Tag Archives: Drew Brees

Jan 14 2012

Noonan: NFL Divisional Playoff Predictions

Can Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos keep their playoff magic going on Saturday against New England? (Photo Credit: Zimbio.com)

By Matt Noonan 

Here are my predictions for the NFC Divisional Round.

New Orleans 30, San Francisco 21: The Saints cashed in on five offensive series in the second half against the Detroit Lions last weekend, and are expected to keep their high-flying offensive attack going against the 49ers on Saturday. Drew Brees clearly is on a mission, which is why I believe they’ll defeat San Francisco, and advance to the NFC Championship game for the second time in three seasons.

New England 28 – Denver 16: The story of Tim Tebow has been fascinating, but against the Patriots at Gillette Stadium, I’m expecting him to struggle, and possibly throw two or three interceptions.

Baltimore 28 – Houston 21: Earlier this season, the Ravens defeated the Texans, 29-14. Joe Flacco completed 20-of-33 passes for 305 yards and one touchdown, while Billy Cundiff kicked five field goals. Can Baltimore duplicate their week five performance against Houston on Sunday? My answer… YES!

New York 24 – Green Bay 21: This is a total shot in the dark, but the Giants have gained a great deal of momentum over the past few weeks, and might have what it takes to knock out the defending NFC and Super Bowl champions. I like New York’s front seven on defense, especially since they could provide a great deal of chaos toward quarterback Aaron Rodgers. If the Giants pressure the Packers, and force a few turnovers, then expect Big Blue to walk away winners on Sunday.

Dec 27 2011

Breaking Down The NFC Playoff Picture

Photo Credit: Bleacher Report

By Brian Willwerth 

With one week to go in the regular season, here’s the lowdown on the NFC playoff picture….

The Green Bay Packers will be the No. 1 seed. They’ve won the North, and have clinched home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

The San Francisco 49ers are champions of the West. They can clinch the No. 2 seed and first-round bye if they beat the Rams in St. Louis on Sunday.

The New Orleans Saints won the South last night, with Drew Brees’ record-breaking performance.  They can still get a bye if they beat Carolina, and San Francisco falters.

The  Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons are the wild cards. That’s etched in stone.

The real drama lies in the NFC East, where the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants will face off in a winner-take-all showdown in primetime at the Meadowlands. The winner wins the division; the loser is out. Think NBC is licking its chops?

Oct 31 2011

NFL Week Eight – Rapid Reactions/Thoughts

Ray Rice rushed for three scores against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, and helped his team rally to score 24-points in the second half!

By Matt Noonan 

It’s been a rather interesting season.

No one would have imagined that after roughly eight weeks, (excluding Monday’s game between Kansas City and San Diego), Buffalo, Cincinnati, and Detroit would be in contention for playoff spots.

Did anyone expect the Indianapolis Colts or Miami Dolphins to be winless, especially after eight weeks of the regular season?

Finally, who truly believed that Matt Hasselbeck and the Tennessee Titans were going to be a good team?

Again, it’s been quite an up-and-down season, but here are some rapid reactions and thoughts from Sunday’s slate, enjoy.

Philadelphia Runs Past Dallas’s Defense: Against the Cowboys defense, which was ranked first in the league against the run, the Eagles rushed for 239-yards and two scores thanks to LeSean McCoy, who finished the game with 185 yards on 30 carries, and quarterback Michael Vick, who added 50 yards on seven carries.

Indeed, Rob Ryan’s defense has experienced a great deal of success this season against the run, but perhaps a game like Sunday’s against the Eagles might help sure up the front seven for the remainder of the season.

Both squads are currently in a three-way tie for second place with Washington, and two games behind New York.

Blame Game – Bill Belichick:Against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick once again proved that he’s human.

In the fourth quarter, Belichick chose not to challenge a Rob Gronkowski catch, which appeared to be a touchdown. He also elected to attempt an onside-kick that completely failed.

In some ways, many fans might consider this the second coming of 4th-and-2 from ’09 against the Colts, but all in all, there’ll certainly be a lot of questions directed toward the field general on Monday at Gillette Stadium when he meets with the media.

Great Endings: Sunday featured some bizarre, yet interesting endings.

In Baltimore, running back Ray Rice finished the game with three touchdowns, and 63 yards on 18 carries, as the Ravens beat the Arizona Cardinals, 30-27. Quarterback Joe Flacco completed 31-of-51 passes for 336 yards, but didn’t toss a single touchdown.

In Carolina, Christian Ponder led the Minnesota Vikings down the field, and set up a Ryan Longwell field goal, which helped the “Purple People Eaters” defeat the Panthers, 24-21, as well as end snap a two-game losing streak.

In New Jersey, the New York Giants rallied to score 10-points during the final quarter to beat Miami, 20-17. Quarterback Eli Manning connected with wide receiver Victor Cruz on a 25-yard pass late in the final quarter, which secured the win for Big Blue.

Finally, in St. Louis, the Rams snapped their six-game losing streak by upsetting the New Orleans Saints, 31-21. Running back Steven Jackson rushed for 159 yards and two scores, while quarterback A.J. Feeley completed 20-of-37 passes for 175 yards and tossed one touchdown too. Saints quarterback Drew Brees finished the game with one touchdown and two interceptions.

Oct 17 2011

NFL Week Six – Hot Topics

Jason Garrett should be blamed for the Cowboy's most recent loss, especially for his conservative play calling!

By Matt Noonan 

Sunday was a busy day across the NFL, but also one that featured a great deal of surprises.

Here are a few thoughts on some key issues that have been discussed by fans, talk-show hosts and bloggers across America on Monday.

Patriots-Cowboys: This was indeed an epic contest that featured two teams going in completely different directions.

With roughly four-minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, and Dallas leading New England by a whooping three-points, head coach Jason Garrett elected to run the ball three times, as well as punt on fourth-down, which set up the heroic Tom Brady, who led the Patriots to a game-winning touchdown.

Dallas should have won this game, especially since they forced the Patriots to turn the ball over four times, (two interceptions, two fumbles), but instead, they imploded and handed their opponent another easy “w.”

New England’s offense gassed Rob Ryan’s defense, while Garrett took the ball out of his quarterback’s hands during the team’s final few drives, and put the weight of the contest on rookie running back DeMarco Murray’s back, which probably wasn’t the right decision.

Overall, it wasn’t a pretty game for either team, but an important victory for the Patriots and another heartbreaking loss for the Cowboys.

Sean Payton’s Injured Leg: This was indeed an accident, but again, something you don’t see every day, right?

Saints tight end Jimmy Graham caught a pass from quarterback Drew Brees and then collided with head coach Sean Payton, who tumbled to the ground on the team’s sideline. Payton was then assisted to the team’s bench and doctor’s identified his injury – a torn meniscus and fractured bone in his left leg, which was repaired on Monday.

Although, while reports have stated, Payton won’t be able to put pressure on his left leg for roughly eight weeks, one might wonder if this particular accident will propel the Saints downward?

My answer… No!

Brees discussed his coach’s injury with reporters on Sunday, but didn’t seem concerned. The Saints are too good of a football team to let a minor issue, such as a Payton’s injury get in their way, especially against the winless Indianapolis Colts.

Harbaugh-Schwartz handshake: This was bizarre and strange at the same time.

I can’t recall the last time two coaches sparred with one another after a game concluded, but I am convinced that San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh wanted to rub his nose in Jim Schwartz’s face after his team’s fifth win of the season.

I expect the league and commissioner Roger Goodell to fine both coaches for acting inappropriately.

Sep 8 2011

NFL 2011: NFC South Predictions

Expect another quality season from "Matty Ice!"

By Brian Willwerth 

1.) Atlanta Falcons [13-3] – A lot of people still have a hard time believing this team went [14-2] last season and ended up with the best record in the NFC. That’s probably because the eventual Super Bowl champs walked into the Georgia Dome and blew them out of the playoffs. But this is a very talented team led by quarterback Matt Ryanand running back Michael Turner. They addressed their defense in the offseason with the signing of Ray Edwards.

2.) New Orleans Saints [11-5] – When you think of the Saints, probably the first name that comes to mind is quarterback Drew Brees. He has been sensational since coming to New Orleans, and that will likely continue in 2011. Reggie Bush is gone. Mark Ingram is now in the backfield. But the defense must improve if the Saints are to advance far in the playoffs. New Orleans still has a sour taste in its mouth, after losing to Seattle in the Wild Card round last year.

3.) Tampa Bay Buccaneers [9-7] – The Bucs were one of the best surprise stories of 2010, turning in a 10-win season and just missing the playoffs. For the first time in forever, it is the offense leading the team instead of the defense. Quarterback Josh Freeman had an outstanding first full season as the starter while wide receiver Mike Williams made an instant impact out of Syracuse. But the big question on this team is the defense. The Bucs really struggled to get any sort of a pass rush going. They hope their first-round pick, defensive end Adrian Clayborn, will help fix that.

4.) Carolina Panthers [4-12] – Let the Cam Newton era begin in Carolina. The Panthers made him the first pick in the draft, and he will start immediately in Week 1. It’s difficult to expect anything more than 3 or 4 wins from a team starting a rookie quarterback, but we shall see.

Aug 17 2011

Is Eli Manning in Tom Brady’s Class?

Why do you think Eli Manning decided to compare himself to Tom Brady?

By Matt Noonan 

So, apparently, New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning believes he is technically in the same class, as New England Patriots quarterback, Tom Brady.

Hmm… do you believe this is an accurate and fair statement? Perhaps, Manning is trying to drum up some excitement for the blue and white fan base; especially since the Giants and Patriots will face-off against one another this season, yet, why compare oneself to Mr. Brady?

It’s rather hard to consider Manning and Brady on the same level or in the same sentence, however, if it’sPeyton Manning, well that’s one thing, but brother Eli, I don’t think so.

Eli experienced one of the greatest playoff runs in ’07, as he miraculously gained momentum at the right time, as well as led New York past the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers and the undefeated Patriots to capture Super Bowl XLII.

However, after that dramatic, yet, exciting run, Manning has yet to lead the Giants back to the title game. In fact, during the past three seasons, Manning has somewhat improved; especially since he’s tossed more touchdown passes than interceptions, but once again, he hasn’t exhibited the fact that he should be considered an elite quarterback.

When fans or media members consider the question, who’re the Top-5 quarterbacks in the NFL currently, they’d probably state, Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers and Philip Rivers.

Hmm… I didn’t see Eli Manning in that particular group of names; did I misspell it or something? Hello, Eli, where’s your name?

When Manning entered the league, he not only struggled, but also appeared to be the complete opposite of his brother, Peyton. Eli’s numbers were terrible, especially since he seemed incredibly confused and dumbfounded on the gridiron. Players, media members and the New York fans heckled the young righty, as well as wanted him to leave town, but he remained under center and somehow managed to win a Super Bowl ring, which still leaves many football gurus wonder, how’d he do it?

In ’10, Manning tossed 31 touchdowns and 25 interceptions, which clearly proves that he’s not the greatest gunslinger in the game. In fact, his 25 interceptions are the most he’s ever thrown in his eight-year career, which might be somewhat of a red flag, right? Again, how can someone consider him one the best quarterbacks, especially if he throws numerous interceptions?

Brady will always be considered a legend, as well as one of the games greatest signal callers in league history and yes, he’s also won three Super Bowls too. Yet, besides earning the Patriots some hardware, he’s also a six-time Pro Bowler, as well as a two-time First Team All-Pro. Brady has also proven that he’s Mr. Clutch and is certainly someone fans can trust with the game on the line.

All in all, I think it’s fair to state that Eli Manning is either easy crazy or trying to insult the Patriots. Who knows where this whole, “I am in the same class” comment came from, but expect the Giants-Patriots game to be circled on New England’s calendar. Brady, as well as his counterparts have been insulted or bashed numerous times over the years; however, it’s usually the Patriots who get the last laugh.

Jul 14 2011

Daily Noontime – July 14, 2011

Team USA continued their exciting run on Wednesday with an impressive 3-1 win against France!

Good Thursday to everyone and welcome into the one and only Daily Noontime! You’re excited, right? Absolutely you’re excited, (insert laughing sound effect). Any who, here’s the day’s headlines and news, so enjoy! 

Headlines: 

* Team USA defeated France in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals on Wednesday and will now take on Japan in the finals. However, some believe that this particular national team puts on a show that can’t be missed.

* It’s official, NFL quarterbacks Tom Brady, Drew Brees and Peyton Manning want a new CBA, as well as the owners to cooperate.

* Boston Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo has been enjoying the NBA Lockout. OK that’s definitely an understatement, bur really, he’s in the news due to his elbow.

* Now that the Milwaukee Brewers have Francisco Rodriguez on their roster, one has to imagine that they’re interested in making a playoff run, right?

* The New England Revolution appeared to be no match for Manchester United, who beat them Wednesday evening at Gillette Stadium, 4-1.

* Apparently the NCAA has turned their attention to the University of Auburn as of recently and wants to find out more in regards to Cam Newton‘s recruitment.

Games to Watch: 

* Cleveland at Baltimore (MLB) – 7:05pm eastern 

* New York Yankees at Toronto (MLB) – 7:07pm eastern 

* San Francisco at San Diego (MLB) – 10:05pm eastern 

Video of the Day: 

How awesome is this shot? 

May 26 2011

Daily Noontime – May 26, 2011

The Lightning won another do-or-die game, which means Game 7 will be played at the TD Garden in Boston on Friday!

It’s Thursday, which means the weekend is upon us! Happy Thursday to everyone and welcome to yet another Daily Noontime! 

Headlines: 

* The Tampa Bay Lightning took care of business on Wednesday, as they scored multiple times on the power play to beat Boston and force a Game 7 at the TD Garden on Friday.

* It took just five games, but the Dallas Mavericks beat the Oklahoma City Thunder and will advance to the NBA Finals to face Chicago or Miami.

* Former Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Mike Brown was hired on Wednesday to coach the Los Angles Lakers.

* The Red Sox scored seven runs during the first inning and then went onto beat the Indians on Wednesday, 14-2.

* According to New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, his team’s workouts are important.

* The MLB has some tough catchers, but now the questions remains, should they not block the plate when the opposing teams attempts to score runs?

Games to Watch: 

* Kansas City at Baltimore (MLB) – 12:3pm eastern

* Boston at Detroit (MLB) – 1:05pm eastern

* New York Mets at Chicago Cubs (MLB) – 2:20pm eastern

* Florida at San Francisco (MLB) – 3:45pm eastern

Video of the Day: 

It’s always embarrassing when you score a goal on your own goalie!

May 4 2011

Daily Noontime – May 4, 2011

Consider it the first of possibly more "no-no's" to come in the MLB!

Happy Wednesday to everyone and welcome to the one and only Daily Noontime! It should be yet another awesome and exciting day, so sit back, relax and enjoy today’s headlines and news!

Headlines: 

* It’s official, MLB has seen their first “no-no” of the year, as Minnesota Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano silenced the Chicago White Sox, 1-0 on Tuesday.

* Is it possible to say that the Miami Heat won’t be stopped? The Heat beat the Boston Celtics in Game 2 of their semi-final series on Tuesday.

* The Tampa Bay Lightning are making it look too easy, as they now lead the Washington Capitals, 3-0 in their Eastern Conference semi-final series.

* Apparently sources are reporting that the NFL will return to court and ask for the lockout to be “upheld!“

* Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose becomes the youngest player to receive the NBA’s MVP award.

* Apparently Drew Brees texted Reggie Bush telling him that the New Orleans Saints want him on the team.

Games to Watch: 

* Philadelphia at Boston (NHL Playoffs) – 7:00pm eastern

* Washington at Tampa Bay (NHL Playoffs) – 7:00pm eastern

* San Jose at Detroit (NHL Playoffs) – 8:00pm eastern

* Atlanta at Chicago Bulls (NBA Playoffs) – 8:00pm eastern

* Dallas at Los Angles Lakers (NBA Playoffs) – 10:30pm eastern

Video of the Day: 

Nothing like a “no-hitter” in baseball! 


Jan 12 2011

Daily Noontime – January 12, 2011

Happy Wednesday and for all of us in the Northeast, Happy Snow Day! While the weather outside is frightful, Noontime Sports will be just delightful by warming everyone up with our Daily Noontime for Wednesday January 12, 2011, so enjoy!

Headlines:

* It may be unlikely, but could former Celtics forward Rasheed Wallace really be on his way back to Boston? We will find out!

* New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees has now decided to forget his teams first round playoff loss to the Seattle Seahawks and decided to focus on the NFL’s CBA.

* It is official, the Carolina Panthers have named former San Diego Chargers defensive coordinator Ron Rivera their new head coach.

* MLB closer Trevor Hoffman has officially decided to hang up his cleats and retire, boy will he missed!

* The commissioner of the MLB, Bud Selig, has confirmed that there won’t be an expanded playoff system in 2011.

* Despite being not allowed at the BCS National Championship, Cecil Newton was in attendance for the game Monday to watch Cam Newton lead the Auburn Tigers to victory.

* LeBron James decided that it was necessary to use Twitter to tweet something awful about his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday when they were losing badly to the L.A. Lakers.

Games to Watch:

* Pittsburgh at Montreal (NHL) – 7:30pm eastern

* Washington at Tampa Bay (NHL) – 7:30pm eastern

* Orlando at New Orleans (NBA) – 8:00pm eastern

* New York Knicks at Utah (NBA) – 9:00pm eastern

Video to Watch:

Boy sports anchoring can be tough, especially when you have a closer like Trevor Hoffman.