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February 22, 2010

Vince Wilfork: the $7 million man, for now

Most would not describe a guaranteed one-year salary of $7 million as a "slap in the face."

Last month, however, Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork described the franchise tag, which pays a player a guaranteed one-year salary of the average of the top five salaries at his position, as a "slap in the face." The average salary of the top five defensive tackles is $7 million.

Today the Patriots "slapped" Wilfork in the face by assigning him as their franchise player unless the two sides can reach a long-term deal, which is the team's goal according to a statement released by the team.

"...It is because of Vince's importance to this organization that we have assigned the franchise designation as we continue to work toward a long-term agreement. We are hopeful that Vince will remain a Patriot for many years to come."

The tag is of the non-exclusive variety meaning that other teams can offer Wilfork a contract, however, the Patriots would have the ability to match the offer. If they declined, the other team would owe the Patriots two first-round draft picks as compensation.

Wilfork, the team's first-round pick in 2004, is a two-time Pro Bowler (2007 and 2009). He has 303 career tackles and 7.5 sacks in six seasons.

February 21, 2010

One more year in Foxborough for Moss?

Receiver Randy Moss is about to enter the final year of his three-year contract with the Patriots and he doesn't "think they going to extend my contract," according to Christopher Gasper of the Boston Globe.

“It’s the business of it, man. You’ve got to understand the business of football,’’ said Moss. “There is not bad blood. There is no animosity on my side or their side. I think it’s just the nature of the business of the NFL. You know the Patriots don’t really pay, so when I got my second contract from them that was a blessing in disguise. I understand the business. I don’t think they’re going to re-sign me back. I’m not mad. I’m not bitter. It’s just the way things are in this NFL, so like I said after this year I’ll be looking for a new team.’’

Moss is due to make $6.4 million with the Patriots in 2010. But is it possible that Moss has already played his final season with the Patriots?

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk speculates about the possibility of Moss getting traded, especially after these comments, back to Minnesota.

If you remember, one of the differences that Brett Favre had when he was still in Green Bay was that the front office did not pursue Moss before he landed in New England.

"It is disappointing," Favre said in May 2007. "We could have gotten him for less money than New England did. He wanted to play in Green Bay for the amount of money we would have paid him. It [was] well worth the risk."

With or without Moss in Minnesota, it's been my opinion that Favre would return for another season. As Florio points out, however, adding Moss to the weapons in the Vikings' offense, which ranked second only to New Orleans in scoring, would help to ensure an earlier commitment of a Favre return.

That said, a trade seems unlikely to me.

After having knee surgery at the beginning of this month, the status of receiver Wes Welker is in question for the start of the 2010 season. And his recovery could take up to 12 months, which would keep him out for the entire year.

So if Moss is traded and Welker isn't ready to go, that could potentially leave the Patriots with Julian Edelman, who played well when Welker was out, as the team's top receiver to enter week 1.

Although Moss says that he separated his shoulder in week five, he still finished the season tied for the league lead in touchdown receptions (13) and tied for fifth in receiving yards (1,264). However, Moss didn't reach the 100-yard receiving milestone in any of his final seven games despite doing so in five of his first nine games.

With a recent history of deals with Oakland (acquiring Moss, trading Richard Seymour, etc.), wouldn't it be funny if the Patriots could convince Al Davis that Moss is the big-play threat that the Raiders need to help JaMarcus Russell reach his potential?

January 03, 2010

Wes Welker suffers knee injury

Not only did the Patriots lose to the Texans in the season finale today, they lost receiver Wes Welker to a knee injury in the first quarter.

Although there hasn't been an update to the status of Welker for the playoffs, it's not usually a good thing when a player suffers a knee injury making a cut.

Not too good," [Wes' father] Leland Welker said, per Adam Kilgore of the Boston Globe. "We’re sick. We’re absolutely sick. We take all those hits and stuff all season long. And then just one fluke cut, and he just blows it out.”

Despite missing weeks 2 and 3, Welker leads the NFL in receptions with 123 for 1348 yards and four touchdowns. Both his receptions and yardage totals set career bests for Welker.

The Patriots would rely on rookie Julian Edelman, who had 10 receptions for 103 yards today, to step up and fill the role that Welker plays.

Next week, the Pats will host a wildcard-round game as either the three seed (if Cincinnati loses tonight) or the four seed (if Cincinnati wins).

December 05, 2009

The Weekly Blitz - Week 13

Every week, I pick three NFL games against the spread (ATS) and here are my week 13 picks:

Patriots -4.5 (over Dolphins): The Patriots are coming off a tough loss on a short week. And they are on the road against a division rival. The Saints held Tom Brady and the Patriots to no passing scores. But the Dolphins are coming off a disappointing loss as well against the Bills. Brady should bounce back against the league's 23rd-ranked pass defense. Meanwhile Laurence Maroney has scored a rushing TD (or two) in six consecutive games. The last time the Patriots lost two consecutive games was in November 2006.

Titans +6.5 (over Colts): I'm not necessarily calling for an outright upset here (although I wouldn't be shocked to see it happen). With the exception of a meaningless week 17 game last year, here are the point differentials in games Vince Young has started against the Colts: -1, +3, -2, +6. There's nothing wrong with winning close games, especially when you're 11-0, but the Colts have engineered come-from-behind victories in the fourth quarter in their past five games. With Chris Johnson running all over opponents (six straight games with 125+ yards), the Colts playing close games recently and the historical trend of close games in this series, give me the points.

Vikings -3.0 (over Cardinals): The Vikings are as complete as any team in football. With five weeks to go, they rank fifth in total offense and eighth in total defense. And despite all the will-he-or-won't-he-return drama, Brett Favre is a legitmate MVP contender. He's tied with Peyton Manning for second in TD passes (24) behind Drew Brees (27), but Favre has thrown only three interceptions. I expect Kurt Warner to return this week, but the Cardinals' pass offense is considerably less explosive with Matt Leinart under center.

Click here to see picks from all of our "handicappers."

December 03, 2009

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

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

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

December 02, 2009

Fantasy Football: RB Start'em for Week 13

For some, this is the do-or-die week in fantasy football as many leagues begin their playoffs in week 14. Fortunately for fantasy owners, there are plenty of favorable matchups for some second-tier running backs.

Here are five running backs that are starts for week 13:

Matt Forte, Bears (vs Rams): Since his bye in week five, this first-round draft pick has exceeded 41 rushing yards only once. However, Forte has been a contributor in the passing game as he ranks second in the NFL in receiving yards (433) among RBs. During typical fantasy football playoff weeks (14 to 16), Forte will face three elite run defenses (ranks): Green Bay (4th), Baltimore (6th) and Minnesota (2nd). In week 13, however, Forte faces St. Louis, who has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing running backs in the past three weeks.

Knowshon Moreno, Broncos (vs Chiefs): Moreno has rushed for 80+ yards in three consecutive weeks. In week 13, Moreno faces Kansas City, which has allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing running backs over the past five weeks.

Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers (vs Raiders): Mendenhall has rushed for 400 yards against the first three AFC West opponents he's faced. The Raiders, this week's opponents, has allowed a league-high 17 rushing touchdowns in 11 games. And only the Bills and Browns have allowed more fantasy points to opposing running backs this season.

LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers (vs Browns): While 28 running backs have rushed for more yards than LT, only six have rushed for more touchdowns. Tomlinson has rushed for seven of his eight TDs in the past five weeks. This week should be more of the same as he faces Cleveland, who has allowed the second-most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season.

Laurence Maroney, Patriots (vs Dolphins): Another RB that has had the nose for the endzone has been Maroney. Maroney has rushed for a score in six consecutive games and he has scored all eight of his touchdowns during that six-game span. In the last six games, Maroney is averaging over 14 fantasy points per game. While the Dolphins rank in the top 12 in fewest rushing yards allowed, only six teams have given up more rushing touchdowns than Miami has.

November 26, 2009

The Weekly Blitz - Week 12

Last week was my worst week of the season in picking games against the spread (ATS) as I had my first O-for of the season. My goose egg dropped my 2009 cumulative record to 18-15 ATS.

With no help from me, collectively, we (our four "handicappers") went 7-5 in week 11 to improve to 72-59-1 (55%) versus the spread on the season.

Reader beware but here are my week 12 picks:

Dolphins -3 (over Bills): What the Dolphins do well the Bills do poorly. Despite having one of the league's best pass defenses, the Bills rank 31st in the NFL in rushing yards allowed (165.9 ypg) and rushing touchdowns (15). Even without Ronnie Brown, the Dolphins have an explosive running game as evidenced by Ricky Williams' three-TD (two rushing, one receiving) performance in prime-time against the Panthers last week. Winners of five of their past seven, Miami has gotten itself back on track and into the playoff picture while the Bills are conducting seven-hour interviews with potential coaching replacements.

Seahawks -3 (over Rams): The Seahawks are bad. The Rams are bad. But in this case, "bad" does not equal "bad." Granted the Rams are playing better lately, but if you remember, the Seahawks beat the Rams 28-0 in their first matchup in week 1. The Rams' offense is one-dimensional with Steven Jackson and the Rams will be without QB Marc Bulger this week and perhaps the rest of the season. Facing eight-men fronts, it really is amazing that Jackson is second in the NFL in rushing yards. But the Seahawks have a much more balanced team than the Rams and should be able to put this one away early.

Patriots +1.5 (over Saints): The Saints face their biggest challenge to their unbeaten streak when they host the Patriots on Monday Night Football. The Saints have scored 24 points or more every game this season, but they have allowed five of their past six opponents to score 20+ points and they haven't yet faced an offense nearly as explosive as the Patriots' offense. Tom Brady has thrown for 300+ yards in five consecutive games. During that five-game span, the Patriots have held four of their opponents to 17 points or less. The lone exception was Indianapolis, who scored 21 of their 35 points in the fourth quarter. With two high-powered offenses, I'm taking the defense that has been more consistent lately.

To view the picks of all of our "handicappers" for week 12, click here.

November 21, 2009

Fantasy Football: Week 11 RB Duds

Here are three running backs that I would sit on my bench for week 11:

Marion Barber, Cowboys: The last time that Barber had over 53 rushing yards was in week 2 against the New York Giants. And MBIII has reached paydirt only once in his past five games. Meanwhile Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones wants to see more of Felix Jones as JJ said, "I certainly understand balance, but I'd sure like to see [Felix Jones] with the ball more." I would expect Barber to get more than five carries like he did last week. Since the Redskins have allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs this season, however, Barber's production may be limited even if he were to receive a full workload.

Marshawn Lynch, Bills: After serving his three-game suspension, Lynch has played six games and hasn't reached 70 rushing yards in any of them. And he has only one rushing touchdown this season. On the season, Lynch is averaging 42.3 rushing yards per game and 3.2 yards per carry. In the past two games, Lynch has had only nine carries in each game. Until Lynch shows that he's worthy of a starting spot on your fantasy team, he should remain on your bench.

Laurence Maroney, Patriots: In the past four games, Maroney has rushed for a touchdown every week. Considering his best performance in the first five weeks of the season was a 32-yard game with no touchdowns, Maroney has been a nice surprise for fantasy owners lately. But last week Maroney only received one more carry than Kevin Faulk and Maroney had a critical fumble inside the 5-yard line. Meanwhile Sammy Morris is a game-time decision so Maroney could receive a couple less carries should Morris play. Over the past five weeks, only five teams have allowed fewer fantasy points to opposing running backs than the Jets have.

See my RB studs for week 11.

Randy Moss vs Darrelle Revis, round two

Here are the stats (receptions and receiving yards) for Patriots receiver Randy Moss in his first three games of the year: 12-141, 4-24 and 10-116.

Can you guess in which of those three games Moss faced Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis?

If you recall, Moss said that it was safety help over the top that led to his lack of production in week two and that there is no such thing as a "shutdown corner."

That said, it's time for round two between these two and Revis is standing by his words.

“Everybody saw the game, everybody knew I was in man coverage,” Revis said (via the Boston Herald). “He’s supposed to say that . . . (That) day wasn’t his day. He got shut out, and he was frustrated about it. Cool. I don’t have nothing against him. I still think he’s one of the best receivers in the league. If that’s what he said, that’s on him. We play them twice a year. I have to see him again, he has to see me again.”

“I don’t feed into talking and all that crazy stuff. I’m a 12-year vet. So that stuff don’t bother me,” Moss said. “My biggest thing is, when you talk like that, you better back it up. So, we’ll see. We’ll see what goes down.”

In his past four games, Moss has 28 receptions for 524 yards and six touchdowns including three 100-yard games.

If you have Randy Moss on your fantasy football team, he's a must-start even when he's facing arguably the league's top cornerback (no disrepsect intended for Oakland's Nnamdi Asomugha). That said, I would temper your expectations if you expect another 100-yard, multi-touchdown performance from Moss.

November 15, 2009

Colts edge Pats in thriller

It's the easily the best modern-day rivalry in the NFL.

And tonight it didn't disappoint.

The Colts, who trailed by 17 points in the fourth quarter, scored three fourth-quarter touchdowns to edge the Patriots 35-34 to remain unbeaten.

The Patriots and coach Bill Belichick set up the Colts in their final drive by going for it on fourth and two and coming up short on a pass to Kevin Faulk.

Had the Patriots held on to win, the Colts would have fallen to 8-1 with only a one-game lead over the Patriots, who would have held the tie-breaker, and the Bengals.

The Colts have now won 18 consecutive regular-season games -- nine wins to end 2008 and nine wins to begin 2009. They trail only the Patriots for the longest streak (21).

The Colts next four games are against Baltimore, Houston, Tennessee and Denver.

November 06, 2009

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

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

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

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

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

October 31, 2009

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

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

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

October 23, 2009

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

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

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

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

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

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

October 18, 2009

Brady throws five TDs in quarter, sets NFL record

Apparently, the Titans can give up points faster than I can type.

I just finished typing up a post about Brady's four passing touchdowns in one quarter. Well, I should have waited.

Brady has thrown a fifth touchdown in the quarter and a second to Wes Welker. Randy Moss has also caught two touchdowns and Kevin Faulk caught one touchdown as well.

For the half, Brady has completed 24 of 28 passes for 345 yards, five touchdowns and no interceptions. By comparison, Titans QB Kerry Collins has completed one of 10 passes for 15 yards and an interception.

It must be a huge shock for Collins each week to practice against the Titans secondary during the week and then face one that, um, doesn't suck in real games.

Brady has thrown 4 TDs in second quarter and driving

Boy, oh boy, are the Tennessee Titans efficient.

They've managed to give more points in one half than they normally give up in a full game and they normally give up a lot in a full game. Technically, "a lot" is defined as 27.8 points per game, which ranks 29th in the NFL through week 5.

There is still some time left in the second half, but the Titans are trailing 38-0. Patriots QB Tom Brady is 19 of 20 for 310 yards in the game. And he has thrown all four of his touchdowns in the second quarter.

As remarkable as the turnaround of the Miami Dolphins in 2008 (winning an extra ten games from the previous season's record), the Titans plummet is equally remarkable.

Last year, the Titans finished 13-3 and were the top playoff seed in the AFC and now there on the verge of an 0-6 start. And one thing is for sure. The Titans are getting better and better at losing.

October 17, 2009

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

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

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

October 16, 2009

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

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

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

October 10, 2009

Who will step up for the Patriots with Taylor out?

The Patriots will be without their leading rushing (Fred Taylor) for a long time -- if not the entire season. That means, there is an opportunity for the other backs on the roster to step up and fill the void.

And Laurence Maroney, the team's second-leading rusher, is looking for himself and the group to do just that.

We got Kev here, Sammy here, BenJarvus, so it’s going to be a team effort. I know I’m not going to be able to do it by myself,’’ Maroney said. “I know these guys are going to help out, but I feel like I’m going to have to carry most of the load.’’

Although Maroney is second on the team in rushing yards (78) and carries (27), he's only averaging 2.9 yards per carry and hasn't scored yet this season. And he had only six rushing yards on seven carries against the Ravens last week.

I expect to see Sammy Morris, who had 138 rushing yards against Denver last year, emerge from this group as the go-to guy at some point.

In his 23 games played for the Patriots, Morris has 254 carries for 1152 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also has 32 receptions for 295 yards.

October 09, 2009

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Weekly Blitz - Week 5

We're a quarter of the way through the NFL season and I'm disappointed with my mediocre performance (6-6, .500) in picking games against the spread (ATS) thus far. Although these picks are for entertainment purposes only, it was more entertaining last year as I finished 63.3% ATS.

Here's to a more "entertaining" week in week 5:


Patriots -3 (over Broncos): The Denver Broncos are 4-0 and remain as one of only two unbeaten teams in the AFC. Yet for a second week in a row they are home underdogs. Despite the initial criticisms and challenges Josh McDaniels faced, he and defensive coordinator Mike Nolan have done a great coaching job in the Mile High city. Kyle Orton (QB rating 97.7) has outplayed Jay Cutler (QB rating 89.3) and the Broncos lead the NFL in scoring defense (6.5 points per game). The Broncos are second in the total defense (239.8 yards per game) and in sacks (15). While the Broncos are certainly better than I -- and everyone else -- thought, their level of competition has been relatively low. Although the Patriots have lost Fred Taylor for considerable time (if not the season), it appears that the Patriots offense is beginning to click as they converted three scores in five trips to the redzone against Baltimore.

Vikings -10 (over Rams): These two teams are polar opposites. The Rams are the league's worst team and Minnesota is one of the few unbeatens remaining in the NFC. Through four games, the Rams still have no rushing touchdowns and their passing offense ranks second-to-last (152.8 yards per game). The Vikings are one of two teams to not allow a rushing touchdown yet this season and lead the NFL in sacks (16). The other team to not have allowed a rushing touchdown (San Francisco) shut out the Rams 35-0 last weel. The Rams have lost three of their four games by more than 20 points. My only concern is the Vikings let up and take their opponent for granted in a short week after an emotional divisional game. But they are easily 20 points better than their opponent.

Texans +5.5 (over Cardinals): Although the numbers through four games don't show it, this game should be an old-fashioned shootout. Both the Texans and Cardinals have explosive offenses and this will be a game of high interest for many fantasy owners as both teams are stacked with talented skill players. However, the Cardinals have a one-dimensional offense as they rank second-to-last in rushing offense (60.7 yards per game). And as bad as the Texans have been against the run, they shut down the Raiders (granted, it was the Raiders) running game last week.

See all picks from The Weekly Blitz crew.

October 08, 2009

Fred Taylor could be out for year

Patriots running back Fred Taylor had ankle surgery today to repair "severe ligament damage," per Christopher Gasper of the Boston Globe.

Due to injuries in his past, Taylor was dubbed "Fragile Freddie." Although he had stayed healthy in his recent past, he ended last season on Injured Reserve (IR) and missed the final three games of the season.

And according to Gasper, it's likely that this injury will end Taylor's season although there's a possibility that Taylor will be back in the final month of the year.

On the season, Taylor is leading the Patriots in rushing with 201 rushing yards on 45 carries.

The other running backs on the roster are Laurence Maroney, Kevin Faulk, Sammy Morris and BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Maroney is second on the team in rushing with 78 yards on 27 attempts (2.9 average).

October 03, 2009

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

September 27, 2009

Wes Welker out for second week in a row

The Patriots, who have thrown the ball 100 times in two games, will be without receiver Wes Welker for a second game in a row.

Per Christopher Gasper of the Boston Globe, the Patriots will have only four active receivers -- Randy Moss, Joey Galloway, Julian Edelman and Sam Aiken.

In week 1, Welker had 12 receptions for 93 yards. Edelman had a big week (eight receptions, 98 yards) in Welker's absence last week.

September 26, 2009

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

September 23, 2009

Bart Scott says Revis was "the better man" (over Moss) Sunday


Surprise, surprise. Jets linebacker Bart Scott has voiced his opinion on the performance Sunday by Patriots receiver Randy Moss and specifically on the coverage applied by teammate Darrelle Revis on Moss.

Moss, who had previously stated that Revis needed safety help over the top to shut down Moss, had four receptions for 24 yards.

"All week he was talking about bring a shutdown corner, but there really are no shutdown corners in the league because they have help most of the game," Moss said (via The Providence Journal) Sunday. "I probably could be a shutdown corner if I had (Pats' safety Brandon) Meriweather over the top for the whole game. You have to give credit where credit is due; I'm not taking anything away from their whole defense, they made plays and we didn't get things done."

Whether or not Revis is the best corner in the league is debatable, but he is definitely a "shutdown corner." And his play backs that up.

In week one against the Texans, Revis shut down Andre Johnson, who had four receptions for 35 yards.

Johnson and Moss are widely considered to be in the top four or so receivers in the league along with others like Arizona's Larry Fitzgerald and Detroit's Calvin Johnson.

Per Ian Rappaport of the Boston Herald, Scott said, “I hear the easy cop-out by Moss that anyone can play cornerback. Sometimes, you got to give the man his credit, that (Revis) was the better man that day. It doesn’t take away from the fact that Moss is a great receiver in this league. But (Revis) shut him down. Randy was coming across the middle real slow.”

Scott went on to say, “Tell [Moss] to man up and come across the middle like a man if he wants to be a complete receiver in this league.”

The Jets and Patriots play each other again on Sunday, November 22nd in Foxboro.

September 19, 2009

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.

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.

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.

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.

September 18, 2009

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.

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.

September 17, 2009

Kerry Rhodes is out to "embarrass" Patriots


Jets safety Kerry Rhodes is an idiot. Confident. Brash. Unafraid. But stupid.

Here's what Rhodes said about his goal for the Jets' home opener against their division rivals:
You go out from the first quarter on, from the first play on, and try to embarrass them,” Rhodes said, per Gary Myers of the NY Daily News. “Not just go out there and try to win, try to embarrass them. Try to make them feel bad when they leave here. We don’t want to just beat them. We want to send a message to them, ‘We’re not backing down from you and we expect to win this game, and it’s not going to be luck, it’s not going to be a mistake.’ ”
The Jets played one game under Ryan and Sanchez and played well. And it's great to be confident.

But even trash-talking coach Rex Ryan didn't seem to be thrilled with Rhodes' comments, according to Rich Cimini of the NY Daily News.

"That's fine. I think they just want to win," Ryan told Cimini. "Our franchise has been embarrassed; eight straight losses at home (to the Patriots). I'm sure that's probably where that tone was coming from."

Of course, the Patriots are always motivated and Bill Belichick will always try to prepare them to win. And maybe Rhodes' comments or Ryan's comments or anyone's comments won't make the Pats play harder (than they would have without the comments).

But why chance it?

In our weekly picks against the spread (ATS), I was 3-0 last week and picked 63.3% of games correctly ATS last year. To me, this is the lock of the week.

If I were a betting man, I would take the Pats and give the 3.5 points. This game just might be an embarrassment.

September 15, 2009

Jerod Mayo left game with knee injury


Patriots linebacker Jerod Mayo, last year's AP Defensive Rookie of the Year, left last night's season opener in the first quarter with a knee injury and did not return.

In Mayo's absence, Gary Guyton and Adalius Thomas took over in the middle.

Everybody had to pick their game up when Jerod went out,’’ said Thomas. “We didn’t really know what was going on. Me and Gary went in there and just had to communicate with guys. Guys moving around everywhere. It was definitely an adjustment on the fly.’’

As one might expect, coach Bill Belichick did not offer any additional information on Mayo's status after the game, according to Ian Rapoport of the Boston Herald.

However, Mayo told a teammate that “It’s nothing serious.” And considering he was able to "walk under his own power and without a limp" to the sidelines and then to the locker room, it doesn't appear to be too serious.

More information should be made available on Mayo's status today. The Patriots play the Jets in the Meadowlands on Sunday.

September 10, 2009

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

September 08, 2009

2009 AFC East Prediction

Over the next two days, we will project the final standings and team records for all eight divisions as well as our post-season picks. We'll begin with the AFC East.


NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Prediction: 12-4 (Patriots Schedule | Patriots Forum)

The Patriots missed the playoffs last year as many predicted after the Pats had lost Tom Brady to a season-ending knee injury in the first half of the first game of the season. Yet the Patriots barely missed the post-season with an 11-5 record (the same record as the division-winning Miami Dolphins) even if that is five fewer wins than they had with Brady at the helm in 2007. Although they had a scare in the third pre-season game when Washington's Albert Haynesworth landed on his shoulder, Brady looked like his 2007 self when he hit Randy Moss on two touchdown passes in the first half. In 2008, the Patriots finished fourth in the NFL in rushing TDs (21) and sixth in rushing yards (2278). They finished ranked eighth in the NFL in scoring defense (19.3 ppg) and tenth in total defense (309.0) last year. Although they've traded Richard Seymour to Oakland over Labor Day weekend, it's hard to imagine that the balanced, well-coached Patriots team will win fewer games than they did in 2008 now that they have a healthy Tom Brady.

Strength of Schedule: 2009 opponents had a .590 winning percentage in 2008 (3rd)

2008 Playoff Teams on Schedule (7): vs Atlanta, vs Baltimore, vs Tennessee, vs Miami, at Indianapolis, at Miami, vs Carolina

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 39 (13.0 per season)

Continue reading "2009 AFC East Prediction" »

September 07, 2009

Cable on Seymour deal: "There are some issues still"

Per David White of the San Francisco Chronicle, Raiders coach Tom Cable says the deal that will send the Raiders' 2011 first-round pick to New England for defensive lineman Richard Seymour hasn't been finalized yet.

"We have attempted to make a deal," Cable said. "There are some issues still between him and the Patriots that are being worked out. Hoping that that will get resolved as quickly as possible. We know that the player wants to be here but we have really no control over those issues. So that's really all I'm going to talk about it for now."

According to White, Cable wouldn't specify what needs to be resolved. However, Patriots spokesman Stacey James is unaware of any issues around the deal, per the Associated Press.

It seems as though it's business as usual in Oakland.

The Raiders open the season on Monday, September 14th against the San Diego Chargers in the second of two opening-week Monday Night games. Seymour's former (current) team will host the Bills in the first Monday Night game.

September 06, 2009

Patriots trade Seymour to Raiders for first-rounder

Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, the Patriots have traded defensive lineman Richard Seymour to the Oakland Raiders for a first-round pick in 2011.

The five-time Pro Bowler and three-time Super Bowl champion will turn 30 years old in one month.

Seymour, the Patriots' first-round pick in 2001, is under contract through the 2010 season.

Unfortunately for Seymour, he goes from what's arguably the best-run franchise to what's arguably the worst-run franchise.

September 05, 2009

Raiders cut Jeff Garcia, where next?


Among the cuts made to reduce their roster to 53 players, the Oakland Raiders have released quarterback Jeff Garcia, who was signed in the off-season to back-up JaMarcus Russell.

In a conference call, Raiders coach Tom Cable was asked why the team cut Garcia.

Here's what Cable said (via Paul Gutierrez of the Sacramento Bee): "I think first and foremost, we are committed to JaMarcus Russell as our starter. I think that when you look at the preseason, and practices in camp, and the games, that we played, all four of the games, three of the four which Bruce and Charlie played, and they probably were the most productive in terms of scoring points and moving the football team. I think that the fact that whether or not he's comfortable in his role as a backup, it is what it is. JaMarcus is our guy and those other two guys did a great job in terms of performing on game night."

Garcia was brought in to mentor and push Russell, the top overall draft pick in 2007, but Garcia wanted to compete for the starting job. But there was no way that the Raiders (and specifically Al Davis) would have allowed to Garcia to win the starting job.

One place that comes to mind as a potential landing spot for Garcia is New England, who only have two quarterbacks -- Tom Brady and undrafted rookie Brian Hoyle -- on their roster.

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]

September 04, 2009

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.

August 31, 2009

Pats release QB Kevin O'Connell

According to Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe, the Patriots have waived back-up quarterback Kevin O'Connell.

The Patriots now have three quarterbacks on the roster -- Tom Brady, Andrew Walter and rookie Brian Hoyer.

O'Connell, the Patriots' third-round pick in 2008, was expected to back up Brady.

It's possible that the Chiefs could claim O'Connell off of waivers and if they do (as pointed out by Pro Football Talk), the Chiefs would have all three non-injured QBs from last year's Patriots' roster -- Matt Cassel, Kevin O'Connell and Matt Gutierrez.

In Friday's pre-season game, O'Connell completed almost as many passes to Redskins' defenders (two) as he did to Patriots' receivers (three) in his ten pass attempts.

August 29, 2009

Brady hurts shoulder, Ochocinco tweets "he's fine"

After a hit by Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady suffered a sore shoulder and didn't play in the second half of last night's pre-season game at FedEx Field.

“Just any time you see your quarterback get hit you’re concerned or any of your guys on the ground,’’ said [TE Chris] Baker, who helped Brady up. “It was that. He’s a tough guy. I’ve seen him take hits before and obviously he gets back up. It was just one of those things where it was, ‘Let me go get him up and let’s get off the field.’’’


As Josh Q. Public points out, Chad "Esteban" Ochocinco has provided a status update for Brady, via his Twitter account: "Just got a call back from Tom Brady, says he's fine and there's nothing to worry about."

Before getting hit (and hurt), Brady completed 12 of 19 passes for 150 yards and two scores (both to Randy Moss).

August 27, 2009

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.

August 16, 2009

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

Eagles-Vikings

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.

June 28, 2009

The London Patriots?



Per Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe, Patriots "owner Robert Kraft told Britain’s The Times last week that he believes an NFL team based in London would be a success and that he’d be interested in an ownership stake through his sons if possible."

London has hosted a regular-season NFL game for the past few years and the NFL is considering a second game there. Moreover, there are rumors that London will submit a bid to host the Super Bowl as early as the 2014 Super Bowl.

I suppose a road game in [Olde] England (compared to a road game in San Diego) is just as close for an east coast team like New England.

But if there were an NFL franchise in London, that franchise would have to travel a minimum of six hours (for U.S. east coast games) for eight regular-season away games plus two pre-season away games. I suppose that disadvantage would be somewhat counterbalanced by their distinct home-field advantage as other teams would have to travel the same distance for London's home games.

That being said, if the NFL were to expand abroad, which I don't think is necessary, it would make more sense to base a team in Canada or Mexico (to a lesser degree). As it is, Buffalo plays some home games in Toronto.

June 12, 2009

Adalius Thomas not "pouring gas" on Rex comments

New York Jets coach Rex Ryan has been involved in a well-publicized verbal spat with Dolphins LB Channing Crowder.

Before that, he said he wasn't in New York to "kiss Bill Belichick's rings."

Earlier in the week, Belichick responded with a simple, "I have a lot of respect for Rex. We’ve always had great battles with the Jets, so I’m sure that will continue. It’s a good rivalry."

While Crowder may get into it with Ryan, Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas, who played for Ryan in Baltimore, won't.

"It’s funny," Thomas said. "It’s something that you normally don’t see in the media in June so it’s something you (reporters) really jump all over and really go from New York to Miami and then come here with it and expect me to pour gas on it. No," he said with a laugh, "no thank you."

So, if you're keeping track at home, Ryan has now made brash comments about the Patriots and the Dolphins.

It has to be only a matter of time before the Bills are included - and, even better, if it's directed at Terrell Owens.

June 04, 2009

Rex Ryan not "here to kiss Bill Belichick's rings"

If you thought the Eric Mangini and Bill Belichick had awkward mid-field handshakes, just wait until September 20th.

That's when the New York Jets host the New England Patriots.

Yesterday on WFAN in New York, Jets coach Rex Ryan said: "I never came here to kiss Bill Belichick's rings. I came to win, let's put it that way. So we'll see what happens. I'm certainly not intimidated by New England or anybody else.''



"Believe me, we are going to attack them, there's no question about that," Ryan said. "You know you gotta take it from them. I got confidence that we will give them everything that they want and maybe a little bit more."

"I'm not an under-sell guy," said Ryan, who will end his first offseason next week with a three-day minicamp. "Under-sell and over-produce? That's fine and dandy if we over-produce by winning the Super Bowl. But if we under-sell just to be average, I'm not here for the security of it."

Ryan is definitely not under-selling.

And when it comes to his players, he was "excited" about Kerry Rhodes' comments that the Jets will have "the best defense in the league."

I have no problem with Ryan's brash comments, but the Jets have to back them up or it could be a brief tenure for Ryan in New York.

May 17, 2009

Maroney had a broken bone in his shoulder

Last year, New England Patriots RB Laurence Maroney played in only three games and was placed on injured reserve on October 20th.

Per Christopher Gasper of the Boston Globe, Maroney says the "issues" relating to his shoulder were a "broken bone."
"I had a broken bone and I was trying to play with it," said Maroney. "It's kind of hard to sit here and play and not tell people what is going on. Everybody is going to think one way because they don't really know what's going on. I dare anybody in this crowd to play football with a broken bone in your shoulder and you tell me how long you're going to last out there.

"Doing it the second game and still trying to play, I feel like it still shows my toughness and my dedication to the team and how much I really want to contribute. The shoulder is great. Not good, great."
Maroney, who says his legs are "feeling fresher than ever," is looking forward to "proving everybody wrong" since there are "a lot of people that are counting me out and doubting me."

In his first two seasons (2006 and 2007), Maroney rushed a combined 360 times for 1,580 yards and 12 touchdowns.

In fantasy football leagues, many owners are likely to shy away from Maroney. And with a crowded backfield (Sammy Morris, newcomer Fred Taylor, Kevin Faulk, BenJarvus Green-Ellis, etc.), Maroney may not get the carries to warrant a high draft pick in 2009.

With a "chip on his shoulder," however, Maroney may be a good pick if he slips far enough.

May 05, 2009

Fred Taylor slowed by sprained wrist

According to the Boston Globe, New England Patriots running back Fred Taylor suffered a sprained wrist while working out in South Florida.

It's uncertain whether or not the injury will keep Taylor from participating at the team's first organized team activities (OTAs), which run May 18-20.

Before the wrist injury, Taylor said that he'd be "joining the team on May 11th," which is a week before the rookie passing camp.

Taylor, who ranks 16th all-time in rushing yards, had earned the nickname "Fragile Freddie" due to his injury history.

April 30, 2009

Patriots get TE Alex Smith for 2010 draft pick

The New England Patriots have acquired TE Alex Smith from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in exchange for an undisclosed draft pick next year.

The Buccaneers acquired Kellen Winslow Jr. from the Cleveland Browns and, in turn, made him the highest-paid tight end in the game. Jerramy Stevens is Winslow's backup.

Smith, who was the Buccaneers third-round pick in 2005, had 21 receptions for 250 yards and three touchdowns in 2008. He only had two receptions for 22 yards after week nine.

April 26, 2009

Patriots trade Ellis Hobbs to Eagles

The New England Patriots have traded cornerback Ellis Hobbs to the Philadelphia Eagles for two fifth-round picks. In turn, the Patriots have traded away those picks (the 137th and 141st picks overall).

In free agency, the Patriots signed cornerbacks Shawn Springs and Leigh Bodden, who played for the Redskins and Lions, respectively, last season.

In the second round, the Patriots drafted UConn cornerback Darius Butler.

The Eagles have been dealing (or, technically, not dealing) with disgruntled cornerback Sheldon Brown, who has requested to be traded. The Eagles say they won't trade Brown, who is under contract until 2012.

Brown and Asante Samuel are the starting corners and Joselio Hanson is the nickelback. Hobbs provides the Eagles with some flexibility.

Hobbs is in the final year of his rookie contract and started all 16 games for the Patriots last season.

April 25, 2009

And with the 26th-overall pick...

The Green Bay Packers, who traded up with New England to pick at 26, have selected USC LB Clay Matthews.

Matthews is a good fit for the 3-4 scheme as an outside linebacker.

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

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.

Get Pats picks (early) via Twitter

The New England Patriots have indicated that they may "tweet" some of their draft picks via Twitter before they are announced at the NFL draft.
"We might even get a few draft picks out via Twitter before they are announced on TV, so any Patriots fans following the draft closely are encouraged to begin following RealPatriots on Twitter," Patriots Vice President of Media Relations Stacey James said in a statement.
In addition to the Patriots, the San Diego Chargers will be announcing their picks in real time via Twitter as well.

The NFL doesn't currently have a policy prohibiting it, but the league may develop one after the draft.
"After the draft, we will review how the teams are announcing their picks and determine whether we need to develop a policy," NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said Friday.
The Patriots have 11 picks in the 2009 NFL draft including four picks in the first (23 overall) and second (34, 47 and 58 overall) rounds.

April 03, 2009

Rodney Harrison to decide by 6/1

Safety Rodney Harrison hasn't decided whether he's going to retire or pursue a career as an NFL analyst on television.
“I know there’s teams that have interest,” he said, “but I haven’t visited with anyone. As I said, I haven’t decided what I’m going to do, that’s the truth. I’ll see what I want to do in the next couple of months. By June 1, I will have made my decision, definitely.”
In the post-season, Harrison did analysis for NFL Network and NBC Sports.

Harrison played for 15 years including the last six with the Patriots. However, he's only played 31 games in the past four seasons.

In his career, Harrison has 1242 tackles, 30.5 sacks and 34 interceptions.

Adalius Thomas upset about possible longer season

The NFL season currently consists of 16 regular-season games and four pre-season games. At the NFL owner's meetings last week, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said that he would like to increase the number of regular-season games and decrease the number of pre-season games.

One NFL player is expressing his opposition to the idea Goodell will likely propose at next month's spring meetings.

New England Patriots LB Adalius Thomas says that NFL players deserve more money if the length of the regular season expands.
"You're telling me that Tom Brady is going to play a regular-season game that would have been a preseason game for $1,200," said Thomas. "You got four preseason games that you're paying people, and you got a set salary from somebody that would make their normal salary. If you made $5 million that year, you're almost making a $1 million a month based off the football season, so instead of getting paid your regular check you're going to get paid [$1,225], and you're telling me I'm getting paid. ...

"You're telling me you're going to add a week, but you'll pay me like preseason; you're going to just stretch the payments over 18 weeks," said Thomas. "No, we're not doing that. You can mark me down on the injured list for two weeks. You can put that in your books. You've done lost your mind."
Of all sports, I believe NFL players are the least overpaid. Their bodies take an enormous toll and they have a relatively low proportion of guaranteed pay compared to other sports.

But with today's unemployment report showing 13 million out of work, it's hard to feel sympathy for the plight of Thomas and other players having their "$1 million a month" diluted by one or two extra games.

March 16, 2009

Panthers deny talks with Patriots on Peppers

Despite reports that the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots have discussed the possibility of sending Julius Peppers to the Patriots for the 34th overall pick in this year's draft, the Panthers say it isn't so.
"By the rules of the [collective bargaining agreement] we cannot and have not had any conversations with other teams about Julius," Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said in a statement. "Under the non-exclusive franchise tag, Julius and his agent, Carl Carey, are within their rights to talk to other teams about a potential contract. However, at this point, we are not aware of any such conversations."
Peppers, who was designated with the franchise tag by the Panthers, can talk to other teams. But the Panthers can't talk to other teams about Peppers until he signs the one-year tender.

Will Julius Peppers be a Patriot in 2009?

Per Vic Carucci of NFL.com, Julius Peppers will likely be playing his home games at Gillette Stadium in 2009. In return, the Carolina Panthers would receive the 34th overall pick in this year's NFL draft from the Patriots.

The Kansas City Chiefs traded that pick to the Patriots in exchange for QB Matt Cassel, who was franchised by the Pats, and LB Mike Vrabel.

The Pats and Panthers expect to complete the transaction between NFL owners' meetings (March 22-25) and the NFL draft (April 25-26).

Peppers, who was franchised by the Panthers, is due to receive $16.68 million guaranteed in 2009. The Pats would convert Peppers to a LB in their 3-4 defense.
Per Carucci's source: "One of the things (the Patriots) are looking at is the fact that, in passing situations, they can have Peppers up front with (Richard) Seymour and (Jarvis) Green. That makes it easier for them to take (nose tackle Vince) Wilfork out of the game in (passing situations) and just play him on running downs."
Peppers, the Panthers 2002 first-round pick, has been inconsistent over the past three seasons, in which he recorded 13.0 sacks in 2006, 2.5 sacks in 2007 (career low) and 14.5 sacks in 2008 (career high). Peppers has 70.5 sacks throughout his seven-year career.

March 15, 2009

Joey Galloway signs with the Pats

The New England Patriots signed free-agent WR Joey Galloway, who was released last month by the Bucs, to a one-year contract. Financial terms of the deal weren't released.

But this move makes a lot of sense for both the Patriots and Galloway. Galloway's agent (Shawn Trell) says that the choice was easy due to the "compelling opportunity to play for a premier owner, organization, team and coach."

With Randy Moss and Wes Welker, Galloway will be the third wide receiver. Despite having only 13 receptions for 138 yards in 9 games in 2008, Galloway had 3 consecutive 1000-yard seasons before last year.
"The ankle injury suffered last year is behind him," Trell said in an email. "The Patriots would not have made this move if they didn't believe the same. The fact is that at the end of last season Joey remained the faster player on the Buccaneers..."
With Moss and Galloway stretching the field and Welker in the slot, Brady just might pick up where he left off in 2007. That is, provided he can stay healthy.

March 12, 2009

Larry Izzo signs with Jets

The New York Jets have signed special teams star Larry Izzo. Before signing with the Jets, Izzo played eight years with New England and five years with the Dolphins.
"I am very excited about the opportunity to play for the Jets and Mr. (Woody) Johnson," Izzo said in a statement. "I'm grateful for the chance to be reunited with Coach Westhoff, who played a key role early in my career, and look forward to playing for Coach Ryan as he brings his passionate, physical style of football to New York.''
Mike Westhoff, the Jets special teams coach, coached Izzo in Miami.

Izzo has 199 career special teams tackles, which is the all-time record. Special teams tackles have been tracked since 1994. Izzo has made the Pro Bowl 3 times (2000, 2002 and 2004).

This is a good move by the Jets as they continue to bolster their defense and special teams under new coach Rex Ryan. This off-season, the Jets have added LB Bart Scott, S/PR Jim Leonhard and now Izzo.

March 05, 2009

Pats trade for Greg Lewis

The New England Patriots lost Jabar Gaffney, their #3 WR last year, to the Denver Broncos.

Yesterday the Pats hosted free-agent WR Joey Galloway, who had an injury-shortened season (9 games) in 2008. However, Galloway recorded 1000-yard seasons in each of the previous 3 seasons with the Buccaneers.

Today, the Patriots have sent an undisclosed draft pick to the Philadelphia Eagles. In return, they get WR Greg Lewis from the Eagles.

Lewis has been in the league for 6 seasons and has 127 career receptions for 1699 yards and 7 TDs.

March 01, 2009

Patriots re-sign safety James Sanders

The New England Patriots have re-signed safety James Sanders to a 3-year contract. He reportedly turn down more money elsewhere to stay in New England.
"It gives him a chance to grow and become a playmaker," [Sanders' agent Steve] Feldman said. "He stays in the same system with a championship team. They know him. He knows them. It was the right fit."
Sanders, projected to start alongside safety Brandon Merriweather, had 66 tackles and 1 interception in 2008. Sanders was drafted by the Patriots in the 4th-round of the 2005 NFL draft.

February 28, 2009

Matt Cassel traded to Chiefs

The NFL Network is reporting that the Patriots and Chiefs have agreed on a trade to send QB Matt Cassel, who was franchised by the New England, to Kansas City.

The compensation that the Pats will receive hasn't been communicated, but Adam Schefter of NFL Network speculates that it might be a 2nd-rounder this year and a conditional pick next year.

This confirms that Tom Brady is indeed on track (or ahead of schedule) on his rehab. Otherwise, the Pats wouldn't have pulled the trigger this soon. However, the Pats will likely seek a veteran QB to back up Brady.

Also, many were projecting that the Chiefs would select a QB with the #3 overall pick. Now they can focus on a different position like offensive tackle, this year's draft is deep in tackles, or draft someone like Aaron Curry if the Lions or Rams don't draft him.

The Chiefs brought in Mike Vrabel yesterday so now they import leaders on both sides of the ball from the Patriots system to provide leadership.

February 27, 2009

Chiefs trade for Mike Vrabel

The New England Patriots traded LB Mike Vrabel to the Kansas City Chiefs. In return, the Patriots will receive an undisclosed draft pick.

Vrabel spent the past 8 years of his 12 NFL seasons with the Patriots. He played his first 4 years with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Chiefs GM Scott Pioli joined the Patriots the year before Vrabel did.

Vrabel had a drop-off in production from 2007, his only Pro Bowl season, to 2008. However, he's still a solid player despite his age (33). Vrabel had 12.5 sacks in 2007, but only 4 sacks along with 62 tackles last year.

This move gives Pioli and the Chiefs some veteran leadership from the Patriots way of doing things. The Chiefs are notorious for their collection of whiners in the locker room including some of their most talented players - Larry Johnson, Tony Gonzalez, Brian Waters, etc.

Patriots, Baker agree to deal

The New England Patriots are agreed on a deal with TE Chris Baker, who was recently cut by the New York Jets.

The Patriots currently have 4 other TEs on their roster, but the contracts for Ben Watson and David Thomas expire after the upcoming season.

Last year, Baker had 21 receptions for 194 yards. Rookie Dustin Keller came on strong in the second half of 2008, which made Baker expendable.

CB Leigh Bodden visiting Patriots today

Free-agent CB Leigh Bodden, who was released by the Detroit Lions, will be in Foxboro to visit with the New England Patriots today.

Bodden had 6 interceptions with the Browns in 2007, but only had 1 interception with the Lions in 2008.

As the Boston Herald points out, Bodden was the guy that Chad "Ocho Cinco" Johnson called the "toughest cover guy in the league" when he had his checklist of corners he would face in 2005.

The top returning CBs on the Pats' roster are Ellis Hobbs, Terrence Wheatley and Jonathan Wilhite.

Fred Taylor to sign with Patriots?

Per Shalise Manza Young of The Providence Journal, Fred Taylor is going to sign with the New England Patriots.

Taylor, who was released by the Jaguars this off-season, visited with the Bills and Patriots in back-to-back days. According to the report, both teams made offers to Taylor.

Taylor is one of the most underrated RBs in the NFL history. He made his first Pro Bowl last year despite rushing for 11,271 career rushing yards, which ranks him 16th on the all-time rushing list.

Signing with the Patriots would allow Taylor to play for the team that is the pre-season favorite to win the Super Bowl. And the Pats are likely to be in the hunt for the remainder of Taylor's playing career.

February 18, 2009

Brock Williams pawned Super Bowl ring

Brock Williams, who earned a Super Bowl ring with the Patriots in 2002, pawned his ring in Las Vegas for $2000.
“He was offered $15,000 to sell it, but he said no. He just borrowed some money and never came back,” said Rick Harrison, owner of the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop on the Las Vegas Strip.
Harrison took ownership of the ring when Williams failed to come back for it after 120 days. There is a sign at the pawn shop that reads...“No, you can’t touch it or wear it.”

Williams is currently living in California on a disability retirement from the NFL.

Tom Brady: "I'm feeling great"

New England Patriots QB Tom Brady had a conversation with Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe. While he admitted to initially having a setback in his rehab, but says he's on track now.
“I think initially I said there was [a setback],” Brady said. “Since then, there has been nothing. Just working hard on my rehab. I’m feeling great. I’m feeling really good. Everything is progressing just as I expected."
Reiss asked if he expects to be ready for camp.
“You know, Bill never likes us to forecast anything. It’s like me asking you guys ‘are you going to be doing your job in eight months?’ Yeah, you certainly think so. There is no reason why I shouldn’t,” he said.
Considering the secretive nature of the organization, I'm not sure we should believe anything that Brady or Belichick or any Patriot says. There is no obligation for him to be honest and disclose anything/everything.

What the franchise does with the $15-million, franchised, back-up QB Matt Cassel will tell us everything. If they trade him, Brady is doing fine. If they don't trade him, then the Patriots are probably worried about Brady being ready to go.

Jets to bring in Kelley Washington for visit

The New England Patriots made two roster cuts: WR Kelley Washington and OL Billy Yates.

Both players were entering the final years of their contracts and the cuts save the Patriots $1.7 million on the 2009 salary cap.

According to NFL Network's Adam Shefter, the New York Jets have wasted no time to bring in Washington for a visit.

Washington had 1 reception for 3 yards in 2008 and made 9 special teams tackles.

February 08, 2009

Matt Cassel accepts franchise tag

In theory, New England Patriots QB Matt Cassel, who was franchised by the Pats, could have negotiated a deal with another team.

However, the cost of such a deal is the team that would sign him away would have to compensate the Patriots with 2 first-round picks. As the Boston Herald points out, no team has done that since 1993 (when the franchise tag rule started).

Cassel officially accepted the Patriots franchise tag offer and will earn $14.65 million in 2009.

If Tom Brady continues to remain on track for the 2009 opener, there is a good chance that the Patriots trade Cassel.

February 05, 2009

Terry Glenn arrested last month

Terry Glenn was arrested at an Extended Stay Deluxe Hotel in Irving on January 25th and charged with public intoxication and possession of marijuana under two ounces.
"I guess he was going up and down the halls," [Irving Police spokesman David] Tull said.
Glenn also had traffic warrants outstanding in Roanoke for speeding, expired registration and two warrants for failure to appear.

Glenn didn't play in 2008 was missed the entire 2007 regular season with a right knee injury. He played in the divisional round playoff game against the Giants.

Glenn has 593 career receptions for 8823 receiving yards and 44 TDs. He never had a 100-reception season although Glenn had four 1000-yard seasons.

Pats tag Cassel (officially)

Today is the first day that NFL franchises can place the franchise tag on a player. And as was widely-expected, the Patriots placed the tag on QB Matt Cassel today.

Cassel will earn the average of the top 5 QB salaries ($14.65 million) and more than starter and future Hall-of-Famer Tom Brady.
"Matt has been a pleasure to coach his entire career and last season in particular, when his years of hard work and commitment resulted in a most impressive performance," said Belichick. "We look forward to working with Matt again in 2009."
Cassel, who becomes the first offensive player to be franchised by the Patriots, provides insurance for the Patriots if Brady, whose rehab is reportedly on track, is not ready to start week 1.

Otherwise, they can trade Cassel if Brady's rehab continues to go well.

February 02, 2009

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.

January 28, 2009

Tom Brady on track for '09 opener

According to the Boston Globe, New England Patriots QB Tom Brady is on track to start the 2009 opener. Of course, he started the opener in 2008 when he tore both his ACL and MCL.

There are no additional surgeries planned for Brady. Just rehab and more rehab.
"Based on anybody else doing an ACL rehab, he's going right along. He had a shaky start, but he's caught up," said the source.
The Patriots are expected to franchise back-up Matt Cassell, who threw for 3693 yards and 21 TDs last year.

If Brady continues to make the expected progress, I wouldn't be surprised if the Patriots trade Cassel. As Steve Mariucci says, he's worth a "first and something else."

Has Tom Brady "gone soft"?

I just read a piece Dan Shaughnessy of the Boston Globe wrote about Tom Brady being fed by Giselle Bunchen being the "last straw." It was perhaps one of the most trivial articles I've ever read.

So why am I writing about it and linking to it? Misery loves company, right?

Hmmm...being fed by a Brazilian Victoria's Secret supermodel in Mexico? You're right Dan - what a "girly-man"!

Shaughnessy is either being a little tongue-in-cheek with the article, which is fine but the article was way too long (831 words). Or worse, he was serious and he just wasted 5 minutes of my life.

So, if you'd like to waste 5 minutes (or 6 because you read this) of your life that you'll never get back, check out the Globe.

Floyd Reese to join Patriots

Floyd Reese, former Tennessee Titans GM and ESPN analyst, will join the New England Patriots as a senior football advisor.
"If you look at professional sports franchises over the last 10 or 12 years and you say ‘name the top five,’ the New England Patriots are going to be there someplace. If you look at ownership of organizations and franchises and you say ‘okay, name the top five owners,’ Mr. Kraft and his family are going to be in there someplace. And if you look at the top coaches in any sport, Bill Belichick will be someplace near the top. I just want to say it’s a real honor and privilege for me to be a part of it," [Reese] said.
Also, Nick Caserio, director of player personnel, will manage the personnel department's day-to-day operations.
"...In Nick and Floyd, we have two outstanding men who each bring a wealth of knowledge and flexibility to this organization. I look forward to joining with both of them and working toward the common goal of our team's improvement and success,” Belichick said.
Reese began his coaching career in 1971 as an assistant at UCLA, where he also played. In 1990, he transitioned from the Houston Oilers LBs coach to their Assistant General Manager.

January 27, 2009

Matt Cassel: "First and something else"

NFL Network and former head coach Steve Mariucci said that Patriots QB Matt Cassel is worth more than a first-round pick.
“Would you take a Mark Sanchez or a [Matthew] Stafford out of college in the first round, or would you take a Matt Cassel, who has won big games, is 11-5 already, and has experience under his belt for a first-rounder? You’d take Matt Cassel, I would think,” Mariucci said.

“He’s a healthy young guy who has experience. So yeah, he’s a first-round [pick] easy. More than a first round. First and something else.”
The Patriots are likely to franchise Cassel this off-season and spend roughly $29 million on Tom Brady and a franchised Cassel.

January 25, 2009

TE Coach Pete Mangurian leaving Patriots

This off-season the New England Patriots have lost offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who became the Broncos head coach, special teams coach Brad Seely and secondary coach Dom Capers, who became Packers defensive coordinator.

Add TE coach Pete Mangurian to the list of departed Patriots coaches.

Mangurian is expected to coach with the Bucs and Raheem Morris, who replaced Jon Gruden as head coach. Mangurian was head coach of Cornell when Morris was his DB coach in 1999.

January 13, 2009

Chiefs hire Scott Pioli

Today the Kansas City Chiefs announced that they have hired Scott Pioli, who was the Patriots VP of player personnel.
"We are very excited to welcome Scott to the Chiefs," team chairman Clark Hunt said. "With his proven track record of success, Scott is the finest player personnel executive in the NFL, and we look forward to his leadership in building a championship organization."
In his 9 seasons with the Patriots, they have won 3 Super Bowls in 4 appearances. (See past Super Bowl results.)

Pioli's job to turnaround the Chiefs got started a year before arriving. Carl Peterson, who resigned a month ago, had a good draft in 2008. Arguably, they had the best draft of any team. (See Chiefs draft history.)

Pioli and the Chiefs have the 3rd overall pick, but his first pick is likely to be a new coach. Chances are that Pioli, as most new front office guys, will want to bring in his own guy.

January 11, 2009

Broncos to name Josh McDaniels head coach?

According to ESPN's Chris Mortensen, the Denver Broncos will announce the selection of Josh McDaniels, the Patriots offensive coordinator, as their new head coach.

The report indicates that McDaniels was one of 2 finalists for the job. Leslie Frazier, the Vikings defensive coordinator, was the other.

Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh thought the Broncos should have hired Frazier and I agree with Harbaugh.
“He’s a tremendous X’s-and-O’s coach,” Harbaugh told the Post. “Players will respect him. He’s a great organizer, a motivator. He’s just a real good man.”
Instead the Broncos will go with an offensive-minded coach like Mike Shanahan, who was unexpectedly fired on December 30th. But unlike Shanahan, it will be someone who lacks head coaching experience.

This move surprises me, as the Broncos' offense, which isn't perfect, wasn't the team's weakness. And considering the number of injuries to the team's RBs this season, I think the Broncos offense over-achieved. They were ranked 3rd (of 32) in passing offense (279.4 ypg) and 12th in rushing offense (116.4 ypg).

The defense, on the other hand, ranked 30th in scoring defense (28 ppg) behind only the Rams and Lions, who are also looking for coaches and combined for 2 wins this season. The Broncos were 29th in yardage allowed (374.6 ypg).

January 04, 2009

Patriots to franchise Matt Cassel

Once Tom Brady injured his knee in week 1, many believed at the time that the New England Patriots wouldn't make the playoffs. And they were right.

But it wasn't because of lack of quality QB play. Matt Cassel, who hadn't started a game since high school, played much better than one would have expected.

Cassel posted a QB Rating of 89.4, completed 63.4% of his passes and threw for 3693 yards. He threw 21 TDs to only 11 INTs.

Reports are that the Patriots are going to franchise Cassel, which means he'll earn $14 million in 2009 or $1 million less than Brady.

Although the Patriots are tying up $29 million in QB salaries, questions remain about Brady's status for the 2009 season. While it's possible that Brady's rehab is going just fine, I wouldn't expect full disclosures from the Patriots on Brady's injury/rehab 9 months before their next meaningful game.

But if Brady's rehab isn't on track, it makes sense to have Cassel as insurance. If it is on track, they have more control over what they would get in return when/if he leaves town.

January 01, 2009

Jerod Mayo wins Defensive Rookie of the Year

A day after Matt Ryan won the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, Jerrod Mayo was named as the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Mayo, who received 49 of 50 votes for the award, led the New England Patriots in tackles with 128. Brandon Meriweather was 2nd on the team in tackles with 83.
"He's smart, makes a lot of defensive adjustments and calls for us there. He runs well. He's tough. He's a good all-around football player, very mature, very professional. For a rookie, he's probably as professional as anybody I've coached."
The Patriots suffered several key losses to their defense (Adalius Thomas, Rodney Harrison, etc.) and re-signed retired players (Junior Seau, Rosevelt Colvin, etc.). But Mayo stepped up and has become a leader for this 11-5 team. Mayo credits LBs Tedy Bruschi and Mike Vrabel for that.
"Jerod's taken his leadership up," Vrabel said. "I think he came in as a rookie and obviously learned the playbook and learned everything in and out and physically can go out there and make any play that we needed him to."
Many questioned the Patriots taking Mayo with the 10th overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. But as often happens, Belichick and Pioli have seen something that others failed to see.

Last year's winner was 49ers Patrick Willis. (See past winners)

December 30, 2008

Browns interview Mangini Tuesday, Pioli Wednesday

The New York Jets fired Eric Mangini yesterday. While the Jets are to meet with Cowher, the Associated Press reports that Mangini had an interview today with Cleveland Browns owner Randy Lerner.

Bill Cowher asked to be removed from a list of candidates for the Browns job Saturday.
"He [Cowher] wanted to tell me [Lerner] personally that he did not anticipate coaching in 2009. I wouldn't say Bill Cowher was the first choice, but I would say Cowher was the clear, no-questions-asked, guy you wanted to ask where he stood."
Lerner will also interview Scott Pioli, the current VP of player personnel for the Patriots, tomorrow. Scott Pioli is the son-in-law of Bill Parcells.

Lerner has received permission from the Falcons to interview Rich McKay as well, but could be interested in Parcells, who could become available when the Dolphins' sale closes, if Pioli doesn't work out.

If it ends up being Mangini and Pioli in Cleveland, can they put Spygate behind them? Will Romeo Crennel be retained as defensive coordinator?

December 28, 2008

Bills-Pats game to start on time

The goal posts were crooked at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park, NY this morning. However, reports are that the Bill-Patriots game won't be delayed.

Marshawn Lynch is inactive for the Patriots game. Lynch is one of 12 RBs to have rushed for 1,000 yards so far this season.

With strong winds, I wouldn't expect Lee Evans to be able to work downfield with his tremendous speed. The Pats, on the other hand, should be able to work the underneath stuff with Wes "The Slot Machine" Welker and set up Randy Moss for some WR screens.

The Patriots should beat the Bills today and then they'll be rooting for the Jets whatever favors the Patriots as Bill Belichick says.

December 26, 2008

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" »

December 18, 2008

Anquan Boldin may not play vs Patriots

Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt has indicated that WR Anquan Boldin and RB JJ Arrington might not play in New England.
"I think that both these guys want to play and if they're ready to go, they'll play," Whisenhunt said. "But I think also, you have to be smart with that situation.

"If this was a game that for us meant to get into the playoffs, it would be a completely different scenario."
The Cardinals have won the NFC West (as I predicted they would) with 2 games to go before their first-round playoff matchup since they have no shot at a first-round bye.

Boldin started the season red hot. In his first 9 games of the season, he had 11 TDs. In fact, 10 of those 11 TDs came in a 6-game span.

In the past 3 weeks, Boldin has no TDs and hasn't had more than 63 receiving yards.

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" »

December 05, 2008

Patriots re-sign Junior Seau

The Patriots have been decimated with injuries. On Wednesday, the Patriots re-signed Rosevelt Colvin.

Two days later, Junior Seau is coming out of retirement (again). Re-signing two smart players familiar with the system should allow those players to get up to speed quickly and fill the void created by injuries.
"What it took was a coach that you respect made a call, come out and help guys that you have a lot of love for," Seau said. "Obviously, there's a lot of history here with us and it wasn't a hard decision. You just care for the guys in this locker room and you care for the coach and organization and that's the only reason I'm here."

"He's ready to play football," Belichick said. "He's a football player. You look football player up in the dictionary, Junior Seau, Troy Brown, those are the guys. They just define it in every sense of the word."
Seau has nearly 1500 career tackles in his 257-game career. Last season, he had 74 tackles and 3 interceptions.

December 03, 2008

Patriots re-sign Rosevelt Colvin

Today the New England Patriots re-signed LB Rosevelt Colvin.
"I didn't necessarily have something to prove," he said Wednesday after signing with the Patriots. "It wasn't like I was scratching walls trying to get back in the game. (But) it's definitely a benefit and a plus to have an opportunity."
With Mike Vrabel the only healthy OLB, Colvin should get up to speed quickly.
"We got depleted at outside linebacker," coach Bill Belichick said. "Rosie has been here before. He certainly knows what we are doing and knows the defense. There is a much smaller learning curve with him."
The 31-year old LB has 354 career tackles and 52.5 career sacks. He last played in week 12 of the 2007 season with the Patriots.

December 02, 2008

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" »

December 01, 2008

Teams announced for UK game in 2009

Today the NFL announced that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the New England Patriots will face each other at Wembley Stadium in London on October 25, 2009. The Bucs will be the "home" team in the matchup.
"We have had a lot of memorable moments in recent years," Patriots chairman Robert Kraft said. "I think it is fitting that New England's first game to be played outside of North America will be in England. I know that the UK is home to some of our most passionate Patriots fans and we look forward to the experience."
The Arizona Cardinals played the San Francisco 49ers in Mexico City in what was the first-ever NFL regular-season game played outside of the U.S. The Cardinals beat the 49ers in front of the largest croud to ever see an NFL game (103,467) in 2005.

Since then, 2 games have been played at Wembley Stadium in London. The New York Giants beat the Miami Dolphins last year and the New Orleans Saints beat the San Diego Chargers this year.

November 26, 2008

Willie Parker - Questionable against Patriots

Willie Parker, swelling in his knee, is questionable for Sunday's game at New England.

Parker has played in 6 games this season and has missed 5 games. If Parker doesn't play Sunday, Mewelde Moore will start in his place.

On the season, Parker has 485 yards and 4 TDs on 126 carries. Moore has 432 yards and 5 TDs on 109 carries.

The Steelers are currently 8-3 and 1 game ahead of the Baltimore Ravens, who are in Cincinnati this weekend.

November 24, 2008

Matt Light and Channing Crowder fight to be reviewed by NFL

Although I use the term loosely, the "fight" yesterday between Matt Light and Channing Crowder is going to be reviewed by the NFL. The fight happened on a Patriots field-goal. It was enough to get both players ejected from the game and may lead to additional discipline.
"I had no idea what was going on," Gostkowski said. "I was just worried about them falling on my leg. I didn't want to get hurt from something like that."
I understand that tempers flare and adrenaline is flowing during the heat of battle. But you got to maintain your composure.
"These guys are competitors," Sparano said. "At the same time, there's a right and a wrong way to do things. We have a standard here right now that we're trying to put in place. And for 10 solid games we've done that. Yesterday, we kind of got off the path a little bit for about eight minutes and that's not good enough. It has to be addressed."
The Patriots are now 1 game behind the Jets and the Dolphins are tied with the Bills and 2 games back.

November 18, 2008

Joey Porter vs Patriots Round 2

Both the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins trail the New York Jets by 1 game in the tight AFC East race and have a one game lead over the Buffalo Bills. This weekend, the Dolphins will host the Patriots.
"My message to the players is that if you walk through the door on Wednesday and your heart's not racing a million miles an hour, then you don't have a pulse," Sparano said, according to AP. "This is why we do what we do. We put ourselves in position to have a big game at home at the end of November. That's where we are. That being said, I don't think too much has to be said this week."
Maybe so Tony, but Joey Porter will do some talking. Here's what he said today:
"We don't like them," Porter said, according to The Associated Press. "They don't like us."

"They let us know how they feel about us," Porter said, according to AP. "Then they start punting over our heads -- like, you want the whole 100-yard field? You don't do that."
Porter did some talking in week 3 (let me clarify since he talks every week...he did some talking to the Pats) and the Dolphins won 31-13.

October 25, 2008

Steven Jackson game-time decision vs Pats

Steven Jackson is a game-time decision for tomorrow's game against the Pats. In the past 2 weeks, the Rams are as hot as any team in football beating the Redskins in a close, hard-fought contest and pounding the Cowboys 34-14.

In the past 3 weeks, Steven Jackson has been playing very well compared to the 1st 3 weeks of the season:

-> 1st 3 games: 50 carries, 159 yards rushing, 0 TDs
-> 2nd 3 games: 71 carries, 349 yards rushing, 4 TDs

With Jackson, I'm not sure the Rams win 3 straight against tough opponents. Without him, I think it's virtually impossible.

[Update: Steven Jackson is inactive for today's game.]

October 20, 2008

Laurence "Mr. Doubtful" Maroney out for season

Today, the Patriots placed Laurence Maroney on Injured Reserve ending his season. He has only rushed for 93 yards on 28 carries this season.

Sammy Morris will likely get the bulk of the carries for the remainder of the season. Through the first 3 quarters of tonight's game, Morris has delivered rushing for 138 yards.

The Patriots have been middle of the pack in rushing (17th in league) this year. Their passing attack ranks 24th in the league (186.2 ypg).

September 17, 2008

Joey Porter says Cassel "shouldn't be that hard"

Porter doesn't learn from his own mistakes. Remember last year after starting 0-3, Porter said this "...Write it how you want to write it: we will win on Sunday.''

How did that work out? Raiders 35, Dolphins 17
"I just know he's not a Tom Brady," Porter said. "So if it's not Tom Brady, it shouldn't be that hard." (insert your own joke here)

Yet Porter said "It'll be good to go out there and get our first victory."

"You treat him like you treat a backup," Porter said. "How do you prepare for a backup? He don't get that many snaps, right? So you throw the kitchen sink at him. That's what we're going to do."

"He's a guy we'll prepare for, but that was his first start since high school," Porter said. "So you can take all the reps you want to. This is a totally different game, a totally different league. He's only had one start in the NFL. Take that for what it's worth. He won it, but if you compare him to Brady, there's no comparison.
Yes Joey, Cassel has only started 1 game in his career and won 1 game. The Dolphins have played 18 games since Porter has been in Miami and won 1 game.

September 07, 2008

Brady done for year? How 'bout the Pats?

Today the New England Patriots beat the Kansas City Chiefs 17-10 for their 19th consecutive regular-season victory, which broke the record. Their own record. However, Tom Brady was hit in the knee, left the field and never returned. Early reports indicate Brady may be out for the year although he has an MRI scheduled for Monday.

In my AFC East preview, I predicted a 12-4 finish for the Patriots with the New York Jets at 9-7 and the Buffalo Bills at 8-8. The Jets and the Bills are serious playoff contenders, but I thought they would be contending for the 6th wildcard seed.

Matt Cassel played well in Tom Brady's absence. But he hasn't started a football game since he was in high school after backing up Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart at USC and Tom Brady in New England.

Although it's not a knock on Cassel, he's no Tom Brady - the league's reigning MVP. Granted Brady seemed to have come out of nowhere to replace Drew Bledsoe, but it seems unrealistic to think the same thing can happen again. So, let's say that Tom Brady is worth 2 of the Patriots 12 wins. That reduces their win total to 10.

After today's games, the Bills especially and the Jets too seem capable of winning 10 games. I still think the Patriots will manage to win the AFC East (even without Brady), but it's no longer a lock like I thought it was 12 hours ago.

September 01, 2008

AFC East Preview

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Prediction: 12-4 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: While the Patriots can't improve upon (and won't repeat) last year's 16-0 performance, Belichick & Co. are certainly more concerned with improving upon their 0-1 performance in the Super Bowl. Tom Brady and Randy Moss will have strong years in 2008 again, but I expect both to retreat from the record-setting levels they attained last year. The Giants showed the rest of this copy-cat league the blueprint for success against the Patriots: rush the passer. Last year, Tom Brady threw the 2nd most passes in the NFL behind Drew Brees. This season I expect the Patriots to establish a stronger running attack. Their offense will still put up points, but their biggest question mark is their secondary? The Jets and Bills will be better in 2008 and the Dolphins will be...well, the Dolphins, but the AFC East is still clearly the Patriots division.

Interesting Stat/Fact: The Patriots could win 100 games in the decade by week 10 (their 9th game of season). They have the most victories this decade with 91.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 99-157 (.387)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (4): at San Diego, at Indianapolis, vs Pittsburgh, at Seattle

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 38 wins (12.7 per season)


NEW YORK JETS
Prediction: 9-7 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: The Jets did a lot in the off-season to improve their team, most notably add the NFL's all-time passing leader and last year's MVP runner-up Brett Favre. However, before the last-minute trade, the Jets improved themselves by adding projected starters All-Pro Alan Faneca and Damien Woody to the offensive line as well as Calvin Pace to LB corps. In the NFL Draft, the Jets added 2 athletic freaks with their first 2 picks: Vernon Gholston from Ohio State and Dustin Keller from Purdue. I expect the additions to the O-Line and the iconic QB will allow Thomas Jones to reverse his downward trend: 2005 (1335 yards, 4.3 ypc, 9 TDs) to 2006 (1210 yards, 4.1 ypc, 6 TDs) to 2007 (1119 yards, 3.6 ypc, 1 TD).

Interesting Stat/Fact: The Jets have alternated between 4 and 10 wins during the past 4 seasons. After winning 4 games last year, they are due for 10 wins this year, right?

Strength of Schedule: 2007 Opponents were 117-139 (.457)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (5): vs New England, at San Diego, at New England, at Tennessee, at Seattle

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 18 wins (6 per season)


BUFFALO BILLS
Prediction: 8-8 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: Donte Whitner has put the pressure on the Buffalo Bills with his guarantee: “Do I expect us to make the playoffs? I’m guaranteeing it.” Although the Bills have the potential to be even better, 8-8 is where I expect them to finish. Leodis McKelvin gives them a playmaker on special teams and in the defensive backfield. James Hardy is a big target that should take off pressure on Lee Evans and be very productive in the redzone. Marshawn Lynch is arguably one of the 10 best RBs in the NFL. At the time we went to press (always wanted to say that), however, Jason Peters, the Bills' Pro Bowl Left Tackle, still hasn't reported and his appearance is not imminent. In the deep AFC, the Bills will just fall short of making the post-season in 2008. But the good news is they are headed in the right direction...and I don't mean Toronto.

Interesting Stat/Fact: The Bills haven't had a 100-reception WR since 2002 when Eric Mould caught 100 passes.

Strength of schedule: 2007 opponents were 115-141 (.449)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (5): vs Seattle, at Jacksonville, vs San Diego, at New England, vs New England

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 19 wins (6.3 per season)


MIAMI DOLPHINS
Prediction: 4-12 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: I have confidence that The Tuna will turn around the mess he inherited in Miami. He helped turn around the Cowboys organization by assembling a team that many consider to have the most talent in the NFL. On the other hand, the Dolphins (i.e., Parcells) traded away their best player (Jason Taylor) for two draft picks (2nd-rounder in 2009 and 6th-rounder in 2010). On offense, their starting QB will be Chad Pennington, who was waived by the Jets. Their RBs will be Ronnie Brown (injury question mark) and Ricky Williams (all-around question mark) although many believe Williams will have a big comeback year (haven't we heard that before?). Their best WR is Ted Ginn Jr., arguably the worst selection based on value in the 2007 NFL Draft, but he should provide more production in his sophomore season. Their O-Line will be better with #1 overall pick Jake Long, but the Dolphins are (at least) a year away before playoff possibilities can be discussed.

Interesting Stat/Fact: Although the 'Fins won only 1 game in 2007, they lost 3 points in 6 different games.

Strength of Schedu