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Ian Aberdein
Manning, Leaf and the 1998 Draft
Feature Article
April 12th 2013
Peyton Manning, or Ryan Leaf? The very question sounds too ludicrous for us even to contemplate now, 15 years later. Yet in the weeks leading up to the 1998 draft, that very question was on everybody’s lips in the NFL… ( full article )
Alistair Houghton
Get in line
Feature Article
December 5th 2012
It is a football cliché that you build a team from both lines out. Certainly, in this pass orientated league, having a strong defensive line can cover for many holes on defence. But what about offensive line play? Do you need a top offensive line to be in contention with winning a Superbowl?… ( full article )
Adam Goldstein
Tailgate To Heaven
Ultimate Roadtrip
June 20th 2012
NFL superfan Adam Goldstein sold his house, left his job and left behind his girlfriend before starting out on a roadtrip that saw him take in 40 NFL games in one season. Here, he tells his story – and anticipates the publication of a book recounting his experiences in July… ( full article )
Alistair Houghton
Backup success
Feature
February 29th 2012
The hierarchy of the Indianapolis Colts got a very rude awakening this year after Peyton Manning’s injury exposed the big weakness in their team: that they were built entirely around Peyton Manning. So is it possible to succeed in the NFL when your top gun goes down?… ( full article )
Graeme Young
Who Can Stop The Pack?
Feature Article
December 3rd 2011
The Green Bay Packers led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers have swept all before them this season. That is on the back of a six win finish to end their 2010 season, which included four victories in the playoffs which was topped off by their victory in Super Bowl 45. Graeme Young takes a look at who is most likely to hand Green Bay it’s first loss… ( full article )
Andy Ayrton
Dallas, a real life soap opera?
Feature
September 22nd 2011
When businessman and former University of Arkansas football player Jerry Jones bought the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 he had one single goal: make the Dallas Cowboys the most successful franchise in NFL history. “Americas Team” had been in the doldrums for a long time and the once successful drafting of endless star talent had not produced the riches it used to… ( full article )
Graeme Young
NFL Top 100 – A Deeper Look
Player Analysis
July 21st 2011
I’ve let the dust settle for a week or so and listened to the experts claim sacrilege on certain player rankings in the NFL Network’s Top 100 players of 2011. So let’s delve deeper and look at a handful of players who I think are in the right spots, others who are too low, and some who are simply too high… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins and Micheal Kavanagh
Newton’s Law
Four Downs
April 28th 2011
The one guarantee of the off-season is this weekend’s NFL Draft. The attention of the entire football world will be on New York City as 32 franchises give their verdict on the hundreds of young men entering the NFL at this time of uncertainty. Two of the Diner’s regular crystal ball gazers give their forecasts for the Draft… ( full article )
Dan Ericsson
Turning of the Key
Lockout 2011
March 14th 2011
Dan Ericsson tales a look at the possible scenarios that could be played out as top NFL and player represenative brass try to find a resolution and save football for 2011… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Super Bowl hopes for Lynch?
Four Downs
January 15th 2011
This week Dang and Doc look ahead to the four Divisional playoff round games and make their picks about who will be going through to play for the Conference Championships, just one step from Dallas and the Superbowl. Can Seattle expect further success?… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Where are you Jim Zorn?
Four Downs
January 8th 2011
Dang and Doc look at the hottest duo in football right now, Stanford Cardinals QB Andrew Luck and Head Coach Jim Harbaugh, and discuss their future. Staying on the West Coast, the Raiders released Tom Cable after their first non-embarrassing season for nearly a decade, is this wise? And they close out by previewing this weekend’s four Wild Card match-ups… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Where are you Jim Zorn?
Four Downs
December 26th 2010
Are the Redskins in a worse state now under the Shanahans than they were a year ago under Jim Zorn? It may not be the festive news Mike wants to read in the latest edition of the Diner’s longest running regular column… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Head coach carousel
Four Downs
December 10th 2010
With Josh McDaniels being the third in-season coaching change, Dang and Doc look ahead to the end of the season and predict the next coaches to get moved on in the NFL. All this and much, much more in the latest Four Downs… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
McNabb tied up?
Four Downs with Dang & Doc
November 20th
From being benched in the final minutes to signing a supposed terrible a long term contract; things in DC are as confusing as ever. Dang and Doc cut through the waffle and break down the facts on the biggest stories of the week in another jam packed Four Downs. Is it good news for Donovan McNabb?… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
October 16th 2010
Dang and Doc, grumpy following the continued failings of their own teams take a pessimistic look at the NFL. There are no more undefeated teams after week five, the first time since 1979. Is the parity across the league a good or a bad thing? And what does this mean for the NFC; who’s the best team in the swamp? Elsewhere, the quality of QBs seems to be dwindling – why is this? And finally, shifting gears, Alabama dropped to #8 in the rankings after losing one game. Is their new position an accurate reflection of their standing?… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Randy’s Return to Minnesota
October 6th 2010
Randy Moss’ sensational return to Minnesota from the New England Patriots has the NFL world talking of nothing else, but who is the real winner? Dand & Doc go toe to toe… ( full article )
Liam Blackburn
Vick’s ascendency may render McNabb’s legacy obsolete
October 2nd 2010
Donovan McNabb’s intra-divisional switch this off-season was described by the man himself as “a new chapter in the book of Donovan”. But this weekend everyone will turn back a few pages and reflect on his time in Philadelphia as Number 5 returns to his old stomping ground
… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Whatever happened to… the 2005 Texas Longhorns?
September 17th 2010
The 2005 National Championship game, played on January 4th 2006 at the Rose Bowl in California, was heralded at the time and for months after as not only the greatest game of all time, but a game that would be looked back on for the sheer number of future NFL superstars that it would produce. Four and a half years on – as many of them enter their fifth season in the NFL – I’ve revisited that game to assess whether the hype around it was justified and what, if anything, we should learn from the ‘Greatest College Game Ever’ and how it impacted on the NFL
… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Four Downs with Dang & Doc
September 8th 2010
The 2010 NFL season is upon us and Dang and Doc are back to give you their predictions for the next five months of action. They leave no stone unturned picking winners, losers, surprises and disappointments
… ( full article )
Liam Blackburn
Favre Watch 3: Same Old, Same Old
August 11th 2010
At first it was an intriguing storyline. It was a fascinating thriller, capable of twisting this way and that. Even the sequel managed to enthral us all. Revenge was the added subplot in the second version and our hero had an obstacle to overcome, a point to prove against his former friends. The plot of this summer’s Favre Watch, Favre Watch 3, took an unsuspecting twist this past week
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
April 22nd 2010
Today sees the first NFL draft in a new style as we move to prime-time mid-week for the first round. And what do the Diner’s mystic duo see happening in their crystal ball? The talent pool is considered to be one of the best for some time ahead of the unknown that comes in 2011. Expect the usual intrigue, shocking picks and draft day drops all weekend
… ( full article )
Michael E Lawrence
T is for Tannenbaum, trades
April 13th 2010
The Jets are the league’s most active traders under GM Mike Tannenbaum. With Santonio Holmes and Antonio Cromartie added this off-season, nine of 22 projected starters have been obtained that way. But is it genius or madness? We break down Tannenbaum’s penchant for trading
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
1/4/2010
The Diner’s resident duo are back after a post-season breather and settle back in the booth to chew the fat over free agency, changes to the post-season overtime rule, how the draft is looking just a month away and the continued controversy over Ben Roethlisberger
… ( full article )
Liam Blackburn
No Substitute For Age & Experience
11/3/2010
The rather intelligent Albert Einstein once declared that “the only source of knowledge is experience”. It’s a mantra that NFL teams seem to have considered long and hard this off-season when considering who should fill the position of the most-knowledgeable man on the sidelines
… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Power Ranking The Decade: The Final Poll
#10-1
5/3/2010
In the final part of our countdown of team rankings over the course of the decade we take a look at the elite teams. Who is king of the mountain? Who could have been king had they not slipped up just a couple of times? Who is the best team of this past decade not to win the ultimate prize? Read on to find out
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
12/2/2010
Dang and Doc sign off the 2009 NFL Season with their recap of Superbowl XLIV. There were some great efforts on the Saints side and Drew Brees took home the MVP award, but who was the real MVP for the Saints? The game was the highest watched show ever, but where does it rank amongst the great games for Dang and Doc? On the other side of the ball, all the focus has been on Peyton Manning – did he cost the Colts the game, and is he in danger of letting his career down if he doesn’t get further playoff wins?
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Sharp-eyed fans take note
6/2/2010
The Super Bowl is upon us. Hundreds of millions globally will be tuned in and analysis of everything is eagerly devoured in the lead-up. The competing narratives of the current player aiming to be recognised as the greatest in the form of Peyton Manning vs the city and team on the brink of a glorious redemption will make this year’s version of the greatest of games as significant as it always is. Sharp-eyed football fans will have noted most of the variables, pondered most of the likely events and outcomes but while viewing from a long way away keep in mind some of these crucial factors:
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
4/2/2010
Dang and Doc reflect on whether Matt Leinart is ready to step into Kurt Warner’s shoes in Arizona and whether the Pro Bowl is now of so little value that it should be scrapped. Meanwhile Mike Vick is probably scouting the league to see if he’s got a chance to start somewhere and our pundits offer their thoughts on where that might be. Finally, Chan Gailey is the new Head Coach in Buffalo; is that the worst job in the NFL?
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Favre Passes Batton To Saints
27/1/2010
Two years is a long time for anyone but as was evident to anyone who stayed up to watch the legend that is Brett Favre fire a pass into the welcoming arms of a defender for a relatively easy interception, it is inevitable that the same moment played out two years ago is fresh in the mind. Favre is of course the most well known and for that reason polarising of players in the NFL and his legacy is as much for the glorious failure as it is for the astonishing records
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
22/1/2010
With the Divisional Playoffs in the book Dang and Doc ask whether the unfancied Jets can keep their run going and overcome the Colts this Sunday. But where do the team they beat – the Chargers – go from here? And a lot of team’s troubles seem to come from the kicking positions – why is that? Finally, there appears to be a bit of unease about whether the UK will get a second game in 2010, but are fans worrying too much?
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
QBs vs D
14/1/2010
 The NFL is a quarterback’s league. The game is designed to showcasing the gaudy passing statistics that the Green Bay Packers and Arizona Cardinals threw out in the Wildcard Round. This is what the NFL fanbase seems to expect as the aerial bombardment of the college game seeps into the league. The AFC though has given us a test of whether this league really does belong to the passers alone and all the cards are stacked in the QB’s favour this time. Round two of the AFC playoffs – the Divisional Playoffs – matches up two of the very top quarterbacks in the game against teams built with an entirely different philosophy
… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
NFL Draft Prospects
The FD Top 5
7/1/2010
There are twenty NFL fan bases looking towards the future right now. The immediate future for these teams is free agency, but with no real progress currently being made with the Collective Bargaining Agreement, everything is completely up in the air. As always, your faithful Diner is on the case of the NFL Draft already. The big boards are posted all over the place from ESPN to nfluk.com, and everyone has an opinion. Today, Top Fives makes a double comeback as I’m going to look at who I believe are currently the most overrated and underrated players available in the Draft according to what I’ve seen thus far
… ( full article )
Brian Davis
12 Days of 49er Christmas
24/12/2009
Rage Against The Machine may well be the Christmas #1 but that’s not the tune Brian Davis is humming around the Diner kitchen. Push Slade to one side, eject that Cliff Richard CD (or more likely cassette) and press pause on your iPod Xmas Shuffle selection, it’s time for the 12 Days of 49er Christmas
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
10/12/2009
How did Mike Vick perform in Philadelphia after his cameo performance back in Atlanta? Is it time to anoint Darrelle Revis as the top corner in the league? In the NCAA Texas nearly committed footballing suicide on Saturday night, but still ended up in the National Championship; do they deserve it? And college’s most prestigious individual prize is handed out on Saturday, but who do the resident duo think should win?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis
NFL Milestones
3/12/2009
Believe that statistics and milestones define how a player is remembered?
The diner checks out the milestones that are being reached in the 2009 season, amongst the all-time leaders and greats to have ever played the game.
We keep an eye on those that are being achieved within the year to give you something to follow and check out through the season.
Marcus Allen – look away now
… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Diary of a Saint
28/11/2009
Life in the Irish American Football League
After working late into the night on Thursday, I was up at 8am, out of the house by 8.20, and fighting my way across Friday morning Dublin traffic. If you have no point of reference for that think of those lines out of a city that’s being evacuated due to some impending doom in all of those movies – you know, lanes of stationary cars going nowhere fast
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
14/11/2009
Can the NFL’s two remaining undefeated teams to make it all the way through to 3rd January without defeat? Behind the usual two candidates who is the next best QB in the NFL? In the college ranks, the same three teams continue their road to the National Championship game (after the SEC Championship eliminates one), but who’s primed to take one of those spots if someone slips up? And has this all added up to this NCAA season being a bit boring? Dang & Doc reveal all
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
5/11/2009
Changing In The Bays
Switching schemes is always a difficult process and the defensive transition the Green Bay Packers are going through at the moment is a clear example of some of the positives and weaknesses of making a big move. Meanwhile over in Tampa the newly installed worst team in the NFL are at the start of a radical overhaul of their entire franchise.
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Crash Of The Titans
15/10/2009
Tennessee is in trouble. The Titans were not expected to match their AFC best 13-3 record from last season but to be 0-5 is a remarkable decline. Next up on the schedule are the New England Patriots and the top ranked team in the conference last season could be looking at an 0-6 record heading into the bye week. It does not get much easier after the break and the turnaround from championship contenders could realistically be a dip from 13-3 to a 3-13 record this term
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
St. Louis Ramshackle
1/10/2009
Pro football is a deliciously brutal world and injuries are part of it. Injuries are not evenly distributed around the league and luck has little if anything to do with that. The Week 3 game between the Green Bay Packers and the St. Louis Rams is a case in point. The Packers are not known as one of the NFL’s most physical teams yet they put a toll on St Louis that saw QB Bulger, WRs Laurent Robinson and Donnie Avery, and Safety James Butler all withdrawn from the action
… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Opening Weekend
12/9/2009
On Friday, September 9, 1960, the Denver Broncos defeated the Boston Patriots 13-10 on the back of the first ever AFL touchdown, a 59-yard scoring pass from quarterback Frank Tripucka to receiver Al Carmichael. This was Genesis for the AFL, a league founded by a group of businessmen dubbed ‘the Foolish Club’ by the established league that had snubbed them
… ( full article )
Khaled Elsayed
Making Sense Of The Richard Seymour Trade
9/9/2009
It’s very rare in the modern game that we see such a huge trade go through completely out of the blue. But on the 6th September 2009 the New England Patriots traded away one of their most recognisable (and productive) players in Richard Seymour. For a SuperBowl contender to give up one of its prized possessions and get nothing in return for 2 years is somewhat shocking. It’s understandable and there’s a perfect logic to it, but who (if anyone) won?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
NFC West
2/9/2009
Dang and Doc close out their weekly previews of the divisions by looking at the NFC West. Last year the division produced the NFC’s Superbowl representative, but will this happen again? Are the 49ers on the right track under Mike Singletary? And what does the future hold for the new Head Coaches in Seattle and St Louis and their respective veteran Quarterbacks?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
NFC North
12/8/2009
This week Dang and Doc move onto the NFC North, and promise a Favre-free zone. Amid all the focus this division has received, is it home to the most complete team in the NFC in the Vikings? Who is poised to challenge or even topple them this season? Will the revitalised Lions rise like a phoenix from the flames with a new head coach, new players and a new uniform? And does all this make the north the powerhouse of the NFL?
… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Eugene Parker – Nemesis
9/8/2009
With the Collective Bargaining Agreement in chaos and the NFL’s salary cap in jeopardy, Eugene Parker senses a unique opportunity to torpedo the slotting system that has worked for years, and get his client a deal way out of proportion with the rest of the draft class
… ( full article )
Khaled Elsayed
The Playoffs Are Not Enough
5/8/2009
Ever feel that your time is running out? Much like Robert Carlyle’s Renard character in the World Is Not Enough as he attempts to take over the world, San Diego are running out of time in their effort to win a SuperBowl. Only instead of a bullet slowly making its way to the cerebral cortex, the Chargers could be about to see an exodus and demise of one of the most talented rosters in recent NFL memory
… ( full article )
Brian Davis
NFL Milestones
30/7/2009
Believe that statistics and milestones define how a player is remembered?
The diner checks out potential milestones that can be reached in the 2009 season, amongst the all-time leaders and greats to have ever played the game.
We have dug out those that are achievable within the year to give you something to follow and check out through the season.
Marcus Allen – look away now
… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Who Will Take The Michael?
28/7/2009
Which team will take the chance? Which team will risk the fan backlash? Which front office will put their reputation on the line in order to see if Michael Vick still has the athletic ability that has put the fear of god into NFL defenses in the past? All these questions need to be considered but as well as teams considering Vick, Vick has to consider what he is prepared to do and accept
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
AFC North
17/7/2009
Dang and Doc cast their eye over the AFC North. Can the Steelers repeat as Champions? Will Derrick Mason’s retirement be the difference between a playoff spot and disappointment for the Ravens? What impact will Eric Mangini make in Cleveland with his revamped roster? Is there any room for optimism for the Bengals?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
9/7/2009
With the start of the 2009 NFL season now within sight Dang and Doc are beginning a week by week preview of each of the Divisions in the NFL (with a week off to look at the start of the college football year). This week they look at the AFC East. Seen by many going into 2008 as the most predictable division in football, it turned out to be anything but. Heading into week 17, three teams could have won the division. In the end, the Dolphins reversed their 1-15 2007 record and came out on top. The East has seen each team make some major moves in the off-season and the division is going to be one of the most intriguing in the coming year
… ( full article )
Khaled Elsayed
The Emperor’s New Clothes
25/6/2009
Right now Pat Bowlen is preparing to address Denver, Colorado in nothing but his birthday suit. I’ll give you a second to get that mental image out of your head. Long enough?
Bowlen was long applauded by his public for the success he helped bring to Denver. Super Bowls and stability are more than most fans would ask for, but it wasn’t enough for Pat who wanted more, because being perennial contenders was simply not enough
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
11/6/2009
With Stock still on IR, Four Downs is brought to you as “Dang & Doc” discussing the effect Brian Westbrooks health may have on the Eagles, wondering if we could once again see the LA Rams in the NFL, decide if the road to the AFC East goes through Miami, and debate which out of the three top-rated QB’s entering their senior year in 2009 is the most NFL-ready?
… ( full article )
Khaled Elsayed
He Broke My Heart
1/6/2009
I remember everything about it. I had just come in from a night out at university, slightly worse for wear and hyped up on red bull. I was a poor student and couldn’t afford Sky so at 2am in the morning I was left with 5 television channels to choose from, and though I didn’t understand the game I was always a big sports fan. So I decided to give it a try
… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
30/5/2009
It’s coffee ‘n’ a bagel time again at the Diner and Stock and Doc react to Peyton Manning’s outburst in Indianapolis, mull over who’ll be the top receiver in Buffalo next year, consider which coach is going into the new season with much to prove. And finally they look at whether Mike Leach is right and Graham Harrell did deserve having his name called in the Draft
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Monarchs Mk.2
14/5/2009
Commissioner Roger Goodell has been discussing the possibility of running two regular season games in the UK for the 2010 season. NFL Europe was ultimately deemed a failure after enjoying popularity in the early going and blame has been placed on it being a second rate group of players being involved. For that to be true, NFL regular season games have to embody a special quality of intensity and importance
… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
23/4/2009
It’s all about the draft in this edition of Four Downs, to help out Stock and Doc invite James izzard inside the booth to forecast what’s likely to happen in the biggest weekend of the football year not on the field. But the guys can’t let the other major news pass without comment as John Madden bows out from our screens… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
4/4/2009
This week the guys look at who the winner was in the Jay Cutler trade, whether the Niners should pass over Mark Sanchez given the chance, evaluate the linebacking corps of the 2009 draft and close by pondering whether 2009 will replicate 2008 with no receivers going in the first round… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
20/3/2009
Just to prove that Jay Cutler isn’t the only story knocking around the NFL this week, Stock and Doc also chew the fat over DeMaurice Smith’s appointment to the NFLPA, take a look at Torry Holt’s future career prospects, and discuss who is the next best receiver – behind Michael Crabtree – in the 2009 NFL Draft… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Play To Your Strengths
5/3/2009
Success in the NFL often comes down to comparative advantage and the New York Giants understand where their team’s differentiation lies. Having set the model for success with the defensive line in their Super Bowl XLIII win the Giants have refined it this year and they have refined in the most appropriate way an NFL team can – with quantity
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Pay Lewis Day
19/2/2009
Despite their fearsome reputations and intense playing styles, both Ray Lewis and Brian Urlacher represent the greatest of dilemmas facing an NFL team in the current salary cap era in that neither will be worth the money their history demands.
Under the cap the arch sin is to invest heavily in a player based on reputation, yet to the fanbase there seems to be nothing less forgivable than moving a former superstar off the books… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Power Ranking The Decade:
The Update
10/2/2009
Last season the Diner offered a power ranking of the decade so far and with another season gone by it’s time for an update. Who has climbed? Who has dropped like a stone?… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
6/1/2009
The Road Ahead
Arizona has a mountain to climb to ensure that Larry Fitzgerald’s burst through the center of the Pittsburgh Steelers defense to make it 23-20 is not the highlight of Cardinals franchise history. The defeat in Super Bowl XLIII has to be one of the most heartbreaking any team has endured with the team apparently on the verge of victory only for the greatest of all the modern era franchises to snatch the win away… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Super Bowl Pub Quiz
28/1/2009
It’s the biggest Sunday of the year. No matter how long you’ve been a fan you’ve likely seen it all. From Joe Namath’s guaranteed victory, to Adam Vinatieri’s guaranteed leg. From the 17-0 Miami Dolphins completing the perfect season, to the 18-0 New England Patriots falling at the final hurdle, let’s get cracking!… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
23/1/2009
The Diner Duo are at it again in another packed issue. Listen in as they debate Kurt Warner, who is the better defence in the AFC, the NFL’s hiring’s and firings, the futures of T.O. and L.T. as well as concerns for the TV coverage in the UK and closing with a look at the players who have declared for the 2009 NFL draft… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
How To Guide:
Return To The Super Bowl
15/1/2009
This year Baltimore have achieved more than they could possibly have achieved in their wildest dreams, but this will be the Ravens third crack at trying to beat the Steelers. Luckily for John Harbaugh the FD How To Guide is back, detailing what needs to be done to return the Ravens to the Super Bowl for the first time in 8 years… ( full article )
Sam Monson
The Spread in the NFL
8/1/2009
Every year that guys are being downgraded because they come from spread offenses, which traditionally inflate offensive statistics and make it tough to thoroughly evaluate talent. However in 2008 the NFL witnessed some impressive production from a mix of college style offenses… ( full article )
Sam Monson
The Diner ‘Experiences’ Buffalo
3/1/2009
The weather in the western New York state area had been unseasonably warm in the couple of days before the game, causing around two feet of snow to melt away. This was undoubtedly fate attempting to trick our small party of four into leaving a few extra layers at home… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Coach of the Year
20/12/2008
There are almost too many to choose from. They’ll probably have to draw it out of a hat when decision time comes around. From Jeff Fisher’s glorious 10 win start to Tony Sparano’s miracle turn around in Miami, here’s a look at a coaching class that deserve recognition as we approach the end of the regular season… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
12/12/2008
This week, Stock and Doc look at the likely fall-out from Sunday’s huge encounter between Dallas and Pittsburgh, who has the edge of the three 8-5 AFC sides, whether Boise State have been hard done by the BCS and consider where does Tebow fit in the all-time college football greats… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Head Coach Shoogly Pegs
The FD Top 5
6/12/2008
With 4 weeks to go in the NFL season the play-off picture is taking shape, but for some, it’s just the beginning of the planning for 2009. This week, Top Fives look at 5 Head Coaches who may, as we say in Scotland, find themselves on “shoogly pegs”. That’s the hot seat for everyone else… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Player Awards: a sneak peak
The FD Top 5
28/11/2008
It’s awards time! Well strictly, it’s not, as it’s only just Thanksgiving but we here at the Diner are normally one step ahead. This year there are a few candidates out there would could really make it interesting as the votes are taken in. This week, Top Fives picks five candidates for the 5 main player awards, and ranks their chances… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Fines Getting Out Of Hand?
19/11/2008
The fining system has exploded this year. I don’t think there are too many people who disagree in principle with the idea that we need to protect the players, but when did that become issuing $15,000 fines for facemask penalties? Anybody who steps over the line deserves his fine or suspension, but at the moment it looks like somebody has moved that line to a strange place… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
The Imperfect Season
The FD Top 5
14/11/2008
This year there is another team going for perfection. Detroit are trying to succeed where Miami failed last year by finally picking up a win against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 14. This time round the Lions may be more prepared for the ultimate losing season than the Dolphins were… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
31/10/2008
Doc is joined by fellow Diner writer James Izzard to debate four NFL-related topics, as Stockers recovers from the excesses of the International Series weekend. On the menu this week is Mike Singletary, Phil Rivers’ quality, whether the Jets would be better with Pennington, and in Dallas, is a rock or a hard place the place to be at QB?… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
25/10/2008
This week Stock and Doc look ahead to the NFL game in London this weekend, focusing on what will happen on the field, and whether the skies will be a problem for the game’s future. In other news is removing your Head Coach mid-season a way to resolve your problems and the guys look at Penn State, and ask if they are legitimate National title contenders ahead of their huge game against the Buckeyes this weekend… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
(Passing) Records Are Made To Be Broken
21/10/2008
The mark of 5084 passing yards Dan Marino achieved in 1984 is part of arguably the greatest season ever by a QB. Marino almost single handed led his team to a Super Bowl where they came up short against the 49ers but nevertheless, Marino was unstoppable that year. The threat to this mark comes from Saints QB Drew Brees… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
NFC Playoff Race
The FD Top 5
15/10/2008
Everyone expects the two Wildcards to come from the NFC East, but it may not be as clear cut as it looks. Suddenly the unstoppable Beast of the East has been taken down, at least for one week. Admit it, there’s no way you predicted the Redskins would lose to the Rams… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Quarterback Controversies
The FD Top 5
8/10/2008
In contrast to the revolving QB door during the 2007 season, this year saw untested signal callers come into the team on Opening Day hoping to make an impact. This Week on Top Fives we rate the 5 more high profile quarterback controversies and how these guys have performed 5 weeks into 2008… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
3/10/2008
Stock and Doc chew the fat over the surprising undefeated teams of the AFC, and whether there is a shift in the balance of power in the NFL. In the ranks of the college leagues, can Nick Saban lead the Crimson Tide all the way to the National Championship game, or will USC rebound to get all the way?… ( full article )
Rob Staton
There’s only one Ronnie Brown
27/9/2008
When you looked at the schedule for week 3 of the NFL season, hands up who thought Ronnie Brown was going to be the major talking point? I’ll answer that for you. Nobody did… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
18/9/2008
This week, the guys reflect on those teams who have had successful and unsuccessful starts to the season, what the Browns should do at quarterback, where Rich Rodriguez goes next with Michigan and whether Ohio State deserve to be mentioned as among the elite in college football after another resounding defeat… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Those Painful Calls
17/9/2008
I know there’s an army of Chargers fans out there, led by a frothy mouthed Norv Turner, who may disagree with me but the fact of the matter is that the Refs are probably more upset by their bad calls then the fans are. Let’s not forget that these zebra coloured enforcers are not your ordinary sports arbitrators… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
11/9/2008
This week the guys digest the first weekend of the NFL season, and consider the impact of Tom Brady’s knee injury and where the biggest surprise in week 1 came. In the college ranks, is East Carolina for real and what will happen in the Coliseum this weekend when two NCAA juggernauts collide?… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Culpepper Retires – But Why?
8/9/2008
Daunte Culpepper is being forced into retirement by a league that’s simply not comfortable with him acting as his own agent. At the age of 31, when most great quarterbacks were just getting into their stride, and in a league that is prepared to send JT O’Sullivan onto the field as an opening day starter, Daunte Culpepper can’t find work… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Eli Manning
Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde?
3/9/2008
Has there ever been a player in the NFL whose reputation has changed as quickly as Eli Manning’s? This time last year he was the reason the New York Giants weren’t a Superbowl contender. Then in the course of five games his reputation was transformed… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Joe Flacco – When to Start?
28/8/2008
The Baltimore Ravens drafted Joe Flacco 18th overall in this year’s NFL Draft, and they now find themselves faced with the question that plagues every franchise with a newly drafted QB – When to start him?… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
College Preview
26/8/2008
This week, Stock and Doc are joined by fellow Diner writer and NCAA observer, James Izzard for a special and extended version of Four Downs to preview the forthcoming college football season… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
21/8/2008
This week, Stock and Doc consider whether poor starts to the pre-season should be of concern to the Conference favourites, if adding John Lynch is a masterstroke or an act of desperation, what the Ravens should do with its quarterback position and close out their 2008 Divisional previews with the NFC West… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
8/8/2008
The guys look at Steve Smith’s conduct in Carolina, whether pre-season has a value, what will happen to 2007’s fairytale Big XII teams, and look at the NFC North without considering Favre…. well, nearly…. ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
31/7/2008
This week, with the beginning of training camp, the guys look at some of the big issues emerging from the camps across the country, what 2008 will hold for Tim Tebow and move onto the NFC East with their season previews… ( full article )
Mark Bielby
Hail To The Redskins
25/7/2008
The UK’s longest running American football fan club is about to see a change. Just as Joe Gibbs has stepped down from the head job in the nation’s capital, President Simon Webster of the Washington Redskins supporters club is about to do the same after ten years in the post… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Jaguars To Become Extinct?
14/7/2008
For once, the Jaguar isn’t the predator it’s the prey. It’s facing a fight against extinction from the NFL, a fight to the death. Los Angeles is hunting for a route back into the NFL and the Jacksonville Jaguars need to prepare for a battle greater than anything they might come up against in the AFC South… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
2/7/2008
DCU vs. The Belfast Bulls – if we won, we were in the playoffs. Well this time ladies and gents, it’s Game-day! I had packed my gear up on the Saturday, ensured everything was washed. I was prepared. This was going to be military precision: Awake at 7.20, up a 7.30, out by 7.45, pick up Dave at 8.00. . . I woke up, glanced at my watch: 8.01am !
… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
26/6/2008
With the regular season nearly finished, we find ourselves in a position to secure a playoff appearance with a win. Our fate is in our own hands, and the atmosphere around the team for the last couple of weeks suggests everybody knows it… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Giant Contract Too Small
17/6/2008
Plaxico Burress deserves a new contract. The New York Giants star receiver is currently getting heat for publicly calling for more cash but he has earnt it. Traditionally no-one likes to see me-first players crying about their huge pay packets and they tend to be castigated for it especially when they take it public rather than handling it internally… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
A Premiership Waste
12/6/2008
Everyone likes to have a little chuckle at Premiership footballers such as Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney for being ‘academically challenged’ to put it politely. That being said, can any of those in the Premiership we like to mock be quite as questionable as Cedric Benson? Or Chris Henry? Or even the “reformed” Adam “Pacman” Jones?… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Who needs a RB?
9/6/2008
When backs like Joseph Addai, Ronnie Brown or Marion Barber get ranked outside the top 10, it immediately sends you looking through the list to find the usurper. Trouble is, there isn’t always one, because all the guys ahead of them are also fantastic backs… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Mean Streaks Through The NFL
3/6/2008
Rampaging through the history of the game players with mean streaks, questionable personal lives and cheats have long been as much a feature of the NFL as the clean-cut all-American heroes. While the NFL is undoubtedly the home of paragons of moral virtue the game is currently establishing exactly where the bad guys might fit in today’s league… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
28/5/2008
So I was back to my role of offensive coordinator, or receivers coach this week, in the shorts and t-shirt getup this time, with the sun beating down on a glorious Sunday morning. As promised loyal Diner faithful, this instalment begins with the tale of a tooth related injury… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Welcome To The New Season – NFC
22/5/2008
Ok, so we’ve now got about 110 days to go to the new season. Last time we had a look at how the AFC is shaping up after mini-camps, and now it’s the NFC. Once again we look at expectations, schedule difficulty and the now infamous best case / worst case scenarios…. ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Out With The Old, In With The New
15/5/2008
The start of training camps and the influx of eager new college players into NFL ranks makes this a time of renewal for NFL teams. The hordes of new guys all keen to break into a lineup are rightly the focus with a range of hotly tipped draft prospects combining with unheralded free agent sleepers to garner the buzz and raise the hopes of fans of each franchise. For every young buck that bursts through, a veteran is forced to make way… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Surprise Me
13/5/2008
The nature of the NFL provides for so much movement from season to season. Every year there are teams and players that do surprisingly well and teams and players that do surprisingly badly and this season will be no different. In fact, there are a couple of big surprises that (in my infinite wisdom) I’ve already foreseen… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
10/5/2008
Our record was now 2-1, level in our division with the Dublin Rebels, perennial powerhouses of the IAFL, and our next opponents. Preparation was called for, we needed to be at the top of our game for the Rebels, and a Friday night training session was arranged… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Is DeSean Jackson the next Maurice Jones-Drew?
7/5/2008
Guys are always compared to those who came before them and there’s one guy in particular who interests me this year. I see him as being ranked against a player who came out in 2006, and whilst they don’t play the same positions they certainly face the same challenges at the Pro level… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Think You Know The NFL Draft?
30/4/2008
There’s a lot of Draftniks out there, and of course we know the best place on the net to come and get some good draft info is the Diner, but how well do you really know the Draft? Just to be on the safe side, I was dispatched to New York City to check it out… ( full article )
Keith Bowden
A Stats Column Without Any Stats
30/4/2008
When were you born?
So I am reading Ed Smith’s fascinating new book What Sport Tells Us About Life. Amongst his many interesting thoughts I came across some research he has quoted by physicist John Wesson. A-ha, I think, there is a topic I could mine for this bi-weekly look at stats in the NFL… ( full article )
Rob Staton
The Calm After The Storm
28/4/2008
Offensive tackles seemed to be a popular choice in the first round, but it’ll be interesting to see how some of them work out. Jake Long was the first man off the board and the Dolphins will be hoping he has the same kind of impact Joe Thomas had as a rookie in Cleveland. Both will play left tackle next season. Are they similar players? Not exactly… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
23/4/2008
This week, its eyes down and look in for the 2008 draft and with that in mind this week’s column has a slight twist. The guys consider what may happen come Saturday at Radio City Music Hall and make their predictions… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
The Greatest Drafts of All Time
22/4/2008
In 1974, the Steelers were coming off the back of their first real success as a franchise. The famous “Immaculate Reception” in 1972 against Oakland gave them their first ever playoff win. They were still quite a way away from a Super Bowl calibre team, however. That changed dramatically practically overnight… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Pencil It In
18/4/208
So there was a two-hour long ‘Schedule Announcement Show’ on ESPN this week. Two hours to announce a schedule… and it was worth every second!… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
17/4/2008
Pre-season training has not gone well. Like that rash you just can’t shift, the injury bug has been a constant problem. Sprinting out of the blocks went fine, the cut was made, the ball was in the air, turn back to find it and…TWANG! Someone had shot me in the leg… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
12/4/2008
Chris Henry is finished in the NFL, Jake Long is not the best offensive line prospect, whereas Devin Thomas will be a first round pick and it is Dan Connor, not Keith Rivers who is the top linebacker. You sure?… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Long Road Likely for #1 Selection
8/4/2008
Bill Parcells and the Miami Dolphins are a little over two weeks away from cashing in the first overall pick, holding the No 1 spot may be a boon but it is not one to be handled lightly. Success is nowhere near as guaranteed as the typically long-suffering fanbase deserve… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Right, Everbody Out!
4/4/2008
I feel like a high school teacher this week. One who has to break up a raucous bunch of students in the classroom next door, because their teacher has had to step out for a few minutes. And who are those students? Why, they’re all of you out there of course… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Bill Belichick – Through the Lens
1/4/2008
Belichick was destined for coaching at an early age. His father was an Assistant Coach at the US Naval Academy, and as anyone who knows anything about the Academy will tell you, it’s a strict regimented regime there… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
How To Use Those Mini-Breaks In Play
26/3/2008
Do you find yourself unwittingly learning line for line an advert you can’t stand, simply because you’ve seen it so many times? It’s time to reclaim those valuable unused seconds of your life and turn them into something productive… ( full article )
Colin Ward
Is David Carr driving the same road as Jim Plunkett?
20/3/2008
A broken quarterback. A maligned player. A man with perhaps one last chance. David Carr. They say that it’s always darkest just before dawn. Well, 2007 got pretty dark for Carr… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Eugene Parker is a Genius
15/3/2008
You might think you know the NFL, know who’s who, and be familiar with all the names you should know, but I’m betting you have no idea who Eugene Parker is. He just made one of the best moves in football this year, and it’s likely to earn him around $900k for the next three years… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
‘Favre’ Downs
with Stock & Doc
12/3/2008
Now that one of the icons of the modern era has announced his retirement, Stock and Doc pay tribute through their first ever special roundtable. The duo debates his place in history, his legacy and of course, the immortal question, is he the best ever?… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Those Crazy Rumours
6/3/2008
So what does a die-hard NFL fan do on the eve of free agency? Well he could do what any normal person would and go to bed with the intention of checking the news in the morning – OR – he could stay up all night constantly refreshing NFL.com for any glimpse of a signing rumour… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
5/3/2008
Asante Samuel to Philadelphia, Derek Anderson to Cleveland & Bernard Berrian to Minnesota are all great moves; but Josh McCown to Miami is a big error! Right?… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Un-bear-able
3/3/2008
Legend says that the losing Super Bowl finalists have a bad year the following season. The Chicago Bears suffered the same curse that has hit so many teams before them, and the hangover looks likely to stretch into free agency… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
The Trouble with Terrell
Rob Staton
The Diner Division Focus: NFC East
Mark Lyne-Austen
The Difficult Business of Free Agency
Sam Monson
Marquee 2008 Free Agents
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs with Stock & Doc
Chris Brophy
I’m Feeling Zorny!
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs with Stock & Doc
CJ Sanchez
Offseason? What Offseason?
Michael E Lawrence
Super Bowl XLII: A Giant Step for Eli
CJ Sanchez
How To Host The Ultimate Super Bowl Party
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Parity & the Super Bowl
Sam Monson
2008 Hall of Fame Inshrinement
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Playing hurt means playing weak
Rob Staton
Panto-Villain Looking To Upstage Stars
Paul Rimmer
Who has broken out in 07?
Sam Monson
100% Cheese Free
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 10/12/07
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 5/12/07
Keith Bowden
The Archers, Mornington Crescent & the NFL
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 27/11/07
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 15/11/07
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 6/11/07
Chris Brophy
Truth, Lies And Statistics
Sam Monson
Mewelde Moore: Forgotten Man
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 22/10/07
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 15/10/07
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 10/10/07
Keith Bowden
14 Golden Fantasy Rules
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 30/09/07
Keith Bowden
Football Songs … An Obsession
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 10/09/07
Keith Bowden
I Can’t Find Anyone To Love
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 01/09/07
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 10/08/07
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 13/07/07
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 17/06/07
Michael E Lawrence
Notes From A Keeper 20/05/07
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Kevin Cunningham
University of Alabama: NFL breathing ground or just another feeder college?
Feature Article
May 22nd 2013
Since Nick Saban decided to turn his back on the NFL and return to the college ranks, his Alabama Crimson Tide football program has pretty much dominated the BSC National Championship Game. However, do these collegiate stars transition seamlessly to the big stage? Are the Crimson Tide standouts simply a product of Saban’s system and team discipline?… ( full article )
Ian Aberdein
Will the real Josh Freeman please stand up?
Feature Article
February 15th 2013
Josh Freeman, above all else, is an enigma. Undoubted talent, a truly excellent physical specimen. Yet one with numerous flaws. The people have Tampa have waited a long time for a quarterback like Josh Freeman and sadly it would be just like that franchise to let him walk out the door in a years time… ( full article )
Micheal Kavanagh
Tailgate To Heaven
Book Review
July 31st 2012
The Diner’s very own Michael Kavanagh takes a cover to cover look at superfan Adam Goldstein’s book recounting his trip of a lifetime around the NFL and likes what he reads!… ( full article )
Alistair Houghton
Death of the draft value chart
NFL Draft 2012
March 12th 2012
The Jimmy Johnson draft value chart is well and truly dead. The final nail in the coffin was provided by the Washington Redskins. Their trade for the second overall pick, owned by the St Louis Rams, completely disregarded the system that has become more and more irrelevant over time… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
What is an ELIte Quarterback?
Feature
February 9th 2012
In the town normally lit up by his big brother, Eli Manning saw off Tom Brady and the New England Patriots for the second time in four years to not only shatter Brady and Belichick’s chances at immortality, but to put himself amongst the discussion of the all-time greats in the League… ( full article )
Alistair Houghton
Flacco has done it in the past
He needs to do it again soon
January 21st 2012
It’s playoff time and once again perennial contenders the Baltimore Ravens are looking strong. Yet the book on the Ravens is simple: stop their running game and Joe Flacco will not be able to put up enough points to carry his team to victory… ( full article )
Brian Davis
32 Thoughts
Midseason Analysis
November 4th 2011
It’s the half way point of the season and as ever the NFL is crammed full of surprises and head scratchers. Brian Davis casts his eye over the league and shares his thoughts on what has happend and what might be… ( full article )
Paul Emery
Mark of approval
Undrafted Free Agents
August 2nd 2011
It’s been a long wait for those prospects such as Boston College LB Mark Herzlich who went undrafted in April. With the lockout over, the mad first few days before teams get into camp began with these guys finally being signed. Paul Emery takes a look at each teams highlights… ( full article )
Dan Ericsson
It’s all kicking off
NFL Owners’ meeting
March 31st 2011
The owners’ meeting isn’t directly part of the ongoing lockout crisis, but it obviously comes into it in part – and the unresolved labor situation underpins all the assorted fun and games that go with it… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins, Micheal Kavanagh and Brian Davis
Tightest bowl in years
Four Downs
February 5th 2011
Which QB would you rather have going into this game? Can the Packers can win this game without establishing a running game? Which unheralded player should we watch out for? And finally, who just might win it? Four Downs is ready to reveal all… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Hold that tongue
Four Downs
January 22nd 2011
Was the week of verbal sparring and bashing in the AFC good for the game? Away from the playoffs, the head coaching picture has become clear, but what do they make of the hirings? And as we head into Conference Championship weekend, they make their picks for who’s going to Dallas for the Super Bowl… ( full article )
Chris Glover
2010 Draft Retrospective
NCAA Scouting
January 2nd 2011
It is often said that the true worth of a draft class cannot be judged until a couple of years after the event, when players have shown who they will be and how they have dealt with their new role and lifestyle. Chris Glover runs down the top five 2010 draft classes to this point… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Who’s your money on?
Four Downs
December 18th 2010
This week Dang and Doc look at the alarming slump the Jets are going through, Urban Meyer leaving Florida, the messy NFC West and this weekend’s big NFC East match-up between the Giants and Eagles… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Clash of the Titans
Four Downs
November 27th 2010
In ostracising Vince Young and going with rookie Rusty Smith at QB is Jeff Fisher doing more damage to the Titans than good?
Dang and Doc get to the root of the problem… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Favre raises more questions than answers
Four Downs with Dang & Doc
November 7th
What would be best for the Vikings, Brett Favre playing within himself to minimise turnovers (as in New England on Sunday) or Favre playing his reckless way? Or is it time to hand the keys to Tarvaris Jackson?… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins and Michael Kavanagh
Todd Haley and Raheem Morris exceeding expectations
Four Downs with Dang & Doc
October 29th
Brew up a fresh pot of coffee and throw two eggs on the hot plate, the Diner boys are back at their usual booth ready to tackle the hot topics of the week: Brett Favre, helmet to helmet kits, the idiosyncrasies of the BCS and the first seven weeks of action in the NFL season. It’s another jam packed issue of Four Downs… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Four Downs with Dang & Doc
October 22nd
Despite new enforced rules the number of helmet to helmet hits don’t seem to have reduced in 2010 as Dunta Robinson’s huge hit on DeSean Jackson last weekend would testify. The question must arise, should the NFL suspend players responsible? Dang & Doc tackle the issues of the day … ( full article )
Peter Cowan
The reeling Vikes gather a Moss
October 9th 2010
There are very few players whose mere presence on an NFL football field changes the way that game is played. Lawrence Taylor demanded double teams. Deon Sanders shut down half of the field. And for the last 11 years Randy Moss has commanded double coverage on virtually every single down. What is even rarer than finding one of these game changers in the draft is trading for a player like Randy Moss
… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
September 25th 2010
The Eagles are seemingly torn between two quarterbacks, but who should be the starter? Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins make the decision easy for Andy Reid on this and other pressing matters hitting the NFL in the latest edition of Four Downs… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Four Downs with Dang & Doc
September 15th 2010
It’s only been one game for each team, but what did they learn from the weekend? The Texans arguably won the biggest game of the weekend; how seriously should the rest of the league be taking them? In the NCAA we’ve had two weeks of action but which player is impressing sufficiently to be leading the early season race for the Heisman? And finally, with the Cowboys and Niners both producing far from impressive results, we give our pundits the chance to let off some steam, which they do with some aplomb
… ( full article )
Liam Blackburn
Like Chalk and Cheese, Leinart Never Developed Warner’s Humility
September 8th 2010
10th January 2010 – the Arizona Cardinals versus the Green Bay Packers in the play-offs. The NFC Wild Card game is taking place and quarterback Matt Leinart has a pitch-side view of a game for the ages. On one side is Leinart’s mentor, Kurt Warner
… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Last of the Two-Way Players
August 26th 2010
Mike Furrey’s career might be over. He was recently placed on IR by the Washington Redskins, and at 33, and dealing with persistent concussions, we might not see him suit up in the NFL again. Why should you care?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs with Dang & Doc
April 29th 2010
Dang and Doc take stock of last weekend in New York City where the NFL Draft took place. The Seahawks were gifted Russell Okung, but Jimmy Clausen took an almighty tumble and Josh McDaniels pulled undoubtedly the biggest surprise: we get the guys’ reaction to this and more…
… ( full article )
Liam Blackburn
Are the Jets now the AFC’s team to beat?
April 16th 2010
It took a while, but this year’s free-agency has thrown up intriguing subplots for the forthcoming NFL season. But presumptive big spenders Washington and Oakland have spent relatively little time in this free agency market this year. Instead, the shockwaves have emanated from the New York Jets. But do these off-season moves make the Jets serious contenders?
… ( full article )
Jamieson, Brophy & Hopkins
McNabb – what does it mean to the East?
April 9th 2010
Shockwaves reverberated around the league when Donovan McNabb was traded to the Redskins, but how does this effect the NFC East? The Diner is fortunate to have both an Eagles and Redskins fan on the team so we went straight to them for views, whilst also seeking the thoughts of the resident Cowboys fan watching on from the NFC East sidelines. Who wins? There’s only one way to find out…fight!
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Rules Changes for 2010
30/3/2010
The rules changes for the 2010 NFL season have been headlined by the proposal to amend overtime for the playoffs but the biggest change by far is the elimination of leaping contact to the head. This is a huge change. For some it is further evidence of the game’s pandering to non-violent political correctness, for others it will safeguard the standard of living in a particularly dangerous work environment. While both views may be correct, it is a change that will radically alter the game as we know it
… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Power Ranking The Decade: The Final Poll
#32-21
20/2/2010
As Tracey Porter ran back that interception and helped seal a victory for the Saints we saw the end of another decade of NFL football. How did your team perform over the course of the past ten years and 160 regular season games? The Diner countdown enables you to look at those details and just for fun, we’ve ranked how we feel each team has performed – power ranking style – over the course of the 00’s. Agree or disagree? You’d best read on first to see where you will stand on that question. Up first, the rubbish that can’t be recycled as we count down 32 to 21
… ( full article )
Rich Lawrence
Tatt’s all folks
10/2/2010
They cost thousands to design, take hours to create, and over countless meetings are finally approved. The Super Bowl logo is a small piece of perfect art that acts as a mental tattoo for the most important day on the NFL calendar. This week however the NFL announced a change to the logo design for all future Super Bowls
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
Super Bowl XLIV Special
4/2/2010
It’s all eyes on Miami this Sunday evening as Dang and Doc focus on this weekend’s Super Bowl match-up between the Saints and the Colts, and ask whether in a game with two high-octane passing offences the running game will play any kind of factor. Consequently, the boys break down the key match-ups that will determine Sunday’s result. And of course, we close out by asking for a prediction both for the game and the MVP award
… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Next stop for Warner is Canton
31/1/2010
On Friday, flanked by his family Kurt Warner announced his retirement from the National Football League, thus ending one of the most tumultuous roller coaster careers anyone has ever had enjoyed in the game
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
30/1/2010
Dang and Doc pick through the remains of the Vikings loss to the Saints and ask if Brett Favre will finally call it a day. Also under the microscope: is Brad Childress what is holding the Vikings back? Elsewhere, there’s no second Wembley game in Britain this coming season; has the International Series ran out of steam? Finally, they look at the ongoing mess around Urban Meyer’s on-off resignation/sabbatical
… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
An Exhibition Turning Into A Farce
27/1/2010
Every time I have gone looking for NFL news this past week it seems I am met with the latest announcement of a change to the Pro Bowl rosters – player “x” is hurt, he is been replaced by player “y”. At this rate, I’ll be getting a call up! The Pro Bowl has become a joke and if it continues in its current format then should be scrapped
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
16/1/2010
Dang and Doc mull over the coaching carousel as it kicks into full swing. Mike Shanahan has finally arrived in Washington, but can he lead them back to glory? More surprisingly, Pete Carroll is the new head in Seattle with Lane Kiffin filling his boots in California, but who has the better future? Elsewhere the annual McNabb bashing has begun, but this time is it the end for him in Philly? Back in the colleges another coach has gone for threatening players, is it time to reassess the pressure put on college athletes?
… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
No Cap Doesn’t Mean No Limits
14/1/2010
Whilst we are still in the midst of an exciting post season with the battle for the Vince Lombardi trophy looking as open and as intriguing as in any year, lots of coaches, owners and front office personnel are already getting ready for the off-season. 2010 looks very likely to see the NFL enter something of an unknown territory for them – an uncapped year – as the owners decided to opt out of the current Collective Bargaining Agreement so as to try to strike a new deal
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
7/1/2010
This week, it’s a double special edition of Four Downs. Not only is it the guys end of regular season review where they cast their mind back over the last four months and look ahead to the next four, but it is also the 100th edition of the Diner’s longest running article! So we’ve allowed them to cast an eye over each other’s views these past four months, and highlight their prophetic ability as well as the things they probably wish they’ve never said
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
24/12/2009
With the festive season now in full swing, Dang and Doc sign off for their Christmas break with a bumper-sized edition of Four Downs. The Cowboys dominated the Saints on Saturday, so are they a force to be reckoned with? In the AFC, the Chargers continue to march on – are the dominant side in the conference? The NFL has finally committed to the study into brain injuries and in the award season our boys dish out their accolades. Finally, they look ahead to 2010 and set out their Christmas wishes for their team and the league
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
8/12/2009
Knowing Me, Knowing You, Ah-ha
Know who you are. For every NFL team this should be a mantra. Not knowing who you are means not playing to your strengths and masking your weaknesses. It can also mean believing the hype and not the reality. The end of the winning streak for the Tennessee Titans was a classic case in point but the defending champion Pittsburgh Steelers also found themselves in the L column in week 13 because they do not know who they are
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
28/11/2009
Is the Division once heralded as the best in the league, really all that good? Elsewhere, Bruce Gradkowski did what Jamarcus Russell would never have been able to do, what does that tell us about how far away the Raiders really are? The reigning champs suffered another loss and continued their embarrassing run on special teams – is this a serious problem with the Steelers. Over in the AFC West, the Chargers are flying – are we finally going to have them live up to their hype?
… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Diary of a Saint
13/11/2009
Life in the Irish American Football League
This season begins a new season and a new diary, so I think it’s time to bring the Diner faithful up to date on what happened in the year in between. Last season had some ups and down, and ended with another playoff appearance. As for the performance of your humble Diner reporter, much the same…some ups and downs, and naturally a list of injuries!
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
31/10/2009
With Dang on holiday Doc is sat all alone talking to himself in a Diner booth. However, through the mediums of Facebook and twitter he has been given a steady set of rapid fire questions to give his views on. For him to chew over is Favre’s return to Green Bay, Miles Austin’s explosion in Dallas, Larry Jonson’s latest escapades, the benching of Shaun Hill and whether New Orleans have now finally proved themselves to the doubters. Plus, on the back of the Wembley game is four international games feasible? In the college ranks, are the officials propping up Florida and Alabama? And will it be Jake Locker who is the first QB taken off the board in April?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
16/10/2009
This week Dang and Doc look at the resurgent Cincinnati Bengals and ask whether it can last? As the bye weeks are now a coming, who needs this weekend off more than the others? In college football, Dez Bryant’s been suspended, possibly over just having lunch, and with the season now in full swing, who has impressed the guys enough to make it to the National Championship?
… ( full article )
Andy Ayrton
The Future’s Bright,
The Future’s Purple
16/10/2009
Brett Favre fan Andy Ayrton analyses the great man’s move to Minnesota and details what we might expect from the Vikings this season:
The past few seasons we have watched him pass Dan Marino’s various passing milestones: completions, yardage, touchdown passes and, yes, George Blanda’s not-so-illustrious interceptions mark.
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
25/9/2009
Choose a booth, order a coffee, grab a bagel and settle in for the latest Four Downs. This week, Dang and Doc debate the 0-2 and the 2-0 teams, and where they might be destined. Elsewhere are the Saints for real and what should the Niners do with Michael Crabtree?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
12/9/2009
This week Dang and Doc discuss Richard Seymour’s trade to the Raiders and how this will play out for Oakland, whether LeGarrette Blount has been harshly treat for his actions last week, whether a franchise in London is realistic and as the new season starts, have UK fans been sold short in their coverage
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
9/9/2009
The long wait nears it’s end, teams prepare for battle, fans cool their beers. The 2009 season is about to kickoff. Join Dang & Doc Tedy in discussing Teddy Bruschi’s retirement, Chan Gailey’s firing in KC, the ongoing mess in Denver and that over-sized scoreboard in Dallas
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
College Preview Edition
3/9/2009
It’s finally here! The 2009 NCAA season kicks off this weekend and in anticipation of four and a half months of ups and downs as the college football season winds itself towards January, Dang and Doc give their predictions for the 2009 campaign
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
NFC South
20/8/2009
Can Jake Delhomme take the Panthers back into the playoffs? Will the Falcons make history and have successive winning seasons? Are the Buccaneers destined for a year of re-building and will the Saints continue to entertain, but without the results? Dang & Doc reveal all to the Diner collective
… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
What’s he got to be depressed about?
10/8/2009
It can be difficult to comprehend what makes some people in the public spotlight, much less NFL players, suffer from depression. They’re playing a wonderful game for millions of dollars. They are admired and loved by the people who would play this game for free. But in the last 12 months we’ve seen depression rear its ugly head in two big name players in the NFL
… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Eli Manning’s New Deal
6/8/2009
So Eli Manning just got paid. $97m over 6 years makes him the NFL’s highest earner based on average salary, he’s not quite in the $100m club, but I’m guessing that’s not eating away at him. But here’s the problem. Eli Manning has in fact been a very average QB since coming into the league. Most people who recognise this will be ripping the Giants for making such a massive investment in a QB who has played at the level Eli has over the last few years. But the Diner isn’t quite so quick to jump all over them
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
AFC West
1/8/2009
With training camps officially underway the AFC previews conclude with the West. Again, the Chargers are favourites, but does the hype justify the reality? Elsewhere, not the dust has settled has Kyle Orton what it takes to inspire the Broncos, are the Raiders or the Chiefs going to pull a surprise and rise above mediocrity. And does all this make the West the worst division in football?
… ( full article )
Khaled Elsayed
Diner’s Diary Definites
28/7/2009
Everyone will be looking forward to games involving their own team, but there’s so much more to the NFL than just following your own team and there are some intriguing match ups that every NFL fan should be looking forward to
… ( full article )
Khaled Elsayed
Forgetting Philadelphia
22/7/2009
If ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ has taught us anything it’s that sometimes the grass isn’t always greener on the other side, and that when you’re not wanted it’s not always a bad thing. Maybe someone should send Donovan McNabb a copy. Despite being one of the best quarterbacks of the 21st century Donovan McNabb has never truly been embraced by a fan base who have been so quick when it comes to raining down the boos on the man chosen to be their franchise Quarterback with the 2nd pick of the 1999 draft
… ( full article )
Khaled Elsayed
A Cinderella Story
10/7/2009
It’s amazing how different things could be if back in 2005 Matt Leinart had declared for the draft. He was the most highly touted prospect, and would in all likelihood have been the obvious choice for the 49ers in what was, looking back at it, a lacklustre top of the draft. A combination of excellent intangibles, accuracy and field vision to go with a strong enough arm meant this was the kind of solid and dependable guy that could easily adapt to being a franchise quarterback in the NFL
… ( full article )
Khaled Elsayed
Where’s My Promotion?
16/6/2009
You know you’ve done a decent job. You know you’ve earned an opportunity. But yet time and time again your manager passes you over for promotion.
Your abilities, he doesn’t recognise. Your potential, it means nothing to him. Instead of promoting from within he goes out and finds mediocre candidates. And when that doesn’t work he goes and finds a guy with a great CV, but whose best years the industry recognizes as well behind him
… ( full article )
Rob Staton
NFC West 2009, deja vu?
9/6/2009
The Arizona Cardinals will begin favorites as defending champions Super Bowl XLIII runners-up. However, there’s cause for optimism amongst the other three teams hoping to hit back from a disappointing 2008. Is it possible we could see a three way battle for division title? We may have seen it before in the AFC East
… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
23/5/2009
Stock & Doc make their weekly call into the Diner and react to the new MNF crew, what would be the best chance for Michael Vick to get back into the NFL, is the NFL becoming too global in its perspective and consider if Steve Spurrier is right and Urban Meier should think about leaving the Swamp and the Gators behind… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
1/5/2009
First Round, Super Bowl Bound
No fewer than 22 QBs have been taken at the No 1 spot. The last time anyone other than the Manning brothers parlayed a first overall selection into a Super Bowl ring for their drafting team was Troy Aikman, selected first by Dallas in 1989. It might seem that the once a decade Super Bowl success of a QB taken right at the top is a poor return, but it is actually exceptional. The last player other than a QB to win a Super Bowl with the team that picked him first overall was Defensive End Ed “Too Tall” Jones
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Free Agents By Force
21/4/2009
There hasn’t been a pre-draft period like it. The collection of highly prized players who have forced a move to a new team early 2009 is unprecedented. High profile free agents have been joined by franchise favourites in the list of players with new teams. Not everyone who wanted a move has achieved it but before the draft has yet happened, but in a typically quiet time in the NFL calendar the star players successfully forcing a trade is a new phenomenon
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Rules Of Engagement
26/3/2009
In a plush hotel in [somewhere] team owners are plotting out some changes to the game. The rules changes might not seem like much but they are worth knowing and they do have implications for how the game will evolve in future years. The headline rule that is not up for discussion is overtime. Other high priority issues such as extending the regular season and the crucial upcoming discussions with the Players Association will be mentioned but this is not the time for decision on those. Instead there are a series of potential on-field modifications that could emerge for the 2009 season
… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
13/3/2009
Stock and Doc thank the Lord for the Dallas Cowboys soap opera this week as the releasing of Terrell Owens provided the duo with much to mull over. His subsequent arrival in Buffalo merely added to the consternation. Elsewhere, in Denver the drama is just as high. Meanwhile, it’s getting near draft time and with more NFL teams evolving towards 3-4 schemes, the guys look at the best prospect for teams running this system, as well as the usual marquee position of cornerback… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
28/2/2009
With the combine fresh in the memory Stock and Doc run the rule over the big stories coming out of Indianapolis including the antics of Andre Smith, the stock of Wake Forest’s Aaron Curry and just who were the big winners and losers of the weekend. In the NFL, the question for the Carolina Panthers is what do they do with Julius Peppers?… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Brett Favre: Eulogy
15/2/2009
Having announced that he was leaving after a single year with the New York Jets, the all-time passing leader holds a special place in the hearts of many. As a three-time NFL Most Valuable Player, Favre was once one of the most feared players in the game but like pretty much everyone except Jim Brown he could not let go
… ( full article )
Neil Murphy
2008 1st Round Review
15/2/2009
Last year’s draft produced a number of instant stars, most notably two rookie QB’s who lead their teams to the playoffs. One of the trends of the first round was teams focusing on the lines – eight offensive linemen and six defensive linemen were chosen. Obviously the real winners and losers of this draft won’t become clear for a few years yet, so with that in mind let’s pronounce ruthless and arbitrary judgement on it
… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell
Free Agency Scalps: Ray Lewis
10/2/2009
Over the last decade and a half Ray Lewis has become synonymous with the Baltimore Ravens and their stifling defence. He is their centre piece and he has become one of the greatest defenders in NFL history. It seems apparent howewver that Lewis and his representatives see his value as being much higher than does Ozzie Newsome and his colleagues in the Ravens front office… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
Super Bowl Special
29/1/2009
Stock and Doc focus on Sunday’s big match-up between the Steelers and the Cardinals, looking at whether Whisenhunt’s background with Big Ben is an advantage, how on earth the Steelers stop the incredible Larry Fitzgerald, can the Cards run against the Steelers and the guys close out by making their prediction for the big game… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
The Keys to Super Bowl XLIII
29/1/2009
While everyone is trying to find ways to write off Arizona and declare the Pittsburgh Steelers as the champions, when you break down this matchup, it actually sits fairly nicely for the Cardinals. Top Fives this week breaks down the key Super Bowl XLIII matchups and explains why Arizona not only have a chance to win it all, but are actually in a great position to become champions… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Welcome To The Party
20/1/2009
Momentum is the complicated force apparently responsible for success in the NFL at this time of year. With high seeded teams bounced out of the playoffs early, momentum is the rallying cry of victorious teams. It is not that simple… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
By The Time I Get To Arizona
13/1/2009
Momentum is the complicated force apparently responsible for success in the NFL at this time of year. With high seeded teams bounced out of the playoffs early, momentum is the rallying cry of victorious teams. It is not that simple… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Change for the better?
8/1/2009
As eight teams fight it out for a place in the Superbowl, others are working hard behind the scenes with the aim of being amongst the league’s elite next year. Coaches are being poached, recycled and fired all around the league as franchises scramble to interview candidates and shape their staff… ( full article )
Best Games of 08
The FD Top 5
4/1/2009
That didn’t half go by fast! It just seems like last week that Washington didn’t have a two minute offense in the Meadowlands and Tom Brady was getting injured against the Chiefs. But before the playoffs overtake us all it’s time to take a look back at what makes the NFL regular season one of the most compelling in sports… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Christmas Gifts
The FD Top 5
24/12/2008
It’s Santa time again and as always there are players, coaches and owners who won’t enjoy a very Merry Christmas this year. Whether your team is winless, or just simply under performing, it can be a tough life in the NFL when things aren’t going to plan… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Mouthwatering Matchups
The FD Top 5
17/12/2008
With just two weeks of the NFL regular season remaining, and some mouthwatering clashes to look forward to to decide playoff positions and home field advantage, the schedule makers really hit the jackpot this year. This week on Top Fives, we highlight the most mouthwatering games of the last two weeks, and how it will shape the playoff picture… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
6/12/2008
The dynamic duo take another step in the Diner’s booth and discuss whether the Lions should still be a part of Thanksgiving, if the Chargers should have kept Michael Turner, does New England ‘at’ Tampa Bay Buccaneers prove that the International Series is continuing to be taken seriously by the NFL, and if Utah deserves to be in the National Championship game… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
22/11/2008
This week Stock and Doc look ahead and ponder the Cardinals future now the NFC West looks sewn up, whether the NFL needs to scrap the idea of overtime, whether the Panthers are a credible threat at 8-2 and finish up by looking ahead to the big college showdown in Norman on Saturday night… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
14/11/2008
With Week 11 around the corner Stock and Doc consider who to look out for in the second half of the season, whether the East is the best division in the AFC, should the overtime rules in the pro’s be changed, and who is the best one-loss team in college football… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
6/11/2008
Now that every team has played half their schedule, Stock, Doc and Jiz look back on the first half of the NFL season, casting their keen eye over the best, the worst and the letdowns in 2008… ( full article )
Peter Cowan
End of a Dynasty?
25/10/2008
the Patriots are sitting 4-2 with their best player out suffering schizophrenic form. Are the real Patriots the juggernaut that flattened the Broncos on Monday night, or the team that flat ran out of gas against the Chargers the week before?… ( complete preview )
Paul Hopkins
London or Bust?
23/10/2008
It worked for the Boston Celtics and somehow, it also worked for the New York Giants.
When this year’s International Series match at Wembley was announced as being between the New Orleans Saints and the San Diego Chargers, the buzz of anticipation and expectancy of the game itself was high. Very high and rightly so… ( complete preview )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
17/10/2008
Can it really be so? The Giants are early season favourites by default, Tony Romo’s injury will be good for Dallas in the long run, Colt McCoy has the Heisman wrapped up and college football’s constant tinkering of the ranking system is good for the sport. Doc & Stock declare which is fact, and which is fiction… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
10/10/2008
On the menu in this edition: Stock and Doc ask if the Redskins are the best team in the NFC, whether after firing their coaches during their bye week Oakland or Detroit are in a bigger hole. Plus are the days of a single tailback gone for good? And in the NCAA is the Big XII now the conference to beat?… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Texas v Oklahoma
The Biggest Rivalry in College Football
8/10/2008
Both teams arrive with a top five ranking, undefeated records and after very impressive starts to the season and are eyeing up potential Big XII Championships and the big one – the National Championship. This figures to make Saturday’s Red River Shootout the most important for years… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Weird and Wonderful aka The Return of the Trick Play
27/9/2008
All of a sudden you see the oppositions QB heading over to the WR spot. You look around at your teammates who are all hastily trying to figure out what the heck is going on. You haven’t seen this kind of wildcat lineup since college… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Biggest Disasters of 2008
The FD Top 5
25/9/2008
“It would be funny if it wasn’t true.” This week
on Top Fives we get a look at 5 of the biggest disasters of the NFL season thus far. You would laugh, but sometimes it’s cruel to mock the afflicted… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Great Expectations
17/9/2008
San Diego, Minnesota, Seattle, Jacksonville, Cleveland. This quintet were all touted for big things. Playoffs? Absolutely. Division titles? Probably. Super Bowl? Quite possibly. Yet after two weeks of the 2008 season all five are looking for answers as to why they are currently winless… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Week 1 Rookie Performers
The FD Top 5
11/9/2008
The first week of the NFL season is always an exciting time as a fan. The excitement for those making their very first appearance must be matched by the nerves. The class of 2008 made a real impression on the NFL in Week 1, and in the return of Top Fives, we’ll look at 5 of my favourite rookie performances from the weekend… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
9/9/2008
Welcome Diner faithful to the world of post-season football, where the scores can really change. This is the big dance. The time for saving a little in reserve is over, this is the time where every game could be your last, and every win gets you one game closer to the prize… ( full article )
Rob Staton
What We Learnt From Pre-Season
3/9/2008
Career threatening injuries, quarter back controversies and players’ dreams being crushed in the roster cuts. There’s probably just as much drama in four weeks of pre-season games than there is in the 16 game regular season. Amongst the wreckage we have a look at the teams who benefited the most from the annual NFL curtain raiser, and who wishes they could have a little more time to prepare… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
It’s Football Time
3/9/2008
No more will we have to convince ourselves that the pre-season is must see exciting viewing. No longer will we have to question our sanity as we try to put together our respective teams final 53 man roster. Not for a long time will we play Madden so much that we forget what real football is actually like… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Derrick Harvey finally signs. What impact will he have? Who cares?
28/8/2008
The final piece to the puzzle that’s plagued the Jags for a few years has finally signed. Derrick Harvey, after missing all of training camp, and at least the first three pre-season games, is now under contract. The puzzle? How do the Jags beat the Colts and the Patriots when it really matters?… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
16/8/2008
On the menu: the guys look at the QB fallout from the Brett Favre trade, whether Steve Jackson is worth the dollars he is seeking from the Rams, and look at the NFC South, and consider whether there is only one team from the division heading to the post-season… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Making An Exhibition
4/8/2008
The Hall of Fame game has come and gone, and we’ve finally seen our first football from the rosters of 2008. We’re giddy about it as we are every year, the offseason is finally at an end and the long wait is finally over. Or is it? The football void is about to be filled, but are the preseason battles enough to quench our thirsts?… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Adam’s Football Trip
26/7/2008
Adam Goldstein is about to live out every NFL fan’s dream. Whilst some of us plan trips to the US to catch our favourite team, or even a little blitz on the home of football, taking in as many games as we can over a 2 week span, Adam is going to take in 35 games this season, one at each team’s home stadium, as well as the London and Toronto games… ( full article )
Alistair Mclean
Does The 2008 Schedule Already Tell Us Who We’ll Be Watching In January?
25/7/2008
Last year six of the dozen playoff teams had a record of 10-6 or 9-7. In 2006 an 8-8 team made the NFC’s sixth seed, in addition to the six 10-6 or 9-7 teams that again made the playoffs. We can see that looking back at the standings for those two years that 18 teams finished within two games of an 8-8 season. This does seem to back up what so many NFL observers seem to like to point out, we are in “an era of parity”… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
17/7/2008
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
In the latest edition of Four Downs the guys look at the only story in town – the Brett Favre soap opera. However, they still find time to continue their look ahead to 2008 with a look at the AFC South… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
2/7/2008
This week the guys look at the issue of a rookie salary cap, whether the Bills will end up migrating to Toronto, what the Raiders have in store and begin their countdown to the new season through looking at each division in turn. This week – the AFC East…. ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Comedy NFL Style
28/6/2008
I think the recently departed George Carlin said it best when he pointed out that “Baseball is played in the spring; the season of new life. Football is played in the fall when EVERYTHING IS DYING”… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
26/6/2008
This week, the guys consider where Jason Taylor’s attitude will get him, how Jim Brown would fare in today’s NFL, whether brains and intelligence are really needed for football and what should the eligibility criteria for the Hall of Fame be… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
21/6/2008
This week, the guys look at Michael Strahan’s career, the development of Leinart and Young, how to best use Reggie Bush and in light of ongoing contract requests and various shenanigans, and consider the merits of Drew Rosenhaus… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
12/6/2008
This week the guys consider the implications of Nick Kaczur’s painkiller use, whether T.O. can go on and on … playing, continue their Benson-arrest watch and ask whether it is ever worth looking past character issues in pursuit of great talent… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
5/6/2008
This week, up for consideration is Detroit’s status at the bottom of the NFL rankings, Jake Long’s prospects in Miami, what will become of Cedric Benson, and will Los Angeles ever get back on the NFL map… and do they deserve to?… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Power Ranking The Decade
The Top Ten # 10-1
30/5/2008
So here it is, after much thought and consideration, the Diner presents it’s orderly list of the top ten teams of the decade thus far. How has your team done, and is there still time with two years to go for them to make a move on that top slot?… ( full article )
Sam Monson
American Football vs. Rugby: Which is Rougher?
28/5/2008
It’s the age old argument over this side of the pond, which sport is tougher, more violent, harder to physically endure? The Diner has an answer, and it’s not close… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
The Dangers of Madden
22/5/2008
I had a strange experience once, which occurred whilst watching the opening game of the 2006 season. It was a while ago I grant you, but the memory of it is still clear to this day. Perhaps it was the way Dante Culpepper seemed to be struggling with his movement or the way he unleashed the pigskin harmlessly towards the sidelines the moment a defender came near him… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
The FD Big Top 5
A Look Into The Crystal Ball
21/5/2008
It doesn’t matter if you follow the hapless, the hopeless, the hopeful or the wonderful. Everyone is feeling that optimism, however slight it may be in some cases, that 2008 may bring better days. As we look forward I thought it may be time to make some early predictions for the year ahead… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
15/5/2008
Confirmed this week: Bench-clearing brawl in Baltimore is good news. Alex Smith will not be the starting QB in SF. Lovie Smith’s gamble on Grossman & Orton costs him his job and Calvin Johnson is one of the best in the NFL. That’s right, yeah?… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Teams Eyeing 2009?
12/5/2008
There were teams that were unusually quiet this off-season. Expected to be clamouring for the top free agents, some teams instead sat back and did very little. It’s widely accepted that this was not a strong free agent crop of players, these teams might have taken a look at who might be available in 2009… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
10/5/2008
Jared Allen takes Minnesota into the post season, Shaun Alexander retires, the NCAA remains out of touch and Ryan Perriloux’s ousting kills LSU. That’s what 2008 holds. Right?… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Welcome To The Beginning
7/5/2008
After years of training and dedication, some players have been marked out as stars and will be starting for their new NFL team. For most of this year’s draft the hard graft starts here. Very few will be starters. Not all will make it onto rosters. Some will be out of the game before their first season ever begins… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Bill Cowher – One Town Man?
2/5/2008
In the chair for this weeks Therapy session is a man who left the Pittsburgh Steelers, the only team he has ever coached, a year after finally leading them to the Superbowl on the back of one of the most remarkable runs in living memory. He is of course, Bill Cowher… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
The Good Enough Club
30/4/2008
Teams use the draft for a variety of reasons and many of those reasons are about winning now. Adding a player to the ranks who fills an immediate need but also makes the team a greater threat is the typical expectation of a top draft pick. This year’s top picks all fit that mould… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Draft Day Winners and Losers
28/4/2008
I was somewhere near London in the middle of the night, when the stats began to take hold. Suddenly the air was filled with what looked like huge boards. They were all flashing and firing out forty times and other combine figures. I remember hearing someone say. “Holy flying iguanas! Who are these sixth round players?”… ( full article )
Rob Staton
MVP to Bargain Bin
23/4/2008
Just two years removed from helping the Seahawks reach the Super Bowl and in the process claim the NFL MVP for 2005, the future is looking bleak for Alexander as he faces the very real prospect of the beginning of the end… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
17/4/2008
Miami are making a mistake if they are considering Jake Long, Aqib Talib’s ‘character issues’ and his skipping of a workout in Dallas are being overblown, Malcolm Kelly is right to criticise the Oklahoma Sooners, and Branden Albert’s stock in this year’s draft is rising far too high. Discuss… ( full article )
Rob Staton
With The 1st Overall Pick The Miami Dolphins Select… Nobody
13/4/2008
They’ve passed on their pick and hand the baton on to St. Louis at Number Two. Miami can re-enter the draft at any point to announce who they want to select, essentially dropping down the board and avoiding having to pay the big money… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
7/4/2008
Wembley is not the best place to hold an NFL game in the UK, Pac Man Jones would be a great fit for Dallas, the new rule about the length of player’s hair below the helmet is absurd, and Al Davis will be the man to draft Darren McFadden; or so you might think… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
NFL Rules OK!
3/4/2008
The NFL’s competition committee are [currently sitting] to determine rules changes for the upcoming season. Each year this committee determines new ways to improve the way the game flows and has generated significant breakthroughs such as ensuring the correct coloured wristband and less worthy causes such as banning the horse collar tackle… ( full article )
Rob Staton
The $42 Million Bargain
1/4/2008
When Lofa Tatupu signed a new eight year contract last week he signalled his intentions to remain at the Seattle Seahawks for his entire career. Much was made of the former USC Trojan’s loyalty in signing a supposed ‘discount’ $42 million deal… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
28/3/2008
The Raiders have made a great move by acquiring DeAngelo Hall, DJ Hackett and Muhsin Muhammad will make the Panthers a strong contender, Seattle’s running game will be much improved this season with the addition of Julius Jones and TJ Duckett, and Chris Long is the best player in Draft! Right?… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Monday Night Jihad – We Need a Kicker!
24/3/2008
Finding the man to nail a 50 yarder in the snow of December can be a thankless task. Some teams strike lucky; take the Broncos for example drafting Jason Elam in the 3rd round of the 1993 draft. Fifteen years later he has two Super Bowl rings and shares an NFL record for the longest kick in history (63 yards)… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Quarterbacks That Don’t Come Up In Conversation
18/3/2008
NFL quarterbacks are possibly the most talked about element of the game and the source of many a heated debate. It’s the age-old question – who’s the best? Is it Tom Brady? Peyton Manning? Gus Frerotte? (Ok, not Gus Frerotte.)… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Trust in Troy
15/3/2008
The Ravens hold the 8th pick in the 2008 NFL draft. Whilst many experts predict the front office will think long and hard about using that pick on a QB, they could throw their trust into former Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith… ( full article )
Rob Staton
The ‘Qwest’ To See Favre
11/3/2008
In seven days time the Hawks were entertaining the Green Bay Packers in what was being billed as one of the last opportunities to see the legendary Brett Favre live in the flesh. I knew I had to be at that game… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
The High Risk – High Reward NFL
5/3/2008
Contracts negotiated during free agency have been enormous. Ben Roethlisberger’s $102 million contract to commit himself fully to the Pittsburgh Steelers grabs headlines and attention as a huge figure that would set anyone up for life… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs with Stock & Doc
Chris Brophy
Marquee 2008 Free Agents Pt.2
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs with Stock & Doc
Rob Staton
Lawrence Tynes: Carry on Kicking
Rob Staton
The Diner Division Focus: AFC North
CJ Sanchez
Pain of Picking a Jersey
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Near Perfection, As Close As It May Get
Keith Bowden
The End of a Dream
Rob Staton
Drafting Smart: The Secret Behind The Giants Success
Michael E Lawrence
Super Bowl XLII: Polling the Pundits and Players
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs with Stock & Doc
Super Bowl XLII Special
Rob Staton
Coughlin To Enjoy The Sun, Bootgate and More
CJ Sanchez
Are The New York Giants ‘Britain’s Team’?
CJ Sanchez
Conversations With God
Mark Lyne-Austen
Sub-Plots of the 2007 NFL Season
Rob Staton
Home and Away in the NFC
Chris Brophy
The FD All-Deserving Team
Michael E Lawrence
Neil Reynold’s NFLUK and Sky TV Diary
Chris Brophy
A Short Career Full Of Good Memories: Sean Taylor
Chris Brophy
The Wide Open MVP Award Race
Michael E Lawrence
Just extrapolate baby!
Sam Monson
Midseason All XI
Sam Monson
Adrian Peterson Rookie Of The Year
Keith Bowden
A Look Back at Wembley
Michael E Lawrence
Armageddon Time
Michael E Lawrence
Fish Fans Out Of Water
Keith Bowden
The Ongoing Trials – SF Trip
Michael E Lawrence
A Super Bowl in October
Chris Brophy
Giant(s) Turnaround
Sam Monson
QB Woes in Minnesota?
Chris Brophy
Football, Lies and Videotape
Michael E Lawrence
Reggie Bush: Bust
Chris Brophy
The Sudden Death Debate
Michael E Lawrence
O Brother Where Art Thou? Uh, on IR
Keith Bowden
The Ongoing Trials 02/09/07
Michael E Lawrence
Skill Position Special: Set to Bust Out
Chris Brophy
I Remember You
Michael E Lawrence
Draft Roundup: sound bites from day 1
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Ian Aberdein
Public Enemy No. 90?
Feature Article
March 13th 2013
The Bogeyman. Boo Radley. Ndamukong Suh. Two of those characters are fictional, preying on the fears and over-active imaginations of children, scaring them into good behaviour, paralysing them with fear when they overstep the marks set by well intentioned parents. The third character? He’s real, and according to some, a very genuine bad guy… ( full article )
Graeme Young
MVP Contenders
Midseason analysis
November 10th 2012
Every NFL player has had at least eight NFL games under their belt, so what better time to take a look at some of the outstanding performers who may well be crowned the NFL MVP when the regular season finishes. This year is far more open than 2011 and there is a feeling that a few defensive standouts are in the reckoning as well… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Peyton’s Place
Feature
February 9th 2012
Superbowl week was hijacked by a side-show taking place in Indianapolis. Namely, the start of formal divorce proceedings between Colts owner Jim Irsay and their stalwart Quarterback Peyton Manning.
It was sad that in the week of the biggest game of the year, that a sub-plot became the story of the week. But it showed just how big Manning is. Four-time League MVP, a Superbowl winner, one of the very best to ever play the game… ( full article )
Alistair Houghton
There’s no place like home – unless you’re the Philadelphia Eagles
Feature Article
January 10th 2012
Boos were ringing out, fans were disgusted and a chant of “FIRE ANDY” circled around Lincoln Financial Field. It wasn’t supposed to be like this.
The blowout win for the New England Patriots in Philadelphia in November highlighted a statistic that seemed to stun everyone. The Eagles were now 1-5 at home that season. As it happens they won their last two games to finish 3-5, but the mediocrity at home isn’t anything new… ( full article )
Andy Ayrton
The Curse of Bobby Layne?
Feature
October 2nd 2011
September 25th 2011. Minnesota 20, Detroit 0. Half time. The Detroit Lions were, as usual, getting another beating. One of the NFL`s oldest franchises – founded in 1934 – the Lions had been the league’s whipping boys for nearly three generations. Apart from three division titles won in the eighties and early nineties, the Lions have won nothing but wooden spoons since they roared over the NFL in the fifties… ( full article )
Mike Carlson
Lonely Death of John Mackey
Mackey’s legacy
August 12th 2011
The sad passing of John Mackey at age 69 attracted a lot of attention, but not nearly as much as it deserved. Mike Carlson looks at his legacy… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Draft Fallout
Four Downs
May 10th 2011
The Diner’s Draft daft duo chew the fat and discuss the highs and lows of this years crop of young talent. Dang and Doc reveal the winners and losers of 2011… ( full article )
Paul Emery
Nick Saban Seal of Approval
NFL Draft 2011
March 28th 2011
With an NFL background evident on both sides of the ball coupled with the way he pushes his players, NFL GMs are said to be very comfortable drafting Nick Saban’s Crimson Tide prospects. But is this actually the way forward?… ( full article )
Micheal Kavanagh and Paul Hopkins
Grin and Bear it
Four Downs
January 28th 2011
Mike and Doc chew over the fallout of the Conference Championship games, which is all about Jay Cutler. Does he deserve the criticism that came his way during and after the game?… ( full article )
Dan Ericsson
The Best of 2010
NFL & Fantasy Awards
January 11th 2010
2010 was nothing if not completely unpredictable, always exciting to watch and the only thing you knew was that just about anything could happen. Dan Ericsson looks back and hands out some personal awards. Drum roll please… ( full article )
Liam Blackburn
Derek Anderson wins some silverware
Alternative End of Season Awards
January 6th 2011
It’s that time of year again to reward the good, the bad, but mainly the ugly moments of 2010. So don’t despair Redskins, Cardinals and Lions fans, you may have had little to cheer about on the football field, but your guys clean up here… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Happy Christmas!
What’s in your stocking?
December 25th 2010
It’s Christmas time and whilst goodwill to all men might not be high on the agenda for many franchises for the next two weeks (after all, 20 teams can still make the playoffs statistically speaking) the Diner has been thinking about Christmas lists for franchises, coaches and players around the NFL… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Ready to rumble
Four Downs
December 2nd 2010
Andre Johnson surprised the world by breaking his usual calm and reacting to Courtland Finnegan’s play with his fists. Was the NFL right to hand out fines instead of an expected one game ban? Dang & Doc hammer out the issues of the week… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
What now?
Four Downs with Dang & Doc
November 12th 2010
The Tennessee Titans were the only team put in a claim for troublesome WR Randy Moss and hope he will be able to take the up slack left by the injured Kenny Britt. What can be expected in the next chapter of the leagues biggest saga? The jury is out.
Stock and Doc hammer out the most pressing issues of the week in another packed episode of Four Downs… ( full article )
Sam Monson
It’s time to pull the plug
October 26th
Brett Favre is the league ironman. The guy’s played in like 1,000 straight games. He has played through a litany of injuries, the death of his father and his wife’s struggles with breast cancer. You just can’t stop the guy suiting up on gameday. Unless you bench him. The Vikings might have to do that very unthinkable thing if they want to save their season… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
October 9th 2010
This week, following the drama in Philly on Sunday Dang and Doc mull over where this leaves the Eagles and what they really should have done over recent months. Elsewhere, the two representatives in last year’s Super Bowl continue to underwhelm; what’s up with the Saints and Colts? And three legendary players reached major milestones on Sunday, but how do their careers compare? And after trouncing Stanford on Saturday night, the Ducks have jumped Boise State in the BCS standings; is this fair?… ( full article )
Brian Davis and Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
October 2nd 2010
This week Dang and Doc go back to the topic of Albert Haynesworth: after his latest tirade against the Redskins should they get rid by any means necessary and move on? Jimmy Raye has paid the price for ineptitude in San Francisco, but which coach is next in line for the chop? The practice of icing the kicker is now an accepted part of the game, but does it actually work? And this Sunday, Donovan McNabb makes his first return to Philly as a Redskin; what do our duo see happening when he goes back to his old stomping ground?… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Whatever happened to… the 2005 USC Trojans?
September 18th 2010
In the second of my pieces looking at the 2005 National Championship game between USC and Texas, I’ve cast my eyes down the roster that Pete Carroll led into that game. While the view on the Longhorns was that perhaps every one of them has there or thereabouts achieved what was realistically expected of them, the Trojans can’t make the same claim, such is the level of attention the two marquee players – Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush – attracted since entering the league
… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Time to lean on Peterson
September 14th 2010
The Vikings tempted Favre out of retirement…again, before the 2009 season, and we all know how that ended. It was seen as a great move. Now though things aren’t quite the same
… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Offense must carry Defense in Baltimore
August 23rd 2010
The Baltimore Ravens have long been known for a suffocating D. The problem for Baltimore has always been that their D has had to be so good because the offense was so bad. Ray Lewis has had to marshall his troops to restrict teams to as few points as possible, because Baltimore have never had an offense capable of winning games on its own. This year that isn’t the case
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs with Dang & Doc
May 8th 2010
Should Dolphin GM Jeff Ireland face the music? Will JaMarcus Russell find another team? Where will T.O. land? Who will be rook of the year? Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins reveal all in this weeks Four Downs
… ( full article )
Michael E Lawrence
Draft day trade targets
April 16th 2010
It’s been an off-season of big name trades, but are more moves on the way in next week’s draft? Troubled stars like Big Ben, Marshawn Lynch and Ronnie Brown are keeping a close eye… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Have the Steelers lost their mind?
April 12th 2010
In a move that has to be one of the most staggering moves in recent NFL times, late on Sunday night the Pittsburgh Steelers traded their top wide receiver to the New York Jets for a fifth round draft pick. That’s right. The Steelers accepted a pick right at the end of the fifth round for Santonio Holmes, who only a few short years ago was the a first round selection in the Draft.
That’s Santonio Holmes who was just coming off his best season. That’s Santonio Holmes, Superbowl MVP
… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
McNabb Trade Breakdown
6/4/2010
On Sunday night NFC East rivals Philadelphia and Washington completed a stunning trade with the Eagles sending Donovan McNabb to the Redskins for a 2010 second round pick and a conditional pick in 2011. Shockwaves reverberated around the league when the trade was announced, and now it is time to dissect who got the better end of the deal. Being an Eagles fan I obviously have a vested interest in this one, but I’m here to break down the trade in a fair and impartial way
… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Would a Bills-Tebow marriage live happily ever after?
30/3/2010
It looks as though the Buffalo Bills are the first team to show their hand and declare their undying eternal love for Tim Tebow, the most hyped college athlete since … well … ever really.
If, as expected the two top talents in the quarterback pool – namely Sam Bradford (who it seems is now locked to the St Louis Rams) and Jimmy Clausen (who might find himself in Washington, Oakland or somewhere indiscriminate after a big trade) are gone by the time the Bills’ time starts, they’re going to be left looking at the remaining quarterbacks, such as Tebow, Colt McCoy and Dan LeFevour
… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Power Ranking The Decade: The Final Poll
#20-11
25/2/2010
Continuing our ranking of all 32 teams over the course of the past ten years we now look at the middle of the pack, we’ve ranked how we feel each team has performed – power ranking style – over the course of the 00’s. Sure, they could have been worse but then again, they could have been a lot better. If it were an end of term report it would be written: could do better
… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Football Diner Awards 2010
15/2/2010
The 2009 National Football League Season is in the history book and it’s time to celebrateing mainly the best, but also a brief mention of the worst, from the season just gone. A quick poll of the Diner writers has produced the Football Diner Awards for the 2009-10 NFL Season
… ( full article )
Liam Blackburn
Tim Tebow – The Enigma
6/2/2010
The biggest prize in the game has yet to be awarded and the draft is still just under three months away, but it’s already started. Ladies and gentlemen, Tim Tebow is coming to the NFL and the hype-machine is in overdrive. The three time Heisman trophy finalist and one of the best college players in history is about to make the step up
… ( full article )
Brian Davis
Kicking Up A Fuss
6/2/2010
Brian Davis casts his statistical eye back over the last decade to see how the art of kicking has changed. Are today’s magic feet a step up over their predecessors or should we be dialing up Scott Norwood’s number after all? All is revealed in our analysis special
… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Brett Favre: Gunslinger
27/1/2010
Brett Favre is a gunslinger. He’s just having fun out there. Brett just loves to play football. You’ve gotta take the picks with the touchdowns. We all know the clichés that surround Brett Favre, and like most clichés, they’re so because they’re all true. Favre loves football, and Favre throws a lot of picks. He’s made more bonehead decisions over his career than any QB to ever play the game. I know this because any other QB that’s come close to as many has been dumped from the league swiftly. Favre is the only guy who had enough talent and brought enough amazingly good plays to make it worth living with
… ( full article )
Liam Blackburn
Second’s Out
27/1/2010
Amid the two fantastic games we saw this weekend came the news that these isles would not be enjoying a second NFL regular season game next year. There’s not been a great deal of surprise from the fans over here; the response has been one of concern. The reasoning behind the move remains relatively unclear and the notion should never have been considered if it wasn’t fully supported
… ( full article )
Liam Blackburn
The End of the Line?
21/1/2010
As the post-season hurtles towards its conclusion, it is time for players, coaches and staff alike to look forward to the next season. When the Super Bowl fireworks are nothing more than smoke, everyone’s attention will turn to the draft and the next generation of NFL stars. But for some, 2009 will be the end. Retirement happens to every player at some point, the question is not if but when. So when is the right time to hang up the boots?
… ( full article )
Liam Blackburn
Alternative End of Season Awards
14/1/2010
With week 17 finished, another regular season has been consigned to the history books. Already the franchises are focused on next year but we couldn’t let them go without reflecting on another crazy season in the NFL. Various accolades and awards were handed out to the league’s rookies and comeback stars alike this week, but these awards take a look at the unsung heroes. The men who provided us with all the drama, despair and comedy that defined this year
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
6/1/2010
 New Look, Same Results
Momentum or health? Great offense or tight defense? Inspirational leaders or team unity? Some of these questions matter to the top NFL sides right now as they head into the playoff race but most should be thinking about what is it they now do differently. For all the discussion of nebulous theories around sharpness and rest or about the psychology of victory, recent NFL history tells us that it is doing something differently that can now make a breakthrough difference
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
18/12/2009
This week Dang and Doc look at the meltdown in Pittsburgh, as well as debate whether something similar is possible in New England. At the other end of the spectrum, the Colts remain perfect. But what do they do with Peyton between now and January. And Chris Johnson is accelerating towards a record; can he do it?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
3/12/2009
The Diner Four Downs duo mull over the resurgent Tennessee Titans and ponder whether they’re heading for the playoffs. Meanwhile, Hines Ward appeared to call out his QB for missing out a game with a concussion. Given the current scrutiny the NFL is under for its head injuries, was he right to do so? In the college world, Charlie Weis has gone – does everyone just expect too much from Notre Dame? And, with the super-heavyweight knockout title match this Saturday, who’s going to win – Florida or Alabama?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
21/11/2009
Dang and Doc mull over the weekend gone in the NFL and question whether it’s a foregone conclusion that an AFC team will come out on top. Elsewhere, the game of the year arguably took place late Sunday. But who cost the Pats that game? The officials or Bill Belichick? In the college ranks, are we under-rating what Ohio State continue to achieve, and conversely have USC come back down to earth into the ranks of the also-rans?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
7/11/2009
This week Dang and Doc look ahead to the marquee match-up at the top of the NFC East and give their predictions. Plus, now we are at the half-way point in the season, which team, having started brightly in going to fade into obscurity and which team is looking like emerging from the pack to charge into contention? And after giving USC their biggest beat down in many a year, has Chip Kelly performed the best job in the college ranks this year?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
24/10/2009
It’s International Series week and Dang and Doc look ahead to the weekend’s Wembley game, and frankly fear the worst for the Buccaneers. Elsewhere, with the plethora of really bad NFL teams, who is going to end up bottom of the pile in January? Over in the NCAA, Sam Bradford’s injured again – is it time for him to put himself first? And the BCS rankings are out and already courting controversy. Of the two #1 sides out there, who is the best?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
8/10/2009
Week 4 is in the can and two familiar names grab all the headlines. Is Peyton the best ever? And can this version of Brett Favre last the whole season? Elsewhere, Denver rolls on and remains undefeated, but are they for real? And the boys evaluate the coaches who aren’t performing, which leads to an all too familiar rant from one of the guys…and the guys cover the wide-receiver merry-go-round that broke late this week
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
3/10/2009
This week it’s all about the losing in Four Downs as Dang and Doc dissect the latest NCAA and NFL goings on. With injury ruling out Chad Pennington for the rest of the season as the Dolphins crashed to 0-3 have we seen the last of him? Elsewhere its worse for Eric Mangini, who is having a disaster in Cleveland. Has he already bombed himself out of work? The Raiders continue to lose and questions persist over JaMarcus Russell. Did they make a mistake in letting Jeff Garcia walk? Finally, another week brings more teams dropping from the ranks of the undefeated in CFB; are we looking at no-one making it through 2009 unbeaten?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
18/9/2009
The team reflect on the first week of the NFL season and mull over the Bears’s future after their nightmare start. Elsewhere, one or two teams already have issues – due to varying reasons – over their QBs. And in the NCAA, is it time to say that Michigan are back?
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
2009 Preview Edition
10/9/2009
The time for talk is over. Thursday sees the start of the 2009 NFL season. Where all the big questions will be answered. Will Brett Favre make the difference in Minnesota? How will Tom Brady fare on his return? Who will emerge out of the pack as a contender? Can the Steelers retain their crown? Ahead of the opening kickoff Dang and Doc give their predictions for 2009
… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Bold Predictions For ’09
The FD Top 5
5/9/2009
The NFL is a wild and unpredictable beast. Whether it be of injury or parity there are always huge stories you may never have dreamed of. The Diner’s Top 5 Maestro takes his yearly crystal ball out of the cupboard behind the coffee machine, just next to the napkins, dusts it off and takes a shot at what we just might not expect in 2009
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
21/8/2009
Dang and Doc chew the fat over Michael Vick landing in Philadelphia and ask whether after two pre-season games Vince Young is on the verge of taking back his starting job. Elsewhere Michael Crabtree continues to hold out, so the boys consider (again) whether the rookie salary cap needs to come in. Finally they get serious by questioning whether Donte Stallworth’s punishment fits the crime
… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Triggermen in the Firing Line
10/9/2009
The NFL is a quarterback hungry league and recent history shows teams will pay through the nose to get a guy that they hope can be their franchise QB for the long term future. The truth is though, the percentages are low. Many attempts to upgrade fail whilst many maintain the status quo just with a different name throwing the passes. The Diner takes a look at five quarterbacks entering pivotal seasons for themselves and their teams
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
NFC East
6/8/2009
Will releasing Burress be a decision that sets the Giants back? Now the Eagles have lost their two icons on defence, will they become the weak link on this team? Elsewhere, Dallas has been clearing the headline makers but will it make them any better? And as usual the Redskins have been splashing the money, so is it already time for Zorn to deliver big returns? Dang & Doc reveal all
… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Set To Surprise In ’09
The FD Top 5
30/7/2009
You may still struggle to believe that not only did the Arizona Cardinals win the NFC but they were one defensive stop away from winning football’s biggest prize. Now as we count down the days to another 5 months of Sunday nights in front of the box we will take a closer look at the teams who may surprise everyone in 2009
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
AFC South
23/8/2009
Time for Dang and Doc to focus on the AFC South. After the coaching changes in Indianapolis, will there be a visible impact on the Colts performance? How will the Titans fare without Albert Haynesworth. Will the Texans finally break through in 2009 and just how much pressure is Jack Del Rio under heading into the forthcoming campaign
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
23/7/2009
Dang and Doc look ahead to the opening of training camp next week by debating what Tarvaris Jackson ought to do when #4 arrives in Minnesota. Elsewhere, did the Chiefs overpay for Matt Cassell? Elsewhere, who has the best set of running backs in the league? And the guys close out by considering what Roger Goodell should do with the Michael Vick question
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
10/7/2009
The dynamic Diner discussion duo of Dand & Doc look at the legacy of Steve McNair after his untimely passing. Elsewhere they begin to look at head-to-head’s in 2009 in the shape of the 2004 draft QB’s forever inter-twined and the man booted out of Dallas and his replacement. Finally, they consider which of last year’s two outstanding rookie QB’s will fare better in 2009
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Dang & Doc
AFC East
9/7/2009
With the start of the 2009 NFL season now within sight Dang and Doc are beginning a week by week preview of each of the Divisions in the NFL (with a week off to look at the start of the college football year). This week they look at the AFC East. Seen by many going into 2008 as the most predictable division in football, it turned out to be anything but. Heading into week 17, three teams could have won the division. In the end, the Dolphins reversed their 1-15 2007 record and came out on top. The East has seen each team make some major moves in the off-season and the division is going to be one of the most intriguing in the coming year
… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
16/6/2009
Iron Man
So many players are written off before their career has even started and Trent was one of them. Quarterbacks are judged more harshly than most and as an 8th round pick in 1993, Trent Green did not make it the first time round – even the Canadian Football League did not think Green good enough. It took Green until 1998 before he finally got his break
… ( full article )
Brian Davis & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
4/6/2009
As Stock recovers from surgery caused in the heat of the on-field battle, a special guest Brian Davis joins Four Downs to consider the candidates for comeback player of the year, whether a rookie rusher will reach 1,000 yards, how ‘Lights Out’ will fare in his comeback year and whether Maurice Jones-Drew can handle the load now Fred Taylor has left Jacksonville
… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
16/5/2009
This week, the boys mull over the quiet time of the year by looking at the respective prospects of the rookie QB’s in 2009, whether it might be better for the Vikings to ignore the man who simply won’t stay retired, how will Roy Williams fare in Cincinnati and are wide receivers simply becoming too expensive for teams?… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
1/5/2009
Four Downs takes a look back at the weekend’s activity at Music City Hall in New York, considering which of the two AFC West teams had the worst draft and whether the Chiefs made a sound move I the surprise selection of Tyson Jackson. Elsewhere, the Jets have their new franchise QB, but is he worth what they paid? Finally, which of the first round picks stood out most to our guys… ( full article )
Micheal Kavanagh
The Good, The Bad & The Very Ugly
16/4/2009
Dan Hampton on a recent Hamp & Holmes Radio show said that in the thirty years since he was drafted the Bears have had 30 different starting quarterbacks. Undrafted free agents (Tomczak), high draft picks (McNown), low draft picks (Moreno), & trades (Mirer). All have come and gone without leaving the desired stability. Now with the capital BOLD trade for Jay Cutler the Bears are hoping they’ve slammed that revolving door shut for the next decade or so
… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
26/3/2009
This week’s all day breakfast includes taking a look at the main changes to the NFL rulebook following this week’s owners meeting in California. On the of the country, T.O. didn’t show up to voluntary workouts in Buffalo – should it matter? Stock & Doc conclude the menu by again looking at the forthcoming draft, assessing the left tackle and running back class… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
5/3/2009
Pass the Diner menu, this week’s specials include running the rule over the first week of free agency activity, looking at Albert Haynesworth’s move to Washington, Matt Cassel’s trade to the Chiefs and Kellen Winslow’s move to the Bucs and close up by considering what has been the best and worst of the free agency period thus far… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
20/2/2009
Clear the half eaten doughnuts, remove the half drunk coffee, it’s time for Stock and Doc to look past the retiring of Brett Favre and see the mess left in the Big Apple. Elsewhere, with the Cable Guy being confirmed in Oakland all Head Coaching positions are now filled – so who was the best appointment? The Draft is looming large and the Lions are on the clock, where do they go? And finally, Anquan Boldin’s been making a lot of noise of late; does his future lie in Arizona or elsewhere?… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
13/2/2009
A quick look at the scribbles on their napkins reveal that this week Stock & Doc contemplate whether Ray Lewis will still be a Raven come September, look at what is happening with the NFLPA’s search for a successor to Gene Upshaw, decide what is Jerry Jones up to now and then close out by looking ahead to free agency and predicting the biggest mover in 2009… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
6/2/2009
FD’s Pro Football Pair play Doc and take Stock of this weeks biggest issues. They look back over Sunday’s Superbowl and consider Big Ben’s place in history and who really should have been the MVP. Elsewhere, the Hall of Fame class for 2009 is out, with one glaring omission, and the Pro Bowl’s been moved – but does anyone care?… ( full article )
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
50th Edition Special
1/2/2009
They’ve been compared to many things, ESPN’s Around the Horn, Kornheiser and Wilbon, Gumble and Sims, (thankfully not Buck and Aikman), and now Football Diner’s Stadler and Waldorf have reached the milestone of 50 Editions! Grab yourself a fresh frappaccino and sit with them in their favourite Diner booth as they look back at their most insightful moments over the last year… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Still the NFC Worst?
27/1/2009
For years the NFC West has affectionately been renamed the ‘NFC Worst’ complete with under performing teams regularly picking in the top ten in the NFL draft. Many pundits will tell you it’s the worst division in football. So why is it the only division in the NFC to have Super Bowl representation twice in the last five years?… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
16/1/2009
This week Stock and Doc return with a bumper edition, breaking down each of the Divisional playoff games, looking at their implications now and in the future. Elsewhere, teams are filling their coaching vacancies and looking at personnel for 2009. And in the college ranks, can there be any doubt over #1? You bet there can!… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Mike Smith? FD Digs Deeper
8/1/2009
Well Mike Smith ran away with Coach of the year, and we all know the also-rans were guys like Tony Sparano, Bill Belichick and Mike Tomlin, but how about another couple of names for you that I’ll guarantee none of the talking heads were championing. Yes, that’s right, the Diner is telling you how it should have been!… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
7/1/2009
Come on in out of the cold, grab a Diner coffee & muffin (we recommend the blueberry), and listen to Stock and Doc dissect the Wild card weekend, debate whether the playoff structure needs to be revised, look at which coaching job is the best for those after a job, and preview the BCS National Championship game between Florida and Oklahoma… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
3/1/2009
This week Stock and Doc return with a bumper New Year edition, looking back on an eventful week 17 in the NFL and the early off-season moves being made by teams. For those still looking to Tampa Bay, the guys cast an early eye on the playoffs. Over in the college ranks, with Bowl Season in full swing they look at the best of the games thus far… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
20/12/2008
Tell the Diner chef to get cooking, Doc ‘n’ Stock ask should the NFL rule book be refined and simplified, is Monte Kiffin’s move to Defensive Coordinator at Tennessee a move that will propel the Volunteers back into the higher echelons of the NCAA, should Minnesota stick with Tavaris Jackson, and decide who the battles of the top two teams in each conference this weekend will be won by… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Annual All-Deserving Team
17/12/2008
The Pro Bowl rosters are in which instantly sees the debates springing up on who got ignored and who got a trip to Hawaii when they shouldn’t of and as usual here at Football Diner we enjoy a good rant about the end of season “showpiece” as anyone. This isn’t just a pro bowl snub team though, it’s as much about giving some credit to those who form a vital part of a team but just don’t get the hype or credit they deserve… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Ravens Show The Way For 2008 Flops
10/12/2008
2007 was supposed to be Baltimore’s launch towards another deep playoff run. Ultimately the season proved a massive disappointment. Amongst the Ravens odious achievements – a nine game losing streak and humiliatingly being the only team to lose to the 1-15 Miami Dolphins. Sound familiar? That’s because this year there are a few teams in a similar state… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
28/11/2008
Football Diner’s official chain gang turn their weekly attention to Kansas City’s offensive staff, discuss whether Andy Reid or Donovan McNabb should leave Philadelphia, decide who the top two NCAA teams in the county are and ask is Charlie Weis’ time at Notre Dame really up?… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Eagles Shake Up
The FD Top 5
19/11/2008
The Eagles painful tie with the previously 1-8 Cincinnati Bengals was as mind numbing as it was amusing. I have claimed here not to be an Andy Reid basher, but this week on Top Fives I give the biggest reasons why this team has to have a major shake up before things get out of control… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Ugly Oakland On A Road To Nowhere
6/11/2008
Since their last trip to the Super Bowl in 2002 the Raiders have been on a downward spiral. They are a combined 21-67 over the last six years and have gone through five different head coaches in that time frame. One person has remained throughout. Al Davis… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Head Coach Meltdowns
The FD Top 5
30/10/2008
Mike Singletary’s glorious rant after the game on Sunday against the Seahawks was as cringeworthy as it was fantastic. This week on Top Fives we rate the biggest Head Coach meltdowns in NFL history… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
AFC Playoff Race
The FD Top 5
23/10/2008
The way the AFC has played out through 7 weeks of action shows exactly what is so great about the National Football League. Before the season started New England, Indianapolis and San Diego were locks for post season play, but only New England currently boats a winning record… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Beast vs. Worst
17/10/2008
Coming into Week 6 two things were pretty much cast in stone. The NFC East is the best division in football by a country mile and the NFC West, otherwise referred to as ‘the NFC Worst’ is a division filled with mediocrity. Finding out an all NFC West battle is the main game on the box is like finding out you’ve left your wallet on the bus… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Brad Childress deals with the Devil
8/10/2008
Minnesota survived the Saints passing for over 300 yards, a pair of punt return touchdowns, Adrian Peterson being held to 32 yards on over 20 carries, and being outplayed from start to finish to win their second game of the year and stay Brad Childress’ execution for a few games at least… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Most Unlikely MVP Candidates
The FD Top 5
3/10/2008
Buffalo, Tennessee and Denver lead their respective divisions, Indianapolis are under .500 and the Chargers needed a late comeback to .500. With the way the season has gone thus far, it’s easy to focus on what has gone wrong thus far for those respective favourites, but Top Fives is a happy place, and this week we look at those who are outperforming their billing… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
26/9/2008
This week Stock and Doc look at what now for Childress post Tavaris Jackson, who the worst team in the NFL really is, whether the Patriots will indeed make the post-season, and close by looking ahead to the big SEC match-up this weekend… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
Disappointing 2008 Starts
The FD Top 5
17/9/2008
How many of your pre-season predictions are looking as good as ruined right now? Just two weeks into the season and as smug as I’m feeling about tipping Buffalo to get 10 wins this year, I’m also trying to keep quiet about some of my disastrous picks… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Panic Stations
12/9/2008
There are so many things to love about week one. Apart from being the opening weekend of a shiny new season, it’s also the hope giver, the dream destroyer and the dismal end to many a pre-season prediction… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Opening Weekend Massacre
11/9/2008
After just one week of the season players all around the league are dropping like flies. Some are more serious than others, but have no doubts this was a dangerous week to be a football player… ( full article )
Khaled Elsayed
What If…
8/9/2008
Mora was gone. It was all his fault. Him and his co-ordinators with their short curl routes and soft man coverages had ruined what had promised to be a great season. But now he was gone. And offensive genius Bobby Petrino was in. The Falcons fan knew it … this was the guy who was going to turn Michael Vick from someone who scared teams, to someone who destroyed them… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Injuries Threaten AFC Hierarchy
3/9/2008
If there are two things that the NFL pre-season has shown us, it’s that the results generally have no meaning and that two of the AFC’s top teams are only an injury away from being brought back down to earth… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
NFL Season Preview
3/9/2008
After previewing each Division over the past eight weeks, Stock and Doc are joined by fellow Diner writer Chris Brophy to gaze into their crystal balls and deliver their super-sized NFL season preview, making their predictions for the next few months… ( full article )
Matthew Nuttall
College Preview
3/9/2008
The 2008 College Football season promises so much, as questions are beginning to be asked; who will win the SEC? Which at-large team will make a BCS appearance? Can Tim Tebow retain his Heisman trophy and will Notre Dame get back into the national spotlight?… ( full article )
Sam Monson
53 Man Deadline
1/9/2008
The deadline has come and gone for every NFL team to trim its roster down to the 53-man limit, and it’s come with the usual flurry of roster moves. Here we’re going to take a look at 6 of the most interesting names to make it, to get cut, and since there were so many moves to the IR as well, 5 players that were put on IR whose loss could be felt the hardest… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Favre Resolved
8/8/2008
So the Favre saga has finally wound down. Brett Favre is now a New York Jet, and so we can begin to put this tale to bed; at least until next off-season when the will-he / won’t-he retire headlines will no doubt appear all over again.
For now we get to step back and answer a few questions… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Favre to Minnesota: The Perfect Fit, Right?
4/8/2008
The last thing in the world that the Green Bay Packers want is Brett Favre to unretire. Unfortunately for them, that is exactly what has happened, as Brett Favre was reinstated on Sunday, forcing the Packers to choose between a nightmare set of options… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
26/7/2008
Jason Taylor moves to DC, John Harbaugh’s chance at early success, Jeremy Shockey’s ability to help the Saints and the race for the AFC West; Stick and Doc chew the fat over this week’s hotest topics… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
21/7/2008
We begin this rookie diary with our final regular season game of the season, against the University of Limerick Vikings. UL are the defending Shamrock Bowl Champions, and the number 2 seeds for the 2008 playoffs, having lost just one time this season, in something of an upset, to the Dublin Rebels. Safe to say, they’re a serious team… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
11/7/2008
This week the guys mull over the future of Mike Shanahan, whether this will be the last season in Philadelphia for McNabb, who should be ranked the pre-season #1 in the NCAA and take a look at the AFC North in 2008… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Doctor’s Therapy:
The Life of Brian
29/6/2008
In the next instalment of the column which takes a look at the range of characters and personalities around the NFL, we stay within the AFC North and consider the career and future prospects of Brian Billick, a man self-admittedly at a crossroads in his life… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
The Curse Of Bobby Layne
23/6/2008
Curses are not only talking points, they are part of the very culture of American sports. From the Curse of the Bambino which the Boston Red Sox finally snapped in 2004 after being dogged by it for 86 years, to the Curse of 1940, which prevented the New York Rangers from winning the Stanley Cup until 1994… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
12/6/2008
With the Rebels game still lingering in people’s minds, the first training session afterwards was a resounding success, with the best turnout we had had for weeks. Everybody had answered the call to get the season back on track, and we were able to have a solid day working on the passing game… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Funny Business
9/6/2008
Roger Goodell is heading further down his road of trying to clean up the league’s image, and teams are becoming less keen to take a risk on players with big talents but questionable characters. Odell Thurman and Chris Henry are acting their way out of the league with their off-field problems but that’s not the only area where talent takes a backseat though. Sometimes it can happen when people just don’t respect the business part of the NFL… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Got Your Number…
4/6/2008
There are 128 retired jersey numbers in the NFL. It used to be fairly common practice for teams to honour former players with this grand gesture, until that was, somebody realised that jersey numbers were not in unlimited supply… ( full article )
Keith Bowden
The Opposite Of Googlewhacking
30/5/2008
So which is the most popular NFL team? Well there are various ways of measuring this, but I came up with an idea a while back – google-ing the name and looking at the number of “hits”. You can see why the Jaguars worry… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
29/5/2008
The boys book their usual Diner Booth, order the waffles, and take a look at Winslow running his mouth for a new contract, Jason Taylor going Hollywood, Adrian Peterson making a modest prediction and James hardy’s prospects for 2008… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Power Ranking The Decade
Middle Of The Pack # 20-11
27/5/2008
In the second part of our decade of power rankings, we look at the teams who make up the middle of the pack. Some got close at times, others were just plain inconsistent. Does your team make up one of the teams in positions 20-11? Read on and see… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
22/5/2008
This week, the guys contemplate an NFL without the cap, how Roger Goodell handled ‘spygate’, what Mike Martz will do for Mike Nolan, and the QB carousel in Tampa Bay. Will it be FACT or FICTION in this weeks Four Downs?… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Power Ranking The Decade
Wooden Spoon Winners # 32-21
21/5/2008
Here we are, 2008 already and in two years time it will be time to crown a team ‘Team of the Decade’. The Diner likes to be ahead of the pack so we thought it would be fun to power rank the decade thus far. How has the Diner got your team and it’s decade so far?… ( full article )
Keith Bowden
Does Winning In The Division Actually Help?
15/5/2008
Around draft time you often hear critics and coaches speak of picking players to combat their division opponents. But is there too much emphasis on division games that only make up 6/16ths of a team’s regular season game. With less than half the games played in the division, is it as important as some people make out?… ( full article )
Rob Staton
Welcome To The New Season – AFC
10/5/2008
There’s about 120 days until the big kick off. But with the draft in the books and mini-camps under way, it’s time to start looking ahead. We start with the AFC in taking a peak at what expectations are at this stage and how difficult those schedules look and predict the best and worse case scenarios for each team in 2008… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Loading Up
7/5/2008
Two teams stand out from the crowd this offseason. These two teams are cut from the same cloth. Both are built from the trenches, both can run the ball with the best of them, and both have plied their trade on defense shutting down the run. Both decided they were only a couple of major moves away from being able to touch the Lombardi Trophy… ( full article )
Ben Stockwell & Paul Hopkins
Four Downs
with Stock & Doc
1/5/2008
For Stock & Doc’s new edition they sink their teeth into the draft and dish out their highs and lows of the weekend’s selections. Best & worst pick, worst & best team job, it’s all here with extra relish… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
29/4/2008
The waiting is over, your humble Diner reporter is going to battle – it’s game time, baby! The morning of the first game had arrived and it was time to make the arduous journey across the city to ALSAA where our field of battle awaited. Of course, as I’m sure you’re well used to by now things were not going to go that smoothly… ( full article )
Paul Hopkins
Adam Jones: Cowboy In The Last Chance Saloon?
25/4/2008
Only the Cowboys ever really seemed like a likely destination for the troubled one. A fabulous, young talent, with great ability in the secondary and on special teams only attracts one potential suitor, and at a low financial burden? There’s got to be a catch… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Is It A Bit Draughty In Here?
25/4/2008
After what feels like a small millennium, The 2008 NFL Draft is finally upon us. Names will be read out, fans will cheer (or boo) and the internet will be scoured for info on many an unknown seventh round pick… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
The FD Big Top 5
Offensive Players Looking To Make a Big Impact
20/4/2008
Underachieving first round picks from recent years, a back-up who will now get his chance to start, and a second year wide-out. Top Fives brings you offensive players to look out for in 2008… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
Seconds Out, Round One
17/4/2008
The Rams are 2nd up this year for the Draft, the first time the franchise has held that spot since 1983. It can be a difficult place for an NFL side to select from, picking in theory from the best of the rest… ( full article )
Keith Bowden
How Teams Have Used First Picks During Their Present HC Tenancies
17/4/2008
As HC Bill Parcells used his first picks on 9 offense and 10 defense players. Such a study of a teams activities may give you a clue as to which way they may go this time out, or (if your team is poor at one of positions) show a lack of acumen when using their first pick… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
I’m Spartacus.com
8/4/2008
FootballExpert.com has Kevin Smith ranked as the 8th best RB available in the 2008 draft. Kevin Smith disagrees. On his website he has himself ranked first just ahead of Darren McFadden and Matt Forte. And why not? There’s nothing wrong with a bit of self-confidence is there?… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
5/4/2008
Since the last instalment your humble Diner reporter has joined the ranks of the amateur athlete, complete with Lycra ‘compression shorts’, we’re talking serious posing here. Training for the DCU Saints occurs every Sunday, beginning at 11am, and lasting until 2pm, a veritable marathon of exercise for a man whose athletic prowess previously only stretched to outrunning angry recipients of wedgies… ( full article )
Sam Monson
Rookie Diary
2/4/2008
Well, the Diner figured that if we were going to spend our days talking football, and telling you guys what’s what, we should at least attempt to get involved where it counts – on the Gridiron… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
The FD Big Top 5
Defensive Players Looking To Make a Big Impact
28/3/2008
Every year we look to those players who are going to break out and make an impact in the forthcoming season. These “break-out” players tend to come under 2 categories. Firstly they tend to be high draft picks who haven’t quite set the league alight as expected, alternatively they can be low picks who came from nowhere… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
GM Food For Thought
24/3/2008
Ted Sundquist, General Manager of the Denver Broncos, was fired earlier this month after nearly 6 years. That Sundquist lost his employment now, in the weeks leading up to the Draft is odd but that a General Manager was fired is no real surprise at all… ( full article )
Chris Brophy
Off-Season Fantasy Football
18/3/2008
Deciding who your keepers are, considering who to draft and looking over the free agent lists, off-season fantasy football is an important time for franchise decision makers and it’s when they earn their corn… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
15/3/2008
Thank You, and Goodnight
It has finally happened. The legendary figure of Brett Favre will no longer grace the frozen tundra of Lambeau in a competitive game. The agony of the Conference Championship round defeat against the Giants was tempered by the prospect of further Favre spectacle… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Your Anorak Awaits
11/3/2008
One of the great things about football is that, no matter how long you’ve been a fan, every year is a learning experience. No matter how hard you study the rulebook or the pancake stats of your favourite O-lineman, there will always be a little something else to learn… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
The FD Big Top 5
When Free Agency Attacks
5/3/2008
When the clock struck midnight last Thursday night/Friday morning, the money men in the NFL sprung into action almost immediately. Trades are an option again, and as always there’s been a few interesting developments. This time round on Top Fives, we look at the happenings that didn’t quite go to plan… ( full article )
Mark Lyne-Austen
A Long Way From Lambeau
The Difficult Business of Free Agency
27/02/2008
Football smarts make up the sort of intangible that a team can only get a feel for in person. The Combine may be the first opportunity a team has to pick up that impression… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
Things That Should Be Included At The Scouting Combine
26/02/2008
There’s something wholly unhealthy about the Scouting Combine. All those young guys herded into an arena and put through a variety of tests whilst NFL scouts prod and poke them in uncomfortable places… ( full article )
Jody Jamieson
The FD Big Top 5
Top Day 2 Rookie Performers
21/02/2008
Sometimes it’s the guys who are drafted on Day 2 who can make just as big an impact in their rookie year as the big name high draft picks… ( full article )
CJ Sanchez
You’re Franchised!
Jody Jamieson
Strategies For Coping With The Offseason
Mark Lyne-Austen
The NFL’s UK Commitment
Sam Monson
The Forgotten Manning
Jody Jamieson
Key Moments That Won NY The World Title
Rob Staton
Super Bowl Bingo and Bootgate – Part Deux
Jody Jamieson
FD How To Guide: NYG Super Bowl Game Plan
Keith Bowden
Isn’t It Nice To Have A Proper Super Bowl Again?
Jody Jamieson
Biggest Disappointments of 2008
Jody Jamieson
FD How To Guide: Why San Diego Can Win
Keith Bowden
What Not To Wear
Jody Jamieson
FD How To Guide: Ways to beat New England
Jody Jamieson
2007’s Most Memorable Games
Jody Jamieson
Father Jamieson Delivers Festive Gifts to the NFL
Jody Jamieson
Defensive FAs On The Move In 2008
Jody Jamieson
Offensive FAs On The Move In 2008
Jody Jamieson
Records That Could Yet Fall
Jody Jamieson
Big Surprises of 2007
Jody Jamieson
NFC Post Season Primer
Jody Jamieson
AFC Post Season Primer
Jody Jamieson
Patriots will run the table this season
Jody Jamieson
The Only Sheriff In Town
Jody Jamieson
The NFL Season So Far
Jody Jamieson
5 From The Draft
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