Category: NFL

And The Worst Team In New York Is……..

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

eli

The Giants are a really bad football team. Expectations were sky high leading into the season for the New York Giants. Some were calling it a “Super Bowl or Bust Season”. Experts and fans alike saw their 11-5 record from last year, combined with a ferocious defense, and expected improvement. Not so much.

The New York Giants took on the Detroit Lions in their home opener on Monday Night Football. How can I put this nicely?? The Giants looked TERRIBLE — again. Click here to see the box score. They have a multitude of problems, none of which can be fixed mid-season. Let’s go to the video tape! Okay, I don’t have video tape, but I did make a list:

  • They have the worst offensive line in the NFL
  • They have the worst rushing attack in the NFL
  • They have 13 total points through 2 games
  • Eli Manning is old

Offensive Line Is Offensive

This may be the worst offensive line ever. But it’s not their fault. To return the exact same starting offensive line from last year (when they were dreadful!) is criminal. Giants’ General Manager Jerry Reese should be arrested. This offensive line’s ineptitude was on full display last night, giving up 5 sacks. Psst….you do know the Lions have 1 of the worst defensive lines in the NFL right?? I’m just sayin’.

Ghosts Can’t Play Running Back

And that segues perfectly into the nonexistent rushing attack. A team’s rushing attack, when effective, is a combination of a stout offensive line and a talented running back. It’s like peanut butter and jelly. 1 doesn’t often go without the other. However, even if this offensive line was good, I doubt you’d be able to run the ball with the three-headed-kitten of Paul Perkins, Orleans Darkwa, and Shane Vereen. This ‘bad ass’ trio has combined for a lowly 97 total rushing yards through 2 games (worst in the NFL).

That’s Not Gonna Cut It

13. 13 points. How is it possible the New York Giants only have 13 points through 2 games?! It’s the franchise’s worst 2-game stretch since 1947, when the team only scored 7 points. The Giants’ 13 total points ranks 3rd worst in the NFL (only the 49ers and Bengals have less). I don’t care who you’re playing, you’re not going to win averaging single-digit points per game. Odell Beckham Jr. may have played last night (in limited action), but he’s only 1 guy. And last time I checked, he’s not the Lord and Savior.

Eli Manning Is Old And Slow

Eli Manning has always been slow. But now, he’s old AND slow. And he’s playing like he really, Really, REALLY doesn’t want to get hurt. I don’t blame him, but this is a bad combination for a team relying heavily on their passing attack. Even if Odell Beckham Jr. was at full strength, and Brandon Marshall wasn’t dropping more passes than Sprint drops phone calls, Eli Manning simply isn’t willing to stand in the pocket and take a whoopin’ like he used to.

The Giants’ schedule doesn’t get any easier either, as they travel to Philadelphia to take on the Eagles in Week 3.

Strap in and get comfy. This is going to be a lonnngggg ride.

And I thought life as a Jets’ fan was rough….

 

Are the Giants the worst team in the NFL?? Convince 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.

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 called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

 

Who Needs Football When You Have The Cleveland Indians?!

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

indians

Baseball vs. Football. It’s usually a lopsided battle, and doesn’t often carry as much drama as Batman vs. Superman. Football is the most popular sport in the country, and the proof is in the ratings. However, last night, I chose to watch a baseball game rather than a football game. If the matchups on Thursday Night Football continue to be this crappy (they will), I’ll soon be choosing basketball over football.

Thursday Night Football was played on NFL Network. We had the displeasure of watching the Houston Texans take on the Cincinnati Bengals. I can moan and groan about the game for hours, but I think the score tells enough of the story. 13-9. After posting just 3 lowly field goals, the Bengals are still searching for their 1st touchdown of the season. For those who watched, I feel sorry for you.

The play of the game WAS a 49-yard TD run by rookie quarterback, Deshaun Watson. Since you missed it, click here to watch the replay. That was literally the only exciting play of the game. You would have been better off slamming your head against a wall for 3 hours, rather than watch the rest of the game.

If you were like me, you only watched paint dry, I mean the football game, on commercial breaks from the baseball game.

The MUST WATCH baseball game was the Cleveland Indians vs. the Kansas City Royals. The Indians were attempting to win their 22nd consecutive game. Coincidentally, 22 was the total number of points scored in the football game (just sayin). After going down 1-0 in the 2nd inning, the Indians quickly tied the game in the 3rd inning. They would find themselves trailing again (2-1), this time in the bottom of the 9th inning. Down to their final strike, Francisco Lindor drove a ball off the left field wall, driving in Erik Gonzalez from 1st base. The crowd erupted in a way normally reserved for walk-off home runs in Game 7 of the World Series.

To extra innings we go….

Jose Ramirez, Indians 3rd baseman, led off the bottom of the 10th inning with a double. Ramirez stretched a single into a double when he saw Royals’ center fielder, Lorenzo Cain lazily collect the ball. I love when guys hustle like this!! Edwin Encarnacion then walked, putting runners on 1st and 2nd with nobody out. And with the game tied 2-2, former Mets’ slugger, Jay Bruce came up with the walk-off double, ripping the ball down the right field line. Let the celebration begin!!

The Cleveland Indians have now won a record breaking, 22 consecutive games. With 2 more games against the Royals (and their shoddy pitching staff), the Indians could extend this streak through the weekend. Game #23 will be played tonight @ 7:10 P.M. EST. Jason Vargas and Trevor Bauer will climb the bump in this one.

My money is on the Indians. A prediction only a genius could make, right??

 

What did you watch last night?? Crappy football, or entertaining baseball?? 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.

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 called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

Ugly Football/MLB History — Whatever Will We Watch??

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 2 Comments

cleveland indians

It’s a great time to be alive!! The NFL season is in full swing. MLB is nearing the home stretch. NBA is just 1 month away. And, NHL is only 3 weeks from the drop of a puck. Today, NFL games are the ‘talk of the town’.

Thursday Night Football

Yup, it’s Thursday already. The day you wake up and say, man I’m exhausted, I don’t know how I’m going to make it through this day. And then you remember there’s a football game tonight. Awesome!! I’m looking forward to fighting with my eyelids this evening.

Tonight, the Cincinnati Bengals host the Houston Texans. Both teams will look to bounce back from awful performances in Week 1. The Houston Texans got blown out 29-7 by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Texans quarterback, Tom Savage, was unimpressive to say the least. The Texans have been silent on their starting quarterback decision for tonight’s game, but one with a brain would assume it’s going to be Deshaun Watson. If not, Bill O’ Brien should be placed in the hot seat.

The Cincinnati Bengals literally can’t play worse than they did last week. They were the only team to be shutout, as they lost to the Baltimore Ravens 20-0. Is it possible Andy Dalton thinks it’s still Preseason?? Dalton threw 4 interceptions Week 1. Thursday Night Football doesn’t seem to enhance the level of play, due to the short week, so don’t expect an offensive masterpiece to appear in front of your eyes around 8:30 P.M. on NFL Network.

Prediction: Texans 21, Bengals 17

MLB Record Book

The Cleveland Indians swept the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday, making history. They also swept the Orioles, White Sox, Yankees, Royals, and Tigers again on their way to winning 21 consecutive games. This feat ties the 1935 Chicago Cubs for the most consecutive wins in the regular season in MLB history. The Indians have vaulted themselves from decent playoff team, to World Series’ favorite in just 3 short weeks. While I’m not sure they’ll win the World Series, they’ve been extremely impressive during this streak. The most runs they’ve given up in the past 21 games is 6, and they’ve posted 7 shutouts.

Tonight, they’ll go for sole possession of the record against the Kansas City Royals. I have no clue where you can find this game on TV, unless you live in Kansas City or Cleveland, but I’m sure ESPN or MLB Network will give Live Look-Ins to the game if they’re winning. First pitch is set for 7:10 P.M. EST, and Josh Tomlin will take the mound against Jake Junis.

Prediction: Indians 6, Royals 4

 

Do you think the Indians will break the record tonight??

Who do you think will win Thursday Night Football??

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 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

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 called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

Get Used To Me Couch, The NFL Is Back!!!!

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 2 Comments

jets stink

That was fun!! We should do that every week. What do you say, we get together next Sunday, around 1 o’ clock?? Yeah, you can come over, and we’ll watch football for 11 straight hours while we eat guacamole and drink beer. It’ll be great!!

After being forced to wait 7 months for football, the NFL finally returned, and it did not disappoint. My team, however, is another story:

New York Jets

1 down, 15 to go. As a lifelong Jets’ fan, this is going to be the weirdest season I’ve ever experienced. Today, I am glad they lost. Their performance was encouraging. It showed me they are capable of losing to anyone. Although their defense is decent, they will be on the field too often to impact the game positively. They lost 21-12 to the 1st place Buffalo Bills (man that sounds weird).

New York Giants

Few teams looked worse than the Jets yesterday. The Giants were one of them. They lost to the Dallas Cowboys 19-3. 3. 3 points.

“7. 7 miles per hour. And usually when I pull someone over they pull over to the side of the road!”

Last time I checked it’s hard to win a football game when you only score 3 points. Did I mention the Giants only scored 3 points?? People can talk about Odell Beckham Jr. not playing all they want, but it all boils down to the Giants’ offensive line. They can’t protect Eli Manning. They can’t provide running lanes for their running backs. I’m surprised they don’t get penalized more often. Last night, they made the Cowboys defense look like the ‘Steel Curtain’.

The Giants have the worst offensive line in the NFL. 

Stinky QB Play

Two quarterbacks were pulled from their respective games yesterday, Tom Savage and Scott Tolzien. I’m not sure who was worse….

Scott Tolzien: 9/18 for 128 yards, 2 INT’s, and 1 fumble

or

Tom Savage: 7/13 for 62 yards and 2 lost fumbles

Tolzien was pulled from the game for newly acquired Jacoby Brissett. Brissett has only been on the Indianapolis Colts for 8 days, so he will be given a longer leash than Tolzien. It’s safe to say the Colts can’t wait for Andrew Luck to return to the field. For my eyeballs’ sake, I can’t either.

Despite having the emotional Houston crowd behind him, Savage was only able to muster 62 yards passing against a mediocre Jacksonville Jaguars defense. Oh, and the Jaguars had 10 sacks. Savage was replaced with rookie Deshaun Watson. Watson looked good, scoring a touchdown on his opening drive, but it was too little, way too late. The damage had been done. Hopefully, the Texans are smart enough to start Watson next week.

Too Smart For Their Own Good

The Philadelphia Eagles looked good yesterday. Carson Wentz looked good yesterday. And most would say head coach, Doug Pederson, looked good yesterday. The Eagles beat the Washington Redskins 30-17. Pederson’s mathematical blunder went unnoticed because they were winning, but bonehead decisions like these will cost you games in the future. The Eagles returned a Kirk Cousins’ fumble for a touchdown, going up 28-17 with 1:29 left in the 4th quarter. Pederson and the Eagles proceeded to go for a 2-point conversion.

I’ll give you a second to let that sink in….

Now, if you know anything about football, or numbers, you’d know going for 2-points in this situation is the wrong decision. There is no difference in being up 12 (kicking the extra point) versus being up 13 (going for 2). The only risk is not converting the 2-point conversion, only being up 11, and allowing the Redskins to climb back into the game. If you didn’t notice this mistake, don’t feel bad. The professional commentators announcing the game didn’t notice either.

 

There are still 2 Monday Night Football games left to close out Week 1. The New Orleans Saints will visit the Minnesota Vikings @ 7:10 P.M. EST, and the Los Angeles Charges will visit the Denver Broncos @ 10:20 P.M. EST. Both games can be seen on ESPN. I will be sound asleep before the 2nd game starts.

 

What was your biggest take away from the 1st Sunday of the NFL season?? 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 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

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 called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

 

 

So Much For 16-0 Huh????

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 6 Comments

brady

Hey Tom, let me see your mad face….

 

I LOVE IT!!!!

Everyone in the world makes assumptions. Football fans assume the New England Patriots will win every game. It’s true. Everyday for the past 3 months, I’ve had to listen to “experts” tell me the Patriots could go 16-0 this season. How’s that workin’ out for ya?!?! 

Listen, the Patriots are a great franchise. They will be fine. They’ll still win the 12 games I predicted they’d win. Remember my AFC East Predictions?? But I must enjoy this moment. If you are like me, and fell asleep on the couch at halftime, you missed a thrilling game. Luckily, I DVR everything, so I was able to re-watch the Patriots “collapse”.

The Patriots gave up 21 points in the 4th quarter and lost 42-27.

Let’s start with some insane Patriots’ statistics to put this once-in-a-lifetime happening in perspective:

  • 42 points are the most a Bill Belichick coached Patriots’ team has ever given up — ever
  • Alex Smith became only the 2nd quarterback to post 350+ yards and 0 interceptions against the Patriots under Belichick (the other is Drew Brees)
  • The Patriots had won 9 consecutive home-openers
  • The Patriots gave up a record-setting 246 scrimmage yards to Chiefs’ running back, Kareem Hunt (a rookie record)
  • The Patriots had won 87 consecutive home games when leading at halftime

Yeah, love ’em or hate ’em, the Patriots are really really really good. That’s what makes the Kansas City Chiefs’ performance so impressive. Alex Smith did his best Aaron Rodgers impersonation (368 yards, 4 TD’s, and 0 INT’s). The aforementioned Kareem Hunt put on a show. After losing a fumble in his 1st NFL carry (he didn’t lose 1 in 4 years of college), Hunt was on a mission. He finished with 148 rushing yards and 1 TD and 5 catches for 98 yards and 2 TD’s. And we can’t forget the defense. The Chiefs’ defense held Tom Brady to 16 for 36 passing (44.4 completion %), just 267 yards, and NO TD’s. OH, and they sacked him 3 times.

Despite everyone thinking Bill Belichick is impervious to criticism, allow me to blame him for something. Woah, woah, easy now Dave. When the Patriots were up 7-0, and the Chiefs turned the ball over, Belichick decided to go for it on 4th and 1 on the Chiefs’ 10-yard line. THIS IS WRONG!! I don’t care who you are, or what you’re trying to do. In the 1st quarter, you continue to put points on the board. If Belichick chose to go up 10-0, rather than turn the ball over and downs (and gift-wrap some confidence for the Chiefs), this game may have ended differently.

Allow me to rewind to the Pre-Game:

After the Patriots put on an absolutely nauseating pre-game ceremony, the game looked like it could get out of hand in a hurry. Speaking of that ceremony, I’m wondering how many people actually threw up before they were able to change the channel….

You’re the Patriots. You win Super Bowls every other year. This isn’t new. So did you really need to have Mark Wahlberg drive half of the country to suicidal thoughts?? Did you really need to wheel your 5 Super Bowl Trophies onto the field?? “Hey everybody, come see how good I look!!” Did you really need to post the time and score of last year’s Super Bowl (ATL 28, NE 3 with 2:12 left in the 3rd quarter), just prior to your epic comeback, on every scoreboard in the stadium?? “Yes Frank, we know you had a good time. I think the whole town knows you had a good time.”

Now, as much as I’m reveling in this Patriots loss, I’ve been a Jets/NFL fan long enough to know what’s about to happen. Just like the time the Patriots lost 41-14 to the Chiefs (Week 4 of 2014), and everyone and their mother pronounced that the beginning of the end for Brady and the Patriots, something happened. And that something was the Patriots rattling off 7 straight wins, en route to a Super Bowl Championship.

Expect something eerily similar.

Man do I feel bad for Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints….

 

Did you enjoy this Patriots’ loss as much as I did?? What do you think their record will be for the season now?? Admit you were wrong, and then post your new 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 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

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 called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

 

 

Hey..Psstt..I’ve Got A Great Business Idea For You….

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 2 Comments

craig-cartin

You are a bad guy!! No no, I’m not talking to you (the reader), I’m talking to Craig Carton. This, allegedly, is a really bad human being. Be careful everyone, I’m being very judgmental today.

Craig Carton

What a bleeping scumbag!! This guy was arrested by the FBI in a $5.6 million scam. Carton was duping investors in order to cover his gambling debts. Debts that had reportedly reached millions of dollars. Carton is ‘in the hole’ with 2 casinos as well as an unidentified individual. How the hell do you fall so far into debt?!?! Carton, along with Michael Wright, are formally being charged with securities fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy. The maximum sentence is 45 years in prison. Have a nice time buddy!!

Here’s the deal: Carton set-up a fake, ticket-selling business. He lied and forged documents to dupe people into investing into his “business”. He forged signatures, posing as the concert vendors for stars like Adele, Justin Bieber, and Katy Perry. His Ponzi-Scheme reached unbelievable heights, as billionaires Michael Dell and Paul Tudor Jones are on the Carton’s victims list. Carton was arrested early Wednesday morning at his Manhattan home. The real sad part in all of this, he has 4 children.

Roger Federer

On the lighter side of things, oh well, maybe not that much lighter. Roger Federer lost in the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open Wednesday night. As a big Federer fan, this disappoints me. I was looking forward to another edition of Federer vs. Nadal. Thanks a lot Juan Martin Del Potro!! You don’t have to believe me, but as much as I like Federer, I predicted this. Del Potro has simply been playing too well. Federer’s 41 unforced errors and 5 double faults probably had something to do with it as well. Now, Nadal’s path to a 3rd U.S. Open title (I predicted that as well) is as clear as it gets.

We have an All-American semifinal on the Women’s side:

Venus Williams vs. Sloane Stephens and Madison Keys vs. CoCo Vandeweghe (All are in action tonight)

Let’s Go Venus!!

NFL Kick-Off

And last, but certainly not least, the NFL. The 2017 season finally kicks-off tonight. The defending champion, New England Patriots play host to the Kansas City Chiefs. You can catch the action on NBC @ 8:30 P.M. EST (which really means 8:50 pm). I’m on my way couch!!

In New York news, the Jets will travel to Buffalo to get the ball rollin’ on their 0-16 campaign. And the Giants will take their talents to Dallas to battle the Cowboys (with Ezekiel Elliot) on Sunday night.

Due to Hurricane Irma, Week 1’s match-up between the Miami Dolphins and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has been postponed to Week 11 (both teams original Bye Weeks).

Stay Safe Everyone!!

 

What have you been watching in the world of sports this week?? Are you as excited as I am for the NFL Season?? Post your thoughts 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.

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 called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

Back To School Special

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 4 Comments

nfl

“Back to school, back to school, to prove to my dad I’m not a fool.”

Yes ladies and gentlemen, it’s that time of year again. Time to get the kids on the bus, and send them off to school. Let’s just hope your child isn’t going back to kindergarten at the age of 35 (haha).

Labor Day Weekend is an exciting time. It marks the opening of the College Football season. Baseball is in the home stretch. The U.S. Open is approaching the semifinals. And last but certainly not least, the NFL is just days away….

College Football

What an exciting week of college football!! Although there were many games worth staying up until midnight for, 2 stood out:

Texas A&M vs. UCLA

All you need to know is Josh Rosen and the UCLA Bruins overcame the largest deficit in college football since 2006. 34 POINTS!! A 48-yard field goal put the Aggies up 34 with 4:08 left in the 3rd quarter. Those would be the Aggies’ last points. It was ALL UCLA from then on. 5 touchdowns later, UCLA walked away with a 45-44 victory. Insane!!

Tennessee vs. Georgia Tech

Labor Day brought us a thriller!! A double-overtime thriller!! Sometimes that QB moniker is just for show, as TaQuon Marshall is technically Georgia Tech’s quarterback. His stat-line would beg to differ:

44 carries for 249 yards and 5 touchdowns and 5/9 passing for 120 yards.

WOW!! Despite Marshall’s incredible performance (in his 1st game ever), Georgia Tech fell to 25 ranked Tennessee 42-41.

U.S. Open

For those who haven’t noticed, tennis’ final Grand Slam is well under way. And no, you don’t need to adjust your eyeballs. Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Venus Williams are all in the Quarterfinals of the U.S. Open. Hey guys, psst, where can I get some of that fountain of youth stuff?? Venus will take on 13th ranked Petra Kvitova tonight @ 7:00 P.M. EST. Federer lands a tough draw as he’ll take on Juan Martin Del Potro. And Nadal will play Andrey Rublev. In a highly anticipated match-up, Federer and Nadal would play each other in the semifinals. Multiple fingers are crossed….

Baseball

There’s impressive, and then there’s what the Arizona Diamondbacks did on Monday. Both of these feats were accomplished against the all-mighty Los Angeles Dodgers (keep that in mind). Robbie Ray, Diamondbacks pitcher, was perfect through 5 innings. His first blemish, a leadoff single by Logan Forsythe in the 6th inning. Ray would go 7 and 2/3 innings giving up just 3 hits and striking out 14. And to think Ray wasn’t the best player on his own team on Monday….

That distinction belongs to J.D. Martinez. Martinez hit 4 HOME RUNS in this game!! He became just the 18th player to go yard 4 times in 1 game.

NFL

I like to save the best for last. The 2017 NFL season kicks-off in 2 days!! I’m so excited I think I just, uh yeah, I just wet myself. Game 1 of the NFL season is the Kansas City Chiefs @ the Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots. You can watch Tom Brady and the Patriots handle their business on NBC @ 8:30 P.M. EST. There’s no pre-game speech necessary for the NFL. It speaks for itself. Don’t forget to set your Fantasy lineups….

 

What were you watching this past weekend?? Don’t be afraid to 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 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

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 called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

 

 

NFC West Preview

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

nfc-west

Annnnddddd last, but quite possibly least, the NFC West. Last season, this was the weakest division in the NFL, with only 1 team above .500. I don’t envision that changing — the weaker the quarterbacks, the weaker the division….

Last Season’s Standings:

Seattle Seahawks: 10-5-1

Arizona Cardinals: 7-8-1

Los Angeles Rams: 4-12

San Francisco 49ers: 2-14

From worst-to-first we go….

San Francisico 49ers

You may want to buckle your seatbelts, because this ride is going to get bumpy. The 49ers will battle the New York Jets for the worst offense the NFL has ever seen. They will also battle the Jets for the worst record in the NFL. Despite John Lynch’s successful 1st offseason as 49ers’ General Manager, this team is going to be BADDDDD!! They did draft good, young talent, so NFL fans can enjoy watching their improvement, but until they find a quarterback, expect the 49ers to draft in the top-5 every year.

Key Additions: Pierre Garcon, Elvis Dumervil, Malcolm Smith

Key Losses: Antoine Bethea, Glenn Dorsey, Torrey Smith

Los Angeles Rams

They can move across the country. They can change their name. Hell, they can even change their hair color and get a tattoo. Nothing will keep them from stinkin’ up the joint. The Los Angeles Rams (I’m still getting used to that) would have a solid defense IF Aaron Donald would show up. But Dave, he’s just one guy. I’m aware. But that ONE GUY happens to be the best defensive player in the NFL. Their offensive line is key. They must give Jared Goff time to find his new wide receivers, Sammy Watkins and Robert Woods. And they must provide running lanes for the super-talented Todd Gurley. Until those things happen, the Rams offense will stall, like a beat-up, old car.

Key Additions: Robert Woods, Andre Whitworth, Sammy Watkins (Trade) 

Key Losses: Kenny Britt, Greg Robinson, T.J. Mcdonald 

Arizona Cardinals

Everyone on the Arizona Cardinals is another year older. Profound right?? Cardinals quarterback, Carson Palmer, is 109. Seriously though, he’ll be 38 years old before season’s end. Larry Fitzgerald (34) is no Spring chicken either. This team will rely heavily on star running-back David Johnson. They will also hope and pray Johnson can repeat his performance from last season, 2,118 total yards and 20 total touchdowns. I’m sure there will be similar hoping and praying going on with the #1 overall pick in Fantasy Football drafts.

Key Additions: Jarvis Jones, Karlos Dansby, Antoine Bethea

Key Losses: D.J Swearinger, Calais Campbell, Jaron Brown

Seattle Seahawks

Who knew the New York Jets would play a role in someone winning football games?? Not me. Friday afternoon, the Jets parted ways with Sheldon Richardson, trading him to the Seattle Seahawks. Despite being a malcontent, Richardson is a special talent. He’ll help strengthen an already stellar defensive line. The only question is, how bad is this offensive line?? NFL experts project this offensive line to be one of the worst in the league. If Russell Wilson is afforded any time to throw, or room to run, this division will be a walk in the park.

Key Additions: Eddie Lacy, Luke Joeckel, Sheldon Richardson (Trade)

Key Losses: John Jenkins, Jermaine Kearse, Steven Hauschka

This Season’s Predictions:

Seattle Seahawks: 11-5

Arizona Cardinals: 7-9

Los Angeles Rams: 5-11

San Francisco 49ers: 3-13

 

As a whole, the NFC West stinks.

The Seahawks will win this division by default.

“That’s all I have to say about that.”

 

Who will win the NFC West?? 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 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

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NFC South Preview

~ Dave Ettinger ~ Leave a comment

nfc south

Is it possible for every team in 1 division to be .500 or better?? If it’s going to happen in 2017, it’s going to happen in the NFC South. This division will feature 4 very good football teams competing for playoff spots in the NFC…..

Last Season’s Standings:

Atlanta Falcons: 11-5

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 9-7

New Orleans Saints: 7-9

Carolina Panthers: 6-10

From worst-to-first we go….

New Orleans Saints

Notoriously good on offense. Notoriously bad on defense. That’s been the headline in New Orleans for the past few years. Expect more of the same. Only this year, Drew Brees has his work cut out for him. Brees is a future hall of famer, so he’ll steer the ship in the right direction, but it’s not easy when your #1 receiver is Michael Thomas. No offense to Thomas, after a phenomenal rookie season, but he’s not a #1 receiver — yet. For all you fantasy lovers, anticipate an Adrian Peterson resurrection. This, of course, depends on Mark Ingram’s carries, but those have declined steadily every year Ingram has been in the league.

Key Additions: Adrian Peterson, Ted Ginn, Larry Warford

Key Losses: Brandin Cooks, Tim Lelito, Roman Harper

Carolina Panthers

I foresee the Carolina Panthers bouncing back in a big way. Last season, Cam Newton was coming off an injury. He, along with the Panthers defense, got off to a slow start. Expect Newton to return to MVP form and drive his team to success. Their defense is still very solid, led by Luke Kuechly at the middle linebacker position. The Panthers should compete for an NFC Wild Card spot this season. The addition of Matt Kalil will be important. Kalil will help protect Newton’s blind side, keeping Newton from ending up on his back every 5 seconds.

Key Additions: Matt Kalil, Captain Munnerlyn, Mike Adams

Key Losses: Michael Oher, Ted Ginn, Mike Tolbert

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

If you haven’t watched Jameis Winston play, you’re missing out. He is as talented a player as you’ll find in this league. The question is, can he take another step forward this season. His improvements from his rookie to sophomore campaign were noticeable, and the addition of DeSean Jackson won’t hurt. Their defense is solid. And while I don’t love their running attack, Winston’s arm is such a threat, he opens up running lanes for Jacquizz Rodgers and Doug Martin. Don’t be surprised when the Buccaneers challenge the Falcons for the NFC South Division Title.

Key Additions: J.J, Wilcox, Desean Jackson, Nick Folk 

Key Losses: Vincent Jackson, Alterraun Verner, Daryl Smith

Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons had a magical 2016 season. Even though they blew the biggest lead in Super Bowl history, they greatly exceeded expectations. This year, they will do the opposite. Everyone expects them to waltz through this division, like a stroll through Central Park. While I think they’re a good team, slight regression is on the horizon. Matt Ryan has finally received the credit he’s been due for the better part of a decade, and Devonta Freeman is shaping into a top-5 running back in the league. Their defense, however, will let them down. Don’t believe me?? You’ll see the light soon, don’t worry. I still have them winning the NFC South by virtue of a tiebreak over the Buccaneers.

Key Additions: Dontari Poe, Hugh Thornton, Jack Crawford 

Key Losses: Dwight Freeney, Sean Weatherspoon, Jacob Tamme

 

This Season’s Predictions:

Atlanta Falcons: 10-6

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 10-6

Carolina Panthers: 8-8

New Orleans Saints: 6-10

 

This is going to be a really solid division.

They have 4 great quarterbacks in a league that is run by quarterbacks.

Who do you think will win the NFC South?? 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 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

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 called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!

 

 

 

What’s A Zeke?? (AKA NFC East Preview)

~ Dave Ettinger ~ 4 Comments

nfc-east-preview

No one will be paying attention to football in the NFC East this season. Well, at least for the first 6 weeks. All eyes will be glued to the Ezekiel Elliot situation. Elliot has been suspended by the NFL for 6 games due to violation of the personal conduct policy. ‘Zeke’ as his friend calls him, has decided to appeal the suspension. The appeals process started Tuesday, and ahhh who cares!! Don’t be a bad guy, and you won’t get suspended. Anyway, let’s talk about the NFC East….

Last Season’s Standings:

Dallas Cowboys: 13-3

New York Giants: 11-5

Washington Redskins: 8-7-1

Philadelphia Eagles: 7-9

You know how this works by now. Worst-to-first….

Philadelphia Eagles

Expect regression. Yes, their offensive line is pretty good. Yes, Carson Wentz has a few new weapons to play with. Yes, they still have ugly uniforms. But that doesn’t mean they’re going to be good this year. I don’t think Wentz is going to be an elite quarterback. Their defense is nothing to write home about. And expect to be extremely disappointed with their latest running back acquisition, LaGarrette Blount. He will be the bust of the year. And the Eagles will call 4th place in the NFC East home. Sorry Philly. Beautiful city. Amazing cheese steaks. Bad football team.

Key Additions: Alshon Jeffrey, Jordan Matthews (Trade), LaGarette Blount

Key Losses: Bennie Logan, Conor Barwin, Leodis McKelvin

Washington Redskins

The Washington Redskins seem to be stuck in purgatory. Never good enough to make a run in the playoffs, but never bad enough to get the top pick in the NFL Draft. After an offseason of playing hardball with their own quarterback (smart!), the Redskins can look forward to another season of average. They will be the definition of average this season. Like last year, they will have a good passing attack, but their running game will plod it’s way down the field. Outside of their left tackle (Trent Williams), their offensive line is not very good, and their defense is eh.

Key Additions: Terrelle Pryor, D.J. Swearinger, Brian Quick

Key Losses: Pierre Garcon, DeSean Jackson, Kory Lichtensteiger

Dallas Cowboys

Last season was no Tony Romo, no problem. This year it’ll be No Ezekiel Elliot, big problem. Listen, their offensive line is so good I could run for 1,000 yards back there, but potentially missing Elliot for 6 games is not a recipe for success. No matter how many games Elliot plays this season, expect regression across the board. Last season’s record of 13-3 (2 of their losses coming by way of the Giants) was the result of a perfect storm. Their defense will take a BIG step back this season. While they will make the playoffs this year, I don’t see an NFC East Division Title in their near future.

Key Additions: Nolan Carroll, Stephen Paea, Taco Charlton (Draft)

Key Losses: Ronald Leary, Brandon Carr, Rolando McClain  

New York Giants

The New York Giants are always an interesting team, right?? They have spectacular regular season’s, and fall short of expectations. And then they turn around and run the table, as an underdog, twice. All while simultaneously having stability. Curious, isn’t it?? I expect the former this season. They will have a very good regular season en route to their 9th NFC East Division Title, but they’ll lose in the 1st round of the playoffs. Pencil in more of the same from Eli Manning, decent numbers with too many turnovers. Their running game will be bad, but their defense will be top-10 in the league.

Oh, and expect to see Eli Manning on his back more than you’re accustomed. This offensive line is REALLY BAD!!

Key Additions: Brandon Marshall, Rhett Ellison, Evan Engram (Draft) 

Key Losses: Ronald Leary, Johnathan Hankins, Rashad Jennings, Marshall Newhouse

 

This Season’s Predictions:

New York Giants: 10-6

Dallas Cowboys: 9-7

Washington Redskins: 7-9

Philadelphia Eagles: 6-10

This is a well-balanced, healthy, nutritious meal. No, this is a well-balanced division. Expect entertaining football when the NFC East is on TV.

Who do you think will win the NFC East?? If you have a different opinion than me, you’re wrong, but you can still post 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 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M EST. I also broadcast every show on Facebook Live via my DaveTalksSports.com Facebook Page.

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 called DaveTalksSports. Thanks for reading!! Now go tell all your friends!!