MC’s Week Eight NFL Picks

Last week was a disappointing one for my picks. I talked myself out of picking the Bengals and the Cardinals only to regret that in a big way.

I also thought I was being oh smart and calling a Saints loss. The Saints offense handed the Dolphins a 21 point cushion and the Dolphins offense refused to do what they do best; run the ball and control the clock. Inconceivable!

I also lost the 49ers/Texans game figuring that 49ers had enough time to think about that shellacking they took at home against Atlanta to bounce back but it wasn’t meant to be.

So overall I went 9-4. Not a horrible week but felt close to being a much better week. Now for Week Eight:

Texans (4-3) at Bills (3-4)

I don’t care what the record says; Buffalo is awful, especially with Ryan Fitzpatrick starting. He’s got a bad offensive line in front of him and a mediocre defense on the opposite side. Houston wins this one big.

Houston win 31-10.

Browns (1-6) at Bears (3-3)

The Bears were embarrassed in Cincinnati last week but I expect them to bounce back against a pitiful Browns squad and their pitiful QB Derek Anderson

Bears win 31-10.

Seahawks (2-4) at Cowboys (4-2) 

Dallas dominated the Seahawks at home last Thanksgiving. I expect another great performance from the Cowboys this time around as Marion Barber and Felix Jones continue to get healthy and help the running game.

Rams (0-7) at Lions (1-5)

Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson are expected to play for the Lions and that should be enough against what I think is the worst team in the league.

Lions win 27-17.

49ers (3-3) at Colts (6-0)

Alex Smith finally appears to be healthy as he tore up the Houston Texans secondary in relief for Shaun Hill. It won’t be enough to take down Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts.

Colts win 31-24.

Dolphins (2-4) at Jets (4-2)

Mark Sanchez in the cold? Appreciate the offer but I’ll pass. I got burned by the Bills thanks to this and I won’t let the Dolphins do the same.

Dolphins win 14-7.

Giants (5-2) at Eagles (4-2)

I’m going to assume that Brian Westbrook will be out of action for this one after suffering a concussion in the Monday night match-up against Washington. Philly’s offense struggled to get anything going on offense against Washington outside of two plays from DeSean Jackson and I expect more of the same in this one. The Giants are good enough to take advantage.

Giants win 17-13.

Broncos (6-0) at Ravens (3-3)  

A lot of people love Baltimore in this one and understandably so. They are coming three straight losses and have had two weeks to prepare for Denver.

However, nobody has been able to put up points in the second half so far against Denver I don’t see the Ravens being the exception. Also, everyone is expecting the Ravens defense to right the ship while I honestly don’t think they are elite anymore.

Broncos win 21-13.

Jaguars (3-3) at Titans (0-6)

The Titans have two weeks to think about the 59 point loss in New England and the stunt that Jeff Fisher pulled wearing a Peyton Manning jersey. I think we are gonna see some inspired football as they get their first win against an inconsistent Jaguars squad.

Titans win 21-17.

Raiders (2-5) at Chargers (3-3)

San Diego is a team I have virtually no idea what to expect from week to week. They took care of business last week hammering Kansas City but needed a TD in the last 30 seconds to beat Oakland in Week One. They also were embarrassed early on against Pittsburgh before coming back in the 4th quarter and nearly winning.

Bruce Gradkowski has been sick this week; will we see him or JaMarcus Russell again? I only know only know one thing; I am not picking the Oakland Raiders.

Chargers win 21-14.

Panthers (2-4) at Cardinals (4-2)

Well we definitely weren’t overreacting to the playoff game against Arizona and Week One game against Philadelphia; Jake Delhomme is definitely terrible. Four touchdowns and 13 INTs, Steve Smith is disgruntled, sadly though for Carolina I think Jake is the best they’ve got at the position.

If Arizona really is a SB contender, they will win this game.

Arizona wins 28-17.

Vikings (6-1) at Packers (4-2)

I picked Green Bay before the year to take the North. I want badly to pick them to avenge the Monday night loss in Minnesota. I just don’t have enough faith in their offensive line (especially with Chad Clifton questionable) to make that pick.

Packers win 24-21.

Falcons (4-2) at Saints (6-0)

I thought I was being very clever in picking Miami to beat the Saints. That was a mistake. This time the Saints are at home and not nearly as likely not get up for a division rival game on Monday night. I also quite frankly don’t think the Falcons are that good due to their defense and the off year Michael Turner is having. Saints win big.

Saints win 38-21.

Last week: 9-4

Overall: 72-31

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

MC’s Week Seven NFL Picks

“Not only are the Raiders terrible, but they look uninterested. If the Eagles win by 17 or less in this one my head will explode, that’s not a bluff either. My head really will explode, so don’t let me down Philly.”—Matt Cullen

About that…for those of you concerned, my head is still intact and I’m angry over that game. Not angry at the Eagles, but at myself. The Eagles always do that at least twice a year, go into a game that they are supposed to win and let the opposing team keep it close.

Do not even bother to attempt to establish a running attack and let McNabb drop back 50 times, baiting defenders to line up and take shots at him.

I did not see a Raiders win coming in that one, but perhaps I should have. Regardless, I went 10-4 on my picks once again, now for Week Seven.

 

49ers (3-2) at Texans (3-3)

I was aboard the Texans bandwagon before the season and I like what I have seen the past couple weeks. However, I’m not going to be the guy that picks against a Mike Singletary team that has had two weeks to think about a 35 point loss at home. The 49ers rebound to take this one.

49ers win 24-21.

Packers (3-2) at Browns (1-5)

Two pitiful starts for Derek Anderson in a row, let’s make that three against the Green Bay Packers.

Packers win 27-13.

Chargers (2-3) at Chiefs (1-5)

The San Diego Chargers are soft, and they are not nearly as likely to make a late season comeback to win the AFC West this season. They should take care of business this week on the road in Kansas City…barely.

Chargers win 20-17.

Colts (5-0) at Rams (0-6)

Trap game, schmap game. The Colts will take care of business regardless of whether Bob Sanders finally plays, as the Rams drop their 800th game in a row (slight exaggeration).

Colts win 34-10.

Vikings (6-0) at Steelers (4-2)

Rashard Mendenhall is running pretty well and Troy Polamalu returned to the lineup for the Steelers. The Vikings secondary that was torched by Joe Flacco could very well be without CB Antoine Winfield. All of this adds up to an undefeated team being knocked off on the road.

Steelers win 23-20.

Patriots (4-2) at Buccaneers (0-6)

The Patriots are trying to channel their “Screw everyone else” 2007 mode, they will do a pretty good job of it against an awful Buccaneers’ defense.

Patriots win 42-10.

 

Jets (3-3) at Raiders (2-4)

The Raiders are not quite ready to roll over like people thought they were. Still, I like Mark Sanchez to bounce back in the warmer weather and for the Jets defense to have a big game as they snap their three game losing streak.

Jets win 17-7.

Bills (2-4) at Panthers (2-3)  

Pick Ryan Fitzpatrick on the road against a Panthers team that has won two in a row? That would be madness. Expect a lot of carries for DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart again (combined for 47 last week) as the Panthers climb back to a .500 record.

Panthers win 21-10.

Bears (3-2) at Bengals (4-2)

The loss of DE Antwan Odom should really hurt the Bengals. I expect a Bears offense that committed some bad red zone turnovers against the Atlanta Falcons to take advantage this time.

Bears win 24-17.

Falcons (4-1) at Cowboys (3-2)

I love the Cowboys this week. Two weeks to prepare for this game, Felix Jones should be back, Barber should be healthier, and an increased role for Miles Austin in the offense after they signed Allen Rossum to return kicks.

This will be where the Cowboys start to really pull away from the Redskins for third place in the NFC East (not intended as a backhanded compliment).

Cowboys win 31-24.

Saints (5-0) at Dolphins (2-3)

God help me I like the Dolphins. They have the ability to control the clock and keep opposing offenses off the field and as they showed against the Colts, they have the patience to stick to that plan.

It took a miracle performance from Peyton Manning in the few chances he did get with the ball in addition to a poorly executed two minute drill by the Dolphins for the Colts to steal that one. This one like that one was is in Miami…God help me.

Dolphins win 31-28.

Cardinals (3-2) at Giants (5-1)

You can throw on this Giants secondary. They need to do a better job of getting pressure on Kurt Warner than they did on Drew Brees, which I think they will do to an extent. I was thinking Arizona most of the week, but now I’ve decided that the Giants will bounce back after getting embarrassed against New Orleans and take this one at home. It will be a nail-biter though.

Giants win 28-24.

Eagles (3-2) at Redskins (2-4)  

The worst thing that could have happened to the Washington Redskins would have been for the Eagles to have an embarrassing loss in Oakland leading into this matchup. Philadelphia will respond and win this one big, while we get a couple shots of Jim Zorn in the fetal position on the opposing sideline.

Eagles win 28-10.

 

Last week: 10-4

Overall: 63-27

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

MC’s Week Seven NFL Picks

“Not only are the Raiders terrible, but they look uninterested. If the Eagles win by 17 or less in this one my head will explode, that’s not a bluff either. My head really will explode, so don’t let me down Philly.”—Matt Cullen

About that…for those of you concerned, my head is still intact and I’m angry over that game. Not angry at the Eagles, but at myself. The Eagles always do that at least twice a year, go into a game that they are supposed to win and let the opposing team keep it close.

Do not even bother to attempt to establish a running attack and let McNabb drop back 50 times, baiting defenders to line up and take shots at him.

I did not see a Raiders win coming in that one, but perhaps I should have. Regardless, I went 10-4 on my picks once again, now for Week Seven.

 

49ers (3-2) at Texans (3-3)

I was aboard the Texans bandwagon before the season and I like what I have seen the past couple weeks. However, I’m not going to be the guy that picks against a Mike Singletary team that has had two weeks to think about a 35 point loss at home. The 49ers rebound to take this one.

49ers win 24-21.

Packers (3-2) at Browns (1-5)

Two pitiful starts for Derek Anderson in a row, let’s make that three against the Green Bay Packers.

Packers win 27-13.

Chargers (2-3) at Chiefs (1-5)

The San Diego Chargers are soft, and they are not nearly as likely to make a late season comeback to win the AFC West this season. They should take care of business this week on the road in Kansas City…barely.

Chargers win 20-17.

Colts (5-0) at Rams (0-6)

Trap game, schmap game. The Colts will take care of business regardless of whether Bob Sanders finally plays, as the Rams drop their 800th game in a row (slight exaggeration).

Colts win 34-10.

Vikings (6-0) at Steelers (4-2)

Rashard Mendenhall is running pretty well and Troy Polamalu returned to the lineup for the Steelers. The Vikings secondary that was torched by Joe Flacco could very well be without CB Antoine Winfield. All of this adds up to an undefeated team being knocked off on the road.

Steelers win 23-20.

Patriots (4-2) at Buccaneers (0-6)

The Patriots are trying to channel their “Screw everyone else” 2007 mode, they will do a pretty good job of it against an awful Buccaneers’ defense.

Patriots win 42-10.

 

Jets (3-3) at Raiders (2-4)

The Raiders are not quite ready to roll over like people thought they were. Still, I like Mark Sanchez to bounce back in the warmer weather and for the Jets defense to have a big game as they snap their three game losing streak.

Jets win 17-7.

Bills (2-4) at Panthers (2-3)  

Pick Ryan Fitzpatrick on the road against a Panthers team that has won two in a row? That would be madness. Expect a lot of carries for DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart again (combined for 47 last week) as the Panthers climb back to a .500 record.

Panthers win 21-10.

Bears (3-2) at Bengals (4-2)

The loss of DE Antwan Odom should really hurt the Bengals. I expect a Bears offense that committed some bad red zone turnovers against the Atlanta Falcons to take advantage this time.

Bears win 24-17.

Falcons (4-1) at Cowboys (3-2)

I love the Cowboys this week. Two weeks to prepare for this game, Felix Jones should be back, Barber should be healthier, and an increased role for Miles Austin in the offense after they signed Allen Rossum to return kicks.

This will be where the Cowboys start to really pull away from the Redskins for third place in the NFC East (not intended as a backhanded compliment).

Cowboys win 31-24.

Saints (5-0) at Dolphins (2-3)

God help me I like the Dolphins. They have the ability to control the clock and keep opposing offenses off the field and as they showed against the Colts, they have the patience to stick to that plan.

It took a miracle performance from Peyton Manning in the few chances he did get with the ball in addition to a poorly executed two minute drill by the Dolphins for the Colts to steal that one. This one like that one was is in Miami…God help me.

Dolphins win 31-28.

Cardinals (3-2) at Giants (5-1)

You can throw on this Giants secondary. They need to do a better job of getting pressure on Kurt Warner than they did on Drew Brees, which I think they will do to an extent. I was thinking Arizona most of the week, but now I’ve decided that the Giants will bounce back after getting embarrassed against New Orleans and take this one at home. It will be a nail-biter though.

Giants win 28-24.

Eagles (3-2) at Redskins (2-4)  

The worst thing that could have happened to the Washington Redskins would have been for the Eagles to have an embarrassing loss in Oakland leading into this matchup. Philadelphia will respond and win this one big, while we get a couple shots of Jim Zorn in the fetal position on the opposing sideline.

Eagles win 28-10.

 

Last week: 10-4

Overall: 63-27

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

MC’s NFL Power Rankings After Week Six

Every week that goes by during the NFL season we learn more about each team, I think.

 

The Broncos were a team that got lucky against the Bengals and then merely just beat two bad teams; now they seem primed to get a first round bye.

 

The New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens looked like front runners in the AFC early one; they now each have lost three games in a row and the Jets lost NT Kris Jenkins for the year.

 

The Patriots offense led by Tom Brady were somewhat out of sync and were not going to look like their old selves this season, they just beat the Titans by 59 points…

 

I just got a headache. I’ll just come out with my Week Six power rankings and wait for the inevitable and radical changes. in the coming week.

 

The Arizona Cardinals made the biggest jump in the standings going from 18th to 12. The New York Jets fell the hardest going from 8th to 16th.

 

 

And…here…we…go!

 

 

1. New Orleans Saints- They can throw the ball over the lot (See the Giants and Eagles games), run teams off the field (See the Bills game), and the defense can get scores of their own and win games (See the Jets game). What’s not to love about this team? Previous ranking: 4

 

 

2. Minnesota Vikings- First 6-0 start of Brett Favre’s career but the schedule is starting to get tougher starting with a match-up in Pittsburgh and a rematch with the Packers in Lambeau. Previous ranking: 2

 

 

3. Indianapolis Colts- Expect another 300 yard game for Mr. Peyton Manning at St. Louis next week fresh off a bye. Previous ranking: 3

 

 

4. Denver Broncos- I do a double take nearly every time I see the Broncos on defense after how abysmal they were last year. The Broncos have given up just ten total points all year in the 2nd half. Previous ranking: 5

 

 

5. New York Giants- The Giants in my opinion have a very average secondary that they have been able to get by with because they consistently get a lot of pressure on opposing QBs. The showing they put up against the Saints just won’t do, especially against someone as potent as Drew Brees. Previous ranking: 1

 

 

6. New England Patriots- That 59 point shellacking against the Titans was shades of the 2007 Patriots. That’s certainly not a good sign for the rest of the AFC. Previous ranking: 9

 

 

7. Atlanta Falcons- After delighting fantasy owners last week, RB Michael Turner put up a stink-bomb against the Chicago Bears. Big defensive plays in the red zone however allowed the Falcons to prevail. Previous ranking: 10

 

 

8. Cincinnati Bengals- Cedric Benson looked more like the Cedric Benson of old and on defense they were torched by Matt Schaub and the Houston Texans passing game. There would be no pulling that game out in the last minute. They will also now miss DE Antwan Odom for the rest of the season who had eight sacks already. Previous ranking: 7

 

 

9. Philadelphia Eagles- 60 plays on offense, 46 of them passing plays as the Eagles lost to what had looked like an Oakland Raiders squad without a single redeeming quality on the field. As frustrating as that must be for Eagles fans, it’s not a first from this team. Previous ranking: 6

 

 

10. Pittsburgh Steelers- A 400 yard game this week for Ben Roethlisberger and a QB rating of over 100, Ben is starting to look like a credible fantasy starter again a la the 2007 season. Previous ranking: 13

 

 

11. Green Bay Packers- Even if it was the Lions without Matthew Stafford or Calvin Johnson, the Green Bay Packers finally played like they should have played. They completely shut the down the Lions on offense, controlled the ball for over 40 minutes, and got a stellar game from Aaron Rodgers. Previous ranking: 15

 

 

12. Arizona Cardinals- Kurt Warner lights up another defense, this time without a 2nd half collapse from the Cardinals defense. Previous ranking: 18

 

 

13. Chicago Bears- Two turnovers in the red zone did the Bears in, tough losses in Atlanta back-to-back years now for them. Previous ranking: 12

 

 

14. Dallas Cowboys- The Cowboys got a week off to get rid of the stench from that ugly win in Kansas City. Next week will be tougher as they take on the 4-1 Atlanta Falcons. Previous ranking: 16

 

 

15. San Francisco 49ers- Another team that got an extra week to recover from a bad performance, a 35 point loss at home. Do not expect a repeat performance from this group or Mike Singletary might take off more than his pants. Previous ranking: 17

 

 

16. New York Jets- Once the Bills finally tied it, it was obvious that Thomas Jones would have to break off a huge run or the Jets defense would need a score of their own. I don’t care how many chances Mark Sanchez could have gotten, he wasn’t going to do anything. Previous ranking: 8

 

 

17. Baltimore Ravens – Brutal loss for the Ravens after a great comeback in the 4th quarter. Joe Flacco deserves better. Previous ranking: 11

 

 

18. Houston Texans- That was a big win for the popular preseason sleeper pick, snapping the Bengals four game winning streak as the passing attack went wild. Previous ranking: 20

 

 

19. San Diego Chargers- Hopes for retaining their division crown are getting close to over already. Previous ranking: 14

 

 

20. Miami Dolphins- Congratulations Chad Henne for winning your first two starts in the NFL. Your reward is an extra week to think about the beating your Dolphins will be given at the hands of Drew Brees. Previous ranking: 19

 

 

21. Seattle Seahawks – A 17 point loss at Indianapolis was followed by a 41 point win at home and then a 24 point loss. I have little idea what to think of the 2009 Seattle Seahawks. Previous ranking: 21

 

 

22. Jacksonville Jaguars- I don’t want to seem like the BCS and stress style points, but you can only move up so much after an overtime win against the Rams. Previous ranking: 23

 

 

23. Carolina Panthers- The Carolina Panthers ran the ball, ran the ball, and then ran the ball some more for good measure against the Buccaneers. 48 carries for 267 yards and three TDs in all. They did a fine job of saving Jake Delhomme from himself. Previous ranking: 24

 

 

24. Oakland Raiders- Two interceptions thrown by JaMarcus Russell, but he can at least be happy about completing over 50% of his passes and averaging over ten yards per completion. And a win of course too helps heal past wounds. Previous ranking: 26

 

 

25. Buffalo Bills – This came with a win but for the 2nd straight week the Buffalo Bills were apart of a truly miserable game. In a related story, Terrell Owens punched through his car’s windshield after the game. Previous ranking: 27

 

 

26. Washington Redskin s- Head coach Jim Zorn was stripped of play-calling duties after this most recent loss to a previously win-less team. Does he get a high chair and a pacifier at least? Previous ranking: 22

 

 

27. Detroit Lions- On the bright side, the Lions definitely made the right decision in starting Matt Stafford in the beginning of the year. Whether it was Daunte Culpepper or Drew Stanton in the game there was little positive from the Lions offense on Sunday. Previous ranking: 28

 

 

28. Cleveland Browns- A slightly less miserable performance from Derek Anderson was countered with a much more miserable result. You just can’t expect to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers ever with his numbers. They still move up a spot though thanks to an incredibly awful performance from Tennessee. Previous ranking: 29

 

 

29. Kansas City Chiefs-   Kudos to the Kansas Chiefs for getting their first win of the season after a rough overtime loss the prior week…Even if it came against a team that appears to have forfeited their season. Previous ranking: 30

 

 

30. Tennessee Titans- Jeff Fisher needs a hug, perhaps a few even. Previous ranking: 25

 

 

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers –  Even with the personnel in place, it feels so surreal to see a Jim Bates defense this bad. Previous ranking: 31

 

 

32. St. Louis Rams- Why did Rush Limbaugh even desire owning this team? Previous ranking: 32

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

MC’s Week Three NFL Picks

I am proud to have called the Jets victory over the Patriots but overall I did not fare as well Week Two as I anticipated, going 10-6. Tomorrow’s another week…

 

Redskins (1-1) at Lions (0-2)

Everyone seems to like the Lions this week. I’m not drinking te Kool-Aid, the Redskins do not have an explosive offense. I’m not very concerned that they only scored nine points against the St. Louis Rams. With that defense, facing the Detroit Lions, they will score enough.

Redskins win 20-10.

 

Packers (1-1) at Rams (0-2)

Green Bay’s offensive line is a concern, especially after giving up five sacks last week to Bengals DE Antwan Odom. I still think this is the week that the Green Bay Packers offense breaks out against the hapless St. Louis Rams.

Packers win 31-10.

 

49ers (2-0) at Vikings (2-0)

This my friends is man-football, two of the best running backs in the league and two of the best defenses so far too. Even though Minnesota is at home, I’m going to go with good coaching (Mike Singletary) over bad coaching (Brad Childress).

49ers wins 24-21.

 

Falcons (2-0) at Patriots (1-1)

Only once since 2003 have the New England Patriots lost back to back games. Bill Belichick is going to have them prepared after a tough loss to the Jets and expect a better Tom Brady playing at home and against an inferior defense. I dare you to pick the Falcons…Do it…You’ll be sorry.

Patriots win 31-24.

 

Titans (0-2) at Jets (2-0)

With every loss for the Tennessee Titans there is increased pressure to put in Vince Young. I don’t put much blame on Kerry Collins for the 0-2 start but this is a big game for him and the Tennessee Titans looking to avoid going 0-3. I have a man-crush on Rex Ryan though, I’m taking the Jets to go 3-0.

Jets win 17-13.

 

Chiefs (0-2) at Eagles (1-1)

I think last week said much more about how good Drew Brees is and the Saints passing attack than it did about potential flaws in the Eagles secondary. Matt Cassel may look better making his second start coming off an ankle injury but not much. Kevin Kolb wins, who would have thought it?

Eagles 24-13.

 

Giants (2-0) at Buccaneers (0-2)

Last week watching the way the Bills passing game looked confirmed it; Tampa Bay’s defense is terrible with a capital “T.” Expect the Giants to win fairly easily and remain undefeated.

Giants win 31-17.

 

Browns (0-2) at Ravens (2-0)

The Ravens secondary is not what it used to be but the offense has been what is winning games. This makes for a good matchup against the Cleveland Browns but then again nearly anytime a team matches up against them it is a good match-up for that team. If I miss this one, my head’s gonna explode.

Ravens win 31-10.

 

Jaguars (0-2) at Texans (1-1)

I thought the Jaguars were a little better than people thought coming into this year. It appears that I may have been wrong. To say that the Arizona Cardinals passing game dominated last Sunday would be an understatement…To say that the Houston Texans’ passing game won’t too is just foolish.

Texans win 31-21.

 

Bears (1-1) at Seahawks (1-1)

Seahawks head coach Jim Mora says that it’s extremely unlikely that QB Matt Hasselbeck will play in this one, I think that’s the difference.

Bears win 21-14.

 

Saints (2-0) at Bills (1-1)

So Drew Brees needs 42 more passing TDs to become the single-season record holder. Ok I of course am not expecting him to threaten that record this week but I’m excited to watch him go to work on the Buffalo Bills secondary.

Saints win 52-28.

 

Steelers (1-1) at Bengals (1-1)

Cedric Benson was huge for the Bengals last week running for 108 yards, it’s hard to imagine he will do that against this Pittsburgh Steelers defense. For me this is one of the most intriguing games of the week. Cincinnati is bad deflection away from being 2-0 and the Steelers have not been able to generate a running game of their own.

I’m going to give the nod to the defending champs to rebound after a loss in Chicago.

Steelers win 20-17.

 

Broncos (2-0) at Raiders (1-1)

It’s time for the Oakland Raiders to start looking for another QB of the future. I’ve never been a fan of Russell but last weeks game sealed it. The difference between this game and Oakland’s last game with Kansas City is that Kyle Orton won’t turn the ball over like Matt Cassel. And the Denver Broncos much to everyone’s surprise will start off 3-0.

Broncos win 17-10.

 

Dolphins (0-2) at Chargers (1-1)

At what point during the season will the real San Diego Chargers show up? Not yet I don’t think, the wildcat was especially effective last year for the Dolphins when they faced San Diego. I’m not a fan of this Dolphins team but I’m going to go with the upset.

Dolphins win 28-24.

 

Colts (2-0) at Cardinals (1-1)

The toughest game of the week for me to pick. My psychic powers tell me to expect a lot of scoring in this one. Even after just watching Peyton Manning absolutely steal one on Monday night against Miami I think the Cardinals have one too many play-makers on offense.

Cardinals win 35-31.

 

Panthers (0-2) at Cowboys (1-1)

Marion Barber is expected to be a game time decision but even if he sees just limited action or none at all, the Cowboys running game should not suffer much having Felix Jones and Tashard Choice.

They ran for over 250 yards against one of the best front sevens in football in the New York Giants and I expect them to have another big week. Plus, what better medicine for a defense with no turnovers than to face Jake Delhoumme.

Cowboys win 31-17.

 

Last Week: 10-6

Overall: 22-10

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

The Day the New York Jets Punched the Bully in the Mouth

“Rex Ryan has the defense heading in the right direction but their starting QB will not only be a rookie but one that started only 16 games in college. Laveranues Coles is gone, Chris Baker is gone too ,which means Dustin Keller will be less of a receiving threat and used more to block.

“Thomas Jones is now 31-years old and before Brett Favre showed up he rushed for just 3.6 YPC in 2007. The Jets potentially will have one of the worst offense in the league.”

– Bleacher Report “Analyst” Matt Cullen.

 

There is a big mistake that football fans consistently make every single year; they think they have any idea what is going to happen. People make mistakes on predictions before the season and they make mistakes by jumping on or off a bandwagon too early in a season as opposed to sticking to their guns.

However, I have a prediction that I would like to take back. A profuse apology to Mark Sanchez, to Rex Ryan, to Thomas Jones, and while I am at it I apologize to the entire New York Jets team.

I was wrong about the New York Jets, dead wrong. I am drinking the Rex Ryan Kool-Aid.

Regardless of what the Miami Dolphins do tonight against the Indianapolis Colts, two weeks into the season and the New York Jets are in sole possession of 1st place in the AFC East.

Mark Sanchez, the rookie QB from USC looks like the pro-style offense he was apart of in college has done well in getting him prepared. Very solid numbers for a rookie, 435 total passing yards in two games with two TDs, one INT, and a QB rating of 91.3.

That current QB rating is 10th in the league. Jerricho Cotchery, Chansi Stuckey, and Dustin Keller all have made solid contributions in the receiving game with a combined 25 catches, 394 receiving yards and a defense.

Remember that aging RB named Thomas Jones? He had over 100 yards rushing in Week One against the Houston Texans who I think have a pretty good front seven. Jones and Leon Washington have paired well together in the first two games averaging just under 140 YPG on the ground in the first two match-ups.

And while it is encouraging how well the rookie QB is playing and how strong the running game is, the key has been the defense. Not only second in PPG allowed and YPG allowed, they have done it against two of the best offenses in the NFL.

The New York Jets defense has a new attitude and a new energy, absolutely bumrushing first Matt Schaub and now Tom Brady. Lots of blitzing, offensive lines bewildered, and QBs in panic.

As a collective unit, the New York Jets only have two total sacks on the year but the sacks total hardly tells the story. Both QBs have had hands in their face, gotten hurried out of the pocket, and gotten battered and bruised.

Newcomers to the defense such as ILB Bart Scott, CB Lito Sheppard, and SS Jim Leonhard are making immediate impacts. Derrelle Revis appears to be turning into one of the best corners in the league and the unit is also getting good contributions from FS Kerry Rhodes, ILB David, NT Kris Jenkins and many others.

Yesterday’s game in particular stood out because of who they played and circumstances attached to the game. The New England Patriots have dominated the AFC East since the beginning of the decade. In 2007 they had an offensive season that could only be described as historic.

With QB Tom Brady back in the lineup, the New England Patriots have virtually the same offense as that 2007 offense. Out are WRs Donte Stallworth and Jabar Gaffney but in are RB Fred Taylor and WR Joey Galloway.

If this wasn’t enough, the New York Jets did the unthinkable and talked trash before the game. FS Kerry Rhodes said that the Jets wanted to embarrass the New England Patriots. This historically always ends poorly, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick beats every little snippet that could possibly be perceived as trash-talk or disrespectful into the ground, putting the New England Patriots in a frenzy.

In 2007 the San Diego Chargers had some fun with the Spygate controversy right before their Week Two matchup against the New England Patriots. The San Diego Chargers, best record in the AFC the season before, got clobbered at home against the Pats 38-14.

Later that season Pittsburgh Steelers FS Anthony Smith predicted victory against the undefeated New England Patriots only to see Tom Brady target him relentlessly when he was on the field as the New England Patriots lit up the scoreboard against one of the best defense of the league, winning that game 34-13.

Before Super Bowl XXXIX, Philadelphia Eagles WR Freddie Mitchell didn’t know the names of opposing players in the New England Patriots secondary, he probably found out later as he was a complete non-factor in the game with just one catch for 11 yards. The Eagles would lose that game and Mr. Mitchell and his mouth wouldn’t play another down in an NFL game.

You get the point the track record is bad, the New York Jets had just written their suicide note. They then proceeded to look at the note and smirk, and then smack the New England Patriots upside the head in a 16-9 battle.

Tom Brady had a small stretch in the 2nd quarter where it looked like he might be solving the New York Jets defense. He never did figure that out, completing less than 50% of his passes with one INT and a QB rating of 53.1. Sunday’s game marked the first time since 2006 that the New England Patriots failed to score an offensive TD.

Randy Moss was held to four catches for just 24 yards and Ben Watson had three catches for 23 yards. Joey Galloway did a little better with five catches for 53 yards and Julian Edelman did his best Wes Welker impersonation with eight catches and nearly 100 receiving yards but not enough to put any noticeable chink in the armor of the New York Jets defense.

We were reminded one thing on Sunday and learned another; we got to see Bill Belichick struggle to make eye contact when shaking hands after the game again, and that the Patriots will be in an absolute dogfight trying to reclaim the AFC East.

The Patriots were given one last shot to score a game-tying TD with less than two minutes to go, 90 yards to go. If I wasn’t interesting in seeing the Jets reactions after the game I would have changed the channel, because there was no doubt in my mind that the game was over.

The Jets did what the Buffalo Bills could not…Close. Coffee is for closers only and the Jets knew that.

The New England Patriots giant leash over the rest of the AFC East has been ripped off and they appear to have at least one fearsome foe in the division for years to come.

The New York Jets appear to have improved drastically in defense, drastically at head coach, and they no longer have an aging QB that will physically collapse in the final five games of the season.

Everything about the 2009 New York Jets screams SB contenders, everything about Mark Sanchez seems to scream franchise QB, and everything about Rex Ryan seems to hint that the take-off on the Chuck Norris jokes when he was hired seems more valid than we originally thought.

And somewhere out there in his home, Fireman Ed is ecstatic as can be.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

MC’s Week Two NFL Picks

Alright so my chances of 256-0 are officially over but you know what can happen? 252-4 can happen!

I ended up going 12-4 on my picks, senselessly changing my mind to the Redskins over the Giants as I was writing my article. I’m hoping to fare even better this week. So without further ado, here are my Week Two picks:

 

Panthers (0-1) at Falcons (1-0)

Solely based on their Week One results, this one almost seems too easy. Jake Delhoumme has become a very big question mark at QB to say the least. It’s not time to give up on him yet because they did win 12 games last year and I think he legitimately is the best they have on the depth chart. That being said, the Carolina Panthers will be starting off 0-2.

Falcons win 31-17.

 

Vikings (1-0) at Lions (0-1)

What more could possibly needed to be said about the Detroit Lions that has not been said? Matthew Stafford threw three INT’s in his debut against what is a much inferior New Orleans Saints defence, compared to the Minnesota Vikings.

Adrian Peterson should continue to run wild and Brett Favre should have another solid game. Honestly, even though the Vikings are on the road, if I get this one wrong my head will explode.

Vikings win 28-10.

 

Bengals (0-1) at Packers (1-0)

Both teams have potentially explosive offenses that had disappointing Week One games statistically. Difference is that Green Bay was facing a tough division rival and a good defense in the Chicago Bears. The Bengals were facing one of the worst defenses in the league last year in the Denver Broncos.

I still think the Bengals will make some noise in the AFC but with Carson Palmer missing much of the preseason with an ankle injury, it’s going to take longer for that offense to start clicking than I originally thought.

Packers win 28-17.

 

Texans (0-1) at Titans (0-1)

Tennessee’s defense had a better opening week than I anticipated. I’m not sold on Kyle Vanden Bosch staying healthy but they should continue to soar and beat the Houston Texans in their home-opener.

Titans win 21-10.

 

Raiders (0-1) at Chiefs (0-1)

This is the “I have no clue who to pick” game, I liked Oakland a little more before the season but might we see a little Monday night hangover due to a tough loss? Kansas City’s offense looked pretty solid against the Ravens even without Matt Cassel. Ultimately I’m giving the nod to the home team.

Chiefs win 24-21.

 

Patriots (1-0) at New York Jets (1-0)

Tom Brady proved against the Buffalo Bills that he is either not quite 100 percent healthy yet or he is not mentally ready. He completed a lot of passes but wouldn’t take chances down-field even with all of the talent at WR.

I thought Rex Ryan would do great things in New York, but I thought it would be a year away due to starting a rookie QB. I am officially a believer in the J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS!

Jets win 27-24.

 

Saints (1-0) at Eagles (1-0)

I’ve got two words for you: Kevin Kolb. I’m sorry for not writing more but that’s really all I need to know.

Saints win 27-14.

 

Rams (0-1) at Redskins (0-1)

As putrid as the Detroit Lions are, the St. Louis Rams are nearly as bad. The Rams in fairness actually defeated the Redskins last season but that came directly after changing head coaches, this worked for about three games before the Rams slipped back into obscurity.

The Redskins offense is not explosive enough to turn this game into a laugh-er but they should win.

Redskins win 21-13.

 

Cardinals (0-1) at Jaguars (0-1)

Before the season I would not have expected the defending NFC Champions to start off 0-2. But West Coast teams do not fare well playing the morning game on the East Coast. The Cardinals are no exception. This includes losses last year to the Patriots by 40 and the Jets by 21. The Jaguars put up a good game against the Colts and I expect the same here with better results.

Jaguars win 21-17.

 

Seahawks (1-0) at 49ers (1-0)

It’s sometimes hard to tell early in the season just who’s who. After the 49ers, much to my surprise, went into Arizona and beat the NFC champs, I do not have much of an idea who to pick here either. I’m going to with the home-field advantage again.

49ers win 21-20.

 

Buccaneers (0-1) at Bills (0-1)

I sense some possible Monday night hangover from the Buffalo Bills much like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Also, the Buccaneers offense seems to be better than expected with Cadillac Williams running hard and the offensive line protecting Byron Leftwich well.

Buccaneers win 23-21.

 

Ravens (1-0) at Chargers (1-0)

One of the most intriguing games of the week. The Chargers did not look very convincing in beating what was supposed to be the hapless Oakland Raiders. The Baltimore Ravens defense did not look as good as expected against the Brodie Croyle led Kansas City Chiefs.

As highly acclaimed as the Baltimore Ravens’ defense has been, this unit can be thrown on. Phillip Rivers’ had a breakout season last year and has not lost any weapons to throw to.

Chargers win 31-21.

 

Steelers (1-0) at Bears (0-1)

As electrifying as Troy Polamalu is, the absence of Brian Urlacher is a bigger loss for the Bears than Troy Polamalu is for the Steelers. Expect the Jay Cutler led Chicago Bears to drop to 0-2 as doubt continues to seep in to the minds of Bears fans all around the city.

Steelers win 20-14.

 

Browns (0-1) at Broncos (1-0)

I expect the Denver Broncos to be pitted in yet another extremely low scoring affair. I’ll give the benefit of the doubt to the home-field advantage again.

Broncos win 13-10.

 

Giants (1-0) at Cowboys (1-0)

Granted I’m biased, but this to me is the game of the week.

Once upon a time, back when Tony Romo was dating Carrie Underwood, the Dallas Cowboys defense was exposed late in the 2006 season after Greg Ellis got hurt. Teams were able to key on DeMarcus Ware and nobody was able to step up and pressure the opposing QB.

Fast-forward to last week, Greg Ellis is now on the Oakland Raiders and the Cowboys struggled to pressure the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Do the New York Giants have the personnel to expose the Dallas Cowboys lack of pass rush? I’m not so sure but this could be a problem for the Cowboys in the future.

Who to pick…Who to pick…Who to pick…Reverse jinx!

Giants win 27-24.

 

Colts (1-0) at Dolphins (0-1)

After going 11-5 last season on a cupcake schedule, the Miami Dolphins are the team with the most to prove after a rough Week One showing. I did not like this team before the season and nothing has happened to change my mind. The Colts looked less than spectacular against the Jacksonville Jaguars but the Jaguars have a history of playing them tough.

Colts win 24-14.

 

Last Week: 12-4

Overall: 12-4

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

The Dallas Cowboys’ Top 10 Most Likely Scenarios to End Their Season

Nobody is more excited than me for the return of America’s new pastime in the form of the National Football League.

There are many storylines and many reasons to be excited, Michael Vick is back, Tom Brady is too, Carson Palmer and Matt Hasselbeck are also reportedly healthy.

The Steelers are looking to repeat and make a claim for team of the decade, Dan Snyder is still throwing a lot of money around hoping it sticks, and the Oakland Raiders are still run by a man that rubs poop on the walls of his office and loves those good 40 times.

And there are three things though that we have been able to count on for years now; the Arizona Cardinals are a joke…Check that, two things we have been able to count on for years now. The Colts winning 12 games and the Dallas Cowboys tripping over their shoelaces in December.

Seriously, for a team with a reputation of attracting more than the average amount of bandwagon fans the Cowboys have done little in recent memory to warrant such popularity. No playoff wins since I was six years old and a knack for not just losing but losing in incredibly memorable ways and when the games matter the most, in December.

Last season’s Week 17 game at Philadelphia was so shocking, so embarrassing, and so twistedly comical that my reaction to it all was to laugh manically about midway through the 3rd Quarter and attempt to make jokes for the rest of the game and then feel sick up until the Super Bowl. I can’t even imagine what it was like being a Red Sox fan after the 2003 ALCS. Here are the three likely scenarios of my reaction to Game 7 of that series-

-Driving into the desert before abandoning my car and walking around aimlessly for the rest of my days.

-Getting arrested for being liquored up and cutting off the heads of parking meters.

-Stop watching Baseball.

So Dallas Cowboys, you are officially on notice! 85 years passed between the Red Sox 1918 World Series title and that ALCS. That leaves you with 74 more years to bring me some joy or I may stop watching football. No point in trying to talk me out of it, I’ve made up my mind.

As far as the 2009 Dallas Cowboys, it would be foolish to completely rule them out even without Terrell Owens. Tony Romo missed three games last season with a broken pinkie and was roughed up quite a bit near the end of the season, he starts this season healthy. Roy Williams should be better with more time adjusted to the offense, they have three good RBs they can rely on, and the defense did play better after Wade Phillips took over calling plays on defense.

But am I picking them? Of course not, I’m going to do the best I can to not get my hopes up again as history has shown me they will suffer a few more stomach punching losses. Especially when the December schedule features games at the Giants, San Diego, at New Orleans, at Washington, and then Philadelphia once again for the final game of the season.

Trying to give me a heart attack before the season even begins I see, it will not work! I will be ready for the collapse whenever it comes, but how will it come? Well, maybe the recipe is to exhaust all the strangest and most horrifying possiblities and who knows…Maybe life will give Dallas Cowboys fans a surprise.

So I’ve come up with this list of ten bizzarre scenarios that end with the Dallas Cowboys going home with their heads down. Hopefully in January I can laugh over this as the Dallas Cowboys end up surprising me in January but I’m not counting on it.

Begin Slideshow

MC’s Week One NFL Picks

I find myself forced to Tivo the Thursday Night Game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Tennessee Titans due to work, but don’t think I’m missing a second of it when I get home.

The return of the NFL makes me look like Cuba Gooding Jr. after winning an Oscar for Jerry Maguire. Enough about my Brett Favre like enthusiasm for the game of football, here’s a quick rundown of each of the Week One matchups:

 

Tennessee at Pittsburgh

The AFC Championship game last year between Pittsburgh and Baltimore excited a lot of football enthusiasts and with the physical style of both teams, it was sometimes referred to as “man football”, on paper this matchup arguably deserves that same title. Gone is DT Albert Haynesworth, an unstoppable force in the Titans’ defensive line, but to be fair the Titans did beat the Steelers in Week 16 last season 31-14 without Haynesworth.

That game was in Tennessee, but this meeting will take place in Pittsburgh, and I do not expect a repeat. I expect the Steelers to come out with a lot of energy in their regular season opener as the champs and make a statement.

I also believe with an aging Jevon Kearse and an injury prone Kyle Vanden Bosch on the defensive line, that the Titans’ defense has the potential to be just average this year after being one of the top units last year. They should be able to put a decent amount of pressure on a shaky offensive line, but in the end, I expect the Super Bowl Champions to start the year off the right way.

The Steelers win 23-13.

 

Miami at Atlanta

Miami has trouble pressuring the QB and with the weapons Matt Ryan has along with Michael Turner carrying the ball, I expect the Atlanta Falcons to score early and often. The Dolphins will be forced to play catch up and this is where a pass rusher like John Abraham (16.5 sacks last season) is at his most dangerous.

Matt Ryan’s sophomore campaign should start as well as anyone could hope for.

The Falcons win 35-17.

 

Philadelphia at Carolina

To say that the Philadelphia Eagles have speed on offense is insulting to them. They are going to be very fun to watch this year.

Westbrook did not play at all during preseason due to an ankle injury so that is concerning, but the Carolina Panthers’ defense leaves a lot to be desired. Plus Jake Delhomme is good for about 15 INT’s against that secondary…OK, maybe not, but I do think that Philly will be able to pull it out against a team that was nearly unbeatable at times last season.

The Eagles win 28-24.

 

Denver at Cincinnati

While people were calling for the head of Cincinnati Bengals’ head coach Marvin Lewis, the once defensive guru for the Baltimore Ravens quietly built up the 12th ranked defense in the league last year.

Carson Palmer is back under center and Chad Johnson’s (not Ochocinco’s) ankle is 100 percent. I don’t think the Denver Broncos are quite as bad as people think, but I do not think this game will be that close.

The Bengals win 27-10.

 

Minnesota at Cleveland

If Minnesota was looking to start hot like the New York Jets did with Brett Favre, they landed the right opponent in Week One. I think the Cleveland Browns are the worst team in the AFC with a dreadful defense, aging RB, and an expected decline in the passing game with Kellen Winslow Jr. traded and Donte Stallworth suspended for the season.

Favre still has not been with the Vikings for that long, so I’m betting on a six TD game a la the Arizona Cardinals game last year. However, I am expecting more than enough to beat the…hold your nose…Cleveland Browns.

The Vikings win 30-10.

 

New York Jets at Houston Texans

The one thing that I don’t believe Brett Favre got enough credit for during his brief stay in New York was the resurgence of Thomas Jones. In comparing his stats from 2007, Thomas Jones rushed for nearly 200 more yards, 13 more total TD’s, and nearly an entire more yard per carry with 20 fewer carries. Jones is now 31 years old and now has a rookie at QB.

Are we more likely to see the 2007 Thomas Jones or the 2008 Thomas Jones?

I am definitely going with the 2007 Jones, and if the Leon Washington or Shonn Greene are not ready to step up as a full-time back, the Jets may have the worst offense in the league.

The popular sleeper pick in the Houston Texans’ victory, 24-9.

 

Jacksonville at Indianapolis Colts

A very underrated matchup as the Jacksonville Jaguars even in a bad season continued to play the Indianapolis Colts very tough.

Regardless, the reigning MVP Peyton Manning will continue to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, like he often did last season, and start the Colts’ season off the right way.

The Colts win 27-24.

 

Detroit at New Orleans

Speaking of holding your nose…what about the Detroit Lions?

Some people will try to look smart and attempt to correctly predict the Lions’ first win. I’m sure not going to pick it here, on the road, against the incredibly explosive New Orleans Saints.

The Saints win 45-17.

 

Kansas City at Baltimore

The Kansas City Chiefs appear to be heading in the right direction with the change in management, but they will not reap the benefits on the field this season. The defense still needs a lot of work and they may be without starting QB Matt Cassell. The Ravens’ defense is getting older, but regardless I expect them to beat up the Chiefs in the season opener.

The Ravens win 24-13.

 

Dallas at Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is in a rebuilding mode on both offense and defense. The Dallas Cowboys’ passing game might be less explosive without Terrell Owens, but with three strong RB’s they don’t need much in Week One.

The Cowboys win 34-10.

 

San Francisco at Arizona

Mike Singletary seems to have the makings of a great coach, but it will only go so far with what appears to be not a ton of talent on either side of the ball. Kurt Warner is 38 years old, but it’s hard to imagine him all of a sudden failing in that offense.

The Cardinals win 31-20.

 

St. Louis at Seattle

Seattle still has no running game, but expect the offense, as a whole, to look a lot better with the addition of TJ Houshmandzadeh, not to mention, they are healthy now.

Even with a healthy Steven Jackson, the St. Louis Rams have one of the thinnest rosters in the league.

Seahawks win 27-17.

 

Washington at New York Giants

More “man football?” You have got it here with two of the best defenses in the league and offenses led by physical running backs in Brandon Jacobs and Clinton Portis.

I am going on the record saying Portis will break down more severely than he appeared to at the end of last year, but for Week One, he should be fine. The Giants are my SB pick in the NFC, but in this early matchup I think Washington lands the last punch due to their edge in the receiving game with Santana Moss, Antwaan Randle El, and Chris Cooley.

The Redskins win 16-13.

 

Chicago at Green Bay

The city of Chicago is like a kid in a candy store at the sight of a gunslinger like Jay Cutler. However, he does not have the playmakers on offense to go toe-to-toe with what I feel is one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL.

The Packers win 34-24.

 

Buffalo at New England

Tom Brady’s long awaited return is finally here and he has more even more toys to play with in the likes of Joey Galloway and Fred Taylor at RB.

Aaron Schobel is back which should mean an improvement from the Bills’ below average pass rush, Marshawn Lynch is out though, which means added pressure on the Buffalo Bills’ passing game to match the Patriots.

Does anyone think that’s going to happen? Anyone? Bueller?

The Patriots win 38-24.

 

San Diego at Oakland

Shawne Merriman is back and Jay Cutler cried his way to Chicago, is there any way the San Diego Chargers could possibly blow becoming division champion?

In a word, no. The Oakland Raiders will be able run the ball on them, but there is just too much talent on the Chargers’ roster.

The Chargers win 27-20.

 

I am excited for another great football season, and I am looking forward to going 512-0 on my picks again. Yes, I went 512-0 last season. Yes, I called the Eagles-Bengals tie. Don’t believe me? You can’t prove I didn’t, so shove off.

Enjoy the week!

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

MC’s NFL Power Rankings Pre-Week 1

I have to admit I am still a little sore after that Dallas/Philadelphia, game but football is upon us and you can’t keep a football addict down forever. College football is nice, but quite frankly, the pros and a playoff system are nice.

I’m not pulling any punches here, I will make an impact with this! I’ve just about had it to here with Googling myself and the only results that show up are from that stupid Hockey player on the Carolina Hurricanes. I know, you don’t care, so I’ll stop taking up space. Here are my rankings for every NFL team from best to worst:

 

1. Pittsburgh Steelers- The offensive line is still an issue, but then again, this is coming from the same guy who said proclaimed that the Pittsburgh Steelers were not a Super Bowl contender last year after their Week 16 loss to the Tennessee Titans, so what do I know? With a healthy Willie Parker and a surprisingly easy schedule, expect the Champs to earn another first round bye.

2. New York Giants- After seeing Eli Manning and the New York Giants falter down the stretch and in the playoffs, people have been questioning the Giants passing attack and wondering whether it meant that it was the Eagles turn to take the NFC East. Then to make matters worse…David Tyree was cut!

Oh yeah and Plaxico Burress is now gone too. I have faith though, lets not forget that the Giants losses at the end of the season came to two talented division rivals in must-win situations (Eagles and Cowboys) as well as to another talented team in a must-win situation in the Minnesota Vikings.

The Giants will still have one of the best running games in football and with Osi Umenyiora back and the acquisitions of Chris Canty, Michael Boley, and Rocky Bernard they will have one of the best defenses, too. That will win games when the weather gets cold.

3. San Diego Chargers- They’ve been a sexy pick in the AFC the last couple years and haven’t quite lived up to the billing. However, with a healthy Merriman, Chris Chambers, and a potential bounce back year from LT…I don’t see how they could possibly blow it in that division.

4. Philadelphia Eagles- I don’t trust Westbrook enough to stay healthy for the whole season to make them my pick to win the East but as long as he is healthy when January rolls around they can run the table. There are no weaknesses in sight.

5. New England Patriots- The offensive line that gave up the fifth most sacks in the league last year has to be somewhat of a concern but the New England Patriots have so many play-makers on offense anyway that they will be a nightmare for defensive coordinators regardless.

6. Green Bay Packers- Switching to the 3-4 on defense has to be somewhat concerning but they had so many injuries last season that on paper they should be better regardless, plus I have faith in Dom Capers. Aaron Rodgers silenced critics last season and with more experience I expect him to start winning a lot of those close games that he lost last season.

7. Indianapolis Colts- Marvin Harrison was on his last leg last season, Joseph Addai and Bob Sanders had trouble staying healthy, the offensive line had injury problems, Peyton Manning was recovering from knee surgery, and they played in one of the toughest divisions in Football…So how in the world did they win 12 games last season?

The now three-time MVP Peyton Manning pulled out game after game for them. We are watching truly a special player and until further notice I will never doubt the Colts chances of making the playoffs.

8. Minnesota Vikings-The schedule gives the Vikings a good chance to win at least four of five games to begin the season. Favre’s shoulder is a concern as the season goes on, but I believe the Vikings will not collapse the way the New York Jets did due to their fine due to their running game, defense, and also due to the fact that Favre is now throwing in a dome instead of the cold and windy Meadowlands.

A Super Bowl appearance may not be in the cards for the Vikings, but they’ll be glad that Brett Favre finally decided to show up.

9. Houston Texans- I hate to make this pick just because it feels so cliched at this point so say ‘Whoa, watch out for the Texans’, but if Matt Schaub stays healthy this really does feel like it a winning formula. Schaub is blessed without a lot of talent around him like Steve Slaton, Andre Johnson, Kevin Walter, and Owen Daniels.

Their secondary is shaky but their front seven should actually be really good acquiring Antonio Smith to line up opposite Mario Williams on the line and also Cato June at linebacker.

10. Baltimore Ravens- Former GM and current columnist Michael Lombardi was on an ESPN Podcast talking about the effect that the hard-nosed head coach John Harbaugh has had on the Baltimore Ravens.

The comments he brought up from a variety of players he talked to has me convinced that there is no chance of a let-down this year and that their ‘aging’ defense is going to be just as scary this season.

11. New Orleans Saints- Speaking of special players, Drew Brees threw for over 5,000 yards with 34 TDs and 17 INTs. The 5,000+ yards was easily first in the league, the TDs were tied for first with Phillip Rivers and he also had the fourth highest QB rating in 96.2. All of this without much of a running game and Reggie Bush, Marques Colston, and Jeremy Shockey missing significant time.

All of those receiving threats are healthy and the running game should be better with Pierre Thomas getting more carries. The defense still isn’t very good but it should be better with Charles Grant and Will Smith healthy, and good enough to take the NFC South.

12. Dallas Cowboys- Dallas’ SB shots are not over, but there needs to be a stronger commitment to the running game than in the past and Kyle Kozier’s health is a necessity.

13. Cincinnati Bengals- Shh…The Cincinnati Bengals defense ranked 12th in the league last year in YPG. They are far from the joke of a defense they once were, Carson Palmer is healthy and Chad Johnson’s (Will not call him Ochocinco) ankle should be fine. The Bengals will be playing meaningful Football games deep into December.

14. Arizona Cardinals- Super Bowl Loser Curse, Super Bowl Loser Shmurse. Even a year older it’s hard to imagine that the Cardinals passing game still won’t be prolific with Kurt Warner behind center. Even without Antonio Smith, the defense is not as bad as people think loaded with talent in the secondary like Adrian Wilson, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, Antrel Rolle, and newly acquired Bryant McFadden.

15. Atlanta Falcons- Tony Gonzalez was a move they needed to make but even still I expect Matt Ryan to fall of a little in his sophomore year, Michael Turner is somewhat of a concern after hitting the 370 mark in carries his first year starting and the defense is sub-par.

16. Chicago Bears- Jay Cutler has a cannon of an arm but he showed to have a tendency to turn the ball over throwing 18 INTs. He is in a new offense with a considerable drop-off in offensive weapons to work with and the defense is not as good as in years past.

Bears fans legitimately do have a prolific thrower but they may need to wait a year before they really reap the benefits.

17. Tennessee Titans- The Tennessee Titans will seriously regret the day that they let Albert Haynesworth bolt to the nation’s capital. More attention will be paid to Kyle Vanden Bosch and if he fails yet again to stay healthy, the Titans may struggle to get a decent pass rush with an old Jevon Kearse.

It took an incredibly hot start for them to leave Kerry Collins in as the starting QB and if they struggle at all out of the gate, the itch for youth in Vince Young may start to get scratched.

18. Washington Redskins- Overpaid perhaps but I like the Albert Haynesworth signing, I really do. The Redskins desperately needed help rushing the passer, Haynesworth showed himself in the last couple years to be unblockable when motivated and he will open things up for Andre Carter on the end who had double-digit sacks in 2007.

What I don’t like is the odds of Clinton Portis staying healthy. His numbers dropped off considerably in the last five games of last season.

Portis is now 28 years old and has had 340+ carries in each of the last five years, there does not appear to be a quality back-up plan in case this is the year he falls off. Playing in the NFC East doesn’t help their cause either.

19. Carolina Panthers- Here’s a prediction for you; Jake Delhomme won’t get the chance to murder the Carolina Panthers in the playoffs. He will benched somewhere around Thanksgiving, with him will go their playoff chances.

20. Seattle Seahawks- It was comical last season how many injuries they suffered on the offensive side of the ball. Matt Hasselbeck appears to be healthy and he also will be working with as good of a wide-out as he has ever had in TJ Houshmandzadeh (Houshmazzilli as I prefer to call him). They still did not address the running game though and the defense is on the decline.

21. Jacksonville Jaguars- If you believe Fred Taylor’s comments from last season, Jack Del Rio lost this locker room. I’ve always greatly respected the man but he is officially on the hot seat. That said, the offensive line is healthy and even at 33 year old Tory Holt is the best wide-out David Garrard has had to throw to in the last couple years so they will be better. Playing in the AFC South doesn’t help though.

22. New York Jets-Rex Ryan has the defense heading in the right direction but their starting QB will not only be a rookie but one that started only 16 games in college. Laveranues Coles is gone, Chris Baker is gone too which means Dustin Keller will be less of a receiving threat and used more to block.

Thomas Jones is now 31 years old and before Brett Favre showed up he rushed for just 3.6 YPC in 2007. The Jets potentially will have one of the worst offense in the league.

23. San Francisco 49ers-A division crown certainly would not surprise me with the way last season ended. Mike Singletary seems to have the makings of a great NFL coach but there’s just too many questions on the roster from the subpar pass rush to the talent of on the offensive side of the ball outside of Frank Gore for me to make the pick.

24. Miami Dolphins- Joey Porter is not afraid of the Miami Dolphins much tougher schedule in 2009, but maybe he should be. Going from playing both of the West divisions to the South divisions means a falloff for the AFC East.

I expect Chad Pennington’s noodle of an arm and the Dolphins lack of a pass rush to hurt this team and for the Dolphins to have a drop-off similar to that of the Dallas Cowboys in their second year with Bill Parcells.

25. Denver Broncos- An already awful defense is now switching to the 3-4, and it will be very interesting to see how offense fares with Shanahan and Cutler gone and an unhappy Brandon Marshall.

26. Oakland Raiders- The Richard Seymour trade was enough to move them ahead of the Chiefs and Bills, ultimately though the potential of coaches slugging it out on the sidelines may still be more interesting than the product on the field.

27. Buffalo Bills- The return of Aaron Schoebel should boost what was virtually a nonexistent pass rush at the end of last season. The schedule is going to hurt them though much like it will with the Dolphins. With Marshawn Lynch out to start the season and an opener against the Patriots that has blow-out written all over it, we shall see how happy a camper Terrell Owens is this season.

28. Kansas City Chiefs- Seeing Tyler Thigpen’s development as a QB in the second half of last season makes the trade for Matt Cassel feel unnecessary. Regardless, the Chiefs are heading in the right direction with Scott Pioli as the new GM and Todd Haley as the head coach and are a more talented team than their last season record indicates. However, the defense will prevent them from being a contender in 2009.

29. Cleveland Browns- Gone are Donte Stallworth for the year, Kellen Winslow Jr. for good, and Braylon Edwards hands left the season before. Couple that with a pitiful defense and there doesn’t appear to be much of an upside for the Cleveland Browns 2009 season.

30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- In rebuilding mode after the departures of Jeff Garcia, Derrick Brooks and Cato June among others. Byron Leftwich looked pretty good when filling in for Ben Roethlisberger last year, I’m not buying him for a full season.

The once scary Monte Kiffin defense is a thing of a past and the Buccaneers should expect a year of looking up at fellow NFC South foes.

31. St. Louis Rams- Steven Jackson is a stud when healthy and they hired a great defensive mind as the head coach in Steve Spagnuolo, regardless this roster appears to be among the thinnest in the league.

32. Detroit Lions- Trying hard not to make an 0-16 joke…Trying really hard…Ah, let’s just move on.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Next Page »

NFL Sport Channel Latest

• Just How Far Would You Go?
• Sorry Rex, But It Isn’t Happening
• Super Bowl Predictions: Five Stat-Free Reasons Why the Eagles Will Reach The Super Bowl
• Seahawks Attempt to Turn Corner With Heavy Pursuit of Pete Carroll
• Bill Cowher Unlikely to Coach in 2010