NFL Power Rankings-Week 17

Here we go folks..the final week of the NFL is upon us and the only spot left is the 6th seed in both the AFC and NFC. The Titans control their own destiny with a win getting them in that spot or a loss forking it over to the Browns. In the NFC, the Redskins will clinch it with a win, the Vikings will clinch it with a win and a Redskins loss, and the Saints will clinch with a win and a Redskins and Vikings loss.


1. New England Patriots
Move from Week 16: 0
Why?: Their final week against the G-men should be interesting. Brady needs two TD passes to break Manning's single season record and Moss needs to receive both of them to break Jerry Rice's record. Don't expect Brady to be benched until this is accomplished.



2. Dallas Cowboys
Move from Week 16: 0
Why?: I loathe the Cowboys, but I am the only person to put them at the #2 spot. Romo seemed back on track with a 7 point win over the Panthers. If they rest their starters they'll be giving the Redskins a good chance to take the 6th seed.


3. Indianapolis Colts
Move from Week 16: 0
Why?: They destroyed a decent Texans team. They played Addai too much during the game however, who is now suffering from an injury (although minor).


4. Jacksonville Jaguars
Move from Week 16: +1
Why?: If I had to pick a team in the playoffs to upset the Pats it would be this team. Seriously. Fred Taylor is unstoppable and with him and Jones-Drew that have one of the best 1-2 punches in the NFL.


5. Green Bay Packers
Move from Week 16: -1
Why?: Sitting a 12-3, two of these losses came to a mediocre at best Bears team. Luckily for the Packers they won't be facing them come playoff time.


6. San Diego Chargers
Move from Week 16: +1
Why?: This team is the hottest team in the NFL right now minus the Pats. They look a lot like the 14-2 team they were last year.


7. Seattle Seahawks
Move from Week 16: +1
Why?: They absolutely destroyed an already emotionally weak Ravens team. They could be a surprise threat come playoff time.


8. New York Giants
Move from Week 16: +1
Why?: They don't need for Eli to perform well if the running game performs as well as it did against the Bills. That's asking a lot though. If the G-men can come within 7 points of the Pats this week then they'll have a lot of confidence going into the playoffs.


9. Pittsburgh Steelers
Move from Week 16: +1
Why?: They have the AFC North all wrapped up now. I still don't have much confidence for them for the playoffs though.


10. Cleveland Browns
Move from Week 16: -4
Why?: I'll admit I've jumped on the Cleveland bandwagon because of how unexpected their season is. Now they are in trouble for the playoffs with the Colts controlling their destiny. If Dunge plays his starters except to see the Browns in come playoff time, if not, then the Browns will have to wait until next year.


11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Move from Week 16: 0
Why?: They lost to the 49ers, but their starters were rested for the game so nothing should be read too much into it. They are still the weakest playoff team out of all that is clinched.


12. Tennessee Titans
Move from Week 16: +1
Why?: Their 4 point win over the Jets might not seem impressive, and it isn't, but it has helped them to stay alive in the playoff picture. Now they are in control of their own playoff destiny.


13. Washington Redskins
Move from Week 16: +3
Why?: Do you think this team has Sean Taylor in the back of their minds? They have been dominating, with the exception of the Bills game, since his death. Like the Titans, they control their own destiny for the playoffs. If the Cowboys rest their starters, expect to see the Redskins take the 6th seed in the NFC.


14. Minnesota Vikings
Move from Week 16: -2
Why?: After what looked like a sure playoff clinch, their is a pretty strong chance they won't be seeing any playoff time come January.


15. Philadelphia Eagles
Move from Week 16: +4
Why?: Even though they are out of the picture, they are still playing like they are fighting for their playoff lives. This team can pull a Packers move and end this season strong and have a dominating year next season.


16. New Orleans Saints
Move from Week 16: -2
Why?: Even though they lost, the Redskins win kept this team alive. They need a miracle to clinch though.


17. Buffalo Bills
Move from Week 16: -2
Why?: Trent Edwards was the opposite of clutch throwing 3 quick interceptions against the Giants. They should still use him for their starting QB come next season.


18. Detroit Lions
Move from Week 16: 0
Why?: Somebody had to win in their game against the Chiefs (imagine if they tied?!?) and the Lions took it by 5 points. Kitna is biting his tounge after predicting a 10-6 season.


19. Houston Texans
Move from Week 16: -2
Why?: This team will be better next season. I'm curious to see what their record would be in any other division.


20. Arizona Cardinals
Move from Week 16: 0
Why?: They squeaked out a win against the Falcons which is embarrassing with the way the Falcons have been playing. I can't believe I predicted this team to be a 6th seed this year with a 9-7 record.


21. Chicago Bears
Move from Week 16: +1
Why?: A dominating performance against the NFC's 2nd best team. They'll need to discuss their QB situation for next season though or this team won't be making the playoffs again.


22. Denver Broncos
Move from Week 16: -1
Why?: A disappointing season for this team. Expect Cutler to improve with experience though.


23. Carolina Panthers
Move from Week 16: 0
Why?: They really haven't been playing bad as of late, even with 4th option QB Matt Moore. That doesn't mean they aren't still wondering what their season would have been with an injured Jake Delhomme.


24. Cincinnati Bengals
Move from Week 16: +1
Why?: Their playing the role of spoiler quite well with a win over the Browns. Lets see if people will continue to pick this team for the playoffs next year with another subpar performance under their belt.


25. San Francisco 49ers
Move from Week 16: +3
Why?: Why the big increase? New QB=New team. Shaun Hill is 2-0 QB-ing for a team that started the season 3-10 (first two wins came from the first two games of the season). The name Alex Smith should never be mentioned again.


26. Oakland Raiders
Move from Week 16: -2
Why?: Well they gave JaMarcus Russell a shot and he looked horrible in his first start. The Raiders should start him again given it is his first game and they have nothing else to shoot for.


27. New York Jets
Move from Week 16: 0
Why?: Another game lost by 7 or less. Who is QB-ing come next season?


28. Kansas City Chiefs
Move from Week 16: -2
Why?: The lost the battle of the losers against the Lions. The Chiefs aren't just bad, they are crazy bad.


29. St. Louis Rams
Move from Week 16: +1
Why?: Yes, they lost by a decent amount against the Steelers, but they kept it close throughout the game. They also don't deserve to be in the 30s compared to the other teams listed below.


30. Baltimore Ravens
Move from Week 16: -1
Why?: 9 in a row?!? Wow. Did anyone expect this team to be 4-11 at this point of the season??


31. Atlanta Falcons
Move from Week 16: 0
Why?: They pretty much clinched this spot in the rankings. They won't win next week and even if they lose, the Dolphins will have to put up a surprising win against the Eagles for this team to move down.


32. Miami Dolphins
Move from Week 16: 0
Why?: 1-14, look how bad that sounds. It'll be 1-15 after the game against the Eagles.

New Album Releases

The end of the year means very little in terms of new releases..here are three from last week

Scale:
A- to A+: Universally Acclaimed

B- to B+: Overall positive reviews

C- to C+: Mixed reviews

D- to D+: Overall negative reviews

F- to F+: Horrible


1. Lupe Fiasco-The Cool
Average Critic Score: A-
Average Fan Score: A+

Scores:
All Music Guide: C+
The Onion: A+
Blender: C+
Entertainment Weekly: A+
Village Voice: A-


2. Mary J. Blige-Growing Pains
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: B-

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
Rolling Stone: B
PopMatters: A-
Blender: C+
Entertainment Weekly: B+


3. Rivers Cuomo-Alone: The Home Recordings of Rivers Cuomo
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
All Music Guide: A
Rolling Stone: C
Pitchfork: B
PopMatters: B
The Onion: C

The Floppy 5

Now people who have entered this post via BlogRush might have been anticipating seeing five old men with erectile dysfunction performing some sort of dancing ritual. I assure you this is not the case. The floppy 5 refers to the 5 biggest flops in terms of album releases this year. I'm going to do a dramatic countdown to the number 1 flop of 2007 (well its not dramatic, but just picture dramatic music in the background).



5. Stereophonics-Pull the Pin
Why?: The bands previous release, Language. Sex. Violence. Other? wasn't a great album by any means, but it at least was decent. Pull the Pin is the worst release by the Stereophonics in their 6 CD career. This is so boring, so safe, that it will appear to individuals who listen to Nickleback because they find Pearl Jam too challenging.



4. 50 Cent-Curtis
Why?: 50 Cent claims that if his CD doesn't do as well as Kanye's-Graduation then he will retire from the music biz. Well I guess 50 is packing it in because I can't understand for the life of me how he can make such "threats" as this when releasing such a mediocre album. Remember how good 50 was 5 years ago when he was this up and coming rapper? I'm hoping this is just a flop, and not an indication of things to come.


3. Jennifer Lopez-Como Ama Una Mujer
Why?: Huh? J-Lo released a new album? She sure did, back in March of this year. It's in all Spanish which might be frustrating for listeners who dont' speak the language, but even if you do, you'll find it just as bad. Now I've never been a huge fan of her music, but I respected her as a singer and knew that she had some talent. This album shows none of it. Marc Anthony, her husband and well-known singer, produced the HELL out of this album and its painfully evident. It's so boring and the ballads are extremely dull.


2. Soulja Boy-souljaboytellem.com
Why?: It's almost unfair to call this the 2nd biggest flop of the year because there isn't a prior release to base this on, but this album is the most overrated album I have ever heard. Soulja Boy isn't good. Listen to the worst of rap that existed 10 years ago and try to tell me that the lyrics and music on Soulja Boy's album is better. You can't.


1. Prince-Planet Earth
Why?: Again, this is another artist who I was never a huge fan of, but always respected his work. In the 80s he was the Prince of pop (under Michael Jackson's reign of being the king). His newest release just shows you that it's time for him to hang up his crown and realize that he's lost all of his artistic ability. He's like that guy who has worked in the office for 50 years and refuses to retire, but is obviously too old to do his job and feels the need to tell everyone how to do theirs. This CD actually didn't get bad reviews, but after listening to it I wonder how that is possible.

NFL Power Rankings-Week 16

2 more weeks to go


1. New England Patriots
Move from Week 15: 0
Why?: Well it wasn't the blowout we all expected, but Belichick was still all smiles after beating Mangini's team.


2. Dallas Cowboys
Move from Week 15: 0
Why?: Can't move them down still after their loss against the Eagles, although these last two games they looked anything but dominating. They'll need to finish the season strong to have some confidence going into the playoffs especially with an inexperienced QB.


3. Indianapolis Colts
Move from Week 15: 0
Why?: They clinched a first round bye with their win over the Raiders. That didn't mean they played well. They couldn't score a touchdown against the Raiders until midway through the 4th quarter.


4. Green Bay Packers
Move from Week 15: 0
Why?: An easy game for this team against the Rams. Even though they got their asses handed to them against the Cowboys, don't count this team out for the Super Bowl especially with the way the Cowboys have been playing.


5. Jacksonville Jaguars
Move from Week 15: 0
Why?: I really like this team, especially after their win against the Steelers. Easily the best wildcard team in the NFL. They could be an upset for the Super Bowl.


6. Cleveland Browns
Move from Week 15: +3
Why?: They pulled off the biggest win of their season against the Bills and are now all but clinched for the playoffs. Did you ever the Browns making it to 6 in the power rankings?!?!


7. San Diego Chargers
Move from Week 15: +3
Why?: 51 points against the Lions. After not looking so great in the beginning of the season, this team is probably a 3 seed for the playoffs.


8. Seattle Seahawks
Move from Week 15: -2
Why?: They seemed to be playing with a "I don't care" attitude now that they have nothing to shoot for really. After dominating with the passing game this team could only come up with 10 points against the Panthers.


9. New York Giants
Move from Week 15: -2
Why?: Ugly loss against the Redskins. They needed that game so they could play the rest of the season without worrying too much. Now they need to beat Buffalo otherwise the playoffs, which once looked like a sure thing, might not happen.


10. Pittsburgh Steelers
Move from Week 15: -2
Why?: Go ahead and yell at me. Say "how can the Steelers be 4 spots behind the Browns when they beat them twice?!?!" Well, your Steelers aren't looking like they did when they faced off against the Browns. They've lost two in a row including their first game at home and are now fighting for the division title against the Browns.


11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Move from Week 15: 0
Why?: I couldn't move them up due to the other teams ahead of them, but the looked great against the Falcons. Then again, it was against the Falcons.


12. Minnesota Vikings
Move from Week 15: 0
Why?: It wasn't the blowout the other games have been, but the Vikings beat the Bears and are now sitting at a cushy 8-6. Don't be surprised if they grab that 5th seed over the Giants.


13. Tennessee Titans
Move from Week 15: +1
Why?: The Titans keep their playoff hopes alive with a win over the Chiefs. They still will have a tough time with being a game back from the Browns.


14. New Orleans Saints
Move from Week 15: +1
Why?: Another team keeping their playoffs hopes alive with a huge win over the Cardinals. They'll need to avoid making any errors in order for it to happen though.


15. Buffalo Bills
Move from Week 15: -2
Why?: It wans't far for either team to play in this kind of weather, but the Bills needed that win (even more so than the Browns). This team could be a threat again next year though if they start Trent Edwards.


16. Washington Redskins
Move from Week 15: +1
Why?: They dominated the Giants and are now all of a sudden they're back in the playoff picture. It won't be easy, but they'll be making that extra effort for Shaun Taylor.


17. Houston Texans
Move from Week 15: +3
Why?: I feel bad that this team has to play in the AFC South (the toughest division in football). They'd be making a run for the playoffs in any other division. They still are doing the best they ever have in franchise history.


18. Detroit Lions
Move from Week 15: -2
Why?: After stating the season at 6-2, they might end up 6-10. They couldn't even keep it close against the Chargers, losing 51-14. Time to think about what to improve for next yaer.


19. Philadelphia Eagles
Move from Week 15: +2
Why?: Big upset against the Cowboys. Although it really just plays the role of being a spoiler than anything else, it does manage to have the Eagles hang onto their last thread of playoff life.


20. Arizona Cardinals
Move from Week 15: -2
Why?: This team looked like they could be a playoff team all year, but now are showing their true colors. They've been inconsistent all year and now are just consistently bad.


21. Denver Broncos
Move from Week 15: -2
Why?: The loss to the Texans wasn't really an upset. The Texans to me are on the same level as the Broncos, maybe slightly better. It doesn't save them from the fact that they won't be making the playoffs for two straight seasons.


22. Chicago Bears
Move from Week 15: 0
Why?: They couldn't hold onto the lead and now they're offiically done for the season. They could have the worst 3 QBs in all of football.


23. Carolina Panthers
Move from Week 15: +4
Why?: Trust me, they didn't move up 4 spots because they played exceptionally well. It is just because of the way the other games played out. A big upset against the Seahawks.


24. Oakland Raiders
Move from Week 15: +2
Why?: Again, it was that kind of week. The Raiders managed to only lose by 7 to the dominating Colts team, but that was after leading by 1.


25. Cincinnati Bengals
Move from Week 15: -1
Why?: They lost to the 49ers. Wow. Just when you think this can't get any worse they pull some tricks out.


26. Kansas City Chiefs
Move from Week 15: -1
Why?: Looks like they'll take on the Raiders role of being the bottom of the AFC West teams this year.


27. New York Jets
Move from Week 15: +1
Why?: People expected the Pats to win by 50 because of spygate, but don't you think the Jets wanted to keep it close because of the same exact thing? They put on a better showing then must people expected with a 10 point loss to the Pats.


28. San Fransisco 49ers
Move from Week 15: +3
Why?: Maybe they'll manage to stay out of the bottom 3 now that they upset the Bengals. Shaun Hill was great and gives them some hope going into next year.


29. Baltimore Ravens
Move from Week 15: -6
Why?: Somebody had to do it (well not really), but the Ravens were the team that the Dolphins scored their first win against. Now they have lost 8 straight and with the way they've been playing they can go 4-12.


30. St. Louis Rams
Move from Week 15: -1
Why?: This looks like the first half of the season all over again with the Rams dropping back down to the 30s. After their loss to the Packers they are now 1-6 at home.


31. Atlanta Falcons
Move from Week 15: -1
Why?: What a horrible team. They got absolutely dominated by the Buccs. Even with the way they've been playing I can't put them behind the Dolphins yet.


32. Miami Dolphins
Move from Week 15: 0
Why?: And they did it! Finally a win for this team. I can't move them up yet because they still only have 1 win and everyone else has at least 3. They'll need to win 1 more game OR come within 10 of the Pats for me to move them up.

New Album Releases

This includes Pink Floyd's box set which has seen surprisingly negative criticism

Scale:
A- to A+: Universally Acclaimed

B- to B+: Overall positive reviews

C- to C+: Mixed reviews

D- to D+: Overall negative reveiws

F- to F+: Horrible




1. Saves the Day-Under the Boards
Average Critic Score: C+
Average Fan Score: B

Scores:
All Music Guide: B
The Onion: C
Spin: D+
Alternative Press: B
Boston Globe: D+


2. Wu-Tang Clan-8 Diagrams
Average Critic Score: B
Average Fan Score: A

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
Rolling Stone: B
Pitchfork: A-
PopMatters: A-
The Onion: B-


3. Bow Wow & Omarion-Face Off
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: B

Scores:
All Music Guide: C+
Rolling Stone: C+
Billboard: B
Blender: C+
Entertainment Weekly: A-


4. Scarface-M.A.D.E.
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: C-

Scores:
All Music Guide: B
Rolling Stone: C+
Entertainment Weekly: B+
The New York Times: A-
RapReviews.Com: A-


5. Dr. Dog-We All Belong
Average Critic Score: B
Average Fan Score: A

Scores:
All Music Guide: A
Rolling Stone: B
Pitchfork: C
PopMatters: C
The Onion: B+


6. Beanie Sigel-The Solution
Average Critic Score: B
Average Fan Score: B+

Scores:
Rolling Stone: C+
Pitchfork: B-
Billboard: A-
Blender: C+
The New York Times: A-


7. Pink Floyd-Oh By the Way
Average Critic Score: C+
Average Fan Score: B+

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
Billboard: A-
Pitchfork: D+
Amazon.com: C
Uncut: C+

This Will Cause Some Controversy..

Now knowing this is a blog about sports and music, I'm sure many of you guessed by the post title that I'm referring to the Mitchell report. The Mitchell report for anybody who hasn't opened a newspaper, watched TV, or got out of bed for the past 3 days is the report released Senator George Mitchell which compiles the history of steroid use in the MLB. The report names 89 MLB baseball players who allegedly used steroids (all MLB teams were represented in the report).

Out of everybody listed on the report, Roger Clemens was the one who caused the biggest reaction among fans. The future hall of famer (well maybe not anymore) apparently used HGH (human growth hormone) during the 1998, 2000, and 2001 MLB seasons. Just like the whole Bonds thing, it was pretty evident that he was on something. No baseball player can start on a downward spiral and then all of a sudden get to the age of 35 and become dominant. It just isn't physically possible no matter how hard you train unless you use steroids.

The race card has been thrown around this whole thing because of the scrutiny being endured by Bonds and then the lack of hatred being shown towards Clemens. First, I hate how the race card gets thrown around all too often. Certain circumstances it does apply to, but not this. People should not cry racism when it doesn't exist. The reason for the intense pressure on Bonds was because he was chasing the BIGGEST record in baseball. The whole controversy existed over whether or not it was fair that such a record with this kind of caliber should be broken by a guy who would have never broken it without steroids. The record he was chasing was that of Hank Aaron's, another black male. Clemens isn't under as intense scrutiny because while he is a future hall of famer, he isn't breaking any huge records.

The positive thing with this report is that he provides some light on the whole Pete Rose situation. If Bonds, Clemens, McGwire, or whoever else on that report makes the hall of fame then the Pete Rose situation needs to be looked into further. First off, he gambled when he was a Manager not a Player which is what he would be inducted into the hall of fame for. What he did, did not help him become a better player by an unfair measure. What Bonds and Clemens are doing is basically cheating and is the only reason why they have the numbers they do. Yes they probably would be hall of famers anyway, but there is no way they would have posted the kind of numbers they did without steroids.

I think its ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS how some sports writers are saying that nobody from the steroids era should be inducted into the hall of fame. Players like Glavine, Griffey Jr. (who would have been the best player of all time if it wasn't for his injuries), Maddux, and Frank Thomas should not be punished for the cheating ways of other players. Now I can't rule out that any of these guys didn't do steroids because even though they weren't in the report, it is possible that they took something. That's the thing. There is no way of knowing every player that did take steroids and every player that didn't. An investigation should be done, and if a player knowingly took steroids and is proven to have done so they should be BANNED from the game and from the hall. Plain and simple. Do you think it is fair for players like Glavine and Maddux to have to pitch to these steroid-ridden junkies? Their numbers could have arguably been a lot better hadn't been for the players who juiced.


The whole putting an asterik on these players is just stupid. This whole investigation has already tainted everything and an asterik wouldn't have an impact. Either you put them in all the way or not at all. Obviously I'm for not putting them in at all.

I'm not saying putting in some mediocre players who have proven not to have taken any steroids. There are plenty of good players (like I listed above) who have shown they can play the game well and not juice.

I'm also annoyed by the people who say "well there was no rule on taking steroids at one point in baseball so the players who took it before this time should be left alone". Ok there was no rule, but it was ILLEGAL. If a player stabs another player are you going to say that there was no rule against it so he should be kept in the league? Come on.

Again, with this thing it is so hard to prove anything. Nolan Ryan was referred to as the king of steroids, but that will never be investigated into. It is literally impossible to find the truth on every player so its so hard to weed out the cheaters from the true players of the game. My stance though was stated clearly and I'll say it again. Players who were proven to have taken steroids need to be banned from the league and the hall. Send a message to the other players that this game needs to be FAIR. The Pete Rose situation also needs to be looked into as well. I think he should definitely be in the hall of fame and if Bonds, Clemens, and all of them are still being considered for the hall then he needs to be also.


What will happen? Nothing. Seriously. Bonds might get punished for perjury, but there are too many players on the report to punish all of them. What they will do is possibly fine all players proven to have taken steroids, have more random drug tests, and then let the whole thing die off. It'll disappear in a few months and that is what they will wait for. Pete Rose won't be considered. Nothing will change. Bud Selig will turn a blind eye. That is what I think and I'm sure most people will disagree.

Leave the Giants alone!

The Giants might be the most ridiculed team in the NFL this year. Even more so than the 0-13 Dolphins. People have gone as far as saying they are the worst 9-4 team in football history. It's absolutely absurd and I'll explain why.


Yes I'm a Giants fan by the way.

First, the reason that the Giants get a lot of crap is solely due to the inconsistency of QB Eli Manning. He can lead the team to some great games, but in others he looks like he has never held a football in his life. People have been only focusing on his subpar performances and never the fact that he manages to have great 4th quarters to produce a come from behind win. This is exactly what happened against the Jets, Eagles, Bears, and Redskins. I'm not saying he's a top 5 QB and he probably isn't a top 10 one either, but people are talking about him like he's on the same level as Alex Smith or even John Beck. I understand he looks like Peyton's retarded brother (see pic above) and that Cooper could probably beat him in a fight(Click Here to find out who he is), but that doesn't make him a bad QB. When you look at his numbers he's easily ranked between the 10-15 spot for QBs.


So that means the Giants should be the 10th-15th best team in the NFL right? Wrong. The QB plays a vital role on a team, but it isn't the whole package. Brady is great, but there is no way the Pats would be 13-0 without Randy Moss. Brandon Jacobs (even though he's been injured for almost half of the season) has been exceeding expectations in filling the shoes of Tiki Barber. He's put up some great numbers and when he's out, Derrick Ward has been great as well. These guys are overlooked because none of them have played in every game this season so their total yards aren't sky high.


Then you have the most vital part of the team. The defense. Look at the defense now compared to the first two games of the season. This to me is the reason why they are 9-4. Osi and Strahan have been exceptional and the Giants defense is able to contain decent offenses of the Lions and the Eagles (twice) to under 20 points.


Then lastly there is Tynes. He started out the season horribly, but now has been the most clutch player on the team. Field goals seem to be the deciding factor in a lot of games this year (not just for the Giants) and Tynes has been hitting all of them. Combine his kicking with the defense, Eli's great 4th quarter performances, and the RB situation, and you have an average 9-4 team. Not the worst one in history and not even below average.


How come the Bears didn't get this much crap last season? They were 13-3 with Rex Grossman as their QB! Yes their defense was better than the Giants, but Rex was arguably a substantially worse QB then Eli. Yet nobody questioned it.


As for the whole "look at their schedule" thing. I understand that they beat some easy teams in their scheudle, but they DOMINATED the Falcons, 49ers, and the Jets. If they were such a bad team you would expect some close match ups (you can argue the Dolphins game, but look at the weather conditions and they had to travel to London). Their 4 losses came to better teams. The Cowboys beat them twice who are easily the second best team in the NFL. The Packers beat them once who are the second best team in the NFC and then you have the Vikings who are the hottest team in football right now trampeling over the Giants, Lions, and 49ers in their past 3 games. Speaking of the Lions, the Giants were responsible for the Lions first home loss. Just thought I'd throw that in there.


Playoff wise, I'm not expecting them to make the Super Bowl, but to call them an automatic first out is ridiculous. They can beat the Buccs (who they will probably face). They'll probably get knocked out by the Packers, but so would the majority of the teams in the NFL.


So the Giants face the Redskins, Bills, and Pats to close out the season. My prediction? A 24-10 win at home against the Redskins, a 16-13 win on the road against the Bills, and a 31-17 loss to the Pats at home which equals an 11-5 record. Then they'll be known as the worst 11-5 team of all time.

NFL Power Rankings-Week 15

Don't ever guarantee a victory over an undefeated team..that's all I'm going to say.


1. New England Patriots
Move from Week 14: 0
Why?: Do you think they wanted to prove something Sunday? Brady passed for a whopping 399 yards while the Pats completely destroyed the Steelers.


2. Dallas Cowboys
Move from Week 14: 0
Why?: If you haven't read Jimmie Johnson's article on Fox Sports, don't. It is the worst sports article I've ever read (content wise and grammar wise). He thinks the Cowboys are better than the Pats in a nutshell, but his explanations are ridiculous. That being said, this team is still the easy number 2 team in the NFL.


3. Indianapolis Colts
Move from Week 14: 0
Why?: They showed no mercy against the Ravens and now are pretty much a clinch for the number 2 seed.


4. Green Bay Packers
Move from Week 14: 0
Why?: This team is just geting better and better. Who needs Favre? This team is just fine without him.


5. Jacksonville Jaguars
Move from Week 14: 0
Why?: The best wildcard team in the NFL. This team would probably be first in any other division except for the AFC East and NFC East.


6. Seattle Seahawks
Move from Week 14: +1
Why?: Just like the Packers, this team is getting better as the year progresses. Hasselback is quietly having a career season and the Seahawks are rolling over everyone in their path.


7. New York Giants
Move from Week 14: +1
Why?: The Giants have yet again to thank their defense for another win. I don't care how inconsistent Eli is, they manage to pull off the big wins that they need which is clutch.


8. Pittsburgh Steelers
Move from Week 14: -2
Why?: Probably the biggest move down from losing to the Pats, but if you talk a lot of crap either put up or shut up. This team is in a lot of trouble come playoff time.


9. Cleveland Browns
Move from Week 14: +1
Why?: A big win over the Jets to have a one game lead for the 6th seed. The Browns have a game coming up against the Bills which might be a playoff decider. Did we ever think that those two teams would be fighting for the playoffs this year??


10. San Diego Chargers
Move from Week 14: +1
Why?: It came down to OT, but the Chargers won on an LT touchdown. It shows how much better this team has gotten. The Titans, although slumping, are playing as hard as ever with the playoffs on the line, but the Chargers are just a better football team right now.


11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Move from Week 14: -2
Why?; The weakest of the division winners, which was definitely shown with a loss to the cellar dwelling Texans. In any other division this team would be struggeling to make the playoffs.


12. Minnesota Vikings
Move from Week 14: +1
Why?: Besides the Pats, this appears to be the best team in football right now. They are literally unstoppable their past 3 games. After looking like a longshot for the playoffs a few weeks ago they are now at the point where not making the playoffs would be an upset. Look at their schedule, they could easily go 10-6 to end the season.


13. Buffalo Bills
Move from Week 14: +1
Why?: 99% of other power rankings have them at 14, but the Bills are dominant under the leadership of Edwards. He is 6-1 with a one point loss to the Cowboys. He also threw 3 TD passes in the first half which hasn't been done by a rookie since 1971. The Browns will be in trouble when these two teams face off.


14. Tennessee Titans
Move from Week 14: -2
Why?: They didn't win a game they needed and will now have to fight really hard for a playoff spot.


15. New Orleans Saints
Move from Week 14: +2
Why?; This team is still breathing after a dominant performance over the Falcons. They took 2 out of the 3 division games they played consecutively, but that one loss to the Buccs could cost them the playoffs.


16. Detroit Lions
Move from Week 14: -1
Why?: Dallas led for about a minute the entire game, but the final score is the only thing that matters. After a 6-2 start this team will probably not finish above or at .500.


17. Washington Redskins
Move from Week 14: +1
Why?: Another team hanging on to their playoff hopes while at the same time shattering another one's.


18. Arizona Cardinals
Move from Week 14: -2
Why?: If they beat the Seahawks they would have been the current 6th seed, but the loss pretty much knocked them out of the picture with the surging Vikings. The Seahawks game pretty much proved that while they are an improved team they are not ready for the playoffs yet.


19. Denver Broncos
Move from Week 14: +1
Why?: They absolutely destroyed the Chiefs, but unfortunately they haven't been playing like that at all this season. I'm expecting better things from Cutler next year.


20. Houston Texans
Move from Week 14: +3
Why?: Their 6-7 record is a lot better than it looks. They are 0-6 in their conference which means they are 6-1 against the rest of the NFL.


21. Philadelphia Eagles
Move from Week 14: -2
Why?: Ackers almost made an impreesive 57 yard field goal attempt, but the thing is that the Eagles should have found a way to secure the lead with the struggeling Manning.


22. Chicago Bears
Move from Week 14: -1
Why?: Remember when this team went 13-3? They are now almost a clinch for last place in their division. Ugly.


23. Baltimore Ravens
Move from Week 14: -1
Why?: After an extremely close game against the Pats they get absolutely destroyed against the Colts. They have lost 7 in a row and will now have to beat up on the Dolphins in order for any confidence booster.


24. Cincinnati Bengals
Move from Week 14: +3
Why?: Cincinnati is making their case for the best of the bottom feeders. Unfortunately all that gets you is a worse spot in the draft.


25. Kansas City Chiefs
Move from Week 14: -1
Why?: I'm sorry I projected you to go 9-7 this season. I don't know what I was thinking.


26. Oakland Raiders
Move from Week 14: -1
Why?: Nothing surprising about the game against the Packers. This team will be battling for 3rd place in the AFC West.


27. Carolina Panthers
Move from Week 14: -1
Why?: I saw David Carr as an option for a Pro Bowl pick so I voted for him as a joke. I also told about 30 people to do the same and to spread the word. It could be the funniest thing I've ever seen if somehow he gets in (although it'll never happen haha).


28. New York Jets
Move from Week 14: +1
Why?: Yeah I'll move you up. You lost, but so did all the other teams below you and you kept it close against the Browns. Do you think Mangini will have a job come next year though?


29. St. Louis Rams
Move from Week 14: -1
Why?: They will be competing with the 49ers for that 3rd spot in the NFC West. I'm sure the Pats will be rooting for them all the way.


30. Atlanta Falcons
Move from Week 14: 0
Why?: 23 months in prison for Vick and a 3-10 record for the Falcons.


31. San Fransisco 49ers
Move from Week 14: 0
Why?: Dilfer and Smith are out which means that 3rd string Shaun Hill will be taking over. If he puts up some good numbers, the 49ers can have some glimmer of hope going into next yaer.


32. Miami Dolphins
Move from Week 14: 0
Why?: 0-16 is becoming more and more realistic with each passing week. The Ravens is their absolute last shot for any chance of a win. What do you think the line will be against the Pats? Right now if you bet $2500 for the Pats to beat the Jets you will win $100 and if you bet $100 for the Jets to win, you'll get $1700 according to my bookie. I might gamble on the Dolphins just so I can bye that island I always wanted.

New Album Releases

You know the dealio...

Scale:
A- to A+: Universally Acclaimed

B- to B+: Overall positive reviews

C- to C+: Mixed reviews

D- to D+: Overall negative reveiws

F- to F+: Horrible




1. Ghostface Killah-The Big Doe Rehab
Average Critic Score: A-
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
All Music Guide: C+
Rolling Stone: A-
Pitchfork: A-
PopMatters: A-
The Onion: A+


2. Daft Punk-Alive 2007
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: A+

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
Rolling Stone: B
Pitchfork: A
PopMatters: A
Billboard: A-


3. The Wombats-A Guide to Love, Loss, and Desperation
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: B-

Scores:
New Musical Express: B
The Guardian: C+
Dot Music: B
Q Magazine: C+
Hot Press: C+


4. Wyclef Jean-Carnival II: Memoirs of an Immigrant
Average Critic Score: B
Average Fan Score: B

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
Rolling Stone: B
Billboard: B
The Onion: C+
Blender: C+


5. Blake Lewis-Audio Day Dream
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: B-

Scores:
All Music Guide: C
Billboard: A-
Entertainment Weekly: C
Amazon.com: A-
Los Angeles Times: B+


6. Freeway-Free at Last
Average Critic Score: B
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
Rolling Stone: B
Pitchfork: B+
Billboard: A-
Entertainment Weekly: B-


7. Rufus Wainwright-Rufus Does Judy at Carnegie Hall
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: B+

Scores:
Rolling Stone: B
Billboard: D+
Blender: B
Entertainment Weekly: B-
Slant Magazine: A-

4 More Days!

4 more days...that is what any Led Zeppelin fan in the UK (and probably further) are chanting. Unless you've been under a rock for a long time, Led Zeppelin is getting back together for a one-show gig on Monday in London. What's great is that the original lineup, minus the late drummer John Bonham, will be playing the show. I don't think you can possibly beat seeing the combo of Robert Plant and Jimmy Page live..unless of course Pink Floyd decides to play another show.


Why suddenly do they get back together? Well the break up first off wasn't over hostile issues, it was mostly due to John Bonham's death. It's not like Pink Floyd (yes I'm using them again) where Roger Waters and David Gilmour wanted to kill each other. This show though is to pay tribue to the late music producer, Ahmet Ertegun who signed the band back in 1968.

I'm curious about two things. First the set list. Will they play mostly old stuff (come on..everybody would rather hear the old stuff!) or do a mix of both. I'll make my prediction of "Black Dog" being the opener, "Kashmir" being the closer, and "Stairway to Heaven" being the final song for the encore.

I'm also curious to see how they are going to play. These gents average an age of 61 years. That's not young. Page is also playing with a broken finger which I hope doesn't hinder his performance because he is one of my favorite guitarists of all time. Hopefully Robert Plant has some energy to wail out some screams too.

Are they getting back together? Probably not, although the band didn't rule it out. Page is quoted as saying "Let's just do the O2 (on Monday) and we'll see what happens from there. I haven't got a crystal ball here and nor have you." Let's hope I'm wrong and we see a farewell tour in the future (I'd like them to come to the US!).

NFL Power Rankings-Week 14

The Patriots hang on to their undefeated season. Here are the power rankings heading into Week 14.


1. New England Patriots
Move from Week 13: 0
Why?: The Patriots should have lost that game, but if you give these guys the ball too many times at the end of the game you are bound to lose.


2. Dallas Cowboys
Move from Week 13: 0
Why?: A win over the Packers almost clinches the number one seed in the NFC and is a predictor of who will make the Super Bowl.


3. Indianapolis Colts
Move from Week 13: +2
Why?: A big win over the Jaguars to have a cushy lead on the AFC South. Whatever struggles the Colts faced in the past few weeks are a thing of the past.


4. Green Bay Packers
Move from Week 13: -1
Why?: Favre leaving the game with an injury actually helped this team to keep it close, but the Cowboys are just a better football team. A number 2 seed is still pretty impressive from a team not expected to even win the division this year.


5. Jacksonville Jaguars
Move from Week 13: -1
Why?: They kept it close, but couldn't defeat their division rivals. Garrard threw his first pick of the season. That being said, this team will be almost a definite 5th seed for the playoffs.


6. Pittsburgh Steelers
Move from Week 13: 0
Why?: A big win over the Bengals to shut up the critics who say the Steelers are overrated. I'm not a Steelers fan at all, but I think they have more than proven themselves this year. The way the Patriots have been playing the last two weeks, this team has a shot of winning next week against them.


7. Seattle Seahwaks
Move from Week 13: +1
Why?: Their game against the Eagles sparked my curiousity. The Seahwaks had boasted a 7-4 record coming into the game but 4 of those wins were against the Rams and 49ers. The Eagles were 5-7, but recently had a great game against the Pats. It was close, as I expected, but the Seahawks pulled off the win, securing a nice lead in the NFC West.


8. New York Giants
Move from Week 13: +1
Why?: It looked like another woeful loss for this team, but Eli played great in the 4th quarter and carried this team to a late win against the Bears. Now sitting on top of the wildcard race by two games at 8-4, this team faces off against the Skins, Eagles, Bills, and Pats. If they win one of these games, expect to see a definite playoff clinch.


9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Move from Week 13: +1
Why?: Big divison win over the Saints. With that win, the Buccs have pretty much clinched the division with a 3 game lead with 4 games to go.


10. Cleveland Browns
Move from Week 13: -3
Why?: I'm not a Browns fan, but I've been rooting for them all year because I find their situation exciting (projected to be the 2nd worst team in the NFL over the Falcons). Unfortunately their loss has put them into a tie for the last playoff spot with the Titans. They should win an easy game against the Jets next week.


11. San Diego Chargers
Move from Week 13: 0
Why?: Another big win to secure an almost definite divison title. The Chargers rolled over the Chiefs and now have won 6 out of their last 8.


12. Tennesse Titans
Move from Week 13: 0
Why?: After looking like a lost cause, this team bounces back with a huge win over the Texans. With the Browns loss, they are now tied for the 6th seed.


13. Minnesota Vikings
Move from Week 13: +7
Why?: Yes you read right. Every year there is a team who starts off struggeling and then makes a huge surge at the end. This is the team. They dominated both the Giants and the Lions in the last two weeks and are looking like the logical 6th seed choice with a tough Lions schedule.


14. Buffalo Bills
Move from Week 13: +3
Why?: A last minute win against the Skins puts this team back at .500. Nobody is really including them in the playoff hunt, but they are now one game back behind the Titans and Browns by themselves with a game against the Dolphins coming up.


15. Detroit Lions
Move from Week 13: -2
Why?: Remember how great this team looked in their first 8 games? The Lions have lost 4 in a row and are in a lot of trouble. They are facing Dallas, San Diego and Green Bay which means they might not finish above .500.


16. Arizona Cardinals
Move from Week 13: +3
Why?: A big win over the Browns keeps this team well into the playoff race. Lets see if they can defeat their division rivals, the Seahawaks (they already did once this season).


17. New Orleans Saints
Move from Week 13: -2
Why?: Drew Brees said a couple of weeks ago "if we're going to turn things around, now is the time to do it". Well they beat the Panthers last week, but failed to beat the Buccs on Sunday. Not out of it yet, but you probably won't see them come January.


18. Washington Redskins
Move from Week 13: -3
Why?: Washington has a knack all season of outplaying teams and still finding a way to lose the game. Unfortunately for them, wins are the only thing that really matters when it comes to making the playoffs. Them and the Eagles are fighting for that 3rd spot in the NFC East.


19. Philadelphia Eagles
Move from Week 13: -3
Why?: A close game against the Seahawks, but AJ Feely didn't come close to his performance against New England throwing 4 picks and completing less than half of his passes.


20. Denver Broncos
Move from Week 13: -2
Why?: A loss to the Raiders is pretty pathetic any way you put it, but it's especially pathetic when your playoff hopes are on the line.


21. Chicago Bears
Move from Week 13: 0
Why?: Rex looked great for the first half of the game, but then looked like himself the second half. The Bears failed to hold Eli in check in the fourth quarter giving up two TDs, including the game winner.


22. Baltimore Ravens
Move from Week 13: +1
Why?: The Ravens should have won against the Pats, but they blew it on so many levels. A time out call (bad coaching) on 4th and 1 that canceled the game winning play and then when they held the Pats again, the Pats got an offsides call giving them a 6th down. Lets not forget the 30 yard penalty for the stupid unsportsmanlike conduct display.


23. Houston Texans
Move from Week 13: -1
Why?: I'm really surprised this team isn't winning games with the return of Andre Johnson. Well I guess when Rosenfels is your quarterback anything is possible.


24. Kansas City Chiefs
Move from Week 13: 0
Why?: Another loss and now they are tied with the Raiders for last place. Thats the only thing they'll be fighting for anymore.


25. Oakland Raiders
Move from Week 13: +3
Why?: Oakland on a winning streak?!? Hard to believe, but yes it is true. They can possibly end the season at 6-10!


26. Carolina Panthers
Move from Week 13: 0
Why?: They finally won a game at home. That being said it was against the 49ers which is anything, but impressive.


27. Cincinnati Bengals
Move from Week 13: -2
Why?: Remember when everyone was saying how Palmer was a top 3, maybe a top 2 quarterback? He looked horrible against the Steelers. Thats not the worst of their problems with the defense being anything, but good.


28. St. Louis Rams
Move from Week 13: +2
Why?: The Rams have a chance of going 4-9 after beating the Falcons and a game coming up against the Bengals. This is a lot better than what was projected after they lost 7 in a row to start the season.


29. New York Jets
Move from Week 13: +2
Why?: After what many people (including me) believed to be the first Dolphins win coming up, the Jets destroyed the Dolphins. I guess they wanted to prove that they might be bad, but they aren't Dolphins bad.


30. Atlanta Falcons
Move from Week 13: -3
Why?: Losers of 3 in a row, the Falcons take on the Saints next week which means probably 4 in a row. Good luck in the draft.


31. San Francisco 49ers
Move from Week 13: -2
Why?: Welcome back to the 31st spot! We missed you for that one week after your fluke win. This team is in trouble next year too with giving their first round pick to the Pats.


32. Miami Dolphins
Move from Week 13: 0
Why?: And here is where they will remain until the end of the season. Pathetic display against the Jets. I would say maybe a chance of a win against the Ravens or even the Bills, but I highly doubt it.

New Album Releases

Here are the new releases from last week

Scale:
A- to A+: Universally Acclaimed

B- to B+: Overall positive reviews

C- to C+: Mixed reviews

D- to D+: Overall negative reveiws

F- to F+: Horrible


1. Amiina-Kurr
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
Pitchfork: C+
New Musical Express: B
The Guardian: A-
Drowned in Sound: A-
BBC Collective: A-


2. Kylie Minogue-X
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: B+

Scores:
Pitchfork: B-
Billboard: A-
NOW Magazine: C+
Uncut: C+
Mojo: D+


3. Boyz II Men-Motown: A Journey Through Hitsville USA
Average Critic Score: C+
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
All Music Guide: C+
Billboard: B
Entertainment Weekly: C-
Village Voice: D+
Vibe: B


4. Gorillaz-D-Sides
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: B-

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
Pitchfork: C+
PopMatters: A-
Billboard: A-
The Onion: B-


5. Jana Hunter-There's No Home
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: B-

Scores:
All Music Guide: B
Pitchfork: A-
cokemachineglow: B
Dusted Magazine: B
Prefix Magazine: A


6. Shaggy-Intoxication
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
Billboard: A-
NOW Magazine: D+
Entertainment Weekly: B+
Village Voice: A-


7. Burial-Untrue
Average Critic Score: A+
Average Fan Score: A

Scores:
Pitchfork: A-
The Guardian: A+
Dusted Magazine: A-
musicOMH.com: A+
Tiny Mix Tapes: A+


8. Pitbull-The Boatlift
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: B+

Scores:
All Music Guide: C+
Rolling Stone: C+
Billboard: A-
Slant Magazine: C+
RapReviews.com: B+


9. Gob-Meurtos Vitos
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: B-

Scores:
CD Universe: C+
Rate Your Music: A-
MP3.com: A+
Amazon.com: B
Sputnik Music: B-


10. The Dillinger Escape Plan-Ire Works
Average Critic Score: A-
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
All Music Guide: A
Billboard: A-
PopMatters: A
The Onion: A+
Spin: B

NFL Power Rankings-Week 13

Here they are..


1. New England Patriots
Move from Week 12: 0
Why?: An unexpected close game against the Eagles. The Patriots are proving they are human, but don't expect to see any close calls against the Ravens next Monday.


2. Dallas Cowboys
Move from Week 12: 0
Why?: They had their own Thanksgiving feast of the Jets on Thursday. Big game this Thursday which will decide home field advantage throughout the playoffs most likely.


3. Green Bay Packers
Move from Week 12: 0
Why?: A demolition of the Lions means that the only thing left to fight for is the number 1 seed. It will be a struggle for Favre who has been known to not post great numbers against the Cowboys.


4. Jacksonville Jaguars
Move from Week 12: 0
Why?: Big game against the Colts. It will be the decider of who takes the division. Colts are the obvious favorite, but the Jags are red hot and have a legitimate shot of winning that game.


5. Indianapolis Colts
Move from Week 12: 0
Why?: Their first good win in 4 weeks. After losing by 10 in the first quarter, they did what the Giants did against the Falcons and dominated for the rest of the game.


6. Pittsburgh Steelers
Move from Week 12: +1
Why?: Hate to keep using the Giants as a comparison, but the Steelers faced what the Giants faced in London (minus the jetlag). They were forced to play the Dolphins in horrible field conditions, but managed to pull away with the win. In any other environment I would expect this team to dominate.


7. Cleveland Browns
Move from Week 12: +1
Why?: Imagine if this team beat the Steelers in that game where they had that huge lead? They'd be sitting in first. The Browns are all but clinched for the playoffs with the Titans recent struggles.


8. Seattle Seahawks
Move from Week 12: +1
Why?: They almost blew it against the Rams, but managed a great comeback. With the Cardinals losing to the 49ers, they are pretty much guaranteed to be the division winners.


9. New York Giants
Move from Week 12: -3
Why?: Eli had one of his worst outing of his career. I wouldn't be too worried about it though. All season the Giants were losing to the teams they should have lost to and beating the teams they should have and last week was the first time that they failed to beat a team that was below them. They still have a one game lead over the 5th seed and a 2 game lead over the 6th seed.


10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Move from Week 12: +3
Why?: All season it was not known who would prevail in the NFC South, but the the Buccs seem to have proven that they are the best team. A big win over the Skins makes them the likely division winners.


11. San Diego Chargers
Move from Week 12: +1
Why?: Philip Rivers told all of the Chargers fans to "shut up" about them not meeting expectations. Not a smart move, but fans might quiet down now that they are the lone division leaders.


12. Tennessee Titans
Move from Week 12: -2
Why?: After looking like a definite for the playoffs, this team is anything but. An unexpected blowout by the Bengals is making this teams playoff hopes slip away.


13. Detroit Lions
Move from Week 12: -2
Why?: Losers of 3 in a row with a tough schedule to end the season, the Lions making a playoffs might all be crushed.


14. New Orleans Saints
Move from Week 12: +7
Why?: They don't deserve to move up 7 spots, but everyone else lost. The Saints destroyed the Panthers and probably crushed their spirits a little too. If they win at home against the Buccs, this team might end up taking the division.


15. Washington Redskins
Move from Week 12: -1
Why?: They didn't play that poorly against the Buccs, it's just right now Tampa Bay is better than the Redskins. The Eagles are starting to show some resurgence which can mean that the Skins end up in the cellar at the end of the season.


16. Philadelphia Eagles
Move from Week 12: +2
Why?: It's funny when losing to a team by 3 makes you move up two spots in the rankings. The Eagles did something right to make the Patriots game a nail-biter. Its intersting to wonder if the Eagles could have pulled off a win with a healthy McNabb instead of Feely.


17. Buffalo Bills
Move from Week 12: -2
Why?: It was good while it lasted. The Bills are now at 5-6, back below .500. Their offense is just not strong enough to make this team a playoff contender.


18. Denver Broncos
Move from Week 12: -1
Why?: Big loss against the Bears. They had a shot of beating a mediocre team to stay tied for the AFC West lead, but now are looking like they wont be seeing any playing time come January.


19. Arizona Cardinals
Move from Week 12: -3
Why?: You're going to give up 37 points to the 49ers? Really? Either the 49ers ate their Wheaties or this shows a struggle in the Cardinals defense.


20. Minnesota Vikings
Move from Week 12: +3
Why?: This team is like a worse version of the Chargers. They'll get crushed by a bunch of teams, but then they'll unexpectedly destroy a team thats better than them. Jackson had his best game all season and the defense was spectacular against a struggeling Manning.


21. Chicago Bears
Move from Week 12: +4
Why?: A big win against the Broncos makes this team still in the playoff race. Their defense will need to take advantage of Eli's struggles in order for them to remain the hunt.


22. Houston Texans
Move from Week 12: -2
Why?: I wonder what this season would have been like for this team had Schaub and Johnson been healthy all year.


23. Baltimore Ravens
Move from Week 12: -4
Why?: They now have lost 5 games in a row which is the most in franchise history. Their next two games are against the Pats and the Colts which could mean a 7 game losing streak for this team.


24. Kansas City Chiefs
Move from Week 12: -2
Why?: All playoff hopes are offiically down the tube for this team.


25. Cincinnati Bengals
Move from Week 12: +4
Why?: They were clicking for the first time all season. What a day for Chad Johnson who had a career game. They'll be fighting for 3rd place now with a struggeling Ravens team.


26. Carolina Panthers
Move from Week 12: -2
Why?: They are one ugly loss away from being in the bottom 5, possibly the bottom 3. Some rankings are already putting them at 30! Panthers fan are probably wondering what it could have been like without Delhomme's injury.


27. Atlanta Falcons
Move from Week 12: -1
Why?: Their potential upset was taken away by the rally of the Colts team. I'm expecting 1 more win tops by this team.


28. Oakland Raiders
Move from Week 12: +2
Why?: This game snapped a 7 game losing streak as well as making it possible for this team not to finish in last place.


29. San Francisco 49ers
Move from Week 12: +2
Why?: They looked like a completely different team then they have been all season. Frank Gore had his best game of the season and the 49ers are doing their part in playing spoiler for the rest of the season.


30. St. Louis Rams
Move from Week 12: -3
Why?: Back to the 30s. They couldn't hold on to a lead against the Seahawks and now with the 49ers winning they are in dead last by themselves.


31. New York Jets
Move from Week 12: -3
Why?: Welcome Jets to the "if the Dolphins win you'll be in last place" situation. This could be likely considering they are playing them next week.


32. Miami Dolphins
Move from Week 12: 0
Why?: Ugly game against the Steelers (not the playing, the condition the field was in). This team actually has a bunch of games within 7 points which is the only thing that is giving this team hope. If they don't want to be 0-16 they need to beat the Jets.

The Craziness of the 2007 NFL Season

This whole season for the NFL has been absolutely ridiculous. Teams projected to be great like the Saints, Ravens, and Bears are anything but that and teams like the Packers and the Browns are all of a sudden among the elite teams in the NFL. I thought it would be interesting to take a look at my projections prior to the start of the season in terms of records for all the teams and compare it to where they are at this point.

AFC East

Predictions
1. New England Patriots: 12-4 (4th Seed)
2. New York Jets: 9-7
3. Miami Dolphins: 8-8
4. Buffalo Bills: 6-10


Actual Standings
1. New England Patriots: 11-0
2. Buffalo Bills: 5-6
3. New York Jets: 2-9
4. Miami Dolphins: 0-10

Analysis: I knew the aquisition of Randy Moss would help the Patriots, but I never would have anticipated they would become the BEST team in the history of the NFL. I too fell into the "wow Mangini is amazing!" loop and though he would help the Jets again this year. Mangini to Mangina. Now I wanted to give the Bills a slightly higher record (7-9 or 8-8 tops) due to my prediction that Losman would be better and that Lee Evans would be a good receiver, but I didn't and they are better than I predicted, but not because of the reasons I described. Edwards has been a better QB than Losman and Lynch has been the go-to-guy. Now the Dolphins. I'm ashamed of myself. I had too much faith in Brown and failed to realize that he alone can't carry the team.

AFC North

Predictions
1. Baltimore Ravens: 13-3 (3rd Seed)
2. Cincinnati Bengals: 10-6 (6th Seed)
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: 9-7
4. Cleveland Browns: 5-11


Actual Standings
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: 7-3
2. Cleveland Browns: 7-4
3. Cincinnati Bengals: 4-7
4. Baltimore Ravens: 4-7

Anaylsis: This is almost the opposite of what I predicted, but I feel like everyone was fairly close to what I did. The Ravens defense still remains good, but their offense which I expected to improve or remain the same has vanished. Nobody anticipated the rejuvination of the Browns under Anderson's leadership. The Bengals have no excuse for their subpar performance with Carson Palmer, Chad Johnson, TJ (don't feel attempting to spell the last name haha), and Rudi Johnson. Their subpar performance is highly unexpected. The Steelers are not too far off from when I expected from them. Yes I posted 9-7, but that was anticipating better performances from the Bengals and Ravens which would have resulted in more divisional losses by this team.

AFC South

Predictions
1. Indianapolis Colts: 13-3 (2nd Seed)
2. Jacksonville Jaguars: 11-5 (5th Seed)
3. Tennessee Titans: 8-8
4. Houston Texans: 4-12

Actual Standings
1. Indianapolis Colts: 9-2
2. Jacksonville Jaguars: 8-3
3. Tennessee Titans: 6-5
4. Houston Texans: 5-6

Analysis: Minus my underestimation of the Texans, all of these predictions are possible. The Colts are a dominant team, but they are known to blow a couple of games throughout the season. I expected the Titans to struggle without Pacman Jones and they definitely are. After showing some promised in the beginning of the season they now have lost 3 in a row and Vince Young is unable to carry the pressure on his own. The Jags have a great double threat with Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor. Garrard is also having a great season as well. The Texans are a nice surprise with Matt Schaub exceeding expectations.

AFC West

Predictions
1. San Diego Chargers: 14-2 (1st Seed)
2. Denver Broncos: 10-6
3. Kansas City Chiefs: 9-7
4. Oakland Raiders: 2-14


Actual Standings
1. San Diego Chargers: 6-5
2. Denver Broncos: 5-6
3. Kansas City Chiefs: 4-7
4. Oakland Raiders: 3-8

Analysis: Well the order of the standings are right, but the records are way off. I knew the aquisition of Norv Turner wasn't a great idea, but with LT, Rivers, Gates, and a good defense I expected some good things out of this team. They do show some signs of their expected dominance in some games, but in others they just simply lost the magic of last season. I expected too much out of Jay Cutler although he is doing pretty well. I also expected too much out of LJ relating to the Chiefs. Up until two or three weeks ago I actually thought they could be a 9-7 team still. The Raiders are slighlty better than I expected, but not by much. Their best case scenario is a 5-11 record although they'll probably be 4-12 or 3-13.

NFC East

Predictions
1. Dallas Cowboys: 11-5 (2nd Seed)
2. Philadelphia Eagles: 10-6 (5th Seed)
3. New York Giants: 7-9
4. Washington Redskins: 6-10

Actual Standings
1. Dallas Cowboys: 10-1
2. New York Giants: 7-4
3. Philadelphia Eagles: 5-6
4. Washington Redskins: 5-6


Analysis: Avid readers of my blog should be shaking their head when they see the Eagles prediction. I always say how bad of a team they are. This was after I saw the first two weeks of play by them and realized how McNabb isn't the star QB we all remember. I expected bigger and better things from Romo, but he has exceeded my expectations. I thought the loss of Tiki Barber would be pretty big for this Giants team. I did expect Jacobs to have an above average season, but not to be able to compete with the heroics of Barber. I was right about that, but for some reason the Giants pulled off some big wins and are now at 7-4. The Redskins started off unexpectedly good, but are now dipping slowly.

NFC North

Predictions
1. Chicago Bears: 13-3 (1st Seed)
2. Green Bay Packers: 8-8
3. Minnesota Vikings: 7-9
4. Detroit Lions: 4-12


Actual Standings
1. Green Bay Packers: 10-1
2. Detroit Lions: 6-5
3. Minnesota Vikings: 5-6
4. Chicago Bears: 5-6

Analysis: This is the one I messed up on the most I think. I expected the Bears to be better this year. I anticipated them to have as dominant of a defense with Rex Grossman showing slight improvements. Last year he was anything but spectacular and the Bears still took the division. Brett Favre has improved his QB-ing over last season is showing signs from his peak days. He isn't trying to be fancy. He is just making great plays. He has made the Packers into one of the best teams in the NFL. The Vikings are about where I expected although I never anticipated the greatness of Adrian Peterson (too bad about his injury). People expected the Lions to do good things under Kitna's leadership. I wasn't buying it. Now I feel stupid. Although Kitna's prediction of 10-6 will most likely not hold up (I'm expecting 9-7 or 8-8) they are still a big improvement.

NFC South

Predictions
1. New Orleans Saints: 11-5 (3rd Seed)
2. Carolina Panthers: 9-7
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 5-11
4. Atlanta Falcons: 5-11


Actual Standings
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 7-4
2. New Orleans Saints: 5-6
3. Carolina Panthers: 4-7
4. Atlanta Falcons: 3-8

Analysis: EVERYONE had the Saints in first. I don't blame them. Brees is still QB-ing and Deuce and Bush are still running the ball (well minus Deuce's recent injury) so what has changed? Beats me. This team is a big disappointment. I didn't expect the injury of Delhomme to occur and because of it the Panthers have really struggled. Tampa Bay has become a sleeper team under some good QB-ing. Michael Vick was the best thing about the Falcons and their struggles this season are highly anticipated.

NFC West

Predictions
1. Seattle Seahawks: 9-7 (4th Seed)
2. Arizona Cardinals: 9-7 (6th seed)
3. San Francisco 49ers: 7-9
4. St. Louis Rams: 6-10


Actual Standings
1. Seattle Seahawks: 7-4
2. Arizona Cardinals: 5-6
3. San Francisco 49ers: 3-8
4. St. Louis Rams: 2-9


Analysis: Even though the records are a little off, this is the division I think I nailed the most. Most people had the Rams winning the division or taking a wildcard and I didn't see it happening. Stephen Jackson is good, but not good enough to make this team a playoff team. Arizona was my pick for the sleeper team of the season (just squeaking bye into the playoffs). With a tough schedule for the Lions coming up this is very likely (although they need to get hot). I did expect more from the 49ers than what they are putting up. Frank Gore has been a big disappointment and Alex Smith an even bigger one (although nobody really expected much out of him). The Seahawks are where they should be. An above average team reaping the benefits of being in the worst division in football.

New Album Releases

You know the deal...

Scale:
A- to A+: Universally Acclaimed

B- to B+: Overall positive reviews

C- to C+: Mixed reviews

D- to D+: Overall negative reveiws

F- to F+: Horrible



1. Holy Fuck-LP
Average Critic Score: A-
Average Fan Score: A

Scores:
Pitchfork: B+
The Onion: A-
Spin: C+
NOW Magazine: C+
New Musical Express: A


2. Levon Helm-Dirt Farmer
Average Critic Score: A-
Average Fan Score: B+

Scores:
All Music Guide: B
Rolling Stone: B
PopMatters: B
NOW Magazine: A+
Uncut: A-


3. Seal-System
Average Critic Score: B
Average Fan Score: B

Scores:
All Music Guide: C+
Rolling Stone: B
PopMatters: B
Billboard: A-
Entertainment Weekly: B-


4. Efterklang-Parades
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: B

Scores:
Pitchfork: B
PopMatters: C+
Uncut: A-
New Musical Express: B
Mojo: A-


5. The Dillinger Escape Plan
Average Critic Score: A
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
All Music Guide: A
PopMatters: A
Billboard: A-
The Onion: A+
Spin: B


6. Amy Winehouse-Frank
Average Critic Score: A
Average Fan Score: B

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
PopMatters: B
Entertainment Weekly: A+
The Guardian: A-
musicOMH.com: A+


7. Six Organs of Admittance-Shelter From the Ash
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: A

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
Pitchfork: C-
The Onion: B+
Spin: C+
Uncut: A-


8. Jordin Sparks-Jordin Sparks
Average Critic Score: B
Average Fan Score: B

Scores:
All Music Guide: C+
Rolling Stone: B
Billboard: B
Entertainment Weekly: A-
Slant Magazine: C+


9. British Sea Power-Krankehnaus?
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
Stylus Magazine: B-
QRO Magazine: A-
Three Imaginary Girls: B+
Rolling Stone: A-
The Tripwire: A


10. Animal Collective-Strawberry Jam
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: A

Scores:
Pitchfork: A+
Stylus Magazine: B-
All Music Guide: A-
Rolling Stone: C+
PopMatters: A-

NFL Power Rankings Week 12

A little late this week, but here they are.


1. New England Patriots
Move from Week 11: 0
Why?: This isn't even fair anymore. A 56-10 win over one of the hottest teams in football?!? I don't understand why this team has a field goal unit by the way.


2. Dallas Cowboys
Move from Week 11: 0
Why?: With all the excitement about Brady-Moss lets not forget about Romo-Owens. Tony Romo statisticaly is the 2nd best QB in the NFL and T.O. is the 2nd best receiver. This team will have no problem coasting to the Super Bowl.


3. Green Bay Packers
Move from Week 11: +1
Why?: I"m finally willing to admit that this team is the real deal. Brett Favre isn't trying to be fancy this year. He's just playing smart football. Big divison game against the Lions today.


4. Jacksonville Jaguars
Move from Week 11: +2
Why?: The Colts better watch their division lead because the Jaguars are right behind them. Although not a spectacular performance, Quinn Gray did what he needed to do when Garrard was out with an injury and now Garrard is taking over for the rest of the season which is a sure-fire playoff clinch.


5. Indianapolis Colts
Move from Week 11: -2
Why?: Yes, they won, but very sloppy. Vinaterri had missed 4 FGs stemming from the previous game, but ended up hitting two consecutive onces including the game-winner. Peyton Manning had his worst 3 game stretch in his career (even possibly toppling his anything but great rookie season). The Falcons game could be waht they need to get back on track.


6. New York Giants
Move from Week 11: +1
Why?: Their biggest win of the season. After defeating the Lions away, they now games against the Vikings, Bears, Saints, Redskins, Eagles, and Pats. Besides the Pats, these are all games they should win.


7. Pittsburgh Steelers
Move from Week 11: -2
Why?: They cannot afford to lose games against the Jets when the Browns are right on their asses.


8. Cleveland Browns
Move from Week 11: +3
Why?: Close game against the Ravens, but this team is not settling for anything less than the playoffs and with the way they have been playing this is a high probability.


9. Seattle Seahawks
Move from Week 11: +3
Why?: They look like a whole new team under the resurgence of Hasselback. They said they were going to throw the ball more and they haven't been lying. Even though the Cardinals have been improving, the Seahawks look like the probable division winners.


10. Tennessee Titans
Move from Week 11: -1
Why?: Vince Young had a great game, but the defense couldn't contain the Broncos offense. How come when Vince Young does poorly this team wins, but when he does well they lose?


11. Detroit Lions
Move from Week 11: -1
Why?: Their loss against the Giants could cost them the playoffs. The Packers game today is the final straw. If they lose this, dont' expect to see them in the playoff picture.


12. San Diego Chargers
Move from Week 11: -4
Why?: What a bipolar team. They beat the Colts, they get dominated by the Vikings. This team has been back and forth all year and it looks like they'll remain this way. However in a horrible division, its quite possible you'll see them in the postseason.


13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Move from Week 11: +2
Why?: After much confusion in the NFC South, it looks like Tampa Bay will be the division winners.


14. Washington Redskins
Move from Week 11: -1
Why?: They lost, but it was too the NFC kings. This team, once looking like a probable playoff contender, is in a lot of trouble.


15. Buffalo Bills
Move from Week 11: -1
Why?: The Bills didn't play that bad. They just played the ridiculous Patriots. Hopefully they won't have the Colts effect and start on a downward spiral after their loss.


16. Arizona Cardinals
Move from Week 11: +3
Why?: I projected this team to be the sleeper team of the season and they very well might be at 5-5.


17. Denver Broncos
Move from Week 11: +3
Why?: After looking completely out of the picture, they have won 2 in a row and are now tied for first in their division. You could very well be seeing them in the postseason.


18. Philadelphia Eagles
Move from Week 11: +3
Why?: I still don't think they're good. They won 2 in a row, but it was against the Redskins and the horrible Dolphins. You will not be seeing them in the postseason. I guarantee it.


19. Baltimore Ravens
Move from Week 11: -3
Why?: Remember how good they were last year. I had them even winning the Super Bowl this year. Oh boy. The defense is great, but they have zero offense.


20. Houston Texans
Move from Week 11: +2
Why?: The Texans are back, but are unfortunately in the AFC South..the toughest division in football. Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson could make the rest of the season exciting to watch and hey maybe they can somehow pull off a wildcard clinch.


21. New Orleans Saints
Move from Week 11: -4
Why?: I'm not very optimistic about this team, but they have some HUGE divisional games coming up which could help them back in the playoff picture.


22. Kansas City Chiefs
Move from Week 11: -4
Why?: Losing by 3 to the Colts might look good on paper, but the Colts played a horrible game and the Chiefs couldn't take advantage of it. Although still right in the thick of the playoff picture, they won't make it.


23. Minnesota Vikings
Move from Week 11: +2
Why?: They're keeping any hopes of postseason play alive, but I think that'll all end next week against the Giants.


24. Carolina Panthers
Move from Week 11: -1
Why?: Even the 97 yr old Vinny Testevarde can't save their season.


25. Chicago Bears
Move from Week 11: -1
Why?: Did anyone really expect this team to be this bad? Yes, I never expected anything great out of the offense, but I was sure that their defense would be unstoppable. I guess I was wrong.


26. Atlanta Falcons
Move from Week 11: 0
Why?: If they want any glimmer of hope they need to take advantage of the poor playing by the Colts. A big upset against them could give this team a huge boost.


27. St. Louis Rams
Move from Week 11: +1
Why?: One of the two worst teams in football squared off and the result was a Rams victory.


28. New York Jets
Move from Week 11: +1
Why?: They're still horrible, but they pulled off an improbable win against the Steelers. To me that counts for something.


29. Cincinnati Bengals
Move from Week 11: -2
Why?: Easily the biggest disappointment of the season.


30. Oakland Raiders
Move from Week 11: 0
Why?: I had them going 2-14 at the beginning of the season, but thought I'd be wrong when they started off 2-2. Now at 2-8, it seems very possible.


31. San Francisco 49ers
Move from Week 11: 0
Why?: I'm just waiting for a Dolphins win to move this team to the last spot. This could be the worst offense in the history of football.


32. Miami Dolphins
Move from Week 11: 0
Why?: I really don't expect this team to go 0-16. In order for them to avoid this, they need to beat the Jets though. That to me is their only shot.

Lil' Romeo the next Jordan?

Before I discuss the title of the post, lets look at new album releases from last week.


Scale:
A- to A+: Universally Acclaimed

B- to B+: Overall positive reviews

C- to C+: Mixed reviews

D- to D+: Overall negative reveiws

F- to F+: Horrible



1. Seether-Finding Beauty in Negative Spaces
Average Critic Score: C-
Average Fan Score: C

Scores:
Rolling Stone: D
PopMatters: C+
Billboard: A-
Sputnikmusic: F+
CD Universe: A-


2. Blanche-Little Amber Bottles
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: B

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
The Onion: B-
Spin: C
Uncut: A-
New Musical Express: B


3. The Hives-The Black and White Album
Average Critic Score: B
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
Pitchfork: B-
PopMatters: B
Billboard: A-
The Onion: A-
Blender: C+


4. Puscifer-V is for Vagina
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: B-

Scores:
All Music Guide: C+
Rolling Stone: C
Billboard: D
The Onion: B-
Hartford Courant: A-



5. Celine Dion-Taking Chances
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: B+

Scores:
All Music Guide: C+
Billboard: A-
NOW Magazine: D+
Entertainment Weekly: C+
Slant Magazine: C


6. Duran Duran-Red Carpet Massacre
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: A

Scores:
All Music Guide: B
Rolling Stone: C+
PopMatters: C+
Billboard: C+
Blender: B


7. Stars of the Lid-And Their Refinement of the Decline
Average Critic Score: A+
Average Fan Score: B+

Scores:
All Music Guide: A
Pitchfork: A
PopMatters: A
Tiny Mix Tapes: A+
musicOMH.com: A+


8. White Williams-Smoke
Average Critic Score: B+
Average Fan Score: B-

Scores:
All Music Guide: A-
Pitchfork: A-
Blender: C+
cokemachineglow: B-
Tiny Mix Tapes: C


9. The Killers-Sawdust
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: B+

Scores:
All Music Guide: C+
Rolling Stone: C+
Billboard: A-
New Musical Express: C+
Slant Magazine: C+


10. Alicia Keys-As I Am
Average Critic Score: B-
Average Fan Score: A-

Scores:
All Music Guide: B
Rolling Stone: C+
Billboard: A-
Blender: A-
NOW Magazine: F+



Now onto Lil' Romeo. He just signed on to play basketball for USC. I guess the song "Stomped Out" really foreshadowed what this kid wanted to do (see lyrics). In his last year in high school he averaged 13.9 points and 5.6 assists. I guess the basketball gene runs in the family. Father, Master P, had tried out for two NBA teams back in the 90s. Now his fame isn't the reason why he got recruited. One recruited made mention that even at 6'0 and 170, he is within the top 15 point guards in the country.

NFL Power Rankings-Week 11

And then there was one. Miami is now the only team yet to win a game this season. Here are the power rankings going into week 11.


1. New England Patriots
Move from Week 10: 0
Why?: Duh


2. Dallas Cowboys
Move from Week 10: +1
Why?: Since I consider the Patriots in another league as everyone else, I'm going to say that the Cowboys are now #1 in the regular NFL. Big win over the Giants to have a cushy lead for the division.


3. Indianapolis Colts
Move from Week 10: -1
Why?: They almost pulled off the improbable. Down by a helluvalot with 5 interceptions by Manning (he ended up with 6) and the Colts still came within two. Two losses in a row was very unexpected by this team.


4. Green Bay Packers
Move from Week 10: 0
Why?: Couldn't move them up despite a dominant performance over the Vikings. Colts might have a worse record on paper, but they are still in my opinion, a better team.


5. Pittsburgh Steelers
Move from Week 10: +1
Why?: It's funny how much one game can affect a team. They looked like they were going to lose all game against the Browns, but managed to escape with a win. If they had lost that game I'm not sure they would have been in the top 10.


6. Jacksonville Jaguars
Move from Week 10: +3
Why?: Why the big surge in the rankings? They won the biggest game of the season without Dave Garrard. Now that he's coming back I sense an easy wild card clinch by this team (maybe even the division..who knows).


7. New York Giants
Move from Week 10: -2
Why?: Not a horrible performane against the Cowboys, but not very good either. If the Giants win next week against the Lions, they'll definitely make the playoffs. If not, you might see a repeat of last season sans a playoff birth.


8. San Diego Chargers
Move from Week 10: +4
Why?: You know what? Despite losing horribly two weeks ago to the Vikings, they pulled off a win against the Colts. I believe that loss to the Vikings was a huge wake up call and expect them to run away with this division.


9. Tennessee Titans
Move from Week 10: -2
Why?: They lost a huge game against the Jags. That being said, if the playoffs were decided right now they'd still clinch. Titans are performing well despite a mediocre showing from Vince Young. If he gets back on track this team will be fine.


10. Detroit Lions
Move from Week 10: -2
Why?: They had a chance to pull to 7-2 with a game against the Cards, but instead got their asses handed to them. They need to bring their A game against the Giants next week or the playoffs might not look like such a sure thing anymore.


11. Cleveland Browns
Move from Week 10: -1
Why?: Poor Browns. They had a huge lead against their division rivals and ended up blowing it. It's interesting to see if this team is going to recover from this big loss.


12. Seattle Seahawks
Move from Week 10: +2
Why?: They started throwing the ball and it really payed off. They absolutely destroyed the 49ers and any chance that team had of making a comeback in the division. This, in my opinion, was the best game the Seahawks had played all year.


13. Washington Redskins
Move from Week 10: -2
Why?: After looking like a probably playoff contender with the Giants, they are slowly slipping away. I really don't think this team has a shot at it despite being only game back. They can't pull off the division wins they desperately need.


14. Buffalo Bills
Move from Week 10: +4
Why?: They looked like they were going to hand Miami their first win, but instead escaped with a win. Winners of 5 in a row, but don't expect that to last with a game against the Pats next week.


15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Move from Week 10: +1
Why?: The Bucs need to take advantage of the Panthers and the Saints losing for a shot at the division. It's going to come down to the wire in my opinion.


16. Baltimore Ravens
Move from Week 10: -3
Why?: I like their impression of the 49ers offense. It was quite good. Well the performance wasn't good, but their impression was. Defense actually played quite well (only holding the Bengals to field goals), but the Bengals ended up kicking 7-7 with field goals and the Ravens couldn't capitilize on offense.


17. New Orleans Saints
Move from Week 10: -2
Why?: Really Saints? You have a shot at the division after a horrible start and you lose to the Rams.


18. Kansas City Chiefs
Move from Week 10: -1
Why?: This team can't afford to lose divisional games to the Broncos especially when the Chargers beat the Colts. Their playoff hopes to me are done.


19. Arizona Cardinals
Move from Week 10: +3
Why?: Nobody is really paying attention to this, but the Cardinals are only one game out of first. Yes it is the worst division in football, but the Cardinals could potentially take it.


20. Denver Broncos
Move from Week 10: +4
Why?: Big win over the Chiefs. However, I can't move them into the teens yet due to every other game this season.


21. Philadelphia Eagles
Move from Week 10: +4
Why?: A huge win over the Redskins makes this team not out of the playoffs yet. I dont' think this team is good at all nor do they have a shot in my opinion, but hey with the way this season has been so far you never know.


22. Houston Texans
Move from Week 10: -1
Why?: This team really isn't that bad especially compared to last season or the year before. They just happen to be stuck in the hardest division in football.


23. Carolina Panthers
Move from Week 10: -4
Why?: While tied for first, this team is in a lot of trouble. They lost to a lowly Falcons and their QB situation is a mess.


24. Chicago Bears
Move from Week 10: -1
Why?: Ok they won, but I'm still moving them down. You shouldn't have a nail biter game against the Raiders.


25. Minnesota Vikings
Move from Week 10: -5
Why?: They are in a lot of trouble with Adrian Peterson getting injured. They cannot win without the guy.


26. Atlanta Falcons
Move from Week 10: 0
Why?: They are now one win away from meeting my expectations for their season. With two wins in a row, the Falcons are actually on a streak now!


27. Cincinnati Bengals
Move from Week 10: 0
Why?: Them and the Falcons should have moved up, but I couldn't place them above any of these teams yet. With Carson Palmer as your QB you shouldn't be winning by kicking 7 field goals and scoring zero touchdowns.


28. St. Louis Rams
Move from Week 10: +4
Why?: Why am I moving them up this much? They are looking like a decent team again. They didn't win their first game by horrible playing by the Saints or any luck. They actually looked good. They might be back on track (although too little too late).


29. New York Jets
Move from Week 10: 0
Why?: I'm a Giants fan and while I already hate the Jets, I'm now officially embarrassed to have this team play in our stadium.


30. Oakland Raiders
Move from Week 10: -2
Why?: The first time all season they are ranked this low. After starting a promising 2-2 they are now 2-7. This is the Raiders we remember from last year.


31. San Fransisco 49ers
Move from Week 10: +1
Why?: If the Dolphins would have won this team would be ranked last. Their first two wins of the season helped saved this team from a last place ranking. They are horrible. Zero offense and not a great defense either.


32. Miami Dolphins
Move from Week 10: -1
Why?: Chatman will be the reason they win their first game, but it might not happen for a while after blowing a lead against the Bills.