NFL Draft Mock from BoilerMacR

Mac's 2101 NFL Power Rankings (Pre-season)

2010-09-06T18:20:00.000-04:00

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That's at www.Drafttek.com

So welcome back football fans!!! It's finally time for the NFL to get back into full gear and it seems like it has been ages since the Super Bowl.

We're finally ready to dispense with the pretending and commence with the reality that is a new NFL season. The mind-numbing and oft-nauseating Favre watch is now officially over - for good. (We think) This will be his last season no matter what. (We hope) Teams have now pared down their rosters to the requisite 53 players, with teams claiming a few of those potential diamonds in the rough off waiver wires. Hardknocks is now over and Jets coach Rex Ryan will find out what that term truly means in the next few weeks- with or without Revis Island.

In the 2010 NFL season, I believe we'll see a couple of unfamiliar faces in playoff spaces come January, with former playoff "regulars" looking on from the proverbial sidelines. While the Saints might have a letdown from their championship year, there's no reason to think it will be because they are less hungry. Sometimes things just fall into place for you like an Adrian Peterson fumble, or a Hank Baskett muff. There's just nothing that can explain the how or why of it happening, but if you're on the side of "lady luck", then you have been supplied one more portion of that age-old formula "When preparation meets opportunity, success is a likely result." Or words to that effect.

Unless you're the Minnesota Vikings. But that's a whole different subject for a whole different day.

Mac's NFL Power Rankings will normally begin each season with the defending champion at the top of the heap, until it's first defeat. At that point all bets are off and anyone could jump up to #1 at any given time. Generally the first few weeks see quite a bit of change as the teams looked upon as favorites have a rugged start, or teams not expected to do that much ( a la Denver last season through week 6) shoot up into the top ten, only to slide down the rankings later on.
Before we get to the rankings, let me also make the journey out onto the shakey limb that is NFL predictions, and give you my division winners and playoff participants.

First, the division winners & wild card teams:

AFC DIVISION WINNERS & WILDCARD TEAMS

Cincinnati
Indianapolis
New England
San Diego
Tennessee
Baltimore

NFC DIVISION WINNERS & WILDCARD TEAMS

Green Bay
Dallas
New Orleans
San Francisco
Carolina
Minnesota

AFC Championship Game: Baltimore vs San Diego

NFC Championship Game: Carolina vs Green Bay

Super Bowl: Green Bay defeats San Diego

Alright, with the predictions out of the way and the 2010 NFL season is ready to launch, here's the first glance at the pre-season version of Mac's 2010 NFL Power Rankings. These rankings will be updated on Sunday evening (9/12) and again on Tuesday (9/13),following the double-header Monday night games. And throughout the season, be sure to check back with me every Monday to see how the rankings have changed, and where the rankings stack against your idea of how look in the NFL for the 2010 season.

Drop me an email or leave a comment here to blast me - if you feel the urge - or even if you'd like to agree ! (Yes, I'm quite the optimist, aren't I ? )

Let's get started:

1. New Orleans (13-3) - My own personal golden rule of power rankings is this: The team that wins it all the previous season starts at the top to begin the new season. I usually keep them right at #1 until someone can knock them from the ranks of the undefeated, and it starts taht way again this year. It took 13 weeks for the Saints to lose their first game last year, but I doubt it takes that long this time around. Minnesota, at the 49ers, then Atlanta and Carolina to start the divisional race off for New Orleans. That's four very tough teams right out the gate, and it gives reinforcement to the main concern for a repeat in New Orleans: Lack of depth at running back & no real upgrade at LB during the off-season. That could come back to haunt the Saints if injuries do pile up.

2. Indianapolis (14-2) – Minus a botched Hank Baskett recovery of an onside kick (that led to 7 points), some poor coaching decisions, a hobbled Dwight Freeney and a horrible goof by Manning and Wayne that led to 7 more points, these Colts might well be the defending champs for the second time in 4 years. Of course, if the dog hadn't stopped to take a crap, he would've caught the rabbit too. Still, Indy's a very formidable team so long as #18 is at QB, and chances are good they're the AFC South winner once again. That said, they face another year with critical problems along the offensive line and need to get better along the defensive line. The month of November and the first week in December is the toughest part of the schedule, but the Colts will need to jump out to that near-annual 6-0 start in order for a chance at a Super Bowl return.

3. Dallas (11-5) - The Cowboys have the talent and confidence to make the march to the Super Bowl. But then again, they've had that each of the past 3 or 4 seasons. It just seems that now it appears they have both the belief and the mental fortitude to pull it off. But the offensive line ( and by extention, Tony Romo )for Dallas is the key component. If they make it, at least they won't have to "march" very far. If they don't, and ruin Jerruh's Super Bowl shindig, look for LOTS of heads to roll. That's probably why they won't ultimately make it to the big game. And by the way a reminder to Houston fans all amped up by the pre-season thumping they gave to the Cowboys: September 26th is the rematch, and this one actually counts. Good luck.

4. Green Bay - (11-5) Forget about Favre and the drama in the Twin cities, because Green Bay is now THE force in the NFC North. The Packers are going to be a formidable opponent this year and have the ability to go all the way to Dallas for the Super Bowl. I don't think the offense will be the question mark for this team (except for the protection of Aaron Rodgers - especially against Minnesota), so the defense must be ready to clamp down when it counts. The Packers are capable of building up a record of 4-0 before face the Skins in D.C. on the 10th of October, followed by a meeting with Miami at Lambeau Field on Ocotober 17th. Those two games lead into the rematch with Minnesota on Sunday night, October 24th in Green Bay. Imagine the drama if both the Packers and Vikings are unbeaten coming into that game.

5. Baltimore (9-7) - I know, I know....the defense is a bit aged, but check out that offense - and with an additional top wideout for Flacco to utilize. Older defense perhaps, but still a pretty stout one. And the offense can score more than a TD per game now. Baltimore has four divisional games in its first six, sandwiched between the opener with the Jets and a trip to New England. If they can stay healthy, (and they haven't had a good amount of luck in that respect thus far) get more production out of Flacco and get some help from newcomers on defense, the Ravens could be the AFC title champ.

6. San Diego (13-3) – Two big problems keep the Chargers on the outside, looking-in. #1) The defense isn't dominant. #2) The lack of a running game, unless the rookie shines brightly. He has given us glimpses of being somthing special, but the previous few games don't mean anything. Oh, and I guess you could add the choking FG kicker in playoff games as #3. One caveat: SD has one of the easiest overall schedules in the entire NFL. You can count SD's opponents who made the playoffs a year ago on one hand. Seriously. Try it out for yourself.

7. Carolina (8-8) - Notice how three NFC South teams are in the top ten? That's not a mistake because it should be the toughest division in the NFL, just ahead of the entire AFC. QB Matt Moore has basically the same team as Jake Delhomme did and he has an even better defense to back him in 2010. Speaking of that defense, you'd think it certainly has to make the Panther offense better too, since they practice against them each week. Keep your eye on this team as a "sleeper" NFC title game team. It will be absolutely bloody in the NFC South this year.

8. Atlanta (9-7) – Tough call for me here, but I am going to give the benefit of doubt to the Falcons. Atlanta was a couple of injuries away from being a team in the Lombardi Trophy hunt last year, and will be a huge obstacle for the Saints attempt at a repeat championship. Still young at key positions, this ballclub may still be a year off from becoming a playoff-caliber force. However, the potential is there right now. The reason they are behind Carolina in this pre-season ranking is the Panther defense is better across the board at this point.

9. New England (10-6) – Some key offensive additions like Fred Taylor and Alge Crumpler give Brady and Moss veteran players to lean on. Couple that with Wes Welker's impending return and the emergence last season of , and you have a potentially powerful offense just chomping at the bit. Still, with no superior pass rush, the Pats need to score lots of points in order to fend off division rivals Miami and New York. How well the defense plays will determine if the Pats can lock up another division title.

10. Cincinnati (10-6) – Ochocinco gets his new teammate T.O. and Carson Palmer has a healthy Jerome Simpson and rookie Shipley. That's a pretty solid stable of wideouts. Not to mention the big target at tight end now. No reason and no excuses for the Bengals not to light up scoreboards with this offense. Being a devil's advocate for a moment, however, allows me to remind folks that TO hasn't played in as physical a division as the AFC North, and he's not exactly sticky fingers any longer - especially in cold weather. And Shipley and Gresham, though good, are still rookies. It's also time for the defense to step up.

11. New York Giants (8-8) - I probably have these guys too high this early on, what with all the offensive line problems and injuries to some big parts of the ballclub. Eli Manning now has a solid receiving corps but the predicted strong running game isn't that apparent at present. Perhaps that's to change once the actual season kicks off. Meantime, the defense looks to be much better in 2010 (the recent Baltimore pre-season game notwithstanding) and should give the Cowboys a run for the division title. Certainly they're better than the Jets.

12. N.Y. Jets (9-7) – Highly touted as having their "coming out" party last season. Huge media-driven "this is the year" hype underway, including SI's Don Banks drinking the Kool-aid. But nope, I'm not - and I like Kool-aid. Does anyone remember these were the same Jets that were 4-6 after that 31-14 pounding by the Patriots? Sure, they went on a 4-1 tear the final five weeks - against the likes of injury-riddled Carolina, a 19-13 squeaker over Buffalo and a 26-3 pasting of the Bucs. That was followed by a loss to Atlanta and then two wins against the "laying down" squads of Indy and Cincinnati. How that equates to this being "the year" is beyond me. Get Revis back into the fold and I'll buy that they could push for the playoffs - provided that the "Sanchize" doesn't slump in the dangerous 2nd year of a pro quarterback.

13. Minnesota (12-4) – I don't see Favre having as huge a year as he did last season - the schedule is tougher than a year ago. That doesn't even take into account the accumulated injuries that have hit the team during pre-season. The offensive line is a little creaky and their division isn't the cakewalk it was as both Detroit and Chicago will have much better teams on the field in 2010. Add to that the rematch right out of the gate against New Orleans. With all the hype from Viking fans surrounding that game, imagine the reaction should they lose.

14. Philadelphia (11-5) – Remember the old adage "If it ain't broke, don't fix it?" Yeah, but I guess the Eagles didn't. So off goes Mc5 to the Skins and in comes Kevin Kolb. That really wasn't the part that was broken. Oh boy - this could get ugly - and quick. IF Kolb rises to the challenge, watch out NFC East. If not, it's the NFC East cellar for Philly. That's the dilema I have with exactly where to place this Philly team. I am forced to be patient and wait for the season to unfold a little bit in order to rank them more properly. For now, however, the potential is there for them to make the playoffs.

15. Miami (9-7) - Not really sure if they can make a long playoff run, but time is on their side. The Marshall trade will be huge for the confidence of young Chad Henne IF can rise to the challenge of being the main guy. If not, watch out for the reintroduction of Chad Pennington - who WILL find Marshall early and often. Not a bad predicament to have, but the bigger question is how well the defense can rise to the occassion for 16 weeks.

16. Tennessee (8-8) - Once Jeff Fisher gave in to ownership and put VY in at QB, the Titans chalked up 8 wins in their next 10 games. Visions of long term success or just coincidence? So long as CJ2K can remain effective, look for the Titans to battle Houston for a place next to Indy in the AFC South. Pay close attention early on to the Titan defense, as they have retooled parts of it to remain effective and should be a pretty solid unit in 2010.

17. Pittsburgh (9-7) - I never, ever, underestimate the Steelers. The opening four games might be a barometer for the remainder of the season. Their schedule is pretty tough and with Big Ben out those first four games, a 2-2 start would be a god-send. If they start better than that, look out. The Steelers may have ultimately benefitted by the injury of Byron Leftwich, taking out the "statue" for their opponents to tee off on, while being able to insert Charlie Batch or the elusive Dennis Dixon. I'm betting Dixon gets the nod.

18. Houston (9-7) - For the past three years I've said this team is a playoff team. Well, to start out this year in Mac's Power Rankings, I'll just say they have the potential to be in the playoffs. That's as far as I'm going this year Texans. The rest is up to ya all cause the rest of us are tired of saying it, only to have you go out and prove us wrong time and again.
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19. San Francisco (8-8) – Same with the 49ers, only to a smaller extent, as Mike Singletary has had less time than Gary Kubiak to establish his imprint on San Francisco. It looks as though this ballclub might finally have the mental toughness to make the move to a playoff team. Each of their 2009 losses (with the exception of the Atlanta Falcons) came by a TD or less. I'd start them out higher, but will let them do the heavy lifting.

20. Washington (4-12) - Jason Campbell showed that there is a bit of spark in the passing game IF you can lead the team. He didn't, but Mc5 will. That doesn't mean the Skins can rack up the easy "W", but it does mean they shouldn't be overlooked. The Redskin defense will certainly give the team a chance to stick close, so it will be up to McNabb and the offense to close it out in most games.

21. Arizona (10-6) – Many are wondering how Matt Leinart will fare this year as the Cards starting QB. I actually think it'll be Derek Anderson at the helm to start the season, and if he can't get it done, the Cards will be looking for a new QB in the 2011 draft. Could be a down year for the passing attack, so a stout and stingy defense will be a much needed requirement if they want to make the playoffs.

22. Jacksonville (8-8) - The owner won't dump del Rio, at least maybe not until they move west. In the meantime, other than Maurice Jones-Drew, the Jags just don't have any consistent firepower on offense and they dropped 5 out of their final 6 games in 2009.

23. Chicago (7-9) – Big, big season and even bigger pressure on Jay Cutler in 2010. With Mike Martz there, the pressure to dial up big points will be felt each week. Saying Cutler has "Warner-like" attributes didn't do him any favors though. Adding FA Julius Peppers can only help the defensive unit, but letting Alex Brown walk was odd. Will be tough to battle past both the Packers and Vikings.

24. Denver (8-8) - The defense is what worries most in the Mile High city, but the rash of injuries that have decimated the running back corps in Denver is truly alarming. Former Bronco coach Mike Shanahan knew the drill all too well in Denver a couple of times, but now Josh McDaniels must try and find suitable depth to help take the pressure off of Kyle Orton and the passing game. Even though Orton has now seemingly mastered the offense and looked sharp in the pre-season, he's not going to be able to carry the offense solo - especially with a questionable defense.

25. Kansas City - This will be an extremely interesting team to watch this season. Can the team move forward and up far enough, fast enough, to get into playoff contention. They have definitely added some top players on both sides of the ball.

26. Seattle (5-11) – I'm not expecting a whole lot out of "USC North" in their first year under Pete Carroll. Sure seems like the coach has had plenty to be distracted with during the off-season, but Seattle has actually looked fairly stable in pre-season. Of course, pre-season doesn't count.

27. Oakland (5-11) – Good draft(finally) and the addition of Jason Campbell with a chip on his shoulder is better than JaMarcus Russell with a pout on his face. Although Campbell being carted off in the 3rd pre-season game isn't what you want to see. In the AFC West, they'll battle Denver for that 3rd spot to try and stay ahead of KC - but don't be shocked if Oakland disrupts an otherwise tame AFC West.

28. Detroit (2-14) – Well, it's getting better incrementally in the Motor City. With some good drafting and a couple of solid FA acquisitions, the Lions aren't the guaranteed "W"of old for their weekly opponents. However, looking over their first four games, it might be a deja vu thing all over again - at least to start the season. If they do better than 2-4 before their bye week on October 24th, that's a big step forward.

30. Tampa Bay (3-13) – Will remain in last place in the NFC South, but should be a better team - though it's not like they were being blown out each game a year ago. Losing Josh early on doesn't help matters, so it wouldn't surprise me if the Bucs fell down a notch or two from this not-so-lofty crow's nest.

29. Buffalo (6-10) – Marshawn Lynch, Fred Jackson & C.J. Spiller. What a trio for the ground game. The defense is pretty good, but the Bills offensive line and QB seem to be the obstacle that will hold them back from being a consistently disruptive force in the AFC East. Well, that and a myriad of other problems that won't seem to go away. Can you believe someone suggested trading for Matt Leinart? That's funny.

31. Cleveland (5-11) – The Browns may very well end up at the bottom of the barrel at the conclusion of the 2010 NFL season. When they acquired Jake Delhomme from Carolina, and then traded 3 picks in the draft away for RB Montario Hardesty, many like me were wondering what the hell they were thinking. It looks like it might have worked if you watched the pre-season. But now, with Hardesty gone for the season, the running game doesn't look as promising. Which means Delhomme will be counted on even more in the Brown offensive game plan. Ask Carolina how that worked a year ago with a top RB duo in the backfield.

32. St. Louis ( 1-15) – It's a brand new year in St. Louis, with a brand new QB. Unfortunately, it probably won't translate into any brand new changes in their power ranking position - unless Buffalo or Cleveland decide they really want/need that first pick more. If they could swing a deal with San Diego for Vincent Jackson, that would certainly make their offense less predictable and more dangerous.

Mac's Final Mock Outline for 2009 (Round One Only)

2009-04-25T14:20:00.000-04:00

1. DETROIT - Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia
The Lions should have waited till next year for the QB of the future and picked the top OT at this spot.

2. ST. LOUIS - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
The Rams fill the void created by the departure of Orlando Pace. It'll be Smith or Monroe.

3. KANSAS CITY - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
Kansas City has their QB of the future. Now they begin reinforcing the offensive line.

4. SEATTLE - Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
While many are thinking Crabtree or a QB, Seattle goes defense.

5. CLEVELAND - Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
Cleveland goes for the versatile D-lineman that can help stop the run and rush the passer.

6. CINCINNATI - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
Seems the Bengals enjoy drafting trouble. Hopefully Smith proves he's not the same 'ole same 'ole.

7. OAKLAND - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
If it's"business as usual" with Al Davis, then Crabtree goes to Oakland.

8. JACKSONVILLE - Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
I don't think the Jags need a new QB so much as a new head coach. Well, maybe both.

9 GREEN BAY - B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College
After all the allegations surround B.J., the Packers take him for the middle of their D.

10. SAN FRANCISCO - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi
The 49ers could go DE or OLB here, but Oher is too good to pass up.

11. BUFFALO - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas .
Orakpo's slight drop is the fortune of the Bills who get their much-needed DE.

12. DENVER - Everette Brown, DE, Florida St Jackson
After seeing Raji, Jackson and Orakpo taken early, the Broncos snag Brown.

13. WASHINGTON - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC
The Skins would prefer OT, but no value this far up the board.

14. NEW ORLEANS - Malcom Jenkins, CB, Ohio St.
The Saints need a top force in the secondary and Jenkins will be that force.

15. HOUSTON - Brian Cushing, OLB, USC
Teaming up with DeMeco Ryans should help secure the LB corps for a decade.

16. SAN DIEGO - Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi
Tempting as it is to go WR, the Chargers get the plug for their DLine.

17. NY JETS - Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State
I'm not very certain on this pick. Jets might opt to go WR instead.

18. DENVER - Clay Matthews, OLB, USC
The Broncos concentrate on defense in this draft.

19. TAMPA BAY - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
It's tough to defend Maclin slipping this far but defense is the trend in '09.

20. DETROIT - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
If the Lions go QB at #1, a Tackle seems a must at #20

21. PHILADELPHIA - Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
A little help for Westbrook and a great mentor for Moreno.

22. MINNESOTA - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St.
Pettigrew helps provide more options to whatever QB lines up behind center.

23. NEW ENGLAND - Darius Butler, CB, UConn
A near certain long-time defender in the Patriots secondary.

24. ATLANTA - Evander Hood, DT, Missouri
With Gonzalez now a Falcon, the top available DT is taken here.

25. MIAMI - Alex Mack, C, California
Needs for improving the running game outweigh a want for a nifty wideout, thus, the big reach.

26. BALTIMORE - Darius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
It comes down to a wideout or DE for this pick and DHB is way above the next DE.

27. INDIANAPOLIS - Donald Brown, RB, UConn
Perfectly suited for the needs of the Colt offense.

28.BUFFALO - Connor Barwin, OLB, Cincinnati
With no DT or OG available, the Bills reach a little but come up with a big stud in Barwin.

29. NY GIANTS - James Laurinitis, ILB, Ohio St.
GMen could use some additonal talent (and youth) for the LB corps.

30. TENNESSEE - Percy Harvin, WR, Florida
For the Titans, any receiver with speed is a near immediate upgrade to starter.

31. ARIZONA - Chris Wells, RB, Ohio St.
The Cards probably thought this pick would be Brown, but Beanie falls to 31.

32. PITTSBURGH - Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn St.
Does the local college star make it big in Steeler country? We'll soon see.

2009 NFL Mock Draft v8

2009-02-24T20:46:00.031-05:00

Now that the 2009 Indianapolis Combine is in the books, there has been a bit of movement in the overall rankings for those players looking to make it to the next level. Here now are my first round selections in the latest mock draft.

1. Detroit - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor - Safe pick but one with near certain productive longevity.

2. St. Louis - Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest - Great way to re-boot your defense and Curry seems to be the top prospect of the current linebacking crop.

3. Kansas City - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas - Too strong a presence to pass up and definitely worth a very slight reach. This guy was a man amongst boys at the combine and should start from day one.

4. Seattle - Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio St. - With plenty of wideouts available later, the Hawks get a guy who can play corner or fill the FS slot.

5. Cleveland - Brian Cushing, OLB, USC - A bit of a reach, but this guy is a monster and the Browns need monsters on a needy defense. Especially linebackers who can do well in space.

6. Cincinnati - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia -

Falling to number 6 is great news for the Bengals as their offensive line gets a much-needed shot in the arm.

7. Oakland - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech - It wasn't the question with the stress fracture, but rather playing the percentages with their respective ROI's (return on investment) for the previous six teams...thus leaving the Raiders with a great opportunity.

8. Jacksonville - B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College - Not good news for the rest of the AFC South as their running games will surely be tested with the addition of Raji.

9. Green Bay - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois - With both top DE's off the board, the Packers are left with little choice but to fill a big need at corner. Davis should evolve into a tremendous player with tutoring from Woodson.

10. San Francisco - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi - If the Niners don't try and trade up to get Curry, look for them to go with Oher. They're fine with the two QB's they have at present.

11. Buffalo - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC - The Bills need some help in the middle of their defense and Maualuga should help that along. If the Bills don't get a FA running back, they could tap Moreno here.

12. Denver - Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia - With no DT ranked above Moreno here, the Broncos add this super talent to the backfield and electrify the Mile High fans.

13. Washington - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama - It might end up being the steal of the draft with the slipping Smith coming to D.C. There's no doubt he has the potential to anchor the left side if he can keep the focus.

14. New Orleans - D.J. Moore, CB, Vanderbilt - It might be tempting at this point for the Saints to mull between Moore and Peria Jerry. The secondary needs the help more and it would be a fairly long reach for Jerry. Chris Wells is a possibility here too.

15. Houston - Aaron Maybin, OLB, Penn St. - It's a slight reach but the Texans really need to help strenghten the opposite side of the DLine and help out Mario Williams. Maybin's potential versatility makes it a near perfect fit.

16. San Diego - Chris Wells, RB, Ohio St. - It could be that the Chargers would rather reach past Wells and get Jerry at DT, but Wells is a powerful force that could help in short yardage running game.

17. NY Jets - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri - Great prospect that, if he actually falls this far, would be a great catch for the Jets. Maclin could help stretch defenses and open up the underneath for TE Keller or play-action to Jones and Washington. Could go Matt Stafford, James Laurinaitis or LeSean McCoy here as well.

18. Chicago - James Laurinaitis, ILB, Ohio St. - Typical Bears type player. Blue collar, hard hitting grunt that gets after people. I, personally, would snag LeSean McCoy here to team with Matt Forte.

19. Tampa Bay - Percy Harvin, WR, Florida - Local collegiate phenom plays in front of Florida fans for years to come and brings much needed boost to the Bucs passing (and return?) game. Bucs might opt to select Heyward-Bey instead of Harvin.

20. Detroit(from Dallas) - Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU - His ability to switch back and forth between DE and DT might lead the Lions to go with Jackson over Peria Jerry, who is strictly a DT. OLB Clay Matthews is also a possibility here.

21. Philadelphia - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St. - Coin flip here on whether Pettigrew will help or hinder the Eagles long-term. If he can put his off-field problems behind him then it will be a good selection, not to mention one of immense need for Philly. His zero TD catches in his Senior season has me a bit apprehensive.

22. Minnesota - Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland - A speedy, good-sized wideout that could help the Vikes move the ball downfield quickly. That is, IF they have someone that can get him the ball...which means they could select Stafford or Sanchez here instead.

23. New England - LeSean McCoy, RB, Pitt - With the amount of backs New England used in 2008, you'd think they would be fine at this position. But with the addition of this talented youngster, they now have veteran trade bait at the position.

24. Atlanta - Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi - The Falcons help bolster the middle of their defensive line with the nearby Mississippi collegiate prospect. They could opt to go with Alphonso Smith as Lawyer Milloy's days are done in Atlanta.

25. Miami - Alex Mack, C, California - Talented, smart and big for a center, this guy is definitely a Parcells prototype. The reach is very warranted here.

26. Baltimore - Clay Matthews, OLB, USC - The bloodline is there but when you're coming into Baltimore following the potential loss of Terrell Suggs and Ray Lewis, well....those are some big shoes to fill.

27. Indianapolis - Donald Brown, RB, UConn - Although there is no way to know for sure, the Colts wouldn't hesitate to target Alex Mack if Jeff Saturday is truly gone. Since Mack and Heyward-Beyboth are taken - and there are no DT's at this point - Donald Brown is the call. Could go with Alphonso Smith or Larry English here.

28. Philadelphia (from Carolina)- Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest - Shoring up the defensive back position is a top priority and Smith provides the Eagles with a sure-minded (dare I say cocky?) corner willing (and able) to cover the fastest wideouts in the league. He may struggle early but is sure to be one of the best when all is said and done.

29. NY Giants - Larry English, OLB, Northern Illinois - Perfect place at the perfect time for English, as the Giants need a 3-4 OLB. The Giants might decide to reach for WR Brian Robiskie here or go with OT Eben Britton.

30. Tennessee - Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina - The Titans need wideout help badly and Nicks might be a good start in Tennessee. His size may not be what the Titans are looking for, but his speed, good hands and route discipline are what they need. A reach for Kenny Britt might be possible.

31. Arizona - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona - The fact that Britton is from an in-state college should make the transition to pro football that much easier. It's not the biggest need for the Cards, but Britton is the best available here.

32. Pittsburgh - Sean Smith, CB, Utah - Although the Steeler front line is a priority, the ability and potential of Smith is extremely tempting. At 6-3 and running near 4.5speed, he could compliment the Steeler secondary extremely well. And Pittsburgh still has plenty of chances at a solid OT, C or OG.

2009 NFL Draft v7 ( Three Rounds )

2009-01-19T09:08:00.011-05:00

Three key issues will make this one of the most notable NFL drafts in quite some time:

1) The slew of new coaching hires that have taken place in the past few weeks will impact the decisions on the type of personnel selected in the '09 draft.

2) The above normal amount of talented free agent quarterbacks that will be available contrasted against the small amount of top-caliber collegiate signal callers that will be on the Big Board in April.

3) The high number of underclassmen that are listed ahead of senior players available could have been the highest ever, but even with the decision by many to stay put, it's still a pretty strong group.

It will be interesting to see if those current player rankings hold up through pro day workouts and the combine in Indianapolis.

With all that said, the first pick of the NFL draft in 2009 is a very interesting one in its own right. The moribund Lions have an opportunity to begin the rebuilding process following a precedent-setting winless season in Detroit.

They have a wealth of available talent to choose from with their two first round picks, but keep in mind the type of money they will have to shell out for those two picks.

Detroit - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech - I'm of the mind that the Lions can make a play for one of the many young free agent QB's that will be available this off-season especially considering that Stafford or Sanchez wouldn't be enough to turn the Lions around while dodging incoming pro defensive pass rushers. Upgrades on the offensive and defensive lines are needed, and that means draft picks are need.

With two picks in the first round, the Lions will have to bankroll both of those #1 signings - especially prior to the start of training camp - and also sign any potential free agent at QB. That's a big cap strain, so it might be enough to force the Lions to take Crabtree #1 and then trade him in order to gain more in later rounds. If not, the Lions will go with the safe pick at OT.

St. Louis - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia- The Rams need to bolster the line (among so many other things) and are awaiting word on who will lead this team in 2009 from the sidelines. Until the coaching philosophy is decided upon, I'll take the safe pick here as well. However, Michael Crabtree could be the selection although the Rams have so many needs on defense.

Kansas City - Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest - Much will depend on which direction the post-Peterson era GM will want this team to move in. Personally, I think Thigpen halts the need for an absolute 1st round QB selection (but maybe not another QB pick later in the day) and the Chiefs get an offensive tackle, pass rusher or LB, and they need all of those in this draft. The Chiefs defense has the makings of a young, up and coming force, and Curry could be one of new guys to help solidify that potential. Another OT pick wouldn't be stunning.

Seattle - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi - Once again, the decisions and direction of new coach - Mora Jr. - will determine the overall strategy of the Seahawk draft. There is no question the Hawks need to enhance their running game and it is imperative that a wideout is selected soon. The obvious pick is Crabtree, but the 'Hawks can't pass on a big talent like Oher.

Cleveland - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas. - If Wells isn't taken by this point, the Browns might try and steal him with their first pick. Otherwise the Browns go unconventional and will try and use Orakpo as an OLB/DE in their 3-4 in order to get more pressure on opposing QB's. He's the best available for this type of utilization, with more speed than either Laurinaitis or Maulauga. If Curry is still here at this pick, Aaron Curry will get the nod.

Cincinnati - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama - The Bengals begin the turnaround at the ground level on offensive line. Without better pass protection or run blocking, the Bengals offense cannot sustain drives and Carson Palmer on the sidelines with an injury does the Bengals no good at all.

Oakland - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor - The Black Hole fans anxiously await which direction Al Davis will want to move in for 2009. The most glaring need is the offensive line, which means he'll probably select Jeremy Maclin, Everette Brown or Malcom Jenkins.

Jacksonville - Everette Brown, DE, Florida - The Jags are looking for an OLB for their 3-4 defense, but how can you pass on such a disruptive force like Everette Brown. Could be utilized late for a trade that allows Jacksonville get a linebacker or wideout they need more.

Green Bay - Malcom Jenkins, CB, Ohio St - With the Packer defense floundering at critical times this season, Green Bay will start with either a pass rusher or pass defender. If Everette Brown is here, they'll go with him first.

San Francisco - Knowshown Moreno, RB, Georgia - There will be a ton of pressure on first-year headcoach Mike Singletary to draft Mark Sanchez or Matt Stafford at QB. He will politely refrain from doing so and begin instituting more of the running game. In this era, that means a tandem running back attack.

Buffalo - Percy Harvin, WR, Florida - The Bills need some offensive weapons and TE Pettigrew was my first choice a few months back. With Percy Harvin now declared, I think he can be a difference-maker and allow Buffalo to go TE in round two or three, while filling in their defensive needs at DE and LB. Harvin's speed can open up the underneath and middle routes for Evans and Reed, and if Hardy can pick it up in '09, the wideout position is set.

Denver - BJ Raji, DT, Boston College - With biggest needs at DT,CB,DE, OT and S - pretty much all over the defense, the Broncos could go in any direction. Hard to imagine their defense not being the prime focus for any new coach, so look for a DE or DT pick with the Broncos first selection. Of course with new coach Josh McDaniels aboard, the pick could go RB.

Washington - Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech - A tall, quick and disruptive force on the edge is just what the Skins need for their defense. The combine and pro day workouts will be very interesting to see if Johnson is the actual pick or if the Skins will have a chance at another big need: Offensive Left Tackle.

New Orleans - James Laurinitis, OLB, Ohio St. - The Saints need defensive personnel that make an immediate impact. DJ Moore is a possibility here, but with the re-signing of Vilma still up in the air, injured defensive lineman trying to heal and come back to play at a top level, this draft will make or break the chance for a Super Bowl run in the near-term.

Houston - Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi - This will be a very intersting pick if the draft falls as I have it laid out. Moreno and Wells still available, as well as two solid LB's and a couple of good wideouts to compliment Johnson. The Texans go with a serious need instead, tapping Peria Jerry.

San Diego - Rey Maualuga, ILB, USC - The Chargers defense gets a boost with the wildman from USC joining an already tough defense. With Merriman coming back from injury and help in the secondary in the latter rounds of the draft, San Diego can rely on the defense once again.

NY Jets - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri - Doubtful the Jets would go QB here unless Favre calls it quits (for real this time) and take a shot on a rookie. The Jets can use another offensive weapon like Heyward-Bey, Percy Harvin or Jeremy Maclin, but need help on defense too.

Chicago - Darius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland - For Chicago to help take the pressure off of its defense, the Bears need a top wideout. Whether it will ultimately be Kyle Orton or someone else, the QB is limited in being able to utilize the passing game. Having a guy like Bey will also add some years to the legs of Matt Forte.

Tampa Bay - Matt Stafford, QB, Georgia - The Bucs add a QB that will probably not start immediately, but will be given the task of being the future franchise QB. With new coach Raheem Morris and player personnel GM Mark Dominik now with the Bucs this pick could go in any direction.

Detroit(from Dallas) - William Beatty, OT, UConn - The Lions begin putting together the offensive line and may opt to select CB or LB here. One thing is certain and that is the Lions have options available by trading out of the first pick which will impact this selection even more.

Arizona - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona - Help along the offensive line is a top need, but there's also a chance the Cards go with Rey Maualuga, CB Vontae Davis or Center Max Unger.

Philadelphia - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St. - In a too-good-an-opportunity-to-pass-up pick, the Eagles add Brandon Pettigrew to the offense and hope he will be able to give McNabb (or whoever it will be at QB) a solid safety blanket.

Minnesota - Mark Sanchez, QB, USC - The Vikes could go in any direction here, but after seeing Tavaris Jackson crumble in the playoffs, I doubt Minnesota can afford to wait around any longer - though I think a QB in FA would be a better way to go. That said, Sanchez is available and if it weren't for the sizeable amount of FA quarterbacks in the off-season, he certainly could've been higher. Minnesota is "there" and on the threshold of going to a Super Bowl and might be looking at Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco as prime examples.

New England - LeSean McCoy, RB, Pitt - The Patriot running game isn't quite as effective as it has been in recent years, so they bring in someone to push Maroney, Morris and Jordan....one of which will be gone by the end of camp.

Atlanta - Fili Moala, DT, USC - Filling a need in the middle of the interior defensive line. The Falcons need help at CB too, but are much better off taking Moala here to help plug up the middle and allow the D-ends to tee off even more on opposing QB's.

Miami - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois - One of the weakest links remaining on the team, CB is addressed with a solid prospect from the Big Ten. At 6-0 and running a 4.42 unofficial 40, Davis has the size and speed to match up with some of the bigger, faster wideouts in the league.

Baltimore - D.J. Moore, CB, Vanderbilt - The Ravens need to start addressing their secondary and Moore is a perfect player for the Ravens. Considered the SEC's top cover corner, Moore could reinforce an already solid group of veterans in the Baltimore secondary. Moore can also return kicks.

Philadelphia (from Carolina) - Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest - Philly uses its second pick in the first round to address a need in the secondary. Smith is quick and fluid and should be a solid shot in the arm for the Eagles.

Indianapolis - Brian Cushing, OLB, USC - Not what the Colts need exactly, but a guy that - if available at that selection - cannot be passed. Indy needs a DT, WR and RB but will go with best available here no matter the position.

Pittsburgh - Max Unger, C, Oregon - Secondary help is needed but the Steelers will make a slight reach here for a much-needed offensive lineman and Unger is versatile. That versatility could allow the Steelers to move Olineman around for a better fit and utilize later draft picks in other areas.

NY Giants - Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn St. - If the Giants allow Plax to return then wideout becomes less of a burning need. However, if he isn't returning to the Gmen in '09, New York might be forced to reach a little here and select Kenny Britt from Rutgers. Assuming that won't be necessary, the Giants reach a bit for young DE Aaron Maybin.

Tennessee - Hakeem Nicks, WR, North Carolina - Tennessee can ill-afford to be without top targets downfield and get one in Nicks. The only knock on Nicks (?) is that he might not be the speedster necessary to break away from DB's and pick up extra yardage.

ROUND TWO (picks 33-65)

Detroit - Clint Sintim, LB, Virginia - For the Lions, defense is the name of the draft here on out.

St. Louis - Sean Smith, CB, Utah - St. Louis gets a steal in the second round with the big corner.

Kansas City - Paul Kruger, DE, Utah - The pass rush for KC has been lacking since the loss of their top sacker last year to free agency.

Cincinnati - Connor Barwin, DE, Cincinnati - Local college product now plays on Sunday.

Seattle - Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU - The depleted wideout position for the Seahawks gets some help.

Oakland - Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers - Risk/reward selection for the Raiders. Britt is a prospect and Al Davis can't refuse the temptation.

Cleveland - Shonne Green, RB, Iowa - The Browns look to amp up their running attack.

Jacksonville - Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma - The Jags offensive line gets a boost.

San Francisco - Troy Kropog, OT, Tulane - The 49ers get a solid, stout end to help along the offensive line.

Green Bay - Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU - Not the DE they were targeting, but the Packers take the best player available to fit a pressing need.

NE (from San Diego) - Larry English, OLB, Northern Illinois - With aging vets still holding down spots, English is added for the future.

Buffalo - Herman Johnson, OG, LSU - The Bills get a steal with this versatile lineman.

Miami (From Wash) - Mike Mickens, CB, Cincinatti - Fins add a quick, hard-hitting CB for depth.

NY Giants (from NO) - Clay Matthews, LB, USC - Beefing up the depth at linebacker with a son of a top NFL player.

Houston - Derek Peques, FS, Mississippi St. - Peques will help reinforce the Texan deep secondary.

Denver - Patrick Chung, SS, Oregon - Good size, strength and added depth for the Bronco secondary.

Chicago - Jonathan Luigs, C, Arkansas - Bears offensive line needs some work and Luigs adds depth as Kreutz is getting long in the tooth.

Arizona - Chris Wells, RB, Ohio St. - Wells injury prone reputation sends him down the Big Board for now - that could all change post-combine. For now, the Cards get a perfect compliment for Hightower.

Dallas - Victor Harris, CB, Virginia Tech - After the Pac Man blunder, the Cowboys retool with Harris coming to the Lone Star state.

Philadelphia - Jarius Byrd, CB, Oregon - Philly gets a speedy defender who can defend well and return kicks if needed.

Tampa Bay - Sen'Derrick Marks, DT, Auburn - The Bucs get a solid DT to shore up the defensive line.

NY Jets - Donald Brown, RB, UConn - Jets can't pass on a top area prospect with lots of upside

New England - Tyrone McKenzie, OLB, S. Florida - The Patriots reach a bit to take Tyrone McKenzie before another team latches on.

Minnesota - Evander Hood, DT, Missouri - Depth for the defensive line which will allow Allen, Edwards and Robinson to attack with yet more abandon at times.
Miami - Darry Beckwith, ILB, LSU - Miami continues to bolster a solid defensive group with more youth and physicality.

Atlanta - Michael Hamlin, SS, Clemson - The Dirty Birds add size, speed and a good tackler to the safety position.

Baltimore - Derrick Williams, WR, Penn St. - Productive wideout for the Nittany Lions gives Flacco another potential target.

Indianapolis - Ramses Barden, WR, CalPoly - The Colts reach a tad for a wideout they hope will transition into an immediate threat from anywhere on the field.

Pittsburgh - Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma - The Steelers can't pass on a huge Olineman which will help shore up their front five.

NY Giants - Jamon Meredith, OT, South Carolina - An offensive lineman to start the process of replacing the older veterans.

Carolina - Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas St. - Pending the decisions on Peppers and Gross, the Panthers will need talent at DE, DT and CB. But after Jake's meltdown in the playoffs, they get a future talent at QB here.

Tennessee - Keenan Lewis, CB, Oregon - Help needed in the secondary for the Titans and Lewis is a good-sized defender with speed.

ROUND THREE (picks 65-96)

Detroit - Alex MaGee, DT, Purdue - Can play anywhere along the DLine and has good speed for a big guy.

St. Louis - Jared Cook, TE, South Carolina - Trying to find another option for the Rams offensive attack.

Kansas City - Javon Ringer, RB, Michigan St. - Not the biggest need, but too good a talent to pass on.

Cincinnati - Marcus Freeman, OLB, Ohio St. - Another Buckeye rounding out the defense.

Seattle - Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee - Help for the middle of the D-line.

Oakland - Allen Asher, CB, Georgia - Oakland has a pretty good secondary but can always use more help.

Cleveland - Brian Robiskie, WR, Ohio St. - Good sized wideout that can relieve some pressure on Edwards, Winslow.

Jacksonville - Louis Delmas, FS, W. Michigan - Could be one of the diamonds in the rough for the third round.

San Francisco - Louis Murphy, WR, Florida - The 49ers add a WR to help stretch opposing defenses.

Green Bay - Mitch King, DE, Iowa - Packers get some much needed help for their pass rush.

San Diego - Trevor Canfield, G, Cincinatti - Big body that will allow Oakland to shape up their offensive line.

Washington - Kraig Urbik, OG, Wisconsin - The Skins add some help up front on offense.

New Orleans - Dominique Johnson, CB, Jackson St. - Big, lightning-quick corner is perfect match for Saints needs in the secondary.

Houston - Jarron Gilbert, DE, San Jose St. - Reinforcements along the defensive line is top priority for the Texans. Mario smiles broadly.

Denver - Cody Brown, OLB, UConn - Denver needs to beef up their 'backer strength.

Chicago - Brandon Williams, DE, Texas Tech - The Bears get a pass rusher later in the draft than anticipated, but he's a solid prospect.

Arizona - Scott McKillop, ILB, Pittsburgh - Excellent 3rd round pickup for the Cards.

Dallas - Vance Walker, DT, Georgia Tech - Remember those gaping holes on D against Baltimore?

Philadelphia - Fenuki Tupou, OT, Oregon - Big offensive lineman that Andy Reid is tickled to have at this point.

Tampa Bay - Coye Francies, CB, San Jose St. - The Buc secondary gets younger and faster.

NY Jets - Emanuel Cook, SS, So. Carolina - More depth added for the Jets secondary.

New England - Eric Wood, OG, Louisville - Patriots use the pick to increase depth on the offensive line.

Minnesota - Rashad Johnson, FS, Alabama - Secondary help is one of the areas the Vikes need to draft for depth.

Miami - Sherrod Martin, FS, Troy - Third defensive pick of the draft for the Dolphins.

Atlanta - Andy Levitre, OG, Oregon St. - The Falcons use this pick to find a future right guard.

Baltimore - Zack Follet, OLB, California - The linebacker position picks up a little youth.

Indianapolis - Ron Brace, DT, Boston College - The Colts finally get a presence in the middle of the defensive line.

Pittsburgh - DeAngelo Smith, CB, Cincinnati - Without a bevy of desperate needs, the Steelers go for depth at corner.

NY Giants - Ricky Jean-Francios, DT, LSU - A big plugger in the middle to rotate for depth on the D line.

Carolina - Dorell Scott, DT, Clemson - The defensive line needs some improvement and Scott could be a big boost up front.

Tennessee - Rhett Bomar, QB, Sam Houston St. - Coach Jeff Fisher wants backup in case VY fizzles and Collins can't repeat his '08 output.

2009 NFL Mock Draft v6

2009-01-09T13:36:00.008-05:00

This draft will be based on the expectation of Sam Bradford and Tim Tebow opting to remain in college another year.

Detroit - Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi - I'm of the mind that the Lions can make a play for one of the many young free agent QB's that will be available this off-season, that Stafford or Bradford wouldn't be enough to turn the Lions around while dodging incoming pro defensive pass rushers, and upgrades on the offensive and defensive lines would be the wisest move.

However, with two picks in the first round the Lions would have to bankroll both of those #1 signings - especially prior to the start of training camp - and also sign any potential free agent at QB. Though the Lions likely have enough cap space to do it, the most likely scenario would be for Detroit to try and trade out of this pick and move down to accumulate more picks. If not, the Lions will go with the safe pick and take Andre Smith of Alabama.

St. Louis - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia- The Rams need to bolster the line (among so many other things) and are awaiting word on who will lead this team in 2009 from the sidelines. Until the coaching philosophy is decided upon, I'll take the safe pick here as well. However, Michael Crabtree could be the selection although the Rams have so many needs on defense.

Kansas City - Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest - Much will depend on which direction the post-Peterson era GM will want this team to move in. Personally, I think Thigpen halts the need for an absolute 1st round QB selection (but maybe not another QB pick later in the day) and the Chiefs get an offensive tackle, pass rusher or LB, and they need all of those in this draft. The Chiefs defense has the makings of a young, up and coming force, and Curry could be one of new guys to help solidify that potential. Another OT pick wouldn't be stunning.

Seattle - Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech - Once again, the decisions and direction of new coach - Mora Jr. - will determine the overall strategy of the Seahawk draft. There is no question the Hawks need to enhance their running game and it is imperative that a wideout is selected soon. The obvious pick is Crabtree, but the Hawks could go running back with Wells or snatch Taylor Mays here if available.

Cleveland - Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas. - If Wells isn't taken by this point, the Browns might try and steal him with their first pick. Otherwise the Browns go unconventional and will try and use Orakpo as an OLB/DE in their 3-4 in order to get more pressure on opposing QB's. He's the best available for this type of utilization, with more speed than either Laurinaitis or Maulauga. If Curry is still here at this pick, Aaron Curry will get the nod.

Cincinnati - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama - The Bengals begin the turnaround at the ground level on offensive line. Without better pass protection or run blocking, the Bengals offense cannot sustain drives...and a repeatedly injured Carson Palmer on the sidelines does this team no good at all.

Oakland - Taylor Mays, S, USC - The Black Hole and Al Davis gobble up another potential Pro Bowler and suck the life out of him. You all know Al's penchant for athletic, hard-hitting secondary types, but this guy could be Jack Tatum reincarnate. Then again, Al may want Crabtree or Maclin. Who knows.

Jacksonville - Rey Maualuga, LB, USC - WIth Mike Peterson heading for the exits, the Jags need to regain an anchor at LB. Maualuga fits the bill. The Jags could decide Laurinitis is the better fit, or go with an OT or WR here.

Green Bay - Everette Brown, DE, Florida St. - With the Packer defense floundering at critical times this season, Green Bay will start a guy who could help the Packers put some sizzle in the pass rush while helping the run defense. Could decide to go CB Jenkins here instead.

San Francisco - Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida - Much will be determined by Mike Singletary now that he is head coach. One wonders if he'll focus on his defensive philosophy learned while part of the vaunted Bears Super Bowl defense of 1986, or whether he'll add some additional parts to the offense. I can't see Samurai Mike passing up a linebacker like Spikes.

Buffalo - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St. - The Bills need a big target that can also act as a safety valve for Edwards/Losman in the redzone AND make the needed blocks in short yardage/running game.

Denver - Malcom Jenkins, CB, Ohio St. - With needs at DE, DT, CB,S, LB, OT & RB - pretty much all over the defense - the Broncos could go in any direction. Hard to imagine their defense not being the prime focus for any new coach, so look for a DE or DT pick with the Broncos first selection. However, the secondary is a big issue as well and with Malcom Jenkins still on the board, he's the pick.

Washington - Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech - A tall, quick and disruptive force on the edge is just what the Skins need for their defense. The combine and pro day workouts will be very interesting to see if Johnson is the actual pick or if another DE might emerge.

New Orleans - Mark Herzlich, LB, Boston College - With Pierre Thomas showing he can run the rock, the name of the game in the Cresent City better be defense in the '09 draft. How about a huge, fast OLB to help out for starters? Would have gone Safety with Mays if still available here, or CB with Malcom Jenkins. Free agency moves in the off-season will impact this selection.

Houston - Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi - Other than LB,SS and maybe another DE, this is the biggest need facing the Texans in the off-season. Jerry should provide a huge clog in the center of the defensive line and help pull a little of the attention away from Mario Williams. A bookend DE would help too.

San Diego - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona - The Chargers could go OT, DT, DE, S or ILB with this pick, and with Rivers coming into his own, the franchise QB might try improving the pass protection with Duke Robinson or Eben Britton. But if Everette Brown is still here at this selection, the Chargers will almost be stealing and would take him first.

NY Jets - Brian Cushing, LB, USC - Doubtful the Jets would go QB here unless Favre calls it quits (for real this time) and take a shot on a rookie. The Jets can use another offensive weapon like Heyward-Bey, Percy Harvin or Jeremy Maclin, but need a presence in the middle.

Chicago - George Selvie, DE, South Florida - Toss-up here for me, as the Bears seriously need some help at wideout and a guy like Percy Harvin, Heyward-Bey or even Kenny Britt would be tremendously helpful . If not a wideout here, Chicago goes DE or OL. (Much of this will deend on the FA season and if McNab is plucked off of FA and given the gig in Chicago.

Tampa Bay - Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland - The Bucs add a weapon they desperately need on offense. If Bey doesn't "wow 'em" at the combines, then watch for Percy Harvin or Kenny Britt to go here.

Detroit(from Dallas) - Percy Harvin, WR, Florida - The Lions begin putting together an electric offense that will create frustration for opposing defenses. With CJ and Kevin Smith already deadly weapons, imagine putting a rocket like Harvin on the opposite side, with either Furrey or McDonald in the slot (trade the other one). Defense and another offensive linemen the rest of the way.

Arizona - Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma - If there's any doubt the Cardinals interior run blocking and running game in general needs a boost, just go back to the snowy game against New England. Forced to pass in a snowstorm, the Cards get blasted. Of course, the defense wasn't all that magnificent in that game either. However, Hightower and Arrington need some better blocking up front and get a solid boost with the additon of "The Duke". Chance for them to go CB or DE here as well.

Philadelphia - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona - Even if the Eagles dump McNabb and Coach Reid, the offensive line needs an upgrade - to say the least. Britton helps with that portion of the ballclub, but the Eagles could go TE with Jermaine Gresham.

Minnesota - Matt Stafford, QB. Georgia - The Vikes could go in any direction here, but after seeing Tavaris Jackson crumble in the playoffs, I doubt Minnesota can afford to wait around any longer - thought I think a QB in FA would be a better way to go. That said, if Stafford is available and if it weren't for the sizeable amount of FA quarterbacks in the off-season, he certainly could've been higer. Minnesota is "there" and on the threshold of going to a Super Bowl, and will be willing to risk trying with a young talent like Stafford IF they can't make a deal in free agency.

New England - Jermaine Gresham - I'm pretty sure CB and LB are higher on the "need" list, but Gresham might be too good a prospective weapon to pass up. Imagine Gresham in the lineup along with Moss and Welker, giving Brady ( or Cassel?) another option.

Atlanta - B.J. Raiji, DT, Boston College - Filling a need in the middle of the interior defensive line. The Falcons need help at CB too, but are much better off taking Raiji here and waiting till the next few rounds to add at CB. As a bonus, QB Matt Ryan is reunited with a former teammate at BC.

Miami - Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri If he's really, truly available at this particular position, I would be very surprised. But I have selected the players for this mock strictly by need and Maclin just didn't fit the top needs of the previous teams....but that also ignores the teams who pick best available at the time of their selection. So if he's not here, Miami may go with DJ Moore or Alphonso Smith at corner.

Baltimore - William Moore, FS, Missouri - The Ravens might try to go wideout here, but Moore might be the more imperative position to fill OR take one of the two corners mentioned above.

Philadelphia (from Carolina) - Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma St. - The Eagles get another big guy up front to bolster their offensive line and have coach Reid all giddy at the prospect of running the ball more. Could also select a TE Jermaine Gresham here.

Indianapolis - Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia - The Colts MUST get a DT to plug that middle defense which allows teams to gash Indy with the run. However, after the debacle in San Diego the Colts stun everyone and pick up a running back to pair up with Addai and/or Rhodes. OR, the Colts use this pick on DE Tyson Jackson and convert him to a hybrid DT with rotational depth capabilities at DE in case of injuries.

Pittsburgh - Herman Johnson, G, LSU - Secondary help is needed but the Steelers will make a slight reach here for a much-needed offensive lineman for their offense. Vontae Davis might be too good to pass on, so don't be surprised if he's the pick here.

NY Giants - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois - A Big, quick wideout to replace Plaxico would be a tremendous "get" for the G-men, so they could be lured into taking a chance on Kenny Britt. Otherwise the Giants get a top corner who rates highest on the big board at this time.

Tennessee - Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraksa - Big determining factor here will be the ability to re-sign Albert Haynesworth. If the Titans fail, they'll need a big body to replace him. If they retain Haynesworth with a multiple year contract, they probably opt to target defensive end or find a wideout.

Mock 2009 NFL Draft v4

2008-11-25T21:05:00.006-05:00

Round One

Note: The current records and the order of the mock draft presented conflict currently, and I am going to wait till the next version to rearrange the order of the picks. For now though, here are the picks in the order presented.

1. Detroit Lions (0-11) – Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
2. Cincinnati Bengals (1-9-1) – Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi
3. Kansas City Chiefs (1-10) – Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
4. St. Louis Rams (2-9) – Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
5. Oakland Raiders (3-8) – Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
6. Seattle Seahawks (2-9) – William Moore, FS, Missouri
7. San Francisco 49ers (3-8) – Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
8. Cleveland Browns (4-7) – Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State
9. Houston Texans (4-7) – Michael Jenkins, CB, Ohio St.
10.New Orleans Saints (6-5) – Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
11. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-7) – Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida St.
12. San Diego Chargers (4-7) – Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama
13. Green Bay Packers (5-6) – Everette Brown, DE, FSU
14. Denver Broncos (6-5) – Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
15. Minnesota Vikings (6-5) – James Laurinitis, LB, Ohio St.
16. Buffalo Bills (6-5) – Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St.
17. Miami Dolphins (6-5) – Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
18. New York Jets (8-3) – Rey Maualuga, LB, USC
19. Chicago Bears (6-5) – George Selvie, DE, South Florida
20. DETROIT(0-11) from Dallas - Eben Britton, OT, Arizona
21. Baltimore Ravens (7-4) – Percy Harvin, WR, Florida
22. Atlanta Falcons (6-3) – Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi
23. Arizona Cardinals (7-4) – Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma St.
24. Philadelphia (5-5-1) – Myron Rolle, SS, FSU
25. New England Patriots (7-4) – Brian Cushing, LB, USC
26. Indianapolis Colts (7-4) - DeMarcus Granger, DT, Oklahoma
27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-3) – Fili Moala, DT, USC
28. Washington Redskins (7-4) – Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
29. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3) – Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi
30. Philadelphia (from 8-3 Carolina) – Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma
31. Tennessee Titans (10-1) – Matt Shaughnessy, DE, Wisconsin
32. New York Giants (10-1) – Clint Sintim, LB, Virginia

BoilerMacR's 2009 NFL Mock Draft v3

2008-11-11T10:04:00.009-05:00

1. Detroit Lions (0-9) – Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech

Yes, I know....the Lions have picked WR time and time again, and they have a bunch of other needs. But before thinking this is some big joke, hear me out. And no, it's no joke. :)

I am predicting Michael Crabtree will end up as the overall #1 - no matter who is selecting number one in the draft. What's more, it doesn't mean Detroit ultimately keeps him, but my bet is Crabtree goes #1 to the Lions if they have the first pick.

Lest one forgets, the Lions also have an additional first round selection from the Cowboys, so they can ultimately get Crabtree & a top offensive tackle in round one.

Or, the Lions could select Crabtree with the 1st pick and trade down to add more picks in later rounds from a team (like the Seahawks, Bears or Vikings) who are desperately in need of a game-changer at wideout.

2. Cincinnati Bengals (1-8) – Andre Smith, OT, Alabama

3. Kansas City Chiefs (2-7) – Chris Wells, RB, Ohio State

4. St. Louis Rams (2-7) – Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi

5. Oakland Raiders (2-7) – Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia

6. Seattle Seahawks (2-7) – Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio State

7. San Francisco 49ers (2-7) – Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech

8. Cleveland Browns (3-6) – Javon Ringer, RB, Michigan St.

9. Houston Texans (3-6) – Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest

10.New Orleans Saints (4-5) – Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest

11. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-5) – Taylor Mays, S, USC

12. San Diego Chargers (4-5) – Everette Brown, DE, FSU

13. Green Bay Packers (4-5) – William Moore, FS, Missouri

14. Denver Broncos (5-4) – James Laurinitis, LB, Ohio St.

15. Minnesota Vikings (5-4) – Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St.

16. Buffalo Bills (5-4) – George Selvie, DE, South Florida

17. Miami Dolphins (5-4) – Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida

18. New York Jets (6-3) – Rey Maualuga, LB, USC

19. Chicago Bears (5-4) – Eben Britton, OT, Arizona

20. DETROIT(0-9) from Dallas - Jason Smith, OT, Baylor

21.Baltimore Ravens (6-3) – Brian Cushing, LB, USC

22. Atlanta Falcons (6-3) – Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri

23. Arizona Cardinals (6-3) – Terrence Cody, DT, Alabama

24. Philadelphia (5-4) – Myron Rolle, SS, FSU

25. New England Patriots (6-3) – Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois

26. Indianapolis Colts (5-4) - Fili Moala, DT, USC

27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-3) –Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri

28. Washington Redskins (6-3) – Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas

29. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3) – Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma

30. Philadelphia (from 7-2 Carolina) – Jared Cook, TE, South Carolina

31. Tennessee Titans (9-0) – Ciron Black, OT, LSU

32. New York Giants (8-1) – Gerald McRath, LB, Southern Mississippi

BoilerMacR's 2009 NFL Mock Draft v2

2008-10-06T20:08:00.001-04:00

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.

BoilerMacR's NFL Power Rankings - Week Five

2008-10-06T14:20:00.001-04:00

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.
1
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

2008-10-06T14:18:00.003-04:00

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.

BoilerMacR's NFL Power Rankings - Week Three

2008-09-22T21:29:00.002-04:00

It looked like collegiate football at times yesterday. Single wing formations, direct snaps, trick plays and plenty of stunning upsets. Yet, it was the NFL on one of the more zany Sundays in quite awhile. One thing is for certain as we head into week four, and that is there is a feeling I get that the landscape is shifting.

The formidable powers the past few years are nursing injuries and trying to plug holes, while the younger teams are zipping right by them. Right now it appears that the NFC East is the class of the entire league and everyone else is trying to file in right behind them until lightning strikes.
With that, here are my Week Three NFL Power Rankings, with changes galore. Including at the top.

1.(2) Dallas (3-0) - On the road and against one of the more talented young teams in the NFL, the Cowboys finally powered up in the 2nd half and crushed Green Bay. One of the weapons was heretofore unknown Miles Austin, 3rd wide receiver from tiny Monmouth in New Jersey. He came out of nowhere to give the Packers secondary fits while they were busy keeping tabs on Terrell Owens.

Felix Jones had another game where his impact was felt, and Marion "The Barbarian" Barber was crunching through the Packers all night. Best team in the NFL right now, but like I've said from the beginning of pre-season - if they don't go to the Super Bowl, it's a complete failure of a season.

2.(3) NY Giants (3-0) - Remarkable game that almost left the defending champs with some seriously reddened and embarassed faces from allowing winless Cincinatti to come to town and sneak out a victory. But Eli Manning and the Giant offense responded each time the Bengals scored, and Manning's pass deep into Bengal terrority to Amani Toomer in overtime set up the game winning field goal. The Giants are now 3-0 and hanging right with the Cowboys.

3.(10) Philadelphia (2-1) - The win vs state rival Pittsburgh might be a bit costly. McNabb and Westbrook both are banged up, with Brian the more serious of the two. If they both can be back in action again next week, then the Eagles will obviously be in better shape when they face the Bears in Chicago. The Eagles, Giants and Cowboys all have superb balance on both sides of the football, but with Westbrook and McNabb out of the picture or not 100%, the Redskins can fill the vacuum quickly.

4.(5) Tennessee (3-0) - Once again the Titans use a smothering defense and just enough offense to win. That INT by Cortland Finnegan sealed the deal for the Titans, who now find themselves up by 2 games on division rivals Indy and Jacksonville. Without their franchise QB too. Jeff Fisher must be wanting someone to pinch him. A very interesting game coming up next week as AP and the Minnesota Vikings come in for a visit.

5.(6) Buffalo (3-0) - Great comeback by the Bills after a horrible defensive lapse allowed Oakland to score and go up 23-14 late in the game. The BIlls didn't panic and came back after that 84-yard TD pass from Russell to Johnnie Lee Higgins, getting a Trent Edwards TD pass to Roscoe Parrish. Then they drove down into field goal terrority to give Rian Lindell the game-winning shot, which he drove through the uprights and 24-23 thriller. The Bills are now 3-0 and alone atop the AFC East. Up next is a road trip out west to face the St. Louis Rams.

6.(8) Baltimore (2-0) Joe Flacco isn't ready to go to the Pro Bowl yet, but he has been steady. His first career interception did lead to 7 points for Cleveland, but on this day the defense tormented the Browns all day long so it really didn't matter. The real test is coming next Monday night for Flacco as he makes his inaugural appearance on Monday Night Football. Don't think the Steelers won't be ready with a welcoming plan.

7.(9) Denver (3-0) - This team was on fire early in the game and we knew New Orleans isn't exactly a powerhouse on defense. However, someone forgot to tell Denver about Drew Brees. Or at least it seemed that way as they fought off Brees and the Saints to hold on for a 34-32 win. It marks another "hang-on-it's-gonna-be-a-close-one" victory to move them to a 3-0 overall record. But the Denver D needs some work.

8.(8) Green Bay (2-1) - Is it midnight yet, or was this just one of those games you knew had to happen to Aaron Rodgers eventually? The Packer secondary didn't look to hot against the Cowboys at times, yet managed to pick Romo a couple of times. Turning point of the game was after the long pass to Donald Driver, Packers trailing 13-6 and they had to settle for a FG. At home. Now the Packers return their focus on the NFC North as Minnesota is back on track and the Bears have a dangerous defense.

9. (1) Pittsburgh (2-1) - Big Ben looked like he had shoulder problems, while the entire offense seemed stuck in mud. While the Steeler defense kept it close the offense couldn't muster up enough points and even ended up giving a few away. The biggest question for the next week will be whether or not Big Ben can go against the Ravens on Monday night. Any takers say he won't?

10.(16) Washington (2-1)- A huge win for the Skins. Jason Campbell seems to be getting more and more comfortable in this offense and has his "safety-blanket" receiver in Santana Moss, who had an outstanding game. But the real difference today was the Skin defense who were challenged all game long and only allowed a few big plays to a team that thrives on multiple big plays each week.

11.(11) San Diego (0-2) - If the Bolts win on Monday night, they won't move up. If they lose, they fall waaaaaay down.

12.(21) Arizona (2-1) - This was the opportunity for the Cardinals show the league it was here and ready to assume the role of Super Bowl contender. The stage was set to come into hostile Redskin country, beat a top team from one of the two best conferences in the league and win. However, all the Cards did was allow opportunity after opportunity to slip away and Washington to pull out a victory that gave Arizona their first loss of the season.

13.(7) Carolina (2-1) - The Panthers laid an egg. It was almost the opposite of what happened to Minnesota last week, only with the Vikings down 10-0 early in this one. However, Carolina could not step on the throat of the Vikings to finish them off. Coach John Fox and the Panthers certainly won't enjoy film study tomorrow and then get ready for a fireball in the form of the Falcons from Atlanta.

14.(23) Tampa Bay (2-1) - Brian Griese had a very large measure of revenge against his former team, throwing for over 400 yards and overcoming 3 picks to lead his team to a 27-24 overtime when at Soldier Field in Chicago. The win keeps the Bucs in the hunt within the NFC South, which currently features a three-way tie for first among the Bucs, Carolina and, of all teams, the Falcons.

15.(22) Atlanta (2-1) - Matt Ryan and Michael Turner turned the heat up early on KC and never looked back. Ryan through an 80 yard bomb to Roddy White early in the 1st quarter, while Turner just bullied his way to a 3 TD performance. The defense did some good work as well, holding Larry Johnson down until they were up convincingly at 24-0. The Falcons are starting to gain some confidence and the NFC South is a complete free-for-all right now with three teams at 2-1 and the pre-season favorite Saints, 1-2. Next up for Atlanta is a rugged road game to Carolina.

16.(21) San Francisco (2-1) - Frisco is taking advantage of the big win over Seattle last week by knocking off another divisional opponent. The Lions never stood a chance, as J.T. O'Sullivan and Frank Gore had the offense clicking, while the defense came up with another solid peformance. We'll get the chance to see if the 49ers can keep the momentum going next week when they travel to the Big Easy and face the dangerous Saints.

17.(17) New Orleans (1-2) - Two weeks in a row, two close losses. This time it was some questionable play-calling that might have cost the Saints. Drew Brees was hitting on about any pass to anyone in a gold uniform. So with just over 2 minutes left, in Denver terrority and trailing by two points, coach Sean Payton decides to deploy the conservative play calling raft.....which promptly deflates on 3 consecutive running plays, including a 3rd and one handoff up the middle to Pierre Thomas that resulted in a 3 yard loss. That forced a Martin Gramatica field goal from around 45 or more, which he promptly sent wide right and left the Saints 1-2 on the season. If that wasn't bad enought, TE Jeremy Shockey is out with a groin injury for several weeks.

18.(12) Chicago (1-2) - For the entire first half the Bear offense basically went three and out. In the 2nd half, following a Kyle Orton QB sneak for a first down, the former Boilermaker hit nearly every pass en route to a 24-14 lead against division rival Tampa Bay. Matt Forte and the Bear defense were the main story, but Kyle Orton and Brandon Lloyd connected on some big plays to ignite the offense. Someone forgot to tell Brian Griese that this had all the makings of a "Bear" day. The defense played great most of the game, but the boneheaded personal foul penalty in OT sealed the Bears fate.

19.(4) New England (1-2) - Many predicted the Patriots were just "time" away from a loss. Sure, that's a pretty easy prediciton to make considering the large impact Tom Brady has made on that team the past few years. But really, did anyone think it would be Miami? At home? No....no one did. Nor could they imagine an absolute butt-whipping even if the Phish did happen to score an upset win. But it happened. The lone bright spot is the fact it is bye week and the Patriots have two weeks to prepare for a West coast trip to meet the 49ers.

20.(14) Jacksonville ( 1-2) - A very close call for the Jags who were precariously close to falling to 0-3. If it weren't for a rather questionable pass-interference call against a frozen Colts linebacker with under a minute to go, it would've been their third straight loss. As it is, the Jags get their first win of the year and travel back home to face the improved Houston Texans who feature a better run defense than Indy.

21.(13) Indianapolis (1-2) - This team is between a rock and a hard place. Offensive line injuries force massive shuffling and either protection or run blocking problems, or both. The defense has injuries that have reduced the overall depth and other bumps and bruises have affected other key players. Plus they can't tackle very well - which might be because they were on the field against Jacksonville for 41 minutes. And then there's Peyton Manning, who is still finishing off a 3-game pre-season run during the regular season and still is obviously not running at peak efficiency. They are fortunate to be 1-2, but until the entire team is healthy I'd say they're precariously close to leaving their fate in the hands of a wild card berth.

22.(18) NY Jets (1-1) - If the Jets win close on MNF, I will bump them up a few notches. If they do like Miami and blow the Chargers out, they jump up to #17. If they lose, they stick at #22.

23. (20) Houston (0-2) - Matt Schaub's least favorite team to play against causes nightmares again for the Texans. Tennessee pressure created bad passes, interceptions and other assorted problems. The Texans are probably still trying to re-focus in light of the circumstances surrounding hurricane Ike. They need to do it quickly as hurricane Jaguar is up next.

24.(25) Seattle (1-2) - No one was expecting this Seahawk team to put up 37 points (even on St. Louis) with all the injuries to the receiving corps and the question marks surrounding their running game. But the Rams really must suck that badly. Jerious Jones and T.J. Duckett made St. Louis look like a college team by racking up over 200 yards rushing and 3 TD's between the two of them. Meantime Matt Hasselbeck throws for over 170 yards and a touchdown - to a guy named Bumphus. No, seriously. He's a 5-11 rookie out of Washington St.

25.(26) Minnesota (1-2) - The Vikings, ahead 15-0 last week to the Colts, blew the lead and lost the game. This week, they spot Carolina a 10-0 lead and storm back for a 20-10 victory. It was a much needed win as there was much consternation among the faithful right after the Panthers went up by 10 in the first half. But Antoine Winfield's game changing sack and fumble recovery for a touchdown sparked the Vikings. Then Gus Frerotte played his normal steady game, passing for over 200 yards while letting the defense do the rest, giving Minnesota it's first win of the year. And not a moment too soon.

26.(27) Oakland (1-2) - Excruciating loss for the Raiders and Lane Kiffin. They battled and baffled the Bills all day long, and looked to have locked the game up on the 84-yard TD pass from Jamarcus Russell to Johnnie Lee Higgens. Perhaps that is exactly what happened - the Raiders thought it was over. Speaking of "over", I am wondering if it is that time now for Kiffen, or will Al let it drag out until the bye week. One thing is certain: the Raiders aren't too far away from being a playoff team if someone named Al would leave the coaching staff alone.

27.(31) Miami (1-2) - This team isn't a bottom-dwellar any longer. Not with that backfield and the emerging offensive line we witnessed against New England. Coach Sparano may have reinforced a new trend in the NFL with direct snaps to his running backs. The only problem I see with it is having a guy like Chad Pennington split wide right....no one is buying that for a moment. But it still worked. And now Chad and Chad have a backup QB in Ronnie Brown. Extremely impressive and important win for this franchise.

28.(24) Cleveland (0-3) - Can you say "Night-night" Cleveland? Okay, well maybe not "Night, night". Maybe just "Lights low" for right now. The entire Brown team seems extremely out of sync. The weather was fine and there were no excuses today - the Ravens just took it to them. This creates the dilema of pushing Brady Quinn in at QB to provide some sort of spark, because it is obvously the offense that cannot get untracked. Or should I say Derek Anderson cannot get ON track. His two pick 6 passes in the 3rd quarter blew the game open for Baltimore. They might catch a break as they face the Bengals next week, though it's on the road.

29.(30) Cincy(0-3) - Wow....talk about snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. It was good to see the effort put forth by the Bengals in this game, but moral victories can't count any longer as the season begins to slip away. Perhaps a victory in the Buckeye State Bowl next week will get things turned around. Riiiight. It's going to be a photo-finish as to what coach gets canned first this year. My guess is Marv is right behind Linehan and Edwards.

30.(31) Detroit (0-3)- All I want to know is how the hell is Matt Millen still a General Manager? That's all I want to know. Oh, and why was it Mike Martz was fired? Oh, and can I apply for the GM job? I guess maybe that's asking a little too much.

31.(29) St. Louis ( 0-3) - Just when you thought it couldn't get any uglier. When you allow T.J. Duckett to score on you - twice - you know you have work to do. Not that Duckett is a bad player. But he's about 43 years old isn't he? At any rate, the Rams are just a shade better than KC, so they would probably win the Show Me Bowl.

32.(27) Kansas City (0-3) - Sheesh KC....at least PRETEND to try and find a QB.....oh, I know, how about Daunte Culpepper? I heard he wasn't doing much these days. Herm? Your job is slowly slipping away, so what would it hurt to get in touch with Pep? It ain't like Thigpen is going to keep you in the hunt for at least a .500 season. The battle of pro football in Missouri continues

It's Bye Week Coming Up Next !

2008-09-21T21:34:00.003-04:00

And it couldn't come at a better time for the Indianapolis Colts, who lose their second game of the year (both at Loser Oil Stadium) to division rival Jacksonville, 23-21.

Usually Peyton Manning doesn't cost you a game. This time, he helped make it tough on anyone to think he didn't at least help. Some questionable throws led to two interceptions - one that went the other way for a Jax touchdown, and the other that probably cost the Colts a minimum of 3 points and control of the game when they already led 14-10.

But it wasn't just Manning. The defense could not tackle and continually whiffed on would-be tackles for loss of yardage, including one that saw Fred Taylor turn a certain 7 yard loss into a 34 yard gain into Colts terrority. It was not pretty.

That said, the veteran QB led the comeback and put the Colts in front 21-20 with a minute and 4 seconds to go. And after Adam Vinateiri kicked it out of the endzone, the Jags faced the daunting task of moving it into field goal range with just 56 seconds remaining. Which is where a poor pass interference call was made on linebacker Freddy Keiaho (who was basically frozen in place like so many Colt defenders all day) and had a receiver run into him while running the Jags pass route. THAT was flagged as interference and gave Jacksonville a first down after the Colts had seemingly stopped them on 4th and 3.

After that it was just a matter of how long the FG would be for Scoobey, who nailed a 45 yarder with lots of room to spare.

Indy has a bye week next week and hopefully it will give Manning and the offense some time to get adjusted and fine-tune their timing. The defense, meanwhile, can't fine-tune anything. They really can't stop the run and are facing more games without Bob Sanders. But the main problem is the lack of ability to stop the run consistently.

Following the bye week, the Colts travel to Houston for another division game - which is nearly a "must-win" as they find themselves trailing Tennessee by two games already in the AFC South.

Boilers Pull Sheet(s) Over CMU Eyes!

2008-09-21T12:16:00.004-04:00

Three games into the 2008 season, the Purdue Boilermaker football team has treated its fans to three home games, two wins and a double-overtime loss to a nationally ranked Oregon team. However, that 2-1 record and close call against the Ducks is a bit misleading.

With the exception of the Purdue defense and Kory Sheets, the rest has been fairly disappointing. Especially as it relates to senior quarterback Curtis Painter. The lack of production by Painter in critical moments over his previous two seasons has been the main knock on his game (by me and others) and he has lived up to that billing thus far.

Now to be fair, Painter is playing behind a more inexperienced offensive line than he has his first two years, and the receiving corps is made up of players who will eventually be pretty good, but are still feeling their way through the first few games. So he does have a bit of a handicap coming into the pre-conference schedule.

The biggest disappointment for me is his lack of inspirational leadership and "show 'em how to lead" attitude up to this point. A senior QB is looked upon to be the team leader and must show (as well as tell) the team to kick it in gear. He has failed to do that much of the past two games when it matters most.

Curtis Painter has a good, strong arm and throws some beautiful passes. But he didn't against Oregon when the Boilers needed it most, and took entirely too long to get started yesterday against the Chippewas. And if I were an NFL scout forced to choose right now between Curtis Painter and Central Michigan's Dan LeFevour it's not even a question that takes more than a couple of seconds to answer. Dan LeFevour, hands down.

So even though Painter has passed some legends on the all-time passing list for Purdue QB's, and is probably going to surpass Drew Brees as the all-time passing leader in Boilermaker football history, I'd venture to bet dollars to doughnuts that his stats against major competition is much worse. And that's the problem. Big games equal little production for Painter to this point, and don't think that isn't realized by NFL scouts, coaches and GM's.

So while Purdue fans were treated to an exciting game and a "W" yesterday, the long-term success for this season must be tempered with the knowledge that Curtis Painter - for a whole host of reasons - hasn't lived up to his billing in West Lafayette, to date.

Until that changes, the Boilermakers look like a possible opponent for Central Michigan in the Motor City Bowl, part deux.

Mac's NFL Power Rankings - Week Two

2008-09-18T18:32:00.007-04:00

Originally posted this over on http://www.drafttek.com/ and forgot to add it to my own blog on Monday night after the wild game between Dallas & Green Bay......so here it is.

Colts, Redskins, Panthers, Bills, 49ers & Packers all had thrilling comeback victories on Sunday. And the San Diego Chargers almost pulled off an incredible one as well. Then we were all treated to one of the most exciting and entertaining Monday Night Football games we've seen in awhile.

The season is off to a wild start, surely to get more wild yet. Here are my picks for the NFL Power Rankings at the end of Week Two.

1. (1) Pittsburgh - Not a pretty win, but any win is good and the Steelers did what they needed to do in blustery Cleveland Sunday night. Big Ben was supposed to be nursing a sore shoulder but came out firing early on, then Willie took over for most of the rest of the game. But the really awesome play was that 3rd and 4 from the Steeler 3 yard line when Big Ben zipped a pass out to Hines Ward near midfield to foil the Browns.
2.(4) Dallas - Not sure if any other team in the NFL can move the ball on the Cowboys like the Eagles, but the Cowboys didn't make the late, fatal mistake this time. It was probably the win the Cowboys needed to get the mental edge needed for the remainder of the season. Great offensive game but mistakes by Romo cost the Cowboys early. The defense stiffened in the second half, but if it wasn't for the McNabb fumble, this game may have gone to the Eagles.

3.(10) NY Giants - Eli Manning and the Giants looked the part of the better team in the middle of a true mismatch as they throttled the hapless Rams. St. Louis made it close at one point, for a few seconds... but the G-men are not off my radar as they look to repeat as Super Bowl champs.

4.(4) New England - The Patriots big goalline stand was the turning point of the game. And the effort by the defense helped Matt Cassel to keep his focus on sticking with the game plan and the clock running. The Patriots showed why they're a talented team that is still dangerous even without Brady. I stil think they're vulnerable against better teams, but
the playoffs are certainly probable. What a game it will be vs Buffalo.

5.(9) Tennessee - First time since 1999 ( just after the Oilers became the Titans - thanks Justin ! ) that Tennessee was 2-0 and in first place of their division. With a rugged defense and an offense that is functional with Collins in and Young out, the Titans are dangerous. Division game against Houston next, then we'll see how they handle the Vikings who choked away a victory to the Colts.

6.(11) Buffalo - The defense didn't have as great a game as last week, but were still tough. Meanwhile, the offense was clicking and has the chance to make this a special season. They cannot afford to look past Oakland this week and St. Louis the following week, and that mental discipline will be the test for this young up and coming team.

7.(3) Carolina - Down 17 with 8 minutes to go in the 3rd quarter, it looked like the Panthers were pretty much gone. But DelHomme and company rally to stun the Bears and find themselves all alone in first place of the NFC South. Not the greatest of performances for the Panthers, especially considering this was a home game. But a win is a win.

8.(5) Green Bay - Amazing performance by Aaron Rodgers as he continues to make Packer fans forget about the guy who used to run the offense. Three TD passes behind a great receiving effort by Greg Jennings. It's quite premature to begin carving out his bust for Canton, but props to him for rising to meet the challenge of following a legend and leading his team to win #2.

9.(19) Denver - When they hand out the "Big Brass Ones" award at the end of the year, you'll probably see Mike Shanahans name on the list - if not the actual award. (Ugh, no, I'm not sure if the award is a set of brass replicas - good question !) Down 1 with seconds left after scoring a TD, the Broncos opt to go for the 2 PAT and the win. Viola ! Two and oh, leading the AFC West with a wild win over their division foe. Donations to the Ed Hoculi Favorite Referee Fund should be pouring in from all over Bronco-land all week.

10.(8) Philadelphia - A great game by Brian Westbrook and Donovan McNabb, except for one single handoff that ended up on the carpet and ended a drive that could have broke it open for the Eagles. The rematch should be as good as this one. Meantime, the coaching staff probably is more than a little worried the secondary allowed so many big passing plays.

11.(7) San Diego - Ouch. Two questionable calls that should've been reversed led to Bronco touchdowns. Don't think they won't remember that on the Denver visit to San Diego. Meantime, the offense put up some big numbers with an ailing LT not at full-strength, and their defense clamped down on Denver much of the second half. Another come-from-behind masterpiece from the offense that came up just a little short.......well, actually, no it didn't if referee Ed Hochili hadn't made a seriously big goof. That said, refs aren't robots nor perfect...so every once in awhile it happens. Add this loss to the one last week vs Carolina and there is no reason for panic in San Diego as each game could've gone either way.

12.(12) Chicago - The Bears had Carolina dead to rights and nearly a first-place tie with the Packers in the NFC North. However, crucial turnovers and some questionable play-calling cost Chicago a game they should have won. If the Bears had a deep threat wideout they would have won.

13.(14) Indianapolis - It is nearly a replay of late last season for the Colts, with a team of walking wounded. Facing a 15-0 deficit in the 3rd quarter, all this team did was score 18 unanswered to stun the Vikings and the Metrodome crowd. It wasn't pretty, but any "W" is a good one. But the cupboards are really, really bare on the Indy depth charts, especially along the offensive line where three rookies tried to make the best of learning under fire. Though he's had bigger numbers in more important games, this might have been one of the most impressive games of Peyton Manning's career. And the Colt defense bent, bent, bent.... but never allowed a TD. Impressive.

14.(15) Jacksonville - This was a huge loss for the Jags. They had all the advantage one looks for in a big battle. The lead, playing at home and they had really started taking it to the Bills in the 2nd half. Suddenly, the roof caved in and the Jags walked away 0-2 while sliding to the cellar in the AFC South. Next week they can change all that when the travel to Indianapolis to play the banged up Colts.

15.(21) Arizona - Kurt Warner has the offense soaring, and this is in the midst of Anquan Bolin's continual demand for a trade. The defense is playing well and in the NFC West, the Cards have a chance to put some distance between themselves and the others early in the season. We'll see if they're for real as 'Zona has four tough games in a row coming up: At Washington, at the Jets, home to Buffalo and Dallas prior to a week 7 bye.

16.(18) Washington - This team will do their impression of a rollercoaster most of the year. Down 9 in the 4th quarter, young Jason Campbell and the Skins come back for a scintillating victory at home against the Saints. Next week they'll face another power offense when Arizona visits.

17.(6) New Orleans - This one hurt. Up by 9 in the 4th after Drew Brees engineered a scoring drive and Reggie Bush made a nifty punt return, the Saints were primed to go 2-0. But will someone tell Reggie Bush to keep his finger pointing to himself !? The last time he did that was in the NFC Championship - to Brian Ulracher. We all know how that game turned out. This Saints ballclub almost knocked off the Skins in their own building without one of the top wideouts in the game.

18.(22) NY Jets - This could get ugly real quick, as the Jets go from one powerhouse to another when they travel out west to face San Diego next Sunday. What happened to the rushing game that was supposed to have been much improved with the new adds to the offensive line? Three tries for a TD near the goalline and nada. For shame. Favre wasn't too bad, but did throw an ill-advised duck for an INT and the Jets opportunity to sit in a first place tie with Buffalo slips away.

19. (20) HOUSTON & 20.(23) BALTIMORE - I am freezing both ballclubs at #19 until after each team returns to action next week after HurricaneIke disrupted their schedules.

21.(26) San Francisco - Great job by the 49ers to never give up after being down 14 early and coming back for the win. And like Vinatieri with the Colts earlier in the day, Joe Nedney nailed the FG that gave his team the victory just a few minutes after missing one that could've given them a lead. Is there really a better linebacker in all of football that Patrick Willis? I mean RIGHT NOW, not in their prime in the past few years like Ray Lewis and Brian Ulracher. Willis is just pure joy to watch. Bravo to J.T. O'Sullivan for hanging in there and gutting out a win too.

22.(24) Atlanta - The early INT thrown by Matt Ryan probably rattled the rookie and threw him off his game the remainder of the first half. By that time, the Buc defense had control of the game. This young offense will ebb and flow all season. If Ryan can just stay mentally tough and ride out the rough patches this team has its franchise QB, a young and potent offense, and a budding defense.

23.(25) Tampa Bay - I still don't get the move to pull Jeff Garcia, but it turned out okay as Brian Griese managed the offense while Earnest Graham did the heavy lifting. And the Buc defense shut down the young, but soon-to-be potent Falcon offense. Tampa Bay will have to solve the simmering QB controversy in order to move on and battle in the AFC South.

24.(17) Cleveland - Poof. That was the sound of the talk about how the Browns would put an end to the dominance Pittsburgh has maintained over Cleveland for years now. I'll give them a slight mulligan (very, very slight) because of the nasty wind, but Pittsburgh played in it too. I did think the defense did better than expected, but the offense just stunk. Two home losses to the top two teams in the NFL. There's still time to re-group and strive for a playoff spot now that they have measured themselves against two top teams.

25.(16) Seattle - Great effort by the Hawks defense early while the offense tried to compensate for a loss of their top 4 wideouts. It almost worked, but too much J.T. O'Sullivan. I know - that sounds absurd doesn't it? Three turnovers made it all the more possible as Seattle is 0-2 for the first time in a long, long time.

26.(13) Minnesota - Not sure exactly what transpired in that game vs Indianapolis. All I know is that Minnesota was dominating on the ground and on defense, then started trying to make Tavaris Jackson imitiate Donovan McNabb. Why they didn't keep pounding the Colts with the combo of Peterson and Taylor is beyond me. All it did was spark the Colts and cause more problems for the Vikings. 0-2 and facing a must-win with an extremely tough Carolina Panther team coming to town, followed by a road game with a brutal Titan defense.

27.(28) Oakland - Wow. Take that Al Davis. Wanna get rid of the coach? Well, you can if you want...but after whipping a division foe on the road? Not likely. Lane Kiffin may not be the best at his craft, but who is at such a young age? The Raiders will continue to suffer until the old man is gone. Too bad the fans will have to shell out good money for naught until that time.

28.(31) Detroit - Down 20, up by 1, and then blown out of the building. I couldn't hit the buttons on my remote fast enough to keep up with that game so I had to switch to the Game Mix on DirecTV in order to try. Still couldn't do it. They looked like they were primed for a death clinch of Aaron Rodgers and the Pack, until Charles Woodsen made Jon Kitna look silly. One thing about the Lions, they don't go conservative when they grab the lead, so there's that to admire.

29.(32) St. Louis - Lots of work still to do, but at least the offense had a few moments and the defense made some plays. Congrats to Chris Long for his first sack as an NFL player. 0-2 and fighting for #1 draft position with the Chiefs, Dolphins and the Bengals. I'm keeping the two more potent offenses (or what used to be potent) out of the cellar for now.

30.(30) Cincy - Geez, can these guys even call themselves a professional football team any longer. I'm straining to justify not dumping them at the bottom...but Carson Palmer is better than that and so is the offense, but not much scoring again? Suggestion for next week fantasy players: Remove Carson Palmer from your lineup as he faces the New York Giants on the road.

31.(29) Miami - Well, the other Chad showed up for this game. He was the one the Jets released for Favre. He never really had a chance as the Cardinals jumped on Miami early and often. Chad Henne directed the lone Dolphin score who while the defense struggled through a penalty plagued effort.

32.(27) Kansas City - Back to the bottom for the Chiefs, who commited the ultimate cardinal sin of losing - at home - to a division foe. And the Raiders, no less. Huard was ineffective and Tyler Thigpen actually got the Chiefs to within 16-8. The Chiefs had an opportunity to force a tie after recovering an onside kick, but Thigpen tossed an INT and that basically sealed the fate of Kansas City. Look for Herm Edwards to get the pink slip sometime between now and the bye week.

Mac's Marquee NFL Picks - Week 3

2008-09-18T18:32:00.006-04:00

Thought I'd jot down a few thoughts on some very intriguing matchups coming our way in the NFL this weekend.

You know, It's rare that we see this many "critical" games early in an NFL season, but we have a boatload of them on tap for week 3. It is mainly due to all the injuries and surprise wins of the opening week which have left the league in sort of a free-for-all, waiting for the dust to settle. As we look down the list of potentially great matchups, here are some that stand out to me immediately:

Dallas (2-0) at Green Bay (2-0) - Clash of the Favre-like QB in Dallas vs the long-time Favre backup-turned-replacement in Green Bay. Two young powerhouse teams, both sides displaying a great defense and solid offense, depth and talented athelets that can match up against any team in the league. This one should be a great show (not as good as this past Monday night) unless Aaron Rodgers goes "bombs away" early in his first HUGE game of his career. And make no mistake, this game is HUGE.

Keys to the Game: Aaron Rodgers. Yes, he has a terrific supporting cast around him and he's risen to meet the challenge of a legacy, but this is really the first time he is EXPECTED to do well and against one of the premier teams in the league. It will be the first chance to see how he reacts under the pressure of a big game with meaning attached to a win or loss.

Pittsburgh (2-0) at Philadelphia (1-1) - Philadelphia is facing a MUST rebound game coming off the wrenching MNF loss to Dallas. What's more, they'll need to do it in front of the home crowd - for state bragging rights. Tough asignment, but it might be aided by the sore shoulder of Big Ben were it to limit his ability to hit his wideouts as a balance to Willie's running. The Steeler D matched up against the continually roving Westbrook will be interesting, and I'm curious as to any fallout from DeSean Jackson's ill-advise (and seriously premature) celebration. McNabb needs to have a clutch wideout he is absolutely confident about, and before Jackson's miscue I was starting to think it might be him. We'll see.

Keys to the Game: The Eagle secondary. If they allow Big Ben to torch them like Romo did, Philly's steak. I mean, like well-done.

New Orleans (1-1) at Denver (2-0) - The Saints defense might be a bit improved, but they let Jason Campbell torch them for scores last week enroute to a 321 yard passing performance, including 7 of 7 for 157 yards and the game clinching TD in the last 11 minutes. It was so Brees-like that I was starting to wonder if they'd traded jerseys. Jay Cutler must be salivating waiting to get on the field in Denver.

Not sure if New Orleans can keep pace in the scoring department, especially since Marques Colston is out. This could be Reggie's chance. Or more aerial assaults from Cutler to Marshall/Scheffler/Royal. Wow...I'm think New Orleans has no chance right about now.

Keys to the Game: The Saint offense will need to be at peak efficiency, because I'm doubtful their D can keep Denver's O down.

Carolina (2-0) at Minnesota (0-2) - While contemplating this game I was wondering why Brad Childress made the brash decision to go so hard after Tavaris Jackson, prop him up as "the guy" since late last year, and then discard him like a used paper cup at the first hint of a young QB trying to get a handle on the pro game. If Jackson can be benched for some inept play as a young QB. what should happen to a veteran coach who basically bet the farm on this young man, but now realizes it was probably folly. I'd say he should be terminated immediately.

But I digress.

All Minnesota has to worry about now is their quarterback, or at least that's the impression Childress has left us with... so there is no question that the problem in the first two games was Tavaris Jackson. Thus, that can be the biggest key to the game. If Minnesota loses this one, then another QB must be allowed to step in and try to right the ship. At least, that's what precedent Childress has established. Keys to the game: Gus Frerotte.

Jacksonville (0-2) at Indianapolis (1-1) - A more pivotal game to Jax at initial inspection, because they really can't afford to fall to 0-3 overall and 0-2 in the AFC South. That said, Indy can't afford to lose another game at home nor fall behind Tennessee by two whole games early in the season within the division. So the pressure is on both teams while they struggle through an injury-plagued first few weeks of 2008.

The key will be which offensive line can best set up the run and pass protect. Indy has struggled with Maurice Jones-Drew the past few games and without Bob Sanders, that may not change. If the Colts can somehow jump out to an early lead and force Garrard to throw more often early, then the Colts will have an advantage. The Colts offensive front line will be just as challenged with the Jags defensive front as they were with Chicago and Minnesota, so if Jeff Saturday suits up and plays, it will only help.

Keys to the game: The offensive that can create more sustained drives and protect the quarterback the best. Now even though Minnesota did that for most of 3 or more quarters last Sunday, the Colts still won. However, Jax has a better quarterback.

Arizona (2-0) at Washington (1-1) - In this matchup, we'll enjoy finding out about a variety of things. 1) Is Kurt Warner for real? 2) Is their passing game for real? 3) Is that Cardinal defense really THAT good? 4) Can the Cards finally beat a solid team on the road in a game that they know is a "proving ground" for taking the next step.

New Orleans won late in the game in 2006 enroute to their first ever NFC Championship game. This could be a similiar test for the Cards. Meantime, the Skins helped their own cause with the come-from-behind thriller against New Orleans last Sunday, and they need this home victory to keep pace with their counterparts in the NFC East

Keys to the Game: Washington's frontline Pressure on Kurt Warner. Look for some unusual blitz packages that try to cause havoc for the elderly statesman in the 'Zona backfield.

N.Y. Jets (1-1) at San Diego (0-2) - So Mangenious is criticized at his goalline playcalling for not allowing Sir Brett to take a shot in the endzone. Well, I agree. He should have had the guy try at least ONE. But for this game, don't expect Favre to come out firing. I would expect ( and suggest ) that the Jets get some return on the investment in that front line of theirs and have Leon Washington and Thomas Jones bang away at the SD defense for 3 quarters, then unleash Favre late in the game.

That's assuming, of course, that it's still close by then and that the Jets can keep SD from ringing up a TD every drive. But the Chargers have a tendency to come on strong late, while self-destructing early. If that happens, then the aforementioned plan may work. If not, and the Chargers get up early by two TD's, game is over because the Jet offense isn't set up for quick air strikes. That's because the front line is geared for the run.

Honestly though? I don't think the Jets have the slightest chance of staying close. But on any given day......

Keys to the Game: Jets must get out front early and establish the run game behind that gold-plated front line. It will be annoying for Favre to do so, but if they can run it early and sustain a lead, the Jets could pull it off by keeping the Charger offense away from the ball.

Should be a blast! There are other games that will be of interest as well, but those are my marquee picks for this week. Call it "Mac's Marquee Picks" if you will. And this weekend is anything like the first two weeks of the season, there are probably some of us that will need to add oxygen tanks and a defibrulator right next to the beverages and snack table.

Make sure to stop by www.drafttek.com and check out some great blogging going on by a number of team writers from around the NFL, plus try out the cool Drafttek Draft Simulator. It's awesome!

Purdue Blows Lead, Chance for Upset vs Ducks

2008-09-14T00:27:00.002-04:00

I went to the game expecting an Oregon rout in a driving thunderstorm. I was extremely surprised it was nice (though a little toasty) all game long. However, it turned into the typical Purdue coaching gem today. The Boilers, after a stunning TD run by Kory Sheets gave us an early 7-0 lead and the Ducks still trying to acclimate to the humidity, we were given gift after gift after gift in the first half. I mean, the only thing we weren't given by Oregon in the first half was a ribbon and bow on the gifts. 5 turnovers and we could only manage 10 points. Ridiculous. Just another example of poor coaching in my opinion.

Coach Tiller and his staff decided to punt instead of going for it on 4th and 1 near midfield. Great call, and with a 20-6 lead it was the prudent call. One problem Joe - your coaching staff should know better than NOT to tell the punter to kick it towards the corner of the endzone to pin them deep. Instead, you punted it directly to a dangerous kick returner and paid the price with a tie ballgame.

Leading 20-13 and trying to sustain a drive, you put Senior QB Curtis Painter out wide left and try to run a trick play with sophomore RB Justin Siller, who promptly loses it trying to flip it out on some ridiculous type of option toss.

FG kicker Chris Summers, kicking into the right to left wind in the South endzone twice earlier, set up on the left hash mark and drilled it through in that steady wind both times. So what do you do to set him up for the game-winning shot with seconds left, kicking into that same endzone and steady wind ? You run it to the right hash. Unbelievably horribe coaching ALL game long for Purdue.

Summers kick went up and then veered sharply to his left. Never had a chance, and the game moved to overtime.

The defensive coaching staff for Purdue didn't catch on -EVER - to the counter trap up the middle. Over and over and over the Ducks ran it with no one at the nose position or Mike to be waiting on it. Incredible. Give tons of props to the guys on the Purdue defense out there playing, coming up with big stop after big stop, only to watch the offense do nothing with it.
Speaking of the offense, huge congrats to Kory Sheets for an absolutely outstanding performance. Yeoman's work as what seemed like the ONLY back Purdue used all day.

However, that was off-set by the usually poor showing by Curtis Painter when it comes to tough competition. Pass after pass thrown low or off the mark, and to be fair, lots of good passes dropped. But for a senior QB who is supposed to be a Heisman candidate, this was an abysmal showing. It is why I laughed at the pre-season mention of him as a Heisman candidate.

You have to have done something, in my opinion, other than throw for 350+ yards against St. Lawerence of East Tupperware State College. I actually thought Painter was going to come of age the way he was running the ball when his wideouts were being covered. Why he decided not to do the same thing on many other opportunities (where there was lots of yardage available) is beyond me.

Again, Painter had some excellent throws dropped by his receiving corps. But many other times he was trying to force it into coverage and was picked twice. Other times, forcing it in, it was tipped or knocked away. It was vintage Painter in a game with a nationally ranked opponent, and when the opportunity came to put away the Ducks late in the 2nd he threw a pick. Again in the 2nd half, with a chance to extend the Purdue lead, he threw a pick.

In summary, the Purdue coaching staff blew an exceptionally great defensive effort, a big lead and a stellar day by their lone running back. I'm thinking the Motor City Bowl MIGHT be a possibility with some luck.

Mac's End of Week One NFL Power Rankings

2008-09-09T18:09:00.003-04:00

The opening weekend of the 2008 NFL season is complete and once everyone comes out of their foxholes on Wednesday, looking through the smoke and destruction, they will see an NFL that is very, very different than they're used to seeing. As it stands today, the AFC South, East & West, along with the NFC West and North that are all wide open affairs. Unusual teams sit atop the division alone, or with some company.

The NFC North could very well be a three team race and not just the two many were expecting. And in the NFC South, the Carolina Panthers join the Saints and Bucs as a teams to deal with, but the Atlanta Falcon running attack may just make for a very explosive offense that appears to be ready to cause a few problems.

Yes, it's all a-jumble early one, while we wait to see if injuries linger and how the braintrusts go about making the necessary adjustments to keep from going down 0-2 at the outset of a new season. Now in my power rankings, I always rank MOST of the winners ahead of losers during the first two or three weeks in order to be fair. After all, if New England loses to KC, no way at all you can drop the Pats, right?
However, since Brady is out for the year and they only beat the KC Chiefs, there might be justification for lowering their ranking. Or, on the other hand, it was pretty impressive to see Cassel come in for Brady and toss 2 TD's to hang a W in the column. It's a rule I like to follow early on, but not a rule completely set in stone.

So now that we face the possibility of a season without Brady, a rather skittish Peyton Manning or Carson Palmer, two rookie QB's who won their opener and the guy replacing a legend at Lambeau, here's a look at my Week Two NFL Power Rankings to see what teams moved up, down or stayed the same.

Current ranking of the teams are on the far left, last week's rankings are in parenthesis.

1. (6). Pittsburgh - They ripped one of the tougher defensive teams in the AFC and made it look easy. Willie Parker and the offensive line made quite a few folks eat some crow as well. With their stout defense and the offensive attack they displayed against the Texans in game one, this team moves to the top of the charts after week one.

2. (4.) Dallas - A mostly well-oiled machine in the season opener, with just a few hiccups. The Cowboys showed Cleveland just how far they have to go in order to be a factor in post-season play. This is just one game, but if they can stay healthy it looks as though they should have the chance to make amends for two consecutive years of disasterous playoff losses.

3. (10.) Carolina - Unbelievable, superb effort by the Panthers in a never-say-die manner by coming back to finally pull out a huge win - on the road, in San Diego - against the AFC team many have picked to go to the Super Bowl. Excellent defensive effort and the offense has a budding star in tight end Dante Rosario.

4. (2.) New England - Brady going down is a huge story and the Patriots will be handicapped without him. However, if Randy Moss is on the field - and on his game - it may not matter so long as the ball gets in his vicinity and New England can run the rock effectively. They escaped with a "W" against a weak KC team, so we'll find out just how effectively Matt Cassel can carry the responsibitly usually handled by Tom Brady.

5. (13.) Green Bay - Okay, I'm a believer - for right now. Aaron Rodgers has some chops. All the pressure in the world on #12 in a nationally televised Monday Night Football game against one of the NFL's top defensive teams. Oh yeah, he also would supposedly crumble trying to live up to the ghost of a living legend who is now a New York Jet. Didn't happen. The Packers looked pretty good on both sides of the ball vs the Vikings and sent a message to all the opponents on their 2008 schedule: Our goal is the Super Bowl. Wonderful "debut" for Rodgers and the Packers.

6. (8.). New Orleans - The Saints pulled out a thriller in the midst of a great effort by Drew Brees and Reggie Bush. The offensive line needs some harsh punishment for all the penalties and the defense still has some work to do if they want to go deep in the playoffs.

7. (1.) San Diego - It sure seemed to me like San Diego looked eerily similiar to the Indy Colts yesterday, only not as much of a walking wounded team. LT didn't look completely right. Antonio Gates was running his routes pretty carefully. And Shawn Merriman didn't really make his normal impact. So perhaps there are some lingering ailments yet to be completely remedied before the Chargers are back to their old selves. Right now, they're not the #1 NFL team.

8. (15.) Philadelphia - Donovan McNabb found his groove and he found it early. What great hope Eagles fans must have seeing the job done by Hank Baskett, Jason Avant and DeSean Jackson. But before the champagne is chilled for a division title victory celebration, it's good to keep in mind this was only the St. Louis Rams.

9. (11.) Tennessee - Having a veteran like Kevin Collins probably saved the day for the Titans - but what's the deal with Vince Young? Wierd. The defense on this Titan ballclub is simply stout. They played a solid game and showed why they are going to have something to say about who wins the AFC South title, and ultimately, the AFC playoffs. They find themselves in first place in the AFC South after week one. Kerry Collins has the helm for two to four weeks while Young heals.

10. (14.) NY Giants - They sure didn't look like they had lost 6 members of last year's championship team. Although it looked a little uneven at times, the Giants threw down the gauntlet stating they aren't relinquishing the crown easily.

11. (16.) Buffalo - Great overall effort by the Bills on opening day, topped off by wonderful trickeration on a field goal. But the story early is the potent offensive attack led by Trent Edwards and Marshawn Lynch, punctuated by a much more stout defense than Buffalo has had in many years.

12. (26.) Chicago - While the Bears faced a very rusty Peyton Manning and an unhealthy Colts ballclub, they dealt out some serious defensive punishment. Meanwhile rookie Matt Forte is everything the Bears could've hoped for in a rookie runningback. Kyle Orton did a solid job and made no mistakes, while keeping the threat of intermediate and occassional long passes alive just enough to keep the defense guessing. I'm not ready to elevate them into the top 10 just yet, but they let it be known they aren't the same team as a year ago.

13. (7.) Minnesota - Interesting performance from the team nearly everyone has tabbed as one of the teams to challenge for the NFC Championship. Tavaris Jackson was a bit of a Jeckyl and Hyde QB last night, but his receiving corps let too many passes drop onto the field. Adrian Peterson looked great and should have probably received more carries to the outside. The Vikings have a chance to bounce back with a matchup next vs Indianapolis - and they better, because the players talked a bunch of smack about how they were going to be a force in the league in 2008.

14. (3.) Indianapolis - 56 straight weeks atop the AFC South comes to a crashing halt in the debut regular season game at new Lucas Oil Stadium. Many Colts fans are wanting the Dome back. It was quite obvious the Colts have still have a rash of health problems. Manning is rusty, the offensive line injuries prompted a young, inexperienced set of lineman to face a ravaging Bears front seven and then they lost Dallas Clark in the 2nd quarter, then watched Joseph Addai go to the sidelines with a head injury. Meantime, the defense could not get off the field on 3rd downs. Until everyone gets healthy and Manning is 100% himself, the Colts are average at best, and that means the AFC South is wide open - for now.

15. (5.) Jacksonville - The Jags battled in a defensive struggle all day long but I kinda figured they'd have some trouble on the line after the shooting of Collier last week. However, Jack del Rio and the Jags can use no excuses for this team. 31 yards total rushing between Taylor and Jones-Drew? Seven allowed sacks on their QB? It was picked to be a Super Bowl contender, and when the starting QB for Tennessee went out with an injury in the 2nd half, it should have been "lights out". But it wasn't. Like Indy and New England, injuries have dealt a serious blow to this team early on.

16. (9.) Seattle - The coaching staff should be kicking themselves over allowing a guy to stealthily stand along the sidelines awaiting a surprise pass from the Buffalo holder on what seemed to be a regular field goal. This team has some serious problems and will need to guard against an 0-2 start next week against division rival San Francisco.

17. (12.) Cleveland - They found out quickly how outmatched they really are against the more powerfull teams in the NFL. This was an NFC team which is suppposed to be from the "lesser" conference. Not today. The Browns have some serious repair to do on that defense, while the offense needs Jamal Lewis at 100%.

18. (17.) Washington - Rough opening game and Jason Campbell has a long way to go in order to get that offense clicking. The defense played well most of the night and showed why the Skins will have to be reckoned with in the NFC East.

19. (21.) Denver - Eddie Royal has been quite a pleasant surprise for the Broncos and helped offset the loss of Brandon Marshall for the first game. Marshall, serving a one game suspension, watched as the rookie caught a TD pass from Jay Cutler on the opening series and ended up with most receiving yards of any Bronco in their first game - ever. it was all over but the shouting from that point on. Meantime, Mike Shanahan's running back factory keeps on moving right along. Selvin Young scored aTD, Michael Pittman added two more and Andre Hall had a 6.1 rushing average on 10 carries.

20. (19.) Houston - They ran into a buzzsaw in Pittsburgh, but didn't fold. They kept their heads up and kept punching, even though the Steelers had one of their better games in a long time. The Texans can take comfort in the fact that the top two division teams (Indy & Jacksonville) lost.

21. (20.) Arizona - The Cards get a leg up on the competition in the West division, slipping past San Francisco to grab the early lead in the division. Warner was effective and Arizona was helped by a couple of costly miscues by the 49ers. The Edge picked up another 100 yards while the 'Zona defense played well.

22. (23.) NY Jets - That game between the Jets and Dolphins was pretty fun to watch, and I felt as bad for Pennington as I would've felt for Brett had Chad ultimately brought the Fish back for the win. It certainly bodes well for New York that they start off with a win AND may not have to face Tom Brady next week in a division showdown.

23. (24.) Baltimore - Nice job by Joe Flacco in his first game, but it was against a Bungle defense, so he will no doubt have some rocky times coming up. That's assuming he still starts once Troy Smith is healthy again. As usual, the Raven defense makes it happen for this ballclub.

24. (31.) Atlanta - Matt Ryan got off to a simply stunning start, but credit this blowout to one Michael "Burner" Turner. So many teams are kicking themselves ( as well they should ) for not paying that man good money. Imagine the New Orleans Saints with Turner? Or the Bears. Or the Jets, etc., etc. The defensive effort for the Falcons was good too, and that combined with the running game made this look like a picnic for Matt Ryan's first game. It won't be that easy all season of course.

25. (18.) Tampa Bay - Pretty good defensive effort except for the first defensive series and the game-winning toss to Reggie Bush. Losing Derrick Brooks didn't help anything at all defensively. Hats off to Jeff Garcia for playing a gutsy game.

26. (25.) San Francisco - Well, Frank Gore looked pretty good at times, and O'Sullivan had spurts. But mistakes and the inability to put points on the board when they had the chance crippled the effort. The 49ers meet up with another division foe (Seattle) next week, which will put one of those two in an early 0-2 division hole.

27. (32.) Kansas City - Excellent effort to try and upend the Patriots in New England. Is it just me or did Dwayne Bowe seem to come to life after Brodie Croyle went down with an injury that took him out of the game? Maybe it was just me. And though Bernard Pollard's tackle of Tom Brady wasn't an attempt at injury, nothing good usually comes out of going after the leg of a QB from a prone position with a guy riding your back. But that's football.

28. (28.) Oakland - The Black Hole is a perfect name for not only the crowd in Oakland, but also what seemed to be in the hands of the Raider wide receivers in their home opener on Monday night. Jamarcus Russell did a pretty good job at the helm, but had countless passes dropped that could have impacted the game. Hopefully this won't effect his outlook on his job as a QB, and the wideouts will fare better in coming games. The defense for Oakland looked okay at times, but gave up way too much to a team without a significant veteran presence at wideout, running back or tight end. Oakland also needs to pray Darren McFadden's injury is not severe.

29. (29.) Miami - Gotta tip the hat to Chad Pennington and the Dolphins. They're trying to dig out of a 1-15 hole last season, have a young ballclub in many areas and are working to right the ship for the future. They battled throughout and had a chance to win on the last drive of the game, but Pennington's pass was off the mark and intercepted. Moral victories compare to grabbing that beer on the endtable, taking a swig, and realizing someone had just used it for an ashtray. ( Old college experiences seeping through with that analogy!)

30. (23.) Cincinnati - Horrible, horrible game for the Bengals. Now we all know why Ocho Johnson wanted out of Cincy so bad, and why Marv Lewis went back on his word to not re-sign Chris Henry. They need all the help they can get. Hey Marv - you need even more help that we all thought on defense, and Perry isn't the answer at running back.

31. (27.) Detroit - The Lions have only 15 more games to reach that 10 win mark that QB Jon Kitna's reiterated prior to this season. I do give him/them credit for not rolling over and giving up after they found themselves down 21-0 to a rookie QB starting his first game. Rod Marinelli, can you hear that ice cracking? Matt Millen? Oh, his job is safe.

32. (30) St. Louis - Yikes. That looked pretty bad Sunday. Two things on the bright side: 1) There's nowhere to go but up, and 2) They could end up with another top pick in next year's draft. Okay, maybe my description should've said something "a little less gloomy".

Colts Horrid In Season Opener

2008-09-07T23:40:00.004-04:00

All I know for sure is that the AFC is a little topsy-turvy after the opening weekend of play. Indy and SD lose at home, Brady is out at New England and Jacksonville gets popped by Tennessee, giving the Titans sole ownership of the AFC South - the first time in 56 straight weeks that the Indianapolis Colts were not in that position.

But as for the Colts specifically, I think all that is really needed to win the division title is for Peyton Manning and the offensive line to get some more game experience as a full unit. One must remember that Manning, having been out all summer until this first game against Chicago, is a demonic stickler for precision and preparation. Methinks he and the line have myriad aspects to work on in order to polish both those aspects of the Colts offense.

On defense, however, it's a whole other story. Any team the Colts face that has a solid running back will be licking its chops waiting for the Colts. Indy has a tremendously huge void at defensive tackle, and there isn't the depth nor talent level available to do much this season - save a new face coming into Indianapolis.

So that puts enormously unhealthy expectations on the linebackers - a corps that really isn't all that deep in my opinion - to help stop the run, and on Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis to get to the quarterback more often when they do attempt to pass. And obviously, the secondary can expect to face a stiffer workload now that they will have to come up and support the run defense even more than ordinary.

Don't look now, but here come the Minnesota Vikings, with Adrian Peterson, Chester Taylor and a beast of an offensive line that is most certainly anxious to get on the field at home vs the Colts to get the bad taste out of their mouth from the Monday night loss.

2008 NFL Season Begins !

2008-09-04T18:09:00.008-04:00

It's TIIIIIIIIME !!!! Thank goodness !

The NFL season kicks off tonight and not a moment too soon. I swear if I had to look at one more freakin' broadcast of poker or drag racing on television, I was gonna just flip out. I mean, once or twice a year for a change of pace, I can see tossing in a non-sport on a sports channel. But freakin poker ? Bowling? Badminton as an Olympic sport? Get the &$%# outta here.

So tonight it all begins. Washington and the Giants in New York, home of the defending Super Bowl champions. Can they repeat? I highly doubt it. Will the Redskins challenge for a title? Unlikely. But the division of NFC East is one of the better in the NFL and should provide some great games throughout the season.

So I have two items to present to football fans on this kickoff evening. One is the current power rankings of all 32 teams as I, your humble blogging nobody, see them at present. I will come back each Monday and present the newest version as the season goes along. Yes, I can understand how excited that makes each of you!

Second, I'd like to officially make my predictions on weekly games, division winners, playoffs and ultimately, the Super Bowl outcome. And we all know I will be so far off on most of the picks that I will look exactly like the well-paid, over-indulgent "professional pundits" who are on TV & radio, or in print ,blabbering on like they have an idea what will happen a few months from now.

So here goes.

Prediction on 2008 Division Winners:

NFC EAST
Dallas

NFC WEST
Arizona

NFC SOUTH
New Orleans

NFC NORTH
Minnesota

AFC EAST
New England

AFC WEST
San Diego

AFC SOUTH
Indianapolis

AFC NORTH
Pittsburgh

NFC Playoff Teams:
Dallas, Green Bay, New Orleans, Carolina, Philadelphia & Arizona

AFC Playoff Teams:
Indianapolis, New England, San Diego, Pittsburgh, Jacksonville & Buffalo

NFC Championship
New Orleans beats Dallas

AFC Championship
Indianapolis beats San Diego

SUPER BOWL
Indianapolis over New Orleans

And on kickoff night, here are my thoughts on the Power Rankings for all 32 NFL teams. I think I will call it: Mac's Weekly NFL Power Rankings..........I know........sooooooo clever ! Following the Power Rankings, I'll pick the winners for the opening weekend of NFL play.

1. San Diego - This team is ready to make their move, but the injury to Merriman (and his subsequent decision to go ahead and play) could prove costly. Shame on the GM and coach for not putting a stop to it. The Chargers are a deep team, but any lingering effects from injuries to LT and Rivers from last season will now come under greater scrutiny. But this team is primed. Only further serious injuries or a complete meltdown will keep this team from the AFC Championship.

2. New England - So long as the offense can score at will, their defense is not a concern. If the offense gets stopped it could be trouble. For the first time in years, they have a bit more competition within their own division.

3. Indianapolis - With veteran center Jeff Saturday out and rookies making up 2/5ths of the offensive line, the Colts will have to hope they play above expectations. Indy needs to run the ball more and control the clock in order to keep the defense off the field to stay healthy & fresh. This is a very young ballclub with the exception of Manning, Harrison and Saturday.

4. Dallas - It's put up or shut up time for the Cowboys. Anything less than a trip to the Super Bowl is a failure. They are what the Colts were pre-2006.

5. Jacksonville - Following the assault on Collier, the Jags hope to shake off the depression of knowing one of their own is hurting. Not the way you would hope to start a season, but if they persevere now and Collier gets better, it could provide the spark for a stellar season.

6. Pittsburgh - Could be one of the more explosive offensive teams they've had in years.

7. Minnesota - Getting the ball to Berrian or Rice while keeping the opponent guessing about Adrian Peterson. The Vikes will need a majority of their games to be error-free at QB and the passing game to be clicking. Their defense should provide the rest.

8. New Orleans - Some key losses to injury on defense causes concern, but this offense is potentially more potent than SD, New England or Indy. Wouldn't a Saints-Colts or Saints-Chargers Super Bowl be wild ?

9. Seattle - A fairly weak division gets a little tougher this go round for Seattle. Arizona is improved and the 49ers are dangerous, though probably inconsistent. Some injuries have caused some offensive hiccups heading into the season as Engram is out, Deion Branch is questionable and tackle Sean Locklear hasn't practiced. On defense Lofa Tatupu is a tossup for action vs Buffalo.

10. Carolina - This team is ready to make a run at the division title right now. The offense is the key in '08, with DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart & Jake Delhomme needing solid years. TE Rosario and WR Dwayne Jarrett are two big youngsters that could help take some defensive double-team pressure off Steve Smith. And the defense is solid.

11. Tennessee - Good, nasty, physical defense . If Vince Young and the offense can click, it could be a magical year for the Titans.

12. Cleveland - The question is "Can they do it again?" Or was it a one-year wonder, like New Orleans in 2006. The potential is there.

13. Green Bay - Many say the Favre-less Pack will be neck-in-neck with Minnesota for the division crown. I don't see it with Rodgers really in his "first" year as an NFL quarterback.

14. NY Giants - With Osi out for the year and Strahan retired, the dominant pass-rush attack might be non-existant. If so, that makes the ability of the offense to score - and score often - a prime concern. Five former starters now gone completely from last year's Super Bowl team. Out of respect for their championship defense, I start them out ahead of their division rivals.

15. Philadelphia - With a defense that looks more formidable than last year, it will all be up to the offense. The NFC East will be a slugfest.

16. Buffalo - Fans in Buffalo are stoked about the chance to battle for a wildcard playoff spot. Edwards needs to show he can lead them there.

17. Washington - Watch out for this ballclub, especially if Jim Zorn gets Campbell to catch fire. Dangerous corps of receivers and a running game. Playing in the tough NFC East is rough.

18. Tampa Bay - While the Bucs missed out on Favre, I've always thought Garcia was pretty good and underrated. But they still don't have that elite WR speedster.

19. Houston - This team was oh-so-close to their first above-500 season last year. If they can get out of the gate quickly, they might be a sleeper playoff team. No, really !

20. Arizona - Same for the Cardinals. The D in the desert is potentially deadly. Rattlesnake deadly. Now they need their offense to re-boot and Kurt Warner is hungry. Is anyone else?

21. Denver - Not quite ready to make a run at the Chargers this year, though they could sneak into the playoffs if the Browns,Titans and Texans stumble because they should whip Oakland and KC at home and on the road. If they don't, so long playoff chances.

22. NY Jets - If Favre gets the Jets to the playoffs, he may be voted into the Hall at the end of this season. And if he does, he should. But it's more likely the Jets would get there behind a super offensive line and a power running game. Not enough playoff spots to go 'round in the rugged AFC.

23. Cincinnati - Potential for an exciting season on offense, while the defense still remains in rebuilding mode. The Johnson trade was bizarre, and I don't think Perry is the answer. Even though Henry is an off-field problem, he is the main reason T.J. and Ocho Cinco are so deadly on the field. With the three of them, you can't concentrate on just one.

24. Baltimore - The Ravens were set with Troy Smith at QB before he became ill. Now that Flacco is leading the offense, one can only guess at how he may struggle. I had the Ravens higher with Troy Smith, but it's anyones guess now. Another key will be if the defense play healthy for 16 weeks.

25. San Francisco - Last year was supposed to be their breakout year, but injuries took their toll. If healthy, the 49ers could make it interesting. Well, it's already interesting since Smith is out and O'Sullivan is in at QB.

26. Chicago - This team has surprise written all over it IF the defense comes back strong and the O-line gives the QB time in the pocket. The backfield of Forte and Jones is potentially explosive, especially when Jones gets back to full-tilt! Their only problem is lack of a prolific wideout and a suspect offensive line.

27. Detroit - We've been expecting a playoff run for years out of this team. Kinda like expecting the Lion GM to be fired for years. Not sure if we'll see it this year. Either one.

28. Oakland - The Raiders will definitely get someones attention a time or two this year. Still need improvement along the offensive line and Russell will not be a QB to be worried about for another year or more.

29. Miami - This is not the almost completely winless team of a season ago. They're not a playoff team either. But the product on the field will most assuredly be better and create some excitement for Dolphin fans this season.

30. St. Louis - This team could be the team selecting #1 come next April. Should Stephen Jackson have a great year and Bulger remain healthy and productive, it could at least make for an even more competitive division. If not, I kinda feel bad for Howie's son.

31. Atlanta - Matt Ryan has been pretty solid in pre-season. With some good fortune, the Falcons may create some noise this season, though the playoffs are still a ways down the road.

32. Kansas City - Just too many gaping holes to fill for this team to deal with this year. Still in rebuilding mode, but Croyle better improve or he's gone. Speaking of gone, I figure this will be Herm's last one in KC.

NY over Washington
Atlanta stuns Detroit
Baltimore stops the Bengals
Philly too much for the Rams
Buffalo smacks Seattle
Tennesse slips by the Jags
Pittsburgh over Houston
New Orleans drops Tampa Bay
New England crushes KC
Miami upsets the Jets
Cleveland (Dawg)Pounds Dallas
SD clubs Carolina
'Zona rolls by SF
Indy edges the Bears
Minnesota packs Green Bay
The Broncos buck Oakland

FINALLY !

2008-08-31T12:32:00.006-04:00

The new football season kicked off in grand fashion yesterday afternoon and evening, and it was absolutely great to be able to watch football again! Some great games and great individual efforts put forth yesterday, along with a couple of early upsets to set the table for what should be a tremendously exciting collegiate football season.

Teams one through eight in most pre-season rankings pretty much rolled right over their opponents, with the exception being Missouri having to fight off a pesky Illini team that would not go away. But after that, three top twenty teams were the victims of early season shockers.
Clemson being manhandled by Alabama, Virginia Tech's loss to ECU and Pittsburgh inexplicable home-opener debacle against Bowling Green.

Outside of the top 25, it was another humbling loss in the Big House for the Wolverines, this time to Utah. Rich Rodriguez, welcom to Ann Arbor. What should be of concern to Michigan is that they were only able to put the ball in the endzone following turnovers by the Utes.

The other score, a field goal, were the only points for Michigan that wasn't preceded by a turnover. Meantime, Brian Johnson showed that he might be unknown outside of Salt Lake, but has some skills.

Meantime, I hope Dave Wannestadt has some thick earplugs the next few days to help blunt the loud yells for his head on a platter. And Clemson, though playing a tough Alabama ballclub, showed yet again it is not quite ready for prime time.

Some positive notes, quite a few players stood out for me. Cal running backs Jahved Best and Shane Vereen, while Cal QB Kevin Riley had a solid showing in his first start. Michigan St. sophomore wideout Dell and LB Greg Jones. Oregon has one of the quickest teams in the nation on both sides of the ball and used it to run down a young Huskie ballclub. But in a couple of years, look out for Washington. Their sophomore QB Jake Locker and fresman wideoutsdid a pretty good job against a tough Pac10 defensive opponent. And the Huskies have some young talent on defense as well.

Misourri's offense and defense took it right to Illinois for most of the game, but had lapses at times too. The injury to Maclin is disconcerting and he will hopefully be back in action soon. 6-6 tight end Coffman played out of his mind and have some NFL scouts drooling already. Chase Smith and counterpart Juice Williams showed why they are solid behind center, and I liked the play of Illini DB Marques Williams.

So while the season is now officially underway, there still needs to be a few games played before I go out and start making predicitons on who is #1 through #20. In fact, on Monday night, there's yet another college season opener on tap as UCLA takes on Tennessee, which should be a dandy as well.

Just around the corner after our collegiate Monday night treat is the beginning of the 2008 NFL season when the Redskins and the Giants tangle. I can't begin to tell you how great it is to have football back and I wore out my remote yesterday going back and forth through all the games.

Heck, I still have games to watch that I recorded but didn't get to watch yet, like the SoCal shellacking of Virginia. Glad I have Monday off ! Enjoy the holiday everyone.

Mac's NFL Power Rankings - 2008-09 Pre-Season Special

2008-08-23T17:32:00.003-04:00

Pre-Season Week Three - Mac's NFL Power Rankings

Each week I will be offering up my thoughts on just where the power resides in the NFL among the 32 participants, and how they stack up in terms of power. Early last year the Colts were #1 and stayed that way until their first loss of the season, at home, to rival New England. The Patriots held that spot until the very last game of the year, which they lost. Unfortunately for them, it happened to be in the Super Bowl.

This year, with a new season before us and many expectations throughout NFL fandom as high as they will be all season, it's time to lay out who I think will ultimately have the best shot at being in Tampa at the end of the 2008-09 season. It should be a great, competitive season with many a thrill, not to mention some nail-biting endings.

So for now, here are my rankings of each of the 32 teams in the NFL as we enter the 3rd week of pre-season. Only two weeks away from opening day.

1. San Diego - This team is ready to make their move. Only serious injuries or a complete meltdown will keep this team from the AFC Championship. Only injuries can keep this team from at least the AFC Championship Game.

2. New England - So long as the offense can score at will, their defense is not a concern. If the offense gets stopped there'll be trouble.

3. Indianapolis - Hard to say early. If Sanders, Freeney, Manning & Harrison are 100% and everyone stays healthy, look out!

4. Dallas - It's put up or shut up time for the Cowboys. Anything less than a trip to the Super Bowl is a failure. They are what the Colts were pre-2006.

5. Jacksonville - Allowing Stroud to leave was mind boggling. And if Garrard can't duplicate last season's precision, it could prove fatal. Their pre-season hasn't looked too good. But then, these games don't count.

6. Pittsburgh - Could be the spoiler in the title hopes of the other 3 AFC teams. If Big Ben is hot, the Steelers could be in Tampa in '09.

7. NY Giants - Benefit of the doubt, championship rings give the Giants an early top ten berth here. But they're still not dominant.

8. Seattle - I hate putting Seattle in the top 10, because they play in almost as weak a division as New England. But not quite. Their defense will need to be good with the offense losing Engram for the early part of the season and having some question marks at running back.

9. Minnesota - Everybody's darling darkhorse with AP in the backfield. The man with more pressure on him is Tavaris Jackson.

10. New Orleans - Edges out the Titans early in the season "on paper", but injuries to the defense might cause a rough start.

11. Tennessee - Good, nasty, physical defense and it looks like Vince Young is primed for a banner year. He better be if the Titans look to challenge in the AFC South.

12. Cleveland - The question is "Can they do it again?" Or was it a one-year wonder, like New Orleans in 2006. The potential is there.

13. Carolina - This team has a chance, defensively, to get it to the playoffs. The offense is the key in 2008.

14.Green Bay - Many say the Favre-less Pack will be neck-in-neck with Minnesota for the division crown. I don't see it with Rodgers really in his "first" year as an NFL quarterback.

15. Baltimore - The Ravens are set at QB with Troy Smith, so no excuses there. Can the defense play solid/healthy for 16 weeks is the real question.

16. Philadelphia - With a defense that looks more formidable than last year, it will all be up to the offense. The NFC East will be a slugfest.

17. Washington - Watch out for this ballclub, especially if Jim Zorn gets Campbell to catch fire. Dangerous corps of receivers and a running game.

18. Tampa Bay - While the Bucs missed out on Favre, I've always thought Garcia was pretty good. But they still don't have that elite WR speedster.

19. Houston - This team was oh-so-close to their first above-500 season last year. If they can get out of the gate quickly, they might be a sleeper playoff team. No, really !

20. Arizona - Same for the Cardinals. The D in the desert is potentially deadly. Rattlesnake deadly. Now they need their offense to re-boot.

21. Denver - Not quite ready to make a run at the Chargers this year, though they could sneak into the playoffs if the Browns,Titans and Texans stumble.

22. Buffalo - Fans in Buffalo are stoked about the chance to battle for a wildcard playoff spot. Edwards needs to show he can lead them there.

23. NY Jets - If Favre gets the Jets to the playoffs, he may be voted into the Hall at the end of this season. And if he does, he should. But it's more likely the Jets would get there behind a super offensive line and a power running game. Not enough playoff spots to go 'round in the rugged AFC.

24. Cincinnati - Potential for an exciting season on offense, while the defense still remains in rebuilding mode. Even though Henry is an off-field problem, he is the main reason T.J. and Ocho Cinco are so deadly on the field. With the three of them, you can't concentrate on just one.

25. San Francisco - Last year was supposed to be their breakout year, but injuries took their toll. If healthy, the 49ers could make it interesting.

26. Chicago - This team has surprise written all over it IF the defense comes back strong and the O-line gives the QB time in the pocket. The backfield is potentially explosive, especially when Jones gets back to full-tilt!

27. Detroit - We've been expecting a playoff run for years out of this team. Kinda like expecting the Lion GM to be fired for years. Not sure if we'll see it this year. Either one.

28. Oakland - The Raiders will definitely get someones attention a time or two this year. Still need improvement along the offensive line and Russell will not be a QB to be worried about for another year or more.

29. St. Louis - This team, with the Stephen Jackson holdout, could be the team selecting #1 come next April. I feel bad for Howie's son.

30. Atlanta - Matt Ryan has been pretty solid in pre-season. With some good fortune, the Falcons may create some noise this season.

31. Kansas City - Just too many gaping holes to fill for this team to deal with this year. Still in rebuilding mode, but Croyle better improve or he's gone.

32. Miami - I would fully expect the Dolphins to move a little by the end of the year. In fact, I think Bill Parcells will insist on it.

Version One - Very, Very Preliminary 2009 NFL Mock Draft

2008-08-22T14:56:00.005-04:00

With the regular season about to begin, but still some pre-season action to endure, I offer up my extremely early view on the 2009 NFL Draft. A draft which looks to be pretty heavy on lineman and defensive personnel with no clear cut, exceptionally talented quarterback causing the scouts to drool and consider moving up or trading away players at this point in time.

1. Miami - Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
2. Atlanta - Michael Other, OT, Ole MIss
3. Kansas City - Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
4. Oakland - Duke Robinson, OG, Oklahoma
5. San Francisco - Louis Murphy, WR, Florida
6. St. Louis - James Laurnitais, LB, Ohio St.
7. NY Jets - Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
8. Detroit - Malcom Jenkins, CB, Ohio St.
9. Houston - James Davis, RB, Clemson
10. Baltimore - Ray Maualuga, LB, USC
11. Denver - Chris Wells, RB, Ohio St.
12. Philadelphia (From Carolina) - Taylor Mays, S, USC
13. Cincinnati - Tyson Jackson, DT, LSU
14. Chicago - Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
15. Arizona - Fili Moala, DT, USC
16. Washington - George Selvie, DE, South Florida
17. Buffalo - Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St.
18. Philadelphia - Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma
19. Tennessee - Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
20. Tampa Bay - Domonique Johnson, CB, Jackson St.
21. Seattle - Alex Mack, C, California
22. Cleveland - LeSean McCoy, RB, Pitt
23. NY Giants - Ciron Black, OT, LSU
24.Pittsburgh - Herman Johnson, OG, LSU
25.Green Bay - Maurice Evans, DE, Penn St.
26.Jacksonville - Myron Rolle, S, FSU
27.Minnesota - William Moore, FS, Missouri
28. New England - Mike Mickens, CB, Cincinnati
29. Dallas - Brandon Spikes, ILB, Florida
30. San Diego - Aaron Curry, OLB, Wake Forest
31. New Orleans - Greg Hardy, DE, Mississippi
32. Indianapolis - Marko Mitchell, WR, Nevada

Summarizing a 5 month void

2008-08-17T13:36:00.006-04:00

Not sure how I managed it, but I lost my way back to this blog for nearly 6 months. Well, I guess it was because I was immersed in the NFL draft and the subsequent dissection of it over at drafttek.com - where I have spent an inordinant amount of time since signing on as the Indianapolis Colt correspondent.

That and the fact my Boilers lost and it takes time to recover from stinging losses like that one.

But I'm back now and ready to roll through further musings and observations. What I want to do before adding anything "new" for the upcoming football season, is to copy/paste some writing I have done over at drafttek.com in order to add some perpsective to what has happened since I last wrote.

In fact, today we are still cherishing one of the most magnificent performances in Olympic history as Michael Phelps broke the 1972 gold medal mark set by Mark Spitz during the Munich games, winning his 8th total gold medal after leading the U.S. team in the 4x100 relay. It was quite a showing the past 9 nine days and completely over-shadowed the "Redeem Team" basketball squad.

But allow me to recap some of the summer-long writings that I have penned since March. First off a re-cap of the 2008 NFL Draft for the Colts:

April

This was a substance draft for the Indianapolis Colts.

No glitz, no glamour, no WOW moment. Strictly bidness.

1) Three O-lineman, all capable of being Jeff Saturday's eventual replacement, but two potential starters right off the bat will end up at Guard. The O-line is now potentially secure for close to a decade, with possibly the exception of depth at Left Tackle. There's always the risk of injury or a contract mess down the road, but all in all, the O-line is near perfectly completed. Add this to the clever move up in last April's draft to get LOT Tony Ugoh, and you can now see how formidable this frontline could be for years to come.

2) Running Back depth targeted. I wonder why we allowed Chauncey Washington to slip by, but there is no doubt the Colts know running backs, so I'm ultimately not worried. Hart is a leader and has the moxy to fight continually for the extra yard AND HE CAN CATCH THE ROCK. As some other ColtPower poster noted in a 2008 Draft thread, we can sign a bundle of UDFA's for RB and probably find another potential starter. Ultimately, KK is gone I think.

3) Tight End Depth - Love the double TE selections of Tamme and Santi. I thought for awhile we were going to snag big Joey Haynos, but a good receiving TE and a good blocking TE gives us needed depth and flexibility. No doubt the Offensive Coordinator is pleased that he has some bodies to work with again.

4) WR - Wideout pickup late is most notable for what it doesn't say: Marvin's injury looks career ending. So that, at least initially, is a very good sign. Now we have "The Flying Frenchman" to utilize (potentially) as a kick/punt returner - and Lord knows we need one - as well as an understudy for either Marvin or Gonzo, or both. The beauty of the pick is that there is no IMMEDIATE pressure on him to perform as a wideout. He can learn the system and mesh into the fold. He's not a burner, but he's tough once he catches the ball and he's willing to go over the middle.

5) The LB corps was helped in depth with the addition of Philip Wheeler. No way is he an edge rusher, but definitely adds quality to LB rotation. His tackling is his strongest asset, but his ability vs the pass (as it relates to RB coverage) is questionable. This could translate into Special Teams standout and backup LB. No doubt Dungy and Meeks will shore up any weaknesses and he'll be another good overall fit. Barring injuries, the position is upgraded for the '08 season.

6) Many Colt fans have noted how our pass rush needed another phenom to help in case of injury or in general rotational depth. Marcus Howard answers the call and BP says he's "not Mathis, but he's LIKE Mathis"....which is cool by me. His weakness is tackling skill vs the run, but he is very quick when it comes to rushing the QB. Probably a niche player but brings needed depth to the DE rotation.

In general, I had hoped for an offense-heavy draft and that's really what we got. But it wasn't at the skill position, which is fine, because we certainly need those "big uglies" up front. The injuries along the O-line killed us last year, and with the off-season FA losses, made depth an immediately serious issue. No longer.

Defense had a depth issue at DE and we resolved that, but there is still a void to fill at DT. Perhaps UDFA's fill that void or we wait til next year. The LB corps and special teams were addressed with the Wheeler and Garcon picks, but the Colts will have to become much more productive on special teams if they want to stop the bleeding by giving up so much field position when they kick the ball away.

All in all it was certainly a solid draft and the coaching staff, BP and so forth will probably end up as genius yet again for the subtle, low-key picks that turn to gold.

#############

May 19th
Indy Awaits Word

The anticipation is palpable.

Occassional peeks out through tiny slivers of curtain can be seen in homes across the state. Hushed conversations are going on in nearly every corner of the state, be it at businesses, restaraunt dining tables, the local watering hole or around the family living room. Farmers have put away their implements, opting instead to nervously draining another cup of coffee.

The ticking of each agonizing second of this, a very mild Monday in May, can be heard as if it eminates from a gigantic kettle drum, perhaps 50 times larger than Purdue’s Worlds Largest Drum. Larry Bird’s presser on plans for the upcoming NBA draft go ignored. Larry-freakin-Bird ignored? In Indiana? Drivers at the Indy 500 noticed an unusual, even disturbing distraction from the usual fervor during qualifications this past weekend.

What is going on they wonder?

Simply put, the citizens of the great state of Indiana are anxious. They’re nervous. They’re also cautiously excited. Giddy almost. Yet wary. Once they were so close, yet fate handed them a dagger. This year the nerves are still there, but the lid is on the outward show of emotion as the clock continues to tick towards Tuesday.

All eyes and ears are straining to hear the first reports from Atlanta on that day.

Okay, perhaps I am over-stating it a bit. Maybe there aren’t any folks peeking out from behind closed curtains.And maybe it wasn’t quite as hushed downtown as I thought it was yesterday. And yeah, farmers always drink coffee after putting away the tractor, so that might have been a bit over-the-top. And okay, that ticking sound is actually from my wristwatch. Seems my head was laying on my wrist after falling asleep at my computer, thinking about what to write. But it IS mild here in Indiana today! 59 degrees a high for May?

But I digress.

Tuesday in Atlanta. It is the site of the annual NFL owners meeting and it IS definitely on the minds of many here in Indiana.You see, Indianapolis - and the citizens of Indiana - want to host the 2012 Super Bowl. Bad. Real bad. Almost as bad as getting another Super Bowl win. But tell ya what, why not “kill two birds with one stone”, ya know? If Indy can host the 2012 Super Bowl AND the Colts win it right here in our own backyard that very year (against the Cowboys !! ) everything from last year is forgiven. Deal?

By a vote of 17-15 last year, Indianapolis became the first NFL city in over 20 years that was building a brand new stadium, yet lost out in the bidding to host a Super Bowl. Seems Jerry Jones and an extra $23 million incentive gave Dallas a slight edge in last year’s bid. Thus, the city of Indianapolis is back at it again this year.

The city doesn’t have beaches, palm trees or enchanted mountain peeks in the distance. But not every NFL city can be so fortunate. And if the folks in the Motor City can play host to the biggest sporting event in the world, there is no doubt Indianapolis can do just as good a job, if not better.

And that is no slap at Motown either, who did a fantastic job the last time they hosted the Super Bowl. But in Indy, we host big events every year for hundreds of thousands when the Indy 500 starts up every May, and again in August when NASCAR comes to town for the Brickyard 400. And there are all those Final Fours and other top athletic events year ’round.
But this is a different animal altogether. We know.

Houston and Glendale are the other cities up for the bid nomination, and both have hosted a Super Bowl already. Glendale finished up their first one last year and did a wonderful job. Which leaves, in reality, Houston and Indy. Houston held their first a few years back. And after having come so close last year, one would think it’d a done deal really. Which is why the anxiety is sky-high. Restrained. Hair trigger ready for release. One columnist in the state commented that Indy is in the “pole position” for getting the bid. We’ll see. I hope so.

The city of Indianapolis and the citizens of the state deserve it. Think of all those years of residents forced to support the Cubs, the White Sox or the Reds in MLB. Or in the NFL rooting for the Bears, Packers or (gasp!) the Bengals when a professional team didn’t exist in Indy save the ABA Pacers.

Talk about coming a long way, baby ! (Apologies for ending this column with an obscure 1970’s cigarette ad reference) But then again, it’s rather aprapo for just where this city has come from, don’t you think? From obscurity to a world stage. How fitting it would be.

Have a great day all !

#########

May 20th

Indy It Is !

Well, just 24 hours since I last posted, and the 2012 Super Bowl host has been selected. Congratulations to the city of Indianapolis. Well deserved by the entire citizenry of both the city and state, who have long supported this team (and others) who have not exactly racked up W’s and playoff appearances until more recent years.

It took a surprising 4 rounds of voting, but Indianapolis was the winner of what was perhaps to be their final attempt for hosting a Super Bowl. After all, if a brand new $750 million dollar stadium can’t bring a Super Bowl, I’m guessing not much else will.

There are also a couple of folks in the Indianapolis bid circle from the past that need to be recognized for initially getting Indianapolis to the precipice of actually being in a position for the bidding. Former Indy mayor Bart Peterson, who lost to current Mayor Greg Ballard in the last election. It was Mayor Peterson who initially ( and continually ) pushing and prodding the state to buy off on bringing a new stadium to Indianapolis, and thus, a chance at hosting the world’s premiere sporting event.

Another gentleman, attorney Fred Glass, was the head of the delegation to put together the first bid for an Indianapolis Super Bowl last year, only to fall two votes shy to Dallas. He is to be commended for building the original concept of the bid and having left in place a tremendous outline on how to come back a year later and bid again.

Mark Miles, this year’is bid leader, kept that hope and dream alive and ensured that the first failed bid came back as a solid foundation and helped to bring the city of Indianapolis the biggest event in the city’s history.

Current Mayor Greg Ballard has stated that Indy will put on a show to remember. I, for one, intend to be in the middle of the merriment in downtown Indianapolis that week in 2012 and witness in person what exactly he is talking about and to witness this potentially precedent-setting event.

Let’s now hope - not only for the sake of this wonderful opportunity for Indianapolis, but the entire football loving world - that the owners and NFLPA can reach common ground on a new collective bargaining agreeement, thereby removing the chance of a potential strike, or worse yet, a non-Super Bowl year.

Which would be the cruelest of ironies on what’s supposed to be the day Indy hosts their Super Bowl.

###########

July 21st

I Can Feel It In My Bones Now !

Just 5 more weeks and 3 days from today, at 7 p.m., it begins. A brand-spanking new season of pro football returns. Whew....it was getting dicey there for awhile, suffering through tennis and golf and NASCAR weekend after weekend. Nothing wrong with those sports if you're participating IN them, but they are NOT a television spectator sport. The biggest distraction from the doldrums of the off-season for me has been my beloved Chicago Cubs. If they pull off a world championship in the 100th year since their last, that could quite possibly eclipse the NFL for a week or two. Possibly.

In the meantime, training camps are slated to get underway (and have) and the fans will get their first look at rookies and newly acquired free agents that give hope to those teams looking from the outside in, trying desperately to find that final piece of the puzzle that will ingite a run to Super Bowl XXXXXGOLLIEGEE....or whatever roman numerals apply these days. (It's officially Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa).While the camps are a welcomed return of football action, and the Hall of Fame game between the Colts and Redskins will signal the new season, it's not quite a fix for the complete withdrawal.

But it's better than suffering through another episode of pool tournaments and truck driving in Alaska. And if you're a big fan of the Indianapolis Colts or Dallas Cowboys, you will get an extra treat by enjoying the new digs of a wonderful new stadium for the first time. That is worth a pre-season viist just to say you were there for the first game ever.

No wonder Brett Favre is climbing the walls to get back into uniform (any uniform apparently) and start playing the game he loves again. Okay, there's my gratuitous mention of Brett and a not-so-subtle jab at his not-so-subtle change of heart about playing (again) in the NFL. And while much of the focus nationwide is on the NFL, many like me are also a huge fans of collegiate football. After all, it's mainly where future NFL stars make their name and cause the fans to start drooling, hoping one day that star is in uniform for their favorite team.

Before ever seeing an NFL game in person, I was fortunate to have gone to several college games as a youngster. My first ever was in 1969. Yes, that's right, I'm that freakin old ! It was a top national matchup between Stanford and Purdue in West Lafayette, Indiana. A beautifully sunny Saturday afternoon in October, with the sounds of the 5th Dimension's "Aquarius" blaring on the car radios as we drove into the throng of tailgaters awaiting what turned out to be an unforgettable shoot-out between two highly talented quarterbacks. Jim Plunkett for the Cardinal, and Mike Phipps for the Boilermakers.

In the end, Phipps led the hometeam to a thrilling 36-35 victory and made an indelible mark on this youngster for life. Football was AWESOME, and being in the stadium to hear the roar of the crowds, smell the aroma from wafts of cigar smoke, taking part in the pre-game tailgating and enjoying the rich sounds of the bands. It was, and still is, a truly a remarkable atmosphere for a young boy to experience foootball for the first time.

So while the NFL kicks off it's 2008-09 season officially on Thursday, September 4th, at 7 p.m. with the Redskins traveling to Gotham to take on the defending Super Bowl champion Giants of New York, there are some compelling early games to start with in August on the college gridiron. Consider the opening television game on CBS, August 23rd at 7 p.m., featuring Fort Valley State at Valdosta State. Ugh,.......ahem,....wait a second. Don't consider that one.

Okay, here are a couple a few days later (August 28th) that are sure to provide some drama: North Carolina State at South Carolina ( 7p.m. on ESPN) and Oregon at Stanford ( 8 p.m. on ESPN 2). Now those aren't too bad at all. But my personal favorite for most interesting early season game in college football will be the USC-Virginia game on the 30th of August, played at Virginia at 2:30 p.m. on ABC/ESPN. Can the Cavs upset the Trojans in Charlottesville while over 61,000 raucous fans pack Scott Stadium? It will be fun to watch them try.

Other interesting games on the 30th of August will feature Alabama at Clemson, Michigan State at Cal, Illinois vs Missouri and Washington at Oregon. So in the first week or so of college football, we're looking at almost a dozen games that feature conference matchups, state rivalries and unusual cross-country matchups.

And that first full NFL Sunday should be a treat to watch as well. Straight outta the shoot it's a division game between Tampa Bay and New Orleans in the NFC South, while the AFC South has Jacksonville traveling to Tennessee. Zona goes to San Francisco in an NFC West battle, while the revamped Jets take on the new-look Dolphins in Miami. And the two top matchups on opening Sunday in the NFL? At 4:15 p.m. it should be a wild one between the Dallas Cowboys and Cleveland Browns, with the Dawg Pound certain to be at maximum frenzy.

Then the late game features a rematch of Super Bowl Xtra Large 1, with the Chicago Bears meeting up with the Colts in Indianapolis. And if that weren't enough to start us off right, Monday night has another double-header waiting with Minnesota and Green Bay tangling for an early advantage in the NFC North, while Oakland hosts the Denver Bronco's in an AFC West tilt.
I'm tellin' ya, it's still a month or more away, but I am ready to get this season started RIGHT NOW !!! It should be an extremely exciting and entertaining year in both collegiate football, and the National Football League.

As everybody's favorite attention deprived wide receiver would say: "Getch ya popcorn ready!" I bet you thought I meant Ocho Cinco at first, didn't you !?

July 22nd

Drew Brees Must Be in Shock(ey)

They’ve probably tried several times, for hours now, to try and remove (or at least soften) that extremely wide, toothy grin stretched across the face of Saint’s quarterback Drew Brees. After announcing the impending trade for Jeremy Shockey, only coach Sean Payton could be happier than the former Purdue quarterback, who now has a bonafide #2 receiver that will not only give Brees a huge mid-range target, but also take away some of the double pressure applied to Marques Colston. So HE is smiling big today too.

New Orleans now, at least as it stands from first-look impression, immediately joins Indianapolis, San Diego and New England with what looks to be score-from-anywhere-at-anytime-capability, which bodes well for them in the defensive NFC South.

Imagine opposing defenes trying to determine just which weapon the Saints will be utilizing on any given play. A swing pass to Reggie Bush, Deuce off-tackle, Reggie with a interior-zone run, the post to Colston, crossing route to David Patten, or the crossing route from their newest acquisition, Jeremey Shockey.

Oh, and did I mention run and pass blocking? Yeah, well, Shockey does that pretty well too. And that makes Deuce and Reggie (as well as Stecker and Thomas) just as happy as the rest. What’s more, Brees will have an extra big-body slowing down oncoming defensive ends, and then Shockey can release off the DE and take the short dump pass and quickly advance the ball to the next level while linebackers and the secondary are dealing with Colston, Patten and Henderson.

And that doesn’t even count Robert Meachem and Adrian Arrington, two guys who could make the receiving corps one of the best in the league if they come through this season. Mark my words, Arrington will prove to be a significant addition to the Saints this year.

But with Jeremey Shockey, the Saints can now afford to utilize the run more often, which enables them to control the clock and keep their defense rested. Something they could not do last year enough times to help them stave off defeat in critical games. Of course, that 0-4 start put everyone behind the 8-ball to start with, but this year the balance this offense has could potentially give New Orleans the type of defense Indianapolis has enjoyed: Big leads that allow them to tee-off and rush the quarterback. So add Sedrick Ellis and Jonathan Vilma to the list of happy campers!

Now all of this is extremely premature and obviously completely dependant upon how Shockey works and gets along with the team. But from all indications thus far, he’s just as excited to be going to a team that wants him as much as he wanted to be on a team that needed his skill set. And believe, Drew Brees will find him…..again, and again, and again. Ask one Antonio Gates of San Diego.

The Saints were already my pick to win their division, but the addition to Shockey gives me reason to pencil in New Orleans as one half of the NFC Championship duo that will meet to see who advances to the Super Bowl in Tampa in 2009.
I know we’re along way off from that right now, but this move just added even more excitement to the NFL season, and half the training camps aren’t even completed yet !

July 28th
The Brett Favre Saga

My fellow correspondent Michael Schottey had a wonderful article on his thoughts as to why Brett should have left well enough alone. And I completely agree. Brett shouldn’t have unretired. But Thompson should have given him his release. Even though I think what is going on in Green Bay’s front office right now is absolutely ridiculous, it didn’t have to be that way. Brett shouldn’t have come back, but he did. And the Packers were ridiculous for ending it right there, one way or the other.

As GM, ( STOP LAUGHING !! ) I would have made one of two VERY QUICK decisions:
1) Brett Favre is back as our starting QB and we’ll allow him to be here through the remainder of his contract. If he decides to retire and then un-retire after next season, he will be release - and I’ve talked with him about this and he is in total agreement. END OF STORY.

Or…..

2) I would quickly give him his desired relase. ( STOP LAUGHING ! ) You see, I’d betcha dollars to doughnuts he would NOT lead the Vikes (or Bears, or Bucs or Jets or anyone else) over the Pack for a division title or playoff victory.

Think about it.

If Favre was allowed his release, would Minnesota REALLY snap him up? I don’t think so. Why would they want a larger circus coming to them than the one currently being played out in Green Bay? And imagine how long it would take him to “win” those players over, understand the offense well enough to play full-time and have the offense gel into the potential that already exists in Minnesota.

The Bears? Even worse. Favre can’t carry that team as they have no wideouts and the line is being rebuilt. The Bears only addressed their horrible running game in the draft this past April, after wasting time trying to see if Cedric Benson could carry the load ONLY AFTER unloading their most productive RB in years - Thomas Jones.

IF the Bears had a solid offensive line and a solid back that could carry the load, not to mention at least ONE wideout of consistent quality, then yes, he might have a good shot at running them to the playoffs. But with the aforementioned disaster on offense already holding that team back for the past two years, you can easily see why either Rex Grossman or Kyle Orton are NOT the reason the Bears stink. It’s their front office. Grossman hasn’t helped, but the QB is the scapegoat in the Windy City.
But I digress.

The GM had the opportunity to squelch this drama immediately with either a quick release, or an announcement that Favre is back as our #1 QB. If he had made Favre the number one, they would have lost Rodgers after this year. So what? What legendary performances has he accomplished?

That might seem cold, but hey, it’s a cold hard fact. If he’s THAT good, he’ll relish the opportunity to go somewhere and possibly start. If he’s THAT good, he’ll stick around knowing how good a group of players he will have in Green Bay once Brett decides it’s really time to hang it up.

So yes, Favre shouldn’t have come back but he did. But Thompson should have made a quick, total decision to either reinstate him as the starting QB or release him immediately.
Either way, the Packer GM has blown the entire thing and has turned it into what it is at present. A cluster !

August

8/04/08

Colt Trumps Colts in Hall of Fame Game

It was the unintended storyline of the pre-pre-season game in Canton, Ohio last night. Hawaii’s graduated gun-slinger, Colt Brennan, goes nearly perfect in an aerial assault against the Indianapolis Colts and helps the Redskins end a perfect weekend (for their fans) with a 30-16 victory over Indy.

Now let me be clear about one thing before I go on. Well, let me make it a few things.

#1) Mr. Campbell and Mr. Collins will still be 1-2 on the Skins QB depth chart. #2) He performed this feat against the 2nd and 3rd string units of the still-injury-recovering-and-suddenly-retiring-defensive tackles-at-age-23 Indy defense. (Quinn Pitcock, who was slated to be the starting DT for the Colts in just his second year, retired abruptly right before training camp) So let’s not get carried away with his two-touchdown performance.

But it was fun to watch his excitement and he did lay some nice tosses into the hands of his receivers. I’m happy for the kid, even if it was against my Colts and even if it wasn’t in a crucial moment of NFL history. And for Redskin fans, it certainly was a nice way to top-off a weekend of celebration as legendary Daryl Green and Art Monk get enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. And to add one more voice to the cresendo league-wide on the long awaited induction of Art Monk: It’s about damn time !

For the Colts, they have a backup QB duel heating up. No, Sorgi will still be the backup. But the battle for the #3 spot was on last night, and Quinn Gray came away the early leader in those sweepstakes.

While Sorgi was “protected” on the sidelines after his initial series of work, Gray led Indy to a couple of TD’s to put the Colts up by a 16-9 margin. The “hefty-lefty” came in and looked every bit as unsure of the Colts playbook as one would expect after just a week or so learning it. That he couldn’t move all over the field like Gray can is the main reason he failed, while Gray succeeded. That’s definitely going to be a consideration when it comes time to make the decision on who the #3 guy will be for the Colts.

The Indianapolis defense looked like it had it’s top two starters missing, but I did like the play of rookie DE Curtis Johnson of Clark-Atlanta, along with rookie Tight End Gijon Robinson from Missouri Western State.

Those two, along with rookie wideout Pierre Garcon of Mount Union and rookie RB Mike Hart of Michigan were the standouts for the Colts last night. I must also add that rookie offensive lineman Jamey Richards of Buffalo, who was playing Center and snapped the ball past the QB for a safety earlier in the game, came back and did some good work on the run blocks for his ballclub later in the game. Good work Jamey.

For Washington, I like the way Jason Campbell looked in his initial start. You can tell Zorn has worked with him on his footwork while going through his dropback. It looks comfortable and natural, which is sometimes not the case when changing up a guy who is used to doing things one way. I also must applaud the exception game by rookie Safety Chris Horton out of UCLA. The guy was everywhere and certainly planted himself into the “must watch closely” list in camp and the remainder of pre-season.

Rookie TE Fred Davis had some good plays as well for the Skins. Sure would’ve like to have seen wideouts Malcom Kelly and Devin Thomas in action. The more you look at that offense, the more you get to thinking that this team is going to be racking up some points pretty soon, and pretty consistently.

Finally, kudos to both coaches for a very low penalty count, no fisticuffs or serious injuries, though there was some good, solid hitting going on. I like how Zorn has implemented the passing offense from Seattle, but allowed Joe Bugel to keep the running game basically as it was prior to Zorn’s arrival. Good move.

Though just an early, non-critical pre-pre-season football game, I enjoyed it and am SUPER GLAD football is back on a television set in my living room! Finally! The Manning brothers were right during their television commercial - I miss football too !

######

8/7/08

Favre Lands a Jet,....or, Jets Land Favre

Well the trade has finally happened, although while the ink still dries there could be further (and stranger) things still to come. But considering for the moment that Brett Favre reports to the Jets and begins to lead this team into the 2008 campaign, how much of an impact will he make in terms of playoff contention?

On the immediate surface it is obvious that he is the better of the previous options at QB. With the Jets moving Pennington out and dropping Clemens to the backup, New York has a top veteran QB that can go toe to toe with any QB in the league. But now comes the hard part.
Three difficult parts to be precise.

#1) How quickly and how well can Brett Favre digest the new offense and wear it like a glove?

This will be the biggest element because the longer it takes him to get comfortable, the longer it will take the Jets to hold position among the AFC playoff teams that are already ahead of New York coming into this season. More on that a bit later.

#2) How comfortable will Brett be in this new environment and how quickly will he gel with his new teammates?

I tend to believe Brett can be a positive influence just about anywhere, in any locker room. The circumstances surrounding this new environment, however, are pretty bitter and are probably wearing on his nerves. Not New York, but just the leftover taste in his mouth from Green Bay and being forced out of town. So the danger now is for this feeling to continue lingering, dragging him down even further. Which is why it will be extremely critical for a solid bond to be established with his new offensive teammates. And soon.

#3) The schedule.

It ain’t gonna be easy, and it starts out tough right away. Let’s look at the first half which is the time one figures Brett will have the most struggle with as he learns the system and the capabilities of his new offensive weapons.

At Miami, home to New England, at San Diego, home to Arizona, BYE, home to the Bengals, at Oakland and then home to both Kansas City and Buffalo.
So that’s a game each against division opponents, with two of those games on the road. Which is good - because a home game gives a better chance for a “W” most times, and since the division games at home are later in the season, you would expect Favre & Co. to be firing on all cylinders by then.

But at any rate, the three division games ARE winnable, but doubtful against New England. The other games that will be an immediate test and impact the playoff race in the first half of the season for New York will be games wtih Cincinnati, KC, Oakland and San Diego.

Just a goofy sidethought I had at this point: If you think the media circus has been crazy the past month or so in the Brett Favre saga, just wait and see what would happen if by some miracle Brett leads the Jets to an early 4-0 record, with upsets over New England and San Diego. Not saying he will (and I believe it to be practically impossible) but if he DID, the media would be going bananas.

I think New England and San Diego are just too much, too early, for the Jets to handle - even with Brett Favre. But the Pats are coming to the Meadowlands, so there’s is that. And the games wtih the Bengals, KC and Oakland are still possible for New York to win. Again, it will come down to how well Favre and the offense have come together by that time.

The second half of the season doesn’t look AS daunting, but still provides challenges - especially on the road. Most notable are the games at New England, at Seattle and at Tennessee. They also have the third of four West Coast trips, this time against the 49ers, who have a very stout defense as well. Home games include St. Louis, Denver, Buffalo and the regular season closer against the Dolphins. So realistically, the Jets could have 3 wins out of 4 at home in the second half. Denver and Buffalo will be the toughtest of those four.

#4) The seriously tough AFC.

The playoff spots in the AFC are hard to come by and there are many teams with the talent to legitimately be in post-season play. Right off the top you have Indy, New England, San Diego and Pittsburgh as favorites for division winners. Then comes Jacksonville and possibly Cleveland. All six were playoff teams last year. This year, add in Baltimore, Cincinnati, Denver and the Jets, and you can see why each and every AFC game for New York will be critical this season. And they play three games against AFC playoff teams from a year ago ( New England - twice & San Diego) as well as three potential playoff teams ( Tennessee, Denver & Cincy) fighting for spots this year.

The biggest cause of concern in this regard? All of the aforementioned games against AFC opponents obviously have playoff implications. However, in the first half of the season for the Jets, they play seven games against AFC teams, as opposed to just 5 in the second half.

That gives Favre and the Jets very little room for error, and puts significantly more pressure on Favre and the offense to be ready to roll right out of the gate and be able to put points on the board. However, one thing Brett has is a potentially excellent offensive line and a solid running back. If the Jets can use that to their advantage and keep the “need” of a huge passing game to a minimum in the first half of the season, it would give Favre even more time to get the system down and become more proficient with it.

The only thing that jeopardizes a more conservative approach in those first five games is that four of the first five teams they face will be high-scoring offensive ballclubs, so unless the defense is extremely tough and can hold each of those teams in the low teens, it will be necessary for the offense to score a bunch of points.

To summarize, I think if the Jets and Favre can come away with a record of 5-3 in the first half of the season, they could be on their way to a wild card spot. If they’re 4-4 it’s still possible. Anything below that is not too probable, because even though the second half of the season isn’t quite as formidable, it’s not division 1-AA ball either.

If the Jets can go 4-4 or better in both halves, they have a shot. The most critical element in the Jets schedule is their ability to protect home turf. If they can manage to go 7-1 at home, they should be in the playoffs, because I believe they can win at least win one, if not two on the road.
Lots of room for possibility, lots of room for disaster. Should be quite a wild, fun ride for Jets fans (and Brett Favre fans) to witness in the upcoming season.

Certainly Favre helps make the Jets an immediate contender, with the caveat that he learns the system and gels enough/early enough with his new offensive teammates. That’s a all order for anyone. If he does lead them to a playoff spot, there is no doubt about the HOF resume of this QB.

###############

So now you're caught up on MOST of the stuff that has happened the past 6 months or so. Not included were my Chicago Cubs quest for a centennial celebration of a World Series title. (They are currently ahead of Milwaukee by 4 and a half games ! Also in baseball, the annual Colt World Series in Lafayette, Indiana just recently completed as McCallen, Texas blasted Puerto Rico 12-2 in the Championship game. But not before requiring a game ending tag out at the plate of the potential tying run by Hoosier North, giving McCallen a nail-biting 2-1 victory to advance.

I'll have my pre-season NFL thoughts and power rankings a little later, but for now, that's it.

Boiler's Season Comes To A Close

2008-03-23T19:50:00.002-04:00

Well, it's a day after a tough loss to Xavier before I can write about it. The young Boiler ballclub took it on the chin from a bigger, more veteran team yesterday in D.C., losing 75-68. But the potential of this squad in the future is unlimited. I'm just sad Terrence Crump won't be around to be a part of it. The lone Senior on the team had a fine tournament and was instrumental in getting the young players ready for battle throughout the year.

The biggest off-season issues for Purdue will be:

1) Get a physical, active and assertive big man presence in the middle. I don't think Calasan fits that bill unless he learns to square up before he shoots an offensive rebound instead of just tipping at it. AND, he's not a three-point shooter. Use that thinking when we're up by a large margin and the defense isn't expecting it. My hunch is that the last 10 3 point shots he took this year were key misses that helped the other team's rally.

But hitting the weights for the guys in the paint will be critical, and the same can be said for the others as well. I would imagine they all took note of Xavier and their strenght and physicality.

JaJuan will no doubt bulk up to get bigger and stronger. That is an absolute must. He showed what he could be like offensively, but we need him to be able to shut down the play inside the paint defensively with more than an occassional block. But I like the fact he was rockin' it at times in the 1st round win vs Baylor.

2) Stop slapping at the ball when your on defense. Not sure how many times the Boilers did it, but I know it was TOO MUCH! Everytime someone was beaten off the dribble, they'd slap at the ball as it was about to be shot. Not only did it help send key players to the bench with foul trouble, it uncannily led to multiple 3-point plays for Xavier that would nullify pretty good defensive play until then.

Part of that is the maturation of this young team, so it probably is to be expected early on. But I would have thought for as well as they had progressed (and as much experience in AAU ball ) throughout their career thus far, that it would have become steadily improved. Not so.

But this team has our hearts and enthusiasm. They've brought back optimism and enthusiasm back to the area during the dull days of winter. Four freshman, some sophomores and a junior will be back next season with a year more of experience and knowledge under their belts. It should be an exciting three seasons coming up.

Mackey Magic is back, but even more, dreams of that ellusive National Championship is once again alive for perhaps the first time in nearly a decade.

Colts Draft Picks in 2008?

2008-03-12T22:55:00.003-04:00

With the 2008 NFL Draft just six weeks or so away, time is winding down on evaluations on team Big Boards and strategies that will potential make or break the future of an organization.

The Indianapolis Colts, in the Bill Polian era, have done dramatically well. This year, however, there is a certain angst among fans due to the uncertainy of key players. Specifically, the long-term health and ability of defensive end Dwight Freeney, and future hall of fame receiver Marvin Harrison.

Add to that the departure of a top offensive lineman (Jake Scott) who signed with a division foe (Tennessee) this past week, the uncertainty in free agents like safety Matt Giordano, and the murky waters of the off-season do not seem to be getting any clearer.

Then the Colts watched TE Ben Utecht get an offer from the NY Jets, which depletes the reserve TE position to just one subsitute for starter Dallas Clark. With depth an issue there, at running back, defensive end and the offensive line, the problem of just six overall draft selections becomes more apparent. Not to mention critical.

Drafting late in the second round, the Colts could have plenty of solid prospects to choose from, but unlike years past, the money situation is bleak and the need for multiple, good picks is significant because of the aforementioned lack of depth dangers.

Potentially on the board at the Colts first pick in the late second round will be a top running back, top tight end and exceptionally good linebackers, a couple of solid wideouts,defensive ends and offensive linemen. Which do you go with if, for example, all were of "equal" value.

Bill Polian has shown he is up to the challenge in years past. Freeney, Bob Sanders and Dwight Clark are prime examples. Perhaps his least obvious, but highly successful picks, have been along the offensive line. Take the Tony Ugoh last year, or wideout Anthony Gonzales too. Antoine Bethea was a huge find in the latter rounds of that draft class. So you can always expect the unexpected with Mr. Polian during the draft.

It would not surprise me to see him trade down (assuming he could find a willing trade partner to do so) in order to save money on front end contracts, acquire more players and fill needs with attendant value.

One thing is for certain. It should be a heckuva show.

BoilerMacR's 2008 NFL Mock Draft v7

2008-03-11T17:34:00.008-04:00

FIRST ROUND PROJECTIONS

1. Miami Dolphins - Jake Long, OT, Michigan

2. St. Louis Rams -Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.

3. Atlanta Falcons - Glen Dorsey, DT, LSU

4. Oakland Raiders - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

5. Kansas City Chiefs - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.

6. New York Jets - Chris Long, DE, Virginia

7. N.E. Patriots (from SF) - Derrick Harvery, DE, Florida

8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

10. New Orleans Saints - Keith Rivers, LB, USC

11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma

12. Denver Broncos - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

13. Carolina Panthers - Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami

14. Chicago Bears - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

15. Detroit Lions - DRC, CB, Tenn. St.

16. Arizona Cardinals - Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson

17. Minnesota Vikings - Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt

18. Houston Texans - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

19. Philadelphia Eagles - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

20. Tampa Bay Bucs - James Hardy, WR, Indiana

21. Washington Redskins - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami

22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - Brandon Albert, OG, Tennessee

23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Anthony Collins, OT, Kansas

24. Tennessee Titans - Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina (RB/KR/WR-BPA)

25. Seattle Seahawks - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas

26. J'ville Jaguars - Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy (Want top DE or CB)

27. Dallas Cowboys - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.

29. San Diego Chargers - Mike Jenkins, CB, So Florida

30. Green Bay Packers - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona

New England Forfeits Pick #31 due to illegal spying

32. New York Giants - Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College

ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:

33. Miami - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

34. St. Louis - DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal

35. Atlanta - Brain Brohm, QB, Louisville

36. Kansas City - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida

37. NY Jets - Chad Henne, QB, Michigan

38. Atlanta - Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina

39. Baltimore - Quentin Groves, OLB, Auburn

40. San Francisco - Erin Henderson, OLB, Maryland

41. New Orleans - Mike Pollack, C, Arizona

42. Buffalo - Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue

43. Denver - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame

44. Carolina -Sam Baker, OT, USC

45. Chicago - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska

46. Detroit - Jerod Mayo, ILB, Tennessee

47. Cincinnati - Fred Davis, TE, USC

48. Minnesota - Martellus Bennett, TE, Texas A&M

49. Atlanta* - Curtis Lofton, ILB, Oklahoma

50. Philadelphia - DaJuan Morgan, S, NC St.

51. Arizona - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska

52. Washington - Lawrence Jackson, DE, Florida

53. Tampa Bay - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware

54. Pittsburgh - Justin King, CB, Penn St.

55. Tennessee - Roy Scheuning, OG, Oregon St. (need center also)

56. Seattle - Pat Sims, DT, Auburn

57. Green Bay (from Cleveland) - Dre Moore, DT, Maryland

58. Miami (from SD) - Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M

59. Jacksonville - Duane Brown, OT, Va. Tech (OL or DE or DT)

60. Indianapolis - Matt Forte, RB, Tulane

61. Green Bay -Cliff Avril, OLB, Purdue

62. Dallas - Thomas Terrell, CB, USC

63. New England - Marcus Howard, LB, Georgia

64. New York Giants - Josh Barrett, SS, Arizona

ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:

65. Miami - Tavares Gooden, ILB, Miami

66. St. Louis - Shawn Crable, OLB, Michigan

67. Kansas City - Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa

68. Carolina (From NYJets) - Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan

69. Atlanta - Phillip Wheeler, ILB, Georgia Tech

70. New England* - Duane Brown, OT, Va Tech

71. San Francisco - Steve Justice, C, Wake Forest

72. Jacksonville (from Buffalo) - Dwight Lowery, CB, San Jose St.

73. Buffalo - John Sullivan, C, Notre Dame

74. Minnesota (from Denver) - Johnny Dingle, DE, W. Virginia

75. Carolina- Quintin Demps, FS, UTEP

76. Chicago - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware

77. Detroit - Kevin Smith, RB, UCF

78. Cincinnati - Bruce Davis, OLB, UCLA

79. New Orleans - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU

80. Houston - Jamar Adams,SS, Michigan

81. Philadelphia - John Greco, OT, Toledo

82. Arizona - Oneil Cousins , OT, UTEP

83. Minnesota - Craig Steltz, S, LSU

84. Tampa Bay - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton

85. Washington - Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt

86. Tennessee - Darrell Robertson, DE, Georgia Tech

87. Seattle - Eddie Royal, WR, Va Tech

88. Detroit (from Cleveland) Brad Cottam, TE, Tennessee

89. Pittsburgh - Mike McGlynn, OG, Pitt (kendall langford/de someone who plays 3-4 end)

90. Jacksonville - Chris Ellis, DE, Va Tech

91. Chicago (from SD) - Will Franklin, WR, Missouri

92. Green Bay - John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame

93. Dallas - Marcus Griffin, S, Texas

94. Indianapolis - Chilo Rachal, OG, USC

95. New England - Tyvon Branch, CB, UConn

96. NY Giants- Antwaun Molden, CB, 6-1

ROUND FOUR PROJECTIONS

97. Miami

98. St. Louis

99. NY Jets

100. Atlanta

101. Oakland

102. Kansas City

103. Baltimore

104. San Francisco

105. Denver

106. Carolina

107. Chicago

108. Detroit

109. Cincinnati

110. NY Jets(from NO)

111. Buffalo

112. Philadelphia

113. Arizona

114. Minnesota

115. Houston

116. Denver (from Washington)

117. Tampa Bay

118. Seattle

119. Cleveland

120. Pittsburgh

121. Tennessee

122. Jacksonville

123. San Diego ( pick forfeited)

124. Dallas

125. Indianapolis

126. Green Bay

127. New England

128. NY Giants

"Baby Boilers" Settle for 2nd Place finish.

2008-03-09T22:50:00.004-04:00

Purdue's young guns knocked off the university with the original Fab Four. This contemporary version features freshman with names like Hummle, Moore, Martin and Johnson sparking Purdue to a stunning season. This afternoon the Boilermakers win their final game of the regular season 72-58 in Ann Arbor and clinch sole possession of 2nd place in the Big Ten.

Only a stumble this past Tuesday night in Columbus kept the Baby Boilers from collecting the Big Ten title, losing by 3 in overtime. Had they won that game and then the one today, Purdue would have won the title outright by virtue of beating Wisconsin twice this season. However, the loss to Ohio State cost Purdue that championship banner and the young squad end in 2nd place, one full game behind the Badgers.

Now the Boilermakers (24-7, 15-3) are seeded #2 into the Big Ten post-season tournament and face the winner of Penn State-Illinois for a Friday night game. Purdue has never won the post-season tournament. In fact, the Boilers are usually out in the first round. This year might be different. Especially considering that one of the four frosh, Scott Martin, seems to finally be getting his groove going.

Martin has battled back from an ankle injury earlier in the year, and was key in the win over Michigan St. He also played exceptionally well against Ohio St., as well as today against Michigan. That means the Boilers are chugging on all cylinders now, enabling the Boilers to get potential double-figure scoring from any of their five starters, while be able to go to a deep bench. Their only possible weakness (and it's a glaring one) is not having a big man in the paint.

One thing that is certain is that the Boilers have earned a trip back to the NCAA tournament. That will be the second trip in three years for young Matt Painter, who has turned the program back into a winner just three years after succeeding long-time coach Gene Keady. In his first year, Matt Painter had to endure ending up at the bottom of the league. What a turnaround.

The achilles heel for Purdue in losses this season has been poor shooting and breakdowns defensively allowing dribble penetration. Teams with larger front-lint players are also starting to take advantage of the inside game, and pushing the perimeter out further on Purdue when the Boilers set up offensively. The Baby Boilers will have to adjust to that in both tournaments if they hope to go deep in tourney play.

But for the youngest team in the nation, in their first year of play at this level, it is a huge achievement. With the addition of a big, dominating inside player, the Boilers are Final Four material in the coming years.

BONUS PURDUE SPORTS NEWS: The Lady Boilers knocked off Illinois 58-56 to win the Big Ten Women's Championship at Conseco Field House in Indianapolis tonight. Lakisha Freeman hit a follow-up rebound of her own miss at the buzzer to capture an improbable tournament title for a Boiler squad who has struggled through injury and adversity this season. Had Purdue's lady Boilers not won the Big Ten tourney, it's hard to imagine they would be going to the NCAA tournament.

This is the 7th B10 tournament title for the Purdue women's team overall. That's HALF of them, as the tournament is 14 years old. The last tournament championship loss for Illinois was back in 1999, to Purdue. In that year, Purdue went on to win the NCAA Women's title.

Deja vu? Doubtful...but exciting nonetheless for a team that really wasn't expected to do this.

BoilerMacR's Mock Draft v6

2008-03-03T19:20:00.006-05:00

FIRST ROUND

1. Miami Dolphins - Chris Long, DE, Virginia
2. St. Louis Rams - Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.
3. Atlanta Falcons - Jake Long, OT, Michigan
4. Oakland Raiders - Glen Dorsey, DT, LSU
5. Kansas City Chiefs - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
6. New York Jets - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas (betcha Jets trade later with Dallas)
7. N.E. Patriots (from SF) - Keith Rivers, LB, USC
8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints - Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
12. Denver Broncos - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
13. Carolina Panthers - Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami
14. Chicago Bears - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
15. Detroit Lions - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
16. Arizona Cardinals - Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
17. Minnesota Vikings - Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt
18. Houston Texans - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
19. Philadelphia Eagles - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
20. Tampa Bay Bucs - James Hardy, WR, Indiana
21. Washington Redskins - Brandon Albert, OG, Virginia
22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - D.R-Cromartie, CB, Tenn. St.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Anthony Collins, OT, Kansas
24. Tennessee Titans - Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
25. Seattle Seahawks - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas
26. J'ville Jaguars - Dan Connor, ILB, Penn St.
27. Dallas Cowboys - Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.
28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal
29. San Diego Chargers - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
30. Green Bay Packers - Mike Jenkins, CB, So. Florida
New England Forfeits Pick #31 due to illegal spying
32. New York Giants - Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College

ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:

33. Miami - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
34. St. Louis - Early Doucet, WR, LSU
35. Atlanta - Brain Brohm, QB, Louisville
36. Oakland - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
37. Kansas City - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida
38. N.Y. Jets - Xavier Adibi, OLB, Va Tech
39. Baltimore - Quentin Groves, OLB, Auburn
40. San Francisco - Erin Henderson, OLB, Maryland
41. New Orleans - Mike Pollack, C, Arizona
42. Buffalo - Martellus Bennett, TE, Texas A&M
43. Denver - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
44. Carolina -Chris Johnson, RB, ECU
45. Chicago - Sam Baker, OT, USC
46. Detroit - Jerod Mayo, ILB, Tennessee
47. Cincinnati - Fred Davis, TE, USC
48. Minnesota - Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue
49. Atlanta* - Curtis Lofton, ILB, Oklahoma
50. Philadelphia - DaJuan Morgan, S, NC St.
51. Arizona - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
52. Washington - Lawrence Jackson, DE, Florida
53. Tampa Bay - Chad Henne, QB, Michigan
54. Cleveland - Tracy Porter, CB, IU
55. Pittsburgh - Roy Scheuning, OG, Oregon St.
56. Tennessee - Pat Sims, DT, Auburn
57. Seattle - Dre Moore, DT, Maryland
58. Jacksonville - Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M
59. Miami* - Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
60. Green Bay -Cliff Avril, OLB, Purdue
61. Dallas - Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers
62. Indianapolis - Matt Forte, RB, Tulane
63. New York Giants - Thomas Terrell, CB, USC
64. New England - Marcus Howard, LB, Georgia

ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:

65. Miami - Tavares Gooden, ILB, Miami
66. St. Louis - Shawn Crable, OLB, Michigan
67. Kansas City - Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
68. N.Y. Jets - Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt
69. New England* - Duane Brown, OT, Va Tech
70. Atlanta - Philip Wheeler, ILB, Georgia Tech
71. San Francisco - Steve Justice, C, Wake Forest
72. Buffalo* - Dwight Lowery, CB, San Jose St.
73. Buffalo - John Sullivan, C, Notre Dame
74. Minnesota* - Johnny Dingle, DE, W. Virginia
75. Carolina- Quintin Demps, FS, UTEP
76. Chicago - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware
77. Detroit - Kevin Smith, RB, UCF
78. Cincinnati - Bruce Davis, OLB, UCLA
79. New Orleans - Chilo Rachal, OG, USC
80. Houston - Jamar Adams,SS, Michigan
81. Philadelphia - John Greco, OT, Toledo
82. Arizona - Oneil Cousins , OT, UTEP
83. Minnesota - Craig Steltz, S, LSU
84. Tampa Bay - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton
85. Washington - Donnie Avery, WR, Houston
86. Cleveland - Darrell Robertson, DE, Georgia Tech
87. Tennessee - Eddie Royal, WR, Va Tech
88. Seattle - Brad Cottam, TE, Tennessee
89. Pittsburgh - Mike McGlynn, OG, Pitt
90. Jacksonville - Chris Ellis, DE, Va Tech
91. Chicago* - Will Franklin, WR, Missouri
92. Green Bay - John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame
93. Dallas - Marcus Griffin, S, Texas
94. Indianapolis - Ahtyba Rubin, DT, Iowa St.
95. NY Giants - Justin King, CB, Penn St.
96. New England - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU

Boilers #1 in Big Ten

2008-02-17T10:33:00.004-05:00

Never would have thought it. Not in a million years. And it seems like it has been ions since I could write that subject line. Only 12 years since our last title, but that IS ions in basketball years in this state.

Yes, I saw the inevitable potential in the 4 young Purdue players this past summer in Mackey during the exhibition Indiana all-star game. I knew Matt Painter would eventually have them playing as a solid team and challenging for Big Ten titles in a couple of years, while creating havoc for the initial two years as this young squad matured in the midst of Big Ten battles.

However, never in my wildest dreams did I conjure up even one thought of battling for the title in their very first campaign. And much of this has been done with extremely suffocating defense and early season shooting woes. And one of the four, Scott Martin, has been out with an injury for a few games. Before that, Robbie Hummel sat out the lone league loss with the flu.

This is one of the most enjoyable and exciting Purdue teams I have ever watched. I remember the Walter Jordan, Wayne Walls and the 1974 NIT Champions were fun to watch. So too was the NCAA Final Four team of Joe Barry Carroll, Jerry Sichting, the Walker brothers and Arnette Hillman. The improbable 1984 team with the Jim Rowinski bank shot to beat Illinois and the might 1988 team with the triplets of Stephens-Mitchell-Lewis. And of course the three-peat team of '94,'95 and '96 led by Glenn Robinson, were as exciting as any.

But now comes as big a game in the Purdue-IU rivalry as there has ever been. Not since 2000 have these two teams battled in a league game that meant something other than bragging rights. THIS game is for the league lead and potentially the league championship. IF Purdue wins, they will have a lone loss in league play, while the Hoosiers would then have 3.

The game is in Bloomington and for whatever ridiculous reason, this is the only matchup between these in-state rivals this year, so Purdue would then have the edge on both IU and Wisconsin, while splitting the series with four loss Michigan St. Decided advantage for Purdue.

Tuesday night will be HUGE.

2008 NFL Mock Draft, v5

2008-01-30T22:44:00.001-05:00

FIRST ROUND

1. Miami Dolphins - Chris Long, DE, Virginia

The big decision for the Tuna Company will be whether or not to build the foundation with a new QB, new DT or new DE. The fact that Parcell's loves a strong defense and an especially strong pass rushing attack would indicate he may favor DE Long. But Parcells has also made 3 QB's his first picks in previous drafts (Simms, Testaverde & Bledsoe) so he could start the Dolphins over on offense. And will Parcells go with the 3-4 defense? If so, that pretty much cancels out a Glen Dorsey pick. I'll go with defense because I think Parcells is looking at snatching Tim Tebow as the QB of the future in the next draft, so he will opt to get strong on defense and ride it out at QB with Green or another FA.

2. St. Louis Rams - Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.

The Rams need a serious pass rusher who can also help stop the run. Gholston races up the charts after an outstanding combine and becomes the second DE in a row taken in the draft, especially after the Giants showed what can happen with great pressure on a QB.

3. Atlanta Falcons - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

I cannot see the Falcons passing on a potentially fast, powerful backfield of McFadden and Jerious Norwood, not to mention veteran Warrick Dunn. They can pick up a QB in the next round, then work on the defense while adding offensive lineman as well.

4. Oakland Raiders - Glen Dorsey, DT, Miami

The franchise QB will have growing pains and he will need protection and receivers. But the Raiders can't let a prospect like Dorsey go. So they take Dorsey here and then will work to get the offensive tackle position and receiver positions addressed in later rounds. The worry about not taking Jake Long here is the protection of Russell. But if you can't stop the other team Russell is likely always playing without a lead.

5. Kansas City Chiefs - Jake Long, OT, Michigan

The QB's cannot be any good at all without protection or a running game. They have to have extremely talented offensive lineman to do both. It's a no-brainer pick to me with limited, top-rated OT's at a premium. The Chiefs get a gift with Long falling in their laps here. True, they need a defensive end and a corner, but they can't move the ball without quality up front. Not moving the ball means the defense stays on the field much too long and eventually leads to season-ending injuries, while games lost in the 4th Qtr. pile up.

6. New York Jets - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

The speed of Ellis, especially as it relates to inside pass rushing, puts him just ahead of Dorsey in a fit for the NY Jets. Plus Dorsey is a prototypical 4-3 DT. The Jets were 30th in total yards allowed per game in 2007 and were especially atrocious against the run. They need help on the defensive line and at outside linebacker. I'm thinking that rotating Ellis and Robertson at the DT positions, it helps both in to stay healthy and fresh. It also allows Ellis to learn the ropes. This would help DE Shaun Ellis and Coleman on the outside too, as the Jets could later add depth at DE and help in the rotation on the edge with Ellis, Coleman and Mosely. But there's no doubt defense is a main theme in April, but it must start up front.

7. N.E. Patriots (from SF) - Derrick Harvey, DE/LB, Florida

The Pats need to revitalize their LB corps, and might be able to utilize Harvey as an OLB while having him fill in on occassion as an outside pass rusher at DE. Great versatility here with this pick, coming at a time when New England's only big problem is the aging backer corps.

8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

The Ravens could potentially role the dice here and continue to hope the trio of McNair, Boller and Troy Smith will be enough for now. But other than Calais Campbell or Mike Jenkins, the Ravens really have no other first round value pick that matches up with a high enough need than does Matt Ryan. Look for the Ravens to say "Sayanora" to McNair, and have Ryan battle it out with Boller and Smith.

9. Cincinnati Bengals - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami

Could also be Kentwaan Balmer here, but I think Campbell is the more certain pick. With the Bengals, EVERYTHING in this draft will be about defense - except for the one pick they must make at the tight end position. And there should be some good tight ends in later rounds.

10. New Orleans Saints - Mike Jenkins, CB, So. Florida

Tough call here between a CB and DT Balmer, and it could go either way. I am going with cornerback because I just can't get those pictures of hopeless Jason David out of my mind. Now David isn't done, he just needs to be in that system a little longer and find his niche. Enter Mike Jenkins, who runs a 4.4 40 and is 6'0", 200 lbs. What's more, Jenkins could end up helping the Saints on special teams as a kick/punt returner rather than risking injury with Reggie Bush. The Saints desperately need a solid secondary to help New Orleans slow down opponents. To be sure, this will be one of many defensive picks for the Saints, unless they shop in FA.

11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma

Adding a speedy, big wideout will help the Bills offense increase it's potential explosive force exponentially. A defensive tackle, cornerback and linebacker are needs too, but the ability to put points on the board within the same division as New England is the most important. Kelly will help that cause, creating multiple weapons for opposing defenses to try and defend.

12. Denver Broncos - Kentwaan Balmer, DT, N.C.

Stuffing the run and creating a more stingy defense is their primary consideration in this draft. They also need a pick at wideout and safety, as well as linebacker, but starting in the middle of the defensive line with Balmer will start them off in the right direction.

13. Carolina Panthers - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.

I'm torn between the offensive line and safety for Carolina, especially seeing a talent like Kenny Phillips available. Seems to me that a safety will likely be available in the second round and not a top level OT, so the Panthers go with Clady here.

14. Chicago Bears - Gosder Cherilus, OT, BC

Huge, very athletic OT helps the Bears solidify the offensive line and offer more protection for whomever they finally decide to put in at QB. Other than running back, the Bears will need better depth and production out of their offensive line.

15. Detroit Lions - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona

The passing defense of Detroit was horrid and must be addressed in the draft. They finished 31st in the NFL in passing yards allowed and forced the Lions away from any chance at a running game to balance a prolific passing offense. It forced Jon Kitna and company to always play catch-up or to score on every drive. Look for one more pick in the next two rounds at corner, with adds at linebacker and the offensive line.

16. Arizona Cardinals - Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

The Cards have little protection for the QB, which spells doom for this highly charged offense. What's more, the offensive line is not doing the job in the running game as well. This pick is a bigger need than defensive end and must be addressed in the first round.

17. Minnesota Vikings - James Hardy, WR, Indiana

This pick is clearly dependent on the type of combine Hardy has, but with his size and quickness, this could be the answer the Vikes need at the wideout position. Philip Merling could be the pick at defensive end here if Hardy doesn't excel at the combine, and then Minnesota might be able to pick him up in round two.

18. Houston Texans - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

The guy is flat-out good. Catches the ball, is fast, strong and patient enough to wait for his blockers to create the holes. And his burst through the hole is exciting. Unless the Texans decide an offensive tackle trumps a running back (which it may), Mendenhall is too valuable a pick to miss out on.

19. Philadelphia Eagles - Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC

The Eagles need up front defensive pressure as well as upgrades in the linebacking unit and secondary. Lawrence Jackson, DE, from Southern Cal may be the pick here instead.

20. Tampa Bay Bucs - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

I was thinking more about a wideout with this pick, but the Bucs cannot afford to miss out on a top OT. They can probably find a suitable receiver in the next couple of rounds, so they go with Williams with this selection. Unless, of course, they find a good candidate in free agency. In that case, this is a definite wide receiver pick.

21. Washington Redskins - Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson

Washington needs several improvements in their defensive line and Merling should be a good starting point. It's possible Devin Thomas, the wideout from Michigan State, could be the selection here. The Skins also need some depth in the offensive line.

22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

The secondary help is a MUST for the first pick, and they could even go CB in the next pick of the first round. Another Troy alumni helps give the Cowboys stability in the secondary.

23. Seattle Seahawks - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

He will be the eventual heir to Shaun Alexander as the Holmgren era comes to an end following the upcoming season. Coach-in-waiting Jim Mora is already licking his chops.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers - Sam Baker, OT, USC

Just what the Steelers needed to help make certain Parker still has the blocking he needs to break off the long one. Along with offensive line reinforcement, the Steelers will look to bolster the corners and need to find an explosive wideout. Devin Thomas or Early Doucet could go here, but I have a hunch the offensive line is the pick.

25. Tennessee Titans - Devin Thomas, WR, MSU

This is the sleeper of the wideout position, which may not last much longer than the combine. Thomas has the perfect size, strength and speed to be a consistently solid WR in the pros. Think of him as a slightly taller version of Reggie Wayne. The Titans could be forced to look for a DT if Haynesworth isn't re-signed, but I don't think Fisher will allow that to happen. Even if Haynesworth is back, the Titans still need to add some depth at DT in order to rotate Albert in and out along with Vickerson.

26. J'ville Jaguars - Reggie Smith, S/CB, Oklahoma

27. Dallas Cowboys - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

Although the Cowboys might think about DT with this pick, if Jones is still on the board (and considering owner Jerry Jones' affinity for his alma mater) Dallas will not pass this pick up.

28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - DeMario Pressley, DT, NC State

Huge selection for the 49ers, as they need that disruptive, big body in the defensive front line to help create penetration up the middle and disrupt gaps for opposing RB's to slide through. San Francisco will select whichever of the DT's remain after the Cowboy pick, but will get a good one no matter which of them remain.

29. San Diego Chargers - D.R.-Cromartie, CB, LSU

Teaming up with another Cromartie will give play-by-play announcers fits having two Cromarties on the field. It will also pose additional challenges to opposing offenses searching for vulnerabilities in the Charger secondary. It is also possible the Chargers flirt with taking a DT at this pick. Someone like Trevor Laws or Dre Moore.

30. Green Bay Packers - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

Chance of the Packers taking LB Rivers of USC with this pick, but the corner position is an area of concern.

31. New York Giants - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska

Adding depth to a pretty tough offensive line.

32. New England Patriots - Forfeited

ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:

33. Miami - Keith Rivers, LB, USC

34. St. Louis - Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan

35. Atlanta - Andre Woodson, QB, Kentucky

The Falcons are now set in their offensive backfield for years to come. Potentially.

36. Oakland - Adarius Bowman, WR, Oklahoma St.

37. Kansas City - Justin Lee, CB, Penn State

38. N.Y. Jets - Dan Connor, LB, Penn State

39. Baltimore - Tony Hills, OT, Texas

40. San Francisco - Ali Highsmith, LB, LSU

41. New Orleans - Dan Connor, OLB, Penn St

42. Buffalo - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame

43. Denver - Kenny Phillips, S, Miami

44. Carolina -Thomas DeCoud, S, California

45. Chicago - Kevin Smith, RB, Central Florida

46. Detroit - Shawn Crable, LB, Michigan

47. Cincinnati - Tavares Gooden, OLB, Miami

48. Minnesota - Andre Fluellen, DT, Florida St.

49. Atlanta* - Barry Richardson, OT, Clemson

50. Philadelphia - DaJuan Morgan, S, NC St.

51. Arizona - Tommy Blake, DE, TCU

52. Washington - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

53. Tampa Bay - Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville

54. Cleveland - Frank Okam, DT, Texas

55. Pittsburgh - Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa

56. Tennessee - Chris Ellis, DE, Virginia Tech

57. Seattle - Fred Davis, TE, USC

58. Jacksonville - Wallace Gilberry, DE, Alabama

59. Miami* - Martin Rucker, TE, Missouri

60. Green Bay -Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa

61. Dallas - D.J. Hall, WR, Alabama

62. Indianapolis - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas

63. New York Giants - Letroy Guion, DT, FSU

64. New England - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU

ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:

65. Miami - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida

66. St. Louis - Craig Steltz, S, LSU

67. Kansas City - Roy Schuening, OG, Oregon St.

68. N.Y. Jets - Kirk Barton, OT, Ohio St.

69. New England* - Erick Young, OG, Tennessee

70. Atlanta - Jerod Mayo, LB, Tennessee

71. San Francisco - Keenan Burton, WR, Kentucky

72. Buffalo* - Dustin Keller, TE/WR, Purdue

73. Buffalo - Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt

74. Minnesota* - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton

75. Carolina- Red Bryant, DT, Texas A&M

76. Chicago - Dennis Keyes, S, UCLA

77. Detroit - Dre Moore, DT, Maryland

78. Cincinnati - Dwight Lowery, CB, San Jose St.

79. New Orleans - Jolonn Dunbar, ILB, Boston College

80 Houston - Marcus Griffin, S, Texas

81. Philadelphia - Heath Benedict, OT, Newberry

82. Arizona - Tommy Blake, DE, TCU

83. Minnesota - Jacob Tamme, TE, Kentucky

84. Tampa Bay - Steve Slaton, RB, West Virginia

85. Washington - Andre Fluellen, DT, FSU8

86. Cleveland - Kendall Langford, DE, Hampton

87. Tennessee - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame

88. Seattle - Kerry Brown, OG, Appalachian St.

89. Pittsburgh - Mike McGlynn, OG, Pittsburgh

90. Jacksonville - Darrell Robertson, DT, Georgia Tech

91. Chicago* - Jamar Adams, S, Michigan

92. Green Bay - Duane Brown, OT, Virginia Tech

93. Dallas - Allen Patrick, RB, Oklahoma

94. Indianapolis - Jameel McClain, DE, Syracuse

95. NY Giants - Chad Rinehart, OT, No. Iowa

96. New England - Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers

2008 NFL Mock Draft v4.0

2008-01-27T13:33:00.000-05:00

My initial mock had the Dolphins trading out of the #1 spot with Dallas. You can view it and other items at my blog:

I still believe Parcells will trade down, but will go here with the no-trade version of the mock for now.

1. Miami Dolphins - Glen Dorsey, DT, Miami

Cornerback, Defensive and Offensive tackle are the top needs for the Dolphins. Rumor has it that Bill Parcells will stick with a core of Trent Green and John Beck at QB, bringing in a 3rd QB somewhere in the draft. I still think this is a trade down pick for Parcells, and it will probably be for the Cowboys two picks in the first round. And I think Parcells will trade down at least one of those two again. Just a hunch. But looking strictly at needs, we'll play along and go Dorsey.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, DT, OT, WR, QB2.

St. Louis Rams - Chris Long, DE, Virginia

The Rams get a monster with a motor. Pairing him up with Adam Carriker will enhance the defensive line and give it plenty of flexibility. This pick could kill two birds with one stone, as they need someone to fill the DT position, and Long allows them to move folks around.

TEAM NEEDS: DT, ILB, WR, CB, OT

3. Atlanta Falcons - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

Flip of a coin makes this the Falcons pick, or they fall to #4. Most Falcon observers feel it's a 50-50 shot between Ryan and McFadden. I would add McFadden and target a later round QB that could be a sleeper - and thus save more cap money. If it doesn't work out, there is always the possibility of getting Tim Tebow in the '09 draft.

TEAM NEEDS: QB, RB, OT, OG, DT, ILB, K, CB

4. Oakland Raiders - Jake Long, OT, Michigan

Not sure what the Raiders will do here mainly because they could pick #3, #4 or #5. With Sapp gone they need a new presence in the middle of the D line. But they also need help protecting the franchise QB. Either Jake Long or Ryan Clady will be the pick for the Raiders at #4 or #5, depending on the coin toss.

TEAM NEEDS: DT, WR, DE, OT, OC, SS

5. Kansas City Chiefs - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.

The aforementioned coin toss will ultimately determine the position for the Chiefs, but not the pick. The Chiefs need to re-establish their offensive line and get Brody Croyle protected. You cannot lay the blame of last season at his feet while he is getting sacked every other play.

TEAM NEEDS: OT, CB, OG, OC, LB, WR

6. New York Jets - Vernon Gholston, DE/OLB, Ohio St.

The Jets get an immediate monster that can add needed flexibility to the Jet defense. If the Jets trade Jonathon Vilma it would have an impact on this selection.

TEAM NEEDS: OG, DE, ILB, OLB, DT, CB

7. N.E. Patriots (from SF) - Derrick Harvey, DE/LB, Florida

The rich just keep on getting richer. Slight chance the Pats go CB with this pick, but they need a flexible pass-rushing OLB and Harvey (or Gholston) fits the bill.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, OLB, RB

8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

I'm not convince ANY of the QB's will go first round in this draft because none of them stand out exceedingly well -unless the combine proves different, like it did for Jay Culter in 2005. But at this point, Ryan is tagged as probably the best bet of the three top candidates IF the Ravens go high for a QB. If they don't pick a QB here, they might opt to try and reach for an impact WR like Malcom Kelly or go for Jeff Otah or Gosder Cherilus to boost their offensive line.

TEAM NEEDS: OT, OLB, DE, CB, QB, WR,

9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

Toss a dart on a Bengal defensive chart. Wherever it lands is as good a place to start as any other. Haven't changed my mind on this one at all since version 2 and 3 mock. The Bengals will take the best available defensive player, especially a defensive lineman.

TEAM NEEDS: DEFENSE, period. DT, OLB, CB, DE, Then MAYBE a TE.

10. New Orleans Saints - Kenny Phillips, S, Miami

When the Saints draft this year, the word "defense" will be a near perpetual one. The Saints take the best defensive player available at this spot, the next spot, the next spot and......well, you get the idea. It's also possible they choose to go with a linebacker first and pick Rivers from USC.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, ILB, OLB, DE, OT, OG

11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma

Imagine an offense with Lee Evans, Roscoe Parrish and Marshawn Lynch available as the weaponry. The Bills could add Gosder Cherilus here for a sure bet, but the allure of an additional receiver might be too tempting. In round two, look for an OT or TE in the 2nd and Buffalo could be a formidable offensive nightmare for years to come.

TEAM NEEDS: WR, TE, OLB, CB, DT

12. Denver Broncos - Kentwaan Balmer, DT, N.C.

Coach Shanahan won't want to give any other team a shot at a potentially great Bronco running back, but he has many more holes to fill than running back. So he goes to the middle of the defensive line and hopes to shore it up with Balmer. But Shanahan might salivate enogh over Jonathan Stewart to go ahead and scrap his draft "needs" setup.

TEAM NEEDS: DT, OT, ILB, OLB, S, WR, OC

13. Carolina Panthers - Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

I have struggled on whether defensive or offensive line is the place to start for the Panthers. Could go either way, depending on the combine results, but Otah looks to be a solid choice.

TEAM NEEDS: OTm, OG, DE, FS, QB

14. Chicago Bears - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

Other than going for Gosder Cherilus, the Bears have some serious needs. QB is not the biggest. The running game is. That's why the offensive line and running back positions are the most important for the Bears in this draft. With hometown college boy Mildenhall available, along with Stewart and Felix Jones, the Bears have a top back available at this pick. Cherilus might get the edge as the RB field is pretty deep, so perhaps the Bears go OT here. But seems to me Stewart is just too good to pass up, especially considering the regression of Cedric Benson.

TEAM NEEDS: OT, RB, SS, QB, OG, FS

15. Detroit Lions - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami

The Lions just allowed teams to pass all over them. Imagine this team with a decent pass rush and secondary. It would probably mean they'd have a solid playoff team. They were oh-so-close until the late swoon this past season. Adding Campbell to this team would immediately create a significant enough pass rush that would at least make it harder for opponents to pass. Picking up some secondary help in later rounds would do even more.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, DE, DT, ILB, OG

16. Arizona Cardinals - Mike Jenkins, CB, USF

The Cards are inching closer to breaking through to the next level. But will they make it in time to take advantage of that prolific offense? This phenom (should he drop this far down) will certainly be able to help start that move. Now if the Cards deem that the O-line is more significant than the secondary, they could go with big OT Gosder Cherilus here.

TEAM NEEDS: DE, OLB, CB, OT, DT

17. Minnesota Vikings - James Hardy, WR, Indiana

Tough call here. The Vikes need a pass rusher to create havoc on the outside for a defense that is stout against the run, but falls off in the passing game. Minnesota also desperately needs another wideout that can create a future tandem the opposite side of Sidney Rice. They are also in need of another TE, although I would say that would be a later option. Philip Merling or Quentin Groves are possible here, but I'll go with the 6-7 Hardy - a slight reach - who may give Viking fans that big wideout they have longed for since you-know-who left. Slight chance DeSean Jackson goes here.

TEAM NEEDS: WR, TE, DE

18. Houston Texans - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

This will be either a RB or OL pick, but either way the Texans are a team on the rise. If they can add one of each it could help them contend for a playoff spot immediately. I think Mendenhall will be too good a risk to pass up. Gosder Cherilus may be a pick here, but I would think the potential of Mendenhall - coupled with the question mark in the Texan running game - will be the ultimate deciding factor.

TEAM NEEDS: RB, OT, FS, CB, DE

19. Philadelphia Eagles - Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson

Good prospect for the Eagle defensive line. This will allow the Eagles to solidify their tough defense and then get set to snag a top tight end, OT or cornerback in the second round.

TEAM NEEDS: DE, TE, OT, CB, LB

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

They lack weapons in their passing attack no matter the QB, while they have needs at four or five other positions. I think they opt to go with a big target at wideout, which means a Limas Sweed type. They could go instead with Marcus Harrison or Pat Sims at DT but Sweed is too much of a prospect to let go.

TEAM NEEDS: DT, QB, RB, WR, OT

21. Washington Redskins - Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn

Might be a slight reach, but the Skins need to grab either a top corner or defensive lineman at this pick. Trying to help increase the pass rush is a good move, but so is trying to regain some depth in the secondary, so it could be McKelvin or Calib here as well. Could go DT here but I doubt it if Groves is still on the board.

TEAM NEEDS: DE, DT, CB, WR, OG, OT

22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

Assuming the Cowboys don't cut a deal with Bill Parcells to move up to #1, the secondary- and specifically Jaques "Torch Me Baby" Reeves - needs a boost. ( I'm a huge Boilermaker fan, but Reeves sucked even when he was at Purdue! ) McKelvin immediately makes an impact on an otherwise pretty solid team. Very slight chance they go WR here.

TEAM NEEDS: CB's, RB, WR

23. Seattle Seahawks - Gosder Cherilus, OT, BC

Holmgren could opt to go with a TE pick here to allow for more offensive options, but the line needs some help on both sides of the ball. This pick is BPA and Cherilus will most assuredly boost the effectiveness of the Seahawk offensive line.

TEAM NEEDS: OG, DT, WR, RB, DE

24. Pittsburgh Steelers - Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC

The Steelers need offensive lineman and will not be thrilled to lose out on Cherilus, so Jackson is BPA at this pick. They hope he gives them a chance to get more pressure up front. Jackson will need to be "coached up" on run defense though, but is worth taking a gamble on at this point. Wouldn't be surprised to see the Steelers snatch Devin Thomas at wideout.

TEAM NEEDS: OG, DE, WR, ILB, CB

25. Tennessee Titans - Devin Thomas, WR, MSU

Not as big as the Titans would want, but he is taller and just about as speedy as Doucet or Manningham. Thomas was underrated this past season in the Big Ten and should provide a good shot in the arm for the Titan passing attack.

TEAM NEEDS: WR, DT, DE, OGm, TE, CB

26. J'ville Jaguars - DeSean Jackson, WR, California

Since Hardy, Kelly, Sweed and Thomas are gone at the wideout positions, Del Rio takes the slipping Jackson. He fell not because of talent, but rather size. Ironically, he falls to a team that has huge WR's in abundance. But Jackson can fill the important slot role and return kicks. The Jags could go for a DE here, but Lawrence Jackson might not fit here.

TEAM NEEDS: DE, WR, CB

27. Dallas Cowboys - D. R-Cromartie, CB, Tenn. St.

More work on the secondary and now they have two stellar prospects in McKelvin and Cromartie. The Cowboys can afford to "reach" on this pick for Cromartie, as they have already secured top prospect McKelvin. Now Dallas has two top 12 CB's on the roster from this draft.

TEAM NEEDS: CB's, RB, WR

28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - Adarius Bowman, WR, Ok. St.

This could be Early Doucet or Mario Mannigham with this pick, but Bowman is taller and close to similiar speed. The 49ers must get a big target at the wideout position, but might opt to go with Manningham's 4.4 speed and add a later round WR for depth. DT Red Bryant is also possible.

TEAM NEEDS: WR, DT, DE, OG, OC

29. San Diego Chargers - Keith Rivers, LB, USC

Rivers stays in California and the Chargers will no doubt shift things around enough to get him in the mix, as they cannot afford to pass up on Rivers - even though he's an OLB. But the added depth it will give to Merriman and Phillips, while pushing the entire backer corps, is legitimate. ILB Curtis Lofton is a possibility here as well.

TEAM NEEDS: ILB, DEm, WR

30. Green Bay Packers - John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame

Depending on the combine, either Carlson, Martellus Bennett, Martin Rucker or Jacob Tamme would be the pick here. Also a chance of OT here with Sam Baker and Chris Williams still available. The Pack looked pretty good in the line play last year, so the drafting of an OT would be for depth. They can't afford to miss out on a top TE or CB prospect, so Aqib Talib is a possibility here as well.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, OT, TE

31. New York Giants - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

Look for the Giants to help solidify the secondary with this pick. They could go OT here as well since Sam Baker is still on the board just a single space ahead of Talib on the Overall. It will come down to the combine and how the Giants assess their overall needs.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, OT, FS, OLB

32. New England Patriots - Forfeited

RB, OLB, CB

ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:

33. Miami - Sam Baker, OT, USC
34. St. Louis - Mario Manningham, WR, Michigan
35. Atlanta - Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
36. Oakland - Pat Sims, DT, Auburn
37. Kansas City - Patrick Lee, CB, Auburn
38. N.Y. Jets - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
39. Baltimore - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
40. San Francisco - Marcus Harrison, DT, Arkansas
41. New Orleans - Dan Connor, OLB, Penn St
42. Buffalo - Erin Henderson, OLB, Maryland
43. Denver - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska
44. Carolina -Andre Woodsen, QB, Kentucky
45. Chicago - Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina
46. Detroit - DaJuan Morgan, S, NC State
47. Cincinnati - Ali Highsmith, OLB, LSU
48. Minnesota - Donnie Avery, WR, Houston
49. Atlanta* - Tony Hills, OT, Texas
50. Philadelphia - Fred Davis, TE, USC
51. Arizona - Geno Hayes, OLB, FSU
52. Washington - Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech
53. Tampa Bay - Chad Henne, QB, Michigan
54. Cleveland - Jason Jones, DE, Eastern Michigan
55. Pittsburgh - Curtis Lofton, ILB, Oklahoma
56. Tennessee - Chris Ellis, DE, Virginia Tech
57. Seattle - Letroy Guion, DT, FSU
58. Jacksonville - Tracey Porter, CB, Indiana
59. Miami* - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
60. Green Bay -Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa
61. Dallas - D.J. Hall, WR, Alabama
62. Indianapolis - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas
63. New York Giants - Thomas DeCoud, S, Auburn
64. New England - Tavares Gooden, OLB, Miami

ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:

65. Miami - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida
66. St. Louis - Jerod Mayo, ILB, Tennessee
67. Kansas City - Brandon Albert, OG, Arkansas
68. N.Y. Jets - Roy Schuening, OG, Oregon St.
69. New England* - Trae Williams, CB, South Florida
70. Atlanta - Spencer Larsen, ILB, Arizona
71. San Francisco - Cliff Avril, DE/OLB, Purdue
72. Buffalo* - Dustin Keller, TE/H-Back, Purdue
73. Buffalo - Earl Bennett, WR, Vanderbilt
74. Minnesota* - Angelo Craig, DE, Cincinnati
75. Carolina- Oniel Cousins, OT, UTEP
76. Chicago - Barry Richardson, OT, Clemson
77. Detroit - Dre Moore, DT, Maryland
78. Cincinnati - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU
79. New Orleans - Jolonn Dunbar, ILB, Boston College
80 Houston - Marcus Griffin, S, Texas
81. Philadelphia - Heath Benedict, OT, Newberry
82. Arizona - Tommy Blake, DE, TCU
83. Minnesota - Jacob Tamme, TE, Kentucky
84. Tampa Bay - Steve Slaton, RB, West Virginia
85. Washington - Andre Fluellen, DT, FSU
86. Cleveland - DeMario Pressley, DT, NC State
87. Tennessee - Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
88. Seattle - Kerry Brown, OG, Appalachian St.
89. Pittsburgh - Mike McGlynn, OG, Pittsburgh
90. Jacksonville - Darrell Robertson, DT, Georgia Tech
91. Chicago* - Jamar Adams, S, Michigan
92. Green Bay - Duane Brown, OT, Virginia Tech
93. Dallas - Allen Patrick, RB, Oklahoma
94. Indianapolis - Jameel McClain, DE, Syracuse
95. NY Giants - Chad Rinehart, OT, No. Iowa
96. New England - Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers

Boilers Knock Off # 11 Badgers

2008-01-27T10:04:00.000-05:00

Mackey Magic is back and the Boilermaker basketball is turning the corner. Perhaps after yesterday's thrilling 60-56 win over #11 Wisconsin, Purdue has finally made the turn nearly complete. We'll know for sure if they can win their next one and not allow a let down to take place.

The fab four freshman combined once again to give Purdue their sixth win in seven Big Ten outings, with Etwaun Moore leading the Boilers with 16 points. But it was Robbie Hummel's block of a Badger attempt at a game-tying layup with 1.2 seconds remaining that sealed the victory. Fans stormed Keady Court after the final buzzer. It was the first time they had done so since Coach Matt Painter and the Boilers knocked off Indiana in 1992, denying IU an outright Big Ten title that year. That happened to also be the first time fans had stormed the court. I would expect to see that number jump up from two to God-knows-how-many in the next 3 and a half years with this collection of solid players.

Mackey Arena has always been a fantastic and loud place to play, but in recent years the magic had worn off through some seriously disheartening erosion in the program. But Matt Painter has brought the program back to life and a ticket to a Boilermaker basketball game will once again be a hot commodity. At 15-5 (6-1 in the Big Ten) the Boilers are edging closer to an NCAA invititation that would truly be remarkable with a team of all freshmen and sophomores, save one senior and one junior. Certainly this program will be tough to deal with for the next few seasons.

Great win and great lift for Boilermaker basketball.

Indianapolis Draft History Recap

2008-01-21T12:47:00.001-05:00

Last April we saw the Indianapolis Colts fill the wideout spot with rookie Anthony Gonzales to replace the gaping void left by the departure of Brandon Stokely. Then the Colts drafted Tony Ugoh for depth and eventual need at the OT spot. Little did they know they actual drafted for immediate need, as OT Tarik Glenn announced his retirement just prior to the start of training camp. Ugoh immediately became a starter.

Quinn Pitcock became part of the DLine rotation due to the many injuries the Colts faced in the 2007 season. Same for Clint Sessions and Kenyatta Dawson, who also contributed when the injury bugs hit. Michael Coe showed promise in the secondary and rotated in and out as a backup, as did Daymeion Hughes and Brandon Condren. Roy Hall was looking to be the sleeper of the '07 draft before he went down with a season ending injury while making a spectacular hit on special teams.

All in all, every draft pick by the Colts in the 2007 NFL draft made a contibution. In some cases, they made more than was expected initially and show great promise for a team that now has quite a bit of depth on defense, especially in the secondary.

3 picks on offense, 6 on defense.

I think defense is going to get two or three picks this year, while the offensive line, running back and either TE or wideouts are picks also. At DE, I would love the Colts to grab 6-6, 295 lb. Kendall Langford of Hampton with our first pick in the second round. He might be a tad too slow for our need with a blasting pass rush, so maybe someone like 6-2,250 Marcus Howard from Georgia (4.7 speed) would be a better fit. If we had a shot at Red Bryant, 6-4, 235, from Texas A&M at DT, or Andre Fuellen, 6-4, 280 DT from FSU, would that trump a pick at DE? Not sure.

Offensive Line is a definite need. There is Jeremy Zutta, 6-4,292 lber. from Rutgers and Mike Fladell, 6-7, 322 also from Rutgers. Or Demetrius Bell, 6-6, 288 from NW State (LA) and Dylan Thiry, 6-7, 317, of Northwestern.

Running back will be a critical need for the Colts this year as well. Not sure it will be a first pick for Indy, but it could come in round 3 or 4. Andre Brown, 6-0, 233 from NC State and Calvin Dawson, 5'10", 207 from UL Monroe are good candidates here. And Chauncey Washington, 5'11", 219 from UCLA.

Looking at a potential add at TE for the Colts we see several candidates. Craig Stevens, 6-5, 255 from Cal and Bear Pascoe, 6-5, 266 from Fresno St. Or Jacob Tamme, 6-4, 243 out of Louisville or Marcel Frost, 6-4, 256 out of Jackson St.

At any rate, here is the list of last year's picks:

2007

1 - Anthony Gonzales, WR
2 - Tony Ugoh, OT
3 - Quinn Pitcock, DE
4 - Clint Sessions, LB
5 - Keyunta Dawson, DE
6 - Michael Coe, CB
7 - Daymeion Hughes, CB
8 - Brandon Condren, CB
9 - Roy Hall

So, in order to gauge what direction Bill Polian and the Indianapolis Colts might go this year in the draft, I thought it valuable to go back over the past 12 years of drafts and look at what positions were drafted and in what order. Perhaps there is no clear-cut order or method, but it is worth a look. I will then match that up against the perceived needs of the Colts for the upcoming season. It may give us a better indication of who we will be picking in April. Then again, it may just screw us up even more trying to figure out Bill Polian.

2006

1 Joseph Addai, RB LSU
2 Tim Jennings, CB, Georgia
3 Freddie Keiaho, LB San Diego State
5 Michael Toudouze, OT, TCU
6 Charlie Johnson, OG, Oklahoma State
6 Antoine Bethea, S, Howard
7 T.J. Rushing, CB, Stanford

2005

1 Marlin Jackson, CB, Michigan
2 Kelvin Hayden, CB, Illinois
3 Vincent Burns, DT, Kentucky
4 Dylan Gandy, OG,Texas Tech
4 Matt Giordano, S, California
5 Jonathan Welsh, DE, Wisconsin
5 Robert Hunt,C, North Dakota State
5 Tyjuan Hagler,LB,Cincinnati
6 Dave Rayner, K, Michigan State
7 Anthony Davis, Wisconsin

2004

2 Bob Sanders, S, Iowa
3 Ben Hartsock, TE, Ohio State
3 Gilbert Gardner,LB,Purdue
4 Kendyll Pope, LB,Florida State
4 Jason David, CB,Washington State
5 Jake Scott, OT, Idaho
6 Von Hutchins, CB,Mississippi
6 Jim Sorgi,QB,Wisconsin
7 David Kimball,K,Penn State

2003

1 Dallas Clark, TE,Iowa
2 Michael Doss ,CB, Ohio State
3 Donald Strickland, LB,Colorado
4 Steve Sciullo, OL, Marshall
5 Robert Mathis, DE,Alabama A&M
5 Keyon Whiteside, LB,Tennessee
6 Cato June, LB, Michigan
6 Makoa Freitas, OG,Arizona

2002

1 Dwight Freeney, DE, Syracuse
2 Larry Tripplett, DT, Washington
3 Joseph Jefferson, CB, Western Kentucky
4 David Thorton, LB, North Carolina
6 David Pugh, DT,Virginia Tech
6 James Lewis, CB,Miami (FL)
6 Brian Allen,RB, Stanford
7 Josh Mallard,DE, Georgia

2001

1 Reggie Wayne, WR,Miami (FL)
2 Idrees Bashir, CB, Memphis
3 Cory Bird, CB, Virginia Tech
4 Ryan Diem, OG, Northern Illinois
5 Raymond Walls,DB, Southern Mississippi
6 Jason Doering,CB,Wisconsin
7 Rick DeMulling, OT, Idaho State

2000

1 Rob Morris, LB, Brigham Young
2 Marcus Washington, LB, Auburn
3 David Macklin,CB, Penn State
4 Josh Williams,DT, Michigan
5 Matt Johnson, OG, Brigham Young
7 Rob Renes,DT, Michigan
7 Rodregis Brooks, CB, Alabama-Birmingham

1999

1 Edgerrin James,RB,Miami (FL)
2 Mike Peterson, LB, Florida
3 Brandon Burlsworth, OG, Arkansas
4 Paul Miranda,CB, Central Florida
5 Brad Scioli, DE, Penn State
7 Hunter Smith, P, Notre Dame
7 Corey Terry, CB, Tennessee

1998******* Bill Polian's first draft as Indy GM *********

1 Peyton Manning, QB, Tennessee
2 Jerome Pathon, WR, Washington
3 E.G. Green, WR, Florida State
4 Steve McKinney, OG, Texas A&M
5 Antony Jordan, LB, Vanderbilt
7 Aaron Taylor, C, Nebraska
7 Cory Gaines, CB, Tennessee

1997 ####Last Pre-Polian Draft ######

1 Tarik Glenn, OT, California
2 Adam Meadows, OT, Georgia
3 Bertrand Berry, LB, Notre Dame
4 Delmonico Montgomery, CB, Houston
5 Nathaniel Jacquet, WR, San Diego State
5 Carl Powell, CB, Louisville
6 Scott Von der Ahe, LB, Arizona State
7 Clarence Thompson, CB, Knoxville

1996

1 Marvin Harrison, WR, Syracuse
2 Dedric Mathis, CB, Houston
3 Scott Slutzker, TE, Iowa
4 Brian Milne, RB, Penn State
5 Steve Martin, DT, Missouri
6 Keith Conlin, OT, Penn State
6 Mike Cawley, QB, James Madison
7 Adrian Robinson, CB, Baylor

Visit DraftTek.com ! Here are My "Colts Needs" for 2008 NFL Draft

2008-01-17T14:44:00.001-05:00

Be sure to check out team needs for all 32 teams and the latest mock draft for 2008 at drafttek.com, a great site that breaks down all seven rounds for the upcoming draft. And all 32 teams have Draft Tek correspondents like me who evaluate what their favorite team will need to add from the draft, prioritizing each pick.

Now for the Colts, there are several things that will dictate how the Colts proceed in the 2008 NFL draft this coming April. The most talked about (though I don't think the most significant) is the final decision of coach Tony Dungy and whether or not he returns to the team for another season. The reason it's not the most significant element to me is the continuity aspect of the final outcome, either way. Bill Polian will still be in charge and the potential coaching replacement in Jim Caldwell pretty much means status quo for the club.

There is the matter of Dallas Clark's contract negotiations, though Bill Polian has made it clear he will put the franchise tag on Clark if there is no agreement to a new contract. And Clark insists he wants to remain in Indy. So that seems to be a rather minor obstacle.

But the absolute biggest factors include the decisions surrounding three players. Defensive Tackle Anthony "Booger" McFarland, and Offensive Linemen Ryan Lilja and Jake Scott. The decisions made on those three players will have the biggest overall impact on the draft for Indianapolis this coming April. All three are important components of the past success of the team, but all three will probably be seeking more money than the Colts can ultimately offer.

Lilja and Scott are two of Indy's starting offensive linemen. Both are quality lineman who have done an outstanding job at their positions and both are young players (going into their 5th year each) who have had some injuries, but have come through to be effective contributors to an often under-appreciated element of the offensive success. Should both be lost in free agency, the Colts will have to use at least two draft picks for their replacements. That would leave just four picks (not counting supplemental picks) to utilize for other areas of the team because the Colts traded their first round pick of this year to San Francisco during the 2007 draft.

It is my opinion the Colts need another sturdy, but fleet-footed running back that can catch the ball as well as move the pile. Joe Addai was bruised and battered by week 10, and the Colts could not get the same efficiency out of Kenton Keith. Plus Keith isn't exactly a pass-catching guru. So an additional running back, in my mind, is a critical need this year.

Defensively, the situation is up in the air with regards to the DT position. Is McFarland coming back? If not, he'll be a tremendous loss and the Colts will obviously need to draft another, even though Ed Johnson, Darrell Reid and Quinn Pitcock shared those duties at various times this past season. Because of the play of those three backups, the drive to get a DT with their first pick in the second round isn't critical. But it is important. Either running back or DT (if McFarland doesn't return) with the first pick for the Colts in the 2008 draft.

After that, the Colts could use some help at cornerback and defensive end. Althought the secondary unit is deep, there is just no way the Colts can afford to have Tim Jennings on the field. Nor T.J. Rushing, either as a corner or a return specialist. Jamar Adams, 6-1 DB from Michigan would be a good 3rd round pickup here. And without Dwight Freeney, Mathis and Brock cannot generate enough of an outside push against the elite offensive lines in the league (read: New England and San Diego) to create the pressure needed in a Tampa 2 scheme.

So in summary to this point, if the Colts lost McFarland, Scott and Lilja, they would need to draft the following positions, probably in this order:

DT, RB, DE, CB, OL, OL. Or, DE, DT, RB, CB, OL, OL. That is six of seven picks right there, no matter the actual order. The final regular draft pick could be at wideout, (which is elevated immensely if Marvin Harrison cannot come back next season due to injury or surgery) or if the Colts do not believe Aromashodu is likely to work out as a competent receiving target. I like Aromashodu, and think he needs more time with Manning and the first unit to develop into a solid contributor. A linebacker or a backup and eventual replacement for Center Jeff Saturday is also a possibility with the other pick.

Keep in mind that historically, Bill Polian drafts offensive lineman in later rounds, then turns them over to one of the best line coaches in all football - Howard Mudd. What's more, there are solid players at running back who will be available all the way to the 3rd through 5th round because of the flood of defensive talent coming into the '08 draft. That means the second round draft for Indy will probably be defense.

Not a lot of ambiguity in the draft for the Colts this year, as their needs are quite obvious if they lose all three of those aforementioned starters. They aren't going to be hassled by a first round draft pick and the attendant money associated with it, so that helps. And without the 3 former starters, that drops some more money off the total cap.

Still, there is plenty of quality talent available in the 2008 draft and the Colts will have plenty of opportunity to enhance their team, which already enjoys the comfort of knowing it will have nearly the identical team returning next season.

As I said to begin with, some of this is predicated on what coach Dungy decides to do with his future, and whether his departure would be immediately filled by assistant coach Jim Caldwell. And I would suspect there would be no significant shift in team philosophy, so that would more or less guarantee continuity, as would Bill Polian. But most of the decisions will because of the potential losses to free agency on the offensive line and McFarland at DT.

Now I will use the matrix that I use as a correspondent for drafttek.com

It goes from 1-9.

Priority Code Definitions

P1- Highest Priority for Starter, will reach - only 1 per team
P2 - High Priority in need of starter, will possibly reach
P3 - High Priority in need of starter will not reach
P4 - General Need for Depth, Value Only - No reach
P5 - General Need for Depth
P6 - Operational only in lower rounds (rd 5-7)
P9- Will Not Draft - absolutely no need, do not select

Quantity Code Definition

blank - Will select at most 1
M - may select more than 1 at this position

Player Lockout List

Identify collegiate players that willnot fit what your team is looking for. Only positions of high need (P1,P2,P3)

So with that, here is my matrix for the Colts for the 2008 draft:

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS OFFENSE:

QB - 9 But I do wonder why they resigned Jim Sorgi as backup. The Colts are one of the only teams that carry just two quarterbacks. Punter Hunter Smith is the worst case scenario emergency QB if Manning and Sorgi are out. This is more of a supplemental draft pickup OR a vet minimum signing of an aging free agent.

RB - 3 Kenton Keith is a good #3 back, but he had problems catching passes (a cardinal sin in Indy) and doesn't have the bulk to bust through in 3rd and short situations. The Colts need a rotating starter like they had in Dominic Rhodes to share carries with Joe Addai. Addai was banged up mid to late season and wore down, creating the need for Keith to handle more carries than expected. The results weren't that pleasant. The Colts will be looking at a Jehruu Caulcrick (6-0, 255lb) type out of Michigan State, or someone like Arian Foster, 6-1, 215 from Tennessee. Big enough for short yardage, but speed to get to the second level and keep moving the chains, while wearing down the defense.

WR - 4 This may go to 3, even 2, depending on how the Colts evaluate Marvin Harrison and any potential surgery in the off-season. Rookie Anthony Gonzales benefitted from the Harrison injury (though was out due to injury a few games himself) and looks ready to take over the slot receiver position, allowing the Colts to use Dallas Clark in a more traditional TE setup. Depth at WR isn't the question, but rather, the quality of the depth. Roy Hall may be the odds on favorite if he can stay healthy. Craphonso Thorpe and Devin Aromashodo are the backups. They both showed promise during the times when they did get into the lineup with both Harrison and Gonzales out with injury. However, they didn't/don't get the required time in practice with Manning to equal the necessary production at that position. If Marvin has an enduring injury, then the Colts are forced to make a play for a top WR in the early rounds.

OT - 4- This position is set with the exceptional job by Tony Ugoh. There is always the need for added depth, so a "tweener" that can flex between OG and OT may be picked up here. Much depends on whether the Colts re-sign Lilja and Diem in the off-season. If they lose both to FA, the priortiy jumps up to 2. If they retain Diem, then the need for another OT is lessened. Bill Polian does not reach for offensive lineman. In fact, he usually waits until late in the draft and picks up the folks most people leave behind. And then there is offensive line coach Howard Mudd.

OG - 3. Again, it depends on the status of Lilja and Diem. But when injuries decimated the offensive line this past season, many stepped up and did a pretty decent job most of the time. . Michael Toudouze, 2 year player out of TCU received valuable playing time when the injuries hit this past season, and he could become the starter if Lilja or Diem both go. Diem looks to be the most vulnerable of the two in terms of not being re-signed if the Colts had to choose. Again, Bill Polian always seems to find great talent late in the draft, and Howard Mudd is one of the all-time best coaching up lineman. But the Colts seriously need a 6-4, 290+ type OG in this draft.

TE -4 Dallas Clark will be resigned or tagged. Bryan Fletcher has been okay and Utecht is too fragile to remain an option if he doesn't break out in 2008. If the Colts have to "tag" Dallas this year, that still leaves his future up in the air. The Colts ALWAYS look down the road past the obvious present. Which may mean that TE is a bigger priority this year than many suspect.

OC - 4 - Jeff Saturday is an exceptional starter. Pro Bowler the past two seasons, his age is requiring the Colts to begin looking for an eventual replacement. Coming into his 10th season, this veteran leader is Peyton Manning's glue. Given the aforementioned Polian perogative of late-round drafts for lineman on offense, and the uncertain long-term status of playmakers like Harrison and Clark, chances are slim they tab a replacement this year.

FB - 6, but almost a 9. Luke Lawton is going into his 4th season at the position and does a good job. Unless Owen Schmidtt is available, there isn't a pick at this position.

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS DEFENSE

DT - 4 Depends on the re-signing of Anthony "Booger" McFarland. If he returns, the Colts will not concentrate on this area as McFarland, Darrell Reid, undrafted sensation Ed Johnson and rookie Quinn Pitcock can provide adequate depth at this position.

DE - 4 - Freeney is one of a kind and it showed how big an impact he makes when the Colts were unable to shake Phillip Rivers in the AFC playoff game at Indy. Robert Mathis and Raheem Brock are good when Freeney is drawing attention to the other side. When he is not there, both are reduced to "pretty good" pass rushers. Look for the Colts to add at least one draft pick at this position. Rookie Kenyata Dawson did well and both he and Josh Thomas gained a lot of experience when the defense battled through multiple injuries. Same for Jeff Charleston, a two year vet from Idaho State. But Thomas hasn't "wowed" anyone and may be too slow to make the impact necessary for the defensive scheme.

LB - 6 Gary Brackett, Rob Morris and Freddy Keiaho, along with young Clint Sessions and Rocky Boiman collaboratively get the job done. I think the Colts have the nucleus and depth pretty much established at this position,. Rookies Ramon Guzman and Victor Worsley didn't see a ton of action, so their overall value is unknown at present, but they do add to the young depth of the Colt defense. I would have suspected that if an unexpected talent was sitting there at rounds 3 through 5, they pull the trigger. But with questions at OL and the overall health of Marvin and Freeney, plus long term future of Dallas Clark, I'm not so sure anymore.

SS - 6 The Colts are deep here. Melvin Bullit showed great promise, Matt Giordano is lightning quick and gaining more confidence with each game. AAntoine Bethea is a monster who is going into his third year with unlimited potential. Rookie Brandon Condren wasn't heard about much this season, so it remains to be seen if he is still around.

FS - 9 Bob Sanders. Nuff said. Giordano backs up this position.

CB - 4 For most of the year, I thought the Colt secondary was their strong suit defensively. Good depth and the starters were having great games. Then came the losses to New England and San Diego (both times). Tim Jennings was burned in the New England and San Diego game repeatedly. Jenning will survive so long as they utilize him against WR's around 5-11 to 6-2. After that, he is a liability. Michael Coe showed significant improvement this past year and at 6-0 isn't too small to match up against the taller WR's in the league. But other than those two and starters Hayden and Jackson, the Colts need more playmakers.

PK - 9 Hunter the punter is solid.....when he does get the chance.

Boiled down matrix:

Offense
QB - P9
RB - P3
WR - P4
OT - P4
OG - P3
TE - P4
C - P4
FB - P6

Defense

DT - P5
DE - P4
LB - P6
SS - P6
FS - P9
CB - P4
PK - P9

2008 NFL Mock Draft v3.0

2008-01-15T14:04:00.000-05:00

Should be quite an interesting and unpredictable draft in April. Why? There are many, many solid free agents available this year, especially on defense. Lance Briggs, Terrell Suggs and Asante Samuel, just to name a few. In addition, there is an exorbitant amount of underclassmen declaring early for the NFL draft. Much of the expected top 32 picks (aside from maybe the top 4 or 5) are extremely close in talent level - at least going INTO the combine in Indy this coming February.

When you break it down like that, you can see many players being lumped together in that #5 to #20 pick range, with perhaps many teams trying to stay true to team needs but going for the best overall talent.

From picks #21 on down, much the same applies. Which basically helps lay the foundation for a very deep draft. Those expected to go early in the first or midway through the second round, can fall down in the 3rd to 4th rounds very easily. And barring a completely stunning combine by ALL of the top 3 QB candidates, I don't think more than two will go in the first round. I really don't.

In fact, I see some teams opting to wait until the 2nd or 3rd and then snatching up my 2008 version of Marques Colston: Joe Flacco, QB from Delaware. A smart team would certainly do well snatching a tall, rugged, mentally sharp, fundamentally sound QB in a later round rather than pursuing a 1st round (and expensive) QB draft.

The draft kicks off with Bill Parcells and the Dolphins, so we could see all hell break loose from the very outset ! Could be the most unpredictable draft in many a year unless the combine really sorts everything out.

1. Miami Dolphins - Glen Dorsey**, DT, Miami

** Anyone else wondering why Jerry Jones would allow Bill Parcells to "raid the store" for his new staff in Miami? Hmmm. It gives me a serious gut feeling that Jones & Parcells have an arrangement of some sort. Nothing nefarious, but since both are pretty good friends and can help the other out (and are from opposing conferences) it seems logical. Parcells rebuilds through multiple picks and Jerry Jones has the deep pockets to get a top player.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, DT, OT, WR, QB

2. St. Louis Rams - Chris Long, DE, Virginia
The Rams need defense more than a potential backup for Orlando Pace.

TEAM NEEDS: DT, ILB, WR, CB, OT

3. Atlanta Falcons - Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
There is so many ways the Falcons could go here - and much will be determined on whether or not Miami trades down - but if they have a shot at McFadden, I doubt they pass on him. The Falcons would do well to grab McFadden here and pick up Joe Flacco in the second or third round for their QB of the future.

TEAM NEEDS: QB, RB, OT, OG, DT, ILB, K, CB

4. Oakland Raiders - Jake Long, OL, Michigan
Not sure what the Raiders will do here, but they do need help protecting the QB and with Sapp retired they need to add to the DT positon. Jake Long is just too good a long-term benefit to pass.

TEAM NEEDS: DT, WR, DE, OT, OC, SS

5. Kansas City Chiefs - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.

There are many ways the Chiefs could go with this pick. Many are harping on the fact that Brodie Croyle isn't the answer. But any QB under the pass rushing attack he was subjected to this past season won't succeed. Not to mention the running game. So the Chiefs have to shore up the Oline first.

TEAM NEEDS: OT, CB, OG, OC, DB, LB, WR

6. New York Jets - Derrick Harvey, DE/OLB, Florida
Mangini will steal the pick that his mentor/rival Bellicheat coveted most. The Jets get an immediate monster that can add immense flexibility to the Jet defense.

TEAM NEEDS: OG, DE, ILB, OLB, DT, CB

7. N.E. Patriots(from SF) - Mike Jenkins, CB, USF
The rich just keep on getting richer. Although this is more of a need that it would appear because of Asante Samuels pending departure. If Derrick Harvey is available at this pick, the Pats pick him instead.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, OLB, RB

8. Baltimore Ravens - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
I'm not convince ANY of the QB's will go first round in this draft because none of them stand out exceedingly well -unless the combine proves different, like it did for Jay Culter in 2005. But at this point, Ryan is tagged as probably the best bet of the three top candidates IF the Ravens go high for a QB. I'm thinking they may surprise us and take a CB. And do not be surprised at a trade down since this draft is loaded with talent - much of it due to the large amount of early-out underclassmen. Then again, the Ravens DO have 10 picks in the 2008.

TEAM NEEDS: OT, OLB, DE, CB, QB, WR,

9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
Toss a dart on a Bengal defensive chart. Wherever it lands is as good a place to start as any other.

TEAM NEEDS: DEFENSE, period. DT, OLB, CB, DE, Then MAYBE a TE.

10. New Orleans Saints - Kenny Phillips, S, Miami or Vernon Gholston, DE,OSU When the Saints draft this year, the word "defense" will be a near perpetual one. The Saints take the best defensive player available at this spot, the next spot, the next spot and......well, you get the idea.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, ILB, OLB, DE, OT, OG

11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
Lee Evans will be the happiest of all to see this pick. Well, him and the Bills fans, coach, OC, QB and Marshawn Lynch.

TEAM NEEDS: WR, TE, OLB, CB, DT
12. Denver Broncos - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
Coach Shanahan won't want to give any other team a shot at a potentially great Bronco running back, so this pick would not surprise me at all. However, the Broncos also have needs on the offensive and defensive line, linebacker - not to mention getting his young QB some weapons at the wideout position.

Perhaps a combo of FA work and the draft will have to do the trick.

TEAM NEEDS: DT, OT, ILB, OLB, S, WR, OC

13. Carolina Panthers - Eric Young, OG, Tennessee
I have struggled on whether defensive or offensive line is the place to start for the Panthers. Could go either way, depending on the combine results.

TEAM NEEDS: OTm, OG, DE, FS, QB

14. Chicago Bears - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

The Bears MUST draft a running back or they go nowhere again. Their QB's can't pass when defenses know they can't run. And even if the Bears had LT, he couldn't run very effectively behind the current Bears offensive line. It's not all on the QB in Chicago, and the Bears would be wise to re-sign Grossman to an incentive based contrack, let him battle Kyle Orton, drop Brian Griese and bring in someone like Joe Flacco via the draft. But the offensive line and running game is priority #1.

TEAM NEEDS: OT, RB, SS, QB, OG, FS

15. Detroit Lions - Vernon Gholston, DE,Ohio St.
The Lions just allowed teams to pass all over them. Imagine this team with a decent pass rush and secondary, with some offensive line additions. Immediate playoff team - they were oh-so-close until the late swoon this past season.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, DE, DT, ILB, OG

16. Arizona Cardinals - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
The Cards are inching closer to breaking through to the next level. But will they make it in time to take advantage of that prolific offense? This should help.

TEAM NEEDS: DE, OLB,CB, OLT, DT

17. Minnesota Vikings - Kentwaan Balmer, NT, N. Carolina
The Vikes could go WR with this pick, but only if there is a solid chance of getting someone in the mold of last year's rookie receiver Sidney Rice. Adrius Bowman or James Hardy are possibilities here, but I think DeSean Jackson is out because his size limits his ability coming off the line. Most NFL Dbacks will have near the same or better speed as Jackson, and they're much more physical than anyone he faced in college. To gain an advantage, the Vikings must go for a taller, more physical receiver. Perhaps Marcus Monk in the next round since the Vikings DO NEED a defensive tackle to create pressure in the middle.

TEAM NEEDS: WR, DL, S

18. Houston Texans - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
This will be either a RB or OL pick, but either way the Texans are a team on the rise. If they can add one of each it could help them contend for a playoff spot immediately. I think Mendenhall will be too good a risk to pass up.

TEAM NEEDS: RB, OT, FS, CB, DE

19. Philadelphia Eagles - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State
Good prospect for the Eagle secondary AND he can be utilized as a punt/kick returner. Eagles might be tempted to swing for the fences on a #1 WR with this pick depending on the combine results.

TEAM NEEDS: DE, TE, OT, CB, LB

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Adarius Bowman, WR, Oklahoma State
They lack weapons in their passing attack no matter the QB. Even a big TE would help in this slot. I think they can afford to wait on trying to pick up another QB.

TEAM NEEDS: DT, QB, RB, WR, OT

21. Washington Redskins - Kentwaan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
Either a top corner or defensive lineman is called for at this pick. Trying to help bolster the run defense is a good move, but so is trying to regain some depth in the secondary.

TEAM NEEDS: DE, DT, CB, WR, OG, OT

22. Dallas Cowboys (Cleve.) - Aquib Calib, CB, Kansas
This may be the Dolphins pick if the trade I mentioned earlier comes to fruition. If not, the 'Boys must replace Jacques Reeves. Even though I'm a Boilermaker, Reeves was (and is) bad. Think of Reeves as a slower, more helpless Jason David!

TEAM NEEDS: CB, RB, WR

23. Seattle Seahawks - Martellus Bennett, TE, Texas A&M
If Mike Holmgren stays he can help his offense immensely by adding a playmaking tight end. Otherwise, an addition to the secondary is the pick here.

TEAM NEEDS: OG, DT, WR, RB, DE

24. Pittsburgh Steelers - Jeff Otah, OT, Pitt
Can't think of a better fit or a need that is filled than addint a solid OT with this pick.

TEAM NEEDS: OG, DE, WR, ILB, CB,

25. Tennessee Titans - Terrell Thomas, CB, USC
Looks like Pacman isn't returning anytime soon, and the Titans do need secondary help. But they also need targets for Vince Young, so they could snag a WR with this pick.

TEAM NEEDS: WR, DT, DT, OGm, TE, CB

26. Jacksonville Jaguars - James Hardy, WR, Indiana
Hardy has personal baggage, so be advised. That and a poor showing at the combine could send him spiraling down to around the 5th or 6th round. Then hte Jags also might want to add to their secondary.

TEAM NEEDS: DE, WR, CB

27. Dallas Cowboys - Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
More work on the secondary, unless they take a corner earlier or trade to Miami.

TEAM NEEDS: CBm, RB, WR

28. S.F. 49ers (from Indy) - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
Look for Mario Manningham, Marcus Monk or D.J. hall landing here if they have better combines.

TEAM NEEDS: WR, DT, DE, OG, OC

29. San Diego Chargers - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
The Chargers were picked apart by opposing passing attacks and need to solidify that part of their team. Cromartie anchors a good start, and Cason can only help even more.

TEAM NEEDS: ILB, DEm, WR

30. Green Bay Packers - Fred Davis, TE, USC
If Favre jad a standout, go-to TE this past year, the Packers may have gone undefeated in the NFC. Add the talent and size of Fred Davis to a now productive running game and dangerous wideouts, and the Packer offense is extremely potent. Help along the offensive line is needed as well.

efensive help in the middle of the field, and the ability to pick the RB or TE off the line is critical for the G-men as they blitz constantly. Crable should help.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, OT, TE

31. New York Giants - Shawn Crable, LB, Michigan
Defensive help in the middle of the field and the ability to pick the RB or TE coming off the opposing line is critical for the G-men as they love to blitz. Crable should help and make Justin Tuck even more dangerous.

TEAM NEEDS: CB, OT, FS, OLB

32. New England Patriots - Forfeited

Incredible Loss Incredibly Inexplicable

2008-01-13T22:26:00.000-05:00

Not sure what I just witnessed a little less than 7 hours ago. The defending Super Bowl champions were gloriously ahead 7-0 against the San Diego Chargers, in the Divisional Playoff game. Then the Colts were poised to score again, quickly moving downfield, getting ready for an additional body blow to the Chargers in the form of a 14-0 lead. At home. In the Dome.

And on a brilliant pass and catch from our legendary tandem, Manning to Harrison, we watch in as the sleek Harrison darts across the middle with the ball. Ready to turn the corner, he spins away from a tackle, is hit, and the ball pops out and lands on the Dome turf. Rookie wideout Gonzales is oh-so-close but cannot reach it in time. The ball is recovered by the Chargers.

Let the madness begin.

Indianapolis finally had its star wide receiver back. The offensive line is healthy and whole for the first time a long while. The defense is still without Dwight Freeney, but everyone else is seemingly ready and able to go again. It is all set up for us.

One of San Diego's major weapons, tight end Antonio Gates, is nearly a non-factor with a toe injury. The remarkable Ladanian Tomlinson is rendered a spectator along the sidelines for the entire second half, and the young but still erratic QB Rivers goes out with a leg injury in the late portion of the 3rd quarter. The Colts special teams play has been, well....special throughout the game. It must be destined for us to move on to play the Patriots yet again.

Someone just forgot to tell Billy Volek and Legedu Nanjee. Damn that's hard to type. Not because of the spelling, but because of who they represent. Nobodies off the bench. Stop gap measures. Two guys even Charger fans didn't expect to see today. And along with Michael Turner and Vincent Jackson the Chargers answered every score the Colts put on the scoreboard. They all came through and laid a hurting on the Colts in the form of a 28-24 heartbreaking stunner in the Dome.

The crowd was the LOUDEST I have ever heard it. Just completely deafening, causing so much confusion in the SD offense that timeouts were wasted, offsides were called numerous times and audibles were impossible. Peyton Manning threw for over 400 yards and three TD's. Still, they drove and scored. Against a Colts defense that was the hardest to score against and the toughest to move the ball against in the entire NFL this season.

It just wasn't meant to be after it looked so apparently obvious that it was.

No way to explain it other than it was a completely inexplicable failure to capitalize on so many opportunities. Home field. Roaring crowd. QB on fire, hitting on 14 of 14 opening passes. Special teams playing well.

But the turnovers and inadequate defensive front pressure created the opportunity for San Diego to snatch one away. So did the bizarre penalties by veteran defensive players like Bob Sanders - the NFL's defensive player of the year. Unimaginable and inexplainable.

And when our offense could not put the ball in the endzone three times on drives inside SD redzone territory, we paid with a season-ending loss.

That rainy triumph in Florida seems even more distant now. Off-season has come three weeks earlier than anticipated or desired. And what tops everything off with more bitter taste is the fact that it might lead to another Super Bowl for that "other" team.

Oh God, how miserable it will be to hear that for the next month and on into next season. Please God, do not make us suffer that tortureous fate.

I beg of you. Make them fall short of perfect. It would be the healing salve of this painful loss. This incredible loss that seems so incredibly inexplicable.

Early 2008 Sports Musings

2008-01-11T18:00:00.000-05:00

It's Divisional Playoff Eve.....and the Colts get ready to make it back to the Super Bowl for the second year in a row. San Diego's Chargers come to town and will meet up in what could be the final game in the Hoosier/RCA Dome - unless both Indy and Jacksonville win - which would give the Colts one more chance to play in that venue. Either way is fine, so long as the get back to the Super Bowl and win their second in a row.

Imagining the Indianapolis skyline (what little of one there is !) will be hard to do without seeing the Dome as part of it. When I left for Basic Training in the summer of 1983 (August) it was just being completed and the roof had just been inflated, so it was interesting to see what it did to the downtown area. I never had he chance to go to a Colts game until December 2004 - over 20 years later - because I was overseas 95% of the time and just never had the opportunity.

But I picked a great one for the first visit. Peyton Manning setting the TD passing record, breaking Dan Marino's old mark, as the Colts came from behind to knock off the Drew Brees and Ladanian Tomlinson-led Chargers. The crowd was as wild and loud as any I have ever been a part of (and I've been to many) in different venues I have visited around the world.

The Dome is just plain LOUD.

So at any rate, the Colts are poised to make another championship run, and the Pacers continue to disgrace the city with horrible play, horrible players and horrible decision making by both players and management. I never thought the Pacer franchise would sink this low....but I haven't a desire to go see a Pacer's game since Reggie left, and every couple of weeks they give me additional reasons not to bother.

The Purdue men's basketball team is doing well with a solid group of young players that will give opponents fits with pressure defense and a never-say-die attitude. They should be a top three B10 team (minimum) the next four years, and a player in the NCAA tournament as well.

For the Boiler football team, what a disaster. I just can't bear to talk about it. Underachieving players with underachieving coaching and an AD that has no clue to bringing in a coach that could take it to the next level. Instead, he brings in a Purdue assistant retread, from world reknowned Eastern Kentucky ??? Yep. That Eastern Kentucky. A true powerhouse !

So on the 11th of January at around 6:30 p.m., as I get ready to relax, watch 3:10 to Yuma following ABC Propaganda,er, News and get set for playoff football weekend. Should be a fun weekend - so long as my Colts win !!!

2008 NFL Mock Draft v2.0

2008-01-10T19:03:00.000-05:00

The draft order will be a bit up in the air at the #3, #4 and #5 picks. Some are reporting that there will be coin flips involved to sort it all out, but I am not too certain what will happen. As it stands now, I am going strictly on how they finished.

1. Dallas -Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas

A deal with Miami's Bill Parcells nets Jerry Jones the first pick and Darren McFadden, while the Dolphins get much needed multiple draft picks to turn the fortunes of the lowly Dolphins around. Outside chance Parcells goes ahead and takes Glen Dorsey at #1, but I doubt it.

2. St. Louis - Jake Long, OT, Michigan

The Rams keep seeing Orlando Pace getting hurt and wrecking the protection and running game. This will help combat that problem.

Also worth considering: Chris Long, DE, Virginia

3. Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College

There is a slight chance that, depending on who Blank brings in as GM and coach, the Falcons trade down. They could help bolster their defense with more draft picks, and then add a QB in round 2. (Can you say Joe Flacco in round two? I knew you could.)

4. Oakland Raiders - Chris Long, DE, Virginia

Just seems like the right fit, although DT and the offensive line need help as well.

Also worth considering: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State

5. Kansas City Chiefs - Glen Dorsey, DT, LSU

How lucky can you get? Needs outweigh getting arguably the best available player in the first four picks of the draft, and the Chiefs benefit. More ironic is the fact KC wasn't in desperate need at this position.

Also worth considering: Malcom Jenkins, CB, Ohio State

6. N.Y. Jets - James Lauranaitis, MLB, Ohio State

The Jet faithful are now nearly in a full panic mode as they see McFadden gone. However, it could help bolster the LB corps and the defense. The Jets have so many varied needs that they'll go for who they consider is the best available athlete.Also worth considering: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

7. NE Patriots (from SF) - Derrick Harvey, LB, Florida

The Patriots need to replace their linebackers, two of which have gone just about as far as they can. This guy is a tweener on the DLine and OLB. Perfect flexibility and versatility for Bellicheat, er, chick.

Also worth considering: Lauranitis or Mauluagua, one of which would be remaining.

8. Baltimore Ravens - Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.

Tough call here. I think they can do okay with QB's Boller and Smith, but they need help at WR and depth on OL. The defense may stand some help in the secondary as well, but that can come later.

Also worth considering: Wideouts DeSean Jackson, Malcom Kelly or Mario Manningham

9. Cincinnati Bengals - Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC

Defense, defense, defense. IF they draft one player for offense, it would be a wasted pick. This team needs huge help on defense.

Also worth considering: Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State

10. New Orleans Saints - Kenny Phillips, S, Miami

Another team needing much help on defense, as their offense is pretty much set with the exception of a #3 WR and a big TE. But those can afford to be overlooked early.

Also worth considering: Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio St.

11. Buffalo Bills - Malcom Kelly, WR, Oklahoma

Cannot pass up a big wide receiver to help the offense move the chains and let the defense rest. Also frees up Lee Evans a bit more.

Also worth considering: Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas

12. Denver Broncos - Adarius Bowman, WR, Ok. State

The Broncos could go in one of many directions in this position. They need some added depth at offensive line, the tackle position on defense, the secondary and even wide receiver. With Rod Smith retiring and Javon Walker yapping about wanting to be traded, the receiver position just might supplant the need for a defensive pick.

Also worth considering: Adarius Bowman, WR, Ok. St. or Pat Sims, DT, Auburn

13. Carolina Panthers - Sam Baker, OT, USC

Offensive line additions early on. Plenty of solid candidates available and with a 1st round pick.

Also worth considering: Alex Boone, OT, Ohio St. or Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC

14. Chicago Bears - Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon

The Bears need a running game, then help on the offensive line. Fix those two positions, and the three QB's they had last year would be just fine.

Also worth considering: Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

15. Detroit Lions - Calais Campbell, DE, Miami

Defensive line and secondary needs bolstered.

Also worth considering: Reggie Smith, CB, Oklahoma

16. Arizona Cardinals - Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC

Same for the Cards. DLine and secondary help.

Also worth considering: Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn

17. Minnesota Vikings - Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.

It's going to be all about stretching the field with capable wideouts.

Also worth considering: Early Doucet, WR, LSU

18. Houston Texans - Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas

Also worth considering: Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

19. Philadelphia Eagles - Rey Maulugua, LB, USC or Keith Rivers, LB, USC

The Eagles have to shore up the middle of their defense, but are also going to target a wideout. Mauluagu hasn't announced his intention of entering the NFL draft yet, but one or the other might end up in Philly.

Also worth considering: Early Doucet, WR, LSU

20-Tampa Bay - Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

The Bucs need added firepower in the receiving corps and Devin Thomas will make a solid impact. He's tough, sturdy, doesn't mind getting dirty and has good hands. Could be the sleeper of all the wideouts coming out of college this year.

Also worth considering: Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan St.

21. Washington Redskins - Mike Jenkins, CB, USF

He jumped ahead of Malcom Jenkins after the poor performance vs LSU

Also worth considering: Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

22. Miami Dolphins (from Dallas via Cleveland) - Trades down

23. Pittsburgh Steelers - Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh

Also worth considering: Michael Oher, OT, Mississippi

24. Tennessee Titans - Early Doucet, WR, LSU

The Titans need a sure-handed receiver who can get open and pick up first downs.

Also worth considering: Mario Urruttia, WR, Louisville

25. Seattle Seahawks - Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn

If Holmgren stays, he will want to add a weapon at TE. If he doesn't stay, who knows.

Also worth considering: Eric Young, OG, Tennessee

26. N.Y Giants - Ali Highsmith, LB, LSU

Giants defense getting tougher all the time. Will Strahan come back? If not, they go for a DE.

Also worth considering: Frank Okam, DT, Texas

27. San Diego Chargers - Rivers or Mualuaga, LB,USC

Good overall team depth, but help at LB and secondary depth is needed. If either of the the Trojan LB's slip this far, the Chargers will be extremely delighted.

Also worth considering: Antoine Case, CB, Arizona

28. Jacksonville Jaguars - James Hardy, WR, Indiana

I don't see Hardy making it in the NFL. But I could be wrong.

Also worth considering: Shawn Crable, OLB, Michigan

29. Green Bay Packers - Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois

Also worth considering: Tracey Porter, CB, Indiana

30. San Francisco (from Indy) - Eric Young, OG, Tennessee

Dead last in passing offense for the entire 2007, it wouldn't surprise me if they go WR with their first pick. But they do need OLine and DLine help too.

Wallace Gilberry, DE, Alabama

31. Miami (from Dallas) Trades down

32. Forfeited by New England

ROUND TWO PROJECTIONS:

33. Miami - Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware

34. St. Louis - Vernon Gholston, DT, Ohio St.

35. Atlanta - Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville

36. Oakland - Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma

37. Kansas City - Alex Boone, OT, Ohio St.

38. N.Y. Jets - Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers

39. San Francisco - Mario Urrittia, WR, Louisville

40. Baltimore - Andre Woodsen, QB, Kentucky

41. Cincinnati - Dan Connor, LB, Penn St.

42. New Orleans - Aquib Talib,CB, Kansas

43. Buffalo - Shawn Crable, LB, Michigan

44. Denver - Reggie Smith, DB, Oklahoma

45. Carolina - Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU

46. Chicago - Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt

47. Detroit - Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy

48. Arizona - Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona

49. Minnesota - Cliff Avril, DE, Purdue

50. Atlanta - Charles Godfrey, CB, Iowa

51. Philadelphia - Steve Slaton, RB, W. Virginia

52. Tampa Bay - Erin Henderson, LB, Maryland

53. Washington - Gosder Cherilus,OT, Boston College

54. Cleveland - Jamaal Charles, RB, Texas

55. Pittsburgh - DeJuan Tribble, CB, Boston College

56. Tennessee - Kentwan Balmer, DT, N. Carolina

57. Seattle - Martellus Bennett, TE, Texas A&M

58. N.Y. Giants - Mike Hart, RB, Michigan

59. Jacksonville - Patrick Lee, CB, Auburn

60. San Diego - Ezra Butler, LB, Nevada

61. Green Bay - Marcus Griffin, CB, Texas

62. Indianapolis - Marcus Monk, WR, Arkansas

63. Miami(via Dallas) - Chris Ellis, DE, Va Tech

64. New England - Phillip Wheeler, LB, Georgia Tech

ROUND THREE PROJECTIONS:

65. Miami - Roy Schuening, OG, Oregon St.

66. St. Louis - Terrell Thomas, CB, USC

67. Atlanta - Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska

68. Oakland - Red Bryant, Texas A&M

69. Kansas City - Brandon Flower, CB, Va. Tech

70. N.Y. Jets - Fred Davis, TE, USC

71. San Francisco - Bruce Davis, DE, UCLA

72. Buffalo - Beau Bell, LB, UNLV

73. Cincinatti - Geno Hayes, LB, Florida St.

74. New Orleans - Jerod Mayo, LB, Tennessee

75. Buffalo - Adrian Arrington, WR, Michigan

76. Minnesota - Barry Richardson, OT, Clemson

77. Carolina - Tony Hills, OT, Texas

78. Chicago - Jacob Hester, FB, LSU

79. Detroit - Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina

80. Arizona - Kendall Langford, DT, Hampton

81. Minnesota - Chevis Jackson, CB, LSU

82. Houston - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tenn. St.

83. Philadelphia - Hilee Taylor, DE, N. Carolina

84. Tampa Bay - Jonathan Goff, LB, Vanderbilt

85. Washington - Jason Jones, DE, E. Michigan

86. Cleveland - Owen Schmitt, FB, W. Virginia

87. Pittsburgh - Vince Hall, LB, Va Tech

88. Tennessee - Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida

89. Tampa Bay - Erik Ainge, QB, Tennessee

90. N.Y. Giants - Greg Carr, WR, Florida St.

91. Jacksonville - Justin King, CB, Penn St.

92. San Diego - Trae Williams, CB, USF

93. Green Bay - Martin Rucker, TE, Missouri

94. Indianapolis - DeMario Pressley, N.C. State

95. Dallas - Darnell Terrell, CB, Missouri

96. New England - D.J. Hall, WR, Alabama