Ghost of Lombardi's "Bet The House" Week 6

Hello Gentlemen, Dames, Junkies and Gentlemen Dames. I haven't posted much this week, it's been a busy one. I went out drinking the other night with Bear Bryant and Art Carney. Those fellas can still party. We were two-fisting Brandy Alexanders, Rusty Nails and Slim Mickys like it was the 1920's at the ole' speakeasy. Anyway, It's time for another installment of Ghost of Lombardi's BET! THE! HOUSE! If you're new, here's how it works. I give you predictions, insight and graceful genus found no where else. Then you take what you've learned here, call your bookie and BET! THE! HOUSE!

Disclaimer: Ghost of Lombardi is not responsible for any or all loss of possessions. If you can't act like a big boy or bet like a man, that's your own fault. If you lose, don't come complaining to me that, "Papa never loved me, all I wanted was a hug and he was too busy with his trollops and Pabst Blue Ribbons to take a look at some wooden ship model that I put into a bottle. Then he called me a pussy and told me to get a job but I was only 12. Who would hire a 12 year old for anything? What could have I done at 12 that would have been profitable? A newspaper route I suppose but I didn't even have a bicycle because Papa spent all the Christmas money at the track. Nice Christmas huh? You know what he gave me? Two packs of Lucky Strikes, a bottle of club man cologne and a can of Schaefer. He's like here, Merry Christmas pussy, you're a man now. And I'm like but I asked Santa for a bicycle and an Erector Set! He's like, there is no Santa boy, he died from a VD he got getting a "happy trumpet" from a dirty strumpet."  

Miami at Green Bay. These teams are hard to predict, they're both very unstable. Miami has been dubbed, "an up and comer" for years now but the last time we seen them play, they were slammed by New England 41-14. Green Bay just hasn't been the same since running back Ryan Grant went down for the year. And last week's heartbreaking loss to Washington came down to a field goal that hit the post; dead on. However, I do like the Packers in their own building. The crowds' always electric and there's something magical about being at home in Lambeau. Packers 24 Miami 10

Baltimore in New England. Maybe it's just me but I think this could be the AFC game of the week. This is the Patriots first game without WR Randy Moss but they have reacquired Deion Branch from the Seahawks. I don't know about that one. If anybody can get something out of an old player it's Belichick but I think Branch has seen his best days. The Ravens are 4-1 and their defense has been outstanding. I'm going to say this will come down to whoever's defense falters first. And I think It'll be New England's. Ravens 35 Patriots 28

Kansas City at Houston. Are the Chiefs really this good? I don't think they'll get any credit until they're in the playoffs. Houston has to be out for blood this week though. My questions about Houston are: "Will Andre Johnson be healthy? What about Arian Foster?" The Texans keep saying they're ready to go but I think it's all talk. Plus, once a team picks apart another team's offensive scheme like the Giants did last week, all bets are off. I can't believe I'm saying this but I'm going with the Chiefs. Kansas City 21 Houston 17

Atlanta in Philly. The bird match. The Falcons are playing really well (4-1). I would have liked to see Michael Vick play against his former team but it looks like sh-thead Kevin Kolb gets the start. They say Vick will be ready to go but we just don't know what that means. Vick is battling a rib injury. Rib injuries seem to be a Philly favorite. Remember when McNabb got hurt and they started calling him Donovan McRibb? Classic. Anyway, I'll assume Vick is out and Kolb is his usual suck self. Atlanta 27 Eagles 20

New Orleans comes to Tampa. This years Saints have been a shell of themselves but that's what happens to Super Bowl squads isn't it? The Bucs are 3-1 but their wins are over Cleveland, Carolina and Cincinnati. Their only loss was a spanking from Pittsburgh. So to put it politely, the Bucs are better then worst. The Saints should be able to squeak out a win. N.O. 24 T.B. 21

Seattle at Chicago. This will be a special teams game. Jay Cutler expects to get the start for the 4-1 Bears. He better, I can't watch clipboard captain Todd Collins anymore. The Bears are a weird team. Sometimes they win through the air and other times, the offense disappears and the game is won on special teams. Unless Seattle's Leon Washington can return 2 kicks again, I don't see them winning this one. Bears 29 Seahawks 17

Lions at Giants. This should be highlight day for the Giants. If they win, people will say, "Well it's the Lions, you should win that one" but if they lose, all hell will break loose. Lions safety and former Giant's bust C.C. Brown ripped Manning for being unstable earlier this week. And said the NY media controls the G-Men and were responsible for him getting yanked during last year miserable defensive outing. C.C. is a man in denial. He was awful last year and probably peaked when he was a Houston Texan. Look for Manning to show up big and pick apart this Lion secondary like they were soaking wet cardboard cutouts. Also notable, usually when a player comes out trash talking before a game, his team loses and he gets embarrassed. Giants 35 Lions 10

Cleveland at Pittsburgh. "Never pick orange teams"-Ghost. Pittsburgh 38 Cleveland 14

San Diego in St. Louis. The battle of the 2-3's. The Chargers are better then their record reflects. I'm amazed that quarterback Phillip Rivers can make that offense dangerous out of two-tight end sets. I guess the Rams could win this one but I'm going Chargers. As always, the Chargers will find themselves in a close game. I feel like I've seen Rivers run the two-minute offense more than any QB. San Diego 24 Rams 22

Jets in Denver. NY's Darelle Revis will not play. Seems that hamstring is still giving him problems. But man oh man, what about Antonio Cromartie? This is the best that he's ever played. Rex Ryan must be on his knees praying cause without a shutdown corner, he can't blitz every down. This Jet defense is very impressive. They're fast, they get to the ball and play outstandingly in man coverage. Nothing good to say about Denver. They're just filling the schedule so it's all even around the league. Jets 34 Broncos 24

Oakland at San Fran. Yawn, yawn, yawn. Look for a game filled with mistakes, penalties, fumbles and INTs. These teams are sh-tty at best. I feel like the Niners will win but their QB Alex Smith is garbage. He'll play well up until the fourth quarter and then he'll crack. It'll be anyone's game. I don't know what to say about Smith. It's like he's the complete opposite of a winning QB. He starts hot and ends cold. If the Niners lose, look for head coach Mike Singletary to be on the hot seat. Wouldn't be surprised if he was fired before they clear out candlestick. I'm taking San Fran on a gut feeling alone. 49ers 14 Oakland 13

Dallas at Minnesota a.k.a Debbie does herself cause Dallas can't get up. There are a few parallels in this game. Both are 1-3. Both desperately need a win. And both have complete idiots for head coaches. This could come down to coaching or lack thereof. If I told you back in January that these teams would start off the season at 1-3, you would've said, "Ghost what are you drinking? Meth juice?" I can't believe it. It's not for lack of talent. I mean Dallas is stock piled and deep on both sides of the ball. Minnesota has experienced some key injuries and Brett Farve hasn't been himself. Also, Childress has to learn from coaches who have dealt with Farve. "Don't let Farve run the team." Let's face it, that's why he was pushed out of Green Bay early.  If it were completely left up to Brett, his stats at the end of a game would be 49-76 attempts, 642 yards passing 3 TDs, 7 INTs, Loss in the column. Hopefully Brett and Randy worked out that fly route and they can put Dallas in an early grave. I'm taking the Vikings at home. Minnesota 42 Dallas 30.

Sunday Night: Indy at Washington. The Colts don't look like themselves and it appears that McNabb and Washington have made a deal with the devil. But I like Manning in prime time. That's why I'm taking the Colts. Indy 28 Washington 17

Monday Night: Tennenensnensnenenesnsnsnesee at Jacksonville. I don't like this game at all. Ick! Who picks the schedule? I would've never put this game on in a prime time spot. The Titans are better then the Jaggie-wars, so that's my pick. Enough said, no reason to talk about this one. Tennenenensnensnensee 27 Jags 14

That's my picks. Good day.

Ghost of Lombardi's Sh-t List

It's week 6 of the 2010 NFL season. I want to take this opportunity to reflect upon some thoughts that are swirling around in my head like wind in the old Giant's Stadium. Some teams are faring much better then we thought i.e. The Chiefs and others are on the brink of a top 5 pick in the 2011 draft. Let's pick apart this year so far. Welcome to Ghost of Lombardi's Sh-t List.

First on the list is the 49ers, mainly quarterback Alex Smith. I am so f-cking tired of this guy. Every year we hear the same sh-t! "This is the year for the 49ers, it's their year" Shove that line where it belongs. Smith, a first over-all pick in the 2005 draft is slowly becoming another early round bust. Here's another line from that team, that if I hear one more time; I'm going to walk to San Francisco and punch Singletary in the face..."Alex Smith is the future of this franchise".

When!?!?!?! Motherf--king when?! He's in his 6th season and if it hasn't happened yet, it will NEVER happen. The Niners were well on their way to defeating the Eagles on Sunday Night and Alex Smith fell to pieces like a little girl in Toys 'R' Us, who's mommy wouldn't buy her a new Barbie. Enoughs enough, If you want the 49ers to be a contender again; go get a QB. Why not let David Carr get the start? Teams always do this. Once they label a guy, "The future" they are so afraid to pull the plug fearing they will look stupid about their erroneous prediction. This guy is clearly a bust. If Eddie DeBartolo was there, he would have shot him. Move on.

Alex Smith's stats from year one until week 2...

38 TDs, 47 INTs, 7529 yards passing, 69 QB rating. Yawn, F'in yawn.

Next on the hit list...Viking head coach Brad Childress. And when I say, "Head coach", I mean "Useless guy who has Zero positive impact or input" on the Vikings. Childress isn't in charge and is the head coach by name alone. Why does he give Brett farve free reign when the game is on the line? Vikings-Jets Monday Night...All the Vikings needed to do was march 30 yards and get a field goal to end the game. What does Childress do? He let's Brett Farve throw like it was going out of style. Childress consistently abandons the running game when it's necessary. I hate his stupid face already. He has the look of "what went wrong?" when everyone knows that "what went wrong" is Childress.

Hey Childress, when you standing there like a stupid statue, Farve and Moss were on the sidelines making their own plays like it was a sandlot game. You don't think the Jets seen that? What did you think? That your sideline was protected by an invisible force field? Retard. By the way, Randy Moss joined the team 4 days before the game and didn't know the playbook, yet you let Farve try to force passes to Moss ALL NIGHT LONG. And Randy was covered by a REDHOT Antonio Cromartie. Gimme a break. Did you ever hear of the word decoy? No I guess not. If anybody was playing chess with Childress, I'd imagine that all you have to do to win is point and say, "Look! Bigfoot!" and Childress will turn around and you can put all your pieces back on the board. F'in idiot. This guy could be out smarted while thumb wrestling a 3 fingered toddler.

Next! Wade Phillips. Let me ask everyone something, "How does Wade keep getting hired as a head coach?" Lifetime head coaching stats on Phillips... 81-54 regular season record, 1-4 in the playoffs, .600 winning percentage. Let me get a few things straight. I never liked this guy for one. I mean, if you need him to put together a great defense; he's your man. But he isn't a leader and doesn't belong coaching the Dallas Cowboys. This team is stocked with talent and yet they are 1-3.

Wade's teams have always been like this for the most part, "Allot of talent but they blow up in a big spot and always get flagged for stupid penalties". After TE Jason Witten scored the other day against Tennesseesesesesssesee, Witten hands the ball to an offensive lineman who then spikes it. Flag! Now Dallas has to kickoff from their own 15. The Titans run it back to the Dallas 5 and score a TD on the drive. Game over. That penalty killed Dallas.

Wade is one of those," buddy buddy" coaches who always has undisciplined teams. His players should be aware of the rules but Wade is a piss poor head coach. The only reason he's been in Dallas this long is because Wade is from Texas and Jerry Jones must feel some sort of kinship with this native son. If this talent stocked Dallas squad doesn't turn things around, heads will roll and Wade will be the first to go.

Kudos to Rex Ryan. I can't believe I said that. During a Jet pregame show, Rex was asked a Viking trivia question..."What was the nickname of the Vikings defense in the seventies? Rex quickly responded with, "The Purple People Eaters" and then went on to name it's front four and their backups. Good job Rex on your NFL history but you're still a fat a-hole. But good job anyway.

Things that drive me crazy....

To the Colts defense. Peyton can't do everything. Can you guys overpower a team and lead the Colts to victory? Give Manning a break. Colts lose and cameras turn right to Peyton as if to say, "Maybe Manning isn't that good, the loss is his fault." Come on son, this isn't the NBA where 1 guy can lead you to victory every game.

T.O. tweets before a game. Come on Owens, you know the rules. No tweets before the game. If this guy worried a much about football as he does about his misspelled tweets then we might be crowning him, "Greatest WR in NFL History." But instead, he's a trouble making bum without a ring. Hey Owens, you've already played for 5 teams. 27 to go!

Eagle's QB Kevin Kolb. Not "the future" as they say. He plays like a scared wuss and always has the look of panicked constipation on his face.

Eagle head Coach Andy Reid. Eat some vegetables. You're getting fatter every year. What do you eat for dinner every night? Deep fried Doughnuts filled with chop meat covered in chocolate oil sauce? That's not healthy.

Ghost of Lombardi's "Bet The House"

It's time for the third installment of Ghost of Lombardi's "Bet The House". It's easy and fun for children and geriatrics of all ages. Here's how it works. You read this, then take the dead lock picks I give you and like a drone call your bookie and BET! THE! HOUSE!

Disclaimer: Ghost of Lombardi is not responsible for all and any loss of property or possessions. Seek counseling if you or a loved one have a gambling problem. The National Council on Problem Gambling is standing by 24 hours a day to help you with your addiction, call 1-800-522-4700. Remember it's not your fault, you're just a pussy.

It's week five and the season is flying faster than Deanna Farve to a divorce lawyer. Yuk yuk yuk. Here we go. The Jaguars or how they say in that car commercial, "Jaggie-wars", visit Buffalo this week in a pure stinker. You couldn't give away tickets to this one. I'd rather see a Pittsburgh Pirates v. Washington Nationals game. Seriously, I'd rather watch a goldfish jerk off. Anyway, both teams are a wreck and it's gonna come down to who's house is "less on fire". I'm taking Jacksonville. Jaggie-wars 21 Bills 17. 

The NY Football Giants are facing a red hot Houston team in Reliant Stadium. I'm not sure which version of NY football that we'll see. Will it be the defense from last week or Tom Coughlin's "Stroke face" that headlines the day? Houston's Andre Johnson is still battling an ankle injury but all else fails, they'll go to the ground with power house running back Arian Foster. I'm taking he Giants this week but if they screw this up, I'm betting against them for the rest of the year. Giants 38 Texans 14. 

Kansas City at Indianapolis. The Chiefs are the only undefeated team left but the record might reflect a mistake in the cosmic balance. I think they're starting to come together but aren't as good as they sound. Peyton Manning will surely blow a gasket or a turtle if this team unravels. I've taken the Colts all year and I'm betting on the numbers in this one, you can't keep Peyton down for long. Colts 31 Chiefs 20. 

Here we go, another shitty one. Tampa Bay visiting Cincinnati. Ick. I'd rather see a Pirates v. Nationals double header then watch this one. I'd rather watch a goldfish perform auto-erotic asphyxiation and hang himself in a closet like David Carridine. The only thing this one has going for it is the wacky debauchery of the T.Ochocinco show, if you're into that kind of horse shit. Bengals 27 Bucs 10.

Finally, a watchable one. Green Bay vs. Washington at FedEx Field. This game will be a barn burner. Think passing fest. Think shootout. I believe this game will come down to, "Who has the ball last". Mcnabb has been quite impressive but I'm going youth on this one. Pack 38 Skins 31.

Rams at Lions. If this was last year and I lived in either one of these cities, I'd cry. But this game is slowly becoming better then it sounds. The Rams pass allot and the Lions, well they do Lion things I guess. Can't give you much insight on this one other then they are both dome teams on the rise. Take the St. Louis though. Rams 17 Lions 10.

Bears v. Panthers aka Roe v. Wade. Think abortion on this one. It doesn't look like Chicago's Jay Cutler will play, so career clipboard holder Todd Collins gets the start. The Panthers are terrible and the Chicago still has Devon Hester. It could come down to special teams winning the game. Bears 21 Panthers 3.

Atlanta comes to Cleveland this week. I'm sticking with my rule, "Never pick orange teams." I know, I know, you're saying, "But Ghost, you picked the Bengals over the Bucs". Relax, the Bucs are far worse then the Bengals but if you like Tampa, go for it you junkie. Back to Cleveland. They are horrible. Why do you think Holmgren took the GM job instead of coach? He knew, there is no possible way of turning this franchise around so take the money and sit in a comfortable chair. Atlanta 28 Browns 10.

Broncos at Ravens. Denver QB Kyle Orton hasn't done a bad job thus far but they're missing key parts mainly being: a whole team. They are clearly in a rebuilding transition and waiting for the day that Tim Tebow grows into his role and becomes the leader. However, the Ravens are my favorite to be in the AFC Championship. Big game for Raven QB Flacco. Ravens 41 Broncos 17.

Arizona host the Saints in the desert. New Orleans isn't playing as well as last year but they should take this one. Arizona is complete garbage. Ownership and management wrecked this team. How do you let go of almost all of your all-stars? Karlos Dansby: gone. Antrel Rolle: gone. Anquan Boldin: gone, Kurt Warner: retired. Then the future of the team Matt Leinart, a 2006 first round draft is released. Are you F'in kidding me? You spent 4 years grooming this guy under Warner and then you release him only to bring in Derek Anderson? Whatta joke. Saints 28 Arizona 13.

Tennesseeseeeneessee at Dallas. I hate the name of that state. It's founding fathers must have drunk when they named it. (in a country bumpkin voice)..."Yeah um we gonna name dis state Tennessee" (voice from the crowd) "How do we spell that one Cletus?" (country bumpkin) "Well you git yurself a "T" and then mix up a buncha "e's" "n's" and "s's" until it looks right. "Alright Cletus, sounds gud". Back to the game, it's a good one Cletus. Dallas Cowboys over the Tennennessessesenesee Titans 24-21

San Diego at Oakland. Oakland is on the rise with QB Bruce Gradkoowski but they are the team that finds a way to lose. San Diego takes this in a yawner. S.D. 24 Oakland 17

Sunday Night: Philly in San Fran. Michael Vick is injured so Kevin Kolb will get the start. The Niners desperately need a win to have any chance of staying playoff worthy. This is a tough pick with Kolb playing. He hasn't looked good at all this year. I'm taking the 49ers. S.F. 23 Philly 20

Monday Night: Vikings v. Jets. This one will forever be known as, "The Brett Farve Dick Pic Game". I don't think it's any coincidence that this story was released just days before the game. The Jets and head coach Rex Ryan will do anything to get a win. The Jets would pimp their mothers or eat a baby if it meant a check in the win column. I'm not going to throw numbers or match ups at you. I'm betting with the story on this one. In the past, Brett has performed well under adversity. His brother in law dies four wheeling on his property: win. His wife gets diagnosed with breast cancer: win. His dad dies: win. Bet with Farve and his drama in this one. Plus, Minnesota picked up Randy Moss this week. It should be a good game. Vikings 31 Jets 28.

That's my picks. Thanks for reading and have an auto-erotic day!

The Day The Music Died

We were all wondering what would summon legendary quarterback Brett Farve down from his podium that stretches far to the outer limits of the solar system. Like many immortals of the past, we can't fathom which particular kryptonite will be effective enough to bring a hero to the knees of mortality. To the horizon line where the sight of  humans meet the eye's of gods.

I always listened to songs like "Mrs. Robinson" and wondered why the artist felt that there was a culmination to what they defined as greatness. "Where have you gone Joe DiMaggio? our nation turns it's lonely eyes to you", Sings Paul Simon. What did he mean? There were many great ball players then and to come, so why lose your mind? But I would later realize that he was speaking more of a pristine benchmark that was no longer there rather then a particular loss. A tarnished ideal that never exceeds it's potential.

Here we go again, a tune played Ad nauseam. Oh God!? is that Don McLean driving his Chevy to the levy but the levy is dry? Why whine and wax for Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and the Big Bopper? There's plenty of great Rock n' Roll to listen to Don. It's not over, but it is. To McLean, that era was the standard. Something so uniquely personal and special that even if Jesus Christ himself, came down off the cross and played guitar with his teeth, it would never match what he experienced before the day the music died. 

"February made me shiver, with every paper I'd deliver." Well it's not February and nobody reads the paper anymore. But I did get a shiver with every browser filled with Brett Farve's alleged attempted affair with Jet's reporter Jenn Sterger. Apparently, when Brett was a Jet, he tried to solicit Sterger via myspace, telephone and even used a NY Jet executive as a note passing middle man. Voicemail messages have been released and worst of all, pictures of Brett's offensive unit. No, not the guys he plays football with but the unit he wanted Sterger to... it's er, a...Ok enough with the euphemisms, you see Farve's dick. Allegedly.

Warning: This is very damaging to the mind and soul, but if you must... www.deadspin.com

What was Farve thinking? Yes, Jenn Sterger, a former Maxim model is smoking hot. I get it. But come on! Why be so sloppy about your approach Brett? Voice mails? Dick pics? Did he really think that none of this would ever surface? We aren't far removed from the Tiger Woods scandal and here we are again, another athlete with the mind of a high school boy; without thought or consequence. It's like he wanted to get caught.

Maybe I'm making too much of this but I always thought that old number 4 would leave the field a champion, with all the class and accolades of an American hero. Another one bites the dust. Maybe I'm an idealist. Always thought a defensive end or old age would end this career, not a hot chick. I realize that everyone has their faults but is everyone stupid too? He has it all: NFL quarterback, Super Bowl titles, a pretty wife, children, grand children, money, trials and tribulations overcome. His story is like the Odyssey with a helmet. I guess I'll never understand it and I'm not sure that the greatest PR firm in the country can handle this one. How oh how can this be spun? "Brett sends dick pics to a much younger woman while married to a cancer survivor". It can't be spun, as the inarticulate will say, "It is what it is." Instead of ending this story book career with an exclamation point, it will commence with every idiot's delight and favorite crutch; lol.

Every generation has it's hero and villains. It's winners and losers. As we evolve on our course into the future, the lines become a little more blurry with every second's tick. Our perceptions of black and white have been spun into a putrid grey. Goliath becomes more like David and David sends inappropriate pics via text message. The game goes on without it's goal and the movie no longer relies on a happy ending. The radio plays on even though the music has died.

Ghost's Opponent Insider: Houston Texans

The New York Football Giants fly to Houston this week to face the red hot 3-1 Texans. The last time these two teams played was in 2006 with the Giants stealing a 14-10 win at home. But let's face the facts, this is NOT that 12.5 point underdog. Houston's only loss this year came off a Dallas must win. And let's not forget, they beat the Colts. So Let's get out our football scalpel and slice this week 5 match up to bits.

The Texans run a fairly balanced offense but rely a little more on the pass. Quarterback Matt Schaub is quickly making a name for himself in this league. This year alone, he has passed for 1037 yards, 7 TDs, 4 INTs for a 95.6 passer rating. Not to Schaubby. Ick! I know, a horribly stretched pun. If he continues on this pace, we're looking at 4,000 yards passing and 28 tds. Matt spreads the ball around but his main targets tend to be receivers Andre Johnson (1 TD, 255 yds) and Kevin Walter (3 TDs, 242 yds). Johnson has been hurt so I'm anxious to see how much he will contribute. 

The Giants front four needs to put pressure on Schaub and force him into "Cutler's panic". Schaub has been sacked 11 times for 63 yards. If Tuck, Osi and Co. do half as well as last week and the secondary does it's job, It will be a long day for Matt. On average, NY's pass defense has only given up 139 yards per game. This battle will give us a good idea where the Giants stand defensively.

The true test will come on NY's ability to contain running back Arian Foster. He is the lead horse for Houston averaging 134 yards per game, 6.3 yards a carry and 4 TDs. Houston will surely be looking to take advantage of NY on the ground as they've given up nearly 4 yards a carry. Not huge numbers but enough to make this a grind game and covert 3rd's to 1st's. Again, this game will be won or lost in the trenches so it is imminent that Big Blue applies consistent pressure and containment. If they can shut down Foster, they'll be forced into long throwing situations.

Watch & Exploit:

Watch out for Houston's Mario Williams and Bernard Pollard. Pollard leads the team in tackles with 41 but he is a safety.  Usually a hint: Safeties who lead the team in tackles= poor rush defense. But that's not the case here. Houston has held opponents to 281 yards rushing in 4 games but they are very shaky against the pass, giving up 337 yards a game. This would explain why Pollard has so many tackles. 

Giant's offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride needs change it up a bit. For one: prepare and be creative. Exploit Houston's secondary by utilizing 3 WR sets and decoys to distract Pollard away from the ball. I recommend short 8-10 yard dump offs that will give Pollard less time to come over and help his corners. Create 1 on 1 match ups and spread out the offense. Once the Texans adjust, I see many opportunities for the long ball. Giant WRs will be open all day, so get them the ball, frequent and early. Especially Nicks. he is a game breaker and does well in 1 on 1 situations.

NY's O-line will have their hands full. Defensive End Mario Williams is a beast and has already registered 5 sacks for the year. Keep him away from Eli and he should be able to throw for 350+ yards on that tattered Texan secondary. Keep in mind, establish the run but don't force it. The Giant's have the tendency to keep using something that isn't working. If the run game isn't working early, don't worry. Think backwards this week: Pass to set up the run. 

Fun little facts: Houston is 50% on 3rd down conversions and they usually pass on first down. Giant's defensive coordinator Perry Fewell knows this. So Perry, make sure throw some strange looks at Houston on first down. Start by faking the blitz on first forcing Shaub to audible run. Perhaps, reel Houston into believing that it's man coverage on first, switch to zone and send Ross in on a blitz. Play minds games and remember Houston is hot but they're newly hot. 

In closing remember, pressure Schaub, contain Foster, be creative on defense and offense, exploit Houston's secondary, pass to set up the run and don't play like sissies.  

Giant Defense Crushes Cutler

The Giant defense had a huge outing yesterday, registering an all time first half with 9 sacks on Chicago's Jay Cutler. Many will say, "Defense is back for Big Blue" but I would be cautious before you start chanting Super Bowl. It's a relief that NY has many positives to build on and we all await the day for both sides of the ball to be on the same page, in the same game. A win is a win but the 17-3 final score does not reflect the missed opportunities that the
Giants gave up on offense.

NY's defense provided a nostalgic segue to half time's "Ring of Honor" ceremony. It was really great to see the Giants return to their roots and all 30 inductees must have felt sense of pride seeing the Bears go 3 and out on multiple drives. Jay Cutler spent most of the half on the ground or running for his life until corner back Aaron Ross finally put him out of his misery. Cutler left the game with a concussion after smacking his head on the turf during a corner blitz.

Career backup QB Todd Collins took over at the half and didn't do much better. He was knocked around and replaced by the third string QB after a brutal hit. I must mention that the Giants will not see this type of offense for the rest of the season or until the next time they play the Bears. Chicago doesn't run the ball much and hardly ever uses max protect packages; leaving the QB vulnerable. Also, the Bears QB's utilize a 7 step drop back that gives them less time to set up and they hold onto the ball 2 or 3 seconds longer then they should. Cutler had many WRs open in the middle of the field but chose to play street ball often looking for deep passes and the big play. Offensive coordinator Mike Martz is known for these "wacky" offenses and unfortunately the Giants won't encounter a team like this again.

Onto NY's offense. In a word, "Torturous". When your defense is playing this well, you must put away the game sooner then later. WR's are still dropping well thrown balls and Eli's looked frustrated. I've noticed that Manning tends to get sloppy after his receivers drop easy catches. I can't tell you what the score might have been without all the mistakes that were made on offense. The Bears defense played well at best but it was the Giants who were still shooting themselves in the foot by not converting turnovers into touchdowns.

Bradshaw played well but I'm getting increasingly concerned about his tendency to put the ball on the ground in a big spot. He broke off a nice run and was 5 yards from a TD. For some reason, he slowed down and didn't see a Bear's defender coming up from behind to strip him. Lost opportunity. I can't say for sure but it appeared Bradshaw was looking at himself on the screen while running. Unacceptable.

Brandon Jacobs: I like you less and less every week. What happened to this guy? Don't let his 62 yards and 1 TD fool you. His one yard six point scamper was set up after a big catch by by WR Hakeem Nicks. And his 62 yards rushing? Padded stats that came late in the game. His first carry was a fumbled exchange between he and Manning. By rule, missed exchanges of this type are reflected as a fumble for the QB. But anyone who was watching seen that it was Brandon's fault for sure. The Giants went back to Jacobs and he almost put another one on the ground. For a player who says he wants to contribute, he surely goes out of his way to do the opposite and give Tom Coughlin stroke face. 

When will NY at least consider bringing in another punter? Matt Dodge is quickly becoming a walking coined phrase. Football scouts in the future will see a punter with his ability or disability and say, "Wow booming leg, inconsistent, he's a Matt Dodge." Mark my words, Dodge will cost the Giants a big game. He's only comfortable kicking when the Giants have a decent lead and is otherwise a mistake laden bundle of nerves that has too much negative impact. Dodge botched a hold on a field goal attempt. Laces out Matt! At one point he dropped the snap and took off running. He could've keep going and picked up a first but decided to punt on the run. What? Punting is supposed to be nearly automatic but this guy makes it out to be as difficult to pull off as a 64 yarder into the wind. 

All in all NY made it out with a win but we can't go backwards gentlemen. This is the time to take what you did and maximize potential. With 3 of 4 NFC East teams tied for first, Now is the perfect moment to play Giant football. Run the ball and defense. Fair weather fans will be bored to death but this equation translates into regular season wins and post season glory. Take a bow and move on to Houston.

Here we go Gi-ants! Here we go!

The Giants are starting to look more and more like a M.A.S.H. unit at Iwo Jima. Injuries have bugged this team for a couple of years now and it makes you question the off season conditioning program in East Rutherford. Is there such a program?

Out this week: Kiwi-bulging disc, Michael Johnson- back, (out for the year), Will Beaty-foot, Shaun O'Hara- ankle.

Keith Bulluck is doubtful-turf toe.

Questionable: Osi-knee, Rocky Bernard- back, he's always on the injury report.

Probable: Chase Blackburn- Knee, Mario Manningham- concussion, Darius Reynauld- migraines (NY got him in a trade from the Vikings, guess he caught migraines from Percey Harvin), Phillip Dillard- hamstring, (2010 draft pick, yet to see this guy play)

The above mentioned are players that we know to be injured. What about the ones we don't know about? And I didn't even get into players like Sinorice Moss who are chronically injured and yet to see action this year.


NY is a "Murphy's Law" of follies. Leadership issues, coaching issues, penalties, mistakes, inconsistency and injuries. I'm hoping the young players can step up. Hopefully Clint Sintim can make an impact at middle linebacker because it's becoming obvious that free agent pickups like Keith Bulluck are too old and banged up to make any sort of positive contribution. 

I realize that many of my posts are laced in negative speak. You would think that I hate Big Blue and that's just not the case. In my defense, there has been nothing positive to write about unless you want to hear more about the players and their private charity work.

Dread is the word I use to describe my state of mind right before I open the sports section every day. Dread quickly turns to frustration and onto panic. I've watched football for a long time now and know any turn around would be nothing short of a miracle. The Bears game is a silent must win or we'll be looking at a team that is no better then 3-13.

Ghost of Lombardi's "Bet The House" Twooooooo!

Hello fellas and dames. It's Friday and you know what that means. Time for the second installment of Ghost of Lombardi's "Bet The House". This is where I give you predictions and insight only attainable by great football minds like myself. Picks so good that you'll feel confident enough to run out and BET! THE! HOUSE! Last week I went 11-4, not to shabby. So here we go...

Disclaimer: Ghost of Lombardi is not responsible for any and all loss of property. All picks are made after very little sleep and much whiskey breakfast.

The Cowboys, Cheifs, Vikings and Bucs are all off this week. The NY Jets travel to Buffalo to face the much laughed at Bills. What can I say about Buffalo other then, I'm glad I'm not a Bills fan. With the release this week of QB Trent Edwards, Ryan Fitzpatrick will get the start while the Jets have added another big name to their defense; DE Trevor Pryce. I hate to say it but the Jets will win and win big. If the Bills upset in this one, I'll change my name to Ghost of girly girl pink thong dildo head. Jets 34 Bills 17. Cincinnati at Cleveland. I always say, "It's safe to never pick orange teams" but this week they play each other. Cleveland being the worst of them, I'm taking the Bengals by 14.

Denver comes to town to face the Titans. The Broncos are shaky at best and Titan running back Chris Johnson should have a huge! huge! huge! day on the ground. Titans 28 Broncos 14. Here we go again, Drew Brees "at home in a dome" against the fall apart Panthers. This one is going to be like the Saints are playing a high school squad. Saints 38 Panthers 7. Green Bay will host Detroit in a NFC North match-up. Seems like any easy choice but when you're picking the NFC North or the NFC East, all bets are off. The Packers still seem unstable since the loss of running back Ryan Grant. I flipped a coin on this one, Packers 21 Detroit 10. The Rams are coming off a big win over the Redskins and will be riding a high when they host Seattle. This is a recipe for an all out drudging. Seattle's Leon Washington had a big game with two returns for touchdowns. I'm sure the Rams will throw allot but you know what they say, "Live by the gun, die by the gun". Seahawks 27 Rams 17.

San Fran at Atlanta. The 49ers are in a state of "What?" What do we do? What was that? What was I thinking? I feel like they could sneak out a win here but I'm going on what I see, a team in a nose dive. Did you know that San Francisco locals hate when "outsiders" use the term San Fran when referring to their city? Oh well, Atlanta 24 San Fran 14. The Ravens come to Pittsburgh this week. I always spell "Pittsburgh" wrong often leaving off that stupid "h" that really has no purpose. I mean who says, Pittsburg-hhh and breathes their hot man breath all over you. Disgusting. The Steelers have been winning with defense and it doesn't seem to matter who is playing quarterback but they're due for a loss. Joe Flacco is going to open up shop on them and Troy Palamalalalolalelaoa (I can't say his name never mind spell it) won't be able to cover all the talent they have at wide receiver. Baltimore 35 Pittsburg-hhh 17.

Houston at Oakland. Borrr-ring! Houston 28 Oakland 21. Peyton Manning vs. Jacksonville. Come on son?! The P. Mannings 34  Jacksonville 14. (rubbing my hands together in suspense) OOOOH Boy! Washington in Philly. McNabb will face his former team in a stadium that many would love to see, burnt to the ground. Their fans are mean spirited s.o.b.'s. When they're not watching the Eagles, they spend their time drinking scotch, stepping on babies' fingers and kidney punching wheel chair bound old ladies. Awful people. The over-under on McNabb getting booed is 14. I'm mean these are people, that only go to church because they think they're actually eating the remains of Jesus Christ. Anyway, Eagles 34 Redskins 31 in a close one. Arizona at San Diego. Take your pick. Who knows, who cares. Chargers 21 Arizona 17.

Sunday night will feature Giants v. Bears. Unfortunately, the Giants have to play this week. I'm a big fan of the bye week at this point and wish they had one. Wake up NY! The good news: The Giants have fared well against the run. The bad news: The Bears' running backs have a combined 53 rushing attempts. Jay Cutler has thrown over 90 times so expect him to pass and throw up many opportunities for NY to take advantage of. I can't stress this enough. Big Blue needs to pick this guy 2-3 times in order to pull out a win. And The Giant defense has to get to Cutler. He takes a 7 step drop and holds the ball forever. This is the game that the Giants could have handed to them on a silver platter. Come on D! Giants 28 Bears 21. Yes I picked the Giants.

Monday Night: Are you ready for some Hank Williams Jr? What's the deal with that guy? He appears to be ageless. He's looked the same since I was four. I guess a big beard IS the secret to looking younger after all! When Hank's finished singing his trademark song, we'll see the Patriots line up against Miami in Sun Life Stadium or should I say, "vamos a ver a los Patriotas de Nueva Inglaterra juegan los Dolphins de Miami en el Estadio Sun Life".  Hope thats right, it just being Spanish heritage month and all. I got to admit, I was confused last Sunday and turned the game off thinking it was soccer when they opened with "Los Nueva Airoplanos v. Los Miami Fishyfishes". Anyway, New England should win this one. Patriots 30 Los Miami ADolphinsnotafishy 20. 

Well that's my picks. So have a great day and shitty weekend.

P.S. Thanks for all your response this week, keep em' coming!