NFL Network Insider: Bob Papa
4:30 PM - 5:30 PM ETBob Papa
37 comments
NFL Network play-by-play announcer Bob Papa chatted live with NFL Nation on Wednesday, June 24, taking questions on Eli Manning, who the best receiver is in the NFL, and more.
Check out Papa this week on NFL Network's Total Access, airing daily at 7 p.m. ET.
-
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Hey NFL fans. Thanks for joining on NFL.com. I'm looking forward to answering your questions this afternoon. I'm also excited to be a part of Total Access on NFL Network for the next three nights. Ready to roll..... -
owen, calgary
4:37 PM ET
Hey Bob, Larry Fitgerald or Andre Johnson as number 1 wideout in the nfl? why? also where do you think brandon marshall will end up if he isnt on denver?just give me a team, not denver please)
Bob Papa, NFL Network
I would have to say Fitx, although Andre Johnson is a hidden gem. People within the league would tell you that Johnson takes a back seat to no one. Sorry but I think Brandon will be a Bronco. -
Bobby Hanson, Picayune, Ms.
4:39 PM ET
Do you see the Falcons as legitimate Super Bowl Contenders?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Bobby, sure I think that the Falcons can be a force. When you have a running game like theirs you are always in the mix. Plus Matt Ryan will only get better, especially with Tony Gonzalez as a weapon. -
Ben, England
4:41 PM ET
How big of an impact will Hakeem Nicks have with the Giants this year?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
I know rookie receivers don't normally have a big impact but I beleive Nicks will. Desean Jackson and Eddie Royal did as rookies. Nicks will not catch 80 balls, but that doesn't mean he will NOT have an impact. With their running game and other weapons he should be a very good playmaker for Eli. -
Corey, Utah
4:43 PM ET
So can Rex Ryan back up all his big talk this season? Thanks for answering, btw...
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Corey, I think so. Rex is just having fun. The Jets are a talented team and will play very good defense. They run the ball and have a good o-line. The big question is their WR production. Rex is just having a little fun. Remember this is the offseason! -
Richard, South Daytona, FL
4:45 PM ET
Your my favorite announcer! Anyway besides WR what position do you think the Giant have the biggest question mark at?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Richard, great question. Linebacker is a curious position for the Giants. They just announced today that Michael Boley underwent hip surgery and will take 8-10 weeks for full recovery. AP gets everybody lined up in the middle, but Boley's athletic ability was going to be a key for this defense. Clint Sintum has a lot of upside, but the group as a whole is un-proven. The Boley news is not what you want to hear as you get ready for camp. -
mat, ks
4:48 PM ET
where do you get a kick butt name like that?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Mat. My family is from Italy. Papa means Pope. I just got lucky. Didn't need too many letter to learn Bob Papa! -
Edgar, Los Angeles, California
4:50 PM ET
Who could have made a bigger impact with NE: matthews or maualuga.
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Edgar. I was shocked when NE didn't take Matthews. I would have liked to see Maualuga and Mayo in the middle in the future. But who am I tell to tell Bill Belichick about linebackers! -
Tom Johnson, Mass
4:52 PM ET
Do you think now that julius peppers signed his franchise tender that he will be traded away?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Now that he signed, he could be traded. I don't think that Carolina wants to trade him. My guess is that they will eventually work out a longer term deal and he will remain in his home state. -
Bob Papa, Los Angeles, California
4:53 PM ET
Woah! Who is trying to be me?!?!??
Bob Papa, NFL Network
And we are not related! -
j, miami
4:54 PM ET
is the new york giants reciever search dead?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
J. If you are talking trade for Boldin or Edwards I would say yes. Jerry Reese and the organization are commited to their draft picks this year and in the future. If there was a free agent on the market at WR they could be aggressive. But remember all of these guys are under contract and would require a trade. -
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Sorry for being away for a few minutes. They just ran a fire drill here at NFL Network. Had to clear the building. Lady walking through the halls with a whistle. Just just stepped off the set of the Sound Of Music. Marshall and Fran walking through the parking lot in full makeup. The fun never stops in LA. -
Mike, San Diego
5:08 PM ET
Hey Papa, who do you think got the better of the Eli / Rivers trade?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Mike. The Chargers would say they did based on Rivers stats and the other players drafted with the picks from the Giants. The Giants would say they did because they won the Super Bowl and Eli was the MVP. That makes it an even trade that worked out well for both team don't you think? -
Karen, Reno, NV
5:10 PM ET
Who looks better in make up - Marshall or Fran?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Our makeup people are so good that you can't even tell they are wearing any! -
Jack, Indy
5:11 PM ET
So, bob: where do my colts end up this year? Win the division, or wildcard, or superbowl winners?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Jack, I believe the Colts will be an interesting watch all season. The coaching changes will have quite an impact. It's not the sort of change that Peyton has had to deal with. While everybody is focused on Moore, Mudd and Meeks, few people even mention that Tony Dungy is gone. His even tempered manner and consistency will be missed in subtle ways. Jim Caldwell is a good coach, but it is a new role for him as headcoach. They key for them is being more physical defensively and continuing to add size. I beleive they will make the playoffs but in the end I don't think that defense can make enough stops to win a Super Bowl again. -
AJ, Minnesota
5:16 PM ET
Hey Bob, seeing how there was a fire drill ill ask again. What kind of role do you see Percy Harvin having the most impact on for the Vikings this season, special teams or the offense (possibly in the wild-cat)?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
AJ. Percy will have his specific packages within the offense as a receiver and in a "wildcat". Based on their running game, Harvin will create a change of pace that will pay huge dividends. I am expecting to see Favre there and if he can play like he did for the Jets through the first 11 games that team will be scary. -
Zhi, NY
5:18 PM ET
Bob, huge fan of yours, on NFL network, Sirius, and let's not forget the Giants round table talk every week. We all know that Eli struggles against the wind, in Giants stadium. My question is, how can Eli rid himself of this problem? Because the wind isnt going anywhere.
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Eli mentioned to me the other day that he has been really studying and working on his deep ball throws in the offseason. I know that is an area that he would like to improve. With that said, I think the Giants attack might be a bit different this year based on personnel. I think the Giants will look to utilize some more underneath throws as the weather turns in East Rutherford because they feel that they have quite a few players that will be more explosive as far as yards after the catch. -
Tre, The Beach Florida
5:21 PM ET
Hey Papa. A lot of people are talking highly of the Texans...so highly in fact that bloggers are picking them to go deep into the playoffs. I've even seen a few picking them to win it all! I know they made a lot of good off-season moves...but are they THAT good?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Tre. There are a lot of great pieces in place in Houston and this team is poised to make a move above .500. I also do not discount how disruptive the hurricane was to that team last year. I believe it was a bigger factor than they would ever admit. With that said, Matt Schaub needs to stay healthy and elevate this game. Plain and simple. -
Paul, Toronto Canada
5:23 PM ET
you guys always dodge this question...who do you predict to win the super bowl hands down...one winner not a list of maybes?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Paul. It's JUNE! I like to make a pick after the preseason. Every year several key players get hurt in training camp. That can destroy a team's chances. Sorry. You asked and I gave you an honest answer. Check back with me in September. -
Stephen, Scotland
5:25 PM ET
who is the best second year offensive tackle
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Stephen. My favorite is Ryan Clady of Denver. Slow day in Scotland? -
matt , boca raton, fl.
5:26 PM ET
What's up Bob, how do you see the AFC east finishing this year 1-4?? and is there a wildcard team in there??
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Matt. Based on the fact that you live in Florida I'm guessing you want me to say the Dolphins? Then you are going to rip me when I say New England. They finished in a tie with Miami at 11-5 without Tom Brady. I think that Miami and the Jets will battle for second and a wild card spot. I think Buffalo will be better but I still have them last. I'm not sure what the Bills defensive identity is. And Trent Edwards needs to play better than he did last year or else TO is going to get very upset. -
David, Silver Spring, MD
5:30 PM ET
Do you think to much is expected of the Eagles this year. Westbrook can't stay healthy, and Brian Dawkins is gone (who I believe was an important emotional leader of the defense). Is to much expected of these rookies who haven't proven anything. Also when is more heat going to be put on Andy Ried rather then Donovan because Andy hasn't done anything to win a championship.
Bob Papa, NFL Network
The Eagles record speaks for itself. 5 division titles in the last 10 years. One NFC Championship. I think they finally have some viable options to spell Westbrook and try to keep him fresh. I think the loss of Dawkins will be important. He is not the same player he once was, but then this team hits a rocky stretch it was Dawkins who kept it together. Who takes over that roll? Plus with DC Jimmy Johnson battling health issues, not having Dawkins around to make sure everybody is in the right place will hurt. I think Andy would disagree that he hasn't had heat placed on him for playoff near-misses. -
frankie, grundy va
5:34 PM ET
What city gets the next expansion team?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Hopefully no city. I like the league at a nice, even 32 teams with 4 teams in each division. If you are asking about a team moving, I'm guessing LA would be the first stop. -
footballmadness, buffalo, New york
5:35 PM ET
Hello Mr. Papa...I just want to know who do you think has the "Best Reciever" title. In opinion base on actual stats, Randy Moss has been and still is. There has been many talks that Larry Fitzgerald is now taking over as the # 1 reciever. I agree he has all the skills to become one but he's just not quite up there yet with Randy M. I meant base on past ability and achievments. Isn't obvious that Randy is still the most dangerous guy down the field? Tell me what you think....Thanks
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Good question but hard to answer. Receivers on each team are asked to do different things. Randy strikes fear in every opponent and with Welker alongside and Brady throwing the rock that's good enough for me. Fitz is great, Andre Johnson is great. So is Boldin. And let's not forget about how good Reggie Wayne is. It's like ice cream. It all tastes good. It just depends on the flavor that you like best. -
barbara, Just left of Giants' Stadium
5:39 PM ET
Today is Rich Eisen's Birthday. Are there any plans for a party??
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Barbara...It's the Big 40 for Rich. He took the day off. It would have been nice to give him a pie in the face celebration, but Rich is too smart to let that happen. -
Josh, PA
5:40 PM ET
What do you think about Greg Jennings new deal, Bob Papa???
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Good things happen to good people. It was the textbook approach on how to get a new deal. Keep it out of the media and be a good citizen off the field. Great news for Packers fans and especially Aaron Rodgers. -
Big M, Italy
5:42 PM ET
if noone is willing to ask then i will...your italian and that nice full head of hair is real? tell the truth...
Bob Papa, NFL Network
full head of hair and all mine! I owe it to great family genes. The Naples side of the family. -
BF, Hatie Miss
5:43 PM ET
Will they let me wear #4 purple jersey, or do I have to arm wrestle Booty???
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Brett. I'm sure you can wear #4. Booty will be lucky to still be on the team once camp ends. How's the fence repairing down at compound going? Better get it all done before you head to camp. -
Mike S., San Diego, CA
5:46 PM ET
Hey Bob, I'm a huge Bears fan and wanted to ask you what your thoughts are on them this upcoming season. Did you like trade for Cutler? And should they pursue Plaxico Burress?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Mike. You got what you have been waiting for. A franchise QB. He will make the receivers better and it's great news for Greg Olson. If you want to deal with the headaches then Plax is your guy. Will he be suspended is what you have to weigh. -
Scott, Pittsburgh, PA
5:49 PM ET
Here is a scenari for you Mr. Papa! You are leading in the 4th quarter 21-20. You score a Touchdown and go up 27-20. Do you go for a two-point converision to make it a nine point game, two possessions, keeping in mind if you miss it, it's still a seven point game, or do you just hit the extra point and go up 8?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Scott. Depends on what type of team I have. And where in the 4th quarter we are at.If I'm Mike Tomlin I kick the extra point to go up 8 because I trust my defense. If I'm the Colts I go for two and try to go up 9 because I know my defense might not get the stop. It really varies by team and how your defense is playing and your trust factor. -
Jamison Delcambre, Ocean Springs Mississippi
5:52 PM ET
What game are you looking foward to callingt he most this year.
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Here comes a weak answer. All of them on NFL Network. We have a great schedule and last year we had some fantastic finishes. Plus with the Giants every Sunday it is a lot of fun. Sometimes the games you least expect greatness from is where is shows up. -
David, Silver Spring, MD
5:54 PM ET
When I was speaking of Andy Ried and championships, I meant Super Bowls. He has 0 and Reid all he does is win and looks pretty during the season but flops when playoffs come around. If this was any other coach like Coughlin people would be calling for his head.
Bob Papa, NFL Network
That is the rub with Andy and until it changes and they win a Super Bowl that question will always linger. But I can say for certain that if ever was let go in Philadelphia teams would be lining up to hire him. -
DMac5, Arizona
5:55 PM ET
Hey Bob...why does everyone in Philadelphia hate me? Name one other QB who has taken his team to five championship games in seven years...I have been booed since the first day I got here...can you offer me up any help???
Bob Papa, NFL Network
If this was the real Donovan, this question would not have been asked. We have already talked about this in private numerous times. Plus I see a lot of fans in Philly earing #5 jerseys so the hate thing is overstated. -
zareroner, new york
5:57 PM ET
hey bob how hard do u think the loss of michael boley will impact the giants they were a pretty good on defense last year can they get better this year with all the players they picked up during the offseason
Bob Papa, NFL Network
See my earlier response to this. -
Steve Otto, Boca Raton fla
5:58 PM ET
With the NY Giants defence looking on paper to be one of the best this season in the NFL, did Jerry Reese make the right move to draft Nicks and Barden for this year and the future instead of throwing big bucks at a WR in the FA?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Jerry stayed true to his philosophy. Remember, the veteran WR that were discussed were NOT free agents. Boldin, Edwards, Marshall are property of other teams. He wasn't giving up a lot of picks for them. His mode of operation has already won one Super Bowl. -
Andy, NJ
6:00 PM ET
You dodged the question about Eli and the wind by Zhi. Why isn't Eli willing to change his grip (like Simms) to confront the brutal facts about the wind in Nov-Dec-Jan?
Bob Papa, NFL Network
Didn't dodge it. I told you what Eli is working on. He is a private, low key guy who is not going to hold a press conference to discuss what he does technically. He talked about ways on which he wants to improve. Nobody is more critical of his game than Eli, himself. You just have to trust that he makes whatever adjustments he and the coaches see fit. -
Bob Papa, NFL Network
I want to thank all of you for the great questions. I wish there was more time to get to all of them. I look forward to hearing from you in the future and feel free to call my Sirius NFL Radio show "The Opening Drive" when you get the chance. Have to run. Total Access on NFL Network starts in less than hour. Fun show on tap tonight.
