The End Zone

1. The Jets strength coach got suspended for tripping a Dolphins player and more is being made about this than the Jets overall play over the last two weeks. Is everyone missing the real story?

KDC: It appears something has been going on all year. I'm guessing Rex Ryan knew something about them lining up at the sideline during punt returns, but didn't ever foresee that idiot purposely tripping a player. Expect another rule from the NFL on this.

Momo: This tripping story is overshadowing the Jets overall play. Sanchez has been nearly benched, they haven’t scored a touchdown in the last 10 or 12 quarters. Their defense got shredded by the Patriots and everyone is talking about the tripping of an opposing player. Rex Ryan and his team actually is benefitting from the coverage that Alosi is receiving. I’m not even sure with the Jets remaining schedule that they make the playoffs.


2. Can anyone beat the Patriots?

KDC: Besides the Cleveland Browns? Colt McCoy is back. Ya gotta believe! :)
I think the Saints can. But probably not many others. Pittsburgh never matches up well w/New England, I think the Ravens aren't quite there any more, the Falcons are too young (probably) & unless the Giants or some other team suddenly solidifies, the Patriots have a great shot at Championship #4 under Belicheck. Please God, no!

Momo: The problem I see, and this going to get really technical is defenses don’t play the Patriots right. The Steelers should match up well with them but they don’t play man to man against the Pats. You have to knock those small receivers down and not let them get their little five yard passing plays. Also, you have to blitz the living daylights out of Brady. You cannot give him time to pick you apart.

Its interesting that the two teams who are not afraid of the Pats offense and a play them tough are the Colts and the Ravens. Two defenses that are polar opposites of each other BUT they play their game and don’t let the Pats dictate their offense on them.


3. What showdown this weekend are you looking forward to- Jax-Indy, Eagles-Giants, or Saints-Ravens?

KDC: Jacksonville-Indy could be a great dogfight, but Jax has the momentum. I think the Saints-Ravens will prove to us where both teams stand for long-term playoff aspirations. At present, I'd say the Saints will win by a touchdown or more.
For some reason, I don't give 2 figs about the Eagles-Giants game.

Momo: I agree on the Jax-Indy should be a good one. This is it for the Colts and I think since they are playing at home they will come out blazing. However, the Jags will probably upset them because of their running game.
The Saints –Ravens is interesting because the Ravens defense is not what it used to be. The intriguing part will be if the Ravens offense can keep pace and maybe steal a win. It’s kind of odd that the Ravens are transitioning to a offense team with a good but not great defense.