The Student of the Game

The Playoffs have begun, the Don Cheadle commercials have aired, and we have a set of 4 teams that can be referred to as “1 and done”. Let’s get to it!

GI-AIN’TS vs. PANTHERS . . .

In true Manning fashion, and just as was warned in my “X-Factor” for this game last week, Eli Manning threw 3 interceptions and lost a fumble in a choke job JUST short of his brother Peyton’s first appearance in the playoffs vs. the Browns in a Wild Card match-up. This sloppy performance made it easy for the Panthers to feast upon them like a Giant Goose who laid an egg, 23-0.

Manning threw 10-18 (56%) with the 4 turnovers for 113 yards. TE “Cocky” Jeremy Shockey was top ball catcher with 50 yards on 3 receptions. The top Free Agent Acquisition of the season, WR Plaxico “Plexiglas” Burress, was CATCHLESS — 0 — as in without contribution. On the ground, RB Tiki Barber, the SoTG’s Offensive Player of the Year, was virtually silenced gaining only 41 yards on 13 carries and 28 yards on 3 catches. The total offense for the G-men was 154 yards. The sadness and humiliation suffered from this playoff game gives the nickname “Big Blue” a whole new meaning.

Meanwhile, QB Jake DelHOMO went to work against the weak Giant “D” with 15-22 (68%) for 140 yards and a TD pass to none other than WR Steve Smith who was tops in receptions for his squad with 10 catches for 84 yards.

The Panther running game demonstrated cat-like speed as they racked up a total 223 yards on 45 carries. The top runner was RB DeShan Foster with 151 yards on his 27 carries. RB Nick Goings certainly earned honorable mention carrying 12 runs for 63 yards. WR Smith however, turning in a 12 yard TD score on an end around play, put up a second trip for 6.

While this year is over for the Gi-Ain’ts. . . look for them to cause a problem or two in the NFC East next year if they are smart enough to beef up their “D”.

As for the Cats, they’ll travel to Chicago to try and avenge the 13-3 loss to the Bears during the regular season.

JAGS vs. PANTHERS . . .

Florida was doomed during this round of playoff competition as Jacksonville carried half of the Sunshine State’s pain in the form of their whooped ass at the hands of the defending world champs, the Patriots, 28-3.

QB Byron Leftwich started the game wearing an Aircast to support his injured ankle. He threw 18-31 (58%) for 179 yards and 1 INT that was taken 73 yards to the house by UCF alumnus and Patriot CB Asante Samuel that sealed the coffin shut. After that, QB David Garrard was sent in to alleviate Leftwich’s pain while giving the back-up a chance to play in a playoff game when he threw 3-8 (38%) for 68 yards.

Rookie WR Matt Jones lead among his receivers with 94 yards on 6 catches while WRs Reggie Williams and Ernest Wilford both turned in 50+ yards each. The disappointment of this group was the one who is usually the star. WR Jimmy Smith was apparently sick this weekend with a case of “the Drops”. He dropped 3 balls that were worth at least 30 yards of air production. Now would this have led to another TD or FG opportunity? Maybe. But as the game wasn’t that close, Smith really can’t be placed with the blame.

The Jax running attack was also particularly crippled with Leftwich as the leading rusher on the night with 26 yards on 3 carries. That’s right . . . the dude with the bum ankle lead his team in RUSHING!!! With a total of 87 ground yards for the Jags on 17 carries, the most significant thing the RB corps offered HURT their cause when RB Alvin Pearlman fumbled the ball for their second turnover of the contest.

The Patriots had 0 turnovers on their day as Pro Bowl QB Tom Brady threw 15-27 (56%) for 201 yards and 3 TDs. TE Ben Watson was quite a force as he earned 5 catches for 91 yards and a 63 yard TD (a play where the Jax defense was giving a clinic on how NOT to tackle a TE barreling down the field). WRs Troy Brown and David Givens each also caught TDs while only putting up a combined 2 catches for 14 yards.

The New England running game was rather prolific itself turning in 118 total ground yards lead by RB Kevin Faulk who had 6 carries for 51 yards while turning in the second highest in receiving yards with 45 on 5 catches.

New England leaves Foxboro and climbs the Mile High to face the Broncos next week.

BUCS vs. ‘SKINS . . .

In the regular season when these two faced off, the Bucs won by a single point. It came down to one final play to decide the game. In this post-season rematch, the game was decided with in the first offensive series for the Bucs. -3 yard run, -4 yard run, INT returned inside the Tampa 10 yard line. ‘Skins gain vengeance despite their terrible offensive performance 17-10.

The ‘Skins offense was SO bad . . . HOW BAD WAS IT?!?! It was so bad that QB Mark Brunell who delivered 7-15 (47%) for 41 yards and an INT during an entire game delivered fewer passing yards than:

• Both RBs, the Redskins Clinton Portis and the Bucs Carnel “Cadillac” Williams each gained individually rushing.
• Than an injured QB who threw one pass in his first playoff game (More on that later)
• The yardage gained by Carolina BACK-UP RB Nick Goings on the run vs. the Gi-Ain’ts
• Recieving yards by Patriot RB Kevin Faulk.
• The distance of SS Sean Taylor’s fumble return for a TD that represented the difference in score at the end of the contest.

The leading reciever only had 18 yards on 2 catches — Pro Bowler WR Santana Moss.

Portis gained 53 yards on 16 carries and scored the ONLY offensive TD for his squad. Only 2 yards more than the scoring jaunt that Taylor broke off on the fumble return before his ejection. More in Random Bits. . .

So HOW did the Bucs LOSE with the Skin’s “O” being in the middle of producing n”O”thing!? Enter the young QB jitters. . . a theme throughout these playoff games this week. Chris Simms DOES deserve a bit of credit. The Bucs 1 TD came on a fantastic run where he took the reins and CHARGED like a stampeding horse and leaped into the goal for six. Unfortunately with the 2 INTs he threw (one to virtually begin and one to practically end the game), the anaolgy describing that run is the closest thing to a Bronco he’ll see in reference to a football field during this season.

Throwing 25-38 (66%) for 198 yards, Simms percentage wasn’t bad, but he did seem to struggle. He also lacked the run support that is a necessity to the Tampa offense. Now the Caddy wasn’t kept in the garage carrying 18 for 48 yards. But despite still gaining more offense than Brunell, his production was more fitting of a vehicle for sale by a grandma who only drove it to the store and back. He would breakdown on one play giving up a fumble that would become a 51 yard score for the ‘Skins and represent the foremost of offensive efforts. . . even if it WAS a defensive player who tallied it on the statbook.

No longer is the Bucs shortfall attributed to a level of talent of an offense line (which could still use a tweak or 2 none the less), or a particular aspect of their game. It’s coming down to mistakes made by future franchise leaders. If Tampa’s “D” can remain strong NEXT year, and their offensive linch pins (Simms, Williams and Galloway) can stay healthy, we may see them again next year in post season.

STEELERS vs. BENGALS . . .

Ya knew NO MATTER who won this game, the losing side would have some sort of gripe or complaint or some sort of “we would have won if (blank) didn’t happen” BEFORE such an excuse was handed out on a silver platter. The Steelers won 31-17 as the Bengals were forced to play without their starting QB Pro Bowler Carson Palmer who had thrown a single pass, a 66 yarder to WR Chris Henry, and got more yards than QB Mark Brunell earned in his game vs. the Bucs. On that play he had taken a false step while DE Kimo von Oelhoffen was grabbing onto his foot and tore his ACL. Then it began . . . the chants from both sides — “If Carson had played . . .” and depending on the side, it would be post scripted by “We would have won” or “We STILL would have won”. In either case, it is a debate that makes the whole “TASTE GREAT!! LESS FILLING!!” thing sound like an old beer commercial . . . Oh — Wait!

Although he did much better than his performance in KC in Week 17, (and Mark Brunell), QB Jon Kitna couldn’t deliver QUITE what the Bengals needed to win the day tossing 24-40 (60%) for 197 yards, 1 TD (to T.J. Houshmanzadeh) and 2 INTs. The leader in receiving yards for the Bengals was one that didn’t make much of an appearance until Henry was hurt shortly after Palmer left the game. WR Kevin Welker caught 5 passes for 73 yards. Honorable mention also goes to WR Chad Johnson who caught 4 passes for 59 yards.

RB Rudi Johnson also managed to gain more yards than Mark Brunell by carying 13 times for 56 yards with a TD. The Steelers, however managed 2 runners that out-produced Brunell. Sure, Jerome “Bus” Bettis could do it turning in 10 runs for 52 yards and a TD SMASH! But the other was a FB — that’s right a FULL BACK. Verron Haynes with 46 yards on 3 carries. That’s right — he out did Brunell’s 15 passes on 3 CARRIES!!!

But one QB who came out throwin’ well was Pittsburgh QB “Big” Ben Roethlisberger who zipped 14-19 (74%) for 208 yards (more than five times Brunell), 3 TDs and absoultely 0 turnovers. The top WR for the Steelers was former Niner WR Cedrick Wilson who caught 3 passes for 104 passes and a TD. The TD pass he caught was special not only because it is his only score of the season so far, but it also came from “Big” Ben after the QB recieved a backfield toss from Antwaan Randle-El who got the ball from a direct snap. 43 yards later, Wilson scores on a strike that single-handedly overtakes Mark Brunell’s passing yardage.

Honorable mention goes to RB “Fast” Willie Parker, for 3 passes for 41 yards including 19 yard screen pass stretched into a TD score. He was a factor by gaining 79 all-purpose yards (16 carries for 38 yards on the ground).

The Steelers rematch Indy at the RCA dome next Sunday.

ROUND 2 PREVIEW

#1 Seahawks vs. #6 ‘Skins . . .

QB: Hasselbeck vs. Brunell — PUSH . . . these are 2 QBs who rely on runs to open up their passing game. Neither one necessarily stands out among the pair. Both SHOULD have been Pro Bowlers. . . only one is.

WRs: Jurevicius, and whoever’s NOT hurt vs. S. Moss, Thrash, and TE Chris Cooley - I’ll take Moss AND Cooley over whatever WR Seattle puts on the field. Even if they sign a free agent known as “Kitchen Sink”. I mean why not, the Patriots got to draft “Diet Pepsi Machine”

RBs: Alexander vs. Portis — Both are good, but Alexander is superior. After all, he’s the first MVP selection the Pro Sports writers and the SoTG have agreed on since your humble narrator’s inception.

“D”: This too is a PUSH. Seattle has an AWESOME pass rush while the ‘Skins “D” isn’t exactly chopped liver behind their front 4.

X-Factor: The easiest X-factor to point out in a playoff game since Michael Vick’s post-season first trip. . . it’s ALL going to depend on if they can slow down or by some miracle STOP Shaun Alexander. That guy is INSANITY on the ground. It’s no accident he’s the rushing title holder.

The other thing to consider is if either Mark Brunell OR Cinton Portis can produce, the Seahawks will then be vulnerable by using one aspect of the ‘Skin offense (be it run or pass) to set up the other. The Seahawks MUST make them a one weapon offense or it is going to be a close game.

Don’t sleep TOO much on the ‘Skins. While I still believe they are going to lose, anyone with a brain would recommend they use a similar defensive plan as last week. While Hasselbeck is a Pro-Bowl QB and Tampa’s Chris Simms is not, I’ve never TRULY seen a game that he’s won WITHOUT help from this year’s MVP Sean Alexander. Shutting down Alexander is OBVIOUSLY a key, but doing that will be a lot harder than keeping the “Caddy” from driving too far off the lot. Alexander is no rookie and was just one yard short in 2004 of being a 2-time rushing title- holder. Also, the ‘Skins beat the Niners 56-0 as opposed to 18-16 in the first regular season meetings.

NFC drama will ensue, but I think despite my gut instincts, I see the Seahawks achieving the first post game victory under coach Mike Holmgren, 24 - 14.

#2 Bears vs. #5 Panthers . . .

QB: Grossman vs. DelHOMO — I’ve been put into the awkward situation of defending DelHOMO . . . YUCK! He’s the proven QB between the 2 by comparison despite his excess of INTs

RBs Jones vs. Foster — PUSH! both are SOLID performers. Jones’ numbers are higher because the Bears are confident in their ability to run and still in the closet as to whether their guys can complete passes to one another. DelHOMO’s team already does that openly.

WRs: Muhammad, Cage, and TE Clark vs. Smith, Colbert, and Prohel — the Carolina Corps edges out the Bears on the strength of their supporting WRs. The Bears WRs are also a touch banged up. The good news for them is that stats indicate a better production under Grossman.

“D”: Bears, DUH! Least points allowed . . . sound familiar? THIS is a “D” that deserves the credit unlike the now eliminated Cincy “D”.

X-factor: Vengeance. . . period. The Cats were crated last time they faced the Bears, but the score was 13-3. With a thirst for revenge and momentum on THEIR side, suddenly the Bears have to come out first and strike quickly. FGs will be a factor in this game as EVERY point will count.

The Bears are exposed and sadly, the Cats move on 20-13

#1 Colts vs. #6 Steelers . . .

QB: Manning vs. Roethlisberger — It’s not that “Big” Ben AIN’T good. . . but he couldn’t be hired on the spot as a Offensive Coordinator. I can’t want until Peyton Manning starts his coaching career after retirement. That’ll likely be a sight to see.

WRs Harrison, Wayne, Stokley and TE Clark vs. Ward, Randle-El, Wilson and TE Miller — The best corps of receivers in the NFL is INDY. But the former top WR corps in the league is nothing to sneeze at.

RBs: “Edge” vs. Pitt Runners Inc. — PUSH! Both are DANGEROUS things that deserve respect. The key to competing against EITHER team is quieting the ground game.

“D”: Pittsburgh — The toughest “D” in the league, their “road” stats are among the top in the NFL and they ain’t the bad at home either. They were giving the Colts a problem in their regular season. . . until the bad coaching decisions began.

X-factor: They’ve already won ONE rematch game, and now Pittsburgh will be attacking the Colts in a similar fashion . . . but it won’t be enough. The Colts have the intangibles on their side as well. The “let’s win this one for James Dungy” inspiration will be more than ANYTHING the Steelers could combat. They lose and they lose big.

35-14 as Peyton goes on towards his first Super Bowl.

#2 Broncos vs. #4 Patriots . . .

QB: Plummer vs. Brady — Tom Brady is the better of the pair best on his accuracy and playoff record.

WRs Smith, Lelie, and TE Putzier vs. Branch, Givens, and Brown — Because of the depth of their WR Corps, the Pats take this category.

RBs: Denver’s committee vs. N.E.’s committee — Denver more consistently and confidently runs the ball. What other team could make a comeback out of RON DAYNE for crap sake?

“D”: PUSH! Both feature solid DB corps. Both have D-lines and LBs that don’t mess around. It’s a matter who gets more turnovers.

X-factor — Bellichek will be focused on silencing the Broncos running game and Rod Smith (just as they did vs. Jags silencing THEIR running game and WR Jimmy Smith). This means that Jake Plummer may have to throw the ball more than 30 times in a game. This EXPONENTIALLY raises his potential to err.

Conversely, the Broncos MUST concentrate on the pass, and let LBs Ian Gold and Al Wilson do whatever they can to stop the run. A few blitzes by John Lynch should be thrown in, but used SPARRINGLY as it sets up an opportunity for a long ball that Brady will surely exploit.

The Patriots will return to the AFC championship 35-21

RANDOM BITS

Each of the 4 previous games featured QBs with 3 years or LESS experienced in the NFL. All but one of the aforementioned QBs lost except for “Big” Ben Roethlisberger who is different in one respect from his other 3 counterparts . . . he’s BEEN to the playoffs before — for all those who don’t think experience matters in the playoffs, there are several playoff hopefuls who can point to the TV and show you why as they’re watching the games at home.

The Jets traded coach Herman Edwards for a 4th round draft pick. If he could somehow get an LB corps and a D-line that is upgraded, the Chiefs will again be a contender for the playoffs.

It may take 2 years, but you will see Carson Palmer again, and he will be in the playoffs.

Mark Brunell has officially outlasted Byron Leftwich in the Playoffs. Sure, the Jacksonville faithful will likely tell you departing with Brunell was still the right choice, but I don’t see Leftwich as a Pro Bowl Candidate. . . or winning any playoff games.

Redskins SS Sean Taylor spit on Tampa RB Michael Pittman who then ponked him in the helmet. The call on the field was a Personal Foul for Unsportsman-like Conduct and an ejection against Taylor. All correct calls and I commend the official for having the balls for putting that thug (talented as he may be) out of the game.

HOWEVER, here’s what I find a touch troubling — Michael Pittman’s swat was NOT penalized. Now, for the record — if this were “Moral Court”, I would rule in favor of Pittman and congratulate him for swatting that thug ass hippie for pulling that crap.
HOWEVER, to not penalize BOTH players in the situation is then setting the officials’ as “moral judges” and all occurences as this will be subject to an official’s judgement. Sometimes retaliation is OK, sometimes it isn’t and whether something is or isn’t flagable becomes a sore subject and then WE HAVE REAL PROBLEMS.

The correct call is the “unsportsman-like” on BOTH players. . . with the Taylor ejection. So while the Bucs gained no yards from the incident, the ‘Skins are still hurt by the loss of their star safety. And thus ALL infractions are accounted for and there is thusly NO GRAY AREA WHATSOEVER!! IF you pull anything as this — you’ll be PENALIZED — PERIOD!!!

Also — the league is full of CRAP — a $17K fine. . . that’s ALL!?!?!?! It would be one thing if he was getting suspended from the playoff game. However, since the NFL REFUSES to suspend playoff players, he should be hit with $50 K . . . a least make it an amount where he wishes he wouldn’t have done it at ALL!.

It has become official that Texas Longhorn QB Vince Young is coming to the NFL. It is my belief that the Tennessee Titans SHOULD pick him. The Saints SHOULD NOT get Vince Young. They do not have an O-line, or the teacher in place (Steve McNair vs. Aaron Brooks) that Young needs to have ANY HOPE in making me believe he has pro potential. Meanwhile, a Matt Leinart who is already more adjusted as a decision maker is a better fit in New Orleans. . . granted they MUST get linemen in the second round of the draft or use draft picks in a trade.

Look for Doug Flutie or a Flutie type to be signed also in New Orleans to be Leinart’s teacher. USC’S Jameel White, despite being Reggie Bush’s back up SHOULD be drafted as well. He’ll be successful in the NFL I believe.

From the Desk of the Student of the Game