NFL Quickies

Didn't get to these yesterday, as I wanted to get the snow ramblings up. But, a day late never hurt anyone:

-I had to laugh at how people seemed shocked by the fact that Dan Connolly's 71-yard kickoff return was the longest return by a lineman in NFL history. Really, that was surprising to you? Because I thought the previous high of 28 yards was the shocking statistic. I would have put the number around 5. Lineman may be faster than people think, but not when you compare them to the people who are supposed to be on special teams.

-Speaking of that Patriots' game, I have to think that was Coach Belichick's dream scenario: they won the game, but they played poorly and only pulled out the win because the Packers were playing with an inexperienced back-up QB. So, the Patriots keep on chugging for home-field throughout the AFC playoffs, but Bill still gets to scream at them about not taking plays off or reading their own headlines. For example, I bet no one will be able to pull of a 'surprise on-sides kick' for the rest of this season. Thanks, Mike McCarthy.

-Commissioner Roger Goodell said in an interview that he still has a few things he needs to follow up on before he can officially conclude the investigation in Brett Favre's alleged cell-phone conduct. Funny, a week ago when Favre's career looked over the investigation was all done, but once he was cleared the play against the Bears the investigation still had a few loose ends? Look, Commish, just admit you don't want to suspend the guy and we can all move on. To hand down punishment after he retires just makes it look like you were stalling. (I'm sure that's what you were doing, but you don't want to be so obvious about it.)

-Speaking of quarterbacks who should start thinking about retirement, the Redskins' Donovan McNabb said he felt very 'disrespected' by the way he was benched on Sunday. Since it clearly isn't going to work for McNabb long-term in Washington, may I suggest he sign with the Arizona Cardinals? Maybe the dry, desert air will be good for him. Everyone thought Kurt Warner was finished when he signed there and all he did was solidify a Hall of Fame resume. Look, McNabb couldn't be any worse than what they already have. Plus, if he does stink it isn't like anyone will even remember. Hardly anyone even brings up Emmitt Smith's time there (and with good reason). It's a no-lose situation: if you win with the Cardinals you must be one hell of a player and if you don't then it is simply status quo for that organization.

-Sometimes I wonder if the people in charge of designating what constitutes a "breaking" news story even watch the sports they are assigned. Earlier today it was reported that Terrell Owens is unlikely to be brought back by the Bengals. No kidding. He's 37, a free agent and the team was terrible this year. The only thing that will be shocking to me is if Owens' TV shows are renewed. I haven't even seen them and yet I know in my soul they are just awful.