I think the argument is that Pioli is the brains of the operation, and he's certainly done a fabulous job.

While I don't particularly like him I think Belichick is a fabulous coach. He thinks completely differently to anyone else. The pre-SB 25 plan as defensive co-ordinator of the Giants that for them to win Thurman Thomas would need to rush for 100+ yards against them. The pre SB 36 planning for Mike Martz's ego. The only team who used to consistently bottle up Peyton Manning. It isn't a fluke.

And whether you like him or not, his team finished the regular season 16-0. He should have been coach of the year unanimously.

I'm not entirely sure how it works, but I'm sure that the coach has a pretty big say in who they chase from Free Agency. I thought that the job of Pioli was to firstly source the free agents, work with the coach to decide what was needed and then help the signing negotiations.

Yes, Pioli has done a fabulous job but anyone could see the NE weakness last year was at WR!

Looking forward to the Seahawks/Redskins game. Will be a close game i think, but obviously i hope the Seahawks do enough.

Until two days ago I'd have been with your Blue Boy. Seattle are my 4th (!!!) team BUT after reading benzhiyi's spooky Washington prediction, I now have £5 at 80/1 on the Skins to win the Superbowl.

All that piped fan noise will be enough to keep the Redskins off the field and then the now pass happy Seahawks will pass there way to Green Bay next week!!

Wild card weekend lines and my guesses, er, picks!

Redskins @ Seahawks (-3.5) - Seattle
Jaguars (-2) @ Steelers - Pittsburgh
Giants @ Buccaneers (-2.5) - Tampa Bay
Titans @ Chargers (-9) - Tennessee

Last one's my upset pick. Norv Turner to upset everyone by blowing things a week earlier than expected.

Very interesting the way the America's Game/1986 Giants has started.

"Parcells inherited draft problems, quarterback problems... and it was thought he might be fired after his first year."

Oh, the irony.

Bavaro returned to a game with a broken jaw. :eek:

I think 2 or 3 wildcard teams will win this weekend.

Seattle
Jags
Giants
Chargers

Not sure I like the way Hasselbeck is playing so far tonight. Seems like a lot of passes are sailing on him.

Don't think it's going to create many headlines, but the Seahawks special teams have been pretty solid tonight.

More than a touch of wind to deal with, winds up to 25 mph and about 36F

That'll seal it up.

Jags and Steelers next should be a great one!!

Yep.

NFL vs Celebrity Big Brother Wotsit for Sky+ space.

Fortunately I refuse to reveal the secret of the blue circle with the K in it. :cool:

Blimey. Who knew the Hawks were so good? With a D like that, they're a genuine contender this year.

At the same time, you can't help but commisserate (and, more positively, congratulate) the Skins. If Suisham kicks that field goal they're in with a real shot at the win. Even without it, you have to admire what they've done in recent weeks. The emotions they've been through over the last two months go way beyond football. And while the fairytale ending was just out of reach, I still think they did their team-mate proud. Fair play.

This game only goes to prove you should not bet on the play-offs.

Good start!! 7-7

Jags go up 2 with 37 seconds!!!

What a game!!!