IntenseOperator

Quote Originally Posted by iConsciousness:

Raiders (-1) @ SaintsI'm not sure you watch this game even if it was the only game playing this week. But it's a game listed in every sportsbook and, as such, I must present a brief write-up for it to honor the sanctity of the CD Newsletter. The first thing I'd like to bring up is the record for both clubs. The Raiders are dwelling at the bottom of their division, and are tied with the worst record in the AFC, along with the Jags, Titans, and Browns, as they sit at 3-12. They have only won 1 more game at home, which as of late hasn't been much of a homefield advantage for the Raiders. On the flip side, the Saints are sporting a 5-10 record and will probably lament over not being able to take advantage of such a weak division. (Both the Falcons and Buccs are atop the NFC South with a 8-7 record.) In a game where it's difficult to find angles, one could point to the fact that both teams will be searching for a franchise QB. Reports out of N'awlins is that it doesn't seem like the the Saints will be moving on from Carr next year. Perhaps the front office can point back to the injuries that have plagued the team and how Carr was able to lead the Saints past the Lions earlier in the season. He has 2 more years left on his contract and the Saints (again) are well over the cap next year. It would make sense to set the foundation for life after Carr -- whether it be a true franchise QB to sit and learn behind him, or someone to outright replace him next year. I suspect whomever the Saints end up hiring as HC next year will have a major say in this. (If not, I wouldn't want to work for a franchise with an all too controlling FO.) Speaking of Carr, the Saints will be facing his former team. This would've been the first game Carr would face against his old team had he been able to be healthy for it. Instead he'll just do the usual exchange of pleasantries with former teammates before and after the game. A major incentive ("the revenge angle") squandered when looking for betting angles! Antonio Pierce is probably not long for this job. Maxx Crosby has hinted he wants out. Mark Davis now has allowed for Tom Brady's input regarding moves. (To what extent, I don't know -- but I say let him provide talent evaluation for drafts and personnel recommendations.) This is probably why Pierce is playing to win. He's going to be playing for his next job as some type of coordinator or assistant coach. You could say the same for Darren Rizzi, the interim head coach of the Saints. He was a ST coordinator and assistant head coach prior to being elevated to interim manager. He'll either be playing to retain his previous titles or look to strengthen his resume for whichever other team decides to hire him.Why am I writing all this background stuff? Well, because what else do you write about when a 3-12 team faces a 5-10 team, with the head coaches and quarterbacks playing in this game? There's a significant difference in total DVOA between the two teams. Saints @ -8.6% vs Raiders @ -22.3% and nearly as bad when the VOA isn't adjusted. I don't really have any thoughts on this game, to be honest. If anyone else does, feel free to chime in. This game is one of a few Draft Bowls. Who'll get the higher pick?

Quote Originally Posted by undermysac:

Why is Shrimp in the slammer?

Quote Originally Posted by IntenseOperator:

You don't say!