What does J-E-T-S spell? Inconsistent.

While nursing the consequences of a fun filled Saturday evening for my 25th birthday, Sunday's performance by the New York Football-less Jets could have given a sober 70 year old woman a hangover. For the past few weeks I've found myself looking desperately for the same team that manhandled the undefeated Tennessee Titans, and keep coming up with what looks like the same old disappointing Jets. They could have locked the division up weeks ago, but after disappointing losses to Denver and a horrendous 49ers team that was without Frank Gore for half the game, they continued their downward spiral yesterday. By some miraculous act of something otherworldly, they managed to score 10 points in the fourth quarter without even managing a first down. That's almost the equivalent of saying, they won the game even though the other team outplayed them...wait a minute, that's actually what happened.

Jets fans have the idiotic play calling of Bills coach Dick Jauron to thank for this half-hearted miracle that gave us an early Christmas present. Had Jauron called a running play and continued to give the ball to Marshawn Lynch (who the Jets couldn't tackle all afternoon), they'd probably have the win all locked up. I am convinced however, that Jauron did this to torture the soul of every Jets fan, including myself, who now have a renewed false sense of hope going into the last two games of the season.

The Gang Green go out to Seattle next weekend to play the Seahwawks, a team who barely beat the Rams yesterday, yet still nearly upset the Patriots last week. This is a game the Jets could very well lose, and judging by how they've played lately, have a 50/50 shot at losing. Jets play the Miami Dolphins in the final game of the season, which if both teams win next weekend will decide who takes the AFC East, and who gets to go home.

Games like the last 3 the Jets have played are the reason Brett Favre's beard gets a shade grayer each week (though he's partly to blame for their shortcomings this year) and may likely be his reason for actually retiring (again) after this season. I'd like to see Brett back (mainly because Kellen Clemens isn't our savior), but will not be angry or disappointed if he isn't. Eric Mangini is great at finding a game plan, and using it...for the entire season, even when it stops working or teams figure it out. Prime examples: They run the ball almost every time Leon Washington is on the field; If Brad Smith is in, they're going to some sort of ridiculous triple reverse option (Smith didn't play yesterday, and I think the team is better off with Clowney in. He's a faster and better receiver, and his name is Clowney.) They don't blitz anymore and wonder why Shaun Hill looked like the reincarnation of Joe Montana last weekend. Luckily J.P. Losman might be the worst QB on the planet, thus a main reason to why they won against the Bills.

Long story short (I know, too late.), the Jets, though they seemed to be the new and improved Jets at the start of the season and especially after the Titans game, are the same old Jets. Or as Mr. Hurley in "Big Daddy" called them, "The goddamn Jets." That's right, their horrendous shortcomings have been so bad in the 1990's/2000's that they get a shout out by a drunk old man at the Blarney Stone in an Adam Sandler film (If you saw the game yesterday you'd also notice Sandler was at the game, as well as Michael Douglas).

I really don't know where I'm going with this whole post other than to revoice what was once my former disdain for the New York Jets. I rewatched "Step Brothers" and "The Dark Knight" before and after the game yesterday in my day of lethargy, and both were more rewarding and fulfilling to watch than the Jets have been in the past 3 weeks. I hope this does not understate the greatness of both films, as it is not my intention for the overt crappiness of the Jets recently to be so dismal that it would mean watching "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift" would also be more rewarding or fulfilling.

One more sidenote: what the hell is up with Chad Pennington? The guy leaves the Jets then unleashes 40 yard passes of the likes we have never seen? Must be the warm Miami weather loosening up his once linguini-like arm.

WEEK 2 NFL PICKS!!!

WEEK 3:

Kansas City @ Atlanta: This one is a stinker, and after an impressive week 1 win, the Falcons proved they're still the Falcons last week. I still think Kansas City is a worse team, so Atlanta should take this one.

Oakland @ Buffalo: Buffalo will without a doubt move their record to 3-0 as the Raiders are without Justin Fargas. Darren McFadden is playing with a toe injury, but even at full strength, the Raiders inconsistent offense didn't stand a chance on the road to Buffalo.

Tampa Bay @ Chicago: Tampa Bay and Chicago still don't have a verdict on how they're looking for the season, but this should be an even keel matchup. I think Chicago will have the edge and win this one at home, perhaps with the help of Brian Urlacher's Old Spice Swagger.

Houston @ Tennessee: Houston has not shown much this season, and the Titans are 2-0, even with former booze hound quarterback Kerry Collins. The Titans should easily get the win at home in the land of Elvis.

Carolina @ Minnesota: Minnesota has Gus Frerotte starting for him. Yup, anyone with the first name Gus isn't a proven NFL QB. With Adrian Peterson nursing a hamstring injury, Gus will show us why he may make a career switch to the Bass Masters fishing circuit on Monday morning. Carolina, with Steve Smith back, should pull off the win on the road.

Miami @ New England: Miami will go to 0-3, no big surprise there. New England will go to 3-0, and I will still hate them, even without Tom Brady.

Cincinnati @ NY Giants: Cincinnati is closer to becoming this year's winner of the #1 draft pick for next season with every pathetic game they play this season. The defending champion Giants should easily embarrass the team and kindly allow fans to beat the NJ Turnpike traffic by the early fourth quarter when they have their third stringers in. Ocho Stinko, Johnny Carson Palmer, and T.J. HoushmandzIplayLikeYourMama will give the Cincy fans plenty to boo about once again.

Arizona @ Washington: Washington impressed with their first win last week, and the Cardinals put on a high flying circus show victory with the aerial assault of a vintage looking Kurt Warner. This should be a tight game that could turn into a barn burner on the scoreboard, but I think the Cardinals are the better team overall, and will win it.

Detroit @ San Fransisco: Both these teams have showed us in the first few weeks they haven't improved much, and perhaps even taken a couple steps back from last season. San Fransisco is the only one of the two who has won a game so far this season, so in this coin flip, I'll give them the edge to win with their home field advantage also on their side.

St. Louis @ Seattle: Both teams are pretty crappy, but the Rams are in heavy contention for best shot at the biggest loser this season along with Cincinnati. I think Seattle will take this one at home, and St. Louis will come closer to interviewing new head coaches.

New Orleans @ Denver: This one should be a high flying passing show between two teams who are sure to score over 30 points each. I think right now, Denver is the better team, but the Saints have potential once they have a few more games under their belts. The Broncos will win this one at home, and Ed Hochuli won't have to be there to help them this week.

Pittsburgh @ Philadelphia: Philly impressed a lot of people with that hard fought game in Dallas last Monday night, which ended (barely) in a loss on their record. Based on that performance, and with the Philly fans rallying behind their on again off again lovefest with QB Donovan McNabb, they should win this game against the Steelers. Willie Parker's ridiculous performances should slow down this week, proving to be the advantage for Philly in this battle of Pennsylvanians.

Jacksonville @ Indianapolis: The Colts defense will be hindered with the loss of Bob Sanders. However, Jeff Saturday and Dallas Clark are likely to be back in the lineup for the Colts offense. Even with the series of injuries they faced, the Colts would have won. Now, having their once highly feared offense nearly at full strength, they should easily get the first win at their new stadium.

Cleveland @ Baltimore: These division rivals are likely not going to get a shot at winning their division this year with the Steelers playing so well, but either one's win this week will certainly get them back in the mix. Baltimore lost a heartbreaker to Pittsburgh last week in the midst of a monsoon, and the Ravens had an unexpected by due to Hurricane Ike which put their game against the Texans on hold. With that extra rest, I think the Ravens should win against the Browns, who are still battling injuries.

**UPSET OF THE WEEK**

Dallas @ Green Bay: Green Bay's post-Brett Favre era has started off impressively with new stud QB Aaron Rodgers. Dallas, however, is still the favorite in the NFC right now and many people pick them to win this one as they are far superior to Green Bay's first two opponents, Minnesota and Detroit. Green Bay should still win their division, and most think they don't have a shot in this one, but with Green Bay at home, I'm picking them to upset the Cowboys who are working on a short week and a close, high-scoring shootout with the Eagles.

NY Jets @ San Diego: The Jets really made me sick last week. There I said it. The Chargers were robbed of a victory last week, which means they will be foaming at the mouth like a grizzly bear on Shawn Merriman's stash of steroids. (He's got plenty extra laying around now that he's done for the season with the bum knee) Even though Ladanian Tomlinson might be on the sidelines, I still just don't see the Chargers going 0-3. I will be ecstatic if the Jets pull off this road win on Monday night, but would also be very fool hearted to expect such. I think the Chargers will win, but would happily call myself a fool on Tuesday morning if the Jets pull off the upset.

NFL Week 2 Results!!!

(Picture above: a furious Norv Turner on the blown call hear round the world in Week 2)

Tennessee 24, Cincinnati, 7: The Titans won again, as I predicted, along with everyone else in the coutnry. The Bengals spent their week two bolstering their competition with the Rams for crappiest team in the league

Green Bay 48, Detroit 25: As predicted the Pack went 2-0 under new stud quarterback Aaron "Not related to the former lead singer of Bad Company, current lead singer of Queen's Paul" Rodgers.
Oakland 23, Kansas City, 8: This one was pretty much a clownshow as expected, the Raiders won in an uneventful matchup. I called it, crappy game, crappy Oakland win.

NY Giants 41, St. Louis 13: Mark Bulger continues to stink up my fantasy bench, and as we all thought, the G-Men went to 2-0 playing what resembled a Kentucky Division 2 High School football team. Way to go Rams, your city has the highest crime rate in the nation, and you have the lowest sense of self esteem in the NFL.

Indianapolis 18, Minnesota 15: I said this one would be decent, but we didn't expect a last second nailbiter. With seconds left in the game Adam "I wear little kicker's shoes but still have 3 Super Bowl rings" Vinatieri won it with a long kick for the Colts.

Washington 29, New Orleans 24: After watching the Redskins sleep through four quarters of football in week one against the Giants, they were brought back to life in week 2, and pulled off an impressive win on the road. I didn't call this one, and after watching their week one laugh fest, I don't think many other people did either.

Chicago 20, Carolina 17: The Bear surprised me, and other people picking Carolina to win at home, especially after a very impressive victory last week against the Chargers. I guess the Bears are proving us all wrong, in that a team really can win without the presence of a quarterback or any sort of passing game.

Buffalo 20, Jacksonville 16: I called this one being close, with the Bills winning, and they pulled it off by 4 points, going to 2-0 to match their division leading New England Patriots.

San Fransisco 33, Seattle 30: I thought the Seahawks would pull this win out at home, but much like the rest of their division, on any given Sunday, any team can suck. Don't let the high score fool you, the San Fransisco defense is the only bright spot on either side and even they let up 30 points.

Tampa Bay 24, Atlanta 9: After an impressive win over the Lions in week one, I thought the Falcons would take care of the Bucs since they had Brian Griese starting for an injured Jeff Garcia. Well, Atlanta proved that they're still only one year removed from a mess of a season, and the Bucs smacked them around.

New England 19, NY Jets 10: I don't even want to get into this game, save for the fact that Eric Mangini proved he has always and unless anything changes, will always be scared of the Patriots (even without Tom Brady). The Jets were coached like they were still being led by Chad Pennington, proven with 3 straight runs with a first and goal inside the 5 yard line in the first half. Last time I checked Brett Favre was their quarterback. That's right, the same quarterback who leads NFL record books for red zone touchdown passes. Mangini and O-Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer need to take their heads out of their rear ends and smell the dirty NJ Turnpike air and get their act together. Needless to say I thought the Jets would win; they didn't.

Arizona 31, Miami 10: Arizona's potent offense came through as I suspected, and dropped the Dolphins to 0-2. The road to another 1-15 season is paved by games like this one.

Denver 39, San Diego 38: Well, with the most contraversial blown call of the season or recent memory, the Chargers slipped to 0-2, while the Broncos popped up on a bunch of radars going 2-0, on the heels of a gutsy call by coach Mike Shanahan to go for a 2 point conversion to win the game rather than an extra point to tie in the closing seconds. I am very afraid for my Jets going into San Diego for Monday Night Football next week against a Chargers team that is foaming at the mouth to pound the crap out of somebody.

Pittsburgh 10, Cleveland 6: Pittsburgh won this one 10-6 in the midst of what looked like a hurrican in Cleveland on Sunday night. Cleveland is 2-0 and far from the team that surprised a lot of people last year. The Steelers are emerging as an AFC powerhouse, now that the Colts, Patriots, and Chargers are obviously weakened.

Dallas41, Philadelphia 37: I thought Dallas would win this by 10 or 14 points, but the Eagles proved they are a force to be reckoned with in the NFC East again, coming off a rough season last year. Here's a quote from my predicitons: "This is probably the best Monday Night Football matchup the league could have planned for in week 2." Bam, there, I said it and my premonition delivered. This had to be one of the most offensively potent games in recent Monday Night history. To take a line from those Sunday NFL Ticket Direct TV commercials Jimmy Kimmel has been in, this is a game that had the defensive coordinators from both teams updating their resumes.

(Postponed) Baltimore @ Houston: Due to Hurrican Ike tearing through Texas this game has been rescheduled for week 8.

Record This Week: 9-6/ Overall Season So Far: 20-11

"My Week 2 NFL Picks...A League Without Tom"

Tennessee @ Cincinnati: Vince Young's mom asked the fans to stop booing him. Well, he won't have to hear anymore boos as he nurses his injured knee for the next few weeks. Kerry "Where's the nearest bar, and I'll have a double" Collins is starting, but I'll still go Titans on this one as the Bengals aren't much to worry about. Cincinnati is in shambles right now, and the NFL refuses to let Chad wear the "Ocho Cinco" on the back of his jersey until he recoups all of Reebok's expenses or they sell out of their now useless supply of "C. Johnson" jerseys. When Young comes back from his injury, he could still be sitting on the bench as the Titans aren't taking anymore chances by bringing in free agent Chris Simms to bolster their bench.

Green Bay @ Detroit: Detroit got embarrassed last Sunday by the Falcons, who were supposed to still be figuring out their post-Michael Vick plans going into this season. Matt Ryan and Michael Turner put their minds at ease, and Green Bay will go 2-0 by beating up on the Lions in Detroit. Aaron Rodgers is looking good, but there's almost nothing he can do this season to make the cheese heads forget about Brett Favre already (especially while he's still wearing a different shade of green every Sunday).

Oakland @ Kansas City: It's a battle between this game, and the San Fran/Seattle game for which one gets most painful game of the week to watch honors. I think the Raiders will win this one, but honestly who cares. Neither one of these league laughing stocks will make the playoffs, but at least one of them will get the goose egg out of their win column this weekend.

NY Giants @ St. Louis: The Giants impressed early last week, and the Rams impressed high school teams all around the country that they could probably play a closer game with the Eagles. The G-Men will go 2-0, and I will continue to let Mark Bulger sit on my fantasy team's bench. Why do I pick this guy every year?

Indianapolis @ Minnesota: This should be a pretty decent game, but I think the Colts will return to form and pull off the victory. This is definitely a weakened team with a still rusty Peyton Manning, but the Vikings can't ride on Adrian Peterson's back all year, especially not starting in week 2.

New Orleans @ Washington: Besides the Rams, Washington looked pretty pathetic last week. I think their coach's days are numbered if they continue down this path, but they should get better as the year goes on. It won't be against the Saints though. The Redskins won't be able to keep up with the Saints offense, even if Marques Colston in out for at least a month. Devery Henderson and David Patten should see more passes come their way as well as Jeremy Shockey, while he can stay healthy. Reggie Bush looked impressive last week; add all those weapons up, along with their improved defense, and the Redskins have too much working against them.

Chicago @ Carolina: Both these teams surprised everyone last week, the Bears by beating the Colts at home, and the Panthers by winning a last second stunner against the Chargers. I'm not completely sold on the Bears just yet, especially since Peyton Manning was still brushing the dust off and Joseph Addai went out early for the Colts. The Panthers without Steve Smith, on the other hand, beat the Chargers, pretty much at full strength, in a close game. At home, the Panthers should win this one.

Buffalo @ Jacksonville: Jacksonville stunk it up last week against their division rival Titans, who didn't even play that well to begin with. Buffalo laid a beating down on the Seahawks who had no receivers playing. This one should be pretty close, but I think the Bills will pull off the win in a close one.

San Fransisco @ Seattle: Both these didn't impress much in week one, but even if both finish at 7-9, they'll have a shot at the playoffs in their joke of a division that is the NFC West. The Seahawks are the more experienced team, so at home they should take care of business and beat the 49ers.

Atlanta @ Tampa Bay: Atlanta beat up on the Lions last week with impressive debuts by their rookie quarterback Matt Ryan and new starting running back Michael Turner. Jeff Garcia is out for Tampa Bay, and Brian Griese will get the start. Atlanta should take care of the Bucs, though Griese might show us he's still got some gas left in the tank by keeping it close.

New England @ NY Jets: This is probably the most anticipated matchup of the week for two reasons. One, everyone wants to see how Tom Brady's replacement, Matt Cassell will do in his first NFL start, and two, everyone wants to see if the Jets are serious about taking advantage of Brady's absence and going after the AFC East. I think Cassell will turn out ok this season in Bill Belichick's system, but it will take him another few weeks before he gets comfortable in the role. The Jets will most likely throw a lot at Cassell when the Patriots don't run the ball, and Favre will get better as he spends more time on the field this season. This one should be close, but I think the Jets will win by a touchdown.

Miami @ Arizona: Miami and new quarterback Chad Pennington showed promise last week, and I predict the team will get better as Chad gets more accustomed to their system, and Ricky Williams gets less accustomed to fumbling the ball on every other carry. Arizona at home with a potent offense should beat the Dolphins D that no longer has Zack Thomas or the Lord of the Dance, Jason Taylor. I'll go with the Cardinals.

San Diego @ Denver: Shawn Merriman is lights out for the season on that Tom Brady knee he thought he'd be able to rough it out on. The Broncos looked sharp on Monday night annihilating the Raiders, even without the services of Brandon Marshall. However, what all these sports heads are failing to realize as they rant and rave about how the Broncos are back, is that they played the Raiders. Last time I checked, their Warren Sapp resembling quarterback hasn't proven anything, and they've still got more holes than Roger Clemens's HGH story. Even without a hobbled Merriman, the Chargers will still threaten this year, and I just can't see them going 0-2 to a team that is all of a sudden an AFC front runner one week into the season. The Chargers should pull this one out, but it will be close.
Pittsburgh @ Cleveland: Cleveland is still trying to figure out if last season was a fluke, and if they blew it by not trading Derek Anderson when his stock was at its highest last year. While they continue their pondering, the reemerging Steelers should start the season 2-0 while fans in Cleveland get to boo the Browns 2 weeks in a row.

Philadelphia @ Dallas: This is probably the best Monday Night Football matchup the league could have planned for in week 2, as both these teams easily embarrassed their respective opponents in week one. Philadelphia looked sharp last week, but Dallas still has too many weapons the Eagles can't have all the answers for. That, along with this being the Cowboys home opener, means they should win this one. I would say by at least 10 or 14 points.

Baltimore @ Houston: In an odd move, there's another Monday night game, but this one is scheduled to be on CBS. Both these teams didn't show much promise last week, though the Ravens won their matchup. The Texans should be better, but I have been saying that the last two years, and they seem doomed for a franchise of mediocrity and unrealized potential. The Ravens should win this matchup, and probably would if they were playing at home, but I'm going to have to go Texans all the way on this one. It will be close, but the Texans should get their first win of the season.

My NFL Week One Results: Not as Bad As I Thought

Here are the results of my week one picks for the NFL season. Some crazy things happened: Brett Fave, pushing 39, threw a 56 yard bomb to Jerricho Cotchery, The Panthers upset the Panthers with no time left. Some disheartening things happened: Tom Brady's season ended in 7 and a half minutes, the Lions showed us they still have that "Same old Lions" mantra embedded into their heads. Either way, it is all attributed to one realization: It must be football season.

Today, on Michael Kay's afternoon show on 1050 AM, ESPN Radio, I made it on the air to prove to Mr. Kay that he's out of his mind not only for picking the Dolphins to beat the Jets last weekend, but his emphatic and matter-of-fact picking of the Pats over the Jets this Sunday. He thinks people are writing Matt Cassell off too early, but is forgetful of Cassell being with the team for five years, and displaying a losing preseason showing in place of Brady. He also was quick to show disdain for the Jets performance against the Dolphins, when both teams had quarterbacks starting who have been with each team for less than a month. The Pats O-line is going to face similar pressure (maybe not as skillful and intense) that they did in the Super Bowl, and this time with a quarterback far less skilled, poised, and seasoned as Tom Brady. With that will be less accurate throws to Randy Moss and Wes Welker, and more running behind the previously mentioned O-line. Mike took notice of my good point on Randy Moss historically giving up in the face of lost seasons in the past, which seems like it would especially effect a young QB desperately needing everything from the players around him.

Washington @ NY Giants: I started off the season with an accurate and nicely explained pick. The Giants beat the horrendous looking Redskins on Thursday night in a game that should have done us all a favor and just ended at halftime. I quote my prediction, "The defending champions have a lot to prove in their own eyes. They just gave Plaxico Burress a hefty new deal and have a chip on their shoulder for being labeled a fluke champion last season. Jason Taylor will be worried more about getting his tango moves right on the nationally televised game instead of going after the quarterback. Eli Manning has gotten a bad rap the last couple seasons, but I think Brett Favre going to the Jets took some media attention away from him, and will ultimately help him continue to get better. After all, he is a Super Bowl MVP and his last name is Manning. His interceptions still wouldn't tempt me to draft him to my fantasy team though. The Giants should win this game, and I think will win 9 or 10 total this year and get another Wild Card Playoff spot."

Jason "I left my football shoes in my tap dancing shoes bag, and my tap dancing shoes in my football bag" Taylor was non-existent, Jason Campbell looked so lost he belonged on the side of a milk carton, and if this is a sign of things to come from coach Jim Zorn, I predict he will be the first coaching casualty of the '08 season. Eli came out with an impressive first drive, but the Giants put it into cruise control for the most part after that, as it became the Brandon "I leave footprints on Laron Landry's face and turf in his mouth" Jacobs show.

Detroit @ Atlanta: Here's one that left me scratching my head: "Atlanta has a rookie quarterback, and not enough weapons on either side of the ball to beat an exciting passing offense in the Lions." Yup, I'm an idiot. Matt Ryan's first NFL pass was a 60+ yard TD pass, and new starting running back Michael Turner ran for over 200 yards and a couple scores. Yes, the Lions have an M.I.A. defense, and they're said to be going to the run game more this year (something they haven't done since the days of Barry Sanders), but this was still an impressive win for the other laughing stock of the league last season next to the one win Dolphins.

Seattle @ Buffalo: I'm leaving my entire entry for this prediction right here: "Buffalo is a much better team than everyone thinks, and has one of the best up and coming backs in Marshawn Lynch. I think the Bills will upset the Seahawks who are used to playing division 2 college level teams like the 49ers and Rams. A 7-9 team has a shot at the playoffs in the NFC West; that makes me want to spew." I couldn't have nailed this one more on the head as the Bills opened up the season by embarrassing the Seahawks who were without any decent receivers. They still play in the miserable NFC West, and I'm not using this game as a prediction on the Bills season. They should have won this game, and they did, by a lot. Now, we'll see if they can keep it going with a seemingly light schedule they share with the other AFC East'ers The Pats, Jets, and Dolphins.

Jacksonville @ Tennessee: I quote my own stupidity: "The Jags are too good to go into Tennessee and let a mediocre team upset them in the opening game." Even with Vince Young hurt, the Titans, who I thought were an inferior team showed that within your division anything can happen. Tennessee won at home and added questions to a team that is supposed to be a front runner in the AFC this year.

NY Jets @ Miami: I said this one might be close, with the Jets getting the win, and I was spot on. Chad "My 2 minute drill always ends with a beach ball in the wind throw that gets intercepted" Pennington threw up a pick in the end zone with less than 20 seconds left in the game. Brett Favre threw 2 spectacular touchdown passes, and we're sure to see some more of those as the season goes on. It looks like he's enjoying throwing the ball Jerricho Cotchery's way, and with more practice and an improved game plan against the Patriots, the season's first big test comes this weekend.

Kansas City @ New England: The biggest story of the weekend, and I'll open it with this quote from my predictions last week: "Tom Brady has been M.I.A. this preseason, but Shirley Temple could be at quarterback for the Patriots and they'd still win this game." Well, I guess you can call Matt Cassell "Shirley Temple," because when Tom Brady went down early with a season ending knee injury, he came in and got the win. Barely; and against a horrible Chiefs team. I equate Cassell's situation right now to that of Ferris, Cameron, and Sloan taking out Cameron's dad's vintage Ferrari in "Ferris Bueller's Day Off." You could call Cameron's Dad Tom Brady, or perhaps Bill Belichick (bear with me here) and the car is the Patriots dynasty of the past decade. Will the car end up dismantled at the bottom of a pile of trees in the woods behind Cameron's house (in this case, I hope so), or will they turn the odometer back and get the car back like they never even drove it. Tom Brady and especially Bill Belichick are hoping for the latter, but that's not how it went down in the movie, and I don't think it will happen that way here either.

The AFC East race will certainly be interesting now, as the Jets and a very impressive Buffalo Bills team should be in a heated battle for the top spot throughout this season. I don't think the Patriots will have a horrendous season, but I do think they will be a vulnerable team, especially without 40+ points to support their aged and limited defense. This along with the offensive line that provided no protection for Tom Brady in the Super Bowl loss, will create challenges for a quarterback who hasn't started a game since high school in 1999. I like the Bills of the Jets to take the division, because once the Pats lose one or two in a row, Randy Moss won't play 100% like he always has in the past, and Wes Welker is good, but he's not a #1 receiver. Lawrence Maroney is sure to get more carries, but again, this goes back to the exposed Pats O-line.

Tampa Bay @ New Orleans: The Saints got the win at home, as I suspected, and Drew Brees put up Madden-like numbers throwing for nearly 350 yards. Reggie Bush had a good game as well, and Jeff Garcia threw a pick late in the game when they had a chance to stay in it.

St. Louis @ Philadelphia: I guess it could have been worse for me, I originally contemplated going with the Rams as my upset of the week. The Eagles, as I predicted, put the lopsided shellacking of the weekend down on Nelly's hometown team this weekend, and made me actually feel bad for the fellas. It really made me feel bad for the fact that Mark Bulger is on my bench in fantasy again this year (I never learn).

**Upset of the Week**
Houston @ Pittsburgh: My upset pick of the week couldn't have been more wrong. The Steelers made everyone who passed on Willie "Don't call me Spiderman because my first name isn't Peter" Parker in fantasy football look foolish. Big Ben also put up some good numbers, and with the Brady Bunch in New England now up in the air without their QB, as well as the shaky play from the Chargers and Colts, the Steelers have moved up a lot of lists in power rankings. With their division's next best holdover from last season getting embarrassed at home by the Cowboys, it looks like the Steelers are the favorites to win the AFC North and possibly go deep into the playoffs.

Cincinnati @ Baltimore: I predicted the Ravens to squeak this one out and they got the W. However, I didn't expect the Bengals to be this bad. If they don't shape up, it's going to be a long season for the Ocho Cinco elite.

Carolina @ San Diego: This might have been the game of the week, and I had it all wrong, picking the obviously better San Diego team, who proved the saying that on any given Sunday any team can win. Even without Steve Smith, the Panthers pulled off probably the biggest upset of the week. Smith was suspended for sucker punching a teammate during training camp, and good guy coach John Fox proved that good prevails and no one is above the team as his Panthers squeaked out a victory with a Jake Delhomme TD pass with no time left on the clock. To add insult to injury, it only took this game for Shawn "I'm above the team, got caught with 'roids, and played on a shotty knee that is now mush" Merriman to further injure himself. He's now on injured reserve, will have his surgery, and miss the rest of the season. Way to go Shawn; if the Chargers don't make a playoff run, I'm sure you'll be sitting on your couch with a brace on your leg and screws in your knee, laughing that they couldn't do it without you. Jackass.

Arizona @ San Fransisco: No surprisingly, the 49ers lost at home, as I suspected against a 99 year old Kurt Warner, and an overall superior Cardinals team. I'm sure that's a sentence that will be repeated several times this season.

Dallas @ Cleveland: This game wasn't even close, as my prediction of a Cowboys victory on the road came true. Cleveland looked like they'll have a rocky road ahead of them, though the Cowboys offense can do that to you.

Chicago @ Indianapolis: With Joseph Addai going out early with a head injury (which also injured one of my fantasy teams) the Colts were upset by Chicago in the opening game at their new stadium, named Lucas Oil Field, or something like that. I think the Colts lost the game based on this horrendous name for their new home.

Minnesota @ Green Bay: I picked Green Bay, and Mr. Rodgers did not make me look like a fool. I still think Adrian Peterson isn't going to have the same year he did last season, and with how the Bears upset the Colts, this division could go back and forth all season long.

Denver @ Oakland: On Monday night I was 2 for 2; I picked the Broncos, and they prevailed, going into Oakland to lay an old fashioned beatdown on the Raiders. The Raiders and their quasi-rotund number one draft pick QB of last year are not showin much signs of improvement. Their defense should do better as the season goes on, so hopefully JaMarcus Russell and rookie sensation Darren McFadden can give the crazy Raider fans something to cheer about other than Al Davis's liver spots and latest set of false teeth.

Record for picks this week: 11-5.

In seeing all the crazy things that happened this past weekend, my picks, when looking at my overall numbers, really weren't that bad. I guess, it was my emphatic picking of the games I got wrong that created a false illusion that my picks were train wrecked. Therefore, picking 11 out of 16 games correctly, I will keep bringing it for the 2008 season.

How Will Belichick Win Without his Golden Boy???

My breakdown of my Week One NFL picks (which were as inconsistent as wardrobe changes at an Elton John concert in Vegas) will be coming later on this evening, but for now, here's a great(and I mean great) take on the harsh reality the New England Patriots now face without their franchise, quarterback Tom Brady, for the rest of the 2008 season. Jeffri Chadiha of ESPN.com makes a substantial and tangible argument in the case of Patriots coach Bill Belichick: Without Tom Brady as his quarterback, Belichick historically, is a loser (cue my laughing out loud like a crazed buffoon).
Chadiha analyzes Belichick's coaching record with the Cleveland Browns and the Patriots before Mr. MVP came along. 42-58. That's right; his horrendous tenure in Cleveland, followed by a 5-10 first season with the Patriots in 2000, and the starting of the 2001 season at 0-2. Then, enter Tom Brady, part savior, part magician, and now, depending on how the season goes, Belichick might end up looking like the great and powerful Oz when Toto gnawed at his curtain to reveal a weak, sad, and pitiful little man. The Patriots won the Super Bowl in 2001 with Tom Brady and the same team that went 0-2 before he started running the ship. Now, we will see how skilled Belichick is since his golden boy is done for the season. The weakened Patriots O-line, and weathered, aged defense won't have 40+ points per game to rely on when Matt Cassell is screaming for the refs to "Blow the whistle!" like Papke, the backup quarterback in "Necessary Roughness."

Cheers to Jeffri for saying what everyone else is afraid to say; that it is possible that while Belichick is no doubt a legendary coach, he hasn't been tested without his star quarterback in the post-Super Bowl phase of his career. If Belichick fails miserably, it will be redemption for him abandoning the Jets when Bill Parcells handpicked him to be his successor in 1999. If he doesn't, it is what all the sports pundits will attribute to his genius game planning and talent management. I still think 18-1 is a much more stunning and widely known number than 42-58, regardless of how this turns out.

To check out Jeffri Chadiha's no holds barred column that gets my vote for the "what everyone is thinking, but no one has the brass tactics to say" article of the month, click here:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=chadiha_jeffri&id=3576284

If this guy is accurate, he'll probably end up taking Peter King's Monday Morning Quarterback column by season's end.

"Johnny Be's Week One Football Picks"

Washington @ NY Giants: The defending champions have a lot to prove in their own eyes. They just gave Plaxico Burress a hefty new deal and have a chip on their shoulder for being labeled a fluke champion last season. Jason Taylor will be worried more about getting his tango moves right on the nationally televised game instead of going after the quarterback. Eli Manning has gotten a bad rap the last couple seasons, but I think Brett Favre going to the Jets took some media attention away from him, and will ultimately help him continue to get better. After all, he is a Super Bowl MVP and his last name is Manning. His interceptions still wouldn't tempt me to draft him to my fantasy team though. The Giants should win this game, and I think will win 9 or 10 total this year and get another Wild Card Playoff spot.

Detroit @ Atlanta: Detroit will beat the team that once boasted a troubled quarterback who is now public enemy number one to dog lovers everywhere. Atlanta has a rookie quarterback, and not enough weapons on either side of the ball to beat an exciting passing offense in the Lions.

Seattle @ Buffalo: Buffalo is a much better team than everyone thinks, and has one of the best up and coming backs in Marshawn Lynch. I think the Bills will upset the Seahawks who are used to playing division 2 college level teams like the 49ers and Rams. A 7-9 team has a shot at the playoffs in the NFC West; that makes me want to spew.

Jacksonville @ Tennessee: A lot of the experts are expecting the Jaguars to do a lot this season, and rightfully so. They've got all their returning weapons from last season, which was overshadowed by an early playoff exit and a team trying (unsuccessfully) for perfection. The Jags are too good to go into Tennessee and let a mediocre team upset them in the opening game.

NY Jets @ Miami: This game might, might be close, but the Jets will win. Yes, Chad Pennington knows the Jets' offensive and defensive schemes, but the Jets also know Chad's T-rex arm. Therefore, the former team edge's go out the window, and the Jets should dominate based on overall talent on both sides of the ball, and the questionable running game in Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown, which won't pan out until week 4 or 5.

Kansas City @ New England: Tom Brady has been M.I.A. this preseason, but Shirly Temple could be at quarterback for the Patriots and they'd still win this game. The Chiefs still don't have a quarterback and let the one of their only stars, Jared Allen, go to the Vikings. Larry Johnson is going to have another bad season, and I'm just glad I wasn't dumb enough to draft him to my fantasy team because last year was not a fluke.

Tampa Bay @ New Orleans: Tampa Bay will be a contender in an open division this year, but the New Orleans Saints will return to the same form they rolled with in the 2006 season. They had plenty of offensive weapons already, and Jeremy Shockey will be effective (until he suffers another inevitable injury like he does every season) in this first season alongside Reggie Bush, Marques Colston, and a recuperated Deuce McCallister (who had season ending knee surgery last year).

St. Louis @ Philadelphia: I think the Eagles will definitely have a better season than they did last year, but some of these sportswriters around the country are nuts in predicting them to make the Super Bowl. If memory serves correctly, Assante Samuel is the same guy who blew it for the Patriots in the Super Bowl (along with their offensive line), and the combination of young linebackers they're relying on, and still having zero receivers will be their downfall. The Eagles will still beat the Rams who still need some reps to return to form with a hobbled Torry Holt, and unproven Stephen Jackson who bowed out early due to injury last year.

**Upset of the Week**

Houston @ Pittsburgh: While Pittsburgh will be expected to make easy business of the nonthreatening Texans, this is my upset pick of the week. I think the Texans will surprise a lot of people this year, starting with this game against the Steelers. The Steelers are not the same team that won the Super Bowl a couple years ago, and the Texans are not the same team that has been unremarkable the last couple of years. I see the Texans winning about 8 or 9 games this year, and same for the Steelers. Andre Johnson will have a couple receiving touchdowns, and Mario Williams will put Big Ben on the turf a few times.

Cincinnati @ Baltimore: Rookie Joe Flacco will start for the Ravens, but their defense is what wins them games. Cincinnati will be playing with a recovering Chad "Ocho Cinco" Johnson, who will be roughed up by the physical Ravens secondary. T.J. Houshmandzadeh will be double covered and new tight end Ben Utecht might make a splash, but it won't be enough to beat a ruthless Ravens defense at home. The game will be close, but I think the Ravens will squeak this one out by 3 points or so. Not that it matters, since both these teams will be lucky to have 6 or 7 wins at the end of the season.

Carolina @ San Diego: Rookie running back Jonathan Stewart (not the host of the "Daily Show") is supposed to make some noise this season, but without their biggest offensive weapon Steve Smith, the Panthers are likely to get embarrassed in this game. If the Chargers don't win this game by at least 14 points, I'd be very surprised.

Arizona @ San Fransisco: The Cardinals should be a better team with Kurt Warner at quarterback for the whole season than they would be with Matt "Had great talent around him in college, but can't get it done on his own in the bigs" Leinart. San Fransisco has J.T. O'Sullivan at quarterback...J.T. O' who??? Exactly. Frank Gore, if he can stay healthy, should flourish again if he can get some passes out of the backfield in new Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz's system. Isaac Bruce reuniting with his old coach from the Rams should also make some noise. The 49ers defense should be good again this year, but with Fitzgerald, Boldin, the Edge, and Warner calling the plays, the Cardinals should win this close one.

Dallas @ Cleveland: On paper, Dallas is the best team in the NFC right now; whether Tony Romo continues to rack up numbers in the loss column during the playoffs is yet to be determined. Cleveland however, won't stand a chance against the Cowboys who have something to prove this year, starting with this game on the road. The departure of Julius for another Jones, rookie Felix, should help Marion Barber take center stage as the starting running back; a job he has undoubtedly earned over the past couple seasons.

Chicago @ Indianapolis: In the first Sunday night game of the year, America will still realize that the Bears don't have a quarterback. The Bears could literally go out on the field without a quarterback, snap the ball, and see what happens, and they'd still have as much of a chance as they do right now. Their defense can only get them so far, and a horrible quarterback will lose at least 2 or 3 games single-handedly for them. Even though Peyton Manning has been out of action during the preseason, Joseph Addai will take center stage in this victory for this AFC powerhouse of the past few years.

Minnessota @ Green Bay: In the first game of this Monday Night Football double header, this might be the best match up of the week if all goes according to plan. Aaron Rodgers is making his Favre-replacing debut against an improved, and already good Vikings team at Lambeau field. If Rodgers can stay healthy, then the Packers should be at least a 10 or 11 win team this year. However in the few appearances he had last season, while he looked sharp, he got injured rather quickly. I don't think Adrian Peterson will have as stellar of a season as he did last year, especially since his blocking Pro Bowl fullback Tony Richardson left for the Jets. An unproven Tavaris Jackson will have more pressure on him, but the defense should also guide the Vikings to a worthy battle of these two division rivals who will likely claw at each other for the division title all season. Either way, I think Rodgers has a lot to prove, and knows it, and will lead the Packers to their first win of the season at home.

Denver @ Oakland: Everyone is itching to see the Raiders and their first round explosive draft pick Darren McFadden hit the field this season in the second of two Monday Night Football openers. Along with former number one pick (and current Twinkie eating champion) the hefty JaMarcus Russel, the Raiders might improve this year. They've beefed up their defense as well with the addition of cornerback DeAngelo Hall, but still don't have an offensive line. This could be a problem for their horizontally expanding quarterback, and rookie running back. Denver is the more seasoned team, though they probably won't have a good season, but they should win this one by a touchdown.

Kevin Arnold Loved the Jets, And So Should You. Broadway Brett: El Capitan.

Remember "The Wonder Years," one of the greatest television dramas in history? What a great show (that I'm still waiting for on DVD), with a great main character, Kevin Arnold, who famously championed for Winnie Cooper's affections while donning a vintage Jets jacket at the height of the Broadway Joe era. Kevin's older brother Wayne is still one of the most hated characters in TV history, one that could make you want to put your fist through some drywall.

Anywho, here's a Broadway Brett update on the same day that the NFL's season kicks off with the Giants-Redskins game tonight. (Editor's Note: I've got Clinton Portis and Chris Cooley going on both of my fantasy teams tonight)

Yesterday it was announced that Brett Favre and Alan Faneca have been voted the offensive captains of the New York Jets for the upcoming season. While I would have liked to see wide receiver Laveranues Coles or maybe tight end Chris Baker as captains, I don't disagree with Brett being one, since he is expected to be the guy who leads this team all season. Coles and Baker lost some pull though when they got into contract disputes/holdouts with management in the off season. Faneca, while also being added to the team only a few months back still has pull over Jerricho Cotchery and Leon Washington, who are still a bit young to be looked at as captain material. Thomas Jones has only been there for one (lackluster) season at running back, and still has much to prove in the fans' and team's eyes, so that's not much of a surprise.
That "C" stitched on his jersey now won't make Brett Favre any better or worse; but same goes for Tom Brady's "minor" (stress fracture) foot injury. Here's my prediction on this ongoing rivalry between the AFC East opponents who meet for the first of 2 regular season match ups next week. The Pats and Jets will split their two games this year; I think the Jets have a shot winning it in week 2 since the Pats haven't (as far as we know) been illegally videotaping Favre on the Jets, and Brady might still be rusty. He will especially have trouble when Calvin Pace tries to rip his head off along with the rest of the revamped Jets defensive unit. Tom Brady, as Walter Sobchak (played by John Goodman) in "The Big Lebowski" best put it, is "entering a world of pain," this season. (See Walter below.)
The Jets will win 10 or 11 games (12 if a couple of the close ones fall their way) and get a Wild Card playoff spot since they don't play in the NFC West where a .500 team can not only make the playoffs, but win their division. The Pats will win at least 13 or 14, but their geriatric defense, and questionable O-line is going to be winded toward the end of the season like they were in last year's Super Bowl. That is why I predict the Patriots will lose somewhere between the first round and up to or including the AFC Championship, either to the Colts (if Peyton Manning stays healthy), Jaguars (another solid D that has a great season under their belt), the Chargers (if they can stay dominant without Shawn Merriman, because he'll take a career and/or season ending injury somewhere by mid-season with the bum knee he's adamant about playing on), or shall I say the J-E-T-S Jets?

A year or two ago I'd be labeled "looney tunes" for such a prediction. However, this is the first season in a long time any Jets fan can firmly say or believe that they have a legitimate shot to win any game they're in on any given Sunday. The Patriots are probably the most feared team in the NFL this season, and even they have questions coming into this year after going 0-4 without Tom and his bum foot throughout the preseason.
(Editor's Note: This is one of the best pictures of Tom Brady I have ever seen.)
Granted losing the biggest game in franchise history to end their season will weigh on the Patriots and give them extra tenacity this year, but on paper and on the field they are a weaker and more vulnerable team than they were last year. This is especially evident when one thinks about how they will need to have more left in their tank at the end of the season for a lengthy playoff run. Sure, Brett Favre is going to be 39 in a month or two, but the fresh life the Jets have breathed into their offensive line, backfield, and defense are more changes than the Patriots have made. If the same team that got pounded by the Giants defense (that boasted only one Pro Bowler) in the Super Bowl shows up this season, other equal or better defenses will be knocking the hobbled quarterback down even more this season.

Interesting enough, ESPN correspondent and Boston (yuck) fan Bill Simmons, has a somewhat similar view on the Pats and Jets. While he sees the Pats being questionable, he still has them making the AFC Championship, and losing to the Jaguars who he has for his Super Bowl pick. The Jets are his annual sleeper pick, though he has them losing their first two games on their way to a surprising 11-5 season. The record prediction sounds about right, but I see them winning at least one of their first two games, if not both. The third game against the Chargers is a toss up depending on whether Merriman is on the IR list by then or how much Phillip Rivers cries like Halle Berry accepting her Academy Award during the game.

You can read all of Bill Simmons's season predictions here on ESPN's website. Although I despise Boston sports teams, I like where his head is at. But I will say I think his view on the Giants is a bit harsh and skewed to the fact that they ruined his team's shot at perfection in the Super Bowl. While I think the Giants are going to have a tougher time this year with their losses on defense (Osi's knee surgery, Strahan's retirement, Mitchell's bouncing), I think Eli Manning will have a better and more consistent regular season than he has previously. They're definitely at least a 8 or 9 win team, but I still think the New York story of the year will be the Jets This is also due to the fact that the Yankees are horrendous this season, and the Mets are likely to come up shorthanded at the end of the season or in the playoffs, the ongoing trainwreck that is the Knicks organization, and the Rangers who have lost Sean Avery, JaomirJagr, and will probably end up at about the same spot they did in last season's playoffs.

Here are Simmons's thoughts:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/080904

"Opening Night for Broadway Brett"

In my debauchery-filled weekend of sun, fun, and beer, I sadly missed the preseason debut of Broadway Brett Favre and the Jets on Saturday night against the Washington Redskins. Although the Jets lost, Brett put on a great first performance considering he joined the team less than 2 weeks ago. The future Hall of Famer went an impressive 5 for 6 passing, for a total of 48 yards, including a four yard touchdown pass to rookie tight end Dustin Keller. Any doubts Favre had were removed when he stated after the game that, "I knew I had made the right decision when I was on the field tonight." Ah, Brett Favre, he had me at hello.

Speaking of cheesy lines from a Tom Cruise film, Mr. Scientology himself was on hand at the game, making a rare New Jersey appearance, though he's originally from Glen Ridge. Cruise happens to be very close friends with Redskins owner Dan Snyder, who I'm guessing was his host for the game. This picture from ESPN.com showed Tom at the game actually being friendly with the fans, not like that time he almost engaged in fisticuffs with Matt Lauer on the Today show (2nd picture) a couple years back.

I think Favre's first real test will be when the Jets host the Giants this Saturday night. It will be the first time Favre is playing against the defending Super Bowl champions since throwing what would end up being the game winning interception in the NFC Championship Game last season. Perhaps this was Favre's plan all through the offseason: fake retirement, then get traded to the Jets and steal away any memory the New York media has of the Giants Super Bowl victory by robbing the headlines until the season starts. This should make for a good match up, and will most likely be Favre's last action until the season opener in Miami since most teams keep their starters on the bench for the fourth week of preseason games.

Another football event worth noting that took place this weekend was another quarterback making a debut with a new team: Chad Pennington and the Miami Dolphins who faced off against the Jacksonville Jaguars, also on Saturday night.
I wish Chad and the 'Phins all the best this year (so long as they don't get in the Jets way for the 2 games they'll play) as I'll always be a fan of his, and the image of him in a Dolphins uniform was just as jarring as Favre wearing the Jets shade of green. The Dolphins won their game 19-14 while Pennington also put up rather impressive numbers for a guy who's been with the team for about 10 days. Chad went 5 for 6 passing with 55 yards, no touchdowns. Ironic that these numbers were nearly identical to Favre's, save for the touchdown. We'll just have to see if they stay as even keeled for their season opener in Miami on September 7th.

The Jet Brett Favre era took the field for the first time this weekend, and Jets fans will be on the edge of their seats in anticipation of what he has in store for the rest of the season.

It's 5 Months Away, but the Super Bowl Halftime Performer Will Be...

BRUUUUUUUUUUUUCE!!!

The the football season hasn't even started yet, but it's being reported that Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will be the halftime performers at this year's Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa Bay, Florida. So there you have it, you have 5 months to set your TiVo and not miss a minute when you have to make a mad dash to the bathroom because your sister-in-law's guacamole was made with expired sour cream and mushy avocados.

Honestly, once I read this at Variety's website, I'm surprised it hasn't happened yet. Looking back, having the reunited E Street Band play at the Super Bowl XXXVI in 2002 would have been more fitting than U2 in their tribute to 9/11. However, it still doesn't change the fact of that being one of the most powerful, resonating halftime shows in the Big Game's history.

So, why the change of heart for the E Street Band? Perhaps they are true to their tradition of an All-American rock band and want to give the Jets and their new (old) All-American quarterback, Broadway Brett Favre some extra motivation to make that trip to Tampa Bay in January. It may take a Thunder Road to get there, and Favre's Glory Days may be behind him, but if the Jets play their opponents with a tenacity like they're Held Up Without a Gun, then maybe Brett and the Jets will go all Murder Incorporated on the competition this season.

If that's the case then they would truly prove that they are Born to Run with the Boss to Florida. Hell, they could even take the same flight back to the swamps of Jersey and have a victory show at the stadium when their fans greet them on the homecoming.

The NFL and Springsteen's people have been mum on the subject, so hopefully in the coming weeks we will know for sure if this match made on Exit 16W of the New Jersey Turnpike is in fact true. If so, it's a teaming that is truly Born in the USA.

More Jet Favre News...

The people at EA Sports waste no time...Here's an image of what newly acquired quarterback Brett Favre will look like in Madden '09. And I must say, it looks damn good! Many in the press as well as fans are already concerned with the big stage Favre will be landing on in the hot skillet that is the New York media. However, these Debbie Downers should remember a few things:

1. The Jets play in New Jersey, and have since the mid 1970's. They will continue to play in Jersey for many years to come when their new stadium (with the Giants) opens at the start of next season.

2. The Jets were 4-12 last season. That said, giving up next to nothing for him and having a 5-11 season would be an improvement in the New York media's mind.

3. The last time a New York starting quarterback wore number 4 his name was: Glen Foley.

4. Bill Belichick is already trying to cheat his way into a strategy to beat the Legend, and I'm sure he lost some sleep over this last night. His misery is our happiness.

5. Brett Favre is no stranger to the media, and historically has dealt with media scrutiny quite well. His turn as the character, Brett Favre in 1998's box office smash "There's Something About Mary" shows his poise and composure under the scrutiny of the media circus that is a movie set. Brett also played a janitor alongside Mike Holmgren in the 1996 film "Reggie's Prayer" about a retired pro football player who befriends a troubled student on the high school football team he coaches.
Click here to see Brett show off his acting chops: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjDC6P16hSg

In my intrigue of how fast Wikipedia works amid breaking pop culture related news, I did a search on Brett Favre; here's the opening paragraph as of this morning:

"Brett Lorenzo Favre (born on October 10, 1969, in Gulfport, Mississippi) is an American football quarterback for the New York Jets of the National Football League. He was the starting quarterback for the Green Bay Packers from 1992 to 2007."

Damn, Wikipedia is faster than TJ Houshmandz-whachamacallhim. Also, I didn't know his middle name was Lorenzo. You know who else was named Lorenzo don't you? That's right, the father in "A Bronx Tale" played by Robert DeNiro. He epitomized perseverance and that "stick to your guns" mentality that Brett Favre personifies more than anyone else in the NFL today.

Coincidence, I think not. This is a case of the legendary Lorenzos. And don't adjust your computer monitor; yes, I just connected Brett Favre's comeback to "A Bronx Tale"

BROADWAY BRETT: Brett Favre, Quarterback...for the NEW YORK JETS.

As I write this I am in a "Glass case of emotion" as San Diego's classiest anchorman Ron Burgundy best put it. I was about ready to get to bed when on Sportscenter, a beacon of light flew onto the screen: "BREAKING NEWS: Brett Favre traded to Jets." Wow. As a Jets fan, I have to say this has up to this point been one of the most active offseasons I've ever seen out of the Gang Green, and this move definitely solidifies it as the craziest offseason I've witnessed for the Jets in my entire life. They've now gone out and gotten a Super Bowl Champion, 3 time MVP, first ballot Hall of Famer to lead their team, and for the first time in a very long time, the Jets have a bonafide quarterback.

I wasn't really sure how I felt about this move since I never thought there was any sort of shot that this would actually happen. My thinking was the Jets were merely a pawn to drive up his trade value to other teams since I didn't think he really wanted to play for them. Now that it seems to have actually happened, I am excited, anxious, and almost can't believe it. I can't wait to see someone finally lead the Jets the way Chad Pennington didn't have the arm for, and the way Kellen Clemens didn't have a full chance at yet. As much of a soft spot I have for Chad and his leadership, multiple comebacks, and heart, he was never the quarterback who could lead the Jets past a 2nd or 3rd round in the playoffs. Kellen Clemens has the potential to be that quarterback for the Jets in the future, and the possibility of him now being able to be mentored by one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history over one or two seasons would ultimately make Clemens a better player.

I am in a mixed state of emotions right now as this breaking news has caught me somewhat off guard. However, it puts a smile on my face knowing that the Jets have brought themselves onto a level playing field with the behemoth New England Patriots (18-1). The fact that Bill Belichick is already losing sleep in his dungeon over this and wondering how he's going to gameplan against Favre now that he can't cheat anymore is reason enough for this to bring a smile to my face.

Not sure how incoherent my rambling has been, but it's late and the Jets just acquired one of the greatest living quarterbacks on earth. Here's to hoping he doesn't have another change of heart and stay retired.

J-E-T-S, BRETT, BRETT, BRETT!!!

If he wants to get on the fans' good side, he should go vintage and grow the Namath 'stache.

UPDATE:
As I finish writing this at approximately 1:00AM Eastern Time, the New York Jets official website is already advertising Brett Favre Jets jerseys for sale. Holding onto all those left over old Glenn Foley #4 jerseys must have paid off as they only had to replace 3 letters.