NFL Nation: Brian Westbrook
Does LeSean McCoy's deal help Ray Rice?
May, 17, 2012
May 17
7:58
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
The Eagles signed running back LeSean McCoy to a five-year, $45 million extension Thursday evening, $20.76 million of which is guaranteed. This continues to provide a framework of the market value for running backs, but this deal might not accelerate the signing of Ravens running back Ray Rice.
Rice
McCoyThe problem is the disparity between the tiers for running backs. McCoy's deal is in line with the second tier like the Texans' Arian Foster (five years, $43.5 million, with $20.75 million guaranteed). But Rice could be shooting for the top tier that includes the Vikings' Adrian Peterson (seven years with $36 million guaranteed) and the Titans' Chris Johnson (six years with $30 million guaranteed).
What will likely get a deal done is finding a middle ground. Rice doesn't belong at the top of the pay scale because he hasn't averaged 13 rushing touchdowns over five seasons like Peterson and he doesn't have a 2,000-yard rushing season on his resume like Johnson.
But, based on the statistics, Rice deserves to get paid more than Foster and McCoy. In his three seasons as the featured back, Rice has produced 5,885 total yards, an average of 1,962 yards per season. That tops the three-year total yards by Foster (4,411) and McCoy (4,241).
That's why a five-year extension with $25 million guaranteed would be a fair deal for Rice.
Rice is currently scheduled to make $7.7 million this season as the Ravens' franchise player. If the sides can't reach a new deal by July 16, Rice will have to play this season under the tag.
He has yet to sign his tender and could skip training camp. Keeping in shape while working out on his own is not a concern for Rice.
"Training is something that I never worried about," Rice told the Carroll County (Md.) Times last weekend. "It's something that you got to want. I actually have the burning to desire to come back, not only for myself, but to come back ready to play. My training has always been part of my routine."
Rice has been training with former Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook.
"Nobody ever had to beat me in the head to get up and work out," Rice said. "Anybody who knows about my workout regimen, I've probably been through two before noon. Training has never been my issues but obviously, the team camaraderie, the lockout and all that stuff, that's the stuff that you kind of miss with the guys. But as far as being ready, I know I'll be ready."
What will likely get a deal done is finding a middle ground. Rice doesn't belong at the top of the pay scale because he hasn't averaged 13 rushing touchdowns over five seasons like Peterson and he doesn't have a 2,000-yard rushing season on his resume like Johnson.
But, based on the statistics, Rice deserves to get paid more than Foster and McCoy. In his three seasons as the featured back, Rice has produced 5,885 total yards, an average of 1,962 yards per season. That tops the three-year total yards by Foster (4,411) and McCoy (4,241).
That's why a five-year extension with $25 million guaranteed would be a fair deal for Rice.
Rice is currently scheduled to make $7.7 million this season as the Ravens' franchise player. If the sides can't reach a new deal by July 16, Rice will have to play this season under the tag.
He has yet to sign his tender and could skip training camp. Keeping in shape while working out on his own is not a concern for Rice.
"Training is something that I never worried about," Rice told the Carroll County (Md.) Times last weekend. "It's something that you got to want. I actually have the burning to desire to come back, not only for myself, but to come back ready to play. My training has always been part of my routine."
Rice has been training with former Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook.
"Nobody ever had to beat me in the head to get up and work out," Rice said. "Anybody who knows about my workout regimen, I've probably been through two before noon. Training has never been my issues but obviously, the team camaraderie, the lockout and all that stuff, that's the stuff that you kind of miss with the guys. But as far as being ready, I know I'll be ready."
Four 1,100-yard rushers in one division?
December, 7, 2011
12/07/11
12:15
PM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
Passing is generally the key to victory in the NFL.
This helps explain why quarterbacks earn the most money, why teams often draft pass-blocking tackles over top runners and why fullbacks have become endangered.
Teams still value running the ball, of course. Defenses would have an easier time defending quarterbacks if they knew with certainty a run was not coming. And every team seeking support for young or average quarterbacks would be better off with a strong ground game.
NFC West teams fall into this group. Each team in the division is on pace to produce a 1,000-yard runner.
One division has produced four 1,000-yard rushers in a season five times since divisional realignment in 2002. Each NFC West team's leading rusher is on pace for at least 1,100 yards. Only one division, the AFC North in 2010, has produced four players with at least 1,100 yards since realignment.
Frank Gore's yardage production for the 49ers has leveled off in recent weeks. Continued strong defense and increased production from quarterback Alex Smith have helped the team keep winning. Facing two backup quarterbacks -- Arizona's John Skelton and St. Louis' A.J. Feeley -- simultaneously lowered the bar for the 49ers in recent weeks.
I would expect the Seattle Seahawks' Marshawn Lynch to gain the most rushing yardage in Week 14 among NFC West backs. Seattle wants to field a run-first offense, which makes sense this week.
The Rams rank second in most sacks per pass attempt, a threat now that Seattle's best pass protector, Russell Okung, has landed on injured reserve. The Rams are averaging fewer than one offensive touchdown per game. That gives Seattle a good chance to win without taking as many chances through the air. The Rams have allowed more rushing yards than any team in the NFL.
Note: With an assist from Anicra in the comments, I updated the projected totals for Jackson, Lynch and Wells to reflect their participation in only 11 games this season. I had previously divided their rushing totals by total team games (12 apiece), using the average to project totals for the remaining four games.
This helps explain why quarterbacks earn the most money, why teams often draft pass-blocking tackles over top runners and why fullbacks have become endangered.
Teams still value running the ball, of course. Defenses would have an easier time defending quarterbacks if they knew with certainty a run was not coming. And every team seeking support for young or average quarterbacks would be better off with a strong ground game.
NFC West teams fall into this group. Each team in the division is on pace to produce a 1,000-yard runner.
One division has produced four 1,000-yard rushers in a season five times since divisional realignment in 2002. Each NFC West team's leading rusher is on pace for at least 1,100 yards. Only one division, the AFC North in 2010, has produced four players with at least 1,100 yards since realignment.
Frank Gore's yardage production for the 49ers has leveled off in recent weeks. Continued strong defense and increased production from quarterback Alex Smith have helped the team keep winning. Facing two backup quarterbacks -- Arizona's John Skelton and St. Louis' A.J. Feeley -- simultaneously lowered the bar for the 49ers in recent weeks.
I would expect the Seattle Seahawks' Marshawn Lynch to gain the most rushing yardage in Week 14 among NFC West backs. Seattle wants to field a run-first offense, which makes sense this week.
The Rams rank second in most sacks per pass attempt, a threat now that Seattle's best pass protector, Russell Okung, has landed on injured reserve. The Rams are averaging fewer than one offensive touchdown per game. That gives Seattle a good chance to win without taking as many chances through the air. The Rams have allowed more rushing yards than any team in the NFL.
Note: With an assist from Anicra in the comments, I updated the projected totals for Jackson, Lynch and Wells to reflect their participation in only 11 games this season. I had previously divided their rushing totals by total team games (12 apiece), using the average to project totals for the remaining four games.
2011 NFL age ranks: Calling all graybeards
August, 25, 2011
8/25/11
8:20
PM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
A few thoughts on NFC West rosters after calculating age ranks for NFL teams based on the rosters I maintain:
I've sprouted a couple new gray hairs just typing in some of these names. Might be time to squeeze in an afternoon workout.
- The chart ranks teams from oldest to youngest, excluding special-teams players who can sometimes play into their 40s. The first column shows overall rank, counting offensive and defensive players. The third and fourth columns show where teams rank on each side of the ball. These are for starters and backups. In some cases, teams might plan to release older backups on the reduction to 53 players.
- Arizona Cardinals: Earlier in the preseason, Kevin Kolb referred to the Cardinals as a young team. They do have young players, some of whom played extensively last season and should be better for it. But the Cardinals have the sixth-oldest roster in the league overall. Vonnie Holliday (35), Clark Haggans (34), Joey Porter (34), Paris Lenon (33), Floyd Womack (32), Adrian Wilson (31), Todd Heap (31) and Nick Eason (31) are some of them. The team has also favored veteran offensive linemen, including veteran backups.
- St. Louis Rams: The Rams got older on purpose, adding seasoning to their defense through players added on one-year deals. Al Harris (36) is the oldest non-specialist on the team. James Hall (34) and Fred Robbins (34) remain valuable contributors. Both start. Rookie Robert Quinn will likely replace Hall at some point. Drafting a defensive tackle in the first round of the 2012 draft could make sense, too. Some of the Rams' additions could come at the expense of incumbent veterans such as Hank Fraley (34 next month) and Na'il Diggs (33).
- San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers have gotten younger this offseason, particularly on defense. They subtracted Takeo Spikes (34), Aubrayo Franklin (31 this week), Travis LaBoy (30), Brian Westbrook, Nate Clements (31), Brian Westbrook (32 next month), William James (32), Barry Sims (36) and Demetric Evans (32 next month).. Fulback Moran Norris (33) is their oldest non-specialist. The team has only six non-specialists in their 30s, half as many as the Cardinals have.
- Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks have been getting younger by design over the past two seasons. Like the 49ers, they have only six non-specialists in their 30s, with none older than 33 (Raheem Brock). They have subtracted Sean Locklear (30), Matt Hasselbeck (36 next month), Stacy Andrews (30), J.P. Losman (30), Brandon Stokley (35), Lawyer Milloy (37), Chester Pitts (32) and Craig Terrill (31). Most general managers want to make their teams younger when starting out. In Seattle, the head coach is also amendable to that approach. But a few players such as Brock (33), Junior Siavii (32), Colin Cole (31), Marcus Trufant (30) and Atari Bigby (30 next month) have kept the Seahawks defensive ranking from sinking further. Seattle is 16th oldest on that side of the ball.
I've sprouted a couple new gray hairs just typing in some of these names. Might be time to squeeze in an afternoon workout.
Cardinals fearing worst for Ryan Williams
August, 20, 2011
8/20/11
12:32
AM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
The Arizona Cardinals think rookie running back Ryan Williams tore a patella tendon in his right knee.
That was the preliminary word from coach Ken Whisenhunt following the Cardinals' 28-20 preseason defeat at Green Bay on Friday night. Williams would miss the 2011 season if that were the case. He would then face a grueling rehabilitation.
St. Louis Rams running back Cadillac Williams has had torn patella injuries, one to each knee, while with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He returned the next season in each case and hasn't missed a game over the past two seasons.
This would be a costly injury for the Cardinals because their other primary back, Beanie Wells, remains unproven. Wells has also missed time with injuries during his two seasons in the NFL.
The Cardinals used a second-round draft choice on Williams this offseason. Whisenhunt said they had him rated as one of the 15 best players available. Williams did not disappoint during training camp, either. He showed an ability to change directions without sacrificing much speed. I thought he had a chance to supplant Wells in the starting lineup at some point during this season.
This injury could lead to more playing time for LaRod Stephens-Howling. The Cardinals have used Stephens-Howling increasingly over the past couple seasons, sometimes with three wide receivers and another running back.
Arizona has stocked up on tight ends this offseason, giving the team additional flexibility with its personnel groups. But just about every grouping includes at least one running back. Wells hasn't been consistent in pass protection and he missed a block against Green Bay.
Among the running backs available: Laurence Maroney, Kenneth Darby, Julius Jones and Brian Westbrook.
That was the preliminary word from coach Ken Whisenhunt following the Cardinals' 28-20 preseason defeat at Green Bay on Friday night. Williams would miss the 2011 season if that were the case. He would then face a grueling rehabilitation.
St. Louis Rams running back Cadillac Williams has had torn patella injuries, one to each knee, while with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He returned the next season in each case and hasn't missed a game over the past two seasons.
This would be a costly injury for the Cardinals because their other primary back, Beanie Wells, remains unproven. Wells has also missed time with injuries during his two seasons in the NFL.
The Cardinals used a second-round draft choice on Williams this offseason. Whisenhunt said they had him rated as one of the 15 best players available. Williams did not disappoint during training camp, either. He showed an ability to change directions without sacrificing much speed. I thought he had a chance to supplant Wells in the starting lineup at some point during this season.
This injury could lead to more playing time for LaRod Stephens-Howling. The Cardinals have used Stephens-Howling increasingly over the past couple seasons, sometimes with three wide receivers and another running back.
Arizona has stocked up on tight ends this offseason, giving the team additional flexibility with its personnel groups. But just about every grouping includes at least one running back. Wells hasn't been consistent in pass protection and he missed a block against Green Bay.
Among the running backs available: Laurence Maroney, Kenneth Darby, Julius Jones and Brian Westbrook.
Mark Ingram's speed should scare Dolphins
March, 10, 2011
3/10/11
3:39
PM ET
By Tim Graham | ESPN.com
Football Outsiders have a warning for the Miami Dolphins: Don't draft Mark Ingram.
That's a contrarian viewpoint, to be sure. Everyone from Mel Kiper Jr. to my Aunt Kathy thinks the Dolphins will use their 15th pick on Ingram if the 2009 Heisman Trophy winner still is on the board.
But Football Outsiders managing editor Bill Barnwell asserts that drafting Ingram would be a bad idea, 
even though the Dolphins probably will need a running back and Ingram is considered the best in this year's draft class.
Barnwell compiled 40-yard dash times from the NFL scouting combine and plugged them into Football Outsiders' metric known as Speed Score. The formula takes a 40 time and puts it into context with the player's weight to determine a more usable figure.
The average Speed Score for a first-round running back is 112. Ingram's 4.62 time and 215-pound frame worked out to a 94.4 Speed Score, ranking 20th among the running backs at this year's combine. Ingram did run the 40-yard dash in about 4.55 seconds at his pro day this week.
Barnwell noted that some star running backs have posted numbers below 100, but they add versatility when it comes to receiving or blocking. Brian Westbrook scored a 91.7. Ray Rice registered a 99.7.
Since 1999 -- the earliest year of Football Outsiders data on Speed Scores -- no running back drafted in the first round had a lower Speed Score than the 96.9 Denver Broncos running back Knowshon Moreno posted two years ago.
"While Moreno was seen as a supremely versatile back, Ingram is being lauded primarily for his abilities as a runner," Barnwell wrote. "In fact, the only two backs to emerge as viable pro starters since 1999 with a Speed Score below 95.0 are Westbrook and Ahmad Bradshaw. The odds are certainly against Ingram being the third."
Barnwell mentioned a few examples of how Speed Score has identified value.
William Green scored a 98.7 before the Cleveland Browns drafted him 16th in 2002. Trung Canidate came in at 99.3 before the St. Louis Rams took him 31st in 2000. The jury's still out on Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller, but he had a below average 107.5 score before getting drafted ninth.
Examples of good value from last year: Green Bay Packers sixth-round pick James Starks at 106.3 and undrafted Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie LeGarrette Blount at 105.8.
That's a contrarian viewpoint, to be sure. Everyone from Mel Kiper Jr. to my Aunt Kathy thinks the Dolphins will use their 15th pick on Ingram if the 2009 Heisman Trophy winner still is on the board.
[+] Enlarge
Marvin Gentry/US PresswireMark Ingram improved on his 40 time at Alabama's pro day, clocking in at 4.55 seconds.
Marvin Gentry/US PresswireMark Ingram improved on his 40 time at Alabama's pro day, clocking in at 4.55 seconds. even though the Dolphins probably will need a running back and Ingram is considered the best in this year's draft class.
Barnwell compiled 40-yard dash times from the NFL scouting combine and plugged them into Football Outsiders' metric known as Speed Score. The formula takes a 40 time and puts it into context with the player's weight to determine a more usable figure.
The average Speed Score for a first-round running back is 112. Ingram's 4.62 time and 215-pound frame worked out to a 94.4 Speed Score, ranking 20th among the running backs at this year's combine. Ingram did run the 40-yard dash in about 4.55 seconds at his pro day this week.
Barnwell noted that some star running backs have posted numbers below 100, but they add versatility when it comes to receiving or blocking. Brian Westbrook scored a 91.7. Ray Rice registered a 99.7.
Since 1999 -- the earliest year of Football Outsiders data on Speed Scores -- no running back drafted in the first round had a lower Speed Score than the 96.9 Denver Broncos running back Knowshon Moreno posted two years ago.
"While Moreno was seen as a supremely versatile back, Ingram is being lauded primarily for his abilities as a runner," Barnwell wrote. "In fact, the only two backs to emerge as viable pro starters since 1999 with a Speed Score below 95.0 are Westbrook and Ahmad Bradshaw. The odds are certainly against Ingram being the third."
Barnwell mentioned a few examples of how Speed Score has identified value.
William Green scored a 98.7 before the Cleveland Browns drafted him 16th in 2002. Trung Canidate came in at 99.3 before the St. Louis Rams took him 31st in 2000. The jury's still out on Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller, but he had a below average 107.5 score before getting drafted ninth.
Examples of good value from last year: Green Bay Packers sixth-round pick James Starks at 106.3 and undrafted Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie LeGarrette Blount at 105.8.
Sean writes via Facebook: Mike, yesterday on 710ESPN here in Seattle, Brock and Salk had a guest talking about the number of free agents this year is around 500, which is more than double most years because of the amount of unrestricted free agents last offseason. Seattle has 27 going into this offseason. Is it a disadvantage or advantage with the free-agent pool as large as it is to have a lot of free agents this offseason? Also, how many does San Francisco have?
Mike Sando: There are a few key points to keep in mind here. One, there is no free agency without a new labor agreement. Two, the next labor agreement will define terms for free agents. About 500 players with four accrued seasons could become unrestricted under the previous system. Another roughly 100 players will have three accrued seasons.
Teams have had a long time to anticipate a work stoppage. It's never a good time to have a long list of good players without contracts. But in most cases, teams have already re-signed the players they think they absolutely have to keep. Some teams have a long list of free agents by design. I would put Seattle in that category.
The Seahawks promoted competition during the 2010 season by shortening contracts in a few cases. They re-signed a couple players they wanted to target, but overall, I think they feel just fine going into the labor period with unsigned players. The number you cited -- 27 -- is in the right ballpark. The totals are unofficial until the league releases its annual list.
The 49ers have a shorter projected list featuring five starters from last season: Takeo Spikes, Aubrayo Franklin, Manny Lawson, Alex Smith and Dashon Goldson.
I've put together an initial list of 25 projected NFC West free agents to watch. These are not necessarily ranked in order of abilities. A couple "name" players did not make the list.
Mike Sando: There are a few key points to keep in mind here. One, there is no free agency without a new labor agreement. Two, the next labor agreement will define terms for free agents. About 500 players with four accrued seasons could become unrestricted under the previous system. Another roughly 100 players will have three accrued seasons.
Teams have had a long time to anticipate a work stoppage. It's never a good time to have a long list of good players without contracts. But in most cases, teams have already re-signed the players they think they absolutely have to keep. Some teams have a long list of free agents by design. I would put Seattle in that category.
The Seahawks promoted competition during the 2010 season by shortening contracts in a few cases. They re-signed a couple players they wanted to target, but overall, I think they feel just fine going into the labor period with unsigned players. The number you cited -- 27 -- is in the right ballpark. The totals are unofficial until the league releases its annual list.
The 49ers have a shorter projected list featuring five starters from last season: Takeo Spikes, Aubrayo Franklin, Manny Lawson, Alex Smith and Dashon Goldson.
I've put together an initial list of 25 projected NFC West free agents to watch. These are not necessarily ranked in order of abilities. A couple "name" players did not make the list.
Thoughts on the San Francisco 49ers' 38-7 victory over the Arizona Cardinals at Candlestick Park in Week 17:
What it means: The Cardinals (5-11) emerged from this game with the fifth overall choice in the 2011 NFL draft after Denver lost to San Diego, ensuring the Broncos would pick ahead of Arizona. The 49ers (6-10) could wind up tied with Seattle for the seventh choice if the Seahawks also finish with a 6-10 record. A coin toss held at the scouting combine would break any tie for draft positioning. The Cardinals' poor showing on offense should prevent anyone from thinking rookie quarterback John Skelton should go into next season as a candidate to start.
Update on strength of schedule: The New York Giants' victory Sunday would leave Seattle with the tougher strength of schedule relative to San Francisco, should the Seahawks and 49ers tie in draft order. The 49ers played Philadelphia (10-6) and Green Bay (10-6) while the Seahawks played Chicago (11-5) and the Giants (10-6). All other opponents were the same.
What I liked: The 49ers' best players on offense made big plays. Vernon Davis got loose for a 59-yard touchdown reception. Ted Ginn Jr. caught a 37-yard scoring pass, providing what the 49ers expected to see throughout the season, but did not. Receiver Josh Morgan extended to make a grab for a 32-yard reception. Quarterback Alex Smith averaged 11.7 yards per attempt and Brian Westbrook scored twice as the 49ers built a 31-7 lead. On defense, the 49ers dominated even without injured inside linebacker Patrick Willis. Justin Smith, always a tough matchup for the Cardinals, padded his Pro Bowl credentials with three sacks. For Arizona, there wasn't much, but at least receiver Larry Fitzgerald factored more prominently into the offense.
What I didn't like: The Cardinals got blown out twice by a 49ers team that was bad enough to cost Mike Singletary his job as head coach. John Skelton passed for 92 yards on 25 attempts, taking four sacks to go with his 3.7-yard average per attempt. Richard Bartel came into the game and served up an interception for a touchdown.
Tomorrow's Talker: Which quarterbacks will be leading these teams next season? The 49ers will have a better idea once they hire a head coach. The Cardinals' leadership has had months to consider its options after failing to adequately prepare for life after Kurt Warner.
What's next: Both teams will be watching the playoffs from afar.
What it means: The Cardinals (5-11) emerged from this game with the fifth overall choice in the 2011 NFL draft after Denver lost to San Diego, ensuring the Broncos would pick ahead of Arizona. The 49ers (6-10) could wind up tied with Seattle for the seventh choice if the Seahawks also finish with a 6-10 record. A coin toss held at the scouting combine would break any tie for draft positioning. The Cardinals' poor showing on offense should prevent anyone from thinking rookie quarterback John Skelton should go into next season as a candidate to start.
Update on strength of schedule: The New York Giants' victory Sunday would leave Seattle with the tougher strength of schedule relative to San Francisco, should the Seahawks and 49ers tie in draft order. The 49ers played Philadelphia (10-6) and Green Bay (10-6) while the Seahawks played Chicago (11-5) and the Giants (10-6). All other opponents were the same.
What I liked: The 49ers' best players on offense made big plays. Vernon Davis got loose for a 59-yard touchdown reception. Ted Ginn Jr. caught a 37-yard scoring pass, providing what the 49ers expected to see throughout the season, but did not. Receiver Josh Morgan extended to make a grab for a 32-yard reception. Quarterback Alex Smith averaged 11.7 yards per attempt and Brian Westbrook scored twice as the 49ers built a 31-7 lead. On defense, the 49ers dominated even without injured inside linebacker Patrick Willis. Justin Smith, always a tough matchup for the Cardinals, padded his Pro Bowl credentials with three sacks. For Arizona, there wasn't much, but at least receiver Larry Fitzgerald factored more prominently into the offense.
What I didn't like: The Cardinals got blown out twice by a 49ers team that was bad enough to cost Mike Singletary his job as head coach. John Skelton passed for 92 yards on 25 attempts, taking four sacks to go with his 3.7-yard average per attempt. Richard Bartel came into the game and served up an interception for a touchdown.
Tomorrow's Talker: Which quarterbacks will be leading these teams next season? The 49ers will have a better idea once they hire a head coach. The Cardinals' leadership has had months to consider its options after failing to adequately prepare for life after Kurt Warner.
What's next: Both teams will be watching the playoffs from afar.
» NFC Stock Watch: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
FALLING
1. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks QB. Four INTs against San Francisco gave Hasselbeck eight picks in his last three games. The Seahawks probably wouldn't have beaten the 49ers even with a more efficient performance, but a little more regard for the football could have kept Seattle in the game. Another poor finish will not help Hasselbeck's long-term prospects, either. He has no contract for 2011.
2. Ted Ginn Jr., 49ers WR. Ginn impressed during training camp by repeatedly making catches deep downfield. It hasn't translated to the regular season. Two dropped passes during a three-play stretch against Seattle killed one 49ers drive. Ginn gained 3 yards on his only punt return.
3. Seattle's tackling. Coach Pete Carroll initially tried to blame poor footing at Candlestick Park as a factor contributing to the Seahawks' consistently horrendous tackling Sunday. That was a stretch. Lawyer Milloy bounced off Vernon Davis. Marcus Trufant missed Josh Morgan, allowing a touchdown. Earl Thomas missed Brian Westbrook, allowing a 62-yard touchdown. On and on it went.
RISING
1. Alex Smith, 49ers QB. Three TD passes without an INT helped the 49ers cruise past the Seahawks in a game San Francisco needed to win. Coach Mike Singletary used the word "decent" to describe Smith's performance, but that was underselling one of the better performances of the quarterback's career.
2. Adrian Wilson, Cardinals SS. Arizona coaches credited Wilson with 13 tackles, putting him over 100 in a season for the third time in his career and the first time since 2005. Rookie linebacker Daryl Washington would have earned a spot on the list if he hadn't fumbled short of the end zone while celebrating an interception return.
3. Tim Hightower, Cardinals RB. The 49ers' Westbrook deserves a mention here, too, after coming through with a 62-yard scoring catch and key contributions as a pass protector. Hightower trumped him for the third and final spot on the list by finishing with 18 carries for 148 yards and two scores.
Note: Cardinals kicker Jay Feely would have been an obvious choice here. Too obvious, in fact. I decided to spread the wealth after dedicating multiple previous items to Feely's 25-point performance against Denver.
FALLING
1. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks QB. Four INTs against San Francisco gave Hasselbeck eight picks in his last three games. The Seahawks probably wouldn't have beaten the 49ers even with a more efficient performance, but a little more regard for the football could have kept Seattle in the game. Another poor finish will not help Hasselbeck's long-term prospects, either. He has no contract for 2011.
2. Ted Ginn Jr., 49ers WR. Ginn impressed during training camp by repeatedly making catches deep downfield. It hasn't translated to the regular season. Two dropped passes during a three-play stretch against Seattle killed one 49ers drive. Ginn gained 3 yards on his only punt return.
3. Seattle's tackling. Coach Pete Carroll initially tried to blame poor footing at Candlestick Park as a factor contributing to the Seahawks' consistently horrendous tackling Sunday. That was a stretch. Lawyer Milloy bounced off Vernon Davis. Marcus Trufant missed Josh Morgan, allowing a touchdown. Earl Thomas missed Brian Westbrook, allowing a 62-yard touchdown. On and on it went.
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Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesAlex Smith tossed three touchdown passes in the 49ers' victory over Seattle.
Jed Jacobsohn/Getty ImagesAlex Smith tossed three touchdown passes in the 49ers' victory over Seattle.1. Alex Smith, 49ers QB. Three TD passes without an INT helped the 49ers cruise past the Seahawks in a game San Francisco needed to win. Coach Mike Singletary used the word "decent" to describe Smith's performance, but that was underselling one of the better performances of the quarterback's career.
2. Adrian Wilson, Cardinals SS. Arizona coaches credited Wilson with 13 tackles, putting him over 100 in a season for the third time in his career and the first time since 2005. Rookie linebacker Daryl Washington would have earned a spot on the list if he hadn't fumbled short of the end zone while celebrating an interception return.
3. Tim Hightower, Cardinals RB. The 49ers' Westbrook deserves a mention here, too, after coming through with a 62-yard scoring catch and key contributions as a pass protector. Hightower trumped him for the third and final spot on the list by finishing with 18 carries for 148 yards and two scores.
Note: Cardinals kicker Jay Feely would have been an obvious choice here. Too obvious, in fact. I decided to spread the wealth after dedicating multiple previous items to Feely's 25-point performance against Denver.
» NFC Stock Watch: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
FALLING
1. Derek Anderson, Cardinals QB. Cue the video. Briefly laughing on the sideline during a blowout defeat wasn't nearly as bad as Anderson's reaction to questioning on the matter. Now there's a guy you'd better not cut off in traffic.
2. Pete Carroll, Seahawks coach. The team has rebuilt its roster before without losing consecutive home games by a combined 52 points (41-7 to the New York Giants and 42-24 to Kansas City). Only Carolina has lost consecutive home games by more points this season (65). Carroll's philosophy to "always compete" seemed to take a hit when the team knelt on the ball to run out the clock during its 18-point surrender to Kansas City. Before this season, the team had allowed 40-plus points at home only once during the regular season since Qwest Field opened in 2002.
3. Ken Whisenhunt, Cardinals coach. Losing at home by double-digit margins to average or below-average division rivals will drag down any coach's stock. Seattle and San Francisco have beaten the Cardinals by a combined 39 points in Arizona's past two home games. Arizona has lost six in a row overall. Four of the six defeats came against teams that currently have losing records. There are no indications the Cardinals have hit bottom. If Whisenhunt had the ability to stop this free-fall, he would have done it by now.
RISING
1. Brian Westbrook, 49ers RB. The 49ers did not view Westbrook as an every-down injury replacement for Frank Gore when they signed him. Westbrook ran effectively enough during a 27-6 victory at Arizona to command a full workload. Twenty-three carries for 136 yards showed Westbrook was ready when called upon. That one performance justified the decision to sign Westbrook.
2. Sam Bradford, Rams QB. Bradford's stock was already high, but its value shot up outside the St. Louis market when the Rams' rookie quarterback led the team to its first road victory of the season. Rams fans won't tire of reading about how Bradford became the first rookie in NFL history to throw for at least 300 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions in a road victory.
3. Chris Long, Rams DE. Long came through with two pivotal plays when the Rams needed them most in Denver. A double-digit lead was down to three points when Denver took over possession with one last shot to force overtime or win the game. Long's first-down sack and fourth-down quarterback hit helped St. Louis take a significant step.
FALLING
1. Derek Anderson, Cardinals QB. Cue the video. Briefly laughing on the sideline during a blowout defeat wasn't nearly as bad as Anderson's reaction to questioning on the matter. Now there's a guy you'd better not cut off in traffic.
2. Pete Carroll, Seahawks coach. The team has rebuilt its roster before without losing consecutive home games by a combined 52 points (41-7 to the New York Giants and 42-24 to Kansas City). Only Carolina has lost consecutive home games by more points this season (65). Carroll's philosophy to "always compete" seemed to take a hit when the team knelt on the ball to run out the clock during its 18-point surrender to Kansas City. Before this season, the team had allowed 40-plus points at home only once during the regular season since Qwest Field opened in 2002.
3. Ken Whisenhunt, Cardinals coach. Losing at home by double-digit margins to average or below-average division rivals will drag down any coach's stock. Seattle and San Francisco have beaten the Cardinals by a combined 39 points in Arizona's past two home games. Arizona has lost six in a row overall. Four of the six defeats came against teams that currently have losing records. There are no indications the Cardinals have hit bottom. If Whisenhunt had the ability to stop this free-fall, he would have done it by now.
RISING
1. Brian Westbrook, 49ers RB. The 49ers did not view Westbrook as an every-down injury replacement for Frank Gore when they signed him. Westbrook ran effectively enough during a 27-6 victory at Arizona to command a full workload. Twenty-three carries for 136 yards showed Westbrook was ready when called upon. That one performance justified the decision to sign Westbrook.
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Justin Edmonds/Getty ImagesSam Bradford threw for 308 yards and three scores in the Rams' win over the Broncos.
Justin Edmonds/Getty ImagesSam Bradford threw for 308 yards and three scores in the Rams' win over the Broncos.3. Chris Long, Rams DE. Long came through with two pivotal plays when the Rams needed them most in Denver. A double-digit lead was down to three points when Denver took over possession with one last shot to force overtime or win the game. Long's first-down sack and fourth-down quarterback hit helped St. Louis take a significant step.
NFC West High Energy Player of the Week
November, 30, 2010
11/30/10
3:00
PM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
» NFC High Energy: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
A look at a player who gave his team a significant boost in Week 12.
Setting aside this space for St. Louis Rams quarterback Sam Bradford seemed like a sure bet before Brian Westbrook's surprise 136-yard rushing performance for the San Francisco 49ers.
Bradford still came out OK.
Westbrook provided the more significant boost relative to expectations.
The 31-year-old running back had carried only five times for 9 yards this season before Frank Gore's hip injury forced the 49ers to alter course during the first quarter of their 27-6 victory over Arizona on Monday night. Westbrook posted the third-highest single-game rushing total of his career as the 49ers gained 261 yards on the ground.
"I felt good, I felt very young, I was fresh," Westbrook said.
Maintaining a similar level of performance across multiple games seems unrealistic. The 49ers will face tougher defenses. Teams will prepare for Westbrook's style. Westbrook won't be as fresh after taking punishment each week.
For one game, at least, Westbrook provided the boost his team needed.
A look at a player who gave his team a significant boost in Week 12.
Setting aside this space for St. Louis Rams quarterback Sam Bradford seemed like a sure bet before Brian Westbrook's surprise 136-yard rushing performance for the San Francisco 49ers.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Paul JasienskiBrian Westbrook rushed 23 times for 136 yards and one touchdown Monday night.
AP Photo/Paul JasienskiBrian Westbrook rushed 23 times for 136 yards and one touchdown Monday night.Westbrook provided the more significant boost relative to expectations.
The 31-year-old running back had carried only five times for 9 yards this season before Frank Gore's hip injury forced the 49ers to alter course during the first quarter of their 27-6 victory over Arizona on Monday night. Westbrook posted the third-highest single-game rushing total of his career as the 49ers gained 261 yards on the ground.
"I felt good, I felt very young, I was fresh," Westbrook said.
Maintaining a similar level of performance across multiple games seems unrealistic. The 49ers will face tougher defenses. Teams will prepare for Westbrook's style. Westbrook won't be as fresh after taking punishment each week.
For one game, at least, Westbrook provided the boost his team needed.
Mark J. Rebilas/US PresswireThe San Francisco 49ers put together their best effort of the season Monday night, but the victory turned out to be a costly one.This qualified as a graceful exit after Cardinals quarterback Derek Anderson stormed from his postgame interview session amid repeated questions about camera shots showing Anderson and Cardinals guard Deuce Lutui laughing on the sideline after the game was out of reach.
It's unlikely Anderson was laughing off the Cardinals' sixth consecutive defeat, but the sideline images did beg for context.
"Every single week I put my freaking heart and soul into this!" Anderson said. "I study my ass off. I don't go out there and laugh. It's not funny. Nothing's funny to me! I don't want to go out there and get embarrassed on Monday Night Football in front of everybody!"
The reporter again pressed for more details. Anderson was vague. The reporter tried again, seeking context for the sideline laughter.
Anderson offered one final answer before storming out.
"I'm done!"
At 3-8, so are the Cardinals. They made a strong case Monday night for an offseason roster overhaul, fumbling away their first snap and watching helplessly as San Francisco outgained them 261-13 on the ground.
The 49ers might be finished, too, after losing Gore to an injury that almost certainly will end his season. They put together their most dominating performance of the season in all phases of the game, improving to 4-7 while moving within one game of first place in the NFC West.
If only they could play Arizona every week instead of just one more time -- way down the line in Week 17, and only then after a stretch featuring road games against Green Bay, San Diego and St. Louis.
Brian Westbrook's surprising 23-carry, 136-yard performance behind an offensive line already missing left tackle Joe Staley showed the 49ers' resiliency and the Cardinals' futility.
"To say that I'm extremely disappointed would be an understatement," Arizona coach Ken Whisenhunt said.
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AP Photo/Matt YorkDerek Anderson and the Cardinals managed just 203 yards of offense against the 49ers.
AP Photo/Matt YorkDerek Anderson and the Cardinals managed just 203 yards of offense against the 49ers."Words can't explain how I feel about what the offensive line did," quarterback Troy Smith said. "When our unquestioned leader goes down, you definitely feel some type of sorrow about what's going on, but we had to keep pressing on."
That will be easier for the 49ers than it will be for Arizona. A trip inside the Cardinals' locker room is a journey in soul-searching. There's a lot more searching than finding.
Receiver Steve Breaston, the type of player organizations build around, sat on a stool before his locker and rambled.
"So, um, like, like I said, I think, like, I'm ready, I'm just sick of losing," Breaston said. "Right now, I said I wasn't going to talk about it, but I'm rambling so I really can't like, ever since I got here and I have never been a part of something like this ..."
At the other end of the locker room, Pro Bowl defensive lineman Darnell Dockett spent what seemed like 10 minutes putting on his tie and adjusting his collar using his one good arm. A shoulder injury has dogged Dockett recently. He's also noticed opponents stepping up their games against him now that Dockett has a Pro Bowl on his résumé and a lucrative contract.
"I'm so frustrated, I don't even know what to say," Dockett said.
Late in the second quarter and with the 49ers already leading 21-6, Dockett raised his hands to the crowd, imploring them to rain noise upon the 49ers' offense.
There was no response.
The 49ers, having lost Gore, handed off to the 31-year-old Westbrook. Rachal, the right guard, has struggled for the 49ers this season, but he turned Dockett outside and sent the Cardinals' best defensive player spinning face first onto the grass. Westbrook charged through the line for 6 yards and a first down.
It was that kind of night for the two-time defending NFC West champs. It's been that kind of season, too. They made the 49ers look like contenders. Of course, any NFC West team coming off a victory qualifies as one. The 49ers can get to 7-9 and give themselves a decent shot at the division title by winning their remaining games against NFC West opponents: vs. Seattle (Week 14), at St. Louis (Week 16) and when the Cardinals visit Candlestick.
"We can't think about the division, the conference, any of that," Westbrook said. "We have to focus on Green Bay and trying to get a win."
Update: 49ers say Gore has broken right hip
November, 30, 2010
11/30/10
12:54
AM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
GLENDALE, Ariz. -- That did not take long.
Moments after filing an item about the San Francisco 49ers' vague responses regarding running back Frank Gore, the team confirmed that the Pro Bowl running back suffered a fractured right hip Monday night.
Gore is expected to miss the team's final five games.
That leaves Brian Westbrook and Anthony Dixon to carry the load. Westbrook impressed with 23 carries for 136 yards during a 27-6 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, but Gore is the best player on the 49ers' offense.
Any playoff push the 49ers make will have to be without him.
Moments after filing an item about the San Francisco 49ers' vague responses regarding running back Frank Gore, the team confirmed that the Pro Bowl running back suffered a fractured right hip Monday night.
Gore is expected to miss the team's final five games.
That leaves Brian Westbrook and Anthony Dixon to carry the load. Westbrook impressed with 23 carries for 136 yards during a 27-6 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, but Gore is the best player on the 49ers' offense.
Any playoff push the 49ers make will have to be without him.
Rapid Reaction: 49ers 27, Cardinals 6
November, 29, 2010
11/29/10
11:50
PM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
GLENDALE, Ariz. -- Thoughts on the San Francisco 49ers' victory over the Arizona Cardinals on "Monday Night Football" in Week 12:
What it means: The Cardinals appear finished. They've lost six in a row, falling to 3-8 and they are showing no signs they can bounce back. It's almost certainly going to be a long December in Arizona even though the Cardinals' schedule appears favorable. The 49ers helped bring clarity to the division by affirming this is a three-team race between St. Louis, Seattle and San Francisco. The 49ers showed they could bounce back from an embarrassing defeat the previous week. The way they ran the ball against Arizona should put Seattle on notice for when the teams play at Candlestick Park in Week 14, particularly if Frank Gore returns from the hip injury he suffered Monday night.
What I liked: The 49ers showed a killer instinct early. They were conservative on their opening drive, running seven times in 10 plays. But when Arizona lost a fumble on its first offensive snap, the 49ers went to the end zone immediately. Troy Smith's 38-yard touchdown strike to Michael Crabtree set the tone for this game. Arizona went away quietly.
What I didn't like: The Cardinals appear to be getting worse. They're well past the point of blaming turnovers for the majority of their struggles. This is a bad team, through and through. An offseason roster overhaul appears appropriate.
Injurie(s) of note: The 49ers lost Gore to a hip injury. They lost center David Baas (jaw) and receiver Dominique Zeigler (knee). None returned. Brian Westbrook filled in admirably for Gore. Tony Wragge took over for Baas.
Tomorrow's Talker: Does this 49ers victory mean they are primed for a late-season run to the playoffs? They travel to Green Bay in Week 13, followed by the Seattle game and then two more on the road. Life in the NFL is week to week. The 49ers beat a bad team Monday night. Let's see if they can sustain their momentum. They're more firmly back in the race if they win one of their next two games.
Unsung Hero: Ted Ginn Jr. gave the 49ers favorable field position with long returns on punts and kickoffs. He had a 42-yard punt return and a 41-yard kickoff return. Ginn justified the 49ers' decision to name rookie receiver Kyle Williams inactive.
What's next: The 49ers visit the Packers. The Cardinals are home against the St. Louis Rams.
What it means: The Cardinals appear finished. They've lost six in a row, falling to 3-8 and they are showing no signs they can bounce back. It's almost certainly going to be a long December in Arizona even though the Cardinals' schedule appears favorable. The 49ers helped bring clarity to the division by affirming this is a three-team race between St. Louis, Seattle and San Francisco. The 49ers showed they could bounce back from an embarrassing defeat the previous week. The way they ran the ball against Arizona should put Seattle on notice for when the teams play at Candlestick Park in Week 14, particularly if Frank Gore returns from the hip injury he suffered Monday night.
What I liked: The 49ers showed a killer instinct early. They were conservative on their opening drive, running seven times in 10 plays. But when Arizona lost a fumble on its first offensive snap, the 49ers went to the end zone immediately. Troy Smith's 38-yard touchdown strike to Michael Crabtree set the tone for this game. Arizona went away quietly.
What I didn't like: The Cardinals appear to be getting worse. They're well past the point of blaming turnovers for the majority of their struggles. This is a bad team, through and through. An offseason roster overhaul appears appropriate.
Injurie(s) of note: The 49ers lost Gore to a hip injury. They lost center David Baas (jaw) and receiver Dominique Zeigler (knee). None returned. Brian Westbrook filled in admirably for Gore. Tony Wragge took over for Baas.
Tomorrow's Talker: Does this 49ers victory mean they are primed for a late-season run to the playoffs? They travel to Green Bay in Week 13, followed by the Seattle game and then two more on the road. Life in the NFL is week to week. The 49ers beat a bad team Monday night. Let's see if they can sustain their momentum. They're more firmly back in the race if they win one of their next two games.
Unsung Hero: Ted Ginn Jr. gave the 49ers favorable field position with long returns on punts and kickoffs. He had a 42-yard punt return and a 41-yard kickoff return. Ginn justified the 49ers' decision to name rookie receiver Kyle Williams inactive.
What's next: The 49ers visit the Packers. The Cardinals are home against the St. Louis Rams.
How I See It: NFC North Stock Watch
September, 15, 2010
9/15/10
11:31
AM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
» NFC Stock Watch: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
FALLING
1. Devin Hester, Chicago Bears receiver: The good news was that Hester was among three receivers in the Bears' starting lineup Sunday against the Detroit Lions. The bad, or at least odd, news: Quarterback Jay Cutler threw only one of 35 passes his way. Fellow receivers Devin Aromashodu (10) and Johnny Knox (seven), along with tailback Matt Forte (seven) were Cutler's primary targets. There was plenty of discussion this summer about Hester's assimilation into Mike Martz's scheme. Martz said at one point that Hester was a natural for the offense, but on Sunday he sure looked like an afterthought. It will be interesting to see if Hester grows into a more significant role.
2. Jahvid Best, Detroit Lions tailback: Fantasy owners no doubt loved Best's pair of touchdowns Sunday against the Bears, and ultimately the goal of every running back is to score. Best, however, gained 11 yards on those two plays and nine on his other 12 carries. It's true that the Bears' front seven mostly stood up the Lions' offensive line, and I didn't see many holes for Best to run through. But over time, you hope Best will use his speed and open-field running ability to create some plays on his own. The Lions have spent the past two seasons relying on a runner who only got the yards his blocking allowed in Kevin Smith. I think they're expecting more from Best.
3. Bernard Berrian, Minnesota Vikings receiver: The season-opening game at New Orleans seems to have happened ages ago. But let's not forget that Berrian was a non-factor in the Vikings' first regular-season outing without Pro Bowl receiver Sidney Rice (hip). Conventional wisdom suggested that Berrian would account for some of Rice's production, but in reality, quarterback Brett Favre continued to look toward his more favored receivers. Favre targeted tight end Visanthe Shiancoe seven times and receiver Percy Harvin on five passes. Berrian saw three thrown his way, catching one for three yards. I realize the Saints were in a Cover 2 defense, which makes it difficult to throw to outside receivers, but the Vikings are going to need more production from Berrian moving forward.
RISING
1. Matt Forte, Chicago Bears tailback: On a number of occasions, we've discussed how nicely Forte appears to fit into the Martz offense -- especially in the passing game. And it doesn't get much better than a seven-catch, 151-yard, two-touchdown performance in the opening game. The yardage total was the second-highest for a running back in Bears history. Forte, meanwhile, was the third running back in NFL history to record 150 or more receiving yards and multiple receiving touchdowns in a game. The other two were Brian Westbrook (2004) and Joe Cribbs (1981). Forte showed a nice burst on an 89-yard screen plan and put his exceptional ball skills on display for his 28-yard game-winning touchdown catch. I'm sure he would have liked to punch the ball into the end zone during a failed goal-line effort in the fourth quarter, but Forte established himself as a force in this offense regardless.
2. Kyle Vanden Bosch, Detroit Lions defensive end: In his first game since signing a free-agent contract, Vanden Bosch was all over the field. He recorded 10 solo tackles and set what I thought was a new standard for hustle and intensity on the Lions' defense. We've been discussing this aspect of Vanden Bosch's game since training camp, and now you see how it translates in a game. On top of that, don't forget that Vanden Bosch had at least three post-throw hits on Cutler, at least by my unofficial count. He didn't have a sack, but multiple hits over time always take their toll on a quarterback.
3. Clay Matthews, Green Bay Packers linebacker: Matthews celebrated his return to the Packers' lineup -- and his shift to a new position on the right side of the line -- by making a team-high seven tackles and accumulating two sacks in a 27-20 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Matthews also made the game-ending stop of Eagles quarterback Michael Vick on fourth-and-1 from the Packers' 42-yard line. Matthews missed most of the summer for the second consecutive year because of a hamstring injury, but it appears that 40-year-old quarterbacks aren't the only people who don't need training camp.
FALLING
1. Devin Hester, Chicago Bears receiver: The good news was that Hester was among three receivers in the Bears' starting lineup Sunday against the Detroit Lions. The bad, or at least odd, news: Quarterback Jay Cutler threw only one of 35 passes his way. Fellow receivers Devin Aromashodu (10) and Johnny Knox (seven), along with tailback Matt Forte (seven) were Cutler's primary targets. There was plenty of discussion this summer about Hester's assimilation into Mike Martz's scheme. Martz said at one point that Hester was a natural for the offense, but on Sunday he sure looked like an afterthought. It will be interesting to see if Hester grows into a more significant role.
[+] Enlarge
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesJahvid Best scored two TDs against the Bears, but he rushed for just 1.4 yards per carry.
Jonathan Daniel/Getty ImagesJahvid Best scored two TDs against the Bears, but he rushed for just 1.4 yards per carry.3. Bernard Berrian, Minnesota Vikings receiver: The season-opening game at New Orleans seems to have happened ages ago. But let's not forget that Berrian was a non-factor in the Vikings' first regular-season outing without Pro Bowl receiver Sidney Rice (hip). Conventional wisdom suggested that Berrian would account for some of Rice's production, but in reality, quarterback Brett Favre continued to look toward his more favored receivers. Favre targeted tight end Visanthe Shiancoe seven times and receiver Percy Harvin on five passes. Berrian saw three thrown his way, catching one for three yards. I realize the Saints were in a Cover 2 defense, which makes it difficult to throw to outside receivers, but the Vikings are going to need more production from Berrian moving forward.
RISING
1. Matt Forte, Chicago Bears tailback: On a number of occasions, we've discussed how nicely Forte appears to fit into the Martz offense -- especially in the passing game. And it doesn't get much better than a seven-catch, 151-yard, two-touchdown performance in the opening game. The yardage total was the second-highest for a running back in Bears history. Forte, meanwhile, was the third running back in NFL history to record 150 or more receiving yards and multiple receiving touchdowns in a game. The other two were Brian Westbrook (2004) and Joe Cribbs (1981). Forte showed a nice burst on an 89-yard screen plan and put his exceptional ball skills on display for his 28-yard game-winning touchdown catch. I'm sure he would have liked to punch the ball into the end zone during a failed goal-line effort in the fourth quarter, but Forte established himself as a force in this offense regardless.
2. Kyle Vanden Bosch, Detroit Lions defensive end: In his first game since signing a free-agent contract, Vanden Bosch was all over the field. He recorded 10 solo tackles and set what I thought was a new standard for hustle and intensity on the Lions' defense. We've been discussing this aspect of Vanden Bosch's game since training camp, and now you see how it translates in a game. On top of that, don't forget that Vanden Bosch had at least three post-throw hits on Cutler, at least by my unofficial count. He didn't have a sack, but multiple hits over time always take their toll on a quarterback.
3. Clay Matthews, Green Bay Packers linebacker: Matthews celebrated his return to the Packers' lineup -- and his shift to a new position on the right side of the line -- by making a team-high seven tackles and accumulating two sacks in a 27-20 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Matthews also made the game-ending stop of Eagles quarterback Michael Vick on fourth-and-1 from the Packers' 42-yard line. Matthews missed most of the summer for the second consecutive year because of a hamstring injury, but it appears that 40-year-old quarterbacks aren't the only people who don't need training camp.
Roster turnover is a leading topic for discussion in Seattle following the release of T.J. Houshmandzadeh in particular.
I've addressed the subject in depth across the division -- first May 26 and again July 30 -- and it's worth another look now that teams have reduced to 53 players for the regular season.
This time, I'm going to break down the changes by position, listing players no longer on the active roster at each main position group (with new players in parenthesis). Departures outnumber replacements because some players finished last season on injured reserve, meaning they were not part of the 53-man roster.
Some players no longer on the active roster remain with the team (they could be suspended, deemed physically unable to perform or part of the practice squad).
St. Louis Rams (34 off roster)
Defensive back: Eric Bassey, Quincy Butler, Danny Gorrer, Clinton Hart, Cordelius Parks, David Roach, Jonathan Wade (added Kevin Dockery, Jerome Murphy, Darian Stewart)
Defensive line: Victor Adeyanju, Adam Carriker, Leger Douzable, Leonard Little, LaJuan Ramsey, James Wyche (added Jermelle Cudjo, Fred Robbins, George Selvie, Eugene Sims)
Linebacker: K.C. Asiodu, Paris Lenon (added Na'il Diggs, Josh Hull)
Offensive line: Roger Allen, Alex Barron, Ryan McKee, Mark Setterstrom, Phillip Trautwein, Eric Young (added Renardo Foster, Hank Fraley, Rodger Saffold)
Quarterback: Kyle Boller, Marc Bulger, Keith Null, Mike Reilly (added Sam Bradford, A.J. Feeley, Thaddeus Lewis)
Running back: Samkon Gado, Chris Ogbonnaya (added Keith Toston)
Special teams: Ryan Neill
Tight end: Randy McMichael (added Mike Hoomanawanui, Fendi Onobun)
Wide receiver: Donnie Avery, Keenan Burton, Brooks Foster, Jordan Kent, Ruvell Martin (added Mark Clayton, Dominique Curry, Mardy Gilyard)
Seattle Seahawks (33 off roster)
Defensive back: Jamar Adams, Deon Grant, Ken Lucas, Josh Wilson (added Kam Chancellor, Kennard Cox, Nate Ness, Earl Thomas, Walter Thurmond)
Defensive line: Lawrence Jackson, Patrick Kerney, Cory Redding, Nick Reed, Darryl Tapp, Craig Terrill (added Kentwan Balmer, Raheem Brock, Chris Clemons, Dexter Davis, Junior Siavii, E.J. Wilson)
Linebacker: Leroy Hill, Lance Laury, D.D. Lewis (added Matt McCoy; note that Hill is suspended for the first regular-season game)
Offensive line: Trevor Canfield, Brandon Frye, Walter Jones, Damion McIntosh, Rob Sims, Steve Vallos, Ray Willis, Mansfield Wrotto (added Stacy Andrews, Evan Dietrich-Smith, Ben Hamilton, Russell Okung, Chester Pitts, Tyler Polumbus)
Quarterback: Mike Teel, Seneca Wallace (added Charlie Whitehurst)
Running back: Justin Griffith, Louis Rankin, Tyler Roehl, Owen Schmitt (added Quinton Ganther, Michael Robinson, Leon Washington)
Special teams: Kevin Houser, Jeff Robinson (added Clint Gresham)
Tight end: John Owens (added Chris Baker, Anthony McCoy)
Wide receiver: Nate Burleson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh (added Golden Tate, Mike Williams)
Arizona Cardinals (24 off roster)
Defensive backs: Ralph Brown, Bryant McFadden, Antrel Rolle (added A.J. Jefferson, Trumaine McBride, Brandon McDonald, Kerry Rhodes)
Defensive line: Jason Banks (added Dan Williams)
Linebacker: Monty Beisel, Bertrand Berry, Cody Brown, Karlos Dansby, Gerald Hayes, Chike Okeafor, Pago Togafau (added Paris Lenon, Cyril Obiozor, Joey Porter, Daryl Washington; Hayes can return from the physically unable to perform list after six games)
Offensive line: Mike Gandy, Herman Johnson, Reggie Wells (added Alan Faneca, Rex Hadnot)
Quarterback: Matt Leinart, Brian St. Pierre, Kurt Warner (added Derek Anderson, Max Hall, John Skelton)
Running back: Justin Green, Dan Kreider (added Jerome Johnson)
Special teams: Neil Rackers (added Jay Feely)
Tight end: Anthony Becht (added Jim Dray)
Wide receiver: Anquan Boldin, Sean Morey, Jerheme Urban (added Andre Roberts, Stephen Williams)
San Francisco 49ers (24 off roster)
Defensive backs: Dre' Bly, Walt Harris, Marcus Hudson, Mark Roman (added Phillip Adams, Tramaine Brock, William James, Taylor Mays)
Defensive line: Kentwan Balmer, Derek Walker
Linebacker: Scott McKillop, Jeff Ulbrich, Matt Wilhelm (added NaVorro Bowman, Travis LaBoy)
Offensive line: Tony Pashos, Chris Patrick, Cody Wallace (added Alex Boone, Anthony Davis, Mike Iupati)
Quarterback: Nate Davis, Shaun Hill (added David Carr, Troy Smith)
Running back: Thomas Clayton, Glen Coffee, Brit Miller, Michael Robinson (added Anthony Dixon, Brian Westbrook)
Special teams: Shane Andrus, Ricky Schmitt
Wide receiver: Arnaz Battle, Isaac Bruce, Jason Hill, Brandon Jones (added Ted Ginn Jr., Kyle Williams, Dominique Zeigler)
The first chart shows how many players are back -- at least for now -- from Week 17 rosters and injured reserve lists. Seattle has the fewest number back with 26.
The second chart shows how many players each team has shed since Week 17 last season. This counts players who were on injured reserve. Teams with lots of players on injured reserve had more players to lose.
I've addressed the subject in depth across the division -- first May 26 and again July 30 -- and it's worth another look now that teams have reduced to 53 players for the regular season.
This time, I'm going to break down the changes by position, listing players no longer on the active roster at each main position group (with new players in parenthesis). Departures outnumber replacements because some players finished last season on injured reserve, meaning they were not part of the 53-man roster.
Some players no longer on the active roster remain with the team (they could be suspended, deemed physically unable to perform or part of the practice squad).
St. Louis Rams (34 off roster)
Defensive back: Eric Bassey, Quincy Butler, Danny Gorrer, Clinton Hart, Cordelius Parks, David Roach, Jonathan Wade (added Kevin Dockery, Jerome Murphy, Darian Stewart)
Defensive line: Victor Adeyanju, Adam Carriker, Leger Douzable, Leonard Little, LaJuan Ramsey, James Wyche (added Jermelle Cudjo, Fred Robbins, George Selvie, Eugene Sims)
Linebacker: K.C. Asiodu, Paris Lenon (added Na'il Diggs, Josh Hull)
Offensive line: Roger Allen, Alex Barron, Ryan McKee, Mark Setterstrom, Phillip Trautwein, Eric Young (added Renardo Foster, Hank Fraley, Rodger Saffold)
Quarterback: Kyle Boller, Marc Bulger, Keith Null, Mike Reilly (added Sam Bradford, A.J. Feeley, Thaddeus Lewis)
Running back: Samkon Gado, Chris Ogbonnaya (added Keith Toston)
Special teams: Ryan Neill
Tight end: Randy McMichael (added Mike Hoomanawanui, Fendi Onobun)
Wide receiver: Donnie Avery, Keenan Burton, Brooks Foster, Jordan Kent, Ruvell Martin (added Mark Clayton, Dominique Curry, Mardy Gilyard)
Seattle Seahawks (33 off roster)
Defensive back: Jamar Adams, Deon Grant, Ken Lucas, Josh Wilson (added Kam Chancellor, Kennard Cox, Nate Ness, Earl Thomas, Walter Thurmond)
Defensive line: Lawrence Jackson, Patrick Kerney, Cory Redding, Nick Reed, Darryl Tapp, Craig Terrill (added Kentwan Balmer, Raheem Brock, Chris Clemons, Dexter Davis, Junior Siavii, E.J. Wilson)
Linebacker: Leroy Hill, Lance Laury, D.D. Lewis (added Matt McCoy; note that Hill is suspended for the first regular-season game)
Offensive line: Trevor Canfield, Brandon Frye, Walter Jones, Damion McIntosh, Rob Sims, Steve Vallos, Ray Willis, Mansfield Wrotto (added Stacy Andrews, Evan Dietrich-Smith, Ben Hamilton, Russell Okung, Chester Pitts, Tyler Polumbus)
Quarterback: Mike Teel, Seneca Wallace (added Charlie Whitehurst)
Running back: Justin Griffith, Louis Rankin, Tyler Roehl, Owen Schmitt (added Quinton Ganther, Michael Robinson, Leon Washington)
Special teams: Kevin Houser, Jeff Robinson (added Clint Gresham)
Tight end: John Owens (added Chris Baker, Anthony McCoy)
Wide receiver: Nate Burleson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh (added Golden Tate, Mike Williams)
Arizona Cardinals (24 off roster)
Defensive backs: Ralph Brown, Bryant McFadden, Antrel Rolle (added A.J. Jefferson, Trumaine McBride, Brandon McDonald, Kerry Rhodes)
Defensive line: Jason Banks (added Dan Williams)
Linebacker: Monty Beisel, Bertrand Berry, Cody Brown, Karlos Dansby, Gerald Hayes, Chike Okeafor, Pago Togafau (added Paris Lenon, Cyril Obiozor, Joey Porter, Daryl Washington; Hayes can return from the physically unable to perform list after six games)
Offensive line: Mike Gandy, Herman Johnson, Reggie Wells (added Alan Faneca, Rex Hadnot)
Quarterback: Matt Leinart, Brian St. Pierre, Kurt Warner (added Derek Anderson, Max Hall, John Skelton)
Running back: Justin Green, Dan Kreider (added Jerome Johnson)
Special teams: Neil Rackers (added Jay Feely)
Tight end: Anthony Becht (added Jim Dray)
Wide receiver: Anquan Boldin, Sean Morey, Jerheme Urban (added Andre Roberts, Stephen Williams)
San Francisco 49ers (24 off roster)
Defensive backs: Dre' Bly, Walt Harris, Marcus Hudson, Mark Roman (added Phillip Adams, Tramaine Brock, William James, Taylor Mays)
Defensive line: Kentwan Balmer, Derek Walker
Linebacker: Scott McKillop, Jeff Ulbrich, Matt Wilhelm (added NaVorro Bowman, Travis LaBoy)
Offensive line: Tony Pashos, Chris Patrick, Cody Wallace (added Alex Boone, Anthony Davis, Mike Iupati)
Quarterback: Nate Davis, Shaun Hill (added David Carr, Troy Smith)
Running back: Thomas Clayton, Glen Coffee, Brit Miller, Michael Robinson (added Anthony Dixon, Brian Westbrook)
Special teams: Shane Andrus, Ricky Schmitt
Wide receiver: Arnaz Battle, Isaac Bruce, Jason Hill, Brandon Jones (added Ted Ginn Jr., Kyle Williams, Dominique Zeigler)
The first chart shows how many players are back -- at least for now -- from Week 17 rosters and injured reserve lists. Seattle has the fewest number back with 26.
The second chart shows how many players each team has shed since Week 17 last season. This counts players who were on injured reserve. Teams with lots of players on injured reserve had more players to lose.
