Another week, and two more wins for the NFL's remaining undefeated teams. The Colts had another toughie with the Ravens, while the Saints pummelled the Bucs. Will either team lose this year?
1. Indianapolis Colts (10-0, LW: 1): The Colts can thank Ed Reed for this win. If he didn't fumble that punt return, the Ravens may have won. The Colts defence did a good job shutting down Joe Flacco, but Manning didn't play that well.
2. New Orleans Saints (10-0, LW: 2): The Saints walked all over the Bucs, but that isn't saying much. Now, the Pats come to town for an epic Monday Night affair. Drew Brees will have to be on his game, and the defence better get healthy.
3. Minnesota Vikings (9-1, LW: 3): Brett Favre is now the leader in the MVP voting. He has to be, look at the numbers. He is destroying defences. That is why Adrian Peterson's numbers have been down. They may be the team to beat in the NFC.
4. New England Patriots (7-3, LW: 5): The Pats got back on track after the loss to Indy, and now they get a chance to end the undefeated bid of the Saints. Tom Brady will have to be on top of his game, and the defence will have to show up.
5. San Diego Chargers (7-3, LW: 6): The Super Chargers are a team to beat again in the AFC. They pummelled the Broncos, and now they can make a run towards another Division title. LT will have to stay hot though if they want to make a deep run.
6. Arizona Cardinals (7-3, LW: 7): The Cardinals are rolling again as well, but they have to watch the health of Kurt Warner. They have the red-hot Tennessee Titans on tap for this week, so they will have to be ready.
7. Cincinnati Bengals (7-3, LW: 4): Was this a sign of the Bungles coming back? Or was this a chance for the Bengals to get refocused after a couple of huge Division wins. They have to rebound, and they get the Browns. 8-3...
8. Dallas Cowboys (7-3, LW: 9): It wasn't pretty, but they got a tough Division win. Tony Romo needs to get back on track if this team wants to stay in the playoff race. Luckily they have the Raiders coming to town this week.
9. Green Bay Packers (6-4, LW: 11): The Packers are pretty much out of the Division race, but are favourites to snatch a Wild Card. Aaron Rodgers is having another huge year, but if he can't stay on his feet, they won't go far.
10. Philadelphia Eagles (6-4, LW: 14): The Eagles got a big win over the Bears, and they can thank Jay Cutler for that one. Now they get a tough matchup with the Redskins. They have to be ready for a physical game in this one.
11. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-4, LW: 8): The Steelers should not have lost to the Chiefs, but their special teams blew. Now they have to worry about Big Ben and his possible concussion. The Ravens are next, and you know they are ready to take shots at Ben.
12. New York Giants (6-4, LW: 15): The Giants used the Bye week to find some consistency, but it was very close. They blew a big lead, and that has to worry them going down the stretch. Eli Manning actually looked decent on Sunday.
13. Jacksonville Jaguars (6-4, LW: 16): The Jags in the Wild Card slot? Who would have thought? This team is rolling because of timely plays by the offence, and solid play from the D. They have to beat the Niners this week to stay in the hunt.
14. Baltimore Ravens (5-5, LW: 10): The Ravens almost beat the Colts, but now they have to worry about a home game against the Steelers. The offence has to get Ray Rice more involved, and Joe Flacco has to be more careful with the ball in the clutch.
15. Atlanta Falcons (5-5, LW: 13): The Falcons made a valient effort in New York, but that loss may have ended their playoff hopes. They will have to pretty much run the table now, and it starts this week against Tampa Bay.
16. Denver Broncos (6-4, LW: 12): The Broncos free-fall is in full swing now after getting demolished by the Chargers. Forget playoffs, this team will be lucky to get to eight wins now. Unless they get that offence going again.
17. Miami Dolphins (5-5, LW: 19): The Phins are back in the hunt, after a big Thursday Night win over the Panthers. The offence looked good, and they will have to avoid a trap against the Bills. Ricky Williams may carry this team back to the playoffs.
18. Tennessee Titans (4-6, LW: 20): Another week, another win for Vince Young and the Titans. Now they can officially get back in the race with an upset over the Cards. Just saying, but the Titans are unbeaten since Jeff Fisher wore the Peyton Manning jersey. Just saying...
19. Houston Texans (5-5, LW: 17): The Texans blew yet another big game, and now they are a question again. The Colts come to town this week, and they can almost forget about playoffs if they don't win this one. They have to get Steve Slaton more involved again.
20. Chicago Bears (4-6, LW: 18): This is not a playoff team, because Jay Cutler can't throw to open receivers. I'm worried that the Bears blew it big time with this trade, but time will tell. He won't get better until they get Matt Forte going.
21. Carolina Panthers (4-6, LW: 21): The Panthers blew a big chance to get back in the hunt, and again it falls on Delhomme. They need to address the QB situation in the offseason. They are wasting that talented backfield.
22. San Francisco 49ers (4-6, LW: 22): The Niners can't win anymore, and this defence isn't playing well. Now they will try to play spoiler against the Jags. Alex Smith has been solid, but needs to step up in the first half of games.
23. Kansas City Chiefs (3-7, LW: 25): The Chiefs got a major upset over the Steelers, thanks to Jamaal Charles. Now they can try to build some momentum for next year. This week, Chris Chambers gets a chance for revenge against the Chargers.
24. Oakland Raiders (3-7, LW: 28): Wow, is this the start of something in Oakland? Not likely, but they did a good job getting a win over the Bengals. Bruce Gradkowski played well enough to win, but he isn't much of an upgrade over JaMarcus Russell.
25. New York Jets (4-6, LW: 24): The Jets kept it close in New England, but Mark Sanchez is throwing way to many INTs. They have to calm him down and get him ready for next year.
26. Seattle Seahawks (3-7, LW: 23): The got destroyed by Minnesota, and that was pretty much expected. I really don't know what to say about this team. They aren't rebuilding, but they can't win. Let the rebuild begin.
27. Washington Redskins (3-7, LW: 26): The Skins would have beat Dallas if their kicker could kick straight. Nevertheless, it is time to start getting ready for next year, minus their two top RBs. They have to find a lot of new players at skill positions.
28. Buffalo Bills (3-7, LW: 27): Terrell Owens finally had a major impact, and the Bills still couldn't win. They looked good in the loss, and will have to build towards next year. I don't think Ryan Fitzpatrick will be better in the long run.
29. Detroit Lions (2-8, LW: 31): I bet Matt Stafford wishes he could play Cleveland every week. What a coming out party for him, but he is likely to miss Thanksgiving against the Pack. Tough break for a tough kid.
30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-9, LW: 29): They went out and got an early lead against the Saints, but got demolished after that. Good job getting Josh Freeman in there, but they need to find him some playmakers.
31. St Louis Rams (1-9, LW: 30): The Rams will be without Marc Bulger for the rest of the year, which means Kyle Boller will start. I think they should scour the free agent wire for a young QB who needs a home. They need to develop someone.
32. Cleveland Browns (1-9, LW: 32): Why on Earth did Mangini call that time out? At least the offence got going. Brady Quinn looked like a NFL quarterback for the first time, which is a good sign for this team.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Week Eleven Power Rankings
A change at the top, despite the fact that my top team won again this week. While the Saints and Colts are both 9-0, I am looking at HOW each team won in this weeks version of JVZ's Power Rankings.s
1. Indianapolis Colts (9-0, LW: 2): After the epic comeback Sunday night, there is no question the Colts are the class of the AFC. Manning continues to get it done, and Reggie Wayne is still making clutch grabs. Now they go to Baltimore.
2. New Orleans Saints (9-0, LW: 1): They lose the top spot after almost blowing the game against the Rams. I realize they were without most of their secondary, but come on, they should have scored 90 points against this team.
3. Minnesota Vikings (8-1, LW: 3): They got a freebie this week against the Lions, and they have a stranglehold on the NFC North. They have to keep pace with the Saints, and they get Seattle this week. Should be a big day for AP.
4. Cincinnati Bengals (7-2, LW: 5): They are now the best team in the AFC North. They are in good shape for a possible Bye week as well. Now, they need to avoid a let down and keep winning. It may be hard without Cedric Benson. Should be OK this week against the Raiders.
5. New England Patriots (6-3, LW: 4): The Pats should be fired up after that loss, and that is scary for the rest of the league. The call on fourth down was foolish, but Manning probably would have scored anyway. Pats go for revenge this week against the Jets.
6. San Diego Chargers (6-3, LW: 9): The Super Chargers are hot again, and mostly because LaDainian Tomlinson is scoring again. They get another showdown with the Broncos this week, and can take over the AFC West with a win.
7. Arizona Cardinals (6-3, LW: 11): The Cardinals are red-hot again, and they got a key division win against the Seahawks. This week they get a gimme against the Rams. Beanie Wells is establishing himself as the starting running back.
8. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3, LW: 6): The Steelers couldn't get anything going on offence, and now are way behind the Bengals in the division race. They are in great shape for a playoff spot still, and they get back on track this week in Kansas City.
9. Dallas Cowboys (6-3, LW: 7): The Cowboys need to figure out what they are after that game against the Packers. The offence struggled, but they came on late. The good news is they have the Redskins and the Raiders for their next two games.
10. Baltimore Ravens (5-4, LW: 13): The Ravens got back on track against the Browns, but have the Colts on tap for this week. The good news is: the defence played better. But, it was against the Browns.
11. Green Bay Packers (5-4, LW: 15): The Packers played inspired in beating the Cowboys, but can they turn this into a playoff run? The offence didn't play well, but they got on the board when they had to. They get a tough task this week against the 49ers.
12. Denver Broncos (6-3, LW: 8): Remember when this team was 6-0? What a mess, how can you lose to Washington? The running game is gone, and the defence hasn't done much lately. Now they face the Chargers again, trying to seal up the division.
13. Atlanta Falcons (5-4, LW: 10): They may be in the market for a kicker soon, after veteran Jason Elam missed another key field goal. However, the offence hasn't done much in their losing skid. Now they face the Giants, in a battle of two teams that are seemingly lost.
14. Philadelphia Eagles (5-4, LW: 12): The Eagles have dropped two in a row to good teams, and now travel to Chicago to face an inconsistant Bears team. Losing Brian Westbrook will hurt, but the offence should be OK.
15. New York Giants (5-4, LW: 14): The Giants come off the Bye with a showdown against a reeling Falcons team. They need to find their offence again, or the losing will continue.
16. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-4, LW: 18): The Jags are surprisingly still in the playoff race, but just barely. They need to keep rolling this week against Buffalo. David Garrard has been up and down all year, and he needs to take control of this team if they are to have a hope of a playoff birth.
17. Houston Texans (5-4, LW: 17): They come off the Bye with a Monday Night Showdown against the red-hot Titans. They have to choose on a running back and stick with him. They are still in the race, but just barely.
18. Chicago Bears (4-5, LW: 16): The Bears need to find their way. Jay Cutler has stunk recently, and needs to rebound against the Eagles on Sunday Night. If the running game doesn't get going soon, their season is over.
19. Miami Dolphins (4-5, LW: 19): The Dolphins had a tough time getting rid of the Bucs, but they got the win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. They go to Carolina this week, and if they win they get back to .500. The defence needs to be better.
20. Tennessee Titans (3-6, LW: 22): The Titans are 3-0 with Vince Young at the helm. The defence has been a lot better, and they might be slowly getting back in the race. It may be too little, too late for this team, but Jeff Fisher may be safe.
21. Carolina Panthers (4-5, LW: 24): The Panthers are back in the hunt after their upset of the Falcons. Jake Delhomme is playing smart, and the defence has done a good job. They get a winnable game this week against the Dolphins.
22. San Francisco 49ers (4-5, LW: 25): The Niners got the win over the Bears, but honestly, they aren't that good. The offence isn't working out, even with Alex Smith. The defence has been great all year, and this will have to continue against the Packers.
23. Seattle Seahawks (3-6, LW: 20): The Seahawks head into Minnesota this week needing a win to keep their season alive. Now Julius Jones is out. The offence has been a disappointment, and the Seahawks need to start the rebuilding process.
24. New York Jets (4-5, LW: 21): The Jets are in trouble. They are under .500 again, and the Patriots are next on the slate. I think they have to focus now on getting the peices in place for a run next season.
25. Kansas City Chiefs (2-7, LW: 26): This was their chance to get a decisive win over a bad team. Instead, they struggled to get past the Raiders, and proved this team isn't very good. Jamaal Charles looked solid, and they will need that to continue now that Larry Johnson is gone.
26. Washington Redskins (3-6, LW: 27): Even though they just beat the Broncos, they don't move up too far. This team has problems that need to be fixed. Just asking, but is Ladell Betts still the answer with a healthy Clinton Portis?
27. Buffalo Bills (3-6, LW: 24): The Bills are considering going with Ryan Fitzpatrick for good now. Not a good decision, but Trent Edwards wasn't getting it done. The defence had been good all year, but they got rocked by the Titans.
28. Oakland Raiders (2-7, LW: 28): The Raiders couldn't even beat the Chiefs. This is how bad the situation is in the Black Hole. They need major changes, and they need to start hitting on their draft picks. Charlie Frye isn't the answer either.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-8, LW: 29): After their upset win over Green Bay, the Bucs nearly got another win on the board against Miami. Josh Freeman has looked good, but there isn't much talent around him. The defence needs work.
30. St Louis Rams (1-8, LW: 30): Props for keeping with the Saints, but they had a chance at the end and blew it. Marc Bulger continues to struggle, but Steven Jackson is running hard. They need more talent on both sides of the ball.
31. Detroit Lions (1-8, LW: 31): The Lions got smashed again, this time by the Vikings. They actually may get a win this week, as they take on the lowly Browns. Matt Stafford to Calvin Johnson is coming around, and will be a force in the future.
32. Cleveland Browns (1-8, LW: 32): Attempt #2 at Brady Quinn as a starter didn't start out very well. The offence looked lost. The defence did a good job shutting down the Ravens attack, but folded early in the second half.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Week Nine Power Rankings
A missed field goal and a late collapse are all that kept the league's two unbeaten teams...unbeaten.
As we head towards the playoff race, most of the divisions are all but wrapped up. But, there are still a few races to keep an eye on.
1. New Orleans Saints (8-0, LW: 1): After another rough first half, the Saints rebounded to stay unbeaten. They have a laugher this week in St Louis, so they should head into next week 9-0.
2. Indianapolis Colts (8-0, LW: 2): They were a Kris Brown missed field goal away from possibly losing their first game. Peyton Manning struggled after a fast start. They can't have him throwing 50 passes every week.
3. Minnesota Vikings (7-1, LW: 3): They come off the Bye with a showdown against the lowly Lions. Now, it's time to see whether Brett Favre can still do it in the second half of the season.
4. New England Patriots (6-2, LW: 4): The Pats got the job done against the Wild Dolphins, but it wasn't easy. Tom Brady struggled at times, but in the end he was the best player on the field. Now they go to Indy for a critical match up.
5.Cincinnati Bengals (6-2, LW: 6): The Bengals have now swept the Ravens, and have the chance to do the same this week against the Steelers. If Carson Palmer and the offence continue to play at a high level, they will be tough to beat.
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2, LW: 7): The Steelers are rolling now. This week, they get a chance to take the power back in the AFC North with a home game against the Bengals. This time, they have Troy Polamalu in the line up. That certainly helps.
7. Dallas Cowboys (6-2, LW: 8): The Cowboys are first in the NFC East, and they won a big game to get there. Tony Romo continues to play well in November, but can they carry this new-found success into the latter stages of the season?
8. Denver Broncos (6-2, LW: 5): The Broncos got shelled Monday Night. They couldn't do anything on offence, and they couldn't stop the Steelers. Now they face a desperate Redskins team. If the Broncos lose, they may be in trouble.
9. San Diego Chargers (5-3, LW: 13): The Chargers are getting it right at the right time. That late touchdown to beat the Giants may have saved their division chances. They have a tough home game on tap this week against the Eagles, before the rematch against Denver.
10. Atlanta Falcons (5-3, LW: 14): After a couple tough losses, the Falcons rebounded against the Redskins. They needed a win, and they will need some more to nail down a wild card slot in the NFC. They go to Carolina this week for a tough division matchup.
11. Arizona Cardinals (5-3, LW: 16): The Cards got back on the winning track last week, but they battle for the division crown this week against the Seahawks. If they lose, the division gets interesting again.
12. Philadelphia Eagles (5-3, LW: 9): The Eagles were dealt a tough home loss Sunday against the Cowboys. The good news is they kept it close. Now, they still are in second in the division, but travel to San Diego this week.
13. Baltimore Ravens (4-4, LW: 10): The Ravens division hopes are all but over, and they are becoming a long shot to even make a playoff run. However, there is a lot of talent on this team, but the wins have to start this week in Cleveland.
14. New York Giants (5-4, LW: 11): The G-Men continue to fall, but they kept it close against the Chargers. They can't get it right anymore. Was that early start due to facing bad teams, or are they primed for a late run?
15. Green Bay Packers (4-4, LW: 12): Disgusting. There is no way they should have dropped that game to Tampa Bay. The offence stunk, and the defence couldn't stop a rookie QB playing his first game. They need to rally after that.
16. Chicago Bears (4-4, LW: 15): The Bears dropped a winnable game at home against the Cards. Now, they pretty much have to run the table to grab an NFC playoff spot. They travel to San Fran for a Thursday Night showdown needing a big win.
17. Houston Texans (5-4, LW: 17): The Texans had a chance to make a statement, but were unable to beat the Colts. They were in the game all the way, so that has to be a boost. However, time is running out, and they enter the Bye needing some wins.
18. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-4, LW: 21): The Jags got an easy win over the Chiefs, and now have to shift thier focus on the Jets. Maurice Jones-Drew has been running wild in recent weeks, and is keeping the Jags in the hunt.
19. Miami Dolphins (3-5, LW: 18): The Phins played tough in New England, but couldn't seal the deal. Chad Henne has been solid, but they need more plays from the wide receivers if they are to have a shot at another playoff birth.
20. Seattle Seahawks (3-5, LW: 24): The Seahawks got a much-needed win against the Lions. Now, they have a chance to upset the Cardinals and get back in the division race. The defence will have to be good.
21. New York Jets (4-4, LW: 19): The Jets take to the field this week against the Jags with a lot of questions. Can they get the offence rolling again? What happened to the defence? They have to get these answered going into the last half of the season.
22. Tennessee Titans (2-7, LW: 25): The Titans are alive under Vince Young...who would have thought? Chris Johnson is garnering some MVP hype now, and while they won't likely make the playoffs, they may be saving Jeff Fisher's job.
23. Carolina Panthers (3-5, LW: 20): The Panthers are definetely playing better than they were early in the season, but they aren't as good as the Saints. They can still have a playoff shot with a win against the Falcons.
24. Buffalo Bills (3-5, LW: 23): They come off the Bye hoping to get Trent Edwards back. Don't quite know why, as he didn't throw to WRs. Oh well, the Bills are a lost cause anyway due to defensive injuries. They will be in the Mike Shanahan sweepstakes soon.
25. San Francisco 49ers (3-5, LW: 22): The Niners are going in the wrong direction. ESPN attributes this to giving in to Michael Crabtree. I think he has been a good addition to the offence, but may have brought down the locker room. Who knows?
26. Kansas City Chiefs (1-7, LW: 26): The Chiefs are talented on offence, but the defence continues to let them down. Jamaal Charles is now the RB, and he has the talent to do great things. Chris Chambers was a great pick up.
27. Washington Redskins (2-6, LW: 27): What a mess. They couldn't even stay in it against the Falcons, and now they have to play without Clinton Portis. Denver comes to town after losing two straight, so maybe the Redskins will wake up and surprise us.
28. Oakland Raiders (2-6, LW: 28): The Raiders come off the Bye hoping to get Darren McFadden back. Won't do much good, but makes for a battle in the backfield with Justin Fargas. They get the Chiefs this week, and that is a winnable game.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-7, LW: 32): They get a huge upset over the Packers, but why do I feel like that was their only win? Josh Freeman was OK, but put up three TDs. They get the Phins this week, which is another winnable game.
30. St Louis Rams (1-7, LW: 29): The Rams come off the Bye with a matchup against the Saints. Ouch. Tough sledding for a team on a one-game winning streak. They have to take a QB in the first round next year. Marc Bulger is no longer the answer.
31. Detroit Lions (1-7, LW: 30): That win seems decades ago. They kept in the game against Seattle, but we all know what happens to the Lions. They blow games. Now they have Brett and the Vikings. Sorry Lions fans, your next long losing streak appears to have started.
32. Cleveland Browns (1-7, LW: 31): Another week, another QB change. Now Brady Quinn gets his last chance in Cleveland. I have never been impressed with him, but he has the talent to do good things. Tough matchup against Baltimore this week though.
As we head towards the playoff race, most of the divisions are all but wrapped up. But, there are still a few races to keep an eye on.
1. New Orleans Saints (8-0, LW: 1): After another rough first half, the Saints rebounded to stay unbeaten. They have a laugher this week in St Louis, so they should head into next week 9-0.
2. Indianapolis Colts (8-0, LW: 2): They were a Kris Brown missed field goal away from possibly losing their first game. Peyton Manning struggled after a fast start. They can't have him throwing 50 passes every week.
3. Minnesota Vikings (7-1, LW: 3): They come off the Bye with a showdown against the lowly Lions. Now, it's time to see whether Brett Favre can still do it in the second half of the season.
4. New England Patriots (6-2, LW: 4): The Pats got the job done against the Wild Dolphins, but it wasn't easy. Tom Brady struggled at times, but in the end he was the best player on the field. Now they go to Indy for a critical match up.
5.Cincinnati Bengals (6-2, LW: 6): The Bengals have now swept the Ravens, and have the chance to do the same this week against the Steelers. If Carson Palmer and the offence continue to play at a high level, they will be tough to beat.
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-2, LW: 7): The Steelers are rolling now. This week, they get a chance to take the power back in the AFC North with a home game against the Bengals. This time, they have Troy Polamalu in the line up. That certainly helps.
7. Dallas Cowboys (6-2, LW: 8): The Cowboys are first in the NFC East, and they won a big game to get there. Tony Romo continues to play well in November, but can they carry this new-found success into the latter stages of the season?
8. Denver Broncos (6-2, LW: 5): The Broncos got shelled Monday Night. They couldn't do anything on offence, and they couldn't stop the Steelers. Now they face a desperate Redskins team. If the Broncos lose, they may be in trouble.
9. San Diego Chargers (5-3, LW: 13): The Chargers are getting it right at the right time. That late touchdown to beat the Giants may have saved their division chances. They have a tough home game on tap this week against the Eagles, before the rematch against Denver.
10. Atlanta Falcons (5-3, LW: 14): After a couple tough losses, the Falcons rebounded against the Redskins. They needed a win, and they will need some more to nail down a wild card slot in the NFC. They go to Carolina this week for a tough division matchup.
11. Arizona Cardinals (5-3, LW: 16): The Cards got back on the winning track last week, but they battle for the division crown this week against the Seahawks. If they lose, the division gets interesting again.
12. Philadelphia Eagles (5-3, LW: 9): The Eagles were dealt a tough home loss Sunday against the Cowboys. The good news is they kept it close. Now, they still are in second in the division, but travel to San Diego this week.
13. Baltimore Ravens (4-4, LW: 10): The Ravens division hopes are all but over, and they are becoming a long shot to even make a playoff run. However, there is a lot of talent on this team, but the wins have to start this week in Cleveland.
14. New York Giants (5-4, LW: 11): The G-Men continue to fall, but they kept it close against the Chargers. They can't get it right anymore. Was that early start due to facing bad teams, or are they primed for a late run?
15. Green Bay Packers (4-4, LW: 12): Disgusting. There is no way they should have dropped that game to Tampa Bay. The offence stunk, and the defence couldn't stop a rookie QB playing his first game. They need to rally after that.
16. Chicago Bears (4-4, LW: 15): The Bears dropped a winnable game at home against the Cards. Now, they pretty much have to run the table to grab an NFC playoff spot. They travel to San Fran for a Thursday Night showdown needing a big win.
17. Houston Texans (5-4, LW: 17): The Texans had a chance to make a statement, but were unable to beat the Colts. They were in the game all the way, so that has to be a boost. However, time is running out, and they enter the Bye needing some wins.
18. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-4, LW: 21): The Jags got an easy win over the Chiefs, and now have to shift thier focus on the Jets. Maurice Jones-Drew has been running wild in recent weeks, and is keeping the Jags in the hunt.
19. Miami Dolphins (3-5, LW: 18): The Phins played tough in New England, but couldn't seal the deal. Chad Henne has been solid, but they need more plays from the wide receivers if they are to have a shot at another playoff birth.
20. Seattle Seahawks (3-5, LW: 24): The Seahawks got a much-needed win against the Lions. Now, they have a chance to upset the Cardinals and get back in the division race. The defence will have to be good.
21. New York Jets (4-4, LW: 19): The Jets take to the field this week against the Jags with a lot of questions. Can they get the offence rolling again? What happened to the defence? They have to get these answered going into the last half of the season.
22. Tennessee Titans (2-7, LW: 25): The Titans are alive under Vince Young...who would have thought? Chris Johnson is garnering some MVP hype now, and while they won't likely make the playoffs, they may be saving Jeff Fisher's job.
23. Carolina Panthers (3-5, LW: 20): The Panthers are definetely playing better than they were early in the season, but they aren't as good as the Saints. They can still have a playoff shot with a win against the Falcons.
24. Buffalo Bills (3-5, LW: 23): They come off the Bye hoping to get Trent Edwards back. Don't quite know why, as he didn't throw to WRs. Oh well, the Bills are a lost cause anyway due to defensive injuries. They will be in the Mike Shanahan sweepstakes soon.
25. San Francisco 49ers (3-5, LW: 22): The Niners are going in the wrong direction. ESPN attributes this to giving in to Michael Crabtree. I think he has been a good addition to the offence, but may have brought down the locker room. Who knows?
26. Kansas City Chiefs (1-7, LW: 26): The Chiefs are talented on offence, but the defence continues to let them down. Jamaal Charles is now the RB, and he has the talent to do great things. Chris Chambers was a great pick up.
27. Washington Redskins (2-6, LW: 27): What a mess. They couldn't even stay in it against the Falcons, and now they have to play without Clinton Portis. Denver comes to town after losing two straight, so maybe the Redskins will wake up and surprise us.
28. Oakland Raiders (2-6, LW: 28): The Raiders come off the Bye hoping to get Darren McFadden back. Won't do much good, but makes for a battle in the backfield with Justin Fargas. They get the Chiefs this week, and that is a winnable game.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-7, LW: 32): They get a huge upset over the Packers, but why do I feel like that was their only win? Josh Freeman was OK, but put up three TDs. They get the Phins this week, which is another winnable game.
30. St Louis Rams (1-7, LW: 29): The Rams come off the Bye with a matchup against the Saints. Ouch. Tough sledding for a team on a one-game winning streak. They have to take a QB in the first round next year. Marc Bulger is no longer the answer.
31. Detroit Lions (1-7, LW: 30): That win seems decades ago. They kept in the game against Seattle, but we all know what happens to the Lions. They blow games. Now they have Brett and the Vikings. Sorry Lions fans, your next long losing streak appears to have started.
32. Cleveland Browns (1-7, LW: 31): Another week, another QB change. Now Brady Quinn gets his last chance in Cleveland. I have never been impressed with him, but he has the talent to do good things. Tough matchup against Baltimore this week though.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Week Nine Power Rankings
...And then there were two. With the Ravens knocking off the Broncos, we are down to two unbeatens in the league. Consequently, there is only one team that has yet to win a game.
1. New Orleans Saints (7-0, LW: 1): The Saints took care of business yet again this week, knocking off the Falcons. The defence did a good job shutting down Matt Ryan, but Michael Turner was able to run it on them. They face a tough task in shutting down the running game of Carolina.2. Indianapolis Colts (7-0, LW: 2): They proved that they can get the tough wins as well against the 49ers, and now they have a tough division game at hand against Houston. The defence did a good job, but the Texans have a lot of weapons at their disposal.3. Minnesota Vikings (7-1, LW: 5): The Vikes rebounded nicely after the loss in Pittsburgh. Brett Favre got his revenge in Lambeau, and the Vikes have a three game lead in the NFC North heading into the Bye. The defence got to Aaron Rodgers all day.4. New England Patriots (5-2, LW: 4): The Pats come off their Bye with a home game against Miami. We will see if they can stop the Wildcat this time around. On the plus side, Tom Brady was red-hot before the break.5. Denver Broncos (6-1, LW: 3): It was a tough loss against Baltimore, and now they have the defending Champs coming into the Mile High City. They may need Kyle Orton to come alive and get them the win this week.6. Cincinnati Bengals (5-2, LW: 6): The Bengals stay put for this week, but have a tough home game on the slate against Baltimore. Carson Palmer has been great all year, and they will likely need him to be huge again against a tough Ravens D.7. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2, LW: 7): The Steelers come off their Bye with a tough showdown in Denver. On the plus side, the defence played very well in their last game, and they are catching the Broncos after thier first loss. Advantage: Champs.8. Dallas Cowboys (5-2, LW: 9): The Cowboys avoided a let down against Seattle, and now they get a chance for revenge in Philly. Tony Romo has been on fire lately, and the defence has come alive in recent weeks.9. Philadelphia Eagles (5-2, LW: 12): The Eagles dominated the Giants from the get-go, and may be the best team in the NFC East. To prove it, they will have to beat a red-hot Dallas team. DeSean Jackson is a beast.10. Baltimore Ravens (4-3, LW: 14): The Ravens handed the Broncos their first loss of the season, and they did it with (surprise) defence. That was the best showing of the year from that unit, and the offence keeps rolling as well behind Joe Flacco and Ray Rice.11. New York Giants (5-3, LW: 8): The Giants are losers of three straight, and are in trouble as the playoff run begins. Eli Manning has been brutal in recent weeks, and that will have to change if the G-Men want to win this division.12. Green Bay Packers (4-3, LW: 10): Green Bay exits the top 10 after a tough home loss to Minnesota. They fell behind early, but did a good job rallying for a decent comeback. Aaron Rodgers has nothing to be ashamed about...the offensive line does though.13. San Diego Chargers (4-3, LW: 17): The Super Chargers are rolling again, and nothing like back-to-back games against the Chiefs and Raiders to cure what ails a team. LT is back scoring touchdowns, and the defence has played well.14. Atlanta Falcons (4-3, LW: 11): Another tough loss, this time at the hands of the Saints, has the Falcons thinking Wild Card. They have the Redskins coming to town this week, so they should get back on track. Michael Turner finally got going.15. Chicago Bears (4-3, LW: 15): We are not going to count this win over the Browns. They stink, and Chicago beat them down. This might be a confidence boost for Jay Cutler, who had really struggled in recent weeks. They have a tough home game against the Cards on tap.16. Arizona Cardinals (4-3, LW: 13): After the huge win over the Giants, the Cards suffered a letdown against the Panthers. They couldn't stop the run, and that was the difference. Where is the offence? Now they go to the Windy City for a critical NFC matchup with the Bears.17. Houston Texans (5-3, LW: 19): The Texans have a good chance of locking up their first winning season, and playoffs are a definite possibility. A victory in Indianapolis would be massive for this team. They have to figure out who is going to run the ball.18. Miami Dolphins (3-4, LW: 23): The Dolphins can only beat the Jets. Now, they take the Wildcat to New England to try for a big upset to keep their division hopes alive. The defence will have to play its best game of the year.19. New York Jets (4-4, LW: 16): Why can't they beat the Dolphins? The defence continues to struggle, and now the Jets are not looking like a playoff team. At least the running game has been solid. Thomas Jones is having another huge year.20. Carolina Panthers (3-4, LW: 24): A huge upset over the Cards has this team pumped up again. It's amazing how a team can play when their QB throws the ball to the right team. They key will be keeping him upright if he plays.21. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-4, LW: 18): Typical Jags. Just as you think they are getting hot, they go and blow a game against a winless team. At least the move to Maurice Jones-Drew has worked out. David Garrard continues to struggle.22. San Francisco 49ers (3-4, LW: 20): The Niners provided a tough test for the unbeaten Colts, but couldn't get the job done. Now, they face the Titans coming off thier first win. If the Niners lose here, their playoff hopes likely go as well.23. Buffalo Bills (3-5, LW: 21): The Bills had a chance at .500 go down with that loss to Houston. They need to spend this Bye week finding an offence. If they do, they could still make a decent run.24. Seattle Seahawks (2-5, LW: 22): The Hawks got smoked in Dallas, and they have to do a better job protecting Matt Hasselbeck. They should get back on the winning track this week, as they play host to the lowly Lions.25. Tennessee Titans (1-6, LW: 29): Is this a sign of life from this team? They got the job done in Jacksonville, and now they travel to the Bay Area to take on a reeling 49ers squad. The move to Vince Young was one that should have been made way earlier.26. Kansas City Chiefs (1-6, LW: 25): The Chiefs come off the Bye with a matchup in Jacksonville. The signing of Chris Chambers should open up the passing game. If they can run the ball, the offence should pick it up. If only they could stop somebody...27. Washington Redskins (2-5, LW: 27): The Redskins come off the Bye in need of some wins. They travel to Atlanta to face a Falcons team that has lost two straight. If the offence can do anything, this is a winnable game.28. Oakland Raiders (2-6, LW: 28): The Raiders continue to lose, but at least they are keeping games close. Justin Fargas is running hard, and the offence is playing a bit better. The defence has to turn it around now.29. St Louis Rams (1-7, LW: 32): The Rams finally exit the NFL's gutter, ending their 17-game losing skid against the Lions. Steven Jackson would be in the MVP running if his team was winning games. 30. Detroit Lions (1-6, LW: 25): The Lions are officially back. They have dropped their last four after their unlikely win, and the latest was to the Rams. The Lions are showing no hope for the future, and until Calvin Johnson is healthy, they won't.31. Cleveland Browns (1-7, LW: 30): Browns fans should all send Trent Edwards Christmas presents this year. His struggles are the only reason this team has a win. What a mess. Firing the GM won't make a difference, they have no talent.32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-7, LW: 31): The Bucs are now officially the worst team in football. It will be interesting to see if rookie Head Coach Raheem Morris makes it out of this year. They have to make the move to Josh Freeman.
1. New Orleans Saints (7-0, LW: 1): The Saints took care of business yet again this week, knocking off the Falcons. The defence did a good job shutting down Matt Ryan, but Michael Turner was able to run it on them. They face a tough task in shutting down the running game of Carolina.2. Indianapolis Colts (7-0, LW: 2): They proved that they can get the tough wins as well against the 49ers, and now they have a tough division game at hand against Houston. The defence did a good job, but the Texans have a lot of weapons at their disposal.3. Minnesota Vikings (7-1, LW: 5): The Vikes rebounded nicely after the loss in Pittsburgh. Brett Favre got his revenge in Lambeau, and the Vikes have a three game lead in the NFC North heading into the Bye. The defence got to Aaron Rodgers all day.4. New England Patriots (5-2, LW: 4): The Pats come off their Bye with a home game against Miami. We will see if they can stop the Wildcat this time around. On the plus side, Tom Brady was red-hot before the break.5. Denver Broncos (6-1, LW: 3): It was a tough loss against Baltimore, and now they have the defending Champs coming into the Mile High City. They may need Kyle Orton to come alive and get them the win this week.6. Cincinnati Bengals (5-2, LW: 6): The Bengals stay put for this week, but have a tough home game on the slate against Baltimore. Carson Palmer has been great all year, and they will likely need him to be huge again against a tough Ravens D.7. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2, LW: 7): The Steelers come off their Bye with a tough showdown in Denver. On the plus side, the defence played very well in their last game, and they are catching the Broncos after thier first loss. Advantage: Champs.8. Dallas Cowboys (5-2, LW: 9): The Cowboys avoided a let down against Seattle, and now they get a chance for revenge in Philly. Tony Romo has been on fire lately, and the defence has come alive in recent weeks.9. Philadelphia Eagles (5-2, LW: 12): The Eagles dominated the Giants from the get-go, and may be the best team in the NFC East. To prove it, they will have to beat a red-hot Dallas team. DeSean Jackson is a beast.10. Baltimore Ravens (4-3, LW: 14): The Ravens handed the Broncos their first loss of the season, and they did it with (surprise) defence. That was the best showing of the year from that unit, and the offence keeps rolling as well behind Joe Flacco and Ray Rice.11. New York Giants (5-3, LW: 8): The Giants are losers of three straight, and are in trouble as the playoff run begins. Eli Manning has been brutal in recent weeks, and that will have to change if the G-Men want to win this division.12. Green Bay Packers (4-3, LW: 10): Green Bay exits the top 10 after a tough home loss to Minnesota. They fell behind early, but did a good job rallying for a decent comeback. Aaron Rodgers has nothing to be ashamed about...the offensive line does though.13. San Diego Chargers (4-3, LW: 17): The Super Chargers are rolling again, and nothing like back-to-back games against the Chiefs and Raiders to cure what ails a team. LT is back scoring touchdowns, and the defence has played well.14. Atlanta Falcons (4-3, LW: 11): Another tough loss, this time at the hands of the Saints, has the Falcons thinking Wild Card. They have the Redskins coming to town this week, so they should get back on track. Michael Turner finally got going.15. Chicago Bears (4-3, LW: 15): We are not going to count this win over the Browns. They stink, and Chicago beat them down. This might be a confidence boost for Jay Cutler, who had really struggled in recent weeks. They have a tough home game against the Cards on tap.16. Arizona Cardinals (4-3, LW: 13): After the huge win over the Giants, the Cards suffered a letdown against the Panthers. They couldn't stop the run, and that was the difference. Where is the offence? Now they go to the Windy City for a critical NFC matchup with the Bears.17. Houston Texans (5-3, LW: 19): The Texans have a good chance of locking up their first winning season, and playoffs are a definite possibility. A victory in Indianapolis would be massive for this team. They have to figure out who is going to run the ball.18. Miami Dolphins (3-4, LW: 23): The Dolphins can only beat the Jets. Now, they take the Wildcat to New England to try for a big upset to keep their division hopes alive. The defence will have to play its best game of the year.19. New York Jets (4-4, LW: 16): Why can't they beat the Dolphins? The defence continues to struggle, and now the Jets are not looking like a playoff team. At least the running game has been solid. Thomas Jones is having another huge year.20. Carolina Panthers (3-4, LW: 24): A huge upset over the Cards has this team pumped up again. It's amazing how a team can play when their QB throws the ball to the right team. They key will be keeping him upright if he plays.21. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-4, LW: 18): Typical Jags. Just as you think they are getting hot, they go and blow a game against a winless team. At least the move to Maurice Jones-Drew has worked out. David Garrard continues to struggle.22. San Francisco 49ers (3-4, LW: 20): The Niners provided a tough test for the unbeaten Colts, but couldn't get the job done. Now, they face the Titans coming off thier first win. If the Niners lose here, their playoff hopes likely go as well.23. Buffalo Bills (3-5, LW: 21): The Bills had a chance at .500 go down with that loss to Houston. They need to spend this Bye week finding an offence. If they do, they could still make a decent run.24. Seattle Seahawks (2-5, LW: 22): The Hawks got smoked in Dallas, and they have to do a better job protecting Matt Hasselbeck. They should get back on the winning track this week, as they play host to the lowly Lions.25. Tennessee Titans (1-6, LW: 29): Is this a sign of life from this team? They got the job done in Jacksonville, and now they travel to the Bay Area to take on a reeling 49ers squad. The move to Vince Young was one that should have been made way earlier.26. Kansas City Chiefs (1-6, LW: 25): The Chiefs come off the Bye with a matchup in Jacksonville. The signing of Chris Chambers should open up the passing game. If they can run the ball, the offence should pick it up. If only they could stop somebody...27. Washington Redskins (2-5, LW: 27): The Redskins come off the Bye in need of some wins. They travel to Atlanta to face a Falcons team that has lost two straight. If the offence can do anything, this is a winnable game.28. Oakland Raiders (2-6, LW: 28): The Raiders continue to lose, but at least they are keeping games close. Justin Fargas is running hard, and the offence is playing a bit better. The defence has to turn it around now.29. St Louis Rams (1-7, LW: 32): The Rams finally exit the NFL's gutter, ending their 17-game losing skid against the Lions. Steven Jackson would be in the MVP running if his team was winning games. 30. Detroit Lions (1-6, LW: 25): The Lions are officially back. They have dropped their last four after their unlikely win, and the latest was to the Rams. The Lions are showing no hope for the future, and until Calvin Johnson is healthy, they won't.31. Cleveland Browns (1-7, LW: 30): Browns fans should all send Trent Edwards Christmas presents this year. His struggles are the only reason this team has a win. What a mess. Firing the GM won't make a difference, they have no talent.32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-7, LW: 31): The Bucs are now officially the worst team in football. It will be interesting to see if rookie Head Coach Raheem Morris makes it out of this year. They have to make the move to Josh Freeman.
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