The Lucky Punter

Nine weeks into the 2006 NFL season, Cincinnati Bengals All-Pro wide receiver Chad Johnson had tallied 40 catches for 482 yards and two touchdowns. Decent stats for some but far below what the outspoken Johnson expected from himself - not to mention fantasy football nerds everywhere (I should know, I own him).

Of course, in this age of me-first sports what is the fashionable thing to do if you don’t think your stats are as good as they can be? You got it. Complain bitterly to the press.

And thats just what Chad did in an expletive filled rant that might have even made T.O. blush.

However, I’m pleased to report that this story has a happy ending because in the two weeks since Ocho Cinco went public with his anger he has had a couple of pretty decent games.

Actually, two un-freakin-believable games would be a better description as Chad has hauled in 17 balls for 450 yards and five touchdowns in just two games against the Chargers and the Saints.

Great, more validation for the me-first attitude that is killing team sports. On the bright side, my fantasy team is making a nice run at the playoffs.