1. St. Louis - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi
Draft picks 2008: DE Chris Long, WR Donnie Avery, OT John Greco, CB Justin King, WR Keenan Burton, OG Roy Schuening, DB Chris Chamberlin, OLB David Vobora
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Where to begin with the St. Louis Rams, right? How about offensive line? One that actually protects the QB and helps out the running game. And let us narrow that down to offensive tackle. Then, and only then, might the Rams consider a QB selection. Bulger might be fine for the moment, but if the Rams are to move forward (with or without a new regime) they need a new young QB for the long term.
Aside from an infusion of talent along the offensive line, the Rams could stand to pick up Torry Holt's eventual replacement, and add more depth to the defense.
2. Cincinnati - Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
Draft picks 2008: LB Keith Rivers, WR Jerome Simpson, DT Pat Sims, WR Andre Caldwell, OT Anthony Collins, DT Jason Shirley, FS Corey Lynch, TE Matt Sherry, DE Angelo Craig, WR Mario Urrutia
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Though the season is still relatively young, the Bengals look like the team a collegiat player would LEAST want to go to in the draft. It's a close race between the Bengals,Chiefs, Raiders and Rams. I'm thinking that no amount of draft picks this coming year will help this organization until there is a complete overhaul of ownership and management. Since probably none of that will happen, let's look at prospects and needs.
I would suggest a fire-sale/trade/release of current players (like OchoCJ & TJ Housh) and bring in an influx of hungry FA's and drafted rookies who want to play ball. Start on the defensive side, add a running back, some wideouts and some big offensive lineman. This will help allow Carson Palmer to pick apart defenses little by little with some solid veteran FA wideouts.
3. Detroit - Malcom Jenkins, CB, Ohio St.
Draft picks 2008: OT Gosder Cherilus, OLB Jordon Dizon, RB Kevin Smith, DT Andre Fluellen, OLB Cliff Avril, WR Kenneth Moore, FB James Felton, DE Landon Cohen, S Caleb Campbell.
Team Needs Outlook 2009: So the firing finally came. Quite a few years too late, but it came nevertheless. Matt Millen is gone, let the rejoicing begin. And perhaps, finally, a good draft that will mean a turnaround. The offense has some good weapons, but the offensive line still needs work and the running game is on-again, off-again because of it. Gosder Cherilus is a rookie, so it's not completely his fault being thrown into the fire his first year. But he needs to produce soon. And the pass protection needs improvement as well. On defense, seems just about nothing is going right. Just about every team can tally around 30+ points.
4. Kansas City - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
Draft picks 2008: DT Glen Dorsey, OG Brandon Albert, CB Brandon Flowers, RB Jamaal Charles, TE Brad Cottam, S DaJuan Morgan, WR Will Franklin, CB Brandon Carr, OT Barry Richardson, WR Kevin Robinson, DE Brian Johnston, TE Mike Merritt
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Tremendous '08 draft - on paper - for the Chiefs. Unfortunately it looks like it may be awhile before it starts paying off. Currently only top pick Glen Dorsey is starting, as the others are either injured or 2nd or 3rd on the depth charts, including a disappointing showing from Jamaal Charles. 7th round pick Brian Johnston is a bright spot, helping the rotation depth at DE. '09 will have to be the year to begin turning the corner. If there is a killer DE lurking when KC is on the clock, look for them to make a move. If Croyle ends up with a terrific season, then the pressure will be off to make a pick at QB. If he struggles, that will be a #1 priority. The Chiefs also need to add to the offensive line (specifically left tackle), another wideout to help stretch the defense, maybe another RB in the later rounds and then one more linebacker and secondary pick.
5. Cleveland - Chris "Beanie" Wells, RB, Ohio State
Draft picks 2008: OLB Beau Bell, TE Martin Rucker, DT Ahtyba Rubin, WR Paul Hubbard, DE Alex Hall
Team Needs Outlook 2009: For a team that looked to have turned the corner, thus far this season it has been all about just how far they have yet to travel. But they do have the potential to breakout at some point in the near term. Whether or not Romeo Crennel will still be leading them is another story altogether, but the foundation has seemingly been set. One thing is painfully obvious, and that is the defense still needs impact players and the offense needs a consistent, more powerful running game.
6. Houston - James Davis, RB, Clemson
Draft picks 2008: OT Duane Brown, CB Antwaun Molden, RB Steve Slaton, LB Xavier Adibi, DT Frank Okam, FS Dominque Barber, QB Alex Brink
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Duane Brown was a good first step for the Texans along the offensive line. It looks as if there will be a need to add more to the line in order to get the optimum passing protection and then elevate the run blocking. I would also suggest that a RB would fit nicely into that plan, even with the addition last year of Steve Slaton. He's not an every down back but rather a jack-of-all-trades type for an offense. They also could use a deep threat at wideout with size to help draw away the doubles off Andre Johnson and allow him to roam a bit more easily and give Kevin Walter a chance to prosper as a slot guy. And the Texans need some more help at corner, because Jacques Reeves isn't a solid long-term solution there.
7. Oakland - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
Draft picks 2008: RB Darren McFadden, CB Tyvon Branch, WR Arman Shields, DE Trevor Scott, WR Chaz Schilens
Team Needs Outlook 2009: No rookie has broken into the starting lineup for Oakland other than Darren McFadden from the 2008 Raider draft. So the Raiders need to continue completing the puzzle - mainly along both lines, which is of obvious importance on offense in order to protect JaMarcus Russell. Oakland needs to add a go-to wideout who is big, quick, won't get hurt every year and is under the age of 45. Well, okay, 30. Walker and Curry are running on fumes, and the backups aren't anyone to be excited about with the possible exception of Chaz Schilens. So add WR, offensive linemen, a backup QB and another tight end to the front lines in terms of needs.
8. Minnesota - James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State
Draft picks 2008: FS Tyrell Johnson, QB John David Booty, DT Leroy Guion, C John Sullivan, WR Jaymar Johnson
Team Needs Outlook 2009: I have an out-of-this-world idea for the Vikings for the 2009. Kinda like a one-time-good-deal sorta thing. That is, allow me to select for you in the draft just this one time, especially when it comes to quarterback and wide receiver, which should be two of your top needs - again - after having blown two of last year's picks. Not to mention the one on Tavaris Jackson. Deal? Good. I'll be waiting. Other than that and maybe some depth personnel for offensive line and defensive tackle, I think you're in solid shape.
9. Seattle - William Moore, FS, Missouri
Draft picks 2008: DE Lawrence Jackson, TE John Carlson, DT Red Bryant, FB Owen Schmitt, LS Tyler Schmitt, RB Justin Forsett, K Brandon Coutu
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Lets start at running back and work our way out. Maurice Morris, Julius Jones and even T.J. Duckett are okay, but the Seahawks need a game-changer along the lines of a Adrian Peterson or Marshawn Lynch. Even a rookie like Matt Forte in order to help propel this team into a long playoff run. I might be in the minority, but I thought the Hawks whiffed on their TE selection. Carlson might be tall, but he's not that physical which is needed when fighting for that extra yard or to go get an off-target pass in the red zone.
Perhaps he'll be fine, but I'm not quite sure just yet. The fact that he is #1 on the depth chart means the Seahawks need to at least look at depth at that position. And based on the injury-plagued wide receiving corps that Seattle had to battle early on, it's probably a good idea to add some youth (and size) to the postion. Grabbing an offensive lineman would be a prudent move as well, as well as more depth at safety and right defensive tackle.
10. Miami - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
Draft picks 2008: OT Jake Long, DE Phillip Merling, QB Chad Henne, DT Kendall Hampton, OT Shawn Murphy, RB Jalen Parmele, OG Donald Thomas, RB Lex Hilliard, DE Lionel Dotson
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Miami took a big step forward in rebuilding along the front lines on offense and defense, and there's no reason to think Parcells won't continue to do so if someone like Johnson or Other are sitting there for the first pick. Miami still needs a little bit of everything, but Parcells always leans towards the big, versatile, durable athletes.
After losing wideouts Chambers and Booker after the '07 season, this could be a target for the Dolphins, though not necessarily a priority first or second round pick. It looks like Miami has the two QB's it will need in Pennington and Henne, so that will allow them to focus on the BPA for defensive secondary, wideout, linebacker and tight end.
11. San Francisco - Greg Hardy, DE, Mississipi
Draft picks 2008: DE Kentwan Balmer, OG Chilo Rachal, DB Reggie Smith, OL Cody Wallace, WR Josh Morgan, OLB Larry Grant
Team Needs Outlook 2009: The 49ers still need a top wideout for that Martz offense in my opinion. Bruce is nice to have as a veteran with experience, but they need a young speedster who can put the fear of god into a secondary. DE is still a top need, as they moved rookie Kentwan Balmer (their top pick in '08) to the nose tackle position for added rotational depth. Unless Walter Curry turns out to be a sleeper at DE, this will still be a need. A solid #2 back behind Gore is still required, so this is a pivotal season for DeShaun Foster and Michael Robinson.
12. Green Bay - George Selvie, DE, South Florida
Draft picks 2008: WR Jordy Nelson, QB Brian Brohm, DB Patrick Lee, TE Jermichael Finley, DE Jeremy Thompson, OT Josh Sitton, OT Breno Giacomini, QB Matt Flynn, WR Brett Swain
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Solid ballclub with a lot of youth and talent at nearly every position. 2009 will be all about reinforcing it for years to come with depth at multiple positions. Like they usually do, the Pack will be selecting the best player available with each pick.
No need to scratch your head over what position will be targeted first - just deteremine who the best available player will be at the Packers pick, and you'll know who the name is to be called. There is one area where the fountain of youth isn't as deep, and that is at cornerback...but it is not a do or die pick for the first round if there isn't a solid option available.
13. NY Jets - Brian Cushing, LB, USC
Draft picks 2008: DE Vernon Gholston, TE Dustin Keller, CB Dwight Lowery, QB Erik Ainge, WR Marcus Henry, OT Nate Garner
Team Needs Outlook 2009: While the Jets continue the re-tooling of the offense as Brett Favre adjusts to the new playbook, it looks like a quality running back and big, tall wideout would do wonders for that side of the ball. On the defensive side, some additional depth at linebacker and the defensive line. Does anyone see Kellen Clemens as the future QB of this franchise after Brett retires at the end of this season or next? Neither do I. So if Clemens is not the answer and Ainge is a rather unknown commodity, is there a potential pre-draft trade possible?
14. Indianapolis - Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama
Draft picks 2008: OT Mike Pollak, OLB Phillip Wheeler, TE Jacob Tamme, OLB Marcus Howard, TE Tom Santi, C Steve Justice, RB Mike Hart, WR Pierre Garcon, OL Jamey RIchard
Team Needs Outlook 2009: There are two picks that should be glaringly obvious for the Colts to make with their first two picks in the 2009 draft. Defensive tackle, and defensive tackle. If you don't see that happen, expect riots to break out from Anderson to Terre Haute, Lafayette to Loogootee. Okay, well maybe not riots. But there will be a ton of people ticked off. The glaring void at DT was completely unexpected and the usually step-ahead Bill Polian got caught flat-footed when DT Quinn Pitcock suddenly retired at age 26, and then Ed Johnson was cut for hanging out with the chronic.
Suddenly, no DT's and no viable options available to plug the gap. On top of that, his linebacking corps were dropping like flies with injuries, so depth was non-existent for the Colts in that area. Make a long story short, defense will be the main focus. Specifically defensive linemen, cornerbacks and linebackers, with a possible selection of a wideout and left tackle.
15. Atlanta - Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest
Draft picks 2008: QB Matt Ryan, OT Sam Baker, LB Curtis Lofton, CB Chevis Jackson, WR Harry Douglas, FS Thomas DeCoud, OLB Robert James, OLB Kroy Biermann, RB Thomas Brown, CB Wilrey Fontenot, TE Keith Zinger
Team Needs Outlook 2009: The Falcons wasted little time putting their #1 pick into the position of franchise saviour. We'll see how that works out. By the way, so far so good. Meantime, Atlanta still has some gaps to fill, but definitely filled some with their '08 draft. Look for the Falcons to add a big body at TE, where Hartsock won't cut it. There's also a need for Brooking's eventual replacement and maybe a taller presence at corner, with additional help body in the secondary and in the linebacking corps
16. New England - Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida
Draft picks 2008: OLB Jerod Mayo, CB Terrence Wheatley, OLB Shawn Crable, QB Kevin O'Connell,CB Jonathan Wilhite, WR Matt Slater, OLB Bo Ruud
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Even though the Pats have a pretty solid group of offensive linemen, there is always room for more depth to keep pushing the starting vets....especially after Tom Brady gets knocked out for the year. So target the offensive line and the safety position when figuring out who New England will target for the 2009 draft. Additionally, linebacker could be a depth pick once again, since Mayo cracked the starting rotation and Crable helped for depth. Izzo, Bruschi and Vrable aren't getting any younger, so getting at least one more backer will be important if the right player is available at the right pick. Don't be surprised if the Patriots land a running back to shake up the current rotation with Maroney, Faulk, Morris and Jordan.
17. San Diego - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
Draft picks 2008: CB Antoine Cason, FB Jacob Hester, RB Marcus Thomas, CB DeJuan Tribble, OT Corey Clark
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Defensive line and safety remain key additions for the Chargers to pursue in the 2009 draft. Merrimen's injuru was not factored into the '08 draft obviously, but the depth beyond the starters should have been addressed last year. Be certain it will this time around. And while Darrin Sproles has been fine in his backup role to LT, the age and injury bug might be catching up with Ladanian, so San Diego's emotionless GM could be engaging a long-term scenario where he considers drafting LT's (or Sproles) eventual replacement. Think LeGarrette Blount of Oregon - a Brandon Jacobs with speed type back - in a mid-round steal IF Blount comes out of college a year early.
18. Philadelphia (From Carolina) - Taylor Mays, S, USC
Draft picks 2008: DT Trevor Laws, WR DeSean Jackson, OLB Bryan Smith, OT Mike McGlynn, FS Quintin Demps, CB Jack Ikegwuonu, OT Mike Gibson, ILB Joe Mays, OLB Andy Studebaker, OT King Dunlap.
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Philly had a tremendous draft in 2008 and many of their selections are paying dividends in their rookie year already. If they cand do even half as well in 2009, McNabb & Co. could be the odds on favorite to make a run at the Super Bowl each of the next couple of years. That's assuming, of course, that both McNabb & Westbrook can stay healthy enough to get there with them. So the upcoming draft could be just as important as the one this past April.
Look for the Eagles to target a big play TE that can help to round out the offensive options for McNabb, and probably a safety or secondary player with versatility at any position. And really, it's not too early to target another multi-faceted running back to start learning the ropes from Westbrook, who along with Burkholder, are getting up in age for running backs. Could use some offensive line depth picks too as age is quickly catching up with Thomas and Runyan.
19. Arizona - Fili Moala, DT, USC
Draft picks 2008: CB, Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie, DE Calais Campbell, WR Early Doucet, DE Kenny Iwabema, RB Tim Hightower, DE Chris Harrington, OT Brandon Keith
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Arizona has one of the most prolific offenses in all of football, and their defense is getting better all the time. The 2009 draft could be the one that creates a recurring playoff team for Ken Whisenhut and the Cardinal faithful. Only the potential loss of Anquan Boldin to contract issues would cause a setback for this team. I also think they have to face reality and get a solid RB of the future to replace Edge at the end of the 2009 season. Hightower was a nice surprise, but he'll need a talented partner to tag team with in the running game and James is probably at the final leg of his career.
The type of linebackers for the Whisenhut defensive scheme are missing right now so look for him to target some linebackers and a safety, along with running back and wide receiver - depending on the Boldin situation. I won't go into the QB possibility right now, since there is still quite a bit of season left to play. But with an aging Warner and a disappoint Leinart, the Cardinals might be forced to use one of their picks on a prospect at that position.
20. Chicago - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
Draft picks 2008: OT Chris Williams, RB Matt Forte, WR Earl Bennett, DT Marcus Harrison, S Craig Steltz, CB Zachary Bowman, TE Kellen Davis, DE Ervin Baldwin, OG Chester Adams, OLB Joey LaRocque, OT Kirk Barton, WR Marcus Monk.
Team Needs Outlook 2009: I've seen many mocks for the Bears this year list a QB as the lead draft pick (again) for a team who still needs help along the offensive line and a big wideout who has speed. QB is quite a ways down the list on my draft sheet, and it certainly does not include Curtis Painter of Purdue as many mocks currently show. No, the Bears have many needs that would make this team a legitimate NFC Championship threat for the next four to five years, and QB isn't among the desperate needs at this point. Imagine Chicago with Marques Colston or Brandon Marshall.
There is no vertical game in Chicago, which allows opposing defenses to stack the box or go with continual blitz packages that force Orton or Grossman into quick, short passes while the rush batters them all day long. Beef up the offensive line. Chicago drafted three offensive lineman in 2008, kept two and one of those is on IR. Add wide receivers with speed and size, get rid of Olsen and find another solid TE that can hold onto the ball and the Bears will be set. Kellen Davis and Olsen have been huge disappointments at that position thus far. Oh, and there will be plenty of good QB's available in the later rounds.
21. New Orleans - Myrone Rolle, S, FSU
Draft picks 2008: DT Sedrick Ellis, CB Tracey Porter, DT DeMario Pressley, OT Carl Nicks, K Taylor Mehlhaff, WR Adrian Arrington.
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Defense, defense, defense. Then rinse and repeat. This should be the ONLY mantra for the Saints in the 2009 draft, with the exception of offensive line and a big running back to help rotate in and out for Deuce. Cornerback depth, linebacker depth and another DT for rotational depth should round out the rest of the draft.
22. Jacksonville - Alex Mack, C, California
Draft picks 2008: DE Derrick Harvey, DE Quentin Groves, OLB Thomas Williams, CB Trae Williams, RB Chauncey Washington
Team Needs Outlook 2009: The offensive line is still a need for Jacksonville, particularly at Center, so look for Jacksonville to target that area as well as safety with their one or two of their first few picks. Aside from that, the Jags are pretty well set at every position.
23. Denver - James Davis, RB, Clemson
Draft picks 2008: QB Joe Flacco, RB Ray Rice, OLB Tavares Gooden, FS Tom Zbikowski, OG Oniel Cousins, WR Marcus Smith, OT David Hale, FS Hanuki Nakamura, WR Justin Harper, RB Allen Patrick
Team Needs Outlook 2009: It is fascinating that the Ravens went from relatively major concern along the offensive to what has started to emerge as a very pleasant surprise. With Ogden's impending retirement, it looked as if the hole on the left side would be irreplaceable. And maybe the final answer isn't really there just yet, but David Hale and Oniel Cousins have made huge contributions as rookies thus far for the Ravens.
However, if they continue to play as well as they have thus far, Baltimore can start to focus in on some more defensive players to help rebuild youth into that side of the ball. I'd like to see them select a big wideout that can help stretch a defense a little more in order to open the running game for McGahee & Rice, while giving Flacco a young target he can develop with for the future.
24. Tampa Bay - Louis Murphy, WR, Florida
Draft picks 2008: CB Aqib Talib, WR Dexter Jackson, OG Jeremy Zuttah, DT Dre Moore, QB Josh Johnson, ILB Geno Hayes, RB Cory Boyd.
Team Needs Outlook 2009: If the Bucs and Jon Gruden want a trip back to the Super Bowl, they need to get their QB situation settled once and for all. Griese - or Jeff Garcia - or Josh Johnson isn't the answer. And while the defense is still tough, it is getting along in years at some key positions. At DE, I'm not sold on Greg White or Jimmy Wilkerson as suitable starters once Kevin Carter is finished with his career.
There also needs to be some more youth added to the backer corps - even though I will loathe the day we have to see Derrick Brooks retire. And the wideout position is still a need, as Michael Clayton is the lone big target without much help. Joey Galloway is ready for retirement, with Ike Hilliard soon to follow, while Bryant and Jackson are not sufficient.
25. Baltimore - Ciron Black, OT, LSU
Draft picks 2008: QB Joe Flacco, RB Ray Rice, OLB Tavares Gooden, FS Tom Zbikowski, OG Oniel Cousins, WR Marcus Smith, OT David Hale, FS Hanuki Nakamura, WR Justin Harper, RB Allen Patrick
Team Needs Outlook 2009: It is fascinating that the Ravens went from relatively major concern along the offensive to what has started to emerge as a very pleasant surprise. With Ogden's impending retirement, it looked as if the hole on the left side would be irreplaceable.
And maybe the final answer isn't really there just yet, but David Hale and Oniel Cousins have made huge contributions as rookies thus far for the Ravens. However, if they continue to play as well as they have thus far, Baltimore can start to focus in on some more defensive players to help rebuild youth into that side of the ball.
I know the Ravens already have Heap, but how about a huge safety blanket-type target for Joe Flacco to help move the changes or convert inside the redzone....wouldn't be stunned if they picked Brandon Pettigrew, the big 6-6 TE from Oklahoma St.
26. Dallas - Javon Ringer, RB, Michigan St.
Draft picks 2008: RB Felix Jones, CB Mike Jenkins, TE Martellus Bennett, RB Tashard Choice, CB Orlando Scandrick, DE Erik Walden
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Not very many holes on this team from top to bottom, so most all picks will be depth picks. With the emergence of Miles Austin, wideout isn't as high on the list as it once was....which is not to say it isn't still on the list. The secondary and linebacking corps can still be supplemented with rotational depth, and perhaps quarterback.
Why QB? Because Brook Bollinger isn't a good option, and while Brad Johnson is, his age precludes him from being in Big D for much longer anyhow. Might be a need to add a DE and SS to push the starters in next year's training camp and perhaps add some more aggressive youngsters to the pass rush, pass defense.
27. Pittsburgh - Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma
Draft picks 2008: RB Rashard Mendenhall, WR Limas Sweed, DE Bruce Davis, OT Tony Hills, QB Dennis Dixon, LB Mike Humpal, FS Ryan Mundy
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Gotta believe that the offensive line will get some attention in this year's draft, as well as cornerback and free safety depth. The Steelers added some young playmakers at the wideout position last draft, but I'm not sold that Nate Washington is the answer, so maybe one more big wideout in the later rounds would be warranted.
The Steelers may be looking at finding young replacements for Marvel Smith and Max Starks on the Oline once they go free agent at year's end. Trai Essex will also be a free agent, while Willie Colon becomes a restricted free agent. Guard Chris Kemoeatu will also be a free agent in 2009 and Therefore, two picks for the offensive tackle position, as well as guard, may be in order.
28. Carolina - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St.
Draft picks 2008: RB Jonathan Stewart, OT Jeff Otah, CB Charles Godfrey, OLB Dan Connor, TE Gary Barnidge, DT Nick Hayden, OLB Hilee Taylor, OL Geoff Schwartz, OG Mackenzy Bernadeau
Team Needs Outlook 2009: It looks as if the addition of Jonathan Stewart has given the Panthers the powerful duel running threat they have been seeking, which has allowed the passing game to become more effective. Beefing up the defensive line was a need in ''08 and looked to do the same again in '09, but thus far the DLine for Carolina has tallied 8 of the 10 sacks racked up by the Panthers through week 5 It also looked like Jake Delhomme was going to be an afterthought as Carolina QB coming into the season. Not anymore, but I do think selecting a backup QB in this draft would be wise.
All that said, can't pass on a huge target like Pettigrew. Imagine him on one side, with rookie Dante Rosario on the other side? 6-6 Pettigrew and 6-4 Rosario as the Ends, along with Steve Smith and Muhsin Muhammad at the wideouts, and Stewart or Williams out of the backfield.......looks intimidating, at least on paper. If Carolina passes on Pettigrew, Buffalo certainly won't.
29. Buffalo - Everette Brown, DE, Florida St.
Draft picks 2008: CB Leodis McKelvin, WR James Hardy, DE Chris Ellis, CB Reggie Corner, TE Derek Fine, OLB Alvin Bowen, RB Xavier Omon, OT Demetrius Bell, WR Steve Johnson, CB Kennard Cox
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Buffalo is poised to be a continual threat in the AFC for years to come following their past three drafts. If they can top it off in 2009 with some added talent at some key positions, the BIlls will be a true force. I still believe their TE position could be upgraded with a hybrid type that forces better mismatches in the middle of opposing defenses, giving Edwards additional check-down targets and creating multiple threats. Maybe Fine is "fine" for this role, but they need an immediate impact TE for the offense and I haven't seen that yet from Fine, though I know he's been injured and Royal is just okay.
In addition, I would add a left defensive end, give running back Marshawn Lynch another backup as I'm not completely certain Jackson or Oman are the candidates for that long-term role, but depth behind Lynch is critical. Defensively, left end would be a place I'd bolster in the '09 draft, along with safety behind Donte Whitner. I'm sure Bills fans are just elated there are no extremely huge holes that need filled on a team that has turned the corner.
30. Washington - Terrance Taylor, DT, Michigan
Draft picks 2008: WR Devin Thomas, TE Fred Davis, WR Malcolm Kelly, OT Chad Rinehart, CB Justin Tryon, P Durant Brooks, DB Kareem Moore, QB Colt Brennan, DE Rob Jackson, FS Chris Horton
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Washington made some great strides offensively in the '08 draft with a group of receivers that will ultimately help supercharge the offense. Other than some offensive line depth and a bulldozing running back to ultimately "try" to replace Mike Sellers, I think the offense is set. And there aren't too many glaring needs defensively, although defensive end and linebacker would be my initial targets in helping solidify the defense. The three main backers for the Skins are great, but some quality depth behind them would be beneficial. Same for the secondary in regards to depth.
31. Tennessee - Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma
Draft picks 2008: RB Chris Johnson, DE Jason Jones, TE Craig Stevens, DL William Hayes, WR Lavelle Hawkins, OLB Stanford Kelgar, CB Cary Williams
Team Needs Outlook 2009: Offensive line is a must. I was surprised they didn't draft anyone for the offensive line in '08, but l guess they just couldn't pass on those available at the time. So look for Tennessee to add to O-line. Wideout is still a need in my book, especially one that can get downfield and create trouble in the red zone.
A slot guy with speed would also be useful. McCareins, Jones and Williams are okay, but they need a playmaker to lift the Titans out of the lower half of the league in passing offense. That will also help increase the effectiveness of the run offense that is in the top portion of the league.
32. N.Y. Giants - Sen'Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn
Draft picks 2008: FS Kenny Phillips, CB Terrell Thomas, WR Mario Manningham, OLB Bryan Kehl, LB Jonathan Goff, QB Andre Woodson, DE Robert Henerson
Team Needs Outlook 2009: The defending Super Bowl champions have done remarkably well after losing so many key players from their title team. There are spots on the roster that can be bolstered, but it certainly doesn't look like the rebuilding project many were anticipating after the loss of some of those players earlier in the year. The 2009 draft for the Giants will mainly focus on anticipating future roster losses as they relate to contracts being signed or not signed. Otherwise, the talent pool on this roster is one of the more robust in the league and the Giants just tab the best player available with their selection.
Monday, October 6, 2008
BoilerMacR's NFL Power Rankings - Week Five
Some fantastic games in week 5, topped by the miraculous come-from-outta-nowhere-comeback by the Indianapolis Colts. But right there with them is Miami's romp over San Diego. The Dolphins have now knocked off both of last season's Conference Championship participants. The Atlanta Falcons serving notice that they aren't to be taken lightly any longer. And the Redskins over Philly? You kidding me? And an impressive comeback win for Tennesse over Baltimore keeps the Titans unbeaten.
Right now, there are two exceptionally good teams in the NFL, then a few more that are pretty good, then some decent teams, then all the rest. Therefore, a tie is in order at #1 in the Power Rankings.
TIE 1.(4) Tennessee (5-0) - Signs of a team that is destined maybe? Trailing the entire game, they finally managed to find a way to pull it out late against a very intimidating and tough defense. Great win that will continue to increase the belief on the team that anything is possible.
TIE 1.(2) NY Giants (4-0) - I really, really want to jump the Giants over Tennessee, but I'll give the Titans the benefit of the doubt for now. Both teams beat tough defensive opponents that featured rather handicapped offenses. (No wideouts for Seattle, rookie QB for Baltimore.)3.(4)
Washington (4-1) - Hip-hip-Hooray! How 'bout them Redskins!? Other than Drew Brees and the magic in Miami, Jason Campbell is the story of the season thus far in my opinion. This guy has only had to handle the learning of multiple offenses in six successive years under new coaches going all the way back to his days at Auburn.
Now, with the steadying influnce and confidence-building restraints lifted off him by from coach Jim Zorn, Campbell is stepping into his own. The Skins spotted Philly a 14-0 lead, played the game without key members of their defense, then stormed back to win - at Philly. That's a pretty awesome feat.
4.(3) Dallas (4-1) - This should have been merely a scrimmage game for the Cowboys. They played like it and it very nearly cost them. I'm not sure who is going to do it, but someone needs to inform Romo that carrying the football around like he does will cost his team dearly in one of these games.
At least in this game, coaches (or Romo) didn't placate Terrell Owens by doubling the number of passes thrown to him from last week's 18. Today it was 2, but he made the most of those two by gaining 67 yards and scoring a TD. Great games from Felix Jones and Marion Barber kept the Bengals at bay.
5.(8) Carolina (4-1) - Panther defensive players are really playing well so far this year, and now the running game has helped DelHomme get the passing game untracked. It is a very formidable team now and unlike the Saints, have a solid and dependable defense, if not as potent an offense as the Saints. Speaking of division opponents, they get to travel down to Tampa Bay next week in a huge showdown.
6.(5) Buffalo (4-1) - Wow...that was a HUGE egg laid out in Arizona. True, having Trent Edwards knocked out early may have been disruptive enough to cause the offense a few hiccups, but what happened to that Bills defense? The good news is they get a bye week to prepare for the visit by San Diego October 19th.
7. (12) Pittsburgh (4-1) - Very fortunate to have pulled out a squeaker in Jacksonville. Although they controlled most of the game, it was closer than it should have been because of multiple penalties that kept giving the Jags additional chances on 3rd down. Huge props to Big Ben while taking another beating but keeping on ticking, leading his team to a very important win.
8.(6) Baltimore (2-2) Horribly disheartening loss for the Ravens. I know the hands to the helmet call late in the game was ridiculous, but Baltimore had chances to put the game away before then. For the first time this year, the rookie QB made rookie mistakes.
Still, the Ravens had Tennessee down four with barely over a minute to go, with the Titans starting on their own 20, but they couldn't keep them from moving down the field for the winning score.
9.(10) Denver (3-1) - The defense of Denver came out and played their best game of the year, while the offensive line held Tampa Bay to ZERO sacks the entire ballgame. Now add the fact that the Broncos only scored 16 points, and that defensive effort pops out at you even more. If their defense can do that the rest of the year, this team will be a major challenger for the AFC Championship. But as of now, the inconsistency of the defense leaves them vulnerable.
10.(9) Tampa Bay (3-2) - Stunning that the Bucs could hold the potent Denver offense to just 16 total points and still not win the game. Brian Griese getting knocked out of the game in the 1st half threw the offense for a momentary loop while Jeff Garcia needed some time to get acclimated.
Once he did, it was late in the game and was 9 points down. The Tampa defense bent just enough to allow Jay Cutler to keep moving the chains with time consuming drives that didn't score many points, but ate up the clock.
11.(20) Jacksonville (2-3) - WIth a chance to keep pace with Tennessee and to go up another game on Indianapolis, the Jaguars blew the chance at home against the Steelers. Pittsburgh dominated much of the game, but let Jacksonville hang close enough to take the lead in the 4th quarter, 21-20. But the Jags defense could not hold the Steelers out of the endzone, nor could it score a TD on a last minute drive.
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2.(17) New Orleans (2-2) - Monday Night Football vs Minnesota
Will move up one spot with a win over Minnesota.
13.(13) Chicago (3-2) - Kyle Orton and the Bears looked like the dominant Chicago Bears of the past. Of course, they were playing the Detroit Lions of the present, so that helped. But give Orton credit for putting points on the board and not relying (again) on being bailed out by the defense. And oh by the way, look who's all alone at the top of the NFC North standings.
14.(7) Philadelphia (2-3) - My have the mighty have fallen in such a short time. Looking like division title winners just a mere two weeks ago, losses to the Bears and Redskins now have Philadelphia readjusting and trying to dig themselves out of a hole. With the injuries to the Redskin defense and having Westbrook in the lineup, this loss was very surprising to me. Not to mention Philly fans.
15. (17) Arizona (2-2) - The Cardinals seemingly didn't miss a beat with Anquan Boldin out, as Kurt Warner found his replacement and others often enough for Arizona to just demolish a shell-shocked BIlls defense. And the Cardinal running game was especially effective when it had to be, getting solid work from James and Hightower. This makes last weeks whipping by the Jets all the more confusing.
16.(11) San Diego (2-3) - Wins over the Jets and Oakland, sandwiched between losses to Carolina, Denver and Miami. Either the Dolphins are primed for an AFC Championship run, or San Diego is standing on the brink of a slow, excruciating descent into mediocrity. Perhaps we'll get a preview of that answer next week as they host their annual tormentors from New England.
17.(18) New England (3-1) - Those sure don't look like the Patriots out there early on, even though they eventually made enough of those plays that force turnovers or take advantage of the other teams miscues.
Matt Cassel looked better, found Randy Moss long and the most underrated receiver in football, Wes Welker, on the chain moving short routes. The two Patriot wins have come against the Chiefs, Jets and now San Francisco, with a loss to Miami. Should be a thoroughly wild game vs San Diego next Sunday night.
18.(15) Atlanta (3-2) - Locked down their first road win of the year with a thrashing of a pretty good Green Bay team. Anyone who had any doubt that the Falcons are a much different team than a year ago needed to watch this game against Green Bay.
Matt Ryan is a solid QB with unbelievable potential for his career, while the running tandem of Turner and Norwood broke out of their doldrums of a week ago. The young receiving corps is gaining confidence and so is an improving defense. But most importantly, this team are beginning to believe in each other and their new coach. This will be a dangerous team to face throughout the year.
19.(19) Indianapolis (2-2) - For only the second time in NFL history, a team down 17 with just minutes remaining in the game come back to win. The other team? The Indianapolis Colts, in that wild Monday Night Football comeback a few years ago.
This team is by no means a threat for a Super Bowl at this point. In fact, with Tennessee and Jacksonville ahead of them in the division, they'll be fortunate to snag a wildcard spot at this point. However, this incredible win could spark them enough to regroup, and when they get everyone healthy again, they could unleash their fury down the stretch. Or, it could just delay the inevitable, considering the murderous schedule they embark upon for the next 5 or 6 weeks.
20.(20) NY Jets (2-2) - Bye week.
21.(16) Green Bay (2-2) - At home in Lambeau doesn't seem to have the same impact as it once did. Incredible to sit there and watch the rookie QB and the upstart Falcons just run all over the Packer defense. And in close games at Lambeau, one would usually give the edge to the home team. Today that just didn't happen. I am not so certain it was the right decision to allow Rodgers to play, but the coaching staff let him play and now we'll have to see if it affects him down the road.
22.(21) San Francisco (2-3) - Many opportunities to win this game early one were wasted by the 49ers. They should have had a lead at the halftime break but turned the ball over and allowed New England to drive in for a go-ahead score. That was ultimately the turning point in the game. J.T. O'Sullivan didn't make many mistakes, but the few he did were costly.
23.(25) Miami (2-2) - What the heck is this team doing? Trying to prove EVERYONE wrong in the amount of time it will take to go from absolute worst team to playoff contender? So far, so good in making that statement. The Dolphins have now soundly thumped both teams in the 2008 AFC Championship game. Hats off to Sparano & Parcells, along with the rest of the Miami team on a job well done thus far.
24.(23) Seattle (1-3) - Crushing loss to the Giants, and that's putting it mildly. We all knew that Hasselbeck was working with limited receivers, but that had no factor in this game as it was the Giant offense jumping - repeatedly - all over the Seahawk defense. Make no mistake though, the G-men had a good day defensively as well and the Hawks could get nothing going.
25.(24) Minnesota (1-2) - Monday Night Football @ New Orleans. Will move up to # 22 with win vs New Orleans.
26.(26) Oakland (1-3) - Bye week.
27. (27) Houston (0-4) - Still the best winless team in the NFL, only this loss could be a season killer. I am a loyal Colts fan, but I sincerely feel bad for Sage Rosenfels and his three turnovers in the final few minutes of the game. All he had to do, really, is slide down instead of doing his "John Elway Super Bowl helicopter" imitation. Basically, had he slid down, it probably would have clinched it. However, the fumble and subsequent TD after the recovery set off the 3 turnovers in 10 plays nightmare ending for the Texans.
28.(28) Cleveland (1-3) - Bye week
29.(32) Kansas City (1-4) - I can't make anything up bad enough that would equal what we saw out of Kansas City in their loss to Carolina. Now, let's give credit to an excellent Panther defense, but still....34-0?
I will say it again - not because I advocate it - but Herm's time is close at hand.
30.(30) Detroit (0-5) It's a shame they couldn't have had another bye this week to help prepare for the post-Millen era. Then again, that reconstruction is going to take much longer than back to back byes.
31.(31) Cincy(0-5) - It sure looked like it was the Bengals day when they recovered the on-side kickoff after cutting the lead to 17-16. And once again when they trimmed it to 24-22. But alas, they missed the 2 point after conversion and it was ultimately not to be in the land of Bungle. Hey! There we go! The new theme song for this club could be "Bungle in the Jungle". Appropriate credits to Jethro Tull & Co.
32.(32) St. Louis (0-4) - Bye week
Right now, there are two exceptionally good teams in the NFL, then a few more that are pretty good, then some decent teams, then all the rest. Therefore, a tie is in order at #1 in the Power Rankings.
TIE 1.(4) Tennessee (5-0) - Signs of a team that is destined maybe? Trailing the entire game, they finally managed to find a way to pull it out late against a very intimidating and tough defense. Great win that will continue to increase the belief on the team that anything is possible.
TIE 1.(2) NY Giants (4-0) - I really, really want to jump the Giants over Tennessee, but I'll give the Titans the benefit of the doubt for now. Both teams beat tough defensive opponents that featured rather handicapped offenses. (No wideouts for Seattle, rookie QB for Baltimore.)3.(4)
Washington (4-1) - Hip-hip-Hooray! How 'bout them Redskins!? Other than Drew Brees and the magic in Miami, Jason Campbell is the story of the season thus far in my opinion. This guy has only had to handle the learning of multiple offenses in six successive years under new coaches going all the way back to his days at Auburn.
Now, with the steadying influnce and confidence-building restraints lifted off him by from coach Jim Zorn, Campbell is stepping into his own. The Skins spotted Philly a 14-0 lead, played the game without key members of their defense, then stormed back to win - at Philly. That's a pretty awesome feat.
4.(3) Dallas (4-1) - This should have been merely a scrimmage game for the Cowboys. They played like it and it very nearly cost them. I'm not sure who is going to do it, but someone needs to inform Romo that carrying the football around like he does will cost his team dearly in one of these games.
At least in this game, coaches (or Romo) didn't placate Terrell Owens by doubling the number of passes thrown to him from last week's 18. Today it was 2, but he made the most of those two by gaining 67 yards and scoring a TD. Great games from Felix Jones and Marion Barber kept the Bengals at bay.
5.(8) Carolina (4-1) - Panther defensive players are really playing well so far this year, and now the running game has helped DelHomme get the passing game untracked. It is a very formidable team now and unlike the Saints, have a solid and dependable defense, if not as potent an offense as the Saints. Speaking of division opponents, they get to travel down to Tampa Bay next week in a huge showdown.
6.(5) Buffalo (4-1) - Wow...that was a HUGE egg laid out in Arizona. True, having Trent Edwards knocked out early may have been disruptive enough to cause the offense a few hiccups, but what happened to that Bills defense? The good news is they get a bye week to prepare for the visit by San Diego October 19th.
7. (12) Pittsburgh (4-1) - Very fortunate to have pulled out a squeaker in Jacksonville. Although they controlled most of the game, it was closer than it should have been because of multiple penalties that kept giving the Jags additional chances on 3rd down. Huge props to Big Ben while taking another beating but keeping on ticking, leading his team to a very important win.
8.(6) Baltimore (2-2) Horribly disheartening loss for the Ravens. I know the hands to the helmet call late in the game was ridiculous, but Baltimore had chances to put the game away before then. For the first time this year, the rookie QB made rookie mistakes.
Still, the Ravens had Tennessee down four with barely over a minute to go, with the Titans starting on their own 20, but they couldn't keep them from moving down the field for the winning score.
9.(10) Denver (3-1) - The defense of Denver came out and played their best game of the year, while the offensive line held Tampa Bay to ZERO sacks the entire ballgame. Now add the fact that the Broncos only scored 16 points, and that defensive effort pops out at you even more. If their defense can do that the rest of the year, this team will be a major challenger for the AFC Championship. But as of now, the inconsistency of the defense leaves them vulnerable.
10.(9) Tampa Bay (3-2) - Stunning that the Bucs could hold the potent Denver offense to just 16 total points and still not win the game. Brian Griese getting knocked out of the game in the 1st half threw the offense for a momentary loop while Jeff Garcia needed some time to get acclimated.
Once he did, it was late in the game and was 9 points down. The Tampa defense bent just enough to allow Jay Cutler to keep moving the chains with time consuming drives that didn't score many points, but ate up the clock.
11.(20) Jacksonville (2-3) - WIth a chance to keep pace with Tennessee and to go up another game on Indianapolis, the Jaguars blew the chance at home against the Steelers. Pittsburgh dominated much of the game, but let Jacksonville hang close enough to take the lead in the 4th quarter, 21-20. But the Jags defense could not hold the Steelers out of the endzone, nor could it score a TD on a last minute drive.
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2.(17) New Orleans (2-2) - Monday Night Football vs Minnesota
Will move up one spot with a win over Minnesota.
13.(13) Chicago (3-2) - Kyle Orton and the Bears looked like the dominant Chicago Bears of the past. Of course, they were playing the Detroit Lions of the present, so that helped. But give Orton credit for putting points on the board and not relying (again) on being bailed out by the defense. And oh by the way, look who's all alone at the top of the NFC North standings.
14.(7) Philadelphia (2-3) - My have the mighty have fallen in such a short time. Looking like division title winners just a mere two weeks ago, losses to the Bears and Redskins now have Philadelphia readjusting and trying to dig themselves out of a hole. With the injuries to the Redskin defense and having Westbrook in the lineup, this loss was very surprising to me. Not to mention Philly fans.
15. (17) Arizona (2-2) - The Cardinals seemingly didn't miss a beat with Anquan Boldin out, as Kurt Warner found his replacement and others often enough for Arizona to just demolish a shell-shocked BIlls defense. And the Cardinal running game was especially effective when it had to be, getting solid work from James and Hightower. This makes last weeks whipping by the Jets all the more confusing.
16.(11) San Diego (2-3) - Wins over the Jets and Oakland, sandwiched between losses to Carolina, Denver and Miami. Either the Dolphins are primed for an AFC Championship run, or San Diego is standing on the brink of a slow, excruciating descent into mediocrity. Perhaps we'll get a preview of that answer next week as they host their annual tormentors from New England.
17.(18) New England (3-1) - Those sure don't look like the Patriots out there early on, even though they eventually made enough of those plays that force turnovers or take advantage of the other teams miscues.
Matt Cassel looked better, found Randy Moss long and the most underrated receiver in football, Wes Welker, on the chain moving short routes. The two Patriot wins have come against the Chiefs, Jets and now San Francisco, with a loss to Miami. Should be a thoroughly wild game vs San Diego next Sunday night.
18.(15) Atlanta (3-2) - Locked down their first road win of the year with a thrashing of a pretty good Green Bay team. Anyone who had any doubt that the Falcons are a much different team than a year ago needed to watch this game against Green Bay.
Matt Ryan is a solid QB with unbelievable potential for his career, while the running tandem of Turner and Norwood broke out of their doldrums of a week ago. The young receiving corps is gaining confidence and so is an improving defense. But most importantly, this team are beginning to believe in each other and their new coach. This will be a dangerous team to face throughout the year.
19.(19) Indianapolis (2-2) - For only the second time in NFL history, a team down 17 with just minutes remaining in the game come back to win. The other team? The Indianapolis Colts, in that wild Monday Night Football comeback a few years ago.
This team is by no means a threat for a Super Bowl at this point. In fact, with Tennessee and Jacksonville ahead of them in the division, they'll be fortunate to snag a wildcard spot at this point. However, this incredible win could spark them enough to regroup, and when they get everyone healthy again, they could unleash their fury down the stretch. Or, it could just delay the inevitable, considering the murderous schedule they embark upon for the next 5 or 6 weeks.
20.(20) NY Jets (2-2) - Bye week.
21.(16) Green Bay (2-2) - At home in Lambeau doesn't seem to have the same impact as it once did. Incredible to sit there and watch the rookie QB and the upstart Falcons just run all over the Packer defense. And in close games at Lambeau, one would usually give the edge to the home team. Today that just didn't happen. I am not so certain it was the right decision to allow Rodgers to play, but the coaching staff let him play and now we'll have to see if it affects him down the road.
22.(21) San Francisco (2-3) - Many opportunities to win this game early one were wasted by the 49ers. They should have had a lead at the halftime break but turned the ball over and allowed New England to drive in for a go-ahead score. That was ultimately the turning point in the game. J.T. O'Sullivan didn't make many mistakes, but the few he did were costly.
23.(25) Miami (2-2) - What the heck is this team doing? Trying to prove EVERYONE wrong in the amount of time it will take to go from absolute worst team to playoff contender? So far, so good in making that statement. The Dolphins have now soundly thumped both teams in the 2008 AFC Championship game. Hats off to Sparano & Parcells, along with the rest of the Miami team on a job well done thus far.
24.(23) Seattle (1-3) - Crushing loss to the Giants, and that's putting it mildly. We all knew that Hasselbeck was working with limited receivers, but that had no factor in this game as it was the Giant offense jumping - repeatedly - all over the Seahawk defense. Make no mistake though, the G-men had a good day defensively as well and the Hawks could get nothing going.
25.(24) Minnesota (1-2) - Monday Night Football @ New Orleans. Will move up to # 22 with win vs New Orleans.
26.(26) Oakland (1-3) - Bye week.
27. (27) Houston (0-4) - Still the best winless team in the NFL, only this loss could be a season killer. I am a loyal Colts fan, but I sincerely feel bad for Sage Rosenfels and his three turnovers in the final few minutes of the game. All he had to do, really, is slide down instead of doing his "John Elway Super Bowl helicopter" imitation. Basically, had he slid down, it probably would have clinched it. However, the fumble and subsequent TD after the recovery set off the 3 turnovers in 10 plays nightmare ending for the Texans.
28.(28) Cleveland (1-3) - Bye week
29.(32) Kansas City (1-4) - I can't make anything up bad enough that would equal what we saw out of Kansas City in their loss to Carolina. Now, let's give credit to an excellent Panther defense, but still....34-0?
I will say it again - not because I advocate it - but Herm's time is close at hand.
30.(30) Detroit (0-5) It's a shame they couldn't have had another bye this week to help prepare for the post-Millen era. Then again, that reconstruction is going to take much longer than back to back byes.
31.(31) Cincy(0-5) - It sure looked like it was the Bengals day when they recovered the on-side kickoff after cutting the lead to 17-16. And once again when they trimmed it to 24-22. But alas, they missed the 2 point after conversion and it was ultimately not to be in the land of Bungle. Hey! There we go! The new theme song for this club could be "Bungle in the Jungle". Appropriate credits to Jethro Tull & Co.
32.(32) St. Louis (0-4) - Bye week
BoilerMacR's NFL Power Rankings - Week 4
Explain this season to me thus far, will you? Anyone - please. What the heck is going on? Buffalo gets jumped on by the Rams 13-0 to start the game, KC knocks off undefeated Denver, Tampa Bay is led by Brian Griese to a thumping of Green Bay, Jacksonville nearly loses at home to Houston and Washington gives Dallas everything they can handle in Big D. Incredible. This is one of the more topsy-turvy seasons that I can remember in a long while.
What I do believe is this: The top division remains the NFC East, followed by the NFC South and then a close race between the AFC South & AFC East. Following those four is the AFC West, then NFC North, AFC North and finally the NFC West. With that, here's the new power rankings for week #4.
1.(4) Tennessee (4-0) - This ballclub is for real and has its sights set on the AFC South Division title. They're in a good position to make it happen by extending their undefeated season to 4 games with the victory over Minnesota. This is not a group of over-achieving youngsters trying to will their way to win. This is a mostly veteran ballclub that is clicking in every facet of the game at present, and everytime rookie Chris Johnson touches the ball you're waiting to see what he does next. Good team.
2.(2) NY Giants (3-0) - Bye week.
3.(1) Dallas (3-1) - Chances to win division championships without winning the games you are supposed to win, especially against division opponents at home, are hard to come by. Now I'm not saying this is a season killing loss, because it isn't. But how is it that Marion Barber only touches the ball a half dozen times or so, and Felix Jones doesn't even see the ball in a big division game against an arch rival? Oh, and what's that I hear? It sounds like a TO outburst.....getcha popcorn ready Dallas fans.
The Cowboys continue to show signs of tightening up in big games and making mistakes in these types of games that they normally do not make against "lesser" teams. Speaking of which, the Bengals come to Dallas next week.
4.(10) Washington (3-1) - The Redskins had not allowed any points to any team in the 4th quarter coming into today's game. That feat didn't hold up, as they allowed the Cowboys to put up 7 late in the 4th quarter. Fortunately for the Redskins, they were already up by 9, and held on to knock off the Cowboys 26-24 in a thrilling game. Great gameplan, great effort by the entire team. The defense was solid, and Clinton Portis had a very good game as well. I'd like to give a special nod to Jason Campbell, who didn't wilt under the pressure of the Dallas defense.
5.(5) Buffalo (4-0) - At first I thought I had tuned in a game from a few years ago when I saw the first quarter score of 14-6 , Rams over the Bills. That score held up until the 3rd quarter before order was restored to the universe and Buffalo finally put St. Louis away. Although looking completely out of sync in the first half, Trent Edwards and the Bills got back on track soon enough to prevent an embarrassing (and possibly costly) loss on the road. Still, the shoddy play of the defense early on might cause some concern heading into a matchup next week with high-scoring Arizona.
6.(6) Baltimore (2-0) Monday Night Football vs Pittsburgh
7.(3) Philadelphia (2-2) - I thought the Eagles had the Bears right where they wanted them - with a lead late in the game and forcing Orton to put together a drive to lengthen their lead. Orton rose to the challenge. McNabb and the Eagles, with a chance to punch the ball in from a yard or so out, did not. But let us not forget they came THAT close to doing so....without Westbrook.
8.(13) Carolina (3-1) - Powerful defensive effort against the Falcon run forced Atlanta to a one-dimensional offense that didn't work out. Meanwhile Jake DelHomme tossed for almost 300 yards and 2 TD's, with no interceptions. Middle linebacker Jon Beason had a tremendous game with 7 solo tackles to help lead the defense shut down the Falcons. The Panther defense has held three teams with excellent running games to very low outputs.
9.(14) Tampa Bay (3-1) - Blessings and prayers to Matt Bryant and his wife, who had their personal life turned upside down over the weekend with the sudden death of their 3 month old infant. Playing through that horrible loss of life, the kicker hit on all 3 field goals, while the Buc defense decimated the Packers and QB Aaron Rodgers. The Bucs now face an interesting road test when they travel out west to Denver to meet the Broncos next week.
10.(7) Denver (3-1) - I am speechless on this one. Or should I say write-less? Either way, I don't know how to describe this loss except that it was absurd.
11.(11) San Diego (2-2) - Looked pretty ugly early on as they fell behind 15-0. The Chargers usually start in one of two extremes: Blowing out the other team, or falling behind while playing poorly. So it wasn't a complete shock that they came back after the poor start to shut down Oakland and send the Raiders (and probably Lane Kiffin) packing. The Chargers still don't look like a potential AFC Championship team.
12. (10) Pittsburgh (2-1) - Monday Night Football vs Baltimore
13.(18) Chicago (2-2) - Great job by the Bears defense when the game was on the line, but props also to Kyle Orton for not backing down when it counted. With rookie Matt Forte making some great catches and racking up some determined yards, the Bears kept the tough Eagle defense guessing many times throughout. It's the first time we've witnessed the potential balance that the offense could have when everyone contributes.
14.(17) New Orleans (2-2) - Here's the thing about the New Orleans Saints. If Drew Brees was not the quarterback, this team would probably be 0-4 right now. If this team had a healthy Deuce McCallister at the start of this season, this team would probably be 4-0 right now. Welcome back to Deuce, he was sorely missed and gave the Saints exactly what they needed on offense.
While Brees riddled the 49er secondary, McCallister blasted through the San Fran front lines for his first TD in a long, long time. Additionally, I would be remiss in not giving a salute to a pretty solid defensive frontline effort putting pressure on J.T. O'Sullivan, forcing two critical INT's, while limiting Frank Gore to just 82 yards and no scores.
15.(20) Jacksonville ( 2-2) - Not the greatest of showings in the win over Houston, but a win is a win and that makes two in a row within the division. That fact regarding a division win is even more important than how well they played, especially as it relates to keeping pace with the juggernaut that is the 2008 Tennessee Titans. Exceptional job by David Garrard in leading his team, especially on a critical 1st down conversion running the ball to keep a drive alive late in regulation.
16.(8) Green Bay (2-2) - Aaron Rodgers brought the Pack to within 20-14 after having three interceptions in the three quarters he played, before being forced to leave the game with an injury. The Buc defense was relentless, forcing 3 interceptions and a fumble that was returned for a touchdown. After Rodgers left the game in the third quarter, Matt Flynn couldn't move the team and then ended up losing by 9 points. The Packers don't look like a team that has all the talent to make the NFC Championship, but with Minnesota and Chicago not wanting to be the division leader, Green Bay might win it by default.
17.(12) Arizona (2-2) - After dropping a game to Washington late in the 4th quarter, the Cardinals were just obliterated by Brett Favre and the NY Titans (throwback day) while watching their top wideout Anquan Boldin leave the field on a stretcher after being sandwiched between two defenders. Hopefully Boldin will fully recover, but no doubt he is out at least for the upcoming game against undefeated Bills.
18.(19) New England (1-2) - Bye week
19.(21) Indianapolis (1-2) - Bye week
20.(25) NY Jets (2-2) - Simply amazing. Stunning. Superb. Sick. Silly. Stupendous. Pick an adjective of your own - it doesn't have to start with an "S", but it sure looked like one belonged on the chest of #4 for the Jets. And it happens to be the same letter that starts the word SIX, as in six touchdown passes in an offense that wasn't supposed to be as potent as Arizona's, nor able to do it as easily against an improved Cardinal defense. What's more, it looks like Favre and Coles are BFF now. The Living Legend ties the record of Joe Namath with 6 TD passes. Wow.
21.(16) San Francisco (2-2) - Completely had their butt kicked by the Saints. Three field goals was all the 49er offense could manage until it was so late it didn't really matter that they scored a TD. The defense was shredded by Drew Brees all day, so their is plenty of concern in the defensive secondary for that exploitation. They need to get it fixed as they entertain the Patriots next week.
22.(15) Atlanta (2-2) - The big test for Matt Ryan and the Falcons fell short, but not because of any problems on behalf of their rookie QB. This was a matter of a non-existent running game and being stymied by a brutal Carolina defense much of the day. The Falcon defense surrendered far too many passing yards as Jake Delhomme ended up with almost 300 yards passing. They'll need to regroup and get set for a big road test next week vs Green Bay.
23.(24) Seattle (1-2) - Bye week
24.(26) Minnesota (1-2) - This team is the best I've seen at totally screwing up a good thing. But in their overall defense, it also illustrates how badly they need a solid QB. But even with a good QB, they need some wideouts who know how to catch a football too. Perhaps they can take lessons next Monday night when they travel to New Orleans to play the Saints.
25.(27) Miami (1-2) - Bye week
26.(26) Oakland (1-3) - Probably not the best of games for Jamarcus Russell, who had several instances that could've helped his team but couldn't come through. Towards the end of the first half he had a certain running TD fall short when he failed to bull his way into the endzone from one yard away. This more than likely ends the Lane Kiffin era in Oakland, but not the losing.
27. (27) Houston (0-3) - The best winless team in the NFL, having lost to Pittsburgh, Tennessee and Jacksonville, while getting through the horror of Hurricane Ike's aftermath. This game was oh-so-close for the Texans.
To go into Jacksonville and nearly pull out a "W" speaks volumes as to how good this team is, but also, how much more they need to accomplish to overtake the likes of the Jags in the division. Heartbreaking loss after coming back at different times and holding the Jags running game in check all day.
28.(28) Cleveland (1-3) - Shrug of the shoulders from me in a win over hapless Cincinatti. Imagine winning the Ohio "0-fer" Bowl. Can't imagine that creating any super feeling of accomplishment, only relief they didn't lose the game and are winless no longer. The Browns now have a bye week before getting back to work against the defending Super Bowl champion Giants on Monday Night Football October 13th.
29.(32) Kansas City (1-3) - Herm Edwards saved his job, temporary as that may be. Thankfully the Chiefs braintrust took my pleads from last week to heart and started a real QB. He was already sitting on the bench, as Damon Huard came back this week and led the Chiefs to a stunning 33-19 thrashing of Denver. Big pats on the back to the offensive line for helping to spring Larry Johnson, while giving Huard time to find his receivers. Also, the Chiefs defense did a tremendous job shutting down the high-scoring Broncos
30.(30) Detroit (0-3)- See how well the Lions have done since firing Millen? They didn't lose. Course, I think much of that has to do with the fact it was their Bye Week. Just sayin'....
31.(29) Cincy(0-4) - I feel really, really bad for the Bengals. I really do.
32.(31) St. Louis (0-4) - The Rams came out swinging and had the undefeated Bills on the ropes early. Once things stablized a little, the game became even until Trent Green through an errant pass right into the hands of ....... who returned for a TD and a commanding lead for the Bills. My guess is that the Scott Linehan era is officially over in St. Louis by Monday afternoon.
What I do believe is this: The top division remains the NFC East, followed by the NFC South and then a close race between the AFC South & AFC East. Following those four is the AFC West, then NFC North, AFC North and finally the NFC West. With that, here's the new power rankings for week #4.
1.(4) Tennessee (4-0) - This ballclub is for real and has its sights set on the AFC South Division title. They're in a good position to make it happen by extending their undefeated season to 4 games with the victory over Minnesota. This is not a group of over-achieving youngsters trying to will their way to win. This is a mostly veteran ballclub that is clicking in every facet of the game at present, and everytime rookie Chris Johnson touches the ball you're waiting to see what he does next. Good team.
2.(2) NY Giants (3-0) - Bye week.
3.(1) Dallas (3-1) - Chances to win division championships without winning the games you are supposed to win, especially against division opponents at home, are hard to come by. Now I'm not saying this is a season killing loss, because it isn't. But how is it that Marion Barber only touches the ball a half dozen times or so, and Felix Jones doesn't even see the ball in a big division game against an arch rival? Oh, and what's that I hear? It sounds like a TO outburst.....getcha popcorn ready Dallas fans.
The Cowboys continue to show signs of tightening up in big games and making mistakes in these types of games that they normally do not make against "lesser" teams. Speaking of which, the Bengals come to Dallas next week.
4.(10) Washington (3-1) - The Redskins had not allowed any points to any team in the 4th quarter coming into today's game. That feat didn't hold up, as they allowed the Cowboys to put up 7 late in the 4th quarter. Fortunately for the Redskins, they were already up by 9, and held on to knock off the Cowboys 26-24 in a thrilling game. Great gameplan, great effort by the entire team. The defense was solid, and Clinton Portis had a very good game as well. I'd like to give a special nod to Jason Campbell, who didn't wilt under the pressure of the Dallas defense.
5.(5) Buffalo (4-0) - At first I thought I had tuned in a game from a few years ago when I saw the first quarter score of 14-6 , Rams over the Bills. That score held up until the 3rd quarter before order was restored to the universe and Buffalo finally put St. Louis away. Although looking completely out of sync in the first half, Trent Edwards and the Bills got back on track soon enough to prevent an embarrassing (and possibly costly) loss on the road. Still, the shoddy play of the defense early on might cause some concern heading into a matchup next week with high-scoring Arizona.
6.(6) Baltimore (2-0) Monday Night Football vs Pittsburgh
7.(3) Philadelphia (2-2) - I thought the Eagles had the Bears right where they wanted them - with a lead late in the game and forcing Orton to put together a drive to lengthen their lead. Orton rose to the challenge. McNabb and the Eagles, with a chance to punch the ball in from a yard or so out, did not. But let us not forget they came THAT close to doing so....without Westbrook.
8.(13) Carolina (3-1) - Powerful defensive effort against the Falcon run forced Atlanta to a one-dimensional offense that didn't work out. Meanwhile Jake DelHomme tossed for almost 300 yards and 2 TD's, with no interceptions. Middle linebacker Jon Beason had a tremendous game with 7 solo tackles to help lead the defense shut down the Falcons. The Panther defense has held three teams with excellent running games to very low outputs.
9.(14) Tampa Bay (3-1) - Blessings and prayers to Matt Bryant and his wife, who had their personal life turned upside down over the weekend with the sudden death of their 3 month old infant. Playing through that horrible loss of life, the kicker hit on all 3 field goals, while the Buc defense decimated the Packers and QB Aaron Rodgers. The Bucs now face an interesting road test when they travel out west to Denver to meet the Broncos next week.
10.(7) Denver (3-1) - I am speechless on this one. Or should I say write-less? Either way, I don't know how to describe this loss except that it was absurd.
11.(11) San Diego (2-2) - Looked pretty ugly early on as they fell behind 15-0. The Chargers usually start in one of two extremes: Blowing out the other team, or falling behind while playing poorly. So it wasn't a complete shock that they came back after the poor start to shut down Oakland and send the Raiders (and probably Lane Kiffin) packing. The Chargers still don't look like a potential AFC Championship team.
12. (10) Pittsburgh (2-1) - Monday Night Football vs Baltimore
13.(18) Chicago (2-2) - Great job by the Bears defense when the game was on the line, but props also to Kyle Orton for not backing down when it counted. With rookie Matt Forte making some great catches and racking up some determined yards, the Bears kept the tough Eagle defense guessing many times throughout. It's the first time we've witnessed the potential balance that the offense could have when everyone contributes.
14.(17) New Orleans (2-2) - Here's the thing about the New Orleans Saints. If Drew Brees was not the quarterback, this team would probably be 0-4 right now. If this team had a healthy Deuce McCallister at the start of this season, this team would probably be 4-0 right now. Welcome back to Deuce, he was sorely missed and gave the Saints exactly what they needed on offense.
While Brees riddled the 49er secondary, McCallister blasted through the San Fran front lines for his first TD in a long, long time. Additionally, I would be remiss in not giving a salute to a pretty solid defensive frontline effort putting pressure on J.T. O'Sullivan, forcing two critical INT's, while limiting Frank Gore to just 82 yards and no scores.
15.(20) Jacksonville ( 2-2) - Not the greatest of showings in the win over Houston, but a win is a win and that makes two in a row within the division. That fact regarding a division win is even more important than how well they played, especially as it relates to keeping pace with the juggernaut that is the 2008 Tennessee Titans. Exceptional job by David Garrard in leading his team, especially on a critical 1st down conversion running the ball to keep a drive alive late in regulation.
16.(8) Green Bay (2-2) - Aaron Rodgers brought the Pack to within 20-14 after having three interceptions in the three quarters he played, before being forced to leave the game with an injury. The Buc defense was relentless, forcing 3 interceptions and a fumble that was returned for a touchdown. After Rodgers left the game in the third quarter, Matt Flynn couldn't move the team and then ended up losing by 9 points. The Packers don't look like a team that has all the talent to make the NFC Championship, but with Minnesota and Chicago not wanting to be the division leader, Green Bay might win it by default.
17.(12) Arizona (2-2) - After dropping a game to Washington late in the 4th quarter, the Cardinals were just obliterated by Brett Favre and the NY Titans (throwback day) while watching their top wideout Anquan Boldin leave the field on a stretcher after being sandwiched between two defenders. Hopefully Boldin will fully recover, but no doubt he is out at least for the upcoming game against undefeated Bills.
18.(19) New England (1-2) - Bye week
19.(21) Indianapolis (1-2) - Bye week
20.(25) NY Jets (2-2) - Simply amazing. Stunning. Superb. Sick. Silly. Stupendous. Pick an adjective of your own - it doesn't have to start with an "S", but it sure looked like one belonged on the chest of #4 for the Jets. And it happens to be the same letter that starts the word SIX, as in six touchdown passes in an offense that wasn't supposed to be as potent as Arizona's, nor able to do it as easily against an improved Cardinal defense. What's more, it looks like Favre and Coles are BFF now. The Living Legend ties the record of Joe Namath with 6 TD passes. Wow.
21.(16) San Francisco (2-2) - Completely had their butt kicked by the Saints. Three field goals was all the 49er offense could manage until it was so late it didn't really matter that they scored a TD. The defense was shredded by Drew Brees all day, so their is plenty of concern in the defensive secondary for that exploitation. They need to get it fixed as they entertain the Patriots next week.
22.(15) Atlanta (2-2) - The big test for Matt Ryan and the Falcons fell short, but not because of any problems on behalf of their rookie QB. This was a matter of a non-existent running game and being stymied by a brutal Carolina defense much of the day. The Falcon defense surrendered far too many passing yards as Jake Delhomme ended up with almost 300 yards passing. They'll need to regroup and get set for a big road test next week vs Green Bay.
23.(24) Seattle (1-2) - Bye week
24.(26) Minnesota (1-2) - This team is the best I've seen at totally screwing up a good thing. But in their overall defense, it also illustrates how badly they need a solid QB. But even with a good QB, they need some wideouts who know how to catch a football too. Perhaps they can take lessons next Monday night when they travel to New Orleans to play the Saints.
25.(27) Miami (1-2) - Bye week
26.(26) Oakland (1-3) - Probably not the best of games for Jamarcus Russell, who had several instances that could've helped his team but couldn't come through. Towards the end of the first half he had a certain running TD fall short when he failed to bull his way into the endzone from one yard away. This more than likely ends the Lane Kiffin era in Oakland, but not the losing.
27. (27) Houston (0-3) - The best winless team in the NFL, having lost to Pittsburgh, Tennessee and Jacksonville, while getting through the horror of Hurricane Ike's aftermath. This game was oh-so-close for the Texans.
To go into Jacksonville and nearly pull out a "W" speaks volumes as to how good this team is, but also, how much more they need to accomplish to overtake the likes of the Jags in the division. Heartbreaking loss after coming back at different times and holding the Jags running game in check all day.
28.(28) Cleveland (1-3) - Shrug of the shoulders from me in a win over hapless Cincinatti. Imagine winning the Ohio "0-fer" Bowl. Can't imagine that creating any super feeling of accomplishment, only relief they didn't lose the game and are winless no longer. The Browns now have a bye week before getting back to work against the defending Super Bowl champion Giants on Monday Night Football October 13th.
29.(32) Kansas City (1-3) - Herm Edwards saved his job, temporary as that may be. Thankfully the Chiefs braintrust took my pleads from last week to heart and started a real QB. He was already sitting on the bench, as Damon Huard came back this week and led the Chiefs to a stunning 33-19 thrashing of Denver. Big pats on the back to the offensive line for helping to spring Larry Johnson, while giving Huard time to find his receivers. Also, the Chiefs defense did a tremendous job shutting down the high-scoring Broncos
30.(30) Detroit (0-3)- See how well the Lions have done since firing Millen? They didn't lose. Course, I think much of that has to do with the fact it was their Bye Week. Just sayin'....
31.(29) Cincy(0-4) - I feel really, really bad for the Bengals. I really do.
32.(31) St. Louis (0-4) - The Rams came out swinging and had the undefeated Bills on the ropes early. Once things stablized a little, the game became even until Trent Green through an errant pass right into the hands of ....... who returned for a TD and a commanding lead for the Bills. My guess is that the Scott Linehan era is officially over in St. Louis by Monday afternoon.
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