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The Weekly Blitz - Week 17

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

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

Here are my week 17 picks:

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Football: Week 17 QB rankings

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

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

1. Matt Schaub, Texans (vs Patriots): While they don't control their own destiny like the Jets and Ravens, the Texans need to win to make the playoffs. That means, Schaub will play the entire game. On the season, Schaub has been remarkably consistent with only two single-digit fantasy games and only three games with less than 250 passing yards. Over the past five weeks, the Patriots have allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.

2. Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers (at Dolphins): Big Ben is two games off his franchise-record passing performance (503 yards). Over the past five weeks, the Dolphins have allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. As the Steelers face a similar scenario as the Texans, you should expect Roethlisberger to play the entire game and light up an inexperienced Dolphins' secondary.

3. Brett Favre, Vikings (vs Giants): The Giants secondary has been banged up all season and over the past five weeks, they have allowed the most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. The Vikings have lost three of their past four games and Favre has posted single-digit fantasy points in two of his past three games. Although the Vikings lost to the Bears last week, Favre played well -- 321 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs. With the potential of losing their first-round bye with another defeat, expect Favre and the Vikings to come out swinging -- and gun-slinging.

4. Tony Romo, Cowboys (vs Eagles): In his past five games, Romo has finished with 13+ fantasy points every week. During that span, he has thrown nine touchdowns and only one interception. The mood surrounding the Cowboys is different than last year when they faced the Eagles in a do-or-die game in week 17 last year. The Cowboys didn't respond well last year. Now Romo and the Cowboys have a chance for redemption (and possibly even a first-round bye).

5. Donovan McNabb, Eagles (at Cowboys): With the exception of the two games McNabb missed due to injury, McNabb has posted double-digit fantasy points every week except one. Who held him to under 10 points? This week's opponent. That said, it will be difficult to hold McNabb and their pass-first-and-ask-questions-later offense to less than 10 fantasy points for a second time in a row. McNabb has thrown for 300+ yards in each of the past two weeks and a win Sunday could potentially mean a first-round bye for the Eagles.

Click here to view our full quarterback rankings for week 17.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Big Ben sets franchise passing record

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger had a career -- and franchise -- day by throwing for 503 passing yards and three touchdowns including the game-winner against the Green Bay Packers.

And it was a touchdown pass with time expiring to rookie Mike Wallace that was eerily similar to the one caught by Santonio Holmes in the Super Bowl last year that tied the game at 36-36. Jeff Reed's extra point won it.

The Packers entered the game on a five-game winning streak while the Steelers entered looking to end their five-game losing streak.

The Steelers are now 7-7 and trail the Ravens and Broncos by one game for a wildcard spot. The following five other AFC teams are 7-7: Miami, NY Jets, Houston, Tennessee and Jacksonville.

In weeks 16 and 17, the Steelers face the Ravens and Dolphins.

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

Fantasy Football: Week 14 WR Start'em

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hines Ward could miss Thursday Night game

The Pittsburgh Steelers may be without receiver Hines Ward against the Cleveland Browns on Thursday, according to ESPN's James Walker.

"We'll see where it goes, but it's not favorable for him," (coach Mike) Tomlin said.

The Steelers shouldn't need Ward to beat the Browns, who are arguably the worst team in the league. Then again, Pittsburgh is on a four-game losing streak including yesterday's loss to the Oakland Raiders with Ward.

That said, if Ward doesn't play, it increases the fantasy value of receivers Santonio Holmes and Mike Wallace.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:50 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 Start'em for Week 13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (1)

Big Ben to miss Ravens game

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fantasy Football: Week 11 RB Studs

Here are three running backs that should have big weeks in fantasy football for week 11:

Kevin Smith, Lions: Along with Cincinnati's Cedric Benson and Baltimore's Ray Rice, Detroit's Kevin Smith was one of my Five Running Backs to Target in Fantasy Drafts. While Benson and Rice have exceeded even my expectations, Smith has been a huge disappointment in 2009. This season, Smith has rushed for 515 yards and only three touchdowns through nine games. He has only one 100-yard rushing game (week 3) and he hasn't scored a touchdown in five weeks. Smith's fortunate should change this week as the Lions face the Cleveland Browns this week. Only the Bills have allowed more fantasy points and more rushing touchdowns to running backs this season.

Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers: Mendenhall loves playing the AFC West as his two best games of the year came against the Broncos (155 rushing yards) and Chargers (165 rushing yards). This week, Mendenhall and the Steelers visit the Chiefs, who have allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to running backs this season. The Steelers should be able to establish an early lead against a bad Kansas City team that will be without its best offensive player (Dwayne Bowe) for the next four weeks. With a matchup against the Raiders in week 13, Mendenhall could have an opportunity to eclipse the century mark against the entire division.

Beanie Wells, Cardinals: In his past four games, Wells has scored three touchdowns and is averaging 5.3 yards per carry. Wells is also getting a bigger chunk of the workload in his timeshare with Tim Hightower. In the past four games, Wells has 51 carries compared to 37 carries for Hightower. In the first five games of the season, the split was in Hightower's favor (51 to 35). With a favorable matchup against the Rams, who have given up the fourth-most fantasy points to running backs, Wells (and Hightower, for that matter) should have a big day Sunday.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:55 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)

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 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)

The Weekly Blitz - Week 7

Every week, I pick three games against the spread (ATS) and last week was a good week (3-0 ATS). That improves my 2009 record to 10-8 although it pales in comparison to last year's record (31-18-2 ATS).

I like the matchups this week more than I have in previous weeks and here are my week 7 picks:

Steelers -5 (over Vikings): The Steelers haven't allowed a 100-yard rusher in 24 straight games and their run defense ranks second in the NFL. The Vikings are tied for the NFL lead in sacks (21). Although both teams are known for their great defenses, this game features the leader in passing yards (Ben Roethlisberger), rushing yards (Adrian Peterson) and receiving yards (Hines Ward) through six weeks. The Vikings are tied for second in turnover differential (+8) and Brett Favre has only two interceptions. For a QB that has averaged 1.12 INT's/game throughout his illustrious yet lengthy career, however, a regression to the mean is long overdue. Take the Steelers and give the points.

Falcons +4 (over Cowboys): The rule of thumb is that home-field advantage equates to three points. Therefore, this spread implies that the Cowboys are better (albeit by one point, but better nonetheless) than the Falcons on a neutral field. Really? As a Cowboys' fan, I'd like to believe that. But I can't. The Cowboys are coming off a bye and have had an extra week to prepare, which makes it an uphill battle for the Falcons. That being said, the Cowboys, who have a -4 turnover differential, tend to shoot themselves in the foot. Atlanta's turnover differential is +5. Although defense isn't Atlanta's strength, they rank fourth in the NFL in scoring defense (15.4 ppg) and haven't given up more than 26 points in any game this season. If the Falcons don't win this game outright, they should at least keep this game close.

Giants -7 (over Cardinals): Not only are the Cardinals one-dimensional on offense (5th in passing, 31st in rushing), they are one-dimensional on defense as well. They lead the NFL in rushing defense (59.6 ypg) and have held Maurice Jones-Drew, Steve Slaton and Frank Gore to 66, 39 and 30 rushing yards, respectively. However, their pass defense has allowed 265.2 passing yards per game, which is worse than every team except Tennessee. On the other hand, the Giants are more balanced with the following rankings: rush offense (5), pass offense (12), run defense (18) and pass defense (1). After an embarrassing loss to New Orleans, the Giants will come out swinging after last week's "Big Queasy" performance. In the past three years, the Giants are 5-0 against the spread (ATS) in games versus NFC West opponents.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:09 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)

Steelers lose Aaron Smith for year

According to Gerry Dulac and Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazzette, Steelers defensive end Aaron Smith has been placed on injured reserve (IR), which will end his season.

Last week, Smith, one of the league's best run-stopping ends, tore his rotator cuff against the Lions.

To take Smith's roster spot, the Steelers signed DE Ra'Shon "Sunny" Harris, their sixth-round draft pick, from the Panthers' practice squad.

The Steelers led the NFL in total defense (237.2 yards per game) and they were second in run defense (80.3 yards per game) in 2008. This year, they are fourth in overall defense (290.8 ypg) and second in run defense (71.2 ypg).

As the Post-Gazzette points out, their defense struggled in the four games Smith missed in 2007 by allowing 157.2 rushing ypg.

"I think he's one of the unsung heroes in this league," Steelers free safety Ryan Clark said (via the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review), "a guy that's underappreciated for what he's done for many years."

In Smith's absence, the Steelers will use a committee of first-rounder Ziggy Hood, Travis Kirschke and Nick Eason.

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

Fantasy Studs - Week 5 Running Backs

Heading into week five, here are some running backs that I expect to have a big week:

Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers: What a difference a week made! Mendenhall, who was relegated to special teams duties in week 3, was named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week in week 4. With Willie Parker out against the Chargers last week, Mendenhall finished with 165 rushing yards and two scores on 29 carries. While it may interesting to see how coach Mike Tomlin splits carries between Mendenhall and Parker going forward, we won't find out this week as Parker has been ruled out for the game against Detroit. The Steelers should run all over the Lions this week and Mendenhall owners should expect to see the second-year back get a heavy dose of touches. The Lions are allowing 5.2 rushing yards per attempt and 121.3 yards per game (20th in NFL).

Jerome Harrison, Browns: With James Davis and Jamal Lewis out last week, Harrison had 29 carries against the Bengals and finished with 121 yards. Davis is out for the season and Lewis is questionable for week five against the Bills. The Bills have one of the league's worst rushing defenses allowing 150.5 yards per game. Only five teams have allowed more rushing yards per game. Also, the Bills have allowed seven rushing touchdowns, which ranks them 30th in the league.

Ahmad Bradshaw, Giants: Through four weeks, Bradshaw, who is back-up to Brandon Jacobs, is 13th in the NFL in rushing yards (265) and he's averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Both Jacobs and Bradshaw are likely to have a huge week against an Oakland Raiders rush defense that is allowing 146.3 yards per game, which is 26th in the league. The Giants are two-touchdown-plus favorites over the Raiders. If they establish an early lead, as expected, both backs should see plenty of carries. In addition, Eli Manning has plantar fasciitis. Although he's expected to play, it wouldn't surprise me if they try to protect him as much as possible and focus on the running game instead. Surprisingly, the Giants have only one rushing touchdown in 139 attempts this season. Only the Rams, Bills and Chiefs have less (i.e. zero). Their fortunes are about to change this week.

Knowshon Moreno, Broncos: Moreno, who was the first RB drafted this year, is off to a solid start and ranked 16th in the NFL in rushing (249 yards). Teammate Correll Buckhalter, who ranks 12th in the league in rushing, is out for the Patriots game. Moreno, who has averaged over 17 carries per game over his past three games, should expect to see an increase in workload with Buckhalter out. Although the Patriots have a solid run defense, Moreno's increased workload makes him a solid play this week.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:57 AM | 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)

Polamalu has MCL sprain, out 3-6 weeks, per Tomlin

The Pittsburgh Steelers and Tennessee Titans kicked off the NFL season with an overtime thriller. In the first (and only) series of overtime, Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger led the Steelers on a five-play scoring drive that was capped by a 33-yard field goal from Jeff Reed.

However, Steelers safety Troy Polamalu, who was all other the field in the first half, suffered an MCL sprain and he will miss 3-6 weeks, per coach Mike Tomlin (via James Walker of ESPN).

The Steelers have six games between now and their bye week, as follows: at Chicago, at Cincinnati, vs San Diego, at Detroit, vs Cleveland and vs Minnesota.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:46 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)

2009 AFC North Prediction

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

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

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

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

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

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

Continue reading "2009 AFC North Prediction" »

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

Links to all 32 NFL team final roster cuts

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

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

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

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

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

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

No rotation for Parker and Mendenhall?

Who am I to question the coach of the defending Super Bowl champions?

But with running backs taking the pounding the way they do, doesn't it make sense for the Steelers to split carries between Willie Parker and Rashard Mendenhall?

Not according to Steelers coach Mike Tomlin.

"Willie Parker's our runner," Tomlin said (via Kevin Gorman of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review). "Rashard's done a nice job and he's going to get an opportunity to get his touches, but more important than anything else, Willie Parker is our runner."

According to The Sporting News, via Yahoo!, Mendenhall said: "With the game today and how it's played, you need more than one running back. There's a lot of two-, three-back systems. The nature of the game, how physical it is, and how violent it is, to have a couple guys that can be fresh and produce, that helps the offense."

Both Parker and Mendenhall, the Steelers' first-round pick last year, missed significant time last year. Parker played in 11 games and Mendenhall fractured his shoulder after four games.

To me, a 60-40 split would make sense and perhaps keep both running backs healthy and/or fresh for the full season and playoffs. Since they won't start out in a "rotation," I would expect Mendenhall to earn a larger share of the carries as the season progresses regardless of what Tomlin says today.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:38 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)

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)

Steelers sign Evander "Ziggy" Hood

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed Evander "Ziggy" Hood to a five-year deal, according to Mike Prisuta of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

The Steelers selected Evander "Ziggy" Hood with the 32nd overall pick in this year's draft.

Hood, a 6'3" and 300-pound defensive tackle from Missouri, will primarily play as a 3-4 defensive end in a back-up role for the Steelers this year.

At the NFL Combine, Hood benched 225 pounds for 34 reps and ran a 4.97 forty.

Pittsburgh opens training camp this Friday and all of their rookies are already signed. The last time a rookie missed training camp was Ben Roethlisberger in 2004 when he missed four days.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Santonio Holmes: "We look forward to going back to the Super Bowl"

Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Santonio Holmes has added some weight this off-season. And it seems as though some of it has gone to his head.

Per John Harris of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Holmes believes it's a matter of "when" - not "if" - the Steelers get back to the Super Bowl.

"We're not wondering will we make it back, if we'll make it back," said Holmes. "We look forward to going back to the Super Bowl."

"At the start of that first game, it's definitely going to be a blessing to see these guys (that) did it last year," Holmes said. "But we know (with) the hard work that we put in, we're looking forward to going."

Last year, Holmes caught the game-winning catch and was named the Most Valuable Player in Super Bowl XLIII.

While the Steelers may have as good of a chance to get (back) to the Super Bowl as any other team (technically, not true if you go by Vegas odds), you don't win a Super Bowl in July - you win 'em in June.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Santonio Holmes adds weight and strength for 2009

Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Santonio Holmes has added some bulk for the 2009 season. He currently weighs an all-time high of 201 pounds, per John Harris of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

He expects to lose some of the added weight when training camp starts and play the season at 195 pounds.

"The weight is starting to come on,'' he said. "I really need that strength in the upper body because I know I'm going to start getting more and more Cover-2 this season. I'm going to face a lot more bigger corners this year than I did in previous years, so I've got to get off those jams and separate myself from those guys."

"I think there's definitely going to be more attention with the performance I put up in the Super Bowl and throughout the playoffs. Those guys are going to say let's try to hold him (down).''

As Harris points out, Holmes will likely face an increased amount of double coverage with Hines Ward moving to the slot.

Holmes was named the Super Bowl MVP in the Steelers' win over the Arizona Cardinals in Super Bowl XLIII.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers, Starks agree on four-year contract

The Pittsburgh Steelers have given left tackle Max Starks a new four-year contract that is worth $26.3 million including a $10 million signing bonus, per The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. He is now under contract until 2012.

Earlier in the off-season, the Steelers designated Starks with the franchise tag, which would have guaranteed Starks a salary of $8.451 million in 2009.

"It was good deal for both sides," Steelers Director of Football Operations Kevin Colbert said. "It gives Max long-term security and it gives us security at a critical position. It also gives us cap flexibility to possibly get some more things done."

Starks, the Steelers third-round pick in 2004, started at right tackle in Super Bowl XL and at left tackle in Super Bowl XLIII.

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

Steelers' off-season workouts epitomize teamwork

The Pittsburgh Steelers focus their off-season practices more on teaching and mentorship than on evaluation, according to Scott Brown of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

What is expected from the Steelers' players is that they help mentor rookies and younger players, even though they are competing with those same players for their jobs, their livelihood and their playing time.

"That's what's special about us," said cornerback Deshea Townsend. "When we say we are a team, we really are a team."

"If you get everybody to come together, then you'll be strong during the season because you might need a play or two from that guy," cornerback William Gay said. "So, if you hold information back and a guy gets out there and messes up, the blame is on you because you could have helped him instead of being selfish."

It seems as if every team would (or should) be this way, but that is clearly not the case.

Steelers tackle Willie Colon says that he has even heard of players on some teams giving teammates wrong information on purpose.

"I had a couple of buddies that made the NFL and they were like 'Man, guys don't talk to you, and they actually tell you something wrong, and it kind of makes you look bad,' " Colon said. "I was like, 'Is this guy really telling me the truth?' and extra paranoid about my playbook because I didn't know if someone was telling me the truth. But here, it's not like that."

Talent matters. It matters a lot. But the teams that are consistently successful have support systems like this in place as well as the personnel that are willing to put the interests of the team above their own.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

James Harrison still not going to White House

Per Scott Brown of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Steelers LB James Harrison, who won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award last season, is still not going to the White House when the Super Bowl champs visit President Barack Obama tomorrow.

And he says it has nothing to do with politics.

"Really, I could care less about the reaction," Harrison said. "That's my decision and I'm sticking with it. I'm surprised they're making a big deal about it. 'Oh my, James Harrison isn't going to the White House, he must be a devil worshiper.' "

President Obama nominated Steelers owner Dan Rooney ambassador to Ireland. When asked, he said he wouldn't visit the White House out of consideration to Rooney.

"I decided not to go because I didn't want to go. That's all there is to it." Harrison later said, "If Mr. Rooney wanted me to go to Ireland, I'd go."

When the Steelers won the Super Bowl in 2006, Harrison did not go with the team to the White House.

As teammate James Farrior said, "I think if he would have kept his mouth shut nobody would have noticed it this time."

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Foote officially released by Steelers

As expected, the Pittsburgh Steelers have officially released linebacker Larry Foote according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

"Larry has been a big part of our success, but unfortunately the realities of the salary cap made this decision inevitable," Steelers director of football operations Kevin Colbert said in a release. "We wish Larry and his family nothing but the best as he moves forward with his career."

Foote, the Steelers' fourth-round pick in 2002, is seeking an opportunity for more playing time with another team.

Many expect that the team to be his hometown Detroit Lions.

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

Hines Ward hopes to retire a Steeler

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward will likely spend his entire playing career with the Pittsburgh Steelers after signing a four-year extension that will keep the 33-year-old in a Steelers' uniform through the 2013 season.

"It's a big honor for me to start my career here and evidently end my career here," Ward said at the weekend's minicamp. "I couldn't be happier."

In the free-agency era, the Pittsburgh Steelers have had only two players make the Pro Bowl and spend their entire career with the Steelers: center Dermontti Dawson and nose tackle Joel Steed. Ward will likely become the third.

"Especially for how my career started, this is a huge accomplishment," he said of his enduring play with the team. "For me, I really don't want to put on another uniform. That was never my intention, never my goal. To assure I will always wear a black and gold uniform, I'm relieved.

"When I leave this game, I want to be one of those guys people say, 'He was a hell of a Steeler.' I know my legacy will be a Steeler for life. The two match. It goes together."

Ward is 220 receiving yards shy of 10,000. He holds the team record for receptions (800), receiving yards (9780) and receiving touchdowns (72).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

"The Tank" to get goal-line carries for Pittsburgh?

The Pittsburgh Steelers had Jerome "The Bus" Bettis. Now, they have Frank "The Tank" Summers.

Summers, who is 5'9" and weighs 242 pounds, was drafted in the fifth round of this year's draft and should receive his fair share of goal-line carries.

"I love scoring touchdowns and, when it's crunch time in a game and they're looking at a short-yardage situation, that's what I pride myself on. That's the best feeling in the world.

"I don't think I could fit any better than on any other team in the league. With Pittsburgh's physical play and my physical style, we go hand in hand."

Last year, Willie Parker and Mewelde Moore both had five rushing touchdowns. Rookie Rashard Mendenhall spent the majority of the year on IR.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Larry Foote has asked to be released

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Larry Foote has asked to be released from the Steelers, who unsuccessfully attempted to trade him over draft weekend. He has one year left on his contract and is due a salary of $2,885,000 for 2009.

Foote, who is from Detroit, has said that he'd like to play for his hometown team if he were released.

"It's nothing personal," said Foote, who turns 29 on June 12. "James Farrior never slows down, and Timmons came in and I can't grow here any more. They turned me into a two-down linebacker last year. I was stuck in a role.

"I love the team, I love winning, but you can't keep being unhappy. It got to the point where they were not giving me a chance."

Although Foote started all 19 games (16 regular-season games and three post-season games) last year, he felt it was only a matter of time before Lawrence Timmons replaced him in the starting lineup as he did in the nickel package.

Foote had 86 tackles and 1.5 sacks in 2008 while Timmons had 71 tackles and five sacks.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers met with Ashley Lelie

The Pittsburgh Steelers met with wide receiver Ashley Lelie yesterday according to John Harris of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

"He had a great visit. The Steelers and I are going to continue to have open dialogue," [Lelie's agent Peter] Schaffer said. "I think there's some mutual interest, and we're going to keep discussing it."

"It was a very productive day for Ashley," Schaffer said. "The Steelers, I think, came away with the same opinion, and we're going to keep an open line of communication."

With Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes as starters, rookie receiver Mike Wallace, who the Steelers drafted in the third round, and last year's second-round pick Limas Sweed are expected to compete for the third receiver spot.

Nate Washington occupied that role in 2008, but he has signed with the Tennessee Titans as a free agent.

In the past two seasons, Lelie's production has dropped off a cliff. He has 21 receptions for 312 yards in 28 games.

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

Steelers, Ward agree to extension

Per John Clayton of ESPN, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Hines Ward have agreed to a four-year extension worth $22 million.

Instead of becoming a free agent after this season, Ward is now under contract until 2013 and will finish his career in Pittsburgh.

Ward, who's arguably the best blocking WR in the NFL, ranks 22nd all-time in receptions (800) and 34th all-time in receiving yards (9780).

He was MVP of Super Bowl XL.

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

And with the 32nd-overall pick...

The Pittsburgh Steelers have selected Evander "Ziggy" Hood, DT from Missouri.

Some players still on the board after round one include Florida State's Everette Brown, USC's Rey Maualuga, Western Michigan's Louis Delmas, Arizona's Eben Britton, Ohio State's James Lauranaitis, Wake Forest's Alphonso Smith and Connecticut's Darius Butler.

Detroit is on the clock to start the second round. See all 2009 NFL Draft Picks.

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

Steelers sign Keiwan Ratliff

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed cornerback Keiwan Ratliff to a one-year contract. Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed.

The Steelers lost CB Bryant McFadden to the Arizona Cardinals via free agency and Ratliff becomes the first unrestricted free agent the Steelers have signed from another team this off-season.

With the loss of McFadden, the Steelers were expected to address the cornerback position early in the draft. By signing Ratliff, however, the Steelers have more flexibility.

Ratliff, who was drafted by the Bengals in second round in 2004, had 32 tackles and two interceptions in 13 games for the Colts last year.

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

Ex-Steeler John Banaszak hospitalized

Per the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, John Banaszak, who played DE for the Pittsburgh Steelers and is currently an assistant coach at Robert Morris, was hospitalized after becoming ill while working out.

"It was touch-and-go earlier, but we're hoping for the best," [Robert Morris sports information director Jim] Duzyk said. "Nothing has been ruled out. Knowing coach Banaszak, he'll keep fighting it."

Reports that Banaszak suffered aneurysms weren't confirmed, but he is expected to make a full recovery.

Banaszak played for the Steelers from 1975 to 1981. He started in two of the three Super Bowls (XIII & XIV) he won as a Steeler.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 05:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ike Taylor restructures contract

The Pittsburgh Steelers have restructured cornerback Ike Taylor's contract for a second year in a row. Taylor's agent Joel Segal told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review that it was a "minor restructure."

"We were very, very tight, and we actually couldn't add Charlie [Batch] without deleting somebody ," [Steelers' director of football operations Kevin] Colbert said. "With the uncertainty of the (collective bargaining agreement), it's harder to manipulate not only new contracts but some of the stuff you used to do to create (salary cap) room as far as guaranteeing and turning it into a signing bonus."

The Steelers released RB Gary Russell to make room to sign Charlie Batch.

Taylor, who has two years remaining on his contract, had 65 tackles and one interception in 2008.

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

Hines Ward won't be a hold-out this year

Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Hines Ward is entering the final season of his contract.

Although Ward held out and missed two weeks of training camp in 2005, he says that he won't let that happen again.

Today was the first voluntary practice of the spring and the team will have a mandatory, three-day mini-camp beginning on May 1.

"The contract, we're just going to play and whatever happens happens,'' Ward said.

"I want to be a Steeler . . . I don't want to put on another uniform. I'm late in the game now to worry about it. You look at all the previous players who went on and played for other places. I learned a lot from Jerome [Bettis], what he did. I want to go down in Steelers history to be one of the better wideouts to wear the black and gold."

Ward, the best blocking WR in football, led the Steelers in receiving with 81 receptions, 1043 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in 2008.

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

Charlie Batch back with Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers will re-sign QB Charlie Batch to back-up Ben Roethlisberger. Batch will earn a base salary of $745,000.

Byron Leftwich, who served as Roethlisberger's back-up after Batch got hurt last year, signed a two-year contract with the Bucs.

Batch served as primary back-up in 2007 when he completed 17 of 36 passes for 232 yards and two touchdowns. He also threw three interceptions.

The other QB in the roster is Dennis Dixon, who was drafted in the fifth round last year.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers, Harrison agree to six-year, $51.175 deal

If the rule is the Pittsburgh Steelers don't re-sign thirty-something players to big contracts, linebacker James Harrison is the exception to the rule.

The Steelers and Harrison have agreed to a six-year contract that is worth $51.175 million with $20 million guaranteed.

"James is very pleased," said Bill Parise, Harrison's agent. "He had made it very clear to me that he would like to be a Pittsburgh Steeler. I think he's a little relieved that that's going to be taken care of."

Last year, Harrison, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, set the team sack record last year with 16 and returned an interception 100 yards in Super Bowl XLIII.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers have high hopes for Limas Sweed

Pittsburgh Steelers WR Limas Sweed, selected in the second round last year, expects to make a big jump from 2008 to 2009.

Of course, with only six receptions last year and a big drop in the AFC Championship game, Sweed has set the bar low.

Entering his senior season, however, Sweed was a pre-season All-American who suffered a wrist injury that ended his season early. And the adjustment for rookie receivers can be one of the most difficult to make out of college.

"I think that's a big thing," Sweed said, repeating a refrain often heard by rookie receivers. "When I was out there thinking so much I couldn't get from point A to point B as fast as I can when I'm not thinking. It's just thinking too much."

I thought the Steelers had two steals on the first day of the 2008 NFL draft by selecting RB Rashard Mendenhall with the 23rd overall pick and Sweed in the second round. It's too early to judge whether I was right or wrong, but the good news is there is no where to go but up for both of those players.

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

Bucs to sign Leftwich to two-year deal

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and free-agent QB Byron Leftwich have agreed to a two-year deal according to ESPN.

Last year, Leftwich played well in a back-up to Ben Roethlisberger in Pittsburgh. In five games of action, he had a QB rating of 104.3 and threw for 303 yards and two touchdowns.

The other three QBs on the Buccaneers' roster are Josh McCown, Josh Johnson and Brian Griese.

The question is will the Bucs add a third Josh in two weeks at the NFL draft. Before this move, I expected the Bucs to draft Kansas State QB Josh Freeman.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers, Harrison close to new deal

Per Scott Brown of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, the Steelers and linebacker James Harrison are close to a new deal.

Harrison would have earned $1.2 million in 2009. However, the value of the new deal is believed to be worth around $45 million.

Last year, Harrison, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, set the team sack record last year with 16. He has made the Pro Bowl the past two seasons.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Byron Leftwich talking to Redskins about contract

Free-agent QB Byron Leftwich, who was the back-up in Pittsburgh last year, met with the Washington Redskins on Friday.

Per Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the two sides are in contract talks.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin would like to re-sign both free-agent back-up QBs from 2008 - Leftwich and Charlie Batch.

Leftwich threw passes in five separate games and finished with a QB rating of 104.3 in 2008. He threw for 303 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions.

The Redskins were actively pursuing Jay Cutler, who Denver traded to the Chicago Bears.

It's no secret that Leftwich wants the opportunity to become a starting QB again. If the 'Skins sign him, he may get his opportunity via an open QB competition this summer.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers to begin title defense vs Titans

In week 16 of the regular season, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Tennessee Titans met at LP Field in Nashville. The Titans won that game 31-14 and locked up home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

In that game, some Titans' players stomped on the "terrible towel." While the Steelers never got their rematch (since the Titans lost to the Ravens in the divisional round), they did get the last laugh by winning Super Bowl XLIII.

Per the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, the Steelers will host the Titans in the NFL season opener on Thursday, September 10th at Heinz Field.

The full 2009 schedule should be released in April.

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

Steelers re-sign two of their unrestricted free agents

The Pittsburgh Steelers have re-signed two of their free agents, tackle Trai Essex and cornerback Fernando Bryant.

Essex signed a two-year contract that will pay him $620,000 and $800,000 over the next two seasons as well as a $500,000 signing bonus.

Bryant signed a one-year contract worth $745,000.

After these moves, the Steelers have re-signed eight of their free agents. Four of the free agents play on the offensive line: Essex, guard Chris Kemoeatu and tackles Max Starks and Willie Colon. The other four players are Bryant, TE/FB Sean McHugh and linebackers Andre Frazier and Arnold Harrison

Drafted in the third round of the 2005 NFL draft by the Steelers, Essex has started five games and has played in 33 games. Drafted in the first round of the 1999 NFL draft by the Jaguars, Bryant joined the Steelers last November and appeared in only two games in 2008.

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

Willie Colon signs tender

Pittsburgh Steelers starting right tackle Willie Colon was a restricted free agent (RFA). The Steelers tendered Colon for $2,198,000.

Based on Colon's tender, the Steelers would have received a first-round draft choice if Colon signed elsewhere and the Steelers didn't match the offer.

Today Colon signed the tender with the Steelers.

Colon has started the past two years at right tackle. The Steelers left tackle will be Max Starks, who started when Marvel Smith was injured last year. The Steelers designed Starks as their franchise player.

That means both starting tackles will become free agents next after the 2009 season. The Steelers could negotiate a longer-term deal with Starks up to July 15th.

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

Arizona Cardinals sign Bryant McFadden

The Arizona Cardinals have signed their second defensive free agent of the off-season. After signing Keith Lewis, who was waived by the San Francisco 49ers last month, the Cards have added free-agent CB Bryant McFadden from the Pittsburgh Steelers.

McFadden, the Steelers' 2nd-round draft pick in 2005, signed a 2-year, $10 million contract despite being dubbed an "$8 million a year player" by his agent, Drew Rosenhaus.

As Deshea Townsend's replacement in the starting lineup, McFadden had 41 tackles and 2 interceptions in 10 games. A broken arm kept him out of the other 6 games.

Steelers' defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau has indicated that William Gay, who had 41 tackles and 1 interception, will likely start in McFadden's place.

"I think we've got a good, quality player there," LeBeau said of Gay, "who should continue to grow."

Last year, the Cardinals' starting cornerbacks were Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Roderick Hood. McFadden is expected to compete with Hood for the starting gig.

Both the Steelers and Cardinals have lost two defensive free agents this off-season. The Steelers have lost McFadden and safety Anthony Smith, who signed with the Packers. The Cardinals have lost Antonio Smith to Houston and Matt Stewart to Dallas.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Kemo re-signs with Steelers despite offer from Jets

Pittsburgh Steelers guard Chris Kemoeatu wasn't a free agent for long.

Today the Steelers signed Kemoeatu to a 5-year, $20 million contract, which is similar to the per-year amount the Jets were believed to have offered Kemo. The deal includes a $3.885 million signing bonus.

"Obviously, he's very happy," said his agent, Ken Vierra. "The Jets were extremely aggressive and professional. At the end of the day, it was an opportunity to win another Super Bowl and stay with his teammates, along with a good, aggressive, solid offer from the Steelers. That was enough to keep him there."

Kemoeatu was drafted by the Steelers in 6th-round of the 2005 NFL draft and became a starter when perennial All-Pro guard Alan Faneca left for the Jets last off-season.

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

Chris Kemoeatu considering offers from Jets, Steelers

Per Rich Cimini of the Daily News, the New York Jets have made an offer to Steelers guard Chris Kemoeatu, who became an unrestricted free agent at 12:01 a.m. this morning. The contract offer is in the $4-million-per-range.

The Steelers are also negotiating with Kemoeatu, who is 6'3" and weighs 344 pounds.

The Jets cut guard Brandon Moore yesterday and, if the Jets sign Kemoeatu to replace Moore, Kemo would be the second Steelers' guard that the Jets signed in as many off-seasons. The Jets signed free agent Alan Faneca last year.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Nate Washington meeting with Lions today

The Detroit Lions will meet with free-agent WR Nate Washington today. Contract talks are in preliminary stages and Washington might visit with other teams as well.

“That gives the Lions a one-two punch that can compete with anybody in the league,” said Brian Overstreet, Washington’s agent.

To be fair, pairing virtually any WR with the Lions Calvin Johnson creates a nasty 1-2 punch.

But as the Steelers' #3 WR in 2008, Washington, who had 40 receptions, 631 receiving yards and 3 TDs in 2008, led the Steelers in receiving average (15.8 yards/catch).

With the double teams that Johnson will receive, Washington is a big-play WR that would see lots of single coverage.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers release Simmons, tender Colon

The Pittsburgh Steelers released guard Kendall Simmons, who was the Steelers' first-round draft pick in 2002. He will become an unrestricted free agent.

The Steelers issued a first-round tender for tackle Willie Colon. He will earn a salary of $2,198,000 unless he signs elsewhere. If he signs elsewhere, the Steelers would have the ability to match the offer. If they don't match it, they would receive a first-round pick as compensation.

FB Sean McHugh and CB Anthony Madison received tenders of $1.01 million. The Steelers receive a 7th-round pick as compensation for McHugh and no compensation for Madison (since he was undrafted) if they sign elsewhere.

The Steelers also released LB Mike Humpal, who spent last year on injured reserve.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Marvel Smith to become free agent

In all likelihood, Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Marvel Smith, who finished the 2008 season on IR, will become a free agent on Friday. Smith's agent says that he hasn't heard from the Steelers.

The Steelers franchised Max Starks, who replaced Smith after he was injured last year.

"I haven't heard from them," agent Ken Zuckerman said yesterday. "We're planning that they're moving forward and we're moving forward. That's what we're looking at. They tagged Starks, they're talking to other linemen, so we're assuming that they're moving forward in a different direction and so are we."

The Steelers have a history of not re-signing their 30-something veterans. Priority Sports and Entertainment, which employs Zuckerman, also represents guard Alan Faneca, who left the Steelers last off-season. So, Zuckerman says that he prepared Smith, who's 31, for the inevitable.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Jeff Reed has pleaded guilty to 2 misdemeanors

Last week, Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Jeff Reed was cited for disorderly conduct and criminal mischief for an incident in a convenience store.

He has pleaded guilty to all charges and will pay a fine of $544 that includes replacing the towel holder that he damaged.

It's safe to say the sh-t will hit the fan (pun intended) if there are no paper towels in the new dispenser he funded the next time he stops there at 3 a.m.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers franchise Max Starks

The Pittsburgh Steelers used their franchise tag today on tackle Max Starks.

Starks, who started at LT when Marvel Smith was injured last year, will earn a 2009 salary of $8.451 million if he accepts the one-year tender from the Steelers.

Starks can negotiate with other teams. However, if another team makes an offer for Starks that the Steelers do not match, that team will owe the Steelers 2 first-round draft picks as compensation.

The Steelers will continue to negotiate with Starks in an attempt to work out a long-term deal with the 27-year-old tackle.

Starks, who is 6'8" and weighs 337 pounds, was the team's 3rd-round draft pick in 2004.

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

Santonio Holmes' gloves raise $70k for charity

During the week leading up to the Super Bowl, Pittsburgh Steelers WR Santonio Holmes announced to the world that he had sold drugs for one year when he was high school. By telling the world, his intent was to help at-risk youth make the right decision in life.

Now Holmes, who's son has sickle cell anemia, has auctioned off the gloves he wore to catch the game-winning TD to raise money for the Sickle Cell Anemia Association of America. The gloves sold for $70,200.

Holmes became one of 3 Pittsburgh Steelers wide receivers to win the Super Bowl MVP. The other two are Hines Ward (SB XL) and Lynn Swann (SB X). (See all past Super Bowl MVPs.)

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers' Jeff Reed cited for disorderly conduct

Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Jeff Reed was cited for disorderly conduct and criminal mischief for an incident at the Sheetz convenience store. The offenses are similar to traffic tickets.

[Reed] "...used profane language towards a Sheetz employee stating that there were no towels in the restroom," police said.

"Reed continued using profane language in a loud manner outside the store. Reed caused damage to a towel dispenser as he was infuriated at the fact that there were no towels in it," according to police.

Look on the bright side. At least you know he washed his hands afterwards.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 04:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hines Ward has shoulder surgery

Pittsburgh Steelers WR Hines Ward, who said he may need surgery on his knee, had surgery...on his shoulder.

According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the surgery was to "clean up" Ward's shoulder.

The good news for Ward is that he won't need surgery on his knee and both his knee and shoulder should be fine for next season.

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

Roethlisberger played with 2 fractured ribs

According to a report by Peter King of Sports Illustrated, Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger played Super Bowl XLIII with a pair of broken ribs.

Supposedly, X-rays taken before the Super Bowl, which coach Mike Tomlin denied Big Ben had, did not show cracked ribs. But an MRI last week did.

"Fractured ribs," Roethlisberger said. "Luckily, in the game, I didn't take any big hits to make 'em hurt. But I knew all along there was something wrong. There wouldn't have been anything they could have done about fractured ribs anyway. It was just suck it up and play."

Big Ben, who was sacked twice in the game, is as tough as any other QB in the league.

Roethlisberger led the Steelers to a game-winning score with less than a minute to go on a pass thrown to Santonio Holmes, who won the Super Bowl MVP. He completed 21 of 30 passes for 256 yards.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

David Tyree says his catch is best ever

NY Giants WR David Tyree says his catch in Super Bowl XLII against the New England Patriots was the greatest ever.

"You're talking about an 18-0 Patriots team, 12-point underdogs, and me. Santonio Holmes is a starter, and you have me who had four catches [in the 2007 regular season]."

Santonio Holmes, Super Bowl XLIII MVP, made a great catch to give the Steelers the lead (and eventual win) with less than a minute to go against the Arizona Cardinals.

However, Tyree's catch against his helmet with Rodney Harrison trying to pry the ball free is the greatest catch I've ever seen. And Eli Manning's elusiveness in the pocket was no small feat either.

Here's the Tyree/Manning play:

Here's the Santonio Holmes catch:

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

Hines Ward may need surgery

Pittsburgh Steelers WR Hines Ward is one of the toughest players in the league (regardless of position). So it was a certainty that Ward, who sprained his knee in the AFC Championship Game, would play in the Super Bowl.

And he did. But he may have done some more damage to the knee and may need surgery.

"We'll have to see and re-evaluate it," Ward said, "because I don't know if I hurt it (more)."

Ward had 2 catches for 43 yards in the Super Bowl, but Santonio Holmes had 9 catches for 131 yards and the game-winning score.

The pair of Steelers WRs have his and his Escalades given to the Super Bowl MVP. Ward and Holmes were the last 2 WRs to win Super Bowl MVP.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Santonio gets $85k Cadillac Escalade for Super Bowl MVP

General Motors, who decided to not send representation to the Super Bowl, still honored their contract to provide the Super Bowl's MVP with a Cadillac Escalade. This was the 8th year that Cadillac had been the sponsor.

Santonio Holmes, who caught the game-winning touchdown, won the award this year. (See past Super Bowl MVPs.)

"Given the current business environment, it was much more appropriate we not do that," Krell said in a phone interview. "We made the decision not to actively participate in the Super Bowl. We congratulate the MVP, it is a great achievement. We are very sensitive to the federal assistance loan we have received and we want to carry on our fiduciary responsibility. The Super Bowl was not a place for us to be this year. That is not to say it's not a great platform."

The auto industry and their executives have faced much scrutiny in the past year. Perhaps there weren't any private jets available?

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 08:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

350000 show up for "Sixburgh" parade

Two days after winning Super Bowl XLIII, the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrated with 350,000 of their hometown fans.

"Steeler Nation, you leave us all speechless, man. We just appreciate the love," said Tomlin, who walked much of the route waving a Terrible Towel. "How about the Steelers? How about the greatest fans in the world? How about number six? Thank you; we love you guys."

The Steelers have now won 2 of the past 4 Super Bowls and 6 all-time, which is the most by any franchise. (See all past Super Bowl winners.)

The Patriots, however, are early favorites to win Super Bowl XLIV in Miami on February 7, 2010.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 02:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Super Bowl XLIII - most-watched ever

Super Bowl XLIII, one of the most exciting Super Bowls ever, turned out to be the most-watched Super Bowl ever.

Nielsen Research Media said that the game had an average of 98.7 million viewers, which surpasses last year's record-setting Super Bowl XLII, which had 97.5 million viewers. Initially, Nielsen reported 95.4 million average viewers for Sunday's game.

The series finale of MASH is still the all-time #1-rated show with 106 million viewers. However, NBC says that approximately 152 million viewers watched at least "six minutes" of the Super Bowl.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 02:06 AM | 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)

My Super Bowl pick was dead on

If it weren't for the holding call that led to a safety, I would have picked the exact score for both teams.

I predicted that the Steelers would win 27-21. Instead, they won 27-23.

Santonio Holmes said to Larry Fitzgerald that whatever you can do, I can do better.

Fitzgerald scored on 64-yard TD with 2:37 left in the game to give the Cardinals a 23-20 lead. Holmes scored on a 10-yard TD with 0:42 to go.

Both WRs had great games. Holmes: 9 receptions, 131 yards and 1 TD. Fitzgerald: 7 receptions, 127 yards and 2 TDs.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Super Bowl XLIII Prediction

With less than 5 hours until kickoff, I've waited long enough to make my official Super Bowl XLIII prediction. Of course, I would be much more accurate if I waited another 9 hours.

With the exception of the wildcard round, the Arizona Cardinals have surprised me throughout the post-season.

The Cardinals (6-2 at home, 3-5 away) were much more successful at home in 2008. And the Falcons (7-1 at home, 4-4 away) and Michael Turner (14 of his 17 TDs came at home) had much less success on the road this year.

But who didn't write the Cardinals off in the divisional round against the Panthers?

Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald has been unconscious in the post-season. In 3 playoff games, he has 23 receptions for 419 yards and 5 TDs.

This post-season, fellow WR Anquan Boldin has been quiet (at least, on the field). In 2 playoff games, he has 6 receptions for 106 yards and 1 TD.

Perhaps it's a consequence of the sideline confrontration with OC Todd Haley, but I wouldn't be surprised if Boldin has a monster game tonight as the Steelers' defense focuses on Fitzgerald.

The Cards, who have the best WR corps in the NFL, trailed only the Saints in passing ypg this season. Fitzgerald, Boldin and Steve Breaston all had 1,000+ receiving yards.

But with nerves and pressure high, how does the bye week affect the timing of the Cardinals offense?

The Steelers, who have the league's top-rated defense, should be less affected by the time off. In the Steelers' 18 games (16 regular-season, 2 post-season), the Steelers gave up 30+ points only once. And that one game (week 16 against the Titans) included a pick six that the Steelers offense allowed.

The Steelers lost all 3 of the games in which Ben Roethlisberger threw multiple interceptions. Their other loss was the game that the Eagles sacked Big Ben 8 times.

The Cardinals ranked roughly in the middle of the league in total defense (19th), interceptions (tied for 17th) and sacks (tied for 14th), but they ranked near the bottom in scoring defense (28th).

As long as Big Ben plays within himself (i.e., manages the game), I can't pick against the Steelers defense.

Final score: Pittsburgh Steelers 27, Arizona Cardinals 21

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 01:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

2009 Hall of Fame inductees

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

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

Here are some quotes from today's announcement ceremony:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tomlin denies Big Ben had X-rays on back

Pro Football Talk reported this morning that Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger had an X-ray on his back yesterday. However, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin denied reports that Roethlisberger had x-rays this week.

"Ben's health is often the subject of inaccurate reports. He's fine," Tomlin said.

According to SI's Peter King, who is the "pool" reporter for the Steelers, Big Ben was throwing both short and deep routes well in practice despite trying to stretch out his mid-torso area "at times" during practice.

In the Steelers' 2 post-season games this year, Roethlisberger has a 90.8 QB rating and has completed 55.9% of his passes for 2 TDs and 0 INTs.

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

Santonio Holmes sold drugs as a youth

Pittsburgh Steelers WR Santonio Holmes has admitted that he sold drugs for a year when he was in high school.

“I’ve only told three or four people about it,” Holmes said Wednesday. “I feel it’s time to share things. I’m on the biggest stage, everybody’s going to be watching. I’m pretty sure some kids can get a feel for changing their lives and not doing those type of things, and can get an opportunity to get out of the ghetto, the ‘hood, to be successful.”

Holmes, who played at Belle Glade High School and Ohio State, hopes to help other at-risk youth make the right decision.

The Steelers' 2006 first-round draft pick (see Steelers draft history) has 55 receptions for 821 yards and 5 TDs this season.

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

Dick LeBeau to return in 2009

Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau, 71 years young, has announced that he will return to coach in 2009.

He made the announcement now due to rumors to the contrary.

"I would never make any kind of decision without the guys in that room, like my son, knowing first," LeBeau said. "The way they're playing, they're going to have to run me out of here."

The Steelers, who have the 2008 Defensive Player of the Year in James Harrison, have the league's #1-ranked defense in scoring (13.9 ppg) and yards allowed (237.2 ypg).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Hines Ward expected to play in Super Bowl

Both Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin and WR Hines Ward expect Ward to play in Super Bowl XLIII against the Arizona Cardinals.

"We're going to do everything in our power to make sure he gets the medical attention he needs," Tomlin said yesterday at his weekly news conference. "We're definitely not going to count him out. In his mind, he is playing; so chances are, he is."

"We're definitely going to save a seat on the bus for (No.) 86."

"Rain, sleet or snow, I will be there," Ward said.

Ward is one of the toughest players in the NFL. I have no doubt that Ward, who is "aggressively rehabilitating" his sprained right knee, won't be ready to go...or, at least, able to deal with the pain.

In 13 playoff games, Ward has 74 receptions for 1021 yards and 8 TDs.

Ward was MVP of Super Bowl XL in Detroit in 2006. (See list of all Super Bowl MVPs.)

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers to play Cardinals in Super Bowl

The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Baltimore Ravens 23-14 to advance to the Super Bowl to face the Arizona Cardinals, who beat the Philadelphia Eagles this afternoon.

The difference in the game was turnovers. Rookie QB Joe Flacco threw 3 INTs while Ben Roethlisberger didn't throw any.

Willis McGahee, who left the game on a stretcher, was the recipient of a vicious hit by Steelers safety Ryan Clark.

The Steelers have won 5 Super Bowls including Super Bowl XL 3 years ago. This will be the Cardinals first Super Bowl. (See full list of past winners.)

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

NFL's Final Four set

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

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

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

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

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

Chargers likely to face Steelers without Tomlinson

Last week, the Chargers beat the Colts to extend their winning streak to 5 games (regular and post-season). Although LaDainian Tomlinson started the game, the Chargers essentially won the game without Tomlinson.

L.T. carried the ball 5 times for 25 yards and a score, but left the game for good in the 2nd quarter. But Darren Sproles had a huge game finished with 328 all-purpose yards (3rd most ever in a playoff game).

L.T., who has confirmed that he has a torn tendon, is likely to miss the Steelers game on Sunday.

“I don't think anybody can know the frustration,” said Tomlinson, dealing with a debilitating injury for the second straight postseason. “It's tough dealing with it. ... I really sometimes want to go home and stay and lock myself up and not go in public just because all my life all I ever wanted to do was play football. That's all I ever wanted to do, win a championship.

“To feel so helpless, to be at this point where we have a chance to do it and again, I can't do anything about it, I can't play. ... It's like I'm being punished for something, and it's tough to deal with.”

There's been some speculation about the possibility of Tomlinson getting traded in the off-season. I think that's unlikely, but they did fire a head coach that finished a season with a 14-2 record. And there's more loyalty on Desperate Housewives than in the NFL.

“Different things happen,” he said. “With all the talk, no one has come to me and squashed it, so it must be a possibility. I don't know if I'd be surprised or mad. I would feel like I always thought about the loyalty in this league. There is no loyalty. People forget the things you've done, the person you've been, the heart you've shown.”

Michael "The Burner" Turner, last year's back-up to L.T., finished 2nd in the NFL in rushing yards (1699) and TDs (17) in his first season as a starter for the Atlanta Falcons. While Sproles is versatile, dynamic and explosive, I'm not sure that he could withstand the punishment as an every-down back during a 16-game season.

The question for now is how closely can Sproles, who had only 1 carry for no yards against Pittsburgh in November, duplicate last week's performance? It's going to be tough against the NFL's stingiest defense.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 12:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ben Roethlisberger to play vs Chargers

In the Steelers regular-season finale, Ben Roethlisberger was carted off the field and suffered a concussion.

Having passed his final post-concussion test, Big Ben will play Sunday against the San Diego Chargers.

"It's just like when a player comes off a knee surgery or some type of injury," Roethlisberger said. "You can't go out there and play scared or afraid to get hurt. I'm going to go out there and play normal football. If I get hit, I get hit."

There really aren't any "ifs" about it. Roethlisberger will get hit. He has been sacked 46 times this year including 4 times when the Steelers beat the Chargers 11-10. Only Matt Cassel has been sacked more (47 times).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Steelers James Harrison wins Defensive Player of Year

The Pittsburgh Steelers LB James Harrison won the AP Defensive Player of the Year award with a total of 22 votes.

"That's something that everybody in the league would love to have, to be voted the top player in the league for that year," Harrison said. "In my mind, I think I do -- and it's going to sound boring -- what the defense allows me to do and what my teammates allow me to do."

"The defense is built to play with 11 guys, and if all 11 guys are on the same page, playing the same defense on the same play, there's nothing that can go wrong and that's just how we feel about it," Harrison said.

DeMarcus Ware of Dallas finished 2nd with 13 votes followed by Ed Reed of Baltimore (8 votes), Albert Hayneworth of Tennessee (5 votes) and Troy Polamalu of Pittsburgh (2 votes).

The Steelers finished 1st in defensive scoring (13.9 ppg) and total defensive yardage (237.2 ypg). They also finished 1st against the pass (156.9 ypg) and 2nd against the run (80.3 ypg).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 10:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Bill Cowher: "Thanks but no thanks"

Earlier in the week, Adam Schefter of NFL Network / NFL.com said that "no matter what anyone says" that Bill Cowher wasn't going to coach in 2009.

Cowher’s not coming back. Not for the 2009 season. Put that in headlines.

Schefter was right.

Despite being "flattered," Bill Cowher, currently a studio analyst for CBS, says that he won't coach in 2009.

"It's a privilege and an honor to be a head coach in the National Football League," Cowher said. "And I have been flattered about the attention, but the timing right now is not right. I don't plan on coaching next year."

Cowher coached the Steelers from 1992-2006 and had a career record of 149-90-1. [Note: If you weren't aware, games could end in ties.]

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 03:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Bill Cowher to talk to Jets

You've heard the advice before - it's a good idea to interview periodically to keep the skills sharp. That may be all that's happening in New York with Bill Cowher.

After the Jets fired Eric Mangini, the Jets will meet with Cowher.

ESPN is reporting that the Jets would be willing to do "whatever is necessary" to sign Cowher provided Cowher is interested. GM Mike Tannenbaum would be willing to change his role to accomodate Cowher according to the report.

But NFL Network's Adam Shefter isn't buying it.

No matter what anyone says, Bill Cowher is not going to be the New York Jets next head coach.

Cowher’s not coming back. Not for the 2009 season. Put that in headlines.

If I were a Jets fan, I wouldn't hold my breath for Cowher.

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

Playoff seeds - matchups

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

AFC Match-ups (Seed):

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

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

NFC Match-ups (Seed):

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

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

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

Ben Roethlisberger leaves on stretcher

After taking a hard hit from Browns' Willie McGinest and D'Qwell Jackson, Ben Roethlisberger left Heinz Field on a stretcher. He gave the thumbs up as to indicate it's nothing serious.

The Steelers have a first-round bye so Roethlisberger should be ready to go in 2 weeks. The Steelers hold the #2 seed in the AFC.

Before today's game, back-up QB Byron Leftwich has played in parts of 4 games and posted a QB rating of 117.2.

The Steelers passing offense ranks 16th in NFL (207.2 ypg) and their rushing offense ranks an atypically low 24th in the league (100.9 ypg).

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 02:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Week 17 playoff scenarios

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

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

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

AFC Teams:

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

Playoff bound/seed TBD:
none

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

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

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

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

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

San Diego Chargers: same as Denver Broncos.

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

Continue reading "Week 17 playoff scenarios" »

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

Browns QB Bruce Gradkowski to start vs Steelers

Bruce Gradkowski will the fourth QB to start a game for the Cleveland Browns. Lucky for him, his start will be against the league's top-rated defense.

"I'm looking forward to it," he said. "I grew up in Pittsburgh so I know about the rivalry and I always said I'd love to play against the Steelers. I think it's especially even more awesome playing against them in a Browns uniform. You couldn't ask for much more, being here four weeks and getting the start against the best defense in the league."

"When I was younger I was a Steelers fan, but as I got older, I knew this was kind of what I wanted to do and I kind of grew away from it and I was just a football fan in general," he said. "But I still have a lot of cousins that are huge diehards and I told them before I was even with a team I'd love to come back and play the Steelers."

Gradkowski, who graduated from Seton-La Salle Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, will try to lead the Browns to their first offensive touchdown since November 17th.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Terrible Towel Incident

The Titans beat the Steelers 31-14 to earn the top playoff seed and home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs.

During the game, some Titans players stomped on the Steelers' "Terrible Towel" and Jevon Kearse even pretended to blow his nose in it. Titans head coach Jeff Fisher downplayed what the incident meant.

"They don't understand the significance or the meaning of the towel itself to the organization, the Steelers history or the Steelers fans," [Fisher] said. "On one hand, I think they were having fun and just playing with a towel. It was certainly not a shot at the organization or the players or the staff or the fans."

Both teams have earned byes and will each have to win only one home game to meet again for the AFC Championship Game in Nashville.

"When players do things as a result of celebrations, they have to be careful as to not hurt the team," Fisher said.

T.J. "Who's your Momma" Houshmandzadeh wiped his foot with the terrible towel back in 2005 during one of their regular-season matchups. The Steelers beat the Bengals 31-17 in their playoff matchup and won the Super Bowl that season.

Will history repeat itself? Will the Steelers get their revenge? We may soon find out...

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 07:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Patrick Bailey - Steelers rookie of the year?

2008 is the year of the rookie. At least, if you look at what rookies have done so far this year.

Rookie QBs Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco have led the Falcons and Ravens, respectively, to 9-5 records and the 6th seed in their conferences if the season were to end now.

Rookie RBs Chris Johnson, the Titans 1st-round draft pick, has helped lead the Tennessee Titans to the best record in the NFL (12-2). Johnson is 6th in the NFL in rushing with 1159 yards and 8 TDs. The next 2 RBs are rookies as well. Steve Slaton, a 3rd-round pick by Houston, is 7th with 1124 yards and Matt Forte, a 2nd-round pick by Chicago, is 8th with 1115 yards.

At the time of the draft, I thought that Rashard Mendenhall, the Steelers 1st-round pick, was the steal of the first round. But Mendenhall was knocked out for the season in week 4 against the Ravens.

So the Steelers 2008 rookie of the year is...drum roll, please...Patrick Bailey. Who?

Joe Starkey of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review mentions that last year punter Daniel Sepulveda won the award. That class included LaMarr Woodley and Lawrence Timmons as well as other important contributors to the Steelers now. Their rookie contributions were nowhere near what they are now.

So he makes the obvious point that so many people overlook. It's not the rookie year that should be used to evaluate a draft class. To better judge a draft class, you need to hold judgment for a few years.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 09:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

AFC Playoff Picture

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

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

AFC East:

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

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

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

Buffalo Bills (6-8): Eliminated.

Continue reading "AFC Playoff Picture" »

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

A look at the AFC playoff picture

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

Here are the current AFC standings:

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

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

AFC East:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Willie Parker - Questionable against Patriots

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

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

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

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

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 06:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ben Roethlisberger's status unknown for Sunday?

As Ben Roethlisberger's replacement last night, Byron Leftwich filled in admirably. Leftwich completed 7/10 for 129 yards and threw a TD and no INTs.

"He made a lot of friends in there," coach Mike Tomlin said.

"He's an experienced player. He's not new to this," running back Willie Parker said. "Nobody was surprised by how well he came out and played. Ben went down and Byron seamlessly came in and did what he had to do."

Roethlisberger had an MRI on his reinjured shoulder today, but his status is still unknown for Sunday's game vs the Colts.

On the season, Roethlisberger has a 79.6 QB Rating and has thrown 10 TDs to 8 INTs.

Posted by Kevin Hanson at 11:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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