Category: NFL

Giants Waste Little Time Finding Next General Manager

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

Dave Gettleman

The end is near.

The end of a disastrous season can’t come fast enough for the New York Giants. With just 1 more loss in the way this Sunday, the Giants will soon have time to exhale and think about the future of their franchise. Giants owners, John Mara and Steve Tisch, will be able to discuss the direction they’d like to go with a new head coach and general manag….

Wait, they already hired their next general manager?!?! Yup. Just 24 days after parting ways with Jerry Reese and Ben McAdoo, Mara and Tisch didn’t spend much time as eligible bachelors. I guess Elvis Presley’s “Fools Rush In” doesn’t only apply to love. So, who is this mystery man?? He would be, Dave Gettleman. Gettleman isn’t actually a mystery. He worked as the director of pro personnel for the Giants for 15 years before being named general manager of the Carolina Panthers. At 66, Gettleman will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience back to the Giants. Clearly, Mara and Tisch are impressed with Gettleman’s resume:

“Dave’s experience is unparalleled. He did an outstanding job as general manager in Carolina, and he was vital to our success during his tenure here. Given where we are as a team, we thought it was important to bring in someone with experience as a general manager and a proven track record.”

I don’t dislike this hire. I just figured the Giants would take a little longer to hand pick the person who needs to put out this dumpster fire. At the very least, I thought they’d wait until the season ended. I guess not….

After interviewing just 4 candidates, Mara and Tisch were convinced Gettleman was the man for the job. The other candidates were interim general manager Kevin Abrams, vice president of player evaluation Marc Ross, and ESPN’s Louis Riddick. The Giants went chalk here. That is the Giants way. They’re creatures of habit. They don’t like trying new things. That’s probably why Gettleman will be just their 4th general manager since 1979.

Gettleman will have little time to waste, as he has multiple crucial decisions to make:

1.) A New Head Coach

2.) Eli Manning’s Future

3.) Odell Beckham Jr.’s Contract Extension

4.) 2018 Free Agency

5.) 2018 NFL Draft  

Good luck!!

 

What do you think of this hire?? Like it, Love it, or Hate it?? Tell me in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports .

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

Remember When The NFL Revolved Around Running Backs??

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

todd gurley

What does it mean to be valuable??

I’m valuable to my family, my friends, and the company I work for. And I’m sure you’re valuable to somebody, or something, somewhere….

But what does it take to be the most valuable player in the NFL?? Stellar transition I know. Let’s answer that question with a question. What would your team be without you??

The book is about to close on another NFL season. As teams make their final push for the playoffs, individual players continue to earn next year’s contracts. A select few, however, look to hoist the NFL’s MVP Trophy. In my estimation, it’s a 3-man race:

1.) Tom Brady (who else?)

2.) Russell Wilson

3.) Todd Gurley

Tom Brady

Everyone knows Tom Brady is really good at football. He’s the best quarterback of all-time, and it’s not even that close. And that’s his problem. The NFL, and every sport, refuses to give the MVP Award to the same player every year. Michael Jordan, could have, and should have, won the MVP Award every year. Same with Lebron James. Brady, at 40, is playing some of the best football of his career. His 67.5 completion percentage is the highest of his career, and he’s set to top 4,500 yards passing for the 5th time in his career. Oh yeah, and his New England Patriots are 12-3, just 1 win away from clinching home field throughout the playoffs. With alllllll that said, Tom Brady is not this season’s MVP.

Tom Brady’s Stats: 4,387 yards, 30 TDs, 8 INTs, 67.5 Completion %

Russell Wilson

Is there anyone doing more with less this season?! The Seattle Seahawks, at 9-6, are in contention for the playoffs. Despite having the worst offensive line known to man, no running game to speak of, and a defense living in the infirmary, the Seahawks are still breathing. All thanks to Russell Wilson. Wilson has an incredible ability to extend plays with his legs, neutralizing an opposing team’s pass rush. This also gives his wide receivers time to find holes in opposing secondary’s. Wilson has figured out how to make Paul Richardson look like a real receiver….

Oh yeah, Wilson is also the team’s leading rusher — by a lot. He’s still not this season’s MVP.

Russell Wilson’s Stats: 3,762 passing yards, 32 TDs, 11 INTs, 61.3 Completion % (550 Rushing Yards)

Todd Gurley

And then, there’s the running back. The NFL’s leader in rushing yards and touchdowns, Todd Gurley. From breakout rookie season, to sophomore slump-and-a-half, to MVP candidate. Put Gurley’s ridiculous rushing statistics to the side for a moment. Let’s look at Todd Gurley, the complete player. If Gurley was solely compared to wide receivers, he’d still be having a solid season. Here’s where he stacks up against the rest of the league through the air:

Receptions: 64 (T-26)

Receiving Yards: 788 (T-28)

Receiving TDs: 6 (T-21)

Yeah, I was impressed too. The NFC West Champion Los Angeles Rams (11-4) have a lot to be thankful for this year. For without Gurley, who knows where they’d be. Todd Gurley is this season’s MVP.

Todd Gurley’s Stats: 1,305 Rushing Yards, 13 TDs/64 Receptions, 788 Receiving Yards, 6 TDs

Stop looking at me like I’m crazy. I know this is a passing league. I know the running back position isn’t the most important on the field. However, running backs winning the MVP Award is not unprecedented. Adrian Peterson won it just 5 years ago. And 3 have won it in the past 12 seasons. And this year, there’s value in the running back position around the league. Look at Ezekiel Elliot and the Dallas Cowboys. The second Elliot served his 6-game suspension, the Cowboys lost 3 games in a row. Sorry Russell. Sorry Tommy Boy.

Todd Gurley is the NFL MVP.

 

Who is this season’s NFL MVP?? Post your prediction in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports .

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

If Only The NFL Knew What A Catch Was….

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

Jesse-James-TD

Good morning sports fans, and welcome to another episode of What’s A Catch?! In this controversial episode, the NFL has its fingerprints all over the outcome of Week 15’s ‘Game of the Week’. The New England Patriots took their talents to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers. A game with major playoff implications in the AFC could only be called by the one, the only (broadcaster who doesn’t know how to shut up), Tony Romo!!

Through the cold and rain, the 1st quarter remained even. After Rex Burkhead dove in for a 1-yard touchdown, the Steelers marched down the field, tying the game at 7 on an Eli Rogers touchdown. The energy at Heinz Field was intense, as this game lived up to the hype.

Despite carrying a 17-10 lead into halftime, the 2nd quarter was a living nightmare for the Steelers. With just over 13 minutes left in the 2nd quarter, Ben Roethlisberger attempted to hit his favorite target, Antonio Brown, in the end zone. Brown was unable to hang on to the 25-yard touchdown pass, as his leg was slammed between 2 Patriots’ defenders. Brown fell to the ground clutching his left calf. Early reports indicate Brown has a partially torn left calf muscle. To see the play, click here.

Without Brown, the other B stepped up; Le’Veon Bell. Bell had 165 scrimmage yards and a touchdown. He walked into the end zone from 3 yards out with 1:33 left in the 3rd quarter, giving the Steelers a 24-16 lead. That would be the last time the Steelers would score. Football fans over the past 15 years know that’s not a recipe for success against Tom Brady. 1 Patriots’ field goal and a Steelers’ 3-and-out later, Tom Brady had the ball, down 5, with 2:06 remaining.

Sounds familiar doesn’t it??

Brady targeted Rob Gronkowski 4 times during this 2-minute drill. Gronk would haul in 3 of those targets for 69 yards. It was like there was no one else on the field, and Brady and Gronk were playing catch in the backyard. In UnBradyLike fashion, the Patriots scored with too much time left on the clock (56 seconds). 1 play later, Big Ben and the Steelers were on the Patriots 10-yard line. Here’s where it gets interesting….

After the Steelers burned their final timeout, Big Ben connected with tight end, Jesse James, for a 10-yard touchdown. Heinz Field erupted. Jesse James and company celebrated. And Jim Nantz and Tony Romo saw nothing to suggest the play was in question. And then the review (every scoring play is reviewed) started to take a minute. 2 minutes. 3 minutes. A line from Cinderella Man instantly popped into my head:

“I’ll tell you this much, when they take this long to make a decision, they’re gonna decide to screw somebody.”   

Obviously, the touchdown was overturned. Watch the play, then we’ll talk….

I don’t care that the NFL says a player must maintain possession of the ball through the entire motion of a catch (including contact with the ground). That silly rule doesn’t apply here. Jesse James scored a touchdown yesterday. He caught the ball while hitting the ground, THEN turned up field and reached for the end zone. After crossing the plane, and theoretically already scoring a touchdown, the ball jars loose from his Kung-Fu Grip, barely touching the ground.

Sooooo, the Steelers dusted themselves off, and took 2 more shots at the end zone. After a completion to the 7-yard line, the Steelers hurried back to the line. Big Ben faked a spike (that faked out 2 of his own receivers), and threw into traffic. A Patriots’ defender batted the ball up in the air, and it was intercepted. No touchdown. No field goal. No overtime. The Patriots stole another one against the Steelers, 27-24.

Home field, in the AFC, goes through Foxborough — for now.

 

Was it a catch???? Tell me in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports .

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

Pull Up A Chair — An Epic NFL Weekend Is Upon Us!!

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

Pittsburgh Steelers v New England Patriots

Take the night off.

Since the NFL decided to put the worst football game in the history of football games on Thursday night, take the night off. Go finish your Christmas shopping. Go cook a nice meal. Go to bed early. And gear up for a FANTASTIC weekend of football.

Week 15 is poised to be historic. The amount of games with major playoff implications is staggering. Don’t forget, Saturday football starts this week as well. Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Yes, the NFL is taking over the calendar.

Here are the top 4 games of Week 15:

4.) Los Angeles Chargers (7-6) @ Kansas City Chiefs (7-6), Saturday @ 8:25 P.M.

Can I get some Saturday Night Football here?? Not only can you stay home and watch football on Saturday night, but you’ll be blessed with an AFC West showdown. That’s 1 part serious, 1 part sarcasm. Bad or not, this game may determine the winner of the AFC West. Philip Rivers is playing some of the best football of his career. Melvin Gordon is on his way to the 1st 1,000 yard season of his career. And the Chargers pass rush is as good as it gets. I don’t care that the Chiefs finally won a game, I’ll stick with the team playing as well as anyone in the league; the Chargers.

Prediction: Chargers 27, Chiefs 24

3.) Green Bay Packers (7-6) @ Carolina Panthers (9-4), Sunday @ 1:00 P.M.

It’s the moment you’ve all been waiting for. The Baaaaad Man is back!! Aaron Rodgers has been medically cleared to play, and will be under center this coming Sunday. Rodgers hasn’t played football since he broke his collarbone against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 6. Let’s give Brett Hundley credit for the job he did over the past 8 games. He led the Packers to a 3-5 record. It’s not easy to fill Aaron Rodgers shoes, but Hundley kept the Packers afloat. Now, Rodgers must do the improbable — run the table. I think we’ll see some rust from Rodgers, but ultimately he’ll be the best player on the field.

Prediction: Packers 24, Panthers 18

2.) Los Angeles Rams (9-4) @ Seattle Seahawks (8-5), Sunday @ 4:05 P.M.

Talk about an important game. A potential playoff berth, and the lead in the NFC West hangs in the balance. Despite the level Russell Wilson is playing, football is not a 1-man sport. The Rams are a more complete team. One of Jared Goff’s favorite weapons, Robert Woods, will return to the field this week after missing 3 straight games with a shoulder injury. This will be a close, hard fought game. But Jared Goff, Todd Gurley III, Sammy Watkins, Robert Woods, and Cooper Kupp will prove too much for this stripped down, Seahawks’ defense.

Prediction: Rams 28, Seahawks 24

1.) New England Patriots (10-3) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (11-2), Sunday @ 4:25 P.M.

You wanted the game of the week. You got the game of the week. Sunday afternoon, the class of the AFC, will throw down at Heinz Field. The Patriots and Steelers are the only 2 teams in the AFC with double-digit wins. The Steelers offense is firing on all cylinders. Big Ben has turned back the clock, and Leveon Bell and Antonio Brown are the best, at their respective position, in the league. But the Patriots play well everywhere. Duh! It’s noteworthy when you handle the 2nd best team in the AFC (for the past 15 years), year in and year out. The Patriots are 5-2, including playoffs, at Heinz Field since 2002.  Plus, since the start of the 2003 season, the Patriots are 40-5 following a loss. THAT’S INSANE!! That means they’ve only lost consecutive games 5 times in nearly 15 seasons.

Prediction: Patriots 27, Steelers 20

 

What is the most exciting game of Week 15?? Post your predictions in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports .

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

Week 14 Had It All

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

bills-colts-600

That throw.

How many can make that throw?? Click here to see the spectacular precision only a handful of men on the planet possess (it happens at the 2:00 mark of the video). That’s “Big Ben” doing what “Big Ben” does.

Instant Classic

Ben Roethlisberger has been a really good quarterback for a really long time. His performance on Sunday Night Football is a microcosm of his career. With 6:44 left to play, the Pittsburgh Steelers trailed their division rival, Baltimore Ravens, by 9 points. Roethlisberger, poised as ever, drove his team 68-yards for a touchdown in just 3 minutes and 15 seconds. After a 3 and out that lasted just 1 minute and 4 seconds, Roethlisberger went back to work.

See, it’s not just the throw. It’s the moment. When the moment calls for a perfect, 34-yard pass that looks like it was gently placed into the hands of Antonio Brown, Roethlisberger produces that throw. On that play, Roethlisberger not only clinched the game, but became the only quarterback in NFL history with 3 career 500-yard passing games. 39-38 Steelers. If you didn’t catch this one live, go find a replay. It’ll be worth it.

Do You Want To Build A Snowman??

Football in a blizzard is awesome!! It’s unique. It’s different. It draws eyes to the TV. Eyes that would otherwise be glued to an iPhone, iPad, or videogame. It also gave us a wildly entertaining football game. The Indianapolis Colts struggled in the elements in Buffalo, scoring their 1st points with just 1:16 left in the game. With 40-mph wind gusts staring Adam Vinatieri in the face, the Colts opted to go for 2. It worked!! The Colts went up 8-7 in the most improbable of comebacks….until they didn’t. In came a flag, 45 seconds after the play, nullifying the conversion. Vinatieri would be forced to attempt a 43-yard extra point. He nailed it!! To overtime we’d go. As the 1st tie of the NFL season was staring each team in the face, the Buffalo Bills did the impossible. 3rd string quarterback, Joe Webb, hit Deonte Thompson for a 34-yard bomb. This would set up a Lesean McCoy scamper from 21-yards out for the 13-7 overtime victory!!

What A Weird Season

The New York Jets beat the Jacksonville Jaguars 23-20 in Week 4. The New York Jets lost to the Denever Broncos 23-0 in Week 14. Make sense of that….

Overshadowed By Injury

The Philadelphia Eagles vs. the Los Angeles Rams was supposed to be the game of the week. The battle for NFC supremacy. Carson Wentz vs. Jared Goff. What could be more exciting??

While it was an entertaining game, it was marred by Carson Wentz’, season ending torn ACL. Wentz was sandwiched between 2 Rams as he dove into the endzone in the 3rd quarter. Check out the play here. Down 28-24, he hobbled back to the huddle after the touchdown was called back on a holding penalty. Wentz, left immobilized, stayed in the game long enough to throw a 1-legged touchdown!! The Eagles would hold on for a 43-35 victory, clinching the NFC East Division Title. However, Wentz’ MVP hopes circled the drain hand-in-hand with the Eagles’ Super Bowl dreams….

Last Time I Checked, You Can’t Do That

Reminiscent of the “Malice at the Palace”, a Seattle Seahawks’ player tried to fight a fan.

Let me repeat that: A SEATTLE SEAHAWKS PLAYER TRIED TO FIGHT A FAN!!

Watch Einstein here.

Quinton Jefferson, unhappy that some of his teammates are dirty players, and that his team lost, decided it would be a good idea to try to climb into the stands and fight a fan. Yes, of course fans should NEVER throw objects on the field. But, a player, no matter the circumstance, should NEVER EVER try to climb into the stands to assault a fan.

I thought that was understood….

 

What was the most exciting part of Week 14?? Tell me in the comment section below. 

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports .

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

Thursday Helped Me Procrastinate

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

jeter trades dee gordon

I haven’t started my Christmas shopping yet. Hell, I haven’t even thought about starting my Christmas shopping — until now. What you call procrastination, I call waiting for the right moment. Can I blame Thursday?? I’m going to blame Thursday.

Trade #1

The first of 2 major trades came from NBA land. Jhalil Okafor, the #3 pick in the 2015 NBA Draft (Duke), has had a rocky start to his professional career. Prior to being shipped out of Philadelphia on Thursday, Okafor had played just 25 total minutes this season. The 76ers are giving him a fresh start, as his new zip code will be 11218….

Brooklyn Nets Receive:

Jhalil Okafor, Nik Stauskas, and a 2019 2nd-round pick

Philadelphia 76ers Receive:  

Trevor Booker

While I like Trevor Booker, this trade is a win for the Brooklyn Nets. Nets general manger, Sean Marks, continues to prove he knows what he’s doing. Most Gregg Popovich disciples do. This season alone, Marks has acquired the #2 and #3 picks from the solid 2015 NBA draft. I guess he was listening when Coach Popovich was talking.

Trade #2

Let the salary dump begin!! The Miami Marlins, are in the midst of a complete tear down. EVERYTHING MUST GO!! Marlins fans have seen this movie before. The only difference is, Derek Jeter has his finger on the button this time around. Jeter became Marlins’ CEO when he and his group purchased the team back in August. And he made his first major move yesterday.

Seattle Mariners Receive:

Dee Gordon

Miami Marlins Receive:

3 Minor League Players (Robert Dugger, Nick Neidert and Christopher Torres)

With a log jam in the middle infield, the Mariners plan to play Gordon in center field. This is a very solid trade for the Mariners, as they also receive $1 million in International money. This makes them leaders in the clubhouse in the Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes.

Thursday Night Football

Thursday night provided an entertaining football game, however, the moral of the story is simple; you HAVE to score more than 17 points when the opposing quarterback throws 3 interceptions. Yes, Matt Ryan threw 3 interceptions last night. No, the Saints did not capitalize on those opportunities. Being held to a season-low 50 rushing yards probably didn’t help matters.

And I don’t care that they got it. Going for it, on 4th and 1, on Atlanta’s 24-yard line, trailing 20-17, on the road, with under 2 minutes left, was STUPID!!

A decision and the result are 2 separate entities.

Drew Brees iced the game, as he threw an interception in the end zone with 1 minute and 25 seconds left. Brees’ interception was just his 2nd since October 22nd!! Brees and company will look to bounce back when they host the New York Jets next week. And they won’t have to wait long for a shot at redemption. The Falcons come to town on Christmas Eve. You won’t want to miss that rematch, as it could determine the NFC South champion.

 

What was the biggest story from Thursday?? Tell me all about it in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports .

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

Giants Pull The Plug On Season….A Month After It Died

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 2 Comments

reese and mcadoo

It’s about time!!

The New York Giants finally came to their senses, albeit a month late, parting ways with their general manager and head coach. As of Monday, Jerry Reese and Ben McAdoo’s services are no longer needed at MetLife Stadium. Giants’ owners, John Mara and Steve Tisch, confirmed the firings in a news conference Monday afternoon. Defensive coordinator, Steve Spagnuolo, will be named interim head coach, and assistant general manager, Kevin Abrams, will be named interim general manager. While I would have fired Reese and McAdoo 5 weeks ago, the blame for this season’s dumpster fire shouldn’t be placed on their shoulders. The buck stops with the owners.

The Giants organization deserves an Oscar. They’ve fooled everyone for a long time. It’s actually impressive. See, everyone places the Giants organization on this imaginary golden pedestal, and adds the prefix ‘classy’ to their name. Yeah, not so much. You don’t have to dig that deep to see past that pretty little façade. John Mara’s grandfather, Tim Mara, purchased the Giants for $500 in 1925, making it the most sound investment in the history of the world.

However, does anyone know how Tim Mara made a living in 1925??

He was a bookie!! If you think the gambling epidemic and mob ties to the NFL in the 1920’s weren’t intertwined with Mara and the Giants, you were born yesterday.

The Giants also enabled Lawrence Taylor’s behavior for over a decade. Taylor, one of the best players in NFL history, was constantly in trouble off the field. But, as long as he produced on the field, the Giants tolerated his drug abuse and other problems.

And let’s not forget the “mis”handling of the Josh Brown domestic violence issue. The Giants knew exactly what their kicker did (in abusing his wife), but decided to sweep it under the rug to avoid negative publicity. It wasn’t until the truth leaked to the public that the Giants suspended Brown indefinitely.

That pedestal is starting to look rusty….

And then, there’s their present day folly. Because nothing says classy like dragging the face of your franchise through the mud. Then backing up and driving over him. Then putting the car in drive and running him over again.

What John Mara allowed Jerry Reese and Ben McAdoo to do to Eli Manning was practically criminal. To rip Eli’s consecutive games played streak (210 games) from his hands, for just 1 game, was painful to watch (even for a non-Giants fan). Especially for Geno Smith. And now, the Giants, at 2-10, will hand the reigns back to Eli Manning. WOW!! Just — WOW!!

Here’s John Mara’s sorry attempt at pointing the finger at himself:

“You ought to stop blaming Ben and Jerry on that. If you want to blame anyone on that, blame me. I certainly had the power to overrule it if I wanted to. I chose not to do it.”

I already blamed you John!! But thanks for giving me permission….

 

What do you think of the New York Giants?? Are they a classy organization?? Or just another group of money hungry, selfish, billionaires??

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports .

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

Giants Reach An All-Time Low — Drag An All-Time Great Through The Mud

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

Eli Mannin

Eli Manning is being benched for the 1st time in his career….

 

 

for Geno Smith?!

*No need to adjust your TV set (or eyeballs). This is a real story.

Eli Manning has started every game in his career for the New York Giants. His consecutive games started streak, that currently stands at 210 (2nd longest in NFL history), will come to an end this coming Sunday. Allow me to remove any fluff other media outlets are adding to this story:

THIS IS STUPID!!

Anyone who knows me, knows I’m not Eli Manning’s #1 fan. In fact, I think he’ll rank as the 2nd worst quarterback in the Hall of Fame when it’s all said and done. Joe Namath will forever hold that wonderful distinction. But that’s no reason to treat a consummate professional this way.

Eli Manning has been a good soldier. He’s done everything the Giants’ organization has asked of him. He’s started every game of his 13-year career. And he’s won 2 Super Bowls.

He’s dodged fake allegations of autograph fraud. He’s taken head coach, Ben McAdoo’s unjust, public criticism on the chin. And he’s won 2 Super Bowls.

He stands as the Giants’ best quarterback in franchise history. He ranks 7th all-time in passing yards. And he’s won 2 Super Bowls.

Check out Eli Manning’s career stats here.

Generally, when a team is 2-9, they aren’t faced with the dilemma of benching an all-time great quarterback. However, this Giants team is taking unprecedented to a whole new level. Enter Geno Smith. The world already knows Geno Smith isn’t fit to be a quarterback in the NFL. Add this to the looooong list of things Ben McAdoo doesn’t know. I think we’ll put this right in between ‘how to comb your hair’ and ‘the meaning of embarrassed’.

I never thought the Giants would bench Eli Manning. They should have traded him at the deadline, but that’s a different story. I thought they’d let him start the rest of the season, and watch him don another team’s jersey next season. If you decide to bench Eli, you must play Davis Webb, as he is the only unknown here. And as poor of a decision as that would have been, at least McAdoo(dle) could have fallen back on ‘future of the franchise’. So, rather than fall on the sword, McAdoo is pushing Eli on that sword, in the most disgraceful way possible.

Oh yeah, coach McAdoo(dle) offered Eli the choice to continue starting games, and be pulled at halftime, solely to keep his games started streak alive. As always, Eli responded to that nonsensical notion in the only way a classy person can:

“Coach McAdoo told me I could continue to start while Geno and Davis [Webb] are given an opportunity to play,” Manning said. “My feeling is that if you are going to play the other guys, play them. Starting just to keep the streak going and knowing you won’t finish the game and have a chance to win it is pointless to me, and it tarnishes the streak. Like I always have, I will be ready to play if and when I am needed. I will help Geno and Davis prepare to play as well as they possibly can.”

At the end of the day, organizational decisions are approved by the person who signs the checks. At least they should be. Giants’ owner, John Mara, should be ashamed of himself. For Mara to allow McAdoo(dle) to make this decision, when McAdoo(dle) won’t be the head coach next year, IS ABSURD!!!! So rather than allow Eli Manning to ride off into sunset, the Giants are going to drag him through the mud first.

I guess there’s a reason the words classy and NFL organization don’t often collide in the same sentence….

 

Post your thoughts on Eli Manning’s benching in the comment section below. I know a lot of you have a lot to say, so don’t hold back.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports .

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

NFL Won’t Give Players A Puncher’s Chance

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

aqib-talib-michael-crabtree-fight

Chain Snatchers II

I care about me!! Me, ME, ME!! If there were thought bubbles floating above Aqib Talib and Michael Crabtree during Sunday’s brawl, that’s what they’d read. Less than 3 minutes into Week 12’s matchup between the Denver Broncos and the Oakland Raiders, things got out of hand.

Sunday’s altercation was a continuation of a feud that’s been brewing since Week 17 of last season. While tangled up along the sideline, Talib snatched Crabtree’s chain off his neck. Fast forward to this past Sunday….

Talib did it again!!

Click here to see the entire fight.

Rightfully upset, Crabtree drove Talib to the ground, taking out a camera man in the process. And a melee ensued. After a 5-minute delay, 3 players were ejected:

Aqib Talib

Michael Crabtree

Gabe Jackson

Talib and Crabtree were ejected for throwing punches, and Jackson was tossed for shoving an official to the ground.

Monday night, the NFL doled out lofty suspensions. While it appears Jackson won’t be suspended, Talib and Crabtree both received 2-game suspensions. From an outsiders perspective, this doesn’t sound too harsh, but as far as NFL suspension precedent is concerned, these are hefty suspensions. Both players plan to appeal their suspensions.

Stay tuned….

Monday Night Rears Its Ugly Head

If the season ended today, the Baltimore Ravens would make the playoffs. That is sad. At 6-5, they hold the tiebreaker over the Buffalo Bills for the 6th and final playoff spot in the awful AFC. As if the Patriots don’t dominate enough, their road to the Super Bowl is as traffic-free as I can remember.

In the year of terrible quarterback matchups, Monday Night Football lined up a doozy; Tom Savage Vs. Joe Flacco.

42-69, 393 yards, NO touchdowns, and 2 interceptions.

That line of nastiness would be the combined stats from Savage and Flacco. Stellar!! For my math wizards out there, yes, that WOULD be 5.6 yards per pass attempt. That’s not good either.

Well, the Ravens eked out a 23-16 victory, showcasing the mediocrity the AFC breeds.

I’ve Never Seen That Before 

What was supposed to be a nice little Saturday, turned into the oddest thing I’ve ever seen on a basketball court. The Alabama Crimson Tide were battling the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the championship game of the Barclay’s Center Classic. After jawing between Minnesota’s Nate Mason and Alabama’s Collin Sexton, double technical fouls were assessed. Just 27 seconds later, a fight broke out. After collectively stepping onto the court, 5 players from Alabama’s bench were ejected. Another fouled out. And just a few plays later, another left the game with an injury.

The result??

5-on-3 basketball. The Alabama Crimson Tide played nearly 14 minutes with only 3 players. The craziest part….they outscored Minnesota 55-48 in the 2nd half. Ultimately they would lose 89-84, but Alabama put forth a valiant effort behind Collin Sexton’s 40 points.

I can now cross ‘watch a 5-on-3 college basketball game’ off my bucket list.

 

What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever seen during a sporting event?? Tell me all about it in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports .

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

Favorites Are Favorites For A Reason

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

mccown fumbles

Week 12 was not a good week for underdogs. Of the 15 games played, so far, only 2 “upsets” have occurred.

Bills Vs. Chiefs

Personally, I didn’t consider this game an upset. The Kansas City Chiefs are playing as poorly as anyone in the league (losers of 5 of their last 6). Inexplicably, they were favored by 8.5 points against the Buffalo Bills. Yes, they were at home (Arrowhead Stadium is a tough place to play). And yes, the Bills weren’t exactly trending in the right direction either. But, that spread assuredly cost Las Vegas a lot of ‘Monopoly Money’. The Bills won the game 16-10.

The Buffalo Bills run defense had turned into Swiss cheese prior to their trip to Kansas City. In the Bills’ previous 3 games, they had allowed an average of 212.6 yards per game and 11 total rushing touchdowns. Guess how many yards the Chiefs rushed for on Sunday….Seriously, guess.

55.

Their leading rusher was quarterback, Alex Smith (35 yards).

What once looked like as uneven a matchup as the NFL could find (in Week 13), is now a battle of mediocrity: Kansas City Chiefs @ New York Jets

Cardinals Vs. Jaguars

Heading into Week 12, the Jacksonville Jaguars were leading the AFC South with a record of 7-3. That doesn’t look, or sound right does it?! The Jaguars’ early season success has been predicated on stellar defense and a strong running game. Rookie sensation, Leonard Fournette has had a tremendous season, however, since he tweaked his ankle in Week 7, hasn’t had the same explosiveness. And Blake Bortles isn’t to be relied on — ever.

In case you haven’t guessed yet, the Jaguars lost 27-24.

Let’s take a look at how Blake Bortles stacks up against the competition:

Passing Yards: 21st (2,244)

Touchdowns: T-22nd (12)

Completion Percentage: 31st (58.3%) 

As you can see, he’s really REALLY bad. He should buy his defense the best Christmas present ever, because they are saving his job, 1 sack at a time.

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Ah yes, and then there’s my Jets. They don’t disappoint me — anymore. I am a seasoned veteran as it pertains to New York Jets’ letdowns. At no point during Sunday’s game did I think the Jets would win. No, not even when they were winning 20-18 heading into the 4th quarter.

And right on cue, Josh McCown inexplicably attempted a pass, while in a defenders grasp, and lost the ball. Panthers’ linebacker, Luke Kuechly, promptly scooped up the ball and pranced into the end zone.

Lead blown.

As if that wasn’t enough torture for one afternoon, the Jets surrendered a 60-yard punt return for a touchdown just 2 minutes and 11 seconds later. YAY!!

Only the Jets (yes I know the Browns still have a team), can lose in such horrific fashion.

Final Score: 35-27 (not the Jets)

If there’s a silver lining, Jets’ wide receiver, Robbie Anderson, has scored a touchdown in 5 consecutive games. At least we have that going for us….

 

Which football game(s) were you watching on Sunday?? Tell me all about it in the comment section below.

You can now find me on the Radio too. Download the TuneIn Radio App and search OWWR. I’ll be on live every Wednesday from 6:10 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page: http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports .

Since you enjoy my writing, follow me on twitter @DaveEttinger2 or like my page on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/DaveTalksSports. You can also Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!