I Miss Football Season

Moving Over.....

2011-09-06T08:29:00.003-06:00

I think it makes sense to just make this an off-season blog, so I'll just focus on my predictions blog at mikeyscrystalball.blogspot.com. You can also read my work on the New York Giants blog, Big Blue View. Meanwhile, I'll see you guys in February. Happy Football Season!

PS

2011-09-02T08:25:00.001-06:00

I don't miss football season anymore

One Week

2011-09-01T08:55:00.000-06:00

From today is the start of the NFL season. I'll start posting my predictions over at mikeyscrystalball.blogspot.com
See you there!

Vick

2011-08-31T10:29:00.002-06:00

Michael Vick signed a 6 year, $100 million deal this week. That's amazing considering that he's in his third season back from prison, and at the start of last year he was still the backup. Then he appeared to have a 5th gear on the field, and he led the Eagles to 59 points in a Monday nighter against the Redskins. A week or two later, he led one of the most remarkable comebacks ever, leading the Eagles back from down 31-10 to beat the Giants 38-31. I say that gritting my teeth as a Giants fan. But anyway, Vick is only 31 and still in incredible shape, and yet that still doesn't prevent us from asking, "is he worth it?" I think considering what he means to the Eagles, he is worth it. But he's also an injury risk, and six years is a long time in football terms.

Nine Days

2011-08-30T09:29:00.001-06:00

That's how many days until the 2011 season kicks off. Is it just me, or is it surreal that it's really starting?

Let's Hope

2011-08-29T08:29:00.002-06:00

...that all of you on the east coast are safe and that your damage from the hurricane/tropical storm is minimal. Even as I write that I know that's not the case, because some photos and video I've seen have shown some really scary stills and footage. As is usually the case, we turn to sports as a way to get away, but also because it's important to try to get back to feeling normal, and to give us something to look forward to. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys on the coast, though.

Do I Live Under a Rock?

2011-08-26T10:25:00.002-06:00

Sometimes I feel that way....when did Kerry Collins un-retire and how did he suddenly go and sign with the Titans' biggest rival, Indianapolis? Yikes. Of course, he's an insurance policy for Peyton Manning, but a big one now that Manning has neck issues.

Week 3

2011-08-25T09:51:00.000-06:00

We are in Week 3 of the preseason now.....which means in one week, the Week 4 preseason games will be played. That means that in two weeks, the NFL regular season kicks off. Yeah baby!

Miami

2011-08-23T09:44:00.001-06:00

I just saw this on Yahoo Sports today, and I had a few thoughts--first, the Dolphins have an already uphill climb because of having to play a quarter of their schedule against the Pats and Jets. Two, Reggie Bush and Daniel Thomas will not make up for the losses of Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams. And Chad Henne is really still the QB? I hope Sparano brushes up his resume.

Less than Three Weeks

2011-08-22T10:07:00.002-06:00

Actually it's less than three weeks until the first football Sunday, but the regular season kicks off on September 8, with Packers/Saints on a Thursday night. That's in 17 days, folks. So with the NFL offseason being mostly about the labor deal or lack thereof, suddenly we are almost to the end of that offseason and the start of what really matters--NFL football.

Who is Number One?

2011-08-19T08:15:00.001-06:00

Once again there is controversy in fantasy football land....who do you pick #1 this year? Adrian Peterson, always awesome? Chris Johnson, after a bumpy 2010? Arian Foster, who skyrockted last year? Aaron Rodgers or Drew Brees or Tom Brady? Maybe not, but I'd argue about Rodgers before any other QB. What do you think?

18 Games is Too Much

2011-08-18T07:42:00.003-06:00

Some NFL owners, particularly the ones in cold-weather markets, are pushing back on the 18-game schedule that most owners eventually want. Mainly because it's freaking cold in January in most of the country, and really freaking cold in about a third of NFL markets with outdoor stadiums. Seriously now....16 games is just right. There really is no need to extend that, especially making more games happen in January which is probably the coldest day on the calendar. We fans love the game, but please....don't do this. It will water down the season and there will be more injuries and more fans having to endure frigid temps at games.

Hey, Where's Favre?

2011-08-17T09:29:00.002-06:00

About this time of year, the Favre watch usually begins. I know there was talk about him signing with the Eagles before the Eagles signed Vince Young, but nothing since. Could it be that he is staying retired this time? I don't believe that for a second. Maybe he'll wait until someone gets hurt, maybe he'll sign with the Browns since he's already tutoring Colt McCoy for Mike Holmgren. But trust me, that dude will be in uniform at some point in 2011.

Way Too Early Picks

2011-08-16T08:41:00.002-06:00

Here are my way too early picks for the upcoming NFL season for the postseason's division winners:

NFC East: Eagles (ARGH)
NFC North: Packers
NFC South: Saints
NFC West: Rams

AFC East: Patriots
AFC Central: Ravens
AFC South: Texans
AFC West: Chargers

Culpepper?

2011-08-15T07:16:00.002-06:00

Two things struck me when I read that the Niners were bringing in Daunte Culpepper--1) that he's only 34 years old and 2) that Alex Smith is still the starter in SF. I feel like every year we read that this could finally be the year Smith breaks out, but one of these years the Niners will realize that you simply cannot polish a turd any longer.

The Preseason

2011-08-12T08:30:00.002-06:00

has started! We are underway, after several months of a black cloud hanging over the NFL. And hey, we are going to have labor peace (hopefully) for 10 years now. I cannot wait to watch some games.

Smith to Eagles?

2011-08-11T08:19:00.002-06:00

As a Giants fan, I was furious that Steve Smith signed with the hated rival Eagles last night. Smith was a free agent, and was dealing with a knee injury, but the Giants had every intention of trying to sign him. I am not sure what went wrong, but it did. Shame on the Giants for letting Smith go. Shame on Smith for spitefully signing with Philly. And shame on the Eagles for swooping in (no pun intended) to grab Smith. I hate the Eagles now more than ever.

Who is Ready?

2011-08-10T10:57:00.001-06:00

For some real football games? They start tomorrow, with five games on the slate. Okay, they are preseason game, but hey--it's football!

Derrick Mason

2011-08-08T07:38:00.002-06:00

37-year-old Derrick Mason signed with the Jets the other day, and good for him that he did that to try and win a ring--despite the fact that the Ravens have a good chance for that as well. But it's good to see Mason continuing a long and very steady career that began with Tennessee in 1997. He has been one of the most reliable receivers in the NFL since then. And so, we salute you, Mr. Mason.

Thoughts and Prayers....

2011-08-05T08:09:00.001-06:00

To the Eagles' Mike Patterson, who had a seizure on the field this week and may require brain surgery. It's times like this that we're reminded a) how dangerous the game can be, and b) that it's still just a game and a blip on the radar of life.

Marshall Faulk

2011-08-04T13:54:00.002-06:00

Marshall Faulk will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday, and it is well-deserved. Faulk may be the greatest combination running back/pass-catcher ever, and from everything you hear, he was a terrific teammate as well. Kudos to Mr. Faulk.

Eagles Not Messing Around

2011-08-03T08:22:00.001-06:00

They got the free agent prize of Nnamdi, and just signed Ronnie Brown. Every time I turn around, they are making another splash. Granted, I am a Giants fan, so this angers me every time I see something. One of the Eagles made reference to his team as the "Miami Heat" of the NFL....ha! I hope the Eagles choke in big games like the Heat did. I also hope the Giants can find a way to finally beat them.

Randy Moss

2011-08-02T08:57:00.002-06:00

Wow, who saw that coming? After being let go by the Patriots and Vikings last season, Randy Moss was a shell of his former self with the Titans, who were themselves fledgling last year in the second half. But was he done? Did anyone expect him to retire? I didn't, but I sure do respect the guy's playing career. That 2007 season will probably stand forever as the best season for a receiver....even better than the king himself, Jerry Rice.

Monday Headlines

2011-08-01T06:21:00.002-06:00

The big news, of course, is that Peyton Manning signed a huge contract extension. So the Colts must not be too concerned about Manning's neck injury.....Brandon Marshall's press conference yesterday was really painful to watch, but probably way more painful for him to give...Plaxico signed with the Jets, not the other team in green, but the Eagles got Asomugha....Frank Gore will report to Niners camp today...Cedric Benson re-signed with the Bengals...the Giants are bringing back David Carr to back up Eli Manning....and Albert Haynesworth passed his physical. Welcome back to real football talk, folks!

Faith Hill

2011-07-29T07:53:00.001-06:00

Let's talk about how ridiculous that NBC Sunday Night Football theme song is with Faith Hill. It's a freaking Joan Jett cover, and it's getting old!!! I hope they don't use it again this season.
But hey, there's real football to talk about. Much free agency will happen today.....and how about Kevin Kolb getting that incredible sum of money from the Cards?

Moves, Moves, Moves

2011-07-27T10:52:00.002-06:00

It's really hard to keep up with all of the moves in the NFL--it's sort of like machine gun fire. But here are a few today....

Matt Hasselbeck is apparently headed to Tennessee....the Jets have re-signed Santonio Holmes...Tarvaris Jackson has signed with the Seahawks....and the defense-minded Ravens have cut three players from their offense--Todd Heap, Willis McGahee, and Derrick Mason. Stay tuned, it's gonna continue like this for another week at least. And I love it.

A Week Like No Other

2011-07-26T09:01:00.000-06:00

So the lockout is finally over, and this week and next will be like no two weeks the NFL has ever seen. A fast and furious free agent period will begin and then training camps open and preseason games begin August 11. Wow. I'm still pissed that they let it go on this long, but I'm not gonna lie--I love football and am so happy we will have a full 2011 season. Welcome back guys!

Today Is Supposedly The Day

2011-07-25T09:01:00.003-06:00

I just read breaking news that the players have agreed to the new CBA and that voting later today is a "formality." Of course, I will believe it when I see it, especially with how we've been strung along. But it looks like we can finally start talking actual football, and when that happens, things will start to fall into place with how the season is shaping up. Man, this is going to be a fast and fun ride!

Ridiculous

2011-07-22T09:34:00.002-06:00

Fans are now starting to become enraged. I am one of those fans. This is freaking BS to the Nth degree. Stop saying a deal is imminent if there is no deal imminent! It's that simple. I fear that the owners could pull the deal back and we could be back to square one, I really do.

I Have a Funny Feeling

2011-07-21T08:36:00.002-06:00

That the lockout is going to end today. I can smell it. The owners appear to be ready to cast their vote on the new CBA today while players also appear that they will vote today, a day after they were supposed to. It will be even more dramatic if both sides vote (and hopefully vote yes) today, won't it? And then all hell will break loose over the next week or two as camps get rolling and free agency jumps into abbreviated full swing. Let's hope that all happens.

Players Expected To Review CBA Today

2011-07-20T07:46:00.000-06:00

Players are supposedly going to review the new CBA today, and owners are expected to review it tomorrow and possibly ratify it. Folks, we are seriously almost there.

Are We There Yet?

2011-07-18T08:50:00.000-06:00

No, we're not.

Deal Could Really Be Done Soon

2011-07-15T09:25:00.001-06:00

All signs have been positive in the past 24 hours. Here is the latest on the labor talks, which resume today.

Argh

2011-07-14T08:56:00.002-06:00

Now, reports are negative again, with players posturing to try and get the owners to cave in on some demands. This is getting ridiculous. Again.

Players Want Deal

2011-07-13T09:32:00.001-06:00

Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, and Drew Brees--three of the highest profile players in the NFL, maybe THE three highest, have said in a statement that it's time to get a deal done. They and the owners appear to have agreed in principle on everything but a rookie wage scale, so that coupled with the fact that Jerry Jones, John Mara and Robert Kraft have joined DeMaurice Smith and attorneys for both sides, is a sliver of good news in the middle of what has been, frankly, a poop sandwich.

More Good News

2011-07-12T10:11:00.002-06:00

The lockout is rumored to be at a possible end next week....here is the latest as reported on Yahoo Sports. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to watch the all-star game. Of course, we'll send you any NFL news as it comes in.

Someday

2011-07-11T08:16:00.000-06:00

We will have an NFL labor agreement. But today, we still do not.

Lulling To Sleep

2011-07-08T05:27:00.003-06:00

Is anyone else being put to sleep by the lack of progress on the NFL labor front? I realize there is a lot to negotiate and agree upon, but come on guys....this is getting ridiculous. Wake me up when there is a deal...

Keep Checking

2011-07-07T06:22:00.002-06:00

I am going to keep checking sports sites like Yahoo for the "Breaking News" tab about the lockout situation...hopefully with good breaking news. We know it's coming soon, at least we hope upon hope that it is.

Lawyers

2011-07-06T10:04:00.003-06:00

The meetings yesterday and today are between attorneys only, not with player or owner reps or the commissioner. But that's not totally bad. Word has it that they are drafting up contract language and that the two sides will reconvene in New York tomorrow and Friday to try and get this thing finalized and signed. To which I say, let's freaking do this already!

Hurry Up and Wait....

2011-07-05T08:34:00.001-06:00

There is no news at the moment for the NFL lockout to be lifted. But rest assured, they are meeting....so there's that. Let's hope we can get a resolution this week and then have a free agent frenzy to follow.

At the Table....

2011-07-01T07:24:00.001-06:00

as we speak, players and owners are still trying to hammer out a deal. It appears now that that deal will not be struck before this weekend, and possibly not for a few more weeks at the earliest. Blah!!!!

Will Confetti Fly with Fireworks?

2011-06-30T07:08:00.002-06:00

I just read an extremely encouraging article on Yahoo Sports, where, frankly, I get most of my sports news.....no offense to ESPN or others, but Yahoo has the best comprehensive sports coverage in general. Anyway, Dan Wetzel wrote this encouraging piece that the lockout may end very soon, and who are we to doubt that? We're all on the edge of our collective seat anyway, and if we're talked off that seat this holiday weekend, July will be a football-crazed month, as will the six months that follow as we all celebrate the return of NFL football. Of course, we have to knock wood, cross our fingers and just generally hope that the deal really does get done soon.

Goodell and Smith on Same Page, Plane?

2011-06-29T08:54:00.002-06:00

Well, hey, at least they are not hating on each other anymore, but met privately yesterday and flew to Florida together to speak at the rookie symposium. Today they are flying back to Minnesota together to resume talks. It's somewhat progress, but the bottom line is this--a deal is still not done.

Meetings Underway?

2011-06-28T09:34:00.002-06:00

Apparently owners and players are meeting today in Minneapolis and there are encouraging signs that a deal may be done....well, what else can they say as the start of training camps loom in a little over three weeks? But that's reality, the fact that the clock is suddenly ticking really fast.

Okay, Still No Deal

2011-06-27T07:27:00.002-06:00

I'm back from vacation, and unfortunately there is no deal yet in the NFL labor dispute. There is encouragement, however, because the players and owners seem to be meeting almost daily, and keep saying they are optimistic about a deal getting done very soon, possibly within the next 2 weeks. Let's hope so.

Here's Hoping.....

2011-06-17T08:46:00.001-06:00

I'm out of the office all next week. Let's hope that by the time I return, a deal is in place for the NFL to resume operations and get ready for the 2011 season.

Deal or No Deal?

2011-06-16T06:42:00.001-06:00

I keep hearing reports that the two sides in the labor dispute are close to a deal, but not that close. They all know the start of training camp is approaching, or would be approaching. But now they are all trying to skirt more court dates in favor of reaching an agreement the old-fashioned way--by meeting, and meeting a lot. Let's hope they keep doing so.

Did I Hear That Correctly?

2011-06-15T07:43:00.002-06:00

I read this morning that a new collective bargaining deal may be announced soon, or at least the framework may be in place by July 4 weekend. I'm trying to be cautiously optimistic here, but I do have a good feeling about this, so let's hope my feeling is correct and warranted.

Starting to Really Feel It

2011-06-14T06:38:00.002-06:00

In addition to businesses that are near NFL training camp sites and then maybe near NFL stadiums, one entity that is taking a hit right now are NFL preseason and fantasy football magazines. This is the time of year when I'm reading said mags, trying to get a feel for who I might draft in August or early September. But now there is a big question mark over all of that, and it's incredibly frustrating.

We Don't Need No Stinkin' False Alarms

2011-06-10T08:20:00.001-06:00

As if we weren't all apprehensive enough about the NFL labor situation, we sure as heck don't need someone falsely reporting that the lockout is coming to an end, do we? But that's what happened this week. UGH. I hope we have truthfully good news to report soon.

More Talks

2011-06-09T07:53:00.002-06:00

The players and owners met again yesterday and are showing signs that at the very least they are feeling pressured by the calendar to get a deal done. When it comes down to money being lost, you can bet that these sides will get serious and they appear to be doing that now. Man, this sucks....don't tease me with hope, just get a deal done!

More Talks?

2011-06-08T09:25:00.002-06:00

Apparently the owners and players are working toward a deal, but were trying to keep their negotiations secret again. Judge Kermit Bye said the two sides would not like his decision on the lockout, which scares me, but he also encouraged them to just keep trying to come to an agreement either way. Come on guys....don't screw this up.

Plaxico's Hat

2011-06-07T08:07:00.001-06:00

I'm a Giants fan through and through, and while I wish Plaxico Burress the best if he doesn't rejoint the G-men, the one thing I don't want to see if him in an Eagles uniform. And yet that's all I keep hearing, that he's at the top of their list, or that they are at the top of his list. I know he was an Eagle-killer in blue, so I get why the Eagles would want Plax. But please, let him go to, say, the Raiders or Texans. Of course, he didn't ease my mind by wearing a Phillies hat yesterday upon his release from prison. Great.

Deal Coming Soon?

2011-06-06T06:57:00.002-06:00

All signs were encouraging last Friday as arguments were heard in court about the lockout. Not necessarily about the lockout, but the signs coming from the players and owners who got together on their own, pretty much secretly, to try and begin to hammer out a deal. Just as many of us suspected, there is suddenly a sense of urgency as the calendar turned from May to June. We'll see what happens, but this is at least a bit encouraging.

Let's Get a Deal Done

2011-06-03T08:27:00.001-06:00

Hopefully today will mark another step forward, along with the "secret" talks that took place this week in Chicago. We will keep you posted....

Players Working?

2011-06-02T06:30:00.003-06:00

But not what you'd think. Here is an article with a link to more articles about players finding other employment or just things to do to pass the time while they are locked out. I read yesterday that Cris Collinsworth is coaching receivers at his kid's high school and he made a comment about half the season being missed. Yikes. I hope that isn't true. Meanwhile, tomorrow we have a ruling on the appeal, so let's see what happens.

This Time of Year....

2011-05-31T07:04:00.003-06:00

I am usually buying my first fantasy football publication. But there are no mags that I know of publishing now, because of the uncertainty surrounding the NFL. I hope the players and owners are listening to the sound of footsteps belonging to their biggest nightmares--apathy, and boycotting.

It's Memorial Day Weekend, Do You Know Where Your NFL Season Is?

2011-05-27T06:19:00.002-06:00

Folks, I am growing weary of the lockout situation as I know you are. But once we have a ruling on the lockout by the appeals court next Friday, we should start to see things move along, even if they continue to move slower than we would like. I think that no matter what happens in court, both sides realize that they may have to come to the table out of court in order to get a deal done. I'm starting to see signs of that, especially on the players' side, because they are not receiving paychecks. Let's hope this can be put behind us soon, because it's getting old really fast.

Great Article

2011-05-26T08:12:00.002-06:00

I often reference Yahoo Sports and for good reason--they have some of the best sports coverage out there. This article by Les Carpenter gives great info on both sides and how both sides are to blame, and in particular how DeMaurice Smith and his union's de-certification strategy might blow up in his face and the collective face of every NFL player.

Amicus Brief Filed

2011-05-25T08:40:00.002-06:00

Those who will be affected by the loss of NFL games this season filed an amicus brief yesterday, trying to speed up the process and claim that a lack of games will affect their businesses. Politicians and business owners filed the brief in Minneapolis federal court, and while it's not clear if it will be taken seriously, it should be.

More Legal Stuff....

2011-05-24T10:08:00.002-06:00

But I think this is good. A federal magistrate has given the NFL a deadline of June 6 rather than July 6 on when they can reply to the players' anti-trust lawsuit. Hopefully this means that things will speed along quicker, because I think the courts do not want the NFL to alienate its fans too much and have the whole multi-billion dollar industry blow up in their faces. We'll see.

B-L-A-H

2011-05-23T07:10:00.001-06:00

I am considering taking a break from this blog for a bit, or at least not post anything unless there is real news to post regarding the lockout and labor dispute in general. B-L-A-H.

The Agony Drags On.....

2011-05-20T09:39:00.001-06:00

Do any of you feel like no games will be missed this NFL season? I'm still of the belief that no regular season games will, but possibly two or more preseason contests. We'll see though. I keep thinking about the fact that the NHL missed an entire season, so why not the NFL? Shudder the thought.

This is Getting Monotonous

2011-05-19T09:02:00.001-06:00

No end in sight for the lockout, but here is an interesting read courtesy of Michael Silver on Yahoo Sports about why he thinks all hope is not lost, particularly on the players' side.

Business as Usual, Huh?

2011-05-18T09:32:00.002-06:00

If you believe everything you read, all is hunky dory in NFL land. What else would you expect coaches to say? But here is some proof that our buddies like Billy B. are going about their business as if training camp were going to happen on time. I guess I understand that sentiment, but it's also hard to ignore reality. The first appeals hearing is June 3, still more than two weeks out, and the "start" of training camp is either threatened or likely to be pushed back or eliminated.

Still Talking.....

2011-05-17T08:50:00.001-06:00

I guess the players and owners are still "mediating," meanwhile the appeals court ruled in favor of keeping the lockout in place until the next court hearing on June 3. I'm not sure if these talks will yield anything, but I guess it's better than having them not talking at all.

More Court Stuff

2011-05-16T07:03:00.002-06:00

Now the players are seeking to have that $4 million treasure chest of money from the networks for next season (the contingency stash) put in escrow until the legal battle is over. That's only fair, in my opinion, because I thought that ruling was supposed to be in favor of the players in the first place? This thing continues to just get uglier, doesn't it?

Still Talking Favre

2011-05-12T09:35:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you, but the fact that there is a headline about Brett Favre staying retired can mean only two things--that there isn't much NFL news to report, or that it's a possibility that Favre may shun retirement for about the twelfth time and play again in 2011, if there is a season. Of course, it's probably the former rather than the latter, but even though Favre filed retirement papers, you just never know with this guy, do you?

Romo Misses US Open Cut

2011-05-10T08:46:00.002-06:00

Cowboys' QB Tony Romo didn't make the cut to qualify for the US Open in golf, but it's still pretty impressive that he's good enough to hang with that company. I mean, I'm willing to be that no on on the tour could QB the Cowboys, or any NFL team. But take a look at the photo in this article...does it look like Romo has had a few too many cheeseburgers during the lockout?

Randy Moss Still Valuable?

2011-05-09T08:03:00.002-06:00

The Titans said that they are not likely to re-sign WR Randy Moss, who played for the Titans as his third NFL team in one season last year. Does that surprise anyone, especially with the Titans sporting a new head coach for the first time in almost two decades? But where will Moss wind up, and is he still valuable as an NFL player at all?

How Pissed Are You?

2011-05-06T09:17:00.002-06:00

I wanna know, how pissed are you at the players and owners that they can't come to an agreement on how to split up $9 billion? I'm going from bummed out to pissed off as each day goes by. Let me know how you feel!

Seriously....

2011-05-05T09:05:00.003-06:00

There is nothing going on right now. Some teams' players are organizing workouts, and Chris Simms was acquitted on DUI charges for smoking weed and driving. But otherwise it's quiet and it's going to get quieter before it gets louder again in the NFL.

Blah

2011-05-04T07:11:00.003-06:00

I'm getting tired of bad news with the NFL. The day of the hearing on the owners' appeal will be June 3, the actual ruling may not come down until July. Why does this news suck? Because we're finally seeing how this can all affect actual games, or, the cancellation of actual games. Hopefully someone in the courts will sense the urgency of the situation, but let's face it--they probably will have some bigger or more important fish to fry.

Players Working Out

2011-05-03T11:08:00.002-06:00

Even though players cannot work out at team facilities, they are making due and working out on their own, and that makes me happy. Maybe they can start their own league.

And then there is this. A great article by Steve Kelley about not understanding locking the players out. I have to be honest, I'm kind of on the players' side too. This is so stupid, and it's dragging on into June or July now, which threatens at least preseason games and at the very least, cancels mini-camps and threatens the start of training camp. At worst, regular season games will be affected. And that blows.

Draft is Done

2011-05-02T06:20:00.002-06:00

Months of mock drafts, speculation and draftnik speak amid a very large and very real labor rift in the NFL, and now it's over. The draft is over and now the NFL must figure out where it goes from here. That's really a great question, and one that not many people, if any, can answer. The short answer, though, is that nothing will happen for 4-6 weeks, when the appeal by the owners of judge Nelson's ruling to lift the lockout is heard. That's step one, and then what? If they win, the players appeal? This could go on for months, which of course threatens the fabric of the 2011 season and the game as we know it. It's more likely that a deal is struck before the season starts, but will any games be missed or moved, and will preseason games be missed. I am going with the latter, but it also wouldn't surprise me if the labor dispute spills into September. Let's hope I'm wrong, but will they shut the whole season down the way the NHL did a few years ago? I highly, highly doubt it.

Do you care?

2011-04-29T07:54:00.002-06:00

I just heard Adam Schefter on Mike & Mike say how he thought the mood at the NFL draft was somber, and that he'll be curious to see how the ratings play out, because fans are down on the NFL and the whole labor mess. I know that I was saying to enjoy the draft this week, but I have to be honest....I didn't care so much. It's hard to get excited when you don't know if and when the 2011 NFL season will start. I pretty much watched my Giants pick CB Prince Amukamara, a big surprise that he fell that far, I glanced at who picked who in the earlier rounds, and then I watched other stuff we had on DVR. Of course, I'll watch tonight and tomorrow, partially because I have to cover the Giants' picks for Big Blue View. But otherwise, my interest is definitely not what it usually is. How about you?

Draft is Tonight!

2011-04-28T08:15:00.002-06:00

So yesterday judge Susan Nelson denied the NFL owners' appeal of her decision to lift the lockout, and now there is more chaos and limbo, because what rules now govern the league? I still have no idea what this all means and I'm not sure anyone does. But one thing I do know is that the NFL draft begins tonight! So let's forget about labor issues for a few days while talking about real football issues.

NFL in Weird Limbo

2011-04-27T08:49:00.002-06:00

So on Monday federal judge Susan Nelson granted the players' request to lift the lockout. However, the owners appealed and now there is a cloud of limbo hanging over the NFL. A handful of players reported to team headquarters yesterday, but most of them were turned away. The Giants allowed Chris Canty to work out, and also let Mario Manningham and Brandon Jacobs in to talk to coaches. But the gym was later shuttered, and now some teams have shut their doors entirely again. Basically, the owners wanted a stay of the lockout while the appeal is being considered. But the players think this is wrong, and they not only want doors opened, they want 25% of their annual pay while being locked out. Ballsy, yes, but the players obviously feel like they have an ally in Judge Nelson. Your guess is as good as mine where this goes next.

Weirdness Engulfs NFL

2011-04-26T10:17:00.001-06:00

Susan Nelson lifted the lockout yesterday, but the NFL owners are going to appeal the ruling. So players have begun to show up, but are not allowed to work out yet. Nelson said she expected players to be treated with respect, but also that they should not work out until the rest of the court battles have been decided. Just weird.

Ruling Due Today

2011-04-25T08:46:00.003-06:00

Not that it will make a bit of difference, but judge Susan Nelson will rule today on whether or not to lift the NFL owners' lockout of the players. Whichever side loses this will appeal it, meaning more waiting for yet another court hearing. In other words, pack a lunch. And try to enjoy the NFL draft later this week.

More Delays

2011-04-22T08:10:00.002-06:00

So now talks are not set to resume until May 16....but the lockout ruling will be on Monday. Of course, no matter which way that goes, there could be a stay and an appeal in court. Do you get where this is going? Yep, into limbo. More and more limbo, and May 16 suddenly seems dangerously close to training camps, which usually begin to open toward the end of July. Yikes.

Players Cracking?

2011-04-21T09:16:00.003-06:00

This is interesting. An article in Yahoo Sports talks about how players are cracking in the labor talks. Namely, the lower income players are not feeling the whole "fight" thing with guys like Tom Brady and Drew Brees representing them. So this could end sooner than we all thought...and I don't care how it happens, I just want it to happen.

If We Have Football......

2011-04-20T09:17:00.002-06:00

The NFL released its 2011 schedule yesterday, and I still don't feel quite right, and still can't get excited about it. The matchups look tantalizing and juicy, yet there is no guarantee of a season as the player and owners still battle things out in court. But if they do resolve things, as many believe they will far before opening day in September, the first week slates some killer matchups.

The first one is the Thursday night opener between the defending champs and the champs from the year before--Green Bay vs. New Orleans. The Giants travel to Washington to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of 9/11; and the Cowboys play the Jets in the Sunday nighter. You've also got Atlanta vs. Chicago and Baltimore vs. Pittsburgh, and then on Monday night there is another doubleheader--New England at Miami and Oakland at Denver. I have to ask--why do the Raiders ALWAYS play on that first Monday night? It's getting annoying.

We'll have more on the prospective matchups over the next week or so, but for now they remain prospective.

"Schedule" Coming Soon

2011-04-19T09:22:00.003-06:00

The NFL "schedule" is reportedly being released today, but I had to use quotation marks due to the fact that we don't know if and when the season will begin. Good luck selling tickets, NFL....we're all watching your labor negotiations, and the futile nature of them right now. But hey, you never know. And it's always fun to review the schedule anyway.

Talks To Resume Tuesday

2011-04-18T07:55:00.001-06:00

I have one word for you players and owners: GETTHEDAMNTHINGDONE. This is getting ridiculous.

No Word

2011-04-15T09:13:00.001-06:00

So the two sides are talking in federal court with a mediator, but are not allowed to tell us what's going on. But it seemed like both sides emerged somewhat pleased with the progress, and they will talk again today some more. I'm not sure why, but suddenly I have some renewed optimism. Let's hope that hunch is justified.

Let the Talks Begin....Again

2011-04-14T06:34:00.002-06:00

Federal judge Susan Nelson has "recommended" that the NFL players and owners make nice and return to the negotiating table, this time in front of a mediator. That is to begin today in Minneapolis, and hopefully progress will be made this time around. As the NFL draft approaches in two weeks, everyone is nervous that after that there will be no free agent signings or any other team activity for quite a while, and that's an understandable consensus. So let's go, guys...get it done!

Bad Vibe

2011-04-12T08:36:00.001-06:00

I keep hearing and reading things about the players and owners being bitchy and nit-picky and taking little jabs in the media. That's not good. It's way too much like the democrats and republicans (and of course the tea party) fighting over the budget. Nyaah nyaah nyaah nyaah nyaah, that's what it sounds like....like children. I just have a bad feeling about this and want it to go away. Hopefully judge Nelson's forced mediation will be painless and yield some sort of progress, though.

Judge on Our Side

2011-04-11T07:20:00.002-06:00

Federal judge Susan Nelson must be a football fan. That's because she told the NFL players and owners that she was forcing them to mediate and would let them know early this week where those mediation sessions would be--in DC, where the owners want them to be, or in Minneapolis/St. Paul, where Nelson's courtroom is and where the players want them to be. Clearly, Susan Nelson is on the side of the side that should matter most--the fans.

This is Getting Ridiculous

2011-04-08T08:55:00.002-06:00

The players and owners can't agree on where and when to meet and whether or not to adhere to any part of each others' requests. I don't see this getting resolved any time soon, and I get the feeling that both sides are willing to let the 2011 season slip away. Damn.

Judge Not Taking Crap

2011-04-07T08:51:00.003-06:00

A federal judge in Minnesota, Susan Richard Nelson, is not taking any crap from the owners or players, especially the owners. She heard arguments from attorneys for both sides yesterday in the case about whether or not the players were able to decertify their union. She also told both sides she may want them to just go back to the bargaining table with her presiding over those talks. That's what we as fans like to hear, but the owners are shaking in their boots, probably because they have something to hide (i.e. their books?). It's worth noting that Nelson's take-no-bullshit approach mirrors President Obama's feeling about the fact that politics may possibly force a government shutdown--kind of like, "Let's stop messing around and get a deal done." Amen to that.

Ooh, This Isn't Good

2011-04-05T06:47:00.003-06:00

I just read on Yahoo Sports that the players wanted to meet with the owners last Monday and spend a few days working things out, but the owners refused. They want the players to unionize again and do not want to negotiate with a de-certified union. I guess the courts will decide on whether or not to lift the lockout, but either way it seems like both sides are being stubborn, and the owners are being more stubborn. Yikes.

Wednesday is a Big Day

2011-04-04T06:58:00.003-06:00

This coming Wednesday, federal judge Susan Richard Nelson will preside over a case that plots NFL players such as Tom Brady and Peyton Manning against NFL owners, trying to block the lockout the owners imposed a few weeks ago when the NFL players' union de-certified. So here we go. This is the first real test and gauge we'll have as to whether or not football will be played in 2011. Word is Nelson is tough and also has a knack for making two sides come together, and also that she won't be fazed by the bright lights this case is sure to produce. Let's hope so!

Will We Have Football?

2011-04-01T10:07:00.002-06:00

What is your gut feeling about this? Will we have NFL football in September, or not? I think we will, because there is too much at stake not to. Here is an article I did on This or That.com about the lingering issues.

Draft is Coming....Do You Care?

2011-03-31T09:32:00.003-06:00

For hardcore NFL fans, the draft is a big day. But with the storm we're in right now thanks to a horrible labor dispute, there are black clouds cast on next month's draft as well. For one, players are trying to tell the draftees that they should not attend said draft. Then, of course, is the general uncertainty of the 2011 season, which is practically rendering the draft a moot point. Who will each team draft, and then will they be able to sign those players? The answer to the latter is no, they won't--not without a new collective bargaining agreement in place. Which raises the biggest question of all about the upcoming draft--Do you care? I like watching the draft as much as the average NFL fan does, but I'm really indifferent about the NFL right now as a whole. The labor mess just has me angry, annoyed and apathetic. How about you?

Something to Smile About

2011-03-30T07:51:00.002-06:00

Again we're going to detract from the sport of football, and talk about an NBA game. I lived in Cleveland for 11 years and became fans of the Cavs, Browns and Indians. Since I never really rooted for an NBA team growing up in New York, I took to the Cavs in the '90's when they were awesome--the Brad Daugherty/Mark Price/Larry Nance days. But I moved away right after LeBron James was drafted, then still followed the team and their ascent to awesomeness. Then I saw what LeBron did to the city of Cleveland, leaving them for the Miami Heat as a free agent. But James came home on December 2, 2010 and his Heat crushed the Cavs in their first meeting since James bolted. Last night the Cavs, the city of Cleveland and especially Cavs' owner Dan Gilbert, exacted revenge in Cleveland, beating the Heat 102-90. It was the Cavs' most lopside win (of only 15 of them!) this season, and one of the franchises' best wins ever.

Don't Look Now....

2011-03-29T08:58:00.002-06:00

but baseball season starts this Thursday! Hey, NFL.....I know that some retired players, including Priest Holmes, have filed suit against you in relation to the lockout, but for the most part, we sports fans don't care this week...because MLB baseball opens their season! So for the moment, NFL....screw you!

Hard to Get Excited

2011-03-28T06:21:00.003-06:00

The more I peruse the sports pages on the Web for football-related news, the more annoyed I get. There are a few tidbits--Sean Payton talking about whether or not the team will re-sign Reggie Bush, plenty of draft talk, Eli Manning and his wife having their first child. But mostly, we're still all under a big black cloud that is the NFL labor rift. And for me, a hardcore NFL fan, it's really hard to get excited about anything related to the league until I know for sure there will be a resolution soon.

Fan Sues, Now That's What I'm Talking About

2011-03-25T10:38:00.002-06:00

Cleveland is still pissed that Art Modell moved the Browns and made them into the Ravens. And so when the NFL and its players can't come to agreement on how to split billions of dollars, leave it to a Cleveland Browns fan to sue the NFL over the fact that the Browns are asking for ticket money. I love it. And I hope this guy wins.