Hello Seahawk Nation!

Today I received an unusual post to a blog I wrote in October 2007 regarding Mack Strong and his career in Seattle from his Mother-In-Law who is calling to arms his fans to help not only to induct him to the Seahawks Ring of Honor (a tribute I am sure he will undoubtfully receive) , but rather to have his #38 retired in Seattle.

Please read that post to see her response and you will know how unusual Mack is in today's professional sports, a true role model.

I myself will be sending an email to Seahawks Headquarters requesting that Mack be given this honor and I encourage the rest of you to do the same.

Go to www.seahawks.com and on the bottom of the page is a "contact us" link and then there is a fan feedback form. Fill that out and under categories pick "players" and let's get Mack's number retired!!

Go Seahawks!!

A frequent blogger on my posts Dwindy asked me to go out on a limb and do the playoff predictions for the upcoming season.

While I am not a huge fan in playoff predictions let me throw out a few things, first off I am biased, a true blue Seahawk fan, secondly the season has not started yet so my predictions will be based off the "perfect world" and "the teams tendacy".

NFC Predictions:

In the East, I belive the Cowboys will come out on top again this year with a similar record, the Giants had a fairy tale season last year and I will expect them to be either 3rd or 4th in the division. There will be one wild card from this division and I am going out on a limb to say that the Skins will hit double digit victories this season.

Cowboys and Redskins in the East

Back to the unapprecaited West I am a firm believer that the Hawks will win their division by at least three games. There will not be a wil card team coming out of here.

Seahawks in the West

In the North the Vikings will reign supreme, no other team will challenge them for the top spot, though I have this feeling in the pit of my stomach that the Bears will pick up the last spot for the wild card.

Vikings and Bears in the North

South has a whole other feeling to it. I am picking the Saints to win their division, though they will be challenged by the Bucs.

Saints in the South

Breakdown:

1. Cowboys

2. Seahawks

3. Vikings

4. Redskins

5. Saints

6. Bears

Cowboys and Seattle take the 1 & 2 spot for the first round bye. Chicago travels to Minnesota and Skins travel to New Orleans.

Chicago loses to Minnesota by 10 points, AP does damage on the ground and has the Bears doubting their defensive skills.

Skins win on the road in New Orleans. Jim Zorn is showing the league that he is indeed a great coach.

NEXT ROUND.......

Minnesota travels to Seattle to face the Hawks. Luckliy for the Hawks we have this game at home and a great defense to boot. Seattle handles AP and the Vikings and moves back to the NFC Championship Game.

Redskins go to the Big D, here is where I am going to #### off some Cowboy fans. Until Romo can prove he can win in the playoffs I am not a believer. Skins do what the Giants did last year and that is suprise the NFL.

NFC Championship....

Washington @ Seattle, this being Coachs last year the Hawks play their hearts out and walk off Quest Field winners of the NFC again!

Well if you look through my archived posts I did this last year and posted a record of 9-7, not very good :( However I did this before certain injuries took hold, much like I am doing again this year, but what the hell, I have a long summer ahead.

Seattle Seahawks @ Buffalo Bills:

The Bills took alot of people by suprise last season, myself included. While they didn't make the playoffs they still had a great season. Seattle last year had their difficulties on the road and I believe that they will play the Bills tough and walk out of Buffalo with a win, though it will be a hard fought one.

1-0 RECORD

San Francisco 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks:

Okay Seahawk Faithful lets avoid the trash talk to the 49er fans about sweeping them last year after they swept us in 2006. Seattle posted a 7-1 record at home last season and I see that trend continuing. Seattle should pound the 49ers even with the addition of Martz on their coaching staff.

2-0 RECORD

St. Louis Rams @ Seattle Seahawks:

Back to Back Divisional Home Games. This game will set the tone for the NFC West, win and we will be feared again in our division. This game does scare me as the former Ram killer Josh Brown comes back to town with wearing the wrong colors. We cannot allow this game to come down to field goals. Seattle has swept St. Louis the last three years and I for one desire this streak to continue. Seattle wins by a touchdown, anything less then we are in trouble.

3-0 RECORD

Seattle Seahawks @ New York Giants:

This is one of those games where I hope I am wrong. The Giants have their challenges as I am sure you know, they were a horrible home team last year if you remember and unfortunately all good things must come to an end. Seattle does not leave here with a win.

3-1 RECORD

Green Bay Packers @ Seattle Seahawks:

#4 is gone. The Packers destroyed Seattle twice last year, once in the preseason and once in the postseason, these games were not even contests. This game depends entirely on Aaron Rogers...will be be great...or will he be a bust? I am guessing a bust...we must stop their running game or we will fall to .500. I predict Seattle wins at home.

4-1 RECORD

Seattle Seahawks @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers:

Is it just me or does it seem like we are in Tampa Bay every season? This was one of two games that we won on the road last season. Seattle needs to buckle down and continue a Swan Song for Coach and pull out a hard fought victory in Tampa.

5-1 RECORD

Seattle Seahawks @ San Francisco 49ers:

Last season I predicted that we would lose in SF. I am not making that mistake again. Seattles defense is amazing and one that could put Alex Smith on the IR the remainder of the season after this game!

6-1 RECORD

Philadelphia Eagles @ Seattle Seahawks:

The way that we have handled the Eagles the last two times we have played (both games being in Philly) I am guessing the Hawks handle them nicely in Seattle. The noise will disrupt McNabb to the point that he will throw at least 3 INTs. Mark my words.

7-1 RECORD

Seattle Seahawks @ Miami Dolphins:

I don't care what Bill can do in Miami, there is no way that he will find a way to win against Seattle. Our offense can make a few mistakes, the defense wins this game.

8-1 RECORD

Arizona Cardinals @ Seattle Seahawks:

This game takes place on my 30th Birthday. Seattle will win for me :)

9-1 RECORD

Washington Redskins @ Seattle Seahawks:

Jim Zorn comes home. We were able to beat the Skins when they had Joe Gibbs, a legend. Against Zorn I am going with a win, but hey I am biased.

10-1 RECORD

Seattle Seahawks @ Dallas Cowboys:

I cannot go against the Cowboys at this point. This is their house and we have challenges on the road. Cowboys win this game.

10-2 RECORD

New England Patriots @ Seattle Seahawks:

Whew....This is a tough one. Seattle is at home, a very nice advantage, the Pats were 16-0 last season, though that will not happen again. A tough road team versus a tough home team. I will go with the Pats, though I hate doing so, but they are still the team to beat.

10-3 RECORD

Seattle Seahawks @ St. Louis Rams:

This is where the Seahawks dominance against St. Louis ends. Yes I am predicting the Hawks lose three straight.

10-4 RECORD

New York Jets @ Seattle Seahawks:

Now here is where Seattle rebounds, we may lose against one of the teams from New York, but not this one. Seattle hurts the Jets in Seattle.

11-4 RECORD

Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals:

I am sure by this date, not only will Seattle have the NFC West wrapped up, we may even have a first round bye. If that is the case then Arizona will win here, if a first round bye is one the line then we will play hard to win. I am forcasting that there will not be and Arizona wins.

11-5 RECORD

Now this is my forecast and I am sure that you will all agree with me that if this is the way everything ends up we will all be happy!

GO SEAHAWKS!!!

Well I am confused. Why is it Shaun Alexander is still unemployed in the NFL?

New Orleans, Cincinnati, and Denver have obviously declined the option of adding him to their rosters.

Is there something more to the story that we just don't know? Some injury that scares the NFL? I am starting to hear rumors that Shaun may just hang up his cleets and retire, that would be quite unfair to a man who is only two years removed from an MVP season.

As a life long Seahawk fan I want what is best for our team though I do have a couple of questions to all my brothers and sisters in Seahawk Pride.

1. With the supply of HB's we have (Jones, Morris, Duckett) could resigning Shaun to a minimum contract (nothing like he had) hurt us in the long run?

2. How do you think Jones will react to the West Coast Offense?

3. Morris is a proven 3rd down back, if given the chance could he shine?

Lets talk about the obvious. Shaun declined once he cashed that check, now a couple of broken bones also hinder that. Could he with the money and lack of interest in doubt come back with a force and rush for 1,500 yards and 20 TD's to silence his critics?

I think (I think) it wouldn't be a bad decision to get him back on the roster if the money is right...what do you think..I am confused.

Well it finally happened.

Is anyone suprised?

I have heard so many negative things about Shaun Alexander recently and though I believe the Seahawks made the right decision moving forward without him it is still disheartening to see someone who gave so much to the people of Seattle leave that great city.

I do hope that when Shaun's career is finished that he comes home and signs that 1 day contract and retires a Seahawk as he heads toward his rightful place in Canton, Ohio.

Before any of you Shaun Alexander "haters" come forward and say he does not deserve a spot in the Hall of Fame, know your facts:

1. He has 9,429 yards on the ground, that is more than the Great Earl Campbell who last time I check was in the Hall of Fame.

2. He has scored 100 Touchdowns on the ground, that is more than.....

Earl Campbell (74), Joe Perry (71), O.J. Simpson (61), Franco Harris (91), Tony Dorsett (77), Eric Dickerson (90), and Barry Sanders (99). All of these GREAT BACKS are in the Hall of Fame

Shaun also scored more than, Thurman Thomas, Curtis Martin, and Jerome Bettis, these folks will wind up in the HOF.

3. Even with his last two injury prone seasons, he still averages over his career 4.3 yards a carry, that is higher than....

Emmit Smith, Curtis Martin, Marcus Allen, ect....

4. Shaun is #8 on the All Time Rushing Touchdown Leaders and #13 for ALL TIME!

He is ahead of such greats as Barry Sanders and Time Brown. If he gets 13 more TD's in his career he will tie Walter Payton, add on more and he passes Jim Brown, 4 more on top of that and he goes by Cris Carter.

Good luck Shaun and we all wish you the best of luck with your new team whoever they may be (just stay away from St. Louis, we would hate to have to embarress you)

Not to brag (mabye a little, I went nearly undefeated last week with my picks, my only loss was an upset pick Jets over Browns)

Now we move on after a week where I am sure more teams will seperate themselves from the pack. On to the picks.

Thursday, December 13th 2007:

Denver Broncos @ Houston Texans:

Well I am very intrigued by this game. It truly does not have very serious playoff inplications, however both teams are coming off impressive wins last week. Denver was more impressive than Houston and I will choose them to outlast the boys in Texas.

Saturday, December 15th 2007:

Cincinnati Bengals @ San Franscisco 49ers:

Last week I picked the Bengals to beat the Rams...now I have to choose between the poor poor pitiful 49ers and the AFC Bust of 2007. Have to go with the Bengals here.

Sunday, December 16th 2007:

Seattle Seahawks @ Carolina Panthers:

It amazes me that so many people always pick the Panthers to be a top contender and since their last playoff apperance in 2005 they have been busts. With a QB who played high school football with Brett Favres dad going against the interception and sack happy Seattle I predict a long day in Carolina as Seattle destroys the Panthers.

Buffalo Bills @ Cleveland Browns:

I just dont know. I am sensing a downfall for the Browns, however how can I give the Bills respect for beating up on the J-E-T-S. I just can't go with the Bills here but I still feel the Browns will let me down. Cleveland wins.

Tennessee Titans @ Kansas City Chiefs:

I am trying to find a good reason to go with the home team. Sorry can't do it. Titans win.

Baltimore Ravens @ Miami Dolphins:

(snickers...laughs....side hurting) Who is their sane mind could pick the Fin's to Win? Not me....Ravens dismantle...hurt...embarass..the soon to be 0-16 Dolphins.

New York Jets @ New Engalnd Patriots:

This is where "SpyGate" started and if you don't think Bill will make a statement here then you just don't know football. Patriots clear the point spread plus 5.

Arizona Cardinals @ New Orleans Saints:

The Saints are coming off a nice win against Atlanta. The Cards a 5 pick loss to Seattle. Arizona redeems themselves here. It will be a close game, but Cards walk off winners.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Pittsburgh Steelers:

This should be the Monday Night Game. I mean two fantastic teams facing off. The Jags are firing on better cylindars than the Steelers right now. I am just waiting for Pittsburgh to guarentee a win. Jags win in a semi-upset.

Green Bay Packers @ St. Louis Rams:

This is a game I would love to see the Rams win, why you ask (I want a #2 seed). I just dont see it happening. The Pack drops the Rams that much closer to a top 5 pick in the draft.

Atlanta Falcons @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers:

Who cares who the QB is. Tampa rolls to a win.

Indianpolis Colts @ Oakland Raiders:

How is this fair to the Raiders, the get their ####handed to them by the Packers last week and now have to face the Colts. This will not be pretty.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas Cowboys:

Dallas escaped the Lions with a last second touchdown, the Eagles seem to play good enough to lose by 3 or 4 in the 4th. I think it will be a closer game, but Dallas walks away with a win.

Detriot Lions @ San Diego Chargers:

Dont let the Lions performance fool you. This is a team that has lost several straight games. Chargers find a way to win....again.

Washington Redskins @ New York Giants:

The Giants found a way to win against Philly, look for them to repeat the feat against the Skins.

Monday, December 17th 2007:

Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings:

The Bears start the Super Bowl losers curse all over. A team that will not make the playoffs this year. Against the Vikings things dont get easier. This is the hottest team in the NFC right now winning by large margins with their offense clicking. Vikes destroy the Bears.

Not to brag (mabye a little, I went nearly undefeated last week with my picks, my only loss was an upset pick Jets over Browns)

Now we move on after a week where I am sure more teams will seperate themselves from the pack. On to the picks.

Thursday, December 13th 2007:

Denver Broncos @ Houston Texans:

Well I am very intrigued by this game. It truly does not have very serious playoff inplications, however both teams are coming off impressive wins last week. Denver was more impressive than Houston and I will choose them to outlast the boys in Texas.

Saturday, December 15th 2007:

Cincinnati Bengals @ San Franscisco 49ers:

Last week I picked the Bengals to beat the Rams...now I have to choose between the poor poor pitiful 49ers and the AFC Bust of 2007. Have to go with the Bengals here.

Sunday, December 16th 2007:

Seattle Seahawks @ Carolina Panthers:

It amazes me that so many people always pick the Panthers to be a top contender and since their last playoff apperance in 2005 they have been busts. With a QB who played high school football with Brett Favres dad going against the interception and sack happy Seattle I predict a long day in Carolina as Seattle destroys the Panthers.

Buffalo Bills @ Cleveland Browns:

I just dont know. I am sensing a downfall for the Browns, however how can I give the Bills respect for beating up on the J-E-T-S. I just can't go with the Bills here but I still feel the Browns will let me down. Cleveland wins.

Tennessee Titans @ Kansas City Chiefs:

I am trying to find a good reason to go with the home team. Sorry can't do it. Titans win.

Baltimore Ravens @ Miami Dolphins:

(snickers...laughs....side hurting) Who is their sane mind could pick the Fin's to Win? Not me....Ravens dismantle...hurt...embarass..the soon to be 0-16 Dolphins.

New York Jets @ New Engalnd Patriots:

This is where "SpyGate" started and if you don't think Bill will make a statement here then you just don't know football. Patriots clear the point spread plus 5.

Arizona Cardinals @ New Orleans Saints:

The Saints are coming off a nice win against Atlanta. The Cards a 5 pick loss to Seattle. Arizona redeems themselves here. It will be a close game, but Cards walk off winners.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Pittsburgh Steelers:

This should be the Monday Night Game. I mean two fantastic teams facing off. The Jags are firing on better cylindars than the Steelers right now. I am just waiting for Pittsburgh to guarentee a win. Jags win in a semi-upset.

Green Bay Packers @ St. Louis Rams:

This is a game I would love to see the Rams win, why you ask (I want a #2 seed). I just dont see it happening. The Pack drops the Rams that much closer to a top 5 pick in the draft.

Atlanta Falcons @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers:

Who cares who the QB is. Tampa rolls to a win.

Indianpolis Colts @ Oakland Raiders:

How is this fair to the Raiders, the get their ####handed to them by the Packers last week and now have to face the Colts. This will not be pretty.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas Cowboys:

Dallas escaped the Lions with a last second touchdown, the Eagles seem to play good enough to lose by 3 or 4 in the 4th. I think it will be a closer game, but Dallas walks away with a win.

Detriot Lions @ San Diego Chargers:

Dont let the Lions performance fool you. This is a team that has lost several straight games. Chargers find a way to win....again.

Washington Redskins @ New York Giants:

The Giants found a way to win against Philly, look for them to repeat the feat against the Skins.

Monday, December 17th 2007:

Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings:

The Bears start the Super Bowl losers curse all over. A team that will not make the playoffs this year. Against the Vikings things dont get easier. This is the hottest team in the NFC right now winning by large margins with their offense clicking. Vikes destroy the Bears.

Well....I have to say we have proven many of the Seahawk haters that we are the team to beat in the NFC West.

Tied for the 3rd best record in the NFC the Seahawks have been beasts on defense in recent weeks. Think about 9 interceptions in two games....could that be a record???

To All the St. Louis Ram fans (especially TomBradyIsAHomo) all I can say is better luck next year...so much for your rise to the top. Enjoy your top 10 pick in the draft.

To All the San Francisco 49er fans who believed that they were due for a second coming. I do have to admit that I believed that they were going to be more of a threat then the turned out to be, spent all that money in the off season to decline. I just don't want to hear we swept you in 2006.....because my friends we swept you in 2007. The past is the past and you will not hear that from me next year,

To All the Arizona Cardinal fans. Living in Phoenix for years I have a respect for you and root for you whenever you are not playing the Hawks. Good luck the remainder of the season and hope to see you in the Playoffs.

I was happy to see the experts giving Seattle the respect that they deserve, the running game is still below average and in order to make a serious run for the Super Bowl we will need to get that going. The most amazing thing about Seattle is how they can give up the big plays, allow lots of yardage and still win by three touchdowns.

I look at our next three games and see them all as possible wins. Facing an injury plagued Panthers next week in Carolina has the potential of Seattle walking away with a win. Then we play a Baltimore team that has a losing streak longer than Seattles win, we wind out the season in Atlanta where the Falcons will not stand a chance UNLESS Seattle has the #3 or higher seed in the NFC locked up.

Go Hawks! 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007 NFC West Champions.

Well Faithful NFL Fans like many of you I anticipate looking at the Power Rankings each week. It does baffel me how they choose who is the better team. I would like to review the top teams and where their Super Bowl hopes lie.

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1. New England Patriots: Yes they are 12-0 a very impressive record. In their last two games they barely beat the Eagles and if it wasn't for the doomed Ravens coaching staff they would have heard the corks popping across the country as the '72 Dolphins celebrate. They are in one of the weakest divisions in the NFL (see my previous post) and while many see them as a post-season threat I would not be suprised to see them make an early exit in the playoffs. They have challenges this week against the Steelers who have allowed the lowest point total in the NFL face them.

2. Dallas Cowboys: Their only loss is to the above mentioned team. I had concerns about the Cowboys when they played (and almost lost) the Bills. Unlike the Pats they have been winning impressively in recent weeks. The only X Factor is can Tony Romo handle the pressure when it comes to the Playoffs? There is little doubt that he is one of the best QB's in the League, but it took Peyton many years before he reached the promised land.

3. Indianpolis Colts: They played the Pats well until the end. I see them as a dark horse against the Pats. Not alot of people are talking about the Colts who only have two losses this season. Watch out for them when it comes to the postseason. Manning has the #### off his back. No pressure. They have a great chance to make it to Glendale.

4. Green Bay Packers: I am almost thirty and I recall being in junior high watching Favre play in the NFL. There is little doubt he is in the twilight of his carrer, even though his playing does not reflect that. Favre is the second highest rated QB in the NFC, not too bad for a man who has a kid graduating high school. I hope regardless of where his Packers end this season he takes a lesson from John Elway and walks away on top, everyone will wonder what could have been if he stayed.

5. Pittsburgh Steelers: They are the top defensive team in the NFL and we all know defenses win championships. Don't be too suprised if you see the Steelers in the AFC Championship Game this year,

6. Jacksonville Jaguars: They are a great team as their record dictates, however they are aging. Fred Taylor can't have too many miles left in the tank and he is their number one go to guy. Add in the fact that regardless of what they do they cannot seem to get by the Colts and will need to to make their Super Bowl dreams a reality.

7. Seattle Seahawks: There is little doubt that this team is better than that one last year. They will most likely finish the season 3-1 posting an 11-5 record for the second best year they have ever had. As a Seahawk fan we expect more from them. Now don't forget they finished last year at 9-7 and were a field goal from the NFC Championship. Another dark horse who could threaten the NFC.

8. New York Giants: For Eli's sake they better hope that the Vikings dont grab the other wild card in the NFC, because if he faces them...game over. The Giants have a slim chance to make a serious run as they will more than likely have to play Dallas in the playoffs, that is if they get out of the first round.

9. Tampa Bay Buccanners: I regret to say that I have not followed them too much this year, all that aside this is the last NFC team to win the Super Bowl and Gruden is a great coach. I doubt the make it out of the first round.

10. Cleveland Browns: I never saw them coming. Derek Anderson is an emerging superstar and the Dawg Pound is again scary. They dont stand a chance against the Steelers in the playoffs (if they face).

Thursday’s Game: Chicago Bears @ Washington Redskins:

Wow! The Bears had me fooled (again) , just when you think you see glimpse of the 2006 NFC Champions and the defensive beasts that they were for a few years, they allow 14 points in the 4th and lose. Gotta go with Washington on this. Bears defense tires down just enough to let the other guy win.

Sunday’s Games:

Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills:

Well I made a costly error last week (again) by picking the lowly ‘Fins to finally break their streak and win a game this season. A dismantling by the blah Jets forces me to not make the mistake again. Then there is Buffalo who was going against a team who was playing with a heavy heart and sneaked out a W in the end. Bills win this contest.

St. Louis Rams @ Cincinnati Bengals:

The Rams have been impressive lately, the Bengals…well lets say they have not been the team with all their offensive weapons that we thought they would be. Rams will not win in Cincinnati unfortunately. Believe me I hope they do, any time an NFC team beats an AFC team I am happy.

Dallas Cowboys @ Detroit Lions:

The way the Lions are playing right now they will not win the predicted 10 games until next season. I made the error of picking the Pack against the Boys. Romo will make the Lions look like they should be playing in Europe.

Oakland Raiders @ Green Bay Packers:

Oakland picked up an impressive win against the Broncos this week. Regardless of who starts for the Pack there is no way…let me say it again. No way that the Raiders win this game.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Houston Texans:

The question for this game is….will Garcia be under center? If so, Tampa rolls to a win, if not they lose.

Carolina Panthers @ Jacksonville Jaguars:

Give it up to Carolina, an impressive win for their injury depleted team against the 49ers last week. Unfortunately their win streak ends at 1. Jags roll to a win.

New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles:

Now that the QB controversy has gone away and McNabb should be back under center I predict a close game with the lowly Eagles coming up just short of winning another one....3 close games, 3 losses.

San Diego Chargers @ Tennessee Titans:

This is one of the harder games to pick this week. Both coming off wins and both played well enough to be applauded. LT played very well and I believe that his momentum will continue as he runs all over the Titans.

Minnesota Vikings @ San Francisco 49ers:

Now o the flip side this is one of the easier games to pick. 49ers just plain stink, I wonder where all their fans are now? Vikings are on a roll, threw up 42 against the Lions and now they will face the 49ers. Watch AP add to his lead as he looks to capture the NFL Rushing Trophy, Offensive ROY. WOW.

Arizona Cardinals @ Seattle Seahawks:

An impressive win by Arizona against the Browns, they are 3-1 against the AFC this year, unfortunately they cannot boast a similar record against what many call the weak NFC. Seattle is riding high coming off their fourth straight win, the last two coming down to final seconds. Both of these teams are my teams however my heart does remain in Seattle. Go Hawks!

Kansas City Chiefs @ Denver Broncos:

What is going on with the Broncos? Defeated by Oakland! Oh well things are going to get better for you. 1. You are playing the Chiefs. 2. It is December and your at home.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ New England Patriots:

The Steelers have been winning, just not very impressively, the same can be said for the Patriots last two as well. Many experts are picking the Steelers to win this one in an upset and while that would be awesome. Please take no offense TRUE Patriot fans, I just cant stand the guy who is a New England fan, but lives in Portland Oregon and has never been east of Idaho. I still have to go against the Steelers and pick the Pats to win. I hate guarentees.

Cleveland Browns @ New York Jets:

As the Browns got on the plane and headed home a couple of things went through their minds. “What happened?” and “Well no-one expected us to get this far”. I believe this to be the beginning of the end for Cleveland. D.A. is going to start feeling the pressure as the playoffs loom. My upset pick of the week is NYJ walking off the field winners of two in a row.

Indianapolis Colts @ Baltimore Ravens:

I just don’t know about the Ravens. I mean this is a team that many considered to be a threat in the AFC. Got to go with the Colts here.

Monday’s Game:

New Orleans Saints @ Atlanta Falcons:

The Saints are seeing their playoff hopes disappear. Once NFC favorites and a popular pick to win it all this year they sit at 5-7, two games away from .500. This will help them rebuild a little confidence as they take on the Falcons. I guess beating up on a division rival who has nothing to look forward to except that their vacations begin in 4 weeks.

This season I am posting right around .700 for my picks. I am pretty accurate with my upsets. I look for good feedback and good sportsmanship on my posts. We may be fans of different teams, but we share a love for NFL football.

Green Bay @ Dallas:

Both of these teams are needless to say be quite impressive. I pick the Packers to win a close one even though the game is in Dallas.

San Francisco @ Carolina:

Carolina has been downright horrible this year and the 49ers posted an impressive win against Arizona this week. The 49ers will win in Carolina this week. Gore is back.

Jacksonville @ Indianpolis:

The Jags are rolling. The Colts are winning, however they are not impressive. Jags will steamroll the Colts at home and go into a tie for the division.

San Diego @ Kansas City:

The Chargers will win the division this year and sneak into the playoffs. With the injuries the Chiefs have sustained I cant see them winning this game. Chargers win.

New York Jets @ Miami:

This is it. Miami wins their first game on the season. An impressive defensive stand against the Steelers on Monday caused me to pick an 0-11 team to win.

Detriot @ Minnesota:

Where did the Vikes come from? They should have AP back this week (a good thing for me and my fantasy league). Vikings destroy the faltering Lions.

Seattle @ Philadelphia:

This game depends on two things. 1. Will Seattle pressure the QB? 2. Will the Eagles play McNabb? The last time Seattle went to Philly they crushed them 42-0 and took most of the starters out in the second half. I dont see that happening again, however I see Seattle winning. The Eagles have huge heads for a below .500 team and Seattle is looking to grab a three game lead in their division.

Atanta @ St. Louis:

St. Louis will win their third game of the season here pending any injuries. They are defeated at home and need a win. Atlanta is just downright horrible this year.

Houston @ Tennessee:

The Titans need to avenge their humilating defeat to the Bengals this last week and will do so against the Texans.

Buffalo @ Washington:

The Skins will play with heart after their loss of Sean Taylor. Buffalo doesn't stand a chance.

Cleveland @ Arizona:

How about them Browns. They will make the playoffs but will not get out of the first round. Arizona will lose this game by 10 points.

Denver @ Oakland:

Oakland will win against the declining Broncos. This is an upset pick.

New York Giants @ Chicago:

Dont let the Bears win last week fool you. The Giants are for real (just as long as they dont play Dallas or Minnesota). Giants win.

Tampa Bay @ New Orleans:

Two good teams face off. Next to Thursdays game this is the hardest game to pick and I will go with the home team here. Saints win.

Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh:

The Steelers have been less than impressive of late and them barely beating the Fins is a direct reflection of that. Bengals roll the Terrible Towels in Steel City.

New England @ Baltimore:

Who in their right mind can pick the Ravens? Pats win.

Well here we are again. Week 9, the season is officially half over. Now we have two teams that are evenly matched at medicore 4-3 records facing off. Both teams are suprises this season.

1. The Browns are a suprise because....well they are the Browns

2. Seattle is a suprise as they are 4-3 when they should be 5-2. Also they have an impressive defense and poor offense.

Lets Review.....

The Browns (4-3) are needless to say impressive this year. Two of their three loses are very understandable as they were to the Steelers in Week 1 a 34-7 beating and to New England in Week 5 when they hung in and only lost 34-17, now most would consider a 17 point loss substantial, but hey we are talking about the Pats right? Now to put things into perspective, the Browns have been the ONLY team to play New England this year that lost by 17 points, each and every team has lost by MORE POINTS. Then of course there is the flip side, they gave Oakland a win and their last two wins were against the Rams and Dolphins (the NFL's only remaining defeated teams) and allowed them to score 51 points combined. Now their other two victories come from within their division against the Ravens and Bengals. Now at the half way point the Bengals game does not look as spectacular as it did in Week 2 as the Bengals (2-5) are in the cellar.

So two games were gimmies and two were hard fought. The Browns are loving to play spolier this year and anything can happen. They have allowed over 200 points to be run up on them this season however they have also run up 194 which makes them the most offensive team in the division.

The Seahawks (4-3) have been less than impressive this year. They have lost games to Arizona (anyone who watched that game knows that shouldn't have happened), Pittsburgh, Seattles first shut out loss in 7 years, and New Orleans, who decided in Seattle to get their season going.

Their bright spots are Hasselbeck who is posting a near 90 QB rating and a stunning defense, they may allow yards, but stop them from scoring only allowing 108 points this year, that is third in the NFL only behind the Steelers and Colts. Branch should be back on the field on Sunday giving Matt his favorite target.

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Seattle is coming of it's bye and Cleveland is recovering from a near loss to the Rams. With Seattle healthy they should pick up the win (crossed fingers) however the Browns again are suprising and I would not be left with my jaw touching the floor if they pulled out a win over Seattle.

You all know where my heart lies. Good Luck Hawks and bring your A Game to Lake Eerie.

In response to Adam's post I thought it would be better if we as the fans voted. Forget everyone else, lets focus on the division leaders.

New England Patriots: You know when I was a kid I remember when the Pats were a joke, my how things have changed. The Pats deserve a HUGE A++++. I mean come on, they are not just beating everyone, they are destroying them. Over 300 points this year, 30 TD passes by Brady!!! I am not a Patriot fan, but they deserve respect and to all the Pat fans I have one question..."Does it bother you that folks who have never been to New England claim to be Pat fans, you know the fair weather fans?"

Pittsburgh Steelers: After a joke of a season last year they have truly regained their Super Bowl Championship form of 2005. I mentioned in my previous posts that SteelerNation has my respect and with everyones focus on the Colts and Patriots, well the Steelers could surprise. Definite B+ for the season (I would give an A, but come on that was a bad loss to the Cards)

Indianpolis Colts: They have scored over double the points that they have allowed, their wins may not be as impressive as the Patriots, but alas they are the defending Super Bowl Champions and are 7-0. What better grade to give them than an A+. Now hold on Colt fans, there can only be one valavictorian in the NFL, you may have it after Sunday, but until then, be happy :)

Kansas City Chiefs / San Diego Chargers: These teams are both tied for the division I can only pick one, the team that will most likely win the division and that is the Chargers. LT seems to have found his grove and Rivers is playing much better. I give them a C , they are one game above .500.

Dallas Cowboys: What a season for The Boys, 6-1 their only lose to the Almighty Patriots (new name...whatcha think?) Romo has his money, now the big question is "now what" . He is a great QB when he wants to be and other times I am kicking a screaming (he is on my fantasy league). I give the Boys a solid A and it would be an A+, the only factor was the Bills game.

Green Bay Packers: Who can honestly say they saw this coming? Brett is amazing this year and they dont even have a running game. The plan should be simple, stop Favre and win. A+ for the Pack as most expected the washed up QB to falter and go quietly into the good night.

Carolina Panthers: While most experts picked them as an NFC threat, they have been anything but that. With key injuries and a 4-3 record this team will be lucky to finish over .500. I give them a D, not out of spite, but injuries. I expected this team to be much better.

Seattle Seahawks: Now onto my team. Dont worry fans I am going to give the Hawks a deserving grade. Hasselbeck has been good this year, not great. Their running game is non-existent, Shaun is on track for less than a 1,000 yards and 4 TD's, a far cry from his MVP year. Their brightside is their defense. They have held teams to 108 points total. That is the lowest in the NFC and 3rd in the NFL behind the Steelers and Colts. Defense gets an A, don't argue, that is deserved. Their offense gets a C minus. They will most likely win the NFC West and mabye (if they turn things areound) get out of the first round.

In response to Adam's post I thought it would be better if we as the fans voted. Forget everyone else, lets focus on the division leaders.

New England Patriots: You know when I was a kid I remember when the Pats were a joke, my how things have changed. The Pats deserve a HUGE A++++. I mean come on, they are not just beating everyone, they are destroying them. Over 300 points this year, 30 TD passes by Brady!!! I am not a Patriot fan, but they deserve respect and to all the Pat fans I have one question..."Does it bother you that folks who have never been to New England claim to be Pat fans, you know the fair weather fans?"

Pittsburgh Steelers: After a joke of a season last year they have truly regained their Super Bowl Championship form of 2005. I mentioned in my previous posts that SteelerNation has my respect and with everyones focus on the Colts and Patriots, well the Steelers could surprise. Definite B+ for the season (I would give an A, but come on that was a bad loss to the Cards)

Indianpolis Colts: They have scored over double the points that they have allowed, their wins may not be as impressive as the Patriots, but alas they are the defending Super Bowl Champions and are 7-0. What better grade to give them than an A+. Now hold on Colt fans, there can only be one valavictorian in the NFL, you may have it after Sunday, but until then, be happy :)

Kansas City Chiefs / San Diego Chargers: These teams are both tied for the division I can only pick one, the team that will most likely win the division and that is the Chargers. LT seems to have found his grove and Rivers is playing much better. I give them a C , they are one game above .500.

Dallas Cowboys: What a season for The Boys, 6-1 their only lose to the Almighty Patriots (new name...whatcha think?) Romo has his money, now the big question is "now what" . He is a great QB when he wants to be and other times I am kicking a screaming (he is on my fantasy league). I give the Boys a solid A and it would be an A+, the only factor was the Bills game.

Green Bay Packers: Who can honestly say they saw this coming? Brett is amazing this year and they dont even have a running game. The plan should be simple, stop Favre and win. A+ for the Pack as most expected the washed up QB to falter and go quietly into the good night.

Carolina Panthers: While most experts picked them as an NFC threat, they have been anything but that. With key injuries and a 4-3 record this team will be lucky to finish over .500. I give them a D, not out of spite, but injuries. I expected this team to be much better.

Seattle Seahawks: Now onto my team. Dont worry fans I am going to give the Hawks a deserving grade. Hasselbeck has been good this year, not great. Their running game is non-existent, Shaun is on track for less than a 1,000 yards and 4 TD's, a far cry from his MVP year. Their brightside is their defense. They have held teams to 108 points total. That is the lowest in the NFC and 3rd in the NFL behind the Steelers and Colts. Defense gets an A, don't argue, that is deserved. Their offense gets a C minus. They will most likely win the NFC West and mabye (if they turn things areound) get out of the first round.

Now grant it before Sunday the Seahawks did not deserve any respect. A trip to Pittsburgh was meaningless as we did not even show up and were outscored 21-0 and then we come home to face the winless Saints and again get humilated this time on our home turf. I was so embaressed I could not find the courage to write a post as I do most weeks about the Hawks.

I don't know about the rest of you but I check out the Power Rankings each week and I was amazed to find that Seattle dropped 4 spots to #20 in the league after a dominating performance over the winless Rams. This puts the Hawks behind many not so promising teams.

Now a couple of things are certain in Seattle.

1. Nate Burleson seems to be worth every penny he was signed for when he decides to put his heart in the game. When he is horrible, he is horrible. When he is on, look out NFL.

2. Shaun Alexander a deserving inductee in the NFL Hall of Fame in Canton and The Seahawks Ring of Honor needs to decide if he truly wants to continue playing football at this level. Right now if I was Holmgren I would bench Shaun and start Mo Morris. Shauns heart is just not in the game anymore.

3. Matt needs more protection, he is off to a great start this year, while it may not be at Tom Brady's level (a god in the NFL right now) he is posting a respectable 90.0+ rating at last glance.

This bye week should be interesting, we head into it 4-3 with a one game lead in the division. Hopefully Holmgren can regain his posture and not make some ludicrious calls as he has of late and he works the hell out of the Hawks weaknesses.

We should win the West this year as St. Louis and San Fran have basically called it a season and Arizona is the only one in contention with a ####ed up QB, though they were quite impressive last week against Arizona.

What are your thoughts? What does Seattle need to to do to regain it's form??