well, obviously, we're hearing a lot about this around here, but I do appreciate the ping to the article.
freddie IS hilarious. awful nice guy, too. while he has been something of a disappointment, I think part of that is a consequence of how the WR depth chart has evolved over Reid's time here. and he'll always have 4th-and-26. those who claim it's not as big because they didn't win the SB obviously have never heard of the immaculate reception. (sorry for the tangent, was saving LVD another embarassing conversation there)
anyway, about 15 months ago, he (FredEx) picked a fight with one of my favorite radio personalities (steve fredericks, 610 wip AM, since retired), and fell out of favor with me for doing so. but, believe it or not, his on-field antics have DECREASED since his elevation to a starting role - he's handled it well. all he ever asked for was a chance to prove himself, and I think he's done so (I think 4 TDs in 5 games since Owens was hurt?)
in any event, anyone who thinks this will have any effect on the game is either deluding themselves or worrying too much.
what concerns ME is that Freddie may be the odd man out around here, with Owens/Pinkston/Lewis signed long term. I'd like to see Billy McMullen get on the field a bit more.
I _do_ find it interesting that with the exception of Owens (who hasn't even played in the playoffs yet), there isn't a single high-profile WR on either superbowl team. his immediate productivity seems to be the exception to the rule for free-agent WR acquisitions.
incidentally, any interest on that charity wager I offered regarding him?
(sorry for the long answer to a short ping, sitting on hold with the damn cable company)
About Owens playing (time)?
Nah. I have no dog in that fight. I don't much care if he does or doesn't, and I'm not nearly as close to the Philly sports news as you. I see the Patriots testing him at the line of scrimmage to see if that foot is really healed. We'll see.
But, next year, if you ever need some inside dope (oops, can't use that these days) on the Steeler personnel, let me know. I'm somewhat close to the team.
By the way, I'm thinking this thread will go on through the Super Bowl. Good!
Good luck with your team. Here's hoping it's a great game, and that the ultimate victor wins because of excellent play, not some fluke bounces or referee's calls. Better that the BEST team win. It should be great. Philly has a chance because of all that great soup Ms. McNabb is feeding those guys!
(Cable guy get it done?)