NFL GridIron Gab Daily Digest

Here are a few questions and answers that may help you understand the collective bargaining agreement that is set to expire in the National Football League.

Q.         When does the CBA expire should there be no extension to the agreement?

A.         In March of 2011.

Q.         Will there be a college draft in 2011?

A.         Yes.

Q.         What is the "Final League Year" in the current agreement?

A.         The "Final League Year" is the term used in the CBA to refer to the last year of the agreement.  Without a further extension of the CBA, the "Final League Year" would be the 2010 League Year, which begins on March 5.

Q.         What are the differences between the "Final League Year" and any other "League Year?"

A.         The principal differences are that in the "Final League Year" there is no salary cap and there are substantial additional restrictions on player free agency and reductions in player benefits.

Q.         Are current player benefits affected in the Final League Year?

A.         We expect current player benefits to decline in the Final League Year.  The union agreed that in the Final League Year, clubs would be relieved of their obligation to fund numerous benefit programs.  Examples include second career savings (401K), player annuity, severance pay and performance-based pay.  The total league-wide contributions to such plans in 2009, the last capped year, were in excess of $325 million or more than $10 million per club.

Q.         Are retired player benefits affected in the Final League Year?

A.         Commissioner Goodell has stated in a letter to the NFL Alumni Association Board of Directors that there will be no reduction in pension or disability payments to retired players during the Final League Year (2010).  Since at least the fall of 2007, NFL owners have consistently agreed and planned that they will not reduce the funding for pension or disability benefits for retired players.  Nor will they reduce funding for the 88 Plan during the Final League Year.

Q.         What determines an unrestricted free agent in the Final League Year (2010)?

A.         In capped seasons, a player whose contract has expired becomes an unrestricted free agent if he has four or more accrued seasons.  In the Final League Year (2010), a player whose contract has expired becomes an unrestricted free agent only if he has six or more accrued seasons.  An unrestricted free agent is free to sign with any club with no compensation owed to his old club.

Q.         What determines whether a player is a restricted free agent in the "Final League Year?"

A.         In capped seasons, a player whose contract expires becomes a restricted free agent if he has three accrued seasons.  In the Final League Year (2010), a player whose contract expires becomes a restricted free agent if he has three, four or five accrued seasons.  The first refusal/compensation rights of restricted free agents remain unchanged in the Final League Year.

Q.         In addition to the right to designate a franchise (or transition) player each capped year, can clubs designate additional players in the Final League Year?

A.         Yes, one additional player can be tagged.  In capped years, a club may designate a franchise player or a transition player.  In the final league year (2010), a club may designate one additional transition player.  A transition player must be offered a minimum of the average of the top 10 salaries of the prior season at the player's position or 120 percent of the player's prior year's salary, whichever is greater.  A transition player designation gives the club a first-refusal right to match within seven days an offer sheet given to the player by another club after his contract expires.  If the club matches, it retains the player.  If it does not match, it receives no draft pick compensation from that club.

Q.         What is the Final Eight Plan?

A.         During the Final League Year, the eight clubs that make the Divisional Playoffs in the previous season have additional restrictions that limit their ability to sign unrestricted free agents from other clubs.  In general, the four clubs participating in the championship games are limited in the number of free agents that they may sign; the limit is determined by the number of their own free agents signing with other clubs.  They cannot sign any UFAs unless one of theirs is signed by another team.

For the four clubs that lost in the Divisional Playoffs, in addition to having the ability to sign free agents based on the number of their own free agents signing with other clubs, they may also sign players based on specific financial parameters.  Those four only will be permitted to sign one unrestricted free agent for $5.5 million (estimated) or more in year one of the contract, plus the number of their UFAs who sign with another team. They also can sign any unrestricted free agents for less than $3.7 (estimated) million in year one of the contract with limitations on the per year increases.

In the case of all final eight teams, the first year salary of UFAs they sign to replace those lost cannot exceed the first year salary of the player lost with limitations on the per year increases.

Q.         Is there an Entering Player Pool in the Final League Year?

A.         There may be.  The CBA provides that the league has the unilateral right to keep or eliminate the rookie pool in the Final League Year.

Q.         Is there a Minimum Team Salary in the Final League Year?

A.         There is no Minimum Team Salary in the Final League Year.  The Minimum Team Salary in 2009 is $107,748,000, meaning each team is required to allocate more than $107 million to player costs (not including benefits).  The team salary cap in 2009 was $123 million.

Q.         Are there individual player minimum salaries in the Final League Year?

A.         Yes, but they rise at a rate somewhat slower than player minimum salaries rise in capped years.

Q.         Do any player contract rules from capped years remain in place for the Final League Year?

A.         Yes, some rules like the "30% increase rule" are still in effect in the Final League Year for player contracts signed in capped years.  That rule restricts salary increases from 2009 to 2010.  For example: a player with a $500,000 salary in 2009 would be limited to annual salary increases of $150,000 ($500,000 x 30%) beginning in 2010.

Courtesy of the NFL

Of course there are going to be changes for the Chargers before the 2010 season, and one may include possibly trading cornerback Antonio Cromartie, who may be dealt to try to free up some money for the offseason.

Sporting News has the following about how the team may look to move Cromartie:

The Chargers' Super Bowl window may be starting to shrink, because they might have some roster issues with some of their most talented players, including ballhawking starting cornerback Antonio Cromartie.

Reporting for the San Diego Union-Tribune, SN correspondent Kevin Acee writes that team officials may look to trade Cromartie in the offseason to free up some money to sign other key players.

One of those players is running back Darren Sproles, who stands to make $7.3 million in 2010 if he's tendered as a restricted free agent without a long-term deal in place.

The Chargers would also need to put in a high tender — worth a first- and third-round pick — for wide receiver Vincent Jackson, to protect against teams signing him to an offer sheet they can't match.

Of course, there's that little decision on what to do with LaDainian Tomlinson as well. Tomlinson failed to rush for 100 yards in any game this season, and could be released.

As far as L.T. goes, there’s no doubt that he’ll be gone. They had to come to terms last offseason and it went round and round before they finally decided to keep him around. After another sub par season, there’s no doubt he’s more on the decline than ever, and the club has to finally make the full transition to Darren Sproles.

Over the last several weeks, Coach Boynton’s predictions have been ridiculously spot on. He’s 5 – 0 over this period and 15 – 3 for the season. Is he the great prognosticator ? Absolutely not ! But even a blind squirrel gets an occasional acorn.

But, weather it’s insight ( Doubtful ), foresight ( questionable ) or just Dumb luck ( Now your talking ! ): There has been one constant…..The Coach is Hot ! It seems that lately, every time I make a pick, the team I’ve been picking has won. As a matter of fact, the stronger I boast about it, the more impressive the team, especially the Vikings seems to play.

I’m stumped ! It’s like Curly getting a Rhodes Scholarship for his ability to use English as a foreign language. Please understand, I am not trying to brag or make myself the next Jimmy the Greek. Believe me, no one is more surprised then I am. But, us old Viking fans are a superstisious breed, so while I’m on a roll………here’s hoping there is at least 2 more predictions left in the bag.

According to the guru’s in Vegas, the Saints are a 4 1/2 point favorite. Well, if you read my article last week, you know that the spread is not determined by who is suppose to win, but by who is getting the most money placed on them. So, let’s throw that garbage out the window while the Coach explains his logic while he sticks his neck out yet again while the media big wigs sharpen their axes for yours truly.

The three best QB's on the planet are still in play. First up, Drew Brees and the high-flying Saints. They are scary, but their high octane passing game is based on speed and precision. Their margin for error in this attack is razor thin. If they execute….they will be nearly impossible to stop.

Reggie Bush is lethal, but the Vikings are the best run stopping force the NFL has ever seen. No NFL team in history had been number 1 vs. the run for 3 years in a row before them. Yes, we came in # 2 this year, but our 4 year average in this category is beyond reproach.

Then there are the Saints receivers. Starting with the enigmatic TE Jeremy Shockey – 48 receptions / 11.9 avg. / 3 TDs.

Wideouts – Marques Colson – 70 receptions / 15.3 avg./ 9 Td's
Devery Henderson – 51 receptions,/15.8 avg. / 2 td's
Robert Meacham – 45 receptions / 16.0 avg. / 9 td's.

An explosive and sure handed group -

However, if the front four can put enough pressure on Brees, and the corners can disrupt the routes by playing close and physical. While the safeties fill the gaps and stop the big plays ( All BIG ifs ! ) Then this is the type of offense that can become frustrated and be prone to breakdowns.

Yes, they are going to pass the ball early and often. This is what the Saints do and this is what the Saints are. What they are not, is a physical, smash-mouth power team that can just push you around however they want.

Use whatever superlatives you want…….If the Vikings play like they did last Sunday, NO ONE…..Not the Saints, Jets or Colts will beat this team !

I know that the 98 team had a feel of invincibility to it. But I remember having a gut feeling that the whole thing just didn't feel right. That something Bad was going to happen……Enter Gary Anderson ( Let's not go there ).

I don't have that same negative feeling this year. I am not looking over my shoulder waiting for the other shoe to drop. It just feels like this year is "Special". ( I am sure Saint fans feel the same). But if there is any team in the NFL that has been more frustrating and more prone to choking the big one…..it's the Saints.

As I said last week-end, Call me crazy, but Coach B. just doesn't think the season is going to end this weekend.

I must add that I am trying my best not to let the "Homer" ( Not Simpson ) factor enter by being as antiseptically clean as possible here. But the thing is, when I predict with my heart, I tend to be pessimistic from all the mishaps of season's past. I am usually predicting doom and gloom and another inglorious end to a promising story.

So, bear with me as I try to give you my rationale in my own Irrational way.

Thus, while my heart ponders "What bad, unusual and unpredictable event can fall in our path to derail this season. My head is telling me one simple truth……..

This Viking team is better then the New Orleans Saints !

There, I said it ! I won't apologize for it is my honest opinion. If Sunday proves me wrong, then I will admit my foolishness in next weeks column for all to read.

The difference in the two teams may be admittedly, miniscule. If this game was being played in Minnesota, I would have no doubt as to the outcome.. But the Vikings are 4-4 on the road and the Superdome is a tough place to hang the hopes of your entire season.

On the othe hand, the Vikings are 11 – 0 on turf, have the hottest and perhaps best big game QB in the game, arguably the worlds best RB, who is due to have a breakout game and the most physical defense with the best defensive coordinator on the planet. There is a lot to base my dissertation on..

In summation, I am once again willing to go against conventional thinking here. So strap yourself in for the whole wild ride on Sunday. As the Vikings attempt to make believers out of the media on their way to making history.

Watch out Drew Brees……..the Vikings are bringing their 3 ring Circus to the Big Easy. You guys are very good. You are having perhaps the finest season in your franchises existence….. But you boy's haven't seen anything resembling THIS team yet ! The Saints are going to have to play like World Champions to bring down this Monster !

- Coach B is betting you will fall just a tiny bit short. Here is how is WILL happen:

1. It will be close late.
2. Someone makes a season deciding play. My guess is Adrian Peterson, giving…
3. Ryan Longwell the opportunity to steal this one.
4. He WILL NOT miss !

Coaches Iron Clad Lock of the Year prediction is:

Vikings – 31 Saints – 28

Go ahead… Make your reservations for the "Big Dance" !!!

Hunt Auctions, a sports memorabilia auction company based in Exton, Pa., will again partner with NFL Auction and NFL PLAYERS to produce The Super Bowl XLIV Live Auction in Miami.  The live auction will feature more than 280 football related items from both past and present stars ranging from Joe Namath to Brett Favre. A portion of the proceeds from the auction will benefit charities designated by the NFL, NFL PLAYERS and participating NFL teams.

Highlighted items of this year's auction include:
·    Joe Namath New York Jets game-worn jersey c.1970-73 (Estimated Value: $20,000-$30,000)
·    Scarce Sammy Baugh Washington Redskins professional model jersey c.1940s ($20,000-$30,000)
·    Norm Van Brocklin 1949 College All-Stars game-worn uniform and helmet ($10,000-$15,000)
·    Brett Favre 2008 New York Jets game-used Captain’s patch jersey ($10,000-$15,000)
·    Mark Sanchez 2009 New York Jets rookie game-worn jersey ($2,000-$3,000)
·    Kurt Warner Arizona Cardinals game-worn autographed jersey ($2,000-$3,000)
·    2009 AFC & NFC Championship Game kickoff footballs ($1,500-$2,500 each)
·    1972 Miami Dolphins team-signed football ($1,000-$1,500)
·    Black Eyed Peas autographed 2009 NFL Kickoff Football ($200-$400)

"Hunt Auctions is thrilled to be working with NFL Auction and NFL PLAYERS to bring both vintage and modern collectibles to the fan market," said David Hunt, president of Hunt Auctions. "The Super Bowl is a terrific place to connect with passionate fans, and we are pleased to be taking part in this exciting auction event once again."

Super Bowl XLIV Live Auction events will kickoff with a Preview Exhibition at Super Bowl Fan Zone at South Beach as part of the fan attractions.  All 280+ live auction items will be on display for visitors of the Super Bowl Fan Zone from 10AM-6PM on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Feb. 4  and 5, and will wrap up on Saturday, Feb. 6 from 9 a.m. -11 p.m.  Admission to the preview is free.  In addition, Hunt Auctions will run a complimentary appraisal fair for fans who want to learn more about their own sports collectibles.  A limited number of items will be accepted on consignment for the auction.

On Sunday, Feb. 7,the action turns to The Hard Rock Café (401 Biscayne Blvd. R-200 at Bayside Marketplace, Miami, FL 33132) where the live auction opens for public bidding at 1 p.m. Bids can either be made in person at the Hard Rock Café on Sunday, via telephone at 610-524-0822, or online at www.HuntAuctions.com up until Saturday, Feb. 6 at 5 p.m.. More information and photos of all the items being auctioned can also be found at www.HuntAuctions.com.

"The NFL is proud to provide a compelling auction experience for our fans," said Pete Quaglierini, NFL manager of NFL Auction. "Our fans have continually shown their support each year and we are happy to give them the opportunity to own merchandise from their favorite stars, all while helping out worthwhile charities."

"NFL PLAYERS is excited to build upon our partnership with Hunt Auctions," said Chad Kurz, player marketing manager for NFL PLAYERS. "NFL Auction represents one of the many ways NFL players are making a difference in their local communities, and this platform brings much needed awareness and funds to those efforts."

LB Clay Matthews and DL B.J. Raji were named to the National Football League all-rookie team.  The team is selected by Pro Football Weekly and the Professional Football Writers of America. Matthews joined Hawk (2006), Barnett (2003), Diggs (2000) and Simmons (1993) as Packers' all-rookie linebackers. Raji joined Holliday (1998), Carreker (1984) and Mike Butler (1977) as Packers' only all-rookie defensive linemen.

OFFENSE

WR: Percy Harvin, Minnesota; Austin Collie, Indianapolis.

TE: Brandon Pettigrew, Detroit.

T: Michael Oher, Baltimore; Phil Loadholt, Minnesota.

G: Andy Levitre, Buffalo; Louis Vasquez, San Diego.

C: Alex Mack, Cleveland.

QB: Mark Sanchez, NY Jets.

RB: Knowshon Moreno, Denver; Beanie Wells, Arizona.

DEFENSE

DL: Tyson Jackson, Kansas City; Terrance Knighton, Jacksonville; B.J. Raji, Green Bay; Matt Shaughnessy, Oakland.

LB: Brian Cushing, Houston; Clay Matthews, Green Bay; Brian Orakpo, Washington.

CB: Vontae Davis, Miami; Jacob Lacey, Indianapolis.

S: Jairus Byrd, Buffalo; Louis Delmas, Detroit.

SPECIALISTS

K: Ryan Succop, Kansas City.

P: Pat McAfee, Indianapolis.

PR: Quan Cosby, Cincinnati.

KR: Percy Harvin, Minnesota.

ST: LaRod Stephens-Howling, Arizona.

Both New York and Minnesota are road underdogs in the Conference Championships on Sunday, yet each in their own way has proven to be a valuable play for the sports bettor. The last time two top seeds made it to the Super Bowl was the season of 1993. Since that time, on seven different occasions a matchup of the best from the NFC and AFC could have happened and not once did this occur. Betting on No.1 leaves a nasty mark at 5-9 against the spread, with seven outright losers, six from the AFC. This means bettors at Sportsbook.com could be in for a healthy return on investment in back one or both of the underdogs.

Confident New York rolling

The Jets are the bigger underdog at 7.5-points at Sportsbook.com and are +280 on the money line. Indianapolis has nobody to blame but itself for ending up with this opponent. The Colts pulled many of their top players against the Jets in Week 16 and New York stormed to a 26-6 second half, providing the momentum they needed to start winning. Make no mistake, Coach Rex Ryan has this team believing they are every bit as good as the 85' Bears and '00 Ravens, both defensive-oriented teams that won Super Bowls.

In analyzing the rosters of the two teams, take away Peyton Manning; a case could be made the Jets have a better starting roster. The Colts offensive line is merely average with Indy have no running game to speak of, saved by Manning's ability to get rid the ball. No doubt Manning has the skill to pick apart any defense, but this is a unique Jets D, who creates relentless pressure from every angle imaginable and whose job this week is to make Manning miserable, leading to bad throws and possible picks.

The Jets are going to run the ball with Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene, as the duo, behind a talented offensive line, averages 4.5 yards per carry on 38 attempts per contest. Quarterback Mark Sanchez has played smartly in recent weeks and his confidence has been growing, and he has been making better throws especially once the second half arrives.

NFL playoff football has evolved into getting hot at the right time. The Flyboys have won and covered seven of eight and aren't worried about playing a third straight game on the road, the Giants and Steelers have won Super Bowls in the last four years doing so.

Strong defensive teams allowing 14-18 points per game, against teams that allow 18 to 23 points per contest, after allowing 17 points or less in three straight times, are 44-18 on the money line.

Minnesota is Favre-ulous

It was a little shocking to see New Orleans as four-point favorites over Minnesota, since the Vikings appear to have a decidedly better defense. That said, the Vikings have not been nearly as good away from the Metrodome this season, with a .500 record SU and ATS and haven't won or covered a road game since Nov. 1 in Green Bay (0-3).

It would be foolish to dismiss Minnesota since this team is right where many thought they would be dating back to the middle of October. Brett Favre has been amazing.

While New Orleans has offensive weapons all over the field, the Minnesota crew is hardly second-rate. Receivers like Sidney Rice are explosive and rookie Percy Harvin is a ticking time bomb that could detonate at any time. The Vikings offensive line and Adrian Peterson have seen a number of different defensive schemes, all designed to stop A.P.; nonetheless they have to be encouraged with the Saints permitting 4.6 yards per carry.

The strength of Minny's defense is not in the secondary, however, if the Vikings defensive line plays the same as they did against Dallas, it won't matter again. Minnesota has four legitimate run stoppers and pass rushers on every play. The affects of defensive pressure have been on display in eight playoff games and if they can shake up Drew Brees, the possibilities start to open up.

This is the moment Favre yearned for and no doubt wants retribution for the NFC title game failure while with Green Bay two years ago. Teams that average 7.3 or more yards per pass attempt, against average passing defense (5.9-6.7 YPPA), after gaining eight or more passing yards an attempt in two straight games, are 37-12 on the money line the last five seasons. At +160, the Vikes are worth serious consideration.

Head over to Sportsbook.com to get in on the Conference Championship wagering. Be sure to place your bets on Friday at a discount with -105 Juice.

ESPN’s Mark Schlereth and Tedy Bruschi tell you who will represent the NFC in the Super Bowl.