What a great Sunday of NFL action. It seems like this season that any one team can beat any other team on any given Sunday. Even Indy and Kansas City got close to winning this week.
Rank (Last Week)
#1 (1) Green Bay Packers (3-0) The Packers are the class of the NFL right now. Even with their sub-par defense they continue to win every week. Somehow they are still underrated.
#2 (6) New Orleans Saints (2-1) With a solid home win against the young, up-and-coming Texans, the Saints are still as explosive an offense as any in the league. If they can get their running game going behind the best interior o-line in football, they are going to be tough to beat.
#3 (7) Baltimore Ravens (2-1) The Ravens looked impressive in their two wins and disappointing in their road loss. Consistency is key for this team.
#4 (9) Detroit Lions (3-0) Detroit has outscored their opponents 101-46 so far this season, and proved last week by coming back from down twenty at halftime, that no opponent's lead is ever safe.
#5 (12) Buffalo Bills (3-0) The surprising Bills are 3-0, and as we promised last week, if they could remain unbeaten after hosting the Pats that they would vault up in the rankings. Here they are.
#6 (2) New England Patriots (2-1) This is a big four-spot drop for the explosive Patriots, but the Bills were able to expose quite a few of their short comings. We think the Patriots will bounce back, but another tough road trip out to Oakland may see the Pats falling again.
#7 (4) Houston Texans (2-1) There is no shame in losing to the Saints on the road. There is in only getting five red zone TDs in 16 tries. This young team can bounce back big with a home test against the Steelers.
#8 (16) Oakland Raiders (2-1) That last second loss to the Bills is not looking so bad now. Oakland has the league's best ground game and can pound you to death while controlling the clock with RunDMC and Michael Bush. Can they handle a pissed off Patriots team at home and continue to climb the rankings?
#9 (5) New York Jets (2-1) The Jets looked good coming back against the Cowboys, then dominated the Jags, but ran into a huge road block out in Oakland. They have a big road test this week at Baltimore and can not afford to lose any ground to the Pats and Bills.
#10 (11) San Diego Chargers (2-1) How does a team barely win at home against the worst team in the league and still move up a spot? Too many teams ahead of them looked even less impressive. There is still a lot of uncertainty for one of our Super Bowl contenders in the AFC. We have a feeling they are either moving on up once they hit their mid season stride that they usually do, or falling way down if they can not.
#11 (15) Dallas Cowboys (2-1) The Cowboys are just a few plays away from being another 0-3 team, but Romo and Garret have found a way to get this injury depleted young group to find ways to win, even after finding a way to lose in week one. Another big test at home with the Lions coming in. (When is the last time anyone said that?)
#12 (10) Chicago Bears (1-2) How is a team under .500 this high up? Because their two losses came to the best two teams in the NFL. The Bears are not as bad as their record (well, their O-line might be). Jay Cutler is going to be key to their success and his protection, both from the offensive line and Mike Martz play calling, could be their downfall.
#13 (17) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-1) The jury is still way out on the Buccaneers. They are 2-1 so far and are tied with the Saints for the division lead, but they have been far from as impressive so far as New Orleans. A young coach and young core of players are the recipe for a few mistakes and inconsistency, but can they learn from them and make a playoff push?
#14 (18) New York Giants (2-1) Once again the Giants are only going to go as far as their defensive line and QB will take them. They are severely depleted on defense, but their pass rush has been a bright spot so far. They handled the "Dream Team" in Philly and knocked Vick out of the game for the second straight week. Eli Manning is an MVP when he protects the ball, but more often that not he does not. A road win at Arizona might vault them into the top ten next week.
#15 (3) Philadelphia Eagles (1-2) Giant dip this week for the Eagles (pun intended?). Luckily they host the 49ers this week, but then again, they broke Tony Romo's rib and punctured his lung. Chances Vick finishes the game this week?
#16 (13) Washington Redskins (2-1) Slight drop for the Redskins this week. (My best Dennis Greene voice) "They are who we thought they were!" Except that 'Skings defense under Haslett. They are young, athletic and legit.
#17 (14) Atlanta Falcons (1-2) We are having a tough time giving up on the Falcons, and this is probably higher up than they deserve after their performance thus far. They just have too much talent, especially on offense, but their defensive liabilities are showing far more than they did last season.
#18 (8) Pittsburgh Steelers (2-1) The Steelers probably would not have dropped this far if that last second win against a bad team would not have happened in prime time (see Chargers above). The biggest problems for the Steelers came to light first in the Ravens game and even more so against the lowly Colts. Their line is inconsistent and depleted by injuries, they can not protect Big Ben or get the run game going, and they have serious trouble away from the friendly confines of Hines Field. Not a good time to be traveling to Houston where they have a young, athletic defensive line and Wade calling in blitzes.
#19 (21) San Francisco 49ers (2-1) The Niners are over .500 and if not for a Captain America lead comeback, they would be undefeated. San Fran has beat the teams they should beat so far and lost to the better team. If they can go in and win at Philly, they can really jump up.
#20 (24) Tennessee Titans (2-1) We are still not sold on the Titans, especially with CJ2K still under 100 yards on the season, and now that Kenny Britt is out for the season. That was an impressive win at home against the Ravens, but that opening loss to the Jags is looking worse and worse. They travel to Cleveland this week, and who would have thought one of those teams is gonna come away 3-1?
#21 (19) Arizona Cardinals (1-2) The Cardinals are probably still the best team in their abysmal division out west, and a few teams better than the Seahawks are gonna lose up in Seattle, but 1-2 is a good sized hole to be in, especially with the Giants coming to town. 1-3 is looking more and more realistic.
#22 (26) Cleveland Browns (2-1) No team has benefited more from the schedule makers thus far than the Cleveland Browns. They have played three bad teams and beat two of them so far. And this week they are hosting the inconsistant Titans. Once again, I can not believe one of those teams is going to be 3-1 after that game.
#23 (20) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-2) Jacksonville is not very good, and most likely they will just continue to fall in the rankings, but they did play well in that monsoon at Carolina with a rookie QB starting his first game. Plus they get to host the Bengals this week, so they can potentially double their win total.
#24 (25) Denver Broncos (1-2) This is probably the highest the Broncos will be in the rankings, especially with having to travel to Green Bay this week. Kyle Orton can still do some things and their defense is young and hungry, but they are way overmatched this weekend, and have at least two better teams in their division.
#25 (28) Minnesota Vikings (0-3) We keep wanting to put the Vikings higher, but they keep blowing double digit leads. One more and we will have to supplant KC as the worst team in the league. Ironically enough they head to Kansas City this weekend.
#26 (23) Carolina Panthers (1-2) The Panthers offense looked solid in two losses, and anything but in their one win, but the weather may have had a big part in that. Thye travel to Chicago to face a Bears team that is better than their record and tough at home. Look for Cam to have to wait another week to get his second win. Interesting side story to that game, the returns of Ron Rivera and Greg Olson to the Windy City.
#27 (27) St. Louis Rams (0-3) We had such high hopes for the Rams this season, but injuries and a tough schedule have prevented a win thus far. Luckily they play in a division in which an 0-3 team is not out of it.
#28 (22) Cincinnati Bengals (1-2) The Bengals, unlike the Browns, did not benefit from their cupcake early schedule. It is only going to get tougher as the season goes. Do not sleep on this team for the Andrew Luck Sweepstakes.
#29 (30) Indianapolis Colts (0-3) The Colts get to move up a spot this week because of the effort they made against Pittsburgh, especially on defense. They get another chance to impress in primetime this week when they travel to Tampa Bay on Monday night.
#30 (31) Seattle Seahawks (1-2) Seattle would be a much better team if they were able to play all 16 games at home where they are infinitely better. Unfortunately, half their games are on the road and they still have Tavaris Jackon at starting QB.
#31 (29) Miami Dolphins (0-3) No problem with losing to the Patriots or Texans, but that loss to the Browns vaults the Fins to the bottom and puts Sparano on the hot seat.
#32 (32) Kansas City Chiefs (0-3) Valiant effort against the Chargers last week, but the Chiefs are still the bottom feeders. They have a chance to prove us right or wrong this week by hosting the 0-3 Vikings.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Week 3 NFL Picks
Sean really cleaned up in week two going 10-4, while Stephen barely broke even at 7-7. Both pushed on Dallas and Buffalo. To everyone's surprise neither of us lost our shirts to open up this line of posts. Let's see if we can keep rolling and maybe make some coin in the process.
San Francisco at Cincinnati (-2.5):
Stephen: Both teams have split their first two games, but neither seems to be going anywhere. I think San Fran has far more talent and far fewer felons. I will take the 49ers with the points on the road.
Sean: Andy "The Red Rifle" Dalton is having a pretty nice year for a pretty mediocre team thus far. I look for that to continue against another mediocre team that has to travel half-way across the country for this one. Cincy.
Houston at New Orleans (-4):
Stephen: This is an exciting early season match-up between two of the front runners in the young season. The Saints are explosive on offense and have been able to put pressure on the quarterback on defense, two areas the young Texans have historically struggled with. If the Texans can go in to The Big Easy and come out with a win, they really will be moved into the AFC elite, unfortunately I think the short flight back to Houston will be a disappointing one. Saints to cover at home.
Sean: I wanna say that we have one more week to think that the Texans are for real this year. It seems every year they start off pretty well then everything (including my hopes and dreams) comes crashing down around them. I want to say that is put off for another week but I've got to agree with Stephen.
NY Giants at Philadelphia (-7.5):
Stephen: These two perennial powers in the NFC East are both 1-1, but have had far different play on the field. The Eagles are fast and explosive and a late fluke hit and Vick injury away from being undefeated. The Giants on the other hand, are faking injuries even while the real injury list keeps filling out. The Giants have too many defensive holes to keep up with the speedy Eagles, especially on the road. Eagles to cover.
Sean: The Eagles are over-rated. They can't protect the quarterback. They don't have a great linebacker presence. And they've had to beef up security at The Linc because of unconfirmed reports of walrus hunters out to get Andy Reid. They've got problems, but they still thank their lucky stars every day that they are not the New York Football Giants. Eli Manning is going to have three turnovers in this game. I think that's barely enough for the Eagles to cover though. Eagles by 10.
Miami at Cleveland (-2.5):
Stephen: Not too many people are going to care about this match up outside their respective area codes. Neither team has been impressive so far, and neither will make much noise in the end. I think the Dolphins are the more talented team and they are being given points, even if it is on the road. I like Miami with the points.
Sean: Chad Henne might go for another 400 yards on Sunday. Hell, Colt McCoy could throw for 400 as well. Both these teams are awful. High scoring, mistake-filled contest. I will take Miami and the over.
Denver at Tennessee (-6.5):
Stephen: Here is another match up of two of the 18 1-1 teams. Tennessee looked awful against a terrible Jacksonville team and then dominated a very good Ravens team, so they are hard go read, but apparently much better at home. Denver could not really impress in two home games and now they head out on the road. I like Tennessee to win this one, but 6.5 is a lot to cover for such an inconsistent team. I will take Orton to play better away from the hostile home fans and Denver with the points.
Sean: I'm not sure why I'm going to pick Tennessee to cover this spread. Everything in my body is screaming at me that they might not score 7, much less beat a team by 7. However, their opponent is Denver. Oh wait, that's why I'm picking Tennessee by 6.5.
Detroit (-3.5) at Minnesota:
Stephen: Detroit is the hot young team in the NFL right now, and rightfully so with impressive wins at home and on the road. This marks the first time in a decade that the Lions have been favored in a road game. Minnesota has two disappointing losses and they were in both games late, but their lack of any kind of passing attack after bringing in McNabb is making them too one dimensional, even if they do have the best running back in the game. I like Detroit to cover.
Sean: Adrian Peterson needs to touch the ball 45 times this game for them to have a chance. I thought before the season started that he may slow down a step this year. I was wrong. He is as electric as ever. I love watching that man run with the ball in his hands. Unfortunately, he will not touch the ball 45 times. Detroit will control the clock in the second half while the Vikings try to catch up with McNabb throwing the ball. Detroit covers and goes 3-0 for the first time in 31 years. Wow, that felt strange to write.
Jacksonville at Carolina (-3.5):
Stephen: Rookies Cam Newton and Blaine Gabbert both get the start in this one. Newton has looked impressive so far throwing for over 800 yards in just two games. Gabbert got the starting job this week because Jacksonville's previous starter put up a 1.8 QB rating before getting pulled last week. Newton has proved that he can move his offense and Carolina's defense is much improved, plus they have the home feild advantage. I will take Carolina to cover at home.
Sean: This is Cam Newton's last week where he puts up stupid numbers. Teams will have to start realizing that he is not just a runner. You can't stack the line and make him throw it into one-on-one coverage. Because he will. I think he's proved that. Look for him to put up another 300+ yard game and torch the Jags.
Kansas City at San Diego (-14.5):
Stephen: Wow, 14.5 is a huge number, but the Chiefs have already been out scored 89-10 and lost both their best offensive and defensive players. Not much needed to say about this one, Chargers cover at home.
Sean: Agreed. It hurts to be a Chiefs fan right now.
NY Jets (-3.5) at Oakland:
Stephen: The Jets once again have one of the NFL's top defenses, but their offense is highly inconsistent. The Raiders have beaten a bad Denver team and lost a tight one on the road to the surprising Bills. Teams generally have a tough time traveling from one coast to the other, and I see this one being no different. I do think the Jets are the better team and may come out ahead, but I like the Raiders with the points at home.
Sean: This is one of the more fun games to pick this week. 3.5 is about right. At three points I definitely take the Jets but it's a toss-up for me right now. The Jets are the better team but I'm not sold on them. I also don't think that the Raiders are all that bad either. Give me the Jets to cover
Baltimore (-4) at St. Louis:
Stephen: Baltimore was impressive at home in week one and terrible on the road in week two. They go out on the road again in week three, but this team has too many veterans and far too much pride not to make this a bounce back game. I like the Ravens to cover and cover handily.
Sean: I wrote about how St. Louis was so banged-up in last weeks picks. That's still the case. If they were even halfway healthy I think they have a chance to surprise the Ravens this week. The Ravens don't cover handily but they cover.
Atlanta at Tampa Bay (-2):
Stephen: In the preseason predictions, Atlanta was a lot of people's favorite to make the Super Bowl, but a pounding at the hands of the Bears on the road and a less than impressive win at home against the Eagles have people losing their confidence. The Bucs are a young explosive team that have also been inconsistent, but their QB Josh Freeman has grown into a real leader. I believe Tampa Bay will be able to exploit the weaknesses in the Falcons defense and get the win at home. Tampa to cover.
Sean: I am predicting that Josh Freeman does not throw for 300 yards yet again. Yeah, they're a young talented team and yes, they have the same record as Atlanta. But you call the win against the Eagles unimpressive but Tampa Bay squeaked by a pretty bad team. Give me Atlanta outright. I can't believe Tampa is giving up points here.
Arizona (-3.5) at Seattle:
Stephen: So far Seattle looks like they are battling with Kansas City to be the worst team in the league, but they always play better at home. Arizona is my pick to win this division, but have looked less than impressive in the first two weeks. I think this will be a close one until the end. I am not sure the Cards will be able to cover 3.5, so I will take Seattle with the points at home.
Sean: I like your pick here. You are dead on in your analysis about both teams. In at least one game I need to pick against you for no reason whatsoever. This is that game.
Green Bay (-3.5) at Chicago:
Stephen: The Packers are the defending Super Bowl champs, but people forget that Chicago won the division last year. The Bears have been like Jeckel and Hyde so far through two weeks, and Jay Cutler has already taken a beating. This game is going to all come down to how that Bears line can limit the hits on their embattled QB. If he has time, Cutler can pick apart the Packers defense. Too bad he won't have time. Green Bay to cover.
Sean: I wouldn't touch this with a pole if I wasn't writing a blog about it. I'm going to ride the packers all season though. Give me the Pack to cover on the road against a big rival.....That doesn't sound great.
Pittsburgh (-10.5) at Indianapolis:
Stephen: Pittsburgh has looked good at home and bad on the road and this is another road trip. Luckily the road trip is to Indy where the Colts could not even hold off the lowly Browns. Pittsburgh to cover this ungodly number.
Sean: Another huge number that may not be high enough. I've got to take Pitt to cover.
Washington at Dallas (-5.5):
Stephen: The unbreakable Tony Romo looks to be ready for Monday night, but that is no lock. Plus one of his most explosive weapons in Miles Austin is out for a month. The injuries are really staking up for the 'Boys with the division leading Redskins coming to town. I think the the Cowboys will rise up for this game, but 5.5 is a big number. I hate to say this, but I am going with the Redskins with the points.
Sean: If Tony Romo doesn't play then this line is ridiculous. Dallas will most likely lose outright. If he does play then this line is ridiculous. He's not going to be 100%. The Cowboys haven't looked great and the Redskins are somehow leading the division at 2-0. They may win if Romo plays but they probably won't cover. There is absolutely no reason to pick the Cowboys to cover that crazy spread except that I hate the Redskins. Dallas
Stephen: Sean:
49ers (+2.5)Bengals (-2.5)
Saints (-4) Saints (-4)
Eagles (-7.5) Eagles (-7.5)
Dolphins (+2.5) Dolphins (+2.5)
Denver (+6.5)Titans (-6.5)
Lions (-3.5) Lions (-3.5)
Panthers (-3.5) Panthers (3.5)
Chargers (-14.5) Chargers (-14.5)
Raiders (+3.5)Jets (-3.5)
Ravens (-4) Ravens (-4)
Bucs (-2) Falcons (+2)
Seahawks (+3.5)Arizona (-3.5)
Packers (-3.5) Packers (-3.5)
Steelers (-10.5) Steelers (-10.5)
Redskins (+5.5)Cowboys (-5.5)
San Francisco at Cincinnati (-2.5):
Stephen: Both teams have split their first two games, but neither seems to be going anywhere. I think San Fran has far more talent and far fewer felons. I will take the 49ers with the points on the road.
Sean: Andy "The Red Rifle" Dalton is having a pretty nice year for a pretty mediocre team thus far. I look for that to continue against another mediocre team that has to travel half-way across the country for this one. Cincy.
Houston at New Orleans (-4):
Stephen: This is an exciting early season match-up between two of the front runners in the young season. The Saints are explosive on offense and have been able to put pressure on the quarterback on defense, two areas the young Texans have historically struggled with. If the Texans can go in to The Big Easy and come out with a win, they really will be moved into the AFC elite, unfortunately I think the short flight back to Houston will be a disappointing one. Saints to cover at home.
Sean: I wanna say that we have one more week to think that the Texans are for real this year. It seems every year they start off pretty well then everything (including my hopes and dreams) comes crashing down around them. I want to say that is put off for another week but I've got to agree with Stephen.
NY Giants at Philadelphia (-7.5):
Stephen: These two perennial powers in the NFC East are both 1-1, but have had far different play on the field. The Eagles are fast and explosive and a late fluke hit and Vick injury away from being undefeated. The Giants on the other hand, are faking injuries even while the real injury list keeps filling out. The Giants have too many defensive holes to keep up with the speedy Eagles, especially on the road. Eagles to cover.
Sean: The Eagles are over-rated. They can't protect the quarterback. They don't have a great linebacker presence. And they've had to beef up security at The Linc because of unconfirmed reports of walrus hunters out to get Andy Reid. They've got problems, but they still thank their lucky stars every day that they are not the New York Football Giants. Eli Manning is going to have three turnovers in this game. I think that's barely enough for the Eagles to cover though. Eagles by 10.
Miami at Cleveland (-2.5):
Stephen: Not too many people are going to care about this match up outside their respective area codes. Neither team has been impressive so far, and neither will make much noise in the end. I think the Dolphins are the more talented team and they are being given points, even if it is on the road. I like Miami with the points.
Sean: Chad Henne might go for another 400 yards on Sunday. Hell, Colt McCoy could throw for 400 as well. Both these teams are awful. High scoring, mistake-filled contest. I will take Miami and the over.
Denver at Tennessee (-6.5):
Stephen: Here is another match up of two of the 18 1-1 teams. Tennessee looked awful against a terrible Jacksonville team and then dominated a very good Ravens team, so they are hard go read, but apparently much better at home. Denver could not really impress in two home games and now they head out on the road. I like Tennessee to win this one, but 6.5 is a lot to cover for such an inconsistent team. I will take Orton to play better away from the hostile home fans and Denver with the points.
Sean: I'm not sure why I'm going to pick Tennessee to cover this spread. Everything in my body is screaming at me that they might not score 7, much less beat a team by 7. However, their opponent is Denver. Oh wait, that's why I'm picking Tennessee by 6.5.
Detroit (-3.5) at Minnesota:
Stephen: Detroit is the hot young team in the NFL right now, and rightfully so with impressive wins at home and on the road. This marks the first time in a decade that the Lions have been favored in a road game. Minnesota has two disappointing losses and they were in both games late, but their lack of any kind of passing attack after bringing in McNabb is making them too one dimensional, even if they do have the best running back in the game. I like Detroit to cover.
Sean: Adrian Peterson needs to touch the ball 45 times this game for them to have a chance. I thought before the season started that he may slow down a step this year. I was wrong. He is as electric as ever. I love watching that man run with the ball in his hands. Unfortunately, he will not touch the ball 45 times. Detroit will control the clock in the second half while the Vikings try to catch up with McNabb throwing the ball. Detroit covers and goes 3-0 for the first time in 31 years. Wow, that felt strange to write.
Jacksonville at Carolina (-3.5):
Stephen: Rookies Cam Newton and Blaine Gabbert both get the start in this one. Newton has looked impressive so far throwing for over 800 yards in just two games. Gabbert got the starting job this week because Jacksonville's previous starter put up a 1.8 QB rating before getting pulled last week. Newton has proved that he can move his offense and Carolina's defense is much improved, plus they have the home feild advantage. I will take Carolina to cover at home.
Sean: This is Cam Newton's last week where he puts up stupid numbers. Teams will have to start realizing that he is not just a runner. You can't stack the line and make him throw it into one-on-one coverage. Because he will. I think he's proved that. Look for him to put up another 300+ yard game and torch the Jags.
Kansas City at San Diego (-14.5):
Stephen: Wow, 14.5 is a huge number, but the Chiefs have already been out scored 89-10 and lost both their best offensive and defensive players. Not much needed to say about this one, Chargers cover at home.
Sean: Agreed. It hurts to be a Chiefs fan right now.
NY Jets (-3.5) at Oakland:
Stephen: The Jets once again have one of the NFL's top defenses, but their offense is highly inconsistent. The Raiders have beaten a bad Denver team and lost a tight one on the road to the surprising Bills. Teams generally have a tough time traveling from one coast to the other, and I see this one being no different. I do think the Jets are the better team and may come out ahead, but I like the Raiders with the points at home.
Sean: This is one of the more fun games to pick this week. 3.5 is about right. At three points I definitely take the Jets but it's a toss-up for me right now. The Jets are the better team but I'm not sold on them. I also don't think that the Raiders are all that bad either. Give me the Jets to cover
Baltimore (-4) at St. Louis:
Stephen: Baltimore was impressive at home in week one and terrible on the road in week two. They go out on the road again in week three, but this team has too many veterans and far too much pride not to make this a bounce back game. I like the Ravens to cover and cover handily.
Sean: I wrote about how St. Louis was so banged-up in last weeks picks. That's still the case. If they were even halfway healthy I think they have a chance to surprise the Ravens this week. The Ravens don't cover handily but they cover.
Atlanta at Tampa Bay (-2):
Stephen: In the preseason predictions, Atlanta was a lot of people's favorite to make the Super Bowl, but a pounding at the hands of the Bears on the road and a less than impressive win at home against the Eagles have people losing their confidence. The Bucs are a young explosive team that have also been inconsistent, but their QB Josh Freeman has grown into a real leader. I believe Tampa Bay will be able to exploit the weaknesses in the Falcons defense and get the win at home. Tampa to cover.
Sean: I am predicting that Josh Freeman does not throw for 300 yards yet again. Yeah, they're a young talented team and yes, they have the same record as Atlanta. But you call the win against the Eagles unimpressive but Tampa Bay squeaked by a pretty bad team. Give me Atlanta outright. I can't believe Tampa is giving up points here.
Arizona (-3.5) at Seattle:
Stephen: So far Seattle looks like they are battling with Kansas City to be the worst team in the league, but they always play better at home. Arizona is my pick to win this division, but have looked less than impressive in the first two weeks. I think this will be a close one until the end. I am not sure the Cards will be able to cover 3.5, so I will take Seattle with the points at home.
Sean: I like your pick here. You are dead on in your analysis about both teams. In at least one game I need to pick against you for no reason whatsoever. This is that game.
Green Bay (-3.5) at Chicago:
Stephen: The Packers are the defending Super Bowl champs, but people forget that Chicago won the division last year. The Bears have been like Jeckel and Hyde so far through two weeks, and Jay Cutler has already taken a beating. This game is going to all come down to how that Bears line can limit the hits on their embattled QB. If he has time, Cutler can pick apart the Packers defense. Too bad he won't have time. Green Bay to cover.
Sean: I wouldn't touch this with a pole if I wasn't writing a blog about it. I'm going to ride the packers all season though. Give me the Pack to cover on the road against a big rival.....That doesn't sound great.
Pittsburgh (-10.5) at Indianapolis:
Stephen: Pittsburgh has looked good at home and bad on the road and this is another road trip. Luckily the road trip is to Indy where the Colts could not even hold off the lowly Browns. Pittsburgh to cover this ungodly number.
Sean: Another huge number that may not be high enough. I've got to take Pitt to cover.
Washington at Dallas (-5.5):
Stephen: The unbreakable Tony Romo looks to be ready for Monday night, but that is no lock. Plus one of his most explosive weapons in Miles Austin is out for a month. The injuries are really staking up for the 'Boys with the division leading Redskins coming to town. I think the the Cowboys will rise up for this game, but 5.5 is a big number. I hate to say this, but I am going with the Redskins with the points.
Sean: If Tony Romo doesn't play then this line is ridiculous. Dallas will most likely lose outright. If he does play then this line is ridiculous. He's not going to be 100%. The Cowboys haven't looked great and the Redskins are somehow leading the division at 2-0. They may win if Romo plays but they probably won't cover. There is absolutely no reason to pick the Cowboys to cover that crazy spread except that I hate the Redskins. Dallas
Stephen: Sean:
49ers (+2.5)
Saints (-4) Saints (-4)
Dolphins (+2.5) Dolphins (+2.5)
Denver (+6.5)
Panthers (-3.5) Panthers (3.5)
Raiders (+3.5)
Ravens (-4) Ravens (-4)
Bucs (-2) Falcons (+2)
Seahawks (+3.5)
Packers (-3.5) Packers (-3.5)
Redskins (+5.5)
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Unconfirmed NFL Power Rankings Week 2
Alright, we have two weeks officially in the books, and one thing
is for certain, no one is as good as advertised. Every team has holes and chinks
in their armor. It is possible that a
shortened offseason is to blame, or maybe it has to do
with the salary cap and parody league wide. But there are 18 1-1 teams in the
NFL and this sucker is wide open.
#23 (19) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-1) 23 is the highest Jacksonville will be all season. They were adequate in Week One to get an inter-division win, but after a 1.8 QB rating the following week, McCown has found his place on the bench and rookie Blain Gabbert is slated to start Week Three. Let the growing pains begin.
Rank (Last Week)
#1 (1) Green Bay Packers (2-0) The champs are
undefeated, but they needed all 60 minutes to beat the rookie lead Panthers, and
their defense is ranked 30th in the league.
#2 (2) New England Patriots (2-0) The offense still looks
scary good, but this is another elite team with problems at the defensive end.
Can Brady and Co. keep putting up video game numbers to offset the liabilities
on the other side of the ball? Answer: Yes.
#3 (4) Philadelphia Eagles (1-1) This may be a little high
for a team with a loss already, but the Eagles would be 2-0 if Vick would not
have gotten hurt. They are undersized but fast, and that defensive front is
really taking to the new scheme.
#4 (6) Houston Texans (2-0) I am pretty sure we are going to
regret putting the Texans so high up after beating two teams at the bottom of
the league, but they are currently sporting the league’s top defense (after
ranking last last season), and the offense can tack on yardage no matter who is
running the ball. Now points in the red zone on the other hand….
#5 (7) New York Jets (2-0) The Jets needed a few lucky
breaks to come out with a win in week one, but were totally dominant in week
two. Rex Ryan still has that defense playing at a high level. If only they
could get some consistency in their QB play they could really make some noise.
#6 (8) New Orleans Saints (1-1) Losing to the best team in
the league on the road week one is nothing to be ashamed of, especially when
you follow it up with a beat down of the defending NFC runners up in week two.
#7 (3) Baltimore Ravens (1-1) The Ravens started out the season by
dominating the defending AFC Champs on both sides of the ball, then followed it
up by being dominated the same way by the previously winless Titans.
#8 (9) Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1) The Steelers did what they
had to do in week two by dismantling the Jaguars to make up for the stinker
they put up the week before. Age, wear, and tear may be the downfall to a team
that has been a dominant force in the AFC for a decade.
#9 (10) Detroit Lions (2-0) Are the young Lions for real?
They look good on both sides of the ball, and Matthew Stafford is looking like
the player they thought he would be when they took him #1 overall. If he stays
healthy, the Lions will go as far as his arm can carry them.
#10 (5) Chicago Bears (1-1) Five spots is a big drop for
a team that was dominant in week one and lost to a really good team on the road
in week two, but the defending NFC runners up might not be in the top two in
their own division. Week to week Jay Cutler either wins it or loses it for his
team.
#11 (11) San Diego Chargers (1-1) The Chargers had their
hands full with the high octane Patriots in Foxboro, and even had several
chances to take control, but as long as Norv Turner is calling the shots, just outside the top 10 is about right for this underachieving team.
#12 (15) Buffalo Bills (2-0) The Bills already have two wins
after recording only four all of last season.
They took advantage of playing the worst team in the league in week one,
but looked far from dominant in a come from behind win at home against a middle
of the pack team in the Raiders. I am not sure what exactly the ceiling is for
this team, but they have been exciting to watch.
#13 (12) Washington Redskins (2-0) How does a team drop a
spot after a win? They play like the Redskins did this week at home. There is
not a lot of consistent play there in Washington, but they have a chance to
really impress us this week when they head to Big D.
#14 (13) Atlanta Falcons (1-1) The Falcons are another team
to drop a spot after a big win, but that would not have even been a W if Vick
would have been able to stay in the game, and possibly if Maclin does not drop
that late ball. The offense has been disappointing thus far and the defense
suspect in the ATL.
#15 (14) Dallas Cowboys (1-1) Tony Romo silenced the
critics with his toughness by leading a huge comeback with a broken rib and a collapsed
lung out in San Fran last week, but the injuries are really starting to pile up
for the ‘Boys. Can they stay healthy enough to bring it when they host the
division leading Redskins on Monday night?
#16 (16) Oakland Raiders (1-1) It’s hard to read the Raiders
so far. They beat a bad Broncos team and the Bills needed some late game
heroics to finish of the comeback at home. Their run game is one of the best in
the league, so if they can keep Al Davis from trying to call plays and lean on
Darrin MacFadden and Michael Bush to carry the load, the Raiders could make
some noise in a largely inept division.
#17 (17) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-1) The Bucs were one of
last year’s surprise teams lead by their young QB Freeman, but they aren’t
sneaking up on anyone this season. The Lions roughed them up at home and they
needed a comeback to beat a one dimensional Vikings squad.
#18 (22) New York Giants (1-1) The G-Men jump up four spots, but
do not get too excited, there is lots of room for fluxuation in the bottom half
of the league, and that is exactly where the Giants will stay if Eli keeps
throwing picks and the injury depleted defense lets the opposition continue to
move the ball at will.
#19 (18) Arizona Cardinals (1-1) The Cards allowed over
400 yards passing to a rookie in his first game, but don’t worry too much, the
Packers did the same the next week. Arizona is just a few miss steps from being
undefeated and they play in the worst division in the NFL. There is a lot of
room to move up for this team.
#20 (20) San Francisco 49er (1-1) After a semi-impressive win
against a division rival in week one, the 49ers looked really good against a
pretty solid Cowboys team for most of their second game. That is until Romo’s
Kirk Gibson-esque return and comeback to take it in overtime. San Fran has a
ton of talent and an up and coming coach. They are a QB away from being really
good. Too bad they are too good to win the Andrew Luck sweepstakes.
#21 (21) Cincinnati Bengals (1-1) The Bengals have had a fairly easy schedule so far with Cleveland and Denver and split those games. This has helped the rookie QB/WR tandem of Andy Dalton and AJ Green transition to the NFL. It will be interesting to see what happens this week when they host a highly talented 49er team that is reeling after an overtime loss to the Cowboys.
#22 (24) Carolina Panthers (0-2) Cam Newton has already thrown for over 800 yards in just two career starts. It's too bad they do not have a win to show for it. No surprise that defensive minded new head coach Ron Rivera has improved that side of the ball. If Newton can limit the turnovers and continue to sling the ball, this team has a ton of upside.
#23 (29) Tennessee Titans (1-1) Tennessee has proved to be the most unpredictable team so far in this young season. They looked like a train wreck in a week one lose on the road to a mediocre team in Jacksonville, and then wrecked shop against a superior Ravens squad at home. Hasselbeck looks like he still has a little left in the tank, CJ2K is still explosive, but really needs to get going, and Kenny Britt is starting to look like a star in this league. Too early to tell, but Tennessee may shake things up in a division that is lead by a young team in Houston that has not proved they have staying power.
#23 (19) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-1) 23 is the highest Jacksonville will be all season. They were adequate in Week One to get an inter-division win, but after a 1.8 QB rating the following week, McCown has found his place on the bench and rookie Blain Gabbert is slated to start Week Three. Let the growing pains begin.
#25 (30) Denver Broncos (1-1) Denver barely squeaked by the young Bengals to get a home win to be one of the 18 1-1 teams, but the Broncos look far from good. Orton is going to have to play flawlessly to keep the wide receiver gloves on Tebow's holy hands.
#26 (32) Cleveland Browns (1-1) That win on the road against Indy was enough to jump the Browns up six spots, but they are going to have to show us something with home games against Miami and Tennessee the next two weeks going into their early season bye week to not fall back to the basement.
#27 (23) St. Louis Rams (0-2) We did not like dropping the Rams this far down, and still think that they are the 0-2 team most likely to turn things around and still make the playoffs (they play in the NFC West after all), but turn overs, mental mistakes and losing Steven Jackson to injury have the Rams reeling. Look for these guys to not be in the cellar too long.
#28 (27) Minnesota Vikings (0-2) The Vikings are better than their 0-2 record. They gave the Chargers fits at home to start the season and Tampa Bay needed late game heroics to take them down the following week. Not to mention the fact that they have the best running back in the game. Playing in the most competitive division in the NFL means that the playoffs are a little bit too lofty a goal, but the Vikings sure could make keep a team or two from not making it as well.
#29 (25) Miami Dolphins (0-2) Miami was not done any favors by the scheduling department the first two weeks by having to face New England and Houston at home. They may be happier to go out on the road, especially since the road trip starts in Cleveland.
#30 (28) Indianapolis Colts (0-2) The importance of Peyton Manning is becoming more and more apparent each week. Losing to an up and coming team in the Houston Texans the first week was excusable. Losing to a bad Browns team at home was not.
#31 (31) Seattle Seahawks (0-2) The Seahawks are a mess and do not look to be getting better anytime soon.
#32 (26) Kansas City Chiefs (0-2) The Chiefs lost their best defensive play in week one with Eric Berry, and then followed up by losing their best offensive player the following week with Jamal Charles. The good news is they are now the front runners to go get Andrew Luck.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Week 2 Picks (Don't go looking for week 1's)
Our panel of unexperts here at Unconfirmed Reports decided (a week too late) to start picking all the NFL games against the spread. We will keep a tally all season of how we do to help decide if we should quit our day jobs. Without further adieu:
Chicago at New Orleans (-6.5):
Stephen: This seems like a big spread for an 0-1 team to cover against a 1-0 team who showed such an impressive Defense in week one. I'll take Chicago with the points.
Sean: I'll take New Orleans and I have no idea why. I'm not convinced about Chicago yet.
Kansas City at Detroit (-8):
Stephen: Another big line here, but considering that KC allowed 41 points to a questionable Buffalo team in their own house, I have to go with Detroit to cover at home.
Sean: I want to go with Kansas City here because they couldn't have gotten that much worse from from last year. Then again, Detroit did get that much better perhaps. Detroit
Jacksonville at New York Jets (-9):
Stephen: This is not a game I would touch with a ten foot poll. Nine points is a lot to cover even against a sub par team. Jacksonville is hard to read after beating the dumpster fire that is the Tennessee Titans last week, and the J-E-T-S needed three flukie plays to win in New York on the 10th anniversary of 9/11. If forced pick here, I will go with New York to cover. It is hard for me to believe they are as bad as they looked at times Sunday night.
Sean: Jacksonville is only a slightly less hot dumpster fire than Tennessee in my opinion. The Jets will hit their stride at some point. I think this game starts that journey for them. New York
Oakland at Buffalo (-3):
Stephen: Another toss up game here. Both teams beat awful teams in week one, and I still have no idea what to make of the Bills. Oakland is a much better home team, unfortunately this one is gonna be played in western New York. In a game this close to call, I have to stick with the home team. Buffalo to cover.
Sean: I think the Bills are semi-legit. They still might be the worst team in that division, but I think that just says something about the division. I like the way Oakland played on the road last week but I can't wait till it all blows up when they get Pryor.
Arizona at Washington (-3.5):
Stephen: I would love to be able to tease down that half point, that's how close I think this one will be. Is Tim Hightower going to be able to play inspired against his old team? Can Sexy Rexy put up big numbers two weeks in a row? Can the Cards' secondary remember to show up? I would love to pick my preseason NFC West Champs here, but they allowed 422 yards passing to a rookie in his first game last week. Going with the Skins at home to cover.
Sean: Was Washington for real last week? Was it false bravado inspired by the 9/11 anniversary. I think we will know more after this week. Arizona is a fluky team and I need to see them more. But, my pick with a gun to my head is Washington covers.
Baltimore (-6) at Tennessee:
Stephen: The first home dog showed just why they are an underdog with the stinker they played last week. CJ2K needs more than 9 yards rushing for this team to be competitive. I do see him eclipsing that total (frankly it would be hard not to), but not a whole lot more. The Ravens looked like World Beaters last week with the way they man-handled the defending AFC champs last week. I feel pretty comfortable that they will roll this week. Baltimore to cover.
Sean: This may be a match-up of the best team in the league versus the worst team in the league. Baltimore destroyed a great team last week and Tennessee lost to a team that may give them a fight for worst team. I hate road favorites but this is a no-brainer. You could double this spread and I still pick the Ravens.
Seattle at Pittsburgh (-14):
Stephen: Are you serious? A 14 point spread in an NFL game? Huge number for a league that is defined by parody, but with this one I can understand why. Seattle stayed in the game at San Fran last week until Ted Ginn turned the game into a one man highlight reel, but this isn't San Fransisco, and Pittsburgh is coming off an embarrassing loss at the hands of their biggest rival. Don't poke the bear. Pittsburgh to cover the ungodly number.
Sean: I agree with Stephen. This spread is ridiculously huge. Too huge for an NFL game. I'm losing this one but give me all those delicious points.
Green Bay (-10) at Carolina:
Stephen: I have gone back and forth on this one. Once again, a big number for an NFL game, especially for the home team to be the underdog. I was impressed by a guy that I had no confidence in last week with Cam Newton, but the Packers are easily a top 3 team in the league and the defending Champs. I think Carolina will come out with pride and swagger in their home opener, and even keep this close for a while. But Green Bay has too much on both sides of the ball and will win going away. Green Bay to cover.
Sean: I will continue to take Green Bay every single game no matter the spread. The looked awesome last week. They are also getting some extra week after opening the season on Thursday. Cam Newton was the surprise of week 1 but he doesn't have a chance against the Pack.
Tampa Bay at Minnesota (-3):
Stephen: These are two more teams that I am going to need to see more of to know who they really are. Tampa Bay is a young team with an explosive, exciting young set of offensive weapons in Freeman, Blount, and Williams. Minnesota has the best running back in the game in AP, and Percy Harvin can get to the endzone anytime he touches the ball. Minnesota made the trade to bring in veteran QB McNabb, but he is going to have to do better than 39 yards passing. I will take the young Bucs with the points here.
Sean: I think Minnesota might be worse than their loss last week at San Diego looked. Like Stephen said, they have to get something out of the quarterback position, no matter who it is. And they have to make sure AP touches the ball roughly 126 times to have a chance. I think I'll agree with Stephen and take the young team with the exciting coach here.
Cleveland (-2.5) at Indianapolis:
Stephen: Both teams looked like the are only playing to win the Andrew Luck Sweepstakes in last week's games. The Colts showed why Payton Manning is the Most Valuable Player Ever last week with how the mighty fell to a division rival. Cleveland could not come away with a win in the Battle of Ohio, even when the Bengals started a rookie QB/ WR combo. I think the Browns will be able to pound the ball with Peyton Hillis, but I do not see them doing much else. I like Indy at home with the points.
Sean: The downward spiral continues this week in Indy. Kerry Collins is going to come around with this offense but I think that is still a couple of weeks away. Cleveland will cover in this matchup that will soon be known as "The game that produced no highlights."
Dallas (-3) at San Francisco:
Stephen: I am actually a little surprised by how small the spread is here, considering some of the other lines. The Cowboys looked dominant for 90% of the game last week in New York, but once again shot themselves in the foot to grasp defeat from the jaws of victory. The 49ers looked simply pedestrian against the Seachickens last week aside from some especially special Special Teams work from Ted Ginn with two key run backs. I think Dallas just has almost to a man more talent than the 49ers. I will take Dallas to cover.
Sean: Ditto. Dallas is the better team. They easily cover on the road.
Houston (-3) at Miami:
Stephen: Maybe it is just that I drank too much free Texans Kool-aid in their cafeteria while working with them this summer. Maybe I just do not buy Chad Henne being able to throw for 400 yards two weeks in a row. Either way, I like Houston to keep Reggie Bush ineffective in the run game and Chad Henne running for his life. Houston to cover.
Sean: This is a litmus test for Miami. They had no chance to beat New England last week but were able to put on a great offensive show. If Henne has enough time to throw the ball (very doubtful,) he may have a chance to put up stupid numbers again against Houston's secondary. It's a shootout in Miami this weekend and no one likes to shoot as much as Texans do. Houston covers.
San Diego at New England (-7):
Stephen: Ochocinco was not the only one saying "Wow" after the "video game like" performance on Monday Night. San Diego looks to pick up right where they left off last year with the League's top rated Offense and Defense.... and UnSpecial Teams. I think the Chargers will get that facet under control, and they have a ton of weapons on both sides of the ball. The Pats are highly explosive on Offense, but their defense just gave up big numbers to a bad Dolphins team as well. I like New England to win at home, but seven is just to many points to give to a good team. Chargers with the points.
Sean: New England's great offense versus San Diego's great defense. SD's great offense versus NE's mediocre defense. The numbers say I should take San Diego here. The numbers are wrong. New England's offense is just too much too handle. Also, I haven't looked up the numbers or anything but this has to be the longest travel distance possible for a game right? West coast teams never win these games. Patriots cover.
Cincinnati at Denver (-3.5):
Stephen: Did anyone see the late game Monday night? How is Denver favored against anyone, even the lowly Bengals? Home field should be an advantage, but in Denver they are putting up billboards and chanting for the third string QB. On the other hand, Mike Brown still runs the Bengals. Hard to say which is a bigger disaster. I will reluctantly take Cincinnati with the points.
Sean: These teams are awful. I'm praying for inclement weather so this game doesn't have to occur. I'll take the opposite of whatever Stephen just said.
Philadelphia (-2.5) at Atlanta:
Stephen: This is the game I am personally looking forward to the most. Two top contenders for the NFC crown meeting up early in the season. Michael Vick is headed back to the ATL for the first time as a starter. Ryan and the Falcons look to bounce back after being man-handled by the Bears. Michael Turner was able to break the century mark against a good defense at Chicago last week, and the Eagles have even said that teams should run against them. I like Atlanta at home with the points.
Sean: What happened to Atlanta last week? They couldn't finish off drives. Four field goals was all they could muster against against Chicago. If they turn some of those field goals into touchdowns, they have a chance here. Otherwise, they may be playing catch-up all game again. Philly needs to do a better job of blocking for Vick or he's going to get hit hard. And if the hits start raining, this crowd is going to get rabid. I like Philly to sneak by with the win but not to cover the spread.
St. Louis at New York Giants (-6):
Stephen: These are two middle of the pack teams going in different directions and both dealing with big injuries. The Rams are a young team with one of the hottest up and coming QBs in Sam Bradford, but they took a huge hit when Steven Jackson came up gimpy on that big run in St. Louis last week. New York only a few years ago upset the previously undefeated Pats to win the Super Bowl, but with highly inconsistent play from a pick prone QB and devastating injuries on defense, this is a team on the down swing. The Giants looked tiny last week in Washington, and the Rams have a pretty good back up running back in Cadillac Williams. I like St. Louis with the points.
Sean: Injuries destroyed the Rams last week. Dinged up quarterback, running back, tight end, wide receiver, and left tackle. That's too much to overcome, even against the giants. Giants cover.
Stephen: Sean:
CHI NO
DET DET
NYJ NYJ
BUF (PUSH) BUF (PUSH)
WAS WAS
BAL BAL
PIT PIT
GB GB
TB TB
IND CLE
DAL (PUSH) DAL (PUSH)
HOU HOU
CINDEN
SD NE
ATL ATL
STL NYG
7-7 10-4
Chicago at New Orleans (-6.5):
Stephen: This seems like a big spread for an 0-1 team to cover against a 1-0 team who showed such an impressive Defense in week one. I'll take Chicago with the points.
Sean: I'll take New Orleans and I have no idea why. I'm not convinced about Chicago yet.
Kansas City at Detroit (-8):
Stephen: Another big line here, but considering that KC allowed 41 points to a questionable Buffalo team in their own house, I have to go with Detroit to cover at home.
Sean: I want to go with Kansas City here because they couldn't have gotten that much worse from from last year. Then again, Detroit did get that much better perhaps. Detroit
Jacksonville at New York Jets (-9):
Stephen: This is not a game I would touch with a ten foot poll. Nine points is a lot to cover even against a sub par team. Jacksonville is hard to read after beating the dumpster fire that is the Tennessee Titans last week, and the J-E-T-S needed three flukie plays to win in New York on the 10th anniversary of 9/11. If forced pick here, I will go with New York to cover. It is hard for me to believe they are as bad as they looked at times Sunday night.
Sean: Jacksonville is only a slightly less hot dumpster fire than Tennessee in my opinion. The Jets will hit their stride at some point. I think this game starts that journey for them. New York
Oakland at Buffalo (-3):
Stephen: Another toss up game here. Both teams beat awful teams in week one, and I still have no idea what to make of the Bills. Oakland is a much better home team, unfortunately this one is gonna be played in western New York. In a game this close to call, I have to stick with the home team. Buffalo to cover.
Sean: I think the Bills are semi-legit. They still might be the worst team in that division, but I think that just says something about the division. I like the way Oakland played on the road last week but I can't wait till it all blows up when they get Pryor.
Arizona at Washington (-3.5):
Stephen: I would love to be able to tease down that half point, that's how close I think this one will be. Is Tim Hightower going to be able to play inspired against his old team? Can Sexy Rexy put up big numbers two weeks in a row? Can the Cards' secondary remember to show up? I would love to pick my preseason NFC West Champs here, but they allowed 422 yards passing to a rookie in his first game last week. Going with the Skins at home to cover.
Sean: Was Washington for real last week? Was it false bravado inspired by the 9/11 anniversary. I think we will know more after this week. Arizona is a fluky team and I need to see them more. But, my pick with a gun to my head is Washington covers.
Baltimore (-6) at Tennessee:
Stephen: The first home dog showed just why they are an underdog with the stinker they played last week. CJ2K needs more than 9 yards rushing for this team to be competitive. I do see him eclipsing that total (frankly it would be hard not to), but not a whole lot more. The Ravens looked like World Beaters last week with the way they man-handled the defending AFC champs last week. I feel pretty comfortable that they will roll this week. Baltimore to cover.
Sean: This may be a match-up of the best team in the league versus the worst team in the league. Baltimore destroyed a great team last week and Tennessee lost to a team that may give them a fight for worst team. I hate road favorites but this is a no-brainer. You could double this spread and I still pick the Ravens.
Seattle at Pittsburgh (-14):
Stephen: Are you serious? A 14 point spread in an NFL game? Huge number for a league that is defined by parody, but with this one I can understand why. Seattle stayed in the game at San Fran last week until Ted Ginn turned the game into a one man highlight reel, but this isn't San Fransisco, and Pittsburgh is coming off an embarrassing loss at the hands of their biggest rival. Don't poke the bear. Pittsburgh to cover the ungodly number.
Sean: I agree with Stephen. This spread is ridiculously huge. Too huge for an NFL game. I'm losing this one but give me all those delicious points.
Green Bay (-10) at Carolina:
Stephen: I have gone back and forth on this one. Once again, a big number for an NFL game, especially for the home team to be the underdog. I was impressed by a guy that I had no confidence in last week with Cam Newton, but the Packers are easily a top 3 team in the league and the defending Champs. I think Carolina will come out with pride and swagger in their home opener, and even keep this close for a while. But Green Bay has too much on both sides of the ball and will win going away. Green Bay to cover.
Sean: I will continue to take Green Bay every single game no matter the spread. The looked awesome last week. They are also getting some extra week after opening the season on Thursday. Cam Newton was the surprise of week 1 but he doesn't have a chance against the Pack.
Tampa Bay at Minnesota (-3):
Stephen: These are two more teams that I am going to need to see more of to know who they really are. Tampa Bay is a young team with an explosive, exciting young set of offensive weapons in Freeman, Blount, and Williams. Minnesota has the best running back in the game in AP, and Percy Harvin can get to the endzone anytime he touches the ball. Minnesota made the trade to bring in veteran QB McNabb, but he is going to have to do better than 39 yards passing. I will take the young Bucs with the points here.
Sean: I think Minnesota might be worse than their loss last week at San Diego looked. Like Stephen said, they have to get something out of the quarterback position, no matter who it is. And they have to make sure AP touches the ball roughly 126 times to have a chance. I think I'll agree with Stephen and take the young team with the exciting coach here.
Cleveland (-2.5) at Indianapolis:
Stephen: Both teams looked like the are only playing to win the Andrew Luck Sweepstakes in last week's games. The Colts showed why Payton Manning is the Most Valuable Player Ever last week with how the mighty fell to a division rival. Cleveland could not come away with a win in the Battle of Ohio, even when the Bengals started a rookie QB/ WR combo. I think the Browns will be able to pound the ball with Peyton Hillis, but I do not see them doing much else. I like Indy at home with the points.
Sean: The downward spiral continues this week in Indy. Kerry Collins is going to come around with this offense but I think that is still a couple of weeks away. Cleveland will cover in this matchup that will soon be known as "The game that produced no highlights."
Dallas (-3) at San Francisco:
Stephen: I am actually a little surprised by how small the spread is here, considering some of the other lines. The Cowboys looked dominant for 90% of the game last week in New York, but once again shot themselves in the foot to grasp defeat from the jaws of victory. The 49ers looked simply pedestrian against the Seachickens last week aside from some especially special Special Teams work from Ted Ginn with two key run backs. I think Dallas just has almost to a man more talent than the 49ers. I will take Dallas to cover.
Sean: Ditto. Dallas is the better team. They easily cover on the road.
Houston (-3) at Miami:
Stephen: Maybe it is just that I drank too much free Texans Kool-aid in their cafeteria while working with them this summer. Maybe I just do not buy Chad Henne being able to throw for 400 yards two weeks in a row. Either way, I like Houston to keep Reggie Bush ineffective in the run game and Chad Henne running for his life. Houston to cover.
Sean: This is a litmus test for Miami. They had no chance to beat New England last week but were able to put on a great offensive show. If Henne has enough time to throw the ball (very doubtful,) he may have a chance to put up stupid numbers again against Houston's secondary. It's a shootout in Miami this weekend and no one likes to shoot as much as Texans do. Houston covers.
San Diego at New England (-7):
Stephen: Ochocinco was not the only one saying "Wow" after the "video game like" performance on Monday Night. San Diego looks to pick up right where they left off last year with the League's top rated Offense and Defense.... and UnSpecial Teams. I think the Chargers will get that facet under control, and they have a ton of weapons on both sides of the ball. The Pats are highly explosive on Offense, but their defense just gave up big numbers to a bad Dolphins team as well. I like New England to win at home, but seven is just to many points to give to a good team. Chargers with the points.
Sean: New England's great offense versus San Diego's great defense. SD's great offense versus NE's mediocre defense. The numbers say I should take San Diego here. The numbers are wrong. New England's offense is just too much too handle. Also, I haven't looked up the numbers or anything but this has to be the longest travel distance possible for a game right? West coast teams never win these games. Patriots cover.
Cincinnati at Denver (-3.5):
Stephen: Did anyone see the late game Monday night? How is Denver favored against anyone, even the lowly Bengals? Home field should be an advantage, but in Denver they are putting up billboards and chanting for the third string QB. On the other hand, Mike Brown still runs the Bengals. Hard to say which is a bigger disaster. I will reluctantly take Cincinnati with the points.
Sean: These teams are awful. I'm praying for inclement weather so this game doesn't have to occur. I'll take the opposite of whatever Stephen just said.
Philadelphia (-2.5) at Atlanta:
Stephen: This is the game I am personally looking forward to the most. Two top contenders for the NFC crown meeting up early in the season. Michael Vick is headed back to the ATL for the first time as a starter. Ryan and the Falcons look to bounce back after being man-handled by the Bears. Michael Turner was able to break the century mark against a good defense at Chicago last week, and the Eagles have even said that teams should run against them. I like Atlanta at home with the points.
Sean: What happened to Atlanta last week? They couldn't finish off drives. Four field goals was all they could muster against against Chicago. If they turn some of those field goals into touchdowns, they have a chance here. Otherwise, they may be playing catch-up all game again. Philly needs to do a better job of blocking for Vick or he's going to get hit hard. And if the hits start raining, this crowd is going to get rabid. I like Philly to sneak by with the win but not to cover the spread.
St. Louis at New York Giants (-6):
Stephen: These are two middle of the pack teams going in different directions and both dealing with big injuries. The Rams are a young team with one of the hottest up and coming QBs in Sam Bradford, but they took a huge hit when Steven Jackson came up gimpy on that big run in St. Louis last week. New York only a few years ago upset the previously undefeated Pats to win the Super Bowl, but with highly inconsistent play from a pick prone QB and devastating injuries on defense, this is a team on the down swing. The Giants looked tiny last week in Washington, and the Rams have a pretty good back up running back in Cadillac Williams. I like St. Louis with the points.
Sean: Injuries destroyed the Rams last week. Dinged up quarterback, running back, tight end, wide receiver, and left tackle. That's too much to overcome, even against the giants. Giants cover.
Stephen: Sean:
DET DET
NYJ NYJ
BUF (PUSH) BUF (PUSH)
PIT PIT
TB TB
DAL (PUSH) DAL (PUSH)
HOU HOU
CIN
ATL ATL
7-7 10-4
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Unconfirmed NFL Power Rankings Week 1
The first week of the NFL season is over and it was a pretty good one. We had some record-breakers, some upsets, and some blow-outs (also, some upset blow-outs.) Here's how we think the teams stand up against each other.
#1 Green Bay Packers (1-0) The defending champions did exactly what they needed to do against a good New Orleans team
#2 New England Patriots (1-0) The offense looks scary good. We may have a repeat MVP winner.
#3 Baltimore Ravens (1-0) I'm not sure anyone expected the Ravens to demolish the Steelers like that. A great showing by an extremely physical team.
#4 Philadelphia Eagles (1-0) Granted, it was an NFC West team, but Philly looked good against them. They have to start protecting Michael Vick though.
#5 Chicago Bears (1-0) Another of our surprise blow-outs this week. If the Bears defense can continue to cause turnovers they have a chance to give the Packers a good divisional race.
#6 Houston Texans (1-0) Unconfirmed Reports isn't sure if they are that good or the Colts are that bad. We will know a little more about this team after their trip to Miami this week.
#7 New York Jets (1-0) They may have gotten lucky to win that game, but it's still a W over a possible playoff contender.
#8 New Orleans Saints (0-1) The Saints ran into the Packers at the wrong time. Then again, every week may be the wrong time to play Green Bay.
#9 Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1) We expect a much better effort this week from the Steelers. Or you can expect a much bigger drop in the rankings next week.
#10 Detroit Lions (1-0) The Detroit Lions have won three straight road games. When was the last time you heard that?
#11 San Diego Chargers (1-0) They thought they had shored up their special teams woes, then the opening kickoff happened.
#12 Washington Redskins (1-0) Great victory at home against the New York Giants on September 11th.
#13 Atlanta Falcons (0-1) They've got some work to do this week to get ready for another good team when the Eagles come to town.
#14 Dallas Cowboys (0-1) The Cowboys inexplicably lost against the Jets. At least they have a bye week to think about it in San Francisco.
#15 Buffalo Bills (1-0) A dominating win against a playoff team from last year. Great start for the Bills.
#16 Oakland Raiders (1-0) They continue their dominance over the Denver Broncos with another win in a tough place to play.
#17 Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-1) They ran into the up-and-coming Lions last week but have a chance for redemption against Minnesota.
#18 Arizona Cardinals (1-0) They gave up a billion yards to a quarterback in his first professional win. But they won.
#19 Jacksonville Jaguars (1-0) The won a close game against a sub-par team. They need to continue to improve.
#20 San Francisco 49er (1-0) A good win against their division winner last year. With another home game this week against Dallas, they have a chance to really move up in the rankings.
#21 Cincinnati Bengals (1-0) They're undefeated but this is the highest this team will be all year on the power rankings.
#22 New York Giants (0-1) They lost a divisional game on the road. Eli Manning will be throwing to the wrong team all year.
#23 St. Louis Rams (0-1) If they can't overcome the injury problems that came up in week 1 then it will be a long season.
#24 Carolina Panthers (0-1) The most impressive individual performance we've ever seen from a rookie in his first game.
#25 Miami Dolphins (0-1) Reggie Bush looked good in his first game for the Dolphins. More good news: They only play New England one more time this year.
#26 Kansas City Chiefs (0-1) They still play in the AFC West, but they have to improve quite a bit to repeat as divisional champs.
#27 Minnesota Vikings (0-1) I don't think Donovan McNabb is the answer for the Vikes. We may see Christian Ponder before the season is out.
#28 Indianapolis Colts (0-1) Peyton Manning is the MVPE (Most Valuable Player Ever.) If he doesn't make a quick recovery, this will be a long season.
#29 Tennessee Titans (0-1) Chris Johnson had nine rushing attempts. On that team, he needs to touch the ball thirty times a game.
#30 Denver Broncos (0-1) The quarterback controversy is heating up. I think Kyle Orton has one more chance before they put in one of the backup QBs.
#31 Seattle Seahawks (0-1) I don't think they're making the playoffs again this year, even if they still play in the NFC West.
#32 Cleveland Browns (0-1) They lost one the few games they actually had a chance to win this year. Who do you pick with the #1 overall draft pick?
#1 Green Bay Packers (1-0) The defending champions did exactly what they needed to do against a good New Orleans team
#2 New England Patriots (1-0) The offense looks scary good. We may have a repeat MVP winner.
#3 Baltimore Ravens (1-0) I'm not sure anyone expected the Ravens to demolish the Steelers like that. A great showing by an extremely physical team.
#4 Philadelphia Eagles (1-0) Granted, it was an NFC West team, but Philly looked good against them. They have to start protecting Michael Vick though.
#5 Chicago Bears (1-0) Another of our surprise blow-outs this week. If the Bears defense can continue to cause turnovers they have a chance to give the Packers a good divisional race.
#6 Houston Texans (1-0) Unconfirmed Reports isn't sure if they are that good or the Colts are that bad. We will know a little more about this team after their trip to Miami this week.
#7 New York Jets (1-0) They may have gotten lucky to win that game, but it's still a W over a possible playoff contender.
#8 New Orleans Saints (0-1) The Saints ran into the Packers at the wrong time. Then again, every week may be the wrong time to play Green Bay.
#9 Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1) We expect a much better effort this week from the Steelers. Or you can expect a much bigger drop in the rankings next week.
#10 Detroit Lions (1-0) The Detroit Lions have won three straight road games. When was the last time you heard that?
#11 San Diego Chargers (1-0) They thought they had shored up their special teams woes, then the opening kickoff happened.
#12 Washington Redskins (1-0) Great victory at home against the New York Giants on September 11th.
#13 Atlanta Falcons (0-1) They've got some work to do this week to get ready for another good team when the Eagles come to town.
#14 Dallas Cowboys (0-1) The Cowboys inexplicably lost against the Jets. At least they have a bye week to think about it in San Francisco.
#15 Buffalo Bills (1-0) A dominating win against a playoff team from last year. Great start for the Bills.
#16 Oakland Raiders (1-0) They continue their dominance over the Denver Broncos with another win in a tough place to play.
#17 Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-1) They ran into the up-and-coming Lions last week but have a chance for redemption against Minnesota.
#18 Arizona Cardinals (1-0) They gave up a billion yards to a quarterback in his first professional win. But they won.
#19 Jacksonville Jaguars (1-0) The won a close game against a sub-par team. They need to continue to improve.
#20 San Francisco 49er (1-0) A good win against their division winner last year. With another home game this week against Dallas, they have a chance to really move up in the rankings.
#21 Cincinnati Bengals (1-0) They're undefeated but this is the highest this team will be all year on the power rankings.
#22 New York Giants (0-1) They lost a divisional game on the road. Eli Manning will be throwing to the wrong team all year.
#23 St. Louis Rams (0-1) If they can't overcome the injury problems that came up in week 1 then it will be a long season.
#24 Carolina Panthers (0-1) The most impressive individual performance we've ever seen from a rookie in his first game.
#25 Miami Dolphins (0-1) Reggie Bush looked good in his first game for the Dolphins. More good news: They only play New England one more time this year.
#26 Kansas City Chiefs (0-1) They still play in the AFC West, but they have to improve quite a bit to repeat as divisional champs.
#27 Minnesota Vikings (0-1) I don't think Donovan McNabb is the answer for the Vikes. We may see Christian Ponder before the season is out.
#28 Indianapolis Colts (0-1) Peyton Manning is the MVPE (Most Valuable Player Ever.) If he doesn't make a quick recovery, this will be a long season.
#29 Tennessee Titans (0-1) Chris Johnson had nine rushing attempts. On that team, he needs to touch the ball thirty times a game.
#30 Denver Broncos (0-1) The quarterback controversy is heating up. I think Kyle Orton has one more chance before they put in one of the backup QBs.
#31 Seattle Seahawks (0-1) I don't think they're making the playoffs again this year, even if they still play in the NFC West.
#32 Cleveland Browns (0-1) They lost one the few games they actually had a chance to win this year. Who do you pick with the #1 overall draft pick?
Monday, September 12, 2011
Over reaction Monday
Please please please jump off the bandwagon all you fake Cowboy's fans. All anyone wants to do is be reactionary and make snap judgments right after the fact and on a Monday. There was too much positive to be taken from that game. If anyone had any real expectations of going into NYC on the tenth anniversary of 9/11 and just roll a team that has been to the last two AFC Championship they are lying to themselves. The Cowboys dominated that game for three quarters until finally inexperience, rust and stupid mistakes cost them in the end. This isn't college football. The season is't over with a loss in week one.
What I keep hearing and seeing is that everyone is focused on just another collapse by "America's Team". And a substantial group is trending toward blaming Tony Romo for all of this and the loss, iincluding Tony himself. What people did not seem to notice was Romo carving up one of the best defense in the league for 342 yards and two touchdowns while being constantly handcuffed by an inexperienced offensive which killed several drives with bone headed penalties and blown assignments. Sure Romo was responsible for two costly turnovers that allowed the Jets back in, but Romo was the guy that had them in the position to win in the first place with a virtually non existent run game to support him.
Dez Bryant continues to look like a superstar in the making, as long as he can keep those wheels right. The first quarter he made the Jets secondary, including All-World Derelle Revis, look out classed and over matched. The second year receiver look like a man amongst boys, that is until he was debilitaed be cramps and largely ineffective for the remainder of the contest. Even on Romo's late costly interception, it looked like there was a miscommunication between the QB and his young star receiver, and possibly that Bryant was unable to make the cut he was suppose to make due to is cramping legs.
Rob Ryan's new take on the 3-4 defence in Big D also looks like something to be excited about. On the very first defensive play, last seasons sack leader Demarcus Ware, started the season off right where he left off last year with a sack on Mark Sanchez. The Jets over the past two seasons have had the league's best rushing attack, and the Cowboys held the Jets to 45 yards on the ground. Injuries were the big killer on this side of the ball. When the Jets were able to make their second half comeback through the air, it was largely against the Cowboys' fourth and fifth string cornerbacks.
Before everybody writes off the 'Boys for another season, let's remember that one of the top teams in the NFL needed all three fluke plays, a fumble on their own one yard line, a blocked punt for a touchdown and a 50+ yard field goal in the last minute by a kicker who was almost cut in the preseason for lack of consistency to win an emotional game at home.
What I keep hearing and seeing is that everyone is focused on just another collapse by "America's Team". And a substantial group is trending toward blaming Tony Romo for all of this and the loss, iincluding Tony himself. What people did not seem to notice was Romo carving up one of the best defense in the league for 342 yards and two touchdowns while being constantly handcuffed by an inexperienced offensive which killed several drives with bone headed penalties and blown assignments. Sure Romo was responsible for two costly turnovers that allowed the Jets back in, but Romo was the guy that had them in the position to win in the first place with a virtually non existent run game to support him.
Dez Bryant continues to look like a superstar in the making, as long as he can keep those wheels right. The first quarter he made the Jets secondary, including All-World Derelle Revis, look out classed and over matched. The second year receiver look like a man amongst boys, that is until he was debilitaed be cramps and largely ineffective for the remainder of the contest. Even on Romo's late costly interception, it looked like there was a miscommunication between the QB and his young star receiver, and possibly that Bryant was unable to make the cut he was suppose to make due to is cramping legs.
Rob Ryan's new take on the 3-4 defence in Big D also looks like something to be excited about. On the very first defensive play, last seasons sack leader Demarcus Ware, started the season off right where he left off last year with a sack on Mark Sanchez. The Jets over the past two seasons have had the league's best rushing attack, and the Cowboys held the Jets to 45 yards on the ground. Injuries were the big killer on this side of the ball. When the Jets were able to make their second half comeback through the air, it was largely against the Cowboys' fourth and fifth string cornerbacks.
Before everybody writes off the 'Boys for another season, let's remember that one of the top teams in the NFL needed all three fluke plays, a fumble on their own one yard line, a blocked punt for a touchdown and a 50+ yard field goal in the last minute by a kicker who was almost cut in the preseason for lack of consistency to win an emotional game at home.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
NFL preview
It's finally here. We weren't sure if there was actually going to be an NFL season but now it's here. And so is our NFL preview, albeit a few weeks late. The Philadelphia Eagles are going to win not one, but two, three, four titles with this team. Or like the Miami Heat, they may be exposed for neglecting to bolster important positions that they were weak at, like middle linebacker. Your usual contenders are primed for a championship run, save one. New England has reloaded again. The Saints look to come back strong from a disappointing season last year. Rex Ryan has again guaranteed a championship for his J-E-T-S and will again fail on the big stage. San Diego will be looking to add special teams to it's league-leading offense and defense. Maybe they'll even make the playoffs this year. It looks like the run is over for the Indianapolis Colts, however. Peyton Manning is going to miss extended time due to his third neck surgery. That is a 5-11 team with a 15-1 quarterback. Without him they are nothing
Lets take a look at how each division shapes up this year. After reading this section, you should book a flight to Vegas and bet on the exact opposite from every pick in this article.
NFC East
The Philadelphia Eagles are the easy pick here (other than Eli Manning.) They have the best all-around team starters. They are a little weak in a few areas and their depth isn't spectacular, but otherwise the easy favorite in this division. The Dallas Cowboys will win the division however, because Unconfirmed Reports hates the Eagles. Actually, this is a defining year for the Cowboys. They still have a ton of talent especially at the skill offensive positions. The defense will hope to lock in with the new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan. They have a chance to go deep in the playoffs or stumble horribly. We have no idea what to expect of the New York Giants. Eli Manning is going to throw some touchdowns but he's going to throw quite a few intercptions as well. They're still talented in the defensive front seven but Osi Umenyiora is likely to miss some significant time due to nagging injuries. There is a fourth team in the division but it's the Washington Redskins. They will be on the field every Sunday but they may not be playing the same game as the other teams. Division Winner: Dallas Cowboys
NFC West
Unconfirmed Reports doesn't understand this conference. Seattle won the division with a losing record, yet still won a playoff game. The Seahawks may end up last in the division this year. I'm not sure that they improved the team enough to keep up with the what the other teams in the division did. St. Louis is growing into a decent team. They have the right pieces at some important positions, including Sam Bradford at QB. He will be an elite quarterback in this league fairly soon. This may be the year the Rams take the next step. The Arizona Cardinals got quite a bit better in the shortened off-season through free agency. They picked up the quarterback Kevin Kolb from the Eagles as well as some other key players. Signing Kevin Kolb may single-handedly move them from last to first in the division. If anyone in the division plays halfway decent defense this year then that will be enough to put them on top at the end of the year. Alex Smith is amazingly still the quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers. Maybe their planning on tanking the season and drafting Andrew Luck with the first overall pick. They hired a great new coach in Jim Harbaugh, but they just don't have the talent to compete, even in this division. Division Winner: Arizona Cardinals
NFC North
There are two teams we have our eye on in this division. The first is of course the Super Bowl champion Green Bay Packers. Aaron Rodgers is amazing and only getting better. The receiving corps gets better with every snap. They continue to be one of the best defensive teams in the league. If they don't have the injury issues that plagued them last year, then they should breeze into the playoffs, unlike last year when they had to win their last two games just to get the #6 seed. Our other intriguing team in the division is the Detroit Lions. Yes, those Detroit Lions. Is this the year when they finally stop looking like they are run by a front office filled with chimpanzees? We think so. At the end of the year, we may be saying that the Detroit Lions have the best defensive front in all of football. They have a great opportunity to put the fear of God into other teams and perhaps win a wild card. Chicago won this division last year, but as we all know they are only good every other year. Therefore they win eight games this year. It seemed like the Bears picked up every player that the cowboys released. We'll see if scavenging from a 6-10 team works for them. The Vikings will be bad, maybe very bad. Brett Favre is finally gone. Unless of course he decides to come back later this season. They have a few players with great individual talent but as a whole the team is sub-par. Division Winner: Green Bay Packers
NFC South
This is the most intriguing division to Unconfirmed Reports. Atlanta will keep doing what they do, which is win. Their young offense should continue to gel and they should have another great year. They traded nearly their entire draft for Julio Jones. They now have one of the best receiving corps in the league. The front office took the "win now" approach and went out and got the one piece they thought they needed. Lets see if that's enough to put them over the top this year. New Orleans is awesome again. Their offense is hitting on all cylinders. They rid themselves of the cancer in the clubhouse that was Reggie Bush. They seem to be a happier and more efficient team now that they don't have to try to get him his touches. Last year Tampa Bay took some big strides forward and they hope to build on that this year. Two young players, in Josh Freeman and LeGarrette Blount, lead the offense this year. Freeman is a respectable quarterback, but he doesn't win them games. He just makes sure that he doesn't personally lose games. We don't think they quite get there this year but they are moving in the right direction. And then there are the Carolina Panthers. They went with Cam Newton with the first overall pick in the draft. I wonder if they've thought who they would pick with the first pick in next year's draft. They might want to think about it. They've got a long climb ahead of them. Division Winner: Atlanta Falcons
NFC Wild Cards: Philadelphia Eagles and New Orleans Saints
AFC East
We have another great two-team race in the AFC East. The Jets have gone the furthest out of this division the past couple of years. Two straight trips to the AFC championship game says a lot about where a team is. The defense keeps carrying this team. If they get a lead and force you to throw the ball then you are in trouble. If they get a lead.... This team would be incredibly dominant if they could score more. Watch out for the Patriots this year though. Tom Brady may have another record-breaking year. The thing to watch with New England this year is if their two "problem children," Albert Haynesworth and Chad Ochocinco, create problems in the locker room. It appears, at this point, that their roles will be so limited that they may not have much of a locker room presence at all. If they lose a couple of games early keep your ears open for some choice soundbites. The Buffalo Bills are another up-and-coming team with a no-name quarterback (his name is Ryan Fitzpatrick by the way). They're making the right decisions but it's still early in the process and playing New England and New York twice a year certainly doesn't help. Also, the team owner, Ralph Wilson, seems to care more about the bottom line than the quality of the team. Unless that changes soon, then the Bills have no chance in this division. The Miami Dolphins are also in this division. Division Winner: New England Patriots
AFC West
What to say about this conference? It's ugly. San Diego led the entire NFL in total offense and total defense last year yet couldn't even win this awful division. How does this happen? Could it all be special teams? If that's the case then they should sweep this division after the NFL basically took away kickoff returns and the team picked up some players that should boost their special teams. Kansas City won this division last year but may need to take another step forward to repeat. They've got three young stars at skill positions, in Matt Cassel, Jamaal Charles, and Dwayne Bowe. This division is still ripe for the picking, so this could be the Chiefs time. Oakland won every division game they played last year. Yes, they won all six division games yet finished the season with a 8-8 record. That's how bad this conference was last year. Oakland swept it. The Denver Tebows will give it another go this year. What? Tim Tebow is not the Broncos starting quarterback? It's Kyle Orton? Why is it that the only player we hear about on this team is the third string quarterback? Well, good luck Denver. At least being a mile up in the air gives you a good home-field advantage. Division Winner: San Diego Chargers
AFC North
There are two good teams in this division and there are two teams from Ohio. We have to sit through two games of Cleveland vs. Cincinnati but luckily we also get two games from the best rivalry in the NFL currently. Pittsburgh and Baltimore will be battling each other all year to see who comes out on top of this division. The division winner may be decided by which team whoops up on the other two teams in the division the most. The Steelers look like they are going to be good forever. We know they must get old at some point but they are incredibly consistent. We don't expect anything different this year. When you see the Baltimore Ravens on your team schedule, you look at the previous week and the next week to see if you have a bye week somewhere near that game. They play the most physical game in the NFL. That's something that you can't prepare for. You just have to get back up after you get hit in the mouth. Is Colt McCoy the answer in Cleveland? Probably not, but he's got a better chance of staying alive this year than his counterpart Andy Dalton does in Cincinnati. The Browns and Bengals are going to get punished. At least they will be rewarded with a top draft pick. Division Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC South
This has to be the year the Texans finally make it to the playoffs. Matt Schaub is the longest-tenured starting quarterback in that division now. Arian Foster came out of nowhere last year and ran all over the league. He comes into this season banged up, and defenses will be game-planning for him more, so don't expect the same gaudy numbers he put up last year. The Texans aren't spectacular (see: secondary) but they should easily win this division because the other teams are awful. Kerry Collins is the starting quarterback in Indianapolis now. The last QB to start in Indy that wasn't named Peyton Manning was Jim Harbaugh. Harbaugh is back in the league as the head coach in San Francisco and Peyton is out again. Coincidence? It's going to be a long, trying year for the Colts if Manning doesn't come back quickly. Both Jacksonville and Tennessee are without their starting quarterbacks from last year as well. Jacksonville inexplicably waived Garrard a week before the season started. We get the feeling that upper management sensed that the season was going to go in the wrong direction and decided to save some money by letting him go. Tennessee took care of last year's quarterback controversy between Kerry Collins and Vince Young by letting both of them go. Now they will start the season with Matt Hasselbeck at the helm and Jake Locker in the wings. I smell another quarterback controversy brewing. Division Winner: Houston Texans
AFC Wild Cards: New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens
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