Scoring System for Fantasy

SCORING SYSTEM FOR CUSTOM YAHOO! LEAGUES (2009 Edition)

OFFENSE

25 yards of passing/10 yards rushing/ 20 yards receiving - 1 point
Touchdown or TD for short (passing, rushing or receiving) - 6 points
Turning the ball over (interception or lost fumble) - -2 points

KICKERS

After Jim Mora's comments about Olindo Mare they need their own separate area

Field Goals 0-19 Yards - 3 pts
Field Goals 20-29 Yards - 3 pts
Field Goals 30-39 Yards - 3 pts
Field Goals 40-49 Yards - 4 pts
Field Goals 50+ Yards - 5 pts
Point After Attempt Made - 1 pts

DEFENSE

Our one league combines/combined defense and special teams while the other does not (this was only during weeks 1-3).

Sacks - 1 point
Interceptions/recovering a fumble - 2 points
Safety - 2 points
Blocked kick - 2 points
Scoring a TD - 6 points
Points Allowed (PA for short, this has a ladder system for scoring)

• PA 0 points - 10 pts
• PA 1-6 points - 7 pts
• PA 7-13 points - 4 pts
• PA 14-20 points - 1 pt
• PA 21-27 points - 0 pts
• PA 28-34 points - -1 pt
• PA 35+ points - -4 pts

With the special teams included (weeks 1-3)

• 35 return yards - 1 point
• return TD - 6 points

(this was posted for a reference to fantasy awards so I no longer have that long piece in all my blogs about those)

NFL Power Rankings Week 4

After week 3 we are starting to see some teams emerge as great. 7 teams remain undefeated, 4 in the AFC and 3 in the NFC. Playoff teams from a year ago are 0-3 (Panthers, Titans and Dolphins) and considering their divisions are likely going to find themselves on the outside looking in come the end of the season. The Bungles are still shocking folks and clearly the Steelers have a huge target on their back. Needless to say the power rankings have some shaking up to do so lets get crackalackin'!

NFL Power Rankings

1. Baltimore Ravens (1, 3-0)

We are on top of the world...STILL! The police have been on the lookout for a murderer in downtown Baltimore. Apparently a group of men was murdered by another group of men at M&T Bank Stadium. It was televised and everything. Oh wait that was just a poor display of football by the Browns who, thanks to us, will name a new QB (possibly) this week. Oh what 4 interceptions will do to a team's confidence. Is Bernie Kosar coming out of retirement?

2. Indianapolis Colts (2, 3-0)

Peyton Manning not only destroyed the Cardinals, he also owned me in fantasy football. For that I am upset. If you are a Colts fan you are happy to see the offense clicking on all cylinders even with young players like Garcon and Brown. Coaching changes apparently didn't phase them. They're still an elite team.

3. New Orleans Saints (4, 3-0)

Apparently Brees is NOT going to throw 3 TDs no matter who they play. However if they can't score when they pass, Pierre Thomas & Reggie Bush are going to get you in the running game. Winning a tough game on the road in Buffalo and holding T.O. without a catch, impressive. Their D might be alright after all.

4. Minnesota Vikings (6, 3-0)

Favre showed me he could win them a game when Peterson wouldn't/couldn't be an option. That play to end the game was ridiculous and completely unfair to the Niners. Who else but Favre could have threaded the needle like that from 50 yards away into the back of the end zone (so nearly 60 yards) to a guy he just started practicing with this week? Certainly not Sage Rosenfels or Tarvaris Jackson.

5. New York Giants (7, 3-0)

Not only did they completely destroy the Bucs. They caused them to bench Leftwich for the following weeks game. That just means their D is nasty, posting their first shutout of the year of course helps spread that rumor. Manning is spreading it around, everyone is a target in the red zone. Plus Jacobs is trucking everyone. We'll see if they can keep this up.

6. New York Jets (8, 3-0)

Rex Ryan knows defense. His is the real deal. The Titans are a winless team due to a hard schedule not because they are a terrible team. So its not completely crazy that they scored the first touchdown on the Jets. In other news, Mark Sanchez for Mayor of New York talk has begun. Well, not really.

7. Philadelphia Eagles (11, 2-1)

McNabb will be back in two weeks. Honestly Kevin Kolb looks fine so why rush? Apparently when they don't play the Saints their D is good. Anyone could have told you that. Desean Jackson and Brent Celek are having starts to their season that are warranting Pro Bowl talk.

8. New England Patriots (9, 2-1)

Apparently their offense looked like that of a few years ago when they won Super Bowls. I'm not going to crown them that yet, its a long season. Brady was efficient and they won pretty easily against a strong Falcons team. They will be tested this week, we will see where they stand.

9. Atlanta Falcons (5, 2-1)

They didn't beat the Pats in New England. That is a tough task. The fact that Ryan threw no TDs (kills me in Fantasy) against a Pats D that has looked sub par at best the past two weeks is crazy. At least Turner ran well but so did the Pats. The D was worn out by Fred Taylor.

10. San Diego Chargers (10, 2-1)

Can't really move them up when they beat a team that they should have at home. After last week's tough loss they needed a victory heading into Pittsburgh next week. Hopefully they don't hurt Ben too bad since he's all booked up for Monday.

11. Pittsburgh Steelers (3, 1-2)

They fought hard and lost a tough game on the road, again. Cincy wanted this game more then them. A key drop in the end zone (big shock) by Sweed cost them. With that they might have had the game locked down. They have a big target on their chest and everyone is coming for them. Does anyone else think now is a good time for Big Ben to go host Monday Night Raw?

12. Chicago Bears (12, 2-1)

How do you let the Seahawks stay in a game without Matt Hasselback? I guess a win is a win but that was NOT impressive. How has Matt Forte not found the end zone yet?

13. Denver Broncos (26, 3-0)

I'm not completely sold on this team. They haven't beaten a good team yet (minus that fluke play against the Bengals). After seeing Carson Palmer shred the Steelers maybe their defense has improved. Shutting down the Raiders impresses no one. Orton has yet to turn the ball over and apparently all he does is win.

14. Green Bay Packers (15, 2-1)

Their only win I'm sold on is beating Chicago. Rodgers can clearly own a TERRIBLE defense, his stat line this week was ridiculous against the Rams. We'll see if his arm can do the talking on MNF against the Vikes. Favre VS Rodgers, IT'S ON!

15. San Francisco 49ers (19, 2-1)

Gore was out 99% of the game and they still almost pulled out a win. They were one "Favreian Comeback" away from winning that game. The defense is for real, Willis is a definite beast at MLB and considering Coffee (their backup RB) had a great preseason, scoop him up now Gore fantasy owners, they shouldn't miss TOO much on the offensive side of the ball. They are going to run the ball until it hurts (preferably not their star RB though).

16. Dallas Cowboys (13, 2-1)

How can they drop even though they won? That first half hurt to watch. Losing Felix Jones yet again(injured 3 times while only playing in 6 NFL games) doesn't help a hobbling backfield. They should have had that game in the bag by half time. There is no way they catch up to the G-Men or the Eagles in their own division.

17. Cincinnati Bengals (27, 2-1)

Did they just, no way, last second comeback to beat the defending Super Bowl champs? I'm sorry Merril, maybe I was wrong about these Bengals. D isn't looking bad, not Marvin Lewis worthy but not bad. Carson Palmer is in some kind of zone.

18. Tennessee Titans (17, 0-3)

The only 0-3 team I am concerned about. If they want the playoffs they are going to need to turn this around fast. In their division they can't go 0-4. Who would have thought they would be the worst team in their division at this point in the season? Not me!

19. Houston Texans (16, 1-2)

This week they remind us why people jumped off their bandwagon. Defense is vulnerable against...everything. Unfortunately they face a factor back 6 games out of the year so they are in trouble if they don't figure this out. Slaton needs to get going so the offense can eat up some clock to rest the defense.

20. Arizona Cardinals (14, 1-2)

Did you know they could get completely owned by the Colts? I mean the game was never close and they couldn't even run on them. Probably since they were down big early. If they want to keep up with the Niners they need to pick it up and win some games.

21. Buffalo Bills (21, 1-2)

Their D is still looking good, if you consider only giving up 27 to the Saints good(I do). They held Drew Brees without a TD pass, that is a rarity. Rushing defense, not so much. On the other side of the ball T.O. was held catchless for the first time in 185 games and says reporters instigated him to make negative comments about his teammates. Way to go Owens, blame the media!

22. Seattle Seahawks (20, 1-2)

Seneca Wallace looked okay, I mean he is no Hasselback but he will do. T.J. Houshmanzadeh on the other hand, not so much. It says more about Chicago that this game was kept so close considering the 'Hawks were without their starting QB.

23. Jacksonville Jaguars (25, 1-2)

MJD activated beast mode against the Texans! HOORAY FOR MY FANTASY BENEFIT! When they aren't behind early they can actually run the ball. Then again, who can't run the ball on the Texans? I don't see them running too well on the Titans next week.

24. Carolina Panthers (22, 0-3)

The D CAN blitz. Who knew? Considering they only had done it 9 times the first two weeks combined. They had done that by the first quarter on Monday night. How do you not get any turnovers against the Cowboys? Delhomme's INTs aren't solely on him, Smith and Mohammed gave up on those routes. Also, didn't this used to be a running team? They can't run the ball 16 times and expect to win.

25. Detroit Lions (31, 1-2)

Good job guys you won a game. If you win one next week that is two in a row. Win again and that is called a winning streak, it has happened before. Offense is looking good, defense made some key stops. Hopefully they don't go 21 more months until they win again.

26. Miami Dolphins (18, 0-3)

They lost Chad Pennington for the season (possibly) and are replacing him with Tyler Thigpen(recent trade). Add to that they have the hardest schedule in the league this year and what do you get? A losing season.

27. Kansas City Chiefs (29, 0-3)

They looked better then last week but still look awful. So far their best game of the season was without Cassel under center.

28. Oakland Raiders (24, 1-2)

Defense is terrible against the run, offense is awful (how/why did this team cut Jeff Garcia). Without an offense they only have one part of the puzzle to win.

29. Washington Redskins (23, 1-2)

When you end a 21 month, 19 game losing streak and stimulate the area of Detroit...you deserve to drop. Redskin fans, do you know whats wrong with talking up your team before the season? Uh...TIMING!

30. St. Louis Rams (32, 0-3)

Want to improve your offense? Start Kyle Boller. No seriously. He has more TD passes then Bulger. Steven Jackson also has yet to find the end zone. Is anyone looking forward to the Nov. 1 meeting with the Lions? Rams fans are, they have no chance to win a game before then.

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (28, 0-3)

This team is falling to pieces. My guess is that this won't be the last time there is a QB change. Prediction, Josh Freeman is starting by week 10. Prediction for Freeman, pain.

32. Cleveland Browns (30, 0-3)

Time for a QB CONTROVERSYYYY! Honestly it doesn't matter. Remember when the Ravens were upset they didn't get Brady Quinn? Me neither.

Dare to compare mine to those at ESPN. Hopefully the Ravens can go for the trifecta of 3 weeks straight at number 1! We shall see, at 1PM on Sunday in Foxboro. Check it out and I will see you here next week! http://espn.go.com/nfl/powerrankings?year=2009&week=4

Fantasy Football Awards Week 2

For those of you who follow the blog my love for fantasy football is on display on a regular. Currently I belong to three leagues, two of which I am the commish. Hope the readers enjoyed the first edition, now its time for...THE SEQUEL. As the familiars might now, two awards will not appear in this article to save the identities of those who had their hearts broken in our nailbiter of the week or for those who suffered the biggest beatdown of the week,whoever played against Chris Johnson AND Frank Gore.

Scoring System(if you are familiar with the scoring then skip to the awards...its okay I won't tell)

The league's I run are on Yahoo! and use custom scoring. For offensive players the scoring is as follows 1 point for 25 yards of passing/10 yards rushing/ 20 yards receiving, 6 points per TD(rushing or passing) and -2 for turning the ball over (interception or lost fumble). Kickers also get points however they will never appear on this list unless they kick like 7 field goals. Points vary for them depending on the distance of the field goals they make. The defense on the other hand, as long as they play Jake Delhomme, can appear on here. Our one league combines defense and special teams while the other does not. Sacks (1 point), interceptions/recovering a fumble (2 points), safety (2 points), block kick(2 points), getting a touchdown (6 points) and points allowed (PA for short, this has a ladder system for scoring with 0 points getting 10 points, 1-6 points getting 7 points, 7-13 gets 4 points, 14-20 gets 1 point, 21-27 equals 0 points, 28-34 results in losing 1, 35+ not only means your team defense is awful (which they are) but they made you lose 4 points. With the special teams included we receive a point for 35 return yards and 6 points per TD. Basically if anyone scores a TD you are getting 6 points. So moving on to the awards.

Week 2 Fantasy Football Rewards

No one should be surprised by my choke artist of the week.Since there is no "I" in team, it's hard to blame an entire team for a loss. That is why you have to give it to half of the team that played like garbage. Great against the run, terrible against the pass. Ladies and Gentleman, your...

CHOKE ARTIST OF THE WEEK

Tennessee Defense(100% owned in Fantasy Football/Real Football, 94% started in Yahoo!)

If you were lucky you got credit for their return yards and got 3 points. Most of us didn't and lost at least 1 point (34 PA, 161 return yards)

Clearly this is a popular defense with a lot of people. Probably due to their opponents (Texans) people thought why not. People that are very unhappy after their performance this week. I can feel your pain, at least a little. The league I owned them in I also had Frank Gore. That doesn't excuse the Titans for a sad performance.

NOTABLE PERFORMANCE OF THE WEEK

So this award goes to a team/player who does really well just not as well as the MVP of the week. In most cases its a surprise that they did so well. For example, Tom Brady (or Kerry Collins, 16 points respectively, no seriously it happened) was limited to single digits while starting, this guy put up 30+ points in every league, most likely, on your bench.

Matt Schaub 38 points (357 yds passing, 4 TDs, 33% Start in Yahoo!)

Andre Johnson owners rejoice and laugh at those of us who still own Steve Slaton (what a slump). Schaub owners who played him enjoyed a beast mode game from a late round pick that they got to match up with Johnson. It is thanks to him that Tennessee lost that game. They couldn't stop a passing play. Unlike with the choke artist of the week, I can feel no empathy for anyone. I'm not monster of course I sympathize with you.

Frank Gore with 33 points needs an honorable mention. He did own the Seahawks this week.

MOST VALUABLE PLAYER

O.D.B. would say that this guy, "gets Psycho killerrrrrr Norman Bates!" O.D.B. further explained the MVP would ask, "How you like me now? You wanna get yo' teeth knocked the f.." Gotta stop you there, this is a family show.

Chris Johnson 41 points (197 rush yards, 2 TDs; 87 rec yds, 1 TD)

What is even more impressive is he did this with limited touches. It now has Lendale White owners asking when they can get some love? Johnson is explosive, once out in the open field he broke tackles and burned people down the sideline for his scores. This part of their offense was nonexistent in Pittsburgh for obvious reasons. Many Johnson owners were more then excited to see him go off. My question remains...WHEN WILL MJD DO IT?!? *head explodes*

Sorry I get a little emotional about my own players. Especially ones that I predicted would play well and hasn't done so yet. Do it MJD! Don't make a fool out of me!

So there you have it folks. Those of you who I am in the leagues with congrats to the owners who have these players. For the others, thanks for checking out the blog. Think there should be another player on here instead of those listed? Want to make fun of me for my obsession with fantasy football? Go ahead in the comments below. Until we BS again.

NFL Power Rankings - Week 3

So what an interesting week. A team that started 10-0 a season ago (Titans) is now in the hole at 0-2. The top tier teams are losing, the world is turned upside down. The Bengals won AT Lambeau? No seriously. Needless to say the power rankings have some shaking up to do so lets get crackalackin'!

NFL Power Rankings

1. Baltimore Ravens (4)

We are on top of the world! Its like someone tried to run up the middle on 4th down and Ray Ray knocked him back 2 yards. We found an offense, now if we could only have a corner shut someone down. That TD to V-Jack into triple coverage SHOULD NOT have happened. Let's enjoy the free world looking up at us while it lasts.

2. Indianapolis Colts (7)

Only a Manning can have the ball for 14 minutes and 53 seconds and win. That was a statement win. The Dolphins did everything they were supposed to and lost. Somewhere Dan Marino is crying.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers (1)

They fought hard and lost a tough game on the road. Chicago attacked where Polamalu wasn't. This could be a problem if other teams do the same thing.

4. New Orleans Saints (14)

I am calling it right now, if the team stays healthy, they will break the scoring record. It doesn't matter who they play Brees is going to throw 3 TDs. They are going to put 30 up on you, outscore them...OR PERISH!


5. Atlanta Falcons (5)

They have played two playoff teams from a year ago. The problem is they are Carolina and Miami. Two teams people think are going to miss the playoffs this season. Plus they let Delhomme back into the game and the Panthers played like they don't suck. Turner got the ball moving from the backfield.

6. Minnesota Vikings (6)

They haven't showed me anything new. They have played two awful teams and made me nervous against the Lions (since I picked them in my survivor league). The schedule will get tough eventually and I have to ask how they will respond.

7. New York Giants (11)

The Jets D is better but Eli is leading this team. He trounces Sanchez...for now. They came back to win against the 'Boys in their house. I never should have disrespected them by having them so low. This receiving core is great. Manning to Manningham, its got a nice ring to it.

8. New York Jets (19)

Rex Ryan isn't here to kiss Bill Belichick's rings. His defense also doesn't allow touchdowns. Add that to a potent running game and you have a pretty nice security blanket for that rookie quarterback of yours Rex. Rex Ryan STILL owns my soul.

9. New England Patriots (2)

Something is not right in New England. Brady is going to need a game or two to get all the rust out of his system. The defense could actually, oh I don't know, stop someone?

10. San Diego Chargers (3)

How do you call that running play on 4th and 2 Norv? Ray Lewis' hit ended the game and knocked them down the stairs to this spot. Rivers can't do it all by himself. At least not against high quality opponents.

11. Philadelphia Eagles (7)

Without McNabb this team can't hang with the Juggernaut that is the New Orleans Saints. Unfortunately Philadelphia got hit with their own pimp (if you don't get the reference I feel sorry for you). I assume Brees and company are going to do that against EVERYONE!

12. Chicago Bears (13)

That was the teams first win without Urlacher EVER! To be honest the D didn't look bad either. When Cutler doesn't turn the ball over this team could be dangerous. That is a big if.

13. Dallas Cowboys (9)

Jerry Jones charged people to stand outside to watch the game on Sunday night. Probably would have been more satisfied staying home. Tony Romo can't turn the ball over and expect this team to win. Also Marion Barber pulling up lame late in the game has me a little worried. The team itself is deep at running back so they should be fine. What a way to open and close a stadium Cowboys.

14. Arizona Cardinals (15)

Did you know they could win on the east coast? I mean 2-1 in the past three, its that 1 that scares me. Win the offense is clicking they are tough to stop. When they get to 100% health wise they are going to be impossible to stop.

15. Green Bay Packers (10)

Okay so their D was either lucky in week 1 or Carson Palmer has arrived. Losing in Lambeau this early isn't too bad (it is when it is against the Bengals) but if Rodgers loses a game in that building in December he is going to need to run for the hills.

16. Houston Texans (20)

This week they remind us why people jumped on their bandwagon. Defense didn't impress, as long as they don't face Chris Johnson every week their games shouldn't have that kind of drama. That is if Slaton ever gets going in the running game.

17. Tennessee Titans (12)

So did everyone get the memo. In case you haven't...

Dear NFL,

You can't run on the Titans. It's just impossible. There is this thing called a go route that they can't cover. Actually they can't cover any pass plays. So pass and you are set. But stop that Johnson kid.

Sincerely,

Andre Johnson and the Houston Texans offense

18. Miami Dolphins (17)

They played well, had nearly 4x the rushing yards then the Colts and had the ball for 45 minutes plus. Then lose?!? Any other team and that would have been a win. Peyton just owns your soul fellas.

19. San Francisco 49ers (22)

GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! GORE! 16 (go ahead count them) carries is all he needed for 207 yards and 2 TDs. Defense is looking sharp, weren't tested too much after Hasselback left.

20. Seattle Seahawks (16)

Hasselback carted off early. If he is seriously hurt, it has been reported that he has a cracked rib, like last season with his back expect a repeat of last season. The defense didn't do bad against Gore at all. The two big, huge, gigantic, career long plays were the only times he was out of control. Without those two mistakes they could be higher but Hasselback's status keeps them down.

21. Buffalo Bills (25)

Edwards proved he could go deep. On the first pass of the game. Giving a TD to T.O. will quiet him a bit, until next week. Defense still looking good. Decent against the run, not bad against the pass. AFC East is going to be fun the watch.

22. Carolina Panthers (18)

Delhomme was better. Their D is clearly vulnerable. They did keep it close with the Falcons which is kind of like a morale booster after that disgraceful performance last week.

23. Washington Redskins (24)

Their offense looked awful against the Rams. THE RAMS! However I can't mock them. Or can I? No wait I did when I said they looked AWFUL against the RAMS! "They won though!" Hey, they moved up!

24. Oakland Raiders (27)

Run DMC ran the ball okay, I mean he did score. The team itself had no passing game. That is going to need to get better. This defense could take them a lot of places.

25. Jacksonville Jaguars (21)

MJD can't be used to his full potential if the team is down early. They showed they can have a passing game when they need it. Still need to use their best weapon more often...and no, not just for my fantasy football benefit (but that would help).

26. Denver Broncos (28)

Sometimes you beat an awful team. Sometimes you smash them into the ground. Sometimes the team you beat actually looks good on the road. Other times you still aren't very good.

27. Cincinnati Bengals (30)

Ochocinco got to do his leap. Carson brought the team back in Lambeau. The defense still looks awful. They won at Lambeau, that says something about this team.

28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (26)

The line needs to protect Leftwich if they want to win a game this season. The running game is too good not to be used, kinda hard to do when you are down two scores early.

29. Kansas City Chiefs (23)

So with Cassel wasn't better then what I saw a week ago. Guess it shows Oakland's D might be decent. I never thought I would say that the offense was going to be the problem with this team at the beginning of the season. I guess it takes time to build a little rapport with your receiver.

30. Cleveland Browns (29)

So they made the Denver Broncos defense look good. That takes a lot of skill...or lack there of. So Imagine how great they will make the Ravens look. Fingers crossed.


31. Detroit Lions (31)

Okay so they made the game against the Vikes interesting for a minute there. No moral victories any more. This team needs a W and they need one now.

32. St. Louis Rams (32)

Okay so the defense shut down a sub par offense. Their offense however...yuck. Well at least they scored their first points of the season. Hooray for moral victory!


Dare to compare mine to those at ESPN. Ironically enough some are actually identical, including one that you might be shocked by. Check it out and I will see you here next week! http://espn.go.com/nfl/powerrankings?year=2009&week=3

Ray Lewis' Greatest Play of His Career?

Here, as a friend I owe this to you all..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0oUPACk8K8&feature=fvw

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0oUPACk8K8&feature=fvw#watch-main-area

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-game-highlights/09000d5d812ca5d9/NFL-GameDay-Ravens-vs-Chargers-highlights

You're welcome. That last video should refresh your memory of Ray Lewis' "greatest play" of his career. Personally I am not a fan of hearing that term from a player or anyone related to football. I mean most recently John Madden was heard calling the "greatest Super Bowl" ever played, obviously two months later he is out. Favre does this every offseason. Two years ago it was his "greatest season," and he was one game away from the Super Bowl. Indecisiveness, patience, mixed signals, comeback demanding for trade, and got traded. Then last season it was the "greatest meltdown" ever of Favre's career. More of the same ensues. I digress, this isn't a story about an old man who can't decide what new fangled TV to get(sorry older folks), this is about Ray Lewis.

Not that I think this is going to be Lewis' last season, so I hope. Somehow if it happens I know my friends will blame me for it (sorry guys). But, Antoine, I can guarantee your argument will be irrelevant. Just makes me a little nervous, that's all.

Also I just don't enjoy this term being thrown around so lightly. Whether its best all around player, play, pass, run, linebacker, third baseman, shortstop, quarterback, running back, shooting guar(almost had me, uh Jordan!), those of you who know me know that 999,999 times out of 1,000,000 I can't just name one player. I will say that Ray Lewis is one of the greatest linebackers of this generation (honestly that is how you have to break it down). So if you don't like to hear/read someone wax poetic about Ray Lewis or the Ravens, turn away from the screen or just head to the comments section where you the mocking can commence.

Now for the rest of you let's just think about this for a second. I mean, that MVP moment was pretty awesome. Yeah you remember, when he owned the Giants in Baltimore's Super Bowl XXXV victory. Or when he owned Hall from the Titans last year? Him obliterating Kellen Winslow, Braylon Edwards and Eddie George (completely taking away his manhood, changed his career FOREVER!)? Well the answer should be yes since some of those hits were in the videos above. There are millions of Ray Lewis "hit lists" and one collaboration with Ed Reed as well.

Now the term future Hall of Famer has been thrown at Ray Lewis, it sticks. Is he one of the greatest middle linebackers in history? Definitely. Was he the base of this defense since he came here in the inaugural season? Oh yeah. Has he assisted several defensive staff members in getting head coaching nods (Marvin Lewis, Mike Nolan, Jack Del Rio and Rex Ryan)? Just answered my own question there huh. Wasn't the BBQ at Full Moon Barbecue (his old restaurant) decent, especially the BBQ meat filled potatoes? I'm drooling right now thinking about it. Have I lost you completely on the constant questioning of Ray Lewis' awesomeness? I sure hope not. Ray Lewis is the player/coach/motivational speaker for the team. So when you hear greatest stop ever (it was awesome I'm not going to lie, in fact my reaction was to leap from the couch with an, "ohhhhhhhhhhhhhh YEAH!") you really have to think about a lot of punishment that this man has delivered in his past 14 seasons.

I can't even call it the greatest Ravens hit ever. That sack Bart Scott put on Roethlisberger a couple years ago is just tops for me. This so far (yeah I know week 2 but bare with me) is the play of the season. A tough win on the other coast has a lot of folks paying attention to us when they wanted to say we couldn't repeat and get into the playoffs. This win has made people second guess that decision. Probably about as much as Norv Turner is second guessing that run up the middle today.

Why Does Merril Hoge Hate Baltimore?

So I'm sitting on my big comfy brown couch engaging in my normal everyday morning ritual of watching Sportscenter when what do I see on the helpful sidebar index of the show? AFC playoff picks with Merril Hoge. In the segment Hoge is going to go over last year's playoff teams and "predict" who will make the playoffs. Of those teams that don't make it he will go over who will make it instead. A light bulb goes off in my head to do the same thing until I actually watched his analysis.

Readers in case you have forgotten who those playoff teams were last year from the AFC here is some help. The division winners were Miami Dolphins (East), Pittsburgh Steelers (North), Tennessee Titans (South) and the San Diego Chargers (West). Wild card teams were the Indianapolis Colts and, a team close to this writer's heart and home, the Baltimore Ravens.

By the title of the article you may have guessed which team Hoge decided would not make the playoffs. Along with the Miami Dolphins, who Hoge said is a good team but would not be able to do what they did last season in their division, he chose Baltimore to be hanging at home come January. This doesn't bother me until he gets to who will replace these teams. New England (duh!) is who he expects to take the East over the Dolphins and to take the other wild card spot, drum roll please, the pride of Ohio (not Ohio State but that team is honestly better then...), the Cincinnati Bengals.

WHAT?!? I mean Hoge has a pair to actually pick them but his analysis as to why the Ravens wouldn't make it was that our defense is getting old (Ray Lewis and Trevor Pryce are but we still have the Suggernaut and someone who can Reed a QB's eyes very well) and how much he likes Joe Flacco. Then he goes and picks the Bungles? Is it because they have their own show on HBO? Vinny Chase and the boys from Entourage are going to take the West? Well Hoge if you watched HBO previously you would know that The Wire is real!

Hoge likes the Bengals because they finished strong after starting the season 1-11-1 winning their final 3 games. I'm quoting Woody Paige when I say, "look at the schedule!" In their final 3 weeks the Bengals (without Palmer) played the Redskins, Browns and Chiefs. By my recollection those teams were awful last year. 8-8, 4-12 and 2-14 (all last place in their divisions) with the best team being beaten in Cincinnati. Their best offensive weapon in the games, ironically enough that was Cedric Benson, was playing against terrible rushing defenses and their best receiving weapon is on another coast in Seattle. I would say that Hoge is bleeding Steelers black and gold but he still went in the division. Whatever, hater in the house!

So I can't really mock the guy if I don't man up and make my own predictions. Like Hoge I wouldn't be surprised if the Steelers do repeat as champs. If they did we would have yet another dynasty for this millennium(3 titles in 4 years). So here goes, New England will win the East(as long as Brady doesn't get hurt again), Baltimore will split the season series with the Steelers and take the division(then probably lose to them in the playoffs), San Diego (will have the best record since they play 3 JV teams in their own division) will win the West and the Titans will take the South. Pittsburgh and Houston will be your wild card teams. Houston can be a playoff team as long as they get consistency, not injury, from Matt Schaub. The team went 8-8 however they finished 5-1 beating a playoff team in Tennessee, not just crappy teams. They have enough young talent, Slaton ran all over the Colts and Jags last season, and Andre Johnson entered beast mode last year leading the league in receiving yards. Excellent compliments in Kevin Walter(WR) and Owen Daniels (TE) assist in Johnson getting a lot of those yards. The team has an up and coming defense with Mario Williams, obviously not a bust, owning offensive tackles on a regular.

So short list for you all, opening playoff weekend expect the Steelers @ Ravens and Texans @ Titans with the Chargers and Patriots with the bye. Think you are better then me? Go ahead and take a guess, man/woman up! Join me in the hate of Hoge Baltimoreans! Or just join me in the confusion of him picking the Bengals to make it to the playoffs. Since hate is such a strong word.

NFL Power Rankings - Week 1

In my first edition of NFL Power Rankings(about as pointless as the preseason AP poll in the NCAA), let's see how I do. In case you have never been fortunate enough to read one of these, odds are frequent ESPN.com addicts have, I will be ranking every team with a couple sentences of attached analysis. Since this is the first week I have also attached an over/under on wins for each team. Challenge me if you want, it could make this interesting. Hopefully all will go as planned and I will never have to change this thing, honestly that never happens. So here is my version of...

NFL Power Rankings

1. Pittsburgh Steelers (over/under 11 wins)

When you are the defending champs and your biggest loss was your third wideout (Nate Washington) odds are you will be atop everyone's list. Plus Big Ben is still their QB, all he does is win. Prediction: under

2. New England Patriots (over/under 12 wins)

I heard analysis that the team might be better then the team which went 18-NYG(New York Giants). Brady seems to be healthy but Brady to Moss 30 times, doubtful. Defense is the big question mark with them. Prediction: over

3. San Diego Chargers (over/under 11 wins)

Rivers, Gates, LT, Merriman, V. Jackson, Phillips, Williams...need I say more? They are going to be the class of the AFC West (that isn't saying much) but how could they not be. San Diego is always classy and they are going to stay that way. Prediction: Over

4. Baltimore Ravens (over/under 10 wins)

Biased you say, yes I say but hear/read me out. The team will go as far as Flacco and the defense will carry them. Yes Bart Scott is gone but we, like the Steelers, are deep at this position. Plus I like our offense with a side of Rice. Add that to the undefeated preseason, haven't done that since the Super Bowl...Festivus Maximus season in 2000. Prediction: over

5. Atlanta Falcons (over/under 11 wins)

Our first NFC team, for good reason. Matt Ryan is a year experienced and now has a perennial Hall of Fame TE in Tony Gonzalez to throw to. Add last year's 2nd ranked rushing attack and a decent defense, the A-T-L have something special. Prediction: Under

6. Minnesota Vikings (over/under 11 wins)

Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre Brett Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre Favre...oh and some guy named Adrian Peterson, I hear he's a monster. Add their great D (at least against the run) and they have a lot of people talking Super Bowl. Prediction: Under

7. Indianapolis Colts (over/under 10 wins)

With Peyton Manning at the helm I can't have this team drop too much lower, with a coaching change and the loss of Marvin Harrison, who knows how far they can go. Prediction: under

8. Philadelphia Eagles (over/under 10 wins)

Eagles fans, I spelled that right. I am pretty sure it goes E-A-G-L-E-S Eagles! The D will play with an emotional chip on their shoulder due to the loss of Jim Johnson, their defensive coordinator. McNabb has some weapons but the one thing that concerns me is Westbrook's health. Prediction: over

9. Carolina Panthers (over/under 10 wins)

Great running game, great O line, decent defense but its Delhomme who costs them a higher ranking. Also Julius Peppers hasn't looked so hot in the preseason, no wonder no one wanted him in the offseason. Prediction: under

10. Chicago Bears (over/under 9 wins)

When was the last time Chicago had a decent QB? I'm too young to remember, my grandfather is too young to remember. The team upgraded and got Jay Cutler in the offseason the only problem being no stellar wideouts. However, they do have Matt Forte. The defense needs to be better then they were last season or this team will be in trouble since Cutler will turn the ball over. Prediction: under

11. Tennessee Titans (over/under 10 wins)

Offensively they are the same, White and Johnson(whatever their nicknames) are going to run the ball...a lot. Can the defense replace Haynesworth and stop an upstart Texans team from moving up in their own division? The world may never know, at least not until Thursday night. Prediction: under

12. Arizona Cardinals (over/under 9 wins)

This one is a toss up. Honestly I don't even see them winning their division this season but they are going to pass the ball all day. Run the ball like 9 times a game and possibly make me eat my words later in the year. Besides they just lost the Super Bowl, how has that gone for other teams? Prediction: under

13. Dallas Cowboys (over/under 9 wins)

Their receiving core is a big question to me, can Roy Williams own like he used to 3 years ago? They are deep at RB with Barber and Jones plus their defense, or just Demarcus Ware, is going to punish opposing QBs. Prediction: over

14. Houston Texans (over/under 9 wins)

They finished the season strong the biggest issue is Schaub's health. Especially since their backups are Rex Grossman and Dan "Stepped Out of My Own Endzone" Orlovsky. Slaton and Johnson are beasts plus the defense is turning around. Sports Illustrated has them winning the division. We'll see. Prediction: over

15. Green Bay Packers (over/under 8 wins)

Aaron Rodgers is going to have an MVP like season. Unfortunately the team is going to finish third in the division. Good news for him though, he can try to show up Brett Favre...twice! Oh yeah! Ryan Grant being healthy (he was a monster for them when he was) will control where they finish in the division. Prediction: over

16. Miami Dolphins (over/under 9 wins)

Underrated you say? I mean they did win the division and help myself and Antoine make fun of our Pats fan buddy Marcel for them not making the playoffs...other than that...I got nothing. They really didn't make any crazy offseason moves. Getting Jason Taylor back will help strengthen the defense a little and throwing rookie Pat White out in the wildcat (draft him in fantasy the week they play the Patriots) will prove to be exciting. Prediction: under

17. New York Giants (over/under 9 wins)

Until I see how the receiving core performs the team will stay low. Great defense that is getting their best pass rusher back in Umenyiora and Brandon Jacobs surely will truck someone this season. Surely I can't be serious? Well I am serious and don't call me Shirley. Prediction: under

18. Seattle Seahawks (over/under 9 wins)

This team will win the dismal NFC West this year. Edgerrin James has a chip on his shoulder and hello this team should go all the way. They picked up T.J. Houshmanzadeh, championship! Prediction: WAY over

19. New Orleans Saints (over/under 8 wins)

They play in the hardest division in football and are kicking themselves for this whole Reggie Bust...I mean Bush not panning out. Without Drew Brees they would be so much lower then this. Saying everyone stays healthy on offense they could make things interesting. Prediction: under

20. Denver Broncos (over/under 7 wins)

Amidst all this drama is a semi decent offense with a supposed offensive mastermind as a head coach. If he is such a mastermind though, why would he upset his best player(s) causing him (Cutler) to be traded? Enjoy the show Broncos fans, I bet the owner misses the Shanahan days already. Prediction: under

21. Jacksonville Jaguars (over/under 7 wins)

Del Rio needs to win this year or he might be out. 64 calories of MJD(Maurice Jones Drew) will help but a struggling offensive line, subpar receiving core(sorry Torry Holt) and aging defense don't. Prediction: over

22. Cleveland Browns (over/under 6 wins)

They have no idea who the starting QB will be but rest assured that Braylon Edwards will drop whatever pass they throw to him. Unless its on Monday Night Football(unfortunately for me that will be against the Ravens). Prediction: under

23. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (over/under 6 wins)

New regime, no Derrick Brooks and a whole lot of new faces in the locker room. About week 10 we might be seeing Josh Freeman. Prove me wrong Bucs. I dare ya, I double dare ya! Prediction: under

24. Kansas City Chiefs (over/under 6 wins)

Matt Cassel is an upgrade, he will have fans screaming for somewhere over the Dwayne Bowe. However the defense is pretty much the same and last year the only thing they were good at was making Matt Cassel a full time starter. It feels like we have come full circle now! Prediction: under

25. Washington Redskins (over/under 7 wins)

You know maybe they are low or maybe they just aren't any good. I have a feeling unless Jason Campbell has a Drew Brees like season he is out as their starter. Dan Snyder will do whatever it takes (including overpay for Albert Haynesworth) to win. In his case its to lose. He should have spent some money on the offensive side of the ball since technically I have scored more this preseason then them. Prediction: over

26. New York Jets (over/under 5 wins)

J-E-T-S suck suck suck. Rookie QB and Rookie coach has a nice ring to it after last year. If Rex Ryan suits up against the Pats he will never be fired. EVER! Bart Scott prediction he, like so many other previous Ravens LBs who have flown the coop, will be subpar at best. Hopefully, since I actually like the guy, he won't injure himself like those before him. Prediction: over

27. Buffalo Bills (over/under 6 wins)

When T.O. realizes he is playing for Buffalo in about week 3 he is going to demand for a trade, mock the city of Buffalo and ask for Trent Edwards head on a stake. What will be a larger number? T.O. TDs or Bills wins? Is Marshawn Lynch arrest warrants a choice? Prediction: Under

28. Cincinnati Bengals (over/under 5 wins)

Carson Palmer is back and says he thinks someone will die in the NFL. If he isn't careful its going to be him. Run Carson! Run for your life! Although Chris Henry and Chad Ochocinco are looking like a decent tandem, the O line is horrible and they're the only team in the AFC North with a horrible defense. Go figure Marvin Lewis. Prediction: under

29. San Francisco 49ers (over/under 6 wins)

My childhood team is not what they used to be. Joe Montana could come out of retirement and be their best option behind center. Actually direct snap to Gore sounds like a good idea. Write that down Mike Singletary, he wants winners! Go get Montana and your set buddy. Prediction: Under

30. Oakland Raiders (over/under 6 wins)

How is this team not last? Kyle Boller has zero chance of starting any games for them, that's how. The defense shows up at times and if Darren McFadden will just stop getting hurt they might get something going this year. My bold prediction is they will have more wins then Heyward-Bey has TDs. Prediction: Over

31. St. Louis Rams (over/under 4 wins)

They picked up Kyle Boller in the offseason and Bulger could miss some time early in the season. Steven Jackson will have two games that make you say wow. Then he will have one game where he says "OW!" Missing the rest of the season. Prediction: Under

32. Detroit Lions (over/under 2 wins)

They have to win at least one game right? The team is still building although they do have a decent amount of young talent on the offensive side of the ball with Calvin "Megatron" Johnson(WR) and Kevin Smith(RB). Last year there were some close games and Smith is predicting playoffs this season. Really, playoffs? Playoffs? You kidding me! Playoffs?!?! Prediction: Over

So there you have it. If you want to compare mine with the guys at ESPN here is their preseason power rankings http://espn.go.com/nfl/powerrankings. Anyone who wants to challenge me in over/under just needs to shoot me an email or hit up the comments. These will be updated each week with new rankings after every game is played (probably Wednesdays). Until next time, thanks for bsing with BS!

5 Bands Who Deserve Their Own Version of Guitar Hero

No disrespect to Van Halen, who is going to be the next band to get their own Guitar Hero, but this is more about the Smash Hits version of the game. If Red Octane didn't want to dedicate a game to these bands I'm going to select one song that could go in for them. In some cases that was harder than others.

I am sure there will be an outrage for some of these but if you have a problem with the selections...make your own blog! Kidding folks, you know the deal, got something on your mind? Drop it in the comments. Now, in some particular order...

5 Bands Who Deserve Their Own Version of Guitar Hero

Led Zeppelin "Heartbreaker"

As I have begun to research this I am reading that Jimmy Page, the epic guitarist for the above mentioned band, will not sell out (in classic rocker form) to GH. He is strong arming both GH and Rock Band not allowing either to have the rights to their music. It hasn't stopped people from using the music studio to make up their own(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lv43Usi3b_k ) however its not the same. In fact people will make just about anything. Some don't even sound like the real thing. The one above is the actual track but another one I heard just made me yearn for the band to allow the songs to be in GH. In case some of you are completely clueless as to their work, here is a short list for you....

"Immigrant Song", "Dazed and Confused", "Kashmir"(P. Diddy knows how awesome this song is, he ruined it...I mean remixed it...seriously Page you let P. Diddy have it), "Rock and Roll", "Whole Lotta Love" (awesome guitar solo 3 minutes in), "Stairway to Heaven"(no Stairway...denied!), "Black Dog", "Moby Dick"(awesome drum solo), "Ramble On", "Livin Lovin Maid", "Achilles Last Stand", "Trampled Under Foot", "All My Love", "Communication Breakdown", "The Battle of Evermore" (Lord of the Rings geeks UNITE!) and oh god so many more. If you are still completely clueless then Youtube it up and search the band/song titles. Please Mr. Page, let them turn all your music into a game!

Green Day "Longview"

If I told you these guys have been around for nearly 20 years would you believe me? Well people you should because this band has been rocking out ever since their debut album Dookie. Just look at the tracklist on this album alone, nearly the whole thing could be on GH. There is "Longview", "Basket Case", "Burnout", "Welcome To Paradise", "When I Come Around", and "Chump" to name a few. Focusing on the main song out of the bunch, "Longview" has a bass line starting off the song that any fan of the genre knows. There is a problem with some of their songs being edited but we can look past that. An F bomb here and there can easily be dropped out(like it is on the radio). This isn't the only group of hits the band has. Looking at their other albums you can find a lot of other GH worthy songs like...

"American Idiot", "St. Jimmy", "Holiday", "Prosthetic", "Suffocate", "Nice Guys Finish Last", "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)", "Wake Me Up When September Ends", "Boulevard of Broken Dreams, "Know Your Enemy" and many more. Unfortunately I have not heard their new album but I am sure there is more then one worthy song from it(after a recent purchase there is). In addition to their music (like they have with all other band games) Red Octane could have some music from bands who inspired them or who they are fans of. It would be the most punked out GH ever. EVER! Also, for those Simpsons fans out there, get Green Day's version of the show's theme song (from The Simpsons Movie). Hard to mess up those lyrics right Billie Joe (lead singer for the clueless ones out there, its okay I forgive you)

DA DA DA DADA DA DA DADADADADA DA DA DA DA DA DA DA DA DA

Nirvana "School"

As much as my girlfriend who loves hair metal and all that 80's crap hates that this band ended all the fun in her favorite type of music("They killed it," she scoffed as she read this blog), she still appreciates their awesomeness. This is a much harder song than the previous one that was in the game. Now GH 5 is coming out with two songs from Nirvana however that is still not enough. Although they are one of only two bands who got two songs(Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers are the other) so that is pretty sweet. Their choices are some what obvious with "Smells Like Teen Spirit" and "Lithium" however, after an apparent 3 year dispute, the game has Kurt Cobain as a playable character. Anyway back to the point at hand. The band deserves their own game, I mean hello they helped start a new genre and make it popular.

Other than the above mentioned songs, if you peruse through their albums you will most definitely find at least 60 tracks that are dubbed worthy for GH. I will not bore the faithful (or unfaithful readers) with a huge list just a short selection. "Lake of Fire", "Dumb", "Pennyroyal Tea", "Rape Me" (even though the opening riff is similar to "Smells Like Teen Spirit" I digress), "Floyd the Barber" (sit down on my chair, don't be afraid), "Come As You Are", "Polly", "In Bloom", "You Know Your Right", "The Man Who Sold The World"(sorry its better than the Bowie version but hey GH Metallica didn't have the band's version of "Stone Cold Crazy" as opposed to Queen's version, still awesome by the way...moving on), "Imodium", "Scentless Apprentice", "Love Buzz", "Breed"(the opening is awesome), "Downer" (fast and short), "Territorial Pissings" (have you noticed I am into some hard, fast Nirvana), and holy crap so many many more. I do not pride myself on music knowledge so I am sure there are some songs that aren't on here that deserve to be. In no way should they be ignored so put some suggestions in the comments. Of course the drummer from this band formed another very worthy band of their own GH. Care to guess?

Foo Fighters "This is a Call"

Dave Grohl is just awesome, drums/guitar/bass/bongos/harmonica/spoons whatever the instrument he plays it and is great. This is one of the shocks to me that this song hasn't already appeared in a GH tracklist. Its one of their more played songs on the radio and, for lack of a better term, its awesome. All instruments are used well as for most/all of Foo. Mr. T was quoted as saying, "I Pity the foo!" I believe that this has something to do with the snubbing of their own GH. As much of their music that has been in GH we all know that it has to be in the works. They already have one of the more awesome songs with "Everlong" but there are just so many more. GH Metallica also had one that I wasn't familiar with "Stacked Actors"(I don't know everything...unless its fantasy football then I think all is known by me). So there are many that have been used (and if Red Octane can't find all they need then pilfer some Nirvana/grunge bands for some tunes) but here are a few others then the above mentioned that should be used.

This list like the above could go on forever "I'll Stick Around", "All My Life", "Times Like These", "Alone+Easy Target", "Good Grief"(awesome opening, very fast paced), " My Hero", "Weenie Beenie"(how can it lose, its got Beenie in it), "For All the Cows" (starts slow but speeds up in sections), "X-Static", "Generator"(yeah so what for like 3 seconds in the beginning it sounds like its a Bon Jovi song, just deal), "Overdrive", "Learn to Fly" (whatever it was in Rock Band so what), "Wattershed", "Low", "Disenchanted Lullaby" (slow songs are a part of GH, as long as they are still awesome...unless of course its GH Metallica, they didn't make a slow song), "Tired of You", "Breakout", "No Way Back" (from Madden fame, 2006 version), "In Your Honor", "Gimme Stitches", "Aurura", "Best of You", "Last Song", "DOA", "Hell" and many more (not just from the In Your Honor album I swear)

In addition to Nirvana how about some Queens of the Stone Age, their first album...with Grohl on drums and their original bassist (because his, the bassist, solo from "No One Knows" is freaking insane) and Queen could make another appearance since Grohl did help induct them into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (the one and only thing awesome in Cleveland). Hit me with some more suggestions if you think I completely bombed on something. I'm just saying the game makes itself people.

Black Sabbath "Children of the Grave"

This song is from their Sabbath Bloody Sabbath album(the whole album could be on GH) and it just oozes GH worthiness. The song has a great drum/bongo rhythm throughout that can easily get stuck in one's (my) head. As many can guess I am going to suggest that the game use Ozzy tunes as well. The band wasn't the same without Ozzy (Ronnie James Dio replaced him...yeah seriously look it up. Holy dive on that! Went/Go by Heaven & Hell whenever they tour with him at lead vocals, quote Michelle, "Dio sucks!") so why not include some of his more memorable tunes along with some classic Sabbath. The only song to don a GH game is "War Pigs" and rightfully so. The song is well known and, in the words of Peter Griffin, "freakin' sweet." For those who need some OZ-ucation (no not the old prison show from HBO, its a great show but not what we are talking about) here are some suggestions for GH immortality.

"Iron Man" (unleash your inner Beavis and/or Butthead), "Paranoid" (sampled in the great SNES game Rock and Roll Racing), "The Wizard" (anyone for Harmonica Hero), "If I Close My Eyes Forever" (Ozzy doing a duet with Lita Ford, stellar combo), "Hellraiser" (GTA fans UNITE! Oh so many hookers and innocent bystanders perished to that song on the streets of San Andreas), "No More Tears", "Black Sabbath", "Over the Mountain", "Miracle Man", "Flying High Again", "I Don't Know", "Mr. Tinkertrain", "Mama, I'm Coming Home", "Perry Mason", "Bloodpath in Paradise", "Shot in the Dark", "Tattoed Dancer" (then you can be his little tattoed rock and roll dancer to), "Sweet Leaf" and so many more that my little mind can't handle.

So there you have it. 5 bands that deserve their own GH. Some that didn't quite make the cut were Motley Crue (I'm not in love with a stripper so I just couldn't pick them), The Who (they already have their own Rock Band pack) and AC/DC (same reason as The Who). If you want to yell at me for not picking your favorite band (no Antoine Good Charlotte does NOT deserve their own GH) then let me read about it in the comments. Until we read again....