A couple of great games ahead!!! Alright Football Fans: who will win???
These teams deserve our attention, so make it count! :thumb:
I pick: Steelers and Eagles.
Why???Just cuz! :p

Not just trying to be different, but I like the Pats/Falcons.

I'm going Pats/Eagles just like I said during preseason. Go get em boyz
https://shop.paid.com/mattlight/images/ted16.jpg
http://www.southjerseynews.com/football/eagles/images/s012802a.jpg

Steelers win on a fumble recovery and return for a touchdown in the final moments of regulation.

Eagles win in OT on a 45-yard pass-on-the-run from McNabb to Lewis.


What can I say, I love tight games and big plays. :thumb:

My head tells me it won't be this way.


My heart goes with the team from the "inferior" NFC that has tried and tried and tried again.....I'd like to think persistance brings rewards.

Why is it called for to have a seperate NFL thread every few days?
What was wrong with the first one?

Just asking.

...craig

I hope that's the case Red. It'll be a message to kids that you never give up, no matter how many times you lose. Always try and work as hard as you can, and you will be rewarded in the end.

E
A
G
L
E
S

EAGLES!!!!

Why is it called for to have a seperate NFL thread every few days?
What was wrong with the first one?

Just asking.

...craig

Cause Brew and I are mods and we can do what we want. :D

Actually, I like having the seperate threads just so we can have our picks and general discussion about the games here, without clogging up the main NFL thread. If that makes any sense.

I'm going Pats/Eagles just like I said during preseason. Go get em boyz
Your pre-season prediction's are darn good, just that the Steelers will pull one out this time. I am getting sick of the Patriots attention from the media.
And yeah I know their post season magic history, but the Steelers have my vote this time around.

We'll see. Vegas doesn't happen to agree. They're giving 3 points to the Patriots to win, on the road. That says something, so I'll go with the Pats. But I did say that it'll be tough for any team to go into Pittsburgh and win, and I'm sure the Steelers will come ready to play. It'll be fun watching Bruschi and Porter knocking the opposing offenses around. This has to be the game of the year I would think.

Why is it called for to have a seperate NFL thread every few days?
What was wrong with the first one?

Just asking.

...craigThanks for asking: Like Sucka said, we can do what we want. :D
The "official NFL season thread" is for any type of NFL talk, the rest obviously are for the thread title at hand. It just keeps everything on topic as best as it can be. It's not like we will have 50 topics on the NFL or cow tipping, it is condensed, like cow milk in a can :D
Ohh, nothing is wrong with the first thread, it just seemed to have the wrong title, I was hoping Brett could get back the entire thread after it got friggin hacked. So, I just changed the title. Me and Sucka are doing our best to make this forum kick ass and be organized at the same time. Different topics, but topics along the lines of the same sport will have different threads here. LIKE: Fantasy, playoffs, championships and World Series, Super Bowls etc....If we need to, like I did, we will change a thread title to fit the users demands, and conveniences....hope this helps bro!

Cause Brew and I are mods and we can do what we want. :D

Actually, I like having the seperate threads just so we can have our picks and general discussion about the games here, without clogging up the main NFL thread. If that makes any sense.


Frankly, it makes little to no sense.

A single NFL thread would be neccessary...instead, let us start a new one every weekend, so folk don't know where to post.

Great thought process.

Or should I have put this in one in the other 2-3 threads to get a response?
Dunno where to post :brickwall .


chef.

I think the Eagles will win.

Pats/Steelers I have no idea, that will be a good game. I think it will be a low scoring game.

Sucka, you think T.O. would be back by Feb. 6, if the Eagles make it?

I heard the announcers mention they had been told he had a long way to go.

Wouldn't it be ironic as hell if they won it all without the final piece of the puzzle?

I think having seperate threads is good. NFL threads for news and general discussion, and playoff threads. Hell, there's a whole sports forum now, gotta put something in there.

Back on track, if the Pats played like they did against the Colts the rest of the way, they are money to win it all, period.

STEELERS all the way! After next Sunday, the Patriots aren't going to be able to shit right for a month.

I'll go with the Patriots and Eagles. The Eagles because I can relate and Sucka is a stand up dude, and the Pats just because. I'll save my Super Bowl pick for the Super Bowl thread.

Darby, you talk a lot of shit behind a team that's going to get crushed if they play like they did last Saturday. The Patriots play just as good on defense as the Jets and better on offense.

Another vote for Pats/Eagles.

Sucka, you think T.O. would be back by Feb. 6, if the Eagles make it?

I heard the announcers mention they had been told he had a long way to go.

Wouldn't it be ironic as hell if they won it all without the final piece of the puzzle?

I'm guaranteeing you that Owens will be back. Pam Oliver shouldn't believe everything she hears from the trainers. Of course he's not going to come right out and say that Owens will be back. Andy even said that what she reported was false. Owens is well ahead of schedule, and I've even seen him walking without crutches or a noticable limp. The guy will be back for sure, but that's IF we make it to the Super Bowl.

Darby, you talk a lot of shit behind a team that's going to get crushed if they play like they did last Saturday. The Patriots play just as good on defense as the Jets and better on offense.

I know its cold out here right now (7 degrees) but I think hell is also frozen over because I agree with Wray on this one.

But one thing he got worng was that the Patriots have a BETTER defense than the Jets.

Give Bellichik a second look at a team and he just about always wins. He is unbeaten when he comes up with a game plan the second time around in the same season against a QB. Rothlisberger will look like the rookie he is.

People (the Steeler fans) take took much stock into the Halloween game in which the Steelers ended the Patriots winning streak.
New Enlgand turned the ball over atleast 4 times that game (very uncharisteristic of this team), their only 2 losses came when they have atleast 4 turnovers. PLus Corey Dillon did not play in that game.

Patriots will win the game like 27-13.

And the Eagles will win 31-24.

Then next we can start the Superbowl Thread.

Steelers/Eagles

For this weekend:
Steelers 38 Patriots 17
Why? Because the Steelers are going to be able to run the ball and control the clock. Because Dillon will not be able to run well enough. And our running game will open up the passing game just in case we need it.

Offense: Ben's looked like a rookie in what? 3 games or so? He's won 14 and lost zero. He was third in the AFC in passer rating while Brady finished fifth. The Steelers were second in the league in rushing yards per game and New England was seventh with a 21 yard differential. New England did it mostly with 1 guy who finished third in the league while the Steelers did it with our best rusher finishing 20th overall. If New England tries to run the ball all game, Dillon's going to get punished... a lot. I don't think the Pats can sustain a solid rushing game for 4 quarters like the Steelers can with up to 3 or 4 rotating backs and a mobile QB.
I don't think the Pats defense can get in Ben's head. He doesn't really get rattled. He learns from his mistakes and stays upbeat. He knows he can win.
Defense: New England allowed 17 more yards per game on the ground and 35 more through the air throughout the regular season. Steelers were first in the league... 'nuff said.
Overall: The Steelers are a more physical team. Guys like Polamalu will be crushing people the whole game. Hines Ward will catch almost anything that's even close to his hands whether he takes a hit or not.

Other: It may come down to turnovers where both teams are pretty close (Pitt +12, NE +10) in which case all bets are off. If it becomes a kicker's game, the Pats have the advantage but the longest field goal ever at Heinz field is 46 yards so you better get close!

Eagles 35 Falcons 21

Sorry, don't have a strong opinion... Just a gut feeling...

:D

Pats and Eagles, both in blowouts...

Pats over Eagles in the big one...

I say this because I know everything there is to know about NFL football

Chalk up another vote for a Patriots/Eagles Superbowl.

New England and Philadelphia will win.

I know its cold out here right now (7 degrees) but I think hell is also frozen over because I agree with Wray on this one.

But one thing he got worng was that the Patriots have a BETTER defense than the Jets.

Give Bellichik a second look at a team and he just about always wins. He is unbeaten when he comes up with a game plan the second time around in the same season against a QB. Rothlisberger will look like the rookie he is.

People (the Steeler fans) take took much stock into the Halloween game in which the Steelers ended the Patriots winning streak.
New Enlgand turned the ball over atleast 4 times that game (very uncharisteristic of this team), their only 2 losses came when they have atleast 4 turnovers. PLus Corey Dillon did not play in that game.

Patriots will win the game like 27-13.

And the Eagles will win 31-24.

Then next we can start the Superbowl Thread.



It is cold, windy, I'm hung-over and dearest christ, I find myself agreeing with (of all folk) Eddymon.

If indeed the sloppiness of play from Saturday rears it's ugly head within the Steeler's game plan this weekend (and let's face it, the Pittsburg defense saved their collective ass that day), expect a New England victory.

Yecccchhhhh.

I do believe people are taking Atlanta for granted, however. (Well, everyone exept me and Sucka...)

I think all of us would agree there was some odd and unforgivable mental mistakes made in the Vikings-Eagles game, not to take anything away from the final score.

I know, I know, a win is a win. Yet these are the kind of things that hungry (and well prepared) teams consume heartily.

Hey, I actually have Sunday off from work for a change, and as a result will not be forced to listen to the game thru my AM/FM Walkman! :bounce:

Sadly, not much football left in this season, yet hell...what remains should be terrific!

...craig :thumb:

LOL, don't even try to put Ben in the same sentence with Brady, yet. He's got a couple more games to win before that talk can even start.

Okay, so Ben's unflappable. Then wtf happened against the Jets? The same Jets that the Pats just smoked, in NJ, a month ago? Bottom line is that the Jets should have won that game.

Oh, yeah, and I don't think you'd care to mention Ben in the same class as Peyton, yet, right? And the Pats have hung up Peyton like 5 or 6 times in a row now. Peyton's worst QB ratings of the past two years have all been Pats. Yeah, they can get into the head of one of the games all time greats, but not Ben's :rolleyes:

On another, negative for the Pats note, these Steelers kind of remind me of the Pats the last two Superbowl wins - a lot of fortunate bounces to win games, and a lot of close wins. Those close ones help at this time of year. I honestly don't like the fact that the Pats have been hammering teams this year. One of their hallmarks was pulling out the close ones, and when they aren't close, you don't build up the mettle to do that.

Otherwise, yap yap yap, it'll be settled one way or the other Sunday night. Frankly, I think anything can happen. It could be a blow out or a tight one, with either team winning. Who'd a thunk that they'd have hammered trhe Colts the way they did? That game wasn't even close. Manning only threw two balls into the end zone the whole game; one was intercepted, one should have been intercepted.

If the Pats made Manning look so horrible, what are they gonna do to Rottenwieller? If the Pats get up early and make the Steelers come from behind, this game will be over - and over quickly. The Patriots will win yet another Super Bowl.

Pats over Falcons in the big one.

I don't know if I'm going to be able to handle this all week - just get the game here already! I do hope that both games are good though, though if there needs to be a blowout, hopefully it'll be the Patriots blowing out the Steelers - just so I don't have to be up on my nerves the whole game!

This was a really interesting article. I enjoyed it, so I thought I'd share.

Sports Illustrated (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2005/writers/dr_z/01/17/drz.edwards/index.html?cnn=yes)

There are coaches who are always looking for ways to beat you, who will go for the throat. Give us 40 seconds and one time out and we'll put points on the board, is their philosophy. These coaches have Super Bowl rings.

There are coaches whose playbooks are filled with things that can go wrong. They have a fine working knowledge of the terrors of the game. They coach not to lose. Yet they lose, maybe not over the course of a season, or a career, but they lose the big ones. Let me tell you about this latter breed.

I am covering a Bills-Jets game in Shea Stadium in the 1970s. Buffalo is coached by Chuck Knox, very sound, very straight up by the book, owner of an illustrious career without a championship of any kind. The Bills are nursing a small lead into the game's closing moments. They're running the ball. It's a familiar script. Bills run, Jets stop it and call their time outs. Bills punt, Jets have one more shot and it's a thrilling finish.

All of a sudden, with the Jets out of time outs, Buffalo QB Joe Ferguson throws an eight-yard out and buys a first down. A couple of kneels later, it's over. I hunt down Ferguson in the Bills' locker.

"Whose call?" I asked him.

"Bench call," he says, cutting his eyes away from mine.

"Don't give me that," I say. "There's no way in the world Chuck Knox makes a call like that."

"OK, OK, it was mine, and I got in a hell of a lot of trouble for it," Ferguson says, "but don't tell anyone, OK?"

One night in San Francisco I was listening to John Brodie, the 49ers' great quarterback, telling old stories about the mentality of coaches -- particularly his own, Dick Nolan. Dick won his share, but never the big one.

"We're ahead by a couple of points," Brodie says, "and Coach Nolan tells me to run the ball and work the clock. Gene Washington comes back to the huddle and says, 'The corner will bite on the hitch and go.' I say, 'Let's do it.'

"So I throw it to Gene, and it's like stealing. Bam, six points. Game's over and everybody goes home. Coach Nolan bawled me out for it."

We saw this coaching mentality at work twice in the last two weeks. It's not often we get to see a coach have the chance to profit from a compatriot's awful mistake, but that's what happened. San Diego's Marty Schottenheimer blew the wild-card game to the Jets because he refused to take a chance and move his field goal kicker closer than a 40-yard attempt. Which sailed wide.

Buoyed up by this memory, Jets coach Herman Edwards found himself in exactly the same position in Pittsburgh, the situation bearing a spooky resemblance to the Schottenheimer affair. Only this time the kick was from 43 yards. And the kicker, Doug Brien, had already missed a 47-yarder, when, as he described it, "the wind seemed to push the ball down." And this was in a stadium so tricky to kick in that the longest field goal ever accomplished within its confines was 46 yards.

Nevertheless Edwards chose to shut the book at the page that read, "field goal, 43 yards." Even worse, he had his quarterback kneel on third down, lengthening the distance by a yard, in some goofy attempt to run off two more seconds. And, of course, we know what happened. The Steelers, not the Jets, are in the AFC title game.

You cannot say people like Knox, Nolan and Edwards are wrong any more than you can say a person is wrong for voting a certain way. It's in their genes, their bloodlines. They can't help themselves. They coach not to lose. Edwards, no doubt, saw a sack, a fumble, an interception, as he visualized a serious attempt to advance the ball against the Steelers. What he didn't see was a couple of first downs and a gimme field goal of 30 yards or so.

No rule is absolute, and coaches such as this might catch a rare bit of fortune and actually come out on top in a big one, although the record is heavily against it. In college, it's a completely different story. Clunkers abound. Things are done by the book, but it is possible to win despite this if they can corral enough great athletes. You can beat people by your personnel, by the strength of your program. It's much tougher in the NFL.

If it comes down to late strategy, clever use of time outs, innovation or such, I really don't see how the Jets would beat anybody. At first I thought clock management was the problem. Well, obviously Edwards recognized this, so this season he assigned the job to Dick Curl, a veteran coach whom the players dubbed Grandfather Clock. But nothing changed. They still screwed up the clock dramatically against Baltimore ... and again, when they didn't stop it at the end of regulation time against San Diego ... and still again when they just let it melt away against Pittsburgh.

And the sideline shots showed instead of one blank face, that of Edwards, two blank faces this time, belonging to Edwards and Curl, his clockologist. This is the way they coach, and they are not alone. Schottenheimer coaches not to lose. So do a few others, not as many as there used to be, but some.

Mike Martz in St. Louis always has been a proponent of the other breed, a go-for-the-throat guy. But last year, when faced with a crucial situation at the end of regulation time in the divisional playoff against Carolina, with the ball on the Panthers' 15 and a chance to win the game with seven points, he let the clock run down, kicked a field goal and lost in overtime.

"I've never regretted a decision as much in my life," he told me in the offseason. "All I could see was a turnover, a fumble, an interception. I'd never coached like that before, and I hope I never do again."

Most coaches nowadays have gotten away from the Edwards-Schottenheimer mentality. The rules have made it just too convenient to throw the ball. Mike Shanahan; Mike Holmgren; Bill Belichick and his offensive coordinator, Charlie Weis; even old timers such as Bill Parcells and Dick Vermeil, are always looking to put up points, to throw the ball when they're killing the clock, to score in a hurry. The old-line thinkers are kind of quaint now, like blacksmiths or snuff box collectors.

Vince Lombardi was perceived by some as being a conservative, when in truth he was an innovator. He was the first to throw long on third-and-short. He opened up the running game with his run-to-daylight approach. And he knew how to work a game.

Edwards and Schottenheimer have received much applause for taking their teams as far as they did this season. But unless their mentality changes, they will give the enemy a huge advantage in a close game when the stakes are highest. It's a shame for their players and their fans, but as far as their own thinking is concerned, the light hasn't come on yet. They think they're giving their team the best chance to win, when all they're really doing is lengthening the odds.

Okay, so Ben's unflappable. Then wtf happened against the Jets? The same Jets that the Pats just smoked, in NJ, a month ago? Bottom line is that the Jets should have won that game.
He made some mistakes but he took them down the field for the win when it counted. Yeah, we're lucky that Brien missed the field goals, but the real bottom line is that Ben did what needed to be done and the Steelers came out with the win.

Oh, yeah, and I don't think you'd care to mention Ben in the same class as Peyton, yet, right? And the Pats have hung up Peyton like 5 or 6 times in a row now. Peyton's worst QB ratings of the past two years have all been Pats. Yeah, they can get into the head of one of the games all time greats, but not Ben's :rolleyes:
I think the Steelers got in Brady's head in week 8. He was not the same guy in that game. Could it happen again? Sure, why not? I kind of feel like Ben's too green to worry too much. If he loses, the worst anyone can say is "Oh well, he's a rookie." If he wins... it's indisputably the best rookie season the NFL has ever seen.


Otherwise, yap yap yap, it'll be settled one way or the other Sunday night. Frankly, I think anything can happen. It could be a blow out or a tight one, with either team winning.

Yep, but it's still fun to debate it anyway. :D Most of the people posting in this thread feel strongly one way or the other especially if your team's playing. I for one cannot wait until Sunday just to find out one way or the other. I have a feeling it's going to come down to who makes the most/biggest mistakes. I'm going to bet it'll be decided by turnovers instead of stellar offense.

It all comes down to coaching, and Belichick will get it done IMO. This guy is the best at coming up with defensive schemes, and I fully expect Ben to be in for a long day.

Great read...thanks man.

...craig :thumb:

I love that every is thinks that the falcons arent a good football team. Nobody is even giving them a chance. I like it but i hate it at the same time. This team is a lot better than people think. I think they can beat the eagles. I could see a score of like 27 - 24 falcons win. It will be a close game. The only two things they really dont do well is passing down the field and coverage of the pass on defense. Are safties at times blow thier zones to many times. So those things worry me. I see Philly found their wrs last weekend. They can fianlly shut up about the without T.O factor. Down here i guess T.O called Jimmy Farris on his cell and said he is going to play this weekend vs the falcons. I know that T.O wont be ready. Playing some mind games. You got to love T.O...lol. All i can say I cant wait for Sunday to roll around. And i hope to see the Falcons win. Go Falcons!!!!!!! Sorry sucka looks like you might have to wait another year.

It just struck me that both Championship games are being played in Pennsylvania! That's kinda cool!

Excellent read ebmm! Thanks! :)

I love that every is thinks that the falcons arent a good football team. Nobody is even giving them a chance. I like it but i hate it at the same time. This team is a lot better than people think. I think they can beat the eagles. I could see a score of like 27 - 24 falcons win. It will be a close game. The only two things they really dont do well is passing down the field and coverage of the pass on defense. Are safties at times blow thier zones to many times. So those things worry me. I see Philly found their wrs last weekend. They can fianlly shut up about the without T.O factor. Down here i guess T.O called Jimmy Farris on his cell and said he is going to play this weekend vs the falcons. I know that T.O wont be ready. Playing some mind games. You got to love T.O...lol. All i can say I cant wait for Sunday to roll around. And i hope to see the Falcons win. Go Falcons!!!!!!! Sorry sucka looks like you might have to wait another year.

Haha, I hope not Tommy! I do respect your ball club, and do think that the Falcons are on the rise, but they're not ready yet. If we get up on them early, it's over for Vick when he's forced to pass. The Falcons recievers aren't any better then ours, except for our WR's can stretch the field and catch deep balls. We've done a good job on Warrick Dunn in the past, so I hope that continues. And mobile QBs, even Vick, haven't hurt us in the past, and I don't see that changing over night. The attitude of this Eagles team is different than year's past, so I can see them winning this one just on pride alone. I do think that it might be a close one, and like that 27-24 score.

The Eagles have to prove to me that they're not going to choke in the championship game like usual. Until then, I'm going with whoever plays them in the big game.

Interesting that the comments about the Eagles choking came from a Peyton Manning fan. ;)

Just busting 'em on ya, Wray. I was rooting for your boys. I can't stand the Pats.

Interesting that the comments about the Eagles choking came from a Peyton Manning fan. ;)

Just busting 'em on ya, Wray. I was rooting for your boys. I can't stand the Pats.

I was actually thinking the same thing. No offense Wray, but that was a very interesting comment coming from a Colts fan. The Eagles have to show me this weekend that they can do it, but I already believe that they can. This is the first time we've been healthy going into an NFC Championship game, and I'm pretty happy about that. Got a big storm coming our way that could possibly drop up to 2ft of snow on us, so that will affect both teams for sure. I just hope the best team wins, and that team is the Philadelphia Eagles.

Now to the Steelers game. I have a stat for you Pittsburgh fans to chew on. Facing a QB for the second time, Bill Belichick's Patriots are an unbelievable 13-0. That's outstanding.

No offense Wray, but that was a very interesting comment coming from a Colts fan.

Not really, Sucka. We simply got beat by a better team, on the road, two years in a row. Philly has lost three straight NFC Championship games against three different teams. Two of which were on their home field, correct? My opinion is that Tampa was a better team that year, but the other two times I thought, and still do think, that Philly was the better team.

You thought that the Eagles were better then the record setting St. Louis Rams?

Yup.

Ok, I respect your opinion. I just don't agree. Not sure how much you followed our team that year, but Donovan was only in his third year I believe, and had NO weapons on offense to speak of. He wasn't nearly as good then as he is now, and sure as heck wasn't going to get any help from Torrance Small, Charles Johnson, and a rookie Freddie Mitchell. Add on top of that that our best cover corner in Troy Vincent was hurt, so we were left with no real secondary to defend against the Rams. Our offense consisted of, McNabb, Chad Lewis, Duce Staley..........*crickets chirping* Yea that's about it.

The Rams however could hit you with, Kurt Warner, Marshall Faulk, Az Hakim, Tory Holt, Issac Bruce, and one of the most solid O'lines in the business. We had no shot of winning that game, and I'm still suprised that we won.

I'll give you the Panthers game, but that's a game we shouldn't have even been in. We were playing with a depleted D'line, our best linebacker Carlos Emmons was injured, Westbrook was injured, Bobby Taylor and Troy Vincent missed about 9 games, no Hollis Thomas, Paul Grasmanis, Trotter was playing in Washington, no Hugh Douglas, shall I go on? It's amazing that we made it as far as we did. And after using all that energy to come back against the Packers the week before, I just don't think we had anything left in the tank.

I don't want to make excuses for them because we still only lost 14-3 last year, but it was very clear that we were under manned for that game, and for the entire season if you ask me. It's amazing we got as far as we did, so that should tell you about some of the character that's on this Eagle team. They're not rolling over for Vick this week. Count on it.

You have to admit though Wray that a lot of the so called "experts" were picking your boys to win. Hell, the line on the game went from the Colts getting 2.5 points on Monday to GIVING 1 point by kickoff.

I don't question the character of your team, Sucka. I'm not even saying that they'll "loose," as Eddymon would say. But after losing three straight NFC Championship games, regardless of the circumstances, they have to prove that they can win.

You have to admit though Wray that a lot of the so called "experts" were picking your boys to win. Hell, the line on the game went from the Colts getting 2.5 points on Monday to GIVING 1 point by kickoff.

I have to admit what, exactly? I'm not sure what this has to do with the Eagles.

Now to the Steelers game. I have a stat for you Pittsburgh fans to chew on. Facing a QB for the second time, Bill Belichick's Patriots are an unbelievable 13-0. That's outstanding.
C'mon Sucka, you think that matters? They'd won what, 21 straight games including playoffs before we beat them by 2 TD's. That's outstanding as well. Or how 'bout Ben's 14-0 record? That's better than the Pats record when they face a QB for the second time. Streaks are made to be broken and any team can win on any given Sunday. Who knows for sure what'll happen? In terms of team performances for the year, I still think the Steelers have the edge.
One thing that might make this game a little more interesting...
Rodney Harrison and Hines Ward were voted numbers 1 and 2 respectively in a poll of current and former players as to who's the dirtiest player in the league. :devil:
I don't follow Harrison too closely but I don't see Hines as being a dirty player. He doesn't get flagged a lot either. Anyone have any insight on why that is? If those two get together on Sunday, things could get heated!

I agree, and they BETTER proove it and not "loose", because this town will eat them alive. I can't even imagine what it'll be like on monday if we "loose" this game.

C'mon Sucka, you think that matters? They'd won what, 21 straight games including playoffs before we beat them by 2 TD's. That's outstanding as well. Or how 'bout Ben's 14-0 record? That's better than the Pats record when they face a QB for the second time. Streaks are made to be broken and any team can win on any given Sunday. Who knows for sure what'll happen? In terms of team performances for the year, I still think the Steelers have the edge.
One thing that might make this game a little more interesting...
Rodney Harrison and Hines Ward were voted numbers 1 and 2 respectively in a poll of current and former players as to who's the dirtiest player in the league. :devil:
I don't follow Harrison too closely but I don't see Hines as being a dirty player. He doesn't get flagged a lot either. Anyone have any insight on why that is? If those two get together on Sunday, things could get heated!

13-0 the second time you see a starting QB in the NFL is flat out great. And this is a rookie at that, not some veteran, and last week he showed that he can be shaken. You Steeler fans better be worried because Belichick is the best at rattling QB's. Young and old.

As far as Hines, yea I think he can be dirty sometimes. He does alot of after the whistle stuff, but I'd never seen him intentionally try and hurt somebody. IMO, Hines is one of the good guys in the NFL. Just works hard from whistle to whistle, and well, a little after the whistle! LOL Good guy though, and very tough.

You Steeler fans better be worried because Belichick is the best at rattling QB's. Young and old.



Better than Jim Johnson? :eek:

Better than Jim Johnson? :eek:

Yes, but not by much. Those two eat Qb's for breakfast.

I have to admit what, exactly? I'm not sure what this has to do with the Eagles.

Sorry, went to sleep last night before your reply. I was responding to your comment that the Colts got beat by a better team. While I think it's stand up for you to admit that, I can't believe that you are not going to acknowledge the fact that Peyton Manning, who had the greatest REGULAR season by a QB ever, once again folded like a cheap tent in a big game. All of the hype surrounding the game was about "how can the Pats stop Manning?" All of the experts predicted a Colts win. The Colts ended up as favorites in Foxboro, so a lot of the betting public got behind the Colts. This was his opportunity to step up and slay the dragon, to get the monkey off of his back, to prove he can win a big game, and he fell on his face again. You want the Eagles to prove to you that they can win a big game? I want Manning to do the same for me.

You can't tell me that you were looking at that game, seeing the Pats decimated secondary, and weren't wondering how many TD's Peyton was going to throw.

All that being said, if you did acknowledge Manning's performance in another thread, I apologize for suggesting you didn't. Back to the essence of my original statement, I just found it ironic that a Colts fan would be talking about choking in big games.

Its gonna be a great game, period.

It will be interesting to see how much Belichek gets into Big Ben's head and how well the rookie handles the pressure.
Alot of people are talking about him as the 2004 version of Tom Brady when he took over the Patriots. But until he wins it all there is no comparison.

Don't forget Bill Cowhers AFC Title games chokes of past, he is to that game what Marty Shottenchoker is to the first round of the playoffs.

This should be a great game, I am very surprised that the Patriots are favored (especially by 3 points) on the road. The home team essentially gets 3 points anyways, that really makes it a 6 point line. I guess the dismanteling of the Colts finally gave Vegas a clue as to just how good this team really is.
Espn's Chris Mortenson is labeling them as the BEST TEAM EVER.

Win or "LOSE":D both team are better than Philly or Atlanta and whoever wins that game will win the Superbowl, both teams have the better offenses than the NFC counterparts and superior defenses as well. Altanta won't be able to run against either team and I'll let Vick try to beat me in the air anyday. And Philly won't have enough weapons to beat either team as well but would prove to be a better opponent.

I was responding to your comment that the Colts got beat by a better team. While I think it's stand up for you to admit that, I can't believe that you are not going to acknowledge the fact that Peyton Manning, who had the greatest REGULAR season by a QB ever, once again folded like a cheap tent in a big game.

Well, first you have to make a decision. Either the Patriots were simply better than the Colts and had their way with them, or the Colts were the better team and choked away the game.

I think the Colts situation is completely different than the Eagles situation. The Colts simply can't beat the Patriots, which tells me that the Pats are just the better team. The Eagles have lost three straight NFC title games against three different teams. But that's just my opinion, and maybe this is the year that the Eagles get that monkey off their back.

Well, first you have to make a decision. Either the Patriots were simply better than the Colts and had their way with them, or the Colts were the better team and choked away the game.

I think the Colts situation is completely different than the Eagles situation. The Colts simply can't beat the Patriots, which tells me that the Pats are just the better team. The Eagles have lost three straight NFC title games against three different teams. But that's just my opinion, and maybe this is the year that the Eagles get that monkey off their back.


Well said. Considering that you weren't guaranteeing a Colts victory, I guess I was wrong asking you to answer to a Colts "choke".

The Eagles will triumph and win the Super bowl!

The Eagles will triumph and win the Super bowl!
http://www.jsonline.com/packer/image/2002/other/eagles011902.jpg :)

ESPN's NFL Live predictions:

Atlanta/Philadelphia
Wingo: Eagles
Golic: Eagles
Salisbury: Eagles

Pittsburgh/New England
Golic: Steelers
Salisbury: Patriots

At least somebody's giving us a chance!

ESPN's NFL Live predictions:

Atlanta/Philadelphia
Wingo: Eagles
Golic: Eagles
Salisbury: Eagles

Pittsburgh/New England
Golic: Steelers
Salisbury: Patriots

At least somebody's giving us a chance!

Nothing from Mr. Merrill Hoge yet? I'm praying that the Eagles win so this jackass can eat some crow on national tv.

Yes, but not by much. Those two eat Qb's for breakfast.

Belechik is not their d-coordinator, but he has alot to do with the game plan. No disrespect to Johnson, but Lebeau is hands down the best co-ordinator in the NFL.

Nothing from Mr. Merrill Hoge yet? I'm praying that the Eagles win so this jackass can eat some crow on national tv.
Yeah, he's calling for a Steelers/Falcons Super Bowl. He was on 'DVE this morning. Then after Merrill, they had Len Pasquerelli (Pittsburgh native) on and he said that while he'd like for the Steelers to win, he doesn't think they will. Personally, I'd like the Pennsylvania Super Bowl... but I don't really care who we play as long as the Steelers are in it. :D

Belechik is not their d-coordinator, but he has alot to do with the game plan. No disrespect to Johnson, but Lebeau is hands down the best co-ordinator in the NFL.

No he's not their d-coordinator, but as a former coordinator he has his hands in on what the defense is going to bring game to game. And I like Dick Lebeau, but he is not the best d co-ordinator in the NFL IMO. I watched Jim Johnson's defense lead us on a 9-0 winning streak last season without his two pro-bowl CB's, no Brian Dawkins who is also a pro-bowler, no Hugh Douglas or Derrick Burgess at DE, of course no Kearse or Trotter, and Carlos Emmons wound up breaking his leg. Damn, and Hollis Thomas and Paul Grasmanis both wound up getting hurt for the year, and those were are two best run stoppers. With all that, we went on that 9 game winning streak, and of course got to the NFC Championship game. Jim Johnson IMHO is THE best defensive schemist in the NFL. Dick Lebeau's defense has had the better year this year though, and I'll admit that.

Yeah, he's calling for a Steelers/Falcons Super Bowl. He was on 'DVE this morning. Then after Merrill, they had Len Pasquerelli (Pittsburgh native) on and he said that while he'd like for the Steelers to win, he doesn't think they will. Personally, I'd like the Pennsylvania Super Bowl... but I don't really care who we play as long as the Steelers are in it. :D

Why can't he be a man and just admit he was wrong? That's all I would like. Not that it matters to me personally, but I do get tired of his bullshit on ESPN. I wouldn't mind an all PA Bowl either, but I'm still going with the Pats since it was my pick earlier on. It's gonna be so tough though for the Pats to win in Pittsburgh because neither team is gonna lay down. I think I'm more excited to see that game then I am for the Eagles.

I think a strong case could be made for Tony Dungy when it comes to defense. We're nowhere near where we need to be, but the Colts only have defensive talent at the DE and S positions, yet were at the top of the league in sacks and forced turnovers. Not only that, but behind the scenes (some even publicly), a lot of the guys from that TB championship team credit that SB win to Dungy.

Why can't he be a man and just admit he was wrong? That's all I would like. Not that it matters to me personally, but I do get tired of his bullshit on ESPN. I wouldn't mind an all PA Bowl either, but I'm still going with the Pats since it was my pick earlier on. It's gonna be so tough though for the Pats to win in Pittsburgh because neither team is gonna lay down. I think I'm more excited to see that game then I am for the Eagles.
Well, he isn't wrong yet... I'm very excited as well and it's more than just because it's my team. There are a lot of interesting dynamics going on surrounding the game and the two teams.

They're calling for 10-15 inches of snow on saturday in Pittsburgh, I assume Philly will get it sunday.

They're calling for 10-15 inches of snow on saturday in Pittsburgh, I assume Philly will get it sunday.
WHAT?? :eek::eek: I haven't heard anything! Where did you hear that?

A friend of mine is a weather man, he sent me their 96 hour projection map, I'd post it but I dont know how to add a jpeg image here.

Well, he isn't wrong yet... I'm very excited as well and it's more than just because it's my team. There are a lot of interesting dynamics going on surrounding the game and the two teams.

Oh but he is wrong. He said that the Philadelphia Eagles would not make the playoffs this season. I think they played a playoff game a few days ago, but that could have been my imagination. :)

A friend of mine is a weather man, he sent me their 96 hour projection map, I'd post it but I dont know how to add a jpeg image here.

Yea samirose is right. We're gonna get hit big time, but from what I know about the crew at the Linc, they'll have the field cleaned off as much as they can. The snow will start saturday, and end before game time, or a little after kickoff. So hopefully the guys will have enough chance to get out there and get the field cleaned off. The real problem is the 20 mph winds that are set to come thru that open ended stadium.

Yea samirose is right. We're gonna get hit big time, but from what I know about the crew at the Linc, they'll have the field cleaned off as much as they can. The snow will start saturday, and end before game time, or a little after kickoff. So hopefully the guys will have enough chance to get out there and get the field cleaned off. The real problem is the 20 mph winds that are set to come thru that open ended stadium.
It could be the great equalizer in Pittsburgh. Tough to throw, tougher to kick. Might make it come down to which team has the best running game and run stopping defense. :thumb:

It could be the great equalizer in Pittsburgh. Tough to throw, tougher to kick. Might make it come down to which team has the best running game adn run stopping defense. :thumb:

Sheesh, it's tough to kick already in that stadium, so I can't imagine how it'll be on sunday night. Atleats you guys have the night game though, so your crew should have the field cleaned up pretty good. As Sean Salisbury pointed out tonight though, it's not that hard to throw the ball in the snow, and I actually agree with that. Rain is the real bitch I think, but wind doesn't help anybody. :brickwall

Pennsylvania Gov. Rendell was on the Pittsburgh news tonight talking about being an Eagles' season ticket holder for 30 years and a fan for 40. They also paraphrased some other statements from him (and I didn't make this up):
The Steelers and Eagles will play each other in the Super Bowl and he believes the Steelers have the edge.:sssh:
I kid you not. That's what they said he said.

The heavy snow is supposed to be out of Pittsburg Sat. Night but its still going to be very cold at game time.

We all know how the Patriots play in the cold.

Pennsylvania Gov. Rendell was on the Pittsburgh news tonight talking about being an Eagles' season ticket holder for 30 years and a fan for 40. They also paraphrased some other statements from him (and I didn't make this up):
The Steelers and Eagles will play each other in the Super Bowl and he believes the Steelers have the edge.:sssh:
I kid you not. That's what they said he said.

Eagles fan, yet gives the edge to the Steelers? Says both Pennsylvania teams will make the Super Bowl? Is Gov. Rendell up for re-election this year?

Maybe he's just trying to not jinx the Eagles by making bold proclamations of their impending success!...

He actually said the same statement a few weeks ago, so it's nice to know that he's sticking buy his word. He's a co-host on our Eagles pre-game show and I do respect some of his opinions, but he's no real analyst or anything. He can take the Steelers all he wants, but I still don't think they'll make it.

By Skip Bayless

I was writing columns for the Chicago Tribune when I was sent to Miami to cover a Bills-Dolphins playoff game -- Doug Flutie vs. Dan Marino. But my sports editor insisted I go to the Orange Bowl the night before just to write about one player from a Chicago-area high school.

"This kid," my editor said, "will be the NFL's Michael Jordan."

That night against Steve Spurrier's Florida, Donovan McNabb showed some Jordanesque flashes. Flutie's feet, Marino's rifle -- sometimes it was tough to tell which was moving faster, McNabb or his passes.

Yet when Syracuse quickly fell behind 14-0, McNabb tried to be too much of a one-man show. He threw two interceptions and lost a fumble. His 72 yards rushing on 20 carries barely put a dent in the final score: Florida, 31-10.

I wasn't convinced I had seen the NFL's Michael Jordan ... until the following fall, when an NFL scout I know called me one Saturday and asked if I was watching the Virginia Tech game on TV. I wasn't.

"Turn it on," he said. "You've got to see this kid."

Here was a Michael who was pure Jordan. Here was Michael Vick.

And now the two potential NFL Jordans compete for a Super Bowl trip.

Yet the pressure is strictly on the "failed Jordan" -- on McNabb, whose favored Philadelphia Eagles are in danger of losing their fourth straight NFC championship game and their third in a row at home. Lose again and McNabb will be viewed as a one-man bridesmaid, a poor man's Buffalo Bills. But at least the Bills got to four Super Bowls before losing them all.

In a city that always fears the worst in big games, McNabb will feel an almost overpowering gravitational pull toward disaster. So how in the name of Terrell "The Savior" Owens am I predicting an easy Eagles victory? How can McNabb survive without his "better half" -- the injured Owens, who supposedly transformed McNabb into a great quarterback and the Eagles into a Super Bowl champion?

The Eagles will win because McNabb has been smart and mature enough to transform himself into more Magic Johnson than Michael Jordan. The Eagles will not miss Owens on Sunday because McNabb -- like Magic during his days running the Lakers' offense -- will make all his receivers believe they can make an Owens-like play. The Eagles will finally close an NFC deal because McNabb is now an accurate, disciplined pocket passer who can spread the ball to all his weapons and provide the kind of big-stage leadership with which Magic fueled his Lakers.


Donovan knows when to hold 'em, knows when to fold 'em, knows when to walk away, knows when to run.
The Eagles will advance to the Super Bowl because McNabb finally realized that trying to be Michael Jordan doesn't work in a violent 11-on-11 sport.

Vick will lose because he's still too caught up in being pro football's Jordan.

Vick will fall short Sunday because -- despite being the most exciting and dangerous breakaway runner since Barry Sanders -- he's playing the wrong position. Vick still doesn't throw the football much better than Jordan could hit a curve ball. This deep into the NFL playoffs, rock almost always beats scissors -- a fast, physical, well-coached defense overcomes a sensational scrambler who isn't sure how to pass.

McNabb will win because he'll make his Owens-less team better than Vick can make his. McNabb now uses his escape-ability and 240-pound strength to create better throwing opportunities. McNabb will play low-risk, mistake-free quarterback on what could be an ice-skating rink.

As one NFL coach told me this week: "Mentally, McNabb is where Steve Young was when he finally won a Super Bowl. He now runs only when the opportunity truly presents itself. McNabb is more in command of himself and his offense. He's a great leader."

I love McNabb's answer when he's asked what it would feel like to finally get to a Super Bowl: "Our goal isn't just to get to the Super Bowl."

McNabb finally will get there because this game won't be played on a hot, fast track inside Atlanta's Georgia Dome. Vick won't be quite as excited about running in severe cold with slippery footing. Yes, I know Vick's Falcons were the first team to win a playoff game at Lambeau Field. Yet that night in early 2003 was unseasonably warm and dry -- 31 degrees at kickoff. That night was more about the Packers' self-destruction. A punt was blocked for a touchdown, a fumbled punt set up an easy touchdown and Brett Favre threw two interceptions and lost a fumble.

Vick managed just 117 yards passing and 64 rushing, yet his Falcons won 27-7.

The Eagles will do to Vick what Tampa Bay consistently has: Attack him with lots of fierce, quick defenders who won't hang back and let Vick make the first move. The Bucs hound and pound Vick, rough him up and finally wear him out. He's only 6-feet and a little more than 200 pounds.

How Vick has avoided serious injury this season is nearly as miraculous as some of his breakaways. He routinely hurtles into insanely dangerous situations. When Jordan took a hard hit, he went to the free throw line. Vick routinely risks going to the hospital. Has a quarterback ever taken more punishment for a season? For sure, no quarterback has survived more high-speed collisions and X Games flips.

For now, Dennis Thurman understands. Thurman, who coaches Baltimore's defensive backs, has coached against both McNabb and Vick. Thurman, an All-American safety at USC and cornerback for the Dallas Cowboys, is as insightful about what makes a player tick as any coach I've known.

Thurman began with McNabb: "He has worked hard on his fundamentals because he wants to be known as a pocket passer. He's not a classic thrower like Warren Moon was, but his accuracy improved tremendously this year -- partly because T.O. gave him more confidence and partly because he's just so much more comfortable knowing how his offense can beat a defense.

"Right now, Vick just wants to be known as a runner. He knows that without his legs, he'd be just another quarterback. He knows he can single-handedly take over a game and carry an entire franchise on his back."

But: "Experience will teach him to slow down and take fewer chances with his body. We haven't come close to seeing the best of Michael Vick. But trust me: He already scares defensive coaches more than McNabb because you can call the perfect defense and he can go 80 yards right through it. That's why I give Atlanta a better-than-average chance at Philly. The Falcons can say: 'Two teams from our division have won NFC championship games here -- Tampa Bay and Carolina. We've got Michael Vick. Why not us?'"

I don't see it.

Atlanta often struggled to score this season. The Falcons ranked 30th in passing yards, 20th in total yards and 16th in scoring. Yes, they led the NFL in rushing because their "quarterback" ran for nearly 1,000 yards. But again and again, they relied on a surprisingly solid defense to keep them close until Vick made a play or two that no other human could.

That won't work on the road in the cold against a defense that allowed the NFL's second fewest points.

Vick may be slowed down by the weight of the league on his shoulders.
Vick's passer rating of 78.1 tied San Francisco's Tim Rattay for 20th. As one coach said: "They run a very simple two-back offense. When Vick gets in trouble, he always looks for (tight end Alge) Crumpler, and the Eagles will be laying for that."

Vick can throw hard -- sometimes too hard for a wide-open receiver to catch at close range -- but he often has to wind up before he cuts loose, and he can be as wild high or low as McNabb used to be. Vick does everything right-handed, except throw. When he demonstrated his right-handed passing for ESPN's Andrea Kremer this week, his mechanics and spirals looked much tighter.

Maybe he should try the other hand next season.

For Vick, this season will end Sunday in Philly. This week, too many easily-impressed Vick lovers have been misled by Atlanta's 327 home-dome rushing yards against a defense that couldn't have stopped Vick with tranquilizer darts. The Rams were to the Falcons what the Broncos were to the home-dome Colts: hype-building fodder. The Eagles will be to Vick what New England was to Peyton Manning: Kryptonite.

And Brian Westbrook will be to McNabb what Eagles fans mistakenly believed Owens would be in playoff games: trustworthy. Westbrook will be slightly more valuable than Owens because he's more versatile. He'll be to McNabb what James Worthy was to Magic.

This time, Magic Johnson beats Michael Jordan 24-10.

Nothing from Mr. Merrill Hoge yet? I'm praying that the Eagles win so this jackass can eat some crow on national tv.

I'd like to see him and Salisbury eat shit sandwiches for the rest of their lives.

When did Vick become such a crappy quarterback? So what if he's not Top 5 material, he's still a good quarterback. It certainly didn't take him long to supplant the much-heralded (and still playing) Chris Chandler.

His team's in the NFC title game, right?

The media built Vick up, and the media is tearing him back down. They've gotten it wrong both ways, IMO.

Eventually, I think Philly wins this game. But not necessarily because Vick's trying to be Michael Jordan.

Skip Bayless....hey, let's put him on a show with Woody Paige. Let's call it "Two Blabbering Idiots and a Bottle of Scotch."

Good article on McNabb and Vick, Sucka. I don't really see any comparison in the two. McNabb is much more poised than Vick is, and I don't think Vick can beat you with his arm yet, which is why he runs so damn much. McNabb will beat you with his arm, but can beat you with his feet if it comes down to it. Good luck to your Eagles, I'll be pulling for them. As for the other game, I will be pulling for the Steelers, but I think the Pats will win.

Amazingly I'm not as pumped up for this game as I have been over the last three years. I'm still very excited though, and I think once the game gets here I"ll be very nervous. All I want them to do is get ahead early, control the clock, and contain Vick. All those things should lead to a Philly trip to Jacksonville.

I just sat through ESPN's "1st and Ten" with Bayless and Paige, just for laughs.

Unless I'm losing my mind, Paige said, and I'm not kidding about this, he said Vick's QB rating was higher this year than McNabb's.

Oh, come on.

And then they showed the replay (twice) of Vick's game-tying run against Carolina, the one where his knees stay off the ground just long enough to cross the goal line. And Bayless, both times, goes all apeshit, saying "He's down! He's down!"

I rest my case. Make that TWO bottles of scotch.

I watch too much football-related television.

EAGLES!!! Ive been doing some checking, and the similarities between this year's Falcons and the 2001 Eagles are amazing:

Vick -- The line on him is "make him beat you from the pocket" --EXACTLY what they said about McNabb then. (Of course, now McNabb SLAUGHTERS you from the pocket!)

Alge Crumpler -- Vick's favorite target, Pro-Bowl Tight End. Who was the Pro Bowl NFC TE that year? Chad Lewis of the Eagles (McNabb's leading receiver that year)

Defense -- Falcons built on speed and getting to the QB, and depend on their defense to win the close ones...again, just like the Eagles

Blew out previous playoff opponent : KILLED St Louis, just as the Eagles did the Bears in 01

And most importantly, EAGLES lost on the road in the NFC championship that year.

So its gonna be a Pats/Eagles matchup in Jacksonville!!

Overall McNabb is a much better QB than Vick. Vick is still somewhat raw. Yes vick is the most athletic person in the NFL with Peppers right behind vick. The one thing i wish vick could do is pass a little better. I dont know why he cant pass well. I feel like his Wrs dont fight hard enough to get open. But times vick aint very accurate either. I am so pumped for the game tomarrow. It should be one heck of a game. Go Falcons!!!!!

Well the best thing I can say that work's in the Eagles favor is that Michael's QB rating as a pure passer this year, is like 52.3 or something like that. That's not including the running he does, because that's what bumps him up, but he's still not up there with Manning, McNabb and Pep. When talking strictly about passing, Mike was tied with Tim Rattay for last in the NFL in QB rating.

AND, Mike has only faced two defenses that we're in the top 10 this year. So those are two stats that I think really work for the Eagles this weekend.

Time to get back to shoveling. Later. :)

Well it's once again prediction time:

Eagles Vs Falcons-is the 4th time the charm for the Eagles or do the Falcons play spoilers once again and send the Phili faithful home crying. The game comes down to the Falcons run attack vs the Eagles pass attack and with the weather probably being the shits I personally favour the team with the better groung game and that's Atlanta. If the Falcolns find a way to get up early in this game and get the crowd out of the game it's going to be a uphill battle for Phili. Atlanta has nothing to lose coming into this game and teams with little pressure sometimes are the ones tha respond much better in pressure situations. I like Michael Vick to have a huge day and the Falcons to go to the Superbowl. Final score Atlanta 24 Eagles 20.

Patriots vs Steelers-should be another close game but the difference for the Patriots in this one is the presence of Corey Dillon. I doubt he'll have the monster game like he did last week against the Colts but as long as he gets 20-25 touches and is reasonably effective it will make things much easier for Tom Brady in the passing game. What buried the Patriots in the 1st game aganist Pittsburgh were the turnovers and the abadonment of the run game. You can't be one dimensional against a great defence like Pittsburgh.
As far s the Steelers game plan we all know it's predicated on the run but that shouldn't bother the Patriots. Bettis has never had huge games against New England but Pittsburgh will be persistent regardless on the ground. I expect Ben to have a much better outing this week than last week against the Jets but in the end it will come down to execution and the team that makes the fewest mistakes. It's only fair that the Pats knock off the team with the huge win streak much like the Steelers did earlier in the year. New England is on a mission and they know 3 Superbowls in 4 years means dynasty and their place in NFL history. I think they get the job done. Patriots 23 Steelers 16.

Mario: Great post man! I agree with most of your thoughts, but....I think the Eagles will prevail in a very tight game, I hope they do so Sucka doesn't have a break-down, and just because McNabb will find a way to win the game.
Also, do not rely on Rothlesberger to win it, the Steelers defense and running game will be enough for the most part IMO! I know that the Pats are on a mission, along with the Steelers, Falcons and Eagles!! That is why this weekend is up for grabs for the NFL Conference champions!
Weather???? These teams are prepared for the worse! If not, they lose!
I have to work during the Eagles/Falcons game, I will get updates from my lovely wife, but I will see the Steelers/Patriots game....Man, I hope the Eagles win for Sucka and my wallet! :eek:

After all of the debating, analyzing, and trash-talking, the Conference Championships are finally here!
Good luck to all who have a stake in this game whether it's your team or your cash. And may the game be decided on the field by the players. Should be good stuff.

Congrats, Sucka (and the rest of the Eagles fans) on seeing your team go to the Super Bowl - some of you maybe for the first time!

Congrats Sucka and all the other Eagles fans. Since the Jets are out of it, I hope you guys get to celebrate a Super Bowl win in a couple of weeks as well.

Congrats to the Eagles. Sucka that must be a huge load off.

ONE Team

ONE City

ONE Dream


See ya in Jacksonville :)
http://espn-att.starwave.com/media/nfl/2005/0123/photo/a_mcnabb2_frt.jpg

Congrats to the Eagles. Sucka that must be a huge load off.

That's the understatement of the year! This is the first time I've seen my Eagles in the Super Bowl, so it's a pretty special time right now. And I might add that they have as good as shot as Pittsburgh or NE at winning the whole thing. I don't think we'll be favored, but we shouldn't be underdogs by much. I think we play better anyways when we're not favored.

By the way, this guy is a fucking animal!!!!!
http://citypaper.net/vet/012303/big/dawkins_exit.jpg

You can breathe now Sucka!!!
To all Eagles fans, congratulations and good luck in the Super Bowl.

Who's that broad in the playoffs commercials?

The Steelers are on the verge of choking here, I called an Eagles/Pats Bowl by the way, so I'm not suprised here.

I'm off to have a drink, but before I go I'll tell you why I thought the Steelers would lose IMHO.

This week I heard something said by Ben that I thought was a little troubling if I were a Steelers fan. He repeated that same bullshit that the national media said about him playing "like a rookie" last weekend against the Jets. The media started that crap, and everybody bought it after the Steelers barely got by the Jets. When I heard Ben repeat that he couldn't play like a rookie, that's exactly when I knew they would lose. Despite the fact that I just knew the Pats were better anyway. I just think that once Ben had that in his head, that one time he'd make a mistake early in the game, that playing like a rookie shit would enter his head again. I don't think he played like a rookie at all last week. Heck, I've seen Tom Brady play worse games then Ben did last weekend and Tom is no rookie. So once Ben got that in his head, I just thought, it's over. And it is. I don't see the Steelers coming back in the second half. Better luck next year.

IED and myself predicted it, and after two more quarters it should be official.

Patriots vs Eagles

I can't wait. :)

From a LIONS fan, go get em Philly.
Sucka, hope the Eagle give an excuse to drink for a week, sleep for a day and party for the year ahead. You deserve it mate. Now, stop reading this and go get a drink!

I want Philly to win it all, too. It's about damn time you guys made it in, and thanks for doing it at the expense of the Falcons. As a Panthers fan, that makes it that much sweeter ;) :D

I thought that "catch" looked to good to be true...

That's the understatement of the year! This is the first time I've seen my Eagles in the Super Bowl, so it's a pretty special time right now. And I might add that they have as good as shot as Pittsburgh or NE at winning the whole thing. I don't think we'll be favored, but we shouldn't be underdogs by much. I think we play better anyways when we're not favored.

By the way, this guy is a fucking animal!!!!!
http://citypaper.net/vet/012303/big/dawkins_exit.jpg

ah,... did some one actually say the EAGLES,..the team from PHILADELPHIA,.. are going... to..the...Holy shit, I-can't- actually-believe-it, ...to the PROMISED Land,..to the BIG game,..to the BIG DANCE, the only-place-where-you-have-a-chance, ..to place your hands upon that trophy called LOMBARDI,..the one in Jacksonville,...the...the...the...the..the SUPER BOWL?!!!!!!! :drunk: :drunk: :drunk: :wtf:

Bring forth the DEFENDING Super Bowl Champs, the PATRIOTS, the ones from new england....
.......

"Say hello to my little friend!!!!"--Pacino, "ScarFace"

My little friend...Brian Dawkins...Jeremiah Trotter...Jevon "the Freak" Kearse..and the rest of our Defense.....for they wield EXCALIBUR!

...And they are swingin for You!

oh, and Donovan and Co. will be there as well.
And T.O.

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

IED and myself predicted it, and after two more quarters it should be official.

Patriots vs Eagles

I can't wait. :)

I would've predicted it to, if I was given to making predictions. But I don't do that when my teams are involved!

Even though some of the Steelers fans showed some arrogance this year, I'll still extend them a congratulations on a great season. Hope that streak-breaker game on Halloween is enough to keep you warm for the rest of the winter!

They showed alot of arrogance Billy, and that's why I'm not sorry to see the Steelers fall. I said it during the preseason and the regular season, the Colts and Steelers had to show me they could win in the playoffs. I already knew the Patriots could win in the playoffs, and I knew the Eagles could too, with the exception of that one game. We all know how they did today in that one game. With the Colts and Steelers, I just don't think you become a favorite to win it all in just one year, when teams like the Patriots and Eagles have been doing it for a few years now. That's why when guys around here were picking the Vikings and the Falcons, I was just baffled.

The two best franchises the last few years have been the Eagles and Pats as far as consitency goes, and now they're FINALLY going to meet in the big game. It should be a good one, and you can expect this guy to be there playing.

http://media.mnginteractive.com/media/paper200/terrell031704.jpg

First of all, congratulations to the Eagles and the Patriots.

So what the hell does fan arrogance have to do with the team? I think the Steelers PLAYERS did a good job staying grounded. They didn't talk shit all year. They've given credit where credit is due. That said, I can't stand the fact that the Pats were wearing their championship hats with a minute or so to go in the game. I hate that they were mocking the fans and the Terrible Towel. I think that showed poor sportsmanship and I hope the Patriots get crushed in the Super Bowl.

Sure, I'm a little bitter. We handed them the AFC Championship game... again. But hey, Ben's a rookie and the Steelers had a great year. We'll see where we end up next year at this time.

Oh yeah, go Eagles!

Hmmm....Big Ben's first loss...will he be jinxed or will he achieve it all next year? I think there was way too much emphasis on BEN. The Steelers played today...the media says BEN played. WTF? :irked:
Congratulations to the Eagles and Patriots fans today...get ready for a great Super Bowl!

Hmmm....Big Ben's first loss...will he be jinxed or will he achieve it all next year? I think there was way too much emphasis on BEN. The Steelers played today...the media says BEN played. WTF? :irked:
Congratulations to the Eagles and Patriots fans today...get ready for a great Super Bowl!
I hate to place blame but it was also Ben that lost it in my opinion. Take away the INT for a touchdown and it was only a 7 point game. Take into consideration that we may have come away with points on that drive and it may have been a different game altogether. I would've come out for the 3rd quarter with Tommy. He just didn't have it. Although it was arguably the best rookie season by a quarterback ever. Oh well, ya can't win 'em all. It was a good run in a season where nobody expected a lot. I have a feeling that Plaxico and Kendrell Bell will be gone next year, but if we can hold on to a lot of the other guys, I'm thinking we've got a good shot at Super Bowl XL.

Blame it on Ben all you want, but I thought that Cowher's game plan sucked. Ben hasn't played well for a few weeks now, so it wasn't like this was a suprise. You had to know that the Pats were going to take away the run and make Ben beat them, so you have to have a back up plan. Cowher didn't...they lost.

By the way, Belichick is now 14-0 against QB's that he's seen for the second time. ESPN brought that up last night, and I got a good smile outta that.

All I can say is , thank god the Eagles won and spared us all the largest mass suicide scene since Jonestown !

The county coroner can rest easy !

Blame it on Ben all you want, but I thought that Cowher's game plan sucked. Ben hasn't played well for a few weeks now, so it wasn't like this was a suprise. You had to know that the Pats were going to take away the run and make Ben beat them, so you have to have a back up plan. Cowher didn't...they lost.

By the way, Belichick is now 14-0 against QB's that he's seen for the second time. ESPN brought that up last night, and I got a good smile outta that.
We'll probably have to agree to disagree on this and while I think it's Ben's fault, I can't really blame the guy after the season he had. But just check the game stats:
Rushing: NE 126 PIT 163
Passing: NE 196 PIT 225
Comp/Att: NE 14-21 PIT 14-24
We beat them in most statistical categories including time of possession and total first downs. It all comes down to turnovers. Bettis' fumble didn't matter much since he didn't get the first down anyway on that 4th and 1.
The 3 interceptions made the difference as far as I'm concerned. Plus a couple key penalties that kept the Pats' drive alive. Take those picks away and the game would have been completely different. I don't think it was Cowher's game plan at all. The running game wasn't bad at all. If anything he's at fault for putting too much faith in Roethlisberger. He has a tendency to do that... see also Kordell Stewart.
Good luck to your Eagles in the Super Bowl! I'd love to see Brady at 7-1.

But that's exactly my point. You can have faith in Ben, but not that much faith because he's only a rookie. You got to know that Belichick wants you to pass the ball and make Ben beat his defense. When you've got all the skill that the Steelers have on offense, you really have to put it in the other guy's hands to win the game. You watch how the Pats run their offense and it's little dink and doinks, and the next thing you know they knock you out with a long ball. That's how you run an offense. Not rely on a rookie to throw deep patterns which eventually got picked off.

I totally agree, Cowher's game plan sucked. The Steelers were way too predictable - 1st down run up the middle, 2nd down run up the middle and then stuck on 3rd and long with a rookie QB? Cowher didn't do Ben any favors by putting him in this position all game long. Cowher didn't put his players in the position to win - Belichick always does.

Indianapolis (top rated offense) - Pats hold them to 3 points
Pittsburgh (top rated defense) - Pats put up 41 points

This is the greatest team in NFL history - I suggest you grab a cold one Super Bowl Sunday, sit back and enjoy!

I totally agree, Cowher's game plan sucked. The Steelers were way too predictable - 1st down run up the middle, 2nd down run up the middle and then stuck on 3rd and long with a rookie QB? Cowher didn't do Ben any favors by putting him in this position all game long. Cowher didn't put his players in the position to win - Belichick always does.

Indianapolis (top rated offense) - Pats hold them to 3 points
Pittsburgh (top rated defense) - Pats put up 41 points

This is the greatest team in NFL history - I suggest you grab a cold one Super Bowl Sunday, sit back and enjoy!

Agreed, because this is going to be one hell of a game!

By the way, my playoff MVP goes to Troy Brown. That guy is amazing, and deserves some sort of credit for what he's done for the team this year.

yeah, hi..this thread has been so nice and congenial...i guess none of the trashtalking has gotten here yet....


Super Bowl ===EAGLES===2004-2005===CHAMPIONS

I SPENT 8 GLORIOUS, hard-fought yrs as a season ticket holder back in the war zone..the vet and the 700 level. it took me 6 yrs to wrestle the eagles cheer responsibilities(privelege) for my entire section, but it was worth it..
Now, after 24 yrs, we are going back.
24 years!!!!

I dont care how good the Pats are or brady or bellicheck...and they are...but so are we.
the Eagles have yet to play their best game in the playoffs...by that, i mean up to the ir full potential.
They've played great football and won each game, but, Just like any of the contestants, they need their best game for last..and if they do, i will predict a victory!!

Let's just say it again, because it sounds and feels so good:

THE EAGLES ARE GOING TO THE SUPERBOWL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:)

I totally agree, Cowher's game plan sucked. The Steelers were way too predictable - 1st down run up the middle, 2nd down run up the middle and then stuck on 3rd and long with a rookie QB? Cowher didn't do Ben any favors by putting him in this position all game long. Cowher didn't put his players in the position to win - Belichick always does.

Indianapolis (top rated offense) - Pats hold them to 3 points
Pittsburgh (top rated defense) - Pats put up 41 points

This is the greatest team in NFL history - I suggest you grab a cold one Super Bowl Sunday, sit back and enjoy!
I don't think Cowher's game plan was any different than the plans he used to win 16 games. If you're winning, you stick to your guns. The stats tell the tale. You can't turn the ball over 4 times and win. End of story. The Pats are good but not unbeatable. And I definitely don't think they're the best team in history. I guess I'm biased though since we won 4 Super Bowls in the 70's. Maybe I'm wearing the rose-colored glasses. :cool:
I hope the Pats lose just because they've made the Steelers' lives miserable but I don't think they will.
Sorry guys, I'm being a bit of a sore loser but I can't help it. I really thought we had a good shot to win it all. I'll try to let it go now.
You heard it here first: The Steelers will win the Super Bowl in the next 2 years.
Does anybody else think it's uncool that they mocked the fans and that they had the championship hats on before the game was over?

I don't think it was anything wrong with them wearing the hats before the game was over. Why should the care what Pittsburgh fans think anyways. Looking at the stands, alot of people had gone home already, so it didn't matter. They should have put the hats on at halftime, because the game was over then.

I agree that you don't change your game plan, but if the situation arises, you have to be able to think on your toes. Cowher has not done that in three AFC Championship games at home now. It's not like this is anything new. Andy Reid had to make the same adjustments because he learned from his loses in the Championship game. You learn from your mistakes in the NFL, and after that first pick was thrown, I think you have to switch up your game plan a bit. Getting help from your defense is also a plus.

ONE Team

ONE City

ONE Dream


See ya in Jacksonville :)
http://espn-att.starwave.com/media/nfl/2005/0123/photo/a_mcnabb2_frt.jpg

FLY EAGLES FLY...ON TO VICTORYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY ! congrats Eagles from Wilmington A.K.A. Philly"s litte brother city.

prediction: there will be riots in either city night of sb.maybe not new england.but philly for sure.

I doubt it.

I don't think Cowher's game plan was any different than the plans he used to win 16 games. If you're winning, you stick to your guns. The stats tell the tale. You can't turn the ball over 4 times and win. End of story. The Pats are good but not unbeatable. And I definitely don't think they're the best team in history. I guess I'm biased though since we won 4 Super Bowls in the 70's. Maybe I'm wearing the rose-colored glasses. :cool:
I hope the Pats lose just because they've made the Steelers' lives miserable but I don't think they will.
Sorry guys, I'm being a bit of a sore loser but I can't help it. I really thought we had a good shot to win it all. I'll try to let it go now.
You heard it here first: The Steelers will win the Super Bowl in the next 2 years.
Does anybody else think it's uncool that they mocked the fans and that they had the championship hats on before the game was over?

You're right Cowher had the same game plan he used all year and Belichick knew it, so he gameplanned around stopping the run and force Ben to beat throw on third and long situations. Great teams make adjustments during the game based on the situation and what's working for them. The Pats are versatile and can play any kind of game you want to play and there was no better example than the last two games vs two very different teams in Indy & Pittsburgh.

Well, I'm not going to argue the Steelers any more because nobody's going to change their mind.
As far as mocking the fans and putting the hats on prematurely, I do have a problem with that. Everybody should. When players start interacting negatively with fans, sooner or later you end up with a situation like the Pacers/Pistons game. Or like the hockey games when players go into the stands. The players in any sport need to separate themselves from the fans. If you want to interact in a positive way because it's your home turf then fine. But why stir up trouble with people who've probably had too much to drink and risk a problem? Fans will be fans. The players are the professionals.
As far as the hats go, those are what you put on when the clock is all zeros. That's when you're officially the winner. I'm sure you're aware of the California/Stanford game in 1982 where California ran a kick-off back through the Stanford marching band for the win. Sure, there was almost no chance of a Steeler comeback but almost isn't 0%. They should be good sports and not rub it in fans' faces. After a week of each team complimenting the other, I thought that was uncalled for.

So you would have had a problem with the Steelers had they been in control of the game, and put their championship hats on prematurely?

really, who cares about the steelers or the patriots putting on hats??
let 'em enjoy it, they earned it.
bottom line in that game was turnovers and tom brady. he is unreal.

now, on to the important news...

...THE EAGLES ARE IN THE SUPER BOWL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One guy I do feel for is Duce Staley. That guy was one of my favorite Eagles here, and he's been in the championship game for four consecutive years now. He's lost all of them. That sucks man.

yeah, i feel for the duce as well...he was/is a winner and a player!!
that man leaves it all on the field for his team!!
but he should know, Cowher cannot get it done..and for a damn good reason..his eye for talent on offense, as far as the qb goes, was never any good. he got Ben this yr as a rookie..and we'll see how he is next yr, but this is the first legitimate QB they've had since bradshaw!!

yeah, i feel for the duce as well...he was/is a winner and a player!!
that man leaves it all on the field for his team!!
but he should know, Cowher cannot get it done..and for a damn good reason..his eye for talent on offense, as far as the qb goes, was never any good. he got Ben this yr as a rookie..and we'll see how he is next yr, but this is the first legitimate QB they've had since bradshaw!!
Yeah, but just like in Philly, he's leaving body parts on the field for his team. Some guys just can't stay healthy and he seems to be one of them. It's the same with Kendrell Bell. I am glad we found a quarterback. The present is bleak but the future is bright.

I think the Steelers just better hope that Ben doesn't fall into that "sophomore jinx" crap that alot of second year players do. The media will be all over that shit, as usual. I think he'll be fine though.

Chad Lewis done for the year. (http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/default.jsp)

Tight end Chad Lewis, one of the many heroes in Sunday's conference title game win, will be sidelined for the Super Bowl because of a Lis Franc sprain of his foot. Lewis, who sustained the injury on his fourth-quarter touchdown catch, will undergo surgery this week.

Congrats and good luck to ya Sucka. It'll be tough for me to root against McNabb, but i'll be pulling for the Patriots. A close game would be nice.

Oops! I didn't see the Super Bowl thread.

Chad Lewis done for the year. (http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/default.jsp)



Congrats and good luck to ya Sucka. It'll be tough for me to root against McNabb, but i'll be pulling for the Patriots. A close game would be nice.

Oops! I didn't see the Super Bowl thread.

Thanks dude, it's tough for me to root against McNabb too, so I don't! :)

Said to see Chad go, but L.J. Smith will step up in his place, and that offense will keep on clicking.

the injuries are just amazing!!
its freaky really.

but to me, its God saying, "if you want it bad enough, you can get it..but youy will all have to want it more on the field than the other team"

and so i believe!!

Thanks dude, it's tough for me to root against McNabb too, so I don't! :)

Said to see Chad go, but L.J. Smith will step up in his place, and that offense will keep on clicking.

Being a big 'Cuse fan, it will be tough indeed. I want to see Brady cement his place in history though, as well as stuff it down the throat of those that think he's just an average QB despite all he has done.

I will only say this once in the next few weeks out of respect for the birds and for Brady.
it is my opinion that he is the 2nd coming of Montana and just may very well end up w/ more rings than joe or terry..and be the best of all..well, behind Elway...it all remains to be seen..he is the x factor for NE and the main reason for their success.

So you would have had a problem with the Steelers had they been in control of the game, and put their championship hats on prematurely?
Yeah, I'd have had a problem with that. Of course, I'm not a fan of helping an opponent up when you knock him down either so I'm not a big advocate of good sportsmanship in that respect. I think it's fine to be a hardass on the field but don't let it spill over onto the sidelines.
But anyway, the Pats won and the Eagles won and there's no point for me to rain on anyone's parade. Time to move on to the Super Bowl!

I agree - clock should be at "00:00" before any celebrating begins.

I don't agree. The fact that these guys are still excited about going to the Super Bowl after having been there time and time again, that really tells me alot about the character of that football team. Them putting on those hats just showed me that they were proud of what they did, and were out to proove that they were the best team in the AFC. You had all the Ben talk, Peyton this and that, the Chargers stuff, but nobody ever really talked about the Pats going to the Bowl. In fact many ESPN guys picked the Pats to get knocked off before the playoffs began, so I'm not upset with the excitment the Pats showed last night. It doesn't appear the players cared, and they're the guy's that matter in the end anyways.

What I loved seeing was Corey Dillon and Joey Porter shake hands after the game. That's the stuff that should be pointed out. Not them wearing their championship hats while the game was winding down. It's not like they're the first team to do that. Dillon and Porter basically went at eachother the whole game in footballs equivalent of a street fight. And in the end these guys looked eachother in the eye and as men they shook hands. That's what we should be talking about.

That's what I love about playoff hockey. The guys line up at the end and shake hands with everybody... except for a few a-holes. Football always seems to be chaos at the end and you only shake a few hands. It is cool that there were no hard feelings. It's a business after all.

I think if the game is in hand i have no problem with an early celebration. Was a long hard battle, and as Sucka said, they we're wrote off for good. First against the Colts, then the Steelers. I also don't see a problem with them waiving their own "terrible towel". Steeler fans shouldn't be bitter, they should lobby for Cowher's head. He has proven time and again he can't adjust in the playoffs. They should have been eliminated against the Jets.

Was a long hard battle, and as Sucka said, they we're wrote off for good. First against the Colts, then the Steelers.

Who wrote them off against the Steelers? Frankly, I was quite confident that NE would beat Pitt handily, and I'm fairly sure that they were also the favorites for that game.

Yea they were the favorites, but before the playoffs started, many "experts" had written them off. Certianly alot of people thought the Colts were going to go up there and finally beat those guys. That didn't work out that way, and with the way the Pats handled the Colts, that's what made them the favorites in the Steelers game.

Who wrote them off against the Steelers? Frankly, I was quite confident that NE would beat Pitt handily, and I'm fairly sure that they were also the favorites for that game.

Most the so called "experts". I knew better though, as i'm sure a lot of others did, such as yourself. They were favorites according to the line, yes, but many didn't think they could go into Pittsbugh and win.

I don't agree. The fact that these guys are still excited about going to the Super Bowl after having been there time and time again, that really tells me alot about the character of that football team. Them putting on those hats just showed me that they were proud of what they did, and were out to proove that they were the best team in the AFC. You had all the Ben talk, Peyton this and that, the Chargers stuff, but nobody ever really talked about the Pats going to the Bowl. In fact many ESPN guys picked the Pats to get knocked off before the playoffs began, so I'm not upset with the excitment the Pats showed last night. It doesn't appear the players cared, and they're the guy's that matter in the end anyways.

What I loved seeing was Corey Dillon and Joey Porter shake hands after the game. That's the stuff that should be pointed out. Not them wearing their championship hats while the game was winding down. It's not like they're the first team to do that. Dillon and Porter basically went at eachother the whole game in footballs equivalent of a street fight. And in the end these guys looked eachother in the eye and as men they shook hands. That's what we should be talking about.

Well said! There was also a nice shot of Belichick & Bettis after the game. Belichick was on sports radio here in Boston today and had nothing but great things to say about how the Steelers played and you could tell he genuinely respects them. The players on the Patriots were obviously pumped after a big win in the AFC championship game in a very hostile environment. Wearing the hats in the final minute was certainly no slight on the Steelers.
Was I the only one taken aback by Cowher's comments about Ben after the game - seemed like he threw him under the bus (no pun intended).

Well said! There was also a nice shot of Belichick & Bettis after the game. Belichick was on sports radio here in Boston today and had nothing but great things to say about how the Steelers played and you could tell he genuinely respects them. The players on the Patriots were obviously pumped after a big win in the AFC championship game in a very hostile environment. Wearing the hats in the final minute was certainly no slight on the Steelers.
I was impressed all week at how both teams had nothing but nice things to say about each other.

Was I the only one taken aback by Cowher's comments about Ben after the game - seemed like he threw him under the bus (no pun intended).
I was a little bit surprised as well. Especially since he said there wasn't going to be any finger pointing. Although Ben played the rookie card in his comments: "They beat the best QB in the league in Manning and now they beat the rookie." I paraphrased a little but you get the idea.
Did anyone see Hines Ward crying for Bettis? It was pretty touching. I can't think of anyone that plays harder than Ward. He wanted them to win this one for the Bus. He did his part though with 105 yards and a TD. Between Hines and Jerome they are two of the better guys in the league both on and off the field.

Well the Superbowl is set and I'm looking forward to it. Man I started to sweat it out big time with the Steelers driving to get within 7 in the 4th quarter but a huge stand at the goal line and forcing the Steelers into a field goal was a big turning point. I've said it earlier but the Patriots are on a mission and as good as the Eagles are I can't see them knocking off the champs. The Patriots know what's at stake and a place in football immortality waits for them if they can win 3 titles in 4 years. If they can find a way by a good Eagles team they'll have earned the title this year knocking off the 2 biggest contenders in the AFC in Pittsburgh and Indi and then taking care of the best team in the NFC. Bring on the Superbowl.

P.S-the whole putting on the champioship hats thing is being blown out of proportion and I don't think the Steeler fans or players should take it the wrong way. Is their a team in the NFL that's more professional and gracious of the opponents they play then the Patriots? They always show a great deal of class and respect. B.B wouldn't have it any other way.

All right already! LOL. That was my complaint about the hats. I haven't heard it anywhere else so I'm probably the only one saying anything. I'm not going to change my mind but I do agree that, generally speaking, the Patriots conduct themselves very professionally. I didn't mean to give anybody fits with my comment. :D

Well I cleared $650 on Championship game bets...helps out after losing about that much the week before on the Colts and Vikings. Heck, the wagers on the Colts were on teasers too!