BYE WEEK: Buffalo, Kansas City, Pittsburgh, Tennessee
QB – Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tony Romo, Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler, Kurt Warner
INJURY WATCH: Aaron Rodgers(GB), Carson Palmer(CIN), Matt Hasselbeck(SEA), Matt Schaub(HOU), Jon Kitna(DET), Brian Griese(TB), Gus Frerotte(MIN)
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Brett Favre(NYJ) – Okay, so I doubt Favre will throw for six touchdown passes this week, but anything is possible with him. Still, he needs to be in your lineup this week against Cincinnati. While the Bengals haven’t been terrible against the pass, they’re still very young and vulnerable. The Jets have had two full weeks to prepare for this game and they are at home, two things that will be a key ingredient in their success this week. 17 of 28 275yrds, 2 TD’s
Jason Campbell(WAS) – I’m gonna go out on a limb with this one and say that Campbell continues his efficient fantasy scoring this week. This will be a run first offense and St. Louis will prepare to slow that down. With constant safety help being moved into the box, Campbell will find one-on-one coverage all day, and his receivers know how to get open and make plays. You should also see a couple of deep balls thrown off the play-action and some scoring as the result. 16 of 22 250yrds, 2 TD’s, 20yrds rush
Sit
Philip Rivers(SD) – While Rivers started the season very strong, there’s been a drop-off with each passing week in his performance. Attribute that to what you will, but I don’t see things getting better. Tomlinson, Gates, and Chambers are all ####ed up, leaving Rivers with Sproles and Vincent Jackson maybe? That doesn’t seem like it’s going to be enough to be successful against a Patriots defense that is looking to redeem its past two pitiful outings. 13 of 25 175yrds, 1 TD, 1 INT, 1 FUM
Derek Anderson(CLE) – Hopefully Anderson used the BYE week to get better prepared and work out the timing issues with his receivers. The thing holding the Browns back is coaching, lets be honest. The Browns will struggle as long as Romeo remains. This week, Anderson will struggle against a Giants defense that is second in scoring defense in the league. You should be able to find a better quarterback this week. 200yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT, 1 FUM
RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Brian Westbrook, Steven Jackson, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Marion Barber, Reggie Bush, Michael Turner, Ronnie Brown
INJURY WATCH: LaDanian Tomlinson(SD), Brian Westbrook(PHI), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Darren McFadden(OAK), Maurice Jones-Drew(JAC), Chris Perry (CIN), Justin Fargas(OAK), Ahman Green(HOU), Laurence Maroney(NEP), Lamont Jordan(NEP), Maurice Morris(SEA)
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Brandon Jacobs(NYG) – Jacobs seems to only be playing one half of his games, but still managing to rack up monster numbers. Expect similar things this Monday Night as Jacobs travels to Cleveland to face the beleaguered Browns. Again, he may only play a little into the second half due to the RB depth of the Giants, but look for numbers regardless as the Giants pound away at the weak Cleveland front seven. 125yrds, 2 TD’s, 2 for 10yrds
Ryan Grant(GB) – I think this is the week Grant finally gets things going. I don’t anticipate the Pack being down or out of this one at any point and they need to get the run game established to pose a more balanced threat to opposing defenses. One dimensional teams, what the Packers have been to this point, usually don’t go far, and I think that’s shown through the first five weeks. 100yrds, 1 TD, 2 for 15yrds
Sit
Joseph Addai(IND) – Difficult to sit a Top 7 draft pick, but let’s be realistic, the Colts play the Ravens this week and the game plan will be to attack through the air. While Addai may catch a bunch of passes, the Raven defense will limit the featured back in this one. Some key RB’s are on BYE this week, so play Addai if you must, but don’t expect numbers better than what a #3 RB would produce. 30-40yrds, 5 for 30-40yrds, 1 FUM
DeAngelo Williams(CAR) – Yes, he lead all players in fantasy points last week and the Carolina offense seems to be firing on all cylinders, but it’s all more the reason to sit him this week. Tampa Bay’s defense is built to handle smaller, quicker backs and Williams fits that mold to a T. I think Carolina’s other back will shine this week, so curb your expectation for Williams. 55yrds, 3 for 20yrds
WR – Brandon Marshall, Terrell Owens, Reggie Wayne, Larry Fitzgerald, Greg Jennings, Calvin Johnson, Steve Smith(CAR), T.J. Houshmanzedah, Andre Johnson, Plaxico Burress
INJURY WATCH: Marques Colston(NO), Anquan Boldin(ARI), Roy Williams(DET), Calvin Johnson(DET), Derrick Mason(BAL), Deion Branch(SEA), Eddie Royal(DEN), Anthony Gonzalez(IND), Javon Walker(OAK), Kevin Curtis(PHI), Jerry Porter(JAC), Reggie Williams(JAC), Joey Galloway(TBB), Sidney Rice(MIN), Darrell Jackson(DEN), Donte Stallworth(CLE), Devin Hester(CHI), Brandon Lloyd(CHI), David Patten(NO)
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Santana Moss(WAS) – Though Moss was shutout last week, he continues to be an integral part of the Washington offense. I expect him to bounce back this week against the Rams. Although the Skins will pound the ball with Portis, Moss has the ability to get open anywhere on the field to make plays, including the deep ball that might fly his why once or twice this week. 6 for 115yrds, 1 TD
Bobby Engram(SEA) – Engram played his first game of the season and produced nicely for being out for such a long time. He’s been Hasselbeck’s main target for the past couple of seasons and that’s not something that’s gonna change considering there’s nobody left on the team to throw to, possibly even Deion Branch who suffered another injury. I expect Engram to be the go to guy this week as Seattle could struggle to move the ball on the ground and may end up in a shootout. And let’s face it, they want to throw the ball anyway. 6 for 100yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Torry Holt(STL) – Holt will not benefit from the coaching change and it’s unfortunate. There’s even rumors flying that he’ll be traded and that might be the best thing for him right now. Considering that teams only have to worry about Steven Jackson for about the first quarter and half, Holt is the only other player that can really hurt defenses, so guess where the coverage constantly rolls. Washington will have Bulger scrambling for his life all day, and Holt will be left running routes without much purpose, ouch. 4 for 50yrds
Chad Ocho Cinco #85(CIN) – The Jets defense has been very underrated so far this season and I think that will hurt the Cincinnati offense, especially #85. He hasn’t really done much so far this season, his longest catch barley touching 25yrds. The Bengals should deplore much more o####round game this week with Benson, limiting passes down field. When they do drop back to pass, the offensive line hasn’t been much more than paper mache’, and that spells trouble for an ailing quarterback and his receivers. 5 for 50yrds
TE – Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Kellen Winslow, Chris Cooley
INJURY WATCH: Antonio Gates(SD), Kellen Winslow(CLE), Tony Scheffler(DEN), Jeremy Shockey(NO), L.J. Smith(PHI), Randy McMichael(STL), Ben Watson(NEP), Leonard Pope(ARI)
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Greg Olsen(CHI) – Olsen has clearly passed Desmond Clark on the depth chart, and his recent numbers confirm it. The Chicago receivers are ####ed up and inconsistent, leaving Olsen a reliable option for Orton underneath and in the flats. Chicago likes to throw to the backs and tight-ends when they get near the red-zone and the field shrinks. Olsen should be a strong performer against Atlanta this week. 60yrds, 1 TD
K – Nick Folk, Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, Nate Kaeding, David Akers, Robbie Gould
INJURY WATCH: Stephen Gostkowski(NEP), Lawrence Tynes(NYG), Mike Nugent(NYJ)
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Josh Scobee(JAC) – I think the Jaguars will be able to move the ball consistently against the Denver defense, but may have trouble scoring touchdowns. Scobee has the power to convert 50yrd field goals and the thin air of the Mile-High should afford him at least one opportunity for such. Jacksonville will be desperate, but I think they’ll take their chances at points this week rather than passing up opportunities like they did last week. 4 FG’s, 2 XP’s
DEF – Vikings, Bears, Ravens, Eagles, Giants
INJURY WATCH:Baltimore (Kelly Gregg-NT, Samari Rolle-CB), Minnesota (Erin Henderson-LB, Madieu Williams-S), Chicago (Charles Tillman-CB, Nathan Vasher-CB), Tampa Bay (Derrick Brooks-LB, Barrett Ruud-LB), Indianapolis (Bob Sanders-SS, Dwight Freeney-DE), Green Bay (Al Harris-CB, Charles Woodson-CB), Dallas (Terence Newman-CB, Tank Williams-DT), Jacksonville (Reggie Nelson-S, Drayton Florence-CB), Washington (Jason Taylor-DE, Shawn Springs-CB), Arizona (Bertrand Berry-DE, Eric Green-CB),
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Washington Redskins – Call me crazy, but given the way the Redskins have performed against the high powered offenses of Dallas and Philly, St. Louis should be a push over. The Rams offensive line is suspect at best, so once Steven Jackson is contained and the Skins move out to a big lead, there will be a lot of pressure on the QB as the Rams try to play catch up. That will lead to the inevitable turnovers and sacks that the Rams seem to be so generous with. <300 YA, <17 PA, 5 sacks, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
(2)New York Giants (4-0). Last: WON 44-6 vs. Seattle Seahawks. Next: @ Cleveland (1-3) (Monday Night). I think the Giants sent a little message to Mr. Burress this week. It probably read something like, “Hey if we’re not important enough to help you, we don’t need you to help us. Get on the bus or we’ll leave you standing at your stop.” Okay, it probably wasn’t anything like that, but you get the point. The Giants look good no matter who’s in there. Other teams should make a note of that.
(3)Dallas Cowboys (4-1). Last: WON 31-22 vs. Cincinnati Bengals. Next: @ Arizona (2-2). Is it me or does it seem like Dallas plays every game at home? Yes I know it only seems that way, whatever. I’m wondering when Dallas will play a better team again. Not this week, as they head to Arizona to play the Jeckel-and-Hyde Cardinals. We’ll see which Cardinals team shows up, but me thinks it will be the team that gives up 35pts early and scrambles to try and recover late when the game’s already over. ####-hum.
(4)Tennessee Titans (5-0). Last: WON 16-13 @ Baltimore Ravens. Next: BYE. You want to talk about an ugly game, man this one was bad. Sure the defenses are great and that was the focal point of the game, but it showed that the Titans are for real when you can win on the road against such a strong defense. Vince Young should be ready to return after this weeks BYE, but I think Tennessee sticks with Collins until things go south. Also, It’s nice to see Alge Crumpler finally get some action, where’s he been all season?
(5)Pittsburgh Steelers (4-1). Last: WON 26-21 @ Jacksonville Jaguars. Next: BYE. The Steelers finally won a game they weren’t supposed to win. They needed this one bad, because after their BYE this week they play Cincinnati then the schedule gets brutal, with games against Washington, Dallas, Indianapolis, San Diego, and New England, are you kidding me!?! The good news is, they should be closed to fully healed after getting this week off, and boy did they need it.
(7)Carolina Panthers (4-1). Last: WON 34-0 vs. Kansas City Chiefs. Next: @ Tampa Bay (3-2). Carolina continues to win in impressive fashion, albeit was against the hapless Chiefs this week, but it’s still impressive when you shut out another team. First place in the NFC South is up for grabs this week when the Panthers travel to Tampa Bay. I’m wondering which Tampa offense will show up this week and which Carolina run defense will do the same. That should be the determiner in this one.
(9)Denver Broncos (4-1). Last: WON 16-13 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Next: vs. Jacksonville (2-3). Denver was surprising this past week in how well the run defense played. That ultimately was the winning factor in that game and good thing, because the offense struggled to do anything, scoring one touchdown. They’ll be tested again this week when they travel to Jacksonville; a team that is desperate for a win in the conference to keep pace in the playoff race. Denver should be able to move the ball through the air and I look for Brandon Marshall to get things going after a down week.
(1)Buffalo Bills (4-1). Last: LOST 17-41 @ Arizona Cardinals. Next: BYE. The fall from the top is a mighty one, but can you blame me, that was a terrible performance from the Bills. Okay, do Edwards was knocked out of the game early, but he doesn’t play on the defense. You’d think the Bills would follow what the Jets did last week on offense, but I suppose the cardinals made the adjustments necessary to handle that. A well deserved rest will do any team good and the Bills will welcome the time off. However, that’s a long time to dwell on such a smack down.
(16)Washington Redskins (4-1). Last: WON 23-17 @ Philadelphia Eagles. Next: vs. St. Louis (0-4). As promised, the Redskins skyrocket up the ranks this week with another strong divisional road win. The defense has been fantastic through this stretch of victories and the offense has been efficient, finding different ways to beat teams. They get a nice home game against the Rams this week and I expect the Skins to continue to fire on all cylinders with a heavy dose of Portis and a smothering defensive game plan.
(11)Indianapolis Colts (2-2). Last: WON 31-27 @ Houston Texans. Next: vs. Baltimore (2-2). Give the Colts credit, they’ve found ways to win games they have no business even being in. Case in point this past week when the Texans basically just handed them the game in the fourth quarter. I don’t think the better teams they will have to play coming up will be so generous, Baltimore this week being one of them. The Colts better fix things quick because games against the Packers, Titans, Patriots, and Steelers follow this one. Ouch.
(6)Philadelphia Eagles (2-3). Last: LOST 17-23 vs. Washington Redskins. Next: @ San Francisco (2-3). I feel divided by the Eagles ups and downs threw the first five games of the season. One week they look unbeatable, the next they look like a sub-five hundred team with no chemistry or desire. Brian Westbrook’s injuries may have something to do with that, but he’s merely one player on a 53 man roster. How will his ribs hold up this week against those 49er linebackers? I don’t want to say that’s the deciding factor, but will it be?
(14)New England Patriots (3-1). Last: WON 30-21 @ San Francisco 49ers. Next: @ San Diego (2-3) (Sunday Night). Okay, we finally get to see how the Patriots will fare against a good team. They’ve decided to stay on the West Coast this week, traveling south to San Diego after playing in San Francisco this past week. There’s mixed opinions on this strategy. There’s a saying about idle hands and the Patriots will not the normalcy and familiarity of preparing for a game, the time off, the travel and so on. We’ll see how that affects the team’s performance. Not having to face L.T. might be a bigger factor though.
(15)Chicago Bears (3-2). Last: WON 37-7 @ Detroit Lions. Next: @ Atlanta (3-2). So the Bears easily dispatched the Lions this past week, but who hasn’t. Hey, I’m not a hater, I’m just saying. The defense will be pressed to shut down Mr. Turner, something that other teams have had trouble with so far this year. You know the Falcons will be pumped up for this one, so we’ll see if the Bears can match that intensity. Kyle Orton’s consistency will be counted on again this week, and I have a feeling he’ll deliver.
(8)Green Bay Packers (2-3). Last: LOST 24-27 vs. Atlanta Falcons. Next: @ Seattle (1-3). The Packers started strong and have now dropped a bunch of games. I thought it might have been Aaron Rodgers this past week, but now I’m putting things on the defense. I know there’ve been a lot of injuries, but that the nature of the game. Other teams are dealing with the same issues but are maintaining the same level of play from their backups. It’s time for this defense to step up and make some plays. The secondary will need to contain Seattle’s passing attack, which will be in full force this week with the return of Engram and possibly Branch.
(10)San Diego Chargers (2-3). Last: LOST 10-17 @ Miami Dolphins. Next: vs. New England (3-1) (Sunday Night). How often do you see L.T. get stuffed at the goal line? Not that often. In fact, I don’t think I remember the last time it happened. He’s obviously hurt, and that’s okay, so is everyone else. But if you can’t play or your play is going to limit the team, you should pull yourself out of the game. I know, easier said than done with these guys, but you have to put pride on the side. So New England comes to town this week and the Chargers need this game.
(12)New Orleans Saints (2-3). Last: LOST 27-30 vs. Minnesota Vikings. Next: vs. Oakland (1-3). I’m getting really tired of the Saints. Please, get your team on the same damn page and win these games. I’m sure the Saints are tired of their kicker not winning games for them. Will we see a new kicker this week; the answer is yes, with Martin Gramatica hitting the IR. Drew Brees can only take this team so far. Other people need to step things up. This team is quickly becoming the most under performing unit in the league.
(13)Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2). Last: LOST 13-16 @ Denver Broncos. Next: vs. Carolina (4-1). I’m not sure how Tampa Bay didn’t beat Denver this past week. Or wait a minute, maybe I do know. This whole running back by committee thing is hurting Tampa’s offense. Earnest Graham is the kind of runner that gets into a rhythm, getting better as he gets more carries. When he gets subbed out for Warrick Dunn, he loses his rhythm and doesn’t perform as well. Yes, I know Dunn is producing, but he’s not the answer. John Gruden is supposed to be this offensive mastermind, really? I haven’t seen it this year. Give the ball to Graham 25 times a game!
Dropped Out: NA
On the Verge: Atlanta (3-2), Miami (2-2)
Bottom Feeders: 32.Detroit Lions, 31. St. Louis Rams, 30. Cincinnati Bengals
(2)Buffalo Bills (4-0). Last: WON 31-14 @ St. Louis Rams. Next: @ Arizona (2-2). You can’t blame a team for the schedule they play. Winning games in the NFL is difficult, just ask the Broncos. Buffalo has a strong lead in the AFC East and the schedule isn’t going to get any harder. As long as they keep their key players healthy and continue to play great defense, they should have no problem winning twelve or thirteen games this year.
(3)New York Giants (3-0). Last: BYE. Next: vs. Seattle (1-2). The Giants will be without Plaxico Burress this week when they play the Seahawks. I don’t think it will be a big deal, as the Giants are very deep at the offensive skill positions. Both teams are coming off their BYE weeks, so they’ve had equal time to prepare for each other. The Giants will have to play excellent defense in the secondary as both Engram and Branch are expected back this week.
(1)Dallas Cowboys (3-1). Last: LOST 24-26 vs. Washington Redskins. Next: vs. Cincinnati (0-4). Divisional games are very tough to win. You play these teams so often that record is always thrown out when these games come around. Dallas was unable to get any kind of ground game started, allowing Washington to concentrate on stopping the pass. Anytime a team becomes one-dimensional, the results are usually unfavorable.
(7)Tennessee Titans (4-0). Last: WON 30-17 vs. Minnesota Vikings Next: @ Baltimore (2-1). The Titans continue to roll along, winning games and scoring in bunches. The offense will be tested yet again when they travel to Baltimore this week to face the league’s number one defense. You have to try and establish a run game against the Ravens to draw the safeties up; the corners are not that good. Kerry Collins will face his toughest challenge to date.
(5)Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1). Last: WON 23-20 vs. Baltimore Ravens. Next: @ Jacksonville (2-2) (Sunday Night). Pittsburgh outlasted Baltimore this past Monday Night to regain the lead in the AFC North. Baltimore dominated the game through three quarters, then a personal foul penalty against Baltimore late in the third swung the game. The Steelers then scored 2 TD’s in 15 seconds and hung on to win in overtime. It was an ugly win, but still a win and you’ll take those against divisional opponents. Redemption will be on their minds this week when they travel to Jacksonville.
(4)Philadelphia Eagles (2-2). Last: LOST 20-24 @ Chicago Bears. Next: vs. Washington (3-1). The Eagles schedule is no joke, nobodies is when you play in the NFC East. There won’t be a team under .500, yet someone will not be making the playoffs. The Eagles are low-man on the totem pole at the moment, though I don’t think they’ll stay there. They’ll have a chance to make up some ground this week against the Redskins. Which defense makes a stop will determine the outcome.
(10)Carolina Panthers (3-1). Last: WON 24-9 vs. Atlanta Falcons. Next: vs. Kansas City (1-3). Carolina finally got the pass game going, and they’ll need it in the next coming weeks. With teams seeing Delhomme, Smith and Muhammed on the same page, the safeties will have to back off, allowing Stewart and Williams the opportunity to break big gains. Carolina needs to remain healthy, a problem they’ve had in the past, to remain in the NFC South race.
(6)Green Bay Packers (2-2). Last: LOST 21-30 @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Next: vs. Atlanta (2-2). Green Bay lost to a tough Buccaneers team on the road, but more importantly, may have lost their QB in the process. A shoulder separation of a QB’s throwing arm is no joke and could become a season ender. If that’s the case, I don’t see a pair of rookie QB’s able to step in against this schedule and have success. All will hinge on those all important x-rays and MRI’s to come for Rodgers.
(8)Denver Broncos (3-1). Last: LOST 19-33 @ Kansas City Chiefs. Next: vs. Tampa Bay (3-1). Do they have trap games in the NFL? If so this was the prime example of one, with Denver maybe looking ahead to Tampa Bay next week. Maybe not, but whatever the case, the Broncos looked bad against arguably the worst team in the league. We’ll see how they respond this week to a much better defense and similar run-first offense.
(12)San Diego Chargers (2-2). Last: WON 28-18 @ Oakland Raiders. Next: @ Miami (1-2). Things looked bad for the Chargers, going down 18 points to the Raiders early, but picked things up, scoring 28 unanswered and winning the game. The Chargers could have trouble this week in Miami (did I just say that out loud) trying to defend Ronnie Brown. They will need to play disciplined defense to have success and cover the TE in the middle of the field, something they failed at this past week.
(9)Indianapolis Colts (1-2). Last: BYE. Next: @ Houston (0-3). The Colts are coming off their BYE and they’ll get to play Houston this week. They key thing was getting time to heal and Manning getting more time to work with his receivers. I expect a lot of Joseph Addai this week to help things along. The defense will have their hands full with rookie phenom Steve Slaton. They’re going to have to stay disciplined and make sure tackles to keep the speedster from breaking big plays.
(14)New Orleans Saints (2-2). Last: WON 31-17 vs. San Francisco 49ers. Next: vs. Minnesota (1-3) (Monday Night). The Saints defense finally gelled and the results were a convincing win against San Francisco. The return of Deuce McAllister really opened things up for Brees down field and he continued his passing domination on the season. Minnesota’s secondary is horrendous, and even without Colston, Shockey, and/or Patten, New Orleans has the depth at receiver and tight end to remain productive.
(15)Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1). Last: WON 30-21 vs. Green Bay Packers. Next: @ Denver (3-1). Tampa Bay has looked good, and they’re winning games differently every week. The defense was very strong against the Pack this past week, creating pressure, forcing turnovers, and eventually knocking Rodgers out of the game. The offense should be able to move the ball effectively against Denver this week by running the football and setting up play action. Griese needs to do a better job of taking care of the football for them to continue to have success.
(11)New England Patriots (2-1). Last: BYE. Next: @ San Francisco (2-2). The Patriots have the fortune of the BYE also last week, and they needed probably more than any other team. Their offense just isn’t that good, and their defense was exposed severely against the Dolphins. While the 49ers won’t run the same package this week, expect a heavy dose of a very similar type back in Frank Gore.
(16)Chicago Bears (2-2). Last: WON 24-20 vs. Philadelphia Eagles. Next: @ Detroit (0-3). Chicago beat a very good Philadelphia team this past Sunday Night, and they did it with defense, stopping the Eagles on a fourth and goal from the one. The passing game has looked remarkably different from past years, with Orton becoming more of a playmaker and less o####ame manager. A passing game opens up the run and the Bears are very good at the run.
(NR)Washington Redskins (3-1). Last: WON 26-24 @ Dallas Cowboys. Next: @ Philadelphia (2-2). I want to rank the Redskins higher, but what are you gonna do. A win this week would shoot them up the ranks, I promise. Winning at Dallas is no easy feat, but the Skins have played well against the Boys, beating them in the final game last year to squeak into the playoffs. Back-to-back divisional road games are the ultimate test of a team. Let’s see how they perform this week.
Dropped Out: (13) Minnesota
On the Verge: Jacksonville (2-2)
Bottom Feeders: 32.St. Louis Rams, 31.Detroit Lions, 30. Cincinnati Bengals
(1)Dallas Cowboys (3-0). Last: WON 27-16 @ Green Bay Packers. Next: vs. Washington (2-1). Dallas won for the first time Green Bay. Dallas is going to be difficult to beat. Especially when the defense plays up to its potential like it did against Green Bay. The offense wasn’t spectacular, but it didn’t need to be, it just needed to be efficient and get points. They have a big divisional game this week, though it is a home, and Washington has come on strong after their dismal showing in week one.
(4)Buffalo Bills (3-0). Last: WON 24-23 vs. Oakland Raiders. Next: @ St. Louis (0-3). Buffalo squeaked out a win against Oakland, and that is good and bad for this team. It’s bad that they were in that position, especially being at home. But it’s good in that they had to come from behind, make big plays and nail a field goal with time expiring to win. These types of games are character builders for teams, and Buffalo continues to grow.
(5)New York Giants (3-0). Last: WON 26-23 vs. Cincinnati Bengals. Next: BYE. The Giants also struggles this past week, needing overtime to beat the Bengals. Cincinnati finally showed what type of team it could be, and I don’t think the Giants were quite prepared for that. Like the Bills, it is critical for teams to win tight games and overtime games to learn how to handle those types of situations. These learning experiences are vital to any team wanting to contend.
(6)Philadelphia Eagles (2-1). Last: WON 15-6 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers. Next: @ Chicago (1-2) (Sunday Night). The Eagles outlasted the Steelers in this heavyweight fight, but paid a bit of a price in the area of personnel. Tony Hunt(RB) was knocked out of the game on the first series and never returned. A series or two later, Brian Westbrook left the game after stepping on his own teammate. While Westbrook’s injury is being called a strain and not considered serious, the Eagles have quickly become thin in the backfield.
(2)Pittsburgh Steelers (2-1). Last: LOST 6-15 @ Philadelphia Eagles. Next: vs. Baltimore (2-0) (Monday Night). The Steelers got beat in the score, in the mental, and in the coaching game this past week. Big Ben was battered around all day to the tune of 8 sacks, 2 fumbles and an interception before leaving the game midway through the fourth quarter. It was a very physical game for both teams, so check injury reports to see who survived. I’d like to see some changes on the offensive line, but I doubt anything will happen. A win this week at home gets them back on track and back in first in the AFC North.
(3)Green Bay Packers (2-1). Last: LOST 16-27 vs. Dallas Cowboys. Next: @ Tampa Bay (2-1). The Packers lost to arguably the best team in the league, but Green Bay fan shouldn’t fret. I’m guessing that most teams will lose to the Cowboys. It’s all about how the Pack responds to losing. They face another challenge on the road this week against and aging, but solid defense. This game is important because it could decide playoff seeding and a game at home during those playoffs. I think this game shows us how good Green Bay really is.
(10)Tennessee Titans (3-0). Last: WON 31-12 vs. Houston Texans. Next: vs. Minnesota (1-2). Tennessee continues to win, playing solid defense and controlling the ball and the clock on offense. This is a much better passing game now with Collins, and he’ll have the ability to bring the team back if they fall behind. The Titans will face their mirror team in the NFC in the Vikings, who want to do the same things on offense and defense. Tennessee was gouged by much lesser of a running back in Steve Slaton, and will have to face A.P. Not taking anything away from the rook from WVU, but the Vikings have a better offensive line.
(13)Denver Broncos (3-0). Last: WON 34-32 vs. New Orleans Saints. Next:@ Kansas City (0-3). The Broncos lead the NFL in scoring through the first three weeks of the season and they’ll need to keep that trend going if they want to continue winning, because they’ve also given up the third most points in the league. They should continue to win this week at least as they visit Kansas City and the worst coached, worst offense in the league.
(8)Indianapolis Colts (1-2). Last: LOST 21-23 vs. Jacksonville Jaguars. Next: BYE. The Colts lost a heartbreaker to the Jags on a last second field goal this past week, so I can’t drop them too far, but they need to turn things around fast to stay in the AFC race. Luckily they get their BYE this week and it comes at a perfect time. Manning will get a week to rest and work on getting his timing back with his receivers. They’ll also get a chance to sure up that porous run defense, yikes.
(9)Carolina Panthers (2-1). Last: LOST 10-20 @ Minnesota Vikings. Next: vs. Atlanta (2-1). The AFC South is going to be tight this year, and the Panthers are going to be in the hunt. They have a huge divisional game this week against Atlanta, and they’ll need to get the passing game going to keep Atlanta from loading the box. This is a winnable game for Carolina, but the Falcons are out to prove something.
(7)New England Patriots (2-1). Last: LOST 13-38 vs. Miami Dolphins. Next: BYE. This game against the Dolphins will represent the rest of the season for New England in my opinion. There should be no possibly way the Dolphins rack up that many points on the Pats, which in case you forgot, Tom Brady is on IR. Wait a minute, Brady doesn’t play defense, wow. The Patriots get their BYE at the right time, and I expect The Devil(Bellicheck), to have his team ready to play. I still don’t think they’ll win more than eight games this year.
(14)San Diego Chargers (1-2). Last: WON 48-29 vs. New York Jets. Next: @ Oakland (1-2). The Chargers looked good Monday, easily disposing of the Jets while scoring big points, with turnovers, pressure, and a score from the defense as well. Tomlinson appeared to be okay but lacked explosiveness in his run that he normally carries in his game. He still scored two TD’s, while he actually didn’t do the work to get down there, he still converted, and that’s what mattered. San Diego has dominated Oakland in the past and I expect them to even up their record this week to get back in the hunt for the AFC West.
(16)Minnesota Vikings (1-2). Last: WON 20-10 vs. Carolina Panthers. Next: @ Tennessee (3-0). The Vikings finally finished the game in the win column this year, and they needed it badly. They honestly can’t afford to lose many more games this year if they want a chanced at a wild card spot, considering how well the NFC East is playing. They’ll get tested again this week when they travel to Tennessee. Hopefully A.P. is ready to go, because the Vikings will be counting on him to win the game.
(11)New Orleans Saints (1-2). Last: LOST 32-34 @ Denver Broncos. Next: vs. San Francisco (2-1). The Saints are getting close, but the defense is not holding things together long enough to help win games. They’re pretty ####ed up right now, and it might get worse before it gets better. There could be another shoot-out in the dome this week as Mike Martz comes strolling into town with his pass first, pass second, pass third philosophy. Drew Brees has a great game despite only throwing for one TD against Denver. There’s no confusing who’s going to have to win games for this team.
(NR)Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1). Last: WON 27-24 @ Chicago Bears. Next: vs. Green Bay (2-1). Tampa Bay makes their debut in the Power 16 this week after winning an overtime knock-down, drag-out with the Bears in the windy city. The defense and lack of ground game scares me about this team. When you run the ball a total of 10 times, you don’t win many games. They’ll need to run and sure up the defense this week when the Packers come to town.
(12)Chicago Bears (1-2). Last: LOST 24-27 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Next: vs. Philadelphia (2-1) (Sunday Night). Despite the overtime loss to Tampa, the Bears have to feel a little better about their passing game. They will at least realize they have one now, and it may be featured when they play Philly this coming Sunday Night. The Eagles are pretty ####ed up on offense right now, but the Bears will have to find a way to beat the every-play blitzing defense to give themselves a chance.
Dropped Out: (15) Arizona Cardinals (2-1)
On the Verge: Washington(2-1), Atlanta(2-1), Baltimore(2-0), San Francisco(2-1)
Bottom Feeders: 32.Kansas City, 31.St. Louis, 30.Detroit
(1)Dallas Cowboys (2-0). Last: WON 41-37 vs. Philadelphia Eagles. Next: @ Green Bay (2-0) (Sunday Night). The Cowboys offense continues to be a juggernaut, scoring at will against a good Philly defense. I’m a little worried that they gave up 37 points, but they did make stops when it mattered most. They’ll be tested again this week in Lambeau, facing another potent offense, but this time, in a very hostile and unpredictable environment.
(2)Pittsburgh Steelers (2-0). Last: WON 10-6 @ Cleveland Browns. Next: @ Philadelphia (1-1). Maybe it wasn’t the most glamorous of wins, but a win it was all the same. Anytime you have weather issues, especially wind, like they did in Cleveland, there’s not going to be very many big plays. Granted, the Steelers made them when it counted, the Browns did not. The schedule toughens now, but having a two and a half game lead over the Browns after week two of the season is pretty darn good. A win at Philly this week, something they haven’t done in a long time, would really put this team at the top of the AFC.
(7)Green Bay Packers (2-0). Last: Won 48-25 @ Detroit Lions. Next: vs. Dallas (2-0) (Sunday Night). The Packers jumped up early on the Lions and never looked back. Aaron Rogers is erasing all doubts of whether or not he can lead this team back to the NFC Championship game. They’ll get their shot to solidify themselves as the team to beat when they face the Cowboys this coming Sunday Night.
(4)Buffalo Bills (2-0). Last: WON 20-16 @ Jacksonville Jaguars. Next: vs. Oakland (1-1). Buffalo continues to perform against quality opponents, beating their second straight 2007 playoff team. I’m now a believer in this team because of the defenses play and the ability of Edwards to lead this team very efficiently in the passing game, not turning the ball over, and making big plays when the team needs it. Couple these things with a Tom Brady-less Patriots and one of the easiest schedules in football, and the Bills are smelling an AFC East title.
(5)New York Giants (2-0). Last: WON 41-13 @ St. Louis Rams. Next: vs. Cincinnati (0-2). The Giants continue their road winning ways, albeit against probably the worst team in the league. I like the fact that they can win games in grinder mode or by putting up big points. They haven’t played a good team yet, so we’ll see what happens when the time comes. The time will not be this week when Cincinnati comes to town. Expect a similar outcome to last week in this one.
(3)Philadelphia Eagles (1-1). Last: LOST 37-41 @ Dallas Cowboys. Next: vs. Pittsburgh (2-0). Philly was on the short end of a Monday Night shoot-out, but you still have to consider them one of the better teams in the league. I’m not sure what DeSean Jackson was doing when he dropped the ball prior to the end zone, but I’m sure he won’t be doing that again anytime soon. Pittsburgh comes to town this week and they haven’t been very successful when doing so. I’m expecting a little more defense in this one, but it should be another great game.
(8)New England Patriots (2-0). Last: WON 19-10 @ NY Jets. Next: vs. Miami (0-2). The Patriots won again, granted it has been against a couple of the worst teams in the league, and not by convincing margins. They get Miami this week, and if your MVP QB happens to get knocked out for the year, this isn’t a bad way to get your backup some work before they actually have to play teams that can beat them.
(10)Indianapolis Colts (1-1). Last: WON 18-15 @ Minnesota Vikings. Next: vs. Jacksonville (0-2). The Colts were very close to starting 0-2, but made some plays late in the game to erase a fifteen point deficit to pull out the last second win. Still, this team does not look right. The ground game needs a major spark, and I think Manning’s injury is prohibiting them from running the stretch play that they’ve made so successful. This is a big divisional game coming up and they’ll need to slow Jacksonville’s run game to win.
(12)Carolina Panthers (2-0). Last: Won 20-17 vs. Chicago Bears. Next: @ Minnesota (0-2). Carolina has now won two huge games to open the season, and they haven’t had their best player in doing so. That changes this week as Steve Smith returns from his suspension. The chemistry of the team will come into question, but I think they’ve got the mentality to hold things together. Jonathan Stewart is a beast, and I think he makes the offense more versatile when he’s in the game. If the defense can shut down AP, they’ve got an excellent chance to steal another game on the road.
(13)Tennessee Titans (2-0). Last: WON 24-7 vs. Cincinnati Bengals. Next: vs. Houston (0-1). Tennessee all of a sudden has a passing game thanks to Kerry Collins. The Titans have announced they will stick with him even when Vince Young returns from injury. I don’t think this is a bad thing. The run game has always been good. But now with the passing game, especially Justin Gage, posing a threat, the run game will be that much better. Collins just needs to remember to play within himself and realize he doesn’t need to win the game; he just needs not to lose it.
(6)New Orleans Saints (1-1). Last: LOST 24-29 @ Washington Redskins. Next: @ Denver (2-0). I think New Orleans needs to scrap the idea of Reggie Bush being the only one in the backfield. I think a two-back system, incorporating Pierre Thomas as the primary runner, would greatly benefit this team. Without a run game, defenses are keying on Drew Brees, making their vaunted passing attack less threatening. The loss of Marques Colston probably doesn’t help things either.
(11)Chicago Bears (1-1). Last: LOST 17-20 @ Carolina Panthers. Next: vs. Tampa Bay (1-1). I think Chicago will struggle this week offensively. This will be another grinding, low scoring game, with the team making the fewest mistakes coming away with a W in the win column. With Devin Hester bogged down by an injury, Chicago’s explosive special teams become merely mediocre. They’ll be at home this week, and Chicago’s weather always seems to be a mess. Hopefully these factors can help the Bears pull this one out.
(NR)Denver Broncos (2-0). Last: WON 39-38 vs. San Diego Chargers. Next: vs. New Orleans (1-1). There’s no team hotter than the Broncos right now. They’ve won big games to open the season and are in the driver’s seat in the AFC West. They have to face another high powered offense this week, and shutting down Drew Brees and Reggie Bush will be a priority. The defense needs to find a way to stop teams for Denver to truly be a playoff factoring team. Man, Brandon Marshall is awesome.
(9)San Diego Chargers (0-2). Last: LOST 38-39 @ Denver Broncos. Next: vs. NY Jets (1-1) (Monday Night). The Chargers plunge on the Power 16 this week due to the horrendous play of the defense and the injury to L.T. The Chargers will find solace this Monday Night when the J E T S Jets come calling. While they were technically cheated out of a win against Denver, they still had numerous opportunities to put the game away and failed. Somebody on the defense needs to step up and fill the leadership role now that Merriman is done for the year. Somebody better do something, and fast.
(NR)Arizona Cardinals (2-0). Last: WON 31-10 vs. Miami Dolphins. Next: @ Washington (1-1). So Arizona pounded Miami this past weekend, who hasn’t? I needed a team to represent the NFC West and they’re just as good as the next, plus they haven’t lost yet, so here they are. Kurt Warner looked much better this week and the receivers made the plays to blow the game open. The running game looks solid now that there is a truly viable backup to The Edge in Tim Hightower. If the defense keeps playing well, the Cardinals will going places, and it won’t be to the golf courses in January.
(14)Minnesota Vikings (0-2). Last: LOST 15-18 vs. Indianapolis Colts. Next: vs. Carolina (2-0). I think Minnesota is much better than their 0-2 record shows. They get another upstart team this week and will have to deal with Steve Smith. Jake Delhomme is not Peyton Manning, and if the Vikings are up 15 in the fourth quarter again, they’re won’t lose this time. I would look into this whole thing called scoring touch downs though. That would probably help.
Dropped Out: (15) Jacksonville Jaguars, (16) Atlanta Falcons
The NFL kicked off another season this past week, opening in the house of the defending Super Bowls Champions, and deservedly so. Viewers were treated to a grand spectacle of entertainment in the big apple, filled with incoherent ramblings of commentators, multiple seg-ways of the finest eateries, and crazed fans not so crazed anymore. There were games this weekend too. The schedule ran the gambit of predictable poundings to shocking upsets, to superstar’s seasons ending before they began. And all of these things were good and bad.
The Good
The Pittsburgh Steelers opened their season at home this year against the Houston Texans. Experts believed that this game would be close because of Houston’s improved defense and special teams. Pittsburgh weaknesses were supposed to be their offensive line and their special teams. While the offensive line did yield two sacks, one leading to a turnover, they did an excellent job of protecting Big Ben and opening parkway-size lanes for Fast Willie Parker to run through, to the tune of 136yrds and 3 TD’s. When the starters left the game for Pittsburgh at the end of the third quarter, the score was 35-3.
There where some major upsets in games this past week that supposedly had no chance of happening. Two Super Bowl favorites, the Colts and Chargers, both lost to NFC teams that weren’t even supposed to be contenders in their own divisions. Now, you can contribute those losses to injuries or early season rust, but the fact is the Colts looked terrible in their game against the Bears. San Diego’s game may have been a bit more of a fluke, losing on the last play of the game, but their defense just isn’t going to be the same without Merriman. Why is this good? One, it helps shift the balance of power a bit in the AFC. Two, upsets are always good for professional sports. Without them, people would just get bored and change the channel.
The Bad
As much as I’m NOT a fan of Tom Brady and the Patriots, I hate to see the NFL lose one of its most marketable players, not to mention its reigning MVP, to a season ending injury. I think any sports fan will tell you that even though they “hate” a particular player, an injury is never the way you want to see someone not performing. A lot of people may say that it was a dirty hit and that a defensive player may try something like that to gain an advantage, but I’m going to disagree in this instance. After watching the play multiple times, you can see that there was a huge pile-up all around Brady, a player came in at an odd angle, and the circumstance was unfortunate. While it seemed intentional, it’s just something that happens in professional football.
Monday Night Football becomes more unbearable to watch with each passing game. Tony Cornheiser has to go!!! He is by far the worst color commentator I’ve ever heard broadcast a game. His comments come out of turn, he’s loud and obnoxious, and his analysis to ever play is simple; it’s the most devastating, long-term circumstance that one could ever conceive of. I’ve mentioned Cornheiser in my column before, and my stance remains the same. He should go slide under a bus and spare us all any more agony.
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.
