NFL Power Rankings Week 18

Well folks, the season has ended and the Patriots are the first undefeated team since the Dolphins of '72. In fact, the Patriots have established themselves as the best team in NFL history with their win over the Giants. Here are the final power rankings for the 2007 NFL season. Stay tuned tonight or tomorrow for playoff predictions.


1. New England Patriots
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: Most people would have you believe that the Patriots were in a lot of trouble against the Giants on Saturday night. If they were any other team that would have been the case, but the Pats are too good of a team to lose their last game of the season to the G-men.


2. Indianapolis Colts
Move from Week 17: +1
Why?: Jim Sorgi is the reason this team moved up one spot in the rankings. Had Manning played the entire game he would have rolled over the Titans. The same couldn't be said about the Cowboys who got destroyed by the Redskins.


3. Dallas Cowboys
Move from Week 17: -1
Why?: They are still the best team in the NFC, but that doesn't mean it is smooth sailing for this Cowboys team. Yes they rested injured starters, but they were also going for their franchise record 14th win and couldn't even come close against a red hot Redskins team. They might experience some deja vu with a possible playoff game against them.


4. Jacksonville Jaguars
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: Quinn Gray played very well, but it wasn't enough to beat the Texans. With Garrard, Taylor, and Jones-Drew this team should have a repeat victory easily over the Steelers. Keep an eye out for a surprising upset by this team throughout the playoffs.


5. Green Bay Packers
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: Even with some rested starters the Packers completely destroyed the Lions. Many people are saying the Cowboys for a Super Bowl entry, but the Packers are looking like a stronger team right now.


6. San Diego Chargers
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: I said this last week, but they are the hottest team in the NFL besides the Pats. They have won 6 straight to secure a 3rd seed which is remarkable after looking like they might not even make the playoffs halfway through the season.


7. New York Giants
Move from Week 17: +1
Why?: It is really unfair for me to say this, but if the Giants played the way they did against the Pats against any other team it would have probably resulted in a victory. The running game is looking great, Eli had his best game of the season, Hixon was impressive on special times, and the defense was good despite giving up 38 points. I expect them to coast through the first round.


8. Seattle Seahawks
Move from Week 17: -1
Why?: I don't care if it is a meaningless game, you should not give up 44 points to the Falcons. They'll struggle against a red hot Redskins team.


9. Pittsburgh Steelers
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: Unlike the Seahawks, their meaningless loss against the Ravens is exactly that, meaningless. However, they are up against a terrific Jaguars team which will probably result in a first round loss.


10. Tennessee Titans
Move from Week 17: +2
Why?: In a close battle against the Colts, the Titans escaped with a victory and a 6th seed clinch. Although they don't look as good as their 6-2 start would indicated, they ended the season on a high note which is important going into the playoffs.


11. Washington Redskins
Move from Week 17: +2
Why?: Two weeks ago, entering Week 15 against the Giants, I would say this team had no shot of getting in, but they won 3 in a row including huge games against the Vikings and Cowboys and have rightfully earned their spot as the 6th seed.


12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Move from Week 17: -1
Why?: Again, I'm repetitive when I say this, but this team is the weakest of the playoff teams. Jeff Garcia may be 2-0 against the Giants in the playoffs, but that might not make a difference this time around for the Buccs.


13. Cleveland Browns
Move from Week 17: -3
Why?: They won a meaningless game against the 49ers (by a lot actually), but I rarely will put a non-playoff team in the top 12 unless its an obvious choice. The Browns might have a case against the Buccs and even the Redskins as a better team, but it's not enough to put them ahead of them. This team has impressed me all year however and should be as good next year.


14. Philadelphia Eagles
Move from Week 17: +1
Why?: They looked good against the Bills. After a disappointing start to the season, they finished strong and will probably be a playoff contender come next year.


15. Minnesota Vikings
Move from Week 17: -1
Why?: The Vikings fell short to the Broncos in a game that wouldn't have mattered anyway. While exceeding the expectations set in the beginning of the year, they still ended the season disappointingly after their surge under the running game of Adrian Peterson.


16. Houston Texans
Move from Week 17: +3
Why?: The Texans had their best season in franchise history with a victor of the Jaguars. Expect even better things from them next season.


17. New Orleans Saints
Move from Week 17: -1
Why?: Its hard to figure out why this team was 7-9 this season. It's hard to say they'll need to make some changes going into next season when this lineup worked so well two years ago.


18. Buffalo Bills
Move from Week 17: -1
Why?: After being booted from the playoffs with the loss to the Browns, this team never recovered (its funny that the Browns didn't even make the playoffs). They could still be a playoff candidate next season if they continue to use Trent Edwards.


19. Arizona Cardinals
Move from Week 17: +1
Why?: I really don't think this team exceeded expectations or went below them (they went below mine however). It was important for them to avoid a losing season which is what they did when they pounced on the Rams.


20. Chicago Bears
Move from Week 17: +1
Why?: A hugely disappointing season for the Bears. I can't really see them improving next season unless they make some huge acquisitions during the draft.


21. Detroit Lions
Move from Week 17: -3
Why?: 6-2 to 7-9. That is not just bad, that is horrendous. They couldn't even end the season with a .500 record. Although a big improvement over last season, this team needs to make some big changes.


22. Denver Broncos
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: They beat the Vikings in OT to end the season at 7-9, what does that mean? A worst spot in the draft.


23. Carolina Panthers
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: A very up and down season for this team. As long as Jake Delhomme stays healthy next season, expect this team to be a playoff contender.


24. Cincinnati Bengals
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: They won...against the Dolphins....which really doesn't mean that much. They finished the season 7-9 which is a big disappointment given all the talent they have on their team.


25. New York Jets
Move from Week 17: +2
Why?: The win over the Chiefs has officially made this team the best out of the bad teams (bad team is a team that is 6-10 or worse). We'll see where they stand next year.


26. San Francisco 49ers
Move from Week 17: -1
Why?: I'll be blunt, stick with Shaun Hill going into next season. Shaun Hill=2-0, the rest of the starters=2-13. Enough said.


27. Oakland Raiders
Move from Week 17: -1
Why?: JaMarcus Russell looked a lot better in his first start going 23 for 31 for 224 yards. The Raiders need to take advantage of this going into next season if this team wants to be taken seriously.


28. Kansas City Chiefs
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: What else is there to say about this team? They are horrible. They lost 9 in a row. Seriously what else is there to say?


29. Baltimore Ravens
Move from Week 17: +1
Why?: A win over the Steelers isn't enough to save poor ol' Bill's job. Who can blame the Ravens organization though? The once dominant Ravens team ended the season 5-11.


30. St. Louis Rams
Move from Week 17: -1
Why?: If you want to look at the Rams season for any optimistic point of view, they started the season 0-8 in the first half and ended up with a 3-5 record. Ok, I'm trying to give Rams fans some hope.


31. Atlanta Falcons
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: They scored a lot of points, 44, against their win over the Seahawks, but also gave up 41 against their reserves. After ended 4-12 on the season they might want to find a way to break Vick out of jail.


32. Miami Dolphins
Move from Week 17: 0
Why?: 1-15. I don't care how many games were lost by 3, 1-15 shows how bad of the team the Dolphins are and how they are in a LOT of trouble going into next season as well.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

NFL Power Rankings-Week 9

The most anticipated game of the season (Patriots vs. Colts) is next Sunday. I'm predicting a 10 point win by the Patriots (34-24 to be exact), but lets save that for a future post. Here are the rankings going into week 9.


1. New England Patriots
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: There has been many complaints that the Patriots were being "unfair" in their 52-7 win over the Redskins by not taking out Brady earlier and by going for it on 4th with a substantial lead. My reaction? Get over it. If you're getting beaten that badly do something about it. Don't use the Patriots as your scapegoat for not being able to stack up against them.


2. Indianapolis Colts
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: They could be seeing a number 1 ranking for the first time this year if they defeat the Patriots this Sunday.


3. Dallas Cowboys
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: Tony Romo just signed a huge contract with this team. They are hoping he'll be the next Troy Aikman. Big game against a struggeling Eagles next week (they've been 1-7 against them out of their last 8).


4. Green Bay Packers
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: I've said this every time, but this team just keeps finding ways to win games that they shouldn't win. They kept it extra close against the Broncos winning it on an OT touchdown. Honestly, if this team was a hair worse they could easily be 1-6 instead of 6-1.


5. New York Giants
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: People have been giving them a lot of crap for barely beating the Dolphins in London, but the whole game was unfair (for both teams) and I couldn't move this team down no matter how close the game was. The field conditions were horrendous and I'm sure both teams suffered some jet lag. If this was in Dolphins territory the Giants would have won by more.


6. Jacksonville Jaguars
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: I'm impressed that this team managed to win a game against a decent team without Garrard. If you can win games with Quinn Gray then you have nothing to worry about.


7. Pittsburgh Steelers
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: After losing to a struggeling Broncos team, they pull off a big win against an een more struggeling Bengals. Big division games against the Browns and Ravens coming up.


8. Tennessee Titans
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: The top 8 teams remain the same (they all won or were on a bye). Vince Young though needs to get this offense rolling more.


9. San Diego Chargers
Move from Week 8: +1
Why?: Its easy to forget about the Chargers when the Patriots and Colts exist, but this team is red hot. They not only have been winning, they have been dominating.


10. Detroit Lions
Move from Week 8: +4
Why?: 5-2! That is the Lions record this year. I'm very impressed by this team. Not only that, they are undefeated against their division.


11. Baltimore Ravens
Move from Week 8: +1
Why?: Their season is on the line with a HUGE game against the Steelers.


12. Washington Redskins
Move from Week 8: -3
Why?: They looked horrible against the Patriots, but I guess any team who plays the Patriots looks pretty bad.


13. Seattle Seahawks
Move from Week 8: +2
Why?: This is the #2 game I'm excited about next week. Yes you heard right. Them and the Browns are facing off which will prove whether or not Seattle deserves to win the division that they practically already clinched and whether or not the Browns are the real deal.


14. Kansas City Chiefs
Move from Week 8: +2
Why?: Remember when this team was ranked among the bottom of the pack with the Rams and Dolphins? No more. This team is 4-1 after starting the season 0-2.


15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Move from Week 8: -4
Why?: Yes they only lost by 1 point, but this team is in a lot of trouble. After looking like probably playoff contenders they are 4-4 and still missing a star RB.


16. Carolina Panthers
Move from Week 8: -3
Why?: After starting the game strong against the Colts this team absolutely fell apart. The inability for David Carr to be a starting QB is showing.


17. Cleveland Browns
Move from Week 8: +1
Why?: This team is like one of those PG movies where you have a big underdog who comes against the odds and wins. The Browns are supposed to be bad. It is their trademark. They are now sitting at a surprising 4-3 and are playing a huge game against the Seahawks. If they win, I'm going to SKYROCKET this team in the rankings.


18. New Orleans Saints
Move from Week 8: +2
Why?: They are winning the games they are supposed to be winning. That being said, that equals a 3 game winning streak and they are now only one game behind the Panthers.


19. Arizona Cardinals
Move from Week 8: -2
Why?: This team suffered a huge loss two weeks ago by missing a PAT. A taem like this can't afford to make mistakes like that.


20. Buffalo Bills
Move from Week 8: +3
Why?: They win like the Ravens win. The team kicks a few field goals, struggles a bit on offense, but manages to pull of a win. They still have won 3 out of their last 4 (the only loss was a battle against the Cowboys). Hey they even won last week under the QB-ing of JP Losman. Anything is possible!


21. Denver Broncos
Move from Week 8: -2
Why?: Even though they lost last week to the Packers I wouldn't be too discouraged about this team. They won the week before against an exceptional Steelers team and they lost to a 5-1, at the time, Packers team in OT.


22. Philadelphia Eagles
Move from Week 8: +2
Why?: Don't get too excited Eagles fans. They beat the Vikings, but I will guarantee a loss to the Cowboys next week even though they've won 7 out of their last 8 against them.


23. Chicago Bears
Move from Week 8: -2
Why?: Brian Griese had a QB rating of 38.3 on Sunday. Do I need to say anything else?


24. Houston Texans
Move from Week 8: -2
Why?: I remember through week 4 or 5 how I thought this team finally had a legite shot of at least a wildcard. Since then, the team just can't seem to win games.


25. Minnesota Vikings
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: Yeah they lost to the Eagles last week, but I can't move this team down (I can't move them up either). Look at the remaining 7 teams and can you honestly say that any of them deserve to be ahead of the Vikings?


26. Cincinnati Bengals
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: Oh boy. They are playing a pretty hot Bills team next Sunday. Looking at the Bengals schedule prior to this season's start I would have said this was a gimme game for Bengals, but now I'm almost leaning towards the opposite.


27. Oakland Raiders
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: It's unfortunate that after a decent start this team is now sitting at 2-5. What is even more frustrating is that they keep it close, but their offense just can't seem to do enough to win games.


28. Atlanta Falcons
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: As you'll see, just like the top 8 teams have remained the same in the rankings, the same goes for the bottom teams. Not much new to say about this team. They still suck and they'll suck for the rest of the season.


29. San Francisco 49ers
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: They have lost 5 straight and now are playing their next 5 games on the road. This can spell a 2-10 record.


30. New York Jets
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: Smart move to bench Pennington. That doesn't mean it'll have any real positive impact on this team..for this season anyway.


31. Miami Dolphins
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: Ronnie Brown who? Chatman was playing in London like the playoffs were on the line. He might have the ability to bring this team to a 2-14 record!


32. St. Louis Rams
Move from Week 8: 0
Why?: They are showing signs of life on offense (although very slowly). Steven Jackson should be fully recovered after the bye week. It is possible you'll finally see this team win a couple of games.

NFL Power Rankings-Week 8

The Patriots and Colts continue to remain a dominate team while the Rams and Dolphins are..well...the Rams and Dolphins. Here are the power rankings going into week 8.


1. New England Patriots
Move from Week 7: 0
Why?-This isn't even fair anymore. They were leading by the half 42-7 agains the Dolphins with Brady throwing for 5 touchdown passes. This team is having all sorts of fun.


2. Indianapolis Colts
Move from Week 7: 0
Why?-They won a big game last night against the Jags. This game was a completely different than last year's faceoff due to the return of Barry Sanders and it showed. I'm very excited about their game against the Patriots.


3. Dallas Cowboys
Move from Week 7: 0
Why?-The game against the Vikings was a lot tougher than people realize, but the Cowboys were able to control Peterson enough to win the game. Tony Romo is still looking like an easy Pro-Bowl candidate and the Cowboys are still looking like the kings of the NFC.


4. Green Bay Packers
Move from Week 7: +2
Why?-The only reason they moved up during their bye week because there were a lot of losses. The Packers look like the real deal, but they face road trips against the Chiefs and Broncos. If they win those expect them to coast to the playoffs.


5. New York Giants
Move from Week 7: +3
Why?-After struggeling in the first two games in the season, this team has been looking great in their last 5. The defense is one of the best in the leagues right now and Eli isn't looking so horrible. Brandon Jacobs is also proving himself fit for the roll of the "go to guy" in terms of running the ball. They should have an easy game next Sunday against the Dolphins in London.


6. Jacksonville Jaguars
Move from Week 7: -2
Why?-Can't really move this team too far down yet. Their loss last night came to a dominating Colts team and they had to take out a very good Garrard in the beginning of the game due to an injury and replace him a not-so-good Gray. If Garrard is expected to miss a fe games it can really hurt this team.


7. Pittsburgh Steelers
Move from Week 7: -3
Why?-I really expected this team to dominate against the Broncos, but they lost on a last second field goal. A game in Cincinnati will be tougher than people anticipate for this Steelers team.


8. Tennessee Titans
Move from Week 7: +1
Why?-They almost blew a 25 point lead against the Titans, but managed to hang on to the win with a last second field goal kick (this seems to be a theme this year). This team is pulling off wins without Vince Young and should pull to a 5-2 record when they face the Raiders next week.


9. Washington Redskins
Move from Week 7: +2
Why?-A blotched PAT by the Cards was the difference between a win and an OT decision for this game. The Skins like to keep it close, but they manage to pull off the win which is the most important thing.


10. San Diego Chargers
Move from Week 7: +2
Why?-Another team moving up during their bye week due to other teams' losses. This team is red hot right now and that is dangerous for everybody else. They'll be extra confident with the new addition of Chris Chambers.


11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Move from Week 7: -4
Why?-They lost to a streaky Lions team where Garcia put up some good numbers, but had two crucial fumbles. This team can't afford to lose games like these.


12. Baltimore Ravens
Move from Week 7: -2
Why?-The Bills might be rejuvinated under Edwards leadership, but that is no excuse for the Ravens to lose to them. However, this team has been overrated the entire year. Their defense is excellent usually, but they have zero offense.


13. Carolina Panthers
Move from Week 7: 0
Why?-A loss by the Bucs has moved this team into first place on their own during their bye week. I'm curious to see if this team can keep it up with the elderly Testaverde and the anything but good David Carr in the QB role.


14. Detroit Lions
Move from Week 7: +1
Why?-They might streaky, but they are only trailing a very good Packers team by one game in the division. The Packers face a semi-tough road schedule coming up and the Lions face a not-so-good Bears team next week which means this team be on top in the NFC North.


15. Seattle Seahawks
Move from Week 7: -1
Why?-They had a field day against a horrible Rams team on Sunday. The only reason I'm not moving this team up is because Alexander is still continuing to struggle. His needs to break out of his slump in order for this team to have any shot of a good season.


16. Kansas City Chiefs
Move from Week 7: +1
Why?-Slowly, but surely this team is climbing up in the rankings. Expect this team to continue to climb as long as LJ keeps having good games.


17. Arizona Cardinals
Move from Week 7: -1
Why?-If you looked at the stats and not the score of Sunday's game against the Skins you would say that this team dominated. Well that wasn't the case. A botched PAT, a failed two point conversion, and a 55 yard field goal miss could all be the reasons this team doesn't make the playoffs.


18. Cleveland Browns
Move from Week 7: 0
Why?-I'm definitely routing for this team to destroy the Rams next week. They have the potential to be above .500 for the first time since god knows when.


19. Denver Broncos
Move from Week 7: +1
Why?-An impressive win over a very good Steelers team. At 3-3 this team doesn't look so out of the runnings anymore.


20. New Orleans Saints
Move from Week 7: +5
Why?-These are the games the Saints need to win and they're pulling it off (although barely). Next week against a struggeling 49ers team is just what this team needs to get back on track.


21. Chicago Bears
Move from Week 7: +3
Why?-This spot was a 3-way toss up for me between the Bears and the next two teams in the rankings. The win over the Eagles was the deciding factor though. A 21-yard pass to Hester set up the game winning touchdown. This team is starting to get it, give the ball to Hester and everything will be ok!


22. Houston Texans
Move from Week 7: -3
Why?-I'll give them credit for pulling off a great comeback against the Titans, but they couldn't hold onto it so here they are. This team doesn't deserve to move down 3 spots for their loss, but last week was a crazy week so I had no choice.


23. Buffalo Bills
Move from Week 7: +4
Why?-Edwards is having some start. Since taking over Losman as QB he is 2-1 with a last second loss against the Cowboys. Lets see if this guy can keep it up.


24. Philadelphia Eagles
Move from Week 7: -3
Why?-Everyone (including all the "experts") keep saying how tight the NFC East is going to be with EVERY team. Apparently they don't realize that the Eagles are in this division. They are 2-4 this season with an ugly win over the Jets and one good win over the Lions. With the way the Cowboys, Giants, and Redskins are playing this team has absolutely no shot.


25. Minnesota Vikings
Move from Week 7: -3
Why?-Just like the Texans, it is unfair to move this team down 3 spots after Sunday's loss to a very good Cowboys team, but I couldn't put them any higher than this right now. As long as Peterson stays healthy I expect this team to move back up.


26. Cincinnati Bengals
Move from Week 7: +1
Why?-I'll give them a pity move up after a win against the Jets although they really don't deserve it that much. I see some rankings that moved this team as high as five spots after their win against the Jets. I can't do it. Somebody had to win the game and it was just the better of two horrible teams.


27. Oakland Raiders
Move from Week 7: -4
Why?-Ah Oakland. After being first in the division two weeks ago they are now dead last with two straight losses. Still a better team than last year, but not good enough to be playoff contenders.


28. Atlanta Falcons
Move from Week 7: +1
Why?-In my opinion they look the best out of the bottom 5 teams. Looking their best still means losing to a 1-4 Saints team.


29. San Francscio 49ers
Move from Week 7: -3
Why?-Remember how this team started 2-0? That's all a memory now after losing 4 straight and having arguably the worst offense in the league. They need to give the ball to Frank Gore constantly in order for this team to have any shot of winning more games.


30. New York Jets
Move from Week 7: 0
Why?-They needed to beat a struggeling Bengals team in order to gain some confidence back, but they couldn't do it. When Pennington has a great game (great for him anyway) and the team can't beat a 1-4 Bengals you know you're season is done for.


31. Miami Dolphins
Move from Week 7: 0
Why?-Just how bad are they? Look at the first half of Sunday's game against the Patriots. They were losing 42-7 by the half. Now Brown is out for the season and this could spell an 0-16 record for this team.


32. St. Louis Rams
Move from Week 7: 0
Why?-I have San Diego and Seattle's defense for my fantasy team and since San Diego was on a bye I used Seattle's defense. I probably would have used them anyway considering they were playing the Rams. Well I'm glad I did use them because they gave me almost as many points as Brady did (yeah I had a dominant week). I really want them to play the Dolphins so I can personally witness the worst football game in history.