Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:00 PM)

Welcome, Let's talk some football

Derrick: Tampa, Fl

I was really hoping to see the Dallas 3-4 defense be one of the likes of Pittsburgh and New England. Do you think Mike Zimmer is comfortable with the 3-4 yet?

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:03 PM)

Derrick, I think Mike Zimmer is comfortable with the 3-4 scheme, I think that it is Parcells philosophy to run a simpler system. I would love to see them run a scheme like that at NE & Pitt with all the zone biltzing with those outside linebackers the cowboys have.

damien (VA)

Do you feel that it's time for Joe Gibbs to start looking to the future of the Redskins and Do the same thing to Mark Brunell that the Giants did to Kurt Warner? I think that Joe Gibbs needs to swallow his pride.

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:06 PM)

It is a little too early in the season to be changing QB's. You should give Brunell a little more time. It was the Redskins defense that struggled with the Vikings offense. It would have been smart of Gibbs to give Campbell some work in preseason with the first unit.

Scott, Scottsdale, AZ

With the Eagles sitting on top of the NFC East, and hosting the Giants Sunday, how big of a win whould his be for the Eagles and their quest to retake the division?

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:09 PM)

Scott if the Eagles can pull out a win against the Giants it would be huge. The Giants are a good football team and will be a good test for the Eagles. If the Eagles can win they have an excellent chance of starting the season 4-0 due to an easy early schedule.

Cesar (Kissimmee, FL)

Huge Cowboys fan here! Wanted to know your opinion: Do you think the media nd many fans are over reacting to Bledsoe and the Boys bad play against the Jags? One game against a powerful team. Think everyone will just relax and watch the team come together?

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:12 PM)

Yes I do, I thought that the Cowboys looked good early vs. the Jags. They seemed to go away from what got them to a 10 point lead. The next 2-3 weeks will be the tell all for the Cowboys. Bledsoe needs to come out and have a good game this week.

Scott (Poughkeepsie NY)

Why didnt the Redskins use Duckett in the red zone at all on Monday. He is a proven back in those situations. Is there any chance that he will play at all in this weeks game.

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:14 PM)

Scott you would think that after trading for someone like Duckett that they would use him in a situation that best fits him. I was amazed that they did not use him more in that game. Duckett must be struggling with the offense or game plan.

Derrick (Tampa)

I was shocked to see Skyler Green cut, but later added to the practice squad. I know Parcellls has an eye for talent, but do you think Syler was that bad?

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:16 PM)

Derrick Skyler Green was a backup receiver who was going to make the Cowboys as a return specialist. He did not lite my fire as a returner or as a receiver. He is built like a running back not as a receiver. I would not be surprised if Parcells is using him there on scout team.

Aaron (Chapel Hill, NC)

CK, whats wrong with the redskins D? they couldn't get to johnson to save their life, and the 3rd down conversion rate was horrible. Does springs and wynn really account for all that?

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:19 PM)

The pass defense was poor, they gave up too many of what I call explosive plays. Plays over 20 yards. They need to protect their corners, all three look poorly in that game. I think Springs hurts them a lot. Also the Redskins have not enough quality depth in the secondary.

Matt (NJ)

Are you going to talk about the Giants at all?? Its just Cowboys, Skins and Eagles here. How are the Giants going to do this weekend? Do you think they will beat the Eagles?

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:23 PM)

Here you go Matt. I think this game could be a shoot out again. The Giants will have their hand full on defense. The Giants secondary needs to have a good game. They gave up too many passing yards last week. The Giants need to run ball down the Eagles throat to win. I like the Eagles at home with the crowd nose. The Giants offensive line better get their act together on the false starts.

Shon (Vegas)

Going into the season I felt that teams would be able to run on Giants. Indy had little success doing this, are the Giants better up the middle (aside from Pierce) than I thought?

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:27 PM)

Shon, what is Peyton Manning known for handing the ball off or throwing the ball? I feel that the Colts never really try to run the ball until they build up a lead. With that said the Colts miss James. The Giants are better with Barrey Cofield at tackle. Fred Robbins is a good DT but you have to keep your foot up his a$$. Pierce makes a big difference. The 2 tackles have to keep the guards off him.

Charles (Philly)

Are New York's safeties good enough to beat the new Eagles play action game? Donovan embarrassed the Texans with fakes and the Giants secondary is a weakness. Is Donte Stallworth going to be wide open downfield?

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:30 PM)

Charles the Giants have to good safeties in Wilson and Demps. I would hope that they would play better than the Texans safeties. I mean there is no excuse for a Safety playing a deep half zone to run up in run support from 20 yards deep while the Eagles Stallworth runs by you.

Chuck Knox, Jr.

  (12:31 PM)

Well it looks like it is time for me to go, enjoy your weekend.

Ken Moll

  (12:32 PM)

Hope everyone is doing well today. Let's talk some football

Mike (Quincy, MA)

Go Pats! Are we predicting yet another low scoring, defensive-minded Jets/Pats game? NE's D looked a little shaky at first vs Buffalo, but they pulled it together in the second half. Pennington could come around in the next couple weeks, and it could start against the Pats. I'm not taking them lightly!

Ken Moll

  (12:34 PM)

I do believe the Pats will look better on offense but it still may be a low scoring game. The Titans have some problems on both sides of the ball and I don't think Pennington will throw for over 300yds. vs. the Pats.

Steve (Westminster, VT)

A lot of people are making a big deal with the loss of Deion Branch in NE, and for the most part it is a big deal. However, with the production the Eagles got from JUST newly required Donte Stalworth, don't you feel that this is just as possible and very likely with Doug Gabriel with the Pats?

Ken Moll

  (12:36 PM)

The Pats will move on because they have to but defenses may squeeze their coverage if their is no explosive threat on offense. Gabriel may be that player but until he makes a few plays (over 20 yds.) they may not score a bunch of points to win a game.

Brad (NM)

Hey Ken, i've read several "experts" who proclaim Buffalo doesn't have a very good D this season. How would you grade their D with Spikes being back and the new rookies Whitner and Ko Simspon in starting roles?

Ken Moll

  (12:39 PM)

If spikes plays they are a different defense. His status is questionable for this weeks game. He was replaced by a rookie last week after the 1 st qter. The defense is improved but they if they are missing some starters in Miami it will hurt the outcome.

Bad Brad (Miami)

Granted Miami lost to Pitts and Batch was the QB, but knock off 2 mental errors in that game and Miami wins by 14. That said, a lesser opponent like the Pats would be a steam roll for this club.

Ken Moll

  (12:41 PM)

No one is going to steam roll Brady and BB but I do believe your thoughts are right on. The Phins were close to beating a fine team on the road in their opener. Don't give up on Miami too soon. DOG FIGHT BETWEEN THE FINS AND THE PATS FOR THE EAST !!!

Jason Georgia

Will Ronnie Brown and Chris Chambers have a big game against the Bills D

Ken Moll

  (12:43 PM)

I believe both players have a chance to have a big game. It all swings on the offensive line play. I believe the line will play better and the Bills may be missing a couple of starters . Fins should take this one

Nate (Philly)

Did Seau show you anything last week? Can he help the Pats D long term or does Teddy B need to come back soon?

Ken Moll

  (12:44 PM)

It appeared that Seau played well for his 1st outing as a Patriot but I believe the defense won't be the same until they get Teddy back.

Josh Guyle (Mooresville, NC)

Now I have seen a few Bills games here and there. They seem to have a lot of talent of both sides of the ball. Do you think they could have at least a 8-8 season this year or stretch as far as contending for a wild card?

Ken Moll

  (12:46 PM)

The Bills are better but 8-8- would be a good season for Dick Juron in his 1st year. They do have some good young talent but the Bills may not see quick results .They will take a big jump next year

Tyler (naples, FL)

Who do you think will win the battle in the trenches when Miami and Buffalo meet?

Ken Moll

  (12:48 PM)

Miami is well rested and the Bills are A little banged up (May not have their best defensive player in Spikes) Miami should win in the trenches after not posting great numbers in the opener

Bad Brad (New York)

Is the Pennington Coles connection back this year? Titans D is full of scrubs, but without a running game, these guys could throw 45 times a game.

Ken Moll

  (12:50 PM)

Chad will hit Coles a bunch this year but they have to get running game established or they will be in trouble. Good defenses will start to crowd receivers with out the threat of a running game.

Dave (Levittown)

Is there an O-line in the AFc East that can contain the Patriots D-line? Seymour and company are animals. Maybe the Jets once Mangold and Brick mature in a year or two?

Ken Moll

  (12:53 PM)

The Pats do have the best line in the AFC east but if the Phins line can improve and they will it is going to be a good battle in the tranches when they play. This week is going to be a big test for the two rookie 1st rounders for the Jets but They will be much better the 2nd time around.

John ( NH )

Ken, I keep hearing about Miami and I just don't see it. Culpepper didn't have a winning record with Minn last year. However his replacement managed a 7-2 record. Maybe just myabe the probelm with the Vikings last year moved to Miami. Any thoughts?

Ken Moll

  (12:57 PM)

I did ( evaluated) Culpepper coming out of college and have studied him at the pro level. This Guy can play. If you can't run the ball and you loose your most explosive offensive player (Moss) you are going to struggle as a Qb (ask Farve). He if gets some support on offense he will play well for the fins

David H (Hopkinton, MA)

Sure, we've lost an explosive Super Bowl MVP in Branch, but for the first time in many many years (third time every in NFL history) we have a dynamic duo in the back field. What impact will they have on the overall offensive numbers for the Patriots?

Ken Moll

  (12:59 PM)

Defenses should be able to game plan tighter coverages and possible crowd the line vs. the run. It will affect the over scoring numbers for the Pats but BB and Brady will find a way to win the close ones. The pats do have a very good duo in the backfield this will help a bunch.

Jay (Brooklyn)

The Pats' O-line -- which should be very good -- had some problems with the Bills' schemes early on last Sunday. How do you expect Miami's O-line to measure up to the Bills' rush?

Ken Moll

  (1:01 PM)

I believe that Miamoi' O-Line will play better this week and match up well with the Bills Pass rush

Ken Moll

  (1:01 PM)

Have a great weekend , Here is Keith

Keith Kidd

  (1:01 PM)

Let's talk some NFC South football!

Scott- Bakersfield, CA

With newly aquired LB's and the heartbreaking loss of Stallworth, how do you think the Saints pan out on both sides of the ball?

Keith Kidd

  (1:02 PM)

I think it will be a baptism under fire this year for the Saints. I think there's still too many holes on this football team to compete for the NFC South title this year. However, I like the direction of this team under Sean Payton.

Antonio Charlottesville, VA

Will the Tampa Bay Buccaneers win the NFC South again or will the prescence of John Abraham help the Falcons get on top?

Keith Kidd

  (1:04 PM)

Antonio, I still think the Panthers are the team to beat in the NFC South. However, based on the way Atlanta played last week, they'll be in the hunt. I just have some major concerns about the Bucs' offensive line and the status of QB Chris Simms right now. However, a lot of this will change as we get more and more into the season.

Nathan Greenville, NC

Will the Carolina Panther's Offensive Line mesh soon or will it be a problem for the whole season?

Keith Kidd

  (1:06 PM)

The loss of Travelle Wharton was a major blow to the continuity of the Panthers' offensive line. With the reshuffling of this week's group, it will be interesting to see how they perform in the noisy Metrodome against the Vikings' front seven. But again, a lot of it is going to depend on how well they run the ball to take the pressure off of Delhomme this week. I expect a low scoring game against the Vikings on Sunday.

Frankie (Greensboro, NC)

Is Steve Smith going to play? What are the odds?

Keith Kidd

  (1:07 PM)

Based on the reports I have, he's probably not going to play this week. The Panthers are not going to put him out there and expose him with a full season ahead. His loss has been a big blow to this offense, based on the way teams are defending the Panthers. I think the Vikings this week will gear up and load up in the box and try to make the Panthers a one-dimensional throwing team in this matchup.

7th Grader (Seattle)

do you think there's any chance that Chris Simms get's benched in favor of Bruce Gradkowski?could Gradgowski give them a Kyle Orton type performance?

Keith Kidd

  (1:09 PM)

Absolutely not. I think Simms give the Bucs' the best chance to win now. If Simms comes out and struggles, Gruden might set him down for a series or two to help him gain his composure. But I think you'll see a better Simms this weekend.

Ryan (Fargo)

Do fans and experts alike jump to too many conclusions after one week? (i.e. Carolina lost at home in week one last year too)

Keith Kidd

  (1:09 PM)

Absolutely. That's what we're paid to do. With that said, it's still a long season and a lot of ball is left to play.

Tim (NJ)

What type of year do you see Joe Horn having?

Keith Kidd

  (1:11 PM)

I still think Joe Horn will have a solid year. But again, a lot of it's going to depend on whether or not Marquis Colston and Devery Henderson can make plays in the passing game to offset the double coverages that Horn will consistently get game in, game out. But I still think Joe Horn is a solid front line reciever. He poses a great threat opposite Reggie Bush in the Saints' spread offense.

Mike (DC)

Whats the deal with Cadillac? Is his back a real concern, or is the Bucs O-line the only thing to worry about? Thanks.

Keith Kidd

  (1:13 PM)

I don't think you need to read too much into Cadillac. My biggest concern was the Bucs' line ability to get some movement and some space to run effectively between the tackles. I think he'll run better this week and put up some numbers, based on what he's done against the Falcons in the past.

Jason (Hartwell,Ga)

Will the Falcons increase the work load on Norwood so Dunn can last the season?

Keith Kidd

  (1:14 PM)

Without a doubt. Norwood showed enough last week to be reckoned with as a situational back opposite Dunn. I agree, I don't think Warrick can carry the load week in, week out as a 25 or more carry guy and be effective throughout the season.

Lee (Bealeton, VA)

What is up with the Bucs? I only watched parts of the game but no running, no time for Simms...and the D looked every bit as old as they really are at times. Is there any way to right this ship?

Keith Kidd

  (1:15 PM)

Lee, relax big guy. It's a long season. I think you'll see a much improved team in Week 2. In this series, the Bucs have dominated it in the last few years. Although it's all going to depend on the offensive line and the ability to react to the pressure that the Falcons will present. The defense wasn't the problem last week, it was the offense. You can't throw 3 INTs in a game and expect to win.

Brent (Durham, NC)

Do you think that Deangelo Williams will be Carolina's starting running back by the end of the season?

Keith Kidd

  (1:17 PM)

That's a good possibility just based on the durability concerns of DeShaun Foster. However, I would expect to see Foster as the primary guy week in and week out as far as his health is concerned. But I do think you'll see an increase in Williams' carries as the season progresses.

Michael CT

The Saints will go into GB and beat up on Farve, That being said if they can beat ATL the next week, What are their chances of making it into the playoffs

Keith Kidd

  (1:18 PM)

I do think the Saints will beat Green Bay on Sunday and based on the electricity that MNF presents against the Falcons, I think they could go 3-0. However, I don't think this team is equiped enough to not only make a run at the NFC South, but at the playoffs. I think this team is a couple of years away.

Joshua, New Hampshire

Am I the only Carolina fan tired of being stopped on campus by the incredibly arrogant Steelers/Patriots/Ravens fans and being told my team is way overhyped? Do you think all the analysts have exaggerated their strength?

Keith Kidd

  (1:21 PM)

No, I don't think the experts exaggerated the strengths. Two major issues I had with them were strength of schedule and injuries. Already, they're without Wharton who's out for the season, Dan Morgan who's out for a few weeks and their go-to guy on offense Steve Smith. But I do think the Panthers will bounce back and beat Minnesota in a close game on Sunday. It's so hard to overcome major injuries at critical positions and win in this league.

Dustin (St. Louis)

What kind of numbers do you see Cadillac putting up this year. Please tell me he will do better than he did in week 1.

Keith Kidd

  (1:22 PM)

I still think Williams will put up decent numbers this year. However, the offensive line has got to be more physical and more consistent against the Falcons' front seven. But I do think Williams will bounce back and have a good week this week. But that's only my opinion.

kit (mpls)

Do you think the reports of Bush receiving money in college will affect Bush's play this sunday?

Keith Kidd

  (1:23 PM)

No. I don't think it will have any effect on how Bush plays or the outcome of the game on Sunday.

Ben (Atlanta)

Keith.....if the Falcons win this week and next (against the Bucs and Saints) to go 3-0 in division play, will people start referring to the Falcons as the favorites in the NFC South? I don't think the thrashing of Carolina was quite the abberation some are making it out to be. The Falcons added a lot of key pieces in the offseason, although none of the so called "experts" seemed to take notice.

Keith Kidd

  (1:24 PM)

Absolutely. They will be the team to beat in the NFC South.

Zach S. (Coltsneck)

keith do you think the pats will still be making the playoffs without deion branch

Keith Kidd

  (1:25 PM)

I just can't go without answering a Patriots question, based on my prior history there. I do think they'll make the playoffs and I do think they'll win the AFC East.

Eric (New York)

Was week 1 for the saints defense a fluke or was it a sign of things to come?

Keith Kidd

  (1:27 PM)

Any time you play that type of defense in the NFL regardless of the opponent, it's no fluke. However, I do think the Saints will struggle on defense as we move through the regular season. You can say what you want about Favre, but they will be tested this week against the Packers and Ahman Green.

Josh (Charlotte)

I heard a rumor today in Charlotte that Steve Smith is faking a hamstring injury to get a new contract like the ones of harrison, TO, etc. Do you see there being any truth to this or is he truly hurt?

Keith Kidd

  (1:28 PM)

Absolutely not. Based on Steve Smith's competitive demeanor and playing style, it's killing him not to be out there where he can perform on Sundays. With that said, he's doing all he can to play this Sunday, it's just unfortunate that the hamstring won't allow him to do so.

Joe, La

What do you thibk of the saints this year? could they go .500, or is that to much to hope for?

Keith Kidd

  (1:30 PM)

Joe, I think 6-10 would be a great record for the Saints in Sean Payton's first year. However, anything's possible in the NFL.

Keith Kidd

  (1:30 PM)

Thanks for all the great NFL questions. Good luck this week. Doug Kretz is here to take you home.

Doug Kretz

  (1:31 PM)

Hello SportsNation!! Great day to talk Ball.. Lets get to your questions.

Matt ((Philly))

Does Jacksonville have too many injuries on defense to fend off the Steelers on Monday? Are the Panthers going to rebound?

Doug Kretz

  (1:33 PM)

Jacksonville is certainly thin on the D line. They only had 3 defensive tackles in their drills, on Thursday.. But remember Stroud played, last week, even though he was severely limited in practice. The extra day gives the banged up more time to heal. Should be a GREAT game.

AL- GA

When do we expect to see Addai the starter in Indy?

Doug Kretz

  (1:34 PM)

Well, Al.. Only Dungy knows for sure. But I would expect to see more of him this week and, hopefully, by midseason, he could be starting.

Tyler (Murfreesboro, TN)

After a great defensive year in 2005, it looks like the Colts defense is returning to old form, and without the Edge to assist in offense, I see the Colts losing some shootouts and faltering this year. Thoughts?

Doug Kretz

  (1:36 PM)

Tyler.. Loosing Edge hurt in two ways. There is the loss of his production.. PLUS, when they are able to run the ball effectively the defense gets longer to rest. I agree, you can't hope to win all your games when it ends up being who scored last, or the most points. You have to be able to stop some teams.

Brandon Chesterton IN

Is jacksonville goin to be a major contender in this Division with the Colts or was last sunday just a bad showing of the Cowboys.

Doug Kretz

  (1:38 PM)

Brandon.. Yes the Jags are going to be in the mix.. I think we saw that Jacksonville still has what it takes, on defense, and their offense might be better than what a lot of people anticipated.

Big Stank- WA

How far do you see the winner of the AFC South going into the playoffs?

Doug Kretz

  (1:39 PM)

Big.. I think there will be two teams in the playoffs, from the AFC South.. And with two chances, I see good odds that one of them will go far into the playoffs.

Nick

Will the return of Corey Simon help sure up the Colts d-line?

Doug Kretz

  (1:40 PM)

When Simon is full strength, he have a huge effect on their defensive line. He is a strong, powerful athlete that takes attention away from the other, smaller, defensive linemen.

Ricky Bobby (Talladega)

The Titans have a brutal opening schedule to the bye: 4 away games and all against good teams. Any chance to avoid going 0-6 into the bye?

Doug Kretz

  (1:41 PM)

Ricky.. Very little chance of going 0-6.. However I don't see them being .500 at that point (3-3)

eric ky

next week a big game jags and colts who wins

Doug Kretz

  (1:42 PM)

Too early for the two teams to start worrying about each other.. However, with their strong defense, I like the Jags

Jeff-St. Louis, MO.

Do you think the Titans will continue with Kerry Collins being the starter and Vince Young getting spot work for the entire year, or Will they eventually let Young be the starter and get some experience??

Doug Kretz

  (1:44 PM)

Jeff.. I don't see Young becoming the starter, this season.. However he should get more added to his package each week and, maybe, play a couple of series this week.

Blair (Orlando, FL)

Do you think any of Houston's running backs will be able to fill Domanick Davis's shoes this season? If so, who?

Doug Kretz

  (1:45 PM)

Blair.. Lundy, Dayne or Gado are NOT Davis.. They will have to try and get the production by committee rather than by any single back.

Justin (NY, NY)

Any insight into what is going on with Billy Volek? It still seems strange that after all these years of waiting around, he wouldn't even get to start even a few games.

Doug Kretz

  (1:47 PM)

The Titans thought he was going to be their starter this year and hand off the duty to Young next year. Apparently they were disappointed in his play, during camp. I, however, don't see much of an upgrade in Collins.

Mike (DC)

what kind of year can we expect from Leftwich? Does he have the recievers to throw to to put up a good season statistically?

Doug Kretz

  (1:49 PM)

Even though he lost his favorite target, Leftwich seems poised to have a big year. He has something to prove and he has three big receivers that stepped up, this past week, to produce they way they were expected to produce when the Jags drafted them.

Obsessed Fan

The Colts had a few key defensive injuries (ie Simon and Doss) against Giants. Will their return improve on that lackluster performance?

Doug Kretz

  (1:50 PM)

Adding those two players to the mix can't help but make a big difference.. But I don't know how much they are going to play on Sunday. Dungy might limit their number of snaps, thinking they should be able to handle Houston with what they have.

ZACK OHIO

WHY IS ERERYONE ON THE COLTS RUNNING GAME IT WILL BE FINE WHAT DO YOU THINK

Doug Kretz

  (1:52 PM)

The running game is dependent on the O line as much, if not more, than the ball carriers. This is an experienced group and they gave Edge enough of a hole last year. The new RBs need to trust their line and hit the hole with more authority. The run game will be ok, but not like it was last year.

WESS ALABAMA

IS M HARRISON ON HIS WAY DOWN

Doug Kretz

  (1:54 PM)

Lets see.. Against a good Giants defense he had 9 catches for 113 yards.. Doesn't look too bad..

Rich (Richmond)

Doug, who do you see being the more productive back in Indy this weekend: Lundy or Addai?

Doug Kretz

  (1:55 PM)

By the end of the year... Addai will have more yards.

Max (NY)

Doug, should the Colts' fans be concerned with the way Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney played last week?

Doug Kretz

  (1:56 PM)

Max.. Just one game.. Don't panic. They have a chance to redeem themselves against Houston. I think you will see a lot of both of them in Houston's backfield Sunday.

Booo Jags!

Million Dollar question!!! Who wins the AFC South?

Doug Kretz

  (1:58 PM)

I like the Jags, with their defense.. But I believe the Colts' defense and run game will come around enough to go with their top passing game to win the conference.

Joe (Winslow Maine)

Who is for blame for the number of Carr's Sacks?

Doug Kretz

  (2:01 PM)

Primarily the O line. They are not blessed with a lot of top players and haven't practiced, or played together, as a unit, for an extended period of time. They have to get used to each other!

Doug Kretz

  (2:03 PM)

Well gang.. My time is up. See you on Monday!! Thanks for those questions.