NFL, still a man's game?

By Dan Rodgers

The NFL owners just approved a rule change...that's never a good thing.

The rule moves kickoffs from 30 yard-line to the 35. If you're not a huge football fan then you have no idea the kind of impact this will have on the game. Not to mention, a touchback is still only put at the 20 yard-line. So the kicking team just gained a huge advantage.

I know they are trying to protect player safety, but the owners want an 18 game schedule and that isn't safe. Basically, teams with good return teams (i.e. Bears, Browns, Jets, Seahawks) will be at a huge disadvantage. Not to mention, return specialists like Brad Smith, Devin Hester and Leon Washington become much less valuable.

Ravens kicker Billy Cundiff tied the record for the most touchbacks in a single season this past season. This coming season, whether it's this year or whenever, he and possibly other kickers will shatter that record. Every kickoff that was at the goal line or a yard or two deep in the endzone will now be five to seven yards deep and most likely be touchbacks.

This will also help the defense because there will be more touchbacks and more drives starting from the 20 yard-line.

There isn't much to debate because the rule change has already been implemented. It's just interesting because teams will be changing how they spend their money.

Rodgers That

Powerhouse matchup

By Dan Rodgers

So the game tonight is between two AFC powerhouse teams, Pittsburgh and New England.

This game for a share of the best record in the AFC, 7-2 would tie whoever wins with the New York Jets.

The Pats really need a win to stay pace with the Jets because they already lost the first matchup between the two teams. This game would put Pittsburgh ahead by one game in the AFC North because the Ravens lost on Thursday to Atlanta.

It will be interesting how New England approaches this game defensively after getting man-handled by Cleveland last week. They couldn't stop Peyton Hillis (over 180 yards), and they face another dangerous back this week in Rashard Mendenhall. Mendenhall could have a huge night if the Pats don't key in on him, but if they do it should open up passing lanes for Big Ben against their suspect secondary.

NOTE: Apparently Mendenhall is hurt, which I didn't know...he will have limited carries so it' up to Moore to do work tonight...not a good start though

I see the Pats fighting until the end because of their offense, and Tom Brady will be in "F-U mode*" after being held to 14 points last week against the Browns. However, Pittsburgh has a good defense and should being able to get a few stops.

I'm not sure whether Pittsburgh covers the spread, but I think they'll win at home.

My Prediction: Steelers (-4.5) 26 Pats 20

Rodgers That