue?
By Doug Farrar | November 21, 2008; 12:23 PM ET | Comments (0)
Cue Up will.i.am
Upon further review, score this one for the Team Obama.
By David Nakamura | November 20, 2008; 01:39 PM ET | Comments (2)
Go See Obama
It beats watching someone else say they're going to Disney World.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 20, 2008; 01:35 PM ET | Comments (1)
XLIII Beats 44
What's so exciting about catching pneumonia to watch a limo drive by?
By Emil Steiner | November 20, 2008; 01:04 PM ET | Comments (2)
Shut Your Mouth
Winning is tough enough already without getting the other team all riled up.
By Dan Reeves | November 19, 2008; 01:26 PM ET | Comments (0)
Depends Who's Talking
Joey Porter? Okay. Freddie Mitchell? Not okay.
By Mark Maske | November 19, 2008; 12:58 PM ET | Comments (0)
Porter Backs It Up
Porter may lead the league in pointed commentary, but he also is first in sacks.
By Gene Wang | November 19, 2008; 12:33 PM ET | Comments (1)
Keep on Talking
The Miami Dolphins franchise needs Joey Porter and all his loudness.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 19, 2008; 12:23 PM ET | Comments (0)
Cowboys (Yes, Cowboys)
The AFC remains wide open, even with the Titans unbeaten. It will take an NFC East team to beat the Giants.
By Mark Maske | November 18, 2008; 01:47 PM ET | Comments (0)
Could Be the Colts
Watch out for Indy in the AFC and Washington in the NFC.
By Carl Banks | November 18, 2008; 01:38 PM ET | Comments (2)
Panthers and Ravens
Nobody knows better then the G-men what it means upset a juggernaut.
By Doug Farrar | November 18, 2008; 12:28 PM ET | Comments (1)
Fox and the Genius
Jets and Panthers are on the prowl.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 18, 2008; 12:21 PM ET | Comments (0)
A Win-Win Fix
Wouldn't the NFL be even more exciting if there was a college-type overtime format?
By Emil Steiner | November 17, 2008; 03:19 PM ET | Comments (1)
If It Ain't Broke...
There's no body of evidence that says we need to change it.
By Charley Casserly | November 17, 2008; 01:53 PM ET | Comments (0)
Just Not Fair
If you're on the sidelines and you battle your ass off to win the football game, you hate to see the game decided by a coin toss.
By Dick Vermeil | November 17, 2008; 01:38 PM ET | Comments (0)
They Deserved It
Someone tell Donovan McNabb that you can tie a game. After that, let's not worry about it any more.
By Mark Maske | November 17, 2008; 12:33 PM ET | Comments (0)
Keep the Ties
The NFL's OT system, while controversial, isn't as bad as it appears.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 17, 2008; 12:15 PM ET | Comments (4)
Worth Watching Again
Having Romo back is not a guarantee for the Cowboys. But at least they have a chance now.
By Mark Maske | November 16, 2008; 12:17 PM ET | Comments (0)
Dallas Done
Remember, the Cowboys lost as many games with Romo starting as they did when he was out for three games with a broken pinkie.
By Gene Wang | November 14, 2008; 12:53 PM ET | Comments (6)
Only Remember December
Cowboys will get this turned around, and make the playoffs
By Jim Fassel | November 14, 2008; 10:57 AM ET | Comments (1)
Portis the Difference?
To me, it comes down to this one game for the Cowboys and if Clinton Portis plays for the Redskins, I don't think the Cowboys win it.
By Randy Cross | November 14, 2008; 10:55 AM ET | Comments (0)
Tough Sledding
Cowboys have an uphill battle if they want to make the playoffs.
By Joe Theismann | November 14, 2008; 10:52 AM ET | Comments (0)
Don't Believe the Hype
Hottest, no. Most over hyped, perhaps.
By Emil Steiner | November 13, 2008; 04:55 PM ET | Comments (0)
Sure Feels Like It
This game has got all the trappings.
By Jim Fassel | November 13, 2008; 02:27 PM ET | Comments (0)
More Than Spygate
This one is right up there. It's got the most recent acidic history.
By Randy Cross | November 13, 2008; 12:40 PM ET | Comments (0)
It's Ali Without Frazier
The Pats are fighting Gerry Cooney and waiting for the "real guy" (Indy) to show up.
By Doug Farrar | November 13, 2008; 12:32 PM ET | Comments (0)
Pats Yes, Jets No
the Jets to get to that point, they need to actually beat New England
By Zach Leibowitz | November 13, 2008; 12:30 PM ET | Comments (0)
This One Is Personal
I'm not a big believer in true rivalries in today's NFL. But Pats-Jets is different, thanks to the dynamic between Belichick and Mangini.
By Mark Maske | November 13, 2008; 12:30 PM ET | Comments (0)
Not Yet
He's certainly my comeback player of the year, but it's too early to call him MVP.
By Joe Theismann | November 12, 2008; 02:34 PM ET | Comments (0)
It's Warner, For Now
Brees has bigger numbers. Collins has more wins. There are other candidates, too. But Warner is most reponsible for his team having success.
By Mark Maske | November 12, 2008; 12:58 PM ET | Comments (0)
Collins Not Warner
But I'm sure he's still number one in Brenda's book.
By David Aldridge | November 12, 2008; 12:14 PM ET | Comments (0)
In the Hunt, but Not a Lock
At this point, I'd say he's in the running with Clinton Portis and Albert Haynesworth
By Doug Farrar | November 12, 2008; 12:12 PM ET | Comments (0)
Warner Warning - He's Back
Warner is in fact the MVP to date in '08
By Zach Leibowitz | November 12, 2008; 12:09 PM ET | Comments (0)
It's Pretty Amazing
Aikman didn't win as a rookie starter. Peyton Manning didn't. But Flacco and Ryan are. Who would have thought it possible?
By Mark Maske | November 11, 2008; 02:45 PM ET | Comments (0)
Thank Their Teams
It's about right spot, right time.
By Charley Casserly | November 11, 2008; 12:11 PM ET | Comments (0)
All Quarterbacks Need Help
Before we hold the coronation, consider that the all-time rookie W-L runners-up through nine games are Kyle Boller and Rick Mirer.
By Doug Farrar | November 11, 2008; 12:07 PM ET | Comments (0)
Ups and Downs of Rooks
can teams win with rookie quarterbacks? Yes, but the question is for how long.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 11, 2008; 11:35 AM ET | Comments (0)
It's Closer Than It's Been
The NFC South and AFC East are close. At least for now, though, it's still the NFC East.
By Mark Maske | November 10, 2008; 12:19 PM ET | Comments (0)
NFC South, Just Barely
The NFC South is the best division in football by a whisker over the NFC East.
By Gene Wang | November 10, 2008; 11:05 AM ET | Comments (9)
NFC East: Still King
Even the worst team in the division can hang with the best teams in football.
By Emil Steiner | November 10, 2008; 11:04 AM ET | Comments (1)
NFL Rises East, Sets West
With inclusion for all, let's take a look at all eight divisions and rank them from top to bottom.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 10, 2008; 11:03 AM ET | Comments (0)
Falcons Spent Wisely
The big-money free agent signings usually don't seem to work out. But this one is, at least so far.
By Mark Maske | November 7, 2008; 03:03 PM ET | Comments (1)
Finding Free Agent Gems
The teams that succeed in free agency are the ones that find solid players at fair prices
By Peter Schaffer | November 7, 2008; 12:40 PM ET | Comments (1)
The Haynesworth Franchise
He's doing more for his team than any other player whose long-term contract outlook has been undecided this season.
By Doug Farrar | November 7, 2008; 12:08 PM ET | Comments (5)
Scott and LaBoy
I've got two free agent signings that no one really paid attention to, but have helped their teams a lot this season.
By Floyd Reese | November 7, 2008; 12:07 PM ET | Comments (2)
Day Two Drafting Key
The NFL draft is a crap shoot but the teams that excel on the second day are usually the teams that play into January each year.
By Peter Schaffer | November 6, 2008; 01:10 PM ET | Comments (2)
Forte For Sure
He's not only their leading rusher, but also their leading receiver.
By Floyd Reese | November 6, 2008; 12:43 PM ET | Comments (1)
It's Horton, That's Who
There have been some productive 2nd- and 3rd-rounders, for sure. But for a late 7th-round pick to have played well, that's doing something.
By Mark Maske | November 6, 2008; 12:27 PM ET | Comments (5)
All Along the Hightower
Hightower is the key to Arizona's newfound relevance as a franchise.
By Doug Farrar | November 6, 2008; 12:27 PM ET | Comments (2)
Force with Forte
Forget DeSean Jackson, Matt Forte has already begun to heal the disappointment of the Benson debacle in Chicago.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 6, 2008; 12:18 PM ET | Comments (1)
Win and They'll Come
If you put together a good team and play good football, most of those other things will usually take care of themselves
By Bobby Beathard | November 5, 2008; 04:06 PM ET | Comments (0)
Give Fans a Reason
It's tough to blame a team that was 6-2 entering the game, but you have to win consistently over time to inspire absolute fan loyalty.
By Mark Maske | November 5, 2008; 01:37 PM ET | Comments (0)
Yinzers to Cowpokes?
It's up to the Redskins Nation to say, "Yes, We Can!"
By Doug Farrar | November 5, 2008; 01:02 PM ET | Comments (0)
Terrible Housing Issues
Washington's fans sold their tickets fast and furiously -- FedEx style
By Zach Leibowitz | November 5, 2008; 01:01 PM ET | Comments (12)
Vote Election
I never thought I'd care more about an election than my team . . . until now.
By Gene Wang | November 4, 2008; 05:13 PM ET | Comments (0)
You Cannot Be Serious
Don't minimize the importance of winning the White House, just because the pundits use sports cliches to cover the campaigns.
By Cindy Boren | November 4, 2008; 12:46 PM ET | Comments (0)
Pick Your Candidate, Please
Sports do matter. But this election matters more.
By Mark Maske | November 4, 2008; 12:44 PM ET | Comments (1)
Super Day
I'll take winning the Super Bowl for $1000, Alex.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 4, 2008; 12:40 PM ET | Comments (1)
Stick to Sports, Please
Stick to what you do. If ESPN does that tonight, everything will be okay.
By Mark Maske | November 3, 2008; 01:42 PM ET | Comments (2)
Bummer Boomer Vote
This guy should not be hosting NFL Countdown anymore let alone chatting with two presidential hopefuls.
By Zach Leibowitz | November 3, 2008; 01:29 PM ET | Comments (1)
Belichick in the Big Chair
He's the ultimate cool practitioner of realpolitik.
By Sally Jenkins | November 2, 2008; 10:42 AM ET | Comments (2)
Gridiron Election Map
Why campaign issues should matter to football fans.
By George Allen | November 1, 2008; 11:39 PM ET | Comments (20)
Dungy-Manning White House
Talk about a dream ticket.
By Gene Wang | November 1, 2008; 03:16 PM ET | Comments (1)
A Lombardi, Landry Ticket
They went to different churches, but they were able to work together.
By Sam Huff | October 31, 2008; 12:08 PM ET | Comments (8)
Could Fisher Fix America?
In these trying and uncertain times, America is in need of a President who can find success, no matter what the obstacles may be.
By Doug Farrar | October 31, 2008; 11:31 AM ET | Comments (0)
Mullet Man and Zorn
A Fisher-Zorn ticket would be great and Belichick has the tapes to prove it.
By Cindy Boren | October 31, 2008; 11:16 AM ET | Comments (0)
Being Nominated is Cool
It's a travesty to me that assistant coaches are never considered.
By Randy Cross | October 30, 2008; 01:18 PM ET | Comments (6)
Dominant Dermontti
Don't hate on Dawson just because he played the offensive ine.
By David Aldridge | October 30, 2008; 12:37 PM ET | Comments (5)
Cortez the Killer
Kennedy was the best defensive tackle of his era.
By Doug Farrar | October 30, 2008; 12:25 PM ET | Comments (1)
Don't Forget Davis and Craig
Roger Craig and Terrell Davis were virtually indispensable cogs in their respective offenses
By Gene Wang | October 30, 2008; 12:03 PM ET | Comments (2)
The Case For Hayes, Grimm, Tagliabue
The guess here is that Bob Hayes gets in this time, but so should Russ Grimm and Paul Tagliabue.
By Mark Maske | October 30, 2008; 10:34 AM ET | Comments (1)
Can't Make the Club in the Tub
Balancing the conflicting interests of team, sport and well being is the responsibility of not just the player, but his agent.
By Peter Schaffer | October 29, 2008; 05:56 PM ET | Comments (0)
Money Creates Security
It's different today because of the money and the salary cap. If I didn't play, someone might take my job.
By Joe Theismann | October 29, 2008; 01:51 PM ET | Comments (9)
Their Own Worst Enemies
The bulk of the pressure to play hurt, it seems to me, is self-imposed.
By Mark Maske | October 29, 2008; 01:37 PM ET | Comments (0)
Hurt or Injured?
There is always a delicate balance between taking a short term risk by allowing the player play versus sacrificing the future of the team
By Dr. A. Brion Gardner | October 29, 2008; 01:32 PM ET | Comments (0)
Discipline Still Works
Look at Parcells. Look at Belichick. Singletary's way still can work but he needs the support of his superiors.
By Mark Maske | October 28, 2008; 10:51 AM ET | Comments (1)
Old School Works
Playing is about being unselfish, and what you sacrifice for the team will ultimately pay you back more.
By Keenan McCardell | October 28, 2008; 09:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
Win, and He's In
In the end, there's only one way to get your team to buy in long-term to what Singletary is trying to accomplish. You have to win.
By Doug Farrar | October 28, 2008; 09:39 AM ET | Comments (0)
Keep It Real
To me, that was Mike Singletary being himself.
By Dan Reeves | October 28, 2008; 08:55 AM ET | Comments (1)
Singletary: Home Run or K
Singletary's no-nonsense approach should work in theory, but I don't think it will in San Francisco.
By Zach Leibowitz | October 28, 2008; 08:50 AM ET | Comments (0)
Better Chance of Infamy
The Lions and Bengals are 0-16 threats but you still can't quite convince me it's actually going to happen.
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2008; 11:41 AM ET | Comments (0)
Perfection is Easier
16-0 has happened, and 0-16 hasn't.
By Gene Wang | October 27, 2008; 09:58 AM ET | Comments (1)
Bengals Need Implosion
The Lions are a mess, but Cincinnati faces tougher competition.
By Doug Farrar | October 27, 2008; 09:58 AM ET | Comments (0)
A Measured Approach
Professional football cannot be allowed to degenerate into professional wrestling anymore than it can afford to become ballet.
By Emil Steiner | October 24, 2008; 02:39 PM ET | Comments (0)
No Place for Bounties
Commissioner Roger Goodell should step in big time if an organization is caught putting a price on a player's head.
By Dick Vermeil | October 24, 2008; 12:59 PM ET | Comments (0)
Not Much More The League Can Do
The NFL can't issue punishments if any players who might be involved in bounties keep their mouths shut.
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2008; 12:58 PM ET | Comments (0)
Bounties Backfire
If you need to put a price on someone's head to get motivated then you are in the wrong sport.
By Keenan McCardell | October 24, 2008; 12:55 PM ET | Comments (1)
Put a Bounty Suggs
It's time for Roger Goodell to suspend Terrell Suggs indefinitely.
By Zach Leibowitz | October 24, 2008; 12:34 PM ET | Comments (0)
Top Picks can Actually Hinder Rebuilding
Better to win all you can, get your draft strategy in order, and let the chips fall where they may.
By Doug Farrar | October 23, 2008; 11:35 AM ET | Comments (0)
Empty Tank
You're better off trying to build momentum going forward. It's not like basketball
By Charley Casserly | October 23, 2008; 11:12 AM ET | Comments (1)
Tank Away
While it's true that drafting high is no guarantee of success, it is the best shot a team can get at the top college football players.
By Emil Steiner | October 23, 2008; 10:59 AM ET | Comments (0)
Draft's a Crap Shoot
There's no use trying to lose games to get a top pick when top picks so often turn out to be expensive mistakes.
By Mark Maske | October 23, 2008; 10:31 AM ET | Comments (0)
Bookmakers Dilemma
Obviously I'd love to have the information way in advance but I doubt the NFL teams are about to accommodate a bunch of bookmakers in Las Vegas.
By Johnny Avello | October 22, 2008; 02:06 PM ET | Comments (0)
A Conflict of Information
I remember we got fined once because on a Friday, Steve McNair got the flu.
By Floyd Reese | October 22, 2008; 12:39 PM ET | Comments (0)
Behind the Secrets
Between you and me... don't tell anybody!
By Dr. A. Brion Gardner | October 22, 2008; 12:30 PM ET | Comments (1)
The Art of Deception
Teams aren't in the business of assisting their opponents with confidential and internal information about their own teams.
By Peter Schaffer | October 22, 2008; 12:27 PM ET | Comments (0)
Full Disclosure? It'll Never Happen
Teams disclose what the NFL requires them to disclose, and very little else.
By Mark Maske | October 22, 2008; 10:45 AM ET | Comments (0)
Not the Same Colts
They may end up being the football version of the series "24."
By Randy Cross | October 21, 2008; 02:48 PM ET | Comments (1)
One Year Interruption
Are they that far away? No. But the plays that have gone their way in the past aren't going their way now.
By Joe Theismann | October 21, 2008; 02:19 PM ET | Comments (10)
Colts Will Rally
You don't panic. You just fight. That's all you can do, and the Colts will do it.
By Archie Manning | October 21, 2008; 11:53 AM ET | Comments (5)
The Colts Are Crumbling
It's still possible they could get this turned around, but you don't get that feeling about this team.
By Mark Maske | October 21, 2008; 10:48 AM ET | Comments (0)
It's Over... This Season
But Manning is too good to be down for long.
By David Aldridge | October 21, 2008; 10:34 AM ET | Comments (0)
Colts Losing Stud Status
The Colts may still very well make the playoffs this season. However, the 13 and 14-win seasons are part of the past in the Manning era.
By Zach Leibowitz | October 21, 2008; 10:29 AM ET | Comments (2)
Haslett Not the Difference
People are entitled to their opinion, but firing Scott Linehan had nothing to do with the Rams turnaround.
By Dick Vermeil | October 20, 2008; 01:34 PM ET | Comments (2)
Haslett Has Saved the Short-Term Rams
It was obvious to anyone who has observed the Rams this year that a change had to be made
By Doug Farrar | October 20, 2008; 11:18 AM ET | Comments (0)
Haslett Got Them Believing
He's got them not worrying about history and he's got them moving forward one step at a time.
By Dan Reeves | October 20, 2008; 11:12 AM ET | Comments (2)
Rams No Longer Lambs
Haslett absolutely deserves credit for the Rams sudden resurgence.
By Zach Leibowitz | October 20, 2008; 10:39 AM ET | Comments (0)
Losing Linehan Was Key
Give Jim Haslett some credit, but don't go overboard. This is more about Scott Linehan being gone than who succeeded him.
By Mark Maske | October 20, 2008; 10:37 AM ET | Comments (0)
In Person, the NFL Is Third
I'd rather go to a college -- or high school -- game.
By Jon DeNunzio | October 17, 2008; 01:16 PM ET | Comments (0)
College Is King
The rivalries are just bigger in the NCAA
By Robert Smith | October 17, 2008; 12:46 PM ET | Comments (1)
Major vs. Minor League
.Never mind that the "integrity of amateur sports" argument was proven to be a canard decades ago
By Doug Farrar | October 17, 2008; 11:27 AM ET | Comments (0)
Watch How the Pros Do It
It's hard to completely dedicate yourself to a college system that still can't produce an undisputed champion.
By Zach Leibowitz | October 17, 2008; 11:17 AM ET | Comments (4)
NFL Is King
College football is exciting, but it can't compare to the raw emotion and parity of the NFL.
By Peter Schaffer | October 17, 2008; 10:19 AM ET | Comments (3)
Don't Change It
Adding even one more playoff team per conference would distill the NFL postseason into warmed-over ginger ale.
By David Aldridge | October 16, 2008; 10:56 AM ET | Comments (0)
Let It Be Goodell
Extending the regular season is fine but don't mess with the playoffs.
By Mark Maske | October 16, 2008; 10:54 AM ET | Comments (2)
NFL not the NHL
It should be a hard earned victory just to make the playoffs. Don't saturate the system.
By Zach Leibowitz | October 16, 2008; 10:25 AM ET | Comments (1)
Real Heroes Speak Out
Let's make players' free speech rights a bi-partisan cause.
By E.J. Dionne Jr. | October 15, 2008; 03:44 PM ET | Comments (2)
Big Brother Crennel
Romeo Crennel's dictum is way out of line. Not only does talking politics belong in locker rooms but they could use more of it.
By Jess Atkinson | October 15, 2008; 12:04 PM ET | Comments (7)
Good For Political Players
Coaches might not like it, but too bad.
By Mark Maske | October 15, 2008; 09:32 AM ET | Comments (1)
We Want It Both Ways
Today's athletes are less predisposed to air their political views because their words can be twisted in just about any fashion.
By Doug Farrar | October 15, 2008; 09:29 AM ET | Comments (0)
Unity Needs Paternalism
In order to remain a team, the individual comes second.
By Don Yee | October 15, 2008; 09:20 AM ET | Comments (1)
Tough to Win Without QB1
The Cowboys without Tony Romo aren't even close.
By Doug Farrar | October 14, 2008; 10:24 AM ET | Comments (0)
Romo Chokes the 'Boys
The Cowboys are better off without Tony Romo. They have a better chance of winning the Super Bowl with Brad Johnson at the helm, and here's why.
By Emil Steiner | October 14, 2008; 01:26 AM ET | Comments (4)
Time For a Cowboys T.O.
At This Point, Can Losing Romo Really Hurt Them That Much?
By Cindy Boren | October 14, 2008; 01:14 AM ET | Comments (0)
Doomsday for Dallas
The Dallas Cowboys are done. Mark it down. In a season that began Super Bowl or bust, Dallas is careening toward the latter.
By Gene Wang | October 14, 2008; 01:12 AM ET | Comments (2)
Don't Count Them Out
The Dallas Cowboys are far from done despite Tony Romo being sidelined for the next month.
By Zach Leibowitz | October 14, 2008; 01:11 AM ET | Comments (0)
Atlanta is Rising Again
Who would have thought the Falcons could be this good?
By Doug Farrar | October 13, 2008; 01:32 PM ET | Comments (1)
Dr. Jones & Mr. Pacman
This week's events may have jeopardized all the positive work and progress.
By Peter Schaffer | October 11, 2008; 11:30 PM ET | Comments (0)
Cut Pac Some Slack
He's been improving some and deserves some credit.
By Keenan McCardell | October 10, 2008; 04:52 PM ET | Comments (0)
Lifetime Ban Seems Unlikely
The commissioner is disappointed but people around the league don't think he'll impose a permanent suspension.
By Mark Maske | October 10, 2008; 11:38 AM ET | Comments (0)
Stop Holding Back Defense
It's ridiculous, why don't you just leave the defense on the sidelines?
By Charles Mann | October 9, 2008; 11:44 AM ET | Comments (2)
No Defending Too Much Offense
Without question, fewer holding calls provide offenses with a decided competitive advantage.
By Gene Wang | October 9, 2008; 11:40 AM ET | Comments (0)
It's Not Helping Scores
If the NFL was trying to increase scoring with this, it's not really working.
By Doug Farrar | October 9, 2008; 11:30 AM ET | Comments (0)
NFL Giving Fans What They Want
The league wants passing and it wants scoring. Defensive players had better just learn to live with it because that's not changing.
By Mark Maske | October 9, 2008; 10:49 AM ET | Comments (0)
Accountability Please
A player absolutely should be allowed to have a difference of opinion on a call and be able to air that grievance in a public forum.
By Gene Wang | October 8, 2008; 02:26 PM ET | Comments (3)
Let the Players Speak
If the goal of the NFL is to create fair competition they owe it to themselves, and their millions of fans to end this draconian policy.
By Emil Steiner | October 8, 2008; 11:01 AM ET | Comments (4)
Integrity Means Silence
Referees cannot be ripped by the players in the public eye.
By Zach Leibowitz | October 8, 2008; 10:50 AM ET | Comments (5)
The Officials Can Take It
They're already scrutinized so closely that a little public debate wouldn't bother them.
By Mark Maske | October 8, 2008; 10:46 AM ET | Comments (0)
Don't Get Tricked Out
If you're better than your opponent, don't screw around.
By Dick Vermeil | October 7, 2008; 11:35 AM ET | Comments (1)
Vogue Patterns
Trick plays have always been in vogue, it's just they don't work all the time so you don't notice them as much.
By Zach Leibowitz | October 7, 2008; 11:28 AM ET | Comments (0)
Memorable, If They Work
That's Why We're Noticing
By Mark Maske | October 7, 2008; 11:02 AM ET | Comments (0)
Peyton's Place Ahead of Eli
With Peyton, virtually no deficit is insurmountable. Just look at the comeback he helped engineer yesterday against Houston.
By Gene Wang | October 6, 2008; 10:31 AM ET | Comments (0)
It's Still Peyton
Unless Eli wins another Super Bowl this season
By Mark Maske | October 6, 2008; 10:13 AM ET | Comments (0)
Lions First, Bengals Last
Just check out the schedules, but no one is 0-16 bad.
By Mark Maske | October 3, 2008; 10:16 AM ET | Comments (0)
Character Matters, Publicly
Ideally a team would have a roster of humanitarians who date celebrities, record platinum selling albums and win the Super Bowl every year, but it ain't gonna happen.
By Emil Steiner | October 2, 2008; 01:26 PM ET | Comments (0)
It's Not Really A Choice
The risks that teams take on players with off-field troubles usually aren't rewarded in today's NFL.
By Mark Maske | October 2, 2008; 10:06 AM ET | Comments (1)
Better to Win With Baggage
Owners are risk takers who gain little by losing with class.
By David Carter | October 2, 2008; 08:21 AM ET | Comments (0)
Desire to Change Matters
Character is never expendable however everyone deserves a second chance.
By Peter Schaffer | October 2, 2008; 08:21 AM ET | Comments (2)
Hating on Hypocrisy
Save the morality play for the church pulpit, and get those players on the field because they can help you win games
By Gene Wang | October 2, 2008; 08:20 AM ET | Comments (1)
Nine Reasons Football Rules
Has the NFL ever canceled a Super Bowl because of labor issues? I rest my case.
By Tom Boswell | October 1, 2008; 09:59 AM ET | Comments (21)
Wild Cards Diluted MLB
Nothing matches the intensity and sense of anticipation at an NFL postseason game.
By Mark Maske | October 1, 2008; 09:55 AM ET | Comments (2)
NFL Playoffs Are a Diamond
Pro football puts on a compelling reality show over a 15-day season every January; baseball, well, um ... how 'bout those Rays?
By Cindy Boren | October 1, 2008; 08:26 AM ET | Comments (3)
Sparano In Jeopardy
The Dolphins couldn't seem to decide if they were starting over from scratch or not.
By Mark Maske | September 30, 2008; 09:34 AM ET | Comments (1)
Eagles Are Most Fragile
All four are playoff-worthy but a key injury or two will knock one out.
By Mark Maske | September 29, 2008; 10:35 AM ET | Comments (3)
It Matters to Players
It's hard to have a rivalry when one of the teams stinks.
By Charles Mann | September 26, 2008; 11:00 AM ET | Comments (9)
Transience Killed The Rivalry
There's little sense of history as players and coaches jump from city to city in this money-driven, win-now-or-else league.
By Mark Maske | September 26, 2008; 09:53 AM ET | Comments (0)
Suspension Was the Right Call
The Giants suspended Burress for a bye, and against a Seahawks team that's beatable with or without him.
By Doug Farrar | September 25, 2008; 09:58 AM ET | Comments (0)
Burress Deserved It
Burress deserves what he got. He's lucky he wasn't suspended for four games.
By Dick Vermeil | September 25, 2008; 07:40 AM ET | Comments (1)
Be Proactive, Rosenhaus
Like spanking a parent spanking a child, the team is hurting themselves more than they are hurting the player.
By Peter Schaffer | September 25, 2008; 06:01 AM ET | Comments (0)
Trent Green Isn't the Answer
A switch not made for the right reason is the one that just happened in St. Louis. Marc Bulger wasn't the Rams problem.
By Mark Maske | September 24, 2008; 08:05 AM ET | Comments (0)
Dissension and Dysfunction
Kiffin, Linehan could go soon but it won't do any good for either team.
By Mark Maske | September 23, 2008; 11:01 AM ET | Comments (0)
Bills Are Best of Trio
Buffalo and Tennessee are solid but you still can't trust Denver quite yet
By Mark Maske | September 22, 2008; 09:49 AM ET | Comments (3)
Violence Equals Success
The league's competitive balance and the inherent violent nature of the game are part of what makes the sport so compelling to viewers.
By Mark Maske | September 19, 2008; 12:50 PM ET | Comments (7)
Get 'Em Young 'N Cheap
Getting the right backup QB in the salary cap world means finding a Cassel or a Frerotte.
By Mark Maske | September 17, 2008; 10:46 PM ET | Comments (0)
Don't Fret About the NFL
It's feeling the pinch, like everyone, but this league knows how to make money
By Mark Maske | September 16, 2008; 06:49 PM ET | Comments (1)
Don't Overhaul Instant Replay
All that's needed is to tweak the replay rules like the league already did for botched down-by-contact calls
By Mark Maske | September 16, 2008; 09:44 AM ET | Comments (2)
The Solution: Play Well, Win
Then No One Will Care
By Mark Maske | September 10, 2008; 09:52 PM ET | Comments (0)
God, Country, Football
For all the talk about the lack of proper vetting of America's favorite new Eskimo Pie, did anybody think to, I dunno, vet the national football schedule.
By Zach Leibowitz | September 4, 2008; 08:41 AM ET | Comments (1)
RNC or NFL? Fuhgeddaboudit!
I'm now thinking of the comparisons. Is Tom Coughlin the John McCain of the NFL?
By Doug Farrar | September 4, 2008; 08:32 AM ET | Comments (1)
No Contest
Tough to Beat the NFL on TV
By Mark Maske | September 3, 2008; 10:50 PM ET | Comments (14)
Why Can't the Giants Be This Year's Giants?
Lightning can be bottled twice. Now, this pretty much hinges on whether we get the Eli Manning of last December-January, or the Eli Manning of the 26 previous years on Earth. And whether Tom Coughlin doesn't get too grouchy. And...
By Matthew Bonesteel | September 3, 2008; 03:49 PM ET | Comments (0)
Risky Business
The larger issue is that these are wealthy, young adult men with a lot going for them.
By Zach Leibowitz | September 3, 2008; 01:03 PM ET | Comments (0)
The Problem Isn't Just the NFL's
No one can decide who's going to win the Super Bowl and we're going to solve the issue of gun violence in the NFL?
By Cindy Boren | September 3, 2008; 08:43 AM ET | Comments (0)
It's Doing Enough
Coaches like to say they can't watch their players 24 hours a day, and they're right.
By Mark Maske | September 3, 2008; 08:30 AM ET | Comments (1)
Not the NFL's Problem
We're seeking a solution for a problem that doesn't exist.
By David Aldridge | September 3, 2008; 07:27 AM ET | Comments (9)
Education Over Legislation
Gun violence, or more broadly the gun culture, is nothing new for NFL players.
By Gene Wang | September 3, 2008; 06:48 AM ET | Comments (0)
Big Dawgs to Pound
Romeo's team will finally emerge from its Shakespearean tragedy otherwise known as the last quarter of a century - and then some.
By Zach Leibowitz | September 2, 2008; 09:34 AM ET | Comments (3)
It's New Orleans.
The Saints might be ready to finish what they started when they made it to the NFC Championship game at the end of their miracle 2006 season.
By Doug Farrar | September 2, 2008; 09:24 AM ET | Comments (0)
Six Letters: E-A-G-L-E-S!
The Eagles are a lock to be exciting, and a threat to any opponent.
By Emil Steiner | September 1, 2008; 11:34 PM ET | Comments (2)
Saints Have The Offense To Do It
You gotta love the Saints' offense.
By Mark Maske | September 1, 2008; 10:54 PM ET | Comments (2)
I Dunno; You Tell Me
This feels a little like one of those Tampa Bay Bucs years... only without the Bucs.
By Cindy Boren | September 1, 2008; 05:09 PM ET | Comments (0)
Cleveland Rocks
Browns Are Poised to Make a Run in the AFC
By Gene Wang | September 1, 2008; 03:20 PM ET | Comments (2)
