I only saw parts of the Denver/San Diego game yesterday, but most specifically, I saw the fumble. Over. And over. And over.

As a Denver fan and Fox Sports blogger, I felt I should comment.

The truth is, it was a fumble. I know it, you know it. Referee Ed knows it, Jay Cutler knows it. And no one is denying that's what happened. In fact, as I understand it, there were several questionable calls leading up to it, including a fumble that wasn't a fumble by Chris Chambers and a touchdown that was really a bobble by the Bolts.

It's a shame that such a high octane game is decided by poor calls, but it happens. Players and coaches know this to be a truth of this game. The NFL does it's best to making game play as even as possible. I'm not even that old, but I certainly recall the days before instant replay was available. Slowly, the rules evolved so that the refs could get closer to making the right call every time. We still lack perfection. This time, the ball bounced in Denver's favor.

The real bonus is that this is the second week of the season. This is the first of two meetings between these two teams, and this by no means has sealed anyone's fate. Worse calls have been made in bigger games and they have changed the course of NFL history. This will be addressed by the league in the off season, and maybe the next time a game comes down to this, the results will be different.

Still, you have to admire that the teams now compete. After being outscored by 9 total touchdowns last year, a little fortune was good for the Broncos, but it's now a very different game than it was last year. Both offenses are obviously for real, both defenses need a lot of work, and the season rolls on.

Bolts fan can comfort themselves in knowing the game should have had a different result. Broncos fans can rejoyce in the fact that it didn't. The season moves on.

I expect this to kick the rematch into overdrive, and I'm excited to see where both seasons go.

 Tis the time of year when everyone is an expert, when everyone's home team is set for victory, where we know EXACTLY who will show up in the playoffs, and take home the ring at the end of the year...

I know, because I've read many foxsport blogger's predictions and laughed my butt off. But, I decided it simply wasn't fair to comment on theirs without putting my own out there, so, here it is. I hope you enjoy, and I count on you disagreeing. It's cool. We won't really know until January, will we? I did go to the effort of walking through schedules and making in game predictions, and I'll admit, some favortism was shown to my Broncs, but... not a horrific amount. This is just my take.

AFC West -
San Diego (11-5) - Still the top of the west, I think they're going to look a bit more vulnerable than anyone is counting on. They stayed the same while those around them improved.
Denver (10-6) - I've already admitted to showing them some favoritism, but don't count this out from happening. They've improved in many key spots, and might push SD.
Oakland (6-10) - Call me a Raider hater, but I simply don't think JaMarcus is very good, and two good RBs don't make up for no good WRs. The defensive secondary is amazing, but the front 7 is not. If they stick with Lane though, I think they'll get better quickly.
Kansas City (6-10) - I think they'll prove to be tenacious this year, but win very rarely. Big things are on the horizon here though as well.

AFC North -
Cleveland (11-5) - Potent offense got better, and a scrappy defense got two hunks of talent at DT. I don't love the secondary, but I've been surprised before. For the record, I have the Steelers beating them twice.
Pittsburgh (10-6) - A consistently good team will be tough again this year, but I think will ultimately fall victim to the hardest schedule in football and risk missing the playoffs by that much.
Cincinnati (3-13) - After years of hoping, I simply don't think Cinci knows how to get a runner or field a mediocre defense, and life won't be easy for them. I don't think Lewis will be able to stand the meltdown that is coming.
Baltimore (2-14) - The started team workouts with an all out in team skirmish. I see this being very similar to the movie "Nessecery Roughness". They loose every game to simply come together as a team and win the last big game of the year. They also get the #1 pick next year.

AFC East -
New England (13-3) - Not as good as last year. Still really freaking good.
New York Jets (10-6) - Darn jerks made me go back and readjust after they got Favre. Now I actually think all the off-season moves will lead to something.
Buffalo (8-8) - What was once my dark horse for the playoffs just ended up feeling... so-so. If they can keep it together, they may make the playoffs next year.
Miami (2-14) - Plus side #1. They're rebuilding. Plus side #2. They play the Bad News Birds of Baltimore.

AFC South -
Jacksonville (12-4) - An always stout D, a potent tandem at RB, second year in charge for Garrard, some quality off-season moves and finally shedding (I hope) Matt Jones, and this team finally overtakes the Colts to win the division.
Indianapolis (10-6) - Still a good season, however, I think injuries are going to play a major factor here. Every stud on this team has missed time due to severe (and likely to reoccur) injuries, except Payton who just had his knee done.
Houston (10-6) - I was surprised too, but this has been a steadily building team that if healthy can give anyone a run for their money. I think they miss the playoffs, but only just.
Tennessee (6-10) Last year, Vince Young just won games. This year, I think he's actually working with less talent, and no... Alge Crumpler is not his key to success.

NFC West -
Seattle (11-5) I think this is their last year at the top of the heap in this division for a while, but I still think they have it, injured WRs and all.
Arizona (9-7) - A respectable season, but until someone realizes neither Leinart nor Warner is the answer, they're going to have problems.
San Francisco (6-10) - I see most games coming down to a few points. Their talent level is strong enough to keep up with other teams, but I don't trust their coaching.
St. Louis (5-11) - Let's put aside the fact that Steven Jackson is a pain. There is still no reason to believe in that defense. Plain and simple.

NFC North -
Minnesota (12-4)- I may be drinking the kool-aid, but I think offseason additions of Berrian and Allen, a very young, poweful team will emerge... and yeah, I think that either Travaris won't loose many games for them, or someone less worrisome will fill in.
Green Bay (10-6) - Aaron Rodgers will lead the Pack to the playoffs, which will keep shareholders from asking for heads to be served on platters.
Detroit (4-12) - Still not good. Everyone with this organization should be fired (though I think Kevin Smith will prove to be quite a find).
Chicago (4-12) - The question isn't Orton or Grossman... the question is... can anyone else in this state throw a football, please?

NFC East -
Dallas (11-5) - Thugs, miscreants and lawyers... but they're talented. Wade still looses his job.
Washington (10-6) - They've been trying to find a key to ignite this team for years. I think Taylor is it.
New York Giants (9-7) - The mighty have fallen. Strahan is missed. Eli is just a mortal again. What can you do?
Philidelphia - (7-9) - You know those guys who think McNabb is good? I'm really not one of them. I think he needs talented players and perfect health to win games, and beyond Westbrook, he has neither.

NFC South -
New Orleans (9-7) - The division no one cared about last year will again send a 9-7 team to the playoffs, but unlike the Bucs last year, New Orleans could actually do something with it.
Tampa Bay (8-8) - An aging team will show it this year.
Carolina (8-8) - The suspension of Steve Smith actually played into this. Weird, huh?
Atlanta (4-12) - It's more of a project than a team right now anyway, right?

Playoffs -
Wildcard
Denver @ Jacksonville - Just like the Pats never beat Denver, the Broncs never beat the Jags.
Pittsburgh @ San Diego - San Diego barely eeks this one out. I think most people are surprised the Colts aren't here.
Washington @ Seattle - Seattle wins at home.
Green Bay @ New Orleans - NO is back in the mix, as Rodgers can't keep pace with Brees. A Favreless Packer nation cries foul.

Division
San Diego @ New England - I'm actually predicting that... yeah... SD gets their vengence.
Jacksonville @ Cleveland - I think in the end, Jacksonville out-muscles the Browns.
New Orleans @ Minnesota - Minnesota says "no".
Seattle @ Dallas - Dallas wins. Wade starts thinking he'll keep the job.

Championship
San Diego @ Jacksonville - This could have gone either way, so I give it to the home team.
Dallas @ Minnesota - The Vikes shut down every aspect of the Dallas offense, and AP carries the team the rest of the way.

Super Bowl
Jacksonville vs. Minnesota - I see Minnesota being favored and the Jags pulling it off.

I know. I was as surprised as anyone.

So, tear it apart. It's cool. I understand. I just thought I'd be a man and put myself out there. Hope ya'll enjoyed.

The offseason... sigh... is there anything worse? Not for football fans. We wait. We debate. We attend draft day parties, track signings on line... some of us try to show up to training camp just to get a little fix.

And let's face it, it's not as if the offseason diminishes the celebrity of any footballer. You can pick out Tom Brady at fifty yards. Keith Traylor and Junior Seau are the most popular guys in their retirement communities, while Matt Leinart and Vince Young are the most popular at the local college keg party... and Brett... oh Brett.

But the problem with the offseason is that while a true fan still wants to be in touch with the league, the idea of it all gets muddled. When is it no longer football we are following?

For such cases, I ask myself H.D.T.A.M.F.L., or... "How Does This Affect My Fantasy League?" It's a great filter to keep in mind as cruising headlines in the offseason, and a very large reason that I believe EVERY person who writes about football should partake in it's fantasy outlet. This way, we can focus on ACTUAL football stories, and move away from the fluff and business that really shouldn't clog my brain EVER. Signings and team cuts are obvious, but others need a bit of perspective. Here are a few examples...

Terrell Owens say Jessica Simpson can come watch Tony play.
H.D.T.A.M.F.L. - It doesn't. Jessica is not Tony's downfall. Panic attacks are. This is not a football story.

Brandon Marshall is attacked by brother/McDonalds bag.
H.D.T.A.M.F.L. - Tons, though only due to the resulting injury. The story itself... doesn't mean #### to me. He could have been attacked by the Burger KIng "King", and I don't care. Just as long as he can wrap his fingers around a football.

Javon Walker is beaten up by thugs, relives events in a flashback that closely resembles a season of "24".
H.D.T.A.M.F.L. - Doesn't affect anything. If you were planning on drafting him, you have deeper trouble.

Tom Brady dates model. They go places and look better than everyone.
H.D.T.A.M.F.L. - I've thought long and hard about it, in hopes to make SOMETHING in this count, but it doesn't. He's simply a very hatable man.

Marshawn #### plays bumper tag with woman on city street.
H.D.T.A.M.F.L. - Deeply. The commishiner could suspend him forever. And there is that whole "jail" thing.

Eli Manning attends charity ball.
H.D.T.A.M.F.L. - It won't. Ever. Unless he gets stabbed in the leg with a serving fork. This is not a football article. Turn in your field pass.

Peyton Manning shoots 12 new commercials.
H.D.T.A.M.F.L. - Massive impact. If I draft him, I now am forced to think about him more than food or women I would like to sleep with. Life takes a very dark twist.

Brett Favre.
H.D.T.A.M.F.L. - Haha! This is tricky. You would think massive impact, depending on where he ends up, if he ends up playing, etc. etc. BUT NO! He's on the Madden Cover. Untouchable. Proceed as normal.

So... I hope this gives some perspective to what should really constitute a sports story, and how I hope we can move away from the celebrity expose that we seem to be giving NFL footballers. Let's face it, in the end, we want them to play games and win. We want the to smash other guys in the mouth and make it more exciting to pass through a Sunday. Let's get down to brass tacks, and let Fantasy Football lead the way.

The new season is on it's way!

P.S. You may be asking yourself... H.D.T.A.M.F.L.
If so, excellent job. You were paying attention. This blog affects your fantasy league deeply. In fact, it should have changed the way you approach life. If not, meditate upon it, come back to me later.

For some reason, at first, Godell didn't want to admit it, but after the question was posed and a moment of hard staring had passed, the NFL commissioner finally admitted the truth. "We've changed our suspension policy."

He grinned mischievously, before adding "rather, I changed it, because I'm the only one who thinks around here."

Some would say a change was long overdue. One might believe that the change came due to the inconsistency in punishment making the entire exercise seem arbitrary and personal. Complaints from the prior season ranged from a non-standard penalty to players, to not allowing courts full time to rule on the subject matter and deem guilt or innocence, to punishing those who had already been previously held accountable for the actions. But these complaints, while logical, had nothing to do with Godell's decision.

The change of policy actually came to him during the NFL owner's meeting last spring. "NFL fans were angry. They were angry that while players on their team were being unfairly persecuted, other teams got to employ rarely punished thugs and miscreants." Giggled Godell like and excited schoolgirl. "So... the owners weren't sure if this was cutting into their profit margin, and actually allowing them to back up the claim that they've been losing money."

"A couple of weeks later I was out to dinner, and I had a busboy fired for looking directly at me. For the rest of the night, everything that went wrong was blamed on that busboy." Godell's eyes were now following a fly around the room. "The busboy, after he was fired, apparently poured me the wrong drink, overcooked my steak, and made the waitress fondle me. It was during the fondling that it occurred to me. Suspend players who don't have jobs. No one can get angry about it, but it still looks like I'm being really tough on bad behavior." This week, unemployed NFLers Mike Anderson and Shane Olivia were added to that list.

"Man, I don't get it." Said Mike Anderson when reached for comment, "I mean, I've been telling people for years I smoke weed... since I was in Denver. I was in the military. That stuff messes you up. I smoked weed to keep it straight, but everyone seemed cool with it. Then boom, I lose my job in Baltimore and now I'm suspended. Suspended from what? Looking for a job? Man, screw that."

When asked for comment, suspended former Cincinnati wide receiver Chris Henry simply made violent gestures and various grunts. The writer assumes he was either overwhelmed by his emotions concerning the subject, or jacked up beyond all belief.

This new trend in suspension policy has brought worry to certain NFL free agents. "I'm actually smoking weed right now." Said Travis Henry from his home. "I'm not a fool. I sued the NFL, got my way, and then got cut. I'd rather be suspended for actually smoking the weed over "presenting an image unbecoming the NFL" or whatever stuff he's claiming now. I know which way the wind is blowing."

"I actually received a call last week." Said a current NFL free agent who did not want to be named, but was once a lineman for the New Orleans Saints and Cleveland Browns (whose name rhymes with ReCharles Rently) "They wanted to know if I was on drugs any time in the last year and a half. I said, "yeah, sure, antibiotics for the staph infection", and then they seriously asked me "what, God won't heal you?"... I didn't know what to say. I need to find a job quick though. Seriously, I'll play for anyone right now."

From atop his new dark tower, Godell beamed. "See, this is the ultimate plan. I'm tough on crime... on bad behavior. I'm doing what this country should have been doing in the first place and punishing people without representation. Now, I've even figured out a way to do it without making anyone angry. I'm that good." Then, just before ending the interview, the commissioner’s face became somber again.

"Next, I'm coming after retired players. Terry Bradshaw? I saw "Failure to Launch" last night. You're suspended. Michael Strahan better keep up on his divorce settlement. And Michael Irvin? I've got my eye on you."

* This is not an actual article. No players or commissioners were accurately portrayed in the writing of this story. The author claims no responsibility for the contents, unless you found it to be awesome, in which case, it was totally me.

Last year, Denver Broncos fans walked away dismayed. I, like many, began the season excited. Jay Cutler had experience under his belt. Travis Henry was to lead another corps of stellar runners. Rod Smith might be able to return, Javon Walker and Brandon Marshall were looking to be quite a tandem in the making. On defense, we had drafted two new ends to compliment a very talented Elvis Dumerville. With the addition of Dre’ Bly, the Denver top 3 corners looked to be the best combo in the NFL (at the time). Visions of Super Bowls danced in my head.

I, of course, lost hope as quickly as Jay was loosing weight. As our storied veteran O-line crashed down, so did the potency of our offense. Henry started strong, but between injuries and the drug testing fiasco, it wouldn’t count for much. Walker hurt his knee. Smith didn’t come back. Ebenezer Ekuban and Jarvis Moss were both lost for the season, leaving the D-line wanting. Dre’ Bly got burned deep with some consistency. Lacking special teams decided it was a good idea to kick to Devin Hester twice in one game. To say the results of the season hurt is a slight understatement.

But as the wise John Madden once stated “Every team comes into the new season undefeated”, which I think means that given the right moves, any team can rise again. Time to see why hope stirs on the horizon for the Broncos… the following are my top 5 off-season moves… and while these moves may have several parts, they add to why the Broncos might become contenders again.

5. O-lineman: Clady and Lichtensteiger are promising as rookies, but the return of Hamilton and Nalen also are part of this recipe. If Denver looses linemen, we lose everything.

4. Safety depth: While the Chargers claim not to miss Marlon McCree, he is one of a handful of safety acquisitions that allow Denver fans piece of mind. For those of us who remember the AFC championship against Pittsburgh, few things hurt us worse than not being able to sub in for #### should he come up hurt. If nothing else, it should boost our special teams strength, and keep Champ Bailey from running kick-off coverage.

3. Diabetes: OK, technically, Jay had it last year too, but finding it and addressing it should help the kid feel healthy again. He’s also handled it like a pro, stepping up his own responsibility, and unlike the Marshall comments he made earlier in the year, he is downplaying the media hoopla in favor of just dealing with it.

2. Linebackers: While the return of Jarvis Moss, Ebenezer Ekuban, and the addition of Dewayne Robertson will likely help improve the Denver defensive front, it is more likely that the real growth will be shown in the LB corps, specifically the addition of Sam LB Boss Bailey and underrated Mike LB Niko Koutouvides. With D.J. Williams able to move over to the correct side of the field, the look of a “smart” defense should come again, plus with guys like Jamie Winborn, Jordan Beck, and Spencer Larson waiting in the wings, they’ll look fast, fresh, and hungry.

1. Wide receivers: I’ve been a fan of Darrell Jackson for years. Add to that players who have much to prove, such as Sammie Parker and Keary Colbert, and rookie receiver/returner Eddie Royal, and you’re not even half way to the 12 guys competing for a top spot on the roster. Assuming a strong recovery for Brandon Marshall, one thing Cutler should not be left wanting for is quality guys to throw to.

 

So, I see the Broncos improving this year, surprising many pundits who have so far dropped them off the radar. And if there are more moves, I can only assume they will help. But I’ve held these dreams before. Do I have a vision of a Super Bowl visit? Not yet. But remember… Everyone is undefeated until week one.

It doesn't seem that long ago that the AFC West was considered to be the toughest division in football. The four teams, year in and year out, were likely to compete not only for their own division, but to rob other divisions of wildcard spots. Then, as was meant to be, the wind shifted. Just as the Chargers finally rose to the top, the world seemed to go topsy-turvy. It was suddenly all about gloating who was going to get the highest draft spot.

But as a Broncos fan, I want all teams to rise again, to become feared amongst other divisions, and to fulfill an ache for true rivalries that matter. What follows is what I see in the West now, and the biggest reason we need a rivalry to begin anew now.

San Diego Chargers - Without a doubt, they are the toast of the division at the moment, but... sadly, that's about as far as it goes. The talent has been there for years, and unlike many other teams, has maintained a large sense of consistency. There is no doubt that they should be capable to win a Superbowl... or multiple playoff games. Perhaps a second year with the coaching staff will put them over the top, but... I can't be sure. Chris Chambers being more ingrained in the offense will help too. They should be good again this year.
Reason for a rivalry: If you're not a Chargers fan, you likely hate Philip Rivers. He doesn't have the talent level of Tomlinson or Merrimen, but he makes up for it in unjustified sense of smack talking. I know several defensive players have put a large target on him.

Denver Broncos - Denver fans have been fortunate to have a very competitive team for many years. Even in some of the worst years the team has had recently, they still put together the second best record in the division. That being said, the true level ability seems in question. For every postive aspect of the team (Champ Bailey is the best corner in the game, Brandon Marshall is an unforeseen talent, The Denver run system) there is a negetive (Dre' Bly won't tackle and gets burned, Brandon Marshall wrestle with unforeseen objects, The line is as hard to get around as the boarder fence). While very strong acquisitions have been made in the off-season, addressing weaknesses on defense, O-line and special team, it remains to be seen whether the Broncs will treat Denver to another playoff trip, or whether we're rebuilding more than we thought. I'm hoping for the best, but... there is no promise.
Reason for a rivalry: Mike Shanahan. Like other coaches marked as "genius", if you're not a fan of the team, you want him to fail. Even the winning of two super bowl rings doesn't decrease this emotion, but rather pushes it further. The current theory is that Shanny won't win without Elway, and Elway couldn't have won without T.D. Every rival armchair quarterback loves to ask the question "who's a genius now?"

Kansas City Chiefs - KC has come upon hard times. Once the offensive line started showing their age, this often underrated but often competitive team started losing the ability to compete. This off-season, the coaching staff made the wise choice of calling this time what it was, and truly establishing a rebuilding process. The difficult choice to trade away top talent Jared Allen resulted in one of the mightest drafts of recent memory. The bold choice not to push competition on QB Croyle was also ingenious. Now, given time and consistency, the team is a few years out from having a truly scary team that will last years. But, don't expect a miracle this year.
Reason for a rivalry: Right now, it's Arrowhead. In a division that boasts both Mile High Stadium and the Black Hole, Arrowhead stadium has become the most difficult place to come to. As the talent on the team matures, I'm sure it will become a reasoning that follows the team on the road.

Oakland Raiders - Javon Walker. DeAngelo Hall. DMF. While major off-season gains for the team, it's left most of the league scatching their heads while the Raider-nation is loving it. To me, it looks like a series of moves I made when playing Madden Football's "Franchise" mode years ago. A lot of measureables, but not a lot of team. The plan may work. Or you might have found the fastest, strongest headcases, and locked them in a room, expecting to them to be victorious. I can't really say. But I don't have a good feeling about it.
Reason for a rivalry: Al Davis is pretty much the agreed embodiment of darkness in the NFL. The question is, do you follow that darkness, or not? Even some Raider's fans I've spoken with have wondered if the team will hit stride before he kicks the bucket. To his credit, he doesn't care what anyone thinks. He's as nuts as he wants to be, and that scariness is a reason to want them to be competitive. Every hero needs a villian... and it helps if the villian is completely cool with that casting.

Here's to hoping for top teams across the board (with the Broncs coming out on top, of course).

This year, the Denver Broncos lost the services of Rod Smith as a player. For fans, this was difficult on several levels.

Rod Smith was not only a great receiver, but a stand-up guy. In post game interviews, you could count on Rod to call other players to task, and more than anything, to call himself on his short comings.

He stood out because he was a self-made standout. While physically able, few would have the ability to argue Rod was an all pro most specifically because of his will and ethic. He is a rareity.

I didn't realize, however, how much I will miss him until I watched Jay Cutler's interview on Denverbroncos.com. Peppered with questions about last season's performance, his views of the off-season moves the team has made, and his hopes for the upcoming season, Jay decided to break from the mold of standard responses and call Brandon Marshall to task.

Granted, this may have been more a casual sidenot than Foxsports wanted to make it out to be, but all the same, I found myself thinking... who the heck does this guy think he is? Yes, it's one thing to express disappointment that Marshall, due to an accident, will not participate in off-season workouts, but to indicate Marshall might one day "run out of chances" with the Broncos? I knew we let some people in the front office go... I just didn't realized Jay was asked to pick up the slack.

And while some have already applauded his statements as "leadership", it's your job as a leader on a team to know when to speak up about other players on your team, and when it's OK to bring it into an interview (hint: it's not).

But wait... didn't I say that Denver fans will miss Rod's ability to call things as he sees them? Yes I did. And yes, I just said Jay Cutler should be smart enough to keep his yap shut on certain subjects... and here is the difference.

We knew Rod. We saw Rod's will and sacrifice. He earned our trust, and we, as fans, knew that we were of concern in what Rod said and did. He would only say things in hopes to improve the team. Jay is still earning people's faith and respect. He's been handed chances and opportunities. Yet Broncos fans have not seen him hold himself in the same light that he feels OK to cast on others. He dodges questions about his involvement in the teams needs of improvement. There was no thought of the fans or the betterment of the team. It was a classless attack on his #1 guy, and if even in passing, it was a bad move. Despite Marshall's willingness to admit he needs to grow up, I think Jay should realize before he speaks out of turn, he's got some growing to do himself.

First, a few notes.

First, I don't watch college ball, save for a few I glimpse while atop a barstool. Most of my player rankings come from other sources. If I choose a DE for a team, that's more the point than his actual name. I have my shortcomings. That being said, my sources are ones I trust. Also, due to that level of trust, I'm not stretching beyond round 1.

Second, there are many days between here and there, and much could change. We all know this. If you have any comments or suggestions, let me know. I only claim to be a Broncos afficinado anyway... and with that said... my mock draft (version #1)

01. Miami Dolphins - DE Chris Long, Virginia

I think Parcells wants to trade down more than anything, but… if it doesn’t happen, I expect him to take a marquee player, namely Matt Ryan, or more likely, Chris Long.
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02. St. Louis Rams - OT Jake Long, Michigan

After the way Bulger and Jackson struggled behind an aging and ailing line, Jake Long should help immediately.
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03. Atlanta Falcons - DT Glenn Dorsey, Louisiana State

Rod Coleman is gone, and Dorsey helps the Falcons out immediately. Off the field behavior only makes him more attractive. I believe he’ll clear any physical concerns.
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04. Oakland Raiders - RB Darren McFadden, Arkansas

There is no way Al Davis passes up on the flashiest player in the draft. Even if only to trade him later…
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05. Kansas City Chiefs - DT Sedrick Ellis, Southern California

The Chiefs have many holes to fix, but Ellis is a top talent for the pick, and will help Hali and Allen.
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06. New York Jets - DE Vernon Gholston, Ohio State

The Jets love him, and he could add some teeth to a lackluster d-line
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07. New England Patriots - CB Leodis McKelvin, Troy

McKelvin helps address the loss of #### and Samuel, as well as an excellent return man.
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08. Baltimore Ravens - QB Matt Ryan, Boston College

Ryan will provide quality competition for the QB position.
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09. Cincinnati Bengals - LB Keith Rivers, Southern California

After a chaotic off-season of LB loss, and a poor showing last year, Rivers will have the ability to be a leader on D.
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10. New Orleans Saints - CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Tennessee State

Partially due to name, partially due to talent, Rodgers-Cromartie is rising fast and will serve as an exciting second to ####.
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11. Buffalo Bills - WR Malcolm Kelly Okalahoma

Seems Kelly is the odds on favorite to finally give Lee Evans a compliment.
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12. Denver Broncos - OT Ryan Clady, Boise State

While his stock seems to be rising, Clady’s style and size makes him a fit for Denver’s scheme, and few other teams. He’s still a deal at 12.
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13. Carolina Panthers - OT Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh

The big lug’s skills are raw, but he has a high ceiling, and Carolina needs to protect Delhomme this year.
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14. Chicago Bears - RB Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois

Last year showed that Benson needed Jones, and the other Adrian Peterson isn’t the answer.
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15. Detroit Lions - OT Chris Williams, Vanderbilt

John Kitna might be tired of seeing the dome cover. I’m just saying.
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16. Arizona Cardinals - CB Aqib Talib, Kansas

The secondary looks to be in flux, and Talib can make an impact out of the gates.
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17. Minnesota Vikings - DE Derrick Harvey, Florida

In light of Udeze, the Vikes find a deal with Harvey.
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18. Houston Texans - CB Mike Jenkins, South Florida

Continuing the escalation of their D through the draft, a somewhat porous secondary lands on a top corner.
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19. Philadelphia Eagles - WR DeSean Jackson, California

McNabb’s demand for more offensive weapons is answered… kind of.
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20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - CB James King, Penn State

Time to renew talent, and Kind has the size and raw talents… just needs time to develop.
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21. Washington Redskins - S Kenny Phillips, Miami

The best safety in the draft goes to those who lost Sean Taylor.
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22. Dallas Cowboys (VIA Cle) – CB Brandon Flowers Virginia Tech

With corners flying off the board, the Cowboys snag theirs, and with a high ceiling, Flowers is worthwhile here.
==
23. Pittsburgh Steelers - OG Branden Albert, Virginia

By taking the top guard, the Steelers begin a long day of planning ahead for the o-line.
==
24. Tennessee Titans - WR Limas Sweed, Texas

Young needs weapons and he knows Sweed. It’s a win-win.
==
25. Seattle Seahawks - DT Kentwan Ballmer, North Carolina

Having addressed running back, Seattle can upgrade their D-line further with Ballmer.
==
26. Jacksonville Jaguars - DE Phillip Merling, Clemson

Jags need to address their D-line again, after a year of lackluster pass rush and losses in the off-season.
==
27. San Diego Chargers - DB Antoine Cason, Arizona

Cason’s stock has dropped, however his ability to play either safety or corner makes him a prime target for the Chargers, who need to address both.
==
28. Dallas Cowboys – RB Felix Jones, Arkansas

The Boys, unable to pull down McFadden with much to-do get the guy who once compliment DMF to compliment MB3.
==
29. San Francisco 49ers (VIA Ind) - OT Gosder Cherlius, Boston College

The Niners give their o-line a boost with Cherlius, a high-riser.
==
30. Green Bay Packers – LB Jarod Mayo, Tennessee

The LB corps gets even more depth and knowledge as the young GB team plans even further into the future..
==
31. New England Patriots - Pick Forfeited

Hey, don’t cheat. You’ll pick more often.
==
32. New York Giants - LB Dan Connor, Penn State

Conner helps to address the missing Kiwanuka with one of the top talents.

Broncos, oh my Broncos...

Um... just so you know... Chris Chambers is now a Charger. That whooping they handed you was their take on "warming up".

We play the Steelers this week, and, well, they may be ####ed up, they may have issues, but they're scary, and winning handily.

The Colts and Green Bay are coming down the pike.

K.C. and Oakland are getting their games together. I don't want to be last in the division... do you?

From my understanding, 4 linebackers tried out for the team this last week.

So... um... now that we're on the trade deadline, WOULD YOU DO SOMETHING? Please? I know we're just short of having an amazing team. I don't want to see us get beat up, in light of the moves we've made and the blows to our team.

Is Rod Smith active, or not?

Just please... please... give a man hope, will you?

Your fan, no matter what...

Jason

It's tough for any NFL team fan to see their team losing. This is the time when the fair weather fans seem to have the better idea, because they don't share your pain when the team drops 3 painful games in a row. Still, I am a Broncos fan. I am a deeply worried, horrified, pained Broncos fan... but I am giving up another title. That of a blind Shanahan follower. Why you ask?

After a bad loss, or even a close game, it's natural to go over the pros and cons of the games, see where the team is standing, where they can improve... it give you something to think about and hope for, to somehow justify the week of ribbings you'll get for being a tried and true fan.

So what's up with the Broncs?

At the beginning of the season, many popular analysts suggested that the Broncos main shortcomings were at wide reciever and defensive line. Well, Javon Walker has been good (when healthy), Brandon Marshall has been a force to watch, and Brandon Stokely is probably one of the best thirds a team could ask for. Martinez isn't bad, and Rod Smith hasn't been ruled out yet, so, all clear there. As for the defensive front, Elvis Dumerville is one of the AFC leaders in sacks. QBs are under more presure, and there are more backfield tackles... but then what's wrong with the team?

Special teams - There was a thought that Domink Hixon was to blame for bad special team performaces, and so today he was replaced by Brian Clark... who fumbled and had about as many yards as Hixon. The problem is, when another team kicks, everyone arrives in front of the carrier about the same time the ball arrives. There doesn't seem to be much blocking. This is a vast difference from when the Broncos kick away, and teams are able to establish running lanes and block patterns... and then go out for coffee, write a birthday card to their grandmother, get it in the post office box to make Monday morning pick up, get back to the field, re-establish the block system just in time to greet the Broncos special teams unit. I seriously thought that special teams coach Scott O'Brien was supposed to fix the problems we had out there... and why, exactly, is Champ Bailey out there? Running 85 yards downfield to try and make a tackle is tiring work... for a good handful of players, it is there only purpose in the NFL. They live for it, and we don't obviously have enough because our defensive cornerstone probowl corner is out there.

Injuries - OK, you can never fully account for these, but some of our biggest names on both sides of the ball have missed time, and it's hurt in key situations. Which brings us to the next point.

Deapth - As I mentioned earlier, WR might be OK here, but between the defensive secondary, the linebacking corp and the o-linemen, I don't know if the team has that much blood to bleed, and the drop off in talent between starters and second string players is obvious. Huge holes develop on the field, and without announcement, you know exactly what player went out.

Linebackers - Last year, Ian Gold went to great efforts to prove he had not lost a step. Now constantly caught in offensive mismatches, it appears he's lost two. D.J. Williams has proven himseld a phenominal athlete by appearing to be adequate at this position. Like most of the defense, it's unclear if he knows where to be most of the time, he's not reading well or adjusting, but his physical ability lets him make up the difference. Webster has flashes of brilliance, but they are few and far between and he is not the caliber of starter we are used to seeing in Denver. So... how is Al Wilson these days? Because now, more than ever, I miss him.

General defense - We give up the run. Our two outstanding corners get beat with some consistency. Our safties are covering like corners. What our defense lacks is any sense of a consistent personality. We're not hard hitting. We're not smart. We're not fast. We're not shutdown. We have individual players who may hold one or more of those titles, but the defense as a whole has no single focus, and as such, we look lost. Instead of forcing teams to beat us in one particular fashion, we try to cover for all of it, which lets a team beat us every which way.

Jay Cutler - I will be forgiving. You are making errors that anyone new to the position is prone to make, and you are showing some amazing capabilties that let us dream of what could be. But still, take up meditation or something to calm the heck down.

Runningbacks - I think they're good... but...

O-Line - As first shown with the Raiders to some degree, and then heavily with the Jags, the Colts, and again, some today with the Chargers, you're job is to force the defender where you want him to go, not the other way. The vaunted Denver o-line zone running system looks like it should have retired years ago.

And finally, offensive play calling -  Seriously?! You think because they stopped you on down 1 and 2 when running up the middle that you may surprise them by doing it again on 3? You think that you can "trick" another team on 3rd (or all too often 4th) and long by going underneath, when you've never really proven you can go long?  And stop designing QB sneaks for 4th and 4. It doesn't work. Jay is one big tough guy, but it simply doesn't work. My football experience may be limited, but even I know better than that.

And the combination has led me for the first time to judge my coach as inept. The season is long, there are many chances to get a team in order, but I was really under the impression that this would be a strong year for the Broncs.

Instead, I am left trying to rationalize into a bye. Maybe we all need a break.

Oh, and before I get all the "Broncos s.u.c.k" comments, realize a few things.

Raiders fans - Chances are, we'll still get more than the 2 wins we have already
KC fans - The future of your team is Brodie Croyle and Dwayne Bowe. The glass may be half full, but it's still half-glass-ed.
Charger fans - One week ago, you didn't sound so different.
Everyone else - You've all had your ups and downs. You didn't like it when someone else rubbed it in. Wasn't needed. Your love for the team meant you criticized harder than anyone, right? Right.

Football is a wonderful game. Strategy, physical talent, improv, and planning... this game is amazing... but I'm also getting p.issy about things that impeed my fandom... here's a list of things I could do without...

1) Whiney coaches - OK, stealing signals is one thing. I mean, it's like looking at another guys' cards in poker... that being said, if you can get away with it, you just might find yourself to be the peeking type. But then this crud about mimicking snap counts, or calling time outs, or sending tapes to the NFL AFTER you've already won the game? Seriously? I don't want to hear it. I don't want to read about it. I don't want to hear from long retired coaches about how they used to get away with things or not get away with things. I want to watch football.

2) Nicknames - Oh man, so sick of this, especially since most of them don't last too long. Abbreviations are fine. If I mention L.J. or L.T. to my friends, they know who I mean (though if I mention L.T. to my dad, he's liable to get confused). But since Daunte Hall was dubbed "the human joystick", it's all been downhill. I just wonder how long before Chicago's Adrian Peterson becomes known simply as "The other"

3) Sports writers making vague references -  I just read an article where someone mentions the "S.S. Minow". Really? Look, the references aren't helping anyone out. They can only hurt, so stop. I mean, if Dennis Miller couldn't pull it off like a greek tradgedy, why should you do any better?

4) Tony Kornheiser - Speaking of commentators destroying MNF, I actually cancelled my cable service to avoid hearing this man call another game ever again. In preseason, he talked about David Copperfield and refs wearing sequened dresses. Does he even know where he is?

5) Animal rights activists - Look, we can all agree Vick is a bad, bad man, but I really don't want PETA jumping up on Sunday and declaring who the baby seal thinks should win. I don't have anything against the cause exactly, except that it's still kind of polar to football fandom, and this excuse for a podium stinks. It's like Soviet Russia and The U.S. agreeing n.azism is a bad thing. Once it's over, stay off of eachother's property. We're still grilling burgers in the parking lot before the game.

6) Race issues - Please, just stop. Play the game.

7) Article responses - Look, I'm glad the internet allows us all to post our opinions on something, but I'm sick of seeing people rush to post "FIRST!" next to a new article, as if they've been salivating all night waiting for the queue to update. It's the same muck rakers who throw out barbs that aren't needed to fuel a fire and list their killer blog about their kids' soccor team as an NFL blog just to rise to the top of the screen. Get over yourself.

8) Personal life articles - Don't care who Tom Brady is putting babies in. Don't care about Strahan's divorce. Don't care who goes to what clubs. Don't care. Don't care.

9) Oh, and bleeps in blogs. I don't know, someday, when people can post blogs like adults we won't have to get fancy to keep certain words (fully approved by the FCC) from turning into a blue bleep on the foxsports screen.

OK, that's the short list, but can't we just get down with fandom? Can't we stay focused on the sport itself and not turn the NFL into Hollywood part 2? I beg for sanity in sports. I beg for respect amongst fans.

Peace on earth, and killer Sundays to all...

I am not one to believe I am wrong too often. Honestly, I’m pretty self-righteous, so when I begin prognosticating, I’m putting a bit on the line… and the following teams, players, and twists of fate have already ruined it for me…

 

1) The Patriots. OK, they can be shady. I’m not surprised. I don’t think it’s an uncommon issue in the NFL, and I don’t like it. I also question their treatment of the team itself… I’ve always said Belichick creeped me out. But I also said that I questioned the Pats ability to gel as a team and play as well as they seemed able on paper. I was wrong. Beating the Jets was one thing, but the way they shut down and burned up the Chargers was another. I hate them, but they are a team to beat.

2) The Saints. Granted, it’s only week 2, and it is not the time to declare anyone dead in the water, but I now question my own sanity in picking them to go all the way to the Super Bowl and… win. It’s not that I don’t consider them still capable, it’s just I’m horribly dismayed by the terrible play of an “improved” defense, and the short, conservative approach taken earlier in the game. That’s not what propelled them so far last year. If they don’t start picking it up and playing like a team on a mission, they will leave many people looking stupid.

3) The Falcons. This might have been more wishful thinking, but I really wanted Joey to do well. I really wanted the Falcons to do well. I really thought they might actually do… OK. Now, not only will they make me look silly for picking them to do well, but also because I picked Tennessee and Minnesota to be the worst…

4) Steven Jackson: During my fantasy drafts, Jackson was listed as my #2 selection. He looks lost and vulnerable out there, and with Pace out, I’m suddenly relieved that of my many FF leagues, I never got to draft second.

5) The NFC. I still don’t believe the NFC on the whole is on par with the AFC. It’s just, within the NFC, my rankings were all upside-down, it seems. Darn them.

 

But there is a silver lining, folks. I’m not wrong all the time. Here’s why…

 

1) Carson Palmer. I said he would come back to full strength, and the offense would take off in Cincinnati again. I was right. I just didn’t foresee the defense being “give up 51 points to the Browns” bad.

2) The Panthers. I said with a healthy Steve Smith, Delhomme would look good again, and they could make themselves into players in the NFC… which brings us to…

3) The Texans. Looks like Kubs finally has a team this year… and they could rule the NFC. Too bad about not being in there… Still, don’t be surprised if they make waves this year.

4) I said Culpepper would be a great mentor for JaMarcus Russell. If nothing else, it seems like they can share a lot of quality bench time together.

5) I said Denver would be the top of the AFC West… and this week, they are. This may change, as people are quick to point out that last second field goals against so-so teams are not a good sign, and I would sort of agree. Except that I remember many a year where Denver did not play at their own level, but at the level of their opposition. Conservative game play was opted for over putting a team away, and errors could nearly take the game out of their hands. It’s not good for a guy with high blood pressure to watch this sort of thing. But, as the trite saying goes, “A win is a win”. And for anyone claiming Shannahan cheated, it’s called “icing the kicker”, and it’s one of the oldest coaches’ tricks. And for the record, that game proved another part of my season predictions. The Raiders are going to be better than anyone thinks.

OK, so these things are largely pointless, I know, but a few folks have been brave enough to post their prognostications for this season, and I thought I'd put mine out there just cause... a ranked review of NFL teams as I see it, and a playoff projection... fault me all you want... I just wanted to say it before the start of the season Thursday...

32. Titans: I think we will learn that Vince Young is the man... and the Madden curse is for real. I don't think the Titans win a game without Vince. Holes in the D, no O-line, poor recievers, scrub running backs... not good.

31. Vikings: There's just too many issues here. I think we'll see close games and few victories.

30. Chiefs: The QB thing is messy, the D hasn't been showing very capable, and while having LJ in is great, I question how many more 25-plus carry games he can take.

29. Bills: I hate putting them here, but I think this is another poor to mediocre season before they break out next year... they're going in the right direction, it will just take time.

28. Raiders: Don't get me wrong, I think we'll see an improvement here, and if they can address their o-line next year, I will look forward to the old Denver/Oakland showdowns.

27. Giants: The good news for New York fans, Coughlin will be gone next year.

26. Dolphins: Not a good sign when you're hometown fans boo you in preseason. Green was a bad move, and Cam is death on wheels.

25. Bucs: I think they've made some good moves, but they have been willing to show they don't trust the players they have, and it becomes a ship held together with duct tape.

24. Redskins: Big signings of mediocre players only gets you so far. I've not like Gibbs since his return, and I think the team will look a bit lost again this year.

23. Browns: Yet another team on the cusp of doing big things, I only hope Crennel keeps his job long enough to this come to fruition.

22. Cardinals: I think it's the trouble with a new coach, young talent in a very competitive division. They may surprise a lot of people this year and do major damage, but I think it's more likely they end here.

21. Packers: I love their D, but I can't get past the fact that there still isn't much help for Favre in the line or at running back. Seems a shame. He does have good WR, but I don't think it's enough.

20. Texans: The firs of my "so-so" teams, I want them to win, and I think it's a matter of key players stepping up. They have some very tough games this year, but they could do well. Or horrible.

19. Falcons: I will be cheering for them this year. I want them to go to the playoffs sans "he who should no longer be mentioned in blogs anymore". I just don't know if they can. Go Joey!

18. Jets: Last year, they we're a surprise to do so well, and while the same pieces are there, I don't know if there is a team that won't see them coming this time around.

17. Steelers: They had to land somewhere, and while I was encouraged to see their D looking angry again in the preseason, I think there are heavy injury and instability issues.

16. Panthers: I think they will do well if Jake starts all year. I don't think Carr is an improvement, and if Delhomme can't get it done, the team problems go further than QB.

15. Lions: My candidate for a second half surge, I don't think they'll take 10 games as predicted, but I think they will show signs of brilliance before the GM blows the team up again.

14. 49ers: Again, another team rising who will simply fall short. Again, there are some injury issues as well as some team chemistry that I think needs to be developed.

13. Bears: I know. Shocking. The good news is, they will still win their division. Bad news, they will take too long to realize Rex hurts them, not helps them.

12. Seahawks: A team on a slight decline, having Alexander back will help them make a wildcard bid. While he was often injured, I think they'll miss Jackson.

11. Jaguars: I think setting on one QB is a good thing for them. Their D is good and so is their run game. I think they fall just short of a wildcard.

10. Rams: I think the high powered O will rear it's head this year, and take the West, but not by a whole bunch. The D is still sketchy, but may hold together enough to win out.

9. Eagles: If Donovan stays healthy, they will do some damage, and take the other NFC wildcard bid. It's all about timing with this team, and I see them doing quite well.

8. Cowboys: Hugely potent, and seeming to gel, this might be the boys year to return to the Super Bowl. I still question Wade as a head coach and Romo as a top QB, but you can't deny their ability... in the NFC.

7. Bengals: Carson looks good again, and while the D is only so-so at best, I look for many high scoring shootouts with the Bengals on top. I think they pull down a wild card.

6. Colts: Last year's Super Bowl champs have not helped a regular season nightmare defense, and regardless of their wonderful O, I think they'll still have problems.

5. Broncos: Call me a homer, but on paper, this is where they belong. It's just a matter of the defensive scheme coming together and Cutler stepping up. Two large x-factors, but as a Broncos fan, I'm sure it will happen.

4. Saints: It's hard not to think of them as the top NFC contender. The parts that worked for them last year are still there, and the D had some very good signings this off-season.

3. Patriots: Everyone's seeming Superbowl lock is also leaning on injury prone WR (Moss and Stallworth), and a back with a nagging injury. I still think they'll be good, but not the tops.

2. Chargers: The most talent stacked team in the NFL, having recievers can only help them... but I'm still not sold on a coaching staff. Still, I think teams will have a problem keeping up with them.

1. Ravens: This is where I expect the most arguement. I love defense, and I think the Ravens' D will terrorize other teams. I think McGahee will help and McNair will prove adequate enough to send Baltimore to the top.

Result:
NFC - (1) Saints (2)Cowboys (3) Rams (4)Bears (5)Eagles (6) Seahawks
AFC - (1) Ravens (2) Chargers (3) Patriots (4) Colts (5) Broncos (6) Bengals

PLAYOFFS:

WIldcard:
NFC -
(3) Rams - (6)Seahawks: WINNER - Rams
(4) Bears - (5) Eagles: WINNER - Bears

AFC-
(3) Patriots - (6) Bengals: WINNER - Patriots
(4) Colts - (5) Broncos: WINNER - Broncos

Week 2:
NFC-
(1) Saints - (4) Bears: WINNER - Saints
(2) Cowboys - (3) Rams: WINNER - Cowboys

AFC-
(1) Ravens - (5) Broncos: WINNER - Broncos
(2) Chargers - (3) Patriots: WINNER - Chargers

Championship:
NFC-
(1) Saints - (2) Cowboys: WINNER - Saints

AFC-
(2) Chargers - (5)Broncos: WINNER - Chargers

SUPERBOWL-
Chargers - Saints
WINNER: SAINTS

Yep. Picking the Saints to win. Why? I don't know. This is all psychic prediction. At least I stopped my Broncs at the AFC championship. They could have won... in my world.

As I said, it's all #### anyway, but I figure I'd take a shot.

Enjoy the season, folks!

Here is a list of my humble wants for the 2007 season... so far.
#1. Joey Harrington makes the pro bowl. This would be beautiful, and something that would bring pride back to the ATL. I used to make sandwiches at Subway in Eugene, Oregon for the guy, and he was nice. I’ve been hoping for a break out opportunity for him for a while, and while the horrible Lions offense of years ago and the sketchy Miami playbook/offensive injury bug has been easy to blame in the past, I think Joey is losing chances to make a (good) name for himself. (Atlanta goes 9-7)
#2. Browns almost make the playoffs. Like a smart kid at Christmas, I know it’s dumb to wish for the impossible, so I won’t. Instead, I want the Browns to improve just enough that Crennel can keep his job. I think he’s done a good job of building, and it would suck to hand over the car keys just when you have finished rebuilding the engine. (Browns go 8-8)
#3. By week 6, the Patriots are calling Tom’s off-field behavior a distraction. I mean, why not? How great would it be if the entire balance of the team switches to Randy Moss being a team guy, and Tom’s complaining “They don’t let me throw the ball enough!” (Pats go 8-8)
#4. Vince Young plays every other regular season game, and wins all of them, and then goes down with a different injury at every other Monday practice... proving that the Madden Curse is real and that Vince really does just win games. (Titans go 8-8).
#5. Thomas Jones doubles Cedric Bensons season rushing total. I’m sorry, but the Bears gave him away, and the Jets are likely to take advantage. (Jets go 10-6, Bears 6-10)
#6. Lane Kiffin gives the Oakland fans something to smile about by winning a handful of games, but loses popularity mid-season when he breaks into tears and asks the black hole faithful to “just be nicer”. (Raiders go 7-9)
#7. The Philadelphia Eagles don’t lose a single player to injury. (Eagles go 11-5)
#8. The Bucs try a new system of starting one QB per quarter. It doesn’t work out too well, but it’s fun to watch. (Bucs go 6-11)
#9. Norv Turner decides it is a good choice to let L.T. play QB as well, and it works on occasion. (Chargers go 10-6)
#10. Houston’s defensive line becomes the harshest run stoppers in the NFL. (Texans go 8-8)
#11. Taking a cue from NASCAR, Peyton Manning decks his uniform in stickers from Reebok, Sprint, Gatorade, and 2 dozen other companies. After every victory, he thanks God, then the sponsors for letting this all come true. (Colts go 10-6)
#12. Previously thought as someone drafted way too early, Ted Ginn Jr. breaks every rookie receiving mark and return mark, earning him rookie of the year. Somehow, this doesn’t help the Dolphins win too often. (Dolphins go 6-10)
#13. Tom Coughlin challenges Jeremy Shockey to a street fight and wins. Eli Manning tries to follow his brother’s lead and decks his uniform out for Keds, Ajax cleanser, a number of unions, and a sticker that simply says “Water”. Fans rename the home field to “Jets stadium”. Michael Strahan’s wife claims that she now holds his team records. (Giants go 4-12)
#14. Chad Johnson celebrates a touchdown by racing a pack of whippets around the stadium, outrunning them, and then singing a duet with Bootsie Collins. It takes a total of 18 minutes to complete. Johnson gets fined $1 million, but the Bengals still win. (Bengals 10-6)
#15. After a shocking loss to the Bengals, Steve McNair claims it wasn’t really him at QB after he switches uniforms with Willis McGahee. The whole incident is laughed off as Baltimore steamrolls into the playoffs. (Ravens 11-5)
#16. The Arizona Cardinals actually make the playoffs on the justification that they won more games than anyone really thought they would. (Cards 9-7)
#17. Broncos win the Bowl, baby. (15-1)
#18. The Broncos only loss comes at the hands of the Buffalo Bills. In a cruel twist of fate, it is the only game the Bills win. (1-15)

 

Do I expect any of these things to happen? Of course not.

Look at the records. I’m not sure those numbers are even possible, let alone likely. Still... it would be fun for me.

So what plot twist would make you laugh this year?

Odd NFL statements read or overheard:
There are few things that crack me up every time I read them. Yes, I know, everyone is simply out to prove their NFL knowledge, make some bold statements, and support the home team. But some folks are out of control. I shall review.

Statement: Rex Grossman will have a breakout season this year!
Read at: Fox online post.
Response: No he won’t. Take it from a guy who tried REALLY hard to cheer for Jake Plummer. When one is capable of such dynamic plays and such idiotic moves, one will not develop consistency. That is all the Bears needed to win last year, and they couldn’t get it. It does not get better. An attached statement would then be “But last year was basically his rookie year.” No it wasn’t. Last year was Jay Cutler, Vince Young, and Matt Leinart’s rookie years. Sorry. It don’t get better.

Statement: The Bears are still the class of the NFL.
Read at: A popular Fox sports columnist’s article.
Response: No, they are not. If Minnesota gets a better QB, Green Bay proves their running game and stays healthy, and Detroit comes together as a team, the Bears won’t even win the worst division in the NFL. They’ve hurt themselves on too many fronts... I’d go into it, but I have before. No point.

Statement: The Patriots have already won the Super bowl!
Read at: Online fantasy draft
Response: No, they really haven’t. First, there are a lot of games between here and there. Second, we don’t know how this team will come together. They look great on paper, but when looking at this group, it’s the emotional dynamics that get in the way. Finally, have you seen the AFC? It’s a minefield, and there are a lot of amazing teams to pass by. Yes, someone will, but don’t be stupid and claim anything is a lock.

Statement: The Bills will make a wildcard!
Read at: A blog response.
Response: No, they won’t. They are much improved, but far from complete, and even if that division pulls in the wild card, you’re assuming it won’t go to the Patriots and Jets. Didn’t you hear? The Patriots have already won the Super Bowl.

Statement: The AFC West is the best division in the NFL!
Read at: Pretty much anywhere.
Response: No, it’s not. Not when one of the 4 teams was the worst in the NFL last year (Oakland), and one is likely to be the worst this year (Kansas City). Yes, some very good teams have come out of the AFC West, and this season it’s easy to foresee the Chargers and Broncos dueling for the top spot until the end, but 2 good teams does not a competitive division make. The toughest this year is the NFC West. Any of those four teams could take it, whether it is the quickly improving 49ers and Cardinals, the on-the-rise-again Rams, or the true class of the NFC, the Seahawks (who I believe to be in a slow decline, but still). Competitive division means you don’t know who will finish how, and any of the four could end up with a Super Bowl trip.

Statement: The Redskins will surprise a lot of people this year!
Read at: Response to article
Response: This one is true, but only because “surprise” has many connotations. For instance, “I’m surprised the Redskins lost so many games this year.”, “I’m surprised the Redskins won so many games this year.”, and “I’m surprised people still think that Gibbs can coach! He can’t even tell time!” Just saying. No one knows how that team will do, but I think it’s safe to say a Super Bowl might be a bit out of their reach.

Statement: The Saints will win the Super Bowl!
Read at: Newspaper column
Response: Umm... they’re still in the NFC, right?

Statement: The Colts will repeat!
Read on: The eyes of a Colts faithful.
Response: Umm... be thankful for what you have. Peyton is amazing, so I won’t put anything past him, but the Colts didn’t always have the easiest time last year and many teams have become more potent. I’m just saying, it’s not likely.

Statement: Vince Young just wins, baby!
Read on: The lips of every delusional fan boy.
Response: No, he doesn’t. Vince also loses games. Hopefully, Vince will prove that he does indeed lose games, instead of proving that the Madden curse is real.

Now, there have been many other statements made, and I’ll admit, I’ve made a few myself, but all I ask is please, be willing to give yourself a reality check. I’m done.