1.(1) New England Patriots (12-0)(AFC1). Last: WON 27-24 at Baltimore Ravens. The Patriots won again and I don't think they should have. Read my "Week 13 in Review" article if you want to know why.
2.(2) Dallas Cowboys (11-1)(NFC1). Last: WON 37-27 against Green Bay Packers. The Cowboys proved they were the better team this past Thursday as they knocked off Green Bay. How good should they feel about the win? I'd say pretty to moderately good, here's why. They were at home and they knocked Brett Favre out of the game early. Now, that's not against Dallas or Aaron Rodgers, but we're talking about Brett Favre here. I think these teams meet again down the road and results may vary.
3.(3) Indianapolis Colts (10-2)(AFC2). Last: WON 28-25 against Jacksonville Jaguars. The Colts took a firm grasp on the AFC South as they beat the Jags for the second time this season, but not by much. Take away Garrad's 1st INT and the TD right before half-time and the game goes the other way. The Colts need to keep the machine rolling and they need to get Harrison back into game shape before the ones that really matter quickly arrive. I'm shocked he didn't play this past week. The Colts look like a solid #2 seed right now.
4.(4) Green Bay Packers (10-2)(NFC2). Last: LOST 27-37 at Dallas Cowboys. The Packers caught a couple of bad breaks in their loss AT Dallas including an injury to Charles Woodson that held him out of the game. Brett Favre should be back this week, but I don't think Packer fan has much to fear should Favre go down again. Aaron Rodgers looked good coming off the bench in relief and led the team on some nice scoring drives while not forcing things and turning the ball over. The Defense needs to play better for this team to win. I think they right the ship this week at home against Oakland.
5.(6) Pittsburgh Steelers (9-3)(AFC3). Last: WON 24-10 against Cincinnati Bengals. The Steelers recovered after a terrible 1st qt this past Sunday Night to easily handle the Bengals. The weather once again was an issue for this team which could become a problem in a few weeks. This team is known for thriving in bad conditions, but so far has sputtered. They get their crack at history as they travel to New England to end the Patriots flawless, but not spotless, record. The Steelers have had success against the Patriots before and it would be a huge help if they get Santonio Holmes and Marvel Smith back on offense this week. Do I believe, yes I do. Go Steelers!!!
6.(5) Jacksonville Jaguars (8-4)(AFC5). Last: LOST 25-28 at Indianapolis Colts. Jacksonville played very well on the road but came up just a few plays short of really making things interesting in the AFC South. They now find themselves 3 games back(includes tie-breaker) of Indy. Their schedule still makes them look like a playoff team as they get Carolina this week before having to travel to Pittsburgh in Week 15. They get Oakland at home and then play at Houston to finish up the season. They should be able to at least go 3-1 through that stretch and finish 11-5.
7.(8) Seattle Seahawks (8-4)(NFC3). Last: WON 28-24 at Philadelphia Eagles. The Seahawks got Shaun Alexander and the ground game going this week and while it may not have made much of a difference against the Eagles, it will when they get into January. The Defense looked great, handling Brian Westbrook as well as one could hope to. While the NFC is still weak, the Seahawks are at least starting to separate themselves from the pack. They get a huge divisional game at home this week against Arizona. A win here would even the season series against the Cardinals and all but clinch the NFC West.
8.(9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-4)(NFC4). Last: WON 27-23 at New Orleans Saints. Tampa Bay got lucky this past week. New Orleans had that game won and gave it away. The Buccs are a lock for the NFC South title and have an outside chance of moving all the way up to the #2 seed. Why? How? At Houston, vs. Atlanta’s, at San Francisco, vs. Carolina, that's how. I think Jeff Garcia gets another week or two to heal given the play of McCown against the Saints. Joey Galloway just peeked at the rest of the schedule and licked his lips. Mmmm... Touchdowns.
9.(10) San Diego Chargers (7-5)(AFC4). Last: WON 24-10 at Kansas City Chiefs. Oh San Diego, your division sucks, you're mediocre at best, and you're due for a loss. Enter this week's game at Tennessee, the last formidable opponent on the schedule. Finishing 10-6 in the AFC West should win the division by 3 games this year, ouch. I guess every division can't be competitive. San Diego WILL BE out coached this week in a tight game that sees L.T. gets shut down, Rivers forced to pass, and the defense chasing Vince Young up and down the field.
10.(11) New York Giants (8-4)(NFC5). Last: WON 21-16 at Chicago Bears. The Giants played horrid for 45min, then played good for 15min and won. I don't know if it's a testament to the Giants ability to stay in the game and make plays when it counts or the Bears Defense being just plain awful. A win is a win though, and the Giants will take it. They are set nicely in the NFC wildcard race right now and should just need to win two of their final four to get in. They travel to Philly this week and the defense is foaming at the mouth to get another crack at McNabb. The run game will be tested again with Derrick Ward being knocked out for the season. Jacobs is back this week, but he needs to stay healthy from here on out for the Giants to contend in January.
11.(7) Cleveland Browns (7-5)(AFC6). Last: LOST 21-27 at Arizona Cardinals. The Browns were unfortunate that they had to play a team coached by two former Steeler offensive coaches this past week. They get some easier games coming up and I still have them in as one of my playoff teams. They travel to the Meadowlands this week to play a Jets team that has been good at times, but bad more often than not. I see a bounce back week for this offense on route to a big victory and a momentum builder as they near the end of the regular season.
12.(14) Minnesota Vikings (6-6). Last: WON 42-10 against Detroit Lions. For the second week in a row the Vikings have crushed their opponents. This team is firing on all cylinders AND they just got Adrian Peterson back from injury. The defense has learned how to defend the pass much better than it did at the beginning of the season. They've got a great chance at sneaking into the playoffs this year if they can keep rolling. They play at San Francisco this week and I don't see them having any major problems taking care of business here. This team loves to run the ball and the final four games are against teams that love to give up tons of yards on the ground.
13.(15) Tennessee Titans (7-5). Last: WON 28-20 against Houston Texans. The Titans got back in the win column this past week, essentially saving their chances at making the playoffs this year. They have some tough matches coming up in the last four games and have the daunting task of figuring out how to stop L.T. this week. The Titans are a better team at home and Albert Haynesworth should be close to 100% this week, and they'll need him. The ground game is crucial for opening things up down field for Vince Young.
14.(NR) Arizona Cardinals (6-6)(NFC6). Last: WON 27-21 against Cleveland Browns. Arizona debuts this week in my Power 16 after winning three out of their last four. I bet they'd love to have that game against San Francisco back, ouch. They have the second toughest schedule of the teams fighting for the final playoff spot right now and injuries to their two big time receivers can't help matters. They need to win this week at Seattle to keep things alive. 15.(12) Detroit Lions (6-6). Last: LOST 10-42 at Minnesota Vikings. The Lions have lost four in a row and things don't get any easier as the Cowboys coming calling this week. Detroit is fading fast and they're in the toughest part of their schedule right now. Not the time to have the offense in meltdown mode. Who knows, maybe this team was just a product of an easy opening schedule and they're not as good as we thought. They have the hardest schedule remaining for teams battling for the sixth spot in the NFC. At one time I thought this was a playoff team. Hey, everyone's wrong once.
16.(13) New Orleans Saints (5-7). Last: LOST 23-27 against Tampa Bay Buccaneers. And sometimes they're wrong twice. Like in my love for the Saints. After crapping the game away last week to Tampa Bay, I don't know if they have anything left to make a playoff run. I had no idea they'd miss Deuce McAllister this much. If he comes back next year, here's how you win. Start the games with Reggie Bush, use Deuce on short yardage(even if it's a decoy) and late in the game to control the ball and the clock. The Saints need to be able to pound the ball with a big back at some point in a game. Their remaining schedule could lead them to the playoffs, but they need to go at least 3-1 to have any chance. It needs to start with a win over the Falcons this week.
1. New England Patriots (11-0). Last: WON 31-28 against Philadelphia Eagles. Well, the Patriots did indeed look like a regular team this past Sunday Night. The Eagles laid a blue-print on how to beat their defense. Now teams just have to be able to do it. It’s interesting to note that a pick-six and an ill-advised pass late in the game keeps them undefeated. Can they go 19-0, yes. Do I think they will, no.
2. Dallas Cowboys (10-1). Last: WON 34-3 against New York Jets. The Cowboys once again looked dominant easily disposing of a bad team. This week’s game will surely determine home filed advantage in the NFC. I give Dallas the edge over Green Bay because of their ability to run the ball late in games and they get to play at home this week. 3. Indianapolis Colts (9-2). Last: WON 31-13 at Atlanta Falcons. The Colts got back on track, granted in was against one of the worst teams in the league, but sometimes that needs to happen. I can’t state enough the value of Marvin Harrison to this team. They get Jacksonville this week and I believe Harrison will play in this extremely important divisional game. Cue: Peyton Manning breathing a huge sigh of relief.
4. Green Bay Packers (10-1). Last: WON 37-26 at Detroit Lions. Green Bay is probably the feel good story of the year in the NFL and why not? They’ve got a shot at clinching home field throughout when they play at Dallas on Thursday. I’m giving them a chance, but it will take a few things to go their way for it to happen.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars (8-3). Last: WON 36-14 against Buffalo Bills. Jacksonville has easily had the cushiest schedule in the NFL so far this year, but they will finally start to get challenged in the next few weeks, so we’ll see where this team really stands. It begins this week at Indy, and Marvin Harrison will likely play. If Mathis plays, Jacksonville has a chance with its ball control, protect the ball philosophy that could keep Manning frustrated all game. I think this one’s a close game. 6. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3). Last: WON 3-0 against Miami Dolphins. Hmm, I don’t know what to think of Pittsburgh all of a sudden. You lose to the Jets in overtime, then comeback on Monday Night and almost lay another egg to the winless Dolphins. Granted, if the weather was better, I think you see a very different final score. I was in Pittsburgh this past Monday Night and let me tell you, after 4 High School Championship games Friday, Pitt football Saturday, and a torrential down pour, that field was toast. They say it will be ready for this Sunday Night against Cincy. God I hope so.
7. Cleveland Browns (7-4). Last: WON 27-17 against Houston Texans. As I said a few weeks ago, this is a playoff team. The defense is stepping up its game and the offense is still rolling. They travel to Arizona this week and face another challenge. Ken Wisenhunt was offensive coordinator for Pittsburgh for numerous years and is used to seeing and having success against the Browns. A win here helps them keep pace with the Steelers and keeps them in that all important 6th and final playoff spot for now. The key in this one is stopping that potent Cardinal offense that is firing on all cylinders right now.
8. Seattle Seahawks (7-4). Last: WON 24-19 at St. Louis Rams. As much as I hate ranking an NFC WEST team this high, Seattle deserves some props for playing well and playing consistent. I do believe they are a better team right now without Shaun Alexander. I don’t think they have to worry about another NFC WEST team catching them as this point, but they need a big win playing at Philly this week. Philly should have upset the Pats this past week, and A.J. Feely at QB makes them better. This is a huge conference game for Seattle.
9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-4). Last: WON 19-13 against Washington Redskins. Tampa Bay just keeps plugging away, handling their business and winning games. A huge divisional match this week against the Saints can really help separate them in the race for the NFC SOUTH. The Tampa 2 defense has really frustrated Brees this year and the lack of a Saints run game really puts Tampa in a great spot. I think Jeff Garcia needs to play and play well for them to win this week.
10. San Diego Chargers (6-5). Last: WON 32-14 against Baltimore Ravens. Up and down, Up and down… When is this team going to show me some consistency? Just like the NFC WEST, the AFC WEST also is guaranteed one of its teams to make the playoffs. Luckily for San Diego, they’re just slightly better than the rest of the teams there. All four AFC WEST teams play each other this week with San Diego traveling to Kansas City. I wonder which Charger team will show up this week? Every game counts for this team. A slip up now and the division may slip away.
11. New York Giants (7-4). Last: LOST 17-41 against Minnesota Vikings. Wow, Eli Manning is bad, or was it because brother Peyton was in attendance when he threw 4 picks against Minnesota this past week. Ouch. This team can’t win if it can’t run the ball and throw play-action off the run. Droughns is serviceable, but without Jacobs in the line-up, this is pretty much a one dimensional team. The defense is doing everything it can to keep them competitive, but when they’re not on the field and the other team is scoring touchdowns, there’s not to much you can do.
12. Detroit Lions (6-5). Last: LOST 26-37 against Green Bay Packers. I just don’t think the Lions have a good enough team this year to make the playoffs. Yes, I’m now calling for them to NOT make it. They’re close, and yes, they may still make it this year, but they won’t get very far in January if they do. As much as I like Jon Kitna, I don’t think he can get the job done. Inconsistency killed the cat, or in this case, the Lion.
13. New Orleans Saints (5-6). Last: WON 31-6 at Carolina Panthers. I’ve taken a lot of heat for loving the Saints, but something tells me this team is not finished. They would get a huge boost if they could beat division foe Tampa Bay this week. I also don’t think a wild card spot is out of the question. They need some type of run game to stay competitive though. Oddly, this team plays better on the road than at home. That’s very strange and needs to change for them to have a chance going forward.
14. Minnesota Vikings (5-6). Last: WON 41-17 at New York Giants. I like the Vikings defense, a lot. They looked much better against the pass than they have all season. They should get Adrian Peterson back this week, but I’m not sure they should. They’re at home against the Lions and Chester Taylor has been lights out since taking over as the featured back. Give Purple Jesus or whatever you call him another week to get that knee better. A playoff push is not out of the question, but having Peterson out for year would raise a lot of questions.
15. Tennessee Titans (6-5). Last: LOST 6-35 at Cincinnati Bengals. This is another team on the down and out. They win by building a lead, then protecting by running late. Without Albert Haynesworth, this defense is nothing more than a wet paper bag. A huge divisional game at home against the Texans looms this week. Stopping Andre Johnson should be top priority in this one. LenDale White is a back that gets better as he gets more carries. Give him the ball! 16. Houston Texans (5-6). Last: LOST 17-27 at Cleveland Browns. With Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson back, this team is good again. I know they lost this past week, but I like the way they’re playing as a team right now. They get a chance to even up with Tennessee this week with a win over them. Protecting the ball and containing Vince Young will be tops on the menu. One of these teams will be off my Top 16 next week. Who will it be?
BYE WEEK: Tom Brady, Kellen Clemens, Chad Pennington, Jeff Garcia, Matt Schaub, Sage Rosenfels
MUST START: Peyton Manning, Carson Palmer, Tony Romo, Donovan McNabb, Brett Favre, Drew Brees, Ben Roethlisberger, Eli Manning, Derek Anderson, J.P. Losman, Matt Hasselbeck
START
Marc Bulger (STL) – The Rams finally got their BYE last week and no other team needed it more. Bulger looked good in Week 8 and the extra week of rest and preparation should benefit him tremendously. The Saints DEF has been playing really good lately, but I see this one turning into a shoot-out in the dome with both teams being very comfortable in doors. QB protection will still be an issue for the Rams, but they’ll be in catch up mode all day. (300yrds, 3 TD’s, 2 INT)
Jason Campbell (WAS) – I’ve got a feeling this is the week that the super-conservative Redskins cut Campbell loose. They have to do something to get the WR’s more involved in this offense. Philly will load the box and have success stopping the run which will force Campbell to throw. We know the RB’s and TE’s will get their looks in check-downs, but this team does have the weapons on the outside to make things happen. If this team considers itself playoff worthy, it needs to start throwing down field now. (280yrds, 30yrds rush, 2 TD’s, 1 INT)
SIT
Brian Griese (CHI) – I’d stay away from Griese this week. The Raiders have excellent corners and safeties but a terrible run defense. Unfortunately Chicago has no semblance of a run game to speak of, so that doesn’t help. This will be a game of defense and special teams, with turnovers making the difference. Unless you’ve got Tom Brady on BYE this week, you should be able to find a much better fill-in. (200yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT, 1 FUM)
Jon Kitna (DET) – Something about the Cardinals play-making defense tells me to ignore Kitna this week. He’s had only 2 TD’s in his last 4 games and has thrown for over 250yrds in half of his games this season. I’d look for a similar trend to continue as the Lions would really like to get that run game up to a consistent threat. Playoff teams run the ball in November and December and the Lions look like they’re headed in that direction. (175yrds, 1 TD, 1 INT, 1 FUM)
Running Back
BYE WEEK: Laurence Maroney, Kevin Faulk, Thomas Jones, Leon Washington, Earnest Graham, Michael Bennett, Michael Pittman, Ahman Green, Ron Dayne
MUST START: LaDanian Tomlinson, Frank Gore, Joseph Addai, Willie Parker, Brian Westbrook, Adrian Peterson(MIN), Marshawn ####, Marion Barber, Willis McGahee, Reggie Bush, Clinton Portis, Maurice Jones-Drew, LenDale White, Brandon Jacobs, Steven Jackson
START
Priest Holmes (KC) – That’s right folks, you know him, you love him, it’s the man you probably won you a couple of fantasy football titles a few years ago. He’s back, and with Larry Johnson sidelined this week, Holmes gets his crack against the worst rush defense in the league. Holmes is fresh and poised to show the league that he can still play at a high level in the NFL. The Chiefs may go to a different QB this week and Holmes will benefit the most in Herm Edwards super-conservative offense. They’ll play ball control offense and use the home field advantage to win. (125yrds, 7 catches 60yrds, 2 TD’s)
Justin Fargas (OAK) – The only thing the Raiders can do on offense is run the ball and you have to figure they’re going to do the same thing again this week. At home, the Raiders will want to control the ball and try to steal a win against the depleted Bears. Fargas has put up 2 performances of over 100yrds in limited game time. The Raiders get great match-ups this week and look for the run game to carry this team. (110yrds, 3 catches 25yrds, 1 TD)
SIT
Shaun Alexander (SEA) – Until further notice, Alexander needs to be benched. He has 1 rushing TD this year and has failed to top 80yrds since week 3. He’s either injured or just doesn’t care anymore. Which ever it is, you can’t rely on him going forward. While their schedule gets pretty easy, I see Alexander’s carries diminishing as he gives way to Maurice Morris more and more. The glory days are numbered for a player that just a few years ago was on top of the fantasy world. (50yrds 0TD)
Jamal Lewis (CLE) – Lewis has failed to break 100yrds in every game this year except for the Week 2 scoring bonanza against Cincy. If you played Lewis last week, his 4 TD’s probably won you your game. However, he only managed 37yrds rushing. Though he’s had some success against Pittsburgh in the past, don’t expect anything this week against the #1 scoring defense in the league. If the Browns are to stay in this game they’ll need to throw, and throw, and throw, leaving Lewis on the short end of the fantasy stick. (40yrds, 1 TD, 1 FUM)
Wide Receivers
BYE WEEK: Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Donte’ Stallworth, Laveranues Coles, Jerricho Cotchery, Brad Smith, Joey Galloway, Ike Hilliard, Michael Clayton, Andre Johnson, Kevin Walter, Jacoby Jones, Andre Davis
MUST START: Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzedah, Roy Williams, Calvin Johnson, Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, Dwayne Bowe, Marques Colston, Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, Steve Smith, Braylon Edwards, Reggie Wayne, Terrell Owens, Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes, Steve Smith, Plaxico Burress, Lee Evans, Torry Holt
START
Drew Bennett (STL) – The game this week will be a huge shoot out and Bennett draws the best match-up in the Saints secondary. Look for the Rams to throw a lot and Bennett has the skill set to exploit the defense. The Saints will be busy covering Holt, Bruce, and Jackson all day, leaving Bennett to grab big plays all over the field. (7 catches 100yrds, 2 TD’s)
Amani Toomer (NYG) – Toomer should benefit the most from a Redskins defense concentrating on everything else this week. Toomer has scored 2 out of his last 3 games and I’d expect him to get one here. The play-action pass will be big for the Giants and Toomer is a seasoned veteran that will take advantage of the Redskins aggressive defense. (5 catches 75yrds, 1 TD)
SIT
Bernard Berrian (CHI) – The Raiders have the ability to shut down opposing receivers. The Bears will focus more on getting their ground game going this week after how bad it’s been for the season. The Bears coaching staff has said they’ve made the adjustments to rectify the problems, so we’ll see how that goes. (3 catches 30yrds)
Ronald Curry (OAK) – With Jerry Porter likely to miss this week’s game, the Bears only have to neutralize Curry to shut down Oakland’s pass game, which wasn’t much to begin with in the first place. The Raiders will try and run the ball this week and shorten the game anyway, making Curry a bad option. (5 catches 40yrds)
Tight Ends
BYE: Ben Watson, Kyle Brady, Jeremy Stevens, Alex Smith, Chris Baker, Owen Daniels, Jeb Putzier
MUST START: Antonio Gates, Jason Witten, Dallas Clark, Heath Miller, Chris Cooley, Tony Gonzalez, Kellen Winslow, Jeremy Shockey
START
L.J. Smith (PHI) – Smith will emerge as the go to receiver behind Brian Westbrook this week. With no real threat from the WR’s on the outside, McNabb needs to start moving the ball downfield in other ways. With Smith being as healthy as he’s been all year, I see him getting more involved each week going forward. Teams are always trying to stop Westbrook first, and Smith should benefit the most when that happens. (6 catches 75yrds, 1 TD)
SIT
Todd Heap (BAL) – Probably being Mr. Obvious here, but until Heap starts and gets through an entire game; you should look elsewhere for TE help.
Weekly Plug & Play
KICKERS
John Kasay (CAR) – The Panthers should be able to move the ball between the 20’s all day. They’ll also probably stall in the red zone all day. I look for Steve Smith to be limited and the run game to get jump-started this week to take some pressure off of Testaverde and his lack of play makers on offense. (2-2 XP, 3-3 FG)
DEF / SPECIAL TEAMS
Oakland Raiders – The Raiders have the defense to hold the Bears offense in check all day. This is a perfect time to grab them and plug them in. Don’t get worried about the Raiders lack of ability to stop the run, the Bears can’t and don’t run on anybody. Look for this DEF to take advantage of the secondary’s ball skills and grab a couple of picks. The thing to fear the most in this game is actually Chicago’s special teams. (16 PA, 250yrds allowed, 2 INT, 1 FUM)
Atlanta Falcons – If you read my blog last week, you would have scored nicely by starting the Falcons against the 49ers. The Falcons are looking like a good play again this week with David Carr OUT and Vinny Testaverde QUESTIONABLE. If the Panthers have to start Matt Moore, they could be in for a long day. The Falcons will shut down Steve Smith and focus on pressuring the young QB into making some mistakes. (13 PA, 200yrds allowed, 3 INT, 2 FUM). If Testaverde starts the Falcons are not worth a play here.
All information provided in this blog is of 100% original material. This article does not guarantee how a player will perform in their game, but rather an educated prediction based on my knowledge and research.
1.(2) New England Patriots (9-0). Last: WIN 24-20 at Indianapolis Colts. I loved watching Belicheat and Crybrady moping and sulking for 3 quarters. I was saddened when they came back and won. They’re clearly the best team right now and probably barring their team charter plane crashing, they’ll likely go undefeated. I think the Steelers have the best chance to beat them Week 14, but the game is at New England. The ’72 Dolphins will fade from memory like they never were.
2.(1) Indianapolis Colts (7-1). Last: LOSS 20-24 against New England Patriots. The Colts are off to their worst start in 3 years (pause until laughter dies down). Look, this game determined home field advantage for the playoffs and not too much else right now. The Colts need to get Marvin Harrison back at least by the next time they play the Pats. This team is affine and will continue to roll up their opponents and start another win-streak this week when they play San Diego.
3.(3) Dallas Cowboys (7-1). Last: WIN 38-17 at Philadelphia Eagles. The Cowboys looked polished coming off their BYE week to dismantle the Eagles on Sunday night. Terrell Owens is playing at the top of his game, he’s happy, and the rest of the team is feeding of his positive energy. Their one loss was against the Patriots, so no big deal there. Another big divisional game is on tap this week at the Giants. A win here would pretty much solidify their hold on the NFC.
4.(4) Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2). Last: WIN 38-7 against Baltimore Ravens. The Steelers looked impressive this past Monday Night as they dominated all aspects of the game and crushed the Ravens. The Steelers are unbeatable at home and as the weather gets worse, they get better. They get Cleveland at home this week and could be up by two games in the division with a few cupcakes up in the next weeks before heading to New England. Special Teams has always been the weak link for the Steelers, but they have the weapons to overcome a few mistakes here and there.
5.(5) Green Bay Packers (7-1). Last: WIN 33-22 at Kansas City Chiefs. The Pack keep rolling under the strong play of Brett Favre and those young WR’s. The defense has been lights out too. A huge divisional game this week against Minnesota will test the run defense. Luckily they can load up the box against Peterson because Bollinger isn’t scaring anyone. The Packers would love to grab home field advantage for the playoffs and this is the first step. They shouldn’t have any problem this week.
6.(6) Tennessee Titans (6-2). Last: WIN 20-7 against Carolina Panthers. The Titans continue to get the job done by pounding the football and playing great defense. It’s a formula that works. They’ve had no play from Vince Young lately, which will catch up with them sooner rather than later. They need to get the pass game going to ensure a nice balance on offense. They get the depleted Jaguars this week, so expect a low scoring affair with the turnover being the difference maker here.
7.(7) New York Giants (6-2). Last: BYE. The Giants got some rest this past week and they needed it. With all the important parts getting healthy and having two weeks to prepare for Dallas, they’ve got a chance at winning this week. The run game has to continue to carry this team and Eli Manning cannot turn the ball over at the end of the halves. The defense is playing as good as any right now and they’ll need to keep pressure and contain on Tony Romo this week to give them the best chance.
8.(10) Detroit Lions (6-2). Last: WIN 44-7 against Denver Broncos. A dominating performance by every aspect of this team has them pushing hard for that NFC North Title. They still have two games coming up against the Packers, so there is a big possibility of that happening. Every week, a new player steps up and makes a play. The defense was huge last week, now the offense gets its chance to match that output. Who’s gonna lead this team to victory this week?
9.(12) Cleveland Browns (5-3). Last: WIN 33-30 against Seattle Seahawks. The Browns are on a roll. They’ve got a huge mental hurdle to overcome this week though as they travel to Pittsburgh this week. They’ve got the fire power to exorcise their demons. Can they keep their collective cool if things start to go the wrong way for them? The Steelers have a history of frustrating teams into bad spots then the turnover bug starts to eat away. Protect the ball and the quarterback and they’ve got a chance, however small it may be.
10.(16) New Orleans Saints (4-4). Last: WIN 41-24 against Jacksonville Jaguars. The Saints have now won 4 games in a row and have completed the hardest part of their schedule. They should have no problem continuing their winning ways the rest of the year. Drew Brees is back and the timing of this offense has never been better. They’re finally getting that consistent play from the #2 WR they were missing in the beginning of the year. And don’t forget about how well the defense has been playing.
11.(8) Jacksonville Jaguars (5-3). Last: LOSS 24-41 at New Orleans Saints. The Jaguars are slipping fast and David Garrard doesn’t look like he’ll play this week. This is a big divisional game coming against the Titans. They need to win to stay in the hunt because the AFC just has too many good teams for them to fall so far behind. They’ll be without Marcus Stroud who got suspended by the NFL. The Titans scorched them on the ground in Week 1. The defense needs to come up big this week to give this team a chance.
12.(14) Washington Redskins (5-3). Last: WIN 23-20 at NY Jets. Just squeaking by the Jets leaves a lot to be desired, but a win is a win. The Redskins need to stop being so stinking conservative because someone is going to shut down the run and then they’ll be forced to throw. Jason Campbell has the tools to get the job done, the coaches just need to take the restraints off and let him throw downfield to the receivers. If they don’t, wins will be tough to come by going forward.
13.(9) San Diego Chargers (4-4). Last: LOSS 17-35 at Minnesota Vikings. Wow! I hope this team can get its head straight after they were taken behind the woodshed this past week by Adrian Peterson. Oh ####, here come the Colts. The Chargers need to get Tomlinson going this week to keep control of the clock and keep Manning off the field. The Colts are missing some weapons on offense, but I don’t know if it will matter. If this game comes down to coaching, the Chargers stand no chance.
14.(11) Kansas City Chiefs (4-4). Last: LOSS 22-33 against Green Bay Packers. There’s a lot of talk about making a QB switch this week. The Chiefs need to do something to spark this offense with Larry Johnson sidelined at least this week. You can’t throw every pass to Gonzalez and the RB in the flat. Teams will catch on to this and stop it. Throwing down field opens other things up. Herm Edwards is probably the most conservative coach in the league, but he’ll not be afforded that luxury much longer.
15.(NR) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5-4). Last: WIN 17-10 against Carolina Panthers. Tampa Bay won again this past week, jumping them into the Power 16. They’re still not a very good football team with average players at every position. They get a BYE this week and when they return to action they’ll be in a tie for first place. Get some rest and get ready. They’ll need everything they can get to keep pace with the surging Saints.
16.(15) Seattle Seahawks (4-4). Last: LOSS 30-33 at Cleveland Browns. Hmmm… It wouldn’t be right not to include all of the division leaders this week. Seattle will get to show what they’re made of this coming Monday Night when they get the woeful 49ers at home. This team has no run game and inconsistencies in every other area. Someone on offense needs to step up and start making some plays. Alexander needs to be benched because he’s hurting this team more than helping at this point.
BYE WEEK: Eli Manning,Brian Griese, Cleo Lemon, Marc Bulger
MUST START: Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Carson Palmer, Tony Romo, Donovan McMabb, Brett Favre, Drew Brees, Ben Roethlisberger
START
Derek Anderson – Anderson has the Browns offense firing on all cylinders since their loss to the Patriots. In those two weeks since he has thrown 3TD’s in back to back games without turning the ball over. He has thrown for over 200yrds in every game this year and gets the Seahawks at home this week. Look for the Browns to move the ball up and down the filed this week as this game should turn into a shoot-out. (300yrds, 3 TD)
Philip Rivers – Rivers threw 3 TD’s last week and looks to keep things rolling against one of the worst pass defenses in the league. With the Vikings being able to shut down the run, look for Rivers to find Gates, Tomlinson, and newly acquired Chris Chambers often in this game. Yards have been tough to come by for Rivers for season as he has only thrown for over 200yrds twice, so don’t expect much more in that category. San Diego’s Defense though, should provide ample scoring opportunity this week. (200yrds, 2 TD, 1 INT)
J.P. Losman – Losman came back from injury/bench last week and looked good moving the football and leading the Bills to victory. He gets a terrible Bengals offense this week in a game that has big scoring potential. With Marshawn ####’s ability to draw extra defenders into the box, Lee Evans and Roscoe Parrish should find ample space in the secondary. Losman hasn’t been bad when he’s been in there and I’d expect a decent day from him. He’s usable as a BYE week fill-in. (200yrds, 2 TD’s, 2 INT)
SIT
Vince Young – The Panthers are used to facing Michael Vick twice a year. They’ll be ready for what Vince Young can do. Young is still not fully recovered in my opinion, so that may limit his mobility even more. The Titans will do what they do every week, run the football until the wheels come off, only throw when they absolutely have to, kick field goals, and play good defense. Until further notice, stay away. (125 pass yrds, 25 rush yrds, 1 TD, 1 INT)
Jeff Garcia – Garcia easily had his worst game last week and I’ve got a feeling about the Cardinals defense coming off a BYE this week. Tampa Bay just doesn’t have enough offensive weapons after Joey Galloway to make an impact in this game. The Cardinals defense has play makers on it and they know how to get after the run game. Expect the Cardinals offense to be on the field a lot, limiting Garcia’s value even more. (170yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT)
Running Back
BYE WEEK: Brandon Jacobs, Derrick Ward, Reuben Droughns, Cedric Benson, Adrian Peterson, Jesse Chatman, Patrick Cobbs, Steven Jackson, Brian Leonard
MUST START: LaDanian Tomlinson, Larry Johnson, Frank Gore, Joseph Addai, Willie Parker, Brian Westbrook, Adrian Peterson, Marshawn ####, Marion Barber, Willis McGahee, Reggie Bush, Thomas Jones, Clinton Portis, Maurice Jones-Drew, LenDale White
START
Kevin Jones – Yes, the Lions do have a run game! Jones is at home this week against one of the worst rush defenses in the league. He had a monster game last week topping the century mark for the first time while scoring a TD. Jones has seen his workload increase in every game this season and has scored a TD in 4 out of his 5 games played. He is also averaging a couple of catches per game. That number could increase since the safer Jon Kitna could be checking down a lot due to the Broncos excellent corners. (125yrds rush, 5 catches 40yrds, 1 TD)
Shaun Alexander – This is Alexander’s last hurrah in my opinion. If he doesn’t produce in this game, he becomes a must sit from here on out. The Browns defense has been better, but Alexander has the skill set to exploit them. Coming off their BYE, Seattle has had more than ample time to prepare for Cleveland. Look fro the Seahawks to control the ball and the game and keep the Browns offense off the field. Alexander will be a major part of that game plan. (75yrds, 2 catches 15yrds, 2 TD) SIT
DeShaun Foster/DeAngelo Williams – The Panthers will struggle again this week with David Carr at QB. They will try to run, but Tennessee’s rush defense is among the best in the land. The Titans will play ball control offense and not turn the ball over, getting points every time they get into range. This will force Carr to air out the football late in the game in desperation mode with eyes for only Steve Smith. Look elsewhere if you can. (40yrds, 3 catches 20yrds)
Packers RB – I’m not sold on Ryan Grant repeating what he did last Monday night. Don’t forget that the Pack throws the ball more than any team in the league and they were playing Denver. Now, I think Grant is still worth a roster spot this week, but not as a starter unless you’re hurting from BYE weeks. (35yrds, 3 catches 20yrds)
Wide Receivers
BYE WEEK: Plaxico Burress, Amani Toomer, Steve Smith, Musin Muhammad, Bernard Berrian, Rashied Davis, Marty Booker, Ted Ginn Jr, Derek Hagan, Tori Holt, Issac Bruce, Drew Bennett
MUST START: Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzedah, Roy Williams, Calvin Johnson, Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, Dwayne Bowe, Marques Colston, Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, Joey Galloway, Steve Smith, Braylon Edwards, Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, Terrell Owens, Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes
START
Jerricho Cotchery – With Laverneous Coles apparently headed to the sidelines this week with a concussion, Cotchery should benefit the most from newly named starting QB’s Kellen Clemens strong arm. With Clemens at the helm, the Jets will be able to open up the playbook and use more down field pass plays to loosen up the Redskin defense. The Jets should be down in this game and forced to throw late. (8 catches 125yrds, 1 TD)
Ronald Curry – Curry is salivating at getting a chance to square off against a Texans defense that has been giving up big points to opposing receivers of lately. There’s also a chance that Josh McCown relieves Culpepper in this game if he struggles early. If that happens, Curry’s number s will be even bigger. If the Texans focus on stopping the Raiders run game, and they should, Curry will be the main target with Jerry Porter hurting and Mike Williams released this week. (7 catches 100yrds, 1TD)
Chris Chambers – Chambers caught a TD last week and looks to make it two in a row as the Vikings have arguably the worst pass defense in the league but are excellent in stopping the run. Look for Rivers to throw early and often to try and open up running lanes and for Chambers to be a big beneficiary of the long ball that drives Norv Turner’s pass game. (5 catches 80yrds, 1 TD)
SIT
Kevin Walter – No, not this week. The Raiders are very good against the pass, not so much against the run. Expect Houston to try and control the game on the ground and wear down the front 7 of Oakland. Walter is too average to do anything against this defense. (3 catches 25yrds)
Kevin Curtis – The Cowboys will use Terrance Newman to cover Curtis, likely taking him out of the game this week. The Eagles should be behind in this game, so they’ll be throwing a lot this week, but they’ll keep everything in front of them, thus limiting Curtis’s down field strength. (4 catches 50yrds)
Tight Ends
BYE: Jeremy Shockey, Desmond Clark, Greg Olsen, David Martin, Justin Peele, Randy McMichael
MUST START: Antonio Gates, Jason Witten, Dallas Clark, Heath Miller, Chris Cooley, Tony Gonzalez, Kellen Winslow
START
Todd Heap – It looks like Heap will play this Monday night and if he does he’ll have a nice little match up. If there’s one area of the Steelers defense you can exploit, it’s the underneath routes over the middle and along the side lines. Heap has had great success against the Steelers in the past and games between these two teams are always tight, defensive struggles. If you don’t like waiting until Monday Night to make decisions, you might want to look elsewhere just in case. (5 catches 65yrds, 1TD)
SIT
Jeff King – King has been hot lately, providing the Panthers with most of their production in the passing game. Keith Bulluck is a masterful linebacker that can shut down the underneath routes that tight ends thrive on. I think David Carr back at QB this week actually hurts the Panthers more than it helps. Try to find an alternative if you can. (2 catches 20yrds)
Weekly Plug & Play
Kicker
Shaun Suisham – The Redskins will want to get back on track after last week’s beat down and they conveniently get the Jets this week. Washington should be able to control the game with the run and play-action pass that will lead the offense on scoring drives for most of the day. If you need a quick fill-in this week, Shaun is your man. (3-3 FG, 2-2XP)
Defense/Special Teams
Atlanta Falcons – I know the Falcons are bad but you can’t get any worse than the San Francisco offense right now. They are at home and if there’s been one bright spot on the team it has been this unit. I expect a low scoring game from both teams with the 49ers offense stalling on many occasions. (9 PA, 3 SCK, 2 INT, 1 FUM)
All information provided in this article is 100% original material. This information is in no way a gaurantee as to how individual players will perform in their games.
1. Indianapolis Colts (7-0) - They're still the team to beat in the NFL in my opinion. Coming off a Super Bowl win and putting a better team on the field this year. We'll see what happens this week.
2. New England Patriots (8-0) - They're game this week against the Colts will tell the tale. If they keep running up the score we'll have the second QB named Brady watching games from the sidelines, only this Brady will be there because of injury.
3. Dallas Cowboys (6-1) - I hate putting an NFC team this high, but they've been the most consistent of the group. Someone has to get clobbered by an AFC team in the Super Bowl this year, may as well be the Cowboys.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2) - Their only loses this year have come on the road and by a total of 10pts. Not to mention that one of them was against their old coach who's playbook still had that new playbook smell. Baltimore this week will tell us just exactly how good they are.
5. Green Bay Packers (6-1) - Brett Favre is back ladies and gentlemen and look what he's brought with him this year, a team with some talent. In the terrible NFC, the Pack look solid and Lambeau is always a tough place to play come December & January.
6. Tennessee Titans (5-2) - Surprised? You shouldn't be. They find ways to win games with or without Vince Young and are 2-1 in the division. Oh yeah, they also have arguably the easiest schedule here on out. Don't sleep on this team.
7. New York Giants (6-2) - They get the nod here by winning their last 6 games. This will probably be the last year for Tom Coughlin, but at least he has his guys ready and willing to play now. Let's see how they rebound after their next loss. Everything's peachy when you're winning.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-2) - If they can maintain their winning ways while David Garrard is out, this team will be stronger when he gets back. Take that plus another cake of a schedule and the Jags look ready to go back to the playoffs.
9. San Diego Chargers (4-3) - Resurgent, but their coach is still holding them back. What makes people think that this guy can coach? Everywhere he goes, his teams fail. Thank god for LaDanian Tomlinson and Antonio Gates.
10. Detroit Lions (5-2) - That's right, the Lions round out the Top 10. This team is playing smarter football and it's showing in the win column. John Kitna is turning the ball over less and the coaches realized they do have a running game. The defense is still the weak link, but they're improving each week.
11. Kansas City Chiefs (4-3) - The Chiefs are finally playing Herm Edwards defense. That translates to wins in a weak AFC West. With the addition of ROTY candidate Dwayne Bowe, the Chiefs finally have a threat on the outside to take heat off of Tony Gonzalez and Larry Johnson. Oh yeah, they just got some guy named Priest Holmes back.
12. Cleveland Browns (4-3) - Charlie Frye must have really been holding this team back. The Browns are in 2nd place and have already beaten the Ravens and Bengals. They've got Pro-Bowlers at WR and TE and Derek Anderson is legit. If the defense can start matching the offense, this team could be scary (as in good). A sleeper playoff contender this year.
13. Baltimore Ravens (4-3) - The Ravens are on their way down. The defense is getting old, wait, so is the offense. How much does this team have left in the tank? If they get handled by the Steelers this Monday Night, you can stick a fork in them. They need this game... bad.
14. Washington Redskins (4-3) - They're slipping and this past weeks beat down at the hands of the Patriots doesn't help. They need to get back on track in a hurry. This game will tell the season for this team. Do they have any will to live after what happened? Lucky for them they get the lowly Jets this week. Funny how things have a way of working out.
15. Seattle Seahawks (4-3) - I guess leading your division has to mean something... except when it's the NFC West. This team is not very good, but when you look at the rest of the division, well, luckily for Seattle they automatically give a playoff spot to every division winner. At least they'll be able to say they made it.
16. New Orleans Saints (3-4) - Yeah, I know they're 3rd in their division right now, but come on, the Panthers and Buccaneers aren't fooling anyone. If you look at the Saints schedule after their game against Jacksonville this week, it screams AFC South Champs.
I am an avid Football Fan. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA how could one not be! I love my Steelers, but more, I love the game of Football. I moved to the Bay Area of California about six years ago and boy do I feel sorry for the sports fans who live here. I currently reside in San Ramon, CA with my lovely wife Kelly and our new son Dillon, future NFL quarterback.
