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Matt,With all of the changes the Eagles defense has seen, (loss of BDawk, Sheldon Brown soon to be bench warming, and the big loss of Jim Johnson) do you see this unit being good enough to be the best in the Beast?
Morgan, I think the Giants have the best defense in the Beast -- at this moment. But the Eagles will be fine. Quintin Mikell's a solid player and I think Quintin Demps will emerge as an adequate starter. I think the loss of Jim Johnson certainly hurts, but Sean's been around for awhile. And he'll eventually be a defensive coordinator in this league. So I think Johnson will still have plenty of influence -- it will just be executed differently.
hey matt love the blog my question is how would you rate the secondarys in the beast?
Thanks, Shaun. Here's how I'd rank them:1. Giants2. Eagles3. Redskins4. CowboysNot that the Cowboys have a bad secondary. Just a lot of solid players in the East. And I think the Eagles and Redskins are right there together, with the Cowboys a little behind them.
Hey Matt,I love your blog, I'm living abroad till January so I'll be reading it all the time to keep up with what's going on. Football is obviously a how can you perform right now, this season, but what I want to know is how do you think the Beast teams will stack up against each other 4 or 5 years down the road?
Abhi, we're really trying to grow our Singapore audience, so this is a good sign. As you noted, this is a win-now league. With free agency and then the potential of an uncapped season, I can't begin to look that far down the road.
Big fan of your blog and I'm a big time Giant's fan...With Michael Boley needing surgery and Clint Sintim injured as well, not to mention Pierce aging, should I be worried about the Giant's LB group entering the season?
I'd be a little worried if Boley doesn't make a pretty quick return. He was being counted on to help account for shifty running backs like Felix Jones and Brian Westbrook. His injury would worry me a little, yes. I think Pierce will come back really focused this season. I think he'll have a Pro Bowl quality season, so I'm not overly worried there. Sintim? I don't think they're counting on him to make an immediate impact, so don't lose too much sleep there.
Matt, my question is with the Giants receiving core? Do you really think the Nicks, and the rest of those guys they drafted can fill the shoes of one "I shot myself in the leg" Plax? How deep can we really go without a 'deep threat?'
I think Gilbride will sort of emphasize different parts of the offense without Plax. I think you'll see even more emphasis on the running game. And there's a chance that Domenik Hixon and Sinorice Moss can make a big impact as deep threats. I also think that Nicks will be ready to contribute early -- much like Jackson did with the Eagles.
Hey Beastmaster, hope you enjoyed Tkabbin Day. On that note, do you plan on joining in on the fun with the second coming of Tkabbin Day?
Blog editors prevent me from participating in inside jokes. But yes, it was a wonderful day for me. One I won't soon forget.
Feeling left out in Iowa as a Cowboys fan, I was wondering if you feel that the current debate about Americas team is fitting. Do you still see the Cowboys as Americas team? I do.
Ben, hang in there man. The Cowboys accepted the title "America's Team," in part, because the late Tex Schramm was a marketing genius. Other teams can try to argue for the title, but it just sort of makes them look desperate. Like it or not, the Cowboys are the most polarizing team in the NFL. They'll continue to be called "America's Team" -- even if half the country hates them.
Matty, the new format is HORRIBLE! Constantly having to refresh, and it's glitchy!
I'm looking into this.
So Devin Thomas - is he your Redskin breakout player because you really like him, or because there just aren't any good candidates on the Skins (sigh)?
Dan, I think he has a wonderful opportunity in front of him. Is he mature enough to recognize that? We're about to find out.
To keep up with the Giants questions, what do you think is their biggest weakness as a team?
I think they have a lot of depth at linebacker. But that's the position that concerns me the most -- based on Boley's injury and Pierce's play last December. But again, I think AP's coming back strong this season.
What is happening at CB in Philly? Asante has one spot locked up and Joselio Hanson has the nickel spot locked up (I?d assume). Sheldon Brown is a borderline Pro Bowler and I?m sure Ellis Hobbs doesn?t have the dime CB spot in mind. Is Brown going to be traded or will this be another Lito situation where somebody ? likely Brown ? sits on the bench.
Brown will be on the bench -- unless a cornerback gets injured in another camp and the Eagles can get a third-round pick for him.
Hey matt....loyal beast follower here...are the Giants going to increase Jacobs carries this year? I'm worried he might not be ready to go late in the season if we do that. Is Bradshaw gonna get Ward's carries? I hope so, I think he can really break it open.
I don't think Jacobs will see an increase in carries. The Giants will probably carry three backs to the games -- maybe four -- and Gilbride will ride the hot hand. Early on, Bradshaw will get a shot at filling Ward's shoes.
do you think the giants new practice dome will actually have a positive impact on the deep ball game?
No, I don't think it matters.
Do people not realize how good Quintin Mikell was last year? He was named one of the top 2 safeties in the entire NFC with his second team all-pro selection. Throw in Pro-Bowl Asante, and proven vets like Sheldon, Ellis, and young Joselio, that is a lot of proven depth and really cool first names. How can the Giants secondar
Sanjay, the Giants have two Pro Bowl-caliber corners -- in my opinion. And I think Kenny Phillips is on the verge of becoming a star at safety. Throw in Michael Johnson -- and you have the makings of an elite secondary. You could make an argument that both units are top three in the league.
What do you think distinguishes Eli from the other QBs in the NFC East?
Mouth-breathing
Matty, I must disagree with the Felix Jones pick. My pick is Martellus Bennett. As long as he keeps his dirty raps to himself, I think he'll grab 8 touchdowns. I think the combo of Witten and him will blow people away next year!
Let's tap the brakes on the Martellus to the Pro Bowl talk. Immense talent. But he's still an immature guy who doesn't have much of a track record. Beware of the OTA stars.
Why is everyone so down on the skins? No one even has them ranked in the top 20 which is rediculous. With all of the off season moves, the draft, and a QB in an offense that he finally knows, I think that we have a shot at winning the division not to mention the conference. Your thoughts?
It's not that everyone's down on the Skins. It's the fact they play in the best division in football. I don't see how you can make the argument that the Skins are in better position than either the Giants or Eagles heading into training camp. It's just not a logical thing to suggest. But I appreciate your participation.
Will you be attending the training camps this year?
Yep! Probably start out in San Antonio for a couple days in early August and then begin my Northeast tour. Redskins on Aug. 10-11, Eagles 12-13 and Giants 14-15. How's that sound?
Do you think the giants will come into this season hungrier then last ? After winning the superbowl the Giants played well but this season they have the bad taste in their mouth from the loss in philly. Do they have something to prove or was 2007 a fluke ?
yes
What rookie will have the biggest impact for each team? For the division?
Cowboys -- BuehlerEagles -- McCoyGiants -- NicksRedskins -- Orakpo
Any chance the Giants or Eagles go after Braylon or Anquan between now and camp?
nope...not unless someone gets hurt
Matt I need to do a wedding speech this weekend (toast to the groom). Any tips?
I've done some "important" work in this area, Jason. I've never performed in front of a Canadian audience, but my best material in the past involves a solid misdirection play/joke. Say something about how much you love the groom and how much his friendship has meant to you. Let the emotion build. Then say, "And that's why I'm mad as hell I'm not the Best Man."Good joke to use -- unless you're actually the Best Man.
Who is the best interview in the division? Who is someone who is difficult to get a quote from?
My favorite interview is Justin Tuck. He's a big supporter of the Beast blog. Asante Samuel is a very elusive quote -- and I'm not sure why. He's sort of protected by Eagles P.R. -- and I've never been told why. Maybe it's all that time he spent with Belichick.
Matt: Do you see Macho Harris having any impact on the Eagles?
I think he could help you in the return game and eventually help out in some sub packages.
What are the chances the Skins win the division? I know...bring on the hate...
slim to none
whats the best rivalry in the beast?
I think Giants-Eagles is pretty amazing right now. Historically, Redskins-Cowboys was the best. But right now, here's how I'd rank them:1. Giants-Eagles2. Cowboys-Eagles3. Cowboys Giants
Do you think the Dallas offense is more relaxed without TO? Who do you think is benefiting the most, besides for Roy Williams?
I have no clue. Haven't even seen one training camp practice. That's when I'll start making snap judgments. We're taking a vacation from T.O. talk. Did you not get the memo?
Not logical to suggest the skins winning the division? Where is the logic behind ranking them in the bottom third of the league, a team that finished 8/8 and seems to have made significant improvements on an allready stellar D. With an offense that is playing in the same system for the second year in a row with three second year, second round draft pick, pass catchers that typically take 2-3 years to develop. If we are going on logic then we must do so on all topics, yes it is illogical to place the skins ahead of the eagles or giants but it is also illogical to rank them in the bottom 1/3 of the league.
Thank you sir.
Matt, In your opinion, who is the best in-game coach in the Beast? Adjustments, strategy, etc?
Coughlin...Or if we're talking assistant, I would say Jim Johnson.
Mike Florio from SportingNews.com said, "With an Eagles team that is suddenly loaded at receiver, this could be McNabb's year both to win a title, and be named the most valuable player in the sport." What do you think about that statement? I personally think the iggles can win a championship but do you think donovan has a legitimate shot at MVP?
Shane, how do you spell hyperbole? No, it sounds like a legitimate statement to me. Do I think McNabb will be the league MVP? No. But I certainly think the Eagles have as good a shot as anyone in the NFC to reach the Super Bowl.
Matt, historical question: Why did Jerry stick with Dave Campo for 3 years as HC? Looking back on it, I still can't understand it!
Dave's such a good guy that Jones needed to try it for a little while. And if you haven't heard, Jerry sort of likes the puppet head coach. Campo was a fine defensive assistant, but he simply wasn't cut out to be a head coach. He might even admit that to you.
If the GMen were so confident that Nicks would be a big time reciever right away, why were there so many rumors that they were trying to trade up for Heyward-Bey or Maclin?
Listen, you have to explore all the opportunities. But just because they inquired about moving up isn't a knock on Nicks. I wouldn't read much into that stuff at all. Most teams at least ask around about moving up.
Whats going on at LB for the Eagles? I know Bradley is legit in the middle, but are Gocong and Akeem Jordan aqeduate at MIKE and WILL, or should Omar Gaither get another chance?
It will be tough for Gaither to play himself back into good graces. And Jordan was one of those guys Johnson fell in love with because he flew all over the field. Hard to overcome that type of effort.
My bad -- you already addressed Jacobs and the carries...with that said, though, why are the Giants committed to the running back by committee setup?
That's the way it's done in the NFL these days. Jacobs administers -- and receives - a lot of punishment. No matter how big a guy is, he can only take so many hits. Ask Marion Barber. The Giants know that Jacobs is more effective if they limit his carries to somewhere in the 15-20 range.
I know the rivalries are historic and all but wouldn't it make more sense for Dallas to be in the NFC South and Carolina to be in the NFC East?
no thanks
Who's the best fullback in the beast? If you don't say Mad Man Seller's you're crazy!!
Weaver's pretty solid. But yes, give me Mike Sellers.
The ESPN Rumor page has Doug Free listed as a potential serviceable backup/replacement for Flozel. Overhype?
Is Doug Free still on the roster? Really?
no love for madison hedgcock come on ?
yes, he's solid too.
Matt are we still going on our honeymoon in Cabo?
shhhhhhhh
Any word about how Barnes is looking as a rookie for the Skins? I would like to see him take over Smoot's nickle spot. Although i love smoot. Don't trust Tryon but been hearing good things
Jerry Gray and I talked yesterday. I'll have more on that on the Beast.
As an eagles fan, should it be of concern that westbrooks latest injury was kind of out of left field? couldnt this issue have been addressed months ago? i cant imagine him completing more than 10 games this year....ugh
Just be glad it's all being addressed now -- instead of during training camp. I think he'll make it 14 games.
Have the Redskins stopped looking for my replacement yet? I'd like to know if I should put my house up for sale, this market is terrible!
No, the Skins haven't stopped. They're just getting started. But a good season could silence some of the critics -- namely the owner.
I am not sure why every way made it seem Plax was a world beater last season he was benched by coughlin and had 3 td's i know he commands double teams but he was not jerry rice last season. Am i can crazy to think Hixon Smith Moss and Nicks and even Barden in goaline situations are sufficient?
I know he didn't put up big numbers last season, but his presence alone is a threat. And every defensive coordinator will tell you that -- especially Jim Johnson. But yes, I think the guys you mentioned could develop into a good group in the red zone. Was that what you were asking?
kevin kolb....if he had lived up to his potential would mcnabb have received his raise?...or are they totally unrelated? i say hes a bust....
Tom, I'm cutting you off. That's two in the last 10 minutes! We'll never know what would've happened if Kolb lit it up in the second half against the Ravens. We know what Reid has said, but I'm not sure what he would've done.
Is Greg Blache changing his defensive philosophy with Haynesworth on the roster?
It's not like he's overhauling his defensive philosophy, but yes, I think he'll play to Al's strengths.
Do you think Jeremy Maclin will get on the field nearly as much as Desean did last year? Historically, Andy Reid likes to make his young recievers ride it out on the bench.
Jackson was sort of forced into action because of injury. The Eagles may take a slower approach with Maclin -- but he'll be in there at some point.
Matt - everyone always accuses you of playing division favorite and hating on the Cowboys/loving the Giants. Now I am accusing you of playing chat room favorites with Mr. Rick and Mr. Tom. Can a brotha get some love?
Word
Im leaving the chat alone cuz i cant get a question in.
Oh no!!!!!!! Don't leave, tmoney...
Hey Matt, love the work. Do you think the cowboys are just getting started in terms of their creativity of getting playmakers on the field on offense? A lot of their efforts seemed forced last year after Romo got hurt, but hopefully healthy faces of Felix Jones, Choice, and Austin will help them out in that department. Also, any chane the Boys will find a true FB and utilize them anytime soon?
Moose, you were the last of the great fullbacks in Dallas. Guys like Deon Anderson can help you occasionally, but the fullback on this team isn't a huge focal point. In terms of creativity, Jason Garrett has to figure out a way to utilize three talented backs. And I think he will. He better.
why would the redskins draft such a highly touted DE like orakpo only to have him running around tireing himself out on 1st and 2nd down? do they honestly expect him to have the same burst off the line when he was just chasing a tight end off the field?what about former #1 LB prospect Willie Williams? id give the kid a shot on his potential alone...
Don't get me started on this topic. I'm still holding out hope the Skins will come to their senses. I'm surprised their fan base (that hangs out on the Beast) is so optimistic about the move to linebacker. Orakpo needs to be quarterback hunting on almost every play -- not chasing running backs and tight ends. You're exactly right.
Ok so I see you seem to answer atleast one kenny phillips question a week so how bout one about laron landry, the best safey in the division? What kind of year do you see him having? He's a beast at times, and is constantly held back due to being played 30 yards off the LOS. Do you see this changing at all this year w/ haynesworth and orakpo(i hope) joining the d line?
We only have three minutes left. It's just gut-wrenching to say goodbye to you guys. I think Landry's as talented as anyone in the division. I also think it's hard to be aggressive when you're trying to make sure a rookie doesn't screw anything up. This year, the Skins will have more faith in Horton -- because he's earned that. It's time for Landry to live up to his immense potential. I think he'll do that in '09.
Explain to me how the Cowboys' secondary is any worse than it was last year? Jenkins and Scandrick played a big role last year, and they'll play a big role this year; what exactly is the difference? They also replace Roy Williams with Sensabaugh who can actually cover. For my money they'll be better on defense and about the same on offense, with more of an emphasis on running the ball. Barring any major injuries (especially to Romo) they should make the playoffs.
Well, they certainly lost some depth. No Pacman and no Anthony Henry. You may laugh at Henry, but the guy was still a serviceable player who got his hands on the ball. Right now, you have two second-year players fighting for a starting spot and a player in Terence Newman who gets hurt quite a bit. If you're not worried about that, congrats on being a more optimistic person. You guys have been wonderful. I'll miss you terribly while on vacation the next two Tuesdays.