QB – Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tony Romo, Ben Roethlisberger, Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler
INJURY WATCH: Ben Roethlisberger(PIT), Donovan McNabb(PHI), Aaron Rodgers(GB), Carson Palmer(CIN), Jon Kitna(DET), Gus Frerotte(MIN), Vince Young(TEN)
Start
Matt Cassel (NEP) – Anytime the Patriots are coming off a BYE and they’re playing a questionable defense, you should pounce, like this week when they play the 49ers. I think Bellichik has his players prepared and rested up for this one and you should see according results. They also have this guy Moss to throw to. I hear he’s open. 250yrds, 2 TD’s, 3 for 25yrds
David Garrard (JAC) – He’s affectionately known as the Steeler killer around these parts. While I don’t think Jacksonville wins this game, I do believe Garrard finds the open space in the zone and connects with his receivers on short and intermediate routes. The run game will struggle despite its past success, and that will leave Garrard as the playmaker in this one. 225yrds, 1 TD, 5 for 40yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) – Hasselbeck is coming out of his BYE and he’s finally getting his main receivers back, but he’s facing a very tough Giants defense that will be in his face all day creating problems. Plus, Branch and Engram won’t play the entire game and the other receivers are suspect at best. With no big name QB’s on BYE this week, you should be able to do better. 225yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
Jon Kitna (DET) – Kitna is coming off an injured knee and is facing the Bears this week. I expect a lot of turnovers and sacks and Kitna might not finish the game. While he has the weapons outside to make plays, the lack of a running game and questionable offensive line play make Kitna a poor choice this week. 200yrds, 2 TD’s, 3 INT’s, 2 FUM
RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Brian Westbrook, Marshawn ####, Larry Johnson, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Marion Barber, Reggie Bush
INJURY WATCH: Adrian Peterson(MIN), Brian Westbrook(PHI), Willie Parker(PIT), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Darren McFadden(OAK), Justin Fargas(OAK), Ahman Green(HOU), Laurence Maroney(NEP), Lamont Jordan(NEP), Maurice Morris(SEA), Rashard Mendenhall(PIT), Chris Perry(CIN), Kenny Watson(CIN)
Start
Steve Slaton (HOU) – I’m on the Slaton bandwagon. After a tough Week 1 against the Steelers, Slaton has racked up the yards on the ground and through the air and scored in each of his last two games. This week he faces a Colts defense that surrenders over 150yrds to opposing backs. Gary Kubiak knows that his best defense this week will be to control the ball and keep Peyton Manning off the field. Slaton is flourishing in the same system that produced all of those Denver 1000yrd backs. 125yrds, 1 TD, 5 for 50yrds, 1 TD
Earnest Graham (TB) – Graham has been an odd cat this year, posting solid numbers through the first four weeks or the season, despite being shutout week 3. If you look at Graham’s numbers though, you’ll see he’s had two big runs late in week’s 2 and 4 that got him his big numbers for those games. With Brian Griese continuing to be generous to the opposing team with his constant turnovers, Graham should be the benefactor of a more conservative approach this week. He also goes up against a Broncos defense that nearly surrendered a 200yrd game last week. 100yrds, 2 TD’s, 2 for 15yrds
Sit
Chris Johnson/Lendale White (TEN) – Difficult to normally sit either of these guys, but I think Tennessee struggles this week at Baltimore. I expect a very physical game, where both teams will grind it out on offense and try to put their defenses and special teams in a position to win the game. Baltimore comes in as the number one defense in the league against the run, and I expect them to leave this week the same. Unless you’re a Steven Jackson owner, I’d stay away this week. 50-60yrds each, 0.50 TD’s each, 2 for 15yrds each
Michael Turner (ATL) – While Turner has been potent through his first four games, I expect the Falcons to stall this week in Green Bay. The Packers will load up against Turner and force Matt Ryan to try and beat them through the air. While he may score once this week, I see yardage very tough to come by as Atlanta will be forced to throw later in the game to try and make up ground. 30-40yrds, 1 TD, 2 for 15yrds
WR – Brandon Marshall, Terrell Owens, Reggie Wayne, Larry Fitzgerald, Greg Jennings, Calvin Johnson, Steve Smith(CAR), T.J. Houshmanzedah
INJURY WATCH: Marques Colston(NO), Anquan Boldin(ARI), Javon Walker(OAK), Reggie Brown(PHI), Kevin Curtis(PHI), Jerry Porter(JAC), Joey Galloway(TBB), Sidney Rice(MIN), Bernard Berrian(MIN), Deion Branch(SEA), Bobby Engram(SEA), Donte Stallworth(CLE), Devin Hester(CHI), David Patten(NO)
Start
Robert Meachem/Lance Moore (NO) – Besides Reggie Bush, there’s no one on the Saints left to throw to for at least the next two weeks. Both Moore and Meachem benefited from the absence of Colston, Shockey and a limited David Patten, and they’ll do the same this Monday Night when the Saints play the Vikings. Not that the Saints run all that much anyway, but this game should see even less. Get those Saints WR’s in your lineup. 5 for 100yrds each, 1 TD each
Matt Jones (JAC) – Jones will benefit from the Steelers aggressive blitzing and soft zone coverage, finding the holes much like Derrick Mason did this past Monday Night. If Garrard gets time to set up in the pocket, Jones should be open in a variety of areas on the field. Jones has also had success against the Steelers smaller cornerbacks in the red-zone, often winning many jump balls. 6 for 85yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Donald Driver (GB) – It’s obvious that the torch has been passed in the Green Bay receiving corp. Driver is getting about half the amount of looks that Jennings is receiving right now and there’s no sure bet that Rodgers will play this week. You’d figure that Driver would benefit from the doubles that roll Jennings way, but that hasn’t been the case. There are some good receivers on BYE this week, but Driver should only be used if you’re in a tight spot. 4 for 40yrds
Andre Johnson (HOU) – I thought you should never sit your studs?!? Hey, these types of calls are why they pay me the big bucks, err… something like that. If you look at what happened last week, you’ll see the reason for this predict. Indianapolis is tops in the league against the pass, (only because they’re last against the run) and Johnson will be paid extra attention this week. Kevin Walter benefited similarly last week, and the Texans are going to run the ball and use short dump offs to keep the pass rush at bay. A touchdown this week, maybe. 3 for 50yrds
TE – Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzalez, Kellen Winslow, Chris Cooley
INJURY WATCH: Tony Gonzalez(KC), Jeremy Shockey(NO), L.J. Smith(PHI), Randy McMichael(STL), Ben Watson(NEP), Leonard Pope(ARI)
Start
Anthony Fasano (MIA) – The TE is the go to receiver in the Miami offense and Fasano has scored in two out of three games this year. They’ve had two weeks to prepare for San Diego, who also happens to give up more catches, yards, and TD’s to TE’s than any other defense in the league. The Chargers will have to focus on stopping Ronnie Brown, leaving Fasano open in the middle of the field. 5 for 75yrds, 1 TD
K – Nick Folk, Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, Rob Bironas, Nate Kaeding, David Akers
Start
Jeff Reed (PIT) – Reed is on the verge of becoming an every week start for fantasy owners. Why? He hasn’t missed a FG yet this season, converting all 7 attempts, including 4 of 40yrds and 1 50yrd. His XP to FG ratio right now is 8-7, which is the minimum you want from your fantasy kicker. I expect Reed to continue to have success as the Steelers offense stalls in field goal range against the tough defenses they face this year. 2 XP’s, 3 FG’s
Carolina Panthers – For the second week in a row I’m touting the Panthers. Though they didn’t create any turnovers last week, they are at home again and will play a Chiefs team that looked a lot better last week than they really are. Look for a low yards and points against and a few turnovers to go along an overall solid performance. There are no high profile defenses on BYE this week, so play your regulars and if you’re a NY Jets defense owner, get the Panthers in there if you need some help. <299 YA, <14 PA, 4 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FUM
QB – Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tony Romo, Ben Roethlisberger, Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler (removed: Tom Brady)
INJURY WATCH: Ben Roethlisberger(PIT), Matt Hasselbeck(SEA)
Start
Aaron Rodgers (GB) – Again, a lot of other QB’s with great match-ups this week, but considering what Philly did last week with less talent and Green Bay’s lackluster ground game, Rodgers once again should be a very solid start. I think this good be another prime-time shoot-out that leaves owners very pleased with the results. 300yrds, 3 TD’s, 20yrds rushing
J.T. O’Sullivan (SF) – There are other QB’s to consider as a start this week, but O’Sullivan has the benefit of Mike Martz behind him when they host the Lions. I think Martz will be a little motivated to stick it to his old team. I expect the 49ers to throw and throw often, making O’Sullivan a very promising play this week. 300yrds, 3 TD’s
Sit
Derek Anderson (CLE) – It doesn’t get any easier this week for Anderson and the Browns when they travel to Baltimore to take on the rejuvenated Ravens defense. Couple that with the Browns anemic offense and that spells disaster. This will be another low scoring affair with turnovers abound, no ground game, and no chance o####ood performance. 175yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
Matt Schaub (HOU) – I expect a similar outing for Schaub close to what happened in week 1. No running game, sacks, pressures, and turnovers. Who knows, maybe having two weeks to prepare for the Titans will make a difference, but I don’t think this team has the talent to protect Schaub and make enough plays to be worth a start this week. 200yrds, 1 TD, 1 INT, I FUM
RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Brian Westbrook, Steven Jackson, Marshawn ####, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Marion Barber, Willie Parker (removed: Larry Johnson, Joseph Addai)
INJURY WATCH: LaDanian Tomlinson(SD), Michael Turner(ATL), Ryan Grant(GB), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Maurice Jones-Drew(JAC), Fred Taylor(JAC), Darren McFadden(OAK), Justin Fargas(OAK), Ahman Green(HOU), Deuce McAllister(NO), Laurence Maroney(NEP), Brandon Jacobs(NYG)
Start
Julius Jones (SEA) – Besides that fact that he’s the only healthy player on the offense left, he gets the Rams in Seattle this week. While there will be passes a plenty, I expect the ‘Hawks to get the ground game going in a big way. It’s something Holmgren has been trying to do for the last two years and has been unsuccessful in his attempts. Jones should also be able to catch some passes coming out of the backfield. I worry slightly that T.J. Duckett will start to steal the goal line carries, so monitor this in the upcoming weeks. 100-125yrds, 3 for 15-30yrds, 2 TD’s
Maurice Jones-Drew/Fred Taylor (JAC) – Check the injury reports to make sure they’re active. If one is out for this week, boost the others numbers, but I expect both will be active and they will be featured this week against the Colts. Jacksonville needs this game and they’re going to use their run game as their best offense AND best defense. With Bob Sanders out for Indy, there should be even more running run against the Colts. 80-100yrds, 3 for 10-20yrds, 1 TD each
Sit
ALL New England RB’s – Until there is some kind of idea of who’s going to be out there, I’m staying away completely. It’s going to change from week to week due to injuries and the “hot runner” theory. Usually in a time share, there is one guy who starts and another who comes in throughout the game. But when you have 4 to 5 backs getting about the same number of touches a game, it’s a fantasy disaster. Grab them, store them on the bench, and let the inevitable injuries decide who will be the guy. 40 Total Yards each, 0.50 TD’s each
Jamal Lewis (CLE) – Lewis makes the Sit list for the second week in a row and I think it’s warranted. This offense is supposed to be a juggernaut, but a brutal opening schedule has derailed the run game as well as the pass. I think will turn things around, but not this week. This will be a very low scoring game and there’s a chance that Cleveland will fail to find the end zone again. 40-50yrds
WR – Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Reggie Wayne, Braylon Edwards, Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Brandon Marshall, Calvin Johnson, Plaxico Burress, Greg Jennings
INJURY WATCH: Marques Colston(NO), Javon Walker(OAK), Reggie Brown(PHI), Kevin Curtis(PHI), Jerry Porter(JAC), Joey Galloway(TBB), Sidney Rice(MIN), Deion Branch(SEA), Bobby Engram(SEA), Donte Stallworth(CLE), Devin Hester(CHI)
Start
Bryant Johnson (SF) – I really don’t like recommending 49er wide outs, but what’s not to like about this match-up. Martz is out to prove something this week and that means balls will be flying all over the field with Johnson be a major benefactor. I think they’re going to try to run up the score, so don’t worry about San Fran getting up big then running. 7 for 125-150yrds, 2 TD’s
Bernard Berrian (MIN) – With Tavaris Jackson finally riding the pine, Berrian will get a chance to supplement Minnesota’s powerful running game. Carolina’s defense has been solid against the run, so I expect some deep balls this week to make it easier for A.P. and company. And you know there’s no one better in the league than catching the deep ball than Berrian. And if by some chance Minnesota gets down, Frerotte can deliver more accurate balls later in games. 4 for 100-125yrds, 1 TD
Sit
ALL Cincinnati WR’s – Talk about floundering expectations, the Bengals are in some trouble and things are no brighter this week as they take on the Defending champs. It’s difficult to catch the ball when your QB is constantly getting blasted around before he gets a chance to throw. The Giants defense is no joke, and they’ll have pressure in Palmer’s face all day, leading to a dismal performance on the outside. 3 for 30-50yrds each
Lee Evans (BUF) – Evans has been a solid performer despite the big play passing game that owners may have been hoping for. Buffalo has also been up in their games and more concerned about controlling and shortening the game. Evans will draw the coverage of one of the better cover guys in the league in Asamwha, couple that with the idea that the Bills will be up in this one and looking to control the clock. I expect a low scoring game for both sides, curbing Evans appeal this week. 4 for 50-60yrds
TE – Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzalez, Kellen Winslow, Chris Cooley
INJURY WATCH: Jason Witten(DAL)
Start
L.J. Smith (PHI) – I expect the Steelers to play a deep Zone with underneath flat coverage to contain Jackson downfield and Westbrook out of the backfield. TE’s have preformed well against the Steelers because they are allowed to run free in front of the Linebackers. 5 for 65yrds, 1 TD
Robert Royal (BUF) – Though Royal disappeared last week, I expect him to bounce back this week. Oakland will concentrate on applying pressure on Edwards and stopping the run game. This opens up the middle perfectly for Royal to exploit with his big body and solid route running skills. The yards probably won’t be spectacular but a TD looks like a good prospect. 4 for 30yrds, 1 TD
K – Nick Folk, Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, Rob Bironas, Nate Kaeding
Start
Matt Prater (DEN) – The Broncos appear to be a high powered team and given their schedule, I’d say Prater has a chance to become a must start every week, especially kicking in Denver where the ball soars for many 50-yarders. Denver is at the mile-high this week against the Saints, who don’t really stop teams that often. Look for a good output this week and potentially every week going forward. 3 FG’s, 3 XP’s
John Kasay (CAR) – Carolina’s offense has played well and now they get Steve Smith back from suspension. They should move the ball between the 20’s nicely, but will probably stall more than often once the field shortens. Kasay has connected on all of his attempts so far and gets to play inside, fee of the weather’s influence. 3 FG’s, 1 XP
Tampa Bay – Chicago’s offense is nothing close to what would even be considered efficient. I’m going to say the Bears DEF will outscore their offense 7-6, so that’ll give them 13 points. I would start with confidence as the yardage against will also be on the low side. 13-16 PA, <250YA, 3 sacks, 1 INT, 2 FUM
Atlanta Falcons – A spot start here and a promising outlook for this unit for the coming weeks. They’ve played well enough to keep the team in the games and they are at home this week against the worst team in the league in the Chiefs. Someone named Thigpen is going to start for them this week, and Larry Johnson has all but had it with his coaches and the play calling. Look for Atlanta to take advantage of all these things and produce some nice numbers. 6-13 PA, <225YA, 4 sacks, 1 INT
QB – Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tony Romo, Ben Roethlisberger, Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler (removed: Tom Brady)
Start
Eli Manning (NYG) @ St. Louis – I’m not sold on Eli’s consistency yet, and if your league penalizes for INT’s, he’s always going to be a bit of a risk. Not this week. The Rams will be forced to load eight men into the box to stop the run, allowing Manning to find the one-on-one receiver down field. 250yrds, 2 TD’s
Damon Huard (KC) vs. Oakland – Huard will start this week for the injured Brodi Croyle, increasing the value of KC’s receivers. The Chiefs will feature a heavy dose of Larry Johnson on the ground, bringing the safeties up, allowing Huard to go over the top for the big play. 225yrds, 2 TD’s
Sit
Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) vs. San Francisco – Hasselbeck is hurt, he has no receivers to throw to, and has no ground game to take the pressure off him. Even against a bad 49ers team, Hasselbeck must be benched until he gets some receivers back or Seattle signs a veteran to come in and play. Even then it’s going to take a little time for them to get acclimated. 175yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s
Carson Palmer (CIN) vs. Tennessee – Palmer was bad against Baltimore. Tennessee has arguably a better defense. The Bengal’s offense is out of synch, they have no running game to speak of, and they won’t be on the field all that often with the Titans ball control offense. Palmer may pick up some points in garbage time after the game is out of reach, but I’m expecting another long day. 225yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s
RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Brian Westbrook, Steven Jackson, Marshawn ####, Larry Johnson, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Marion Barber, Willie Parker (removed: Joseph Addai)
Start
Chris Johnson/Lendale White (TEN) vs. Cincinnati – It’s no surprise what Tennessee is going to do on offense. I expect Johnson to continue to start and White to come in to later to pound the ball. This kind of combination worked perfect for White at USC, and I don’t see why it’s not going to continue to work. The Titans defense will provide many a short field that these backs will feast upon. 75-100yrds, 15-25yrds, 1 TD each
Thomas Jones (NYJ) vs. New England – I think the Jets will be able to control the ball, the clock, and the game, and wear down the Patriots aging defense. After Favre loosens up the secondary, Jones will have the ability to run through some big holes created by that solid Jets O-Line. 100yrds, 25yrds, 2 TD’s
Sit
Joseph Addai (IND) @ Minnesota – I’m not even sure Addai is going to play this week, but I would recommend benching him anyway. The Colts offense is struggling and Minnesota’s Defense is just as good as Chicago’s, if not better. If he plays, he may catch a few passes, but even that prospect shouldn’t be enticing enough to pull the trigger on him. Wait until you see him play a whole game and be productive before reinserting him into your lineup. 40-50yrds, 15yrds
Jamal Lewis (CLE) vs. Pittsburgh – The Browns offense is facing similar disfunctionality and the Steeler defense is in mid-season form, creating pressure, sacks, and turnovers. If you couple that with Lewis’ poor history against Pittsburgh and a lingering injury, Lewis becomes a very unfavorable option. I wasn’t high on Lewis this year because of the schedule and until he proves he’s ready, I’d stay away. 40-50yrds, 10yrds, 1 FUM
WR – Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Reggie Wayne, Braylon Edwards, Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Brandon Marshall, Calvin Johnson, Plaxico Burress, Greg Jennings (removed: Marques Colston)
Start
Hines Ward/Santonio Holmes (PIT) – Based on what happened last week, the Steeler receivers are must starts this week. The Cleveland secondary gave up big plays last week to similarly explosive offense and the Steelers appear to be in top form. This is a prime-time game Sunday Night where the Steelers seem to thrive. 70-80yrds, 1 TD each
Ronald Curry (OAK) – Curry is the only viable receiving threat on this team, even if or when Javon Walker comes back from his injury. The Oakland running game should be the feature for the season, but they’re going to be behind a lot and need to throw. Curry will be the guy this week. 80yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Torry Holt (STL) – I know he’s usually Mr. Reliable, but there’s nobody else to throw to on this team and defenses know that. Holt is getting older. Pair that with nagging injury problems and you get a receiver who’s lost a step or two. The Rams are at home this week, but the Giants defense, especially their pass rush, will have Bulger on his back early and often. Look for short dump offs to try and offset the rush. 4 rec, 50yrds
Wes Welker (NEP) – I don’t think Welker is going to be a factor this year with Brady out. It’s very difficult to hit those timing patterns that Welker and Brady were so good at. I’m holding off on Welker until I see Cassell start to put some numbers up. 5 rec, 40yrds
TE – Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzalez, Kellen Winslow
Start
Randy McMichael (STL) – The offense is designed to get him the ball and that showed last week as he caught 5 passes for over 70yrds. Expect Bulger to continue to get him the ball as defenses concentrate on shutting down Holt and Jackson. 60yrds, 1 TD
Anthony Fasano (MIA) – In an offense where the QB can’t throw the ball downfield, the TE is a perfect option for quick hitters over the middle and short dump-offs to the outside. Miami will struggle this year, that’s not surprising anybody. Pennington is a very efficient QB that won’t force the ball and he’ll take what the defense gives him. He has the accuracy to hit his receivers in stride, making yards after the catch a benefit to fantasy owners. 60yrds, 1 TD
K – Nick Folk, Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, Rob Bironas, Nate Kaeding
Start
Jeff Reed (PIT) – If you haven’t realized already, Pittsburgh is going to put up points this year and Reed has the power and accuracy to convert those drives that will stall against the better defenses they will play on their schedule. Also, if Pittsburgh’s up big late in games, they tend to run the clock out and kick field goals. 3 FG’s, 3 XP’s
Jason Elam (ATL) – I’m endorsing the king of the 50-yarder this week. Elam continues to prove, that despite his age, he is still among the best at draining those long field goals that fantasy owners covet from their kickers. He’s now playing indoors, and Atlanta may not be that bad, especially with such a potent rushing attack. 3 FG’s, 2 XP’s
DEF – Vikings, Bears, Chargers, Patriots, Cowboys
Start
Arizona Cardinals – The Cardinals are home this week and will face one of the worst five teams. Without a threat of the long-ball, the Cardinals defense will be able to creep up to shut down the run, while applying pressure with the front seven. While there might not be a lot of turnovers this week, expect a good number of sacks and low points and yardage surrendered.
13 PA, <299yrds, 4 Sacks, 1 FUM
Tennessee Titans – The Cincinnati offense is in disarray with no semblance of a running game. The Titans will be able to focus on applying pressure on the QB and forcing the turn-over prone Palmer into making more mistakes. 17 PA, <299yrds, 2 Sacks, 2 INT, 1 FUM
Dallas Cowboys (1-0). Last: WON 28-10 @ Cleveland Browns Next: vs. Philadelphia (1-0) (Monday Night). What’s not to like about the Cowboys. They were efficient on offense and smothering on defense, holding the supposedly “high-powered” Browns offense in check all game. Marion Barber left the game earlier, and that’s a concern, but they are the clear favorites to come out of NFC. I’m looking at this week’s game as a potential NFC Championship game preview.
Pittsburgh Steelers (1-0). Last: WON 38-17 vs. Houston Texans. Next: @ Cleveland (0-1) (Sunday Night). Yes, this may be a little high, but was there a more dominating victory this past weekend? (Hold that thought until the #3 team). This is a huge divisional game for the Steelers considering the schedule to come. If the defense can maintain this pace for the season, the schedule may not matter considering San Diego, Indianapolis, and Jacksonville all looked bad in losing their first games. This week will be a more accurate portrayal of where this team is.
Philadelphia Eagles (1-0). Last: WON 38-3 vs. St. Louis Rams. Next: @ Dallas (1-0) (Monday Night). Okay, here’s the answer to the question above. Donovan McNabb will be in the running for MVP if he can stay healthy, which is always a concern. DeSean Jackson should be starting regardless of who else they may have at WR. He’s the biggest little man in the league. They travel to Dallas this week, so we’ll see how good this team really is. I think Brian Westbrook will need to be more involved for the Eagles to be able to pull the upset.
Buffalo Bills (1-0). Last: WON 34-10 vs. Seattle Seahawks. Next: @ Jacksonville (0-1). I’m putting Buffalo up there with the impressive win group this week. I know Seattle has like 10 injured receivers, but the defense was supposed to be the strong point for that team. The Bills scored every which way conceivable in this game and their defense thoroughly frustrated the Seattle offense. With Brady being out for the season, the AFC East is Buffalo’s for the taking. A strong run game, a QB that manages the game, and a defense that dominates; these are the core ingredients to a playoff team.
New York Giants (1-0). Last: WON 16-7 vs. Washington Redskins. Next: @ St. Louis (0-1). The defending Super Bowl champs deserve a little respect I think. While I don’t think they’ll be this high later in the season, the defense showed me that it can overcome some major losses and still perform at a high caliber level. I still believe Eli Manning is overrated, and the schedule will make it tough to get back to the playoffs this year. The Giants are missing the ingredient of QB as a game manager, and that will ultimately be their downfall this year.
New Orleans Saints (1-0). Last: WON 24-20 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Next: @ Washington (0-1). Love the Saints. This was one of harder games on the schedule for them, a divisional no less and they hung in there, made plays when they needed, and came away with a big victory. Drew Brees is going to lead the league in all passing categories this year, so get used to seeing him at the top of the weekly statistics boards. The defense will be the break point for how far this team can go this season. They made a lot of free agents moves this year, and I see them paying off. They need to establish more of a running game though, to keep other defenses off balance.
Green Bay Packers (1-0). Last: WON 24-19 vs. Minnesota Vikings. Next: @ Detroit Lions (0-1). The Packers squeaked by the Vikings this past Monday Night, but that’s a bad thing. Aaron Rogers was very efficient throughout the game, accounting for two TD’s. The defense “held” A.P. to just over 100yrds and a TD and played a bend but don’t break style that lead to field goals early for the Vikings. The Packers are in control and the team to beat in the NFC North.
New England Patriots (1-0). Last: WON 17-10 vs. Kansas City Chiefs. Next: @ NY Jets (1-0). I have a word for you all to look up in the dictionary, Karma. And while I’ll never root for anyone to be injured, let’s just say I won’t lose any sleep over what happened. The Patriots are finished and that’s a fact. They should have lost to the Chiefs who are easily one of, if not the worst team in the league. Who knows, maybe the Pats bring in a veteran QB who leads them back to the Super Bowl. Maybe they stick with their next system quarterback and see what happens. The bigger question: How long before Randy Moss implodes? Karma.
San Diego Chargers (0-1). Last: LOST 24-26 vs. Carolina Panthers. Next: @ Denver (0-0). They lost, probably should have won. A last second TD pass to lose the game stings, but not being able to shut down a Steve Smith-less Carolina offense stings even more. It was nice to see San Diego throw to someone other than their TE. Speaking of which, the injury there won’t hurt the team as bad as most people think it will. If Shawn Merriman can’t play, that’s a different story. Philip Rivers looked good, L.T., not so good.
Indianapolis Colts (0-1). Last: LOST 13-29 vs. Chicago Bears. Next: @ Minnesota (0-0). They lost, and deserved to lose. It just goes to show how important the QB position is in the NFL. New England will prove that point in the upcoming weeks, and Peyton Manning’s injured knee proved it this past week. Not being able to stop the run will also lead to a healthy beat-down as well. It doesn’t get much easier for the Colts in the coming weeks and Manning needs to develop that timing with his receivers to get Indy back on track.
Chicago Bears (1-0). Last: WON 29-13 @ Indianapolis Colts. Next: @ Carolina (1-0). Yes, I know they beat the Colts, and yes they’re still behind them in the power rankings, get over it, it’s my column. Look, I’m not discounting the Bears, I just think that Indy is a better team overall and will finish with a better record in a harder conference. The Bears look like they’ve got that ferocious defense back and the run game looked as good as it’s been in past years. While I don’t think Kyle Orton is the answer, as long as he doesn’t lose games for them, he’ll be serviceable enough to push for a Wild Card spot.
Carolina Panthers (1-0). Last: Won 26-24 @ San Diego Chargers. Next: vs. Chicago (1-0). It’s the same deal here people. Carolina is good, but I’m still not sold on just how good they’re going to be. They’ll get a chance to prove it this week against the Bears. I like Carolina’s defense and I think it’s better than most people believe, but Philip Rivers should not be able to throw all over you. A healthy Jake Delhomme is the deal breaker here. If he’s healthy, he has the weapons around him to challenge New Orleans in the NFC South.
Tennessee Titans (1-0). Last: WON 17-10 vs. Jacksonville Jaguars. Next: @ Cincinnati (0-1). I’m still not sure what to think of the Titans. Vince Young is out 2 to 4 weeks, but I don’t that hurts the team. Collins is a much more accomplished passer, and that’s what this team needs. We know they can run the ball, but what happens if they get behind in a game. The defense is solid again and should carry this team as it did by shutting down a potent Jaguars rushing attack.
Minnesota Vikings (0-1). Last: LOST @ Green Bay 19-24. Next: vs. Indianapolis (0-1). The Vikings came out on the short end of their key Monday Night divisional match up. We knew if was going to be a difficult game for them and winning in Green Bay isn’t easy for anyone. The Vikings will need to get better play at the QB position and to Jackson’s credit; he performed much better later in the game than at the onset. Adrian Peterson looks poised for another big year as long as he remains healthy, something he hasn’t been able to do since his freshman year of college.
Jacksonville Jaguars (0-1). Last: LOST 10-17 @ Tennessee. Next: vs. Buffalo (1-0). I don’t think this team is as bad as they looked this past week, but I could be proved wrong this week when the Bills visit town. The defense did what it could, holding the Titans ground game in check most of the day, but they were on the field way too much to be successful. The offense failed to control the ball, and couldn’t sustain any kind of consistency. Speaking of which, their Kicker needs to find some. An NFL kicker should not be missing field goals under 40yrds.
Atlanta Falcons (1-0). Last: WON 34-21 vs. Detroit Lions. Next: @ Tampa Bay (0-1). Okay, so this may be a one week thing, but I think the Falcons need to be shown some props given what’s happened to the organization over the past two years or so. Is Michael Turner a stud or what? Yeah it was against the Lions, but anytime you run for over 200yrds in the NFL, that’s special. Can he do it every week, I don’t know. While I don’t think Atlanta is in a position to contend yet, they’re still going to make some noise this year and upset some good teams.
Okay, Week 14 is complete, leaving us only three more weeks until the playoffs begin. At this point in the season, some teams have packed it in, while others are in dog-fights to grab the few precious remaining playoff spots that are left. I have to say this may have been the best weekend for officials in a while. While watching this past week's games, there wasn't a whole bunch that jumped out at me to cause major alarm and send fans into a raving crazy. Still, the NFL should make it a point to employ their Officials in a full time status. I'm pretty sure the NFL is the only major sport profession that does not have full time Refs. By making this happen, you ensure that the NFL officials are focusing on nothing but the NFL and its rules. I'd have to think that it's tough for an Official to spend all off season working in an insurance company let's say, then be expected to come into a season and be in top form throughout the year. With any job, you need to have constant repetition to learn and correct mistakes within your profession. By exposing these guys to football all year round, you keep them fresh and alert to everything that's happening around them. That said, on to this week's review...
HIGHS
The Minnesota Vikings look pretty unstoppable right now. Okay, so they did play the 49ers this past week and they're probably the worst team in the NFL, but the Vikings dominated every aspect of the game and even knocked out the opposing QB. Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson make quite the RB tandem. If teams works on shutting one guy down, the other guy just runs wild. Add in the fact that the defense is one of the most dominant in the league, and the young QB is becoming more comfortable in the offense, and you got a recipe for success. Barring a total collapse this team is headed to the playoffs.
LOWS
The Steelers didn't look as good as I thought they would against the Patriots. The game was tight in the 1st Half, but things got away from them in the 2nd half. It all started on the Steelers 1st drive when Roethlisberger got a little impatient on a second down play and threw to the flat for minimal yards. Had he waited another two seconds, he would have found a WR wide open in the back of the end zone. We got a field goal out of that drive. Fast-forward to the 2nd half. The Steelers get the ball and do nothing, not good. The Patriots then counter with perhaps the ugliest trick play in the history of the NFL. Brady one-hops a backward pass to Moss who then throws a pass that a six year old girl would be ashamed of, back to Brady. The ball is barely caught over the defenders hand, touchdown and eleven point lead. No big deal because there's so much time left. The Steelers get the ball, march right down the field and face a 3rd & goal from the Patriots 1/2 yrd line. First off, if Ben looks left he'd see that no one has decided to cover Holmes initially!!! Harrison eventually waddles out to cover him and the ball is snapped. Then there was a chance to throw penalty flags when 1. Harrison illegally contacts Holmes after the 5yrd zone, 2. Harrison has a hold of Holmes jersey while the ball is in the air; the definition of defensive holding, 3. Harrison does not play the ball, but instead illegally face-guards the receiver, not a single flag was thrown. In the Baltimore game last week there was far less going on when they through the flag on the Ravens for defensive holding on 4th & 5 in the end zone. The Steelers were stuffed on 4th down and the game was over. All I'm saying is that if we could have a little bit of consistency, it would make all the difference. This week, the refs let the players decide. Last week, they decided the game for the players.
The Atlanta Falcons are an organization in complete disarray. Ron Mexico get sentenced to 2yrs in prison for his dog issues, the team gets blasted on Monday night by the Saints, then the head coach promptly resigns only to accept the Arkansas Head Coach the next day. WOW, what a weekend for this organization. What's sad is that the Falcons are a good clean organization that has excellent people running the show. It's a shame that they have to endure this kind of disrespect their employees are showing them. I expect this team to be completely turned over in the off-season starting with DeAngelo Hall, Alge Crumpler, and Warrick Dunn. Not that there's anything wrong with Dunn, but it's time to let Norwood be the guy and get younger. They need to get a Defensive minded coach who will overhaul the defense first, then work on the offensive line. They also need a QB, because Harrington, Leftwhich, and Redman are not long term prospects. They will get a high draft pick this coming year and should be able to grab either Matt Ryan, Bryan Brohm, or they could even trade down, pick up some more draft picks and grab Andre Woodson.
