Thoughts on football

I've watched more of the college bowl games this year than I have in the past and have noticed a few things: College football defenses give up more big plays than their NFL counterparts. Hence, the large number of high scoring games. Personally, I like big defensive stands and great coverage. On the flip side, college football offenses are more likely to use trick plays on important downs. Those two big plays in the Boise State game were sure fun to watch.

The NFL playoffs, beginning this weekend, should have some interesting twists and turns. Look for some of the teams with the best records to be knocked off by scrappier clubs. AFC: I still don't think this is the Colts' year - in fact there may not be a Colts' year in Peyton Manning's tenure. The Chargers, while the best overall club, could still cave to Baltimore's defense. Also, don't count out the Patriots; They have the advantage going to the playoffs with so much experience and Yoda as a head coach. My pick: Baltimore. NFC: Cowboys and Giants will lose and the Saints' impossible dream will end. Seattle hasn't been great this year. Rex Grossman kind of stinks. Who does that leave? E-A-G-L-E-S!

In a lot of ways, this year's NFL season was overshadowed by events which happened off the field: TO's overdose, half of the Bengals being arrested, members of the Bears being gun-enthusiasts, and the unfortunate death of Broncos' cornerback Darrent Williams. What's going on here? And whose job is it to stop these things from happening?