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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
 

( ... Click here to sort articles By Writer ... )
 
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
 

( ... Click here to sort articles By Writer ... )
 
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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