Published October 12, 2008 01:59 am - For all but the winless, it’s too early to declare full-scale panic. For all but the unbeaten, it’s too soon to assume the sky won’t fall.
Steve Doerschuk, on the NFL: Taking stock at the quarter pole AFC North squads facing very difficult sledding rest of way
STEVE DOERSCHUK Canton Repository
For all but the winless, it’s too early to declare full-scale panic. For all but the unbeaten, it’s too soon to assume the sky won’t fall.
All 32 NFL teams have passed the quarter pole. Many, depending on how the bye weeks fall, are a game past it.
All can wonder what their worlds will look like when the next quarter pole is reached.
Here is one view of selected teams for which that next destination could look radically different than today.
Better days ahead
n Seahawks (1-3) — Mike Holmgren’s five straight playoff seasons tell you all you need to know about his ability to right a ship. Matt Hasselbeck, 33, didn’t lose it overnight. Next four: Packers, at Buccaneers, at 49ers, Eagles.
n Eagles (2-3) — They won’t be relaxing anytime soon after blowing a 14-0 lead against Washington. Despite their losing record, the Eagles have outscored the other guys 127-97. Next four: At 49ers, Falcons, at Seahawks, Giants.
n Vikings (2-3) — Brad Childress found a way off the hot seat last year, following a 2-5 start with a 6-1 run. He still doesn’t have a quarterback. He still has that running back. Next four: Lions, at Bears, Texans, Packers.
n Raiders (1-3) — When the light comes on for JaMarcus Russell, Big Al can coach the team via video conference, and opponents will still have to worry. Next four: At Saints, Jets, at Ravens, Falcons.
Watch for a fall
n Titans (5-0) — One can get away with Vince Young’s disappointments and Kerry Collins’ mediocrity when one’s opponents are a combined 5-17. Soon enough, Jeff Fisher will be swimming into the sharks. Next four: At Chiefs, Colts, Packers, at Bears.
n Cowboys (4-1) — At some point, T.O. figures to implode, and at this point, indications are the Adam Jones experiment already has. Next four: At Cardinals, at Rams, Buccaneers, at Giants.
n Steelers (4-1) — Winning at Jacksonville was impressive, but Ben Roethlisberger will be toast by Turkey Day if he keeps getting the stuffing knocked out of him. The schedule is ominous. Next four: At Bengals, Giants, at Redskins, Chargers.
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