Bill Williamson

  (2:00 PM)

Hi everyone, thanks for adjusting to a different day this week because of the holiday. Let's get roling.

Art South Gate Ca.

Do think the Raiders can finish strong in these last five games, Three games are at home.

Bill Williamson

  (2:02 PM)

They have Kansas City this week at home so they can get some more confidence going, The game at San Diego next Thursday is key.

Cam, Los Angeles

So Pereira says that the fumble by Gonzalez was not a catch because the entire event happened too quickly. Why does the possession rule continue to change every time a ref blows the call? When is the NFL going to wake up and realize that the refs are inserting themselves into too many games. It is ruining the sport.

Valdosta GA

who to start Westbrook or McGahee at RB

Bill Williamson

  (2:04 PM)

Not sure what happeend there so I will answer both questions here. First, on the officials. They are not ruining the game because bad calls affect everyone equally. But the refs are in a bad slump. And they need to tighten the ship soon because it is frustrating for everyone involved. As for the fantasy question, go with McGahee.

Jake, NYC

The Giants might lose to the Skins only if.......

Bill Williamson

  (2:05 PM)

They make three or four turnovers. Turnovers can kill even the msot effective offenses.

Josiah (MA)

I know this is a crazy question,but is there any way the Pats trade Brady and keep the imerging, younger Cassel?

Bill Williamson

  (2:06 PM)

Interesitng. But no. If Cassel keeps this up, he will be worth a high draft pick. You got to keep the hall of famer.

Travis (Farmer City, IL)

Good afternoon. It seems like the Broncos play good teams well and bad teams poor. I believe that is a sign of a team that is close to being good. How well do they finish the season?

Bill Williamson

  (2:08 PM)

Well, they didn't play the Patriots well. I just think Denver has too many issues on defense to be a consistent winner. Cutler has to play flawless these days for Denver to win and that's too much to ask of a quarterback three weeks in a row.

Almar (San Jose,CA)

Hey Bill, hope you have a great Thanksgiving. Will you be in OAKtown this Sunday to keep your streak alive?

Bill Williamson

  (2:09 PM)

Happy Thanksgiving to you as well, Almar. No, sorry in San Diego for Chargers-Atlanta game.

Will J (Portland, OR)

Do you see Denver eventually losing the division lead to SD? They haven't been playing good football lately.

Bill Williamson

  (2:09 PM)

Neither team has. I don't love Denver because of the inconsistency but time is running out on San Diego.

Kerry, Fargo ND

Who are your choices for having home field advantage thruout the playoffs?

Bill Williamson

  (2:10 PM)

Giants and Titans

Matt (Salt Lake, UT)

Yo Billy!! Please tell me the Broncos are just young and need to mature a little. I hope that is the reason they are so inconsistent. I'm calling it right now, they beat the Jets this week, and the next week they lose to the Cheifs. I don't even care if their defense sucks, please tell me that next year they will come to play every game.

Bill Williamson

  (2:11 PM)

The defense is the issue hee. Until it gets strong the inconsistency will remain. They're going to beat the Jets? How may I ask?

Ryan (Denver)

A few weeks ago said that you don't care who wins the division or who wins period but you look for good stories. Headline for the AFC west this year???

Bill Williamson

  (2:12 PM)

Lousy, but intriguing

John, NY

Has Reid run his course in philadelphia? He hasn't done anything since the Eagles superbowl appearance and before that the East was horrible. Now he looks like he couldn't even coach a pop warner team.

Bill Williamson

  (2:13 PM)

I think Reid needs a fresh start elsewhere. He is still a fine coach. But Philadelphia needs a change and so does Reid.

Almar (San Jose,CA)

Last weeks win against Denver finally showed a complete TEAM effort, will there be a snowball effect and soon this Raiders team will live up to the talent they do have, or was this past week a fluke performance??

Bill Williamson

  (2:14 PM)

Too early to tell. Let's talk after the San Diego game next Thursday.

Almar (San Jose,CA)

Hypothetically, if the Raiders by chance win the AFC West, do you think there would be some coaching changes within the division??

Bill Williamson

  (2:15 PM)

At 3-8, you're talking winning the division? I love Raiders' fans zeal.

J.B. (Dunmore, PA)

Mr. Williamson: Kind of a two-parter here. Who is a better bet to QB for the Vikings next year, Donovan McNabb or Derek Anderson AND who is actually a better fit between the two?

Bill Williamson

  (2:16 PM)

If Childress is still there, big if, probably McNabb. As for the fit, I say McNabb because this team is as easoned quarterback away from being a contender. He's been there before.

Larry (Pasco, WA)

The Chargers just need to pick up one game in the next four weeks to make the December 28th match up a winner take all for the AFC West. With Denver playing the Panthers and Jets on the road, do you see the division coming down to the Dec 28 game?

Bill Williamson

  (2:17 PM)

I can, yes. But the Chargers don't have an easy date agaisnt Atlanta this week and the game at Tampa Bay on dec. 21 won't be a treat, either.

Ryan (Denver)

I saw you put Shanahan on the hot seat this week, if Denver blows the division will his job be in jeopardy? Especially after the embarrassing loss to Oakland.

Bill Williamson

  (2:18 PM)

The hot seat for the week. No, he's safe long term.

Ryan (Denver)

What do you see out of the AFC west in the coming years? Is this the lousiest the west has been since you've been covering it?

Bill Williamson

  (2:19 PM)

It will get better. These things change all the time. There is a lot of good talent here. But yes this is the worst I've seen it.

Ryan (San Diego)

Hypothetically, the Chargers win their next two games at home and pull to within 1 game back. Do you see them closing out the season hot and winning the division?

Bill Williamson

  (2:21 PM)

It wouldn't hurt. The key games for the Chargers are against the Falcons and the Bucs.

Gurman (San Ramon, CA)

Bill, is Norv the problem in San Diego or injuries (Merriman, Tomlinson, Cromartie)?

Bill Williamson

  (2:21 PM)

They all contribute. The pass rush and run blocking isn't helping the cause, either.

Matt (New York)

Who wins Skins or Giants?

Bill Williamson

  (2:22 PM)

got to love the Giants.

Will J (Portland, OR)

Bill, is LT's career as one of the dominate RB's over? It didn't take long for Shaun Alexander to go from all-pro to nothing in Seattle.

Bill Williamson

  (2:23 PM)

Let's see what Tomlinson does next year before saying he's done as a game-changing back.

Byron Edwards (Boulder, CO)

After the Raids had such a good game in Denver, do you think it's too early or optimistic to hope for a 4-1 (or even 3-2) record to finish strong & gain momentum into next season. Also, with this weak division, could they make a playoff run next year?

Bill Williamson

  (2:24 PM)

A 3-2 finish would be nice for this team. yes, they could contend next season.

David Fairborn, OH

Best case scenario, Bengals get a 2nd rounder for Chad Johnson? I don't see the 'gals having a Randy Moss situation happen to them, and I hope that they resign TJ, although I don't know if TJ wants to be back...

Bill Williamson

  (2:26 PM)

It's difficult to get a lot of value for veterans. Johnson has proven to be such a headache that it's hard to see anyone giving up a first-day pick for him.

Ryan (SD)

The Chargers just took the Colts to the last minute and should have won if they had used better clock management. If SD plays the way they are capable, they win out. Denver can't say the same.

Bill Williamson

  (2:28 PM)

I totally agree. The Chargers are playing better than Denver right now. But they still have to make up the ground.

Bon Jovi

Why is LaDanian called LT? There is and was only one LT and he wore #56. Call the RB LT lite.

Bill Williamson

  (2:29 PM)

If you don't know why a guy named (L)aDainian (T)omlinson I is called LT, I can't help you, Jovi.

Patrick(Hoboken)

Do you think Matt Light should get suspended for his actions in Sundays game?

Bill Williamson

  (2:30 PM)

I haven't really studied it too much. He'll probably get a stuff fine. Just a guess, though.

Michael Turner (Dirty Bird Central)

Do the Bolts miss me yet?

Bill Williamson

  (2:30 PM)

If not, they should miss you. You are getting it done.

John (Watertown, NY)

Considering the drama between the bengals and Mr. Ocho Cinco, could you see the Raiders trying to go after him in the offseason and focus their draft on other big needs (i.e. OL, DL)

Bill Williamson

  (2:32 PM)

Sure, I could see it. The Raiders will need a receiver and they won't be scared off by Johnson's history.

Charles Brust (Frederick, MD)

Honestly can we expect for Denver to lay another egg or two before this years over and make the last game of the year matter?

Bill Williamson

  (2:33 PM)

I could see Denver laying three eggs before the season is over.

Al Davis (Alameda,CA)

The greatness of the Raiders has been restored because the play calling Sunday was made by Me, thats right, Me!....

Bill Williamson

  (2:34 PM)

The greatness of the Raiders? If 3-8 and 22 wins in nealry six seasons is greatness, then more power to you.

Pete (NC)

Seriously, the winner of the AFC West shouldn't be in the playoffs. They'll have 2 wins less than the wildcard.

Bill Williamson

  (2:35 PM)

That's just the way it goes.

Ryan (San Diego)

Some of the chargers are saying if they end up making the playoffs they could be dangerous because of all of the adversity they had to overcome this season. You buying it?

Bill Williamson

  (2:36 PM)

Yes, I buy it. No one would want to face this roster in the playoffs.

Andy (Millersburg, Pa)

Bill, All I want for Christmas is Denver running game. Do you think they try to add a veteran back this offseason?

Bill Williamson

  (2:37 PM)

At this point, I think they should consider that, yes.

Chris (Philadelphia, PA)

Is it too soon to say that McNabb is done in Philly after this year? And if he goes do the Eagles use Kolb or look to aquire a new QB.. say Matt Cassel in free agency?

Bill Williamson

  (2:38 PM)

Unless he has an unbelievable finishg to the season, I'd say he is done in Philly.

David Fairborn, OH

Denver can have Chris Perry...or maybe Ced Benson if they want. Signed, The Bengals and Santa

Bill Williamson

  (2:38 PM)

Think they'd rather take the coal.

David Fairborn, OH

Ladanian should be LDT

Bill Williamson

  (2:39 PM)

Yeah, that's snappy.

Ryan (Denver)

Most likely to miss the playoffs: San Diego or New Orleans?

Bill Williamson

  (2:39 PM)

New Orleans. It has more hurdles to leap.

Norv Turner (San Diego, CA)

Aj and Dean came out and said my job was safe thru next year. If I finish 1 or 2 games under .500 do you think I could be gone regardless?

Bill Williamson

  (2:40 PM)

Talk can be cheap, I do believe.

Bob

The number 5 seed will be glad to play whoever comes out of the west

Bill Williamson

  (2:40 PM)

That's a true story.

Jeff (KC)

He needs to stop fumbling, but Jamaal Charles is going to be a dynamic back. Can't wait to see what he does next year as their starter.

Bill Williamson

  (2:42 PM)

I like him too. But he has to prove he can stay healthy and that he can be more than a situational back.

Steve (Syracuse, NY)

Is it scary that if the Raiders win out they can win this division?

Bill Williamson

  (2:43 PM)

Can they win out, though?

Eric (Sioux City)

I bet Denver trades for L.Maroney. On draft day 2006, Shanahan said he thought Maroney would be the best back in the league.

Bill Williamson

  (2:44 PM)

Good call, Eric. On the day Denver drafted Cutler, Shanahan raved about Maroney. He could be available. Very good call.

Tyler (TX)

The cowboys have arguably the most raw talent in the nfl how come they are only 7-4 and fighting for a wild card spot

Bill Williamson

  (2:46 PM)

The Chargers have the same question.

Scooter (AK)

Don't know who Denver's primary ball carrier will be next season, but they should keep Hillis as their short yardage back. That guy is a monster.

Bill Williamson

  (2:46 PM)

Ryan Torain will get his chance when he is healthy.

Ryan (Denver)

Tyler Thigpen is the answer for KC at QB longterm?

Bill Williamson

  (2:48 PM)

I think he can be, yes. I like him. The Chiefs should address other need areas like DE, LB, OG and give Thipgen another year. If he fails next year, then go the get the QB. But he has, at least, shown that you can get by with him.

ray gordon reid cape hatteras nc 27954

QUESTION TO BILL WILLIAMSON hi bill willamson WHICH SUPER BOWL UPSET WOULD YOU VOTE FOR JAN 1969 JETS OVER COLTS THIS YEARS GIANTS OVER PATRIOTS

Bill Williamson

  (2:50 PM)

I'm a modern guy. Let's go with the Giants. The Patriots were 18-0. That's huge.

Jerry (CO)

Nice oxymoron, Bill, Torrain and healthy.

Bill Williamson

  (2:50 PM)

You may be right, Jerry.

Brandon (IL)

Do you see Singletary keeping the head coaching job in san fran? If not who do you like for the position?

Bill Williamson

  (2:51 PM)

No, I don't see him keeping the job at this point. Brian Billick could be a real possibility.

Joe (Denver, CO)

Do you think Shanahan's laid back approach is responsible for the Broncos inconsistency? It led two veteran teams to Super Bowls, but this young team looks undisciplined and overly confident considering the way it has played.

Bill Williamson

  (2:52 PM)

I don't think Shanahan is always laid back with this team. He has been known to get into their back sides behind closed doors just like any head coach.

Todd (St. Louis)

Clady deserves the attention, but Branden Albert needs some love also. He has played very well.

Bill Williamson

  (2:53 PM)

You're right, Albert is very solid as well.

Ryan (Denver)

Bigger surprise: Denver making the playoffs or actually winning a home playoff game?

Bill Williamson

  (2:54 PM)

They have a two-game lead so it shouldn't be a surprise if they get to the playoffs. But beating New England or Indy in the postseason? That could be tricky.

PT (Franklin, NC)

Was Ashley Lelie's performance a fluke against the Broncos, or does he have a chance to stick and contribute for the Raiders?

Bill Williamson

  (2:55 PM)

He's had one good game this season. Right now it's a fluke until he proves otherwise.

PT (Franklin, NC)

Will we start seeing more of Mcfadden after his solid all around performance against Denver?

Bill Williamson

  (2:56 PM)

I think so. McFadden can be a difference maker when healthy.

Ryan (Denver)

Have a good thanksgiving Mr. Williamson, what is your favorite thanksgiving side?

Bill Williamson

  (2:57 PM)

Stuffing guy.

PT (Franklin, NC)

At this point what will it take for Tom Cable to keep his job, I'd hate for the offensive line to have to start over in a new scheme again?

Bill Williamson

  (2:57 PM)

That win over the Broncos may have really helped him. If he goes 3-2, he'll have a shot.

Larry (Pasco, WA)

Chargers or Broncos: Who has the better chance of winning a playoff game if they get in?

Bill Williamson

  (2:58 PM)

I'd say the Chargers at this point.

Jon (Mo)

I think shanahan should be fired. people talking about how good he is doing in this injury season. I think it is his fault we are having these problems.

Bill Williamson

  (2:59 PM)

I think Shanahan has done a solid job this season consideirng everything that has gone on.

Almar (San Jose,CA)

I now must escape this chat network and back to my illustrious imagination in that the Raiders still have a chance of making these playoffs..I do believe or is it just desperate times in the bay...well if all else fails, theres always hockey, Have a great Thanksgiving Bill, chat you up next week!!!

Bill Williamson

  (3:00 PM)

Keep up the fight.

Bill Williamson

  (3:01 PM)

Hey folks, fun hour. Have a great Thanksgiving. Enjoy. Remember, next week's chat is back to Thursday. It's game day before the Raiders-Chargers game. Should be fun. Talk to you then.