QB – Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tony Romo, Ben Roethlisberger, Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler
INJURY WATCH: Ben Roethlisberger(PIT), Donovan McNabb(PHI), Aaron Rodgers(GB), Carson Palmer(CIN), Jon Kitna(DET), Gus Frerotte(MIN), Vince Young(TEN)
Start
Matt Cassel (NEP) – Anytime the Patriots are coming off a BYE and they’re playing a questionable defense, you should pounce, like this week when they play the 49ers. I think Bellichik has his players prepared and rested up for this one and you should see according results. They also have this guy Moss to throw to. I hear he’s open. 250yrds, 2 TD’s, 3 for 25yrds
David Garrard (JAC) – He’s affectionately known as the Steeler killer around these parts. While I don’t think Jacksonville wins this game, I do believe Garrard finds the open space in the zone and connects with his receivers on short and intermediate routes. The run game will struggle despite its past success, and that will leave Garrard as the playmaker in this one. 225yrds, 1 TD, 5 for 40yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Matt Hasselbeck (SEA) – Hasselbeck is coming out of his BYE and he’s finally getting his main receivers back, but he’s facing a very tough Giants defense that will be in his face all day creating problems. Plus, Branch and Engram won’t play the entire game and the other receivers are suspect at best. With no big name QB’s on BYE this week, you should be able to do better. 225yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
Jon Kitna (DET) – Kitna is coming off an injured knee and is facing the Bears this week. I expect a lot of turnovers and sacks and Kitna might not finish the game. While he has the weapons outside to make plays, the lack of a running game and questionable offensive line play make Kitna a poor choice this week. 200yrds, 2 TD’s, 3 INT’s, 2 FUM
RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Brian Westbrook, Marshawn ####, Larry Johnson, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Marion Barber, Reggie Bush
INJURY WATCH: Adrian Peterson(MIN), Brian Westbrook(PHI), Willie Parker(PIT), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Darren McFadden(OAK), Justin Fargas(OAK), Ahman Green(HOU), Laurence Maroney(NEP), Lamont Jordan(NEP), Maurice Morris(SEA), Rashard Mendenhall(PIT), Chris Perry(CIN), Kenny Watson(CIN)
Start
Steve Slaton (HOU) – I’m on the Slaton bandwagon. After a tough Week 1 against the Steelers, Slaton has racked up the yards on the ground and through the air and scored in each of his last two games. This week he faces a Colts defense that surrenders over 150yrds to opposing backs. Gary Kubiak knows that his best defense this week will be to control the ball and keep Peyton Manning off the field. Slaton is flourishing in the same system that produced all of those Denver 1000yrd backs. 125yrds, 1 TD, 5 for 50yrds, 1 TD
Earnest Graham (TB) – Graham has been an odd cat this year, posting solid numbers through the first four weeks or the season, despite being shutout week 3. If you look at Graham’s numbers though, you’ll see he’s had two big runs late in week’s 2 and 4 that got him his big numbers for those games. With Brian Griese continuing to be generous to the opposing team with his constant turnovers, Graham should be the benefactor of a more conservative approach this week. He also goes up against a Broncos defense that nearly surrendered a 200yrd game last week. 100yrds, 2 TD’s, 2 for 15yrds
Sit
Chris Johnson/Lendale White (TEN) – Difficult to normally sit either of these guys, but I think Tennessee struggles this week at Baltimore. I expect a very physical game, where both teams will grind it out on offense and try to put their defenses and special teams in a position to win the game. Baltimore comes in as the number one defense in the league against the run, and I expect them to leave this week the same. Unless you’re a Steven Jackson owner, I’d stay away this week. 50-60yrds each, 0.50 TD’s each, 2 for 15yrds each
Michael Turner (ATL) – While Turner has been potent through his first four games, I expect the Falcons to stall this week in Green Bay. The Packers will load up against Turner and force Matt Ryan to try and beat them through the air. While he may score once this week, I see yardage very tough to come by as Atlanta will be forced to throw later in the game to try and make up ground. 30-40yrds, 1 TD, 2 for 15yrds
WR – Brandon Marshall, Terrell Owens, Reggie Wayne, Larry Fitzgerald, Greg Jennings, Calvin Johnson, Steve Smith(CAR), T.J. Houshmanzedah
INJURY WATCH: Marques Colston(NO), Anquan Boldin(ARI), Javon Walker(OAK), Reggie Brown(PHI), Kevin Curtis(PHI), Jerry Porter(JAC), Joey Galloway(TBB), Sidney Rice(MIN), Bernard Berrian(MIN), Deion Branch(SEA), Bobby Engram(SEA), Donte Stallworth(CLE), Devin Hester(CHI), David Patten(NO)
Start
Robert Meachem/Lance Moore (NO) – Besides Reggie Bush, there’s no one on the Saints left to throw to for at least the next two weeks. Both Moore and Meachem benefited from the absence of Colston, Shockey and a limited David Patten, and they’ll do the same this Monday Night when the Saints play the Vikings. Not that the Saints run all that much anyway, but this game should see even less. Get those Saints WR’s in your lineup. 5 for 100yrds each, 1 TD each
Matt Jones (JAC) – Jones will benefit from the Steelers aggressive blitzing and soft zone coverage, finding the holes much like Derrick Mason did this past Monday Night. If Garrard gets time to set up in the pocket, Jones should be open in a variety of areas on the field. Jones has also had success against the Steelers smaller cornerbacks in the red-zone, often winning many jump balls. 6 for 85yrds, 1 TD
Sit
Donald Driver (GB) – It’s obvious that the torch has been passed in the Green Bay receiving corp. Driver is getting about half the amount of looks that Jennings is receiving right now and there’s no sure bet that Rodgers will play this week. You’d figure that Driver would benefit from the doubles that roll Jennings way, but that hasn’t been the case. There are some good receivers on BYE this week, but Driver should only be used if you’re in a tight spot. 4 for 40yrds
Andre Johnson (HOU) – I thought you should never sit your studs?!? Hey, these types of calls are why they pay me the big bucks, err… something like that. If you look at what happened last week, you’ll see the reason for this predict. Indianapolis is tops in the league against the pass, (only because they’re last against the run) and Johnson will be paid extra attention this week. Kevin Walter benefited similarly last week, and the Texans are going to run the ball and use short dump offs to keep the pass rush at bay. A touchdown this week, maybe. 3 for 50yrds
TE – Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzalez, Kellen Winslow, Chris Cooley
INJURY WATCH: Tony Gonzalez(KC), Jeremy Shockey(NO), L.J. Smith(PHI), Randy McMichael(STL), Ben Watson(NEP), Leonard Pope(ARI)
Start
Anthony Fasano (MIA) – The TE is the go to receiver in the Miami offense and Fasano has scored in two out of three games this year. They’ve had two weeks to prepare for San Diego, who also happens to give up more catches, yards, and TD’s to TE’s than any other defense in the league. The Chargers will have to focus on stopping Ronnie Brown, leaving Fasano open in the middle of the field. 5 for 75yrds, 1 TD
K – Nick Folk, Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, Rob Bironas, Nate Kaeding, David Akers
Start
Jeff Reed (PIT) – Reed is on the verge of becoming an every week start for fantasy owners. Why? He hasn’t missed a FG yet this season, converting all 7 attempts, including 4 of 40yrds and 1 50yrd. His XP to FG ratio right now is 8-7, which is the minimum you want from your fantasy kicker. I expect Reed to continue to have success as the Steelers offense stalls in field goal range against the tough defenses they face this year. 2 XP’s, 3 FG’s
Carolina Panthers – For the second week in a row I’m touting the Panthers. Though they didn’t create any turnovers last week, they are at home again and will play a Chiefs team that looked a lot better last week than they really are. Look for a low yards and points against and a few turnovers to go along an overall solid performance. There are no high profile defenses on BYE this week, so play your regulars and if you’re a NY Jets defense owner, get the Panthers in there if you need some help. <299 YA, <14 PA, 4 sacks, 1 INT, 1 FUM
Week 3 of the NFL is in the books, and it will be a forgettable one for a lot of teams, I’m sure. There are still six undefeated teams to go along with the six winless teams. Things are starting to shake out like many thought they would with some glaring exceptions in the AFC South and East. Things in that conference are pretty much up in the air right now, with some very unexpected front runners heading up their respective divisions. And in the era of the salary cap and the infamous parity that exists; the NFL surely considers all of this good and bad.
GOOD
The New England Patriots lost, excuse me, got pounded at home by the hapless Miami Dolphins. Note to the league, the Patriots are a shell of their former selves without Tom Brady at QB. It also didn’t help that Maroney and Jordan both missed this game with some kind of injury. Why this is in the good column, because everyone outside of Boston and its surrounding areas was cheering when they saw what was happening in Foxboro. People love to hate Bill Belichick and the Pats, and this season is shaping up to be one big love-fest.
The Browns and Bengals both lost their games this past week, leaving them scraping at the bottom of the AFC North and winless at 0-3. This is shaping up to be a one and a half pony race for this division. Oh yeah, they play each other this week, so someone's gonna be 0-4, ouch.
BAD
The Steelers lost their first game of the season this past Sunday in ugly fashion, getting outscored and out-coached by the Philly Eagles. It’s no new news that Pittsburgh hasn’t won in Philly in quite some time. This was a very winnable game in my mind, but the Steeler coaching staff made no attempt to adjust to the all-out blitz Philly ran on EVERY play. There were no draws, no screens, and only the occasional quick hitter to a wide receiver that produced results. The one deep ball that was thrown was intercepted, albeit early in the game, but there wasn’t another ball thrown deep again. It was a hard fought game, and one that was totally winnable. I’m not sure why Max Starks did not make an appearance at RT or another position. In that situation, what’s the worst that could happen; he’d give up a sack?
Fantasy Note
I got crushed in my Fantasy Game this past week, against what I believe is the best team in our league. I managed a measly one touchdown from my players, that coming from Drew Brees. The yardage was okay, but when you only get 4 total points from Brian Westbrook, Earnest Graham, and Andre Johnson, you’re going to be in trouble. Yes, Westbrook was injured in that game, but the production still needs to come from the other players and needs to be more than that. My bench almost outscored my starters, scary. So this was my worst game of the year, I expect to bounce back next week. I’ll be without Calvin Johnson this week as the Lions go on their BYE, but I believe I will be able to find a suitable replacement for him. You can keep track of me this season at the below link.
QB – Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tony Romo, Ben Roethlisberger, Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler (removed: Tom Brady)
INJURY WATCH: Ben Roethlisberger(PIT), Matt Hasselbeck(SEA)
Start
Aaron Rodgers (GB) – Again, a lot of other QB’s with great match-ups this week, but considering what Philly did last week with less talent and Green Bay’s lackluster ground game, Rodgers once again should be a very solid start. I think this good be another prime-time shoot-out that leaves owners very pleased with the results. 300yrds, 3 TD’s, 20yrds rushing
J.T. O’Sullivan (SF) – There are other QB’s to consider as a start this week, but O’Sullivan has the benefit of Mike Martz behind him when they host the Lions. I think Martz will be a little motivated to stick it to his old team. I expect the 49ers to throw and throw often, making O’Sullivan a very promising play this week. 300yrds, 3 TD’s
Sit
Derek Anderson (CLE) – It doesn’t get any easier this week for Anderson and the Browns when they travel to Baltimore to take on the rejuvenated Ravens defense. Couple that with the Browns anemic offense and that spells disaster. This will be another low scoring affair with turnovers abound, no ground game, and no chance o####ood performance. 175yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
Matt Schaub (HOU) – I expect a similar outing for Schaub close to what happened in week 1. No running game, sacks, pressures, and turnovers. Who knows, maybe having two weeks to prepare for the Titans will make a difference, but I don’t think this team has the talent to protect Schaub and make enough plays to be worth a start this week. 200yrds, 1 TD, 1 INT, I FUM
RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Brian Westbrook, Steven Jackson, Marshawn ####, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Marion Barber, Willie Parker (removed: Larry Johnson, Joseph Addai)
INJURY WATCH: LaDanian Tomlinson(SD), Michael Turner(ATL), Ryan Grant(GB), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Maurice Jones-Drew(JAC), Fred Taylor(JAC), Darren McFadden(OAK), Justin Fargas(OAK), Ahman Green(HOU), Deuce McAllister(NO), Laurence Maroney(NEP), Brandon Jacobs(NYG)
Start
Julius Jones (SEA) – Besides that fact that he’s the only healthy player on the offense left, he gets the Rams in Seattle this week. While there will be passes a plenty, I expect the ‘Hawks to get the ground game going in a big way. It’s something Holmgren has been trying to do for the last two years and has been unsuccessful in his attempts. Jones should also be able to catch some passes coming out of the backfield. I worry slightly that T.J. Duckett will start to steal the goal line carries, so monitor this in the upcoming weeks. 100-125yrds, 3 for 15-30yrds, 2 TD’s
Maurice Jones-Drew/Fred Taylor (JAC) – Check the injury reports to make sure they’re active. If one is out for this week, boost the others numbers, but I expect both will be active and they will be featured this week against the Colts. Jacksonville needs this game and they’re going to use their run game as their best offense AND best defense. With Bob Sanders out for Indy, there should be even more running run against the Colts. 80-100yrds, 3 for 10-20yrds, 1 TD each
Sit
ALL New England RB’s – Until there is some kind of idea of who’s going to be out there, I’m staying away completely. It’s going to change from week to week due to injuries and the “hot runner” theory. Usually in a time share, there is one guy who starts and another who comes in throughout the game. But when you have 4 to 5 backs getting about the same number of touches a game, it’s a fantasy disaster. Grab them, store them on the bench, and let the inevitable injuries decide who will be the guy. 40 Total Yards each, 0.50 TD’s each
Jamal Lewis (CLE) – Lewis makes the Sit list for the second week in a row and I think it’s warranted. This offense is supposed to be a juggernaut, but a brutal opening schedule has derailed the run game as well as the pass. I think will turn things around, but not this week. This will be a very low scoring game and there’s a chance that Cleveland will fail to find the end zone again. 40-50yrds
WR – Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Reggie Wayne, Braylon Edwards, Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Brandon Marshall, Calvin Johnson, Plaxico Burress, Greg Jennings
INJURY WATCH: Marques Colston(NO), Javon Walker(OAK), Reggie Brown(PHI), Kevin Curtis(PHI), Jerry Porter(JAC), Joey Galloway(TBB), Sidney Rice(MIN), Deion Branch(SEA), Bobby Engram(SEA), Donte Stallworth(CLE), Devin Hester(CHI)
Start
Bryant Johnson (SF) – I really don’t like recommending 49er wide outs, but what’s not to like about this match-up. Martz is out to prove something this week and that means balls will be flying all over the field with Johnson be a major benefactor. I think they’re going to try to run up the score, so don’t worry about San Fran getting up big then running. 7 for 125-150yrds, 2 TD’s
Bernard Berrian (MIN) – With Tavaris Jackson finally riding the pine, Berrian will get a chance to supplement Minnesota’s powerful running game. Carolina’s defense has been solid against the run, so I expect some deep balls this week to make it easier for A.P. and company. And you know there’s no one better in the league than catching the deep ball than Berrian. And if by some chance Minnesota gets down, Frerotte can deliver more accurate balls later in games. 4 for 100-125yrds, 1 TD
Sit
ALL Cincinnati WR’s – Talk about floundering expectations, the Bengals are in some trouble and things are no brighter this week as they take on the Defending champs. It’s difficult to catch the ball when your QB is constantly getting blasted around before he gets a chance to throw. The Giants defense is no joke, and they’ll have pressure in Palmer’s face all day, leading to a dismal performance on the outside. 3 for 30-50yrds each
Lee Evans (BUF) – Evans has been a solid performer despite the big play passing game that owners may have been hoping for. Buffalo has also been up in their games and more concerned about controlling and shortening the game. Evans will draw the coverage of one of the better cover guys in the league in Asamwha, couple that with the idea that the Bills will be up in this one and looking to control the clock. I expect a low scoring game for both sides, curbing Evans appeal this week. 4 for 50-60yrds
TE – Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzalez, Kellen Winslow, Chris Cooley
INJURY WATCH: Jason Witten(DAL)
Start
L.J. Smith (PHI) – I expect the Steelers to play a deep Zone with underneath flat coverage to contain Jackson downfield and Westbrook out of the backfield. TE’s have preformed well against the Steelers because they are allowed to run free in front of the Linebackers. 5 for 65yrds, 1 TD
Robert Royal (BUF) – Though Royal disappeared last week, I expect him to bounce back this week. Oakland will concentrate on applying pressure on Edwards and stopping the run game. This opens up the middle perfectly for Royal to exploit with his big body and solid route running skills. The yards probably won’t be spectacular but a TD looks like a good prospect. 4 for 30yrds, 1 TD
K – Nick Folk, Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, Rob Bironas, Nate Kaeding
Start
Matt Prater (DEN) – The Broncos appear to be a high powered team and given their schedule, I’d say Prater has a chance to become a must start every week, especially kicking in Denver where the ball soars for many 50-yarders. Denver is at the mile-high this week against the Saints, who don’t really stop teams that often. Look for a good output this week and potentially every week going forward. 3 FG’s, 3 XP’s
John Kasay (CAR) – Carolina’s offense has played well and now they get Steve Smith back from suspension. They should move the ball between the 20’s nicely, but will probably stall more than often once the field shortens. Kasay has connected on all of his attempts so far and gets to play inside, fee of the weather’s influence. 3 FG’s, 1 XP
Tampa Bay – Chicago’s offense is nothing close to what would even be considered efficient. I’m going to say the Bears DEF will outscore their offense 7-6, so that’ll give them 13 points. I would start with confidence as the yardage against will also be on the low side. 13-16 PA, <250YA, 3 sacks, 1 INT, 2 FUM
Atlanta Falcons – A spot start here and a promising outlook for this unit for the coming weeks. They’ve played well enough to keep the team in the games and they are at home this week against the worst team in the league in the Chiefs. Someone named Thigpen is going to start for them this week, and Larry Johnson has all but had it with his coaches and the play calling. Look for Atlanta to take advantage of all these things and produce some nice numbers. 6-13 PA, <225YA, 4 sacks, 1 INT
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.
1.(1) New England Patriots (14-0)(AFC1). Last: WON 20-10 against New York Jets. It's not a good sign when this offensive machine gets a mere one offensive touchdown. Granted the weather was bad, but it's December. Do you think it's going to get any better? I know the teams they play in January will.
2.(2) Indianapolis Colts (12-2)(AFC2). Last: WON 21-14 at Oakland Raiders. The Colts puzzled me on Sunday by playing right into the strength of the Raider defense. Was Manning trying to prove a point? I think Addai had like 8yrds on 5 carries at half-time. Manning wised up in the second half and ran the ball more, resulting in a win. The Raiders racked up big yards on the ground and that's never a good sign when you want to advance deep into January.
3.(3) Dallas Cowboys (12-2)(NFC1). Last: LOST 6-10 against Philadelphia Eagles. The Cowboys are like the Patriots in that if their QB goes down or gets injured, the team is not that good. Dallas better hope that Romo can play at a high level this week at Carolina, because they do not want to have to go to Lambeau in January. Carolina shut down a fully functioning Seattle offense last week, and a Romo at 50% will not cut it. Dallas needs to do a better job of running the ball this week to take the pressure off the injured QB.
4.(4) Green Bay Packers (12-2)(NFC2). Last: WON 33-14 at St. Louis Rams. The Green machine keeps rolling and Brett Favre keeps breaking NFL passing records. His latest wiping away of Dan Marino came in the category of Career Passing Yards, that's a big one. They play at Soldier Field this week, and even though the Bears have nothing left to play for, they will show up for this one knowing they can derail the Packers chances at clinching Home Field Advantage for the playoffs. I still think the Packers pull through in this one, but this could be one of those classic NFC North battles.
5.(5) Jacksonville Jaguars (10-4)(AFC5). Last: WON 29-22 at Pittsburgh Steelers. The Jaguars managed to walk away from Pittsburgh with a win, the only team to do so this season. The run game looked good against the number one rush defense and they get to play the Raiders this week who are not so good against the run. The game is in Jacksonville and the Raiders are without Justin Fargas. This game screams blow-out. Man, the Raiders are pathetic.
6.(8) San Diego Chargers (9-5)(AFC3). Last: WON 51-14 against Detroit Lions. The Chargers are on cruise control right now thanks to the easy schedule that's bumped them into the #3 spot in the AFC playoff bracket. They're at home again this Monday Night against the wilting Broncos. The ground game will be in full force and L.T. may once again be on watching the game from the sidelines in the second half. There's nothing better than a Christmas Eve stomping. The Chargers will keep winning so they prolong having to face New England as long as possible. I'm still predicting a first round loss for them though.
7.(6) Pittsburgh Steelers (9-5)(AFC4). Last: LOST 22-29 against Jacksonville Jaguars. The Steelers need to get their act together really quick or they'll be playing in a wild card spot instead of as the Division Champs. They should be able to beat the Rams this week. The Steelers defense needs to improve in stopping the run and tackling better because Steven Jackson is not an easy back to bring down. Hopefully this game doesn't turn into a shoot-out. If the Steelers win, they're in. They need a two wins or a win and a Browns loss to clinch the Division. I still have faith, you should too!
8.(7) Seattle Seahawks (9-5)(NFC3). Last: LOST 10-13 at Carolina Panthers. I'm not sure what happened to Seattle this past Sunday, but Carolina is not that good. They've clinched the Division and I'm sure where you'd rather play? Dallas and Green Bay will both be difficult venues. Anyway, they should be able to handle the Ravens this week, especially since they're at home. They won't be able to run this week, so pass protection and pass execution will be the determining factor. Seattle should be able to slow down the Ravens offense with Kyle Boller at the helm. Watch in this one to see if Troy Smith gets in the game. His big arm and play-making ability could cause problems for the Seahawk defense.
9.(10) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-5)(NFC4). Last: WON 37-3 against Atlanta Falcons. The Buccs destroyed the Falcons, but so has everyone else. They get to play this week at San Francisco and I expect the Buccs defense to give the 49ers offense fits all day. Jeff Garcia rights the ship and Earnest Graham has been dominant in the run game. All of this equals bad things for the '9ers. I'll also mention that Tampa Bay returned a kickoff for a TD for the first time in team HISTORY! Way to go guys, congrats.
10.(11) Minnesota Vikings (8-6)(NFC6). Last: WON 20-13 against Chicago Bears. The turn-over bug was biting the Vikings hard this past Monday Night, but they showed they have the personnel to overcome such adversity. The Vikings get another primetime game this week as they host the Redskins. This game has huge playoff implications. If they Vikings lose, the Redskins would have the same record and own the head to head tie-breaker. If the Saints also win their game, the picture gets even cloudier for the Vikings. It's simple, win and you control you own destiny.
11.(9) New York Giants (9-5)(NFC5). Last: LOST 10-22 against Washington Redskins. The Giants have to be worried based on what happened this past Sunday Night. Eli Manning was terrible. Now, I know the wind was bad, but why didn't Collins have any major issues? I watched Eli Manning, on numerous occasions, throw a check down to the running backs and the pass was dropped. Look, I understand that the running back has to make the catch, but when you’re standing less than five yards away from the QB and he's launching 50mph footballs at you, unless it’s a perfect pass into your chest, you're probably not going to catch it. And that's what was happening. Oh yeah, Shockey's out for the year. I say they still handle Buffalo this week by RUNNING THE FOOTBALL!
12.(12) Cleveland Browns (9-5)(AFC6). Last: WON 8-0 against Buffalo Bills. Wow what crazy weather there was this past week. None was crazier though than in Cleveland. The Browns were able to run and that's really the only thing you can do in weather like that. They're just a tie-breaker away from pulling into the division lead over Pittsburgh. The Browns need to win out and hope that the Steelers lose at least one of their last two for that to happen. They play at Cincinnati this week and divisional games are always tough. I have a very close friend who's a huge Browns fan and he said they'll lose this week, so there you go.
13.(13) Tennessee Titans (8-6). Last: WON 26-17 at Kansas City Chiefs. The Titans are barely alive in the playoff hunt, so they need to keep winning to have a chance. Things are looking good for them as they're at home against the Jets. If they keep running the ball like they have, I don't see how they lose this one. The defense should be able to keep the Jets offense in check. Could the AFC South send three teams to the Playoffs? Sure.
14.(14) New Orleans Saints (7-7). Last: WON 31-24 against Arizona Cardinals. Funny, I've been toting the Saints around as one of my fave teams pretty much the whole year. Now the dorks over at ESPN are calling the Saints their sleeper playoff team for this year. What a bunch of losers. They need to win at home against the Eagles this week and another win next week to keep their hopes alive. The Eagles were eliminated last week, so I don't know if they've got anything left to play for. Drew Brees is doing everything he can to get this team back to the playoffs, unfortunately, they aren't in control of their situation. They need a Redskins win this week, then a Redskins loss next week to make it happen.
15.(15) Houston Texans (7-7). Last: WON 31-13 against Denver Broncos. I was criticized last week for including the Texans and Saints over the Bills in the Power 16. The Texans have the daunting task of trying to take out Indy in Indy. Tony Dungy said this week that there will be no rest for the starters this year and that spells bad news for the Texans. The Colts have too many weapons, but can be slowed down with a strong pass rush. Super Mario and the rest of the Texans d-line can bring the heat, but you have to get there. Matt Schaub probably returns this week. He'll look for Andre Johnson early and often in this one, while sprinkling in some run game to keep the aggressive defense on its heels. Good luck.
16.(NR) Washington Redskins (7-7). Last: WON 22-10 at New York Giants. The Redskins round out the Power 16 this week with their strong effort in the elements at New York this past week. I don't think Jason Campbell is quite ready for this one, so someone else will have to step up for the 'skins. They have to play at Minnesota in another Sunday Night game. The Redskins need Cooley to get involved, then bust the defense with draw plays. Stopping Adrian Peterson is the number one task for the defense. Accomplish this and you can win.
Week 15 played out as easily the oddest week in the NFL season to date. The weather for some of the games was just absolutely ridiculous! Most of all was the Bill and Browns in Cleveland. Wow, that was pretty awesome to watch, unless you like people facing on their faces, slipping and sliding every time they try to make a cut, and a total of eight whole points scored. Still, watching some of the players perform in those conditions was marveling. Braylon Edwards come to mind in this game. He made some unbelievable catches and deserved to go to the Pro-Bowl. Onto the week in review...
HIGHS
Congratulations to the Miami Dolphins for winning their first game of the season. Boy, what does that say about the Ravens? Keep reading below and I'll tell you. The Dolphins made the plays, the Ravens got way too conservative later in the game and the Dolphins won. Do you think it had anything to do with all the great '72 Dolphins that were on hand for the game? I thought it would have been a way cooler story line had the Dolphins been winless going into their game with the unbeaten Pats, and then find a way to pull the biggest upset in NFL history. Now that's a story.
I loved watching the Houston Texans pound the Denver Broncos last Thursday Night. I don't know if matters to me who is kicking the #### out of the Broncos, as long as they're doing it. The Broncos have been eliminated from the playoffs for a second straight season and I popped the champagne bottles to celebrate!
Congratulations to Ben Roethlisberger, Willie Parker, Alan Faneca, James Harrison, and Troy Polamalu for making the AFC Pro Bowl Team.
LOWS
The Steelers found another way to lose this past weekend. It came down to not being able to stop the run late in the game and the inability of the defense to tackle. I'm sorry, but Fred Taylor is not THAT good! I said it last week; Aaron Smith being out for the year would hurt this defense more than anything else. At least the weather can't be a factor this week as they go play the Lambs in a dome. The Steelers still control their own destiny at this point which is all you can ask for with only two games to play. They should win this week, but I'm starting to get a bit worried. One last thing about the game against the Jags. The second TD pass bothered me. The Jags motioned into trips bunch left then snapped the ball. I saw what was coming as soon as I saw the formation; it bothers me that our defense didn't see it at all. So here it is, the classic illegal pick play. The middle receiver runs an 8yrd hook, the inside receiver runs an out-slant and the outside receiver runs an in-slant, picking off the defender of the inside receiver as he goes by. The inside receiver is now on the outside, wide open in the flat for the TD!!! Was there a flag? I don't even need to say it.
The Baltimore Ravens are a sad, sad team. They've got nothing to play for going into this past weekend, yet they played so tight to the vest. Brian Billick is supposed to be the offensive guru, ha, yeah right! He's going to start Kyle Boller this week. Are you kidding me! Why would you go with this guy now when you've already said he's not good enough to be your starter. I'm sorry to say this, but Troy Smith for President. Get this guy in the game! So what if he's short, he's got a cannon for an arm and can make plays with his feet if need be. What's the problem? You drafted this guy right? What do you have to lose, except two more games I guess.
1.(1) New England Patriots (13-0)(AFC1). Last: WON 34-13 against Pittsburgh Steelers.#### hum, the Patriots won again.
2.(3) Indianapolis Colts (11-2)(AFC2). Last: WON 44-20 at Baltimore Ravens. The Colts looked impressive this past Sunday Night destroying the Ravens. The offense is back to that Colts offense that we've come to fear and the defense ranks in the top five in all major categories in yards and points against. Marvin Harrison probably won't play again this week, but I don't think it will matter. He just needs to get in game shape for the playoffs and the Colts meeting with the Patriots again. A trip to Oakland this week keeps the offensive machine rolling.
3.(2) Dallas Cowboys (12-1)(NFC1). Last: WON 28-27 against Detroit Lions. The Lions gave the game away on many occasions and the Cowboys were very, very lucky to come out with a victory. Some teams just have other teams’ numbers and the Lions seem to have the Cowboys. I don't think the Cowboys have to worry about playing the Lions again, so they'll be fine. They get Philly at home this week and should roll, but you never know how these divisional games will go. A win here clinches a first round bye.
4.(4) Green Bay Packers (11-2)(NFC2). Last: WON 38-7 against Oakland Raiders. The Packers handled their business like they should have at home against one of the worst teams in the league. They've already clinched the division and are likely to grab the other first round bye in the NFC. They play at the hapless Rams this week, so look for Favre and company to continue the offensive output. The run game has been superb lately, and that's what it will take to beat the Cowboys come playoff time.
5.(6) Jacksonville Jaguars (9-4)(AFC5). Last: WON 37-6 against Carolina Panthers. I'm giving Jacksonville the edge this week in the rankings because they won last week, although they played an absolutely pathetic team. T
