NFL/NCAA (American Football)

[Sylar]

This is going to be a long night...

Looks like Gronkowski is out for a few plays at least and Woodhead also injured.

We're going nowhere fast at the minute and Houston are playing well - that was some sack...

[Gatecrasher]

This is going to be a long night...

Looks like Gronkowski is out for a few plays at least and Woodhead also injured.

We're going nowhere fast at the minute and Houston are playing well - that was some sack...
Their D is playing well but they aren't producing much offence either.

Pats 7-3 Texans

[Sylar]

God, I love our hurry-up offense!

TD New England :thumbsup:

[Sylar]

They've really struggled on third down so far.

Pleased with our defense to this point.

[Sylar]

FG from Gotskowski makes it 10-3 NE.

[Sylar]

Stunning pass from Brady to Welker followed by a lovely screen to Vereen for the TD.

New England 17-3 Houston

[Gatecrasher]

That was some throw from Brady to Welker now 17-3. This is looking a bit easy for NE.

[Sylar]

That was some throw from Brady to Welker now 17-3. This is looking a bit easy for NE.

I thought the same thing in the Seattle - Arizona game in the first half and look what happened.

We certainly look like we're finding a wee bit of a stride right enough :aok:

[Gatecrasher]

I thought the same thing in the Seattle - Arizona game in the first half and look what happened.

We certainly look like we're finding a wee bit of a stride right enough :aok:
Now Foster gets going :greengrin
TD Texans, Foster

[Sylar]

Can't help but feel a little screwed over by that call. He clearly wasn't over from the right side field camera.

[Gatecrasher]

Texans have another short field before HT

[Sylar]

Can we change the zebras at half time?!

Jesus wept.

[Sylar]

Time was UP!

The replay clearly showed the whistle didn't go off until it hit 0:00!

[Gatecrasher]

55 yard FG makes it 17-13, poor end to the half from NE

[Sylar]

Poor end yes but the officials didn't help!

Very rare that I feel we've been screwed over but 2 genuine grievances in the last 2 minutes.

[Haymaker]

Time was UP!

The replay clearly showed the whistle didn't go off until it hit 0:00!

:agree: Shocking.

Cant believe we have allowed two huge returns. We need to turn up the heat here.

[Gatecrasher]

:agree: Shocking.

Cant believe we have allowed two huge returns. We need to turn up the heat here.
I wasn't sure about either decision but a good chance for a TD right after HT

TD NE 24-13

[Sylar]

That's a good response. Superb power from Hernandez.

[Haymaker]

That's a good response. Superb power from Hernandez.

Guy is great, lines up in so many positions and has the skill, power and intelligence to be a great. :agree:

EDIT: That was a much better kick, dont allow them a return!

[Gatecrasher]

That's a good response. Superb power from Hernandez.
I bet your going mental right now

[Sylar]

FFS

This is ridiculous.

[Haymaker]

Forward progess?! WTF?

[Gatecrasher]

FFS

This is ridiculous.


Forward progess?! WTF?
Strange one :agree:

[Sylar]

Absolutely shocking call from the officials.

What a hit that was on the punt return!

[Haymaker]

Strange one :agree:

Never heard that one before.

[Sylar]

Never heard that one before.

It's a valid rule but there's no way you can declare forward progress as soon as the player is hit!

Brady really can't scramble.

[Haymaker]

It's a valid rule but there's no way you can declare forward progress as soon as the player is hit!

Brady really can't scramble.

Exactly, how can he get that call? He gets slammed and pushed back and fumbles before he hits the ground? I have had a few to be fair so I may be a little fuzzy with the rules sometimes tonight!

[Haymaker]

NINKOVICH! :thumbsup:

[Gatecrasher]

Schaub throws an INT.

[Sylar]

NINKOVICH! :thumbsup:

Hang on a second - the referees are having a discussion off camera about a stray squirrel which might have strayed offside....

[Sylar]

I presume Gronkowski is done?!

Hope he hasn't broken the same arm again!

[Sylar]

Superb! :thumbsup:

[Sylar]

TD New England - Lloyd :thumbsup:

New England 31-13 Houston

[Haymaker]

I presume Gronkowski is done?!

Hope he hasn't broken the same arm again!

Patriots on twitter have annouced he is out for the game. His arm isnt fully healed and no point in doing additional damage.

TOUCHDOWN!

[Gatecrasher]

31-13 should be game over, Houston haven't shown enough for me to think they will make a Seattle type comeback.

[Haymaker]

Hang on a second - the referees are having a discussion off camera about a stray squirrel which might have strayed offside....

Pesky Squirrels...

[Gatecrasher]

I was going to say, that didn't look like a 1st down to me

[Haymaker]

Patriots Challenging the 1st down call...

Lost it. Bollocks.

[Sylar]

Can't say I have any issues with that call. His arm didn't hit the ground and he looked over :agree:

[Gatecrasher]

Can't say I have any issues with that call. His arm didn't hit the ground and he looked over :agree:
The initial replays it didn't look like he got it but on the one they just showed he just got it :greengrin

TD Pats! 38-13 definitely game over now

[Haymaker]

Vereen! BOOM! TOUCHDOWN! :thumbsup:

[Sylar]

Not game over yet. They still have a Manning :greengrin

[Haymaker]

Not game over yet. They still have a Manning :greengrin

What is our problem with stopping players named Manning?!:cb

[Sylar]

Looks like a waste of a challenge to me but the way the decisions are going...

[Sylar]

Un-f***ing-believable.

[Haymaker]

Un-f***ing-believable.

Yep. The zebras are not in our favour tonight.

[Gatecrasher]

38-20

[Sylar]

Good punt from Mesko.

Need to sharpen up here, despite the healthy lead.

[Sylar]

At least we know what Jets fans do once their team are eliminated from the regular season - they officiate postseason NFL games :wink:

This is absolutely pathetic.

[Haymaker]

At least we know what Jets fans do once their team are eliminated from the regular season - they officiate postseason NFL games :wink:

This is absolutely pathetic.

I would laugh if it wasnt so true... :wink:

[Haymaker]

Housten going for 2... and make it.

28-38 with 5.11 to go.

[Sylar]

Housten going for 2... and make it.

28-38 with 5.11 to go.

Classic Patriots. Houston will end up with a shot to win it in the dying seconds...

[Gatecrasher]

TD Texans on 4th down ang get a 2 point conversion now 38-28

Pats get the onside kick

[Haymaker]

NINKOVICH! :thumbsup:

[Sylar]

Thank Christ for Ninkovich.

[Sylar]

Wow...to what do we owe the pleasure?!

[Haymaker]

A call goes our way...

[Sylar]

We're going to need to do some serious work through the week here to be ready for Baltimore who will be pumped up and ready for us.

If we can hang on for the next 2 minutes...

[Sylar]

Gronkowski's arm broken again.

FFS.

[Gatecrasher]

We're going to need to do some serious work through the week here to be ready for Baltimore who will be pumped up and ready for us.

If we can hang on for the next 2 minutes...
The Gronk has broken his arm as well.

41-28 now

[Sylar]

That should just about do it:

New England 41-28 Houston

[Haymaker]

Gronk is out but he has been away for most of the season... Disappointing but we can do it.:agree:

Goskowski puts the Patriots 41-28 with 1.14 left.

[Sylar]

Shipping up to Boston in the background - lovely :greengrin

[Gatecrasher]

That's it! Well done guys. Good luck next week. I'm off to bed

[Sylar]

Game over :thumbsup:

If you'd said to me after 8 weeks we'd be hosting the AFC Championship game, I'd have laughed at you!

Improvement needed before the Ravens come calling but yet another AFC Championship game :agree:

[Haymaker]

Great win, next week is tough but it is on!

Brady moves to 17 post season wins to be number 1 and the Patriots move to 14-3 for post season games at Foxboro. Tied with Green Bay. :thumbsup:

Also, someone has said to me tonight that on losing last night Peyton Manning has lost the most playoff games by a QB ever? Is that true?

[Gatecrasher]

What a weekend that was, so we have:

NFC - 49ers @ Falcons
AFC - Ravens @ Patriots

I think the AFC game is a 1 AM job i think I'll miss that because I have work.

I have been reading the Packers Forum and I'm glad to say they have similar concerns to myself in regards to the D stopping the run and not being effective enough stopping teams on 3rd Down. A lot even calling for Capers to be Fired. All this means to me is my understanding of the game is improving beyond the basics now and I'm reading the game a bit better (Hopefully).

My predictions for next week are The 49ers will beat the Falcons though the game will be really good to watch and the Patriots will beat the Ravens for a 49ers V Patriots Superbowl.

I think the 49ers because they seem to be a really explosive team on Offence and I think they will concede some TD's but they just had that we'll score more than you if we thing going on against GB.

I think the Patriots will beat the Ravens because they have a settled Offence that can pick up the pace at any time. The Ravens are a good team but I dont think their Offence has enough to take them much further, they dont have many good receivers and there will be a point where they cant rely on the run towards the end of the game.

Of course both games could go either way but those are my predictions.

[DarrenSQH]

I think the Patriots will beat the Ravens because they have a settled Offence that can pick up the pace at any time. The Ravens are a good team but I dont think their Offence has enough to take them much further, they dont have many good receivers and there will be a point where they cant rely on the run towards the end of the game.



Ravens receivers are pretty good. Boldin and Torrey Smith are excellent. Pitta at te is ok. The rest are ok too. Think its more down to Flacco not being as good as Brady which is why the Patriots have the better Offense.

[Sylar]

Ravens receivers are pretty good. Boldin and Torrey Smith are excellent. Pitta at te is ok. The rest are ok too. Think its more down to Flacco not being as good as Brady which is why the Patriots have the better Offense.

Agree with this Darren though Flacco has improved the past few seasons and made some clutch passes against Denver.

Their main weapon is obviously Rice and our run defense looked pretty good (for the most part) at stopping Foster.

My concern is their defense and how hard they'll make life for us getting going. We have an array of weapons despite Gronkowski's absence in Welker, Hernandez, Woodhead, Vereen and Ridley but it's whether or not our offensive line can provide Brady with the opportunities to find receivers and open gaps for our run game.

[James.]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zce-QT7MGSE

(For those of us with no playoff interests)

[hibsbollah]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zce-QT7MGSE

(For those of us with no playoff interests)

Youve got an orange peanut. An orange peanut?

:hilarious

[James.]

Youve got an orange peanut. An orange peanut?

:hilarious

:greengrin

Peyton Manning's potion cracks me up for some reason.

[Just_Jimmy]

Ravens have a monster deep threat in torry smith and flacco is leathal with the deep ball. Pats secondary has been ropey at times this year so who knows.

I think it will be a niners v ravens superbowl.

[Sergio sledge]

Anyone seen this story? http://m.guardian.co.uk/sport/2013/jan/17/manti-teo-girlfriend-hoax-notre-dame

very odd, would seem inconceivable that he wasn't in on it, but wasn't there a hearts fan on .net years ago who pretended that he had a terminal illness and had died? Suppose it would be pretty easy to be taken in by it all.

[DarrenSQH]

Anyone seen this story? http://m.guardian.co.uk/sport/2013/jan/17/manti-teo-girlfriend-hoax-notre-dame

very odd, would seem inconceivable that he wasn't in on it, but wasn't there a hearts fan on .net years ago who pretended that he had a terminal illness and had died? Suppose it would be pretty easy to be taken in by it all.

If he made it up then what an idiot and a weirdo.

If he was taken in by it what an idiot and a weirdo. How can you have a girlfriend since 09 you havent met?

It all doesnt add up at all. I think he made it up, he clearly has a few issues.

[Sylar]

If he made it up then what an idiot and a weirdo.

If he was taken in by it what an idiot and a weirdo. How can you have a girlfriend since 09 you havent met?

It all doesnt add up at all. I think he made it up, he clearly has a few issues.

I knew a guy at Uni who met an American girl online. They "dated" for 2 years and he eventually proposed, having never actually met her.

They're now together and living in the USA after he torched all of his bridges and became a possession of this woman (she's incredibly weird).

HE certainly had a few issues...

[Gatecrasher]

I thought this was quite interesting, a bit of eye candy as well :greengrin


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N4q5Ac0Myw

[Gatecrasher]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zce-QT7MGSE

(For those of us with no playoff interests)
:hilarious


Ravens receivers are pretty good. Boldin and Torrey Smith are excellent. Pitta at te is ok. The rest are ok too. Think its more down to Flacco not being as good as Brady which is why the Patriots have the better Offense.

I think they are decent I just dont think they will have enough to beat NE. That hurry up Offense NE have is pretty quick, I thought Oregon were fast :greengrin

[Calvin]

Disappointed to lose Gus Bradley as our DC but can't begrudge him moving up to Head Coach at the Jags. Dan Quinn isn't a bad replacement.

[HibsMax]

Pats vs 9ers in the Superbowl. We got our asses handed to us by the Ravens a few seasons ago. It might be Ray Lewis' final season in the NFL but it won't end with a trip to the Superbowl IMO. Pats have a suspect secondary but I think they're pretty solid everywhere else.

As for Atlanta, even though my wife is a BC grad I still don't really like / rate them. I would love to have them in the Superbowl rather than the 9ers (assuming we get there of course).

[Haymaker]

Championship game day! :thumbsup:

Falcons v Patriots for the Superbowl!

[hibsbollah]

Youve got to fancy a Patriots 49ers Superbowl, theyve been consistently the most powerful two teams over the season IMO.

But on the other hand I wouldnt be massively surprised if the Ravens caused an upset, due to Flaccos recent form and tge Ray Lewis thing.

[Haymaker]

tge Ray Lewis thing.

To be fair it does have "Fairy tale ending" written all over it. I hope not though! :greengrin

[NOLA]

49ers will rip atlanta a new one methinks :pray: while i'd like the see the ravens win later on, should be a good nights entertainment :greengrin

[Gatecrasher]

Good start for the Falcons

[hibsbollah]

Good article about the read option offense that so many NFL teams are running this season. Explains what the QB is doing from a decision making point of view.

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/20/sports/football/nfc-49ers-colin-kaepernick-takes-nevada-offense-to-big-stage.html?ref=gregbishop&_r=1&

[hibsbollah]

Great start for Atlanta, 7-0.

[Sylar]

Really don't know what to think ahead of tonight - part of me is confident and part of me thinks we'll come up short.

Enjoying the Falcons - 49ers game just now but fancy either will comfortably deal with us or the Ravens in the Superbowl.

[hibsbollah]

10-0 now. Falcons started off just like this against Seattle last week, controlling the clock with short quick passes.

[Sylar]

Kaepernick having very little joy so far. Superb pass rush from the Falcons so far and they've also contained Gore incredibly well...

[Gatecrasher]

10-0 now. Falcons started off just like this against Seattle last week, controlling the clock with short quick passes.
they are playing very well :agree:

[Sylar]

Wow. Superb throw from Ryan and a great catch from Jones.

Falcons look red-hot.

17-0 - under review, but not a hope they'll turn that around.

[Sylar]

Confirmed TD.

Atlanta 17-0 San Francisco

49ers need to get something going and quickly.

[Sylar]

James rushes in for San Francisco.

17-7

[hibsbollah]

Nice patient drive there :agree:

[Gatecrasher]

This is living up to the hype so far :thumbsup:

[Sylar]

San Francisco finding a bit of rhythm now.

Was just about to ask if CK was injured as he hadn't ran with the ball yet....I guess not :greengrin

[NOLA]

they are playing very well :agree: naw, their still *****.

[Sylar]

TD San Francisco! 17-14 - impressive resolve to come from 17-0 down on the road!

[hibsbollah]

This feels EXACTLY like last weeks game!

[Sylar]

Jones and White having all sorts of success in the 49ers secondary.

It scares me to think what they'd do against our pass defense...

[Sylar]

TD Falcons - Gonzalez

Atlanta 24-14 San Francisco

[Sylar]

Atlanta 24-21 San Francisco: Gore with the TD on the 49ers opening drive.

[Sylar]

49ers pick off Ryan.

That could be huge...

[Sylar]

Akers misses from 38 yards - still 24-21 and Ryan off the hook!

[Sylar]

Another turnover from Atlanta.

Terrible handling from Ryan.

[hibsbollah]

Massive play there on the fumble.

Dont like the 49ers much but rather them than Atlanta...

[Sylar]

Absolutely shocking call from the officials. No way can that constitute "roughing the passer".

[hibsbollah]

Absolutely shocking call from the officials. No way can that constitute "roughing the passer".

The usual nonsense this season :grr:

[Sylar]

HUGE stop and turnover by Atlanta.

[hibsbollah]

Get in! 27-24 sf

[Sylar]

Looks a good catch to me...

[Gatecrasher]

Looks a good catch to me...

And it was, and it was worth it just to see the SF coach go nuts :greengrin

[Sylar]

Careful clock management and a TD here should see the Dirty Birds into the Superbowl...

[Sylar]

4th and 4 - all or nothing now for Atlanta...

[Sylar]

San Francisco going to the big dance...****.

[Gatecrasher]

Well that SF in the superbowl

[Sylar]

Hail Mary for the win...

[Sylar]

Pleased I managed to predict the NFC representatives at the start of the season...having said that, I'd fancy the 49ers to destroy either New England or Baltimore...

[hibsbollah]

Pleased I managed to predict the NFC representatives at the start of the season...having said that, I'd fancy the 49ers to destroy either New England or Baltimore...

A pessimist is never disappointed :greengrin

I tipped a Baltimore Chicago superbowl back in September...

[NOLA]

well that was enjoyable in the end, couldnt watch it lol now onto the ravens / pats, for the purists id like a 49rs/pats SB but id like to see if flacco can prove it when it matters, after all hes wanting a new contract, good time to show what your made of super joe

[Falkirk Hibby]

Pleased I managed to predict the NFC representatives at the start of the season...having said that, I'd fancy the 49ers to destroy either New England or Baltimore...

Yep. The 49ers scare me, especially against the Patriots secondary. Of course, the Pats have to get there first.

[Sylar]

Good to get points on the board but sometimes that hurry-up offense frustrates a little as that play suggested a lack of thought and attention.

New England 3-0 Baltimore.

[Sylar]

Yep. The 49ers scare me, especially against the Patriots secondary. Of course, the Pats have to get there first.

Indeed, and taking nothing for granted. This is going to be a close game!

Welcome to the thread by the way :aok:

[Haymaker]

Come on the Pats! :thumbsup:

[Falkirk Hibby]

Indeed, and taking nothing for granted. This is going to be a close game!

Welcome to the thread by the way :aok:

Thank you. :aok: I think it's least a year since i've been on. Slow start but offence looks to be clicking.

[Haymaker]

Thank you. :aok: I think it's least a year since i've been on. Slow start but offence looks to be clicking.

In Brady we trust. :aok:

[Sylar]

Frustrating so far in all honesty.

Managing to find plays but not putting them together very well. :agree:

[Falkirk Hibby]

Good return by Welker. Been very scrappy so far, maybe the wind is playing a factor?

[Sylar]

Losing Talib would be a huge blow for us...

[Haymaker]

Both teams are finding it hard... which is what you would expect at this point in the season!

[Sylar]

:faf: - apparently we Scots don't like the Patriots...

Never mind the fact there's a huge Scottish ex-pat population in the New England area!

[Sylar]

Our paperthin defense is embarrassing.

[Sylar]

TD Ravens. Shocking defending.

7-3 Baltimore

[Falkirk Hibby]

Our paperthin defense is embarrassing.

All too easy. :rolleyes:

[Haymaker]

Terrible D there but there is plenty time left in this ball game! :aok:

[Sylar]

Good response - TD New England: Welker.

10-7

[Haymaker]

Saw that all day long! Welker for a TOUCHDOWN! :thumbsup:

[Falkirk Hibby]

No flashy plays, just a simple and effective drive. More encouraging now.

[Sylar]

I love Rob Ninkovich...

[Falkirk Hibby]

SACK! Good stop "D".

[Haymaker]

BIG sack there! Leaving us with good field position.

[Haymaker]

I love Rob Ninkovich...

Got a bit of a crush too..! :greengrin

[Falkirk Hibby]

Brady tackled by the official! :wink:

[DarrenSQH]

:faf: - apparently we Scots don't like the Patriots...

Never mind the fact there's a huge Scottish ex-pat population in the New England area!

I would much prefer Boston patriots to New England. Don't like the name.

So happy the falcons are out and aren't getting to the big game in our dome.

[Haymaker]

I love Danny Woodhead.

[Sylar]

Brady didn't even get a card for that knee-high tackle...oh, hang on :greengrin

New England 13-7 Baltimore at the half after a FG from Gotskowski

[Haymaker]

Brady didn't even get a card for that knee-high tackle...oh, hang on :greengrin



Will the compliance officer get involved? :greengrin

[Falkirk Hibby]

Very un-Patriot like mess up with the clock management there. Could have had one or two shots for the TD. Oh well, will take the FG.

[Falkirk Hibby]

I would much prefer Boston patriots to New England. Don't like the name.

So happy the falcons are out and aren't getting to the big game in our dome.

They were the Boston Patriots until they moved to Foxboro in 1971 (I think), which is about 25 miles from Boston.

[Sylar]

Argh - another frustrating drive. That should be a bread and butter catch for Welker!

[Sylar]

Another ****ing embarrassing defensive play as they turn a sure 10 yard loss into a first down.

Not good enough.

[Haymaker]

We need a big stop right now or a turnover.

[Sylar]

I'd settle for holding them to a FG...

[Sylar]

Our defense is an absolute embarrassment.

Simply not good enough.

[Haymaker]

*******s. Still, plenty of time.

[Sylar]

Are you kidding me on?!?!

Where the **** was that flag?

[Houchy]

Sorry to interrupt your NE love in guys. I think Tom Brady will still get you through though.

[Haymaker]

Sorry to interrupt your NE love in guys. I think Tom Brady will still get you through though.

Shush you :greengrin Welcome to the discussion.

[Sylar]

Sorry to interrupt your NE love in guys. I think Tom Brady will still get you through though.

Welcome L :thumbsup:

I'm still not convinced. Making too many mistakes and our defense couldn't stop me right now...

[Haymaker]

We have ****ed this.

[Sylar]

This is farcical.

Come the season end, we need to shake up the defense - sacking Matt Patricia would be a start as his "coordination" is laughable.

[Houchy]

Cheers guys. Still on edge due to the way we lost it last year. That was tough to swallow. :agree:

[Sylar]

The call of "bed" is getting louder.

This is looking painfully inevitable.

[Haymaker]

This is farcical.

Come the season end, we need to shake up the defense - sacking Matt Patricia would be a start as his "coordination" is laughable.

Farcical isnt the word I would use at this point!

[Haymaker]

Boulden for a TD. We need to do something.

[Sylar]

This defense would give McPake and Hanlon a run for it's money.

[Sylar]

That'll be game over and goodnight then.

[Haymaker]

Not sure that hit was legal?!

Head tackle?!

[Haymaker]

Game over.

[Sylar]

Game over.

[Houchy]

I'm still not convinced as it stands.

[Sylar]

I'm still not convinced as it stands.

Miss it here and you can rest easy.

[Sylar]

I'm off to bed.

I can watch my team lose if they put effort into it but this is a pitiful meek surrender.

Well done to the Baltimore Ravens - hope you represent the AFC well and manage to get a ring for Ray Lewis :agree:

[Houchy]

Happier now. :greengrin:

[Haymaker]

I'm off to bed.

I can watch my team lose if they put effort into it but this is a pitiful meek surrender.

Well done to the Baltimore Ravens - hope you represent the AFC well and manage to get a ring for Ray Lewis :agree:

Yep, all over. Poor, very poor performance.

[Houchy]

I'm off to bed.

I can watch my team lose if they put effort into it but this is a pitiful meek surrender.

Well done to the Baltimore Ravens - hope you represent the AFC well and manage to get a ring for Ray Lewis :agree:

Nice sentiments S. He certainly deserves it.

[Haymaker]

Thought we had a chance on that drive and what a ****ing interception. We havent looked like a play off team tonight. Christ we look like the Jets!

[Haymaker]

Baltimore are heading to the Super Bowl. Fair play to them, played a good game and a good season. As a Pats fan, I will support the AFC champions in the big one.

As for our "performance"... We didnt look like a playoff team at all. We lost Talib early, that had some impact yet no one stepped up. The chance to play on the Super Bowl but no one on D stepped up.

Welker, as much as I love him, wants the big money contract yet tonight he dropped a bread and butter catch that would have given us a first down. He dropped a similar critical pass in the Super Bowl last year. Think his time may have come to an end in New England.

[NOLA]

joe joe super joe :singing: join in lads :greengrin

[Gatecrasher]

Mon the Ravens in the superbowl :agree:

[DarrenSQH]

Was very surprised at that one.

Hope the Ravens win. Glad I can go back to hating the 49ers.

[hibsbollah]

Mon the Ravens in the superbowl :agree:

I reckon 80% of neutrals will want the Ravens to do it :agree:

[Falkirk Hibby]

Bitterly disappointed with that performance last night. As "The Story" said, I can take defeat if the team has given their all, but that was given up with hardly a whimper. Congrats to the Ravens though and will be cheering them on all the way, would be so good to see Ray Lewis get a ring!

As for the Pats, maybe it's post loss blues, but I think that could well be it for Brady's chance of another Superbowl win. He's not got many years left and that defence needs more than 1 year to get to a championship quality. Add in the likely loss of Welker, no deep threat and several teams getting stronger I just don't see us having the domination we have all been accustomed to seeing.

[Sergio sledge]

Its a good game for neutrals as it has so many good storylines.

Harbowl 1, Ray Lewis, Kaepernick's 10th start in the NFL is the Superbowl, the option offense (which wouldn't work in the NFL apparently) vs a more traditional offense, can Flacco prove his doubters wrong and join the elite.

I'm not really bothered who wins, but I like Kaepernick and Ray Lewis already has a Superbowl ring, so I'm leaning towards the 49ers.

[Sylar]

Bitterly disappointed with that performance last night. As "The Story" said, I can take defeat if the team has given their all, but that was given up with hardly a whimper. Congrats to the Ravens though and will be cheering them on all the way, would be so good to see Ray Lewis get a ring!

As for the Pats, maybe it's post loss blues, but I think that could well be it for Brady's chance of another Superbowl win. He's not got many years left and that defence needs more than 1 year to get to a championship quality. Add in the likely loss of Welker, no deep threat and several teams getting stronger I just don't see us having the domination we have all been accustomed to seeing.

I can't even get to feeling disappointed in all honesty. I was a bit peeved when I went to bed this morning but we got what we deserved in the end. Nothing.

Having watched us throughout the season, I didn't have a huge deal of faith once we beat Houston that we'd go any further. Had we required to travel to Mile High, I reckoned Manning et al would have picked us apart and with the strength of Baltimore across the field it came as absolutely no surprise that they walked through our defense at will whilst providing superb defensive support in shutting us out in the second half.

I reckon we need a serious shake-up across the team. Our defense needs some serious improvement and I wouldn't be too disappointed to see some coaches/coordinators/players leaving and making way for some new and substantially better recruits. Having said that, our offense really worried me last night too, particularly in red zone situations. I reckon Welker will move on this season, being traded for a high draft pick. He cost us the Superbowl last year with his butter-fingers and dropped a couple of first down passes last night which also cost us. Aside from our 2 TEs, we have no physical presence amongst our receivers and that showed last night too I felt.

No qualms with the outcome though and as annoyed as I am at our performance, I tip my hat to Baltimore. They fought hard, put up some huge stops, forced turnovers and ripped us apart with some outstanding plays in the second half. Hard to grudge Lewis his place in the Superbowl and hopefully he has a busier night than he did last night as he deserves to go out on a high. There's also the subplot of the Harbaugh Bowl which will replace the early-season notions of a Manning Bowl in their home town. I wish Baltimore well and hope they manage to get a win for the AFC though it'll be tough against a solid looking 49ers team.

[NOLA]

I reckon 80% of neutrals will want the Ravens to do it :agree:

im looking forward to the Har-Bowl already, defo on the side of the cleveland Browns :wink:

[DarrenSQH]

im looking forward to the Har-Bowl already, defo on the side of the cleveland Browns :wink:

LMAO.

Just seen that Sean Payton has been reinstated with immediate effect. Rodger must be worried about his reception in Nola next week so is trying to appease the fans. Still think Rodger will be about as popular as Wallace mercer at ER even after this decision.

[Dibben]

Thought we had a chance on that drive and what a ****ing interception. We havent looked like a play off team tonight. Christ we look like the Jets!

:bitchy:

Harsh but fair.

I've been a Jets fan since the mid 80's. I'm convinced they will come good.... eventually!!!

:thumbsup:

[NOLA]

LMAO.

Just seen that Sean Payton has been reinstated with immediate effect. Rodger must be worried about his reception in Nola next week so is trying to appease the fans. Still think Rodger will be about as popular as Wallace mercer at ER even after this decision.
Goodell's about as popular as a fart in a lift :bitchy:

[Haymaker]

:bitchy:

Harsh but fair.

I've been a Jets fan since the mid 80's. I'm convinced they will come good.... eventually!!!

:thumbsup:

I was :fishin: to be fair!

[NOLA]

the Saints unsurprisingly have fired DC steve Spagnoulo, he wasn't a great fit for NO as the D played too passive, my cousin stateside believes the new DC will be Lovie Smith or Romeo Crennel, both recently fired from their respective head coaching jobs, be happy with either of them TBH though im glad rob ryan isnt in the picture :cb

[hibsbollah]

Lovie Smith would be a great appointment, i would have thought he would be able to land another head coaching job though? He was hellish unlucky with injuries at Chicago.

[NOLA]

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-videos/0ap2000000130870/Best-of-players-sound
a good watch :agree:

[Gatecrasher]

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-videos/0ap2000000130870/Best-of-players-sound
a good watch :agree:
Brilliant, despite all the trash talk they guys have a lot of respect for each other.
some good one liners in there.

[Gatecrasher]

The NFC Won the Pro Bowl, I didnt watch it but will probably catch the highlights later. Superbowl week has now started :thumbsup:

[NOLA]

Rob Ryan apparently not now becoming DC in St. Louis, hells bells if he ends up in NOLA, the fact he favours a 3-4 system and Sean Payton publicly saying thats the way the Saints are heading this season has alarm bells ringing for me :ill:

[hibsbollah]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/interactive/2013/jan/30/nfl-salaries-team-position

This is interesting. Seahawks and Colts among the 4 teams with the most cap room, both made the playoffs. You really dont want to be the Lions though.

[Gatecrasher]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/interactive/2013/jan/30/nfl-salaries-team-position

This is interesting. Seahawks and Colts among the 4 teams with the most cap room, both made the playoffs. You really dont want to be the Lions though.
Looks like why we are losing Greg Jennings

[hibsbollah]

Looks like why we are losing Greg Jennings

I saw that, would fill a big gap for a quality receiver at Seattle, although a few other teams will be interested too. A better pickup than Titus Young, another good freeagent receiver, like Wes Welker, but a bit of a bellend by all accounts.

[hibsbollah]

Any predictions for the Superbowl? Im going for the Ravens by 13-18 points at 10/1. I also like a Ravens WR as MVP, Boldin is 25/1 but ive gone for Torrey Smith at 40/1. The 49ers have been weak against the deep ball in the playoffs.

[DarrenSQH]

Rob Ryan apparently not now becoming DC in St. Louis, hells bells if he ends up in NOLA, the fact he favours a 3-4 system and Sean Payton publicly saying thats the way the Saints are heading this season has alarm bells ringing for me :ill:

I dont think we will hire him. He comes with too much baggage and i dont think Payton will go for someone like that. He also took a good Dallas D and made it useless.

The Saints seem to be the opposite of Hibs in that we wont hire anyone who doesnt fit or brings alot of baggage with them.

[Sylar]

I saw that, would fill a big gap for a quality receiver at Seattle, although a few other teams will be interested too. A better pickup than Titus Young, another good freeagent receiver, like Wes Welker, but a bit of a bellend by all accounts.

The Welker one is going to be interesting as I really can't see New England retaining him...

He's been a great servant since arriving in Foxborough but his stats for the past 2 seasons include the most dropped catches in the league and fewer targets since we moved to the 2 TE set.

However, I'd hate to see him lining up against us and he's created so many great memories for me during our amazing run. However, I'm sure I read somewhere that to option him would cost in the region of $12 million for the season...considering the 2 big drops which arguably cost us the 2012 Superbowl and a place in the 2013 Superbowl, I doubt he'll be in New England next year. The most galling thing is that we're going to lose him to free agency and can't even trade him up for a draft pick or money.

I wonder who we'll look to as a replacement as we're not blessed with a huge receiving unit.

[Sylar]

Any predictions for the Superbowl? Im going for the Ravens by 13-18 points at 10/1. I also like a Ravens WR as MVP, Boldin is 25/1 but ive gone for Torrey Smith at 40/1. The 49ers have been weak against the deep ball in the playoffs.

I'm not a gambling man but I fancy San Francisco by 10-14 points. The 49ers D is as formidable as any in the league and with Kaepernick (who I reckon could be MVP) at the helm, I fancy they'll be too strong for the Ravens.

If they do win it, it's been one hell of a year for San Francisco sports' teams!

[hibsbollah]

I'm not a gambling man but I fancy San Francisco by 10-14 points. The 49ers D is as formidable as any in the league and with Kaepernick (who I reckon could be MVP) at the helm, I fancy they'll be too strong for the Ravens.

If they do win it, it's been one hell of a year for San Francisco sports' teams!

Kaepernick is definitely the most likely MVP, but its only 4/1 and i only bet on the basis of ridiculous odds that never come in :greengrin Hes got all the physical attributes plus he seems to be nerveless in the big games.

[Gatecrasher]

http://sphotos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/295081_10151290338075073_378305268_n.jpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eATwE9YT7Mw

[NOLA]

my heart says a ravens win but my head says 49ers, i'll go for 24-20

[Haymaker]

Ravens for the win.

[Gatecrasher]

Busy day tomorrow, Hibs game then Super Bowl. Wonder the odds on a Hibs and Ravens double :greengrin

[Calvin]

Busy day tomorrow, Hibs game then Super Bowl. Wonder the odds on a Hibs and Ravens double :greengrin
15/2, not too shabby!

[YehButNoBut]

A Superbowl feast tonight :drool:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/s480x480/217537_10151295529270003_569644312_n.jpg

[Gatecrasher]

15/2, not too shabby!

£5 on that :greengrin

[DH1875]

Hello peeps.

Been a while, anyone staying up to watch the game? Gutted as first time in years I'm stuck in the house watching it. Think I predicted a 49 ers vs Ravens SB at the start of the season but can't remember. Anyhow, reckon the 49ers will run out the winners tonight.

[Gatecrasher]

Hello peeps.

Been a while, anyone staying up to watch the game? Gutted as first time in years I'm stuck in the house watching it. Think I predicted a 49 ers vs Ravens SB at the start of the season but can't remember. Anyhow, reckon the 49ers will run out the winners tonight.
im watching it!
What times KO want to watch the Hibs highlights :greengrin

[hibsbollah]

I'm watching it, sleepiness permitting:zzzzz!:

Should be a good one.

[James.]

Off to bed! Up early for work - will watch highlights in the morning!

Best of luck to the Ravens (got to go with the team that disposed of the Patriots :wink:)

Oh and check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltimore_Ravens (some 49ers fan with a lot of time on their hands!)

[hibsbollah]

Oh jeez. Getting those Newtown kids singing is just horrible. Exploitative pish.

[DH1875]

Off to bed! Up early for work - will watch highlights in the morning!

Best of luck to the Ravens (got to go with the team that disposed of the Patriots :wink:)

Oh and check out http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltimore_Ravens (some 49ers fan with a lot of time on their hands!)


You should be able to get the game on the bbc i player tomorrow so just keep of the forums till then :greengrin

[NOLA]

am i the only one who wishes that one time they would just have the national anthem done normally without the need to have some singer have their own take on it?

[Gatecrasher]

am i the only one who wishes that one time they would just have the national anthem done normally without the need to have some singer have their own take on it?
Alicia keys sang it well but I know what you mean :agree:

[hibsbollah]

Weird start from the 49ers. I could've told you you can't have a formation like that, so why didnt the 49ers know it? And a draw play on 3rd and 15?

Ravens turn.

[Gatecrasher]

Weird start from the 49ers. I could've told you you can't have a formation like that, so why didnt the 49ers know it? And a draw play on 3rd and 15?

Ravens turn.
And Ravens starting well

really well TD Ravens!

[hibsbollah]

49ers CBs miles away from the Ravens receivers so far:aok:
7-0:greengrin

[DH1875]

Cracking start for the Ravens :agree:.

[Gatecrasher]

7-3 good stop for the Ravens after 49ers drive down the field

[hibsbollah]

Big sack from Kruger there, held 49ers to a FG, 7-3.
Ray Lewis has missed three tackles already:confused:

[Gatecrasher]

How was that a completed pass lol

[hibsbollah]

Wow what a job by Flacco there. Playing great so far.

[DH1875]

**** me. Flacco isn't half looking good, or he's been very lucky so far.

[DH1875]

First quarter has flown in. Hope it's a good sign :thumbsup:.

[Gatecrasher]

Ooh Baltimore Ball!

[DH1875]

49ers fumble, Ravens ball. This one could be over by half time :shocked:.

[Gatecrasher]

14-3

[hibsbollah]

Loving that drive.:aok:

14-3.

If I was the Ravens D coach id take Ray Lewis out for obvious passing downs. He's looking like the weak link.

[DH1875]

Good news for all those not staying up till the end. Will be on the BBC red button from 7pm.

If it wasn't for the fact the 49ers have Kaepernick I'd say this could be over.

[Gatecrasher]

Wow another turn over

[Houchy]

Great pick!!! Lets go ravens!!

[DH1875]

WTF :confused:. Another 49ers turnover. Looks like the best we can hope for is a Beyonce wardrobe malfunction at half time to keep this thing interesting :greengrin.

[Gatecrasher]

Great pick!!! Lets go ravens!!
:thumbsup:
Oh short on the fake punt

[DH1875]

Crazy call by the Ravens there. Should have put the points on the board. Could well come back to hurt them :confused:.

[hibsbollah]

Stupid call. Take the 3 pts. Or is that hindsight?:greengrin

[Gatecrasher]

Crazy call by the Ravens there. Should have put the points on the board. Could well come back to hurt them :confused:.
Unless they feel they can stop SF with the long field

[Houchy]

Gutsy play that almost paid off.

[Houchy]

I just hope we don't lose by 2 now

[DH1875]

Unless they feel they can stop SF with the long field


If it was 5 or 6 yards maybe but asking your kicker to get 10 yards :confused:. It's the SB, you gotta take the points.

[hibsbollah]

What's Flaccos stats? He seems almost faultless:aok:

Its just come up :greengrin

12/17 2t 0i

[DH1875]

If it was 5 or 6 yards maybe but asking your kicker to get 10 yards :confused:. It's the SB, you gotta take the points.


In saying that, the 49ers look like their gonna do nothing on O? Have they still got Smith in reserve? Kaepernick is class but he's looking very dodgy at the moment.

[Gatecrasher]

If it was 5 or 6 yards maybe but asking your kicker to get 10 yards :confused:. It's the SB, you gotta take the points.


In saying that, the 49ers look like their gonna do nothing on O? Have they still got Smith in reserve? Kaepernick is class but he's looking very dodgy at the moment.
I know what your saying I'm just thinking the logic behind the decision:agree:
what a play by jones!!!!
21-3

[DH1875]

OMG :shocked:. Never saw this happening in a month of Sundays :faint:.

[Houchy]

Wow, 2 man crushes in 1 day. Ben Williams AND Joe Flacco