I think Kolb should start, let him get more work in. He should only improve his game. I honestly think he will have a decent future (either with Philly or elsewhere). I think having the bye week 4 pretty much made the decision easier for the Eagles as to who will be the QB. Vick will be back for his first game, so he is definitely going to get his fair share of snaps and Kolb should command the rest. KC is underrated like you said and Haley has them staying competitive. Will they beat the Eagles? I don't think so, but I definitely think they will stay in there till the end. Eagles win with Kolb against KC, something along the lines of 31-17.
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NFL Thread - 2009-10
- Thread starter Mighty NorCal
- Start date
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- Not open for further replies.
Mario has really surprised me. I honestly didn't think he would garner this much playing time and be so good this early on. I've always felt Hixon was overrated and wasn't as good as many made him out to be. I think Steve Smith is a good WR, a great possession WR. I felt that when the Giants drafted him they made a smart move. I for one didn't think the hate on the Giants WR was necessary. I think the Giants would have been good no matter who the WR were. If I'm not mistaken Mannigham is 3rd in the league in receiving yards and Steve Smith is tied with Santonio Holmes for 1st in the league in yards. Both are really playing some good ball. I'm pretty confident Smith will keep it up and I'd like to see if Manningham keeps it up or if he is a first couple game fluke like some players have been in the past.
Today on Mike and Mike, they talked about how outstanding the Saints offense is, but also remarked that there's nothing special about them. They're simply more talented than everyone else. Is this true?
Drew Brees can make any throw on the field, and is clearly in the top 3 for QBs active right now. He's got a solid group of guys to throw to too. Colston is among the most underrated receivers in the game, and Henderson and Meachem are solid in their roles. Shockey has been serviceable, while not being a pain in the ass, and Bush is a viable threat out of the backfield.
Which leads me to the running game. Michael Bell has been impressive, and has run between the tackles as well as he has jumped to the outside. Thomas is probably their best all-around back, but is more of a speed option and receiving threat, leaving him to playing mostly 4rd downs. Bush is...Well, I don't know. Sometimes he's great running the ball, and sometimes he's not. He can be a good receiver, but he also drops some easy catches.
The Saints also have one of the best fullbacks in the game, Heath Evans. He can block better than probably any other FB, and can make a few catches, and pound the ball on the goal line. The offensive line has some holes, but Brees gets rid of the ball fast enough that this weakness hasn't really been shown.
I have to agree that they're arguably the best offense in the game, but I also have to agree they're not "special". They're not like the Rams of old, chucking the ball 40 yards downfield every play, and they don't have the best running game, just a good one.
What do you think?
Drew Brees can make any throw on the field, and is clearly in the top 3 for QBs active right now. He's got a solid group of guys to throw to too. Colston is among the most underrated receivers in the game, and Henderson and Meachem are solid in their roles. Shockey has been serviceable, while not being a pain in the ass, and Bush is a viable threat out of the backfield.
Which leads me to the running game. Michael Bell has been impressive, and has run between the tackles as well as he has jumped to the outside. Thomas is probably their best all-around back, but is more of a speed option and receiving threat, leaving him to playing mostly 4rd downs. Bush is...Well, I don't know. Sometimes he's great running the ball, and sometimes he's not. He can be a good receiver, but he also drops some easy catches.
The Saints also have one of the best fullbacks in the game, Heath Evans. He can block better than probably any other FB, and can make a few catches, and pound the ball on the goal line. The offensive line has some holes, but Brees gets rid of the ball fast enough that this weakness hasn't really been shown.
I have to agree that they're arguably the best offense in the game, but I also have to agree they're not "special". They're not like the Rams of old, chucking the ball 40 yards downfield every play, and they don't have the best running game, just a good one.
What do you think?
The Raiders aren't gonna continue to win games if Russell is going 7-20 something. He needs to continue to improve. He needs to bounce back from a poor performance. The Raiders lost arguably their best OLineman in Robert Gallery to a broken leg. If they can continue to build around the run game and let Russell manage the game they should win games. I don't see them making the playoffs, but they definitely won't be the laughing stock of the league any more. I see somewhere between 7-9 wins for Oaktown this season.
The Giants can't have a bad draft. I think it's against their religion. Smith was a great pick-up. As far as Manningham not panning out, why wouldn't he? He was a 1st round talent that slipped because some teams thought he smoked pot in college. Throw in Nicks (also a 1st round pick), and Smith (2nd round pick), and you have 3 WRs picked on the first day of the draft. Barden also fell to them in the 4th round, and many people thought he'd go as early as the 2nd round because of his height and gamebreaking ability.
I'm a big fan of the Saints and I've always been a supporter of Drew Brees. The kid right now is the best QB in the league. He makes all the throws and has been good when getting pressured. This offense can easily put up 40 points a game. I'm not saying they will, but they definitely have that kind of potential. Like you said Colston is extremely underrated as a WR. Henderson is a viable deep threat and Meachum has potential to be a good slot guy. And lets not forget they have Lance Moore, who had a fantastic year last year in the absence of Colston. They have a slew of good backs in Bush, Bell, Thomas, and Evans. Shockey is playing good ball right now and the defense isn't anywhere near as bad as they have been. I can see this Saints team make a good run in the NFC. I definitely have them as one of the best teams in the NFC. Behind the Giants. And I'd say they are equal to Atlanta and Minnesota.
I never said Manningham wasn't gonna pan out, I just didn't see him playing this good right now. I just didn't see him getting this much playing time right away. I had Nicks, Smith, and Hixon over him. And Nicks is injured and Hixon hasn't been playing great (and I think he is hurt now also), Manningham has stepped in and has earned himself the other WR spot next to Smith.
I never said Manningham wasn't gonna pan out, I just didn't see him playing this good right now. I just didn't see him getting this much playing time right away. I had Nicks, Smith, and Hixon over him. And Nicks is injured and Hixon hasn't been playing great (and I think he is hurt now also), Manningham has stepped in and has earned himself the other WR spot next to Smith.
Hixon has a strained hamstring. He'll probably get held off the field for special teams, but he'll definitely get some time on offense. I wouldn't expect him to be there for more than 10 plays though, maybe getting thrown to 2 or 3 times. He'll be a bigger factor in the future, just not this week. Maybe Week 5 against the Raiders, or 6 against the Saints.
In my last post, I forgot to include Moss, who is also a 2nd round pick. He's not going to be one of our top 3 guys, but he can work well in the role Tyree had. Do some returns, play some special teams, and make a catch or two a game. He has the speed and route running abilities to be a big play threat if he can get his hands on the same level as his feet.
Week 1, Donovan McNabb went down with a fractured rib, and missed this week, and will miss next week. Well, yesterday, Hasselbeck went down with the same injury, and has an injury history as long as McNabb's. Last year he was hurt, and the team struggled to a 4-12 record. There were more than a few people claiming that they would return to glory this year, with some people predicting a division crown, as well as possibly a run in the playoffs.
If he misses 2 games, they can rebound. They're in a weak enough division that 2 games is not insurmountable. If he misses more than that, and it goes deep into the season, they're done. No way that Seneca Wallace can lead them to the playoffs, and they'll be lucky to win 6 games. It's still early though. I'm going to stick with the hope that he returns, and they win 8 or 9 games.
If he misses 2 games, they can rebound. They're in a weak enough division that 2 games is not insurmountable. If he misses more than that, and it goes deep into the season, they're done. No way that Seneca Wallace can lead them to the playoffs, and they'll be lucky to win 6 games. It's still early though. I'm going to stick with the hope that he returns, and they win 8 or 9 games.
The 'Hawks may be giving this game to Wallace, but if Hasselbeck's injury is more serious, and it probably isn't, they have other options. In the 6th Rd of the draft they drafted the QB from Rutgers, Mike Teel. He put up some great numbers there, and ran an offense that's pretty close to pro-style, so he might not have as bad a learning curve as some other late round picks.
I'm not saying throw him in there now. There's no reason to kill his career to replace the starter for 2 games. But, what harm can be done by throwing him in there if Hasselbeck misses 6 or more games? He'll get valuable experience, and prepare himself for the future, which won't be until after Hasselbeck retires.
I'm not saying throw him in there now. There's no reason to kill his career to replace the starter for 2 games. But, what harm can be done by throwing him in there if Hasselbeck misses 6 or more games? He'll get valuable experience, and prepare himself for the future, which won't be until after Hasselbeck retires.
TwistofRKO
The Legend Killer himself
I don't have to put that much reason behind it, because it's just what's going to go down.
McNabb returns = Garcia's departure
Garcia said it upon his return to Philly that he was there to help the team out, where he has a lot of good friends. I love the guy, but that's the fact. Kevin Kolb was a 2nd round draft pick who just threw for 391 yards in his first start, he's staying. Michael Vick was just signed, they bit a bullet and won't take that for nothing. They have a lot invested in those two, while Garcia was just an insurance policy until Donovan was 100%.
That's not speculation, that's simply what it is.
McNabb returns = Garcia's departure
Garcia said it upon his return to Philly that he was there to help the team out, where he has a lot of good friends. I love the guy, but that's the fact. Kevin Kolb was a 2nd round draft pick who just threw for 391 yards in his first start, he's staying. Michael Vick was just signed, they bit a bullet and won't take that for nothing. They have a lot invested in those two, while Garcia was just an insurance policy until Donovan was 100%.
That's not speculation, that's simply what it is.
I figured I'd make this thread and see what everyone's opinions were on the best teams 1-32. Right now here is what my ranks would look like.
1. New York Giants (2-0)
-I think they are the best team in football right now. The WR are shining and Eli is earning that paycheck. The defense is stout as usual and the ST is pretty darn good as well. They are the most complete team.
2. Baltimore Ravens (2-0)
-The 2nd most complete team in football. The Ravens always have a good defense and Joe Flacco doesn't seem like he will suffer a sophomore slump. He is really coming to his own and adding a passing attack to the Raven's offense. They have a stout run game in Rice, McGahee, and McClain as well.
3. Indianapolis Colts (2-0)
-Like always the Colts offense is one of the best in football. And when you can win a game when only holding the ball for 15 mins is pretty darn impressive. Manning is the 2nd best QB in football (behind Brees) and the WR is still decent. Defense should get better over the course of the year with Bob Sanders returning and the maturing of their young CB.
4. Atlanta Falcons (2-0)
-Just like Joe Flacco, Ryan is another shining sophomore. He is really in sync with new target Tony G and the defense is really playing well. If the defense continues its stellar play and the offense stays hot, Atlanta could be a scary team come playoff time.
5. New Orleans Saints (2-0)
-New Orleans is the home of the scariest and best offense in the NFL and also the MVP as of right now (yes it is early). But Brees is wheeling and dealing and I'm not sure if a defense will be able to stop the Saints and I'm not sure many offenses can keep with them. The defense is shaky, but it is definitely a major improvement over last season. Darren Sharper still has his playmaking abilities and has been one of the key factors in the defenses turnaround. Plus they have a top 10 run defense.
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1)
-They really need to find a running game and quick. If they don't, I can't imagine the offense doing so well. Big Ben will only take them so far. I'm sure the Steelers fans will come in here and say they can go without a run game, but their run game is bad and needs fixing. Defense is still good and I think they'll last without Polamalu.
7. Minnesota Vikings (2-0)
-My team! The Vikes have the best RB in football and an aging, but what seems to be reliable QB. The Vikes have finished strong in each of their two games, but have started shaky, trailing at halftime in both games to the Browns and Lions. I expect that once the chemistry comes with Favre and the WR/TE's that will change. The defense is playing good ball and ST, still shaky, but better than last season.
8. Philadelphia Eagles (1-1)
-When McNabb gets back they'll be alright and stay a top 10 team throughout the year. Yes their defense was torched by NO, but what defense hasn't been. The Eagles offense is dangerous when McNabb is in, with Jackson, BWest, Celek (very underrated TE), McCoy, Curtis, Maclin, etc... If they stay healthy, they could be a scary contender at the end.
9. New York Jets (2-0)
-What may be the surprise team of the year thus far. Rex Ryan has this team balling and Mark Sanchez is playing some good ball. The defense has been the key to their success. Revis right now is arguably the best CB in football. Lets not forget Dustin Keller, who is really coming into his own as an NFL TE. I'm not sold completely on this team. They could be a fluke, but they definitely can't be counted out. They could be this years Atlanta Falcons.
10. San Diego Chargers (1-1)
-They had a shaky week 1 win against the Raiders and a tough defeat to Baltimore week 2. Rivers is one of the best QB in football and they have a stellar run tandem in LT and Sproles. Add in Gates and Vincent Jackson, who is really turning into a big game WR. Defense needs to step it up and if they do the Bolts will be ok and should make the playoffs.
11. New England Patriots (1-1)
-If McKelvin wouldn't have fumbled, this team could be 0-2. They really need to find some sort of balance on the offensive side. Brady has thrown the ball something like 100 times. They need to get some carries for their loads of RB. Maybe go to a 65/35 pass/run. The defense is playing decent and once Mayo gets back they should get better. Their offense can still run with anyone on most days and if they find that balance and Brady gets back to form, they should move up.
12. San Francisco 49ers (2-0)
-How bout them Niners. Mike Singeltary has this team playing and playing hard. Frank Gore is one of the most underrated backs in the league and Shaun Hill is a good game manager under center. The Crabtree crap doesn't seem to be hindering their play out all. Honestly they don't really need the kid, as Bruce and Davis are stepping up and they can rely on Gore. And lets not forget the defense. Patrick Willis, one of the best LB in the game and DE Justin Smith, underrated in his own right.
13. Tennessee Titans (0-2)
-You probably think I'm a little crazy for having an 0-2 team this high. But the Titans are a really good team. Lets not forget the Giants (when the won the SB) started 0-2. And this Titans team reminds me of that Giants team. A decent QB, not so great WR, a great running game, and an awesome defense full of rotation. I'm not saying they will win the SB, but they are definitely the best 0-2 team out there.
14. Green Bay Packers (1-1)
-The Bengals exploited the Packers weak spot, their O-Line (yes I know Clifton was hurt). If the line can start to gel and protect Rodgers they should be alright. The 3-4 defense has looked good thus far and the players seem to be adjusting well to it. The offense is there with Rodgers, Jennings, Driver, Grant, etc... The defense is there as well. If they can put it all together, the Pack could make some noise
15. Chicago Bears (1-1)
-Who would have thought the Bears would have defeated the Steelers after that poor performance against GB. Well they did. Cutler forgot about that poor game and worried about defeating Pit. Now if they can get Matt Forte going, they should be in good shape. Not having Urlacher is gonna hurt, but the defense has plenty of good players to lessen the pain of his absence.
16. Houston Texans (1-1)
-Right now I'm not sure what the identity of this team is. They shined offensively week 2 and had a hell of a game against Tennessee. But week 1, they didn't look so good. The offense has the potential to be one of the best in the league with Schaub, Andre, Walter, Daniels, and Slaton. But the defense needs to step it up. They got one of the best ends in Mario Williams and a very good LB in Demeco Ryans. Plus some other good unheralded players. The Texans are like the Bengals of a few years ago. A team that is praised as getting ready to reach the top, but haven't yet. I haven't bought into the hype yet, as I think they are nothing more than a 9-7 team.
17. Arizona Cardinals (1-1)
-The defending Super Bowl losers. Who knows if they'll be effected by that curse. I think they are anywhere from a 10 win to a 7 win team. The offense is obviously there. They showed that against the Jags week 2. They struggled against the Niners, but I don't think that is that big a deal. The weapons on offense are insane, and they have the ability to improve their rushing game with Hightower and Beanie. The defense however is lackluster. They have some stellar players on defense, but it seems they can't put it together. The Cardinals, to me are the NFC version of the Houston Texans.
18. Dallas Cowboys (1-1)
-The Boys struggled with a weak Bucs team and hung in there with a stellar Giants team. If the Boys wanna do anything, Romo needs to play like he did against the Bucs a majority of the season. And that defense really needs to step it up, especially the secondary. The defense has been torched by the passing game and they aren't getting the pressure they got last year. If the defense can be middle of the road and Romo can be consistent, Dallas is a borderline playoff team. If they can't, they are just a middle of the road team.
19. Buffalo Bills (1-1)
-This team is a McKelvin fumble away from being 2-0. They are playing decent football. Pretty balanced in offense and defense. I expect TO to get involved more and when Lynch comes back (though I think Fred Jackson is a stellar back as well). The team has the offensive weapons to do damage and a pretty decent defense to boot.
20. Denver Broncos (2-0)
-Yes, they are 2-0. But I haven't really been impressed with them. I don't think they are gonna make the playoffs, but they are definitely doing better than I expected them to do. I had them winning at most 4 games. Now I can see them winning at most 9 games. Orton wins games, he is the definition of a game manager. They are overachieving right now in my mind and I can't see them doing much damage throughout the season.
21. Miami Dolphins (0-2)
-They are definitely better than 0-2. And if I'm not mistaken they started 0-2 last season. I don't think they are a playoff team, but they are definitely a team to reckon with. The masters of the wildcat. This team can run the rock and they can pass as well. A decent defense, with a good set of pass rushers in Taylor and Porter. Don't sleep on the Phins, they can beat you.
22. Cincinnati Bengals (1-1)
-The Bengals are a team I said could surprise some people this season. I'll catch a lot of hate for this, but I think they could upset the Steelers this Sunday. If they could just put everything together and stay healthy the Bengals could be a playoff contender. It is doubtful that they will be, but stranger things have happened.
23. Washington Redskins (1-1)
-The Redskins spend all the money in the world, but never seem to make it show on the field. Campbell doesn't seem to be the QB to lead the team. I for one am a big Campbell fan. The team has a great RB in Portis, one of the best DT in football in Big Al and one of the best young S in Landry. I think they could have a bright future if they can put it all together.
24. Seattle Seahawks (1-1)
-With Hasselbeck out, they could drop. If he is in, I think they will hover around and be a potential playoff team. They have a deep WR corp and a up and coming TE in Carlson. Their star defensive player is banged up in Marcus Trufant, but they have some other guys in Kerney, Tatupu, and others. The key to their season is how injured Hasselbeck is and how soon he comes back.
25. Carolina Panthers (0-2)
-They have fallen on some rough times. Delhomme struggled BIG TIME week 1 and he was decent week 2. They need to get back to running the ball. If they wanna win, that is the key. Run to open up the pass. The defense is pretty solid and can get them by.
26. Oakland Raiders (1-1)
-Man, if Russell plays like he did week 2, this team isn't gonna win many games. Russell completed something like 7 passes out of 30 something. This team lost one of their key lineman in Robert Gallery. They have a good run trio in DMC, Bush, and Fargas. They have a good defense and great CB in Asomugha and Johnson. Richard Seymour has been money for them and a key part to that defense. If Russell plays like he did week 1, they could finish strong.
27. Kansas City Chiefs (0-2)
-They played really good against the Ravens week 1 and played sloppy against Oakland. Cassel is going to win them games. This team wasn't that bad last season, just were pretty unlucky. Haley has them in shape and ready to play. This team is a team on the rise and should only get better.
28. Jacksonville Jaguars (0-2)
-I just don't think this team is very good. Garrard is a decent QB, but the team just doesn't have it. Can they put it together, sure. I don't see it though. The defense is average at best and the offense is just as average. MJD is the star of the team and I just can't see him carrying them that far.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-2)
-The Bucs are in a rebuilding stage and they have a rough schedule, which makes things even worse for them. They stayed competitive in the first two games. I don't expect them to win many games. What would be best for the Bucs would be to remain competitive and try and focus on the future and the development of Josh Freeman.
30. Detroit Lions (0-2)
-That's right, the team that hasn't won a game in 19 games isn't my worse ranked team. The Lions have played some decent football the first 2 weeks. They put up a good amount of offense on the Saints and played the Vikes well in the first half and disappeared in the 2nd. I don't see this team going winless much longer, hell I could see them pulling off a W this week.
31. St. Louis Rams (0-2)
-This team has an nonexistent offense apart from Steven Jackson and a pretty average defense. Marc Bulger isn't the QB he once was and they really need to look towards the future and find that franchise QB to go along with their franchise RB. Spags will improve this team in the long run, but right now they aren't that good.
32. Cleveland Browns (0-2)
-Brady Quinn ain't looking like a franchise QB and the team is playing pretty poorly. Some felt the Browns could be a sleeper, but I don't think that holds true anymore. Mangini is looking like a poor coach and the Browns are looking like a poor team. I think they could be in the running for that 1st pick come next April (yes I know it is only two weeks, but I can't see them improving that much).
1. New York Giants (2-0)
-I think they are the best team in football right now. The WR are shining and Eli is earning that paycheck. The defense is stout as usual and the ST is pretty darn good as well. They are the most complete team.
2. Baltimore Ravens (2-0)
-The 2nd most complete team in football. The Ravens always have a good defense and Joe Flacco doesn't seem like he will suffer a sophomore slump. He is really coming to his own and adding a passing attack to the Raven's offense. They have a stout run game in Rice, McGahee, and McClain as well.
3. Indianapolis Colts (2-0)
-Like always the Colts offense is one of the best in football. And when you can win a game when only holding the ball for 15 mins is pretty darn impressive. Manning is the 2nd best QB in football (behind Brees) and the WR is still decent. Defense should get better over the course of the year with Bob Sanders returning and the maturing of their young CB.
4. Atlanta Falcons (2-0)
-Just like Joe Flacco, Ryan is another shining sophomore. He is really in sync with new target Tony G and the defense is really playing well. If the defense continues its stellar play and the offense stays hot, Atlanta could be a scary team come playoff time.
5. New Orleans Saints (2-0)
-New Orleans is the home of the scariest and best offense in the NFL and also the MVP as of right now (yes it is early). But Brees is wheeling and dealing and I'm not sure if a defense will be able to stop the Saints and I'm not sure many offenses can keep with them. The defense is shaky, but it is definitely a major improvement over last season. Darren Sharper still has his playmaking abilities and has been one of the key factors in the defenses turnaround. Plus they have a top 10 run defense.
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (1-1)
-They really need to find a running game and quick. If they don't, I can't imagine the offense doing so well. Big Ben will only take them so far. I'm sure the Steelers fans will come in here and say they can go without a run game, but their run game is bad and needs fixing. Defense is still good and I think they'll last without Polamalu.
7. Minnesota Vikings (2-0)
-My team! The Vikes have the best RB in football and an aging, but what seems to be reliable QB. The Vikes have finished strong in each of their two games, but have started shaky, trailing at halftime in both games to the Browns and Lions. I expect that once the chemistry comes with Favre and the WR/TE's that will change. The defense is playing good ball and ST, still shaky, but better than last season.
8. Philadelphia Eagles (1-1)
-When McNabb gets back they'll be alright and stay a top 10 team throughout the year. Yes their defense was torched by NO, but what defense hasn't been. The Eagles offense is dangerous when McNabb is in, with Jackson, BWest, Celek (very underrated TE), McCoy, Curtis, Maclin, etc... If they stay healthy, they could be a scary contender at the end.
9. New York Jets (2-0)
-What may be the surprise team of the year thus far. Rex Ryan has this team balling and Mark Sanchez is playing some good ball. The defense has been the key to their success. Revis right now is arguably the best CB in football. Lets not forget Dustin Keller, who is really coming into his own as an NFL TE. I'm not sold completely on this team. They could be a fluke, but they definitely can't be counted out. They could be this years Atlanta Falcons.
10. San Diego Chargers (1-1)
-They had a shaky week 1 win against the Raiders and a tough defeat to Baltimore week 2. Rivers is one of the best QB in football and they have a stellar run tandem in LT and Sproles. Add in Gates and Vincent Jackson, who is really turning into a big game WR. Defense needs to step it up and if they do the Bolts will be ok and should make the playoffs.
11. New England Patriots (1-1)
-If McKelvin wouldn't have fumbled, this team could be 0-2. They really need to find some sort of balance on the offensive side. Brady has thrown the ball something like 100 times. They need to get some carries for their loads of RB. Maybe go to a 65/35 pass/run. The defense is playing decent and once Mayo gets back they should get better. Their offense can still run with anyone on most days and if they find that balance and Brady gets back to form, they should move up.
12. San Francisco 49ers (2-0)
-How bout them Niners. Mike Singeltary has this team playing and playing hard. Frank Gore is one of the most underrated backs in the league and Shaun Hill is a good game manager under center. The Crabtree crap doesn't seem to be hindering their play out all. Honestly they don't really need the kid, as Bruce and Davis are stepping up and they can rely on Gore. And lets not forget the defense. Patrick Willis, one of the best LB in the game and DE Justin Smith, underrated in his own right.
13. Tennessee Titans (0-2)
-You probably think I'm a little crazy for having an 0-2 team this high. But the Titans are a really good team. Lets not forget the Giants (when the won the SB) started 0-2. And this Titans team reminds me of that Giants team. A decent QB, not so great WR, a great running game, and an awesome defense full of rotation. I'm not saying they will win the SB, but they are definitely the best 0-2 team out there.
14. Green Bay Packers (1-1)
-The Bengals exploited the Packers weak spot, their O-Line (yes I know Clifton was hurt). If the line can start to gel and protect Rodgers they should be alright. The 3-4 defense has looked good thus far and the players seem to be adjusting well to it. The offense is there with Rodgers, Jennings, Driver, Grant, etc... The defense is there as well. If they can put it all together, the Pack could make some noise
15. Chicago Bears (1-1)
-Who would have thought the Bears would have defeated the Steelers after that poor performance against GB. Well they did. Cutler forgot about that poor game and worried about defeating Pit. Now if they can get Matt Forte going, they should be in good shape. Not having Urlacher is gonna hurt, but the defense has plenty of good players to lessen the pain of his absence.
16. Houston Texans (1-1)
-Right now I'm not sure what the identity of this team is. They shined offensively week 2 and had a hell of a game against Tennessee. But week 1, they didn't look so good. The offense has the potential to be one of the best in the league with Schaub, Andre, Walter, Daniels, and Slaton. But the defense needs to step it up. They got one of the best ends in Mario Williams and a very good LB in Demeco Ryans. Plus some other good unheralded players. The Texans are like the Bengals of a few years ago. A team that is praised as getting ready to reach the top, but haven't yet. I haven't bought into the hype yet, as I think they are nothing more than a 9-7 team.
17. Arizona Cardinals (1-1)
-The defending Super Bowl losers. Who knows if they'll be effected by that curse. I think they are anywhere from a 10 win to a 7 win team. The offense is obviously there. They showed that against the Jags week 2. They struggled against the Niners, but I don't think that is that big a deal. The weapons on offense are insane, and they have the ability to improve their rushing game with Hightower and Beanie. The defense however is lackluster. They have some stellar players on defense, but it seems they can't put it together. The Cardinals, to me are the NFC version of the Houston Texans.
18. Dallas Cowboys (1-1)
-The Boys struggled with a weak Bucs team and hung in there with a stellar Giants team. If the Boys wanna do anything, Romo needs to play like he did against the Bucs a majority of the season. And that defense really needs to step it up, especially the secondary. The defense has been torched by the passing game and they aren't getting the pressure they got last year. If the defense can be middle of the road and Romo can be consistent, Dallas is a borderline playoff team. If they can't, they are just a middle of the road team.
19. Buffalo Bills (1-1)
-This team is a McKelvin fumble away from being 2-0. They are playing decent football. Pretty balanced in offense and defense. I expect TO to get involved more and when Lynch comes back (though I think Fred Jackson is a stellar back as well). The team has the offensive weapons to do damage and a pretty decent defense to boot.
20. Denver Broncos (2-0)
-Yes, they are 2-0. But I haven't really been impressed with them. I don't think they are gonna make the playoffs, but they are definitely doing better than I expected them to do. I had them winning at most 4 games. Now I can see them winning at most 9 games. Orton wins games, he is the definition of a game manager. They are overachieving right now in my mind and I can't see them doing much damage throughout the season.
21. Miami Dolphins (0-2)
-They are definitely better than 0-2. And if I'm not mistaken they started 0-2 last season. I don't think they are a playoff team, but they are definitely a team to reckon with. The masters of the wildcat. This team can run the rock and they can pass as well. A decent defense, with a good set of pass rushers in Taylor and Porter. Don't sleep on the Phins, they can beat you.
22. Cincinnati Bengals (1-1)
-The Bengals are a team I said could surprise some people this season. I'll catch a lot of hate for this, but I think they could upset the Steelers this Sunday. If they could just put everything together and stay healthy the Bengals could be a playoff contender. It is doubtful that they will be, but stranger things have happened.
23. Washington Redskins (1-1)
-The Redskins spend all the money in the world, but never seem to make it show on the field. Campbell doesn't seem to be the QB to lead the team. I for one am a big Campbell fan. The team has a great RB in Portis, one of the best DT in football in Big Al and one of the best young S in Landry. I think they could have a bright future if they can put it all together.
24. Seattle Seahawks (1-1)
-With Hasselbeck out, they could drop. If he is in, I think they will hover around and be a potential playoff team. They have a deep WR corp and a up and coming TE in Carlson. Their star defensive player is banged up in Marcus Trufant, but they have some other guys in Kerney, Tatupu, and others. The key to their season is how injured Hasselbeck is and how soon he comes back.
25. Carolina Panthers (0-2)
-They have fallen on some rough times. Delhomme struggled BIG TIME week 1 and he was decent week 2. They need to get back to running the ball. If they wanna win, that is the key. Run to open up the pass. The defense is pretty solid and can get them by.
26. Oakland Raiders (1-1)
-Man, if Russell plays like he did week 2, this team isn't gonna win many games. Russell completed something like 7 passes out of 30 something. This team lost one of their key lineman in Robert Gallery. They have a good run trio in DMC, Bush, and Fargas. They have a good defense and great CB in Asomugha and Johnson. Richard Seymour has been money for them and a key part to that defense. If Russell plays like he did week 1, they could finish strong.
27. Kansas City Chiefs (0-2)
-They played really good against the Ravens week 1 and played sloppy against Oakland. Cassel is going to win them games. This team wasn't that bad last season, just were pretty unlucky. Haley has them in shape and ready to play. This team is a team on the rise and should only get better.
28. Jacksonville Jaguars (0-2)
-I just don't think this team is very good. Garrard is a decent QB, but the team just doesn't have it. Can they put it together, sure. I don't see it though. The defense is average at best and the offense is just as average. MJD is the star of the team and I just can't see him carrying them that far.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-2)
-The Bucs are in a rebuilding stage and they have a rough schedule, which makes things even worse for them. They stayed competitive in the first two games. I don't expect them to win many games. What would be best for the Bucs would be to remain competitive and try and focus on the future and the development of Josh Freeman.
30. Detroit Lions (0-2)
-That's right, the team that hasn't won a game in 19 games isn't my worse ranked team. The Lions have played some decent football the first 2 weeks. They put up a good amount of offense on the Saints and played the Vikes well in the first half and disappeared in the 2nd. I don't see this team going winless much longer, hell I could see them pulling off a W this week.
31. St. Louis Rams (0-2)
-This team has an nonexistent offense apart from Steven Jackson and a pretty average defense. Marc Bulger isn't the QB he once was and they really need to look towards the future and find that franchise QB to go along with their franchise RB. Spags will improve this team in the long run, but right now they aren't that good.
32. Cleveland Browns (0-2)
-Brady Quinn ain't looking like a franchise QB and the team is playing pretty poorly. Some felt the Browns could be a sleeper, but I don't think that holds true anymore. Mangini is looking like a poor coach and the Browns are looking like a poor team. I think they could be in the running for that 1st pick come next April (yes I know it is only two weeks, but I can't see them improving that much).
Like I was trying to prove a point to a user here a couple of weeks ago, the Giants receivers can make plays.
Those words in bold hold so much significance because it completely sold the Giants strategy. I was trying to tell a user that here a couple of weeks ago.
Stack everyone in the box against the running game?
From the first play of the game, the Giants throw a 50-yard deep ball on you LOL
The Giants found themselves in a great, great position! Due to the respect Jacobs draws (or the disrespect the wide receivers get), leaves all 8-9 players inside the box against the run. Normally the Giants could stupidly try what happened towards the end of the 08 season, but instead, they're going through the air.
Leave the wide receivers with no safety help, the Giants will pass the ball all game.
It's a recipe for success. Ignore the idiotic statements of how the Giants are rushing the ball like crap; it's their strategy. Our offense is just as good as it was last year. This time -- we're passing the ball first, and it works. When defensive coordinators respect our wide receivers, we'll run the ball with our backs much more easily.
Meanwhile, Eli Manning will have pretty stats as well our offense overall. I believe Steve Smith leads the NFL with Randy Moss in receptions & our offense remains in the top 10, similar to last year.
Should be a good couple of weeks.
Props on the Giants offensive line for not giving up a sack. Having 8 players rush against you, (which is just as bad as stacking all lineman against the run), and not giving up a sack, is amazing. Dallas' offensive line played great too.
Those words in bold hold so much significance because it completely sold the Giants strategy. I was trying to tell a user that here a couple of weeks ago.
Stack everyone in the box against the running game?
From the first play of the game, the Giants throw a 50-yard deep ball on you LOL
The Giants found themselves in a great, great position! Due to the respect Jacobs draws (or the disrespect the wide receivers get), leaves all 8-9 players inside the box against the run. Normally the Giants could stupidly try what happened towards the end of the 08 season, but instead, they're going through the air.
Leave the wide receivers with no safety help, the Giants will pass the ball all game.
It's a recipe for success. Ignore the idiotic statements of how the Giants are rushing the ball like crap; it's their strategy. Our offense is just as good as it was last year. This time -- we're passing the ball first, and it works. When defensive coordinators respect our wide receivers, we'll run the ball with our backs much more easily.
Meanwhile, Eli Manning will have pretty stats as well our offense overall. I believe Steve Smith leads the NFL with Randy Moss in receptions & our offense remains in the top 10, similar to last year.
Should be a good couple of weeks.
Props on the Giants offensive line for not giving up a sack. Having 8 players rush against you, (which is just as bad as stacking all lineman against the run), and not giving up a sack, is amazing. Dallas' offensive line played great too.
1. Ravens - they are the most complete team in the NFL they have a good offense and a great defense. They have all the tools to win the Super Bowl this year
2. Colts - Peyton Manning does it again, and with that offense they are going to be tough. There defense may not have looked great but they did what they had to do considering they were on the field all game because Peyton scored in 30 seconds 3 times.
3. Giants - A good team, led by Eli Manning but his receivers still scare me and I think there defense looked suspect against the Cowboys despite the turnovers by Romo, he had all day to throw he just couldnt make them.
4. Vikings - Adrian Peterson carries this team all year long, and Brett Favre is doing a great job for them, as he doesnt need to be the gunslinger and he can make those short 15 yard throws all day. Their defense is solid as well led by the Williams.
5. Saints - Tough decision between them and the Falcons, but their offense gives them the nod, I dont think anybody can stop them and if their defense can hold teams to under 30 they will be a great team.
6. Falcons - No sophomore slump for Matt Ryan and with Turner, White, and Gonzalez their offense is great, and their defense needs work but I think it is manageable with an offense like that
7. Jets- I hate to do this, but the Jets look great and they have an offense that isnt turning it over, and with a Rex Ryan defense if their offense gives 20 ppg they will be winning the AFC East (OMG over the Patriots)
8. Steelers - Best defense plus good offense = success. Yes they lost to the Bears but their kicker Jeff Reed, surprisingly, choked against the Bears but they will be fine and will be a top team once again when Polamalu returns.
9. 49ers - They are 2-0 right now, which is why they must be in the top 10 for now. I dont think it will last, but they have a good defense and they have an excellent coach and they could win a very weak division.
10. Broncos - Same reason in top 10 as 49ers, but they did play 2 very weak teams, but 2-0 is 2-0 and that deserves top 10 in my book.
11. Eagles - They will be fine when McNabb comes back, and I think they can win next week without him and when he comes back the Eagles will be a top 10 team.
12. Bears - Cutler looked very impressive against the Steelers and they had a great game overall. This could be a sign to come in Chicago and a wildcard berth looks good for them.
13. Chargers - Lost a tough battle to the Ravens at home but Phillip Rivers looked very impressive and this team is good enough to make a playoffs run with that offense and a decent defense
14. Patriots - Tom Brady has looked awful for 2 straight games (excluding the last 2 minutes against the Bills), and their offense is struggling and they have a very average defense at best. They need a lot of work but Bellichick can get it done.
15. Cardinals - they looked much better against Jacksonville, and Kurt Warner is back in stride now that he has all his weapons. The defense looks better this year and the run game has done the job for them.
16. Cowboys - Tony Romo look awful against the G-Men and he had no pressure through the game. Barber is out 1-2 weeks, and Felix Jones will need to do another week 2 performance. The defense looks average as well and the Cowboys need to get the act together.
17. Texans - Thats the offense everybody was expecting to see, and if they continue to do this the Colts will get a run for their money and Schaub to Johnson people can get use to that.
18. Bills - should be 2-0, but they look pretty good so far, but they looked good last year too and then they fall apart. So far no problems with T.O., and if he can produce they can be a good team.
19. Bengals - Should be 2-0 if it werent for a fluke pass, but an impressive victory over the Packers at home, and their offense is clicking even without Houshmanzadeh.
20. Packers - They should be higher but they need to be lower then the Bengals due to that loss, but Aaron Rodgers offensive line needs to step it up or this team can have problems in a tough division.
21. Seahawks - They looked bad against the 49ers, I know Hasselback went down but I still didnt like what I saw from them. They need work and hopefully Wallace can hold down the fort, or Seattle can be in trouble early
22. Redskins - They looked bad against the Rams, but a win is a win. They are a bad team though and the Campbell era looks to be ending after this year unless he steps it up.
23 Raiders - Good running game, NO passing game. Russell is god awful, they needed to keep Jeff Garcia because Russell needs to hit the bench. They are only at 22 because they won a game and deserve to be ahead of anybody 0-2.
24. Dolphins - 2 tough losses against 2 good teams and it will only get harder for them next week against the Chargers on the road. They looked good against the Colts, but their defense needs work as expected.
25. Titans - I dont like them that much. I think they are overrated and are going to struggle in their division. Kerry Collins isnt the answer, and Chris Johnson isnt going to have a game like that again, and their defensive secondary has looked awful and that was supposed to be a strength.
26. Panthers - Delhomme scares me, and if he can do his job they can be ok, but they need a lot of work and if they lose to the Cowboys on Monday Night you can call their season over.
27. Jaguars - They looked bad against the Cardinals, but they do have talent their and can turn it around but are in a brutal division. This could be the end of Del Rio.
28. Buccaneers - They are rebuilding and their running game isnt bad, plus they are building up Freeman for the future.
29. Chiefs - Cassel looked shaky in his first game but they are also rebuilding and are heading in the right direction with a whole new look in their team.
30. Browns - Brady Quinn needs to step it up or this team is going the wrong way as he is the future and he needs to be better, as he has had a few years already. This team looks awful
31. Lions - They are getting better, and they will go through bumps and bruises but they will win a game this year
32. Rams- They are old offensively and they suck. They need to completely start over starting at the draft next year.
2. Colts - Peyton Manning does it again, and with that offense they are going to be tough. There defense may not have looked great but they did what they had to do considering they were on the field all game because Peyton scored in 30 seconds 3 times.
3. Giants - A good team, led by Eli Manning but his receivers still scare me and I think there defense looked suspect against the Cowboys despite the turnovers by Romo, he had all day to throw he just couldnt make them.
4. Vikings - Adrian Peterson carries this team all year long, and Brett Favre is doing a great job for them, as he doesnt need to be the gunslinger and he can make those short 15 yard throws all day. Their defense is solid as well led by the Williams.
5. Saints - Tough decision between them and the Falcons, but their offense gives them the nod, I dont think anybody can stop them and if their defense can hold teams to under 30 they will be a great team.
6. Falcons - No sophomore slump for Matt Ryan and with Turner, White, and Gonzalez their offense is great, and their defense needs work but I think it is manageable with an offense like that
7. Jets- I hate to do this, but the Jets look great and they have an offense that isnt turning it over, and with a Rex Ryan defense if their offense gives 20 ppg they will be winning the AFC East (OMG over the Patriots)
8. Steelers - Best defense plus good offense = success. Yes they lost to the Bears but their kicker Jeff Reed, surprisingly, choked against the Bears but they will be fine and will be a top team once again when Polamalu returns.
9. 49ers - They are 2-0 right now, which is why they must be in the top 10 for now. I dont think it will last, but they have a good defense and they have an excellent coach and they could win a very weak division.
10. Broncos - Same reason in top 10 as 49ers, but they did play 2 very weak teams, but 2-0 is 2-0 and that deserves top 10 in my book.
11. Eagles - They will be fine when McNabb comes back, and I think they can win next week without him and when he comes back the Eagles will be a top 10 team.
12. Bears - Cutler looked very impressive against the Steelers and they had a great game overall. This could be a sign to come in Chicago and a wildcard berth looks good for them.
13. Chargers - Lost a tough battle to the Ravens at home but Phillip Rivers looked very impressive and this team is good enough to make a playoffs run with that offense and a decent defense
14. Patriots - Tom Brady has looked awful for 2 straight games (excluding the last 2 minutes against the Bills), and their offense is struggling and they have a very average defense at best. They need a lot of work but Bellichick can get it done.
15. Cardinals - they looked much better against Jacksonville, and Kurt Warner is back in stride now that he has all his weapons. The defense looks better this year and the run game has done the job for them.
16. Cowboys - Tony Romo look awful against the G-Men and he had no pressure through the game. Barber is out 1-2 weeks, and Felix Jones will need to do another week 2 performance. The defense looks average as well and the Cowboys need to get the act together.
17. Texans - Thats the offense everybody was expecting to see, and if they continue to do this the Colts will get a run for their money and Schaub to Johnson people can get use to that.
18. Bills - should be 2-0, but they look pretty good so far, but they looked good last year too and then they fall apart. So far no problems with T.O., and if he can produce they can be a good team.
19. Bengals - Should be 2-0 if it werent for a fluke pass, but an impressive victory over the Packers at home, and their offense is clicking even without Houshmanzadeh.
20. Packers - They should be higher but they need to be lower then the Bengals due to that loss, but Aaron Rodgers offensive line needs to step it up or this team can have problems in a tough division.
21. Seahawks - They looked bad against the 49ers, I know Hasselback went down but I still didnt like what I saw from them. They need work and hopefully Wallace can hold down the fort, or Seattle can be in trouble early
22. Redskins - They looked bad against the Rams, but a win is a win. They are a bad team though and the Campbell era looks to be ending after this year unless he steps it up.
23 Raiders - Good running game, NO passing game. Russell is god awful, they needed to keep Jeff Garcia because Russell needs to hit the bench. They are only at 22 because they won a game and deserve to be ahead of anybody 0-2.
24. Dolphins - 2 tough losses against 2 good teams and it will only get harder for them next week against the Chargers on the road. They looked good against the Colts, but their defense needs work as expected.
25. Titans - I dont like them that much. I think they are overrated and are going to struggle in their division. Kerry Collins isnt the answer, and Chris Johnson isnt going to have a game like that again, and their defensive secondary has looked awful and that was supposed to be a strength.
26. Panthers - Delhomme scares me, and if he can do his job they can be ok, but they need a lot of work and if they lose to the Cowboys on Monday Night you can call their season over.
27. Jaguars - They looked bad against the Cardinals, but they do have talent their and can turn it around but are in a brutal division. This could be the end of Del Rio.
28. Buccaneers - They are rebuilding and their running game isnt bad, plus they are building up Freeman for the future.
29. Chiefs - Cassel looked shaky in his first game but they are also rebuilding and are heading in the right direction with a whole new look in their team.
30. Browns - Brady Quinn needs to step it up or this team is going the wrong way as he is the future and he needs to be better, as he has had a few years already. This team looks awful
31. Lions - They are getting better, and they will go through bumps and bruises but they will win a game this year
32. Rams- They are old offensively and they suck. They need to completely start over starting at the draft next year.
2. Baltimore Ravens (2-0)
-The 2nd most complete team in football. The Ravens always have a good defense and Joe Flacco doesn't seem like he will suffer a sophomore slump. He is really coming to his own and adding a passing attack to the Raven's offense. They have a stout run game in Rice, McGahee, and McClain as well.
.
I'll give my opinion on these teams.
The Baltimore Ravens worry me a bit. I would say they are the best team in the NFL right now if their defense looks the way it did during the past 10 years, but it doesn't.
Baltimore is giving up way to many points and total yards against elite offenses.
Todd Haley's offensive system generated 24 points against them, and don't even get me started into Phillip Rivers' career day last Sunday. The Ravens usually have the best pass defense in the NFL. I think the defense might be declining. I'm not sure if it because of Rex Ryan, (which I do realize his system's been there for years), or because the defense can't keep up with fast scoring this new 'pass-first' offense is generating, thus staying on the field longer, but Baltimore WORRIES me. I'm not completely convinced they can go deep into the playoffs with this defense.
3. Indianapolis Colts (2-0)
-Like always the Colts offense is one of the best in football. And when you can win a game when only holding the ball for 15 mins is pretty darn impressive. Manning is the 2nd best QB in football (behind Brees) and the WR is still decent. Defense should get better over the course of the year with Bob Sanders returning and the maturing of their young CB.
The Colts are shining now, but nothing remotely special. Their defense is just too mediocre. Too, too, mediocre. Cover 2, Cover 2 with big bodied lineman for the run, just doesn't cut it in the NFL. Time and time again, run defense screws the Colts and they can not keep relying on Bob Sanders' elite Cover 2-run defense play to save their asses against the run. They need to apply pressure the traditional way to ever start winning against elite teams in the playoffs. They fall the same way every damn year and it doesn't look to change in 2008.
4. Atlanta Falcons (2-0)
-Just like Joe Flacco, Ryan is another shining sophomore. He is really in sync with new target Tony G and the defense is really playing well. If the defense continues its stellar play and the offense stays hot, Atlanta could be a scary team come playoff time.
Atlanta Falcons, in my opinion, will not go deep into the playoffs. Their defense is not agressive enough. Although they may have great talent, Mike Smith's 'less agressive, more zone' scheme just doesn't cut it for me. It was ranked in the bottom 10 last year, statistically. An elite offense that can extend pass plays can easily score against the Falcons' zone schemes. I realize the Falcons can win games on offense alone and outscore opponents if such situations occur, but I do not seeing it being very successful deep into the playoffs.
5. New Orleans Saints (2-0)
-New Orleans is the home of the scariest and best offense in the NFL and also the MVP as of right now (yes it is early). But Brees is wheeling and dealing and I'm not sure if a defense will be able to stop the Saints and I'm not sure many offenses can keep with them. The defense is shaky, but it is definitely a major improvement over last season. Darren Sharper still has his playmaking abilities and has been one of the key factors in the defenses turnaround. Plus they have a top 10 run defense.
The Saints, with all due to respect to Drew Brees, are just about average.
Their offensive line isn't very good. Their defense is AWFUL. And Reggie Bush is hype.
Drew Brees INSTANTLY, makes the Saints a better team. Brees knows when to check into the run, and when to pass. Everytime his medicore offensive line collapses; instead of a loss of a down, Drew Brees extends the play and throws a freakin' TD pass. But what exactly happens when the Saints play a top-15-caliber defense? Just like that Sunday night game with the Bears & Packers, defenses can easily put you out of sync the entire game, I don't care how good your arm is. Aaron Rodgers couldn't find a rhythm all game due to the Bears' pass rush. Imagine the Saints mediocre offensive line plays against a relentless pass rush? Not to mention their defense can not keep their offense in the game for shit. (Do not judge defensive stats this early in the season). The Saints will not score 40+ points against every team in the NFL. They had the top ranked offense last year, and only won 8 games.
10. San Diego Chargers (1-1)
-They had a shaky week 1 win against the Raiders and a tough defeat to Baltimore week 2. Rivers is one of the best QB in football and they have a stellar run tandem in LT and Sproles. Add in Gates and Vincent Jackson, who is really turning into a big game WR. Defense needs to step it up and if they do the Bolts will be ok and should make the playoffs.
The Chargers must step up their pass defense. They had the worst last year, with only the Lions doing worse. Against the Ravens, the Chargers defensive woes looks like it will only continue. San Diego has their offense on check, but their defense must improve to ever get any hopes of winning a super bowl. So far, it looks pretty much the same.
All the teams I quoted, are not teams, that I think, are bad. I only personally believe these teams will slip in the rankings, come mid-season, whereas teams such as the Bengals, Seahawks, Bills, Jaguars, Texans, or 49ers may make an appearance into the top 10.
I beg to differ on the Saints line. Jahri Evans is a very underrated guard, and lets not forget their star OT Jamaal Brown is on the shelf. He is an elite LT. The Saints line protects Drew Brees and they do a good job of it. And when Brees is pressured, he makes the most out of it. On plays he was blitzed last week, Brees was something like 7/7 with a TD.
I beg to differ on the Saints line. Jahri Evans is a very underrated guard, and lets not forget their star OT Jamaal Brown is on the shelf. He is an elite LT. The Saints line protects Drew Brees and they do a good job of it. And when Brees is pressured, he makes the most out of it. On plays he was blitzed last week, Brees was something like 7/7 with a TD.
Yeah, I was a bit harsh.
The Saints have done some off season moves to improve their offensive line, not to mention the expierence they now have from last year. But I still do not see the Saints making the playoffs or getting above .500.
Drew Brees' quick release(best in the NFL), makes the offensive line look a lot better than it is, but there are still a lot of flaws in that line from the Saints-Eagles game I've seen. The Eagles are considered a solid defense, but I am not going to have the Saints in the playoffs until I see how they do against teams like the Jets, Giants, and Patriots, whom all have great defenses. We'll see what happens.
People's Champ
Bleeding Teal
Stastically a team that starts 0-3 has just about a zero chance of making the playoffs. With that said who needs a win more?
There are 9 teams that are 0-2. But realistically no one expected the Chiefs, Lions, Bucs, or Rams to make it to the playoffs to begin with. But did anyone see the Titans, Panthers, Dolphins, Jaguars to start this bad? I didn't.
My choice has to be the Titans. They have too much talent to not have a win yet. And they are in a tough division with the Colts and Texans playing well. They can not afford to lose any more ground in the division. Who do you think needs a win more?
There are 9 teams that are 0-2. But realistically no one expected the Chiefs, Lions, Bucs, or Rams to make it to the playoffs to begin with. But did anyone see the Titans, Panthers, Dolphins, Jaguars to start this bad? I didn't.
My choice has to be the Titans. They have too much talent to not have a win yet. And they are in a tough division with the Colts and Texans playing well. They can not afford to lose any more ground in the division. Who do you think needs a win more?
Titans - With the level the defense can play up to, and the running game that they have, they'll be fine. Collins will settle down, the offense will get rolling, and they'll win some tough games. The Colts won't fall apart for them to catch, but the Texans defense hasn't been as good as it was last year. Look for the Titans to grab a Wild Card spot.
Panthers - With the division they're in, they really can't afford a loss. The Saints and Falcons are playing way too good for them to recover from going down 0-3. Delhomme is a wreck, and everyone saw it coming. If they don't figure out their QB situation, they're toast. The running game can only carry them so far, and the defense needs to put something together soon.
Dolphins - Pennington is one of the best QBs in the game, but he really needs to figure out the 2-minute offense. The Wildcat will help them win some games, but the defense needs to hold back the offense. The Colts had the ball for under 15 minutes on Monday, and still won. Unacceptable, and in that division, devastating.
Jaguars - I didn't expect them to make the playoffs, or compete, anyway, so I don't think they're in that dire a situation. Garrard is probably gone after this season, and Jones-Drew will have to carry a pretty big load. 0-3 won't hurt them, because they don't have much of a chance anyway.
My verdict - The Panthers need the win most to continue competing. The Patriots have been very human so far, and the Bills aren't as good as we expected, so the Dolphins can string together a few wins, and be right back in the thick of things. The Panthers can string together 4 or 5 wins, and still not be close to catching the leaders.
Panthers - With the division they're in, they really can't afford a loss. The Saints and Falcons are playing way too good for them to recover from going down 0-3. Delhomme is a wreck, and everyone saw it coming. If they don't figure out their QB situation, they're toast. The running game can only carry them so far, and the defense needs to put something together soon.
Dolphins - Pennington is one of the best QBs in the game, but he really needs to figure out the 2-minute offense. The Wildcat will help them win some games, but the defense needs to hold back the offense. The Colts had the ball for under 15 minutes on Monday, and still won. Unacceptable, and in that division, devastating.
Jaguars - I didn't expect them to make the playoffs, or compete, anyway, so I don't think they're in that dire a situation. Garrard is probably gone after this season, and Jones-Drew will have to carry a pretty big load. 0-3 won't hurt them, because they don't have much of a chance anyway.
My verdict - The Panthers need the win most to continue competing. The Patriots have been very human so far, and the Bills aren't as good as we expected, so the Dolphins can string together a few wins, and be right back in the thick of things. The Panthers can string together 4 or 5 wins, and still not be close to catching the leaders.
People's Champ
Bleeding Teal
I just started branching out on the forums and sports are huge for me. And so seeing this topic is great. Here's what I think.
Crabtree is freakin stupid!
Here's why. 1. He has done nothing in the NFL to deserve the money he wants. Yes he was a great COLLEGE player. But there are people in the NFL who have worked hard to get a good contract and yet this guy thinks he can just demand more? That's not how it works. He was drafted 10th. Yes he is way better than Hayward-Bey however he was drafted later therefore he get less money. The 49ers will not risk losing position on future draft picks or free agents by looking weak and giving in.
2. He is doing serious damage to his rep. Look at Brandon Marshall. He is a great reciever. However his actions after not getting traded or getting an extensiob have made him look bad. Real bad. He has become a huge headache. And he has shown he is a good reciever. Crabtree hasn't. So him showing this attiude will surely make people wonder what kind attitude this kid will have later on when things don't go his way.
3. He will never get as much money as he will now. As was stated he most likely won't even be the best reciever in the draft. And then there is the talk of an uncapped season. And people only seem to look at the fact of how much money players can get. But how bout lose? Say Crabtree goes back into the draft and is lucky and is picked tenth again. With no cap he is not guarnteed anything. The sloting system will no longer apply. So he could lose millions.
The best move for Crabtree is to just admit he's wront and get his ass on that team. The may be a power running team but they are a team on the rise. And after watching their number 1 guy drop passes, he could be the huge addition that could make them a more solid team.
Crabtree is freakin stupid!
Here's why. 1. He has done nothing in the NFL to deserve the money he wants. Yes he was a great COLLEGE player. But there are people in the NFL who have worked hard to get a good contract and yet this guy thinks he can just demand more? That's not how it works. He was drafted 10th. Yes he is way better than Hayward-Bey however he was drafted later therefore he get less money. The 49ers will not risk losing position on future draft picks or free agents by looking weak and giving in.
2. He is doing serious damage to his rep. Look at Brandon Marshall. He is a great reciever. However his actions after not getting traded or getting an extensiob have made him look bad. Real bad. He has become a huge headache. And he has shown he is a good reciever. Crabtree hasn't. So him showing this attiude will surely make people wonder what kind attitude this kid will have later on when things don't go his way.
3. He will never get as much money as he will now. As was stated he most likely won't even be the best reciever in the draft. And then there is the talk of an uncapped season. And people only seem to look at the fact of how much money players can get. But how bout lose? Say Crabtree goes back into the draft and is lucky and is picked tenth again. With no cap he is not guarnteed anything. The sloting system will no longer apply. So he could lose millions.
The best move for Crabtree is to just admit he's wront and get his ass on that team. The may be a power running team but they are a team on the rise. And after watching their number 1 guy drop passes, he could be the huge addition that could make them a more solid team.
Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens - Flacco and the Ravens running game have played very well, while the Browns defense hasn't shown the ability to stop anyone. Unless Brady Quinn gets some protection, this is going to be ugly. Ravens 31-14
Tennessee Titans @ New York Jets - Th strength of the Jets defense lies in their defensive backs, which means nothing here. Tennesse can run the ball well, and they'll continue that trend here. Once Johnson starts racking up yards, the passing game will open up for Collins. Sanchez has impressed, but I don't think he'll be quite ready for another strong defense. Titans 27-20
Washington Redskins @ Detroit Lions - This game is going to be ugly. Washington was barely able to beat the Rams, who might be worse than the Lions this year. Stafford turns the ball over way too much, but Washington has been rather inept at forcing them, so that should be a wash. It'll come down to a battle of field position, and who makes fewer mistakes. Redskins 13-9
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Houston Texans - Neither team has been able to play much defense this season, and I have a feeling it'll turn into a shootout. In a shooutout, can anyone really stop Andre Johnson? Figure in that Slaton has to get started eventually, and this can become quite the show. Texans 35-28
San Francisco 49ers @ Minnesota Vikings - Neither team is going to get a whole lot in the air here, since the Vikings have a great pass rush and solid group of defensive backs, and Favre has yet to show the big play ability that made him so popular. Can anyone stop Frank Gore? Can anyone stop Adrian Peterson? Patrick Willis can't do it himself. Vikings 17-13
Atlanta Falcons @ New England Patriots - With Welker returning, you have to imagine that Brady will finally be able to get on a roll, and that would spell trouble for a lot of teams. However, Atlanta has a very talented offense, and the addition of Gonzalez makes them that much better. Both defenses have also been good, so I don't expect a high-scoring affair. the real question is whether or not the Patriots defense can keep up with the Falcons' young guns. Falcons 20-14
New York Giants @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers - The Giants excel on the road, and have shown to be a complete team. While the Bucs have proven a lot of people wrong on the offensive side of the ball, their defense has left a lot to be desired. You have to think the Giants pass rush will break through eventually, and this could be the weak against an aging, slow offensive line. Giants 33-13
Kansas City Chiefs @ Philadelphia Eagles - With or without McNabb, the Eagles are in a great position to win this game. Kansas City's defense has not adjusted to a 3-4 scheme well, and their running game has not been able to keep defenses honest. With the Eagles playing the pass on defense, and incorporating Michael Vick into their offense, this could be over early. Eagles 37-17
Green Bay Packers @ St. Louis Rams - While I believe the Packers defense is good enough to keep the Rams offense in check, I don't know which Packers will show up. One week, they need a big play to win in the final minutes, and then they lost to the Bengals. If the offense gets rolling early, they'll be fine. Packers 26-7
New Orleans Saints @ Buffalo Bills - Usually, I'd just give this to the Saints, and move on. They'll make a lot of big plays, and put up a lot of points. But, who is going to cover Owens and Evans? They've been kept in check so far, but against solid schemes and corners. New Orleans has to get after Edwards and disrupt his timing, or we could be in for a surprise here. Saints 42-24
Chicago Bears @ Seattle Seahawks - After Week 1, I assumed the Bears were done without Urlacher. They bounced back Week 2, scoring a hard fought win over the Steelers. If Cutler can continue to improve, they should put more than 17 points on the board against Seattle. If asselbeck doesn't play for the 'Hawks, where do the points come from? Bears 23-15
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals - We all know the Bengals have a high octane offense, and the Steelers have the immovable object on defense. Without Polamalu, Benson could have some extra running room. This game will ultimately come down to the Steelers offense against the Bengals defense, and while I'm not the biggest fan of Big Ben, he certainly can't screw that up. Steelers 21-20
Miami Dolphins @ San Diego Chargers - Both teams were killed by poor decisions Week 2, and need to bounce back to stay afloat in their divisions. While Miami's Wildcat has been impressive, I don't think they'll be able to put up more yards than Rivers, Sproles & Co. Chargers 28-17
Denver Broncos @ Oakland Raiders - The Raiders opened the season in impressive fashion at home, muscling the Chargers allover the field, although they didn't pick up the win. The Broncos are one big play away from being 0-2, but aren't as bad as that might sound. If they can hold back the Raiders pass rush, they can pull off a huge win within their division. Broncos 34-24
Indianapolis Colts @ Arizona Cardinals - Arizona's defense lives on causing mistakes, but don't count on Indy to make any. Warner will be tested by the Colts' defensive ends, and will have to rely on Hightower keeping his momentum up on the ground. If he can do that, the Cardinals can keep it close. Colts 31-27
Carolina Panthers @ Dallas Cowboys - The Cowboys are looking to rebound after the tough loss in their stadium's debut, and should bounce back well. The Panthers have made mistake after mistake thus far, and need a win to stand a chance at making the playoffs. Look for Dallas's defense to pick up their game, and for the offense to make less mistakes than last week. Cowboys 23-14
Tennessee Titans @ New York Jets - Th strength of the Jets defense lies in their defensive backs, which means nothing here. Tennesse can run the ball well, and they'll continue that trend here. Once Johnson starts racking up yards, the passing game will open up for Collins. Sanchez has impressed, but I don't think he'll be quite ready for another strong defense. Titans 27-20
Washington Redskins @ Detroit Lions - This game is going to be ugly. Washington was barely able to beat the Rams, who might be worse than the Lions this year. Stafford turns the ball over way too much, but Washington has been rather inept at forcing them, so that should be a wash. It'll come down to a battle of field position, and who makes fewer mistakes. Redskins 13-9
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Houston Texans - Neither team has been able to play much defense this season, and I have a feeling it'll turn into a shootout. In a shooutout, can anyone really stop Andre Johnson? Figure in that Slaton has to get started eventually, and this can become quite the show. Texans 35-28
San Francisco 49ers @ Minnesota Vikings - Neither team is going to get a whole lot in the air here, since the Vikings have a great pass rush and solid group of defensive backs, and Favre has yet to show the big play ability that made him so popular. Can anyone stop Frank Gore? Can anyone stop Adrian Peterson? Patrick Willis can't do it himself. Vikings 17-13
Atlanta Falcons @ New England Patriots - With Welker returning, you have to imagine that Brady will finally be able to get on a roll, and that would spell trouble for a lot of teams. However, Atlanta has a very talented offense, and the addition of Gonzalez makes them that much better. Both defenses have also been good, so I don't expect a high-scoring affair. the real question is whether or not the Patriots defense can keep up with the Falcons' young guns. Falcons 20-14
New York Giants @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers - The Giants excel on the road, and have shown to be a complete team. While the Bucs have proven a lot of people wrong on the offensive side of the ball, their defense has left a lot to be desired. You have to think the Giants pass rush will break through eventually, and this could be the weak against an aging, slow offensive line. Giants 33-13
Kansas City Chiefs @ Philadelphia Eagles - With or without McNabb, the Eagles are in a great position to win this game. Kansas City's defense has not adjusted to a 3-4 scheme well, and their running game has not been able to keep defenses honest. With the Eagles playing the pass on defense, and incorporating Michael Vick into their offense, this could be over early. Eagles 37-17
Green Bay Packers @ St. Louis Rams - While I believe the Packers defense is good enough to keep the Rams offense in check, I don't know which Packers will show up. One week, they need a big play to win in the final minutes, and then they lost to the Bengals. If the offense gets rolling early, they'll be fine. Packers 26-7
New Orleans Saints @ Buffalo Bills - Usually, I'd just give this to the Saints, and move on. They'll make a lot of big plays, and put up a lot of points. But, who is going to cover Owens and Evans? They've been kept in check so far, but against solid schemes and corners. New Orleans has to get after Edwards and disrupt his timing, or we could be in for a surprise here. Saints 42-24
Chicago Bears @ Seattle Seahawks - After Week 1, I assumed the Bears were done without Urlacher. They bounced back Week 2, scoring a hard fought win over the Steelers. If Cutler can continue to improve, they should put more than 17 points on the board against Seattle. If asselbeck doesn't play for the 'Hawks, where do the points come from? Bears 23-15
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals - We all know the Bengals have a high octane offense, and the Steelers have the immovable object on defense. Without Polamalu, Benson could have some extra running room. This game will ultimately come down to the Steelers offense against the Bengals defense, and while I'm not the biggest fan of Big Ben, he certainly can't screw that up. Steelers 21-20
Miami Dolphins @ San Diego Chargers - Both teams were killed by poor decisions Week 2, and need to bounce back to stay afloat in their divisions. While Miami's Wildcat has been impressive, I don't think they'll be able to put up more yards than Rivers, Sproles & Co. Chargers 28-17
Denver Broncos @ Oakland Raiders - The Raiders opened the season in impressive fashion at home, muscling the Chargers allover the field, although they didn't pick up the win. The Broncos are one big play away from being 0-2, but aren't as bad as that might sound. If they can hold back the Raiders pass rush, they can pull off a huge win within their division. Broncos 34-24
Indianapolis Colts @ Arizona Cardinals - Arizona's defense lives on causing mistakes, but don't count on Indy to make any. Warner will be tested by the Colts' defensive ends, and will have to rely on Hightower keeping his momentum up on the ground. If he can do that, the Cardinals can keep it close. Colts 31-27
Carolina Panthers @ Dallas Cowboys - The Cowboys are looking to rebound after the tough loss in their stadium's debut, and should bounce back well. The Panthers have made mistake after mistake thus far, and need a win to stand a chance at making the playoffs. Look for Dallas's defense to pick up their game, and for the offense to make less mistakes than last week. Cowboys 23-14
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