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***Preseason Game Notes*** (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter Jeff Pasquino
- Start date
Nice work!r0llin_game
Footballguy
Eagles @ Bengals
Bengals drives
#1
-Bernard Scott returned the opening kickoff.
-Nothing else to really note other than the first two plays were designed to T.O. The play action rollout was a pretty nice throw by Carson.
#2
-Benson bounced a play to the outside where there was nothing in the middle for a 7 yard gain. Then had a nice 11 yard run where he lowered his shoulder and runs over a DB.
-Carson got flushed out of the pocket and got Benson on a check down. On the interception, he had a bit of pressure on his backside, but stared down Ocho the whole way.
#3
-Pacman had trouble catching the punt.
-Benson turned a play into a 4 yard gain where he got hit at the line.
-Gresham lined out wide left made the catch with his arms fully extended.
-Carson makes a good throw to Ocho that he extended his body for and couldn't haul in.
#4
-Carson steps up in the pocket on playaction, hit Ocho for 16. Two plays later hits Ocho again with a perfect throw on an out route. Showed good arm strength on both throws to Ocho.
#5
-On the punt return, Pacman calls for a fair catch and gets interfered with. He gets to the ball and makes a nice return.
-The Palmer to TO throw developed quickly. Great throw by Carson.
-Great vision by Scott to find the hole and hit it.
#6
-Gresham grabs a ball on a TE screen, looked very fast getting downfield.
-Second INT was Ocho's fault. Got completely drilled but lost the ball before that.
Eagles drives
#1
-Kolb took a solid hit and DJax tripped before going up for a ball. Delivered a ball too late, at least imo, to McCoy.
#2
-Maclin makes a nice diving grab for a 6 yard gain.
#3
-Jean-Gilles missed a huge block in the 2nd level that could have sprung McCoy for a huge gain.
-Kolb makes a really good throw to DJax rolling out of the pocket that only DJax could get to.
-On Maclin's fumble, Bengals came with a blitz and Eagles run a bubble screen. Maclin had the ball away from his body and got it poked out.
#4
-Maclin got popped in the shoulder. Looked more like a stinger than anything else.
#5
-Kolb made a great athletic throw right on target to DJax. Few plays later, he overthrew a couple players.
-McCoy finally gets a hole and looked good busting through it.
#6
-Had McCoy run the wildcat without success.
-Nice patience in finding Avant even though it got brought back for an illegal formation.
Game overview summary
Carson looked good. His arm looked strong, and really made just one mistake in staring down Ocho on the first INT. Benson caught the ball very well from the backfield. There wasn't much else from him running the ball. Defense in the first half looked like they had trouble covering DJax. Pacman had some very good returns and looked very impressive in that aspect. Gresham showed that his knee shouldn't be an issue and had a very good chip block on the TE screen that netted 17 yards. Cedric Peerman looked pretty rough early. In the last drive of the 3rd/first drive of the 4th, he broke some tackles and made some plays. He broke two tackles on his 21 yard scamper.
Kolb showed he can do some of the things that McNabb use to do. He was very mobile getting out of the pocket and very accurate. McCoy didn't get many looks and didn't have much of a chance to show the speed he can possess. DJax looked good getting separation and had some very good route running. There was a play that he and Kolb helped keep alive when he jailbroke his route after running it and made a catch for 28 yards. Vick looked every bit as bad as his stats indicated. There were times he just took off when he got pressured early and didn't keep his eyes downfield.
Bengals drives
#1
-Bernard Scott returned the opening kickoff.
-Nothing else to really note other than the first two plays were designed to T.O. The play action rollout was a pretty nice throw by Carson.
#2
-Benson bounced a play to the outside where there was nothing in the middle for a 7 yard gain. Then had a nice 11 yard run where he lowered his shoulder and runs over a DB.
-Carson got flushed out of the pocket and got Benson on a check down. On the interception, he had a bit of pressure on his backside, but stared down Ocho the whole way.
#3
-Pacman had trouble catching the punt.
-Benson turned a play into a 4 yard gain where he got hit at the line.
-Gresham lined out wide left made the catch with his arms fully extended.
-Carson makes a good throw to Ocho that he extended his body for and couldn't haul in.
#4
-Carson steps up in the pocket on playaction, hit Ocho for 16. Two plays later hits Ocho again with a perfect throw on an out route. Showed good arm strength on both throws to Ocho.
#5
-On the punt return, Pacman calls for a fair catch and gets interfered with. He gets to the ball and makes a nice return.
-The Palmer to TO throw developed quickly. Great throw by Carson.
-Great vision by Scott to find the hole and hit it.
#6
-Gresham grabs a ball on a TE screen, looked very fast getting downfield.
-Second INT was Ocho's fault. Got completely drilled but lost the ball before that.
Eagles drives
#1
-Kolb took a solid hit and DJax tripped before going up for a ball. Delivered a ball too late, at least imo, to McCoy.
#2
-Maclin makes a nice diving grab for a 6 yard gain.
#3
-Jean-Gilles missed a huge block in the 2nd level that could have sprung McCoy for a huge gain.
-Kolb makes a really good throw to DJax rolling out of the pocket that only DJax could get to.
-On Maclin's fumble, Bengals came with a blitz and Eagles run a bubble screen. Maclin had the ball away from his body and got it poked out.
#4
-Maclin got popped in the shoulder. Looked more like a stinger than anything else.
#5
-Kolb made a great athletic throw right on target to DJax. Few plays later, he overthrew a couple players.
-McCoy finally gets a hole and looked good busting through it.
#6
-Had McCoy run the wildcat without success.
-Nice patience in finding Avant even though it got brought back for an illegal formation.
Game overview summary
Carson looked good. His arm looked strong, and really made just one mistake in staring down Ocho on the first INT. Benson caught the ball very well from the backfield. There wasn't much else from him running the ball. Defense in the first half looked like they had trouble covering DJax. Pacman had some very good returns and looked very impressive in that aspect. Gresham showed that his knee shouldn't be an issue and had a very good chip block on the TE screen that netted 17 yards. Cedric Peerman looked pretty rough early. In the last drive of the 3rd/first drive of the 4th, he broke some tackles and made some plays. He broke two tackles on his 21 yard scamper.
Kolb showed he can do some of the things that McNabb use to do. He was very mobile getting out of the pocket and very accurate. McCoy didn't get many looks and didn't have much of a chance to show the speed he can possess. DJax looked good getting separation and had some very good route running. There was a play that he and Kolb helped keep alive when he jailbroke his route after running it and made a catch for 28 yards. Vick looked every bit as bad as his stats indicated. There were times he just took off when he got pressured early and didn't keep his eyes downfield.
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The Jacket
Footballguy
Thomas Jones picking up right where he left off last week - FUMBLE on his first carry.
Haley hates fumbles.
Haley hates fumbles.
r0llin_game
Footballguy
Colts v. Bills
Colts
#1
-Drive was pretty bad. Screen pass got blown up on 3rd and 15.
#2
-About 3 guys got beat on the line on the Addai strech play. On the TD run, good vision on picking the hole and turning it up field and shook off a tackler.
-Addai makes a nice grab running a wheel route on a ball slightly underthrown by Peyton.
-Good vision on the run by Brown and showed a burst of speed hitting the corner.
#3
-One of the backup TE's Eldrigde makes a great catch in solid coverage on a well thrown ball by Peyton.
-Brown looks really good like he can be the main ball carrier this year. Has the burst to get outside.
-Gonzalez has to make the catch on the quick in. Just couldn't bring the ball in that McGee makes a great grab for a pick 6.
#4
-Manning made a poor read where Whitner made a decent read.
#5
-Devin Moore had a really nice PR up the middle.
-Brown had a drop on an in route when lined up wide far left.
-Peyton with a perfect pass to Tamme running a seam route for a 21 yard TD.
Bills
#1
-First play had Spiller going in motion to the slot and running a little drag route that wasn't there. Edwards rolled out then his Parrish on a good throw.
-Spiller's TD run showcased that he can run in between the tackles. Made a DE miss along with two other defenders.
#2
-Lots of pressure on this series. On the 2nd and 11 pass, made a poor throw in tight coverage.
#3
-Nothing worthwhile to note except the OL blew up on the 1st down Spiller run.
#4
-Great max protection out of the full house formation, Colts secondary looked lost on the Evans 70 yard TD recept.
#5
-Spiller makes a great cut for a 12 yard gain.
-Edwards scrambled for a couple yards. Once he felt pressure, he took his eyes off his WR's and looked solely to run. Had Steve Johnson who ran a hook route that looked very open. Looked very accurate a couple plays later hit trying to hit Johnson in very tight coverage by Lacey that Johnson almost caught.
--------------------
Game writeup overview
-Both offensive lines didn't really impress me. Peyton had to get the ball out very early a few times. Donald Brown looked very good whenever he could bounce a play to the outside. There were some very impressive throws by Peyton, but he did have a couple bad ones. Nothing out of the ordinary for the Colts. Painter looked pretty good and seemed to make quick decisions and accurate throws.
-C.J. looked every bit as good as hyped up to be. If the Colts defense wasn't focused on speed, Spiller definitely would have busted a few more big runs. He looked very impressive. Edwards still doesn't strike me all to well. The play where he scrambled, he needs to keep his had up through the adversity of being pressured. If he manages to be able to do that, he will make bigger plays since he does have a relatively strong arm. Brohm didn't seem to flashy, not enough for me to write about. Bell had quite a few good runs, but seemed to run way too upright.
Colts
#1
-Drive was pretty bad. Screen pass got blown up on 3rd and 15.
#2
-About 3 guys got beat on the line on the Addai strech play. On the TD run, good vision on picking the hole and turning it up field and shook off a tackler.
-Addai makes a nice grab running a wheel route on a ball slightly underthrown by Peyton.
-Good vision on the run by Brown and showed a burst of speed hitting the corner.
#3
-One of the backup TE's Eldrigde makes a great catch in solid coverage on a well thrown ball by Peyton.
-Brown looks really good like he can be the main ball carrier this year. Has the burst to get outside.
-Gonzalez has to make the catch on the quick in. Just couldn't bring the ball in that McGee makes a great grab for a pick 6.
#4
-Manning made a poor read where Whitner made a decent read.
#5
-Devin Moore had a really nice PR up the middle.
-Brown had a drop on an in route when lined up wide far left.
-Peyton with a perfect pass to Tamme running a seam route for a 21 yard TD.
Bills
#1
-First play had Spiller going in motion to the slot and running a little drag route that wasn't there. Edwards rolled out then his Parrish on a good throw.
-Spiller's TD run showcased that he can run in between the tackles. Made a DE miss along with two other defenders.
#2
-Lots of pressure on this series. On the 2nd and 11 pass, made a poor throw in tight coverage.
#3
-Nothing worthwhile to note except the OL blew up on the 1st down Spiller run.
#4
-Great max protection out of the full house formation, Colts secondary looked lost on the Evans 70 yard TD recept.
#5
-Spiller makes a great cut for a 12 yard gain.
-Edwards scrambled for a couple yards. Once he felt pressure, he took his eyes off his WR's and looked solely to run. Had Steve Johnson who ran a hook route that looked very open. Looked very accurate a couple plays later hit trying to hit Johnson in very tight coverage by Lacey that Johnson almost caught.
--------------------
Game writeup overview
-Both offensive lines didn't really impress me. Peyton had to get the ball out very early a few times. Donald Brown looked very good whenever he could bounce a play to the outside. There were some very impressive throws by Peyton, but he did have a couple bad ones. Nothing out of the ordinary for the Colts. Painter looked pretty good and seemed to make quick decisions and accurate throws.
-C.J. looked every bit as good as hyped up to be. If the Colts defense wasn't focused on speed, Spiller definitely would have busted a few more big runs. He looked very impressive. Edwards still doesn't strike me all to well. The play where he scrambled, he needs to keep his had up through the adversity of being pressured. If he manages to be able to do that, he will make bigger plays since he does have a relatively strong arm. Brohm didn't seem to flashy, not enough for me to write about. Bell had quite a few good runs, but seemed to run way too upright.
cr8f
Footballguy
I drafted him early but still had doubts. At 1.13 in the rookie draft he had the most value. Glad I did now he could help the whole offense.
ThePhillyPhanatic
Footballguy
Some stats that caught my eye on NFL Game Center.
Mike Wallace - 68 yard TD and 12 yard rec so far against the Giants.
Mike Williams - 3 catches, 44 yards against Chiefs.
Larry Johnson has 4 yards on 8 carries versus the Ravens.
Dexter McCluster - 17 yard reception
Michael Bush - 5 carries, 21 yards, 24 yard reception
Jason Campbell - First Drive (?): 5/5, 89 yards, rushing TD
Mike Wallace - 68 yard TD and 12 yard rec so far against the Giants.
Mike Williams - 3 catches, 44 yards against Chiefs.
Larry Johnson has 4 yards on 8 carries versus the Ravens.
Dexter McCluster - 17 yard reception
Michael Bush - 5 carries, 21 yards, 24 yard reception
Jason Campbell - First Drive (?): 5/5, 89 yards, rushing TD
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CrossEyed
Footballguy
OK, maybe before.
r0llin_game
Footballguy
Thanks socrates!
Joe Summer
Footballguy
.
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smackdaddies
Footballguy
Pack v. Seatle,
Overall impressions, for what they are worth, about players who were playas
@ qb - Rogers and Hasselback. Both looked good. Rodgers is clearly functioning as a top 3 qb. Hasselback much improved over last week. Flynn looked ok
@rb - no one. Ignore Jackson's stats. Against 1st string d, he was as bad as the others.
@wr - jennings, housh, williams all good. Jennings clearly a #1 WR, but williams could be a #2/3 wr had for a very late pick. Dillon got some early play by the pack - kind of curious to see him in game 3
@te - Finley is unstopable (except by Rodgers spreading the ball around), Carlson looked ok
@d - starting Packer line looked good. The rest have to many injuries to judge. Seatle line stopped the run.
comment on the Pack 0 Line - for all the crap people have been writing about some of the players, Rodgers has not really been under a lot of pressure, nor sacked even once I believe, for either preseason game.
Overall impressions, for what they are worth, about players who were playas
@ qb - Rogers and Hasselback. Both looked good. Rodgers is clearly functioning as a top 3 qb. Hasselback much improved over last week. Flynn looked ok
@rb - no one. Ignore Jackson's stats. Against 1st string d, he was as bad as the others.
@wr - jennings, housh, williams all good. Jennings clearly a #1 WR, but williams could be a #2/3 wr had for a very late pick. Dillon got some early play by the pack - kind of curious to see him in game 3
@te - Finley is unstopable (except by Rodgers spreading the ball around), Carlson looked ok
@d - starting Packer line looked good. The rest have to many injuries to judge. Seatle line stopped the run.
comment on the Pack 0 Line - for all the crap people have been writing about some of the players, Rodgers has not really been under a lot of pressure, nor sacked even once I believe, for either preseason game.
Ilov80s
Footballguy
Lions- Broncos
- Stafford looks sharp- real sharp 13/18 130 yards 1 TD, but should have had 3 TDs as 2 balls were dropped in the end zone by TEs. Led 4 drives and Lions scored on all 4.
- Best is lightning quick. 8 carries for 49 yards, including a slick cutback run and a toss around the edge for 15 that could have been more if he wasn't grabbed from behind by the face mask.
- CJ had another TD, CBs just can't compete with him on a jump ball.
- For the 2nd straight week, Detroit's 1st team controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.
- Detroit' secondary is very bad still.
- Denver is not good and won't be much of a provider of fantasy talent.
- Stafford looks sharp- real sharp 13/18 130 yards 1 TD, but should have had 3 TDs as 2 balls were dropped in the end zone by TEs. Led 4 drives and Lions scored on all 4.
- Best is lightning quick. 8 carries for 49 yards, including a slick cutback run and a toss around the edge for 15 that could have been more if he wasn't grabbed from behind by the face mask.
- CJ had another TD, CBs just can't compete with him on a jump ball.
- For the 2nd straight week, Detroit's 1st team controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.
- Detroit' secondary is very bad still.
- Denver is not good and won't be much of a provider of fantasy talent.
cr8f
Footballguy
The Saints broadcasting team was pretty awful. They called Andre Johnson "Andre Jackson." In the second quarter, they didn't even notice the Texans scored a touchdown during an interview. In the third quarter, they spent 1a lot of time on LSU football and later talked politics.
They also stated the Saints wanted to take Owen Daniels over Carl Nicks in the 2008 NFL Draft but Daniels wasn't in that draft.
They also stated the Saints wanted to take Owen Daniels over Carl Nicks in the 2008 NFL Draft but Daniels wasn't in that draft.
Faust
MVP
Review of Jets-Panthers field goalathon
By Tim Graham
Some thoughts after reviewing footage of the New York Jets' 9-3 victory over the Carolina Panthers on Saturday night:
It was a great night for the Jets' defense, disconcerting for their offense. Even the offensive line had a rough night. Mark Sanchez was sacked twice. Shonn Greene was thrown for a 7-yard loss.
When I saw Sanchez at SUNY Cortland, I could justify the occasional mistake, considering he's playing against the NFL's top-rated defense from last year. But the more I see of him in preseason games, the less encouraged I am that he has figured it out. He's way off target and telegraphs too many throws. He also seems to have some rookie panic still in his game.
Sanchez completed just three of his first eight passes and couldn't lead a touchdown drive, including one that started on the Panthers' 12-yard line. Factoring in the sacks, the Jets had minus-3 yards passing with Sanchez in the game.
Sanchez received bonus time thanks to a pair of botched Carolina punt returns. His four possessions were in the first quarter, with the last one bleeding into the second quarter. The first-team offense gained 33 yards.
Veteran backup Mark Brunell didn't fare any better. He is being outplayed by Kellen Clemens through two preseason games. Brunell handled four possessions, each of them a three-and-out and totaling 12 yards of offense.
Not a good sign to see guards Matt Slauson and Vladimir Ducasse on the field in the fourth quarter -- and getting beaten.
Cornerbacks Dwight Lowery and Drew Coleman had nice bounce-back games. Giants undrafted rookie receiver Victor Cruz romped against the Jets' reserve corners on Monday. But Lowery was strong in coverage and knocked down a pair of passes. Coleman had an interception with 1:38 to play.
Solid night for Nick Folk's confidence, converting all three tries from 43, 36 and 49 yards.
I'm not saying some switch has been flipped and Vernon Gholston is about to fulfill his pre-draft expectations, but he looks like he'll finally be a serviceable role player for the Jets. That's a whole lot better than being a possible inactive every week.
LaDainian Tomlinson looks great in the preseason, ripping off a 20-yard run on the Jets' opening drive. But I won't be sold until I still see explosiveness a few games into the regular season.
Not sure the reason, but I've noticed an awful lot of chinstraps riding up on players' faces in the preseason. Eli Manning and Trent Edwards have discovered what kinds of problems that can cause.
By Tim Graham
Some thoughts after reviewing footage of the New York Jets' 9-3 victory over the Carolina Panthers on Saturday night:
It was a great night for the Jets' defense, disconcerting for their offense. Even the offensive line had a rough night. Mark Sanchez was sacked twice. Shonn Greene was thrown for a 7-yard loss.
When I saw Sanchez at SUNY Cortland, I could justify the occasional mistake, considering he's playing against the NFL's top-rated defense from last year. But the more I see of him in preseason games, the less encouraged I am that he has figured it out. He's way off target and telegraphs too many throws. He also seems to have some rookie panic still in his game.
Sanchez completed just three of his first eight passes and couldn't lead a touchdown drive, including one that started on the Panthers' 12-yard line. Factoring in the sacks, the Jets had minus-3 yards passing with Sanchez in the game.
Sanchez received bonus time thanks to a pair of botched Carolina punt returns. His four possessions were in the first quarter, with the last one bleeding into the second quarter. The first-team offense gained 33 yards.
Veteran backup Mark Brunell didn't fare any better. He is being outplayed by Kellen Clemens through two preseason games. Brunell handled four possessions, each of them a three-and-out and totaling 12 yards of offense.
Not a good sign to see guards Matt Slauson and Vladimir Ducasse on the field in the fourth quarter -- and getting beaten.
Cornerbacks Dwight Lowery and Drew Coleman had nice bounce-back games. Giants undrafted rookie receiver Victor Cruz romped against the Jets' reserve corners on Monday. But Lowery was strong in coverage and knocked down a pair of passes. Coleman had an interception with 1:38 to play.
Solid night for Nick Folk's confidence, converting all three tries from 43, 36 and 49 yards.
I'm not saying some switch has been flipped and Vernon Gholston is about to fulfill his pre-draft expectations, but he looks like he'll finally be a serviceable role player for the Jets. That's a whole lot better than being a possible inactive every week.
LaDainian Tomlinson looks great in the preseason, ripping off a 20-yard run on the Jets' opening drive. But I won't be sold until I still see explosiveness a few games into the regular season.
Not sure the reason, but I've noticed an awful lot of chinstraps riding up on players' faces in the preseason. Eli Manning and Trent Edwards have discovered what kinds of problems that can cause.
Faust
MVP
Thoughts on Sam Bradford and the Rams
By Mike Sando
What to make of Sam Bradford and the St. Louis Rams following their 19-17 victory over the Cleveland Browns during the second week of the 2010 exhibition season:
Hard rains made game conditions sloppy. Both teams' offenses bogged down in the conditions. The exception was when A.J. Feeley was at quarterback for the Rams. Feeley's command of the offense separated him from the other quarterbacks in this game, particularly early. He was able to run the Rams' offense more precisely. It helped, too, that Steven Jackson was in the game for the one drive Feeley led. Quarterbacks for both teams had trouble securing the ball from center in the wet conditions, throwing off rhythm right away.
Feeley's experience helped him take what the Browns' defense was giving him. That meant throwing underneath to tight ends Billy Bajema and Daniel Fells.
The Rams' pass protection showed improvement from last week. The Browns do not rush the passer as well as Week 1 opponent Minnesota rushes the passer. That accounted for part of the difference. The Rams' offensive tackles also showed improvement. The Browns got pressure on blitzes, which is easy to do during the exhibition season because offenses aren't game-planning nearly as much.
How much better was the Rams' pass protection? Bernie Kosar, providing commentary on the Browns' broadcast, at one point said, "Fantastic job of pass protection by the St. Louis Rams." There never would have been a chance to utter that sentence a week earlier.
The Rams got what they wanted from a couple key veterans they added in free agency. On defense, tackle Fred Robbins had a sack and a fumble recovery. On offense, Feeley ran the system effectively before -- and even immediately after -- suffering a thumb injury, but the Rams took him out of the game after the opening drive to a touchdown. Giving Feeley time to heal could work to the Rams' favor in the long term. Feeley already knows the offense. He doesn't need as much work. Starting Bradford during the third exhibition game could make it easier for the Rams to start Bradford in Week 1 of the regular season.
Bradford isn't yet playing fast enough. That will change as he gains more game experience. The conditions made it especially tough for Bradford to function quickly and efficiently. Bradford has yet to play a game with Jackson in the backfield. That should change next week. Jackson is the one Rams player defenses fear. Bradford needs him. Bradford could also use more help from teammates. Bajema dropped a third-down pass early in the game. I wasn't seeing many open receivers, either.
Mardy Gilyard made three Browns miss during a 23-yard punt return early in the game. Gilyard enjoyed a strong week of practices, easily his best as a pro.
Overall, the Rams needed to see better pass protection in this game, and they got it. They wanted to see Bradford get into a rhythm and move the offense, but it didn't really happen. That will come with experience, better conditions and a little more help. Bradford never faced a third-down distance shorter than 8 yards. His third-down distances in order: third-and-8, 9, 9, 10, 14, 17, 8 and 8. Getting Jackson onto the field would help bring down those distances for Bradford, putting him in better position to succeed.
By Mike Sando
What to make of Sam Bradford and the St. Louis Rams following their 19-17 victory over the Cleveland Browns during the second week of the 2010 exhibition season:
Hard rains made game conditions sloppy. Both teams' offenses bogged down in the conditions. The exception was when A.J. Feeley was at quarterback for the Rams. Feeley's command of the offense separated him from the other quarterbacks in this game, particularly early. He was able to run the Rams' offense more precisely. It helped, too, that Steven Jackson was in the game for the one drive Feeley led. Quarterbacks for both teams had trouble securing the ball from center in the wet conditions, throwing off rhythm right away.
Feeley's experience helped him take what the Browns' defense was giving him. That meant throwing underneath to tight ends Billy Bajema and Daniel Fells.
The Rams' pass protection showed improvement from last week. The Browns do not rush the passer as well as Week 1 opponent Minnesota rushes the passer. That accounted for part of the difference. The Rams' offensive tackles also showed improvement. The Browns got pressure on blitzes, which is easy to do during the exhibition season because offenses aren't game-planning nearly as much.
How much better was the Rams' pass protection? Bernie Kosar, providing commentary on the Browns' broadcast, at one point said, "Fantastic job of pass protection by the St. Louis Rams." There never would have been a chance to utter that sentence a week earlier.
The Rams got what they wanted from a couple key veterans they added in free agency. On defense, tackle Fred Robbins had a sack and a fumble recovery. On offense, Feeley ran the system effectively before -- and even immediately after -- suffering a thumb injury, but the Rams took him out of the game after the opening drive to a touchdown. Giving Feeley time to heal could work to the Rams' favor in the long term. Feeley already knows the offense. He doesn't need as much work. Starting Bradford during the third exhibition game could make it easier for the Rams to start Bradford in Week 1 of the regular season.
Bradford isn't yet playing fast enough. That will change as he gains more game experience. The conditions made it especially tough for Bradford to function quickly and efficiently. Bradford has yet to play a game with Jackson in the backfield. That should change next week. Jackson is the one Rams player defenses fear. Bradford needs him. Bradford could also use more help from teammates. Bajema dropped a third-down pass early in the game. I wasn't seeing many open receivers, either.
Mardy Gilyard made three Browns miss during a 23-yard punt return early in the game. Gilyard enjoyed a strong week of practices, easily his best as a pro.
Overall, the Rams needed to see better pass protection in this game, and they got it. They wanted to see Bradford get into a rhythm and move the offense, but it didn't really happen. That will come with experience, better conditions and a little more help. Bradford never faced a third-down distance shorter than 8 yards. His third-down distances in order: third-and-8, 9, 9, 10, 14, 17, 8 and 8. Getting Jackson onto the field would help bring down those distances for Bradford, putting him in better position to succeed.
Faust
MVP
Reviewing the Chiefs vs. Bucs
By Bill Williamson
Random thoughts from Kansas City’s 20-15 loss at Tampa Bay on Saturday night:
It’s kind of what we’ve thought: The Chiefs may be good on offense, but the defense could hold them back.
Offensively, this is a potentially exciting team and we saw glimpses of that. Blessed with a better supporting cast, quarterback Matt Cassel made progress from the first preseason game. Cassel was 14-of-19 for 125 yards against Tampa Bay.
Receiver Dwayne Bowe looked good and rookie free-agent Jeremy Horne made the important transformation from training-camp phenom to preseason game standout. Horne was thrown in with the first team and he didn’t disappoint during his time with the big dogs. He routinely got open and caught a touchdown pass from Cassel. It would be a huge bonus if Horne turns out to be a legitimate player.
Running back Jamaal Charles continued to shine as he had 49 yards on eight touches. Charles, who said this week it is his goal to average at least six yards a pop, has 92 yards on 14 touches in the preseason. He has 64 yards rushing yards on nine attempts. That’s a pretty nice follow-up for a guy who averaged 5.9 yards per tote last year. Charles is outplaying Thomas Jones, who had a fumble. Even though Jones is listed as the starter, it is seems Charles will be the featured back while Jones will be a valuable complementary runner.
Second-round pick Javier Arenas continued to look goods as a returner. He had a 54-yard kickoff return. Last week, he had a 99-yard touchdown return nullified by a penalty.
Defensively, though, the Chiefs’ first team struggled. The Buccaneers were nails on third down and Kansas City’s pass defense faltered. Once again, the front seven didn’t provide any pass rush. Thus, the post Jared Allen-sack deficiency tour continues. The Chiefs were better against the run than the pass, though.
Still, if the Chiefs are going to be improved this season, they must find a way to stop the pass.
Meanwhile, Kansas City coach Todd Haley said there were some encouraging signs about the health of defensive back Maurice Leggett. He had to be carted off the field and he stayed the night in a Tampa Bay hospital.
By Bill Williamson
Random thoughts from Kansas City’s 20-15 loss at Tampa Bay on Saturday night:
It’s kind of what we’ve thought: The Chiefs may be good on offense, but the defense could hold them back.
Offensively, this is a potentially exciting team and we saw glimpses of that. Blessed with a better supporting cast, quarterback Matt Cassel made progress from the first preseason game. Cassel was 14-of-19 for 125 yards against Tampa Bay.
Receiver Dwayne Bowe looked good and rookie free-agent Jeremy Horne made the important transformation from training-camp phenom to preseason game standout. Horne was thrown in with the first team and he didn’t disappoint during his time with the big dogs. He routinely got open and caught a touchdown pass from Cassel. It would be a huge bonus if Horne turns out to be a legitimate player.
Running back Jamaal Charles continued to shine as he had 49 yards on eight touches. Charles, who said this week it is his goal to average at least six yards a pop, has 92 yards on 14 touches in the preseason. He has 64 yards rushing yards on nine attempts. That’s a pretty nice follow-up for a guy who averaged 5.9 yards per tote last year. Charles is outplaying Thomas Jones, who had a fumble. Even though Jones is listed as the starter, it is seems Charles will be the featured back while Jones will be a valuable complementary runner.
Second-round pick Javier Arenas continued to look goods as a returner. He had a 54-yard kickoff return. Last week, he had a 99-yard touchdown return nullified by a penalty.
Defensively, though, the Chiefs’ first team struggled. The Buccaneers were nails on third down and Kansas City’s pass defense faltered. Once again, the front seven didn’t provide any pass rush. Thus, the post Jared Allen-sack deficiency tour continues. The Chiefs were better against the run than the pass, though.
Still, if the Chiefs are going to be improved this season, they must find a way to stop the pass.
Meanwhile, Kansas City coach Todd Haley said there were some encouraging signs about the health of defensive back Maurice Leggett. He had to be carted off the field and he stayed the night in a Tampa Bay hospital.
Faust
MVP
Looking back at New Orleans' victory
By Pat Yasinskas
A quick review of New Orleans’ 38-20 preseason victory against Houston on Saturday night.
Bradley Handwerger writes that the New Orleans offensive line bounced back nicely after a rough outing in the opener. Maybe a little bit of depth-chart shuffling by the coaching staff in practice last week started a fire under some guys that were off to slow starts.
Chase Daniel had a big game while getting extended playing time. Everyone assumed Patrick Ramsey would be the backup quarterback behind Drew Brees, but Daniel is making a case for that job.
There’s no question Sean Payton runs an offense that’s built around the passing game, but the running game looked very strong against the Texans.
The New Orleans defense, after a rough opener, looked a little more like it did last season. The Saints produced two turnovers.
By Pat Yasinskas
A quick review of New Orleans’ 38-20 preseason victory against Houston on Saturday night.
Bradley Handwerger writes that the New Orleans offensive line bounced back nicely after a rough outing in the opener. Maybe a little bit of depth-chart shuffling by the coaching staff in practice last week started a fire under some guys that were off to slow starts.
Chase Daniel had a big game while getting extended playing time. Everyone assumed Patrick Ramsey would be the backup quarterback behind Drew Brees, but Daniel is making a case for that job.
There’s no question Sean Payton runs an offense that’s built around the passing game, but the running game looked very strong against the Texans.
The New Orleans defense, after a rough opener, looked a little more like it did last season. The Saints produced two turnovers.
massraider
Footballguy
Mike Williams in Tampa looks like the hype is legit. Had a nice catch over the middle, but one that didn't show on the stat sheet was a leaping sideline grab that was too far out of bounds. But it was a stud catch. He just looks like he is really comfortable catching the ball.
massraider
Footballguy
The flipped him a reverse as well I thought. He is definitely a slot guy, and it looks like bubble screens are on the menu for him. He looks good to me, and it looks like they are going to ahve plays designed for him. I would have liked it if he had played more early in this game. Jamaal Charles looks great. He might be getting overdrafted, but any problems I have with his draft spot have to do with the KC offense and Haley's stupid mind games, not talent.He didn't get enough love round here when he was drafted, and people are being stubborn, but he is the goods. Catches the ball well, has home run speed, and is really shifty, which doesn't get enough play. He will put moves together, some backs are capable of only one. And for a little guy, runs well up the middle. If the Chiefs want to score points, they will use him a LOT more than Thomas Jones. Jones can still run, and will get 4-6 yards if its available, but the Chiefs are going to need to score to stay in games this year, and Charles and McCluster need to be a part of that.
r0llin_game
Footballguy
Packers @ Seahawks
Packers
#1
-Rodgers stepped into a deep pass, OL gave him plenty of time too. Great catch by Jennings for 56 yards.
-Finley lined up out wide, does a nice job to hold onto a ball to create a first and goal. Next play playaction to Kuhn for an easy 6.
#2
-Rodgers on a faded go route hit Jennings right in the hands, broken up nicely by Trufant. Then scrambles for a first on 3rd down, did have #35 open for a 1st. Made a risky throw in double coverage, an illegal contact penalty negates the play.
-Grant runs the stretch and hits a big hole 8 yards. Next play, James Jones gets a quick throw and he stopped and tried to turn around. Forward progress did give him a 1st.
-On the Finley TD, he lined up as a TE, #57 blows his coverage allowing Finley to waltz into the endzone on his route for an easy catch and score.
#3
-God help GB is Brandon Jackson is their kick returner. He's looked slow on both returns.
-Matt Flynn entered the game.
Seattle
#1
-Forsett eluded a tackler 5 yards in the backfield to gain a yard.
-Hasselbeck made a very accurate throw that Branch couldn't haul in.
#2
-Josh Wilson with a very good return. Stopped at around the 45 where he should have kept accelerating.
-Mike Williams does good job finding space in the GB secondary for 17 yards.
-Hasselbeck showed excellent poise in finding Branch who was his 4th option on the play.
#3
-Hasselbeck was quick on his throw and Housh makes a nice snag for a 1st.
-On the 1st and 10, Hasselbeck and Housh had a miss communication, Washington had a nice pickup on the DB blitz.
-Seattle catch a break on an illegal contact where Carlson could have made a catch for a significant gain. He was lined up in the slot.
-Washington's first run he hit the hold hard, got tripped up slightly after getting out of it. Next play, the Hawks run a playaction rollout similar to one they ran on the second drive with the exception of Branch run a slant to an out route. Hasselbeck hits Williams on the sideline for a nice catch and throw. Play challenged and upheld. Next play Washington exploded through a hole for a TD. Looked ready and healthy on the play.
#4
-Hasselbeck showed good pocket presence eluding a sack. Carlson drops a ball that would have resulted in a 1st in tight coverage.
#5
-Hasselbeck hits Housh on a good corner route for 21.
-Washington makes a good cut to enter a hole on a play that gets called back for a hold.
_______________________________________________
Game writeup overview
Aaron Rodgers looked good. He got time to throw the ball and was very accurate. He made good reads with the exception of the play he scrambled where he didn't need to, even though he picked up a 1st down on the play. Ryan Grant didn't get much action and looked average, except on the stretch play he gained 8 on. If Greg Jennings bulks up his upper body just a bit, he could have Andre Johnson-like hype. Jermichael Finley lined up as an outside receiver quite often and seemed to provide the Pack with a mismatch v. Seahawk corners. Matt Flynn looked very capable of being a solid backup option behind Rodgers as he looked poised throughout his stint in the game.
Matt Hasselbeck looked sharp himself. He showed a bit of mobility for a QB his age and showed good accuracy his some of his WR's in tight coverage. Justin Forsett didn't really get much action and didn't get any help from his OL when provided opportunities to run the ball. Leon Washington looked like he's ready for a full season of work. He looked explosive and just about as fast as before his injury. Mike Williams looks like he will be the #2 WR opening the season. He made an excellent catch to help out Hasselbeck on a rollout where he came back and grabbed a ball just inside the sideline. Charlie Whitehurst looked awful compared to what I saw the prior week v. Tennessee. He just never really looked comfortable and made a few awful decisions. There wasn't much of Golden Tate that I saw except for on the last drive where he made a catch before taking a helmet-to-helmet hit.
Packers
#1
-Rodgers stepped into a deep pass, OL gave him plenty of time too. Great catch by Jennings for 56 yards.
-Finley lined up out wide, does a nice job to hold onto a ball to create a first and goal. Next play playaction to Kuhn for an easy 6.
#2
-Rodgers on a faded go route hit Jennings right in the hands, broken up nicely by Trufant. Then scrambles for a first on 3rd down, did have #35 open for a 1st. Made a risky throw in double coverage, an illegal contact penalty negates the play.
-Grant runs the stretch and hits a big hole 8 yards. Next play, James Jones gets a quick throw and he stopped and tried to turn around. Forward progress did give him a 1st.
-On the Finley TD, he lined up as a TE, #57 blows his coverage allowing Finley to waltz into the endzone on his route for an easy catch and score.
#3
-God help GB is Brandon Jackson is their kick returner. He's looked slow on both returns.
-Matt Flynn entered the game.
Seattle
#1
-Forsett eluded a tackler 5 yards in the backfield to gain a yard.
-Hasselbeck made a very accurate throw that Branch couldn't haul in.
#2
-Josh Wilson with a very good return. Stopped at around the 45 where he should have kept accelerating.
-Mike Williams does good job finding space in the GB secondary for 17 yards.
-Hasselbeck showed excellent poise in finding Branch who was his 4th option on the play.
#3
-Hasselbeck was quick on his throw and Housh makes a nice snag for a 1st.
-On the 1st and 10, Hasselbeck and Housh had a miss communication, Washington had a nice pickup on the DB blitz.
-Seattle catch a break on an illegal contact where Carlson could have made a catch for a significant gain. He was lined up in the slot.
-Washington's first run he hit the hold hard, got tripped up slightly after getting out of it. Next play, the Hawks run a playaction rollout similar to one they ran on the second drive with the exception of Branch run a slant to an out route. Hasselbeck hits Williams on the sideline for a nice catch and throw. Play challenged and upheld. Next play Washington exploded through a hole for a TD. Looked ready and healthy on the play.
#4
-Hasselbeck showed good pocket presence eluding a sack. Carlson drops a ball that would have resulted in a 1st in tight coverage.
#5
-Hasselbeck hits Housh on a good corner route for 21.
-Washington makes a good cut to enter a hole on a play that gets called back for a hold.
_______________________________________________
Game writeup overview
Aaron Rodgers looked good. He got time to throw the ball and was very accurate. He made good reads with the exception of the play he scrambled where he didn't need to, even though he picked up a 1st down on the play. Ryan Grant didn't get much action and looked average, except on the stretch play he gained 8 on. If Greg Jennings bulks up his upper body just a bit, he could have Andre Johnson-like hype. Jermichael Finley lined up as an outside receiver quite often and seemed to provide the Pack with a mismatch v. Seahawk corners. Matt Flynn looked very capable of being a solid backup option behind Rodgers as he looked poised throughout his stint in the game.
Matt Hasselbeck looked sharp himself. He showed a bit of mobility for a QB his age and showed good accuracy his some of his WR's in tight coverage. Justin Forsett didn't really get much action and didn't get any help from his OL when provided opportunities to run the ball. Leon Washington looked like he's ready for a full season of work. He looked explosive and just about as fast as before his injury. Mike Williams looks like he will be the #2 WR opening the season. He made an excellent catch to help out Hasselbeck on a rollout where he came back and grabbed a ball just inside the sideline. Charlie Whitehurst looked awful compared to what I saw the prior week v. Tennessee. He just never really looked comfortable and made a few awful decisions. There wasn't much of Golden Tate that I saw except for on the last drive where he made a catch before taking a helmet-to-helmet hit.
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r0llin_game
Footballguy
Lions @ Broncos
Lions
#1
-First offensive play of the game, Stafford threw a swing pass to Best.
-Best finds a whole to the outside and exploded through it for 15. Two plays later, makes a good read to cut back to his left to find another hole for an 11 yard run.
-Pettigrew drops a sure TD, may have been tipped.
-Offensive line looked really good this season, albeit, Denver did only bring 3 a couple times.
#2
-A very nice throw from Stafford to Calvin where Calvin goes up for the ball and make an awesome catch for 6.
#3
-Best seemingly dropped a handoff. Camera view didn't get to the start of the play in time.
-Stafford holds onto the ball too long and gets sacked. So far his only mistake of the game.
#4
-Stafford continues to get the ball out quickly and does so accurately.
-Morris had a nice run after catch to get into the redzone.
-Scheffler drops a catchable ball in the endzone.
Broncos
#1
-Royal got open on a zig in to out out route, but slipped on a ball that he should have caught. Two plays later, the Broncos give enough time for Orton to get out of the pocket and Royal to find a hole to get into to, but the play was called back for an illegal formation. Next play Orton manages to avoid a sack from a strong push by the Lions DL, and gets a ball off to Ball.
-Orton overthrows Lloyd who has a step on the Lions CB.
-Lions bring loads of pressure, Orton gets a ball out quickly for a 1st on 3rd and 2 to Gaffney.
-Bly with a huge INT with a 50 yard return on a ball then went right through Lance Ball's hands. This drive was greatly aided by the Lions defense with penalties along the way.
#2
-Orton eluded more pressure and hits Willis for a long gain. Flag for holding and Suh looks pretty dominant trying to find a way to get to the QB.
#3
-Orton continuing to get pressured and not having time to get the ball off in the pocket. Two plays later, he steps into a throw and hits Gaffney for 19.
-Gaffney then makes an incredible catch showing some body control and strength along the sideline.
-Gaffney continues to make nice catches grabbing the 4th and 6 ball on his back shoulder.
-Ball makes a nice run after catch and showed strength with an impressive stiff arm to get into the endzone.
#4
-Orton and Gaffney look very effective together running the 2 minute drill. Orton looked flat out confident on this drive. Wasn't afraid to use the middle of the field as the Broncos went 80 yards in :56.
___________________________________________
Game writeup overview
Matt Stafford looks like a true #1 overall draft pick that will be worth his value. He looked accurate in his quick decision making, had plenty of zip on the ball, and was very poised. Jahvid Best hit holes with great acceleration and if he stays healthy, will look like an excellent addition to the Lions. Calvin Johnson made an athletic grab in the endzone for 6. The offensive line looked good. If this offense can maintain this type of performance throughout the season, they could very well surprise some people and win 6-8 games.
Denver's offense seemed pretty mediocre. Orton did look solid, but the offensive line was awful. Orton had to scramble out of the pocket and was rushed numerous times. His INT was not his fault as it went right through Lance Ball's hands. The rushing attack was non existent, but that was expected with Knoshown Moreno and Correll Buckhalter still nursing injuries. Gaffney did look like the true #1 as he hauled in 6 balls for 98 yards. He seemingly found ways to get open and made some nice catches. Brady Quinn looked awful and he just might be the 3rd QB by the end of the season. He just kind of looks lost out there. Eric Decker looked solid himself grabbing 5 balls but nothing that notable in the brief time I took looking through the 2nd half.
Lions
#1
-First offensive play of the game, Stafford threw a swing pass to Best.
-Best finds a whole to the outside and exploded through it for 15. Two plays later, makes a good read to cut back to his left to find another hole for an 11 yard run.
-Pettigrew drops a sure TD, may have been tipped.
-Offensive line looked really good this season, albeit, Denver did only bring 3 a couple times.
#2
-A very nice throw from Stafford to Calvin where Calvin goes up for the ball and make an awesome catch for 6.
#3
-Best seemingly dropped a handoff. Camera view didn't get to the start of the play in time.
-Stafford holds onto the ball too long and gets sacked. So far his only mistake of the game.
#4
-Stafford continues to get the ball out quickly and does so accurately.
-Morris had a nice run after catch to get into the redzone.
-Scheffler drops a catchable ball in the endzone.
Broncos
#1
-Royal got open on a zig in to out out route, but slipped on a ball that he should have caught. Two plays later, the Broncos give enough time for Orton to get out of the pocket and Royal to find a hole to get into to, but the play was called back for an illegal formation. Next play Orton manages to avoid a sack from a strong push by the Lions DL, and gets a ball off to Ball.
-Orton overthrows Lloyd who has a step on the Lions CB.
-Lions bring loads of pressure, Orton gets a ball out quickly for a 1st on 3rd and 2 to Gaffney.
-Bly with a huge INT with a 50 yard return on a ball then went right through Lance Ball's hands. This drive was greatly aided by the Lions defense with penalties along the way.
#2
-Orton eluded more pressure and hits Willis for a long gain. Flag for holding and Suh looks pretty dominant trying to find a way to get to the QB.
#3
-Orton continuing to get pressured and not having time to get the ball off in the pocket. Two plays later, he steps into a throw and hits Gaffney for 19.
-Gaffney then makes an incredible catch showing some body control and strength along the sideline.
-Gaffney continues to make nice catches grabbing the 4th and 6 ball on his back shoulder.
-Ball makes a nice run after catch and showed strength with an impressive stiff arm to get into the endzone.
#4
-Orton and Gaffney look very effective together running the 2 minute drill. Orton looked flat out confident on this drive. Wasn't afraid to use the middle of the field as the Broncos went 80 yards in :56.
___________________________________________
Game writeup overview
Matt Stafford looks like a true #1 overall draft pick that will be worth his value. He looked accurate in his quick decision making, had plenty of zip on the ball, and was very poised. Jahvid Best hit holes with great acceleration and if he stays healthy, will look like an excellent addition to the Lions. Calvin Johnson made an athletic grab in the endzone for 6. The offensive line looked good. If this offense can maintain this type of performance throughout the season, they could very well surprise some people and win 6-8 games.
Denver's offense seemed pretty mediocre. Orton did look solid, but the offensive line was awful. Orton had to scramble out of the pocket and was rushed numerous times. His INT was not his fault as it went right through Lance Ball's hands. The rushing attack was non existent, but that was expected with Knoshown Moreno and Correll Buckhalter still nursing injuries. Gaffney did look like the true #1 as he hauled in 6 balls for 98 yards. He seemingly found ways to get open and made some nice catches. Brady Quinn looked awful and he just might be the 3rd QB by the end of the season. He just kind of looks lost out there. Eric Decker looked solid himself grabbing 5 balls but nothing that notable in the brief time I took looking through the 2nd half.
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Insoxicated
Young showing some pretty nice touch. Johnson showing some great vision/burst on that TD run.
Ministry of Pain
Footballguy
AZ was awful. Leinart still looks like he did 2-3 year ago which is not good.
Multiple Scores
Footballguy
Do people screaming for Skelton realize the cards would go 0-16 if he started? Just saying.
Faust
MVP
Observation deck: Cardinals-Titans
By Mike Sando
Coach Ken Whisenhunt and the Arizona Cardinals gave quarterback Matt Leinart little help Monday night during a 24-10 loss. The Tennessee Titans did Leinart no favors by blitzing against an offensive line that wasn't game-planning, this being preseason.
The Cardinals needed to see Leinart persevere anyway, or at least provide a spark, and it did not happen -- again. Three three-and-out possessions against the Tennessee Titans was not good enough given how much Leinart still must prove.
By my count, Arizona has scored two touchdowns in 39 possessions with Leinart at quarterback since the 2009 regular-season opener. That figure counts playoff games last season and two exhibition games this summer. Both touchdown drives came during Leinart's only 2009 regular-season start, a game the Cardinals nearly won at Tennessee. Some of those 39 possessions fell during clock-killing situations when the Cardinals weren't even trying to score, so the number is misleading without the right context.
Still, Leinart hasn't really earned the right to say it's only preseason -- exactly what he told ESPN's Michele Tafoya on the sideline -- even though this really is only preseason.
More on Leinart to come. Let's jump into seven observations before the Titans dial up another blitz:
1. Leinart has a big target on his back. Fortunately for him, backup Derek Anderson hasn't shown the accuracy to hit it. Anderson brings some swagger to the Cardinals' offense. The team perked up once Anderson entered the huddle. Leinart managed no first downs in his only three drives. Anderson converted one on his first play. Watching Anderson badly miss Steve Breaston wide open in the end zone had to make Whisenhunt cringe, however. Leinart has a better grasp of the offense, too.
2. Whisenhunt could have helped Leinart more. Whisenhunt could have shown some confidence in Leinart by going for it on fourth-and-1 from his own 41 on the opening drive. He opted for a punt instead -- an easy call if the game had counted, but a missed opportunity under the circumstances. Leinart needed help. The Cardinals' pass protection struggled against the Titans' blitzes, typical for preseason. Receiver Larry Fitzgerald wasn't playing and at least one other receiver, rookie Stephen Williams, seemed to surprise Leinart with the route he ran on a third-and-1 play. Leinart gets the benefit of the doubt on that one. He knows the offense. Williams is an undrafted free agent.
3. The defense brings an attitude. Joey Porter drilled Titans running back Chris Johnson early. Clark Haggans brought down Johnson hard. Darnell Dockett and Calais Campbell tagged Titans quarterback Vince Young to force an incompletion. These were some early signs that Arizona can play with attitude on defense. On the periphery, Stevie Baggs might have helped himself.
4. Trumaine McBride had a rough night. The race between McBride and Greg Toler to start at right cornerback should end with Toler winning the job. That was the expectation entering camp, anyway. McBride didn't help himself Monday night. He gave up one play over the middle, got away with interference after getting beat deep, then gave up a third-down reception. McBride even hit teammate Adrian Wilson while trying to make a tackle well downfield. I didn't see Toler as much, so it'll be interesting to hear Whisenhunt's take once the staff breaks down the game.
5. Arizona might have the divison's best special-teamer. LaRod Stephens-Howling plays special teams at a Pro Bowl level. He was bouncing off defenders during an early return. The MNF crew replayed some of Stephens-Howling's efforts against the Titans during the 2009 regular season, another reminder that Stephens-Howling dominates in coverage. The San Francisco 49ers' Michael Robinson is terrific on special teams, too -- check out his brutal block during the opening kickoff Sunday night -- but Stephens-Howling is right up there among the best.
6. Beanie Wells has to earn his place. What was Wells doing in the game well into the second half? He was doing what backups do. Yes, Wells is still a backup. Whisenhunt isn't going to hand starting status job to him. Makes sense on one level, but if Wells had suffered an injury carrying the ball with less than 5 minutes remaining in the third quarter? He didn't, so all is well.
7. It's not too late for Leinart. A strong showing from Leinart in the third exhibition game could make the Cardinals feel better about their offense in the post-Warner era. The 49ers' Alex Smith stepped up Sunday night despite playing without Frank Gore, Michael Crabtree or Vernon Davis. The Seattle Seahawks' Matt Hasselbeck made a positive statement Saturday night. The St. Louis Rams' Sam Bradford will try to do so Thursday night. There's still time for Leinart. Remember, he completed 24 of 38 passes for 346 yards and three touchdowns against Green Bay in the third exhibition game last season.
By Mike Sando
Coach Ken Whisenhunt and the Arizona Cardinals gave quarterback Matt Leinart little help Monday night during a 24-10 loss. The Tennessee Titans did Leinart no favors by blitzing against an offensive line that wasn't game-planning, this being preseason.
The Cardinals needed to see Leinart persevere anyway, or at least provide a spark, and it did not happen -- again. Three three-and-out possessions against the Tennessee Titans was not good enough given how much Leinart still must prove.
By my count, Arizona has scored two touchdowns in 39 possessions with Leinart at quarterback since the 2009 regular-season opener. That figure counts playoff games last season and two exhibition games this summer. Both touchdown drives came during Leinart's only 2009 regular-season start, a game the Cardinals nearly won at Tennessee. Some of those 39 possessions fell during clock-killing situations when the Cardinals weren't even trying to score, so the number is misleading without the right context.
Still, Leinart hasn't really earned the right to say it's only preseason -- exactly what he told ESPN's Michele Tafoya on the sideline -- even though this really is only preseason.
More on Leinart to come. Let's jump into seven observations before the Titans dial up another blitz:
1. Leinart has a big target on his back. Fortunately for him, backup Derek Anderson hasn't shown the accuracy to hit it. Anderson brings some swagger to the Cardinals' offense. The team perked up once Anderson entered the huddle. Leinart managed no first downs in his only three drives. Anderson converted one on his first play. Watching Anderson badly miss Steve Breaston wide open in the end zone had to make Whisenhunt cringe, however. Leinart has a better grasp of the offense, too.
2. Whisenhunt could have helped Leinart more. Whisenhunt could have shown some confidence in Leinart by going for it on fourth-and-1 from his own 41 on the opening drive. He opted for a punt instead -- an easy call if the game had counted, but a missed opportunity under the circumstances. Leinart needed help. The Cardinals' pass protection struggled against the Titans' blitzes, typical for preseason. Receiver Larry Fitzgerald wasn't playing and at least one other receiver, rookie Stephen Williams, seemed to surprise Leinart with the route he ran on a third-and-1 play. Leinart gets the benefit of the doubt on that one. He knows the offense. Williams is an undrafted free agent.
3. The defense brings an attitude. Joey Porter drilled Titans running back Chris Johnson early. Clark Haggans brought down Johnson hard. Darnell Dockett and Calais Campbell tagged Titans quarterback Vince Young to force an incompletion. These were some early signs that Arizona can play with attitude on defense. On the periphery, Stevie Baggs might have helped himself.
4. Trumaine McBride had a rough night. The race between McBride and Greg Toler to start at right cornerback should end with Toler winning the job. That was the expectation entering camp, anyway. McBride didn't help himself Monday night. He gave up one play over the middle, got away with interference after getting beat deep, then gave up a third-down reception. McBride even hit teammate Adrian Wilson while trying to make a tackle well downfield. I didn't see Toler as much, so it'll be interesting to hear Whisenhunt's take once the staff breaks down the game.
5. Arizona might have the divison's best special-teamer. LaRod Stephens-Howling plays special teams at a Pro Bowl level. He was bouncing off defenders during an early return. The MNF crew replayed some of Stephens-Howling's efforts against the Titans during the 2009 regular season, another reminder that Stephens-Howling dominates in coverage. The San Francisco 49ers' Michael Robinson is terrific on special teams, too -- check out his brutal block during the opening kickoff Sunday night -- but Stephens-Howling is right up there among the best.
6. Beanie Wells has to earn his place. What was Wells doing in the game well into the second half? He was doing what backups do. Yes, Wells is still a backup. Whisenhunt isn't going to hand starting status job to him. Makes sense on one level, but if Wells had suffered an injury carrying the ball with less than 5 minutes remaining in the third quarter? He didn't, so all is well.
7. It's not too late for Leinart. A strong showing from Leinart in the third exhibition game could make the Cardinals feel better about their offense in the post-Warner era. The 49ers' Alex Smith stepped up Sunday night despite playing without Frank Gore, Michael Crabtree or Vernon Davis. The Seattle Seahawks' Matt Hasselbeck made a positive statement Saturday night. The St. Louis Rams' Sam Bradford will try to do so Thursday night. There's still time for Leinart. Remember, he completed 24 of 38 passes for 346 yards and three touchdowns against Green Bay in the third exhibition game last season.
r0llin_game
Footballguy
Texans @ Saints
Saints
#1
-R. Bush gets the first carry of the game and takes it for a solid gain. Then receives a 3rd and 6 draw play for another 8 yard gain.
-Thomas had a good 8 yard run him, but could have bounced it in the 2nd level for perhaps a TD.
-Bush looks really good, getting through slim holes, making sharp cutbacks, this play for 13 yards. Next play he takes straight up the gut for a 9 yard TD. Very good series by Reggie.
#2
-Brees went deep on the 1st play, but overthrew Colston.
-Henderson makes a good catch in tight coverage on an out route and breaks a tackle to get a 1st.
-Bush motions wide and has Cushing matched up on him, and Brees makes another overthrow.
-Saints get the ball on a Holiday muffed PR.
-Brees makes an athletic slow when he slips and hits Colston who gets to the 1. Brees then jumps and reaches the ball across the plane for a TD.
#3
-Brees comes out
#4
-Thomas gets some good blocks on the screen easily runs in for a TD. Looked very fast on the play too
Texans
#1
-Foster got the start. Second run he lowered the shoulder into the defender and drove him for an extra yard or two.
#2
-Schaub gets sacked on a playaction that takes forever to develop. Texans get bailed out by a late hit on what would of been another 3 and out.
-Walter takes advantage of terrible coverage from Greer and gets wide open and makes a good catch to get inside the redzone.
-Foster makes a really nice cut and explodes through a hole to get into the endzone for a score.
#3
-Schaub makes a great playaction fake, then bootlegs and hits Dreessen for 18.
-Foster outright just lost the ball on a carry.
#4
-Schaub makes an accurate throw to a wide open Dreessen.
-Foster remains in the game after the fumble.
-Dre makes a grab for 7, Porter went and make a shoulder tackle at his knee. Looked pretty ugly and Dre is lucky he didn't get seriously injured.
__________________________________
Game writeup overview
The Texans looked a bit unready for the game. They followed up their first 3 and out with what should have been a second 3 and out. Matt Schaub made some solid throws and looked good overall. Arian Foster had some ups and downs. He scored on a TD where he exploded through a hole, the fumbled on a ball that he basically gave to the defense. He did get the reps in the first half over Steve Slaton. Slaton did end up with two kick returns, one he opened the second half with for 63 yards that the Texans couldn't take advantage of. Andre Johnson got lucky to avoid a serious knee injury. He made a grab and Tracy Porter went low on him and his knee took an awkward been. Jacoby Jones made a great catch while getting hit by two DB's the first play of the 4th quarter.
Drew Brees and the Saints came out firing and looked well into rhythm. Brees did have a couple of balls that he overthrew. He also scored a TD when they ran a QB sneak, but instead Brees jumped up and put the ball over the goal line. Reggie Bush looked like he was in USC form. He carried the ball with extreme confidence, and showed the burst of speed that he's known for. Pierre Thomas also demonstrated some burst of speed when he caught a screen pass that he then made look like an easy TD. There wasn't too much to note of the WR's other than the nice grab by Devery Henderson on the second drive. The Chase Daniels INT throw seemed very flat. With the exception of that, he looks like he should be able to lock up the backup spot behind Brees. P.J. Hill and Chris Ivory looked good when they were given the ball. Ivory broke some tackles and gained some tough yards.
Saints
#1
-R. Bush gets the first carry of the game and takes it for a solid gain. Then receives a 3rd and 6 draw play for another 8 yard gain.
-Thomas had a good 8 yard run him, but could have bounced it in the 2nd level for perhaps a TD.
-Bush looks really good, getting through slim holes, making sharp cutbacks, this play for 13 yards. Next play he takes straight up the gut for a 9 yard TD. Very good series by Reggie.
#2
-Brees went deep on the 1st play, but overthrew Colston.
-Henderson makes a good catch in tight coverage on an out route and breaks a tackle to get a 1st.
-Bush motions wide and has Cushing matched up on him, and Brees makes another overthrow.
-Saints get the ball on a Holiday muffed PR.
-Brees makes an athletic slow when he slips and hits Colston who gets to the 1. Brees then jumps and reaches the ball across the plane for a TD.
#3
-Brees comes out
#4
-Thomas gets some good blocks on the screen easily runs in for a TD. Looked very fast on the play too
Texans
#1
-Foster got the start. Second run he lowered the shoulder into the defender and drove him for an extra yard or two.
#2
-Schaub gets sacked on a playaction that takes forever to develop. Texans get bailed out by a late hit on what would of been another 3 and out.
-Walter takes advantage of terrible coverage from Greer and gets wide open and makes a good catch to get inside the redzone.
-Foster makes a really nice cut and explodes through a hole to get into the endzone for a score.
#3
-Schaub makes a great playaction fake, then bootlegs and hits Dreessen for 18.
-Foster outright just lost the ball on a carry.
#4
-Schaub makes an accurate throw to a wide open Dreessen.
-Foster remains in the game after the fumble.
-Dre makes a grab for 7, Porter went and make a shoulder tackle at his knee. Looked pretty ugly and Dre is lucky he didn't get seriously injured.
__________________________________
Game writeup overview
The Texans looked a bit unready for the game. They followed up their first 3 and out with what should have been a second 3 and out. Matt Schaub made some solid throws and looked good overall. Arian Foster had some ups and downs. He scored on a TD where he exploded through a hole, the fumbled on a ball that he basically gave to the defense. He did get the reps in the first half over Steve Slaton. Slaton did end up with two kick returns, one he opened the second half with for 63 yards that the Texans couldn't take advantage of. Andre Johnson got lucky to avoid a serious knee injury. He made a grab and Tracy Porter went low on him and his knee took an awkward been. Jacoby Jones made a great catch while getting hit by two DB's the first play of the 4th quarter.
Drew Brees and the Saints came out firing and looked well into rhythm. Brees did have a couple of balls that he overthrew. He also scored a TD when they ran a QB sneak, but instead Brees jumped up and put the ball over the goal line. Reggie Bush looked like he was in USC form. He carried the ball with extreme confidence, and showed the burst of speed that he's known for. Pierre Thomas also demonstrated some burst of speed when he caught a screen pass that he then made look like an easy TD. There wasn't too much to note of the WR's other than the nice grab by Devery Henderson on the second drive. The Chase Daniels INT throw seemed very flat. With the exception of that, he looks like he should be able to lock up the backup spot behind Brees. P.J. Hill and Chris Ivory looked good when they were given the ball. Ivory broke some tackles and gained some tough yards.
Jeff Pasquino
Footballguy
Preseason Week 3
Thu, Aug 26
Stadium Time (ET) Tickets Network DIRECTV SIRIUS Westwood One
STL @ NE Gillette Stadium 7:30 PM Tickets 127 (STL) 125 (NE)
IND @ GB Lambeau Field 8:00 PM Tickets ESPN 126 (IND) 124 (GB)
Fri, Aug 27
Stadium Time (ET) Tickets Network DIRECTV SIRIUS Westwood One
ATL @ MIA Sun Life Stadium 7:00 PM Tickets 91 (ATL) 125 (MIA)
WAS @ NYJ New Meadowlands Stadium 7:00 PM Tickets 130 (WAS) 126 (NYJ)
SD @ NO Superdome 8:00 PM Tickets CBS 122 (SD) 124 (NO)
PHI @ KC Arrowhead Stadium 8:00 PM Tickets 121 (PHI) 127 (KC)
Sat, Aug 28
Stadium Time (ET) Tickets Network DIRECTV SIRIUS Westwood One
CLE @ DET Ford Field 5:00 PM Tickets 129 (CLE) 125 (DET)
CIN @ BUF Ralph Wilson Stadium 6:30 PM Tickets 147 (CIN) 126 (BUF)
JAC @ TB Raymond James Stadium 7:30 PM Tickets 161 (JAC) 127 (TB)
NYG @ BAL M&T Bank Stadium 7:30 PM Tickets 152 (NYG) 91 (BAL)
DAL @ HOU Reliant Stadium 8:00 PM Tickets CBS 154 (DAL) 124 (HOU)
SEA @ MIN Mall of America Field 8:00 PM Tickets 121 (SEA) 90 (MIN)
TEN @ CAR Bank of America Stadium 8:00 PM Tickets 122 (CAR)
ARI @ CHI Soldier Field 8:30 PM Tickets 158 (ARI) 130 (CHI)
SF @ OAK Oakland Coliseum 9:00 PM Tickets 125 (OAK)
Sun, Aug 29
Stadium Time (ET) Tickets Network DIRECTV SIRIUS Westwood One
PIT @ DEN Invesco Field at Mile High 8:00 PM Tickets FOX 125 (PIT) 124 (DEN)
Byes: None
Thu, Aug 26
Stadium Time (ET) Tickets Network DIRECTV SIRIUS Westwood One
STL @ NE Gillette Stadium 7:30 PM Tickets 127 (STL) 125 (NE)
IND @ GB Lambeau Field 8:00 PM Tickets ESPN 126 (IND) 124 (GB)
Fri, Aug 27
Stadium Time (ET) Tickets Network DIRECTV SIRIUS Westwood One
ATL @ MIA Sun Life Stadium 7:00 PM Tickets 91 (ATL) 125 (MIA)
WAS @ NYJ New Meadowlands Stadium 7:00 PM Tickets 130 (WAS) 126 (NYJ)
SD @ NO Superdome 8:00 PM Tickets CBS 122 (SD) 124 (NO)
PHI @ KC Arrowhead Stadium 8:00 PM Tickets 121 (PHI) 127 (KC)
Sat, Aug 28
Stadium Time (ET) Tickets Network DIRECTV SIRIUS Westwood One
CLE @ DET Ford Field 5:00 PM Tickets 129 (CLE) 125 (DET)
CIN @ BUF Ralph Wilson Stadium 6:30 PM Tickets 147 (CIN) 126 (BUF)
JAC @ TB Raymond James Stadium 7:30 PM Tickets 161 (JAC) 127 (TB)
NYG @ BAL M&T Bank Stadium 7:30 PM Tickets 152 (NYG) 91 (BAL)
DAL @ HOU Reliant Stadium 8:00 PM Tickets CBS 154 (DAL) 124 (HOU)
SEA @ MIN Mall of America Field 8:00 PM Tickets 121 (SEA) 90 (MIN)
TEN @ CAR Bank of America Stadium 8:00 PM Tickets 122 (CAR)
ARI @ CHI Soldier Field 8:30 PM Tickets 158 (ARI) 130 (CHI)
SF @ OAK Oakland Coliseum 9:00 PM Tickets 125 (OAK)
Sun, Aug 29
Stadium Time (ET) Tickets Network DIRECTV SIRIUS Westwood One
PIT @ DEN Invesco Field at Mile High 8:00 PM Tickets FOX 125 (PIT) 124 (DEN)
Byes: None
Ministry of Pain
Footballguy
Marshall clearly caught and fumbled the ball, recovered by Ronnie Brown. Somehow on the replay the call was overturned after Marshall took two steps. Broadcasters asked if the rule had changed.
Ministry of Pain
Footballguy
Are the Nationals and Mets playing tonight? 6-5?
Maroney=Speed
Footballguy
Funny you posted this.
"Ear Muffs"
Footballguy
cr8f
Footballguy
You do know don't you asking for him in preseason is just preseason. That's what the "pre" is for.
I want to see how he looks in a game.
PinkydaPimp
Footballguy
Any other notes from the games this weekend?
Here is what I took away...Arian Foster is the real deal, he is being used as the Single Running Back in that offense. With turf toe on Slayton, it only further helps Foster.Javid Best was only in a couple plays and he looks like a beast. No matter where he is going when you draft, he represents value. NE continues to throw to the TE position like they never have. I feel this bumps Brady's value up a bit.Chicago may be one of the teams to play the opposing defense against each week. They have just looked horrible.I wouldn't be reaching to get Greene. LT continues to look good in that offense. He is obviously going to get a good number of carries, lots of passing downs, and maybe goal line carries. He is even getting a LOT of first down carries in preseason.The demise of Hightower and Addai will have to wait one more year. Both are still looking good and proving they deserve the bulk of the carries still.
Joe Summer
Footballguy
Pretty sure all the articles proclaiming Dennis Dixon's greatness will quietly disappear after tonight.
Multiple Scores
Footballguy
jolszews
Footballguy
Michael Fabiano has a nice summary of the week 3 games (from a fantasy perspective) at NFL.com: http://www.nfl.com/fantasy/story/09000d5d8...ance-vs-cowboys
FunkyPlutos
Footballguy
I don't know if he'll ever be an NFL QB, but it is tough to turn away from the TV when Joe Webb is in the game. Kid is an athlete!
LionsFan78
Footballguy
<_< Kid's looking like a dynasty must-stash if you have patience and space. Very intriguing.
