NFL Playoff Preview

I went 11-5 on my predictions for Week 17. That puts me at 157-99 on the season. I had been missing a game in my totals for almost the whole season. I finally realized today that I was missing the Houston/Baltimore game that had been originally scheduled for Week 2 but was then rescheduled to November 9th because of Hurricane Ike.


WILD-CARD WEEKEND
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Saturday, January 3rd (4:30 PM)

Atlanta Falcons (11-5) vs Arizona Cardinals (9-7)

A strong running game and a stout defense is a must when it comes time for the playoffs. Neither the Falcons or the Cardinals have impressed me with their defenses this year, but the Falcons did suit up the number 2 ranked rushing offense in the NFL this season. Whereas, the Cardinals ranked dead last in the NFL on the ground.

Kurt Warner and the Arizona offense have put up some impressive statistics through the air, but the Cards have struggled offensively when the opposing defense has been able to pressure Warner. I think Atlanta's John Abraham (16.5 sacks) will probably be wearing Kurt Warner's uniform by halftime. This doesn't bode well for Arizona.

I look for Warner to have a couple of turnovers and for Michael Turner to have somewhere around 150 yards rushing.

My Prediction: Atlanta 24 Arizona 17
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Saturday, January 3rd (8:00 PM)

Indianapolis Colts (12-4) vs San Diego Chargers (8-8)

This game is a toss-up as far as I am concerned. Both teams have a lot of talent and speed on both sides of the ball. But, both teams have had the tendency in the past to look unprepared and totally flat when they reach the playoffs. In my opinion, this is because neither team has had a coaching staff that excelled at scouting or game planning for their opponents. Instead, both teams relied heavily on their established systems and the individual talent on their respective rosters.

The last 3 meetings between these 2 teams have been decided by a total of 9 points, and I don't think this game will be any different. I think the keys to this game will be turnovers and quarterback play. Last year, Peyton Manning had 9 interceptions in his 2 games against the Chargers (The Colts lost both games).

Offensively, the Chargers need to keep their 3rd downs manageable. The last thing Phillip Rivers wants is to have Freeney and Mathis rushing full speed on 3rd and long. I look for the Chargers to run the ball a lot on first down, throw short routes underneath Indy's zone coverage, and take some deep shots off of play action. On defense, the Chargers will probably look to throw a lot of disguised blitzes against Indy's shaky offensive line.

I look for the Colts to do what they always do. On offense, Peyton will try to read the Charger defense at the line of scrimmage and decide between pass or run. Hopefully, the Colts will realize that attempting to run the stretch play against a fast Charger defense isn't going to work. The Colts need to pound the ball between the tackles on quick hitting dive plays and avoid any delayed running plays. The Chargers are probably going to blitz a lot, so I would expect to see some man to man on Indy's wide outs. Indy should be able to take advantage of the man to man by running a lot of crossing routes underneath. On defense, the Colts will sit back in their soft zone coverages and allow the Chargers to move the ball at will up and down the field.

In the end, I'm going with the Chargers. I just think that Ron Riviera will have something special up his sleeve that will totally confuse the Indianapolis coaching staff. I think San Diego will jump out to an early lead and hang on for the victory.

My Prediction: San Diego 31 Indianapolis 21
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Sunday January 4th (1:00 PM)

Baltimore Ravens (11-5) vs. Miami Dolphins (11-5)

These two teams met in Week 7 with the Ravens winning 27-13. But, statistically the game was pretty even.

The guy to watch in this game is going to be Joe Flacco. Joe turned in a 17-23 for 232 yards with 1 touchdown and zero interceptions performance in Week 7. Can he do it again?

The other aspect of this game that interests me is the Miami offense versus the Raven defense. These two teams rank 1st (Miami) and 3rd (Baltimore) in the AFC only this season in turnover differential. Miami finished first in this category because their offense turned the ball over 13 times all season. Baltimore finished third in this category because their defense created 34 takeaways this season. Something has to give.

I expect this game to go pretty much like it did in Week 7. I think Joe Flacco will have a decent game and the Raven defense will make the Dolphin offense settle for field goals instead of touchdowns.

My Prediction: Baltimore 21 Miami 9
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Sunday January 4th (4:30 PM)

Philadelphia Eagles (9-6-1) vs. Minnesota Vikings (10-6)

Did you know the Philadelphia Eagles have the 3rd ranked defense in the NFL? That same defense ranks 4th against the rush and 3rd against the pass.

Did you know the Minnesota Viking defense ranks 6th in the NFL? The Viking defense ranks 1st against the rush, but only 18th against the pass. That 18th ranked pass defense is a major "uh-oh" for the Vikes.

I think the defenses on both sides are going to control their opponent's running games. Yeah, Peterson will probably be somewhere around 100 yards rushing for the game. But, I just don't think Tarvaris Jackson will play well enough at QB to put more than 14 points on the board for the Vikes.

I look for Eagles to dink and dunk the Viking defense up and down the field. Philly will run the ball just enough to keep their offense balanced, but the majority of the Eagles' yards will come through the air. There will be lots of short passes with the occasional deep ball to keep everybody honest.

Look out for the Eagles. Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb have enormous chips on their shoulders right now.

My Prediction: Philadelphia 28 Minnesota 10

NFL Week 17 Predictions

I stumbled again last week with a 9-7 record. That puts me at 145-94 on the season. That's not too bad, I guess.

The picks this week are going to be a little tougher because there are quite a few teams that have no reason to play hard.

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1) St. Louis vs. Atlanta: No contest. Winner = Atlanta

2) New England vs. Buffalo: Windy!! The Pats will win this one easily. Winner = New England

3) Kansas City vs. Cincinnati: There won't be too many people watching this one. Winner = Cincinnati

4) Detroit vs. Green Bay: 0-16. Ouch!! Winner = Green Bay

5) Tennessee vs. Indianapolis: History tells us that Tony Dungy never plays his starters too long in meaningless games at the end of the season. History also tells us the Colts do not perform well in the playoffs after Coach Dungy rests his starters at the end of the regular season. History will repeat. Winner = Tennessee

6) NY Giants vs. Minnesota: The Giants are going to rest some starters today, but Tarvaris Jackson is still listed as the starter for the Vikings. Winner = NY Giants

7) Carolina vs. New Orleans: The Panthers are capable of being a dominant football team, but they just can't seem to get it all together. Winner = New Orleans

8) Cleveland vs. Pittsburgh: Seriously, what is the point of even playing this game? Winner = Pittsburgh

9) Oakland vs. Tampa Bay: The Bucs should win this one. Winner = Tampa Bay

10) Chicago vs. Houston: The Bears are a decent football team, but the Texans play good football at home. Winner = Houston

11) Jacksonville vs. Baltimore: The Ravens will use this game as a momentum builder heading into the playoffs. Winner = Baltimore

12) Washington vs. San Francisco: The Redskins just aren't a very good football team right now. Winner = San Francisco

13) Miami vs. NY Jets: The Jets have lost their Mojo and Favre is playing hurt. Chad has something to prove and I think he will have a nice game. Winner = Miami

14) Dallas vs. Philadelphia: I look for the Eagles to play hard, but I just don't think they have enough to beat Dallas right now. But, the Cowboy offense is vulnerable and Jim Johnson is a defensive genius. Winner = Dallas

15) Seattle vs. Arizona: I'm not going to be surprised if the Seahawks win this one, but the Cards are the better team. Winner = Arizona

16) Denver vs. San Diego: Redemption. Winner = San Diego

NFL Week 16 Predictions

Hey, Hey, Hey!!! I went 10-6 last week which isn't too bad. I could have gone 12-4 if I had actually trusted my instincts and picked the Texans and the Bengals. I'm 136 -87 on the season.

We've got some big games this week, so let's get down to the predictions.

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1) Indianapolis vs. Jacksonville: The Jags have had a bad year and the Colts are on a roll and can clinch a playoff spot with a victory. Indy should win this one, but I guarantee you the Jags will game plan and show a new wrinkle to the Colts. Del Rio will win the coaching battle (as usual), but the Colts will win the game based on superior athletic talent. Winner = Indianapolis

2) Baltimore vs. Dallas: I have a feeling this is going to be a low scoring ugly game. Tony Romo surprised me and came up big last week. Can he do it again? Nope. Winner = Baltimore

3) Cincinnati vs. Cleveland: Yawn!! Winner = Cincinnati

4) San Francisco vs. St. Louis: The 49ers have shown drastic improvement since Singletary took over and I expect more of the same this week. Winner = San Francisco

5) New Orleans vs. Detroit: I will be surprised if the Saints don't win this one. Winner = New Orleans

6) Pittsburgh vs. Tennessee: The Big Bully is going to march into Nashville, punch the "poser" right in the face, and then walk away with the "poser's" lunch money and home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Winner = Pittsburgh

7) Miami vs. Kansas City: The Chiefs aren't as bad a football team as their record indicates, and the Dolphins aren't as good as their record indicates. The Dolphins have a better coach, though. Winner = Miami

8) Arizona vs. New England: The Cards mailed it in last week. Their season is officially over. They probably won't win another game (playoffs included). Winner = New England

9) San Diego vs. Tampa Bay: This is a tough one to call. The Bucs haven't lost a game at home all season. Winner = Tampa Bay

10) Houston vs. Oakland: Houston is playing for respect. Oakland is playing for a draft pick. Winner = Houston

11) Buffalo vs. Denver: I know Trent Edwards is coming back this week, but the Bills just look like a team that is already planning their winter vacations. Winner = Denver

12) NY Jets vs. Seattle: This could be a tough game for the Jets. But, I have to believe they will find a way to pull this one out just like they did last week. Winner = NY Jets

13) Atlanta vs. Minnesota: The Vikings have the #1 rated defense against the run in the NFL, and they also have Adrian Peterson which should give the Vikes a nice advantage. But, I just read that Tarvaris Jackson is going to start the game at QB for Minnesota so any advantage the Vikes have elsewhere on the field could very easily be offset by Tarvaris' pathetic quarterback play. I'm going to give TJ the benefit of the doubt this week, though. Winner = Minnesota

14) Philadelphia vs. Washington: If the Eagles keep their offensive play calling balanced, they should win this game. But, if Andy starts calling all pass plays this could be a long day for Donovan. Winner = Philadelphia

15) Carolina vs. NY Giants: I'm just not convinced the Panthers are that good. Sure, they win at home. But, they are only 3-3 on the road this year. Winner = NY Giants

16) Green Bay vs. Chicago: I've given up on the Packers. Winner = Chicago

NFL Week 15 Predictions

I did a little better last week with a record of 11-5. That makes me 126- 81 on the season.

I don't feel too bad about the 11-5 mark last week. I figure just about everybody missed the Philly/NY Giants game and the NY Jets/San Fran game. I also missed the Houston/Green Bay game, which I probably would have gotten correct if I'd known Matt Schaub was going to play for the Texans. The other two games I missed were the two NFC SOUTH match-ups. I can't explain it, but I just completely suck at predicting what the NFC SOUTH teams are going to do from week to week.

The only part about last week's predictions that I am actually embarrassed about was the fact that I didn't research the Miami/Buffalo game enough to know the game was being played indoors up in Toronto. Looking back on it now, I do remember hearing the ESPN guys talking about it. I still picked the game correctly, but for the wrong reasons.

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1) New Orleans vs. Chicago: This game has already started and I know Chicago is up 21-7 at the half. But, I have to be honest and admit that I picked New Orleans to win this game. So, I'm sticking with my original pick and hoping for a dramatic comeback. Winner = New Orleans

2) Tampa Bay vs. Atlanta: Damn, another one of those dreaded NFC SOUTH match-ups. I'm sure I will probably miss this one because I always screw the NFC SOUTH games up. Winner = Atlanta

3) Washington vs. Cincinnati: You'd have to be an idiot to pick the Bungles in this one, so I'm not going to do it. But, don't be surprised if Cincy makes a game of this. The Bungles may actually have a few match-up advantages. Winner = Washington

4) Detroit vs. Indianapolis: The Colts looked a lot better last week and this week should be no different. Winner = Indianapolis

5) San Diego vs. Kansas City: This was a close one the first time these two teams met this season. I think the Chargers will win, but its too little too late for San Diego. Winner = San Diego

6) Seattle vs. St. Louis: I hate to even pick this game. Winner = Seattle

7) San Francisco vs. Miami: The 49ers definitely look better under Singletary, but the Fins should take this one at home. Winner = Miami

8) Buffalo vs. NY Jets: I thought the Bills were pretty good, and then they were not. I thought the Jets were pretty good, and then they were not. I'm taking the home team. Winner = NY Jets

9) Tennessee vs. Houston: I've got to tell you that I think this game could be difficult for the Titans. The Texans aren't as bad as everybody seems to think, and the Titans may get caught looking ahead to their next game against the Steelers. I'm picking the Titans, but I wouldn't be surprised if Houston pulled the upset. Winner = Tennessee

10) Green Bay vs. Jacksonville: This is a difficult game to pick. Both teams have massively underachieved this season. My gut tells me to pick the Packers, though. Winner = Green Bay

11) Minnesota vs. Arizona: Frerotte is out and I just have no confidence in Tarvaris Jackson. Winner = Arizona

12) Denver vs. Carolina: I must admit that I have no idea what Carolina is going to do from week to week. They seem to play better at home, though. Winner = Carolina

13) Pittsburgh vs. Baltimore: This is the game of the week. I expect to see a defensive struggle with a few turnovers and some big time collisions. This one is a toss up, but I'm going with the team that has been there before. Winner = Pittsburgh

14) New England vs. Oakland: Oakland is too dysfunctional to beat a well coached team like the Patriots. Winner = New England

15) NY Giants vs. Dallas: This one should be interesting. The Giants are coming off an embarrassing loss to Philly. The Cowboys have their backs against the wall and T.O. is starting to unravel (again). In the end, I think it will come down to the fact that the Giants are a good road team and Tony Romo seems to fall apart in big games. Winner = NY Giants

16) Cleveland vs. Philadelphia: The bad news is that Cleveland is down to their third string quarterback. The good news is that Dorsey didn't look any worse than Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn. But, that isn't saying much. Winner = Philadelphia

NFL Week 14 Predictions

I turned in another less than impressive 9-7 record last week. Its a good thing I'm not actually betting any money on these predictions. If you're keeping track, that now puts me at 115-76 on the season.

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1) Oakland vs. San Diego: The Chargers haven't been impressive this year, but this game probably won't even be close. Winner = San Diego

2) Jacksonville vs. Chicago: If this game was in Jacksonville I might give the Jags a chance. But, its being played in Chicago. Winner = Chicago

3) Minnesota vs. Detroit: The Lions will remain winless. Winner = Minnesota

4) Houston vs. Green Bay: The Packers have been a huge disappointment this year and the Texans have played remarkably well without Matt Schaub. I'm still taking the Pack at home. Winner = Green Bay

5) Cleveland vs. Tennessee: Wouldn't it be funny if Ken Dorsey turned in the game of his life and the Browns actually beat the mighty Titans? It would be, but it ain't gonna happen. Winner = Tennessee

6) Cincinnati vs. Indianapolis: Last week the Colts continued their their streak of playing down to their opponents level. I figure that trend will probably continue again this week and the Colts will undoubtedly struggle against the pathetic Bungles. Winner = Indianapolis

7) Atlanta vs. New Orleans: This has the potential to be a very interesting game. Both offenses are pretty good, and both defenses are below average. I'm going out on a limb and taking the Falcons because of their strong running game. Winner = Atlanta

8) Philadelphia vs. NY Giants: I really like Donovan McNabb, but I think he is going to have a tough time against that Giants defense. Winner = NY Giants

9) Kansas City vs. Denver: Unless Hell freezes over between now and Sunday I just don't see how the Chiefs could possibly win this game. Winner = Denver

10) Miami vs. Buffalo: One would think that a warm weather team like Miami would have a difficult time playing a game in Buffalo in December. But, Chad Pennington is built for this kind of weather. Winner = Miami

11) NY Jets vs. San Francisco: I am really starting to question just how good the Jets really are. But, I know they are better than the 49ers. Winner = NY Jets

12) New England vs. Seattle: This one probably won't even be close. Winner = New England

13) St Louis vs. Arizona: The Rams rank 28th in total offense and 29th in total defense. Winner = Arizona

14) Dallas vs. Pittsburgh: This is the game of the week. Unfortunately for Dallas, the Steeler defense is on a roll. Winner = Pittsburgh

15) Washington vs. Baltimore: I've been underestimating the Ravens and overestimating the Redskins all season. I've decided that only one of these teams will make the playoffs and it isn't Washington. Winner = Baltimore

16) Tampa Bay vs. Carolina: It wasn't even a contest when these two teams met back in October and I think Sunday will be more of the same. Winner = Tampa Bay

We Play Green

I'm not usually one to get up on my soap box and rave about anything. But, I came across a story the other day about Cincinnati Reds outfielder Chris Dickerson and his effort to raise awareness about waste reduction and recycling.

Those of you who know me in real life know that I care deeply about our planet and the environment that we all live in. I'm not one of those "the sky is falling" environmentalists like Al Gore. But, I do believe we need to take care of the planet that we all call home. I'll stop there on my personal beliefs and let you read the story about Chris Dickerson for yourselves. You can read it here.

Then, after you've read the story, you can check out the We Play Green web site here. The web site isn't up yet, but it is scheduled to be online sometime this week.

Bravo, Chris!

NFL Week 13 Predictions

After last week's less than impressive 9-7 showing, I now stand at 106-69 for the season. I knew last week was going to be tough. Let's see if I can do better this week.
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Thanksgiving Day Match-ups (yawn). I don't know who chose these games for holiday viewing, but whoever did should be fired.

1) Tennessee vs. Detroit: Stick a fork in the Lions, I'm pretty sure this one is already over. Winner = Tennessee

2) Seattle vs. Dallas: I'm sure I'll be running the channels by the second quarter. I can only wonder if TBS will be running their "Christmas Story" marathon yet. Winner = Dallas

3) Arizona vs. Philadelphia: This has the potential to be the game of the day, but that isn't saying much. Winner = Arizona

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Sunday Games

4) San Francisco vs. Buffalo: The 49ers are a better football team than the Chiefs, but I still think the Bills should win this one at home. Winner = Buffalo

5) Baltimore vs. Cincinnati: The Ravens 'D" should wreak havoc in this one. Winner = Baltimore

6) Indianapolis vs. Cleveland: This could be an interesting game if the weather turns nasty. Indy tends to play to level of their competition so don't be surprised if the Brownies make a game of this. Winner = Indianapolis

7) Carolina vs. Green Bay: I just don't understand what happened to the Packers. But, I'm not sold on the Panthers. I'm taking the Pack at home. Winner = Green Bay

8) Miami vs. St. Louis: I just don't see any way the Rams can win this one. Winner = Miami

9) New Orleans vs. Tampa Bay: I think this one could go either way. The Saints won in their Week 1 match-up (24-20). My gut tells me to go with the home team. Winner = Tampa Bay

10) NY Giants vs. Washington: Anything can happen in this NFC EAST rivalry, but the Giants look to be firing on all cylinders right now. Winner = NY Giants

11) Atlanta vs. San Diego: The triumphant return of Michael Turner. This should be a good game. Winner = Atlanta

12) Pittsburgh vs. New England: This is the game of the week as far as I'm concerned. I just don't think the Steelers will score as many points as the Patriots. Winner = New England

13) Denver vs. NY Jets: Should be a fun game to watch. I like the Jets at home. Winner = NY Jets

14) Kansas City vs. Oakland: Both offenses suck. Both defenses suck. I wonder if anybody will even watch this game. Winner = Oakland

15) Chicago vs. Minnesota: First place in the NFC NORTH is on the line. I look for the Bears to employ the same kind of defensive strategy in this game they used against the Titans. In case you forgot, the Bears held the Titans to 20 yards rushing on 29 carries. Gus Frerotte will need to have a good game if the Vikings want to have any chance of winning. Winner = Chicago

16) Jacksonville vs. Houston: This is the Monday Night game? Last place in the AFC SOUTH is on the line. Their first meeting this season went to OT with Jacksonville winning. I like the Texans in this one. Winner = Houston

Return Of My NFL Power Rankings

I dropped my power rankings several weeks ago because they seemed absolutely useless. This has been one of the weirdest NFL seasons I can ever remember. It almost seems like nobody wants to win. But, after 12 weeks I decided I would bring back my top ten.

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1) NY Giants (10-1) : The G-Men rank #5 in total offense and #5 in total defense. They can run the ball on anybody. It looks like the only way they can lose is if Eli has a bad game, and he isn't having very many of those lately.

2) NY Jets (8-3) : The Jets rank #2 in points scored per game and they look like they are getting better as the season progresses. They have a really good chance of finishing 13-3 behind a resurgent Brett Favre.

3) Tennessee Titans (10-1) : The Titans are built for the playoffs. Their offense isn't that impressive now, but their strong running game and #2 ranked scoring defense will give them a decided advantage when the weather turns nasty.

4) Indianapolis Colts (7-4) : The Colts haven't looked pretty, but they are suddenly winning games against some decent competition. Let's not forget the Colts didn't look very good during the regular season two years ago and we all know that ended. I guarantee you this is an Indy team nobody wants to face in the playoffs. Especially if Bob Sanders ever gets healthy.

5) New England Patriots (7-4) : Speaking of a team nobody wants to face in the playoffs. The Pats record is clearly the result of them facing a pathetically easy schedule this season, but don't overlook them come playoff time. This team is well coached and has a lot of veteran leadership. Oh, and Matt Cassell is getting better every week.

6) Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3) : The next four weeks are going to tell us a lot about the Pittsburgh Steelers (Pats, Cowboys, Ravens, and Titans). The Steelers are well coached and they have the #1 ranked defense in the NFL.

7) Baltimore Ravens (7-4) : The Ravens haven't convinced me they are a Super Bowl contender yet, but their #2 ranked defense is good enough to win them some games in January.

8) Arizona Cardinals (7-4) : Their schedule hasn't been that tough, but they do have the #2 ranked offense and #10 ranked defense in the NFL.

9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-3) : The Bucs have the #4 ranked defense in the NFL. I have no idea just how good they really are, but I wouldn't want to face them in the playoffs.

10) Dallas Cowboys (7-4) : You could just as easily put the Redskins in this spot. Both teams could beat you on any given day, but both of them could also just as easily lay an egg. The Cowboys still have three tough games remaining (Steelers, Giants, and Ravens), while the Redskins only have two tough games left (Giants and Ravens). I still think the Cowboys are a better team than the Redskins, though.

NFL Week 12 Predictions

Last week I correctly picked 11 games and missed 4, with the Cincinnati/Philadelphia game ending in a tie. I have decided not to count the tie in either category, so my record for the season now stands at 97-62. This week looks like a tough one.
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1) Pittsburgh vs. Cincinnati: No Mucho Stinko and no Carson Palmer equal no chance for the Bungles. Winner = Pittsburgh

2) Tampa Bay vs. Detroit: I seriously think the Lions could make this one interesting, but I've learned my lesson picking against the Bucs. Winner = Tampa Bay

3) NY Jets vs. Tennessee: Conventional wisdom tells me to pick the Titans, but they are the worst 10-0 team I have ever seen. Winner = NY Jets

4) Buffalo vs. Kansas City: The Chiefs aren't as bad as their record indicates, but I have to go with the Bills in this contest. Winner = Buffalo

5) Chicago vs. St. Louis: The Monsters of the Midway should show up for this game. Winner = Chicago

6) New England vs. Miami: Miami is an up and coming team. I just don't think they have come up enough to beat the Pats in November. Winner = New England

7) Minnesota vs. Jacksonville: This is a tough one for me to call. I'm taking the home team. Winner = Jacksonville

8) Philadelphia vs. Baltimore: I'm just not sold on Baltimore. Winner = Philadelphia

9) Houston vs. Cleveland: I'm going with Cleveland in this game, but I'm not overly confident about it. The Browns' defense tackles like a bunch of middle school girls. Winner = Cleveland

10) San Francisco vs. Dallas: This isn't the match up it used to be. Winner = Dallas

11) Oakland vs. Denver: Jay Cutler will have his Thanksgiving feast a few days early. Winner = Denver

12) Washington vs. Seattle: The Seahawks have been such a disappointment this year. Winner = Washington

13) NY Giants vs. Arizona: The only way the Giants lose is if Eli has a horrendous game. I look for Warner to produce multiple turnovers under pressure. Winner = NY Giants

14) Carolina vs. Atlanta: I hate to do it, but I'm going with Carolina. Winner = Carolina

15) Indianapolis vs. San Diego: Neither team is as bad as everybody thinks. But, the Chargers always have a nice game plan for Indy. Winner = San Diego

16) Green Bay vs. New Orleans: I have to go with the Pack. Winner = Green Bay

NFL Week 11 Predictions

Denver vs. Atlanta: The Broncos have been erratic on defense and Atlanta will run the ball. Winner = Atlanta

Philadelphia vs. Cincinnati: The Bengals suck. Winner = Philadelphia

Chicago vs. Green Bay: These NFC North contests are hard to pick. I'm taking the home team. Winner = Green Bay

Houston vs. Indianapolis: The Colts have won two big games in a row, but I'm not sold on them. Houston will give them a game. Winner = Indianapolis

New Orleans vs. Kansas City: The Saints should win this game, but Kansas City is showing improvement and may make this a close game. Winner = New Orleans

Oakland vs. Miami: The Dolphins JV schedule continues. Winner = Miami

Baltimore vs. NY Giants: I think the Giants will win this game, but I wouldn't be surprised if Baltimore wins. Winner = NY Giants

Minnesota vs. Tampa Bay: This game is a toss up. When I'm in doubt I usually go with the home team. Winner = Tampa Bay

Detroit vs. Carolina: This probably won't be much of a game. Winner = Carolina

St. Louis vs. San Francisco: St. Louis could make this interesting, but I'd be crazy to pick the Rams. Winner = San Francisco

Arizona vs. Seattle: I believe Matt Hasselback is supposed to return to the lineup, but Arizona is going to score some points. Winner = Arizona

San Diego vs. Pittsburgh: I don't believe for a second that Pittsburgh will lose two in a row at home. Winner = Pittsburgh

Tennessee vs. Jacksonville: This game has upset written all over it. Winner = Jacksonville

Dallas vs. Washington: I think Dallas is starting to hemorrhage and I just don't think even Tony Romo can stop the bleeding. Winner = Washington

Cleveland vs. Buffalo: My head is telling me to go with Buffalo, but my gut is telling me that Brady Quinn will carry the Browns to victory. Winner = Cleveland

Week 11, Thursday Night Prediction

I had a good week last week (11-3), and my record now stands at 86-58 for the season. Here is the Thursday Night skinny.

NY Jets vs. New England: Statistically, these two teams are almost mirror images of each other. The Pats won the Week 2 meeting between these two teams 19-10. But, both of these teams have changed quite a bit since then. I expect a different kind of game this week from the Jets, but I think the result will probably be the same. Winner = New England

Early AFC Playoff Picture

I noticed yesterday during my marathon day of football watching that several of the NFL commentators were mentioning how easy the Indianapolis Colts' remaining schedule seems to be. These commentators were obviously implying that after the Colts' recent victories over the Steelers and the Patriots, Indy was well on their way to earning one of the two AFC wild card berths. This seemed a little presumptuous to me, so I thought I would take a look for myself at the developing AFC playoff picture.

If you know anything about the NFL, you already know the four Divisional winners in the AFC will all get automatic berths into the playoffs. Then the two "non-Division winning" AFC teams with the best records will also earn a playoff berth as wild cards. If you do the math you will see that there are 6 playoff berths available in the AFC.

The way I see it, there are still probably 11 teams left that have a reasonable chance of making the playoffs in the AFC. Let's take a look at those 11 teams, the Divisions in which they play, and their remaining schedules.

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AFC SOUTH

Tennessee Titans: The Titans are 9-0 and a lock to win the AFC SOUTH Division. They are definitely in the playoffs. They have the following games remaining: @ Jacksonville (4-5), NY Jets (6-3), @ Detroit (0-9), Cleveland (3-6), @ Houston (3-6), Pittsburgh (6-3), Indianapolis (5-4).

Total Offense: 313 ypg (21st) PTS/Game: 24.4 (10th)
Total Defense: 284.6 ypg (5th) PTS/Game: 13.0 (1st)
Quality wins outside the AFC South: Minnesota, Baltimore, Chicago

The Titans have caught a couple of lucky breaks so far this year. I think they will lose 2 or 3 games before the regular season is over, especially if they decide to rest some players down the stretch. They should have home field advantage throughout the playoffs. They're in!

Indianapolis Colts: The Colts currently sit at 5-4 with the following games remaining: Houston (3-6), @ San Diego (4-5), @ Cleveland (3-6), Cincinnati (1-8), Detroit (0-9), @ Jacksonville (4-5), Tennessee (9-0).

Total Offense: 310.8 ypg (22nd) PTS/Game: 21.2 (22nd)
Total Defense: 324.8 ypg (15th) PTS/Game: 21.9 (17th)
Quality wins outside the AFC South: Minnesota, New England, Pittsburgh

The Colts haven't looked too good on offense so far, but did you know they have faced the #1, #2, #5, and #6 ranked defenses in the NFL this season. And they went 3-1 in those games, losing only to Tennessee. On paper their remaining schedule looks pretty easy, but Houston, San Diego, and Jacksonville always play Indy tough. I think they need to go 5-2 in their remaining games to have a shot at a wild card berth.

Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jags currently sit at 4-5 with the following games remaining: Tennessee (9-0), Minnesota (5-4), @ Houston (3-6), @ Chicago (5-4), Green Bay (4-5), Indianapolis (5-4), @ Baltimore (6-3).

Total Offense: 320.6 ypg (18th) PTS/Game 22.0 (17th)
Total Defense: 326.4 ypg (16th) PTS/Game: 20.7 (12th)
Quality wins outside the AFC South: Denver

The Jags just look lifeless this season. I don't know what happened, but I think they are on the outside looking in as far as the playoffs are concerned. They're out!

AFC NORTH

Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers currently sit in first place in the AFC NORTH with a record of 6-3. They have the following games remaining: San Diego (4-5), Cincinnati (1-8), @ New England (6-3), Dallas (5-4), @ Baltimore (6-3), @ Tennessee (9-0), Cleveland (3-6).

Total Offense: 288 ypg (26th) PTS/Game: 22.0 (17th)
Total Defense: 240.3 ypg (1st) PTS/Game: 15.6 (3rd)
Quality wins outside the AFC NORTH: Washington

Pittsburgh's defense has really surprised me this season. Pittsburgh will win the AFC NORTH, but I'm not sure they will go very far in the playoffs. They have played 4 quality teams this year and they lost to 3 of them (Indy, Philly, NY Giants). They're in!

Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens currently sit at 6-3, but their remaining schedule is a BITCH! Here it is: @ NY Giants (8-1), Philadelphia (5-4), @ Cincinnati (1-8), Washington (6-3), Pittsburgh (6-3), @ Dallas (5-4), Jacksonville (4-5).

Total Offense: 323.7 ypg (16th) PTS/Game: 23.6 (12th)
Total Defense: 258.4 ypg (2nd) PTS/Game: 16.7 (5th)
Quality wins outside the AFC NORTH: none

The Ravens are about to find out just how good they really are. They have 7 games remaining and I will be surprised if they win more than two. I think the Ravens finish 8-8 on the year and miss the playoffs. They're out!

AFC WEST

Denver Broncos: The Broncos currently have a record of 5-4 with the following games remaining: @ Atlanta (6-3), Oakland (2-7), @ NY Jets (6-3), Kansas City (1-8), @ Carolina (7-2), Buffalo (5-4), @ San Diego (4-5).

Total Offense: 395.1 ypg (2nd) PTS/Game: 24.9 (9th)
Total Defense: 389.1 ypg (29th) PTS/Game: 27.9 (28th)
Quality wins outside the AFC WEST: Tampa Bay

I think the Broncos will win the AFC WEST, but only because their schedule is easier than San Diego's. The Broncos can score some points, but their defense isn't good enough to do anything once they get into the playoffs. They're in!

San Diego Chargers: The Chargers currently have a record of 4-5 with the following games remaining: Pittsburgh (6-3), Indianapolis (5-4), Atlanta (6-3), Oakland (2-7), @ Kansas City (1-8), @ Tampa Bay (6-3), Denver (5-4).

Total Offense: 349.3 ypg (10th) PTS/Game: 27.1 (5th)
Total Defense: 368.0 ypg (26th) PTS/Game: 24.2 (21st)
Quality wins outside the AFC WEST: NY Jets, New England

The Chargers are hard to predict. They have beaten some good teams, and they have lost to some bad teams. The next 3 weeks will decide San Diego's playoff fate. Pittsburgh, Indy, and Atlanta all come to town. I think if the Chargers lose 2/3 of those games they will be eliminated from the playoff hunt. They're out!

AFC EAST

New England Patriots: The Pats currently sit in first place in the AFC EAST with a record of 6-3. They have the following games remaining: NY Jets (6-3), @ Miami (5-4), Pittsburgh (6-3), @ Seattle (2-7), @ Oakland (2-7), Arizona (5-3), @ Buffalo (5-4).

Total Offense: 328.1 ypg (15th) PTS/Game: 20.9 (24th)
Total Defense: 301.0 ypg (12th) PTS/Game: 17.8 (6th)
Quality wins outside the AFC EAST: Denver

The Pats have benefited greatly from a weak schedule. I'm just not sure how good they really are. I think the Pats will make the playoffs either by winning the AFC East outright or by claiming one of the wild card spots. They're in!

NY Jets: The Jets currently have a record of 6-3 and have the following games remaining: @ New England (6-3), @ Tennessee (9-0), Denver (5-4), @ San Francisco (2-6), Buffalo (5-4), @ Seattle (2-7), Miami (5-4).

Total Offense: 332.2 ypg (14th) PTS/Game: 28.3 (3rd)
Total Defense: 299.9 ypg (10th) PTS/Game: 21.1 (14th)
Quality wins outside the AFC EAST: Arizona

The Jets have two tough games coming up against the Patriots and the Titans. They have to win one of those games to stay in the playoff hunt. They're in!

Buffalo Bills: The Bills currently sit with a record of 5-4 and have the following games remaining: Cleveland (3-6), @ Kansas City (1-8), San Francisco (2-6), Miami (5-4), @ NY Jets (6-3), @ Denver (5-4), New England (6-3).

Total Offense: 303.8 ypg (24th) PTS/Game: 21.3 (20th)
Total Defense: 309.2 ypg (14th) PTS/Game: 21.0 (13th)
Quality wins outside the AFC EAST: San Diego

I'm sorry Buffalo fans, but I think the Bills are on the outside looking in. They should get some confidence by winning their next 3 games, but I don't see them making the playoffs. They're out!

Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins currently have a record of 5-4 and have the following games remaining: Oakland (2-7), New England (6-3), @ St. Louis (2-7), @ Buffalo (5-4), San Francisco (2-6), @ Kansas City (1-8), @ NY Jets (6-3).

Total Offense: 350.3 ypg (8th) PTS/Game: 21.3 (20th)
Total Defense: 328.1 ypg (18th) PTS/Game: 20.2 (11th)
Quality wins outside of AFC EAST: Denver, San Diego

The Dolphins just might sneak into the playoffs. It is going to come down to how well the Fins do against their Division rivals down the stretch. Miami should beat Oakland (2-7), St. Louis (2-7), San Francisco (2-6), and Kansas City (1-8). If Miami can somehow win 2/3 against New England, Buffalo, and the NY Jets I think they will take the final wild card spot with a record of 11-5.

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So there you have it. I think the Titans, Steelers, Patriots, and Broncos will probably win their Divisions. I think the fight for the two wild card berths will probably come down to a fight between the Colts, Jets, and Dolphins. My money is on the Colts and Jets. But, I have been wrong before. I predict it will take at least 10 wins to earn a wild card in the AFC this year.

NFL Week 10 Predictions (2)

I missed the winner of the Broncos/Browns game last night to make me 0-1 already for this week, but I did go 9-5 again last week. As of today, I have a record of 75-56 on the season.

Now, for the rest of my Week 10 predictions.

1) New Orleans vs. Atlanta: Did you know Atlanta has the 7th ranked offense in the NFL and New Orleans has the 1st ranked offense in the NFL? But, the Falcon's have a better defense. Winner = Atlanta

2) Tennessee vs. Chicago: I think this game will be close. If Orton was healthy I would pick the Bears. But, it looks like Grossman will be under center for Chicago. Winner = Tennessee

3) Jacksonville vs. Detroit: The Jaguars haven't shown me much this year, but the Lions are awful. Winner = Jacksonville

4) Seattle vs. Miami: I have to go with the Fins at home. Winner = Miami

5) Green Bay vs. Minnesota: There is nothing like an NFC North rivalry game. This game should be close. Winner = Green Bay

6) Buffalo vs. New England: The Pats let one slip away last week. I don't think they will lose two in a row. Winner = New England

7) St. Louis vs. NY Jets: I don't think the Jets are as good as everyone seems to think they are, but I just can't see them losing to the Rams. Winner = NY Jets

8) Baltimore vs. Houston: The Texans are tough at home, but Rosenfels will probably fold under the Ravens' defensive pressure. Winner = Baltimore

9) Carolina vs. Oakland: The Raiders are a joke. Winner = Carolina

10) Indianapolis vs. Pittsburgh: The Steeler defense is just too good. The Colt defense is just too bad. Winner = Pittsburgh

11) Kansas City vs. San Diego: The Chargers haven't looked too good, but I'm taking them at home. Winner = San Diego

12) NY Giants vs. Philadelphia: This is the game of the week. It should be close, but the G-Men will be up for this game. Winner = NY Giants

13) San Francisco vs. Arizona: I just don't see how the 49ers could possibly win this game. Winner = Arizona

NFL Week 10 Predictions (part 1)

I usually don't do my picks until Thursday night or Friday. But, since this week sees the return of Thursday Night Football I will go ahead and give you my pick for tonight's game. Then, sometime tomorrow I will follow up with my picks for the rest of this weekend's NFL schedule.

1) Denver vs. Cleveland: There are going to be a lot of eyes watching this one. On paper the Broncos seem to have an advantage. Denver brings in the NFL's 3rd rated offense and 29th ranked defense against Cleveland's 28th ranked offense and 25th ranked defense. I'm going with the kid, though. I think Quinn will be more consistent than Anderson and put together some long drives that will help keep Denver's offense off the field. Winner = Cleveland

The Quinn Era Begins

For better, or worse.......

The Cleveland Browns announced today that Brady Quinn will replace Derek Anderson at the starting quarterback position for the upcoming game against the Denver Broncos on Thursday night. It's about time!

I'm not sure if Brady Quinn will be any better than Derek Anderson, but giving Quinn some playing time is the only way we'll ever find out. Now let's just hope that Chef (Romeo Crennel) will show the same kind of patience with Quinn that he has shown with Anderson. I say let the kid start the remaining games this season so that we can get an idea of just how good, or bad, he is.

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My Take On The Benching Of Anderson

Unlike Trent Dilfer, I do not think benching Derek Anderson was a bad idea. Dilfer seems to think that benching DA was a "knee jerk" reaction based on "public opinion." I tend to think it was decision that came far too late to save this season for the Browns, but it may have been in time to give the Browns management a fair idea of what they may have for next season.

Trent Dilfer needs to take a hard look at what Derek Anderson has actually accomplished in Cleveland this season (and for his career).

1) Anderson currently ranks 31st out of 35 significantly relevant QBs in the NFL with a QB rating of 68.9. The only QBs that rank below DA in this category are Tyler Thigpen (67.6), Ryan Fitzpatrick (66.6), Brian Griese (64.6), and Matt Hasselback (57.7).

2) Anderson ranks 33rd out of 35 QBs in completion percentage at 49.8 percent. The only two QBs who rank below DA in this category are Matt Hasselback (49.2) and JaMarcus Russell (48.6).

3) In 29 games for the Cleveland Browns, DA now has a career completion percentage of 54.7 with 43 touchdown passes and 34 interceptions. That all adds up to a career QB rating of 76.2.

To put Anderson's career numbers in perspective, I took the liberty of collecting some other former Cleveland Brown QB career statistics.

Kelly Holcomb: In 37 career games, Holcomb has a completion percentage of 63.3 with 39 touchdown passes and 38 interceptions and a QB rating of 79.2.

Charlie Frye: In 22 career games, Frye has a completion percentage of 62.0 with 16 touchdowns and 25 interceptions with a QB rating of 70.4.

Tim Couch: In 62 career games, Couch has a completion percentage of 59.8 with 64 touchdowns and 67 interceptions with a QB rating of 75.1.

Trent Dilfer: In 130 games, Dilfer has a completion percentage of 55.5 with 113 touchdowns and 129 interceptions with a QB rating of 70.2.

The one thing all four of the above quarterbacks have in common is they all SUCK. And if you compare their career statistics with those of Derek Anderson I think everybody will agree they are statistically similar. And yes, the statistics seem to indicate that Trent Dilfer may have been the worst of all five of the QBs mentioned. Trent does have a Super Bowl ring, but I think anybody who knows anything about football will tell you that the Ravens won that Championship in spite of Trent Dilfer, not because of him.

The Cleveland Browns decided to give Brady Quinn a chance to start this week because they need to know just how good (or bad) he really is so that they can begin planning for next season. Derek Anderson is a proven commodity. The Browns already know that Anderson will probably always have a sub 60 percent completion percentage. The Browns already know that Anderson is capable of doing great things on the field, and that he is capable of completely falling apart mentally at the drop of a hat. They already know that he has a rocket arm and that the only consistent thing about his performance is his inconsistency.

The only thing the Browns know about Brady Quinn is how he practices and that they gave up a lot to get him.

I don't know if Quinn is an NFL quarterback, but I do know that he was a four year starter at Notre Dame. And, the kid was phenomenal during his Junior and Senior seasons throwing for over 7,000 yards with a completion percentage of 63.3 with 69 touchdowns and only 14 interceptions during those two seasons.

Derek Anderson played his college ball at Oregon State. During his final two years of college he threw for over 7,500 yards with a completion percentage of 52.7 with 53 touchdowns and 41 interceptions. Anderson's college statistics are remarkably similar to what he has done in the NFL.

I think it is time to find out if Quinn's NFL statistics will be anywhere near what he accomplished in college. Time will tell. Let's just hope that Romeo will show the kid the same kind of patience that he afforded Anderson.

NFL Week 9 Predictions

OK. I went 9-5 last week and my overall for the season is now 66-50.

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1) NY Jets vs. Buffalo: This should be an exciting game. I'm going with the home team. Winner = Buffalo

2) Detroit vs. Chicago: The Lions are just a bad football team right now. Winner = Chicago

3) Jacksonville vs. Cincinnati: I don't understand how Marvin Lewis still has a job. Winner = Jacksonville

4) Baltimore vs. Cleveland: This game is a tough one for me to call. I think it will be a defensive struggle with several turnovers. Winner = Cleveland

5) Green Bay vs. Tennessee: The Titans didn't impress me last week against the Colts. I'm going out on a limb here and picking the Packers. Winner = Green Bay

6) Arizona vs. St. Louis: The Rams have been playing better football since Jim Haslett took over the helm, but I have to go with Kurt Warner and the Cards. Winner = Arizona

7) Houston vs. Minnesota: My gut tells me this will be an interesting game, but I am going with the home team. Winner = Minnesota

8) Tampa Bay vs. Kansas City: This is a no-brainer as far as I'm concerned. Winner = Tampa Bay

9) Miami vs. Denver: The Dolphins have surprised me a couple of times this season. Still, I have to go with the Broncos at home. Winner = Denver

10) Atlanta vs. Oakland: I think the Raiders will keep this one close, but the Falcons should take it. Winner = Atlanta

11) Dallas vs. NY Giants: The Cowboys won't even be competitive in this game with Brad Johnson under center. Winner = NY Giants

12) Philadelphia vs. Seattle: I think the Eagles will destroy the Seahawks. Winner = Philadelphia

13) New England vs. Indianapolis: The Colts' backs are against the wall. If Indy loses this game they will have no chance of making the playoffs. I think Peyton and company will circle the wagons. Winner = Indianapolis

14) Pittsburgh vs. Washington: I could honestly see this game going either way. The Steeler defense impressed me last week, though. Winner = Pittsburgh

NFL Week 8 Predictions

Man, it doesn't seem like there is any consistency in the NFL this year. Usually by Week 8 you have a pretty good idea who is for real and who is not. I dropped my Power Rankings a few weeks ago because it was starting to seem like there was the Tennessee Titans and then everybody else. I went 7-7 on my predictions again last week and I now sit at 57-45.
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1) Tampa Bay vs. Dallas: No Tony Romo equals no offense for Dallas. Winner = Tampa Bay

2) Washington vs. Detroit: The Redskins have been unpredictable, but the Lions have been very predictable. Winner = Washington

3) Buffalo vs. Miami: I like what Tony Sparano has done in Miami, but I think Buffalo should win this game easily. Winner = Buffalo

4) St. Louis vs. New England: This game actually intrigues me. Both teams have been playing above their heads lately and this could be an interesting game. Winner = New England

5) San Diego vs. New Orleans: Again, we have two teams that have been very unpredictable. My gut tells me to go with the Chargers. Winner = San Diego

6) Kansas City vs. NY Jets: I'm not drinking the Jets' Kool Aid any longer, but I still feel like Brett and the boys are better than the lowly Chiefs. Winner = NY Jets

7) Atlanta vs. Philadelphia: Jeez, again with the unpredictable teams playing each other this week. I'm taking the Eagles at home. Winner = Philadelphia

8) Oakland vs. Baltimore: This could be an interesting game. My gut tells me that the Raven defense is going to make Russell look even worse than he really is. Winner = Baltimore

9) Arizona vs. Carolina: Here we have two more teams that perform like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The difference in this game will probably be the performance of Kurt Warner. I'm taking the Panthers at home. Winner = Carolina

10) Cleveland vs. Jacksonville: The Browns' defense has been impressive in every facet of the game this year except in run defense. The Jaguars like to run the ball and they do it pretty well. Winner = Jacksonville

11) Cincinnati vs. Houston: History tells us that it is pretty difficult to go 0-16 on the season. But, I'm starting to think the Bungles have a real shot at making history. Winner = Houston

12) NY Giants vs. Pittsburgh: The Giants play their best when they can get pressure on the opposing quarterback, and the Steelers offensive line hasn't been very good this season. I'm going against the experts and picking the Giants. Winner = NY Giants

13) Seattle vs. San Francisco: The battle of the underachievers! I'm taking the 49ers at home. Winner = San Francisco

14) Indianapolis vs. Tennessee: The talent level in Indy has dropped off dramatically this year, and the Titans are starting to believe in themselves. The difference in this game will come down to coaching and Tennessee has a humongous advantage in that department. Winner = Tennessee

NFL Week 7 Predictions

Wow! Week 6 was another rough one for me as I barely broke even with a record of 7-7. That now puts me at a dismal 50-38 on the season.

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1) San Diego vs. Buffalo: It looks like the Chargers have it rolling now. Winner = San Diego

2) Minnesota vs. Chicago: The Bears are at home and I'm betting they are a little ticked off after last week's fiasco against the Falcons. Winner = Chicago

3) Pittsburgh vs. Cincinnati: The Bungles will keep stumbling along. Winner = Pittsburgh.

4) Tennessee vs. Kansas City: The Titans should take care of business. Winner = Tennessee

5) Dallas vs. St. Louis: The Rams shocked me last week with their victory over Washington, but I don't think the Rams are good enough to do it two weeks in a row. Winner = Dallas

6) Baltimore vs. Miami: The Dolphins are at home and I think they will find a way to take advantage of Baltimore's inept offense. Winner = Miami

7) San Francisco vs. NY Giants: We saw last week that the G-men have some weaknesses, but they are still too good for the 49ers. Winner = NY Giants

8) New Orleans vs. Carolina: I have decided that the Panthers are pretenders (again). Winner = New Orleans

9) Detroit vs. Houston: Just when I didn't think the Lions couldn't get any worse they went and traded Roy Williams to Dallas. Winner = Houston

10) NY Jets vs. Oakland: This game will probably be closer than what people think, but I can't pick against Brett Favre in this game. Winner = NY Jets

11) Indianapolis vs. Green Bay: I'm not sure what to think of Indy at this point in the season. The Colts looked like they found their fire last week so I am going to ride the momentum wave and pick them again. Winner = Indianapolis

12) Cleveland vs. Washington: I don't think Derek Anderson is capable of playing two good games in a row. Winner = Washington

13) Seattle vs. Tampa Bay: I have underestimated the Bucs all year and I am not going to do it again this week. Winner = Tampa Bay

14) Denver vs. New England: I just think the Broncos have too much on offense for the aging Patriot defense. Winner = Denver

NFL Week 6 Predictions

43-31 for the season so far. Now for the Week 6 predictions.
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1) Chicago vs. Atlanta: I believe the Bears' defense will be too much for the Falcons offense. Winner = Chicago

2) Baltimore vs. Indianapolis: I think this will be a low scoring game and that favors the Ravens. Winner = Baltimore

3) Detroit vs. Minnesota: I'm not really sure what kind of team Minnesota has, but I am pretty sure they are better than the Lions. Winner = Minnesota

4) Oakland vs. New Orleans: The Raiders are probably going to be fired up for the new coach, but the Saints are a better team and they are at home. Winner = New Orleans

5) Cincinnati vs. NY Jets: The Bengals couldn't even beat the Browns, and Carson Palmer isn't playing again this week. Winner = NY Jets

6) Carolina vs. Tampa Bay: I have underestimated the Bucs all year and I am going to pick against them again this week. Winner = Carolina

7) St. Louis vs. Washington: Jim Zorn and the Redskins have been impressive so far this season. The Rams have not. Winner = Washington

8) Miami vs. Houston: This is a tough one for me to call. I'm going with the home team. Winner = Houston

9) Jacksonville vs. Denver: I think this one is a toss up. Jacksonville is a better team than they have shown this season and I don't think Denver is as good as they appear. I'm going with the home team. Winner = Denver

10) Dallas vs. Arizona: I want to pick the Cardinals, but I just can't. Winner = Dallas

11) Philadelphia vs. San Francisco: The Eagles are really banged up this week. The 49ers aren't very good. Winner = Philadelphia

12) Green Bay vs. Seattle: The Seahawks are not the same team they used to be. Winner = Green Bay

13) New England vs. San Diego: The Chargers aren't a very good team right now, but neither are the Patriots. Winner = San Diego

14) NY Giants vs. Cleveland: The only chance the Browns have is if Derek Anderson gets hurt in warm-ups and is unable to play. Winner = NY Giants

Week 5 Predictions

I went 8-5 last week, but I strongly feel I would have gone 9-4 if Carson Palmer had played for Cincinnati. I am now 35-25 on the season. Now for my Week 5 Predictions:

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1) Kansas City vs. Carolina: The Chiefs looked much improved last week, but I'm still going with the Panthers. Winner = Carolina

2) Chicago vs. Detroit: Don't look now, but the Bears are starting to look like a contender in the NFC North. Winner = Chicago

3) Atlanta vs. Green Bay: Aaron Rodgers is hurt, but it looks like he should play. Winner = Green Bay

4) San Diego vs. Miami: San Diego should win this game, but don't be surprised if the Dolphins make a game of it coming of their bye. Winner = San Diego

5) Seattle vs. NY Giants: The Seahawks are starting to get healthy, but I look for the G-Men to look refreshed after their bye week. Winner = NY Giants

6) Washington vs. Philadelphia: This game could be a tough one for the Eagles, but I'm taking Philly at home. Winner = Philadelphia

7) Tennessee vs. Baltimore: This will be a smash mouth football game that will tell us a lot about the Titans. Winner = Tennessee

8) Indianapolis vs. Houston: The Colts' offensive line is starting to get healthy. It looks like Ugoh and Pollak will return this week. Winner = Indianapolis

9) Tampa Bay vs. Denver: I lost a lot of confidence in Denver last week. My head tells me to go with the Bucs, but my gut tells me to take the Broncos. Winner = Denver

10) Buffalo vs. Arizona: The Cards are turning the ball over too much for my taste. Winner = Buffalo

11) New England vs. San Fransisco: The Patriots had a week off to think about their embarrassing loss. Winner = New England

12) Cincinnati vs. Dallas: This is a no-brainer. Winner = Dallas

13) Pittsburgh vs. Jacksonville: The Steelers are banged up and the Jags are starting to find their mojo. Winner = Jacksonville

14) Minnesota vs. New Orleans: The Vikings aren't a horrible team, but I have to go with the Saints at home. Winner = New Orleans

15) Cleveland Browns: The Browns don't play a game this week, but I have a feeling they will find some way to lose to themselves in practice during their bye week. Their pathetic win last week against a "Carson Palmer-less" Bengals team was probably the worst thing that has happened to the Browns since they signed Derek Anderson to that huge contract. Now it looks like Anderson will hold on to the starting QB job for the foreseeable future. I just don't know how many more 10-25 for 125 yards with 3 interceptions and 1 touchdown games I can stomach.

NFL Week 4 Predictions

I'm 27-20 on my picks after the first three weeks of the season. Its not too bad, but its not real good either. Let's see if I can improve on my record.
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1) Cleveland vs Cincinnati: The Great American Suck-Off! This is a tough one to call because Derek Anderson is starting but may not finish the game. If Brady Quinn comes in early the Browns may have a chance. Since Romeo is the Browns' coach I am going to guess that Quinn doesn't come in soon enough or maybe not at all. Winner = Cincinnati

2) Minnesota vs Tennessee: I think the Titan defense will be too much for the Vikings. Winner = Tennessee

3) Denver vs Kansas City: The Broncos are gonna score a lot of points and the Chiefs will not. Winner = Denver

4) San Francisco vs New Orleans: I'm going with the Saints even without Shockey. Winner = New Orleans

5) Arizona vs NY Jets: This one has me scratching my head. The Cards may be better than I thought, and the Jets may be worse than I thought. I'm going with the home team. Winner = NY Jets

6) Green Bay vs Tampa Bay: I just think the Packers are a better team. Winner = Green Bay

7) Atlanta vs Carolina: The Panthers should win this one easily. Winner = Carolina

8) Houston vs Jacksonville: The Jags have their swagger back. Winner = Jacksonville

9) San Diego vs Oakland: This won't even be close. Winner = San Diego

10) Buffalo vs St. Louis: The Rams may go 0-16. Winner = Buffalo

11) Washington vs Dallas: I think the Redskins will make a game of this, but Washington just doesn't have enough. Winner = Dallas

12) Philadelphia vs Chicago: The Eagles should blow Chicago off the field. Winner = Philadelphia

13) Baltimore vs Pittsburgh: Big Ben will have a long day without Willie Parker, but in the end I think the Steelers will pull out a low scoring affair. Winner = Pittsburgh

9/25/08: My Power Rankings

1) Dallas Cowboys: They're winning, but I'm still a little suspicious of their defense.

2) NY Giants: Everybody is entitled to a bad game every once in awhile. Luckily for the G-Men they were playing against the Bungles.

3) Philadelphia Eagles: Philly beat a pretty good Steeler team and played the Cowboys very tough in Dallas.

4) Pittsburgh Steelers: I know they lost last weekend, but perhaps Philly is just that good.

5) Tennessee Titans: We won't find out what they really have until Week 8 when they play the Colts. But, the Titans definitely look better with Collins under center.

6) Denver Broncos: They can score some points.

7) Buffalo Bills: Narrowly escaping with a win against the Raiders didn't impress me much.

8) Green Bay Packers: They lost to Dallas, but they still look like a playoff team to me.

9) San Diego Chargers: Could it be?

10) Indianapolis Colts: Poor officiating cost the Colts the game against Jacksonville, otherwise they would be 2-1 right now heading in to their Bye Week.

The Cleveland Clowns

Did anybody else read the great AP story about the Browns/Ravens game? The first sentence of the story actually made me laugh out loud, "The Baltimore Ravens were struggling to score, and then Derek Anderson came to the rescue.
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How much longer is Romeo Crennel going to stick with Anderson? After 3 games, Derek Anderson's stat line for the season reads like this:

43 completions in 93 attempts with 2 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. Oh yeah, it also reads that he has zero wins and three losses.
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DA now has a whopping 46% completion percentage through three games and he looks absolutely putrid on the field. The NFL's QB ratings after week 3 haven't come out yet, but I think it is safe to say that Anderson will rank near the bottom in every significant category once they do. Say what you want about Charlie Frye, but even Charlie completed over 62% of his passes in the 21 games he played for the Browns.

And don't give me any of that crap about the Browns facing tough defenses in their first three games. Matt Schaub completed 25-33 for 202 yards against the Steelers in Week 1 and Donovan McNabb completed 24-35 for 196 yards against Pittsburgh in Week 3. Donovan McNabb also went 25-37 for 281 yards against Dallas in Week 2. As I am writing this I'm watching Aaron Rodgers put up some decent numbers against Dallas in the Sunday night game. Sure, the Packers are losing, but Rodgers is currently 10-17 for 153 yards.

Anderson has now played in 24 games for the Browns and sits at a career completion percentage of a measly 55%. And, the argument can be made that Anderson has had a much better receiving corps (and team) to work with than Charlie ever had.
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I think it is time we get to see what Brady Quinn can do. Lord knows he can't possibly do any worse than what Derek Anderson has done so far this season. Of course, Quinn seeing any real playing time would mean that Romeo Crennel would have to make an actual coaching decision. And, based on Romeo's "decision making" over the past couple of season's I'm guessing that we probably won't be seeing Brady Quinn until it is entirely too late.

Forget about Derek Anderson, maybe somebody needs to fire Romeo Crennel. I don't know about you, but I am getting sick and tired of the Cleveland Clowns.
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UPDATE

I've gotten two emails this morning from Cleveland fans trying to tell me that DA is struggling because his receivers are dropping passes that they should be catching. Are you FU$@ING kidding me?

The reason the receivers aren't making an extreme effort to catch the ball this season is because they are scared to death that they are going to get their heads taken off when they try to make the circus catches that are required to catch a pass from Derek Anderson. The receivers made those types of catches last year, but I am guessing they are starting to get a little tired of Anderson throwing them balls that leave them totally exposed over the middle with Ray Lewis running at them with a full head of steam. That pass to Winslow yesterday was a prime example of what I am talking about. Anderson should have thrown that ball low and slightly behind Winslow so that K2 had to go to the ground to catch it. That way Winslow wouldn't have been de-cleated by a 250 pound freight train. How much longer do you honestly think Winslow is going to keep trying to catch those balls before he just shuts it down like Edwards?

Give me a break, people. Anderson is the same QB he has always been. He's not getting worse. He has always been this bad. He will continue to be this bad as long as Romeo keeps playing him. Its time for a change, for better or worse.

NFL Week 3 Predictions

I don't think there is any way I can do worse than I did last week, so here goes.
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1) Kansas City vs. Atlanta: This is a tough one to call. Winner = Atlanta

2) Oakland vs. Buffalo: I think the Bills should win this one fairly easily. Winner = Buffalo

3) Tampa Bay vs. Chicago: The Bears have surprised me with their toughness so far this season. Winner = Chicago

4) Houston vs. Tennessee: Anything can happen in the AFC South, but I think the Titans have too much for the Texans. Winner = Tennessee

5) Carolina vs. Minnesota: The Vikings have played hard nosed football in their first two games but I don't think the upgrade at QB will be enough to help them against the Panthers. Winner = Carolina

6) Miami vs. New England: No contest. Winner = New England

7) Cincinnati vs. NY Giants: That sound you hear off in the distance is the moving truck pulling up in front of Marvin Lewis' house. Winner = NY Giants

8) Arizona vs. Washington: My head is telling me to go with the Redskins, but my gut tells me the Cards are gonna take it. Winner = Arizona

9) Detroit vs. San Francisco: This one is a toss up. I'm going with the home team. Winner = San Francisco

10) St. Louis vs. Seattle: Another tough one to call. Winner = Seattle

11) New Orleans vs. Denver: My crystal ball tells me the Broncos are going to score a lot of points. Winner = Denver

12) Pittsburgh vs. Philadelphia: Another tough one to call. When I think it is close, I always go with the home team. Winner = Philadelphia

13) Jacksonville vs. Indianapolis: The better defense wins the game between two teams struggling with injuries on offense. Winner = Jacksonville

14) Cleveland vs. Baltimore: The last I checked Derek Anderson was still listed as the starting QB for Cleveland. Winner = Baltimore

15) Dallas vs. Green Bay: The game of the week as far as I'm concerned. I'm going out on a limb. Winner = Green Bay

16) NY Jets vs San Diego: I think the Jets will make a game of this, but the Chargers are going to play pissed off after last week's debacle. Winner = San Diego

Kornheiser Comment On MNF

Did Tony Kornheiser step over the line on MNF with his not so funny comment about our friends south of the border? Check out what he said here.

I must admit that I totally missed the comment during the broadcast. I didn't miss the comment because I wasn't paying attention. I missed it because I had the TV on mute. I have been muting all the MNF games since Tony was added to the cast. I can't stand the guy and I don't think he is funny at all. I want to watch the football games and not be bothered by some idiot who knows nothing about the game jabbering away non-stop about worthless crap that I care nothing about.

Week 2 Wrap Up & Power Rankings

Wow!!! I am now officially in last place in our "pick 'em" tournament. This week was just awful for me. I was embarrassed when I went 9-7 in Week 1, but I actually went sub .500 for Week 2. Ouch!!
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Before I get to my power rankings I have a few random thoughts I would like to share.

1) I am so glad I'm not a San Diego Charger fan. Talk about getting screwed by the referees. Not only did the call probably cost the Chargers the game, it also put them 2 games behind Denver in the AFC West standings. And, it may have cost them any chance they had at a home playoff game this season. But, at least Ed was a big enough man to admit he made a mistake. I know that doesn't make up for the call, but I honestly can't remember the last time a referee screwed up this bad and admitted he was wrong.

2) The Colts offensive line looks absolutely pathetic. All the "so called experts" have been blaming Peyton Manning for the Colts offensive struggles, but the problem is clearly with the offensive line. Peyton simply doesn't have the time he needs to make the throws. The fact that the Colts rank dead last in the NFL in rushing offense should be a clue that the offensive line is to blame for the offensive problems. Manning is actually performing remarkably well compared to the rest of the Indianapolis offense. Have I mentioned lately that I think Ryan Diem is the worst offensive tackle in football?

3) Romeo Crennel is his own worst enemy. I know the Browns have all kinds of injuries on offense and defense. I know the Browns have faced arguably the two best teams in the NFL to start the season. But, Romeo's continued clock mismanagement and ridiculous decision making has me completely baffled. I can't help but wonder what a "good" coach might be able to accomplish with all that talent up in Cleveland.

4) Speaking of the Browns, how much longer is Romeo going to stick with Derek Anderson? Sure, DA shows flashes of competence now and then. But, his continued inconsistency, inaccuracy, and poor decision making is driving me freaking nuts! Brady Quinn might not be any better, but we'll never know for sure if he doesn't get to see any playing time.

5) 21 carries for 164 yards and a touchdown in Week 2. I told you before the season started that Darren McFadden was a guy to watch.
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Week 2 Power Rankings


1) NY Giants: They are playing like the defending Super Bowl Champs.

2) Dallas Cowboys: The offense looks good, but the defense looks a little shaky.

3) Green Bay Packers: I know they've only beat the Vikings and the Lions, but they looked damn good doing it.

4) Pittsburgh Steelers: Ho Hum, the Steelers keep rolling along. Their win over the Browns wasn't impressive, but the weather has a way of leveling the playing field.

5) Denver Broncos: They probably didn't deserve to beat the Chargers, but they did. And that's all that matters in the end.

6) Philadelphia Eagles: Donovan is back, but the defense is going to have to do better.

7) New England Patriots: Brady Schmady! It is certainly starting to look like even Jim Sorgi could step in and run that offense efficiently. A good defense probably has something to do with it too.

8) Buffalo Bills: On paper, their two wins over Seattle and Jacksonville look pretty good. But, I can't help wondering if maybe they just didn't catch the 'Hawks and the Jags at the right time.

9) Carolina Panthers: They're 2-0, but I'm still not convinced they are a contender. I thought they should have beaten the Bears a little more convincingly.

10) Tennessee Titans: The defense is tough and they recently upgraded at the quarterback position.

NFL Week 2 Predictions

Well, I didn't do too well with my predictions for Week 1. I went 9-7 last week and I hope I didn't cause anybody to lose any money because of my apparent ignorance. Let's see if I can do better this week.
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Tennessee vs. Cincinnati: I think the Bengals will play better this week but I really like the Titan defense. Kerry Collins will be playing for an injured Vince Young which may actually help the Titan offense as well. Winner = Titans

Green Bay vs. Detroit: I look for Aaron Rodgers to have a huge game. The Lions defense looked awfully bad against Atlanta. Winner = Green Bay

Oakland vs. Kansas City: This is a tough one for me to call. Oakland isn't a very good football team, but KC is playing without Brodie Croyle. I think Damon Huard has enough to win this game for KC. Winner = Kansas City

NY Giants vs. St. Louis: Not even a contest. Winner = NY Giants

Indianapolis vs. Minnesota: It pains me to say this, but I think the Colts defense isn't good enough to win this game. Winner = Minnesota

New Orleans vs. Washington: I think this is a close game because of the Redskin defense and Colston being out for New Orleans. Ultimately, I think Washington doesn't have enough on offense. Winner = New Orleans

Chicago vs. Carolina: Chicago looked good against the Colts, but Carolina looked good against San Diego. Winner = Carolina

Buffalo vs. Jacksonville: The game is in Jacksonville and I don't think the Jag offense will have two bad games in a row. Winner = Jacksonville

San Francisco vs. Seattle: The Seahawks are a better team than they showed in Week 1. The 49ers are not. Winner = Seattle

Atlanta vs Tampa Bay: If Jeff Garcia was playing I would feel better about the Bucs chances. But, Gruden says Brian Griese will start so I am going with the Falcons in a low scoring game. Winner = Atlanta

New England vs. NY Jets: This another tough one for me to call. I figure Mangini has a game plan for the Pats, but I think the Pats defense will get a few turnovers from Favre. I'm going with the Jets because they are at home. Winner = NY Jets

Miami vs Arizona: This is another tough one to call. Miami isn't as bad as people think. I'm going out on a limb here and picking the Dolphins only because I think they will get pressure on Warner and we all know that Kurt plays poorly if he gets pressured. Winner = Miami

San Diego vs Denver: The Chargers are banged up on both sides of the ball and I'm just not sure the San Diego defense is good enough without Merriman. I'll probably miss this one but I am going with Denver at home. Winner = Denver

Baltimore vs. Houston: I look for Matt Schaub to have a long day. This one will be low scoring just like the Ravens like it. Winner = Ravens

Piitsburgh vs. Cleveland: I look for Derek Anderson to turn in another pitiful performance. Willie Parker will have a huge day and the Steelers win this one without breaking a sweat. Winner = Pittsburgh

Philadelphia vs. Dallas: The Cowboys are not the Rams. Winner = Dallas

My Week 1 NFL Power Rankings

I know it is ridiculous to put up power rankings after one week, but its my blog and I will do it anyway. I'm sure it will change dramatically next week.

1) Dallas Cowboys: They looked good against Cleveland and I can't wait to see how they do against Philadelphia next week and then Green Bay the week after.

2) Pittsburgh Steelers: I know they only played the Texans, but it was still impressive.

3) New York Giants: Hey, they're the defending Super Bowl Champs. I look for the Giants to easily walk through their next 6 games.

4) Green Bay Packers: The Vikings played them tough but the Packers held serve.

5) Carolina Panthers: They went into San Diego and beat the Chargers. That has to be worth something.

6) San Diego Chargers: The Chargers were playing hurt and still almost won the game. I look for San Diego to get better as the season progresses and they start getting healthy.

7) Philadelphia Eagles: I know they were playing the Rams, but Donovan looked like Donovan again. If McNabb returns to Pro Bowl form the Eagles will be a contender.

8) New England Patriots: I know Tom Brady is lost for the season, but Matt Cassell didn't look that bad. The Pats have enough talent without Brady to win 10 games this season.

9) New York Jets: Their next 2 games are against the Patriots and then the Chargers. I guess we'll find out soon enough just how good they are with Brett Favre under center.

10) Buffalo Bills: They destroyed the Seahawks so I felt obligated to put them in my top ten. Next week's game against Jacksonville won't be so easy.