Three Way Saturday
By Judd Hall
I know that the preseason in the NFL is essentially a glorified practice, but it’s still a lot of fun to wager on. Saturday offers up the biggest slate of exhibition tilts so far with six on the board. Will the Lions get to taste victory for the first time in almost a year? Was Jay Cutler worth trading for? Are the Seahawks ready to rebound from a lame 2008? Let’s take a look at the nationally televised games now.
Falcons at Lions – 4:00 p.m. EDT, NFL Network
Atlanta was the feel good story of last year as they got out of the Bobby Petrino/Michael Vick debacle of 2007. Now the Falcons enter 2009 with expectations of going deeper into the playoffs.
Mike Smith is going to head into this game with Matt Ryan starting under center and playing for about half of the first quarter. After that it will be Chris Redman, D.J. Shockley and rookie slinger from Alabama, John Parker Wilson. There has been some recent reports showing that Wilson has been way off target on passes and having issues even handling snaps. It makes you wonder if you’ll be sweating out a win if Wilson botches a snap in the fourth quarter.
While the Falcons were the feel good story, Detroit was the car wreck that we slowly stop to watch on the interstate. At least they know that they can only go up from an 0-16 campaign.
The Lions are going into this contest with Daunte Culpepper getting the starting nod for the preseason opener. No. 1 overall pick Matthew Stafford will get onto the field sometime in the second quarter, Drew Stanton will then get his time somewhere in the second half of play.
Regardless of who the quarterback will be, they might be without wide receivers Calvin Johnson and Dennis Northcutt. They have been running routes recently, but are both suffering from hand injuries. The duo is currently listed as game-time decisions.
Most sportsbooks have installed the Lions as three-point home favorites with a total of 34 ½.
Your best play in this game would have to be the ‘under.’ Before taking over the Falcons, Smith was running Jacksonville’s defense. That mindset helped Atlanta hit the ‘under’ in three of its four exhibition matches last year. Take that information with Detroit being helmed by former Titans DC Jim Schwartz and a low score seems guaranteed.
Bears at Bills – 7:00 p.m. EDT, NFL Network
Chicago has wanted a franchise quarterback for a while now…hell, I’d almost say that they’ve never really had one. Well they traded for one (they hope, at least) in Jay Cutler.
Bettors shouldn’t expect much out of Cutler on Saturday night as he’s expected to be a part of five to 10 plays. After him, we’re going to see Caleb Hanie and Brett Basanez take over thereafter.
The Bears appear to be ahead of the curve on defense right now. Cornerback Nate Vasher has been a beast in the secondary during practice. And Lance Briggs is looking like he’s in midseason form already. Will that transition to solid play in an actual game?
Buffalo will be looking to improve on prolonging drives for this week’s tilt. The Bills converted just three of their 11 third downs in the Hall of Fame Game against Tennessee. We probably won’t see too much of Trent Edwards on Saturday. He was so-so against the Titans, completing three of his four passes for 13 yards and one interception. I guess you could look at that as four completions if you want to be a smartass.
The remainder of the Bills’ QB rotation goes like this: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Matt Baker and Gibran Hamdan. Fitzpatrick and Hamdan performed well last Sunday, completing 70 percent of their passes for 150 yards.
None of the signal callers will make a pass to Terrell Owens. He's sitting out with a banged up toe, but should be fine for next week.
Most betting shops have made Buffalo a three-point home “chalk” with a total of 33.
Tony Stoffo mentioned in his preseason profit report that the Bills are 7-0-1 when listed as underdogs over the last three years. What about when listed as favorites? Buffalo is your best fade when favored as they’re 0-5 straight up and against the spread in the last three preseasons.
Seahawks at Chargers – 10:00 p.m. EDT, NFL Network
Most teams going into a preseason with a new head coach has no real idea what they’re getting into. Sure, they have spent time together in camp, but still have yet to know their in-game style. The Seahawks won’t have that problem this year with Jim Mora. That’s because Mora has been the assistant head coach/secondary coach over the last two years under Mike Holmgren.
Things certainly look like they’ll be better for Seattle this preseason with Matt Hasselbeck at full strength for the first time in what seems like ages. The ‘Hawks will follow Hasselbeck up with longtime backup Seneca Wallace, Jeff Rowe and Mike Teel.
The Seahawks will have some problems up front for this contest with left tackle Walter Jones (back), guard Mansfield Wrotto (leg) and guard Grey Ruegamer (elbow) all “out.” That could put a major crimp in any offensive attack Seattle might want to use.
San Diego head coach Norv Turner has said that his squad has not had any major injuries that would cause people not to be ready for the regular season. That’s great news for fans and bettors alike for now and the future.
Philip Rivers is set to go as the starter for the Chargers’ preseason opener. Billy Volek and Charlie Whitehurst will split the rest of the game up.
Las Vegas Sports Consultants have listed San Diego as a three-point home favorite with the total coming in at 36.
If you’d want to take the Chargers here, I wouldn’t blame you. They’ve posted a solid 3-1 SU record at home during Turner’s tenure with the team. As far as playing the spread, you’re flipping a coin since they’re 2-2 ATS.
Seattle has been a great team to back during road preseason games. They’re 5-3 SU and 6-2 ATS since 2005. The Seahawks seem to play in shootouts for these matches as the ‘over’ is 6-2.
vegasinsider.com
Saturday's NFL Preseason Betting Previews
By DAVID JONES
Atlanta Falcons at Detroit Lions (-3, 35 )
Starter/Injury Report
The Falcons’ main focus will be on their defensive personnel Saturday. Four starting positions appear to be up for grabs including two spots on the defensive line.
On offense, veteran Chris Redman will try to hold off D.J. Shockley and rookie John Parker Wilson for the backup quarterback spot behind starter Matt Ryan. Each QB will get a quarter of playing time against Detroit.
The long-suffering Lions fans will get their first glance at top draft choice Matthew Stafford. The offense will not have the services of top receivers Calvin Johnson and Bryant Johnson due to some minor injuries.
Line Movement
The matchup opened as a pick with a total of 35. While the total has held up, the Lions have been moved up to a field goal favorite in the matchup.
Trends
Mike Smith went 2-2 (3-1 ATS) as a rookie head coach in 2008 and covered in the Falcons preseason opener. The Lions were the only undefeated club in last year's preseason.
Weather
Dome
Chicago Bears at Buffalo Bills (-3, 32.5)
Starter/Injury Report
The Chicago faithful will get their first look at Jay Cutler in this matchup. The Bears finally have an elite No.1 at QB but Chicago will also have a new backup quarterback in 2009. Youngsters Brett Basanez and Caleb Hanie should get extensive looks Saturday.
Defensive lineman Tommie Harris will miss the game while recovering from a knee injury.
The Bills’ no-huddle offense yielded 32 pass attempts with just 21 running plays in last week's 21-18 defeat to the Titans. Terrell Owens grabbed a couple of passes in his Bills debut but will be held out against the Bears due to a sore toe.
Buffalo is still without the services of unsigned top draft choice Aaron Maybin, the defensive end from Penn State.
Line Movement
The Bills opened as a 2.5-point favorite with the total set at 32.5. Buffalo is now a 3-point choice in the contest.
Trends
Lovie Smith is 11-10 (8-11-2 ATS) during the preseason with the Bears. Chicago is 2-2-1 ATS in their last five preseason openers. The Bears are 6-2 to the over during the last two preseasons. Dick Jauron is 6-7 (6-6-1 ATS) in exhibition contests with the Bills. Buffalo is 1-6 in its last seven home preseason games.
Weather
The forecast calls for a high of 84 degrees in Orchard Park, New York.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tennessee Titans (-4, 34.5)
Starter/Injury Report
In a heated quarterback battle, Luke McCown will start against the Titans while veteran newcomer Byron Leftwich will garner the starting duties next week against Jacksonville.
The evaluations will be a little more difficult Saturday as top receivers Antonio Bryant and Mark Clayton will be held out of the game. The Bucs will also be without their first-team kicker and punter against Tennessee.
The Titans’ first-team offense was quite sharp in last week's win over Buffalo. Head coach Jeff Fisher indicated that the playing rotations would be similar to the Bills game with the starters seeing a little more action.
Patrick Ramsey (7-for-10 passing vs. Bills) will continue in his bid to unseat Vince Young as the No.2 QB against Tampa.
Line Movement
The Titans opened as 3.5-point favorites with the total set around 34.5. A few books have bumped Tennessee up to a 4-point favorite.
Trends
Since the franchise became known as the Titans in 1999, Fisher is 25-16 (22-18-1 ATS) in the preseason. Tennessee is 13-7 at LP Field in exhibition action.
Weather
The forecast calls for a high of 91 degrees in Nashville.
Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs (-2, 37.5)
Starter/Injury Report
Houston will go with their first team unit for about 12-15 snaps Saturday, according to head coach Gary Kubiak. The second unit, including No.2 QB Dan Orlovsky, will take over for the next two quarters. Former Bears quarterback Rex Grossman and the third-string units are pegged to play in the fourth quarter.
The defense will be without first round draft choice Brian Cushing due to a knee sprain.
The game will mark the Chiefs debut for quarterback Matt Cassel. New head coach Todd Haley will take a close look at holdover quarterbacks Brodie Croyle and Tyler Thigpen to determine who the backup will be.
Line Movement
Kansas City opened as a 2-point favorite with a total of 35. The total has moved up to 37.5 at most books.
Trends
Kubiak is 7-5 (7-3-2 ATS) in the preseason at Houston with a 1-1-1 ATS mark in preseason openers. The Texans are 7-1 to the over in the last two preseasons.
Weather
The forecast calls for a high of 86 degrees with a 40 percent chance of scattered thunderstorms in Kansas City.
Cleveland Browns at Green Bay Packers (-3, 34.5)
Starter/Injury Report
Former Jets head coach Eric Mangini is running a tough camp as the Browns’ new sideline leader. Most fans will once again be focused on the QB battle between Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson.
While he is unlikely to move above his current status as the No.3 QB, former Utah Utes signal-caller Brett Ratliff could be a factor in the second half based on his impressive training camp performance.
Green Bay doesn't have the drama that surrounded last year's training camp. With QB Aaron Rodgers coming off of a strong campaign in his first year as a starter, the Packers figure to give second-year reserves Brian Brohm and Matt Flynn plenty of snaps against Cleveland.
The Packers will unveil their 3-4 defense under new coordinator Dom Capers but first round draft choice B.J. Raji will not suit up against the Browns after inking his contract earlier in the week.
Line Movement
The Packers opened as 3-point favorites with the total set around 34.5. The opening odds have basically held up for this game.
Trends
Mangini went 7-5 (6-5-1 ATS) in the preseason with the Jets while going 2-1 ATS in preseason openers. The Browns were winless in the 2008 preseason. Mike McCarthy is 4-8 (5-7 ATS) in the preseason with Green Bay and is 1-2 ATS in preseason openers. The Packers were 4-0 to the over in their 2008 exhibition contests.
Weather
The forecast calls for a high of 87 degrees with winds at 10 to 20 mph in Green Bay.
Seattle Seahawks at San Diego Chargers (-3.5, 36)
Starter/Injury Report
Seattle fans will be eager to see the return of Matt Hasselbeck but new head coach Jim Mora has indicated that he will play just a series or two against the Chargers. In addition to No.2 QB Seneca Wallace, the Seahawks are likely to give Jeff Rowe and rookie Mike Teel some snaps against San Diego.
Standout offensive linemen Walter Jones will be held out of the game due to back spasms.
LaDainian Tomlinson said he is "95 percent sure" that he could see his first preseason action since 2005 in the 2009 exhibition opener. San Diego reserve quarterbacks Billy Volek and Charlie Whitehurst figure to garner most of the playing time on Saturday behind starter Phillip Rivers.
Line Movement
San Diego opened as a 4-point favorite with a total of 36. The Chargers are now at -3/-3.5 at most books.
Trends
Mora went 8-5 (7-5-1 ATS) in the preseason from 2004-06 in Atlanta while posting a 1-1-1 ATS mark in preseason openers. Norv Turner is 6-2 (5-3 ATS) in the preseason with the Chargers while going 1-1 ATS in exhibition debuts.
Weather
The forecast calls for a high of 69 degrees in San Diego.
NFL PRESEASON
Atlanta at Detroit
The top two quarterbacks taken in the past two NFL drafts meet at Ford Field, with Lions rookie Matthew Stafford seeing his first pro action against the Falcons and reigning Rookie of the Year Matt Ryan.
Ryan, whose first NFL throw in regular-season action last year was a touchdown pass against Detroit, will start tonight and may play the entire first quarter. Coach Mike Smith said his other three passers – Chris Redman, D.J. Shockley and rookie John Parker Wilson – will also play one quarter.
Stafford will have to wait a bit to make his NFL debut, as new Lions coach Jim Schwartz said that veteran Daunte Culpepper will start under center and play into the second quarter before giving way to Stafford. Third-string QB Drew Stanton will finish up.
The Falcons covered in three of four preseason contests in Smith’s first season at the helm last year (2-2 SU), including going 2-0 ATS on the road. Atlanta hasn’t had a losing preseason in any of the last four summers, going 11-6 SU and 11-5-1 ATS. Also, the Falcons have been a very profitable ‘dog during this stretch, going 8-2 ATS.
The Lions’ 2008 preseason was as successful as their regular season was not, as they preceded their record 0-16 campaign with a perfect 4-0 SU and ATS mark in exhibition play. Detroit started off by winning its third consecutive preseason opener – 13-10 over the Giants as a 2½-point home chalk – and finished with three convincing victories over the Bengals (27-10), Browns (26-6) and Bills (14-6). Then the Lions began their winless regular season with a 34-21 loss at Atlanta as a 3½-point road favorite.
Prior to cashing in both games as a favorite last summer, the Lions had failed to cover in five straight August contests as a chalk.
The under is 5-2 in the Falcons’ last seven preseason contests, 4-1 in Detroit’s last five in the summer and 6-3 in the last nine overall meetings between these clubs (1-1 in the preseason).
ATS ADVANTAGE: UNDER
Chicago at Buffalo (0-1, 0-0-1 ATS)
The Jay Cutler era commences for the Bears, who travel to Ralph Wilson Stadium to battle the Bills.
Cutler, who was traded from Denver in the offseason, will start tonight but is only expected to participate for about 15 snaps, while the rest of the first-stringers on both sides of the ball are slated to play into the second quarter. Behind Cutler are inexperienced passers Caleb Hanie and Brett Basanez.
Trent Edwards, who went 3-for-4 for 13 yards and an INT in Sunday’s 21-18 loss to the Titans in the Hall of Fame Game, is expected to play about as much as last week and maybe “a few more plays” coach Dick Jauron said. Ryan Fitzpatrick is the No. 2 quarterback, followed by Matt Baker and Gibran Hamdan. Newly acquired WR Terrell Owens (injury) will sit out.
The Bears are 11-10 SU and 9-11-1 ATS in five preseasons for coach Lovie Smith, including 1-3 SU and ATS last year. However, Chicago has won and covered three of its last four exhibition roadies and is 6-3 ATS as a preseason pup under Smith.
The Bills, who fell behind 21-3 to Tennessee on Sunday, got a miracle spread-push as a three-point underdog when the Titans took an intentional safety on the final play of the game. Since Jauron took over as coach in 2005, Buffalo is 0-5 SU and ATS in preseason home games, all as a favorite. In fact, the Bills are 1-7 ATS as a favorite since 2005.
Although the Hall of Fame Game flew over the total, the under is still 7-3 in Buffalo’s last 10 preseason contests. Conversely, Chicago has topped the posted total in its first three exhibition games each of the last two years.
ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE
Tampa Bay at Tennessee (1-0, 0-0-1 ATS)
The Bucs and new coach Raheem Morris travel north to LP Field for their preseason opener against the Titans.
Tampa Bay remains unsettled at the quarterback position, but Morris has tabbed veteran Luke McCown as the starter tonight. McCown will be on the field for 12-15 plays, and Morris said the plan is the same for newcomer Byron Leftwich, who will follow McCown. Rookie Josh Freeman will start the second half with second-year pro Josh Johnson also playing down the stretch.
Tennessee coach Jeff Fisher said QB Kerry Collins, who led Tennessee to two touchdown drives in last week’s 21-18 victory over Buffalo in the Hall of Fame Game, and the rest of the starters will likely play one more series than they did against the Bills. Vince Young, who was shaky in Sunday’s contest, will once again replace Collins and play through the third quarter with the second-string. Veteran Patrick Ramsey will be the third quarterback off the bench, with rookie Alex Mortensen possibly finishing the contest.
The Buccaneers went 3-1 SU and ATS in each of the past two preseasons under former coach Jon Gruden. Last year, Tampa Bay scored upsets in each of its two exhibition road games, and it has won seven consecutive preseason openers, going 7-0 ATS.
The Titans are now on a 7-2 roll in preseason play since 2007, but just 4-4-1 ATS. Tennessee swept its two preseason home contests in 2008, but is just 2-6 ATS at LP Field in August dating to 2005 and 2-7-1 ATS as an exhibition chalk during this stretch.
The over is 5-2 in Tampa’s last seven exhibition games and 6-2 in Tennessee’s last eight.
ATS ADVANTAGE: TAMPA BAY
Houston at Kansas City
The Texans will try to open the preseason with a victory for the third time in the last four years when they trek to Arrowhead Stadium to take on the new-look Chiefs.
Houston coach Gary Kubiak announced that his starters, including QB Matt Schaub, will be on the field for 12-15 snaps in the first quarter. The second-string, led by veteran QB Dan Orlovsky, will play through the third quarter, with former Bears starting quarterback Rex Grossman guiding the third-team for the duration of the game.
New chiefs coach Todd Haley suggested that his starters, including new No. 1 quarterback Matt Cassel, could play 1½ quarters. Brodie Croyle is battling with Tyler Thigpen for the No. 2 spot, while Matt Gutierrez is fourth on the depth chart.
The Texans went 2-2 SU each of the last two summers (4-3-1 ATS) and they’re 7-5 SU and 7-3-2 ATS since Kubiak took over in 2006, going 5-1 ATS on the road, all as an underdog. They’re also 2-1 SU (1-1-1 ATS) in Week 1 under Kubiak.
The Chiefs split their four preseason contests last year (1-3 ATS), but have otherwise had little success in August in recent years, going 5-15 SU and 4-16 ATS since 2004. During this five-year stretch, Kansas City is 3-7 ATS at home, 2-7 ATS as a chalk and 1-4 ATS in preseason openers.
Kansas City topped the total in three of four summer games last year, and the over is 3-0 in its last three preseason home games. Also, the over is 7-1 for Houston over the last two exhibition campaigns.
ATS ADVANTAGE: HOUSTON and OVER
Cleveland at Green Bay
New coach Eric Mangini takes the field with the Browns for the first time as they invade Lambeau Field for a clash with the Packers.
Mangini this week listed Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn as co-starting quarterbacks, meaning he’s not close to deciding whom he’ll put under center when the regular season begins. And while he told both passers on Friday who would start and how long each would play, he did not make that information public. Both figure to see significant action, with third-stringer Brett Ratliff moping up.
Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy wasn’t forthcoming on his plans for this contest, but expect Aaron Rodgers, beginning his second season in charge of the Packers’ offense, to start and play a handful of series Rodgers is backed up by second-year pros Matt Flynn and Brian Brohm.
The Browns went winless in the preseason last year (0-4 SU and ATS) after going 11-5 SU and 12-4 ATS the previous four summers, including 6-2 SU and ATS on the road and 8-2 ATS as an underdog. On the bright side, Mangini won eight of his 12 preseason contests as coach of the Jets from 2006-08, going 4-1 ATS on the road.
The Packers haven’t had a winning August since 2002, and they’re 4-8 (5-7 ATS) in three years under McCarthy. Last year, Green Bay lost both of its preseason home games and it has split the cash in its two Lambeau contests each of the last five preseasons.
The over is 9-3 for Green Bay in the preseason under McCarthy (5-1 at home). However, the under is 6-3 in Cleveland’s last nine August outings (3-1 on the road).
ATS ADVANTAGE: CLEVELAND
Seattle at San Diego
The Jim Mora era commences at Qualcomm Stadium as the coach guides the Seahawks against the Chargers.
Mora wasn’t specific about playing time for this contest, but did hint that veteran QB Matt Hasselbeck would only be on the field for a series or two. Veteran backup Seneca Wallace will take over for Hasselbeck and see time with the first-team offensive line. Jeff Rowe and rookie Mike Teel, who are battling for the No. 3 spot, will likely split time in the second half.
San Diego coach Norv Turner refused to specify exactly how much action his starters will get against Seattle, but did say he informed his players to be prepared to play a full half. If past history is any indication, No. 1 quarterback Philip Rivers will start and play two to three series before giving way to veteran backup Billy Volek for the rest of the half, followed by third-stringer Charlie Whitehurst. One potentially big change for San Diego: RB LaDainian Tomlinson, who hasn’t made a preseason appearance since 2005, said he’s “95 percent” certain he’ll be on the field – if only briefly – tonight.
Mora takes over for legendary coach Mike Holmgren, who finished his tenure in Seattle with two strong preseasons, going 6-2 SU and 7-1 ATS, including six consecutive spread-covers going back to Week 3 in 2007. Since 2004, the Seahawks are 13-7 SU and ATS overall in August, 7-3 (8-2 ATS) as a visitor, 7-2 ATS when catching points and 5-1 SU and ATS in Week 1.
The Chargers went 3-1 SU in Turner’s first two preseasons, and last year they cashed in three of four exhibition contests after going 2-2 ATS each of the previous five years. San Diego has also won seven of its last eight preseason home games (5-3 ATS).
These teams have met in August each of the last three years, with the Chargers winning twice and Seattle going 2-1 ATS. In fact, since 2002, the Seahawks are on a 6-1 roll versus San Diego, including two regular-season games.
The over is 9-2 in Seattle’s last 11 preseason contests and 13-5 in the last 18. The over is also 7-3 for San Diego in preseason action since 2006.
ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER
Gametimepicks.com
Atlanta at Detroit
Atlanta Coach Smith says all four quarterbacks will each get one quarter of work Saturday vs Detroit. Ryan, Redman,Shockley, and Wilson.
Detroit Daunte Culpepper will start at quarterback in Detroit's preseason opener against Atlanta on Saturday.Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Friday that top draft pick Matthew Stafford will enter the game at some point in the second quarter of the home game against the Falcons. Stafford said the team's three quarterbacks, including Drew Stanton, are expecting to get about the same number of snaps against the Falcons.
Chicago at Buffalo
Chicago HC Lovie Smith said he planned to play starters into the second quarter.
No Info On Buff
Tampa Bay at Tennessee
Tampa Bay Luke McCown will start at Quarterback, with veteran Byron Leftwich receiving approximately the same amount of playing time. Rookie Josh Freeman and second-year pro Josh Johnson will each play in the second half against the Titans.
Tennessee Kerry Collins will play 2-3 series followed by Vince Young who will play about 2 quarters,followed by Patrick Ramsey.
Houston at Kansas City
Houston "Our first group will probably play 12 to 15 snaps in the game. There are some guys in our first group, very young players, who will play more than that. They will play probably 20 to 25 snaps. Our twos will basically play the second and third quarters, then our threes will play the fourth quarter,
No Info on KC.
Cleveland at Green Bay
Green Bay Head coach Mike McCarthy says he'll play his starters for 10 to 12 plays.
No Info on Cleveland.
Seattle at San Diego
Seattle HC Jim Mora said QB Matt Hasselbeck is expected to play a series or two in the first exhibition game this weekend.
No Info on SD
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Tennessee Titans
WEEK 2 and 1 STEP AHEAD
What entered as a dominant pro-Buffalo crowd at Fawcett Stadium in Canton, Ohio one week ago was quickly silenced by a Tennessee Titans team that showed flashes of last year’s 13-3 division winner. The Titans, led by veteran QB Kerry Collins, stormed out to a 21-6 halftime lead at last week’s Hall of Fame Game, leaving Bills fans to solely relish over the induction of owner, Ralph Wilson and defensive end, Bruce Smith. Collins, whose participation was of course limited, connected on seven of his ten passes, and lead the Titans to a pair of scores, one which was capped off by a 40-yard run on an A.J. Trapasso fake punt on the game’s opening drive. Speaking about his performance, Collins said, “I’m encouraged. It doesn’t take as long to get ready, but I’ll take advantage of the work I’m going to get.” Tennessee’s defense stood strong as well, as Michael Griffin picked off a Trent Edwards pass in the first quarter that lead to a second Titans touchdown, this time punched in by a slimmer, LenDale White; Tennessee forced three turnovers in the contest. Despite Buffalo having an entire extra week of camp before the preseason opener, the Titans stole the show in every regard… which now doesn’t bode well for Tampa Bay, as they begin their season at LP Field on Saturday.
NEW SEASON NEW FACES
Jon Gruden… gone. Broadcasting. Monte Kiffin… gone. Knoxville, Tennessee to coach under his son. Raheem Morris, after a split six years with the Bucs was promoted in the off season, from defensive backs coach to head coach for the first time in his career. With him comes an entirely new staff, new offense, new defense, new everything. Tampa Bay, much like the end of this country’s recession, is widely unknown. Former Denver Broncos assistant head coach/defense coordinator, Jim Bates steps in to run the Bucs’ defense; Bates brings with him an extensive 17-year NFL resume that includes being the defensive coordinator in Green Bay, Atlanta and Miami, where he also served as the Dolphins’ interim head coach in 2004. Jeff Jagodzinski was hired as the teams’ offensive coordinator, returning to the NFL as well, after spending the last two seasons as the head coach at Boston College. Without having played a single game and having new schemes, personnel and players, Tampa Bay will get 2009 underway in surprising fashion, yet nothing for Titans coach Jeff Fisher to worry about. “We have no information what so ever on Tampa Bay’s offense because it’s new and they have not played a game,” Fisher said. “We are not going to game plan against them. We are just going to line up and play.” As Tampa tries to solidify a depth chart that includes an injured wide receiver in Antonio Bryant (torn left meniscus) and five running backs, it seems as though the Bucs have plenty to worry about even before they see Chris Johnson, Kyle Vanden Bosch and Keith Bullock.
INTANGIBLES
While Jeff Fisher has appointed Vince Young as the Titans number two quarterback and Patrick Ramsey the three, fans in Nashville are as skeptical and down on VY as they were last season. Despite the former third overall pick throwing a touchdown pass in the second quarter of the Hall of Fame Game, Young threw an interception on just his second pass of the night. “It happens, man,” Young commented. “I know everybody wants me to go out and be perfect, but it’s not happening like that. You can’t just jump into it.” VY finished five of ten on the night for 39-yards; Ramsey finished eight of ten for 72-yards in the second half.
Tampa Bay selected Josh Freeman with the 17th overall selection in April’s draft. The quarterback out of Kansas State is currently listed as the team’s third string option behind starter, Luke McCown and off season pickup, Byron Leftwich. Don’t count Freeman or Leftwich out, even if they perform poorly in Nashville; nothing is set under center in Tampa, though Josh Johnson isn’t expected to make the team’s final roster.
PLAYING THE NUMBERS GAME
Tennessee has won five of the last seven meetings with the Bucs dating back to 1989 (as the Houston Oilers), however Tampa Bay has won the last two consecutive contests (one of which was a preseason game in 2005); The Titans’ last win over the Bucs came in December of 2003.
The Titans are a 3.5-point favorite for Saturday’s pre-season game at LP Field with the over/under at 34.5-points. Kickoff in Nashville is set for 8:00pm Eastern.
Touthouse.com
Tips and Trends
Cleveland Browns at Green Bay Packers
Browns: Eric Mangini takes over a Cleveland squad that has made just one postseason appearance with no playoff victories, since re-entering the NFL in 1999. Mangini faces many challenges in trying to improve on last year’s 4-12 mark. One of the biggest tasks is improving an offense that failed to score during the last six games of 2008. Mangini needs to decide on a starting quarterback, either Brady Quinn or Derek Anderson. So both quarterbacks should be pumped for this matchup. Mangini has been drilling the Browns on a no-huddle offense, a scheme Anderson feels comfortable with because he’s more of a rhythm passer. The Browns, though, don’t want to show too much of their playbook since the teams meet again in the regular season on Oct. 25 in Cleveland. Mangini is keeping the Browns’ 3-4 defensive alignment although much improvement is needed.
The Browns were 0-4 straight-up and against the spread last year in preseason.
Key Injuries - None
PROJECTED SCORE: 17 (Side of the Day)
Packers (-2.5, O/U 35): The Packers haven’t had a full contact scrimmage yet because their annual intra-squad game had to be called off because of bad weather. The Packers return 21 of their 22 starters, although their offensive line remains unsettled. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the rest of the first-string offense are only expected to play a couple of series. That has been the Packers’ tradition under Mike McCarthy during their first preseason game. Second-year pros Matt Flynn and Brian Brohm complete Green Bay’s quarterback rotation. The Packers are switching to a 3-4 defensive alignment, so their starting defense may play longer as the team tries to get game experience. Aaron Kampman is making the biggest adjustment going from defensive end to linebacker. Neither of Green Bay’s punters, Durant Brooks nor Jeremy Kapinos, has looked good in training camp. First-round draft pick B.J. Raji isn’t ready to play yet.
Green Bay is 1-7 to the Under the past eight years during Week 1 of the preseason.
Key Injuries - Linebacker Nick Barnett (knee) is out.
PROJECTED SCORE: 19
Seattle Seahawks at San Diego Chargers
Seahawks: Seattle is looking to bounce back from a disappointing 4-12 year, but its season’s rests on the health of quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, who missed more than half the year with a bulging disc in his back. Reports are Hasselbeck is healthy, but there’s nothing like live game action to confirm. He’s not expected to play long, however. Before he exits, Hasselbeck may look for the Seahawks’ new wide receiver, T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Julius Jones enters the contest as Seattle’s No. 1 runner. Jim Mora replaces Mike Holmgren as head coach. Mora, formerly head man for Atlanta from 2004-2006, isn’t afraid to give plenty of playing time to No. 1 draft pick linebacker Aaron Curry, who is expected to play into the third quarter. The Seahawks have covered seven of their last eight preseason games the past two years, including going 4-0 against the number last year.
The Seahawks are 7-1 ATS in their last eight preseason games.
Key Injuries - Left tackle Walter Jones (back) and cornerback Marcus Trufant (back) are not expected to play.
PROJECTED SCORE: 17
Chargers (-3, O/U 36): The Chargers really don’t have too much to play for in preseason being the heavy favorites to capture the AFC West Division. Still, there is speculation LaDainian Tomlinson could see his first preseason action since 2005 after having a down 2008 season. Darren Sproles, Jacob Hester and Michael Bennett, though, are expected to get the bulk of the carries. Fourth-round draft choice Gartrell Johnson also may run the ball. The big story on defense is the return of Pro Bowl linebacker Shawne Merriman and if he’ll have his quickness after a knee injury cost him nearly the entire 2008 season. Chargers coach Norv Turner also wants to see the pass rush potential of first-round pick Larry English. San Diego edged Seattle last year at home in preseason, 18-17, despite being outgained 392-298. The Chargers were favored by 5 ½ points in that contest.
The Chargers have gone Over in 5 of their past 6 preseason games.
Key Injuries - None
PROJECTED SCORE: 20 (OVER - Total of the Day)
Falcons and Lions square off
By SBGGlobal.com
Atlanta Falcons at Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions will unveil the top pick in the NFL Draft, Matthew Stafford on Saturday as they host the Atlanta Falcons in preseason action. The Lions have a new head coach in Jim Schwartz, a new quarterback in Stafford, and a renewed enthusiasm heading into the 2009 season.
Detroit is a 3 point favorite with a total of 35 at SBG Global.
The Lions went winless in the regular season a year ago but most people believe Detroit will be vastly improved this season. Schwartz is a defensive coach and his job will be to improve a defense that was the second worst in NFL betting history. The Lions have a lot of newcomers on defense including linebackers Julian Peterson and Larry Foote. They also added tackle Grady Jackson and cornerbacks Phillip Buchanon and Anthony Henry.
The biggest story in the preseason for Detroit will be the quarterback battle between Stafford and Daunte Culpepper. They will be throwing to superstar wide receiver Calvin Johnson and some newcomers including Bryant Johnson, Dennis Northcutt and draft picks Derrick Williams and tight end Brandon Pettigrew. Johnson and Pettigrew may not see NFL betting action on Saturday due to injury. Culpepper will be starting on Saturday with Stafford coming into the game sometime in the second quarter. Schwartz has said that just because Culpepper is starting the first preseason game, the starting job has not been decided. "Don't read anything into it," said Schwartz. Following Culpepper and Stafford at quarterback will be Drew Stanton.
Atlanta is one of the favorites in the NFC but they did not sit still in the off-season. They added tight end Tony Gonzalez who they picked up from Kansas City and linebacker Mike Peterson who they got from Jacksonville. Draft picks Peria Jerry and William Moore are also expected to contribute this season.
The Falcons won’t be playing Matt Ryan much on Saturday as he will go a few series followed by backups Chris Redman, D.J. Shockley, and rookie John Parker Wilson.
Atlanta has won two of the three all-time meetings against Detroit. The last time the teams met in the preseason was in 1999 when Atlanta won 35-31 at home.