TheDailyBlitz.com: New Orleans Saints Archives

ESPN reports Freeney has torn ligament

Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney has a torn ligament in his right ankle, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Meanwhile the Colts claim that Freeney has a low-ankle sprain -- not a torn ligament.

“He is under the care of our athletic training staff,” [Colts spokesman Craig] Kelley said. “Nothing we have seen changes our diagnosis that he is questionable. He has a third-degree, low basketball sprain.”

Freeney has been in South Florida since Friday to start treatments on his ankle and he has been using a hyperbaric chamber.

"Dwight is one of our best players, we know that," Colts quarterback Peyton Manning said from the Pro Bowl. "But all season long Coach Caldwell has talked about picking up the bayonet. Someone's got to step up. If Dwight were not to be able to go that would be tough, but somebody else will step up and we'll feel confident in whoever that is."

If Freeney can't play, that would likely mean a larger role for Raheem Brock.

“I’m sure he’ll give it a go,’’ a source of Mike Chappell from the Indianapolis Star said of Freeney.

One of the keys for both teams in Super Bowl XLIV will be to apply pressure on the opposing quarterback as both Manning and Drew Brees of New Orleans are as deadly accurate as any quarterback in the league. With completion percentages of 70.6 and 68.8 percent, Brees and Manning finished first and second in the NFL, respectively.

Earlier in the week, Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams said of Manning, “This guy’s got a great clock in his head. The big thing is that he throws the ball so early that we’re going to have to do a good job of finding ways to get to him and when we do get to him we’re going to have to make sure he gets a couple ‘remember me’ shots when we get there ...”

Brees and Manning have been sacked only 20 and 10 times this season, respectively.

Freeney led the Colts and finished third in the league in sacks this season with 13.5 while teammate Robert Mathis finished with 9.5 sacks this year.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

NFC playoff seeding set

While the NFC playoff seedings are now set, the final AFC playoff teams and seeding will be decided by the Jets-Bengals game tonight.

Here are the NFC seeds:

1. New Orleans: Although the Saints entered the weekend with the top seed already clinched, they enter the playoffs with a three-game losing streak after today's loss to the Panthers.

2. Minnesota: The Vikings bounced back in a big way with an old-fashioned beatdown of the New Jersey Giants by the score of 44-7.

3. Dallas: After back-to-back shutouts of the Redskins last week and the Eagles today, the Cowboys clinched the NFC East title and the #3 seed. They will host the Eagles again next week.

4. Arizona: The Cardinals won the NFC West and will face the Packers again next week. This week, the Packers crushed the Cardinals 33-7.

5. Green Bay: Tough to beat a playoff two weeks in a row. But that's what the Packers will try to do.

6. Philadelphia: If Minnesota had lost and Philadelphia had won today, the Eagles would have been the #2 seed. Instead it's two rematches of today's games in the wildcard round.

Click here to discuss the Jets-Bengals game in our NFL Gameday Forum.

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

DeMarcus Ware status unclear for Saturday

Cowboys All-World linebacker DeMarcus Ware, who left Sunday's game on a stretcher, may play Saturday against the Saints according to coach Wade Phillips, per CBSSports.com.

"He's actually a lot better today," coach Wade Phillips said Monday. "He's really in a day-to-day situation as far as where he's going to be, as far as being able to play. He took quite a hit but has really bounced back strong. That's encouraging for him and us."

However, last night ESPN's Adam Schefter tweeted that Ware "won't play vs N.O."

In either case, this is the Cowboys' most important game of the season.

If they win out (including against the Eagles in week 17), they will win the NFC East. At a minimum, they need to have the same record as the Eagles over the next two games to control their own destiny when they face the Eagles (again).

Meanwhile, the Saints look to extend their winning streak to 14 games and this should be the team's biggest test to go 16-0. After the Cowboys, the Sainst play the Bucs and Panthers.

On the season, Ware has nine sacks and 51 tackles.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

The Weekly Blitz - Week 14

Each week I pick three NFL games against the spread (ATS). Here are my week 14 picks:

Chargers +3.5 (over Cowboys): With the obvious exception of the two unbeaten teams (Indianapolis and New Orleans), San Diego has the NFL's longest winning streak (7 games) in the NFL. The Chargers' offense is firing on all cylinders and is averaging 28.5 points per game (third-best in the NFL). During their seven-game winning streak, they have scored 30+ points five times and 20+ points in all seven games. And if you have to bet in a December game involving the Cowboys, which side would you want?

Falcons +10 (over Saints): I don't expect the Falcons to beat the Saints. However, as the Patriots did in their perfect regular-season two years ago, they played a lot of close games down the stretch. We are seeing that with the Saints lately. They needed overtime to beat the Redskins last week as four of their past six games have been decided by 10 points or less. Anything can happen in divisional matchups and giving double-digit points on the road is a little rich for my blood.

Eagles -1 (over Giants): The Giants got a much-needed victory over the Cowboys last week. With a 2-5 record in their past seven games, it would be premature to say that the Giants have turned things around. The Giants have allowed over 20 points in seven consecutive games and the Eagles get playmaker DeSean Jackson back this week. This season, the Giants are 1-6 ATS against opponents with a winning record.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: Top 50 WRs for Week 13

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for top 50 wide receivers for week 13.

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

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

Fantasy Football: Top 40 RBs for Week 13

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for top 40 running backs for week 13.

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

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

Fantasy Football: Top 25 QBs for Week 13

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

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

Here are my top 5 quarterbacks for week 13:

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for top 25 quarterbacks for week 13.

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

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

Fantasy Football - RB Duds for Week 12

Here are three running backs that I would consider benching in week 12:

Knowshon Moreno, Broncos: During the Broncos' four-game losing streak, Moreno has received more than 10 carries only once. That was two weeks ago when he had 18 carries for 97 yards against Washington. If that performance gave you hope that he would see more of a featured role in the running game, last week's distribution should have dashed those hopes. Moreno and Correll Buckhalter saw a 10-to-7 split in carries against the Chargers, which makes banking on a workload worthy of starting Moreno a risky proposition.

Matt Forte, Bears: It's always difficult to run the ball against the Minnesota Vikings. However, Forte has found it difficult to run on nearly everyone. In the six weeks since his bye, Forte has rushed for 41 yards or less five times. The one exception (90 yards) came against the Cleveland Browns, who have allowed the fourth-most rushing yards this season. During that six-game span, Forte has more receiving yards (307) than rushing yards (245), but he has had only two games this season with more than 40 receiving yards.

Pierre Thomas, Saints: Thomas always has the potential to have a big week in the high-powered Saints offense. In his past five games, however, Thomas has 57 carries, which is an average of less than 12 carries per game. Thomas has five rushing touchdowns on the season, but he hasn't scored in his past two games. And only the Pittsburgh Steelers have allowed fewer rushing touchdowns than this week's opponent (New England).

Also see my RB Studs and my top 40 RB rankings for week 12.

More rankings: Top 20 QBs | Top 50 WRs | Top 20 TEs | Top 20 Ks | Top 20 Defenses

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

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.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Bush, Ellis out for Saints against Bucs

When the Saints put their unbeaten record on the line against the one-win Buccaneers, they will do so without running back Reggie Bush and defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis, per Mike Triplett of the New Orleans Times-Picayune.

Neither Bush, who didn't practice this week, nor Ellis, who has missed the past three games, made the trip to Tampa for tomorrow's game.

According to Triplett, Saints coach Sean Payton doesn't expect Bush's injury to linger. Meanwhile Ellis returned to practice on a limited basis this week.

Last week, Bush had his best game of the season when he rushed for 83 yards (on six carries) and scored two touchdowns (one rushing and one receiving).

In the three games that Ellis has missed, the Saints have allowed a league-worst 473 rushing yards, which should bode well for Tampa Bay running back Cadillac Williams.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Football: RB Studs for Week 9

This is the final of three consecutive weeks where six teams have their bye week. Some notable running backs on bye are Minnesota's Adrian Peterson, St. Louis' Steven Jackson and New York's Thomas Jones.

That said, here are three running backs that may be a little under the radar that I expect to have a big week:

Jonathan Stewart, Panthers: It should be fairly obvious that Stewart's running mate, DeAngelo Williams, is a must-start every week. And I expect Williams to have a huge game this week. That said, Stewart should have a strong performance as well. In the past four games, Williams and Stewart have combined for a total of 700 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. During that span, Stewart has scored four times including twice last week against what was the league's top-ranked rush defense. This week, the Panthers face a Saints defense that has lost defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis for several weeks and has allowed six rushing touchdowns in the past three games. Only the Giants have allowed more (7) during that span. As the Panthers enter tomorrow's game in a hostile environment as a 13-point underdog against the unbeaten Saints, look for both Stewart and Williams to get a heavy dose of carries as the Panthers try to keep the Saints' high-powered offense off the field and take the crowd out of the game.

Jamaal Charles, Chiefs: As Larry Johnson finds himself in the team's doghouse again, Jamaal Charles will finally get his shot to be the offense's featured back. In 90 career rushing attempts, Charles is averaging 5.3 yards per carry. This week he faces the Jacksonville Jaguars, who allowed Tennessee's Chris Johnson to run for 228 yards last week. Charles, who was drafted in the third-round last year, should get more opportunities to start beyond this week even though LJ's suspension officially ends after this week. If so, Charles will have several favorable matchups in the weeks ahead including Oakland, San Diego, Buffalo and Cleveland to go along with a favorable matchup this week.

Pierre Thomas, Saints: The Saints can pass it and can run it. Quarterback Drew Brees is one of the league's top three quarterbacks and the Saints are tied for the most passing touchdowns (16) in the league. But what may not be as widely-known is the Saints rank fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game (153.3). Of the three options in New Orleans, Thomas is the best bet (over Reggie Bush and Mike Bell). Thomas is averaging nearly six yards per carry. And running on Carolina is much easier than passing on them. The Panthers' pass defense ranks first in the NFL in yards allowed (160.6 ypg). Meanwhile the Panthers run defense ranks 24th in the league and they've allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to running backs. In addition, no other team has allowed running backs to catch touchdown passes (four) than the Panthers have.

See week 9 consensus rankings for running backs.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 9

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 9:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 9.

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

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

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 9

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 9:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 9

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 9

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 9:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 9

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 9:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 9.

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

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

The Weekly Blitz - Week 9

Every week, I pick three games against the spread (ATS) and I am coming off my second 3-0 week in the past three weeks.

My record on the season is now 14-10, which is solid, but still worse than last season's record of 63.3% correct ATS, which I use as my personal benchmark.

That said, here are my week 9 picks:

Panthers +13 (over Saints): Call me crazy -- after all, I've certainly been called worse -- for picking the Panthers here. But we are seeing a re-emergence of the Panthers' rushing attack and Delhomme, well, hasn't screwed that up allowing the Panthers to win three of their past four. In the past four games, DeAngelo Williams (439 rushing yards) and Jonathan Stewart (261) have combined for 700 rushing yards for an average of 5.0 yards per carry and seven touchdowns. In this series, the road team is not only 13-1 against the spread (ATS) since 2001, but they are 11-4 straight up. While I don't expect the Panthers, who were the # 2 seed in the NFC last year, to pull off a huge upset, I expect them to keep it close -- or, at least, within 13 points.

Eagles -3 (over Cowboys): First, I am rooting to be wrong here (as a Cowboys' fan). But I am realistic. At the beginning of the season, I predicted the Eagles to win the NFC East and for the Cowboys to finish third. But the point spread indicates that these two teams are "even" as the home team generally receives three points for playing at home. Meanwhile, the Eagles pummeled the New York Football Giants last week and are firing on all cylinders. The Cowboys, specifically Tony Romo, have limited the mistakes, which has been key to their three-game winning streak. For the first time in his career, Romo has gone interception-less for three consecutive games. Of all the teams Romo has faced at least twice, the Eagles are the only team to force Romo into more interceptions (eight) than touchdowns thrown (seven). But the Eagles are 16-9 straight up and 16-7 ATS versus the Cowboys since 1996.

Chargers +4.5 (over Giants): Philip Rivers is a better quarterback than Eli Manning. Period. And the difference couldn't be any more apparent in the past four weeks. Although Rivers has faced defenses like Pittsburgh's, Denver's and Oakland's (who has Nnamdi Asomugha, arguably the league's top corner), Rivers hasn't had a passer rating lower than 93.6 in any of his past four games. During that span, Rivers has thrown for 261.3 yards per game, completed 60.5 percent of passes and thrown eight touchdowns and only one interception. Eli, on the other hand, has thrown for 204 ypg, completed 52.1% of passes and has thrown more INTs (6) than TDs (5). I expect the Chargers to take advantage of the Giants' depleted secondary. The Giants may end their three-game skid, but the Chargers will, at a minimum, keep this game close.

For my picks from our other three "handicappers," click here.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 8:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 8.

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

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

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 8:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 8:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 8:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 8.

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

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

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 8

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 8:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 8.

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

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

Bush says Saints can go undefeated

In order to finish with a perfect 16-0 record in an NFL regular season, it's a mathematical requirement to start the season 6-0, which the New Orleans Saints have done.

For that matter, the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos have done so as well.

The difference between the Saints and the other two teams is neither the Colts nor the Broncos have a player on their team predicting they will finish 16-0.

The Saints do.

In an interview with Tim Montemayor of Sporting News Radio, Saints running back Reggie Bush was asked his team's prospects for an undefeated season.

"Of course my first answer is going to be, 'We're going to take it one game at a time, and that's our mentality" (laughs). I have to say it--if I don't say it, then I'm going to get some hell from teammates. But can we go undefeated? Yes, I do think we have the players, the chemistry, we have the heart and dedication, the coaching staff, we have the players and ..."

Even though the Saints play three home games (Falcons, Saints and Cowboys) out of their four remaining games against opponents with a winning record, it's way too early to be discussing an undefeated season.

While an undefeated season is highly unlikely, he made an even more unlikely claim by saying: "... Once I do win an NFL MVP, once we do win a Super Bowl, once I am in the Pro Bowl, it will be that much more special because of all the criticism that I went through."

Despite his outrageous assertions during the interview, Bush is handling his reduced role within the offense with maturity.

"It is an adjustment, because we're all competitors in this locker room, " Bush said, per Jeff Duncan of the New Orleans Times Picayune. "We all want to be the guy. But right now it's just about 'team first, team first, team first.' Everything else is second."

Bush, who was drafted second overall in 2006, is posting career-low averages in rushing yards per game (29.2) and receiving yards per game (24.0) this season.

The Saints host the Falcons for Monday Night Football this week.

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

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 7

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 7:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 7.

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

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

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 7

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 7:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 7

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 7

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 7:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 7

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 7:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 7.

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

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

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 7

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 7:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 7.

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

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

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 6

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 6:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 6.

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

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

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 6

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 6:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 6

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 6

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 6:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 6

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 6:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 6.

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

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

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 6

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 6:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 6.

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

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

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 5

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 5:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 5.

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

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

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 5

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 5:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 5

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 5

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 5:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 5

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 5:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 5.

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

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

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 5

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 5:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 5.

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

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

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 4

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 4:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 4.

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

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

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

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 4

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 4:

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 4

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 4

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 tight ends in week 4:

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 4

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 4:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 4.

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

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

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

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 4

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 4:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 4.

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

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

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

Fantasy Quarterback Rankings - Week 3

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 3:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 3.

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

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

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

Fantasy Running Back Rankings - Week 3

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 3:

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Wide Receiver Rankings - Week 3

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Tight End Rankings - Week 3

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 3:

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Team Defense Rankings - Week 3

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 3:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 3.

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

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

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

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 3

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 3:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 3.

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

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

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

Fantasy Football QB Rankings - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 2:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 2.

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

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

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

Fantasy Football RB Rankings - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 2:

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Football WR Rankings - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Football TE Rankings - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 2:

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Football Team Defense Rankings - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 2:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 2.

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

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

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

Fantasy Football Kickers - Week 2

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 2:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 2.

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

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

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

2009 NFC South Prediction

Here are my picks for the NFC South in 2009:

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Prediction: 10-6 (Saints Schedule | Saints Forum)

The Saints have the league's most explosive offense. Last year, Drew Brees barely missed breaking Dan Marino's single-season passing yards record and became the second quarterback to pass for over 5,000 yards in league history. Brees posted those numbers with his best receiver missing six games of the season, but Marques Colston finished the season strong (31 receptions for 438 yards and four TDs in final five games). They will miss Pierre Thomas in week one, but their week one opponent is Detroit at home. A bigger concern will be Jamaal Brown missing the first six games after having hip surgery. And, of course, Reggie Bush, who has missed 10 games in the past two seasons, is always an injury concern. Last year, their defense ranked 23rd in total defense (339.5 yards per game) and were tied for 26th in scoring defense (24.6 points per game) with Houston. Their defense should improve as they drafted Malcolm Jenkins with their first overall pick, signed safety Darren Sharper in the off-season and named Gregg Williams as their new defensive coordinator.

Strength of Schedule: 2009 opponents had a .570 winning percentage in 2008 (6th)

2008 Playoff Teams on Schedule (7): at Philadelphia, vs NY Giants, at Miami, vs Atlanta, vs Carolina, at Atlanta, at Carolina

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

Continue reading "2009 NFC South Prediction" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Fantasy Kicker Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 kickers in week 1:

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

See full list of top 20 kickers for week 1.

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

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

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

2009 Fantasy Defense Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 team defenses in week 1:

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

See full list of top 20 defenses for week 1.

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

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

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

2009 Fantasy WR Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2009 Fantasy RB Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 running backs in week 1:

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

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

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

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

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

2009 Fantasy QB Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 1:

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

See full list of top 25 quarterbacks for week 1.

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

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

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

2009 Fantasy TE Rankings - Week 1

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

How do we arrive at our rankings?

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

Here are the top 10 quarterbacks in week 1:

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

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

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

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

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

Links to all 32 NFL team final roster cuts

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saints TE Billy Miller lost for year?

Saints tight end Billy Miller will have surgery for a torn Achilles tendon as soon as Monday, which should sideline him for the season, according to the Associated Press.

Miller suffered the injury in the Saints final game of the pre-season against the Miami Dolphins.

"I think it's an opportunity to get completely healthy," Miller said. "I was battling a knee and now I've got this. I'll take care of what needs to be taken care of and come back to help this team win back-to-back Super Bowls."

"The reason you get so emotional is because you see how much he means to the team with all the guys that go up to him and are feeling for him," [QB Drew] Brees said. "Your heart goes out to him. You almost say 'You wish it was me and not him.' If there's one guy that did not deserve that to happen to, that was him. I'm very confident Billy Miller is going to come back and play football again and he's going to play for the Saints."

Miller, who is 32 years old, had 45 receptions for 579 yards and one touchdown last season.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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

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

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

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

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

Full Top 150 Consensus Rankings here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Full Top 150 Consensus Rankings here.

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

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

Jammal Brown has surgery, out for rest of pre-season

Saints left tackle Jammal Brown had surgery performed by Dr. William Myers, a sports hernia specialist in Philadelphia, according to Brian Allee-Walsh of the New Orleans Times-Picayune.

Per Allee-Walsh, Brown will definitely miss the remainder of the pre-season although the Saints are hopeful that Brown will be able to return for the regular-season opener against the Detroit Lions on September 13th.

However, Jim Mashek of the Sun Herald wrote that Brown could miss up to a month of the regular season if surgery was necessary.

Brown, the Saints' first-round pick in 2005, has earned trips to the Pro Bowl in 2006 and 2008.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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

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

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

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

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

Full Top 150 Consensus Rankings here.

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

Derrick Brooks leaves Big Easy without contract

Former Buccaneers linebacker Derrick Brooks, who worked out for the Saints today, left town without a contract, per Jeff Duncan of the New Orleans Times-Picayune.

Brooks, who was released by the Bucs in February, and linebacker Derek Smith worked out in the morning, but weren't at the afternoon practice.

According to Pro Football Talk, the Saints told Brooks that they will contact him after the first pre-season game. In addition to the Saints, the Raiders have shown some interest in Brooks.

In 2002, Brooks was named the league's Defensive Player of the Year. He's made the Pro Bowl 11 times in his career including 2008 and was named First-team All-Pro six times.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Dan Morgan retires (again)

Question: What do Brett Favre and Dan Morgan share in common?

Answer: Both have retired in each of the past two off-seasons.

Dan Morgan, who was attempting a comeback with the Saints, has decided to call it quits again, according to Brian Allee-Walsh of the The Times Picayune.

The news of his retirement was first made public on Twitter by his agent Drew Rosenhaus: "Dan Morgan has informed the Saints that he has decided to retire due continued injuries..."

Morgan retired from the Saints in May 2008 and sat out last year, but he had been working out with the Saints this off-season.

"You don't get surprised by anything anymore,'' [coach Sean] Payton said. "With him, it's a second go-around. But in fairness to him, the difference this time around is that he had gone through the offseason program whereas the first time there was very little invested when he decided to sit out a year.

"In this case, he had been here for pretty much all of the offseason program, seven or eight weeks of lifting and running. So, it's a little bit more of surprise being that he had been here through it all.''

Morgan, the Panthers' first-round in 2001, made the Pro Bowl in 2004. In his seven years in Carolina, Morgan played 59 games (an average of 8.4 games per season) and never played more than 13 games in any season.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Sean Payton's idea to become a movie?

A couple of years ago, New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton came up with an idea for a screenplay that is now being shopped around Hollywood, according to Mike Triplett of the New Orleans Times-Picayune.

"I just wrote about four pages, piddling around with it," said Payton. A professional screen writer finished "The Xbox Kid."

The movie is about a poor kid who has a refurbished Xbox and his play determines the outcome of NFL games.

Per Triplett, the idea came to Payton when his son was playing the Saints upcoming games during the 2006 season, which was Payton's only 10-win season in his three years as Saints head coach.

Can't you just see Payton on the headset with his son asking him to run a reverse flea flicker to see how it turns out before calling it in a real game?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Shockey rushed to (and later released from) hospital

According to TMZ.com, Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey was rushed to the hospital after being found unconscious at the pool of Rehab (pool party at the Hard Rock Cafe) in Las Vegas.

He has since been released from the hospital and sources of TMZ say he was treated for "dehydration."

According to team spokesman Greg Bensel, via Mike Triplett of the New Orleans Times-Picayune, Shockey will be fine.

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

Super Bowl coming to New Orleans in 2013

Today the NFL announced that the 2013 Super Bowl will be played at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans.

"We're just thrilled about what's going on," Saints owner Tom Benson said. "We're getting a new Superdome. Now we're going to get a Super Bowl on top of that. It couldn't be any more exciting than that."

New Orleans beat out Miami, who will host the 2010 Super Bowl, and Glendale (AZ), who hosted the 2009 Super Bowl as the other two finalists.

The 2011 Super Bowl will be played at the new Texas Stadium and the 2012 Super Bowl will be played in Indianapolis.

Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, who was disappointed and believes Miami should be the "permanent" location of the Super Bowl, says South Florida will start working on their bid for the 2014 Super Bowl. Others expected to bid are Tampa and London.

The 2013 home of the Pro Bowl has yet to be determined. It will be played in Miami in 2010 and in Hawaii in 2011 and 2012.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Usama Young, Jammal Brown finish what they started

New Orleans Saints cornerback-turned-safety Usama Young finished playing football for Kent State in 2006.

Young, who was a semester short of graduating when he was drafted in 2007, returned to Kent State this spring to complete his coursework, according to NewOrleansSaints.com.

“It was very important for me to finish what I started,” Young said. “My goal from the very beginning was to graduate and I figured it¹s better late than never. I grew up in a home where both parents were educators and I’ve always believed that without an education I wouldn¹t be where I am on the football field.”

He joins teammate Jammal Brown, who received his degree yesterday from Oklahoma.

Brown promised his mother Zola, who has since passed, that he would become the first member of his family to receive a college degree.

"Just going to college was being a role model in my family," said Brown, now the left tackle for the New Orleans Saints. "Getting a degree, that would be the ultimate."

In 2008, Brown, who was the Saints' first-round pick in 2005, earned his second Pro Bowl appearance in his four NFL seasons.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Saints might pursue Edgerrin James

Per Steve Wyche of NFL.com, the New Orleans Saints are might pursue free-agent RB Edgerrin James, who was released this off-season by the Arizona Cardinals.

“There’s been talk about Edgerrin James, and we’ve spent some time evaluating that prospect,” [Saints GM Mickey] Loomis said. “We’ll continue to do that. We haven’t made any decision or closed any doors on acquiring another running back if we feel that’s something we need to do. We do feel a lot better about what we have in-house than people do outside of our building.”

James was unhappy with his playing time in 2008 although he became the starter again in the Cardinals' post-season run toward the Super Bowl, which they lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The competition in the Saints' backfield would be stronger than what James fought in the Cardinals backfield (Tim Hightower and J.J. Arrington).

With Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush in New Orleans, Edge may not be happy with the amount of playing time he would receive if he ends up in New Orleans.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Do Ealy and Kapanui have uromysitisis?

Two New Orleans Saints players (WR Biren Ealy and TE Kolomona Kapanui) were arrested for obscenity, disturbing the peace and lewd conduct after urinating in an apartment complex parking lot around 12:42 a.m. Sunday morning.

Both players, who were acquired this off-season as free agents, allegedly made lewd comments towards the two women who saw them relieving themselves in the parking lot and called the police on them.

Maybe Ealy and Kapanui have "uromysitisis." ("It's very serious you know.")

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Saints cut Hollis Thomas

The New Orleans Saints have released veteran defensive tackle Hollis Thomas per the New Orleans Times-Picayune.

Earlier this week, the Saints released another defensive tackle (Brian Young).

Thomas, who was due a salary of $1.4 million this year, has seen his production decline in his three years in New Orleans and has battled weight and conditioning issues.

"Hollis Thomas had a significant presence for us both on the defensive line and in the locker room for a number of years," Saints Coach Sean Payton said in a statement. "He has been a big part of what we have accomplished here."

In 30 starts with the Saints, Thomas had 123 tackles and 6.5 sacks.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

And with the 14th-overall pick...

The New Orleans Saints have selected Malcolm Jenkins, DB from Ohio State.

Jenkins would have certainly gone in the top ten if he posted a faster 40 time at the NFL combine. However, he has great size and ball skills.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Saints sign Anthony Waters

The New Orleans Saints have signed free-agent linebacker Anthony Waters.

Waters, who was drafted in the third round by the Chargers in 2007, has played in seven games in the two seasons he spent in San Diego.

He has made three tackles on defense as well as three stops and a fumble recovery on special teams.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Deuce McAllister filed for bankruptcy protection

The New Orleans Saints cut RB Deuce McAllister in the middle of February.

After having arthroscopic knee surgery in the off-season (and reconstructive surgery in 2007), McAllister is rehabbing at Duke University and hopes to find a new employer before the start of training camp.

However, the road has become a little bumpier.

McAllister, who owns two Nissan dealerships in Jackson (MS), filed for bankruptcy protection in March. Nissan says that McAllister owes $7 million to them. Today Nissan took possession of about 20 Nissans that were on McAllister's lot.

"Nissan financing has every right to protect the vehicles," McAllister said. "What they choose to do with them is their business. There's obviously a lot more to the story, but we'll see how this shakes out."

"I'm having to focus a little more time on this than I particularly want to," McAllister said of his dealership. "At some point, I have to step away from this and concentrate on football."

McAllister is the Saints' all-time leader in rushing yards (6096) and rushing touchdowns (49).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Reggie Bush thinks he's now "the man"

New Orleans Saints RB Reggie Bush was in Fort Worth for the Nascar race at Texas Speedway today.

When asked about the team's move to release Deuce McAllister, their all-time leading rusher, Bush took it as his cue that they are looking for him to step up: "they're looking for me to be the guy back there."

Bush finished third on the Saints in rushing (404 yards) last year behind Pierre Thomas (625) and McAllister (418).

With or without McAllister, Bush isn't likely to become the team's workhorse. At the most, I would expect the Saints to split carries between Thomas and Bush.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Double murder in Vilma's Long Island condo

Per The New York Post, police are investigating the shooting and murder of two immigrants that were killed in the Long Island condo of Jonathan Vilma on Thursday night. The bodies of the Liberian immigrant were dumped and later found in Brooklyn and Queens.

Five men entered the complex in an F-150 pick-up truck and one of them claimed to be Vilma's cousin. The individual had the keys and pass codes to enter Vilma's apartment.

Vilma, who has re-signed with the New Orleans Saints, isn't a target of the investigation, but the police want to talk to him about the incident according to the Post.

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

Harrington re-signs with Saints

The New Orleans Saints have re-signed back-up QB Joey Harrington.

Harrington, who was the third pick in the 2002 NFL draft, was the team's third-string QB in 2008 for the remaining 12 games of the season.

The last pass thrown in an NFL game by Harrington was an interception on December 2, 2007.

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

Chargers' Jeromey Clary receives most performance-based pay

The top earner in the NFL's performance-based pay system in 2008 was Jeromey Clary, who received $405,859 in additional compensation.

The performance-based pay system, which was negotiated into the collective bargaining agreement, determines additional compensation based on comparison of salary and playing time. In total, $105 million was awarded to NFL players in additional performance-based pay.

Clary, the Chargers' sixth-round pick in 2006, started all 16 games in 2008 for the Chargers.

After Clary, the next four highest recipients of performance-based pay were Cardinals center Lyle Sendlein ($348,134), Washington Redskins safety Chris Horton ($342,197), New Orleans Saints guard Carl Nicks ($335,033) and Cleveland Browns cornerback Brandon McDonald ($329,803).

In 2009, the performance-based pay is expected to increase by 5% to $3.5 million per team. In 2007, the league paid out $99 million and Willie Colon was the highest earner with $309,534 received.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Saints release Mike McKenzie

The New Orleans Saints have released cornerback Mike McKenzie, who has spent the last five seasons with the Saints.

“Decisions such as these are the hardest to make in this business,” said Executive Vice President/General Manager Mickey Loomis. “Mike has been a standout performer for the Saints both on and off the field during his career with the Saints. We wish him well in his future and thank him for all of his efforts representing the Saints.”

McKenzie landed on Injured Reserve to end each of the past two seasons. He tore his ACL in 2007 and fractured his right patella last year.

Before joining the Saints, McKenzie played five seasons with the Green Bay Packers. During his 10-year career, he has 27 career interceptions.

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

Saints sign Darren Sharper

The New Orleans Saints have signed safety Darren Sharper, who has made four Pro Bowls in his 12 NFL seasons. Terms of the contract haven't been disclosed.

"Darren is an accomplished veteran player that brings a wealth of knowledge and ability to our secondary and has always possessed outstanding instincts and playmaking skills," Saints general manager Mickey Loomis said.

The Saints, who lost safety Josh Bullocks to the Bears, needed to add a safety.

Sharper, who only had 1 interception in 2008, is the active leader in interceptions (54). He has returned eight interceptions (and two fumble recoveries) for touchdowns in his career.

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

Saints add Paul Spicer

The New Orleans Saints and defensive end Paul Spicer have agreed to a one-year deal.

The addition of Spicer provides the Saints with depth in the event that Will Smith and Charles Grant start the season serving four-game suspensions.

Spicer, who has spent the past nine seasons in Jacksonville, had 34 tackles and three sacks in 2008. For his career, Spicer has 259 tackles and 28 sacks (21 in past four years).

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

Saints sign Heath Evans to 2-year contract

The New Orleans Saints have signed FB Heath Evans to a 2-year contract.

“Heath is a versatile and fundamentally sound fullback who can help our offense in a variety of roles, whether it be as a lead blocker, as a runner or receiving option out of the backfield as well as on special teams,” Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis said in a statement. “He has played in a few different offensive systems and has adapted quickly and been a contributor to all of them.”

Signing Evans could mean Mike Karney's days in New Orleans are numbered.

Yesterday, the Saints signed CB Jabari Greer and re-signed WR Devery Henderson to 4-year contracts.

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

Sharper to visit Saints, draws interest from Bears

Free-agent safety Darren Sharper will be in New Orleans tomorrow to visit with the Saints. Sharper shares an agent (Joel Segal) with some other prominent Saints' players, such as Reggie Bush, Marques Colston and Will Smith.

Sharper has played for 12 seasons and hasn't missed any games over the past 3 years. The Saints are also scheduled to meet with Gerald Sensabaugh today and tomorrow.

Last year, Josh Bullocks started at free safety and Roman Harper at strong safety.

Sharper has also drawn interest from the Chicago Bears.

"There's definitely a lot of interest," Sharper said Saturday via cell phone from the Bahamas. "First, they're in the NFC North, which I've grown accustomed to. They have a great defense. And they're on the cusp of getting back to the Super Bowl. It's a great organization. And it's great to draw some interest from them."

It's unclear whether Sharper, who's currently in the Bahamas, has a visit scheduled with the Bears.

Sharper has 54 career interceptions (8 returned to the house) and 9 forced fumbles.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 02:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Saints interested in L.T.?

By now, you'd have to be living under a rock to not be well-versed in the L.T.-A.J. saga.

If you remember, in an effort to get the public even further on his side, L.T. issued a statement on his website indicating his desire to return to the Chargers. In return, Chargers GM A.J. Smith mocked L.T. LB Shawne Merriman chimed in and said "it needs to stop now.” Tomlinson and Smith have since cleared the air personally.

However, it is widely-believed that the Chargers will release the franchise's all-time leading rusher if he doesn't agree to a restructured contract.

If he is released, one team that would be interested is New Orleans per the National Football Post.

The Saints were the most explosive offense in the league last year averaging 28.9 ppg and 410.7 ypg. Drew Brees fell only 15 yards short of Dan Marino's all-time single-season passing record last year.

Although L.T. had his career low of 1,110 rushing yards in 2008, he could bounce back big if (big ifs) he ends up in the Crescent City and he's fully healthy.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Saints re-sign free agent Jon Stinchcomb

The New Orleans Saints entered free agency with 2 unrestricted free agents that started for the team in 2008: Jonathan Vilma and Jon Stinchcomb.

The Saints signed Vilma to a 5-year contract and have agreed to terms with Stinchcomb on a 5-year contract as well.

Terms of Stinchcomb's deal weren't disclosed yet.

“Jon has been a real good player for us since cracking the starting lineup in 2006,” said Loomis. “He has become a respected leader on our team, not only on the field but off the field as well.”

Stinchcomb has started 48 regular-season and 2 playoff games over the past 3 seasons at right tackle.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Saints, Vilma agree to 5-year, $34 million deal

The New Orleans Saints had to wait until today to re-sign LB Jonathan Vilma to a new contract, otherwise it would have cost them a higher draft pick as compensation to the Jets. And, in turn, to the Giants from the Shockey deal.

So the Saints waited until today to sign Vilma to a 5-year contract worth $34 million with $17 million guaranteed.

"We made re-signing Jonathan our top priority, and this is an important first step as we prepare for the 2009 season," General Manager Mickey Loomis said in a statement. "Jonathan proved he could come back from his injury and play at a high level and we expect the same or better from him starting this season."

Vilma led the Saints in tackles with 151 and all 11 defensive starters are returning from last year.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ron Bartell to meet with Saints

CB Ron Bartell, who started for the St. Louis Rams for the past couple of years, will visit with the New Orleans Saints Friday.

Bartell, who is a bigger CB (6'1" and 209 pounds), can defend against bigger WRs.

The Saints get back Tracy Porter, the Saints second-round pick in 2008, and Mike McKenzie from injuries.

Last year, the Saints were in the bottom 10 against the pass (221.7 passing yards allowed per game).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Saints won't use franchise tag

The New Orleans Saints won't use their franchise tag this year. Here are the Saints free agents:

Unrestricted Free Agents (UFAs) Starters: LB Jonathan Vilma and OT Jon Stinchcomb

UFAs Reserves: WR Devery Henderson, DT Antwan Lake, S Josh Bullocks, TE Mark Campbell, RB Aaron Stecker, C Matt Lehr, LB Troy Evans, CB Aaron Glenn and QB Joey Harrington

Restricted Free Agents (RFAs): WR Lance Moore, G Jahri Evans and OT Zach Strief

According to Mike Triplett of The Times-Picayune, the Saints will try to re-sign Vilma, Stinchcomb, Henderson, Harrington and their RFAs.

However, they won't attempt to re-sign Vilma before the free-agency period begins at 12:01 a.m. on February 27th. If they sign him before then, they would owe the Jets a second- instead of third-round draft pick. Since they owe the Giants a second-round pick as part of the Jeremy Shockey deal, they would then owe the Giants a first-round pick since their second-rounder would have gone to the Jets.

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

The Deuce is on the loose

The New Orleans Saints have cut RB Deuce McAllister, who owns team records for rushing yards (6,096) and rushing TDs (49). McAllister is a 2-time Pro Bowler (2002, 2003), but hasn't had a 1000-yard rushing season since 2006.

"Decisions like this are always very difficult ones to make," [Saints GM Mickey] Loomis said. "Deuce has epitomized hard work, leadership and productivity throughout his career and has been a source of great pride for all of us associated with the team."

Considering McAllister's history of knee injuries and that he was due to make $7 million next season, it was expected that the team would part ways with the RB.

However, both McAllister and Loomis have left the possibility of a return (at a reduced rate) open.

"We've left that door ajar," Loomis said, but added, "I wouldn't call it likely."

McAllister, who had arthroscopic knee surgery six weeks ago, also had his 2005 and 2007 seasons cut short due to knee injuries. But he expects to be ready for the start of the season.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Dan Morgan to re-join Saints

New Orleans Saints LB Dan Morgan, who had decided to come out of retirement, has officially been reinstated by the NFL.

“We are looking forward to seeing him compete with our current group of linebackers,” Saints coach Sean Payton told the Sun Herald on Friday.

Morgan will participate with the Saints during their off-season workouts, which begin on March 30th. Also, he will take a physical prior to the team's mandatory mini-camp, which will be in June.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Saints release WR David Patten

Yesterday the New Orleans Saints have released WR David Patten, who would have counted $2.25 million towards the salary cap and earned $3 million in salary/bonuses this year.

"He's a guy that I've worked with two different places now, the (New York) Giants and here, and he brings a lot to the table. It's always a tough move with someone who brings the kind of leadership traits that he does," said Saints coach Sean Payton.

Patten, who was undrafted out of Western Carolina, had 11 receptions for 162 yards and 1 TD in 5 games last year.

Over his career, Patten has 324 receptions and 4715 yards and 24 TDs.

Saints WR Devery Henderson is due to become a free agent on February 27th. The other Saints WRs include Marques Colston, Lance Moore, Robert Meachem and Adrian Arrington.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2010 Super Bowl odds

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

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

Who's the favorite?

The Patriots have 8-1 odds.

Here are the rest:

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

See past Super Bowl winners.

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

Dan Morgan hopes to play in 2009

In the past 3 years, LB Dan Morgan has played a total of 4 games. Since being drafted with the 11th pick in 2001 by the Carolina Panthers, Morgan has never played more than 13 games (2005) in a season.

Morgan missed all of last season after signing with the New Orleans Saints in the off-season.

He has decided to come out of retirement and make a comeback.

"I feel better than I have at any point since before my rookie season in the NFL," Morgan said by telephone from Charlotte, N.C. "I've been working out very hard and I feel great. Last year, I was down in New Orleans and I was coming off shoulder problems and my wife was pregnant with our third child and back in Charlotte. It just didn't feel like the right place or the right time and I made the decision to retire. But the year off has refreshed me and I'm very anxious to get back out there."

Morgan says that despite having had concussions, his weren't that "severe." He feels comfortable returning to the NFL.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Most money for free agency

Looking at teams with the most money to spend in the off-season, the top 4 teams are either (a) in the Super Bowl or (b) have a new coach and/or new GM.

3 of the bottom 5 teams will have new coaches as well provided Al Davis doesn't remove the "interim" from Tom Cable's title.

Here are the top 5:

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers ($42 million)
2. Arizona Cardinals ($41 million)
3. Denver Broncos ($34 million)
4. Kansas City Chiefs ($33 million)
5. Tennessee Titans ($31 million)

Here are the bottom 5:

28. Oakland Raiders ($4 million)
29. Indianapolis Colts (-$2 million)
30. Washington Redskins (-$3 million)
31. New Orleans Saints (-$5 million)
32. New York Jets (-$7 million)

Click here to see salary cap flexibility for all teams.

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

Jonathan Vilma busted for reckless driving

New Orleans Saints LB Jonathan Vilma was arrested for reckless driving and resisting arrest last night. He was later released on $6500 bail.

"Clearly he's upset about being arrested and plans to fight it," Vilma's agent, Mitch Frankel, told The Associated Press. "There was no alcohol, drugs or firearms involved. Jonathan plans to vigorously fight it."

Vilma says he was on the way to pick up someone at the airport. At least Vilma didn't say a la Charles Barkley "you want the truth?..."

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

Saints hire Gregg Williams to replace Gibbs

When you think of the New Orleans Saints, your first thought isn't defense unless you're a glass-half-empty guy.

The Saints ranked first in scoring offense (28.9 ppg) and in total offense (410.7) in 2008. But only 5 teams allowed more points (24.6 ppg) than did the Saints defense.

The Saints, who fired defensive coordinator Gary Gibbs, will look to Gregg Williams to change that.

"A lot has gone into this decision, and we targeted Gregg as the coach we'd like to hire after our first interview because he was so impressive and prepared," Payton said. "As an offensive coach, I have game-planned against his defenses in the past, and I know the problems they create. He's an aggressive coach, but his units are always sound fundamentally. We have some pieces in place for him to work with, and I know he's excited to get started."

Last year, Williams led the Jaguars defense, which struggled some and ranked 17th in the defense. However, in his 9 seasons in the league, a Williams-coached defense has ranked in the top 10 more times (5) than it did not (4).

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

Reggie Bush has microfracture surgery

Reggie Bush had microfracture surgery on his left knee. Although Bush has a long rehab ahead of him, he should be ready for the start of minicamp in early June.

"I wouldn't want to call it minor, because he's got a pretty significant period of rehab time, " [GM Mickey] Loomis said. "But at the end of it, he shouldn't have any issues."

Bush's left knee has caused him to miss several games. He had a torn PCL last season, a torn meniscus in the middle of this season and now the microfracture surgery.

"He made some spectacular punt returns and some spectacular explosive plays on offense, and that's what we envisioned for him, " Loomis said. "And he was feeling good about his season, we were feeling good about his season, then he had a setback with this injury.

"But the good news is that the injury has been repaired, and he had a good repair surgically, and the prognosis going forward is very positive. So, our expectation is he'll have a good offseason and pick up where he left off at the beginning of next year."

Bush was third in the league in punt return average (13.5) and tied for the lead in punt return TDs (3) despite playing only 10 games. Bush was also averaging 84 combined rushing and receiving yards per game.

As Loomis mentioned, Bush uses his explosiveness to make plays. It's hard to imagine that he comes back, after all this injuries, and "picks up where he left off."

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

Drew Brees wins Offensive Player of the Year

New Orleans Saints QB Drew Brees won the AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year award.

"I don't come out from week to week and say I have to throw for 300 [yards]," Brees said. "I don't think about that. It's really about what I can do to help this team win."

Brees was without Marques Colston, the team's best WR, for 6 games, Reggie Bush, who led RBs in receiving yards per game (44 ypg), for 6 games and Jeremy Shockey for 4 games. Even without those weapons for considerable periods of time, Brees threw for the 2nd most yards (5,069) in a single season in NFL history.

Adrian Peterson and Peyton Manning tied for 2nd with 9 votes each followed by Philip Rivers (6 votes), DeAngelo Williams (2), Michael Turner (1) and Steve Smith (1).

Tom Brady won the award last year. (See past winners)

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Jeremy Shockey - out vs Panthers

Saints TE Jeremy Shockey is out against the Panthers tomorrow with an ankle injury. Billy Miller will start in Shockey's place.

On the season, Shockey has 50 receptions for 483 yards and no TDs. Miller has 42 receptions and 523 yards and 1 TD.

Although it's unlikely, Drew Brees needs 401 passing yards to set the NFL single-season passing record held by Dan Marino.

Brees has thrown for 400+ yards twice this season. In the past 3 seasons, Brees has thrown for 400+ yards 4 times including a 510-yard performance against the Bengals in 2006.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Week 17 playoff scenarios

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

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

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

AFC Teams:

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

Playoff bound/seed TBD:
none

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

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

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

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

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

San Diego Chargers: same as Denver Broncos.

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

Continue reading "Week 17 playoff scenarios" »

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

NFC Playoff Picture

Earlier in the week, we took a look at the AFC playoff picture. Since then, the Colts have beaten the Jaguars to clinch the 5 seed in the AFC. That means that the Ravens and the non-division winners out of the Jets, Patriots and Dolphins will battle it out for the 6th seed in the AFC.

Let's shift our focus to the NFC. With 2 weeks to play, here are the current seedings in the NFC:

1. New York Giants (11-3)
2. Carolina Panthers (11-3)
3. Minnesota Vikings (9-5)
4. Arizona Cardinals (8-6)
5. Dallas Cowboys (9-5)
6. Atlanta Falcons (9-5)

NFC East:

New York Giants (11-3): With a win tomorrow night against the Panthers, the Giants lock up home-field advantage. If the Giants lose and the Vikings lose to the Falcons, the Giants will clinch the #2 seed and first-round bye. If the Giants lose and the Vikings win, the teams face off in Minnesota next week for the #2 seed.

Dallas Cowboys (9-5): The Cowboys are in as the 5 seed if they win out against the Ravens and Eagles. The Falcons and Bucs have identical records to the Cowboys and the Eagles trail by a half-game. The Bears trail the Cowboys by one game.

Philadelphia Eagles (8-5-1): The Eagles trail the Cowboys, Falcons and Bucs by a half-game. They face the Cowboys next week. If they win out, they are in provided that the Falcons and/or Bucs lose (or tie) at least one of their remaining 2 games.

Washington Redskins (7-7): While the Redskins are not mathematically-eliminated, they need much help with 2 weeks remaining. They need the Eagles, Bucs and Falcons to all lose their remaining games and the Bears to lose at least 1 game and win their 2 remaining games.

Continue reading "NFC Playoff Picture" »

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Interesting NFC South Trend

Everyone who pays attention to the NFL knows about the trend in the NFC South division. The last place team one season wins the division the next. It has happened every season since the conferences have been divided into 4 divisions (2002).

It's an amazing accomplishment to think that the Atlanta Falcons, who finished 4-12 last year and seemed in more disarray than their record indicated, hasn't been mathematically-eliminated from the possibility of winning the division. With some help, 2 Panthers losses (on the road), 1 Buccaneers loss and 2 Falcons victories would give the division to the Falcons.

Another interesting trend that I first posted about on my message board back on October 24th is the success (and lack thereof) of the home (and road) teams. Through today's games, the NFC South has a combined 26-2 record at home. Also, they are 10-18 on the road.

At home, the Panthers are 8-0, Bucs 6-0, Falcons 6-1 and Saints 6-1.

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

Reggie Bush sidelined until MRI

In Thursday's OT loss to the Bears, Saints RB Reggie Bush had 6 carries for 30 yards. 5 of those carries were in the first half and he got his last carry of the game (no gain) with 10:26 to go in the 3rd quarter.

Pierre Thomas carried the ball 22 times for 87 yards and caught 7 passes for 59 yards. Thomas also had 2 touchdowns - one rushing, one receiving.

Reggie Bush won't play until Dr. James Andrews examines his knee and he determines whether or not Bush can go.

"I just work here. I'm just an employee," Bush said after the game. "I don't call the shots. I definitely don't call the plays."

The guy who does "call the shots" had a different perspective.

"I didn't want to play him because I could tell it was affecting him," Payton said. "Once I knew he had sprained it, I didn't want to risk ... injuring it more and putting a player in that wasn't as effective."

"Obviously, I'm rooting for all those guys. I want to play 'em. I want them to be successful and it's in my best interest that they have success," Payton said. "I just felt like [keeping Bush off the field] was the best decision and I think as we examine where he is right now, I was correct."

The Saints haven't been mathematically-eliminated from the post-season yet, but they need to win out and get a lot of help.

Bush has already missed 4 games on the season, but he was having arguably his best season. He has 404 yards rushing and 440 yards receiving in 10 games. He also has 3 return TDs on the season.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

A look at the NFC playoff picture

As I did with every AFC team, we will take a look at all teams playoff aspirations for the NFC.

Here are the current NFC standings:

1. New York Giants (11-1)
2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-3)
3. Minnesota Vikings (7-5)
4. Arizona Cardinals (7-5)
5. Carolina Panthers (9-3)
6. Atlanta Falcons (8-4)

NFC East:

New York Giants (11-1): The Super Bowl champs are clearly (and unfortunately as a Cowboys fan) the team to beat in the NFC/NFL even without Plax. The Giants schedule is tough (PHI, at DAL, CAR, at MIN), but I can't see the Bucs/Panthers making up a 2-game deficit.

Dallas Cowboys (8-4): Entering the season, the Cowboys were the consensus pick in the NFC to reach the Super Bowl. Now with a month to go and perhaps the league's most challenging schedule (at PIT, NYG, BAL, at PHI), they would be on the outside looking in as the 7th team even though they share the same record with the Falcons.

Washington Redskins (7-5): The Redskins have stumbled lately losing 4 of their last 5. With the NFC South likely to have (at least) 1 team make playoffs, the 'Skins are fighting an uphill battle. If the 'Skins can beat the Ravens this week, they finish with a relatively easy final 3 games (at CIN, PHI, at SF).

Philadelphia Eagles (6-5-1): After bouncing back against the Cardinals on Thanksgiving, the Eagles need to bounce back against division rivals. They are 0-3 vs NFC East on season, but get 3 more shots in remaining 4 weeks.

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

NFL suspends 6 players

Today the NFL handed down 4-game suspensions without pay to 6 players for violation of the league's anti-doping policy. The suspended players are Deuce McAllister, Charles Grant and Will Smith from the Saints, Pat Williams and Kevin Williams from the Vikings and Bryan Pittman from the Houston Texans.

All 6 players will miss the remaining regular-season games, but can re-join their teams on December 29th for the post-season.

The league has a clearly laid-out policy on anti-doping. So, even though the banned substance (Bumetanide) that wasn't on the label of StarCaps, the over-the-counter product used by these 6 players, the NFL is holding firm.

"You and you alone are responsible for what goes into your body. Claiming that you used only legally available nutritional supplements will not help you in an appeal. ... Even if they are bought over-the-counter from a known establishment, there is currently no way to be sure that they contain the ingredients listed on the packaging or have not been tainted with prohibited substances ...

"If you take these products, you do so AT YOUR OWN RISK! For your own health and success in the league, we strongly encourage you to avoid the use of supplements altogether, or at the very least to be extremely careful about what you choose to take."

This loss is huge to the Vikings, who beat the Bears Sunday night to take a 1-game lead in the NFC North. The Vikings have only allowed 73.2 rushing yards/game (2nd in NFL) due largely to DT Kevin and Pat Williams.

The Vikings play the Lions this week, but finish up their schedule against the Cardinals, Falcons and Giants (all playoff teams based on current standings).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Mike McKenzie fractures kneecap

Near the end of last season, New Orleans Saints CB Mike McKenzie tore his ACL and meniscus.

Less than a year later, McKenzie fractured his kneecap on a play defending Michael Jenkins of the Falcons during today's game. His rehab should run 3-6 months.

"I hope I get credit for that [tackle]," McKenzie said, forcing a smile while leaning on crutches after the game.

"It's real disappointing," said Saints coach Sean Payton. "His [last] rehab process was very long and tedious. I'm disappointed for him and I'm sure the rest of his teammates feel the same way. ... Certainly, it's a blow to our defense. We've just got to get him healthy and get him fixed."

McKenzie had 22 tackles and 1 interception on the season.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Reggie Bush out 2-4 weeks

Today, the Saints got back Marques Colston and Jeremy Shockey and lose Reggie Bush. Bush will need surgery on his knee and he will miss 2-4 weeks.

Entering today's game, Bush was only averaging 3.1 yards per carry rushing, but he had 5 touchdowns and 600 yards (100 ypg) combined rushing/receiving in the first 6 games of the season. Even more impressive, he was averaging 26.9 yards per punt return with 3 TDs.

Today, Shockey had 5 catches for 50 yards, but Colston had no catches.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

NFC South Preview

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Prediction: 10-6 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: The New Orleans Saints were a popular pre-season pick in 2007, but struggled out of the gates losing their first 4 games of the season. The Saints averaged 361.2 ypg in 2007, which was good enough to make them 4th in the NFL after the Patriots, Packers and Cowboys. With Deuce McAllister back from injury and Jeremy Shockey added in the off-season, I wouldn't be surprised if the Saints led the NFL in offense. However, only 6 teams gave up more yards than the Saints defense did. With the additions of Bobby McCray, Jonathan Vilma and rookie Sedrick Ellis, the Saints defense should be much improved. With the weakest schedule in the NFC South, I expect the Saints to have a bounce-back season.

Interesting Stat/Fact: Drew Brees threw 652 passes in 2007.

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

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (5): vs Tampa Bay, at Washington, vs San Diego, vs Green Bay, at Tampa Bay

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

CAROLINA PANTHERS
Prediction: 9-7 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: The Panthers had an eventful training camp with the Steve Smith and Ken Lucas brawl. Or, more accurately, the Steve Smith sucker punch of Ken Lucas. Lucas has said he's forgiven Smith and has put it behind him. And even though Lucas wishes Smith was active for the first 2 games, Smith will serve a 2-game suspension against San Diego and Chicago. Reports are that Julius Peppers has looked as good as ever. With a healthy Jake Delhomme and rookie Jonathan Stewart adding depth and talent to the Panthers running game, I think the Panthers have a better year than in 2007 when they went 7-9.

Interesting Stat/Fact: Their leading WR (Steve Smith) had more yards receiving (1,002) than their leading QB (Vinny Testaverde) had yards passing (952) last season.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 119-137 (.465)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (5): at San Diego, at Tampa Bay, at Green Bay, vs Tampa Bay, at NY Giants

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

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Prediction: 8-8 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: With a first-place schedule, I expect the Bucs to take a step backwards in 2008. The Bucs' core players are getting old(er): Jeff Garcia, Joey Galloway, Derrick Brooks, Ronde Barber, etc. Will young players like Gaines Adams (5 sacks in last 11 games), Jovan Haye (6 sacks) and rookie Aqib Talib step up? Maybe Michael Clayton has a good year, but he had more yards receiving in his rookie year than he has had in the last 3 years. I think anyone can win the South (excluding the Falcons), but I believe it's most likely the Bucs finish 3rd in 2008.

Interesting Stat/Fact: Michael Clayton had more yards receiving in his rookie year than he has had in the last 3 years.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 120-136 (.469)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (4): vs Green Bay, vs Seattle, at Dallas, vs San Diego

# of Wins Past 3 Years: 24 wins (8.0 per season)

ATLANTA FALCONS
Prediction: 4-12 | Team Home | Team Forum | Team Schedule

Overview: What a year it has been for the Atlanta Falcons! Some of the worst stories in the NFL last year involve the Falcons: Michael Vick, Bobby Petrino, etc. But now the Falcons have a new GM (Thomas Dimitroff), a new Head Coach (Mike Smith), a new starting QB (rookie Matt Ryan) and a new starting RB (Michael Turner). The Falcons have started to put some of the pieces of the puzzle together, however, they clearly remain the worst team in the NFC South. It will a long year for the Falcons, but hopefully more quiet.

Interesting Stat/Fact: Roddy White had 1200+ yards receiving even with the QBs they had in 2007.

Strength of Schedule: 2007 opponents were 118-138 (.461)

2007 Playoff Teams on Schedule (4): at Tampa Bay, at Green Bay, at San Diego, vs Tampa Bay

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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