As elimination numbers dwindle and drama rises, baseball's regular season is headed for a wild final week of action. Circle the Oct. 1-3 series between the Giants and Padres on your calendar -- it could be a head-to-head battle for the NL West…Read more
Thursday, September 30, 2010
MLB Roundup
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
NFL Computerized Power Rankings Week 4
We enter week 4 with a lot of things shaking out and a few surprises. Who would have thought that Charlie Batch would be the savior at quarterback for the Steelers? The Steelers are 3-0 without Ben and everyone was just hoping for 2-2 and treading water. Then again, Who thought the Chiefs would even sniff the top ten this year? It is going to get harder for them the next few weeks, but they deserve credit for what they have done so far and more than half of the roster has less than 3 years experience. They will get good and they are going to be good for a long time when they do…. Complete Power Rankings on SportzNutz.com
Monday, September 27, 2010
Cutler, Bears beat Packers 20-17 to move to 3-0
The Chicago Bears stamped themselves as contenders in the NFC. And they did it with a big assist from their oldest rival.
Jay Cutler threw for 221 yards, Brian Urlacher forced a key fumble and Chicago took advantage of a team-record 18 penalties by the Packers to beat Green Bay 20-17 on Monday night.
Robbie Gould won it with a 19-yard field goal with 4 seconds left. The Packers’ James Jones lost a fumble on a hit by Urlacher in the final minutes. Then Morgan Burnett was called for pass interference on Earl Bennett, setting up the winning kick.
“It’s fun, that is all you can ask for,” Cutler said. “The defense did a great job, we struggled the whole game, felt like we kind of were killing ourselves.”
The Bears (3-0) kept insisting they were contenders through a sloppy preseason and less-than-inspiring opening win over Detroit. Since then, they turned heads with a win at Dallas last week, and opened more eyes by beating Green Bay—with lots of help from the Packers.
The Bears tied it at 17 on a 25-yard field goal by Gould.
Urlacher jarred the ball out of Jones’ hands after the receiver caught a pass from Aaron Rodgers near midfield. Tim Jennings(notes) recovered, giving Chicago the ball on the Packers 46 with 2:18 remaining.
“Any time a play like that comes up, that’s a play you need to make,” the Packers’ Nick Barnett said. “Luckily for them they didn’t have any penalties on that call and they were able to get the ball.”
Soon after, another penalty cost the Packers (2-1) in a big way.
On second down at the 33, Cutler tried to hit Bennett deep along the right sideline and Burnett basically hammered him, wiping out an interception by Nick Collins and putting the ball at the 9.
Three plays later, Chicago walked away with a wild win and the only undefeated record in the NFC.
Read more on Yahoo SportsNote: Cross posted from SportzNutz.
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Jay Cutler threw for 221 yards, Brian Urlacher forced a key fumble and Chicago took advantage of a team-record 18 penalties by the Packers to beat Green Bay 20-17 on Monday night.
Robbie Gould won it with a 19-yard field goal with 4 seconds left. The Packers’ James Jones lost a fumble on a hit by Urlacher in the final minutes. Then Morgan Burnett was called for pass interference on Earl Bennett, setting up the winning kick.
“It’s fun, that is all you can ask for,” Cutler said. “The defense did a great job, we struggled the whole game, felt like we kind of were killing ourselves.”
The Bears (3-0) kept insisting they were contenders through a sloppy preseason and less-than-inspiring opening win over Detroit. Since then, they turned heads with a win at Dallas last week, and opened more eyes by beating Green Bay—with lots of help from the Packers.
The Bears tied it at 17 on a 25-yard field goal by Gould.
Urlacher jarred the ball out of Jones’ hands after the receiver caught a pass from Aaron Rodgers near midfield. Tim Jennings(notes) recovered, giving Chicago the ball on the Packers 46 with 2:18 remaining.
“Any time a play like that comes up, that’s a play you need to make,” the Packers’ Nick Barnett said. “Luckily for them they didn’t have any penalties on that call and they were able to get the ball.”
Soon after, another penalty cost the Packers (2-1) in a big way.
On second down at the 33, Cutler tried to hit Bennett deep along the right sideline and Burnett basically hammered him, wiping out an interception by Nick Collins and putting the ball at the 9.
Three plays later, Chicago walked away with a wild win and the only undefeated record in the NFC.
Read more on Yahoo SportsNote: Cross posted from SportzNutz.
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NFL Game Recaps and Highlights
Edwards’ long TD helps Jets beat Dolphins 31-23
-Video: Braylon Edwards 67-Yard TD Catch
Washington’s returns lead Seahawks over Chargers, 27-20
-Video: Leon Washington Two Kick Returns for TD
Janikowski misses final FG, Arizona escapes 24-23
Manning throws 3 TD passes in Colts’ 27-13 win
Rams beat Redskins 30-16, end home losing streak
Vick accounts for 4 TDs, Eagles rout Jags 28-3
-Video: Michael Vick shows why he is the new starter
Cowboys beat Texans 27-13 for first win
Vikings, Peterson speed past Lions 24-10
-Video: Adrian Peterson gallops 80 yards for a touchdown.
Bryant’s OT kick lifts Falcons over Saints, 27-24
Batch leads Steelers past Buccaneers 38-13
Boldin, Flacco carry Ravens over Browns 24-17
Titans take advantage of Giants mistakes, win 29-10
Cassel throws 3 TD passes, Chiefs beat 49ers 31-10
- Video: Chiefs Trick Play - Cassel to Bowe
- Video: Dexter McCluster 31-Yard Touchdown Week 3
Brady throws for 3 TDs, Pats beat Bills 38-30
Bengals pull away to beat Panthers 20-7
Video: Sunday Injury Report
Video: Sunday Breakdown Week 3
Video: Vicks Dedication Paying Off
Note: Cross posted from nutzworld.com.Permalink
Friday, September 24, 2010
NFL Computerized Game Predictor Week 3
NFL Computerized Game Predictor Week 3
Week 1 was insane week 2 just got crazier with the quarterback shuffles that have followed (about one-fourth of teams have a different quarterback under center than they did two weeks ago). Does Ryan Fitzpatrick even have a reputation? What rumors have you heard about Bruce Gradkowski? That’s why we have to rely on the computer rather than trying to figure this out ourselves. It’s impossible at this point to keep up with who is the starting quarterback, much less who is going to cover. Oh well, week three is here and its time to get the NFL computerized predictor moving on up after last weeks 10-6 ATS record at 1/2 play we are sitting at +150.00 for the year… [Read More...]
Note: Cross posted from nutzworld.com.Permalink
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Wallpaper: Milla Jovovich
Most know her from the Resident Evil series, we loved her in Ultraviolet and The 5th Element as well as she is the go to girl if you want sexy and bad ass in your sci-fi. This set of wallpapers featuring the sexy Milla Jovovich we love as well.
Desktop Nexus: Wallpapers > People Wallpapers > Actresses Wallpaper
Desktop Nexus: Wallpapers > Entertainment Wallpapers > Movies Wallpaper
Desktop Nexus: Wallpapers > People Wallpapers > Models Female Wallpaper
Desktop Nexus: Wallpapers > Entertainment Wallpapers > Movies Wallpaper
Desktop Nexus: Wallpapers > People Wallpapers > Actresses Wallpaper
Desktop Nexus: Wallpapers > Entertainment Wallpapers > Movies WallpaperNote: Cross posted from nutzworld.com.
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Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Week Three NFL Power Rankings
NFL Computerized Power Rankings Week 3
Week 2 is in the books and as we head into week three things are shaking out. The Saints lose their grip on the top spot as they could be 0-2 as well as 2-0 while the Packers and Steelers keep rolling. … [Read More...]
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Reid reverses course, Vick named Eagles starter.
Michael Vick earned himself a starting job by being—of all things—a pocket passer.
Reid turned to Vick one day after naming Kolb his starter.
Vick will take over as the Philadelphia Eagles’ No. 1 quarterback, coach Andy Reid said Tuesday, a day after he announced he would go back to Kevin Kolb.
“When someone is playing at the level Michael Vick is playing, you have to give him an opportunity,” Reid said. “This isn’t about Kevin Kolb’s play. You’re talking about Michael Vick as one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL right now.”
Vick is considered the greatest scrambling quarterback in NFL history, but he won the job over Kolb by demonstrating he no longer has a run-first mentality.
Kolb missed the last six quarters because of a concussion, and Vick played well in his absence. Kolb was cleared to practice and was expected to run the first-team offense on Wednesday.
“Kevin is fine. It’s not an injury-related issue,” Reid said. “It’s not about judging him. He’s going to be a championship-caliber quarterback.”
Vick threw for 175 yards and one touchdown and ran for 103 yards in a 27-20 season-opening loss to Green Bay. He had 284 yards passing and two TDs in a 35-32 win at Detroit on Sunday
Read more on Yahoo SportsNote: Cross posted from SportzNutz.Permalink
Friday, September 17, 2010
NFL Computerized Predictor Week Two
NFL Computerized Predictor Week Two with bonus parlay picks.
Week two is upon us and its time to get the NFL computerized predictor rolling. There are some great games to go and even the games that may not be so good have some good storylines, the Philly Detroit game for example has Vick starting and if he does well it could spell trouble for Andy Reid as he has already stated that Kolb is his guy. Time will tell on that one….view predictions on SportzNutz
The NFL Game Predictor is our proprietary computer program that predicts game scores. Remember this site is for entertainment purposes only. So have some fun and compare your results with your friends
Note: Cross posted from nutzworld.com.Permalink
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
NFL Computer Power Rankings – Week 2
We have played games for real now and it’s time to start shaking it up. The Saints showed they were right where they belonged on top. There won't be many games when that offense is limited to 14 points. So to play defense the way they did serves notice to the entire league. The champs won't go down without a strong fight.
In a weekend full of upsets 6 of the preseason top ten teams lost. That makes for a pretty big shakeup behind the Saints. It will be a long climb back up the computer rankings for some of those teams while for others it will just be a blip on another successful season. This Sunday we will continue to find out who are the contenders, and who are the pretenders…
View NFL Power Rankings on SportzNutz
2005 Heisman Trophy to remain vacant
Rather than replace Reggie Bush, who returned his trophy after a scandal erupted, the officials who administer the award decided it would remain vacant for that year.
There was some initial talk that the trophy might go to former Texas quarterback Vince Young, who finished a distant second to Bush in the voting....
Note: Cross posted from SportzNutz.Permalink
2005 Heisman Trophy to remain vacant
Rather than replace Reggie Bush, who returned his trophy after a scandal erupted, the officials who administer the award decided it would remain vacant for that year.
There was some initial talk that the trophy might go to former Texas quarterback Vince Young, who finished a distant second to Bush in the voting....
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Displaced NFL Fans – You can win a trip to the Super Bowl!
The NFL Season is upon us. While New Orleans Saints fans bask in Super Bowl glory the fans of the other 31 NFL teams are hungry to get the regular season underway as their dreams of joining the 2010 New Orleans Saints as Super Bowl Champions in Dallas, TX, are stronger than ever. DIRECTV, provider of the ultimate NFL package, NFL SUNDAY TICKET, is yet again doing its part to make an NFL fans dream come true with their 3rd annual DIRECTV Ultimate Displaced Fan Contest, which looks to crown America’s most die-hard displaced NFL Fan....
Note: Cross posted from SportzNutz.Permalink
Friday, September 10, 2010
Live now on NutzWorld: Stand Up to Cancer Live Stream
Stand Up To Cancer is a live streaming event that will raise funds to accelerate innovative cancer research. Watch live on NutzWorld as actors, musicians, athletes and journalists come together for this special event.
Special thanks to Hulu for the stream!
Note: Cross posted from nutzworld.com.Permalink
Site of the Day: Should I Watch
Football season is here once more. It's time to break out the jerseys and cheer on your team. Unfortunately, life can get busy. And you may end up recording some games instead.
Some people want to watch their team no matter what. But others don't like seeing their team get massacred. Or they just don't like lopsided games in general. But how do you know what kind of game it is?
This site gives you the answer. Select the game you recorded. Then select a point variance for one or both teams. For example, your team lost by 20 points.
The site tells you if you should watch the game or not. But it doesn't give you the final score—unless you ask. So you'll know it's a good game to watch without it being ruined.
Visit Should I Watch
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Thursday, September 9, 2010
Saints hold off Vikings 14-9 to start season
Drew Brees and the Saints extended New Orleans' post-Super Bowl euphoria for at least another week and handed Brett Favre a second straight loss in the Louisiana Superdome.
Brees completed 27 of 36 passes for 237 yards and one touchdown, and the Saints survived a hard-fought season opener for a 14-9 victory Thursday night.
It wasn't the most spectacular way to open a title defense, considering it was a rematch of the riveting 2009 NFC title game last January, in which the Saints took an overtime win to advance to their first Super Bowl.
However the Saints have to like the way the defense handled Favre and the Vikings.
SCORING SUMMARY
| 1st Quarter | |||
 | TD | 12:56 | Devery Henderson 29 yd pass from Drew Brees (Garrett Hartley kick) Plays: 5 | Yards: 77 | Time: 2:04 |
| 2nd Quarter | |||
 | FG | 5:28 | Ryan Longwell 41 yd FG Plays: 16 | Yards: 66 | Time: 9:25 |
| TD | 0:34 | Visanthe Shiancoe 20 yd pass from Brett Favre (blocked XP) Plays: 5 | Yards: 64 | Time: 0:45 |
| 3rd Quarter | |||
| TD | 6:13 | Pierre Thomas 1 yd run (Garrett Hartley kick) Plays: 11 | Yards: 74 | Time: 6:43 |
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NFL Predictor - Computer Predictions: Week 1
Week one is upon us and there are some fantastic games on the slate this week starting with Thursday nights matchup that puts the Vikings and Saints head to head for early NFC supremacy. Favre may have lost his go to receiver, but this game should still be one for the books.
This is our fifth year and our overall record for four years is 639-370 (63.33%) Straight Up / 554-455. (54.91%) ATS Our total win based on 1 unit ($100.00): +$5357.50
Week one we always recommend that you do as we do and bet lightly (we play a half unit week one) as the predictor takes a few weeks to get all the statistical data in place and right now some of the statistics are based on the 2009-2010 season. Remember we do this for fun, so take it for what it is worth, especially early in the season. Remember we live in Nevada so it is legal for us to bet. If you live elsewhere this is just for giggles
This Weeks Games
| Week 1 | ||||||
| Thu, Sep 09 | Points | Adj | Net Pts | Pick | Spread | ATS Pick |
| Minnesota Vikings @ New Orleans Saints | 3.000 0.846 | -2 | 3.000 --1.154 | NWO -4.154 | NWO -6 | MIN |
| Sun, Sep 12 | Points | Adj | Net Pts | Pick | Spread | ATS Pick |
| Cleveland Browns @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 13.583 14.083 | -2 | 13.583 12.083 | TAM -1.5 | TAM -3 | CLE |
| Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills | 7.417 14.500 | -1 | 7.417 13.500 | MIA -6.083 | BUF +3 | MIA |
| Cincinnati Bengals @ New England Patriots | 5.750 3.917 | -2 | 5.750 1.917 | NWE -3.833 | NWE -4.5 | CIN |
| Indianapolis Colts @ Houston Texans | 0.917 7.167 | -1 | 0.917 6.167 | IND -5.25 | HOU +2.5 | IND |
| Denver Broncos @ Jacksonville Jaguars | 10.917 12.667 | -2 | 10.917 10.667 | JAC -0.25 | JAC -3 | DEN |
| Atlanta Falcons @ Pittsburgh Steelers | 4.583 7.000 | +0.5 | 4.583 7.500 | ATL -2.417 | PIT +2 | ATL |
| Oakland Raiders @ Tennessee Titans | 12.000 9.000 | -2 | 12.000 7.000 | TEN -5.00 | TEN -6.5 | OAK |
| Carolina Panthers @ New York Giants | 10.167 7.667 | -0.5 | 10.167 7.117 | NYG -3.05 | NYG -6.5 | CAR |
| Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears | 14.000 10.750 | -2 | 14.000 8.750 | CHI -5.25 | CHI -6.5 | DET |
| Arizona Cardinals @ St. Louis Rams | 9.250 15.750 | -1 | 9.250 14.750 | ARI -5.5 | STL +4 | ARI |
| Green Bay Packers @ Philadelphia Eagles | 2.917 6.083 | -1 | 2.917 5.083 | GNB -2.166 | PHI +3 | PHI |
| San Francisco 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks | 8.250 14.333 | -0.5 | 8.250 13.833 | SFO -5.583 | SEA +3 | SFO |
| Dallas Cowboys @ Washington Redskins | 1.917 10.667 | -2 | 1.917 8.667 | DAL -6.75 | WAS +3.5 | DAL |
| Mon, Sep 13 | Points | Adj. | Net Pts | Pick | Spread | ATS Pick |
| Baltimore Ravens @ New York Jets | 3.833 3.500 | -1.5 | 3.833 2.000 | NYJ -1.833 | NYJ -2.5 | BAL |
| San Diego Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs | 3.667 13.667 | -2 | 3.667 11.667 | SDG -8 | KAN +5 | SDG |
How the predictor works:
Power points are given from our computer based on over 50 criteria, with the lower number being strongest. Each point difference in a team reflects to a point on the scoreboard. Home field advantage is figured at 3 points. The number in the prediction is how many points the computer thinks they will win by. Take that and figure it to the spread if it is the same or a bigger number than the spread we take the favorite if it is smaller than the spread you take the underdog if you are in a ATS contest.
If you have the option of not picking teams anytime the difference in the prediction and the spread is less than 1 point do not play the game.
Adjustment is based on home record formula overall over last 3 years along with any major injuries
Reading Results: Red games are losses. If you bet based on the score differential given ATS at opening would be the ATS result
We count ATS ties as wins since you cant lose a tie. (we buy half points when possible)
Archives
NFL Game Predictor 2009 Archive
Overall 2009 Record:
153-87 (63.75%) Straight Up / 132-108 (55.00%) ATS
Total win based on 1 unit ($100.00): +$880.00
4 Year Running Record:
639-370 (63.33%) Straight Up / 554-455. (54.91%) ATS
Total win based on 1 unit ($100.00): +$5357.50
NFL Game Predictor 2008 Archive
Overall 2008 Record:
165-102 (62.00%) Straight Up / 140-127 (52.31%) ATS
Total win based on 1 unit ($100.00) - +$147.50
3 Year Running Record:
486-283 (63.29%) Straight Up / 422-347 (54.82%) ATS
Total win based on 1 unit ($100.00): +$4477.50
Overall Final 2007 Record:
172-79(68.53%) Straight Up / 147-104(58.57%) ATS
Total win based on 1 unit ($100.00): +2830.00
Overall 2007 Record:
172-79(68.53%) Straight Up / 147-104(58.57%) ATS
2007 Regular Season Record: 167-73(69.58%) Straight Up /141-99(58.75%) ATS
2007 Playoff Record: 5-6 Straight Up 6-5 ATS
2007 Complete Season to Date betting results at 1 unit: + $2830
(wins are figured at -110 so a won game pays 190.00)
Overall 2006 Record:
149-102 straight up 135-116 ATS 9-2 over/under
2006 Regular Season: 142-98 Straight Up / 131-109 ATS
2006 Playoff Record: 7-4 / 4-7 ATS 9-2 Over/Under
2006 Season betting results at 1 unit: + $1500
(wins are figured at -110 so a won game pays 190.00)
The NFL Game Predictor is our proprietary computer program that predicts game scores. Remember this site is for entertainment purposes only. So have some fun and compare your results with your friends
Note: Cross posted from SportzNutz.Permalink
NFC South 2010 Preview
Atlanta will be significantly improved with a healthy Michael Turner at running back and Peria Jerry at defensive tackle, but this division is New Orleans' to lose. The reigning champions' biggest loss in the offseason was the linebacker Scott Fujita, an emotional leader but ultimately only responsible for 43 tackles in 2009. The Falcons are improved and have an easier schedule than the Saints so they are going to have a tough time repeating this year.
Predicted finish: 1) New Orleans Saints 2) Atlanta Falcons 3) Carolina Panthers 4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
New Orleans Saints
Coming off a season for the ages, the Saints again will be the NFL's most dangerous team with the ball. Drew Brees throwing to Marques Colston, Devery Henderson, Robert Meachem, Jeremy Shockey, Lance Moore and Reggie Bush makes fans of big-play attacks salivate. Not to mention fantasy footballers. As long as the line stays steady and RB Pierre Thomas is healthy, the 500-point mark is reachable again.
Defensive leader Scott Fujita left the linebacking corps for Cleveland, while DE Charles Grant was released. But key safety Darren Sharper, an All-Pro safety, was re-signed - he'll miss six games with a left knee injury - and LB Jon Vilma, DE Will Smith and CB Tracy Porter are around to keep the Saints respectable on D. The play of the defensive ends opposite Will Smith will determine whether the Saints repeat as Super Bowl champions or go home after the early in the playoffs.
Coach Sean Payton has warned his players about a Super Bowl hangover. If the Saints avoid it - and they certainly have all the elements to do so - the only hangovers will be from the partying on Bourbon Street after a steady stream of victories this season.
We should know fairly quickly if any sign of contentment has slipped into the New Orleans locker room, because in the season's first five weeks the Saints will be challenged by two of their playoff opponents -- Minnesota and Arizona -- in addition to division rivals Atlanta and Carolina, and the improved 49ers. I don't see the Saints repeating their entire magic carpet ride of 2009, but they're too good to not become the NFC South's first repeat champion.
Atlanta Falcons
For the first time since they entered the league in 1966, the Falcons have had consecutive winning records. The caveat, of course, is they didn't get to the playoffs with their 9-7 mark last season.
They should do better this time, considering how many injuries hit in 2009. And the Falcons will be formidable because of their offense, which has most of the key parts in QB Matt Ryan, RB Michael Turner, TE Tony Gonzalez, WR Roddy White and a pretty good line that yielded only 27 sacks.
Adding cornerback Dunta Robinson should bolster a problematic secondary. LB Curtis Lofton could be a playmaker, and the Falcons desperately need one on defense. The best hope is a return to form by defensive end John Abraham, who slipped from 16½ sacks in 2008 to a paltry 5½ last year. But Abraham is entering his 11th NFL season and might be in permanent decline.
Matt Ryan remains an emerging star at quarterback, and look for him to make a sizable leap in his development after last year's half-step back. The key for Atlanta will be defensive improvement against the pass, and drawing Pittsburgh without Ben Roethlisberger and Arizona without Kurt Warner in the season's opening two weeks sure doesn't hurt so the Falcons could get off to a hot start.
Carolina Panthers
John Fox has reached the rarified atmosphere no NFL coach seeks: the final year of his contract. It's difficult enough reaching players when you have long-term security. Try it when you are a lame duck.
Fox also is without DE Julius Peppers, now in Chicago, and longtime QB Jake Delhomme, now in Cleveland, as he makes a final stand in Charlotte. Key linebacker Thomas Davis is likely sidelined for the season, and there are concerns about keeping healthy such important performers as WR Steve Smith, RBs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, and LB Jon Beason.
Both Stewart and Williams ran for more than 1,100 yards in 2009 and Fox needs similar numbers to get his team near last year's 8-8 record.
This is a very strange season in Carolina with nine starters from last year's 8-8 club either released or not re-signed, and head coach John Fox in the unusual situation of working in the final season of his contract. There's some talent on defense and in the running game, but Carolina doesn't have enough depth or impact players to put together anything approaching a playoff run in 2010.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
At least Raheem Morris won't be firing both of his coordinators in his second season at the helm. Unless, that is, he cans himself - Morris is coordinating the defense for Tampa Bay, and we're not talking about a body-rocking unit anymore.
Tampa allowed 400 points under the league's youngest coach, then drafted defensive players in the first three rounds: Oklahoma tackle Gerald McCoy, taken third overall; UCLA tackle Brian Price in the second round; and Vanderbilt cornerback Myron Lewis in the third. All three could find time as starters.
The offense is shaky, even though there are promising players on the line. Second-year QB Josh Freeman could have a long year because the skill positions are so questionable. The Bucs are pretty deep at running back, though, and Carnell Williams has a shot at reviving the old Cadillac after injuries slowed him.
The Bucs' youth movement is far from finished, and we're still in the process of finding out if Morris, 33, and general manager Mark Dominik have a plan that will produce incremental progress.
Note: Cross posted from SportzNutz.Permalink
AFC South 2010 Preview
We all know this division belongs to the Colts, but Tennessee appears poised to emerge as Indy's strongest challenger, as it has the talent to play the kind of keep-away, clock-control game to protect leads and Vince Young has always had the ability to come from behind. The Texans have a big-play offense to rival the Colts, but the loss of Brian Cushing for the first four games of the season could have them playing catch-up the rest of the season. As for the Jaguars, they don't stand a chance in this tough division.
Predicted finish: 1) Indianapolis Colts 2) Tennessee Titans 3) Houston Texans 4) Jacksonville Jaguars
Indianapolis Colts
It is very hard to find much to fault with the Colts. Sure, they lost the Super Bowl, but the Colts were the NFL's elite team over the 17-week season. Had new coach Jim Caldwell not rested his regulars in the final 1 1/2 games, Indy might very well have gone into the playoffs undefeated.
If Indy had a weakness, it was running the football. The Colts finished dead last in that category in '09, averaging 80.9 per game. People love to talk about that as a weakness however realize Indy treats the short pass just like the run. It is really a meaningless stat for this offense.
The Colts might challenge their 14-2 mark of a year ago if the offensive line comes together; right now, with center Jeff Saturday's status uncertain after right knee surgery, it's a question mark.
The other change this year is that Clyde Christenson is now the offensive coordinator. That makes no difference as we all know who calls the shots for the Colts offense and his name is Peyton.
Peyton Manning sets the pace for all quarterbacks. Make that all players. The NFL's only four-time MVP is a favorite for a fifth award, surrounded by the strongest cast on offense in the conference. That cast will be even deeper this year with the return of WR Anthony Gonzalez from a knee injury, and with the further maturation of RB Donald Brown to complement Joseph Addai. The line allowed just 13 sacks in 2009, and Manning will weave his magic to WRs Reggie Wayne, Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon, and TE Dallas Clark. The only problem the Colts could possibly have on offense are if Peyton gets injured (not likely), or more likely that they have some trouble with the new positioning of the umpire as they have in preseason.
Nobody can expect the Colts to keep that pace on defense, but if they rank in the middle of the league overall and improve their 24th-rated run D, home-field advantage for the playoffs easily is within reach. Key defenders Dwight Freeney, Gary Brackett and Antoine Bethea must stay healthy and Brackett has a right hand injury.
In the end they will win this division, however, how they fare in a late four-game stretch at the Patriots (Nov. 21), against the Chargers (Nov. 28), against the Cowboys (Dec. 5) and at the Titans (Dec. 9) should determine whether they'll have a first-round bye
Tennessee Titans
One reason Jeff Fisher is the longest-tenured coach with the same team is he knows how to listen to the owner. And Bud Adams made a good call last season.
The Titans plunged to 0-6 with Kerry Collins at quarterback, including a 59-0 annihilation at New England. Adams told Fisher he wanted him to bench Collins for Vince Young, and the Titans were among the league's best closers, going 8-2 the rest of the way and barely missing the playoffs. Young hardly was the main reason - that would be NFL Offensive Player of the Year Chris Johnson with his 2,006 yards rushing, 503 receiving and 16 TDs - but his maturity and playmaking abilities were critical.
This year Johnson has set a goal of hitting the 2,500-yard rushing mark. Though the odds against him are steep -- no back in NFL history has reached the 2,000-yard mark in consecutive years -- the Titans will certainly give him the opportunity. Tennessee rode Eddie George for eight years until his wheels fell off and we expect they will do the same with Johnson.
There are issues though, there's been transition on the offensive line and at linebacker, and the defense must improve against the pass, which means a stronger pass rush and stingier play in the secondary. Tennessee also lost some leaders in LB Keith Bulluck and C Kevin Mawae.
Tennessee will have to develop a stronger passing game to beat all of those eight-man fronts on the horizon and though Vince Young had a good enough second half last year, this year he will have to prove he can move that 8th or 9th defensive player off the line with his arm.
Bottom line, the Titans should be in the mix for a wild card playoff spot as long as they take care of business against the AFC West and at least hold their own in the division.
Houston Texans
Finally, a winning season for the Texans. In their ninth year of existence, the Texans won their last four games to wind up 9-7. Now, the folks in Houston are expecting at least a wild-card berth for the first time.
With a passing offense that led the league, sparked by Matt Schaub's rise at quarterback and the superb pass catching of Andre Johnson and TE Owen Daniels until he tore up his right knee midway through the schedule, the Texans could contend. They need to sort out their injury-hit backfield and find a go-to runner, particularly if Steve Slaton keeps losing his grip on the ball. Arian Foster could be the guy.
Houston has playmakers on defense in Mario Williams, DeMeco Ryans and Brian Cushing. But Cushing has a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy, and top CB Dunta Robinson is now a Falcon.
Houston has a tough schedule and wont be sneaking up on anyone this year and will have a hard time duplicating last years winning record. It could break either way for them and they should hover near .500 this year and just miss out on a playoff spot.
Jacksonville Jaguars
A sellout in Jacksonville? Could happen for Game 1, but not because of anything the Jaguars are doing. Denver will be in town, and a certain backup quarterback named Tim Tebow has something of a following in northern Florida - all of Florida, for that matter.
That might be the most interesting aspect of the entire season for the Jags. Coach Jack Del Rio almost certainly needs a bounce-back year to keep his job, but it's difficult to see more than six or seven victories on the schedule.
RB Maurice Jones-Drew is an elite player. The Jags will go only as far as he can carry them as He's the only one on a roster that needs significant improvement on both lines and more consistency from QB David Garrard.
With so many new pieces on defense and still so many questions about the offense, it's tough to see the Jaguars being much better than they were last year and should be in a dogfight with Houston for last place in the division and out of the playoffs.
Note: Cross posted from SportzNutz.Permalink
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
NFL Power Rankings – Preseason Edition
The NFL is ready to start and every team thinks it has a chance to win the Super Bowl before Week 1. Our computerized power rankings say otherwise and you can bet that one of these top ten teams will be there in the end.
| Rank | Team | Power Points | |
| 1 |  | The Saints are still the team to beat. | 0.846 |
| 2 |  | They were an uncharacteristic Peyton Manning mistake from winning it last year. They are still the AFC’s best. | 0.917 |
| 3 |  | Wade Phillips is likely coaching for his job again | 1.917 |
| 4 |  | We have to wait and see if Aaron Rodgers can win the big game. He has done everything else. | 2.917 |
| 5 |  | If they can handle things until they get truly healthy, they'll be around playoff time | 3.000 |
| 6 |  | The Jets are the sexy pick to win the Super Bowl after last seasons improbable run, but Mark Sanchez still has to convince me. | 3.500 |
| 7 |  | The tough part for Norv Turner is turning talent into a title | 3.667 |
| 8 |  | Baltimore isn't getting any younger on defense but it's still a feared unit. The offense has more weapons | 3.833 |
| 9 |  | The defense has concerns, but they will score a ton | 3.917 |
| 10 |  | If the Falcons stay healthy, the Saints could have their hands full in the NFC South. | 4.583 |
| 11 |  | The schedule sets up well and the defense is the biggest asset. If the offense can flourish with TO, look out | 5.750 |
| 12 |  | Philadelphia is relying on a new quarterback for the first time in forever and playing in arguably the toughest division in football | 6.083 |
| 13 |  | The Steelers hope to come away with a 2-2 record before their bye week and the return of Big Ben | 7.000 |
| 14 |  | Can the Texans finally make a postseason run? They have been oh so close the last three years. | 7.167 |
| 15 |  | The Dolphins are the San Francisco 49ers of the AFC. They hit you hard on both sides of the ball. | 7.417 |
| 16 |  | The defense was pulverized with injuries last year, they will be better this year. | 7.667 |
| 17 |  | The 49ers should be able to unseat the Cardinals with a strong defense and running game. | 8.250 |
| 18 |  | Vince Young came in and went 8-2 to finish while Chris Johnson is the best in the business. Now to see how they do for a whole year. | 9.000 |
| 19 |  | The Cardinals coaches think this is their most talented team. It's too bad it might all go to waste because of quarterback play | 9.250 |
| 20 |  | Matt Moore has plenty of playmakers on offense at his disposal. | 10.167 |
| 21 |  | Donovan McNabb and Mike Shanahan will make the Redskins competitive. But they play in a tough division | 10.667 |
| 22 |  | Jay Cutler looked horrible in preseason. For this team to have any chance at making the playoffs, Cutler has to get better. | 10.750 |
| 23 |  | The loss of starting OLB Elvis Dumervil has to be devastating to as team that cannot afford injuries. | 10.917 |
| 24 |  | Jason Campbell is an improvement but how big is still undetermined | 12.000 |
| 25 |  | We have already begun the debate on weapons, protection and quality of quarterbacking. | 12.667 |
| 26 |  | There just isn't enough talent on either side of the ball for Cleveland to make serious improvement this season | 13.583 |
| 27 |  | Pioli did a nice job of addressing some of the needs on offense in the offseason, but there's still the issue of getting better play out of QB Matt Cassel. | 13.667 |
| 28 |  | Matt Stafford and Jahvid Best are nice building blocks on offense. They will be in a lot of shootouts | 14.000 |
| 29 |  | The receiver position still remains as a big issue, but at least they have an exciting rookie in Mike Williams | 14.083 |
| 30 |  | I'm all for new head coaches getting their own personnel, but this is ridiculous. Do they still have the same cheerleaders? | 14.333 |
| 31 |  | The good news is rookie C.J. Spiller might be the next Chris Johnson, and they will likely have a top 5 pick in next April's draft. | 14.500 |
| 32 |  | Sam Bradford's development (so far) gives the Rams reason for optimism heading into Week 1 but he cannot do it alone. | 15.750 |
The Computerized NFL Power Rankings are our proprietary computer program that ranks teams based on over 50 factors. Remember this site is for entertainment purposes only. So have some fun and compare your results with your friends
Note: Cross posted from SportzNutz.Permalink
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