(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
Week 4 of the NFL is in the books and there were some great games that included a lot of great upsets. There are three less undefeated teams this week as the Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, and Dallas Cowboys all lost. In the same light, some teams finally picked up their first win of the season. The real set of first BYE weeks has passed and other teams BYE weeks are approaching, and are very much needed. Some big injuries to a lot of high profile players also highlighted this past week’s games. Winning will always be GOOD to fans and players. While losing isn’t very much fun, the injuries sustained this week to players are most definitely BAD.
GOOD
The Steelers came out on Monday Night holding most all of the records for Monday Night wins and home records, and a whole bunch of other things that really aren’t that important. The Ravens got the ball, and after a serious injury on the opening kickoff, went three and out. The Steelers got the ball, marched nicely down the field, stalled, and converted a 49yrd field goal. Then things went south after Ben Roethlisberger tried to pull a pump fake down and the ball slipped from his hands, and traveled right into the hands of a defender. From that point, things seemed bleak as the Ravens rattled off 13 straight points and the Steeler offense struggled mightily. Then things all changed on a late hit out of bounds by a Raven. The Steelers scored two TD’s in a matter of 15 seconds and the game was a game all of a sudden.
I’m very disappointed in the Steeler play calling during the first three quarters, as they made no adjustments for the second week in a row and went three and out six straight drives at one point. It took Ben Roethlisberger getting in the face of the offensive coordinator and demanding they go no huddle to change things up. Why does the player have to come up with this idea?
NOTE: On the opening kickoff, Andre Frazier, a Steeler backup linebacker and key special teams contributor, was injured by a blindside hit from a Ravens player. Usually I’m for the big hits in games as long as they happen within the game. The problem I have with this hit is, when you watch the replay, the Ravens player ran backwards and towards Frazier the whole play, never taking his eye from him, and lined up a dirty hit that knocked Frazier out and out of the game on a stretcher. I hope the league looks at this play, because a fine and suspension should definitely be in order.
BAD
I don’t think losing a game here and there is all that bad for players. You must face these situations throughout a season to build better character and to prepare yourself for adversity so you can handle the situation better the next time it happens. Crying and complaining about how things went down in your first loss of the season is not the way to do things. Be a team player, take responsibility, and own up to the fact that you didn’t play your best and you lost. It’s nearly impossible to go undefeated in this league, so wouldn’t you want to lose early in the season and get it out of the way rather than lose, let’s say, in January? It’s inevitable, deal with it and move on.
Fantasy Note
A big win for Zombie Nation this week in fantasy: Desperation. I was a 49pt underdog according to ESPN’s projections (ha!), but managed to put up 107pts to beat my divisional rival and improve to 3-1 (2nd Overall). In my three wins this season, I’ve scored over 100pts in each game. In my one loss, I couldn’t crack the 70pt mark. It’s nice to see my team perform without Calvin Johnson (BYE) and Brian Westbrook (INJ). This week I play the Top team in the league.
BYE WEEK: Patriots, Colts, Dolphins, NY Giants, Lions, Seahawks
QB – Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tony Romo, Ben Roethlisberger, Donovan McNabb, Jay Cutler
INJURY WATCH: Ben Roethlisberger(PIT), Donovan McNabb(PHI), Matt Hasselbeck(SEA), Brett Favre(GB), Damon Huard(KC)
Start
J.T. O’Sullivan(SF) – If you followed my advice from last week, you were rewarded by O’Sullivan to a quality start of 16-23, 189yrds, 2 TD’s, and 0 Turnovers. With a shootout brewing in New Orleans this week, I expect very similar numbers. The defense will concentrate on slowing Gore, leaving a lot of single coverage on the outside. San Francisco has the receivers to take advantage of those situations. 250yrds, 2 TD’s
Trent Edwards(BUF) – Edwards and the Buffalo offense are hot right now, and there’s no reason to see that trend not continuing this week in St. Louis. The Rams are the most dysfunctional team in the league outside of Kansas City and Edwards will be able to take advantage downfield as the defense attempts to contain Marshawn ####. Though Roscoe Parrish will not play this week, Buffalo has the receivers to make the big plays. 225yrds, 2 TD’s
Sit
Marc Bulger/Trent Green(STL) – St. Louis has announced they are going with Trent Green this week. Bulger may quickly become a fantasy afterthought if Green comes out and performs. The Rams can’t do any worse at this point and it’s possible Green can spark something in this offense, relegating Bulger to the bench until Green gets hurt, which seems inevitable at this point in his career.
Aaron Rodgers(GB) – May be a reach here, but I think Rodgers and the Green Bay offense will struggle at Tampa Bay. It’s hard to sit Rodgers this week with so many high profile QB’s on BYE, but if you have two capable QB’s, I think Rodgers should be benched. Though he has the receivers to make the plays, I expect him to be under pressure all day and scrambling around in the backfield. If he continues to run as much as he has through the first three weeks, he won’t last much longer this season. 250yrds, 1 TD, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
RB – LaDanian Tomlinson, Adrian Peterson, Brian Westbrook, Steven Jackson, Marshawn ####, Larry Johnson, Clinton Portis, Frank Gore, Marion Barber, Willie Parker, Reggie Bush, Michael Turner
INJURY WATCH: Adrian Peterson(MIN), Brian Westbrook(PHI), Steven Jackson(STL), Willie Parker(PIT), Willis Mcgahee(BAL), Darren McFadden(OAK), Justin Fargas(OAK), Ahman Green(HOU), Deuce McAllister(NO), Laurence Maroney(NEP), Lamont Jordan(NEP), Maurice Morris(SEA)
Start
Jonathan Stewart(CAR) – I can’t see why Stewart won’t receive the bulk of the carries this week against Atlanta. It’s obvious he’s a much better back than Williams, and there has to be something with his blocking that is keeping him from being an every down back. I expect Carolina to continue to be a run first team and pick their spots to go downfield. That means a lot of touches for Stewart and a lot of opportunity to score. 100yrds, 2 TD’s
Jamal Lewis(CLE) – This is the week that Lewis finally gets it going. The Browns are desperate for a win and they can’t afford to fall to last place in the AFC North. They know that if they lose this game, they’re all but eliminated from playoff contention. With Anderson struggling, I expect to see a lot of Lewis to alleviate the pressure on the offense. 100yrds, 2 TD’s
Sit
Philadelphia RB’s – Brian Westbrook might play this week, but I highly doubt it. Even if he does play, given his condition, it will be a time-split and that spells trouble, especially against the Chicago defense. This could end up like last week’s game against Pittsburgh; very low scoring, with defenses dominating. 30-40yrds each, 3 for 15-20yrds each, 0.33 TD each
Edgerrin James(ARI) – I think it’s only a matter of time before James rides the pine or comes off the bench in a relief role. He just doesn’t have it anymore, and the other RB in Arizona seems to be taking more and more away from him with each passing week. Speaking of passing, there’s also going to be a lot of that from Arizona this week. Couple that with the fact that James doesn’t get the goal-line carries and that equals a Fantasy Benching. 50-60yrds, 2 for 15yrds
WR – Terrell Owens, Reggie Wayne, Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Brandon Marshall, Calvin Johnson, Plaxico Burress, Greg Jennings, Anquan Boldin (removed: Randy Moss, Braylon Edwards)
INJURY WATCH: Chad Johnson(CIN), Marques Colston(NO), 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), Roscoe Parrish(BUF), David Patten(NO)
Start
Dwayne Bowe(KC) – You wouldn’t know it by his numbers, but Bowe actually leads the league in targets so far this season. Damon Huard is expected to start this week, and that gives Bowe the best chance to succeed in this offense. The Chiefs will have to abandon the run early in this one to keep pace with Denver and that means lots of opportunity for Bowe. This is his week to shine. 7 for 125yrds, 1 TD
Hines Ward/Santonio Holmes(PIT) – The Steelers were embarrassed last week at Philly, surrendering nine sacks and managing zero touchdowns. I don’t see that happening again this week. This is a Monday Night game at home where there’s nobody better than the Steelers. Think back to last year’s first meeting between these teams. Everyone’s going to overrate Baltimore based on their record against two very bad teams. A rookie RB starting will lead to many passing opportunities. 6 for 80-90yrds each, 1 TD each
Sit
Braylon Edwards(CLE) – Again, very difficult to sit such an explosive receiver, but Edwards is at the bottom of the barrel right now in Fantasy points through the first three weeks. Cincinnati did an excellent job of shutting down Plaxico Burress last week and I expect them to do the same to Edwards this week. Until you see something from Anderson, like a good game or him on the bench, I’d wait on Edwards unless the BYE week has made you desperate. 4 for 30-40yrds
TE – Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzalez, Kellen Winslow, Chris Cooley
INJURY WATCH: Jeremy Shockey(NO), L.J. Smith(PHI), Ben Watson(NEP)
Start
Billy Miller(NO) – With Shockey, Colston, and potentially Patten on the sidelines for a while, Miller becomes a strong option this week with six teams on their BYE. This would be a great opportunity for a Shockey, Dallas Clark, or Anthony Fasano owner to make up those lost points. San Francisco has been generous in its defense this season and Brees is going to be slinging the ball all over the place. 6 for 40-50yrds, 1 TD
K – Nick Folk, Mason Crosby, Stephen Gostkowski, Adam Vinatieri, Rob Bironas, Nate Kaeding, Robbie Gould
Start
Phil Dawson(CLE) – I think the Browns get back on track this week because they need to. That still doesn’t mean they’re going to score a lot of touchdowns, but I do think they’ll score a lot of points. Cincinnati did a good job of slowing down the Giants last week, stalling many drives in field goal range. 3 FG’s, 2 XP’s
Carolina Panthers – Though the Panthers are a little ####ed up, I expect their game-plan this week will be to control the ball and keep Michael Turner off the field. Their secondary will limit Roddy White and pressure Matt Ryan into making rookie mistakes. By shortening the game and scoring, they should force Atlanta into throwing late and taking advantage of the situation. This figures to be one of the lower scoring games this week and if you’re in a pinch for a defense, Carolina could pay good dividends. <300 YA, <17 PA, 4 sacks, 2 INT’s, 1 FUM
(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
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
