Every year the 1972 Dolphins, or at least a good many of them, get together to celebrate when the last undefeated NFL team finally loses a game. Their “perfect season” record is safe for another year.
In my opinion the 2008 Detroit Lions should also have some sort of get-together every year. See, they were the last NFL team to have a WINLESS season. Maybe instead of Champaign and steaks they can enjoy a diet coke and some beanie weenies.
If this fictional celebration would take place one of 2008 Lion team members would be running to the nearest Publix for supplies after Monday night’s game. Lo and behold, the Jaguars and Buccaneers both finally won a game during week 10.
Here’s some quick thoughts on both…
Jacksonville’s QB Chad Henne will probably never make it to a Pro Bowl, but he put together another solid performance on Sunday. With the exception of his complete brain meltdown and 2nd quarter interception he played to a solid PER of 6.875. He also was the victim of 3 pathetic sacks (he will also never be known as a running QB) with only a 6.57 score for his throw accuracy. Give credit to their running game and receivers on offense, solid running and open receivers make it easy for a QB even if he’s not having his best day.
The “real” winners of the game were the Jacksonville front 4 on defense. They were constantly in the Titan’s backfield and helped to produce 3 1st half turnovers. The Jake Locker injury really didn’t have any significant effect.
Now, on to the Bucs – have they finally found a QUARTERBACK?
Mike Glennon becomes only the 6th rookie quarterback to win a Monday night football. For this to be the Bucs first win is even more impressive – lots of pressure when you’re winless in week 10 of the season. Glennon’s PER was a solid 6.865 which is pretty darned good given the pressures of a nationally televised game. His stats were highlighted by a 7.2 score during the game for “Run/Throw Decision”. Aside from his one interception he made solid decisions throughout the game and took care of the ball.
The play of the Bucs defensive line vs. Dolphins offensive line could only be described as a bloodbath and was the real story in the game. On the other side the Bucs offensive line was dominate (finally!), once again, easy for a QB to have a good day when you can establish a solid running game and have plenty of time to throw the ball.
Both of these were very interesting games. Is this a signal for continued success? Probably not. Watching these guys sign free agents and draft players is like watching a monkey throw darts. Their wayward approach to analytics has been mentioned here before, so sorry Bucs and Jags fans, I wouldn’t hope for much during the rest of the season except for a high draft pick. (actually I wouldn’t put too much hope behind those either)
