ESPN

Paul Kuharsky

  (2:58 PM)

Good afternoon all. Thanks for stopping by. Let's cover some ground...

Jake (Fishers, IN)

Is it too early to call Fili Moala a bust at this point?

Paul Kuharsky

  (2:58 PM)

Six games into anyone's career is too early, of course.

matt (costa rica)

how do you think vince young starting affects Scaife?

Paul Kuharsky

  (2:59 PM)

Scaife gets targeted more. Young works inside out, Collins outside in, is my perception.

Finley (via mobile)

Ok man, I can't stand this any longer. I don't know what this thing is that you guys brought home with you, but I'm not getting any sleep. I demand to be traded to the AFC East blogger.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:00 PM)

Then why are you so protective? You're like his little guard dog. You've done very well. We're proud of you and there may be a big new bone in this for you.

Matt D (newcastle,Australia)

G'day Paul love the chats, i'm still trying to fully understand the nfl game. I'm a titans fan and am wondering, if they are going to go through a small rebuilding stage, why can't they look at changing their defensive scheme to a 3-4. It doesn't seem they are getting the pass rush that they had with big Al, wouldn't this be something they can look at. What chances do you think they have of getting either Kevin Kolb or Jason Campbell? Thanks

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:01 PM)

Kolb would be expensive. Campbell is horrible. They don't have 3-4 personnel and that transition takes time. They need better 4-3 players not a new scheme.

tyler (tennessee )

why is everyone doubting vince young? i dont understand.. did they forget about his rookie season? he can do it, i have faith in vince young and i know he can get the job done, and what is jeff fishers problem with him?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:02 PM)

His rookie season is a lot less recent than a poor season and an attempt to quit during a game.

Stash (Fishers upper lip)

Hey Paul it looks like my "playoff" cousin Beard is coming back. Do you think this is intentional or do you think Face has been busy trying to squeeze Bud not to start VY? What do you think Paul? Starting VY good,Bad or doesnt matter at this point?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:03 PM)

The beard is gray. The gray makes you look old. Looking old makes it look like you've had sleepless nights trying to figure things out. That's what fans want to see when you are 0-6.

Kevin (Louisiana)

I know you don't like talk of a silly curse but you will let people pretend to be players so I figure you will let this slide... I'm wanting to see if any Steeler fans out there can tell us how to exercise the curse... Is it when White, Bulluck and Kearse are gone? If so, that might come in '10

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:04 PM)

Fisher addressed it at the thing where he wore they Manning jersey. Short of a formal apology in writing, shouldn't that have done it?

JB (TX)

PK, on behalf of the regular chatters around here I'd just like to say congrats on the birth of your son, and welcome back.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:04 PM)

Thank you very much. You were all very cool about my absence and I appreciate all the sincere good wishes.

Nick (Sarasota, Florida)

Hey Paul, love reading your blog. How would you rate this year's draft class for the Jags so far? It seems they are getting a lot of play from most of their rookies, but of course, they need them to play too.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:05 PM)

Best contribution from a draft class in the league, but also top five in need. A very good start for Gene Smith and something I plan to write about soon, especially if they win Sunday.

JB (TX)

PK, hypothetically, lets say VY has a decent finish to this season (5-5, 55-60% comp, more TD than INT) what are their realistic options? I know SF resigned Alex Smith to a more cap friendly deal after he struggled, could they go there with him? Or is this whole thing just a formality?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:06 PM)

I think it's a formality unless he really, really lights it up.

David (Indiana)

What is the status of Reggie Wayne? Polian said in his weekly article he was fine. Then last night on ESPNNews you said you were not sure. What is the status today?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:06 PM)

Didn't practice yesterday, don't know about today yet.

Dissatisfied in Texas (Houston)

Man, way to open up w/ 90% Titans questions, you know there are 3 teams w/ .500+ records in this division right?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:07 PM)

Seventy percent Titans' question in here it appears to me and they have news developments this week the three other teams are thrilled not to have. Can't answer what isn't asked.

Terence (Nashville)

What was ultimately the story on Patrick Ramsey? Was he insurance for a Collins injury in a playoff run?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:08 PM)

They liked him, he was insurance in camp in case VY really imploded, and then they didn't have room to carry a third.

Grant (Indiana)

How do you think the colts defense holds up against a "premiere" offense out there? Clearly, the secondary is very good, and with the miami game erased, the run defense has looked better too. Do they shut down an offense like the saints this year?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:10 PM)

I don't know about shutting down the Saints. I think they could do well enough to give the Colts offense a chance to win a game with a lot of points. I think Indy is better defensively than they get credit for, and it'll usually be that way when the Colts are good on that side of the ball because it's so much Manning's team.

Matt (Chico California)

Do you think Andre Johnson will play this weekend? If so will he be of any significance?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:10 PM)

Hard to say. I think Houston should be able to win in Buffalo without him if the Texans are what they think they are.

Craig G. (Fairfield, California)

Hey Paul, I would be as heated as LenDale if media members said my teammates weren't trying!

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:11 PM)

I'm, sick of hearing how the effort should be unquestioned. Just because they say it's there doesn't make it true.

Jason (Murfreesboro)

Which of the following QB's do you think might be a good fit for the Titans (assuming they don't use a draft pick) next year, and what price would their teams be asking?A. Kevin KolbB. Brady Quinn/Derek AndersonC. Alex SmithD. Matt Leinart

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:12 PM)

Kolb would be most expensive and the only guy who could be a clear No. 1 at the start. I think Leinart could still pan out, and that Arizona still has plan for him. I'd rather see a draft pick than any of those other guys.

Kevin (Louisiana)

I would think the Titans would be an attractive place of a head coaching gig... Do you think if Fisher gets bounced that Adams will try to "promote" someone much like he did with Fisher or we he go after someone with experience... there are alot of attractive names out there..

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:13 PM)

I think Fisher survives. If he was fired, he'd still be paid through 2011. I can't see Bud hiring one of the super-priced guys on top of that. I can't see promoting from a staff that's so closely tied to Fisher. How about Greg Williams?

Matt (Chicago)

Paul, should the Fins be worries about Shonn Greene? How much work do you see him getting in that game? (How well did I disguise my fantasy question?)

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:14 PM)

I put in a claim for Green but lost out.

Jon (Beaumont, Tx)

So maybe the Houston run defense isn't such a liability after all. Has the difference been coaching adjustments, players executing their assignments better, Pollard, or were those big runs early in the season just kinda fluky?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:15 PM)

See, here's where I think thinking gets clouded. Because they may have played better run defense against SF doesn't mean they played good run defense in Tennessee or that they were underrated back then. They were horrific then.

Jack (DC)

70% Titans; 20% about your dog or baby. I'd stick with the 90% statistic.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:15 PM)

Jack -- ASK A QUESTION!

BRIAN (Rochester NY)

What are the chances slaton has a break out week against the worst rush D in the NFL (bills)? maybe 200+ yards?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:16 PM)

I don't know about 200. But he's a definite play and I think they showed they are also willing to get him the ball in the air.

Dissatisfied in Texas (Houston)

Alright here's a question then, do Texans fans have a serious beef w/ the passive play-calling from Kubiak/Shannahan, esp. sitting on the rock with 1:40 left in the 2nd quarter on the 40 w/ 3 time outs left. Then they come out in the 2nd half and try to establish a running game which obviously isn't there when the passing game is tearing it up. Same thing vs. the Raiders.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:18 PM)

I think they took their foot of the gas a little, yes, and that it was a mistake. But it's a big leap to be willing and able to keep throwing with a big lead. Clock management late bothered me -- with Slaton going out of bounds (not smart) and then the incomplete pass.

Section516 (Houston)

Texans beat the niners at home, offense clicking, yet don't move up at all (even though stuffing the run once again)Whats the deal, PK?Can't move them up consistently untill they play consistent ball?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:18 PM)

Sometimes it has a lot more to do with what teams around the team in question does.

Brian F. (Jacksonville, FL)

If your Mel Tucker, what approach do you take to defending against a VY led TN offense? Do you think his legs will allow for a big game from CJ?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:19 PM)

Mix up the coverages. Make them complicated and unpredictable. Contain any run possibilities.

Chad (Las Cruces, NM)

Any updates on Mathis? Think they'd cover with Brackenridge or keep toying with Reggie Nelson at the corner opposite Cox?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:20 PM)

I don't know about Nelson as an outside corner. TB or even Starks? Asking a lot for Mathis to play with the sort of contraption he'll have to wear. How does he tackle in it?

Harish (Fargo ND)

Paul,I have heard a theory that ref's dont call many holding calls anymore, and thats downfall for smaller colts tackles. They seem to doing well this season. Are they calling more holding calls now?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:21 PM)

I haven't seen or heard anything to indicate there has been any dramatic change in the calls.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:22 PM)

Closer than their last three, sure.

Joshi (Tampa)

My Jaguars are running a 3-4 defense now for the most part. Is that a defense that is easier to build/draft than the 4-3?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:22 PM)

I don't think it's easier or harder, it's just different. And you need a couple years to stock up on suitable players and ingrain the system when you change from one to the other.

Scott (Ottawa, Canada)

John David Booty - Any chance he could stick with the Titans and be a late season answer this year or next?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:23 PM)

Don't think so.

Dave (Canada)

I see jacksonville having a real hard time building a fan base if half their games aren't shown locally on TV. Do you think that the NFL should get rid of the blackout rule so that teams like jacksonville can build a bigger fan base on tv?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:23 PM)

No, I think people in Jacksonville should go to the games.

pokerfitz or Kevin (pittsburgh)

How would you rate MJD's performance as a #1 back so far this season?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:25 PM)

Not bad. Like the scoring reliability. Like the 4.3 rushing average fine. Like the 105 yards a game total average. Like that he's not the leading receiver (though he's too close). Is 22 touches a game a good number for the long haul? That's the question we see answered come December.

Jared (Charlottesville, VA)

Is Miles Austin a 2-3 game highlight reel, or an emerging star? He seems to have the size/speed/hands to be the real deal.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:26 PM)

Definite emerging star. But now we see how he reacts to extra attention.

pokerfitz or Kevin (pittsburgh)

Why did they have to put the Jag/Tenn game on 4:05? Dont they know Brett Favre is going back to GB is gonna be on at the same time???

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:27 PM)

And that I want to watch the Yankees right after that when i will be writing?

Benjamin (Albany)

Bob McNair reportedly wants to lower player compensation from 60 percent..... is this the reason he hasnt paid demeco ryans or owen daniels yet? looking to cheatskate them until a new more owner friendly cba is in place?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:27 PM)

Possible factor. But if there is no new CBA, those guys are only restricted free agents and very affordable to keep.

Dennis (snowy Denver, Colorado)

Does Kubiak survive if the Texans don't make the playoffs?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:28 PM)

Probably. Especially if they have a good record.

James (Indy)

New baby I hear. Congrats PK! How is loss of sleep affecting your job?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:29 PM)

You tell me!

Jon (Alabama)

Jason Campbell is not horrible. The Redskins have no offensive line and have a bingo player as an offensive coordinator.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:29 PM)

There isn't a fan base in America that should be excited about the idea of him coming to them to be their new quarterback.

James (Indy)

Getting the feeling that Brown's shoulder is a little more severe than Polian is letting on. That's hard to imagine and all, but I really think we need him with Houston and the Pats on the horizon. Also think the 49ers will play us tough. Thoughts?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:30 PM)

Need him for sure. And those AFC games rate as a little more important.

Nate (Burns, TN)

Is the series effectively over after the Yankees lose tonight?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:30 PM)

Nope. Lost two at home to Atlanta in a World Series and then won four straight once upon a time. Can't believe the panic. They will not get rolled.

Harish (Fargo, ND)

Paul, Who will start when jackson and hayden are healthy? Can they sit powers/lacey? Colts secondary seems to be an embarassment of riches right now.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:31 PM)

I have no idea how they decide. You are absolutely right. They have a lot of great options when healthy. A remarkable group that also includes three high quality safeties.

Dustin (Stanford CA)

I am drinking the PK coolaid. VY is not the savior, JF is not getting fired, and Collins will still probably be around next year. As a Titans fan the PK coolaid tastes very sour to me. What is the good news PK? Young players developing? Team getting healthy? Where is the good news?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:32 PM)

Honestly, it's a force to point to good news. CJ is still a home run threat? Mark Jones doesn't fumble? This new punter has to be better?

Jason (Murfreesboro)

Are the recievers for the Titans so bad that it's making the QB look bad, or vice versa? Or are both the problem?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:33 PM)

Both. And VY is less accurate than Collins, which isn't going to make the receivers better. Not that they shouldn't catch what's thrown to them no matter who throws it.

Brian Pride (Scrap Heap)

Everyone is talking about this Terrible Towel Jinx. The real problem is the Titans should not have gotten rid of me. They need to start a tape ball and call it Brian Pride II. What do you think?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:34 PM)

The D-line was working on an upgrade -- a tape doll.

Peter King (30 Rock)

I blasted the jaguars for releasing Tony Pashos and Brian Williams and now both are out for the year. I would like to apologize to Gene Smith for doubting him........

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:35 PM)

So Gene Smith knew that Pashos and Williams were going to get hurt? C'mon. Good moves both, but let's not go crazy.

Ben (TX)

Who's your favorite team for the AFC North title?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:36 PM)

I still like Baltimore.

James (Indy)

Think Houston can at least split those two upcoming games with Indy? Maybe even steal both?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:36 PM)

Gotta get one to stake the claim of being legit.

Todd (LaVergne,TN.)

Your in the business of opinions. Do you have an opinion on Chuck Cecil as a D coordinator? or are you gonna lame out and say "too soon to tell" Dont give me the injuries in the secondary answer either because they stunk before the injuries.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:37 PM)

They absolutely stunk before the injuries. But it is too soon to tell. Gregg Williams and Jim Schwartz got time and Cecil will too.

Jon (Beaumont, Tx)

Fair enough. Not denying they were on pace to be historically bad, but it can't be denied that they have turned it around. B-Cush is a bonafide RotY candidate and Reeves/Quin/Pollard have vastly improved that suspect secondary. Honestly, with that powerful offense the defense need only be mediocre to compete.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:38 PM)

I agree -- mid-ranked defense can be more than good good enough if they are doing what they should on offense. Safety is a big issue to me and priority one for draft/ free agency.

Peyton (Nashville)

DID anybody have a bad practice this week?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:39 PM)

All phenomenal. Just excellent. Crisp. Efficient. It's a sign of good coaching you know.

Bryan (Brentwood)

What other changes do you see the Titans making at the different positions?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:39 PM)

Not much. Not much they can do.

Cam- Dog (IU (Indiana University))

Hey PK!,Do you think Ryan Lillja's return is a reason for the colts successes... The O-line has been SOLID only two sacks!!!

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:40 PM)

He's been a big help. But the protection isn't fantastic so much as Manning's ability to get rid of the ball.

Kenny Britt (Nashville)

Is my blocking so bad, that I can't beat Justin "Can't Catch Swine Flu" Gage out for the starting job?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:41 PM)

I don't care if you can't block at all, you should start ahead of him. Fisher loyalty in action. Maybe it's one of the changes.

Scott (Dallas)

The Texans need to use their 1st two draft picks on offensive linemen next April. Winston is a top five RT, but everyone else sucks.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:41 PM)

Need interior help for sure. But don't underrate the needs, plural, at safety.

Kyle (Denver)

Do you think Garcon is losing Peyton's/Coaches trust with the drops and fumbles? And over/under on 3.5 ER for Pedro tonight?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:41 PM)

Couple bad games may be just growing pains. Over.

josh Miller (jacksonville fl)

who is the best football player in the nfl

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:42 PM)

Right now it's Peyton Manning.

steve (the real UT)

I know you hate VY questions, but most every story about him mentions his 14mm against the cap next year. Why does this matter? Most sports writers/analysts seem to agree that there wont be a new cba and thus next year will be uncapped.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:42 PM)

Well a lot of it is also real money. Would you be paying him a lot of real money? A $4.25 million roster bonus, for example?

Nolan (Houston)

"Hard to say. I think Houston should be able to win in Buffalo without him if the Texans are what they think they are."I think the Texans KNOW they have one of the more potent offenses in the league. What do you think of the Texans, you seem to be extremely loyal to the Titans, and quite passive on the Texans. Is this the year for believers?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:44 PM)

I've been ripping the Titans, especially Fisher. I want to believe in the Texans, but how many times do we see them get to about here and then do something like lose in Buffalo? I would love for the Texans to be in the playoffs.

Kevin "Not Costner" Spacey (On Location)

Welcome back, Paul. Costner couldn't be here today but he still has a man crush on you.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:45 PM)

You were good in American Beauty and Usual Suspects. But K-Pax?

James (Indy)

Let's forecast a little here, PK. You think Indy drops a game to Houston? Do they end up with a playoff bye? Please say no...that is their kryptonite!!

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:45 PM)

Maybe a loss to Houston. Definitely a bye.

Todd (TX)

With Indy likely to let Bethea leave via FA, should the Texans sign him and then concentrate on offense in the draft.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:46 PM)

I like that. Then concentrate on interior O-line, big back, and another safety.

Bill Polian (my office)

Paul - I would like to affirm your choice to keep the Colts off the top of the Power Rankings. IN fact, we'd like to stay unbeaten but drop a few nothces to stay off the radar. Ama I crazy, or do you agree that we play better when people aren't gushing over us?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:46 PM)

People ARE gushing. You're damn good.

Peyton (Indy)

Who is the best at talking to the reporters in the NFL? I think its me.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:49 PM)

As good as you are, you don't talk often enough to be the best at it.

Nate (Burns, TN)

Jeff Fisher's teams used to blitz. Gregg Williams blitzed a lot... and even ran the 46 defense on occation. It wasn't until Swartz that we got away from blitzing. Has fisher completely changed his philosophy or is it a matter of giving his coaches the freedom to coach?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:50 PM)

Changed philosophy over time based on available talent. Once the couldn't replace Blaine and Marcus, things had to evolve.

Cameron (Indiana Univesity)

Jim Caldwell for coach of the year???

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:52 PM)

Tough to beat out McDaniels right now.

Roger (Ebert)

Have you been able to watch any of the new shows on tv this fall? If so which ones have been your favorites? Personally I give Modern Family and FlashFoward two thumbs up....

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:53 PM)

I am right with you. But the baby and the Yankees have me behind on both. So no spoilers, please.

Grant (Indiana)

What's the colts' biggest "need" right now? If you had to nitpick on one position

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:53 PM)

Left tackle.

Jon (Beaumont, Tx)

Does a 2nd string quarterback on a winless team generate more conversation that the best quarterback who ever lived playing at the peak of his career? No answer required because the answer is apparently yes.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:54 PM)

What Peyton topic shall we discuss? He's fantastic, playing incredibly well right now. There is nothing to debate or consider there, really.

Clay (NASHVILLE)

Both the Titans and Jags have a young TE that they each raved about during the OTA's and preseason, but neither has done anyghing. What our your thoughts and these two.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:55 PM)

They need some time. Different in that Cook did a lot in the preseason and Miller not so much.

JTB (Virginia Beach)

Paul,Do you think Fisher's Manning jersey stunt on the heels of the worst loss in team history played a factor in the QB change decision? It would be hard to fight Bud tooth and nail after being embarassed nationally.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:56 PM)

I don't. But I think Fisher was calculating and knew it would take attention off players for the bye. Instead of, "Dude, how can you guys be so bad," they all heard, "Dude, what's up with Fisher wearing Manning's jersey?"

Carl (Dallas)

How do these chats work? Do you have an assistant sifting through tons of questions, or are you all by yourself? How many questions do you estimate you get each hour?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:58 PM)

All me, Chief. I am looking at question 253 right now.

Mike (Indy)

Is it safe to say Haynesworth made Vanden Bosch? Couple stats pointing that way from MNF.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:59 PM)

Send a note to my mailbag. Let's look at what KVB did during Haynesworth's suspension. I bet he did fine.

Jessie (TX)

You are correct about the Texans needing a big back. I was really hoping Shonn Greene would slip to them in the 3rd round this years.

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:00 PM)

How about LenDale White?

Antonio Johnson (Colts Facility)

Paul,Boy did the Titans ever get a taste of their own medicine when the Colts picked me up from your practice squad. Now I'm the starting DT on the Colts. Why did the Titans let me go knowing big Albert was a questionable return?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:02 PM)

You are nowhere near Albert's class. But I also thought it was foolish to let you go.

Josh Miller (jacksonville fl)

what do the jags need to get better

Joe (Indy)

Paul,Has anyone ever said you look like Mr. Clean?

Finley (on the floor)

If I had opposable thumbs I would help sort through the questions.

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:03 PM)

Surgical possibilities?

pat (new york city)

PK do you thing regardless of vy's performance it has been decided that he will not be the franchise long term QB

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:05 PM)

By Fisher and Heimerdinger? Yes.

Dustin (Stanford CA)

Finley + Baby = New Facebook Profile Pic

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:05 PM)

Never!

Matt (IN)

Is left tackle really a need, or did you mean for depth? CJ has played real well for the Colts.

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:05 PM)

He's done OK, but he's not a long term, 16-week solution at a critical spot.

Joe (Indy)

HAHA, Good sense of humor paul. I know its been a tough year for you. Thanks.

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:06 PM)

Why has it been a tough year for me. Best year of my life.

Adam Jones (making it drizzle)

FYI I am available to babysit whenever needed.

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:07 PM)

I'll have my people call your people. If your people still have phones.

Awayne (INDY)

What's your thoughts on Jason Campbell in a Titan unform next year?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:07 PM)

Hate the idea. Don't think he's good at all.

Dustin (Stanford CA)

We still want a picture of this mythical beast named Finley.....

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:08 PM)

I'd paste the handsome canine right in here if I knew how.

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:09 PM)

Well folks, you've been wonderful as usual. The blog and travel plans for upcoming games beckon. See you next week, I hope. Cheers.