Below are my 49ers predictions this season. So far I am 5-5 and I'm 6-3-1 against the spread. As you can see, it took me a while to warm up the the 49ers. But now it's hard to deny that they are one of the elite teams in the NFL.
Week 1 49ers 20 Seahawks 13
ACTUAL: 49ers 33 Seahawks 17
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Week 2: 49ers 24 Cowboys 23
ACTUAL: Cowboys 27 49ers 24
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Week 3: Bengals 19 49ers 17
ACTUAL: 49ers 13 Bengals 8
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Week 4: Eagles 30 49ers 9
ACTUAL: 49ers 24 Eagles 23
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Week 5: Bucs 23 49ers 20
ACTUAL: 49ers 48 Bucs 3
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Week 6: Lions 24 49ers 23
ACTUAL: 49ers 25 Lions 19
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Week 8: 49ers 27 Browns 9
ACTUAL: 49ers 20 Browns 10
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Week 9: 49ers 20 Redskins 13
ACTUAL: 49ers 19 Redskins 11
(Stopped posting to Yahoo Contributor Network)
Week 10: 49ers 20 Giants 17
ACTUAL: 49ers 27 Giants 20
Week 11: 49ers 26 Cardinals 13
ACTUAL: 49ers 23 Cardinals 7
Week 12:
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Postgame notes: 49ers improve to 9-1
The 49ers dominated the Cardinals. Yet, they also didn't play well, particularly in the first half.
Just start looking at the mistakes.
Braylon Edwards dropped touchdown.
Alex Smith overthrows Vernon Davis for sure touchdown.
Alex Smith overthrows Michael Crabtree for sure touchdown.
Two field goals blocked and one missed.
Fortunately, the 49ers played a great third quarter, putting together two touchdown drives, and that was enough to expand the lead to 23 -- which led to a sluggish fourth quarter, and a final score of 23-7.
Once again, the defense was excellent. Overall the 49ers forced five turnovers and continue to lead the league in turnover margin at +17.
Now the 49ers have a short week to prepare for the Baltimore Ravens. When I looked at the stats of the Ravens and Bengals game, I was stunned to see that Baltimore allowed 483 yards.
But it had less to do with bad defense and more to do with perfect throws from Andy Dalton. I'm not sure Alex Smith is capable of such a performance.
Not to say Dalton is better than Smith. (Dalton's three interceptions probably cost the Bengals the game. In comparison, Smith has only thrown four interceptions this season.) I'm just saying that the 49ers cannot get into a gunslinger game and expect to win, especially with Torrey Smith looking like an elite receiver these days. A Dashon Goldson suspension would be devastating with Smith and Anquan Boldin stretching the 49ers defense.
The Ravens run defense has been excellent this season and played well overall on Sunday. But Cedric Benson did have a couple of short touchdown runs. Ray Lewis's absence may have had an impact on those runs. If he can't play on Thursday, the 49ers may be able to have some success running between the tackles.
This will be a huge key to the game, particularly in the red zone. Since the demolition of the Bucs, the 49ers have settled for way too many field goals.
@ Detroit: 3 field goals, 2 in red zone
vs. Cleveland: 2 field goals and stalled drive at opponent's 1-yard line
@ Washington: 4 field goals, 2 in red zone
vs. NYG: 4 field goals, 2 in red zone
vs. Arizona: 6 field goal attempts, three in red zone, one INT in red zone
If the 49ers can't run the ball in the red zone, then you can expect this trend to continue against the Ravens stout defense.
I will post predictions before the game on Thursday, but a few more stats to note.
The Ravens are 5-0 at home this year.
The Ravens three losses have come to teams with a combined record of 12-18.
In the last five weeks, the Ravens point differential is only +3.
The 49ers are 9-0-1 against the spread this year.
They are 4-0 on the road this season, looking to be the first team since the 2007 Patriots to go undefeated on the road in the regular season (the Packers are obviously vying for the same record).
Just start looking at the mistakes.
Braylon Edwards dropped touchdown.
Alex Smith overthrows Vernon Davis for sure touchdown.
Alex Smith overthrows Michael Crabtree for sure touchdown.
Two field goals blocked and one missed.
Fortunately, the 49ers played a great third quarter, putting together two touchdown drives, and that was enough to expand the lead to 23 -- which led to a sluggish fourth quarter, and a final score of 23-7.
Once again, the defense was excellent. Overall the 49ers forced five turnovers and continue to lead the league in turnover margin at +17.
Now the 49ers have a short week to prepare for the Baltimore Ravens. When I looked at the stats of the Ravens and Bengals game, I was stunned to see that Baltimore allowed 483 yards.
But it had less to do with bad defense and more to do with perfect throws from Andy Dalton. I'm not sure Alex Smith is capable of such a performance.
Not to say Dalton is better than Smith. (Dalton's three interceptions probably cost the Bengals the game. In comparison, Smith has only thrown four interceptions this season.) I'm just saying that the 49ers cannot get into a gunslinger game and expect to win, especially with Torrey Smith looking like an elite receiver these days. A Dashon Goldson suspension would be devastating with Smith and Anquan Boldin stretching the 49ers defense.
The Ravens run defense has been excellent this season and played well overall on Sunday. But Cedric Benson did have a couple of short touchdown runs. Ray Lewis's absence may have had an impact on those runs. If he can't play on Thursday, the 49ers may be able to have some success running between the tackles.
This will be a huge key to the game, particularly in the red zone. Since the demolition of the Bucs, the 49ers have settled for way too many field goals.
@ Detroit: 3 field goals, 2 in red zone
vs. Cleveland: 2 field goals and stalled drive at opponent's 1-yard line
@ Washington: 4 field goals, 2 in red zone
vs. NYG: 4 field goals, 2 in red zone
vs. Arizona: 6 field goal attempts, three in red zone, one INT in red zone
If the 49ers can't run the ball in the red zone, then you can expect this trend to continue against the Ravens stout defense.
I will post predictions before the game on Thursday, but a few more stats to note.
The Ravens are 5-0 at home this year.
The Ravens three losses have come to teams with a combined record of 12-18.
In the last five weeks, the Ravens point differential is only +3.
The 49ers are 9-0-1 against the spread this year.
They are 4-0 on the road this season, looking to be the first team since the 2007 Patriots to go undefeated on the road in the regular season (the Packers are obviously vying for the same record).
Sunday, November 13, 2011
How do you beat the 49ers?
The San Francisco 49ers 8-1 start begs the question: Are they Super Bowl contenders? The debate is hotter than ever after San Francisco’s 27-20 win over the New York Giants on Sunday. How can a team, following eight years of futility, suddenly be so good? Many aren’t buying the 49ers start, suggesting that their poor pass defense and game-manager quarterback will eventually bring them down in the playoffs. But the 49ers have created a winning formula despite these negative perceptions. So, what’s the formula that has led to the 49ers winning seven straight?
First off, Frank Gore has been excellent in five of the last seven games, rushing for 634 yards in that span. Alex Smith has been steady in six of the seven games, tossing nine touchdowns and two interceptions. The 49ers lead the league in rushing defense and have not allowed a 100-yard rusher this season. Lastly, the 49ers have a +13 turnover margin for the season.
So, from this list, it appears that 49ers formula is solid run defense, great running game, steady quarterback play and winning the turnover battle -- a pretty bullet proof formula if you ask me.
But it hasn’t always been that easy.
Against the Eagles the 49ers allowed more than 100 yards rushing. Yet, they still beat the Eagles 24-23 by winning the other three phases.
Against the Lions, Alex Smith was atrocious and the 49ers lost the turnover battle. But a great defense and running game was enough to down Detroit 25-19.
Against the Giants, the 49ers only racked up 50 yards from their running backs. They still managed to beat New York by winning the other three phases.
We’ve also learned a lot about how the 49ers play from behind. First the Bengals tried to beat the 49ers at their own game by running the ball and playing great defense with a second half lead. But the 49ers pulled ahead late in the fourth, winning 13-8.
Then the Eagles tried to add on to the lead with big passing plays. But the 49ers thwarted their attempts and scored 21 unanswered to win.
The Lions decided to abandon the running game entirely, taking the 49ers best unit out of the game. But the 49ers still found a way to win.
So how do you beat these 49ers?
I’d say a great passing offense combined with a great passing defense would be your best bet. The 49ers have only truly needed Lady Luck in two games -- against the Eagles and Lions. The Eagles were the only team to dominate the 49ers pass defense, and the Lions were the only team to totally shut down Alex Smith. If any team could put both together, (The Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys come to mind) it would vanquish the 49ers.
But to simply write them off in the playoffs isn’t fair. Alex Smith has proven that he can make plays against good defenses. And I encourage you to ask Matthew Stafford about the 49ers pass defense before you judge.
I think we’ve learned in the last several weeks that the 49ers are for real. They don’t have a glaring weakness, and they boast a few strengths -- special teams, run defense and run offense.
I’m not going to declare that the 49ers are Super Bowl favorites. But before you say, “I hope we get to play the 49ers in the playoffs,” remember that no team has been as consistent as San Francisco in all three phases up to this point in the season.
First off, Frank Gore has been excellent in five of the last seven games, rushing for 634 yards in that span. Alex Smith has been steady in six of the seven games, tossing nine touchdowns and two interceptions. The 49ers lead the league in rushing defense and have not allowed a 100-yard rusher this season. Lastly, the 49ers have a +13 turnover margin for the season.
So, from this list, it appears that 49ers formula is solid run defense, great running game, steady quarterback play and winning the turnover battle -- a pretty bullet proof formula if you ask me.
But it hasn’t always been that easy.
Against the Eagles the 49ers allowed more than 100 yards rushing. Yet, they still beat the Eagles 24-23 by winning the other three phases.
Against the Lions, Alex Smith was atrocious and the 49ers lost the turnover battle. But a great defense and running game was enough to down Detroit 25-19.
Against the Giants, the 49ers only racked up 50 yards from their running backs. They still managed to beat New York by winning the other three phases.
We’ve also learned a lot about how the 49ers play from behind. First the Bengals tried to beat the 49ers at their own game by running the ball and playing great defense with a second half lead. But the 49ers pulled ahead late in the fourth, winning 13-8.
Then the Eagles tried to add on to the lead with big passing plays. But the 49ers thwarted their attempts and scored 21 unanswered to win.
The Lions decided to abandon the running game entirely, taking the 49ers best unit out of the game. But the 49ers still found a way to win.
So how do you beat these 49ers?
I’d say a great passing offense combined with a great passing defense would be your best bet. The 49ers have only truly needed Lady Luck in two games -- against the Eagles and Lions. The Eagles were the only team to dominate the 49ers pass defense, and the Lions were the only team to totally shut down Alex Smith. If any team could put both together, (The Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys come to mind) it would vanquish the 49ers.
But to simply write them off in the playoffs isn’t fair. Alex Smith has proven that he can make plays against good defenses. And I encourage you to ask Matthew Stafford about the 49ers pass defense before you judge.
I think we’ve learned in the last several weeks that the 49ers are for real. They don’t have a glaring weakness, and they boast a few strengths -- special teams, run defense and run offense.
I’m not going to declare that the 49ers are Super Bowl favorites. But before you say, “I hope we get to play the 49ers in the playoffs,” remember that no team has been as consistent as San Francisco in all three phases up to this point in the season.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Curry time
Thirteen assists, no turnovers and a plus-17.
Add 23 points on 18 shot attempts and you have Stephen Curry, the leader of the Warriors 100-94 win over the Thunder on Sunday at Oracle Arena.
Curry was the best player on the floor in this one. It begs the question, is Curry being unproperly utilized by the Warriors coaching staff?
Or in other words, should Curry have the ball more often than Monta Ellis?
My answer: yes and yes.
Curry IS the Warriors point guard. And because of this, he has more VALUE than Ellis.
At this stage in his career, he's not as good of a defender as Ellis and he may never be the slasher Ellis is.
But Curry can create better than Ellis ever will, and that's what the Warriors need.
The Thunder had no answers, because sometimes, there are no answers.
So give Stephen Curry the ball!
And maybe next year, with the acquistion of Tyson Chandler, the Warriors will be a playoff team.
Add 23 points on 18 shot attempts and you have Stephen Curry, the leader of the Warriors 100-94 win over the Thunder on Sunday at Oracle Arena.
Curry was the best player on the floor in this one. It begs the question, is Curry being unproperly utilized by the Warriors coaching staff?
Or in other words, should Curry have the ball more often than Monta Ellis?
My answer: yes and yes.
Curry IS the Warriors point guard. And because of this, he has more VALUE than Ellis.
At this stage in his career, he's not as good of a defender as Ellis and he may never be the slasher Ellis is.
But Curry can create better than Ellis ever will, and that's what the Warriors need.
The Thunder had no answers, because sometimes, there are no answers.
So give Stephen Curry the ball!
And maybe next year, with the acquistion of Tyson Chandler, the Warriors will be a playoff team.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Week 7 Power rankings
1. New York Jets 5-1
Don't underrate the Jets offense, ranked fourth in the league in points per game.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers 5-1
The Steelers always seem to pull out close games, and that's a credit to Mike Tomlin.
3. Tennessee Titans 5-2
The Kerry Collins to Kenny Britt combo added another dimension to this offense.
4. New York Giants 5-2
Best record in the NFC despite league's most turnovers. The Giants scored 41 points against the Cowboys despite five turnovers. Imagine what this offense could do if it held onto the ball.
5. Baltimore Ravens 5-1
The winless Bills exposed the Ravens defense, but Flacco's performance under pressure keeps this team in the top 5.
6. Indianapolis Colts 4-2
The Colts lost a huge part of their run game and aerial attack with the season-ending injury to Dallas Clark. Can Peyton Manning lead the Colts to the playoffs anyway?
7. New England Patriots 5-1
The Patriots have yet to put it all together, yet they have the league's best record.
8. Atlanta Falcons 5-2
Matt Ryan is playing at an All-Pro level, but the Falcon defense was exposed against the Bengals.
9. Kansas City Chiefs 5-2
The Chiefs running game is the best in the league, and their run defense is in the top 5.
10. Philadelphia Eagles 4-3
The Eagles had the Titans on the ropes before they imploded in the fourth quarter. The pass defense is a concern.
11. Green Bay Packers 4-3
Without a running game, I fear that Aaron Rodgers won't last the whole season.
12. Houston Texans 4-2
The Texans offense is potent, but the Texans defense is the league's worst in yards allowed per game.
13. Miami Dolphins 3-3
The Dolphins would be a sure playoff team in the NFC. As is, they will be a nine-win team that watches the playoffs from home.
14. New Orleans Saints 4-3
The Saints would not be a playoff team in the AFC. As is, they will win 10 games by default in the NFC and make the playoffs.
15. Washington Redskins 4-3
The Redskins had no business beating the Bears. But the Skins continue to win ugly despite poor play from Donovan McNabb.
16. Chicago Bears 4-3
Jay Cutler is holding this team back. Four interceptions is unacceptable, especially when the Bears defense is second in the league in points allowed per game.
17. San Diego Chargers 2-5
The league's best offense and defense in terms of total yards has two wins. Why? An awful turnover margin.
18. Cincinnati Bengals 2-4
I like the fight the Bengals showed against the Falcons. The offense is capable of scoring 30 on any team, but Carson Palmer continues to be inconsistent.
19. Minnesota Vikings 2-4
The Vikings have all the tools to be a great team, but Brett Favre is playing as bad as he ever has in his career.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 4-2
Josh Freeman wants the ball in the fourth quarter. And in a weak NFC, Freeman may be able to get the Bucs to nine wins and a playoff berth.
21. Seattle Seahawks 4-2
Pete Carroll has turned the Seahawk defense around. The group is ranked fifth in points allowed per game.
22. Oakland Raiders 3-4
Darren McFadden's explosiveness makes the Raiders a scary team. But before the Raiders can move up this list, they must put together a two-game win streak.
23. St. Louis Rams 3-4
The Rams defense has allowed more than 18 points in just one game. Still, a terrible offensive line will keep St. Louis from the playoffs.
24. Dallas Cowboys 1-5
The injury to Tony Romo will halt this offense, and the defense just allowed 41 points to the Giants.
25. Jacksonville Jaguars 3-4
Defense continues to be awful in Jacksonville.
26. Cleveland Browns 2-5
The Browns stunned the Saints with a great defensive effort. But Colt McCoy still doesn't look like an NFL quarterback.
27. Detroit Lions 1-5
The Lions have a positive point differential, but they have failed to pull out close games. The return of Matthew Stafford may change that.
28. San Francisco 49ers 1-6
How bad is David Carr? He made Alex Smith look like an All-Pro after giving the game to the Panthers. Although the 49ers secondary didn't help, giving 300 yards to Matt Moore.
29. Carolina Panthers 1-5
The Panthers still can't run the ball or stop the run, but David Gettis emerged as a threat with two touchdowns against the 49ers.
30. Arizona Cardinals 3-3
The Cardinals were abysmal against the Seahawks. Max Hall is the worst starting quarterback in the NFL.
31. Buffalo Bills 0-6
The Bills defense is horrendous, but Ryan Fitzpatrick is emerging as one of the league's best young quarterbacks.
32. Denver Broncos 2-5
When you lose by 45 at home to the Raiders, you are the worst team in the NFL.
Don't underrate the Jets offense, ranked fourth in the league in points per game.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers 5-1
The Steelers always seem to pull out close games, and that's a credit to Mike Tomlin.
3. Tennessee Titans 5-2
The Kerry Collins to Kenny Britt combo added another dimension to this offense.
4. New York Giants 5-2
Best record in the NFC despite league's most turnovers. The Giants scored 41 points against the Cowboys despite five turnovers. Imagine what this offense could do if it held onto the ball.
5. Baltimore Ravens 5-1
The winless Bills exposed the Ravens defense, but Flacco's performance under pressure keeps this team in the top 5.
6. Indianapolis Colts 4-2
The Colts lost a huge part of their run game and aerial attack with the season-ending injury to Dallas Clark. Can Peyton Manning lead the Colts to the playoffs anyway?
7. New England Patriots 5-1
The Patriots have yet to put it all together, yet they have the league's best record.
8. Atlanta Falcons 5-2
Matt Ryan is playing at an All-Pro level, but the Falcon defense was exposed against the Bengals.
9. Kansas City Chiefs 5-2
The Chiefs running game is the best in the league, and their run defense is in the top 5.
10. Philadelphia Eagles 4-3
The Eagles had the Titans on the ropes before they imploded in the fourth quarter. The pass defense is a concern.
11. Green Bay Packers 4-3
Without a running game, I fear that Aaron Rodgers won't last the whole season.
12. Houston Texans 4-2
The Texans offense is potent, but the Texans defense is the league's worst in yards allowed per game.
13. Miami Dolphins 3-3
The Dolphins would be a sure playoff team in the NFC. As is, they will be a nine-win team that watches the playoffs from home.
14. New Orleans Saints 4-3
The Saints would not be a playoff team in the AFC. As is, they will win 10 games by default in the NFC and make the playoffs.
15. Washington Redskins 4-3
The Redskins had no business beating the Bears. But the Skins continue to win ugly despite poor play from Donovan McNabb.
16. Chicago Bears 4-3
Jay Cutler is holding this team back. Four interceptions is unacceptable, especially when the Bears defense is second in the league in points allowed per game.
17. San Diego Chargers 2-5
The league's best offense and defense in terms of total yards has two wins. Why? An awful turnover margin.
18. Cincinnati Bengals 2-4
I like the fight the Bengals showed against the Falcons. The offense is capable of scoring 30 on any team, but Carson Palmer continues to be inconsistent.
19. Minnesota Vikings 2-4
The Vikings have all the tools to be a great team, but Brett Favre is playing as bad as he ever has in his career.
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 4-2
Josh Freeman wants the ball in the fourth quarter. And in a weak NFC, Freeman may be able to get the Bucs to nine wins and a playoff berth.
21. Seattle Seahawks 4-2
Pete Carroll has turned the Seahawk defense around. The group is ranked fifth in points allowed per game.
22. Oakland Raiders 3-4
Darren McFadden's explosiveness makes the Raiders a scary team. But before the Raiders can move up this list, they must put together a two-game win streak.
23. St. Louis Rams 3-4
The Rams defense has allowed more than 18 points in just one game. Still, a terrible offensive line will keep St. Louis from the playoffs.
24. Dallas Cowboys 1-5
The injury to Tony Romo will halt this offense, and the defense just allowed 41 points to the Giants.
25. Jacksonville Jaguars 3-4
Defense continues to be awful in Jacksonville.
26. Cleveland Browns 2-5
The Browns stunned the Saints with a great defensive effort. But Colt McCoy still doesn't look like an NFL quarterback.
27. Detroit Lions 1-5
The Lions have a positive point differential, but they have failed to pull out close games. The return of Matthew Stafford may change that.
28. San Francisco 49ers 1-6
How bad is David Carr? He made Alex Smith look like an All-Pro after giving the game to the Panthers. Although the 49ers secondary didn't help, giving 300 yards to Matt Moore.
29. Carolina Panthers 1-5
The Panthers still can't run the ball or stop the run, but David Gettis emerged as a threat with two touchdowns against the 49ers.
30. Arizona Cardinals 3-3
The Cardinals were abysmal against the Seahawks. Max Hall is the worst starting quarterback in the NFL.
31. Buffalo Bills 0-6
The Bills defense is horrendous, but Ryan Fitzpatrick is emerging as one of the league's best young quarterbacks.
32. Denver Broncos 2-5
When you lose by 45 at home to the Raiders, you are the worst team in the NFL.
Monday, October 18, 2010
NFL Quarterback rankings
1. Peyton Manning
He has a Super Bowl. His team has won at least 12 games in every year since 2003. He’s easily the best regular-season quarterback in NFL history.
2. Philip Rivers
Leading the Chargers to a 13-win season last year was impressive. Rivers has played OK in the playoffs, posting a 3-4 record, a record that would be better if Nate Kaeding could make a kick in the playoffs. In the last three years, Rivers QB rating is 105. That’s the best in the NFL.
3. Drew Brees
Anyway you look at it, Brees was the best quarterback in the NFL in 2009. His 109.6 QB Rating and Super Bowl ring are evidence of that. He’s off to another quick start in 2010, with nine touchdown passes in five games.
4. Aaron Rodgers
His career QB Rating is 96.4 and in his one playoff start he threw for more than 400 yards and four touchdowns. It’s a small sample size, but when it’s all said and done Rodgers may be known as the best quarterback of the ‘10s decade.
5. Tom Brady
The Patriots haven’t won a Super Bowl since 2004, and Brady hasn’t won a playoff game since the 2007-08 season. Still, I want the ball in Brady’s hands when the game’s on the line more than any other quarterback in the NFL.
6. Ben Roethlisberger
Big Ben actually played pretty poorly in the 2008 season, but the Steelers still won the Super Bowl. He’s made some great throws on the NFL’s biggest stages, and he has the second most Super Bowl rings of active players.
7. Tony Romo
Romo is the biggest enigma on this list. Statistically, he’s one of the greatest quarterbacks ever, yet you would never know it if you listened to many Dallas fans. A deep playoff run would do wonders for his reputation, but the Cowboys first need to make the playoffs, which seems unlikely at this moment.
8. Matt Schaub
Schaub threw for 4,770 yards and 29 touchdowns last year, and yet he’s only eighth on this list. Why? The Texans have never made the playoffs.
9. Mike Vick
He’s played 10 quarters of good football, and now I have him as a top 10 quarterback in the NFL. Seems a bit ridiculous, but Vick looks as good as ever, which is saying a lot considering some of the games he had when he was a Falcon.
10. Brett Favre
How quickly we forget that Favre threw for 4,200 yards and 33 touchdowns last season. Favre has looked awful thus far, but I’m giving me one more shot to win me over.
11. Matt Ryan
Ryan has put up consistent above-average numbers for the Falcons in his career. But, I still haven’t seen Ryan put this team on his shoulders and win a big game. Until then, he’ll stay outside the top 10.
12. Kyle Orton
I never would have thought that I’d have Kyle Orton ranked higher than Eli Manning and Donovan McNabb, but I can’t ignore how well Orton has played to begin this season. He’s thrown for 1,733 and eight touchdowns in five games.
13. Eli Manning
For all the games which Manning has played terrible in the regular season, he was unbelievable in the 2007-08 playoffs. Because of that run, he’s the biggest wild card on this list. He has the talent to be the best quarterback on this list, but he also often plays like one of the worst.
14. Donovan McNabb
McNabb has produced just one deep playoff run since the 2004-05 season. He’s lost much of his mobility that made one of the best quarterbacks in the league a decade ago. His 81.9 QB Rating this year is rather pedestrian, yet he still has the ability to lead the Redskins to the playoffs.
15. Vince Young
Vince Young is a winner. He was a winner in college, and I believe he will have the Titans is playoffs for years to come. But his career 74.2 QB Rating isn’t good enough to be ranked any higher on this list than No. 15.
16. Mark Sanchez
Sanchez’s last eight games including playoffs: 6-2 record, 12 touchdowns and two interceptions. Sanchez last season: 12 touchdowns and 20 interceptions. I still think in the back of my mind that Sanchez will hit some sophomore struggles soon.
17. Carson Palmer
18. Chad Henne
19. Joe Flacco
20. David Garrard
21. Jay Cutler
22. Josh Freeman
23. Matt Cassel
24. Alex Smith
25. Matthew Stafford
26. Jason Campbell
27. Matt Hasselbeck
28. Sam Bradford
29. Ryan Fitzpatrick
30. Jake Delhomme
31. Max Hall
32. Jimmy Clausen
He has a Super Bowl. His team has won at least 12 games in every year since 2003. He’s easily the best regular-season quarterback in NFL history.
2. Philip Rivers
Leading the Chargers to a 13-win season last year was impressive. Rivers has played OK in the playoffs, posting a 3-4 record, a record that would be better if Nate Kaeding could make a kick in the playoffs. In the last three years, Rivers QB rating is 105. That’s the best in the NFL.
3. Drew Brees
Anyway you look at it, Brees was the best quarterback in the NFL in 2009. His 109.6 QB Rating and Super Bowl ring are evidence of that. He’s off to another quick start in 2010, with nine touchdown passes in five games.
4. Aaron Rodgers
His career QB Rating is 96.4 and in his one playoff start he threw for more than 400 yards and four touchdowns. It’s a small sample size, but when it’s all said and done Rodgers may be known as the best quarterback of the ‘10s decade.
5. Tom Brady
The Patriots haven’t won a Super Bowl since 2004, and Brady hasn’t won a playoff game since the 2007-08 season. Still, I want the ball in Brady’s hands when the game’s on the line more than any other quarterback in the NFL.
6. Ben Roethlisberger
Big Ben actually played pretty poorly in the 2008 season, but the Steelers still won the Super Bowl. He’s made some great throws on the NFL’s biggest stages, and he has the second most Super Bowl rings of active players.
7. Tony Romo
Romo is the biggest enigma on this list. Statistically, he’s one of the greatest quarterbacks ever, yet you would never know it if you listened to many Dallas fans. A deep playoff run would do wonders for his reputation, but the Cowboys first need to make the playoffs, which seems unlikely at this moment.
8. Matt Schaub
Schaub threw for 4,770 yards and 29 touchdowns last year, and yet he’s only eighth on this list. Why? The Texans have never made the playoffs.
9. Mike Vick
He’s played 10 quarters of good football, and now I have him as a top 10 quarterback in the NFL. Seems a bit ridiculous, but Vick looks as good as ever, which is saying a lot considering some of the games he had when he was a Falcon.
10. Brett Favre
How quickly we forget that Favre threw for 4,200 yards and 33 touchdowns last season. Favre has looked awful thus far, but I’m giving me one more shot to win me over.
11. Matt Ryan
Ryan has put up consistent above-average numbers for the Falcons in his career. But, I still haven’t seen Ryan put this team on his shoulders and win a big game. Until then, he’ll stay outside the top 10.
12. Kyle Orton
I never would have thought that I’d have Kyle Orton ranked higher than Eli Manning and Donovan McNabb, but I can’t ignore how well Orton has played to begin this season. He’s thrown for 1,733 and eight touchdowns in five games.
13. Eli Manning
For all the games which Manning has played terrible in the regular season, he was unbelievable in the 2007-08 playoffs. Because of that run, he’s the biggest wild card on this list. He has the talent to be the best quarterback on this list, but he also often plays like one of the worst.
14. Donovan McNabb
McNabb has produced just one deep playoff run since the 2004-05 season. He’s lost much of his mobility that made one of the best quarterbacks in the league a decade ago. His 81.9 QB Rating this year is rather pedestrian, yet he still has the ability to lead the Redskins to the playoffs.
15. Vince Young
Vince Young is a winner. He was a winner in college, and I believe he will have the Titans is playoffs for years to come. But his career 74.2 QB Rating isn’t good enough to be ranked any higher on this list than No. 15.
16. Mark Sanchez
Sanchez’s last eight games including playoffs: 6-2 record, 12 touchdowns and two interceptions. Sanchez last season: 12 touchdowns and 20 interceptions. I still think in the back of my mind that Sanchez will hit some sophomore struggles soon.
17. Carson Palmer
18. Chad Henne
19. Joe Flacco
20. David Garrard
21. Jay Cutler
22. Josh Freeman
23. Matt Cassel
24. Alex Smith
25. Matthew Stafford
26. Jason Campbell
27. Matt Hasselbeck
28. Sam Bradford
29. Ryan Fitzpatrick
30. Jake Delhomme
31. Max Hall
32. Jimmy Clausen
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
NFL Power Rankings
1. New York Jets (4-1)
They can run on anyway, they can shut down anyone’s offense and Mark Sanchez hasn’t thrown an interception. I’m starting to believe in this team.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1)
The defense is back to it’s pre-2009 ways and the return of Ben Roethlisberger should make this offense potent. Will Big Ben struggle to get back into the flow of things?
3. Baltimore Ravens (4-1)
The Jets, Steelers and Ravens all have smash mouth defenses and solid running games. But why do I trust Roethlisberger and Sanchez more than I trust Flacco?
4. Indianapolis Colts (3-2)
It pains me to watch this offensive line fail to run block, yet Peyton Manning bails this entire offense out over and over again. He’s the best player in the league and he makes the Colts the favorite in the South.
5. Tennessee Titans (3-2)
Since starting 0-6 last year, the Titans are 11-4. That’s impressive, but considering the Colts have won at least 12 since 2003, I’ll leave the Titans as the second best team in the AFC South.
6. New England Patriots (3-1)
The best coach-quarterback tandem continues to make the Pats a threat. Rex Ryan has more talent than Bill Belichick, but when December comes around, Tom Brady will be ready.
7. Atlanta Falcons (4-1)
The Falcons moved to the top spot in the NFC this week because Michael Turner broke out for 140 yards. Atlanta needs more of this if it wants to stay atop the NFC South.
8. New York Giants (3-2)
After two embarrassing losses, the G-men have looked as good as anyone in the league in the last two weeks, whooping Chicago and Houston. The defense is back to its pre-2009 form, so look out.
9. Philadelphia Eagles (3-2)
This team is a little beat up right now, but when healthy, I see an aerial attack with weapons, a solid run game with LeSean McCoy, a dynamic quarterback in Mike Vick, and a solid defense.
10. Chicago Bears (4-1)
I don’t trust Jay Cutler at all, but Lovie Smith has this Bears defense playing as well as it did in its Super Bowl year. When Matt Forte tops 100 yards like he did against Carolina, the Bears are almost unbeatable.
11. New Orleans Saints (3-2)
The defending Super Bowl champs have hit a lull in the season, losing two of their last three, including a 30-20 loss to the hapless Cardinals. No need to panic. Drew Brees will have this team back in no time.
12. Green Bay Packers (3-2)
Speaking of panicking, the Packers might want to do just that. Aaron Rodgers has a concussion, the running game is weak and the defense is giving up too many big plays.
13. Kansas City Chiefs (3-1)
The loss to the Colts taught me a few things. 1. This defense is for real, 2. Matt Cassel and the passing game needs to improve, and 3. Kansas City is here to stay.
14. Dallas Cowboys (1-3)
Dallas is 1-3 and has a brutal upcoming schedule. This team is unraveling fast, yet I still think it is the most talented team in the whole NFC. Sometimes talent doesn’t bring wins, just ask the 49ers.
15. Houston Texans (3-2)
If Houston wants to reach the playoffs, Matt Schaub needs to play better than he did against the Giants, when he completed less than 50 percent of his passes with two turnovers.
16. Minnesota Vikings (1-3)
Brett Favre finally found a rhythm in the second half against the Jets. With Randy Moss, the Vikings could turn this around really fast, especially with the Packers struggling and Cutler’s shaky psyche.
17. Washington Redskins (3-2)
The Redskins are 3-2, but they have the worst defense in terms of yards allowed. Eventually, allowing those big plays will cost Washington.
18. San Diego Chargers (2-3)
Philip Rivers can’t do anything more for the Chargers. The rest of the team is letting him down time and time again. I call out the defense and the running game for San Diego to step up before it’s too late.
19. Cincinnati Bengals (2-3)
Carson Palmer’s 78.3 QB Rating is the biggest reason why the Bengals are struggling. He has weapons, but his accuracy is simply not good enough.
20. Miami Dolphins (2-2)
Two home losses to the NFC East’s two best teams has put the Dolphins in a huge hole. Chad Henne must bounce back fast after his Monday Night debacle against the Patriots.
21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1)
Maybe the NFL’s biggest surprise, the Bucs are playing great and Josh Freeman is playing at a high level. This week’s matchup vs. New Orleans will determine if they are for real.
22. Denver Broncos (2-3)
An abysmal running game is holding the Broncos back. Kyle Orton continues to shine and the defense is average, but when a team is averaging 2.3 yards per carry on the ground, it won’t win many.
23. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-2)
The Jags are tied for first in the AFC South, but they wont be their for long. Their defense can’t stop anybody, and that will have the Jacksonville in last by the end
of October.
24. Oakland Raiders (2-3)
Jason Campbell and Bruce Gradkowski have traded off playing awful and well, but the Raider run game has been a constant, averaging 134 yards per game. Beating San Diego was a huge confidence boost.
25. Detroit Lions (1-4)
The Lions have been in every game this year, and last week they hammered the Rams 44-6. Matt Stafford should return soon, giving Lions’ fans more optimism than they’ve had in the previous two years.
26. Cleveland Browns (1-4)
The Browns have also competed, but their brutal schedule will keep them toward the bottom of the power rankings. I don’t see a win on the schedule till they play Carolina on Nov. 28.
27. Seattle Seahawks (2-2)
The Seahawks have played great at home and awful on the road. Fortunately, they may not have to win a road game to win the NFC West. The Seahawks have the most realistic chance at wining the West.
28. San Francisco 49ers (0-5)
I still believe the 49ers would beat any team in the NFC West on a neutral field. Next up is a must win against the Raiders. A loss would likely mean the end of Alex Smith in San Francisco.
29. St. Louis Rams (2-3)
The Rams have put together a couple solid performances at home, but when a team loses by 38 to Detroit, it automatically falls in the power rankings.
30. Arizona Cardinals (3-2)
They rank 27th in defense and 31st in offense, yet they are leading a division. I don’t buy it. Max Hall is the worst starting quarterback in the NFL. Their minus-50 in point differential will catch up to them quickly.
31. Buffalo Bills (0-5)
The defense is allowing 32.2 points per game. Yikes! The offense isn’t much better. C.J. Spiller has only 80 rushing yards this year. Drafting him makes no sense if Buffalo isn’t going to play him.
32. Carolina Panthers (0-5)
This offense is so abysmal, it’s hard to explain. It averages 10 points per game and only 236 total yards. By the end of the year, Panther fans will be begging ownership to get rid of Matt
They can run on anyway, they can shut down anyone’s offense and Mark Sanchez hasn’t thrown an interception. I’m starting to believe in this team.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-1)
The defense is back to it’s pre-2009 ways and the return of Ben Roethlisberger should make this offense potent. Will Big Ben struggle to get back into the flow of things?
3. Baltimore Ravens (4-1)
The Jets, Steelers and Ravens all have smash mouth defenses and solid running games. But why do I trust Roethlisberger and Sanchez more than I trust Flacco?
4. Indianapolis Colts (3-2)
It pains me to watch this offensive line fail to run block, yet Peyton Manning bails this entire offense out over and over again. He’s the best player in the league and he makes the Colts the favorite in the South.
5. Tennessee Titans (3-2)
Since starting 0-6 last year, the Titans are 11-4. That’s impressive, but considering the Colts have won at least 12 since 2003, I’ll leave the Titans as the second best team in the AFC South.
6. New England Patriots (3-1)
The best coach-quarterback tandem continues to make the Pats a threat. Rex Ryan has more talent than Bill Belichick, but when December comes around, Tom Brady will be ready.
7. Atlanta Falcons (4-1)
The Falcons moved to the top spot in the NFC this week because Michael Turner broke out for 140 yards. Atlanta needs more of this if it wants to stay atop the NFC South.
8. New York Giants (3-2)
After two embarrassing losses, the G-men have looked as good as anyone in the league in the last two weeks, whooping Chicago and Houston. The defense is back to its pre-2009 form, so look out.
9. Philadelphia Eagles (3-2)
This team is a little beat up right now, but when healthy, I see an aerial attack with weapons, a solid run game with LeSean McCoy, a dynamic quarterback in Mike Vick, and a solid defense.
10. Chicago Bears (4-1)
I don’t trust Jay Cutler at all, but Lovie Smith has this Bears defense playing as well as it did in its Super Bowl year. When Matt Forte tops 100 yards like he did against Carolina, the Bears are almost unbeatable.
11. New Orleans Saints (3-2)
The defending Super Bowl champs have hit a lull in the season, losing two of their last three, including a 30-20 loss to the hapless Cardinals. No need to panic. Drew Brees will have this team back in no time.
12. Green Bay Packers (3-2)
Speaking of panicking, the Packers might want to do just that. Aaron Rodgers has a concussion, the running game is weak and the defense is giving up too many big plays.
13. Kansas City Chiefs (3-1)
The loss to the Colts taught me a few things. 1. This defense is for real, 2. Matt Cassel and the passing game needs to improve, and 3. Kansas City is here to stay.
14. Dallas Cowboys (1-3)
Dallas is 1-3 and has a brutal upcoming schedule. This team is unraveling fast, yet I still think it is the most talented team in the whole NFC. Sometimes talent doesn’t bring wins, just ask the 49ers.
15. Houston Texans (3-2)
If Houston wants to reach the playoffs, Matt Schaub needs to play better than he did against the Giants, when he completed less than 50 percent of his passes with two turnovers.
16. Minnesota Vikings (1-3)
Brett Favre finally found a rhythm in the second half against the Jets. With Randy Moss, the Vikings could turn this around really fast, especially with the Packers struggling and Cutler’s shaky psyche.
17. Washington Redskins (3-2)
The Redskins are 3-2, but they have the worst defense in terms of yards allowed. Eventually, allowing those big plays will cost Washington.
18. San Diego Chargers (2-3)
Philip Rivers can’t do anything more for the Chargers. The rest of the team is letting him down time and time again. I call out the defense and the running game for San Diego to step up before it’s too late.
19. Cincinnati Bengals (2-3)
Carson Palmer’s 78.3 QB Rating is the biggest reason why the Bengals are struggling. He has weapons, but his accuracy is simply not good enough.
20. Miami Dolphins (2-2)
Two home losses to the NFC East’s two best teams has put the Dolphins in a huge hole. Chad Henne must bounce back fast after his Monday Night debacle against the Patriots.
21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1)
Maybe the NFL’s biggest surprise, the Bucs are playing great and Josh Freeman is playing at a high level. This week’s matchup vs. New Orleans will determine if they are for real.
22. Denver Broncos (2-3)
An abysmal running game is holding the Broncos back. Kyle Orton continues to shine and the defense is average, but when a team is averaging 2.3 yards per carry on the ground, it won’t win many.
23. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-2)
The Jags are tied for first in the AFC South, but they wont be their for long. Their defense can’t stop anybody, and that will have the Jacksonville in last by the end
of October.
24. Oakland Raiders (2-3)
Jason Campbell and Bruce Gradkowski have traded off playing awful and well, but the Raider run game has been a constant, averaging 134 yards per game. Beating San Diego was a huge confidence boost.
25. Detroit Lions (1-4)
The Lions have been in every game this year, and last week they hammered the Rams 44-6. Matt Stafford should return soon, giving Lions’ fans more optimism than they’ve had in the previous two years.
26. Cleveland Browns (1-4)
The Browns have also competed, but their brutal schedule will keep them toward the bottom of the power rankings. I don’t see a win on the schedule till they play Carolina on Nov. 28.
27. Seattle Seahawks (2-2)
The Seahawks have played great at home and awful on the road. Fortunately, they may not have to win a road game to win the NFC West. The Seahawks have the most realistic chance at wining the West.
28. San Francisco 49ers (0-5)
I still believe the 49ers would beat any team in the NFC West on a neutral field. Next up is a must win against the Raiders. A loss would likely mean the end of Alex Smith in San Francisco.
29. St. Louis Rams (2-3)
The Rams have put together a couple solid performances at home, but when a team loses by 38 to Detroit, it automatically falls in the power rankings.
30. Arizona Cardinals (3-2)
They rank 27th in defense and 31st in offense, yet they are leading a division. I don’t buy it. Max Hall is the worst starting quarterback in the NFL. Their minus-50 in point differential will catch up to them quickly.
31. Buffalo Bills (0-5)
The defense is allowing 32.2 points per game. Yikes! The offense isn’t much better. C.J. Spiller has only 80 rushing yards this year. Drafting him makes no sense if Buffalo isn’t going to play him.
32. Carolina Panthers (0-5)
This offense is so abysmal, it’s hard to explain. It averages 10 points per game and only 236 total yards. By the end of the year, Panther fans will be begging ownership to get rid of Matt
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