Five Reasons...to Keep Watching Ravens Games

Before any of you try to give me a hard time about not hating in a long time think about this. How hard is it to hate on anyone when you are trying SO hard to figure out what you like about your crapfest of a team? I have an answer for you, pretty damn hard. Now I could easily have complained about the Rams, Dolphins or this week's fabulous opponent the Chiefs but no. I can't do it. Baltimore won't let me.

It has come to my attention that because we are terrible many "fans" have decided to tune out, not giving one iota about this team. That to me is a problem. If you are a "fan" I believe you stick through thick and thin. This season is pretty damn thin, Calista Flockhart thin. So I think some of us need to remember the reason why we should keep tuning in.

1) Duh, football season is only 4-5 months out of the year

The same people that are bitching that they won't watch Ravens games anymore this year, who have sold the remainder of their season tickets and who are probably communists (that last part may or may not be true) are going to be the same ones bitching there is no football until August come March. No one can have it both ways. I mean, do what most fans do. Bandwagon hop. Just stay the hell off social media ya poser! We know you haven't been a Panther fan since '99 and don't gimme that AFC/NFC team bullshit. I don't want to hear it. I'm just saying, want a better viewing experience? Watch anyone else in the division races UNLESS, they are in the NFC East.

2) Jarvaihudflkjahl Allen

Point being, stop trying to say his first name. You couldn't even say Ngata right commentators, you damn sure aren't saying Javorius correctly. Call him Buck, we in Baltimore are huge fans of Buck.

Shit, wrong one. Either way, we here are interested to see how both of them are going to do. Allen has shown that he can in fact be productive out of the backfield and possibly could give Forsett a run for the starting job. Taliaferro has been injury prone in his short career and it is clear (so far) that Allen is more dynamic out of the backfield as a receiver than he is. While Allen has yet to clear the 100 yard rushing mark he did drop a 100+ yards receiving against the Browns. Yes I know, they are terrible but he still did it! We need to figure out what we have back there because we really don't have any solid players at the running back position who have proven to be a dominant force for more than one season.

3) K.O. is LT

Okay, I promise not to bash Eugene Monroe too much in this section. I mean, if I do he might be out all of next season with damaged pride and low self esteem. Since coming to Baltimore, Monroe has been lackluster and injured. Not a good combination. Osemele, on the other hand, has been very productive as a guard and is going to be a free agent in the offseason. With the Ravens extending Yanda they can't put all that money towards the guard position. However, if Osemele dominates as a left tackle they can make it rain in his general direction. They threw him right into the wolves this past week with Seattle and it isn't like its going to get better moving forward. Chiefs, Steelers and Bengals all have an impressive pass rush that should really test whether or not Osemele can achieve man among bitches status. For our sake, let's hope he does.

4) Flaccups?

Honestly, this hurts to watch on Sunday. However, as fans we have to wonder who will be there to backup Flacco if this knee injury prolongs the start to his 2016 season. Add to the equation massive whiny pants Ryan Mallett  who has led the league in complaining (a technique he learned in New England I'm sure) this season. Both Schaub and Claussen have been seen taking reps with the first team this week but you have to figure that these last few weeks will decide who will still be on the roster next season. From what I have seen (Mallett isn't even in the conversation) Schaub hasn't played himself out of the job if he in fact wants it next year. Claussen managed to not completely ruin the game until the second half when he realized, "Shit, I'm Jimmy Claussen! I have only won 1 NFL game in my career and this defense is hard. Sherman looks like he wants the ball, I'll throw to him!'

That being said expect either Schaub or Mallett to start the final two games. It all depends on how Harbs(or his QB) is feeling.

5) Would a real Wide Receiver Please Stand Up?!?

Honestly there are only a couple of names that stand out from our receiving core. One of them is technically a tight end. Kamar Aiken has been improving over the past few weeks and Dan Brown(as the last man standing in a decimated tight end depth chart) has been very impressive. If there is one thing this team can clearly do, it's seeing talent and developing that talent in tight ends. Makes sense with Ozzie at the helm. Amusingly enough Brown was cut from the practice squad the day after Thanksgiving(as a wide receiver). Only to be signed after sooooooooooooooooo many injuries. With that out there we really need to see what guys like Jeremy Butler, Chris Givens and Kaelin Clay. Clay has been impressive in the return game but hasn't done much else. Butler has been more involved the past two weeks so we shall see. All in all as fans and analysts alike, we need to keep an eye on this for the future,

If there is one thing that has been proven this season is that this team lacks depth. Anywhere. More than anything the remainder of this season is about improving that depth. Not only in our roster but our sanity as fans. So cheer up Baltimore, it's only going to be one down year. Right? RIGHT?!?!

A Look at the Schedule

So here we are, a quarter of our way through the NFL season. That certainly escalated quickly. It tends to happen when our Ravens have started the season on the rough side going a mere 1-3 in their first four. In all honesty, I only thought they would be one game better at this point so let's see what the rest of this season has in store shall we.

We have four more games before our bye in week 9. Pretty sweet time for that to be right in the middle of the season. Considering our lack of depth at receiver earlier may have been better but we can't foresee our receiving core falling apart. The four games are split into two roadies after this week's home game against the Browns. That dumpster fire at the QB position leads me to believe that we should be able to hold strong at home. While I know this is a division opponent and anything can happen, the Ravens are the better team and should win this one. We head out to the west coast for the next two starting with the San Francisco 49ers. What the hell happened to this team? Half of their defense retired, their QB forgot how to play football and they have been an utter disappointment since week 2. I'm pretty sure that Torrey Smith and Anquan Boldin are going to put on a little show to rub in us not having them. That is, if Kap can even get the ball to them. More than likely the team will not stay on the west coast (due to their utter failure earlier in the season doing the same thing) so expect them to come home and practice out the week before heading off to Arizona for their first Monday night game of the year. I was high on the Cardinals and figured Larry Fitzgerald found the fountain of youth. They aren't unbeatable, hell the Rams just beat them at their house so it is possible. We follow that up with an epic rematch against the Chargers back at home. We owe them for that heartbreaking loss from a year ago and this is a team that is hurting as much as us on the offensive side of the ball but by then could be healthy. Gates is back after serving his four game suspension but who knows if he stays healthy through the next three games.

So my fearless prediction:
vs. Browns - W, @49ers - W, @Cardinals - L, vs. Chargers W
Which would bring us back to a .500 record before the bye. At this point kiddies we have to take that considering the circumstances.

Our next four seem a bit easier all things considered. The toughest opponent is the second game after the bye. We start with the Jags, that doesn't even seem fair. Blake Bortles does seem to have improved since last season but honestly how couldn't he? Harbaugh has only lost 1 game after the bye week. However the Rams come to our house the following week to throw a wrench in our plans of fixing the season. The team is too inconsistent to really sway this game one way or the other. One thing that is certain is we need to contain Gurley and hope to God Tavon Austin is sick that day. We follow that up by heading to the toilet bowl of the AFC north when we stomp into Cleveland for another Monday night game. Now before you get all, "oh we're gonna stomp those idiots into the ground!" Remember that we have stumbled on Monday night before against a subpar team (cough cough Jack Del Rio's Jags cough cough) so anything is possible. Not plausible, but possible. We then head off to south beach to visit the steaming pile of mess that is the Miami Dolphins. New coach, no problem? Not really, he has called the team "soft" and by week 13 he may have toughened them up. No one on offense really scares me, Tannehill is still proving his worth and the defense has been subpar at best. The Jets just ran all over London on them. It's like they just opened the holes for them. Suh was supposed to plug those! This stretch is where we need to come off the bye strong and dismantle everyone.

Fearless prediction:
vs. Jags - W, vs. Rams - W, @Browns - W, @Dolphins - W
Okay so we have started to turn the season around and are finally pushing for what could possibly, maybe, hopefully a playoff season!

Then our final four games set in. There is some good news. Three out of our final four are at home. Especially with one of those being the Seahawks that is great news! The bad news is that Seattle is more than likely going to be in one of their playoff stretches where they are winning constantly. More than likely both teams will have the longest winning streak in the league at that time (unless no one wants to beat the Pats). Unfortunately I don't think our team has an answer for Jimmy Graham nor do we have a stellar playmaker to let loose on the legion of boom. The only hope is that they lay a stinker coming across the country. Another lucky home game is that against the Chiefs. Two places I would like to avoid playing in are Arrowhead in KC and Century Link in Seattle. KC has been playing a rough schedule so far but they have not been a good road team especially against good teams. The third game in the stretch is against every Raven fans favorite team to hate, the Steelers. By that time they should be running full throttle with Big Ben and Martivis Bryant back in the lineup. They also have a new kicker to blame other than Josh Scobee when they lose. Generally we split the season series with the Steelers unless they are especially bad or hurt. This could be a year that we sweep but it all depends on how our defense performs. They played like garbage against AJ Green so being at home won't matter when this high powered offense comes to town. Especially since you know Big Ben has revenge on his mind. We then finish the season on the road in Cincinnati where I will more than likely have to eat crow as they get ready for another postseason "run". I said they would be terrible, I said they wouldn't matter in the division, I said they would miss the playoffs and I admit, as of right now I'm wrong. By week 17 who knows where they will be, doubtful they will be undefeated but may need to win to lock up the division. These four games are going to determine whether we make or break our chances at the playoffs. Especially with two of the last four being against teams in the division that are fighting for the same spots as us.

Fearless prediction:
vs. Seahawks - L, vs Chiefs - W, vs. Steelers - W, @Bengals - L
This would bring us to a 10-6 record which will probably only get us a wild card spot. Way better than what we all were thinking at the beginning of the season.

If this all plays out like I think it will, we will be laughing (or kicking ourselves) about how this season started. Out of all of the quarters, that last four at season's end are going to be rough. All could be playoff teams that we play, but it will lead to tons of drama in the last month of the season. If we manage to pull this off its going to have me like...

Would the Real Contender...

Please stand up, please stand up. We're a contender so don't be a pretender and won't the real contender please stand up, please stand up, please stand up. Will Smith doesn't have to cuss in his blogs to get views, oh yeah well...

Well before I go all Marshall Mathers, this question is asked every season by the true contenders for a division. The Broncos faithful have to wonder if the Chiefs or Chargers are going to matter. The Colts have to hope for four more years of sucking for the Texans and Titans. The Patriots have, uh, the Patriots have, uhm, OH WAIT I GOT IT! The Patriots have to figure out how to make the NFL look like a bunch of morons each season and whether or not someone in their division might get out of mediocrity. While us in purple country, MD wonder who is going to be a bigger thorn in our side. The Steelers or Bengals.

If we all want to believe Sports Illustrated's Peter King who recently said we could go to the Super Bowl this season with the only thing being in our way....the Cincinnati Bengals. Citing that they have won 4 out of the last 5 meetings between us. That lone victory was the insane overtime home game where AJ Green caught that TD pass to tie the game off of a deflection from Ihedigbo. I had a Bengal fan drop this gem on me, "Andy Dalton (regular season version) always seems to be the Red Rifle against you, (terrible) against most everyone else." Easy bro, Dalton hasn't exactly been precise in our meetings. Surprisingly productive in crunch time yes but his TD-INT is terrible. He has 7(passing) TDs compared to 12 INTs. His QBR isn't that impressive either with only eclipsing a 90 rating twice (out of eight meetings). So while the Bengals fan may have said something silly, King points towards the Bengal defense as their reason for success. While our defense aged and hit kind of a rut, the Bengals have improved significantly on offense and defense over the past few years. Their D has held us to 18.8 points per game. Doesn't bode well for getting another important factor for success in the playoffs. King believes that for the Ravens to go to the promised land we need homefield advantage. I got to say, I 100% agree with that fact. The Harbaugh led Ravens are 45-11 at home and a measly 27-29 on the road during the regular season. Would you rather enjoy playing in the nest in downtown Baltimore for the AFC championship or freezing your nether regions off in Denver/New England?

That being said, let's look at who is actually playing New England on Thursday night. The Steelers will be opening the season against the reigning champs from New England where there are probably going to be a total of 90 points put up. The Steelers, like us, have had a severe change in their lineup over the past few years during our rivalry, arguably the best one in the sport. Their defense is just straight doo doo. While we (surprisingly) finished in the top 10 last year, Pittsburgh fell down into 18th. Not terrible but also not the Steeler football that we are used to seeing. On the flip side of that, they were the second in the league in both total offense (a mere .3 yards behind the Saints) and passing (behind Indy by 69 yards). The killer B's (Big Ben, Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown) all

The Killer B's
Photo Credit: Bleacher Report

have something to do with that. Brown and Bell are arguably the best at their position. Ben is the best QB in the division, ouch that hurt to type. Anyway the man is more than likely going to post a 5,000 yard season this year especially with Bell out the first two games of the year while going against okay pass defenses. New England doesn't really have a shut down corner(and Ben has done well before since Belichick hasn't figured him out). San Francisco may have one, in the year 2020. So he might legitimately have nearly 1,000 yards by the end of week 2. No Bell means little to no run game (sorry DeAngelo Williams) and even though the team is without their deep threat in Bryant they still have a bevy of other weapons they can use. The cupboard isn't bare in Pittsburgh. What does this have to do with the Ravens you say? Well in all honesty, as far as the season series goes we can usually pencil whip a 1-1 split between the teams. Most times they will be close, someone may die/get severely injured and we are going to have one of a battle with some jerkwad on social media about something Suggs does. Happens every time. The thing is, Pittsburgh always plays well later in the season, you know when the season is on the line, and we do get to play them in a part of their schedule that they are usually in a groove.

In all honesty there is a wrong answer here. That answer is what King said. I don't see how, with the chip on our shoulder from last year, we don't march all over Cincy when we play them in week 3. Harbs seems to be quite pissy lately when the team isn't performing up to par and I don't see them doing that again against the Bengals. Hell, by week 17 they could be out of the playoff picture. They have a tougher (first place) schedule, an aging oft injured defense, their star player is coming back from several injuries from just a season ago (A.J. Green) and a QB who (most of the time) chokes under pressure. I hate/respect Big Ben. If we aren't up by 9 or more against the Steelers with more than :35 on the clock I'm nervous. If anyone says other wise they are lying more than Tom Brady in court.

All in all I expect this year to be a down year for the Bengals and Coach Lewis to finally be cut loose. The Steelers, whether we like them or not, get the Ravens to play their best football. Even in the Boller years (ugh) we always got amped up to beat/play them. Plus that high powered offense utterly destroyed us last season and considering our lack of depth in the secondary it could happen again. Look for the Ravens and Steelers to be going blow for blow all season.

Playoff Predictions

I can't pretend that after this week's games I am not happy. With everything basically settled in the NFC, everyone had their eye on what the Ravens and Jets were going to do with a playoff spot on the line. Win, that is what they are going to do.



So my prediction of the Texans making the playoffs, fail. My dissing of Merril Hoge for saying the Bengals were going to make the playoffs, fail. My prediction that the Ravens still would make the playoffs, win (in your face Hoge!). So with predictions on my mind I might as well put out my thoughts on what is going to happen in next week's games (all of which are rematches of regular season games, 3 from week 17). So I will go through game by game and explain why I think what I think, I am awesome not being allowed to be why I think a team will win/lose.





New York Jets VS Cincinnati Bengals



The first match up of next weekend puts two of the top 5 defenses against one another. With the Jets at 1 and the Bengals at 4 in overall defense. This game will be short of offense with both teams ranking in the bottom of the NFL in passing offense, 26th for the Bengals and 31st for the Jets respectively, (although the Jets finished the year with the league's best rushing attack, Cincy was 9th). Last night Cincy didn't start their best RB in Cedric Benson while NY unleashed hell in a game they needed to win. The Bengals were without the fire we had seen from them for most of the season while the Jets were clearly fighting for their playoff lives, even though Rex Ryan thought they were eliminated two weeks ago.





Prediction: Pain. Each team has a similar game plan. Run the ball and stop the other team. What has me concerned is how injured is Chad Ochocinco? Revis will shut him down if he plays anyway so either way someone is going to have to step up in the passing game. Will Cincy be able to flick a switch and play as hard as they have the other 15 games this season? I am not so sure. Flacco was the first rookie to win a road playoff game last season, Sanchez may be the second. This game is going to be much closer then week 17's match up, however I think it will have the same result with the Jets winning. Jets win 17-14





Philadelphia Eagles VS Dallas Cowboys





Sunday the roles were reversed from last season, The 'Boys downright embarrassed the Eagles like what the Eagles did to them last season. I never knew an injury to a center could be so costly on the offensive side of the ball but there is a huge lack of communication on the line in Philly. Add to that the Cowboys improvement on the defensive side of the ball and McNabb is going to have a lot of issues getting the ball to his play makers. The numbers for the regular season seem equal but again you have to remember how well Dallas has been playing lately. Romo has thrown 5 interceptions since the bye week back in week 6. This was after throwing 4 in his first 5 games. Could Dallas do to the Eagles what Pittsburgh did to the Ravens last season? Take out a division foe for a third time and eliminate them from playoff contention?





Prediction: It may be a surprise to those that know me that I am picking the Cowboys to win and upset in the next round of the playoffs. Clearly this year might be their year, they couldn't win in December (they just won 3 in a row with 2 shutouts) which is a monkey off their back after their recent performances. They haven't won a playoff game in 13 years (they beat Minnesota back in 1996) so maybe they are due. Especially the way the Eagles looked yesterday, it is hard to predict that they will have a complete turnaround to beat the Cowboys. Add to the fact that McNabb has not beaten them in the playoffs ever (0-3). Cowboys win 31-14





Baltimore Ravens VS New England Patriots





A rematch from way back in week 4, this is one game the Pats didn't want to see in the first round. Honestly, they didn't really want to face either wild card team. Both play them hard and the Jets split the season series. The main issue people have with these two teams is their inability to win on the road (the Ravens better the Pats with a 3-5 mark) which may have some people leaning to the Pats. Especially since they never lost at home during the regular season and haven't lost a first round match up with Belichick running things. Both teams are dealing with injuries for some of their primetime players (Welker is out with ACL/MCL injuries, Ed Reed is a question mark with his hip/groin, Tom Brady has a broken ring finger as well as broken ribs) but what has people thinking the Ravens have a chance is not just the injuries. It is that "undeserved" confidence, I only say that because most people think this group of Ravens has no right to be confident. Why? I have no idea. They aren't scared of the Patriots and feel that they're in the same class as them.





Prediction: Now it would be utterly ridiculous for me to just choose the Ravens because they are the team I follow closely. However, I am going to pick them for more then just that reason. The game should be interesting with strength versus strength (Pats are 3rd in total offense with the Ravens 3rd in total defense) but what has me so optimistic is the improvement of the Ravens offense this season. They are the 5th best rushing team in the league, clearly Willis McGahee is fresh after not being used much prior to last week's ownage of the Raiders (16 carries, 167 yards, 3 TDs), and New England isn't exactly a run stopping team. Last week Arian Foster rushed for 119 yards on 20 carries with 2 visits into the end zone. Again that was on the road where New England is not the same team. Hopefully for me the match up will be similar to the week 4 match up with a different result in the final score. Maybe Clayton will be able to redeem himself? Ravens win 28-24


Green Bay Packers VS Arizona Cardinals


Yet another rematch from week 17 which Kurt Warner was the main starter missing from the Cardinals. However this week may be different. It has been confirmed that Anquan Boldin may miss the game with a ankle/knee injury. That isn't definite, let's remember that this is the guy who came back after just 3 weeks away due to a broken jaw. Boldin plays hurt more then any other player besides maybe Ben Rothlisberger. Rodgers-Cromartie is expected to play however one of their defensive line members is expected to be out. Last time I checked, Aaron Rodgers doesn't enjoy being sacked so that injury helps the Packers. After last season, it is hard for a lot of experts and average Joes like me to predict the demise of the Cardinals. However the stat of them being 3-0 at home in the playoffs is a little skewed. I mean, two of those are from last season. Green Bay wasn't overly impressive on the road but at least they managed to be above .500 (5-3) and the Cardinals were one of the only playoff teams with a subpar record at home (4-4). So another Packers win wouldn't be a complete surprise to me. I don't see them doing to the Cards what they did to them last week.

Prediction: All injuries aside, the Cardinals offense is still powerful. The Packers defense however is just as powerful. Charles Woodson is a candidate for defensive player of the year and his shoulder injury isn't anything serious. Warner playing in the game will be a huge difference from last week. When this team is clicking on all cylinders they are one of the best offenses in the NFL. We saw what a decent offense could do to the Packers just two weeks ago in Pittsburgh. Considering that the Cardinals team we saw last week will not be the same who play this week, you have to assume that Whisenhunt will have his boys ready to execute on Sunday. Cardinals win 31-21



As for the bye teams. I don't see either number 1 seed making it out of next weekend. I don't care who they play.

If you aren't down with that then I got two words for ya! Do better! I challenge you to pick them and when I win, you can get me some grapes. Losers! However if I pick wrong, who is going to know? The 12 people that read this? I can live with that. Until we BS again.

NFL Power Rankings - Week 11

Everyone ready? I said, 'get ready!' Are you ready for some rankings! A Tuesday tradition. We got Brandan Spiegel and no one famous, here to get this thing started. Get the big dome crashin' under Baltimore's lights. Cause all 12 of my readers are here on Tuesday niiiiiiiiiiiight. Well probably not 12. It's like the millions and millions of my fans. Combined with my dozens and dozens of readers. Hank Williams love, anyone? Anyone? Let's see what the week has given us in rankings this week.

NFL Power Rankings

1. Indianapolis Colts (2, 9-0)


I take back what I said last week. This was definitely nailbiter of the year. They were an eyelash from losing to the Pats. Brady went crazy against their dismantled defense but a crazy gamble late cost them the game. With all of these close games eventually they aren't going to have enough to win. Hopefully that begins this week against Baltimore.




2. New Orleans Saints (1, 9-0)

Win you barely beat the Rams, on the road or not, I can't keep you as the most elite team in the league. The D clearly can't stop the run as they were abused by Steven Jackson. Also a lack of a TD for the first time in a long time was a shock considering their opponent. Brees didn't throw for multiple TDs so it has me wondering how long they will remain undefeated. My guess is maybe two more weeks before a loss. Don't be shocked if an upstart Bucs team pulls one off.




3. Cincinnati Bengals (5, 7-2)

Why does Merril Hoge have to be right? This team is completely legit and playing complete team football. The defense is looking like a creation of Marvin Lewis as opposed to previous years. While the offense is running the ball consistently. Benson came up lame early in the game so that could be a problem going into later weeks. Keep an eye on that fantasy owners!



4. Minnesota Vikings (4, 8-1)


Bye week again, well not really. Although playing the Lions might as well be. Peterson abused them and they won. Not really much of an accomplishment like, oh I don't know, beating the defending Super Bowl champs twice!



5. New England Patriots (3, 6-3)

How do you go for it with little time left, in a tight game against the Colts, in Indy, on your side of the field? Even in Madden I would have punted that. Have a little faith in your defense Bill. These teams will meet again come playoff time.



6. Pittsburgh Steelers (5, 6-3)

I don't think it matters who this team faces or what their record is, they will always be favored. Especially at home. Losing a game the way they did to the Bengals, who played classic Steeler style football, hurts a little. Even Merril Hoge didn't predict they would sweep the Steelers. Polamalu being hurt again also isn't a good sign.



7. Arizona Cardinals (8, 6-3)

Warner and Hasselback put on a show. However, Warner is a pro at a show(I mean he was a part of the greatest show on turf) which is probably why his team won. Add to the fact that Seattle has been up and down this season and the Cards were at home...wait what? They won a game they should have at home? Good for them.




8. San Diego Chargers (13, 6-3)


LT got a gift from his wife before the game. A positive pregnancy test. So the future new dad looked like a blast from the past when he dominated the Eagles. Broncos are on the decline while this team keeps getting better and better.




9. Dallas Cowboys (6, 6-3)

They looked AWFUL against the Packers. Being shut out for most of the game when the defense they were facing was less than impressive against the Bucs. I said it wouldn't last long. I don't see them losing against the Skins but I wouldn't have picked them to beat the Broncos either. One of the best rivalries in the NFL.



10. Philadelphia Eagles (7, 5-4)

They apparently can't travel to the west coast and leave with a W. At least this time it was to a more worthy opponent. McNabb went crazy with over 350 yards and they still lost. Add that to the fact Brian Westbrook has another concussion. Doesn't look good for the Eagles.



11. Houston Texans (11, 5-4)


Bye week this past week. Will the running back committee continue? I would like to know (fannnnnnnnnnnnntasyyyyyyyyy).



12. Baltimore Ravens (12, 5-4)

That game hurt to watch. Both teams looked poor. However it was the Browns offense that looked worse. Antoine Pollard said it best, "I feel dumber for watching that game." Well hopefully we will be more offensive against the Colts.

13. Atlanta Falcons (10, 5-4)

Losing Michael Turner is going to hurt this team. Evident in the fact that they lost to the Panthers who are really rolling now. If the Falcons keep playing like this they could lose a playoff spot to the Panthers.

14. New York Giants (14, 5-4)

Bye week...not much to say. At least the Eagles and Cowboys lost this week!

15. San Francisco 49ers (15, 4-5)

That was an ugly, ugly win. Atrocious would describe that win. Gore was able to move the ball but that was it. The defense looked good or was it Cutler that looked that bad.

16. Miami Dolphins (16, 4-5)

Well at least they didn't blow that game to the Bucs. Henne did look pedestrian at times but they need to Jets and Pats to kill each other this weekend to give them a chance in the division.

17. Green Bay Packers (18, 5-4)

How do you go from losing to the Bucs to beating the Cowboys? I don't know but I like it! Pretty dominant at home not allowing the Boys to score until late in the fourth quarter when it didn't matter.

18. Denver Broncos (9, 6-3)

They lost to the Redskins, probably due to Orton being injured when they needed him late. If he is hurt for an extended period of time, this team could miss the playoffs.

19. Carolina Panthers (21, 4-5)

What a turnaround. Next to the Titans this might be the scariest under .500 in the league. With Atlanta faltering and having injury issues with Turner, who knows what can happen with a wild card spot.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars (23, 5-4)

Why MJD didn't just punch it in for the win I have no idea. I mean, doesn't he know people could have used that TD in fantasy! Del Rio will have hate mail from about 60 million fantasy owners this week, he won't care since his team won.

21. Tennessee Titans (22, 3-6)

Chris Johnson beast mode activated. Can they win 10 in a row and possibly make the playoffs? Possibly, with Johnson running the ball so dominantly anything is possible.

22. New York Jets (17, 4-5)

MJD owns everyone. He even felt sorry for them, so he took a knee at the 1. I have no idea why but whatever. Jets loss and now the Pats are coming to town. My how the tides have turned.



23. Chicago Bears (19, 4-5)

Hey Jay over here I'm open, whoops. Another interception. This is going to be an ugly rest of the season if he doesn't stop turning the ball over. A lot of folks were saying all of those INTs were not his fault. Okay well 3 of them were, especially the one that lost the game. The defense finally turns it around and this happens. Da Bears are Da Turnova Kings.


24. Seattle Seahawks (20, 3-6)

Hasselback lost a tough battle against Warner. He did get a rapport going with Houschmandzadeh and at least Forsett looks good considering Orange Julius Jones got hurt.


25. Buffalo Bills (24, 3-6)

Chris Johnson nearly had 300 yards from the line of scrimmage this week. I remember when I thought the Bills might be decent. That was before the injuries, the letdowns and the preseason.


26. Washington Redskins (30, 3-6)

I'm sorry they did what? They beat the Broncos? No way. Betts ran all over them? Wow. Will I be the only one who won't be shocked if Betts stays as the starting back even if Portis comes back healthy?


27. Kansas City Chiefs (25, 2-7)

So in the game of the weak they took out the Raiders. It was kind of a gift the Raiders gave them. At this point, would anyone be shocked if they beat the Broncos?


28. Oakland Raiders (27, 2-7)

Same score but in reverse against the Chiefs this week. Watching Heyward-Bey drop two balls that cost his team the game has to hurt Al Davis. Especially while watching Michael Crabtree lighting up in San Fran.


29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (29, 1-8)

They look like they are going to shock some more teams before the year is out. I honestly won't be totally surprised when the Cadillac runs ALL OVER the Saints this week. I also won't be surprised if Freeman throws a pick 6 or two.


30. Detroit Lions (28, 1-8)

Maybe the highlight of the season will be that they actually got a win. I don't know if they win again with the defense they are playing now.


31. St. Louis Rams (31, 1-8)

They actually stood a chance against the second best team in the league. The fact that they have Steven Jackson sure helped them exploit the Saints biggest weakness. They are going to string together some wins. Not starting this week.


32. Cleveland Browns (32, 1-8)

They are awful, so bad that they made the Ravens look just as bad. No one has the heart or drive on offense. They need diverse play calling to get the ball into the hands of Cribbs and Massaquoi. At least the defense didn't get completely abused.



Dare to compare mine to those at ESPN. We differ on our opinions but hey, at least you know I'm not one to plagiarize! Check it out and I will see you here next week!http://espn.go.com/nfl/powerrankings

NFL Power Rankings - Week 10

Happy midway point in the season! Some fans have begun the paper bag wearing tradition in hopes of a number one pick. While others are still shocked their team is first in the division. You know who you are! Your team is who Denny Green thought they were! *punches podium* With the Colts and Saints winning close games at home there are not a big changes at the top but the rankings have been shook up more then Elvis Presley's hips. Okay while that reference is dated we all know it makes sense. Now let's get to the rankings.

NFL Power Rankings

1. New Orleans Saints (1, 8-0)

The Panthers did everything right to win that game. Yet lose. Saints D has 7 TDs which is more then the Browns have scored total (5). This week shouldn't be close as they face a Rams team that has been god awful against everyone except for the Lions.

2. Indianapolis Colts (2, 8-0)

Nailbiter of the week. They were an eyelash from going into OT against the Texans. I'm taking the Texans in their week 12 match up. They may have already lost their first game by then. They may have lost their first game by the end of the weekend. All the injuries have to catch up with them eventually.

3. New England Patriots (3, 6-2)

Well no hiccups against the Dolphins this week. Great match up this week against the Colts. One of the great modern rivalries. Manning vs. Brady. Should be great.

4. Minnesota Vikings (4, 7-1)

Bye week, yet hear that Favre is hurt? Hurt his back from carrying the team all this time?

5. Cincinnati Bengals (6, 6-2)

Ochocinco didn't score but honestly neither did the Ravens. They beat them like they used to get beat in Baltimore in previous seasons. Smash mouth, pound the rock football. Sound like any other teams, maybe in the AFC North? Strong defense, power running game?

5. Pittsburgh Steelers (7, 6-2)

They treated the Broncos as the Ravens did last week. By owning them completely in the second half. If they take down the Bengals this week they may have the crown of the best team in the AFC.

6. Dallas Cowboys (13, 6-2)

I have a feeling this won't last long. Before too long Romo will screw up and they will fall into a black hole. Somehow losing to the Redskins in the process. You know its going to happen!

7. Philadelphia Eagles (9, 5-3)

They are lucky to have moved up however so many other teams ahead of them looked worse for the wear in their losses. Theirs was with a backup rookie RB and having Desean Jackson shut down for most of the game. Dallas won't stay as high as they are now once December hits.

8. Arizona Cardinals (10, 5-3)

Meet the NFL's version of the Philadelphia Phillies. They are terrible at home and undefeated on the road this season. If only they started that road winning streak at the end of last season...

9. Denver Broncos (6, 6-2)

Now they have been beat on the road and smashed at home. The second half is where they were excelling. The past two weeks have been terrible. Their rushing defense was great until two weeks ago. Lose this week to the Skins and everyone will forget how you started the year.

10. Atlanta Falcons (11, 5-3)

Is beating the Redskins really an accomplishment anymore? I didn't think so.

11. Houston Texans (12, 5-4)

They were a FG away from taking the Colts to OT. Now they get a bye week to sit back and relax. Much better then last year's bye day in week 2.

12. Baltimore Ravens (8, 4-4)

Beatdown week, unfortunately it was directed towards us. We only lost by 10 but we still got beat up bad in Cincy. Barring a complete meltdown we are out of the division race but there are still 8 games left. The Browns this week will make us feel great about ourselves, help the team hone their craft. Which is good considering we play a real team the following week, the Colts.

13. San Diego Chargers (19, 5-3)

While I love me some Rivers to Jackson (fantasy ownage), I am still not sold on this team. Going on the road and beating a floundering Giants team on an amazing play with seconds to play is impressive. They are only a game behind the struggling Broncos who no longer seem to be walking away with the division.

14. New York Giants (16, 5-4)

Four in a row. Tough loss on a last second pass from Rivers to Jackson. I am just glad the talk of a Jets Giants Super Bowl has stopped completely. Now people aren't even sure they can make the playoffs. I mean, its not December yet. That is usually when the Cowboys fall apart.

15. San Francisco 49ers (15, 3-5)

Now they are losing to teams they should beat. The defense is not looking as strong as before and the offense isn't completely there either. Smith, Gore and Vernon Davis are monsters and are going to own the Bears on Thursday. If they don't, the season is in trouble. Considering that since their 3-1 start they have lost 4 in a row.

16. Miami Dolphins (18, 3-5)

They didn't keep it up. Only losing by 10 to New England isn't a win but I still can't drop them below the Jets. Considering they swept them this year. It gets better for Miami, they face the Bucs this week.

17. New York Jets (20, 4-4)

I think Rex has had long enough to teach his guys the major part of Jacksonville this week. Stop MJD! Although I would appreciate if you guys wouldn't.

18. Green Bay Packers (14, 4-4)

They are lucky I don't move them to last. Seriously how do you lose to the Bucs. THE BUCS! AHHHHHHHHH! Sorry, I picked them to win in my survivor league. Now I regret it.

19. Chicago Bears (17, 4-4)

Remember when their defense was great like 3 years ago? Remember when Kurt Warner looked as great as he did last Sunday? Remember when an insult to this defense was blasphemy? Remember when I annoyed everyone by asking so many questions?

20. Seattle Seahawks (21, 3-5)

Hasselback looked great even with a shoulder injury. He threw it 51 times for 300+ yards. Problem is that was the Lions they played on Sunday. Only team that couldn't light up the scoreboard against them was the Redskins.

21. Carolina Panthers (22, 3-5)

They were in a close one with the best team in the NFL in their house. As long as they stick to the run this team could be in a lot of their next few games. Don't be surprised if they take out the Falcons this week. Deangelo Williams is one of the hottest RBs in the league right now.

22. Tennessee Titans (26, 2-6)

Let's get too happy people. Your rush defense was still awful but Young looked decent against a decent defense. Chris Johnson is going to break the rushing record this week. It could happen. Anything is possibllllllllllllllle!

23. Jacksonville Jaguars (23, 4-4)

They are having way too close of games against poor opponents. How you can only beat the Rams and Chiefs by only a field goal when you have such an explosive back in MJD is beyond me. Also Garrard actually performed last week. They might not beat out the Titans in the division.

24. Buffalo Bills (24, 3-5)

Bye this past week. However, they are facing the upstart Titans this week. Chris Johnson can get 300 yards this week. I won't be surprised if he breaks the rushing record against this poor rushing defense. Enough about the Titans, there really isn't anything nice to say about the Bills.

25. Kansas City Chiefs (25, 1-7)

The bye week didn't help Cassel. Releasing LJ opens the door for Jamaal Charles unfortunately it's automatically shut due to the porous offensive line in KC. They could/should get their second win this week against the Raiders.

27. Oakland Raiders (27, 2-6)

A bye week, yet Jamarcus Russell still threw 3 interceptions. At least they get Run DMC back this week.

28. Detroit Lions (28, 1-7)

They dropped two in a row to the powerful NFC West. Sense the sarcasm? It would be okay if at least one of those teams were the Cards. When they are the Rams and Seahawks, you have problems.

29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (32, 1-7)

While they completely ruined me in my suicide league, they did look decent against the Packers. Freeman is a better QB then what we have seen so far from this team. The defense is starting to come around. Who knows? Two wins, maybe three.

30. Washington Redskins (29, 2-6)

Portis did the best thing this week by getting a concussion. Now he doesn't have to play this week. That makes this team even worse. On a side note, the team clearly has some fight in them. Cue rim shot.

31. St. Louis Rams (31, 1-7)

While they beat the Lions, they beat...the Lions. I don't know if they will pull of another win but who knows. A lot of their games have been close against lesser teams. That is certainly not the case this week.

32. Cleveland Browns (30, 1-7)

They are awful, so bad that a bye made their team worse. Derek Anderson had the worst passer rating in the NFL with a 4th quarter QB rating of 3.2. Now Brady Quinn is the sacrificial lamb once again for the Ravens. Does Mangini not remember what happened last time?

Dare to compare mine to those at ESPN. We differ on our opinions but hey, at least you know I'm not one to plagiarize! Check it out and I will see you here next week!http://espn.go.com/nfl/powerrankings

NFL Power Rankings - Week 9

Hope you all had a happy and safe Halloween! The same can't be said for some NFL teams. Maybe this will help me get over that horrible Yankees victory I saw Wednesday night. Sorry Yankee fan but I just can't be happy for you. It's the Baltimore in me. Speaking of Baltimore, they assisted in demolishing one/removing a team from the unbeaten leaving the NFL with two. Now this has everyone predicting a Saints and Colts Super Bowl. Well, let me do my best Samuel L. MFin Jackson when I say, "Not me!" Why am I yelling? It's just how I talk, now let's get to the rankings.

NFL Power Rankings

1. New Orleans Saints (1, 7-0)

Still undefeated, not even close at home. Brees still looks great, the defense can be run on but still create turnovers with points at the end of them. As long as they stay healthy I am not sure that they can be stopped. Not going to go undefeated but will not be beat at home.


2. Indianapolis Colts (2, 7-0)

I can't move them up for almost losing to the Niners at home. Can't move them down either. Still undefeated and facing a team this week that they are 13-1 against. Also losing Bob Sanders for the season after just playing in 2 games not a positive in my mind.


3. New England Patriots (4, 5-2)

Bye week this past week. Tough division game against the Dolphins. Those games are always interesting.


4. Minnesota Vikings (5, 7-1)

Smashing Green Bay twice has to make an old man feel good. Being in first place going into the bye with only one loss is also pretty good.



5. Cincinnati Bengals (6, 5-2)


They destroyed the Bears. Yes, I know I said that last week but it was their bye. What should I say? Ochocinco is a jokester, sending the Ravens D sticks of deodorant. Odoriferous, offalactigil, emanations.





6. Denver Broncos (3, 6-1)



What a difference ownage makes. They were destroyed by Baltimore this week. So the question remains since it took so long for people to FINALLY jump their bandwagon. Which team will show up this week? The great team that we all saw before the Ravens game or the team that got demolished in Baltimore? Time will tell.





7. Pittsburgh Steelers (9, 5-2)



Bye week so...why move them up?




8. Baltimore Ravens (11, 4-3)



Beatdown week. Ownage of an unbeaten team hasn't been done like that in a long time. It feels sweet to end a losing streak now, let's not start a new one against Cincy!






9. Philadelphia Eagles (12, 5-2)



For dismantling the Giants you get to be in the top 10. Now just do the same thing to the Cowboys and you can stay. As long as Desean Jackson keeps dominating everyone I don't see how they can be stopped. Should be a great show in Dallas this week.








10. Arizona Cardinals (8, 4-3)





DON'T Believe in the Cardinals. I don't think anyone saw that one coming. A loss to the Panthers at home, really? They got ran all over by Williams and Stewart, something they were number one in before last week. That could have just been a fluke by the Panthers but Warner looked horrible, turning the ball over 6 times is not going to win football games.








11. Atlanta Falcons (10, 4-3)





Can't drop them too far for not getting completely owned by the Saints. Can anyone beat them at home this year? I don't think so. Ryan is looking very sophomoric lately. Hope that turns around soon as he is going to need to get going for them to be successful.








12. Houston Texans (13, 5-3)



Steve Slaton BENCHING. No matter the RB the offense is still a beast. Beating the Bills is not as big of a feat as taking out the Niners. However keep winning Texans if you want to head for the playoffs.








13. Dallas Cowboys (17, 5-2)



I can't move them up too much even though they thumped my compMANions in Seattle. They play the Eagles this week for number 1 in the NFC East. Isn't it nice to have three decent teams in a division?








14. Green Bay Packers (14, 4-3)



Losing to the Vikings isn't totally a loss. How bout them Packers fans huh? Booing Favre is a little ridiculous. It did make me feel good deep down inside (read below if you don't understand why).








15. San Francisco 49ers (15, 3-4)



This is another team that I just can't quit. Probably my childhood infatuation with them. They almost stole win from the Colts and looked like they might actually do it, for a half at least. Alex Smith is proving he is better then the last QB Smith (Akili) taken in the first round a few years back. Vernon Davis sighting!!!!






16. New York Giants (9, 5-3)





They hit the trifecta. Their defense doesn't look like they can stop a peewee team, Eli playing hurt is not looking good and they are no longer in first in the division. Now they have to face the pass happy Chargers. Don't make it 4 in a row or do, it makes me feel good to drop a New York team after the Yanks victory.








17. Chicago Bears (18, 4-3)



I feel like there should be a stipulation for power rankings when you beat the Browns. It should be, you beat the Browns, what did you prove? Beat the Cards and we'll talk about moving up more then one spot.








18. Miami Dolphins (20, 3-4)



So they have won 3 out of their last 4. The one loss was to the Saints. This could still be a playoff team if their team keeps it up. They may give the Pats a scare. That's a big may.








19. San Diego Chargers (19, 4-3)





While I love me some Rivers to Jackson (fantasy ownage), I am not sold on this team. Merriman FINALLY getting a couple of sacks is great but the defense has still looked terrible against decent offenses. I mean they gave up 17 to the Raiders, that's like 75 to the Saints.








20. New York Jets (16, 4-4)





Rex is going to eat his special teams players and coaches. Chew them up and spit them out, he was not in the mood for Ginn and juice at all! This is another one of these two sided teams that you never know which one you are going to get from week to week.






21. Seattle Seahawks (22, 2-5)



I can't quit this team. Even after a Cowboy thumping, I moved them up. They are playing a cupcake this week in the Lions. Not another tough game until the following week against the Cards.




22. Carolina Panthers (24, 3-4)



This is what the team should have been doing all year. They completely owned the Cards, surprisingly they beat them at home. Deangelo Williams proved that you could actually run on the Cards and it was Warner doing his best Delhomme impression turning the ball over 6 times. That will do it. No way they beat the Saints at home.






23. Jacksonville Jaguars (21, 3-4)





While MJD is owning everyone, his team is not. The defense is falling apart and can't even stop Vince Young after being on the shelf for nearly 2 years.








24. Buffalo Bills (23, 2-4)





The mini winning streak is over. They were destroyed by Houston this week. Ryan Moats ran all over them. Still having a lot of troubles getting the offense going.








25. Kansas City Chiefs (25, 1-6)



The bye week can get Cassel ready for a team that he should be foaming at the mouth over. Playing a poor Jag defense that is near the bottom of the league against the pass could help him pull the season together. LJ is not going to play so pick up Jamaal Charles if you need a reach in fantasy.




26. Tennessee Titans (28, 1-6)



Let's not get too happy people. Your rushing defense was awful, MJD ran all over you. Young looked decent against a horrible pass defense missing their best corner and a pass rush. One thing is for sure, Chris Johnson is an absolute monster.








27. Oakland Raiders (26, 2-6)





Well at least they didn't get stomped by San Diego. Still yet another loss, lackluster performance by Russell but their rushing D was decent. They held LT to only 56 yards, biggest problem was in the red zone. San Diego has been terrible this season but scored on 3 out of 4 tries last Sunday. Add to the fact that Cable may be run out for beating his former spouse and girlfriends, just keeps stacking up on the Raiders.








28. Detroit Lions (27, 1-6)





When you can't even beat the Rams maybe you should drop more. Well they would drop if the loss would have been with their best player, Calvin Johnson, actually in the lineup.








29. Washington Redskins (29, 2-5)



Even a bye week didn't help the Redskin offense. Honestly do we think any of their players were able to score during a bye week?






30. Cleveland Browns (30, 1-7)



They are awful, so bad that their GM got fired. Mangini is...not...next? So says the owner, he will not be fired during the team's bye week this week. At least the Dawg Pound is going to get involved, they were interviewed by the owner to see if there are any moves that they should make. Play in the UFL?








31. St. Louis Rams (32, 1-7)



So they beat the Lions. Great job men, you did something that only the Redskins could NOT do. Also wasting Gatorade/water on your coach for the team's first win, possibly only win, just seems like a waste of liquid. Hooray, we may not get the number one draft pick!






32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (31, 0-7)





Even a bye week couldn't save them from dropping. At least the Rams beat someone. I don't know if the Bucs can pull off an upset in the battle of the bays.








Dare to compare mine to those at ESPN. We differ on our opinions but hey, at least you know I'm not one to plagiarize! Check it out and I will see you here next week!http://espn.go.com/nfl/powerrankings

NFL Power Rankings - Week 8

BOO! Time for the Halloween edition of the power rankings. Unlike Kings Island of Ohio, no recently dead NFL stars will be appearing in my blog (instead if you want to read what I am talking about click this http://deadspin.com/5366449/steve-mcnair-murder-scene-an-ill+advised-halloween-display). Pretty sad when you think about it. Kind of like Vikings fans after their first loss, or anyone in the Lions vs. Rams market this weekend. So to stick with the theme of Halloween, ratings will be Trick or Treat with a possible monster, villain or horror movie mention. I mean come on, it's Halloween week folks, what do you expect me to do?

NFL Power Rankings

1. New Orleans Saints (1, 6-0)

Even when it looks like they are going to lose they win. It is insane. They wouldn't be number one if they weren't the greatest. No they can't be Ali but they could be whoever they want. I bet wherever they go for trick or treating, they would get truck loads of candy. Big game against the Falcons this week. Who will laugh last, mwahahahahahaha!

2. Indianapolis Colts (2, 6-0)

I can't move them up for dismantling the Rams. I mean who hasn't done that. Although Peyton Manning didn't throw for 300+ yards, epic FAIL! Stomp city though, this team is full of treats.

3. Denver Broncos (4, 6-0)

What a difference a bye makes. Heading to Baltimore for a tough road game in a hostile place, then again they did just play in San Diego. Hasta La Vista winning streak?

4. New England Patriots (7, 5-2)

They are just flat out embarrassing teams now. When they face a decent team and do this maybe I will be a little more impressed. Clearly the offense is clicking though. Bill Belichick would make a pretty sweet Darth Vader though wouldn't he? If you don't join the dark side, I will find someone who costs less money who will! Quote Darth Belichick on that one! Obi Wan Ki-Rex Ryan, you're our only hope!

5. Minnesota Vikings (3, 6-1)

Considering they weren't even favored to win the game how could I drop them more then this? Favre faced pressure and two turnovers cost them 14 points the other way. Without those it would have been a totally different game and who knows? Maybe a new number 1? Alas, no they lost in Pittsburgh.

6. Cincinnati Bengals (7, 5-2)

They destroyed the Bears. Palmer threw 5 times, 5 times, 5 times, 5 times, 5 times for touchdowns. So yes, you guessed it, Booker T is who he will be this Halloween. Must be nice to have this week off. No parties with Matt Leinart though Carson!

7. Pittsburgh Steelers (9, 5-2)

Yes, I know they just beat the Vikings. Yes, I know they got turnovers against Favre. Well, they moved up didn't they?


8. Arizona Cardinals (14, 4-2)

Believe in the Cardinals. Along with their pass happy offense comes a pretty stout defense. I still hear people on ESPN saying the Steelers have the number 1 rush defense. No, they don't (even Tony Reali, stat boy himself says the Steelers are the best rush defense in all the land). This team is! You wouldn't know it. They are like the force in Paranormal Activity minus the fact that no one is talking about them. Not many see how great they are but in due time they will.

9. New York Giants (5, 5-2)

Two losses in a row are not good. Having Arizona come to your house and do something they haven't done in 20 years, win, also not good. Started out as a treat on the town, now you are tricks of New York. Congrats!

10. Atlanta Falcons (6, 4-2)

Another team in their way apparently is the Cowboys. Clearly Matt Ryan can't handle a lot of pressure in his face. Dallas blitzed him all night and got a victory because of how much pressure they put on him. The Cowboys wanted that game more then them. The Iceman Matt Ryan (or Matty Ice as he may be known) will need to have a great game against the league and division leading Saints on Monday Night Football, get those helmets crashin'.

11. Baltimore Ravens (10, 3-3)

Bye week. Get your helmets on boys because this one is going to be a knock out drag out fight. Steelers took out an unbeaten last week, hopefully we can do the same this week. Suggs, become the SUGGERNAUT! ACTIVATE BEAST MODE!

12. Philadelphia Eagles (13, 4-2)

They beat a struggling Redskins team but really didn't look dominant. Desean Jackson did, he put on a Flash costume and dusted the 'Skins for two scores (thanks buddy, needed those points in fantasyyyyyyyy). Real test this week with first place in the division on the line. Plus who really wants to get out shined by the Phils?


13. Houston Texans (17, 4-3)

Steve Slaton sighting. Matt Schaub and this Texans passing game is insane. They beat a tough team at home in beating the Niners. They are surely treating themselves to whatever they want no matter what the defense. This offense is the real deal, just don't blow it against the Bills. A team they shouldn't have a problem with.

14. Green Bay Packers (15, 4-2)

Two weeks in a row they have faced cupcake teams in the Lions and the Browns. They disposed of them like a good team should. They would love to give Favre some spiked candy for Halloween. Don't look into the mirror and say Aaron Rodgers 3 times Brett. If you do, he will come out and kill you Candyman style.

15. San Francicso 49ers (12, 3-3)

How Frank Gore didn't destroy the Texans porous defense is beyond me. Alex Smith is going to be their starter, he looked great late last week. Maybe he can prove that San Fran is his Final Destination!

16. New York Jets (18, 4-3)

Rex probably transformed into Voltron last week. What they did to the Raiders was brutal. What a beat down they put on them. Like they were Bane from Batman. Rex hit a button and they went crazy. Now let's see if they can keep that up and get some payback on Miami.

17. Dallas Cowboys (20, 4-2)

Miles Austin is the best receiver this team has had since Michael Irvin. Clearly he is no fluke as he has had two stellar performances in a row. He clearly has PF Flyers and is going as Benny "The Jet" Rodriguez this Halloween. The guy runs great routes and is a hard worker. Defense is starting to turn around to.

18. Chicago Bears (11, 3-3)

Two losses in a row is not good for the Monsters of the Midway. In addition to getting thumped by the Bengals, they were completely owned by Cedric Benson. That stings.

19. San Diego Chargers (19, 3-3)

They did what they were supposed to do against the Chiefs. It is something new every week for this team. Up and down. It's like Poison Ivy, they had everyone loving them before they ripped out their hearts by losing a few close games. Do Batman villain comparisons ever get old?

20. Miami Dolphins (16, 2-4)

Oh when the Saints, come marching in, oh when the Saints come marching in. Oh they want to change the number (of points they gave up to the Saints), when the Saints come to Miami. Everyone better hide from Bill Parcells as he may do his best Michael Myers impression and start taking people out if they keep losing.

21. Jacksonville Jaguars (21, 3-3)

Jack Del Rio is going to be playing someone from The Departed if he doesn't improve the defense. They can't win enough games to get into the playoffs without a decent defense. There are two potent offenses in their own division let alone any they have to face throughout the league. I mean, even the Rams gave them a scare.

22. Seattle Seahawks (23, 2-4)

This team is like Two Face. One week they are awesome and the next they don't show up at all. After a bye you have to wonder what kind of tricks they have up their sleeves. Hopefully, for my own fantasy purposes, my bag will be full of treats from Hasselback and Houshmandzadeh.

23. Buffalo Bills (25, 2-4)

So they officially have started a mini winning streak. Okay so they beat the Panthers and handled Jake Delhomme like everyone else has. Had they beat someone else I may have moved them up more. Honestly I just want to see if they are posers or if they actually can win a few tough games.

24. Carolina Panthers (22, 2-4)

Delhomme gives up plenty of treats to opposing defenses. He leads the league in INTs and is still going to start despite that. What Freddy Krueger does to dreams, opposing defenses do to Delhomme. If they didn't have Deangelo Williams and a defense that shows up once in awhile. Perhaps they should dress up as last year's Steelers, lord knows they don't want to play the Cardinals as themselves.

25. Kansas City Chiefs (24, 1-6)

They were really put in their place this week. Don't expect Larry Johnson to be playing any time soon over his infamous gay slurs. Don't expect any questionable dressing up from him anytime soon either. Especially with the teams bye week and all.

26. Oakland Raiders (26, 2-5)

They made me regret moving them up. They got STOMPED by the Jets, in the black hole no less! At least no one honestly knows who most of the fans on the sidelines are since they are dressed in more armor then a Medieval Times knight. So much for those playoffs Seymour.

27. Detroit Lions (27, 1-6)

They had a bye week and NFL is giving them a treat for Halloween. They get the Lambs er I mean Rams at home. Woohoo for mediocre games.

28. Tennessee Titans (28, 0-6)

This just in Jeff Fisher is going as Peyton Manning for Halloween. He just wants to be a winner. Maybe he should wear a Vince Young jersey, I think they could get their first W this week. He is facing a terrible pass defense in Jacksonville. So if he can't make it happen they should just lose out and get Sam Bradford.

29. Washington Redskins (30, 2-5)

Redskin fans got a rock when they turned on the TV on Monday night. Unfortunately that rock was only on defense. Without those Campbell turnovers their game could have had a different outcome. Maybe with Sherm "Bingo Caller" Lewis at the helm their offense will get better?

30. Cleveland Browns (29, 1-6)

Even more tricks. They just got abused by Green Bay this past week. The great news for their fans is they can just stay in those dog pound costumes or wear paper bags over their heads if they are silly enough to travel to Chicago.

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (31, 0-7)

Trick. Another lopsided game last week was their game against New England. They would have been better off playing a game in the English Premier League then against the Pats. Hey there was a Josh Freeman sighting, maybe he will go as a starter in the NFL this Halloween.

32. St. Louis Rams (32, 0-7)

A whole bag of tricks here. Did you honestly think they would beat let alone put up a fight against the Colts? They died quicker then a black person in a horror movie. I don't make the movies, you know I'm right. Everyone will wish they were dead as opposed to watching their game this week against the Lions. So this week they could be treats.

Dare to compare mine to those at ESPN. We differ on our opinions but hey, at least you know I'm not one to plagiarize! Check it out and I will see you here next week!http://espn.go.com/nfl/powerrankings

NFL Power Rankings - Week 7

What a week huh? One less team is undefeated thanks to another reigning supreme over them. The Saints (obviously the best team in the NFL at this time) completely destroyed the Giants. The Texans finally showing up are on the rise this week after traveling to the upstart Bengals and putting them away. The Seahawks, well they apparently aren't ready to challenge the Cardinals for the division. The Raiders are thinking playoffs, playoffs? "Blasphemy!," you say? Take that up with Richard Seymour. For now get angry at my week 7 power rankings and shed a tear for the Ravens who are falling into the black hole. Let's get to the rankings shall we.

NFL Power Rankings

1. New Orleans Saints (1, 5-0)

Wow, just wow. Brees owns the Giants and they top them by 21. So as I said before, bye weeks are good. It was a monster game for the Saints offense. I am in awe at how easily they took it to the Giants. They took advantage of a worn out, depleted secondary.

2. Indianapolis Colts (2, 5-0)

Peyton Manning is STILL a complete monster. Even in a bye. I don't see much changing since they play the Rams this week. Unless, there is some kind of miracle.

3. Minnesota Vikings (3, 6-0)

Favre to Sidney Rice is having a nice ring to it in Minnesota. However in Baltimore it's making people sick. They just outlasted the Ravens by an eye lash on a missed last second field goal. Now they get the defending Super Bowl champs. Can Favre not have any turnovers against yet another potent defense?

4. Denver Broncos (5, 6-0)

Special teams did it for them this week. Eddie Royal owns San Diego's soul. Without him it would have been a very interesting and tight game. Defense is looking strong as long as Brian Dawkins and Champ Bailey stay healthy.


5. New York Giants (4, 5-1)

They fell hard in New Orleans. Brees abused their defense and made them look pedestrian. They can't be dropped too much, I mean they did lose badly against the best team in the NFL right now. Time to face another offensive, pass heavy team in the Cardinals.


6. Atlanta Falcons (8, 4-1)

Great game on Sunday night. Outlasted the Bears and their defense was strong. Everything seems to be clicking with this team. Ryan is looking good, Turner/Roddy/Gonzalez all had reservations for 6. The only team in their way is the Saints.

7. New England Patriots (9, 4-2)

Does anyone but me, outside of the New England area, feel bad for the Titans? That was a complete, utter beatdown.What a weekend for the Boston area. Red Sox and Patriots going down hard. This was a tough loss but the reason there is such a drop is because of how shaky their offense looked. That all could be due to the great Broncos defense. Orton owned their defense and the only reason they got a turnover is because of a hail mary. They get a laugher, possibly, this week with the Titans in town.

8. Cincinnati Bengals (6, 4-2)

They didn't look too good against the Texans. Their passing defense is very suspect. Then again, who isn't against the Texans? Slaton burned them out of the backfield receiving passes and Matt Schaub completely abused their secondary. Clearly that is a weakness on this team.

9. Pittsburgh Steelers (11, 4-2)

It wasn't pretty but they beat the Browns yet again. How the Browns offense looked better against their team then against the Bills is beyond me. I guess divisional opponent? Who knows. But a win is a win and this one ties them with the Bengals for first in the division. Minus that whole losing to them thing.

10. Baltimore Ravens (10, 3-3)

Guys it's not me, it's you. You broke my heart again this week. Coming back the way you did and then letting the Vikings drive (why is Frank Walker in single coverage with a guy who has been beating us, him, all day!) was so unlike you. Unlike others, I am not going to put it all on Hauschka or Matt Katula (the long snapper, Antoine!). The offense looked great against one of the league's premier defenses, in fact Ray Rice had his way with them. They lost and they need this bye week. Broncos come to town after that, it's not going to get any easier. MAN UP GUYS!

11. Chicago Bears (13, 3-2)

Tough loss on the road to a good team. Forte fumbles as many times in the game as he had in his career up until that point. Another tough road matchup against the Bengals awaits. Both teams need a win to stay in the running for their division crown. Should be a good one.

12. San Francisco 49ers (15, 3-2)

Their defense needed that bye week because they are facing an offensive juggernaut in Houston this week. Ryan to White abused them, who knows what Schaub to Johnson will do against them. At least they will have Gore back and there will be a Michael Crabtree sighting. We'll see what the offense brings to the table now but the defense needs to step it up after that poor performance against Atlanta.

13. Philadelphia Eagles (7, 3-2)

They lost to Oakland, enough said. Don't give me that cross country travel BS, they lost to the Raiders. They were SHUT DOWN by a Raiders defense without their best cover guy. The Nnamdi factor wasn't in effect. How do you lose to the Raiders? What would you do for a Klondike bar? Would you lose to the Raiders? Yes, Eagles fan, you would.

14. Arizona Cardinals (20, 3-2)

Well they put me and the Seahawks in their place, on the road no less. Very impressive the way the handled the pass happy attack of the 'Hawks. Warner to Fitzgerald happened again and the defense again looked great. You wouldn't believe that they are number 1 against the run. See I told you. LOOK IT UP! As one of my friends says, "Google it!" Like the Texans they also have appeared to turn it around after a sub par start. Time will tell.

15. Green Bay Packers (16, 2-2)

That was just not fair what they did to the Lions. While the shut out was impressive, its the talent that they faced that didn't impress me.

16. Miami Dolphins (17, 2-3)

Bye week this week so no test for them. However it changes this week with New Orleans coming to town. Can the wildcat own them to?

17. Houston Texans (21, 3-3)

Steve Slaton tore the Bengals up in the passing game but not nearly as much at Matt Schaub. This was the first game of the season for the Bengals where they weren't in it for the win at the end. No heart issues for their fans just utter disappointment for losing to an offensive juggernaut like the Texans. This team looks like they have turned the corner.

18. New York Jets (12, 3-3)

Losing like they did was a disgrace. No one wanted to win that game. I think Rex Ryan can turn the team around to fight for a playoff spot. Sanchez has looked like a rookie lately but he should. He is already being compared to last years studs Flacco and Ryan who had similar records after 6 games. That means possibilities for good things if you are a Jets fan.

19. San Diego Chargers (14, 2-3)

It is something new every week for this team. This week you have to put the loss on the special teams. Royal went crazy and some would say that he styled on them. I would be one of those people. They are a shade better then the Raiders and if they aren't careful they will be overtaken by them.

20. Dallas Cowboys (18, 3-2)

Last time we saw them they were saved by Miles Austin in OT against the Chiefs. I'm sticking to my guns for this team. And in case your forgot what that was it is that they are a mediocre team at best, neither side of the ball is consistent from week to week.

21. Jacksonville Jaguars (22, 3-3)

MJD with a beast game but against the Rams is that really a surprise? It's more of a surprise that he didn't have 200 yards rushing and 5 TDs. By halftime! Sorry that is the fantasy geek in me. They won a game that they should have against a Rams team that may or may not be turning it around. For now, bye week.

22. Carolina Panthers (23, 2-3)

The Panthers end up in the win column again beating another poor team. Steve Smith (now known as the other Steve Smith) is upset because the team is focused on the run. Look at your QB and think about that for a sec Steve. Now punch yourself, repeatedly. Maybe that will knock some sense into you.

23. Seattle Seahawks (19, 2-4)

This team is screwing with my emotions. They look great one week and awful the next. Even with Hasselback in the lineup they looked pedestrian in the passing game. Against the Cards that is depressing considering they were one of the worst defenses against the pass. We'll see what happens this week. But they have fooled me twice, so I can never be fooled again.

24. Kansas City Chiefs (25, 1-5)

Since when is beating the Redskins that great of an accomplishment? Certainly not this season. However they did get a tough win on the road but the fans have really turned on the 'Skins. All over some humble pie that was served up by the Chefs. Great coogily moogily. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3gYApfUsaQ&NR=1 <---in case you forgot the reference

25. Buffalo Bills (26, 2-4)

While I am impressed that they beat the Jets on the road, neither team looked good. It was an accident for whoever to win this game. Both were making mistakes and committing stupid penalties left and right. At least their game didn't hurt to watch this week!

26. Oakland Raiders (29, 2-4)

Don't make me regret moving you guys up. Last time I did this you flopped. Plus you gotta think Richard Seymour is getting in the ear of every player after Antonio Pierce said playing them is like playing the practice squad two weeks ago. This past week they had a fire that was missing in them a week before. Seymour for some reason is thinking playoffs. Does he remember who the QB is? Like Kevin Garnett says, anything is possiblllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllle!

27. Detroit Lions (24, 1-5)

They regressed this week. Green Bay made a mockery out of the game. So many teams were shut down this week it was ridiculous, this team actually looked decent early in the season on offense. They are without Stafford who will probably be back after the bye week for the battle of the bums! The team with the longest on going losing streak and the team from a year ago who didn't win a single game. Let the best of the worst win, in two weeks.

28. Tennessee Titans (27, 0-6)

Sometimes you lose, sometimes you lose bad and sometimes you take a whoopin'. That is what happened to them in New England last week. This team looks terrible and should start Vince Young ASAP! Find out now if he's worth his weight in salary or if that is what you need to target in the early first round next year. At this point Titans fans, even Jeff Fisher is cheering for the Colts. He just wants to feel like a winner, can you blame him?

29. Cleveland Browns (30, 1-5)

Does anyone ever expect them to beat Pittsburgh? No, since they have lost the last 12 to them. Their schedule hasn't been kind to them and neither has their coach. At least they had some offense this week. That seems to say more about the Steelers D then the Browns O.

30. Washington Redskins (28, 2-4)

Does any body find it interesting that they haven't face a team with a win this season? Of course, 4 of those teams did get their first wins of the season. Hooray for them and Zorn has lost his play calling privileges. Next Daniel Snyder will put him in the corner with a dunce cap.

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (31, 0-6)

A game between the worst teams in the NFC South. Clearly this team is the worst in the division and trying to take out the Rams for the first overall pick. However what strengthens a defense is facing Jake Delhomme, at least they had that to boost their confidence. That is before Deangelo Williams took it away.

32. St. Louis Rams (32, 0-6)

Add Marc Bulger and a sketchy pass defense, that leads to a near win for this team. Unfortunately they forgot to study up on how to stop MJD. Although they look like they are starting to turn it around.

Dare to compare mine to those at ESPN. We differ on who we think the best team is but hey, at least you know I'm not one to plagiarize. Check it out and I will see you here next week!http://espn.go.com/nfl/powerrankings