<![CDATA[Cheap Oakley Fast Jacket Sunglasses with free shipping - News]]>Wed, 25 Mar 2020 11:45:42 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Stick a fork in them: The 2012 Carolina Panthers]]>Tue, 30 Oct 2012 04:00:25 GMThttp://2012oakleyfastjacketonline.weebly.com/news/stick-a-fork-in-them-the-2012-carolina-panthersThis season was supposed to be about the Carolina Panthers taking the next step.

Instead, they've gone backward, and that's gone beyond quarterback Cam Newton and all the question marks that suddenly surround him.

The Panthers were flirting with the fork last week. After getting their guts ripped out in a one-point loss to the Chicago Bears on Sunday, we're ready to call this thing.


Around the League will stick a fork in teams that no longer have any chance to make the playoffs:

32. Kansas City Chiefs
31. Jacksonville Jaguars
30. Cleveland Browns
29. Carolina Panthers
What went wrong In truth, Newton's statistics aren't far off from where he was last season at this time. This is an issue of expectations, and the assumption that Newton would only get better with a full offseason under his belt.

That hasn't happened, and his body language and postgame press conferences have made him a target for media that smells blood. Case in point: On Sunday, Fox commentators buried Newton for not running over to thank Louis Murphy after the wide receiver recovered Newton's fumble in the end zone for a touchdown.

The commentators -- Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston and Tony Siragusa -- weren't exactly wrong. But it still showed the scrutiny this guy faces on a weekly basis.

The Panthers aren't 1-6 solely because of Newton. Pro Bowl center Ryan Kalil went to injured reserve three weeks ago with a foot injury. Linebacker Jon Beason soon joined him. Running back D'Angelo Williams barely plays, openly discusses his potential to be traded and represents the worst contract the team ever handed out.

Speaking of which, a series of bad decisions cost Marty Hurney his gig as general manager. This is a team without a rudder right now.

What went right Carolina staying quiet?
Panthers coach Ron Rivera doesn't expect anyone on the team to be traded before Thursday's deadline, Dan Hanzus writes. More ...
On balance, the Panthers' defense has improved, particularly since the Week 6 bye. They're allowing less points and total yardage. They're getting better pressure on the quarterback, and they're the second-least penalized unit in the NFL. They hit on their first-round draft pick in Luke Kuechly, who has played well since taking his rightful spot at middle linebacker.

The pass rush made life hell for Matt Ryan in Week 4, then sacked Jay Cutler six times in the first half alone Sunday.

This unit isn't far from being a strong point.

What still matters Newton unquestionably remains the future of this franchise, and the season can be salvaged in a big-picture sense if the Panthers can get their quarterback to start feeling better about himself and the operation. Moving away from the zone-read attack was a good start.

This also is a team that shouldn't forget how close it was to being 5-2. With some smarter play and a dash of luck, the Panthers would have road wins at Atlanta and Chicago. This is your classic "Good Bad Team." Coach Ron Rivera has his critics -- and feel free to question his strategy -- but the Panthers play hard.






What changes are coming? A bad record, combined with a new GM, usually means bad things for the head coach. Rivera needs his Panthers to finish strong, and even that might not be enough to keep him gainfully employed.

Panthers owner Jerry Richardson is 76, so don't expect a rebuilding process rooted in patience. The backfield needs a makeover, and Newton could use some more playmakers around wide receiver Steve Smith, who's not getting any younger.

The Panthers can go in one of two very different directions. Handle with care.

]]><![CDATA[Andy Reid's Philadelphia Eagles among 2012's biggest letdowns]]>Tue, 30 Oct 2012 03:59:55 GMThttp://2012oakleyfastjacketonline.weebly.com/news/andy-reids-philadelphia-eagles-among-2012s-biggest-letdownsAs it began, the 2012 season, you couldn't help but root for Andy Reid.

In August, his son, Garrett, died of a drug overdose. And Reid performed that most terrible task -- burying a child -- with a stoic bravery.

Darlington: Are Eagles lost?
A dejected Michael Vick talked like Philly had been defeated by more than the Falcons on Sunday, Jeff Darlington writes. More ...
So you wanted to think of the season as a saga, to endow it with some greater meaning. To think that the coach, his quarterback and the team would overcome and provide, not just a happy ending, but a deeper one.

Through seven games, however, the Eagles are among the league's greatest disappointments.

Pricey talent. Super Bowl expectations. Three straight losses.

The Falcons won in Philadelphia on Sunday. That hadn't happened since the Reagan administration.

It's worth mentioning that Michael Vick did not turn the ball over. And the defense -- coming off a month-long moratorium on sacks -- actually dropped Matt Ryan for a loss.

But the same squad that allowed 21 points a game under Juan Castillo -- the coordinator Reid fired during the bye week -- gave up 30 yesterday with Todd Bowles, Castillo's successor, a former defensive back. This isn't about Bowles, of course. Or Vick.

It's about Reid.






He was 13-0 coming off bye weeks. Until yesterday.

Yesterday was supposed to prove something. And it did.

Matt Ryan had a passer rating of 137.4, and Shady McCoy ran the ball just 16 times. No, I don't get it either.

An embarrassing performance. Not my words. Reid's.

It's the truth. It's just football. Sometimes, there's no deeper meaning.

]]><![CDATA[ Greg Schiano: Bucs' Eric Wright has Achilles injury]]>Tue, 30 Oct 2012 03:59:01 GMThttp://2012oakleyfastjacketonline.weebly.com/news/-greg-schiano-bucs-eric-wright-has-achilles-injuryThe 2012 season is becoming more complicated by the day for Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Eric Wright.

Coach Greg Schiano told reporters Monday that Wright is dealing with an Achilles injury. Wright didn't practice Monday after playing in Thursday night's win over the Minnesota Vikings.

Jeremiah: Week 8 revelations
Daniel Jeremiah identifies three rising superpowers, an underachiever, an overachiever and a true freak of nature. More ...
"That is a little bit of a concern," Schiano said.

Wright's injury comes on the heels of reports that he faces a potential four-game suspension for Adderall use, which violates the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing drugs.

"Per the league guidelines, I really can't discuss it, and neither can Eric," Schiano said.

A reporter asked Schiano if he would be disappointed to see another of his players penalized after cornerback Aqib Talib was hit with a four-game suspension for using the same substance. Schiano declined to answer.

If Wright misses Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders -- because of injury or the league hammer -- a combination of Brandon McDonald and Myron Lewis will be asked to step up for the Bucs. Schiano also expressed confidence in Leonard Johnson, but losing your top two cover men isn't easy to rebound from in the NFL.

]]><![CDATA[N.C. State quarterback Mike Glennon set to climb draft boards]]>Tue, 30 Oct 2012 03:57:48 GMThttp://2012oakleyfastjacketonline.weebly.com/news/nc-state-quarterback-mike-glennon-set-to-climb-draft-boardsMike Glennon might be the best quarterback available in the 2013 NFL Draft.


Every Monday, NFL.com college football expert Bucky Brooks looks back on the weekend action and evaluates which prospects are rising and which are sliding.

• Week 9: QB Glennon flying up draft boards
• Week 8 photo gallery: Top 20 college prospects
• Week 7: College football's best defender
• Week 6: Geno Smith is the real deal
• Week 5: Looking for prototype running backs
• Week 4: FSU QB E.J. Manuel answers doubts
• Week 3: USC's Barkley is still the best QB
• Week 2: Georgia's Jarvis Jones is top Dawg
• Week 1: ND's Tyler Eifert stands out
I know that statement will take many by surprise, considering the endless hype and speculation surrounding West Virginia's Geno Smith and USC's Matt Barkley, but there is a growing sentiment in the NFL scouting community that the N.C. State star could be the crown jewel of this year's quarterback class.

I had heard about Glennon's ascension up draft boards across the league over the past few weeks, but it wasn't until I made a trip to North Carolina to study him in person on Saturday that I could see what all the commotion was about. Glennon's masterful performance in a 43-35 loss to North Carolina made the visit well worth the trouble.

Glennon completed 29 of his 52 passes for 467 yards, throwing five touchdowns and two interceptions. Those numbers might not be impressive at first glance, but when one considers the 10 passes dropped by Wolfpack receivers, it becomes clear that the stat sheet wasn't indicative of Glennon's efficient play from the pocket. Glennon connected on 20 of his first 29 passes and finished the night with five completions of 30-plus yards. Most impressively, he hit 10 different receivers and showed his capacity to make every throw in the book from the pocket.

Charting Glennon's throws, I noticed that while he worked every area of the field, he was particularly effective in the 10- to 15-yard void between the hashes, repeatedly hitting receivers on the move on an assortment of crossing routes and square-ins over the middle. Although the over/under read is a fairly simple one, the fact that Glennon wasn't afraid to throw between linebackers speaks volumes about his anticipation and awareness.

I noticed three additional aspects of Glennon's game that will stand out when NFL scouts pop in the tape:

1. Arm talent. Glennon is one of the most impressive throwers in college football. He has rare arm strength, and his ability to make all of the throws to every area of the field with zip and velocity makes him an ideal fit for most traditional pro-style systems. While watching him work against the Tar Heels, I was blown away by the pace of his balls. Glennon unleashes laser-like tosses on out-breaking routes; he will not have any issues throwing the deep comeback to the far side of the field from the pocket. When given the opportunity to attack down the field on vertical routes, Glennon displayed excellent accuracy and touch. He routinely dropped the ball in over the receiver's proper shoulder, and he rarely forced his receivers to alter their stride. This will certainly catch the attention of scouts and coaches who favor offensive systems built on the vertical passing game; it could be what separates Glennon from the other prospects leading up to the draft.



Mike Glennon makes up for a lack of athleticism with accuracy in the pocket. (David Butler II/US Presswire)


2. Pocket presence. Glennon is not an athletic playmaker, and he can't defeat defenses with his feet. He can, however, punish opponents with his precise passing skills. When given ample time to throw from a clean pocket, Glennon looked like a potential Pro Bowl-caliber player, delivering pinpoint throws to his intended targets and displaying the kind of consistent placement one would expect from an elite signal-caller. His accuracy and ball placement, in fact, ranked as definite bright spots in his overall performance. Though he showed outstanding poise against pressure, he simply lacked the elusiveness to avoid multiple rushers in the pocket, taking five sacks that a better athlete might have avoided. To succeed against blitz-heavy tactics as a pro, he'll need to develop a top-notch feel for deciphering coverage, particularly blitz pressure, and utilize hot reads/sight adjustments to exploit the defense's vulnerabilities. Glennon certainly appears to have the football IQ necessary for grasping and executing that concept after spending four years playing within a pro-style system at N.C. State, but he'll need additional coaching and repetitions to master the nuances of the tactic.

3. Leadership. One of the traits most coveted by scouts and coaches searching for a franchise quarterback is leadership ability. Elite quarterbacks must be able to inspire confidence in their teammates with their poise and performance under pressure. They must also outwork everyone in the building, putting in the time to master the nuances of the offense. Glennon exhibited all of those qualities with his strong performance against the Tar Heels. He rallied the Wolfpack back from an 18-point deficit, making a host of big plays to energize his sideline. Most importantly, he didn't give up on his teammates despite the countless miscues and blunders they made in the passing game. He kept his body language positive and his interactions in the huddle encouraging. Though N.C. State lost, Glennon showed all of the intangible qualities one looks for in a quarterback, likely boosting his value in the minds of evaluators.

Glennon is currently a borderline first-round pick on draft boards across the NFL, but the buzz circulating in the scouting community leads me to believe he'll make a dramatic jump up the charts as the evaluation process continues. At this stage of his development, Glennon reminds me of Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco. I can see a team falling in love with his talent when he works out in front of scouts at all-star games and other pre-draft workouts. With at least four more games to showcase his immense talent and potential, Glennon is definitely a prospect to watch over the next few months.



WORD ON THE STREET



Fans of the Pac-12 will take umbrage with this assessment, but some NFL evaluators believe Clemson's DeAndre Hopkins and Sammy Watkins are the best one-two receiving punch in college football. One high-ranking AFC East scout raved about the duo's "explosiveness," talking about how their respective games complement each other. He was impressed with Hopkins' combination of size, speed and hands, and lauded Watkins' home-run ability. When asked to rank the two, the scout favored Watkins for his big-play ability, but also said he believes Hopkins has all of the tools to be an effective playmaker at the next level. It must be noted that this conversation did occur hours before USC's Marqise Lee posted 345 receiving yards and two scores against Arizona. But I think it still speaks volumes about how some NFL scouts view the Clemson duo when compared to other dynamic tandems around the country.



STOCK UP





Georgia's Jarvis Jones projects as one of football's top defensive prospects. (Kevin Liles/)


Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia
Jones is regarded as the top pass rusher in college football by many evaluators, and he certainly cemented that sentiment with his dominant performance against Florida. Jones finished Saturday with 13 tackles, three sacks and two forced fumbles, displaying a relentless motor that overwhelms blockers on the edge. For the second straight year, Jones single-handedly dominated the Gators as a disruptive pass rusher (he recorded four sacks against them in 2011) and provided NFL evaluators with a glimpse of his potential as a future pro.

Giovani Bernard, RB, North Carolina
Bernard has blossomed into one of college football's most explosive multi-purpose threats this season. He has amassed 1,249 total yards from scrimmage with 13 combined scores over seven games, adding 249 yards and two touchdowns on 12 punt returns. While those numbers are certainly impressive, it was his sensational showing against N.C. State that will have NFL evaluators salivating over his potential as a dynamic weapon at the next level. Bernard rushed for 135 yards on 23 attempts with two touchdowns and added 95 receiving yards on eight catches. Most impressively, he returned a punt 74 yards for a game-winning touchdown with just 13 seconds remaining while nursing a bum ankle. Given the changing job description of the NFL running back, Bernard's ability to contribute as a versatile playmaker makes him an attractive prospect.

Marqise Lee, WR, USC
It's time to recognize Lee as the best receiver in the Pac-12. The sensational sophomore has been a dominant playmaker for the Trojans since his arrival last year, and few defenders can match his unique combination of speed, athleticism and burst. This was apparent during Lee's 16-catch, 345-yard performance against Arizona on Saturday. He repeatedly ran past Wildcat defenders on vertical routes and also displayed the ability to turn short passes into big gains. Lee converted a simple square-in route into a 49-yard catch-and-run touchdown, then repeated the feat later in the game, grabbing a slant and avoiding multiple defenders on the way to a 44-yard score. Most importantly, both plays occurred on third down, showcasing Lee's ability to deliver key plays in pivotal moments.

Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson
Celebrated as college football's most explosive playmaker prior to the season, Watkins had been relatively quiet for the Tigers through the first half of 2012. After missing three games due to a suspension and illness, he entered Saturday's matchup with just 24 receptions for 202 yards in four games, having looked nothing like the dynamic pass catcher who torched the ACC for 1,219 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns last season. However, that all changed with his eight-catch, 202-yard performance against Wake Forest. Watkins blew past the Demon Deacons on an assortment of vertical routes that showcased his remarkable speed and burst. Watkins also flashed his exceptional running skills on a 61-yard catch-and-run touchdown, eluding three defenders in a tight area down the sideline. It's only right that Watkins should finally make an appearance on this list after topping the 100-yard mark for the first time this season.



STOCK DOWN





Although Georgia knocked off previously unbeaten Florida, Bulldogs QB Aaron Murray did not perform well. (Kevin Liles/US Presswire)


Aaron Murray, QB, Georgia
The Bulldogs are back on top of the SEC East, but Murray's suspect performance against Florida nearly cost them a shot at the crown. Murray connected on just 12 of 24 passes for 150 yards, tossing one touchdown and three interceptions. Although Murray put the game away with a 45-yard touchdown to Malcolm Mitchell in the fourth quarter, he'd been largely ineffective to that point, keeping the Bulldogs from seizing control in the early goings.

Sean Mannion, QB, Oregon State
Mannion admirably returned to the Beavers' starting lineup after missing two games with a knee injury, but he failed to bring his "A" game with him. The sophomore tossed four interceptions in a 20-17 loss to Washington, and failed to make critical, drive-sustaining plays with the game on the line. Although Mannion completed 18 of 34 passes for 221 yards with one touchdown, he looked hesitant and uncertain in the pocket, and made errant throws to open receivers down the field. Mannion's inconsistent play kept the Beavers from generating an offensive rhythm against the Huskies; their first loss of the season should fall squarely on the quarterback's shoulders.

Conner Vernon, WR, Duke
Vernon had just 12 receiving yards on three receptions and was a non-factor in Duke's 48-7 loss to Florida State on Saturday. The limited production was a surprising development for a player who'd entered the game on the verge of eclipsing the ACC record for career receiving yards (Florida State's Peter Warrick amassed 3,517 yards between 1996 and 1999) while pacing the Blue Devils with 51 receptions for 749 yards this season. Against the Seminoles, however, Vernon was unable to break the conference record, failing to get open consistently or make a significant impact on the game despite being the focal point of the Blue Devils' passing attack.

]]><![CDATA[Brady Quinn uncertain for Kansas City Chiefs' next tilt]]>Tue, 30 Oct 2012 03:57:06 GMThttp://2012oakleyfastjacketonline.weebly.com/news/brady-quinn-uncertain-for-kansas-city-chiefs-next-tiltThe Kansas City Chiefs are uncertain if quarterback Brady Quinn will be ready for Thursday night's game against the San Diego Chargers.


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• Watch on NFL Network and NFL.com/LIVE


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Coach Romeo Crennel told The Associated Press on Monday that Quinn is being evaluated for a possible concussion. He was injured in the opening quarter of Sunday's 26-16 loss to the Oakland Raiders.

Crennel said Quinn will start against San Diego if he's cleared to play by team doctors. If he can't go, Matt Cassel will continue his strange season under center just a week after he was benched. Quinn wasn't at the team's facility Monday, leaving Cassel to guide the starters through a walk-through. The sticky issue here is time; the Chiefs face a condensed week of practices.

"Cassel will take those turns, but then when the doctor lets me know I'll make a decision," Crennel told the Associated Press. "If (Quinn is) healthy and he can go, he'll go. We'll wait to see what happens."

The Chiefs have issues all over the field. They lack direction on offense, and Crennel struggled to produce answers after Sunday's loss. Asked why running back Jamaal Charles had just five carries against Oakland, the coach thought for a few seconds before saying, "I'm not exactly sure."

Neither are we, friend. Neither are we.

]]><![CDATA[New York Giants just find ways to win; Dallas Cowboys do not]]>Tue, 30 Oct 2012 03:52:55 GMThttp://2012oakleyfastjacketonline.weebly.com/news/new-york-giants-just-find-ways-to-win-dallas-cowboys-do-notARLINGTON, Texas -- When Dez Bryant leapt into the air, secured the ball and landed hard on his hip, Cowboys Stadium erupted. The Dallas Cowboys had emailed season-ticket holders before this rivalry bout against the New York Giants and asked for noise, and when it appeared the mercurial receiver had snatched a 37-yard touchdown pass out of the air to steal an improbable victory, they got it.

Cowboys celebrated. Giants dealt with their emotions.

New York defensive lineman Osi Umenyiora: "Sickness. I felt sick."

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As quickly as trainers huddled around Bryant the ailing would-be hero, though, the stadium hit pause. Replay. Ten seconds left. Game on the line. Had Bryant placed his hand on the end line? Big Blue sensed a second life.

Giants receiver Victor Cruz: "They didn't show a replay in the stadium, so I didn't feel like it was over."

Giants cornerback Corey Webster: "Long foul ball."

And finally, there was Eli Manning, who knows a thing or two about resourcefulness when it counts the most. Standing on the sidelines with the difference between a crushing loss and a gutty win hanging in the balance, Manning searched for info.

"I heard a few rumors on the sidelines from people texting their brothers back home after watching the TV copy," Manning said. "People were getting word."

When thunder became silence, it was clear what had happened. Bryant was ruled out, the Giants' defense eventually held, and they wound up with a 29-24 win over the Cowboys in front of 94,067 stunned, confused, frustrated fans.

Monday's focus was likely be on the Cowboys. It always is. Tony Romo threw four interceptions. Coach Jason Garrett's questionable play calling in the red zone with under two minutes remaining. That Felix Jones fumble. And Bryant's near-heroics coming up just short -- again.

For a Dallas team that is 3-4, everything is up for discussion.

But let's not overlook the victor's spoils. This was the type of game the G-Men could have lost, but rarely ever do. Just a few inches of Bryant's hand had hit the back line.

"What more do you need?" Giants coach Tom Coughlin asked.

Nothing. That's it. A few inches was enough to earn the win, and the Giants always seem to be on the right side of those inches. It's been that way for years in the Coughlin-Manning regime. Like the inches that separated the football from the ground on David Tyree's miraculous catch. The inches between Mario Manningham's feet and the sideline.






A reporter suggested to Umenyiora that luck was on the Giants' side. Tsk, tsk.

"It's no luck, man," said Umenyiora, part of a defensive line that sacked Romo four times. "That's football. (Bryant) didn't make the play at the end of the day. I don't think it's luck. He wasn't able to make the play."

That is the difference between the Giants and the Cowboys -- now and over the past couple of years. The G-Men eke out wins over the Washington Redskins and Cowboys, two NFC East opponents, in back-to-back weeks. After the second victory, Manning praises his team's fight and says, "We find a way to win the close ones. That's what it's all about."

Meanwhile, the Cowboys outplayed the Giants in most statistical categories -- except turnovers. And points.

Better third-down percentage, more yards, more 100-yard receivers, more time of possession, better in the red zone, more touchdowns. Yet, just like in the game against the Baltimore Ravens two weeks ago, a missed opportunity defined the Cowboys, leaving Bryant to say, "I know we're better than our record."

If the Cowboys keep losing games like this, are they? Are they the team that flashes eye-popping potential? Or the one that has a losing record?

Yes, they overcame a 23-point deficit on Sunday. But they also fumbled the ball away at a crucial point. Yes, the Giants blew a 23-point lead. But as Umenyiora pointed out, "We didn't expect to come here and destroy them. We knew it was going to be a battle."

"It's the mistakes that will lose the ballgame," Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said. "The big plays don't win the games as much as mistakes lose the ballgame. We made the kinds of mistakes that lose ballgames. Frankly, with that many turnovers, with those kinds of interceptions, it shouldn't surprise us that we didn't win this game."

At 6-2, winners of four straight, the Giants found a way. Even if it wasn't pretty. The 23-point lead that took 17 minutes to build evaporated in 24 minutes. Yet they took a 26-24 lead on a Lawrence Tynes field goal. And when the Cowboys drove to the Giants' 48 in the fourth quarter, it was safety Stevie Brown who knocked the ball from Jones' grasp to set up another field goal, giving New York a five-point lead with 3:31 left.






What transpired next was surreal.

After driving from his own 22 with five completions, Romo faced second-and-1 from the 19 with 1:23 left. The result? Two incompletions and a forced interception. Asked about the Cowboys calling three straight pass plays despite needing just 1 yard for a first down, Romo said that, at least on third down, the coverage dictated a pass.

Yet Rob Ryan's defense rose up to make a stop, giving Romo the ball back with 44 seconds left. Six plays later, on second-and-6 from the Giants' 37, Romo found Bryant in the end zone for the game-winning score. Or so it seemed. Instead, "My heart just dropped," Bryant said.

In the end, the Giants went on to keep Dallas out of the end zone on three straight plays over 10 excruciatingly long seconds to secure the win. Of course they did. Coughlin, Manning and company always do.

"We're fighters," Coughlin said, "and we've been through a lot of big games. Sometimes, it comes out a little bit different than we would have liked to design it. But we've very pleased to leave here 6-2."

******

What else is going on? Here is a rundown:

The maturity (and inevitability) of Michael Vick

The Philadelphia Eagles have more than reached a crossroads. It's more like a ditch, and they need to climb their way out. But will quarterback Michael Vick be the one leading them?

The way Vick sounded after the gross 30-17 home loss to the Atlanta Falcons, he doesn't believe he will. With Nick Foles waiting, and coach Andy Reid saying he'll look at everything -- and with Reid's job on the line this season -- a quarterback change wouldn't be surprising.

Darlington: Are Eagles lost?
A dejected Michael Vick talked like Philly had been defeated by more than the Falcons on Sunday, Jeff Darlington writes. More ...
I'm struck by two things: Vick's maturity and the air of inevitability surrounding this decision.

Speaking to reporters, Vick said, "Obviously, (Reid) is thinking about making a change at quarterback. If he makes that decision, I support it."

Later, in a conversation with Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia's Reuben Frank, Vick sounded resigned to his fate. He sounded defeated. "I would love to stay in there and finish what I started. It would mean the world to me. But, hey, that's not my decision right now."

If Vick is eventually replaced in Philadelphia, his tenure will have ended with mixed reviews. He did resurrect his career. He did extend Reid's lifeline. Yet he'd also be leaving us wondering just how good he really is. One question raised to me on Twitter: Is he a modern-day Allen Iverson, a magician whose magic has simply disappeared with age?

The class with which Vick handled an incredibly difficult situation -- even if he created the situation with his play -- won't be forgotten. Vick could be blaming a lot of different people: his defense, his offensive line. But he's not. He's taking it like a man. That's impressive.

Pat Shurmur is coachin' 'em up

When Jimmy Haslam bought the Cleveland Browns, many of us assumed he'd clean house. President Mike Holmgren already is on his way out, and general manager Tom Heckert is pessimistic about his chances of sticking around. It seemed likely that coach Pat Shurmur would be out, too. After all, he was a fledgling coach who won just four games last year and, as of three weeks ago, none this season.






Yet when Haslam and Shurmur sat down before the NFL Fall Meeting in Chicago, Haslam told his young coach, "We have a lot of football left to play." He insisted no decision had been made and that he would do everything possible to "support Pat and his coaches and his team for the balance of the season."

Haslam seemed earnest. And if this keeps going, Shurmur just might have a shot. The Browns earned their first win of 2012 by beating the Cincinnati Bengals a few days before Haslam officially took over. Then, a gritty 7-6 victory over the San Diego Chargers on Sunday took them to 2-1 in their last three.

The way they've done it is what's been most impressive. Holding the Chargers' offense to two field goals. Getting 122 rushing yards from a first-round draft pick (Trent Richardson). Winning in the kind of elements that are prevalent in Cleveland. Thwarting Philip Rivers right at the end.

Few teams are as talent-deficient as the Browns, but the way they're playing is what Haslam will evaluate. Things are looking up for Shurmur.

The Chiefs are epically bad

When the season began, the Kansas City Chiefs were everyone's sleeper team to win the AFC West. Or, at least, mine. Yeah ... that's not looking so hot. In reality, Kansas City has been stunningly bad. So bad, it makes you wonder how on earth they could be this bad.






According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the Chiefs are the first team since 1940 to complete seven games without ever having led in regulation. What are the odds?

Sunday's 26-16 loss to the archrival Oakland Raiders had to be a crushing blow for those who believe this team is worth saving. Of all teams, did it have to be Oakland? Sure, as quarterback Matt Cassel said, "There is a lot of football season left." But not that much. And is there any sign of hope?

There really isn't anywhere the Chiefs can turn. Quarterback controversy? Eh. Both Cassel and Brady Quinn have struggled, and Quinn was knocked out with an injury Sunday. The offense is turning the ball over at a record rate; the defense isn't doing it enough.

Think about this point made by the Kansas City Star's Sam Mellinger: "The Royals haven't played in 25 days, finished their season like dogs, and still have two wins since the Chiefs' last victory." I don't really have an answer. But in that regime, everything must be questioned.

Some rapid-fire takes:






» How old is DeAngelo Hall? Five? I get that he's frustrated, but he wasn't even tossed in a rage. He took off his helmet, paused and then cursed out the official. A premeditated cursing. Classless. In my view, a suspension is warranted for the Washington Redskins corner.

» I mentioned on Sunday morning that teams are interested in Seahawks receiver Braylon Edwards, and it does make sense if Seattle would be willing to deal the veteran. He's helping the Seahawks in just a marginal way (eight catches for 74 yards and a touchdown), he could adapt to any system and Seattle could gain some value. A trade might not be a bad idea.

» The New York Jets' 30-9 loss to the Miami Dolphins was a disaster on all levels, but special-teams woes were the most glaring. Miami was the first team to block a field goal, block a punt and recover an on-side kick in a game, according to ESPN Stats and Information. Blame special teams coach Mike Westhoff? No. Special teams is a measure of depth, and the Jets are struggling to compete with the back half of their roster. Been an issue all year.

» There was something beautiful about the Chicago Bears' 23-22 win over the Carolina Panthers. Bears quarterback Jay Cutler was bad, getting booed early on. The offense managed to score just seven points in the first three quarters of play. It took Carolina's Steve Smith falling down to give Chicago the lead. If you're going to have a special season, you need W's when you play poorly, not L's.

» On the other hand, that was a pretty stellar effort from Cam Newton in a losing cause. Three hundred and fifty-one total yards against one of the NFL's nastiest defenses? Strong. If only the Panthers could put it together ...

» Back in early October, Green Bay Packers receiver Donald Driver told me that as long as the team is winning, he's OK with a diminished role. He added that when he does get the chance, "I'll be ready." He was on Sunday. Without Jordy Nelson, without Greg Jennings, the 37-year-old Driver scored a 4-yard touchdown to help seal the win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. He wasn't lying.






» Who knew Indianapolis Colts running back Vick Ballard could fly?

» With Matt Hasselbeck assuming the Tennessee Titans' starting role the past few games, it's easy to forget he was a backup before second-year quarterback Jake Locker was injured. Hasselbeck is the NFL's best backup quarterback. Second-best? That's Matt Moore, who came into his own last season. With rookie Ryan Tannehill ailing, Moore went a solid 11-for-19 for 131 yards and a touchdown in an easy win.

» Apparently, the game begins in the fourth quarter for Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford.

» Jacquizz Rodgers, a promising fifth-round pick from a year ago, had just 31 carries before Sunday. Yet the Atlanta Falcons went to him eight times for 60 yards, including an impressive 43-yard scamper that masked the team's issues on the ground. Rodgers broke two tackles behind the line of scrimmage to earn his long run. Take that away, and Atlanta averaged 2.4 yards per rush. Matt Ryan has been great, but I still wonder if this team is too one-dimensional.

» After watching Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jonathan Dwyer on Sunday, it's amazing to think he had to scratch and claw just to make the roster in 2010 and 2011. Kudos to the Steelers for keeping him, as he now has back-to-back 100-yard games. But how was this minivan able to hide on the bench for two years?






» I don't blame Redskins offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan for wanting Robert Griffin III to be involved in everything. But sending him out for a pass -- only to watch him get trucked -- is too much. Even if that play's worth two touchdowns, is it really worth risking your quarterback of the future?

» Just when you start to wonder about the New England Patriots' offense, they drop 45 on your head. I think that Tom Brady character will be just fine.

» Finally -- maybe -- the Oakland Raiders are finding room for Darren McFadden. He's still racking up the negative yardage, but if he can bust a few like that 21-yarder late in the fourth quarter Sunday, it will be enough. He can keep that offense on the field. At 3-4, the Raiders are still kicking.

» If Sean Payton were coaching the New Orleans Saints, would his defense have allowed 530 yards to the Denver Broncos? No way in the world. He coached the entire team, not just the offense. Yes, the Saints have defensive personnel issues. But Payton's teams never looked like this.

]]><![CDATA[Week 6 injury roundup: DeMarco Murray sprains foot]]>Mon, 15 Oct 2012 09:18:25 GMThttp://2012oakleyfastjacketonline.weebly.com/news/week-6-injury-roundup-demarco-murray-sprains-foot

It was a crazy week in the NFL. Unfortunately, there also was a spate of injuries that will have repercussions for weeks to come. Let's break it all down.

1. Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray sprained his foot during a 31-29 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. He'll have an MRI on Monday. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said he had "no idea" if Murray would play next week. Cornerback Morris Claiborne also left the game but was able to return. Running back Felix Jones left the game at one point with cramps.

On NFL Network
NFL Replay
will re-air the Baltimore Ravens' 31-29 win over the Dallas  Cowboys in Week 6 on Tuesday, Oct. 16
at 8 p.m. ET.

» NFL Network schedule

2. It's believed that Ravens cornerback LarDarius Webb tore his anterior cruciate ligament against the Cowboys. Jeff Darlington of NFL.com and NFL Network reports the Ravens fear linebacker Ray Lewis tore his triceps. The severity is unclear. Ravens defensive tackle Haloti Ngata also will undergo an MRI on his knee. He was able to return to the game after suffering the injury.

3. Cleveland Browns running back Trent Richardson injured his "flank" during a 34-24 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. That's a new one. Richardson says he'll be ready to play next week, but he'll have an MRI on Monday to make sure.

4. New England Patriots wide receiver Brandon Lloyd hurt his shoulder while diving for a pass during the final drive of a 24-23 loss to the Seattle Sehawks. He didn't return.

5. Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb took a shot to the ribs late in a 19-16 loss to the Buffalo Bills. He didn't return. Kolb hurt his ribs in the preseason, too. John Skelton finished out the game under center. The Cardinals have managed to have one healthy quarterback at all times, which will have to suffice. Their safety, Kerry Rhodes, also left with a non-contact injury and didn't return.

SEAHAWKS AT 49ERS
• Thursday, Oct. 18, 8 p.m. ET
• Watch on NFL Network and NFL.com/LIVE

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6. Green Bay Packers linebacker D.J. Smith left on a cart Sunday night after taking a nasty hit to the knee against the Houston Texans. It didn't look promising. Smith was Desmond Bishop's replacement after Bishop was lost for the season.

7. San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Joe Staley suffered a concussion during a 26-3 loss to the New York Giants and didn't return.

8. Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz appears to be fine after banging his knee against the 49ers.

9. New York Jets running back Bilal Powell might have suffered a dislocated shoulder during a 35-9 win over the Indianapolis Colts, according to NFL.com and NFL Network's Kim Jones. Fellow backup running back Joe McKnight is expected to have an MRI on his injured ankle.

10. Philadelphia Eagles running back LeSean McCoy is fine after being shaken up during a 26-23 overtime loss to the Detroit Lions.

11. Washington Redskins wide receiver Pierre Garcon was inactive during his team's 38-26 victory over the Minnesota Vikings with his foot injury. This could take a while longer.

]]><![CDATA[RG3's 76-yard scamper seals Washington Redskins' win over Minnesota Vikings]]>Mon, 15 Oct 2012 09:06:59 GMThttp://2012oakleyfastjacketonline.weebly.com/news/rg3s-76-yard-scamper-seals-washington-redskins-win-over-minnesota-vikings

LANDOVER, Md. -- Robert Griffin III's concussion was on everyone's mind as he dropped back on a third-and-6 with the Washington Redskins trying to put the game away.

"I took off running and got to the sideline, thought about running out of bounds -- because everyone's been telling me that lately," he said with a big smile. "And I felt like I had the guy outflanked, and then I just took off running. And the rest is history."

Not only did his 76-yard touchdown run put the game away, it also squashed any thoughts that his first serious shot to the head as a pro was going to stop RG3 from being RG3.

The longest scoring run by an NFL quarterback in 16 years was part of his 138-yard rushing performance in the Redskins' 38-26 win over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.

Most rushing yards by a QB in an NFL game
Yds
Player
Team
Opponent
Year
173
2002
166
2006
150
Tobin Rote
1951
141
2003
138
2012
136
George Taliaferro
1953
131
Billy Kilmer
1961
131
Tobin Rote
1951
130
2010

"When Robert gets in top gear, it's like watching a track meet," receiver Santana Moss said. "And he ain't coming in second."

The former college hurdler ran for two scores and threw for another as Washington (3-3) snapped its eight-game home losing streak.

The perennial doormats of the NFC East are becoming relevant again because they finally have a quarterback -- a No. 2 overall draft pick able to use his arm and legs to pick apart the Vikings (4-2), who had won three straight and hadn't allowed more than 23 points this season.

After falling behind 9-0 early and being outgained 148-7, Washington responded with 24 straight points during a stretch in which it outgained Minnesota, 225-14.

The Vikings made a game of it with two fourth-quarter touchdowns and were starting to use their timeouts, hoping to get the ball back, when Griffin faced third-and-6 at his own 24.

Griffin left the previous week's loss to the Atlanta Falcons after being hit in the head while trying to get some extra yards on a scramble.

He passed the NFL's post-concussion tests and was cleared to play Sunday, but coaches and teammates hoped that he had learned a lesson about when to keep running and when to slide -- or get out of bounds.

Accordingly, Griffin's second-by-second description of his teammates' reaction to his touchdown run was priceless.

"I could see guys telling me I got the first, so they were saying, 'Stay inbounds,' " Griffin said. "And then I was running like, 'I think I can get a little more.' And it all went from 'Stop, stay inbounds,' to 'Go! Go for the touchdown!' "

Redskins head trainer Larry Hess ran alongside down the sideline -- "the same 40 I was running," Griffin said. Tight ends coach Sean McVay told Griffin he felt "a gust of wind" as the rookie ran past. Fullback Darrel Young was chanting "R-G-3!" along with the crowd.

Griffin didn't stop until he took a seat on the front row, performing what is quickly becoming known as the "Landover Leap." He said he stayed longer than planned because the fans wouldn't let him leave.

It was the longest touchdown run by an NFL quarterback since Kordell Stewart dashed 80 yards for the Pittsburgh Steelers against the Carolina Panthers in 1996. Griffin's rushing total was the fifth highest for a quarterback in NFL history, and the most since Michael Vick ran for 166 in 2006.

From NFLShop.com:
Robert Griffin III gear.

Griffin said he reined himself in somewhat in the wake of his concussion -- he was cheered as he scrambled harmlessly out of bounds on a first-down play in the first quarter -- but he again ran some option and finished with 13 carries, including six Redskins offensive plays in a row that included a 7-yard score.

"You try to play smart," Griffin said. "But stay aggressive."

He also drew penalties, one on a horse-collar tackle and another for roughing-the-passer, one that was perhaps aided by the acting skills Griffin has acquired from doing commercials. The official didn't throw the flag for Erin Henderson's slight shove until Griffin was on the ground making an appeal.

"He hit me good," said Griffin, laughing his way through the description. "Come on, man. It wasn't like a basketball flop. I sold it pretty well. I mean, the ball was clearly gone, guys. It was a great job of me and the ref being on the same page."

He can throw, as well. Griffin completed 17 of 22 passes with one touchdown and only his second interception of the season.

The Vikings, meanwhile, paid the price for promising possessions that fell four points short. Drives that got inside the 10 yielded field goals of 20, 27 and 27 yards in the first quarter.

"We've got to turn those 3s into 7," said Adrian Peterson, who ran for 79 yards but at times was limping on his sprained left ankle. "Today, it finally came back and bit us."

Notes: Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder went 35 for 52 for 352 yards with two TDs and two interceptions. He was also credited with a lost fumble when the ball slipped out of his hand to linebacker Lorenzo Alexander. ... Former Vikings safety Madieu Williams returned an interception 24 yards for Washington's fourth defensive touchdown of the year. The Redskins scored only 43 points off turnovers last year; they already have 49 this year. ... Kicker Kai Forbath, making his Redskins debut, made a 50-yarder in his only FG attempt. ... Redskins safety Jordan Pugh left the fourth quarter twice with a head injury. The Redskins say he was cleared to return after the first injury, then was diagnosed with a concussion after the second one.

]]><![CDATA[Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams' suspension increased by NFL]]>Sat, 06 Oct 2012 02:22:29 GMThttp://2012oakleyfastjacketonline.weebly.com/news/broncos-linebacker-dj-williams-suspension-increased-by-nfl

The Denver Broncos will be without linebacker D.J. Williams until mid-November after the NFL added three games to his suspension Friday.

Williams was punished for violating the NFL's substance-abuse policy following his August conviction of driving while ability impaired.

Breer: The men behind the rivalry
Tom Brady-Peyton Manning is the NFL's version of Magic-Bird. Albert Breer spoke with the fathers of both quarterbacks. More ...

Williams already was serving a six-game suspension to start the season for violating the league's banned-substances policy -- such as performance enhancing drugs -- after the NFL said he supplied a "non-human" urine sample during a drug test.

Williams, the Broncos' leading tackler in four of the last five seasons, won't be eligible to return to the team until Nov. 12.

One Broncos source told NFL Network reporter Michelle Beisner that they "knew additional discipline was a possibility and had been preparing for an extended suspension."

Williams originally was scheduled to return in time for the Oct. 28 game against the New Orleans Saints, but he'll now miss that game and road contests at Cincinnati and Carolina, too.

The Broncos were flying to New England for their Sunday game against the Patriots when the new suspension was handed down.

Wesley Woodyard and Keith Brooking have shared snaps at weakside linebacker in Williams' absence.

Williams met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in New York last month in hopes of avoiding further punishment from the league following his latest run-in, a case that stemmed from a drunken driving arrest nearly two years ago.

Jeremiah: Key matchups in Week 5
Daniel Jeremiah provides the six biggest matchups on this weekend's docket, including Drew Brees vs. Philip Rivers. More ...

Williams originally was charged with driving under the influence, but a jury returned a conviction on a lesser charge. Williams also was convicted of driving without headlights, the offense that prompted police to stop him near downtown Denver about 3 a.m. on Nov. 12, 2010.

Prosecutors said Williams failed roadside sobriety tests during his traffic stop and refused to take a blood test to determine his possible alcohol level. He was taken to a detox facility.

The Broncos stripped Williams of his captaincy shortly after his arrest -- the second time he'd been detained for suspicion of drunken driving. In 2005, he pleaded guilty to impaired driving.

Williams has led the Broncos in tackles five times in his eight years since joining the NFL as Denver's top draft pick in 2004 out of the University of Miami.

Article from: http://www.nfl.com/news
]]><![CDATA[NFL fantasy football: Week 5 matchups]]>Sat, 06 Oct 2012 02:20:25 GMThttp://2012oakleyfastjacketonline.weebly.com/news/nfl-fantasy-football-week-5-matchups

The bye weeks are in full swing and taking out a few quality fantasy options like Miles Austin, Calvin Johnson and Matthew Stafford. Never fear, since there are a handful of games that could be bonanzas for fantasy owners. But enough chatter ... time to break 'em all down.

Byes: Cowboys, Lions, Raiders, Buccaneers

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Dolphins fantasy points scored
11.36
27.08
20.58
5.83
6.00
8.00
Bengals fantasy points allowed
19.98
22.20
19.23
9.85
9.00
9.25
Bengals fantasy points scored
19.01
14.58
35.68
6.83
8.50
7.75
Dolphins fantasy points allowed
16.54
14.23
27.40
7.43
9.00
8.75

Analysis:  Ryan Tannehill exploded last week against the Arizona Cardinals and should enjoy more success this week versus the Bengals. Look for Anthony Fasano to be a factor for the first time this season, while Reggie Bush bounces back from a mediocre game last week. A.J. Green and Andrew Hawkins are poised for good days against Miami's secondary, even if Andy Dalton has an up-and-down day under center.

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Packers fantasy points scored
17.42
10.55
28.70
8.68
6.25
8.00
Colts fantasy points allowed
15.57
24.00
26.30
4.00
10.33
6.33
Colts fantasy points scored
12.96
9.15
20.18
4.90
5.25
3.50
Packers fantasy points allowed
16.63
15.73
23.13
7.28
7.25
7.25

Analysis: Look for Cedric Benson to have a solid day running the football versus the Colts front seven. Same goes for Jordy Nelson and James Jones working against Indy's back four. It should even be a nice day for Mason Crosby, who's been underwhelming so far this season. Andrew Luck will hold his own in a showdown against Aaron Rodgers, while Donald Brown is in position for his best game of the season. This one could be a shootout.

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Ravens fantasy points scored
19.82
22.58
28.43
8.95
10.25
10.25
Chiefs fantasy points allowed
21.19
23.75
20.10
9.18
10.00
14.25
Chiefs fantasy points scored
13.26
25.58
21.18
5.03
8.00
1.25
Ravens fantasy points allowed
14.27
17.48
23.60
7.75
10.25
3.25

Analysis:Joe Flacco is a matchup-based quarterback ... and this is a great matchup. He could have at least two touchdown passes in this one. Ray Rice will have his way with an awful Chiefs defense, while Torrey Smith could find the end zone. Look for Baltimore's defense to get healthy against Matt Cassel. Jamaal Charles will be slowed a little bit this week, but Dwayne Bowe should have another quality fantasy outing. Kansas City could once again be in position to score plenty of garbage point.

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Browns fantasy points scored
10.25
17.13
17.85
4.80
9.75
9.00
Giants fantasy points allowed
16.97
14.10
26.80
5.53
8.00
3.75
Giants fantasy points scored
18.32
17.80
29.70
10.98
10.75
7.00
Browns fantasy points allowed
20.24
15.88
32.58
5.00
6.50
11.25

Analysis: The Giants defense should keep Trent Richardson relatively quiet, but Brandon Weeden could have one of his better performances if his offensive line can keep the pass rush at bay. If Greg Little can hold onto the ball, he could be a good flex play in deeper leagues this week. Eli Manning and his receivers -- especially Victor Cruz -- should have a field day versus the Browns defense, though it could be another silent week for Martellus Bennett.

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Eagles fantasy points scored
15.71
13.53
22.03
10.43
7.50
6.50
Steelers fantasy points allowed
17.00
14.07
21.77
8.60
6.33
7.00
Steelers fantasy points scored
16.84
8.13
21.10
9.40
5.75
3.50
Eagles fantasy points allowed
11.34
12.23
22.03
4.93
9.75
14.00

Analysis: The turnover-prone Eagles will have extra worries this week with Troy Polamalu and James Harrison back in action for the Steelers. Still, DeSean Jackson should continue his recent run of success. Rashard Mendenhall should put up quality numbers in his first action of the 2012 season, while Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown once again post solid outings. Pittsburgh's defense should intercept Michael Vick at least once and should rack up a few sacks as well.

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Falcons fantasy points scored
24.32
19.05
26.78
11.30
10.00
10.00
Redskins fantasy points allowed
21.11
13.60
37.98
10.45
9.75
4.00
Redskins fantasy points scored
25.83
18.33
26.23
5.88
8.25
7.75
Falcons fantasy points allowed
14.55
19.50
16.68
7.95
4.00
2.50

Analysis: In a matchup of two of the highest-scoring fantasy quarterbacks, it should be another good day for Matt Ryan and the Falcons' pass-catchers. If there was ever a week for Roddy White, Julio Jones and Tony Gonzalez to go wild together, this is it. After two good weeks, beware of Michael Turner this week. It'll be tough sledding for Robert Griffin III this week, but he should be able to get Fred Davis more involved. Alfred Morris continues to be a quality start in nearly all formats.

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Seahawks fantasy points scored
9.44
18.30
13.10
5.53
7.00
9.50
Panthers fantasy points allowed
17.69
27.38
18.03
8.70
12.75
8.25
Panthers fantasy points scored
20.27
16.55
19.05
10.53
3.50
5.00
Seahawks fantasy points allowed
9.98
10.78
19.25
5.18
8.00
6.00

Analysis:  Marshawn Lynch will once again crank up Beastmode with a lackluster Panthers rush defense on tap. Russell Wilson could have one of his better starts, but is probably best left on your bench if you have other options. This is a good week to take a look at Steven Hauschka if you have a kicker on a bye. Cam Newton isn't a great option against the Seahawks this week and could be picked off a couple of times. If there's a Panther to consider this week, it's probably Steve Smith. Even then, temper your expectations.

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Bears fantasy points scored
11.32
18.43
22.68
4.78
9.50
17.50
Jaguars fantasy points allowed
15.55
26.75
19.53
5.98
9.75
7.00
Jaguars fantasy points scored
11.80
16.60
13.48
5.40
6.00
2.75
Bears fantasy points allowed
9.69
10.98
21.63
9.58
7.00
8.50

Analysis:  Matt Forte returned to the field last week. He should return to the top of the fantasy leaderboards this week versus the Jaguars. Look for Jay Cutler and Brandon Marshall to have a mild repeat of their multiple connections from Week 4. Chicago's defense should harass Blaine Gabbert into a couple of turnovers. It could be a slow afternoon for Maurice Jones-Drew trying to run against Chicago. Without Laurent Robinson, there aren't any reliable targets for Gabbert to throw to. There aren't many Jaguars worth starting in Week 5.

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Titans fantasy points scored
14.42
7.80
19.80
11.45
6.75
4.75
Vikings fantasy points allowed
17.25
9.80
19.53
9.70
9.00
4.50
Vikings fantasy points scored
13.89
14.75
16.85
8.13
10.50
10.50
Titans fantasy points allowed
22.20
24.58
20.38
20.03
10.75
11.25

Analysis:  Chris Johnson's recent success ends this week against the Vikings. Matt Hasselbeck will have his struggles, but he should find Nate Washington on a few occasions. Consider Washington a deep league flex option. If you have any Vikings on your roster, give them a serious look this week. Of course, you're starting Adrian Peterson, but Christian Ponder, Percy Harvin and Kyle Rudolph are all quality starts against the Titans defense.

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Broncos fantasy points scored
18.62
20.78
26.18
9.50
9.00
7.75
Patriots fantasy points allowed
19.14
12.45
25.75
10.88
6.50
2.25
Patriots fantasy points scored
20.55
27.40
21.45
14.45
12.00
9.25
Broncos fantasy points allowed
17.14
12.00
22.83
9.95
7.25
4.50

Analysis:  Peyton Manning and Tom Brady renew their rivalry and both quarterbacks should star against the opposition's defense. Conversely, both teams could find it hard to run the football this week. Exercise caution when starting Willis McGahee or Stevan Ridley. Wes Welker is once again a quality start -- especially in PPR leagues. Look for Jacob Tamme to have a nice game against New England's defense.

Sunday, Oct. 7
QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
Bills fantasy points scored
18.94
23.28
21.95
10.50
4.75
6.50
49ers fantasy points allowed
15.18
7.78
16.33
9.18
5.75
7.00
49ers fantasy points scored
16.47
18.83
14.95
11.90
10.00
10.25
Bills fantasy points allowed
20.44
25.20
28.10
7.50
7.25
8.00

Analysis: We've warned fantasy owners to avoid starting anyone against the 49ers defense all season. That doesn't change this week. Whether it's Fred Jackson or C.J. Spiller, consider any other options if you have them. If there's a Bill to consider, it's

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