For those who are obsessing about tonight's weather (1 Viewer)

[Lord Fantasy]

Courtesy of the Chicago Tribune website . . . I present to you . . . oh fine field-condition worriers and weather hand-wringers (like me) . . . Soldier Field!

 

[p00h]

Seeing those shots doesn't quiet my concern about the weather at gametime. Expecting some percipitation. Key thing I need to know is winds. How bad will the winds be?!?!?!?! WON'T SOMEBODY THINK OF THE CHILDREN!!!

 

[offdee]

Anybody have any thoughts about the Kicking game tonight....would this be an upgrade or downgrade for Hartley and Gould?

 

[KingEl]

everything I'm reading seems relatively mild--- low 20's, wind 10-20...

keep in mind, Brees threw the ball quiet well in a downpoar with 25mph winds in Tampa a couple of weeks back... Those int's made it look bad, but that wasn't because of the wind, just mistakes... he still approached 300 yds

The cold and some gust may have an effect, but he still will get chances and, hopefully, good #'s.

 

[Chaka]

Big Hugs.

 

[Alex96]

I'm more worried about the field. Playing in Soldier Field is like playing on sand. I'm still starting Bush in my PPR, though.

 

[KellysHeroes]

I got my choice of Orton or Cassel; I like orton better at Home against a high scoring team than Cassel travel across the country.

Unless I hear otherwise about bad weather, Kyle Orton is my starter...

 

[ConstruxBoy]

I got my choice of Orton or Cassel; I like orton better at Home against a high scoring team than Cassel travel across the country.Unless I hear otherwise about bad weather, Kyle Orton is my starter...

FYI - I read somewhere that there was a chance Cassel wouldn't play because of his Dad's death. I'd go with Orton to be sure.

 

[pantagrapher]

Seems like the field looks fine from a distance. Of course, it always does.

 

[puckalicious]

Oh noes they had to remove almost 3mm of snow and paint letters!! Gonna be a crzy game!

 

[Football Menace]

Big Hugs.

I found myself more interested in that too!

 

[Mustang Man]

I got my choice of Orton or Cassel; I like orton better at Home against a high scoring team than Cassel travel across the country.

Unless I hear otherwise about bad weather, Kyle Orton is my starter...

FYI - I read somewhere that there was a chance Cassel wouldn't play because of his Dad's death. I'd go with Orton to be sure.

Yep you are right. One plus though I believe the Pats just stayed on the left coast after the Seattle game, so they did not have to travel very far and deal with time zone changes to get to Oakland. I would still stay away from Cassel with the death of his father and no practice time.Here is the story from ESPN.

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- New England Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel left the team Wednesday to join his family following the death of his father earlier in the week.

"Our thoughts are with him and his family during this time," coach Bill Belichick said before practice. "Right now we're just taking it day to day. He's going to take care of what he has to do."

Matt Cassel

Cassel

Belichick said that Greg Cassel died Monday night and Matt has left the team to be with his family in Southern California. Belichick said he didn't know when Cassel would rejoin the team or whether he would be able to start Sunday against the Oakland Raiders.

The Patriots are practicing this week in San Jose. They stayed on the West Coast after last Sunday's 24-21 win in Seattle.

Cassel's teammates expressed their condolences for his loss and offered whatever support they could.

"It's a part of life," defensive lineman Richard Seymour said. "It's one thing that will happen to all of us someday. It's a tough situation. I don't think you're ever prepared for it. We support him and his family."

Matt Cassel is from Northridge in the Los Angeles area and his father and mother Barbara divorced when he was 14. Greg Cassel was a script writer.

Belichick had to go through the difficulty of the death of his father, Steve, during the 2005 season.

"It's bigger than football," Belichick said. "I've been through that during the season as well, a personal situation you just have to deal with, and as I said, our thoughts and prayers are with him."

Cassel has completed 64 percent of his passes since taking over for the injured Tom Brady in the season opener. He has thrown for 3,052 yards, with 14 touchdowns and 10 interceptions, looking better and better as the season has progressed.

If Cassel was unable to start this week, the Patriots (8-5) would likely have to turn to rookie Kevin O'Connell, a third-round pick out of San Diego State with four career passes.

O'Connell played briefly at the end of a blowout loss in Miami in September, completing three of four passes for 25 yards in the 38-13 defeat. The only other quarterback on the roster is Matt Gutierrez, who threw his only career pass as a rookie last season.

"Kevin learns every week," Belichick said. "He's a smart guy. Football is important to him he works hard at it and I think he gets better on a daily basis. He's getting better through the course of the year in the opportunities that he's had, which have been limited. But he's always ready to go when we put him in there.

Even though the Patriots are playing the struggling Raiders (3-10), they can ill afford a slip-up because of the tight AFC East race. New England is locked in a three-way tie with Miami and the New York Jets with three games to go.

The Patriots have remained in contention despite Brady's injury and believe that O'Connell could step in if need be.

"I haven't really seen much on him as far as game-time situations," defensive back Ellis Hobbs said. "We'll find out together. In practice he definitely has a strong arm on him, can throw the deep ball, can throw the intermediate routes. Just like any quarterback we have, they're great in the system. They can go and just put the ball wherever we need and let our skilled players do the rest."

 

[Birdie048]

everything I'm reading seems relatively mild--- low 20's, wind 10-20... keep in mind, Brees threw the ball quiet well in a downpoar with 25mph winds in Tampa a couple of weeks back... Those int's made it look bad, but that wasn't because of the wind, just mistakes... he still approached 300 yds The cold and some gust may have an effect, but he still will get chances and, hopefully, good #'s.

And just think, 2 of those INT's were in the End Zone (1 was a deflection). His stat's could have been a whole lot better (including me winning and taking the division had he not thrown them)...I don't think the forecast will cause him problems. He may not have a great winning % in cold weather, but he is still a Must Play for me! *my other choice is Cassel.

 

[bshell27]

I am south of Chicago and all I know for tonight is that it is going to be COLD. There is not a cloud in the sky this afternoon, but it is very cold. Too bad they don't play Sunday, forecast is 50 degrees and Sunny!

 

[Black]

everything I'm reading seems relatively mild--- low 20's, wind 10-20... keep in mind, Brees threw the ball quiet well in a downpoar with 25mph winds in Tampa a couple of weeks back... Those int's made it look bad, but that wasn't because of the wind, just mistakes... he still approached 300 yds The cold and some gust may have an effect, but he still will get chances and, hopefully, good #'s.

How was the weather in London when NO played SD where they won 37-32.? That was pretty crappy and here's some stats. Brees 30/41, 339/3 rushD. McAllister 18 rush 55 yds, 1 P. Thomas 3 rush 28 yards, 0 recL. Moore 6 90 1 B. Miller 7 82 0 M. Colston 2 56 0 D. Henderson 3 34 1 D. McAllister 4 30 0 A. Stecker 5 27 0 Brees did have that crazy -26 yard run and safety....

 

[Lord Lucan]

everything I'm reading seems relatively mild--- low 20's, wind 10-20... keep in mind, Brees threw the ball quiet well in a downpoar with 25mph winds in Tampa a couple of weeks back... Those int's made it look bad, but that wasn't because of the wind, just mistakes... he still approached 300 yds The cold and some gust may have an effect, but he still will get chances and, hopefully, good #'s.

How was the weather in London when NO played SD where they won 37-32.? That was pretty crappy and here's some stats. Brees 30/41, 339/3 rushD. McAllister 18 rush 55 yds, 1 P. Thomas 3 rush 28 yards, 0 recL. Moore 6 90 1 B. Miller 7 82 0 M. Colston 2 56 0 D. Henderson 3 34 1 D. McAllister 4 30 0 A. Stecker 5 27 0 Brees did have that crazy -26 yard run and safety....

The weather in London that day was not an issue, despite plenty of anxiety on this board beforehand...More pertinent is the fact that Brees threw for over 300 yards in temperatures in the high 20s in Soldier Field in December 2007 and the previous season's play-offs.

 

[Abstract]

Big Hugs.

I found myself more interested in that too!

I think that caught everyones attention.

 

[Lord Fantasy]

Big Hugs.

I found myself more interested in that too!

I think that caught everyones attention.

The GIANT RABBIT, while not as erotically charged, is also of interest.

 

[scientist]

Here's some qualitative insight. I was able to walk a half mile to the bus stop today without gloves or a sock hat and my hands/ears get cold easily. The wind was not cutting through my pants as it was earlier this week. The time it takes for my dog to take a dump in the morning is directly correlated to how cold it is, he took about twice as long as he had through last week. I'll give a post-lunch update from Michigan Ave 2.5 miles north of Soldier Field.

 

[jaybebo]

Hhhmmm...then I should consider Rivers over Orton this week...???

 

[Deuce'sWild]

I seriously cannot fathom how owners have much better options than Brees. I have Schaub, and if he had a really juicy matchup...perhaps. But Brees is on record pace. I think you have to stick with him when money is on the line.

 

[humphrp]

Here's some qualitative insight. I was able to walk a half mile to the bus stop today without gloves or a sock hat and my hands/ears get cold easily. The wind was not cutting through my pants as it was earlier this week. The time it takes for my dog to take a dump in the morning is directly correlated to how cold it is, he took about twice as long as he had through last week. I'll give a post-lunch update from Michigan Ave 2.5 miles north of Soldier Field.

Now that is the kind of weather forecast I can count on.

 

[KellysHeroes]

Here's some qualitative insight. I was able to walk a half mile to the bus stop today without gloves or a sock hat and my hands/ears get cold easily. The wind was not cutting through my pants as it was earlier this week. The time it takes for my dog to take a dump in the morning is directly correlated to how cold it is, he took about twice as long as he had through last week. I'll give a post-lunch update from Michigan Ave 2.5 miles north of Soldier Field.

Now that is the kind of weather forecast I can count on.

but seriously SP.. thanks for the homer update; I'll check back later and hope to read your update

 

[yellowdog]

Here's some qualitative insight. I was able to walk a half mile to the bus stop today without gloves or a sock hat and my hands/ears get cold easily. The wind was not cutting through my pants as it was earlier this week. The time it takes for my dog to take a dump in the morning is directly correlated to how cold it is, he took about twice as long as he had through last week. I'll give a post-lunch update from Michigan Ave 2.5 miles north of Soldier Field.

Now that is the kind of weather forecast I can count on.

Please give us a dumpometer report 30 minutes before kickoff. TIA

 

[Crusaderfan]

Here's some qualitative insight. I was able to walk a half mile to the bus stop today without gloves or a sock hat and my hands/ears get cold easily. The wind was not cutting through my pants as it was earlier this week. The time it takes for my dog to take a dump in the morning is directly correlated to how cold it is, he took about twice as long as he had through last week. I'll give a post-lunch update from Michigan Ave 2.5 miles north of Soldier Field.

Are we talking a Lab dump or a Schnauzer dump?

 

[eric rymer]

Big Hugs.

I found myself more interested in that too!

I think that caught everyones attention.

The GIANT RABBIT, while not as erotically charged, is also of interest.

Miss North Carolina. Chelsea Cooley Is she one of Cooley's angels? Also looking forward to the dumpometer prior to gametime.

 

[Man who'd fire the Yorks]

Cold or not as long as Brees throws the ball and opens running lanes for Pierre Thomas to put up numbers close to last year in front of his home town crowd.

 

[Tommax]

The Chicago forecast comes out of O'Hare Airport, which is quite a ways from Soldier Field. If the temp drops fast near the lake the wind kicks up gusts. I remember a national game 1 or 2 years ago where a 40 yard field goal turned right and missed crossing the end zone.

 

[Cleat Spike]

Seeing the field gets me jacked...I find myself wanting to play my Bears tonight (Olsen and Hester), over similar type talent and matchups, just so I can see them early! Sorta like Christmas Eve! Should be a good game...I like these guys at home.

 

[Statcruncher]

Here's some qualitative insight. I was able to walk a half mile to the bus stop today without gloves or a sock hat and my hands/ears get cold easily. The wind was not cutting through my pants as it was earlier this week. The time it takes for my dog to take a dump in the morning is directly correlated to how cold it is, he took about twice as long as he had through last week. I'll give a post-lunch update from Michigan Ave 2.5 miles north of Soldier Field.

I don't always use sig's, but when I do, I prefer scientist's.

 

[Justloveit]

It's not just Brees this affects.

Colston, Moore, Heston owners are in a bind also.

 

[Native]

Wind tonight is expected to be 10 MPH according to weather.gov. Will go up to 13 MPH after the game (around 11:00).

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?w...=0&marine=1

 

[by_tor]

I seriously cannot fathom how owners have much better options than Brees. I have Schaub, and if he had a really juicy matchup...perhaps. But Brees is on record pace. I think you have to stick with him when money is on the line.

in a qb-centric IDP league, i have both Brees and Cutler facing CHI and CAR respectively.-leaning towards Cutler but i've got compelling reasons against both due to heavy neg points for sacks & turnovers

 

[RudeDog]

I got my choice of Orton or Cassel; I like orton better at Home against a high scoring team than Cassel travel across the country.Unless I hear otherwise about bad weather, Kyle Orton is my starter...

FYI - I read somewhere that there was a chance Cassel wouldn't play because of his Dad's death. I'd go with Orton to be sure.

I heard Favre contacted Cassel and told him he should play through it.

 

[MDSkinner]

I know you guys are all about Brees (I would be too if I owned him) but I may be basing whether or not to start Orton this week based on the dumpomiter. Both Purdue guys could have big games tonight I am thinking.

 

[pantagrapher]

Weather won't be a factor. Field condition will be.

 

[bshell27]

I got my choice of Orton or Cassel; I like orton better at Home against a high scoring team than Cassel travel across the country.Unless I hear otherwise about bad weather, Kyle Orton is my starter...

FYI - I read somewhere that there was a chance Cassel wouldn't play because of his Dad's death. I'd go with Orton to be sure.

I heard Favre contacted Cassel and told him he should play through it.

Bad joke or serious news? If so, where is the link to this story?

 

[meeka]

Here's some qualitative insight. I was able to walk a half mile to the bus stop today without gloves or a sock hat and my hands/ears get cold easily. The wind was not cutting through my pants as it was earlier this week. The time it takes for my dog to take a dump in the morning is directly correlated to how cold it is, he took about twice as long as he had through last week. I'll give a post-lunch update from Michigan Ave 2.5 miles north of Soldier Field.

Now that is the kind of weather forecast I can count on.

I could dress based on my dogs morning dump. Here in MN, seconds matter.

 

[Giantseasonticketholder]

I hope this means a lot of Pierre Thomas tonight!!

 

[ourmanflint]

It's not just Brees this affects.

Colston, Moore, Heston owners are in a bind also.

I really do wish ole Chuck was gonna be out there catching balls.

 

[MCguidance]

What are the field conditions? Bad for Bush and Co?

 

[tribecalledjeff]

I got my choice of Orton or Cassel; I like orton better at Home against a high scoring team than Cassel travel across the country.Unless I hear otherwise about bad weather, Kyle Orton is my starter...

FYI - I read somewhere that there was a chance Cassel wouldn't play because of his Dad's death. I'd go with Orton to be sure.

I heard Favre contacted Cassel and told him he should play through it.

Bad joke or serious news? If so, where is the link to this story?

Do you actually think this might be a serious story?

What are the field conditions? Bad for Bush and Co?

If only there were a thread devoted to this.

 

[Manster]

Brees got me to the playoffs, so i aint changin now. besides, last i heard 20's with 10 mph winds. that doesnt seem too bad at all.

 

[two_dollars]

I need help really fast!

Colston or Moss this week!

 

[the spanker]

Can Shockey get his first score of the year tonight?

 

[twbillingsley]

Whats do you guys think Orton will do tonight?

He may be a sneaky play.

The Saints have been tough against the run of late. And If Brees is on fire and the Saints jump out front the Bears will be forced to throw the ball.

What do you guys think?

 

[big_donkey]

Can Shockey get his first score of the year tonight?

I have to choose between Shockey and Olsen tonight. With Booker out, i'm laening towards Olsen. Shockey has been consistent the last month though.

 

[MDSkinner]

Whats do you guys think Orton will do tonight?He may be a sneaky play.The Saints have been tough against the run of late. And If Brees is on fire and the Saints jump out front the Bears will be forced to throw the ball.What do you guys think?

Let me say this...in every home game this year that Orton has completed (the injury game was at home and he obviously was not able to finish so I exclude it) he has thrown at least 32 times and has thrown at least 2 TDs. His lowest Yardage output at home was against the Eagle (199 3/2). The home games include Tampa, Philly, Minny and Jax. That is not a horrible list defensively and he has had good numbers every night. I think he is a rock solid start tonight. That said, because I have overanalyzed this so much and am starting him myself you are probably ahead to bench him cause that is the way FF works.

 

[Spartans346]

Will the field or weather affect Forte's production tonight? If so, I need to bench him for Portis.

 

[Deuce'sWild]

FWIW, M. Faulk just said the field looks good and shoudn't be slippery