WoodysGirl
11-10-2004, 12:19 PM
Chris Mortensen: (11:00 AM ET ) Good morning! As usual, there's plenty to talk about. I'll see how much I can get to...
Chris (Canada): Hey Mort, How about some props to Donahoe for that McGahee pick? and, do you think the Bills are finally starting to gel enough to beat the Pats?
Chris Mortensen: (11:03 AM ET ) Yeah, it's amazing how Bills GM Tom Donohoe caught so much flak for using an extra first round pick he got from the Falcons (for Peerless Price) and converted into Willis McGahee. Yes, there was some risk. But the reward was great. McGahee is still only at 90 percent but he is a load - 6-foot, 238 pounds (actual weight). The Bills are almost there - I don't think enough to beat the Patriots on the road, though.
Antoine (Los Angeles): hey Mort, what are the chances that the Dolphins can sign Drew Brees in the offseason? The way he has playing is definitely an upgrade over Feeley and Fiedler!
Chris Mortensen: (11:04 AM ET ) There are so many unaswered questions about the Dolphins and Drew Brees' status that it's tough to foresee the future. It's funny, because I thought the Dolphins should have used a late first-round pick on Brees when he came out. Quarterback will be a priority for the Dolphins.
Bradley (Grayson): How important is the game this weekend between Minnesota and Green Bay. The Pack are rolling and the Vikes are struggling.
Chris Mortensen: (11:07 AM ET ) It's fairly important. But I have to tell you - other than the Giants' loss - I have been very impressed by the Vikings. I was really impressed Monday night, playing without Randy Moss but almost beating the Colts on the road. Their defense is improved and they can run the ball. Even if the Packers win this game - and they're favored - I do not think the Vikings are headed for a collapse. That would surprise me.
Dan (Minneapolis): Mort, Everybody is all up in arms over McGahee and I just don't get it. Don't get me wrong, I think he is a heck of a back. But both he and Travis Henry can't even average 4 ypc. You are looking at a difference of 3.4 ypc to 3.7 ypc. Being Henry was playing hurt, the only real difference I see between the two is the spark McGahee gives them.
Chris Mortensen: (11:08 AM ET ) You have to watch McGahee to understand why he's a difference maker. He is making three yards when there is nothing there. When he gets his explosiveness back, that average will go up. Henry is a really good back, too, yes, but McGahee might be special.
Dave (Wash DC): Mort, how tradeable is Philip River, i.e., to the extent that San Diego decides to retain Drew?
Chris Mortensen: (11:09 AM ET ) I have been told that Rivers is virtually un-tradeable because of the contract and the salary cap accelerations, etc.
Quincy Carter (Hempstead, NY): Hey Chris, how well am I going to play with Chad being out? Will I at least win majority of the games?
Chris Mortensen: (11:11 AM ET ) Yes, Quincy, I think you'll do fine. .. Carter is not untested. He did throw for 3,000 yards and he won 10 games last year. He has mobility and he has a strong arm. I think the Baltimore game is a tough one - Curtis Martin and the O-line have to come up big. I see the Jets staying in the race until Chad comes back.
tommy (madison, wi): wouldn't green bay be perfect for Drew brees after Brett retires. Could this happen???
Chris Mortensen: (11:12 AM ET ) Yes, it could happen if Brees gets his free agency and Brett retires. definite possibility.
mjk (PA Baby!): Mort, what is going on in St. Louis? Is Martz ever going to use his talented running backs, and is their defense that bad?
Chris Mortensen: (11:14 AM ET ) I was shocked at the Rams' performance Sunday against the Pats. The defense does look awful. I think the most shocking thing was the performance of an offensive line that couldn't protect against a 3-man rush or open holes for the running game. Very disappointing.
Kirk (Chaska, MN): With Clarett's time in the spotlight this week, does it make him look like a Grade-A headcase, or is he talented enough for a team to still take a shot on him in a relatively early round?
Chris Mortensen: (11:15 AM ET ) Clarett has a few problems. First, he has only played, what, about eight college games and that was two years ago. His character issues are real but there are teams that disregard that. Based on what I have heard around the league, he is not going to be an early round pick.
Mike, Elk Grove CA: Do you think the York's will ever sell the 49er's so they can get back to being a quality football team?
Chris Mortensen: (11:17 AM ET ) The York's have said the team is not for sale. I think that is no rock solid. In other words, at some point I think they could put the team on the market.
Eric - Pittsburgh: You think James Farrior will get into the Pro Bowl this year or is the RayRay hype to much to over come despite Farrior having a better year?
Chris Mortensen: (11:17 AM ET ) I think Farrior is having a Pro Bowl year but I can't say its' better than Ray Lewis.
John NY: Hey Mort, the Giants brought in Warner to keep the mistakes to a minimum. Now that he has made so many recently how much pressure do you think there is on Coughlin to get Eli some action?
Chris Mortensen: (11:19 AM ET ) I don't think there is pressure on Coughlin - it's on Warner. You can't be that careles with the ball - and you can't hold onto it as long as Warner is. The QB competition between Warner and Manning was very tight, so Eli will play if Warner doesn't pick it up. That's an easy decision for the coach, I think.
Wes, AC: Are the Steelers a fraud? I just don't see how they have the talent to keep up w/ the top teams of the NFL.
Chris Mortensen: (11:21 AM ET ) You're off the mark. The Steelers have enough talent - their offensive line (left side, especially) is outstanding, they have a deep RB corps, their WRs are near the top of the league and they have a big, young QB with a lot of talent. On defense, I think there's some holes but there are some guys - like James Farrior - playing at a very high level. They also are playing like a "team" - very selfless.
Ricky (Knoxville, Tn): Is it true that the Falcons are installing some shotgun plays for Vick?
Chris Mortensen: (11:22 AM ET ) Yes, that's true.
Paul (Charlottesville): Are the Chargers playing above their potential or what? As a Broncos fan, I'm getting tired of looking over my shoulder at a team I thought would coast to last in the division. What are the chances that San Diego surpasses Denver and wins the AFC West?
Chris Mortensen: (11:24 AM ET ) I think the Chargers are dangerous. Marty Schottenheimer has found the right chemistry and they have the QB (Brees) playing at a high level. They have developed a Pro Bowl-caliber TE in gates, they may get better on offense when Tomlinson gets healthy. They have one heck of a coaching staff. And their schedule ain't bad. Sorry, you'll have to be uncomfortable, I think. The Chargers are a great story.
Rob Detroit: Hey Mort, great work! What do you think is the biggest problem with the Lions? Why can't they run the ball? Is it really the offensive line?
Chris Mortensen: (11:26 AM ET ) Gosh, I don't know. I think a running game is a coordination of line and backs and play-calling (sequencing & formation). It looks to me like they just haven't jelled, so let's see what happens in the second half. They can't make a run without the running game coming around.
AJ (Denver): Mort, could there be any truth to the NFL Network's rumor that Shanahan might go to Miami?
Chris Mortensen: (11:28 AM ET ) I have not heard that rumor. I can't fathom that happening. Now if it was Adam Schefter who reported it, I would have to give it some credence because he is a former longtime Broncos' beat man and he has great contacts there, especially with Shanahan. But it makes no sense, nor would I think that Pat Bowlen allow it. Plus, the Dolphins job is going to be a lot of work for someone - the offense has to be rebuilt and they have some real salary cap problems.
Troy (Buffalo): Is the lack of improvement of Kyle Boller affecting Jim Fassell's value as a head coach? Should his name be discussed as a top candidate over others for open positions???
Chris Mortensen: (11:29 AM ET ) First of all, you hire a head coach. You don't hire for "offense" or quarterback. Plus, Boller is improving, though the jury is out. Let's see how Kyle does when he gets Ogden and Heap back. But, yes, Fassel should be considered as a top candidate for any job. I really believe that.
Jon, Miami: Do the Dolphins have to wait till the end of the season to interview coordinators of other teams?
Chris Mortensen: (11:31 AM ET ) Yes, they must wait until after the regular season to interview NFL assistants. And they get only during the wild card week to interview playoff coordinators / assistants. They are free to interview college guys and a guy like Fassel is free to interview after Jan. 1 - his contract is designed that way - even if the Ravens make the playoffs.
Chris Mortensen: (11:32 AM ET ) Mesage to Matt: Quit repeating your question. It's basically already been answered.
Derek (Cleveland): I believe the Shanahan rumor was him going to the U of FLA...not Miami.
Chris Mortensen: (11:33 AM ET ) Thanks. I have heard that one and Shanahan has said he's not interested. But I have to check on the other "rumor."
Troy (Buffalo): Can Drew Bledsoe be a backup? Losman is the future of the Bills and I am wondering what happens to Drew after this season...Could Drew be possible trade bait? Or do you think he accepts a backup role?
Chris Mortensen: (11:34 AM ET ) I think Bledsoe might surprise people - if the bills get this running game going, then Bledsoe is still a pretty good QB, especially as young Lee Evans learns how to play in this league. But I do think Drew will accept a backup role when the time is right. That may be in 2005 - or perhaps in 2006.
AJ (Denver): No, it was Schefter last night on the NFL Network and it was Miami. They are all over it locally today. Like Mort the only reason I even thought twice about it is Schefter -- he predicted the Portis and Bailey deal.
Chris Mortensen: (11:35 AM ET ) There you go. I still doubt it will happen, but Schefter's reporting it makes it credible.
Matt (St. Louis): Mort--How do you see the MN RB situation playing out? Will O. Smith be the starter and get most of the carries, or will they use a group approach? Thanks!
Chris Mortensen: (11:36 AM ET ) I think Onterrio Smith will be the featured back with Michael Bennett running out of some spread formations; Moe Williams and Melwelde Moore will get a few carries.
Mark (Stamford): Mort, is Gibbs ever going to sit Brunell? Was his line 58 yards passing last week vs. Detroit? Something like that.
Chris Mortensen: (11:38 AM ET ) Gibbs seems very committed to Brunell. He was adamant with the Washington media that he should be blamed for the lack of passing last Sunday - that he (Gibbs) decided to make it a ground game. I think this story won't go away.
Bob (Chicago): The Chiefs and Saints are two pretty inconsistent teams, do you see either of them showing up this weekend?
Chris Mortensen: (11:39 AM ET ) I still hold out hope for the Chiefs; I see little hope for the Saints. They are really a disappointment.
Paul (Milwaukee, WI): Do you see anyone being able to stop the Steelers at this point? Is there anyone in the AFC that can really challenge them?
Chris Mortensen: (11:42 AM ET ) Well, it's only midseason. remember, the Chiefs were hot at this point, too. I think the AFC so really tough. Very deep. I think 14 of of the 16 teams in the AFC are pretty good, or getting better. I only have real doubts about Miami and Oakland. My point being, don't get too smug. Long way to go, but you have to like what you see with the Steelers.
Dave (Dallas): Hey Paul in Milwaukee: How about the Ravens who already beat up on the Steelers? Come on Mort give that Nasty Defense some love....
Chris Mortensen: (11:43 AM ET ) I think the Ravens are going to very tough to beat in the second half of the season.
Frox (Hanover, PA): Mort - Why do so many people rank the Ravens so low when they have the number 1 defense (scoring) in the NFL and score more points with their defense and special teams than any team in the league? The Colts have a top offense, but their D is at the bottom. The Ravens have a top defense, offense at the bottom. Both are 5-3 yet most think the Colts are the better team. Why?
Chris Mortensen: (11:45 AM ET ) Probably because most NFL followers - fans and media - are offensive-oriented. It's probably something like, Peyton Manning vs. Kyle Boller. But you have a very good point because it's pretty much a given that you must have a top-10 defense to win the big one.
George Buffalo, ny: Randy Moss, what's his status?
Chris Mortensen: (11:45 AM ET ) Moss won't be playing against Green Bay this week.
beth, north lauderdale, florida: i amin a fantasy football league and lately the game have been so unpredicable that i have no idea how to put in my line-up...any suggestions>
Chris Mortensen: (11:46 AM ET ) Just flip a coin on your guys. You'll do better that way.
Joe (greenville,sc): Alot of panther fans think its time for caroline to find new coordinators, what do you think???
Chris Mortensen: (11:48 AM ET ) I think that's ridiculous. They are the same coordinators who got you to the Super Bowl last year. In the Panthers' case, it's just a fact - too many bigtime injuries. Also, the decimation of the offensive line combined with the injuries to Davis/Foster/Smith has also hurt the defense - because O-coordinator Dan Henning is one of the best at managing the clock and helping out the defense.
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada: The Bucs are flying under the radar screen Mort, written off, but look out!!
Chris Mortensen: (11:49 AM ET ) I agree! If the Bucs beat the Falcons this week, watch out. Look at the NFC - I have a feeling the Bucs will make the playoffs. But they can't have a whole ot of injuries in the second half of the season.
Steve (SF, CA): Mort, long suffering Fins fan here! Don't you think most improtant hiring that Huzeinga should condier is Pres./GM? SHould he first look at Scott Pioli in NE?
Chris Mortensen: (11:51 AM ET ) I do think hiring the right guy to lead the front office and the organization should be the first priority. Pioli is a guy that any franchise should look at, if they're looking to find that Pres/GM type. There are others, too.
Chad (LR, Ark): Why don't the Colts run the ball more? It seems to me if your defense isn't very good, you would want them to stay off the field.
Chris Mortensen: (11:53 AM ET ) You didn't pay attention Monday night, did you? The Colts actually ran more times (31) than they passed (29) - at least I think that's right. I know Peyton Manning pushed the idea that the team has to have more balance in order to help the defense. That did happen Monday night.
Joe (San Antonio TX): Hey Mort!! Should the Cowboys draft a QB with one of the two 1st round picks next year?? They should have a plan B incase Drew Henson fails IMO, what do you think???
Chris Mortensen: (11:54 AM ET ) Only if there is a first-round QB worthy of a shot. But I think they will use their picks to get bigger and better on defense. Their draft will be dictated by their success on the free agent market next March, too.
Tom (Boston): Why in the world would the pats allow pioli to leave, especially to a division rival.
Chris Mortensen: (11:56 AM ET ) I don't think they would have the option to block him because Pioli does not have the "final authority" or "decision-making" power in his contract - it belongs to Belichick. That would give some astute franchise a chance to compete for his services.
Derrick Blaylock (KC): Is Priest out this week and I am going to start or is LJ going to see the bulk of the carries?
Chris Mortensen: (11:58 AM ET ) Priest Holmes took a helmet righton the knee, so they're calling it a "strained" MCL. Holmes is a different guy. He may be the one guy who will play thru this, but I wonder how effective he will be, whether he can cut or not. I have a feeling it's going to be a weekend decision - check NFL Countdown on Sunday.
Chico, Monterrey: What do you think of the Clarett case? Is this going to explode?
Chris Mortensen: (12:00 PM ET ) I personally have a hard time giving Clarett any credibility. The guys who are making the allegations ll have shady character issues - and generally there is a paper trail on some of these charges. And nobody produced any paper. Also, some of the allegations may ahve sounded fishy but are, in fact, not NCAA violations. But maybe it will spark another investigation and we'll discover the truth.
Dan (Chicago, IL): Once again, no love for the Bears Mort. Why do you never recognize the job Lovie Smith and Ron Rivera are doing with this defense?
Chris Mortensen: (12:01 PM ET ) Here's a hug. Yes, I like what Smith and Rivera are doing with the defense, just as Liked what Dick Jauron and Greg Blache did with it last year. I think Terry Shea is making progress with the offense, too.
Mark (Boise, ID): Mort - why is there such a large difference in the contract dollars between the NFC games & the AFC games. Seems like CBS is getting a deal?
Chris Mortensen: (12:03 PM ET ) NFC teams are large market teams - New York Giants, Philadlehia, Washington, dallas, detroit....but the AFC is just flat out a better conference.
sean (pgh): i think LeBeau needs more props for the job he has done. this is the same defense as last year and this year has been far more productive!
Chris Mortensen: (12:03 PM ET ) I agree. Dick LeBeau has really made a difference.
Luke (New Orleans, LA): I think Priest should suit up this week! Come on even a one legged Runningback could crack 100+ yards on the Saints D.
Chris Mortensen: (12:04 PM ET ) You don't have Priest on your fantasy team do you?
Rick (Washington DC): Are the Bengals improving and do they have a shot at the playoffs
Chris Mortensen: (12:06 PM ET ) The Bengals are improving, absolutely. Their defense has settled down some and they seemed to have found themselves on offense. Again, the AFC is deep and I see them falling a little short of the playoffs. But that's why they play the games!
Chris Mortensen: (12:06 PM ET ) I have to go. I am working on a little mid-season awards deal, so i hope to get that posted in a couple of hours or so. Thanks for your time again. All my best and God Bless!
Chris (Canada): Hey Mort, How about some props to Donahoe for that McGahee pick? and, do you think the Bills are finally starting to gel enough to beat the Pats?
Chris Mortensen: (11:03 AM ET ) Yeah, it's amazing how Bills GM Tom Donohoe caught so much flak for using an extra first round pick he got from the Falcons (for Peerless Price) and converted into Willis McGahee. Yes, there was some risk. But the reward was great. McGahee is still only at 90 percent but he is a load - 6-foot, 238 pounds (actual weight). The Bills are almost there - I don't think enough to beat the Patriots on the road, though.
Antoine (Los Angeles): hey Mort, what are the chances that the Dolphins can sign Drew Brees in the offseason? The way he has playing is definitely an upgrade over Feeley and Fiedler!
Chris Mortensen: (11:04 AM ET ) There are so many unaswered questions about the Dolphins and Drew Brees' status that it's tough to foresee the future. It's funny, because I thought the Dolphins should have used a late first-round pick on Brees when he came out. Quarterback will be a priority for the Dolphins.
Bradley (Grayson): How important is the game this weekend between Minnesota and Green Bay. The Pack are rolling and the Vikes are struggling.
Chris Mortensen: (11:07 AM ET ) It's fairly important. But I have to tell you - other than the Giants' loss - I have been very impressed by the Vikings. I was really impressed Monday night, playing without Randy Moss but almost beating the Colts on the road. Their defense is improved and they can run the ball. Even if the Packers win this game - and they're favored - I do not think the Vikings are headed for a collapse. That would surprise me.
Dan (Minneapolis): Mort, Everybody is all up in arms over McGahee and I just don't get it. Don't get me wrong, I think he is a heck of a back. But both he and Travis Henry can't even average 4 ypc. You are looking at a difference of 3.4 ypc to 3.7 ypc. Being Henry was playing hurt, the only real difference I see between the two is the spark McGahee gives them.
Chris Mortensen: (11:08 AM ET ) You have to watch McGahee to understand why he's a difference maker. He is making three yards when there is nothing there. When he gets his explosiveness back, that average will go up. Henry is a really good back, too, yes, but McGahee might be special.
Dave (Wash DC): Mort, how tradeable is Philip River, i.e., to the extent that San Diego decides to retain Drew?
Chris Mortensen: (11:09 AM ET ) I have been told that Rivers is virtually un-tradeable because of the contract and the salary cap accelerations, etc.
Quincy Carter (Hempstead, NY): Hey Chris, how well am I going to play with Chad being out? Will I at least win majority of the games?
Chris Mortensen: (11:11 AM ET ) Yes, Quincy, I think you'll do fine. .. Carter is not untested. He did throw for 3,000 yards and he won 10 games last year. He has mobility and he has a strong arm. I think the Baltimore game is a tough one - Curtis Martin and the O-line have to come up big. I see the Jets staying in the race until Chad comes back.
tommy (madison, wi): wouldn't green bay be perfect for Drew brees after Brett retires. Could this happen???
Chris Mortensen: (11:12 AM ET ) Yes, it could happen if Brees gets his free agency and Brett retires. definite possibility.
mjk (PA Baby!): Mort, what is going on in St. Louis? Is Martz ever going to use his talented running backs, and is their defense that bad?
Chris Mortensen: (11:14 AM ET ) I was shocked at the Rams' performance Sunday against the Pats. The defense does look awful. I think the most shocking thing was the performance of an offensive line that couldn't protect against a 3-man rush or open holes for the running game. Very disappointing.
Kirk (Chaska, MN): With Clarett's time in the spotlight this week, does it make him look like a Grade-A headcase, or is he talented enough for a team to still take a shot on him in a relatively early round?
Chris Mortensen: (11:15 AM ET ) Clarett has a few problems. First, he has only played, what, about eight college games and that was two years ago. His character issues are real but there are teams that disregard that. Based on what I have heard around the league, he is not going to be an early round pick.
Mike, Elk Grove CA: Do you think the York's will ever sell the 49er's so they can get back to being a quality football team?
Chris Mortensen: (11:17 AM ET ) The York's have said the team is not for sale. I think that is no rock solid. In other words, at some point I think they could put the team on the market.
Eric - Pittsburgh: You think James Farrior will get into the Pro Bowl this year or is the RayRay hype to much to over come despite Farrior having a better year?
Chris Mortensen: (11:17 AM ET ) I think Farrior is having a Pro Bowl year but I can't say its' better than Ray Lewis.
John NY: Hey Mort, the Giants brought in Warner to keep the mistakes to a minimum. Now that he has made so many recently how much pressure do you think there is on Coughlin to get Eli some action?
Chris Mortensen: (11:19 AM ET ) I don't think there is pressure on Coughlin - it's on Warner. You can't be that careles with the ball - and you can't hold onto it as long as Warner is. The QB competition between Warner and Manning was very tight, so Eli will play if Warner doesn't pick it up. That's an easy decision for the coach, I think.
Wes, AC: Are the Steelers a fraud? I just don't see how they have the talent to keep up w/ the top teams of the NFL.
Chris Mortensen: (11:21 AM ET ) You're off the mark. The Steelers have enough talent - their offensive line (left side, especially) is outstanding, they have a deep RB corps, their WRs are near the top of the league and they have a big, young QB with a lot of talent. On defense, I think there's some holes but there are some guys - like James Farrior - playing at a very high level. They also are playing like a "team" - very selfless.
Ricky (Knoxville, Tn): Is it true that the Falcons are installing some shotgun plays for Vick?
Chris Mortensen: (11:22 AM ET ) Yes, that's true.
Paul (Charlottesville): Are the Chargers playing above their potential or what? As a Broncos fan, I'm getting tired of looking over my shoulder at a team I thought would coast to last in the division. What are the chances that San Diego surpasses Denver and wins the AFC West?
Chris Mortensen: (11:24 AM ET ) I think the Chargers are dangerous. Marty Schottenheimer has found the right chemistry and they have the QB (Brees) playing at a high level. They have developed a Pro Bowl-caliber TE in gates, they may get better on offense when Tomlinson gets healthy. They have one heck of a coaching staff. And their schedule ain't bad. Sorry, you'll have to be uncomfortable, I think. The Chargers are a great story.
Rob Detroit: Hey Mort, great work! What do you think is the biggest problem with the Lions? Why can't they run the ball? Is it really the offensive line?
Chris Mortensen: (11:26 AM ET ) Gosh, I don't know. I think a running game is a coordination of line and backs and play-calling (sequencing & formation). It looks to me like they just haven't jelled, so let's see what happens in the second half. They can't make a run without the running game coming around.
AJ (Denver): Mort, could there be any truth to the NFL Network's rumor that Shanahan might go to Miami?
Chris Mortensen: (11:28 AM ET ) I have not heard that rumor. I can't fathom that happening. Now if it was Adam Schefter who reported it, I would have to give it some credence because he is a former longtime Broncos' beat man and he has great contacts there, especially with Shanahan. But it makes no sense, nor would I think that Pat Bowlen allow it. Plus, the Dolphins job is going to be a lot of work for someone - the offense has to be rebuilt and they have some real salary cap problems.
Troy (Buffalo): Is the lack of improvement of Kyle Boller affecting Jim Fassell's value as a head coach? Should his name be discussed as a top candidate over others for open positions???
Chris Mortensen: (11:29 AM ET ) First of all, you hire a head coach. You don't hire for "offense" or quarterback. Plus, Boller is improving, though the jury is out. Let's see how Kyle does when he gets Ogden and Heap back. But, yes, Fassel should be considered as a top candidate for any job. I really believe that.
Jon, Miami: Do the Dolphins have to wait till the end of the season to interview coordinators of other teams?
Chris Mortensen: (11:31 AM ET ) Yes, they must wait until after the regular season to interview NFL assistants. And they get only during the wild card week to interview playoff coordinators / assistants. They are free to interview college guys and a guy like Fassel is free to interview after Jan. 1 - his contract is designed that way - even if the Ravens make the playoffs.
Chris Mortensen: (11:32 AM ET ) Mesage to Matt: Quit repeating your question. It's basically already been answered.
Derek (Cleveland): I believe the Shanahan rumor was him going to the U of FLA...not Miami.
Chris Mortensen: (11:33 AM ET ) Thanks. I have heard that one and Shanahan has said he's not interested. But I have to check on the other "rumor."
Troy (Buffalo): Can Drew Bledsoe be a backup? Losman is the future of the Bills and I am wondering what happens to Drew after this season...Could Drew be possible trade bait? Or do you think he accepts a backup role?
Chris Mortensen: (11:34 AM ET ) I think Bledsoe might surprise people - if the bills get this running game going, then Bledsoe is still a pretty good QB, especially as young Lee Evans learns how to play in this league. But I do think Drew will accept a backup role when the time is right. That may be in 2005 - or perhaps in 2006.
AJ (Denver): No, it was Schefter last night on the NFL Network and it was Miami. They are all over it locally today. Like Mort the only reason I even thought twice about it is Schefter -- he predicted the Portis and Bailey deal.
Chris Mortensen: (11:35 AM ET ) There you go. I still doubt it will happen, but Schefter's reporting it makes it credible.
Matt (St. Louis): Mort--How do you see the MN RB situation playing out? Will O. Smith be the starter and get most of the carries, or will they use a group approach? Thanks!
Chris Mortensen: (11:36 AM ET ) I think Onterrio Smith will be the featured back with Michael Bennett running out of some spread formations; Moe Williams and Melwelde Moore will get a few carries.
Mark (Stamford): Mort, is Gibbs ever going to sit Brunell? Was his line 58 yards passing last week vs. Detroit? Something like that.
Chris Mortensen: (11:38 AM ET ) Gibbs seems very committed to Brunell. He was adamant with the Washington media that he should be blamed for the lack of passing last Sunday - that he (Gibbs) decided to make it a ground game. I think this story won't go away.
Bob (Chicago): The Chiefs and Saints are two pretty inconsistent teams, do you see either of them showing up this weekend?
Chris Mortensen: (11:39 AM ET ) I still hold out hope for the Chiefs; I see little hope for the Saints. They are really a disappointment.
Paul (Milwaukee, WI): Do you see anyone being able to stop the Steelers at this point? Is there anyone in the AFC that can really challenge them?
Chris Mortensen: (11:42 AM ET ) Well, it's only midseason. remember, the Chiefs were hot at this point, too. I think the AFC so really tough. Very deep. I think 14 of of the 16 teams in the AFC are pretty good, or getting better. I only have real doubts about Miami and Oakland. My point being, don't get too smug. Long way to go, but you have to like what you see with the Steelers.
Dave (Dallas): Hey Paul in Milwaukee: How about the Ravens who already beat up on the Steelers? Come on Mort give that Nasty Defense some love....
Chris Mortensen: (11:43 AM ET ) I think the Ravens are going to very tough to beat in the second half of the season.
Frox (Hanover, PA): Mort - Why do so many people rank the Ravens so low when they have the number 1 defense (scoring) in the NFL and score more points with their defense and special teams than any team in the league? The Colts have a top offense, but their D is at the bottom. The Ravens have a top defense, offense at the bottom. Both are 5-3 yet most think the Colts are the better team. Why?
Chris Mortensen: (11:45 AM ET ) Probably because most NFL followers - fans and media - are offensive-oriented. It's probably something like, Peyton Manning vs. Kyle Boller. But you have a very good point because it's pretty much a given that you must have a top-10 defense to win the big one.
George Buffalo, ny: Randy Moss, what's his status?
Chris Mortensen: (11:45 AM ET ) Moss won't be playing against Green Bay this week.
beth, north lauderdale, florida: i amin a fantasy football league and lately the game have been so unpredicable that i have no idea how to put in my line-up...any suggestions>
Chris Mortensen: (11:46 AM ET ) Just flip a coin on your guys. You'll do better that way.
Joe (greenville,sc): Alot of panther fans think its time for caroline to find new coordinators, what do you think???
Chris Mortensen: (11:48 AM ET ) I think that's ridiculous. They are the same coordinators who got you to the Super Bowl last year. In the Panthers' case, it's just a fact - too many bigtime injuries. Also, the decimation of the offensive line combined with the injuries to Davis/Foster/Smith has also hurt the defense - because O-coordinator Dan Henning is one of the best at managing the clock and helping out the defense.
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada: The Bucs are flying under the radar screen Mort, written off, but look out!!
Chris Mortensen: (11:49 AM ET ) I agree! If the Bucs beat the Falcons this week, watch out. Look at the NFC - I have a feeling the Bucs will make the playoffs. But they can't have a whole ot of injuries in the second half of the season.
Steve (SF, CA): Mort, long suffering Fins fan here! Don't you think most improtant hiring that Huzeinga should condier is Pres./GM? SHould he first look at Scott Pioli in NE?
Chris Mortensen: (11:51 AM ET ) I do think hiring the right guy to lead the front office and the organization should be the first priority. Pioli is a guy that any franchise should look at, if they're looking to find that Pres/GM type. There are others, too.
Chad (LR, Ark): Why don't the Colts run the ball more? It seems to me if your defense isn't very good, you would want them to stay off the field.
Chris Mortensen: (11:53 AM ET ) You didn't pay attention Monday night, did you? The Colts actually ran more times (31) than they passed (29) - at least I think that's right. I know Peyton Manning pushed the idea that the team has to have more balance in order to help the defense. That did happen Monday night.
Joe (San Antonio TX): Hey Mort!! Should the Cowboys draft a QB with one of the two 1st round picks next year?? They should have a plan B incase Drew Henson fails IMO, what do you think???
Chris Mortensen: (11:54 AM ET ) Only if there is a first-round QB worthy of a shot. But I think they will use their picks to get bigger and better on defense. Their draft will be dictated by their success on the free agent market next March, too.
Tom (Boston): Why in the world would the pats allow pioli to leave, especially to a division rival.
Chris Mortensen: (11:56 AM ET ) I don't think they would have the option to block him because Pioli does not have the "final authority" or "decision-making" power in his contract - it belongs to Belichick. That would give some astute franchise a chance to compete for his services.
Derrick Blaylock (KC): Is Priest out this week and I am going to start or is LJ going to see the bulk of the carries?
Chris Mortensen: (11:58 AM ET ) Priest Holmes took a helmet righton the knee, so they're calling it a "strained" MCL. Holmes is a different guy. He may be the one guy who will play thru this, but I wonder how effective he will be, whether he can cut or not. I have a feeling it's going to be a weekend decision - check NFL Countdown on Sunday.
Chico, Monterrey: What do you think of the Clarett case? Is this going to explode?
Chris Mortensen: (12:00 PM ET ) I personally have a hard time giving Clarett any credibility. The guys who are making the allegations ll have shady character issues - and generally there is a paper trail on some of these charges. And nobody produced any paper. Also, some of the allegations may ahve sounded fishy but are, in fact, not NCAA violations. But maybe it will spark another investigation and we'll discover the truth.
Dan (Chicago, IL): Once again, no love for the Bears Mort. Why do you never recognize the job Lovie Smith and Ron Rivera are doing with this defense?
Chris Mortensen: (12:01 PM ET ) Here's a hug. Yes, I like what Smith and Rivera are doing with the defense, just as Liked what Dick Jauron and Greg Blache did with it last year. I think Terry Shea is making progress with the offense, too.
Mark (Boise, ID): Mort - why is there such a large difference in the contract dollars between the NFC games & the AFC games. Seems like CBS is getting a deal?
Chris Mortensen: (12:03 PM ET ) NFC teams are large market teams - New York Giants, Philadlehia, Washington, dallas, detroit....but the AFC is just flat out a better conference.
sean (pgh): i think LeBeau needs more props for the job he has done. this is the same defense as last year and this year has been far more productive!
Chris Mortensen: (12:03 PM ET ) I agree. Dick LeBeau has really made a difference.
Luke (New Orleans, LA): I think Priest should suit up this week! Come on even a one legged Runningback could crack 100+ yards on the Saints D.
Chris Mortensen: (12:04 PM ET ) You don't have Priest on your fantasy team do you?
Rick (Washington DC): Are the Bengals improving and do they have a shot at the playoffs
Chris Mortensen: (12:06 PM ET ) The Bengals are improving, absolutely. Their defense has settled down some and they seemed to have found themselves on offense. Again, the AFC is deep and I see them falling a little short of the playoffs. But that's why they play the games!
Chris Mortensen: (12:06 PM ET ) I have to go. I am working on a little mid-season awards deal, so i hope to get that posted in a couple of hours or so. Thanks for your time again. All my best and God Bless!