NFL Preview 2012

Page 1

September 2012

Cam, Act II

Cam Newton leads the Carolina Panthers into the 2012 NFL season.

VOTE AND RE-ELECT

GENE ROBINSON MAYOR OF ANNISTON

3x3” ad It’s Clearly “2012 NFL Sponsor”

✔ the Right Choice!

Paid political adv. by the committee to elect Gene Robinson Mayor • 1000 Noble Street • Anniston, Alabama 36201


2012 NFL PREVIEW 2011 Record: 13-3, first place, AFC East; 2-1 in postseason, lost to Giants in Super Bowl XLVI Head Coach: Bill Belichick, 13th season Additions: LB Bobby Carpenter, CB Marquice Cole, WR Brandon Lloyd, WR Donte Stallworth, WR Jabar Gaffney, RB Joseph Addai, G Robert Gallery Departures: RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, WR Chad Ochocinco, DE Andre Carter, DE Mark Anderson, LB Gary Guyton, CB Antwaun Molden

Season preview: The team drafted defenders in the first six rounds. Unfortunately with Carter and Anderson gone, draftees Jones and Bequette represent downgrades in the pass rush, which puts additional pressure on the secondary, which wasn’t great to begin with. Hightower joins an already strong linebacker corps. On offense, Tom Brady gets the No. 1 receiver he needed in Lloyd, plus additional targets in Gaffney and Stallworth. New England’s high-octane offense will likely carry them to another division title, but the defense will stop Tom them short once again in January. Brady Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “Defensively, how they fit these young players in will determine their playoff run.”

Key Draft Picks: DE Chandler Jones (1), LB Dont’a Hightower (1), S Tavon Wilson (2), DE Jake Bequette (3) Wk 1 - at Tennessee Sept. 9 (CBS)

Wk 10 - Buffalo Nov. 11 (CBS)

Wk 2 - Arizona Sept. 16 (Fox)

Wk 11 - Indianapolis Nov. 18 (CBS)

Wk 3 - at Baltimore Sept. 23 (NBC)

Wk 12 - at N.Y. Jets Nov. 22 (NBC) (Thurs.)

Wk 4 - at Buffalo Sept. 30 (CBS)

Wk 13 - at Miami Dec. 2 (CBS)

Wk 5 - Denver Oct. 7 (CBS)

Wk 14 - Houston Dec. 10 (ESPN) (Mon.)

Wk 6 - at Seattle Oct. 14 (CBS)

Wk 15 - San Francisco Dec. 16 (NBC)

Wk 7 - N.Y. Jets Oct. 21 (CBS)

Wk 16 - at Jacksonville Dec. 23 (CBS)

Wk 8 - at St. Louis Oct. 28 (CBS)

Wk 17 - Miami Dec. 30 (CBS)

Wk 9 - Bye

*Check local listings; subject to change.

2011 Record: 8-8, second place, AFC East Head Coach: Rex Ryan, fourth season Additions: QB Tim Tebow, S Yeremiah Bell, WR Chaz Schilens, S LaRon Landry, K Josh Brown, OT Stephon Heyer Departures: RB LaDainian Tomlinson, WR Plaxico Burress, S Jim Leonhard, DE/LB Jamaal Westerman, CB Marquice Cole, S Brodney Pool Key Draft Picks: DE Quinton Coples (1), WR Stephen Hill (2), LB Demario Davis (3) Season preview: After a season marked by frustration, dissension and a giant step backward, the Jets went out and created a quarterback

controversy with the acquisition of Tebow. In reality, there should be no controversy – Mark Sanchez is the superior passer. But the first time he throws an interception in the red zone, fans and media will be calling for Tebow. And that won’t be a good thing. In the draft, the Jets made major upgrades on defense by taking Coples and S Josh Bush while Davis and S Antonio Allen add speed. Still, this team hinges on Sanchez. If he steps up, the Jets could be playing in February. But if Tebowmania rules, last year’s 8-8 record will look like a Super Bowl season. Mark Sanchez

2x9.32” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor”

Piedmont Health Care Center is the ONLY facility in Calhoun County to achieve a 5-Star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). Long-term care/rehab facilities vary in the quality of care and services provided to their residents. CMS reports this information based upon data measuring quality of care, staffing and health inspections. This means that our overall rating is “Much above average.” You may view the detail of our rating at www.medicare.gov for more information. Piedmont Health Care Center is a center of excellence for rehabilitation therapy. Following hospitalization, you have a choice. Come back to your facility for rehab. Choose Piedmont Health Care Center for your sub-acute healthcare needs.

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “You want Sanchez to throw it 25 times. You want to run it 30. You want to give Tim Tebow 10 plays. That’s your offense. How do you orchestrate all that?”

Wk 1 - Buffalo Sept. 9 (CBS)

Wk 10 - at Seattle Nov. 11 (CBS)

Wk 2 - at Pittsburgh Sept. 16 (CBS)

Wk 11 - at St. Louis Nov. 18 (CBS)

Wk 3 - at Miami Sept. 23 (CBS)

Wk 12 - New England Nov. 22 (NBC) (Thurs.)

Wk 4 - San Francisco Sept. 30 (Fox)

Wk 13 - Arizona Dec. 2 (Fox)

Wk 5 - Houston Oct. 8 (ESPN) (Mon.)

Wk 14 - at Jacksonville Dec. 9 (CBS)

Wk 6 - Indianapolis Oct. 14 (CBS)

Wk 15 - at Tennessee Dec. 17 (ESPN) (Mon.)

Wk 7 - at New England Oct. 21 (CBS)

Wk 16 - San Diego Dec. 23 (NBC)

Wk 8 - Miami Oct. 28 (CBS)

Wk 17 - at Buffalo Dec. 30 (CBS)

Wk 9 - Bye

*Check local listings; subject to change.

Page 2

Piedmont Health Care Center is the 5-Star Facility in Calhoun County

30 Roundtree Drive Piedmont, AL 36272 (256) 447–8258

NFL PREVIEW 2012


AFC EAST 2011 Record: 6-10, third place, AFC East Head Coach: Joe Philbin, first season Additions: QB David Garrard, WR Chad Ochocinco, CB Richard Marshall, G Artis Hicks, LB Jamaal Westerman, LB Gary Guyton, S Tyrell Johnson, WR Legedu Naanee Departures: WR Brandon Marshall, DT Kendall Langford, S Yeremiah Bell Key Draft Picks: QB Ryan Tannehill (1), OT Jonathan Martin (2), DE Olivier Vernon (3), TE Michael Egnew (3), RB Lamar Miller (4) Season preview: The Dolphins are a project, starting with top pick Tannehill. He’s raw, has poor pocket awareness and will have few Wk 1 - at Houston Sept. 9 (CBS) Wk 2 - Oakland Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - N.Y. Jets Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - at Arizona Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - at Cincinnati Oct. 7 (CBS) Wk 6 - St. Louis Oct. 14 (Fox) Wk 7 - Bye Wk 8 - at N.Y. Jets Oct. 28 (CBS) Wk 9 - at Indianapolis Nov. 4 (CBS)

weapons at his disposal. That’s why the quarterback position will come down to either Garrard or incumbent Matt Moore. The Fish dealt away their best wideout, Brandon Marshall, leaving their receiver corps with Ochocinco and a group of no-names. And Reggie Bush is a decent running back, but he’s injury-prone and unlikely to approach his 1,086 yards from 2011. On defense, the team lost two key members – Langford and Bell – and gained little in the way of significant contributors. Look for it to be a long season in South Beach, where the home team will struggle to match its 6-10 record of 2011.

Matt Moore

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “You’re 6-10. You’re in a division where you’re basically the last-place team. And now you’re talking about a quarterback competition. In my opinion, you start the young guy.”

Wk 10 - Tennessee Nov. 11 (CBS) Wk 11 - at Buffalo Nov. 15 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 12 - Seattle Nov. 25 (Fox) Wk 13 - New England Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - at San Francisco Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - Jacksonville Dec. 16 (CBS) Wk 16 - Buffalo Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - at New England Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

2011 Record: 6-10, last place, AFC East Head Coach: Chan Gailey, third season Additions: DE Mario Williams, DE Mark Anderson, QB Vince Young Departures: CB Drayton Florence, WR Roscoe Parrish, OT Demetress Bell Key Draft Picks: CB Stephon Gilmore (1), OT Cordy Glenn (2), WR T.J. Graham (3), LB Nigel Bradham (4), CB Ron Brooks (4) Season preview: After finishing 6-10 last year, the Bills went out and turned their most glaring weakness into a strength, adding All-Pro Williams and Anderson Wk 1 - at N.Y. Jets Sept. 9 (CBS) Wk 2 - Kansas City Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - at Cleveland Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - New England Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - at San Francisco Oct. 7 (CBS) Wk 6 - at Arizona Oct. 14 (CBS) Wk 7 - Tennessee Oct. 21 (CBS) Wk 8 - Bye Wk 9 - at Houston Nov. 4 (CBS)

to shore up a nearly nonexistent pass rush. Drafting Gilmore will certainly help at cornerback, but the secondary and linebacker corps remain the team’s biggest question marks. Graham is raw, but talented and could be the deep threat this team sorely needs. QB Ryan Fitzpatrick has many weapons, including RB Fred Jackson and WR Stevie Johnson, at his disposal, and with an easy schedule, could see the playoffs. But if the defense, which gave up 434 points in 2011, doesn’t improve substantially, another losing season could be in its future.

Ryan Fitzpatrick

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “If they get better defensively … they’ve got a chance to become a wild-card team. Look at their schedule.”

Wk 10 - at New England Nov. 11 (CBS) Wk 11 - Miami Nov. 15 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 12 - at Indianapolis Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - Jacksonville Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - St. Louis Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - Seattle Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - at Miami Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - N.Y. Jets Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

Xtreme Auto Spa M ONDAY - S ATURDAY 8 AM - 8 PM SUNDAY 9AM - 7PM Located in front4x5” of ad Lenlock Walmart “2012 NFL Sponsor” receive Students & Military a discount with ID

Need a fundraiser? Call (256) 453-1112

GAMECOCK AUTO SPA COMING SOON

2© 2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

Page 3


2012 NFL PREVIEW 2011 Record: 12-4, first place, AFC North; 1-1 in postseason, lost to Patriots in AFC Championship Head Coach: John Harbaugh, fifth season Additions: DT Ryan McBean, QB Curtis Painter, WR Jacoby Jones, G Bobbie Williams, G/C Tony Wragge, CB Corey Graham, RB Bernard Pierce Departures: G Ben Grubbs, DT Brandon McKinney, DT Cory Redding, S Tom Zbikowski, S Haruki Nakamura, LB Jarret Johnson, CB Domonique Foxworth, CB Chris Carr, RB Ricky Williams, WR Lee Evans Key Draft Picks: DE Courtney Upshaw (2), G Kelechi Osemele (2), RB Bernard Pierce (3), G Gino Gradkowski (4), S Christian Thompson (4) Joe Flacco

Season preview: The Ravens return most of their starters, save for a few Wk 1 - Cincinnati Sept. 10 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 2 - at Philadelphia Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - New England Sept. 23 (NBC) Wk 4 - Cleveland Sept. 27 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 5 - at Kansas City Oct. 7 (CBS) Wk 6 - Dallas Oct. 14 (Fox) Wk 7 - at Houston Oct. 21 (CBS) Wk 8 - Bye Wk 9 - at Cleveland Nov. 4 (CBS)

2011 Record: 12-4, second place, AFC North; 0-1 in postseason, lost to Broncos in wildcard game Head Coach: Mike Tomlin, sixth season Additions: TE Leonard Pope, LB Brandon Johnson Departures: WR Hines Ward, LB James Farrior, DE Aaron Smith, WR Arnaz Battle, G Chris Kemoeatu, CB Bryant McFadden, CB William Gay, OT Jamon Meredith, DT Chris Hoke, QB Dennis Dixon, RB Mewelde Moore, OT Max Starks Key Draft Picks: G David DeCastro (1), OT Mike Adams (2), LB Sean Spence (3), DT Alameda Ta’amu (4)

Ben Roethlisberger

Wk 1 - at Denver Sept. 9 (NBC) Wk 2 - N.Y. Jets Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - at Oakland Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - Bye Wk 5 - Philadelphia Oct. 7 (Fox) Wk 6 - at Tennessee Oct. 11 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 7 - at Cincinnati Oct. 21 (NBC) Wk 8 - Washington Oct. 28 (Fox) Wk 9 - at N.Y. Giants Nov. 4 (CBS)

Page 4

key players. While the passing game led by Joe Flacco and the running game led by Ray Rice are solid, the offensive line has holes, starting with the one left by the departed Grubbs. His replacement likely will come from an unproven field including Jah Reid, Williams and Osmele. Left tackle could also be an issue with Bryant McKinnie struggling with his weight and penalties. On defense, the biggest problem is age. LBs Reggie Lewis and Ed Reed are 37 and 34, so a decline in performance could come swiftly. And LB Terrell Suggs will likely miss the season with a torn Achilles. Considering this team’s advancing age and tough schedule, 10 wins may be a stretch. Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “Can that defense hold up and make another run?” Wk 10 - Oakland Nov. 11 (CBS) Wk 11 - at Pittsburgh Nov. 18 (NBC) Wk 12 - at San Diego Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - Pittsburgh Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - at Washington Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - Denver Dec. 16 (CBS) Wk 16 - N.Y. Giants Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - at Cincinnati Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

Season preview: The Steelers addressed their aging offensive line and drafted DeCastro and Adams in the first two rounds. That should help QB Ben Roethlisberger, who was sacked 40 times in 2011, stay on the field. The team also plugged holes on defense with Spence and Ta’amu, and on special teams with fifthrounder Chris Rainey. But with Todd Haley’s new offensive scheme, the team will need to find a reliable runner (Isaac Redman?) in the wake of Rashard Mendenhall’s ACL injury. Still, an improved defense and a world-class passing game mean the Steelers should expect a playoff berth in 2012. Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “Will Ben buy into the fact that he has to stay healthy? … Can Ben, in his own mind, get rid of the football? Because he’s taking way too many hits.” Wk 10 - Kansas City Nov. 12 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 11 - Baltimore Nov. 18 (NBC) Wk 12 - at Cleveland Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - at Baltimore Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - San Diego Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - at Dallas Dec. 16 (CBS) Wk 16 - Cincinnati Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - Cleveland Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

2x9.32” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor”

ELECT

KEN

ROLLINS Place #2 Oxford City Council Paid Political Advertisement by Ken Rollins 3121 Apple Valley Lane Oxford, AL 36203

NFL PREVIEW 2012


AFC NORTH 2011 Record: 9-7, third place, AFC North; 0-1 in postseason, lost to Texans in wildcard game Head Coach: Marvin Lewis, 10th season Additions: RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, RB Aaron Brown, CB Terence Newman, DT Jamaal Anderson, CB Jason Allen, OT Reggie Stephens, G Travelle Wharton, DE Derrick Harvey, DT Vaughn Meatoga, G Matt Murphy, G Chris Riley Departures: RB Cedric Benson, WR Jerome Simpson, WR Andre Caldwell, G Bobbie Williams, G Nate Livings, DE/DT Jonathan Fanene, DE Frostee Rucker, LB Keith Rivers, LB Brandon Johnson Key Draft Picks: CB Dre Kirkpatrick (1), G Kevin Zeitler (1), DT Devin Still (2), WR Mohamed Sanu (3), DT Brandon Thompson Andy (3), TE Orson Charles (4)

Season preview: QB Andy Dalton will try to provide an encore to his impressive rookie season without two key weapons, No. 1 back Benson and No. 2 receiver Simpson, but second-year man A.J. Green returns as his favorite target. GreenEllis will struggle to replace Benson, while Simpson will be replaced by committee. Wharton represents an upgrade over Livings on the solid O-line. On defense, the Bengals return a topflight pass rush and linebacker corps, but CB Leon Hall’s torn Achilles means top pick Kirkpatrick will start. Cincinnati certainly has talent, but Dalton’s late-season decline and a much tougher schedule in 2012 could make a 9-7 record a tall order. Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “How do they deal with success?”

Dalton

Wk 1 - at Baltimore Sept. 10 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 2 - Cleveland Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - at Washington Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - at Jacksonville Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - Miami Oct. 7 (CBS) Wk 6 - at Cleveland Oct. 14 (CBS) Wk 7 - Pittsburgh Oct. 21 (NBC) Wk 8 - Bye Wk 9 - Denver Nov. 4 (CBS)

Wk 10 - N.Y. Giants Nov. 11 (Fox) Wk 11 - at Kansas City Nov. 18 (CBS) Wk 12 - Oakland Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - at San Diego Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - Dallas Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - at Philadelphia Dec. 13 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 16 - at Pittsburgh Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - Baltimore Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

2011 Record: 4-12, last place, AFC North

with running back. Richardson will become the workhorse on this offense – in fact, he will probably BE the offense – mainly because it has little else. The team drafted a 28-year-old quarterback (Weeden) to hopefully supplant a weak-armed incumbent (Colt McCoy), who will be throwing to a receiver corps with no true No. 1, and be protected by an offensive line with holes. No issues there. On defense, things are slightly better. The pass defense, in fact, ranked second in the league last year, but the run defense ranked 30th and the pass rush produced only 24 sacks. And it doesn’t figure to improve this year. Look for this mistake on the lake to continue.

Head Coach: Pat Shurmur, second season Additions: DE Frostee Rucker, DE Juqua Thomas-Parker Departures: RB Peyton Hillis, OT Tony Pashos, G Eric Steinbach, DE Jayme Mitchell, S Mike Adams Key Draft Picks: RB Trent Richardson (1), QB Brandon Weeden (1), OT Mitchell Schwartz (2), DT John Hughes (3), WR Travis Benjamin (4), LB James-Michael Johnson (4) Season preview: What do you get for the team that needs everything? If you’re the Cleveland Browns, it starts Wk 1 - Philadelphia Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - at Cincinnati Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - Buffalo Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - at Baltimore Sept. 27 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 5 - at N.Y. Giants Oct. 7 (CBS) Wk 6 - Cincinnati Oct. 14 (CBS) Wk 7 - at Indianapolis Oct. 21 (CBS) Wk 8 - San Diego Oct. 28 (CBS) Wk 9 - Baltimore Nov. 4 (CBS)

Colt McCoy

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “They’ve got to be more competitive in their division; they were 0-6 (in 2011).” Wk 10 - Bye Wk 11 - at Dallas Nov. 18 (CBS) Wk 12 - Pittsburgh Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - at Oakland Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - Kansas City Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - Washington Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - at Denver Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - at Pittsburgh Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

“Service & repairs on all bike brands” 1229 Noble Street, 4x5” ad Anniston, AL

“2012 NFL Sponsor”

wigswheels.com 256-237-9447 • M-F 10-6 • SAT 11-5

2© 2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

Page 5


2012 NFL PREVIEW 2011 Record: 10-6, first place, AFC South Head Coach: Gary Kubiak, seventh season Additions: QB John Beck, RB Justin Forsett, LB Bradie James, CB Alan Ball, P Donnie Jones Departures: DE Mario Williams, OT Eric Winston, CB Jason Allen, TE Joel Dreessen, RB Lawrence Vickers, G Mike Brisiel, LB DeMeco Ryans, QB Matt Leinart, WR Jacoby Jones, G Kasey Studdard, K Neil Rackers Key Draft Picks: DE Whitney Mercilus (1), WR Devier Posey (3), G Brandon Brooks (3), C Ben Jones (4), WR Keshawn Martin Season preview: The Texans managed to win the AFC South

Matt Schaub

Wk 1 - Miami Sept. 9 (CBS) Wk 2 - at Jacksonville Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - at Denver Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - Tennessee Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - at N.Y. Jets Oct. 8 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 6 - Green Bay Oct. 14 (NBC) Wk 7 - Baltimore Oct. 21 (CBS) Wk 8 - Bye Wk 9 - Buffalo Nov. 4 (CBS)

despite injuries to key players, including QB Matt Schaub, WR Andre Johnson and DE Williams. Now, with a return to health (but still no Williams, who’s now in Buffalo) and no real competition in the division, the sky’s the limit. Schaub is one of the game’s top signal callers and the tandem of RBs Arian Foster and Ben Tate ranks with the best in the league, though the receiver corps after Johnson and TE Owen Daniels is thin. The offensive line remains solid despite losing Winston and Brisiel. On defense, the front seven is top-flight but the secondary is shaky. Still, this is a team built to win and if health holds up in Houston, there will be no problem making a Super Bowl run.

Come see why some many people from coast to coast who visit, praise Effina’s as “The best they have ever had.”

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “If their main three guys can stay healthy, it’ll be interesting when they get to the playoffs, can they win some games?” Wk 10 - at Chicago Nov. 11 (NBC) Wk 11 - Jacksonville Nov. 18 (CBS) Wk 12 - at Detroit Nov. 22 (CBS) (Thurs.) Wk 13 - at Tennessee Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - at New England Dec. 10 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 15 - Indianapolis Dec. 16 (CBS) Wk 16 - Minnesota Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - at Indianapolis Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

The freshest, most authentic Italian dishes in North East Alabama.

2x9.32” ad Professional people serving professional folks around “2012 NFL Sponsor” Calhoun and surrounding counties.

2011 Record: 9-7, second place, AFC South Head Coach: Mike Munchak, second season Additions: LB Kamerion Wimbley, G Steve Hutchinson, DT Leger Douzable, RB Collin Mooney Departures: CB Cortland Finnegan, DE Jason Jones, SS Chris Hope, TE Daniel Graham, G Jake Scott, DE William Hayes Key Draft Picks: WR Kendall Wright (1), LB Zach Brown (2), DT Mike Martin (3), CB Coty Sensabaugh (4) Season preview: The Titans come into the season with optimism borne by a wellconditioned RB Chris Johnson and the encouraging play of their two starting quarterbacks from last year, Matt Wk 1 - New England Sept. 9 (CBS) Wk 2 - at San Diego Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - Detroit Sept. 23 (Fox) Wk 4 - at Houston Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - at Minnesota Oct. 7 (CBS) Wk 6 - Pittsburgh Oct. 11 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 7 - at Buffalo Oct. 21 (CBS) Wk 8 - Indianapolis Oct. 28 (CBS) Wk 9 - Chicago Nov. 4 (Fox)

Page 6

Hasselbeck and Jake Locker. Whoever starts will have talented targets to throw to in Nate Washington, Kenny Britt (whose ongoing knee woes may push back his 2012 debut), top pick Wright and TE Jared Cook. On defense, the Titans signed Wimbley to bolster a pass rush that registered only 28 sacks last year. That may prove to be key, as Tennessee lost one of its top cornerbacks in Finnegan. The Titans have a very solid team, but also a difficult early season schedule. Another nine-win season seems likely.

Beautifully executed catering at any venue in the area. Exciting new dishes weekly.

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “(Chris Johnson) is the key. … Every time he got the ball (last year), he thought that he had to run for 25 yards. Just hit the hole. Sometimes you’re only going to run for three.” Chris Johnson

Wk 10 - at Miami Nov. 11 (CBS) Wk 11 - Bye Wk 12 - at Jacksonville Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - Houston Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - at Indianapolis Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - N.Y. Jets Dec. 17 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 16 - at Green Bay Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - Jacksonville Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

256.782.0008

501 Pelham Road, N.

Jacksonville, AL 36265

NFL PREVIEW 2012


AFC SOUTH 2011 Record: 5-11, third place, AFC South Head Coach: Mike Mularkey, first season Additions: QB Chad Henne, CB Aaron Ross, WR Laurent Robinson, WR Lee Evans Departures: DE Matt Roth, WR Kassim Osgood, DE Aaron Kampman, DT Leger Douzable, CB Drew Coleman Key Draft Picks: WR Justin Blackmon (1), DE Andre Branch (2), P Bryan Anger (3) Season preview: A 5-11 record last year sent the Jaguars out to address several needs, most glaring Wk 1 - at Minnesota Sept. 9 (CBS) Wk 2 - Houston Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - at Indianapolis Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - Cincinnati Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - Chicago Oct. 7 (Fox) Wk 6 - Bye Wk 7 - at Oakland Oct. 21 (CBS) Wk 8 - at Green Bay Oct. 28 (CBS) Wk 9 - Detroit Nov. 4 (Fox)

among them being the receiver corps, which was among the league’s worst. Toward that end, the team took the best receiver in the draft in Blackmon and signed Robinson away from Dallas, hoping that will give second-year QB Blaine Gabbert a pair of legitimate targets. Whether that plays out is a major question. Branch answers a need at defensive end, while Anger has the makings of a very solid NFL punter. The team has one of the best linebacker units in the league and Maurice Jones-Drew is an elite runner. The Jags could surprise a few people in 2012, depending on Gabbert’s play, so an 8-8 record isn’t an unrealistic expectation. Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “(The key is) Blaine Gabbert. They got some weapons for the guy. Can he play quarterback?”

Maurice Jones-Drew

Wk 10 - Indianapolis Nov. 8 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 11 - at Houston Nov. 18 (CBS) Wk 12 - Tennessee Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - at Buffalo Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - N.Y. Jets Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - at Miami Dec. 16 (CBS) Wk 16 - New England Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - at Tennessee Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

2© 2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

2011 Record: 2-14, last place, AFC South

probably the biggest talent drain in recent memory, with Manning, Addai, Saturday, Garcon and Clark heading a long list of veteran defections. Of course, they also drafted the best quarterback prospect since Manning in Luck, who will start immediately. He’ll have a familiar target to throw to in fellow Stanford alumnus Fleener and a veteran presence in re-signed Reggie Wayne. The running game was among the league’s worst with Addai and will likely still will be, with Donald Brown, Delone Carter and rookie Vick Ballard the likely options. On defense, Pagano employs the 3-4 scheme he used in Baltimore, but the talent level is still low. With a plan now in place, the Colts should improve by several games.

Head Coach: Chuck Pagano, first season Additions: DE Cory Redding, DT Brandon McKinney, S Tom Zbikowski, QB Drew Stanton, RB Mewelde Moore, WR Donnie Avery, C Samson Satele Departures: QB Peyton Manning, QB Dan Orlovsky, RB Joseph Addai, WR Pierre Garcon, TE Dallas Clark, G Ryan Diem, C Jeff Saturday, C/G Mike Pollak, DE Tyler Brayton, DE Jamaal Anderson, DT Eric Foster Key Draft Picks: QB Andrew Luck (1), TE Coby Fleener (2), TE Dwayne Allen (3), WR Ty Hilton (3) Season preview: One word – rebuilding. The Colts experienced Wk 1 - at Chicago Sept. 9 (CBS) Wk 2 - Minnesota Sept. 16 (Fox) Wk 3 - Jacksonville Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - Bye Wk 5 - Green Bay Oct. 7 (Fox) Wk 6 - at N.Y. Jets Oct. 14 (CBS) Wk 7 - Cleveland Oct. 21 (CBS) Wk 8 - at Tennessee Oct. 28 (CBS) Wk 9 - Miami Nov. 4 (CBS)

Donald Brown

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “It’s the mental part of it. When you get beat up, how do you deal with all of that? (Luck) will be able to deal with it. He’s mentally that way.” Wk 10 - at Jacksonville Nov. 8 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 11 - at New England Nov. 18 (CBS) Wk 12 - Buffalo Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - at Detroit Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - Tennessee Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - at Houston Dec. 16 (CBS) Wk 16 - at Kansas City Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - Houston Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

4x5” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor”

Page 7


2012 NFL PREVIEW 2011 Record: 8-8, first place, AFC West; 1-1 in postseason, lost to Patriots in divisional playoff

Season preview: The Broncos went 8-8 last year and advanced to the second round mainly because of a ferocious defense and a running game that was the best in the league. Now Manning replaces Tebow at quarterback, so look for the 31st-ranked passing game to get better in a hurry, while the beastly Wolfe should make an immediate impact on the defensive line. Osweiler will learn the ropes under one of the game’s greats. Adams brings a veteran presence to an inexperienced secondary, but how much he helps remains to be seen. The Broncos have perhaps the NFL’s toughest schedule, but with Manning in tow, an 11-5 record and AFC West title is possible.

Head Coach: John Fox, first season Additions: QB Peyton Manning, CB Tracy Porter, S Mike Adams, TE Joel Dreessen, TE Jacob Tamme, WR Brandon Stokley, QB Caleb Hanie, WR Photo Andre Caldwell by Eric Bakke

Departures: QB Tim Tebow, QB Brady Quinn, RB Spencer Larsen, WR Eddie Royal, DE Derrick Harvey, DT Brodrick Bunkley, DT Marcus Thomas

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “Peyton Manning is the guy. He’s going to protect you; he’s going to eat up the clock for you; he’s going to control the tempo of the game.”

Key Draft Picks: DT Derek Wolfe (2), QB Brock Osweiler (2), RB Ronnie Hillman (3), CB Omar Bolden (4), C Philip Peyton Blake (4) Manning Wk 1 - Pittsburgh Sept. 9 (NBC) Wk 2 - at Atlanta Sept. 17 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 3 - Houston Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - Oakland Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - at New England Oct. 7 (CBS) Wk 6 - at San Diego Oct. 15 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 7 - Bye Wk 8 - New Orleans Oct. 28 (NBC) Wk 9 - at Cincinnati Nov. 4 (CBS)

2011 Record: 8-8, second place, AFC West Head Coach: Norv Turner, sixth season Additions: QB Charlie Whitehurst, RB Le’Ron McClain, LB Jarret Johnson, WR Robert Meachem, WR Eddie Royal, S Atari Bigby Departures: WR Vincent Jackson, G Kris Dielman, QB Billy Volek, RB Mike Tolbert, WR Patrick Crayton, OT Marcus McNeill Key Draft Picks: DE Melvin Ingram (1), DT Kendall Reyes (2), S Brandon Taylor (3), TE Ladarius Green (4) Season preview: Phil Rivers had what was considered an off year last year despite throwing for 4,600 yards. Wk 1 - at Oakland Sept. 10 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 2 - Tennessee Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - Atlanta Sept. 23 (Fox) Wk 4 - at Kansas City Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - at New Orleans Oct. 7 (NBC) Wk 6 - Denver Oct. 15 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 7 - Bye Wk 8 - at Cleveland Oct. 28 (CBS) Wk 9 - Kansas City Nov. 1 (NFLN) (Thurs.)

Page 8

Wk 10 - at Carolina Nov. 11 (CBS) Wk 11 - San Diego Nov. 18 (CBS) Wk 12 - at Kansas City Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - Tampa Bay Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - at Oakland Dec. 6 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 15 - at Baltimore Dec. 16 (CBS) Wk 16 - Cleveland Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - Kansas City Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

FOOD OUTLET www.shopfoodoutlet.com

Everything you need for your pregame meal or tailgate! WE ACCEPT AND ORIGINAL COST PLUS 10% FOOD STAMPS WELCOMED!

2x9.32” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor”

But he was also beaten up and threw a careerhigh 20 interceptions, thanks to a right side of the line that didn’t offer much protection (and hasn’t been improved this year). Jackson is gone, so the new No. 1 receiver is Malcolm Floyd, complemented by Meachem. Antonio Gates and Ryan Mathews will carry the rushing load, assuming they can stay healthy. On defense, the pass rush produced only 32 sacks last year, so the Chargers drafted Ingram and Reyes at No. 1 and 2. The run defense also was mediocre, but Johnson’s acquisition should help. A return to health by Rivers and Gates and defensive improvement could make the Chargers a factor again. Phil Rivers

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “Defensively, how far have they come? That’s going to be the key.”

Wk 10 - at Tampa Bay Nov. 11 (CBS) Wk 11 - at Denver Nov. 18 (CBS) Wk 12 - Baltimore Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - Cincinnati Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - at Pittsburgh Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - Carolina Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - at N.Y. Jets Dec. 23 (NBC) Wk 17 - Oakland Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

JACKSONVILLE

ANNISTON

ALEXANDRIA

ANNISTON

618 PELHAM RD SOUTH

HIGHWAY 431

HIGHWAY 202

NORTH NOBLE

BYNUM

HIGHWAY 202

PELL CITY

COGSWELL AVENUE

NFL PREVIEW 2012


AFC WEST 2011 Record: 8-8, third place, AFC West Head Coach: Dennis Allen, first season Additions: QB Matt Leinart, G Ed Wang, DE Dave Tollefson, LB Philip Wheeler, CB Patrick Lee, CB Shawntae Spencer, RB Mike Goodson Departures: OT Bruce Campbell, QB Jason Campbell, RB Michael Bush, WR Chaz Schilens, TE Kevin Boss, OT Stephon Heyer, C Samson Satele, DE/ LB Kamerion Wimbley, DE Trevor Scott, DE Jarvis Moss, DE Quentin Groves, DT John Henderson, ILB Darryl Blackstock, CB Stanford Routt, CB Chris Johnson, CB Lito Sheppard Key Draft Picks: G Tony Bergstrom (3), LB Miles Burris (4) Wk 1 - San Diego Sept. 10 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 2 - at Miami Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - Pittsburgh Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - at Denver Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - Bye Wk 6 - at Atlanta Oct. 14 (CBS) Wk 7 - Jacksonville Oct. 21 (CBS) Wk 8 - at Kansas City Oct. 28 (CBS) Wk 9 - Tampa Bay Nov. 4 (Fox)

Season preview: The offseason saw the 8-8 Raiders do a major overhaul, starting with their coaching staff and sweeping through the defense, which was among the league’s worst in 2011. But just how much Tollefson, Wheeler, Lee and Spencer will help a unit that ranked 27th remains to be seen. The team had almost no picks in the first few rounds, but new GM Reggie McKenzie appears to have gotten value with Bergstrom and Burris. The offense, led by the at-times erratic Palmer, is among the game’s best, especially with elite-level runner Darren McFadden. If this team’s defense can rise from the level of atrocious to average, an 11-12 win season isn’t out of the question. Darren McFadden

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “Defensively, this team struggles. … And they can’t stop the run. You’ve got to fix that.”

Wk 10 - at Baltimore Nov. 11 (CBS) Wk 11 - New Orleans Nov. 18 (Fox) Wk 12 - at Cincinnati Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - Cleveland Dec. 2 (CBS) Wk 14 - Denver Dec. 6 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 15 - Kansas City Dec. 16 (CBS) Wk 16 - at Carolina Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - at San Diego Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

2011 Record: 7-9, last place, AFC West Head Coach: Romeo Crennel, first season Additions: TE Kevin Boss, CB Stanford Routt, RB Peyton Hillis, OT Eric Winston, QB Brady Quinn, S Abram Elam Departures: CB Brandon Carr, OT Barry Richardson, S Sabby Piscitelli, QB Kyle Orton, RB Jackie Battle, FB Le’Ron McClain, TE Leonard Pope Key Draft Picks: NT Dontari Poe (1), G Jeff Allen (2), OT Donald Stephenson (3), WR Devon Wylie (4) Season preview: The Chiefs are better than their 2011 7-9 record indicates, a function Dwayne Bowe

Wk 1 - Atlanta Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - at Buffalo Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - at New Orleans Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - San Diego Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - Baltimore Oct. 7 (CBS) Wk 6 - at Tampa Bay Oct. 14 (CBS) Wk 7 - Bye Wk 8 - Oakland Oct. 28 (CBS) Wk 9 - at San Diego Nov. 1 (NFLN) (Thurs.)

more of injuries to key players than a lack of talent. On offense, RB Jamaal Charles and TE Tony Moeaki are back from torn ACLs, and QB Matt Cassel should be recovered from hand woes. That alone should help revive an attack that ranked near the bottom of the NFL in most major categories. Cassel will also have a stellar offensive line protecting him as he throws to solid targets in Dwayne Bowe and Jonathan Baldwin. And one of the league’s top defenses gets better with the return of S Eric Berry from a torn ACL and the addition of monster NT Poe. With health, the Chiefs could make the AFC West a three-team race and even win it with an 11-5 record. Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “Can Matt Cassel have a consistent season? If he can, then they have a chance.” Wk 10 - at Pittsburgh Nov. 12 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 11 - Cincinnati Nov. 18 (CBS) Wk 12 - Denver Nov. 25 (CBS) Wk 13 - Carolina Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - at Cleveland Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - at Oakland Dec. 16 (CBS) Wk 16 - Indianapolis Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - at Denver Dec. 30 (CBS) *Check local listings; subject to change.

Game Day Apparel & Novelties for JSU Gamecocks & Jacksonville High School

4x5” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor”

Jacksonville High School

Go Gamec ocks! Go Eagles !

302 Mountain Street, Jacksonville, AL 36265 256-435-7407

2© 2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

Page 9


2012 NFL PREVIEW WEEK 1

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Dallas at N.Y. Giants (NBC, 7:30 p.m.)

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Philadelphia at Cleveland (Fox, 12 p.m.) Washington at New Orleans (Fox, 12 p.m.) Indianapolis at Chicago (CBS, 12 p.m.) Miami at Houston (CBS, 12 p.m.) New England at Tennessee (CBS, 12 p.m.) Buffalo at N.Y. Jets (CBS, 12 p.m.) St. Louis at Detroit (Fox, 12 p.m.) Atlanta at Kansas City (Fox, 12 p.m.) Jacksonville at Minnesota (CBS, 12 p.m.) Carolina at Tampa Bay (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) Seattle at Arizona (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) San Francisco at Green Bay (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) Pittsburgh at Denver (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Kansas City at New Orleans (CBS, 12 p.m.) N.Y. Jets at Miami (CBS, 12 p.m.) Cincinnati at Washington (CBS, 12 p.m.) Buffalo at Cleveland (CBS, 12 p.m.) Detroit at Tennessee (Fox, 12 p.m.) Jacksonville at Indianapolis (CBS, 12 p.m.) Tampa Bay at Dallas (Fox, 12 p.m.) San Francisco at Minnesota (Fox, 12 p.m.) St. Louis at Chicago (Fox, 12 p.m.) Atlanta at San Diego (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Philadelphia at Arizona (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Pittsburgh at Oakland (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Houston at Denver (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) New England at Baltimore (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

Green Bay at Seattle (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

WEEK 4

Cincinnati at Baltimore (ESPN, 6 p.m.) San Diego at Oakland (ESPN, 9:15 p.m.)

Cleveland at Baltimore (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

WEEK 2

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Chicago at Green Bay (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Houston at Jacksonville (CBS, 12 p.m.) New Orleans at Carolina (Fox, 12 p.m.) Minnesota at Indianapolis (Fox, 12 p.m.) Tampa Bay at N.Y. Giants (Fox, 12 p.m.) Arizona at New England (Fox, 12 p.m.) Baltimore at Philadelphia (CBS, 12 p.m.) Oakland at Miami (CBS, 12 p.m.) Kansas City at Buffalo (CBS, 12 p.m.) Cleveland at Cincinnati (CBS, 12 p.m.) Dallas at Seattle (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Washington at St. Louis (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) N.Y. Jets at Pittsburgh (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Tennessee at San Diego (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Detroit at San Francisco (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Denver at Atlanta (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

WEEK 3

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 N.Y. Giants at Carolina (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

Green Bay at Indianapolis (Fox, 12 p.m.) Atlanta at Washington (Fox, 12 p.m.) Tennessee at Minnesota (CBS, 12 p.m.) Philadelphia at Pittsburgh (Fox, 12 p.m.) Baltimore at Kansas City (CBS, 12 p.m.) Miami at Cincinnati (CBS, 12 p.m.) Cleveland at N.Y. Giants (CBS, 12 p.m.) Chicago at Jacksonville (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Seattle at Carolina (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Denver at New England (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Buffalo at San Francisco (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) San Diego at New Orleans (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, OCTOBER 8

New England at Buffalo (CBS, 12 p.m.) San Diego at Kansas City (CBS, 12 p.m.) Tennessee at Houston (CBS, 12 p.m.) Minnesota at Detroit (Fox, 12 p.m.) Carolina at Atlanta (Fox, 12 p.m.) Seattle at St. Louis (Fox, 12 p.m.) San Francisco at N.Y. Jets (Fox, 12 p.m.) Cincinnati at Jacksonville (CBS, 3:05 p.m.) Oakland at Denver (CBS, 3:05 p.m.) Miami at Arizona (CBS, 3:05 p.m.) Washington at Tampa Bay (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) New Orleans at Green Bay (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) N.Y. Giants at Philadelphia (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, OCTOBER 1

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4

Arizona at St. Louis (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

WEEK 8

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14

Indianapolis at N.Y. Jets (CBS, 12 p.m.) Detroit at Philadelphia (Fox, 12 p.m.) St. Louis at Miami (Fox, 12 p.m.) Oakland at Atlanta (CBS, 12 p.m.) Kansas City at Tampa Bay (CBS, 12 p.m.) Dallas at Baltimore (Fox, 12 p.m.) Cincinnati at Cleveland (CBS, 12 p.m.) New England at Seattle (CBS, 3:05 p.m.) Buffalo at Arizona (CBS, 3:05 p.m.) N.Y. Giants at San Francisco (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) Minnesota at Washington (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) Green Bay at Houston (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, OCTOBER 15

Denver at San Diego (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18

Eli Manning

Detroit at Chicago (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

WEEK 6

WEEK 7

Chicago at Dallas (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

MONDAY, OCTOBER 22

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25

Pittsburgh at Tennessee (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

New Orleans at Tampa Bay (Fox, 12 p.m.) Dallas at Carolina (Fox, 12 p.m.) Washington at N.Y. Giants (Fox, 12 p.m.) Cleveland at Indianapolis (CBS, 12 p.m.) Arizona at Minnesota (Fox, 12 p.m.) Green Bay at St. Louis (Fox, 12 p.m.) Baltimore at Houston (CBS, 12 p.m.) N.Y. Jets at New England (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Jacksonville at Oakland (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Pittsburgh at Cincinnati (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

Houston at N.Y. Jets (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

WEEK 5

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7

Seattle at San Francisco (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 21 Tennessee at Buffalo (CBS, 12 p.m.)

Tampa Bay at Minnesota (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.) Seattle at Detroit (Fox, 12 p.m.) Jacksonville at Green Bay (CBS, 12 p.m.) Indianapolis at Tennessee (CBS, 12 p.m.) Washington at Pittsburgh (Fox, 12 p.m.) San Diego at Cleveland (CBS, 12 p.m.) Atlanta at Philadelphia (Fox, 12 p.m.) Carolina at Chicago (Fox, 12 p.m.) New England at St. Louis (CBS, 12 p.m.) Miami at N.Y. Jets (CBS, 12 p.m.) Oakland at Kansas City (CBS, 3:05 p.m.) N.Y. Giants at Dallas (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) New Orleans at Denver (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, OCTOBER 29

San Francisco at Arizona (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

WEEK 9

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1

Kansas City at San Diego (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Denver at Cincinnati (CBS, 12 p.m.) Chicago at Tennessee (Fox, 12 p.m.) Arizona at Green Bay (Fox, 12 p.m.) Buffalo at Houston (CBS, 12 p.m.) Miami at Indianapolis (CBS, 12 p.m.) Baltimore at Cleveland (CBS, 12 p.m.) Detroit at Jacksonville (Fox, 12 p.m.) Carolina at Washington (Fox, 12 p.m.) Minnesota at Seattle (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Tampa Bay at Oakland (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Pittsburgh at N.Y. Giants (CBS, 3:25 p.m.)

4 x 2” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor”

407 Pelham Rd N, Jacksonville AL, (256) 435-3456

VOTED #1 IN CALHOUN COUNTY Best Wings, Chicken Fingers & Hamburgers Page 10

NFL PREVIEW 2012


WEEKLY SCHEDULE Dallas at Atlanta (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

New England at N.Y. Jets (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Philadelphia at New Orleans (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

WEEK 10

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8

Indianapolis at Jacksonville (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 11

Tennessee at Miami (CBS, 12 p.m.) Denver at Carolina (CBS, 12 p.m.) Oakland at Baltimore (CBS, 12 p.m.) N.Y. Giants at Cincinnati (Fox, 12 p.m.) San Diego at Tampa Bay (CBS, 12 p.m.) Detroit at Minnesota (Fox, 12 p.m.) Atlanta at New Orleans (Fox, 12 p.m.) Buffalo at New England (CBS, 12 p.m.) N.Y. Jets at Seattle (CBS, 3:05 p.m.) Dallas at Philadelphia (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) St. Louis at San Francisco (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) Houston at Chicago (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 12

Kansas City at Pittsburgh (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

WEEK 11

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Miami at Buffalo (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18

N.Y. Jets at St. Louis (CBS, 12 p.m.) Cincinnati at Kansas City (CBS, 12 p.m.) Green Bay at Detroit (Fox, 12 p.m.) Cleveland at Dallas (CBS, 12 p.m.) Arizona at Atlanta (Fox, 12 p.m.) Indianapolis at New England (CBS, 12 p.m.) Philadelphia at Washington (Fox, 12 p.m.) Jacksonville at Houston (CBS, 12 p.m.) Tampa Bay at Carolina (Fox, 12 p.m.) New Orleans at Oakland (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) San Diego at Denver (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Baltimore at Pittsburgh (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

Buffalo at Indianapolis (CBS, 12 p.m.) Pittsburgh at Cleveland (CBS, 12 p.m.) Atlanta at Tampa Bay (Fox, 12 p.m.) Minnesota at Chicago (Fox, 12 p.m.) Denver at Kansas City (CBS, 12 p.m.) Oakland at Cincinnati (CBS, 12 p.m.) Seattle at Miami (Fox, 12 p.m.) Tennessee at Jacksonville (CBS, 12 p.m.) Baltimore at San Diego (CBS, 3:05 p.m.) St. Louis at Arizona (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) San Francisco at New Orleans (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) Green Bay at N.Y. Giants (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 26

Carolina at Philadelphia (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

WEEK 13

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29

New Orleans at Atlanta (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2

San Francisco at St. Louis (Fox, 12 p.m.) Seattle at Chicago (Fox, 12 p.m.) Arizona at N.Y. Jets (Fox, 12 p.m.) Jacksonville at Buffalo (CBS, 12 p.m.) Indianapolis at Detroit (CBS, 12 p.m.) Carolina at Kansas City (Fox, 12 p.m.) Minnesota at Green Bay (Fox, 12 p.m.) Houston at Tennessee (CBS, 12 p.m.) New England at Miami (CBS, 12 p.m.)

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19

Chicago at San Francisco (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

WEEK 12

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22 Houston at Detroit (CBS, 11:30 a.m.) Washington at Dallas (Fox, 3:25 p.m.)

2 © 2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

Troy Polamalu

Tampa Bay at Denver (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Cincinnati at San Diego (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Cleveland at Oakland (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Pittsburgh at Baltimore (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Philadelphia at Dallas (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, DECEMBER 3

N.Y. Giants at Washington (NBC, 7:30 p.m.)

WEEK 14

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5

Denver at Oakland (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9

Philadelphia at Tampa Bay (Fox, 12 p.m.) Kansas City at Cleveland (CBS, 12 p.m.) San Diego at Pittsburgh (CBS, 12 p.m.) Dallas at Cincinnati (Fox, 12 p.m.) Tennessee at Indianapolis (CBS, 12 p.m.) St. Louis at Buffalo (Fox, 12 p.m.) Baltimore at Washington (CBS, 12 p.m.) Atlanta at Carolina (Fox, 12 p.m.) Chicago at Minnesota (Fox, 12 p.m.) N.Y. Jets at Jacksonville (CBS, 12 p.m.) Miami at San Francisco (CBS, 3:05 p.m.) New Orleans at N.Y. Giants (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) Arizona at Seattle (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) Detroit at Green Bay (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, DECEMBER 10

Houston at New England (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

WEEK 15 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13

Cincinnati at Philadelphia (NFLN, 7:20 p.m.)

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16

Green Bay at Chicago (Fox, 12 p.m.) Minnesota at St. Louis (Fox, 12 p.m.) Tampa Bay at New Orleans (Fox, 12 p.m.) Jacksonville at Miami (CBS, 12 p.m.) N.Y. Giants at Atlanta (Fox, 12 p.m.) Washington at Cleveland (Fox, 12 p.m.) Indianapolis at Houston (CBS, 12 p.m.)

Denver at Baltimore (CBS, 12 p.m.) Seattle at Buffalo (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Carolina at San Diego (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Detroit at Arizona (Fox, 3:05 p.m.) Pittsburgh at Dallas (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Kansas City at Oakland (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) San Francisco at New England (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

MONDAY, DECEMBER 17

N.Y. Jets at Tennessee (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

WEEK 16

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22

Atlanta at Detroit (ESPN, 7:30 p.m.)

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23

Minnesota at Houston (Fox, 12 p.m.) Cincinnati at Pittsburgh (CBS, 12 p.m.) New England at Jacksonville (CBS, 12 p.m.) Buffalo at Miami (CBS, 12 p.m.) New Orleans at Dallas (Fox, 12 p.m.) Tennessee at Green Bay (CBS, 12 p.m.) St. Louis at Tampa Bay (Fox, 12 p.m.) Oakland at Carolina (CBS, 12 p.m.) Indianapolis at Kansas City (CBS, 12 p.m.) Washington at Philadelphia (Fox, 12 p.m.) N.Y. Giants at Baltimore (Fox, 12 p.m.) Cleveland at Denver (CBS, 3:05 p.m.) Chicago at Arizona (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) San Francisco at Seattle (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) San Diego at N.Y. Jets (NBC, 7:20 p.m.)

WEEK 17

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30

Dallas at Washington (Fox, 12 p.m.) Philadelphia at N.Y. Giants (Fox, 12 p.m.) Tampa Bay at Atlanta (Fox, 12 p.m.) Jacksonville at Tennessee (CBS, 12 p.m.) Chicago at Detroit (Fox, 12 p.m.) Carolina at New Orleans (Fox, 12 p.m.) Green Bay at Minnesota (Fox, 12 p.m.) Cleveland at Pittsburgh (CBS, 12 p.m.) Houston at Indianapolis (CBS, 12 p.m.) Miami at New England (CBS, 12 p.m.) N.Y. Jets at Buffalo (CBS, 12 p.m.) Baltimore at Cincinnati (CBS, 12 p.m.) St. Louis at Seattle (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) Arizona at San Francisco (Fox, 3:25 p.m.) Kansas City at Denver (CBS, 3:25 p.m.) Oakland at San Diego (CBS, 3:25 p.m.)

Oxford Y For Now

Hwy 21 South Oxford (256) 832-YMCA

4 x 2” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor” Downtown Anniston

YMCA of Calhoun County (256) 238-YMCA

Page 11


2012 NFL PREVIEW 2011 Record: 9-7, first place, NFC East; 4-0 in postseason, defeated Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI Head Coach: Tom Coughlin, ninth season Additions: TE Martellus Bennett, LB Keith Rivers, DT Shaun Rogers, S Stevie Brown, CB Antwaun Molden Departures: WR Mario Manningham, CB Aaron Ross, RB Brandon Jacobs, OT Kareem McKenzie Key Draft Picks: RB David Wilson (1), WR Rueben Randle (2), CB Jayron Hosley (3), TE Adrien Robinson (4), OT Brandon Mosley (4)

Season preview: After a 9-7 record in 2011, the Giants went on an amazing run that ended with a title, proving that the team that gets hot at the right time can win it all. Eli Manning returns with elite receivers in Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz, but the running game was the league’s worst. Draftee Wilson should be an upgrade over Jacobs, but how much is questionable. Almost as problematic was the 29thranked pass defense, which gets help with Rivers, Brown, Molden and Hosley. The Giants are still very talented and playoff-worthy, but they lost some depth. If injuries mount, there could be trouble. Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “You can name a lot of things. But I think the things they really want to improve on – Coach Coughlin – is the running game. That kind of protects their defense and Eli.”

Eli Manning

Wk 1 - Dallas Sept. 5 (NBC) (Thurs.)

Wk 10 - at Cincinnati Nov. 11 (Fox)

Wk 2 - Tampa Bay Sept. 16 (Fox)

Wk 11 - Bye

Wk 3 - at Carolina Sept. 20 (NFLN) (Thurs.)

Wk 12 - Green Bay Nov. 25 (NBC)

Wk 4 - at Philadelphia Sept. 30 (NBC)

Wk 13 - at Washington Dec. 3 (ESPN) (Mon.)

Wk 5 - Cleveland Oct. 7 (CBS)

Wk 14 - New Orleans Dec. 9 (Fox)

Wk 6 - at San Francisco Oct. 14 (Fox)

Wk 15 - at Atlanta Dec. 16 (Fox)

Wk 7 - Washington Oct. 21 (Fox)

Wk 16 - at Baltimore Dec. 23 (Fox)

Wk 8 - at Dallas Oct. 28 (Fox)

Wk 17 - Philadelphia Dec. 30 (Fox)

Wk 9 - Pittsburgh Nov. 4 (CBS)

*Check local listings; subject to change.

2011 Record: 8-8, second place, NFC East Head Coach: Andy Reid, 14th season Additions: OT Demetress Bell, linebacker DeMeco Ryans, QB Trent Edwards, G Mike Gibson, OT Steve Vallos, OT Thomas Welch, LB Mychal Kendricks, DT Fletcher Cox Departures: CB Asante Samuel, C Jamaal Jackson, QB Vince Young, RB Ronnie Brown, WR Steve Smith Key Draft Picks: DT Fletcher Cox (1), LB Mychal Kendricks (2), DE Vinny Curry (3), QB Nick Foles (3), CB Brandon Boykin (4) Wk 1 - at Cleveland Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - Baltimore Sept. 16 (CBS) Wk 3 - at Arizona Sept. 23 (Fox) Wk 4 - N.Y. Giants Sept. 30 (NBC) Wk 5 - at Pittsburgh Oct. 7 (Fox) Wk 6 - Detroit Oct. 14 (Fox) Wk 7 - Bye Wk 8 - Atlanta Oct. 28 (Fox) Wk 9 - at New Orleans Nov. 5 (ESPN) (Mon.)

Page 12

Season preview: After going 8-8 and missing the playoffs last year, the Eagles addressed holes on defense with the draftings of Cox, Kendricks and Boykin and the acquisition of Ryans. It will be interesting to see if the new players can help shore up a porous run defense. On offense, QB Michael Vick has some major playmakers in RB LeSean McCoy and WR DeSean Jackson. If that group can stay healthy and on the field, this team can make a long playoff run. If not, more disappointment will be in store.

Michael Vick

2x9.32” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor”

Thank you Calhoun County and a special thanks to Piedmont.

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “It’s all on Michael Vick. If he can stay healthy and protect the football, they have an excellent chance of winning this division.”

Wk 10 - Dallas Nov. 11 (Fox) Wk 11 - at Washington Nov. 18 (Fox) Wk 12 - Carolina Nov. 26 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 13 - at Dallas Dec. 2 (NBC) Wk 14 - at Tampa Bay Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - Cincinnati Dec. 13 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 16 - Washington Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - at N.Y. Giants Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

NFL PREVIEW 2012


NFC EAST 2011 Record: 8-8, third place, NFC East

Season preview: After going 8-8 and finishing out of the playoffs last year, the Cowboys drafted what many agree could be an impact player on defense in Claiborne, who with acquisitions Carr and Pool should shore up a pass defense that ranked 23rd in 2011. The other glaring weakness, the offensive line, didn’t get as much attention, with mediocrities Livings and Bernadeau representing the best they could do. Tony Romo is among the best at quarterback, and now he gets a legitimate back-up in Orton. But problems on the O-line and the defensive front seven mean this team will struggle. Another 8-8 season may be a best-case scenario.

Head Coach: Jason Garrett, third season Additions: CB Brandon Carr, QB Kyle Orton, G Mackenzy Bernadeau, RB Lawrence Vickers, S Brodney Pool, LB Dan Connor, G Nate Livings, QB Rudy Carpenter, S Akwasi Owusu-Ansah, P Jake Rogers Departures: CB Terence Newman, WR Laurent Robinson, TE Martellus Bennett, LB Bradie James, LB Keith Brooking Key Draft Picks: CB Morris Claiborne (1), DE Tyrone Crawford (3), LB Kyle Wilbur (4), S Matt Johnson (4) Wk 1 - at N.Y. Giants Sept. 5 (NBC) (Thurs.) Wk 2 - at Seattle Sept. 16 (Fox) Wk 3 - Tampa Bay Sept. 23 (Fox) Wk 4 - Chicago Oct. 1 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 5 - Bye Wk 6 - at Baltimore Oct. 14 (Fox) Wk 7 - at Carolina Oct. 21 (Fox) Wk 8 - N.Y. Giants Oct. 28 (Fox) Wk 9 - at Atlanta Nov. 4 (NBC)

Head Coach: “They’ve got to finish games.”

Tony Romo

Wk 10 - at Philadelphia Nov. 11 (Fox) Wk 11 - Cleveland Nov. 18 (CBS) Wk 12 - Washington Nov. 22 (Fox) (Thurs.) Wk 13 - Philadelphia Dec. 2 (NBC) Wk 14 - at Cincinnati Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - Pittsburgh Dec. 16 (CBS) Wk 16 - New Orleans Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - at Washington Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

2011 Record: 5-11, last place, NFC East Head Coach: Mike Shanahan, third season Additions: WR Pierre Garcon, WR Josh Morgan, S Brandon Meriweather, CB Cedric Griffin, LB Jonathan Goff, S Madieu Williams, OT James Lee, CB Leigh Torrence, CB Tanard Jackson Departures: WR Jabar Gaffney, S Oshiomogho Atogwe, RB Mike Sellers Key Draft Picks: QB Robert Griffin III (1), G John LeRibeus (3), QB Kirk Cousins (4), LB Keenan Robinson (4) Season preview: The Redskins haven’t have a franchise quarterback since … Joe Theismann? So after a decade of mediocrity, the team Wk 1 - at New Orleans Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - at St. Louis Sept. 16 (Fox) Wk 3 - Cincinnati Sept. 23 (CBS) Wk 4 - at Tampa Bay Sept. 30 (Fox) Wk 5 - Atlanta Oct. 7 (Fox) Wk 6 - Minnesota Oct. 14 (Fox) Wk 7 - at N.Y. Giants Oct. 21 (Fox) Wk 8 - at Pittsburgh Oct. 28 (Fox) Wk 9 - Carolina Nov. 4 (Fox)

Santana Moss

paid dearly for what many believe is an NFL-ready QB in Griffin. Now the eyes of the nation’s capital are on him to see if he’s worth three future first-round picks and a second rounder – no pressure there. Through the draft, the team plugged holes in the offensive line (LeRibeus, Tom Compton, Adam Gettis), secondary (Richard Crawford, Jordan Bernstine) and at linebacker (Keenan Robinson). And through free agency, it got targets for Griffin in Garcon and Morgan – to go with returning Santana Moss. This is not yet a Super Bowl team, but if Griffin plays respectably a winning season wouldn’t be a shock. Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “They have some stability now at quarterback. … But there’s so much pressure on this guy, as good as he is, he’s still a rookie.”

Wk 10 - Bye Wk 11 - Philadelphia Nov. 18 (Fox) Wk 12 - at Dallas Nov. 22 (Fox) (Thurs.) Wk 13 - N.Y. Giants Dec. 3 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 14 - Baltimore Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - at Cleveland Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - at Philadelphia Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - Dallas Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

Thank you for voting Dr. Tony Bolton the #1 Chiropractor in Calhoun County in 2011 and 2012. At Bolton Chiropractic, we are dedicated to helping you live healthier and pain free lives.

4x5” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor”

boltonchiro.com

Call us today for an appointment at 256-835-3511

2 © 2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

We would also like to welcome Dr. Chris Law to our practice.

Page 13


2012 NFL PREVIEW 2011 Record: 15-1, first place, NFC North; 0-1 in postseason, lost to Giants in divisional playoff

Season preview: A 15-1 record followed by a shocking divisional-round exit told the Packers they needed defense, especially against the pass, in which they ranked dead-last in 2011. Toward that end, Packers GM Ted Thompson traded up to draft Perry to complement Clay Matthews at end, plus pick all defenders (Worthy, Hayward, Daniels, Mcmillian, LB Terrell Manning) in the first five rounds. On the other side of the ball, Aaron Rodgers leads a high-octane offense that ranked third overall last year, despite a lackluster running game. If he remains on his game and the defense can rise to the occasion, a Super Bowl run isn’t out of the question.

Head Coach: Mike McCarthy, seventh season Additions: C Jeff Saturday, DE Anthony Hargrove, DT Daniel Muir, DE/DT Phillip Merling Departures: C Scott Wells, OT Chad Clifton, S Nick Collins, QB Matt Flynn, RB Ryan Grant, NT Howard Green Key Draft Picks: DE Nick Perry (1), DT Jerel Worthy (2), CB Casey Hayward (2), DT Mike Daniels (4), S Jerron Mcmillian (4)

Aaron Rodgers

Wk 1 - San Francisco Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - Chicago Sept. 13 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 3 - at Seattle Sept. 24 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 4 - New Orleans Sept. 30 (Fox) Wk 5 - at Indianapolis Oct. 7 (Fox) Wk 6 - at Houston Oct. 14 (NBC) Wk 7 - at St. Louis Oct. 21 (Fox) Wk 8 - Jacksonville Oct. 28 (CBS) Wk 9 - Arizona Nov. 4 (Fox)

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “As good as Aaron Rodgers is, they have to be able to run the ball on offense.”

Wk 10 - Bye Wk 11 - at Detroit Nov. 18 (Fox) Wk 12 - at N.Y. Giants Nov. 25 (NBC) Wk 13 - Minnesota Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - Detroit Dec. 9 (NBC) Wk 15 - at Chicago Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - Tennessee Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - at Minnesota Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

JACKSON MORTGAGE COMPANY INC.

NMLS# 203892

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF REFINANCING YOUR HOME MORTGAGE?

Turn your home equity into cash. You may be eligible to take out a new mortgage with a higher principal, allowing you to turn some of your equity into cash. A new loan that is secured by your home can offer you a potentially lower rate of interest than an unsecured line of credit.

Mortgage rates are at an all time LOW!

2x9.32” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor” ACCREDITED BUSINESS

A+

Locally Owned & Operated 2011 Record: 10-6, second place, NFC North; 01 in postseason, lost to Saints in wildcard game Head Coach: Jim Schwartz, fourth season Additions: CB Jacob Lacey, DE/LB Everette Brown, S Sean Jones Departures: CB Eric Wright, QB Drew Stanton, OLB Bobby Carpenter, S Chris Harris Key Draft Picks: OT Riley Reiff (1), WR Ryan Broyles (2), CB Dwight Bentley (3), LB Ronnell Lewis (4)) Season preview: For a team that finished 10-6, the Lions came into the offseason with many problems. Their defense ranked among the league’s worst a year ago and collapsed altogether in the season’s

second half. The team addressed that with the draftings of Bentley and Lewis, and the acquisitions of Lacey and Jones. The running game was also an area of concern, but that should get better with healthy seasons from Jahvid Best, Mikel Leshoure and Kevin Smith. And the team had trouble against better competition, going 0-5 against NFC playoff teams. Still, Matt Stafford is an elite quarterback, and the team has one of the game’s best receiver corps led by Calvin Johnson. If they can shore up their weaknesses, the Lions could threaten the Packers in the NFC North.

Matthew Stafford

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “This is a team that had some success last year. Now how are they going to handle it?”

Wk 1 - St. Louis Sept. 9 (Fox)

Wk 10 - at Minnesota Nov. 11 (Fox)

Wk 2 - at San Francisco Sept. 16 (NBC)

Wk 11 - Green Bay Nov. 18 (Fox)

Wk 3 - at Tennessee Sept. 23 (Fox)

Wk 12 - Houston Nov. 22 (CBS) (Thurs.)

Wk 4 - Minnesota Sept. 30 (Fox)

Wk 13 - Indianapolis Dec. 2 (CBS)

Wk 5 - Bye

Wk 14 - at Green Bay Dec. 9 (NBC)

Wk 6 - at Philadelphia Oct. 14 (Fox)

Wk 15 - at Arizona Dec. 16 (Fox)

Wk 7 - at Chicago Oct. 22 (ESPN) (Mon.)

Wk 16 - Atlanta Dec. 22 (ESPN) (Sat.)

Wk 8 - Seattle Oct. 28 (Fox)

Wk 17 - Chicago Dec. 30 (Fox)

Wk 9 - at Jacksonville Nov. 4 (Fox)

*Check local listings; subject to change.

Page 14

FHA, VA & CONVENTIONAL FINANCING ON PURCHASE OR REFINANCE

and remember,

If you need a Home Loan...

Call My Daddy! 256-237-5177

NFL PREVIEW 2012


NFC NORTH 2011 Record: 8-8, third place, NFC North

and RB Matt Forte healthy and with the addition of elite receiver Marshall, the Bears should be back to their winning ways. The team ignored its most glaring weaknesses, an offensive line that gave up 49 sacks last year, but line coach Mike Tice has a history of making inept units capable. On defense, some key players (DE Julius Peppers, LB Brian Urlacher) are on the wrong side of 30, so it remains to be seen whether it can hold up over a long season. Still, with this team’s elite talent, it’s not inconceivable to see it playing well into January.

Head Coach: Lovie Smith, ninth season Additions: WR Brandon Marshall, QB Jason Campbell, LB Blake Costanzo, WR Eric Weems, RB Michael Bush, WR Devin Thomas, LB Geno Hayes, G Chilo Rachal, DT John McCargo Departures: DT Anthony Adams, QB Caleb Hanie, OT Frank Omiyale, DT Amobi Okoye, WR Roy Williams, RB Marion Barber Key Draft Picks: LB Shea McClellin (1), WR Alshon Jeffery (2), S Brandon Hardin (3), TE Evan Rodriguez (4) Season preview: An injury-plagued season brought a team that went 11-5 in 2010 down to 8-8 last year. But now with QB Jay Cutler Wk 1 - Indianapolis Sept. 9 (CBS) Wk 2 - at Green Bay Sept. 13 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 3 - St. Louis Sept. 23 (Fox) Wk 4 - at Dallas Oct. 1 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 5 - at Jacksonville Oct. 7 (Fox) Wk 6 - Bye Wk 7 - Detroit Oct. 22 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 8 - Carolina Oct. 28 (Fox) Wk 9 - at Tennessee Nov. 4 (Fox)

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “It boils down to this: the age of their defense. Can they hold up?”

Jay Cutler

Wk 10 - Houston Nov. 11 (NBC) Wk 11 - at San Francisco Nov. 19 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 12 - Minnesota Nov. 25 (Fox) Wk 13 - Seattle Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - at Minnesota Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - Green Bay Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - at Arizona Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - at Detroit Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

F C

2011 Record: 3-13, last place, NFC North

the drafting of Kalil and the acquisition of Schwartz. Another area of concern was the secondary, which gave up 34 TD passes in 2011. Draftees Smith and Robinson should help there, but their inexperience may become an issue. All-Pro RB Adrian Peterson is coming off a torn ACL, so it remains to be seen how much he can contribute. If recovered, he’ll undoubtedly enhance the development of second-year QB Christian Ponder. Newly acquired Simpson should help at wideout. This team will do better than the 3-13 record it posted in 2011, but with questions in the secondary, not by much.

Head Coach: Leslie Frazier, third season Additions: TE John Carlson, OT Geoff Schwartz, RB Rex Hilliard, WR Jerome Simpson CB Chris Carr Departures: K Ryan Longwell, RB Jim Kleinsasser, G Steve Hutchinson, G Anthony Herrera, DT Remi Ayodele Key Draft Picks: OT Matt Kalil (1), S Harrison Smith (1), CB Josh Robinson (3), WR Jarius Wright (4), RB Rhett Ellison (4), WR Greg Childs (4) Season preview: The Vikes addressed their most pressing need, the offensive line, with

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “I mean, 34 touchdown passes and a 68 percent completion percentage against this defense? That’s not good.”

Adrian Peterson

Wk 1 - Jacksonville Sept. 9 (CBS) Wk 2 - at Indianapolis Sept. 16 (Fox) Wk 3 - San Francisco Sept. 23 (Fox) Wk 4 - at Detroit Sept. 30 (Fox) Wk 5 - Tennessee Oct. 7 (CBS) Wk 6 - at Washington Oct. 14 (Fox) Wk 7 - Arizona Oct. 21 (Fox) Wk 8 - Tampa Bay Oct. 25 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 9 - at Seattle Nov. 4 (Fox)

Wk 10 - Detroit Nov. 11 (Fox) Wk 11 - Bye Wk 12 - at Chicago Nov. 25 (Fox) Wk 13 - at Green Bay Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - Chicago Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - at St. Louis Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - at Houston Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - Green Bay Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

MC U

ORT C LELLAN REDIT NION

Membership in Fort McClellan Credit Union is available for anyone who lives, works or attends school in the following counties: Calhoun, Cleburne, Etowah, Cherokee, St. Clair, Talladega, Clay, Randolph and Chambers.

4x5” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor” Apply At A Nearby Fort McClellan Credit Union Office. Anniston 1731 Noble St. (256) 237-2113

Jacksonville

Roanoke

1204 Church Ave. SE Hwy. 431 N Bypass (256) 435-5741 (334) 863-8902

Ohatchee

Centre

Indian Village (256) 892-7129

500 Cedar Bluff Rd. (256) 927-4203

Your savings federally insured by NCUA to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the US Government

2 © 2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

Page 15


2012 NFL PREVIEW 2011 Record: 13-3, first place, NFC South; 1-1 in postseason, lost to 49ers in divisional playoff Head Coach: Joe Vitt (interim), first season Additions: WR Marques Colston, LB Chris Chamberlain, LB Curtis Lofton, QB Chase Daniel, LB David Hawthorne, G Ben Grubbs, DT Remi Ayodele, K John Kasay, DT Brodrick Bunkley Departures: WR Robert Meachem, G Carl Nicks, NT Shaun Rogers, NT Aubrayo Franklin, LB Jo-Lonn Dunbar, CB Tracy Porter Key Draft Picks: DT Akiem Hicks (3), WR Nick Toon (4) Season preview: The Bountygate scandal has left many players and coaches

Drew Brees

suspended, including head coach Sean Payton for the year, though the team still has arguably the game’s best quarterback in Drew Brees. On defense, top performers such as LB Jonathan Vilma will be under suspension and the unit as a whole will have to adjust to not resorting to dirty play. But they did make some solid acquisitions in Lofton, Hawthorne and Bunkley, so the defense could actually improve. Still, this is a team in disarray and badly in need of a leader. That should be Brees, whose leadership will be especially integral to a team in crisis. A playoff berth would be a surprise. Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “They need (Brees) more than ever.”

Wk 1 - Washington Sept. 9 (Fox)

Wk 10 - Atlanta Nov. 11 (Fox)

Wk 2 - at Carolina Sept. 16 (Fox)

Wk 11 - at Oakland Nov. 18 (Fox)

Wk 3 - Kansas City Sept. 23 (CBS)

Wk 12 - San Francisco Nov. 25 (Fox)

Wk 4 - at Green Bay Sept. 30 (Fox)

Wk 13 - at Atlanta Nov. 29 (NFLN) (Thurs.)

Wk 5 - San Diego Oct. 7 (NBC)

Wk 14 - at N.Y. Giants Dec. 9 (Fox)

Wk 6 - Bye

Wk 15 - Tampa Bay Dec. 16 (Fox)

Wk 7 - at Tampa Bay Oct. 21 (Fox)

Wk 16 - at Dallas Dec. 23 (Fox)

Wk 8 - at Denver Oct. 28 (NBC)

Wk 17 - Carolina Dec. 30 (Fox)

Wk 9 - Philadelphia Nov. 5 (ESPN) (Mon.)

*Check local listings; subject to change.

2011 Record: 10-6, second place, NFC South; 0-1 in postseason, lost to Giants in wildcard game Head Coach: Mike Smith, fifth season Additions: LB Lofa Tatupu, G Vince Manuwai, CB Asante Samuel Departures: RB Ovie Mughelli, LB Mike Peterson, LB Curtis Lofton, S James Sanders, KR Eric Weems Key Draft Picks: C Peter Konz (2), OT Lamar Holmes (3) Season preview: After going 10-6 and losing to the eventual Super Bowl champs in the wild-card round, the Falcons made the best of their limited draft options to address a persistent problem and take

Matt Ryan

Holmes in the third round to play left tackle. Second-rounder Konz, a center by trade, will play right tackle. Another bugaboo was the running game, which couldn’t be addressed because of lack of resources, so Michael Turner and his 30-year-old legs will likely do the heavy lifting once again, helped by second-year man Jacquizz Rodgers. Samuel will help a lackluster pass defense, but free safety and defensive end remain areas of concern. Still, in a year where their chief rivals, the Saints, are missing key personnel, Matt Ryan and the Falcons should prosper. Division title, anyone? Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “They really need to use the situation of the Saints and jump on it.”

Wk 1 - at Kansas City Sept. 9 (Fox)

Wk 10 - at New Orleans Nov. 11 (Fox)

Wk 2 - Denver Sept. 17 (ESPN) (Mon.)

Wk 11 - Arizona Nov. 18 (Fox)

Wk 3 - at San Diego Sept. 23 (Fox)

Wk 12 - at Tampa Bay Nov. 25 (Fox)

Wk 4 - Carolina Sept. 30 (Fox)

Wk 13 - New Orleans Nov. 29 (NFLN) (Thurs.)

Wk 5 - at Washington Oct. 7 (Fox)

Wk 14 - at Carolina Dec. 9 (Fox)

Wk 6 - Oakland Oct. 14 (CBS)

Wk 15 - N.Y. Giants Dec. 16 (Fox)

Wk 7 - Bye

Wk 16 - at Detroit Dec. 22 (ESPN) (Sat.)

Wk 8 - at Philadelphia Oct. 28 (Fox)

Wk 17 - Tampa Bay Dec. 30 (Fox)

Wk 9 - Dallas Nov. 4 (NBC)

*Check local listings; subject to change.

Page 16

Anniston Weight Control Lipo Injections Call for Appointment

~~ Doctor

Supervised

$

• Lipotropic B6-B12 Injections $9-$18 • L-Carnitine • Appetite Suppressants • Phentermine (Adipex) • Phendimetrazine (Bontril)

2x9.32” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor”

79

First Initial Visit

Cannot be used with any other coupon. Must present this coupon to receive discount. Expires 8/31/2012.

Anniston Weight Control (256) 231-7999 • 1-866-443-2686

NFL PREVIEW 2012


NFC SOUTH 2011 Record: 6-10, third place, NFC South Head Coach: Ron Rivera, second season Additions: S Reggie Smith, K Justin Medlock, RB Mike Tolbert, S Haruki Nakamura, G Mike Pollak, OT Bruce Campbell, RB Armond Smith Departures: RB Mike Goodson, WR Legedu Naanee, TE Jeremy Shockey, OT/G Geoff Schwartz, G Travelle Wharton, G Mackenzy Bernadeau, LB Thomas Williams Key Draft Picks: LB Luke Kuechly (1), G Amini Silatolu (2), DE Frank Alexander (4), WR Joe Adams (4) Season preview: The Panthers took a big step forward last year, led by QB Cam Newton, who set a slew of rookie Wk 1 - at Tampa Bay Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - New Orleans Sept. 16 (Fox) Wk 3 - N.Y. Giants Sept. 20 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 4 - at Atlanta Sept. 30 (Fox) Wk 5 - Seattle Oct. 7 (Fox) Wk 6 - Bye Wk 7 - Dallas Oct. 21 (Fox) Wk 8 - at Chicago Oct. 28 (Fox) Wk 9 - at Washington Nov. 4 (Fox)

records. Now with several key defensive players (DT Ron Edwards, LB Jon Beason) returning from injury – and with the Saints weighed down by Bountygate – it could be time for another. The offensive line was an area of concern, so the team drafted Silatolu to replace Wharton at guard, but RT Jeff Otah’s bum knees may be a problem. The secondary is another weakness, though fifth rounder Josh Norman and signees Smith and Nakamura could help. The running game (Jonathan Stewart, DeAngelo Williams) and receiver corps (led by Steve Smith) rank with the best, as does Newton. If he can avoid a sophomore slump, a playoff berth is possible.

Cam Newton

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “I think offensively, they’re going to be fine. ... I don’t think the game is too big for Cam Newton.”

Wk 10 - Denver Nov. 11 (CBS) Wk 11 - Tampa Bay Nov. 18 (Fox) Wk 12 - at Philadelphia Nov. 26 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 13 - at Kansas City Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - Atlanta Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - at San Diego Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - Oakland Dec. 23 (CBS) Wk 17 - at New Orleans Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

2011 Record: 4-12, last place, NFC South Head Coach: Greg Schiano, first season Additions: WR Vincent Jackson, G Carl Nicks, CB Eric Wright, WR Tiquan Underwood, TE Chase Coffman, QB Dan Orlovsky, OT Jamon Meredith, DT Amobi Okoye, DT Gary Gibson, TE Dallas Clark, DE Wallace Gilberry Departures: QB Josh Johnson, RB Kregg Lumpkin, RB Earnest Graham, TE Kellen Winslow Jr., C Jeff Faine, DT Albert Haynesworth, LB Geno Hayes, CB Elbert Mack, S Tanard Jackson Key Draft Picks: S Mark Barron (1), RB Doug Martin (1), LB Lavonte David (2) Season preview: The Bucs had the NFL’s worst defense last year. They rid themselves of Wk 1 - Carolina Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - at N.Y. Giants Sept. 16 (Fox) Wk 3 - at Dallas Sept. 23 (Fox) Wk 4 - Washington Sept. 30 (Fox) Wk 5 - Bye Wk 6 - Kansas City Oct. 14 (CBS) Wk 7 - New Orleans Oct. 21 (Fox) Wk 8 - at Minnesota Oct. 25 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 9 - at Oakland Nov. 4 (Fox)

cancers in Haynesworth and Jackson, and acquired CB Wright. They also drafted David and fifth rounder Najee Goode to bolster the linebacker corps, plus Barron for safety. Also, DT Gerald McCoy returns from injury. On offense, Clark replaces Winslow at tight end, a dubious upgrade, and the dynamic Jackson comes over from the Chargers, though how dynamic he’ll be without Phil Rivers remains to be seen. The Bucs should see modest improvement if Josh Freeman can bounce back from a mediocre 2011. But with that inexperienced defense, they’ll still likely finish last.

Josh Freeman

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “They have a lot of talent, obviously. They didn’t handle success very well last year.”

Wk 10 - San Diego Nov. 11 (CBS) Wk 11 - at Carolina Nov. 18 (Fox) Wk 12 - Atlanta Nov. 25 (Fox) Wk 13 - at Denver Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - Philadelphia Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - at New Orleans Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - St. Louis Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - at Atlanta Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

Your Children Have Everything They Could Ask For. Does That Include Life Insurance? One of the most important things you can give your children is a life insurance policy for yourself. At Edward Jones, we meet with you face to face, so we can get to know you and your entire financial picture. That way, we can help find the life insurance policy that best suits your familyʼs unique needs.

4x5” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor” To learn about the wide range of life insurance products we offer, contact your Because all the toys in the world arenʼt worth as much to your children as ensuring youʼll always be there for them. local Edward Jones financial advisor.

Sharon Martin, AAMS®

Vester M Martin III, CFP®

240 Oxford Exchange Boulevard Oxford, AL 36203 256-835-5694

1419 Leighton Ave Suite C Anniston, AL 36207 256-238-2980

Financial Advisor

2 © 2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

Financial Advisor

www.edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com

Page 17


2012 NFL PREVIEW 2011 Record: 13-3, first place, NFC West; 1-1 in playoffs, lost to Giants in NFC Championship Head Coach: Jim Harbaugh, second season Additions: WR Randy Moss, WR Mario Manningham, CB Perrish Cox, RB Rock Cartwright, QB Josh Johnson, RB Brandon Jacobs Departures: WR Josh Morgan, G Adam Snyder, G Chilo Rachal, CB Shawntae Spencer, S Reggie Smith, S Madieu Williams Key Draft Picks: WR A.J. Jenkins (1), RB LaMichael James (2), G Joe Looney (4) Season preview: QB Alex Smith finally had his breakthrough year last year. Now he has to duplicate the feat, but with the Alex

Smith

Wk 1 - at Green Bay Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - Detroit Sept. 16 (NBC) Wk 3 - at Minnesota Sept. 23 (Fox) Wk 4 - at N.Y. Jets Sept. 30 (Fox) Wk 5 - Buffalo Oct. 7 (CBS) Wk 6 - N.Y. Giants Oct. 14 (Fox) Wk 7 - Seattle Oct. 18 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 8 - at Arizona Oct. 29 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 9 - Bye

Head Coach: Ken Whisenhunt, sixth season Additions: CB William Gay, G Adam Snyder, S James Sanders, DE/LB Quentin Groves Departures: OT Brandon Keith, G Rex Hadnot, CB Richard Marshall Key Draft Picks: WR Michael Floyd (1), CB Jamell Fleming (3), OT Bobby Massie (4)

Wk 1 - Seattle Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - at New England Sept. 16 (Fox) Wk 3 - Philadelphia Sept. 23 (Fox) Wk 4 - Miami Sept. 30 (CBS) Wk 5 - at St. Louis Oct. 4 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 6 - Buffalo Oct. 14 (CBS) Wk 7 - at Minnesota Oct. 21 (Fox) Wk 8 - San Francisco Oct. 29 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 9 - at Green Bay Nov. 4 (Fox)

Page 18

Larry Fitzgerald

INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW

CADILLAC XTS

THE XTS EXPERIENCE EXTENDS WELL BEYOND THE XTS.

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “If they are going to be a Super Bowl team … Alex Smith has to throw more than 17 touchdowns.” Wk 10 - St. Louis Nov. 11 (Fox) Wk 11 - Chicago Nov. 19 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 12 - at New Orleans Nov. 25 (Fox) Wk 13 - at St. Louis Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - Miami Dec. 9 (CBS) Wk 15 - at New England Dec. 16 (NBC) Wk 16 - at Seattle Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - Arizona Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

2011 Record: 8-8, second place, NFC West

Season preview: A quarterback competition looms for the Cardinals. Will it be Kolb, the inconsistent, concussion-prone veteran with the big contract? Or will it be John Skelton, the

distinct disadvantages of being the favorite and having a tough schedule. Manningham and Moss were added to a mediocre receiver corps, though how much of an upgrade they are over Michael Crabtree and Vernon Davis remains to be seen. Jacobs and James will help if the injury bug bites RB Frank Gore again. The top-flight defense returns all 11 starters from 2011, though questions remain in the secondary. Then there are potential troublemakers in Moss and Cox. The defense alone makes this a team to respect, but questions about Smith and team chemistry could drag them down.

raw youngster with the big arm? Whomever wins will have a future Hall of Famer to throw to in Larry Fitzgerald, who should see defenders drawn off him by top pick Floyd. Snyder represents an upgrade at right guard, but left tackle remains a concern. The running game should improve with a return to health by Chris Wells and Ryan Williams. On defense, there are few worries – it was one of the best in the league last year. That should remain the case this year, though depth at linebacker may be a problem. The Cardinals could snag a playoff berth this year, especially given the 49ers tough schedule.

2x9.32” ad “2012 NFL Sponsor”

An impressive amount of advanced technology is infused into every facet of the all-new Cadillac XTS. To that end, the XTS now includes an iPad, which is preloaded with an owner’s manual, as well as the Cadillac CUE1, myCadillac2 and OnStar RemoteLink3 apps.4 Your iPad provides you with intuitive technology that allows you to cadillac.com/xts get the most out of your new XTS. STARTING AT 44,9955. AS SHOWN 59,0805.

Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “This team will compete. … But offensively who is going to lead the team?” Wk 10 - Bye Wk 11 - at Atlanta Nov. 18 (Fox) Wk 12 - St. Louis Nov. 25 (Fox) Wk 13 - at N.Y. Jets Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - at Seattle Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - Detroit Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - Chicago Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - at San Francisco Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

[DEALER LOGO HERE]

420 Quintard Avenue, Anniston 256/236-4444 [ADDRESS 1 HERE] Sales: www.classiccadillacgmc.com [ADDRESS 2 HERE] (XXX) XXX-XXXX

Apple and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Apple is not a participant in or sponsor of this promotion. 1. Full functionality requires compatible Bluetooth® and smartphone. Some devices require USB connectivity. 2. Requires iPhone, Android or select BlackBerry platforms. 3. Requires active Onstar subscription. 4. Requires Internet access. 5. MSRP. Tax, title, license, dealer fees and other optional equipment extra.

NFL PREVIEW 2012


NFC WEST 2011 Record: 7-9, third place, NFC West Head Coach: Pete Carroll, third season Additions: QB Matt Flynn, DL Jason Jones, G Deuce Lutui, LB Barrett Ruud, TE Kellen Winslow Departures: RB Justin Forsett, TE John Carlson, G Robert Gallery, DE Raheem Brock, DT Tony Hargrove, LB David Hawthorne, LB Lofa Tatupu, S Atari Bigby Key Draft Picks: LB Bruce Irvin (1), LB Bobby Wagner (2), QB Russell Wilson (3), RB Robert Turbin (4), DT Jaye Howard (4) Season preview: Many questions loom for the Seahawks this

season. Among them is whether ex-Packer Flynn is a legitimate starting quarterback. The fact that his offensive coordinator, Joe Philbin, didn’t take him with him to Miami this year says much. Marshawn Lynch is a monster at running back – if he’s still motivated after signing that big contract. And Sidney Rice is a force to be reckoned with at wideout – if healthy. On defense, the front line is solid and the secondary has a pair of dynamic safeties in Kam Chancellor and Earl Thomas, but the linebacker corps is questionable. This team could be very good or very bad, depending on how things fall on offense. If we split the difference, an 8-8 season could be a reality. Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “This is a team that is built to run the football. Defensively, they’ll play better; they have to find a way of getting more out of the rush. … But who is going to be their quarterback?”

Kam Chancellor

Wk 1 - at Arizona Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - Dallas Sept. 16 (Fox) Wk 3 - Green Bay Sept. 24 (ESPN) (Mon.) Wk 4 - at St. Louis Sept. 30 (Fox) Wk 5 - at Carolina Oct. 7 (Fox) Wk 6 - New England Oct. 14 (CBS) Wk 7 - at San Francisco Oct. 18 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 8 - at Detroit Oct. 28 (Fox) Wk 9 - Minnesota Nov. 4 (Fox)

Wk 10 - N.Y. Jets Nov. 11 (CBS) Wk 11 - Bye Wk 12 - at Miami Nov. 25 (Fox) Wk 13 - at Chicago Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - Arizona Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - at Buffalo Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - San Francisco Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - St. Louis Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

2011 Record: 2-14, last place, NFC West Head Coach: Jeff Fisher, first season Additions: CB Cortland Finnegan, C Scott Wells, WR Steve Smith, DT Kendall Langford, LB Jo-Lonn Dunbar, DE William Hayes, LB Mario Haggan Departures: RB Cadillac Williams, WR Brandon Lloyd, WR Mark Clayton, G Jacob Bell, G Adam Goldberg, C Jason Brown Key Draft Picks: DT Michael Brockers (1), WR Brian Quick (2), CB Janoris Jenkins (2), RB Isaiah Pead (2), CB Trumaine Johnson (3), WR Chris Givens (4)

Sam Bradford

Wk 1 - at Detroit Sept. 9 (Fox) Wk 2 - Washington Sept. 16 (Fox) Wk 3 - at Chicago Sept. 23 (Fox) Wk 4 - Seattle Sept. 30 (Fox) Wk 5 - Arizona Oct. 4 (NFLN) (Thurs.) Wk 6 - at Miami Oct. 14 (Fox) Wk 7 - Green Bay Oct. 21 (Fox) Wk 8 - New England Oct. 28 (CBS) Wk 9 - Bye

Season preview: The Rams’ woes began last year with the line and spread through the offense. It gave up 55 sacks, leaving QB Sam Bradford injured and shell-shocked. Aside from Wells, the team did little to upgrade the O-line so Bradford may again be taking abuse. The Rams also failed to get a legitimate No. 1 receiver, though Danny Amendola is back from injury. RB Steven Jackson is solid, though his odometer is advancing. The defense, too, has problems, starting at linebacker. No. 2 pick Jenkins will help a mediocre secondary. The D-line has stars and holes. Jeff Fisher has his work cut out for him this season, likely a losing one. Herm Edwards’ (ESPN) take: “Sam Bradford’s got to stay healthy now because he has all the qualities of a franchise quarterback. He can be that guy. That’s why Jeff Fisher went there.” Wk 10 - at San Francisco Nov. 11 (Fox) Wk 11 - N.Y. Jets Nov. 18 (CBS) Wk 12 - at Arizona Nov. 25 (Fox) Wk 13 - San Francisco Dec. 2 (Fox) Wk 14 - at Buffalo Dec. 9 (Fox) Wk 15 - Minnesota Dec. 16 (Fox) Wk 16 - at Tampa Bay Dec. 23 (Fox) Wk 17 - at Seattle Dec. 30 (Fox) *Check local listings; subject to change.

ROLL BACK SAVINGS EVENT* Memory Foam Queen Set was $999 King Set $699 was $1,399

TWIN SETS WAS – $499

NOW $198

499

$

GEL

QUEEN SET

Reg. $1,299 • Sale Price

599

MEMORY $ FOAM

4x5” ad FULL SETS WAS – $599 QUEEN SETS WAS – $699 NFL Sponsor” $ NOW“2012 248 NOW $298

KING SETS WAS – $999

NOW $398

Store Hours: Mon - Sat 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. • Oxford Store Only Open Sunday 12-5 pm

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED 1225 Snow Street,Oxford, AL 36203

(256) 831-5357

2 © 2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

email: mattressmax01@bellsouth.net 2500 Hwy 431 North, Anniston, AL 36206

(256) 237-5115

SUPERSTORE

4414 McClellan Blvd, Anniston, AL 36201

(256) 237-3882

Page 19


locklier mayor for

“Fix anniston� The

background

The

diFFerences

The

plan

1. 30 Years Experience fixing businesses as Controller, CFO, General Mgr, VP of Finance

1. 30 Years Managing Budgets up to $550 Million

1. Put teams of experts, citizens and leaders together to form plans in different areas.

2. 15 Years Experience Managing Business Turnarounds, saving $27 Million

2. 30 Years Managing large numbers of employees up to 900 people

2. Create Revenues

3. 10 Years Experience Managing international operations in China

3. Helped turn 3 companies around in the last 15 years - $27 Million Saved

4. M.B.A./International Marketing - Auburn

4. Has helped AL, MD, VA, NE states market products in China

3. Bring International Business Contacts I have to Anniston

5. Served two years on U.S. Senate Committee - U.S. - China Relations

5. Can bring international business to Anniston

4. Begin marketing Anniston products in China

6. Assisted states of AL, MD, VA, NE in marketing products in China

6. Will donate part of first year salary to downtown ball park to help create revenues

5. Bring statewide contacts to Anniston to promote business

7. Lived in China and ran operations for Perdue Farms, China 2001 - 2004

7. Fresh global approach to running the city, no special interests

6. Educate and train our people

8. Volunteer work with Anniston, Saks, Donoho, Oxford and White Plains High Schools

8. Using my campaign to help local charities raise money

9. Wife, Kay retired teacher - Anniston City Schools

9. 30 Years Experience of bringing people together to be successful

7. Clean Up/Safety Block Mayors to assist Mayor in watching city and stay abreast of needs. 8. Youth - Put together more year round localized

10. Daughter, Julia - University of Alabama Million Dollar Band 2007-2009

A. Build a down town ball park and bring in 2-3 games a night B. Put together events for every weekend C. Put all these activities in a brochure and market out city D. Create Tax Incentives to help attract these businesses

A. Adults - Vocational and GED B. Children - Plan to be Best School System

youth recreational church leagues to help our youth spiritually, physically and mentally

9. Monitor City Budget closely for ways to reduce cost

Paid for by Brant Locklier, 1 Hathaway Heights Rd, Anniston, AL 36207


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.