Week 9 NFL Pick 'Em

Alright, after starting this almost halfway through the season, we had the consistancy to do this two weeks in a row! Ok here are our picks:


New York Jets @ Buffalo Bills

Nick: Bills
- I still think they are the real deal, and at home after an embarressing loss to the Dolphins.
Steve: Bills
- I'm taking the Bills too. Like I said in my Power Rankings, I just don't think the Jets are that good. I'm not buying anything about their team. I'm still waiting for Brett Favre to have a Brett Favre game (i.e. 15-32 263 yrd 1 td, 3 int)

Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears

Nick: Bears
- If Detroit ever won a game, but nobody was there to see or hear it, did it ever really happen?

Steve: Bears
- How depressing is it to be a Lions fan right now? You fully expect to lose to KYLE ORTON!

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Cincinnati Bengals

Nick: Jaguars
- Speaking of terrible teams, this could be the first year TWO teams go 0-16...and it seriously could happen.

Steve: Jaguars
- I don't think the Bengals will go 0-16, and I almost picked them to win this one...but they won't. By the way, does anybody else remember Legends of the Hidden Temple? Obviously, you do. Well if I remember correctly, wasn't one of the teams the green Jaguars? If so, isn't it weird that Jacksonville's team colors includes green. I can't be the only one who thought of this.

Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns

Nick: Ravens
- Baltimore is starting to pick it up a bit, and a 2-QB offense may be starting to bloom.
Steve: Browns
- The Ravens will be lucky to win 3 more games this year. The new Browns have been playing much better the past 4 weeks and they are at home against the old Browns. I'd hate to be on the old Browns and be playing in front of the new Browns fans, who used to be old Browns fans.

Green Bay Packers @ Tennessee Titans
Nick: Titans
- The Tennesse D looked vulnerable to passes behind the linebackers, mainly to the TE. Look for them to shut down that passing lane and also shut down the Pack.

Steve: Titans
- The Titans will lose this year. I just do not know when, and its definitely not this week.

Tampa Bay Bucs @ Kansas City Chiefs
Nick: Bucs
- Dude...its Kansas City.
Steve: Bucs
- Kansas City is not good. Tampa Bay is good. The good team will beat the not good team.

Arizona Cardinals @ St. Louis Rams
Nick: Cardinals
- Kurt Warner could throw for 400 yards and 4 TDs and I would not be surprised.
Steve: Cardinals
- This game was tough for me to pick. The Cardinals are, well, the Cardinals. Proof being last week's loss. The Rams have looked better and Steven Jackson should be playing. I just still cannot bring myself to pick them.

Houston Texans @ Minnesota Vikings
Nick: Texans
- Another surprise team, the Texansare poised to get back to .500 against a struggling Minnesota D.

Steve: Vikings
- Houston has a great offense, but a bad defense. Minnesota has a good defense, and a decent offense. I'm betting on Minnesota's decent offense to outplay Houston's bad defense.

Miami Dolphins @ Denver Broncos
Nick: Dolphins
- Denver's defense is just horrible, and Cutler hasn't had a good game in about 3 or 4 weeks. Quick fantasy note: Chad Pennington could have a great game here. Denver's defense is HORRIBLE and he's been consistent (200 yards and a TD) for the past few weeks.

Steve: Broncos
- The Dolphins are not going to creep up on anyone else this year. The Broncos are at home and coming off of a bye week. I'd expect to see Cutler put up huge numbers this week.

Atlanta Falcons @ Oakland Raiders
Nick: Falcons
- They are poised to go 5-3 and can make some noise in the competitive NFC South.
Steve: Raiders
- The Falcons are a surprising, yet average team. Average teams with rookie quarterbacks do not win many road games. The Raiders are not that good, but not as bad as everyone thinks.

Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants
Nick: Giants
- Dallas looks HORRIBLE and with Jason Witten out, Brad Johnson just lost his number one target.

Steve: Giants
- This game would have been much tougher to pick if Tony "Cheeseburger" Romo was playing. But, like Nick said, without Jason Witten, Brad Johnson is going to miss the only person he could throw the ball deep enough to reach.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Seattle Seahawks
Nick: Eagles
- If I have to hear that song one more time....
Steve: Eagles
- Fly Eagles Fly! On the road to victory! Fly Eagles Fly! To a touchdown, one, two three! Hit 'em low, hit 'em high, and watch those Eagles Fly! Fly Eagles Fly! On the road to victory!
E-A-G-L-E-S EAGLES!

New England Patriots @ Indianapolis Colts
Nick: Patriots
- This is the most interesting matchup of the week, but for reasons different than in the past. New England needs this to keep its head above water in the AFC East, and Indy needs this just to stay in playoff contention. A loss here for the Colts can take them out of the playoff race.

Steve: Patriots
- This game would have been much tougher to pick if Peyton Manning didn't look like a senior citizen in the pocket. I agree that its an important game for both teams. But the Patriots are more than holding their own with Matt Cassell and will make the playoffs. Indy is the team that might not finish .500.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Washington Redskins
Nick: Redskins
- I said it last week, and I'll say it again, I don't buy this Pittsburgh team AT ALL. The offensive line is terrible, Roethlisberger is on his back more than Jenna Jameson in her prime, and their second leading receiver is too busy SMOKIN' DOOBIES DOWN BY THE RIVER!

Steve: Redskins
- I'm going to be in a lot of trouble for this pick. The Steelers are my girlfriends favorite team, and the Redskins are her least favorite team. Boy, am I in trouble! I still think the Redskins are overrated and I still think that the Steelers will finish 2nd in the AFC, getting a bye in the first round of the playoffs.


Last week:
Nick 9-5
Steve 7-7

Week 9 NFL Power Rankings

This week's version of the Power Rankings are dedicated to Bill Simmons. He once cared about the NFL, but that part of him died when the NBA became "relevant" again. Ok here is the latest edition of my NFL Power Rankings:

1. New York Giants (6-1)
I still do not think this team is that good. They won because a backup longsnapper caused a safety on a punt. But they are 6-1 and have the best record in the NFC. They are locks for the post-season. I just have a hard time seeing this team winning the Super Bowl again. No team, or QB is that lucky.

2. Tennessee Titans (7-0)
They laid the smack down on the Colts Monday night. With this win, the Titans are now in cruise control for the rest of the season with a 4 game lead on everyone in their division. What was most surprising about this win was that the offense put up a lot of points. But I guess that should not shock anyone seeing Indy's defense is pathetic, especially against the run.

3. Washington Redskins (6-2)
Beating the lowly Lions, the 'skins move to 6-2 and are on pace for 12 wins. Did anyone really anticipate Coach Zorn getting so much from this team so soon? Zorn has brought something that Joe Gibbs lacked the past few seasons-backbone. Clinton Portis, while a beast this season, has had a tendancy to play and practice when he wants. Zorn has shown him whose boss by keeping him on the sidelines when he feels its necessary and is able to do so by spelling him with Shaun Alexander. The next two weeks will be tough with games against Pittsburgh and Dallas.

4. Tampa Bay Bucs (5-3)
I really thought that after the loss to Dallas this team would have dropped much further in the rankings. However, a top 5 defense is anchoring this team's success. The offense is still in the top half of the league. This team has some easy games coming up with two out of the next three against Kansas City and Detroit. This team could easily finish the season with 10 wins.

5. Dallas Cowboys (5-3)
Is America's team back after beating the Bucs this past weekend in Dallas? I'm not sure. Brad Johnson looked terrible. The defense, which I thought would have been one of the better ones in the league, finally showed up to play this past weekend. The next two games are against division foes in the NY Giants and Redskins. I bet Cowboys fans are wishing Romo was playing in these important division games.

6. Buffalo Bills (5-2)
After losing to Miami this weekend, I am becoming increasingly skeptical about the Bills. This loss is keeping the Bills from becoming one of the elite teams in the AFC this season. They have a very good record, but they squeeked by some weak teams. The next three games are against the NY Jets, the Patriots, and the resurging Browns. It will be critical to win at least two of those games. If not, this team might fall back in the pack a bit.

7. Carolina Panthers (6-2)
This team is certainly outperforming my expectations for them this season. The comeback win against the Cardinals showed their character. Steve Smith had a great month of October, compiling 447 receiving yards and three touchdown receptions. After two games against Oakland and Detroit, the schedule will be a little bit more difficult for the rest of the season. This should be a playoff team, though.

8. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2)
This was a tough loss to stomach at home. They lost because of a safety, but they did have two opportunities at the end of the game to come back and score. Missing starting WR Santonio Holmes because of a drug-related suspension hurt. He should be back in the lineup Monday night. The defense is still the best in the league, but this team has a very tough schedule for the rest of the season including games against the Redskins, Colts, Patriots, Cowboys, and Titans. All things considered, still winning the NFC North. Monday night at the Redskins should be a great game.

9. Philadelphia Eagles (4-3)
What else can you say about Brian Westbrook? When he's not playing, the Eagles still might have a chance, but once he is back on the field, the offense performs at a completely different level. He is the player Reggie Bush was supposed to be. Many people think of Westbrook as being a pass catching RB, but this guy had 167 yards rushing this weekend. He is very, very versatile. Two out of the next three are against the Seahawks and Bengals. They have to take advantage of those weaker opponents and pile up some wins because they still have two games against the Giants, one against the Cowboys, and one against the Redskins.

10. Minnesota Vikings (3-4)
This team didn't even play this weekend and have two teams ahead of them in their division who are ranked below them, yet they still moved up in the rankings. Why? I do not know. This may be a good opportunity to explain how my rankings work. It is completely mathematical. It is not subjective at all. It takes in factors including offensive and defensive statistics, wins, losses, and opponents played to date. If this was subjective, this team would be much lower because I think they stink.

11. Arizona Cardinals (4-3)
This past weekend was just the Cardinals being the Cardinals. Obviously, they would lose the game they were winning the majority of. They are 4-3 and could go .500 for the season and win their division by 2 games. Goodell interfers in everything in the NFL, its time for him to interfere inthe NFC West. This division has been a joke for about five years. No team should make the playoffs if they are not over .500.

12. Chicago Bears (4-3)
Coming off a bye, the Bears play the Lions. Let's add a W to the win column. However, the road is tough ahead for the Bears. I really would not be surprised if this team does not make the playoffs. Really, how far can Kyle Orton carry them?

13. New England Patriots (5-2)
This past week was not a pretty win against a week St. Louis team playing without Steven Jackson, but its nice for Matt Cassell to start a winning streak. The weak secondary's holes are becoming worse as players continue to get hurt. That secondary could be exposed this Sunday night against the Colts. With 9 games left, this team could realistically win 7 more games and finish 12-4. But it could also realistically go 4-5, finish 9-7 and miss the playoffs.

14. New York Jets (4-3)
This team will finish better than 4-12 like they were last year, but I don't think they are better than a .500 team. Brett Favre has brought some offense to the Jets, but they still are not making the playoffs.

15. Green Bay Packers (4-3)
Coming off the bye week, the Packers have a lot of work to do the rest of the season. They only have one cupcake game left (Lions), but everyone else they play is a decent team. Aaron Rodgers and this offense are putting up points though, so anything can happen.

16. Atlanta Falcons (4-3)
This team is still much better than people thought, but they are slowly coming back to Earth. It will be a major accomplishment if this team finishs above .500. I think it can. This running game is the real deal and has taken a lot of pressure off of Matt Ryan. I bet the Chargers are wishing they still had Michael Turner.

17. Baltimore Ravens (4-3)
This is a great defense. Still not buying Joe Flacco (for this year, looking good for the future) and this offense. This team still plays games against five good teams (Giants, Eagles, Steelers, Cowboys, Redskins) and three decent teams (Browns, Jaguars, Texans) and one bad team (Bengals). Winning 8 games would be a great first year for Coach Harbaugh and Flacco.

18. Houston Texans (3-4)
After losing the first four games, they have won three straight. Andre Johnson is ridiculous. Steve Slaton looks like a great pick. I don't think they are a playoff team yet, but they are heading in the right direction. This is a Top 5 offense they have put together.

19. Miami Dolphins (3-4)
A surprising win over the Bills. This team is not making the playoffs. But what a turnaround they have had. From basement dweller to probably an 8-8 team. I think they could end up beating out the Jets for 3rd place in the conference, which would be big step. They still have a lot of games against bad teams.

20. Denver Broncos (4-3)
Coming off the bye, this team still has some easy games remaining, and the Chargers refuse to be a good team. With that said, the Broncos make the playoffs behind the arm of Jay "My arm is stronger than John Elway's" Cutler. The defense is really, really bad.

21. Cleveland Browns (3-4)
This team started out slow, but is starting to play much better. As Nick said to me, Derek Anderson (and I'll add Romeo Crennel) are holding onto their jobs by dental floss. The defense is looking better and Braylon Edwards finally decided to show up. Kellen Winslow is a headcase.

22. New Orleans Saints (4-4)
Even with a win over the Chargers in London, the Saints surprising dropped in the rankings. This offense, led by Drew Brees, really is potent. Marques Colston needs to start producing (for my fantasy team) and Reggie Bush will be back on the field soon (again, for the sake of my fantasy team).

23. Indianapolis Colts (3-4)
This team just looks absolutely terrible. I cannot figure out why they look so bad, not that I am complaining. Is it the lack of a defense, is Peyton still not healthy, is it no Joseph Addai? I don't know, but this team is not making the playoffs playing the way they are now. They have a big game at home against the Patriots. A loss this week and they might as well go into tank mode.

24. San Diego Chargers (3-5)
This team has struggled enough this season, but a trip halfway across the world to London did not make things any easier. A bye this week, at the mid point, should help them regroup and finish the season off strong. If they fail to make the playoffs, Norv Turner has to be fired.

25. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-4)
Who would have thought at the beginning of the season that the Colts, Chargers and Jaguars would all be at the bottom half of the league? Not I. Both the offense and the defense have taken steps back from last season.

26. St. Louis Rams (2-5)
After two straight wins, the Rams came back to Earth with a loss against the Patriots. Granted they had no Steven Jackson. Coach Linehan is looking like a much better choice at head coach though.

27. Oakland Raiders (2-5)
Really not much to say here. I thought the defense would be better, but its not. JaMarcus Russell does not look good. I don't know if he needed another year, or if he is better suited to play defensive end, not quarterback.

28. Seattle Seahawks (2-5)
So Mike Holmgren didn't leave on his sabatical early. A win is a win, but a win against the 49ers with a new coach doesn't turn your season around.

29. San Francisco 49ers (2-6)
This team stinks. But I think Mike Singletary could be a good coach. At least he is in Madden.

30. Kansas City Chiefs (1-6)
As predicted, no revenge of Herm Edwards this past weekend. This team is young, but Herm still is atrocious. If I was a Chief's fan, I would stand outside Arrowhead Stadium everyday protesting Herm Edwards as coach. They need to do something to shake this franchise up.

31. Cincinnati Bengals (0-8)
What a terrible franchise. The owner is cheap, and the front office continually brings in players that they found at the Cincinnati PD's criminal lineup. They want to fire Marvin Lewis (which actually makes sense) but will not because they don't want to continue to pay him.

32. Detroit Lions (0-7)
Hey, at least the Redwings are 7-1 so far.

Friday Pick'em

As another addition, Steve and I will be picking the Sunday games and competing against each other every week. Because of our new "blog renaissance," we got a late start and will be starting from week 7. So without further ado....

Atlanta @ Philadelphia
Steve: Philadelphia
- Matt Ryan hasn't played in place as hostile as Philly yet, or played against a defense like Philly's yet.
Nick: Philly
- I went with Philly also, but I'm going to have to disagree with his statement about Matt Ryan. Kid's the real deal. If he can stay off his back, Atlanta can take this one.

Arizona @ Carolina
Steve: Arizona
- Big test for both teams. Both are fighting for that 3/4 best team in NFC slot.
Nick: Carolina
- This was a tough one, but the Panthers defense is very underrated and last week held a surging Drew Brees to only 7 points.

Buffalo @ Miami
Steve: Buffalo
- Boring.
Nick: Buffalo
- This team is the real deal.

Kansas City @ NY Jets
Steve: NYJ
- The revenge of Herm Edwards? No.
Nick: Jets
- This will be the Thomas Jones show.

Oakland @ Baltimore
Steve: Baltimore
- Nothing special
Nick: Oakland
- If a Fargas, McFadden combo can keep the Ravens O off the field, a sneakily good Oakland D can carry them past the mediocre Ravens

St. Louis @ New England
Steve: New England
- Do you really think the Rams can win three in a row?
Nick: New England
- The Brady-less Pats go to 6-2, right on pace for my 12-4 prediction.

San Diego @ New Orleans
Steve: San Diego
- Two talented teams underperforming. As Howard Finkel would say before a match: "There must be a winner!"
Nick: New Orleans
- Speaking of Howard Finkel, sweet story about how my dad ended up having dinner with the Nature Boy Ric Flair, who proceeded to call me during the whole thing and tell me to "Keep Stylin' and Profilin' baby, WOOOO!" Easily a top 5 moment my life.

Tampa Bay @ Dallas
Steve: Dallas
- I just cannot see Dallas losing three straight. Jerry Jones' botox will explode if that happens.
Nick: Tampa
- Going out on a limb here, but barring Tony Romo from pulling the rug out from under us and actually playing this week, whats the point in having 2 receivers who can stretch the field if your QB can't throw past 15 yards? Tampa will force Johnson to throw and come up with big plays when needed.

Washington @ Detroit
Steve: Washington
- Expect me to pick against Detroit every week. They are terrible.
Nick: Washington
- What he said ^.

Cleveland @ Jacksonville
Steve: Jacksonville
- Jacksonville has to start picking up some Ws.
Nick: Jacksonville
- Expect a big game from the 2 headed RB monster of Taylor and MJD.

Cincinnati @ Houston
Steve: Cincinnati
- Cincinnati is a bad team, but not bad enough to lose every game this year. They have to beat someone.
Nick: Houston
- Thing is, Cinci IS this bad. If I were a bettin' man, I'd take the Texans to cover the 9 points.

NY Giants @ Pittsburgh
Steve: Pittsburgh
- I cannot wait to see a gloomy Eli Manning when Troy Polamalu is flying in his face.
Nick: Giants
- I'm not buying this Pitt team one bit. It's easy to win when you beat up on crappy teams.

Seattle @ San Francisco
Steve: San Fran.
- Might be the worst game of the week. Congratulations!
Nick: SF
- I think I puked reading that matchup...wait...Yup def did.

Indianapolis @ Tennessee
Steve: Tennessee
- Indy's run defense is atrocious. Chris Johnson and LenDale White are going to have huge days.
Nick: Tennessee
- !Peyton Manning Face Alert!!Peyton Manning Face Alert!

W-Whats yo Fan-Fan-ta-tasyyyyyy...

Yes, thats's right. We're back at it. 3 years is a long time to be out of it, but do not fear our loyal readers (I think I've counted, like, -3 loyal readers). Like Steve said, we're going to try to do some new stuff on here, as well as rant and bitch and moan. Steve's power rankings was one new feature, and this, Friday Fantasy Preview, is the next. I'm going (see: try) to outline every game and point out the fantasy significance, injuries, sit/starts, etc. I'm also going to take a look at the matchup and pick against the spread. Ya, it's a lot, but hey, for you negative 3 people out there who loyally read us, it's the least I can do.

So in the words of big fat Glen Ordway, "Let's stoke it up."

1:00pm Games

Tampa Bay (5-2) @ Dallas (4-3)
Ok, this Romo thing just keeps getting weirder and weirder every day. For now, he's listed as Out for this week. So easy sit, that being said, with Brad Johnson behind center, look for Marion Barber to carry most of the load this week and keep the Dallas offense on the field. He's probably the number 2 ranked RB this week behind Portis. you're going to have to downgrade the Dallas receivers this week slightly, but if you have TO, he's still an obvious start. Jason Witten could be a prime target for Johnson, especially since Johnson cant throw the deep ball, so he would be a solid start at TE this week. On the flip side of the ball, look for the Tampa defense to score a lot of points this week, seeing how they can focus on a single dimension of the Dallas offense. A lot of fantasy experts say that defenses can almost be switched out on a weekly basis, like kickers, but in my experience, a good defense can win you a season, and a bad one can totally ruin one.

The Tampa offense is what you would expect on a weekly basis from them, with a slight upgrade for Jeff Garcia going up against a banged up Dallas secondary. If you are looking for a solid spot start QB, Garcia may be a good pickup this week. The running backs, Ernest Graham and Warrick Dunn will probably split carries again this week. Owners of Ernest Graham have been KILLED this season with Dunn getting a decent amount of carries. Graham will still get the goalline carries, but his production will definitely be cut short by the vet, Dunn. That being said, if you are looking for a solid flex spot running back in a deep league, Dunn may be a good bet.

Washington (5-2) @ Detroit (0-6)
The Redskins? Vying for the top spot in the NFC East? Over the Cowboys? If I said this in August, people would have called me an idiot, but I would have never said that anyways, so that last sentence was pretty much completely pointless. Annnyways, the top producing fantasy RB this year has been Clinton Portis, and this week, no different. look for Portis to run ALL OVER the putrid Lions. Also, Jason Campbell could have a big day as the Lion's D is the lowest ranked defense in fantasy football right now. Santana Moss and Chris "I Blog Naked" Cooley are good starts also.

On the flip side, if you have to start ANY Lions this week, just pray. Start praying now in fact.

Buffalo (5-1) @ Miami (2-4)
The surprise hit of the year, Buffalo, is looking pretty good in this match up against the perennial cellar-dweller of the AFC East. That being said, the Miami run defense is a lot better than people are giving them credit for. I don't think Marshawn Lynch is going to blow up this week, but if you have him, you're probably starting him. Trent Edwards, however, for people looking to pick up a QB during the bye, he's another solid option. Buffalo's D could have a big game against Noodle Arm Pennington, but Ronnie Brown may cause problems for them. Brown is probably the only Miami player im starting.

St. Louis (2-4) @ New England (4-2)
The only guys in this game I would start are Stephen Jackson, who could have a HUGE day against a slow Patriot LB core, Matt Cassell, in a deep league, and "Oh, he still plays football?" Randy Moss. It's amazing what a good QB can do to a receiver. With Brady in, Moss is the overwhelming number one wideout in fantasy. With Cassell, he barely breaks the top 10. It's really incredible. I don't liek either defense here, St. Louis, well because they're St. Louis, and New England because im terrified of what Jackson may do to them.

San Diego (3-4) @* New Orleans (3-4) *Game is being played in London, England.
Big game for both of these teams. Problem is, we will probably see a low scoring game here. The weather has been pretty bad the past few days over there, and if you can remember, last year's game between the Giants and Dolphins was a slopfest. For the Saints, Reggie Bush is out for a few weeks, so your best bet here is either Pierre Thomas or Deuce McAllister. Deuce will probably get the majority of the goal line carries and would be the safer bet, in my opinion. Marques Colston is back for the 2nd week, but his performance may depend on how they are able to splint his finger up. Last week he struggled to get going and didn't have a catch. i don't liek Jeremy Shockey here either, he didnt produce last week, and this week should be no different. Both QBs, Brees and Rivers, should have decent days, and are everyday starts if you have them.

On the Charger's side, the big news this season has been LT. His problem this year has been turf toe. Now, I've never had it, but I've heard it can be one of the most painful injuries a player could ever get, and you are at the will of the injury. That being said, its also one of the easiest to cure with rest, so LT should not be the LT of old until after their bye next week. That being said, you still have to start him, jsut because he is LT and could surprise you at any moment. He hasnt been terrible, but has had some games where he struggled. Darren Sproles is probably a good flex play this week if you have him, but thats about it. The San Diego receivers have struggled this seasaon, and the one you want, if any is Vincent Jackson. Lastly, if you have either of these defenses, check the weather report before the game. if it looks liek it could get sloppy, start them. Fumbles could be a common occurance in London on Sunday.

KC (1-5) @ New York Jets (3-3)
This game could get ugly. There isn't really any players for KC you want to start, seeing how they are gdoing the QB dance and Larry Johnson is suspended this week for being a retard and spitting on a chick in a club (really? c'mon, really LJ?). That being said, you saw what FatBoy LenDale White did to the KC D last week in OUTRUNNING EVERY SINGLE PLAYE RON THE FIELD FOR AN 80 YARD TD! Dude, I want to challenge LenDale to a race. I'll probably lose, but it would be close. Actually, who am I kidding, I'm lazy and out of shape. Forget I said that. Anywho, the point I'm trying to make is if you have Thomas Jones, start him. Know what? Any RB playing the chiefs from now on, start them. This should be a new rule in fantasy, kind of like "Can't Cut". It would be called "If you sit him, you're a retard." Other starts you want, mostly on the Jets side, Favre, Cotchery, Coles, and the Jets D. The ONLY KC player to start is Tony Gonzales.

Hot-lanta (4-2) @ Philly (3-3)
How about Matt Ryan? The kid is legit. I'm fully convinced. Not only is he a good QB, he's been a solid fantasy QB this season, with really only one bad start at Tampa. The past 2 weeks he has 3 TDs and averaged almost 250 yards per game against a good Green Bay defense and an admittedly banged up Bears defense. Coming off a bye, I can see this game being a score-fest, with Ryan and McNabb gunning and scoring big time. I don't like Michael Turner this week against a very solid Philly defense, but Roddy White has caught a TD in each of the last 2 games for Atlanta, and could be a good play this week.
On the Philadelphia side of the ball, like I said, McNabb is poised to have a great game this week. Andy Reid's throw first, ask questions later, offense can move the ball well up and down the field and McNabb is the general. Brian Westbrook appears as though he will start and is always a top echelon running back. Kevin Curtis is back for the Iggles, but look for DeSean Jackson to keep getting the ball and stretching the field for the Eagles.

Arizona (4-2) @ Carolina (5-2)
This may be the best matchup of the day. Arizona's gunslinging, christian animating, "I'll show you how its done, Leinhart" QB Kurt Warner has been outstanding for the Cardinals this season. Although it looks as though his numbers took a hit when Anquan Boldin was out, he may be back this weekend and should be a prime target for Warner deep. The Carolina defense hasn't been to stout this season, only letting up fewer than 15 points to 3 teams, so look for Arizona to stretch the field and score. Often. Also, Edgerrin James and Tim Hightower have been splitting time at RB so both maybe be good flex spot/low #2 RBs if you have them.
Jake Delhomme has been solid for the cats, throwing for more than 200 yards 4 times this season and more than 190 2 other times. If you have him, start him. Arizona has given up double digit points to every opponent they have faced. Steve Smith is also a good start here. Jonathan Stewart could see some fantasy points here with their goal line carries but there isn't a Carolina RB I can start and be confident.

Oakland (2-4) @ Baltimore (3-3)
Whoever gets stuck watching this game, boy do I feel sorry for you. Not a ot to talk abou there. Justin Fargas is still going to get the majority of the carries while Run-DMC Darren McFadden watches from the sidelines. JaMarcus Russell is a definite sit this week against the tough Ravens defense. That being said, the Ravens defense could be a top producer against the struggling Raiders.

4:05 and later
Cincinnati (0-7) @ Houston (2-4)
The first late afternoon game this week and oh what a glorious one it will be. Only playing against this Cinci team, would the Texans ever be 9 point favorites against anyone. I like a lot of the Texans this week. Matt Schaubb could have a great game, Andre Johnson is poised for a gigantic game here, Steve Slaton could run all over this defense, and even old man Ahman Green, who looked as healthy as hes been all year last week, could make some noise. The only guys on the Bengals I'm even thinking of starting are Chad Ocho Cinco, and TJ Houshmanzadeh, and even then, im only confident in TJ.

Cleveland (2-4) @ Jacksonville (3-3)
Look for King Dropsies, Braylon Edwards, to have a big game here against a struggling Jaguars D. Derek Anderson may be a nice spot start for those with QBs on bye also. Other than that for the dawgs, im not starting anybody else. For Jacksonville, this is an interesting matchup. Garrard has looked decent this season, even with nobody to throw to, but the two headed beast of Fred Taylor and MJD are going to carry this offense if it is going anywhere. Look for the Jags to try to control the game with the run. The problem here is that neither of these 2 exclusively get goal line carries, so its always a toss up. I'm going to lean towards MJD, jsut because of his explosiveness and ability to make the big play, but don't count out Fred Taylor here. Both can do significant damage. Also, for those in need of a tight end, Kellen Winslow's swollen nutsack may be a good play...badum chhh. Nothing? Ok moving on.....

New York Giants (5-1) @ Pittsburgh (5-1)
In what could be the game of the week, look for a low scoring game with both defenses playing a huge role. Eli manning has esablished himself as the best fantasy Manning this season with 8 tds passing and one rushing. It's pretty close, but when all is said and done, Eli will have more total fantasy points then older prother Peyton. Brandon Jacobs looks to continue a solid season as a high number 2 back and Plaxico is back from his suspension. Eli will look to Plaxico and try to get him back on track, so be sure to start him this week. For the Steelers, Roethlisberger is a definite start, with Hines Ward, and Santonio Holmes both looking to have big games. Willie Parker should be back for the Steelers, but don't e surprised if they ease him back in and Mewelde Moore steals some of the action. On the flip side, the Pittsburgh D will get pressure on Eli all day and could have a big day if the secondary can step up.

Seattle (1-5) @ San Francisco (2-5)
Egughhgh. Ew. Disgusting. Gross. Listen, the only guy you can be confident about starting in this game is Frank Gore. The human crappy chain restaurant (J.T. O'Sullivan) is a last resort spot start if you are absolutely desparate. Which reminds me..."Hey Farva, whats the name of that place with the Mozzarella Sticks and all the goofy shit on the walls?" "You mean Shenanigans? You guys are talkin about Shenanigans, right?" When I think of JT O'Sullivan's I think of that place with the Mozzarella Sticks and the goofy shit on the walls, don't you? I can't be the only one

Needless to say, I'm not comfortable starting ANY Seahawks this week, or for the rest of the season for that matter.

Monday Night Football
Indy (3-3) @ Tennessee (6-0)
Whatever you do, if you have the Tennessee defense and havent been starting them every week, or for some reason they arent owned in your league? God dammit, you oughta get smacked. I also like both Tennessee RBs this week against a terrible Indy run defense. Peyton will do ok this week, nothing special, and if i can help it, I'm not starting any Indy WR. Dallas Clark may get some targets and Dominic Rhodes could be decent. I see this one as all Tennessee all the time, though.


So there it is. Thats my strategy going into this weeks fantasy match ups. If you want, don't be shy about posting your fantasy questions in the comments section. I'll help as best as I can. Good luck this weekend!

-N-

Guess Who's Back? Back Again!/ NFL Power Poll

After taking a three-plus year sabatical, I am back blogging here on The Big Red Citgo Sign. Hopefully, this time around there will be much more content, weekly updates, and general comedy in the wide world of sports. The goal, for now, is to have at least a weekly NFL Power Poll and a weekly fantasy football column, along with other occassional posts, rants, columns, and opinions. So, without further ado, the first NFL Power Poll!

1. New York Giants (5-1)
I am not completely sold on this team yet. It may be sour grapes from last season, it may be that I think Eli Manning is the luckiest quarterback in the league, or it may be that they have played some pretty terrible teams, including losing to Cleveland. The only decent team that have beaten is Washington in week 1. But, with all the hiccups by good teams this year, the champs are still at the top until there is a definitive clear-cut top team. They play at Pittsburgh this week. This will be the toughest challenge they will have faced so far this season.

2. Tennessee Titans (6-0)
This team seems to be following the old formula of the 2000 Baltimore Ravens. Great defense and a good ground game. The Titans are undefeated because of their Top 3 defense and because of their Top 5 rushing game. They have beaten some decent opponents (Baltimore, Minnesota, Jacksonville), but they still have Kerry Collins as the starting quarterback and a receiving corp led by Bo Scaife. A Monday Night Football win against Indianapolis this week will put Tennessee in cruise control for the rest of the season.

3. Tampa Bay Bucs (5-2)
Talk about a team flying under the radar this season. The Bucs boast a Top 10 defense, but it has been the play of the offense that has allowed Tampa to succeed this season. Who would have thought that an offense led by Brian Griese and a feuding Jeff Garcia-Jon Gruden would be a Top 10 offense, including the number 8 ranked passing offense in the league? They do not really have any bad losses this season (at New Orleans, at Denver) and have good wins including an overtime win at Chicago and home wins against Green Bay and Carolina. A win this Sunday against Dallas could finally bring some recognition to Tampa Bay.

4. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-1)
This was a team that I thought, preseason, would make it to the AFC Championship game. So far, that prediction is looking pretty good. The staple of Pittsburgh football has always been bone-crushing defense and smashmouth running game. Well, Pittsburgh still boasts the best defense in the league. However, the backfield has had some serious issues, losing Willie Parker for an extended period of time, and his backup, rookie Rashard Mendenhall being put on Injured Reserve for the rest of the season. Parker should be returning soon, which will provide some relief for Ben Roethlisberger, who has been one of the most sacked quarterbacks in the league. The only blemish on their record is a loss to cross-state rival Philadelphia. This weeks home game against the defending Super Bowl Champion New York Giants will provide the Steelers toughest test to date.

5. Buffalo Bills (5-1)
I do not think many would have predicted that the Bills would be top team in the AFC East before the season started. A good offense, and a better defense has helped the Bills mop up some of the dregs they have played (i.e. St. Louis, Oakland, Seattle). While they are 5-1, the lone defeat being against the Arizona Cardinals, the records of teams the Bills have beaten are a combined 11-20. Marshawn Lynch has not lived up to expectations this season, but Trent Edwards has played better than anyone could have imagined. Lee Evans is emerging as a top WR in the league.

6. Washington Redskins (5-2)
A bit overrated, but they still have five wins. After a week 1 loss to the Giants, the Redskins went on a roll winning the next four games including road wins over rivals Dallas and Philadelphia. However, they did lay an egg in a home loss to the lowly Rams in week 6. Santana Moss is having a terrific season, and Jason Campbell is finally developing into a good quarterback. You cannot mention this Redskins team though without talking about Clinton Portis. He has been otherworldly so far this season. They somehow have a better defense than offense, which I find hard to believe. But the numbers do not lie, and the defense is ranked number 6. I think a great passing offense can expose Shawn Springs and Fred Smoot. A game against Detroit this week will surely pad the offensive stats.

7. Arizona Cardinals (4-2)
Even though Matt Leinart has been a huge bust (think Ryan Leaf, only without being crazy and being more of a Hollywood star than football star), Arizona has had one of the best offenses in the league. Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald are the best WR duo in the league, hands down. Kurt Warner has put up ridiculous numbers this year, including 472 yards in a week 4 loss to the Jets. This team plays in the worst division in football (NFC West) and has essentially clinched a playoff spot already. St. Louis, San Francisco, and Seattle have a combined 5 wins, Arizona has 4. I do not think they will pose any serious threat to the Cardinals making the postseason for the first time in a long time.

8. Dallas Cowboys (4-3)
O-VER RA-TED cha cha chacha cha. This team was picked by all football pundits to be a lock for the Super Bowl. They started out 3-0, but then lost 3 of four, including a loss to the Rams. What is the problem here? A mingling owner in Jerry Jones? An bumbling happy-go-lucky coach who makes Charlie Manuel look like a Rhodes Scholar in Wade Phillips? A certified lunatic in Terrel Owens? A quarterback who people think is the next Brett Favre, except he only has Favre's negative attributes (ability to turn the ball over at the worst time, all the time) in Tony Romo? I do not know the answer, but America's team is in the toilet right now and is going to struggle to make the playoffs.

9. Carolina Panthers (5-2)
Jake Delhomme still stinks, but they have played great defense all year long, gaining the number 4 defensive ranking. I never understand why John Fox was considered one of the best coaches in the league. After making the Super Bowl five years ago, this franchise has been mediocre at best. Overall, they have beaten some decent opponents and still have some cupcakes left on the schedule. As long as Delhomme doesn't kill them, they should be a playoff team.

10. Chicago Bears (4-3)
Who would of thought that Kyle Orton would provide the Bears with so much firepower that the Bears offense would outproduce the Bears defense? Orton has been great this year, passing for over 280 yards in three straight games including 334 in week 5. Imagine if Lovey had played Orton instead of Rex (cringe) Grossman two seasons ago. The Bears could have beaten the Colts and it would not have started a streak where Mannings would win back-to-back Super Bowls. I think I'll go throw up now.

11. Philadelphia Eagles (3-3)
They are last in the NFC East, but I still think they are the best team in the division. They lost Brian Westbrook, their best player, for a few weeks. He should be back and this team will be back to putting up a ton of points. McNabb is having a renaissance season. This team still makes the playoffs.

12. New England Patriots (4-2)
If this team had a theme song, it would be Helter Skelter. Just an absolute rollarcoaster ride with this team. Cassel should have been cut in the preseason, managed to hang around, and lucked into being an NFL starting QB in week 1. Managing a game will not be enough for Cassel to lead the Patriots back to the postseason. He will have to make plays. The secondary is very weak and can be overmatched easily. The defense, as a whole, gives up a lot of big plays that end up killing them. If I had to compare two players on the defense to a famous musical couple, it would be Jerrod Mayo as Ike Turner, laying big hits, and Deltha O'Neil as Tina Turner, getting beat all day long.

13. Atlanta Falcons (4-2)
Surprise of the season! A pretty decent offense, led by a great running game. Matt Ryan looks like the real deal. He is confident and poised and does not seem to hurt the team, which is something to be said for a rookie quarterback starting in his first season. Ryan will make ATL forget about the Crime Dawg--Michael Vick.

14. Minnesota Vikings (3-4)
A very disappointing season. Many thought the Vikings would be tops in the NFC North. But who were we all kidding? They went into the season with Tavaris Jackson as their quarterback! As a Patriots fan, this is the only team that I am not jealous of their quarterback situation.

15. Green Bay Packers (4-3)
Aaron Rodgers started out hot, but has cooled off a bit. Overall he has done a very good job. After watching Favre and the Jets, I think most Packers fans would agree that it was the right move to give Rodgers the job.

16. Baltimore Ravens (3-3)
Another great defense, led by Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs. This team, especially the defense, reminds me of a bunch of criminals. I don't know why, but this team has a bad attitude (in a good way, if that makes sense). Would you really want to be in a dark alley with any of these guys? I wouldn't. News of a possible bounty by the Ravens on Steelers players could give them some trouble with General Goodell. Flacco looks pretty decent for a rookie QB.

17. New York Jets (3-3)
I really do hate this team. They were terrible last year. Off season improvements? Go out and overpay for a 2001 Pro Bowl roster. Eric Mangini was labelled "Mangenius" after season one. Now he looks like a terrible coach, nevermind a fat, dirty, backstabbing, rat. After another mediocre season this year and next year, he will be fired.

18. New Orleans Saints (3-4)
This team has underperformed, although Reggie Bush has had a much, much better season this year. After Katrina, Sean Payton and the Saints became America's feel good story. If this team cannot rebound from a slow start (Colston and Shockey should be back eventually), Coach Payton has to be blamed. This team has too much talent to not be in the playoffs.

19. Houston Texans (2-4)
When will this team finally get over the hump? Your guess is as good as mine. Matt Schaub is not the answer at QB. Steve Slaton has been waaaay better than anticipated. Andre Johnson is the best unknown receiver in the league. Mario Williams was the right pick.

20. Denver Broncos (4-3)
Probably the best team in the AFC West. Jay Cutler has a big arm and the offense can put points up with the best of them. However, the defense is terrible and can be scored on at will. Mike Shanahan looks skeezy. I don't like him or the Broncos.

21. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-3)
Should be much better. I don't understand why they haven't won more games. They have played one of the tougher schedules to date. A bunch of creampuffs coming up should help improve their record.

22. Indianapolis Colts (3-3)
This team looks bad. They always had a bad defense, but I would not have imagined in my wildest dreams the offense producing so little. Peyton Manning must be recovering from offseason surgery still. Once he is right again, this team will be right again. Injuries to the backfield have hurt too. No Joseph Addai, no Mike Hart, no running game.

23. Miami Dolphins (2-4)
Better than anticipated, but still not good. A college offense might work for a few plays in the NFL, but it will not work over the long haul. There is a reason why some offenses are exclusive to college, and now we are seeing why. I wish Chad Pennington was wearing a Patriots jersey though.

24. San Diego Chargers (3-4)
This crybaby team looks bad. They have had some tough losses (DENVER!) but this might be the most talented offense in the AFC and they are led by an "offensive mastermind" in Norv Turner, yet they are under .500 Norv is a dreadful coach, but a great coordinator, who somehow manages to talk owners into giving him head coaching jobs. LT is a baby. Toughen up. Turf toe? Really? Walter Payton is turning in his grave.

25. Cleveland Browns (2-4)
Derek Anderson was a one-hit wonder. Still waiting for the golden boy, Brady Quinn, to start some games for the Browns. Romeo Crennel might have one more season left before he is fired.

26. Oakland Raiders (2-4)
The best thing for this franchise and it's dedicated fans would be no more Al Davis.

27. St. Louis Rams (2-4)
Which team is this? The one that lost the first four? Or the one that won the last two? Steven Jackson is starting to look like Steven Jackson. Still a bad team, but how bad are they?

28. San Francisco 49ers (2-5)
Missing on Alex Smith with the first pick really set this franchise back, nevermind the fact that the pick cost Mike Nolan his job. Patrick Willis is a beast.

29. Seattle Seahawks (1-5)
Mike Holmgren was supposed to take a one year sabatical following this season. I think that sabatical started four months early. This team is terrible.

30. Kansas City Chiefs (1-5)
Honestly, how does Herm Edwards still have a job? He may be a nice guy, but he might be the worse coach in the league.

31. Cincinnati Bengals (0-7)
Sorry Herm! I made a mistake. Marvin Lewis is the worst coach in the league that still has a job. In all seriousness, this team stinks, but they do seem to be playing hard for Lewis. I guess that is worth something.

32. Detroit Lions (0-6)
Sad, sad franchise. The best thing that has happened to this team in the past ten years was the resignation of Matt Millen. Of the four receivers he drafted in the first round, one is still with the team. ONE. Terrible.