A little early in the week, but I had two pressing questions that I am not sure made sense in the Wildcard thread

1) Anyone else tired of hearing about Ed Reed's "tragedy"? Maybe I am a cold person, but enough. A tragedy would have been if Reed's brother was in Tucson. Running from the cops and jumping into the river? Sounds more like stupidity than tragedy.

2) I am setting the over/under on this thread at 9 pages. With DT boxed, I have to take the under-- we'll be missing the 3+ pages of Patriots play-by-play without him. How will I ever know what's happening in that game?

Sorry for the OT - but how long is DT boxed for?

From the offending thread-

Some time away from FOFC will be good for you.

Alrighty then. I hadn't read this far when I did the suspension. Upping the time...

So...no idea except longer than usual?

Boxed until 1/22

A little early in the week, but I had two pressing questions that I am not sure made sense in the Wildcard thread

1) Anyone else tired of hearing about Ed Reed's "tragedy"? Maybe I am a cold person, but enough. A tragedy would have been if Reed's brother was in Tucson. Running from the cops and jumping into the river? Sounds more like stupidity than tragedy.


Yeah, something bad happens to you while running from the cops it is hard to feel much sympathy.

Maybe Reed is so affected by this tragedy that he won't play in the game?

Has there been a lot of coverage other than the gambler's info that he has not been at practice so far this week? I have not heard anything but that.

I think there are four as ideal of matchups as you can find. Pats/Jets and Steelers/Ravens are both heated rivalries. Falcons/Packers is the sexy big game for the NFC. Seahawks/Bears is a good matchup for Seattle to pull off another win.

https://s-hphotos-ash1.fbcdn.net/hs786.ash1/167609_1816233889720_1356290776_2016184_1405983_n.jpg

I stole this off of someone's FB page. lol

Caught this over at SI.com. Great story, something you typically wouldn't hear about.

Tyson Clabo is Atlanta Falcons' family man - Jim Trotter - SI.com (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/jim_trotter/01/11/tyson-clabo-falcons/index.html)

I wouldn't expect sympathy for Reed's brother, but anybody with a family member that has had problems would know that the family is profoundly affected by something like the loss of a loved one, even if the loss is due to their own idiocy.

I don't mind the Jets' trash-talking, it's something you don't see much anymore and sports would be a lot more fun if every team hated each others' guts. But the Jets really are out on an island with this stuff. It's kind of strange. If coaches thought this helped you win I'd think we'd see more than one team doing it.

Cromartie 'hates' Brady, uses other four-letter words - Extra Points - Boston.com (http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/extra_points/2011/01/cromartie_hates.html?p1=Upbox_links)

On Monday, Jets' coach Rex Ryan claimed Sunday's game between his team and the Patriots was personal between him and Bill Belichick.

But Jets corner Antonio Cromartie has made things really personal between him and Tom Brady.

The former Charger, in his first season with New York, went on an obscenity-laced tirade about Brady to the New York Daily News. Writer Gary Myers talked with Cromartie about Rex Ryan's comment this week that Brady "points" when he scores, apparently to taunt opponents.

"We see that a lot. He does it a lot," Cromartie said. "That's the kind of guy he is. We really don't give a damn, to tell you the truth."
Okay, what kind of guy is Brady?

"An ass----.

"---- him."


Cromartie's dislike of Brady dates back to his days in San Diego, as it is for his current/former teammate LaDainian Tomlinson; Cromartie was a rookie in 2006 when the Chargers blew a 21-13 fourth-quarter lead at home in the AFC Divisional round and the Pats went on to a 24-21 win. That was the infamous game where Tomlinson said the Pats lack class and that maybe it comes from their coach, while reminding everyone that he is a classy guy.

As is Cromartie.

"I hate them," Cromartie said. "I don't care. I hate them."
Brady or the Patriots?

"Both," he said.

"Everything is personal with me and the Patriots and what they did to us," Cromartie said. "So, I really don't care. I don't have too much to say about them. I'm just ready to play ball on Sunday."

Is this a bad time to bring up the fact that Cromartie has fathered nine children by eight different women and that the Jets had to front him $500,000 in salary this year so he could pay back child support?

They all hate him because he talks on the field and not in the week prior. Makes sense to me.

Is this a bad time to bring up the fact that Cromartie has fathered nine children by eight different women and that the Jets had to front him $500,000 in salary this year so he could pay back child support?

Not really sure what one has to do with the other but I did enjoy it when he struggled to remember all their names on Hard Knocks.

I wouldn't expect sympathy for Reed's brother, but anybody with a family member that has had problems would know that the family is profoundly affected by something like the loss of a loved one, even if the loss is due to their own idiocy.

Obviously, my point is more along the lines of the announcers talking about it during the game. I had no idea what the story was until I googled it. I had assumed it was a car accident or boat trip or something.

Not really sure what one has to do with the other but I did enjoy it when he struggled to remember all their names on Hard Knocks.

That one women of the 8 who has 2 of the kids must feel all superior to the rest.

Wonder if they're twins?

My guesses:

Seahawks: 3
Bears: 17

Bears offense has some trouble early on, but the defense keeps Seattle smothered for 60 minutes.

Packers: 20
Falcons: 31

The Falcons have the rare advantage of being a #1 seed playing at home with an extra week's rest against an injury depleted opponent that still gets to play the "no one respects us" card.

Ravens: 17
Steelers: 14

Whatever anyone else predicts, everyone agrees that this will be a close game. Which, of course, means that it will be a 30+ point blowout. In any event, I am still going to predict a close game. The Steelers' O-line scares me a touch more than Joe Flacco does.

Jets: 24
Pats: 20

No one on earth has spent more time thinking about the Patriots' offense than Rex Ryan. I am predicting that it pays off.

Only way the Jets win is if the Pats can't stop them from running it down their throat(legitimate concern lately) or Sanchez surprises everyone.

Packers: 20
Falcons: 31

The Falcons have the rare advantage of being a #1 seed playing at home with an extra week's rest against an injury depleted opponent that still gets to play the "no one respects us" card.


I don't see the Falcons throwing up a 31 spot vs the Packers unless it is off turnovers. Going to be more like the first meeting.. 20-17.

"Everything is personal with me and the Patriots and what they did to us," Cromartie said. "So, I really don't care. I don't have too much to say about them. I'm just ready to play ball on Sunday."




Can someone help refresh my memory on what happened in that San Diego vs New England game?

I remember the Pats came from behind to win (or more like the Chargers just choked big time), but was there dirty play or something that happened? I remember the local sports stations around here spent the next two weeks with callers ripping on Tomlinson afterward but I'm not a Patriots fan, so just can't remember what the bad blood was over.

Can someone help refresh my memory on what happened in that San Diego vs New England game?

I remember the Pats came from behind to win (or more like the Chargers just choked big time), but was there dirty play or something that happened? I remember the local sports stations around here spent the next two weeks with callers ripping on Tomlinson afterward but I'm not a Patriots fan, so just can't remember what the bad blood was over.

The only thing I remember was the Patriots mimiced Merriman's sack dance and LT went nuts at the end of the same for some reason.

I think it has more to do with the Chargers being a bunch of pussies than anything else.

LT turned heel after that game.

Never was able to get a grasp on LT. For years everyone said he was just this real humble guy who went out and played. But it seemed later he became real whiney and even a bit of a showboater.

"I've been called worse," Brady said when informed that Cromartie called him an [expletive].

They should film a sequel to Inglourious Basterds starring Cromartie and his 8 kids.

Never was able to get a grasp on LT. For years everyone said he was just this real humble guy who went out and played. But it seemed later he became real whiney and even a bit of a showboater.

It's the John Stockton effect. Everyone thought he was this good working player, they finally get national TV exposure during the finals and everyone realizes what a bitchy cheap shot artist him and the Mailman were.

Antonio Cromartie should've remembered what happened to Anthony Smith (then with the Steelers) when he started talking smack in 07... Brady torched him for several big plays, and he's been a career reserve ever since.

Do I think Brady's going to try to squeeze it in to the guy Cromartie's covering? No... but I think Cromartie better be at his best, or he's going to have a long game...

Cromartie gets torched often enough because Revis smothers his guys, I'd think he wouldn't want to piss off the guy that put up shitloads of yards on them the last time they met.

Personally I'd rather see the field implode as soon as both teams step on it this week. I hate both those fucking teams.

Cromartie is now questionable with a sprained mandible. Seems he caught his jaw on his anus when talking all that shit. :D

Only way the Jets win is if the Pats forget to show up at the stadium.

Fixed...

Seems like talk about any of the other games is really limited.

I just know if the Jets are the one to end the Pats season you will find me hanging from a tree.

At the end of the season I said the Pats could lose the first game and I would still be very happy with the season, as long as they don't get rolled like last year.

I need to amend that. I can't have them losing to the god forsaken tragedy that is the Jets.

I just know if the Jets are the one to end the Pats season you will find me hanging from a tree.

At the end of the season I said the Pats could lose the first game and I would still be very happy with the season, as long as they don't get rolled like last year.

I need to amend that. I can't have them losing to the god forsaken tragedy that is the Jets.

PING TreeInNewEngland

Antonio Cromartie should've remembered what happened to Anthony Smith (then with the Steelers) when he started talking smack in 07... Brady torched him for several big plays, and he's been a career reserve ever since.

Do I think Brady's going to try to squeeze it in to the guy Cromartie's covering? No... but I think Cromartie better be at his best, or he's going to have a long game...

Anthony Smith WAS a career reserve in Pittsburgh projected into the starting lineup due to injuries that game. He has started in Green Bay and Jacksonville after that stint.

Also, his "smack" was rather weak and selectively quoted by the media. He isn't the smartest guy and they cornered him and he took the bait.

I disagree with smack talk, though. It does little to nothing to affect the outcome and makes you look ridiculous if you end up losing but still a jackass if you win. Kind of like Tom Brady before Super Bowl XLII..."17 points...hahaha" and they ended up scoring 14 in a loss.

See link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqErnhihQFQ because I am too mentally deficient to imbed video.

Perhaps the most awesome media session by a player ever (from http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/01/13/wes-welker-likes-his-foot-metaphors/):

----------------

Wes Welker likes his “foot” metaphors
Posted by Gregg Rosenthal on January 13, 2011, 3:23 PM EST

Just when you think the chatter between the Patriots and Jets couldn’t get sillier, Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker stepped to the podium Thursday as if dared to see how many “foot” references he could cram in to a single media session. Behold:

1. On this week of preparation: “Everybody’s putting their best foot forward.”

2. On young players in the playoffs: “You can’t just stick your toe in the water. You gotta jump right in.”

3. On playing this year as opposed to last year: “It’s definitely different. You know, you’ve got your foot up in the air trying to get the swelling to go down. Definitely excited about the opportunity to get out there and have some fun.”

4. On the opportunity this week: “These are the games you play for. What you spend all year getting ready for and you just want to put your best foot forward.”

5. On Revis: “He’s got great feet.”

6. On Revis again: “He’s very patient, has good feet.”

7. On Deion Branch: “He runs some really good routes out there . . . He’s another guy with great feet and can really move around.”

8. On practice: “You want to make sure you’re putting your best foot forward out there and making it happen.”

9. More on practice: “Us going out there and being good little foot soliders and making sure we’re going out there and doing everything coach asks us to do.”

10. On seeing new things in the playoffs: “You definitely have to be on your and make sure you’re ready to go.”

Genius. Since this is clearly the most important post I’ll ever write at PFT, let’s analyze further.

Welker is deadpan as ever with his delivery, so there’s no way he can really be called out for it. A few clues indicate that it’s not just a coincidence. Jackie McMullen of ESPNBoston.com wrote a great feature on Welker. Part of it is about what a huge prankster he is.

“Put Wes, Matt [Cassel] and Larry Izzo in a room, and they are ‘The Three Stooges,’” Tom Brady said.

Welker got his first “foot” reference in on his first question and rarely let up in his ten minutes of talking. He also appears to be stifling a smile and/or laugh after his two most ridiculous references — No. 2 and No. 9.

Maybe it’s all a coincidence, but we really doubt it. And that would be no fun. We’ll continue to update you on this vitally important breaking story here at PFT.

--------------

Gold.

So much for the Pats not getting involved.

Reminds me of the "meow" scene in Super Troopers.

Reminds me of the "meow" scene in Super Troopers.

Loved that.

I like how in #10 the article managed to leave out the word "feet"

EDIT: Or maybe it was "toes" -- basically they left out the reference.

not sure if you guys heard but the bears and seahawks are playing this weekend
i know i was surprised to hear that there was at least one other football game too
nfl full of surprises

not sure if you guys heard but the bears and seahawks are playing this weekend
i know i was surprised to hear that there was at least one other football game too
nfl full of surprises

This message was sent from Pumpys IPhone.

This message was sent from Pumpys IPhone.
If it had been sent from Lathum's iPhone, it would've come out like this:

not sure if you gots hard but the bears and seahak are playing this wicked
i know i was spurrier to hear that ther was at least one oth football game to
ndfl fuul of spurisers

If it had been sent from Lathum's iPhone, it would've come out like this:

not sure if you gots hard but the bears and seahak are playing this wicked
i know i was spurrier to hear that ther was at least one oth football game to
ndfl fuul of spurisers

in Icelandic

ekki viss um hvort þú gots erfitt en birnir og seahak ert að spila þetta vonda
ég veit að ég var spurrier að heyra að það var að minnsta kosti einn annan fótboltaleik til
ndfl fuul af spurisers

lathum's iphone doin work

lathum's iphone doin work

unlike you, go work on getting us some Cadbury Eggs.

unlike you, go work on getting us some Cadbury Eggs.

http://image.com.com/tv/images/processed/default/10/46/1046e3a642c2dc60389d5bd309b0753e_def.jpg

unlike you, go work on getting us some Cadbury Eggs.
DAMN IT

So, who the hell do you root for in the AFC when you don't like any of the teams? I am leaning Ravens because I dislike them the least.

If anything, a Jets loss will make it a successful weekend.

And the Seahawks are going to beat the Bears.

If the Pats lose I'm rooting for the Ravens.

http://s3.amazonaws.com/twitpic/photos/full/224835703.jpg?AWSAccessKeyId=0ZRYP5X5F6FSMBCCSE82&Expires=1295018383&Signature=rx%2F%2FtBWDzw2yjoT1%2B75rugP%2FWi4%3D

Rex Ryan is no Han Solo. Jubba the Hutt is more appropriate.

Since that's the Post, I actually have no idea whether that's a photoshop or the real back page of today's paper.

Pretty sure that's the cover to the special section.

Rex Ryan is no Han Solo. Jubba the Hutt is more appropriate.

I gotta admit that the Darth Vader helmet kind of suits Bellichick though.

I gotta admit that the Darth Vader helmet kind of suits Bellichick though.

Fo' sho'!

Pretty sure that's the cover to the special section.

Special in more ways than one.

Jets' Scott threatens Welker - New England Patriots Blog - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post?id=4691844)

I figured even the Jets had to find that press conference funny. It was pretty harmless.

But they're the Jets. Should have known better.

I don't care who wins, but I'm looking forward to the game. Love when teams legitimately hate one another.

Jets' Scott threatens Welker - New England Patriots Blog - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/new-england-patriots/post?id=4691844)

Maybe I am being ridiculous but IMO he should be suspended for the game. There are enough injury concerns already and for a guy to come right out and say he is going to try to end another players career is absurd.

Reading my local Seattle board some clown is trying to say Lynch is a game breaker. Lol.

Maybe I am being ridiculous but IMO he should be suspended for the game. There are enough injury concerns already and for a guy to come right out and say he is going to try to end another players career is absurd.
Then they'd probably have to suspend Welker too for mocking someone's wife (which is pretty low class). I don't think the NFL should do anything though. Let them settle it on the field.

Then they'd probably have to suspend Welker too for mocking someone's wife (which is pretty low class). I don't think the NFL should do anything though. Let them settle it on the field.

Apples and oranges.

I guess. The NFL has already shown they are fine with sexual harrasment.

I guess. The NFL has already shown they are fine with sexual harrasment.

True.

I think this is more akin to putting a bounty on a guy.

But it's OK since it's not a QB.

Truthfully, fine them, warn them, but I just want to see everyone out there on Sunday.

Well if the Jet's win and Scott goes helmet to helmet on Welker I don't expect him in the next round.

I think ESPN is taking it too far by reporting on National television that the Steelers have a trick play ready if they can catch the Ravens in the right type of defense and it wont be Randal El or Big Ben throwing the pass.

Isnt this basically ESPN getting secret information and telling the opposition about it? Seems strange that this would be allowed in the NFL agreement of allowing "insider" coverage of these games.

Or it could be misinformation.

Or it could be misinformation.

Well I was kind of wondering if the Steelers didnt leak this on purpose to try and keep the Ravens from being so aggressive but still I think its out of bounds for ESPN to be reporting actual game strategy before the game is played.

Yeah, whether it's misinformation or not is irrelevant to the question of ESPN crossing the line.

This has been a depressing week of coverage for football.

If you don't want something reported don't tell the media, seems simple enough.

I remember a few years ago how the Texas Longhorns were furious with Brent Musburger for telling what Colt McCoy's hook em signal stood for during the broadcast for a game. I think it's understood that teams tell the media certain things to help them with the broadcast, and the media should respect that.

If you don't want something reported don't tell the media, seems simple enough.

Well they allow ESPN pretty much unlimited access to practices due to their working agreement so its not simple enough. If ESPN is allowed that right they need to not give away game strategy.

I remember a few years ago how the Texas Longhorns were furious with Brent Musburger for telling what Colt McCoy's hook em signal stood for during the broadcast for a game. I think it's understood that teams tell the media certain things to help them with the broadcast, and the media should respect that.

Exactly!

If I was betting on this weekends games Id take

Ravens +3
Pats -8
Falcons -1.5
Bears -10

I read an interesting trend in regards to he Pats/Jets game that a team losing by 35 or more points in a regular season game to the same team they are playing in the playoffs loses by 10 or more in rematch 80+ percent of the time. Also, according to Football outsiders the Pats have one of the 2 or 3 best teams of the past decade this year.

Let the Carnage begin!

Why do I have to listen to Dierdorff? Why or why? What is this? The "B" team?

How is that not PI?

How can the Ravens even argue this?

Why do I have to listen to Dierdorff? Why or why? What is this? The "B" team?

Because I am sure the A team got the New England game

How can the Ravens even argue this?

I don't know...but Harbaugh was trying.

Dierdorf saying Wallace initiated the contact...just wow

The officiating early has been pretty crappy. Its what you will get with that crew though.

Some good football when these two teams play.

Well, it seems like the refs are letting PIT get away with late hits anyway.

Are these fucking officials going to take control of this game?!

Steelers getting away with multiple cheap shots already.

I'm sure people have been asking this for at least three years, but why does Ike Taylor still have a job?

Are these fucking officials going to take control of this game?!

Steelers getting away with multiple cheap shots already.
After all the whining that the Steelers and Steelers fans did all season, maybe the league finally told the refs to only call penalties against Ike Taylor.

Did Polamalu forget how to tackle? What the hell was that?

Dan Dierdorf should be strictly prohibited from the booth in the playoffs.

Looks like pass interference is going to decide this matchup of evenly matched teams.

As awkward as it is, I think I have to root for the Pats in the AFC. I have always hated the Steelers the most, but the Jets are #2 with a bullet, and the Ravens still suck. I have mellowed on hating the Pats, but I still wouldn't want them to win the SB or anything crazy like that.

Throw deep once a series, best chance to win.

That's Brady, that low hit gets called

LOL!!!!

Throw deep once a series, best chance to win.

If that not work, throw deep two times. If that not work, 4 times. Then 8. Keep going until win!

That was definitely a fumble! Can't believe no one went after the ball.

And Pittsburgh is going to have no challenges the rest of the game after this.

That was definitely a fumble! Can't believe no one went after the ball.

+1

Whoa

What a bunch of fools. I'm sitting here wondering why no one is picking it up. Ever since the San Diego game with the Pats I see players diving at every loose ball without hesitation. Apparently these folks didn't get the memo.

My SOUL! Is this the NFL or a middle school game??? No whistle and everyone just stands around??? Really??????

Middle schoolers are coached better than that.

Saw that happen in a Giants-Eagles game a year or two ago. McNabb fumbled, but everyone thought it was a pass. No one went for the ball at all and the officials had to eventually end the play and give it to the Eagles where the ball stopped.

And no challenges left.

And no challenges left.

That's why the challenge rules suck. In the case of the opening kick, Steelers forced to use one to help the officials make the correct call. It seems officials are afraid to go up to the booth themselves if it's not inside 2 minutes.

Then they'd probably have to suspend Welker too for mocking someone's wife (which is pretty low class). I don't think the NFL should do anything though. Let them settle it on the field.

How did he mock Rex Ryan's wife? He certainly mocked Rex Ryan's love of his wife's feet.

The Jets are a classic can dish it out, but can't take it team; like most bullies.

That's why the challenge rules suck. In the case of the opening kick, Steelers forced to use one to help the officials make the correct call. It seems officials are afraid to go up to the booth themselves if it's not inside 2 minutes.

Yup I agree. They should just let have as many challenges as they need up to the 3 timeouts each half. You need to have a timeout to make a challenge and if you are incorrect it costs a timeout.

Its stupid that Pitt has to play the rest of this important game with no challenges expecially with the worst crew in the NFL officiating this game.

It seems officials are afraid to go up to the booth themselves if it's not inside 2 minutes.

They aren't allowed to. The booth can't call for a review outside of 2 minutes to go in the half.

Shove it down their throat!

another shitsburgh fumble

Even if PIT gets screwed out of this game by the officials (which they're not, btw), that still wouldn't make up for the Super Bowl against Seattle.

Polamalu whiffs on another tackle. I love it.

Polamalu whiffs on another tackle. I love it.
Ray Rice is making Polamalu his bitch in the open field.

TD RAVENS!!!!

Let's see what you got rapist.

Polamalu whiffs on another tackle. I love it.
If only he had Palmer out there hitting him right between the numbers.

If only he had Palmer out there hitting him right between the numbers.
LOL

As a Steelers fan, the game is pissing me off. Good thing I can come here and watch people get off on their Steelers hate to smile a little.

Suggs is all over Ben like ben is over a drunk chick in a mens bathroom

After all these years, Dan Dierdorf just realized he's an idiot.

Suggs is all over Ben like ben is over a drunk chick in a mens bathroom

:lol:

After all these years, Dan Dierdorf just realized he's an idiot.
You'd think that #26 is Rod Woodson.
*see replay*
that ball was out to far in front of Miller

Ok that was fooling nobody. Even IF they drew them offsides it STILL would have been 4th down.

Jeff Reed is smiling somewhere! :D

Ok that was fooling nobody. Even IF they drew them offsides it STILL would have been 4th down.
Yeah, there's no way that was an attempt to draw them offsides, except in Dan Dierdorf's world, apparently.

Jeff Reed is smiling somewhere! :D
At the bar...with 8 empties in front of him.

Being sick on the best football weekend of the year sucks.

signed, butterlung

As a Steelers fan, the game is pissing me off. Good thing I can come here and watch people get off on their Steelers hate to smile a little.

I'm sure the idea of two or three people you've never met being happy about Pittsburgh losing totally makes up for having to suffer through your team putting up that kind of first half performance in a playoff game against a rival team.

I'm sure the idea of two or three people you've never met being happy about Pittsburgh losing totally makes up for having to suffer through your team putting up that kind of first half performance in a playoff game against a rival team.

The only thing better is some more original Roethlisberger jokes.

Dierdorf...ugh

It took him 4 replays to realize Clark knocked the ball out.

If I was betting on this weekends games Id take

Ravens +3
Pats -8
Falcons -1.5
Bears -10

I read an interesting trend in regards to he Pats/Jets game that a team losing by 35 or more points in a regular season game to the same team they are playing in the playoffs loses by 10 or more in rematch 80+ percent of the time. Also, according to Football outsiders the Pats have one of the 2 or 3 best teams of the past decade this year.

I would go Pitt and Seattle. I know I'm losing out on Pitt, but you don't expect two TOs leading to TDs in one half either.

Of Chicago's 11 wins, they won by double digits 4 times. One of which was at home. They were even given the Vikings, Lions, and Seattle and only the Vikings were by double digits and they beat the Vikings by double digits on the road as well. Seattle being the notable loss. There's no way I trust Cutler in the playoffs either. Seriously, am I really willing to think the Bears in the playoffs can cover a 10 point spread when in two games they beat the Lions by a total of 9?

Poor pass by Flacco.

Ravens 2nd half has now topped the crappy Pittsburgh 1st half

Ravens falling apart

Matt Birk damn near snapped the ball up his own ass. Slapstick comedy finds its way into the NFL! Maybe this game really is better than arena football!

Oops.

arena football!

Wait, what's that? ;)

Wait, what's that? ;)
You know I didn't really mean it.

Matt Birk damn near snapped the ball up his own ass. Slapstick comedy finds its way into the NFL! Maybe this game really is better than arena football!

The 3 slow motion replays so you could see his ass jiggle were an especially nice touch.

The 3 slow motion replays so you could see his ass jiggle were an especially nice touch.
This is what HD was made for.

Is Ptt really going for this here?

Smart move by Harbaugh to let his defense get ready.

Damn, all Big Ben there.

Gusty call!

If he doesnt make it all that momentum is lost.

Is Ptt really going for this here?

Nice execution by the Steelers

Smart move by Harbaugh to let his defense get ready.
This is what I was thinking. Surprised you don't get called for a delay of game. Not that it ended up mattering.

If Big Ben is my starting quarterback, I'm going for it on 4th and inches every single time. I don't care if you're backed up on your own end zone, that guys a beast on qb sneaks.

Baltimore desperately needed a stop there. The place would have gone nuts with another TD

Smart move by Harbaugh to let his defense get ready.

This is what I was thinking. Surprised you don't get called for a delay of game. Not that it ended up mattering.
I hate that move. You get the benefit of a 20 second timeout without having to use one.

Flacco needs to throw that away.

Flacco needs to throw that away.

Lucky for him his punter bailed him out but yea that was a dumb move to just give away 8 yards.

coming back

Wow. This is ridiculous. I wonder how the human body can take the abuse these games entail.

Hmmm looks like a possible Vlade Divac-like embellish. Wish they had a camera angle with the left hand visible.

Rice has to bounce more runs to the outside. Just no room to move in the interior of the PIT d-line.

After all the flags tossed today, you know that was getting called.

4 minutes from the new OT rules and subsequent bitching from whatever fan base loses out thanks to them.

After all the flags tossed today, you know that was getting called.
The holding on the punt return, you mean? Yeah. Hell, the guy was holding with the right (visible) hand, so I thought it was a pretty easy call to make anyway.

I feel overtime and new overtime rules coming on.

After all the flags tossed today, you know that was getting called.

Oh no doubt. I thought it was a hold in real time, but after watching the replay I wonder how much of it was due to the embellishment and how much was due to a hold.

Dierdorf will botch explaining new OT rules. Hilarity ensues.

Dierdorf will botch explaining new OT rules. Hilarity ensues.

:popcorn:

Dierdorf will botch explaining new OT rules. Hilarity ensues.
"The team that kicks the ball off can kick off through the uprights for a field goal, but then they have to kick off again to give the other team a chance. If the next kickoff goes through the uprights, the other team can get a chance at the 20 yard line down by 6 points and they need a touchdown and extra point to win it. Wait, what do you mean, I'm fired?"

Damn, Dierdorf got the overtime rules right on his first try. :(

HE READ OUR MINDS!

I've gotta say, Jarrett Johnson isn't getting his name called today, but his outside pass rush is really opening up holes for the interior guys to get in and sack Roethlisberger. He deserves some credit for the Baltimore pressure tonight.

That must have been pre-recorded following 10 different takes.

That Jared guy is still the Subway endorser? Intense. Surprised he hasn't a reality-era meltdown. Well except for switching wives when he got skinny I guess.

Wow.

Holy crap!

First and GOAL!!!!!!!!!

What a throw by Ben. Ravens only chance now is to hold them to a FG.

Worst Prevent D ever.

I guess Ben came ready to play. Can't get mad at the guy. Should be a nice finish either way.

I wish Gus Johnson was calling that play.

Why the hell would Baltimore not rush Roethlisberger and actually give him time to throw the ball? Something works for you all day, and then you ignore it. I get that it was 3rd and forever, but I'm not a fan of giving up on the strongest part of your game.

DEFENSIVE HOLDING AGAINST THE FAT FUCK IN THE WHITE UNIFORM

That shit is never called.

DEFENSIVE HOLDING AGAINST THE FAT FUCK IN THE WHITE UNIFORM
LOL. Sure glad I'm not a Raven fan now. My TV would be destroyed.

Bizarre how they are trying to show the defensive holding call while an obvious hold on the offense is right in front of us.

Is Jim Harbaugh this much of a whiny bitch? I hope not for the 49ers.

It wasn't really holding against Terrence Cody. It was a gravitational pull. Refs cheating for the Steelers.

http://i.imgur.com/Xz3Bt.jpg

Now they call a late hit

Dumb dumb dumb... Oh Dan

A steeler leading with his helmet on a late, dirty hit. What a surprise!

It wasn't really holding against Terrence Cody. It was a gravitational pull. Refs cheating for the Steelers.

http://i.imgur.com/Xz3Bt.jpg

Damn. Buy your woman a Wii fit or something. Maybe a couple paper bags too, one for her head & another for yours in case hers falls off.

Hahaha, a squib kick from the 15? The Steelers are lucky that the Ravens didn't field that sooner.

Squib kick? Really?

Flacco with two piss poor throws in a row that could have been picked off.

Joe Flacco is not a good quarterback.

Steelers doing an awful lot of early celebrating on the sidelines

FFS

Congrats to the Steelers. Hell of a turn around in this game

Please oh please do not let it be Jets v. Steelers.

Wow. Nice grab Whoseyourmomma

Well, maybe now T.J. Houshmandzadeh can figure out why he hasn't been a huge part of the damn offense.

And he wonders why he's never a #1 WR...

Gotta love the drops by Ravens' receivers.

What a choke job by Houshmandzadeh.

I wanna fuck the hell out of that chick in the Champion sports bra commercial.

Joe Flacco is not a good quarterback.

I significantly overrated him. A bit early to call his career over, but I dunno how many more tight games to the Steelers and command his team's respect.

Ravens have no clue how to use Boldin. Thats the type of game he should do well in being a slot WR that should be able to exploit a Steelers blitz.

Wow, Dropkick Murphys as the intro music for Falcons-Packers. I like it!

Wow, Dropkick Murphys as the intro music for Falcons-Packers. I like it!

Seems a bit out of place. Before a NE game, sure, but before ATL/GB? Weird.

/tk

I wanna fuck the hell out of that chick in the Champion sports bra commercial.

Which one? That's like looking at a cake and trying to decide which piece you want.

Seems a bit out of place. Before a NE game, sure, but before ATL/GB? Weird.

/tk

Hard to tell, since I'm in the Boston area, but I thought they had gone mainstream. But then again, I never know these things.

Hard to tell, since I'm in the Boston area, but I thought they had gone mainstream. But then again, I never know these things.

They have gotten a little more popular over the years and refined their sound, but I wouldn't call them mainstream. After listening to them for over ten years still easily my favorite band.

That was basically a punt.

How do you show a playoff game from Atlanta and not play Sevendust music instead? :(

Wow, Dropkick Murphys as the intro music for Falcons-Packers. I like it!
If it is the song from the Departed, that gets used all the time.

If it is the song from the Departed, that gets used all the time.

It wasn't. The song from Departed is Shippin off to Boston. They used State of Massachusetts today.


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They have gotten a little more popular over the years and refined their sound, but I wouldn't call them mainstream. After listening to them for over ten years still easily my favorite band.

One of my favorite bands, too. But I like most things Boston.. :D

/tk

Woo hoo, Good start!

One of my favorite bands, too. But I like most things Boston.. :D

/tk

You must have good taste :).

NICE NICE NICE

For every time Aaron Rodgers completes a pass, Mike Nolan should get a kick in the nads..

Looking more like my prediction of 31-28, Packers, is gonna happen.

Matty Ice is melting.

Terrible play

It's over. Another superb Atlanta season down the drain. And it's not like 13-3 seasons grow on peach trees down there.

Tramon Williams is earning every penny of his fat new contract.

Idiot almost got caught because he was showboating

I wanna fuck the hell out of that chick in the Champion sports bra commercial.


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Yeah, I was not happy to see him turn around. Get in the endzone, then look behind you.

I did not see this coming at all in the GB/Atl game.

Wow.

Aaron Rodgers - wow!

I did not see this coming at all in the GB/Atl game.

Anyone who says they did is a liar

28 unanswered points for the Pack. Unreal.

When Atlanta had a 7-0 lead early in this one it equaled the largest deficit the Pack had all season. Hard to believe a team with 6 losses never trailed by more than that all season.

This is awful

I'm expecting Rodgers to spontaneously combust any moment now. He is absolutely on fire.

42-14. Insanity.

Anyone who says they did is a liar

It's not that far fetched. These are the Falcons, or as they've been known locally for years "the same ol' Falcons".

Packers look like the only team in the NFC that could challenge the Pats. Would be a fun match up, not to get ahead of myself or anything.

Packers just told the Falcons to sit down and learn how to play..

How was this team the #6 seed?

How was this team the #6 seed?

Losing to Detroit results in such punishment.

How was this team the #6 seed?

Losing 3 games to sub-500 teams can do that to you.

This is awful

No, this is GREAT!!!

I've seen this act by the Packers alot. Atlanta will make it interesting and get it to 7.

No, this is GREAT!!!

Only if you ar e aPAckers fan, otherwise, boooooorrrrrrrinnnnnng

Only if you ar e aPAckers fan, otherwise, boooooorrrrrrrinnnnnng

Not a Packers fan but still loving it.

That should be the ballgame right there.

Can we call him Matty Puddle?

Fire Ted Thompson Now- Finally, some 'Change' we can believe in! (http://www.firetedthompsonnow.com/)

"Crosby hits it. And Crosby hits it."

Best call I have heard by Buck.

I've seen this act by the Packers alot. Atlanta will make it interesting and get it to 7.

I would like to take the opportunity to apologize to the community for going all Jas_lov on you all.

My bad.

Samuel L. Jackson, you were incorrect. Maybe you just meant the actual bird.

The Packers' punter could've telecommuted today.

Just reading through this thread now after watching both games elsewhere... so happy Steelers won. Two notes after reading this thread:

1. I agree with Lathum that I would fuck the hell out of that Champion sports bra girl.
2. kingfc22 has some serious problems with the Steelers for whatever reason.