On a scale of 1-10, how much are you enjoying watching these NFL playoffs without your Dallas Cowboys?
If you answered -5,478,129, then you have an inkling of how I'm feeling. Sure, the games allow some to gauge where exactly the Cowboys stand compared to the league's best, if you're a snapshot artist, of which I'm not. I've seen some ridiculous claims based on these playoff performances; most notably such things as Tony Romo is now a worse quarterback commodity than Tim Tebow and Alex Smith based on one victory each. Bury your heads in shame.
Also, I wonder what those folks who claim Dallas should build an elite offense and not worry about the defense are saying now that New Orleans and Green Bay are eliminated? How'd that work out for them?
I had a few commitments (sorry, not me into an asylum) over the weekend that prevented me from watching the majority of the four games, and I'm still undecided how I feel about it. Most years, it doesn't matter what Dallas does, I'm tuned in from the divisional rounds forward like a Cool World/Roger Rabbit/Space Jam trifecta on UPN. Wait for it, wait for it... OK.
This year, not so much.
Maybe it's old age, maybe it's the disappointment of another failed Dallas Cowboys season, maybe it's a bit of catharsis from the hundreds of articles I've penned since the 2010 season ended.
This playoff season has failed to whet my rooting appetite. I keep getting presented with matchups where I want both teams to lose. Not just lose, but lose miserably. For me, it's been the Playoffs of Hate. Not the "love to hate" variety either. It's been a general, I hate everybody, sourpuss, grinch, where is an extinction-level-event-asteroid-when-you-need-it mood.
More...
In the Wild Card round, Denver hosted Pittsburgh. I hate the Steelers, I'm a Cowboys fan and they sit atop the AFC Totem of Hatred with two-too-many Lombardis. On the other hand, I despise the Tebow Bandwagon and all the backers who pretend like they don't know Kyle Orton started his Denver career 6-1 before careening to 4-14. Any joy I could conjure from watching the Black and Yellow #EpicFail was mitigated by having to hear croons over Tebow's once-in-a-lifetime performance as a bonafide quarterback.
Also in the WC round, The New York Giants versus Matt Ryan and the overrated Falcons. I'd love to bask in the glow created from the steaming pile of melting Matty Ice, but noooooo. It came at the hands of the putrid, disgusting New York Giants who have been playing great football since we held a 12 point lead with six minutes remaining back in Week 14. No joy in Mudville here, either. Yes, the Cowboys were owning the Giants in that game. Yes, anything can happen in the playoffs. No, their success doesn't mean that Dallas is "right there". Stop it.
Houston and Cincinnati was a boring draw; you just can't spice up Yates vs. Dalton or the Bengals 1-7 (now 1-8) record against over-.500 competition. The only good matchup was watching the Saints second-half dismantling of Jim Schwartz's Detroit Lions, because I have a great disdain for him since he trash-talked Dez Bryant in-game.
The Divisional round? Things didn't get any easier.
In the NFC, the New Orleans Saints were the only remaining team that didn't invoke feelings of ill-will. I missed the first 40 minutes of the game, but made it home to watch what might have been the best fourth quarter of a playoff game I can remember. The wrong team won, though. Outside of the NFC East, is there a team that Cowboys fans, at least in my age bracket, hates more than the 49ers? Nope.
Now, on top of losing the only NFC team I wanted to root for, I have to listen to national shows gawk over Alex Smith and his amazing transformation. See, as a diehard Cowboys fan, I look at everything through Dallas-colored lenses. A former 'bum' quarterback that receives accolades means another indirect shot at Tony Romo's ability to be an elite guy. I referenced it earlier, we even see it from Cowboys fans. In addition, San Francisco has the same amount of Super Bowl wins as the Cowboys. Now, the only team standing in the way of them having a shot to pass us is... the New York Giants.
Are you freakin' kidding me?
In another matchup of teams I loathe, the Giants upset the 15-1, number one seeded Green Bay Packers. Wouldn't you love to celebrate all the whine to go along with the cheeseheads? But we can't, because they lost to a team that elicits more vitriol than they do. Catastrophic asteroid where were you?
What makes it worse? Eli Manning is now 6-3 in the playoffs. For all the sucktitude that was his 2010 season, this run is making it near impossible not to give him credit. Not just 'right now', American Express type of credit. I'm talking career-defining, Platinum Visa credit. I'd settle for a meteorite right now.
In the AFC, my disgust for all things "Media Tebow" meant that I actually had to root for the New England Patriots for a game. The acid bath hasn't helped; I still feel dirty. Fortunately it got so out of hand I was able to cut off the game eight minutes into the second quarter.
The other AFC semifinal featured two teams I care little about. I'm not a native Texan, so the "little brother" Houston rivalry doesn't resonate with me. I understand the views that it does, though. I do live in Maryland, however. Not "Baltimore" Maryland.... "PG County" Marlyand. For those that are from here, you know the difference. So I have no love for the Ravens even though they "represent" my state. It appears I didn't miss much because all the analysts I've come across have the same meme: "If the Texans had Schaub and Mario, they'd have rolled". Not a ringing endorsement for the job done by Joe Flacco.
This is the only hope to keep New England from another Super Bowl appearance?
So what am I left with? An NFC matchup between a division rival and the team tied with us for second-most championships... a team that was in deeper doldrums than our franchise and has zoomed past us? I'll pass. An AFC matchup between the evil "yes-I'm-jealous" Bellicheats and a team that represents a city I non-sports hate?
Ugh. Someone tweet me when the Scouting Combine gets underway. That, or when there's breaking news of a surprise meteor shower. Excuse me while I toss this Mayan calendar out the window.
4 recs | 161 comments
Boring playoffs
Don’t want the Giants to win
Don’t want Belichick & Brady to win again
Not the overrated NFC rival 49ers either
Hopeful superbowl outcome
49ers vs Ravens (Harbaugh Bowl)
Go Ravens….?
bitterlyhonest - January 17, 2012
No way I guess you do not live around mant Ravens fans?
They are the AFC Philly fans, I hope they never win another game ever.
tattooed cowboy - January 17, 2012
I live in between Baltimore and Philly...
If they win though, then Ray Lewis can retire and get on with his life so someone else can make the Pro Bowl.
bitterlyhonest - January 17, 2012
If they win maybe him and Reed retire, so we don't have to face them next season
starmesh23 - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Wow KD, you said perfectly what I am feeling.
My last hope was the Texans, as I am too close to Baltimore to want to see them win it. Their fans are as bad as Eagles. Spot on piece.
Though
I am in that camp and I don’t think any of us say ignore the defense, just that the first round pick has to be DeCastro. There doesn’t seem like there will be a star D player worth value at that spot. I am a huge advocate of trying the opposite. Instead of signing a ton of FA for the offense lets do it for the D. Spend big money in FA for the D, even if its at the expense of Robinson.
thebigham - January 17, 2012
grrrr... slap yourself Ham! lol
Robinson stays… sign some big free agency muscle but at least leave the offense as is. I wouldn’t care if they went all defense in the draft… but still see the OL as a major area of need. Draft or FA I don’t care but you can add a few pieces to both areas in the coming year without breaking the bank.
Rex Pfister - January 17, 2012
Agreed!
I want Dallas to sign a few FA for the line so that the pieces we drafted last year can grow. We should also sign Griffin, a solid NT, and a CB if we still have the money. Get the rest in the draft. This draft is filled with CBs, OG, and a few sleeper DLineman. We seriously need a legit NT!
mho - January 17, 2012 via iPhone app
It's funny that our NT makes the Pro Bowl every year.
What position would you like Rat to play when we get this legit NT you are talking about?
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
The Pro Bowl doesn't matter
It’s always been a popularity contest and because Rat plays nose for the Dallas Cowboys and he has a recognizable last name, paired with some very legit play in big time games the last four or five years, he is going to get a bid based on name value.
We need a legit run stuffing NT(I’m more sold on Brent than most however) and let Rat play more a hybrid DT/DE to fit Ryans pass rushing scheme. He’s still very good and has a spot on this team, but he can be a weakness.
Zpomero1 - January 18, 2012
actually Both Ware and Ratliff
were voted in by the coaches(who have to game plan against them) and the Players(who have to play against them…..
I would say that Rat is a legit NT…that being said he does have his flaws in that he is able to be controlled easier in a one on one situation, vs a larger NT, which would require a Double team…..
I am Ironman!!! - January 18, 2012
I'm kinda with you on your analysis
I will still watch every playoff game that I can. For me it’s kind of the same scenario of who I want to lose more. Definately the Giants are a top priority for me and being that I dislike the Patriots, same can be said. I am hoping for a SF and B’more Super Bowl with the Ravens winning it all since I am in the DC area. I do have to admit, it’s not who’s the best team….it’s who got hot at the right time. Right now I’d have to say cough the giants as much as I hate saying that..
AzDbackfanInDc - January 17, 2012
Looks like Dre Kirkpatrick got caught with pot.
I wonder if Deion was involved lol
starmesh23 - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Hope that makes him fall in the draft
All the way to #14
The Loco Llama - January 17, 2012 via mobile
C'mon Man
How can you hate the Steelers? If the Cowboys aren’t in it, then it’s all about the Steelers. They may be the enemy but I don’t hate ‘em. In fact, if a man’s power is measured by the strength of his enemies, then give me the Steelers as an enemy. Who would you rather be be measured against: the Steelers or the Eagles? Jeez, that sounds laughable. I was disappointed to see the Steelers lose.
pwl4476 - January 17, 2012
Really?
Steelers and Redskins – HATE THEM – Wish they lose every game.
eightball - January 17, 2012
Nope, not a chance
Steelers, = most hated AFC team
49ers = Most hated NFC (outside the Div, with the Packers as a close second, due to my family being a bunch of Cheeseheads)
BigBad Joe - January 17, 2012
Pretty sure I read that the Cowboys
were the most hated team in the NFL, but also the most loved team in the NFL. That’s why we are America’s Team baby!!
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
Yep
I meant my most hated team :-)
BigBad Joe - January 18, 2012
-1111111111111111111111
dave33 - January 17, 2012
How can you be a Dallas fan and EVER root for the steelers??
Dynamicduo - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Because you're Jackie Smith
birdness - January 17, 2012
I grew up in Pittsburgh
That’s how. I always liked the Cowboys, but the Steelers are a great team too. If you check, you’ll see that more than a few of the great Cowboys came from the Burgh too. The two teams are linked in more ways than one.
If you don’t see the Steelers as the superior team in the first two Super Bowls you may not be viewing the teams objectively. Jeez, they won 4 Superbowls in 6 years, that’s a helluva run.
In SB 13 the Cowboys they didn’t need Jackie Smith to help them lose, they did that in the first quarter when they ran the reverse and fumbled the ball. The Steelers had no answer for Dorsett up to that point and yet the Cowboys run a trick play. That’s just dumb.
pwl4476 - January 17, 2012
They were roided up cheaters.
thebigham - January 17, 2012
Superior Team?
You must have been out with Dre Kirkpatrick. Those first two Super Bowls were close games…where do you get superior from?
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
I didn't say that
the games weren’t close. I’m just saying that the Steeler team of the 70s was better than that of the 70s Cowboys, in my opinion. Not as much fun to watch, but a better overall team.
pwl4476 - January 18, 2012
Disagree.
Did you watch those Super Bowls? Did you watch the teams play through the 70’s? I did, and as we all know, the best team doesn’t always win. Unfortunately, teams are measured by their Super Bowl victories and not by their Super Bowl appearances or regular season success. Look at the Packers this year…one and out, does that mean they suck?
Mikellie - January 18, 2012
So yoiu're saying
that the 70s Cowboys weren’t taking any steroids? If that’s what you’re saying, do you really believe it to be true?
pwl4476 - January 18, 2012
Exactly.
The 70’s Cowboys were the epitome of self sacrifice and dedication to the game and the fans. They didn’t drink, swear, eat red meat or be unsportmanlike to any opposing player. They were absolute saints through and through.
GunsUp - January 18, 2012
The above statement was read
As Hollywood Henderson blew coke in the locker room at the half
Zpomero1 - January 18, 2012
I'm guessing
that the Cowboys players had just as much juice in them as the Steelers. It wasn’t a Pittsburgh thing it was an NFL thing.
pwl4476 - January 18, 2012
You can also gues that I'm a Cowboys Homer,
and probably FOS as well.
GunsUp - January 18, 2012
It's pretty clear that your not a cowboys fan.
Your not a steelers fan either. Your a fan of whomever is best. The steelers have been a great team over the last few years. If the packers win 3 out of the next five you’ll be a packers fan. They have a term for that it’s called band wagon. No true cowboys fan can root for the steelers. It’s impossible. Respect them? Yes, but not root for them.
Dynamicduo - January 18, 2012 via mobile
Your bi-polar personality is showing and you think you're reading my mind
I’m a Cowboy fan, plain and simple. I’ve watched just about every game that’s been broadcast where I’ve lived at the time. I drank beer with the 76-77 Cowboys team at the team hotel in Pittsburgh. I’ve spent a few minutes talking with Hollywood Henderson. My high school team played Dorset(t)s team yearly. I went to many games at Texas stadium when I lived in Arlington and Garland. I simply don’t see the conflict that you guys seem to have with the Steelers. Great teams make for great games. I want them to do good and I want the Cowboys to do better. One thing that I truly admire about the Steelers is their organization. The continuity is second to none in the league. I’d like the Cowboys to copy that model, since they’re having a little trouble in that area.
That’s all that I have to say on the Steelers and this subject in general.
pwl4476 - January 18, 2012
-22222222222222222
Mojoness - January 17, 2012
I’d be absolutely sick if the giants win sb this year. Can’t even think about it…
saidseven - January 17, 2012
Get your bucket ready.
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
looking for an earthquake in SF this weekend (j/K, kinda)….both teams lose, AFC Championship game becomes the SB and everything is over early
BigBad Joe - January 17, 2012
That AFC game will be over early anyhow.
Patriots roll.
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
Zero Interest
Was pulling for NO since the Boy’s are out. Since they were eliminated I don’t care. My wife asked me if I was sick on Sunday. I did not watch either game.
Lets get to the Draft and FA.
eightball - January 17, 2012
Yeah same here
dunkman - January 17, 2012
Your wife asked you if you were sick?
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
Mine too.
Our conversation. What games are on honey? Nothing I care to watch. Are you feeling ok? Yeah, my giveacrapper is on empty.
GunsUp - January 18, 2012
That's a standing question...
I haven’t cared at all about the playoffs so far. I prefer the Giants success over the Skins or Eagles, but there isn’t one team left I can make myself root for.
dunkman - January 18, 2012
Really, I can't fathom any of these teams winning, ill be sick.
I have been flip flopping all week on who I want to win but in reality I do not want the Giants/Eli to bring another one home, or the Patriots and Brady be cemented in greatness with 4 Superbowls(Similar to 70s Steelers and Bradshaw, overrated cheaters), I hate Baltimore as much as Philly they are one in the same, and lastly the Niners even though we got the best of them in the 90s they can’t get more Superbowls then us. Ugh thank god for skyrim right haha
thebigham - January 17, 2012
+ 1 on Skyrim
Grimlock83 - January 17, 2012
I used to try to figure out who I wanted to win in these playoffs
but then i took an arrow to the knee.
beWARE94 - January 17, 2012
+1
birdness - January 17, 2012
Watch every game, I bet on most of 'em, that will keep you interested.
I want which ever team I got money on to win, or at least cover.
DIRE WOLF - January 17, 2012
Preach it!
I have no interest whatsoever in watching these playoffs. On Saturday, I watched the German equivalent of American Idol instead of the playoffs. I think I made a good choice. And I hate American Idol.
One.Cool.Customer - January 17, 2012
Wow.
Well, you missed a helluva game between the Niners and Saints 2 weeks ago. Game of the year in my opinion. I watch every second of every game I can. I’m just a football fan 24/7/365. I don’t care if it’s Colts vs Rams.
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
As long as the Eagles don't win the SB, I don't care who does.
DIRE WOLF - January 17, 2012
+1
I’d plus more but 1 is all I need to demonstrate how many SB wins the Eagles still won’t have this year.
KeyOfZ - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Lol or +1/2
hbdc - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Ugh, this is exactly how I feel
How can I possibly cheer for somebody to win when I hate everybody? And the 49ers’ harbaugh’s face just makes me mad for some reason. I really have no idea why, but I want somebody to run into him on the sidelines a la Sean Payton.
me gusta - January 17, 2012 via mobile
One thing however
The 49ers are gonna suck next year.
So when everybody’s preaching about how great Jim Harbaugh is the Cardinals or Seahawks are gonna swoop in and expose how good of a situation he walked in to…
bitterlyhonest - January 17, 2012
Does anyone think kirkpatrick will fall to us now that he's been arrested?
me gusta - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Probably past us.
DIRE WOLF - January 17, 2012
You don't think we would take him if he fell?
It’s just weed. Maybe it’s just me, but that doesn’t bother me very much.
me gusta - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Me either, but Jerry and JG have to think that way.
DIRE WOLF - January 17, 2012
Yeah, I guess so
RKG’s and all that.
me gusta - January 17, 2012 via mobile
RKG......
does not necessarily mean a saint. I don’t think so anyways. I think it means more like a Michael Irvin. You can be a dumb@$$ off the field as long as you can make it to the field and compete and work hard while you are there. A drug suspension negates those possibilities. Goodell is not Tagliabue as well.
Jace M - January 18, 2012
Its illegal and tested for.
Fred Davis suspended 4 games. Pass.
thebigham - January 17, 2012
Puff...Pass
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
it really doesnt bother me either
but the timing bothers me
stupid as hell being reckless like that before the draft process
but his skill set should keep him in the first, should get interesting if he is there at 14
Archie Barberio - January 17, 2012
+1
The dumbass factor scares me more than the pot.
DIRE WOLF - January 17, 2012
Seriously.
He could have had years of herb for the money he threw away by dropping in the draft.
danielt - January 17, 2012
I'm sure he still will have plenty of money to spend on his weed.
Maybe he’ll do like Ricky Williams did and take a little sabbatical.
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
+100,000,000
Jesus… I was just making that same statement about Janoris Jenkins… what stupidity. Personally… if I had my ruthers on either I would take Jenkins now. He’s been clean a year now… at least I hope so… probation should have had drug testing every month at least.
Rex Pfister - January 17, 2012
A little weed ever hurt anyone
However it’s illegal. The law is the law. If you’re a pro athlete and get caugh smoking it, then you’re being selfish because you’re thinking you’re above the law and teammates bedamned. If you get caught, I have no sympathy.
Do it in the confines of your home. If you’re out an about, stand down. And don’t smoke it while driving.
Rohpuri - January 17, 2012 via mobile
What about road trips?
birdness - January 17, 2012
If your saying it's just weed, Janoris Jenkins would have probably been a top 10 pick if it wasn't for him being arrested twice for weed.
Jenkins is close in talent with Claiborne and I think has higher potential than Kirkpatrick so if we are going to draft someone with character issues I say get Jenkins.
Dynamicduo - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Between now and April he has one job - stay out of trouble before the draft
If he is willing to drop x number of draft spots for just weed, how willing is he to do something stupid before a big game?
First round picks are too valuable to gamble on a troubled player. That why some guys fall way beyond their talent level.
birdness - January 17, 2012
what if...
…this was a premeditated act to have a chance to play for a team he really wants to? :)
i mean, he does not need to pull an Eli Manning and tell that he doesn’t want to play for a mediocre team. he just made it well in time, won’t need to act like a hissy little girl, and hopefully had a few minutes he had been really high.
plus it is not that huge drop in contract money since the new CBA was signed.
but you can label this comment as just another conspiracy theory, of course :)
slowmotion80 - January 18, 2012
how does that fit in with the Right Kinda Guy philosophy?
scraig - January 17, 2012
Couldn't agree with you more...
After much consternation, I have to pull for Baltimore. They don’t pose any threat to the Cowboys history of Superbowls, they are what I like to call a “non”. After that, I guess I have to, and I do mean have to, pull for the Patriots. Even though they would pull to within one of Superbowls and be officially called a dynasty for the 2000’s.
So, here is my wish scenario – Baltimore goes on a run and their defense wins their second championship over the Giants.
OR
The Patriots come in with a healthy Brady this time around (no lucky bounces for the Giants this time around in all categories) and put a beating on the Giants, ala 2001 (a year they also didn’t deserve to be in the main game). Give the pats their due and get ready for the rematches with the Giants next year with a stronger offensive line, a defense that has added a few more pieces, another pure pass rusher (free agency? I dont know) a new corner and Dez Bryant (who by the way is much stronger, faster and electrifying than Cruz of the Giants any day of the week) with another year of maturity…
and then maybe, just maybe we can put all these Giants shenanigans, winning on luck, to bed for good and also put to rest the flash in the pan 49’ers. Also, Big Ben will be ANOTHER year older, slower and even more injury prone…..
Ahhhhhhh, that felt good to get out…..
manhattan - January 17, 2012
You... You're in my mind...
That is my best case scenario exactly.
me gusta - January 17, 2012 via mobile
I like this
Rohpuri - January 17, 2012 via mobile
I don't.
The mere credibility it gives Eli Manning (for the record, very good…yes…quarterback) sucks. Shut up Tuck, I’m not down with JPP, and Brandon Jac… can’t stand to say the name. F the Giants on all levels. Right in their face.
I’ll take the Ravens for $1000, Alex. I live in CT. Patriots fans are insufferable.
Nickthegrip - January 17, 2012
the only problem i would have with the Ravens winning the SB is
i could not stand them winning a ring for another caretaker QB.
i have seen enough of them (Dilfer, Brad Johnson) to say it’s not fair.
slowmotion80 - January 18, 2012
December 21st 2012 can't get here fast enough
TARHEEL PAUL - January 17, 2012
Good game America
thebigham - January 17, 2012
I'm building an underground shelter right now
For my family and all my favorite Cowboys. Bennett and Newman are not allowed.
me gusta - January 17, 2012 via mobile
crossing fingers
newman will not be a cowboy by then
BigBad Joe - January 17, 2012
he won't be a cowboy by june
Rohpuri - January 17, 2012 via mobile
I'm going on a limb
By 12-21-2012, the Dallas Cowboys will have already clinched a playoff spot.
Rohpuri - January 17, 2012 via mobile
That would be our luck.
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
As long as the world ends with the Eagles having no Lombardies
I can live er- die with that…
dunkman - January 18, 2012
Kd you should be used to not seeing your team in the playoffs.
All Dallas fans understand that the draft is the high lite of the year…. That’s when hope abounds at it’s most fervent pitch. The party will be the reason for the superbowl as it is every year sans Dallas.
football mensa - January 17, 2012
I'm in thr draft DeCastro Camp
And I’m not saying completely ignore the defense. You can still get nice players in rounds 2-7, and in FA.
Rohpuri - January 17, 2012 via mobile
I'm glad that dumbfounded face of Dave Campo's
Is no longer manning the Cowboys sidelines.
Yeah he was here during the glory years. Good for him. He was a puppet babysitter prior to Parcells, as was evidenced by his inability to inspire the team especially on Hard Knocks (that was a joke) building up the whole summer to beat Houston and then come out opening week and have the 2002 season end before week 2.
If that’s not enough, he came back under the Wade regime and we saw the play of our DBs get progressively worse. Sure part of it was declining talent, but part of it was also an innability to teach proper technique, and having guys never make plays on the ball. In his second stint with Dallas I’ll always remember his befuddled throwing his arms up in frustration at Minnesotta, him and Wade yelling at each other in the Vikings playoff game, TNew and him yelling at each other earlier in the 2009 season, and watching the DBs go out with a bang in 2011 as the get torched by every team less Tampa Bay following the beat down of Buffalo.
Rohpuri - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Check Out the Drop Rate on Dez
http://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2012/01/17/drop-rate-2011-which-receivers-are-dropping-the-ball/
Mighty Blue Star - January 17, 2012
Dez is a beast
Rohpuri - January 17, 2012 via mobile
With each passing minute
I’m hating the NFC championship more and more, which means I have to root for an AFC team (which makes me want to puke)
Antonio S - January 17, 2012
Just hope that both games are as exciting as the Saints/Niners game
and it will make them more bearable to watch.
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
I'm witchya my homey.
I’ll save you some time. Both the Harbaughs will crash to earth this weekend and we will get to witness ANOTHER Pats/Giants SB. The Giants will bring home the bacon. It’s a lose-lose situation any way it goes from here. I’d rather have a stomach virus than watch this play out..
Benthere - January 17, 2012
Ravens are the only team I can remotely root for.
As far as the Pack and the Saints losses, the Saints game could have gone either way. SF is a pretty complete team with a serviceable QB, very good receivers and a talented running back. The Pack played horribly with 8 dropped passes, 3 lost fumbles and questionable decisions, the onside kick in the first half to name one.
We on the other hand can field an elite O if we protect Romo and a top 10 D (not an elite one) with 2-3 additions that will make us more than competetive. I still think we go BPA this draft and if DeCastro is there at #14 run to the podium……….
pfloyd1 - January 17, 2012
I feel your pain.
Every Manning is slicing the Packers defense apart comment from Joe Blow Buck and Troy even though Manning had time to slice salami and make a sandwich while waiting for an uncovered Cruz to get open. Jealous? Yes. Convinced that Eli is that good? NO! We have heard announcers talk about holes opened for running backs by saying "My grandmother could have scored that touchdown! Well the same is true when a Quarterback has passing drill like time to find a receiver. The Packers all-pro linebackers made Spencer look good. Well maybe I exaggerate.
50yrcowboy - January 17, 2012
I don't think so...
Not much exaggeration there… and earlier this morning I had a Dallas fan tell me to give Eli his due… Eli is Elite… I almost puked up my coffee. And that coming from a Yank who lives there. Ugh. I could have hit a wide open Cruz after I finished my grilled ham and cheese… and drank my afternoon coffee…. oh yea I forgot and also while holding the morning sports page… That reads “Eli Sucks!” in my non-throwing hand for balance.
Rex Pfister - January 17, 2012
I think we all feel that way
these playoffs suck. the only scenario i could think of that would have been worse based on all the teams that were in the playoffs would have been pats vs pitt AFC championship and giants vs 9ers NFC championship. almost got that.
im hoping for a a ravens victory. i dont want the pats to get another. I sure as hell don’t want the giants and 9ers to get more.
I’m not sure who i’d want to lose more in the NFC championship. my first pick is giants of course but i live in the SF bay area and don’t think i can take more gloating from them. although it might be worth winning this week and then losing in the SB. they gloat that they have a perfect record in the SB 5 for 5. 5 for 6 sounds good.
beWARE94 - January 17, 2012
I got some friends out in norcal
san jose/ morgan hill to be exact & they were telling me before the gold diggers won this past weekend that most of the fans sounded depressed saying they didn’t have much of a chance lol & now after they won they’re all on alex’s sack now.. Yup typical frisco fans for ya, heard they were like that before montana came on board as well.. $#*t if the boys are are in the div rd playing @ home I’m hyped i don’t give a damn who they’re playing.. Guess i gotta pull for the ravens by default but that still sickens me cause flacco is a joke.
DarkKnight88 - January 18, 2012
If the Giants win
It won’t matter what we do next year. They will be the media darling New York team and we can fly under the radar.
I guess given the either/or scenario I would rather them win.
Mojoness - January 17, 2012
By process of elimination I'm rooting for Baltimore, the least of 4 evils.
pfloyd1 - January 17, 2012
I have no
problem seeing the Giants do well in the playoffs. The Saints and Packers were one dimensional on offense and perhaps that hurt them more then their poor defensive play.
Anthony1 - January 17, 2012
Ummmm New Orleans... one demensional ???
You know they had a three back tandem that was incredible… Darren Sproles led the league and broke an NFL record in all purpose yards. Piere friggin Thomas and Chris Ivory. I’m not sure how one dimensional they were or maybe you are just delusional… jk
Rex Pfister - January 17, 2012
they were one dimensional vs the 49ers... but they rank 6th in the league in rushing yards
they were one dimensional as a team meaning they didn’t need to be good on defense since they ate up the clock… 35 minutes per game with an average defense, ranked 24th. But even at that they limited the other team to 21 ppg so that was pretty adequate.
scraig - January 17, 2012
I want the Ravens to win it
Good ’ol Ray Ray (Lewis) deserves another ring and that team can ball too. Also the only team I am sure can beat both NFC teams which I would hate to see either win a super bowl.
ProBowlFactory - January 17, 2012
Good Ol' Ray
Needs to assist someone else with a murder. Then go dancing on the sideline. Then shut his cakehole.
And no, I’d never say it to Ray Lewis’ face, but I am an interwebs tough guy.
Nickthegrip - January 17, 2012
I would he's a punk.
All of the Ravens are. They embrace it too.
thebigham - January 17, 2012
I think its great, defense wins championships
SF vs Baltimore… I like it. If the Giants get there, well, it was because of their defense. We beat SF because of matchup problems that they’ve fixed, everywhere else they are solid in coverage and they bring enough pressure to ease the load on the secondary.
I could see NE getting past Baltimore but I think whoever they face will be a tough challenge for brady and company…
scraig - January 17, 2012
NE Passing game is so precise...
You have to have great ILB to play even with NE… there TE will kill you mid to long passing. Even saw them run him out of the backfield like a running back. Brady doesn’t read he’s read before he steps under center and throws to a point and the receiver has to get there. Getting to Brady you have to be quick, you have to close off all routes and play all the receivers tight. You have to get into the backfield quick and break down his pass blocking by throwing some curves and blitzing from unexpected locations… show blitz here and come from there. Belichek is smart and knows how to make changes at half time… Brady thinks on his feet well so you have to be able to switch quickly.
Rex Pfister - January 17, 2012
sounds like you're talking about the '93 Cowboys, Aikman and Norv Turner
scraig - January 17, 2012
Except that Brady is a lot better than Aikman was.
I loved the 93 Cowboys as a team, but Aikman never had great numbers as a QB.
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
Aikman was one of the most accurate passers ever.
Why would he need great numbers with a running back like #22?
thebigham - January 18, 2012
Agree
Brady has better numbers, but that doesn’t mean Aikman wasn’t capable of that had the team need that. But Dallas was most definitely a running team, and one of the best ever.
dunkman - January 18, 2012
+70 (22+48)
BigBad Joe - January 18, 2012
Totally agree with all of you.
Strictly talking about numbers. Brady will be a HOFer just like Aikman. Totally different styles and both work. Cowboys have 2 QB/RB combos in the HOF…Staubach/Dorsett, and Aikman/Smith. The Steelers have 1 Bradshaw/Harris. I believe that is it for the team combos. So the Cowboys were definitely the most balanced teams of the 70’s and 90’s.
Mikellie - January 18, 2012
Combo or not , the Steelers have their own hall in the Hall.
football mensa - January 18, 2012
Steelers Suck, period.
Mikellie - January 18, 2012
Troy was never about stats.
pfloyd1 - January 18, 2012
That's right. Glad he wasn't.
I don’t think Tony is either.
Mikellie - January 18, 2012
You and I are likethis, except for two things. I am a Texan, and the Texan
fans and media have turned me off of ever rooting for their team. Second, I will not give Manning 2 credit unless he gets past a team with an actual D without looking like Dumb Face again and without his D leaking like a sieve. And yes, that’s partly out of my resentment that the Eli love frequently involves direct or indirect shots at Romo. Lesser stats this year, FAR better D than ours, and a better O line. Color me not impressed. Call me a homer. Call it sour grapes. I don’t care.
Fernie67 - January 17, 2012
It's possible to be objective
To enjoy watching Eli and Romo without hating either guy.
I respect the Giants. That’s a model franchise that I wish Dallas once again strove to be better than.
Rohpuri - January 17, 2012 via mobile
It's possible for you.
Fernie67 - January 17, 2012
I can't stand the Ravens, I will never root for the 49ers.
I look at this way. I want to be entertained, I don’t a boring Joe Flacco vs Alex Smith game. Yeah Brady vs Eli in the SB was a 17-14 game, but it was a fun game to watch, as the Giants were holding the top offense to under their average.
I want to see an even better Eli vs Brady in a rematch. I want to see the Giants receivers vs Pats patchwork secondary. I want to see the Pats TEs vs Giants LBs and secondary. I want to see the Pats OLINE vs Giants Front 4.
Who would’ve thought that Eli has a chance to win more SBs than Peyton. Think about it, Peyton in the Manning Box Seats with that awkward look on his face like he’s happy for his brother and pissed off all the same time, being forced to choose between pulling for Eli to best him, or for Brady to win #4 and leave Peyton with a chance to break the tie.
Can the Hoodie tie Chuck Knoll for most SB titles as a HC?
I want to see this game.
I don’t want my SB littered with Joe Flacco vs Alex Smith. I don’t want a Harbaugh love fest.
Rohpuri - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Great Post
I feel your pain. And you know Jethro is saying that the Cowboys as currently constructed are as good as the Giants, so there will be no need for any major changes this off season!
byopp - January 17, 2012
SF-Giants will be a good matchup... Giants had a tough time scoring until late in the game last time
scraig - January 17, 2012
I think the thing I hate most of all about this
Is the Eli Manning factor.
The dude just tosses it up and has receivers make insane catches, and he’s the savior.
Brandon Worley - January 17, 2012
I don't like the Gmen
Eli used to suck, he has grown into a good QB, he gives his WRs a chance.
Those wR bastages just make great plays
birdness - January 17, 2012
My feelings exactly.
Fernie67 - January 17, 2012
Dez can make all those plays
but Romo doesn’t throw it up there like Eli to give him a chance to. Wish he would though, especially in the Red Zone.
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
Like, like, one million times over.
MP-17 - January 19, 2012
I hate the New York Giants, that is all
djthumpl - January 17, 2012
Pretty much.
I mean…I don’t give a rat’s behind what the Ravens do. In fact, I’d love to see a boring Ravens team win it all again.
Brandon Worley - January 17, 2012
Yup.
Fernie67 - January 17, 2012
It sucks to look at these teams and see that the Giants may be the best left.
I’m sure the NFL is hoping for a NE-NY rematch. Which will be absolutely painful no matter which team wins.
Tom Ryle - January 17, 2012
PG County Native
…and not a skins fan? Blasphemy! I’m with you, boys fan since mid 70’s here and worked at Andrews AFB 17 of last 22 years, due to military/gov. Listen to 105.7 the fan during commute, sick of hearing of how great ravens are every year…enjoy ESPN 980 slammin their own skins! BTW, 1st comment ever on any site, been reading this great site for 2 years
geezboys - January 17, 2012 via mobile
welcome GeezBoyz
Here is your Newbie Rec. Feel free to continue Commenting
I am Ironman!!! - January 17, 2012
Thank you Ironman
The welcome is very much appreciated!
geezboys - January 17, 2012 via Android app
np...
but seriously…join in…even if you don’t think you have anything to add, a different set of Eyes is always appreciated
I am Ironman!!! - January 18, 2012
I just love seeing PG County highlighted on a Texas sports blog
Newbie Rec rocks :)
KD Drummond - January 18, 2012
I just love being in PG County...
when the skins are below the boys in the standings!
Great article KD, was wondering if others felt the same as me about this years playoffs.
geezboys - January 18, 2012 via Android app
I hate the 49ers.
I can’t stand their fans. I’m hoping NYG embarrases them, then Brady and co. get their revenge.
BrickTop - January 17, 2012 via mobile
Horrible. Left rooting fo rthe Ravens through process of elimination.
49ers’ 6th SB?? No thanks!
Giants and Eli?? Puke!!
Patriots wrap up another cheap Salary Cap appearance?? No way!!
Ravens?? Who cares. Go for it.
Realist Larry - January 17, 2012
Love watching the playoffs, with or without the Cowboys
Terry - January 17, 2012
Right on!
Mikellie - January 17, 2012
There are 2 teams with good offenses still in it, too.
I know that we are now doing revisionist history and pretending that the Giants had an elite defense this year, but they did not. They were 27th in the NFL. Meanwhile, their offense was 8th. That means that their offense was better than ours and their defense worse. That’s also true of the Patriots.
I’d love to have a D like the Ravens or 49ers, but we are more than 1 year away from that. By the time we have the complimentary pieces to Ware and Ratliff to have that, it may be time to replace those two. However, picking DeCastro at 1 and getting a decent FA lineman immediately puts in the elite offense category. Combine that with improvement on D, and we can get the one more win that we needed to get to the playoffs, and probably a few more than that.
Baked Potato Soup - January 17, 2012
The biggest problem we face
Is that when or if our defense ever gets fixed it will be two years from now.
By then our two biggest pieces on offense will need to be replaced.
The clock is ticking on Romo and Witten.
Time to come to the realization they won’t be here when we are supposedly ready to compete. .
Sharksbreath - January 18, 2012
Romo has atleast 5 years left.
thebigham - January 18, 2012
I agree about Romo.
If we can get an O-Line that can block, he can last at least 4 more at an elite level. Witten, I’m not so sure about, and Bennet doesn’t seem to want to challenge him.
GunsUp - January 18, 2012
Not if he keeps taking beatings like he has the past few years.
Baked Potato Soup - January 18, 2012
true
thebigham - January 18, 2012
^This
thebigham - January 18, 2012
Their defense began playing at an elite level late in the season, and their record
reflected it.
Fernie67 - January 18, 2012
So does that mean the 49ers are now an elite offense and not a good defense?
Because in their latest game, they had over 400 yards offense and their D allowed over 450. They’ve scored at least 34 points in their past 2 games and allowed at least 27. And their record reflects this change in philosophy, as they won both games. If those had been their numbers all year, they would be #3 offense and #27 defense.
Baked Potato Soup - January 18, 2012
Oops.
Baked Potato Soup - January 18, 2012
You're going to cherry pick two games for SF vs. the last six games
for the Giants? The stats don’t nearly tell the story for that defense. As for SF, do you really want to include their game against probably the best offense in the NFL and their QB who is an MVP candidate? If you do, then I guess their D isn’t elite.
Fernie67 - January 19, 2012
So your cherry picking is more accurate than my cherry picking?
Why wouldn’t I include SF’s game against the Saints, as I also included their game against the Rams where their performance was similar? If we’re going by quality of opponent, that would eliminate all of the Giants games that you cited, other than the Packers.
Is it because the recent performances of the 49ers don’t fit the Defense wins championships theory as well as using just the most recent performance of the Giants, so for one team you want to use season long performance, and for the other you only want to use a few games that fit your theory?
Baked Potato Soup - January 20, 2012
I'm joining the... Montrae Holland bandwagon, I'd like him re-signed and say goodbye to Kosier and Dockery
Also think we should draft an interior lineman and expect Arkin and Nagy to compete for spots. There are not many interior linemen that will go high in the draft so I don’t expect too much there. We need to develop Costa, Kowalski, Arkin and Nagy.
scraig - January 17, 2012
I wonder how many cheese heads
will be calling for the retirement of Rogers and the firing of their head coach?
GunsUp - January 18, 2012
None
they are all starting the long hibernation for the long winter :-)
BigBad Joe - January 18, 2012
LOL.
Fernie67 - January 18, 2012
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