NFL Week 8 Observations

I'm sorry I haven't posted anything for a few days. My wife and I decided to take the kids on a little vacation. But, I did make it back in time today to catch most of the NFL action.

So, here are a few of my thoughts and observations from week 8 in the NFL.

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1) The New England Patriots hung 52 points on the Washington Redskins defense which is still ranked 5th in the NFL in total defense even after their recent shellacking. The Redskins defense isn't that bad. The Patriots offense is that good.

2) OK. It's time for me to admit that I am wrong occasionally. Regular readers of this blog might remember that I stated earlier in the season that I thought Charlie Johnson should be starting at left tackle for the Colts. Well, I have now seen Charlie in 2 consecutive games at left tackle for the Colts and I can now say the Colts offense isn't near as effective with Charlie in there. I am truly hoping that Tony Ugoh is healthy for next week's match-up between the Colts and the Patriots.

3) Speaking of the Colts/Patriots match-up next week, I think the Colts better hope they get healthy before next week. Starters Tony Ugoh (LT), Marvin Harrison (WR), and Freddie Keiaho (LB) all missed today's game against the Panthers. The Colts will need a healthy roster to have any chance against the Pats.

4) I have a question for all the Patriot haters out there. Do you hate the New England Patriots team or do you actually just hate the New England Patriot fans? I am a Colts fan and I have to say that the only player for the Patriots that I really dislike is Rodney Harrison. But, I have never met a Patriot fan that liked or had any respect for.

5) I can't believe I'm actually going to say this, but I am beginning to think that Cleveland might actually have a chance to win 8 games this season. I don't think that will be enough to make the playoffs but it will be an improvement.

6) Look at the Steelers' schedule. They will probably be 10-2 when they play New England in week 14. There could be some playoff ramifications.

7) The Titans and Jaguars just keep chugging along beneath the radar. There is a good chance they will be the 2 AFC Wild Card teams.

8) The Rams still suck. But, they have a bye week next and then they play 4 games in a row where they actually have a decent chance of winning; at New Orleans, at San Francisco, Seattle at home, and then Atlanta at home.

9) I was starting to think the Giants might be getting better and then they played like crap against a winless Dolphins team today.

10) The Vikings should have drafted Brady Quinn.

11) I think we will find out something about the Packers and the Broncos tomorrow night.