NFL FanHouse

Chargers Nearly Drive Broncos to Blows

Nancy Gay — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:24:00 EST

Filed under: Broncos, Chargers, AFC West, NFL Injuries, NFL Quarterbacks

DENVER -- Four consecutive losses have dropped the once impressive Denver Broncos into the middle of the AFC pack.

The San Diego Chargers (7-3) all but ensured they will win the AFC West with a 32-3 rout Sunday at Denver's Invesco Field, and only the second-quarter emergence of injured Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton off the bench sparked any life in the disillusioned home team.

Hobbling on a badly sprained left ankle, Orton was a better option than struggling backup Chris Simms, who started the game but almost immediately lost the ball on a sack and fumble and ultimately failed to move Denver's offense effectively.

With 4:10 left before halftime, Broncos first-year coach Josh McDaniels gave Simms the hook and called on Orton. The Invesco Field crowd roared its approval. Orton, who finished with 171 yards and an interception on 15 of 29 passing, fired off back-to-back long completions to Brandon Marshall and Jabar Gaffney, setting up a Denver 1st-and-goal at the 4-yard line.

Then ... disaster. And a potential rift to the once-chummy Broncos' team chemistry came out of the ensuing goal line pileup.

With the Broncos trailing 13-0, rookie running back Knowshon Moreno took a handoff from Orton and gained three yards before losing the football in a collision with Chargers defensive end Jacques Cesaire.

The turnover, which came just ahead of the two-minute warning, was reviewed and upheld. With that, Marshall -- the Broncos' volatile playmaker -- put his facemask directly into Moreno's facemask and let the rookie have it verbally.

Moreno physically pushed back, and two of the Broncos' most explosive players nearly came to blows. Afterward, both of them called it a momentary exchange of heated emotion. But neither offered an apology.

"I don't regret anything. This is a playoff game," said Marshall, who approached this contest that would break a first-place tie between the two division rivals as such. "This is probably the most frustrating game I've ever played in. I approached it like it was a playoff game. I'm frustrated that we lost.

"I think everybody needs to look at themselves first. I'm going back and looking at film from last year, see if I've changed anything, and go from there."

The Moreno fumble? "Those are plays that kill drives," Marshall said.

And what did Marshall tell Moreno when the two were facemask-to-faceask?

"That we need to pick it up."

Said Moreno, "Nothing big. But everyone was heated. Nothing long-term. Just heat of the moment."

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But Marshall, Denver's leading receiver who caught only three passes for 26 yards Sunday, admitted he was disappointed with what he felt was a lack of fire and passion from many of his Broncos teammates as San Diego got four field goals from Nate Kaeding and took further command in the second half.

"There were guys on the sideline that weren't angry, who didn't have a lot of emotion. And they need to look at themselves in the mirror," Marshall said. "This is a game where you've got to have it. And none of us can make any terrible plays."

The Broncos (6-4) would go on to make a bunch of them - three turnovers (two fumbles and the Orton interception) and countless offside and false start penalties that gave the surging Chargers, winners of five in a row, more momentum in an already lopsided affair.

Orton, who didn't practice all week after injuring his left ankle in Week 10's loss to the Redskins, came in Sunday listed as the No. 2 quarterback. Simms had replaced Orton at Washington but looked absolutely lousy doing it.

Simms, who got his first NFL start since rupturing his spleen in a 2006 game during his Tampa Bay Buccaneers' days, didn't fare much better Sunday, completing 2 of 4 passes for 10 yards and losing that first-quarter fumble at the Chargers 17-yard line on the Broncos' opening drive, following an 11-yard sack. San Diego then drove 69 yards to set up a 2-yard Philip Rivers touchdown pass to wide receiver Legedu Naanee.

Despite not being able to ignite the Broncos' offense, Simms admitted he was surprised to be yanked so soon.

"I was looking forward to [the start] and I felt comfortable out there," Simms said. "I know it was a little rocky start, but it's the NFL -- sometimes it does go rocky for a little bit. But I'll be OK and I'll continue to make myself better."

With Denver facing a short week before a Thanksgiving home game against the New York Giants, McDaniels said he had no regrets going with Simms as the starter -- and pulling him out as early as he did to go back to an injured Orton. Sensing a need to move out of the pocket-passing scheme with Simms and going to a shotgun offense with Orton went into McDaniels' decision making.

"We did a lot of decent things there early," said McDaniels, whose skidding team beat the Chargers 34-23 in San Diego on Oct. 19 and once held a 3 1/2-game lead in the AFC West. "Any time you get down there in the red zone four times and come away with three points ... I think we turned over the ball twice down there.

"Those are plays that if you make them, then you know you end up with points, maybe touchdowns and if you don't, obviously you have no momentum and you give away an opportunity."

So is Orton a Superman, or just a guy doing what the coach told him to do?

Adrenaline was a hell of a painkiller, Orton said.

"It helps. You forget about [the pain]," he said. "Guys did a good job of protecting me. I'm just thankful I didn't have to have anything set me back even more."

Others on the field could only admire Orton for his toughness, and respect his ability to make plays despite being in obvious pain at times.

"Kyle, he's very intelligent. He's really talented," Marshall said. "And he's our quarterback."

"I thought he played really well -- he obviously gave them a boost there for awhile," said Rivers, who completed 17 of 22 passes for a season-low 145 yards and one touchdown. "I told him, 'Hey, get healthy and get your guys going.' "

Chargers Nearly Drive Broncos to Blows originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:24:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tenacious Raiders Stun Bengals Late

Matt Snyder — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 20:20:00 EST

Filed under: Bengals, Raiders, AFC North, AFC West

After a physical beatdown of the reigning Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers, the Cincinnati Bengals were riding high. "Just look at their next three opponents," observers proclaimed -- with good reason, as the Bengals were staring at the Raiders, Browns and Lions in succession on their schedule. The three teams had combined for four wins and 23 losses before Week 10, while the Bengals had won seven of eight since their fluky Week 1 loss.

Facing Bruce Gradkowski and the Raiders offense surely shouldn't be a problem for a team that held Ben Roethlisberger in check, right? Well, that's why they play the games.

Oakland scored 10 points in the final minute of regulation to upset Cincinnati, 20-17.

The Bengals jumped on top 14-0 behind two Carson Palmer rushing (that's not a typo) touchdowns.

This is where you have to give Oakland credit. Aside from the most devout of Raider Nation, no one thought Cincy would lose this game. After coughing up two touchdowns, the Raiders could have rolled over and taken the easy way out. Instead, they fought and they fought harder than they have all season.

Behind four takeaways -- seriously, Carson, there's a reason no one ever throws at Nnamdi Asomugha -- the Raiders rallied back. Gradkowski didn't light up the stat sheet, but he found a way to claw his team back in the game. He even shook off a mistake of his own to rebound with a game-tying drive.

With 6:08 left in the game and his Raiders trailing by a touchdown, Gradkowski had a chance to complete Oakland's rally after taking over possession in Cincinnati territory. Instead, he threw an interception on the first play of the drive. But his defense picked him up by forcing the Bengals to punt.

Gradkowski must have wanted more of a challenge. The second time around, he had just 2:12 to work with and the Raiders needed to move 80 yards. They did just that, 79 of those yards coming from Gradkowski's arm. He worked beautifully on the drive and found Louis Murphy in the end zone to tie the game with 33 seconds left.

The game appeared destined for overtime until Andre Caldwell fumbled the ball back to the Raiders on the ensuing kickoff. Already well within the strong-legged Sebastian Janikowski's range, the Raiders kneeled three times and let the Polish placekicker bring the win home. He connected on the 33-yard field goal and the Raiders had upset the Bengals, 20-17.

The Raiders got a nice game from tight end Zach Miller, who caught five passes for 65 yards and a touchdown, but the story was their ball-hawking defense and special teams giving the offense multiple opportunities to win the game.

The Bengals were without leading rusher Cedric Benson, but rookie Bernard Scott filled in admirably with 119 yards on 21 carries (recent addition Larry Johnson had two carries for a measly five yards). Again, though, the major theme here was Cincinnati's inability to hold on to the football -- you can't turn it over four times on the road and expect to beat anyone.

The Raiders will look to keep things going when they travel to Dallas for a Thanksgiving bout with the Cowboys.

The Bengals actually didn't lose any ground in the standings, as every single AFC North team lost on Sunday. So they received a gift. They'll count their blessings and look to take care of business against the Browns at home next Sunday.

Tenacious Raiders Stun Bengals Late originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 20:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Unexpected Gift Rejuvenates Tomlinson

Nancy Gay — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 22:00:00 EST

Filed under: Broncos, Chargers, Eagles, AFC West

SAN DIEGO -- LaDainian Tomlinson's blessings simply flowed on Sunday. Two hours before his San Diego Chargers claimed a share of first place in the AFC West with a 31-23 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, the NFL's No. 3 all-time touchdown king received a gift from his wife, LaTorsha.

Tomlinson found it in front of his locker at Qualcomm Stadium, a decorative purple bag -- "TCU colors," he explained later -- tied with a bow. The attached note implored "Please Open Immediately - LaTorsha." Inside was a box, and what it contained was a pregnancy test. A positive test.

"My wife is pregnant," an emotional Tomlinson announced on a day when one of the NFL's greatest running backs reached two significant milestones: His season-high 96 yards on 24 carries pushed him past Thurman Thomas and Franco Harris for 12th place on the NFL's all-time rushing list with 12,145 yards.

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And Tomlinson's two rushing touchdowns gave him 146 for his career, surpassing Marcus Allen for sole possession of third place on the all-time list.

Tomlinson was humbled by and appreciative of his football achievements Sunday -- not to mention the 6-3 Chargers' return to relevancy thanks to a four-game winning streak and quarterback Philip Rivers' career-best 80 percent completion percentage. Rivers was 20 of 25 for 231 yards and two touchdowns.

Tomlinson was also thankful San Diego will get a chance to break that division deadlock with the Denver Broncos -- losers of three in a row -- next Sunday at Invesco Field, and gratified that he was a key part of a victory that confirmed Rivers wasn't out of his mind a month ago when he proclaimed his San Diego team would erase Denver's seemingly insurmountable 3 1/2-game lead in the AFC West.

But that purple bag ...

"It was weird. I thought it was going to be a necklace or something," said Tomlinson, grinning widely. "But it was a pregnancy test in there. It was pretty special.

"Years ago, we lost a child so we've been trying again. God works in mysterious ways, and it's a blessing we're pregnant again."

Tomlinson and his wife, who were college sweethearts, already had a name for that baby. She was a girl, due in June 2005. Mckiah Renee's ultrasound picture was so special, L.T. carried it around with him everywhere. The couple eagerly decorated her baby room.

But when Tomlinson returned home from Hawaii following the '05 Pro Bowl, complications with the pregnancy stole Mckiah away from LaDainian and LaTorsha, who had wanted her so badly.

Sunday's news that another baby is coming, after so much heartbreak, was more than motivation for Tomlinson's milestone day. It was like a guiding hand lifting him past Eagles tacklers, and erasing the doubts of anyone who thought the 30-year-old former NFL rushing champion was past his prime.

"It absolutely was," he said, "because there is a special thing about having a child and your wife being pregnant. I can't explain it, but it was."

Tomlinson called LaTorsha as soon as he left the field, just after San Diego's defense held off a fourth-quarter charge by Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb, who threw a pair of touchdown passes in the final period to pull Philadelphia (6-4) to within a score of the Chargers, 28-23, with 7:18 remaining.

"I said 'You're amazing,' " Tomlinson told his wife, who had held back the news for five days. "I actually cried for about five minutes."

How will Tomlinson process everything that happened to him Sunday -- the baby news, the career achievements, the important Chargers victory in which he played such a significant role?

"I don't know. I'm thankful. I'm thankful," he said. "I'm just so excited."

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Baby Boom in Sports

NFL star LaDainian Tomlinson is ready to be a father. Tomlinson's wife, LaTorsha, surprised him with a positive pregnancy test result before he carried the Chargers to a 31-23 victory over the Eagles. Click through to see photos of sports stars with their children.

Frederick M. Brown, Getty Images

Baby Boom in Sports

Frederick M. Brown, Getty Images

Roger Federer and his wife Mirka Vavrinec released a photo of their twin daughters Charlene Riva and Myla Rose. The twins were born July 23.

Federer Family/AP

Lindsay Davenport, pictured here with her son Jagger during the ASB Classic tournament in January 2008, recently gave birth to daughter Andrus Davenport Leach.

Michael Bradley, AFP/Getty Images

Seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong shared a picture of his new son, Max, on Twitter in early June.

Armstrong Family / AP

NBA star Kobe Bryant with his wife Vanessa and daughters Natalie and Gianna

Andrew D. Bernstein, NBAE via Getty Images

Tiger Woods poses with daughter Sam, wife Elin and new son, Charlie.

Dom Furore, Woods Family

Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Hines Ward with his son Jaden

Jonathan Ferrey, Getty Images

NBA star LeBron James with his son LeBron Jr.

David Liam Kyle, NBAE via Getty Images

Olympic swimmer Dara Torres and daughter Tessa

Al Messerschmidt, Getty Images

Softball superstar Jennie Finch with her son Ace

Christian Petersen, Getty Images

Unexpected Gift Rejuvenates Tomlinson originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 22:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bernard Pollard Accuses Chiefs of Trying To Have Him Blackballed

Knox Bardeen — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:33:00 EST

Filed under: Chiefs, AFC West

Bernard Pollard led the Kansas City Chiefs with 98 tackles in 2008, 13 more than his nearest competition. He also had the dubious distinction of being the player that ended Tom Brady's season before it really got started. But the defensive MVP of the Chiefs was a roster casualty in early September as Kansas City trimmed down to meet the 53-man requirement. Now Pollard is claiming that the Chiefs tried to blackball him from signing with any other NFL team.

"I'm not going to sit here and lie to you," he said, "I don't know why I was cut. I can't do anything but assume. I know what was said about me. The things they said about me weren't right and they know they weren't right."

Pollard went into more detail on the things he claims someone from the Chiefs said about him after he was released.

"I don't know who said them. The one thing that disappointed me - I'm not going to go into everything that was said because there were a lot of things that were said but it hurt me - it said I was argumentative and disrespectful to my teammates."

Pollard refutes the claims that he was bad to have in the locker room and goes on to say that had Herm Edwards not called around the league on his behalf, Pollard might not be playing right now.

He says he was unaware of any personality conflict between him and the new front office staff of the Chiefs. Pollard was also unable to pinpoint how he seemed to alienate the coaching staff, especially Todd Haley who Pollard accused of excessive cursing and showing signs of disrespect during practices.

Wildly spoken about was Pollard's deficiency with missing tackles while trying to go for the big play. Fans erroneously blamed him for missing more tackles then he made and trying, too hard, to live up to his nickname of "Bone-crusher".

But it made no sense for a young safety with as much talent and upside as Pollard has, to be cut -- even with the depth the Chiefs had at safety. And there's definitely a problem if the Chiefs did somehow try to keep Pollard from being able to hook up with another team somewhere down the line.

It's too early to tell if the 24-year-old Pollard will live up to his second-round draft status. But he's sure found new life in Houston. His 42 tackles is already good for third place on the Texans, even after missing the first three games of the season. He also picked off Peyton Manning twice last Sunday and had a season-high 12 tackles.

On Sunday, Kent Babb of the Kansas City Star published a statement on Twitter confirming that Pollard was a "bad, bad influence" in the locker room. But he also said he was a much better player than current Chiefs safety Mike Brown.

Name calling and finger-pointing aside, it looks as if the Chiefs loss of Pollard is Houston's gain. And the Kansas City secondary is truly the group that suffers the most from this debacle -- unless you consider their fans.

Bernard Pollard Accuses Chiefs of Trying To Have Him Blackballed originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:33:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Philip Rivers Redeems Self in 'Eli Bowl'

Matt Snyder — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:15:00 EST

Filed under: Chargers, Giants, AFC West, NFC East, NFL Quarterbacks

With 3:30 left in the game and his team trailing by three points, Philip Rivers had a chance.

He had a chance to win in New York with much of the nation watching. He had a chance to best Eli Manning, a man who refused to play for the Chargers and was eventually swapped for Rivers and another draft pick (which turned into Shawne Merriman). He had a chance to prove he was a winner, despite the fact that his team hasn't helped him win a ring yet. He had a chance to prove he belonged in the same conversation as the game's elite, and that he's just as qualified a quarterback as Eli.

And on the first play of the series, Rivers threw an interception. What happened next, though, rallied San Diego to a 21-20 win and defined the essence of Rivers as a player.

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Tom Coughlin, apparently deciding Rivers couldn't get the job done, played for a field goal by running up the middle on second-and-14 and third-and-9. The Chargers would get the ball back with just over two minutes to play and trailing by six. You didn't even have to see Rivers to know about the fire in his belly. They don't think I can do it, he surely thought.

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You see, Rivers doesn't take care of the ball like Kyle Orton. He's not a student of the game like Peyton Manning. He doesn't have a rocket for an arm or excessive mobility. He doesn't rack up Drew Brees-like stat-lines. He doesn't have the quiet leadership of Ben Roethlisberger or the postseason resume of Tom Brady. One thing about Rivers, though, is that he's a fighter.

And when he gets angry, he fights even harder. Judging from his career 37-18 record entering Sunday's game, he's also a winner.

The Giants' decision to give Rivers another chance was tantamount to a slap in the face of Rivers. Just like when the Chargers had to "settle" for Rivers. Just like when no one thought the Chargers could win a playoff game in Indianapolis. Just like countless other times when people told Rivers he wasn't good enough.

As usual, he responded.

Rivers took the Chargers 80 yards in 1:36, and he didn't even need a timeout -- finding Vincent Jackson in the corner of the end zone for the game-winner with just 21 seconds remaining.

"It's a big emotional win," Rivers said. "The link between me and Eli is always going to be there. So yeah, it's a little special. Any time you play against a team that won the Super Bowl, it's fun. [The trade] didn't weigh into my mind and my thinking, but I bet it was there."

After the pass, Rivers sprinted upwards of 50 yards backward on the field, facing the Giants sideline, screaming in joy (and probably some lingering anger). Whether you consider it fire or foolishness, it's Rivers. That's what he does. He uses his emotion on the field and lets it come out when he's conquered his opposition. In this case, he beat Coughlin, the Giants and -- from a certain point of view -- Manning.

"We had a chance and you can't leave that team in the game,'' said Manning, who was 25 of 33 for 215 yards and two touchdowns. "You can't leave that team an opening. They are good and talented and if you have a chance to end it, you have to end it.''

The Chargers are now 5-3 and trail the Broncos by a game and a half in the AFC West, but they came out of New York with plenty of swagger and momentum. Just like their quarterback.

Philip Rivers Redeems Self in 'Eli Bowl' originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Thriving Denver D Brings Back the Sack

Nancy Gay — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:05:00 EST

Filed under: Broncos, AFC West, NFL Coaching, FanHouse Exclusive, NFL Analysis

SAN DIEGO -- Outside linebacker Elvis Dumervil set aside any doubts that the 2009 Broncos' astonishing turnaround isn't legitimate on Monday night when he leveled Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers a second time in the contest, helping punctuate a 34-23 division victory that gave undefeated Denver a stranglehold on the AFC West.

With that, Dumervil had his NFL-leading 10th sack, putting him on pace to surpass Michael Strahan's single-season record of 22 1/2.

"It's hard to get to 10 [sacks]," said Dumervil, who was surrounded in the crowded visitors' locker room at Qualcomm Stadium by teammates hooting and calling him the next Strahan. "Every sack guy knows it's hard to get to double digits.

"But this ... it's a new team, a new regime, and everything is new. We're just trying to innovate. We're trying to build a brand of football here, what we want to be as the Denver Broncos."

It's not easy building a 6-0 record -- but it's a lot more feasible with plays like inside linebacker D.J. Williams' fourth-quarter, 11-yard sack of Rivers, and linebacker Darrel Reid's drilling Rivers in the game's final minutes for the team's fourth sack. Rivers lost the ball on both hits.

They've crafted a defensive masterpiece in Denver, and the art of the sack is on full display. The Broncos are tied with the Vikings for the NFL lead with 21 total; in 2008, Denver had 26 sacks the entire season.

It's quite a renaissance from the past few years, when Denver's defensive units were among the NFL's worst. In 2008, Denver's defense surrendered 28.0 points per game (30th overall). Now the Broncos are the league's stingiest team, allowing only 11.0 ppg.

"What you're seeing out there are a bunch of guys just playing for each other," said Williams, one of the three holdovers from last season [along with Dumervil and cornerback Champ Bailey] on a defense that features eight new starters in 2009. "The last few years we weren't successful, for whatever reason it was.

"This year, we changed a lot of things around, our philosophy, our scheme, changed a lot of players. It's working. It's productive. You can't really go against it, because it's working."

Is it as simple as making the head coaching switch from veteran Mike Shanahan to the fresh face and message of Josh McDaniels, 33, and the subsequent hiring of defensive specialist Mike Nolan as coordinator?

"That part of it, but it's so much more," said former NFL personnel executive Michael Lombardi, who spent the 2007 season with the Broncos as an advisor and is now an NFL Network analyst and columnist for National Football Post. "They also changed the scheme and stuck to the 3-4, rather than switching back and forth. They brought in a lot of new players -- smarter guys who understand how to play the game of football. They're just solid players who know what the game is all about and what it takes to be successful."

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Denver Broncos Photos

Denver Broncos linebacker Andra Davis points to the San Diego fans as walks off the field while the San Diego Chargers offensive line leaves the field during the fourth quarter quarter of the NFL football game Monday, Oct. 19, 2009 in San Diego. The Broncos won 34-23 over the Chargers. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

FR59680 AP

Denver Broncos Photos

Denver Broncos receiver Eddie Royal fails to make a third down catch near the San Diego Chargers' end zone during the second quarter, Monday, October 19, 2009, at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California.

Colorado Springs Gazette / MCT

Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Stokley (14) pulls in a five yard touchdown pass in front of San Diego Chargers' Antonio Cromartie to seal the Broncos 34-23 victory over the San Diego Chargers in the fourth quarter of the NFL football game Monday, Oct. 19, 2009 in San Diego. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

ASSOCIATED PRESS

San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers is wrapped up and sacked by Denver Broncos linebacker D.J. Williams during the fourth quarter of the NFL football game Monday, Oct. 19, 2009 in San Diego. Rivers fumbled and Williams recovered the ball. The Broncos won 34-23 over the Chargers. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

ASSOCIATED PRESS

San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers losses the ball while being sacked during the fourth quarter of the Chargers 34-23 loss to the Denver Broncos in an NFL football game Monday, Oct. 19, 2009 in San Diego. The Broncos recovered. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Denver Broncos tight end Tony Scheffler dances through the end zone after his 19-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter of the NFL football game Monday, Oct. 19, 2009 in San Diego. Scheffler had six receptions for 101 yards. The Broncos won 34-23 over the Chargers. (AP Photo/Chris Park)

The San Diego Chargers players hang their head during the fourth quarter of their 34-23 loss to the Denver Broncos in the NFL football game Monday, Oct. 19, 2009 in San Diego. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

SAN DIEGO - OCTOBER 19: Philip Rivers #17 of the San Diego Chargers gets ready to walk on the field before a game against the Denver Broncos at Qualcomm Stadium on October 19, 2009 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Jacob de Golish/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Philip rivers

Getty Images

SAN DIEGO - OCTOBER 19: Andra Davis #54 of the Denver Broncos walks of the field after defeating the San Diego Chargers 34-23 at Qualcomm Stadium on October 19, 2009 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Jacob de Golish/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Andra Davis

Getty Images

Newcomers such as veteran safety Brian Dawkins, cornerback Andre' Goodman, safety Renaldo Hill and nose tackle Ronald Fields epitomize these types of intelligent leaders.

When McDaniels was hired last Jan. 12 after spending the past eight seasons with the Patriots -- and rising to become Bill Belichick's trusted offensive coordinator -- he knew the Broncos' pitiful defense was only one of many areas in need of an overhaul.

"There were so many things we weren't doing well, in every phase -- offensively, defensively -- we were bad in a lot of areas," McDaniels said. "It just started with hiring a good staff. That was No. 1 on the list. Mike's [Nolan] obviously done a great job with his staff, and the coaches have done a nice job of getting their players ready and prepared.

"And we made the decision to go to the 3-4 system, which is really my background. Mike, of course, is versed in both or either. We could have gone in another direction, but we just felt like, with where we were at, we wanted to go ahead and make that transition quickly and try to get as far as we could by the time the season came around."

Monday night, the Broncos blitzed Rivers continuously, keeping one of the NFL's strongest and toughest quarterbacks under siege. But a lot of the straight pressure masquerades as blitzing, which keeps offenses off-balance. Denver's swarming attack neutralized the Cowboys' Tony Romo and New England's Tom Brady as well, so it's pretty darn effective.

"I don't know the exact percentage that we're blitzing," McDaniels said, "but we've actually created blitzing without blitzing ... I think that's a combination of good coverage and great effort up front. It isn't every time that we have a free run at the quarterback because we brought one more guy that they can block. That really hasn't happened much all year."

Dumervil, for example, often gets matched up against a blocking fullback or running back in Nolan's scheme and he typically wins that battle. Williams calls the signals for the group. The push up front has made the secondary effective again. And much of what Denver does defensively is just sound tackling and powerful hitting.

In the 17-10 Week 4 victory over the Cowboys, Williams made a crushing fourth-quarter tackle of Dallas receiver Roy Williams that looked like a full-body clothesline hit to the big receiver's midsection. Williams the receiver crumpled to the Invesco Field turf in obvious pain with three injured ribs and cartilage damage. He didn't return.

"Never in my life have I ever been hit like that, from Pop Warner through my six years in the league," said Roy Williams, describing the blow.

Said McDaniels, "D.J. is just a very good linebacker. The weak-side of a 3-4, some people think that the ball runs away most of the time ... but D.J. has some coverage responsibility and he's capable of doing that. We've done a decent job of mixing that up. We've blitzed some and created some problems in the backfield.

"And when he has a chance to run and get to the ball carrier where it's tough for somebody to get a body on him, he usually makes the tackle. And that's the sign of a good linebacker, when somebody is struggling to get onto you and because of that you're making a bunch of tackles, you're a dependable player and that's what he's shown the first four weeks."

A McDaniels/Nolan blitz is not a four-man break. "No, it's five. It's gotta be one more than a four-man rush," McDaniels said.

As they bask in the glow of a 6-0 record and enjoy their bye, the rest of the NFL has to wonder: Can the Broncos continue at this pace defensively?

"I had that same question after Week 1," Nolan, the former 49ers head coach, said with a laugh. "But it's pleasing that we're able to help the football team win, rather than hope the offense can overcome you. Our players take a lot of pride in it -- Elvis Dumervil is doing a good job, as well as many other players. Our secondary is experienced, very professional. Hopefully we just keep this going.

"If you ask me that question again in Week 16, then I'll give you a better answer."

Thriving Denver D Brings Back the Sack originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 21:05:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Should Chiefs Have Gone for Two?

Matt Snyder — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 19:10:00 EST

Filed under: Chiefs, Cowboys, AFC West, NFC East, NFL Coaching

With less than 30 seconds left in a home tilt against the Dallas Cowboys, the Kansas City Chiefs had the opportunity to win their first game of the season -- which would have also been the first win of Todd Haley's head coaching career. After a Dwayne Bowe touchdown, the Chiefs trailed by the Cowboys 20-19 with a conversion on the way. They could have converted a two-pointer and won the game. Instead, they opted to kick the extra point and tie the game.

The Chiefs eventually lost in overtime to the Cowboys, so let the second-guessing begin. Should Haley have gone for the 2-pointer and the victory?

Yes

The Chiefs are clearly the inferior team. They had allowed the Cowboys to romp for 202 yards on three second half drives, which accounted for 17 of the Cowboys' 20 points. They had no answer for Tony Romo or Miles Austin through the air and weren't exactly stuffing the run (the 'Boys averaged 5.8 yards per carry on the game). Simply put: it was pretty obvious the Chiefs' defense wasn't going to stop Dallas if they were on the field in overtime.

Thus, why not go for two? You are 0-4. It's only two yards. If, heading into the game, someone told the Chiefs you have one play to gain two yards to win the football game, don't you think they would have loved that? I guess not, because Haley didn't go for it. He took the safe way out when he should be doing everything he can to capture that elusive first victory.

No

You are at home and have all the momentum. Why chance losing the game on an unsuccessful two-point conversion when you can go for the sure thing and tie the football game? Plus, the Chiefs had just mounted their most successful drive of the game, going 74 yards in just 10 plays to tie the game. For the first time in three weeks, Bowe and Matt Cassel seemed to be on the same page.

It's easy to sit here and second guess, but what if the Chiefs had gone for two and been unsuccessful? Wouldn't everyone be crucifying them for not taking the tie and heading to overtime at home?

If the Chiefs won the toss in overtime, it seems pretty reasonable that they could have moved the ball into field goal range -- and Ryan Succop had already nailed a 47-yarder earlier in the game.

So, which was it? Vote in the poll to let us know and feel free to argue your case in the comments section.

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NFL Throwback Uniforms

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the American Football League (AFL), several teams have worn throwback uniforms this year. Tom Brady's New England Patriots were one of four teams in retro duds for Week 5. Click through to check out the rest.

Jed Jacobsohn, Getty Image,

NFL Throwback Uniforms

Jed Jacobsohn, Getty Image,

Denver Broncos or Wyoming Cowboys? The Broncos' AFL eyesores looked very similar to those currently worn by Wyoming of the Mountain West conference. Ugly or not, they worked -- Denver upset New England in overtime.

Barry Gutierrez, AP

At first glance, the Kansas City Chiefs' uniforms on Sunday, which they sported for an overtime loss to the Cowboys, didn't look that dissimilar from their current gear. But looks can be deceiving ...

Jamie Squire, Getty Images

... While the Chiefs got to keep their red and white on, they also wore the helmet of the Dallas Texans -- the AFL squad that moved to K.C. after 1962. It made for an odd scene with "Dallas" playing Dallas in Kansas City.

Jamie Squire, Getty Images

The Rams wore what may be the most recognizable of all the throwbacks, suiting up in their well-known yellow and blue jerseys with the ram-horn helmet. It's a look that St. Louis still has in the rotation as an alternate jersey.

Ronald Martinez, Getty Images

Should Chiefs Have Gone for Two? originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sun, 11 Oct 2009 19:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FanHouse in the Stands: Raiders Fan Can't Take It Any More

Stephanie Stradley — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 06:00:00 EST

Filed under: Raiders, Texans, AFC West, NFL Fans

This season, FanHouse writers take their cameras to NFL stadiums to document what happens when you stop being polite and start getting real. Or something. We've cleverly titled it FanHouse in the Stands.

Right in front of me, I saw something happen at the Texans 29-6 win over the Raiders that I've never seen at a NFL game. A Raiders fan jumped onto the field, got tackled by security in the Raiders end zone, and the Raiders ran a play as the guy was getting handcuffed. Either the refs didn't see it happen, or they figured the guy wasn't in the field of play because the Raiders weren't going to be visiting the end zone with that offense. Zing!

That couldn't have felt good. The security guy in the yellow shirt moved pretty good for a big guy and tackled the Raiders fan down on the pylon. (Update: The video show the green shirted security guy got to him first. Still didn't look comfortable)

I always wonder what possesses a person to do such a thing when the likely end result is a trip to jail. Some might blame it on the a-a-a-al alcohol but a ton of people drink and don't sag-pants their way onto football fields.

I was able to track down the actual conversation between the police officer and the Raider fan (second-hand version as told by officer):

Officer: What were you thinking?
Raiders fan: The Raiders just make me so upset since they keep losing...
Officer: So you have been upset for a long time.
Raiders fan: (head down) Yeah...I guess so...

I have a lot of sympathy for that. I paid to watch David Carr "quarterback" for five years. I guess running onto the field is less drastic than eye bleach, for instance.

Another Raiders fan had a different way to cope with his team's wretched performance. Taking a nap.

An extremely loud cannon goes off every time the Texans score, and this guy didn't even flinch when it went off:

The north end zone at Reliant Stadium is called the Bull Pen. It's the part of the stadium with particularly enthusiastic fans who stand up the entire game.

The Bull Pen isn't a place I'd recommend for a visiting fan, especially one who decides to snooze.

Raider Fan didn't get the Sharpie treatment, though his head would have made a perfect canvas for some crude drawings if someone were so inclined.

Instead, some Texans fans were hospitable and gave him a Texans banner blanket and then everybody took cell phone pictures of him:

Unfortunately, Raider Fan woke up and decided he was hungry, and then proceeded to get nachos all over the fans around him.

Witnesses say that when those fans asked him to stop, he used choice profanities, including ones directed at kids.

He was escorted out of the Bull Pen by the yellow shirts -- the fan name for the security/usher guys that roam the stadium.

I have to say that the Raiders fans in my area of the stadium were pretty good people.

It's hard to get too obnoxious in a road stadium when your team is playing so poorly.

(Special thanks to Andy Martin of BullPenPhotos.com. He has many photos of the Texans-Raiders game, including special section he included for just this game involving *special* Raider fans).

FanHouse in the Stands: Raiders Fan Can't Take It Any More originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 06:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Robert Gallery Suffers Broken Fibula

Matt Snyder — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:10:00 EST

Filed under: Raiders, AFC West, NFL Injuries

The Oakland Raiders fought tooth and nail for a victory Sunday afternoon in Kansas City. Afterward, offensive guard Robert Gallery provided a black cloud on an otherwise sunny Raider day. The 29-year-old guard told a throng of reporters in the locker room that he suffered a broken left fibula during the game.

Gallery is part of a solid run-blocking offensive line and he's the team's best pulling guard. Losing him for any length of time is a big blow for the team, and this injury figures to be a while. The fibula is the smaller bone in the lower leg (tibia is the big one, also known as the shin).

Without Gallery, the Raiders won't be able to swing Darren McFadden to the outside as effectively. Gallery made a few solid downfield blocks Sunday against the Chiefs, and that was a normal occurrence. Without Gallery, the smart money is on Michael Bush getting more of the carries, as he's the between-the-tackles guy for Oakland.

Paul McQuistan will likely take over for Gallery at guard with him sidelined.

The Raiders defeated Kansas City 13-10 Sunday on a late McFadden touchdown. They will face the Denver Broncos next week at home.

Fantasy Football Spin:
McFadden got the late touchdown, but this injury bodes well for Bush to end up being the more valuable fantasy back the rest of the way. Before doing anything rash and trading McFadden, though, let's see how the Raiders fare in Week 3 with their new-look offensive line. Be cautious without being too knee-jerk.

Robert Gallery Suffers Broken Fibula originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:10:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Heyward-Bey Shut Out in Debut

JJ Cooper — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Raiders, AFC West

When the Raiders took Darrius Heyward-Bey with the seventh pick in the 2009 draft, it shook everything up. The Maryland product was considered a late first-round pick by most draft experts, but his excellent speed (a 4.3-second 40-yard dash) is just what Al Davis dreams of.

Heyward-Bey was supposed to slip further in the draft because of questionable hands. The optimistic view is that Heyward-Bey has the size and speed to be an elite receiver if he can just learn to catch better. The pessimistic view is that most receivers don't develop better hands in the NFL.

So did the Raiders know something that everyone else missed on? As you would expect considering Oakland's recent track record, Heyward-Bey's debut was less than impressive.

Oakland threw Heyward-Bey's way six times on Monday night, but he didn't record a catch (two of those plays were called back because of penalties, but neither affected whether Heyward-Bey was going to make a catch or not). The best that could be said for Heyward-Bey was that he did draw an illegal contact flag on cornerback Quentin Jammer, which resulted in a first down.

That was the good news. But he also had a pair of drops on passes that hit his hands. His "best" play was an out route in which he came open 20 yards downfield, but quarterback JaMarcus Russell overthrew him by five yards.

Russell's inaccuracy will not help Heyward-Bey's development. The 2007 No. 1 pick struggles to complete passes that should be a part of any NFL quarterback's repertoire. But the Raiders are also hurting Russell's development by giving him a very inexperienced group of receivers to throw to. Fellow rookie Louis Murphy had a solid opener (4 catches for 87 yards, including a go-ahead 57-yard touchdown on a blown coverage), but Murphy was the only Raiders wide receiver to catch a pass all night. No. 3 receiver Johnnie Lee Higgins didn't catch any of the five passes thrown his way either. It's worth noting that Russell was 7-for-9 when throwing to tight ends and backs, but 4-for-19 when throwing to wide receivers.

The Raiders' only reliable receiver, Chaz Schilens, missed the opener with an injury, but anyone expecting Heyward-Bey to quickly become that No. 1 is likely to be sadly disappointed.

Heyward-Bey Shut Out in Debut originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Incredible Brandon Stokley Touchdown Lifts Broncos to Win

Bruce Ciskie — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:20:00 EST

Filed under: Bengals, Broncos, AFC North, AFC West

The Cincinnati Bengals had the game wrapped up. It was over. Cedric Benson's one-yard touchdown run with under a minute to play had given Cincinnati a 7-6 lead. It capped a long drive that ate much of the game's final five minutes.

Unfortunately for Cincinnati, the drive didn't eat enough time. Broncos quarterback Kyle Orton hooked up with receiver Brandon Stokley for an 87-yard score, giving the Broncos a 12-7 win in one of the more improbable finishes the NFL has ever seen.

Broncos 12, Bengals 7: Read Recap | Check Box Score

Orton was trying hit a long pass to Brandon Marshall on the sideline, but Bengal Leon Hall got his hand on the ball. As two Cincinnati defenders took down Marshall, Stokley came out of nowhere to snare the ball. He had a clear path down the sideline, easily outrunning Bengals linebacker Dhani Jones to the end zone.

In a sly move, the veteran Stokley ran along the goal line for a few seconds before crossing it, burning some more time off the clock. That meant the Bengals only had time for one desperation pass, which was intercepted.

It was a sloppy game, with the Bengals botching a snap on a short field goal attempt, and the Broncos were held well under 250 total yards before Stokley's miracle touchdown. This was likely a surprise for fans of both teams. Denver's defense has been maligned for some time, but put together a marvelous first effort under new coordinator Mike Nolan. Meanwhile, the much-hyped Cincinnati offense had more than its fair share of issues moving the ball and scoring points.

Denver (1-0) hosts Cleveland in Week 2, while the 0-1 Bengals visit Green Bay.

Incredible Brandon Stokley Touchdown Lifts Broncos to Win originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sun, 13 Sep 2009 16:20:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Richard Seymour Is Ready to Play

Nancy Gay — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 12:09:00 EST

Filed under: Patriots, Raiders, AFC West

Richard Seymour's twisted, tortured road to Oakland appeared to smooth on Saturday when the former New England Patriots defensive end said he is making his way to the Raiders' Alameda training headquarters.

"I'll be the one on top of the quarterback," Seymour told the Boston Herald, indicating he plans to play in the Raiders' season opener Monday night againt the San Diego Chargers at the Oakland Coliseum.

As for his reluctance to report to Alameda to take his physical, the final step in completing his trade to Oakland in exchange for a 2011 first-round draft pick, Seymour, 29, said he was struggling to come to terms with the sudden change of employment.

"First of all, I was blindsided by this whole event," Seymour said. "When you get blindsided, you should take a moment to gather your thoughts. I have a lot of pressing issues more important than football."

Foremost among them, Seymour said, was relocating his wife, children and a 15-year-old cousin for whom he serves as guardian to the family's offseason home in South Carolina.

"There are a lot of different emotions," Seymour told the Herald, adding that he has maintained contact with Raiders owner Al Davis and head coach Tom Cable. "Football was not my main concern at that point. I have had discussions with the Raiders ... I am excited and happy with the way they're looking at me."

Seymour said there have been discussions about a contract extension -- he is entering the final year of a deal that will pay him $3.685 million this season -- but that he has made no specific demands of the Raiders.

At the same time, Seymour confirmed that the NFL Players Association is now getting involved in one of the NFL's most bizarre trades.

"But that's more of a procedural thing," Seymour said.

The player's union has filed a grievance on Seymour's behalf, the Boston Globe reported via a source, claiming the Raiders could not serve the defensive end a "five-day" letter demanding that he report by Tuesday or risk being suspended for the entire 2009 season because he technically is not employed by the franchise.

Players must pass that physical in order for a trade to be completed. If a player refuses to comply, he is considered to have failed the physical and must answer to the consequences.

In Alameda, where there is no such thing as a quiet, normal NFL work week, Raiders players seemed to lose hope that the recalcitrant Seymour, a five-time Pro Bowler, would be available to bolster their run-challenged 4-3 defensive front in time for the Chargers' opener.

"We come in hoping to see him here and then we're promptly disappointed," Pro Bowl cornerback and team leader Nnamdi Asomugha said.

Realistically, how much of a contribution could a late-arriving Seymour really make on Monday night, as he undergoes an attitude adjustment and a one-day transition from his familiar 3-4 scheme to a 4-3 front that finished 31st in the NFL against the run in 2008?

Former Patriots teammate Rodney Harrison has said Seymour was unhappy about the trade, which sends him from a team that has posted a 77-19 mark the past six seasons to a franchise that has an NFL-worst 24-72 record in that span. In 2008, Oakland became the first NFL team to lose at least 11 games in six consecutive seasons.

"Who would be thrilled to go to the Oakland Raiders?" Harrison told Pro Football Talk.

Now, it appears Seymour either has re-evaluated his lack of leverage in this trade. Had he refused to report, Seymour would have forfeited his entire 2009 salary along with his right to become an unrestrictred free agent in 2010, which could be a lucrative uncapped year.

Richard Seymour Is Ready to Play originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 12:09:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Broncos, Marshall Ready to Kiss and Make Up?

Josh Alper — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:45:00 EST

Filed under: Broncos, AFC West, NFL Rumors

After months of playing out as a soap opera, Mile High Stadium 80204 if you will, the Broncos-Brandon Marshall saga is suddenly looking like a romantic comedy.

It's screenwriting 101. The two characters meet, there are sparks but obstacles are put between them which makes them hate each other, until one day one of them realizes that what they thought was hate turns out to be love after all -- sometimes after the other character changes their hairstyle or takes off their glasses -- and they live happily ever after.

Maybe there was something about the way Marshall took off his helmet at practice on Tuesday that made the Broncos see him in a whole new light. Something happened, because Adam Schefter of ESPN is reporting that the team is "exploring the possibility" of a contract extension.

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Could it really happen? Could the disgruntled receiver and the disgruntled team actually find themselves in a mutually-gruntled situation after everything that has gone down this offseason?

Of course they could, because it was always the solution that held the greatest benefit for both sides. Trading Marshall never made any sense for the Broncos because his hip injury and bad attitude had him at his lowest possible value, while signing him would give them a first-rate weapon to use in what, they hope, will one day be a high-powered Josh McDaniels offense.

Marshall initially asked for a trade because his request for a new deal was turned down, so he was always more interested in getting paid than getting moved. Getting that deal now is absolutely in his interest because a trade isn't happening, and because he'll be a restricted free agent following the season. Given the uncertain status of the salary cap and, if there's a lockout, the league itself, it behooves Marshall to get that deal sooner because later may never materialize.

It's too soon to cue the music and roll the credits on this production, as there's plenty of time for an M. Night Shyamalan-style twist, but it looks like this story could have a happy ending after all. Which, when you think about it, is twist enough after the summer.

Broncos, Marshall Ready to Kiss and Make Up? originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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San Francisco 49ers 2009 Preview: Singletary Changing Team For the Better

R.J. White — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: 49ers, AFC West, FanHouse Previews, NFL Analysis

Training camps have wrapped up, the NFL season is right around the corner, and it's still hot as sin outside. But instead of cooling you off with a warm island song, FanHouse break out ye old heat check for our 2009 NFL Season Previews. We'll rate each club in 5 categories on a scale of 1 to 10, high score wins.

After generating a significant amount of hype over the past few years, the 49ers will enter 2009 with no expectations on the board. Division rival Arizona went to the Super Bowl, while many expect a rebound from long-time division champion Seattle. To me, this makes the 49ers a dangerous team.

The first part of 2008 was a disaster. After four straight losses, which dropped the team to a 2-5 record, Mike Nolan was fired and replaced by Mike Singletary. After another loss left them heading into the bye week 2-6, San Francisco benched quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan and replaced him with Shaun Hill. In that Week 10 game, the 49ers jumped out to a quick lead, but couldn't hang on and fell to 2-7. The team then rallied to win five of their final seven games behind Hill and Singletary, finishing the season with a 7-9 record. Can they build upon that late-season success?

Offense: Soon after the season closed, the 49ers dumped offensive "genius" Mike Martz. After a bit of a search, the team signed Jimmy Raye to run the offense -- expect to see he and Singletary favor a power running game. This bodes well for the prospects of the offense, as running back Frank Gore is easily the team's best offensive weapon. Gore should carry the ball 20 times a game, with rookie Glen Coffee sprinkled in a few times a game. This should alleviate the pressure on the passing game. Hill defeated Alex Smith in a preseason battle to become the starting QB. What you may not be aware of is the fact that Hill is 7-3 as a starting QB, and he's proven himself more than capable of running an offense. Even with Michael Crabtree's absence, the team has a very good vertical weapon in Josh Morgan to pair with veteran Isaac Bruce. Don't underrate the shrewd signing of tackle Tony Pashos, who was recently cut by the Jaguars. Pashos could step in and start on the right side, which would theoretically improve the team's run blocking. Heat Index: 6

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San Francisco 49ers Photos

SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 4: Quarterback Alex Smith #11 of the San Francisco 49ers watches from the sidelines during the game with the San Diego Chargers on September 4, 2009 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Chargers won 26-7. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Alex Smith

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San Francisco 49ers Photos

Chuck Liddell, a mixed martial artist, gets a hug from San Diego Chargers' Kassim Osgood prior to the NFL preseason football game between the San Diego Chargers and the San Francisco 49ers at Qualcomm Stadium on Friday, Sept. 4, 2009 in San Diego. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

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SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 4: Head coach Mike Singletary of the San Francisco 49ers talks on the sidelines during the game with the San Diego Chargers on September 4, 2009 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Chargers won 26-7. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Mike Singletary

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SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 4: Linebacker Diyral Briggs #47 of the San Francisco 49ers knocks the ball out of the hand of quarterback Charlie Whithurst #6 of the San Diego Chargers and force a turnover on the 12 yard line on September 4, 2009 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Chargers won 26-7. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Diyral Briggs;Charlie Whitehurst

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SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 4: Linebacker Eric Bakhtiari #48 of the San Diego Chargers breaks up a pass in the end zone intended for fullback Bill Rent meester #43 of the San Francisco 49ers on September 4, 2009 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Chargers won 26-7. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Eric Bakhtiari;Bill Rentmeester

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SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 04: Linebacker Shawne Merriman #56 of the San Diego Chargers sits on the bench during the game with the San Francisco 49ers on September 4, 2009 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Chargers won 26-7. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Shawne Merriman

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SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 4: Tight end Kory Sperry #48 of the San Diego Chargers reaches to get the ball over the goal line as he scores on a fifteen yard touchdown reception past safety Curtis #28 of the San Francisco 49ers on September 4, 2009 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Chrgers won 26-7. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Kory Sperry;Curtis Taylor

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SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 04: Quarterback Philip Rivers #17 of the San Diego Chargers walks on the field after the game with the San Francisco 49ers on September 4, 2009 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Chrgers won 26-7. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Philip Rivers

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SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 4: Quarterback Philip Rivers #17 of the San Diego Chargers greets quarterback Shaun Hill #13 of the San Francisco 49ers after the game on September 4, 2009 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Chrgers won 26-7. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Philip Rivers;Shaun Hill

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SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 04: Quarterback Charlie Whitehurst #6 of the San Diego Chargers throws a 15 yard touchdown pass against the San Francisco 49ers on September 4, 2009 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Chargers won 26-7. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Charlie Whitehurst

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Defense: The defensive side of the ball was solid last year. They ranked in the top half of the NFL at allowing yards, and while their 23.8 points/game average isn't good by any means, it was the best mark for the sorry bunch of defenses that reside in the NFC West. The marquee player on the unit is linebacker Patrick Willis, a third year player who has quickly become one of the elites at the position. While Takeo Spikes makes for a great partner in the middle, the 49ers will need Manny Lawson to finally take a step forward if they are to compete. Nate Clements is solid as the top cornerback, while the trio of Dre Bly, Shawntae Spencer, and Tarell Brown gives the team depth at the position. Weak play at safety could also hold the performance of the secondary back. Overall, this is a competent unit yet again, but it's going to take a few players stepping up at each level of the defense for this group to be considered a strength. Heat Index: 5

Special Teams: Joe Nedney returns with an extension in hand for his fifth season in San Francisco. He's been consistently great, connecting on 88% of his field goal tries in 2008. Punter Andy Lee regressed after a Pro Bowl season in 2007, and if he wants a new contract, he'll need to be at the top of his game this year. Allen Rossum will again return kickoffs and punts. He had the best season of his career last year, averaging 26.8 yards per kick return (3.5 yards better than his career average) and 14.9 yards per punt (3.8 yards better than his career average). If Lee rebounds, this trio could give the 49ers one of the league's best group of specialists. Heat Index: 8

Coaching: Now here's where it gets dicey. Singletary did an awesome job as the interim coach, and it looks like he's instilling a new attitude in the locker room and on the practice field. The switch from Nolan's hybrid defense to a conventional 3-4 by defensive coordinator Greg Manusky led to a huge improvement. With defense being Singletary's specialty, it wouldn't be crazy to see the 49ers defense approach the top 10 this year. Raye certainly has experience on his side, as this will be the seventh team to employ him as offensive coordinator. Heat Index: 6

Intangibles: I'll be very interested to see Michael Crabtree's effect on the locker room, if/when he signs. Coach Singletary already proved he's a no-nonsense kind of guy in his dealings with tight end Vernon Davis. An injury to free agent signee Brandon Jones leaves the 49ers shallow at wide receiver, so the team will need to stay healthy at that position early this year. After several seasons of hype, the lack of excitement over this group could be just what they need to finally produce. Heat Index: 5

Total Heat Index: 30/50 Don't just brush off the team's 5-1 run at the end of 2008. Mike Singletary has shown he can be a winning head coach, and he was given the opportunity this year to build the team on his terms. In what has been the weakest division in football for much of this past decade, the 49ers have a shot at the playoffs, especially if the Cardinals suffer the customary year-after decline the losing Super Bowl team usually endures.

San Francisco 49ers 2009 Preview: Singletary Changing Team For the Better originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Denver Broncos 2009 Preview: Josh McDaniels and the Very Big Bet

Josh Alper — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Broncos, AFC West, FanHouse Previews, NFL Analysis

Training camps have wrapped up, the NFL season is right around the corner, and it's still hot as sin outside. But instead of cooling you off with a warm island song, FanHouse break out ye old heat check for our 2009 NFL Season Previews. We'll rate each club in 5 categories on a scale of 1 to 10, high score wins.

Give Josh McDaniels this much: He's willing to make an impression. Before he's even coached so much as one regular season game, he's assured that he will either be remembered as a bold, brilliant leader who won because he had the courage of his convictions, or as an abject failure whose hiring set the franchise back by years because he had the courage of his convictions. Some of that has to do with Jay Cutler's career trajectory, but McDaniels needs to win and he needs to win quickly.

Offense: You probably heard about how the Broncos traded Jay Cutler and how replacement Kyle Orton has neither the rocket arm nor good health of the man he was traded for this winter. You also probably heard about Brandon Marshall's litany of complaints and bad behavior, which led to his suspension and could put the second, and final, nail in the coffin of the passing game. Those situations are very real problems, but they have obscured the fact that the Broncos have a very good offensive line which should be able to help them run the ball. Knowshon Moreno, Correll Buckhalter and Peyton Hillis should give good effort on that front, and it would be dreamy if they could get enough help in the air to avoid eight man fronts. Re-enter Marshall. If he realizes that the federal government is the only group that gives cash for clunkers and comes with a serious effort to get the contract/trade he wants the Broncos could find some success on offense. Heat Index: 5

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Denver Broncos Photos

DENVER - SEPTEMBER 03: Head coach Josh McDaniels of the Denver Broncos walks the sideline as he faces the Arizona Cardinals during preseason NFL action at Invesco Field at Mile High on September 3, 2009 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Cardinals 19-0. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Josh McDaniels

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Denver Broncos Photos

DENVER - SEPTEMBER 3: Head coach Josh McDaniels of the Denver Broncos talks with side judge Don Carlson #39 during the NFL preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals at Invesco Field at Mile High on September 3, 2009 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Don Carlson;Josh McDaniels

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DENVER - SEPTEMBER 03: Quarterback Ingle Martin #9 of the Denver Broncos drops back to pass against the Arizona Cardinals preseason NFL action at Invesco Field at Mile High on September 3, 2009 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Cardinals 19-0. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Ingle Martin

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DENVER - SEPTEMBER 03: Head coach Josh McDaniels (R) of the Denver Broncos and head coach Ken Wisenhunt (L) of the Arizona Cardinals meet and greet after the game during preseason NFL action at Invesco Field at Mile High on September 3, 2009 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Cardinals 19-0. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Josh McDaniels;Ken Wisenhunt

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DENVER - SEPTEMBER 3: Ben Graham #5 of the Arizona Cardinals puts the ball away during the NFL preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Invesco Field at Mile High on September 3, 2009 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Cardinals 19-0. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Ben Graham

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DENVER - SEPTEMBER 3: Quarterback Tyler Palko #3 of the Arizona Cardinals points down field as he looks for a receiver during the NFL preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Invesco Field at Mile High on September 3, 2009 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Cardinals 19-0. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Tyler Palko

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DENVER - SEPTEMBER 3: Quarterback Tyler Palko #3 of the Arizona Cardinals runs out of the pocket during the NFL preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Invesco Field at Mile High on September 3, 2009 in Denver, Colorado. The Broncos defeated the Cardinals 19-0. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Tyler Palko

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Arizona Cardinals quarterback Tyler Palko, front, is dragged down for a loss by Denver Broncos defensive lineman Tim Crowder in the fourth quarter of the Broncos' 19-0 victory in a preseason NFL football game in Denver on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Tyler Palko (3) is pressured by Denver Broncos defensive end Tim Crowder (96) during the fourth quarter of a preseason NFL football game at Invesco Field at Mile High on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009, in Denver. Denver beat Arizona 19-0. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Tyler Palko, left, breaks away from Denver Broncos defensive end Tim Crowder in the fourth quarter of the Broncos' 19-0 victory during a preseason NFL football game in Denver on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Defense: The good news is that it probably won't be as bad as it was last year. The bad news is that still leaves them somewhere in the bottom half of the league. Part of the problem is that the team fixed the back end without addressing the concerns on the front end. Signing Andre' Goodman, Brian Dawkins and Renaldo Hill to go with Champ Bailey gives the Broncos an experienced, if aging, secondary that should be miles better than the mishmash they threw out there in 2008. The thing about secondaries, though, is that any amount of talent can be compromised by a front seven that can't stop the run or pressure the quarterback. The Broncos didn't do enough of either in 2008 and switching to a 3-4 front now has the underperforming players in unfamiliar positions they may not be suited for. That's not the case with Elvis Dumervil, who looks like a natural edge rusher, but an inexperienced group of defensive linemen and mediocre linebackers can mostly hope to look better as the season progresses. Heat Index: 4

Special Teams: They say not to read much into preseason games, but the early returns on the Broncos special teams is that there's still a lot of work to do. Second-round pick Alphonso Smith had issues holding onto the ball on punt returns, which may force Eddie Royal back into the role even though he's now a key part of the offense. Hillis looks like the likely kick returner, which trades explosiveness for the ball security that Smith hasn't shown. A long Devin Hester punt return showed there's still plenty of work to do on the coverage units, and Matt Prater has been an inconsistent kicker since taking over for Jason Elam. Brett Kern looks like a solid punter, though, so they've got that going for them. Heat Index: 4

Coaching: Most of what you need to know about McDaniels we talked about above. In some ways, he's like a college coach, say Rich Rodriguez of Michigan, who plays a radically different scheme than his predecessor and needs to recruit players who are a better fit. This isn't college, though, and, like Rodriguez, McDaniels has to deal with the way things out of his control color his perception. Rodriguez earned the ire of Michigan fans by mucking with old school traditions which loyalists saw as a precursor to a three-win season. McDaniels traded Cutler and if the Bears have a great year while the Broncos struggle he'll feel a hotter seat because of it. All of that said, McDaniels clearly has something to be a head coach at 33. It just remains to be seen if that something causes him to succeed or fail. Heat Index: 6

Intangibles: All of the slings and arrows fired at the Broncos this offseason might have a positive effect on a team that doesn't like hearing how terrible they are at every turn. That kind of thing can bring you together and make you a bit stronger than the sum of your parts might be otherwise. Somewhat related to that is the impact of having a good number of the players on the roster fighting for their future. The Broncos are in flux, which may not lead to many wins but it leads to a lot of turnover and guys who want to stick around will be under pressure to prove their worth. Heat Index: 5

Total Heat Index: 24/50 The number seems about right for a team that's just about halfway to being a good football team. The biggest holes on the team -- quarterback and the front seven -- aren't going to be filled this year, but the team has enough around them to take risks and figure out what they need to go out and do before the 2010 season.

Denver Broncos 2009 Preview: Josh McDaniels and the Very Big Bet originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kansas City Chiefs 2009 Season Preview: We're Still the Chefs

Knox Bardeen — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Chiefs, AFC West, FanHouse Previews, NFL Analysis

Training camps have wrapped up, the NFL season is right around the corner, and it's still hot as sin outside. But instead of cooling you off with a warm island song, FanHouse break out ye old heat check for our 2009 NFL Season Previews. We'll rate each club in 5 categories on a scale of 1 to 10, high score wins.

In 2006, the Kansas City Chiefs finished with a 9-7 record and lost in the first round of the playoffs to Indianapolis. Since then, the Chiefs have won just six games -- four in 2007 and two last season -- causing a major overhaul of the front office and coaching staff prior to the 2009 season.

Scott Pioli was hired as the new general manager and he brought in Todd Haley as the new head coach. Pioli also began retooling the Chiefs roster. He sent a 2009 second-round pick to New England for quarterback Matt Cassel and shipped future Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez to Atlanta for a 2010 second-round pick. The benefits of these coaching and roster moves won't materialize overnight, so get ready for a tumultuous ride. You can bet that nobody will misspell the team name in the end zone, but it's going to be a while before this team can regain the winning ways of the old Chiefs' teams from not-so-recent memory.

Offense: Bringing in Cassel was a step in the right direction for the Chiefs, but he's still got a lot to prove after his breakout campaign for the Patriots last season. He's had trouble gelling with receivers in training camp and preseason games, and his MCL injury on August 29th won't help speed up the learning curve between the new quarterback and his receiving corps. As the passing game develops, the Chiefs must be able to run the ball, which won't raise hopes for fans -- the Chiefs running backs gained only 1,382 yards combined last season. Larry Johnson is aging and is always an injury question mark, while Jamaal Charles is a nice change of pace back but hasn't accrued enough carries for anyone to know how he'll fare long-term. Dwayne Bowe, who had 1,022 yards receiving last season, will turn into the featured target as the Chiefs will sorely miss Gonzalez. Heat Index: 4

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Kansas City Chiefs Photos

Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Ron Edwards holds an ice pack over his eye as he sits on the bench during the fourth quarter of a preseason NFL football game against the St. Louis Rams on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009, in St. Louis. The Rams won 17-9. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman)

Kansas City Cheifs Photos

ST. LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 03: Tight end Daniel Fells #46 of the St. Louis Rams dives into the end zone to score a touchdown in the second quarter against the Kansas City Chiefs during the preseason game at the Edward Jones Dome on September 3, 2009 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Daniel Fells

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ST. LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 03: Quarterback Brodie Croyle #12 of the Kansas City Chiefs drops back to pass against the defense of C.J. Ah You #98 of the St. Louis Rams during the preseason game at the Edward Jones Dome on September 3, 2009 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** C.J. Ah You;Brodie Croyle

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ST. LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 03: Head coach Steve Spagnuolo of the St. Louis Rams looks on during the preseason game against of the Kansas City Chiefs at the Edward Jones Dome on September 3, 2009 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Steve Spagnuolo

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ST. LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 03: Running back Jackie Battle #26 of the Kansas City Chiefs rushes against the defense of the St. Louis Rams during the third quarter of the preseason game at the Edward Jones Dome on September 3, 2009 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Jackie Battle

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ST. LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 03: Running back Chris Ogbonnaya #22 of the St. Louis Rams rushes against Ricardo Colclough #30 of the Kansas City Chiefs during the preseason game at the Edward Jones Dome on September 3, 2009 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Ricardo Colclough;Chris Ogbonnaya

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ST. LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 03: Head coach Todd Haley of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on from the sidelines during the during the preseason game against the St. Louis Rams at the Edward Jones Dome on September 3, 2009 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Todd Haley

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ST. LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 03: Wide receiver Rodney Wright #11 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs against the defense of Todd Johnson #35 and Chris Massey #45 of the St. Louis Rams during fourth quarter the preseason game at the Edward Jones Dome on September 3, 2009 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Chris Massey;Todd Johnson;Rodney Wright

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ST. LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 03: Tight end Brad Cottam #87 of the Kansas City Chiefs fails to make the catch against the defense of cornerback Justin King #31 of the St. Louis Rams during the second quarter of the preseason game at the Edward Jones Dome on September 3, 2009 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Brad Cottam

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ST. LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 03: Cornerback Quincy Butler #36 of the St. Louis Rams returns a 28 yard touchdown on an interception thrown by quarterback Tyler Thigpen #4 of the Kansas City Chiefs during the third quarter of the preseason game at the Edward Jones Dome on September 3, 2009 in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Quincy Butler

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Defense: After five seasons as the defensive coordinator in Kansas City, Gunther Cunningham is out and Clancy Pendergast is in. Pendergast's first order of business will be to change the existing 4-3 system into a 3-4 front. This transition won't be easy as the personnel to flourish in the new scheme isn't in place for the Chiefs. The team brought in Mike Vrabel, who should help ease the transition, but this new defense will spend a lot of time floundering (and maybe even use a hybrid scheme featuring multiple fronts) before the 3-4 solidifies and strengthens. Another area the Chiefs must improve in is rushing the quarterback. The Chiefs amassed a mere 10 sacks in 2008. To put that into perspective, 11 players had more sacks last season individually. It was the lowest sack total by a team since 1982 when the league began counting that statistic. Tamba Hali, the team leader with three sacks last season, could very well step up in 2009 while first-round draft choice Tyson Jackson should immediately pay dividends in the pass rush. Even though the secondary returns all four starters from last year, Jon McGraw and Mike Brown look to become the new safeties, and Brandon Carr will rejoin Brandon Flowers at cornerback. The secondary picked off just 12 passes last season, so the lack of a true play-making defensive back and a few injuries could spell trouble as the team looks to improve on their 28th-place pass defense. Heat Index: 4

Special Teams: Even though the Chiefs were fifth in the NFL last season in field goal accuracy (91.7 percent, 33 for 36), they decided to waive Connor Barth (who joined the team in week 8) in favor of Ryan Succop, whom the team drafted this season with their final pick. For Succop to supplant Barth, who missed two of his 12 field goal attempts, he must have impressed coaches with his foot in practices. He'll join Dustin Colquitt, who finished No. 11 in the league last season with a punt average of 44.4 yards. The return team, as a whole, was a "middle of the road" type group as they finished 11th in kick returns and 17th in punt returns in 2008. Charles takes over main kick return duties as he returned only 15 kicks last season for a 21.4 yard average. Dantrelle Savage will be the new punt return specialist. Savage did not return any kicks in 2008. Heat Index: 5

Coaching: Pioli was named Personnel Man of the Decade this summer for his work in building and maintaining the New England Patriots dynasty. He's known to scout his team better than anyone else in the business. He'll find that turning around the Chiefs might not be as that easy. Pioli's choice for head coach, Haley, is an offensive juggernaut who was responsible for the Arizona Cardinals high-powered passing attack. He'll soon realize that Bowe, Mark Bradley and Bobby Engram are not Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. But, who is? With the track records of both Pioli and Haley, a turnaround should happen, it just won't occur overnight. Heat Index: 7

Intangibles: Not only did the Chiefs have the youngest roster in the NFL last year, they also banged out the worst record in franchise history at 2-14 --- and were extremely thankful that the Detroit Lions were in the league so they weren't the most futile team playing. That said, the Chiefs play in a division that is top-heavy with San Diego, followed by a lot of question marks after. Seven of the 14 losses by the Chiefs last year were by a touchdown or fewer. So, it may seem that hope springs eternal. Just don't head to Vegas to bet on it. Heat Index: 2

Total Heat Index: 22/50 -- The Chiefs and the city of Kansas City are still looking for their first playoff win since the 1993 season. Pioli brings a pedigree with him to the front office that should raise spirits among the Arrowhead faithful. Remember, though, that Rome wasn't built in a day. Unless everything comes together and a few pleasant surprises are unboxed, this Chiefs team will fail in 2009. But, strides can be made. And for this Kansas City Chiefs team, that should be the goal.

Kansas City Chiefs 2009 Season Preview: We're Still the Chefs originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Oakland Raiders 2009 Season Preview: Forecast Still Mostly Cloudy

Chris Burke — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Raiders, AFC West, FanHouse Previews, NFL Analysis

Training camps have wrapped up, the NFL season is right around the corner, and it's still hot as sin outside. But instead of cooling you off with a warm island song, FanHouse break out ye old heat check for our 2009 NFL Season Previews. We'll rate each club in 5 categories on a scale of 1 to 10, high score wins.

For several seasons now, just about everything that could possibly go wrong in Oakland has. And 2009 didn't exactly get off to a great start with the Raiders reaching on several draft picks, then watching their head coach field phone calls from police. An immediate turnaround seems extremely unlikely this year -- though the silver and black would like to believe that the groundwork for improvement has been laid.

Offense: Here's the sugar-coated look at Oakland's offense -- JaMarcus Russell played pretty well at the end of 2008 and could be ready for a huge leap forward; the running backs all have potential with Darren McFadden capable of being a star; the starting wide receivers are young and promising. OK, good? Now here's the real look at Oakland's offense -- things could be very rough again this season. Oakland is fully invested in Russell, now in his third year, but he's shown the uncanny knack for turning the ball over. Worse yet, Oakland cut Jeff Garcia, so there's not a rel capable backup. McFadden and Justin Fargas are both capable of topping the 1,000-yard mark, but McFadden missed much of last year with a turf toe problem, and Fargas' running style puts him in constant jeopardy of a trip to the trainer. The Raiders' No. 1 WR Chaz Schilens will miss at least one game with a broken foot -- not to mention he was a rookie in 2008. Oakland's No. 2 is rookie Darrius Heyward-Bey who, from reports out of camp, couldn't catch swine flu if he slept in a pigpen. There are a couple of reliable pieces up front -- guards Robert Gallery and Cooper Carlisle should be sturdy -- but both left and right tackle are jumbled, meaning Russell will be under pressure. This could be a decent unit, but a lot of things must come together. Heat Index: 4

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Oakland Raiders Photos

SEATTLE - SEPTEMBER 03: Quarterback Charlie Frye #3 of the Oakland Raiders passes as he is hit by Michael Bennett #96 of the Seattle Seahawks on September 3, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Raiders 31-21. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Michael Bennett;Charlie Frye

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Oakland Raiders Photos

SEATTLE - SEPTEMBER 03: Linebacker Aaron Curry #59 of the Seattle Seahawks battles tackle Cornell Green #74 of the Oakland Raiders on September 3, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Raiders 31-21. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)

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SEATTLE - SEPTEMBER 03: Linebacker Aaron Curry #59 of the Seattle Seahawks celebrates after tackling running back Michael Bush #29 of the Oakland Raiders on September 3, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Raiders 31-21. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)

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SEATTLE - SEPTEMBER 03: Running back Devin Moore #30 of the Seattle Seahawks rushes against Sam Williams #54 of the Oakland Raiders on September 3, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Raiders 31-21. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Sam Williams;Devin Moore

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SEATTLE - SEPTEMBER 03: Wide receiver Jordan Kent #82 of the Seattle Seahawks leaves the field after being injured against the Oakland Raiders on September 3, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Raiders 31-21. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Jordan Kent

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SEATTLE - SEPTEMBER 03: Head coach Tom Cable of the Oakland Raiders looks on from the sidelines against the Seattle Seahawks on September 3, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Raiders 31-21. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Tom Cable

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SEATTLE - SEPTEMBER 03: Head coach Tom Cable (L) of the Oakland Raiders meets with head coach Jim Mora of the Seattle Seahawks after the game on September 3, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Raiders 31-21. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Jim Mora;Tom Cable

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SEATTLE - SEPTEMBER 03: Head coach Jim Mora of the Seattle Seahawks looks on from the sidelines against the Oakland Raiders on September 3, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Raiders 31-21. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Jim Mora

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Seattle Seahawks linebacker Aaron Curry hits Oakland Raiders quarterback Bruce Gradkowski (5) during the second quarter Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009, in an NFL preseason football game in Seattle. The Seahawks won 31-24. (AP Photo/John Froschauer)

Seattle Seahawks head coach Jim Mora, left, greets Oakland Raiders head coach Tom Cable after an NFL preseason football game, Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009, in Seattle. The Seahawks beat the Raiders 31-21. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)

Defense: This group gets better the further you get from the line of scrimmage, which speaks well of the secondary, but doesn't say much up front. So let's start in the secondary, where the Raiders re-signed cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha -- a great move, as he's shown himself to be an elite player. Chris Johnson also seems to be coming into his own a bit at Oakland's other cornerback spot, so that pairing could be dynamic. Hiram Eugene and Tyvon Branch are competent at safety, but keep an eye on rookie Mike Mitchell, a "What the heck" second-round pick who could develop into a force. Kirk Morrison and Thomas Howard return at middle and outside linebacker, respectively. Both are good, not great, and probably better against the pass. Jon Alston is penciled in at the other OLB spot. The defensive line was 31st against the run in 2008 and looked set for another miserable year until a trade this week brought back Richard Seymour from New England. He's not what he once was, but his presence at end at least gives Oakland a pass-rushing threat. They still might not be able to stop the run, though. Heat Index: 5

Special Teams: Here's a spot where Oakland will matchup well with its opponents, and the Raiders will need to win the special-teams battles to stay in games. Punter Shane Lechler might be the NFL's best at his position. Sebastian Janikowski has his disappointing moments, but he's also capable of stepping back to 50-plus yards and drilling kicks. Johnnie Lee Higgins is a big-play threat every time he touches the ball. And Oakland's coverage teams -- perhaps because the Raiders have to punt approximately 53 times a game -- are stingy. This is a very good group. Heat Index: 9

Coaching: Tom Cable handled things pretty well after taking over on an interim basis last season -- and the players seemed to respond to him. But now, the stench of an alleged altercation with one of his former assistants is lingering in the air, with Cable's future potentially in jeopardy. This is his show, for better or worse. He's offered glimpses into a very good coaching mind, but also made a few head-scratching decisions last year. Heat Index: 5

Intangibles: Lots of Raiders fans point to the Weeks 16 and 17 last season -- well out of the playoff picture, Oakland strung together impressive wins over Houston and at Tampa Bay -- as indication that this team has the necessary talent and desire. They might be right. If Cable can keep his head about him, the players will continue to respond to him for the time being. There's a lot of potential, but it's asking a ton for all of the moving parts to lock in before the season. Heat Index: 4

Total Heat Index: 27/50 -- If you believe in Cable, Russell, McFadden and Heyward-Bey, then 2009 could be the start of something exciting in Oakland. But for a franchise that's fallen on such hard times lately, it's difficult to be overly optimistic, especially given the major issues each of those key cogs has dealt with this offseason. With Kansas City and Denver looking average, the space is there for Oakland to climb the AFC West ladder -- it's just that a lot of things have to go right for a franchise that often sees them go wrong.

Oakland Raiders 2009 Season Preview: Forecast Still Mostly Cloudy originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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San Diego Chargers 2009 Preview: It Just Seems Like Phil and Norv's Time

Will Brinson — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: Chargers, AFC West, FanHouse Previews, NFL Analysis

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San Diego Chargers Photos

San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman runs during the Chargers NFL football practice held in San Diego Monday, Sept. 7, 2009. Authorities say San Diego Chargers star linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested on suspicion of choking and restraining his girlfriend, a reality TV star, as she tried to leave his Southern California home. San Diego County Sheriff's Lt. Gary Steadman says 27-year-old Tila Tequila signed a citizen's arrest warrant early Sunday, Sept. 6, 2009, charging Merriman with battery and false imprisonment. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

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San Deigo Chargers Photos

San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman, left, takes a break with teammates, Larry English, center, and Antwan Applewhite, right, during the Chargers NFL football practice held in San Diego Monday, Sept. 7, 2009. Authorities say San Diego Chargers star linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested on suspicion of choking and restraining his girlfriend, a reality TV star, as she tried to leave his Southern California home. San Diego County Sheriff's Lt. Gary Steadman says 27-year-old Tila Tequila signed a citizen's arrest warrant early Sunday, Sept. 6, 2009, charging Merriman with battery and false imprisonment. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman hits a blocking dummy during the Chargers NFL football practice held in San Diego Monday, Sept. 7, 2009. Authorities say San Diego Chargers star linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested on suspicion of choking and restraining his girlfriend, a reality TV star, as she tried to leave his Southern California home. San Diego County Sheriff's Lt. Gary Steadman says 27-year-old Tila Tequila signed a citizen's arrest warrant early Sunday, Sept. 6, 2009, charging Merriman with battery and false imprisonment. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman, left, drills with teammates during the Chargers NFL football practice held in San Diego Monday, Sept. 7, 2009. Authorities say San Diego Chargers star linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested on suspicion of choking and restraining his girlfriend, a reality TV star, as she tried to leave his Southern California home. San Diego County Sheriff's Lt. Gary Steadman says 27-year-old Tila Tequila signed a citizen's arrest warrant early Sunday, Sept. 6, 2009, charging Merriman with battery and false imprisonment. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman cools down during the Chargers NFL football practice held in San Diego Monday, Sept. 7, 2009. Authorities say San Diego Chargers star linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested on suspicion of choking and restraining his girlfriend, a reality TV star, as she tried to leave his Southern California home. San Diego County Sheriff's Lt. Gary Steadman says 27-year-old Tila Tequila signed a citizen's arrest warrant early Sunday, Sept. 6, 2009, charging Merriman with battery and false imprisonment. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman tosses a towel to a teammate during the Chargers NFL football practice held in San Diego Monday, Sept. 7, 2009. Authorities say San Diego Chargers star linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested on suspicion of choking and restraining his girlfriend, a reality TV star, as she tried to leave his Southern California home. San Diego County Sheriff's Lt. Gary Steadman says 27-year-old Tila Tequila signed a citizen's arrest warrant early Sunday, Sept. 6, 2009, charging Merriman with battery and false imprisonment. (AP Photo/Denis Poroy)

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Defense: Merriman's return is the biggest boost to this team's defense, naturally, because, steroids or no, he's a Pro Bowler and a game-changer who wrecks havoc. He immediately makes Luis Castillo and and Jamal Williams more effective on the defensive line while simultaneously improving the play of Quentin Jammer and Antonio Cromartie on the back end. The pass defense stunk the joint up in 2008, which gives some cause for concern, but if Merriman's healthy, the secondary will end up in the top end because opposing quarterbacks will have significantly less time to pick them apart. Heat Index: 8

Special Teams: Did I mention that Sproles was awesome? Yes. Yes, I did. What I didn't mention is that Sproles' awesomeness is only magnified by the fact that he can return punts and kicks. You know who else can do that well? That's right -- Cromartie. (He won't, of course, but if Sproles got hurt, he's destructive.) Nate Kaeding had a bit of a down year last year, but he's still one of the better kickers in the league, even if he's had struggles from long range and in the playoffs during previous seasons. Mike Scifries is also an excellent option at punter. Heat Index: 9

Coaching: Now, here's where it gets a little tricky; I've even gone so far as to name Norv Turner "Neckskin" (when not calling him "Norvell") because his sixth and seventh chins hang so low. I've always presumed this is because he usually coaches the second half of games and all playoff games with both hands firmly planted around his neck. However, it's worth noting that in the past few years, Norv's kind of kicked his "choker image" -- it's not that anyone thinks he's Bill Belichick, but Turner's losses with the Chargers haven't been primarily centered around his inability to coach the big game. Heat Index: 8

Intangibles: You've got to LOVE the division the Chargers come out of -- their only competition last year, the Broncos, pulled the biggest implosion in the history of sports this offseason. Aside from that? There's the rebuilding -- but potentially dangerous -- Chiefs and the Raiders, who need no introduction. Add in the fact that everyone seems to think it's "the Chargers time" based on losses in the playoffs the last few years, as well as the mental and physical toughness that this team has adopted because Rivers is a bigger badass than Chuck Norris and Jack Bauer combined* and it just seems like it's the year for the Chargers. Of course, sometimes that can be a negative thing, but even the team seems to be taking a different approach to 2009, with regard to expectations. Heat Index: 9

Total Heat Index: 44/50 -- And yeah, it's entirely possible that I'm only hurting the Chargers with these increased expectations, but really, find someone who follows the NFL and who hasn't already penciled them in for a playoff spot. They're almost locked in that sense, barring a horrible bad-luck-fueled start, and that will mean that, unlike previous years, they should be rested heading into the postseason and ready to rumble. If LdT comes back like many folks think he will, and Merriman stays healthy, this is one of two or three teams who should win the Super Bowl. And, no, those aren't even that big of if's either.

*Rampant NCSU homerism may apply

San Diego Chargers 2009 Preview: It Just Seems Like Phil and Norv's Time originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Denver QB Situation Getting Dire

Matt Snyder — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:40:00 EST

Filed under: Broncos, AFC West, NFL Injuries, NFL Quarterbacks

While it was thought there would be a transition for the Broncos offense this season, no one could have imagined the nightmare the Broncos may be facing in Week 1 of the 2009 season. In January, the Broncos had a Pro Bowler at the helm. In July, they had Kyle Orton, with Chris Simms backing him up. Now, it's entirely possible they head into Cincinnati on Sept. 13 with Tom Brandstater as their starting quarterback..

With Simms already on the shelf, Orton suffered a finger injury Sunday night against his former team, the Bears. The Denver Post is reporting that injury was an open dislocation to his right index finger.

Being right-handed, this poses a huge problem for Orton in terms of throwing the ball. As we all know, the index finger is of paramount importance when trying to throw a football. Still, Orton maintains he's going to be under center come Sept. 13.

"I will be ready to go," Orton said after the game Sunday while trying to hide his heavily bandaged, but not casted, right finger. "I am going to work as hard as I can. I don't know how long I'll be out, but mentally I will be ready to go and I think physically I will be too."

It's admirable that Orton is showing optimism and toughness, but with it being the index finger on his throwing hand, it's not going to be as easy as mind-over-matter. He's still going to have to be able to pass the football with some semblance of accuracy. If he's not, it's Brandstater time.

Brandstater, a rookie out of Fresno State, has completed 10 of 16 passes for 111 yards this preseason. He hasn't thrown a touchdown pass, but has thrown an interception and has been sacked four times. His quarterback rating is 57.0. Even worse news is that these numbers have mostly come against second or third string defenders.

Brandstater was a sixth-round pick for the Broncos after a senior year in which he completed 59.6 percent of his passes for 2.664 yards and 18 touchdowns, to go with 12 interceptions in 13 games.

If the football Gods really hate the Broncos and Brandstater gets hurt, Ingle Martin would be next in line. Martin has appeared in one career NFL game and never attempted a pass.

Also remember the Broncos are dealing with the Brandon Marshall fiasco in Training Camp as well.

Needless to say, Josh McDaniels could use a break. Maybe a miraculous healing job on Orton's index finger in the next two weeks is that break.

Denver QB Situation Getting Dire originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:40:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Broncos Suspend Brandon Marshall

Bruce Ciskie — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Broncos, AFC West

Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall wants a trade. His frustration got the best of him Wednesday, when cameras caught him misbehaving during practice.

It appears to have been the last straw in the ongoing saga between Denver and Marshall. The Broncos have suspended Marshall indefinitely for conduct detrimental to the team.

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Marshall was caught on video punting a ball away from the ball boy, instead of handing it to him, and was also seen running at much less than full speed during drills. He missed practice Thursday, but the team did not comment on his absence.

He told ESPN Thursday that he was sorry.

"Me punting the ball was definitely frustration," Marshall said. "It was an error in judgment. There was a lot of frustration (Wednesday) coming out of a meeting."

The suspension is effective immediately. The Broncos announced the move Friday morning, and head coach Josh McDaniels told the team of the decision.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on his Twitter page that the team could bring Marshall back for the regular-season opener Sept. 13, assuming he behaves himself between now and then. In the meantime, this could be a huge blow to Marshall's hopes of a trade. It's highly unlikely that the Broncos would get anything close to true value back for a very talented receiver, when it's so obvious that the situation between player and team is this bad.

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Denver Broncos Photos

SEATTLE - AUGUST 22: Running back T.J. Duckett #44 of the Seattle Seahawks rushes against D.J. Williams #55 of the Denver Broncos on August 22, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 27-13. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** D.J. Williams;T.J. Duckett

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Denver Broncos Photos

In this 2008 photo provided by the NFL, New England Patriots offensive lineman Russ Hochstein is shown. The Patriots have traded Hochstein to the Denver Broncos for an undisclosed draft choice, Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2009. Hochstein, a fifth-round draft pick by Tampa Bay in 2001, began with New England on the practice squad in 2002 and played in 91 games in the past seven seasons. (AP Photo/NFL) ** NO SALES **

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh celebrates with teammates Deion Branch (83) and Ray Willis, right, after Houshmandzadeh caught a ball for a touchdown in the second quarter of an NFL preseason football game against the Denver Broncos, Saturday, Aug. 22, 2009, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)

SEATTLE - AUGUST 22: Max Unger #60 of the Seattle Seahawks pass protects for quarterback Mike Teel #14 against Matthias Askew #99 of the Denver Broncos on August 22, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 27-13. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Matthias Askew;Mike Teel;Max Unger

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SEATTLE - AUGUST 22: Tight end Joe Newton #46 of the Seattle Seahawks makes a touchdown catch in the endzone against Alphonso Smith #33 of the Denver Broncos on August 22, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 27-13. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Joe Newton

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SEATTLE - AUGUST 22: Defensive end Nick Reed #98 of the Seattle Seahawks just misses blocking a punt by Britton Colquitt #4 of the Denver Broncos on August 22, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 27-13. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Britton Colquitt;Nick Reed

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SEATTLE - AUGUST 22: Alphonso Smith #33 of the Denver Broncos rushes against the Seattle Seahawks on August 22, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 27-13. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Alphonso Smith

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SEATTLE - AUGUST 22: Running back Devin Moore #30 of the Seattle Seahawks rushes against D.J. Johnson #35 of the Denver Broncos on August 22, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 27-13. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Devin Moore

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SEATTLE - AUGUST 22: Running back Darius Walker #34 of the Denver Broncos rushes against the Seattle Seahawks on August 22, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 27-13. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Darius Walker

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SEATTLE - AUGUST 22: Quarterback Kyle Orton #8 of the Denver Broncos passes against the Seattle Seahawks on August 22, 2009 at Qwest Field in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Broncos 27-13. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** Kyle Orton

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Broncos Suspend Brandon Marshall originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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