And So Goes Another Season! Week 17

Not sure what happened with last week's post, it disappeared on me. But I didn't do so well on my picks, I was 1-3, bringing my total to 34-30.

I will have a full season recap, plus playoff preview next week, but here are my picks:
Denver (-3.5) against Kansas City
Orton's revenge - Chiefs 29 - Tebow's 23

Oakland (-2.5) against San Diego
Just Win Baby! - Raiders 31 - Chargers 21

NY Giants (-3.5) against Dallas
How Bout Them Cowboys - Giants 10 - Cowboys 9

Upset Special
Baltimore (-2.5) @ Cincinnati
Bengals 27 - Ravens 17

See you in the Playoffs!!

Week 16 - Coming into the Home Stretch

Something happened with week 16 post.
Power 10:
1. Green Bay
2. San Francisco
3. New England
4. New Orleans
5. Pittsburgh
6. Baltimore
7. Atlanta
8. Detroit
9. Houston
10. Denver

Last Week, I went 3-1, bringing my total to 33-27

Week 15

If i had an MVP vote, i would have to think long and hard about voting for Peyton Manning. With him, the Colts win 10 games a year, without him 0fer.
Here's how my top 5 voting would be:
1. Aaron Rodgers
2. Tom Brady
3. Eli Manning
4. Peyton Manning
5. LeSean McCoy
6. Tim Tebow

Buffalo spiraling out of control. Ryan Fitzpatrick and company can't stop the bleeding. Their 6 game losing streak has sent them reeling. Nothing is going right, MVP Candidate, Fred Jackson was IRed a few weeks ago.

Todd Haley & Tony Sporano make a total of 3 casualties. And I'm predicting 2 more before week 17, I'm talking about you Steve Spagnuolo, Rahem Morris and/or Norv Turner. How about Rob Ryan taking over in Miami and its a nice rivalry with brother Rex. Or Jeff Fisher in KC. Maybe Jon Gruden in Jacksonville?

A shout out to Houston Texans for reaching the playoff for the first time in franchise history.

Here's the Power 10
1. Green Bay Packers
2. Baltimore Ravens
3. New Orleans Saints
4. San Francisco 49ers
5. New England Patriots
6. Houston Texans
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Denver Broncos
9. New York Jets
10. Atlanta Falcons

Last week I was 2-2, bringing my total to 30-26. I am going to do things a little different this week, instead of 1 upset special, I am going to pick 3. First, the non upset special:
Cincinnati (-4.5) @ St.Louis
The Bengals are playing for the playoff lives and it can't get any better than the Rams. The Rams are reeling, they are a mess. This is the kind of team the Bengals need to get out of their slump. Injured, uninspired and watching the scoreboard for season to end. I think Andy Dalton and AJ Green come up huge this week and lead the Bengals to a Huge win.
Bengals 38 - Rams 16

Upset Special 1
Dallas (-6.5) @ Tampa
Both teams are a mess, both coaches are on the hot seat, both QBs are all of the sudden under achieving and both defenses are playing somewhat lethargic. The difference right now is I think Josh Freeman has an upside and I think we've seen Tony Romo's best. The Cowboys have been in close games 6 of the last 7 weeks and none of these games should have been close. I think The Bucs pull one out and leaves the 'Boys reeling again.
Bucs 27 - Cowboys 26

Upset Special 2
Tennessee (-6.5) @ Indianapolis
As the starting lineups are announced, out comes Peyton Manning, in pads and helmet. Well, not quite yet, but this game says stinker all over it. Tennessee started out playing so well, but I think they are going to over look Indy, especially with Houston clinching the division. The Colts shock the world with this one.
Colts 31 - Titans 19

Upset Special 3
NY Giants (-7.5) against Washington
Another game that says stinker all over it. The Giants pull out a great win over Dallas last week and they are flying high and there is no doubt they will over look the Redskins. Normally, I would say I don't blame them. The Redskins have been lousy, poorly coached and poorly performed. But I think they will catch the Giants Defense off guard.
Redskins 22 - Giants 17

The NBA does it again

Just when I thought I couldn't dislike the NBA anymore, the Commish concedes to pressure from small market owners and revokes a trade between the LA, Houston & New Orleans involving Chris Paul. Wow, talk about being a patsy, David Stern. This is why 2/3s of your teams are losing money.

I think it's time for the commish to hang up his career and retire to Del Boca Vista. When was the last time in a major professional sport a trade was revoked just because?

I hope Chris Paul sues the NBA and bankrupts those small market owners. As much as I dislike the Lakers, they deserve better than this.

David Stern and company are an embarrassment and it's sad after a 130+ day lockout, he does not have 100% support of the owners.

Albert Pojuls

I am not an Albert Pojuls fan at all, but I have to commend him on his new 10yr/$25Million contract with the Angels. I know Cardinal fan doesn't want to hear this, but you are better off in 10 years without him.

Like most 32 year olds, you talent diminishes in the next few years and I say within 4 years, Pojuls' career should be winding down. At least in AL, he will play DH. The Cardinals need to focus on replacing him, possibly Prince Fielder? Jimmy Rollins?

Lance Berkman can go back to his normal first base and now there is a lot pressure on Matt Holliday. The Cards can sign a Michael Cuddyer or wait til next seasons free agent crop. Point is, why overspend and get locked into a bad contract when you can do the smart thing. Besides, I always found Pojuls to be a diva, ala Brett Favre

Week 14

How 'bout them Cowboys!! With the Eagles and Redskins barely hanging on and the Giants losing 4 in a row, the Cowboys had a chance to put themselves in a position to put the NFC East out of reach. But Coach Garrett showed his lack of coaching ability. With 2 timeouts left and 26 seconds remaining, and barely in field goal range, Garrett lets the clock tick down and sets up for a 49 yard field goal, but than calls a timeout to freeze his own kicker? Seriously. The kicker misses it and they go on to loss in OT. The Cowboys are poorly coached, poorly managed and poorly perform. With 2 of their final 4 games against the Giants, technically, anyone can win the NFC East.

Tim Tebow is probably the most interesting story in the NFL this season. He is drafted by the previous regime, he is third on the depth chart and after a public outcry, he gets a chance to start. His play isn't pretty, but the results are amazing. The Broncos are in first place and could actually make the playoffs. The sad part is, their GM doesn't think he has what it takes to lead his team. The same guy who got drafted by the Colts put of Stanford, said he would rather play baseball, than with Colts. Well, he got his way by going to the Broncos and at the end of his career, he won 2 championships. My point is, the NFL is about winning. Style points are nice, but winning makes money. Tim Tebow is a winner and has shown it throughout his life. Give the guy a chance, a legitimate chance, or send him to a place that would.

I wish the Donovan McNabb story would have a happy ending. Something like Donovan running off the field with the Lombardi trophy in hand, but his career will be known for being booed and chased out of Philly. He's a hall of famer, a 6-time pro bowler, but never won a Super Bowl. Here's hoping he gets one last chance to win a championship.

Here are the power top 10:
1. Green Bay Packers
2. San Francisco 49ers
3. Pittsburgh Steelers
4. Baltimore Ravens
5. New Orleans Saints
6. New England Patriots
7. Denver Broncos
8. Houston Texans
9. New York Jets
10. Miami Dolphins

Last Week, 1-4, bringing the total to 28-24.
New Orleans (-4.5) @ Tennessee
The Saints should just blow right by the Titans. But with the resurgence of Chris Johnson, it should be a close game.
Saints 31 - Titans 23

Denver (-3.5) against Chicago
I'm riding the Broncos. Between the great defense and Tebow, it's hard to pick against them. Chicago needs Marion Barber to step up and control the tempo of the game
Broncos 17 - Bears 9

Dallas (-3.5) against NY Giants
Both teams need to step up. Both teams aren't coached particularly well. Both QBs make big plays. It's going to come down to defense.
Cowboys 23 - Giants 17

Upset special
San Francisco (-3.5) @ Arizona
The 49ers will have a down game which in the long run, will help them refocus. The Cards are coming off a a big one and they should build on it, although it might be a little too little, little too late.
Cardinals 28 - 49ers 17

Week 13 - The Axe Cometh

Well Jack Del Rio is the first casualty head coach, but will he be the last during the regular season? Del Rio did an admirable job in a tough spot. He will be a Defensive Coordinator next season and eventually a head coach again. Jacksonville is a tough place to win. It's a minor league atmosphere with no tradition. And with owners Wayne Weaver selling the team, let the speculation when will they move to LA? I'm still sticking with the Chargers and/or Raiders moving to LA. I see either Jax or Minnesota moving to San Antonio, but that's for another column.

Speaking of San Diego, will NorCal Turner be the next casualty? I think San Diego should look long and hard at GM AJ Smith and is he really right for the job? The Rams job will be open too, but I think Steve Spagnola deserves another shot, but let the speculation of him returning to the Eagles as Defensive Coordinator.

The playoff picture is getting much clearer here in week 13. The AFC looks like this New England, NY Jets, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Cincinnati, Houston, Tennessee, Oakland and Denver (yes Denver). In the NFC it's Dallas, NY Giants, Atlanta, New Orleans, Green Bay, Chicago, Detroit, San Francisco.

The biggest disappointments have to be San Diego and Philadelphia. Both were thought to be Super Bowl Contenders, but some bad luck and poor play led to bad years. I feel both will bounce back and their respective coaches deserve at least another year.

Power Top 10
1. Green Bay Packers
2. New England Patriots
3. New Orleans Saints
4. Baltimore Ravens
5. San Francisco 49ers
6. Pittsburgh Steelers
7. Atlanta Falcons
8. Houston Texans
9. Chicago Bears
10. Oakland Raiders

Last week, another 3-1 week to bring my total up to 27-21.

Minnesota (-1.5) against Denver
I don't know if Tim Tebow is the real deal, but he's winning. It's not NFL pretty, but he's turning everyone into believers. Minnesota has been disappointing and will they risk playing AP? The Vikings Defense will be ready for Tebow, but until he loses, it's hard to bet against him.
Broncos 19 - Vikings 14

Atlanta (-2.5) @ Houston
The Texans have dug themselves in a hole now playing the third string QB. and who knows maybe TJ Yates will turn out to be the next Tom Brady, but until he proves it on the field, it's hard to buy them as legitimate contenders. Steady Matt Ryan is very consistent and they have a solid offense. Atlanta's Defense has to step it up if they have a chance of surprising anyone. This will be their first test in a stretch run and I see them succeeding
Falcons 24 - Texans 19

Green Bay (-6.5) @ New York Giants
The Giants are collapsing and the Packers are getting stronger. I thought the Giants would play above their talent and coaching, I'm wrong. Aaron Rodgers is playing as if he wants the Packers to forget about a certain Diva QB ever played there. Rodgers is all world and if their defense keeps it close, Rodgers will score.
Packers 38 - Giants 27

Upset Special
Pittsburgh (-6.5) against Cincinnati
The Steelers are coasting and that was evident in the KC game last week. Roethlesberger is playing with a broken finger and maybe that will effect his passing, but the Bengals are for real. Andy Dalton and AJ Green are not playing like rookies. In fact, I'm waiting for a breakout game and this is it. A stunner to muddle up the wild card picture in the AFC.
Bengals 33 - Steelers 28

Week 12 - Happy Turkey Day

First time in I can't remember how long, the Detroit Lions are relevant on Thanksgiving. Their from behind win against the Panthers last week gives them a ton of momentum coming into the Packers game. The Lions are the kind of team I see giving the Packers a run for their money and if they can control the line of scrimmage, the can upset the undefeated Pack.

Jay Cutler's season is probably over and it couldn't happen at a worse time. The Bears were making a run to the playoffs and Cutler went from a punching bag the first few weeks, to a pro bowler in the last 8. Coach Lovie Smith seems to think he will be back for the post season, but I don't see it. Maybe next year Chicago.

Biggest Disappointment - San Diego Chargers & New York Jets. Mathematically they are both in it, but I just don't see either of them making the playoffs. Jets offense has been average at best. They lack a ball controlling running back and QB Mark Sanchez hasn't made bigger strides to become an elite QB. The Chargers just aren't that good. Phil Rivers is a nice QB, but he hasn't stepped up to an elite one. He has a funky delivery and I don't see that changing. They haven't replaced LT and Antonio Gates has been oft injured. I see them finishing 500 and probably replacing the coach.

Top 10
1. Green Bay Packers
2. San Francisco 49ers
3. Pittsburgh Steelers
4. New England Patriots
5. New Orleans Saints
6. Chicago Bears
7. Dallas Cowboys
8. Baltimore Ravens
9. Houston Texans
10. Detroit Lions

Last week I went 3-1 again, bringing my total to 24-20.

Houston (-3.5) @ Jacksonville
Jax is a home dog, I think they ate too inconsistent. Blaine Galbert hasn't showed me he will be a good NFL QB. This Matt Leinart's shot to show he will get a second chance. The Texans gave too good of a ground game and I don't see Leinart making too many mistakes.
Texans 27 - Jags 10

Oakland (-4.5) against Chicago
Young QB making his first start in Oakland will be tough. The Bears will have to run the ball and I see Oakland putting 9 guys in the box forcing Caleb Hanie to make average receivers viable. Carson Palmer has another week working with his young receiver corp.
Raiders 24 - Bears 13

Baltimore (-3.5) against San Francisco
Coming east has not affected the 49ers at all. The Ravens have been the most inconsistent team all season, beating Pittsburgh twice and losing to Seattle and Jacksonville. I think the good Ravens show up for this huge game on Thanksgiving night.
Ravens 24 - 49ers 17

Upset Special
New Orleans (-6.5) against New York Giants
Giants came off SNF game looking bad against a beat up Eagles team. The Saints coming off a bye are rested and ready. I think this is a throw away game for the Saints and Eli Manning will light up the Saints secondary.
Giants 35 - Saints 31

Happy Thanksgiving

Week 11

Lots of interesting things happened last week that will change the complexion of the remainder of the season. Houston loses Matt Schaub for the rest of the season with a foot injury. The Texans were playing great, despite injuries to their best offensive and defensive weapon. Andre Johnson is replaceable because Schaub was able to spread the ball around. Plus they had a great 1-2 punch running the ball with Arian Foster and Ben Tate. Defensively, Mario Williams is a huge missing piece, but despite him being out for the rest of the season, the defense was playing great. Now, with Schaub out, former Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart steps into the spot light. This Leinart's last chance, if he screws up, his NFL career is over. I think he has a good chance to succeed. He's in a great system and the expectations are low.

The KC Chiefs also lost their starting QB, Matt Cassel for the rest of the season. I thought the Chiefs might have stunned the rest of AFC West, but that doesn't look good. In fact, I don't things look too promising for coach, Todd Haley (see below).

Green Bay Packers are a machine. I don't think they will go undefeated, but who will beat them? And the fact they are in an extremely competitive division, I see them playing hard the rest of the way out. I still don't think they will repeat, it's way too hard to do that, but who will beat them?

Philadelphia Eagles lack of execution is their biggest problem this season. Maybe because of the lack of off season training or maybe they just haven't gelled together yet, but something has to give. Right now the popular choice is blaming the coach, but Andy Reid isn't taking stupid penalties or turning the ball over in the red zone. The players have to take accountability and play smart.

Every year there are always coaches on the hot seat, here's a list of the 10 coaches who may or may not be back next season. Also, the odds they will be gone:
Coaches on the Hot Seat:
1. Tony Sporano 98%
2. Jim Caldwell 77%
3. Jack Del Rio 92%
4. Norv Turner 55%
5. Andy Reid 15%
6. Mike Shanahan 33%
7. Leslie Frazier 21%
8. Steve Spagnola 45%
9. Ken Wisenhunt 37%
10. Todd Haley 28%

Power Top 10
1. Green Bay Packers
2. San Francisco 49ers
3. New Orleans Saints
4. Houston Texans
5. Chicago Bears
6. Pittsburgh Steelers
7. New England Patriots
8. New York Giants
9. Cincinnati Bengals
10. Detroit Lions

Last week, I went 2-2, bringing my total to 21-19

Detroit (-6.5) against Carolina
The Lions have hit a bump in the road. They are not running the ball they way the want to, thus it's hurting their passing game. This week, Matthew Stafford will lead his team past an up and coming Panther team. Cam Newton is going to have some growing pains and the more he plays, the more film they will have to break down.
Lions 29 - Panthers 21

Green Bay (-14.5) against Tampa Bay
It's hard to bet against the Packers. They just keep scoring at will and if their defense can contain their opponents, they will be even tougher to beat. The Bucs have taken a step back from last season and that's to be expected with a second year coach/ QB.
Packers 44 - Bucs 24

Cincinnati (+7.5) @ Baltimore
Is there a more inconsistent team in the NFL than The Ravens? They beat the Steelers twice, but have lost to Seattle and Jacksonvile. I am not sure if Joe Flacco is a top tier QB. The Bengals are coming off a tough loss at Pittsburgh, now back on the road in Baltimore doesn't make it any easier. Andy Dalton keeps growing as a QB and AJ Green is as good as advertised. This going to be a close game.
Bengals 21 - Ravens 20


Upset Special
Atlanta (-6.5) against Tennessee
I've given up on the Falcons. I think it's a down year and their defense is not that good. Tennessee sees an opening with Houston's injuries. Matt Hasselbeck is a veteran and Chris Johnson is coming of his best game of the season
Titans 27 - Falcons 23

Week 10

You can't sleep on the Chicago Bears. Jay Cutler is a tremendous QB if he stays up right. He has good velocity on the ball, but he throws to average at best receivers. Roy Williams should be out of the league. Johnny Knox and Earl Bennett are number 3 receivers at best. Matt Forte and Marion Barber are a great RB combination and the O line coming together. The Defense always keeps the Bears close. The biggest obstacle will be Detroit and this week will be the judge how good the Bears really are.

I still like the Texans and when Andre Johnson returns their offense should pick up. Matt Schaub may never be in the class of Brady and Manning, but he is a top 10 QB and I think he will lead the Texans to their first playoff appearance.

Eli Manning is an elite QB and yet no one seems to give him his due. He won a Superbowl despite his head coach. When everyone counts him out, he puts up a huge game and makes everyone see how good he truly is.

The Washington Redskins are right where I thought they'd be. Mike Shanahan is a fraud. And if he is brought back next season, it will show the true ineptness that is the Washington Redskins.

Here Are my top 10 Elite QBs of 2011
1. Aaron Rodgers
2. Tom Brady
3. Drew Brees
4. Ben Roethlisberger
5. Eli Manning
6. Jay Cutler
7. Matt Schaub
8. Ryan Fitzpatrick
9. Cam Newton
10. Andy Dalton

The Power Top 10
1. Green Bay Packers
2. San Francisco 49ers
3. New York Giants
4. Atlanta Falcons
5. Cincinnati Bengals
6. New Orleans Saints
7. New York Jets
8. Houston Texans
9. Detroit Lions
10. Chicago Bears

Last week I finally broke .500 by going 3-1, bringing my totals to 19-17. With Thursday Night Football kicking off this week, here are my week 10 picks a day early.

Indianapolis (+2) against Jacksonville
The Colts are bad, I've said this many times before, but not 0-16 bad. Jacksonville is bad and despite a few more wins, I don't see them much better than Indy. The Colts will win 2-4 games this year and this will be their first. Blaine Galbert is still learning the ropes and I just don't see him as a top QB. I see Indy's Defense all over him
Colts 27 - Jags 14

Miami (-3.5) against Washington
Let's break up the Dolphins, because they will win their second in a row. Matt Moore will have a huge game and get South Beach to actually think he can be the QB of the future. Although I don't see Tony Sporano's job saved, I do see the Dolphins winning big again this week.
Dolphins 38 - Redskins 17

Chicago (-2.5) against Detroit
The Bears are for real and this is their biggest game of the season. Jay Cutler needs to show everyone he is the Man and put the memory of last season's NFC Championship behind him. Detroit will have some rocky games and I don't think they have the running game to control the game.
Bears 24 - Lions 21

Upset Special
Dallas (-5.5) against Buffalo
Dallas is not that good. Buffalo is trying to find themselves. This is a must win for the Bills if they have any hope of a playoff spot and I think Chan Gailey comes back to Dallas and smacks them in the face and beats America's Team. And once again, the critics will be wondering if Tony Romo is a true elite QB.
Bills 29 - Cowboys 27

Week 9 halfway through the season

I definitely feel the lockout has effected most of the teams in a negative way. Most teams could have used the OTAs and normal training camps to improve their continuity. Let's review each division:

AFC West:
I thought San Diego would run away with this division, but they have been inconsistent. Ryan Matthews hasn't become an elite back which I thought he would have. KC is showing a lot after losing Jamal Charles. Todd Haley and Matt Cassel are showing me last season wasn't a fluke. Oakland is all in after trading for Carson Palmer. Denver should have traded Kyle Orton when they had a chance.
I think Oakland wins the division.

AFC North:
The best division in football. You can make an argument for any of the top 3 teams winning the division. Cincinnati is the surprise of the NFL this season. If it wasn't for Cam Newton, Andy Dalton would have a strong case for rookie of the year. The Steelers still have plenty in tank and Big Ben is in the prime of his career. I'm not sold on Baltimore. Joe Flacco has to show he can win games.
Pittsburgh win the division.

AFC South:
I thought the Houston Texans would run away with this division, but with the loss of Andre Johnson and Mario Williams, they are still in first place. I am really surprised how bad the Colts are without Peyton Manning. I thought they would win a few games, but it looks like they don't care. All the talk is if they get the first pick in the next draft, what do they? Andrew Luck or trade Peyton Manning? Tennessee has surprised me, but when its all said and done, I see them as 500 team.
Houston wins the division.

AFC East:
Very competitive division, at least 3 teams are. Buffalo has been a tremendous surprise, but I keep waiting for them to come back to earth. The Patriots have the most potent offense, but a below average defense and the Jets are just muddled in inconsistency. It's time for one of these three teams to step and win this division. Just not sure who will do it.
Jets win the division.

NFC West: San Fran is the class of the division and probably the second best team in the conference. I am surprised the Rams haven't been better. I really thought they would have a solid defense and Sam Bradford would step up as a top QB, ala Matt Ryan. I still haven't given up hope on them, but I think it will be next season, not this. Seattle signing Tavaris Jackson makes no sense to me. He was average at best in Minnesota and I think they would have been better off drafting a QB and re-signing Hasselbeck. Arizona will have a new regime next season and it will be interesting how Kolb and Fitzgerald play.
San Fran wins the division

NFC North: Very competitive division, but the Packers are just heads and tails above the rest. The Lions and Bears will be fighting for a wildcard spot and they both might knock each other out. The Lions need to stay healthy if they have any chance of getting into the playoffs. Minnesota has been a huge disappointment for me, I thought Donovan McNabb would resurrect his career, but it looks like he will end it there.
Green Bay wins the division

NFC South: I loved New Orleans before the season started. I thought they had a nice mix of leaders and winners to make a legitimate run, but there are a lot of gapping holes and I am not sure if they are even a playoff team. Atlanta needs to get to their stuff together, lots of potential, but small window to succeed. Tampa is a mystery, after last season's surprising 10-6 record, I don't see an improvement.
Atlanta wins the division

NFC East: The Redskins stink, The Cowboys are overrated and the Giants are a mystery. The Eagles are usually a great second half team. I don't know how this plays out, but it's hard to pick against the Giants, they always find a way to win.
Giants win the division

Power rankings:
1. Green Bay Packers
2. San Francisco 49ers
3. Pittsburgh Steelers
4. New England Patriots
5. Buffalo Bills
6. Detroit Lions
7. Houston Texans
8. Cincinnati Bengals
9. New Orleans Saints
10. (tie) New York Jets / New York Giants

Last week, once again 2-2, bringing my total to an even 16-16.
New Orleans (-7.5) against Tampa Bay
The Saints will come out and spread things out and see if the Bucs can keep up. I just don't think the Bucs have the weapons or defense to keep it close.
Saints 38 - Bucs 24

Green Bay (-5.5) @ San Diego
It's hard to bet against the Packers, especially with the inconsistency of San Diego. The Chargers will have a corp of injured RBs and if you can't control the ball, the Packers will eat you up.
Packers 31 - Chargers 17

Pittsburgh (-3.5) against Baltimore
After getting blown out in week 1 by Baltimore, I see Pittsburgh returning the favor. Big Ben is hot and I think they pick apart the Ravens Defense. And until I see Joe Flacco win a game, not manage it, I have a hard time believing they are for real
Steelers 28 - Ravens 23

Upset Special
Bills (-1.5) against NY Jets
This isn't a huge upset, except the Bills are undefeated at home. I think the Jets pull this one out and show they are back. I think Sanchez and company controls the tempo and wins.
Jets 19 - Bills 17

Week 8 is great!

We are almost at the half way point of the NFL Season and I am not too impressed with all of the football. It's most likely due to the lockout, but at this point games should get better.

Green Bay is much better than any one else. I don't see them going undefeated, but it will take a lot to stop their potent offense. Aaron Rodgers slipping down the 2004 draft to 23rd pick, sitting behind the Diva for a few years and just picking up the game without the pressure of being a top pick has been so beneficial. The Packers have been put together to win long term and what we are seeing now is a culmination of great management and excellent coaching.

The Colts are the complete opposite. They are a one show pony and his name is Peyton Manning. Manning is so valuable to Indy and in his absence, all of their gapping holes have been brought to the forefront. Manning should be back next season and the Colts will have a high pick. It will be interesting to see how the team will be rebuilt next season.

I am not a Cowboys fan. Tony Romo hasn't showed me he can win consistently under pressure. He has weapons around him and a much improved Offensive Line. But I'm not buying them yet. This Sunday's game against the Eagles will tell a lot about them.

My biggest surprise so far this season has been Cincinnati. I loved the selections of AJ Green and Andy Dalton, but I didn't think they would get their 4th win til week 17. I still think they are an 8-8 team, but I get more impressed by them each week. Trading Carson Palmer for 2 high draft picks puts a lot of pressure on the front office to make quality selections and build a team ala Green Bay.

Power 10
1. Green Bay Packers
2. New England Patriots
3. New Orleans Saints
4. San Francisco 49ers
5. Pittsburgh Steelers
6. Buffalo Bills
7. Houston Texans
8. New York Jets
9. Detroit Lions
10. Cincinnati Bengals

Last week I went 2-2, keeping up my average of .500 14-14. This week:
Baltimore (-12.5) against Arizona
The Ravens coming off a pitiful performance against the Jags on Monday Night Football is one of those things they will look back at the end of the season and say, if we won that game, we would have won the division, instead of the being a wildcard team. The Ravens still are good and it's time for Joe Flacco to step up his game. They do not have a deep threat, but they have Ray Rice, so use him early and often. The Ravens Veterans know what they will have to do and I think they will be all over Kevin Kolb. Speaking of Kolb, he has a long way to go to be a top 10 QB, but their is potential. I feel there will be a new regime in Arizona next season and they will be on their way to winning. Unfortunately, that will do nothing for this week.
Ravens 37 - Cardinals 23

Houston (-9.5) against Jacksonville
The Texans were my team in the beginning of the season to take a huge step forward. Last week was a statement game from the Texans, manhandling the Titans by over 30 points. I think the fun continues this week against Jacksonville. Despite Andre Johnson and Mario Williams being out, the Texans have more than enough talent to make up for their ailing superstars. Matt Schaub is one of the premier QBs in the league and now its time to show he is a top 5 guy. The Jags are a mess, I think they played their best game against Baltimore Monday night and they have nothing left, especially on a short week.
Texans 35 - Jags 11

Buffalo (-5.5) against Washington (In Toronto)
I am not a Mike Shanahan fan. I am not a Washington fan. I think they are a marriage made in hell, unless you are a fan of another NFC East team. Instead of trying to get a QB to develop, the Redskins have put D level guys in their. I don't expect them to win more than 3 games the rest of the way out, sorry John Beck, you seem like a good guy. The Bills are so close, despite injuries, they are in every game. They should have beaten the Giants, but lost to the Eagles. I think with a week off, they come back and blow out the Redskins, a true statement game
Bills 44 - Redskins 17

Upset Special
Detroit (-3.5) @ Denver
Are a Tebow believer yet? I didn't think so. But NO ONE can live up to this hype. Tim Tebow is a project and he's in the wrong system. But, this is a great second game for him. The Lions are hurt, they are coming off 2 tough loses and a young team like this will start to have doubt. If the Broncos can A. establish some kind of running back and manage the clock and B. put pressure on the Lions QB and C. contain Calvin Johnson than D. The Broncos win this game. Heck, I think the Broncos will win this game regardless and the legend will continue to grow!
Broncos 23 - Lions 20

Week 7

After 6 weeks, it's safe to say who the haves and have nots are. But, first off, I'd like to congratulate The Bengals Mike Brown for putting his ego behind what's best for the team. The Bengals get 1 possibly 2 first round picks from the Raiders and free themselves from Carson Palmer. Palmer didn't want to be there and the Bengals didn't need him.

More QB news, Donovan McNabb has been benched by Minnesota and probably is the end of the road for him. He'll look good on tv next year.

Rex Grossman benched for John Beck and Washington will finish 8-8 at best

Tim Tebow starts in Miami as he is honored for his UF days, huh?? Makes sense to get people at the game, but why have Dol-fans cheer for the opponent? Speaking of Dolphins, Tony Sporano will be out as coach in 2 weeks.

The Top 10
1. Green Bay Packers
2. See No. 1
3. New England Patriots
4. Baltimore Ravens
5. San Francisco 49ers
6. Detroit Lions
7. Buffalo Bills
8. San Diego Chargers
9. Cincinnati Bengals
10. New Orleans Saints

Last week 2-2, 12-12 for the season.

Cleveland (-3.5) against Seattle
The Browns are up and coming and every week they will get better. Colt McCoy is turning into a solid NFL QB. Seattle is up and down, they are too unpredictable.
Browns 33 - Seahawks 26

Carolina (-2.5) against Washington
I just don't buy into the Redskins. Grossman, Beck it doesn't matter, they aren't that good. Cam Newton is getting better. Plus the Panthers' running game is coming alive
Panthers 27 - Redskins 17

Dallas (-12.5) against St. Louis
Sam Bradford has a high ankle sprain. Steven Jackson isn't 100%. Rams defense isn't that good. Tony Romo has almost all his weapons and DeMarco Murray is going to have his coming out party.
Cowboys 44 - Rams 27

Upset Special
New Orleans (-13.5) against Indianapolis
The Colts will win a game this year, unfortunately, this won't be it. But, they will keep it relatively close.
Saints 27 - Colts 14

Week 6

After 5 weeks, things are starting to fall in place bThe Detroit Lions are for real. The Green Bay Packers look invincible. The Patriots offense is awesome, their defense looks pedestrian. The Bills keep winning, The Bengals are surprising and The Panthers are getting close. The Eagles, Jets and Colts are
Underachieving. The AFC West is more open than I thought it would be, plus the Tim Tebow experiment officially begins on week 7.

Power Top 10:
1. Green Bay
2. New England
3. Detroit
4. San Francisco
5. New Orleans
6. Baltimore
7. San Diego
8. Washington
9. Pittsburgh
10. Cincinnati

Here are my picks. Last week I was 1-3, bringing me up to 10-10.

Green Bay (-14.5) against St. Louis.
I can't see St. Louis competing in this game Aaron Rodgers will throw for 500 yards and I don't see the Packers punting the whole game.
Packers 48 - Rams 21

Oakland (-5.5) against Cleveland.
An emotional game for the Raiders and I see them beating the Browns rather easily.
Raiders 26 - Browns 13

New England (-7.5) against Dallas.
I don't expect much defense. I'm not sold on Rob Ryan and I see Tom Brady picking the Dallas D apart. Tony Romo will also come up big, but not big enough.
Pats 38 - Cowboys 28

Upset Special
Buffalo (+4.5) @ NY Giants
The Bills find ways to win. Tom Coughlin is not a good coach. Eli will throw the ball plenty, but the Bills will be ready.
Bills 23 - Giants 21

Still Early

As an Eagle fan, my second worse fear has come to fruition, a 1-4 start. But looking at the last 4 games, the team is probably better than their record shows. They were either winning or down by 1 score in every loss and I'd argue should have won at least 2 of those games.

I thought the Eagles were an 11-5 team before the season started and at this part of the season I thought they would be 3-2 (losing to St. Louis & San Francisco). But they are a lot closer than the city of Brotherly Love thinks.

It's time to get back to the fundamentals or as close as you can with Michael Vick as Quarterback. They need to cut down on all mistakes. No stupid penalties. They need to hold on to the ball. They need to tackle and block. No more dropsies. Of course every team says the sane thing. The only difference, the Eagles have talent and probably more than any other team.

The good news is they still have plenty of time. They have 7 games left with divisional foes. I'm not giving up on them. I think they can do it and if they win 8 in a row, I would not be surprised. It's time to focus on playing the game and not focus on making mistakes.

I am the eternal optimist when it comes to the Eagles. I remember all of the lean years and I will take thus regime over any of the past. I believe in the moves they made in the offseason and now after 5 weeks, it's time to gel together.

Week 5

Last week I went 2-2, bringing my record to 9-7, told you I am correct 52% of the time! Before I get into this week's peek, I want to take a look at the first quarter of the NFL Season, so here is the Chaney Report's 1Q report:

The biggest surprise are the Detroit Lions, 4-0, winning games from behind in the 4th quarter. And each week, they gain more and more confidence. Jim Schwartz is doing a tremendous job and so far is the CR's 1Q coach of the year.

The biggest disappointment are the Philadelphia Eagles. I Know the season is young, but man do they look out of sorts. Losing 3 games in a row with 4th Quarter leads. That is an attribute to no running game, which is an attribute to no offensive line and no cohesive units. Andy Reid better right this ship or he will be looking for a job.

Indianapolis really misses Peyton Manning.

Washington can't go on like this the whole season, can they?

Hey Denver, Kyle Orton is the better QB, but you knew you weren't going to sign him long term, now he'll walk after the season and you will get nothing. This is why you stink and just put Tebow in, nothing to lose at this point.

Happy for the Bills early success, but I Still think they finish around .500, but they will be in every game this year.

Surprised Tony Sparano still is employed, guess owner can't admit he was wrong, so he will keep him around the rest of the season. Change in Miami is inevitable.

San Diego is good, but is that because they are in a lousy division?

Cleveland is not surprising me, but Cincinnati is.

Green Bay will finish with 12-13 wins and lose in their first playoff game, that's just how it works.

Donovan McNabb is playing himself out of the Hall of Fame. Stand up and take this personally, Donovan. Not so long ago, you were once a top 5 Quarterback, now you are a bottom 5.

Pittsburgh is getting old at once.

49ers will win 11 games this season, St. Louis will win 4, Seattle 5, Arizona 6.

Power Rankings after week 4:
1. Green Bay Packers
2. Detroit Lions
3. Baltimore Ravens
4. New England Patriots
5. New Orleans Saints
6. Houston Texans
7. Washington Redskins
8. Tennessee Titans
9. New York Giants
10. San Francisco 49ers
11. Tampa Bay Buccs
12. San Diego Chargers

Pittsburgh (-8.5) against Tennessee
The Titans made me a believer. The Steelers got old at once. Even playing in Pittsburgh, The Titans will keep it close.
Steelers 17-Titans 14

Houston (-6.5) against Oakland
Even with Andre Johnson out, I think the Texans will throw all over the place. I expect a good game, but the Raiders fall short.
Texans 24 - Raiders 14

Detroit (-5.5) against Chicago
The Lions are for real. Calvin Johnson is a beast. As long ad they remain healthy, the Lions are hard to stop. The Bears are better than I thought, but still not quite as good to win this one
Lions 34 - Bears 27

Upset special
Green Bay (-5.5) @ Atlanta
Falcons get revenge from last playoffs. Matt Ryan goes crazy and throws For 400+ yards
Falcons 41 - Packers 33

Week 4

It's going to be a short post this week, but I will make up for later this weekend.
Last week, I went 2-2, my total record after 3 weeks is 7-5.

Minnesota (-1.5) @ Kansas City.
The battle of the 0-3. I honestly thought Minnesota would be much better. I thought Donovan McNabb would show the Eagles and Redskins, they made a huge mistake. Well, McNabb may not make it through the rest of the season and his Hall of Fame hopes will go by the waste side. Bottom line, Adrian Peterson is the best player on the field and I see the Vikings coming out victorious.
Vikings 28 - Chiefs 13

Philadelphia (-6.5) against San Francisco.
The Eagles will blow the 49ers.
Eagles 44 - 49ers 21

Baltimore (-3.5) against NY Jets
Ravens 24 - Jets 20

Upset Special
Dallas (-3.5) against Detroit
Lions are for real
Lions 28 - Cowboys 20.

NFL Week 3

So here we are, week 3 of the NFL season and things are starting to fall into place. The Lions are pretty good and the Chiefs are pretty bad. The Chargers have a lot of work to do to compete with New England in January. Ryan Fitzpatrick is exactly the kind of leader the Bills need and this is why they are 2-0 so far.

My biggest surprise is Washington. I honestly didn't think they would be playing as well as they are. Granted, they really haven't been tested, but 2 wins is still 2 wins. I still don't like Mike Shanahan, I don't think Rex Grossman is a second tier quarterback. I don't see Washington winning more than 8 games this season, but after 2 weeks, they are truly surprising me.

Here is my Power Rankings Top 10:
1. New England
2. Green Bay
3. Houston Texans
4. New York Jets
5. New Orleans Saints
6. Baltimore Ravens
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Detroit Lions
9. Washington Redskins
10. San Diego Chargers

If the Dolphins do not beat the Browns in Cleveland this weekend, I predict huge changes, namely, the first coaching casualty.

Last week, I went 3-1, to make my 2 week total 5-3. So here are this weeks picks:

Cincinnati -3.5 against San Francisco.
Alex Smith suffered a concussion in last week's Cowboy game. Andy Daulton has been brilliant this season so far and I think him and AJ Green will be huge at home against San Fran.
Bengals 28 - 49ers 17

New Orleans -3.5 against Houston.
I really like Houston this season, as much as everyone else does apparently. I think they have a great mix on the offensive side of the ball and their defense is much improved. New Orleans is one of these machine teams, that can just put up numbers. I expect a pretty high scoring game on the turf in the Superdome, but I see New Orleans winning on their last possession.
Saints 38 - Texans 31

Pittsburgh -10.5 @ Indianapolis
Pittsburgh woke up from that kick in the butt week 1 and Indy isn't that good without Peyton Manning. After this season, Manning will get some MVP votes just because of his value to this team. Steelers will be playing with a chip on their shoulder and after this game, Manning gets IRed and Painter will find his way behind center in the next few weeks.
Steelers 34 - Colts 19

Upset Special
NY Jets -3.5 @ Oakland
The Raiders are pretty good this season and played valiantly against the Bills last week. Probably should have won that game, but playing a 1pm game on the road, it doesn't surprise me. I see the Raiders coming out this week and pounding the ball down the Jets throats. I also see the Raiders Defense all over Mark Sanchez and confusing him to the point, he might be benched for the end of the game.
Raiders 37 - Jets 21

Week 2

Now that the NFL season is here and things are going to start to fall in place this week, you will pretty much get an idea who are the best 15 teams and who are the worse. Teams like the Redskins, might start off 2-0, but I just don't see them making the playoffs. Indianapolis is in a lot of trouble, If they start off 0-2, I see a lot of changes taking place for the rest of the season. If they go 1-3 or 0-4, they will definitely IR Peyton Manning and call this season a wash.

Anyway, last week I went 2-2, just under my usual percentage of getting games right, 52%. Here are my week 2 picks.

Indianapolis +2 against Cleveland. I honestly thought the Browns would be the surprise team in the AFC this year. New coach, but good young QB, Solid Running game, decent passing game, up and coming O Line, Good Defense. The Browns made me look stupid last week. I picked them to beat the Bengals in a Survivor Pool. Let's face it, Rookie QB playing a divisional rival on the road in opener? What were the odds the Browns would stink up the joint. The Browns showed their color and it matches their name. The Colts looked completely out of sync against Houston and that was definitely to be expected, but this week Kerry Collins had an opportunity to see the film and they will come up with a plan. If they were playing any other team, I would think the Colts would be 0-2, but being Home Dogs against the Browns, I gotta pick Indy.
Colts 24 - Browns 17

Pittsburgh -14.5 against Seattle. The Steelers looked awful in the second half last week against the Ravens. I am a firm believer in teams can get old very fast, I just didn't think the Steelers are that team and I still don't. I think they needed a kick in the butt and the Ravens gave it to them. I see Big Ben at home with a chip on his shoulder and Mike Tomlin motivating them for a huge homecoming. Seattle is just one of those teams that is average at best in a bad division. I am not a huge Tavarous Jackson fan and I see them coming east to get pounded and head home 0-2
Steelers 38 - Seahawks 13

Miami -2.5 against Houston
I am riding Houston until they loss. The Dolphins score might have been somewhat close last week against the Pats, but the game wasn't that close. It seemed like they were getting toyed with. Chad Henne had a nice game, but I expect a lot worse this week. Reggie Bush wants to step up as an every down back, I am not sure if he has it in him. Houston is a machine and with Aerian Foster probably playing this week, I see a pretty big offensive outburst.
Texans 31 - Dolphins 21

Upset Special
San Francisco -3.5 against Dallas
This isn't much of an upset, but Dallas played well for 3 quarters against the Jets, but Jason Garrett called a lousy 4th quarter. He won't make the same mistake this week. Alex Smith is a decent Quarterback, but I think the Dallas Defense will contain him and Frank Gore.
Cowboys 23 - 49ers 10

NBA's Impasse

Coming off one of the most successful, talked about seasons in recent memory, the National Basketball Association rewards it's fans with a lockout. Unlike the NFL's work stoppage where the two sides were trying to figure out how to split $9.2 Billions, The NBA's lockout is trying to figure out how to make 75% of it's league viable and profitable.

Can't say I blame anyone but David Stern and the NBA. Instead of marketing the game of basketball and the 30 franchises, DS has been marketing the stars of the NBA. So why would anyone in Sacramento want to pay to see Philadelphia? They wouldn't and don't. The NBA has a handful of stars and they are all on the same teams, making those few teams must see. The Networks put those superstar laden teams on every night, thus who cares about those 20 or so other teams?

Basketball is global, so there are options for every NBA player to go and play elsewhere during this lockout. In the long run, it will probably help the NBA because more worldwide fans will recognize these players. But in the short time, the lockout will benefit the NHL, College Hoops and families everywhere who want to spend some quality time together, not watching the NBA.

I offer some solutions on how to improve the game, ultimately, I think this would help the future of the NBA, but one thing at a time.
1. Focus on the developmental league. There should be a 40 team league, two 20 team conferences with four 5 team divisions. Each NBA franchise has their own development team where their draft picks and free agents can learn how to play the game. They hire former players as coaches and they play in cities close to their franchise. If a highschooler wants to play in the NBA, let him get drafted and if he is not good enough to make the big team his rookie year, let him learn the ropes in the minors. It's been going on in Baseball and Hockey for Years!
2. Hard Salary Cap
3. Revenue Sharing from big market teams to small market teams
4. Bring new crop of referees, who will call a consistent game, no more special calls for superstars, a travel is a travel, 3 seconds is 3 seconds.
5. Teams will be marketed, not only individual
6. Mentoring system to keep these guys out of trouble

I know David Stern would never read the Chaney Report, but I think he would learn from this blog what would make his league better!

A look at the weekend that was

What an amazing weekend of sports. Michigan stunning Notre Dame on a last second TD and really putting ND behind the 8 ball. Samantha Stusser stunning Serena Williams to capture her first Grand Slam title at the US Open. Novack Djokavich beating Raffy Nadal to win his third Grand Slam title of the year! And of course all of the 911 tributes made throughout the country.

With NHL training camps starting up this week, I will get into the NHL later this week and I will definitely touch upon the NBA's labor dispute. But today is about Baseball and The NFL. MLB's season is winding down and it's pretty obvious who the playoff teams will be - Phillies will clinch a spot today, The Braves, Brewers and Diamondbacks shortly after. Yankees, Tigers are shoo ins. The Rangers are ahead of the Angels by 3 games, but the Red Sox are fading fast and they are only 2 games ahead of the Rays and they are playing a 4 game series this weekend. Stranger things have happened? Albert Pujols hit his 35th Homerun, love him or hate him, he is simply amazing. The Cardinals will make him the richest player in baseball this offseason. Finally, I have a feeling the White Sox will be in for some serious changes come this off season, maybe coach? Maybe GM? Who knows exactly what, but it will be something.

The NFL really put on display some amazing things this past weekend. Here are my thoughts: The Texans are that good and the Colts will be that Bad. I think The Colts should have put put in Lance Painter to see what the kid has. We know Kerry Collins is an above average Quarterback, but he will only get them so far, let's see what the kids has.

The Chiefs are in trouble as are the Broncos. The West will be won by San Diego by default, as long as they can stay healthy. Speaking of staying healthy, The St. Louis Rams are in trouble. Without Steven Jackson and Danny Amendola for some time, they will need someone to step up and hopefully Sam Bradford's injury will be minor.

The Best of the past week - Baltimore Ravens. When was the last time a team manhandled the Pittsburgh Steelers? The Ravens impressed me so much, their team came together and showed they are ready for the next step.

The Worst of this past week - KC Chiefs. It's gonna be a looong season for the men in red

Player of the week - Cam Newton. Wow, he played like this wasn't the first game of his career.

My power rankings:
1. Baltimore Ravens
2. Green Bay Packers
3. New England Patriots
4. Houston Texans
5. Philadelphia Eagles
6. San Diego Chargers
7. New Orleans Saints
8. Washington Redskins
9. Chicago Bears
10.New York Jets

Kickoff 2012

Before I give you my weekly picks, I just have to mention the KHL tragedy and the death of one of my all time favorite hockey players, Brad McCrimmon. When I first got into hockey back in 1984, it was an immediate love affair. I remember my father taking me to my first Flyers game at the Spectrum and I got to see Bobby Clarke score in OT. The Flyers were building a Stanley Cup championship team and their defensive anchors, Mark Howe and Brad McCrimmon. Still to this day, they were one of the best defensive pairings I've ever seen. And learning of the tragic death of McCrimmon, just got me reminiscing of those Flyer teams. My condolences to his family and friends and here's hoping every hockey fan of the 80's & 90's will take a minute and remember one of the best Defensemen of that generation.

Now onto my picks.
Green Bay -4.5 against the Saints
I know everyone is so high on the Packers this season, they won with all of the injuries. But last year, they flew under the radar and that won't happen this year. Every game, teams will be ready for them and want to make a showing. Week 1 is no different. The Saints dealt with this last season and lost in the playoffs to a sub 500 team. The Saints retooled and are ready to light up the league.
Saints

Cleveland -4.5 against Cincinnati
The Browns should come out firing. Colt McCoy and Peyton Hillis will lead the Browns to victory.
Browns

Houston -2.5 against Indianapolis
No Peyton Manning, on the road against an up and coming team where the head coach knows it's win or get fired. Andre Johnson is a beast and I expect a huge year from him. The much improved defense of the Texans will confuse Kerry Collins and stifle the running game. Whether Arien Foster plays or not, it's Matt Schaub's team and I think he will finish in the top 3 for league MVP. This is a statement game and I see the Texans making a huge statement.
Texans

Washington +3.5 against the NY Giants.
My Upset Special this week. Sorry Giant fans, Eli Manning can't do it alone and I am convinced Tom Coughlin will cost his team 3 games this year, this will be the first. I am not high on the Redskins at all, but I think they will run all over the Giants and leave them winded.
Redskins

I hope to pick 4-5 games a week and let's see how I do. Remember, I am usually 52% correct! Enjoy Kick off Weekend

Are you ready for some Football?

We are about a day away from the 2011 NFL Season. And although most have forgotten about the lock out, I for one have not. I am still pissed about the Billionaires and Millionaires fighting over how to split over $9 Billion. Really?!? Really?!? Now that things are settled, there better be some good football and by good football, I mean The Eagles winning the Super Bowl.

Unlike every talking head in the sports world, I am not going to say this team will do this and that player will do that, because no one really knows. If they did, they will be able to see the future and would have warned us about the Economic Meltdown in our Country. Instead, I made my picks based on observation, trends and most importantly, common sense. And yes, I went week by week, game by game to predict each winner that I thought to come up with my predictions.

This is just a guess, so don't go to Vegas based on my picks and don't get mad if I am not right. I am right only 52% of the time. So here are my picks with a little synopsis on how I got them.

AFC West. This division is pretty weak. Last Season, San Diego started off slow and unlike seasons before, they couldn't get out of their early season slump. Mostly due to the Kansas City Chiefs ride of success. This season, things will seem more like 2009. The Chargers run away with the division. Phil Rivers will be league MVP, he will put up Brady-esque like numbers. 2nd year RB, Ryan Matthews will have a breakout season and San Diego Defense with a new Defensive Coordinator will put together a strong campaign. The rest of the division is muddled and unfortunately for the Chiefs, they will also come back to earth this year.

San Diego - 12-4
Oakland - 7-9
Kansas City - 5-11
Denver 3-11

AFC North will be a lot more competitive. No the Bengals will still suck, but they made some nice moves in the offseason/draft that will help them in the future. But the future is a year or two off. Cleveland will make a move to become a solid contender, although I think they are a year off as well. Baltimore is making a run now. With the acquisitions of Lee Evans, Andre Gourode and Steve McKinney, they got older and for their sake more experienced. The Steelers will have a bit of a weaker team this year, O Line is not as good and the Defense is a year older. But, Big Ben is entering the prime of his career and He has a lot of weapons around him.

Pittsburgh - 11-5
Baltimore - 10-6
Cleveland - 8-8
Cincinnati - 2-14

AFC South is confusing. Last season, I thought they would be the most competitive division. This season, I think they will be really bad. With the News Peyton Manning is likely to miss some time, the question remains, how much time and can they win without him? Also, if and when he comes back, what kind of shape will he be in? The latest injury might have been caused by him pushing a little too hard to rehab his neck. Tennessee is a mess, Chris Johnson is good, but how good? $30 Million guaranteed good? Does Matt Hasselbeck have some in the tank? Will Kenny Britt stay out of trouble? And someone explain to me the Jacksonville Jaguars? A week before opening weekend, you cut your starting Quarterback? What a jerk move. If you knew you were going to cut him, which I think they knew early on in the preseason, why didn't you cut him to give him a chance to find another job during the preseason? Seriously? I hope Jack Del Rio has his resume updated, because I don't see him being back next season. Finally, the Houston Texans. This has to be their year? Right? Isn't it the rule of probability?

Houston - 12-4
Indianapolis - 9-7
Jacksonville - 7-9
Tennessee - 5-11

AFC East will be the most fun division to watch. Thank you Rex Ryan. But I still think he is all sizzle and no substance. They are put together ton win regular season games, but what about the playoffs? Mark Sanchez is a cool customer, I am starting to like him, Santonio Holmes is a great receiver, I am starting to like him too. The Patriots seem to be the class of the AFC, at least with Bill Belichik, that's how its perceived. The Dolphins biggest problem was they needed a quarterback, especially because the coach and gm's job is relying on it. They didn't get one. The Bills are upcoming, but I have this strange feeling, by the time they get their, they will be the LA Bills.

New England - 12-4
NY Jets - 10-6
Miami - 8-8
Buffalo - 7-9

Now the NFC. The NFC west is improved from last season, but that's not saying much. The Cardinals have a QB, but I don't think he will be as good as they do, at least he hasn't showed me he can win. St Louis is much improved and they are ready to take the next step back to the playoffs. The 49ers are a mystery, they could run the table or get run. And finally, the Seahawks didn't do enough to improve their division winning team from last season.

Arizona - 9-7
St. Louis - 7-9
San Francisco - 6-10
Seattle - 4-12

The NFC North is very interesting this year. Everyone loves Green Bay, I don't. I think last season was a fluke. Everyone's darling this season is Detroit, they are still a year off. I really like Minnesota. Donovan McNabb has a lot to prove this season and he still has the talent to do so. AP in a contract year, I expect big things. If Percy Harvin stays healthy, All-Pro Season.

Minnesota - 12-4
Green Bay - 9-7
Detroit - 8-8
Chicago - 7-9

The NFC South has 3 legitimate contenders and a team a few players away from being a fourth. New Orleans is good, really good. Solid defense, great offense, good special teams. Losing Reggie Bush should hurt them, but gaining Mark Ingram and Darren Sprowls, will make Bush a thing of the past. Atlanta is making run now, Julio Jones is a stud and Tony Gonzalez's career is winding down. Atlanta was good last season, just not built to win in the playoffs, not sure if they are this year. Tampa Bay didn't do much in the off season. Josh Freeman will get better, but he might have a slight drop off this season. And that's how I sum up the Bucs, they will get better, just not this season. Teams will be prepared for them. Once upon a time, the Panthers were good. Good O-Line, Good Defense, Good receivers and backs. Than Jake Delhomme forgot who he played for and made a habit of throwing the ball to the other team. That killed the franchise from a psychological perspective and they still haven't gotten over it yet. Cam Newton will help, but he is a project. Teams will figure out real fast how to defend him. There will be a lot of pressure on the running back.

New Orleans - 10-6
Atlanta - 10-6
Tampa Bay - 8-8
Carolina - 3-13

Finally the NFC East. Yes the Dream Team's division. Only the talking heads can build a team up and knock them down 3 fold even before a regular season game. But Andy Reid knows talent, he knows how to use the system to his advantage. He may not be the best X's and O's guy, but he is good enough to win it all. Dallas is the polar opposite. Jerry Jones is their personal guy and how well has that worked out in the last decade? For all the talent they have, Jerry Jones doesn't know how to use them. I think the Jason Garrett experiment will end badly. It will ultimately cost Tony Romo and the Cowboys will have to rebuild. The Giants keep winning despite their coach. He won a Superbowl and that's still a mystery to me. Eli Manning is one of the best QBs in the league, but every year, they seem to take away from his offense, can he do it with what he has? The Redskins are going to be so bad, they might actually win a few games from teams taking them lightly. Rex Grossman is their QB, enough said. Mike Shanahan hasn't showed me anything since taking over the Redskins except he has an ego.

Philadelphia - 12-4
Dallas 10-6
NY Giants 8-8
Washington 4-12

Super Bowl Philadelphia over San Diego
League MVP - Phil Rivers
Coach of the Year - Gary Kubiak

Coaching Causalities - Tony Sparano week 5

I will be back tomorrow with my week 1 picks

Another BcS Season

We are about 4 days away from the 2011 College Football Season Kickoff and Everyone is excited, well everyone but me. Don't get me wrong, I love College Football, even though the games seem to go on for hours, have no flow and at the end of regulation, if the score is tied, we go to a shootout, errr, I mean a really bad overtime.

I truly love the Rivalries of College Football, Ohio State/Michigan; USC?UCLA; Florida/Georgia; Texas/Oklahoma, etc. And I love how they play throughout the season, I know in mid September Florida will play Tennessee and in October, The Red River Shootout, it keeps the season going.

I think College Football needs an overhaul. The BcS needs to be destroyed and a playoff system needs to be brought in. I hate Preseason rankings, what are they based on? I hate the fact a coach can leave for another job, yet an athlete will have to sit out a year before he can transfer/play.

Finally, There is a lot of corruption in College Sports - Ohio State, USC and at The U. I have a hard time blaming the athletes, even though they need to show some kind of accountability, I have no problem blaming the coaches. They know whats going on with their teams and if they don't, they are really stupid or just plain ignorant. It's time to give these kids stipends, pay them for their service. If it's ok to put a kid on a video game box or sell his number jersey, its ok to pay him.

The NCAA needs to be the solution and not the problem. If they are going to sell their marketing rights, television rights and advertising rights, they need to take that money and give a percentage of it to the kids who are earning it. I don't think this will totally clean up College Sports, but its a start.

I am looking forward to a great season, but I am not looking forward listening to the BcS crap that will follow. I am tired of teams playing cupcakes before their conference schedules kick in, but non BcS schools get criticized for not playing tougher schedules, yet the BcS schools won't play these schools. If one analysts rips Boise State's Schedule, it shows their ignorance to the problem.

Well, I will be back with my college picks soon.

Welcome

I'd just like to introduce the Chaney Report to you. The Chaney report is a look at sports and sport related topics. I am passionate about 3 things in live and sports is one of them. I hope to debate, inform and most importantly, entertain. I hope to live up to my own expectations and keep this up as best I can. As of now, I will just write whats on my mind, but I am hoping in the not so near future I will have more of a schedule regarding what I blog about and when I do it.

Just a little bit about me, I am a Philly guy living in South Florida. So basically, you take the Most passionate sports fans and put them in the most sterile (sports) environment and that is me. I truly love football and slowly am forgiving the NFL and NFLPA for their ridiculous lockout and waste of 120+ days. College football, on the other hand, I am having a harder time forgiving. Seriously, with all that money and brain power, you can't come up with something better than the BCS?

I also really love the NHL. I am definitely in the minority, but the game is in infectious, you just have to give it a chance. My first love as a kid was baseball and that's a big feat, considering the Phillies in the mid 80's to 90's were my team, anyone remember Steve Jeltz or Ricky Jordan?

I have a love/hate relationship with basketball. I love college hoops and hate the NBA. More on that in future blogs.

Finally, I love to mock dumb athletes. They deserve to be mocked and ridiculed and do not deserve the $Millions$ they get paid.

I hope you enjoy this blog and thank you for your time.
- Mike