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| Saturday, April 26, 2008 |
 For the second round onward, I’ll just provide summaries courtesy ESPN and Scouts, Inc. I’ll break out Dallas Cowboys picks and trades and any major news in separate posts.
32. Miami Dolphins
The pick: Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
What he brings: Merling’s stock dropped because of a sports hernia injury. He’s going to have a harder time turning the corner at the NFL level because he doesn’t have great speed. However, he has good size and some experience lining up at defensive tackle. If he can improve his upper-body strength and learn to play lower, he could be an excellent run-stopper and effective bull-rusher.
How he fits: With Jason Taylor, 33, aging, this pick makes a lot of sense based on Meling’s upside. He will come in and work in the rotation with Taylor and Matt Roth.
33. St. Louis Rams
The pick: Donnie Avery, WR, Houston
What he brings: This is a substantial reach in our opinion. There’s a lot to like about Avery’s speed and he’s a big-play threat whether he’s catching the ball down field, running after the catch or in the return game. However, he’s an undersized receiver who’s going to get pushed around and doesn’t appear comfortable going over the middle. Finally, he has a lot of work to do to improve his route running.
How he fits: He will play the slot in the Rams’ offense. He is quicker than fast and will work in the multi-receiver sets in passing situations. WR Torry Holt is a No. 1, but Drew Bennett has concerns. This is an Al Saunders pick based on how he fits in the offense.
34. Washington Redskins
The pick: Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State
What he brings: Washington couldn’t be happier about Thomas slipping, considering no one would have blinked had the Redskins selected him in the first round. Thomas isn’t as good at stretching the field as his speed would suggest and he needs to improve his route running. But he has the quickness and athletic ability to continue to improve in those areas. He’s also very good creating after catch for a player his size.
How he fits: Thomas provides them with a big receiver who had solid production at Michigan State. He is a good fit in Jim Zorn’s West Coast offense. He is a two-level receiver and a perfect fit in Washington.
35. Kansas City Chiefs
The pick: Brandon Flowers, CB, Virginia Tech
What he brings: Flowers doesn’t have elite size or top-end speed. Occasionally, he gets caught out of position trying to make a big play. However, he plays far bigger than his size indicates and faster than his 40 time suggest. He opens his hips very well and has the upper-body strength to deliver a violent punch. There’s also a lot to like about his willingness to play the run.
How he fits: With the loss of Ty Law, the Chiefs had to address the left corner spot opposite Patrick Surtain. Flowers is a physical player who plays bigger than his size indicates, which is a good fit in the Chiefs’ defensive coverage schemes.
36. Green Bay Packers
The pick: Jordy Nelson, WR, Kansas State
What he brings: Nelson isn’t a very sexy pick; he doesn’t have great speed and isn’t elusive. However, this kid knows how to play the game. He is a very good route-runner, has a wide-frame that allows him to shield defenders from the ball and catches the ball very well. He is a high-character player who is going to have a positive influence in the locker room once he establishes himself.
How he fits: He is a big receiver who gives the Packers size and is a solid fit in their West Coast offense. This position wasn’t a major need, but he was a highly-productive player in college. They have Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, Koren Robinson and James Jones, but Nelson gives QB Aaron Rodgers another threat in the passing game. He also has added value as a punt returner.
37. Atlanta Falcons
The pick: Curtis Lofton, ILB, Oklahoma
What he brings: Much like Nelson, Lofton isn’t going to wow you with his natural ability; he doesn’t have great speed and lacks the athletic ability to matchup with running backs in man coverage. But he’s a throwback inside linebacker. He’s tough, locates the ball and is a strong tackler who can deliver the big hit. Although he has limitations in coverage, Lofton gets adequate depth when in zone coverage and his ball skills are underrated.
How he fits: Atlanta could have gone a lot of ways with this pick, but with the concerns of aging MLB Keith Brooking, Lofton makes sense. He is an instinctive player who reacts well and should develop into a force on the interior against the run on first and second down. He has a knack for being around the football and the Falcons must continue to strengthen the interior of their defense.
38. Seattle Seahawks
The pick: John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame
What he brings: Carlson had a disappointing showing at the combine and his 4.88 40 time shows that he’s going to have problems working the seam. There are also concerns about the number of passes he dropped last year. However, he has the frame to bulk up and develop into an effective in-line blocker. He also has the wide frame and body control to develop into an effective short-to-intermediate receiver and productive red zone target.
How he fits: One of the key ingredients in Mike Holmgren’s West Coast offense has been the tight end, but the Seahawks have lacked at this position recently. Carlson is a smart and instinctive player who can be a factor in the short- and intermediate-passing game. This will open up other opportunities for WRs Deion Branch, Bobby Engram and Nate Burleson.
39. San Francisco 49ers
The pick: Chilo Rachal, G, USC
What he brings: The biggest knock on Rachal is his lack of athletic ability and has problems redirecting in pass protection. He struggles, at times, to reach blockers in the second level and athletically he has some limitations. However, he’s quick off the ball, jars defenders with a strong punch and gets in position quickly. He also does a good job holding his ground against bull-rushers.
How he fits: It’s obvious the 49ers feel they need to upgrade at guard with the loss of Larry Allen in the offseason. Rachal is a mauler who needs to be in a confined area due to his athletic limitations. However, he has the size and initial quickness to wall off and position while creating inside lanes. He should be able to come in and compete with David Baas at right guard.
40. New Orleans Saints
The pick: Tracy Porter, CB, Indiana
What he brings: Porter doesn’t have elite bulk, so bigger wideouts are going to be able to push him around, and he’s not going to be great in run support. On the flip side, he has good top-end speed and he’s a playmaker who does a good job of getting his head turned while tracking the ball downfield. He also the instincts and quickness to mirror receivers underneath. It’s also worth pointing out that Porter can contribute as a punt returner.
How he fits: Porter addresses a major need on the Saints. Even though they signed Randall Gay to cover up the mistake they made with Jason David, Porter will add even more help on the back end. Plus, the knee injury Mike McKenzie suffered last season is still a major question mark. This team has to find a way to get off the field on third down and force interceptions. He also has value as punt returner, which could take some pressure off RB Reggie Bush on special teams.
41. Buffalo Bills
The pick: James Hardy, WR, Indiana
What he brings: Hardy doesn’t make crisp cuts and needs to work on his route-running. He’s going to have a tough time separating from man coverage. On the other hand, you don’t have to separate from coverage nearly as much when you have the wide frame to shield defenders from the ball and you can make catches in traffic like Hardy can. Also, he’s fast enough to make teams pay when they try to jump the underneath route.
How he fits: This addresses the Bills’ need for a big, athletic receiver the opposite Lee Evans, who is a legitimate No. 1 receiver. Hardy steps in as the No. 2 and allows Josh Reed to move back to the slot. Hardy also gives young QB Trent Edwards another big-play threat on the outside and a big target in the red zone.
42. Denver Broncos
The pick: Eddie Royal, WR, Virgina Tech
What he brings: Royal has had some problems staying healthy, and the fact that he doesn’t have great size only accentuates concerns about his durability. He has to improve his route-running, but he has the quickness and athletic ability to separate from coverage once that happens. He’s fast enough to stretch the field and make an impact as a punt returner.
How he fits: The Broncos aggressively addressed their receiving corps this offseason with the additions of Samie Parker and Keary Colbert to play opposite No. 1 WR Brandon Marshall. Royal gives Mike Shanahan a slot receiver who can be effective in their multiple-spread sets. He gives Cutler another explosive weapon who can play in the slot. He also adds value as a punt returner.
43. Minnesoata Vikings (from CAR through PHI)
The pick: Tyrell Johnson, S, Arkansas State
What he brings: Johnson doesn’t have great man-to-man cover skills and is going to have trouble matching up with slot receivers. Additionally, you would have liked to see him make more big plays against inferior competition. However, he plays bigger than his size would suggest and is a sound tackler who can line up in the box. He has the range to cover the deep half of the field.
How he fits: The Vikings were active at safety in the offseason, adding Madieu Williams and Michael Boulware. Johnson gives them a physical safety who can play near the line of scrimmage or as a two-deep safety. This guy is the eventual replacement to Darren Sharper at strong safety.
44. Chicago Bears
The pick: Matt Forte, RB, Tulane
What he brings: This is a minor reach in our opinion. Forte is an instinctive runner who does a good job locating seams between the tackles and excels at picking up yards after contact. Also, he catches the ball well and is the best pass-blocker of all the running backs in this draft. However, he’s faster than quick, so he’ll have some problems turning the corner and won’t break a lot of long runs in the NFL.
How he fits: With the obvious disappointment in Cedric Benson and Adrian Peterson not being an every-down back, Forte has a chance to play right away. He is a three-down back who can block very well. He is faster than quick, but he may struggle as a pass receiver. Depending on how Benson starts the season, Forte could take reps away from him. He will be on the heels of Benson all year.
45. Detroit Lions
The pick: Jordon Dizon, OLB, Colorado
What he brings: Looking at Dizon in street clothes or watching him run you wouldn’t think that he’d be an NFL linebacker. He lacks ideal size, doesn’t have great range and can be a liability in man coverage. But Dizon is a classic overachiever. He makes up for his lack of burst by reacting quickly. He takes sound pursuit angels and is an excellent open-field tackler. In addition, he rarely gets caught out of position when dropping into zone coverage.
How he fits: Dizon is a blue-collared athlete who plays hard on every down. He is going to play middle linebacker in this defense and that is an area the Lions wanted to address in the draft. He is a Cover 2 linebacker who is clearly a Rod Marinelli type of player.
46. Cincinnati Bengals
The pick: Jerome Simpson, WR, Coastal Carolina
What he brings: We are surprised Simpson came off the board earlier than Limas Sweed, DeSean Jackson and Malcolm Kelly. Simpson isn’t a great route runner and played at a small school, so he faces a steeper learning curve. On the plus side, he has adequate size and the frame to get even bigger. He also has good speed, tracks the ball well and can make a spectacular catch.
How he fits: The Bengals obviously had Simpson rated higher than the other receivers on the board. This team was in a dire need of receiver due to the release of Chris Henry and the uncertainty of Chad Johnson. Depending on what Johnson does, Simpson could come in and play right away. What was once a strength in Cincy is now a serious question mark.
47. Philadelphia Eagles
The pick: Trevor Laws, DT, Notre Dame
What he brings: Laws lacks prototypical size for an interior run-stuffer and doesn’t have the burst to consistently get to the quarterback at the professional level. But he reminds us of the Energize bunny. He works from the snap until the whistle on every play. Also, he plays with excellent leverage and is strong for his size — he’s much stouter than you would think looking at his measurables.
How he fits: Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson loves to stockpile defensive tackles and Laws will be part of the rotation with LaJuan Ramsey and Montae Reagor. The surprising thing is that DTs Mike Patterson and Brodrick Bunkley had good years last year, which allowed DE Trent Cole to dominate outside. This was not a serious need for Philadelphia, but it works within the Eagles’ philosophy.
48. Washington Redskins
The pick: Fred Davis, TE, USC
What he brings: There were concerns about Davis’ ability to stretch the field before the combine, and his slow 40 time backed up what we saw on film. He isn’t an overwhelming in-line blocker, either, but does a good job getting in position and fights to sustain his blocks. In addition, he has the athletic ability, big hands and long arms to emerge as a reliable possession receiver.
How he fits: Based on the offensive scheme Jim Zorn will run, the two-tight end packages will be key. Davis will allow the Redskins to move TE Chris Cooley all over and create mismatches on offense. There were no other quality tight ends on the roster and Davis fills this need for Washington.
50. Arizona Cardinals
The pick: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami (Fla.)
What he brings: Campbell has great size for a defensive end and is a decent tackler, so he has the potential to develop into a run-stopper. He also has long arms to get his hands up and knock passes down when he doesn’t get to the quarterback. That’s important because we don’t see him getting to the quarterback very often. Although he’s an adequate bull-rusher, he doesn’t have great lateral ability or closing speed.
How he fits: He is a true boom-or-bust player, but with the age and injury concerns of Bertrand Berry and Antonio Smith in the final year of his contract, Campbell will fit in nicely. He will be part of the rotation on the left side behind Smith because Travis LaBoy will bring pressure off the edge as a starting right defensive end. This pick gives the Cardinals valuable depth, but we see him as a better player versus the run.
51. Washington Redskins
The pick: Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
What he brings: Campbell has great size for a defensive end and is a decent tackler, so he has the potential to develop into a run-stopper. He also has long arms to get his hands up and knock passes down when he doesn’t get to the quarterback. That’s important because we don’t see him getting to the quarterback very often. Although he’s an adequate bull-rusher, he doesn’t have great lateral ability or closing speed.
How he fits: Obviously the Redskins have taken advantage of the receivers falling on draft day. This team has lacked big and physical receivers who will open up the West Coast attack even more and the addition of Kelly will help them open up Antwaan Randle El and Santana Moss. This pick, along with WR Devin Thomas, helps bolster a questionable receiving corps.
52. Jacksonville Jaguars
The pick: Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn
What he brings: Campbell has great size for a defensive end and is a decent tackler, so he has the potential to develop into a run-stopper. He also has long arms to get his hands up and knock passes down when he doesn’t get to the quarterback. That’s important because we don’t see him getting to the quarterback very often. Although he’s an adequate bull-rusher, he doesn’t have great lateral ability or closing speed.
How he fits: Obviously the Redskins have taken advantage of the receivers falling on draft day. This team has lacked big and physical receivers who will open up the West Coast attack even more and the addition of Kelly will help them open up Antwaan Randle El and Santana Moss. This pick, along with WR Devin Thomas, helps bolster a questionable receiving corps.
53. Pittsburgh Steelers
The pick: Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
What he brings: Sweed is, at best, an average route-runner and can struggle when he gets slowed down at the line of scrimmage because he doesn’t have great quickness. However, he has good size and is smooth changing directions. In addition, he has good speed and does a good job of tracking the ball downfield.
How he fits: He fulfills the need of a big, tall receiver, which QB Ben Roethlisberger so desperately wanted since WR Plaxico Burress went to New York. Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians loves to throw the football and Sweed gives them a receiver who can move around in the formation and create matchup problems with Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward.
54. Tennessee Titans
The pick: Jason Jones, DE, Eastern Michigan
What he brings: Jones is a classic ‘tweener. He doesn’t have great closing speed for a defensive end or the size to consistently hold up against the run and line up at defensive tackle. He has experience lining up at both spots, however. So he can line-up at end, at which he’s big enough to hold his ground on run-heavy down and is athletic enough to rush the passer from the inside on obvious passing downs.
How he fits: Based on the losses of Antwan Odom and Travis LaBoy, the Titans had to address the DE position. He gives them a force against the run and will have to develop as a pass- rusher. He has some versatility to possibly play inside as a defensive tackle.
55. Baltimore Ravens
The pick: Ray Rice, RB, Rutgers
What he brings: Rice is undersized and runs like a power back, so teams are concerned at his ability to take a pounding at the professional level. Also, he needs to improve his route-running ability before making a substantial contribution on passing downs. On the plus side, he reads his blocks well and has excellent lower-body strength, so he’s far more effective between the tackles than his size suggest. He also has the hands to develop into a reliable receiver, and he’s a surprisingly effective pass-blocker.
How he fits: He brings another dimension to the Ravens’ offense with Willis McGahee. They have a good, young offensive line and Rice adds another option in the offense as a playmaker. He will be a change-of-pace back who can take pressure off the quarterback. This was a good pick by Baltimore.
56. Green Bay Packers
The pick: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
What he brings: Brohm, like a lot of other young quarterbacks, can have a hard time beating pressure, doesn’t have great mobility and takes some big hits. He also needs to improve his decision-making. On the flipside, he has excellent mechanics, put great touch on his throws and is good at hitting his receivers in stride. In addition, he has good football smarts and reads defenses well.
How he fits: This is a good value pick by the Packers. Brohm clearly fell because there was a strong possibility of him being a first-rounder. Brohm has already played in a pro-style offense at Louisville, which has some similarities to Green Bay. Aaron Rodgers is still a question mark as a starting quarterback. and this pick puts pressure on him.
57. Miami Dolphins
The pick: Chad Henne, QB, Michigan
What he brings: Henne has good size and very good arm strenghth, so he can find the open receiver and get them the ball anywhere on the field. Much like Brohm, he’s a student of the game; his ability to breakdown defense should improve with time. However, he’s a little statuesque so he has problems buying time in the pocket and is not a threat to scramble. More importantly, he has tendency to lock on to his primary receiver.
How he fits: John Beck is not a Bill Parcells player and Henne fits the mold as a Parcells guy. Beck was very shaky as a starter last year and Henne will compete for the starting job right away. Beck has lots of questions about his size, arm strength and age. The Dolphins needed to take a quarterback and Henne fits this need perfectly.
58. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The pick: Dexter Jackson, WR, Appalachian State
What he brings: Jackson is a small-school prospect who lacks ideal size and played in a read-option offense in college. As a result, there are obvious concerns about his ability to make the jump to the NFL. That said, there’s no denying Jackson has great upside. He’s quick, explodes out of his cuts and is dangerous after the catch. When teams try to take away the underneath he’s fast enough to run by most corners. He does a decent job tracking the ball downfield.
How he fits: This is a great pick by the Bucs. Even though Joey Galloway continues to play at a high level, he is getting up there in age. Jackson gives the Bucs a fast and explosive receiver Jon Gruden can utilize. This team has some decisions to make at receiver because Ike Hilliard is best suited as a No. 3, Michael Clayton has underachieved and the uncertainty of Antonio Bryant. Jackson will also help in the return game.
59. Indianapolis Colts
The pick: Mike Pollak, C, Arizona State
What he brings: He isn’t an overwhelming drive blocker and is going to have some problems when nose tackles line-up directly over his head. However, he’s the best center available. He gets into position quickly and has the balance to sustain his blocks. He also has the upper-body strength and lateral mobility to hold up in protection.
How he fits: This is a great pick. He was the best center on the board and can eventually replace an aging Jeff Saturday. He may play some guard next year, but his eventual spot is center. He fits the mold as a typical Colts offensive linemen — smart, tough and physical.
60. Green Bay Packers
The pick: Patrick Lee, CB, Auburn
What he brings: The argument can be made that Lee best fits in a Cover 2 scheme as he doesn’t open his hips as well as some of the other corners in this class. However he has enough athletic ability and speed to develop into an effective No. 2 for a team that plays man coverage most of the time. In addition, there’s a lot to like about his toughness, willingness to step up in run support and ability to contribute on special teams.
How he fits: With the aging Al Harris and Charles Woodson in Green Bay, this pick makes a lot of sense. He can also fill a role in the Packers’ nickel and dime packages as a No. 3 or No. 4 corner. He will also have a role on special teams. This is a good pick for a defense that is getting younger and keeps getting better.
61. Dallas Cowboys
The pick: Martellus Bennett, TE, Texas A&M
What he brings: Bennett isn’t an elite run-blocker and doesn’t have great top-end speed. However, he’s a great value. Watching him on film and knowing that he played college basketball for two seasons, it’s hard not to compare him to San Diego tight end Antonio Gates. Much like Gates, Bennett knows how to use his size to box defenders out, and he can make tough catches in traffic. Taking the comparison even further, Bennett is versatile enough to flex out wide.
How he fits: With the trade of Anthony Fasano to the Dolphins, this is a good pick by Dallas. The Cowboys had to get a second tight end. They run a lot of two-tight end sets and Bennett has some functional play speed. His best fit will be as an extra blocker. His presence allows the Cowboys to utilize Jason Witten out in the formation.
62. New England Patriots
The pick: Terrence Wheatley, CB, Colorado
What he brings: Wheatley is another example of a player who teams are concerned about staying healthy. He doesn’t have great size and has a long history of injuries. On the plus side, he has the fluid hips, speed and burst to develop excellent man-to-man cover skills. In addition, he’s a better tackler than his size would suggest; he can make play in run support and covering punts.
How he fits: With the loss of Asante Samuel, the Pats had to address the corner position. The Pats signed a lot of stop-gap corners in the offseason in Jason Webster, Lewis Sanders and Fernando Bryant, but Wheatley has more upside. He is a small corner, but has skills and will contribute in sub packages based on matchups. His upside is somewhat-limited based on his size.
63. New York Giants
The pick: Terrell Thomas, CB, USC
What he brings: Thomas doesn’t open his hips that well, and doesn’t always get his head turned around to locate the ball while running with receivers down field. Consequently, he is vulnerable to getting beat deep when left on an island. He is also another player who has a long history of injuries. However, he has excellent size and good upper-body strength, so he can slow receivers down at the line. There’s also a lot to like about his versatility; he can line up at safety and does a very good job covering kicks.
How he fits: The Giants’ main weakness on defense last season was their secondary. Thomas will help improve this area of the game. Sam Madison is getting up in age and has declining skills. R.W. McQuarters is better suited as a No. 4 or No. 5 corner. Thomas has some versatility, but played corner primarily at USC. He fits in Steve Spagnuolo’s system, who loves to run zone-blitz schemes.
Featured posts:
NFL Draft 2008 – Round 2 #53 – Green Bay Packers – QB Brian Brohm
NFL Draft 2008 – Round 2 #54 – Miami Dolphins – QB Chad Henne
NFL Draft 2008 – Round 2 #61 – Dallas Cowboys – Martellus Bennett
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| Saturday, April 26, 2008 |
The Chargers wasted little time in grabbing cornerback Antoine Cason from Arizona.
Scouts, Inc.: 42
Strengths: A tall, somewhat lean corner with long arms (32.3 ) and big hands (9.2 ). Very instinctive and confident. Played in a blitz-heavy scheme that frequently left him on an island, but he’s better suited to play zone in the NFL. He has very good straight-line speed. Footwork is sound, plays with good balance and shows good burst coming out of cuts. Gets good knee bend in backpedal, reads routes fairly well and closes quickly. Times jumps well and is tall enough to compete for jump balls. Has quick feet and shows a second gear when tracking the ball downfield. Reads routes well, reads quarterback’s eyes and is aggressive. Locates the ball well. Displays good ball skills and flashes big-play ability after interceptions. Physical and fills hard when reads run. Active and can effectively bluff blitz. Has progressed steadily and should only continue to get better with experience. A person of high character and a hard worker on and off the field. Passionate about the game and is out to prove he’s better than people think. Very durable athlete.
Weaknesses: Though he has quick feet and good straight-line speed, he shows stiffness in his hips. Struggles to open quickly and mirror faster/quicker receivers. Press technique can improve. Hand-placement is inconsistent and he hasn’t shown great upper body strength. Will have some problems rerouting receivers at the NFL level and is more effective playing off the line than he is jamming receivers. He plays the game hard but isn’t as physical as you’d like to see, especially from a cover-2 type NFL prospect. Takes too long to shed block when gets reached and occasionally takes himself out of the play by trying to avoid blocker rather than stacking him up. Doesn’t always wrap up upon contact and is an inconsistent open field tackler that isn’t going to deliver a lot of big hits.
Overall: Cason arrived at Arizona in 2004 and went on to start all 46 games during his Wildcats career (’04-07). In his first three seasons, he compiled 182 tackles (10 for losses), three forced fumbles, 10 interceptions (one of which he returned for a touchdown) and 18 pass breakups. He turned in his finest season as a senior, recording 71 tackles (four for losses), two forced fumbles, five interceptions (two of which he returned for TDs) and 14 pass breakups. He had two more scores and averaged 10.0 yards on 27 punt returns last season. Cason also participated on Arizona’s track team in 2006, competing in the 200 meters and the sprint relays. His father Wendell played three seasons in the NFL and his cousins Aveion Cason and Ken-yon Rambo also played in the league. Aveion has played six seasons with three different teams and Ken-yon played two seasons (2001-02) for the Cowboys. Cason has some stiffness in his hips and will struggle to turn-and-run with some faster NFL receivers, which is why he’s best suited to play in a cover-2 heavy scheme. Otherwise, his combination of physical tools, mental toughness and versatility is impressive. He has the size, straight-line speed and anticipation to emerge as a solid starter in a zone-heavy NFL defense, and he also can compete for touches on punt returns. Cason should come off the board in Round 2.
Rick Gosselin: 45
Rather early to take him here, frankly, although some mock drafts had the Cowboys grabbing him with the 28th pick.
San Diego will travel 5,478 miles to play New Orleans.
PHOENIX (Reuters) – The National Football League is returning to London next season for another regular season game with the San Diego Chargers playing the New Orleans Saints, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced on Friday.
The Saints will host the Chargers at Wembley Stadium on October 26, Goodell said.
In another international development, the commissioner said the Buffalo Bills would cross the border into Canada to play a regular season game every year in Toronto over the next five years starting this season.
Goodell, who did not specify the Bills’ opponent in this year’s game in Toronto, also said Buffalo would play a pre-season game every other year there.
Last season saw the NFL’s boldest international move to date when the New York Giants beat the Miami Dolphins 13-10 at Wembley in October in the league’s first ever regular season game held outside North America.
NFL Europe went bust in 2007. There was a team in London, but the Monarachs eventually moved to Berlin due to lack of fan support. Then why does the NFL feel the need to play regular season games in this city?
It took Cameron almost precisely three weeks to find new employment in the NFL.
Cam Cameron was named Ravens offensive coordinator yesterday, becoming new coach John Harbaugh’s first and perhaps most important hire.
If Harbaugh wants to turn around the Ravens in the 2008 season, he’ll need Cameron to revitalize an offense that has consistently ranked among the NFL’s worst for a decade.
Before he was fired as head coach of the 1-15 Miami Dolphins three weeks ago, Cameron built a reputation for directing one of the NFL’s most explosive attacks. In his last three seasons as the San Diego Chargers’ offensive coordinator (2004-2006), the team finished in the NFL’s top five in scoring, averaging 28.3 points a game.
I think Cameron got less than a fair deal with Miami. Yes he made mistakes, but I would have been willing to give Cam another shot in 2008 with Miami. The Dolphins were long on the way to falling apart before Cameron’s arrival. Cameron had just the bad luck to be present at the collapse. With apologies to the late Dean Acheson. LOL
I wish Coach Cameron well in Baltimore.
The Charger QB had surgery today. From The San Diego Union-Tribune-
Philip Rivers’ anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee is “totally gone†and he will have reconstructive surgery soon.
The recovery time for the surgery is not known but Rivers said he definitely will be 100 percent by the start of next season.
Meanwhile, Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson said his sprained MCL will not require surgery. About four weeks rest should be enough to heal the injury that kept him out of all but the first two offensive series of Sunday’s AFC Championship Game.
“It’s just time,†Tomlinson said. “It’s not going to require surgery. Most of these injuries, when you have a sprained MCL, it takes four weeks.â€
Rivers played the entirety of the Chargers’ 21-12 loss to the New England Patriots with a right knee with no ACL. He revealed Monday he had arthroscopic surgery last Monday to clean out loose cartilage and enable him to play.
Not to minimize Rivers’ bravery(or craziness depending on your POV) while playing hurt, if his ACL was totally gone as described, he wouldn’t have been walking alone playing yesterday.
The Chargers put up a heck of a game yesterday. Imagine if the team would have been healthy. Then imagine if the pathetic 1972 NY Jets defense wasn’t so slow that they allowed a 37-year-old QB named Earl Morrall to scramble for a TD on a run of over 30 yards and the 1972 Dolphins wouldn’t have been undefeated that year either.
Get well Philip. Hope to see you back in uniform to open the 2008 season.
Hat tip- Dan Z at Wizbang Sports
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| Friday, January 18, 2008 |
The playoffs aren’t even over yet but fans of 28 of 32 teams are already looking ahead to next year.
I read a lot about football and listen to Sirius’ NFL Radio on my daily commute but I’m not a professional scout. I can, however, see what the pros are saying and look for trends. It’s silly at this early stage to go beyond the 1st round, so I won’t; most of those who are linked below do, though, so you can click through if you’re interested.
Note: I’m a (bitterly disappointed) Cowboys fan, so I’ll highlight their picks in bold. I’ll also leave in explanations/discussion about picks that I remove for other teams for sake of brevity, not stealing all the thunder of the pickers.
Mel Kiper is the best known draft guy. Here’s his current Big Board (1/14). It merely ranks players without assigning them to teams, since sometimes teams draft based on need.
1. Darren McFadden Jr. RB Arkansas
2. Glenn Dorsey Sr. DT LSU
3. Jake Long Sr. OT Michigan
4. Chris Long Sr. DE Virginia
5. Sedrick Ellis Sr. DT USC
6. Matt Ryan Sr. QB Boston College
7. Ryan Clady Jr. OT Boise St.
8. Aqib Talib Jr. CB Kansas
9. Vernon Gholston Jr. DE Ohio St.
10. DeSean Jackson Jr. WR California
11. Calais Campbell Jr. DE Miami
12. Sam Baker Sr. OT USC
13. Kentwan Balmer Sr. DT UNC
14. Felix Jones Jr. RB Arkansas
15. Brian Brohm Sr. QB Louisville
16. Jonathan Stewart Jr. RB Oregon
17. Kenny Phillips Jr. S Miami
18. Dan Connor Sr. LB Penn St.
19. Mike Jenkins Sr. CB South Florida
20. Rashard Mendenhall Jr. RB Illinois
21. Reggie Smith Jr. CB Oklahoma
22. Keith Rivers Sr. LB USC
23. Pat Sims Jr. DT Auburn
24. Fred Davis Sr. TE USC
25. Leodis McKelvin Sr. CB Troy
Tony Conty, NFL Draft Blitz (1/15)
1) Miami Dolphins-Glenn Dorsey, DT-LSU
2) St. Louis Rams-Chris Long, DE-Virginia
3) Oakland Raiders-Sedrick Ellis, DT-USC
4) Atlanta Falcons-Matt Ryan, QB-Boston College
5) Kansas City Chiefts-Darren McFadden, RB-Arkansas
6) New York Jets-Jake Long, T-Michigan
7) New England Patriots-Keith Rivers, OLB-USC
8 ) Baltimore Ravens-Brian Brohm, QB-Louisville
9) Cincinnati Bengals-Dan Connor, OLB-PSU
10) New Orleans Saints-Michael Jenkins, CB-South Florida
11) Buffalo Bills-Limas Sweed, WR-Texas
12) Denver Broncos-Early Doucet, WR-LSU
13) Carolina Panthers-Jonathan Stewart, RB-Oregon
14) Chicago Bears-James Laurinaitis, ILB-Ohio State
15) Detroit Lions-Derrick Harvey, DE-Florida
16) Arizona Cardinals-Ryan Clady, T-Boise State
17) Minnesota Vikings-DeSean Jackson, WR-California
18) Houston Texans-Malcolm Kelly, WR-Oklahoma
19) Philadelphia Eagles-Vernon Gholston, DE-Ohio State
20) Tampa Bay Buccaneers-Andre Woodson, QB-Kentucky
21) Washington Redskins-Jeff Otah, T-Pittsburgh
22) Dallas Cowboys-Sam Baker, T-USC
23) Pittsburgh Steelers-Michael Oher, T-Ole Miss
24) Tennessee Titans-Kenny Phillips, S-Miami
25) Seattle Seahawks-Felix Jones, RB-Arkansas
26) New York Giants-Malcolm Jenkins, CB-Ohio State
27) San Diego Chargers-Pat Sims, DT-Auburn
28) Jacksonville Jaguars-Calais Campbell, DE-Miami
29) Green Bay Packers-Aqib Talib, CB-Kansas
30) San Francisco 49ers (from Indy)-James Hardy, WR-Indiana
31) Dallas Cowboys-Rashard Mendenhall, RB-Illinois
32) New England Patriots-Forfeited
From a need perspective, I’d much rather see the Cowboys take a CB and WR in the first, as they’d be more likely to see significant playing time than an offensive lineman or RB. But best available is the way to go.
Draft King (1/15)
1. Miami Dolphins – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
2. St. Louis Rams – Jake Long, OT, Michigan
3. Oakland Raiders – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
4. Atlanta Falcons – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
5. Kansas City Chiefs – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
6. New York Jets – Chris Long, DE, Virginia
7. New England Patriots (from 49ers) – Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
8. Baltimore Ravens – Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
9. Cincinnati Bengals – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
10. New Orleans Saints – Mike Jenkins, CB, USF
11. Buffalo Bills – Dan Connor, LB, Penn State
12. Denver Broncos – Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami
13. Carolina Panthers – Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
14. Chicago Bears – Andre Woodson, QB, Kentucky
15. Detroit Lions – Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State
16. Arizona Cardinals – Keith Rivers, LB, USC
17. Minnesota Vikings – Quentin Groves, DE/OLB, Auburn
18. Houston Texans – Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon °
19. Philadelphia Eagles – Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
21. Washington Redskins – Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida
22. Dallas Cowboys (from Cleveland) – DeSean Jackson, WR, Cal
DeSean Jackson is an enigma; trying to predict where he will go is a challenging thing. Jackson had a great performance (after sitting out for the first quarter due to a rule violation) in Cal’s comeback win over Air Force in the Armed Forces Bowl, which should boost his stock. He waited until literally the final day to decide to go pro.
At 6’0″ 180, he has decent height, but not the bulk that some other receivers in the draft bring to the table. What sets Jackson apart is his blazing speed. If he can really run a 4.35ish 40 at the combine, he could end up similar to Ted Ginn, Jr. last year as a surprise top ten pick. If Jerry Jones is looking for a kick return boost, he’d sure land that in Jackson.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers – Sam Baker, OT, USC
24. Tennessee Titans – Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
25. Seattle Seahawks – Fred Davis, TE, USC
26. New York Giants – Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
27. Jacksonville Jaguars – Reggie Smith, CB, Oklahoma
28. San Diego Chargers – Ali Highsmith, OLB, LSU
29. Dallas Cowboys – Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
Jones has been overlooked by many due to the presence of Darren McFadden, but should Bobby Petrino be unable to talk him into staying for his senior year, he could end up being a first round pick. He would be a particularly nice fit for the Cowboys, who are likely going to lose Julius Jones to free agency but have Marion Barber, III under contract.
While Barber is a bruiser, Jones would be a great contrast, given that he’s 6’0″, 200 pounds and runs a sub-4.4 40. Felix Jones has feature back ability, and he would be a great pickup by the Cowboys.
While the Cowboys may also look to add depth in the secondary and should have their choice from a number of good RBs in rounds two and three, a talent like Jones (or Rashard Mendenhall) at this spot in the draft may be too much to pass up.
30. San Francisco 49ers (from Indianapolis) – Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
31. Green Bay Packers – Terrell Thomas, CB, USC
32. New England Patriots – FORFEITED
Walter Football (1/16):
1. Miami Dolphins: Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
2.St. Louis Rams: Jake Long, OT, Michigan
3. Atlanta Falcons: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College
4. Oakland Raiders: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State
6.New York Jets: Chris Long, DE, Virginia
7. New England Patriots: Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
8. Baltimore Ravens: Andre’ Woodson, QB, Kentucky
9. Cincinnati Bengals: Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
10. New Orleans Saints: Kenny Phillips, FS, Miami
11. Buffalo Bills: Keith Rivers, OLB, USC
12. Denver Broncos: Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
13. Carolina Panthers: Sam Baker, OT, USC
14. Chicago Bears: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
15. Detroit Lions: Dan Connor, OLB/MLB, Penn State
16. Arizona Cardinals: Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas
17. Minnesota Vikings: Quentin Groves, DE, Auburn
18. Houston Texans: Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
19. Philadelphia Eagles: Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DeSean Jackson, WR/PR, California
22. Washington Redskins: Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
22. Dallas Cowboys: Reggie Smith, CB/S, Oklahoma
This pick is from Cleveland. Terence Newman and Anthony Henry aren’t exactly young. Newman will be 30 in September 2008, while Henry doesn’t have many productive seasons remaining in the NFL. Jacques Reeves sucks. [Exactly right. Newman was a first round pick (#5 overall) in 2003 but a CB's career tends to be short. -JHJ]
23. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
24. Tennessee Titans: Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
25. Seattle Seahawks: Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
26. New York Giants: Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy State
27. Jacksonville Jaguars: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami
28. San Diego Chargers: Frank Okam, NT, Texas
29. Dallas Cowboys: Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
It was rumored that Dallas was interested in Dwayne Jarrett in April, but Jerry Jones apparently liked Anthony Spencer a bit more. With Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn close to the end of their careers, the Cowboys would love to secure a top-notch wide out.
That said, if someone of Felix Jones’ caliber is available – which is plausible, given the depth at the running back position in this class – Dallas won’t be able to resist. Julius Jones likely won’t be back next year, and the Cowboys clearly don’t think Marion Barber can carry the load on his own; otherwise he’d be doing so already instead of starting his first game in the playoffs. [They should definitely draft best available and we need a second stud RB. All things equal, though, I'd like a corner and a wideout in this round. - JHJ]
30. San Francisco 49ers: Adarius Bowman, WR, Oklahoma State
31. Green Bay Packers: Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona
[32. New England: No pick. They're cheaters. - JHJ]
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Washington at Seattle-
Seattle is 34-7 since late 2002 at home. Therefore I predict Seattle 20 Washington 17
Jacksonville at Pittsburgh-
The Jaguars beat the Steelers this year at Heinz Field. Plus I think Pittsburgh isn’t as good as their record. They lost to the Jets, barely squeaked by Miami. Jacksonville 23, Pittsburgh 17.
NY Giants at Tampa Bay-
Tampa is home, they got the better defense and performing QB. I just have not been impressed by Eli Manning. Tampa Bay 24 New York 14.
Tennessee at San Diego-
Vince Young is questionable, San Diego is rolling after a slow start to begin the year. This is easy, San Diego 35, Tennessee 17
I was surprised yesterday when a friend e-mailed me that the Ravens were going to announce the firing of longtime coach Brian Billick.
Rick Maese writes “Firing Billick was Right Move”
In the beginning, the Ravens had no choice. Brian Billick was fresh off orchestrating an offensive miracle in Minnesota. He whisked into town, met with Ravens owner Art Modell and vice presidents David Modell and Ozzie Newsome at a downtown steakhouse, and before long, the opening passages of the most exciting chapter of the team’s young history were being written.
In the end, though, the Ravens again had no choice. For the better part of nine seasons, Billick had orchestrated an offensive disaster here in Baltimore. The crescendo — the 2007 season — was long and painful, and it ends today with the news that the Ravens are parting ways with the best coach the franchise has ever known.
It’s a bold move for team owner, Steve Bisciotti, but a move that he had to make. The slips, falls and missteps over the entirety of the 2007 season made it clear that Billick’s effectiveness in Baltimore had expired.
Without diminishing Billick’s accomplishments Maese writes that Billick’s “shelf-life” had expired. This is a sentiment I heard on a sports talk show last night.
Read those paragraphs again. Billick was hired after engineering “an offensive miracle” but in Baltimore he was in charge of “an offensive disaster.” Even in the Ravens Super Bowl year, the teams strength hasn’t been the offense during the Billick era. In 2000 it was defense and special teams that carried the Ravens to their one Super Bowl championship. I never quite understood how someone who had been known for his offensive acumen, never put together sustained offensive success as a head coach.
The Sun’s Ravens beat writer Jamison Hensley wrote Billick got one last win as coach, then lost his job
Several players said Billick lost the confidence of the locker room with his questionable play calling and stale message. According to two players, they were asked by some staff members – presumably prompted by Bisciotti – whether Billick had lost the team.
Bisciotti declined to discuss the reasons for his decision, saying it boiled down to a “gut feeling.” Newsome and team president Dick Cass recommended to Bisciotti that Billick be fired.
“I just changed my mind,” Bisciotti said. “I can’t explain to you how tough a decision it is. It’s the toughest decision I’ve ever had to make.”
Asked whether he had specifically told Billick earlier that he would return, Bisciotti said, “There were indications but no promises.”
Finally there are names being bandied about right now
The team is expected to focus its search on NFL coaches. Potential candidates could include Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett, former San Diego Chargers coach Marty Schottenheimer, former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Bill Cowher, New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, University of Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz and Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan.
Newsome said Ryan would be interviewed for the vacancy, and several players expressed support for him yesterday.
I assumed that Ryan would be the team’s first choice. If he doesn’t get the job in Baltimore, he’ll likely head elsewhere. Still on a talk show last night, Hensley said that based on Bisciotti’s statement, he figured that the team would be looking for a head coach from outside the organization.
The Raven website has reactions from Todd Heap and (likely retiring) Jonathan Ogden.
The biggest concern I have is that the problem wasn’t Billick but the talent. The team suffered a lot of injuries this year. Given that it’s an older team that’s a problem that’s not likely to go away. Firing Billick may solve one problem but it may fail to address a more significant one.
See James Joyner.
Crossposted on Soccer Dad.
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Soccer Dad linked with The billick enigma...
Well given the history the Ravens should get some satisfaction from last night’s performance.
The Ravens’ motivation for tomorrow night comes from the chance to end the New England Patriots’ perfect season, stop a franchise-worst five-game losing streak and make NFL history of their own.
If the 20-point-underdog Ravens beat the undefeated Patriots, it would mark the biggest upset in 33 years, at least by Las Vegas standards.
In recorded oddsmaker history, only one team has won an NFL game after being an underdog of at least 20 points. It occurred in 1974, when the San Diego Chargers upended the heavily favored Cincinnati Bengals, 20-17.
From ESPN’s play by play
3rd and 10 at BLT 39
(1:53) (No Huddle, Shotgun) T.Brady pass short left to K.Faulk ran ob at BLT 30 for 9 yards.
Timeout #2 by BLT at 01:48.
4th and 1 at BLT 30
(1:48) H.Evans up the middle to BLT 31 for -1 yards.
PENALTY on NE-R.Hochstein, False Start, 5 yards, enforced at BLT 30 – No Play.
4th and 6 at BLT 35
(1:48) (Shotgun) T.Brady scrambles up the middle to BLT 23 for 12 yards (R.Lewis).
PENALTY on BLT-S.Rolle, Illegal Contact, 5 yards, enforced at BLT 23.
1st and 10 at BLT 18
(1:38) (Shotgun) K.Faulk up the middle to BLT 13 for 5 yards (H.Ngata).
2nd and 5 at BLT 13 (1:06) (Shotgun) T.Brady pass incomplete short middle to W.Welker (R.Lewis).
3rd and 5 at BLT 13
(1:00) (No Huddle, Shotgun) T.Brady pass incomplete short left to W.Welker.
Timeout #2 by NE at 00:55.
4th and 5 at BLT 13
(:55) (Shotgun) T.Brady pass incomplete short middle to B.Watson.
PENALTY on BLT-J.Winborne, Defensive Holding, 5 yards, enforced at BLT 13 – No Play.
There were 3 4th down plays in that series that looked like the Ravens had successfully defended their lead.
The first play isn’t listed as a play, for it was “Timeout #2 by BLT.” The Ravens had successfully stopped the one yard run, but the timeout was called before the play started.
On the next play New England got called for a false start, so even though the Ravens again successfully defended the run, the play was done over. The five yard penalty actually helped the Patriots. (A few play earlier the Ravens had declined a penalty, choosing to let the Patriots burn a down instead.)
Finally the 4th and 5 pass to Watson was incomplete, only then a penalty was called on the Ravens, and again the Patriots were saved from a 4th down.
All that said, it was still one of the most exciting games I ever saw. Even the game ended with a perfect 52 yard pass to Mark Clayton. Unfortunately Clayton was at the New England 3 when he caught it after time ran out.
Perhaps the most significant point of the Baltimore Sun’s scouting report is this:
Ravens run offense vs. Patriots run defense
If the Ravens have any chance of winning, they need to control the ball with a commitment to the running game. The Patriots have allowed 4.1 yards a carry, which is 20th in the NFL. But few teams can exploit New England’s run defense because most fall behind so early, which explains why offenses average 21.2 attempts (second fewest in the league) against the Patriots. Ranked third in the NFL in rushing, Ravens running back Willis McGahee is averaging 82.7 yards a game. He has scored a touchdown in each of his past six games. Edge: Ravens
Indeed McGahee ran for 138 yards and helped the Ravens hold the ball (and keep it away from Tom Brady.) He regularly broke tackles and had some really nice gains.
Perhaps the most meaningless stat in the game is that New England only converted 2 of 12 third down opportunities. That’s true as far as it goes. But as demonstrated above penalties and an ill-timed time out call bailed them out in the fourth quarter. But before that their second quarter touchdown drive was also aided by Baltimore penalties.
The Ravens controlled enough of the game that they should have won. But they gave Tom Brady a few too many extra chances and he exploited them.
I didn’t learn my lesson from 2000, when I woke a Yankees fan son to watch Mariano Rivera save the win against the Diamondbacks. Last night I woke a Ravens fan son to see the end of the game, even if his older (and now wiser) brother reminded me “Diamondbacks.”
Deadspin hopes this will stop those last minute time outs before big plays.
Crossposted on Soccer Dad.
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Soccer Dad linked with At least they beat the spread...
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| Wednesday, November 28, 2007 |
ESPN has released their Power Rankings for Week 13 of the 2007 NFL season and, despite the AFC hype, two NFC teams are in the top three. The voting was done by ESPN writers John Clayton, Len Pasquarelli, Matt Mosley, Jeffri Chadiha and Mike Sando; Scouts Inc. Insiders Jeremy Green and Keith Kidd; and ESPN.com NFL senior editor Mike McAllister.
| 2007 Power Rankings: Week 13 |
| |
RK (LW) |
TEAM |
REC |
COMMENT |
 |
1 (1) |
Patriots |
11-0-0 |
Twenty different Patriots players have scored TDs this season. That equals or is more than the touchdown totals for 11 other teams this season. We know you never get tired of those kinds of comparisons, right? |
 |
2 (2) |
Cowboys |
10-1-0 |
Home-field advantage in the NFC likely is at stake Thursday, and the last thing the Cowboys want to do is play the NFC title game at Lambeau in January. But Wade Phillips has won a playoff game at Green Bay — as Atlanta’s D-coordinator in 2002. |
 |
3 (3) |
Packers |
10-1-0 |
Brett Favre has played five or more regular-season games against 18 different NFL teams — and his .286 winning percentage (2-5 record) vs. Dallas is his lowest. Add his 0-3 playoff record and Favre is batting .200 against the Cowboys. |
 |
4 (4) |
Colts |
9-2-0 |
The Colts, according to the Indy Star, have led or shared the lead in the AFC South for 90 of the 97 weeks since the division was formed in 2002. Beating the Jags on Sunday would likely add the rest of 2007 to that total. |
 |
5 (5) |
Jaguars |
8-3-0 |
The Jags are rolling into Sunday’s division showdown against Indy with a ton of confidence. "The guys are hungry," QB David Garrard told the Times-Union. "I’m sure everybody can feel this season is different." |
 |
6 (7) |
Steelers |
8-3-0 |
Shame on the Steelers organization for allowing their MNF game to be played on such poor field conditions. It wasn’t fair to the players, or the fans who invested time and money to watch the game. Either get it right or start using the artificial stuff. |
 |
7 (8) |
Browns |
7-4-0 |
The Browns are plus-2 in the giveaway/takeaway category. That may not mean much to you, but the Browns have finished on the plus side of turnover differential just once since 1993. |
 |
8 (9) |
Seahawks |
7-4-0 |
In three previous meetings against the Eagles, QB Matt Hasselbeck has been sacked 11 times (including a career-high seven back in 2001) and has a 58.8 passer rating, his lowest against any NFC team. So what’s the over/under for sacks this Sunday? |
 |
9 (10) |
Buccaneers |
7-4-0 |
You’ve heard of QB controversies, but with the backups? Jon Gruden isn’t revealing his hand on who will start against the Saints if No. 1 guy Jeff Garcia can’t play due to a back injury. The fans of Bruce Gradkowski and Luke McCown eagerly await. |
 |
10 (13) |
Chargers |
6-5-0 |
Of the eight division leaders, none has a worse road record this season than the Chargers’ 1-4 mark. With their next two games at KC and Tennessee, LT knows what must be done: "We’re going to have to find a way to win on the road." |
 |
11 (6) |
Giants |
7-4-0 |
Go ahead, blame Eli (and he deserves it). But don’t forget to blame the rest of the Giants for a wretched performance against the Vikings. After all, the defense allowed Minny QB Tarvaris Jackson to post a 139.2 passer rating. |
 |
12 (11) |
Titans |
6-5-0 |
On five drives against the Bengals, the Titans entered the red zone. Three times they had goal-to-go situations. And yet they couldn’t find the end zone. It’ll be one of their many regrets if they don’t make the playoffs. |
 |
13 (20) |
Saints |
5-6-0 |
The Saints have underachieved, but at least they have a meaningful December, starting with a key home game against NFC South leader Tampa Bay. "It doesn’t get any better than it’s about to get," QB Drew Brees told the Times-Picayune. |
 |
14 (12) |
Lions |
6-5-0 |
Reports have surfaced that owner William Clay Ford Sr. wants the coaching staff to increase the workload of rookie WR Calvin Johnson. On the flip side, head coach Rod Marinelli is demanding that Ford build a better-looking SUV. |
 |
15 (15) |
Eagles |
5-6-0 |
The question in Philly: Would Donovan McNabb had played better than A.J. Feeley did in nearly beating the Patriots? When healthy, McNabb’s still the main guy, but Andy Reid is adamant that nothing less than a fully healed McNabb will play. |
 |
16 (22) |
Bears |
5-6-0 |
So is running back Cedric Benson’s season-ending ankle injury a plus or minus for the rest of the season? Benson’s an underachiever, but it’s not like Adrian Peterson (Bears’ version) has run like Adrian Peterson (Vikes’ version) this season. |
 |
17 (14) |
Broncos |
5-6-0 |
Until Sunday, the Broncos’ special-teams play — after a dismal start — had recently been among the league’s best. Perhaps that improvement resulted in overconfidence. Ultimately, it just led to a harsh lesson: Don’t kick to Devin Hester. |
 |
18 (23) |
Vikings |
5-6-0 |
Earlier this month, the Vikings were blanked by Green Bay, 34-0, and dropped to 3-6. Hard to imagine now that they’re in the playoff race. A win on Sunday vs. Detroit (Adrian Peterson may be back) puts them in good shape. |
 |
19 (16) |
Cardinals |
5-6-0 |
Kurt Warner triggered the Greatest Show on Turf, yet he never threw for as many yards with those Rams offenses as he did Sunday against the 49ers. But his career-high 484 yards was overshadowed in the shocking way the Cards lost. |
 |
20 (18) |
Redskins |
5-6-0 |
FedEx Field will be an emotional place the next two games, as the Redskins and their fans deal with the tragic loss of Sean Taylor. Joe Gibbs will need to draw on all of his coaching experience to get his team prepared for the rest of this season. |
 |
21 (17) |
Texans |
5-6-0 |
No team has committed more turnovers; in fact, opponents have converted Houston’s 29 turnovers into 108 points. "There are a lot of things we can do to win, but turning the ball over ain’t one of them," OT Ephraim Salaam told the Chronicle. |
 |
22 (19) |
Bills |
5-6-0 |
The Bills’ offense is not one for steady drives, as just four TD drives this season have been 10 plays or longer. J.P. Losman just doesn’t seem like a good fit, which explains why the Bills are going back to Trent Edwards this week. |
 |
23 (26) |
Bengals |
4-7-0 |
Admit it — you’ve missed Ocho Cinco’s TD celebrations. Chad Johnson’s TV cameraman act opens up a whole new genre. Next time, let’s see him take a sideline reporter’s microphone and interview himself about his TD. Watch out, Rachel Nichols! |
 |
24 (21) |
Chiefs |
4-7-0 |
It has been 30 years since the Chiefs lost six home games in a single season at Arrowhead Stadium, but with a 2-4 home record, it could happen this year if they can’t beat the Chargers and Titans in December. |
 |
25 (24) |
Ravens |
4-7-0 |
The five-game losing streak is the longest in franchise history, and it figures to reach seven with games against the Patriots and Colts the next two weeks. Right now, not even the Dec. 16 game at Miami seems like a sure win. |
 |
26 (25) |
Panthers |
4-7-0 |
Panthers fans, frustrated by their team’s inability to win at home, are starting to stay away from Bank of America Stadium. That’s not good for the job security of coach John Fox and GM Marty Hurney, who are both on the hot seat. |
 |
27 (30) |
Raiders |
3-8-0 |
After beating the Chiefs in the season finale of 1999, the Raiders went 33-15 the next three years, culminating in a Super Bowl appearance. Will Sunday’s win at KC have the same impact? "Maybe this is our roll," DT Warren Sapp told the Tribune. |
 |
28 (31) |
49ers |
3-8-0 |
Let’s see … Ted Tollner arrives to assist with the offense. The 49ers then produce a season-high 374 yards in beating the Cards. Does A+B=C? Seems that way, but maybe not. "Ted was very uninvolved in the play-calling," QB Trent Dilfer said. |
 |
29 (28) |
Rams |
2-9-0 |
Gus Frerotte’s fumbled snap was a heartbreaker, but the Rams should never have let it come to that in losing to Seattle. The offense went into a shell after taking a 19-7 lead, failing to produce points on their final nine possessions. |
 |
30 (27) |
Falcons |
3-8-0 |
TE Alge Crumpler tells the J-C that "it just puzzles me that we can’t score points." But is it really puzzling that Atlanta’s averaging four points less than last season? Mike Vick’s absence accounts for at least that much, if not more. |
 |
31 (29) |
Jets |
2-9-0 |
If the Jets can’t beat the winless Dolphins this week, this season will likely end up as the team’s worst since the Rich Kotite days. And QB Kellen Clemens isn’t making much of a statement in his audition as the starter. |
 |
32 (32) |
Dolphins |
0-11-0 |
Hypothetical question: Could the Dolphins beat the Saskatchewan Roughriders, who won the Grey Cup on Sunday? It’d be tough, especially using those funky CFL rules. Of course, that wouldn’t faze Ricky Williams (2006 Argonauts). |
It’s hard to argue much with these rankings, even if they’re a bit too closely related to teams’ overall records. Presumably, some teams that had hot starts but have since faded (Giants, Steelers) and teams that have started poorly but have gotten better of late (Rams) should have rankings weighted to reflect the recent performance. There might also be a strength of schedule component, as some teams play in much more competitive divisions.
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