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As part of FOXSports.com's Decision '08 preseason preview, we've set up our own "No Spin Zone."
FOX News show host Bill O'Reilly can consider it an homage or blatant rip-off. Of course, we prefer homage. But as the O'Reilly Factor front-man would say, that's our spin.
In the past month, representatives from every NFL team have raised eyebrows or generated eye rolls with some of their comments. FOXSports.com senior NFL Writer Alex Marvez has read between the lines and offered his take on what was said and what it actually means.
NFC East
Dallas
The spin: "Yes, he does." — Cowboys coach Wade Phillips when asked whether strong safety Roy Williams plays like a Pro Bowl performer, July 25.
Marvez's spin: Clearly, Phillips is standing up for a player who has faced criticism from both media and teammates because of his coverage skills and work ethic. Phillips, though, pointed out that Williams is doing something right to land in his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl last season. Still, expect the Cowboys to use Williams less in nickel and dime situations if Adam "Pacman" Jones gets reinstated and/or 2008 first-round draft pick Mike Jenkins develops quickly. That would allow the Cowboys to shift cornerback Anthony Henry inside to safety on passing downs.
Expect the Cowboys to use Roy Williams less in nickel and dime situations in the coming season. (Tony Gutierrez / Associated Press)
Washington
The spin: "I wish Miami the best. They could turn around to be the New Orleans Saints of 2006." — Commanders defensive end Jason Taylor after being traded by the Dolphins, July 21.
Marvez's spin: And I'll be doing the lambada on "Dancing With the Stars." Taylor deserves credit for handling his Dolphins departure with class after 11 seasons. But talking playoffs for a team overhauling its roster after a 1-15 campaign is laying it on thick.
Philadelphia
The spin: "We're talking about a Hall of Fame-caliber player." — Eagles president Joe Banner after signing running back Brian Westbrook to a six-year contract extension, Aug. 8.
Marvez's spin: Banner got caught up in hyperbole. While an outstanding talent, Westbrook didn't notch his first 1,000-yard rushing campaign until his fifth NFL season. Unless he produced at a high level well into his 30s, the 28-year-old Westbrook won't be getting serious consideration for Hall induction.
New York Giants
The spin: "I have to take care of myself. When I'm ready to go, everybody will know." — New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress on the ankle injury that has sidelined him through training camp, Aug. 10.
Marvez's spin: If the Giants would have taken care of Burress with a new contract, he might already be on the practice field.
NFC North
Green Bay
The spin: "I've been so focused on this training camp to get better, I've really been able to avoid all the stuff going on outside the building." — Aaron Rodgers, the day before fellow quarterback Brett Favre was traded, Aug. 5.
Marvez's spin: Riiight. Rodgers had flopped in practices and a team scrimmage while Favre waffled on whether he wanted to play for Green Bay. On the first night practice after Favre was traded, Rodgers connected on three deep passes with wide receiver James Jones. Coincidence? Hardly.
Minnesota
The spin: "I think I've always said that." — Vikings coach Brad Childress when asked amid the Favre saga whether Tarvaris Jackson was unequivocally his starting quarterback, July 15.
Marvez's spin: Maybe Minnesota really didn't have serious interest in Favre. Maybe tampering charges filed by the Packers charging improper contact scared off the Vikings even though an NFL investigation exonerated Minnesota. But there are those inside Packers headquarters who swear Minnesota was Favre's first choice and the Vikings were ready to reciprocate. In the big picture, the argument is moot since the Packers were never going to let Favre play for one of their top rivals. Jackson will have the chance to prove Minnesota made the right move in the Sept. 8 season-opener at Green Bay.
Detroit
The spin: "I think (Detroit fans) are going to like what they see." — Lions general manager Matt Millen on the 2008 season, July 22.
Marvez's spin: It's hard to take Millen too seriously with the Lions having a 31-81 record since his 2001 arrival. Millen is gambling that a more run-oriented offense and a defense now in its third season under head coach Rod Marinelli will end Detroit's losing way. We'll see.
Chicago
The spin: "The guy who ends up winning the position, we feel real good about him leading us where we want to go." — Bears coach Lovie Smith on the quarterback competition between Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton, July 22.
Marvez's spin: The cynic will sarcastically wonder where Smith wants his team to go in 2008, as Orton and Grossman inspire little confidence based on past history. But Smith isn't the only member of Bears management who feels the same way. General manager Jerry Angelo didn't enter the Brett Favre sweepstakes or address the quarterback position during the offseason. Grossman will start Saturday's game at Seattle after serving as Orton's backup in the preseason opener against Kansas City.
NFC West
Arizona
The spin: "Right now I don't want a deal. People might think I am being funny or saying it just to say it, but for me, I'm tired of it. I wash my hands of the whole situation." — Wide receiver Anquan Boldin after telling his agent to stop negotiating with Cardinals management for a new contract, July 24.
Marvez's spin: Boldin's frustration is evident, especially because he believes the Cardinals had promised him a new deal a la fellow wideout Larry Fitzgerald (four-year, $40 million extension in March). Boldin, though, can't be inflexible. He is under contract through 2010, severely limiting his leverage and the Cardinals showed no willingness to trade him this offseason. A new deal is likely if Boldin plays at a high level — provided he's willing to listen.
Seattle
The spin: "I don't want to offend him in any way, but it's business as usual. I don't think it's something we're thinking about or talking about. The nature of what we do, we lose teammates all the time. It's just a hard part of our business." — Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck's comments to The Oregonian on the retirement of coach Mike Holmgren at season's end, July 2008.
Marvez's spin: So far, Holmgren and the Seahawks have done a nice job minimizing the distractions that could stem from the former's imminent departure. The finality may even serve as a late-season boost if the Seahawks are struggling for a playoff spot. But on the flip side, things could get weird if Seattle falls out of postseason contention early with secondary coach Jim Mora waiting in the wings to take control.
San Francisco
The spin: "The information we are gathering right now is valuable. As I have said all along, I believe in all three guys." — 49ers coach Mike Nolan on his quarterback competition between J.T. O'Sullivan, Alex Smith and Shaun Hill, Aug. 9.
Marvez's spin: Let's see how much faith Nolan still has in September. All three quarterbacks failed to impress in San Francisco's preseason opener against Oakland, although Hill does have the excuse of working with reserves. Quarterback struggles were expected as Hill and Smith become comfortable with new offensive coordinator Mike Martz's pass-happy system. But if the 49ers ultimately don't improve the NFL's worst passing attack in two of the past three seasons, I believe Nolan will be seeking employment elsewhere in 2009.
St. Louis Rams
The spin: "We're going to do everything we can to do the right thing, whatever that is. That's the only thing we can do." — Rams owner Chip Rosenbloom to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch about the team's unsettled ownership situation, July 15.
Marvez's spin: The problem for Rams fans is that the "right thing" might be the sale of the team to a new owner without ties to St. Louis. The Rams also may be able to opt out of their stadium lease in 2016, which would clear the way for a move elsewhere like the Cardinals made in 1987. If St. Louis lost another NFL franchise, the Arch would slump.
NFC South
Tampa Bay
The spin: "I don't think any outside forces are going to affect this football team." — Buccaneers general manager Bruce Allen after Green Bay traded Favre to the New York Jets rather than Tampa Bay, Aug. 7.
Marvez's spin: Try telling that to your locker room should the Bucs not get sound play from Jeff Garcia (or any of the other 72 quarterbacks currently on the roster, for that matter). Allen insists the Packers never had any intention of trading Favre within the conference. But by speaking directly to Favre when he was being dangled, Allen has left himself open to second-guessing for not doing more to try and consummate a deal. The situation will only get uglier if Favre thrives with the Jets and Garcia — who jokingly called himself "Dead Man Walking" when trade talks were transpiring — can't shrug off being cast as Tampa Bay's second choice under center.
Carolina
The spin: "I think it's very fair. We had to do what's right for the team." — Panthers general manager Marty Hurney after the team issued a two-game suspension against wide receiver Steve Smith, Aug. 2.
Marvez's spin: What's right may not necessarily be best for the Panthers. Smith, who broke teammate Ken Lucas' nose during an in-practice fight, is Carolina's best offensive player and one of the NFL's top deep threats. If the Panthers lack offensive punch and lose their first two games, Hurney and coach John Fox will come under even more fire for not levying another form of punishment that would have allowed Smith to play. Still, give Hurney and Fox credit for making a decision in the interest of team unity even though both enter the season with tenuous job security.
New Orleans
The spin: "The people that know me as a person ... they'll tell you that I'm not as wild and rebellious as some people say. But that's the media." — Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey when asked what he felt was "misunderstood" about him, July 24.
Marvez's spin: Umm, Jeremy, the media didn't upload all those internet photos of you partying. Being shown on television pounding drinks inside a skybox during Super Bowl XLII didn't help your image either. But if the Saints had any concerns about Shockey's off-field behavior, they weren't enough to torpedo his recent acquisition from the New York Giants. Adding a talent like Shockey to an already high-powered offense could help the Saints make a serious playoff run — provided he doesn't spend too much time on Bourbon Street.
Atlanta
The spin: "It's a good competition." — Falcons rookie Matt Ryan on his battle for snaps with fellow quarterbacks Chris Redman, Joey Harrington and D.J. Shockley, Aug. 9.
Marvez's spin: Give Ryan brownie points for being gracious. There will only be a quarterback "competition" until Ryan is ready to start. That day may be coming soon. Ryan had an impressive debut in Saturday night's 20-17 loss to Jacksonville, completing nine of 15 passes for 133 yards and one touchdown.
AFC North
Baltimore
The spin: "Willis is our back, no question about it. But Ray is going to be a great complement to him." — Ravens coach John Harbaugh on running backs Willis McGahee and Ray Rice, Aug. 5.
Marvez spin: Even though he's still young (26) and ranked eighth in the NFL last season with 1,207 rushing yards, McGahee should be looking over his shoulder. McGahee doesn't have the same kind of home-run ability that Rice has flashed during his first NFL preseason. The Carroll County Times also reported Monday that McGahee will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. That may not bode well for the long term considering McGahee suffered a gruesome injury to that same knee in college.
Cincinnati
The spin: "It's good to have him back." — Bengals coach Marvin Lewis on wide receiver Chad Johnson, July 22.
Marvez spin: "Good" seems a bit strong. While he loves how Johnson can produce on the field, Lewis also knows all too well that "Ocho-Cinco" can become an even bigger detriment if his attitude goes south like it did this offseason. Lewis has to hope the "good" Johnson rears its head this season. Otherwise, a tenuous truce between Johnson and team management could disintegrate — along with Cincinnati's playoff hopes.
Chad Johnson's back, and Bengals coach Marvin Lewis says he couldn't be happier. (Andy Lyons / Getty Images)
Cleveland
The spin: "We have talent. If we get everyone on the same page, there's no limit to what we can do." — Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards, July 31.
Marvez spin: Offensively, it's hard to argue with Edwards considering the firepower and dominating offensive line that general manager Phil Savage has assembled. But the Browns aren't a lock to improve upon last season's 10-6 record. While the defense's front seven was greatly improved with the acquisitions of nose tackle Shaun Rogers and end Corey Williams, a young secondary could become a liability if the Browns aren't able to better pressure the quarterback. Coach Romeo Crennel also must guard against overconfidence by a team that enters the season surrounded by high public and media expectations.
Pittsburgh
The spin: "I have spent my entire life devoted to the Pittsburgh Steelers and the National Football League. I will do everything possible to work out a solution to ensure my father's legacy of keeping the Steelers in the Rooney family and in Pittsburgh for at least another 75 years." — Steelers chairman Dan Rooney in a released statement about the team's ownership situation, July 8.
Marvez spin: Notice no guarantees were made. The thought of the franchise being headed by someone other than Rooney and his son Art is as hard to fathom as a Steelers home game without Terrible Towels. But it could very well become reality unless Dan Rooney can buy control of the club from his four brothers. This has the potential to become an off-field distraction that second-year coach Mike Tomlin will have to deal with.
AFC South
Jacksonville
The spin: "At some point, you lose so much that you don't become as valuable. We're not there yet, but it's time to get into camp." — Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio on unsigned rookie defensive end Derrick Harvey, July 30.
Marvez spin: Del Rio's comments didn't serve their intended purpose, as Harvey's holdout continues. This is bad news for a team that traded up 18 spots in the first round to draft Harvey with the belief he could make an immediate impact as a pass rusher. An early-entry junior, Harvey needs all the preseason practice time he could get. The more training camp he misses, the greater the likelihood that Harvey may only be used initially in a limited capacity this season.
Houston
The spin: "He's had a really good camp ... It looks like he's getting ready for a big (season). I think all of us know we need a big one out of him." — Houston Texans coach Gary Kubiak on running back Ahman Green, Aug. 6.
Marvez spin: Getting too excited about Green in the preseason may lead to major disappointment. Four days after Kuibiak offered such high praise, Green tweaked his groin during the preseason opener against Denver. Despite his injury history, the Texans signed Green to a free-agent contract last offseason that included $12.5 million in the first two years. Green never fully recovered from a knee injury suffered in the 2007 season-opener and is 31-years-old entering this season. If Green can't stay healthy, the Texans need former Tennessee Titans starter Chris Brown or the unheralded Darius Walker to pick up the slack.
Indianapolis
The spin: "." — Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison.
Marvez spin: Mums the word from one of the NFL's all-time leading wideouts. Harrison is refusing to speak with the media about his recent return from a serious knee injury as well as his interviews with police regarding a May shooting in Philadelphia (he hasn't been charged). While he has always been reticent to address reporters, Harrison may chirp soon enough. Under NFL rules, Harrison will be subject to fines if he doesn't begin fulfilling his media obligations.
Tennessee
The spin: "He's confident, making good decisions and throwing with accuracy." — Titans coach Jeff Fisher on quarterback Vince Young, Aug. 7.
Marvez spin: Is Fisher talking about the same Young who threw nine touchdowns and 17 interceptions in 2007? We should know soon enough whether Fisher is merely trying to boost his confidence or Young really is making significant strides under new offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger.
AFC East
Miami
The spin: "We were told that it's a quarterback competition." — Dolphins quarterback John Beck on Miami's signing of Chad Pennington, Aug. 9.
Marvez spin: John, here's what Dolphins brass didn't tell you: You're only
competing for a third-string spot now. By adding Pennington and using a 2008 second-round pick on Chad Henne, it's clear a new administration doesn't care that Beck was drafted in the second round last year as Miami's "quarterback of the future." Beck will have to beat out journeyman Josh McCown to secure a roster spot.
New York Jets
The spin: "All of my preparation was going toward ... being the starting quarterback in '08. It is what it is. The positive is that I can take out of it is the opportunity to learn from Brett Favre." — Jets quarterback Kellen Clemens on the team's acquisition of Favre, Aug. 8.
Marvez spin: Within the past nine months, Clemens has squandered two chances to cement himself as a Jets starter. He may not get a third. Clemens also should hope he can develop a better rapport with Favre than Aaron Rodgers, who never spoke with his predecessor while the Green Bay quarterback drama was unfolding this offseason.
New England Patriots
The spin: "It seems like a very competitive group right now. Everyone is right in the mix." — Patriots coach Bill Belichick on the state of his secondary, July 28.
Marvez spin: When "everyone" was in the mix entering the preseason, that meant nobody had emerged as sure-fire replacements for free-agent departures Asante Samuel, Eugene Wilson and Randall Gay. Not much has changed since. This unit took another hit Saturday when safety/linebacker Tank Williams was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury. The Patriots must hope this isn't a repeat of 2006, when shaky secondary play helped doom New England in an AFC Championship game loss to Indianapolis.
Buffalo
The spin: "If I can continue to stay healthy, I'm definitely confident that I can make it back. I've got a lot of good years left in me." — Bills defensive tackle Marcus Stroud to the Associated Press, Aug. 1.
Marvez spin: Let's take it one season at a time, Marcus. Wracked by injuries and a steroid suspension the past two years, Stroud's slide from the ranks of elite interior linemen led to his offseason trade from Jacksonville to Buffalo. The 30-year-old Stroud has impressed in practice so far, but let's see if his motivation level remains as high at season's end.
AFC West
Denver
The spin: "We're not going to miss the playoffs." — Broncos coach Mike Shanahan on Denver radio station KKFN, Aug. 1.
Marvez spin: Maybe Shanahan thinks he's coaching the 1998 Broncos instead of the 2008 version. From a talent standpoint alone, Denver ranks third in the division behind San Diego and Oakland. The Broncos have serious questions at running back following Travis Henry's release, a rookie left tackle in Ryan Clady and their top wide receiver (Brandon Marshall) is suspended for the first three games. Defensively, the Broncos will be in big trouble up the middle if unproven linebacker Niko Koutouvides and defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson, a New York Jets castoff, don't come through. The only way Denver backs Shanahan's pledge is if quarterback Jay Cutler begins showing some Elway-esque talent in his third NFL season.
Oakland
The spin: "When you take this job you realize who the owner is and you realize most guys don't last very long. It is what it is." — Raiders coach Lane Kiffin when asked about his job security, July 24.
Marvez spin: What's remarkable about this statement is how Kiffin didn't try to sugarcoat his tempestuous relationship with owner Al Davis. Media accounts out of Oakland essentially categorize Kiffin as a glorified offensive coordinator lacking pull with both the front office and Rob Ryan's defensive coaching staff. Kiffin seems ready to enter the growing graveyard of former Raiders head coaches if this dysfunctional approach doesn't work.
San Diego
The spin: "There was so much hype last year and so much expectation. All training camp it was, 'Super Bowl,' and we weren't afraid to talk about it. I fell in that trap, too ... We have an understanding of what it really takes." — Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers comparing the past two preseasons, July 25.
Marvez spin: Rivers isn't blowing smoke. During two preseason visits I made to San Diego last preseason, I detected a sense of entitlement among some players who thought a 14-2 campaign in 2006 would automatically translate to similar success the next year. A 5-5 start brought the 2007 Chargers back to earth. This year's squad should better handle the hype.
Kansas City
The spin: "I told him just because we're going in this direction doesn't mean you can't win." — Chiefs coach Herm Edwards on his conversations with tight end Tony Gonzalez about the team's rebuilding process, July 28.
Marvez spin: What else can Edwards tell Gonzalez? The star tight end has never won a playoff game in 11 seasons with Kansas City. The Chiefs gutted their roster this offseason, and Brodie Croyle has yet to prove he's the answer at quarterback. At this point, hope is the only thing Edwards has to sell.
FOX News show host Bill O'Reilly can consider it an homage or blatant rip-off. Of course, we prefer homage. But as the O'Reilly Factor front-man would say, that's our spin.
In the past month, representatives from every NFL team have raised eyebrows or generated eye rolls with some of their comments. FOXSports.com senior NFL Writer Alex Marvez has read between the lines and offered his take on what was said and what it actually means.
NFC East
Dallas
The spin: "Yes, he does." — Cowboys coach Wade Phillips when asked whether strong safety Roy Williams plays like a Pro Bowl performer, July 25.
Marvez's spin: Clearly, Phillips is standing up for a player who has faced criticism from both media and teammates because of his coverage skills and work ethic. Phillips, though, pointed out that Williams is doing something right to land in his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl last season. Still, expect the Cowboys to use Williams less in nickel and dime situations if Adam "Pacman" Jones gets reinstated and/or 2008 first-round draft pick Mike Jenkins develops quickly. That would allow the Cowboys to shift cornerback Anthony Henry inside to safety on passing downs.
Expect the Cowboys to use Roy Williams less in nickel and dime situations in the coming season. (Tony Gutierrez / Associated Press)
Washington
The spin: "I wish Miami the best. They could turn around to be the New Orleans Saints of 2006." — Commanders defensive end Jason Taylor after being traded by the Dolphins, July 21.
Marvez's spin: And I'll be doing the lambada on "Dancing With the Stars." Taylor deserves credit for handling his Dolphins departure with class after 11 seasons. But talking playoffs for a team overhauling its roster after a 1-15 campaign is laying it on thick.
Philadelphia
The spin: "We're talking about a Hall of Fame-caliber player." — Eagles president Joe Banner after signing running back Brian Westbrook to a six-year contract extension, Aug. 8.
Marvez's spin: Banner got caught up in hyperbole. While an outstanding talent, Westbrook didn't notch his first 1,000-yard rushing campaign until his fifth NFL season. Unless he produced at a high level well into his 30s, the 28-year-old Westbrook won't be getting serious consideration for Hall induction.
New York Giants
The spin: "I have to take care of myself. When I'm ready to go, everybody will know." — New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress on the ankle injury that has sidelined him through training camp, Aug. 10.
Marvez's spin: If the Giants would have taken care of Burress with a new contract, he might already be on the practice field.
NFC North
Green Bay
The spin: "I've been so focused on this training camp to get better, I've really been able to avoid all the stuff going on outside the building." — Aaron Rodgers, the day before fellow quarterback Brett Favre was traded, Aug. 5.
Marvez's spin: Riiight. Rodgers had flopped in practices and a team scrimmage while Favre waffled on whether he wanted to play for Green Bay. On the first night practice after Favre was traded, Rodgers connected on three deep passes with wide receiver James Jones. Coincidence? Hardly.
Minnesota
The spin: "I think I've always said that." — Vikings coach Brad Childress when asked amid the Favre saga whether Tarvaris Jackson was unequivocally his starting quarterback, July 15.
Marvez's spin: Maybe Minnesota really didn't have serious interest in Favre. Maybe tampering charges filed by the Packers charging improper contact scared off the Vikings even though an NFL investigation exonerated Minnesota. But there are those inside Packers headquarters who swear Minnesota was Favre's first choice and the Vikings were ready to reciprocate. In the big picture, the argument is moot since the Packers were never going to let Favre play for one of their top rivals. Jackson will have the chance to prove Minnesota made the right move in the Sept. 8 season-opener at Green Bay.
Detroit
The spin: "I think (Detroit fans) are going to like what they see." — Lions general manager Matt Millen on the 2008 season, July 22.
Marvez's spin: It's hard to take Millen too seriously with the Lions having a 31-81 record since his 2001 arrival. Millen is gambling that a more run-oriented offense and a defense now in its third season under head coach Rod Marinelli will end Detroit's losing way. We'll see.
Chicago
The spin: "The guy who ends up winning the position, we feel real good about him leading us where we want to go." — Bears coach Lovie Smith on the quarterback competition between Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton, July 22.
Marvez's spin: The cynic will sarcastically wonder where Smith wants his team to go in 2008, as Orton and Grossman inspire little confidence based on past history. But Smith isn't the only member of Bears management who feels the same way. General manager Jerry Angelo didn't enter the Brett Favre sweepstakes or address the quarterback position during the offseason. Grossman will start Saturday's game at Seattle after serving as Orton's backup in the preseason opener against Kansas City.
NFC West
Arizona
The spin: "Right now I don't want a deal. People might think I am being funny or saying it just to say it, but for me, I'm tired of it. I wash my hands of the whole situation." — Wide receiver Anquan Boldin after telling his agent to stop negotiating with Cardinals management for a new contract, July 24.
Marvez's spin: Boldin's frustration is evident, especially because he believes the Cardinals had promised him a new deal a la fellow wideout Larry Fitzgerald (four-year, $40 million extension in March). Boldin, though, can't be inflexible. He is under contract through 2010, severely limiting his leverage and the Cardinals showed no willingness to trade him this offseason. A new deal is likely if Boldin plays at a high level — provided he's willing to listen.
Seattle
The spin: "I don't want to offend him in any way, but it's business as usual. I don't think it's something we're thinking about or talking about. The nature of what we do, we lose teammates all the time. It's just a hard part of our business." — Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck's comments to The Oregonian on the retirement of coach Mike Holmgren at season's end, July 2008.
Marvez's spin: So far, Holmgren and the Seahawks have done a nice job minimizing the distractions that could stem from the former's imminent departure. The finality may even serve as a late-season boost if the Seahawks are struggling for a playoff spot. But on the flip side, things could get weird if Seattle falls out of postseason contention early with secondary coach Jim Mora waiting in the wings to take control.
San Francisco
The spin: "The information we are gathering right now is valuable. As I have said all along, I believe in all three guys." — 49ers coach Mike Nolan on his quarterback competition between J.T. O'Sullivan, Alex Smith and Shaun Hill, Aug. 9.
Marvez's spin: Let's see how much faith Nolan still has in September. All three quarterbacks failed to impress in San Francisco's preseason opener against Oakland, although Hill does have the excuse of working with reserves. Quarterback struggles were expected as Hill and Smith become comfortable with new offensive coordinator Mike Martz's pass-happy system. But if the 49ers ultimately don't improve the NFL's worst passing attack in two of the past three seasons, I believe Nolan will be seeking employment elsewhere in 2009.
St. Louis Rams
The spin: "We're going to do everything we can to do the right thing, whatever that is. That's the only thing we can do." — Rams owner Chip Rosenbloom to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch about the team's unsettled ownership situation, July 15.
Marvez's spin: The problem for Rams fans is that the "right thing" might be the sale of the team to a new owner without ties to St. Louis. The Rams also may be able to opt out of their stadium lease in 2016, which would clear the way for a move elsewhere like the Cardinals made in 1987. If St. Louis lost another NFL franchise, the Arch would slump.
NFC South
Tampa Bay
The spin: "I don't think any outside forces are going to affect this football team." — Buccaneers general manager Bruce Allen after Green Bay traded Favre to the New York Jets rather than Tampa Bay, Aug. 7.
Marvez's spin: Try telling that to your locker room should the Bucs not get sound play from Jeff Garcia (or any of the other 72 quarterbacks currently on the roster, for that matter). Allen insists the Packers never had any intention of trading Favre within the conference. But by speaking directly to Favre when he was being dangled, Allen has left himself open to second-guessing for not doing more to try and consummate a deal. The situation will only get uglier if Favre thrives with the Jets and Garcia — who jokingly called himself "Dead Man Walking" when trade talks were transpiring — can't shrug off being cast as Tampa Bay's second choice under center.
Carolina
The spin: "I think it's very fair. We had to do what's right for the team." — Panthers general manager Marty Hurney after the team issued a two-game suspension against wide receiver Steve Smith, Aug. 2.
Marvez's spin: What's right may not necessarily be best for the Panthers. Smith, who broke teammate Ken Lucas' nose during an in-practice fight, is Carolina's best offensive player and one of the NFL's top deep threats. If the Panthers lack offensive punch and lose their first two games, Hurney and coach John Fox will come under even more fire for not levying another form of punishment that would have allowed Smith to play. Still, give Hurney and Fox credit for making a decision in the interest of team unity even though both enter the season with tenuous job security.
New Orleans
The spin: "The people that know me as a person ... they'll tell you that I'm not as wild and rebellious as some people say. But that's the media." — Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey when asked what he felt was "misunderstood" about him, July 24.
Marvez's spin: Umm, Jeremy, the media didn't upload all those internet photos of you partying. Being shown on television pounding drinks inside a skybox during Super Bowl XLII didn't help your image either. But if the Saints had any concerns about Shockey's off-field behavior, they weren't enough to torpedo his recent acquisition from the New York Giants. Adding a talent like Shockey to an already high-powered offense could help the Saints make a serious playoff run — provided he doesn't spend too much time on Bourbon Street.
Atlanta
The spin: "It's a good competition." — Falcons rookie Matt Ryan on his battle for snaps with fellow quarterbacks Chris Redman, Joey Harrington and D.J. Shockley, Aug. 9.
Marvez's spin: Give Ryan brownie points for being gracious. There will only be a quarterback "competition" until Ryan is ready to start. That day may be coming soon. Ryan had an impressive debut in Saturday night's 20-17 loss to Jacksonville, completing nine of 15 passes for 133 yards and one touchdown.
AFC North
Baltimore
The spin: "Willis is our back, no question about it. But Ray is going to be a great complement to him." — Ravens coach John Harbaugh on running backs Willis McGahee and Ray Rice, Aug. 5.
Marvez spin: Even though he's still young (26) and ranked eighth in the NFL last season with 1,207 rushing yards, McGahee should be looking over his shoulder. McGahee doesn't have the same kind of home-run ability that Rice has flashed during his first NFL preseason. The Carroll County Times also reported Monday that McGahee will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. That may not bode well for the long term considering McGahee suffered a gruesome injury to that same knee in college.
Cincinnati
The spin: "It's good to have him back." — Bengals coach Marvin Lewis on wide receiver Chad Johnson, July 22.
Marvez spin: "Good" seems a bit strong. While he loves how Johnson can produce on the field, Lewis also knows all too well that "Ocho-Cinco" can become an even bigger detriment if his attitude goes south like it did this offseason. Lewis has to hope the "good" Johnson rears its head this season. Otherwise, a tenuous truce between Johnson and team management could disintegrate — along with Cincinnati's playoff hopes.
Chad Johnson's back, and Bengals coach Marvin Lewis says he couldn't be happier. (Andy Lyons / Getty Images)
Cleveland
The spin: "We have talent. If we get everyone on the same page, there's no limit to what we can do." — Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards, July 31.
Marvez spin: Offensively, it's hard to argue with Edwards considering the firepower and dominating offensive line that general manager Phil Savage has assembled. But the Browns aren't a lock to improve upon last season's 10-6 record. While the defense's front seven was greatly improved with the acquisitions of nose tackle Shaun Rogers and end Corey Williams, a young secondary could become a liability if the Browns aren't able to better pressure the quarterback. Coach Romeo Crennel also must guard against overconfidence by a team that enters the season surrounded by high public and media expectations.
Pittsburgh
The spin: "I have spent my entire life devoted to the Pittsburgh Steelers and the National Football League. I will do everything possible to work out a solution to ensure my father's legacy of keeping the Steelers in the Rooney family and in Pittsburgh for at least another 75 years." — Steelers chairman Dan Rooney in a released statement about the team's ownership situation, July 8.
Marvez spin: Notice no guarantees were made. The thought of the franchise being headed by someone other than Rooney and his son Art is as hard to fathom as a Steelers home game without Terrible Towels. But it could very well become reality unless Dan Rooney can buy control of the club from his four brothers. This has the potential to become an off-field distraction that second-year coach Mike Tomlin will have to deal with.
AFC South
Jacksonville
The spin: "At some point, you lose so much that you don't become as valuable. We're not there yet, but it's time to get into camp." — Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio on unsigned rookie defensive end Derrick Harvey, July 30.
Marvez spin: Del Rio's comments didn't serve their intended purpose, as Harvey's holdout continues. This is bad news for a team that traded up 18 spots in the first round to draft Harvey with the belief he could make an immediate impact as a pass rusher. An early-entry junior, Harvey needs all the preseason practice time he could get. The more training camp he misses, the greater the likelihood that Harvey may only be used initially in a limited capacity this season.
Houston
The spin: "He's had a really good camp ... It looks like he's getting ready for a big (season). I think all of us know we need a big one out of him." — Houston Texans coach Gary Kubiak on running back Ahman Green, Aug. 6.
Marvez spin: Getting too excited about Green in the preseason may lead to major disappointment. Four days after Kuibiak offered such high praise, Green tweaked his groin during the preseason opener against Denver. Despite his injury history, the Texans signed Green to a free-agent contract last offseason that included $12.5 million in the first two years. Green never fully recovered from a knee injury suffered in the 2007 season-opener and is 31-years-old entering this season. If Green can't stay healthy, the Texans need former Tennessee Titans starter Chris Brown or the unheralded Darius Walker to pick up the slack.
Indianapolis
The spin: "." — Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison.
Marvez spin: Mums the word from one of the NFL's all-time leading wideouts. Harrison is refusing to speak with the media about his recent return from a serious knee injury as well as his interviews with police regarding a May shooting in Philadelphia (he hasn't been charged). While he has always been reticent to address reporters, Harrison may chirp soon enough. Under NFL rules, Harrison will be subject to fines if he doesn't begin fulfilling his media obligations.
Tennessee
The spin: "He's confident, making good decisions and throwing with accuracy." — Titans coach Jeff Fisher on quarterback Vince Young, Aug. 7.
Marvez spin: Is Fisher talking about the same Young who threw nine touchdowns and 17 interceptions in 2007? We should know soon enough whether Fisher is merely trying to boost his confidence or Young really is making significant strides under new offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger.
AFC East
Miami
The spin: "We were told that it's a quarterback competition." — Dolphins quarterback John Beck on Miami's signing of Chad Pennington, Aug. 9.
Marvez spin: John, here's what Dolphins brass didn't tell you: You're only
competing for a third-string spot now. By adding Pennington and using a 2008 second-round pick on Chad Henne, it's clear a new administration doesn't care that Beck was drafted in the second round last year as Miami's "quarterback of the future." Beck will have to beat out journeyman Josh McCown to secure a roster spot.
New York Jets
The spin: "All of my preparation was going toward ... being the starting quarterback in '08. It is what it is. The positive is that I can take out of it is the opportunity to learn from Brett Favre." — Jets quarterback Kellen Clemens on the team's acquisition of Favre, Aug. 8.
Marvez spin: Within the past nine months, Clemens has squandered two chances to cement himself as a Jets starter. He may not get a third. Clemens also should hope he can develop a better rapport with Favre than Aaron Rodgers, who never spoke with his predecessor while the Green Bay quarterback drama was unfolding this offseason.
New England Patriots
The spin: "It seems like a very competitive group right now. Everyone is right in the mix." — Patriots coach Bill Belichick on the state of his secondary, July 28.
Marvez spin: When "everyone" was in the mix entering the preseason, that meant nobody had emerged as sure-fire replacements for free-agent departures Asante Samuel, Eugene Wilson and Randall Gay. Not much has changed since. This unit took another hit Saturday when safety/linebacker Tank Williams was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury. The Patriots must hope this isn't a repeat of 2006, when shaky secondary play helped doom New England in an AFC Championship game loss to Indianapolis.
Buffalo
The spin: "If I can continue to stay healthy, I'm definitely confident that I can make it back. I've got a lot of good years left in me." — Bills defensive tackle Marcus Stroud to the Associated Press, Aug. 1.
Marvez spin: Let's take it one season at a time, Marcus. Wracked by injuries and a steroid suspension the past two years, Stroud's slide from the ranks of elite interior linemen led to his offseason trade from Jacksonville to Buffalo. The 30-year-old Stroud has impressed in practice so far, but let's see if his motivation level remains as high at season's end.
AFC West
Denver
The spin: "We're not going to miss the playoffs." — Broncos coach Mike Shanahan on Denver radio station KKFN, Aug. 1.
Marvez spin: Maybe Shanahan thinks he's coaching the 1998 Broncos instead of the 2008 version. From a talent standpoint alone, Denver ranks third in the division behind San Diego and Oakland. The Broncos have serious questions at running back following Travis Henry's release, a rookie left tackle in Ryan Clady and their top wide receiver (Brandon Marshall) is suspended for the first three games. Defensively, the Broncos will be in big trouble up the middle if unproven linebacker Niko Koutouvides and defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson, a New York Jets castoff, don't come through. The only way Denver backs Shanahan's pledge is if quarterback Jay Cutler begins showing some Elway-esque talent in his third NFL season.
Oakland
The spin: "When you take this job you realize who the owner is and you realize most guys don't last very long. It is what it is." — Raiders coach Lane Kiffin when asked about his job security, July 24.
Marvez spin: What's remarkable about this statement is how Kiffin didn't try to sugarcoat his tempestuous relationship with owner Al Davis. Media accounts out of Oakland essentially categorize Kiffin as a glorified offensive coordinator lacking pull with both the front office and Rob Ryan's defensive coaching staff. Kiffin seems ready to enter the growing graveyard of former Raiders head coaches if this dysfunctional approach doesn't work.
San Diego
The spin: "There was so much hype last year and so much expectation. All training camp it was, 'Super Bowl,' and we weren't afraid to talk about it. I fell in that trap, too ... We have an understanding of what it really takes." — Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers comparing the past two preseasons, July 25.
Marvez spin: Rivers isn't blowing smoke. During two preseason visits I made to San Diego last preseason, I detected a sense of entitlement among some players who thought a 14-2 campaign in 2006 would automatically translate to similar success the next year. A 5-5 start brought the 2007 Chargers back to earth. This year's squad should better handle the hype.
Kansas City
The spin: "I told him just because we're going in this direction doesn't mean you can't win." — Chiefs coach Herm Edwards on his conversations with tight end Tony Gonzalez about the team's rebuilding process, July 28.
Marvez spin: What else can Edwards tell Gonzalez? The star tight end has never won a playoff game in 11 seasons with Kansas City. The Chiefs gutted their roster this offseason, and Brodie Croyle has yet to prove he's the answer at quarterback. At this point, hope is the only thing Edwards has to sell.