Bold, Daring Fantasy Football Predictions for 2009

Fantasy football drafts are coming up and I'm sure some of you have already partaken in a few, here's some bold predictions for the up-coming season.

- Donovan McNabb will finish as a top-5 QB

- Jonathan Stewart will finish with more fantasy points than DeAngelo Williams

- Calvin Johnson will finish with 1500+ yards and 15 scores

- Dwayne Bowe will finish the year as a top-10 WR

- Adrian Peterson will not finish as a top 5 overall fantasy player

- Steve Slaton will finish as a top-5 RB

- David Garrard will be a top-10 fantasy QB again

- Donovan McNabb will not miss a game this season

- Anthony Gonzalez will double his 664 receiving yards from last season

- Donald Brown will be a top-25 fantasy RB

- Maurice Jones-Drew will finish as the top fantasy RB.

- Tom Brady will have his best fantasy season yet!

- Jamal Charles will have a better fantasy season than Larry Johnson

- Greg Jennings will lead all NFC WR in scoring

- Joe Flacco will finish as a top-10 QB

- Dwayne Bowe will finish the year with the most receiving yards in one game

- Greg Olsen will finish as a top-4 TE

- Ryan Grant rushes for 1450+ yards and 10 TD

- Willis McGahee doesn't get injured before week 7

- Javon Ringer will finish with more fantasy points than Chris Johnson

2009 NFC Championship Predictions

Philadelphia Eagles @ Arizona Cardinals
So here we have it, the 5th and 6th seeds are facing off for a Super Bowl birth. The Eagles have been there done that, but the Cards haven't. Which gives the experience factor to the Eagles. Philly has been to 5, may I repeat that, 5 NFL Championships since 2001. Now that is impressive.

Both teams have a lot of momentum right now. The Cards' pass offense cannot be stopped, but the Eagles defense are on top of their game right now. The defense has done a great job lately with pressuring the opposing QB and keeping the running game at bay. I think the Eagles secondary is good enough to not let Warner, Fitzgerald, and Co. go off. The Eagles have done a great job of getting into the redzone and putting up points, but they need to convert those field goals in touchdowns and if they can do that, and also get their running game going and get Brian Westbrook in space, there is no doubt in my mind they will win on Sunday.

Eagles 26 Cards 19

AFC Divisional-Round Playoff Predictions

Pittsburgh Steelers over the San Diego Chargers

I don't like doing this because when it comes to predicting the NFL playoffs I go by which team is hottest. It's also worth mentioning the last 3 SB winners have come from wildcard weekend. This is going to be a great game no matter what. The Chargers are hot right now without question. But, with an injured LT things become questionable. Darren Sproles carried the work load and did a magnificent job of it against the Colts, but it will be another challenge entirely to do it against the Steelers and the leagues best defense. The weather looks to be in the high teens and snowing, playing into the Steelers favor. The Chargers will make it a game no doubt. But I think the Steelers are just the better team, and will (hopefully) play like such but I'm not overly confident.

Steelers-17, Chargers-13

Baltimore Ravens over the Tennessee Titans

The Ravens are red hot right now and Joe Flacco's got me thinking about the year when the Steelers won the Super Bowl with Roethlisberger at the helm as a rookie. I feel like the extra time off hurts the Titans here too especially how hot the Ravens are right now. The Ravens have the D to shut down the run and make Collins beat them with the pass. Kerry Collins might be old but if forced to he can still beat teams....just not the Ravens. Flacco is plenty good enough to take advantage of the field position given to him by his D and gets some help along the way. I forsee a very defensive game.

Ravens-10 Titans-6

TSF NFL Week 5 Game Picks

Week 1 - BYE

Week 2 - 12-3
Week 3 - 12-3

Week 4 - 9-4

TOTAL - 33-10 (0.77%)

New York Giants beat the Seattle Seahawk

Carolina Panthers beat the Kansas City Chiefs

San Diego Chargers beat the Miami Dolphins

Indianapolis Colts beat the Houston Texans

Chicago Bears beat the Detroit Lions

Green Bay Packers beat the Atlanta Falcons

Denver Broncos beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Dallas Cowboys beat the Cincinatti Bengals

Buffalo Bills beat the Arizona Cardinals

San Francisco 49ers beat the New England Patriots

New Orleans Saints beat the Minnesota Vikings

AFC GAME OF THE WEEK: Jacksonville Jaguars beat the Pittsburgh Steelers

NFC GAME OF THE WEEK: Philadelphia Eagles beat the Washington Redskins

UPSET SPECIAL: Baltimore Ravens beat the Tennessee Titans

TSF NFL Week 2 Game Picks

Green Bay Packers over Detroit Lions

Oakland Raiders over Kansas City Chiefs

New York Giants over St. Louis Rams

Tennesse Titans over Cincinatti Bengals

New Orleans Saints over Washington Redskins

Carolina Panthers over Chicago Bears

Seattle Seahawks over San Francisco 49ers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers over Atlanta Falcons

New York Jets over New England Patriots

Arizona Cardinals over Miami Dolphins

Indianapolis Colts over Minnesota Vikings

Pittsburgh Steelers over Cleveland Browns

Houston Texans over Baltimore Ravens - NULL

NFC GAME OF THE WEEK: Dallas Cowboys over Philadelphia Eagles

AFC GAME OF THE WEEK: Denver Broncos over San Diego Chargers

UPSET SPECIAL: Buffalo Bills over Jacksonville Jaguars

2008 NFL Previews - NFC South

1. New Orleans Saints (7-9 in 2007)

On offense Drew Brees stays productive while slicing his interception rate in half. Reggie Bush can improve big time and have a breakout season, becoming the elite RB that many people expected when he was drafted. Robert Meachem should develop into a great No. 2 option to superstar Marques Colston. And the offensive line continues to play at a high level. I also expect Jeremy Shockey to help out Brees a lot settling down in the middle of the field and putting up big numbers this season. He may develop into the league’s top receiving TE with Brees as his QB.

On D Sedrick Ellis gives them the fiercest pass rushing DT they need, and Jonathon Vilma regains his 2004 and 2005 form back in the 4-3 defense. I also feel like the Saints FINALLY fill the hole at No. 2 CB with the combination of Tracy Porter and Randall Gay. Their D is looking improved and I think that they might have the overall most talented offense in the NFC.

Key Additions: QB Mark Brunell, TE Jeremy Shockey, G/T Carl Nicks, DT Sedrick Ellis, DE Bobby McCray, LB Jonathon Vilma, CB Randall Gay, CB Tracy Porter

Key Losses: C Jeff Faine, LB Brian Simmons

Prediction: 12-4

2. Carolina Panthers (7-9 in 2007)

I'm just not sold on the Panthers. I'm not entirely sure of what to think of the Williams/Stewart tandem. They have a lot to prove and I guess we'll find out. I'm also sceptical of Delhomme's durability and the Steve Smith suspension doesn't help either. On other sides of the ball their special teams still aren't very good and their D is lacking the experience they've had in prior years (they lost a lot of pieces this year). A lot of people think this team can compete with the Saints for the division but for these reasons I just have my doubts.

Key Aquisitions: RB Jonathon Stewart, LB Dan Connor, T/G Jeff Otah, DT Darwin Walker, FS Terrence Holt, WR Mushin Muhammad, WR D.J. Hackett

Key Losses: DE Mike Rucker, C Justin Hartwig, DT Kris Jenkins, LB Dan Morgan, DT Kindal Moorehead, LB Dan Morgan, SS Marquand Manuel, WR Drew Carter, RB DeShaun Foster, QB David Carr, G Mike Wahle, WR Keary Colbert

Prediction: 9-7

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-7 in 2007)

I don't really know what to think or expect out of Tampa (just like last season). I'm putting them losing the tiebreaker to Carolina right now but I feel like they could just as easily be competing for the division crown.

My main concerns are dealing with Garcia and Galloway's age. They played great last season but will they act their age this year? Also I feel like Ernest Graham has a lot to prove this season so I'm not sure what he'll be like either. I feel like he's in for a sophomore slump.

Their D continues to get older while I think Gaines Adams will continue to improve and Aquid Talib fits right into the Tampa 2. Just as a whole I feel like this team is just a step below the Saints and will lose the tie-breaker to the Panthers.

Key Additions: QB Brian Griese, RB Warrick Dunn, TE Ben Troupe, C Jeff Faine, DE Marques Douglas, LB Teddy Lehman, FS Eugene Wilson, CB Aqib Talib, WR Dexter Jackson, OL Jeremy Zuttah

Key Losses: RB Michael Pittman, TE Anthony Becht, T Luke Petitgout, C John Wade, DE Greg Spires, CB Brian Kelly

Prediction: 9-7

4. Atlanta Falcons (4-12 in 2007)

This was a pretty easy call I'm not gonna lie. Although I think this team is moving in the right direction. On the optimistic side I think Roddy White and Michael Turner can be young stars in the league (even with the rookie starting QB). But that's just the thing. The ROOKIE STARTING QB! This team is rebuilding. They really need to improve their offensive line and go out and get a TE of the future in the next draft/free agency period.

On D John Abraham quietly puts in another great year, while 2nd year man Jammal Anderson brings additional sacks to his total. I also think that Michael Boley can be a star linebacker in this league. They just are in for a long rebuilding year and you can't forget that. They will (hopefully) continue to get better and find some surprise talent along the way and hopefully be back in contention in 2 years.

Key Additions: QB Matt Ryan, RB Michael Turner, WR Harry Douglas, TE Marcus Pollard, TE Ben Hartsock, OT Sam Baker, DT Kindal Moorehead, LB Curtis Lofton, DB Von Hutchins, CB Chevis Jackson, S Thomas DeCoud, S Erik Coleman

Key Losses: QB Byron Leftwich, RB Warrick Dunn, WR Joe Horn, OT Wayne Gandy, TE Alge Crumpler, TE Dwayne Blakley, LB Demorrio Williams, CB DeAngelo Hall, S Chris Crocker, CB Jimmy Williams, CB Lewis Sanders

Prediction: 4-12

2008 NFL Preview - NFC North

1. Green Bay Packers (13-3 in 2007)

Ok, so what everybody wants to know is will the Favre-less Packers be able to hold off the Vikings. I've been called a homer before but my true and honest opinion is yes. But the playingfield has certainly been evened dramatically.

Although replacing Favre with Aaron Rodgers causes the Packers to take a slight step back, if the young quarterback stays healthy he can complete a high percentage of his passes, and coolly handle the immense pressure he’ll be under from the very beginning of the season to the very end. He's really impressed me with how he's handled everything throughout the offseason and at this point I'm not so worried about his performance as I am his health. With Rodgers bringing those three factors to the table, a strong Packers squad that epitomizes the word “team” repeats as division champions. Favre alone didn't make this team 13-3 last season. The receiving corps is great, they have Grant and Jackson at RB and a quite above average D. I think they can edge the Vikes again. Schedules not too hard and they can beat up on divisional foes Chicago and Detroit.

Key Additions: LB Brandon Chillar, WR Jordy Nelson, QB Brian Brohm, TE Jermichael Finley

Key Losses: QB Brett Favre, TE Bubba Franks, DT Corey Williams

Prediction: 10-6 win tiebreaker over MN

2. Minnesota Vikings (8-8 in 2007)

Much like the Packers' season hinging on Rodgers, the Vikings season really hangs on Jackson. We all know what AP and Taylor can do, but if the Vikings are going to be relevant they have to be balanced. Jackson has made strides in my opinion. People just don't understand how bad he was last year. He had 12 picks, only 9 TDs while completing just 58% of passes when most everyone had the box stacked with 8 or 9 guys! He's better but I feel like he's just not quite there, and the injury bug worries me. Well, it actually excites me because I hate the Vikings but TJack is already running into knee problems and that's a red flag in my book.

Obviously the D is gunna be great and that will keep them in a lot of games. Had this team gotten Favre like so many Vikings fan's shasterbated about, I believe they would be a lock for the playoffs and compete for home-field advantage with the Cowboys. But, to this point they're short a QB and a WR to be great. Lucky for them they have an amazing D and Adrian Peterson to win games for them.

Key Additions: DE Jared Allen, S Madieu Williams, WR Bernard Berrian

Key Losses: FB Tony Richardson, S Dwight Smith

Prediction: 10-6 wildcard bid.

3. Detroit Lions (7-9 in 2008)

Jon Kitna ain’t getting any younger — he’ll be turning 36 in September — but the erratic veteran quarterback is still able to take complete advantage of the deadly receiving tandem of Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson. Rookie running back Kevin Smith makes an immediate impact and, along with Tatum Bell, to help balance the offensive attack. The Defense isn't very good however and that will stop this team from coming close to Minnesota or Green Bay.

Don't get me wrong, this team will be bad. They just won't be as bad as the Bears!

Key Additions: S Dwight Smith, CB Leigh Bodden, CB Brian Kelly, OT Gosder Cherilus

Key Losses: DT Shaun Rogers, RB Kevin Jones, LB Boss Bailey, DE Kalimba Edwards

Prediction: 6-10

4. Chicago Bears (7-9 in 2007)

The losses of Berrian and Muhammad prove to be a setback for the passing game, and both Orton and Grossman fail to solidify his status as the starting quarterback. The defense is forced to completely carry the team, and although it performs better than it did last season, a one-dimensional Bears squad is too inept to climb out of the cellar.

I mean for real, I consider the Bears to possibly be the least talented at the "talent" positions in the entire NFL. Think about it. At QB they have Grossman and Orton. At RB they have Forte, Peterson, and Kevin Jones. At WR they have Devin Hester & Brandon Lloyd(YAY!), Rashied Davis, Mike Hass, and Brandon Rideu. This team is BAD! Orton throws for 200 yds. +/- 5 times this year. Lemme know with a comment.

Key Additions: WR Marty Booker, WR Brandon Lloyd

Key Losses: WR Bernard Berrian, WR Mushin Muhammad, QB Brian Griese, RB Cedric Benson

Predictions: 5-11

2008 NFL Preview - NFC West

1. Seattle Seahawks (10-6 in 2007)

The team does not miss a beat from the 2007 season, and Julius Jones becomes the featured back that replaces Shaun Alexander. They don't lose too much there. The wide receivers display consistency, and the defense continues to be really underrated and one of the league’s best. This team will be good but not great. Good enough to win the division yet again however.

Key Additions: RB Julius Jones, RB TJ Duckett, G Mike Wahle, K Olindo Mare, DT Larry Tripplett, TE Jeb Putzier

Key Losses: RB Shaun Alexander, K Josh Brown, WR DJ Hackett, DT Chuck Darby, T Tom Ashworth

Prediction: 9-7, 1st place; loses in wild card round of playoffs again

2. Arizona Cardinals (8-8 in 2007)

Kurt Warner leads the aerial attack for the Cardinals who balance it out with an ok running game. Rookie Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie makes an instant impact on an improving defense. However, the running game still struggles to pose a significant threat in my opinion and the offensive line fails to protect the quarterback. And in Anquan Boldin can't stay happy you can expect it to be a big distraction.

Key Additions: CB Michael Adams, LB Clark Haggans, DE Travis LaBoy, DL Bryan Robinson, QB Brian St. Pierre, LB Matt Stewart, TE Jerame Tuman

Key Losses: DL Rodney Bailey, P Mitch Berger, LB Darryl Blackstock, DT Chris Cooper, S Terrence Holt, LB Brandon Johnson, WR Bryant Johnson, LB Calvin Pace, QB Tim Rattay, OT Oliver Ross, G Keydrick Vincent

Prediction: 8-8, same crap, different year

3. San Francisco 49ers (5-22 in 2007)

Quite simply put, it doesn’t matter who is the quarterback — as long as he can lead the offense. The offense will show significant improvement under Mike Martz and the defense will be pretty good. I personally think that if Alex Smith starts this team cannot do any better than 3rd in the West. J.T. O'Sullivan has played real well this preseason and I think if he is the starter he can help the 9ers flirt with 2nd place in the West. The 9ers need another year or two.

Key Additions: DE Justin Smith, WR Bryant Johnson, WR Isaac Bruce, LB Takeo Spikes, QB J.T. O’Sullivan, RB DeShaun Foster, KR Allen Rossum, LB Dontarrious Thomas

Key Losses: DT Bryant Young, G Larry Allen, G Justin Smiley, LB Derek Smith, T Kwame Harris, QB Trent Dilfer, DE Marques Douglas, RB Maurice Hicks, WR Darrell Jackson

Prediction: 6-10

4. St. Louis Rams (3-13 in 2007)

Marc Bulger is going to continue to get majorly pressured. And who really knows is Stephen Jackson is going to step up and earn the big bucks so the run game may never reallydevelop. The defensive line cannot apply enough pressure to opponents, and the Rams give up numerous big plays. They just won't be good.

Key Additions: K Josh Brown, G Jacob Bell, TE Anthony Becht, QB Trent Green, QB Bruce Gradkowski, WR Reche Caldwell

Key Losses: K Jeff Wilkins, WR Isaac Bruce, LB Brandon Chillar

Prediction: 4-12

2008 NFL Preview - NFC East

1. Dallas Cowboys (13-3 in 2007)

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones didn’t rest on his laurels after a 13-3 season. Unexpected playoff losses cause that. Jones added speed to his offensive backfield with Felix Jones and moxie to his defense with Zach Thomas. Adam Jones and Mike Jenkins round off what is the best defensive backfield and have skills for man-to-man. Marion Barber and Felix Jones don't miss a beat from the old Jones-Barber combo. They'll probably be even better. Tony Romo holds his performance in the passing game, and the pass defense gets better. I don't see how this team doesn't repeat as division champs.

Key Additions: LB Zach Thomas, CB Adam Jones, RB Felix Jones Jr., CB Mike Jenkins. OL Flozell Adams signed to six year contract extension.

Key Losses: RB Julius Jones, WR Terry Glenn

Prediction: 12-4

2. New York Giants (10-6 in 2007)

Granted the defense lost a few key players but rookie Kenny Phillips has Giants fans excited. He reminds them of other Miami Hurricanes safeties: Ed Reed and Sean Taylor. Eli Manning enters his peak years as a NFL Quarterback and I must say that the season really rests on his shoulders, or arm. He won't really miss Shockey too much as I think Kevin Boss will be a more than adequate replacement and young WR Domenik Hixon has been mighty impressive thus far. The Giants defense held the potent Patriots offense to 14 points in the Super Bowl. Perform at that level and another playoff run is certain, but probably only as a wild card.

Key Additions: Extended head coach Tom Coughlin’s contract. S Sammy Knight, S Kenny Phillips, CB Terrell Thomas

Key Losses: DE Michael Strahan, TE Jeremy Shockey, LB Kawika Mitchell, LB Reggie Torbor, S Gibril Wilson, P Sean Landeta (1985-’93) retired as a New York Giant.

Predicted Finish: 10-6 again

3. Philadelphia Eagles (8-8 in 2007)

DeSean Jackson “the perfect slot guy” who will take defensive pressure off of RB Brian Westbrook. QB Donovan McNabb lamented the team’s lack of a playmaker and Jackson may be that guy, though he shows as a return man on the depth chart. This could be McNabb’s last year with Philly and he goes out with a flourish. Eagles secondary features Asante Samuel, Brian Dawkins and Lito Sheppard. Whoa! But I still feel like this team is too dependent upon Mr. Westbrook and one injury could possibly give this team a bellow .500 record! Andy Reid once dominated this division. The Eagles are not any worse. The problem is that everyone else is better.

Key Additions: CB Asante Samuel, WR DeSean Jackson

Key Losses: LB Takeo Spikes, DE Jevon Kearse, FB Thomas Tapeh

Prediction: 9-7 contend for wildcard

4. Washington Redskins (9-7 in 2007)

Transitioning to the West Coast for a rookie coach is no easy task. It doesn’t help that rookie receivers Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly missed significant training camp time and will be minor contributors in the front half of the season.Redskins will likely be 4-5 at the week 10 bye. They have to run the table against the Cowboys, Seahawks (in Seattle), Giants and Eagles for a shot at post-season play. They’ve done that sort of thing before, but it’s a bigger challenge with a rookie coach and the East is just so tough this year I don't see it happening for them.

Key Additions: Head coach Jim Zorn, DE Jason Taylor, WR Devin Thomas, WR Malcolm Kelly, TE Fred Davis. LB Rocky McIntosh and CB Carlos Rogers return from IR.

Key Losses: S Sean Taylor

Prediction: 7-9

2008 NFL Preview - AFC North

1. Cleveland Browns (10-6 in 2007)
The Browns have more talent on both sides of the ball than any other team in the division, and a dominant offensive line - maybe the best in all of football. This will help Anderson (add Quinn in case he gets hurt) and running back Jamal Lewis replicate their 2007 success. They are explosive all the way around on offense and their defense has continued to improve. This put them just about on par with the Steelers talent-wise.

That - and the slightly easier schedule than Pittsburgh’s - will be enough to get Cleveland over the hump in ‘08. Although the Browns and Steelers have identical schedules, the x-factor will be their two games against the AFC East and West - Pittsburgh hosts San Diego and goes to New England while the Browns host Denver and travel to Buffalo. That’s a huge difference, and after a season where they got shut out of the postseason despite a 10-6 record, Cleveland might be able to ride that past the Steelers and to the AFC North title.

Key Additions: DT Shaun Rogers (trade, Detroit), DE Corey Williams (trade, Green Bay), WR Donte Stallworth (free agency, New England)

Key Losses: CB Leigh Bodden (trade, Detroit)

Predicted Finish: 10-6

1. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6 in 2007)

I feel like Mike Tomlin is going to have this squad just good enough to lose this tossup division. The Steelers will have a great 2back system with Mendenhall and Parker. Also Hines Ward will be good, but he'll be 32 years old this year! I'm not too worried because I think Limas Sweed and Santonio Holmes will be a great young tandem for years to come. Plus throw in Heath Miller at TE...this team will have the ability to outscore anyone in a shootout! That is if Big Ben survives. The offensive line is the biggest question mark for this team and if anything costs them talent-wise it will be the O-Line for sure. The D will be just a hair below what many would consider your standard Steelers D. Overall I think they have better all-around talent than the Browns. However their O-Line and schedule will be the reason why the Browns win the division.

Whatever struggles they have this year will have a lot more to do with their brutal schedule than the talent in Pittsburgh. Winning more than 9 games in a schedule that includes New England, San Diego, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Tennessee, Dallas, the Giants, and Philadelphia - as well as each division team twice - is asking way too much.

Key Additions: RB Rashard Mendenhall (first round pick, Illinois), WR Limas Sweed (second round pick, Texas)

Key Losses: OG Alan Faneca (free agency, New York Jets), DB Al Rossum (released, San Francisco), FB Dan Kreider (free agency, St. Louis), LB Clark Haggans (free agency, Arizona)

Predicted Finish: 9-7 wildcard playoff birth

3. Cincinatti Bengals (7-9 in 2007)

The Bengals have replaced the Ravens as the league’s biggest outlaws, and the number of legal issues facing this team has overshadowed on-field expectations. On top of that, the defense - even under defensive mastermind Marvin Lewis - is still subpar and not equipped to handle the better offenses in the league. The Bengals may have the offensive weapons to trump the Steelers and Browns, but can their own defense stop Cleveland’s offensive fireworks on the other side of the ball? As of now, the answer is no, and that could spell a long, frustrating season in Cincinnati.

Their D looks vulnerable to me (horrible tackling against GB in their 1st preseason game) and Rudi Gay is unable to carry the load anymore (although I think Chris Perry will come in and do a good job). The Chad Johnson thing is also pure chaos. Does he want to play on this team, or doesn't he? Seems like a locker room mess and major distraction. I mean come on! This guy asked his QB for help out of Cinci!

You know what they say about talent: “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.” Cincinnati has Pro Bowl talent at a lot of key positions, but they’ve had that same talent the last several years. It hasn’t won them anything. I think they are an improved team by getting rid of the troublemakers. I also think that Ben Utech will make a huge difference for Palmer and their offense. I just don't think they can win. This really looks to be Cleveland's and/or Pittsburgh's year.

Key Additions: LB Keith Rivers (first round pick, USC), WR Jerome Simpson (second round pick, Coastal Carolina), DE Antwan Odom (free agency, Tennessee)

Key Losses: Madieu Williams (free agency, Minnesota), DE Justin Smith (free agency, San Francisco), LB Landon Johnson (free agency, Carolina), LB/DE David Pollack (paralysis injury, retired), WR Chris Henry (legal problems, released), LB Odell Thurman (violation of league substance abuse policy)

Predicted Finish: 7-9

4. Baltimore Ravens (5-11 in 2007)

The Ravens have history of sneaking up on the league and being competitive when nobody expects them to. They did it in 2002 after a salary cap purge decimated the core from their 2000 Super Bowl run, and that’s the only way they can do it in 2008.

The parade of Pro Bowlers this team enjoyed in the early part of this decade are either retired, in other uniforms, or on the downside of their careers. Ray Lewis is no longer the most feared defender in football, Jamal Lewis isn’t running for 2,000 yards, Jonathan Ogden isn’t manning the blind side for his quarterback, and Peter Boulware isn’t racking up sacks anymore. On top of that, the Ravens have never had stability at the most important position in football: The quarterback position. Banking on Flacco to bring that stability is reminiscent of when Kyle Boller was supposed to do the same, and we all know how that turned out.

Now, Troy Smith has been starting for them in the preseason to this point so maybe they'll try to start the year off with him and fall to Flacco when he struggles. Who knows really. Either way though I think this isn't going to work out for them this year. This team will be near the bottom in the NFL again giving GM Ozzie Newsome more to work with. This is a new coaching staff and young team that will have to start off by taking their lumps early and often.

Key Additions: Head coach John Harbaugh (DB coach, Philadelphia), QB Joe Flacco (first round pick, Delaware), RB Ray Rice (second round pick, Rutgers)

Key Losses: OL Jonathan Ogden (retirement), QB Steve McNair (retirement), C Mike Flynn (released)

Predicted Finish: 4-12

2008 NFL Preview - AFC West

1. San Diego Chargers (11-5 in 2007)

The last we left the Norv Turner led San Diego Chargers, they were flailing away haplessly against the Patriots in the AFC Championship game. The game was best remembered for the heroic actions of QB Phillip Rivers playing on one leg and Superstar RB LaDanian Tomlinson on the bench and not heroically playing on one leg.

A look at this year's team shows very little has changed from last year. They are still a strong contender with a douchey QB and a bad coach. A lot of this teams success depends on the health of their stars. Everything I've read says Rivers is doing well but I have my doubts that he'll be able to be as effective as he was at the end of last season. LDT also has questions hanging over his head. How is his knee with all the mileage he put on it and is he tough enough to carry the load when it counts? Maybe trading Turner was a bad idea! Antonio Gates foot issues were also a big loss for them at the end of last season. If he is healthy, he changes the dynamic of the offense. If he is hurt forget it. A full season with Chris Chambers along with a healthy Gates give the Chargers a legit passing game. With all that said this team is head and shoulders above the rest of the division and possibly the most all-around talented team in the NFL....the 2nd easiest schedule in the league doesn't hurt either!

They started 1-3 last year and still managed to win the division by 4 games. In any other division I'd have more concerns but I think the Bolts are fine in the AFC West this year.

Predicted Finish: 12-4

2. Denver Broncos (7-9 in 2007)

The Bronco's were retooling last year and have a good young nucleus back for this season. Cutler knows that he's diabetic now, and knows how to deal with it. You would think he would have a better year. Psychotic WR Brandon Marshall is suspended 3 games but I think should still put up good numbers this season, but obviously the team would fair better with him for the whole year. The problem is that the run defense collapsed overnight. Denver went from 12th against the run in 2006 to 30th in 2007. The Broncos really haven’t done anything to fix that problem. In a division with Tomlinson, Larry Johnson, and Darren McFadden, that is a risky proposition. All the teams in this division would love nothing more than to stay committed to the running game.

I think the Broncos will compete with the Browns and Titans for the final playoff spot. I think Cutler, Marshall, and Young will all have nice years. I also think the Broncos have too many issues with their running game. I look for the Broncos to better their 2007 record, but miss the playoffs by a game to the Browns. The Browns’ defense is nothing to write home about, but their offense is a lot more explosive.

Predicted Finish: 8-8

3. Oakland Raiders (4-12 in 2007)

Things are getting better for Oakland. They are getting a young nucleus of players on offense and are starting to bring some talent in on defense. The Raiders and Jets were the most active teams in free agency and fans are going to be excited that a winning season is near.
They still have a few problems. San Diego has a young nucleus in place and is not ready to surrender the division to Oakland. Denver also has a young nucleus on offense and while they have their own troubles on defense, they have better receivers, offensive line, and secondary. It is going to be hard for the Raiders to break through that in 2008.

The Raiders have a few pieces to the puzzle on both offense and defense and I think you can expect to see it take shape a little more. The hardest thing to find is the quarterback. The Chiefs don’t look like they have found their quarterback, which is worse than the Raiders who are still determining if they have found theirs. As it stands right now, though, they will play teams competitively, probably win some games against the likes of Baltimore, Kansas City, Miami, NY Jets, Buffalo, Atlanta. They're on the upswing!

Predicted Finish: 6-10

4. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12 in 2007)

I thought the Chiefs had a great draft. In my opinion, it was the best in the NFL. That said, I also maintain the Colts and Patriots could have had the best draft in the NFL had they traded Brady or Manning. The only reason the Chiefs had the best draft is they traded their best player in Jared Allen. While that may turn out to be a great move for the future, it doesn’t necessarily translate into winning a lot of games the following year.

The Chiefs just don’t have a lot of good things going for them now. They used to have one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. They don’t anymore! Johnson used to be the second best back in football. He is barely a top 10 back right now. Croyle and Huard are below average quarterbacks. The defense is rebuilding. This is a team in transition.

I look for Gonzalez and Bowe to have good seasons. I think Johnson will have a rebound year (1,000 to 1,100 yards and 7-9 touchdowns). However, what gains they make on offense are going to be offset by a rebuilding defense that lost its best player. This is a 3-win team in my opinion. However, the lack of strength in their division and their relatively easy schedule should get them to five wins.

Predicted Finish: 5-11

2007 NFL Championship Weekend Preview

NFC CHAMPIONSHIP
NY Giants at GB Packers

It has been almost a decade since my dad and I got to watch a Packer game this important and I couldn't be more excited! When I look at Giants’ newfound success it seems hard to pinpoint just because it’s so newfound and a little mysterious. When I look at their game against Dallas I find it necessary to mention the fact that they only ran 44 offensive plays in a game. That is ridiculously low. Their longest drive was eight plays long and ended in a punt. Their time of possession was 23:30. The Cowboys actually outgained them by over 100 yards. The G-Men were efficient on offense and scored touchdowns instead of field goals, with no turnovers. But they won with defense, especially that nasty pass rush that had Romo so rattled in the fourth quarter.

The Packers can shut down everything the Giants did well in the Divisional Round.
You think Charles Woodson and Al Harris won't eat Little Manning for dinner? Do you think the Packers will sacrifice Favre the way Dallas failed to protect Romo? Will they abandon their game plan in the second half? Mike McCarthy proved his maturity in sticking to the gameplan last weekend when the Packers found themselves in a 14-0 hole early. However he stayed committed and it worked. I was very impressed. New York's defense is very comparable to Seattle’s, and Green Bay embarrassed the Seahawks this weekend. The Packers have an outstanding offensive line and a quarterback whose strength is handling a pass rush. They are equipped to handle everything the Giants do well, and unless Eli turns into Peyton and Tiki Barber un-retires, I don't know how New York is going to match points with the Packers. Am I a homer? Well, I’ve been called one before. Is this a homer pick? NO!
Prediction: GB 34 NYG 21

AFC CHAMPIONSHIP

SD Chargers at NE Patriots

I underestimated San Diego last week, and I hope I'm not doing it again now, but I don't see the Chargers beating New England. I'll even be a little surprised if they keep it close. Forget the injuries — Rivers, LaDainian Tomlinson, Antonio Gates, Luis Castillo, Nate Kaeding — and the Patriots' substantial home-field advantage in frosty Foxborough. Forget the 38-14 beatdown New England threw down on the Chargers earlier this season and last year's Patriot win in San Diego that knocked the Bolts out of the playoffs. The Chargers, talented as they are, don't have the firepower to keep up with New England.

Their defense didn't look good against Indianapolis, and it probably won't look any better against New England's record-setting offense. Jacksonville's personnel dictated the "nothing cheap and nothing deep" strategy that allowed Brady to set a postseason record for single-game completion percentage, and the Chargers won't do that. Their strength is in a strong rush and pressure on the quarterback. The problem for San Diego is that their defensive backs, as good as Crowmartie and Jammer are, are going to be eaten alive by the Patriots' receivers

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On offense, San Diego's weaponless attack — with Tomlinson and Gates gimpy — isn't likely to do much of anything against New England's defense. The Pats' defensive unit isn't what it once was, and there are vulnerabilities, but it's not going to fall apart the way the Colts' did, especially if Billy Volek is the starting QB. I believe New England will win, and win big.
Bring on a SB rematch from 1996-97!
prediction: NE 37 SD 17

2007 NFL Divisional Round Playoff Preview

NFC
SEA Seahawks at GB Packers
This should be a really good game. Matt Hasselback will try to live down the whole, "we want the ball, we're gunna score" thing while trying to get over the .500 mark (sitting 4-4 for his playoff career). I will obviously be rooting for the Packers and, I will admit that I would rather have had them play the Redskins than the Seahawks. However, I'm pretty confident that Favre gets another big win in his playoff career. As long as the Packers can protect Favre from the likes of Kerney, Peterson, and Tatupu they should be victorious. I just think that the Seahawks aren't quite good enough. Shaun Alexander has not been impressive at all and I don't really see him being able to run the ball against the Packers' front 7. Side note: The Seahawks had the easiest schedule in football: their opponents had an adjusted combined record of 100-140. Are they a paper tiger in that sense?.....a little bit.
Prediction: GB 27 SEA 14

NY Giants at DAL Cowboys
Eli Manning led the Giants to a 4th quarter comeback victory four times this season: tied with Tom Brady for the league lead. Just something to keep in mind when you watch Eli struggle in the first half. I dont' see this being much of a game. I would love to see the Gmen beat down Romo and the 'Boys but with that extra week off they're going to be fully healthy and fully prepared. T.O will be back which will spell trouble for the Giants. True, it is difficult for any team to defeat a division opponent 3 times in a season but while I think Eli is progressing nicely, he’ll have to wait another year.
Prediction: DAL 30 NYG 10

AFC
JAX Jaguars at NE Patriots

This is the marquee match-up that I have been waiting all week for as the NFL’s top passing offense (New England) and the league’s No. 2 rushing offense (Jacksonville) take center stage. It is no secret that the Patriots are the biggest story so far this season going 16-0 in the regular season (The NFL’s fourth unbeaten/untied season in history and set a league scoring record with 589 points). But Jaguars are also a dangerous dominating bunch as through the Wild Card, they own an active streak of scoring at least 24 points in 11 consecutive games. I would absolutely love to pick the Jags in this one. I absolutely want the Jags to win this one. I will not be picking the Jags to win this one....I just can't. Where a week off hurts a lot of teams, if you have Bill Belichick as your head coach it helps you immensely. I think the Patriots will be beyond prepared in this one. Bill Belichick is 5-0 when the Patriots have a bye week in the playoffs (including Super Bowls 2003 and 2004). Whenever Belichick has time to prepare, he finds success, or success finds him. Again, I’d love to pick the Jags because they can run the ball, they can stop the run, get to the quarterback and they have a quarterback who doesn’t turn the ball over. However, I just can't pick against Brady, Moss, and the Patriots right now. That being said, "GO JAGS".

Prediction: NE 31 JAX 20

SD Chargers at IND Colts
Though the Chargers beat the Colts 23-21 in November of this season, this is an entirely different Colts squad. Everyone wants to talk about the Patriots, but most people are sleeping on the 13-win Colts in my opinion. Let’s not forget that this team allowed the fewest points in the league this year on defense (262) and they sport this year’s defensive player of the year safety Bob Sanders. And who wants to debate me that the Chargers are just glad to have finally won a playoff game after squeaking past the beat up Titans 17-6 after trailing 6-0 at the half. I personally feel that with the Patriots undefeated season and all, the Colts got kind of forgotten. Remember, they are the defending champs and they are probably a better all-around team than they were last year when they won it. Now, is everybody else better too. Maybe? Are the Chargers better than the Colts? No. Tony Dungy > Norv Turner .... by a longshot.

Prediction: IND 35 SD 13

2007 NFL Wildcard Weekend Preview

NFC
NY Giants at TB Bucaneers
Well the Buccaneers come in having lost 3 of their last 4 games while the G-men were able to avoid their typical folding image by winning 3 of their last 5 games (two losses to the Redskins and the Patriots) to make the playoffs. I'm very leary about picking a team led by Eli Manning on the road, especially in the playoffs. However, Eli played out of his mind against the Patriots last weekend, tossing four touchdowns and almost leading an upset of the greatest (regular season) team of all time. I just feel like with Eli, Jacobs, and Burress the Giants should be able to ride their current momentum to squeak out a rare road win in Tampa. Tampa's just too cold right now and although Garcia doesn't make many mistakes he hasn't played particularly well of late and I like the Giants' D in this matchup.
Prediction: NYG 24 TB 20

WSH Redskins at SEA Seahawks
The Redskins (9-7) are the hottest team in the NFL not named the New England Patriots, having won four consecutive games. They've gotten stronger in the season's final quarter and clearly have been fueled by the loss of a teammate. Meanwhile, Seattle's (10-6) biggest asset in this game might be their home-field advantage (they're 7-1 at Qwest Field this season). I think with the game management of Todd Collins (5 TD and 0 INT since taking over the starting job) and the hottest player in the NFL right now in Clinton Portis. Regardless this is a great coaching matchup. Gibbs is a lock for the HOF and I think when all is said and done Holmgren will eventually get in as well. Should be a very close, well coached game.
Prediction: WAS 20 SEA 14

AFC
JAX Jaguars at PIT Steelers
The Steelers are extremely banged up right now. Pittsburgh has a myriad injuries. No Willie Parker. No Max Starks. No Aaron Smith, possibly no Hines Ward (gametime decision) and Big Ben is banged up. The Steelers also haven’t looked the same since going up to Foxborough and getting shellacked by the Patriots in early December. Since that game they’ve lost two of three, including one against Jacksonville at Heinz Field where the Jags racked up 224 yards on the ground, The Jags are healthy and have proved they can get it done on the hellish playing surface at Heinz Field. They're not afraid of the weather and Garrard doesn't make many mistakes. I like the Jags in this one.
Prediction: JAX 13 PIT 7


TEN Titans at SD Chargers
This shouldn't really be much of a game. Vince Young's quad injury has a bit of a question as to who will be taking snaps for the Titans on Sunday.Kerry Collins is a better fit for attacking the Chargers defense through the air. Young is obviously the better option on the ground. It won’t really matter. LT has finally been running with the sense of fury and purpose I expected from Week 1. The Chargers and white hot and will continue to ride this. Their D will play tough of the banged up Titans and you can expect to see Philip Rivers trashtalking like a retard by the middle of the third quarter.
Prediction: SD 31 TEN 13

Week 11 NFL QuickPicks

Sorry for no post yesterday. We had a TSF reunion up in Grand Forks between Ming and I. Now it's back to business. Here's what you should expect for tomorrow.

Eagles beat the Dolphins
Buccaneers beat the Falcons
Jaguars beat the Chargers
Browns beat the Ravens
Saints beat the Texans
Colts beat the Chiefs
Packers beat the Panthers
Vikings beat the Raiders
Steelers beat the Jets
Seahawks beat the Bears
Rams beat the 49ers
Cowboys beat the Redskins
Patriots beat the Bills
Cardinals beat the Bengals
Titans beat the Broncos



Closest Call
Giants beat the Lions


Naysayers? What are your picks?

NFL Quickpicks: Week 10

Sorry for the lack of postage lately, here's some NFL predictions for tomorrow. Also, tomorrow w will have TSF's Final Four Predictions.

Chiefs over Broncos
Bills over Dolphins
Packers over Vikings
Steelers over Browns
Saints over Rams
Jaguars over Titans
Eagles over Redskins
Panthers over Falcons
Bengals over Ravens
Bears over Raiders
Cardinals over Lions
Giants over Cowboys
Colts over Chargers

NFL Week 6 Quick Picks

Sorry for making you wait so long. I spent last night watching the #1 UND Fighting Sioux dominate the #3 Michigan State Spartans (defending national champs) 6-0 in some Division 1 college hockey at the Ralph. It was awesome. PS I was a respectable 9-5 last weekend.

Bears over Vikings.
Packers over Redskins
Bengals over Chiefs
Browns over Dolphins
Titans over Bucs
Eagles over Jets
Texans over Jags
Ravens over Rams
Panthers over Cardinals
Pats over Cowboys
Chargers over Raiders
Seahawks over Saints
Giants over Falcons

I have a lot of catch-up work to do on my school work so those are just quickpicks. If you want to find out where my rhyme and reason comes from on any of these just drop a comment.

NFL Week 5 Quick Picks

It's been a busy weekend. Last weekend I went a mediocre 7-7...my silver-lining was picking the Lions over the Bears. Here they are for week 5.

Titans beat the Falcons

Jaguars beat the Chiefs

Patriots beat the Browns

Cardinals beat the Rams

Saints beat the Panthers

Giants beat the Jets

Lions beat the Redskins

Steelers beat the Seahawks

Texans beat the Dolphins

Colts beat the Bucs

Ravens beat the 49ers

Packers beat the Bears

Broncos beat the Chargers

Cowboys beat the Bills

I'm sorry but that's it. Any changes, arguments, or smack talk should be dropped as comments. Good Night.

Playoff Talk with %'s and NFL Week 4 Picks

So, tomorrow will be Ming's College Football Weekend Preview, and it's family weekend up here at UND so I won't have much time to post my Week 4 picks on Saturday. Therefore, I just wanted to come chime in on baseball and give you quickpicks for next week.

MLB

-The Milton Bradley ordeal is the most ridiculous thing I've seen in a long time. I actually kind of feel sorry for him.

-The Yankees are in the playoffs....Awesome! Now if the Brewers don't make it, I can always watch to cheer for whoever they're playing!

-The NL Playoff race is enough to make your head spin!

-Regardless of who comes out of the NL, the AL teams will be a head above them all.

-Although all of these messy scenarios are possible, Baseball Prospective Playoff Odds reports playoff chances as follows:
1. Mets - 86% (77/8)
2. Diamondbacks - 83% (62/21)

3. Padres - 57% (22/35)

4. Phillies - 42% (22/19)

5. Rockies - 32% (15/17)

-I won't give up on the BrewCrew until it's over.

-There is a 32.3% chance of an outright wild card win for somebody, a 44.1% chance of a two-way tie, a 17.5% chance of a three-way tie, a5.3% chance of a four-way tie, and a 0.8% chance of a five-way tie!

-MLB fans everywhere better hold on to their hats!!

NFL

-Last week I went 8-7...not good. I'm looking to improve this week. Here we go.

Texans over Falcons

Bills over Jets

Ravens over Browns

Raiders over Dolphins

Cowboys over Rams

Lions over Bears - I feel it

Packers over Vikings

49ers over Seahawks

Colts over Broncos

Panthers over Bucs

Steelers over Cardinals

Chargers over Chiefs

Eagles over Giants

Pats over Bengals

I'm a little busy today so these are just quickpicks. If you wanna talk my rhyme and reasoning, drop a comment and we'll talk.

NFL Picks: Week 3

I hope you took much viewing pleasure in the college football action today. I don't meant to cover up Ming's weekend preview but we both came home this weekend and will be busy traveling and studying tomorrow so I better give you something NFL-related to chew on for tomorrow!

NOTE: These are not against the spread. I'm not that fancy. If that's what you're looking for then go here.

Arizona Cardinals over Baltimore Ravens

This is a bit of an upset pick here but the Cardinals are coming off a great win last week and I have a hunch that Leinert and Co. will be clicking this weekend.

Carolina Panthers over Atlanta Falcons

I just can't pick the Falcons. They have to show me something in order for me to be physically able to pick them to win a game this year.

Washington Redskins over New York Giants
The Giants suck and I think the Redskins could be a playoff team this year. I didn't think so before the season but Jason Campbell has really showing me that he is for real right now. I thought he was a year away but he might be ready!

St. Louis Rams over Tampa Bay Buccaneers

I just can't see the Rams starting off the season 0-3. Bulger, Holt, Jackson, and an improved D should equal wins this year! I think they get their first here.

San Diego Chargers over Green Bay Packers

This is tough for me to do but I'm concerned about GB's ability (or inability) to run the ball. The Packers D will keep this one close but I'm not confident enough to pick my Packers and I don't wanna be a Homer.

Philadelphia Eagles over Detroit Lions

I feel like the Eagles aren't a 0-3 team and the Lions aren't a 3-0 team

Cleveland Browns over Oakland Raiders
This pick is easy now that the Derek Anderson is the best QB in the NFL...ok not really but that 51-pt. explosion last week is enough to convince me in this one.

New York Jets over Miami Dolphins

This will probably be a crappy game but NY is at home and they're not as bad as the horrible Dolphins.

Pittsburgh Steelers over San Francisco 49ers

This game is going to be really close. I think it will be a lot closer than most people think. I really would love to be able to pick the 9ers as an upset special but I'm not confident enough. The Steelers have looked too good thus far.

New England Patriots over Buffalo Bills

Obviously...

Kansas City Chiefs over Minnesota Vikings

I'm not confident enough in the Vikings QB (whoever it's going to be) to pick them. They could probably hand the ball off 45-60 times and keep it close, but you have to keep defenses honest and I'm not sure they can really do that. Plus, if anyone can exploit a really good defense, it's gotta be Larry Johnson.

Indianapolis Colts over Houston Texans

The Texans have been amazing this year, and I think they will be a good team this season. However, they're not Indianapolis- good yet. The dream doesn't end, it just stalls here.

New Orleans Saints over Tennesse Titans

I don't think Brees and Bush will disappoint again. I think the Saints beat the Titans here in a close one filled with excitement and big plays

Dallas Cowboys over Chicago Bears

Grossman < Romo. That's my reasoning.

Denver Broncos over Jacksonville Jaguars

This will be really close. I don't actually have a favorite pick here, I'm just going with my gut because I view it as a toss-up.

Comments? Picks? Pre and Post-game Smack talk?