Florham Park's Bigger Perv: Rex or Brett?

With this week’s revelation of a foot fetish video starring Rex Ryan and his wife, the Jets franchise took another step away from being a credible NFL franchise, and towards being a low budget softcore porn hub. Deadspin is becoming the proverbial thorn in the Jets side, albeit somewhat by their own doing. The recent surfacing of Rex’s scandal begs the question: Who was/is the biggest pervert in recent Jets history? The following narrative is an account of the argument FOR and AGAINST each previously proud man.

Brett Favre's "situation" with Jen Sterger blew up earlier this year.

BRETT FAVRE – HE’S A PERV

Earlier this year, the story broke about Brett Favre’s flirtatious texts with Jets media affiliate Jen Sterger. The married Favre had sent texts to Sterger hoping for a rendezvous off hours. Adding insult to injury, Favre’s wife Deanna is a cancer survivor, and fought a very public battle with Brett painted (by ESPN) as the perfect, supportive husband. The icing on the perv cake is the fact that Brett actually sent Sterger a picture of his genitals - the picture "leaked" out (at a convenient time for Sterger). Adding insult to injury for Favre is the fact that the Brett's package was apparently an itsy bitsy teenie weenie shriveled little... - you get the picture. 



HOT DOG! Brett sent a different version to Jen Sterger

BRETT FAVRE – HE’S OK

Brett is being exploited (and some would say extorted) for his money and fame. This is a fact, no matter how much you think Brett is terrible. Jen Sterger clearly baited Favre by waiting almost 2 years to leak the pictures to Deadspin. Let me guess, Jen, you were spending the last 2 years recovering from the trauma of looking at Brett’s junk. Plus, boys will be boys, and Brett had spent a lot of time away from his wife that season with the New York Jets. His flirting was a product of that.

And here I thought Rex was just really into role play. Turns out he's a foot fetish guy.

REX RYAN – HE’S A PERV

A foot fetish? That’s some serious sexual stuff. Most guys are into their wife’s face and body….but her feet? Rex became an icon  to any sick foot-loving bastards that might be out there. He’s got somewhat of a brain in his head….enough to know how stupid it is to hold a job as a coordinator/coach and post videos of himself online that show him doing what he was doing. Let’s call a spade a spade…That was pretty embarrassing.   

Is this what Rex's life is like on the Jets bye week? Or is this just the best picture I could find when I Google Imaged "foot fetish"

 REX RYAN – HE’S OK

He’s a good motivator who has his team at 10-4 on the season.  The video that surfaced was Rex with his wife. HIS OWN WIFE. America can pass judgment on just how sick a foot fetish might be, but ultimately that’s his business with his wife. If he and his wife want to dress up and do freaky things, they can do so, because it’s his wife.

THE VERDICT:

Brett Favre is clearly a bigger pervert. He sent texts to a woman who was not his wife, after his wife had been battling cancer. Even though the texts stayed dormant for 2 years, they still happened. Rex’s deal was pretty embarrassing (especially because of the bravado that follows him), but at least it was with his own wife.  Why is Brett still lauded, revered, and respected on TV? (mostly by ESPN) Oh, that’s right, he has a southern drawl, charm, and fellates Chris Berman on a regular basis.

"Dear Diary"

After updating the blog twice in a 4 day period, I came under criticism for blogging too frequently. My friend from Long Island told me so. My blog followers cried too much, too soon. My wife began to crack “Dear Diary…” jokes, and questioned whether I was spending my time properly. Truth be told, it does not take me very long to finish one of these, once I get rolling.

In addition, my self-indulgent fantasy football blog rubbed quite a few people the wrong way. The presence of a few of my own players in the breakout discussion was enough to steer some away.

Given these high demands, and the increased scrutiny that the blog’s strong start (...more self indulgence) got off too, I spent many a minute over the past week shuffling through topics for my next blog.

Many pleaded with me to blog about the fantasy football playoffs. A few wanted a blog about the Patriots-Jets. One bowling coach wanted me to blog about the New York Knicks (who knew?).

I decided that since I had opinions about all of these things, and since they are all going on right now, that I would write a "potpourri" blog to deliver my take on everything.

P.S....the same friend from Long Island who told me that I was blogging too much just recently told me that he was yearning for a blog from me. Ask and you shall receive.

The New York Yets Crash in New England

Fireman Ed wasn't leading any cheers last Monday Night.

“Y…E…T…S…Yets, Yets, Yets” … as in, we haven’t done anything, “yet”. The game was one of the most hyped regular season games in NY Jets history. The Jets and Patriots both came in at 9-2 with a chance to take a commanding hold of the lead in the AFC East. The Jets came out and absolutely spit the bit (this is a PG-rated blog). They were outplayed in every way, shape, and form. Rex Ryan was exposed in the spotlight by challenging a puzzling spot on the first drive, before going for it on 4^th down (If you knew you were going for it anyway, why challenge the play?). He also lined up Nick Folk for a 53-yard field goal attempt in swirling winds on a cold night. It was a rough one for Rex.

I still am a fan of his confident, “we got swag’” style. I think his team eats it up. I think he has to be smarter about it. He had the right angle in his Tuesday media address, in terms of the team moving forward and putting the loss behind them. Then he compared them to the ’85 Bears. Come on dude…use your head.

Jay Cutler gets Suh-ed by a Lion

I’m lukewarm on the NFL’s new emphasis on illegal hits. I see plays on which defensive players launch themselves at receivers in a manner that can be very dangerous. It’s one thing to lay a big stick to jar the ball loose. It’s another to do so with intent to injure. Jameel McClain’s hit on Heath Miller last week on Sunday night was completely out of line. I thought it was one of the worst hit’s I’ve ever seen.



How does that turf taste? Maybe now you'll wipe that stupid frat boy smirk off your face.

 That said….what the hell was up (I can say “hell” in a PG blog) with the personal foul call on Ndamukong Suh? Jay Cutler was running with the ball in open space as Suh chased him down from behind. Suh violently shoved him down from behind, contacting his upper back. He was flagged on the field for Unnecessary Roughness. I think it was BS, but the aftermath was even more puzzling. After the replays showed that Suh CLEARLY had not contacted Cutler’s head, the league still fined him $15,000. It’s not his fault Jay Cutler fell down like a dish rag. Damn I can’t stand Cutler (see previous blogs....and the photo above).

Jeter and Yanks Work It Out

We get to see the Jeter fist pump for at least 3 more years.

Phew. I never really thought Jeter would sign elsewhere, but I grew uncomfortable as the negotiations progressed. I’m glad they came to an agreement, and I’ll get to see Jeter play the next 3 years in pinstripes. He deserves every penny.

Jeter spoke candidly about the process. Making it very apparent that he was not happy with the Yanks saying he should test the market. His agent kinda started it, but regardless, I don’t want to see DJ unhappy. Hopefully this blows over. Winning cures a lot.

The New Evil Empire?

The Boston Red Sox had a down year last year. Yes, they finished third in the AL East with an 89-73 record. However, they lacked the offensive firepower to drive in runs consistently. Pedroia, Youkilis, and Ellsbury were out injured for significant portions of the year. They had to give consistent at bats to guys like Bill Hall, Daniel Nava, and Darnell McDonald (who resurfaces on a roster every 3 years). While Boston certainly had its pitching issues (see Beckett, Josh and Papelbon, Jonathan), the offense was something that surely lacked in 2010.

I didn't know that Dunkin Donuts sponsored the Red Sox. Maybe I'll get my coffee elsewhere in the morning.

Here we are in early December at the winter meetings, and Theo has opened up the pocketbook, scraped up some loose change, and made the two biggest splashes of winter free agency. They traded for the only valuable Padres offensive player in the last 10 years, Adrian Gonzalez. The Sawx then made Carl Crawford, who will turn 29 next year, one of the richest players in MLB history. His contract is the largest ever for a position player who has never hit 20 home runs. There is $20 million a year hoping his legs hold up.

Once featured on a Topps card together, the Red Sox hope that Crawford bares a resemblance to Henderson when it comes to durability over time. Rickey was a productive player well into his mid-to-late 30's.

If they do, he’s Rickey Henderson in 2017 when the contract is up. If they don’t, he’s Vince Coleman. OK, that comparison was a bit much, but you get the idea. If he doesn’t have stolen bases as part of his game, he is a very good outfielder, but not a $140 million player. Right now, he’s got them. Let’s see what the future brings.

My take.....OVERPAID, BAD CONTRACT

Break Up the Knicks

Here we go. I’m actually doing it. What good blogger doesn’t respond to what his people want. Without further ado, a blog on the New York Knicks.

When approached by my 2^nd favorite Spotswood Charger (Trg Bone #1) last week to blog about the Knicks, I tried to think of players that I knew on the team. Amare was obvious. I had heard in the off-season they had acquired Raymond Felton. I knew they had lost David Lee to the Warriors. I also knew they had Danilo Gallinari. I knew that Mike D’Antoni was their coach, and that they didn’t play any defense.

The first time I saw what Landry Fields looks like was when I Google-imaged this picture!

Admittedly, the NBA has been a virtual non-factor for me for quite awhile. I don’t like that players get paid a ton of money, while being unpolished with little social awareness (see Arenas, Gilbert). I don’t like how nobody plays defense, and how I can never tell what a foul is. Most of all, I don’ t like that the Knicks stink every friggin’ year. Maybe things are changing.

Since the blog plea, I have paid special attention to the Knicks. I looked up their roster that day and found that they had an impressive, overachieving rookie named Landry Fields who was a major spark plug. I began to watch parts of games. If things continue to go well, I could be watching full Knicks games by the end of the month.

I’m not going to go into a lot of detail here for two reasons – #1 I have yet to watch a full game, and #2 I don’t want to get too excited too soon. The Knicks are currently 14-9 and in 2^nd place in the Atlantic Division. I’ll be honest, until I wrote this blog I had forgotten it was called the “Atlantic” in the NBA and not the “East”. I heard on WFAN the other day that this is the first time in 10 years the Knicks have been 5 games over .500. Sounds about right.

Keep it up Knicks…and I’ll dedicate a full blog to you after the Super Bowl. For now, this is as much as you’re getting.

The Devils SUCK

The headline says it all. Can’t score, can’t play defense. Getting out-hustled. Marty’s aging and banged up. All the things they say about a team when they are reeling, can be said about the Devils.

I have a $250 Devils jersey (unsigned, with no name on the back, by the way) that I have yet to don this year.

Damn...I could've gotten this jersey for $100 cheaper than the one I have now.
I'll always remember my first Devils-Flyers game. Wait...I think I mean "never" instead of "always".

It’s hanging up in my basement next to my Cowboys jerseys and my Rutgers football and basketball jerseys. A de facto “Wall of Shame”…

2010 Breakout Players - A Fantasy Football Fable

Back up in time, if you would, to late August, 2010. It is the day of your fantasy football draft. Your friends assemble at the commissioner’s house for the annual draft. The draft order gets picked, and you’re sweating bullets (and not because it’s 80° in the house). You’ve drawn the last pick, which means you get the 12^th and 13^th picks, respectively. You hope and pray that a front-line running back makes it to your draft position.

Meanwhile, the guy with the 11^th pick is the one guy in the league who everyone knows does not do his homework. One year he drafted a defense in the 4^th round. Another, a kicker in the 8^th. He’s a fantasy football disaster and everyone looks forward to playing his team. You’re feeling confident that he will not snag any of your target players, as he is screwing up his draft.

Every group of friends has that one person who everyone thinks knows nothing about football.

The draft begins and the big names start flying off the board…Chris Johnson, Ray Rice, MJD, Gore, Steven Jackson, Rashard Mendenhall all gone. The 11^th pick comes and the clueless wonder takes Arian Foster of Houston….who? Nobody has him ranked in their first 3 rounds, and you rejoice at your fortune.

You can’t believe your luck, as you select Ryan Grant and Matt Schaub on the wrap around.

On the way back, with receivers starting to go off the board, he declares “I need to nab a top WR”, and subsequently picks Dwayne Bowe of Kansas City. You laugh to yourself (because he is your friend) and take sleeper Ryan Mathews and Arizona feature back Beanie Wells. You’re feeling great about getting 3 of the top RB’s and a top flight QB.

As he nabs Hakeem Nicks and Kevin Kolb with his next two picks, your “clueless” buddy continues to make head scratching moves throughout the draft. True to form, he takes Pittsburgh D/ST in Round 5 and Stephen Gotkowski in Round 6. As you figured, he is left with a paltry pool of players to select from for the remaining rounds, and ends up with a suspect roster of skill position players.

You had exactly ZERO of his players targeted on your radar. He grabs some mid-range wide receivers late in the draft, and even takes Michael Vick to “handcuff” Kevin Kolb. You spend the next few days laughing with other league owners about how screwed up his draft was.

OK, now fast-forward. The “clueless” wonder is 10-2. Your team, led by Matt Schaub, Brandon Jackson (picked up when Ryan Grant went down), Beanie Wells, and Ryan Mathews, is 3-9 and has had a disasterous season. Meanwhile, your boy has the following lineup in place for the playoffs:

QB Michael Vick                                                33.0 ppg              

RB Arian Foster                                                  24.5 ppg

RB Peyton Hillis                                                  20.5 ppg

WR Dwayne Bowe                                            19.0 ppg

WR Hakeem Nicks                                            17.0 ppg

FLEX Brandon Lloyd                                         18.5 ppg

TE Marcedes Lewis                                           10.0 ppg

K Shayne Graham                                              8.0 ppg

D/ST Steelers                                                     10.5 ppg

*Numbers when all players healthy

Now, be honest. NOBODY wants to see this guy’s team in the playoffs. This lineup averages 161.0 ppg!

His team is laden with fantasy football (and “real” football) breakout players.

Pep’s Vibe – The BREAKOUT Players

Michael Vick is playing out of this world, and has re-emerged on the fantasy radar as a much more consistent (and, incidentally, more valuable) player than he ever was in Atlanta.

Michael Vick has matured - both on and off the field - since his days in Atlanta.

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Arian Foster was projected by many to have a solid year, but best running back in football? Nobody saw that coming – even owners who drafted him in the first 5 rounds of this year’s drafts.

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Peyton Hillis was on nobody’s radar prior to the season. Jerome Harrison was handed the reins to the Browns rushing attack, and Monterio Hardesty was a sexy “sleeper” pick for those without faith in Harrison.

Peyton Hillis was given away by Denver for Brady Quinn and draft picks. Its debatable whether Browns fans or fantasy owners are more giddy about that trade.

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Dwayne Bowe looked to possibly be heading the route of Michael Clayton after Week 5 (breakout rookie season, followed by methodical fade away into oblivion). Since becoming BFF with Matt Cassel, Bowe has played out of his mind – at a level above what anybody, anywhere, at any time, ever thought possible.

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Hakeem Nicks had upside prior to the season, but was hampered by an injury-plagued rookie year and existence in a Bradshaw/Jacobs dominated offense, with returning Pro Bowler Steve Smith as the primary receiving threat. He has emerged as one of the most explosive WR’s in football and is a bona fide star.

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Brandon Lloyd was a much-traveled, much-overhyped wide receiver entering this season (stops with the 49ers, Bears, and Redskins pictured below). He was on his last legs in the NFL, having busted in quite a few places. In 2010, he has become a better Brandon Marshall than Brandon Marshall himself.

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Mike Williams of Seattle would not be in the NFL if Pete Carroll did not abandon USC for the Seahawks. A poster child for the term “draft bust”, MWSEA was always big, but lacked speed and work-ethic. He has come out of nowhere (propelled by trades of TJ Housh-ma-zoad and Deion Branch) to become a top level WR.

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Mike Williams of Tampa Bay was taken late in the 2010 NFL draft because of off-the-field issues. He quit the football team at Syracuse, and was even the second rookie WR drafted by the Bucs (behind Arrelious Benn). MWTB has emerged as a consistent producer and his rise has coincided with that of Josh Freeman.

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Danny Amendola was a practice squad player who was cut by several NFL teams. He was athletic but lacked the “look” of a prototypical NFL wide receiver. St. Louis has found a way to use his speed, and he has emerged as one of rookie phenom Sam Bradford’s favorite targets.

When he was a practice squad player with the Cowboys, few believed Danny Amendola  would develop into a fantasy PPR machine.

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Marcedes Lewis was a big tight end with a below average QB. He played in an offense that consistently struggled to move the ball and create plays in the passing game. Notice the previous two sentences were written in the past tense. Lewis has been a revelation this year on a surprising Jaguars team that is in control of its own destiny in the AFC South.

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Concluding Thoughts

All fantasy football players realize that much will change from draft day throughout the season. However, it is difficult to remember a season in which so many unforeseen players have emerged as “must-start” players in all formats.

In addition to the players mentioned, the following players could be considered “Honorable Mention” fantasy surprises:

BenJarvus Green-Ellis, NWE

Danny Woodhead, NWE

Matt Cassel, KC

Josh Freeman, TB

Sam Bradford, STL

Steve Johnson, BUF

Mike Tolbert, SD

Jacob Tamme, IND

VY - In"vince"ible?

Following the Titans embarrassing overtime loss to the Washington Redskins, there was an apparent locker room exchange in which QB Vince Young disrespected Head Coach Jeff Fisher in front of the entire team. The Titans are reeling, sitting at 5-5 in the ultra-competitive AFC South. They essentially have the opportunity to control their own destiny, playing 5 of their remaining 6 games against AFC South opponents (including the Colts twice). However, they have major issues that need to be settled.

Vince inappropriately was making comments and laughing as Fisher was addressing the team at halftime of the Redskins game, and then proceeded to walk out. When told by Fisher to not walk out on his teammates, Young replied that he was walking out on Fisher, not his teammates. In the fallout since:

• VY has been placed on injured reserve with a thumb injury.
• Jeff Fisher has stated that even if Vince had not gone on IR, he would be benched for his conduct.
• Bud Adams (owner) has stated that VY and Fisher needed to "learn to get along".....neither condemning Vince's behavior nor supporting Fisher's decision.
• Vince sent a text message to Fisher attempting an apology.
• Fisher publicly questioned the genuity of the apology, claiming that he isn't big on texting, and that face-to-face is a "man thing".

Below is a breakdown of each side in this brewing feud:

Jeff Fisher

There is no coach in the NFL more respected than Jeff Fisher. In today's NFL, it is unusual for a coach to last longer than 5 years with a team. Fisher has been there so long, he actually coached the franchise for 2 1/2 years as the Houston Oilers before they moved to Tennessee. Overall, he has coached 17 seasons, compiling a record of 141-115.

Jeff Fisher has been coaching Bud Adams team since 1994 when they were the Houston Oilers. He has rebuilt the team numerous times, around players like Steve McNair (pictured).

The knock on Fisher is that the Titans never seem to be able to get it done in the playoffs. They were within a 1/2 yard of winning a Super Bowl in 1999 (Fisher's first winning season). In Fisher's 16 years prior to this season, the team made the playoffs only 6 times. His playoff record is 5-6, and his record includes 2 seasons in which the Titans entered the playoffs at 13-3 and lost at home in the divisional round (one and done).

Bud Adams, the Titans owner, has shown both loyalty to and patience with Fisher:

• It was not until Fisher's FIFTH full season that the Titans had their first winning record under him.
• The team has undergone three separate rebuilding phases under Fisher, without once winning a Super Bowl (1994-2000....2001-2003....2004-2008). The argument could be made that they are in the midst of their fourth.

Titans owner Bud Adams sends a message to Bills fans in 2009. Will he send a similar message to Jeff Fisher?


Perhaps Bud Adams is merely growing tired of waiting for Fisher to deliver a Super Bowl and is considering going in a different direction after the season.

Vince Young

Young's stock and popularity was at an all-time high coming out of Texas. He had led the Longhorns to a thrilling Rose Bowl victory over the USC Trojans in one of the greatest college football games ever played. He was rumored to be in the mix to be drafted #1 overall by his hometown Texans, before being taken third by the Titans.

In one of the greatest college football games ever played, Vince Young led the Longhorns to the 2006 Rose Bowl and the national championship. He was subsequently drafted #3 overall in the 2006 draft by the Titans.

He burst onto the NFL scene in his rookie season, taking over as the Titans starter and guiding the team to a win in 6 of their last 7 games. He was selected to the Pro Bowl as he threw for 2,200 yards and ran for 550.

The following season, he led the Titans to a 10-6 record and a berth in the AFC playoffs. Although unspectacular statistically (9 TD, 17INT), VY showed leadership ability and led the team to 3 straight wins to close the regular season and make the playoffs. His reward, a place on the cover of Madden 2008.



Vince graced the cover of Madden '08. Is the Madden curse alive and well?

 Since that time, Vince's career has taken a sharp nosedive. In 2008, he was replaced due to injury in the season's first game, and Kerry Collins stepped in and took over the team. Collins remained the starter after Young became healthy, and Young went through a series of off-the-field personal problems (suicide, weapon allegations, etc.). He watched as Collins led the Titans to a 13-3 record and a Pro Bowl selection. The Titans were now Kerry Collins' team.

Going into 2009, Collins was the unquestioned starter, but Fisher publicly asserted that he believed in Vince Young. Collins stumbled as the starter, as the Titans opened up with an 0-6 start. Fisher turned to Vince, and he led the team to an 8-2 record over the final 10 games. Vince had reclaimed the Titans as his team going into 2010. As described in the introduction, the 2010 season has been up and down for both the team and for Vince.

The Titans have a lot of money invested in Vince, and seem as though they would like to see the VY era through to its (some would say "bitter") end.

Pep's Vibe

It's impossible to defend Vince Young's conduct in the locker room. Anyone who has played on a team with a coach like Fisher understands how out of line VY was in his behavior. Fisher has been able to sustain an unusual balance as a head coach. He expects and demands the best from his players (and they do not see the field if it doesn't happen), and at the same time, he is a player's coach. His team loves him. The fans love him.

Some players just are not used to being told that they aren't doing the right things, or that they need to adjust what they are doing. Some players just want to do their own thing. Some players can only handle being told positive things when all is well, but not "hearing it like it is" when things are not going so well. This is Vince Young.



Is Vince heading down the path of former NFL Draft "busts" Akili Smith (pictured on top) and Ryan Leaf (pictured on bottom)? He cannot return to Tennessee and be successful. As it stands now, he has been villified by the fans for this incident. Imagine what it will be like next year if he runs out onto the field as the guy who forced Jeff Fisher out. Multiply the disdain for him by 50. If Bud Adams fires Jeff Fisher, he will be putting Vince in an even more impossible situation. And Fisher will be unemployed for about 5 minutes.

There are two possible solutions for the Titans that would enable them to avoid looking ridiculous:
1) Cut Vince Young after the season, and retain Fisher.
2) Vince apologizes to Fisher man-to-man, addresses the team and apologizes to the team, addresses the fans and apologizes to the fans, and takes full responsibility for his actions.

Scenario #2 is the only way in which Fisher and Young can co-exist in Tennessee. Sorry for my pessimism, but I'll believe that when I see it. I'll gladly blog about being incorrect if it does happen.

I'm betting that Bud Adams feels a different vibe and Fisher will be out in Tennessee.

Jilted by Jeter?



The Yankees have won 5 world championships since Derek Jeter became their everyday SS in 1996. Since the beginning of the Steinbrenner era in 1973, the Yankees have committed to putting the best product on the field for their fans – nearly to the tune of a “win at all costs” approach.

After the 2000 season, the Yankees rewarded their 26 year-old shortstop with a 10-year, $189million contract. Jeter had come off three of his best seasons as a professional:

1998 – .324 average, 19 HR, 84 RBI, 127 Runs, 203 Hits, 30 SB

1999 – .349 average, 24 HR, 102 RBI, 134 Runs, 219 Hits, 19 SB

2000 – .339 average, 15 HR, 73 RBI, 119 Runs, 201 Hits, 22 SB

On top of that, he was the unquestioned leader on a team that had won 4 world championships in 5 years. He was a career .300+ hitter over the course of his 5 postseason appearances, and had come up with big clutch hits time and time again. At the time, going into the 2001 season, Jeter’s contract was the richest deal ever signed by a Major League Baseball player.

The YANKEES Camp

The Yankees have made Derek Jeter a very rich man. At the time Jeter was a free agent, they signed him to a contract well above market value in order to ensure that he would be a career Yankee, and that they rewarded him for his contributions to the 4 (at the time) world championships.

Derek Jeter has made over $20 million per year over the last 5 years. Since the 1999 season, he has not hit higher than .349, or more than 24 HR, or driven in more than 102 runs, or scored more than 134 runs, or had more than 219 hits.

While remaining a very productive player, a perennial all-star, and someone who has etched an iconic chapter in Yankee history, he has been overpaid based on his statistics alone. He has been the highest paid shortstop in baseball since 2004, but has not been considered by the majority to be the best statistical SS in baseball during that time. He has driven in over 80 runs only once since signing the contract.

There is criticism about his range in the field, and he has come under scrutiny for grounding into double plays.



"Uggh Jeter....Good luck getting your 3,000th hit with the Pirates!!"
Some fans became frustrated this year with Jeter's GIDP numbers.



The Yankees feel a responsibility to their fans to put the best product on the field. While they recognize the high esteem with which many fans hold Derek Jeter (evidenced by their 3-yrs/$45million offer), they cannot afford to hamstring themselves from signing future free agents to compensate a 37-40 year old shortstop. 

The JETER Camp

While Derek Jeter has been rewarded handsomely by the Yankees over his time in pinstripes, he has played the role of “good soldier” as much as a $200 million man can. He has batted all over the lineup for the good of the team. Despite the fact that he plays like a natural #2 hitter, he spent many years batting leadoff because the Yanks lacked a true leadoff man. The argument could be made that this cut into his RBI numbers. As previously mentioned, he has topped 80 RBI only once since 2000.

He has watched as the Yankees signed high priced free agents, with no postseason track record, to salaries above what he was making – even as he made $20 million a year. Alex Rodriguez, C.C. Sabathia, Jason Giambi of recent. Chuck Knoblauch, Orlando Hernandez before he had signed this contract.



Did Chuck Knoblauch deserve more respect as a free agent than Derek Jeter?

He watched Alex Rodriguez dis’ the Yankees by opting out of his contract, only to have the Yankees swoop back in (while nobody else was going after A-Rod) and give him 10 years/$275 million. Alex will make $31 million in 2011.

It is not even a question that Jeter has been more vital to the Yankees success over the last 15 years than Alex Rodriguez, or any other player (even Mariano Rivera).  So, while he has been the most vital cog, others have been getting paid more.

PEP’S VIBE

I can’t get on board with anyone who’s going to kill Jeter’s play on the field. The guy produces, and has produced. Despite hitting .270 this year with only 10 HR, he still scored 111 runs – batting leadoff the whole year. He had a .340 on-base percentage, stole 18 bases, and made only 6 errors in 553 chances.

His last two statistical years at SS have been the best of his career. The en vogue criticisms of his defense are that he does not get to as many balls as other shortstops and that he can’t get to balls to his left. You’re still a pretty damn good shortstop if you play in 150+ games and make under 10 errors.



Jeter patented the jump throw from the hole, but people are quick to kill his defense.

He is the most iconic New York Yankee in the 37-year history of the Steinbrenner era, and is clearly in the discussion with Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Mickey Mantle, and Yogi Berra as among the greatest Yankees of all time. Jeter is at a level above the Reggie Jacksons, Bill Dickeys, Ellie Howards, Phil Rizzutos, etc. of the Yankee retired numbers.

Billy struggled writing "Rizzuto". I wonder what would happen if he tried to write "Jeter" (cursive J's are hard!)

I originally scratched my head as to why Jeter would make waves at a deal that would pay him $15million a year. But I’ve started to change my mind.

The exchange between Jeter’s agent and the Yankees is disappointing:

·         Yankees offer what many thought was a fair deal.

·         Jeter’s agent publicly calls the deal “baffling”

·         Brian Cashman urges Jeter publicly to “test the market”

·         Hank Steinbrenner says:

"As much as we want to keep everybody, we've already made these guys very, very rich, and I don't feel we owe anybody anything monetarily," the Yankees co-chairman said Tuesday. "Some of these players are wealthier than their bosses."

Hank Steinbrenner was quick to throw money at A-Rod. Will Jeter get the same treatment?

This is what kills me about the situation. Keep it behind closed doors! It does not benefit the Yankees to throw mud on Derek Jeter and paint him as greedy (even if they feel that way). It does not benefit Derek Jeter to publicly come across as greedy. This should all be discussed behind closed doors, especially because of the long history they have together. Both sides want to get the deal done, and Jeter is not talking with any other teams. Just be patient and talk behind closed doors.

As for the deal itself, I’ve changed my stance. I think they need to pay him more. In writing this blog, I reacquainted myself with some of the “off-the-field” financial escapades of the New York Yankees over the last 15 years.

The Yankees severely underpaid Jeter for quite a few years before signing this deal. They almost brought him back at the league minimum again in 1997 after he won the AL Rookie of the Year and a World Series. He made $750,000 in 1998 while putting up the numbers shown above, and finishing 3^rd in AL MVP voting. Pretty good bargain if you ask me.

Meanwhile, the Yankees have wined and dined free agents over the years and shown them more financial respect than they are showing Jeter. Jason Giambi made $23.5 million each of his last 2 years in pinstripes. JASON GIAMBI!!!

We all liked the mustache. But there was little else to like about Jason Giambi's time in New York.

I don’t think $20 million a year would be too steep, or maybe concede the 4^th year and pay him less per.

GET IT DONE!

Best in the AFC

AFC seasons past have been characterized by dominant teams. The Tom Brady-led Patriots. The Peyton Manning Colts. The smashmouth Steelers. Along with these perennial winners, other teams have cycled in showing some dominating seasons over the course of the last ten years (Ravens, Chargers, Titans to name a few). It seems as though each of the past few years, we have watched as an AFC team flirts with perfection. This year however, no AFC teams have emerged from the pack as dominating.

Even though the Jets & Patriots sit atop the pack at 8-2, each has not given fans a reason to proclaim them the favorite. The Steelers, Ravens, and Colts have flirted at times with being the top AFC dog, but have also sputtered in other spots. Other teams with roles worth mentioning are the overachievers (Chiefs & Raiders), the red hots (Jaguars), the underachievers (Chargers & Titans).

The parity in the AFC this year is unlike any year we have seen in recent memory. If the Chargers pull off a win tonight – as predicted by the pre-game “vibe” of this blogger, the AFC would have an incomparable 11 teams with a .500 or better record. You read that right. ELEVEN out of SIXTEEN. 

This blog will focus on the teams that appear to be the cream of the crop at this time. A discussion of the “others” will be included, as many of them must be considered factors in the race. Comments are always welcome!

One of these guys will lead the Pats to the AFC East title. Both have awful hair.

 NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (8-2)

What to like…

OK. I had to join the Brady-Bieber humor bandwagon (see pic). Insert Justin Bieber hair joke.

Would anyone who has an accurate read on this year’s Patriots please stand up? OK….sit down, you friggin' liars! We have watched this year as the Patriots dropped the early season “Best in the AFC” showdown to the Jets (who had dropped their own “Best in the AFC” showdown to Baltimore the week before). The Pats then went on a tear, ripping off 5 wins in a row, looking like champs. Consecutive signature wins over the aforementioned Ravens, the Chargers, and the Vikings (Randy Moss’s Vikings….err Brett Favre’s Vikings….err Brad Childress’s Vikings?). And then came the Browns game. The lowly Browns, with rookie Colt McCoy, unheralded Peyton Hillis, and no other offensive skill players worth mentioning (I can’t mention Ben Watson as a legitimate skill player and keep a straight face). They have since rebounded by shellacking the Pittsburgh Steelers and winning a marquee showdown with the Colts.

With their schedule to date, they are easily the most battle-tested team in the AFC, with quite inarguably the most battle-tested quarterback and most battle-tested head coach in recent memory. Tom Brady has a way of elevating the play of those around him. If they keep rolling, in a few weeks we will look back at this blog and scratch our heads at how PepeVibe did not designate them as the unquestioned cream of the crop.

What not to like…

Where is this magical bowl of pixie dust that Bill Belichik has? The Pats constantly add “no name” players to their mix, only to see them blossom into legitimate factors on their team. You could make the argument that aside from Tom Brady, all of their offensive “weapons” are Belichik creations – Wes Welker, BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Danny Woodhead, Julian Edelman. Welker is established, but are we really to believe that a Super Bowl Champion team will be led by a rushing attack of BJGE and Woodhead? It’s tough to ignore the success they have had so far. The Patriots are statistically the NFL’s highest scoring team. That said, they hold an unusual distinction of going this whole season so far with never once having a game’s leading receiver. When it’s time to step up and make plays in the passing game, will they have someone to answer the bell?

If there is one notable point of concern for this team, it is the team’s defense and special teams. Their defense ranks in the bottom half of the league in almost every defensive category. While they have some playmakers (Mayo, Merriweather & McCourty), they also have difficulty stopping the pass and have been susceptible to the big play. If anyone is going to beat the Pats, it will be via a solid air attack. The loss of Stephen Gostkowski hurts. He was not having his most consistent year, but had been more solid in the games leading up to his season-ending injury. Shayne Graham has traditionally been accurate, but is not going to help in the field position game with his kickoffs.

Predicted Record: 13-3 (1^st in AFC East…#1 seed in the AFC)

The Sanchize is starting to play with some serious chutzpah.

NEW YORK JETS (8-2)

What to like…

Rex Ryan. I’m on board with his style. If you’re not, it doesn’t matter because his players are. When the players buy in to the coach’s style and system, usually good things happen. Confidence and swagger is infectious, and the Jets are evidence of that in 2010.

The game is on the line in the fourth quarter. Your team needs to march down and score. Name your top 5 quarterbacks you would want leading your team. If Mark Sanchez isn’t on your list, you haven’t been paying attention this year. Sanchez has that intangible way of showing his team “I got this” in a big spot. His pocket presence has improved, and he makes quality decisions more often than not. His improvement this year can be evidenced by comparing his stat line with his line after 10 games in 2009.

2009: 1,791 yards, 10 TD, 16 INT

2010: 2,306 yards, 15 TD, 7 INT

LaDainian Tomlinson was jettisoned from San Diego as slower, injury prone, ineffective, and washed up. He averaged 3.8 and 3.3 yards per carry, respectively, in his final two seasons in San Diego. The Jets took a flyer on him to add a veteran presence and to compliment “lead back” Shonn Greene. After 10 games, it’s Greene who is doing the complimenting. LT has averaged a robust 4.5 yards per carry in racking up nearly 700 rushing yards. Moreover, he has rediscovered his passing game prowess, leading the team in receptions with 43. If the Jets are going to win the AFC, they will need LT to remain healthy and their defense to step up.

As a final note, if Santonio Holmes continues at his current pace (and stays away from Mary Jane), he could be one of the great offseason acquisitions in recent memory – traded to the Jets for a 5^th round pick. Wow.

What not to like…

There is an enormous bulls-eye on their back. Everyone likes to think that professional athletes don’t ever need “extra” motivation to get amped up for a game. I’m not buying it. The “Hard Knocks” fallout is ongoing, and teams will be gunning for them the rest of the year to get a chance to shut Rex up.

In their remaining games, Braylon Edwards will drop at least one pass in a big spot that costs the Jets a game. Jets fans just have to hope it’s not in the playoffs.

  Their defense was dubbed “All-World” prior to this season, but has been remarkably ordinary. OK, so they’ve been above average and have even turned in an occasional dominating performance. But there are holes. They are there. If you want proof, see last week’s game when their defense collapsed in the 4^th quarter before getting bailed out by the offense.

Predicted Record: 11-5 (2^nd in AFC East…#5 seed in the AFC)

Explosive Rutgers product Ray Rice could be the key to the Ravens playoff run.

BALTIMORE RAVENS (7-3)

What to like…

Joe Flacco has really come into his own at quarterback for the Ravens. He’s making smart decisions, putting up numbers, and earning “W’s”. He’s got a few new toys to play with in Anquan Boldin and T.J. Houshmandzadeh, and Todd Heap has experienced a renaissance.

Ray Rice is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Even though he’s been slightly inconsistent this year, he still has a legitimate chance to approach last year’s production if he stays healthy and gets hot.

The Ravens traditionally have a good defense, and having Ed Reed healthy helps. He created an INT-to-lateral-to TD in last week’s game in Carolina. Vintage Ed Reed. Although not as dominant as some of their defenses of previous years, they are above average in a league with no “great” defenses.

Lastly, John Harbaugh can flat out coach. It’s rare that a guy replaces a Super Bowl winning coach (Brian Billick) and actually elevates the play of the team. The Ravens were in danger of fading back into the “Cleveland Browns Land of Mediocrity” before hiring Harbaugh as their head coach.

What not to like…

While young on offense (Flacco & Rice), the Ravens are getting older on defense. Haloti Ngata and Terrell Suggs provide some young playmaking ability, but it’s only a matter of time before Ray Lewis and Ed Reed succumb to old guy syndrome (losing a few steps). At this point, the Ravens are glad to just have Reed on the field.

Have had one of the most difficult schedules in the NFL this year, and it will wear this team down by the end of the year.  

Predicted Record: 10-6 (2^nd in AFC North…#6 seed in the AFC)

Who has 2 super bowl rings? This guy!

PITTSBURGH STEELERS (7-3)

What to like…

Ben Roethlisberger has never played this well in his career. Ever. He has found a consistent big play guy in Mike Wallace, while Rashard Mendenhall has proven that he can stay healthy. The Steelers have proven that they can put points up and move the ball through the passing game, but can also control the clock through the running game.

Mike Tomlin has a more reserved swagger than the aforementioned Rex Ryan, but has a swagger nonetheless. He exudes a sense of expectations for excellence and attention to detail. His players love playing for him and he demands their very best.

Their 3 losses are to high quality teams (BAL, NO, NE), and they have a quality win over Atlanta while beating the teams they are supposed to beat.

What not to like…

Ben Roethlisberger. Just can’t get past the details of the club sexual assault story. Truly one of the guys I will never root for again.

Now on to their team. Their defense has been above average-to-outstanding for most of the year, but has had their hiccups. The Patriots hung 39 on them on primetime in Week 10. You have to ask yourself if Tom Brady & Company have the antidote to slow down the Steelers D. The Pats are one of the only teams this year that have been able to run the ball on Pittsburgh…and they are not a running team.

Depth is a question in some spots. Hines Ward is aging and has been banged up. Can you name another WR on their team besides Mike Wallace? What’s that, Antwaan Randle-El you say? Let me remind you that it’s not 2003 anymore. By doing this blog, I just found out that Arnaz Battle is on their roster. How ‘bout that? If Rashard Mendenhall gets hurt, they are screwed.

Predicted Record: 11-5 (1^st in AFC North…#2 seed in the AFC)

"Pocket Hercules" is feelin' the MoJo right now.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (6-4)

What to like…

Slice it any way you want. MJD is just money. He’s been inconsistent at times this year, but “Pocket Hercules” is one of the few players in the NFL capable of dominating a game.

The Jags are on a 3-game winning streak and have shown how dangerous they can be with an effective passing game. This has been one of the great turnaround stories of this NFL season. The Jags QB situation was so bad that they started “Trentative” Edwards in one game and HS quarterbacks coach Todd Bouman in another. Since Garrard has returned healthy, their offense has exploded. Garrard is staking claim to the job beyond this year, and has turned Marcedes Lewis into a Pro Bowl-caliber tight end.

The Jags have their mojo working right now, and are one “signature” win away from being in the discussion of contenders. A win over the Giants this week could serve that purpose.

What not to like…

David Garrard, as well as he has played, will always be a question mark. Rarely do 32 year-old quarterbacks who have been historically mediocre undergo a renaissance that lasts more than a few games. Garrard will be looking to do just that. I just think it’s pie in the sky to expect him to keep rolling, and Jags fans know that. Right now they have to feel like they are waiting for the carriage to turn back into a pumpkin.

Although they have had some good games, I do not have a lot of confidence in their defense to come up with big plays when the game or season is on the line.

Their fan base is just – well, awful. They can’t sell tickets and appear to be on their way out of Jacksonville. A team like them needs to generate and rely on momentum, and a rabid fan base helps in that regard. They do not have such a fan base.   

IF they get by the G-men this week, they could extend their streak to 6 with some cushy matchups going into a Week 15 showdown with the Colts. Make no bones about it. The AFC South Title goes through Indianapolis.

Predicted Record: 9-7 (2^nd in AFC South…miss playoffs)

Hank Baskett wonders: "How come Peyton couldn't turn me into a star?"

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (6-4)

What to like…

Peyton Manning is on their team. See the capsule on the New England Patriots and the discussion about how Tom Brady makes everyone around him better. Replace Welker, Green-Ellis, Edelman and Woodhead with Collie, Garcon, Tamme, and Blair White. The same observation applies. I feel like if things could’ve broken a different way for “bust” 1^st round-pick wide receivers like Troy Williamson, Freddie Mitchell, or Reggie Williams, they could’ve been household names. If I were a marginal free agent wide receiver, I’d give my right arm to play for the Colts. But I guess I wouldn’t be much of a receiver, what with one arm and all. (….I’d still be better than Freddie Mitchell). The only receiver immune to the Peyton Manning effect that I can think of is Hank Baskett. But hey, it’s hard to hate on a man who’s married to Kendra.

The Colts can’t run the ball or play any defense (see below), but are always in the game because of their All-Pro quarterback.

What not to like…

Is Jim Caldwell a good coach? I don’t think anyone knows. The best I can give you is that he hasn’t managed to screw much up or get in Peyton Manning’s way since arriving in town. He had a 14-2 season in his first year, and has managed a 6-4 mark this year while battling key injuries. Will he thrive in a big spot, or will he be exposed as just the shepherd tending to Peyton Manning’s herd?

Joseph Addai being out really hurts. Mike Hart did a nice job filling in, but now he’s hurt. Donald Brown pretty much looks like a first round bust, and runs with no zip or authority. Javarris James is a short yardage back who warrants no more than 5 touches per game. They may need to utilize the short passing game to circumvent the need for a running game.

On a good day (with the scouts watching), I feel like I could rush for 100 yards against the Colts. Arian Foster will be sending them a Christmas card this year. Jacksonville poses a serious threat to them if they continue their hot streak. If MJD runs wild (and they are able to keep the ball out of Peyton’s hands), the Jags could give the Colts fits. With Foster, MJD, and CJ2K in their division, it’s a miracle the Colts are able to consistently win the AFC South. Maybe this is the year they don’t. The Jags are in first as of this blog.

Predicted Record: 10-6 (1^st in AFC South…#3 seed AFC playoffs)

The Chiefs aren't going anywhere with Matt Cassel at QB.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (6-4)

What to like…

There really isn’t much I like about the Chiefs. They are winning the games they are supposed to win. They can run the ball pretty well, and Dwayne Bowe is the hottest receiver in the NFL right now.

I think on the whole Todd Haley is a good coach, and he has assembled a nice staff. I’m just not convinced that they are a playoff team right now. Maybe they can get hot, win some games, and prove me wrong. Maybe they are catching my blog at a bad time (demoralized by the Broncos 2 weeks ago….beat the Cardinals last week). If you don’t catch my drift, the Cardinals suck, and a win over them does not impress me.

That said, they have a very favorable schedule down the stretch with 3 winnable home games and road games in Seattle, St. Louis, and San Diego. They will have to hold off a hard-charging (no pun intended) Chargers team.

What not to like…

Matt Cassel’s just not going to get it done. The best thing he has going for him is that he is not Brodie Croyle.  The Chiefs have often run gadget plays as their “go to” plays in running their offense this year, and a major reason why is that Cassel is incapable of making them an offensive threat. I often think they should line up Jamaal Charles at QB and run their offense with him and Jones in the backfield. But then I guess they’d have to get it to Dwayne Bowe somehow.

Prediction: 9-7 (2^nd in AFC West….miss playoffs)

“THE REST”

Will Ronnie Brown continue to annoy Dolphins fans the way Roni Deutch annoys the human race?

MIAMI DOLPHINS (5-5)

The Dolphins have showed signs of life this year, but unfortunately it’s not the right kind of life. Chad Henne has been dreadful after a promising 2009. Now that he is banged up, the Dolphins may have to turn to Tyler Thigpen at quarterback. That’s not something any team wants written about them. Ronnie Brown runs the ball like Roni Deutch (bah-zing!) and they do not get Ricky involved enough. I love Tony Sparano, but the Dolphins will be on the outside looking in this year. Prediction: 8-8 (3^rd in AFC East…miss playoffs)



Are the Raiders cursed by "un-slighty righty" draft bust JaMarcus Russell?

OAKLAND RAIDERS (5-5)

The Raiders have some good wins, but they lost to the San Francisco Deep6ers this year. In case you don’t understand the humor, Wikipedia says that the expression “Deep Six” means:

“A nautical expression indicating a water depth of 6 fathoms (36 feet) as measured by a sounding line; "deep six" acquired its idiomatic definition from the fact that something thrown overboard at or greater than this depth would be difficult if not impossible to recover.”

Translation, the 49ers suck and any team that loses to them is not going to the playoffs. Prediction: 7-9 (3^rd in AFC West….miss playoffs)

In Rusty they trust...

TENESSEE TITANS (5-5)

The Titans have had games in which they’ve looked like they were among the cream of the crop…and they’ve had games in which they’ve looked like they were the cream of mushroom (no charge for these zingers guys).

Vince Young is a disaster and will soon etch his name in the annals (or is it anals?) of history next to names such as JaMarcus Russell, Akili Smith, Ryan Leaf, and Tim Couch. Even Randy Moss knows that you don’t disrespect Jeff Fisher like he did. He will turn up someday as a quarterbacks coach at West Texas State University or something.

With VY now out for the year and Kerry Collins in bad shape. The Titans are prepared to turn to Rusty Smith at QB. Yeah, that’s really his name. Sounds like the punchline to a bad joke (Rusty “Trombone” Smith) or like he should be quarterbacking a team in a made-for-TV football movie.

The Titans have lost 3 in a row and face a tough schedule down the stretch. Rusty or no Rusty. Prediction: 8-8 (3^rd in AFC South…miss playoffs)

Damn. I can't stand this guy. But damn, is he good. Who the hell makes a face like this?

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (4-5)

Boy, do I loathe Phillip Rivers. His arrogance without substance (The Chargers have rarely won in a big spot), is rivaled only by the Bears’ Jay Cutler. The difference is that Phillip Rivers is actually good. Really good.

I’m including the Chargers in this blog in anticipation of them winning tonight’s MNF game against Denver. The Chargers are starting to peak. At the same time, the AFC West early season overachievers (Chiefs, Raiders) are starting to come back down to Earth. The Chargers lack a dominant, clock controlling rushing attack, but Rivers is going to finish with Dan Marino numbers. The Chargers have a nice schedule, and I predict they will make a run and sneak into the playoffs. Prediction: 10-6 (1^st in AFC West…#4 seed in AFC)

___________________________________________________

PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS (as of Week 11):

Wild Card Round

#5 Jets over #4 Chargers

#3 Colts over #6 Ravens

Divisional Round

#1 Patriots over #5 Jets

#2 Steelers over #3 Colts

AFC Championship

#1 Patriots over #2 Steelers

SUPER BOWL XLV

New England Patriots over Atlanta Falcons