Pre-Season Baseball Rankings

I know what your thinking but hear me out. There is a reason for this madness and I will explain. Looking at the remainder of this years free agent pool, i dont see one name that could impact a team in any kind of way. Exept maybe Aaron Rowland, but for the sake of this blog, I have him remaining with the Phillies (and why not, he is an amazing talent). Other than a few trades in the works, this is my pre-season rank (more to come).

1. Boston Red Sox- Well, Get used to it. I dont even think a major injury could sway them. If Manny goes down, they have top talent to fill in. This team is BEYOND talented. Kid Genius is that, a genius. He knew not to touch his minor league talent unless necessary (Refer to Josh Beckett). They have the best rotation 1-4 and if they land Santana, make it 1-5. They have loads of talent in their batting order and on the bench. YES, Youk could be a platoon guy. This guy can start on just about any other team.

2. Detroit Tigers- Thanks to Florida for putting the Tigers in the top 2. Prior to the trade, they looked good. Miggy makes them BETTER. They lost 6 of their top 22 prospects but when your in a city that is known for losing, tomorrow matters not. Jim Leyland knows how to manage ego's and did a hell of a job last season. This team has a great lineup top to bottom but they lack in depth. If Sheff goes down who will step in?? I dont see any backups, other than Brandon Inge, and he wants out of Detroit. To the pitching, they are good!! Willis makes them, ehhhh the same but if he gives up 5 runs a game, his offense will put up 6. He is an innings eater and this takes pressure off of Verlander and Bonderman, who usually pitch more innings than they can handle. That and Rogers is back. They are solid in the pen and have a crafty vet in Jones to close out games.

3. New York Yankees- I know, I HATE HATE HATE this but you have to give them some credit. They managed to keep all of their talent and not lose prospects. Sure they failed to pull the trigger during the Winter meetings, but they have Joba, Hughes, and Kennedy to show for it.

4. LA Dodgers- GOD D*MN this pains me but they tapped AndUw Jones. This makes that good outfield that much better. Kemp, Pierre, Either, and Jones rounds up a talented OF corp. Their question mark is can they stay healthy. Their pitching is top 5 in baseball and as long as they stay healthy, they will stay that way. They need to fill that 5 hole though. Wolfe will be missed.

5. LA Angels- I know what your thinking, 5??? Yes, and ill tell you why. I honestly believe that Hunter will have a bad season and Vlad will still be forced to carry the weight of this offense. Pitching is key but can they stay healthy?? That, and can they stay consistent. Krod and Shield were downright crap in September.

6. Chicago Cubs- Laugh all you want but this is a new season. Soriano's injury was more than they could handle in July but they still have the tools to win. They are iffy in the rotation but they managed to win games. The problem is in the pen and the closer role. Wood will help plug that hole if he can stay healthy.

7. Cleveland Indians- The fact they havent made any noise this winter is disturbing. True, they have talent and depth to back that talent up. But they are predictable and play in the Central. They barely contained Detroit last year and its doubtful they can do it again. Pitching is questionable. Carmona and Sabathia is really all they have. Byrd will face suspension for doping, and the pen and closer role is awful. But that offense will win games. Hafner and Sizemore still make one hell of a 1-2 punch.

8. Colorado Rockies- Why do I have them 8? Because like most teams, they havent done anything to improve! They squeaked into the playoffs and yes, dominated. But can they do it again with the same team?? I say unlikely. But they have Coors park and FINALLY a rotation that can pitch like an allstar in Denver. The WS proved they need experience to compliment Matt Holliday.

9. San Diego Padres- I just made some Padre fans happy with this one. They addressed needs early on. Maddox is signed and Peavy has his extension. Bradley is gone as well. They have talent in the lineup and a good pitching staff. Im confident that Youngs injury REALLY hurt this team. But if he can stay healthy, they could give LA problems.

10. Minnesota Twins- With the loss of Hunter and the replacement of Young I think this team will be playoff bound. Again, I never thought much of Hunter BUT Young is the real deal. 162 games played, .290 average and close to 100 runs scored! They also picked up Brandon Harris from TB. This team has talent. But without Santana and Garza things will be tough. But do I have to remind you who is back in 2008?? Mr. Francisco Liriano himself.

11. Philadelphia Philly’s- Why do I have them here you ask? Well, they decided not to show up in the playoffs and have done virtually nothing to improve their team. Sure Lidge is a good add at closer but can he be reliable? Only time will tell.

12. New York Mets- I dont know why I have them THIS high. They have no starting pitching and no bullpen. Pedro is broken down and Glavine is gone. They lost LoDuca and replaced him with a bunch of Nats. Time must be tough when you taking the Nats mediocre players.

13. Arizona Diamondbacks- They are a bit lower than I normally would put them but they traded a productive OF for a 1b man they had then lost then got back and wont even use. Johnson is an old man now. They cannot rely on Webb to win 20 this year. He has talent, but not that much.

14. Milwaukee Brewers- Expect them to move up quickly, and the only reason they are middle of the pack is that they lost 2 key pitchers, Linebrink and Cordero. Gagne seems to have lost his stuff so I dont put much stock into him saving the pen. A pen that looks awful right now. They have decent starters but its that young offense that will carry the load. WOW are they talented, but beatable.

15. Seattle Mariners- I would put them further down the totem pole here but King Felix is finally healthy, Ichiro got paid, and Beltre had a fantastic September. Those three reasons are why they crack the top 15. Other than that, they are mediocre at best.

16. Tampa Bay Rays- Im gonna shock the world with this pick. They traded for a pitcher who will compliment Kazmir and Shields in Matt Garza, but the best of all, they dumped their trouble makers which makes for no distractions. Madden knows how to manage raw talent. They only won 66 games, but that still gave them their best season ever. Look for this team to make some noise.

17. Atlanta Braves- Im wondering why I am doing them this big of a favor. Ok, you drop Jones and replace him with Willie Harris, you drop Pete Orr and replace him with a question mark. They havent really done anything to upgrade, other than Tom Glavine. So why top 20?? They ALWAYS find a way to shock the world. They win, plain and simple.

18. Toronto Bluejays- They dont have much in the tank other than Hollady. Thomas is old, they have no closer, and other than Rios, who can get on base? But, Burnett is healthy and could carry some of the load with Roy. The other starters arent great but they are scrappy. Give them 6-7 innings and pray to the baseball Gods that the pen can keep it close.

19. Oakland A's- Another shocker I know and this MUST make Shane happy. Top 20 isnt a bad place to be. Why 19?? Man-genius Billy Beane, thats why. There is a method for his madness. I dont know what it is but he did in fact write the book on it. Even with the Dan Haren rumors flying, he makes things work.

20. Chicago Whitesox- Please, its bad enough when your team quits on the city of Chicago, its even worse when the manager does the same. I saw more fight into him spatting with Jay Marrioti of the Tribune than opposing pitchers. PS- Dropping Podsednik was a moron move. However, they have a great rotation and pen. The O is aging a tad tho.

21. St Louis Cardinals- Tony is in rehab which doesnt help this teams focus and Walt Jockey isnt there to make offseason noise. What do they have other than Phat Albert? Rolen is unhappy, Carpenter missed a year, they have no bullpen. BUT as liquored up at Tony is, he knows how to win. That and im putting alot of faith into Albert and Duncan. Not a shabby duo

22. Houston Astros- AKA Shanes new team- Come to think of it, I wish i could put them down further into the top 15. But they have no closer and question marks all over the place. Will Kaz fill in for Biggio?? Can Pence repeat his amazing rookie year?? Will Berkman show up?? To soon to tell, but they have Oswalt, not a bad opening day win at least.

23. Washington Nationals- There I did it!! They still have Zim and Kearns, now add LoDuca. A proven Nats killer playing in Nat town. Not to shabby. Church is gone but this only gives Nook Logan a shot for 100SB. Unlikely to happen but without him in the lineup, they suffered. This team still has no pitching, but Acta got the best out of the rooks, such as Chico and Hanrahan. Plus a new stadium you GOTTA be pumped.

24. Cincinnati Reds- They proved that they can pitch, now they need to show the world they can hit. Dunn K's 200 times per year and thats bad. But Brandon Phillips showed Cinci what Joe Morgan must have looked like in the 70's. I dont see much happening here, but they are in the central and anybody’s division to win

25. San Francisco Giants- I know, I betrayed my own team. But even a baseball novice can see we are screwed. We have 1 guy who is a proven hitter, 1 Guy!! We will be starting alot of rookies (shocking they are old grandpa's of the past). Our saving grace is our starting pitching. Cain, Lincecom, Zito, and Lowry make up one HELL of a front 4. Jonathan Sanchez, Kevin Correjia (sp) and or Pat Litsch may take the 5 spot. Still impressive. We have major question marks in the pen and the closer role

26. Texas Rangers- I gave them 26 because they have more offense than the remaining 4. They have no starting pitchers worth bragging about but they do have a reliable bullpen and several closers they can count on. There are alot of high hopes riding on Jarod Salt's jersey

27. Baltimore Orioles- Erik Bedard saved you from last place here. And yes, without Bedard the Marlins are a better team. Tejada isnt getting any younger and I hear he will be traded. You dont have anyone worth mentioning in your farm system as well. My stone cold pick- Orioles season is over RIGHT NOW!

28. Kansas City Royals- I will give this team 2-3 more years til they are playoff bound. That nice crop of rookies are getting better. But the iffy mark is pitching. The Royals have NONE. Granted Gil Meche was a Yankee killer. Im still wondering why you signed Jose Guillen though.

29. Pittsburgh Pirates- You have Gorzellany and thats it for pitching. And he is only as good as the offense, which is still putrid. Bay is healthy so many he can do what he does best and hit .300 with 35 homeruns. If he gets back to his allstar form, I will personally apologize to all the Pirate fans I know for placing them here.

30. Florida Marlins- You traded your franchise away, for that you are last place. HOWEVER, your building for the future. But that means nothing when you treat your players like recylcalable cans and completely alienate your fan base.

I know thats alot to write, but I head on vacation soon. Might as well get it all done now. Enjoy and let the debates begin........

America East Scores

America East Scores

Nov.9 - Boston U. 64...St. Bonaventure 58
Nov.9 - George Mason 62...Vermont 74
Nov.9 - Villanova 89...Stony Brook 56
Nov.9 - Hartford 68...St.Francis (NY) 59
Nov.10 - BC 76...UNH 56
Nov.10 - Albany 63...Bucknell 70
Nov.10 - UMBC 74...St. Peter's 58
Nov.11 - Virginia 67...Vermont 68
Nov.11 - Hartford 71...Quinnipiac 64

Season Record: 0-0

Various NFL Predictions and Draft Notes

It's been a boring week at work and it has more or less numbed the brain to the point of I really didn't realize it was Friday until about thirty minutes ago. Of course, I'm here alone today since my co-worker decided to take the day off. Of course he has a legit excuse, he went and saw Van Halen last night and I know I would be in no shape to be at work either.

With that said today's NFL section came about because of yesterday. I ran through all the remaining games, predicted the winners and losers, and this was all to help next week's mock draft order. I figure I might as well give you a tiny peak inside what my final record predictions are, along with the playoff and Super Bowl predictions, why not.

We shall go worst to first, how's that? These predictions will NOT please my Niner fans

Miami Dolphins 0-16
Atlanta Falcons 1-15
New York Jets 2-14
San Francisco 49ers 3-13
Houston Texans 3-13
Chicago Bears 4-12
St Louis Rams 4-12
Baltimore Ravens 5-11
Buffalo Bills 5-11
Oakland Raiders 6-10
Arizona Cardinals 6-10
Minnesota Vikings 6-10
Carolina Panthers 7-9
Seattle Seahawks 7-9 NFC West Champions....I know...sad
Philadelphia Eagles 8-8
Cincinnati Bengals 8-8
Kansas City Chiefs 8-8
Denver Broncos 9-7
Jacksonville Jaguars 9-7
Washington Redskins 9-7
New York Giants 9-7
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 10-6 6th Seed Wild Card
Tennessee Titans 11-5 6th Seed Wild Card
Detroit Lions 11-5 5th Seed Wild Card
Cleveland Browns 12-4 5th Seed Wild Card (thank you easy schedule)
San Diego Chargers 12-4 AFC West Champions
New Orleans Saints 12-4 NFC South Champions
Dallas Cowboys 12-4 NFC East Champions
Pittsburgh Steelers 13-3 AFC North Champions
Indianapolis Colts 13-3 AFC South Champions
Green Bay Packers 14-2 NFC North Champions
New England Patriots 16-0 AFC East Champions

Playoffs
Saints over Buccs
Chargers over Titans
Steelers over Browns
Lions over Seahawks
Packers over Lions
Saints over Cowboys
Patriots over Steelers
Colts over Chargers
Packers over Saints
Patriots over Colts

Super Bowl
Patriots over Packers in overtime

One Third NFL Predictions

The following is my updated prediction for how the NFL season is going to end. I will be going from worst to first and discussing what they need draft wise to get them moving in the right direction.

1. Miami Dolphins 0-16-I honestly believe that the Dolphins can do the impossible, the dream season, and I get a crazy tingly feeling thinking that the 72 Dolphins have to watch their team go winless, see if they celebrate that. As for helping this team, where to start? Due to their offensive first round picks in recent years I'm gonna have to go with either the local kid Caliass Campbell from Miami or Glenn Dorsey from LSU.

2. St Louis Rams 1-15-The Rams are hurting this year because their offensive line has the talent of a junior college right now. Orlando Pace very well may be retiring at the end of the year, and if not, he's definitely not getting any younger. Marc Bulger can't go another season where he is the human pinball machine. There are two or three GREAT tackles in this draft and my advice would be to look right there at Jake Long of Michigan or Sam Baker of USC.

3. Atlanta Falcons 2-14-Bobby Petrino's wishes come true, neither of the top two teams have taken a quarterback and that leaves him free to take Brian Brohm of Louisville. If you think he'll pull a Butch Davis tell me that after he has a season like the one he is about to experience. I honestly don't think they are even considering anything else at this point, it's Brian Brohm or bust for Bobby Petrino and the Falcons.

4. New Orleans Saints 3-13-The Saints aren't the same team as last year, but perhaps they are too young to have these many expectations thrust upon you. If Glenn Dorsey is still here they'll take him as LSU players taken by the Saints are usually beloved in that city and it goes to help keep the fans on their side, especially since Glenn Dorsey is one of the most loved Tigers in recent memory for staying all four years at LSU. If Miami has already snatched him up I expect them to take which ever tackle is still standing out of Long and Baker.

5. New York Jets 3-13-Quarterback is not something they need, I would hesitate to take any running back at this spot too. I could see Mangini trading with the Cowboys to pick up their two picks at the end of round one, but it case that does not happen let us explore the idea of Kenny Phillips, Safety, out of Miami.

6. Minnesota Vikings 3-13-Jackson and Holcomb are not the answer in the land of a thousand lakes and they SHOULD be looking intensely at a Quarterback. Leading this pack will likely be Andre Woodson of Kentucky or Matt Ryan of Boston College. Also don't be surprised if they take a hard look at DeSean Jackson of Cal as well to be some kind of play maker.

7. Denver Broncos 4-12-There is a definite drop off this season, and it may be due to the loss they experienced in the off season. Champ Bailey is still the best corner in the NFL, but they need someone opposite so look for them to take the number one corner available like Antoine Cason of Arizona or Malcom Jenkins of Ohio State.

8. Kansas City Chiefs 4-12-Without a doubt their pick here should be taking the best offensive lineman available to the them at this point in the draft. I could even see them trading up to make a move for Long or Baker. Gosder Cherilus of Boston College might be a choice or Ryan Clady of Boston College, though both are available later so either trade up to get Long or Baker or trade down to get Cherilus or Clady.

9. Baltimore Ravens 6-10-Another team that needs offensive line help, but will wait as they have had success in later rounds in finding diamonds in the rough. I don't believe they will take a quarterback after the disaster that is Kyle Boller. They definitely miss Adelius Thomas so look to find his successor, or perhaps even Ray Lewis' successor. Keith Rivers of USC and James Laurinitas of Ohio St would likely be the players looked at here.

10. Buffalo Bills 6-10-They seem to be just a few steps away from actually competing again, hats off to Marv Levey for knowing FOOTBALL players. They may even have found their quarterback of the future in Trent Edwards so I think they'll go after players that continue to make that defense threatening. Chris Long of Virginia would be ideal in Buffalo due to his lineage and Dan Connor of Penn St to put him with his former teammate.

11. Carolina Panthers 7-9-Jake Delhomme isn't getting any younger, David Carr apparently isn't the star quarterback everyone thought he could be so we can all smell brand new QB can't we. This team very well could be 9-7 but then the NFC South is the dribbling shits this year. Which every quarterback that is still left should be taken, either Ryan or Woodson.

12. Philadelphia Eagles 7-9-I know this prediction will piss off a few of the commentators on here, but you're the walking wounded who isn't exactly a young kid anymore. Since Westbrook hasn't been able to stay healthy pretty much his entire career this is the place you see the Eagles take Darren McFadden of Arkansas, which is a crime that he lasted this long.

13. Chicago Bears 7-9-Odd, both NFC Championship game teams are in the bottom 15 this year, then again the Bears stuck with a Florida Gator quarterback so what can you expect? They hit a home run with Tommie Harris from Oklahoma so I think they're gonna go back to that state to take a wide receiver. Look for Malcolm Kelly of Oklahoma or Adarius Bowman of Oklahoma St.

14. Seattle Seahawks 8-8-This team isn't getting any younger, especially at the running back position. They easily could go for a wide receiver but the smart move would to find your replacement for Shawn Alexander sooner rather then later and with Ray Rice of Rutgers still on the board you have to take the chance on the kid. Then again they could get crazy and go Steve Slaton of West Virginia as well.

15. Houston Texans 8-8-Well, they are at least moving in the right direction. They begun to build their defensive line during the last two first rounds, now I think they need to get a few more play makers in their secondary, especially since they play the Colts twice a year. Reggie Smith of Oklahoma would be a nice selection especially due to location, and maybe another Big 12 kid, Aqib Talib of Kansas.

16. Cincinnati Bengals 8-8-I know I give them more wins then most other predictions, but I have faith that Carson Palmer alone can win seven games on his ability alone. Marvin Lewis desperately wants to upgrade this defense which gave up 50 to the Cleveland Browns and is filled apparently with felons. Lawrence Jackson a defensive end from USC is still on the board as is Sedrick Ellis, a defensive tackle also from USC.

17. San Diego Chargers 8-8-Sadly you cannot draft coaches in the draft so either you fire Norv Turner or sleep in the bed you made Whale's Vagina. I don't see many holes on this team, but we have to give Phillip Rivers more targets so wide receivers should be the first thing on your mind. Early Doucet of LSU is still available, and whichever the two Oklahoma located wide receivers are still on the board.

18. San Francisco 49ers 8-8-This pick is actually the Patriots so look for the Patriots merely to take the best player on the board, at this point either one of the two defensive lineman I listed for the Bengals. The Niners in the second round should focus on their offensive line or the best Wide Receiver available to them to give them some weapons and protection.

19.Detroit Lions 9-7-There is definite improvement in the Motor City right now, though they play great against their division and weak teams only. The NFC East has easten the Lions alive and Rod Marinelli needs defensive lineman in the worst way. Frank Okam, defensive tackle from Texas and Quentin Groves a defensive end from Auburn are still available. Sorry Lions fans, no wide receivers for you this year.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars 9-7-This is an interesting situation as they don't have any glaring needs but are definitely missing that last piece that makes them into a championship contender. There are no more offensive linemen worth taking this high, so I'm gonna go defense and I'm thinking Derrick Harvey, a defensive end from Florida or Andre Fluellen, DT, Florida St.

21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 8-8-You ready for this? The Tampa Bay Buccaneers make the playoffs winning the NFC South with an 8-8 record. Yes, the NFC South is THAT bad that a 500 team could win it. Now, as for the Buccs, they aren't getting much younger and we know Gruden is satisfied with veteran quarterbacks to lead his team. I could see him going with someone like Tyson Jackson a defensive end from LSU or Rey Maualuga, a middle linebacker from USC.

22. New York Giants 9-7-Welcome to your first wild card team of the NFC, the sixth place team. Again, a team that is a few pieces away from putting it all together, and is difficult to predict in this spot. Offensive line could be gotten later, but taking Jeremy Perry, a guard from Oregon State would not be crazy talk. I also think they could take a seriously look also at Vince Hall, a middle linebacker from Virginia Tech as well as they definitely need a young force in the middle.

23. Arizona Cardinals 9-7-Kurt Warner somehow, someway, leads this team to the NFC West title putting them up against the New York Giants in the first round of the playoffs which would make for an interesting game to say the least. I think here Wisenhunt wants more offensive linemen to protect his quarterback and open holes so look at Kirk Barton, a tackle from Ohio State to be mentioned. They could go defense as well so Xavier Adibi, an outside linebacker from Virginia Tech is also worth talking about.

24. Oakland Raiders 9-7-Is this madness, perhaps, but look at each game they have played. Only the Lions game was a blowout, they very well could be 3-1 right now. Their defense has been the real deal the last year and this one and now the offense is showing signs of life. Oh, and these are your AFC West Champions, just in case you missed that. Warren Sapp isn't getting any younger so you have to look defensive tackle like Red Bryant of Texas A&M and B.J. Raji of Boston College.

25. Washington Redskins 9-7-Your second NFC Wild Card team that gets the luxury of playing the Tampa Bay Buccs which means in Joe Gibbs' last year he'll at least make the second round of the playoffs. With all their offensive line injuries I would think they may look that way, then again they may wait. I honestly think they'll look towards their line backer corps which needs probably one more part to be dominate. So if one of the VA Tech linebackers were available they'd be a shoe in, but also maybe Brian Cushing of USC if he comes out early.

26. Tennessee Titans 9-7-Congrats to Vince Young you have played yourself into the Wild Card slot by making fewer mistakes then the teams you play against. Oh, and the fact you have a pretty damn good defense going for you as well. I think what the Titans need is some offensive weapons for Vince Young to throw to, and nothing says that better then familiarity. So Limas Sweed, wide receiver Texas is an option or maybe even Mario Urrutia of Louisville who may have the best size of any receiver in the draft.

27. Cleveland Browns 10-6-I know, this is a Pats pick and you all think I'm being a homer but look at this for a second. We played the best so far of any team against the Patriots. We have Miami, Jets, Buffalo, Rams, Niners, Bengals and Ravens again on our schedule. With Houston, Pittsburg, Seahawks and Cards as well. Look at that list and tell me they can't go 10-6. As for their draft, our first pick needs to be a defensive tackle who can stop the run. As for the Cowboys, I honestly believe they would trade both picks up to get McFadden. Oh, and the Browns are your second wild card team, likely playing the Raiders in a revenge game the first round.

28. Green Bay Packers 12-4-Brett Farve must be shopping at the same liquor store as Kurt Warner because all of a sudden he looks like 1997 Farve again. That defense is being damn impressive and I think will stifle the Redskins' offense on Sunday. Actually, if I'm the packers I swap picks with someone high up so that I can reunite Laurenitas with AJ Hawk and make it even more formidable.

29. Indianapolis Colts 13-3-It's almost shocking that even with all of their injuries that they will still finish the season with 13 wins. This is a credit to the job Tom Mooore and Tony Dungy do there. As for the draft, they need to restock with a corner so I'm looking at Dwight Lowery of San Jose State and DeJuan Tribble of Boston College.

30. Pittsburgh Steelers 13-3-A damn fine job of coaching by the first year coach Mike Tomlin so far and I don't expect it to stop. Hell, if history tells us anything, he will go to at least two Super Bowls in his time in Pittsburgh and win at least one. They're far enough down the line where they can look at any help they need so I'm gonna assume that it is on the offensive and defensive lines. They may lose Alan Faneca in the off season so for guards at this point try Will Arnold of LSU and Adam Kraus of Michigan.

31. Dallas Cowboys 14-2-Obviously your top NFC team and it just shows what Wade Phillips can do with a team when they already have talent on the roster. I don't see anyone keeping them out of the Super Bowl, though not winning it. If they don't use their two picks to trade up, I can see them going for a wide receiver or defensive lineman. Bruce Davis, defensive end out of UCLA is still out there and so is Mario Manningham, the wide receiver from Michigan.

32. New England Patriots 15-1-They are on a personal mission to prove that they can win, that camera-gate had nothing to do with their victories. Donte Stallworth last week showed what everyone has been waiting for him to show since he came into the league. Their line backing and safety corps are not exactly young so I'm gonna wager they look to those areas namely Jolonn Dunbar, a middle linebacker from Boston College (they love local kids) and Tom Zbikowski the safety from Notre Dame.

NFL Preview & Predictions: NFC

It appears that I am the sole man today here at LSWTF, so we continue on from yesterday's discussion of the AFC and the battle for the playoffs there and head on over to the NFC where half the conference is the utter shits. It's gonna be a sad day when three teams at 500 are fighting to get into the playoffs. Tomorrow's coverage will be my playoff predictions and draft order for 2008.

NFC EAST
1. Philadelphia Eagles. Predicted Record 10-6
The Eagles are now on the second tier of the NFC, which shows us that they are in their twilight of NFC dominance. Well, at least dominance of being the Buffalo Bills of the NFC Championship Game. Well, maybe not the bills, perhaps the Braves. Donovan is getting older and looks to be slowing down with injuries and will likely have another one this year. If that happens, the Eagles will fall farther down, no Jeff Garcia this year.

2. Dallas Cowboys. Predicted Record 9-7
This really could be a coin flip between these two teams, but Eagles have a lighter schedule in my opinion and as such here are your Cowboys, America's crack wagon. There shouldn't be too much of a difference between this year and last year save for the fact Romo won't be a surprise this year. If he can get working with TO, it could be a surprise for many.

3. Washington Redskins. Predicted Record 8-8
Congrats Skins, this is an improvement over the last few years, but sadly it is only 500. Though in the NFC an 8-8 record could very well qualify you for the playoffs, so you can look forward to that. You put Joe Gibbs in the playoffs and anything can happen, so the best you can hope for is the rest of the NFC being so piss poor you squeak in.

4. New York Giants. Predicted Record 5-11
Ouch, a tough year for Lesser Manning and the New York football Giants. They are getting older, though they at least are attempting to find people to replace veterans, unlike the Eagles. The running back situation is in question, but then so is Eli. Their secondary can best be referred to as a wet napkin and Coughlin needs to resign, a decent coach just not a championship coach.

NFC NORTH
1. Chicago Bears. Predicted Record 14-2
Some may wonder why the predicted Bears record is so high, well there is a simple answer for that question, they play in the Norris. The Lions, Packers and Vikings are all the lower half of the NFC and the Bears have six games against them and should win them all. The rest of their schedule is also fairly light, by my opinion, and as such their defense should handle the majority of teams they play this year. Another year where the Bears' defense wins them games and the offense just tries not to fuck things up.

2. Detroit Lions. Predicted Record 5-11
I know your collective hearts skipped a beat when you saw that I put the Lions in second place. Yes, they are in second place, but still well below five hundred. Though I suppose that is one thing Detroit fans can put their hats on. I think they can have a bright future, they're beginning to put pieces into the puzzle. Sadly they still have no long term QB solution, and coaches keep getting arrested. Things COULD be on their way up, and I do like their new head coach so we'll see where this goes.

3. Minnesota Vikings. Predicted Record 5-11
Yes, I put the Lions above them; probably just to fuck with some Detroit fans and give them something to smile about. I'm sorry Minnesota, but the only thing you can win it appears is Sex Boat Cruise awards. Not sold on Childress, but when your offense is going to run solely on Peterson Power, there are issues. The defense is getting better, but still about two or three pieces away from being on the upper level. Of course there is also the injury thing, if they can't stay healthy they don't have a prayer.

4. Green Bay Packers. Predicted Record 4-12
I guess we can sum up this team into two names, Brett Farve and AJ Hawk. These may be the sole bright spots on this team, even with Farve getting EXTREMELY long in the tooth. Yes, he's going to lose the Packers some games, but those four wins may be because of him as well. They need to play Aaron Rodgers to see if he is a good quarterback or just collecting welfare in Green Bay since apparently he has no real job. Best plan would be to draft Laurinitis and team him with Hawk for the best linebacker combo in the NFL.

NFC SOUTH
1. New Orleans Saints. Predicted Record 12-4
Let me be clear, the Saints are the San Diego Chargers of the NFC. They have all the pieces it would appear to be the best team in the Conference, but still have not made the Super Bowl. Of course their pieces only came together last year so we'll see what the second year under Brees, Bush and Payton bring about, which I have a feeling will be a Super Bowl berth and maybe even a win. I'm just glad that I was always right about Drew Brees.

2. Carolina Panthers. Predicted Record 8-8
Another difficult year for John Fox and the Panthers. I love John Fox as a coach, I love the pieces of this team. Just looking at it this team every year should be in contention for the super bowl. There are two problems though that ALWAYS keeps this team out of contention. Running Back health and Jake Delhomme. This record may be much lower if they don't replace Delhomme with David Carr before mid-season. Then again Delhomme may once again pull something from his ass. Regardless Carr should thrive in this offense, it has an actually offensive line for crying out loud.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Predicted Record 5-12
The Buccs have the ability this year to be 5-12 or 12-5, it all depends on what happens with this amalgam of talent they have. They sign Trotter to help out D Brooks, but let Simeon Rice go away and haven't really replaced him with anything substantial. Jeff Garcia will help alleviate the Cover Zero defense against Cadillac Williams, but there still is only one receive for Garcia to throw to, if he has time to throw since their offensive line looks like the Giants' secondary. My biggest prediction for this team is that Jon Gruden may be fired before the season is even finished. Doug Williams, possibly new head coach, perhaps.

4. Atlanta Falcons. Predicted Record 3-13
A HUGE fall, many expect, but my reasoning is not just the loss of Vick and the starting of Joey. The running game should alleviate some of the pressure on Joey, something he NEVER had in Detroit. The defense is still well enough that this team SHOULD be in every game. If they are, then this team will be much better then 3-13. If Joey proves he can be a quarterback everyone expected, they can contend for the playoffs. I just don't know if they are mentally in the place to win with everything that has happened this off season. Plus they begin this year with a college head coach, which hasn't worked in a decade plus. So expect their first pick next year to be Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville.

NFC WEST
1. Arizona Cardinals. Predicted Record 9-7
Yes, this will be the year that the Cards FINALLY go back to the playoffs. The biggest reason for this will be Matt Leinart putting this team on his back and carrying them the entire season. I love the selection of Wisenhunt and Grimm as their coaches, which is something the Steelers will miss badly. These guys know how to coach winners consistently. They may very well end the Cardinals being the laughing stock of the NFL this side of Detroit. Leinart has the offensive tools to play the score more then you scheme, since their defense has about one star player, Adrian Wilson.

2. San Francisco 49ers. Predicted Record 8-8
I absolutely love the job Mike Nolan has done with this franchise. I'm not completely sold on Alex Smith being a championship quarterback, but I am sold on him soon becoming one of those quarterbacks who is always in the playoffs. A Dan Marino or Warren Moon who will put up good numbers, but doesn't have that killer in him to be a champion. The rest of this team is coming along nicely as well and they should be in every game they play in. If they have a fantastic draft in 2008 and patch any holes they have, expect this team to be a contender next season. I would say they're a offensive and defensive lineman away from being playoff bound every year.

3. St Louis Rams. Predicted Record 6-10
Another case of getting long in the tooth and the injury bug that is always biting them. Sure they have one of the top five best running backs in the game, but what is around him seems to be dwindling. The O-Line is getting older, as are the wide receivers. Bulger is then always looking out for that next injury to occur. Their defense is average, it doesn't get me excited at all, which is never a good sign. This usually means that they will keep them in some games, but lose others and never win one for them.

4. Seattle Seahawks. Predicted Record 5-11
The ultimate example of a team getting WAY too old. The offense might turn to dust at any moment and Hasselback still doesn't have anyone to throw to. I don't expect Alexander to stay healthy in any form this year so what are they going to score with? Maurice Morris? Bobby Engram catching passes from Seneca Wallace? The defense is still fairly strong, but aging in half of its areas. If they have a better record then 5-11 it will be because of their defense and nothing else. Then again they're coached by Mike Holmgreen, who is getting to that age where he needs to retire cause the game has passed him on. Though I should be nicer to this team since I coached the Punter in high school and he's a great kid.

NFL Preview & Predictions: AFC

This is the opening week for the National Football League and I begin today with my AFC Preview and Predictions. The AFC is feeling pretty good about itself since it has won eight of the last ten Super Bowls, with the NFC's last winner coming in 2003 in the form of the Tampa Bay Buccanears. The NFC looks like the driveling shits right now, as no team has made a solid claim on the conference where as in the AFC you have three legit Super Bowl contenders.

AFC EAST
1. New England Patriots. Predicted Record 14-2
I know there seems to be certain players missing at the beginning of the season, but I do think BB and Brady are doing on last stretch for the Super Bowl before BB retires. With their additions on offense, I don't think the lack of defense will hurt them, it didn't hurt the Colts last year. I expect them to try the St Louis Rams idea of just out scoring their opponents.

2. Buffalo Bills. Predicted Record 6-10
I do believe this team is on the rise. They have had solid drafts the last few years and you will begin to see that emerge this season. They won't be playoff contenders, but they will disrupt other folks' season, namely the New York Jets. Watch JP Losman to have a stellar year with Poz being a possibly Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate.

3. New York Jets. Predicted Record 6-10
Yes, a down year for Mangenius and the Jets. Actually, I think it will be a down year for all New York football teams. The team with the most hope this year will be Rutgers and that will be a sign of the end of times. If Mangenius doesn't put Clemens in before the half way mark, then the record may even be worse.

4. Miami Dolphins. Predicted Record 4-12
I have big expectations out of Cam Cameron, but this is not the year for that. They have an non existent running game, which means they will rely on Trent Green to win games. Yeah, Green's head is spinning so much he thinks he is a Disney tea cup. I don't know who their QB is, but they've had worse luck with QBs then the Browns have.

AFC NORTH
1. Indianapolis Colts. Predicted Record 13-3
Another solid year of Peyton and Dungy, but I think the Patriots and Chargers may just very well have their number this year. We don't have to worry about Peyton's desire, but the rest of the team you might. I think they may have lost too much on defense to where the score more then my opponent strategy.

2. Tennessee Titans. Predicted Record 6-10
They Titans get the dubious honor of coming in second to the Colts this year. Now they MIGHT be 6-10 and they MIGHT be 1-15, it all depends on the play of Vince Young. Being a Longhorn faithful, I have enough faith that he will play well enough (without injury) enough to crawl to a 6-10 record. They also have a solid defense, even without Pacman Jones to keep them close in most games.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars. Predicted Record 5-11
To say I don't like the release of Byron Leftwich would be an understatement. I don't think Jack Del Rio has ever been truly behind Leftwich as his quarterback. They only last year gave him a running back he could rely on, and still doesn't have an receiving threats. They've concentrated their talent on the defensive side and have the best defensive tackle tandem in football, but that doesn't help an anemic offense.

4. Houston Texans. Predicted Record 4-12
What did this team do to help itself get better in the off season? They got rid of Carr for Schaub? That's fine and dandy, but I don't think there is much difference if you still haven't given him people to protect him enough to throw the football. The offensive line is the most important part of the team, if you don't have one your offense can't function. Yes, their defense got better and I understand the Colts play you twice. If you can't score on the Colts though, what hope do you have?

AFC WEST
1. San Diego Chargers. Predicted Record 14-2
San Diego SUPER Chargers. Yes, I have them as the Super team of the AFC this year. Norv built that offense years ago and it hasn't changed since he left, so there is no worry about the most dynamic offense in football falling a step behind. The thing they needed to change was Marty and the playoffs, which he has never been good at. Norv was a part of Champion playoff teams with the Cowboys, he knows what to do and this time he has the talent to do it.

2. Denver Broncos. Predicted Record 9-7
One of my two bubble playoff teams. Everyone seems to be talking about Vince Young and a sophomore slump, but no one talks that way about Jay Cutler, why not? Because there are so many positives on this team? Perhaps, but it doesn't look any different then last year and they didn't impress me then. The player that keeps them in games is Champ Bailey, we'll see if the offense can put points on the board to help the defense.

3. Oakland Raiders. Predicted Record 7-9
My biggest shock of the season to everyone will probably be my Raiders predicted Record. Whether the QB is Daunte or JaMarcus, this team has a defense that is quickly getting close to Ravens quality. That defense will win games for this team that the offense cannot do. They also don't have to deal with Randy Moss on this team, which I believe hurt them. Plus I expect there is a deep desire amongst them to prove that they are able to play better then everyone expects them to.


4. Kansas City Chiefs. Predicted Record 3-13
I'm sure many of you expected this to be flip with the Raiders, with this team with seven wins and the Raiders with three. I'm sorry folks, but for my money I think it is a toss up between the Chiefs and Dolphins over who has the worst team in the NFL this year. Ironically enough, they both involve Trent Green. Huard is a fine quarterback, but he's never been the man since the start of the season. I think Larry Johnson wants out of KC badly and no longer wants to be a part of this team. I don't see a team on the rise, I see a team on the fall. A long, fast fall to hell, express elevator style.

AFC NORTH
1. Baltimore Ravens. Predicted Record 10-6
Let me say this right off, this pains the living hell out of me to put the Ravens in first. I also believe that the AFC North will be the most competitive conference in the NFL this year. I have three out of the four teams in the playoffs, that's damn impressive. Also, there is no domination. I think that each team will beat the other at least once this year. That being said, it probably comes down to the Ravens' defense as to why they are in first place.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers. Predicted Record 10-6
First year coach Mike Tomlin should be ecstatic if he actually ends up 10-6. I don't know if this speaks of his coaching skill or the fact of the Steelers talented team. Big Ben seems to be happier under Tomlin, which could mean less mistakes then last year. The defense was getting long in the tooth, but they were injected with some youth and vitality this year and could be an underdog that no one expects. Though they could end up fourth is the pressure is too much for Tomlin his first year.

3. Cincinnati Bengals. Predicted Record 9-7
A part of me wishes I could place the Bengals higher, I really like Carson Palmer as a quarterback. I love the combo of TJ and Ocho Cinco at the wide receiver spot. They have all the tools there to be a Super Bowl contender, they are missing a few things that aren't talent. No it isn't a better owner then Mike Brown, it's not even pardons for their suspended players. It's players who aren't as comfortable in orange and can act like professionals and not hurt the team with their off the field antics.


4. Cleveland Browns. Predicted Record 6-10
A 6-10 record this year almost puts them in the middle of the crowd of the AFC. You know what that means? That means there is progress for my franchise. It means that we are young and getting better every year, as long as folks stay healthy. Brady Quinn should start no later then the game after the bye week if they want to have a shot at winning. If Wimbley keeps up what he did last year, he will be a pro bowler. I think our secondary and linebackers will shock the world with their play this year. Expect next year to focus on drafting some defensive linemen to make this defense one of the best in the NFL...if it can stay healthy.