THE MANSION

I have already said how I feel about preseason football. I don't feel it is even close to a true indicator to measure a team's success. It is mainly importance is for the players to get in the flow of things (playing football) and for players fighting for spots to earn those spots.

But there was an importance to Monday Night's game, the health of Bengal quarterback Carson Palmer.

I just felt sick when Palmer hurt his knee. I still question the hit, even though people say it was legal.

With Palmer himself being cautious during the preseason and questioning if he will be ready, this was an important test. He took some hits and got up and today is not feeling any ill effects from the injury.

This injury normally would take a full year to be truly 100%. Palmer will not be at full strength for much of the season despite what you saw on Monday. The regular season is more difficult than preseaon. I feel the veterans hold back some during preseason games and don't go full out. So it will be interesting to see when he goes at it when the real battle begins.

While Palmer looked good, Packer QB Brett Favre looked terrible. I know, I know it is only preseason, but Favre just made mistakes that seem like he is pressing. If he is pressing during the preseason, how bad will it get for the regular season?

I know Favre has the right to come back. He loves the game of football so much he wanted to come back for another season. But will he enjoy it if the Packers go 4-12 again?

Favre's comments earlier in training camp that this is the best Packers team he has been around shows that he is trying to convince himself that this was not a mistake. By convincing the media and fans, he does not look as bad.

If I were a Packer fan, I expect a long season again and go for near 30 interception for Favre.
After all, he said he felt like he was walking on glass.