[kcburg]

For the Chiefs.....

Cassel
Palko
Stanzi

.......I've got a friend who works training camp for the Chiefs, and says Palko looks horrible and Stanzi not much better. If Cassel isn't under center, we look pretty rough.

under 32.5 might not be a bad play

[4TH AND STUPID]

under 32.5 might not be a bad play

you have to be careful with unders cause a shit qb in preseason often gets sacked and fumbles in their own end or throws a pick 6

bad qb in preseason doesnt mean points dont get scored

[Glitch]

LMFAO! I hope you are joking, Evans isn't shit

hes lost a step but he at one point was a great receiver. hes still a decent one.

[twelvejewelz]

Here ya go for tonight buddy::

NFL PRESEASON NEWS AND NOTES
NFL PreSeason Friday: What Bettors Need to Know
By Nick Parsons

Cincinnati Bengals at Detroit Lions -4.5 (35)
STARTER REPORT

Bengals: Cincinnati will start rookie Andy Dalton at quarterback against the Lions on Friday with veteran Bruce Gradkowski coming on after the first quarter and Carson Palmer’s little brother Jordan and rookie Dan LeFevour sharing mop-up duties.

Cincinnati coach Marvin Lewis is leaning towards keeping the first unit on longer than usual; “We haven’t had all the offseason work that you normally would have,” Lewis said. “So I think we need to play together as a football team on both sides of the ball.”

Lions: Detroit is already down a few key offensive players because of injuries but head coach Jim Schwartz and offensive coordinator Scott Linehan are both talking about the need to play aggressive in the preseason.

“We’re not going in there being conservative in any way and not doing anything because we’re worried about lacking numbers,” Linehan told MichiganLive.com on Wednesday afternoon. “I don’t know how much guys are going to play – we make that decision tomorrow – but guys are getting ready to play a game.”

Often injured QB Matthew Stafford will lead the Lions’ first string offense on Friday and Shaun Hill is expected to take over afterward with Drew Stanton and Zac Robinson following Hill.

Thing To Remember: The Lions were the best team against the spread last season at 12-4 and they were just as profitable in the preseason going 3-1 ATS.


Miami Dolphins at Atlanta Falcons -2.5 (33)
STARTER REPORT

Dolphins: Don’t expect much time on the field for players at the top of Miami’s depth chart. Fins coach Tony Sparano didn’t say specifically how long his starters would play but stressed that the priority in the first preseason game will be to assess rookies and players on the cut bubble.

“I can’t afford to keep a group out there too long without getting some of these young players evaluated,” Sparano told the South Florida Sun Sentinel. “I need to make sure these players get evaluated because as we get going here into the next couple weeks I really can’t waste that kind of time.”

Embattled QB Chad Henne will take the reins of the first team offense while former Panthers signal caller Matt Moore will lead the second group out. Undrafted rookie Pat Devlin and one-time Patriots player Kevin O’Connell will share quarterback duties in the second half.

Falcons: Atlanta isn't giving reporters much on its player rotation plans for the game against Miami, but Falcons coach Mike Smith did say his first goal is to win on Friday, and seeing good technique from his players.

QB Matt Ryan takes the field first with the rest of the offensive starters and will be followed by Chris Redman, John Parker Wilson and Adam Froman.

Things To Remember: The under is 8-4 in Atlanta’s preseason games since Mike Smith became head coach.


Pittsburgh Steelers at Washington Redskins PK (33)
STARTER REPORT

Steelers: Roethlisberger is expected to see a few snaps before giving way to Byron Leftwitch, Charlie Batch and Dennis Dixon. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin says the quarterback depth chart behind Roethlisberger isn’t set in stone and could change by the season opener.

Expected to sit this one out are Troy Polamalu, James Harrison and wideout Emmanuel Sanders.

Redskins: Washington is staging an open competition at QB between fifth-year pro John Beck and the much-maligned Rex Grossman. Grossman will start on Friday but Beck is questionable to play because of a nagging groin injury.

If Beck can’t go, free-agent pickup Kellen Clemens will receive snaps after Grossman and Ben Chappell will close out the day. Safeties LaRon Landry, Atogwe Oshiomogho will sit out due to injury, as will tight end Chris Cooley.

Things To Remember: Mike Shanahan is 44-28 straight up in the preseason, by far the best record among active coaches.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers -3 at Kansas City Chiefs (32.5)
STARTER REPORT

Buccaneers: Head coach Raheem Morris plans to give his first unit a lot of playing time; “I want to try to get him 20 plays or so, about a quarter, maybe a quarter and a half,” Morris said of his QB Josh Freeman. “A little bit more than you normally would.”

Josh Johnson follows Freeman while Rudy Carpenter and Jonathan Crompton will finish off the quarterbacking duties.

Chiefs: The Chiefs' main concern in the preseason is to determine whether either rookie Ricky Stanzi or Tyler Palko can be relied on at quarterback should starter Matt Cassell go down with an injury. Head coach Todd Haley didn’t reveal his playing time plan for Friday’s game but he did say Stanzi and Palko would get a lot action against the Bucs.

Things To Remember: No Week 1 preseason line has moved more than this game. Oddsmakers opened with the Chiefs as short home faves but sharp bettors grabbed the Bucs early pushing the line to Tampa Bay -2.5.

One possible reason for the pointspread swing: KC is 4-23-1 ATS in its last 28 preseason games and 0-7-1 ATS since Todd Haley became the club’s head coach.


San Francisco 49ers at New Orleans Saints -3 (35.5)
STARTER REPORT

49ers: First year head coach Jim Harbaugh told the San Jose Mercury News that he plans to play his starters about 20 snaps in Friday’s game against the Saints. At the same time, he said he wants to give all four of his quarterbacks some time on the field.

Harbaugh also can’t stop gushing about rookie QB Colin Kaepernick, who right now sits No. 2 on the team’s depth chart behind Alex Smith. McLeod Bethel Thompson is the only other signal caller on the Niners' roster at this point.

WR Michael Crabtree will not play due to injury but the real injury concern comes more on the other side of the ball for San Fran. The Niners have three dinged up cornerbacks and will be starting rookie DB Chris Culliver against New Orleans.

Saints: The New Orleans Times-Picayune hints QB Drew Brews will play the first before giving way to backup Chase Daniel.

The paper also suggested Daniel would play all of the second quarter and some of the third. That would leave third-string QB Sean Canfield to play the last quarter and a half for the Saints.

Notable absentees are Marques Colston and Tracy Porter because of injury.

Things To Remember: The Saints averaged 30.5 points per game in the preseason last year and the over went 4-0.

[samdapatriotsfan]

Thanks twelve, good info!

[twelvejewelz]

Thanks twelve, good info!

Np, here is saturday for you to

covers.com/pageLoader/pageLoader.aspx?page=/data/nfl/matchups/g1_summary_11.html (-1.5, 35.5)

Starter report

Packers: As has been the case throughout head coach Mike McCarthy’s tenure, Packers starters aren’t expected to play more than a few series Saturday. It’s unlikely that Aaron Rodgers will be on the field for more than 12 plays. Matt Flynn and Graham Harrell will see the bulk of the action under center.

Browns: The Browns have a new head coach in Pat Shurmur and while he hasn’t laid out his gameplan in regard to playing time, he has indicated that he “won’t deviate from the original plan”. Way to be vague, coach.

Several Browns insiders believe that Colt McCoy and the rest of the starters will be on the field for the majority of the first quarter.

Things to remember: This game marks the first time the Packers will open the preseason away from Lambeau Field since 2007… The Browns edged the Packers 27-24 in last year’s preseason opener… The Packers are 9-11 SU and 11-9 ATS in the preseason under Mike McCarthy.

covers.com/pageLoader/pageLoader.aspx?page=/data/nfl/matchups/g1_summary_12.html (-3, 33)

Starter report

Vikings: The winds of change have blown through Minnesota, with Donovan McNabb taking over the reins at quarterback. However, he won’t make much more than a cameo appearance Saturday, before giving way to rookie Christian Ponder and Joe Webb.

Ponder has struggled at his first NFL training camp, but head coach Leslie Frazier doesn’t seem overly concerned.

"It's called being a rookie in the National Football League,” Frazier told reporters. “There's going to be some other days like that. That's part of it. He's going to have a lot of good days, too."

Titans: For the first time in what seems like an eternity, Jeff Fisher won’t be roaming the Titans sideline. Mike Munchak is the new man in charge, and while he hasn’t indicated his plan of attack for the preseason opener, we know that Chris Johnson (holdout) and Kenny Britt (injury) won’t be taking the field.

We can expect to see Matt Hasselbeck make a cameo appearance before Jake Locker makes his much-anticipated debut. Rusty Smith and Brett Ratliff should also see time in the second half.

Things to remember: This matchup features a pair of head coaches getting their first taste of preseason action… The Vikings haven’t posted a losing preseason record since 2003… Tennessee is a perfect 7-0 SU in its last seven preseason home games.

covers.com/pageLoader/pageLoader.aspx?page=/data/nfl/matchups/g1_summary_13.html (-7, 34)

Starter report

Colts: In case you haven’t been paying attention, Peyton Manning won’t be ready for the Colts preseason opener. He isn’t expected to see any action until Week 1.

Based on Jim Caldwell’s history, the rest of the Colts starters likely won’t get more than a series or two of action.

Curtis Painter is expected to start Saturday’s game and play the entire first half. Dan Orlovsky and Nate Davis will share duties in the second half, while Mike Hartline may have to wait until next week to make his preseason debut.

Rams: Rams head coach Steve Spanguolo has indicated that his starters will see 12-15 plays before exiting. That includes QB Sam Bradford. Veteran A.J. Feeley should play the rest of the first half before giving way to a pair of undrafted rookies, Thaddeus Lewis and Taylor Potts.

St. Louis is a little banged up with no fewer than 12 players expected to miss Saturday’s game due to injury.

Things to remember: The Rams are 6-2 SU and ATS in preseason action since Steve Spagnuolo took over coaching duties two years ago… St. Louis has given up at least 20 points in seven of its last nine preseason tilts… Colts head coach Jim Caldwell doesn’t put much stock in preseason results. His team has gone 1-7 SU and 2-6 ATS under his guidance.

covers.com/pageLoader/pageLoader.aspx?page=/data/nfl/matchups/g1_summary_14.html (-2.5, 33)

Starter report

Giants: Giants head coach Tom Coughlin says that his starters will see between 15 and 18 plays on Saturday night. He’s also confirmed that only three of the four quarterbacks on the roster will get action. Chances are, that leaves Ryan Perriloux as the odd man out, with Sage Rosenfels and David Carr following Eli Manning.

Osi Umenyiora has been cleared to practice, but has yet to do so and obviously won’t be on the field in the opener.

Panthers: Saturday marks the much-anticipated debut of Panthers first-overall pick Cam Newton. However, fans may have to wait to catch their first glimpse of Newton in game action. Ron Rivera hasn’t indicated who will start Saturday, but has listed Jimmy Clausen ahead of Newton on the depth chart.

Veteran Derek Anderson and second-year man Tony Pike will also see time in the opener, likely splitting the final quarter and a half.

Things to remember: Tom Coughlin has steered the Giants to a 33-28 SU and 30-27-4 ATS mark in the preseason… The Panthers are a miserable 1-7 SU and ATS in the preseason over the last two years… Ron Rivera makes his coaching debut for Carolina.

covers.com/pageLoader/pageLoader.aspx?page=/data/nfl/matchups/g1_summary_15.html (-3, 34.5)

Starter report

Bills: Bills boss Chan Gailey hasn’t said what he has in store for Saturday, but if last year is any indication, we can expect all four quarterbacks to see the field at some point.

Ryan Fitzpatrick is the starter, but he’ll be pushed by Tyler Thigpen. Levi Brown and Josh Nesbitt will be assigned mop-up duty in the second half.

Bears: Lovie Smith likes to give his starters a series of action in the preseason opener, and that trend should continue in 2011. After Jay Cutler makes a cameo appearance, Caleb Hanie will likely play two quarters. That leaves the remainder of the game to fifth-round pick Nathan Enderle.

Matt Forte remains a question mark after he hinted that he may not play in the preseason until he has a long-term contract extension in place.

"I expect all the guys to be ready to play if we tell them,” Smith told reporters. “We'll make those decisions a little bit later. But you just look at what Matt is doing. You love everything he's done. And why wouldn't he be ready to go?''

Things to remember: Chan Gailey-coached teams have gone 3-11 SU and 4-10 ATS in the preseason… The Bears are 14-15 SU and 12-16-1 ATS in exhibition contests under Lovie Smith… Chicago went winless in last year’s preseason… The Bills won 27-20 when these teams met in the 2009 preseason.

[BarkingToad]

Np, here is saturday for you to

covers.com/pageLoader/pageLoader.aspx?page=/data/nfl/matchups/g1_summary_11.html (-1.5, 35.5)

Starter report

Packers: As has been the case throughout head coach Mike McCarthy’s tenure, Packers starters aren’t expected to play more than a few series Saturday. It’s unlikely that Aaron Rodgers will be on the field for more than 12 plays. Matt Flynn and Graham Harrell will see the bulk of the action under center.

Browns: The Browns have a new head coach in Pat Shurmur and while he hasn’t laid out his gameplan in regard to playing time, he has indicated that he “won’t deviate from the original plan”. Way to be vague, coach.

Several Browns insiders believe that Colt McCoy and the rest of the starters will be on the field for the majority of the first quarter.

Things to remember: This game marks the first time the Packers will open the preseason away from Lambeau Field since 2007… The Browns edged the Packers 27-24 in last year’s preseason opener… The Packers are 9-11 SU and 11-9 ATS in the preseason under Mike McCarthy.

covers.com/pageLoader/pageLoader.aspx?page=/data/nfl/matchups/g1_summary_12.html (-3, 33)

Starter report

Vikings: The winds of change have blown through Minnesota, with Donovan McNabb taking over the reins at quarterback. However, he won’t make much more than a cameo appearance Saturday, before giving way to rookie Christian Ponder and Joe Webb.

Ponder has struggled at his first NFL training camp, but head coach Leslie Frazier doesn’t seem overly concerned.

"It's called being a rookie in the National Football League,” Frazier told reporters. “There's going to be some other days like that. That's part of it. He's going to have a lot of good days, too."

Titans: For the first time in what seems like an eternity, Jeff Fisher won’t be roaming the Titans sideline. Mike Munchak is the new man in charge, and while he hasn’t indicated his plan of attack for the preseason opener, we know that Chris Johnson (holdout) and Kenny Britt (injury) won’t be taking the field.

We can expect to see Matt Hasselbeck make a cameo appearance before Jake Locker makes his much-anticipated debut. Rusty Smith and Brett Ratliff should also see time in the second half.

Things to remember: This matchup features a pair of head coaches getting their first taste of preseason action… The Vikings haven’t posted a losing preseason record since 2003… Tennessee is a perfect 7-0 SU in its last seven preseason home games.

covers.com/pageLoader/pageLoader.aspx?page=/data/nfl/matchups/g1_summary_13.html (-7, 34)

Starter report

Colts: In case you haven’t been paying attention, Peyton Manning won’t be ready for the Colts preseason opener. He isn’t expected to see any action until Week 1.

Based on Jim Caldwell’s history, the rest of the Colts starters likely won’t get more than a series or two of action.

Curtis Painter is expected to start Saturday’s game and play the entire first half. Dan Orlovsky and Nate Davis will share duties in the second half, while Mike Hartline may have to wait until next week to make his preseason debut.

Rams: Rams head coach Steve Spanguolo has indicated that his starters will see 12-15 plays before exiting. That includes QB Sam Bradford. Veteran A.J. Feeley should play the rest of the first half before giving way to a pair of undrafted rookies, Thaddeus Lewis and Taylor Potts.

St. Louis is a little banged up with no fewer than 12 players expected to miss Saturday’s game due to injury.

Things to remember: The Rams are 6-2 SU and ATS in preseason action since Steve Spagnuolo took over coaching duties two years ago… St. Louis has given up at least 20 points in seven of its last nine preseason tilts… Colts head coach Jim Caldwell doesn’t put much stock in preseason results. His team has gone 1-7 SU and 2-6 ATS under his guidance.

covers.com/pageLoader/pageLoader.aspx?page=/data/nfl/matchups/g1_summary_14.html (-2.5, 33)

Starter report

Giants: Giants head coach Tom Coughlin says that his starters will see between 15 and 18 plays on Saturday night. He’s also confirmed that only three of the four quarterbacks on the roster will get action. Chances are, that leaves Ryan Perriloux as the odd man out, with Sage Rosenfels and David Carr following Eli Manning.

Osi Umenyiora has been cleared to practice, but has yet to do so and obviously won’t be on the field in the opener.

Panthers: Saturday marks the much-anticipated debut of Panthers first-overall pick Cam Newton. However, fans may have to wait to catch their first glimpse of Newton in game action. Ron Rivera hasn’t indicated who will start Saturday, but has listed Jimmy Clausen ahead of Newton on the depth chart.

Veteran Derek Anderson and second-year man Tony Pike will also see time in the opener, likely splitting the final quarter and a half.

Things to remember: Tom Coughlin has steered the Giants to a 33-28 SU and 30-27-4 ATS mark in the preseason… The Panthers are a miserable 1-7 SU and ATS in the preseason over the last two years… Ron Rivera makes his coaching debut for Carolina.

covers.com/pageLoader/pageLoader.aspx?page=/data/nfl/matchups/g1_summary_15.html (-3, 34.5)

Starter report

Bills: Bills boss Chan Gailey hasn’t said what he has in store for Saturday, but if last year is any indication, we can expect all four quarterbacks to see the field at some point.

Ryan Fitzpatrick is the starter, but he’ll be pushed by Tyler Thigpen. Levi Brown and Josh Nesbitt will be assigned mop-up duty in the second half.

Bears: Lovie Smith likes to give his starters a series of action in the preseason opener, and that trend should continue in 2011. After Jay Cutler makes a cameo appearance, Caleb Hanie will likely play two quarters. That leaves the remainder of the game to fifth-round pick Nathan Enderle.

Matt Forte remains a question mark after he hinted that he may not play in the preseason until he has a long-term contract extension in place.

"I expect all the guys to be ready to play if we tell them,” Smith told reporters. “We'll make those decisions a little bit later. But you just look at what Matt is doing. You love everything he's done. And why wouldn't he be ready to go?''

Things to remember: Chan Gailey-coached teams have gone 3-11 SU and 4-10 ATS in the preseason… The Bears are 14-15 SU and 12-16-1 ATS in exhibition contests under Lovie Smith… Chicago went winless in last year’s preseason… The Bills won 27-20 when these teams met in the 2009 preseason.

Thanks twelvejewelz. Great thread guys!

[rm18]

I took Giants +.5 for the first quarter and to score first seems too easy.

[Glitch]

thanks twelve. this is an important thread.

[bobbyk1133]

This author didn't do his homework.

Coach Pat Shurmur confirmed that the first team will play the first quarter Saturday against Green Bay. He added that the second team will play the middle quarters and the rest will play the fourth. There is virtually no competition for starting spots - starters are expected to receive more reps than usual in the middle two preseason games.

QB Clausen will start against the Giants, but QB but Newton will also play with the starters, coach Ron Rivera said. Veteran QB Derek Anderson also will play for the Panthers on Saturday night, but it's unlikely second-year QB Tony Pike will play.

Also, Webb is expected to play with the 2nd stringers instead of Ponder.

All this info has been known for a couple days.

[Stevedore]

Pound the GB over 35 tonight. Packers might have only 3 CB's play in this game and none of them are starters. Also, the combo of Rodgers, Flynn, and Harrell will put up a lot of points. Harrell, who's having a nice camp can really throw it, and we all know Flynn can play.

Last year 51 points were scored between the two, look for the same tonight.

[bobbyk1133]

Pound the GB over 35 tonight. Packers might have only 3 CB's play in this game and none of them are starters. Also, the combo of Rodgers, Flynn, and Harrell will put up a lot of points. Harrell, who's having a nice camp can really throw it, and we all know Flynn can play. Last year 51 points were scored between the two, look for the same tonight.

Couldn't agree more.

Sharps liked the under, public betting the over today pushing it up to 35.5 at many places.

[Glitch]

This author didn't do his homework.





Also, Webb is expected to play with the 2nd stringers instead of Ponder.

All this info has been known for a couple days.

christian ponder is a beast- id be happy if i was on the vikes and he played the entire 2nd half.

[trytrytry]

Glitch is this the only forum you post at?

[Stevedore]

Couldn't agree more.

Sharps liked the under, public betting the over today pushing it up to 35.5 at many places.

Can't believe the Sharps were on the under. The over was like stealing $$.

[bobbyk1133]

Can't believe the Sharps were on the under. The over was like stealing $$.

[rm18]

Anyone got good info for tonight?

Looking at philly 1st half, carolina, and redskins for the 2nd half if the rotations are not too out of wack.

[Rich Boy]

Arizona: Kevin Kolb, John Skelton, Richard Bartell, Max Hall

Atlanta: Matt Ryan, Chris Redman, John Parker Wilson, Adam Froman

Baltimore: Joe Flacco, Tyrod Taylor, Hunter Cantwell

Buffalo: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Tyler Thigpen, Levi Brown, Josh Nesbitt

Carolina: Cam Newton, Jimmy Clausen, Derek Anderson, Tony Pike

Chicago: Jay Cutler, Caleb Hanie, Nathan Enderle, Trevor Vittatoe

Cincinnati: Andy Dalton, Bruce Gradkowski, Jordon Palmer, Dan LeFevour

Cleveland: Colt McCoy, Seneca Wallace, Jarrett Brown, Troy Weatherhead

Dallas: Tony Romo, John Kitna, Stephen McGee, Tom Brandstater

Denver: Kyle Orton, Tim Tebow, Brady Quinn, Adam Weber

Detroit: Mathew Stafford, Shaun Hill, Drew Stanton, Zac Robinson

Green Bay: Aaron Rodgers, Matt Flynn, Graham Harrell

Houston: Matt Schaub, Matt Leinart, TJ Yates

Indianapolis: Peyton Manning (inj.), Kerry Collins, Dan Orlovsky, Curtis Painter, Nate Davis, Mike Hartline

Jacksonville: David Garrard (inj.), Blaine Gabbert, Luke McCown, Todd Bouman

Kanas City: Matt Cassel, Tyler Palko, Ricky Stanzi

Miami: Chad Henne, Matt Moore, Kevin O’Connell, Pat Devlin

Minnesota: Donovan McNabb, Christian Ponder, Joe Webb, Rhett Bomar

New England: Tom Brady, Brian Hoyer, Ryan Mallett, Jon Crompton

New Orleans: Drew Brees, Chase Daniel, Sean Canfield

NY Giants: Eli Manning, Sage Rosenfels, David Carr, Ryan Perrilloux

NY Jets: Mark Sanchez, Mark Brunell, Greg McElroy, Drew Willy

Oakland: Jason Campbell, Trent Edwards, Kyle Boller, Jordan LaSecla

Philadelphia: Mike Vick, Vince Young, Mike Kafka, Jerrod Johnson

Pittsburgh: Ben Roethlisberger, Byron Leftwich, Charlie Batch, Dennis Dixon

San Diego: Philip Rivers, Billy Volek, Scott Tolzien

San Francisco: Alex Smith, Colin Kaepernick, Jeremiah Masoli, McLeod Bethel-Thompson

Seattle: Tavaris Jackson, Charlie Whitehurst, Josh Portis

St Louis: Sam Bradford, AJ Feely, Thaddeus Lewis, Taylor Potts.

Tampa Bay: Josh Freeman, Josh Johnson, Rudy Carpenter, Joanthan Crompton, Mike Coughlin.

Tennessee: Matt Hasselbeck, Jake Locker, Rusty Smith, Brett Ratliff

Washington: Rex Grossman, John Beck, Kellen Clemens, Ben Chappell, Marc Verica

[twelvejewelz]

Carolina Panthers at Cincinnati Bengals (-2.5, 34)
STARTER REPORT

PANTHERS: As expected, QB Cam Newton and the rest of Carolina's starters will play three quarters Thursday night against Cincinnati. The Panthers are game-planning for the Bengals as if this is a regular season game.

WR Steve Smith said he plans to play against Cincinnati. Smith hasn't played in the first two exhibition games due to a finger injury.

Meanwhile, QB Cam Newton continues to bone up on the playbook.

"Coming out here each and every day and going home each and every day and going over what we had in with the installations each day, it’s been a slow process,” said Newton. “I'm just trying to keep progressing up that hill.”

BENGALS: Coach Marvin Lewis said he expects the same number of reps for the first-team offense versus Carolina, as has been the case during the first two games when they played the entire first half.

New Bengals’ quarterback Andy Dalton, a 2nd round pick in this year’s NFL draft, has been ineffective this exhibition season. In eleven preseason drives led by Dalton, the Bengals first-team offense went without a first down six times. Five times they punted and three times Dalton tossed an interception.

Dalton refuses to use the weather as an excuse for his mediocre play or the team’s two losses. "We cannot make the weather an excuse," he said. "Both teams had to play in (the rain). We just were not quick to start off."

THINGS TO REMEMBER: The 61-10 margin of defeat (34-3 at Detroit, 27-7 at the Jets) through two preseason games is the worst in Cincinnati’s team history. The previous record was 31 points (20-0 at Kansas City, 28-17 at the Jets) in 1986.


Cleveland Browns at Philadelphia Eagles (-7, 40)
STARTER REPORT

BROWNS: Head coach Pat Shurmur said the starters will play at least the first half against the Eagles. Look for them to play well into the third quarter.

Pro Bowl WR/KR Josh Cribs (hamstring) returned to the practice field this week. He is questionable for tonight’s contest.

LG Eric Steinbach (back) and RB Brandon Jackson (toe) are still out.

Left tackle Joe Thomas inked a huge seven-year, $84 million contract extension that will keep him in Cleveland for another decade. Thomas is excited about the extension and the Browns’ direction under Shurmur.

"We're already seeing great strides. We're going to throw the ball and attack defenses. I like having an offensive head coach (in Shurmur). He's another reason I wanted to stay."

EAGLES: Coach Andy Reid said QB Michael Vick and the rest of the starters will play the entire first half and at least the first series of the third quarter versus the Browns.

RB Ronnie Brown has just 47 yards on 15 carries in two preseason games, but the former Dolphins first-round pick said it's just a matter of getting adjusted to a new team and a different system. The Eagles are toying with the possibility of having Brown return kickoffs.

THINGS TO REMEMBER: The Eagles are 2-9 SU and 1-10 ATS in final preseason home games since 2000. Reid has been a preseason favorite of more than five points three times in his NFL career. Philadelphia is 0-3 ATS in those games.


Washington Redskins at Baltimore Ravens (-5.5, 33.5)
STARTER REPORT

REDSKINS: Redskins coach Mike Shanahan would not reveal who will start at quarterback against Baltimore, but he said that both Rex Grossman and John Beck will work with the starters.

Grossman says he notices a difference now that he's entering a third year in this offensive system. Being able to start three games in 2010 helped, too.

"You have more ease about everything," he said. "That's what I'm feeling."

Facing an aggressive defense this week should be good for Beck. His longest pass against Indianapolis was only 16 yards in the air as the Colts played a lot of two-deep zone, forcing underneath throws.

Baltimore's aggressive style provides more time for downfield tosses.

RAVENS: Coach John Harbaugh said the plan tonight is to play the starters into the third quarter, possibly through three quarters. He added that veterans such as LB Ray Lewis, S Ed Reed, OLB Terrell Suggs and DT Haloti Ngata will not play very long.

DC Chuck Pagano has blitzed and mixed coverages up this preseason, even after he told reporters he’d keep things vanilla.

“We kind of expected it, that’s Chuck’s personality,” OLB Jarret Johnson said. “I can’t believe he said he was going to be vanilla.”

THINGS TO REMEMBER: Baltimore is 4-1 SU and ATS the last five meetings in this series during the preseason since 2005. Shanahan has been a preseason dog of more than five points on six different occasions in his NFL career. His teams managed to win all six games straight-up.

[BarkingToad]

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP)


Cam Newton will start Carolina's preseason game Thursday night against the Cincinnati Bengals.



Panthers coach Ron Rivera said Sunday that Newton will play the first three quarters against the Bengals, but that doesn't mean the rookie quarterback will be the starter in the Sept. 11 season opener.
"It will give us an opportunity to see how he'll handle the whole game experience and we'll go from there," said Rivera, who hedged on anything past Thursday night.
"It makes him the starter for Thursday. We are still in the evaluation process after having gone through a game where we did some good things, but not enough good things."

[bobbyk1133]

Carolina Panthers at Cincinnati Bengals (-2.5, 34) STARTER REPORT PANTHERS: As expected, QB Cam Newton and the rest of Carolina's starters will play three quarters Thursday night against Cincinnati. The Panthers are game-planning for the Bengals as if this is a regular season game. WR Steve Smith said he plans to play against Cincinnati. Smith hasn't played in the first two exhibition games due to a finger injury. Meanwhile, QB Cam Newton continues to bone up on the playbook. "Coming out here each and every day and going home each and every day and going over what we had in with the installations each day, it’s been a slow process,” said Newton. “I'm just trying to keep progressing up that hill.” BENGALS: Coach Marvin Lewis said he expects the same number of reps for the first-team offense versus Carolina, as has been the case during the first two games when they played the entire first half. New Bengals’ quarterback Andy Dalton, a 2nd round pick in this year’s NFL draft, has been ineffective this exhibition season. In eleven preseason drives led by Dalton, the Bengals first-team offense went without a first down six times. Five times they punted and three times Dalton tossed an interception. Dalton refuses to use the weather as an excuse for his mediocre play or the team’s two losses. "We cannot make the weather an excuse," he said. "Both teams had to play in (the rain). We just were not quick to start off." THINGS TO REMEMBER: The 61-10 margin of defeat (34-3 at Detroit, 27-7 at the Jets) through two preseason games is the worst in Cincinnati’s team history. The previous record was 31 points (20-0 at Kansas City, 28-17 at the Jets) in 1986. Cleveland Browns at Philadelphia Eagles (-7, 40) STARTER REPORT BROWNS: Head coach Pat Shurmur said the starters will play at least the first half against the Eagles. Look for them to play well into the third quarter. Pro Bowl WR/KR Josh Cribs (hamstring) returned to the practice field this week. He is questionable for tonight’s contest. LG Eric Steinbach (back) and RB Brandon Jackson (toe) are still out. Left tackle Joe Thomas inked a huge seven-year, $84 million contract extension that will keep him in Cleveland for another decade. Thomas is excited about the extension and the Browns’ direction under Shurmur. "We're already seeing great strides. We're going to throw the ball and attack defenses. I like having an offensive head coach (in Shurmur). He's another reason I wanted to stay." EAGLES: Coach Andy Reid said QB Michael Vick and the rest of the starters will play the entire first half and at least the first series of the third quarter versus the Browns. RB Ronnie Brown has just 47 yards on 15 carries in two preseason games, but the former Dolphins first-round pick said it's just a matter of getting adjusted to a new team and a different system. The Eagles are toying with the possibility of having Brown return kickoffs. THINGS TO REMEMBER: The Eagles are 2-9 SU and 1-10 ATS in final preseason home games since 2000. Reid has been a preseason favorite of more than five points three times in his NFL career. Philadelphia is 0-3 ATS in those games. Washington Redskins at Baltimore Ravens (-5.5, 33.5) STARTER REPORT REDSKINS: Redskins coach Mike Shanahan would not reveal who will start at quarterback against Baltimore, but he said that both Rex Grossman and John Beck will work with the starters. Grossman says he notices a difference now that he's entering a third year in this offensive system. Being able to start three games in 2010 helped, too. "You have more ease about everything," he said. "That's what I'm feeling." Facing an aggressive defense this week should be good for Beck. His longest pass against Indianapolis was only 16 yards in the air as the Colts played a lot of two-deep zone, forcing underneath throws. Baltimore's aggressive style provides more time for downfield tosses. RAVENS: Coach John Harbaugh said the plan tonight is to play the starters into the third quarter, possibly through three quarters. He added that veterans such as LB Ray Lewis, S Ed Reed, OLB Terrell Suggs and DT Haloti Ngata will not play very long. DC Chuck Pagano has blitzed and mixed coverages up this preseason, even after he told reporters he’d keep things vanilla. “We kind of expected it, that’s Chuck’s personality,” OLB Jarret Johnson said. “I can’t believe he said he was going to be vanilla.” THINGS TO REMEMBER: Baltimore is 4-1 SU and ATS the last five meetings in this series during the preseason since 2005. Shanahan has been a preseason dog of more than five points on six different occasions in his NFL career. His teams managed to win all six games straight-up.

Take these reports with a grain of salt. He's been inaccurate all throughout the preseason.

[BarkingToad]

Good stuff Rich & 12.

[Glitch]

nice twelve.

[twelvejewelz]

New Orleans Saints at Oakland Raiders (+4.5, 38.5)
STARTER REPORT

RAIDERS: Oakland coach Hue Jackson wouldn’t say how long he’ll play his starters on Sunday against the Saints, but, judging by the general rule of thumb, bettors should count on the Raiders’ first-string offense playing the entire first half and maybe a drive or two in the third quarter.

Newly signed rookie quarterback Terrelle Pryor is not expected to play against New Orleans but Jackson did say he’d give Pryor a few snaps in the Raiders’ exhibition finale.

That means Oakland will stick to its regular QB rotation, with Jason Campbell leading the first team offense and Trent Edwards and Kyle Boller backing up the former Redskin.

Campbell had to leave last week’s 17-3 loss to the Niners after getting knocked in the head, but he was back in practice on Tuesday and has been playing with Oakland’s starters all week.

SAINTS: New Orleans head coach Sean Payton told reporters his primary starters would play the first half “and then we’ll see where we are at halftime to see what we’re going to do in the third quarter.”

INJURY REPORT

The Saints will be without starters Lance Moore (WR), Roman Harper (S) and Sedrick Ellis (DT). The Raiders, meanwhile, won’t have newly signed CB Lito Sheppard or starting LB Rolando McClain suiting up Sunday.

Running back Darren McFadden has been the star of the Raiders' camp but it’s unclear whether the Pro Bowler will see any preseason action because of how important he is to the offense. He broke his orbital bone at the start of August and only recently returned to full practices.

PRESEASON PERFORMANCE

Silver and Black backers hope the club’s play in the preseason isn’t a sign of things to come. The Raiders have been uneven on offense and defense, losing to the Niners and Cardinals so far.

Oakland’s biggest weakness so far is its run defense. The unit gave up 239 yards on the ground last week to San Fran and allowed over four yards per carry against Arizona, too.

The Saints looked great in Week 1 but not as sharp last weekend against the Texans. Houston gained over 400 yards, most of which came against New Orleans’ first-string defense.

THING TO REMEMBER

New Orleans is 4-0 SU and ATS in its last four Week 3 preseason games. The third week of the preseason is generally when starters play the most and coaches actually do a bit of game planning.

The Raiders, on the other hand, are 0-3 SU and ATS in their last three Week 3 preseason games and were outscored 97-31 in the process, including a 45-7 beatdown at the hands of the Saints two years ago.

[rm18]

whats the deal this week?