TheDailyBlitz.com: Baltimore Ravens Archives

Bills just say no to T.O. in 2010

Not surprisingly, the Buffalo Bills will not bring back 36-year-old receiver Terrell Owens in 2010, per Sal Maiorana of the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle.

"We wanted to inform all three players [T.O., Josh Reed and Ryan Denney] ahead of the start of the free agency period so they could begin making their plans," general manager Buddy Nix said.

After a quiet (both on and off the field) first half, Owens had a relatively productive second half catching 32 passes for 548 yards and four touchdowns in his final eight games. He finished the season with a team-high 55 receptions and 829 yards.

Some teams rumored to be potential landing spots for T.O. are the Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Weekly Blitz - Week 17

In picking NFL games against the spread (ATS), 2009 wasn't quite the year that 2008 was for me. After going 31-18-2 ATS in 2008, I'm only two games above .500 this year.

The challenge of picking winners in week 17 is determining the motivation and intention of the teams. That said, all of my picks involve teams that will follow the Herm Edwards rule, i.e., "you play to win the game" as opposed to trying to keep their players healthy heading into the post-season.

Here are my week 17 picks:

Ravens -10.5 (over Raiders): The Ravens face a must-win situation against the Raiders, who are still the league's most dysfunctional franchise despite some impressive wins this year (Steelers, Bengals, Eagles, etc.). With a renewed focus on the ground (109 rushes to 81 passes in the past three weeks), Ray Rice and the Ravens should be able to exploit the Raiders rush defense that has allowed the most rushing touchdowns in the NFL. The Ravens have beat bad teams handily this year and week 17 won't be any different as I predicted a 31-10 victory at FootBaltimore.com.

Vikings -7.5 (over Giants): The Giants will be without Brandon Jacobs, who's had a disappointing year. And Ralph Vacchiano of the NY Daily News says of Ahmad Bradshaw, "I don’t expect him to play, but if he does I think you can expect just a few carries for him..." Meanwhile, the Vikings, who have lost three of their past four games, need to win to clinch a first-round bye and to establish some momentum heading into the playoffs, which should not be discounted.

Steelers -3 (over Dolphins): The Steelers have won two close games against good teams and are possibly building some momentum heading into a playoff run. While they need some help to make the playoffs, they need to take care of business first by beating the Dolphins in a 1 p.m. matchup. Hines Ward says he will play and Santonio Holmes is on an eight-game streak of 74+ receiving yards. With an inexperienced Dolphins secondary, the Steelers should be able to air it out. In addition, Ricky Williams is questionable with a shoulder injury.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: Week 17 RB rankings

While most fantasy football leagues conduct their championship game in week 16, some leagues still hold their title game in week 17. That creates the extra challenge of trying to forecast playing time in addition to evaluating matchups.

That said, here are our top five fantasy running backs for week 17:

1. Chris Johnson, Titans (at Seahawks): No player will be more watched in week 17 than "Every Coach's Dream." Johnson is 128 yards shy of 2,000 and 233 yards shy of Eric Dickerson's record of 2,105. With a streak of ten straight games of 100+ yards, 128 seems like a sure thing. With a season-high performance of 228, the single-season record seems like a possible stretch goal. In the past 10 games, Johnson has also scored 11 touchdowns.

2. Ray Rice, Ravens (at Raiders): Rice was one of the guys that I expected to have a breakout year and I suggested you target him in your fantasy football draft in the pre-season. Now in a meaningful win-and-you're-in game against the run-friendly Raiders should allow Rice to cap his breakout season. No team has allowed more rushing touchdowns than the Raiders, who have allowed 21 rushing scores.

3. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Browns): Pocket Hercules has a nose for the endzone reaching pay dirt 16 times this season. Of course, his most famous TD was the one that he didn't score. But only Adrian Peterson has more rushing TDs (17) than Jones-Drew (15) has. Although the Browns have finished strong with their three-game winning streak, they have allowed the second-most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season. Despite the Jaguars chances of making the playoffs being remote due to the need of help/tie-breakers, there is plenty of incentive to give MJD a healthy dose of touches in week 17.

4. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (vs Giants): The Vikings have stumbled to the regular-season finish line losing three of their final four games. With another loss, there's a good chance that the Vikings could enter the playoffs without a bye. In other words, they have incentive to play AD and the rest of the Vikings offensive (and defensive) starters. Peterson leads the NFL with 17 rushing touchdowns and only two teams have allowed more rushing touchdowns than the Giants, who gave up a 206-yard game against Carolina's Jonathan Stewart last week.

5. Frank Gore, 49ers (at Rams): Along with the Raiders, no team has allowed more rushing touchdowns than the Rams (21). And the Rams have allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season. In the past three weeks, Gore has 345 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He also has nine receptions for 110 yards during that span. If the one-win Rams fall behind early, Gore should be the recipient of plenty of carries and generate a ton of fantasy points.

Click here to view our full running back rankings for week 17.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: Week 14 WR Start'em

Here are four wide receivers that could have a big week in week 14:

Derrick Mason, Ravens (vs Lions): In need of a bounce-back game, Ravens QB Joe Flacco will get just what the doctor ordered: the Lions' pass defense. And Derrick Mason, his top target, should be thankful. Last week, Mason caught only two passes for 13 yards. In the previous two games, however, Mason caught 16 passes for 204 yards and a touchdown. No team has allowed more passing yards (274.8 ypg) or more passing TDs (28) than the Lions this season.

Pierre Garcon, Colts (vs Broncos): While Reggie Wayne is being covered by Champ Bailey, Garcon could be the receiver getting the most looks on Sunday. In the past four weeks, Garcon has 20 receptions for 357 yards and two TDs. In all four games during that span, Garcon has posted double-digit fantasy points.

Chad Ochocinco, Bengals (vs Vikings): In the past three weeks, the Vikings have allowed the 10th-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers. And Ochocinco, who had four straight games with 2-6 fantasy points, bounced back last week against Cleveland with nine receptions for 137 yards and one touchdown.

Santonio Holmes, Steelers (vs Browns): Hines Ward's status for Thursday's game is "very questionable," according to coach Mike Tomlin. Assuming Ward doesn't play, Holmes will get more targets and he's been productive with Ward in the lineup. In the past five weeks, Holmes has had 6+ receptions and 74+ yards every week. Last week against Oakland, Holmes had his best game of the year (8-149-1).

For my running backs to start in week 14, click here. Or click here for my running backs to sit in week 14.

Check back later for our position-by-position rankings for week 14.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: Top 50 WRs for Week 13

With the fantasy football playoffs on the horizon, here are my top 5 wide receivers for week 13:

1. Randy Moss, Patriots (at Dolphins): In his first matchup against the Dolphins, who rank in the bottom 10 in passing yards allowed (233 ypg), Moss had six receptions for 147 yards and one TD. On the season, Moss leads the NFL in receiving yards (992) and is only one behind the leaders in TD receptions (eight). After getting their ass whooped on prime-time TV, expect the Patriots, Tom Brady, Moss & Co. to come out swinging.

2. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Jaguars): Johnson is one of the league's most complete receivers and perhaps the most underrated. This week, Johnson gets a favorable matchup against the Jaguars, who have allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to receivers this season. On the season, Johnson ranks fourth in the league in receiving yards (945).

3. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (vs Vikings): The Vikings have been without Antoine Winfield, the team's best cornerback, for the past five games. On the season, the Vikings have allowed the 10th-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers. My expectation is for QB Kurt Warner to return from his concussion as Fitzgerald had his worst game of the season with Matt Leinart as QB last week. Fitzgerald is tied for the league lead in touchdowns (nine) including four TDs in the last three games in which Warner has played.

4. Reggie Wayne, Colts (vs Titans): Wayne is second in receptions (79), second in receiving yards (987) and tied for first in touchdowns (nine) in the league. In addition to their improvements with Vince Young under center, the Titans have improved on the defensive side of the ball as they are healthier now. Only the Lions (27) have allowed more receiving touchdowns than the Titans (25) on the season. During their five-game winning streak, however, the Titans have allowed only the 18th-most fantasy points to opposing receivers.

5. Sidney Rice, Vikings (at Cardinals): In three of his past six games, Rice has 136 receiving yards or more including a game with 201yards. With the exception of his game at Green Bay, Rice has had 89 yards or more in five of his past six. Favre and Rice have built chemistry quickly and they have a favorable matchup against the Cardinals, who have allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to receivers this season.

Click here for top 50 wide receivers for week 13.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: Top 40 RBs for Week 13

With the fantasy football playoffs on the horizon, here are my top 5 running backs for week 13:

1. Thomas Jones, Jets (at Bills): The first time that Jones faced the Bills this season, he rushed for 210 yards and a touchdown. The Bills have allowed the most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season and only the Raiders have allowed more rushing TDs than the Bills (16). Since the Jets want QB Mark Sanchez to air it out less and less (his attempts have gone from 35 to 30 to 21 to 17), Jones better bring his lunch-pail tonight.

2. Chris Johnson, Titans (at Colts): As well as Johnson has played in the past six weeks (125+ rushing yards every week), you can consider Johnson 1(a) -- not #2 -- in this week's rankings. During their five-game winning streak, Johnson has rushed for seven touchdowns. Although the Colts have a middle-of-the-pack run defense on the season, they've given up the 11th-most fantasy points to opposing RBs in the past three weeks.

3. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (vs Buccaneers): DeAngelo has cooled off a bit with no touchdowns in the past three weeks and only one 100-yard game during that span. The first time that Williams faced the Buccaneers this season, he carried the ball 30 times for 152 yards and two scores. Expect more of the same against the league's third-worst rush defense.

4. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at Cardinals): The Cardinals were the league's top-ranked run defense earlier in the season, but they have dropped to 14th in the NFL against the run (108.6 ypg allowed). In four of the past five weeks, they have allowed an opposing running back to eclipse the century mark. Surprisingly, Peterson has only three 100-yard games on the season, but he is second in the league with 12 rushing touchdowns.

5. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (vs Texans): MJD has rushed for more rushing touchdowns (13) than any other running back. (Of course, none of those are as famous as the TD that he didn't score.) That said, Jones-Drew faces a Texans run defense that turned itself around after the first three weeks. In week 3, however, MJD rushed for 119 yards and three touchdowns.

Click here for top 40 running backs for week 13.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Fantasy Football: Top 25 QBs for Week 13

It's time to put up or shut up. If you haven't yet clinched a playoff berth in your fantasy league, it likely comes down to week 13 for you as most fantasy leagues start their playoffs in week 14.

And to paraphrase Bill Parcells, this is why you buy those cheat sheets, do those mock drafts, etc. -- to get into (and win in) the playoffs.

Here are my top 5 quarterbacks for week 13:

1. Peyton Manning, Colts (vs Titans): Manning is the only QB to average over 300 passing yards per game (310.5) and is second in passing touchdowns (24). While the Titans and their defense have been playing better lately, they have allowed the second-most passing touchdowns (25) this season.

2. Brett Favre, Vikings (at Cardinals): In his past four games, Favre has thrown 12 touchdowns and no interceptions. On the season, Arizona allows the fourth-most passing yards (258.3 ypg).

3. Drew Brees, Saints (at Redskins): Brees is coming off a five-TD performance against the Patriots in what was arguably the most important regular-season game in team history. Although this week's opponent (Washington) allows the fewest passing yards in the NFL (170.4 ypg), Brees and the Saints offense are firing on all cylinders right now.

4. Tom Brady, Patriots (at Dolphins): Brady failed to connect on a TD pass last week, but he had 332 passing yards against the Dolphins in their first match-up. With targets like Randy Moss and Wes Welker, it's not likely that Brady goes TD-less in back-to-back games.

5. Philip Rivers, Chargers (at Chiefs): Rivers has posted three consecutive 100+ QB ratings and this week he faces the Browns, who have allowed the ninth-most passing yards (233.4 ypg) this season. In the past four games, Rivers has thrown eight touchdowns and only two interceptions.

Click here for top 25 quarterbacks for week 13.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Big Ben to miss Ravens game

Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger, who was knocked out of last week's game due to a concussion, had been cleared to play by the Steelers' medical staff and he participated fully in practice this week.

That said, Roethlisberger will not play against the Ravens in their Sunday Night Football matchup, per Jay Glazer of Fox Sports.

With Charlie Batch out for the remainder of the season, that means Dennis Dixon will get the start in this key divisional matchup.

Both the Steelers, who are 6-4, and the Ravens, who are 5-5, trail the division-leading Cincinnati Bengals, who are 7-3 and hold the head-to-head tie-breaker over both teams.

If Roethlisberger had played, he didn't have as favorable of a fantasy matchup as you might have expected versus a relatively weak Ravens' pass defense. The Ravens have allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks over the past four weeks.

Dixon is a must-sit fantasy-wise and Big Ben's absence downgrades the value of the Steelers' receivers -- Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes and Mike Wallace -- as well as Rashard Mendenhall.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 9

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 9:

1. Tom Brady, Patriots (vs Miami)
2. Peyton Manning, Colts (vs Houston)
3. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (at Tampa Bay)
4. Drew Brees, Saints (vs Carolina)
5. Philip Rivers, Chargers (at NY Giants)
6. Donovan McNabb, Eagles (vs Dallas)
7. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks (vs Detroit)
8. Tony Romo, Cowboys (at Philadelphia)
9. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (at Chicago)
10. Matt Schaub, Texans (at Indianapolis)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 9.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 9

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 9:

1. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (vs Kansas City)
2. Ray Rice, Ravens (at Cincinnati)
3. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (at New Orleans)
4. Michael Turner, Falcons (vs Washington)
5. Ryan Grant, Packers (at Tampa Bay)
6. Brandon Jacobs, Giants (vs San Diego)
7. Chris Johnson, Titans (at San Francisco)
8. Cedric Benson, Bengals (vs Baltimore)
9. Frank Gore, 49ers (vs Tennessee)
10. Pierre Thomas, Saints (vs Carolina)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 9.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 9

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 9:

1. Reggie Wayne, Colts (vs Houston)
2. Randy Moss, Patriots (vs Miami)
3. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (at Chicago)
4. Vincent Jackson, Chargers (at NY Giants)
5. Marques Colston, Saints (vs Carolina)
6. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Indianapolis)
7. DeSean Jackson, Eagles (vs Dallas)
8. Wes Welker, Patriots (vs Miami)
9. Chad Ochocinco, Bengals (vs Baltimore)
10. Greg Jennings, Packers (at Tampa Bay)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 9.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 9

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 9:

1. Dallas Clark, Colts (vs Houston)
2. Antonio Gates, Chargers (at NY Giants)
3. Jason Witten, Cowboys (at Philadelphia)
4. Vernon Davis, 49ers (vs Tennessee)
5. Brent Celek, Eagles (vs Dallas)
6. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (vs Washington)
7. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (vs Carolina)
8. John Carlson, Seahawks (vs Detroit)
9. Fred Davis, Redskins (at Atlanta)
10. Kellen Winslow, Buccaneers (vs Green Bay)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 9.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 9

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 9:

1. Green Bay Packers (at Tampa Bay)
2. New Orleans Saints (vs Carolina)
3. Seattle Seahawks (vs Detroit)
4. Pittsburgh Steelers (at Denver)
5. New England Patriots (vs Miami)
6. San Francisco 49ers (vs Tennessee)
7. Philadelphia Eagles (vs Dallas)
8. Atlanta Falcons (vs Washington)
9. Denver Broncos (vs Pittsburgh)
10. Indianapolis Colts (vs Houston)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 9.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 8:

1. Peyton Manning, Colts (vs San Francisco)
2. Drew Brees, Saints (vs Atlanta)
3. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (vs Minnesota)
4. Matt Schaub, Texans (at Buffalo)
5. Tony Romo, Cowboys (vs Seattle)
6. Philip Rivers, Chargers (vs Oakland)
7. Jay Cutler, Bears (vs Cleveland)
8. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (vs Carolina)
9. David Garrard, Jaguars (at Tennessee)
10. Brett Favre, Vikings (at Green Bay)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 8.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 8:

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at Green Bay)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Tennessee)
3. Steven Jackson, Rams (at Detroit)
4. Steve Slaton, Texans (at Buffalo)
5. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins (at NY Jets)
6. Chris Johnson, Titans (vs Jacksonville)
7. Ray Rice, Ravens (vs Denver)
8. Matt Forte, Bears (vs Cleveland)
9. Kevin Smith, Lions (vs St. Louis)
10. Michael Turner, Falcons (at New Orleans)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 8.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 8:

1. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (vs Carolina)
2. Marques Colston, Saints (vs Atlanta)
3. Reggie Wayne, Colts (vs San Francisco)
4. Mike Sims-Walker, Jaguars (at Tennessee)
5. Miles Austin, Cowboys (vs Seattle)
6. Brandon Marshall, Broncos (at Baltimore)
7. Vincent Jackson, Chargers (vs Oakland)
8. Roddy White, Falcons (at New Orleans)
9. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Buffalo)
10. Sidney Rice, Vikings (at Green Bay)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 8.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 8:

1. Dallas Clark, Colts (vs San Francisco)
2. Owen Daniels, Texans (at Buffalo)
3. Antonio Gates, Chargers (vs Oakland)
4. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (vs Atlanta)
5. Brent Celek, Eagles (vs NY Giants)
6. Jason Witten, Cowboys (vs Seattle)
7. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (at New Orleans)
8. Visanthe Shiancoe, Vikings (at Green Bay)
9. Greg Olsen, Bears (vs Cleveland)
10. Vernon Davis, 49ers (at Indianapolis)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 8.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 8:

1. San Diego Chargers (vs Oakland)
2. Arizona Cardinals (vs Carolina)
3. Indianapolis Colts (vs San Francisco)
4. Chicago Bears (vs Cleveland)
5. Dallas Cowboys (vs Seattle)
6. Philadelphia Eagles (vs NY Giants)
7. Minnesota Vikings (at Green Bay)
8. New Orleans Saints (vs Atlanta)
9. New York Giants (at Philadelphia)
10. Baltimore Ravens (vs Denver)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 8.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 8

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 8:

1. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (vs Oakland)
2. Mason Crosby, Packers (vs Minnesota)
3. John Carney, Saints (vs Atlanta)
4. Robbie Gould, Bears (vs Cleveland)
5. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (at Green Bay)
6. Josh Scobee, Jaguars (at Tennessee)
7. Nick Folk, Cowboys (vs Seattle)
8. David Akers, Eagles (vs NY Giants)
9. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (at Philadelphia)
10. Rob Bironas, Titans (vs Jacksonville)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 8.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 7:

1. Peyton Manning, Colts (at St. Louis)
2. Drew Brees, Saints (at Miami)
3. Tom Brady, Patriots (at Tampa Bay)
4. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (at Cleveland)
5. Philip Rivers, Chargers (at Kansas City)
6. Matt Schaub, Texans (vs San Francisco)
7. Jay Cutler, Bears (at Cincinnati)
8. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (vs Minnesota)
9. Eli Manning, Giants (vs Arizona)
10. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (at NY Giants)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 7.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 7:

1. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (vs Buffalo)
2. Thomas Jones, Jets (at Oakland)
3. Frank Gore, 49ers (at Houston)
4. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at Pittsburgh)
5. Michael Turner, Falcons (at Dallas)
6. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins (vs New Orleans)
7. Cedric Benson, Bengals (vs Chicago)
8. Ryan Grant, Packers (at Cleveland)
9. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers (at Kansas City)
10. Joseph Addai, Colts (at St. Louis)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 7.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 7:

1. Randy Moss, Patriots (at Tampa Bay)
2. Andre Johnson, Texans (vs San Francisco)
3. Reggie Wayne, Colts (at St. Louis)
4. Vincent Jackson, Chargers (at Kansas City)
5. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (at NY Giants)
6. Roddy White, Falcons (at Dallas)
7. Marques Colston, Saints (at Miami)
8. Wes Welker, Patriots (at Tampa Bay)
9. Hines Ward, Steelers (vs Minnesota)
10. Steve Smith, Giants (vs Arizona)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 7.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 7:

1. Dallas Clark, Colts (at St. Louis)
2. Antonio Gates, Chargers (at Kansas City)
3. Jason Witten, Cowboys (vs Atlanta)
4. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (at Dallas)
5. Heath Miller, Steelers (vs Minnesota)
6. Chris Cooley, Redskins (vs Philadelphia)
7. Owen Daniels, Texans (vs San Francisco)
8. Brent Celek, Eagles (at Washington)
9. Greg Olsen, Bears (at Cincinnati)
10. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (at Miami)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 7.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 7:

1. Green Bay Packers (at Cleveland)
2. Indianapolis Colts (at St. Louis)
3. New England Patriots (at Tampa Bay)
4. New York Jets (at Oakland)
5. Philadelphia Eagles (at Washington)
6. New York Giants (vs Arizona)
7. New Orleans Saints (at Miami)
8. Carolina Panthers (vs Buffalo)
9. Pittsburgh Steelers (vs Minnesota)
10. Minnesota Vikings (at Pittsburgh)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 7.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 7

Every week, we provide consensus fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 7:

1. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (at Tampa Bay)
2. Mason Crosby, Packers (at Cleveland)
3. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (at Kansas City)
4. David Akers, Eagles (at Washington)
5. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (vs Arizona)
6. Matt Stover, Colts (at St. Louis)
7. John Carney, Saints (at Miami)
8. Jason Elam, Falcons (at Dallas)
9. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (at Pittsburgh)
10. Kris Brown, Texans (vs San Francisco)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 7.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 6:

1. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (vs Detroit)
2. Tom Brady, Patriots (vs Tennessee)
3. Drew Brees, Saints (vs NY Giants)
4. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (at Seattle)
5. Donovan McNabb, Eagles (at Oakland)
6. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks (vs Arizona)
7. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (vs Cleveland)
8. Matt Schaub, Texans (at Cincinnati)
9. Philip Rivers, Chargers (vs Denver)
10. Jay Cutler, Bears (at Atlanta)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 6.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 6:

1. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (vs St. Louis)
2. Cedric Benson, Bengals (vs Houston)
3. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (vs Baltimore)
4. Michael Turner, Falcons (vs Chicago)
5. Ryan Grant, Packers (vs Detroit)
6. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (at Tampa Bay)
7. Matt Forte, Bears (at Atlanta)
8. Steven Jackson, Rams (at Jacksonville)
9. Knowshon Moreno, Broncos (at San Diego)
10. Brian Westbrook, Eagles (at Oakland)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 6.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 6:

1. Randy Moss, Patriots (vs Tennessee)
2. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (at Seattle)
3. Greg Jennings, Packers (vs Detroit)
4. Steve Smith, Panthers (at Tampa Bay)
5. Brandon Marshall, Broncos (at San Diego)
6. Chad Ochocinco, Bengals (vs Houston)
7. Roddy White, Falcons (vs Chicago)
8. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Cincinnati)
9. Wes Welker, Patriots (vs Tennessee)
10. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Seahawks (vs Arizona)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 6.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 6:

1. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (vs Chicago)
2. Antonio Gates, Chargers (vs Denver)
3. Brent Celek, Eagles (at Oakland)
4. Kellen Winslow, Buccaneers (vs Carolina)
5. Chris Cooley, Redskins (vs Kansas City)
6. Owen Daniels, Texans (at Cincinnati)
7. Jermichael Finley, Packers (vs Detroit)
8. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (vs Giants)
9. Greg Olsen, Bears (at Atlanta)
10. John Carlson, Seahawks (vs Arizona)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 6.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 6:

1. Philadelphia Eagles (at Oakland)
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (vs Cleveland)
3. New York Jets (vs Buffalo)
4. Green Bay Packers (vs Detroit)
5. New England Patriots (vs Tennessee)
6. Minnesota Vikings (vs Baltimore)
7. Washington Redskins (vs Kansas City)
8. Baltimore Ravens (at Minnesota)
9. New York Giants (at New Orleans)
10. Denver Broncos (at San Diego)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 6.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 6

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 6:

1. David Akers, Eagles (at Oakland)
2. Mason Crosby, Packers (vs Detroit)
3. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (vs Tennessee)
4. Josh Scobee, Jaguars (vs St. Louis)
5. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (vs Baltimore)
6. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (at New Orleans)
7. Neil Rackers, Cardinals (at Seattle)
8. Jason Elam, Falcons (vs Chicago)
9. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (vs Denver)
10. Matt Prater, Broncos (at San Diego)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 6.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 5:

1. Peyton Manning, Colts (at Tennessee)
2. Matt Schaub, Texans (at Arizona)
3. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (at Detroit)
4. Donovan McNabb, Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
5. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (vs Houston)
6. Tom Brady, Patriots (at Denver)
7. Joe Flacco, Ravens (vs Cincinnati)
8. Tony Romo, Cowboys (at Kansas City)
9. Brett Favre, Vikings (at St. Louis)
10. David Garrard, Jaguars (at Seattle)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 5.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 5:

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at St. Louis)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Seattle)
3. Brandon Jacobs, Giants (at Oakland)
4. Chris Johnson, Titans (vs Indianapolis)
5. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (vs Washington)
6. Brian Westbrook, Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
7. Marion Barber, Cowboys (at Kansas City)
8. Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers (at Detroit)
9. Steve Slaton, Texans (vs Oakland)
10. Michael Turner, Falcons (at San Francisco)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 5.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 5:

1. Reggie Wayne, Colts (at Tennessee)
2. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Arizona)
3. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (vs Houston)
4. Randy Moss, Patriots (at Denver)
5. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals (vs Houston)
6. Calvin Johnson, Lions (vs Pittsburgh)
7. DeSean Jackson, Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
8. Mike Sims-Walker, Jaguars (at Seattle)
9. Santonio Holmes, Steelers (at Detroit)
10. Steve Smith, Panthers (vs Washington)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 5.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 5:

1. Dallas Clark, Colts (at Tennessee)
2. Jason Witten, Cowboys (at Kansas City)
3. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (at San Francisco)
4. Brent Celek, Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
5. Chris Cooley, Redskins (at Carolina)
6. Owen Daniels, Texans (at Arizona)
7. John Carlson, Seahawks (vs Jacksonville)
8. Dustin Keller, Jets (at Miami)
9. Vernon Davis, 49ers (vs Atlanta)
10. Heath Miller, Steelers (at Detroit)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 5.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 5:

1. New York Giants (vs Oakland)
2. Minnesota Vikings (at St. Louis)
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (at Detroit)
4. Philadelphia Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
5. Baltimore Ravens (vs Cincinnati)
6. New York Jets (at Miami)
7. Dallas Cowboys (at Kansas City)
8. Indianapolis Colts (at Tennessee)
9. San Francisco 49ers (vs Atlanta)
10. Miami Dolphins (vs NY Jets)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 5.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 5

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 5:

1. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (at St. Louis)
2. Neil Rackers, Cardinals (vs Houston)
3. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (at Denver)
4. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (vs Oakland)
5. Kris Brown, Texans (at Arizona)
6. David Akers, Eagles (vs Tampa Bay)
7. Nick Folk, Cowboys (at Kansas City)
8. Joe Nedney, 49ers (vs Atlanta)
9. Steven Hauschka, Ravens (vs Cincinnati)
10. Josh Scobee, Jaguars (at Seattle)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 5.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 4:

1. Peyton Manning, Colts (vs Seattle)
2. Drew Brees, Saints (vs NY Jets)
3. Jay Cutler, Bears (vs Detroit)
4. Tom Brady, Patriots (vs Baltimore)
5. Matt Schaub, Texans (vs Oakland)
6. Philip Rivers, Chargers (at Pittsburgh)
7. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (at Minnesota)
8. Eli Manning, Giants (at Kansas City)
9. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (vs San Diego)
10. Carson Palmer, Bengals (at Cleveland)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 4.

More rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 4:

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (vs Green Bay)
2. Chris Johnson, Titans (at Jacksonville)
3. Brandon Jacobs, Giants (at Kansas City)
4. Cedric Benson, Bengals (at Cleveland)
5. Matt Forte, Bears (vs Detroit)
6. Steve Slaton, Texans (vs Oakland)
7. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (vs Tennessee)
8. Ronnie Brown, Dolphins (vs Buffalo)
9. Willis McGahee, Ravens (at New England)
10. Steven Jackson, Rams (at San Francisco)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 4.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 4:

1. Reggie Wayne, Colts (vs Seattle)
2. Randy Moss, Patriots (vs Baltimore)
3. Calvin Johnson, Lions (at Chicago)
4. Vincent Jackson, Chargers (at Pittsburgh)
5. Andre Johnson, Texans (vs Oakland)
6. Chad Ochocinco, Bengals (at Cleveland)
7. Greg Jennings, Packers (at Minnesota)
8. Steve Smith, Giants (at Kansas City)
9. Santonio Holmes, Steelers (vs San Diego)
10. Jerricho Cotchery, Jets (at New Orleans)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 4.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 4:

1. Dallas Clark, Colts (vs Seattle)
2. Jason Witten, Cowboys (at Denver)
3. Chris Cooley, Redskins (vs Tampa Bay)
4. Owen Daniels, Texans (vs Oakland)
5. Antonio Gates, Chargers (at Pittsburgh)
6. Greg Olsen, Bears (vs Detroit)
7. Vernon Davis, 49ers (vs St. Louis)
8. Dustin Keller, Jets (at New Orleans)
9. Kellen Winslow, Buccaneers (at Washington)
10. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (vs NY Jets)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 4.

More rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 4:

1. New York Giants (at Kansas City)
2. Cincinnati Bengals (at Cleveland)
3. San Francisco 49ers (vs St. Louis)
4. Chicago Bears (vs Detroit)
5. Washington Redskins (vs Tampa Bay)
6. Minnesota Vikings (vs Green Bay)
7. Indianapolis Colts (vs Seattle)
8. Pittsburgh Steelers (vs San Diego)
9. Baltimore Ravens (at New England)
10. Tennessee Titans (at Jacksonville)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 4.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 4

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 4:

1. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (vs Baltimore)
2. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (vs Green Bay)
3. John Carney, Saints (vs NY Jets)
4. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (at Kansas City)
5. Robbie Gould, Bears (vs Detroit)
6. Mason Crosby, Packers (at Minnesota)
7. Shayne Graham, Bengals (at Cleveland)
8. Kris Brown, Texans (vs Oakland)
9. Rian Lindell, Bills (at Miami)
10. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (at Pittsburgh)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 4.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 3

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 3:

1. Drew Brees, Saints (at Buffalo)
2. Peyton Manning, Colts (at Arizona)
3. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (at St. Louis)
4. Philip Rivers, Chargers (vs Miami)
5. Tom Brady, Patriots (vs Atlanta)
6. Matt Schaub, Texans (vs Jacksonville)
7. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (vs Indianapolis)
8. Tony Romo, Cowboys (vs Carolina)
9. Matt Ryan, Falcons (at New England)
10. Eli Manning, Giants (at Tampa Bay)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 3.

Also, see our other rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 3

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 3:

1. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Houston)
2. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (vs San Francisco)
3. Matt Forte, Bears (at Seattle)
4. Michael Turner, Falcons (at New England)
5. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (at Dallas)
6. Ryan Grant, Packers (at St. Louis)
7. Brandon Jacobs, Giants (at Tampa Bay)
8. Steven Jackson, Rams (vs Green Bay)
9. Fred Jackson, Bills (vs New Orleans)
10. Clinton Portis, Redskins (at Detroit)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 3.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 3

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 3:

1. Andre Johnson, Texans (vs Jacksonville)
2. Reggie Wayne, Colts (at Arizona)
3. Marques Colston, Saints (at Buffalo)
4. Randy Moss, Patriots (vs Atlanta)
5. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (vs Indianapolis)
6. Steve Smith, Panthers (at Dallas)
7. Greg Jennings, Packers (at St. Louis)
8. Calvin Johnson, Lions (vs Washington)
9. Roddy White, Falcons (at New England)
10. Santonio Holmes, Steelers (at Cincinnati)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 3.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 3

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 3:

1. Antonio Gates, Chargers (vs Miami)
2. Dallas Clark, Colts (at Arizona)
3. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (at New England)
4. Jason Witten, Cowboys (vs Carolina)
5. Chris Cooley, Redskins (at Detroit)
6. Kellen Winslow, Buccaneers (vs NY Giants)
7. Owen Daniels, Texans (vs Jacksonville)
8. Jeremy Shockey, Saints (at Buffalo)
9. Dustin Keller, Jets (vs Tennessee)
10. Brent Celek, Eagles (vs Kansas City>

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 3.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 3

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 3:

1. Ravens (vs Cleveland)
2. Eagles (vs Kansas City)
3. Steelers (at Cincinnati)
4. Packers (at St. Louis)
5. Giants (at Tampa Bay)
6. Jets (vs Tennessee)
7. Vikings (vs San Francisco)
8. Redskins (vs St. Louis)
9. Bears (at Seattle)
10. Broncos (at Oakland)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 3.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 3

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 3:

1. Lawrence Tynes, Giants (at Tampa Bay)
2. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (vs Miami)
3. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (vs Atlanta)
4. David Akers, Eagles (vs Kansas City)
5. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (vs San Francisco)
6. Mason Crosby, Packers (at St. Louis)
7. Neil Rackers, Cardinals (vs Indianapolis)
8. John Carney, Saints (at Buffalo)
9. Nick Folk, Cowboys (vs Carolina)
10. Kris Brown, Texans (vs Jacksonville)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 3.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football QB Rankings - Week 2

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 2:

1. Drew Brees, Saints (at Philadelphia)
2. Peyton Manning, Colts (at Miami)
3. Tom Brady, Patriots (at NY Jets)
4. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (vs Cincinnati)
5. Tony Romo, Cowboys (vs NY Giants)
6. Matt Ryan, Falcons (vs Carolina)
7. Philip Rivers, Chargers (vs Baltimore)
8. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (at Chicago)
9. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (at Jacksonville)
10. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks (at San Francisco)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 2.

Also, see our other rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football RB Rankings - Week 2

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 2:

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at Detroit)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (vs Arizona)
3. Michael Turner, Falcons (vs Carolina)
4. Clinton Portis, Redskins (vs St. Louis)
5. Brian Westbrook, Eagles (vs New Orleans)
6. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (at Atlanta)
7. Frank Gore, 49ers (vs Seattle)
8. Chris Johnson, Titans (vs Houston)
9. Ryan Grant, Packers (vs Cincinnati)
10. Thomas Jones, Jets (vs New England)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 2.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football WR Rankings - Week 2

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 2:

1. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (at Jacksonville)
2. Reggie Wayne, Colts (at Miami)
3. Randy Moss, Patriots (at NY Jets)
4. Greg Jennings, Packers (vs Cincinnati)
5. Calvin Johnson, Lions (vs Minnesota)
6. Andre Johnson, Texans (at Tennessee)
7. Marques Colston, Saints (at Philadelphia)
8. Roddy White, Falcons (vs Carolina)
9. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Seahawks (at San Francisco)
10. Wes Welker, Patriots (at NY Jets)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 2.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football TE Rankings - Week 2

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 2:

1. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (vs Carolina)
2. Dallas Clark, Colts (at Miami)
3. Jason Witten, Cowboys (vs NY GIants)
4. Chris Cooley, Redskins (vs St. Louis)
5. Antonio Gates, Chargers (vs Baltimore)
6. John Carlson, Seahawks (at San Francisco)
7. Todd Heap, Ravens (at San Diego)
8. Zach Miller, Raiders (at Kansas City)
9. Dustin Keller, Jets (vs New England)
10. Visanthe Shiancoe, Vikings (at Detroit)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 2.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football Team Defense Rankings - Week 2

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 2:

1. Vikings (at Detroit)
2. Packers (vs Cincinnati)
3. Steelers (at Chicago)
4. Redskins (vs St. Louis)
5. Titans (vs Houston)
6. Ravens (at San Diego)
7. Falcons (vs Carolina)
8. Giants (at Dallas)
9. Patriots (at NY Jets)
10. Seahawks (at San Francisco)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 2.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football Kickers - Week 2

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 2:

1. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (at NY Jets)
2. Mason Crosby, Packers (vs Cincinnati)
3. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (at Detroit)
4. David Akers, Eagles (vs New Orleans)
5. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (vs Baltimore)
6. Rob Bironas, Titans (vs Houston)
7. Neil Rackers, Cardinals (at Jacksonville)
8. Jason Elam, Falcons (vs Carolina)
9. Nick Folk, Cowboys (vs NY Giants)
10. John Carney, Saints (at Philadelphia)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 2.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

L.T., Hardwick out against Ravens

When the San Diego Chargers host the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, they will be without running back LaDainian Tomlinson and center Nick Hardwick, per Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Michael Bennett and Darren Sproles will split carries in L.T.'s place. Scott Mruczkowski will start in place of Hardwick.

In addition to both Tomlinson and Hardwick being out Sunday, the Chargers are likely to be without right guard Louis Vasquez, who is listed as questionable on the injury report. If Vasquez doesn't play, Brandyn Dombrowski will start.

"If [Tomlinson doesn't play], Michael Bennett can play," [Ravens coach John] Harbaugh said on Friday, according to Ken Murray of the Baltimore Sun. "Of course, [Darren] Sproles, everybody has been taking about him all week, but Michael Bennett can play. We've seen him before in the past, too. They've got a whole bevy of backs."

With the injuries to the Chargers' offensive line and the stinginess of the Ravens' run defense, neither Bennett nor Sproles is a good fantasy play.

The Ravens were third in the NFL against the run (81.4 yards per game) in 2008. In their first game this year, they held the Chiefs to only 29 rushing yards.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 1

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 1:

1. Stephen Gostkowski, Patriots (vs Buffalo)
2. Mason Crosby, Packers (vs Chicago)
3. Neil Rackers, Cardinals (vs San Francisco)
4. John Carney, Saints (vs Detroit)
5. Nate Kaeding, Chargers (at Oakland)
6. Ryan Longwell, Vikings (at Cleveland)
7. Kris Brown, Texans (vs NY Jets)
8. David Akers, Eagles (at Carolina)
9. Jason Elam, Falcons (vs Miami)
10. Nick Folk, Cowboys (at Tampa Bay)

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 1.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 1

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 1:

1. Ravens (vs Kansas City)
2. Vikings (at Cleveland)
3. Patriots (vs Buffalo)
4. Chargers (at Oakland)
5. Giants (vs Washington)
6. Steelers (vs Tennessee)
7. Cowboys (at Tampa Bay)
8. Seahawks (vs St. Louis)
9. Eagles (at Carolina)
10. Titans (at Pittsburgh)

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 1.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy WR Rankings - Week 1

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 fantasy wide receivers in week 1:

1. Randy Moss, Patriots (vs Buffalo)
2. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals (vs San Francisco)
3. Calvin Johnson, Lions (at New Orleans)
4. Andre Johnson, Texans (vs NY Jets)
5. Marques Colston, Saints (vs Detroit)
6. Reggie Wayne, Colts (vs Jacksonville)
7. Greg Jennings, Packers (vs Chicago)
8. T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Seahawks (vs St. Louis)
9. Roddy White, Falcons (vs Miami)
10. Anquan Boldin, Cardinals (vs San Francisco)

See full list of top 50 wide receivers for week 1.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy RB Rankings - Week 1

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 1:

1. Adrian Peterson, Vikings (at Cleveland)
2. LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers (at Oakland)
3. Matt Forte, Bears (at Green Bay)
4. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Indianapolis)
5. Steven Jackson, Rams (at Seattle)
6. Frank Gore, 49ers (at Arizona)
7. DeAngelo Williams, Panthers (vs Philadelphia)
8. Brian Westbrook, Eagles (at Carolina)
9. Michael Turner, Falcons (vs Miami)
10. Brandon Jacobs, Giants (vs Washington)

See full list of top 40 running backs for week 1.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy QB Rankings - Week 1

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 1:

1. Tom Brady, Patriots (vs Buffalo)
2. Drew Brees, Saints (vs Detroit)
3. Peyton Manning, Colts (vs Jacksonville)
4. Kurt Warner, Cardinals (vs San Francisco)
5. Aaron Rodgers, Packers (vs Bears)
6. Philip Rivers, Chargers (at Raiders)
7. Donovan McNabb, Eagles (at Carolina)
8. Matt Schaub, Texans (vs NY Jets)
9. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks (vs St. Louis)
10. Tony Romo, Cowboys (at Tampa Bay)

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 1.

Also, see our other rankings: top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 TEs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Fantasy TE Rankings - Week 1

Every week, we provide fantasy football rankings per position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DEF) based on that week's matchup.

How do we arrive at our rankings?

We average out rankings from various sources in an effort to reduce the variability between mainstream sites. We include ESPN, Yahoo! and CBS Sports in our rankings.

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 1:

1. Jason Witten, Cowboys (at Tampa Bay)
2. Antonio Gates, Chargers (at Oakland)
3. Dallas Clark, Colts (vs Jacksonville)
4. Greg Olsen, Bears (at Green Bay)
5. Tony Gonzalez, Falcons (vs Miami)
6. John Carlson, Seahawks (vs St. Louis)
7. Owen Daniels, Texans (vs NY Jets)
8. Chris Cooley, Redskins (at NY Giants)
9. Visanthe Shiancoe, Vikings (at Cleveland)
10. Zach Miller, Raiders (vs San Diego)

See full list of top 20 tight ends for week 1.

Also, see our other rankings: top 25 QBs | top 40 RBs | top 50 WRs | top 20 kickers | top 20 team defenses.

FYI: Here's the link to our free fantasy football survivor contest.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 AFC North Prediction

Before Thursday's season opener, we will project the final standings and team records for all eight divisions as well as our post-season picks. Let's continue with the AFC North.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Prediction: 11-5 (Steelers Schedule | Steelers Forum)

The defending Super Bowl champions had the league's top-rated scoring defense (13.9 points per game) and total defense (237.2 yards per game) in 2008. And the defense will be one of the best again in 2009. On offense, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is one of the toughest and most clutch QBs in the NFL. Yet the Steelers' poor offensive line play and Big Ben's propensity to try to keep the play alive made him the second-most sacked quarterback in the league last year for the second season in a row. He was the fourth-most sacked QB in 2006. While I consider the Ravens to be the Steelers' equals, the Steelers have a more favorable schedule in 2009 in an ironic twist of the NFL's scheduling policy to create parity. All AFC North teams play six games against division rivals and eight games against AFC West and NFC North teams this year. The other two games are based on division finish last year. The division winners the Steelers face are Miami and Tennessee. The Ravens, on the other hand, face the Patriots and Colts, who both finished second last year. I'd rather face the Dolphins and Titans over the Patriots and Colts.

Strength of Schedule: 2009 opponents had a .434 winning percentage in 2008 (29th)

2008 Playoff Teams on Schedule (5): vs Tennessee, vs San Diego, vs Minnesota, at Baltimore, vs Baltimore, at Miami

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 30 (10.0 per season)

Continue reading "2009 AFC North Prediction" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Links to all 32 NFL team final roster cuts

At 6 p.m. ET tonight, NFL teams were required to make their final cuts to reduce their roster from 75 players to 53 players.

Here are links to lists of cuts (or to the final 53-man roster) for all 32 NFL teams:

AFC East: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, New York Jets
AFC North: Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC South: Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans
AFC West: Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders, San Diego Chargers

NFC East: Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins
NFC North: Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings
NFC South: Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFC West: Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, St. Louis Rams

I will add links to the Colts' and Jaguars' cuts and/or 53-man rosters once I find links to them. [Links updated above]

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Updated 9/4: Consensus Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet

We have updated our Consensus Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet, which averages five separate cheat sheets to arrive at a consensus ranking.

The primary benefit of using our cheat sheet over another site's individual cheat sheet is that you're less likely to be affected by the bias of one person or one site if those differences are smoothed out with a consensus ranking of various sources.

Here are top twenty players in order of average rank (Average Rank, Highest Rank, Lowest Rank in parenthesis):

1. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings (Average: 1.2, High: 1, Low: 2)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jaguars (Average: 2.6, High: 1, Low: 4)
3. Michael Turner, RB, Falcons (Average: 3.0, High: 2, Low: 4)
4. Matt Forte, RB, Bears (Average: 3.2, High: 2, Low: 4)
5. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers (Average: 6.2, High: 5, Low: 10)
6. Steven Jackson, RB, Rams (Average: 6.6, High: 5, Low: 9)
7. Chris Johnson, RB, Titans (Average: 8.0, High: 6, Low: 11)
8. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals (Average: 9.2, High: 6, Low: 12)
9. LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers (Average: 9.6, High: 6, Low: 16)
10. Frank Gore, RB, 49ers (Average: 10.0, High: 6, Low: 18)
11. Andre Johnson, WR, Texans (Average: 11.4, High: 9, Low: 13)
12. Steve Slaton, RB, Texans (Average: 11.4, High: 7, Low: 15)
13. Drew Brees, QB, Saints (Average: 14.6, High: 11, Low: 21)
14. Randy Moss, WR, Patriots (Average: 15.4, High: 13, Low: 17)
15. Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions (Average: 15.8, High: 14, Low: 19)
16. Brian Westbrook, RB, Eagles (Average: 16.2, High: 9, Low: 21)
17. Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants (Average: 16.6, High: 11, Low: 22)
18. Marion Barber, RB, Cowboys (Average: 17.2, High: 10, Low: 22)
19. Clinton Portis, RB, Redskins (Average: 17.8, High: 13, Low: 24)
20. Tom Brady, QB, Patriots (Average: 18.4, High: 15, Low: 23)

Full Top 150 Consensus Rankings here.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

5 Fantasy Running Backs to target in your draft

As you already know, fantasy football leagues are not necessarily won by the genius who decides to select Adrian Peterson with the number one pick. Whether you have the third pick, the eighth pick or the tenth pick, everyone is getting top talent in the first round.

And if we take a quick look back to 2008, players such as Matt Forte, Deangelo Williams and Chris Johnson were drafted in the 10th round or later yet they put up first-round numbers.

While that may be the extreme, the key to winning your league is selecting players who are good values in relation to where they are drafted and to do so consistently throughout your draft.

So, here are some running backs to target from round 3 through the later rounds:

Kevin Smith, Lions – Last year was the year of the rookie RB. Three of them rushed for 1,000+ yards. One of the guys who flew under the radar and just fell shy of 1,000 yards was Kevin Smith of Detroit.

While Smith has a case of JonKitna-itis, predicting a Detroit Lions’ playoff berth in ’09, he just needs to do what he has done since November last year.

When given the chance in the second half, Smith produced and produced big. He rushed for 671 yards in the final 8 games. That is a 1,342-yard pace in an offense that had Dan “Safety Dance” Orlovsky running it.

Only 4 RBs had more than 1,342 yards in 2008.

With MegaTron -- that’s Calvin Johnson for those of you not well-versed in freakishly, athletic receiver nicknames -- entering his third season, a quarterback who's last name doesn't rhyme with jerkoff-ski and the addition of Brandon Pettigrew, the most-talented and best-blocking TE in the draft, I wouldn’t be surprised if Smith continued his second-half pace into 2009, in which case Smith becomes the bargain of the third round of your draft.

Ryan Grant, Packers – Although he wasn’t 100% to start the season and didn’t crack 20 carries in the first five weeks of the year, Ryan Grant was one of only five backs to carry the ball 300+ times in 2008.

Despite some labeling him a “bust,” Grant finished strong and still rushed for 1203 yards. All four of the times he eclipsed the century mark came in the final ten games of the season.

With Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings and Donald Driver in the passing game, opposing defenses need to be honest when trying to stop Grant and the Packers running attack.

Provided Grant stays healthy for the entire season, he should top his 2008 production of 1200+ yards.

Ray Rice, Ravens – If you read my blog post in early June -- ‘Four (Ravens’) Breakout Players for 2009’ -- over at FootBaltimore.com, putting Ray Rice on this list doesn’t surprise you.

In 2009, I expect the Ravens’ ground game to be the same as -- but different than -- it was in 2008. So, what does that mean?

Last year, the Ravens led the NFL in rushing attempts at 37 per game. I don’t expect that to change much. What will be different in 2009 is how the carries are allocated. Rice, who has been running (no pun intended) with the first team, should receive the most carries this year. Le’Ron McClain, last year’s leader with 232 carries, has moved to FB full-time to take over for the departed Lorenzo Neal.

While Willis McGahee had a strong camp, Rice has added both muscle and confidence in the off-season. And Coach John Harbaugh has been singing his praises saying that he has no doubt that Rice can be an “every-down back.”

Donald Brown, Colts – Brown, who was the nation’s leading rusher in college football and joins one of the most prolific offenses in the league. Brown carried the rock 28 times per game on average at UConn and rushed for 200+ yards three times and 150+ yards eight times.

With Joseph Addai already in Indy, Brown will be part of a platoon to start the season.

Worst-case scenario, Brown should get 10-12 carries per game and finish with around 700-800 yards.

Best-case scenario, (except from Addai’s perspective), it’s déjà vu all over again for Addai leading to huge upside for Brown.

Cedric Benson, Bengals – While I wouldn’t go for a boat ride with Bengals running back Cedric Benson, I’d certainly draft him after 30 or so running backs are off the board, which is what his Yahoo! ADP and ESPN rank would project.

Benson (and the Bengals for that matter) finished 2008 strong despite being the 32nd-ranked offense in the league last year. In the final three weeks of the season, Benson showed why the Bears drafted him fourth overall in 2005.

In those three games (all wins), Benson carried the ball 84 times for 355 yards and caught 5 passes for 107 yards. With Carson Palmer healthy (arm/shoulder, at least), Chad Ochocinco refocused and top rookie Andre Smith re-joining the offensive line (after his broken foot heals), there is no reason to believe that the Bengals will finish ranked last in offense again this year. And Benson should only benefit from those healthier, refocused and new components to the offense.

Some other RBs I like late in the draft: Felix Jones (Cowboys), Ahmad Bradshaw (Giants) and James Davis (Browns).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Updated 8/27: Consensus Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet

We have updated our Consensus Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet, which averages five separate cheat sheets to arrive at a consensus ranking.

The primary benefit of using our cheat sheet over another site's individual cheat sheet is that you're less likely to be affected by the bias of one person or one site if those differences are smoothed out with a consensus ranking of various sources.

Here are top twenty players in order of average rank (Average Rank, Highest Rank, Lowest Rank in parenthesis):

1. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings (Average: 1.2, High: 1, Low: 2)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jaguars (Average: 2.6, High: 1, Low: 4)
3. Michael Turner, RB, Falcons (Average: 3.0, High: 2, Low: 4)
4. Matt Forte, RB, Bears (Average: 3.4, High: 2, Low: 5)
5. Steven Jackson, RB, Rams (Average: 6.4, High: 5, Low: 9)
6. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers (Average: 6.8, High: 5, Low: 11)
7. Chris Johnson, RB, Titans (Average: 8.6, High: 6, Low: 13)
8. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals (Average: 9.0, High: 6, Low: 11)
9. LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers (Average: 9.4, High: 4, Low: 16)
10. Frank Gore, RB, 49ers (Average: 10.0, High: 6, Low: 18)
11. Steve Slaton, RB, Texans (Average: 11.4, High: 7, Low: 15)
12. Andre Johnson, WR, Texans (Average: 11.8, High: 10, Low: 14)
13. Drew Brees, QB, Saints (Average: 14.0, High: 11, Low: 17)
14. Brian Westbrook, RB, Eagles (Average: 14.8, High: 7, Low: 21)
15. Randy Moss, WR, Patriots (Average: 15.6, High: 13, Low: 17)
16. Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants (Average: 16.0, High: 12, Low: 22)
17. Marion Barber, RB, Cowboys (Average: 16.4, High: 10, Low: 20)
18. Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions (Average: 17.0, High: 14, Low: 21)
19. Clinton Portis, RB, Redskins (Average: 17.8, High: 14, Low: 24)
20. Tom Brady, QB, Patriots (Average: 18.6, High: 15, Low: 24)

Full Top 150 Consensus Rankings here.

Also, you can follow us on Twitter @EDSFootball or on Facebook's Networked Blogs.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ryan to copy Ravens' three-back system

If immitation is the sincerest form of flattery, the Ravens and offensive coordinator Cam Cameron should be flattered.

According to M.A. Mehta of the Newark Star-Ledger, Jets coach Rex Ryan intends to duplicate what the Ravens did last year for his three backs - Thomas Jones, who led the AFC in rushing in 2008, Leon Washington and rookie Shonn Greene, the Jets' third-round draft pick.

The Ravens led the NFL in rushing attempts averaging 37 per game with their three-headed rushing attack of Le'Ron McClain, Willis McGahee and Ray Rice. They finished fourth in the NFL in rushing yards (148.5 yards per game).

"Hopefully, we'll have a lot of carries for all of them," Ryan said. "Keep them fresh, rolling them in there. I'm excited about it. You can't have too much depth at running back in this league."

From a football perspective, that is a smart move. Jones is 30 years old, Washington provides versatility and Greene is a rookie.

From a fantasy football perspective, however, draft a Jets running back at your own peril (with the exception of keeper leagues).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

New consensus top 150 fantasy football cheat sheet (updated 8/16)

We have updated our Consensus Top 150 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet, which averages five separate cheat sheets to arrive at a consensus ranking.

The primary benefit of using our cheat sheet over another site's individual cheat sheet is that you're less likely to be affected by the bias of one person or one site if those differences are smoothed out with a consensus ranking of various sources.

Here are top twenty players in order of average rank (Average Rank, Highest Rank, Lowest Rank in parenthesis):

1. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings (Average: 1.2, High: 1, Low: 2)
2. Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jaguars (Average: 2.6, High: 1, Low: 4)
3. Michael Turner, RB, Falcons (Average: 3.0, High: 2, Low: 4)
4. Matt Forte, RB, Bears (Average: 3.4, High: 2, Low: 5)
5. Steven Jackson, RB, Rams (Average: 6.4, High: 5, Low: 9)
6. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers (Average: 7.2, High: 5, Low: 11)
7. Chris Johnson, RB, Titans (Average: 8.4, High: 6, Low: 13)
8. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals (Average: 8.8, High: 6, Low: 11)
9. LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers (Average: 9.6, High: 4, Low: 17)
10. Frank Gore, RB, 49ers (Average: 10.2, High: 6, Low: 18)
11. Steve Slaton, RB, Texans (Average: 11.0, High: 7, Low: 15)
12. Andre Johnson, WR, Texans (Average: 12.0, High: 10, Low: 14)
13. Drew Brees, QB, Saints (Average: 14.0, High: 11, Low: 17)
14. Brian Westbrook, RB, Eagles (Average: 14.6, High: 7, Low: 21)
15. Marion Barber, RB, Cowboys (Average: 15.4, High: 10, Low: 20)
16. Randy Moss, WR, Patriots (Average: 16.0, High: 15, Low: 17)
17. Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants (Average: 16.2, High: 12, Low: 23)
18. Clinton Portis, RB, Redskins (Average: 17.0, High: 14, Low: 20)
19. Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions (Average: 17.0, High: 14, Low: 21)
20. Tom Brady, QB, Patriots (Average: 19.4, High: 16, Low: 24)

Full Top 150 Consensus Rankings here.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steve McNair was shot and killed in double homicide

Former NFL quarterback Steve McNair was shot and killed in a double homicide in downtown Nashville, per News Channel 5 in Nashville.

The incident happened at 2nd South & Lea Ave.

McNair, who was selected third overall by the Houston Oilers in 1995, spent 13 years in the NFL and was one of the toughest players in the league. He spent his first 11 seasons with the Oilers/Titans franchise and his last two with the Ravens.

He was named co-MVP with Peyton Manning in 2003.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Tarvares Gooden: "a new and improved Bart"?

Per Ken Murray of the Baltimore Sun, Ravens linebacker Tavares Gooden will likely replace Bart Scott, who departed to the Jets via free agency this off-season.

He is competing for the spot with Jameel McClain, but he's already adding undue pressure on himself with his comments.

"I was brought in here to do a job; that's what I'll do. I won't disappoint. ... I'll fit the role of a new and improved Bart."

"Tavares is sometimes going too fast," [Ray] Lewis said. "At a jogging pace, he wants to hit somebody, like right now. So I've got to calm him down."

He transitioned from outside linebacker to inside linebacker going into his senior season at Miami. But Gooden, who plays around 240 pounds, has often heard that he's not big enough to play inside.

"I don't think 'big enough, physical enough' has anything to do with it because if you watch my first preseason games, I was knocking people's helmets loose," he said. "I was being physical. ... Sometimes, it's more about someone's heart and determination."

Last year, Gooden, who was drafted in the third round by the Ravens, suffered a season-ending injury in week six.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ravens' Mason may miss training camp

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Derrick Mason may miss training camp, but he expects to ready for the beginning of the season, according to Jamison Hensley of the Baltimore Sun.

Mason, who had surgery on his shoulder in February, did not participate during the team's mandatory mini-camp this weekend.

"I guarantee I'll be ready by the first game, that's all I can say," Mason said Sunday. "Everything else, we'll play it by ear."

Back in November, Mason injured his labrum in the game against the Texans. He played throughout the remainder of the season, but he says "it turned out to be more than we anticipated."

Mason led the Ravens in receptions (80), receiving yards (1037) and receiving touchdowns (five) in 2008.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

John Beck reunited with Cam Cameron

After last weekend's NFL draft, the Miami Dolphins had four quarterbacks on their roster: Chad Pennington, signed as a free agent by Bill Parcells, as well as Chad Henne and Pat White, who were both drafted by Bill Parcells.

The odd-man out was John Beck, who was drafted in the second round in 2007 under the Cam Cameron regime. It came as no surprise when the Parcells-led Dolphins released Beck earlier in the week.

Per Jamison Hensley of the Balitmore Sun, the Ravens, for whom Cameron is currently the offensive coordinator, have agreed to a one-year contract with Beck, who will compete with Troy Smith to back up Joe Flacco.

In 2007, Beck played in five games and completed 56.1 percent of his passes for 559 yards. He threw one touchdown, three interceptions and had a 62.0 QB rating. Beck didn't play in 2008.

By signing Beck, the Ravens are expected to release QB Todd Bouman. Undrafted rookie Drew Wily of Buffalo is also currently on the roster.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

And with the 23rd-overall pick...

The Baltimore Ravens, who acquired in the 23rd overall pick from New England, have selected Michael Oher, OT from Mississippi.

Oher has an amazing story and the Ravens are getting a steal here at 23.

Atlanta is on the clock. See all 2009 NFL Draft Picks.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Daren Stone suspended for four games

Former Ravens safety Daren Stone, who signed with the team in the middle of last season, has been suspended for four games by the NFL for unknown reasons per Foxsports.com.

Stone, who was drafted by the Falcons in the sixth round in 2007, is currently a free agent (and likely to remain that way).

In addition to playing for the Falcons and Ravens, he was signed (and released a week later) by the Dallas Cowboys last October.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ravens re-sign Rolle

A month ago, Baltimore Ravens cornerback Samari Rolle asked to be released and said that he didn't "want to play in Baltimore anymore because I feel I'm not wanted."

A month later, Rolle had a change of heart as the Ravens re-signed Rolle to a four-year contract.

"What we experienced with Samari two weeks ago ... when he came in and sat down and talked with us and expressed some things to us, and we were able to express some things back to him ... it broke a lot of barriers," Newsome said.

The Ravens have also signed cornerbacks Dominique Foxworth and Chris Carr this off-season.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ray Lewis says Ravens were his first choice

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis, who has made 10 Pro Bowls in his 13 seasons with the Ravens, tested the free-agent market. But a week after free agency began, he agreed to a contract with the Ravens that will allow him to spend his entire career with only one team.

Lewis held a news conference yesterday and said that the Ravens were his first choice.

"My family is Baltimore," said Lewis. "The bottom line: Was there ever a decision for me to leave Baltimore? I don't think so. I didn't visit anyone else's facility. That would have taken away from what I do for my city. When I put that purple jersey on my back, I give everything that I have for every fan that's in the stands."

There is no doubt that Lewis leaves everything that he has on the field. Nobody could ever question his heart.

Whether or not the Ravens were his first choice, I don't know. Does he love the city of Baltimore, the fans and the franchise? I'm sure he does.

But to say the reason he "didn't visit anyone else's facility" was because it "would have taken away from what I do for my city" is a big stretch. Before the off-season began, he talked about how he wouldn't give Baltimore a "hometown discount" as Terrell Suggs suggested that the Ravens' trio of LBs should.

He "didn't visit anyone else's facility," because the interest wasn't there. Rex Ryan was waiting in Bart Scott's driveway as soon as free agency began and Jerry Jones didn't want (to pay) Lewis.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Orlando Pace to visit with Ravens

The St. Louis Rams released left tackle Orlando Pace on March 11th. On March 16th, the Baltimore Sun quoted Baltimore Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome as saying that there were no plans to bring in any tackles.

"Hey, I'm always looking to improve this football team," Newsome said. "At this point, we have no plans to bring in any tackles."

Things change fast. Orlando Pace is heading to Baltimore tonight to meet with the Ravens tomorrow.

If the Ravens sign Pace, it's likely that they would release tackle Willie Anderson. Cutting Anderson would save the team $2.9 million.

Pace, the former #1 overall draft pick in 1997, has made seven Pro Bowls in his career. However, injuries have caused him to miss 25 games in the past three seasons.

The Ravens would be interested in Pace playing right tackle. He spent his entire career as a left tackle.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

LJ Smith is heading to Baltimore

According to the Baltimore Sun, the Ravens and L.J. Smith have agreed to a one-year contract worth $1.5 million.

The current tight ends on the Ravens' roster are Smith, Todd Heap, who started last year, Quinn Sypniewski and Edgar Jones.

Smith, who was designated with the franchise tag in 2008, played only 23 games in the past two seasons. After putting up back-to-back 600-yard seasons in 2005 and 2006, Smith's production, even after accounting for games missed due to injury, has declined.

In the past two seasons, Smith has posted 236 yards receiving and 298 yards receiving. His 22.9 receiving yards per game in 2008 was the second-lowest of his career. He averaged 21.4 receiving yards per game in his rookie season (2003).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ravens, Carr agree to 2-year deal

The Baltimore Ravens are expected to release CB Samari Rolle on Monday. On the same day, the Ravens will sign CB Chris Carr to a 2-year contract worth $5 million after he takes (and assuming passes) his physical.

Carr, who was undrafted out of Boise State, could compete with Frank Walker for the nickel back role. In addition, he could assume return responsibilities. Carr was 4th in the NFL in kick returns and 12th in punt returns.

Without Chris McAlister, Samari Rolle or Corey Ivy on the roster in 2009, Fabian Washington and free-agent signee Dominique Foxworth will start at cornerback.

In four NFL seasons (first three in Oakland and last year in Tennessee), Carr has 87 career tackles and 2 career interceptions.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Samari Rolle to be released next week?

Per Mike Preston of the Baltimore Sun, CB Samari Rolle expects to be released from the Ravens on Monday.

"I anticipate it happening. I'm happy," Rolle told The Sun. "Everyone got what they wanted out of this. I wish the Ravens nothing but the best of luck."

The move will save the Ravens $4.1 million against the cap. Rolle, who didn't want a reduced role or pay, had previously stated that he wanted to be released.

He felt that Rex Ryan, the new Jets coach, was "the only man in the building that supported me." So, will he be the next Ravens defensive player to follow Bart Scott and Jim Leonhard up the NJ Turnpike to East Rutherford?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ray Lewis will retire a Raven

Yesterday the Baltimore Ravens and Ray Lewis agreed to a 3-year contract worth $22 million.

"From beginning to end as a Raven ... Wow!" Lewis said in a statement. "My heart is with the Ravens. My heart is with Baltimore and the great fans."

Lewis, the Ravens' first-round pick in 1996, is the unquestioned leader in the Ravens' locker room. Whether or not he would have been able to bring the same effect to another locker room (e.g., Cowboys, Jets) is unknown but unlikely.

Although the Ravens have lost Bart Scott, Jim Leonhard and cut Chris McAlister, they are still strong up the middle with safety Ed Reed and NT Haloti Ngata playing with Lewis.

At 34, this contract should be the last for Lewis. With the exception of two injury-shortened seasons, Lewis has had 100+ tackles in every season including 117 last year, which led the team. Lewis also has 33.5 career sacks and 28 interceptions.

Lewis has made the Pro Bowl 10 times including last year and is a 2-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and the Super Bowl XXXV MVP.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Jets sign Jim Leonhard, another ex-Raven

Rex Ryan has brought another Ravens' starter to the New York Jets. The Jets and safety Jim Leonhard agreed to a 3-year contract today despite the Broncos' strong interest late in Leonhard.

In addition to starting in the defensive backfield, Leonhard will field punts for the Jets, which will allow last year's punt returner Leon Washington to be more involved with the offense.

"I've liked Jim since his days at Wisconsin and was excited when we were able to bring him to Baltimore last season," Ryan said. "He was everything I expected him to be in 2008 when he bailed us out at safety after we had some injuries. He's a smart player that can get guys lined up in the secondary and was one of the best tacklers on that Ravens defense.

"He's always around the ball, brings everything he has on every play, and will be a great addition to our group of defensive backs."

Leonhard had 69 tackles and 1 interception, which he returned for a TD, for the Ravens in 2008. Only Ray Lewis and Bart Scott, who also signed with the Jets, had more tackles for the Ravens.

He also finished 6th in the NFL in punt return average (11.6 yards per return) last year.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Samari Rolle wants to be released

The Baltimore Ravens cut CB Chris McAlister, who was surprised by his release, and have signed Dominique Foxworth to a 4-year, $28 million contract.

They have also asked Samari Rolle to take a paycut, but he has declined. Instead, he would like to be released.

"Honestly, I don't want to play in Baltimore anymore because I feel I'm not wanted," said Rolle, who has started for the Ravens the past four seasons. "During the past two years, the Ravens have wanted to replace me, and the only man in the building that supported me was Rex [Ryan, the former defensive coordinator].

"I have nothing against the organization, nothing against ownership. I just feel it's time for me to move on. Never have I challenged this organization, but I think it's in both our best interest."

Rolle says he'll do whatever the Ravens ask of him next season, but his preference is to be released. He doesn't want to come off the bench or be a nickleback.

Last year, Rolle played only 10 regular season games, but had 3 interceptions.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Bart Scott gets extra year above original agreement

This morning, the New York Jets and Bart Scott's agent agreed to a deal that would pay him $8 million per season over 5 years. Before Scott signed on the dotted line, the Ravens upped the ante with a 5-year, $42 million offer.

Now the Jets and Scott have come to an agreement again.The official deal between the Jets and Scott is a 6-year contract worth $48 million, with the last year being an option year.

Other former Ravens defensive players could follow. The Jets visited with CB Corey Ivy today and will visit with safety Jim Leonhard tomorrow.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ravens sign Dominique Foxworth

Today the Baltimore Ravens signed CB Dominique Foxworth to a 4-year, $28 million contract. Of that $28 million, $16.5 million of it is guaranteed.

The Ravens cut CB Chris McAlister, who was "shocked" by the move, earlier this off-season. The Ravens could also lose Corey Ivey, who is a free agent that is visiting with the New York Jets.

Foxworth, drafted in the 3rd round in 2005 by the Broncos, started 10 games for the Falcons in 2008.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ravens up offer to Bart Scott

According to Mark Cannizzaro of the New York Post, who is currently live on phone with the NFL Network's "Team Cam," Bart Scott has not yet signed the 5-year, $40 million offer from the New York Jets.

The Ravens have upped their offer to $42 million and if the Jets want to get a deal done with Scott, they will likely need to increase dollars.

A contingency plan for the Jets would be Ray Lewis, but the Jets would prefer Scott since he's younger. Scott is 28 years old and Ray Lewis is 33 years old.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Bart Scott to the Jets, Lewis done in Baltimore?

Free-agent LB Bart Scott is meeting with the Jets today and is expected to sign a deal in the $8 million per year range.

The NFL Live (ESPN) guys interviewed Scott early this morning after free agency began and Scott sang the praises of his former defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, who is now the Jets head coach.

"I got a special place in my heart for those guys because they are the guys that gave me the chance and taught me how to play defense," Scott told ESPN via phone. "I was the happiest man in the world when he got the job because I felt it was long overdue.

"We always have a great time with Rex and the guys that helped kind of mature me from undrafted to what I am now. So they're just as much a part of my success as I am."

After the Ravens designated Terrell Suggs as their franchise player, it was expected that the Jets would pursue either Scott or fellow LB Ray Lewis. In either case, it makes a lot of sense to bring one of those guys into the system to help teammates and be a leader in the locker room.

Suggs suggested that he, Scott and Lewis accept a "hometown discount" to all remain in Baltimore, but Suggs could end up being the only 1 of 3 to play for the Ravens in 2009. Per Adam Schefter of the NFL Network, a source told him that Lewis won't return to the Ravens even if he has to retire.

Scott was undrafted out of Southern Illinois and has spent his entire 7-year career with the Ravens.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ravens franchise Terrell Suggs

The Baltimore Ravens prevented one of their three stud LBs from becoming a free agent by assigning the franchise tag on Terrell Suggs. The Ravens have now franchised Suggs 2 years in a row.

Suggs will earn $10.2 million (which is 20% more than he earned last season) in 2009 if he signs the offer.

"Our plan is to sign 'Sizzle' to a long-term contract," general manager Ozzie Newsome said in a statement. "We believe our history of keeping our best players for a long time speaks for itself."

Teams can negotiate long-term deals with franchised players until July 15th. After that, they have to wait until the season ends.

Bart Scott and Ray Lewis will become free agents on February 27th if they don't reach a deal with the Ravens before then.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Jets may be interested in Chris McAlister

Dave Hutchinson from the Newark Star-Ledger speculates the New York Jets may show interest in CB Chris McAlister, who is "dealing with the shock" of being released by the Baltimore Ravens.

The Jets new head coach is Rex Ryan, who had been the defensive coordinator in Baltimore from 2005-2008. Ryan joined the Ravens in 1999, which is the same year the Ravens drafted Chris McAlister in the 1st round.

While the Jets have one of the league's top corners in Darrelle Revis, they could use an upgrade to pair up with him. Rookie Dwight Lowery started opposite Revis.

McAlister, a 3-time Pro Bowler, had 3 interceptions in 6 games last season, but has struggled to stay healthy the past 2 seasons playing only 14 of 32 games.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ravens cut "shocked" McAlister

Today the Baltimore Ravens released CB Chris McAlister, who missed 18 games in the past 2 seasons due to knee injuries. He played 8 games last season and 6 games this season.

The move saves the team $8 million in salary cap space.

"I'm still dealing with the shock of the whole thing," McAlister told 105.7 FM today. "I can't imagine this happened. I never thought it would happen."

For his career, McAlister has 26 interceptions and returned 5 of those for TDs. McAlister, drafted 10th overall by the Ravens in 1999, spent his entire 10-year career with the Ravens and earned 3 trips to the Pro Bowl (2003, 2004, 2006).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Should Browns pursue Terrell Suggs?

Baltimore Ravens free agent LB Terrell Suggs has suggested that he and fellow free-agent-to-be LBs Bart Scott and Ray Lewis offer a "hometown discount" to the Ravens.

But Terry Pluto of the Cleveland Plain Dealer says "money does change minds." Would Suggs be willing to pass on the "hometown discount" for something of an out-of-town premium?

Suggs is only 26 years old and has averaged nearly 9 sacks per season (53 sacks in 6 seasons).

As Pluto points out, Browns LB Kamerion Wimbley's sack production has declined each season. He had 11 in his rookie season (2006) and 9 in the past 2 years.

As a team, the Browns had 17 sacks in 2008. They were tied with the Bengals for 30th in the NFL in that category. In 2006 and 2007, they had 28 sacks each season.

D'Qwell Jackson, another Browns LB from the 2006 rookie class, led the team and the NFL in tackles with 154 in 2008.

Signing Suggs could take the pressure off Wimbley and help him return to his rookie form and really solidify this group of Browns' LBs.

Cleveland won't be the only team interested in Suggs this off-season, so if he makes it to free agency on the 27th, we'll soon find out if he puts his money (or lack thereof) where his mouth is.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2010 Super Bowl odds

The Pittsburgh Steelers won Super Bowl XLIII last night. Enjoy it. Ok...stop. Vegas is already looking ahead to 2009-2010.

Sportsbook.com has odds for Super Bowl XLIV in Miami on February 7, 2010 on its website.

Who's the favorite?

The Patriots have 8-1 odds.

Here are the rest:

10-1: Steelers, Cowboys, Giants, Colts
12-1: Ravens, Titans, Panthers, Eagles, Chargers
25-1: Packers, Saints, Vikings
30-1: Jaguars, Jets, Cardinals, Bucs, Falcons, Broncos
40-1: Bears, Texans, Bills, Redskins, Dolphins
50-1: Seahawks
60-1: Browns, Bengals, 49ers
100-1: Chiefs, Raiders, Rams, Lions

See past Super Bowl winners.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ray Lewis not talking in public about future

Last week, Baltimore Ravens LB Terrell Suggs said the trio of Ravens LBs (Suggs, Ray Lewis and Bart Scott) should provide the Ravens with a "hometown discount." What is Lewis' view on the topic?

"What he really is talking about is a brotherhood," Lewis said. "That's the reason why we played so passionately. There's a commitment to each other. A lot of times in life, you don't like to see that go. But it's business. It happens."

If Lewis doesn't provide a "hometown discount" to owner Steve Bisciotti and the Ravens organization, he will be highly sought-after in free agency, which begins at the end of February.

The Dallas Cowboys are reportedly interested in Lewis as would be the New York Jets, who signed Rex Ryan as their head coach. Ryan was Lewis' defensive coordinator in Baltimore for the past 4 seasons.

Lewis isn't tipping his hand about his future with the Ravens or in free agency.

"What I'm thinking, nobody needs to know," said Lewis. "I've given my prayers to God. It's between me and him. It's nobody else's business. That's between me and God."

The Lewis-led Ravens defense finished the season 2nd in overall defense (261.1 ypg) and 3rd in scoring defense (15.3 ppg).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Hall of Fame inductees

The 2009 inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame were announced today. They are Bob Hayes, Randall McDaniel, Bruce Smith, Derrick Thomas, Ralph Wilson, and Rod Woodson.

This was the first ballot for Rod Woodson and Bruce Smith.

Here are some quotes from today's announcement ceremony:

"Just thinking about my father and all the sacrifices he and my mother made when I was a child growing up to be a man," Smith added, tearfully. "How he wanted me to have a life better than he had. I just wish he was here. He would be extremely proud of this day."

"It's a great honor, a great feat," said Woodson. "I'm still pinching myself a little bit, thinking it's surreal."

"Derrick Thomas was the cornerstone of the modern era of the Kansas City Chiefs and one of the most feared performers of his era," Chiefs owner Clark Hunt said. "Every head coach and offensive coordinator who faced the Chiefs during the 1990s knew when they came to Arrowhead Stadium they had to account for Derrick Thomas."

"Randall was a beast," Smith said. "Once he locked on to you, you couldn't go anywhere."

In a statement, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said, "This is a deserving honor for one of the Cowboys' most and truly gifted stars. We all know he changed the game on the field, but he also brought a unique star quality to the NFL that helped make professional football the most popular sport in the world."

The finalists that weren't inducted are: Cris Carter, Dermontti Dawson, Richard Dent, Russ Grimm, Claude Humphrey, Cortez Kennedy, Bob Kuechenberg, John Randle, Andre Reed, Shannon Sharpe and Paul Tagliabue.

The 2009 class will be enshrined in Canton, OH on August 8th. See past Hall of Fame classes.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Greg Mattison to succeed Rex Ryan

The Baltimore Ravens lost defensive coordinator Rex Ryan to the New York Jets. Ryan brought Mike Pettine, who was the Ravens OLBs coach last season, with him to New York to be the Jets defensive coordinator.

Today the Ravens announced that their next defensive coordinator will be Greg Mattison, who coached the Ravens ILBs last season. Vic Fangio will coach all LBs in 2009.

"I'm very humbled and very proud to be named the coordinator of the Ravens," Mattison said at a news conference. "I think the biggest thing I plan on doing is utilizing a great staff. Our defensive staff is out of sight, and we will work very closely together in making sure we keep moving toward that bar that's been established, the way we play defense here."

The Ravens also have to deal with a trio of their starting LBs (Ray Lewis, Bart Scott and Terrell Suggs) potentially becoming unrestricted free agents in the same off-season. However, Suggs is lobbying for the group to accept a "home discount" to stay in Baltimore.

"I believe very strongly that you have to be aggressive, you have to be an attacking defense," [head coach John Harbaugh] said. "Obviously, that's been the M.O. of the defense here for years. In looking at what we do defensively, we don't plan on changing a great deal. It's not broken, by any means."

The Ravens finished 3rd in the NFL in scoring defense (15.3 ppg) and 2nd in overall defense (261.1 ypg).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

"Hometown discount" for trio of Ravens LBs?

All of the Baltimore Ravens starting LBs are scheduled to become unrestricted free agents at the end of next month.

It would be highly unlikely that the Ravens don't re-sign or franchise any of the group (Ray Lewis, Bart Scott and Terrell Suggs), but there will be plenty of interest in any that make it to free agency.

"We really don't want to play without one another because we've been playing together for so long," Suggs told Sirius NFL radio.

"We've already seen one of our other brothers [linebacker Adalius Thomas] walk. We really don't want to see too many more of us walk away from the city of Baltimore. Hopefully we all can stay, definitely, on a home discount."

I respect and even admire Suggs' willingness to provide a "home discount." After all, one of the main reasons some are disenchanted with professional sports is the greed, whether by players, coaches or owners.

But considering how little of the money is guaranteed in the NFL (compared to other sports), Suggs or Lewis or Scott would be crazy to provide a substantial "hometown discount."

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Cowboys interested in, need Ray Lewis?

The Baltimore Ravens will have decisions to make regarding their LB corps as Ray Lewis, Bart Scott and Terrell Suggs have all just completed the final year of their existing contracts.

According to Mike Preston of Ravens Insider, the Dallas Cowboys are interested in making an offer to Ray Lewis should he make it to free agency. The offer would be in the 3-year, $27-$30 million range with $25 guaranteed.

When the Cowboys signed Zach Thomas, I thought Thomas would provide the veteran leadership this team needed. With turmoil in Dallas greater than previously thought, Ray Lewis would certainly fill the void of a player willing to confront other players to do the right thing.

The money they might be prepared to offer Lewis is perhaps more than he's worth from a football perspective as an about-to-be-34-year-old LB. But the he's worth every penny if he can come to town and instill some discipline and accountability into the Cowboys.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Samari Rolle likely out, Terrell Suggs game-time decision

When the Ravens play the Steelers in the AFC Championship Game, they will likely be without CB Samari Rolle and possibly without LB Terrell Suggs. Rolle has a groin injury and Suggs has a shoulder sprain.

Both players have missed their last three practices.

If Rolle can't go, CB Frank Walker will likely start in his place.

"We're hoping that Samari can get back, but if not, I'll be stepping in for Samari," Walker said.

Walker has 35 tackles and 1 interception in 15 games this season. Rolle has 23 tackles and 3 interceptions in 10 games.

Suggs leads the Ravens with 8 sacks. 2 of those sacks came in their two previous matchups against the Steelers this season.

"He improved throughout the week, and we'll just have to see," Harbaugh said. "We can't make predictions. We don't know. He's worked hard, he's done a good job, and we'll just have to see what happens."

Suggs has never missed a game in his 6-year career.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Spagnuolo has 2nd Jets' interview, Ryan still frontrunner

New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo had a second interview with the New York Jets today.

According to Rich Cimini of the Daily News, however, Ravens DC Rex Ryan remains the team's leading candidate.

Aside from Ryan and Spagnuolo, other candidates include the Cardinals Russ Grimm and Jets Brian Schottenheimer, the team's current offensive coordinator.

Cimini expects that Schottenheimer would stay on as Jets' OC if Rex Ryan is hired as the team's head coach.

Both Ryan and Grimm are coaching in this weekend's championship games so a decision isn't expected before this weekend.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

NFL's Final Four set

The Pittsburgh Steelers ended the San Diego Chargers run (literally). The Chargers were limited to only 15 yards rushing on 12 carries and the Steelers won 35-24.

The Steelers will host the Ravens in the AFC Championship Game in what should be a defensive battle.

The Steelers swept the season series in 2 close contests: 23-20 in week 4 and 13-9 in week 15.

In the NFC Championship Game, the Arizona Cardinals will host the Philadelphia Eagles.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ravens DC Rex Ryan to interview with Jets today

Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan is going to interview for the New York Jets coaching vacancy today. Ryan, who has no head coaching experience, has been the Ravens' DC since 2005.

Yesterday the Ravens beat the Titans and will face the winner of today's Chargers-Steelers game next weekend in the AFC Championship Game.

The Ravens finished the season ranked 3rd in scoring defense (15.3 ppg) and 2nd in total defense (237.2 ypg). Their defense also led the NFL in interceptions (26) and in takeaways (34). In 2 playoff games, the Ravens defense has created 8 turnovers (5 INTs - 3 fumble recoveries).

The Jets have also interviewed Jets OC Brian Schottenheimer and OL coach Bill Callahan, Giants DC Steve Spagnuolo, Boston College coach Jeff Jagodzinski - who was fired for interviewing for Jets job, Cardinals OL coach Russ Grimm and Colts DC Ron Meeks.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

From first-round bye to season-long bye

Today the Tennessee Titans lost to the Baltimore Ravens and the Carolina Panthers lost to the Arizona Cardinals. So much for a first-round bye being a benefit...

Depending on the outcome of Sunday's divisional-round games, the Arizona Cardinals and San Diego Chargers could host the NFC and AFC Championship Games, respectively.

The Chargers need to beat the Steelers and the Eagles need to beat the Giants for that to happen. While I can see the Eagles beating the Giants, I can't see the Chargers beating the Steelers. But then again, who expected the Cardinals to man handle the Panthers tonight?

The Cardinals were 9-7 and played in NFL's weakest division. They went 6-0 in the division, which means they were 3-7 in non-division games during the regular season. And the Chargers were 4-8 heading into week 14 of the NFL season.

With the amazing turnarounds in Atlanta and Miami to the quantity of significant games in weeks 16 and 17, this has been the most interesting NFL season I can remember.

But a Chargers vs Cardinals Super Bowl?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ravens advance to AFC Championship Game

With a 13-10 victory over the Tennessee Titans, the Baltimore Ravens advance the AFC Championship Game to face the ~~winner of Steelers vs Chargers~~ Steelers next Sunday.

Joe Flacco became the first rookie QB to win 2 playoff games. Last week, the Ravens beat the Dolphins in Miami.

While a questionable (lack of a) call on the delay of the game in the final drive hurt the Titans, the loss of Chris Johnson (12 carries for 71 yards) to the ankle injury and their 3 turnovers hurt worse.

All of their turnovers were committed in Ravens territory and after drives of 67 yards, 55 yards and 58 yards. The final turnover, a fumble lost in the 4th quarter, was recovered by the Ravens on their 1-yard line.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Titans Kevin Mawae to miss Ravens game

Tennessee Titans All-Pro center Kevin Mawae won't play against the Baltimore Ravens in tomorrow's divisional round playoff game.

Leroy Harris will start in Mawae's place. His only other start was against the Colts in the season finale, which was an insignificant game from the prospective of playoff seeding. So this will be Harris' first start in a game that means something.

"Our job is to teach everybody on the offensive line to communicate where everybody understands," Mawae said. "Leroy is at that stage right now.

"Maybe there's going to be a delay of recognition, some things that a 14- or 15-year vet would see, but ... this is a team thing. This is not Leroy Harris trying to win a football game against the Baltimore Ravens."

The Ravens' defense is 3rd against the run (81.4 ypg), 2nd against the pass (179.7 ypg) and 1st in INTs (27).

The Titans' offense, on the other hand, have been successful by running the ball (137.4 ypg - 7th in NFL) and by not turning the ball over (9 INTs are 3rd fewest in NFL and Vince Young had 2 of those).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Playoff seeds - matchups

255 NFL regular-season games have been played. 1 to go. And that game between the Hatfields and McCoys will determine the AFC West champion. In essence, it's a play-in or playoff game.

AFC Match-ups (Seed):

First-round byes: Tennessee Titans (1) and Pittsburgh Steelers (2)

(6) Baltimore Ravens at Miami Dolphins (3)
(5) Indianapolis Colts at winner of San Diego Chargers/Denver Broncos (4)

NFC Match-ups (Seed):

First-round byes: New York Giants (1) and Carolina Panthers (2)

(6) Philadelphia Eagles at Minnesota Vikings (3)
(5) Atlanta Falcons at Arizona Cardinals (4)

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Week 17 playoff scenarios

I can't recall an NFL season in recent memory with so many important matchups to decide entry into the post-season party like we have had last week and this week. Then again, I can't remember what I did 2 hours ago.

In any event, let's take a look at the current playoff picture. For simplicity sake, we ignore the possibility of a second tie this season.

Teams fall into 4 categories - playoff bound/seed locked, playoff bound/seed TBD, on playoff bubble and eliminated.

AFC Teams:

Playoff bound/seed locked:
Tennessee Titans (1), Pittsburgh Steelers (2), Indianapolis Colts (5)

Playoff bound/seed TBD:
none

On playoff bubble:
Miami Dolphins: Win AFC East and clinch 3 seed with win over Jets. A Dolphins' loss eliminates them from the playoffs.

New England Patriots: Win AFC East and clinch 3 seed with win over Bills and Jets win over Dolphins. Bill Belichick stopped short of saying he'd root for the Jets, but that's what he will be doing. If the Dolphins and Pats win, the Pats will get the 6 seed with a Ravens' loss.

New York Jets: Win AFC East and clinch 3 seed with win over Dolphins and Pats' loss to Buffalo. Loss to Dolphins eliminates Jets' hopes. If the Jets and Pats win, the Jets will get the 6 seed if the Ravens lose.

Baltimore Ravens: Clinch 6 seed with a win over Jaguars or a Patriots loss to Buffalo and a Jets loss to Dolphins.

Denver Broncos: Win AFC West and clinch 4 seed with win over Chargers. Loss eliminates Broncos.

San Diego Chargers: same as Denver Broncos.

Eliminated:
Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders

Continue reading "Week 17 playoff scenarios" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Merry Christmas Joe Flacco!

Due to injuries to the team's other QBs ahead of him, Joe Flacco was thrust into the starting QB gig for the Baltimore Ravens. Even in training camp when Kyle Boller and Troy Smith, Flacco was the only healthy QB for their fourth and final pre-season game.

Flacco remained as the regular-season starter out of necessity, played well and hasn't looked back.

In 15 games, Flacco has a QB rating of 78.2 and has thrown for 2674 yards, 14 TDs and 12 INTs. By comparison, the other rookie QB (Matt Ryan) has a QB rating of 89.7 and has thrown for 3280 yards, 15 TDs and 9 INTs. Ryan was considered more "NFL-ready" whereas Flacco was viewed as having more upside.

The most important Flacco stat is the Ravens' 10 wins and a chance for their 11th win Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars. A win puts the Ravens into the post-season as the sixth seed. The Falcons have clinched a playoff berth and have a shot at winning the division.

Since Flacco has started more than 80% of team's games in his first year, he will earn $750,000 as a per-year bonus throughout the remaining 4 years of his deal for a total of $3 million.

The Ravens took Joe Flacco with the 18th pick in the first round of the 2008 NFL Draft. The Falcons took Matt Ryan with the 3rd pick.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Maurice Jones-Drew to play Sunday vs Ravens

Maurice Jones-Drew, who suffered a bruised knee last week against the Colts, says he'll play against the Ravens. The Ravens are in the playoffs as the 6th seed with a win over the Jags.

"It's Ray Lewis, Bart Scott, Ed Reed, Terrell Suggs, Trevor Pryce - they've got some guys who can go," Drew said.

He then said with a smile: "If we didn't want a challenge we wouldn't be football players, we'd be sports writers."

I'm not sure sports writers aren't football players because they don't want a challenge. I'm going to go out on a limb and say it has more to do with (lack of) athletic ability.

Jones-Drew has 746 yards rushing to lead team and has 61 receptions (2nd on team to Matt Jones).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

AFC Playoff Picture

With 2 weeks to go, the AFC and NFC playoff races are interesting. We will take a team-by-team look at both conferences starting with the AFC. Here are current playoff seedings:

1. Tennessee Titans (12-2)
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (11-3)
3. New York Jets (9-5)
4. Denver Broncos (8-6)
5. Indianapolis Colts (10-4)
6. Baltimore Ravens (9-5)

AFC East:

New York Jets (9-5): The Jets win the division if they win out (at Seattle and vs Miami). Otherwise, they are 1 of 4 teams fighting for the 6th spot as the Colts are 10-4.

Miami Dolphins (9-5): The Dolphins win the division if they win out (at Kansas City and at NY Jets). Otherwise, they are 1 of 4 teams fighting for the 6th spot as the Colts are 10-4.

New England Patriots (9-5): The Patriots win the division if they win out (vs Arizona and at Buffalo) and the Dolphins and Jets both lose at least 1 game. Otherwise, they are 1 of 4 teams fighting for the 6th spot as the Colts are 10-4.

Buffalo Bills (6-8): Eliminated.

Continue reading "AFC Playoff Picture" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

A look at the AFC playoff picture

With a month remaining on the NFL schedule, it's do-or-die time for several AFC teams. For others, this month will be an opportunity to jockey for playoff positioning.

Here are the current AFC standings:

1. Tennessee Titans (11-1)
2. Pittsbugh Steelers (9-3)
3. New York Jets (8-4)
4. Denver Broncos (7-5)
5. Indianapolis Colts (8-4)
6. Baltimore Ravens (8-4)

Let's take a look at every AFC team by division. Team records are in parenthesis.

AFC East:

New York Jets (8-4): The Jets would have the 3 seed if the season ended today, but play in the tightest division and just lost to the team that would be the 4 seed. The Jets have an easy (relative to Steelers, Dolphins and Pats) remaining schedule with road games in San Francisco and Seattle and home games against Buffalo and Miami.

New England Patriots (7-5): The Patriots have suffered season-ending injuries to Adalius Thomas, Rodney Harrison, Laurence Maroney and, of course, Tom Brady. Matt Cassel has filled in admirably and has essentially written himself a huge lottery ticket as he enters free agency in the off-season. The Pats play 3 of their remaining 4 on the road. If they make the playoffs, it's most likely as the #6 seed.

Miami Dolphins (7-5): The 'Fins trail the Colts and Ravens by 1 game and are tied with the Patriots in the playoff race. What a turnaround for a team that finished 1-15, has a first-year coach (Tony Sparano) and lost their best player (Jason Taylor). Like the Pats, they finish up with 3 of 4 road games.

Buffalo Bills (6-6): Despite their strong 5-1 start, the Bills will need a miracle to make Donte Whitner's playoff guarantee come true. However, history hasn't been kind to this franchise when it comes to miracles.

Continue reading "A look at the AFC playoff picture" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Donovan McNabb was benched at halftime

The Eagles lost big to the Ravens today and Donovan McNabb was benched at halftime. Although McNabb was having a bad performance, the Eagles were only trailing by 3 points at the half.

Donovan McNabb was 8/18 for 59 yards and 2 INTs in the first half.

Kevin Kolb was not much better: 10/23 for 73 yards and 2 INTs in the second half.

The Eagles 5 remaining games are against their 3 division rivals and 2 prime time matchups against the Cardinals and the Browns.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Chris McAlister is done for year

The Baltimore Sun is reporting that Chris McAlister is going to have surgery on his knee and miss the rest of the season. He has PCL and cartilage damage in his knee.

"He expressed to me that he felt like it was in his best interest," Harbaugh said. "The knee is a problem. It's a problem because of the position he plays. It just wears the knee down. So, he has to get that corrected."

"Chris is one of our best players. You definitely don't want to lose a guy like that," cornerback Fabian Washington said. "I feel like I'm going to have to step up and play big because those are some big shoes to fill. I've got to pretty much just do what I've been doing, but just raise the bar."

"He didn't even have to go out there and try to participate with that bad knee," cornerback Corey Ivy said. "Playing the position that he plays, you definitely need your legs. You need two healthy ones at that. So he hung in there and stuck it out as long as he could and decided to have the surgery, which is probably the best thing for him and his career."

The Baltimore Ravens currently rank 4th in the NFL in passing defense (182.1 ypg) and has one of 7 defenses to record double-digit interceptions as a team. They are also 2nd in the NFL in allowing opposing teams to complete only 52.4% of their passes.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Straight A's on mid-year review for rookie head coaches

Both the Baltimore Ravens and the Washington Redskins have first-year head coaches in John Harbaugh and Jim Zorn. While they are doing better than I expected, I expected the other two first-year head coaches to really struggle and need a lot of time to turnaround their organizations.

I was wrong. Tony Sparano, head coach of the Miami Dolphins, is 4-4 and Mike Smith, head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, is 5-3 heading into week 10.

Tony Sparano was brought to Miami from the Dallas Cowboys by Bill Parcells. And you can argue that the Tuna is the "coach," but Sparano has the respect of the Dolphins players. The Dolphins are 4-4 and a game out of first in the ultra-tight AFC East race. If they didn't give up a touchdown with 3 seconds to go in the Texans game, they would be in a 4-way tie for first.

In this copycat league, other teams are copying the Dolphins and employing some form of the "Wildcat" offense that the Dolphins successfully used to shock the Pats. The way that Sparano's presence is felt is where it is not. The Dallas Cowboys offensive line, led by several Pro-Bowlers and Sparano last year, look awful in 2008 without Sparano to keep them focused.

Mike Smith inherited a mess. Last year's coach, Bobby Petrino quit 13 games into the season like a coward. Mike Vick was sent to prison for his involvement in the dog-fighting scandal. Although the Falcons had more wins (4) than the Dolphins (1) did in 2007, you could argue that the Falcons were a worse team.

Fast forward a season and Smith has a rookie QB (Matt Ryan) playing like a poised veteran and Michael "The Burner" Turner, a first-time, every-week starter at RB. Ryan has only thrown 5 INTs in 8 games. Turner is averaging almost 100 yards rushing per game. Roddy White has picked up where he left off last year. In the past 6 games, he's had at least 5 receptions every week and 4 100-yard receiving games.

Here are the current standings through week 10:

-- Jim Zorn, Washington Redskins (6-3, 2nd place in the NFC East)
-- John Harbaugh, Baltimore Ravens (5-3, 2nd place in the AFC North)
-- Mike Smith, Atlanta Falcons (5-3, 3rd place in the NFC South)
-- Tony Sparano, Miami Dolphins (4-4, 4th place in the AFC East)

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ravens placed "bounty" on Ward, Mendenhall?

The NFL is looking into comments from Terrell Suggs about a "bounty" being placed on Hines Ward and Rashard Mendenhall.

During the "2 Live Stews" syndicated radio show on Oct. 17, when he was asked, "Did you all put a bounty out on that young man [Mendenhall]," Suggs replied, "Definitely. The bounty was out on him and the bounty was out on [Ward] -- we just didn't get him between the whistles."

Also during the interview, Suggs called Ward "a dirty player" and "a cheap-shot artist. ... We got something in store for him."

Terrell Suggs has now clarified saying that he didn't say there was a bounty. But was that because he feels like he was misunderstood? Or because the NFL is looking into it?

"There wasn't any bounty," Suggs said, according to the newspaper. "He [the talk show host] asked me if there was a bounty and I just said I'm going to keep a watch on the guy. He [Ward] broke some guy's jaw last week, and he tried to cheap-shot JJ [Jarret Johnson]. He has also cheap-shotted Ed Reed. We're just going to be on alert the next time we play him."

Hines Ward is one of my favorite players in the league. So many WRs hate/can't block and Ward is by far the best blocking WR. I also love how he usually has a smile on his face when he's getting hit.

To use Polamalu's words, Ward is not a "pansy."

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

AFC North Preview

All four AFC North teams play half of their games versus teams that made the playoffs in 2007. The Steelers have the toughest schedule in the NFL (based on 2007 records), but the other 3 teams have a strength of schedule in the Top 8. Therefore, I expect one and only one team from the AFC North to make the post-season in 2009 (again).

PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Prediction: 8-8 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: The Steelers have the strongest schedule in the NFL. In fact, the opponents fall into only 2 categories: division foe or team with a .500 record or better. I believe that the Steelers are the best team in the AFC North, however, with their schedule is reason for Steelers' fans to temper their enthusiasm about 2008. Arguably the 4 best teams in the NFL are the Patriots, Colts, Chargers and Cowboys. The Steelers play all 4 of those teams in a 5-week span beginning November 9th. The Steelers added a couple of playmakers with their first 2 draft picks this year: Rashard Mendenhall and Limas Sweed. However, their biggest question mark is how will the offensive line protect Big Ben, who was 2nd in the NFL in QB Rating (104.1) behind Tom Brady. The schedule is too tough to improve upon last year's 10-win season, but they will win enough games to win the division.

Interesting Stat/Fact: The Steelers allowed the fewest yards per game (266.4) last year.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 153-103 (.598)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (8): at Jacksonville, vs NY Giants, at Washington, vs Indianapolis, vs San Diego, at New England, vs Dallas, vs Tennessee

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 29 wins (9.7 per season)

CLEVELAND BROWNS
Prediction: 7-9 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: The Cleveland Browns were the feel-good story of 2007. They went from 4 wins in 2006 to 10 wins in 2007. It was the first time they won double-digit games this decade and they made the biggest year-to-year improvement (6 games) of any team in the NFL. After a poor start (4-10, 1 INT) for Charlie Frye week 1, Frye was benched and traded to Seattle. Derek Anderson took over and had a Pro Bowl campaign. However, if you look closer at his numbers, you'll notice that in 4 games (week 2, 6, 8 and 10), Anderson threw 14 TDs and only 1 INT. However, in the other 12 games, he threw 15 TDs and 18 INTs. The Browns were third worst in the NFL last year in yards allowed (359.6 ypg), but they made two big additions to the defensive line: Shaun Rogers and Corey Williams. They have tons of playmakers (Braylon Edwards, Kellen Winslow, Josh Cribbs as return guy, etc.), but give up big plays too. I expect the Steelers to fend the Browns off again this year. And with the tough schedule for all AFC North teams, it's unrealistic to expect the wildcard to come out of the North. The Browns playoff drought continues although they have more talent (and tough opponents on their schedule) than my #6 seed.

Interesting Stat/Fact: Derek Anderson threw 10 INTs and 9 TDs in final 7 games of 2007. None of those 7 games were against playoff-bound opponents.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 140-116 (.547)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (8): vs Dallas, vs Pittsburgh, vs NY Giants, at Washington, at Jacksonville, vs Indianapolis, at Tennessee, at Pittsburgh

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 20 wins (6.7 per season)

CINCINNATI BENGALS
Prediction: 6-10 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: Although Marvin Lewis was known for being a defensive coach, the Bengals strength is its offense. However, questions abound on offense. Chad Johnson (Ocho Cinco) has a torn labrum, T.J. Houshmandzadeh has naggin hamstring injury, Carson Palmer is recovering from a broken nose and the team cut (now Lions RB) Rudi Johnson, who came to camp with 16 pounds of added muscle but lingering health concerns. With their injuries at WR, they resorted to re-signing troubled WR Chris Henry, who will serve a suspension through week 4. With a 6-10 record in 2008, the question is will Marvin Lewis be back in 2009?

Interesting Stat/Fact: Chad Johnson has legally changed his name to Chad Javon Ocho Cinco. Now, can the NFL disallow him from putting "Ocho Cinco" on the back of his jersey?

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 140-116 (.547)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (8): vs Tennessee, at NY Giants, at Dallas, vs Pittsburgh, vs Jacksonville, at Pittsburgh, at Indianapolis, vs Washington

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 26 wins (8.7 per season)

BALTIMORE RAVENS
Prediction: 5-11 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: Their run defense was strong in 2007 allowing only 79.3 rushing ypg. Only the Vikings were better. However, they were in the bottom half in the league in passing yards allowed (222.3 ypg). Plus their defense didn't make plays. In 2007, they recorded a total of 25 interceptions and forced fumbles. Only 3 teams (Jets, 49ers and Eagles) did worse. On offense, they lack playmakers and an experienced QB. With Kyle Boller and Troy Smith out for the opener against Cincinnati, the Ravens have brought in Todd Bouman as a back-up QB as rookie Joe Flacco gets the start week 1. For the Ravens to make the post-season in 2008, their defense needs to bounce back in a big way. With the defense getting older and the uncertainty surrounding Ed Reed's health/status in week 1 (and more), 2008 will much more of the same...

Interesting Stat/Fact: Derrick Mason, who turned 34 in January, had the 1st 100-reception season of his career last year.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 141-115 (.551)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (8): at Pittsburgh, vs Tennessee, at Indianapolis, at NY Giants, vs Washington, vs Pittsburgh, at Dallas, vs Jacksonville

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 25 wins (8.3 per season)

Check back for other 6 division previews (see AFC East Preview), playoff predictions and post-season award predictions to be released this week...

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ray Rice Looks Solid in Loss

Before Willis McGahee needed to have his knee scope, Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Cam Cameron indicated that he was going to increase McGahee’s workload this season.

“There is no question in my mind that Willis McGahee can be a three-down back,” offensive coordinator Cam Cameron said. “I think this is the right time in his career to do it. With his ability, there is no reason why he shouldn’t excel on three downs.”

But the Baltimore Ravens invested a second-round draft pick on Rutgers RB Ray Rice. With Willis McGahee out, Ray Rice capitalized in their pre-season loss to Minnesota.

The only bright spot for the Ravens’ offense was Rice, who ran for 77 yards and a touchdown.

The Vikings led the league last season by allowing 74.1 rushing yards a game. By halftime, Rice had darted for 71 yards.

Harbaugh downplayed any potential battle for the starting running back job.

“[When] Willis is healthy and he’s ready to go, he’s our starter,” Harbaugh said. “But [Rice] played like a starter.”

I agree with Harbaugh that Willis McGahee should be the starter. However, should the Ravens be increasing McGahee’s workload when he comes back and he’s healthy like Cameron suggests? It doesn’t make sense to me. In today’s era, RBs should share the load. It’s such a physically demanding position. Why not try to preserve both?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Daily Blitz discusses NFL rumors and news, NCAA football, Fantasy Football and the NFL draft and is the blog for Eat, Drink and Sleep Football.

February 28, 2010

January 03, 2010

January 01, 2010

December 09, 2009

December 03, 2009

November 28, 2009

November 06, 2009

October 31, 2009

October 23, 2009

October 17, 2009

October 16, 2009

October 09, 2009

October 03, 2009

September 26, 2009

September 19, 2009

September 18, 2009

September 10, 2009

September 09, 2009

September 05, 2009

September 04, 2009

August 27, 2009

August 24, 2009

August 16, 2009

July 04, 2009

May 11, 2009

May 10, 2009

May 03, 2009

April 25, 2009

April 15, 2009

April 06, 2009

March 20, 2009

March 18, 2009

March 17, 2009

March 15, 2009

March 13, 2009

March 05, 2009

March 03, 2009

February 27, 2009

February 18, 2009

February 17, 2009

February 16, 2009

February 02, 2009

February 01, 2009

January 31, 2009

January 26, 2009

January 20, 2009

January 17, 2009

January 15, 2009