We'll be doing some more live blogging tonight over at 12StepDrop. It's ESPN's turn at praising Jerry's new stadium tonight, so get on early to enjoy the fellating! We'll get going right around 8:30pm, but in the meantime....let's get those predictions!!!

Carolina Panthers at Dallas Cowboys (ESPN, 8:30pm)- Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Jon Gruden
Line: DALLAS -8.5, O/U 48

Deadspin broke the news on Saturday that Matt Millen would be joining up with ESPN, but today there's even more news on the move. According to USA Today, Matt Millen would not only be on NFL coverage, but he'll be working on some College games as well....

And rationally, you can say Millen is a promising broadcaster because, well, he's already been one: After retiring in 1991 after 12 seasons as a player, his years on CBS and Fox made him a potential successor to John Madden — although nobody really thought Madden would retire.

Instead, Millen will succeed Emmitt Smith, whose fame ultimately couldn't overcome his on-air miscues on Monday night pregame shows. And in also calling college games and making various studio show appearances, Millen won't be hidden away until he proves himself.

And if you buy the idea that the best way to overcome your problem is to shine a light on it rather than try to cover it up, Millen's ideal ESPN debut would come on its NFL Draft coverage Saturday. Wouldn't you love to know the draft prospects that Millen really loves?

ESPN has yet to make this rumored move a reality, but it's definitely a good one. There is the issue of credibility, but after a few months or so, people will probably forget about all of his terrible work with the Lions. Plus, who would you rather have, Millen or Emmitt Smith?

ESPN hires ex-Lions boss Millen as football analyst (USA Today)

You knew the day was coming, but how could you prepare for it? Over the past few years, Emmitt Smith has stuttered, stumbled and made up words, for various programs on ESPN, but next season....that will be no more. ESPN hasn't made an official statement yet, but Pro Football Talk has gotten word from the inside, that Smith has been officially "blowed out" by the "Leader"....

After a two-season run featuring multiple new on-air additions to the English language, the greatest running back in NFL history ultimately has fared no better than Joe Montana as a broadcaster.

Yes, ESPN has advised us that Emmitt’s relationship with the network has ended.

There will be no formal announcement — and presumably no going away party. Or vodka-fueled roast.

“We thank Emmitt for his contributions to ESPN and work ethic the past two years,” ESPN spokesman Bill Hofheimer told us via e-mail. “We wish him all the best.”

Such a sad, sad day. I know that there are times when I wish people weren't on air, but there are some people that you pray stay on just for comedy's sake. Emmitt was one of those people, and I don't know what I'm going to do during Monday Night Football without him. As a tribute to Emmitt, I give you a countdown of my favorite Emmittisms, and the quintessential compilation video of his work. Godspeed my friend, and I hope you find the rites of patches you deserve!

AA's Top Ten Emmittisms:

Honorable Mentions:

"Not only does he have the NFC East record for touchdowns, but also the team record."
"Wes Worker is a possession receiver that make things happen."
"The NFC West is probably one of the weakest conferences in the whole NFC."
"The leadership definitely have to come from the leaders."
"I think it's his self-confidence in himself that make him so confident when it get down into the crunch time."

10. "Last year there was a lot of things the Colts had to address. They couldn't stop the run, and all those. That was one of the biggest things they had to address."
9. "You have to have the personality to match up with the Patriots."
8. "He's giving them all the confidences they need. He giving them the confidence that he need."
7. "They do a very good job of flying around the Football field and carousing the Football carrier."
6. "Don't worry about the game you just won or the team that we just blew out. Uhhh... blown. Blown out. Let's think about what we need to do going forward, and they had blown out."
5. "Eli Manning has been given the rites of patches."
4. "This kind of inconsistency, against a team like New England, will get you completely blowed out."
3. "You cannot change the stripes of a leopard."
2. "Go to Arizona, sharp as a whistle, and do some finishing touches, so we can go down in the Super Bowl and play our best football of the whole entire season."
1. "The strength of the Patriots, their offense, got debacled."



Emmitt Exits ESPN (PFT)
The Emmitt Smith Anthology (Walter Football)

At the beginning of the season, I thought it was a lock that CBS was going to take the NFL "TV Partners Cup" this season, but because of the Brady injury and a "fading Favre", FOX once again won the ratings battle for the year. It was a close race though. I've sifted through the numbers, via SBJ, and here's how they networks came out in the end....

The NFC's channel averaged a little over 17 Million viewers for the year, with NBC clocking in at 16.6, and CBS hitting exactly a 16.2. The interesting thing with the numbers though is that, when compared to the 2007 totals, the only network that did better was NBC. CBS was hit the hardest by being down 2.1, and while FOX was down slightly from last year, NBC actually gained 4.2% in viewers and 2% in the final average rating.

As far as Pregame Shows go, FOX won the overall award with CBS only trailing slightly, as both networks showed gains over 2007. ESPN's Countdowns were the only pregame shows that brought brought in losses (Monday: -4.8%, Sunday: -4.5%), and in its first year, NFL-N's "NFL GameDay Morning" averaged a rather paltry 270,000 viewers.

Other notable numbers:

- Cowboys played in six of the top games on FOX and CBS.
- Steelers played in five.
- ESPN averaged an 8.9 cable rating for its third season of Monday Night Football (up 3.5%).
- The NFL Network averaged a 6.2 cable rating (down 12.7%).
- "The OT" on FOX beat out "Football Night In America" on NBC by an average rating of 6.9 to 4.0.

After the third year of Monday Night Football on ESPN, the trio of Tirico, Jaworski and Kornheiser have definitely improved in the booth, but there are still some things that bother both myself and the masses. Kornheiser doesn't seem to annoy everyone as much as in years past, and is starting to settle into his role, but some of his tangents and on-air "articles" remain over-the-top. The constant Brett Favre talk through the first five games or so was unnecessary, and it took a chastising from Tirico to finally make him stop.

Other than that, the only other thing the trio suffered from was a set of terrible games. But even with some stinkers, Monday Night Football was the most watched program on cable this past year. Via ESPN PR....

ESPN’s third season of Monday Night Football was the most-watched series on cable television in 2008, set an all-time cable viewership record for the third straight year and drew the year’s three biggest cable household audiences and 13 of the top 15. In three seasons on ESPN, Monday Night Football has registered seven of the top 10 all-time biggest household audiences in cable history, led by the Eagles-Cowboys telecast on September 15, which attracted cable’s largest household audience ever (an average of 12,953,000 million homes).

ESPN’s 17 Monday Night Football telecasts in 2008 averaged a 8.9 rating, representing an average of 8,679,000 households (11,962,000 viewers – P2+), increases of 3%, 5% and 7%, respectively, vs. 2007 (8.6; 8,277,000 and 11,230,000). MNF ended on a particularly strong note with last night’s Chicago Bears’ 20-17 overtime victory over the Green Bay Packers delivering a 9.8 rating, representing an average of 9,582,000 households (13,803,000 viewers – P2+). The game ranks as the third-largest household audience on cable this year.

The numbers don't lie, and for those of you expecting or wanting a change, aren't going to be getting it anytime soon. I know we poke fun at the trio each Monday night, but they're slowly getting better each season and each broadcast. If it ain't entirely broken, I'm sure ESPN feels no need to fix it. And they honestly shouldn't mess with what's working (for the most part) at this point.

That's not to say that there weren't some funny moments and quotes throughout the year, so what I've done is come up with a top ten set of quotes, and a compilation video of clips I've saved throughout the year. We've got Tony apologizing for a comment on Hispanic Heritage Day, Emmitt being Emmitt (Plaxico Berries, Rites of Patches and more) and Kat Deluna butchering the National Anthem. So buckle up and enjoy your 2008 Monday Night Football Season in just eight short minutes!



10. "Hi Brett, Hi Diana."- Mike Tirico during the Week One Packers-Vikings matchup

9. "This is not a Buccaneer team that's built to come from behind." - Jaws
"But they have, on the road. 3 times." - Mike Tirico

8. "Does that mean that, Delhomme, he went to Jarrett?" - Tony Kornheiser

7. "Great play calling, I can't tell you anything else. Very hard."- Mike Ditka

6. "The good thing about being short is that everyone else is tall...."- Emmitt Smith

5. "They were dooing for Deuce McAllister."- Mike Tirico
"Dooing?"- Tony Kornheiser
"Deucing."- Mike Tirico

4. "We put the focus on Favre because people like me are in love with him."- Tony Kornheiser

3. "That's exactly the kind of pass Favre would have thrown. Does it remind you of him at all?"- Tony Kornheiser
"Yes, but you've got to let it go, Tony."- Ron Jaworski
"I'm going to put a Favre moratorium on the Second Half. You only get five mentions!"- Mike Tirico

2. "I took high school Spanish, either he said he's not going to be caught, or please pick up my dry cleaning tomorrow." - Tony Kornheiser
"I said something before which I shouldn't have said, I apologize for it. Not my first mistake, undoubtedly won't be my last, but a 100% apology."- Tony Kornheiser

1. "This kid has obviously not earned his rites of patches in the locker room."- Emmitt Smith
____________________

Thanks again to all of you who took the time to join in on the live-blogs each Monday Night, and sorry for bailing near the end of the season (there was good reason, but I don't want to bore you with the details).

Week Sixteen of the NFL season is here, and ESPN will be airing their final game of the year on Monday night when the Green Bay Packers traveling to Chicago to take on the Bears. Not only will there be a "For Love or the Game" with Greg Jennings, AND a look back on the Monday night season in photos, but we'll also be getting a "comic book style" intro from Samuel L. Jackson!

The 2008 season finale of ESPN’s Monday Night Football will include a matchup of longtime NFC North rivals when standout rookie running back Matt Forte and the Chicago Bears – still in the hunt for the division title – host Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers December 22 at 8:30 p.m. ET. It will be the first MNF game in the Windy City since 2003.

Samuel L. Jackson, star of the upcoming film The Spirit, will appear in a special stylized opening tease to kick off the season finale of Monday Night Countdown at 7 p.m. Still photographs of heroic Bears and Packers faces are given a comic book feel in their framing and color treatment as Jackson tells the story of heroes and villains, of good and evil, and a classic rivalry, capturing the longtime spirit of this NFC North matchup.

Well isn't that special? As if Jim Carey's cheesy movie wasn't enough. Although, I think "The Spirit" looks badass, and if they're going to use anyone for a spot before the show....Sam Jackson isn't exactly a bad choice.

(Via ESPN PR)

It's the perils of live TV that bring about clips like the one from Tuesday morning (and I would know being the only "live" guest on Blog Show). You all watched in horror as a seemingly lead-filled souvenir plastic cup was hurled towards ESPN's Steve Young, and the analyst is finally able to talk about the scary moment just three days later!

Here is Young on On KNBR-680 in San Francisco yesterday, talking with Ralph Barbieri....

"Yeah, it was a perfect shot. You know, you'd think that would happen in Philly or Cleveland, you don't expect that in Charlotte."- Steve Young
"Do the producers, the powers that be at ESPN, do they apparently want that raucous crowd right up close there?"- Ralph Barbieri
"Yeah, they do it for the shot. So they have fifteen people going crazy so it looks like...wow. There's a lot of excitement going on there."- Steve Young

Zing! Seriously though, Barbieri is right. When I'm trying to listen to new words that Emmitt is trying to use on-air, I don't want a bunch of random fans from New Orleans or Houston drowning him out.

Oh and Steve, good job in being a "good sport" and all, but I wouldn't go saying that you'd expect that in Philly. Pretty sure they're past the whole plastic cup throwing thing and onto heavier and sharper objects. Just sayin'.

Steve Young Interview (KNBR-680)
Your MNF Video Of The Night: Steve Young Battles Hecklers (Awful Announcing)

It's been awhile since we've had an ESPN "movie promotion" post, so this announcement comes with perfect timing. Jim Carey will appear on Monday Night Countdown with Chris Berman and the gang to promote his new movie "Yes Man".

Actor Jim Carrey, star of the upcoming Warner Brothers film The Yes Man, will appear on this week’s Monday Night Countdown in a pre-taped special segment. The piece will play off the theme of Carrey’s new film as he asks viewers a series of NFL-themed questions, answering an emphatic “YES” to all and getting increasingly excited as he progresses.

Well at least he's not a guest in the booth with that same cheesy angle, right? Hopefully the group won't overdo the whole segment, but with that collection of individuals, I don't see how that's possible.

(Via ESPN PR)

There's obviously no love lost between Terrell Owens and ESPN, which isn't a surprise that he had something to say about the duo Emmitt Smith and Keyshawn Johnson, but it is interesting that Tampa Bay wideout Antonio Bryant does. The two went on similar rants today, with the likes of Emmitt Smith, Keyshawn Johnson and Trent Dilfer being called out by the pair.

Keyshawn's was in more of a jovial manner than anything else as he poked fun at Emmitt and Keyshawn by saying they need their own show called, "Dumb and Dumber". However, Antonio Bryant really seemed to take offense to being referred to by both Smith and Dilfer as a player with, "off the field baggage." Here are the two quotes from the Dallas Morning News and St. Petersburg Times, respectively....

T.O. (Dallas Morning News): "Those two need their own show - Dumb and Dumber," said T.O., who was otherwise jolly while sporting a Cowboys-customized Santa cap and blinking red nose.

T.O. called Emmitt a hypocrite for publicly calling the Cowboys a bunch of individual, then leaving a message on Greg Ellis' cell phone to pass onto the team. (T.O. wouldn't say what the message was.) T.O. also pointed out that Emmitt doesn't even know the name of the rookie running back who starred against the Steelers, since No. 22 apparently referred to Tashard Choice as Rashard.

As for Keyshawn, T.O. pointed out for the 1,348th time that the Cowboys gave Keyshawn a pink slip so they could sign him.

"Obviously, this guy is still really jealous of me," T.O. said, "because I'm here and this guy is in the booth talking about me and the Cowboys."

Antonio Bryant (Tampa Tribune): "I'm still trying to figure out what all this baggage is I'm supposed to have,'' Bryant said. "I'm being serious. I'm a real person and that bull---- Emmitt said on the TV about 'get my life right,' Trent Dilfer mentioned something about getting my life right outside of football. Last time I checked, man, don't be a hypocrite, man. This is me. A lot of y'all can't really walk on the same side of the street I can walk on and still go put on a suit. I can put on a suit just like you and get on TV and talk just like you. But I can still go home and still be me. So remember that, before you disrespect me like that on TV. I never said nothing bad about anybody out here, man, but just don't disrespect me like that. That's real. I'm out here, I'm a hard worker. I've always been a hard worker. So don't take that away from me, man, and just let me play football. If you've got something to say to me, say it...that's to Emmitt and Trent Dilfer. I really man that. That bothers me, man.'

Well then. I know receivers are divas, and that Emmitt and Key aren't always the greatest analysts (I rather enjoy Dilfer), but what ever happened to having "thick skin"? This isn't the first time someone has mentioned that Bryant has/had off-the-field problem, so I'm thinking this has something to do with the ex-player side of things. Like they're breaking some sort of code. Bryant did say he spoke with Emmitt, but still seems upset after admitting that the ex-NFLer, "went back and starting talking about how I got in trouble because of my mouth."

T.O. takes aim at ESPN's ex-Cowboys (Dallas Morning News)
Bryant: ESPN's Smith, Dilfer 'disrespected me' (St. Petersburg Times)

The obvious NFC East connection between Michael Irvin and Plaxico is there, but other than that and the fact that they are/were great receivers, I just can't find any reason that Irvin and Burress should be in the same sentence. You can argue that Burress is approaching an Irvin-esqe level of trouble (with a previous domestic abuse charge, a handful of team suspensions and now this incident), but until he has a birthday party in a hotel with hookers and a plate full of cocaine, I think he's safe.

Which is why the following video exchange between Emmitt Smith, Stu Scott and Steve Young before the game surprised me. Emmitt claimed there was no comparison to his former teammate Irvin, and that Plaxico was a "Cancer" and should be "removed from the locker room". Oh wait sorry that was Plaxico "Berries"....

Emmitt did get in a great descriptive word, "divisive", but he couldn't get his last name right to save his life. Too funny. As far as Plax himself goes, the only reason the Giants should even remotely think about cutting Plaxico Burress is if they think their stable of young receivers is ready. Sure they would save a ton of money but saying Plaxico doesn't come prepared is just false. He rarely practices, but apparently he doesn't need to. In his three previous years with the G-Men he's averaged 1078 yards, 70 catches and a little under 10 TDs. Obviously his interaction with the team before games is less than is to be desired, but he's still only missed three games in his four years on the team, with two of them coming this year. I'm not saying the guy is a Saint, but with as many chances that Pacman has had.....I think the Giants' receiver has a few more left before he's shunned from the league or the team.

If you're a Giants fan and you think he needs to go, while I think you'd be in the minority, you'd have every right to feel that way. The Giants Organization can ultimately do whatever they want with him, and I think the fact that he's in a large market like New York doesn't help his cause, but hearing people like Emmitt and Young sticking up for Irvin in the same breath that they damn Burress....just doesn't sit right with me.

I'd also be interested what Irvin himself has to say about the troubled receiver. If anything is talked about on his radio show today, I'll let you know.
____________________________

(Stepping down from my soapbox) Now that's out of the way, let's get to the rest of your Monday Nighter in quotes. Many thanks to JFein who kept track of the quotes throughout the game (quietly starting a slow clap).

"What has happened to the Jacksonville?” - The Mike Tirico in the pregame the introductions on the Monday Night Countdown

“Sage Rosenfels is the kind of guy who’s gonna be a late bloomer.” - Steve Young on the 30-year old Quarterback

“I’d like to take Pittsburgh, but since they aren’t playing, I’ll take Houston.” - Mike Ditka

"The roof is open because of the storm.” - Mike Tirico

“Houston’s QBs have combined to throw 17 interceptions in just 11 games. GACK!” - Tony Kornheiser

“Let me just say that these uniforms make the Texans look like Ketchup bottles.” - Tony Kornheiser

“Del Rio’s got a hot leather jacket on.” - Tony Kornheiser

“18 interceptions in 12 games, on pace for 600.” - Tony Kornheiser
“Who does your math?” - Ron Jaworski

"I love it when receivers catch the balls with their hands." - Ron Jaworski

"Mine was longer." - Ron Jaworski

"He could have gone for 30 yards there." - Tony Kornheiser on Sage Rosenfels not keeping the ball and instead throwing into traffic
"Really Tony? 30???"- Ron Jaworski
"Okay, 15."- Tony Kornheiser

“[David Garrard] has better hands than Jerry Porter.” - Ron Jaworski after the QB caught one of his deflected passes

Mike Tirico: “That’s the tallest building in the world not in a downtown area.”
Tony Kornheiser: “I didn’t know they kept stats on that.”

"Did you just hear that? Jacques Reeves runner-up in the Big Ten 200 meters? How did he know that?” - Tony Kornheiser on Mike Tirico

"Remember when the astronauts were brought into the Astrodome for a great barbeque" - Tony Kornheiser making no sense

"Always a good clue when you see a quarterback's arm go forward and forward and the hand empty, it's an incomplete pass." - Mike Tirico

"Talk about hitting the pillow and not having any regrets." - Mike Tirico

"Slaton untouched by a human hand." - Mike Tirico

Update: Apparently the better part of those came from SS' Live-Blog last night. Great work all.

Jaguars/Texans Live Blog - 2nd Half (SS Reporters)

After the crew gave Warren Sapp a little bit of praise for his trip to the finals of DWTS, Sapp took the time to apologize for his comments directed at Keyshawn Johnson. The outspoken one, who railed on Keyshawn's new interior design show and the ESPN analyst's masculinity last week, decided to say a few words that were apparently inspired by a talk with his mom. Here's the video complete with a bonus Collinsworth-JB tiff story....

See how easy that was? Sure the comments came at the very end of the show, and after he had already piled on Donovan McNabb, but you have to start somewhere. I still think Warren is a good addition to the show, and as soon as he realizes that he doesn't have to say something outrageous each week, he'll become even better.

Oh and don't forget to vote for the big guy!

Sapp apologizes to Johnson, criticizes McNabb (NFL.com)

Who: Browns at Bills
Where: Ralph Wilson Stadium
Why: So Tony can further develop his man crush on Brady Quinn
Spreads: Bills -5.5, O/U 40
Announcers: Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Tony Kornheiser

Monday Night Countdown Segments:

“Unmasked:” Marshawn Lynch

When asked to describe his attitude going into his rookie season in 2007, Bills running back Marshawn Lynch exclaimed, “Beast Mode.” His teammates feel like the description fits Lynch’s running style and Lynch went so far as to have grills made for his teeth that say “BEAST MODE” in diamonds.

ESPN the Magazine's “For Love or The Game:” Kellen Winslow

Kellen Winslow will be the subject of Monday’s “For Love or The Game”. Winslow’s wife, Janelle, and his teammate Brodney Pool battle to see who really knows Winslow better.

EA Sports Virtual Playbook: Browns Quarterback Brady Quinn

Tom Jackson breaks down how Brady Quinn's short passing game could create problems for the Bills.

(FYI- ESPN is also airing a new "This is Sports Center" spot during the game's first commercial break. The ad will star Carolina Panther's Wide Receiver, Steve Smith.)

AA's Prediction:

I've been wrong about three weeks in a row now, so I'm going to go against my better judgment and pick the Browns. I think they looked pretty solid with Quinn last week, and the Bills offense seems to be regressing as the season goes on (much like the Redskins). I'll see you a little after 8pm for the fun!

Browns 24 - Bills 14

Update: Canceling the live-blog for tonight because something came up. Enjoy the game, and I'll see you first thing tomorrow morning.

I completely understand the role that Showtime has tried to place on Warren Sapp, or that he did so on his own, but this just takes it to a whole new different level. On Wednesday's Inside The NFL, Sapp was taking questions for a segment called "Ask Warren Anything". A question came in about whether Warren would be watching Keyshawn Johnson's new design show on A&E and this was the outspoken one's response. Via Adam Schefter's blog on NFL.com....

In a special segment on this week’s Inside The NFL, Warren Sapp answered viewer submitted questions during “Ask Warren Anything”.

Below are transcription highlights of the show.

(On rumor that Sapp is a diva on “Dancing With The Stars”)
SAPP: I’ll tell you what. I have to be honest about the diva thing. I am a little eccentric at times. I like cold water and in California they like it room temperature. And as a 300-pound man I needed a little cold water. So they gave me a big cooler and they put “Warren’s Water,” so I guess that’s where they get that from. If a big fella needing cold water is being a diva, then diva I am.

(On whether he would ever watch Keyshawn Johnson’s reality show about interior design)
SAPP: Me, watch Keyshawn on an interior decorating show? Keyshawn, I knew you were a bitch. And thanks for making it all clear.

I know what the term "bitch" is supposed to mean nowadays, and I know that we are overly sensitive as a society, but that's just flat out uncalled for. Even if you take away the sexist nature of the comment, there's no point for Keyshawn's name to be coming out of Sapp's mouth in this format. If he wants to go on some douchebag's talk radio show and spout off at the mouth....fine. But to do so on a once classy and well done show like Inside the NFL, and to not be reprimanded after multiple attacks like this, makes me think that Showtime just isn't taking their direction with the show seriously.

I really hope that Keyshawn doesn't take this bait, and sink to Warren's level, but nothing would surprise me these days. I'll try to have the video up later in the day for posterity when ITN re-airs today, but that's the last time I watch that garbage. There's just no need for more of this crap in an already crap-filled Sports World.

Warren answers anything (NFL: Adam Schefter)

There are some things you just can't make up. ESPN Analyst Keyshawn Johnson is getting his own reality show on A&E, and you'll never what it's going to be about. Go ahead....I'll let you take a few guesses. Football? Nope. How to get him the "damn" ball? Nah. Well does it have anything to do with Sports? Actually no. Make sure you're sitting down for this....

Interior Design.

Seriously. I'm not even remotely kidding. The show, called “Keyshawn Johnson: Tackling Design”, will premier in 2009 and will air as as a part of A&E's Saturday lineup, "The Big Fix". Here's your official press release....

"Sports fans are aware of Keyshawn's formidable skills on the field, but will be completely surprised by his talent as a designer. The fact that he is really trying to get his interior design business off the ground perfectly fits with our real life brand where we capture the real lives of extraordinary people," said Robert Sharenow, Senior Vice President, Nonfiction and Alternative Programming, A&E. "In the current real estate market, 'Sell This House' is even more pertinent than ever, because it demonstrates how to get the most out of your investment in your home."

Outspoken NFL veteran wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson may be known best for his play on the field, but now he's putting a completely different set of skills to the test in "Keyshawn Johnson: Tackling Design." Furniture, fabric and finishings used to be just a hobby, but with his football days behind him Johnson's wide-receiving now has more to do with fitting furniture through the front door of a house. Will clients take this former pro-athlete seriously as an interior designer? The ten episode half-hour series follows Johnson as he tries to make a name in the world of interior design. And given the pressures and personalities, Johnson's famous temper is sure to be put to the test.

I don't even have something clever or cute to say right now. I'm shocked....SHOCKED! I mean, I know he won a fashion award recently, but this is just out of nowhere. I think I need a nap because my mind is straight blown right about now.

A&E Greenlights New Original Series "Keyshawn Johnson: Tackling Design" (A&E)
Keyshawn Johnson To Win A Fashion Award, Seriously (Awful Announcing)

After all of their appearances on the network over the past few months, you just knew that ESPN was going to have the two candidates on right before the election. That last time will be on Monday Night Football and of course the game on election eve is in DC. Not only that, but you'll never guess who they've tabbed to interview them. That's right! Christopher J. Berman....

On the eve of the presidential election, ESPN’s Monday Night Football game November 3 will originate from the nation’s capital when the Pittsburgh Steelers meet the Washington Redskins. Before the polls open the next day, ESPN’s audience will hear from the candidates when Chris Berman interviews both major party presidential nominees, Republican Senator John McCain and Democratic Senator Barack Obama, during halftime of the MNF game.

The candidates will be on the campaign trail and have agreed to participate one-on-one, pending last-minute schedule changes, via satellite with Berman from the ESPN studios in Bristol, Conn. The conversations will be taped earlier in the day and will air at approximately 10:15 p.m. ET. The Steelers-Redskins game will kickoff at 8:30 p.m. on ESPN and ESPN HD with the Spanish-language telecast on ESPN Deportes.

I guess in the end these are the only interviews that actually make perfect sense for everyone involved. Especially when you consider the magnitude of the game itself. Not only is the Skins-Steelers game an important one for both teams, but it will also be important for the candidates. You see the last Redskins home game before the election is a predictor of which party will make it into office on Election Tuesday. When the Redskins win, the party who last won the popular vote wins the presidency, and when the Redskins lose, the other party gets the nod. In fact this theory has hold true a perfect 100% (17 of 17) since people first came across it.

That means if the Skins win, it's John McCain. And if the Steelers win, it's Obama. Choose who you root for wisely!

Man, it's been a good while since we've had a great Emmitt quote. Well I finally have one to add to his laundry list of crimes against the English language. Here is Smith trying to use the phrase "rite of passage" when describing Matt Cassel's leadership....

>

As soon as he tried to break out that Cassel is, "stuck between a rock and hard place," I knew that one was going downhill. Thanks for that Emmitt....it's great to have you back.

I don't know why, but Jay Cutler always looks like poker player, Phil Helmuth to me for some reason. Anyway, I'm honestly curious as to whether ESPN will spend more time talking about the Pats or the Cowboys tonight, but I think I already know the answer to that one. As far as the game itself, it's the Broncos and Pats tonight and the action gets underway in this space around 8ish or so. See you then.

"We've got a cast of thousands from Foxboro, who'll shake you all night long with the music of ACDC."- Chris Berman

"This kid, obviously, has not earned the rights of patches in the locker room."- Emmitt Smith

EMMITT'S BACK, BABY! I'll try to have that one up by halftime. Too funny. Mort finally addresses the Favre-Romo call situation, after an entire two days of nothing from the "Leader", and says Romo was the one who made the call.

7:50- Another funny Glazer-ESPN moment just went down. At the same time that Mortensen was on Monday Countdown reporting that Mike Nolan "might be fired tonight", Glazer reported that he HAS been let go. ESPN....you're now on the clock!

Annnnnnd.....time! 8:04pm. The Countdown crew seems heartbroken about this firing, especially Berman. Odd. Mike Singeltary is now your Coach of the 9ers.

Picks:

Berman- Patriots
Ditka- Broncos
Key- Patriots
Cris Carter- Patriots
TJ- Broncos
Stu- Patriots
Emmitt- Patriots
Steve Young- Broncos

It's amazing that Steve Young is the only one of them that's actually over .500....actually no...that's not surprising at all. I'm also surprised that ESPN didn't make a bigger deal about this being the 600th game in MNF history. Oh well....kickoff coming up shortly....

Wow. Tony actually makes a good point about the Pats' D playing ahead and knowing the other team had to pass every down. I'm amazed.

(Stu) Scott just said Cassel has backed up Palmer, Leinart, and Brady. Cassel is the only one with a job currently so that's enough of a reason that the Pats will win? Why does he get paid again? (Via Jonathan)

Not really sure, but if he's going to do well against a defense....it'll be the Broncos.

Oh and everyone get ready for Jaws to praise Jay Cutler for about three solid hours tonight. He could throw four picks to one TD and he'd still be slurping all over him.

"That's John Elway-like."- Jaws on Cutler

Oh god....here we go....

"Shanahan motors through quarterbacks like he's speed dating."- Tony Kornheiser
__________________________

8:40- This game hasn't even started yet, and I'm already bored with it. That's not a good sign. Broncos get the ball first...let's get this over with....

Andre Hall makes a few people miss and he'll get it out to about the 27. Cutler gets hit on first down and he's hurt already. Looks to have hit his hand on a helmet. Second down pitch goes for a few and that's it for Cutler....he's off to the sideline. Wait....no....he's back in and I think you can guarantee a run right here.....

Draw and somehow Pittman still gets a first down. The Pats D is just terrible. Pittman with another nice run and he takes it out to about midfield. Cutler incomplete on second down and he's flexing that hand after every throw.

Patrick Ramsey is still in the NFL???? Well, you learn something everyday... (Via JFein)

Worst. Backup QB. Ever. Third and four....first down to Eddie Royal. Pittman for four or so on first down, then another four on second, and it'll be third and short....Pittman for another first down. Too easy. Pittman again and he got dropped by Warren after 3 yards. He almost got knocked out on the play and he's going to stay down. Injury timeout. More ACDC....YES!!!!

2nd and 7 from the Pats' 34....Play action to Nate Jackson and that goes for a few. 3rd and 5....

Pitch to Hall....FUMBLE!!! Pats recover at their own 32.

"You gotta protect the ball." - Mike Tirico (Via SS)

Thanks Captain Obvious!

8:55- "The Patriots Defense causes a turnover as Andre Hall spits it out."- Mike Tirico

Eww....Sammy Morris reels of 8 and that's followed by a Morris run for ten and a first down at midfield. Annnnd Morris again for another five. These are some good defenses we have on the field tonight. 2nd and 5....play action, Cassel to Watson for a huge gain! Great block downfield there as well. Pats ball inside the redzone....

Morris can only get a couple on first and Cassel gets sacked on second....3rd and long....complete to Welker but he's well short of the marker. FG attempt....

Good. 3-0 Pats with just over 5 minutes left in the 1st quarter

I could improve Denver's D. (Via Mike Nolan)

Yes....yes you could.

"We're going to talk about Tom Brady, obviously, a lot" - Tony Kornheiser (Via Anon)

Greaaaaat.

The New England fans are competing the Cleveland fans for worst teeth. (Via bwalaska)

9:02- Denver's ball at their own 36. Pittman for a few and then Cutler hits Marshall for 11 and a first down at the 50. Pittman gets another first, followed by.......

ANOTHER FUMBLE! Huge scramble for the ball. Still bouncing.....STILL BOUNCING!....and the Pats pick it up in Broncos' territory again. A personal foul on Denver will send it all the way to the Broncos' 22.....Andre Hall with his second drop of the night.

1st down....Sammy Morris goes nowhere. 2nd down....Cassel to Watson is incomplete. 3rd and 10....

"You could toast marshmallows on his forehead right now. He's really steaming."- Tony Kornheiser

Incomplete. Champ Bailey bats it down and we'll got another FG attempt for the Pats....

Good....6-0 New England

"One of the great things of being on Monday Night Football, is that we all get to play doctor" - Tony Kornheiser (Via BW and JFein)

Ummm...sure?

9:13- Andre Hall is still doing an okay job at return kicks....Broncos ball at their 34. Cutler throws quick to Royal and that's a first....

"That's the first time the ball has been thrown his way."- Mike Tirico

Or second...who's counting though? Pittman goes for zippy, Cutler picks up six on a short run and it'll be 3rd and four....Cutler floats one and it falls incomplete. Broncos to punt. Faulk with the fair catch at his own 16.

Morris with a nice run out past the thirty and a first down....and that's the end of the first. 6-0 Patriots.

"He misses the tackle...other than that, it was good defense."- Jaws (Via bwalaska)

9:20- 1st and 10 for the Pats and Cassel hits Welker for eight. Morris then picks up another big gain of 20 and that'll be Pats ball at the Denver 41.

Webster on a blitz and Cassel is brought down for a sack. I'm honestly surprised that Tony isn't harping on Randy Moss not being involved yet. Morris with another nice run and it'll be 3rd and 5 now....Cassel sacked! And that'll be out of FG range. Pats to punt....fair catch by Royal at the 10.

Pittman for six and then Cutler hits Marshall with a corner route, but there's an Offensive P.I. on Brandon that will bring it back. Not much there either. Pittman for about two and that will make it 3rd and 10 for Denver....Cutler runs it, and he gets smacked short of the marker. Broncos to punt....Welker brings it back a few yards to the Pats' 44.

Looks like Nick Kazcur has got the entire O-line addicted to Oxycontin this season. (Via SS)

Too funny.

9:31- Cassel to Moss on a slant, and Tony goes into yet another comparison between this year and last. MORRIS WITH A MONSTER RUN of 32 yards and he takes it all the way to the Broncos' 14. Sammy Mo already has 100 yards in this one.

Morris for about three on first down is followed by a Cassel incompletion to Moss. 3rd and 8....Watson tries for the first....he looks to be short. Great effort there, but the mark will have it short. Pats are going for it either way. 4th and a yard....

Sammy Morris to the left....TD Pats! 13-0 NE with 7:30 to go in the half.

9:39- Kickoff downed by the Broncos, they'll start from the 20....

TD Pats. 13-0. Why does it seem like every football game I actually bother to sit down and watch turns into a rout? (Via NHZ)

I'm beginning to feel the same way myself. Especially on these Monday nighters.

Patriots play U2 in the background after the score. (Via bwalaska)

Lame. A false start on Marshall is followed by a five yarder from Pittman and then an incomplete pass. 3rd and 11....Cutler hits Royal with a 13-yarder and it looks like Woods is hurt for the Pats. Timeout.

"That creates the rotating of the spheroid."- Jaws on the index finger

A pass to Marshall and a run by Pittman that goes nowhere makes it 3rd and short....

CUTLER GOES DEEP! Picked off. Terrible pass and Merriweather grabbed it for the Pats. NE ball at their 15.

P-Ram is officially getting ready to come in the game as Sammy Morris goes nowhere on first down. Cassel is sacked on second down and neither team is looking that great at this point. 3rd and 17....Cassel throws it away....but a dumbass play by the Broncos gives the Pats a first down. Facemask on Winborn.

Morris for a couple is followed by a pass to former Tarheel Sam Aiken, but ANOTHER personal foul tacks on fifteen. Pats ball, first and ten, at the 49. Play action screen to Moss nets nine and Champ Bailey is officially out with a groin.....2-minute warning.

Can we just live blog a game from 1988 from ESPN Classic? (Via SS)

Sure...what's on at the moment?

9:54- Morris gets stopped on a third and short, but it looks like the Pats are going to go for it yet again....I'd personally punt because a turnover would let the Broncs right back in it.....

Nevermind....Sammy Morris all the way down to the 13-yard line on the exact same play as the 4th and goal. Cassel rolls.....

TD to Randy Moss! Every single throw to Moss is offensive pass interference, but it's never called. Dre Bly gets shoved down but the TD stands.....

20-0 Pats.

"It's gonna hurt him for Dancing With the Stars." - Tony K referring to Bailey's groin (Via SS)

That makes no sense whatsoever.

How about a live blog of WWE Raw on USA? I'm hanging on for college bowl season: stupid bowl names, band shots and Bonerama! (Via Mal)

I hear ya. Ramsey completes a pass and Harrison adds a roughing the passer penalty to give the Broncos the ball at midfield. Just dumb. P-Ram is almost picked, but it's dropped by Hobbs. Ramsey to Jackson and the Broncos call timeout with :25 left in the half and the ball on the NE 38.

Ramsey hit...fumbles....no picked by Guyton. NE ball at the 50 and they have some time left to do some damage....

....or not. Cassel sacked and that will be the half. I'll see you in a new thread if you want to watch the rest of this boring game with me.

20-0 Pats.

Who: Broncos at Patriots
Where: Gillette Stadium
Why: So Tony can think he's a genius for explain how losing Brady, REALLY hurt the Patriots.
Spreads: Patriots -3, O/U 48.5
Announcers: Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Tony Kornheiser

MNF Links:

Five Things To Watch Tonight (Boston Herald)
Cutler's mobility will give aging Patriots problems (ESPN)
Coaches Shanahan, Belichick set to match wits again (Rocky Mountain News)
Week 7 Preview: Broncos at Patriots (Pats Blog)
Injury Report (Bronco Talk)

Monday Night Countdown Segments:

Dallas Drama

Reporter Greg Garber looks at all the elements that make up the “soap opera” of the Cowboys season.

Titans Defensive Line Unity

The Tennessee D-line keeps a circular chain with each player’s number on it to signify strength in unity. Countdown’s Jackson travels to Nashville to find out what the chain means to the Titans’ “front four.”

Mayne Event: The Helmet Debate

Senators John McCain and Barack Obama held their third and final presidential campaign debate Wednesday night, making their stances known on the economy, health care and national security. In this week’s “Mayne Event,” Kenny Mayne wanted to find out where the two candidates are on the hot-button issue of 2008 – NFL helmet safety.

Countdown’s “Spin The Wheel”

In “Spin The Wheel,” Countdown analysts discuss and debate hot-button NFL topics and issues displayed on a wheel.

EA Sports Virtual Playbook: Dwight Freeney vs. Aaron Rodgers

In EA Sports Virtual Playbook, Tom Jackson breaks down Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney and the techniques he will use to get to Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

AA's Prediction:

Well I was obviously dead wrong last week, so let's see if I can get back on track. I think the Broncos will be just too fast on both sides of the ball tonight, and win a close one on a Prater FG.....

Broncos 24 - Patriots 21

Last night's game, as far as the booth went, really wasn't all that bad. Sure Tony had his moments, but I think the trio was just so shocked at the outcome that they didn't have time to say anything too annoying. Countdown however was pretty wild throughout, but they saved the best for the end. Here is Cris Carter doing his endzone celebration for you before the game started last night, and the rest of the quotes below that....

Your Monday Night In Quotes:

"Eli Manning he has a big brother you know, Archie. Peyton's injury?"- Chris Berman
"Cooper! You talking about Cooper?"- Chris Mortensen

"You were a hawk on that."- Jaws to Tirico
"He's being helped by that hunter's moon."- Tony Kornheiser

"A lot of the issues of the Dallas Cowboys yesterday having pressure on Tony Romo, came from the outside pressure."- Emmitt Smith

"We think Eli is taller and handsomer now that he's won the Super Bowl. Imagine what would've happened if [Jaws] won the Super Bowl." - Tony Kornheiser

"In 1492, Christopher Columbus....in the ultimate road game. Where was he going? I don't know, but winning in front of hostile crowd....not easy."- Chris Berman

"How did Eli get to be the first pick? If his name was Schwartz he would have went in the sixth round."- Tony Kornheiser

"Even if Cleveland sails the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria can the Browns win tonight."- Chris Berman

"Penalty on the Browns. That's a shock....they only have nine a game."- Mike Tirico

"Thanks for Coughlin and Crennel, or I would be the third oldest coach in the NFL."- Tony Kornheiser

"The dog pound got a bone they can chew on here tonight"- Mike Tirico

"Wasn't Jamal Lewis, Brandon Jacobs, before Brandon Jacobs was Brandon Jacobs?"- Tony Kornheiser

"We think Eli is taller and handsomer now that he's won the Super Bowl. Imagine what would've happened if [Jaws] won the Super Bowl." - Tony Kornheiser

Hey AA what is the o/u on Browns flag tonight (Via Johnny Yellow)

The official number is set at 14.

Yep, Eli is showing his true colors tonight with all the errors he's making, but boy was he lucky that the Browns are ridiculously undisciplined, or else that awful fumble would have counted. (Via Anon)

He seems to be settling down now, but we shall see. 2nd Half starting in a few and it will be Giants ball.

"No mistake by the lake."- Mike Tirico talking about the Browns play tonight

10:24- Downed in the endzone, Giants ball at their 20.

Eli Manning with play action and it's picked downfield!!! McDonald then runs it all the way back to Giants' territory. Manning and Burress were not on the same page there.

"Settling down" into 2005 Eli form. On cue - INT # 2. (Via Mal)

Yes....thanks very much for pointing that out Mal. Browns ball at the NY 36....Lewis nowhere on first down. Harrison on the reverse (which was called correctly for once) and he takes it all the way to the 13!!! Great play.

Lewis goes for two and follows that up with another two. 3rd and 5, and the Browns need a TD here. Anderson to Stallworth! Noooooo. Just off his fingertips. Dawson out for another FG.....

Good. 20-14 Browns.

You know your season is going well when your own player tackles you on an interception return and hurts himself doing it. (Via Dan)

Haha...this could become a "You might be a redneck" kind of thing.

So, where is all of Tony's talk about how Eli is better than Big Ben now? (Via HW)

Yeah he stopped all that chatter quickly.

I've mostly been watching the Giants game but everytime i turn to FOX Tim McCarver has just been plain awful. (Via Anon)

Me too. I heard both the bunt/passed ball comments when Victorino was up and that slider nonsense from earlier. I might have to switch over to the game for a bit.

10:35- Jacobs for four on first down, incomplete to Burress on second and they have to call a timeout as the Cleveland crowd gets loud.

"When I look at the Cleveland Browns helmets it looks like someone put the numbers on with magic markers."- Tony Kornheiser third quarter
"Did somebody write those numbers on the Browns helmets with a Sharpie?"- Mal at 9:02pm

Hmmmmm. Manning on a scramble and he gets the first. Jacobs to the left and he adds another first. He runs again but this time he's dropped behind the line. And again....nowhere. 3rd and long....

Browns blitz! Manning sacked.

"This isn't the Super Bowl."- Mike Tirico on Manning not being able to escape the Browns' grasp

10:45- Cribbs goes nowhere and it will be Browns ball at their own 10. The Browns and Giants trade penalties and then Lewis reels of about four. Lewis again and he gets a nice gainer of about 11 and a first.

Incomplete pass as Dinkins drops it on first and whoa....Harrison almost breaks one but is tackled by the shoelaces right before the marker. 3rd and 2....got it. Good run there and Tirico correctly credits the O-line on that one. When they're not false starting, they're not that bad.

Play action to Dinkins....incomplete. Annnnnnnd.....false start. Penalty number seven. 2nd and 15....Anderson to Heiden and that'll make it third and a "manageable", 3rd and 4....

Heiden again and another first down! Kellen Winslow who? All the way down to the Giants' 37....annnnd they immediately commit a hold. Good lord.

"We're betting the over on the Browns penalties tonight right?"- Tony Kornheiser

Edwards is wide open on 1st an 20 and he picks up a ton of those yards back. It'll be 2nd and 6....Anderson to Edwards.....dropped....again. 3rd and 6....screen to Wright and that's right at the marker....FIRST DOWN!

Browns penalty....drink. Anderson to Harrison down to the 11 for 18 yards and that's a huuuuuge play!

End of the third....20-14 Browns and they're looking to score again.

"The dog pound got a bone they can chew on here tonight"- Mike Tirico (Via Mal)

Anderson rolls out....HIT.....TOUCHDOWN BRAYLON EDWARDS! Way to hang in there. It wasn't pretty but it got there.

27-14 Browns and Ross is down for the Giants.

Coughlin is wondering how the Browns are beating his team. He looks confused. (Via BWAlaska)

11:06- Bradshaw muffs the kick and he can only bring it out to his 12 yard line. Jacobs for three on first down and a facemask on him on second down will make it 2nd and 16. Manning hits Smith over the middle for a nice gain though and that will make it 3rd and 4....

Manning to Smith again! First down. The other S. Smith is everywhere tonight. Eric Wright on the corner blitz and he brings down Jacobs. Wright is having a great game tonight. Jacobs gets a nice gainer on 2nd down and it'll be 3rd and short....

Manning to Burress and that was too easy. Braylon Edwards tries to strip him on the sidelines, but that doesn't work either. First down into Browns' territory. Ward up the middle and he's all the way to the 30! Another first.

And Ward again....almost the same exact play. First down at the Browns' 15. Jacobs for five......

Manning under pressure....PICKED! It's Wright and he only has Manning to beat.....GONE!!!!! Pick six for the Browns....amazing. That makes three for Eli....

35-14 Browns with 8 minutes left to go!

Baseball time! Top of the 8th Phillies have a man on first and Pat Burrell pops it up for out number one. Victorino up.....

GONE! TWO-RUN SHOT TO RIGHT!!! That's a nice F-you to the Dodgers.

Feliz flies out but Ruiz hits a single and the go ahead run is on. Stairs to the plate. Pitching change.

11:20- Back to Football and of course Eli is making the Eli Manning face. Nice return by Bradshaw out to the 40 and a draw to Ward nets 18. Eli avoids a sack and/or fumble...and hit Burress for another first down at the Browns' 30. Ward again and he's running all over the Browns! Ball all the way to 14 yard line in what seems like 14 seconds.

Manning to Smith, but that's only for a half a yard and they have to take a timeout on second down. Not what they wanted there.

STAIRS KILLS ONE!!!!!!!!!!!! Phillies 7-5 in the 8th. WOW! That's a dagger if I've ever seen one.

2nd and 9....Manning to Ward and he only gets a yard. 5 minutes to go. 3rd and 8....Draw to Jacobs and that's a sure sign they're going for it on 4th. 4th and 2....

INCOMPLETE! Browns ball with 3:58 to go.

In other news...Big Brown retired hurting Detroit Shock's chances at a repeat championship. (Via Mal)

"Just shocking."- Tim McCarver

Rollins with a stolen base and he's on second with two out and a 2-2 count to Werth. Utley on deck. And JW fouls it off...and again. Strike out....crazy inning and FOX cues the Rocky music.

Browns ball....3rd and 7.....LEWIS FOR 13 YARDS! That might just about do it. First and 10 Browns at their own 21 and the Giants are out of timeouts. Two minute warning.

That's it folks and the NFC East was officially dreadful this past weekend. I'm switching over to Baseball and will have videos if anything else crazy happens.

Final: Browns 35 - Giants 14