ESPN

Kevin Seifert

  (1:00 PM)

Hi everyone. Thanks for joining me as we kick off this chat marathon. As you know, we rolled out our all-decade team this week. My contribution was the special teams portion, but I'll address whatever questions or comments you have. I'll be with you for the next 30 minutes before I hand things off to the Dean, Matt Mosley. OK, let's get to it.

J.R. ((Dallas))

Kevin,Who do you think is the team of the Decade?New England or Pittsburgh?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:01 PM)

I agree with Tim Graham. New England has been either elite or playoff-caliber throughout the decade. Plus, three titles.

eric buffalo,ny [via mobile]

the only person that i feel got left off the team was h.ward. hes put up alot of big seasons and also blocks. superbowl mvp looks nice, huh?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:02 PM)

Yeah, I'd say the receiver position was more contested than any other. I mean, Randy Moss and Terrell Owens got left off. That tells you something. Hines Ward has been a big contributor to two Super Bowl teams, but I don't think I'd place him above Moss, Owens or the two receivers that made it: Harrison and Holt.

Corey (D.C.)

In 25 years no one who knows anything about the NFL would put Torry Holt over Randy Moss for anything. Holt is a great player, but Moss is simply in another league regardless of what stats show. How can ESPN justify Holt over Moss?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:03 PM)

I guess everyone has their opinion. I covered Moss for six years, and at his best he impacted the game on a far greater level than Holt.If anything, thought, I think Holt got the nod for consistency. Those two years Moss lost in Oakland really worked against him in terms of establishing a presence for the entire decade.

daniel (ozark, mo)

what about adam vinitieri?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:04 PM)

He made it.

J.R. ((Dallas))

Kevin,We considered the "Music City Miracle" as partof the 1990's. Do you think David Tyree's catchwas the greatest play in the last decade?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:05 PM)

Yeah, there was a timing issue there. 1999 season, but the game was played in January 2000. As far as Tyree, I can't think of a more impactful tough catch in the decade.

Daniel Alvarez (missouri)

what about adam vinatieri? he made winning field golas in super bowls. if it werent for him tom brady wouldnt be a star

Kevin Seifert

  (1:06 PM)

He's on the special teams, er, team. But I assume you're talking about the top 25 all-time players? Tough to put a kicker in that group.

Mike (SF, CA)

Two words and a symbol: Troy Vincent?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:07 PM)

Yes. I handled cornerbacks for the team, and I had a lot of football people -- coaches, other players -- tell me they thought Vincent in his prime was as good as anyone in the league. They thought he covered as well as Charles Woodson and was as physical as Ronde Barber.

Chris (Broadview Heights, OH)

Ryan Pontbriand = long snapper of the decade?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:08 PM)

I went with David Binn from San Diego. Hard to judge long-snapping talent, but the fact that the Chargers have employed him since 1994 is good enough evidence for me.

David (Chicago)

Do you think Hester will return to the return dominance this season which made him all decade?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:09 PM)

I don't know. They are going to limit him to punt returns, which I think will help. But will he be back to returning 3-4 punts for touchdowns? I'm not sure if opposing teams will let him do that anymore.

Shawn (Florida)

Harrison to MN? Is Favre already running this team or what?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:10 PM)

To this point, it's all rumors. No confirmed contact.

Travis (DC)

The Los Angeles Clippers have employed Mike Dunleavy for 7 years now. Does that make him the top 25 coach?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:10 PM)

Can he long-snap?

Hep (Minneapolis)

Kev, after watching the Pack this last week, What kind of grade would you give the new defense? I know they're not in pads, but do you think they can be good right away, or is this going to be a rough transitional year. thanks

Kevin Seifert

  (1:11 PM)

It doesn't have to be a rough transition year, no. They looked a lot different on defense, I'll say that. And after the way they played last year, that's a good thing.

Jeff (Madison)

What would you rather have, Devin Hester returning 5-6 kicks for touchdowns a year or being a receiver with 600 yards and 6 touchdowns?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:12 PM)

Obviously, the former. But I think the Bears envision him as a 1,000-yard guy. His numbers went up significantly during the second half of last season.

Mom (the kitchen)

Want some Meatloaf?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:12 PM)

I never know what she's doing back there.

justin (dallas)

mosley, we are trying to get a petition going here in dallas so randy will have to legally call you the beastmaster. what do you think?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:13 PM)

You can ask Matt himself when he gets on here at 1:30 p.m. Sorry for the confusion.

Louis (Montreal)

I was surprised to see Kurt Warner in the top 25 players of the decade. He lost the 2 super bowl he went in and he had some pretty oridnary years in the mid-2000. He was a backup for a few years

Kevin Seifert

  (1:14 PM)

Don't mean to sound trite, but how many quarterbacks can say they've lost two Super Bowls? It's a big deal to get there, too.

Robert (Latrobe, PA)

Jerry Angelo, in my mind, has made it abundantly clear that he is not interested in any veteran receivers, yet the Marvin Harrison rumor will not die. Is this just speculation/wishful thinking or is there something to this.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:14 PM)

Seems like Burress would be a more likely scenario.

Robert (Latrobe, PA)

Why Kris Jenkins? Sapp was a no-brainer, but Jenkins has been inconsistent, and I would argue that guys like Casey Hampton, Shaun Rogers, Vince Wilfork (despite his late start), and Albert Haynesworth are all more deserving than Jenkins.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:15 PM)

A lot of people have asked that. I would say all of the guys you mentioned had the same issues: They had some great years and some down years during the decade. At his prime, Jenkins was unstoppable.

Greg (boston)

Kevin, you guys didn't go far enouugh, you should have annointed Tom Brady and Bill Belichick worthy of in the halls of Zeus and other gods...Why won't you show us New Englanders some respect

Kevin Seifert

  (1:16 PM)

Because we don't tolerate idolatry.

jaz (a)

some people think tom brady is the greatest qb of all time. to me thats complete nonsense. what are your thoughts?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:16 PM)

He needs another Super Bowl victory to match Montana, right? So I would agree with you at this point.

Kanyon (Huntington WV)

Who would you rather have on your roster Tom Brady and Randy Moss or Ben rothleisberger and Santonio Holmes and why?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:18 PM)

Brady/Moss for this season. Maybe long term, I go with the Pittsburgh guys becuase they're younger. Right now, I trust Brady more than Roethlisberger and think he can carry a team to a greater extent. And Holmes is going to have to produce a few more seasons like he did last year before he reaches Moss' level.

JR (MO)

Ok, I have to ask.. What is the latest on Favre?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:18 PM)

Waiting on his arm, as we have been and probably will be.

Aaron (K.C.)

Kevin, you said 2 chats this week, I WAS headed over to facebook to call you out but as usual you came thru. As a Vikes fan I am excited about Favre, not cause I think we will win with him but because I belive it is the beginning of the end for Chilly thoughts?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:19 PM)

That is definitely one skewed, but popular, sentiment. ... I think it's fair to say Childress will have plenty of pressure on him this year. Not many holes on the roster if you include Favre.

Aaron (New York)

Great post on Raji the other day. Did you see him staying on the field when they went to Nickel and Dime in the few practices you got to see, and if so where was he? Was he part of the 2 man line in Nickel? Thanks.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:20 PM)

In the nickel, he moved inside to defensive tackle, if I saw things right. The time I saw the 2-man line, they were running the second or third team, so Raji wasn't involved. But when it comes to passing situations, I have a hard time believing he won't be in there, probably at tackle.

Mike D (Philadelphia PA)

JR- Favre just bought a house in Minnesota. Childress is on a fishing excursion in Alaska. A contract could already be drawn up but they will hold any announcement until Childress returns to the team. Hear that guys!? You can start lining up the Favre pieces now! I look forward to not reading all 50 articles on this non-story next week.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:21 PM)

The house thing is not confirmed, Mike D. Big-time rumor at this point.

Shane (Los Angeles, CA)

Really surprised to see Hutchison ranked below Alexander for the top 25 of the Decade. It is obvious that Hutchison makes RBs much better, as evidenced by the horrific plummet of Alexander's numbers when Hutchison left, and the amazing numbers Peterson puts up in Minnesota. Dont think the linemen are getting enough credit!

Kevin Seifert

  (1:22 PM)

I can see that. It's no coincidence that Alexander and Peterson have both excelled with Hutchinson's help. But when you look at Alexander's year-by-year touchdown numbers, it really makes him an elite, elite player in the decade.

Robert (Latrobe, PA)

Lions question: was extending Raiola a good move?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:23 PM)

Pretty harmless. But to me it makes clear they have no intent to overhaul the line. You could make the argument the line hasn't played well in recent years, but Raiola and Peterman have both received long-term extensions.

jaz (a)

are you saying that super bowl rings measure individual success? thats something i dont agree with, because in my mind peyton manning is a level above tom brady and he has less. his team is also not as good. what are your thougths on that?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:24 PM)

I think championship rings are part of it, absolutely. Especially when you talk about quarterbacks. It's one position in a team sport that can individually impact the outcome of games. Ultimately, a quarterback's job is to win games ... not just put up huge numbers.

Aaron (K.C.)

Any chance we see a AD, Chester, Harvin backfeild this year?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:25 PM)

Sorry. My head just started hurting. Ok, I'm fine now. I think that would certainly make things difficult for defenses. But it's more likely you'll see Harvin paired up with either Peterson or Taylor.

Shane (Los Angeles, CA)

Do you think all of Favre's drama contributed to a lower ranking in the Top 25? Or was it strictly performance?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:26 PM)

Probably performance. You could argue some of his best years, including both Super Bowls, happened in the previous decade.

Mike D (Philadelphia PA)

Who would win in a 40 yd. dash Seifert vs. Mosley?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:27 PM)

Depends on whether Terrell Owens was waiting at the finish line.Ah, we kid because we love.

J.R. ((Dallas, TX))

Seifert,Does it bother you being in BeastMaster's shadow?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:27 PM)

There is only one Beastmaster. I'm just a regular old Black and Bluer.

al_harris (ill)

kevin, do you think jennings can be a top 5 wr in the nfl ?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:27 PM)

Yes. And he's certainly getting paid like one.

al_harris (ill)

kevin i think you could out race him , you look younger

Kevin Seifert

  (1:28 PM)

I'm also fatter.

Jim (DC)

By that logic, Eli Manning, Brad Johnson, Mark Rypien and Jeff Hostetler are all better than Marino. Don't you think that's just a bit asinine?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:31 PM)

No one said it's the only criteria, Jim. Manning and Brady have both had excellent individual careers. Manning has better statistics, for sure, but I don't think that necessarily means he's been a better player. There are also things like scheme to take into account. The one time Brady played in a comparable pass-happy offense, he put up record-breaking numbers. Marino's individual performance allows him to be ranked ahead of the players you mentioned. But if you put Marino against Brady or Manning or Montana, they're all close enough individually for me to consider Super Bowl titles as a fair difference-maker.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:31 PM)

I'm enjoying this so much I'm going to go an extra five minutes while Mosley finishes his warm-up.

Aaron (K.C.)

Marino is back at his playing weight!

Kevin Seifert

  (1:32 PM)

Yes, NutriSystem will do that for you.

Gunnar (WA)

why is Raji playing at DE, he was drafted to play NT correct? is this a sign that pickett is not a good option at DE as the coaches have said?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:32 PM)

Right. I don't think I'd want Pickett at end. He's a pure nose tackle. Raji, younger and quicker, can play end if needed at a higher level.

Gregg (Boston)

Pat Williams credits Dunbar for revitalizing his career and turning him into the perenial pro-bowl player that he is and a case could be made that Kevin W. wouldn't have reached his potential as spectacularly either. Just watch how Jimmy Kennedy plays this season and tell me Dunbar doesn't blow Marinelli out of the water as a coach.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:34 PM)

I think Dunbar is an excellent coach, no doubt. He was Kevin Williams' coach in college and gets a lot of credit for developing his career. But to me it's hard to argue with Marinelli's track record at Tampa Bay.

R.J. (Lansing)

Kevin, I really enjoy your chats, but you sure have a lot of "junk" on here....let's stick to football! If I want humor, I'll watch the Lions minicamp.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:35 PM)

Ouch. ... 30 minutes of pure football would be too boring for me. We've got to have some fun.

peter (miami)

Looking at holts years when his QB was injured, He has numbers similar to Moss with the raiders. I feel that if Holt is ever to be taken ahead of Moss, then Ward should be ahead of holt, based on the logics being used. I would not even close Harrison ahead of MOss. Harrison for his entire career plays with at worse the second best QB in the league, the same OL, the same OC. I tihnk if Moss had that, he would have every record as WR. your thoughts

Kevin Seifert

  (1:36 PM)

One thing I would say is that Moss wasn't hurt when he was in Oakland. He just wasn't good. Big difference.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:36 PM)

Ok everyone, I'm going to hand things off to the BeastMaster himself. Matt Mosley, take it away.

Lou (Boston)

Once Brady wins another ring this year can we finally put all this ridiculous Manning comparison stuff to rest?

Matt Mosley

  (1:37 PM)

Kevin, thanks for putting in some OT. I'm here whenever you need me.

Josh (Dallas)

Mosely - first off thanks for the love with the front page post (bigdjosh). now I have 2 questions... do you think Jason AKA Red Jesus can and more importantly WILL change his game planning to be a run first Off and use the skill players that he has in the way they should be used? and also... What do you feel about being named The BeastMaster and will we ever be able to get Randy to refer to you by it?

Matt Mosley

  (1:39 PM)

No problem, Josh. You're certain a devoted reader -- and listener. I think Red J (Jason Garrett) better put a major emphasis on the running game if he wants to be coaching for the Cowboys next season. And I think he will. You guys can call me anything you want, Josh. BeastMaster seems a little awkward to me, but I'll try to embrace it.

Robert (Latrobe, PA)

Are Patriots' fans the most hyper-sensitive in the NFL? I have never seen fans with such a successful franchise act so immature and insecure. We get it, we get it: Belichick is God, Brady is untouchable, and the Patriots are the best team in the NFL (despite not winning a SB in over 4 years). They have by far surpassed any other city as the most obnoxious fans in the world.

Matt Mosley

  (1:42 PM)

I think Boston-area fans have had to adjust to a completely knew era. At one point, the only consistent championship team they had were the Celtics. They loved the Red Sox, but they had to deal with so many painful losses. And the Patriots were a joke for years. They were actually the fourth team in the city. Now, the Celts have won a title again, the Patriots were the team of the decade and the Red Sox are dominant -- with a couple of World Series titles. I think Boston fans have developed a new mindset. OK, I'll stop talking now.

D (MN)

A year ago ESPN put Randy Moss #2 all-time behind Jerry Rice?Now, a year later, he can?t make the all-decade team??? Ask any D-Coordinator or D-Back, who was more feared over the past 10 years?Moss or Holt? Moss with out a doubt?I would put TO ahead of Holt as well?

Matt Mosley

  (1:46 PM)

I think Mike Sando put a panel together of former NFL greats to come up with that list. I didn't agree with Moss being No. 2 at all -- if that's the way the voting actually ended up. I think the people I talked to put Harrison and Holt above Moss and T.O. because of their unbelievable consistency. Holt went six consecutive seasons of over 1,300 yards. Moss gave up in Oakland. T.O. flamed out in San Fran and Philly. I have no problem with Harrison and Holt ending up on top of our all-decade list.

Fiona (Miami)

2 Questions: Who will be the WR opposite Larry Fitzgerald on the next All-Decade Team? And Which QB is more likely to make the next All-Decade Team between Big Ben and Eli?

Matt Mosley

  (1:48 PM)

Great questions, Fiona. I wouldn't be shocked to see Calvin Johnson end up on the list if he and Stafford get on the same page pretty quickly. In terms of the next decade quarterbacks, Big Ben has already done a lot of damage in this decade. And Eli's Super Bowl run was obviously huge. There's someone you're not thinking about. He goes by the name Flacco. Trust me.

Jim (DC)

I really don't have many objections to your all-decade team. We could quibble over certain ones, but a decent job overall. What I want to know, since there are no Skins on the squad (Taylor and Bailey don't count) is who among the Skins would be the closest to making the squad? I realize this was'nt a great decade for my boys and that it's possible none were anywhere near close, but I would go with Mike Sellers at Fullback.

Matt Mosley

  (1:51 PM)

I like Sellers. I'd put him on the NFC East all-decade team, but I wouldn't consider him for the overall list. And I think Skins fans can claim Bailey. He did some damage there. Outside of that, DeMarcus Ware's making a late charge. And by the way, Strahan and Vincent did make the defensive all-decade team, so there's some Beast representation.

Samoyed (Frisco,TX)

Are you planning on attending any of TO's "Farewell to Dallas" tour events? I know how both of you guys enjoy each other's company. I'm sure you're aware that your TO window of opportunity is closing (if not already closed)since he will no longer be a NFC East player. It might be your last chance to express your hate for both TO and Jerry Jones in the same article while still being called somewhat NFC relevant. Or, was yesterday's article your TO swan song?

Matt Mosley

  (1:56 PM)

Samoyed, I thought you'd gone on vacation. You've been sort of quiet in the comments section. I didn't show up for T.O.'s brief appearance at his own football camp. I considered stopping by to say hello at his farewell party, but decided against it because I wanted him to enjoy the evening. It's not fair at all to say I "hate" either T.O. or Jones, though. T.O. and I had some great visits over the years. And I have immense respect for the numbers he's put up. I think he's locker room wrecker, but that's not breaking news. Guys that constantly play the victim just get on my nerves. And it's ridiculous to suggest that I "hate" Jerry. He and I've had a solid working relationship for years. And he'd say the same.

Drew (DC)

Will Bradshaw have a similar impact as Derrick Ward? Or will it be more a committee thing?

Matt Mosley

  (1:57 PM)

More of a committee thing. I think Brown will be in the mix big time by midseason

Mike (Philadelphia)

I was very surprised to see Mcnabb was not in the top 25 of the decade. Do you agree with that? and if so, why do Eagles fans get so much grief for criticizing him when ESPN see him as we do, above-average with some glaring faults (See, eg. 'Vomit inthe Huddle").

Matt Mosley

  (1:59 PM)

He was probably a victim of the fact that so many good quarterbacks played in that decade. Brady, P. Manning, Brees. It's tough to crack the list. That said, I would've made an argument to put him in the top 25.

jon (north carolina)

I just read the list and I thought that Urlacher was rated to low. I'm not a Bears fan, it's just I've never seen one defensive player dominate a field like that. Oh yeah, are you surprised that none of the current Cowboys made the list?

Matt Mosley

  (2:00 PM)

I'm not sure which cowboys player you would've put on there. Witten's become the best tight end in the league. But Gonzalez had a head start in the decade. T.O. had the best chance, but he barely missed the cut. You could make an argument for Larry Allen, but his best years came in the 90s.

Sean (Philly)

What do you make of the Edge to Philly rumors?

Matt Mosley

  (2:01 PM)

I think he's a poor fit for that offense.

Drew (DC)

Any chance of a revised All-Decade NFC team next year if Ware comes out and breaks the sack record?

Tim Graham

  (2:01 PM)

Hello, everybody.

Mosley

  (2:01 PM)

You never know what we'll do. In the dog days of summer, a "revised" list might seem like a really good idea. Folks, enjoy Tim Graham. He's one of my favorites.

Tim Graham

  (2:02 PM)

The baton has been passed. I'll try not to drop it.

Peter (Wisconsin)

How will fred taylor be this year? Great ,good ,bad ,worst ever

Tim Graham

  (2:03 PM)

If Fred Taylor can stay healthy, then I think he'll be a fine addition for the Patriots. But the guy to watch is Laurence Maroney.

Wilson (Miami)

what's the story with Donald Thomas's injury? Do you like the Dolphins' O-line even without him? or does their success hinge on his health?

Tim Graham

  (2:04 PM)

Donald Thomas is ahead of schedule in his rehab and should be ready to go at the start of training camp. I don't see him as a difference-maker on that line. He was viewed as a project when the Dolphins drafted him out of UConn. He was discovered playing pickup basketball and didn't start until his senior year.

Brian (NYC)

Toss the baton back to Seifert.

Tim Graham

  (2:05 PM)

That's illegal, and you should be ashamed for suggesting it.

Wilson (Miami)

Bloggers/Beatwriters down here keep raving about Theodore Ginn Jr.'s progress this offseason - how true or overblown is this story?

Tim Graham

  (2:06 PM)

I know all the bloggers and beat writers down there, and, no, they aren't raving. They've been passing along what Tony Sparano has said, but I wouldn't say we've been blown away by what we've seen from Ginn in shorts and T-shirts.

Tim Graham

  (2:07 PM)

The belief is that he'll be better this year. The third season is when the game slows down for receivers and they often put it together. The Dolphins are hopeful.

Reid (The 802)

Maybe spygate didn't help the patriots in their 18-1 season but how can you say it would not have benefited the team on their earlier superbowl runs when they had subpar offensive talent and tom brady was a rookie?

Tim Graham

  (2:08 PM)

How pathetic.

Robert (Buffalo)

Tim, from your picture you look like a Michael Jackson fan... Just saying...

Tim Graham

  (2:08 PM)

I didn't know Michael Jackson fans had a "look."

Brian (Richmond, VA)

Do you think we will ever see another duo break the Manning to Harrison TD record? Its amazing that the Colts have stuck together this long when it comes to do with free agency. If you had to take one duo right now for the next 5 years, who would it be?

Tim Graham

  (2:09 PM)

That could be one of the unbreakable records.

Jason (NY)

How do you see the Jets faring this season with newly acquired Mark Sanchez and Rex Ryan among many?

Tim Graham

  (2:10 PM)

I think they'll do well. If Ryan's defense even slightly resembles the Ravens, they'll be fun to watch. As for Sanchez, the Jets expect him to be like Joe Flacco was last year: Play it safe, hand the ball off, no royal screwups.

vin (KC)

Tim, do you think Strahan would have been ranked so high if he had played in a different market?

Tim Graham

  (2:11 PM)

I do. His stats tell the story.

Derek (KC)

Tim closet pats fan? all i see you do is defend them with rude answers

Tim Graham

  (2:12 PM)

I don't pull for anybody. I grew up in Cleveland and followed the Browns until they moved to Baltimore.

Tim Graham

  (2:13 PM)

I don't defend the Patriots with rude answers. I give rude answers to people who can't recognize the Patriots as a great team.

Chris (New York, NY)

Please tell Wilson from Miami that he's been hanging out with pre-2007 Ricky Williams too much if he really buys the Ginn Jr. hype

Urban Meyer (Gainesville)

You're either for Tim Graham or against him. If you're for him, you can buy a ticket for 37F and watch the chat from there.

jason (LA)

i know you said the dolphins don't use the wildcat as much as people say but i beleive they did score most of their pionts that way, any comments

Tim Graham

  (2:14 PM)

You're wrong.

Tim Graham

  (2:15 PM)

I'll try to look it up before my time is up at 2:30

Wilson (Miami, FL)

Relax Chris, i nearly stopped watching the NFL after they drafted him - just trying to make the best out of the terrible Cam Cameron era.

Tom (Seattle)

From Cleveland? Have you seen the Cleveland Tourism videos on youtube? Highly recommended, just search for it.

Tim Graham

  (2:17 PM)

They are funny. Well, the first one was. They do get a little redundant.

Jon (LA)

Best case scenario for the Bills Aaron Maybin? Do you see him making an impact this year?

Tim Graham

  (2:18 PM)

I think he will need time to develop. He started only one season at Penn State. He's still maturing as an athlete. But he comes from a great background and seems like a high-character kid.

Patrick (Pittsburgh)

I just wanted to jump in about Tom Brady having a model life. He is not a role model for kids and others. Leaving a girlfriend pregnant? He is leader on field but certainly not in the role model world.

Tim Graham

  (2:21 PM)

I agree. He puts Travis Henry to shame. I'll bet Brady doesn't even enjoy spending time with his son so much. Heck, all those pictures of them together are probably staged.

Travis ((SC))

I agree with most of The All-Decade Team, but I would put Manning over Brady. It's like comparing Bill Russell to Michael Jordan. Russell obviously has the more titles, but Jordan was the best...Manning has been so consistent and plays every game to the fullest

Tim Graham

  (2:22 PM)

The debate is a great one. I can see both sides, but championships are the defining factor in my mind.

Tim Graham

  (2:22 PM)

Brady has twice as many Super Bowl MVPs as Peyton Manning has appearances.

Matt (Philly)

Does Matt Cassell's success and 300 yard games diminish Brady's numbers at all? Cassell did step in and put up huge numbers.

Tim Graham

  (2:24 PM)

We can't say for sure because we still don't know how good of a quarterback Cassel is. Maybe he's better than everybody assumed.

I disagree (here)

Brady also had Vince Wilfork, Ted Washington, Richard Seymour, Mike Vrabel, Ted Johnson, Teddy Bruschi, Rodney Harrison, Ty Law, Asante Samuel, Ellis Hobbs...

Tim Graham

  (2:25 PM)

Manning, on the other hand, snapped the ball to himself. He threw the ball into the air, ran under it and caught it like a kid in the backyard.

Kyle (Boston, MA)

Matt (Philly) With the same offense Brady put up historic numbers and went almost 19-0. Cassel's year doesn't compare...and I am a Pats fan.

jason (LA)

have any of the AFC east teams signed their draft picks?

Tim Graham

  (2:26 PM)

There have been many. You might recall the world reporting about Mark Sanchez signing a couple weeks ago.

Robert (Latrobe, PA)

Here's a hypothetical question. Apparently in 2000 Belichick was genuinely torn between Brady and Tim Rattay. If they had picked Rattay, would Belichick have three titles? Honestly, I think Rattay would have succeeded, but Brady and his coach seem to be the perfect complement.

Tim Graham

  (2:27 PM)

Great hypothetical. I do agree with you about Belichick and Brady. Did Belichick's system make Brady? Did Brady make Belichick? Does it matter?

Eric (Syracuse)

Bills fan here. I loved the Eric Wood pick and think he's the best interior linemen since Kent Hull. Have you got a chance to see this kid play yet? I can't wait to check him out at training camp.

Tim Graham

  (2:28 PM)

I saw him at minicamp and he wasn't with the first team. They're easing him in. And they weren't in pads. We'll get a better idea when they start thumping next month in training camp.

Michael (CA)

Super Bowl wins are the achievement of an entire team, not just one player. The fact is that Brady had a better team around him than Manning did.

Tim Graham

  (2:31 PM)

Manning had a better offense than Brady. Better receivers, better backs. Do Colts fans think guys like Jeff Saturday are stiffs? The way you use this tired argument makes me wonder if the Colts were comprised of players who wouldn't crack the lineup on other teams.

Scott (Wikipaw)

Every AFC East team runs the 3-4...the Bills run the 4-3...Do you see that benefitting the Bills since the other teams in the East won't be seeing it as much?

Tim Graham

  (2:31 PM)

The Bills went 0-6 against the AFC East last year. ... That's my time, folks. Enjoy AFC West guru Bill Williamson.

Bill Williamson

  (2:31 PM)

Hi everyone, this is AFC West blogger Bill Williamson. Let's get started.

Shane (Los Angeles, CA)

I think Brady vs. Manning is a healthy debate; however, not only does Brady have more rings, Brady's playoff record crushes Manning's. And while Manning fans (and I am one) might say a lot of his losses weren't his fault, records are solely associated with QBs and coaches. I cant recall the last time a commentator said about a lineman (or any other position), "This Center's playoff record is 14-7."

Bill Williamson

  (2:34 PM)

Manning was a worthy candidate and a lot of people are upset he wasn't the choice. But I bet a lot more people would be uspet if Brady wans't the choice. The Super Bowls, the playoff record. He can't be denied ... And he wasn't.

Jason (PA)

As a Dolphins fan, I hate Tom Brady. But it's cause he's so good. Let's face it, a sign of a truly great player is the amount of people trying to undermine his accomplishments.

Bill Williamson

  (2:35 PM)

That's the ultimate compliment from a rival.

Bill Williamson

  (2:35 PM)

That's the ultimate compliment from a rival.

Eric (Syracuse)

Who's the best young back in the league not named Peterson, I think it's got to be Lynch and Forte.

Bill Williamson

  (2:36 PM)

I like Forte. A couple of guys in my division -- Darren McFadden and Knowshon Moreno -- may open eyes in the next couple of years.

Ron (Cleveland)

Of the QB's taken in the 2004 draft, isn't Rivers the best? Why no mention of him on the all decade team?

Bill Williamson

  (2:38 PM)

The all-decade team is an elite group. Rivers has been very good, but he has only started for three years. Big Ben has two Super Bowl rings. Plus, Rivers may make a run at the honor next decade.

Rachel (Boston)

Bill you said it perfectly a few posts back. Of course people are upset Manning was left off, he is an all-time great QB. But imagine the backlash if Brady was left off. That argument would be a lot harder to make.

Bill Williamson

  (2:39 PM)

I really think that's the case. This is a great example of how great these two players are and how lucky we are to watch two of the all-time greats play together.

Nellie (San Jose)

Can the Raiders go 10-6 this year??

Bill Williamson

  (2:40 PM)

I think Raiders fans would be thrilled if their team went 8-8, breaking an ugly six-yer streak of a total of 24 wins.

Brendan (Wantagh)

Who is better Ed Reed or Troy Polamalu?

Bill Williamson

  (2:41 PM)

Tough, tough, tough ... Personally, I'm a big Polamalu guy. It's Brady-Manning on a smaller scale.

Elliot (Endicott)

If Dick Jauron goes 7-9 for a 4th straight year, does he finally get fired?

Bill Williamson

  (2:41 PM)

If there aren't a lot fo injuries, probably.

Michael (san diego)

where is romanowski? on the list?

Bill Williamson

  (2:42 PM)

Stop looking. He's not on it.

Lambert (Nashville)

Bill....as seeing the Chiefs aquiring Matt Cassel from the Pats this year do you think that the Chiefs have a legitimate shot at the playoffs in the next few years, or do they have many years to go like the Raiders from making it there?

Bill Williamson

  (2:43 PM)

I think the Chiefs are slowly on the right track. But they may need more time. They have to get that defense on track.

Shane (Los Angeles, CA)

Name a current player you think is a sure fire bet for the next All Decade Team...Id have to say Fizgerald.

Bill Williamson

  (2:44 PM)

Great question, Shane. I agree but let me give you two ... Adrian Peterson. Matt Ryan.

Garrett (New England)

Manning is better that Brady, Bob Sanders is better than Reed or Palamalu, And the best reciever is marvin Harrison no one even compares to him.

Bill Williamson

  (2:44 PM)

WHo's your favorite team, Garrett?

Corey (D.C.)

I think there should be an honorary All-Decade spot for Pat Tillman. Its still difficult to comprehend what he did. Truly amazing, and sad.

Bill Williamson

  (2:45 PM)

Nice call, Corey, nice call. I covered Mr. Tillman in high school once. You could tell then he was special.

Ray (Orlando,FL)

where is Steve Smith on the all decade team? Only WR this decade with the triple crown

Bill Williamson

  (2:46 PM)

He's been great, but that is a tough posiiton to crack. There has bene some terrific performances this decade

Kwhami (San Diego, CA)

Will Michael Vick make an appearance on the field THIS season?

Bill Williamson

  (2:47 PM)

It's getting awfully late. It's starting to look like a long shot.

Podunk (Minnesota)

Everyone Knows that that ESPN loves East Coast Team...and the Lakers, but anyway if Peyton Manning were on the Patriots...He would be our winner, as he should be

Bill Williamson

  (2:48 PM)

If he won three Super Bowl and knocked the Colts out of the playoffs a lot, Yeah he probably would be the guy if he was in New England.

Oral Roberts (San Diego, CA)

How long is Brandon Marshall going to milk this situation in Denver? We have Cutler wanting him in Chicago - I have doubts about Denver's ability to handle the situation and keep Marshall happy. Is this the big one that is going to topple McDaniels?

Bill Williamson

  (2:49 PM)

Denver wants to keep him and until the Broncos change their minds, he'll stay in Denver.

Will (SD 619)

Bill, honest opinion. Who is your team left standing in February out of the AFC?

Bill Williamson

  (2:51 PM)

My pick right now (I reserve the right to change my mind often until opening day) New England.

Jason (Pen Argyl)

did vinatieri make belicheck and brady should be the real question

Bill Williamson

  (2:51 PM)

He'd make them, but he helped their legacies, no doubt.

Mike (SF, CA)

I'd put Demarcus Ware on that next all-decade team...but only if he wins some playoff games.

Bill Williamson

  (2:53 PM)

He's a definite candidate.

Rico (Gardena)

Way would Denver want to keep Marshall around when he is already unhappy, and appears to be milking the situation? Isn't he bad for the clubhouse?

Bill Williamson

  (2:53 PM)

You can't trade every unhappy guy. There wouldn't be many people left in some cities.

Steve (Boston)

Matt Castle showed everyone last season that Tom Brady is the product of a great Coaches system. The Pats would have still been this competitive had they had Ryan Leaf at QB, because they still would have had Belichick.

Bill Williamson

  (2:54 PM)

OK, but they didn't even get to the playoffs.

David Carter (Greensboro, NC)

How well do you think the Niners will do this year and do you think they are headed in the right direction with coaching or should we go after Shanahan.

Bill Williamson

  (2:55 PM)

Shanahan? Interesting. If the current setup blows up, I could see it. Shanahan loved his time in S.F. My best guess for his next landing spot, though, remains Washington.

Travis (Nebraska)

We heard the other blogger's opinions regarding Holt over Moss for all decade team. What is yours?

Bill Williamson

  (2:57 PM)

I covered Moss for four seasons. He was great. I didn't have anything to do with that call, but if it was up to me, I might put Moss over Holt. But Holt has big numbers as well.I just personally feel Moss was more dangerous and tougher to prepare for.

Don (Corning)

Is Joe Montana the greatest QB of all-time?

Bill Williamson

  (2:58 PM)

That's a whole different story. He'd have to be in the photo finish, don't you think? ... He's the original Brady.

Ben (Gainesville, FL)

Why is it that people think that Tebow won't be able to translate well into the NFL when he has more determination than any player I have ever seen.

Bill Williamson

  (2:59 PM)

I'd have to think there is a place in the NFL for that guy somewhere.

Will (SD 619)

Best '04 class QB? Rivers, Manning, or Roethisberger?

Bill Williamson

  (3:00 PM)

I truly think Rivers is the best player, but you can't argue with what Big Ben has done for those teams.

Wesley (Sacramento)

Which is more likely for Minnesota fans, Rubio or Favre signing?

Bill Williamson

  (3:00 PM)

Why not both?

Bill Williamson

  (3:01 PM)

Hey folks, great half hour. I hope you enjoyed our all-decade week. I know if gave you plenty to discuss in late June. Have a great weekened. My next chat is set for 4 p.m. ET Monday.