Carey

That's fine. I have to be clear: it's not mind-blowing to me, I'm just saying it is. NUguy, maybe mind-blowing is the wrong choice of words, and apologies if I offensive. I'm not going to say that I'm one of, if not, the biggest supporter of choosing safety first. However, I lean toward safely and precaution, with a mix of making sure you can proceed with business instead of doing nothing. It would be silly to think that it’s a shocker that people are testing positive. My concern is that you would think that the teams would be extra, extra careful during the postseason. I’m the one (one of several people) who called for a bubble setting for the playoffs and even the last couple of weeks or so in the postseason, but that resulted in respectful disagreement, citing the difficulty of such a precaution (bigger rosters, logistics, etc). The league chose not to enforce it, stating that the expectation would be for all participants to handle that themselves. You would think that teams would be smart enough to do that on their own, especially given what happened with Denver, Tennessee, and Baltimore. Come to think of it, I wouldn’t bet on that. Well, I expect teams like Kansas City, Green Bay, Tampa Bay, and New Orleans to be extra smart. New England totally would have been. Meanwhile, I don’t expect teams like Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, and Houston or Dallas had they made it to have had the discipline to self-isolate. Well, those teams are not in it right now, but I guess the teams that are serious about winning AND serious about the pandemic will be the ones that will make it without missing people. As merylinked said, it is not good to be away from family. Family comes first. Not to sound harsh, but I think a decision should have been made to abort or opt out of the postseason if a player needed to spend time with his family, or to stay away until February or until they lost, whichever came first. The holidays, specifically Christmas, I can defend, but that was nearly three weeks ago. Anyway, I’ll feel bad if a team loses because of unavailable players, but barely. It’ll suck if we’re denied seeing a spectacular game, but I guess I might not care about it in the long run. Cleveland did pummel the Steelers, which made UMBC winning against Virginia just another game. While it helps that Pittsburgh is lazy and doesn’t prepare well enough on a consistent basis, the Browns will tell you they have a team full of professionals and therefore are good enough to win with effort and preparation. That’s pretty much been the case for Cleveland this year, despite their competition. They proved they can win while being decimated with covid, however, I don’t think that’s a favorable trend as there are much, much better teams this year than the Steelers. To close, I’m happy that it appears that the NFL will complete the season with the games being played when they originally were scheduled to be played (the postseason that is). If/when they get to those and the season ends with a new champion or a repeat champ, then that is a total win for the league regardless of anything that has happened prior to the current period

I'm sorry, but it's mind-blowing that anyone still in the postseason is testing positive for covid. Jared Veldheer and whomever else has to do better. It would've been nice to have gotten to February 7th without any positive tests for teams still in it or even everybody else. Fortunately there have been no close contacts, so the optimism is rather significant. Coming from Indianapolis, the precautionary methods would be a bit different so while it might wreck whatever Green Bay has done thus far, I think everyone involved dodged a bullet

If that holds, I think that would make him the second elite NFL player to host an Elite gameshow within the past decade if not all time. Albeit temporary, he would be the first accomplished NFL player (but not first outright NFL player) to host an accomplished year-round gameshow

I least I finally predicted the eventual winner outright, so there's a moral victory for yours truly. Though IIRC I did say that Clemson would take out Alabama a couple years ago, but I'm usually incorrect. Meh; hats off to Alabama and Nick Saban. AND really for the sport finding a way to finish the year. That really is directed to the ACC and the SEC. To some extent; it's pretty easy for a conference to do whatever it takes to get in a season when they're more likely than not to have a team get into the CFB Playoff every year. It's still a nice accomplishment for Saban and Bama, but as mentioned it seems a little hollow. Over 100 teams including 25 contenders, but it's not a season in the sport unless the playoff field has Alabama, and then, Clemson, Notre Dame/Ohio State, and another SEC program. Everyone else, forget it. Mojoween, I felt for Coach Corso as well. ESPN was never going to have him attend the events live, and they've been good to Lee over the past 12 years in addition to the past 3.5 decades. The coach usually doesn't do anything late except for twice a year including the Heisman and the National Championship. Other than that, it's just Gameday Saturday mornings and nothing else (apart from the two mentioned evening events and until last year, the NFL Draft). Honestly, I felt worried for the coach all season and over the years anyway, but the guy contributes like a pro, always has done so. Obviously these days when you get the Xs and Os, folks like Kirk, Des, Pollack, Bear, etc are very good. I think last night was the first time I felt genuinely concerned for the Coach to the point where I was not optimistic he would return next season. Probably could be the fact that Lee Corso didn't want to be there, couldn't wait to be done with the season. In addition to the obvious, could be that he was bored outright, especially with everything going on. If this is it for him, I will not be surprised at all. Sure Ohio State could've won last night, but IMO, it is telling that went with Brutus when he probably would've picked Bama at least most other times. Personally, I think he went with Ohio State for the headgear last night for the purpose of ending with what started it all more than the Buckeyes' chances of winning it. I hope I'm wrong, but while there is optimism we are heading in the right direction, there is still a long way to go. I don't know or think the Coach is going to do this remote thing another year. Whether he'll want to travel with Rece and company is a different story, but I don't know about that either

Final line/spread has Alabama -9.5 and an O/U of 75.5 The Crimson Tide goes into the game undefeated in National Championship Games whenever they have a Heisman winner within the same season. DeVonta Smith might the the difference maker for Bama, and Fields for Ohio State. I don't think Ohio State will lose by double digits. On a related note I don't think Alabama will lose, period. Not sure how healthy Justin he'll be playing as if he isn't hurt

I usually don't link to other stuff unless it's imperative (i.e. crediting a source of info from Schefty, Glazer, Florio, and the Rap Sheet). If you ever wanted to truly feel the pain of a fanbase after a massive, humiliating fall, here you go! Obviously (sorry about that pun) it's not a great feeling in Western Pennsylvania, and there are about one or two truly pissed off people. I haven't heard of anyone ending it and jumping off of a bridge into the three rivers. However, for the most part if not the slight majority, the feeling isn't that bad. From what I've seen, several people had an "Oh Well" feeling. Nothing like in the past more often than not. Not much shock (and anger); just the fact that the Steelers did this to themselves. Pittsburgh has a history of blowing it, especially under Mike Tomlin. The track record of losing games of significance is extreme. At the end of the day, the result was accepted as people had to get the week started. IMO, part of the reason for the lack of mourning is because the Steelers were never going to beat any of the other teams left in the postseason. They had no shot against Kansas City (and Green Bay, Tampa & New Orleans from the NFC) and they weren't going to get by Buffalo anyway. Never say never, but even if the Steelers had shown up, it was a tall task going forward. Doug Peterson had to go, but he is the victim of misfortune. He went from winning a Super Bowl, to winning a playoff game the next year, to winning the division the year after that, and then to this year. When you lose a locker room, there's nothing you can do about it. However, several of those Eagles players need to get tossed out in addition to Peterson

You might have to flip a coin if Tampa "hosts" Kansas City in this year's Super Bowl

If you're correct and the "feel good" stories do end, then we'll see the Buccaneers face the winner of Green Bay and L.A. Opening Lines Los Angeles at Green Bay (-7) Baltimore at Buffalo (-3) Cleveland at Kansas City (-10!) Tampa Bay at New Orleans (-3) Some places have Bills favored 2.5 over Baltimore, but really, if those teams were swapped, then that would be accurate too. Kansas City as a double-digit favorite is way too much. If the Saints were favored by 10 over the Bucs, I could buy that. The defending champion stuff is a little overrated. The best QB may be on the field but he's not this year's best QB. IMO, the Packers favored by 7 over the Rams is correct. My early picks for next weekend have me going with Packers, Ravens, Browns, and Saints. The New Orleans/Tampa game is the toughest of the four to figure out. Maybe I'll flip to the Bucs; I usually don't change my picks, but I don't usually pick this early either

The good news is that their OC's contract is up (this season he was in his final year). Otherwise, one would be better off jumping off of a building or bridge if they wanted the OC gone. Similar thing happened with Keith Butler, their DC. The thing is he survived while under contract, and then turned it around defensively (in 2019), so he should be okay. The NFL hasn't cancelled next weeks Chiefs/Browns game. The league didn't cancel Superbowl 42 or Super Bowl III. Fortunately those guys within the Cleveland locker room will proceed through this week and into Sunday with the mentality that they have much more than a chance against Kansas City

I guess they changed, or lifted the bad on no alternates in the postseason. Unless it's their regular home gear Looks like this is a game after all. It's early, but it appears Brees is all but done soon after the season is done for good

Baltimore dancing on the Titans' logo what just....perfect

It would have been sweet if the What The Fucks had managed to beat him! That would mean every team in NFL history entering the postseason with a losing record would remain undefeated during wild card weekend! Tampa Bay will avoid the NFC North regardless of who wins the Saints/Bears game. If New Orleans wins, he'll have to do whatever it takes to get by them in order to reach Green Bay OR host Los Angeles. If Chicago wins OTOH, the Bucs get to pummel the Rams at Raymond James Stadium, which means Brady will be guaranteed a shot at winning a playoff game against one team from every division as it stands right now (regardless of a Packers win). I think Joe Montana definitely reached that milestone, even before his move to Kansas City. Say what you will about that, but that's pretty close to saying that the current construction of the NFL sucks without actually saying so

If Chicago does pull off the upset, Tampa would make history as being the first 5 seed to host a playoff game and the first time a team that started its playoff run on the road hosted a playoff game later in the same postseason. The 2010 Baltimore Ravens were the closest someone ever came to reaching that feat. The honor of a road playoff team hosting a conference championship game is less likely even if the Bucs were to win, but if New Orleans wins as expected, it's still possible (but very, very unlikely if LA's injuries doom them)

I hope the Saints go back to the era where they sucked worse than the Cleveland Browns and New York Jets once did. I mean that. BUT? For one reason only: If Chicago wins tomorrow!

Whatever happens, it'll show that (as long as you have a defense) the Bucs are not the team to beat in the NFC if not the entire league. IMO, if Washington survives and advances to New Orleans (if not staying put at FedEx Field), Bruce Arians is a goner

I guess even they figured that they should be on the road in Tampa who has double-digit wins instead where they're at with a sub 500 record

Ah yes. The reality and possibility of the Bucs hosting a playoff game (in the divisional round) is alive and well

At least they have their head coach. This probably should've been the ESPN game. Same with the Browns/Steelers game except the media is acting like the Browns have already won something substantial & has done so over the past couple of years. The TB12 effect I get; I don't think Alex Smith would've made a difference even if he was available and healthy (only because the TB defense is pretty good and the WFT offense isn't pretty good). I'm totally glad that Buffalo won. That increased when that questionable call stood. I'm glad it did. I probably would've been pissed if Indy lost over that possible turnover, but not if it was originally ruled a catch/fumble/turnover. I think I definitely would've been pissed if Indy won over it however!

Nice story. That is one big thing during the past year that's miss: being able to talk to people about the game. Sure you can do it remotely, but it just seemed so lackluster this year. As for the game itself and one's readiness: I disagree. Riverboat Ron is undefeated against Tom Brady. Evans isn't 100% and Gronk is old. OTOH, AB is undefeated against Riverboat Ron. That defense is pretty good. Their offense sucks but the defense is a big part of a team that is really rebuilding. Washington overall isn't playoff ready but Rivera has experience. Meanwhile, Brady, Gronk, & AB have playoff experience but Tampa doesn't. It's early, but round one to Indianapolis. But it's early, and looks like Round 2 will go to Buffalo (if they score). Colts needed a TD but got a FT. They did, but the pressure isn't there for the Ravens this year. They lost in overtime this year. I think it could go either way, but Baltimore has a little more and a Plan B to help on offense. I think if they can score early enough they'll be good, or if they actually stop D Henry they should be okay as well. I'm sorry, but as far as the new playoff format goes: This is awesome! For me, it's a blast from the past. NFL playoff game early Saturday afternoon with the Bills hosting. Any resemblance of retro/classic NFL is good for me!

I think Alex Smith might have played his last game already. That would've been against a team that said no thank you to winning and sign me up for tying against an equally horrendous franchise. I'm not sure what'll be more of an upset between Tampa going home and the Browns winning outright. The Steelers culture is one where they play down to the competition and are underprepared when it comes to a shift of schedule or personnel. Save for their game against Jacksonville in 2017, that isn't the case in the postseason. What gets to Pittsburgh in terms of defeat is usually injuries but really running into an opponent that's just better than you. Buffalo should win, but I don't think they need to blow out the Colts. IOW, I don't think it'll be a blowout. Seattle will survive because the best QB in the game will actually participate. Washington likely covers but that's it. New Orleans should win by the first quarter. Like the Bills, Chicago doesn't have the playoff experience, while the Saints do. Tennessee and Baltimore should've been the SNF game as it's the best game out of the 6 games. I think the lack of pressure for the Ravens will result in a victory. Which is great because, while you have to earn it, Lamar deserves a playoff win & it'll be great to see him get there

Very nice ending! I shed a tear or two but no legit crying. I was still super-emotional as much as I was early in November. From knowing that it was officially ending to the point where it’s officially over, there goes a part of life that is gone forever. There are eras that come and go, and then there is this one. As mentioned, Alex was the best, full of class and charisma. A major icon all around! I’m out as well. Similar to TPIR, the show is bigger than the host. That might be the polite thing to say, but at the end of the day, similar to Price and Bob, Alex was the face of Jeopardy. I’ll be tough for the successors, but in my opinion, it’ll be a lot tougher than it was for Bob. It took time for Drew after his debut but not too long. Whatever happens and whoever succeeds Alex, I believe Jeopardy will be okay down the road. It’ll be exactly what Alex would want when we get to that point. Touching tribute, fantastic run. Thank you and so long, Alex.

Yeah, the Eagles players really don't have any room to talk. Maybe they do; their lack of winning may be contributed to all of their injuries they have. However, as Bill Parcells has mentioned in the past: No one's cancelling games over injuries. I wouldn't say Doug Pederson was right in his actions but oh well. Pulling Jalen was definitely fair enough on Sunday As for Ben sitting out, I don't know if you meant to say yes or yet; either way, Roethlisberger sitting out was what needed to happen. Each of the last three times they made the playoffs, he sat out in Week 17 where a win or loss changed nothing in terms of their seeding. 2017 was a tough decision for several reasons but Pittsburgh nearly beat Cleveland again with their backups. Since 2008, the Steelers are 8-0 against the Browns when the two face each other in Week 17. Not the same thing between that and what Philly did, as mentioned. I can see several teams beating Kansas City. However, I don't think it can happen; while I can see the Chiefs losing, I can't see anyone dominating them for 60 minutes. They still have the best player in the league. Sure Aaron Rodgers is the best player right now as it relates to the season, and Josh Allen has been the best player over the past month, but you have to factor in experience and the past into the equation. Patrick has been the best over the past several years. If Kansas City were to lose, it would be due to someone having to double their efforts or triple their efforts to win by a possession. New England, known for pounding teams in the playoffs except for Baltimore or Manning-era Denver were handling their annual business against the Chiefs. Except they couldn't do it for an hour of game-time. They won in OT. I like Pittsburgh's chances as much as Buffalo, as their defense is a little better than the Bills (even though it didn't show in Week 14). They have a lot of weapons on the offensive side and if they did what they did against Indianapolis then they have a chance. At best; I think they'll lose, and I would've said the same thing if a Chiefs/Steelers game were played at Heinz Field (even with 65,000+ fans). I actually said at much early on. They're not good enough to score a lot of points, and that's not their style of offense. Defensively they're efficient at both the ground game and the air game. Just need it to be the case for the entire game and that is not happening. The Steelers do have the postseason experience. Actually when they were having success, Kansas City wasn't. That being said, I would be shocked if the Steelers won at Arrowhead again with only 6 fields goals for 18 points total. Really it won't be easy making it to Kansas City anyway, Buffalo and Baltimore are playing some awesome football. The Bills won 13 games, they got unlucky against Arizona but they got lucky against the Rams. So it evened out. Baltimore is on a 5-game winning streak, and what's crazy is if they had escaped Pittsburgh with a win, they could've won another division title. The Ravens didn't really play anyone, but, unlike the Steelers, they actually rout the bad competition. So whatever happens with Baltimore won't be a surprise. Buffalo, meanwhile blew out each of their final six opponents. Rather they won by double digits. They're more impressive than Baltimore because they won a Week 17, all but meaningless game, against a 10-win team that was in a win-and-in situation. 56-26 in a lame duck week of football is very nice. The weather in Orchard Park was fair enough so no excuse for Miami

WTG, DeVonta! All that's left for Bama is to get that QB that is good enough to win a Heisman

At the very least, JTMacc, I almost always agree with your predictions and thought and everything else. There's so much there to validate it. I hate to disagree with you here, but I have to. However, just one part of your post: the word "should" as it relates to what Baltimore might do. The Baltimore Ravens could terrify all the opponents in both conferences let alone the AFC. They should terrify Buffalo, Indianapolis, and Cleveland. Kansas City might be tough because of what they have done to opponents within the same game that the Chiefs were getting pounded. Pittsburgh isn't afraid of anybody in their division. Actually, they all but undefeated in the postseason against teams in their own division. Tennessee is like Kansas City, except their strength is on offense (the Chiefs is on defense). Here's why I like the Ravens this time: I agree that they were clicking at the right time, and they are the most complete team in the league. I'm thinking back to a couple of scenarios. The 2004 Steelers & 2005 Colts were the best teams in the AFC but they both got knocked off by the eventual champions (well Pittsburgh was better in terms of record, I always thought the 2004 Patriots were better). Add a year: the 2005 Steelers & 2006 Colts were "invisible" and won four playoff games to win the title that they missed out on a year earlier. Flash forward to the 2011-2012 Ravens. Baltimore was super scary in 2011 and would've won if Evans made one more catch at a better time (or if Tucker was present a year earlier). The Ravens took a step back in 2012 but won four games for the title. Earlier in the year they got smacked by Denver and a guy that had their number in Manning. Eventually they got him in the postseason (after beating the Colts before then). Peyton almost won again, but fell short in OT. I see that this year. 2019 Ravens were unstoppable but lost to Tennessee. 2020 Ravens are invisible, but like they avenged their 2011 defeat, I think they can against the Titans. After possibly giving Pittsburgh their second postseason division loss they'll finally beat a Mahomes-led Chiefs before their trip to Tampa. Tampa Bay has the defense to stop Lamar but they have Brady who's afraid of Baltimore. Ravens can win, but not by destroying them I don't think. Packers have Aaron Rodgers, who hasn't lost to Baltimore and can roll against the Ravens or anybody in the AFC. Green Bay's defense is questionable. New Orleans would be the only other team I could see knock off Baltimore, but I don't know/think they'll get there. Everyone else in the NFC is totally getting destroyed by the Ravens if they emerge from the AFC. We pretty much agree RE: Giants, Cowboys, Eagles, and Washington. New York has to win more. Though they did lose Barkley. Philly can't play for a tie, and they probably could've won against Baltimore or Cleveland. They all of a sudden, they could've played for the NFC East. The Cowboys. Finally, Washington is a great story, and while I couldn't care less for its owner, they have leaders in Alex Smith and Ron Rivera, both of whom fought adversity. They'll probably get killed in front of everybody but I don't see them quitting until 3 zeros show up post 4th quarter. Didn't agree with the tanking/resting comparison as it relates to Pittsburgh or Kansas City, but other than that, I'm happy to see Washington get there this year

Well, the news of the Browns finally making the playoffs came at a cost: No Kevin Stefanski for now