Today is the big day. Around 7pm tonight on the Prairie we will know just what kind of a new year we will have. The Chiefs will have boarded a flight home, either the first winner of 2007... or just another loser.

Hall of Fame quarterback Len Dawson has been open to talk karma! “It’s been 37 years since the Chiefs went to the Super Bowl,” said Dawson, “That’s a long time. And they’ve had times when they thought it would be their year. The breaks haven’t gone their way. Maybe this year it’ll be different. Who knows?”

Bottom line is it's a hard business in a sometimes spiteful world. Win a Super Bowl and you will be immortalized. Fail and you just might be vilified. Payton Manning doesnt just want to be remembered as just a 92-52 as a starter in the regular season. Big deal, his critics already say. He's 3-6 in the playoffs. His own high regular season achievement is already obscured by playoff failure. Manning and Dungy can't win the big one. They are saying it already.

Trent Green has had his success too. He hasnt made the playoffs as often as his adversary Payton Manning. He may be ready to have a break out game. It may be karma. Here’s how it works: All the good things you’ve done or had done to you, and all the bad things you’ve done and or had done to you, the universe takes stock of them and then looks to balance them all out.

BILL REITER and The Kansas City Star cited here:

Some fellar named Steve MacDonald believes. Heck, he can sense it. He can feel the fact you Chiefs guys are due, and ya know... he’s read Arsenio Hall’s palm on national television! He toured the Chiefs Stadium the other day just... feeling! We got his impressions here! Yep, Yehaw, we got us some quotable quotes:

Impression #1"I think Lamar (Hunt)’s looking over the team,” MacDonald said. “This was his pet project. His energy is very much around."

Impression #2
"Trent Green — “His karma is pretty darn good, he’s done a lot of good stuff for the world.”

Impression #3
"Larry Johnson — “He’s a very powerful person who can spark energy in the crowd. That’s big for karma.”

Impression #4
As he turned and looked at the huge empty parking lot, the place that so many boisterous happy fans fill on game days. “There,” he said, “that is the energy. That energy doesn’t disappear into the universe. It’s here.” saying again, “Their energy is still here, even now.”


Back to me:
Karma or not. This team has the talent to pull this off. They have the stars aligned to get this reward. They just need to line up take the field and put in the effort. "The only game that matters is the last one." So they need the mindset, the determination and the where with all to do it, accept it and relish in the consequences. The Pittsburgh Steelers did it. Will we?
Are we ready to march that road to the next game on this our fabulous adventure!

Now The Colts are 0-3 during the postseason under coach Tony Dungy when they are minus in giveaway to takeaway differential. Now get this: the first eight games, Colts were plus-10 in giveaway to takeaway differential and went 8-0. Recently over the past eight games, they have gone minus-3 and 4-4. Advantage Kansas City.
Same thing expressed a different way: The Colts rank fourth in the NFL with just 19 giveaways on offense but are tied for 21st in the league for takeaways with only 26. If our defense can force that offense to turn it over twice, it could mean the difference. if Trent Green fires another interception it could kill us, replace him when neccessary!

My prediction:
Kansas City 27- Indy 24!

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Saturday, it Could be the Day Larry has Been Waiting All His Life For

What do YOU think?
Omigod, Have you read the stats on the Indianapolis Colts? This 2006 Colts team allowed an absolutely amazining 2,768 rushing yards in 16 games. They havent given up so much real estate to NFL foes in 20 years. This years struggling defense allowed 5.3 yards per carry, (listening Larry?) the second-highest total since 1978 and the very worthless 1996 New Orleans Saints allowed 6.1 yards per. Heck the Colts allowed 375 yards rushing during one game against Jacksonville.

Lots of people are asking the big question, Can we just line up and run for 5.3 every time and never toss the ball? It is the big debate in every bar and outside a lot of churches too. I heard two women discussing it over the tomatoes on the produce aisle at Price Chopper!

Chiefs Analyst and Hall of Fame quarterback, Len Dawson, was asked if it could happen.“I don’t think you could run it every down,” Dawson says he knows about this firsthand. His old team back in 1968, configured a scheme. Hank Stram was struggling to protect his inury plagued receivers going into an always nasty game against the hated Oakland Raiders. Coach Hank came up with the two tight ends, he also lined up three running backs behind Dawson to run the ball, incessantly. He said in that game the Raiders Defense was too prideful to change make the adjustments. They refused to load up the line of scrimmage.

Oh yeah, the Chiefs won the game 24-10, but no, in the end they couldnt run every down. Len Dawson, after a good warm up, threw the ball three times. Ponder that. Can we beat that record? I myself have to wonder, the way Trent was tossing up the picks last week and tripped over the ball, offering up three turnovers himself! It would be such a tempting record to break, think, on Indianapolis artificial home turf, wouldnt it be particularly sweet. They would talk about it for decades... if we won. Larry would enjoy the ink!

Hey, maybe its not THE plan for Saturday, they might have some play action to toss in the mix. But Herm, remember, ya gotta make them stop the run first... right? LOL!


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Without a Doubt! The Biggest Win of the Year!

There were miracles AFTER miracles happening for the almost forgotten 2006 Kansas City Chiefs! The teams final game with the Jacksonville Jaguars turned out to be the nastiest, toughest, smash mouth game on the schedule.

Larry Johnson got his yards, (138 in 33 atts) and his records... most carries in an NFL season and most yards by Chief in a Season. It was special teams player Bernard Pollard's blocked punt returned for a touchdown, in the first quarter, that helped to set the tone for this truly memorable struggle. Trent Green turned in his best performance in weeks, if you dont count his three turnovers that almost cost the team the season. He was 14 of 21 passing with a TD and 2 INTs (and a fumble).

Jacksonville battled, again and again, literally as well as figuratively. The Kansas City defense though rose to the occasion to put down the hammer when it counted. Oh yeah, can we hear it now for that "makeshift" O-line? This ragtag bunch of thrown together "also rans", these were the guys who struggled weekly against all pro defenses and bad press, and gave their all to MAKE SURE that LJ was a star- again THIS season? They deserve some credit... right Larry?

After this, if Larry decides to take some more money and run... I say "Good Riddance".

Coach line up, you deserve some credit for doing the impossible, I hope your New Year celebration goes on for weeks! Thank You Sir!

I have to say thank you too -to Bill Cowher for a great career at Pittsburgh. Also the New England Patriots for doing what they had to do. But, finally the mixed emotions regarding the Denver Broncos... God, SF did well, didnt they? Smile.
This last game though was bitter sweet,. Yes, New Years held its sad news, Broncos CB Derrent Williams who just finished his 2nd NFL season, was shot- in a drive by... and killed- while leaving a night club last night, new years eve. My heart and prayers go out to his Family and to everyone associated with the Denver Broncos

More to come.
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Oakland will attempt to bring their "A" game to Kansas City. Since missing eight games with a concussion, QB Trent Green will finally return as the starting quarterback. Look for the Raiders to come fast and all day after him. Green's arm is alive again, but you wonder if his receivers will be of any to help him.

Green's man (probably) will be Dante Hall. But, DE Derrick Burgess has eight sacks and he is hungry for more. He is an emotional player, he got into a screaming fit with QB Andrew Walter last Sunday, after he saw Walter hanging his head, forlorn and defeated.
QB Aaron Brooks starts for the Raiders.

The Chiefs, will be going for their seventh straight over the Raiders today, and some good news, Gonzalez and guard Brian Waters are planning to come back Thursday vs. Denver. Hopefully OUR defense will hold its own to defeat this team feeding on the energy of the crowd alone!

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Well my Ducks "quacked" Under the Pressure Last Night!

They got blown out at the homecoming game for the USC Trojans and blew any chance at taking the Pac-10 title. Oh well, former Ducks Maurice Morris is running well for the Seahawks... and then there is former Duck Joey Harrington starting for the Miami Dolphins against our Kansas City Chiefs today at noon. I guess I gotta hope Joey has even more unfortunate luck throwing the ball against our defense. He will bring his 64.6 passer rating against the Chiefs #8 pass defense in the AFC. Actually, Miami has a better pass defense according to the statistics, they are third in the AFC averaging opponents only 176.3 yards of success.

Roll on Red Warriors
but roll with an attitude!



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Yesterday it was my chance to say that I hoped that Damon Huard had a big part in any big win on the Dolphins home field this Sunday. It will be an important piece in his career if we can get him the satisfaction of beating his former team with another outstanding offensive performance, as a team!

The following has excerpts from a piece in the Miami newspaper this morning.

Jeff Darlington is a staff contributor to the Miami Herald. The photo above is from the archives at google.com


QB Huard was Marino's choice
BY JEFF DARLINGTON
jdarlington@MiamiHerald.com

So maybe Hall of Fame quarterback Dan Marino knew a thing or two about evaluating the talent of other quarterbacks after all.

When Damon Huard returns Sunday to South Florida with the NFL's second-best passer rating as the Kansas City Chiefs' quarterback, it will serve as yet another painful reminder of the Dolphins' dreadful search for Marino's successor.

...former coach Dave Wannstedt chose Jay Fiedler as the starter in 2000 despite Marino's persistent lobbying for Huard to serve as his successor, it certainly could be argued that the team moved in the wrong direction....

'I'm going to stay out of that one,'' said defensive end Jason Taylor, asked by Kansas City media whether the rest of the locker room in 2000 thought Huard should have started over Fiedler. ``That's Dan's opinion, and I don't totally disagree with him. But I'm going to stay out of that one. I'm not going to walk into this...

...Daunte Culpepper continued his rehabilitation process, but he did not practice Wednesday.
...Linebacker Zach Thomas wore a red jersey during practice, signifying he was limited. Saban said he was suffering from a migraine headache.
...Cornerback Eddie Jackson (ankle) practiced without limitations.

*************************************************************************

Lets hope it all works out with a win, no matter how we get there!

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Who to Watch this Weekend in the Dolphin Game

PLAYMAKER: Defensive end Jason Taylor, who scored on an interception return Sunday ...has eight sacks on the season! He is one of the few Dolphins playing up to expectations.

According to the Miami newspapers, there are only two players on the Dolphins roster who are performing to or above expectations -- one is pictured above, Jason Taylor. (the guy making the touchdown!) He has quietly acquired those eight sacks to lead his teams defensive line. Wes Welker, is the other number mentioned. Surprisingly, he leads the Miami team totaling 41 receptions.

The paper also names OT Vernon Carey, a 3yr veteran from Miami of Florida, as the most consistent offensive lineman. It then recognized the 16yr veteran Keith Traylor, DT, who has been particularly formidable against the run this year, and the up and coming young Safety Yeremiah Bell who has made his big plays despite limited opportunities, they both got honorable mentions.

It look like these are the faces to concentrate on Sunday in Miami.

They each should have targets placed on their backs this week during the Chiefs practice sessions. It would be fine if Jarad Allen and Tamba Hali were to outshine this fellow, this Jason Taylor, in his own front yard! If Kennison wants his recognition in the league, he too should use this stage to demonstrate his skills and help lead this team to its fourth victory in four games.

Damon Huard though, really, I wish him well. I want his teamates to give their all to present them an offense that will shine in front of Huard's former hometown crowd!!! I believe that he got his first win on the field for the Dolphins, if I am not mistaken, and I would love for this to be his most shining start- this time for the loyal opposition, the Kansa City Chiefs!!

Good Luck Boys!!

Roll on red Warriors!!


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Who will Survive the NFL heat, in Miami this week?

Interesting, The Miami Dolphins are in 14th position in the NFL defense stats, letting up 102 ypg. Is this good news for the Chiefs Larry Johnson? You bet.
The Kansas City Chiefs, are down at 16th, letting up 113yds. Maybe, Ronnie Brown, the Dolphins featured back, is liking this idea as well.


So. Who will shake out and have the premium performance on Sunday afternoon in the 80 plus degree heat?

Our own, Larry Johnson has been more open this season, verbally and in attitude. The media this week is sharing how Larry thought his offense lost an opportunity to gain even more than the 172 yds rushing that was his season high. He seems to be building, physically, emotionally and in attitude. Larry seems to be evolving into the 'Ol Larry of '05, getting determined, maybe frustrated.

Perhaps the fact that LT in San Diego just happened to match his 172 yds with 172 of his own is frustrating him. I wonder, butthat is a good thing, let him get angrier in the coming weeks, more and more mad, leading up to their second head to head matchup in southern California!

Maybe he will peak then with a little more motivation!

What do you think?


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The Chiefs need that Respect-from St. Louis.

In a conference call Wednesday with some St. Louis reporters, Larry Johnson made some news.

Johnson has been very open, and is more relaxed when facing the media this year. He made the big story this week when he impersonated his head Coach Herm Edwards on Halloween Eve. He was hillarious, the new LJ emerged for all to see. The whole country was asking what has gotten into Larry Johnson?

It was different in this interview with the St. Louis press he made a somewhat another impression. He "talked tough, saying, among other things that he doesn't get hit — he gives out hits — at running back." This statement not only drew the attention of the press, but also the Rams players. They were embarrased last week by LaDanian Tomlinson of the San Diego Chargers when he lit them up for over 200 yards. They don't intend to let Johnson, the second leading rusher in the league do it for a second week in a row.

LaRoi' Glover, the Rams defensive tackle responded with, "Obviously, he has a pretty high opinion of himself. But he does run hard. I'll leave it at that." Trying hard not to show his contempt for such a brazen remark. Rams defensive end Leonard Little added this piece of speculation: "...we already know what they're going to try to do to us ...we gave up 200-something rushing (yards against San Diego), ...So why not run the ball every play?"

Other Rams chimed in. "What they (San Diego) did to us hit our pride, and guys are taking it personal," defensive tackle Jimmy Kennedy said. "We have to go out there and stop the Chiefs." He added, "LT is a little bit faster and quicker," Little said. "But their styles are similar because both of them break tackles and can take it the distance any time. ... I think (Johnson) is more physical. He's a bigger guy, and he's more patient, and when he gets downhill, he's hard to bring down."

St. Louis Coach Scott Linehan put it all together, calling Larry Johnson, '...one of the premier backs in the league" saying, "Larry Johnson is going to get yards in the game on Sunday." "What you can't do is give up the big, big plays, and that's what we've got to get better at." He then made note that Tony Gonzales is "arguably the best tight end in the league," that, "We've got our work cut out for us when it comes to taking that on, just because it was the same problem we had last week."

So just what is his remedy? After a 4-1 start, the Rams defense piled up 15 turnovers! That defense produced only one takeaway total in two of their three losses, to Seattle and San Diego. Defensive co-ordinator Jim Haslett's defense team is getting back to basics- create turnovers this week. Ram safety, Corey Chavous said, "We didn't do that the last couple of weeks as much as we would've liked. I think that's something that's still the mantra of our defense, and something we plan on continuing to make happen."

Lets just hope it doesnt happen this week!
Instead, lets show them what a defense does!



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St Louis Rams, are next up... so Roll on, You Red Warriors!!

Whoa, who is that leaning against the wall at Ram Park... over there, by the soda machine? That, thats uh, nah, cant be... it's Denzel Washington!!!

Washington was in town yesterday to get a look at his son, the rookie running back J.D. Washington who is on the Rams' practice squad. J.D. said he knew his dad was dropping in for a visit but "...was kind of surprised ...I didn't think he was going to be here for practice." When asked as he was leaving the field Denzel just offered that "I'm just here for my son," smiling.

Coach Scott Linehan was impressed "he's here to see his son, just like any other father would be," Linehan then added, "Hopefully, he's a good luck charm for us."

The Rams, who have lost their last two games, meet the Kansas City Chiefs at noon Sunday at the Edward Jones Dome. ESPN Sportswriter Ron, "Jaws" Jaworski is the only staff writer picking the Chiefs to upset the Rams on Sunday afternoon... The latest line is the Rams are 2.5 point favorites, with the over/under point total 48.

I agree with you Jaws, we'll score at least 25
...and come away with the upset!!
Mark it down!




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Whats the big deal, just whatssa Governors Cup?

[not the cup!]

Kansas City Chiefs Coach Herm Edwards was asked What do you know about the Governor’s Cup?


His reply:

“I know it’s a big cup and was sitting out in the front. At first it was brought to my attention that it was done in the preseason, but it goes for the regular season too. We have the Cup and we have to try and keep the Cup. I know Lamar (Hunt) likes that. He’s a traditional guy and it’s kind of unique to have something like that, like in college football and (winning the) Jug and all that other stuff. I know at Cal it was the Axe and we were always trying to take the Axe away from Stanford. We took the Axe away a lot. Now it’s the Governor’s Cup.”



Then it was starting quarterback Damon Huards' turn at the media questions... He was asked: Is the Governor’s Cup (Kansas City vs. St. Louis) bigger than the Apple Cup (Washington vs. Washington State)?

“Yeah, I think so. I think this is a pretty big rivalry. I’ve seen it in preseason games and now I get to see it for the first time in the regular season.”




This morning, ELIZABETH MERRILL of the The Kansas City Star, writes:

"The most precious piece of metal in Missouri this week sits on the edge of the counter in the lobby at Arrowhead Stadium, next to a potted plant, a miniature flag and some fliers for Tony Gonzalez’s football camp.

There’s smudge marks on the front from a very large set of mitts. But this thing is important, because it represents state pride, Show-Me superiority, and 10 months of bragging rights."

Merrill offers more later in the article:

“I really couldn’t care less about the Governor’s Cup other than the fact that we win the game,” veteran defensive end Eric Hicks said. “No disrespect to the governor, but we’re just trying to win the game. I don’t even know who goes around and accepts the trophy. I can’t say as I’ve ever touched the Governor’s Cup.

*************************************************************************

The fact is this game VERY important for both teams. They are both sitting at 4-3 on the season. Both teams have road games next weekend. I guess this one is more important to the Chiefs, they must secure some road victories to bring fruit to their dream season, and make the playoffs.

*************************************************************************
Quote of the week!

"The only contact he'll get is I'm going to hug him."

by Chiefs coach Herm Edwards, on how much contact QB Trent Green will need before his first start.
************************************************************************

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It cannot work Twice in this First Half of the Season, Can it???

St. Louis Rams coach Scott Linehan is somewhat optimistic about facing the Chiefs this week.

"We have to look at it as coaches and, give the team the best chance we can, we have to put guys into position to succeed... we have to play better.”

He admits the Chiefs can run the ball quite well,

Linehan says it will be a “...Tough challenge this week because we’re playing a team that’s playing well as of late and has real similar qualities to the team we just played.”

He is reminded how LaDainian Tomlinson shined last week against his team, about just how good he was. Tomlinson rushed for a season high 183 yards against the Rams. He also scored three touchdowns to lead the San Diego Chargers to a 38-24 win over those same Rams. Can Larry Johnson coming to town now be a concern for him?

Linehan, this morning also knows that.... there was a Ram, Stephen Davis, who fumbled last Sunday. That one was returned immediately by a thankful, solid SD defense for a touchdown: the coach admits “It was a pretty big play in the game... Big turnover. Again, it wasn’t the only mistake in the game, it certainly changed the whole outlook in that game.”

This guy Linehan cloaks all this "disappointment" with even more "concern" this week. You see, The Rams are up for this competition this week as we vie for the much coveted... Governors Cup! The winner of course, procuring bragging rights for a year! It serves to keep alight that eternal flame of interstate rivalry between Missouri and Kansas!

This last Linehan rant though, sends shivers of awe up my spine! Doesnt it to you? I still remember how those Pittsburgh Steelers coaches were vocal, also worried about all this and concerned about that! They too looked at everything darkly, producing such an effort to look so melancholy, right before they ripped us one in the Steel City.

Listening Chiefs D???

This coach, Linehan, is trying sing each of you a sweet lullaby, just to get you to a little sleepy... again, for his Rams! Just, this time, guys please get alot of rest before this game- its not a long road trip, just down the highway actually!

Now, hope and pray that they dont try the ol'-
"lets get some beautiful women together and sell them discounted sex toys at a quiet rest stop just outside St Louis" routine,

-that tired ol' deceitful ploy that worked so well against us a few short weeks ago in the Pittsburgh Airport!

That was dirty pool guys, right, just don't forget how it took the heart out of us!


C'mon, please!
Focus, focus, focus...
then...

Roll on Red Warriors!


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Careful Larry... Do Not -Put your Feet in your Mouth!

Chiefs running back Larry Johnson spoke up when talking to Fox Sports News writers this week.

The Chiefs page @ fox sports is quoted here as writing that:

The Chiefs offense is back. The 499 offensive yards against Seattle, which followed a 355-yard day the previous week, are evidence the adjustment period that came with a new head coach, new offensive coordinator and new quarterback is ending.

"That's what happens when you get everybody together," running back Larry Johnson said. "If you get all those weapons together at the same time, we can be unstoppable."
**************************************************************************
Now come on Larry, dont get all full of yourself after one home game, a game that you had to win. It was a game filled with blunders that happened to come up with a Chiefs face on them when the dice were rolled.
Larry, we could have lost that game on several occasions, you have seen the film by now! Larry, this team showed great determination, but a massive lack of concentration- now, you have to admit that.
That lack of concentration will not be as tolerable, and even to say, not tolerated, in the Chiefs bid for the Governor's Cup or bowl or whatever its called. Yes, St Louis has lost a few recently, they have had their injuries but they are in no way as decimated as was Seattle.

Please do not get on any high horse thinking that "all those weapons together" will be such an easy option to display two games in a row, in front of a hostile crowd. If anything this game will take even more "monster" concentration if the Chiefs expect to pull out of Missouri with yet another win! Bulger is quite hot, as is Stephen Davis- Trouble ahead.

You have to turn up the tempo and temperature again to get the
Red Warriors on a roll again!


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Is Holmgren on the hot seat? Check this!

Defense sinks to the occasion

By TED MILLER
P-I COLUMNIST

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- None other than Mike Holmgren set up the story line for the Seahawks last week.

The Kansas City game wasn't about backup quarterback Seneca Wallace making his first NFL start. It was, he said, about 21 other guys stepping up and doing their jobs well so the loss of Matt Hasselbeck for at least three weeks wouldn't cripple a season that began with such promise.

Holmgren said the next few games would be "very much a measure of what your team is really like at its core."

After suffering a loony 35-28 defeat to the Chiefs in which they were battered in every statistical category -- except bizarre plays -- it's clear the Seahawks' core is ailing and frustrated.

Particularly on defense.

Remember when the offense struggled early in the season and the optimistic party line was the improved defense would pick up the slack? Remember when the Seahawks gave up just 507 yards combined in their first two games?

Kansas City piled up 499 yards Sunday, slipping below the 500-yard mark only after kneeling to kill the clock on the final two plays.

The Chiefs' 30 first downs doubled the Seahawks. They had nearly a 25-minute advantage in time of possession, their 42:15 with the ball being the franchise's best total since 1997. They produced 11 plays of 15 or more yards and four of 25 or more.

Despite an injured groin, Damon Huard, Trent Green's backup, passed for 312 yards and finished with an eye-popping 124.1 quarterback rating. Larry Johnson ran for 155 yards. The Seahawks secondary made Eddie Kennison look like Marvin Harrison.

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The Chiefs entered the game averaging 294.5 total yards and 99 yards rushing per game, so they are not a dominant offense merely extracting their pound of flesh.

On a day when the defense needed to assert itself, it appeared overmatched and outschemed by a second-tier team.

"They were running and throwing and we didn't get them stopped," understandably grumpy defensive coordinator John Marshall said before hustling out of the locker room.

"I've got to watch the film before you start blaming the scheme or the players. You need to take a look at the film. That's not fair to anybody."

Here's what Marshall will see when he cues up that film, which he might want to save for Halloween, because it might be no less frightening than "The Exorcist":

Marshall will see missed tackles from nearly every Seahawk. He'll see players unable to get off blocks being driven backward. He'll see wide-open receivers on the flanks and over the middle. He'll see the Chiefs repeatedly converting on third-and-long.

He won't see a pass rush. He won't see an interception.

He won't see players making plays.

"I don't know what's going on," said cornerback Kelly Herndon, presenting a frustrated shoulder shrug that typified the postgame reaction.

"We're a fine defense. We get to the ball. But we've got to wrap up and get guys down. ... We haven't been tackling very well and we have to do better on our communication and make sure everybody is being smart and understanding what they need to do."

In terms of talent, this defense is better than last year's bunch, which gave up 316.8 yards per game. It's mostly healthy, certainly more healthy than it was at points in 2005, when it only twice surrendered more than 400 yards.

"It's not that everybody is living on last year but everybody is giving us their best shot," linebacker Lofa Tatupu said.

Even stalwarts such as Tatupu struggled. On a first-and-goal from the Seahawks 9-yard line with less than a minute before the half, Johnson hauled in a dump from Huard over the middle and ran through Tatupu's attempted tackle for a touchdown that gave the Chiefs a 20-14 lead at the break.

On their first possession of the second half, the Chiefs went 88 yards in 13 plays -- 12 of them runs.

The Seahawks yielded four touchdown drives of 74 or more yards.

Asked about his defense after the game, Holmgren twice requested confirmation that his inquisitor was talking about the unit "right now?" Er, yes, when else?

It felt as if he was trying to create a buffer between his real emotions and how he wanted to answer the question.

"I thought we would have played these guys a little bit better," he then replied mildly.

Concerned last week about defensive struggles -- particularly receivers sneaking behind the secondary and making big plays -- Holmgren benched safety Michael Boulware and replaced him with Jordan Babineaux.

It didn't seem to work, particularly when Kennison, after a pump fake from Huard, sneaked by cornerback Marcus Trufant and safety Ken Hamlin on a 51-yard completion that set up the game-winning touchdown.

"We had practiced the pump (throw) and they fell right into our hands," Kennison said.

There's only so much the Seahawks can do as far as personnel changes. And they shouldn't have to resort to that. The talent is there. The present malaise is caused by something else, but no one was willing or able to volunteer potential solutions in the postgame locker room.

Here's a hint: 11 players and the defensive coaching staff will find the problem if they look in the mirror.


*******************************************************
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NFL suspends Seahawks' Locklear for one game

By CLARE FARNSWORTH
P-I REPORTER

KIRKLAND -- Seahawks tackle Sean Locklear was suspended for one game today for violating the NFL personal conduct policy.

The suspension stems from a domestic violence charge for assaulting his girlfriend in January. Locklear reached an agreement with prosecutors in July to serve two years of community service.

Because of the suspension, Locklear will not play in Sunday's game against the Chiefs in Kansas City. He cannot rejoin the team until Monday.

With Locklear out, Tom Ashworth will start at right tackle. It will be his first start for the Seahawks, who signed the former starter for the New England Patriots in the offseason.



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The Seattle Post Intelligencer is worried too!

By CLARE FARNSWORTH
P-I REPORTER

Seahawks head into 'House of Horrors'
Seattle revisits its AFC West roots, starting with a visit to Kansas City


KIRKLAND -- Just mention Kansas City to Steve Largent and the Hall of Fame wide receiver laughs.

Not a ha-ha laugh, but one of those uncomfortable laugh-so-you-don't-cry chuckles.

"Kansas City," Largent said this week. "We always had a tough time in Kansas City, even when we were good. We were 12-2 one year (1984) and went into Kansas City and they beat us up pretty good (34-7).

"It's just a really tough place to play."

Especially for the Seahawks. Arrowhead Stadium always has been their own House of Horrors, and that's where they play Sunday to kick off a reunion tour against their old AFC West rivals...

...When you play a team twice a year, for all those years, you get to know your competitors better. Even on a personal level," Largent said. "So in some respects, although it may sound odd, it takes away a little of that animosity feel.

"But it didn't take away any of the intensity. In fact, it might have enhanced it."

Offense is not the Only Concern for Holmgren and the Seahawks in '06

Mike Holmgren has more than a few Concerns. He usually is an offensive minded coach and he isnt interested too much in the defensive side of the ball. He lets his other staff handle that. This year, he, like all the Seahawk fans, is expressing concern.

Yes, this year Holmgren thinks he has seen enough and wants some answers.

"I'm a little puzzled as to why certain things happen at times during the game," Holmgren said. "I have to find out why that's happening." A recurrent subject of Holmgren's trauma seems to be opposing quarterbacks hitting deep passes against them, all too often, over his secondary.
The Seahawks defense allowed only 43 passes of 20yds or more last year. This year with more than half the season remaining, the secondary has allowed 40 already. They have already matched the number of 30+yd passes as well at 15.

The run defense as well has been vulnerable to the big play. Things are looking good for Chiefs running back Larry Johnson this week. The Seahawks allowed only 34 10+yd runs last runs in their run at the super bowl. Today the number is near drastic, it stands at 49 thus far. Even larger looms the fact that those 20+yd scampers are happening all too frequently as well, 10 to this point, (2per game!) while last yrs club yielded 6 all year long.

All this could, no SHOULD, spell success on both sides of the ball in Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday morning. The safeties are simply unable to cover what they once handed routinely. The linebacking core is also getting a long hard look. Holmgren is not opposed
to making changes as necessary.

Please Mike, wait a week!

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Seahawks Post Help Wanted Signs!

The Seattle Seahawks are worried about coming to Arrowhead with only Seneca Wallace for a quarterback. Wallace has waited 3.5 yrs to make his first NFL start. Now Mike Holmgren knows there is some "tinkering" to do with the offensive scheme this week.

He and his football team must make adjustments.

Matt Hasselbeck the quarterback who lead the Seahawks to the Superbowl last year has now resigned himself to the facts. He will be missing three to four weeks as the leader of his football team, that's because the magnetic resonance imaging test done on his knee Monday morning showed that he had received a grade-2 sprain of the medial collateral ligament in the Seahawks' 31-13 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. He thinks Seneca will make the proper adjustments.

I think our guys are going to rally around him," Hasselbeck said. "He's a very popular guy in the locker room. He's a very talented quarterback, and everyone knows that.

"As upset as I am at not being out there, I'm excited that he's going to get the chance to play and show what he can do." when asked, speaking of Wallace stepping in.

"I'm going to do everything that I can (to help him), without getting in the way," Hasselbeck said.

Others are more concerned. "I can't imagine a more difficult situation for this kid to make his first start," a scout for one AFC team said Monday. This scout has seen the blitz packages that Kansas City has thrown at opponents in recent weeks. While Wallace sees it differently, "I am not the person that is going to get nervous or uptight about anything," said Wallace. He threw as many passes (25) against the Vikings after taking over for Hasselbeck as he had in his first three seasons with the team!

So, the Seahawks will bring in a few quarterbacks for tryouts today, but they're looking for a veteran to supplement Wallace and No. 3 David Greene.

Wallace though may fit into the stealthful plans of Jared Allen and Tamba Hali. Seneca Wallace is quicker, faster and more elusive. But at 5 feet 11, he often needs all those traits to create a passing lane. Oh Yeah? Bingo. Sack City. Hey linebackers- have fun with the smashmouth game.

Shawn Alexander has not suited up for practice this week. He will not play.

Soooo, Get ready.
Roll on Red Warriors!





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KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman will be suspended four games for violating the NFL substance abuse policy, sources close to Merriman said. One source said Merriman, last season's NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, is appealing the results and that there is "a reason behind this." Of course he replied to all this in spite of the team policy. "Per the collective bargaining agreement, the Chargers aren't allowed to comment on reports or results involving the league's substance abuse policy," Reminded Chargers spokesman Bill Johnston on Sunday night.

The 22-year-old Merriman, last year's NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, was initially to be suspended last week along with two other players. Ok, I gotta wonder, it makes the victory so much sweeter- Did Merriman have a foreknowledge of this while playing his heart out yesterday afternoon at Arrowhead? Excuse me, while I am ROFL!!!!

There is no mistake.
Chris Mortensen of ESPN reported last night that Merriman's positive test was "definitely for steroids … not one of those supplement deals," said a source with knowledge of Merriman's suspension. Both the initial A sample and backup B sample came back positive."

Eric Allen, a valued contributor for ESPN had a great take on this development. He is quoted here as saying,
"But is it worth what he's now going to go through? This is a kid who presumably wanted to one day be mentioned in the same breath as luminaries like Mike Singletary, Dick Butkus, Ray Lewis and Lawrence Taylor. Now he stands a much better chance of being mentioned in the same breath as Brian Bosworth and Tony Mandarich."

Scathing comments, just burning man!
And oh sooooo true!!!

Damn too bad we don't get them in SD until after the suspension!
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Chargers are in Town, You Up for It?

Well, its nice to be back! I had a tough week with the family at one of those huge "lets get together and love on another family functions", it didnt work! I can only hope the game today will be a battle that brings a smile to this aging heart.

About the Chargers. They want to try to take the crowd out of the action early at Arrowhead. Marty, of "Martyball" fame knows well the tenacity of the Chiefs at home. He remembers that they come out enraged and engaged when that crowd comes to life on Sunday afternoon. Under those circumstances, it bodes well that the Chargers have one of the league’s best Turnover Ratios, at minus-8. (That is to say… Eight more takeaways than giveaways.) They know well too, that you don’t win at a place like Arrowhead if you commit turnovers, and through five games the Bolts’ offense has done a fine job of holding on to the ball, with just two interceptions and zero lost fumbles. They’ll need to keep it that way, if they intend to get out of kansas City with another victory.

Kansas City has been quite effective in limiting the opposition at the run. In the last seventeen games at Arrowhead Stadium no opposing rusher has hit the 100 yard mark against the Chiefs. If we could maintain that streak today it will go a long way collecting a needed win against a division rival who happens to hold down the number one spot.

When the Chargers have the ball, Philip Rivers will lead the NFL’s third ranked offense on to the field. He will be challenged to distribute the ball, and find the man who’s drawn single coverage or has a mismatch, because the Chiefs are going to be predictively effective in limiting the run. Will the Larry Johnson get fired up, will he wear that target proudly on the front of his jersey and spend the day showing it to them proudly, from the rear as he streaks through the defense?

If the Chiefs are unable to get the running game going, it will free the Chargers to bring an enormous amount of pass pressure. Shaun Phillips (6 sacks) and Shawne Merriman (5.5 sacks) are ranked first and second, in the AFC in sacks, and Damon Huard will be fleeing for his life unless the Chiefs can force the Chargers to respect the run.

It has been a long week, lets hope I can get some well needed rest after the Chiefs upset the 5 point favored Chargers on Sunday afternoon.

We need to get those Red Warriors loosed today!



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