NFL Power Rankings: Week 16: 7-7 Teams Muddling AFC Picture

With 14 games in the books and essentially one spot remaining for the playoffs, the NFC playoff picture is almost complete.

The AFC on the other hand, continues to look wild.

Six teams in the AFC sit at 7-7 and right on the outside of the playoff picture with two weeks remaining.

Here’s how they stand going into week 16.

1. Indianapolis Colts (14-0)

Indianapolis now stands alone as the last remaining unbeaten team.

Standing in its way of perfection? 

The desperate Jets and the discombobulated Bills.

2. New Orleans Saints (13-1)

While its quest for a perfect season has come to an end, the top seed in the NFC is still well within its grasp.

A win at home this Sunday against the lowly Bucs would seal home field advantage throughout the playoffs for the Saints.

3. San Diego Chargers (11-3)

The Chargers have now won nine in a row, and face yet another test Christmas night when they’ll face the streaking Titans.

Could this finally be their year?

4. Philadelphia Eagles (10-4)

The Eagles are on fire, and appear to be on their way to an NFC East title.

They’ve won five straight and have emerged as a legitimate Super Bowl contender.

5. Minnesota Vikings (11-3)

Minnesota has looked quite pedestrian in losing two of its past three games, raising questions about Brad Childress’ opinion of Brett Favre in the process.

With the way the Eagles have been playing, don’t pencil the Vikings in for an NFC Championship Game matchup with New Orleans quite yet.

6. Green Bay Packers (9-5)

The Packers lost a heartbreaking game at the gun to the Steelers Sunday on Mike Wallace’s reception in the corner of the end zone.

Aaron Rodgers’ stellar performance was overshadowed by Ben Roethlisberger’s 500-yard effort.

Rodgers was 26-48 for 383 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions.

7. Dallas Cowboys (9-5)

The Cowboys shocked the world in taking down the Saints in New Orleans Saturday night, in a game they absolutely had to win.

Quite simply, if the Cowboys are able to win their final two against Washington and Philadelphia, they’re in.

8. Cincinnati Bengals (9-5)

Cincinnati has had to battle an inordinate amount of adversity this season, but it’ll have to continue to fight.

The Bengals are now just one game ahead of the Ravens for the lead in the AFC North with two to play.

9. New England Patriots (9-5)

While they haven’t necessarily been pretty wins, the Patriots have won two in a row to regain control of their division.

Randy Moss rebounded from his one-catch effort to record five receptions for 70 yards with a score.

10. Arizona Cardinals (9-5)

The Cardinals were able to clinch the division with a win over the Lions, but they certainly didn’t make anything look easy.

If they want to be able to make any sort of run in the loaded NFC playoffs, they’re going to have to regain their focus.

11. Baltimore Ravens (8-6)

Baltimore has put themselves in playoff position with back-to-back dominating victories over the Lions and Bears.

They can all-but lock up a playoff spot by taking down Pittsburgh this weekend, which will knock the Steelers out.

12. New York Giants (8-6)

The G-Men finally looked like the team we saw at the beginning of the season in their Monday night thrashing of the Redskins.

However, they’re still going to need to win their final two, as well as have either Dallas or Green Bay lose one, in order to reach the postseason.

13. Denver Broncos (8-6)

Denver became the latest victim to fall to the late-game heroics of the Raiders.

While the Broncos would be in the playoffs if they started today, they’ve lost six of their last eight games and are officially reeling.

14. Tennessee Titans (7-7)

They’ve come all the way back from an 0-6 start to put themselves in position to fight for a postseason berth.

They’ll certainly be tested when the Chargers come to town on Christmas night.

15. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7)

Pittsburgh earned a miracle victory over the Packers Sunday to keep hope alive.

The Ravens come to town Sunday in what appears to be the biggest game of the weekend.

16. Miami Dolphins (7-7)

The Dolphins’ comeback attempt fell just short in Sunday’s OT loss to the Titans.

They’ll face the Texans this Sunday in a battle of 7-7 teams fighting for their lives.

17. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-7)

Jacksonville was thisclose to ending the Colts’ bid for perfection last Thursday in a 35-31 loss.

In his first year as the full-time starter, Maurice Jones-Drew has rushed for 1,246 yards on 278 carries with 15 touchdowns.

18. Atlanta Falcons (7-7)

The lone 7-7 team in the NFC, the Falcons are essentially just playing the season out.

Injuries to several key players have derailed Atlanta’s hopes of making back-to-back playoff appearances.

19. New York Jets (7-7)

The Jets’ up-and-down season has, of course, left them amongst the 7-7 teams.

Mark Sanchez had another poor game in the loss to the Falcons, throwing three crucial interceptions and leading New York on just one scoring drive.

20. Houston Texans (7-7)

The Texans have won two in a row in order to keep their incredibly slim playoff chances alive.

They’ll go against two AFC East teams (Miami, New England) in the final two games.

21. Carolina Panthers (6-8)

Carolina trounced the Vikings Sunday night, making it look easy in the process.

The Panthers have one of the most potent rushing attacks in the league, as DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart have combined to rush for nearly 2,000 yards with 15 touchdowns combined.

22. San Francisco 49ers (6-8)

Remaining games with Detroit and St. Louis mean the Niners are likely headed for a solid 8-8 season.

Has Alex Smith put himself in position to remain San Francisco’s long-term QB?

23. Oakland Raiders (5-9)

After whispers of perhaps being the worst team in the league earlier in the season, the Raiders have put together some impressive wins.

Oakland’s five victims this year are Kansas City, Philadelphia, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, and Denver.

24. Chicago Bears (5-9)

Except for perhaps the Steelers, the Bears have been the NFL’s biggest disappointment this season.

After giving up quite a bit to acquire him, are the Bears sure Jay Cutler is going to be their quarterback in 2010?

25. Seattle Seahawks (5-9)

Speaking of quarterbacks, how much longer do the Seahawks stick with Matt Hasselbeck?

He’s getting up there in age, and has been battling injuries on a fairly consistent basis.

26. Buffalo Bills (5-9)

Buffalo will finish up a forgettable season with a game at Atlanta and one at home against the Colts.

27. Washington Redskins (4-10)

The Redskins were overwhelmed in their blowout defeat at the hands of the Giants Monday night.

Their final two?

At home against Dallas and at San Diego.

Will they be Jim Zorn’s final two as head coach?

28. Cleveland Browns (3-11)

The Browns won their second straight in spectacular fashion Sunday over the Chiefs.

Jerome Harrison set a team record rushing for 286 yards and Joshua Cribbs returned two kickoffs for touchdowns.

29. Kansas City Chiefs (3-11)

Another fine effort from Jamaal Charles was overshadowed by the antics of Harrison and Cribbs.

Charles rushed for 154 yards on 25 carries with a score in the 41-34 loss.

30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-12)

Tampa became the second straight team to obliterate the Seahawks with its 24-7 win Sunday.

Josh Freeman played very well and the defense forced Seattle into five turnovers.

31. Detroit Lions (2-12)

The Lions showed heart in coming back from 17 points down against Arizona, highlighted by long touchdowns from Louis Delmas and Maurice Morris.

They have a few solid young parts and may be headed in the right direction.

32. St. Louis Rams (1-13)

With the Bucs’ victory, the Rams now sit alone at the bottom of the NFL, in line to receive the first overall pick in the draft.

Quarterback?

Defensive tackle?

Considering how many holes the Rams have, it will be very interesting to see where they place their priorities.

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NFL Power Rankings Week 15: AFC Playoff Spots Wide Open

We’re already down to the final three weeks of the NFL season, and the AFC playoff picture is still a mess.

A whopping nine teams (New England, Miami, New York Jets, Jacksonville, Houston, Tennessee, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Denver) are all within two games of one another.

Meanwhile, the Saints and Colts both head into short weeks still unbeaten, both at 13-0.

Here’s how they stack up going into Week 15.

1. Indianapolis Colts (13-0)

While they were challenged by the Broncos in the second half, the Colts were able to hold them off on their way to their 22nd consecutive regular season win, an NFL record.

While they have home field advantage throughout the playoffs already locked up, the Colts can deliver a huge blow to Jacksonville’s playoff hopes with another win Thursday night in Florida.

2. New Orleans Saints (13-0)

They were able to pull out a close one in Atlanta, and now head home to the Superdome to face the swooning Cowboys.

Had the Falcons driven down the field and scored on their last possession, Sean Payton’s curious fake field goal call would look quite “Belichickian” this week.

3. Minnesota Vikings (11-2)

The Vikes rebounded from their loss to the Cardinals with a clubbing of the Bengals at home.

They’re still mathematically alive for home field throughout the NFC playoffs, but they’ll have to win-out, which won’t be easy.

Their remaining three: at Carolina, at Chicago, v. New York Giants.

4. San Diego Chargers (10-3)

The Chargers are absolutely rolling and have now won eight straight games.

Philip Rivers is now 16-0 in his career in December, and the Chargers have officially reached “team nobody wants to play” status.

5. Philadelphia Eagles (9-4)

Philly has won four straight, and is now alone atop the NFC East with three to play.

DeSean Jackson has become the NFC’s version of Chris Johnson: a playmaker capable of taking it the distance every time he touches the ball.

Jackson has tied an NFL record with eight touchdowns of 50 yards or more this season.

6. Green Bay Packers (9-4)

The Packers have won five in a row, and Aaron Rodgers has asserted himself as a player worthy of MVP consideration.

Rodgers has thrown for 3,579 yards with 25 touchdowns and seven interceptions this season.

7. Cincinnati Bengals (9-4)

The Bengals are a tough team to figure out, as evidenced by their smashing at the hands of the Vikings Sunday.

They’ll be tested once again this week, when they have to travel to San Diego to face the red-hot Chargers.

8. Arizona Cardinals (8-5)

Arizona turned the ball over seven times on their way to an uninspiring 24-9 loss in San Francisco.

The Cardinals’ leading receiver last night? 

Early Doucet, who caught two passes for 41 yards.

Ouch.

9. Dallas Cowboys (8-5)

Cowboys’ fans can officially panic now, as Dallas’ December struggles continue.

The Cowboys will now head down to New Orleans Saturday night to face the 13-0 Saints.

After that, they have to travel to Washington to play the Redskins and then play the Eagles in the season finale at home.

If the Cowboys fail to make the playoffs this season after starting 8-3, it will have been their most epic collapse to date.

10. Denver Broncos (8-5)

Brandon Marshall’s record-setting day wasn’t enough to help Denver dethrone the unbeaten Colts.

However, the Broncos’ prospects for making the playoffs are still good, considering they still have home games remaining with both the Chiefs and the Raiders.

11. New England Patriots (8-5)

They were able to take care of business against the Panthers, but it certainly wasn’t an easy task.

There are questions abound about Randy Moss’ commitment to the team, as he had just one catch for 16 yards Sunday. 

12. New York Giants (7-6)

Because of the two-game sweep of the Cowboys, if the Giants win out, they’re assured of a playoff berth.

Their final three games: at Washington, v. Carolina, at Minnesota.

There’s a good chance that the Week 17 game against the Vikings won’t mean much to Minnesota, so perhaps this schedule isn’t as daunting as it may appear at first glance.

13. Miami Dolphins (7-6)

The Dolphins took a huge step towards a playoff berth with Sunday’s 14-10 win at Jacksonville.

They’ve gone 7-3 since a subpar start, and have put themselves in position to potentially steal a division title from the Patriots.

14. Baltimore Ravens (7-6)

The Ravens took a step towards the playoffs with Sunday’s dominating win over the hapless Lions.

Ray Rice surpassed the 1,000 rushing yards mark in that game and is averaging 5.4 yards per carry.

15. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-6)

The Jags had to beat Miami Sunday in order to realistically stay alive in the AFC playoff race.

With their next two against the Colts and Patriots, it seems as though their Cinderella-type run could be coming to an end.

16. New York Jets (7-6)

New York has quietly won three in a row and faces the Falcons this weekend in a make-or-break game for both teams.

After that they’ll be facing the Colts and Bengals, who could be resting their starters for the playoffs by then.

17. Tennessee Titans (6-7)

Chris Johnson continued his march towards 2,000 yards rushing with his 117 yard effort against the Rams Sunday.

Johnson is 374 yards shy of 2,000 with three games left to play.

18. Houston Texans (6-7)

The Texans did what they do best in dominating the Seahawks 34-7 Sunday: looking spectacular in games that essentially mean nothing.

Andre Johnson continued his assault on the NFL against Seattle, catching 11 passes for 193 yards and two touchdowns.

19. Atlanta Falcons (6-7)

The Falcons were quite competitive Sunday against New Orleans, falling 26-23. 

While Mark Redman fared pretty well, the Falcons need Matt Ryan to get back into the lineup as soon as possible.

20. San Francisco 49ers (6-7)

The Niners’ defense looked phenomenal in forcing Arizona into seven turnovers Monday night, and Frank Gore had a field day running the football as well.

While they’re still a major longshot for the playoffs, San Francisco has to be pleased with what they’ve been able to develop this season.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-7)

The Steelers continued their free-fall in losing to the awful Browns last Thursday night, stretching their losing streak to five games.

The defending champs are likely not going to make the playoffs, and losses to the Chiefs, Raiders, and Browns have contributed to what has turned into one of the most embarrassing seasons in franchise history.

22. Carolina Panthers (5-8)

As if Carolina’s season hasn’t been rough enough, their last remaining schedule is likely the toughest in the league.

Their final three: v. Minnesota, at New York Giants, v. New Orleans Saints.

23. Chicago Bears (5-8)

After the obligatory win over the Rams the previous week, the Bears got back to their losing ways in a 21-14 loss to Green Bay.

Jay Cutler’s performance? 

Not so bad: 23-36, 209 yards, two touchdowns, two interceptions.

24. Seattle Seahawks (5-8)

The Seahawks were obliterated by the Texans Sunday, and the game was all-but decided after just one play from scrimmage.

On the first play of the game, the Seahawks gave up a 64-yard touchdown bomb to Andre Johnson, and the game was never in doubt from there.

25. Buffalo Bills (5-8)

The Bills went into Kansas City and beat the Chiefs 16-10 in what had to be the most boring game of the weekend.

Ryan Fitzpatrick has now thrown for under 100 yards in two straight games.

26. Washington Redskins (4-9)

Jason Campbell has come alive in his last four games, throwing for 256, 231, 367, and 222 yards, respectively.

The Redskins are playing solid football right now, but will it be enough to save Jim Zorn?

27. Oakland Raiders (4-9)

It seemed as though their game against the Redskins was over once Bruce Gradkowski went down and JaMarcus Russell had to come in and play.

However, Russell’s stats weren’t even terrible: 10-16 for 74 yards with an interception.

If Russell can complete passes at that rate on a regular basis, maybe he can start to show some improvement and actually look like an NFL player.

28. Kansas City Chiefs (3-10)

The Chiefs face the Browns this weekend in a game that could actually be more useless than KC’s last game against the Bills.

A bright spot for the Chiefs? Jamaal Charles has rushed for 605 yards on 116 carries (5.2 ypc) and four touchdowns this season.

29. Detroit Lions (2-11)

Detroit was awful in every facet of the game in their 48-3 blowout loss to the Ravens.

They had no passing game, no running game, and forced no turnovers on defense.

Not exactly a formula for victory.

30. Cleveland Browns (2-11)

The Browns were able to shock the world and pull off a stunner in beating the Steelers, all but ending Pittsburgh’s playoff hopes last Thursday night.

With their game in Kansas City this weekend, might the Browns actually win two straight?

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-12)

With the Browns winning their second game, it’s looking like it will be a battle between the Bucs and Rams for number one pick in April’s draft.

32. St. Louis Rams (1-12)

If they land the first pick, is there any guarantee they would take Ndamukong Suh, the player everyone seems to be convinced will go first overall?

The Rams don’t have any semblance of a franchise-type quarterback on the current roster, and could be looking to improve that area before anything else.

 

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Fantasy Football Risers and Fallers: Week 14

A couple of lesser-known guys (Bruce Gradkowski, Devin Thomas) were able to put up some huge numbers in week 13. 

Will they be able to consistently perform at that level?

Who knows, as there are always guys who explode one week, only to fall back down to earth the next (think Ryan Moats). 

So, that being said, which guys are legitimate, and which guys are pretenders?

 

Risers

 

Ray Rice-RB-Baltimore Ravens

Ray Rice has been underrated all year long, and one sub-par game against the Packers Monday night shouldn’t hurt his fantasy stock too much.

On the season, Rice has rushed for 875 yards on 181 carries with three touchdowns, and caught another 64 balls, for 599 yards, and a score.

Start him this weekend against the lowly Lions defense with confidence.

 

Robert Meachem-WR-New Orleans Saints

According to ESPN fantasy numbers, Meachem is somehow owned in just 66 percent of their leagues.

Considering he’s scored in five consecutive games, and has emerged as one of Drew Brees’ primary targets, this is shocking news.

Against a weak Atlanta pass defense this weekend, I’d expect Meachem to score yet again.

 

Brandon Jacobs-RB-New York Giants

While Jacobs’ fantasy numbers last week were due in large part to his one 74-yard touchdown reception, he’s going to have to be a huge part of what the Giants try to do against the Eagles.

The Eagles haven’t been overly strong against the run, and with the Giants facing another must-win situation, Jacobs is sure to be prominently featured.

 

Anquan Boldin-WR-Arizona Cardinals

Boldin has either recorded 100 yards receiving or scored a touchdown in three of his past four games.

With Kurt Warner appearing to be completely healthy, Boldin is essentially a must-start this week against San Francisco.

 

Calvin Johnson-WR-Detroit Lions

Johnson has scored a touchdown in each of his last three games, and has recorded over 100 yards receiving in two of those.

Even with Matthew Stafford likely out, Johnson should be able to put up decent numbers against what’s been a shaky Ravens defense, as of late.

 

Fallers

 

Bruce Gradkowski-QB-Oakland Raiders

You may be asking, “Why, after a week in which he went 20-33 with 308 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions is Bruce Gradkowski a ‘faller’?”

Well, it’s likely that his numbers are going to fall this week.

While the Raiders aren’t facing an elite pass defense (the Redskins), Gradkowski is going to have to show that he can put up consistently good numbers before he can be trusted as a fantasy quarterback.

If you have to start him, you’d better have a very good reason.

 

Marion Barber-RB-Dallas Cowboys

While the Cowboys have been winning games on a fairly consistent basis, the running game hasn’t been as prominent as it was earlier in the season.

In fact, Marion Barber hasn’t scored a touchdown since Week Eight against the Seahawks, and has only had one 100-yard rushing game this season, and that was way back in Week Two against the Giants.

If they’re going to want to win games in the playoffs, Dallas is going to have to get the running game back on track.

Until that happens, I’d be wary of starting Marion Barber.

 

DeAngelo Williams-RB-Carolina Panthers

Williams is limited due to an ankle injury, which if he plays, could hinder his performance against New England.

Considering they have one of the league’s best backups in Jonathan Stewart, I’d be wary of playing Williams.

 

Matt Forte-RB-Chicago Bears

Despite running for 91 yards with a touchdown against the Rams, Forte is, once again, a fantasy faller.

Forte hasn’t been able to get it going all season long, and a matchup against a sturdy Packers’ run defense that was flying all over the field against the Ravens doesn’t bode well for him.

 

Vincent Jackson-WR-San Diego Chargers

Jackson, after scoring at least one touchdown in six of the first eight games of the season, now hasn’t crossed the goal line since week nine against the Giants.

The Cowboys’ pass defense has played fairly well lately, which should be a tough test for Jackson.

While I wouldn’t be surprised if he was able to score this weekend, I’d look for better receiving options this week.

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NFL Power Rankings: Week 14, AFC Powers Faltering

 

While the NFC playoff picture is clearing up, the AFC seems to get more and more muddled with each passing week.

If the season were to end today, the NFC playoffs would feature New Orleans, Minnesota, Arizona, Dallas, Philadelphia, and Green Bay.

If the season were to end today, the AFC playoff picture would feature Indianapolis, Cincinnati, San Diego, New England, Denver, and…Jacksonville?

It’s true.

 

 

 

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NFL Power Rankings: Week 13: New Orleans Saints Back on Top

Last night, the New Orleans Saints made all the hype surrounding their matchup with the New England Patriots seem quite silly.

Drew Brees and company made it look easy against the Patriots, cruising to a 38-17 win that puts them back on top of the football world…for now.

1. New Orleans Saints (11-0)

Drew Brees had a perfect passer rating (158.3) Monday night against the Patriots.

It’s amazing how he’s being so overlooked in the MVP race so far.

2. Indianapolis Colts (11-0)

Another week, another fourth quarter comeback win for the Colts.

Their upcoming game against the red-hot Titans may be Indy’s toughest test yet.

3. Minnesota Vikings (10-1)

Every week, they make it look easier and easier.

Sidney Rice has two consecutive games with the same stat line: six catches, 89 yards.

4. San Diego Chargers (8-3)

Don’t expect the San Diego train to stop rolling this weekend, as they travel to Cleveland.

5. Cincinnati Bengals (8-3)

What better way to rebound from a terrible loss than with a game against the Browns?

Rookie Bernard Scott has filled in quite capably for the injured Cedric Benson. 

6. Dallas Cowboys (8-3)

The Cowboys have a great opportunity to all-but end the Giants’ season this Sunday in the Meadowlands.

On another note, Roy Williams scored a touchdown against the Raiders.

No way!

7. Green Bay Packers (7-4)

Green Bay has quietly gotten right back into the NFC playoff picture with three straight wins.

All eyes will be on Aaron Rodgers as the Ravens come to Lambeau Monday night.

8. New England Patriots (7-4)

New England looked completely overmatched against the Saints.

The Pats’ 1-4 road record has to be of some concern.

9. Arizona Cardinals (7-4)

Hard to punish the Cardinals for a tough loss at Tennessee.

They’re just the latest victims to get run over by the train known as Vince Young and Chris Johnson.

10. Denver Broncos (7-4)

The Broncos looked like the team that started 6-0 in Thanksgiving’s whipping of the Giants.

With an extremely light schedule the rest of the way, the Broncos are still in great position to make the playoffs.

11. Philadelphia Eagles (7-4)

They showed lots of heart in Sunday’s comeback win over the Redskins.

However, with the talent they have, they should have never been down against the Redskins in the first place.

12. Tennessee Titans (5-6)

Suddenly, Chris Johnson’s “wild” proclamation that the Titans would run the table to end the season isn’t looking so crazy.

If they beat undefeated Indianapolis Sunday, they could miraculously find themselves in the playoffs.

13. Atlanta Falcons (6-5)

Mark Redman filled in quite well for the injured Matt Ryan in the Falcons’ victory over the Bucs, throwing for 243 yards with a pair of touchdowns.

This weekend presents a tougher matchup for Redman as the Eagles fly into town.

14. Baltimore Ravens (6-5)

The Ravens were able to notch a huge win over the wounded Steelers Sunday night to stay alive in the playoff hunt.

They head into Green Bay on Monday night in what could be another must-win game.

15. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5)

Other than the interception that ended up costing the Steelers the game, Dennis Dixon looked solid in his first NFL start.

Unfortunately, Pittsburgh is now on the outside looking in on the playoffs.

16. Jacksonville Jaguars (6-5)

The Jags’ offense was essentially non-existent in their 20-3 loss at the hands of San Francisco.

Sunday’s matchup with the Texans could make-or-break Jacksonville’s season.

17. New York Giants (6-5)

It’s incredible to think that this team was once 5-0, and we were debating about whether or not they were the NFL’s best.

Now, their season really comes down to this weekend’s home game with Dallas.

18. Houston Texans (5-6)

The lack of a killer instinct from Gary Kubiak is likely going to lead to his unemployment this spring.

Nobody was surprised when Houston blew a 17-0 lead against the Colts and lost the game in embarrassing fashion.

19. Miami Dolphins (5-6)

The Dolphins laid an egg against the Bills in a game they had to win in order to maintain any playoff aspirations.

Their next three are tough: vs. New England, at Jacksonville, at Tennessee.

20. New York Jets (5-6)

It had to be a confidence-booster for Mark Sanchez to get to watch Jake Delhomme play quarterback Sunday.

21. San Francisco 49ers (5-6)

Alex Smith played perhaps the best game of his career Sunday against Jacksonville, going 27-41 for 232 yards and two touchdowns.

Smith is only 25-years-old, and has plenty of time to turn his career completely around.

22. Carolina Panthers (4-7)

Sunday’s debacle against the Jets added yet another chapter to Jake Delhomme’s awful season.

The Panthers QB was 14-34 for 130 yards, with no touchdowns and four interceptions in the 17-6 defeat.

23. Chicago Bears (4-7)

The Bears have lost four straight, and the Jay Cutler trade is looking worse and worse every week.

24. Seattle Seahawks (4-7)

After his terrible eight attempts for nine yards rushing against Minnesota last week, Justin Forsett rebounded against the Rams for 130 yards on 22 carries, with two touchdowns.

25. Buffalo Bills (4-7)

So far, so good for Ryan Fitzpatrick since he was named Buffalo’s permanent starting quarterback, as he recorded his second straight stellar game in the win over Miami.

26. Washington Redskins (3-8)

For the second straight week, the Redskins managed to snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.

27. Kansas City Chiefs (3-8)

Jamaal Charles has been fantastic since the departure of Larry Johnson, rushing 14 times for 93 yards with a touchdown and catching three more for 54 yards Sunday against the Chargers.

On the season, Charles is averaging a whopping 5.2 yards per carry.

28. Oakland Raiders (3-8)

JaMarcus Russell completed 96 passes for 1,064 yards, with two touchdowns and nine interceptions in nine games as Oakland’s starting quarterback this season.

Bruce Gradkowski has completed 52 passes for 546 yards with three touchdowns and three interceptions in two starts (plus parts of three other games).

29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-10)

Josh Freeman was great in the loss to Atlanta.

Freeman was 20-29 for 250 yards with two touchdowns and zero interceptions.

So far, he’s looked like a nice steal.

30. Detroit Lions (2-9)

Coming off of his heroic effort against Cleveland, Matthew Stafford had a Thanksgiving to forget against Green Bay.

He was 20-43 with 213 yards, one touchdown, and four interceptions.

31. St. Louis Rams (1-10)

The Rams remaining schedule: at Chicago, at Tennessee, vs. Houston, at Arizona, vs. San Francisco.

Steve Spagnuolo is staring at a 1-15 record in his first year as an NFL head coach.

32. Cleveland Browns: (1-10)

The Browns still have games remaining against both KC and Oakland.

It remains to be seen whether or not a single person will be watching either game.

 

 

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Texans-Titans: For the Second Straight Game, Houston Faces Must-Win

Coming off the bye week, the Houston Texans have had plenty of time to think about “what could’ve been” after week nine’s crushing divisional defeat at the hands of the Colts. 

Hopefully, Houston has spent more of its time off thinking about “what will be” than “what could’ve been.”

Tonight, the Texans will play on Monday Night Football for the second time in franchise history, and there’s much more to worry about than impressing people on a national stage. 

Houston (5-4) is set to face the suddenly red-hot Tennessee Titans (3-6), with Houston native Vince Young making his first start in his hometown since devastating the Texans with a game-winning, 39-yard scamper in an overtime game during his rookie season in 2007. 

However, much has changed since then.

The Texans are right in the thick of the AFC playoff race and must win games like tonight’s if they want to remain relevant.

In Houston’s first game against Tennessee this season, a 34-31 victory in Nashville, quarterback Matt Schaub had his best game as a pro, throwing for 357 yards with four touchdowns and no interceptions.

Cortland Finnegan and company had no answer for Andre Johnson, who racked up 10 catches for 149 yards with a pair of touchdowns.

So, nothing to worry about, right?

The Titans started this season 0-6, and the Texans have already beaten them once.

Wrong.

Since Young was inserted as the starting quarterback, the Titans have won three straight and are looking much more like the team that went 13-3 a season ago.

Titans running back Chris Johnson, who gashed the Texans for 284 total yards and three touchdowns in their week two meeting, has been on fire of late.

Johnson leads the NFL in rushing with 1,091 yards so far, and he’s played one fewer game than everyone else atop the rushing leader board to this point. 

He’s amassed six touchdowns during Tennessee’s three-game win streak, with a whopping 635 total yards.

Clearly, Houston must gear a huge percentage of its defensive efforts towards stopping him, as he’s really the only big-time offensive playmaker the Titans have. 

So, how will they do it?

The Texans’ defense has been stellar since struggling earlier in the season and has risen from 32nd against the run all the way up to 13th in the league.

The Titans have been careful in easing Young into the action thus far, and he hasn’t really thrown the ball down the field much.

This helps the Texans, because it allows them to keep the safeties closer to the line of scrimmage, meaning they’ll have two more guys that can hopefully help to contain Johnson before he can really gain momentum.

If Johnson is able to get out into open space, he’s virtually impossible to catch, as evidenced by his series of highlight reel plays so far this season.

The Texans’ pass rush will also need to get pressure on Young and force him to make improvisational plays.

Do they want Young to be running around? Not necessarily, but they do need to be able to flush him from the pocket and force him to make throws on the move.

The Titans will certainly attempt their fair share of short screens in an attempt to get Johnson out into the open, and it will be important for the Texans’ linebackers (namely DeMeco Ryans and Brian Cushing) to be prepared and get into positions to make plays.

Another important factor in tonight’s game will be the effectiveness of Houston’s running game.

The struggles of Steve Slaton have been well documented, but fumbling hasn’t been his only problem.

The second-year back from West Virginia has carried the ball 116 times for just 359 yards this season, good for an awful 3.1 yards per carry.

The Texans started Ryan Moats over Slaton against Indianapolis, but Moats didn’t fare any better and had a fumble near the goal line of his own.

Running on Tennessee is no easy task, as they rank just behind the Texans (14th in the league) against the run.

Houston has shown that it can win by relying heavily on throwing the ball, but lack of a running game makes it much easier on a defense to prepare for the pass. 

The Texans will also need pass catchers other than Andre Johnson to step up.

Tight end Owen Daniels, who was in the middle of his best year to date, is gone for the season with a torn ACL.

That leaves Joel Dreessen and James Casey as Houston’s two primary receiving tight ends.

Kevin Walter, who enjoyed a breakout season a year ago, hasn’t been as involved in the offense in 2009, and with so much attention to be focused on Johnson, he needs to find a way to get himself open.

Fortunately for the Texans, Tennessee has struggled in a major way against the pass, ranking 31st in the league.

This just happens to be Houston’s strong suit, and they should be able to exploit the Titans’ secondary.

If the Texans’ offensive line is able to hold up and give Schaub time to pass, he’s dangerous enough to do significant damage.

Divisional games are rarely easy on either team, and tonight will be no exception.

Tennessee has more to play for than just spoiling the Texans’ season, as they are still barely alive in the playoff race. 

A victory for the Texans puts them in control of their own destiny.

A victory for the Titans has the Texans back to thinking about “what could’ve been.”

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Fantasy Football Risers and Fallers: NFL Week 11

In the past couple of weeks, we’ve seen a slew of running backs go down hurt, including Clinton Portis, Ronnie Brown, Michael Turner, Cedric Benson and Brian Westbrook (again).

With so many injuries at such a key position, you may be scrambling to find a capable fill-in.

There are even a couple of old, familiar faces that made their way back into the fantasy picture during Week 11.

 

Risers:

 

LaDainian Tomlinson-RB-San Diego Chargers

LT certainly looked like his old self last week against Philadelphia, rushing for 96 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

He faces another solid defense this weekend against the Broncos, but maybe he’s found the fountain of youth.

He’d be deserving of a start if you have him.

 

Chris Wells-RB-Arizona Cardinals

Beanie broke out last week against Seattle and had his best game as a pro by far, rushing for 85 yards and two touchdowns.

The Rams don’t appear to be as bad as we thought, but the Cardinals should be able to get ahead early in the game, meaning they’ll be running the ball more and more during the latter stages. That’s when Wells could do his damage.

Why not plug him in and give him a shot?

He’s run for over five yards per carry over the past three games.

 

Jonathan Stewart-RB-Carolina Panthers

Stewart’s 82 yards and two touchdowns looked almost identical to those numbers of Wells in Week 10.

Stewart has tremendous value once Carolina gets down around the goal line, so he’s a big-time threat to visit the end zone.

Keep in mind, if you’re going to play him, you’ll have to put him in soon. Carolina plays Miami on Thursday night.

 

Sidney Rice-WR-Minnesota Vikings

Rice is averaging 128 yards receiving per game over his past four.

Last week, he went wild for 201 yards on just seven receptions.

While he didn’t find the end zone, it’s clear that he’s become Brett Favre’s No. 1 passing option.

With the Vikings facing Detroit Sunday, expect him to do some damage.

 

Joseph Addai-RB-Indianapolis Colts

Addai has put together two solid weeks in a row, scoring four touchdowns.

While his yardage isn’t through the roof, the fact that he’s getting into the end zone makes him a worthy fantasy option.

Start him.

 

Fallers:

 

Donald Brown-RB-Indianapolis Colts

The recent success of Addai combined with a nagging shoulder injury has kept Brown’s production at a minimum.

While he’ll get a few touches, it’s unclear if he’ll actually get enough to make much of a difference.

He was effective earlier in the season, so don’t cut him, just don’t expect much out of him right now.

 

Matt Ryan-QB-Atlanta Falcons

It’s been tough sledding recently for last year’s Offensive Rookie of the Year.

The Falcons are struggling and are headed into a hostile environment (Giants Stadium) to face a Giants team that will be desperate for a win.

Play him if you must, but don’t be surprised if he doesn’t give you much of a boost.

 

Joe Flacco-QB-Baltimore Ravens

Flacco, since starting the season with such explosive numbers, has been quite pedestrian in recent weeks. He had a no-touchdown performance against the hapless Browns last Monday night.

Needless to say, the Colts aren’t the Browns. It could be more of the same from Flacco Sunday.

 

Greg Jennings-WR-Green Bay Packers

Jennings isn’t just a faller for this week, he’s been a faller all season long.

Green Bay’s No. 1 deep threat hasn’t gotten many touches at all this season because the Packers’ offensive line has had so many problems keeping pass rushers away from Aaron Rodgers.

He only had four catches for 45 yards last week in a game the Packers won.

Until he does something, I would keep him on the bench.

 

Marshawn Lynch-RB-Buffalo Bills

Lynch has just one rushing touchdown in the five games he’s played since returning from his season-opening, four-game suspension.

Fred Jackson has been flat-out better all season long and the Bills don’t have much reason to favor Lynch nowadays.

While I wouldn’t cut him, I wouldn’t play him right now, either.

For more fantasy advice, go to NFLSoup.com

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Fantasy Football Risers and Fallers: Week 10

The 2009 NFL season hasn’t been particularly kind to a few of the running backs that were taken at the top of most fantasy drafts. 

Players like Matt Forte, Steve Slaton, and Michael Turner have struggled through disappointing seasons thus far.

Now, it’s looking as though one of those guys can officially be marked off the list. 

Here are the top five fantasy risers and fallers going into Week 10. 

 

Risers

Michael Turner, RB, Atlanta Falcons

Through the Falcons’ first six games of ’09, Turner had just one game of over 100 yards rushing. 

This is the same guy that led the NFL in rushing a season ago.

Over the past two weeks, “The Burner” appears to have gotten things in order, rushing for 151 and 166 yards, respectively.

He’s officially back to “unconditionally start him” mode.

 

Chris Johnson, RB, Tennessee Titans

Outside of a monster week two game against Houston, Johnson hadn’t done much fantasy-wise through the first six games of the season.

That’s all changed in the past two weeks after two monster games, in which he has run for 228 and 135 yards, with two rushing touchdowns in each game.

This weekend he and his Titans face the Bills, owners of one of the worst run defenses in the NFL.

Absolutely start Chris Johnson.

 

Josh Freeman, QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Freeman shocked the world in his NFL debut, throwing for three touchdowns in a huge upset of the Packers last Sunday.

While he may not be worthy of a start just yet, he’s worth picking up, for injury purposes. 

Keep an eye on him.

 

Ray Rice, RB, Baltimore Ravens

Looking at his numbers, Rice has flown almost completely under-the-radar and has been one of the most consistent fantasy backs in the league so far.

His Ravens face the Browns on Monday Night Football coming up.

Need I say more?

 

Ladell Betts, RB, Washington Redskins

With Clinton Portis out, Betts becomes the Redskins’ No. 1 ball-carrier.

Filling in for Portis last Sunday against Atlanta, Betts amassed over 100 total yards with a touchdown.

He’d be a nice flex option against Denver.

 

 

Fallers

Matt Forte, RB, Chicago Bears

It’s been a sophomore NFL season to forget for Matt Forte thus far. 

Forte has just three rushing touchdowns all season, with two of those coming against the hapless and helpless Browns two weeks ago.

I’d sit him against San Francisco’s stout run defense this weekend.

 

New York Giants, Defense

It’s obviously not a coincidence that with the Giants in the midst of a four-game losing streak, their defense has been terrible for fantasy.

Maybe this weekend’s bye will help them, but I would hesitate to start them again until they can prove they’re capable once again.

 

Houston Texans Running Backs

Against Buffalo in Week Nine, Steve Slaton was benched because of fumble issues.

Ryan Moats filled in for Slaton and promptly rushed for over 100 yards and scored thrice.

So, what does Moats do for an encore against the Colts?

Fumbles! Of course! 

It would probably just be a good idea to avoid starting whomever the Texans choose to start in the backfield coming out of their bye next week.

 

Shonn Greene, RB, New York Jets

After lighting the world on fire in his first real game action as a pro against lowly Oakland in Week Seven, Greene ran for a cool 18 yards on eight carries with a fumble the very next week against Miami.

He’ll get some touches coming out of the bye against the Jaguars Sunday, but do not start him unless your team is absolutely ravaged by injuries.

 

Tashard Choice, RB, Dallas Cowboys

With the healthy Marion Barber and Felix Jones now back in front of him, Choice’s standout performances from the early weeks of the season are a thing of the past. 

However, Jones has battled injury problems throughout his first two pro seasons, so you never know when Choice will be thrown right back into the far.

He may not be worth a roster spot at the moment, but keep an eye on him.

For more from Taylor Smith and more fantasy advice, head over to NFLSoup.com

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Power Rankings: Week 10

The NFL’s two unbeatens coming into the week remained that way … barely.

With the Saints and Colts appearing to be coming back to the pack, the door is slowly swinging open for a few other contenders.

Who are they?

1. New Orleans Saints (8-0)

The unbeaten Saints face St. Louis and Tampa before their showdown with New England.

2. Indianapolis Colts (8-0)

We’ll see what Indy is really made of this Sunday night against the aforementioned Patriots.

3. Minnesota Vikings (7-1)

The Vikes essentially have two consecutive bye weeks, as they face the lowly Lions this Sunday.

4. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2)

After a slow start, the defending champs have won five straight, and are officially once again Super Bowl contenders. 

5. New England Patriots (6-2)

The Pats will certainly be tested in order to remain on top of the AFC East.

Their next five games are against Indianapolis, New York Jets, New Orleans, Miami, and Carolina.

6. Dallas Cowboys (6-2)

The overtime victory over the Chiefs has served as a springboard for the rejuvenated Cowboys, winners of four straight, including Sunday night’s revenge game at Philly.

7. Cincinnati Bengals (6-2)

Just when we think they’re finally going to fade, Cedric Benson and company just keep on winning games.

8. Denver Broncos (6-2)

Two straight lopsided losses to AFC North teams has Denver looking quite pedestrian after their 6-0 start.

9. Philadelphia Eagles (5-3)

Big play threats DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin were non-factors against Dallas, combining for just five catches and 73 yards.

10. Arizona Cardinals (5-3)

The defending NFC champs rebounded from an awful showing against Carolina with a dominating 41-21 victory over Chicago behind five TD passes from Kurt Warner.

11. Atlanta Falcons (5-3)

An easy victory over the hapless Redskins was just what the doctor ordered after tough losses to the Cowboys and Saints.

12. Houston Texans (5-3)

A blown call by the officials on the Ryan Moats fumble and countless defensive penalties cost the Texans the game at Indianapolis Sunday.

13. San Diego Chargers (5-3)

Suddenly, the Chargers are looking like a major threat once again, and the Broncos lead in the division is anything but safe.

14. Baltimore Ravens (4-4)

After their second loss to the Bengals, the Ravens should have their sights set on nabbing one of the Wild Card spots.

15. New York Giants (5-4)

What happened to the complete team that started this season 5-0?

16. Carolina Panthers (3-5)

Despite a close loss at New Orleans, it’s safe to say the Panthers have turned things around since their 0-3 start.

17. New York Jets (4-4)

Following the bye week, can the Jets stay consistent enough to remain in the playoff race down the stretch?

18. Chicago Bears (4-4)

Somehow, nine weeks in, the Bears still have two games left against division-rival Minnesota.

This doesn’t bode well.

19. Green Bay Packers (4-4)

When you can’t keep Aaron Rodgers clean against the Bucs, you know you have issues on the front line.

20. San Francisco 49ers (3-5)

The Niners have lost five of six games following their 2-1 start, including three straight against AFC South opponents.

21. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-4)

Just 45,516 showed up to watch the Jags beat the a sorry Chiefs team 24-21.

22. Miami Dolphins (3-5)

It’s been tough going for Ronnie Brown following the bye.

In three games since the off week, Brown has rushed for just 48, 27, and 48 yards, respectively.

23. Tennessee Titans (2-6)

With a 2-0 record since Vince Young replaced Kerry Collins, it’s too bad Jeff Fisher didn’t make the switch sooner.

24. Seattle Seahawks (3-5)

After falling into a terrible 14-0 hole at home against Detroit, Seattle rebounded for a 32-20 victory, led by replacement linebacker David Hawthorne’s two interceptions.

25. Buffalo Bills (3-5)

Future destination for Michael Vick? 

Tony Dungy says it’s a possibility.

26. Washington Redskins (2-6)

They aren’t this bad on paper, are they?

27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-7)

Rookie Josh Freeman looked like he knew what he was doing Sunday against Green Bay, throwing for three TDs in the Bucs’ first win of ’09.

28. Oakland Raiders (2-6)

The Raiders face the Chiefs this Sunday. 

Nice.

29. Kansas City Chiefs (1-7)

The Chiefs’ rally against Jacksonville fell just short Sunday.

30. St. Louis Rams (1-7)

Hopefully, they enjoyed their bye week, as they’ll come out of it and face the Saints.

31. Detroit Lions

Matthew Stafford’s five-interception effort against Seattle was certainly not his finest hour.

32. Cleveland Browns (1-7)

Brady Quinn was pulled after just 10 quarters of football this season, after games against Minnesota and Denver, and one half against Baltimore.

He wasn’t nearly as bad in those games (against good teams) as Derek Anderson has been (against lesser teams).

Read this and more of Taylor’s work at NFLSoup.com

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Power Rankings: Week 9

Going into week nine, the contenders are separating themselves from the rest, while others are jockeying for draft position already.

Here’s my rundown of the NFL, 1-32.

1. New Orleans Saints (7-0)

With three relatively weak opponents coming up, New Orleans could be 10-0 heading into their Monday night matchup with New England in week 12.

2. Indianapolis Colts (7-0)

The Colts face their toughest test of the season when the much improved Texans come to town Sunday.

3. Minnesota Vikings (7-1)

Brett Favre is completing 68 percent of his passes, with 16 touchdowns and just three interceptions. 

He’s certainly getting himself into the MVP race.

4. New England Patriots (5-2)

The Pats look to hand Miami its first divisional loss of the season this Sunday.

5. Denver Broncos (6-1)

The Ravens’ blitzes were giving Kyle Orton fits last week.

How will he respond to Pittsburgh’s suddenly rejuvenated D?

6. Cincinnati Bengals (5-2)

The next two games (vs. Ravens, at Steelers) will tell us quite a lot about whether or not the Bengals are for real.

7. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2)

Ben Roethlisberger is having his best statistical season to date, and is rolling along under the radar.

8. Philadelphia Eagles (5-2)

With the way their offense has been overwhelmingly dominant at times this season, how did they go to Oakland and lose?

9. Dallas Cowboys (5-2)

Their Sunday night matchup at Philadelphia this week isn’t a “must-win”, but it’s certainly a “must be competitive” after their 44-6  drubbing the last time they were in Philly.

10. Houston Texans (5-3)

The season-ending injury to TE Owen Daniels couldn’t have come at a worst time: the week before the biggest game in franchise history at Indy.

11. Baltimore Ravens (4-3)

The Ravens’ defense looked like the Ravens’ defense of years past last Sunday against the Broncos.

12. Arizona Cardinals (4-3)

Just when it looked like they were putting everything together, they lay a major egg in a home loss to Carolina.

13. New York Giants (5-3)

If they lose at home this week to San Diego, it will officially be time to panic for the G-Men.

14. Atlanta Falcons (4-3)

What better way to rebound from tough back-to-back losses than a home game with the lowly Redskins?

15. San Diego Chargers (4-3)

A win this weekend coupled with a Bronco loss puts the inconsistent Chargers right back into the divisional race.

16. Green Bay Packers (4-3)

If Green Bay hopes to return to the playoffs, they’re going to need to keep Aaron Rodgers off the ground.

17. Chicago Bears (4-3)

We’ll see if Chicago is a playoff contender over the course of their next four games: Cardinals, at 49ers, Eagles, at Vikings.

18. Miami Dolphins (3-4)

Three non-offensive touchdowns in the win at the Jets overshadowed the lack of production from Miami’s wildcat.

19. San Francisco 49ers (3-4)

Alex Smith and co. were able to hang with the Colts on the road. 

We’ll see how they handle their third-consecutive AFC South opponent when Vince Young and the Titans come to town.

20. New York Jets (4-4)

A hot start plus recent struggles equals an average team.

21. Carolina Panthers (3-4)

If they’re able to run the ball like they were Sunday against Arizona, they could slowly creep back into the NFC Wild Card picture.

22. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-4)

Maurice Jones-Drew had 177 yards rushing in the loss at Tennessee Sunday…on eight carries.

Give him the ball.

23. Buffalo Bills (3-5)

Rookie Jairus Byrd’s two interceptions Sunday in the blowout loss to Houston marked one of the Bills’ few bright spots.

24. Seattle Seahawks (2-5)

TJ Houshmandzadeh has done a whole lot of nothing during his first season in the Pacific northwest.

25. Tennessee Titans (1-6)

Vince Young looked very comfortable managing the offense in Sunday’s win over the Jags, and Chris Johnson was unbelievably good.

26. Washington Redskins (2-5)

Only this year could a team this bad still be so high in the rankings.

27. Oakland Raiders (2-6)

I mentioned this earlier, but it’s still baffling. 

How did this team beat the Eagles?

28. St. Louis Rams (1-7)

Steven Jackson’s game winning run against the Lions was his first touchdown of the season.

29. Kansas City Chiefs (1-6)

In two weeks, the Chiefs are set to avenge a loss earlier this season at the hands of the Raiders, in what’s sure to be one of the least-anticipated games in league history.

30. Detroit Lions (1-6)

I was completely shocked that this team lost to the winless Rams at home.

This is the last time I set relatively high expectations for the freaking Lions .

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-7)

The NFL’s last winless team has an extremely ominous-looking schedule the rest of the way.

32. Cleveland Browns (1-6)

Derek Anderson said he was upset that Eric Mangini decided to bench him at the end of the game against Chicago.

When your QB rating is 10, and you’ve been playing on the same level as JaMarcus Russell for several weeks, how can you possibly think that you deserve to be playing?

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

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