The NFL playoffs start this weekend after an exciting week 17 that decided the AFC playoff picture and an NFC conference that has a below .500 team in it..
AFC
Wild Card
Steelers 28 - Ravens 17
Colts 24 - Bengals 16
The Steelers and Ravens are 1-1 in the series against each other this year, but with wins at home. The Steelers play at home and I don't buy the whole "Flacco is elite in the Playoffs"
They last time these two teams faced, the Colts dominated them at home 27-0. It won't be as substantial as a win, but the Colts are the better team.
Divisional
Broncos 30 - Steelers 24
Patriots 33 - Colts 21
I actually think the Steelers have a chance for the upset, but hard to go against a Broncos team who's undefeated at home and who has Manning leading the way.
The Pats are simply the better team here. The Colts are outmatched and will have a hard time winning this game.
Championship
Patriots 30 - Broncos 27
Safe prediction having these two teams in the championship game and having the Pats winning, but it is definitely the most logical choice. Brady and Pats find themselves back in the Super Bowl.
NFC
Wild Card
Lions 31 - Cowboys 17
Panthers 17 - Cardinals 12
Can a home game actually hurt the Cowboys? It just might. The Cowboys have a ton of weapons on offense, but the Lions are fortunate to have Suh back in on D. Romo still has to prove himself in high pressure situations like this in order for me to pick a team who is .500 at home (even if the opponent is .500 on the road)
The Panthers and Cardinals is a tough one to predict. I see it being a low scoring game, with the Cardinals team keeping them in it, but the offense not able to do enough to win the game. The Panthers are 7-8-1, but they've been playing like a playoff team their last four games.
Divisional
Seahawks 24 - Lions 14
Packers 31 - Panthers 20
The Seahawks are the hottest team in football right now and the Lions are .500 on the road. I think Stafford will have a hard time against the Seahawks team and their 12th man.
Packers are the better team, are undefeated at home, and have Aaron Rodgers. Simple as that. I'd be shocked if Rodgers doesn't play this game with his injury. If he doesn't, I'd pick the Panthers here.
Championship
Packers 28 - Seahawks 20
On paper, you'd pick the Seahawks (especially at home), but I think Rodgers will find a way to get it done.
Super Bowl
Packers 27 - Patriots 24
In a close battle, I'm picking the Packers. This will be one of those games where it comes down to the QB. Both are one of the best in the league, but giving Rodgers the slight edge.
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
NFL Power Rankings - Final
The NFL season has come to an end. Final power rankings below.
1. New England Patriots: 328
Notes: The best team in the NFL. While I wouldn't say "clear favorite", they are definitely the favorite in the AFC to make it to the Super Bowl.
2. Seattle Seahawks: 321
Notes: Just like the Pats are the favorite in the AFC, the Seahawks are the favorite in the NFC, especially with home field advantage throughout the playoffs.
3. Green Bay Packers: 314
Notes: Aaron Rodgers told Packers to "relax" and he was right as the Packers end the season at 12-4 with a bye week in the Playoffs.
4. Denver Broncos: 301
Notes: Will Peyton Manning redeem get another chance at the Super Bowl this year? It will be tough. Tougher competition and you get the feeling that, while a very good team, this Broncos team isn't as dominate as last year.
5. Dallas Cowboys: 280
Notes: Many thought that going into this year that the Cowboys would have this record, but in reverse. The combination of Romo, Bryant, and Murray will be difficult to stop in the playoffs.
6. Indianapolis Colts: 216
Notes: They get a match-up against, in my opinion, the weakest opponent in the AFC. The last time these two teams met, the Colts blew them out 27-0.
7. Baltimore Ravens: 198
Notes: They are a lot better than a typical 6th seed (even if they just squeaked in). While I don't expect them to make the Super Bowl, I wouldn't be shocked if they found a way to win it all.
8. Pittsburgh Steelers: 191
Notes: The Lions always had talent, but usually were their own worst enemies. This year, they finally got it figured out and are in the playoffs. The loss of Suh hurts them, however, against a great Cowboys offense.
10. Philadelphia Eagles: 178
Notes: The best non-playoff team (in terms of record and talent). While they ended with the same record as last year, this team would have likely won a couple more teams with a QB not named Mark Sanchez. They should be in great shape in 2015 as long as players stay healthy.
11. Arizona Cardinals: 160
Notes: The Cardinals are fortunate enough to have one of the best coaches in the league (Bruce Arians) and a match-up against a below .500 team. However, the Cardinals are having difficulty stopping the run which might make the Panthers not so easy of a match-up after all.
12. Cincinnati Bengals: 143
Notes: In my opinion, the weakest of the playoff teams outside of the Panthers. I think the Colts end up blowing them out.
13. Kansas City Chiefs: 139
Notes: While fans will be disappointed that the Chiefs couldn't get back to the playoffs for the 2nd straight year, 9-7 was better than most anticipated for this team.
14. Buffalo Bills: 130
Notes: The Bills were much improved this year, ending the season at 9-7. If they figure out the QB situation next year, they'll be a dangerous team.
15. Houston Texans: 111
Notes: Another team that should significant improvements after ending the last season at 2-14.
16. San Diego Chargers: 72
Notes: Hard not to be disappointed if you're a Chargers fan when this team looked like the best in the league the first half of the season. Now they're not even in the playoffs.
18. San Francisco 49ers: 10
Notes: Jim Harbaugh and team part ways after ending the season at 8-8. It will be tough to find a replacement nearly as good as him.
19. Minnesota Vikings: -17
Notes: Despite ending the season with a losing record, this Vikings team is much improved (especially with the distractions with Adrian Peterson). This could easily be a playoff team next year.
20. Carolina Panthers: -23
22. Cleveland Browns: -45
Notes: If I told you at the beginning of the season the Browns would be 7-9, you would view that as a success. However, after losing 5 in a row, it's hard not to be disappointed if you're a Browns fan.
23. New York Giants: -58
Notes: Coughlin is back after surviving Black Monday. This team has potential to be one of the best offensively in the league with Beckham (who might be a #1 or #2 receiver next year) and Cruz as receivers and Williams and Jennings as RBs. If things get better on D and the offense stays healthy they'll be in a playoff team in 2015.
24. St. Louis Rams: -63
Notes: The Rams continue to be one of those teams that are tough to read. 6-10 is disappointing, but in some games they looked like a 12-4 team (particularly against the Raiders and Redskins and arguably against the Broncos).
25. Atlanta Falcons: -77
Notes: Mike Smith is gone. Matt Ryan is clearly a QB that can lead this team to the playoffs (even after the poor showing against the Panthers), but the team needs to make improvements on D in order to have a shot at the playoffs.
26. Chicago Bears: -186
Notes: I thought this team was going to be a wildcard team this year. Emery and Trestman are, unsurprisingly, gone and the Bears need to make a decision about what they should do with Cutler.
27. New York Jets: -218
Notes: Ryan and Idzik are gone. Not surprised, although it will be tough to replace some as great as Rex Ryan. Having Geno Smith leading your team won't be doing you any good.
28, Washington Redskins: -247
Notes: Gruden gets another chance in 2015. With how things work in the NFC East (and in the NFL in general) this team could find a way to sneak back into the playoffs, but it will be very difficult with the great offenses of the Cowboys, Giants, and Eagles.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -303
Notes: The Buccaneers "earn" the #1 draft in 2015. However, I don't think they're the worst team in the league.
30. Jacksonville Jaguars: -312
Notes: This team plays like they're in the playoff race every week, but 3-13 is still 3-13.
31. Oakland Raiders: -325
Notes: I can't see the Raiders making much improvements next year unless they make some drastic changes. Tony Sparano will likely be gone after next year.
32. Tennessee Titans: -367
Notes: Very similar team to the Texans of 2013. They win their first game, are 2-4 after week 6, and then lose out the rest of the season (not identical, but similar). However, hard to imagine them having a winning record in 2015 like the Texans did in 2014.
1. New England Patriots: 328
Notes: The best team in the NFL. While I wouldn't say "clear favorite", they are definitely the favorite in the AFC to make it to the Super Bowl.
Notes: Just like the Pats are the favorite in the AFC, the Seahawks are the favorite in the NFC, especially with home field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Notes: Aaron Rodgers told Packers to "relax" and he was right as the Packers end the season at 12-4 with a bye week in the Playoffs.
4. Denver Broncos: 301
Notes: Will Peyton Manning redeem get another chance at the Super Bowl this year? It will be tough. Tougher competition and you get the feeling that, while a very good team, this Broncos team isn't as dominate as last year.
5. Dallas Cowboys: 280
Notes: Many thought that going into this year that the Cowboys would have this record, but in reverse. The combination of Romo, Bryant, and Murray will be difficult to stop in the playoffs.
6. Indianapolis Colts: 216
Notes: They get a match-up against, in my opinion, the weakest opponent in the AFC. The last time these two teams met, the Colts blew them out 27-0.
7. Baltimore Ravens: 198
Notes: They are a lot better than a typical 6th seed (even if they just squeaked in). While I don't expect them to make the Super Bowl, I wouldn't be shocked if they found a way to win it all.
8. Pittsburgh Steelers: 191
Notes: Big Ben and team are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2011. While a very talented team, they've also been playing to their competition all year long resulting in surprising losses to the Saints, Buccs, and Jets and barely squeaking bye against the Titans, Jaguars, and Falcons. The Steelers are 1-1 in the series against the Ravens, but did beat them at home by 20 points.
9. Detroit Lions: 183Notes: The Lions always had talent, but usually were their own worst enemies. This year, they finally got it figured out and are in the playoffs. The loss of Suh hurts them, however, against a great Cowboys offense.
10. Philadelphia Eagles: 178
Notes: The best non-playoff team (in terms of record and talent). While they ended with the same record as last year, this team would have likely won a couple more teams with a QB not named Mark Sanchez. They should be in great shape in 2015 as long as players stay healthy.
11. Arizona Cardinals: 160
Notes: The Cardinals are fortunate enough to have one of the best coaches in the league (Bruce Arians) and a match-up against a below .500 team. However, the Cardinals are having difficulty stopping the run which might make the Panthers not so easy of a match-up after all.
12. Cincinnati Bengals: 143
Notes: In my opinion, the weakest of the playoff teams outside of the Panthers. I think the Colts end up blowing them out.
Notes: While fans will be disappointed that the Chiefs couldn't get back to the playoffs for the 2nd straight year, 9-7 was better than most anticipated for this team.
14. Buffalo Bills: 130
Notes: The Bills were much improved this year, ending the season at 9-7. If they figure out the QB situation next year, they'll be a dangerous team.
15. Houston Texans: 111
Notes: Another team that should significant improvements after ending the last season at 2-14.
16. San Diego Chargers: 72
Notes: Hard not to be disappointed if you're a Chargers fan when this team looked like the best in the league the first half of the season. Now they're not even in the playoffs.
17. Miami Dolphins: 51
Notes: Another "average" season for the Dolphins. Since 2009, they've ended the season with a record of either 6-10, 7-9, or 8-8.
Notes: Jim Harbaugh and team part ways after ending the season at 8-8. It will be tough to find a replacement nearly as good as him.
19. Minnesota Vikings: -17
Notes: Despite ending the season with a losing record, this Vikings team is much improved (especially with the distractions with Adrian Peterson). This could easily be a playoff team next year.
20. Carolina Panthers: -23
Notes: The Panthers get into the playoffs with a below .500 record after dominating the Falcons. Even thought they're the clear "worst" out of the 12 teams, they're no easy out.
21. New Orleans Saints: -25
Notes: Is this the end of Drew Brees? He'll be back next season, sure, but there's no way this team will be a contender if he continues to play like he did in 2014.
21. New Orleans Saints: -25
Notes: Is this the end of Drew Brees? He'll be back next season, sure, but there's no way this team will be a contender if he continues to play like he did in 2014.
22. Cleveland Browns: -45
Notes: If I told you at the beginning of the season the Browns would be 7-9, you would view that as a success. However, after losing 5 in a row, it's hard not to be disappointed if you're a Browns fan.
23. New York Giants: -58
Notes: Coughlin is back after surviving Black Monday. This team has potential to be one of the best offensively in the league with Beckham (who might be a #1 or #2 receiver next year) and Cruz as receivers and Williams and Jennings as RBs. If things get better on D and the offense stays healthy they'll be in a playoff team in 2015.
24. St. Louis Rams: -63
Notes: The Rams continue to be one of those teams that are tough to read. 6-10 is disappointing, but in some games they looked like a 12-4 team (particularly against the Raiders and Redskins and arguably against the Broncos).
25. Atlanta Falcons: -77
Notes: Mike Smith is gone. Matt Ryan is clearly a QB that can lead this team to the playoffs (even after the poor showing against the Panthers), but the team needs to make improvements on D in order to have a shot at the playoffs.
26. Chicago Bears: -186
Notes: I thought this team was going to be a wildcard team this year. Emery and Trestman are, unsurprisingly, gone and the Bears need to make a decision about what they should do with Cutler.
27. New York Jets: -218
Notes: Ryan and Idzik are gone. Not surprised, although it will be tough to replace some as great as Rex Ryan. Having Geno Smith leading your team won't be doing you any good.
28, Washington Redskins: -247
Notes: Gruden gets another chance in 2015. With how things work in the NFC East (and in the NFL in general) this team could find a way to sneak back into the playoffs, but it will be very difficult with the great offenses of the Cowboys, Giants, and Eagles.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -303
Notes: The Buccaneers "earn" the #1 draft in 2015. However, I don't think they're the worst team in the league.
30. Jacksonville Jaguars: -312
Notes: This team plays like they're in the playoff race every week, but 3-13 is still 3-13.
31. Oakland Raiders: -325
Notes: I can't see the Raiders making much improvements next year unless they make some drastic changes. Tony Sparano will likely be gone after next year.
32. Tennessee Titans: -367
Notes: Very similar team to the Texans of 2013. They win their first game, are 2-4 after week 6, and then lose out the rest of the season (not identical, but similar). However, hard to imagine them having a winning record in 2015 like the Texans did in 2014.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
NFL Power Rankings - Week 9
This week's power rankings below.
1. Denver Broncos: 187
Last Week: 1
Notes: Week after week they continue to show why they are, by far, the best team in the NFL.
2. New England Patriots: 136
Last Week: 10
Notes: A giant jump in the power rankings, but can you blame me? Brady and company are looking more and more like the Patriots of 2007.
3. Dallas Cowboys: 130
Last Week: 3
Notes: A surprising loss to the Redskins, but the Cowboys still are looking like the best in the NFC.
4. Baltimore Ravens: 129
Last Week: 4
Notes: The Ravens lose a close one to the Bengals. In a tight AFC North, it might cost them the division.
5. Arizona Cardinals: 128
Last Week: 8
Notes: The Cardinals continue to show why they are the real deal this year. Nobody had them winning the NFC West, but they look like the best team in that division by far.
6. Indianapolis Colts: 121
Last Week: 2
Notes: Andrew Luck looks great each week, but the defense gave up 51 points against the Steelers.
7. Detroit Lions: 118
Last Week: 9
Notes: The Lions are known to have a lot of penalties, but the delay of game ended up working out to their advantage. If it didn't happen, they would have lost.
8. Philadelphia Eagles: 114
Last Week: 5
Notes: The Eagles lose a close one against a good Cardinals team. Whether they win the NFC East or not, they should still be a wildcard team.
9. San Diego Chargers: 101
Last Week: 6
Notes: The Chargers aren't looking as dominant as they were prior to their losses against the Chiefs and Broncos. Could be a cause for concern with how great the AFC North is shaping up to be.
10. Green Bay Packers: 87
Last Week: 7
Notes: A loss against the Saints drop the Packers out of 1st.
11. Kansas City Chiefs: 85
Last Week: 13
Notes: It was considered a surprising win against the Chargers, but maybe this Chiefs team is for real and is starting to come together.
12. Buffalo Bills: 66
Last Week: 14
Notes: If you're the Bills, you have to feel good about where you are right now. 5-3 heading into the bye after dominating the Jets.
13. Seattle Seahawks: 62
Last Week: 12
Notes: They won, but the Seahawks continue to struggle.
14. Pittsburgh Steelers: 56
Last Week: 16
Last Week: 11
Notes: A bad bye week for the 49ers with the Seahawks and Cardinals winning.
18. Houston Texans: 29
Last Week: 19
Notes: The Texans get back to .500 with a win over the Titans.
19. Cleveland Browns: 28
Last Week: 18
Notes: The Cleveland didn't fall victim to another winless team. It's funny to think the Browns might end up in last place in the AFC North, but could go 9-7 or better.
20. New Orleans Saints: 9
Last Week: 23
Notes: A tale of two teams. The Saints continue to dominate at home, but need to find ways to win on the road.
21. New York Giants: -4
Last Week: 20
Notes: The Giants had a good bye week with losses by the Eagles and Cowboys. However, it's probably too little too late.
22. Carolina Panthers: -40
Last Week: 22
23, Washington Redskins: -41
Last Week: 25
Notes: McCoy is providing an added spark to this team.
24. Minnesota Vikings: -56
Last Week: 27
Notes: They find themselves on the winning side of a close game this time. If they didn't give up that last minute winning drive to the Bills, this team would be at .500.
25. Chicago Bears: -62
Last Week: 21
Notes: The Bears were thought to be a playoff team heading into this year. They might be one of the 3 worst teams in the NFC.
26. Atlanta Falcons: -78
Last Week: 26
Notes: The Falcons blow a 21 point lead against the Lions and lose the game. You can argue that the delay of game penalty screwed them, but it should never have gotten to that point.
Last Week: 28
Notes: The Titans continue to play poor football.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -166
Last Week: 30
Notes: It's crazy to me that Tampa Bay is at 1-6, but still only 2 games out of 1st.
30. New York Jets: -168
Last Week: 29
Notes: In past losses, you could argue that the Jets were showing some fight. Now, regardless if it's Smith or Vick at QB, they just look terrible.
31. Jacksonville Jaguars: -185
Last Week: 31
Notes: I can't see the Jags winning another game until week 16 at home against the Titans.
32. Oakland Raiders: -188
Last Week: 32
Notes: And with the Raiders, they don't have any winnable games on their schedule. At least Carr looks decent.
1. Denver Broncos: 187
Last Week: 1
Notes: Week after week they continue to show why they are, by far, the best team in the NFL.
2. New England Patriots: 136
Last Week: 10
Notes: A giant jump in the power rankings, but can you blame me? Brady and company are looking more and more like the Patriots of 2007.
Last Week: 3
Notes: A surprising loss to the Redskins, but the Cowboys still are looking like the best in the NFC.
4. Baltimore Ravens: 129
Last Week: 4
Notes: The Ravens lose a close one to the Bengals. In a tight AFC North, it might cost them the division.
5. Arizona Cardinals: 128
Last Week: 8
Notes: The Cardinals continue to show why they are the real deal this year. Nobody had them winning the NFC West, but they look like the best team in that division by far.
6. Indianapolis Colts: 121
Last Week: 2
Notes: Andrew Luck looks great each week, but the defense gave up 51 points against the Steelers.
7. Detroit Lions: 118
Last Week: 9
Notes: The Lions are known to have a lot of penalties, but the delay of game ended up working out to their advantage. If it didn't happen, they would have lost.
8. Philadelphia Eagles: 114
Last Week: 5
Notes: The Eagles lose a close one against a good Cardinals team. Whether they win the NFC East or not, they should still be a wildcard team.
9. San Diego Chargers: 101
Last Week: 6
Notes: The Chargers aren't looking as dominant as they were prior to their losses against the Chiefs and Broncos. Could be a cause for concern with how great the AFC North is shaping up to be.
10. Green Bay Packers: 87
Last Week: 7
Notes: A loss against the Saints drop the Packers out of 1st.
11. Kansas City Chiefs: 85
Last Week: 13
Notes: It was considered a surprising win against the Chargers, but maybe this Chiefs team is for real and is starting to come together.
12. Buffalo Bills: 66
Last Week: 14
Notes: If you're the Bills, you have to feel good about where you are right now. 5-3 heading into the bye after dominating the Jets.
13. Seattle Seahawks: 62
Last Week: 12
Notes: They won, but the Seahawks continue to struggle.
14. Pittsburgh Steelers: 56
Last Week: 16
Notes: Big Ben is looking out of this world ridiculous right now. The Steelers are known to play up or down to their competition. However, if Big Ben continues to play this way they will be unstoppable.
15. Cincinnati Bengals: 47
Last Week: 15
Notes: The Bengals get a nice bounce back win in an important divisional game against the Ravens.
17. San Francisco 49ers: 4415. Cincinnati Bengals: 47
Last Week: 15
Notes: The Bengals get a nice bounce back win in an important divisional game against the Ravens.
16. Miami Dolphins: 46
Last Week: 17
Notes: The Dolphins beat a team they were supposed to, but this team will be quietly in the playoff race all year.
Last Week: 11
Notes: A bad bye week for the 49ers with the Seahawks and Cardinals winning.
18. Houston Texans: 29
Last Week: 19
Notes: The Texans get back to .500 with a win over the Titans.
19. Cleveland Browns: 28
Last Week: 18
Notes: The Cleveland didn't fall victim to another winless team. It's funny to think the Browns might end up in last place in the AFC North, but could go 9-7 or better.
20. New Orleans Saints: 9
Last Week: 23
Notes: A tale of two teams. The Saints continue to dominate at home, but need to find ways to win on the road.
21. New York Giants: -4
Last Week: 20
Notes: The Giants had a good bye week with losses by the Eagles and Cowboys. However, it's probably too little too late.
22. Carolina Panthers: -40
Last Week: 22
Notes: The Panthers might very well win the NFC South with a record below .500.
Last Week: 25
Notes: McCoy is providing an added spark to this team.
24. Minnesota Vikings: -56
Last Week: 27
Notes: They find themselves on the winning side of a close game this time. If they didn't give up that last minute winning drive to the Bills, this team would be at .500.
25. Chicago Bears: -62
Last Week: 21
Notes: The Bears were thought to be a playoff team heading into this year. They might be one of the 3 worst teams in the NFC.
26. Atlanta Falcons: -78
Last Week: 26
Notes: The Falcons blow a 21 point lead against the Lions and lose the game. You can argue that the delay of game penalty screwed them, but it should never have gotten to that point.
27. St. Louis Rams: -108
Last Week: 24
Notes: After a great game against the Seahawks the Rams look terrible against the Chiefs.
28. Tennessee Titans: -114Last Week: 24
Notes: After a great game against the Seahawks the Rams look terrible against the Chiefs.
Last Week: 28
Notes: The Titans continue to play poor football.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -166
Last Week: 30
Notes: It's crazy to me that Tampa Bay is at 1-6, but still only 2 games out of 1st.
30. New York Jets: -168
Last Week: 29
Notes: In past losses, you could argue that the Jets were showing some fight. Now, regardless if it's Smith or Vick at QB, they just look terrible.
31. Jacksonville Jaguars: -185
Last Week: 31
Notes: I can't see the Jags winning another game until week 16 at home against the Titans.
32. Oakland Raiders: -188
Last Week: 32
Notes: And with the Raiders, they don't have any winnable games on their schedule. At least Carr looks decent.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
NFL Power Rankings - Week 8
This week's power rankings below.
1. Denver Broncos: 155
Last Week: 4
Notes: The new #1 and deservingly so. Easily the best looking team in football right now.
2. Indianapolis Colts: 155
Last Week: 6
Notes: The Colts have won 5 in a row after shutting out a decent Bengals offense.
3. Dallas Cowboys: 154
Last Week: 2
Notes: The Cowboys continue to win and surprise everyone. Nobody thought they'd be at 6-1 at this point in the season.
4. Baltimore Ravens: 154
Last Week: 5
Notes: The Bengals were the favorite going into this season, but the Ravens look like the best in the AFC North.
5. Philadelphia Eagles: 131
Last Week: 3
Notes: The Eagles lose their lead on the bye week with the Cowboys winning. A tough matchup is ahead on the road against the Cardinals.
6. San Diego Chargers: 125
Last Week: 1
Notes: A surprising loss, but the Chargers are for real this year and should find their way into the playoffs.
7. Green Bay Packers: 107
Last Week: 8
Notes: Ever since Rodgers told everyone to "relax" the Packers have been on fire. They've won 4 in a row.
8. Arizona Cardinals: 101
Last Week: 9
Notes: The Cardinals are winning against mediocre teams (outside of the Chargers and arguably the 49ers), but 5-1 is 5-1. They face tougher match ups against the Eagles and Cowboys.
9. Detroit Lions: 100
Last Week: 7
Notes: A win still moves this team down since the above teams just look better overall.
10. New England Patriots: 88
Last Week: 10
Notes: It wasn't a great showing against the Jets, but the Pats win and are 5-2 on the season.
11. San Francisco 49ers: 48
Last Week: 11
Notes: Definitely not the same 49ers team after getting destroyed by the Broncos. In a division with the Seahawks underperforming and the Cardinals not convincing everyone just yet, they still have a shot at winning the NFC West.
12. Seattle Seahawks: 43
Last Week: 13
Notes: The Seahawks are doing something that nobody thought was possible - losing at home. Who would have thought that this team would be 3-3 at this point of the season.
13. Kansas City Chiefs: 41
Last Week: 18
Notes: An impressive win against the Chargers that shows you can't count this team out just yet.
14. Buffalo Bills: 28
Last Week: 20
Notes: The Bills get a great last minute drive under Ortin, something that Manuel wouldn't have been able to do.
15. Cincinnati Bengals: 24
Last Week: 12
Notes: After looking like the best in the NFL, they've been looking like one of the worst.
16. Pittsburgh Steelers: 17
Last Week: 21
18. Cleveland Browns: 11
Last Week: 14
Notes: They go from impressive win to losing (by a decent margin) to the Jaguars. There's the Browns for you.
19. Houston Texans: 0
Last Week: 15
Notes: 3 minutes in the 2nd quarter basically put this game out of hand for the Texans.
20. New York Giants: 0
Last Week: 19
Notes: The Giants could have entered the bye in first place with wins against the Eagles and Cowboys, instead they showed why they aren't in the same class as them right now. Eli looks good, but the O-line is terrible.
21. Chicago Bears: -19
Last Week: 17
Notes: I had the Bears as a wildcard pick in the beginning of the year. Boy was I wrong.
22. Carolina Panthers: -27
Last Week: 16
Notes: In one of the worst football divisions I've seen for a while, the Panthers somehow managed to hold on to first place. A below .500 record might actually win the division.
Last Week: 24
Notes: The Falcons continue to lose. Mike Smith will likely be fired after this year.
27. Minnesota Vikings: -75
Last Week: 25
Notes: A tough loss to take that knocks the Vikings down to 2-5.
28. Tennessee Titans: -86
Last Week: 26
Notes: The Titans face a divisional matchup against the Texans that would move them up 2nd place with a win.
29. New York Jets: -139
Last Week: 29
Notes: The Jets continue to play better, but all they have to show for it is a 1-6 record. Will be interesting to see if Harvin can add an extra spark to this team.
30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -139
Last Week: 31
Notes: Tampa Bay is surprisingly still in this since the NFC South is so bad. They need to beat the Vikings and Browns the next two weeks.
31. Jacksonville Jaguars: -151
Last Week: 32
Notes: The Jaguars get their first win of the year. Hard to imagine this team finishing above 4-12 though.
32. Oakland Raiders: -156
Last Week: 30
Notes: The only winless team.Could they do what the Jags did and beat the Browns? Probably not.
1. Denver Broncos: 155
Last Week: 4
Notes: The new #1 and deservingly so. Easily the best looking team in football right now.
2. Indianapolis Colts: 155
Last Week: 6
Notes: The Colts have won 5 in a row after shutting out a decent Bengals offense.
3. Dallas Cowboys: 154
Last Week: 2
Notes: The Cowboys continue to win and surprise everyone. Nobody thought they'd be at 6-1 at this point in the season.
4. Baltimore Ravens: 154
Last Week: 5
Notes: The Bengals were the favorite going into this season, but the Ravens look like the best in the AFC North.
5. Philadelphia Eagles: 131
Last Week: 3
Notes: The Eagles lose their lead on the bye week with the Cowboys winning. A tough matchup is ahead on the road against the Cardinals.
6. San Diego Chargers: 125
Last Week: 1
Notes: A surprising loss, but the Chargers are for real this year and should find their way into the playoffs.
7. Green Bay Packers: 107
Last Week: 8
Notes: Ever since Rodgers told everyone to "relax" the Packers have been on fire. They've won 4 in a row.
8. Arizona Cardinals: 101
Last Week: 9
Notes: The Cardinals are winning against mediocre teams (outside of the Chargers and arguably the 49ers), but 5-1 is 5-1. They face tougher match ups against the Eagles and Cowboys.
9. Detroit Lions: 100
Last Week: 7
Notes: A win still moves this team down since the above teams just look better overall.
10. New England Patriots: 88
Last Week: 10
Notes: It wasn't a great showing against the Jets, but the Pats win and are 5-2 on the season.
11. San Francisco 49ers: 48
Last Week: 11
Notes: Definitely not the same 49ers team after getting destroyed by the Broncos. In a division with the Seahawks underperforming and the Cardinals not convincing everyone just yet, they still have a shot at winning the NFC West.
12. Seattle Seahawks: 43
Last Week: 13
Notes: The Seahawks are doing something that nobody thought was possible - losing at home. Who would have thought that this team would be 3-3 at this point of the season.
13. Kansas City Chiefs: 41
Last Week: 18
Notes: An impressive win against the Chargers that shows you can't count this team out just yet.
14. Buffalo Bills: 28
Last Week: 20
Notes: The Bills get a great last minute drive under Ortin, something that Manuel wouldn't have been able to do.
15. Cincinnati Bengals: 24
Last Week: 12
Notes: After looking like the best in the NFL, they've been looking like one of the worst.
16. Pittsburgh Steelers: 17
Last Week: 21
Notes: The Steelers have a nice bounce back win against the Texans and move out of the cellar.
17. Miami Dolphins: 14
Last Week: 23
Notes: Watch this team - I think they'll be a wildcard.
17. Miami Dolphins: 14
Last Week: 23
Notes: Watch this team - I think they'll be a wildcard.
Last Week: 14
Notes: They go from impressive win to losing (by a decent margin) to the Jaguars. There's the Browns for you.
19. Houston Texans: 0
Last Week: 15
Notes: 3 minutes in the 2nd quarter basically put this game out of hand for the Texans.
20. New York Giants: 0
Last Week: 19
Notes: The Giants could have entered the bye in first place with wins against the Eagles and Cowboys, instead they showed why they aren't in the same class as them right now. Eli looks good, but the O-line is terrible.
21. Chicago Bears: -19
Last Week: 17
Notes: I had the Bears as a wildcard pick in the beginning of the year. Boy was I wrong.
22. Carolina Panthers: -27
Last Week: 16
Notes: In one of the worst football divisions I've seen for a while, the Panthers somehow managed to hold on to first place. A below .500 record might actually win the division.
23. New Orleans Saints: -30
Last Week: 22
Notes: The Saints lose their lead and the game. What happened to this team?
24. St. Louis Rams: -62
Last Week: 27
Notes: That fake punt was one of the most exciting (if not the most) plays of the week. An impressive win on the road against the Seahawks.
25, Washington Redskins: -62
Last Week: 28
Notes: McCoy > Cousins and showed why in a win against the Titans.
26. Atlanta Falcons: -68Last Week: 22
Notes: The Saints lose their lead and the game. What happened to this team?
24. St. Louis Rams: -62
Last Week: 27
Notes: That fake punt was one of the most exciting (if not the most) plays of the week. An impressive win on the road against the Seahawks.
25, Washington Redskins: -62
Last Week: 28
Notes: McCoy > Cousins and showed why in a win against the Titans.
Last Week: 24
Notes: The Falcons continue to lose. Mike Smith will likely be fired after this year.
Last Week: 25
Notes: A tough loss to take that knocks the Vikings down to 2-5.
28. Tennessee Titans: -86
Last Week: 26
Notes: The Titans face a divisional matchup against the Texans that would move them up 2nd place with a win.
29. New York Jets: -139
Last Week: 29
Notes: The Jets continue to play better, but all they have to show for it is a 1-6 record. Will be interesting to see if Harvin can add an extra spark to this team.
30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -139
Last Week: 31
Notes: Tampa Bay is surprisingly still in this since the NFC South is so bad. They need to beat the Vikings and Browns the next two weeks.
31. Jacksonville Jaguars: -151
Last Week: 32
Notes: The Jaguars get their first win of the year. Hard to imagine this team finishing above 4-12 though.
32. Oakland Raiders: -156
Last Week: 30
Notes: The only winless team.Could they do what the Jags did and beat the Browns? Probably not.
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
NFL Power Rankings - Week 7
This week's power rankings below.
1. San Diego Chargers: 138
Last Week: 1
Notes: That game against the Raiders was a lot closer than expected, but the Chargers now find themselves at 5-1 atop a division that has the Broncos.
2. Dallas Cowboys: 127
Last Week: 2
Notes: That win against the Seahawks on the road shows that this Cowboys team is for real. The NFC East was expected to be one of the worst divisions in football, but it looks like there are two playoff teams coming from this division.
3. Philadelphia Eagles: 126
Last Week: 3
Notes: The Eagles looked great on both sides of the ball against the Giants. They'll be rooting for the Giants while they're on the bye.
4. Denver Broncos: 118
Last Week: 4
Notes: The Broncos went and beat the Jets like everyone expected to. The Week 8 match-up against the Chargers will be an exciting one.
5. Baltimore Ravens: 117
Last Week: 8
Notes: A complete annihilation of Tampa Bay. They're looking like the best team in the AFC North.
6. Indianapolis Colts: 93
Last Week: 6
Notes: Colts showed why they're still the best team in the AFC South with a win over the Texans.
7. Detroit Lions: 84
Last Week: 12
Notes: The Lions look like one of the better teams in the NFC. Their main issue is getting in their own way with penalties and stupid mistakes. If they can avoid these, they should be a playoff team.
8. Green Bay Packers: 81
Last Week: 9
Notes: A close one against Miami, but the Packers now have won 3 in a row.
9. Arizona Cardinals: 75
Last Week: 10
Notes: The Cardinals are 4-1, but have a point differential of only 10. They should hold on to first place in the NFC West with an upcoming game against the Raiders.
10. New England Patriots: 71
Last Week: 16
Notes: Two convincing wins in a row. It's obvious now that the Pats are still the best in the AFC East.
11. San Francisco 49ers: 68
Last Week: 14
Notes: The 49ers pulled out a win against the Rams and maintain 2nd place in the NFC West.
12. Cincinnati Bengals: 66
Last Week: 7
Notes: And the Bengals are the first tie of 2014. With the way that the Ravens and Browns are playing, that tie could hurt more than help them.
13. Seattle Seahawks: 50
Last Week: 5
Notes: Are the Cowboys really that good are is Seattle just not as good as last year? A combination of both. The injuries for the Seahawks are really effecting them.
14. Cleveland Browns: 49
Last Week: 20
Notes: This is the first time in years the Browns look destined to finish outside of last place in the AFC North.
15. Houston Texans: 17
Last Week: 13
Notes: The Texans kept it close against the Colts, but they have the making of a .500 team.
16. Carolina Panthers: 14
Last Week: 18
Notes: While the tie might hurt the Bengals, it might help the Panthers in a very weak NFC South.
17. Chicago Bears: 14
Last Week: 24
Notes: The Bears bounced back with a win against the Falcons and are a game out of first.
18. Kansas City Chiefs: 13
Last Week: 19
Notes: The Chiefs have a very tough game ahead - on the road against the Chargers. They need to win this to have any chance for the playoffs.
19. New York Giants: 10
Last Week: 11
Notes: After looking great the last 3 weeks, the Giants looked like an 0-16 team against the Eagles. They need to have a short memory and find a way to win on the road against a red hot Cowboys team. If they lose this one, it makes it almost impossible for them to win the division.
20. Buffalo Bills: 7
Last Week: 15
Notes: The Bills are slowly regressing back to reality. Ugly loss against the Pats.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: -10
Last Week: 17
24. Atlanta Falcons: -26
Last Week: 21
Notes: After looking like a potential playoff team, the Falcons look more like they did last year.
25. Minnesota Vikings: -59
Last Week: 25
Notes: There's no arguing that the Vikings are an improved team, but hard to imagine that they'll finish anywhere but last place.
26. Tennessee Titans: -79
Last Week: 28
Notes: It was against the Jaguars, but a win is a win.
32. Jacksonville Jaguars: -194
Last Week: 32
Notes: Going into 2014, a home game against the Browns looked like a win for the Jags. Now it looks like an impossible feat.
1. San Diego Chargers: 138
Last Week: 1
Notes: That game against the Raiders was a lot closer than expected, but the Chargers now find themselves at 5-1 atop a division that has the Broncos.
2. Dallas Cowboys: 127
Last Week: 2
Notes: That win against the Seahawks on the road shows that this Cowboys team is for real. The NFC East was expected to be one of the worst divisions in football, but it looks like there are two playoff teams coming from this division.
3. Philadelphia Eagles: 126
Last Week: 3
Notes: The Eagles looked great on both sides of the ball against the Giants. They'll be rooting for the Giants while they're on the bye.
4. Denver Broncos: 118
Last Week: 4
Notes: The Broncos went and beat the Jets like everyone expected to. The Week 8 match-up against the Chargers will be an exciting one.
5. Baltimore Ravens: 117
Last Week: 8
Notes: A complete annihilation of Tampa Bay. They're looking like the best team in the AFC North.
6. Indianapolis Colts: 93
Last Week: 6
Notes: Colts showed why they're still the best team in the AFC South with a win over the Texans.
7. Detroit Lions: 84
Last Week: 12
Notes: The Lions look like one of the better teams in the NFC. Their main issue is getting in their own way with penalties and stupid mistakes. If they can avoid these, they should be a playoff team.
8. Green Bay Packers: 81
Last Week: 9
Notes: A close one against Miami, but the Packers now have won 3 in a row.
9. Arizona Cardinals: 75
Last Week: 10
Notes: The Cardinals are 4-1, but have a point differential of only 10. They should hold on to first place in the NFC West with an upcoming game against the Raiders.
10. New England Patriots: 71
Last Week: 16
Notes: Two convincing wins in a row. It's obvious now that the Pats are still the best in the AFC East.
11. San Francisco 49ers: 68
Last Week: 14
Notes: The 49ers pulled out a win against the Rams and maintain 2nd place in the NFC West.
12. Cincinnati Bengals: 66
Last Week: 7
Notes: And the Bengals are the first tie of 2014. With the way that the Ravens and Browns are playing, that tie could hurt more than help them.
Last Week: 5
Notes: Are the Cowboys really that good are is Seattle just not as good as last year? A combination of both. The injuries for the Seahawks are really effecting them.
14. Cleveland Browns: 49
Last Week: 20
Notes: This is the first time in years the Browns look destined to finish outside of last place in the AFC North.
15. Houston Texans: 17
Last Week: 13
Notes: The Texans kept it close against the Colts, but they have the making of a .500 team.
16. Carolina Panthers: 14
Last Week: 18
Notes: While the tie might hurt the Bengals, it might help the Panthers in a very weak NFC South.
17. Chicago Bears: 14
Last Week: 24
Notes: The Bears bounced back with a win against the Falcons and are a game out of first.
18. Kansas City Chiefs: 13
Last Week: 19
Notes: The Chiefs have a very tough game ahead - on the road against the Chargers. They need to win this to have any chance for the playoffs.
19. New York Giants: 10
Last Week: 11
Notes: After looking great the last 3 weeks, the Giants looked like an 0-16 team against the Eagles. They need to have a short memory and find a way to win on the road against a red hot Cowboys team. If they lose this one, it makes it almost impossible for them to win the division.
Last Week: 15
Notes: The Bills are slowly regressing back to reality. Ugly loss against the Pats.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: -10
Last Week: 17
Notes: The Steelers have talent, but they always seem to underestimate their competition. They look like a last place team.
22. New Orleans Saints: -14
Last Week: 23
Notes: The Saints next 9 games are all against teams with a .500 record or better. Ouch.
23. Miami Dolphins: -19
Last Week: 22
Notes: They lost, but the Dolphins looked decent against a good Packers team.
22. New Orleans Saints: -14
Last Week: 23
Notes: The Saints next 9 games are all against teams with a .500 record or better. Ouch.
23. Miami Dolphins: -19
Last Week: 22
Notes: They lost, but the Dolphins looked decent against a good Packers team.
Last Week: 21
Notes: After looking like a potential playoff team, the Falcons look more like they did last year.
Last Week: 25
Notes: There's no arguing that the Vikings are an improved team, but hard to imagine that they'll finish anywhere but last place.
26. Tennessee Titans: -79
Last Week: 28
Notes: It was against the Jaguars, but a win is a win.
27. St. Louis Rams: -89
Last Week: 26
Notes: Instead of being close to making a great comeback, they instead blew a lead. Regardless, they are now at 1-5.
28, Washington Redskins: -99
Last Week: 27
Notes: The Redskins have a winnable game next week against the Titans at home. It's one of the few games left on their schedule I can actually envision them winning.
29. New York Jets: -127
Last Week: 30
Notes: It wasn't as big of a blowout as I expected, but the Jets continue to look terrible.
30. Oakland Raiders: -130
Last Week: 31
Notes: The Raiders move up with a loss as they made the game against the Chargers surprisingly competitive.
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -139
Last Week: 29
Notes: That game against the Steelers looks more and more like a fluke.
Last Week: 26
Notes: Instead of being close to making a great comeback, they instead blew a lead. Regardless, they are now at 1-5.
28, Washington Redskins: -99
Last Week: 27
Notes: The Redskins have a winnable game next week against the Titans at home. It's one of the few games left on their schedule I can actually envision them winning.
29. New York Jets: -127
Last Week: 30
Notes: It wasn't as big of a blowout as I expected, but the Jets continue to look terrible.
30. Oakland Raiders: -130
Last Week: 31
Notes: The Raiders move up with a loss as they made the game against the Chargers surprisingly competitive.
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -139
Last Week: 29
Notes: That game against the Steelers looks more and more like a fluke.
Last Week: 32
Notes: Going into 2014, a home game against the Browns looked like a win for the Jags. Now it looks like an impossible feat.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
NFL Power Rankings - Week 6
This week's power rankings below.
1. San Diego Chargers: 125
Last Week: 3
Notes: The new #1 and deservingly so. Yes it was a win against the Jets, but the Chargers look flat out dominant. They even found a way to run the ball effectively against them.
2. Dallas Cowboys: 97
Last Week: 5
Notes: As a Giants fan, it pains me to have them this high, but there's no arguing that they've been playing great football. They have a very difficult game ahead on the road against the Seahawks.
3. Philadelphia Eagles: 79
Last Week: 8
Notes: They made you sweat it out, but the Eagles beat the Rams and maintain first place in NFC East.
4. Denver Broncos: 74
Last Week: 12
Notes: The Broncos only loss this season came on the road against the Seahawks. The toughest game on anyone's schedule.
5. Seattle Seahawks: 72
Last Week: 9
Notes: They move up to 3-1 after a road win against the Redskins. It was good to see them beat a team on the road after losing badly to the Chargers, but it wasn't much of a convincing road win. After Dallas, they have two games on the road against the Rams and Panthers.
6. Indianapolis Colts: 68
Last Week: 10
Notes: The Colts are back and are winners of 3 in a row.
7. Cincinnati Bengals: 66
Last Week: 1
Notes: The Bengals found themselves playing against the Patriots when they were hungrier than ever for a win.
8. Baltimore Ravens: 66
Last Week: 2
Notes: The Ravens lose to the Colts, but they have still been playing impressive football so far. Their two losses were by 1 possession and against the Bengals and Colts
9. Green Bay Packers: 58
Last Week: 19
Notes: The Packers win big for their second straight week and look like the team to beat in the NFC North.
10. Arizona Cardinals: 55
Last Week: 4
Notes: Does anyone realize how brutal the Cardinals' schedule has been, but they still are at 3-1? Their first 3 wins came against the Chargers (4-1), Giants (3-2), and 49ers (3-2) and lost their first game against a very good Broncos team on the road. Their schedule gets easier with games against the Redskins and Raiders. This team can easily be 5-1 after 6 games.
11. New York Giants: 52
Last Week: 14
Notes: The Giants west coast offense seems to be coming together. The team has put together 3 straight wins. Coming up are important divisional games against the Eagles and Cowboys (both on the road). Win the next two, would mean the Giants go into their bye week first place in the division.
12. Detroit Lions: 50
Last Week: 6
Notes: The Lions let their lead slip away against the Bills and are now tied with the Packers for first.
13. Houston Texans: 47
Last Week: 7
Notes: The Texans are certainly an improved team from last year, but not quite a playoff team just yet. They have the makings of an 8-8 team.
14. San Francisco 49ers: 44
Last Week: 15
Notes: They've won 2 in a row, but this 49ers team still doesn't look like the 49ers team of last year. With the way the Cardinals are playing and the Seahawks being the Seahawks, a playoff birth isn't a guaranteed thing this year.
15. Buffalo Bills: 37
Last Week: 17
Notes: A big win for the Bills that keeps them tied with the Patriots for first place.
16. New England Patriots: 36
Last Week: 22
Notes: The Patriots looked like the Patriots we all expected against the Bengals, but is it for real? A big game on the road against the Bills will decide that.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers: 26
Last Week: 18
18. Carolina Panthers: 14
Last Week: 23
Notes: The Panthers come back big against the Bears and are now in first place in the NFC South.
19. Kansas City Chiefs: 13
Last Week: 13
Notes: With the way the Chargers and Broncos are playing, it will be very difficult for this Chiefs team to get into the playoffs against this year.
20. Cleveland Browns: 8
Last Week: 24
Notes: .Don't look now, but the Browns are back at .500. A win at home against the Steelers would be huge.
21. Atlanta Falcons: 3
Last Week: 11
Notes: The same old story with the Falcons: great offense, terrible defense. They have the makings of a .500 team.
22. Miami Dolphins: -1
Last Week: 21
Notes: The Dolphins had a losing bye week with wins by the Bills and Pats. Tough games ahead against the Packers and Bears.
23. New Orleans Saints: -14
Last Week: 26
Notes: The Saints (barely) win against Tampa Bay. They are sitting at 2-3, but they (fortunately) play in a division with other mediocre teams.
24. Chicago Bears: -20
Last Week: 20
Notes: Very tough loss to overcome.
25. Minnesota Vikings: -30
Last Week: 16
Notes: The Vikings need to shake off the beating from the Packers and find a way to beat the Lions.
30. New York Jets: -98
Last Week: 28
Notes: The Jets look downright terrible. The QB situation is a mess. At 1-4, things don't get easier with games against the Broncos and Pats.
31. Oakland Raiders: -112
Last Week: 31
Notes: A tough game after the bye week against the red hot Chargers.
32. Jacksonville Jaguars: -177
Last Week: 32
Notes: .The Jaguars have a big opportunity for their first win with a game against the Titans
1. San Diego Chargers: 125
Last Week: 3
Notes: The new #1 and deservingly so. Yes it was a win against the Jets, but the Chargers look flat out dominant. They even found a way to run the ball effectively against them.
2. Dallas Cowboys: 97
Last Week: 5
Notes: As a Giants fan, it pains me to have them this high, but there's no arguing that they've been playing great football. They have a very difficult game ahead on the road against the Seahawks.
3. Philadelphia Eagles: 79
Last Week: 8
Notes: They made you sweat it out, but the Eagles beat the Rams and maintain first place in NFC East.
4. Denver Broncos: 74
Last Week: 12
Notes: The Broncos only loss this season came on the road against the Seahawks. The toughest game on anyone's schedule.
5. Seattle Seahawks: 72
Last Week: 9
Notes: They move up to 3-1 after a road win against the Redskins. It was good to see them beat a team on the road after losing badly to the Chargers, but it wasn't much of a convincing road win. After Dallas, they have two games on the road against the Rams and Panthers.
6. Indianapolis Colts: 68
Last Week: 10
Notes: The Colts are back and are winners of 3 in a row.
7. Cincinnati Bengals: 66
Last Week: 1
Notes: The Bengals found themselves playing against the Patriots when they were hungrier than ever for a win.
8. Baltimore Ravens: 66
Last Week: 2
Notes: The Ravens lose to the Colts, but they have still been playing impressive football so far. Their two losses were by 1 possession and against the Bengals and Colts
9. Green Bay Packers: 58
Last Week: 19
Notes: The Packers win big for their second straight week and look like the team to beat in the NFC North.
10. Arizona Cardinals: 55
Last Week: 4
Notes: Does anyone realize how brutal the Cardinals' schedule has been, but they still are at 3-1? Their first 3 wins came against the Chargers (4-1), Giants (3-2), and 49ers (3-2) and lost their first game against a very good Broncos team on the road. Their schedule gets easier with games against the Redskins and Raiders. This team can easily be 5-1 after 6 games.
11. New York Giants: 52
Last Week: 14
Notes: The Giants west coast offense seems to be coming together. The team has put together 3 straight wins. Coming up are important divisional games against the Eagles and Cowboys (both on the road). Win the next two, would mean the Giants go into their bye week first place in the division.
Last Week: 6
Notes: The Lions let their lead slip away against the Bills and are now tied with the Packers for first.
13. Houston Texans: 47
Last Week: 7
Notes: The Texans are certainly an improved team from last year, but not quite a playoff team just yet. They have the makings of an 8-8 team.
14. San Francisco 49ers: 44
Last Week: 15
Notes: They've won 2 in a row, but this 49ers team still doesn't look like the 49ers team of last year. With the way the Cardinals are playing and the Seahawks being the Seahawks, a playoff birth isn't a guaranteed thing this year.
Last Week: 17
Notes: A big win for the Bills that keeps them tied with the Patriots for first place.
16. New England Patriots: 36
Last Week: 22
Notes: The Patriots looked like the Patriots we all expected against the Bengals, but is it for real? A big game on the road against the Bills will decide that.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers: 26
Last Week: 18
Notes: The Steelers' win, but their biggest problem is that they play down (or up) to their competition. I can almost guarantee they'll lose to the Browns for this reason.
Last Week: 23
Notes: The Panthers come back big against the Bears and are now in first place in the NFC South.
19. Kansas City Chiefs: 13
Last Week: 13
Notes: With the way the Chargers and Broncos are playing, it will be very difficult for this Chiefs team to get into the playoffs against this year.
Last Week: 24
Notes: .Don't look now, but the Browns are back at .500. A win at home against the Steelers would be huge.
21. Atlanta Falcons: 3
Last Week: 11
Notes: The same old story with the Falcons: great offense, terrible defense. They have the makings of a .500 team.
Last Week: 21
Notes: The Dolphins had a losing bye week with wins by the Bills and Pats. Tough games ahead against the Packers and Bears.
23. New Orleans Saints: -14
Last Week: 26
Notes: The Saints (barely) win against Tampa Bay. They are sitting at 2-3, but they (fortunately) play in a division with other mediocre teams.
24. Chicago Bears: -20
Last Week: 20
Notes: Very tough loss to overcome.
25. Minnesota Vikings: -30
Last Week: 16
Notes: The Vikings need to shake off the beating from the Packers and find a way to beat the Lions.
26. St. Louis Rams: -60
Last Week: 25
Notes: A good comeback effort, but the loss drops the Rams to 1-4.
27, Washington Redskins: -74
Last Week: 27
Notes: The Redskins didn't look as terrible as they did against the Giants, but with wins by all 3 NFC East teams, they have a long way to go to catch up with the rest of the division.
28. Tennessee Titans: -91
Last Week: 29
Notes: The Panthers had a great comeback against the Bears, but the Browns comeback against the Titans was even better. Unfortunately for the Titans, this drops them at 1-4.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -93
Last Week: 30
Notes: They couldn't hold on against the Saints and are now last in the NFC South.
Last Week: 25
Notes: A good comeback effort, but the loss drops the Rams to 1-4.
27, Washington Redskins: -74
Last Week: 27
Notes: The Redskins didn't look as terrible as they did against the Giants, but with wins by all 3 NFC East teams, they have a long way to go to catch up with the rest of the division.
28. Tennessee Titans: -91
Last Week: 29
Notes: The Panthers had a great comeback against the Bears, but the Browns comeback against the Titans was even better. Unfortunately for the Titans, this drops them at 1-4.
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -93
Last Week: 30
Notes: They couldn't hold on against the Saints and are now last in the NFC South.
Last Week: 28
Notes: The Jets look downright terrible. The QB situation is a mess. At 1-4, things don't get easier with games against the Broncos and Pats.
31. Oakland Raiders: -112
Last Week: 31
Notes: A tough game after the bye week against the red hot Chargers.
32. Jacksonville Jaguars: -177
Last Week: 32
Notes: .The Jaguars have a big opportunity for their first win with a game against the Titans
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
NFL Power Rankings - Week 5
The below power rankings are based on a formula that includes record, strength of schedule, net points, home & away records and other factors instead of doing an opinion based power ranking. Below are the rankings heading into week 5.
1. Cincinnati Bengals: 107
Notes: Normally a match-up against New England would be considered one of the hardest games on a schedule, but the Bengals are the clear favorite here.
2. Baltimore Ravens: 98
Notes: The Ravens look much improved over their mediocre performance from last year.
3. San Diego Chargers: 84
Notes: Philip Rivers has been dominant. Could the Chargers actually win the AFC West?
4. Arizona Cardinals: 81
Notes: Who would have thought that the Cardinals would be leading the NFC West at this point of the season? It's early, but still a surprise.
5. Dallas Cowboys: 74
Notes: Another surprise team. The Cowboys were expected to be one of the worst this year, but have started off at 3-1.
6. Detroit Lions: 68
Notes: The Lions are the team to beat in the NFC North right now.
7. Houston Texans: 55
Notes: The Texans avoided the trend of last year, starting off 2-0 and then going 0-14, with a win against the Bills.
8. Philadelphia Eagles: 53
Notes: The Eagles lost a tough one against the 49ers. After the Rams, they have an important divisional game against the Giants.
9. Seattle Seahawks: 42
Notes: No surprise they've been dominant at home. The away loss against the Chargers is a little concerning. They should turn it around though against the Redskins.
10. Indianapolis Colts: 41
Notes: After 0-2, the Colts win big their next two games (although against mediocre teams).
11. Atlanta Falcons: 38
Notes: In a surprisingly sub-par NFC South, the Falcons look like the best team.
12. Denver Broncos: 33
Notes: The Broncos have an exciting match-up against the undefeated Cardinals. Will the Broncos bring them "back to reality?"
13. Kansas City Chiefs: 33
Notes: The Chiefs absolutely destroyed the Patriots and showed that they're still contenders.
14. New York Giants: 32
Notes: The Giants looked good their last 2 games. They have a tough schedule ahead which will decide their playoff fate.
15. San Francisco 49ers: 19
Notes: I know the 49ers started off mediocre last year, but this 49ers team doesn't look as good as last year's team. The win against the Eagles might bring this team back on track though.
16. Minnesota Vikings: 17
Notes: A much improved Vikings team this year.
17. Buffalo Bills: 14
Notes: The Bills are going with Orton. Smart decision.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: 8
Notes: A heartbreaking loss against the Bucs. In what's expected to be a tight AFC North race, this could be the deciding game.
19. Green Bay Packers: 6
Notes: Aaron Rodgers told everyone to relax and he proved himself to be right. Complete inhalation against the Bears.
20. Chicago Bears: 2
Notes: A tough loss against the Packers. Tough games ahead on the road against the Panthers and Falcons.
21. Miami Dolphins: -1
Notes: The Dolphins looked like they had something to prove with that win against the Raiders.
22. New England Patriots: -10
Notes: The Patriots look mediocre at best. This might be the first year we seem struggle to win the division, if they win it at all.
23. Carolina Panthers: -13
Notes: The Panthers are really struggling against AFC North opponents.
24. Cleveland Browns: - 13
Notes: The Browns have a winnable game against the Titans in hopes to get back to .500.
28. New York Jets: -52
Notes: They showed signs of a potential comeback, but the Jets couldn't get it done. Smith isn't close to being a top tier quarterback, but he is showing some signs of improvement. Can't fault him for frequent dropped passes by Ivory and other teammates.
29. Tennessee Titans: -65
Notes: A bad loss against the Colts that shows why they aren't in the same class.
30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -72
Notes: What a win against the Steelers. Might be the highlight of their year.
31. Oakland Raiders: -112
Notes: Would be the worst team in the league if it wasn't for how bad the Jaguars are playing.
32. Jacksonville Jaguars: -154
Notes: The Jaguars look like the same Jaguars of last year, but not sure I can picture this team winning 4 games.
1. Cincinnati Bengals: 107
Notes: Normally a match-up against New England would be considered one of the hardest games on a schedule, but the Bengals are the clear favorite here.
2. Baltimore Ravens: 98
Notes: The Ravens look much improved over their mediocre performance from last year.
3. San Diego Chargers: 84
Notes: Philip Rivers has been dominant. Could the Chargers actually win the AFC West?
4. Arizona Cardinals: 81
Notes: Who would have thought that the Cardinals would be leading the NFC West at this point of the season? It's early, but still a surprise.
5. Dallas Cowboys: 74
Notes: Another surprise team. The Cowboys were expected to be one of the worst this year, but have started off at 3-1.
6. Detroit Lions: 68
Notes: The Lions are the team to beat in the NFC North right now.
Notes: The Texans avoided the trend of last year, starting off 2-0 and then going 0-14, with a win against the Bills.
8. Philadelphia Eagles: 53
Notes: The Eagles lost a tough one against the 49ers. After the Rams, they have an important divisional game against the Giants.
9. Seattle Seahawks: 42
Notes: No surprise they've been dominant at home. The away loss against the Chargers is a little concerning. They should turn it around though against the Redskins.
10. Indianapolis Colts: 41
Notes: After 0-2, the Colts win big their next two games (although against mediocre teams).
11. Atlanta Falcons: 38
Notes: In a surprisingly sub-par NFC South, the Falcons look like the best team.
Notes: The Broncos have an exciting match-up against the undefeated Cardinals. Will the Broncos bring them "back to reality?"
13. Kansas City Chiefs: 33
Notes: The Chiefs absolutely destroyed the Patriots and showed that they're still contenders.
14. New York Giants: 32
Notes: The Giants looked good their last 2 games. They have a tough schedule ahead which will decide their playoff fate.
15. San Francisco 49ers: 19
Notes: I know the 49ers started off mediocre last year, but this 49ers team doesn't look as good as last year's team. The win against the Eagles might bring this team back on track though.
Notes: A much improved Vikings team this year.
17. Buffalo Bills: 14
Notes: The Bills are going with Orton. Smart decision.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: 8
Notes: A heartbreaking loss against the Bucs. In what's expected to be a tight AFC North race, this could be the deciding game.
Notes: Aaron Rodgers told everyone to relax and he proved himself to be right. Complete inhalation against the Bears.
20. Chicago Bears: 2
Notes: A tough loss against the Packers. Tough games ahead on the road against the Panthers and Falcons.
21. Miami Dolphins: -1
Notes: The Dolphins looked like they had something to prove with that win against the Raiders.
22. New England Patriots: -10
Notes: The Patriots look mediocre at best. This might be the first year we seem struggle to win the division, if they win it at all.
23. Carolina Panthers: -13
Notes: The Panthers are really struggling against AFC North opponents.
24. Cleveland Browns: - 13
Notes: The Browns have a winnable game against the Titans in hopes to get back to .500.
25. St. Louis Rams: -39
Notes: The Rams look on pace to be in last place again this year.
26. New Orleans Saints: -40
Notes: The Saints are in trouble already only 4 games in. They need to be Tampa Bay next week.
27, Washington Redskins: -49
Notes: After a couple of great games, Cousins looked terrible.
Notes: The Rams look on pace to be in last place again this year.
26. New Orleans Saints: -40
Notes: The Saints are in trouble already only 4 games in. They need to be Tampa Bay next week.
27, Washington Redskins: -49
Notes: After a couple of great games, Cousins looked terrible.
Notes: They showed signs of a potential comeback, but the Jets couldn't get it done. Smith isn't close to being a top tier quarterback, but he is showing some signs of improvement. Can't fault him for frequent dropped passes by Ivory and other teammates.
29. Tennessee Titans: -65
Notes: A bad loss against the Colts that shows why they aren't in the same class.
30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: -72
Notes: What a win against the Steelers. Might be the highlight of their year.
31. Oakland Raiders: -112
Notes: Would be the worst team in the league if it wasn't for how bad the Jaguars are playing.
32. Jacksonville Jaguars: -154
Notes: The Jaguars look like the same Jaguars of last year, but not sure I can picture this team winning 4 games.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
NFL Standings Prediction - 2014 Season
It's the happiest time of the year as NFL season is about to begin! Will the Seahawks repeat and win back to back Super Bowls or will there be another dominate team this year? Our predictions for the 2014 NFL Season is below (including seeding in paranthesis)
AFC
AFC East
1. New England Patriots: 11-5 (2)
2. Miami Dolphins: 8-8
3. New York Jets: 6-10
4. Buffalo Bills: 4-12
AFC North
1. Baltimore Ravens: 10-6 (4)
2. Cincinnati Bengals: 9-7 (6)
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: 8-8
4. Cleveland Browns: 3-13
AFC South
1. Indianapolis Colts: 11-5 (3)
2. Tennessee Titans: 8-8
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: 6-10
4. Houston Texans: 6-10
AFC West
1. Denver Broncos: 14-2 (1)
2. San Diego Chargers: 10-6 (5)
3. Kansas City Chiefs: 7-9
4. Oakland Raiders: 6-10
NFC
NFC East
1. New York Giants: 10-6 (4)
2. Philadelphia Eagles: 7-9
3. Washington Redskins: 7-9
4. Dallas Cowboys: 6-10
NFC North
1. Green Bay Packers: 12-4 (3)
2. Chicago Bears: 11-5 (5)
3. Detroit Lions: 9-7
4. Minnesota Vikings: 4-12
NFC South
1. New Orleans Saints: 13-3 (2)
2. Carolina Panthers: 10-6
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 6-10
4. Atlanta Falcons: 6-10
NFC West
1. Seattle Seahawks: 14-2 (1)
2. San Francisco 49ers: 11-5 (6)
3. Arizona Cardinals: 9-7
4. St. Louis Rams: 7-9
Wild Card Round
Bengals (6) defeat Colts (3)
Chargers (5) defeat Ravens (4)
49ers (6) defeat Packers (3)
Giants (4) defeat Bears (5)
Divisional Round
Broncos (1) defeat Bengals (6)
Patriots (2) defeat Chargers (5)
Seahawks (1) defeat 49ers (6)
Saints (2) defeat Giants (4)
Championship Round
Broncos (1) defeat Patriots (2)
Saints (2) defeat Seahawks (1)
Super Bowl:
Broncos (1) defeat Saints (2)
AFC
AFC East
1. New England Patriots: 11-5 (2)
2. Miami Dolphins: 8-8
3. New York Jets: 6-10
4. Buffalo Bills: 4-12
AFC North
1. Baltimore Ravens: 10-6 (4)
2. Cincinnati Bengals: 9-7 (6)
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: 8-8
4. Cleveland Browns: 3-13
AFC South
1. Indianapolis Colts: 11-5 (3)
2. Tennessee Titans: 8-8
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: 6-10
4. Houston Texans: 6-10
AFC West
1. Denver Broncos: 14-2 (1)
2. San Diego Chargers: 10-6 (5)
3. Kansas City Chiefs: 7-9
4. Oakland Raiders: 6-10
NFC
NFC East
1. New York Giants: 10-6 (4)
2. Philadelphia Eagles: 7-9
3. Washington Redskins: 7-9
4. Dallas Cowboys: 6-10
NFC North
1. Green Bay Packers: 12-4 (3)
2. Chicago Bears: 11-5 (5)
3. Detroit Lions: 9-7
4. Minnesota Vikings: 4-12
NFC South
1. New Orleans Saints: 13-3 (2)
2. Carolina Panthers: 10-6
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 6-10
4. Atlanta Falcons: 6-10
NFC West
1. Seattle Seahawks: 14-2 (1)
2. San Francisco 49ers: 11-5 (6)
3. Arizona Cardinals: 9-7
4. St. Louis Rams: 7-9
Wild Card Round
Bengals (6) defeat Colts (3)
Chargers (5) defeat Ravens (4)
49ers (6) defeat Packers (3)
Giants (4) defeat Bears (5)
Divisional Round
Broncos (1) defeat Bengals (6)
Patriots (2) defeat Chargers (5)
Seahawks (1) defeat 49ers (6)
Saints (2) defeat Giants (4)
Championship Round
Broncos (1) defeat Patriots (2)
Saints (2) defeat Seahawks (1)
Super Bowl:
Broncos (1) defeat Saints (2)
Friday, May 16, 2014
Hell's Kitchen Season 12 Power Rankings
We're down to 10 chefs left in Hell's Kitchen! It's always tough to predict who Chef Ramsey will go with, but here are the current Power Rankings of chefs.
10. Gabriel - I don't think he'll be the next one out, but he is the weakest chef left. Chef Ramsey likes Chefs who show improvement, which is why Gabriel is still around, but I think he's the weakest in the bunch.
9. Rich - Hard to put Rich above the bottom 2 considering he was very close to being eliminated last episode. He might make it the next couple of rounds, but he won't be the winning chef.
8. Scott - I can't stand Scott. I think he's extremely cocky, but doesn't have the skills to back it up. Chefs like Anton are also very cocky, but at least they're talented. Scott, as Gabriel mentioned, just does a lot of talking and doesn't really have a lot of talent. He'll be gone soon.
7. Sandra - The weakest of the, very strong, girls team. She's kind of middle of the road, but once they weed out a couple of more chefs, she'll find herself struggling to compete.
6. Keisha - Has some cooking talent, but is inconsistent. Also, can you imagine her leading a brigade? You can't understand a word she's saying.
5. Jason - Talented chef, but has screwed up a couple of times and has a very short temper. I think the latter will get him eliminated before the top 3 or 4 (even possibly before the "black jackets" get handed out).
4. Rochelle - She's been flying under the radar, but I think she's impressed Chef Ramsey. She keeps cool in the kitchen, can cook, and has shown signs of leadership. Once she gets thrown in "full force", it will be interesting how well she does.
3. Melanie - Melanie has been very strong throughout the competition on both the cooking and leadership side. However, there's something lacking that makes her just under the top 2 chefs.
2. Joy - I actually think she'll win it all. First couple of services she looked like one of the weaker chefs, but has really stepped up. She's a good leader (although has had a couple of shows where she's lost her temper) and can cook.
1. Anton - Definitely the strongest out of the chefs. Every season though, Chef seems to go for another chef who isn't the obvious choice, which doesn't bode well for Anton if he repeats this pattern. The last episode was the first one that made me have some slight doubts about Anton (how he made things confusing in the kitchen). Regardless, 99% of the time he puts out good food and can delegate in the kitchen.
10. Gabriel - I don't think he'll be the next one out, but he is the weakest chef left. Chef Ramsey likes Chefs who show improvement, which is why Gabriel is still around, but I think he's the weakest in the bunch.
9. Rich - Hard to put Rich above the bottom 2 considering he was very close to being eliminated last episode. He might make it the next couple of rounds, but he won't be the winning chef.
8. Scott - I can't stand Scott. I think he's extremely cocky, but doesn't have the skills to back it up. Chefs like Anton are also very cocky, but at least they're talented. Scott, as Gabriel mentioned, just does a lot of talking and doesn't really have a lot of talent. He'll be gone soon.
7. Sandra - The weakest of the, very strong, girls team. She's kind of middle of the road, but once they weed out a couple of more chefs, she'll find herself struggling to compete.
6. Keisha - Has some cooking talent, but is inconsistent. Also, can you imagine her leading a brigade? You can't understand a word she's saying.
5. Jason - Talented chef, but has screwed up a couple of times and has a very short temper. I think the latter will get him eliminated before the top 3 or 4 (even possibly before the "black jackets" get handed out).
4. Rochelle - She's been flying under the radar, but I think she's impressed Chef Ramsey. She keeps cool in the kitchen, can cook, and has shown signs of leadership. Once she gets thrown in "full force", it will be interesting how well she does.
3. Melanie - Melanie has been very strong throughout the competition on both the cooking and leadership side. However, there's something lacking that makes her just under the top 2 chefs.
2. Joy - I actually think she'll win it all. First couple of services she looked like one of the weaker chefs, but has really stepped up. She's a good leader (although has had a couple of shows where she's lost her temper) and can cook.
1. Anton - Definitely the strongest out of the chefs. Every season though, Chef seems to go for another chef who isn't the obvious choice, which doesn't bode well for Anton if he repeats this pattern. The last episode was the first one that made me have some slight doubts about Anton (how he made things confusing in the kitchen). Regardless, 99% of the time he puts out good food and can delegate in the kitchen.
Thursday, January 2, 2014
NFL Playoff Predictions - 2014
The NFL playoffs start this weekend after an exciting week 17 where the Chargers, Eagles, Packers, and Saints were all able to secure a playoff birth. Here are my predictions for the playoffs.
AFC
Wild Card
Bengals 31 - Chargers 28
Chiefs 24 - Colts 17
Divisional
Broncos 30 - Chiefs 20
Patriots 28 - Bengals 20
Championship
Broncos 34 - Patriots 31
NFC
Wild Card
Saints 37 - Eagles 21
49ers 24 - Packers 20
Divisional
Seahawks 24 - Saints 17
49ers 21 - Panthers 20
Championship
49ers 27 - Seahawks 21
Super Bowl
49ers 23 - Broncos 20
AFC
Wild Card
Bengals 31 - Chargers 28
Chiefs 24 - Colts 17
Divisional
Broncos 30 - Chiefs 20
Patriots 28 - Bengals 20
Championship
Broncos 34 - Patriots 31
NFC
Wild Card
Saints 37 - Eagles 21
49ers 24 - Packers 20
Divisional
Seahawks 24 - Saints 17
49ers 21 - Panthers 20
Championship
49ers 27 - Seahawks 21
Super Bowl
49ers 23 - Broncos 20
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
