NFL FanHouse http://nfl.fanhouse.com NFL FanHouse http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/media/feedlogo.gif NFL FanHouse http://nfl.fanhouse.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Welcome to 'The T.O. Show'http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/07/20/welcome-to-the-t-o-show/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/07/20/welcome-to-the-t-o-show/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/07/20/welcome-to-the-t-o-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Elie Seckbach, the Embedded Correspondent, brings his exclusive video reporting to FanHouse. Check back regularly for more videos.

Terrell OwensNFL star Terrell Owens is always in the spotlight, so why not give him his own reality show? That's exactly what VH1 is doing. In advance of his show's premiere, T.O. tells us how fans will get to see a different side of him. We also hear from former NFL lineman and ESPN analyst Marcellus Wiley as well as Giants rookie receiver Ramses Barden.

Check out the video after the jump.

Welcome to 'The T.O. Show' originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>marcellus wileyramses bardenterrell owensElie SeckbachMon, 20 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST Felix Jones Shows Support for Tulsa; Eyes Big Second Seasonhttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/05/09/felix-jones-shows-support-for-tulsa-eyes-big-second-season/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/05/09/felix-jones-shows-support-for-tulsa-eyes-big-second-season/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/05/09/felix-jones-shows-support-for-tulsa-eyes-big-second-season/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Felix JonesThe Falcons' Matt Ryan was the Associated Press' NFL offensive rookie of the year last season. It was well deserved after completing 61.1 percent of his passes and throwing 16 touchdowns with a quarterback rating of 87.7.

But for the first three weeks of the season, Cowboys running back Felix Jones was the leader. In fact, he won all the primaries. Jones scored a touchdowns in the first three weeks of the season, including the first carry of his career at Cleveland. Jones scored on an 11-yard run, a 60-yard run, 33-yard scamper and how could we forget his 98-yard kickoff return for a score?
Jones' season was hampered by offensive coordinator Jason Garrett's inability to get him the ball in a Week 4 loss to Washington. In Week 6 when the team lost quarterback Tony Romo, Jones suffered a hamstring injury against Arizona.

When Jones was rehabbing his hamstring, he injured his big toe which eventually required season-ending surgery.

Jones now says he's 90 percent healthy and when the season begins he will wear a specifically designed sole to fit his foot to give it more comfort when he cuts and pushes off.

But why are we talking about Jones in the middle of the NBA playoffs? Simple. Jones, like several NFL players, hasn't forgotten where he came from.

Over the last three days, Jones has hosted a charity event in his hometown of Tulsa, to support the youth in his city roughly three hours away from Dallas.

"It's my way of thanking all the people who helped me growing up in Tulsa," Jones said. "This is a big opportunity for me to play for the Dallas Cowboys and comeback here to my community and I appreciate everything they've done for me."

Several of Jones' teammates attended the three-day event which had a black-tie fundraiser, a free football camp and life-skills training.

One of the players who was scheduled to visit was Jones' teammate running back Tashard Choice.

It is Choice who wants the Cowboys to emerge into what the Giants became did last season: a fierce running attack.

The Giants three-headed monster nicknamed, Earth, Wind and Fire, led the NFL in rushing at 157.4 yards per game. New York was one of three teams to average over 150 yards per game and the Giants were the only team to average five yards per carry.

Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones wants that for his team. Marion Barber will remain the starter but the Cowboys want to use a healthy Felix Jones and Choice as the middle relievers to set up Barber as the closer.

Choice told Jones the team is looking for a nickname for the trio.

Latest Dallas Cowboys Images

    -- FILE -- In this Nov. 22, 2007, file photo, New York Jets quarterback Kellen Clemens looks to pass during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Irving, Texas. Clemens was considered the favorite to be the starting quarterback until the team traded up from No. 17 to No. 5 and took a player they believe is the future of the franchise. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez,file)

    AP

    Newly-signed free agent Cincinnati Bengals safety Roy Williams answers questions with head coach Marvin Lewis, left, during a news conference at the Bengals NFL football stadium, Thursday, May 7, 2009, in Cincinnati. Williams had gone to five pro bowls during his seven seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. (AP Photo/Al Behrman)

    AP

    Newly-signed free agent Cincinnati Bengals safety Roy Williams smiles during a news conference at the Bengals NFL football stadium, Thursday, May 7, 2009, in Cincinnati. Williams had gone to five pro bowls during his seven seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. (AP Photo/Al Behrman)

    AP

    In this undated photo released by the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority on May 6, 2009, the inside of a collapsed Summit Structure warehouse type building is shown in Philadelphia. The company that built the collapsed Dallas Cowboys' training facility also manufactured at least three other buildings that have fallen in heavy weather since 2002, according to court records. The other tentlike facilities manufactured by Allentown, Pa.-based Summit Structures LLC or its related company, Cover-All Building Systems, were warehouse-type buildings in Philadelphia and upstate New York and an indoor arena for horse competition in Oregon. All the buildings fell in conditions that included heavy snow, according to records and interviews. (AP Photo/Philadelphia Regional Port Authority)

    AP

    In this undated photo released by the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority on May 6, 2009, a collapsed Summit Structure warehouse type building is shown in Philadelphia. The company that built the collapsed Dallas Cowboys' training facility also manufactured at least three other buildings that have fallen in heavy weather since 2002, according to court records. The other tentlike facilities manufactured by Allentown, Pa.-based Summit Structures LLC or its related company, Cover-All Building Systems, were warehouse-type buildings in Philadelphia and upstate New York and an indoor arena for horse competition in Oregon. All the buildings fell in conditions that included heavy snow, according to records and interviews. (AP Photo/Philadelphia Regional Port Authority)

    AP

    In this undated photo released by the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority on May 6, 2009, a collapsed Summit Structure warehouse-type building is shown in Philadelphia. The company that built the collapsed Dallas Cowboys' training facility also manufactured at least three other buildings that have fallen in heavy weather since 2002, according to court records. The other tentlike facilities manufactured by Allentown, Pa.-based Summit Structures LLC or its related company, Cover-All Building Systems, were warehouse-type buildings in Philadelphia and upstate New York and an indoor arena for horse competition in Oregon. All the buildings fell in conditions that included heavy snow, according to records and interviews. (AP Photo/Philadelphia Regional Port Authority)

    AP

    The Dallas Cowboys football practice facility is shown during a storm, through the windshield taken with a camera phone from Rick Seno in Irving, Texas on Saturday, May 2, 2009. Government inspectors sorted through the Dallas Cowboys' flattened practice facility Monday, May 4, 2009, trying to figure out why fierce winds sent the tentlike structure crashing during a rookie workout session. (AP Photo/The Dallas Morning News, Rick Seno) ** NO MAGS, NO SALES, INTERNET OK **

    AP

    This Friday, May 1, 2009 photo released by the Dallas Cowboys shows special teams coach Joe DeCamillis, 43, during a football rookie mini camp in Irving, Texas. DeCamillis sustained a fracture of one of his cervical vertebrae after the team's indoor practice facility collapsed during a high wind, Saturday, May 2, 2009. The fracture was surgically repaired and he is scheduled to be released from the hospital later this week. (AP Photo/Dallas Cowboys, James D. Smith) ** NO SALES **

    AP

    Dallas Cowboys rookie tight end John Phillips (89) helps search for trapped team and staff after the Cowboys' indoor facility collapse on Saturday, May 2, 2009 in Irving, Texas. (Ron Jenkins/Fort Worth Star-Telegram/MCT)

    MCT

    This April 26, 2008 photo made in Irving, Texas, and released by the Dallas Cowboys shows scouting assistant Rich Behm, 33, who sustained a fracture to the Thoracic spine after the team's indoor canopy collapsed Saturday, May 2, 2009 during a high wind. The fracture caused a severing of the spinal cord at that level causing permanent paralysis from the waist down. (AP Photo/Dallas Cowboys) ** NO SALES **

    AP


Jones said maybe Flash, Dash and Smash.

Whichever name is used, Jones expects to contribute. He averaged 8.9 yards per carry last season and finished the season eighth in the league in kickoff return average at 27.1.

"It was tough last year," he said of watching games while being hurt. "I produced a little bit and played a role and it just stopped as soon as it started. [The injury] has made me a lot stronger and it made me aware of how I need to prepare myself to stay on the field."

This weekend, Jones is off the field, relaxing with the people who moved him out of Tulsa, to Arkansas and later a first-round pick in the NFL.

"It means a great deal to me to have my teammates here with me," Jones said. "It shows what type of people they are. And I didn't want to wait four or five years to make my mark. I wanted to do it now."

Felix Jones Shows Support for Tulsa; Eyes Big Second Season originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sat, 09 May 2009 13:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>felixjonesjason garrettJasonGarrettjerry jonesJerryJonesmatt ryanMattRyanCalvin WatkinsSat, 09 May 2009 13:30:00 EST Pro Bowl? Not for This Miserable Bunchhttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/02/08/pro-bowl-not-for-this-miserable-bunch/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/02/08/pro-bowl-not-for-this-miserable-bunch/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/02/08/pro-bowl-not-for-this-miserable-bunch/#commentsFiled under: ,

There's not much magic to the Pro Bowl anymore, despite the presence of the best players from the NFC and AFC facing off against each other ... well, the best players that felt like playing an extra, meaningless exhibition after the season ended.

Still, Sunday's rosters host an impressive list of talent. But not every NFL player enjoyed the success that those in Hawaii did. For every Peyton Manning, there was a Dan Orlovsky. For every Adrian Peterson, there was a Chris Perry. So which players suffered through the most miserable 2008 seasons? Find out after the jump, as FanHouse reveals its Anti-Pro Bowl starters and backups.

Pro Bowl? Not for This Miserable Bunch originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sun, 08 Feb 2009 10:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Chris BurkeSun, 08 Feb 2009 10:30:00 EST GM Awards MVP Car on the Slyhttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/02/03/gm-hands-out-mvp-car-on-the-dl/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/02/03/gm-hands-out-mvp-car-on-the-dl/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/02/03/gm-hands-out-mvp-car-on-the-dl/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The MVP of the Super Bowl traditionally receives the Cadillac of their choice. It's a grand, post-game spectacle, really, because General Motors loves the attention and PR.

This year, however, there was no such pomp for Santonio Holmes. Was it because the car company needed several billion dollars from taxpayers to stay afloat and decided giving away free cars to rich athletes was a bad idea? Or was it because the company simply didn't want anyone to know that's exactly how they were spending their money?
Holmes picked out Cadillac's most expensive model Monday as his reward for winning the MVP: the Escalade Hybrid Platinum with an $85,200 sticker price, according to Cadillac spokeswoman Joanne Krell.

There was no mention of Cadillac or of Holmes winning the car at the news conference. It was at the request of Cadillac, commissioner Roger Goodell told the Daily News Monday. When asked if Cadillac asked not to be mentioned, he said, "Yes."
Wow. It certainly comes off as a little awkward. After all, no portion of the taxpayers' nearly $10 billion should be going directly into Holmes' garage. It is worth noting, however, that Cadillac and GMC purposely stayed away, citing the decision not to "actively participate" based on the current economic climate.

Additionally, Krell mentioned that the company had to "live up to the contract we negotiated," implying that they were still required to give the MVP a car, even though it makes horrible fiscal sense. That being said, it's kind of hard to imagine Cadillac breaking the contract with the NFL -- any legal tit-for-tat that ensued would end up costing everyone way more than $83,000.

The good news is that apparently GM at least learned to stop flaunting their expenses to the public. And that, um, it's a hybrid.




GM Awards MVP Car on the Sly originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 21:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Roger GoddellRogerGoddellSantonio HolmesSantonioHolmesWill BrinsonTue, 03 Feb 2009 21:45:00 EST James Harrison Named Defensive Player of the Year, Ed Reed Demands Recounthttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/01/05/james-harrison-named-defensive-player-of-the-year-ed-reed-deman/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/01/05/james-harrison-named-defensive-player-of-the-year-ed-reed-deman/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/01/05/james-harrison-named-defensive-player-of-the-year-ed-reed-deman/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I'll admit it: I'm shocked. James Harrison has been named the NFL's 2008 Defensive Player of the Year. I certainly thought he deserved to be in the conversation, and since I'm a Steelers fan, I'm obviously happy for him. But I also fully expect the Ed Reed and DeMarcus Ware supporters to make a spirited case for why their guy got hosed.

Fair enough.

It's hard to dispute Reed's ability to blow your mind on a weekly basis, but he got off to a slow start (only one pick in the first 10 games, which, when you consider that he wasn't supposed to be playing -- maybe ever again -- is impressive in its own right), but the eight interceptions over the final six weeks of the season puts him in the mix. That he had a lot to do with the Ravens' making it to the postseason further strengthens his case.

Ware, on the other hand, recorded 20 sacks, but the Cowboys, like the rest of us, watched the playoffs from the couch last weekend. I know, I know, playing on a team not coached by Wade Phillips doesn't automatically disqualify you for Player of the Year, but there's no way Ware gets it over Harrison or Reed, two guys still playing.

Harrison (his teammates call him Deebo, no idea why) finished the 2008 regular season with 16 sacks, seven forced fumbles, one interception, and one safety. And as you've heard countless times by now, Pittsburgh and Baltimore both released him early in his career, and he served a stint in NFL Europe before finally finding a home with the Steelers.

Harrison replaced Joey Porter as the starting right outside linebacker last season, and even though Mr. Peezy had spectacular year in Miami, I'm guessing Pittsburgh's quite content with their current set-up.

Next up for Deebo: trying to slow up the Norv Turner All-Stars, a task much tougher in January, apparently.

James Harrison Named Defensive Player of the Year, Ed Reed Demands Recount originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Demarcus WareDemarcusWareEd ReedEdReedJames HarrisonJamesHarrisonJoey PorterJoeyPorterNorv TurnerNorvTurnerWade PhillipsWadePhillipsRyan WilsonMon, 05 Jan 2009 13:00:00 EST Falcons' Mike Smith Narrowly Wins NFL Coach of the Year Over Tony Sparanohttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/01/04/falcons-mike-smith-narrowly-wins-nfl-coach-of-the-year-over-ton/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/01/04/falcons-mike-smith-narrowly-wins-nfl-coach-of-the-year-over-ton/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/01/04/falcons-mike-smith-narrowly-wins-nfl-coach-of-the-year-over-ton/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

I'm sure it comes as no consolation today -- following a playoff loss to the Arizona Cardinals -- but Mike Smith of the Atlanta Falcons has won NFL Coach of the Year honors in his first season. Smith took on an unenviable task, as the Falcons appeared to be in shambles following the Michael Vick debacle and Bobby Petrino leaving during his first season, but he came through with an incredible performance. They finished 11-5 and made the playoffs after a 4-12 2007 season.

Smith won the award by the narrowest of margins, taking down Miami Dolphins' rookie coach, Tony Sparano, by one vote, 23.5 to 22.5. Yeah, someone voted a half-vote for each coach. I don't quite understand that. Just make a decision. Either way, that only leaves four more votes from the 50 total. Jeff Fisher of the Titans received three, and Bill Belichick garnered one.

Sparano took over a 1-15 Dolphins team and improved on that record by 10, getting them back into the playoffs for the first time since 2001.

Obviously, Fisher did a nice job with the Titans just like he does every year, and you have to give credit to Belichick for keeping the Pats afloat after Tom Brady went down in Week 1. They battled many other injuries all season as well.

I was surprised, however, that John Harbaugh of the Ravens didn't get any votes. He, at the very least, deserved consideration for righting the ship in Baltimore in the wake of last season's meltdown.

Falcons' Mike Smith Narrowly Wins NFL Coach of the Year Over Tony Sparano originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sun, 04 Jan 2009 13:36:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>bill belichickBillBelichickjeff fisherJeffFisherjohn harbaughJohnHarbaughmike smithMikeSmithtony sparanoTonySparanoMatt SnyderSun, 04 Jan 2009 13:36:00 EST Patriots Linebacker Jerod Mayo Named Defensive Rookie of the Yearhttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/31/patriots-linebacker-jerod-mayo-named-defensive-rookie-of-the-yea/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/31/patriots-linebacker-jerod-mayo-named-defensive-rookie-of-the-yea/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/31/patriots-linebacker-jerod-mayo-named-defensive-rookie-of-the-yea/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Despite having their first-round pick taken away for their top-secret advanced scouting techniques, the New England Patriots still had a first-round pick in the 2008 NFL draft, thanks to a shrewd deal during the 2007 NFL draft that landed them San Francisco's pick in '08. And because the 49ers were pretty lousy in 2007, the Patriots ended up with the No. 10 overall selection following a 16-0 regular season, and a trip to the Super Bowl.

With the No. 10 pick, the Patriots selected linebacker Jerod Mayo from the University of Tennessee, and he became an instant star in the New England defense, starting every game for the Patriots and recording 128 tackles (five for loss), four pass defenses, and a forced fumble. For his efforts, Mayo was named the NFL's defensive rookie of the year on Wednesday, picking up 49 of a possible 50 votes.

According to Pro Football Talk, the 50th vote went to Bengals rookie linebacker Keith Rivers for the seven games he played during the season. I'm going to take a wild guess and say Rivers' vote came from someone who happens to work in Cincinnati. If you're not going to vote for Mayo, who was pretty obviously the best rookie on the defensive side of the ball, the No. 2 choice probably should have been Arizona's Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie for his 19 pass defenses, four interceptions, blocked kick and one touchdown.

Patriots Linebacker Jerod Mayo Named Defensive Rookie of the Year originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 11:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Dominique Rodgers-CromartieDominiqueRodgers-cromartieJerod MayoJerodMayoKeith RiversKeithRiversAdam GretzWed, 31 Dec 2008 11:45:00 EST FanHouse 'Experts' Pick NFL Award Winnershttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/30/fanhouse-experts-pick-nfl-award-winners/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/30/fanhouse-experts-pick-nfl-award-winners/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/30/fanhouse-experts-pick-nfl-award-winners/#commentsFiled under:

As the regular season concluded, the FanHouse football writers all got together in a secret meeting in Will Brinson's mother's basement to discuss the players of the year. Who was the best coach? Which rookie stood out? Who was the most valuable player?

After much deliberation (and tons of meatloaf), here are the FanHouse NFL Award Winners. Only players/coaches who got votes were included in the final results.

Defensive Player of the Year

Justin Tuck, NY Giants -- 10 percent
Shaun Rogers, Cleveland -- 10 percent
Albert Haynesworth, Tennessee -- 15 percent
Jared Allen, Minnesota -- 20 percent
DeMarcus Ware, Dallas -- 45 percent

His last game not withstanding, can you really argue with 20 sacks? The Cowboys' linebacker was also involved in 84 tackles and six forced fumbles in 2008.

Offensive Player of the Year

Andre Johnson, Houston -- 10 percent
Peyton Manning, Indianapolis -- 30 percent
Drew Brees, New Orleans -- 20 percent
DeAngelo Williams, Carolina -- 40 percent

It is one thing to lead the NFL in rushing touchdowns. It is a whole other to do so when you don't score in your first four games. Williams rushed for over 1,515 yards, had had five multi-touchdown games (including two with four scores) and even caught two in the end zone.

Coach of the Year

Tony Sparano, Miami -- 20 percent
Mike Smith, Atlanta -- 80 percent

You had to do something pretty impressive to smoke a coach who took his team from one win a year ago to the playoffs. That just shows how impressive Smith and his Falcons have been. A 4-11 squad last year with absolutely no upside (Joey Harrington was the leading passer in 11 games), Smith turned Atlanta into an 11-5 team with a rookie quarterback and first-time starting running back.

Comeback of the Year

Kyle Orton, Chicago -- 20 percent
Dunta Robinson, Houston -- 30 percent
Jake Delhomme, Carolina -- 50 percent

A year after Tommy John Surgery on his elbow, Delhomme threw for 3,288 yards, 15 touchdowns and has the Panthers in the playoffs at 12-4.

Offensive Rookie of the Year

Matt Forte, Chicago -- 10 percent
Chris Johnson, Tennessee -- 10 percent
Matt Ryan, Atlanta -- 80 percent

Because 2008 was the Year of the Offensive Rookie, picking one might have been tougher if Ryan hadn't been so darn good. Composed, collected and downright cool, Matty Ice was the player that kept you eying Atlanta on the corner TV at the bar.

Defensive Rookie of the Year

Chris Horton, Washington -- 20 percent
Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie, Arizona -- 30 percent
Jerod Mayo, New England -- 50 percent

When your team is 11-5 and you are the leading tackler by nearly 50 tackles, winning an award as the top rookie is fairly inevitable. On an aging defense like the Patriots, Mayo is the one young guy the team can build around.

Most Valuable Player

Drew Brees, New Orleans -- 10 percent
Albert Haynesworth, Tennessee -- 10 percent
DeAngelo Williams, Carolina -- 15 percent
Peyton Manning, Indianapolis -- 65 percent

In terms of value, nothing comes close to Manning. Brees was fantastic but his team couldn't win. Haynesworth was a beast but the injury late in the year hurt his chances. Williams was the best rusher in the league at the end of the season but the Panthers still have Jonathan Stewart. Without Peyton, this team might have won six games. An ending run of 9-0, the Colts can attribute all their success to Manning in 2008. A truly magnificent year.

FanHouse 'Experts' Pick NFL Award Winners originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Albert HaynesworthAlbertHaynesworthAndre JohnsonAndreJohnsonChris HortonChris JohnsonChrisHortonChrisJohnsonDeAngelo WilliamsDeangeloWilliamsDeMarcus WareDemarcusWaredominiquerodgers-cromartieDrew BreesDrewBreesDunta RobinsonDuntaRobinsonJake DelhommeJakeDelhommeJared AllenJaredAllenJerod MayoJerodMayoJustin TuckJustinTuckKyle OrtonKyleOrtonMatt ForteMatt RyanMattForteMattRyanMike SmithMikeSmithPeyton ManningPeytonManningShaun RogersShaunRogersTony SparanoTonySparanoShane BaconTue, 30 Dec 2008 14:00:00 EST The NFL's Dumbest Plays of 2008http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/17/the-nfls-dumbest-plays-of-2008/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/17/the-nfls-dumbest-plays-of-2008/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/17/the-nfls-dumbest-plays-of-2008/#commentsFiled under: ,

It doesn't matter your affiliation to a certain team, we can all admit that, during a sports year, athletes make just as many idiotic decisions on the field as they do off it. You have backward passes, premature celebrations, and rare "I'm not even sure what was supposed to be happening there" plays that can make you go bald from all the head scratching. This year was no different in the NFL, and here is what we came up with as the NFL's dumbest plays of 2008.

Dan Orlovsky's Phantom Safety -- Do you want to know how bad this play actually was? When bringing this idea up to the FanHouse football group, all I had to say about this play was, "Dan Orlovsky." Everyone knew which play I was talking about. The poor guy was thrown into a terrible situation in Detroit, and decided his legacy was going to be "running out of the back of the end zone without ever really knowing what went on." Running out of the end zone as a quarterback is one thing ... not knowing you did so and continuing the play is quite another. I can guarantee Orlovsky one thing -- his video will be shown by high-school coaches all around the nation as what not to do when stuffed back by your own end zone.

The Free Kick Attempt by Neil Rackers -- It sure wasn't the dumbest play of the year, but it was definitely the most confusing. With five seconds left in the first half against the Giants, Ken Whisenhunt actually made the decision to opt for a "free kick," even though nobody knew what in the world a free kick was. Rackers set the ball up on a tee, rared back his heavy leg and ... muffed it. Not only was it unsuccessful, but it gave the Giants a chance to return it. I guess the good news was that we learned what a free kick was and that Rackers has no 68-yard leg.

Oakland Attempting a Fake Field goal with Sebastian Janikowski -- Making fun of someone's weight isn't exactly original, so I'll say this as caringly as I possibly can -- Janikowski isn't exactly being approached by friends about throwing up his lunch in the bathroom. That said, the Raiders thought a fake field goal was in order against the Chiefs, even though Kansas City's offense looked as likely to score as Screech did with Lisa. The pitch went between Janikowski's legs, and Maurice Leggett picked it up and ran it back for a touchdown, making the score 10-3 and leaving everyone in the stadium wondering when baseball season starts up again. You know it is a bad play when someone makes a YouTube clip of it to the "Jackass" theme.



Sage Rosenfels Becomes Rosenchoppa -- The Texans were up 17 points over the Colts in Week Five before Rosenfels decided to hand Peyton Manning the game like a valet handing out keys. The whole fourth quarter was terrible, but the play everyone remembers was the jump-dive-helicopter move that resulted in a fumble-turned-touchdown for the Colts. Nobody really knew was Sage was doing, but it gave us some great video. In his next three starts at quarterback, Rosenfels went 0-3.

Janikowski Attempts 76-Yarder -- Our first two-time nominee, but that probably isn't fair. Janikowski isn't to blame for being forced to run on the field at the end of the half and attempt a 76-yard field goal. Lane Kiffin, in his last days before being canned by Al Davis, almost looked like he trying to lose his job with this move. The Raiders were up 15 points and playing the Chargers, who Brinson points out has a guy with the longest field-goal return ever, and were trying a field goal 13 yards longer than the NFL record. Not like I enjoy dashing the suspense, but Janikowski didn't make it.

Jets Attempt a Reverse In Rainy Conditions -- The Jets had won five straight games, were in the middle of Super Bowl talk and were arguably the hottest team in the world that played with an oval ball. With Denver traveling east, a team that had struggled on the road, this was a victory before they even kicked off, right? Well, Eric Mangini decided that in rainy conditions, a reverse on their side of the field was a good idea, and it led to the Broncos' first of four touchdowns. Brad Smith took the direct snap and tried to reverse it to Jerricho Cotchery, but the ball slipped out and the Broncos recovered it and returned it for a touchdown. Momentum, meet the Broncos. The Jets never recovered from that and haven't been the same since.

The DeSean Jackson Fumble -- Jackson is a rookie, and looks to have a solid career ahead of him, but this was one of those plays that may never go away. Week Two, Eagles versus Cowboys, Monday Night Football, what more could you ask for? Donovan McNabb tosses one of the better passes of his season, a bullet over the middle to Jackson for what appeared to be a 60-yard touchdown, but Jackson celebrated a touch too early. Replays showed that DeSean tossed the ball before crossing the goal line, which would have been easily recovered by the Cowboys if not for a whistle and touchdown signal. The call was overturned, the Eagles got the ball back and Brian Westbrook rushed it in for a touchdown. The score stayed the same, but Jackson's career never will.

The NFL's Dumbest Plays of 2008 originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Al DavisAlDavisBrad SmithBradSmithBrian WestbrookBrianWestbrookDan OrlovskyDanOrlovskyDesean JacksonDeseanJacksonDonovan McNabbDonovanMcnabbEric ManginiEricManginiJerricho cotcheryJerrichoCotcheryKen WhisenhuntKenWhisenhuntLane KiffinLaneKiffinMaurice LeggettMauriceLeggettNeil RackersNeilRackersPeyton manningPeytonManningSage RosenfelsSageRosenfelssebastian janikowskiSebastianJanikowskiShane BaconWed, 17 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST 2009 Pro Bowl Players Announcedhttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/16/2009-pro-bowl-players-announced/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/16/2009-pro-bowl-players-announced/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/12/16/2009-pro-bowl-players-announced/#commentsFiled under:


The AFC and NFC Pro Bowlers were announced a short while ago, and why make some pointless comment you are sure not to laugh at when we can just give you the rosters instead? Here goes.

AFC (starers, followed by their reserves)

QB -- Peyton Manning, Colts. Brett Favre, Jets. Jay Cutler, Broncos.
RB -- Thomas Jones, Jets. Chris Johnson, Titans. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins.
FB -- Le'Ron McClain, Ravens.
WR -- Andre Johnson, Texans and Brandon Marshall, Broncos; Reggie Wayne, Colts. Wes Welker, Patriots.
TE -- Tony Gonzalez, Chiefs. Antonio Gates, Chargers.
T -- Joe Thomas, Browns and Jason Peters, Bills. Michael Roos, Titans.
G -- Alan Faneca, Jets and Kris Dielman, Chargers. Brian Waters, Chiefs.
C -- Kevin Mawae, Titans. Nick Mangold, Jets.
DE -- Mario Williams, Texans and Dwight Freeney, Colts. Robert Mathis, Colts.
DT -- Albert Haynesworth, Titans and Kris Jenkins, Jets. Shaun Rogers, Browns.
OLB -- James Harrison, Steelers and Joey Porter, Dolphins. Terrell Suggs, Ravens.
MLB -- Ray Lewis, Ravens. James Farrior, Steelers.
CB -- Nnamdi Asomugha, Raiders and Courtland Finnegan, Titans. Darrelle Revis, Jets.
S -- Ed Reed, Ravens and Troy Polamalu, Steelers. Chris Hope, Titans.
K -- Stephan Gostkowski, Patriots.
P -- Shane Lechler, Raiders.
KR -- Leon Washington, Jets.
ST -- Brendon Ayanbadejo, Ravens.

NFC

QB -- Kurt Warner, Cardinals. Drew Brees, Saints. Eli Manning, Giants.
RB -- Adrian Peterson, Vikings. Michael Turner, Falcons. Clinton Portis, Redskins.
FB -- Mike Sellers, Redskins.
WR -- Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, Cardinals. Steve Smith, Panthers. Roddy White, Falcons.
TE -- Jason Witten, Cowboys. Chris Cooley, Redskins.
T -- Jordan Gross, Panthers and Walter Jones, Seahawks. Chris Samuels, Redskins.
G -- Chris Snee, Giants and Steve Hutchinson, Vikings. Leonard Davis, Cowboys.
C -- Andre Gurode, Cowboys. Shaun O'Hara, Giants.
DE -- Justin Tuck, Giants and Julius Peppers, Panthers. Jared Allen, Vikings.
DT -- Kevin Williams, Vikings and Jay Ratliff, Cowboys; Pat Williams, Vikings
OLB -- DeMarcus Ware, Cowboys and Lance Briggs, Bears. Derrick Brooks, Buccaneers.
ILB -- Patrick Willis, 49ers. Jon Beason, Panthers.
CB -- Charles Woodson, Packers and Antoine Winfield, Vikings. Asante Samuel, Eagles.
S -- Nick Collins, Packers and Adrian Wilson, Cardinals. Brian Dawkins, Eagles.
K -- John Carney, Giants.
P -- Jeff Feagles, Giants.
KR -- Clifton Smith, Buccaneers.
ST -- Sean Morey, Cardinals.

2009 Pro Bowl Players Announced originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 17:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>adrian petersonadrian wilsonAdrianPetersonAdrianWilsonAlan FanecaAlanFanecaAlbert HaynesworthAlbertHaynesworthandre gurodeAndre JohnsonAndreGurodeAndreJohnsonanquan boldinAnquanBoldinantoine winfieldAntoineWinfieldAntonio GatesAntonioGatesasante samuelAsanteSamuelBrandon MarshallBrandonMarshallBrendon AyanbadejoBrendonAyanbadejoBrett FavreBrettFavrebrian dawkinsBrian WatersBrianDawkinsBrianWaterscharles woodsonCharlesWoodsonchris cooleychris hopeChris Johnsonchris samuelschris sneeChrisCooleyChrisHopeChrisJohnsonChrisSamuelsChrisSneeclifton smithCliftonSmithclinton portisClintonPortiscourtland finneganCourtlandFinnegandarrelle revisDarrelleRevisdemarcus wareDemarcusWarederrick brooksDerrickBrooksDrew breesDrewBreesDwight FreeneyDwightFreeneyed reedEdReedeli manningEliManningjames farriorJames HarrisonJamesFarriorJamesHarrisonjared allenJaredAllenJason Petersjason wittenJasonPetersJasonWittenJay Cutlerjay ratliffJayCutlerJayRatliffjeff feaglesJeffFeaglesJoe thomasJoeThomasJoey PorterJoeyPorterjohn carneyJohnCarneyjon beasonJonBeasonjordan grossJordanGrossjulius peppersJuliusPeppersjustin tuckJustinTuckKevin Mawaekevin williamsKevinMawaeKevinWilliamsKris DielmanKris JenkinsKrisDielmanKrisJenkinsKurt WarnerKurtWarnerlance briggsLanceBriggslarry fitzgeraldLarryFitzgeraldLeon Washingtonleonard davisLeonardDavisLeonWashingtonLeron McclainLeronMcclainMario WilliamsMarioWilliamsMichael Roosmichael turnerMichaelRoosMichaelTurnermike sellersMikeSellersnick collinsNick MangoldNickCollinsNickMangoldnnamdi asomughaNnamdiAsomughapat williamspatrick willisPatrickWillisPatWilliamsPeyton ManningPeytonManningRay lewisRayLewisReggie WayneReggieWayneRobert MathisRobertMathisroddy whiteRoddyWhiteRonnie BrownRonnieBrownsean moreySeanMoreyShane LechlarShaneLechlarshaun oharaShaun RogersShaunOharaShaunRogersStephan GostkowskiStephanGostkowskisteve hutchinsonsteve smithSteveHutchinsonSteveSmithTerrell SuggsTerrellSuggsThomas JonesThomasJonesTony GonzalezTonyGonzaleztroy polamaluTroyPolamaluwalter jonesWalterJonesWes WelkerWesWelkerShane BaconTue, 16 Dec 2008 17:25:00 EST End the Debate: Kurt Warner is the NFL MVPhttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/11/11/end-the-debate-kurt-warner-is-the-nfl-mvp/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/11/11/end-the-debate-kurt-warner-is-the-nfl-mvp/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/11/11/end-the-debate-kurt-warner-is-the-nfl-mvp/#commentsFiled under: , ,


While the Cardinals were only playing the lowly 49ers last night, Kurt Warner showed, once again, why he has been the most valuable player in the NFL. This time he did so on a national stage.

With most of his teammates struggling -- bad kick coverage, stupid penalties, no running lanes provided by the offensive line, poor tackling, allowing Shaun Hill to throw two touchdowns, etc. -- Warner took the bull by the proverbial horns and willed his team to victory.

Sure, you have to give an assist to the gawdawful play-calling by the Niners at the end of the game, but Warner won this game. He completed 32 of 42 passes for 328 yards and three touchdowns with nary a turnover. That's good for a 121.9 QB rating, upping his season-long rating to a league high 106.4. He ranks second in both touchdown passes (19, leader Philip Rivers has 21) and passing yards (2760, leader Drew Brees has compiled 2985). Warner is also completing an absurd 70.6 percent of his pass attempts on the season, and has only thrown six picks. So yeah, the seasonal stats are there.

The consistency is there as well. Warner hasn't had a game with less than a 81.5 rating. He's thrown for at least 190 yards in every game, with five games being 300+ and an downright obscene 472 in Week 4. There has not been a single game where Warner didn't come through with at least one touchdown toss ... and only once did he stop with just one (Week 1, so he's got a streak of eight straight games with at least two touchdowns).

Most importantly, Kurt Warner has the Arizona Cardinals in position to wrap up the NFC West with unprecedented ease. Actually, the "ease" part isn't even necessary for me to include with the word "unprecedented." The Arizona Cardinals have never won the NFC West. Their last playoff appearance came in 1998, as a wild card. In fact, that's the only playoff appearance ever for the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals franchise last won a division in a full season in 1975. Coincidentally, that division title came when they resided in St. Louis, now home of the team that thought moving forward with Marc Bulger instead of Warner was a good idea.

For the Cards to not end the division title drought this season, they'd have to blow a four-game lead in only seven games. That won't happen, because Kurt Warner won't let it happen. In the game last night, when his team seemed to want to lose, Warner rose above. If his team begins to falter from here on out, he'll do so again. There's a reason quarterbacks win MVPs more than any other position -- because quarterback is the most important position in any sport. It would be like if the pitcher threw every inning of every game in baseball. The quarterback is what makes teams function. Sure, teams can get by with average-ish signal callers, but more often than not, the best teams have stud quarterbacks. Just picture this: what if Ken Whisenhunt decided to head into the season with Matt Leinart as his starter? Would the Cards have won last night with Leinart at the helm? Would they be 6-3?

We can't know the answer for sure, but the immediate gut feeling you get should illustrate how valuable Warner is. In a season where there aren't many other outstanding candidates, Warner is going to distinguish himself as the only candidate -- especially after he throws all over the Vikings, Seahawks twice, Rams, Eagles, and Patriots.

End the Debate: Kurt Warner is the NFL MVP originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>ken whisenhuntKenWhisenhuntkurt warnerKurtWarnermatt leinartMattLeinartMatt SnyderTue, 11 Nov 2008 14:00:00 EST NFL FanHouse Midseason Midtacular: OMG I Get to Talk About Brett Favre!http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/11/06/nfl-fanhouse-midseason-midtacular-omg-i-get-to-talk-about-brett/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/11/06/nfl-fanhouse-midseason-midtacular-omg-i-get-to-talk-about-brett/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/11/06/nfl-fanhouse-midseason-midtacular-omg-i-get-to-talk-about-brett/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


NFL FanHouse Midseason Midtacular: because handing out awards at the halfway point in the season seemed like the right thing to do.

(Note: the award "OMG I Get to Talk About Brett Favre" was previously known as "Best Old Face in New Place," but Peter King insisted it be renamed in honor of his Excellency.)

Listen, we'd all love to avoid the huge, green, aging, immobile, accident-prone elephant in the room.

It would be better for all of us than making like Tony Kornheiser and IRRELEVANTLY REMINDING EVERYONE ABOUT HIM EVERY FIVE MINUTES DURING A RANDOM MONDAY NIGHT GAME.

But I don't think we can look past Brett Favre when talking about "old faces," especially when those "old faces" also happen to be in "new places" this year.

I mean, we can try, but it would all be a lie.

And the nominees are ...

Chad Pennington, QB, Miami Dolphins
Noodle-arm jokes aside, Pennington's been a steady presence in the Dolphins' huddle, and he's a big reason why they are in the playoff chase. So far, Pennington's hit over two-thirds of his throws and has only four interceptions.

J.T. O'Sullivan, QB, San Francisco 49ers
Just kidding.

Bernard Berrian, WR, Minnesota Vikings
So far, Berrian's done pretty well to justify the big money the Vikings spent on him. He's averaging 20 yards per catch, and he's been the deep threat the Vikings offense so sorely lacked a year ago. And he has better hands than Troy Williamson. Then again, that's like saying that someone is better looking than John Clayton.

Brett Favre, QB, N.Y. Jets
Favre's had his moments of ineffectiveness and has shown he is still capable of that mind-boggling interception every now and then. He's also made some huge plays for the Jets because of his arm and his fearlessness. Even though Pennington is playing well in Miami, there's no question Favre was a serious upgrade at the position for the Jets.

Javon Walker, WR, Oakland Raiders
Sorry. Grabbed the wrong list.

Zach Thomas, LB, Dallas Cowboys
Emphasis on "old", I guess. Thomas has been a nice find for Dallas, leading the team in tackles through nine games and making his presence felt. He's not doing it with his speed or quickness or unbelieveable strength. Instead, Thomas understands the game, rarely makes mistakes, and is a great leader. In other words, he hasn't changed a bit.

How about a winner?

It has to be Favre. That was the biggest move of the NFL off-season, and it was likely the most significant in-preseason trade you will ever see.

He's made a Favrian impact on the Jets, thanks to a big-play style that works both for and against them. Favre has the Jets in position to make the playoffs, and that's after it took him forever to learn the playbook - in part because he spent too much time trying to teach Green Bay's playbook to the Lions.*

(* - allegedly)

NFL FanHouse Midseason Midtacular: OMG I Get to Talk About Brett Favre! originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>MidseasonMidtacularBruce CiskieThu, 06 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST NFL FanHouse Midseason Midtacular: Who Isn't Getting the Respect He Deserves?http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/11/06/nfl-fanhouse-midseason-midtacular-who-isnt-getting-the-respect/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/11/06/nfl-fanhouse-midseason-midtacular-who-isnt-getting-the-respect/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/11/06/nfl-fanhouse-midseason-midtacular-who-isnt-getting-the-respect/#commentsFiled under: ,

NFL FanHouse Midseason Midtacular: because handing out awards at the halfway point in the season seemed like the right thing to do.

You have a group of guys that everyone rants about. Drew Brees, Adrian Peterson, Andre Johnson -- these guys are great and deserve the press they receive. But what about the other guys? The players that are busting their tails for the team and aren't on the top of the Pardon the Interruption roll week in and week out. These guys are underrated, under-appreciated but better than most would expect. Who makes the list? You shall soon see...

Roddy White, WR Atlanta -- Matt Ryan might be having a great season, but a lot can be attributed to White, who has had 112 yards receiving or more in four of his last six games. Starting the season slow, White is now averaging 91.6 yards per game and has become one of the most consistent wide-outs in the league. Too bad most people still would rather have Terrell Owens or Randy Moss.

Owen Daniels, TE Houston -- Yeah, if you didn't know, he's the other option for Matt Schaub in Houston, and he's a damn good substitute for Andre Johnson. Daniels averages 66 yards per game with two touchdowns, catching at least three balls a game this season. If there is a guy you'd want on your team that nobody has heard of, Owens is him. Is it crazy to call him the best tight end in Texas?

Chad Pennington, QB Miami -- He might have a noodle arm but he sure gets a lot of out that piece of pasta. The sixth-ranked quarterback in the NFL has the Dolphins at 4-4, miles ahead of what anyone thought before the season started. While he isn't flashy, he's been solid and has a lot of Jets fans wishing they would have kept him for one more year instead of going to the gun shop for an "upgrade."

Greg Camarillo, WR Miami -- Who has been pulling in all those catches for Pennington? Well, one of the beneficiaries is Camarillo, an undrafted wide receiver out of Stanford. Camarillo had 111 yards last week against the Broncos, which garnished this comment from Denver receiver Brandon Marshall after the game -- "I don't even know the name of that receiver. Don't know it."

The Titans Offensive Line -- Michael Roos, Eugene Amano, Kevin Mawae, Jake Scott and David Stewart. Those names are just as important to the 8-0 Titans as any on the squad, just ask Chris Johnson, Lendale White and Kerry Collins. Think about this for a second -- Collins has been sacked three times this season. San Francisco's quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan has been sacked 32 times this season. I have a feeling that might make a pretty big difference in your record.

But, the winner is....

Kyle Orton, QB Chicago -- The Bears are winning because of their offense. Their offense is run through Orton, and the fourth year quarterback is taking the responsibility like a true veteran. The Bears have scored less than 20 points once this season, yet the 5-3 record and tops in the NFC North is still attributed to Devin Hester and the offense. We have to face the facts -- Orton is a capable quarterback and with the pieces in place, has the ability to make a legitimate run in the NFC.

NFL FanHouse Midseason Midtacular: Who Isn't Getting the Respect He Deserves? originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Andre JohnsonAndreJohnsonBrandon MarshallBrandonMarshallChad PenningtonChadPenningtonDavid StewartDavidStewartDevin HesterDevinHesterEugene AmanoEugeneAmanoGreg CamarilloGregCamarilloJ.T. OSullivanJ.t.OsullivanJake ScottJakeScottKerry CollinsKerryCollinsKevin MawaeKevinMawaeKyle OrtonKyleOrtonMatt RyanMatt SchaubMattRyanMattSchaubMichael RoosMichaelRoosmidseasonmidtacularOwen DanielsOwenDanielsRandy MossRandyMossRoddy WhiteRoddyWhiteTerrell OwensTerrellOwensShane BaconThu, 06 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST NFL Honors Some of Its Biggest Heroes at the 2008 JB Awardshttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/04/05/nfl-honors-some-of-its-biggest-heroes-at-the-2008-jb-awards/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/04/05/nfl-honors-some-of-its-biggest-heroes-at-the-2008-jb-awards/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/04/05/nfl-honors-some-of-its-biggest-heroes-at-the-2008-jb-awards/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


The JB Awards took place last night in Washington, D.C. as part of the NFL Players Gala which recognizes the NFL athletes who do the most in terms of community service. CBS' James Brown, host of "The NFL Today," led the ceremony along with former Steelers coach Bill Cowher. The festivities benefited the Special Olympics D.C. and many of the players honored even spent the day playing with some local kids at Catholic University.

One member of each team was nominated to be honored and from those players nominated, James Brown personally selected twelve to win a JB Award. In addition to those twelve players, four other athletes were given specific honors.

The biggest name being honored was Dan Marino, former Miami Dolphins star QB and 2005 inductee into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Marino received the JB Award for Lifetime Achievement for his dedication to fight against autism.

While Marino was honored for a lifetime achievement award, one of the game's brightest young stars on the rise received a JB Award for Emerging Leadership. Read on to hear my tale of how Purple Jesus almost broke my hand.%Gallery-19875%
Adrian "Purple Jesus" Peterson

Being an award gala honoring the game's most generous athletes, it's safe to say every player who stepped into the media room was classy and well spoken. But the most memorable guy was Minnesota's rookie sensation Adrian Peterson.

Purple Jesus was the first athlete to enter the media room while many of the reporters were still shuffling in. Now, I do spend quite a bit of time in front of a computer working on my typing skills, so my hands may not exactly be NFL tough. But I'm being completely honest in saying that when Adrian Peterson shook my hand, I was worried for a few seconds that a bone or two may have been broken. Without a doubt, the strongest handshake I think I will ever encounter.

Peterson was extremely affable and even agreed to let me snap a photo of his impressive bling seen above. Unfortunately, my camera is not used to taking pictures of that many diamonds at once.

With the event being in D.C., one of the common questions asked to the players was what their thoughts on politics were and if they supported a particular candidate. One reporter tried to pin Adrian into selecting a candidate, but the Vikings star said that he respects all of their leadership qualities and hopes he can have similar characteristics on the football field. A.D.'s elusive moves aren't limited to just the football field.

After the political types got their questions out of the way, I focused in on something much more important: his nickname. I asked him how he felt about the nickname "Purple Jesus" and he seemed kind of mixed on the moniker. He was both flattered in its obviously complimentary nature and taken aback at its reference to a higher power. "I'm a Christian but if they want to call me that, I'll let them do it." Fair enough.

I was impressed with Adrian Peterson and think he will be a great face of the NFL for years to come.

Dan Marino, Star of Ace Ventura

My favorite interview of the night was Dan Marino, who when asked whether he'd ever consider running for office, didn't hesitate a second and quickly said, "No." Marino did point out he was more than happy to have been recently named to a task force on Autism Spectrum Disorders by the governor of Florida.

Marino was at his most entertaining when asked about his experience in the movie Ace Ventura: Pet Detective. Marino joked Ace Venture was "the best work of my life" and that he made Jim Carey a star. "Before that nobody even knew he was. Not even a thank you, a bottle of wine, nothing from Jim Carey."

While a guy like Warrick Dunn surprised me with his lack of size, Marino impressed me with how big he actually is. Marino is the kind of guy who commands a room with his presence. He's quite soft spoken, and at time even hard to hear, but he speaks with authority and humor. It's no surprise he was one of the game's best leaders on the field.

James Thrash On the NFL Brotherhood

Former Philadelphia Eagle and current Washington Redskin James Thrash made me feel bad for ever calling him a bum on the football field. From the morning workout with the Special Olympic kids to the media session, James Thrash was about as friendly and talkative a guy you could ask for.

Thrash said that the reason these awards mean so much to him is because you are being recognized by your teammates. He stressed the fact that during the season, you spend more time with your fellow players and coaches than your own families. So when people you spend so much time with recognize your good efforts, it means a lot.

When asked about some of the current drama surrounding players like Matt Leinert or Chris Henry, Thrash put much of the onus on their elder teammates. Thrash says when he was young and green, there were guys like Darrell Green who took him under his wing and showed him how to act and how to shape yourself into a good person.

The Friday night activities in D.C. were an opportunity to recognize some of the great efforts put forth by many of the NFL players. While I'm sure they were honored to be recognized, I'd bet they got more out of their Friday morning spent with the Special Olympics Athletes.%Gallery-19856%

NFL Honors Some of Its Biggest Heroes at the 2008 JB Awards originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sat, 05 Apr 2008 15:28:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Ace VenturaAceVenturaadrian petersonAdrianPetersondan marinoDanMarinojames thrashJamesThrashwarrick dunnWarrickDunnEnrico CampitelliSat, 05 Apr 2008 15:28:00 EST NFL Players Team Up With Special Olympianshttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/04/05/nfl-players-team-up-with-special-olympics-dc/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/04/05/nfl-players-team-up-with-special-olympics-dc/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/04/05/nfl-players-team-up-with-special-olympics-dc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Many of the league's most respected players were in Washington, DC, on Friday to be honored at the 2008 NFL Players Gala featuring the JB Awards. Hosted by CBS' James Brown and former Steelers head coach turned CBS analyst Bill Cowher, the event is an annual awards presentation benefiting Special Olympics District of Columbia.

A group of the players being honored at the evening's award show spent the morning at Catholic University playing football with 75 or so local Special Olympic Athletes. Players involved on Friday morning included Marques Douglas, Chris Draft, Warrick Dunn, Braylon Edwards, Israel Idonije, Kassim Osgood, Mack Strong, James Thrash and Brian Waters.

With guys like Chris Henry and Matt Leinert in the news for questionable decisions lately, I think it's important to recognize many of the league's good people. DC was lucky enough to be full of them on Friday.%Gallery-19856%I spent a few hours watching the football-style games the NFL guys played with the Special Olympic athletes and there was one thing that was blatantly clear throughout the day. From the kids to the volunteers to the NFL players, every single person in the gym was having an absolute blast. I can't recall the last time I've seen so many smiles in one place.

James Thrash, a player known on the field for his punt return skills, seemed to be having more fun than anyone all day long. When I asked him what it was like for him to spend the day with the kids, Thrash was glowing. "When you see the fun these kids are having, you can't help but smile."

It really is true. The smiles in the gym were contagious.

Another athlete having a blast was Cleveland Browns star receiver Braylon Edwards. Thrash and Edwards were teamed up in a drill that led the children through an obstacle course and once completed they had the chance to make a pass to Braylon. The kids put Edwards' impressive hands to the test but he didn't disappoint. After each catch, he danced as if he'd just caught a TD in the Super Bowl.

Two other players of note at the event were Chris Draft of the Rams (first photo above) and Warrick Dunn of the Bucs. Draft was having so much fun running around with the kids he looked as if he had just run a marathon. NFL players must sweat more than the average person.

Warrick Dunn played the role of quarterback in a hand off drill. While many of the NFL players were giants, Dunn looked like one of the kids. I was amazed that a man of his size can thrive and actually be incredibly effective in the NFL.

I had the chance to ask Warrick how he felt about returning to the Tampa Bay Bucs after years in Atlanta. Dunn, quite soft spoken said he believes it will be a "good situation" for him in Tampa.

It was an inspiring day watching some of the NFL's brightest stars get a chance to make the days of a gym full of kids who likely don't get this kind of opportunity every day.

As mentioned earlier, the fun and games at Catholic University was part of the NFL Players Awards that took place later in the evening. Read more on that with photos of Dan Marino, Adrian Peterson, and many others here.%Gallery-19875%

NFL Players Team Up With Special Olympians originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sat, 05 Apr 2008 12:02:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>bill cowherBillCowherbraylon edwardsBraylonEdwardsBrianWatersChris DraftChrisDraftisraelidonijejames brownJamesBrownjamesthrashKassimOsgoodmackstrongwarrickdunnEnrico CampitelliSat, 05 Apr 2008 12:02:00 EST Jason Taylor Wins Walter Payton Man of Yearhttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/02/03/jason-taylor-wins-walter-payton-man-of-year/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/02/03/jason-taylor-wins-walter-payton-man-of-year/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/02/03/jason-taylor-wins-walter-payton-man-of-year/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Miami Dolphins defensive end Jason Taylor has been named the NFL's Walter Payton Man of the Year.

For the first time, the National Football League has announced the Man of the Year award on the field of the Super Bowl, just moments before the game. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said the league made the decision to make a higher-profile announcement to bring more positive attention toward players who do the right things off the field, after a year in which much attention was paid to players who did the wrong things.

Taylor had this to say about players like himself who are doing the right things:
"I don't think it gets the vigor as a fellow making a mistake and getting a D.U.I. or whatever, making a mistake in the community and getting arrested. Obviously, that gets covered with a lot more passion and vigor, and that's unfair. There are a lot of guys in the league doing great things."
Congratulations to Taylor, a class act all the way.

Jason Taylor Wins Walter Payton Man of Year originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Sun, 03 Feb 2008 18:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Michael David SmithSun, 03 Feb 2008 18:25:00 EST Colts' Bob Sanders Top Defensive Player; Patrick Kerney, Albert Haynesworth Secondhttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/01/07/colts-bob-sanders-top-defensive-player-patrick-kerney-albert/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/01/07/colts-bob-sanders-top-defensive-player-patrick-kerney-albert/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/01/07/colts-bob-sanders-top-defensive-player-patrick-kerney-albert/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Colts safety Bob Sanders has been named the Associated Press NFL Defensive Player of the Year, which is no surprise.

But what is surprising is that there wasn't even a close second. Of the 50 media voters, 31 chose Sanders, whose return from an injury that cost him most of the 2006 season dramatically turned around the Colts' defense. Two defensive linemen, Seattle's Patrick Kerney and Tennessee's Albert Haynesworth, tied for second, but they got just four votes apiece.

The other players who received votes were: defensive back Antonio Cromartie of San Diego with three; linebackers Mike Vrabel of New England and DeMarcus Ware of Dallas, each with two; and cornerback Ronde Barber of Tampa Bay, linebacker James Harrison of Pittsburgh, rookie linebacker Patrick Willis of San Francisco, and end Mario Williams of Houston, each with one vote.

Colts' Bob Sanders Top Defensive Player; Patrick Kerney, Albert Haynesworth Second originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Mon, 07 Jan 2008 15:36:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Albert HaynesworthAlbertHaynesworthBob SandersBobSandersPatrick KerneyPatrickKerneyMichael David SmithMon, 07 Jan 2008 15:36:00 EST Matt Moore Wins Rookie Honors in Decemberhttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/01/03/matt-moore-wins-rookie-honors-in-december/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/01/03/matt-moore-wins-rookie-honors-in-december/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/01/03/matt-moore-wins-rookie-honors-in-december/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Carolina Panthers quarterback Matt Moore was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month for December. The last quarterback to be named offensive rookie of the month? Ben Roethlisberger. And the Steelers actually drafted him. Just sayin'.

Moore definitely deserved the award after going 2-1 as a starter against three playoff teams to close the season, completing 62% of his passes in those games and throwing three touchdowns to two interceptions. Perhaps the only reason Moore wasn't in there sooner was because the fans were calling for him. Some Panthers fans called for Chris Weinke in 2006, though perhaps not as vocally. It's hard to blame John Fox for tuning them out -- even if the fans were right this time.

The real question, though, is whether fans will ask for Moore again in 2008, when Jake Delhomme will presumably be healthy again. Despite playing only 10 1/2 quarters of football, Jake actually finished the season as the team leader in touchdown passes with 8. He was playing well enough in Jeff Davidson's offense to leave us all wondering what might have been. Maybe next year, fans won't be so quick to call for Jake to sit down.

Then again, Jake's never actually had a good backup behind him, has he?

Matt Moore Wins Rookie Honors in December originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Thu, 03 Jan 2008 23:45:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>MattMooreDavid J. WarnerThu, 03 Jan 2008 23:45:00 EST Bears' Devin Hester Earns Seventh NFC Special Teams Player of the Week Awardhttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/01/03/bears-devin-hester-earns-seventh-nfc-special-teams-player-of-th/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/01/03/bears-devin-hester-earns-seventh-nfc-special-teams-player-of-th/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2008/01/03/bears-devin-hester-earns-seventh-nfc-special-teams-player-of-th/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chicago Bears return man Devin Hester has played 32 weeks in the NFL. Seven of those weeks, he's won the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week award.

The seventh was announced Wednesday, honoring Hester for his 64-yard punt return touchdown on Sunday against the Saints. That gave Hester the NFL record for combined kick return touchdowns in a season, with six. The old record was five, set by Hester last year. No one else has ever had more than four kick return touchdowns in a season.

And no one else has ever had more than seven Special Teams Player of the Week awards. Dante Hall also has had seven in his career, and the two of them are tied for the most ever. It really is amazing how Hester, in just two NFL seasons, is doing things that no other return man has ever done. If the 25-year-old Hester plays at even close to this level until he's 30, he'll completely re-write the kick return section of the NFL record book.

But Hester knows he doesn't deserve all the credit:

"It's a big thing whenever you get a guy to go out and put 10 or 11 returns in in two years; that's a great accomplishment," Hester acknowledged. "But like I always say, I give all my credit to my teammates. Those are the guys who lay it on the line and do all the dirty work. And at the end of the day it seems like I get all the glory for it.' ...

"For guys who go out and put it down on special teams ... (Brendon) Ayanbadejo, Adrian Peterson, Rod Wilson, Jamar Williams, you can all the way down the line, those guys are key on our special teams.

"Hopefully, we get that special-teams group back and look forward to next season."


The Bears have the best special teams in the NFL by a large margin, and although special teams success often doesn't stay consistent from year to year, as long as Hester is on the team, the Bears are in awfully good shape in the kicking game.

Bears' Devin Hester Earns Seventh NFC Special Teams Player of the Week Award originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Thu, 03 Jan 2008 13:36:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Dante HallDanteHallDevin HesterDevinHesterMichael David SmithThu, 03 Jan 2008 13:36:00 EST Randy Moss for MVP Debatehttp://nfl.fanhouse.com/2007/11/23/randy-moss-for-mvp-debate/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2007/11/23/randy-moss-for-mvp-debate/http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2007/11/23/randy-moss-for-mvp-debate/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Who's the NFL MVP this year? There's no doubt in my mind that if he stays healthy, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady will win. But there's an interesting little debate brewing about whether Brady's teammate, wide receiver Randy Moss, might actually be more deserving.

Representing the pro side, Jason Whitlock:

Seriously, denying Randy Moss this year's Associated Press MVP award would be borderline criminal....

Moss should not and cannot be denied this season. His impact on the football field is so obvious and so overwhelming that even Joe Buck should cast an MVP vote for Mr. Moss.

Representing the con side, Jim Trotter:

In a word: No.

In two words: Hell no. ...

I can't get out of my head how he basically quit on his previous two teams and said on multiple occasions he only plays hard when he feels like it. ...
Ignoring Moss' destructive behavior -- which took place as recently as last season in Oakland, mind you -- would send the message that it's OK to quit on your teammates, cheat your employer and put yourself above your team and the game, simply because you are a gifted athlete.
I think Trotter is right for the wrong reason. Moss doesn't deserve the MVP, but his past bad actions aren't the reason. The reason is that Brady is more valuable to the Patriots than Moss is. And if Moss isn't the most valuable player on his team, he's not the most valuable player in the league.

Randy Moss for MVP Debate originally appeared on NFL FanHouse on Fri, 23 Nov 2007 18:50:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

 

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]]>Randy MossRandyMossTom BradyTomBradyMichael David SmithFri, 23 Nov 2007 18:50:00 EST