I am excited about the playoffs this year. Firstly, the Falcons are playing, tomorrow at 1 PM. They play the Giants in New York. It should be a good game.
Cincinnati returns to the playoffs, for the first time in several years, I think. I like to see different teams make it. They play Houston, in Texas. This is the first playoff appearance for the young Houston franchise, though the old Houston team, the Oilers, made it . I liked that old Oiler team; Luv Ya Blue, Bum Phillips and all that. It was a good time. Earl Campbell, what are you doing these days? One of the interesting facets of this game is that both sides have a rookie quarterback. How weird is that? Kids start playing ball when they're five years old and by the time they come out of college, they are more polished than they used to be. Unfortunately, I'm afraid a lot of them have a one dimensional life. Of course, to be one of the best in the world at anything, you have to be quite dedicated. I found it refreshing to hear one of the Williams sisters (Tennis) comment that she wasn't that crazy about playing tennis. I can totally relate to that. I mean, wouldn't you just die for a cheeseburger every once in a while? The almost fanatical training programs of world class athletes doesn't leave room for splurging.
In other playoff games, Pittsburgh goes to Denver to face the Broncos wicked defense and Tim Tebow. Let me say, I don't appreciate folks who make fun of Tebow's faith. That doesn't even sound American, really. Seems like this country was founded by people who were seeking religious freedom. I guess I am old-fashioned. As far as the game goes, I don't really have a dog in this fight, (I don't care who wins) but since Pittsburgh is always in the playoffs, it wouldn't hurt my feelings if Denver wins. I find it more exciting to see new blood in the Super Bowl.
The Saints look like the team to beat, in my view. The Saints are a southern team, and I like New Orleans, but they won it all just two years ago. I hope Detroit beats them. Also, I don't like the way New Orleans put that 'high-low' hit on Brett Favre during the playoffs, when he was playing for Minnesota a few years ago. It is a hard thing to judge intent, but there you go. Detroit hasn't been to the playoffs for a while and I am tickled for them. (That's southern talk for I'm happy for them.) If they want to win they will have to harass Mr. Brees early and often. The same can be said for all the elite quarterbacks in the playoffs. Brady, Brees, Rogers, Manning.
Hey, how about Peyton? I feel bad about this guy. I really think a lot of him. I hope he retires if it means that he will be able to live a normal life. He is a terrific guy. Funny. He builds a hospital for children and suddenly he suffers a neck injury. The forces of good and evil battle, on and off the football field. Whatever your view of the universe, you must believe that there are forces on both sides. I remember seeing a play, just last year or late the season before, where Peyton was on the ground and a linebacker speared him in the neck with his helmet. I remember thinking, "Wow, cheap hit. Hope he gets back up." Make no mistake, when it gets playoff time, primo quarterbacks have a target on them. One more thing about Peyton. Is it okay for the people in Indy to treat him so cavalierly about his future with the team? I mean, the guy has been 'the guy' up there. Then he gets hurt and you start putting up signs for Andrew Luck? I don't know. I'm just saying, how does that make Manning feel? Plus, if you think that Andrew Luck is a lock to be as good as Peyton, well, lots of luck. I've watched pro football since 1958 and I can tell you that Manning is among the top ten quarterbacks of all time. I have never seen anyone who is more accurate. Lets not toss him aside like a used ******. Treat the man with respect.
Remember a few years ago, (more than a few) when Carson Palmer got hurt, either in the playoffs or just before the playoffs started? I hated to see that. It is rare indeed when a team like Houston can go to their second and third string QB and still make the playoffs. Is it their year or something? (Houston, I mean)
I know you'll laugh but I don't think the Packers will go all the way this year. It is so hard to repeat as champs. It's hard to keep the zeal and the fire over the long haul. You have played 24 games the year before, then turn around and try to play 24 more. Plus, everyone gives you their best shot. Then you have the media glare on you, all the guys want more money, egos may get involved. It is just tough. They are certainly good enough, though. I remember, when I was a kid. The Packers were so tough under Lombardi and I was a Colts fan. Man, I didn't like the Packers at all. Nothing personal, they just beat up on my team a lot.
Well, now that I've made everybody in America mad by talking about their respective teams, I'll sign off. If the Falcons get beaten tomorrow, I may play Shadowgun next weekend.
From the author's green retreat, I'm CE Wills.
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