Seattle 41, New Orleans 36.
We just witnessed one of the great upsets in NFL playoff history, but that fact has been forgotten. Why? Everyone is still talking about Marshawn Lynch's now legendary 67-yard TD run that effectively won the game for the Hawks. In fact, the run was so epic that it made the Earth shake. Literally. And if you did not jump up and down in euphoria after that stiff arm of Tracy Porter, you are NOT, repeat, NOT a true football fan. That is included with eight, EIGHT broken tackles. It will be on highlight reels for years to come.
NY Jets 17, Indianapolis 16.
No surprise here, honestly. The Colts simply had to deal with too many injuries this year, and the Jets are simply the better team. Mark Sanchez grew up as an NFL quarterback in this game, although he did recieve a little help on the Jets' final drive from the Colts' Jim Caldwell, who will be on the hot seat next season. One immortal quarterback down for Rex Ryan, another one on deck next week.
Baltimore 30, Kansas City 7.
Again, no real surprise in terms of the victor here, but it's surprising how Kansas City unraveled so quickly. Rumors indicate that Head Coach Todd Haley stripped now-former offensive coordinator Charlie Weis of his play-calling duties. The truth is, the entire team, players and coaches, forgot how to play the game Sunday. That all being said, this Chiefs team took a huge step forward this season, and is far ahead of schedule in terms of reaching their ultimate goal: a Patriots-esque dynasty. As for the Ravens, this is their billionth postseason road win in the last couple of years, and it especially felt good for them to do it for the troubled Ed Reed.
Green Bay 21, Philadelphia 16.
It's easy to blame David Akers for this loss, missing two makable field goals that turned out to be the difference in the score. But in all honesty, the entire Eagles team fell apart after the Miracle in the New Meadowlands, losing their last three games. Michael Vick was no longer his electric self, the running game was non-existent, and the defense couldn't make the big stop when necessary. Now, my original NFC favorite is out, and a new one is in: the Green Bay Packers. This team is deep enough and talented enough despite a laundry list of injuries to make it to Dallas. If they beat Atlanta next week, bet on them heading there.
Divisional Round Picks (2-2 last week; won with NYJ and BAL, lost with NO and PHI; 23-25 overall)
Pittsburgh 20, Baltimore 16. (PIT -3)
The best rivalry in the NFL, hands down. No arguments. When these two get together, you will see the most physical, bruising football possible, and this is the way the game is meant to be played. Every single game between these two is a thriller, and this one should be no exception. Both meetings in the regular season were decided by three points, both road wins. Does this bode well for the Ravens? Probably. But if Ed Reed's family problems prevent him from playing, a bigger edge goes to the rested, presumably healthy Steelers. For now, based on the big play abilities of Big Ben and Troy Polamalu, Pittsburgh gets a slight edge.
Green Bay 27, Atlanta 21. (GB +2)
As stated before, the Packers are my new NFC favorite, and they will show why against Atlanta. If the physical defense of Green Bay can stop Atlanta's running game and put the game in Matty Ice's hands, they have an excellent chance of winning. The key here will be if Ryan can make one big play through the air to either Roddy White or Tony Gonzalez. If so, it will give the Atlanta offense confidence it can compete with Aaron Rodgers in a potential shootout. Atlanta's time will come in the Mike Smith-Matt Ryan era, but right now the Pack seem to be on a magic carpet ride.
Chicago 23, Seattle 17. (SEA +10)
A 7-9 team can't possibly make a conference championship game, can it? Well, if you watched the Seahawks last week, they looked like a completely different team than the one that played in the regular season, beating the defending champs. If they can beat New Orleans, they should have the confidence to beat anybody. But this one will not be easy. If a transformed Jay Cutler can shred apart the Seattle defense early, which may be simple for him, is it fair to expect Matt Hasselbeck to duplicate by far the best performance of his career again in this one? This one will be closer than you think, but I believe Seattle's magic runs out at Soldier Field, setting up the oldest rivarly in the NFL for the NFC title game.
New England 31, NY Jets 18. (NE -8 1/2)
Let Rex Ryan do all the smack talking he wants. His Jets are still not any better than the team he brought to Foxboro a few Monday nights ago, only to promptly get embarrassed 45-3. That won't happen again this time, but the Jets simply don't have the firepower to compete with a Tom Brady-led offense. Effectively, the Jets will have to play a game similar to what Seattle played against New Orleans last weekend. If that happens, the Jets can pull off their greatest upset since Super Bowl III. But come on, it's almost impossible to bet against Brady and Belichick in January.
Showing posts with label Colts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Colts. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
NFL Regular Season Awards Plus First Round Predictions
Hmmm, let's see. Who remembers Week 1 of the 2010 NFL Season as if it were yesterday! Not just me, that's for sure. What exactly do we remember? Kevin Kolb was the Eagles' starting quarterback. Chad Henne was projected to be the next breakout star. The Raiders and Chiefs were expected to finish in the basement of the AFC West. The Cowboys and Vikings were projected to play in the NFC title game. Donovan McNabb was supposed to lead the Redskins back to the playoffs. Peyton Hillis and Arian Foster were probably not selected in any fantasy draft. The Bucs were expected to have the worst record in the NFL. The Jets did not have any scandals involving DUIs, Harrassment suits, and especially feet.
So much changes in this damn league. And that's why we all adore it. Here are the Rant's 2010 NFL Regular Season awards:
MVP: Tom Brady, QB, New England.
Sorry, Michael Vick supporters. Brady has been consistent all year long and has not thrown an interception since dinosaurs roamed the Earth. This even after the trade of his biggest target. Brady is the heart and soul of the Pats, and he arguably had his best season in 2010.
(Honorable mention: Vick, Troy Polamalu)
Offensive Player of the Year: Brady
(Honorable mention: Vick, Foster)
Defensive Player of the Year: Clay Matthews, LB, Packers.
In a season in which Green Bay was ravaged by injuries on both sides of the ball, Matthews remained the most consistent on a very good defense. He has been the backbone of the Pack's D and has developed into one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL.
(Honorable mention: Polamalu)
Coach of the Year: Todd Haley, Chiefs.
Kansas City is far, far ahead of schedule in its rebuilding process. Haley led the Chiefs to their first division title since 2003.
(Honorable mention: Raheem Morris, Bucs and Mike McCarthy, Packers)
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Sam Bradford, QB, Rams
The next Peyton Manning? He put up numbers comparable to Manning's in his rookie season, and his Rams came one win away from their first playoff apperance since 2004. Not bad for a team that went 1-15 last year.
(Honorable mention: Maurkice Pouncey, C, Steelers)
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Ndomakong Suh, DE, Lions
Detroit finally has a true franchise cornerstone to build around the way Barry Sanders was in the 90s. And he's just getting started.
(Honorable mention: Devin McCourty, S, Patriots)
Biggest Surprise, player: Arian Foster, RB, Texans.
The first undrafted player in NFL history to win the rushing title. 'Nuff said.
(Honorable mention: Vick, Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders)
Biggest Surprise, team: Kansas City Chiefs.
Best running game in the NFL, a maturing quarterback, and an outstanding defense. They will be a force for the next few years.
(Honorable mention: Raiders, Bucs)
Biggest Disappointment, player: Carson Palmer, QB, Bengals.
If you need any more proof that Palmer has fallen from elite status to bum in a little over a year, just look at the last offensive play vs. Baltimore last Sunday. TWO, yes, TWO recievers were wide open in the end zone and he didn't see either.
(Dishonorable mention: McNabb, Chad Henne, QB, Dolphins)
Biggest Disappointment, team: Dallas Cowboys.
It was destiny. They were supposed to play in a Super Bowl in their own stadium built for billions by their megalomanical owner. Everything fell apart. The QB got hurt, and the coach was fired mid-season. At least they made strides under Jason Garrett.
(Dishonorable mention: Minnesota Vikings, Houston Texans)
Biggest Surprise, coach: Raheem Morris, Bucs.
One year ago, he was on the hot seat after an awful first season. This year, he led the youngest team in the NFL to 1o wins. Can it be duplicated next year?
(Honorable mention: Tom Cable, Raiders and Lovie Smith, Bears)
Biggest Disappointment, coach: Mike Singletary, 49ers.
He loudly declared he wanted winners two years ago. Too bad his players did not take on the same attitude. Not to mention the Niners were heavily favored to win the awful NFC West. And when the champion of that division is 7-9, you really screwed up.
(Dishonorable mention: Wade Phillips, Cowboys and Josh McDaniels, Broncos)
Breakout star of 2011 (assuming, of course, there is no lockout): Josh Freeman, QB, Bucs.
He grew up as an NFL quarterback almost overnight this season. As long as he doesn't go down the Chad Henne route, the Bucs are in good hands for the next decade.
(Honorable mention: Tim Tebow, QB, Broncos and Andrew Luck, QB, Panthers?)
Sleeper team of 2011: Detroit Lions.
If Matt Stafford can stay healthy, and the defense adds enough complimentary parts around Ndomakong Suh, this team just may make the playoffs in 2011.
(Honorable mention: Carolina Panthers, Houston Texans)
Team that will fall the farthest in 2011: Miami Dolphins.
Chad Henne may not be the real deal. The players have revolted against Tony Sparano. Brandon Marshall's talents are being wasted. Unless there is a complete attitude adjustment, I don't see any improvements by this unit.
(Dishonorable mention: Tampa Bay Bucs, Chicago Bears)
Player that will fall the farthest in 2011: Chad Ochocinco, WR, Bengals?
Maybe the player formerly known as Chad Johnson should stick to his TV work, because I don't see him being an elite reciever anymore.
(Henne, Vince Young, QB, Titans)
Picks for the first round (2-2 last week, 21-23 overall)
New Orleans 35, Seattle 14. (NO -10).
The defending champs are hitting their stride at the right time, and as long as Drew Brees doesn't turn the ball over, New Orleans should have an easy time against the first 7-9 division winner in NFL history.
N.Y. Jets 20, Indianapolis 17. (OT)(NYJ +3).
I honestly think the Jets will get their revenge on Peyton and Co. Saturday night. The Colts are simply not the same team as last year. Two of Peyton's favorite targets, Austin Collie and Dallas Clark, are out for the season. Reggie Wayne is simply good now, not great. The Colts can't run the ball to save themselves. If Rex Ryan's brash talk is backed up by his faithful players, they should be able to squeak by Indy.
Baltimore 24, Kansas City 20. (BAL -2 1/2).
Where have we seen this Baltimore team before? They went into Foxboro last January and embarrased Brady, Belichick, and co. This year, they face an inexperienced, overachieving Chiefs team that contains many players with no postseason experience. Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Ray Rice and co. know how to win road playoff games. This will be no exception.
Philadelphia 23, Green Bay, 20. (PHI -2 1/2).
Honestly, this game is a toss-up. I won't be surpised if either team wins this one. The big difference between both teams since their Week 1 matchup is that Michael Vick will play the entire game, and the Packers will be without Ryan Grant and Jermichael Finley. For that, I give the Eagles a slight edge.
So much changes in this damn league. And that's why we all adore it. Here are the Rant's 2010 NFL Regular Season awards:
MVP: Tom Brady, QB, New England.
Sorry, Michael Vick supporters. Brady has been consistent all year long and has not thrown an interception since dinosaurs roamed the Earth. This even after the trade of his biggest target. Brady is the heart and soul of the Pats, and he arguably had his best season in 2010.
(Honorable mention: Vick, Troy Polamalu)
Offensive Player of the Year: Brady
(Honorable mention: Vick, Foster)
Defensive Player of the Year: Clay Matthews, LB, Packers.
In a season in which Green Bay was ravaged by injuries on both sides of the ball, Matthews remained the most consistent on a very good defense. He has been the backbone of the Pack's D and has developed into one of the most feared pass rushers in the NFL.
(Honorable mention: Polamalu)
Coach of the Year: Todd Haley, Chiefs.
Kansas City is far, far ahead of schedule in its rebuilding process. Haley led the Chiefs to their first division title since 2003.
(Honorable mention: Raheem Morris, Bucs and Mike McCarthy, Packers)
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Sam Bradford, QB, Rams
The next Peyton Manning? He put up numbers comparable to Manning's in his rookie season, and his Rams came one win away from their first playoff apperance since 2004. Not bad for a team that went 1-15 last year.
(Honorable mention: Maurkice Pouncey, C, Steelers)
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Ndomakong Suh, DE, Lions
Detroit finally has a true franchise cornerstone to build around the way Barry Sanders was in the 90s. And he's just getting started.
(Honorable mention: Devin McCourty, S, Patriots)
Biggest Surprise, player: Arian Foster, RB, Texans.
The first undrafted player in NFL history to win the rushing title. 'Nuff said.
(Honorable mention: Vick, Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders)
Biggest Surprise, team: Kansas City Chiefs.
Best running game in the NFL, a maturing quarterback, and an outstanding defense. They will be a force for the next few years.
(Honorable mention: Raiders, Bucs)
Biggest Disappointment, player: Carson Palmer, QB, Bengals.
If you need any more proof that Palmer has fallen from elite status to bum in a little over a year, just look at the last offensive play vs. Baltimore last Sunday. TWO, yes, TWO recievers were wide open in the end zone and he didn't see either.
(Dishonorable mention: McNabb, Chad Henne, QB, Dolphins)
Biggest Disappointment, team: Dallas Cowboys.
It was destiny. They were supposed to play in a Super Bowl in their own stadium built for billions by their megalomanical owner. Everything fell apart. The QB got hurt, and the coach was fired mid-season. At least they made strides under Jason Garrett.
(Dishonorable mention: Minnesota Vikings, Houston Texans)
Biggest Surprise, coach: Raheem Morris, Bucs.
One year ago, he was on the hot seat after an awful first season. This year, he led the youngest team in the NFL to 1o wins. Can it be duplicated next year?
(Honorable mention: Tom Cable, Raiders and Lovie Smith, Bears)
Biggest Disappointment, coach: Mike Singletary, 49ers.
He loudly declared he wanted winners two years ago. Too bad his players did not take on the same attitude. Not to mention the Niners were heavily favored to win the awful NFC West. And when the champion of that division is 7-9, you really screwed up.
(Dishonorable mention: Wade Phillips, Cowboys and Josh McDaniels, Broncos)
Breakout star of 2011 (assuming, of course, there is no lockout): Josh Freeman, QB, Bucs.
He grew up as an NFL quarterback almost overnight this season. As long as he doesn't go down the Chad Henne route, the Bucs are in good hands for the next decade.
(Honorable mention: Tim Tebow, QB, Broncos and Andrew Luck, QB, Panthers?)
Sleeper team of 2011: Detroit Lions.
If Matt Stafford can stay healthy, and the defense adds enough complimentary parts around Ndomakong Suh, this team just may make the playoffs in 2011.
(Honorable mention: Carolina Panthers, Houston Texans)
Team that will fall the farthest in 2011: Miami Dolphins.
Chad Henne may not be the real deal. The players have revolted against Tony Sparano. Brandon Marshall's talents are being wasted. Unless there is a complete attitude adjustment, I don't see any improvements by this unit.
(Dishonorable mention: Tampa Bay Bucs, Chicago Bears)
Player that will fall the farthest in 2011: Chad Ochocinco, WR, Bengals?
Maybe the player formerly known as Chad Johnson should stick to his TV work, because I don't see him being an elite reciever anymore.
(Henne, Vince Young, QB, Titans)
Picks for the first round (2-2 last week, 21-23 overall)
New Orleans 35, Seattle 14. (NO -10).
The defending champs are hitting their stride at the right time, and as long as Drew Brees doesn't turn the ball over, New Orleans should have an easy time against the first 7-9 division winner in NFL history.
N.Y. Jets 20, Indianapolis 17. (OT)(NYJ +3).
I honestly think the Jets will get their revenge on Peyton and Co. Saturday night. The Colts are simply not the same team as last year. Two of Peyton's favorite targets, Austin Collie and Dallas Clark, are out for the season. Reggie Wayne is simply good now, not great. The Colts can't run the ball to save themselves. If Rex Ryan's brash talk is backed up by his faithful players, they should be able to squeak by Indy.
Baltimore 24, Kansas City 20. (BAL -2 1/2).
Where have we seen this Baltimore team before? They went into Foxboro last January and embarrased Brady, Belichick, and co. This year, they face an inexperienced, overachieving Chiefs team that contains many players with no postseason experience. Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Ray Rice and co. know how to win road playoff games. This will be no exception.
Philadelphia 23, Green Bay, 20. (PHI -2 1/2).
Honestly, this game is a toss-up. I won't be surpised if either team wins this one. The big difference between both teams since their Week 1 matchup is that Michael Vick will play the entire game, and the Packers will be without Ryan Grant and Jermichael Finley. For that, I give the Eagles a slight edge.
Monday, November 8, 2010
NFL Midseason Report
I have been watching this sport for almost 20 years now, and I can honestly say this has been the most unpredictable NFL season in years. Basically this NFL season is like a blind date. It will either be incredibly bad or incredibly great. The girl could be pure gold or a total psycho. One week, a team could be showered with accolades and crowned the next Super Bowl champion. The next week it will be ridiculed left and right and calls from angry fans to sports radio stations calling for the coach's head fly left and right. But then again, who has a stable relationship anymore?
But if anything else, I've learned that the NFL season flys by like no other sport in the world. The baseball and hockey regular seasons are grueling, often boring marathons. The NFL season ends in the blink of an eye. We've already reached the halfway point of the season, and like a bad relationship, it's time to give praise but take a lot of shots at the same time. And for a diehard NFL fan like myself, I wouldn't have it any other way. Here's my awards, wrist slaps, and 2nd half predictions for this grueling relationship.
Biggest Surprise: AFC West
If you had told me that by Week 10 the CHIEFS and RAIDERS would reign supreme in the AFC West, Lamar Hunt would roll over in his grave and I'd advise you and Al Davis to seek some counseling. But it's true. Kansas City has emerged as a playoff contender due to outstanding running from Jamal Charles and Thomas Jones, and big plays from Matt Cassel. Not to mention their defense has staked its claim to being one of the best in the league this year. The Raiders, while half as talented, have recieved outstanding play from quarterback Jason Campbell, and the team seems to have shaken off the stench left behind by the JaMarcus Russell epic fail. Even Darrius Heyward-Bey (yeah, him) has stepped up. But the key behind the revival of the Silver and Black has been the play of the league's #2 rushing offense with a breakout year from Darren McFadden) and #3 pass defense, led by Nnamdi Asomugha. This all being said, expect a revival of the Chargers and eventual overtaking of both teams by the Bolts by the end of the season. But the revival of two old AFL rivals makes for a nice first-half story.
Biggest Disappointment: Dallas Cowboys
I was going to lump the Minnesota Vikings into this category as well, but after all the drama surrounding Mr. Favre and Mr. Moss and Mr. Childress, they saved their season with a dramatic comeback against Arizona last Sunday and set themselves up for a possible 2nd half surge. But wasn't this supposed to be the year Jerry Jones got a Super Bowl in his own back yard? Wasn't this supposed to be the year Tony Romo rose to the elite? Wasn't this supposed to be the year the Cowboys broke through with their sixth Super Bowl title, proving Wade Phillips could win? Guess what, Cowboy haters? CELEBRATE! The 'Boys are 1-7, Jones had to fire a head coach within the regular season for the first time after Sunday's 45-7 disgrace in Green Bay, Romo is possibly out for the season, and the team is not inspired to even leave the locker room on Sundays. You could point the finger at the coach, the owner, or the players, but the truth is you should point the finger at the business model of the Cowboys: make money, lots and lots of money, and pray the team on the field delivers a Super Bowl. Major changes are in store for this franchise.
Best Team
Last week it was the Patriots. The week before it was the Jets. The week before it was the Steelers. Week before the Ravens. Week beforrrreeee......
In other words, take your pick. There are no elite teams in the pack of simply good to very good teams in the league after four weeks. They are as follows: The Jets, Patriots, Ravens, Steelers, Giants, Eagles, Packers, Saints, and Falcons. That's a heckofalota teams right there. As per the theme of this season in my intro, you just don't know week after week.
Worst Team
Tie between the Bills and Cowboys. The Cowboys for the reasons explained above, and the Bills simply because they are 0-8. However, the Bills come to play week after week, and are no pushover. They will eventually get a win as long as Ryan Fitzpatrick plays out of his mind. The Cowboys simply don't compete. So if you put a gun to my head, I'd lean toward Dallas. God, it feels good to be a Cowboy hater these days.
Best Player
Once again, it is Mr. Manning from Indianapolis. His offensive weapons have been decimated by injuries. His favorite target, Dallas Clark, is out for the season, and arguably the poor man's Wes Welker, Austin Collie, is hurt once again. Other than Reggie Wayne, his options are the overrated Pierre Garcon, Blair White, and Jacob Tamme. Strikes a lot of fear in your heart, doesn't it? But of course, it is Peyton's place, and he is the glue, the heart, the soul, the foundation, and the infrastructure of the Colts. Without him, they are nothing. He is showing why once again.
Honorable mentions: Tom Brady, Clay Matthews, Eli Manning, Michael Vick, Matt Ryan, Chris Johnson, Arian Foster.
Worst Player
Randy Moss. He is already on his third team this season. The circumstances behind his departure from the Patriots were simply business. The circumstances behind his departure from the Vikings are simply despicable. Whatever the situations, Moss has simply quit on two different teams this year. If he is quitting on Tom Brady and Brett Favre, how in the world can Vince Young or Kerry Collings possibly make him happy?
Best Coach
Tom Coughlin, Giants. After a 1-2 start from the Giants, Coughlin survived calls from the media and fans for his head and enormous pressure from within to lead the G-Men to the top of the NFC and a 6-2 record. Coughlin gets beaten and tortured in the media day in and day out, and is roundly criticized by fans, but he continues to go about his business with class and dignity, and has not only saved his job, but put New York in position for a Super Bowl run. Honorable mention: Mike Smith, Falcons; Mike McCarthy, Packers; John Harbaugh, Ravens; Rex Ryan, Jets; Tom Cable, Raiders; Todd Haley, Chiefs.
Worst Coach
Now that Wade Phillips is out of the picture, the overwhelming choice is Brad Childress. Amid in-fighting with his recievers, conflicts with ownership, questionable play calling, and an overall mediocre record, Chilly is the next to go with one more bad loss.
Breakout Player
If you drafted Arian Foster of the Texans for your fantasy team, you look like an absolute genius. Foster has established himself as an elite running back in the NFL, leading the league in rushing (864 yards) and touchdowns (10), including 231 yards and 3 TD's on opening day. Honorable mentions: Darren McFadden, Peyton Hillis, Kenny Britt.
Top Storylines for the Second Half
1. Can the Vikings rally for a playoff spot? Yes, but if any only if: the ancient Favre can stay upright, Brad Childress can get out of his own way, and they can beat the Bears and Packers the next two weeks. The Randy Moss drama ended, and the Brett Favre sexting drama appears to be on the shelf for now. Is this Favre's last hurrah? Please. But if so, and we're not sure, he will want to go out with a bang. They will be dangerous in the second half.
2. Can the Chiefs or Raiders or both make the playoffs? I think the Raiders will fall just short, but I believe the Chiefs are talented enough and hungry enough to squeak in. I believe the Chargers will end up winning the AFC West despite another mediocre start, but in a wide-open AFC playoff picture, it's possible Kansas City can sneak in.
3. Can Donovan McNabb lead the Redskins to the playoffs? McNabb's benching by coach Mike Shanahan in Detroit created unnecessary controversy in the Nation's Capital. With the Giants pulling away and Eagles showing signs of a playoff team, the time is now for both to co-exist and guide their new team to the playoffs. It won't be easy, though.
4. Can the Houston Texans finally take that next step? It's still too difficult to tell. They have all the talent in the world on the offensive side of the football, but it's the defense that has prevented Houston from taking that next step. Betty White could throw for 500 yards against that secondary, and how much longer can Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson, and Arian Foster survive shootout after shootout? I still say they make it in.
5. Will the NFC West champion have a sub-.500 record? It would be sad yet fascinating at the same time. Any one of the four teams can still win this awful, awful division. Imagine, for instance, the 49ers fighting their way to a 7-9 record, finishing tied for first with Seattle. But by virtue of a tiebreaker, they miss out on the division title? I believe the division winner, no matter whom it is, will finish 7-9.
And now, my favorite part of this unhealthy relationship: the 2nd half predictions!
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Sam Bradford, Rams
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Ndamukong Suh, Lions
Offensive Player of the Year: Arian Foster, Texans
Defensive Player of the Year: Clay Matthews, Packers
Coach of the Year: Todd Haley, Chiefs
Most Valuable Player: Peyton Manning, Colts
Playoff Predictions
Seeds in ( )
AFC East: Jets (2)
AFC North: Steelers (1)
AFC South: Colts (3)
AFC West: Chargers (4)
AFC Wild Cards: Patriots (5) and Texans (6)
NFC East: Giants (1)
NFC North: Packers (3)
NFC South: Saints (2)
NFC West: Seahawks (4)
NFC Wild Cards: Falcons (5) and Eagles (6)
First Round
Colts 30, Texans 24
Patriots 20, Chargers 18
Packers 27, Eagles 21
Falcons 37, Seahawks 14
Divisional Round
Steelers 17, Patriots 14
Jets 23, Colts 21
Giants 30, Falcons 27
Packers 35, Saints 28
Conference Championships
Steelers 24, Jets 14
Giants 28, Packers 23
Super Bowl
Steelers 31, Giants 24
Picks for Week 10 (1-3 last week, 5-7 overall)
NYG -15 over Dal
Min -1 over CHI
ATL -2 over Bal
Hou +1 over JAX
But if anything else, I've learned that the NFL season flys by like no other sport in the world. The baseball and hockey regular seasons are grueling, often boring marathons. The NFL season ends in the blink of an eye. We've already reached the halfway point of the season, and like a bad relationship, it's time to give praise but take a lot of shots at the same time. And for a diehard NFL fan like myself, I wouldn't have it any other way. Here's my awards, wrist slaps, and 2nd half predictions for this grueling relationship.
Biggest Surprise: AFC West
If you had told me that by Week 10 the CHIEFS and RAIDERS would reign supreme in the AFC West, Lamar Hunt would roll over in his grave and I'd advise you and Al Davis to seek some counseling. But it's true. Kansas City has emerged as a playoff contender due to outstanding running from Jamal Charles and Thomas Jones, and big plays from Matt Cassel. Not to mention their defense has staked its claim to being one of the best in the league this year. The Raiders, while half as talented, have recieved outstanding play from quarterback Jason Campbell, and the team seems to have shaken off the stench left behind by the JaMarcus Russell epic fail. Even Darrius Heyward-Bey (yeah, him) has stepped up. But the key behind the revival of the Silver and Black has been the play of the league's #2 rushing offense with a breakout year from Darren McFadden) and #3 pass defense, led by Nnamdi Asomugha. This all being said, expect a revival of the Chargers and eventual overtaking of both teams by the Bolts by the end of the season. But the revival of two old AFL rivals makes for a nice first-half story.
Biggest Disappointment: Dallas Cowboys
I was going to lump the Minnesota Vikings into this category as well, but after all the drama surrounding Mr. Favre and Mr. Moss and Mr. Childress, they saved their season with a dramatic comeback against Arizona last Sunday and set themselves up for a possible 2nd half surge. But wasn't this supposed to be the year Jerry Jones got a Super Bowl in his own back yard? Wasn't this supposed to be the year Tony Romo rose to the elite? Wasn't this supposed to be the year the Cowboys broke through with their sixth Super Bowl title, proving Wade Phillips could win? Guess what, Cowboy haters? CELEBRATE! The 'Boys are 1-7, Jones had to fire a head coach within the regular season for the first time after Sunday's 45-7 disgrace in Green Bay, Romo is possibly out for the season, and the team is not inspired to even leave the locker room on Sundays. You could point the finger at the coach, the owner, or the players, but the truth is you should point the finger at the business model of the Cowboys: make money, lots and lots of money, and pray the team on the field delivers a Super Bowl. Major changes are in store for this franchise.
Best Team
Last week it was the Patriots. The week before it was the Jets. The week before it was the Steelers. Week before the Ravens. Week beforrrreeee......
In other words, take your pick. There are no elite teams in the pack of simply good to very good teams in the league after four weeks. They are as follows: The Jets, Patriots, Ravens, Steelers, Giants, Eagles, Packers, Saints, and Falcons. That's a heckofalota teams right there. As per the theme of this season in my intro, you just don't know week after week.
Worst Team
Tie between the Bills and Cowboys. The Cowboys for the reasons explained above, and the Bills simply because they are 0-8. However, the Bills come to play week after week, and are no pushover. They will eventually get a win as long as Ryan Fitzpatrick plays out of his mind. The Cowboys simply don't compete. So if you put a gun to my head, I'd lean toward Dallas. God, it feels good to be a Cowboy hater these days.
Best Player
Once again, it is Mr. Manning from Indianapolis. His offensive weapons have been decimated by injuries. His favorite target, Dallas Clark, is out for the season, and arguably the poor man's Wes Welker, Austin Collie, is hurt once again. Other than Reggie Wayne, his options are the overrated Pierre Garcon, Blair White, and Jacob Tamme. Strikes a lot of fear in your heart, doesn't it? But of course, it is Peyton's place, and he is the glue, the heart, the soul, the foundation, and the infrastructure of the Colts. Without him, they are nothing. He is showing why once again.
Honorable mentions: Tom Brady, Clay Matthews, Eli Manning, Michael Vick, Matt Ryan, Chris Johnson, Arian Foster.
Worst Player
Randy Moss. He is already on his third team this season. The circumstances behind his departure from the Patriots were simply business. The circumstances behind his departure from the Vikings are simply despicable. Whatever the situations, Moss has simply quit on two different teams this year. If he is quitting on Tom Brady and Brett Favre, how in the world can Vince Young or Kerry Collings possibly make him happy?
Best Coach
Tom Coughlin, Giants. After a 1-2 start from the Giants, Coughlin survived calls from the media and fans for his head and enormous pressure from within to lead the G-Men to the top of the NFC and a 6-2 record. Coughlin gets beaten and tortured in the media day in and day out, and is roundly criticized by fans, but he continues to go about his business with class and dignity, and has not only saved his job, but put New York in position for a Super Bowl run. Honorable mention: Mike Smith, Falcons; Mike McCarthy, Packers; John Harbaugh, Ravens; Rex Ryan, Jets; Tom Cable, Raiders; Todd Haley, Chiefs.
Worst Coach
Now that Wade Phillips is out of the picture, the overwhelming choice is Brad Childress. Amid in-fighting with his recievers, conflicts with ownership, questionable play calling, and an overall mediocre record, Chilly is the next to go with one more bad loss.
Breakout Player
If you drafted Arian Foster of the Texans for your fantasy team, you look like an absolute genius. Foster has established himself as an elite running back in the NFL, leading the league in rushing (864 yards) and touchdowns (10), including 231 yards and 3 TD's on opening day. Honorable mentions: Darren McFadden, Peyton Hillis, Kenny Britt.
Top Storylines for the Second Half
1. Can the Vikings rally for a playoff spot? Yes, but if any only if: the ancient Favre can stay upright, Brad Childress can get out of his own way, and they can beat the Bears and Packers the next two weeks. The Randy Moss drama ended, and the Brett Favre sexting drama appears to be on the shelf for now. Is this Favre's last hurrah? Please. But if so, and we're not sure, he will want to go out with a bang. They will be dangerous in the second half.
2. Can the Chiefs or Raiders or both make the playoffs? I think the Raiders will fall just short, but I believe the Chiefs are talented enough and hungry enough to squeak in. I believe the Chargers will end up winning the AFC West despite another mediocre start, but in a wide-open AFC playoff picture, it's possible Kansas City can sneak in.
3. Can Donovan McNabb lead the Redskins to the playoffs? McNabb's benching by coach Mike Shanahan in Detroit created unnecessary controversy in the Nation's Capital. With the Giants pulling away and Eagles showing signs of a playoff team, the time is now for both to co-exist and guide their new team to the playoffs. It won't be easy, though.
4. Can the Houston Texans finally take that next step? It's still too difficult to tell. They have all the talent in the world on the offensive side of the football, but it's the defense that has prevented Houston from taking that next step. Betty White could throw for 500 yards against that secondary, and how much longer can Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson, and Arian Foster survive shootout after shootout? I still say they make it in.
5. Will the NFC West champion have a sub-.500 record? It would be sad yet fascinating at the same time. Any one of the four teams can still win this awful, awful division. Imagine, for instance, the 49ers fighting their way to a 7-9 record, finishing tied for first with Seattle. But by virtue of a tiebreaker, they miss out on the division title? I believe the division winner, no matter whom it is, will finish 7-9.
And now, my favorite part of this unhealthy relationship: the 2nd half predictions!
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Sam Bradford, Rams
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Ndamukong Suh, Lions
Offensive Player of the Year: Arian Foster, Texans
Defensive Player of the Year: Clay Matthews, Packers
Coach of the Year: Todd Haley, Chiefs
Most Valuable Player: Peyton Manning, Colts
Playoff Predictions
Seeds in ( )
AFC East: Jets (2)
AFC North: Steelers (1)
AFC South: Colts (3)
AFC West: Chargers (4)
AFC Wild Cards: Patriots (5) and Texans (6)
NFC East: Giants (1)
NFC North: Packers (3)
NFC South: Saints (2)
NFC West: Seahawks (4)
NFC Wild Cards: Falcons (5) and Eagles (6)
First Round
Colts 30, Texans 24
Patriots 20, Chargers 18
Packers 27, Eagles 21
Falcons 37, Seahawks 14
Divisional Round
Steelers 17, Patriots 14
Jets 23, Colts 21
Giants 30, Falcons 27
Packers 35, Saints 28
Conference Championships
Steelers 24, Jets 14
Giants 28, Packers 23
Super Bowl
Steelers 31, Giants 24
Picks for Week 10 (1-3 last week, 5-7 overall)
NYG -15 over Dal
Min -1 over CHI
ATL -2 over Bal
Hou +1 over JAX
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