On Stevie Johnson, TD Celebrations And Being Clutch
by Brian Galliford on Nov 28, 2011 1:00 PM EST
in Buffalo Bills Opinion
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On November 21, 2010, Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stevie Johnson had the game of his life, catching eight passes for 137 yards and three touchdowns in a 49-31 Bills win over the Cincinnati Bengals. He also made himself a mini-celebrity for his "Why So Serious?" touchdown celebration in which he played the proverbial Joker to the Batman and Robin identities adopted by then-Bengals receivers Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco.
Does anybody remember that Johnson's famous celebration came with the Bills trailing 31-20 in that ball game? Does anyone remember that Johnson was fined $5,000 for the act - his second such fine in a two-month span at the time?
This is the nature of memorable touchdown celebrations in the NFL: they're glorified. Because the Bills beat the Bengals last year, Johnson's celebrity took a major upturn thanks to what was, in reality, the same type of ridiculous in-game scoring celebration that has Johnson in so much hot water with Bills observers today.
Most of you are aware by now that Johnson cost the Bills 15 yards in Sunday's loss to the New York Jets with an unsportsmanlike conduct flag following a post-touchdown celebration in which he mimicked shooting himself in the leg - a la Plaxico Burress - then went to the ground mimicking a crashed jet. It was the latter act that drew the flag.
Because the Bills elected to squib kick the ensuing kickoff - and because Dave Rayner botched it, because the Jets recovered at Buffalo's 36-yard line, and because Burress would later score to tie the game at 14 - Johnson is being vilified virtually everywhere today.
Paul Hamilton called Johnson a joke. James Walker called the celebration dumb. Jerry Sullivan says Johnson's antics are starting to wear thin. That's all to be expected, because again, it's the nature of touchdown celebrations: when the going is good, they're remembered fondly; when the going gets rough, they're a distraction.
Johnson's admittedly ill-advised celebration is doing just that: distracting fans from what they should really be discussing today. Johnson proved on Sunday why it's so difficult to decide whether or not he should be a part of the team's long-term plans. Is he the receiver that can beat up on the league's best, or is he the receiver that can't make plays in the clutch?
How distracting has the celebration been? Take it away, Mr. Hamilton:
It really doesn’t matter that for the most part Stevie Johnson had a good game against the Jets. It doesn’t matter that he’s a very nice kid who enjoys life. He challenged the league’s best corner in Darrelle Rivis several times on Sunday and won. He had eight catches for 75 yards and a touchdown...
Sorry, Mr. Hamilton, but it does matter that Johnson had a good game against the Jets, and particularly Revis. In two games this season, Johnson beat Revis for 11 receptions, 159 yards and a touchdown. Receivers just don't do that against Revis. To say that a 15-yard flag undoes what Johnson accomplished against the unquestioned best corner in the league - a true lock-down player - is absurd to the point of hilarity. A dumb flag doesn't turn Darrelle Revis into Chris Watson.
It matters quite a bit that Johnson has proven himself capable of playing with, and beating, the league's best players. It matters just as much, however, that Johnson left more plays on the field - and that's a far more interesting discussion to have today than re-hashing what he did after a second-quarter touchdown.
Johnson had two opportunities to provide the Bills with game-winning points on the team's final, desperation drive in the 28-24 loss to New York. On the second of those, Johnson got open in the end zone, but a scrambling Ryan Fitzpatrick threw a ball that tailed to Johnson's left and fell harmlessly incomplete. It was a missed opportunity, but blame can be spread on that particular play.
The first opportunity, however, was the real issue for Johnson. On a play that Fitzpatrick and Johnson admitted that they'd drawn up in the huddle - and which they'd never practiced before - Johnson ran free on a slant, splitting Revis and a safety, and Fitzpatrick hit him in stride. A caught pass would've yielded significant after-the-catch yardage and perhaps even points, but Johnson didn't get his head around quickly enough during the route, and the ball was dropped.
Johnson took to Twitter after the game to address fan sentiment that the drop was as devastating as his drop of a game-winning touchdown pass in the end zone in Week 12 against the Pittsburgh Steelers last season. The fact of the matter is that it wasn't nearly as galling a moment as last year's fiasco. It did, however, represent at least the second dropped pass that could've defined him as a clutch performer. Today, he's viewed as the exact opposite of clutch.
My opinion on this whole issue: touchdown celebrations are generally dumb, and Johnson's was dumber than most. It did not cost the team the game, even though he shouldered the blame. His inability to deliver in the clutch is infinitely more concerning, and his general lack of focus - whether he's concocting stupid celebrations or dropping passes - is the epitome of this Bills team right now. It's also far more defining of Johnson the player than anything else that happened on the field.
Johnson has proven over the course of the past (nearly) two seasons that he's a good player, that he works well in Chan Gailey's system, and that he belongs in this league. Bills fans shouldn't be hoping that he turns into Lee Evans and becomes boring after scoring (though that would be nice); they should be hoping that he becomes a more focused, professional player that can play the game with proper perspective. If he does that, he'll make the plays when the plays need to be made, and he'll be worth every penny that he and his agent are convinced he's worth.
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He had Revis' number all day.
It’s a shame that it is being over shadowed by two, albeit large, plays. Stevie is a great receiver, and is taking more than his fair of blame today. He is a large part of why the contest was so close yesterday.
Shun the non Billievers!
Not more than his fair share
I don’t think anyone would argue that he played very well against an outstanding DB in Revis. That being said, it has nothing to do with the criticism of him failing in the clutch. Fitz went to him because he was open and he trusted him to make a play. He failed. He deserved to catch heat for his failure.
Punt?! In our moment of triumph?! I think you overestimate their chances!!
Chan Gailey to Brian Moorman
by TexasBillsFanatic on Nov 28, 2011 1:18 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
He definitely deserves heat for the drop, but I think duff was talking more about the penalty, which didn’t have nearly as much of an impact on the game as some people are making it out.
by JustAskTheAxis on Nov 28, 2011 1:25 PM EST up reply actions
didn’t have nearly as much of an impact on the game as some people are making it out
Except it led to 7 points in a 4-point game.
by inthegaddadavida on Nov 28, 2011 1:27 PM EST up reply actions
A botched kick off
led to the field position that gave them 7 points…
Trample the weak, hurdle the dead!
What about our O-line killing drives with bone-headed, after the whistle penalties. They are equally to blame, if not more in this department.
Stevies drop hurt. But he was still a big factor in the game, over arguably the leagues best DB
Shun the non Billievers!
Nobody else on the team is trying to create a superstar, larger-than-life, me-first persona, and then not backing it up with his play. This is the most succinct reason for getting on Johnson’s case. You tolerate these sort of antics from superstars, not from wanna-bes.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:41 PM EST up reply actions
I have never seen a me-first persona from Stevie. He is way more selfless than you give him credit for. He is a team first guy, who wants to compete and love life.
Shun the non Billievers!
I have never seen a me-first persona from Stevie.
Every one of his TD celebrations is this way. When does he ever celebrate with his teammates?
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 3:08 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Because that's a penalty.
That is the most insane part of the celebration rule. Around the NFL you see players stand back from who scored the TD to avoid the penalty.
"I got no problem with 7-9 coming off of 4-12 as long as I don't buy a couch there, you got to keep moving" - Mike Schoop
The only thing about celebrating with your teammates that is a penalty is planned celebrations, ala the old Redskins’ “FunBunch.” It is not a penalty to receive congratulations from your teammates.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 3:46 PM EST up reply actions
Yes, and after he does his little bit he's celebrating with his teammates on the way to the sideline.
Let’s not exaggerate him “not celebrating with team mates”.
It’s his personality, he’s flamboyant and that’s not a crime. I see him celebrate with team mates and block down field every game. He made a bad decision by going to the ground, let’s not pretend he’s DeSean Jackson or Peyton Hillis who are out there whining about money and looking out for themselves.
"I got no problem with 7-9 coming off of 4-12 as long as I don't buy a couch there, you got to keep moving" - Mike Schoop
Also, the celebration rules are so loosely enforced it drives me nuts.
I wonder how Santonio Holmes doesn’t get a penalty every time he gets a first down. He stands there and poses with the ball (using it as a prop) then drops it on the ground 2 seconds later.
If Steve Smith gets a penalty for laying on the ball how does Santonio not get a penalty for using the ball too? As always, it’s discretionary
"I got no problem with 7-9 coming off of 4-12 as long as I don't buy a couch there, you got to keep moving" - Mike Schoop
I loved it mocking plexiglass and the flight boy stuff. Stevie needs to make that catch. Same ole bills. Bab luck too when we wanted Patrick Willis 49ers take him and we settle for poz same thing last year we needed miller and Denver takes him just bad luck
by beezwright on Nov 29, 2011 1:15 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
On the sidelines and in the locker room. Its well known that he is a vocal leader in the locker room.
Shun the non Billievers!
a vocal leader in the locker room
So he is Chris Kelsay?
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 3:47 PM EST up reply actions
now you're just not being fair
alsokelsay is an important member of this team
Superstars lead by their play as well as their voice (e.g. Ray Lewis – whether you like the guy or not, he is a football superstar). Like Fred Jackson. Johnson is not even in Jackson’s class.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 10:26 AM EST up reply actions
you're just being random now
who mentioned ray ray and fred? (I love ray lewis)
I don’t understand all these comparisons. He’s not Peyton Manning either. So…?
And what’s wrong with Chris Kelsay??
I am pointing out examples of real leaders. Johnson will never lead anyone just by his talk, because his play has yet to match it. That’s why I made the Kelsay comparison. It’s one thing to be a lockerroom presence. It’s another thing entirely to be a leader that inspires teammates by both talk and play.
Johnson wants to be seen as a superstar #1 WR. He is not.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:12 PM EST up reply actions
Good write up
The fact that he beat Revis all day is awesome news. He needs to be locked up and his maturity will grow. He is only 25, and he will learn from all this, and will learn when it matters…when we have more talent on this team in the upcoming years and the playoffs actually will be a possiblity. I was happy with the way the Bills played and fought.
by csc06258 on Nov 28, 2011 1:12 PM EST reply actions 2 recs
Agree - lock Stevie in
He’s a great kid and I am CONVINCED he will mature, whereas mercurial malcontents like DeSean Jackson will not. However, he absolutely has to make the easy catches as we all will forgive the really hard catches that aren’t made. That catch he made over Revis along the sideline that was out of bounds was absolutely sick. It would be interesting to know how many drops he has this year and how that stacks up to the rest of the league. Dropping the easy ones happens from time to time but usually it’s a lack of focus. To me, he just wanted to run before he caught it, but maybe as Brian said, he didn’t have his head turned around soon enough to look it in.
by AlwaysaBillinPhilly on Nov 28, 2011 1:22 PM EST up reply actions
I am CONVINCED he will mature
Based on what?
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 1:59 PM EST up reply actions
im convinced too, he comes across as a good guy that wants to help his team. He likes the city and is trying to put buffalo on the map. And if you like it or not, he has done that in a way based on his celebrations. As long as he beats revis all day I don’t care how much he celebrates, as long as he doesn’t catch game winning TD’s.
I hope you meant “drop” instead of “catch.” :)
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Nov 28, 2011 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
he’s trying to put big numbers on his new contract too.it’s deserved but he can choose another team with bigger numbers and then you won’t say the same
proud to be a die hard bills fan from france
Prediction for 2011; 9-7 and a wild card ticket
Draft 2012,1st OLB, 2nd ILB, 3rd CB,4th OL and WR
I’d be willing to let him get overpaid by another team if he can’t grow up.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:37 PM EST up reply actions
i wouldnt cuz that leaves us with one slot receiver and no other talent. Think about it, we would have to hope a draft pick works out, which hasn’t faired well in the last 10 years.
You’re right that the draft picks haven’t necessarily worked out, but neither has overpaying for marginal talent.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:44 PM EST up reply actions
That’s also why we are constantly stuck in rebuilding mode. Not being able to keep key players and busting on draft picks has been killing us.
I don’t think he is a top 10 reciever, but we really need him on this team. I’d rather see him get overpaid here, than walk. (That is of course if he is set on making top nfl reciever pay)
Is this your homework, Larry?
by Schooled You on Nov 28, 2011 3:01 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
a top 10 receiver !!!!
stevie is not a top 10 ok but 1) how many top 10 have we ? 2)stevie is at least a top 20 and last year he was not a WR1 in one of the weakest teams in the nfl 3)he won’t mature,he will still drop passes but he will catch a lot.if we can we must keep him
proud to be a die hard bills fan from france
Prediction for 2011; 9-7 and a wild card ticket
Draft 2012,1st OLB, 2nd ILB, 3rd CB,4th OL and WR
I would agree to a top 20 reciever, and that we must keep him here.
Is this your homework, Larry?
by Schooled You on Nov 28, 2011 7:34 PM EST up reply actions
Exactly.
Good job cutting through the hyperbole and getting straight to the point, Brian. Nice to read something on this topic that’s not only sane but relevant.
by dinendal7 on Nov 28, 2011 1:17 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Agreed -- a very good piece, but drop and penalty may be connected
Everything that Brian says is spot-on but I would take his thinking one step further. I wonder if that penalty and the obvious controversy it provoked stayed with him the rest of the game and caused him to lose his focus on that crucial drop at the end. It’s true he did have a number of catches before then that required good concentration, but the Big Drop was a potential game winner, and it was obviously very much on his mind that he might cause the team to lose the game through his earlier antics., so that issue might have surfaced at that moment and helped lead to his failure to make the catch. The human mind can work that way.
That makes you redundant…… And me too, probably.
by MattRichWarren on Nov 28, 2011 1:43 PM EST up reply actions
It really doesn’t matter that for the most part Stevie Johnson … the league’s best corner in Darrelle Rivis several times on Sunday and won.
give me a break. classic WGR.
brian this article is spot on. merril hodge said on ESPN today that stevie should be cut immediately, an analysis as dumb and overreactive as what mr hamilton wrote up there. stevie is a hell of a good football player, but he obviously has some growing up to do still. what the bills should be worrying about isnt whether johnson can buckle down and get more mature, they should be worrying about whether or not johnson can buckle down and get more mature after a big pay day.
I think Hoge’s comments were way dumber.
by MattRichWarren on Nov 28, 2011 1:43 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I saw Hodge too
and immediatley thought that he’s an idiot. If he really thinks that, I believe he has lost touch with what the players in this game have evolved into from the time that he played. MOST players are self-absorbed, highlight reel craving, pay me the big bucks buffoons!
Here's hoping!
what the bills should be worrying about isnt whether johnson can buckle down and get more mature, they should be worrying about whether or not johnson can buckle down and get more mature after a big pay day.
Huh? If he refuses to buckle down and get mature now, when he’s playing for a big contract, why would anyone ever think he’s going to do that AFTER he gets a big contract?
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
thats pretty much the point im trying to make. how do they figure out just how much terrell owens stevie has in him vs. how much of this is him still being a young man and relatively inexperienced player?
thats a tough question to answer but they have to decide quickly because it should make a huge difference in the kind of money they offer him
and, like in the main post: im more concerned with the drop than the celebration. im plenty OK with him being a colorful guy and having his fun after touchdowns. but if the whole song and dance is detracting from his focus (even indirectly), and leading to a drop such as the one we saw, than thats really the issue that needs to be sorted out
I am not even worried about the drop....
TO dropped plenty of balls….every WR has dropped passes in clutch moments….Andre Reed anyone???? But they also make clutch catches too. And, don’t forget that Stevie has made a few clutch catches. I am not a fan of TD celebrations in general, but the only issue I have is that Stevie took this celebration to far. By that I mean he went to the ground knowing it would draw the penalty and that the game was on the line. Stevie put himself and his own self promotion before the team. And to be clear, I don’t blame Stevie for the TD the Jets scored after. That was a “team effort”.
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
Stevie is not yet close to the league of T.O. or Andre Reed so don’t even begin to let him off the hook because of them! Stevie finally got his shot last year, made some great plays and decided to be colorful about it…it was fun to see I’ll admit, but then he ate humble pie! That’s where you say, maturity should happen because he isn’t a superstar yet. He had 1…count it…1 great year and everyone said he’s ready to be our number 1! As number 1 he’s been streaky and he still makes key drops, not exactly the resume of a ‘great’ receiver who should be paid like such!
He is not close yet because his career isn't done
and maybe he never will, but that isn’t the point. The point is that even great players drop passes. If you don’t think Stevie is a great player…or has the potential to be a great player, then shouldn’t you expect him to drop more of those passes?
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
by Joe P. on Nov 28, 2011 4:17 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Just because I think he has the potential to be a great player, doesn’t mean the Bills should extend him with a top player contract. Call me jaded, but I have seen too many “great potential” players get huge contracts just to never live up to the hype. Some suggest roll the dice on a big contract extension for Stevie based on his potential. I’m not sold, and suggest a modest short-term contract before putting all the eggs in one basket with a huge payday for Stevie. Maybe it ends up costing the Bills more money in a year or two IF he matures and steps up his game. However, it could also save the Bills money if great potential and average #1 WR production is all we see from Stevie.
and what if we let him go and then he goes on to be elite with another team.....probably the Jets or Pats?
I would argue that Stevie is less of a gamble than the majority of WRs the Bills might draft in the 1st or 2nd round.
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
i would say that is absolutely accurate. but hes also gonna cost a whole hell of a lot more money than a rookie.
if you want big time franchise receiver type money, then the team better be able to count on you to make plays at big moments. stevie has now dropped passes which would have been the bills biggest win of both 2010 and 2011. both plays he was wide open. both plays were perfect throws. both times it slipped right thru his hands. id have a hard time overlooking that if i were buddy nix and ralph wilson.
to be honest i have no idea how i want them to handle it, because i like stevie so much, but drops happening in moments like that is a huge problem to me
Agreed....it does need to be taken into consideration.....Stevie isn't Megatron
and shouldn’t be paid like he is. If that is what he wants, then franchise him and dangle him as trade bait.
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
unfortunately fellas
the way the NFL works is that any great player who is up for a new contract is going to get one of the biggest of all time at his position, regardless if he is elite or not. Winning teams buck up and just keep guys who can help them win with the team.
Stevie Johnson is young, hes proven he can be a main cog in a passing attack, he runs precise routes, and most importantly of all – hes the favorite target and best pal of the QB you just gave a large deal to. Hes got to stick around and Im ok if its for a lot of money. Keep Stevie and draft one of those talented receivers in round 1 or 2 of the draft. Simple fact is, this is two years in a row where the receiver opposite Stevie hasnt produced and he keeps on doing his thing.
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
SJ
Has given FO ammo to not give SJ big boy pay, he’s not proven anything but he’s like Doctor Jekly Mr Hyde. Sorry for spelling. We can sign him for reasonable contract because he does stupid stuff at worst time. Not a good trait in NFL. Kids got skills but judgement and hands are questionable. Please don’t sign another streaky player to big contract! ala Fitz.
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 7:23 PM EST up reply actions
how is Stevie streaky?
we are going to call him streaky because the last three games he played while on the injury report for illness as well as physical limitations? Take out those two most recent starts and look at Stevies other 22. In 15 of them he went over 50 yards, in 15 of them he had 5 or more catches. He has literally been starting for a season and a half and already has notched over 1800 yards and 17 touchdowns for the Buffalo Bills while averaging over 12 yards a catch.
Stevie Johnson has been far more consistent than you are giving him credit for.
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
forgot to add hes 2 catches away from 150 receptions already.
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
Streaky
Quess wrong word, how about solid? Another words doesn’t make “no brainer” mistakes that are costly. Stop the dumb stuff and be a pro bowl reciever, not a WTH player. Consistent. Not quirky. Its all I got. :)
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 7:43 PM EST up reply actions
hahaha fair enough
I agree he needs to stop the dumb stuff :)
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
All Good
Truly didn’t realize how well he’s done yr to date for team. Always good to get your perspective Poz.
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 7:48 PM EST up reply actions
Hands Questionable?
did u see his disgusting catch that fitz through out of bounds, had he thrown just a slightly better pass it would have been on sportscenter.
by SPCtacular1 on Nov 28, 2011 11:42 PM EST up reply actions
Yep
Out of bounds catch Spectacular!
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 11:53 PM EST up reply actions
You do understand that he still needs to have good hands to make the catch, regardless of where it is on (or off) the field, right?
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Yes
And you think I was being sarcastic?
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 29, 2011 7:52 PM EST up reply actions
Yes, which is what I was commenting on. Just because the catch was made out of bounds doesn’t mean that it didn’t indicate that he had good hands on the play.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Good
So you did understand and still saw fit to question me. And my point is/was catching the ball out of bounds no matter how spectacular means absolutely nothing towards winning the game. Ever heard of a all pro out of bounds wr? Nice hands though!
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 30, 2011 1:35 AM EST up reply actions
i think you missed his point bb..
You were questioning SJ’s hands and stetz was pointing out a play where he caught a one handed pinning ball to helmet catch, albeit a toe out of bounds, that woulda been a 40 yarder. I think he was highlighting a situation where SJ made a difficult catch to show he has the hands to make all of the catches. I believe his main problem is a lack of focus. Had he spun his head around as soon as he made the cut, then he would have had time to prepare for that potentially gw td catch, but instead it went right through his hands as he didn’t have time to gauge how fast the ball was coming in…
by Bestbillieve86 on Dec 1, 2011 3:16 AM EST up reply actions
you are probably right...if the Bills want to keep Stevie
they are going to have to overpay. This assumes of course that Stevie wants to remain a Bill……and don’t tell me that he has already said he wants to remain a Bill…..Poz gave us the same cock and bull before he left.
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
Hey
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 7:24 PM EST up reply actions
Heck
If he wants to use us as a bargaining chip I say later!
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 7:25 PM EST up reply actions
It would be unfortunate, but if he leaves CHIX better figure out a way to
get some value and not just give him away like so many other players.
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
SJ
Add to add to this does SJ seem like he has the “it” factor or the ?? factor? He’s kinda a enigma to me.
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 7:29 PM EST up reply actions
I don't think we have the answer to that yet...
He acts like he has the “it” factor……but we are still waiting to see if he can put up “it” factor production. Right now, I would say he has a “t” and is asking if the Bills if they want to buy a vowel :-)
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
Asking Bill's
Good luck SJ Bill’s don’t pay for anything, let alone a vowel!
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 7:38 PM EST up reply actions
yea Posluszny was a phony
for all his antics though Stevie Johnson has brought far more positive attention to the Bills than he ever has negative. Look, the media was waiting for moment when they could flame us for our epic collapse. Stevie gave to them. Its sad that our media in this country operates like that but its the way it is.
Doesnt change the fact that Stevie has made Buffalo a media darling for most of his time here and thats a good thing for the teams bottom line and ability to attract talent. I think that stems from a genuine feeling of ownership guys like him have with this team and fanbase. They were low draft picks and they feel invested in what theyve been able to do here with frankly, a fanbase that has felt like a low round draft pick for the last decade. I think he wants to stay and as a diehard fan, I want him here
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
Cool
As soon as SJ stops acting like a “kid” and gets serious, than give him serious money till than he’s a question mark.
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 7:31 PM EST up reply actions
Hodge
Doesn’t know what he’s talking about..LOL cut??? So over the top knee jerk reaction analysis. Why doesn’t ESPN cut Hodge for poor analysis?
Yup
All I know is he cost himself a lot on the negotiating table yesterday.
Sure he had 8 for 75 and a score…
But he could have had 9 for 110 and 2 scores including the game winner.
He said that he wants to get to the Andre Johnson, Calvin Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald level and that he has to earn it… well they make that play, especially wide open.
As for the TD celebration, it is what it is: Funny but stupid. The “Plax” wasnt even what got the flag, the “Santonio” was… and he knows you cant go to the ground in celebration… but if Rayner didnt screw up that kick or if we recovered that kick we wouldnt even be having this conversation.
Fitz = M(C)²
"Lets Go Buff! a! lo!"
I got a TROPPer in the car, uhh!!
but if Rayner didnt screw up that kick or if we recovered that kick we wouldnt even be having this conversation.
Rayner made the squib kick because Gailey and DeHaven called the squib because of Johnson’s stupid penalty. You can away some blame from Johnson, but not all of it.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:02 PM EST up reply actions
Do we even know
It was a squib? It sure looked like on the replay that he mis-hit it trying to get extra distance on it because of the penalty
Trample the weak, hurdle the dead!
Gailey confirmed it.
Coach Chan Gailey confirmed that the short kick that the Jets recovered was intended to be a squib kick. “[The Jets] are the number one kickoff returners in the league,” he said. “They had 15 more yards to set up a return. We were going to try and squib it down there and not let them set up a good return.”
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/rapid-reports/post/16262131
Limited time only! Spend $50 & get free S/H w/ code "SHIPFREEUS"
by twoeightnine on Nov 28, 2011 2:13 PM EST up reply actions
they should have never made that call
regardless of the penalty. There was 2 min left and the Jets O was not moving the ball well in the air.
"The Buffalo Bills have just exploded all over the Cincinnati Bangles"
-Steve Tasker-
Im with u, the bad kickoff is 100% johnsons fault!
He said he learned from it…..here’s my take. LEARN THE NFL CELEBRATION RULES BEFORE YOU COST YOUR TEAM WITH YOUR STUPID CELEBRATIONS!
What a subject though! Beating Revis all day, stupid penalties, dropped potential winning pass.
by PayUrBills on Nov 28, 2011 3:48 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I'm also not sure how much of a celebration it is.
I just won the lottery! I’m not going to jump for joy or do a dance, I’m going to pantomime taking a bowling ball to the nuts.
Limited time only! Spend $50 & get free S/H w/ code "SHIPFREEUS"
by twoeightnine on Nov 28, 2011 2:05 PM EST up reply actions
The drop was heartbreaking
but the TD celebration was dumb. I think it’s far more damning that he drew a 15-yarder on a premeditated celebration that he KNEW was illegal than to drop a pass, as everybody does that from time to time.
In any case, he has proven that he is a supremely talented WR and we would be wise to lock him up now.
by inthegaddadavida on Nov 28, 2011 1:25 PM EST reply actions
rec'd
couldn’t agree more with the sentiment Brian.
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
yep
"Alright Men, lets go out there, bust um in the chops & get somebody bloody. Keep working hard till you get it right. Take the W in battle & make the Bills Nation Proud." coach Karma420
by Blood, sweat & Win on Nov 28, 2011 1:42 PM EST up reply actions
me too..rec'd
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
Celebrations..
I’m not a huge fan of these ‘personal attack’ type celebrations. In the end zone, Nelson came up to Stevie to celebrate and was ignored in favor of this premeditated, penalty-inducing BS. Celebrate your good play with the team, not by providing fuel for the opposition (Plaxico caught the TD on the ensuing drive and might have had the play of the game with his 3rd and 11 catch on that last drive).
Stevie needs to get his head completely game – the drop on the slant is inexcusable because it was a mental lapse. With this said, I love Stevie’s game and the fact that he was anything but stranded on Revis island shows what a good and crafty receiver he has become. I want him ti be a Bill going forward, but a more mature Bill!
I’m not a huge fan of these ‘personal attack’ type celebrations. In the end zone, Nelson came up to Stevie to celebrate and was ignored in favor of this premeditated, penalty-inducing BS. Celebrate your good play with the team, not by providing fuel for the opposition (Plaxico caught the TD on the ensuing drive and might have had the play of the game with his 3rd and 11 catch on that last drive).
Stevie needs to get his head completely game – the drop on the slant is inexcusable because it was a mental lapse.
Couldn’t agree more. Stevie displays his true colors. He is self-absorbed. This is not the first time he has displayed this. It’s exactly the same thing as when he actually disrupted his own teammate’s TD celebration (Scott Chandler in the KC game). How does anyone think Johnson is ever going to get his head in the game and become a team-first player when he consistently shows he is all about himself?
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
Winds is right again
Remember Stevie mocking the Minutemen when the Patriots were kickin their butts! No conscience of reality. I bet thats why he cant make the big catch, he’s dreaming of his stupid celebration he reheased all week.
by PayUrBills on Nov 28, 2011 3:53 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
No problem with TD celebrations.
But they don’t have to be over the top. Stevie could have stuck with just the plane, or just shooting himself in the leg, or done one on one td and the other on a second td. Just needs to learn control.
After all, no one complains about Clay Matthews over televised Hulk sack dance, or Jared Allen’s hogtie after every sack, or Shawne Merrimans sack spasms.
by NordicBillsfan on Nov 28, 2011 1:27 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Celebration fine. Dont get a penalty.
Maybe no single act costs the game, but we can say that about anything, including a dropped TD grab. We can always argue that we can make it up elsewhere. But these penalties are almost premeditated. It just seems entirely inexcusable.
I have low expectations. But high hopes.
by greysquirrel on Nov 28, 2011 1:32 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
But these penalties are almost premeditated. It just seems entirely inexcusable.
Rec’d. Exactly. His own team ought to fine him.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
Stevie will mature
It amazes me that these guys don’t realize going to the ground is a penalty, hello?!? However, I think it’s all starting to sink in for him that he can still have fun while being a lil’ more responsible/focused. He needs to be locked up long term, so he can continue to make Revis his *!^$# for many years to come!
lesson learned
i’d be very shocked if Stevie ever gets another excessive celebration penalty. hopefully he keeps himself in check in the future and lets his play speak for itself.
by Ethan Abeles on Nov 28, 2011 1:42 PM EST up reply actions
i’d be very shocked if Stevie ever gets another excessive celebration penalty.
WHY??? He has refused to change so far.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:07 PM EST up reply actions
Stevie will mature
This is based on what? That he needs to?
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:07 PM EST up reply actions
all this attention
Stevie is a bit immature and impetuous, but at heart, i think he’s a good guy and wants to win. With all the attention being drawn to this incident and the effect (how much is debateable) it had on the outcome of the game, I just don’t think he will make the mistake of going too far with a celebration. I’m not saying he’s going to become a stoic non-celebrator though.
"There were a lot of guys that were disappointed, frustrated and down, me included."
- Ryan Fitzpatrick
by Ethan Abeles on Nov 28, 2011 2:23 PM EST up reply actions
Like I said yesterday a franchise receiver catches that ball and the celebration means nothing more than comedic relief. As of now he is not a franchise WR, he may turn into one but he is not as of now. That drop combined with the one last year is proof of that, The Bills need to decide if he is going to be the man or the man next to the man and pay accordingly.
by IiiIIIiiIiI on Nov 28, 2011 1:42 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Give me a break
Do fans not pay hundreds of dollars to be ENTERTAINED? What Stevie Johnson did was dumb only because it drew a penalty. I personally think that stuff like that is awesome. I understand there is a line (props, throat slashing) but I cannot see why it is such a big deal that a guy fell on the ground while celebrating so as to deserve a penalty on par (15 yrd personal foul) as something malicious like Suh stomping out an OLineman. I’m sorry, but these guys get paid hundreds of thousands, to millions of dollars. If someone cant handle a TD celebration mocking their team, they dont deserve to be in the league. Keep it in perspective NFL, something like that does not deserve a penalty in my opinion.
"That's why you keep playing, gentlemen"
-Chan Gailey-
by Eric Murawski on Nov 28, 2011 1:43 PM EST reply actions 9 recs
This is an entirely different issue, though. You are saying the rule is dumb. I don’t know if anyone on this entire site would disagree with you. I agree that the rule is stupid.
But that is moot. The rule is the rule, and it is ALWAYS enforced. Johnson continues to draw premeditated penalties because he continues to flaunt the rule. He hurts no one but his own team.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:09 PM EST up reply actions
I said as much. It was dumb of him only because it was a penalty. I cant disagree with you on that one.
"That's why you keep playing, gentlemen"
-Chan Gailey-
by Eric Murawski on Nov 28, 2011 2:17 PM EST up reply actions
Rec
Why So Serious? Its crazy that the NFL treats a small celebration the same as someone deliberatly trying to hurt someone.
Shun the non Billievers!
They actually don’t treat it the same way. Word on the street (ESPN) is reporting Suh will be suspended at least 2 games. Johnson won’t be suspended for what he did.
Thank you thank you thank you thank you sireric for bringing the furious punching cat back into my life. - poz
by bluecollarbuffalo on Nov 28, 2011 10:53 PM EST up reply actions
I rec’d because I love the celebrations but Stevie should have known he would be penalized for falling to the ground.
After reading the rules, he could have been penalized and ejected for the gun play/taunting too. Lucky the refs didn’t realize what was happening or didn’t care.
"We have an elite pass rushing LB who likes to conserve electricity." -- Munchausen
Jerry Sullivan says Johnson’s antics are starting to wear thin.
LOL. Sullivan’s articles wore thin about ten years ago. It is so easy to predict what his columns will be about.
1. He is going to attack someone
2. He always goes for low-hanging fruit.
3. Loves to kick dogs when they are down.
I’d like to think Buffalo sports fans deserve better.
by PineWoodsBillsFan on Nov 28, 2011 1:48 PM EST reply actions 5 recs
With you brother. He does get old sometimes.
But sometimes he is also spot on.
He needs to just change it up a little bit.
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Nov 28, 2011 6:07 PM EST up reply actions
And make our offense more anemic than it has been recently? Sounds like an awful idea.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
by stetzwebs on Nov 28, 2011 3:23 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Another interesting take
I don’t usually take much stock in what Yahoo sportswriters say, but there is a line in here that echoed my feelings:
“I know of exactly zero football fans who haven’t made or chuckled at a Plaxico Burress joke. I’m not defending or condemning Johnson’s leg-shooting routine, but if Stevie Johnson’s going to get raked over the coals for it, there’s a lot of hypocrisy going on.”
Here's hoping!
The simple fact of the matter, as Burress himself pointed out, is that Johnson has not backed up his antics with consistent excellent play.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:26 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Going off this, I find hypocrisy in that everyone on ESPN was laughing about the Lions Tebowing when the Lions were blowing out the Broncos a few weeks ago, but when someone mocks something that deservers disdain and was a public danger, suddenly it’s classless. Yes, mocking someone for shooting themselves after actually doing something importanant (like scoring a TD) is way, way worse than mocking someone for praying after a minor non-scoring play…
"We have an elite pass rushing LB who likes to conserve electricity." -- Munchausen
I know I’ve brought this up in other articles/threads, but it still needs to be said.
"We have an elite pass rushing LB who likes to conserve electricity." -- Munchausen
Agree with you, crooked5. The Tebow mocking was utterly classless, but mocking Christianity is considered enlightened behavior in the U.S.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 10:31 AM EST up reply actions
By whom? 2/3 of the country is Christian.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Well, clearly by NFL.com, with all the positive coverage that incident got. ESPN as well, for that Tebow incident. By Don Banks, too, as he decided to swipe at Johnson on Sunday by saying, “I wonder if he will blame God again.”
By the MSM, by every sitcom out there, by every gutless overly vocal tiny minority that has so much influence in today’s culture. You don’t notice them taking such swipes at Muslims, do you? Why not? Because their actual lives would be in danger then. But a real Christian is not going to hunt someone down and injure or kill them for such mocking. Tim Tebow, being a class act, is not going to retaliate, he’s just going to keep plugging away.
Look at where it’s taking him. He is just a winner, and I’m not saying, “Tim Tebow is winning because God is on his side.” I’m saying he is a winner, despite his faults, he’s a class act, unlike most of the players in the NFL.
If you don’t see the mocking of Christianity that goes on continually in this culture, you’re not looking very hard. And if you don’t see how this culture is being pulled and dragged in the direction of the loudest, tiniest vocal minorities, I question whether you’re observing very carefully what’s going on in our culture.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:19 PM EST up reply actions
Well, this isn’t the place for this debate, but I take STRONG objection to the stance that Christianity is mocked in this culture more than other religions. And yes, I am a Christian.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Yeah
Who’s mocking christianity in the US? That truly is news to me and I believe I’m keeping pace with current events. Thats kinda weird. Hope thats not true.
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 29, 2011 7:56 PM EST up reply actions
Johnson still the man
He lit up Revis, probably the best CB in the league. I thought the TD celebration was hilarious. I want a guy with attitude not afraid to go make the big play. The drop hurt no doubt, but there there is plenty of blame to go around on the entire team as far as why we lost the game. Stevie Johnson is the man, a proven talent, and now a clear #1 WR tearing the best CB in the league up and people have problems with him?? C’mon men!! I’m with you Stevie keep doing your thing (including reading BR)!!
Yup
by Bills4ever on Nov 28, 2011 1:57 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
Yep - he is....
I did a quick search on dropped passes and Stevie is not even on the list. which means he has fewer than 4 this year. Now Roddy White? That dude has some dropsy issues. In fact the Bills are 27th in the league in drops as a team with only 12 on the year. Stevie will get it together on what is a kosher TD celebration and I still don’t think he’s anywhere near 100% physically right now either, which says a lot for his performance against Revis yesterday.
by AlwaysaBillinPhilly on Nov 28, 2011 2:05 PM EST up reply actions
The problem is not the number of dropped passes, it’s the time in which they occur.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
there is a reason the ball is being thrown to Stevie at those times
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
I agree completely. I think people are forgetting all the good catches he’s made with the game on the line, or to give the offense a jump start. I was just saying that the argument isn’t the number of times he drops, but the times he drops it in the clutch.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
which is an interesting point....what is that ratio of clutch drops to catches?
People remember the bad and forget the good. Is that happening here? How many clutch catches has Stevie made?
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
I cannot remember many this season. In those comeback games (vs. Oakland & NE), the clutch plays on offense were made by FredEx, Nelson, Jones, and one by Chandler that I can remember.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 3:49 PM EST up reply actions
Well, I would argue that Stevie had some pretty clutch catches for the Bills
I guess it depends on what you consider clutch. Do they have to be for game winning TDs? What about TDs in general? Do 3 down conversions count? Funny part is that it really doesn’t matter because Stevie is clearly the best WR we have on the roster.
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
YEA LETS GIVE SOME CREDIT FOR THE KIDS HEART
he came into the game beat up as he has been playing all season, took some hard hits had to leave the game for a play but kept coming out and going toe to toe with the best and beating him.
by SPCtacular1 on Nov 28, 2011 11:45 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I don't think the question of if we should keep stevie around is much of a question at all
For a guy who schooled Revis all day like he was playing against Leodis, its pretty obvious we should keep him. The real question is at what cost?
I don’t think he should get paid no. 1 money because his lack of clutch play has shown that he isn’t capable of shouldering that burden. He is likely to be the best number 2 in the league, but without a no. 1 his options are limited.
by Wien on Nov 28, 2011 2:17 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
Rec’d. Well said.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:27 PM EST up reply actions
hahahaha excuse me
What number 2s own Darrelle Revis? Wait what number 1s do? got anyone yet I am sitting at the Retired Randy Moss, Larry Fitz if he had a QB,Stevie Johnson, and I bet a couple Johnsons from texas and detroit could make some plays on him. Stevie is clearly number 1 material worth number 1 money. Your logic is way off, David Tyree made a clutch catch does that make him a #1 Receiver? Freddie Mitchell Made some clutch catches. I will take Stevie as my number 1 and you can take your one of these currently unemployed players.
by SPCtacular1 on Nov 28, 2011 2:51 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Sure he owns Revis
but why should the Bills pay a player (no. 1 money) who does well against ONE CB? You give no. 1 money to someone who plays like a no. 1 receiver week in and week out.
by bloppy_ploppy on Nov 28, 2011 5:30 PM EST up reply actions
he has beat quite a few corners
He has about 150 against Revis so clearly the rest of his yards r from beating other corners. Pretty sure his numbers have been par with the elite for the better part of two seasons with the exception of the offensive coma the bills went in the past month.
since becoming a starter Stevie Johnson has routinely scored on and put up yardage on over a dozen different corners, saying its just one is absurd.
The one you mention also happens to be the NFL player most GMs would build a franchise around who isnt a QB. When your going to play such big time threat twice a year having a guy who nullifies his impact is enormous to consistent division success.
And why should the Bills pay him? Because Lee Evans is the closest thing to the next Eric Moulds this team has had despite using tons of resources on WRs over the decade. James Hardy, Roscoe Parrish, Josh Reed, its not like its easy to find guys of Stevies caliber. Most teams and fans would love to have him.
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
Did you mean to say Lee Evans there? A little Freudian slip there?
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
no intention :)
meant to point out how difficult it is to find great receivers that Lee Evans was the closest we got to Eric Moulds since and many werent to happy with Lee
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
Its not just about owning Revis
Its about being the reliable go-to in clutch situations. Its about being able to do what Calvin Johnson and Andre Johnson do; put the ball in their hands and let them win for you. You have to be able to put the team on your back and drive a win (like Fred Jackson can, which is why he IS an elite, no 1 back).
If Stevie catches the game winner against the Steelers last year, or the game winner yesterday to help lead us to the playoffs, then we’d be having a different discussion.
And when I say no 1, I’m not talking about where the coach puts them on the depth chart. There are technically a lot of number 1s in this league (31 to be exact!). What I am talking about is money. Value to the franchise. Your Jerry Rice’s vs your Josh Reeds. Granted Stevie is in a whole other league than Josh Reed, if he wants to get paid no.1 money, he needs to show he is worth it.
by Wien on Nov 28, 2011 5:40 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Definately a possibility I think a clean bill of health at wide out would go a long way for this offense, unfortunately 2 of our now healthy receivers r on injured reserve and in playing shape at this point but unable too. Not two mention the 3 recievers on IR r our best deep threats.
who’s healthy now? Roscoe?
btw rereading my comment, it sounds like Stevie has got bowel trouble. haha
by BillsfanDan on Nov 28, 2011 10:13 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Oh, and next time Stevie cost us a penalty after a TD
Gailey needs to bench him, in that game for several series. The message needs to be made loud and clear that this sort of thing can’t be tolerated.
Rec'd and agree 100%
This article is spot on analysis, very well written, and gets to the real issue. I’m still behind ya’ Stevie, but get “it” figured out!
by buffaloparks on Nov 28, 2011 2:23 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Little Stevie Johnson
He has got a big heart, he’s a courageous kid, and uses his physical skills to the utmost. In a year or two, we will all look back and say, wow, little Stevie Johnson is all grown up! And dominating the league..
"There were a lot of guys that were disappointed, frustrated and down, me included."
- Ryan Fitzpatrick
by Ethan Abeles on Nov 28, 2011 2:29 PM EST reply actions 2 recs
With the season on the line, a voluntary 15 yard penalty for the sake of trying to be funny is inexcusable. You’re right, the penalty did not cost the Bills the game- few singular plays ever do. The reason people are steamed over this incident is that unlike 99.999% of the losing plays that contribute to a loss, this one did not occur when an athlete was trying his best to help his team win and simply wasn’t good enough. This one happened because Johnson took it upon himself to promote himself at a cost to the team and fan base. Personally, as a fan of this franchise, i have very little respect for Stevie Johnson this morning. Johnson has created a persona about himself that screams out for you to notice him and react. That’s 100% by his own doing. Performances invite critical reaction and those out there in the media and fan base who are turned off by Johnson’s hijacking of the spotlight at the expense of the team’s best chances of winning the game are being perfectly reasonable.
"There's only one C.J. Spiller." -Buddy Nix
by Port Royal on Nov 28, 2011 2:35 PM EST reply actions 7 recs
Wow, Port, you said it even better than I could have.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:36 PM EST up reply actions
Two questions
1) did you enjoy or laugh at him when he did the Why So Serious stunt against the Bengals?
2) If the Bills would have won would you feel the same way?
No weekend spent pantsless is a wasted weekend.
by sireric on Nov 28, 2011 2:48 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
2) If the Bills would have won would you feel the same way?
But this is exactly the point. His play does not back up the image he insists on trying to create. And if they just squeaked it out, yes I would have still felt the same way about the penalty.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:49 PM EST up reply actions
Oh, your first question: I can’t ever remember laughing at any TD celebration ever. What one has actually ever been funny?
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:50 PM EST up reply actions
well if you want to split hairs I suppose I could rephrase it it to, find it amusing or enjoyed it. I suppose some have less of a dry sense of humor as you and could actually laugh at one.
No weekend spent pantsless is a wasted weekend.
I laugh at things that I find funny.
I did find it amusing. What I don’t find amusing is that he spends time concocting penalty-drawing celebrations, when he obviously needs to put more work into learning how to catch the ball.
Did Jerry Rice spend his time concocting that kind of stuff? Or did he work harder and harder and harder to make himself better and better and better?
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:55 PM EST up reply actions
He can be funny without getting the penalty, there isn’t a necessary trade-off here.
I have low expectations. But high hopes.
by greysquirrel on Nov 28, 2011 2:59 PM EST up reply actions
if you don't laugh at this one
you have no soul……:p
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
The Big Boy Cometh....Team Jacobs
Marines say Oorah; BBVer's say SUAMBP! say it with me - Suuaahmbp!!!!
by wilddre22 on Nov 28, 2011 7:09 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
LOL......got to rec that
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
Nuts?!
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 8:38 PM EST up reply actions
1.) Personally, no celebration interests me even remotely and probably hasn’t since I was 12 years old (and I don’t recall being all that enamored with them back then either). As far as the Bengals game goes, it went over my head because I hate comic books and comic book movies even more than I hate Tom Brady or Rex Ryan (which is a lot). In any case, that one wasn’t penalized so if Johnson wants to pay 5k to promote himself and the team isn’t penalized, have a ball.
2.) If the Bills had won, it would still be a selfish, needless penalty that hurt the team for the sake of self promotion. It would still piss me off, but obviously it wouldn’t be magnified as closely in this parallel universe. in the universe we live in, however, it is magnified because the Bills lost a tight game where a play here or there changes the outcome and their season was ended as a result. The reality is that bonehead plays get magnified in losses and glossed over in wins.
"There's only one C.J. Spiller." -Buddy Nix
I agree with what youre saying...
But it seems like a stretch to say the celebration had any thing to do with the loss or the drop. Im not so sure that if Stevie was from the same mold of a Marvin Harrison that the drop or the subsequent loss would be any less of an issue.
I live in Philly, and I watched TO get flamed by the media and fans for his me first attitude, as well as AI. But on the flip side, I watched TO carry the Eagles on a busted leg in the Super Bowl and AI carry a team for his career, to the chip, and to a game one victory with a passion rarely equaled. Im not saying it makes the celebrations and bravado any more acceptable but questions about their respective maturity level and work ethic is insane. These guys are gamers and Stevie seems to be very similar whether one can relate to, tolerate it or not.
Whether youre TO or AI, or Marvin or Duncan… the skills and passion are the same. Some people are introverted and some are extroverted.
Fair enough. I am not defending what Johnson did, just that I think his role in that Jets TD is overblown. The botched kickoff by Rayner, (either it was a crappy kick off attempt or a crappy squib attempt, crappy either way) the bad penalty by Dareus, and the Defenses inability to stop the Jets on a 3rd and 10 all seem to loom much larger to me then Johnson’s act whether it was selfish or not.
No weekend spent pantsless is a wasted weekend.
Do you not think it’s possible the coach and the players on defense may have been pissed because of Johnson’s selfishness putting them in that position? Things like that snowball. Or, as Der Jaeger put it in his article this a.m., they can butterfly.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 10:36 AM EST up reply actions
So Rayner was pissed off that is why he fudged the squib attempt? cause lets be honest, Rayner’s horrible kick is what put the team in bad field position more then Johnson’s penalty.
No weekend spent pantsless is a wasted weekend.
Entirely plausible scenario:
- Gailey was pissed at Johnson’s penalty. Calls the squib because he’s concerned about the Jets’ return game (Gailey said he made the squib call because of the combination of the Jets’ return game and the bad field position).
- Rayner is nervous because when was the last time he was in a position of making this kick? When was the last time he had the chance to practice it? Who knows? Rayner was probably more nervous than he would have been otherwise. So he flubs the squib.
- Dareus, a talented player but a rookie nonetheless, is frustrated that the defense is now in the position it’s in, when the team just went up by a TD not long before half time. In frustration he commits a lack-of-discipline penalty.
Is this what happened? I don’t know. But these are the kinds of influences that connect events. Der Jaeger, having commanded large groups of people who depend on each other for their very lives, has seen these kinds of interconnected, related series of events numerous times, I’m sure. I have seen such things as well.
If a person looks at events in an isolated fashion, I don’t believe they are really seeing the reality of how life happens. It would actually be the incredibly talented and mature team that overcomes such a series of events.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:33 PM EST up reply actions
Well we can agree to disagree cause I am not buying that steaming load of crap no matter how hard you try to spin it.
No weekend spent pantsless is a wasted weekend.
by sireric on Nov 30, 2011 12:42 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Flag!
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 30, 2011 1:52 AM EST up reply actions
If Rayner has been at practice for three weeks and not practiced a squib kick….. I don’t even know how to finish this thought without sounding like a cliche. I really hope he practiced one in the time he’s been in Buffalo.
by MattRichWarren on Nov 30, 2011 5:52 AM EST up reply actions
Agreed to a point
I agree that the “downed jet” was stupid, unnecessary, and 100% Stevie’s own doing. I disagree with the assumption that Stevie is doing it to “promote himself”. I can’t divine his intentions but to me at least, it seems as if Stevie is trying more get his team fired up and back on the map. Of course the best way to do that is to just win, baby. Once he figures this out I think he’ll be that Top 10 WR some have said he is.
by buffaloparks on Nov 28, 2011 11:27 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah
That was SJ attempt at improving teams chances to win by incurring a 15yard penalty for “our self promotion”.
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 11:50 PM EST up reply actions
I think johnson’s decision was idiotic. U just dont mock a person who shot himself, couldve died, and ended up in prison. Plaxico’s incident was stupid, but johnson doesn’t have to remind us by being stupid himself. In my eye, it does detract from what players ought to be really focusing on: how to be a better football player and how to better help ure team.
"They’re a very special group of men. Cherish them, you will not see their like again."
by chaucer on Nov 28, 2011 2:39 PM EST via mobile reply actions
@BRIAN GALIFORD EXCELLENT ARTICLE FINALLY SOMEONE WHO KNOWS SOMETHING ABOUT FOOTBALL
Stevie Johnson has beat the best corner in football more than anyone else this season. Did Lee Evans ever beat the best corner in football? Consistantly? TO had trouble getting open against Revis. Stevie is a gamer with a great personaity, and I will almost guarantee that players on his team would agree that his celebration did not affect the outcome of the game in anyway. Most people have misunderstood the celebration thinking that it was the immitation fo burress that garnered the penalty when in reality it was him going to the ground as a jet that caused the 15 yards. Please lock up Stevie long term immediately, he is a spark and breath of fresh-air for the Decade of boring Bills.
by SPCtacular1 on Nov 28, 2011 2:42 PM EST reply actions 5 recs
Lee did beat “the best corner in football” for a verrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrry long TD.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 12:18 PM EST up reply actions
The sad thing is
Key defensive flubs aside, we played the best game against the jets yesterday than we’ve had since Brett Favre was their QB (fugly 2009 win not counting, cuz it was fugly).
There are a LOT of positives to come out of yesterday’s game (we CAN win without Fred, shockingly enough) and its all being overshadowed by foolishness.
Bills fans shouldn’t be hoping that he turns into Lee Evans and becomes boring after scoring (though that would be nice)
Does this mean Bills fans shouldn’t rather see Johnson become more team-focused than me-focused? I can tell you this: I would much rather see the Bills win the Super Bowl with “boring” players than see a bunch of self-absorbed wanna-bes like Johnson lose year after year.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
By the way, please remember that an eloquently written opinion is still an opinion.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 2:51 PM EST up reply actions
"Just win, baby"
is all I’m sayin. If its flashy, if its ugly, if its pretty, if its boring… I don’t care. Just get me the Ws and end this 11-going-on-12-year playoff drought.
No, that’s not what I meant. I meant what I said: people shouldn’t be hoping that Johnson suddenly changes. It’s pretty clear that’s not going to happen – he’s always going to be the guy that “gets creative,” so to speak, to celebrate touchdowns. Can he do it the right way? Yes, and he’d better learn how. Will he suddenly become Barry Sanders in the end zone? No, and hoping he does is pointless.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Nov 28, 2011 2:59 PM EST up reply actions
No, and hoping he does is pointless.
Then I will be hoping the team (read: Gailey) starts requiring a bit more maturity from him. This is easy: fine him or bench him for drawing penalties with his celebrations. This is not difficult.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 28, 2011 3:10 PM EST up reply actions
... And who exactly on the roster is left to play WR?
I thought winning games matters, not some principled statement about dancing and celebrating. What is this Footloose?
not the point......Gailey can make a point with Stevie about his behavior hurting the team,
This is no different than Suh getting benched by the Lions.
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
I knew somebody was gonna bring that up because somebody on the radio did too. It’s complete crap. Suh intentionally tried to hurt another player, drew a penalty, got ejected, then lied about his intent. Johnson insulted another player and drew a penalty and admitted he did a stupid thing. Other than drawing a penalty, it’s not remotely similar.
Gailey can certainly emphasize to Steve that he did a stupid thing. More importantly, I’d like to see his teammates do that. But benching a guy for drawing a penalty that wasn’t malicious (just stupid) is sending the wrong message to the entire team.
Official ledge-talker-offer of the Buffalo Bills.
Citi Field loves the mets so much it smothers them. -the caveman
by WhyBillsWhy on Nov 28, 2011 11:03 PM EST up reply actions
Of course they are to exactly the same thing.....but they are similar in that
both acts drew penalties that hurt their teams, and that both coaches have the power to send a message by issuing a suspension and/or fine to that player …..that was the point. If you really thought I was saying that kicking someone was the same as what Stevie did, then you weren’t paying attention.
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
This is no different than Suh getting benched by the Lions.
If you really thought I was saying that kicking someone was the same as what Stevie did, then you weren’t paying attention.
I thought I was paying attention. I guess you didn’t say explicitly that the incident was the same, but you said the repercussions should be no different. I contend that it is pretty different situation and the penalty should be different.
Sportscenter right now (I love vacation) is saying that Johnson’s getting fined by the league. That is the appropriate response. A strong talking to from the coach and teammates is the appropriate response. Suspension is not the appropriate response. Creating a dangerous situation for other players (e.g. fighting, dirty hits) or yourself (e.g. drugs) deserves a suspension. Making a fool of yourself is not deserving of a penalty. People get unsportsmanlike conduct penalties happens all the time. They don’t suspend everyone that draws them and they shouldn’t.
Official ledge-talker-offer of the Buffalo Bills.
Citi Field loves the mets so much it smothers them. -the caveman
by WhyBillsWhy on Nov 29, 2011 10:05 AM EST up reply actions
Suh has nothing to do with this. The point is that some people (immature people) don’t understand the consequences of their actions until they’re made to feel them.
Gailey has the power to make Johnson feel the consequences of his actions in hurting the team by benching him or fining him as the coach/organization. If Johnson grew up, he would have learned this already (e.g. after drawing the penalty in the Foxboro game last year).
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 10:39 AM EST up reply actions
My point is definitely that Suh’s situation should not apply to Johnson’s. Benching (for a quarter or something) might be warranted if Gailey thinks Stevie doesn’t get it, but otherwise I think it’s just something you let the team work out for itself with Stevie.
Official ledge-talker-offer of the Buffalo Bills.
Citi Field loves the mets so much it smothers them. -the caveman
by WhyBillsWhy on Nov 29, 2011 11:08 AM EST up reply actions
you let the team work out for itself with Stevie.
I am talking about the team working it out. Apparently, whatever Gailey has or hasn’t done before didn’t work.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:35 PM EST up reply actions
oops
Making a fool of yourself is not deserving of apenaltysuspension.
Official ledge-talker-offer of the Buffalo Bills.
Citi Field loves the mets so much it smothers them. -the caveman
by WhyBillsWhy on Nov 29, 2011 10:57 AM EST up reply actions
I love this great article Brian -- it's gotten the juices flowing all across The Rumbling Plain
I hear and feel the frustration of “thefourwinds” and feel the same way about the “is it SO hard to act like you’ve been there before” when you score a TD. However, I believe Stevie is a good enough person (which admittedly is based on nothing more than listening to him speak and watching how he says what he says) to believe that he has enough respect for his teammates NOT to do this type of deal again. Save the heroic celebrations for when you think you made THE play to cement a win. Anything before that is pure showboating and usually will come back to haunt you.
by AlwaysaBillinPhilly on Nov 28, 2011 3:28 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Not conviced...
I dont see how him celebrating is hurting the team, rather than him just enjoying the game, playing hard, and doing it with confidence and a dash of bravado. Plenty of players celebrate, after sacks, after tipped pass, broken up first downs, stuffing the runner, interceptions, etc… Its like saying when Dareus sacks an opposing qb, or wilson makes a clutch int, that they shouldnt celebrate because the defense cant seem to get a stop when it matters in the 4th on most occasions.
Stevie is our best reciever, arguably an elite possesion receiver at 25, catches with his hands, sacrifices his body jump balls, without fear of going over the middle, with the ability to make plays deep and in the 15-20 yard range. All while playing hurt and making numerous blocks downfield for Fred. His maturity shouldnt be in question, nor his work ethic, as dont see it being a detriment to the team. Its the realization that making that play means putting a team on your back when the opportunity arises and making up for the lack of Fred, a porous defense, a kicker that forgets how to kick, Nelson dropping a 3rd down conversion, Spiller not being able to break arm tackles (the list goes on) is the most important thing at the very moment.
That strikes me as being selfless or just blind to severity of the situation and what it means. Because honestly, I didnt look as if he even expected that ball to be there at that moment.
Celebrating
Fine, but it hurts team when he gets penalties for his antics, no brainer.
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 7:27 PM EST up reply actions
Celebration
I am troubled and confused at seeing all these comments about his celebration being entertaining. His act of pretending that he got shot with a gun to make fun of Plaxico was not funny and quite insensitive. Would he have acted like a dog fighter if it was against the Eagles? That he planned it out (obviously) when the Bills have been on a 3 game losing streak, fighting for its life, is really pathetic — that he did it in the middle of the game is really strange behavior. I will be surprised if the league doesn’t fine him (anything relating to guns) — not quite what I wanted my son to read/see about one of our top players.
by labill on Nov 28, 2011 3:38 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
1. I’m pretty sure Stevie actually planned this for the first game against the Jets (too lazy to look it up but I feel like he mentioned that there would be a great TD celebration during the first Jets game).
2. The difference between making fun of Vick and making fun of Plax is that Plax was an IDIOT for what he did. He was seriously DUMB. Vick was a degenerate for his actions — and I think just about everyone in the NFL know that. Plax was just an absolute IDIOT.
"We have an elite pass rushing LB who likes to conserve electricity." -- Munchausen
All I know is Karma is an evil witch...
And teasing her is no way to get ahead in life.
The score dictated they pass
by norcaliangelsfan on Nov 28, 2011 3:39 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Karma
It’s funny you brought that up. IMO, Karma exists. After Plaxico answered with his own touchdown, a TV commentator said, “He who laughs last, laughs best.” To me, the Karma was almost palpable; I knew inside at that moment that we would lose, and by less than a touchdown. I know it’s really not Karma. It’s frustration, it’s pessimism, and the decades the mind has spent building a defense mechanism to try to minimize the heartache later, by already “knowing” beforehand that another disappointment is on the way. Know any good therapists?
"Systems don't win, players do." - Marv Levy
by Tasker4HOF on Nov 28, 2011 8:58 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Wow
As bad as this sounds I understand exactly. Feel your pain. Just left a therapist and all they have are pills!
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but still family.
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 10:52 PM EST up reply actions
This is all one big misunderstanding
It was a mistake that I’m sure he won’t make again.
Johnson is or should be our future. We have to realize that commentators began to use words like Fitz is “picking on” Revis. That is absolutely nuts! It tells us that we have a QB and WR combination that is without conscience and fear. That’s what we want in this division. Revis is not going anywhere, so we better have a legit answer for him.
The penalty is the price we pay for youth and for bravado. I recall Moulds making a similar mistake (not quite the same) and I recall Reed dropping some significant passes. We give away too many players because we think they are not top-notch talents when we should have kept them. Sj is a keeper for #1 money. If we can keep our homegrown talent and make key acquisitions, then we can build a winning team with the appropriate depth.
Good write up. The real story is SJ’s success against Revis and Fitz’s pretty-good performance.
by Ono on Nov 28, 2011 3:39 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
This is SO important.
We give away too many players because we think they are not top-notch talents when we should have kept them.
Think of all the former Bills still playing around the league and imagine if they were still here. London Fletcher, Spikes, Winfield, McGahee, Lynch… it just goes on and on. Even Ashton Youbouty had a great play for the Jags on Sunday.
Until the Bills stay dedicated to a core group of guys, they will be doormats. I think Nix has been given the green light to follow that plan. Kelsay and Fitz were the first steps. Now they need to deal with Stevie. Despite the penalties and the drops. they need to find a way to keep him if they expect to go to the next level.
"Teams that don't deserve to win.... usually don’t. Today is no exception." -- Mr Huge Pecs
"Nick Barnett is everywhere. He is behind you right now." -- Munchausen
by ChuckBuffInFlo on Nov 29, 2011 9:14 AM EST up reply actions
I just want to applaud the fantastic Chris Watson reference.
Formerly of thatguy34 fame.
"And the best decision of my life proved to be the day I signed with the Buffalo Bills." - Jim Kelly
Chris Watson
worst player to ever wear a Bills uniform, IMO
by JustAskTheAxis on Nov 28, 2011 4:47 PM EST up reply actions
I thought that was John McCargo :-)
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
Its kind of sad how this blog has better coverage than professional media
While i could focus on the way that the national media consistently twists stories to fit pre scripted narratives I wont open that can of worms. I just want to focus on my thoughts on the Jets game/bills season.
First Re the Jets game while Stevie dropping the seam route and taking the personal foul (did anyone else know that you aren’t allowed to fall down in the end zone) definitely hurt the Bills still had a ton of chances to win that game: e.g. if cheddar plax doesn’t make that ridiculous one handed catch, or if Florence made that interception on the final drive, if fitz throws that pass to stevie six inches towards the goal posts on the scramble, if brad smith is able to catch that pass in the corner of the end zone, if the D had held the jets to a FG at any point, if Rayner doesn’t botch that squib kick etc etc. This isn’t to blame any people but just to point out that one guy didn’t win or lose that game.
It was definitely nice to see the offense rebound from its horrendous play and it was good to see fitz putting up some good #s against a very good Jets pass D. I’m also pretty sure that Stevie’s outing against Revis is probably the best by a WR this year but will wait for data from FO and profootballfocus to back that up. The defense just wasn’t good enough for them to win, two really abysmal plays by RDE or ROLB not setting the edge were big parts but allowing 6 ypc to the jets isn’t going to cut it going forward.
As for the bill season, first and foremost it totally sucks that we are now unlikely to make the playoffs. I think the best case scenario at this point is a 7-9 or 8-8 record. however if you had polled bills fans that given the injuries we suffered I think pretty much everyone would be really happy with our record, so a bit of perspective is probably in order.
Also its nice to see the rookies getting some game experience. While there have certainly been some rookie mistakes getting these guys some valuable experience will only help depth and talent base improve going forward.
So i guess i’m more optimistic than most right now although at some point the team does need to develop more consistency, right now this team isn’t just good enough from a talent perspective or consistent enough to compete w/ the upper echelon teams. Its a process and this team has improved to the point where I’m confident they will get there in the near future.
by jdmce on Nov 28, 2011 4:24 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
Rec’d.
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Nov 28, 2011 6:23 PM EST up reply actions
I agree with you almost completely and Rec’d you — except for the falling to the ground thing. Stevie KNOWS it is against the rules to fall to the ground since he is:
1. An NFL Player who should know basic rules that the fans know
2. Since he fell to the ground in that AWESOME celebration at the Patriots game last year where he mimic’d the minutemen.
"We have an elite pass rushing LB who likes to conserve electricity." -- Munchausen
Celebration vs. Dropped Passes
I think the lapse in Johnson’s play was not the celebration, but the dropped passes in our last drive. I mean that celebration was not the only penalty committed that cost us a drive or led to the jets scoring a td….But his dropped passes did inevitably lead to our loss
I think people need to chill a little bit.
The 1st drop was all on him, no excuse to drop that one. The 1 in the endzone is on Fitz just as much as it is on Stevie. The celebration DID NOT cost buffalo the game. Dave Rayner’s epic fail did. Celebration didn’t offend me and if you ask most Jets fans, it didn’t offend them either. Plaxico Burress snuck a gun into a night club and shot himself in the leg. This wasn’t the 1st time somebody joked about and it won’t be the last. I mean dang, there is a poll on ESPN that asks if you were running the Bills would you cut Stevie Johnson for his celebration. Seriously hope Buffalo doesn’t use this as an excuse to not resign him, but they probably will.
Twitter @J_Clark_1989
it was still a dumb penalty but I agree that stevie played well (mostly)
People shouldn’t expect perfection from NFL players. We examine all of our guys under a microscope and jump all over them every time they make a mistake. Obviously some mistakes make you want to shake your head (like Stevie’s wide-open drop at the 20-yard line near the end), but others are just not easy to do.
Take the first end zone miss to Stevie – I know replay shows that Stevie was “wide open” with Poole and Revis 2-3 feet to his left, and that Fitz threw behind him. But if you look at how that play happened, I still think Fitz did the right thing to put the ball where he did. Poole was coming fast from right to left and went right past Stevie. If Fitz didn’t put the ball a little behind Stevie, he could’ve risked Poole picking it off. My point is, we shouldn’t jump to conclusions about Fitz missing Stevie or Stevie not being able to turn around and grab the ball from 2 feet away. It’s just not that easy to do and we don’t have a Montana-Rice connection here. I’m hoping they improve though!
by paythemannow on Nov 28, 2011 5:34 PM EST up reply actions
there is a poll on ESPN that asks if you were running the Bills would you cut Stevie Johnson for his celebration
Thats outrageous, more NFL players than I can count have done far worse things to human and animal life and dignity and ESPN puts this poll up because a guy was having a laugh at precisely one of those clowns who put human life in jeopardy by bringing a loaded firearm without the safety on into a crowded nightclub? Big Ben at the very least, doesnt appear to have much respect for women. If the worst Big Ben is guilty of is getting college girls drunk and treating them like garbage and he doesnt get a poll neither should Stevie. And thats painting Big Ben in a very generous light for all we know. How shameful of ESPN.
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
by poz on Nov 28, 2011 7:27 PM EST up reply actions 6 recs
rec'd....I have been saying for how long that the talking heads at ESPN hate the Bills
If this doesn’t prove it, nothing will.
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
its horrible and irresponsible
then again, their demographic is shrinking to college students so I guess they are desperate for stories.
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
LOL....
their demographic is shrinking …
TWSS :-)
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
That sounds like a problem. Or is it?
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 11:36 AM EST up reply actions
+1 Poz.
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Nov 28, 2011 8:14 PM EST up reply actions
Right on, poz!
I noticed the other night that Ben is married. The shot they put up of him pretending to throw a pass showed the ring. I have to wonder what his wife thinks of his behavior.
If Buffalo were a good team, they’d paint this all differently. They’d say that it seems unfair to bash Stevie for something that was done in the heat of the moment as a showman. There’s little to talk about now that Jackson is done. He was the player that audiences flocked to in a positive way.
I just can’t wait for the day when the Bills are no longer pushovers or the butt of jokes. For one, I hope they run the score up on the Patriots as they’ve been wont to do, and bowl over every team that’s in their way en route to a championship season.
No mercy. No forgiveness. How ’ya like me now?
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 11:36 AM EST up reply actions
I noticed the other night that Ben is married. The shot they put up of him pretending to throw a pass showed the ring. I have to wonder what his wife thinks of his behavior.
The wedding took place this past off-season I think. I’m pretty sure his wife knows his behavior better than any of us does.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:36 PM EST up reply actions
I also remember reading it was someone he’s known for a while.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:37 PM EST up reply actions
Well articulated. Keep Stevie. He’ll learn. In the meantime, we’ll suffer. Were a few draft picks short of defense anyhow. Pass rush anyone?
by riverraynz on Nov 28, 2011 5:16 PM EST via mobile reply actions
It has to sting them watching Maybin get to the QB.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 11:36 AM EST up reply actions
Chan should put in a rule (as should every other coach)
No celebrations, period. You can spike the ball. You can jump up and down and maybe even into the stands. You can high five each other. Absolutely no gimmicks or you’ll get benched.
Somehow the only coach I can see putting in a rule like this is the Hooded One.
Gronkowski does a little dance in the endzone, so the Hooded One hasn’t put any rule in place. And I don’t want Chan to either.
by PineWoodsBillsFan on Nov 28, 2011 5:39 PM EST up reply actions
I disagree, I’d like the players to show a little personality. How else can I relate to them? Their ability to obey rules? Screw rules.
"We have an elite pass rushing LB who likes to conserve electricity." -- Munchausen
I have noticed those who follow the rules in their career hardly ever get to great heights. Those who break them and create their own are bound by no one and nothing.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 11:37 AM EST up reply actions
I seem to remember Jerry Rice following the rules, and as I recall, he turned out to be a pretty good WR…
by jcey on Nov 29, 2011 11:53 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Damn you for bringing one of my all-time favorite players into this discussion! Technically he did break the rules. He was “slow” and unselfish.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 12:15 PM EST up reply actions
What have Peyton or Brady done that breaks the rules? Barry Sanders… I don’t see the logic of your argument.
by MattRichWarren on Nov 30, 2011 5:55 AM EST up reply actions
I didnt see the game or the celebration
Although I’ve read a lot about it here and in other columns. I think part of building a team has to do with the players really enjoying the game, team and others around them to be successful. I see it as Steve trying to be a leader on the team and trying to make the environment better. Every time he talks, its about making the team better or how he screwed up. I don’t really see him talking about how good.he is and all he’s achieved.
I think if we want boring, we get the same uninspiring teams Jauron used to put out there. I like a little flair, this obviously went a little.too far though.
Imho, Johnson is definately worth #1 money. He had some bad games in there, but he’s also been hurt for a while. Beating revis like a rented mule (well maybe not quite) shows he can be elite.
by Gr8fulnfa on Nov 28, 2011 5:46 PM EST via mobile reply actions
On a somewhat related note, Sione Pouha said the plane part of the dance was especially hurtful…“kind of like a dagger”…because of the 9/11 attacks 10 years ago. Nothing against the victims and families, but come on man. That’s a bit of a reach there. I’m pretty sure Holmes has done the dance since then.
Pouha said that.....Really???????
What a bunch of CRAP!!!!!!!!!
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
Nevermind the fact that it reflects poorly on a team for signing a convicted felon who has little regard for the safety of those around him when bringing a loaded gun into a night club. And for wearing sweatpants in public! Come on man!
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 11:39 AM EST up reply actions
All the kids are wearing sweatpants in public…. I don’t understand it.
by MattRichWarren on Nov 30, 2011 5:55 AM EST up reply actions
As a Jet Fan
I agree that Pouha is out of left field with that comment.
As for Johnson, I was at the game and he looked like a bit amateurish with his celebration. No doubt he is a great receiver, but act like you’ve been there before. Doing 2 seperate TD celebrations after a 2 yard slant and flopping to the ground was childish IMO and I was happy to see it directly lead to a TD to other way.
by SantonioBurress on Nov 28, 2011 6:19 PM EST up reply actions
Interesting.....so what did you think of Maybin's little sack celebration?
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
by Joe P. on Nov 28, 2011 6:44 PM EST up reply actions 4 recs
thanks poz....I WAS trying to block that out ......one was bad enough :-)
"Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances." - Sun Tzu
If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.
Funny
I saw a flash of green was that Maybin maybe? Seriously though Maybin didn’t tackle anybody hows that a sack? It’s a Mabeen sack! If he’d hit Fitz Maybin probably would fell down and cried!
Home Of The Neverending Rebuild. Question Authority!
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 7:36 PM EST up reply actions
I thought the announcers were hilarious on Maybin’s second sack. They talked about how fast Maybin was and how Fitz never felt him coming. Fitz had already taken a few steps forward and had begun scrambling a few more yards forward when Maybin tackled him. If Fitz never felt him, why the heck did he start scrambling?
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 10:43 AM EST up reply actions
I gotta watch that highlight again. Did Fitz tuck the ball in?
If so thats not technically a sack as the QB is a runner. I believe Merriman lost a sack because of that.
by NordicBillsfan on Nov 29, 2011 1:28 PM EST up reply actions
Good question. I think he had tucked it in, but I wouldn’t bet my life on it.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:38 PM EST up reply actions
But if he’s tackled behind the LOS, it’s still a sack.
"Teams that don't deserve to win.... usually don’t. Today is no exception." -- Mr Huge Pecs
"Nick Barnett is everywhere. He is behind you right now." -- Munchausen
by ChuckBuffInFlo on Nov 30, 2011 8:35 AM EST up reply actions
Its so funny hiw every week a bills player is crucified
The dude beat Revis all day. He dropped two passes. Where were the other receivers? Chandler dropped one clutch pass as well. As far as the touchdown, big deal. I have no sympathy for bone head-thugs bringing guns into clubs, endangering other people and shooting themselves. The TD Celebration was funny and it wasn’t the reason the Jets scored; it was Rayner’s botched kick. When is Lindell coming back?
Hey Bills fans, just wanted to say great game yesterday
Stevie Johnson is a beast, not very many recievers can say they have gotten the better of Revis. I really didn’t think the he was that out of line, we need more creative TD celebrations.
Oh yes that's right, I'm a Jets fan.
by Bob_The_Friendly_Baker on Nov 28, 2011 8:01 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
classy comment
and it was a great game. It had a playoff atmosphere and both teams acted like it
This even grates my passive cheese - LeClaire Bill
Very cordial of you Sir! It was a fun game to watch. Until we lost.
:-(
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Nov 28, 2011 8:16 PM EST up reply actions
Totally agree with all of this.
See, thing is that this seems to me to be who Stevie IS. He is a prankster, a jokester, clowning around. I don’t see it as “me first,” as some people have said. Remember, he dressed up as Chan for Halloween. Remember, he had Merriman put his “Lights out” on the elevator. The whole “Why so serious?” thing. I truly think that most of the time he gets the laughs. Did he take it too far this time? Yup. But that’s the thing. Most of us were laughing up till now, and I think he’s got some growing up to do. He’s got to know where the line is. He crossed it, he’s paying the price. But, I’m HOPING he learned something and won’t do it again. That said, I’d totally love to see him dress up as Ralph Wilson for next halloween. This is who this guy IS. He’s the class clown that everyone laughs along with until he gets sent to the principal’s office.
He owned Revis. Who has done that this year? And it DOES matter. You can learn not to draw a stupid penalty for celebrating. You can learn that fast. How long does it take to learn to take on one of THE best players in the league?
The drops hurt. That is a whole other issue. And one that needs to be looked at. But I think that this is a guy that has a lot of potential, if he can curb his enthusiasim a little. He needs to grow up a bit, and I think that he will. And watch out in the future if he does.
"...and dance by the light of the moon!"
by bflogrl on Nov 28, 2011 9:18 PM EST reply actions 4 recs
Why So Serious?
Because his actions reflect badly on team why shouldn’t that be viewed seriously? This is a game but with financial repercussions and his antics effect the whole team and organization. This is a team game and unless you consider the Bill’s a joke I’d not be so inclined to dismiss SJ antics. Clowns are great in the circus, not football.
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but still family.
by buffalobacker on Nov 28, 2011 11:00 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Not dismissing at all. By “Why So Serious” I’m referring to what he painted on his shirt in last year’s Bengals game.
I do think he went overboard. I also think he learned something from this. I’m willing to bet that he won’t do it again.
"...and dance by the light of the moon!"
Cool
Re-read your post over and over. I tend to read the way I listen, lets just say I’m a poor listener. Always nice to read your posts here. I’m not so sure he’s learned anything, I hope I’m wrong, only for teams sake,because I hate being wrong!:) Thanks for clarifaction.
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 29, 2011 9:48 PM EST up reply actions
Stevie is a steal
He is a team leader…he should be locked up long term and given a good compliment on the other side to draw away some of his coverages and open him up…DJ isnt that…and the jury is out on Easley…concerning the mocking of Plax…probly wasnt the best decision, but it wasnt the worst either…ppl need to get over it…like i said earlier, the defense is the real issue,,,they couldnt even hold the Jets to a FG on that last drive…that play Burress made on 3rd and 11 was the game…
A lot of people seem to be processing this situation through the idea that such a thing like “excessive celebration” exists and it is an inherently bad thing.
Excessive celebration doesn’t exist. It’s a made-up thing brought up by a league that carefully tries to keep it’s business from getting too “urban” and not scare away “conservative” advertisers. If you want to argue that what Stevie did was dumb because he knew that he would get a 15 yard penalty and cost his team, that’s fine. But there should be more people here defending the right to celebrate however the hell he wants.
NFL is entertainment. Watching people like Bob Costas crap all over a favorite player of mine so he can get ratings and feel better about himself is not entertaining to me. I don’t enjoy public castrations. There goes Stevie’s personality.
by MusicHunch on Nov 29, 2011 12:35 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
What?
Getting to urban? What does that mean? Its agame with rules, if you want play, play by rules not hard to understand. Whats a game without rules? Mayhem.
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 29, 2011 1:07 AM EST up reply actions
Don’t play dumb, you know exactly what urban means in the NFL context.
I am well aware it’s a rule, however, I think it’s a stupid rule. Just because some corporate old guys in suits created a “rule” does not mean I live and die by it.
Urban
I’m gonna go out on a limb here, urban, city dweller? opposite of rural. I’m not playing dumb so I quess I am:( Oh geesh, really race? I live in Seattle is that urban? NFL context sorry Musichunch theres a dis connect here sorry for not being hip to your lingo. I’d rather be ignorant I’m feeling.
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 29, 2011 9:53 PM EST up reply actions
Hip to lingo? More like hip to political correctness.
I’d rather you argue the point than unnecessarily apologize in a snarky manner.
No Worries
Lets let this go. I truly have no clue what you assume I know about how urban relates to NFL context.. Was trying to be nice by saying theres a dis connect. Forget that lets be mortal enemies, snarky enough for ya?
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 30, 2011 1:51 AM EST up reply actions
Castrations?
Did I miss a public castration? Did someone take SJ’s personality from him? Think its more like TMI!! Catch ball score TD’s than prance!
Buffalo Bill's are like family to me. dysfunctional mind you, but after some thought, just like my family:) Go Bill's!
by buffalobacker on Nov 29, 2011 1:10 AM EST up reply actions
Castration. Catch ball. Prance? Oh my!
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 11:31 AM EST up reply actions
Is Stevie's agent in here pretending to be a Rumbler?!
I love the Bills, and despite how frustrated I am with him, I like Stevie. I want the Bills to re-sign him as long as it’s not an outrageous contract. But I feel like WAY too many people in here have on blinders by just ignoring what happened this week, and with the words used to describe Stevie. Elite?! Really?! There’s no way Stevie is at the “Elite” level like Calvin Johnson, Welker, or Andre Johnson. MAYBE one day, but he’s certainly not there. When you look at his receiving yards for the year, he’s been an average #1 receiver. But what concerns me is that he really hasn’t stepped up as a #1 WR. Only 10 other WR’s have been targeted more than Stevie, but yet 24 other WR’s have more receiving yards than him. He’s also only ranked 64th in yards after catch. Are these average at best numbers partially a product of the offensive scheme? Certainly. But “Elite” and top tier WRs not only catch the ball in clutch situations, but make things happen after the catch.
Stevie is elite in his route running – he doesn’t have the physical attributes of a Megatron or Andre Johnson but he’s also not tall and lanky like them so his route running gets him open – he is an elite route runner. He just needs to haul on clutch passes but honestly those drops happen to every WR.
For me – I was more than impressed with him dominating Revis – that should be the discussion. Not the drop and certainly not some stupid TD celebration. We should be talking about how our 25 year old WR just dominated a CB who most consider the best to ever play the game.
by J2 on Nov 29, 2011 9:17 AM EST up reply actions
IMO it’s about the Ws. Sorry, but I would rather have little to no production most of the game, and then step it up when it mattered (i.e. Tebow) than someone that can beat arguably the top CB most of the game, then not produce when it matters. That’s what I’m talking about here, and that’s what I think Brian’s original post was all about. Yes, Stevie showed he has the ability to compete with the best, but when the game was on the line, he didn’t come through. Everyone has drops. Sure, but what separates the greats from the rest is that the greats can be counted on in the clutch.
Tebow has injected tiger blood in all of his teammates’ veins. The dude is infectious and they love playing with and for him.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 11:29 AM EST up reply actions
he’s 25 – he’ll be fine. All the best receivers drop balls and they have dropped them in clutch situations. He’ll be fine. If he was 30 i’d say sure – but he’s not. Let him grow and mature – he was a 7th round pick
he was a 7th round pick
…that wants to be paid like Larry Fitzgerald.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:39 PM EST up reply actions
I can't remember the last time the Bills had a flamboyant WR that dropped balls...
Oh wait that’s right TO. I’m pretty sure a lot of you naysayers were in favor of the Bills signing him. In fact some of you still have his Jersey somewhere in your house. Bottom line is Stevie is a talent. He is not washed up with child support problems (at least not that I know of). I don’t see how you can’t think of him as a #1 receiver. He has the ability to make plays against the best corner in the league. Something that most other #1s in the could not do. He is immature I’ll give you that but so was I at his age. Give it time and see what happens. He has shown that he care about this team and the fact that it does hit him hard when he makes mistakes shows that he cares. He takes the blame, which is something the other pre-madonna in the league tend not to do. Lastly I so sick of hearing about Lee Evans. Rumor is he wanted out. Whether that is true or not I don’t know. However I remember Lee dropping quite a few passes in the last couple of years and played somewhat uninspired football. He has done nothing at Baltimore albetit he was hurt. He had a big contract and we gained a pick for him.
My thoughts exactly.
Well, almost. I still think Revis is only considered to be the greatest in the game today because teams don’t challenge him enough, or at least in ways that expose his weaknesses. Stevie played under him most of the day, and used his ability to confuse Revis’ legs both before and after the catch.
Revis is vulnerable to the unpredictable. That may seem like common sense, but I think most teams simply don’t get creative when playing him. They ignore him and pad his shutdown stats. Of course you’re going to be a shutdown corner if you don’t get thrown on.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 10:04 AM EST reply actions
I contend that there aren’t many receivers that can run the type of routes that Stevie was running on Sunday. He was making triple moves to get open, and making it look easy.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Definitely. Stevie is a great route runner who can make more moves than most in less time than almost anyone. It’d be one thing to sit there for 5 seconds dancing around, but he does it in the time most other players make one move.
I guess i’m not trying to say Revis isn’t great. It’s pretty much proven he is. But I think it’s due in large part to the fact that he’s ignored most of the time. It’s hard to improve against him when teams don’t try to beat him.
Buffalo has had success against him in the past. That horrible long bomb Losman threw cold off the bench to Evans for a TD – that was against Revis and in Jersey.
So it’s obvious there’s elite talent within Revis, but there are weaknesses to his game which render him human.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 11:28 AM EST up reply actions
I certainly think more teams should go after him, but he gets a pass break up or pick early and they shy away. I like that the Bills attack him.
I remember that throw. Honestly, if Losman were a better decision maker….alright, enough with fantasy land.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
If Losman weren’t Losman……
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 1:06 PM EST up reply actions
I saw a stat a couple of weeks ago
That the QBs passer rating when throwing at Revis was like a 3.4. With 13 PDs….That’s pretty good.
Stevie is the Buffalo Bills’ Will Ferrell: hardly ever normal, serious, or predictable…but always entertaining and full of personality.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 11:23 AM EST reply actions
hardly ever normal, serious, or predictable…but always entertaining and full of personality.
Which is what Will Ferrell is paid to do/be. Johnson is paid to catch the ball and score TDs.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:40 PM EST up reply actions
Cut him
He has proven to be an idiot on several occasions. There are far too many talented WRs in the NFL to allow for that idiot to repeatedly give our city black eyes. Clearly, he places himself above the team, so we should send him a message.
by CPT Shawn on Nov 29, 2011 11:41 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Well, you can’t cut him, and the team obviously isn’t going to. Sounds like you need to concoct a different message.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Nov 29, 2011 12:05 PM EST up reply actions
OK, well suspend him for a game
As as athlete, he needs to realize that he has the potential to be a role model, but, instead, he routinely shows that he’s really just a child.
If the organization wants him to be effective, they need to do more than say “he needs to make better decisions” in a press conference. If they want him to grow up, they need to let him know that it won’t be tolerated.
If you’re going to lose, lose with your dignity intact. In case nobody has realized, we’ve missed the playoffs for about a decade, so there’s no room to be cocky. Worry about winning games, and not your stupid, inane endzone celebration.
I’ve lived outside Buffalo for about a decade. I take a lot of pride in being from WNY, because of the close-knit community and blue-collar mentality. I don’t see Buffalo in the national spotlight very often, but when I do, I like it to be positive so it reflects the way the real people from WNY really act. When I see some idiot disgrace the Buffalo name with some pointless celebration, then drop two clutch passes, I get very upset. Fred Jackson reflects the true Buffalo; Stevie Johnson is the exact opposite. He needs to grow up or find somewhere else to make a fool of himself.
End rant.
by CPT Shawn on Nov 29, 2011 12:42 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Media asked Gailey yesterday if he’d consider suspending him; Gailey said that he’d let the league handle discipline. Third time’s the charm? :)
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Nov 29, 2011 1:29 PM EST up reply actions
Gailey said that he’d let the league handle discipline.
Hmm, I wonder if Gailey is maybe thinking this team is more mature than it is. Learning how to lead the people you have under you is an important aspect of leadership. Either that or Gailey is just a bit old and doesn’t relish having to be back in the role of disciplinarian. Heck, I’m only 40, and I’m already tired of having to discipline my kids.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:43 PM EST up reply actions
If there were far too many talented WRs in the NFL, the Bills would be in a much better place today.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Nov 29, 2011 12:13 PM EST up reply actions
See above
And, if you ask me, he’s not a special talent. I think David Nelson outplays him every week.
by CPT Shawn on Nov 29, 2011 12:46 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I’d laugh, but I’m too stunned.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
What was funny?
The Nelson part or my comments about Johnson?
by CPT Shawn on Nov 29, 2011 2:08 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I think David Nelson outplays him every week.
And everyone around the league sees this, including the Jets defense. That’s why they had their best CB on David…..oh, nevermind, he was covering Stevie the whole day. Well they lucked out that Nelson didn’t have a bigger day.
by NordicBillsfan on Nov 29, 2011 1:35 PM EST up reply actions
This
Is what we call a subjective assessment. You might also refer to it as an opinion. Notice the word choice: “I think”
Also, defense covers based off of who is targeted the most, not strictly based on talent.
My point is that Stevie is nothing special. There are plenty of people that would step up an produce without the attitude. Remember: making it in the NFL is 1/2 talent and 1/2 getting the right chances….
by CPT Shawn on Nov 29, 2011 2:16 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Well they lucked out that Nelson didn’t have a bigger day.
Part of that has to do with Fitz not targeting him more. Look at the beginning of the last drive. Nelson, Chandler, Nelson. All catches. Look at the end of the drive. Other than when Smith had a chance to make a spectacular TD catch and the Cromartie knocked the ball away, all the rest where targeting Johnson. Not a single one of those was completed.
If anything, not enough blame has fallen on Fitz for going back to Johnson play after play in that situation.
Give a monkey a typewriter and infinite time, and he’ll eventually release Maybin. -- stetzwebs
No one circles the waiver wire like the Buffalo Bills!
by thefourwinds on Nov 29, 2011 4:46 PM EST up reply actions
Cut him?
Whoa! That’s pretty severe.
Its not like he beat his wife, got arrested for cocaine, wrecked his car while drunk, or weapons posession.
All of those players are still in the league.
Steve just had a stupid, regretable TD celebration. He didn’t hurt anybody.
Coach put him in his place and he will be fine how.
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Nov 29, 2011 9:24 PM EST up reply actions
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