COACHING POINTS
Larsen switched roles for the Broncos in a situation that was common many years ago
Dick Thornton
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| New England’s Matt Cassel could play a big part for the Patriots against the Dolphins. |
Rookie Spencer Larsen played both fullback on offence and middle linebacker on defence for the Denver Broncos due to starter injuries at both positions. In this age of specialization, he's only the fourth player in 18 years to do double duty, though back in my era it was an every game occurrence. Times have sure changed!
Comedy of errors
Listened to the complete 15 minute Overtime Period of the snoozer between the Eagles and Bengals and it was almost comical. Possibly, Philadelphia took their 1-8 opponent too lightly and couldn't escape the chaos. Poor special team's play, misuse of the clock, announcers laughing plus a missed field goal at the end, concluded everything in a 13-13 tie. The last time a draw took place was six years ago. Amazing.
Vegas drama
In miserable playing conditions, the Steelers and Chargers slugged it out for nearly sixty minutes, until Pittsburgh kicked a last second field goal for an 11-10 lead. San Diego had one chance and chose to attempt a series of laterals, tossing the ball around like a hot potato. One errant flip was eventually scooped up by SS Troy Polamalu, who trotted in for a touchdown, which made the score 17-10. Yet, after a 15 minute debate, the officials declared a 'no play' (big mistake that was acknowledged later) and the original score line stood. Drama only occurred in Nevada (millions of dollars were bet) because the Steelers were (-5) point favourites. That final touchdown, had it counted, would have covered the spread. As it turned out, the Charger punters (including me) won in the end. You win some and lose some in weird and wonderful ways.
Sleeper San Francisco (+10.5) at
Dallas (UNDER 46.5) TV
Two illustrious teams from a few decades ago meet again.
The Cowboys looked shakey in their victory over the Redskins while the 49ers blew away the Rams and are coming together under interim HC Mike Singletary.
Got a hunch that San Fran (+10.5) just might hang tough in Texas so taking the points in a ball control (UNDER 46.5) type contest.
Upside down
New York Jets (+5.5) at
Tennessee (OVER 40.5)
The Titans won ugly again last weekend to remain the NFL's only unbeaten team but the Jets seem to be jelling at just the right time.
With their victory over the Pats, they are brimming with confidence and sense they have a definite shot to explode tonight.
Taking New York (+5.5) and their rejuvenated offence to at least beat the line in a game that goes (OVER 40.5) in total points.
All or nothing
Minnesota (OVER 41)
at Jacksonville (-2.5)
Two members of the Viking's defensive line face possible suspensions for using a banned substance, which puts the Jaguars in a very advantageous mindset position for this game.
Taking the home team, Jacksonville (-2.5) to get back on the winning track in a game (OVER 41) of big plays.
Stranger than fiction
New England (+1) at
Miami (OVER 41.5)
This could be a 'trap game' because the Dolphins, although playing much better than last season, aren't quite up to the same caliber as the Pats.
Going with QB Matt Cassel and New England (+1) as they continue to improve each time out.
The Wildcat offence might put some points on the board though as the battle goes (OVER 41.5).
No double D's
Tampa Bay (-8) at
Detroit (UNDER 41.5)
When the Lions are not double digit dogs go against them. The Bucs (-8) are fighting for a play-off spot, so expect them to play solid - no mistake football. Detroit is executing so poorly, the stadium might be empty at half time. This team will want to get in and get out - so like the (UNDER 41.5).
Pressure cooker
Oakland (+9) at
Denver (OVER 42.5)
For some unknown reason, the Broncos always have problems when the Raiders come to town. The Silver & Black (+9) fought hard last week in their 2 point loss to Miami and maybe take the game down to the wire. The scoreboard also lights up, so banking on the (OVER 42.5) in total points.
Defence reigns
Carolina (UNDER 42)
at Atlanta (-1)
This NFC South battle has many play-off implications, so believe both teams will be playing it 'close to the vest'. The Georgia Dome will be rockin thus giving the nod to the Falcons (-1) and the (UNDER 42) when the buzzer sounds.
Stumbling block
New York Giants (-3) at
Arizona (UNDER 48.5) TV
The Cardinals are flying high but haven't faced much competition of late. They barely beat the 9er's and just squeaked by the Seahawks. The Super Bowl champs are a different kettle of fish and love the Giants (-3) here as Bird's QB Kurt Warner will be on his heels all day. Good defence from both (UNDER 48.5) will keep scoring down.
Sink or swim
Indianapolis (+3) at
San Diego (OVER 49.5)
A lot is at stake for both in the Wild Card race, but Indy (+3) has the momentum while the Chargers season is slipping away, being a full two games back of anything. It is crunch time (OVER 49.5) as the afternoon air will be filled with spirals all day long.
MNF Special
Green Bay (+2.5) at
New Orleans (OVER 53)
With a three-way tie in the NFC North, every game is of vital importance so like the Pack (+2.5) coming off a big 37-3 win over the Bears. The Saints (5-5) have been erratic all season, but always light up the scoreboard (OVER 53) at home.
Quick shots
The Browns (-3) defence comes up big again when they face the Texans. The Eagle/Raven contest will be well below the (UNDER 39) total while the Bills (-3) get back to winning ways at Arrowhead. The Bears (-7.5) should easily manhandle the hopeless Rams and it's a must victory for the Redskins (-3.5) at Qwest Field in Seattle.
YTD: Correct 123 - Incorrect 83 - Pushes 6
Contact coach Dick Thornton at coachdt@gmail.com
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